As Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, it brought high winds, tornadoes, drenching rain, and flooding, damaging property across the Sunshine State. The loss of life and property were substantial, but damage was not as severe as feared before the storm made landfall.

Among those devastated by Irma were Floridas orange growers, who are already suffering from the malaise of citrus greening, a disease that has reduced production by 70 percent over the last decade. The storm may have destroyed over a third of Floridas oranges this year as winds knocked fruit off branches. Worse yet, winds toppled trees and flooding could kill others, leaving long-lasting scars across the landscape and Floridas billion-dollar citrus industry.

On concerns of crop losses, futures traders took frozen concentrated orange juice to a five-month high, trading over $1.60 per pound.

USDA shows more corn

This years corn crop could be bigger than previously thought. According to the U.S. Department of Agricultures most recent estimate, the corn harvest this year should near 14.2 billion bushels, potentially the third-largest on record.

This news knocked corn near the lowest level of the year Tuesday, with December corn futures trading for $3.46 per bushel.

These low prices are disappointing for producers and investors who had been expecting a rally after this summers heat and dry weather damaged the crop. However, the USDA continues to expect that the crop emerged largely unscathed, projecting a healthy harvest and grain surplus in the coming months.

Oil launches to new high

Crude oil prices are nearing a four-month high as global oil production slides and threats abound.

OPEC nations have largely kept their promises to cut production, and U.S. drillers have begun to show signs of slowing down production, both of which are helping to reduce supplies, which dropped globally for the first time in four months.

Meanwhile, North Korea launched another missile on Friday morning, keeping the U.S. and its allies on edge. The threat of war or disruption of trading routes in Asia has been buoying commodities prices, especially oil, which traded last week to $50.50 per barrel.
TWIN FALLS  If youre thinking of changing jobs, now is a good time to start looking.

South-central Idahos seasonally adjusted unemployment dropped to 2.3 percent in August, according to preliminary estimates. And despite a steady decline in job postings, the region continues to experience a job-seekers market.

Kick some tires and make sure you are where you want to be, Idaho Department of Labor Regional Economist Jan Roeser suggested.

And make sure you look at the benefits a future employer might offer.

Having that power to negotiate allows you to walk in with a little more confidence, she said.

But it can be a bit frustrating for employers. Jerome City Administrator Mike Williams said that back in April, the city finally managed to hire a staff engineer after a lengthy search. It look a lot of convincing to recruit the new hire, who came from Las Vegas, he said.

And that was while Jerome Countys unemployment was still hovering around 3 percent. With a 2.2 percent unemployment rate in August, it probably wouldnt be any easier to hire for that position now.

Its been a struggle for everyone to get people, find people and retain people, Williams said.

But one highlight the county has seen: year-over-year, its workforce has grown by 240 people. Thats more than double the number of workers Twin Falls County gained  about 90.

I think its probably just incremental, organic growth in our industries, Williams said.

The labor department reported Friday that Idahos statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment is at its lowest level in 10 years, 2.9 percent. And in south-central Idaho, Roeser said, its the lowest it has ever been as a region.

Were going to see it go down again because of harvest, she projected.

Roeser noted, however, that the region has generally become less seasonal in its hiring and layoffs over the past five years.

While counties individually have reported rates this low before, its unusual to see it for months at a time, she said. And in Mini-Cassia, unemployment wasnt this low even pre-Recession.

South-central Idahos total labor force is higher than a year ago, at just above 98,000. But it isnt as high as it had been earlier this year, when the regions labor force topped 99,000 people.

Statewide, Idahos labor force jumped 3,151 people. Its non-farm jobs have grown by 2,400 over the past month, with a net gain of 15,200 over the year. Construction grew the fastest of all jobs, at 4.5 percent.

Job growth was 2.7 percent in Twin Falls and Jerome counties from July 2016 to July 2017  the latest monthly job data available at the county level  Roeser said.

If you want a job, Williams said, youre in the drivers seat.
Weight loss support

TOPS Club (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), a nonprofit weight-loss support group, will meet weekly at several locations.

The Twin Falls chapter will meet at 4:30 p.m. Monday at the Twin Falls Senior Center, 530 Shoshone St. W., 208-734-2641 or 208-734-5300.

Other local chapters will meet at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday at 2025 S. Highway 81 in Malta, 208-645-2438; 9:15 a.m. Thursday at the Jerome Public Library, 100 First Ave. E., 208-324-6693; 9:30 a.m. Thursday at 410 E. Third St. in Rupert, 208-436-6037 or 208-679-3518; and at 5:30 p.m. Friday at 1800 J St. in Heyburn, 208-678-8706 or 208-678-2622.

Seniors wellness

The Twin Falls Senior Center will hold a presentation for senior citizens at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday at 530 Shoshone St. W.

Connie Campbell of Syringa Place will talk about important vitamins and minerals for seniors.

Free; 208-734-5084.

Yoga

Morning Bliss Yoga, 9 a.m. Tuesday and Saturday at the Magic Valley YMCA, 1751 Elizabeth Blvd. Stretch and strengthen your muscles through yoga.

Free to the community. Information: ymcatf.com or 208-733-4384.

C-sections

Caesarean childbirth class, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in the Oak Rooms 2-4 on the lower level of St. Lukes Magic Valley Medical Center, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

Topics: Caesarean delivery procedures, pain management, and non-conforming labors.

Free; pre-registration is required, 208-814-0402.

Yoga

Prenatal Yoga classes, 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at Center for Physical Rehabilitation, 754 N. College Road, Suite D, Twin Falls.

All levels are welcome to join and exercise safely. Sami Ashenbrener, doctor of physical therapy at Center for Physical Rehabilitation, is also a certified yoga instructor with specialized training in prenatal yoga.

Equipment is available, or bring your own equipment if desired. First class is free.

Alzheimers support

Alzheimers Association, Greater Idaho Chapters Caregiver Support Group meeting, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Twin Falls Senior Center, 530 Shoshone St. W.

The group meets on the third Wednesday every month.

Information: Pattie Dennis, 208-734-4264 or 208-539-4290.

Childbirth

St. Lukes Magic Valley Medical Centers prepared childbirth classes, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 20 through Oct. 18, in Oak Rooms 2-4 on the lower level of St. Lukes, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

Topics: Wellness during pregnancy; labor and delivery process with relaxation and breathing techniques; caesarean birth; postpartum care for mother and newborn; infant CPR; car seat and home safety; and a tour of the maternal and child units. Bring a labor-support person if possible.

Cost is $25 for a five-week session. Pre-registration is required: 208-814-0402.

Asthma education

Free asthma education class for patients and caregivers to assess and manage asthma will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday.

The class is presented by St. Lukes Magic Valley and meets on the third Thursday of each month.

Pre-registration is required. To register and for location of the class: 208-814-8765.

Recovery support

Safe Harbor will hold Recovery group meetings at 7 p.m. Thursdays at 213 Fifth Ave. W. in Twin Falls. A donation meal begins at 6 p.m.

Information: 208-735-8787.

Anxiety support

Anxiety Support Group, 6 p.m. every Thursday at Magic Valley Fellowship Hall, 801 Second Ave. N., Twin Falls.

Support for those who experience anxiety, panic attacks or depression. Learn about the signs, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and coping skills.

Information: Cathy Shaddy, 208-410-2768.

CPR, first aid

St. Lukes Magic Valley Education Department is offering a Heartsaver Pediatric CPR, First Aid and AED class, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Learning Center, 840 Meadows Suite 2, Twin Falls.

The course provides training for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid and using an automated external defibrillator.

Cost is $60. Pre-registration is required, 208-814-9050.

Rides for treatment

The American Cancer Societys Road to Recovery program provides free transportation to and from treatments for people with cancer who do not have a ride or are unable to drive. There are several volunteer drivers in the Mini-Cassia area who donate their time and the use of their car so patients can go to their treatments.

To schedule a ride to treatments, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 to be matched with a volunteer driver.

Meditation

Mindfulness and Meditation course will be offered by CSI Community Education Center, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 26 to Nov. 14, in the CSI gym, room 236.

Learn how to incorporate mindfulness meditation into a wellness routine and also strengthen your mind, increase the ability to focus, and manage emotions. Bring a yoga mat. Instructor Robin Lopez, a licensed clinical social worker, has a private practice and also works as a mental health therapist.

Cost is $99. Register: csi.edu/communityed, at the Community Education Center, or 208-732-6442.
Back when I was covering police and courts for Nampa-Caldwell newspapers, we liked to call itin honor of a former county sheriffthe Dale Haile Jail. Technically, it was the Dale Haile Detention Center, which it still is.

What it also was then, and still is, is too small.

At least, for the demands being placed on it.

On Thursday, according to the online jail roster, it held 431 inmates, just short of the 477 beds it has. (Weekends tend to be busier.) The situation actually is more complicated because, as one staffer told a reporter, I cant put a female in with a male. I cant put a sex offender in with a murderer. Youve got to be able to separate all these people out. And there are people who might have been put in jail if there was a place to put them.

And theres a lot of traffic in and out. The site noted that, In 2011, Courts and Transport Deputies drove 65,000 miles in transport vehicles, screened over 400,000 individuals entering the two Canyon County courthouses and escorted nearly 11,000 inmates to court appearances from the detention center.

Overall, one review after another for many years has maintained that more jail space and overall capability is needed. The Canyon County commissioners recently ordered another review from the DLR Group, a large national building design firm, and it found that Canyon needs a jail able to handle at least 1,000 inmatesdouble the capacity it currently has.

And thats just to get the county through the next decade.

The pressure is considerable, because building this thing would cost a lot of money (the county hasnt released an exact number, but it will be big). The countys voters have, three times in a row, turned down bond proposals for jail construction.

This is worth pondering even if you dont live in Canyon County because the jail problems it faces are not so radically different from those faced by many other counties.

Ada County, for example, has space for about 1,200 inmates. Since its population is a little more than double Canyons (which has capacity for 477), that sounds about right  except that Canyon is really needing capacity for more than 1,000. Which means Ada County probably should be looking at capacity for 2,500 or so.

Yes, this is expensive.

And there are only so many alternatives.

One might be cheap housing, down to and including tentsa popular idea in some quarters. But aside from temporary and limited use, it wont work in solving the larger-scale issues of security and safety.

You could simply decide to quit jailing people when the beds are full. That may mean jailing low-risk minor offenders and letting the violent and dangerous go free.

Or, you could suck it up and raise taxes to pay for new jail buildings and staff. It would solve the problem of what to do with the inmates, though it wouldnt make taxpayers happy (as in Canyon at least it hasnt).

Or, we might try reconsidering what we choose to jail people for, and maybe try to find other ways of dealing with some of the offenders.

Just a thought.
Qatar is to purchase from the UK 24 British Typhoon fighter jets, under a statement of intent signed Sunday between the Qatari Minister of Defense Khalid bin Mohammed al-Attiyah and his British counterpart Michael Fallon. The delivery date has not been announced.

Fallon hailed the agreement as heralding a deeper cooperation between the two countries. This will be the first major defense contract with Qatar, one of the UKs strategic partners, Fallon said.

This is an important moment in our defense relationship and the basis for even closer defense cooperation between our two countries.

London is also one of Saudi Arabias arm and military equipment suppliers.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain plus Egypt have severed ties with Qatar cutting off air, sea and ground links. The Quartet accuses Qatar of supporting terrorism.

They have denied allegations that they considered military action against Qatar, which has rejected the accusation and tossed conditions for the normalization of ties.

Last June, at the onset of the Gulf crisis, Qatar signed an arms deal with the US defense department to buy F-15 jets, to the tune of $12 billion.
@ByKristenMClark

The impacts and recovery efforts that followed Hurricane Irma have presented fresh fodder for political debate between the two main candidates who are seeking voters support in a bitter battle that will be decided next week for an open state Senate seat in Miami-Dade County.

On WPLG Local 10 News This Week in South Florida on Sunday, Republican state Rep. Jose Felix Diaz and Democrat Annette Taddeo sparred about the lessons learned from the storm.

They also used the 10-minute televised debate to trade attacks over which of them caters more to special interest groups and industries that came to the forefront during and after the hurricane, such as utilities and nursing home care.

What we have learned is that industry has a great impact at the [Public Service Commission], at the Legislature. They have killed certain legislation so it could have prevented the lives that we lost at the nursing home, Taddeo said on the Sunday morning show, referencing the eight elderly people who died last week in a Broward County facility that lacked air conditioning after the hurricane.

Whether it was the elder care industry or utilities, like Florida Power & Light, Taddeo said: We need to make sure we have representatives that represent us  not the special interests. And thats not what we have right now; we have had this problem in Florida for decades.

Diaz  whos served in the Florida House for seven years  countered that its unfortunate that my opponent would try to paint me off as someone whos beholden to special interests.

The only special interest that matters to me is the people of my community. Nobodys worked harder during and after this storm than me, Diaz said.

Full story here.

Photo credit: Republican state Rep. Jose Felix Diaz, left, and Democrat Annette Taddeo, right, debate during Sundays episode of This Week in South Florida on WPLG Local 10 News in Miami. Diaz and Taddeo are candidates for the open Senate District 40 seat in Miami-Dade County. [WPLG]
A state program that awards bonuses to top-rated teachers based on their own SAT and ACT scores from high school violates federal and state civil rights laws against employment discrimination, argues a potential class-action lawsuit filed this week by Floridas largest teachers union and seven classroom teachers from South Florida.

The Best and Brightest program  first enacted in 2015 and now in its third year  continues to be envisioned by Florida House Republicans as an innovative means to recruit and retain the best teachers in the states public schools.

But its been a subject of ongoing controversy because the program relies on teachers own test scores  sometimes decades old and unavailable  which has no proven correlation to teacher effectiveness.

The Florida Education Association is now asking a federal judge to step in and declare the program illegal and discriminatory against teachers who are older and who are non-white.

The FEA first made the accusation two years ago through a complaint to the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission  an avenue the union said Friday it had to exhaust before it was recently given federal authorization to file a lawsuit.

The SAT/ACT score requirement has an illegal disparate impact on teachers based on their age and on teachers based on their black and Hispanic race, the plaintiffs attorneys, John Davis and Kent Spriggs, argued in the 58-page lawsuit, which was filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Tallahassee. The SAT/ACT score requirement is not required by business necessity and is not related to job performance.

Full story here.

Photo credit: Florida Department of Education [Scott Keeler / Tampa Bay Times]
Everyone's a critic today.

Credit (or blame) Twitter, Facebook, the democracy of the web and sites such as Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, which allow moviegoers to weigh in, just as the professionals do. If you're looking for a crash course in how to watch movies and move beyond "It was terrible (or terrific)," look no further than "Talking Pictures: How to Watch Movies" by Ann Hornaday, chief film critic for the Washington Post.

In 2009, she embarked on a series of articles intended to help readers analyze and evaluate films in the same way she does. "Returning to my roots as a reporter, I interviewed directors, screenwriters, producers, actors, sound technicians, cinematographers and editors about their crafts and about what they wished audiences appreciated more about their work," she recounts in the introduction.

That inspired her to write "Talking Pictures," which gives readers an idea of what makes a movie soar or sink and why you might like a film but not love it. The book is divided logically into chapters devoted to screenplay, acting, production design, cinematography, editing, sound and music, directing and "Was it worth doing?" and she cites excellent examples along with insightful quotes from A-listers.

Each section ends with a list of a half-dozen recommended films. The one on acting, for instance, suggests watching Maria Falconetti in "The Passion of Joan of Arc"; Marlon Brando, "On the Waterfront"; Robert De Niro, "Taxi Driver"; Meryl Streep, "Sophie's Choice"; Chiwetel Ejiofor, "12 Years a Slave"; and Viola Davis, "Fences."

Hornaday, who studied government at Smith College and worked for Ms. Magazine as a researcher and as Gloria Steinem's administrative assistant, learned her craft on the job. She wrote for Premiere magazine and was a freelancer for The New York Times before becoming movie critic at newspapers in Austin, Texas; Baltimore and D.C.

In her nearly 300-page guide, she addresses how quickly a good movie should engage the audience and earn its allegiance  see "The Godfather"  along with why some villains are way too obvious, as with Billy Zane's character in "Titanic," and others creatively complex.

"Karen Crowder, Tilda Swinton's ambitious corporate executive in 2007's 'Michael Clayton,' was anything but a standard-issue baddie."

Director-writer Tony Gilroy imbued her with "ever more complex layers of self-doubt and quivering desperation, rather than the brittle, shark-like amorality we've come to expect from similar big-business villains." He harbors some sympathy for even his most loathsome characters, she observes.

I was thinking of her chapter on sound and music while watching "Dunkirk," a movie destined for some Oscar love. "The best score watches the movie with the viewers, not for them; it's baked into the film, rather than being slathered on top like too much sugar icing." That is a perfect way to describe the Hans Zimmer score for Christopher Nolan's masterpiece.

She tries to pinpoint why the three "Star Wars" prequels paled in comparison to their predecessors  flabby, over-busy second acts  and acknowledges that acting "might be the most deceptively difficult aspect of filmmaking, because its best practitioners make it look very easy." She singles out a Brad Pitt scene in "Babel" and one with Robin Wright in "Nine Lives" for examples of wrenching, well-executed emotion.

No such praise comes for Adam Sandler, raunch-com regular Rose Byrne, the "Lord of the Rings" films or 3-D, unless it's employed in "Hugo," "Gravity" or "Cave of Forgotten Dreams."

And while the author acknowledges she would rather lay asphalt on a 100-degree day than attend Comic-Con, "in the hands of Joss Whedon, Kenneth Branagh, and the brother team of Anthony and Joe Russo, the recent Marvel Comics 'Avengers' movies have become showcases for smart writing, nuanced acting, and timely allegory, even in the midst of cartoonish action."

Documentaries and fact-based dramas, which could merit a separate book, get short shrift and I disagree with her brief assessment of Rob Marshall's musicals as "clumsily filmed (and) overedited."

But Hornaday expertly shares why some films seem magnificent or mediocre, why details matter (a horse's heartbeat in "Secretariat," the electrifying walk through the Copacabana in "GoodFellas," the workaday routine opening "United 93") and why directors with "chops" can seize the day and magical movie moment.
It's Friday at Ear Candy Music, which means it's release day. John Fleming is steadily receiving shipments and checking to make sure his vinyl copies of Beyonce's "Lemonade," out this very day, have arrived.

He's also juggling customers and phone calls. He shoots the breeze with a guy who's picked out $50 worth of records. A 20-something-year-old wants to exchange a record. A 60-something-year-old buys a concert ticket.

One guy asks where he can park and says he's from out of town. Fleming asks if he's here to see the Mac DeMarco show at the Wilma that night. He says no, he's on a road trip. Like a loyal music fan, he looked up record shops along the way.

Another package arrives. Fleming rings up a record for a customer and talks upcoming shows, a constant whirl of movement and conversation.

"I just can't believe we're still here after 20 years," Fleming said. "It blows my mind. I'm pretty thankful. It's good to have loyal customers that help keep the doors open."

***

In 1997, Fleming, then 28 years old, was working at Record Heaven. A friend, John "Tex" Knesek, pitched the idea. Knesek took out a loan, and Fleming sold his car and pulled several hundred records from his personal collection so they could open up shop in the Warehouse Mall on Toole Avenue.

After about a year, Fleming bought Knesek out. In 1998, Chris Henry and Aaron Bolton came on board, because Fleming said he doesn't know anything about electronic music or DJ culture, which back in those days required a large stack of vinyl.

Sadly, Bolton, a talented drummer and DJ who started the Badlander Complex with Henry and other partners, drowned in Seattle in 2012.

Henry oversees the online store, earcandymusic.biz, and has some space at the retail half, while Fleming sticks with the brick and mortar.

Henry said he likes to tell people that "retail is a mirror," that it doesn't have a mysterious power over consumer trends or taste. The fact that Missoula, population 70,000-plus, has Ear Candy and Rockin' Rudy's is "a testament to Missoula as a community." When he travels to music festivals, people are surprised to hear that two stores in a city this size both survived the "great record store cull."

In 1998, Ear Candy moved to the Hip Strip, where it has remained ever since. While the store initially specialized in vinyl, they expanded the CD selection. Then in 2005 to 2007, illegal downloading and sharing began to take its toll.

"There were many times I was considering just saying, 'Pull the plug, get out of here,' " Fleming said.

The interest in vinyl grew over the course of three or four years, to the point where it's now about the majority of Fleming's sales. He's actually running out of room.

The racks are stocked with new and used vinyl. Shrink-wrapped copies of Arcade Fire's latest album, "Everything Now" share space with carefully selected nods to local and regional taste, such as cult Portland band Dead Moon, or bands that are coming through town, like Thee Oh Sees or Sylvan Esso. The "rarities" bin has an LP by former Missoula band the Fireballs of Freedom.

Fleming, who began collecting records when he was in fourth or fifth grade, said they have a tangible feeling compared to a digital download.

"I just like interacting, listening to a whole side, engaging with the record, reading the liner notes, looking at the artwork," he said. Regarding the sound he said there's a "spatial quality to analog."

He notes that if you want, you can get that with a high-end CD player. Notably, his new CD sales have had an uptick recently, which goes against broader industry trends. Plus, some genres seem to have a preference  he says metalheads love CDs.

There's the treasure-hunt aspect to collecting vinyl. "Digging for records is fun," he said. "There's a lot of stuff that's never ever, ever been released on CD and it never will be." As examples, he rattled off the self-titled Kangaroo album, or Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera.

Record collectors, too, are a different breed, he said. "Once your store gets known among the record-collector dudes, the diggers, when people are traveling, they find you."

He likes talking shop, too. He works the front of the store. "You learn stuff. I love it when a customer turns me on to something I've never heard before," he said. Musicians drop by, too. He has a wall with a growing collection of signed records: Ryan Adams, Ariel Pink, Dead Kennedys. He had his fingers crossed that DeMarco would come by.

The concerts draw out-of-town fans, too. He said the tourist traffic is noticeable on nights the Wilma has a show.

***

Henry likes to describe Fleming as a classic Missoula polymath, who got a degree in one thing but ended up working in another field.

The native of Jamestown, North Dakota, came to Missoula for graduate school. He was studying American literature with an emphasis on 20th century playwrights like Sam Shepard and Edward Albee.

"My thesis was 'The Myth of the American Dream and the Castrated Male in Modern American Society,' and lo and behold, 20 years later Trump's happening, and it's like, 'Wow, man. A bunch of pissed-off white males out there,' " he said.

He's also a musician, and has played in a string of great Missoula bands over the years. There was Oblio Joes, a scruffy indie-rock band with an enviable catalog of sharp songs. (They're all online now, by the way.) Then Secret Powers, a power-pop group with sharp harmonies. Then Skin Flowers and now the Sasha Bell Band, led by Bell, a former member of Essex Green  a part of the Elephant 6 collective Neutral Milk Hotel, Apples in Stereo and of Montreal. He's now reunited with Oblios and Secret Powers alums in Protest Kids, which has released a string of EPs online this year.

With its proximity to the University of Montana campus and Hellgate High School, the store has helped cultivate interest in music, particularly lesser-known groups and genres.

Ira Sather-Olson was in junior high when Ear Candy opened at its original location, and began swinging by to pick up electronic CDs and punk records. He worked there during college and for a stint afterward  if he hadn't found a full-time job elsewhere he says he'd still pick up shifts. "They're definitely like family to me," he said.

The curated selection of underground music, particularly back when physical copies and word of mouth meant everything, had a large role in shaping his taste and personality, he said.
Western Montana Mental Health Center (WMMHC) is a community-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment center. We assist more than 15,000 individuals, employ over 750 staff in 16 western Montana communities and operate a budget of over $40 million. Our economic and human impact is far-reaching. Community mental health centers are a well-kept secret, quietly going about our business as we offer the vast array of comprehensive safety-net services that impact the social, health and economics of the communities we serve.

Our mission drives us to provide the safety net functions that communities have begun to take for granted, e.g., mobile crisis teams, crisis stabilization centers, drop-in programs, case management, substance abuse services, jail diversion and programming within jails, just to name a few. It is important that communities realize that much of what they have taken for granted, the very underpinnings of the safety net, is under threat with the impending proposed cuts to the state budget.

It also is a fact that our state mental health system is extremely fractured and disorganized. Besides our comprehensive services, there are numerous other providers who offer one or two services, with no entity clearly responsible. A lack of policy and unclear statutes lead to a lack of quality and fiscal control, not to mention confusion on the part of consumers and communities that need services. If no one is responsible, how do communities go about aligning policy and programs in a way that deliver the outcomes they expect?

While WMMHC understands that our state is experiencing trying fiscal times and we are willing to share in absorbing a portion of the fiscal burden, it is our expectation that our partner, the state of Montana, should want to sit with us, sleeves rolled up, to work together to find solutions. We do not want to be left alone to shoulder the burden of those cuts that will affect one of our most vulnerable populations.

Our foundation as a community-based mental health center has been crumbling for years. A lack of leadership and policy development has left us and the people we serve in an untenable situation. This latest crisis in regards to cuts could decimate services completely. Repealing or eliminating services without a plan is at the worst unethical and dangerous and at a minimum short-sighted and misinformed.

WMMHC is already experiencing unintentional consequences as politics plays out in regard to who is wrong and who is right. Staff is concerned about the proposed changes and wonder what the cuts may mean to them and the individuals they serve. Some are looking for work in more secure fields as we face an already insurmountable workforce shortage. Additionally, WMMHC is continuing to provide addiction recovery services with no contract renewal in place. How many businesses would be expected to engage in this type of relationship?

Treatment located close to home near a natural support system is more humane and less costly. WMMHC has worked hard to develop and finance a range of approaches to serve people at the right time, in the right place. Access to hope and better outcomes while treating people in the least restrictive setting is why we exist. We have invested in training for our exceptional staff to follow best practices. However, transformation takes collaboration, government engagement and persistence. It includes the willingness of government to change policy, funding and actions.

We implore our state to bring stakeholders to the table to develop a vision for behavioral health, to plan policies and services that make more sense financially and for the health of those we serve. We are anxious to get beyond the distrust.
CANNON BALL, N.D.  A year ago, protest camps near North Dakota's Standing Rock Sioux Tribe reservation swelled with thousands of people intent on stopping the Dakota Access pipeline.

Today, the camps are gone and oil is flowing through the pipeline while court battles over pipeline permits continue. But the massive demonstrations that caught the world's attention last year have permanently changed people and politics in the area.

While problems on the reservation remain, tribal leaders say Standing Rock is stronger for what happened last year and that tribal members are engaged and focused on helping build the future.

"There's a sense of liberation, a sense of freedom and a sense of worth. I can actually do something. I'm actually free?" said Standing Rock Chair Dave Archambault.

Cows now graze on the site of the Oceti Sakowin camp where thousands pitched tents and built rudimentary wood structures. There are bits and pieces scattered about. Broken glass, weathered batteries, a bent fork and squash growing where a camp kitchen was set up.

People still return to the site to ponder what happened here.

A recent visit by Minnesota Public Radio News found a big bearded man leaning on a wooden walking stick surveying what was the Rosebud camp, next to the Cannon Ball River.

"Tent used to be right over here," said Dave Lillis, pointing to spot near a line of trees. Lillis, 39, is from Washington state and said he lived in the camp for five months, until the camps were shut down in February.

"It's bittersweet," he said. "I came here last night and was going to camp out. Ended up going up the road and sleeping in the car for a while, because it just didn't feel the same."

Lillis sat at his old campsite for a bit and thought about the experience. "The lessons I learned here: how to listen, how to stay humble, stay in prayer," he said.

"It's a very sacred space, always will be," Lillis added. "I'll always stop here when I get a chance, probably for the rest of my life"

He said he plans to spend time this winter at a Minnesota camp on the White Earth reservation set up to oppose the Enbridge Line 3 pipeline project.

The Standing Rock camps drew thousands of people, including tribal delegations from Africa and South America. It also drew unprecedented public attention to Standing Rock.

"A year and a half ago we were invisible, we were invisible people," said Linda Black Elk, a teacher at Sitting Bull College on the reservation who spent months helping coordinate medical care at the camp.

"We were invisible to people - they didn't want to see us - and we're not invisible anymore," she said. "And I think that we have decided that visibility is a gift. And we are going to use it for the greater good."

One tangible change that has roots in the protest camp is a new free clinic that's currently being developed in Fort Yates, North Dakota, where the Standing Rock tribal government is headquartered.

The need for health care that integrates traditional treatments with western medicine became apparent while the camps were operating, Black Elk said.

"We actually had people who live in the local area who were not even in camp or weren't really even interested in what was going on at camp who would come to camp just to receive health care because, it was free first of all, but also I think it just really touched a part of them that traditional western health care doesn't," she said.

Land is set aside, money is being raised and an architect is working on the clinic design.

Black Elk has a list of medical practitioners, many who volunteered at the camp, who offered to return to staff the clinic for two-week shifts.

It's a challenge to raise the money, said Black Elk, because everyone is exhausted. But donations for the clinic continue to come in.

The time she spent at the camp changed Black Elk in good and bad ways, she says. The trauma of clashes with police left her distrustful and reliving painful experiences.

"One of the things I dream about a lot is this sort of slow motion of me standing there and all of a sudden this massive dog coming at me and coming right up to my face like it was going to bite my face," said Black Elk.

But the movement also made her more outspoken, unwilling to sit by and watch injustice. She now has a nationwide support system.

"I found family in camp and people who are still my family," she added. "People who I have absolutely no doubt that whenever I need them they will be there for me."

The Dakota Access protest has also had positive and negative financial impacts.

The Standing Rock tribe received $11 million in donations. Some went to reimburse communities that sheltered people from the camps during winter storms.

But there are complaints and rumors about the money.

Archambault says the tribe has been transparent about how it used the donations, but that dozens of outside groups and individuals used online fundraising sites to raise money. The tribe has documented at least $40 million, but that money that doesn't go to Standing Rock.

Edward Swifthorse, who lives in Cannon Ball, the reservation community nearest the camps, said he supported the effort to stop the pipeline. But he thinks people took advantage of this small community that opened its doors and helped thousands of people with shelter, showers and food.

"Cannon Ball should have been compensated from the GoFundMe groups to whoever used Cannon Ball's name for profit," said Swifthorse. "Because of the Dakota Access pipeline protest, we that live here have to deal with racism or prejudice more now than before up in Bismarck," North Dakota's capital.

Anger from the tribe's neighbors is also putting the squeeze on the tribal economy, Archambault said.

"The casino is still impacted by this. And our casino is one of our primary economic drivers," said Archambault, who points to talk of a casino boycott by residents of Bismarck.

Business has been slow since the protest camps started. Casino revenues are down two-thirds from two years ago. The tribe has used donations to keep some programs running while they wait for casino income to rebound.

"But it's going to take time and it's going to take healing and it's going to take relationship building again," said Archambault, who knows rebuilding those relationships won't be easy.

North Dakota's governor has reached out to the tribe in an effort to repair relationships, and Archambault is appreciative. He thinks governments have more incentive to get along, but it will be much more difficult to overcome the anger and resentment among individual citizens on both sides.

"If I were to cuss you out and call you bad names and bad words, how easy is it for you to forgive and let that go?" Archambault said. "So, at the individual level, it's not very easy to overcome what has happened."

He's said he's also asked the federal government to turn the land back to the tribe so the protests can be memorialized. "It could be a monument, it could be a site where people can come and pray," said Archambault, who doubts his request will be approved anytime soon.

Archambault is quick to point out what happened a year ago at Standing Rock isn't over. The large camps might be gone but the legal battle over the Dakota Access Pipeline continues in a federal district court in Washington, D.C.

For some, the battle continues on the ground.

About 100 miles south of Cannon Ball, a few refugees from the Standing Rock camps have set up about a dozen tents at the pow wow grounds in the town of Eagle Butte, South Dakota.

They are here with the blessing of the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe.

Sherman Alexander sits in a teepee he brought from the Oceti Sakowin camp. He calls it home. Alexander is from the Cheyenne River reservation. He first went to the Standing Rock camps for free food, but the atmosphere kept him there for months.

"The way people just got along, said 'hi' to each other, 'good morning,' helped each other out. Like when somebody was down, somebody would go over there and pick them up," explained Alexander, who credits living at Oceti Sakowin camp with easing his depression and anxiety.

"It gave me a purpose. I have a purpose in this world again. How often is this opportunity going to come along again where I can say I did something good with my life?"

While he still struggles with mental illness and alcohol abuse, Alexander says he now has people who support and encourage him.

The leader of this small camp is Hoka Luta Win, or Red Badger Woman. She was one of the first people to start questioning the Dakota Access pipeline route.

She admits she thought little about environmental issues before she became aware the pipeline would cross the Missouri river near the Standing Rock reservation. She dropped out of nursing school when the Standing Rock camps started and stayed until the camps were closed in February.

"Our sacrifices up on Standing Rock humbled me," said Hoka Luta Win, who paints herself as a very angry person when the camps began, beaten down by reservation life.

"I learned how to control my anger. The unity, the love and the compassion. The pride of just uniting all of us. Different races, indigenous people from all over the world. It was beautiful," she said.

Hoka Luta Win hopes to return to college and become a registered nurse. But not just yet.

"This isn't going to go away. This is embedded in our hearts," she explained, "It's something we have to do. To save our planet. To save the human race."

This intense commitment to a cause is a common thread among those who lived at the Standing Rock camps.

Joye Braun has seen it over and over. She was one of the first to set up camp near Cannon Ball in the late spring snow. Braun lives in Eagle Butte. She's a community organizer for the Minnesota-based Indigenous Environmental Network.

She's thought a lot about what created such a strong bond among so many who came to Standing Rock. She's concluded the experience filled a spiritual need.

"It's not this hippy dippy thing, and it's not this New Age thing. It's something completely new. It's really releasing that inner warrior, that spiritual warrior," said Braun.

"And it doesn't matter what background you come from or where you're from. We've united as people," she said. "We've recognized that human spirit within each other. Because that human spirit doesn't have a color."
A recent (Sept. 12) opinion in the Missoulian by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines blames "frivolous litigation from radical environmentalists" for "smoke filling Big Sky Country and filling our lungs" from numerous forest fires Montanans have had to endure this past month.

Well, here is what CBS News has to say on this subject: "Fires are ravaging the forests of Russia and Canada, burning at a higher rate in some cases than at any time in the past 10,000 years." And, of course, a lot of Canada's smoke comes our way.

So, are we left to suppose that the "radical environmentalists" Daines, U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte and other Republicans blame for fires in the U.S. have invaded Canada and Russia as well? I'd say the chances are mighty slim.

Hey, guys, do you suppose there is any possible chance these unprecedented fires and smokey conditions could be related to climate change, aka global warming? Any chance at all?

Bob Balhiser,

Helena
Library gallery seeks submissions

The Carle Gallery in the Butte Public Library, 226 W. Broadway St., is seeking submission for Towns and Urbans Sights of Montana, a curated exhibit showing in October 2017.

Artist are encouraged to submit up to three works of any medium for inclusion in the show. Submit a digital copy, either through email or flash drive, along with an application to Shari Curtis. Applications can be found at the Butte-Silver Bow Public Library website, www.buttepubliclibrary.info. Application and image submissions are due by Sept. 22, and fully rendered artwork should be delivered to The Carle by Sept. 29.

Details: Shari Curtis at 406-723-3361 or programming.bsbpl@gmail.com.

Restoration council to meet Thursday

The Butte Natural Resource Damage Restoration Council meets from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, in the Butte-Silver Bow Archives, 17 W. Quartz St.

Discussion include updates of Buttes Groundwater Restoration Plan, Area One Restoration Fund, and Parrot Tailings Removal Project. Public comment and questions will be provided at appropriate points throughout the meeting. Details: 406-533-6882.

Tech professors article to be published

John W. Ray, Ph.D, of Montana Techs Liberal Studies Department, has had an article accepted for publication as a chapter in the forthcoming book "Rhetorics of Evidence."

His article is titled An Analysis and Criticism of Chaim Perelmans Approach to Evidence and Argument as Developed in The New Rhetoric.

The book is being published under the auspices of the University of Heidelberg and the University of Tubingen in Germany.

Ray teaches classes at Tech in political science and communications. He has had several publications and presentations on the ethical nature of rhetorical audiences.
MUSCATINE  A recent study of the housing market in Muscatine looks at ways to offer more housing opportunities for young professionals, single families, first-time homeowners and seniors.

The city hired RDG Planning and Design to conduct the housing study, and Amy Haase, who does community and regional planning for the firm, presented the findings at two meetings Thursday. RDG held stakeholder meetings and distributed a survey to Muscatine residents last spring, receiving 310 responses.

At the first meeting held for business leaders, Community Development Director Dave Gobin said the goal of the study was to identify what Muscatine is lacking, attract more people to live in the city and help find ways to fit renters and future homeowners with the right homes.

By building more homes, Gobin hopes to increase the city's population size.

"There has been primarily no population growth in this community," Gobin said. "Yet, we have all this growth around us and activity."

Gobin said Muscatine's population has stayed around 23,000 for decades. He wants to increase the population to 30,000 by 2030.

Haase said a conservative goal for population growth is .5 percent each year, which would put Muscatine at about 26,000 residents by 2030. To reach that goal, about 60 new housing units would have to be added each year. In 2016, she said 33 new housing units were added.

Another goal the city has is to convince people who work in Muscatine to stay and live here. The study said 61 percent of people employed in Muscatine live elsewhere. Other issues identified in the study included a low number of new housing developments, a higher-than-average cost of rent, plus a shortage of homes for low-income residents.

During the presentation, Haase also focused on housing for seniors. She said empty-nesters and retired residents are often looking to downsize their homes, find something low-maintenance and on the ground level.

"We need a variety of price-points here," she said. "We need some additional affordable units to allow some seniors on fixed-income to get out of the units they're in. And we need nicer, higher-end things for families or empty-nesters saying they want to downsize."

Haase proposes placing seniors and current residents in more adequate homes, replacing homes that are old and in poor condition, while also growing the number of rental units to attract young people to the city. Essentially, she wants people to have more options when they move, as well as help young residents to start on a path to eventual home-ownership.

"We need to increase the supply of affordable lots and increase mobility through additional housing varieties," she said. " We're seeing across the board, people are saying they're not interested in moving up to a bigger unit. They'd rather be in a unit overlooking the river now. We need to find ways to get people to move, and get them selling existing homes."

Haase said there are several ways Muscatine can begin to increase its number of lots, develop more homes and attract more residents to the city. She proposes the city work with nonprofits and other organizations that can rehabilitate properties.

The city, she said, should help developers build on smaller or more affordable lots, that may be hard to sell. Haase also highlighted the importance of community development, saying people will want to live in areas with good streets and nearby parks.

Another task, Haase said, is changing residents' perceptions, about the tax code and Muscatine's amenities, to prove the city is the right place to live.

The full housing study can be found on the city's website.
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 []
ST. HELENA  Now more than ever, St. Helena Catholic Church is becoming more than just a place to worship.

The end of the Churchs 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday was also a beginning  a time for parishioners to have their first up-close look at the new building that will host the congregations youth and family programs. Streaming out of their stone-block sanctuary on Tainter Street, worshipers gathered outside the churchs Parish Life Center, the two-story, 10,000-square-foot building intended to become the hub of the churchs weekly outreach.

With prayers and the sprinkling of holy water, priests blessed the Parish Life Center and those who will visit it in the coming years.

It will be a place where we get to know one another, where we can give witness to our faith in Christ, Bishop Robert Vasa of the Diocese of Santa Rosa said during a ceremony inside the parish hall attended by an estimated 300 people who crowded the floor of the main hall. May all who come here experience the joy of Christ, experience his friendship and enjoy the comfort of his love.

Under construction since June 2016, the Parish Life Center got its impetus two years earlier when the Diocese of Santa Rosa started a capital campaign for the St. Helena church and 42 others, assigning a goal to each congregation. For Father Gordon Kalil and the local church leadership, their most pressing need was obvious  a more useful and welcoming space for social and instructional groups relegated to the cavernous church gymnasium.

There is no place for hospitality, no place for gathering, no place for after services and no (meeting) place during the week, Kalil said earlier this month.

After razing an old garage and thrift shop on the grounds, the St. Helena church began erecting in their place a Tuscan-style edifice roofed with clay tile and featuring a top-floor porch overlooking the courtyard.

At the heart of its mission are the meeting rooms and gathering spaces where church leaders say members of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, will receive recreation and instruction. A new Family Life ministry will include movie nights and other activities for parishioners with young children, and an upstairs lounge and classrooms will become the base for confirmation classes and other programs for local middle- and high-school-age youth.

I like it here better, said 13-year-old Isaac Velazquez of St. Helena, whose youth group will hold its first class in the new building on Tuesday. Before, we only had the gym; now we have our own personal room with bean-bag chairs, couches, a fridge. Were all gonna like it better in here.

Its been hard, because they dont have a space they can really call their own, added Fatima Jimenez, the churchs youth faith coordinator. This is a place where they can decorate it the way they want, and unwind from the weekly tasks that they have.

From the point at which the rooms became more than just lines on paper, youth minister Jay Hipolito saw the need to create a refuge that St. Helenas younger worshipers could truly claim as theirs.

You cant have a family without a home  and this is a new home for the youth groups, said Hipolito, who began ministering at the St. Helena church in 2014. If youre in a classroom, its just not the same vibe. You cant put kids in another classroom and expect them to be energized about their faith.

While much of the Parish Life Center is devoted to the needs of the churchs younger members, its grounds  though still fenced and only partially landscaped  feature a tribute to the Roman Catholic faiths roots.

Adorning the courtyard between the parish building and the sanctuary is a white statue of Saint Helena, mother of the fourth-century Emperor Constantine, who declared Christianity the state religion of his once-pagan realm. A large cross in the crook of the statues right arm symbolizes the three-year search Helena undertook for the cross on which Jesus had been crucified three centuries earlier.

Walter Arnold, the Chicago-based artist who created the statue, humbly described the Helena likeness as one among many. But if his rendition is to stand out, he added, it may do so by symbolizing a saints human side  and the human face presented by its namesake church in the Napa Valley.

I wanted to show a warm, compassionate person who would speak with you, who would give you comfort, said Arnold. I hope Ive succeeded in doing that.
SAN FRANCISCO -- A female BART passenger told police that someone handed her a threatening note Saturday afternoon on train in San Francisco, police said Sunday.

At 4:51 p.m. the passenger told police that she was on a Dublin-bound train when someone handed her a note that said guns were pointed at her and she should give her wallet and phone to the person behind her without turning around.

Police said the passenger faked a medical emergency to attract attention to her and reported the incident to police. She did not talk to an officer.

Later, the victim spoke with an officer in Oakland and gave police more information. The victim was not sure who handed her the note and no one appeared to have a gun.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Hundreds gathered at the National AIDS Memorial in San Francisco Saturday to dedicate the Hemophilia Memorial Circle to honor the people in the hemophilia community who died of AIDS, organizers said.

The memorial consists of a new stone circle and landscaping with benches that will have the names of the dead and the names of family members, friends and supporters of those who died.

The memorial is meant to pay tribute also to people who have worked on behalf of the hemophilia community to make sure America's blood supply is safe and the tragedy that occurred never happens again.

In the 1980s clotting factor was a lifeline for people with hemophilia, which is a genetic condition that prevents a person's blood from clotting.

A person can bleed to death if their blood fails to clot.

The clotting factor in the 1980s was derived from a large, diverse blood supply, which was tainted.

Eventually 90 percent of people with severe hemophilia were infected with human immunodeficiency virus also known as HIV.

"Each name inscribed here will tell a story of a person who was loved, and who was gone too soon," John Cunningham, executive director of the National AIDS Memorial, said in a statement.

Organizers said that cries for help to the government and drug companies were met with silence and people were left to fight for their lives on their own.

Since then, hemophiliacs have served as the guardians of the nation's blood supply, according to organizers.

The memorial circle brings together the hemophilia and gay communities, bound by common stories of fear, prejudice, loss and hope.

The memorial circle was a partnership between the Hemophilia Federation of America, the National AIDS Memorial and the National Hemophilia Foundation.

For more information about the memorial and how to have a name inscribed, go to www.aidsmemorial.org/hemophilia.
In May, the Sinclair Broadcast Groupone of the largest owners of TV stations in the country announced plans to spend $3.9 billion to acquire Tribune Media, parent company of 42 TV stations located in larger markets like Chicago and Los Angeles. The resulting merger would create a broadcasting behemoth of more that 230 stations reaching some 72 percent of the television viewing audience coast-to-coast.

The Federal Communication Commission and the Justice Department are both currently reviewing the deal, as well they should. If the purchase is allowed to move forward, it could have devastating consequences not just for the quality of local television but for democracy itself.

To begin with, Sinclair has a well-earned reputation for putting profits ahead of the public interest. The stations it absorbs as part of the Tribune Media merger will undoubtedly face layoffs and pressure to cut costs. Shortly after the company purchased Seattle ABC affiliate KOMO and Portland station KATU in 2013, it fired several of the stations employees. Local news and public affairs programming suffered as a result.

Sinclairs relentless pursuit of profits has also led it to blur the line between advertising and news. After the company bought Washington DC station WJLA in 2014, WJLAs morning news program began hyping Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as a tourist destination as part of a company-wide tourist promotion deal. And in 2016 dozens of Sinclair stations repeatedly ran commercials for the Hunstman Cancer Institute during local news without identifying the segments as paid content, a blatant violation of FCC regulations.

More disturbing than Sinclairs commercialism and penchant for belt-tightening is the companys habit of imposing a right-wing political slant on its stations local newscasts.

The Washington Post in December reported that the companys stations routinely gave neutral or favorable coverage to Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign while giving Hillary Clinton overwhelmingly negative coverage.

According to the New York Times, Sinclair forces local stations to air must run political commentaries from conservative pundits such as former Sinclair executive Mark Hyman and one time Trump aide Boris Epshteyn. These commentaries routinely bash social welfare spending, Democrats and liberal causes.

Sinclair has a long history of politically-motivated programming decisions. After the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the company ordered its Baltimore station to read patriotic statements praising President Bush. In 2004, Sinclair told its stations to air a film smearing presidential candidate John Kerrys service in the Vietnam War, only to back off because of the ensuing controversy.

On the eve of the 2012 election, the company compelled stations in battleground states like Ohio to run a half-hour election special loaded with partisan criticisms of President Obama. Among other things, the broadcast proclaimed that the cost of Obamacare is making many Americans sick to their stomachs.

Veteran reporter David Zurawik of The Baltimore Sun has said Sinclair, comes as close to classic propaganda as I think Ive seen in thirty years of covering local television or national television.

The handling of the Sinclair-Tribune merger by the FCC  now under the direction of Trumps appointed chair, Ajit Pai raises some serious questions about political favoritism and preferential treatment on the part of government regulators.

Since Pai took the reins at the FCC, the agency has made a number of decisions that directly benefited Sinclair. The agency reinstated an obscure rule  the UHF discount making it possible for Sinclair to own stations reaching a larger share of the national TV audience than would have been permitted previously. It also established an expedited timeline for review of the Tribune purchase.

What makes this pattern of favoritism so suspicious is that Trumps son-in-law and senior White House advisor Jared Kushner has boasted publicly that in the lead up to the election the Trump campaign struck a deal with Sinclair for better coverage. Following the election, Trump himself met with Sinclair Chairman David Smith to discuss FCC rule changes. And since becoming FCC chair, Pai has met several times with Sinclair officials.

As Craig Aaron of media reform group Free Press commented, It sure looks like a quid pro quo.

Fortunately, the FCC has been known to respond to public pressure. The agency has already received close to a thousand comments opposing Sinclairs proposed takeover of Tribune Media. The Coalition to Save Local Mediaa group of independent media companies, local cable distributors and civic organizationsis organizing to fight the merger.
MELBOURNE, Florida  The City of Melbournes water production has returned to normal capacity following Hurricane Irma. Therefore, the Melbourne Water Department is no longer urging customers to strictly conserve water.



(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Melbourne water customers are in the following communities:

Indialantic

Indian Harbour Beach

Melbourne

Melbourne Beach

Melbourne Village

Palm Shores

Satellite Beach

West Melbourne

Unincorporated Brevard South of Pineda Causeway (Customers who live in unincorporated Brevard County located south of Pineda Causeway and receive a water bill from the City of Melbourne. Suntree and Viera are served by the City of Cocoa water system  not Melbourne.)

Hurricane Irma had considerably degraded the water quality in Melbournes main source of water, Lake Washington.

For several days after the hurricane, it took a great deal more water and time in the production process to treat and deliver safe water to south Brevard County customers.

Image credit: Google
- Trump to address the UN general assembly for the first time.





- Many await President Trump's speech as he addresses 193 member nations.





- North Korean diplomats will have a front-row seat in the U.N. General Assembly.

With Crisis looming at large all over the world, U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to address 193 World leaders for the first time in New York





Many will be eagerly awaiting President Trump's speech as he was very critical of the U.N. during his Presidential Campaign in March 2016.





"The United Nations is not a friend of democracy  it's not a friend to freedom  it's not a friend even to the United States of America," the US president said in March last year.





Donald Trump has however been watchful of his tone towards the U.N. since he assumed office.





North Korean diplomats will have a front-row seat in the U.N. General Assembly for Trump's speech on Tuesday morning, which will touch on the escalating crisis that has seen Trump and Pyongyang trade threats of military action.





Another point of concern durring this meeting will be U.S. President Donald Trump's views on Iran and the Nuclear deal that was entered into by his predecessor Barack Obama.





During the Presidential campaign and since he became President, Donal Trump has been very critical of the nuclear deal and blaming former President Obama for agreeing to such terms.





When asked on Friday what Moscow's message would be for Washington, Russia's U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, said: "Stay in the JCPOA (the nuclear deal)."





A senior U.N. Security Council diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: "We are faced with real uncertainties with respect to North Korea and it's a bit dangerous ... to add another source of uncertainty with respect to Iran."
23:50





"Any policy of a government will be questioned by the Supreme Court if it is violating fundamental rights. The refugees are entitled to the protection of fundamental rights of Article 12 and 14.





"That is why I say it has no legal leg to stand. It's an old propaganda of this government," he told reporters Hyderabad.





In its affidavit, the Centre said Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continued stay posed "serious national security ramifications".





The affidavit also said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the SC to enforce the right.





"The affidavit which has been filed today by the government, I am of the opinion, it is an old government agenda and propaganda. It is rehashed and it has no legal leg to stand. It is violative of Article 12 and 14," the Hyderabad MP said.





Owaisi said his party feels that the Rohingyas issue should be seen as a humanitarian and not a Muslim issue.





"As far as my party is concerned, we are of the firm opinion that the Rohingya issue should not be looked as a Muslim issue. It is a humanitarian issue," he said.





"These people have run away from their country to save themselves from a terrorist, Myanmarese military government and to send them back would be a great travesty of justice. I hope that day does not come," the AIMIM chief said.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi today claimed the affidavit filed by the Centre in the Supreme Court over the Rohingya issue may not stand the legal scrutiny as refugees are also entitled to fundamental rights.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-14 21:55:30|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

ATHENS, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The sale and transfer of Greek railway company TrainOSE to Italy's Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane for 45 million euros (53.5 million U.S. dollars) was completed on Thursday, Greece's privatization fund announced.

The agreement was signed in Corfu, the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) said in an e-mailed press statement.

"HRADF completes today a bidding process that began four years ago and opens up new page for TrainOSE, as the privatization of the company has resulted in the closure of the European Commission's state aid dossier on TrainOSE's debt to OSE, amounting to 692 million euros," the fund's announcement noted.

Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane is the third largest railway company in Europe.

Italy's railway was the sole candidate to submit a binding offer for the privatization of the Greek railway operator last year during the second international tender launched by the Greek state.

"Italy is Greece's foremost strategic trade partner and we hope that this cooperation will be strengthened further in the sector of investments," Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said on Thursday in joint statements with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

"Greece is emerging from the crisis and its prospects for growth need to be boosted through substantial foreign investments that will create jobs," Tsipras said, underlining that Italy's railways would invest 500 million euros in Greek railways.

The transfer was sealed as TrainOSE employees held a 24-hour strike and a protest rally in front of the company's headquarters, protesting the privatization out of fear there would be job dismissals. (1 euro = 1.19 U.S. dollars)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 01:01:48|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ALGIERS, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Algerian Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia on Sunday admitted that the North African nation is facing a difficult financial situation, saying the government will resort to non-traditional financing resources to overcome this crisis.

While presenting the outlines of the government's Plan of Action to the members of the lower house of the Parliament, Ouyahia said non-traditional funding would enable Algeria to come out of the financial crisis within five years.

Ouyahia noted that due to the oil prices plunging in the last three years, "foreign exchange reserves have fallen by half, going from 200 billion dollars in 2014 to nearly 100 dollars billion currently."

Ouyahia specified that the Revenue Regulation Fund (FRR) has been exhausted by last February, saying the only way to preserve trade balance is to maintain the implementation of import licenses policy which the government initiated in 2015.

He further pointed out that the public treasury will never resort to foreign debt, but rather to borrowing from the Central Bank, assuming that such a step would not cause depreciation of the dinar, as claimed by some financial experts.

In this regard, Ouyahia said that "the dinar drops when foreign exchange reserves fall," arguing that the dinar has fallen by 25 to 30 percent in the last three years, although non-traditional financing did not exist.

He specified that Algeria's public debt currently does not exceed 20 percent of GDP, which provides the Treasury comfortable margin for borrowing.

In the same context, the prime minister said that the government maintains public subsidy policy in 2018, while reassuring that the Budget Law of 2018 would introduce no additional taxes.

Politically, Ouyahia admitted that the North African nation is going through impulsive political situation, as he promised to promote "calm democracy" through dialogue with all accredited political parties.

He further pledged to continue the fight against terrorism by strengthening the means of the security forces and fighting all forms of terrorism.

The government's Plan of Action is currently being debated pending approval at the parliament. Once approved, the plan will be ready to be implemented.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 03:37:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

BRATISLAVA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed in a traffic crash involving a passenger car and a Polish bus near Sahy in the Southern Slovakia on Sunday.

The Slovak Police spokesperson Renata Cuhakova informed on the same day that "the passenger car was caught alight. All four people in it died - a young couple and two children aged less than five. Bus driver and one other person had light injuries."

This accident is on one of the worst in Slovakia so far this year.

Last year, 242 people died in car accidents in Slovakia.
Source:Xinhua| 2017-09-18 08:09:06|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

Chinese State Councilor Guo Shengkun meets with heads of delegations attending the 31th Session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's Regional Anti-Terrorism Agency in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 08:43:26|Editor: Yurou

Video Player Close

by Jamil Bhatti

ISLAMABAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The latest U.S. unilateral drone attack in Pakistan would possibly enlarge the gaps between the two countries in their common course of anti-terrorism war, experts and analysts here said , expressing their concerns as the strikes are usually condemned by Pakistan as a violation of its sovereignty.

The latest U.S. strike took place on Friday, killing at least three people who were reportedly the members of Afghan Taliban in Pakistan' northwestern tribal region of Kurram Agency that bordering Afghanistan.

The unilateral U.S. military move came after Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's call for joint efforts against militants in both Pakistan and Afghanistan earlier this week. Abbasi said that any one-sided move will be counter-productive, hurting both countries' efforts for peace and fight against terrorism.

"I fear such unilateral acts will further worsen the Pak-U.S. relations in coming days," said Saeed Chaudhry, director of Islamabad Council for International Affairs, adding that the latest attack is a big blow to Pak-U.S. relations which has already gone low after U.S. President Donald Trump's serious criticism on Pakistan for hiding militants in its tribal areas bordering Afghanistan

Different circles in Pakistan, following the Trump's statement, were already expecting the resumption of the U.S. drone strikes in the tribal areas, which had been only a few since the departure of former U.S. President Barack Obama's administration.

According to statistics, at least 408 U.S. drone attacks have taken place in different areas of Pakistan since 2004 in which over 3,000 people, including a great number of civilians, were killed.

Experts believe that there is nothing principally wrong with the U.S. drone strikes inside Pakistan to take out dangerous terrorists, as long as these are conducted with the explicit permission of the Pakistani government, otherwise public pressure will force Pakistani authorities to stand against such unilateral actions.

Furthermore, the drone strikes are highly unpopular among the Pakistani public as they also kill common people indiscriminately. A number of rallies and litigations against American secret agency's personnel who are responsible for such attacks were seen in Pakistan in the past.

Shahzad Akbar, an advocate who is contesting legal cases against U.S. intelligence personnel for Pakistani victims of drone strikes, opined that if Trump pushes for such campaign again, it will really only be punishing innocent men, women, and children.

Official sources revealed that Pakistan, which gave stern reactions to Trump's statement, has decided to lodge a strong formal protest with the United States over the drone strike by summoning the U.S. ambassador to the Foreign Office in Islamabad.

Supporting the recent development, Chaudhry said it's Pakistan's right to protest against the unwanted U.S. attacks which are an attempt to undermine Pakistan's successes in the war on terror.

The recent tension escalation between Pakistan and the United States prompted Pakistan to seriously mull over bringing changes into its foreign policy, especially its role in the war on terror and peace process in Afghanistan, most probably on its own terms.

Aslam Khan, a security analyst working for the Urdu daily Nawai Waqt, thought that Washington has put more wood into the fire in Afghanistan and overlooked the option of a political solution to the issue.

"I feel that the United States has resumed its unilateral strikes inside Pakistani territory with little regard for its consent and sovereignty," said Khan, adding that it is a very crucial time for Pakistan to answer the question of what to do next.

Following the Trump's policy remarks about Pakistan, heads of the Pakistani government and armed forces ensured the nation that Pakistan will fight the war on terror "on its own terms" and "nobody can force us to do what we don't want to do."

Taimur Shumail, a policy analyst at the University of South Asia, urged the world to comprehend the nature of terrorism in the region and Pakistan's intensive response to it, rather than only pressurizing and scapegoating it.

Since 2014, Pakistan has taken substantial steps against terrorism, including the launch of several successful military operations, sharing information on terrorist organizations and their safe havens inside Afghanistan with U.S. and Afghan officials, and banning many outlawed groups and their financial sources.

U.S., NATO, and Afghan forces should follow Pakistan's benchmark successes and efforts against terrorism by starting operations against terrorists who are hiding in Afghanistan, said Shumail.

And Pakistani civilian and military leadership has always complained about the forces' inaction in combating militants hiding in Afghanistan and launching attacks in Pakistan.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 10:23:54|Editor: Liangyu

Video Player Close

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- A knife-wielding student at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) in Atlanta, capital of the U.S. state of Georgia, was fatally shot by the school's campus police, authorities said Sunday.

The Georgia Tech Police Department responded to a 911 call about a person reportedly carrying a knife and a gun near a school dormitory at approximately 11 p.m. Saturday (0300 GMT Sunday), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) said in a press release Sunday.

Officers arrived at the scene and tried to make contact with Scout Schultz, 21, who was holding a knife, outside a campus parking garage, according to the release.

The release said Schultz was not complying with verbal commands as he approached the officers before one of them fired, striking him.

Schultz was taken to a local hospital but died later, the release said. No officers were injured during the incident.

Videos taken by witnesses showed Schultz appeared to be walking barefoot, with an object in his right hand. He can be heard yelling "shoot me" to the officers who urged him to drop the knife.

"Nobody wants to hurt you, man. Drop the knife," one officer was heard shouting back. A single shot rang out later before Schultz fell on the ground and screamed in pain.

The officer who took the shot was not named. It remains unclear whether investigators ever found a gun or any disciplinary action would be carried out.

"Our son, Scout Schultz, was killed last night by the Georgia Tech police," Schultz's father, William Schultz, wrote on Facebook Sunday.

"He had a tiny knife." the father said. "They didn't have to shoot him in the heart, but that's what they did."

Schultz was a four-year computer engineering student from Lilburn, northeast Atlanta, according to a statement released by the Georgia Institute of Technology on Sunday morning.

The Georgia Tech Pride Alliance, a Georgia Tech organization for LGBTQIA students and their allies, said it was saddened by the death and remembered Schultz.

The GBI said it will continue investigating what occurred during the incident.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 10:49:01|Editor: Liangyu

Video Player Close

People show their identity cards as they wait in a queue to cast their votes during the parliamentary by-election in eastern Pakistan's Lahore, on Sept. 17, 2017. Ousted Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's wife Kulsoom Nawaz has won parliamentary seat in a neck-and-neck by-election, according to unofficial results announced early Monday. (Xinhua/Jamil Ahmed)

ISLAMABAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Ousted Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's wife Kulsoom Nawaz has won parliamentary seat in a neck-and-neck by-election, according to unofficial results announced early Monday.

The National Assembly's seat in Lahore, the capital of Punjab province, fell vacant after the country's top court removed Nawaz Sharif as prime minister over corruption charges in July.

According to the unofficial results Kulsoom Nawaz secured 61,745 votes while her rival, Yasmeen Rashid of the opposition Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) or Justice Movement bagged 47099 votes, an election official said at a news conference Monday morning.

Sheikh Azhar Hussain, an independent candidate, got 7,130 votes and placed third in the contest, which had assumed importance in the country's politics after Sharif's disqualification. The total turnout was 39.42 percent, according to the official.

Faisal Mir, candidate of the main opposition Pakistan Peoples Party, got only 1,414 votes raising questions about the party's position in Punjab province. The province is considered as the power base of Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N).

Official results will be announced by the Election Commission of Pakistan in Islamabad in a couple of days.

There were a total of 321,633 registered voters, including 179,505 male and 142,128 female voters, in the National Assembly seat (NA-120) Lahore.

Kulsoom Nawaz, who is currently under treatment in a London hospital for cancer, offered thanks to the voters in a telephonic call, her daughter Maryam Nawaz said in her speech to thousands of supporters after unofficial results were announced.

The election was held peacefully and there were only minor incidents of scuffle during the 9-hour polling on Sunday. Pakistan Army and paramilitary troops were deployed for maintenance of peace in view of tension between the two arch rivals.

Maryam Nawaz, daughter of Nawaz Sharif, who had led election campaign for her mother, told supporters after the results that the people have rejected those who wanted "conspiracies and chaos" in the country.

"Nawaz Sharif still lives in the heart of the people," Maryam told thousands of her party's supporters, who gathered outside the party's election office in Lahore.

PTI's candidate Yasmeen Rashid alleged some mismanagement during the poll and said she would approach the court against the election authorities.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 10:54:05|Editor: Liangyu

Video Player Close

HAVANA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of thousands of Cubans took to the streets over the weekend to pick garbage and clean up the wreckage left by powerful Hurricane Irma a week ago.

Joining the massive efforts were thousands of workers from various agencies, universities, the military as well as residents of each neighborhood in the country's 167 municipalities.

"We will continue to shine a light, among all of us, on the scars of these dark days," said the daily, Juventud Rebelde, as it called on all Cubans to take part in this campaign "for the welfare of everybody."

The government threw its full might behind the nationwide effort.

In Havana alone, more than 800 trucks worked to haul waste, supported by cranes, heavy equipment and even carts.

"Now we have to make an effort to recover quickly," Armando Garcia, a computer engineering student, told Xinhua as he loaded a truck with branches and pieces of fallen trees.

Not far from him, Eddy Lara, a soldier, cut a fallen tree with an electric saw, laughing and exclaiming that "it is more difficult than shooting a cannon, but it is what I have to do now."

The Havana Tribune highlighted the recovery work in Havana, which saw a bustle across the city at dawn.

As meetings of Defense Councils were activated at every level of government nationwide, President Raul Castro hailed the importance of this popular mobilization, which has largely been led by the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDRs), a network of neighborhood committees across Cuba.

"The organization today is more useful than ever in each neighborhood, as the CDRs always respond in difficult times such as the ones we are living in," said Carlos Rafael Miranda, national coordinator of the CDRs.

"We are responsible for taking over the streets of our communities and transforming them, namely, by turning voluntary work into a systematic task," he continued.

"We have to raise our heads and move forward," said Luciano Vazquez, a resident of the coastal town of Cojimar.

"It was terrible. I've lived here for 50 years and I've never seen such a furious sea," said Vazquez, 76.

Dulce Arteaga, from the devastated town of Yaguajay in central Cuba, sought the help of her neighbors to remove the trees that broke through the walls of her home.

"We are confident that the resources will come, the Revolution never abandons anybody," she was quoted as saying by the Cuban News Agency on Sunday.

The powerful storm swept most of Cuba's northern coastline over a 72-hour period, claiming 10 lives and causing major damage to much of the island, especially its housing, electric grid, agriculture and tourism.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 11:09:09|Editor: Liangyu

Video Player Close

SEOUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. aircraft carrier and its accompanying battleships will conduct a joint exercise with South Korean forces next month amid rising geopolitical risks on the Korean Peninsula.

According to Seoul's defense ministry report submitted Monday to the parliamentary defense committee, the South Korean military will take effective measures to counter the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)'s nuclear and missile threats.

As part of the efforts, the U.S. B-1B strategic bomber will be sent to the Korean Peninsula later this month, and the joint South Korea-U.S.-Japan missile warning drills will be carried out from this month to early October.

In October, the U.S. aircraft carrier strike group, led by a nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan, will be dispatched to the peninsula to stage a joint naval exercise with South Korean forces, according to the defense ministry's report.

The ministry said it will strengthen the regular mobilization of U.S. strategic military assets and rapidly wrap up the consultation with the U.S. side on the bilateral missile guideline to increase the payload of South Korea's homegrown ballistic missiles.

Seoul will also continue efforts to secure the so-called three-pillar system, including its indigenous missile defense system and preemptive attack capability against the DPRK's nuclear and missile sites, while ramping up cooperation with the international community for sanctions and pressure on Pyongyang, the ministry said.

The report came amid rising geopolitical risks on the peninsula, caused by the DPRK's launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), called Hwasong-12, on Friday.

It followed Pyongyang's test on Sept. 3 of what it claimed was a hydrogen bomb that can be fitted atop a ballistic missile with intercontinental capability.

UN Security Council unanimously approved a new resolution toughening sanctions on the DPRK, which curtails the country's oil imports, bans all of its textile exports and prohibits further work permits abroad for DPRK workers.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 11:09:10|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

SYDNEY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Australian city of Brisbane will now be directly reachable from Beijing, with new direct flights from China's capital announced on Monday by the government of the state of Queensland, together with Air China.

The service, which will operate four times a week, is expected to add a further 191 million Australian (153.14 U.S. million) dollars to the state's economy, along with bringing over 170,000 Chinese visitors to Australia over the next four years.

"Securing flights from China's capital city for the first time is a big coup for Queensland, opening up new opportunities to tap into this valuable market," Premier of Queensland Annastacia Palaszczuk said on Monday.

"We know the best way to grow tourism in Queensland is to secure more direct international flights."

With 2017 being the China-Australia Year of Tourism, and with Chinese tourist numbers exceeding those of any other nation for the past few months in Australia, Australian Trade Minister Steven Ciobo said in a statement obtained by Xinhua on Monday that this would only further deepen the relationship between the two nations.

"China remains Australia's most valuable tourism market with visitors spending almost 10 billion Australian dollars (8.02 billion U.S. dollars ) across Australian in the last year," Ciobo said.

"With the potential to be worth up to 13 billion Australian dollars (10.42 billion U.S. dollars) by the year 2020, it is crucial that Australia continues to strengthen its ties with China to help realise the full potential of this market."

According to the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the amount of Chinese visitors to Australia increased by 18 percent in July this year compared to the corresponding period last year.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 11:59:27|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

TOKYO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- "Japan has to truly reflect upon its invasive history, otherwise it won't be able to rebuild trust with its Asian neighbors," said Masahito Sato, founder of a civil group in Japan dedicated to studying the history of Japan's invasion of China's Hainan Island during World War II.

Japanese troops captured China's Hainan Island in 1939 and used it as a base of operations for its invasion of other parts of China and Southeast Asia. The Japanese military also committed numerous atrocities on the island including killing, raping and burning down villages.

Sato started to study the history of Japan's military invasion of its neighbors in the 1970s and gradually learned about the atrocities committed by the Japanese military on Hainan Island.

To learn more about this part of history, Sato founded a civil group and he and his fellow scholars decided to visit Hainan Island by themselves to collect testimonies from local residents.

"We have to go to the places where the atrocities happened and listen to the testimonies of the victims ourselves, because our government has erased all evidences and records here on these war crimes," said Sato.

Since 1998, Sato and the members of his civil group have visited Hainan Island for over 30 times and interviewed more than 200 people, mainly relatives of the victims of Japan's atrocities.

While being appalled by the war crimes committed by Japan, they are also concerned about the current situation as most of the Japanese young people nowadays do not have sufficient knowledge of the war history due to the government's whitewashing and erasing of history.

Hidemaru Saito, a member of Sato's group, said that for some Japanese, the war history was a history of Japan suffering nuclear bombing and air attacks and being a victim instead of being the victimizer.

Sato said that many civil groups in Japan now are trying to tell the younger generations about the true history and "under government pressure, though the young people have very few opportunities to learn about the historical truths, such opportunities do exist."

Kim Jung-Mi, a Korean scholar and also a member of Sato's civil group, said that Japan has been concealing the historical truth about the war, and the generations that really know about the truth are aging.

"We have to make these memories imprinted in history and pass on to the next generations," she said.

"If I were a Chinese, how could I trust a Japan that denies the Nanjing Massacre and the fact that Japan invaded other countries? ...The first step (to build mutual trust) is to admit the history," said Sato.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 12:14:31|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Veep" ruled this year's biggest night in U.S. television on Sunday, thanks to Emmy wins for outstanding drama and comedy series.

"Big Little Lies" and "Saturday Night Live" were also big winners.

The 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony was held at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday evening and airing on CBS.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 12:14:34|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

HONG KONG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The police force of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) conducted an anti-terror drill at a downtown community Monday morning.

The drill, code-named "Skyvault", involved police hunting a terrorist who blended into a crowd after officers "took down" six others armed with assault rifles and handguns.

The 90-minute drill began with seven terrorists storming Hong Kong City Hall, a complex in Central providing municipal public services, and shooting citizens indiscriminately.

Shortly, police arrived and disposed of four, but three went into a hall during a piano recital. Two more were shot by anti-terrorism squad officers while one got into the crowd.

Amid an evacuation, the police force's Affected Person Processing Unit had to spot the seventh terrorist.

The drill was the first at Hong Kong City Hall but was the 13th such exercise in the SAR so far this year. About 200 officers from the Counter Terrorism Response Unit, the Police Tactical Unit and Hong Kong Island Regional Headquarters together with its emergency unit were deployed.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 12:24:38|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

MANILA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Southeast Asian ministers converged in Manila on Monday to discuss steps on how to strengthen regional strategies and cooperation to combat transnational crimes.

A statement from the Philippine government said the four-day ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crimes (AMMTC) will be chaired by Catalino Cuy, officer-in-charge of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

One of the highlights of the event is the second special ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Rise of Radicalization and Violent Extremism (SAMMRRVE), which will be convened "to provide a platform for ASEAN member states to exchange experiences, views, and ideas on the best practices in handling the issues of radicalization and violent extremism."

Considered as transnational crimes are terrorism, illegal drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, arms smuggling, money laundering, sea piracy, cybercrime, economic crime, environmental crime, intellectual property theft and smuggling of cultural property.

According to a report of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in 2016, transnational crime is booming in Southeast Asia, aided by rapid regional economic integration and patchy cross-border police work.

Cuy said the Philippines "is proud and honored to host this year's meet considering that the Philippines is also very active in promoting and taking action against transnational crimes, particularly trafficking in persons."

"We take great pride in hosting this year's AMMTC and the ASEAN Summit. We all recognize the magnitude and complexity of combating transnational crime and what we will do in the next four days will be crucial in our collaborative effort against this regional concern," he said.

The Philippines is this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Ministers and officials of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea will actively participate as dialogue partners, the statement read.

ASEAN groups 10 member states, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 12:34:41|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

MEXICO, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- American company Netflix's renowned location scout was killed in Mexico while working for the hit series Narcos, which tells stories of drug cartel and the war on drugs, the company said Sunday.

Carlos Munoz Portal, 37, was found dead in his car in a notoriously violent area in Mexico state.

A friend of the victim told the Spanish newspaper EL Pais that Munoz was travelling in the region taking photos for location for the fourth season of Narcos. The death happened on Monday but the news came out recently.

"We are aware of the passing of Carlos Munoz Portal, a well-respected location scout, and send our condolences to his family," Netflix said in a statement.

"The facts surrounding his death are still unknown as authorities continue to investigate," Netflix added.

Local police were reportedly having difficulties finding the murderer as the case lacks witnesses.

The victim has worked 10 years as a location scout and contributed to movies such as James Bond's latest version Spectre, the action series Fast and Furious, and Sicario.

Munoz's death raised doubts about whether the production of the Narcos series, which are about the rise and fall of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar, will continue in Mexico. The decision may affect hundreds of jobs in the South American country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 12:39:43|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

by Peerzada Arshad Hamid

NEW DELHI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The troops of India and Pakistan exchanged heavy fire and shelling on Monday for the fourth-straight day on the International Border (IB) in Kashmir, officials said.

The exchange of fire was reported along the IB in Arnia area of R S Pura sector of Jammu, the winter capital city of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"Pakistani troops again violated the cease-fire by firing mortars and resorting to heavy firing in Arnia sector along the IB last night. The shelling targeting Indian positions and civilian areas started around 9:00 p.m. (local time) and was intermittently going on since then," a police official said.

According to Indian officials, the border guards posted in the sector effectively retaliated to the firing and the exchange of fire continued for several hours.

No casualty was reported on the Indian side in the fresh exchange of fire, officials said.

On Saturday night a woman was killed and five others wounded in Arnia sector.

According to Pakistan military's Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), two civilians were killed and four others wounded due to Indian firing in Phokhlian sector on their side on Friday.

The fresh exchange of fire has triggered a panic among the residents on both sides of the divide and started to trigger civilian migrations.

Reports said nearly 50,000 civilians in forward villages of Pakistan's Sialkot sector have deserted their homes following the Indian firing.

In Arnia sector, the firing damaged more than 50 houses.

"It seemed as if war has broke out as shells were raining very close by," Ram Lal, a local resident said over telephone. "It was a very narrow escape for my family."

The residents in surrounding villages of Arnia -- Sei Khurd, Nikowal, Jabowal, Allah, Treva, etc. experienced the similar experiences.

Earlier on Friday an Indian border guard belonging to Border Security Force (BSF) was killed during skirmishes.

According to Indian officials, over 300 incidents of cease-fire violations were recorded along the LoC this year.

This year saw a surge in skirmishes on the IB and the LoC between the two countries. Apart from troop casualties, the firing has claimed civilian lives on both sides, besides prompting migrations of residents from frontier areas.

Both New Delhi and Islamabad accuse each other of resorting to unprovoked firings and violating cease-fire agreements. And both sides maintain that their troops gave befitting reply. The troops of India and Pakistan intermittently exchange fire on the 720 km-long LoC and the 198-km IB in Kashmir, despite an agreement in 2003 to observe a cease-fire. However, the cease-fire remains in effect.

LoC is a de facto border that divides Kashmir into India and Pakistan controlled parts.

Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan, is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir.

It is unclear what prompted the fresh stand-off between the troops of the two sides.

The two countries are currently at loggerheads with each other. Last week the two-day talks between them at the World Bank headquarters in Washington failed to break the deadlock.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 13:39:54|Editor: Yurou

Video Player Close

KABUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Nine IS militants were killed Sunday in an airstrike in Afghanistan's eastern province of Nangarhar, the Interior Ministry said Monday.

"Yesterday, nine Daesh (IS) terrorists were killed after Afghan Air Force targeted militants' hideouts in Achin district, Nangarhar province," the ministry said in a statement.

The air raid also destroyed weapons and vehicles belonging to the IS terrorists, the statement noted.

Special engineering teams of Afghan National Police also found and defused four Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in provincial capital of Jalalabad and neighboring Muhmand Dara and Bati Kot districts, the statement added.

The militant group fighting government security forces has yet to make comments.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 13:39:55|Editor: Yurou

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The local government in the western Indian state of Goa has decided to ban drinking of alcohol in public places from next month.

Goa is one of the very few states in India where liquor consumption in public places is allowed as it is very popular with foreign tourists for its beautiful beaches.

State Chief Manohar Parrikar said Sunday the decision to put a ban on alcohol consumption in public places has been taken to curb the nuisance created by people in inebriated condition.

"If someone wants to drink (liquor), they should drink inside and not in public places," he said in state capital Panajai.

"We need to come out with a notification banning drinking of liquor in public places. The notification will be issued by October-end for which we will amend the existing law," he added.

Goa has already banned drinking in selected public places, including beaches.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 13:50:01|Editor: Yurou

Video Player Close

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Singapore will set aside 1.5 million Singapore dollars (about 1.1 million U.S. dollars) out of its 10-million-Singapore-dollar ASEAN Cyber Capacity Building Program (ACCP) for the next three years to boost ASEAN's technical capacity against cyber risks, the government said Monday.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity, Singapore's Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said that the fund will be used to build technical capability among incident responders and operators in the ASEAN region.

The ACCP was announced by the minister at the opening ceremony of the first ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity last year. It is aimed at developing technical, policy and strategy-building capabilities within ASEAN member states through workshops, seminars and conferences organized, in collaboration with partners such as government agencies, industry players and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Yaacob Ibrahim said at this year's event that Singapore will be partnering the industry to run an ASEAN Cybersecurity Industrial Attachment Program, which will offer training opportunity in Singapore for up to 18 candidates from ASEAN member states.

The minister suggested three ways to ensure a secure and resilient cyberspace in the ASEAN region.

First, the ASEAN countries need to achieve good cybersecurity domestically so as to better contribute to the regional effort. Second, the countries can work together within and beyond ASEAN to minimize cyber risks by raising the level of regional capacity and cooperation in cybersecurity. Third, the countries need to go beyond themselves and the region, and strengthen international partnerships, because a coherent and coordinated global effort is key to a trusted and resilient cyber environment.

"Hopefully we will succeed, and look back in 2067 to this day when our collective efforts to tackle cybersecurity paved the way for a sustained 50 years of growth and development," he said.

The ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity is part of the inaugural Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW), which will have an opening plenary on Tuesday morning.

The SICW is the region's most established cybersecurity event and is organized by Singapore's Cyber Security Agency. It is expected to attract over 6,000 international and regional policy makers, thought leaders, industry experts and visitors.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 13:55:03|Editor: Lu Hui

Video Player Close

by Le Yanna, Bui Long, Nguyen Xuan

HANOI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese scholars and experts hailed China's efforts in combating corruption, urging for cooperation between the two countries in this respect.

China has been carrying out a wide-ranging and far-reaching anti-corruption campaign, Vo Dai Luoc, the former director of the Institute of World Economics and Politics of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, told Xinhua on Sunday.

The campaign covers various spheres including those as sensitive as the army and at all levels ranging from grassroots to high-level officials, the Vietnamese scholar said.

China's anti-corruption campaign targets not only "flies" (low-ranking corrupted officials), but also "tigers" (high-ranking corrupted officials), not only inside China but also outside the country, he said, referring to such campaigns as "Sky Net" and "Fox Hunt" which have caught more than 2,000 corrupted Chinese officials that had fled to dozens of other nations and regions.

"I am impressed by the decisive blows dealt to 'big tigers,'" Luoc said, adding that Vietnam should take vigorous measures similar to the Chinese ones to prevent and combat corruption in party organizations at the highest level as well as in the army.

China investigates cases of corruption very thoroughly, collecting persuasive evidences such as banknotes, gemstones and antiques, the scholar noted, saying that such evidences have facilitated the rapid, objective and transparent handling of corruption cases, which are really convincing.

The anti-corruption campaign has reinforced people's trust in the ruling Communist Party of China, which, Luoc said, is a useful lesson for Vietnam.

Do Tien Sam, the former director of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Chinese Studies, called for cooperation between Vietnam and China in fighting corruption.

As corruption concerns the survival of a party as well as a government, both Vietnamese and Chinese leaders have shown strong determination to hunt "tigers" and "flies", he told Xinhua.

Sam proposed taking concrete measures so that officials do not dare to, will not want to or cannot engage in corruption. "It will take time for us to implement measures which make officials not want to become corrupted."

No matter how hard it is, more effective measures should be taken to prevent power from being abused, party members as well as public servants from being corrupted and forming interest groups, Sam said.

"Vietnam and China can join hands in identifying signs of interest groups at ministries, localities and sectors, and then seeking measures to deal with them," he said.

"We can also share results of relevant researches and surveys, make comparisons about actual situations in Vietnam and China, helping the two parties, the two states succeed in their renewal and reform," said the scholar.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 14:30:14|Editor: Lu Hui

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A total of 5,763 officials have been held accountable for inadequate environmental protection in the latest round of national inspections, according to the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

From August to September this year, eight teams dispatched by central authorities reviewed local government work in the fourth round of inspections, which took place in Jilin, Zhejiang, Shandong, Hainan, Sichuan, Qinghai, Xinjiang and Tibet.

During the inspections, the teams received a staggering 59,848 public complaints. After sorting through them and accounting for duplicate reports, that number was whittled down to 39,586 cases, which were assigned to local authorities for further investigation.

As of Sept. 15, when the inspections were completed, local authorities had examined 35,039 cases, accounting for 88.5 percent of the total cases, and imposed fines totaling 465.8 million yuan (about 71.1 million U.S. dollars).

The inspections are part of China's campaign to fight pollution and environmental degradation as decades of growth have left the country with smog, polluted water and contaminated soil.

Inspectors monitor prominent environmental issues, oversee local improvements and push local government accountability.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:00:26|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

SEOUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's unification ministry said Monday that a humanitarian aid to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) should be treated separately from sanctions and pressure, reiterating its earlier position.

Unification Ministry spokesman Baek Tae-hyun told a press briefing that the government's basic stance was to keep the humanitarian aid to the vulnerable group of people in the DPRK, such as infants and pregnant women, regardless of political situations.

The spokesman said the Moon Jae-in government's basic stance was not different from the international society's as well as the ones held by former South Korean governments.

Tensions escalated on the Korean Peninsula after the DPRK's test last Friday of an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).

It followed Pyongyang's sixth nuclear test on Sept. 3, which was believed to have been the most powerful one ever conducted by the country.

The UN Security Council this month unanimously adopted a new resolution toughening sanctions on the DPRK, which curtails the country's oil imports, bans all of its textile exports and prohibits further work permits abroad for DPRK workers.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:05:30|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

FAIZABAD, Afghanistan, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- At least six militants were killed after Afghan army launched a search and cordon operation in the country's northern province of Badakhshan on Monday, an army source said.

"The Afghan National Army (ANA) carried out the raid in Yardar area of Baharak District early Monday morning. Up to now, six Taliban militants were killed in clashes that occurred during the operation," Ghulam Hazrat Karimi, spokesman of army Division 20 Pamir based in the northern region, told Xinhua.

The raid will cover several villages and outer sides of the district, east of provincial capital Faizabad, and will continue before the area is cleared of the militants, he said.

The army personnel retrieved two militants' bodies together with weapons as sporadic clashes continued in a number of villages there, he said.

"The operation was launched in close coordination with police and national intelligence agency personnel and the joint security forces will recapture areas in the district seized by militants earlier. New security checkpoints will also be installed in cleared areas," he said.

The raid will also target militants' bunkers and hideouts and will find out militants hiding mountainous area in Baharak and neighboring Wardoj districts, the spokesman added.

Wardoj has been controlled by the Taliban over the past two years.

The Afghan security forces have beefed up security operations against militants as the war-weary country is facing upsurges in attacks by Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants.

Local observers believe that the militants would intensify activities in summer to gain more territory and defame the government ahead of winter.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:15:33|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

SEOUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. forces on Monday dispatched four stealth fighter jets and two strategic bombers to the Korean Peninsula to conduct a joint bombing drill with South Korea's air force, local media reported.

An unidentified South Korean government source was quoted by Yonhap news agency as saying four F-35B stealth combat planes and two B-1B strategic bombers simultaneously made sorties to the peninsula earlier in the day.

The strategic U.S. weapons carried out a mock bombing exercise before returning to unidentified bases, the source was quoted as saying.

The U.S. bombers and combat planes staged a joint exercise with four F-15K fighter jets of South Korea's air force.

The mobilization of U.S. strategic military assets to the peninsula marked the first time since the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) detonated its sixth nuclear device on Sept. 3.

Pyongyang flew an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) over Japan last Friday.

It followed the unanimous approval by UN Security Council of a new resolution toughening sanctions on Pyongyang over its sixth nuclear detonation.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:15:34|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

MOSCOW, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied the Pentagon's allegations of a Russian Aerospace Force strike on the Syrian opposition near the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor, a spokesman of the ministry said Sunday.

"The priority targets for destruction are the terrorists' firing positions from which they are leading large-scale attacks on the Syrian forces," said the ministry's spokesman Igor Konashenkov, adding strikes on targets were based on reconnaissance information that is usually confirmed through multiple channels.

The Russian intelligence services did not find any clashes between Islamic State (IS) terrorists and any armed representatives of "third forces." Thus "only representatives of the international coalition themselves could explain how opposition members made their way into the IS forces in Deir ez-Zor without fighting, Konashenkov said.

The Russian spokesman also said that to avoid unnecessary escalation, command of the Russian forces in Syria using existing communication channels notified its U.S. counterparts in advance about the location of the military operation in Deir ez-Zor.

The Pentagon said in a statement on Saturday that Russian forces struck a target east of the Euphrates River in Syria near Deir ez-Zor, causing injuries to the Syrian opposition which is also known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The SDF, an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters, is supported by Washington.
(File photo) Flowers are exhibited during the fifth edition of International Floriculture Trade Expo in Nairobi, Kenya, on June 9, 2016. (Xinhua/Sun Ruibo)

by Ronald Njoroge and Wang Xiaopeng

NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's flower industry has tapped into the growing Chinese market in order to boost earnings of the sector, as part of the country's effort to diversify its markets of exporting.

The expanding Chinese economy has created demand for high quality flowers, Kenya Flower Council (KFC) CEO Jane Ngige told Xinhua in an interviews before and during the two-day Naivasha Horticultural Fair, one of the biggest events of the kind in Africa, which concluded on Saturday.

"Chinese consumers are willing to pay a premium price for high quality flowers. We therefore want to tap into the high value flower segment of Chinese market in order enhance our farmers earnings," Ngige said, adding that to meet the demand, the industry is seeking to move up the flower value chain amid rising costs of production.

Most of Kenyan flower exports reach the Asian nation via the Netherlands-based flower auctions, said Ngige, stressing that a number of Kenyan flower firms do send flowers directly to China but in limited quantities.

Kevin Liu is one of a few Chinese businessmen who specializes in exporting Kenyan flowers to China directly. He told Xinhua in an interview at the fair on Friday that his company, Kevin International, exported only 40 tonnes of flowers to China in 2015 when the business was initiated. In the following year, the sales had increased to 320 tonnes, most of which were roses.

Accoring to Liu, the future for Kenyan flowers in China is bright. Ngige also has confidence. She said the Kenyan flowers can be competitive in the Chinese market due to factors including the presence of direct air links between the two countries, though logistics remains a challenge for businesses due to the need to balance inward and outward cargo.

"The flower sector is holding discussions with airlines to come up with best arrangement that will ensure maximum revenue," Ngige said.

Kenya flower industry is producing a relatively stable volume in recent years. Last year, the East African nation exported approximately 133,000 tonnes of flowers, the bulk of which was absorbed by the European Union member states, according to the website of the KFC, which did not provide figures on export to each markets.

According to the ministry of agriculture, the flower sector earned Kenya about 690 million U.S. dollars in 2016, making it one of the leading sources of foreign exchange.

"Kenya produces world class flowers that compete globally due to its geographic location along the equator that has sunshine throughout the year as well as favorable soils," she said.

"In addition, Kenya's location allows it to export flowers seamlessly to all regions of the world," the KFC CEO said. Kenya is among four countries in the world that can produce high quality roses.

Ngige added that increased sales to China will help the industry diversify its export markets. "Currently the industry is very vulnerable as most of its produce is sold to a single economic bloc," she added.

Ngige said that there is urgent need for Kenya to find new markets due to increasing competition in the flower business, noting that Kenya's success in the flower industry has motivated other African nations to enter into the sector.

"In the past decade, we have seen the emergence of Ethiopia, Rwanda and Tanzania as flower exporters," she said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:35:38|Editor: An

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The flagship newspaper of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) ran a commentary stressing remembrance of the history of WWII to better safeguard world peace and justice.

The commentary, published under the byline of Tan Lin, ran in the PLA Daily on Monday, the 86th anniversary of the "Sept. 18 Incident," which marked the beginning of Japan's invasion of China.

Activities and events held by China to commemorate the anniversary are meant to remind people of the history of aggression by Japanese militarists and the Chinese people's suffering as well as the 14-year Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, according to the article.

Chinese people will always remember the compatriots slaughtered in the war, the war heroes and martyrs as well as the Chinese people's unyielding struggle against the aggressors, it said.

Remembrance of the war is not intended to carry on hatred but to caution the world against repeating the past tragedies and to better safeguard world peace, it said.

The commentary criticized the historical "amnesia" of some Japanese political organizations and politicians, which has resulted in the glossing over of history in textbooks, visiting or sending ritual offerings to the war-linked Yasukuni Shrine, and denial of the Nanjing Massacre, "comfort women" and Japan's war responsibility by right-wing forces.

The frivolous attitude of some Chinese people toward wartime history is also alarming, the commentary said.

Last month, two Chinese tourists were reportedly detained for performing Nazi salutes in Germany. Also in August, reports exposed two cases of Chinese dressing in Japanese wartime military uniforms and posing at public sites.

Only by remembering history and pain can people draw lessons from history and make progress in upholding justice, the article said.

The article further called for efforts to consolidate national defense and build a strong army for the Chinese nation's survival and security.

Since spring, Chinese textbooks have included the phrase "14-year Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression," rather than "eight-year," as an official acknowledgment that Japan invaded northeast China on Sept. 18, 1931, marking the start of the war.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:50:44|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

KABUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Afghan government has launched a comprehensive plan to expand the cultivation of saffron next year, in the latest move to boost domestic economy in the militancy-hit country, reported local newspaper Daily Outlook Afghanistan on Monday.

Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock will take measures to expand saffron cultivated areas to 3,000 hectares of land across the country in 2018, Lotfullah Rashid, spokesman of the ministry, was quoted by the paper as saying.

The saffron cultivation has expanded to 31 of the country's 34 provinces from only one province a few years ago.

In 2017, about 6.5 tons of saffron was produced so far against 6 tons last year, according to the report.

Afghan saffron in terms of quality has been named as the world's best by the International Taste and Quality Institute in Brussels last year.

In local Afghan markets, 1 kg of saffron is priced at 25,000 afghanis (375 U.S. dollars) to 110,000 afghanis (1,654 U.S. dollars) depending on the quality, according to officials.

The Afghan government has taken measures to invest in the agricultural sector to further create job opportunities and to boost economy.

Three decades of war had a devastating impact on the agriculture sector in the landlocked country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 15:50:47|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

SEOUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's foreign ministry said Monday that it named a new top envoy to the long-stalled six-party talks on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.

Lee Do-hoon, 55, a former presidential secretary for foreign affairs, was named as special representative for Korean Peninsula's peace and security affairs, according to Seoul's foreign ministry.

Lee will represent South Korea in the six-way talks, which involve South Korea, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), China, the United States, Russia and Japan.

The aid-for-disarmament dialogue, initiated in Beijing in August 2003, has been stalled since December 2008.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 16:16:10|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

CAIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Conditions similar to real battles were created in the Egyptian-U.S. joint drill "Bright Star 2017," which are being conducted at Egypt's Mohamed Naguib Military Base and will last until Sept. 20, local media reported on Monday.

The joint military exercise continued on Sunday with the conclusion of the first stage which included training of joint command centers in the presence of top brass.

Tactical tasks were fulfilled to assess the ability of the participating troops on joint action and to take suitable decisions.

Bright Star is seen as one of the most important joint military exercises between the armed forces of Egypt and the United States as they reflect strong military cooperation between the two countries.

The drills are meant to enhance strategic and security relations between the United States and Egypt.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 16:26:15|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

CAIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Arab Parliament hailed a declaration made by Hamas movement to end Palestinian internal division and push for reconciliation, local media reported on Monday.

Arab Parliament Speaker Mishaal bin Fahm al Salami on Sunday welcomed a declaration made by Hamas movement to dissolve the administrative committee in the Gaza Strip and to call the Palestinian accord government to come to the enclave to carry out its duties.

The movement, which also approved holding general elections, responded to Egypt's call to hold dialogue with its rival Fatah and form a national unity government.

In a statement issued on Sunday, al Salami termed as positive and key the step of Hamas.

"The declaration paves the way for a Palestinian comprehensive national dialogue and is considered a step on the right track towards restoring Palestinian national unity," the statement read.

The speaker further stressed that the declaration came as a response to Egypt's efforts exerted to bring the views closer and heal the rift between the Palestinians.

He hailed Egypt's endeavors in the Palestinian national reconciliation file and expressed the Arab Parliament's support to it.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 16:26:16|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

HANOI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A total of 1,234 cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) branded Mercedes-Benz are being recalled from now to September 2020 to fix a fault which can lead to overheating, even fires, Mercedes-Benz Vietnam said on Monday.

The recall covers certain C-Class, E-Class and CLA cars and GLA and GLC SUVs produced by German firm Daimler between February 2014 and February 2017.

The German automaker announced in March that it would recall about 1 million Mercedes-Benz cars and SUVs worldwide because a starter part can overheat and cause fires.

The firm said for some reason, the engine and transmission would not turn over, a current limiter in the starter motor could overheat from repeated attempts to start the vehicles, which could cause the current limiter to overheat.

In a worst-case scenario, overheating of the starter current limiter could cause surrounding components to melt and potentially create the risk of fire.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh (R) and Hamas Gaza Chief Yahya Al-Sinwar attend a ceremony announcing a new policy document, in Gaza City May 1, 2017. (Reuters Photo)

CAIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Arab Parliament hailed a declaration made by Hamas movement to end Palestinian internal division and push for reconciliation, local media reported on Monday.

Arab Parliament Speaker Mishaal bin Fahm al Salami on Sunday welcomed a declaration made by Hamas movement to dissolve the administrative committee in the Gaza Strip and to call the Palestinian accord government to come to the enclave to carry out its duties.

The movement, which also approved holding general elections, responded to Egypt's call to hold dialogue with its rival Fatah and form a national unity government.

In a statement issued on Sunday, al Salami termed as positive and key the step of Hamas.

"The declaration paves the way for a Palestinian comprehensive national dialogue and is considered a step on the right track towards restoring Palestinian national unity," the statement read.

The speaker further stressed that the declaration came as a response to Egypt's efforts exerted to bring the views closer and heal the rift between the Palestinians.

He hailed Egypt's endeavors in the Palestinian national reconciliation file and expressed the Arab Parliament's support to it.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 16:46:28|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela (L) and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi inaugurate the Chinese embassy in Panama City, Panama, on Sept. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Dan Hang)

PANAMA CITY, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- The national flag of the People's Republic of China was hoisted for the first time on Sunday at the inauguration ceremony of the Chinese embassy in Panama, a milestone in the two countries' diplomatic relations which were established in June.

From early morning, guests from the Chinese community, Panamanian locals, business leaders as well as other important figures from the two nations came to witness the historic moment.

The event was chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and President of Panama Juan Carlos Varela.

"The Chinese embassy in Panama will be the new home for the Chinese community and Chinese companies. It will provide them with support and warmth when they have needs or find themselves in difficulty," said Wang to the assembled crowd, after the anthems of China and Panama were played.

Wang also expressed his gratitude to all those who made the establishment of diplomatic relations possible, such as the Chinese community which first arrived in Panama about 160 years ago.

He said that the two countries were charting down a new long-term path which "will bring hope, cooperation and mutual benefits," adding that although there were delays in the China-Panama relationship, "bilateral ties have finally entered the correct state for the times."

"History will remember that the decision to establish diplomatic relations between Panama and China met the fundamental, long-term interest of both countries," said Wang in the speech.

President Varela also proclaimed the "opportunity to be the Panamanian president" with the honor of "officially inaugurating the Chinese embassy."

He stated that it was the will of both countries to build a "relationship of trust," accompanied by dialogue and mutual benefits.

Varela vowed to "always seek common good and prosperity for our peoples."

After the ceremony, the participants of the event expressed their joy at the start of diplomatic relations and the opening of the Chinese embassy.

"This is a happy day for Panama and for China," Isabel de Saint Malo, Panama's vice-president and foreign minister, told Xinhua.

Eloy Cong, a representative of the China-Panama Association, said that this was the "start of a good relationship and a good start for honesty and commitment between the two sides."

Rafael Bandeira, Bolivia's ambassador to Panama, congratulated China and Panama in the name of his country.

"This is an act of justice for the (Chinese) migrants who have continued to contribute to Panama's economic development ... this was necessary for international relations, it will not only benefit Panama but also the entire region by continuing to build integral development, and the integration of regional economies," said Bandeira.

Wang arrived in Panama on Saturday, where he was received by Varela.

The two sides agreed to advance the over 20 ongoing negotiations linked to commercial and tourism exchanges. Other deals are being discussed, related to investments, merchant cargo shipping, energy and transportation.

In June, Panama became the second Central American country to establish diplomatic relations with China, after Costa Rica in 2007.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 17:01:38|Editor: An

Video Player Close

ANKARA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Turkey started a military drill near the border with Iraq on Monday, Turkish General Staff said in a written statement.

The drill comes just a week before the Iraqi Kurdistan independence referendum on Sept. 25, which was strongly opposed by Turkish government.

In the brief statement on its website, the Turkish Armed Forces said exercises have begun in the Silopi and Habur areas of southeastern Sanliurfa province.

The area sits to the north of the Syrian and Iraqi borders and contains the Habur border crossing, which provides the Kurdish Regional Government with its main access point to the outside world.

The statement also said the drill is part of Turkey's anti-terror operations launched in the border region.

In a televised interview last Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said KRG's independence referendum is "very wrong" and Turkey would not allow any moves that would threaten Iraq's territorial integrity.

Erdogan will meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi in New York at the upcoming UN meetings, in a bid to discuss efforts to end the referendum.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 17:11:40|Editor: An

Video Player Close

HONG KONG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Treasury Markets Summit 2017, jointly organized by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Treasury Markets Association, was held on Monday in China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The summit's panels focused on various facets of Hong Kong's financial and treasury markets, including the latest trend of global economic developments and regulatory changes, the opportunities arising from the opening up of the Chinese mainland's financial markets, and the changes brought by Fintech to treasury operations.

In his keynote address, Norman Chan, chief executive of the HKMA, shared his view on the importance to build Hong Kong as a brand for financial services.

Chan emphasized that building a brand requires good product as well as good marketing. It is crucial that financial institutions and practitioners have to be technically competent, and also need to uphold high ethical standards in order to gain the trust and respect of customers.

He said Hong Kong's financial sector, including the institutions, practitioners and regulators must work closely together to make Hong Kong the preferred brand in financial services in Asia.

The summit was attended by over 350 local and overseas participants, including representatives from regulatory authorities, government officials, treasury market practitioners, asset managers as well as senior executives and professionals from banks, other financial institutions and corporates.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 17:21:45|Editor: An

Video Player Close

TOKYO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Typhoon Talim left a trail of destruction in its wake after making landfall on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido and buffeting both eastern and western coasts of the country, local media reported Monday.

Japan's public broadcaster NHK quoting local police and fire officials said that the typhoon has left two people dead and three others missing, while at least 35 people have been injured nationwide over the weekend.

According to latest local reports Monday, mudslides triggered by Talim have led to some 700 homes in the western prefecture of Oita being isolated.

In the cities of Saiki and Tsukumi, 1,264 people have been cut off from roads and transportation networks and emergency water supplies had to be delivered to the areas as a temporary measure to sustain those who remain stranded, local media reported.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has maintained advisories for areas that are far from the center of the storm in the north of Japan, stating that winds could widen when the typhoon becomes an extra tropical depression.

The weather agency said that Talim will likely be downgraded to an extra tropical depression on Monday night as it heads off Hokkaido and towards the Russian island of Sakhalin in the Northern Pacific Ocean.

The JMA warned, however, that torrential rain and strong gusts could still be expected through Monday evening in wide areas across Japan's north. In Hokkaido particularly, up to 80 mm of rain per hour could be expected.

Talim was clocked at a speed of 65 km per hour around 120 km south-southwest of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, earlier on Monday and had an atmospheric pressure of 975 hectopascals.

The typhoon was packing winds of up to 162 kph, the weather agency said.

In Kagawa Prefecture, located in the northeast of Shikoku Island, an 86-year-old woman was killed when her home was leveled by a landslide, local media reported.

In Kochi Prefecture, also on Shikoku Island, a 60-year-old man was found dead inside a car sunken in a river, media reports said Monday.

Three men are still unaccounted for in Kochi and Oita prefectures. They went missing after they went to check on their local businesses, reports said.

The 71-year-old man in Oita Prefecture is thought to have been swept away by a swollen river, local police officials said, as searches near his home continued.

On Sunday, more than 800 flights were canceled as a result of the typhoon and 272 flights scheduled for Monday were also suspended.

Japan's Shinkansen bullet train operations were also severely affected by the typhoon, and while many services have since resumed, the Hokkaido bullet train has had its services halted, according to its operator Hokkaido Railway Company.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 17:36:52|Editor: An

Video Player Close

JERUSALEM, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Israeli officials said Monday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. President Donald Trump alongside the UN General Assembly to discuss Iran nuclear deal, Israeli Army Radio reported.

Israeli officials said Netanyahu will try to persuade Trump to retract U.S. support for the nuclear deal between the world powers and Iran.

"The most important thing in the upcoming meeting is demanding the cancellation of the nuclear deal," said Israeli cabinet minister, Yisrael Katz, who is also the minister of transportation.

In an interview with Army Radio, Katz said that "the lesson from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea shows negotiations and agreements with dictatorships do not prevent the development of nuclear weapons."

Netanyahu is expected to use his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to reiterate his position that Iran poses a threat to the stability of the Middle East.

The hardline politician has been a vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, which was signed two years ago in Vienne between Iran and the world powers.

Israel has been worried over Iran's expansive role in Syria and Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbors.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pictured during an addresses to the media at Los Pinos presidential residence in Mexico City, Mexico, September 14, 2017. (Reuters Photo)

JERUSALEM, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Israeli officials said Monday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. President Donald Trump alongside the UN General Assembly to discuss Iran nuclear deal, Israeli Army Radio reported.

Israeli officials said Netanyahu will try to persuade Trump to retract U.S. support for the nuclear deal between the world powers and Iran.

"The most important thing in the upcoming meeting is demanding the cancellation of the nuclear deal," said Israeli cabinet minister, Yisrael Katz, who is also the minister of transportation.

In an interview with Army Radio, Katz said that "the lesson from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea shows negotiations and agreements with dictatorships do not prevent the development of nuclear weapons."

Netanyahu is expected to use his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to reiterate his position that Iran poses a threat to the stability of the Middle East.

The hardline politician has been a vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, which was signed two years ago in Vienne between Iran and the world powers.

Israel has been worried over Iran's expansive role in Syria and Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbors.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 17:56:58|Editor: An

Video Player Close

WELLINGTON, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Women's Minister Paula Bennett is encouraging all New Zealanders to take some time on Tuesday, Suffrage Day, to reflect on women's rights in New Zealand.

"I'm so proud to live in a country that was the first in the world to give women the vote. I hope all New Zealanders take time to reflect on that tomorrow and just how far we've come," Bennett said in a release on Monday.

The government has continued to support women, Bennett said, adding that in the public sector, 45 percent of people on state sector boards are women, 46 percent of whom are in senior leadership roles in the public service.

New Zealand has introduced pay equity principles and settled a 2 billion-NZ dollar (1.46 billion-U.S. dollar) pay equity claim for 55,000 care and support workers, she said.

"We still have so much more to achieve though. We have a 9.4 percent Gender Pay Gap, which recently reduced from 12 percent," Bennett said, adding that they are working with the private sector to encourage them to measure their Gender Pay Gap and to work to reduce it.

"I'm often asked why we have a Ministry for Women and not a Ministry for Men. My answer is simple: when we no longer have a Gender Pay Gap and women aren't predominantly the victims of domestic and sexual violence, I'll happily shut it down," she said.

"Until then, we should continue to focus on improving the lives on women and girls in this country," said the minister, adding that anniversaries like the Suffrage Day are the perfect time to reflect on that.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:07:02|Editor: An

Video Player Close

DOHA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Qatar and Britain has signed a letter of intent to buy 24 Typhoon fighter jets, the state Qatar news agency (QNA) reported on Monday.

The agreement, signed on Sunday by Qatar's Defense Minister Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah and Britain's Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, aims to strengthen cooperation and mutual support in the military and technical fields between the two countries, the report said.

Fallon said that this agreement will be the first major defense contract with Qatar, one of Britain's strategic partners.

"This is an important moment in our defense relationship and the basis for even closer defense cooperation between our two countries," he added.

The two sides had a meeting afterwards, discussing aspects of cooperation in the military field, especially in the field of combating terrorism and violent extremism, as well as the regional issues.

On June 15, Qatar and the United States had signed a deal for the purchase of F-15 fighter jets with an initial cost of 12 billion U.S. dollars.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:17:10|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Monday chaired a meeting reviewing a report on the implementation of the eight-point frugality code in the past five years.

The report focuses on the efforts of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee in implementing the eight-point frugality code, which was introduced in 2012, and the political bureau's role in leading the Party to improve work styles.

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the eight-point rule has been important in safeguarding the Party's authority, enhancing its cohesion and tightening the flesh and blood ties between the Party and the people, according to a statement released after the meeting.

The statement also asked leading officials at all levels to take the lead in overcoming formalism, bureaucratism, hedonism and extravagance, saying that efforts should be made to address both symptoms and root causes of unwanted work styles.

The meeting, held by the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, also studied a draft work report by the 18th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection to be submitted to the upcoming 19th CPC National Congress.

It revealed the practices and explorations, achievements as well as experiences of discipline inspection departments at all levels in comprehensively promoting strict Party governance under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee.

The statement called for upholding the leadership of the Party, promoting clean governance, and deepening the anti-corruption battle to pave way for achieving the two centennial goals and the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation.
Participants take a selfie with the new brand smart phone called Tecno Spark Light Up during its launch in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Sept. 16, 2017. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopia's most popular Chinese mobile brand TECNO has launched its newest Smartphone "Spark" at a colorful ceremony in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa.

Mohammed Hasseni, Marketing Manager of TECNO Mobile Ethiopia, said over the weekend his company launched the new smartphone product to maintain TECNO's dominant position in the lucrative Ethiopian market.

"TECNO is special from other brands because of the price and quality ratio, TECNO mobile has the best quality with the best affordable price," added Hasseni.

Li Yanhong, manager at sales department of TECNO Ethiopia, added that the new smartphone targets Ethiopia's predominantly young population.

"TECNO Spark will focus on the middle end customers of younger demographic. We give them very nice products with affordable price, this is the advantage of our new mobile phone," said Li.

While Smartphones are becoming popular in Ethiopia with young people preferring them especially for their camera quality, price is a big issue for a still largely poor country.

Samrawit Arega, sales promoter for TECNO mobile, contends that with her company the issue of price affordability for quality product takes priority over the need to make profit.

TECNO Spark represents a low cost mobile handset, with good price having 13 megapixel bi-cameras, 13 Gigabytes storage capacity and the latest 7.0 android technology system, said Arega. The model sells at around 133 U.S. dollars.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:47:18|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong receives an interview with Xinhuanet, Xinhua's official website, in Singapore, Sept. 16, 2017. (Xinhuanet/Wang Yingyao)

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said that the Belt and Road Initiative of China is positive to the world since it can help further integrate China into regional and international economic systems while boosting growth in other countries.

"We deem the Belt and Road Initiative as positive," Lee said Saturday in an exclusive interview with Xinhuanet, Xinhua's official website, prior to his official visit to China scheduled for Sept. 19-21.

China's continuous economic growth has made China an increasingly larger and more important part in the international system, he said.

"The Initiative will help foster closer cooperation among China and its neighboring countries as well as its trade partners in Europe, Asia and even Africa," he added.

The Belt and Road Initiative, put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, is aimed at building the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road through concerted efforts of all related countries to benefit all participants by promoting unimpeded trade, financial integration, infrastructure inter-connectivity and closer people-to-people exchanges.

In the interview, Lee said the Initiative-related cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure investments, trade and tourism can help further "integrate China into regional and international economic systems while greatly boosting the prosperity and development in other countries."

In his opinion, the Initiative can help China make more and better contributions to global economic and trade cooperation as well as international relations.

"I think this is not only good to China, but also exerts positive influence to the whole international system," he said.

Singapore's cooperation with China concerning the Belt and Road Initiative, Lee said, is focused on infrastructure inter-connectivity, financial projects and third-party programs such as personnel training, which Singapore believes can combine advantages of both sides.

For example, Singapore can become a launchpad for Chinese companies to march into international markets, and they can make the best of Singapore's trade and service facilities as a financial center and transport hub, he said.

As a coordinator of China-ASEAN ties and the rotating chair of ASEAN the next year, Lee said, Singapore will spare no efforts to facilitate the relationship between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and enhance cooperation among member states of ASEAN.

"If the overall relations are good, economic and trade programs will develop naturally. Otherwise, the mutually beneficial cooperation would be harmed," he said.

In fact, economic and trade cooperation between China and ASEAN is smooth, he said, adding that China is the largest trade partner for most of the ASEAN member states and their cooperation covers various fields.

On bilateral cooperation, Lee said that it must keep up with the times as China develops very fast.

"In different development phases, the focus of our cooperation must adapt to changes," he said.

The latest cooperation projects between the two governments are three flagship joint projects, namely Suzhou Industrial Park, Tianjin Eco-City and the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative.

The Suzhou Industrial Park, the largest cooperative project between China and Singapore, covers an area of 278 square km and accounts for only 3.4 percent of the city's land area, has created 15 percent of the city's GDP.

The Tianjin Eco-City was designed to become an international eco-city model with a population of 350,000 and all green buildings in 10 years, featuring its new industries including movies and animation, financial, new energy and green industries, as well as Internet industry.

China's southwestern city of Chongqing became the operation center of the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity on Jan. 8, 2016 to pilot cooperation in fields ranging from financial services, aviation, transportation, and logistics to information communications technology.

"We hope it can work as a model in the development of western China," Lee said, referring to the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity, popularly known as the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative.

On China's huge changes over the past decades, Lee praised China's economic success, technological achievements and progress in people's well-being, saying that a successful, prosperous and self-confident China is also beneficial to the whole world.

Related:

Singapore has great expectations for inter-connectivity cooperation with China: PM

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said that Singapore greatly expects the newly-launched project with China on inter-connectivity cooperation to play a demonstrative role in the development of western China. Full story

Singapore looks forward to Chinese plans in bidding for high speed railway project: PM
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:57:28|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

MANILA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- After almost four months of fierce fighting, Philippine authorities said on Monday that the battle to recapture the southern Philippine city of Marawi from the pro-Islamic State (IS) fighters is drawing to an end.

Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told a news conference that he believes that the 118-day conflict will end soon.

"We just need to clear an area of about 10 hectares which are still under the control of the militants," he said.

Chief of staff of the armed forces of the Philippines Gen. Eduardo Ano said three of the five jihadist leaders of the militants that attacked Marawi in May have already been killed.

The military said there are an estimated 60 to 80 IS fighters left after nearly 700 of them have been killed in the ongoing conflict.

At least 10 Malaysian and Indonesian militants are also helping the local Maute terrorists, Ano said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:57:31|Editor: Xiang Bo

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A new anti-telecom fraud app can identify phone numbers used for fraud and filter out phishing websites.

The app, co-developed by the anti-telecom crime office of the State Council and e-commerce giant Alibaba, is being exhibited at an Internet security event held in Shanghai from Sept. 16 to 24.

The annual event was first held in 2014 and is part of the country's effort to guarantee cyberspace security.

The Central Leading Group for Cyberspace Affairs was established in 2014 and has enacted a cybersecurity law and relevant regulations, tightened supervision and cracked down on online crime.

"Cybersecurity consists of the security of the people as well as the nation," said Shen Yi, deputy director of the Cyberspace Governance Study Center at Fudan University.

He said Internet security could not just be evaluated by technical indicators but also had to bring public benefit.

China's web users are enjoying a cleaner Internet environment since various governmental departments have acted to clean up cyberspace.

In a recent campaign led by the National Office Against Pornographic and Illegal Publications, an investigative team seized 50 suspects, destroyed 118 websites and took down 913 online billboards that were pornographic or traded in personal information.

The office closed 73 illegal live streaming platforms in the first half of this year and imposed life bans on 1,879 live streamers who severely violated regulations.

In 2016 alone, Chinese law enforcement confiscated over 16 million illegal publications and banned more than 14,000 harmful websites.

Internet forums are also a target of the clean up. The Cyberspace Administration of China published a list of rules in August, requiring real name registration on bulletin boards.

A number of Internet users believe it will contain the spread of obscenity, violence, terrorism and false information. The regulations will take effect on Oct. 1.

In order to standardize the way Internet companies collect, store, use and transfer private information, several government departments have examined the privacy policies of ten popular domestic Internet products and services.

The move aims to prevent criminals from illegally obtaining personal information from the Internet. Internet companies are also playing an active part in the fight against cyber crimes.

This May, a piece of malicious software called "WannaCry" attacked computers worldwide, endangering cyberspace security. Internet security companies, including Qihoo 360, Tencent and Kingsoft Security, have since increased security services.

A total of 1,116 "Internet police offices" have been set up by the Ministry of Public Security and Internet companies, including Baidu.com and Tencent.com, in an attempt to help investigate illegal information posted on their websites, as well as collect information from the public.

A total of 21 universities have established cybersecurity colleges, and China plans to build four to six international-standard Internet security institutes from 2017 to 2027.

By 2014, the number of China's Internet security personnel needed in key industry information systems and information infrastructure was 700,000, and the figure will double by 2020, according to Feng Huamin, vice president of Beijing Electronic Science and Technology Institute.

But more effort is needed to educate cybersecurity professionals. As of last year, China only had 143 Internet security majors spread over 126 universities, which is approximately 10 percent of technology universities.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:57:33|Editor: Xiang Bo

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China hopes that concerned parities can understand and respect the emotions of the people and support normal exchanges between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK), Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said Monday.

Lu's comment came after ROK President Moon Jae-in suggested that his country could go ahead with humanitarian aid to the DPRK "regardless of political situations," despite Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's request for consideration of the timing of the proposed aid.

"All the UN Security Council resolutions that imposed sanctions on the DPRK, including the newly adopted Resolution 2375, have stated clearly that they are not intended to have a negative effect on the livelihoods and humanitarian needs of the people there," Lu said at a daily press briefing.

People from the DPRK and the ROK belong to the same ethnic group, and China has always supported the two countries in strengthening exchanges, improving ties and promoting reconciliation, he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 18:57:35|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

WELLINGTON, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A trade agreement with Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Peru could be worth 10,000 jobs to New Zealand and will give kiwis unprecedented access to fast-growing Latin American markets, New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay said on Monday.

This comes as McClay calls for public submissions on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the Pacific Alliance countries.

Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Peru combined have 221 million consumers and a GDP of 3.85 trillion U.S. dollars, which is equivalent to the world's sixth largest economy, McClay said in a statement.

"This is an important market for us now, and we want the public and the business community to consider how they might take advantage of the increased opportunities for both trade and investment that will result from an FTA," he said.

Increasing trade and business links with the Pacific Alliance will also advance the prospect of New Zealand serving as a trading bridge between South America and Southeast Asia, the minister said.

The government will be pushing hard for "a high-quality agreement," he said, adding that "it's important we hear from New Zealanders about what they would like to see prioritized and progressed during negotiations."

Negotiations with the Pacific Alliance will begin in the coming months and are expected to progress swiftly, McClay said, adding that public submissions are due by Oct. 16.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:02:37|Editor: Xiang Bo

Video Player Close

HONG KONG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region announced Monday that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to strengthen meteorological collaboration between the two sides.

The MoU was signed Monday in Bangkok by HKO Director Shun Chi-ming and Director-General of the TMD Wanchai Sakudomchai, the HKO said in a press release.

The HKO and the TMD have a long history of cooperation, which can be dated back to 1970 with the establishment of the Hong Kong-Bangkok circuit for the international exchange of meteorological information under the Global Telecommunications System of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), according to the HKO.

At the high-level meeting before the signing ceremony, both parties agreed to pursue collaboration in a number of areas, including windshear detection, thunderstorm nowcasting, coordination in the issuance of significant weather warnings for aviation, and the training of meteorological personnel, it added.

To foster international cooperation, the HKO has signed MoUs in the past several years with the meteorological services of a number of countries, including France, South Korea and the Philippines, according to the HKO.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:12:41|Editor: Xiang Bo

Video Player Close

by Maria Spiliopoulou

ATHENS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- "We are proud hosting this treasure of Chinese culture," Nicholas Theocarakis, chairman of the Athens Concert Hall, told Xinhua after watching Female Generals of the Yang Family, a classic masterpiece of Beijing Opera.

Artists from China National Peking Opera Company won the admiration and the warm applause of the Greek audience through their performance Sunday night at the concert hall, one of the most impressive venues of its kind in Greece and the world.

The electrifying performance was part of a series of events staged this year for the 2017 Greece-China Year of Cultural Exchanges and Culture Industry Cooperation.

It was the first time ever that the play was hosted in Greece with Greek subtitles.

The story of the strong and courageous Chinese women who safeguarded their homeland after their husbands, sons and fathers were killed heroically in battle moved the Greek spectators.

The impressive costumes and scenery, as well as the flawless singing, dancing and martial arts and acrobatics performance were also praised by the audience.

Like Theocarakis, spectators said they appreciated the exemplary sample of the Beijing Opera which is included since 2010 in UNESCO's world Intangible Cultural Heritage list and are eager to learn more about Chinese culture.

"I think the artists were excellent. We do not often have the chance to watch such events. I look forward to learning more (about Chinese culture) through such shows and events," Vassiliki Ligri told Xinhua.

Ligri and her friend who bought the tickets for the show were also impressed with the colorful Chinese traditional costumes used in opera which were put on display at the Athens Concert Hall on Sunday.

"Female Generals of the Yang Family is a very attractive piece of traditional Beijing Opera. It features Sheng (male role), Dan (female role), Jing (painted face), Chou (clown) -- all the four main type of characters in Beijing Opera, fully representing the opera's artistically charming," Liu Yupu, deputy director of China National Peking Opera Company told Xinhua.

"Greece is the birthplace of European civilization while China is one of the four ancient civilizations, thus I think it is our obligation to bring the quintessence of Chinese culture to the Greek audience," Liu said.

Zou Xiaoli, Chinese ambassador to Greece thanked the artists for overcoming the barriers of culture, language and nation, contributing greatly to the Greece-China Year of Cultural Exchanges

During 2017 Greece and China have organized several events to promote cultural exchange between the two peoples along cooperation in many other areas.

China is the honored country in the recently held 82nd Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) which is the largest on terms of participants and visitors in the past decade, according to the Greek organizers.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras hailed Sino-Greek cooperation during the opening of China's pavilion at TIF in the northern city port of Thessaloniki.

Addressing the event, he praised China's Belt and Road initiative, reiterated Greece's strong support and underlined the key role Chinese investments hold in Greece's efforts to overcome the debt crisis and restore growth.

"We will quickly move forward, and via the collaboration with Chinese enterprises and Chinese investments here, to transform Greece into an international transport, trade and energy hub," the Greek prime minister said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:22:43|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Singapore and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Monday on the sidelines of Singapore International Cyber Week 2017 to strengthen cyber security cooperation between the two countries.

The MOC covers cyber security cooperation in key areas including regular policy dialogues, information exchanges, collaborations to enhance cybersecurity awareness, joint regional capacity building efforts, as well as sharing of best practices between both countries, according to a press release from the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore.

"Singapore and Japan have been working closely together on various cyber security initiatives at both the bilateral and multilateral levels," said CSA's Chief Executive David Koh, adding that the MOC will serve to bring their cooperation and relations a step further.

Prior to the signing of the MOC with Japan, CSA had previously signed six Memoranda of Understanding with Australia, France, India, the Netherlands, Britain, the United States, and a Joint Declaration on cyber security cooperation with Germany.

The Singapore International Cyber Week 2017 will have an opening plenary on Tuesday morning. But part of the event, the second ASEAN ministerial conference on cyber security, was held on Monday and had a special session that saw the participation of ministers and senior officials from five ASEAN dialogue partners, namely Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and the United States.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:22:45|Editor: An

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Japan should act correctly towards an application for records of comfort women to be listed as UNESCO heritage, instead of threatening not to pay its UNESCO membership fees, a Chinese spokesperson said Monday.

If the submitted documents are approved for the UNESCO Memory of the World Register next month, domestic pressure for Japan to cancel payment of its UNESCO membership fees will grow, according to Japanese media.

The application for UNESCO heritage status submitted by more than 10 groups from China, the Republic of Korea and other countries and regions will "allow the world to fully understand the brutality of the war of agrression, remember history, cherish peace and defend human dignity," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a regular news briefing.

The move serves the purposes of the UNESCO, he said.

"The members of international organizations are obliged to pay their membership fees on time and in full. China demands Japan reflect on its history of aggression, and take a correct attitude towards and do not smear or meddle with the application," Lu said.

Forceful recruitment of comfort women, or sex slaves, was a grave crime committed by the Japanese militarism during WWII. There is solid evidence and no room for denying that, Lu said.

He said that Japan should handle the issue properly and in a responsible way to gain trust from its Asian neighbors and the international community.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:27:50|Editor: An

Video Player Close

SHANGHAI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) plans to acquire a 74 percent stake in Indian injectables manufacturer Gland Pharma for nearly 1.1 billion U.S. dollars.

Last year, Fosun offered to buy 86 percent of the firm, a deal worth up to 1.26 billion U.S. dollars.

The current offer includes a payment capped at 25 million dollars for Gland's sales of Enoxaparin in the United States, according to a statement from Fosun on Sunday.

Founded in 1978, Hyderabad-based Gland Pharma is the first company in India to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for injectable liquid medicines. The U.S. and European markets account for the majority of its revenue.

Fosun Pharma's chairman Chen Qiyu said the deal would strengthen the Chinese pharmaceutical firm's global presence.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:48:00|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

TOKYO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Japan's opposition camp on Monday took aim at Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's possible decision to dissolve the lower house later this month and call a snap election.

Senior government and ruling party officials said a day earlier that Abe plans to call a general election most likely on Oct. 22 and conveyed his plan by phone to Natsuo Yamaguchi, leader of the Komeito party, the junior coalition partner of Abe's ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

The phone conversation took place while Abe was in Russia, a senior ruling party official said.

Local media reported that Abe intends to dissolve parliament on Sept. 28 to pave the way for an election on Oct. 22

Abe told reporters prior to departing Japan to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York that he will decide whether to dissolve the lower house when he returns.

"I'll refrain from answering each and every question about a dissolution of parliament, but I'd like to decide when I return to Japan," the prime minister was quoted as saying at Tokyo's Haneda Airport before his departure.

The opposition camp has criticized Abe, however, with some accusing the Japanese leader as trying to escape from the influence-peddling scandals he is currently implicated in and trying to stay in power.

"Abe is simply fleeing from cronyism accusations," main opposition Democratic Party leader Seiji Maehara told reporters, referring to allegations Abe helped a friend open a new veterinary school and was implicated in a cut-price land deal involving a nationalist school operator.

Maehara was suggesting that Abe calling a snap election was one way of avoiding a grilling in parliament over the scandals, which saw senior members of his party quit and his support rate tumble to historic lows.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who has been linked to the formation of a new national party, said that she could not understand the "logic" and "purpose" behind Abe's possible move to call a snap election.

Political analysts, meanwhile, have said that Abe may be looking to capitalize on the main opposition Democratic Party's weak position at the moment, following a number of defections from the party by lawmakers and a high profile scandal that rocked the party just after Maehara took the helm at the beginning of September.

Analysts here have also said that a recovering support rate for his cabinet may also be prompting Abe to call a snap election, with the hopes of consolidating his party's grip on power in parliament, while not giving Koike enough time to properly carry out her objectives.

"There is also a real chance that a snap election would lead to his undoing. Calling a premature election more than a year ahead of the end of the term is purely on the basis of self-interested political calculation," Koichi Nakano, a professor of political science at Sophia University in Tokyo, was quoted as saying on the matter.

A lower house election must be held by December 2018. This is when the four-year terms of current lower house lawmakers expire.

However, the prime minister has the authority to dissolve the lower chamber and call a general election at will.

Abe dissolved the lower house of parliament in November 2014 and thereafter led the ruling coalition to a sweeping victory in the following election in December.

If Abe goes ahead with his plan to call a snap election, three by-elections that have been slated to take place on Oct. 22 would be replaced by the general election.
Supporters of Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) shout slogans during a protest against the independence referendum in northern Iraq, in Istanbul, Turkey, September 17, 2017. (Reuters Photo)

BAGHDAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Iraq's supreme court on Monday issued a verdict to stop the independence referendum in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region slated for Sept. 25, a court spokesman said.

Head of the court's media office Ayas al-Samouk said in a statement that the order was issued after deliberation and "in the presence of all of its members."

On Sept. 12, the Iraqi parliament voted to reject the independence referendum of the Kurdish region, but the Kurdish lawmakers walked out of the session in protest of the decision.

On June 7, the Kurdish President Masoud Barzani announced his intention to hold a referendum on the independence of the Kurdish region from Iraq on Sept. 25.

The independence of Kurdistan is expected to be opposed by some countries because it would threaten the integrity of Iraq and because it comes as the Iraqi forces are in fight against terrorism, including the Islamic State militant group.

In addition, the neighboring countries of Turkey, Iran and Syria see that such a step would threaten their territorial integrity, as larger populations of Kurds live in those countries.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:53:06|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

BAKU, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Azerbaijani and Turkish air forces launched joint tactical drills code-named "TurAz Qartali 2017" here on Monday, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said in a statement.

Dozens of Azerbaijani and Turkish military aircraft were taking part in the drills, including MiG-29, F-16, Su-25 and C-130 Hercules planes, as well as Mi-35, Mi-17 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters.

Azerbaijan conducts bilateral military cooperation with Turkey within the framework of NATO in the fields of military technology, military education and intelligence sharing.

Since the early 1990s, Azerbaijan's military cooperation with Turkey has extended to joint exercises and the defense industry.

The ongoing drills will last until Sept. 30.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 19:58:09|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

JAKARTA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The anti-terror squad of Indonesian police arrested an alleged terrorist near an airport in West Java province on Monday, hours before the arrival of President Joko Widodo in the airport, police said.

The man with initial IM was captured near the Cakrabhuwana airport in Cirebon district at 2:30 p.m. local time, chief of provincial police Inspector General Agung Budi Marwoto said.

President Widodo is scheduled to arrive at the airport on Monday afternoon for a working visit to the district, according to the presidential office.

The police chief said that police seized weapons and other equipment to be used for terrorist acts.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:08:14|Editor: Yurou

Video Player Close

The Chinese naval fleet docks at the port in Vladivostok, Russia, on Sept. 18, 2017. China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

The exercises are scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea.

It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.

The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:23:20|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will pay an official visit to China on Sept. 19-21 at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

Lee was born in Singapore on Feb. 10, 1952. He graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, and earned a Master of Public Administration at Harvard University.

Lee joined the Singapore Armed Forces in 1971 and served as an officer from 1974 to 1984, becoming the youngest brigadier-general in Singaporean history.

After being elected as Member of Parliament in 1984, Lee successively held posts of defense minister, chairman of the government's economic committee and minister of trade and industry, concurrently appointed as second minister for defense, chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore and minister for finance.

Lee served as Singapore's deputy prime minister in 1990 and was appointed as prime minister in August 2004. He was consecutively re-elected in 2006, 2011 and 2015.

So far, Lee has paid four official visits to China.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:38:26|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

SUVA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Fiji Airways, the flag carrier of Fiji, and Solomon Airlines, the national carrier of the Solomon Islands, inked on Monday a codeshare agreement for flights between Fiji's third largest city of Nadi and Honiara, capital city of the Solomon Islands.

According to a press release issued on Monday by Fiji Airways, the codeshare, which comes into effect on Sept. 30 this year, will see both airlines place their respective FJ' and IE' codes on each other's flights between the two cities.

Andre Viljoen, managing director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Fiji Airways, showed his satisfaction with the agreement, saying that "We're very pleased to sign this codeshare agreement with our Melanesian friends and further strengthen our already comprehensive South Pacific network."

"The region is our home and it makes perfect sense for South Pacific airlines to work together to offer seamless travel options to our people and visitors travelling to Fiji and the Solomon Islands. Through this partnership we are opening up an important South Pacific destination Honiara to the rest of the world, boosting their tourism and trade potential."

Currently, Fiji Airways operates international and domestic services to 10 countries and regions and 17 cities around the Pacific Ocean, including Oceania, the United States and China's Hong Kong. Fiji Airways annually transports almost two-thirds of the visitors to the island state.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:48:29|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

JAKARTA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Transport ministry of Indonesia will seek participation of investors from Europe and Asia in the country's infrastructure projects for transportation sector, a minister said here on Monday.

Indonesian Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, who is scheduled to attend the 4th Asia-Europe transport minister meeting (ASEM TMM) 2017, said that he would offer strategic projects in both air transport and marine transport to the investors.

"It would be in detail when we conduct a one-on-one meeting with one country," he said at transport ministry.

The ASEM TMM meeting will take place in Indonesia's resort island of Bali from Sept. 26 to 28.

Indonesia, a vast archipelagic nation, is attempting to construct a massive infrastructure project to link over 17,500 islands in the country in an effort to help spur economic growth.

Still, the government badly needs participation of private sector to accelerate the projects.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:53:32|Editor: An

Video Player Close

KUNMING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Police in southwest China's Yunnan Province have caught one suspect and seized more than 45 kg of methamphetamine on the China-Myanmar border, authorities said Monday.

The man and drug were seized in Lincang City on Saturday morning, the border police with Lincang said in a statement.

The police received reports in early September that some people were planning to ship drugs to China from Myanmar. Then they set up checkpoints in key inspection areas.

On Saturday, three men carrying two woven bags crossed the border. They threw away the bags and ran back to Myanmar when seeing inspectors, the statement said.

One man was caught and another two fled. Police have found 23 packages of methamphetamine, or 45.17 kg in total.

Further investigation is under way.

Lincang is near Southeast Asia's Golden Triangle, a major area for opium production. By late July this year, police in Lincang had arrested 226 suspects in 422 cases and seized 1.025 tonnes of drugs.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 20:53:37|Editor: An

Video Player Close

HAIKOU, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- When Zhang Xiulong received an invitation in 2015 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of victory in World War II, he fell silent for a while, a tear in his eye: he knew he was not forgotten.

Zhang, 97, lives in a remote village in Wenchang City in the island province of Hainan in southern China.

He was among the 3,200 overseas Chinese drivers and vehicle repairmen who returned home during WWII to help transport supplies to the frontline in the war against Japanese aggression.

Monday is the 86th anniversary of the beginning of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

While the Japanese blocked most of the easy transport routes for military supply, in just nine months in 1938 and 1939, around 200,000 Chinese people built a road in the mountainous Yunnan Province that stretched to Myanmar.

The bumpy and dusty road became a "lifeline" for the war, as most military supplies for Chinese troops, including gasoline and weapons, were delivered from the Yangon port via the road.

DANGEROUS ROAD

When the road was ready, a shortage of drivers in China prompted Tan Kah Kee, a patriotic Malaysian Chinese business tycoon, to summon young overseas Chinese to return to help with transportation in 1939.

Zhang was one of them.

To pursue a better life, Zhang left his home in Hainan for Singapore with his uncle in 1936. He worked as a coffee shop waiter and then a cargo loader there. He still has a coffee habit to this day.

At the age of 21, he registered to return to China, without telling his uncle. "Reading the news about war back home every day was tormenting," he recalled.

After training to be a driver for a short time, Zhang was assigned to deliver gasoline on the Yunnan-Myanmar road, which he considered a "battlefield" that could claim one's life at any minute.

"We had a mountain cliff on one side, and a deep ravine on the other, with bombers flying over all the time trying to destroy the road," Zhang recalled, adding that malaria deep in the mountains also threatened their lives.

"Gasoline delivery was more dangerous, as any spark from a bombing would have led to an explosion," he says.

According to a book compiled by Chen Yiming, honorary head of the Overseas Chinese Museum in Xiamen City, Fujian Province, more than 1,000 Chinese who returned from abroad died on the 1,100-km road.

They helped with delivery of 500,000 tonnes of military supply and 15,000 vehicles and countless materials for civil use until 1942, when the Yangon port was occupied by Japanese troops.

After the war ended in 1945, Zhang returned to Singapore, without telling his relatives where he had been. As requested by his parents back home, Zhang finally returned to his hometown in Hainan Province in 1949, when the People's Republic of China was founded.

HISTORY REMEMBERED

Among the overseas Chinese who returned home to support the war against Japanese aggression, more than a quarter were natives of Hainan Province, according to Ye Jun, who has studied their history for over 20 years.

Ye, 67, learned about overseas Chinese heroes from his wife, whose late father was among them.

"He died when my wife was only eight, so she knew little about the history," said Ye.

To date, he has found information on 47 overseas Chinese who returned to join the war. Zhang is the only one still living in Hainan Province.

With his identity confirmed by Ye and the archives of a museum in Yunnan Province, Zhang was granted 114,000 yuan (17,400 U.S. dollars) in subsidies in 2011, based on a policy by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council.

Due to his poor health, Zhang did not make the trip to Beijing's Tiananmen Square for the parade on Sept. 3, 2015.

Yet on that morning, he got up very early and put on his best clothes. When he saw the veterans waving their hands on TV, Zhang knew there was a spot among them for him.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:08:42|Editor: An

Video Player Close

SOFIA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Bulgarian and Chinese officials here on Monday called for closer ties between China and Black Sea countries within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev and Chinese Ambassador to Bulgaria Zhang Haizhou here on Monday underlined the importance of the Black Sea region within the Belt and Road Initiative.

They made the statements at the opening ceremony of the international conference "The Black Sea Regional Dimension of the Belt and Road Initiative".

"The conference demonstrates the common will and desire for a more dynamic dialogue and more intensive and large-scale cooperation between China and the countries of the Black Sea region," Georgiev told the event, co-organized by the Diplomatic Institute to the Bulgarian Foreign Minister, and the 16+1 Think Tanks Network of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

The linkage between the Black Sea region and the Belt and Road Initiative would help strengthen cooperation between Asian and European countries, and constitute a step towards building an open regional and global economy, based on peace and prosperity, Georgiev said.

More investments and joint projects in the Black Sea region in areas such as infrastructure and energy would make the region even more competitive and purposeful, Georgiev said.

"China attaches great importance to strengthening the pragmatic cooperation with the countries of the Black Sea region, including Bulgaria, in the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative," Zhang said. "The cooperation potential is huge."

The active involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative and the achievement of common development met the interests of all countries, Zhang said.

The key and the most important first step in terms of Belt and Road construction is "strengthening policy coordination," according to the ambassador.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:18:44|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

ABUJA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A suicide attack in Nigeria's northeastern state of Borno on Monday claimed at least 15 lives, according to security sources.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:18:48|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

VILNIUS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Reducing the use of private cars, creating more convenient public transport system and thus increasing the quality of life in Lithuania's capital Vilnius are among the main goals of sustainable mobility plan to be created by the city's municipality, its representatives said in a conference on Monday.

The plan does not rule out taxing car entries into the city of Vilnius in the future, however, this measure is yet to be discussed, Kristina Gauce, coordinator of sustainable mobility plan, told reporters.

"Sustainable mobility plan will include all types of movement, from cars to pedestrians; the main goal is to increase quality of life in the city, also to alter the habits of Vilnius residents and visitors," Gauce was quoted as saying by local media.

"The solution must be complex, if we restrict the use of own cars, alternatives must be offered," she added.

Representatives from Vilnius and other municipalities, municipal enterprise Vilniaus Planas, public transport company Susisiekimo Paslaugos and foreign experts took part in a conference on the city's public transport outlook this week.

"Public transport is an extremely important area; huge investments are not needed, it is important to stick to the plan and to allocate investments wisely in order to make the transport more safe, clean and faster," Tom Rye, Professor of Transport at Edinburgh Napier University, said at the conference.

It was noted at the event that Vilnius is the city that experiences the biggest transport flow management challenges in Lithuania, according to the news agency Elta.

Vilnius residents spend too much time in traffic jams, and are involved in too many road traffic accidents, the participants of the conference underlined. They said the level of pollution is constantly growing.

The sustainable mobility plan must be prepared by mid-2018, while its measures should be implemented by 2030, the municipality said in a statement.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:23:53|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L), Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela (C) and Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, Panama's vice president and foreign minister, attend a signing ceremony in Panama City, on Sept. 17, 2017. Wang hold the first political consultation between the two governments with his Panamanian counterpart here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Dan Hang)

PANAMA CITY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Sunday that China and Panama can become long-term reliable partners that can enjoy shared progress and prosperity.

Wang made the remarks while meeting with Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, Panama's vice president and foreign minister, during his visit to the Latin American country.

Over the past more than three months since the two countries established diplomatic ties, the two sides have seen intensive exchanges and early results of bilateral cooperation, said Wang.

He noted that China welcomes Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela to visit China later this year so as to boost the two countries' cooperation in economy, trade, investment, industrial capacity, maritime transportation, aviation, tourism and culture.

Wang also said China is willing to work with Panama to enhance the political foundation for bilateral ties, adding that he believes Panama will well handle the issue of Taiwan according to their joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations, and carry out its various promises.

China is ready to volume up its communications and coordination with Panama in multilateral affairs, and help preserve Panama's legitimate rights on international occasions, he added.

For her part, Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado said her country values its traditional friendship with China, and welcomes more Chinese businesses to invest in Panama.

The Latin American country hopes to negotiate and reach a free trade agreement with China as early as possible and to cooperate with China in infrastructure, finance, maritime transportation, aviation, tourism and culture so as to benefit the two peoples, she said.

Panama supports China's Belt and Road Initiative, and hopes to be a part of it, the minister said, adding that her country would like to be a bridge that links China with other countries in the region.

Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado also noted that her country shall firmly abide by the one China policy and implement its promises in the joint communique without having any form of official contacts or exchanges with Taiwan.

Proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative aims to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa on and beyond the ancient Silk Road routes. It comprises the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:23:54|Editor: An

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) will amend its constitution at the upcoming national congress.

The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Monday deliberated a draft amendment to the constitution at a meeting presided over by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee.

"Amending the constitution at the 19th CPC National Congress on the basis of the new situation and tasks would promote the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics and Party building," said a statement issued after the meeting.

It said the amendments must include the key theories and strategic thoughts presented by a work report to be delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress.

"The amended constitution must fully represent the latest sinicization of Marxism, new governance concepts, thought and strategies of the CPC Central Committee since the 18th CPC National Congress, as well as new experiences in adhering to and strengthening Party leadership and in strict Party governance," according to the statement.

It also noted that the amendment should make the CPC more vigorous, stronger and enable it to keep a close connection with the people.

The draft amendment will be submitted to the seventh plenary meeting of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which will be held on Oct. 11, for discussion.

The CPC constitution was last amended in 2012.

The meeting also reviewed a draft report by the 18th CPC Central Committee to the 19th CPC National Congress, which has undergone public and Party consultation. The draft, with revisions after the meeting, will be submitted to the seventh plenary meeting of the 18th CPC Central Committee for discussion.

"Wisdom should be pooled to draw up a report which conforms to the common wish shared by the Party and people of all ethnic groups, meets the requirements for socialist development with Chinese characteristics and adapts to the new situation and tasks for the work of the Party and the country," the statement said.

"The 19th CPC National Congress is a very important meeting to be held at a critical stage when China is striving for achieving a moderately prosperous society in an all-round way, and at a critical time for the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics."

It also said that the congress has a great significance in inspiring and mobilizing people to forge ahead.

The statement said it is imperative to analyze the development trend of the world and China, grasp new requirements for the country's development and new expectations from the people, and summarize the experiences that the Party has gained from leading people to advance the reform and opening up and the building of socialist modernization.

"The people-oriented development thought should be implemented to solve the conspicuous problems faced by the country and a strategic plan should be made for the causes of the Party and the country to promote balanced economic, political, cultural, social, and ecological progress and coordinated implementation of the Four-Pronged Comprehensive Strategy," the statement said.

The Four-Pronged Comprehensive Strategy refers to building a moderately prosperous society, deepening reform, advancing law-based governance and strengthening Party self-governance.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:28:56|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's Huawei said Monday it plans to foster all small segments in order to boost its market share in Kenya.

Huawei Technologies Kenya Managing Director Derek Du told Xinhua in Nairobi that the multipronged approach will enable the firm to maximize sales.

"Previously we focused either on the low-income or high-end segment, but now our new strategy will see us to focus on all consumer segments due to our large handset variety," said Du. In 2016, the technology firm had a 14 percent market share.

"Our target is that in the next five years, we expand our market share to 30 percent," Du said, adding Huawei will not only focus on marketing efforts but also on producing quality phones for the Kenyan market.

Early this month, Huawei launched the Y series phone that targets the low-income segment of the population.

"The Y series will enable us to capture the large and growing demand by the youth for entry level smartphones," the managing director said.

A few years ago, the Chinese telecommunication firm discontinued manufacturing feature phones in favor of smartphones.

"The main reason is due to the growing trend by consumers to demand phones with access to internet and social media browsing capabilities," he said.

The tech giant has invested heavily in Research and Development (R&D) in order to come up with innovative phones that meet consumer needs.

Du noted that his firm spends approximately 14 percent of its revenue on R&D annually in order to stay internationally competitive.

Globally, Huawei maintains 15 R&D centers, out of which 12 are focused on developing new mobile devices.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:34:02|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close





Zhang Dejiang (R), chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Speaker of the National Assembly of Gambia Mariam Jack Denton at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Gambia on Monday agreed to further parliamentary exchanges and cooperation.

China's top legislator Zhang Dejiang held talks with Speaker of the National Assembly of Gambia Mariam Jack Denton in Beijing.

Zhang, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said the resumption of diplomatic ties between the two countries started a new chapter in political mutual trust, economic and trade cooperation, as well as people-to-people exchanges.

China attaches great importance to its ties with Gambia, Zhang said, noting that China supports Gambian new government's efforts to improve people's wellbeing and realize sustainable development.

Zhang said relations between legislatures of the two countries are an important part of bilateral ties, and China's NPC is willing to work with National Assembly of Gambia to contribute to the development of bilateral friendly and cooperative relations.

He suggested the two legislative bodies cement political mutual trust, enhance pragmatic cooperation and experience-sharing in state governance, legislation and supervision, boost people-to-people exchanges in parties, youth and sub-national level.

Zhang called on the two sides to firmly support each other on issues concerning their core interests.

China and Gambia have great cooperative potential in agriculture, fishery, infrastructure and tourism, Zhang said, expressing his hope that the two legislative bodies should provide legal protection and policy support for these pragmatic cooperation.

Denton said Gambia values its ties with China and firmly adheres to the one-China policy.

She said the National Assembly of Gambia is willing to communicate more with China's NPC, expressing hope for more cooperation with China.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:49:10|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

WINDHOEK, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Namibian Police Inspector General Sebastian Ndeitunga said Monday that law enforcement agencies in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region should work together to combat the illicit trafficking of firearms and weapons.

In his speech read on his behalf during the opening of the 14th regional coordinating committee on small and light weapons in Windhoek, Ndeitunga agencies should stop competing against each other.

The meeting is expected o evaluate the implementation of the SADC Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Other Related Materials.

The protocol outlines objectives, international initiatives, legislative measures, mutual legal assistance and law enforcement on control of firearms and ammunition within the region.

Also, the meeting is expected to discuss the challenges of combating the illicit trade and trafficking of small firearms in the SADC region.

Ndeitunga said agencies could work better together if they exchange information on illicit brokers of firearms, both regionally and internationally.

The Namibian coordinator of the illicit trade of small firearms, light weapons and ammunition, Nghiwanwa Shaama also told the committee that the southern African region has a challenge regarding illegal firearms trade.

Apart from old guns that came from past conflicts, there is a new threat of new arms being smuggled into the region largely because of porous borders and poor coordination.

"The illicit trafficking of firearms and weapons has a negative impact on national stability and security, which calls for international and regional instruments," Shaama said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:54:12|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

ROME, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Italian sales abroad grew by 5.1 percent in July compared to the same month of 2016, while imports increased by 10.5 percent, the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) said on Monday.

Outgoing flows towards European Union (EU) countries marked a 6.2 percent rise on the annual basis, while exports outside the EU grew by 3.8 percent, according to the latest data.

On the same trend, incoming flows from EU markets grew by 12.1 percent, and those from non-EU areas by 8.2 percent.

Among the sectors most contributing to the growth of exports were pharmaceuticals (22.8 percent), motor vehicles (14.0 percent), chemical substances and products (7.9 percent), and food products, beverages and tobacco (7.6 percent), ISTAT said.

The trade balance in July totalled a surplus of 6.6 billion euros (7.8 billion U.S. dollars); it had amounted to 7.8 billion euros (9.3 billion U.S. dollars) in July 2016.

The trade balance reached a surplus worth 25.6 billion euros in the first seven months of 2017, compared to the same period in 2016, the agency added.

Seasonally adjusted data also showed Italian imports between May and July 2017 remained flat, while imports grew by 1.0 percent.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 21:54:13|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

RAMALLAH, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is to demand U.S. President Donald Trump to declare his commitment to the two-state solution in order to achieve peace in the Middle East, a senior Palestinian official in Abbas Fatah Party said Monday in an interview with Xinhua.

Mohamed Ishtayeh, member of Fatah Central Committee, said that President Abbas' demand "will be the cornerstone on the agenda of the issues that are to be discussed during Abbas meeting with Trump in New York."

"The aim is to succeed the current efforts on resuming peace," said Ishtayeh, who is a veteran negotiator in the peace talks with Israel, expressing hope for the Trump administration to support the two-state solution in accordance to 1967 borders, otherwise "the peace track would be useless."

He said no U.S. official has talked about the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Ishtayeh said that he hopes the current U.S. administration could be coherent with the former administrations, and "work harder to end the Israeli occupation and achieve a two-state solution on the 1967 borders."

Abbas and Trump are scheduled to meet in New York on the sidelines of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. It will be their third meeting since they had met in Washington for the first time in early May and then in Bethlehem in the West bank, when Trump made his first visit to the region.

Ishtayeh said "Abbas would stress to Trump the steadfast position of interest and positive engagement to a serious and real political path with Israel, but according to the two-state solution."

He also said Abbas would stress that no talks of a course could be independent of another, adding that "it is unacceptable for a Palestinian to talk about an economic course in isolation from the political path, and it is unacceptable to talk about a security path in isolation from other tracks," he asserted.

Ishtayeh said that Abbas would reaffirm to Trump that the solution with Israel counts mainly on the Arab peace initiative launched in 2002 and includes the offer of Arab normalization with Israel provided that the latter end its occupation of Palestinian and Arab territories occupied in 1967.

The last peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians ended in March 2014 after nine months of U.S.-sponsored talks without making any progress to resolve the decades-old of conflict.

Ishtayeh, meanwhile, announced that Abbas will talk with Trump on the U.S. Congress' draft resolution against the Palestinian Authority.

"There are 16 resolutions currently being discussed in the U.S. Congress against the Palestinian Authority, including cutting off funds and imposing sanctions," he said, adding that "it is unthinkable to be partners in peace with the United States, while at the same time discussing such decisions against the Palestinian Authority."

On Abbas' speech before the UN General Assembly scheduled hours after his meeting with Trump, Ishtayeh said it would be "a comprehensive speech that includes many issues and will address the Palestinian concern and future visions to break the current impasse."

He denied the agreement to hold a meeting between Abbas and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in New York in the light of Cairo-sponsored developments in the file of internal Palestinian reconciliation with Hamas movement.

"So far, there is no meeting on the agenda of President Abbas with President Sisi, but meetings with the Egyptian president are always a qualitative addition and we hope that the agenda of the two presidents will allow a meeting between them," he said.

Ishtayeh said that Hamas declaration to dissolve its administrative committee in the Gaza Strip and calling on the consensus government to function in Gaza "is very important," stressing that Fatah is committed to reconciliation with Hamas.

He called on the consensus government of Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah to "go to the Gaza Strip not tomorrow, but today, because we have to race time before many parties would work on disrupting the reconciliation."

"Reconciliation must succeed and should lead to free and fair public elections, including the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Jerusalem, and then the Palestinian National Council should renew the blood in the Palestinian institution with all its facilities," Ishtayeh said, adding that the opportunity is ripe for reconciliation success this time.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:04:16|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Over the recent years, Iranian customers have inclined for the consumption of organic food products, ranging from fruit and vegetable to fish, meat and dairy products, Financial Tribune daily reported on Monday.

To address the demand, Tehran municipality is considering to increase the number of organic food stalls in the municipality-run vegetable and fruit markets, Abdolhossein Rahimi, the head of Tehran Municipality's Fruit and Vegetables Markets Management Organization, said.

To encourage organic farming, Tehran municipality will allocate market spaces at lower prices to organic food producers, said Rahimi.

Besides, Iran plans to hold 10th festival on organic agricultural products in Tehran's Goftogu Park in January 2018. International manufacturers and producers will attend.

According to Rahimi, the festival has seen improvement in the number of participants each year. Last year, the week-long exhibition received around 25,000 visitors every day.

Earlier this month, Tehran Municipality's Fruits and Vegetables Markets Management Organization was granted a membership in the Association of Asian Local Governments for Organic Agriculture in the latest meeting of the association in South Korea.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:09:20|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

OSLO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Iceland's President Gudni Johannesson said Monday he has accepted the prime minister's request to dissolve the parliament and a new election will be held on Oct. 28, local media reported.

Following his meeting with Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson earlier the day, Johannesson said he had looked into the possibility of forming a minority government but that it had soon become clear that it was not possible.

The president rejected Benediktsson's proposal to dissolve parliament immediately, saying it could remain in session until the election.

Benediktsson on Friday called for a new parliamentary election after Bright Future, a junior partner in the three-party governing coalition, decided to quit due to a "breach of trust" within the center-right government.

Bright Future's move effectively led to the collapse of Iceland's government as the three-party ruling coalition holds a slim majority with 32 seats in the 63-seat parliament.

The Reform Party, another junior partner, has called for new elections as soon as possible.

It was revealed on Thursday that Benediktsson's father signed a letter of recommendation so that a convicted pedophile would receive what in Iceland is called "restored honor," which effectively wipes the criminal record of a person who has served his or her sentence.

Letters of recommendation are required for this procedure.

Minister of Justice Sigridur Andersen, also from the Independence Party, said Thursday night that she had informed Benediktsson of his father's letter in July, Icelandic public broadcaster RUV reported.

But Benediktsson neglected to inform Bright Future and Reform Party leaders of the letter until Monday, according to RUV.

The center-right coalition government only took office in January.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:09:22|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

DAMASCUS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The air base of Syria's eastern province of Deir al-Zour resumed operations on Monday, following break of a three-year siege imposed by the Islamic State (IS) group, amid major progress by the Syrian army and its allies, a military source told Xinhua.

The first two cargo planes loaded with large quantities of supplies landed at the air base on Monday morning, carrying aid for the Syrian forces fighting IS in Deir al-Zour, after the Syrian army and allied fighters secured the vicinity of that facility, the source said, on condition of anonymity.

He said the Syrian warplanes resumed operations in the air base and taking part in striking the IS positions.

Last week, the Syrian army broke the IS siege on the air base, just days after breaking the siege of the Brigade 173 west of Deir al-Zour.

During the siege, warplanes could not take off and land in the base as IS would have targeted them.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Syrian reconnaissance forces, with the help of Russian air power, crossed and reached the eastern bank of Euphrates River in Deir al-Zour.

The London-based watchdog group added that the forces crossed using water bridges following intense shelling on IS positions in the eastern bank of the river.

The Syrian forces have become in control of over 60 percent of the capital city of Deir al-Zour, the observatory said.

A day earlier, the observatory said the Syrian army managed to besiege IS militants in parts of Deir al-Zour.

Ten days after breaking a three-year siege of IS to Deir al-Zour, the Russian-backed Syrian forces and allied fighters turned the tables on IS, laying a siege to the IS-held parts of the capital city of Deir al-Zour after capturing some key areas in its countryside, according to the observatory.

The Syrian army captured the town of Muraiyieh and Jafra, key to laying the siege to IS militants in Deir al-Zour.

The Syrian army is now 25 km from the key city of Mayadeen in the countryside of Deir al-Zour Province. The city is regarded as the capital of IS in Deir al-Zour.

Deir al-Zour is the last major stronghold of IS, as the terror-designated group is also losing its de facto capital of Raqqa to the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, which has captured large swathes of the city in northern Syria.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:09:24|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

ISLAMABAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Monday summoned the Swiss ambassador and lodged protest over anti-Pakistan advertisement campaign in Geneva, officials said.

Reports earlier said that posters inscribed with "Free Balochistan" and displayed in parts of Geneva are believed to have been done by the separatist elements, who live in self-exile.

Swiss Ambassador Thomas Kolly was asked that his country should not allow such campaign against a sovereign state, officials said.

The ambassador was also told that the use of Switzerland soil against Pakistan is against international laws.

Meanwhile, drawing the attention of the Swiss government on the issue, Pakistan's Permanent Mission to the United Nations at Geneva demanded the Swiss government to take strict actions against the culprits involved in this act.

In his letter released to the media, Permanent Representative Farrukh Amil said that the use of Swiss soil by terrorist and violent secessionists for nefarious designs against Pakistan and its 200 million people is totally unacceptable.

"The terrorists or elements linked with terrorists operate openly in the peaceful and serene city of Geneva for their propaganda campaigns is a matter of grave concern," the ambassador said.

He said that Swiss authorities should be alert about presence of Balochistan Liberation Army terrorists or elements linked with such terrorists in Geneva.

Farrukh Amil demanded investigations with a view to block its recurrence in the future and expressed the hope that Swiss authorities will proceed against the local accomplices of the Balochistan Liberation Army who wittingly support the terrorist group.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:14:31|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's Foreign Minister Anifah Aman will lead his country's delegation to the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly (72nd UNGA) in New York this week, the foreign ministry announced Monday.

Anifah is scheduled to deliver Malaysia's National Statement at the General Debate on September 22, touching on issues related to the situation in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state, the question of Palestine, developments in the Korean Peninsula, elimination of nuclear weapons, Global Movement of Moderates, and UN reform initiative, among others, according to the statement.

Anifah is also expected to sign on behalf of the Government of Malaysia the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and the Memorandum of Understanding concerning Malaysia Airlines MH17 of the Joint Investigations Team, on September 20.

While in New York, Anifah is scheduled to have bilateral meetings with his counterparts on the sidelines of the General Assembly, as well as attending meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting and Ministerial Meetings of the Non-Aligned Movement.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:14:34|Editor: liuxin

Video Player Close

ABUJA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A suicide attack in Nigeria's northeastern state of Borno on Monday claimed at least 15 lives, according to security sources.

Details of the attack in Konduga, a central town in Borno, the state capital, was still sketchy.

One security personnel, who demanded anonymity, said a suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device near a crowd in the area.

A rescue team had been dispatched to the scene of the blast to evacuate victims of the attack, said Tim Kola, a Xinhua reporter in Borno State.

Terror group Boko Haram is suspected to be responsible for the suicide blast on Monday.

Konduga was one of the areas invaded by Boko Haram in 2013. It was later liberated in 2015 by the Nigerian military.

Boko Haram has killed more than 20,000 and displaced 2.3 million others since 2009.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 22:39:45|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

by David Musyoka

NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat (VDS), which is implementing the country's economic blueprint Vision 2030, said on Monday that economic growth will not be derailed by the current political activities.

VDS Director General Julius Muia said investment activities in Kenya will increase significantly after the Oct. 17 repeat presidential elections on the back of significant appetite by foreign investor for a piece of the mega infrastructure projects in the country.

"Increased confidence shown by investors following a historic Supreme Court ruling, resilience of the stocks market and stellar performance of the shilling against the U.S. dollar are key developments that give us confidence in the stability of economic performance," Muia said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

This positive sentiment, Muia said, is anchored on the expected development dividend that will accrue as the country embarks on implementing the projects outlined in the Medium Term Plan (MTP III).

The MTP III, which lays emphasis on structural transformation and a strong growth in the manufacturing and industrial sectors, is expected to boost the country's export and improve the performance of the economy.

Muia also singled out Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) as one of many transformational projects where investors have expressed overwhelming interest, especially in high technology components that involve development of what will be the country's biggest steel mill operation.

"A project of the LAPSSET magnitude is very important to the economy as it will open up two-thirds of the country's investment space and will stir activities that will spark an uptick in economic growth," Muia said.

Economists have predicted a slight drop in the growth of the economy to 4.9 percent, down from 5.5 percent last year, citing prolonged politicking in the country.

Compared to previous electoral cycles, this dip is relatively low and signals the divorce of the economy from politics.

According to Muia, consistent implementation of large developmental projects and substantial investments in capital, technology and expertise in new sectors such as mining, oil and gas as well as the blue economy are expected to kickstart, once the repeat presidential election is held, bringing an end to a prolonged election season.

The aspirations of Kenyans still remain true: that the economy will enjoy a high economic growth rate to propel the country to upper middle income status and enable the citizens to enjoy decent lives.

On Friday, Cabinet Secretary in the National Treasury Henry Rotich said the prolonged electioneering period caused by nullification of the Aug. 8 presidential polls by the Supreme Court is negatively affecting the business climate.

Investors are adopting a wait-and-see approach toward new projects and this has forced the government to revise downwards its economic growth forecast for 2017 to 5.5 percent, Rotich said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:00:00|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- An Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn has left for New York to participate in the 72nd Regular Session of the UN General Assembly.

The high level open debate on the reform of UN peacekeeping is one of Ethiopia's signature events during the east African country's presidency of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the month of September.

According to the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hailemariam, due to arrive in New York late on Monday, will preside over the High-Level Debate on Reform of United Nations Peacekeeping on Wednesday, 20 September.

The Ethiopian delegation is expected to meet with heads of state and government of different countries and discuss issues of mutual interest, the ministry said in a statement issued on Monday.

The Assembly started to convene at UN Headquarters in New York on September 12, while the General Debate will open on September 19 under the theme: "Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet."

Hailemariam is also expected to take part on various sideline meetings that have a wide range of focus from peace and security to climate change and sustainable development matters, the ministry said in a statement issued on Monday.

Meles Alem, Spokesperson of Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), told Xinhua recently that Ethiopia in its presidency of the UNSC for the month of September mainly focuses on resolution of conflicts in Somalia, South Sudan and the Great Lakes region.

As part of the plan, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and the UN Security Council held their joint 11th consultative meeting in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa on September 7 to 8.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:05:02|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

KATHMANDU, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Nepal will sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons this week during the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said here in Kathmandu on Monday.

Nepali Deputy Prime Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara, who is the in-charge of foreign affairs, will ink the treaty on behalf of Nepal, MoFA spokesperson Bharat Raj Paudyal said.

Signature of the treaty shows Nepal's commitment towards the achievement of a world free from the threat posed by nuclear weapons, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Nepali Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will be leaving for New York on Tuesday to attend the UN General Assembly session.

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, or the Nuclear Weapon Ban Treaty, is the first legally binding international agreement to comprehensively prohibit nuclear weapons, with the goal of leading towards their total elimination. It was adopted at the United Nations Conference on July 7, 2017.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:15:10|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ISLAMABAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- At least one person was killed and 17 others were injured when a suicide bomber hit a security forces vehicle in Pakistan's southwestern city of Chaman in Balochistan province on Monday evening, local Urdu channel Geo TV reported.

According to the reports, the attack took place at about 6:35 p.m. local time when a suicide bomber detonated his explosives-laden vest near a security forces vehicle in Chaman, a city located on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, killing one citizen on the spot and leaving 17 others injured.

The vehicle was on its way to the "Friendship Gate," a crossing point at Pak-Afghan border, when it came under the attack, said a senior official of a paramilitary force, adding that security personnel were among the injured people.

Rescue teams and law enforcement agencies rushed to the site immediately after the blast and shifted the body and injured to a hospital.

All the injured have been shifted to the Civil Hospital Chaman, where the doctors said that the death toll might further rise as some of the injured people are in critical condition.

Security forces have cordoned off the area and kicked off a search operation in the surroundings to arrest the facilitators of the suicide bomber.

Pakistani Authorities have closed "Friendship Gate" in Chaman for all kinds of transportation between the two countries after the attack for an indefinite time.

No group has claimed the attack yet.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:25:14|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, discussed Trump's visit to China later this year and the Korean Peninsula situation over phone late Monday.

In the phone conversation, Xi said China and the United States share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas at present.

Xi said he is happy to maintain communications with Trump on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern.

He also said Beijing attaches great importance to Trump's state visit to China, and called on both sides to work closely so as to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of China-U.S. relations.

The two sides need to strengthen high-level contacts and contacts at all levels, well operate the first round of China-U.S. social and cultural dialogue, as well as law enforcement and cyber security dialogue, and extend bilateral cooperation in all fields, Xi noted.

For his part, Trump said he is looking forward to paying the state visit to China, hoping that the trip can strongly move bilateral ties further forward.

It is satisfactory for the U.S. and Chinese heads of state to maintain close contacts and a fine working relationship, Trump said.

This year, both the United States and China have important domestic agendas, the U.S. president noted, expressing the hope that these agendas will all be smoothly carried out.

In the phone conversation, Xi also expressed sympathy and solicitude to Trump and the American people for the hurricane attacks on the United States over the past few days, and Trump expressed thanks therefor.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the current situation on the Korean Peninsula.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:30:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

MOSCOW, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian government troops, supported by Russian warplanes, have crossed the Euphrates River near Syria's eastern city of Deir al-Zour, the Russian Defense Ministry said Monday.

The Syrian army has driven Islamic State (IS) militants from a number of villages on the eastern bank of the Euphrates and launched an offensive in the eastern direction, a ministry statement said.

The Syrian government forces are now carrying out a rapid attack against terrorists in the vicinity of Deir al-Zour, the last major IS stronghold in Syria, according to the ministry.

Earlier this month, the Russia-backed Syrian army broke the IS siege of Deir al-Zour, which had been held by the terrorist group for three years.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:30:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

VILNIUS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Lithuanian Foreign Ministry on Monday summoned Russian ambassador and handed a diplomatic note expressing protest over what it claimed as "a violation of the Lithuanian airspace".

The incident took place in the evening of Sept. 16, according to the ministry.

"Two Russian military aircrafts IL-76 entered Lithuania's airspace and stayed there for up to 2 minutes," said the ministry in a press release.

The two military planes were flying from mainland Russia to its exclave of Kaliningrad, bordering Southern Lithuania, said the ministry. Lithuania, a small Baltic country with a population of less than 3 million, is the Eastern flank member country of NATO.

The Lithuanian foreign ministry "expressed its protest to the Russian ambassador and requested competent Russian authorities to provide and explanation over the incident as soon as possible."

The incident took place during the Zapad 2017 military drill, held by Russia and Belarus on the border with Lithuania, Poland and Belarus.

Vytautas Bakas, the chair of the parliamentary committee for national security and defense, said the incident shouldn't be a surprise for military officials, politicians or Lithuanian public.

"This shouldn't be a surprise given the large scope of the exercise," Bakas told local media.

The Russian defense ministry has repeatedly stated that flights by Russia's Aerospace Forces are carried out "in strict accordance" with international regulations on the use of airspace over neutral waters, according to a report by Sputnik.

A week of strategic military exercise Zapad 2017 officially started on Thursday last week.

Currently, the Baltic skies at the Eastern flank of NATO are being policed by the U.S. rotational Air Force. Last month the United States has deployed seven fighter jets F-15C Eagle at Siauliai air base, Northern Lithuania, to take over the air policing mission. In recent two years, usually four allied fighter jets would conduct air policing missions from Lithuania.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:35:22|Editor: Liu

Video Player Close

Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela (L) and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi inaugurate the Chinese embassy in Panama City, Panama, on Sept. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Dan Hang)

PANAMA CITY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the inauguration ceremony of the Chinese embassy in Panama here on Sunday, together with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela.

In a speech delivered at the ceremony, Wang said that although there were interruptions in the development of China-Panama relations, bilateral ties have finally embarked upon a correct path with bright prospects.

"This is a historic moment for China-Panama relations," Wang said, noting that the Chinese embassy will strictly observe its duty to implement the Chinese government's policy of friendship with Panama, so as to open up a new era of common development.

"The Chinese embassy in Panama will be the new home for the Chinese community and Chinese companies in Panama. It will provide them with support and warmth when they have needs or find themselves in difficulty," said Wang to the assembled crowd.

Wang also expressed his gratitude to all those who made the establishment of diplomatic relations possible, such as the Chinese community whose early members first arrived in Panama about 160 years ago.

"Though oceans apart, China and Panama share a long history of friendship," Wang noted, saying that the early overseas Chinese in Panama made an indelible contribution to Panama's development and construction. He expressed the hope that they will keep playing the role as bridges to promote bilateral ties between the two countries.

He also appreciated those committed to establishing diplomatic relations between China and Panama, which would open broad prospects for the development of Panama and bring great happiness to the peoples of both countries.

"History will prove that the decision to establish diplomatic relations between Panama and China meets the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries," said Wang in the speech.

The two countries were charting down a new long-term path which "will bring hope, cooperation and mutual benefits," Wang noted, adding that China is willing to continue working with Panama to consolidate mutual trust and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:35:23|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

CAPE TOWN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- International auditing firm KPMG must be held accountable for its involvement in what appears to be politically motivated immoral conduct, South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) said on Monday.

This came after KPMG withdrew its report into the so-called "rogue unit" in the South African Revenue Services (SARS).

KPMG last Friday announced its decision to withdraw the report that found irregularities in the establishment of the unit accused of spying on taxpapers, including VIPs, through illegal intelligence gathering.

KPMG admitted that its report on SARS lacked sufficient evidence to conclude findings of a "rogue unit" and offered to repay the 23- million-rand fee it received from SARS.

Some of KPMG's senior officials have resigned over the debacle.

The report was partly instrumental in the downfall of former finance minister Pravin Gordhan, who was accused of knowing and endorsing the "rogue unit" when he was SARS Commissioner between 1999 and 2009.

Allegations around the unit's work led to Gordhan being criminally charged. However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) eventually declined to prosecute Gordhan.

"The withdrawal of some aspects of the SARS so called 'rogue unit' report calls into question the integrity of KPMG as an auditing firm entrusted to do business with the state," the ANC's Study Group on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) said.

SCOPA said it will therefore be calling KPMG to appear before Parliament to account on its conduct regarding the report.

Earlier on Monday, SARS Commissioner Tom Moyane said the revenue service will be taking legal action against KPMG.

Moyane said he will also ask Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba to blacklist KPMG, which will effectively mean the auditing firm will not be able to do any work for government departments.

Furthermore SARS will be conducting a review of all work KPMG has done for it in the past 10 years, to see if there was any "value for money", Moyane said.

KPMG is suspected of being associated with the controversial Indian Gupta family which is accused of exerting undue influence over President Jacob Zuma in the appointment of cabinet ministers and the awarding of lucrative contracts with state-owned enterprises, known as "state capture".

KPMG's announcement to withdraw the "rogue unit" report came after the conclusion of the company's investigation into its alleged ties with the Guptas and the handling of the family's accounts in Johannesburg.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:35:25|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Indian police Monday claimed to have arrested a suspected al Qaeda terrorist in the national capital.

The special cell of Delhi Police arrested Shumon Haque, the 28-year-old terrorist, from near a bus stand at Shakapur in east Delhi late Sunday evening.

"Shumon Haque has been allegedly associated with the terror outfit for the last four years," Pramod Kushwaha, deputy commissioner (special cell), told the media.

"Kushwaha was produced in a court this afternoon and remanded to police custody for further interrogation," another official said.

This is the third al Qaeda terror suspect nabbed by Delhi Police in the past one month.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:35:26|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

U.S. President Donald Trump (C, front) speaks at a high-level UN reform meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Li Muzi)

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday called for a change of bureaucracy in the United Nations.

Guterres and Trump made their statement at a high-level U.N. reform meeting in New York.

Guterres said efforts were needed to change "fragmented structures" and "byzantine procedures" in the U.N., making it a more "nimble and effective, flexible and efficient" global organization.

He also mentioned that the U.N. is making progress on a broad and bold reform agenda to strengthen itself.

Addressing the meeting, Trump said the United Nations has been kept from reaching its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement.

He praised Guterres for laying out a vision to reform the world body, noting that there has been changes under the secretary-general.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-18 23:40:29|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L), Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela (C) and Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, Panama's vice president and foreign minister, attend a signing ceremony in Panama City, on Sept. 17, 2017. Wang hold the first political consultation between the two governments with his Panamanian counterpart here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Dan Hang)(whw)

PANAMA CITY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hailed here Sunday the first 100 days since China and Panama established diplomatic ties by giving it "a full score of 100 points".

At a joint press conference with Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, Panama's vice president and foreign minister, Wang said that during these 100 days, the two sides opened their respective embassies in each other's countries, initiated negotiations on more than a dozen cooperation agreements concerning trade, investment, quality inspection, maritime transportation, aviation, finance, tourism, culture and justice so as to build up the basic framework for long-term development of China-Panama relations.

He urged the two sides to sign these agreements in a package when Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela visits China later this year.

The Chinese minister noted that a group of Chinese firms came to Panama a few days ago, and signed at once contracts for the export of Panamanian goods to Chinese markets valued at 38.7 million U.S. dollars.

He said China would like to join hands with Panama tightly and continue to strengthen exchanges at all levels and in various sectors so as to promote mutual understanding and trust.

At the press conference, Wang said China is willing to work with Panama, a key Latin American nation, to jointly build a new type of international relations that stress win-win cooperation.

Wang recalled that during his meeting with Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, the two sides reached a broad range of consensuses, and agreed that the one China policy would be the political foundation for bilateral ties.

They also agreed to enhance high-level exchanges, deepen political mutual trust, and take joint construction of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road as an opportunity to promote mutually beneficial cooperation so as to better serve the two peoples.

The two sides also agreed that China and Panama, both developing economies, should support each other on issues of their respective concerns, and strengthen communication and coordination in regional and international affairs in a bid to maintain the overall interests of the developing world.
| 2017-09-19 00:24:25|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

by William M. Reilly

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Windows washed, hedges trimmed, security heightened and the stage is set for some 130 heads of state and government and others gathering for the week-long VIP session of the U.N. General Assembly (UNGA), a real-life diplomatic drama starring U.S. President Donald Trump in his first appearance.

But the spotlight will only briefly be on him as hundreds of diplomats are expected to focus on U.N. reform and scores of other topics which remain high on the agenda, including the Middle East, climate change, hurricanes and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

While the U.S. speaker at the annual event generally garners the greatest amount of curiosity, observers this year will be keenly tuned to see how Trump acts, given his history of controversy, his demand for reform and how he will push his "America First" agenda.

Ninety heads of state, more than 30 heads of governments, four vice presidents and three deputy prime ministers have been inscribed on the list of speakers, in addition to scores of ministers.

President Emmanuel Macron of France is scheduled to speak on Tuesday and British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday.

At his first such session as U.N. secretary-general, Antonio Guterres of Portugal will deliver a report on the state of the organization at 9:00 a.m. EDT (1300 GMT) Tuesday, followed by Miroslav Lajcak of Slovakia, president of the 72nd General Assembly, officially opening the debate among states.

"Focusing on People -- Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet" is the theme Lajcak chose for the UNGA.

The first of 196 speakers listed is President Michel Temer of Brazil, traditionally the first state to speak in the General Debate, as the confab is officially known, followed by Trump.

There are differing stories on how Brazil became first on the list. One yarn is that no one wanted to be the first because they would be facing a restless audience of diplomats still getting settled-in and another is that a Brazilian had spoken first at earlier meetings and just stepped into the slot. Nonetheless, Brazil has been first since the 1950s.

With only 193 member states in the United Nations, the total of 196 is reached because the European Union, the Holy See and the State of Palestine also were invited to speak.

The suggested time limit for speeches is 15-minutes, but many speakers went over the limit, notably Cuba's late President Fidel Castro who once spoke for almost five hours.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley set an aggressive tone for Trump earlier in the year, saying when she first entered the 39-story Secretariat dominating headquarters campus that she was "taking names" of nations not cooperating in the U.S. quest for U.N. reform.

Reform runs from streamlining the organization's bureaucracy, through funds spent on peacekeeping operations, to the makeup of such bodies as the 15-member Security Council. Suggestions range from changing the budget from a two-year plan to one-year, and increasing council membership, including the number of permanent members, not to mention just streamlining operations.

The current general budget runs about 5.4 million U.S. dollars, with peacekeeping costing another 8.4 million dollars.

There are many other topics sure to be discussed either in the great General Assembly hall or on the margins of the debate in bilateral discussions between leaders of states.

Scores of cubicles with eight chairs and small occasional tables each, graced with Oriental-style rugs, have been set up in available lobby spaces for such meetings.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 00:10:46|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani said Monday that the Iraqi Kurdish independence vote could be detrimental to the regional people.

Iraq and its neighboring countries, including Iran, are strongly opposed to a unilateral plan by the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government to hold an independence referendum, Larijani was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency.

The move could create problems, including economic losses, for the Iraqi nation, he stressed.

In addition, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani said on Sunday that Iran would close its borders with the Iraqi Kurdistan if the region decided to secede from Iraq, Tasnim news agency reported.

The border agreements between Iran and the Kurdistan region were based on an integrated Iraq, said Shamkhani, stressing that "Iran definitely recognizes only the united, integrated and federal government of Iraq."

He warned that Iran would end its current military and security agreements with Erbil and renew its border security policy with the region, if the Kurdish regional government insisted on holding the referendum.

He also said that Iran might reconsider its stances and adopt different approaches to fight off the anti-Iranian groups in the Iranian Kurdistan region, if the vote is to continue.

Therefore, the Kurdish leadership should think twice and give up the independence referendum plan to avoid the "anti-security process" across the region, he added.

On Monday, a representative of Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government to Tehran reportedly said that there was still possibility to postpone the independence referendum.

"The Kurdistan Regional Government is studying the proposals by Turkey and the western states over the scheduled vote," Nazim Dabbagh told Iran's Farsi language Etemad newspaper.

"In case there are required guarantees for the rights of the Kurds, they will drop the independence referendum for the time being," Dabbagh said.

Moreover, Iraq's Supreme Court on Monday issued a verdict to stop the independence referendum.

On June 7, Iraq's Kurdish region announced that it had planned to hold a referendum on independence on Sept. 25 to decide whether or not to secede from Iraq.

Iran's political and military officials have announced their opposition to the Iraqi Kurds' referendum.

Turkey, Iran and Syria see that such a step would threaten their territorial integrity, as large populations of Kurds live in those countries.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 00:20:55|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Sep. 18 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn held talks with religious leaders and elders on the weekend to urge them to help resolve deadly clashes along the boundary of two regional states, state media reported Monday.

In a discussion held at his office, the premier said the federal government is trying to create sustainable solution to the boundary dispute between Oromia and Somali, according to Radio Fana.

The elders and religious figures expressed commitment to work in collaboration with the government to restore peace.

Ethiopia's biggest regional states Oromia and Somali have been locked in a dispute over the delineation of their common boundary for almost two decades.

A referendum in October 2004 was supposed to demarcate the boundary between the two regional states, but its implementation has been stalled ever since with both sides accusing each other of non-compliance with the referendum results.

Over the past week, heavy clashes along the Oromia-Somali boundary spilled into ethnic violence which has left scores of people dead and tens of thousands displaced.

As part of the efforts to calm the situation, the Ethiopian federal government announced on Saturday roads that cross both regional states will be guarded by the federal police and security forces of both regional states will withdraw from border locations.

In addition, the statement from the federal government said it will engage in disarmament of weapons held by civilians in the area of the conflict.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 00:30:57|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopia on Monday revealed plan to benefit some 250,000 urban dwellers through the urban safety net program during the recently commenced Ethiopian 2017-2018 fiscal year.

Revealing the East African country's plan to provide support for some 250,000 urban dwellers on Monday, Menen Meles, official at the Ethiopian Urban Job Creation and Food Security Agency, indicated that Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa are among the 11 Ethiopian cities covered in the safety net program.

The program, launched in the second half of the last Ethiopian fiscal year, envisaged to support the urban poor, who are facing challenges of chronic food insecurity, towards self-sufficiency.

Evaluating the program's ongoing performance, the Ethiopian government has planned to expand the initiative to 972 towns in the coming ten years period, it was indicated.

The program has been commended by the Ethiopian government for achieving its targets and lifting thousands of economically deprived urban dwellers towards food-security.

The program, during the past six months of period, has benefited more than 189,000 urban poor, the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) recently quoted the agency as saying.

According to the agency, some 159,000 beneficiaries were supported through job opportunities provided as part of the program, while more than 30,400 elderly and people with disability benefited from food supplies.

The 450 million U.S. dollars budgeted program, which invites beneficiaries to participate in various developmental activities including environmental rehabilitation and greenery, dry waste disposal, and urban agriculture, envisaged to benefit close to 605,000 urban poor people in three years.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 01:11:20|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

VILNIUS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Lithuanian police announced Monday they had seized more than half a ton of hashish with a street value of around 5 million euros (6 million U.S. dollars), in what is one of the largest drug cargoes confiscated in the country's history.

According to the Lithuanian criminal police bureau, the drugs were found following a large-scale international operation that took place in the first two weeks of September.

Police detained eight suspects from Lithuania on charges of international drug trafficking. They could face 15 years in prison or life sentences.

"During the operation, one of the largest quantities of narcotic substances in Lithuanian history have been taken out of the market," chief of Lithuanian police Linas Pernavas told a press conference on Monday.

Based on counterintelligence information, the drugs are believed to have been destined for Russia, Lithuanian police said in a press release, although this is not yet certain.

According to Pernavas, the cargo was too large for the Lithuanian market, a small Baltic country with a population of less than three million people.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 01:16:25|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

BRUSSELS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The European Border and Coast Guard Agency, or Frontex, said on Monday that around 12,200 migrants illegally entered the European Union (EU) in August.

According to a statement of the agency, the total number of illegal border crossings by migrants in the first eight months fell by two-thirds from the same period of last year to approximately 142,700.

In August, the number of migrants arriving in Italy through the Central Mediterranean route fell 60 percent compared to the previous month to 4,500. This was the lowest monthly total since January.

So far this year, nationals of Nigeria and Guinea made up the largest number of the detected migrants on the Central Mediterranean route, which accounts for two-thirds of illegal border crossings into the EU.

However, migratory pressure on the Western Mediterranean route remains high, as the migrants crossed this route in August reached an estimated 2,400, more than twice the figure from a year ago.

In the first eight months, the number of migrants crossing into Spain stood at an estimated 13,600, nearly three times the figure from the same period of 2016.

The number of migrants arriving in Greece in August stood at 4,200, nearly a quarter more than in the previous month. Most of them are Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 02:01:41|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

by Christine Lagat

NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's agency in charge of promoting cohesion and some corporations on Monday raised alarm over proliferation of fake news, terming the phenomenon a threat to peace, stability and economic growth.

A senior official at National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and industry executives decried the spread of fake news through social media platforms and urged punitive action on the culprits.

"We are concerned about the spread of fake news that is deliberately designed to stir ethnic emotions or violence. We want the online community to help us stem hatred that is being spewed on social media," Joseph Nasongo, NCIC commissioner, said in a statement.

The agency in charge of cohesion in conjunction with Kenya's mobile telecommunications firm Safaricom and media houses had organized a forum to discuss the threat of fake news that has worsened during this election cycle.

Nasongo said NCIC is reviewing fake news distributed online with a view to recommend prosecution of authors who usually camouflage their identity.

"We are investigating 273 cases of hatred speech on social media although there are many others that have not been reported. Our aim is to curb spread of content that may evoke violence," said Nasongo.

Kenya has witnessed proliferation of fake news ahead of the repeated presidential elections slated for Oct. 17 as directed by the country's apex court that annulled the Aug. 8 polls over irregularities.

Industry chiefs warned that fake news are not only a threat to peace but has also hurt Kenya's investment climate.

Stephen Chege, Head of Corporate Affairs at Safaricom, said that businesses are spending colossal amount of money to acquire tools that filter false information on digital platforms.

"Fake news is costing listed companies a fortune at the National Securities Exchange and businesses are investing more resources to be able to review, filter and deal with false information that may affect their operations," said Chege.
The Chinese naval fleet docks at the port in Vladivostok, Russia , on Sept. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

The exercises are scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea.

It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.

The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 02:21:48|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

Tang Dengjie, head of the Chinese delegation to the UN atomic agency IAEA's 61th General Conference, speaks during the IAEA's 61th General Conference in Vienna, Austria, Sept. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Pan Xu)

VIENNA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China has followed a rational, coordinated and balanced nuclear safety and security approach in developing nuclear energy, a senior Chinese official said on Monday.

Tang Dengjie, head of the Chinese delegation to the UN atomic agency IAEA's 61th General Conference held in Vienna, made the remarks while addressing the opening of the conference.

China stick to the policy for efficient development of nuclear power on the basis of safety and security, said Tang, who is also chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority and vice minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

The Nuclear Safety Law, which was passed earlier this month by China's top legislature or the National People's Congress, will provide a strong support for the safe and sustainable development of nuclear energy in China, he said.

Since the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011, comprehensive safety inspections have been carried out on all nuclear installations and facilities in China, Tang said.

Tang said China has been supporting the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to play a leading role in international nuclear security cooperation.

Last month, an IAEA expert mission visited China to carry out the International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS), which provided beneficial recommendations and suggestions for China to strengthen its nuclear security capability building.

China currently has 36 operational nuclear reactors and is building 20 more.

By the end of 2020, China aims to have 58 million kilowatts of nuclear power capacity in operation and more than 30 million kilowatts under construction.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 03:37:23|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

THE HAGUE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A special conference to boost local cooperation between the Netherlands and China in the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative was held Monday in The Hague, with hundreds of representatives from provincial and municipal governments and companies from both countries participating.

"The Belt and Road Initiative is important for China, the world, and especially for the Netherlands. The investment made by the Chinese government is enormous. The infrastructure challenge is never seen before and will connect more than 165 countries all over the world," said Henk Kool, president of the Netherlands-China Association (VNC in Dutch), and co-organizer of the event.

"It offers new opportunities for Europe and the Netherlands taking into account that the new infrastructure by land and by sea, starting in China and ending in the Netherlands," Kool said.

"There is no doubt the Netherlands will profit from this initiative. And that is why Dutch municipalities have to prepare themselves for this new development," he said.

"Dutch and Chinese municipalities have to connect and encourage their local companies to expand and to inspire and give a new impulse to the old urban ties," said Kool, whose association of volunteers has been engaged in promoting the friendship between the Netherlands and China for four decades.

The Belt and Road Initiative, put forward by China in 2013, is aimed at building the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road through concerted efforts of all related countries to benefit all participants by promoting unimpeded trade, financial integration, infrastructure connectivity and closer people-to-people exchanges.

On the first day of the event, delegations from Chinese and Dutch provinces and cities, together with companies in search of partners, attended the plenary conference and parallel sessions on various subjects of mutual interest such as sustainable urbanization, agriculture and food safety, going-global investment, education, cultural differences, and ethics.

A total of 29 sister cities have been paired between the two countries since Shanghai and Rotterdam became sister cities in 1979, according to Song Jingwu, vice-president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), which launched the event together with VNC to create a platform for exchange and liaison.

"Local cooperation, for which sister-city relations constitute an important channel, lays an important basis for bilateral relations. We do hope that participants of this conference explore new ways of cooperation brought by the Belt and Road Initiative and build closer links," said Song.

"I have experienced that meeting each other face-to-face is important to develop mutual understanding and to identify opportunity for cooperation. And that a strategic approach involving businesses is crucial to translate these opportunities into tangible results," echoed Jaap Smit, the Dutch King's Commissioner in the province of Zuid-Holland, of which The Hague is the capital city.

The sister cities of Zuid-Holland and the Chinese Province of Hebei were recognized as exemplary by the Chinese government in 2010.

For Wang Xuefeng, deputy chairman of the Standing Committee of Hebei Provincial People's Congress, Dutch knowledge on climate change, green cities, water management, and soil remediation had greatly contributed to the pursuit of sustainability in his province.

Another voice supporting cooperation at the local level was the Dutch foreign ministry.

"Next to exchanges at national level, numerous contacts take place at sub-national level. The steady flow of exchanges forms the bedrock of our relationship," said Yoka Brandt, Secretary-General of the Dutch foreign ministry.

"This year our country is celebrating 45 years of diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level with China. Over these 45 years, we have witnessed China's unprecedented transformation. China has now well established itself as the world's second largest economy and is playing an increasingly important role on the global stage and is therefore essential to finding solutions to global challenges," Brandt told the conference.

"Forty-five years ago, there were less than 1000 people-to-people visits between our two countries. The figure now is more than 1.3 million, among which are 300,000 Chinese tourists choosing the Netherlands as their first destination," noted Wu Ken, China's Ambassador to the Netherlands.

"Exchange and understanding between our people is the lubricant for the development of bilateral relations," Wu said.

Recalling the establishment sister cities Rotterdam and Shanghai, and between Eindhoven (headquarters of the Dutch giant Philips) and Nanjing nearly 20 years ago, Peter Potman, director of Asia Pacific at the Dutch ministry of foreign affairs, said that back then, the relationship was about the Dutch companies investing in China.

"Now the world is shifting and the relationship between the Netherlands and China is shifting. In the future, it will become more important for Chinese businesses to come to the Netherlands," Potman said.

"The cities and provinces supported by the national government should work very hard for making the shift from 'going out to China' to concentrating more on getting Chinese visitors to the Netherlands," said Potman, who served as Dutch consul-general in Shanghai for more than three years.

"And our ministers should not only go to Beijing and Shanghai but also to Hainan, Guangdong, Sichuan and beyond. Because that is where the future is taking place. That is also the meaning of the Belt and Road Initiative -- linking cities, companies, provinces and people," he concluded.
The Handmaid's Tale cast and crew pose with their Emmys in Los Angeles, California, U.S., Sept. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/REUTERS)

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Veep" ruled this year's biggest night in U.S. television on Sunday, thanks to Emmy wins for outstanding drama and comedy series. "Big Little Lies" and "Saturday Night Live" were also big winners.

"I know the world is getting crazy, but look on the bright side -- TV is getting better," said Stephen Colbert of "The Late Show," who hosted the Emmys.

Hulu's "The Handmaid's Tale" was crowned best drama series, also earning Elisabeth Moss a best actress and Ann Dowd a best drama supporting actress and winning best drama directing for Reed Morano and writing for Bruce Miller. The victory is a huge win for the streaming service.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus holds her Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Comedy Series for Veep in Los Angeles, California, U.S., Sept. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/REUTERS)

HBO's "Veep" won the Emmy Award for comedy series, while its star, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, took home her unprecedented sixth consecutive win for playing fictional politician Selina Meyer. No other performer has been honored with more Emmys for a single role.

"This is and continues to be the role of a lifetime and an adventure of utter joy," said Louis-Dreyfus when she took the stage.

In limited series category, HBO's "Big Little Lies" came out on top, winning for best series, for actors Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern and Alexander Skarsgard, as well as for writing and directing.

"It's been an incredible year for women in television," said costar and producer Reese Witherspoon. "Can I just say bring women to the front of their own stories and make them the heroes of their own stories. Thank you for that opportunity and for audiences to wrap their arms around us."

Nicole Kidman, who won her very first Emmy, said the project came about because of the frustration that as women "we weren't being offered great roles." "So, now, more great roles for women please," she said.

The NBC's "Saturday Night Live" picked up wins for best variety sketch series, directing for seven-time Emmy winner Don Roy King and in acting categories for Kate McKinnon and Alec Baldwin.

"I suppose I should say at long last Mr. President, here is your Emmy," Baldwin said when he opened his acceptance speech for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series for his work impersonating U.S. President Donald Trump on "Saturday Night Live."

John Lithgow, who has now won a total of six Emmys, won this year for supporting actor in a drama series for his performance in the Netflix drama The Crown.

The Emmy for outstanding variety talk series goes to "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" for the second consecutive year.

"Game of Thrones' was absent from this year's Emmys, because it wasn't eligible. To qualify for this year's ceremony, a program had to air episodes between June 1, 2016 and May 31, 2017.

The HBO's decision to push the recently concluded seventh season of "Game of Thrones" from its usual spring slot to the summer made the episodes ineligible for the 2017 awards.

Last year, the show had taken home 12 awards from 23 nominations. Colbert jokingly thanked "Game of Thrones" for not being eligible for Emmys this year, making room for other shows to win.

This has also been a good year for diversity in TV.

Riz Ahmed won outstanding lead actor in a limited series for his portrayal of Nasir "Naz" Khan in "The Night Of."

Ahmed is the first male actor of Asian descent to win an Emmy award for acting. The Good Wife's Archie Panjabi won outstanding supporting actress in a drama series in 2010.

"I want to say it is always strange reaping the rewards of a story based on real world suffering," Ahmed said in his Emmys acceptance speech. "But if this show has shown a light on some of the prejudice in our societies, xenophobia, some of the injustice in our justice system, then maybe that is something."

Sterling K. Brown won his second back-to-back Emmy for his role in the series "This Is Us" and in his speech honored Andre Braugher, who was the last black man to claim top drama performance honors, for "Homicide: Life on the Street" in 1998.

"It does feel different but for different reasons. I'm the first African-American in 16 years nominated. That kind of blows my mind," he said.

Lena Waithe became the first African-American woman to win an Emmy for outstanding writing for a comedy series, for Netflix's "Master of None," sharing the award with series co-creator Aziz Ansari, who is of Indian heritage.

Netflix's "Black Mirror" episode "San Junipero" also won a lot on Sunday. Creator Charlie Brooker won writing for a limited series or movie, and later the episode picked up the Emmy for TV movie.

"Go home, get to work, we have a lot of things to fight for," Bruce Miller closed the show with a thank you and a call to action.

The 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony was held at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday evening, and was aired on the CBS.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 05:12:55|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

RABAT, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Moroccan city of Casablanca will host a new edition of Africa Security Forum on October 8-10, organizers announced on Monday.

The 2017 edition will bring together more than 400 participants from 45 different African nations to discuss the Inter-African cooperation in the face of terrorism, radicalization and transnational crime, the president of the forum Driss Benamer told a press conference to shed lights on the forum.

It will feature three main topics, namely terrorism, cyberspace, and new vectors of radicalization; the new challenges of migration and transnational criminality and the Inter-African cooperation and its new challenges, he added.

"The Africa Security Forum, by adopting a broad and comprehensive approach in an open engagement on these problems, hopes to contribute meaningfully to finding innovative answers for our partners and colleagues across the African continent," he underlined.

The forum is organized by Atlantis Center for Geostrategic Research and Studies, a research body that seeks to develop actionable proposals and actively participate in the ongoing global discourse on social, economic and geostrategic topics from security, stability, and safety perspectives, the Center's core areas of expertise.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-19 05:38:01|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

KIEV, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Ukraine on Monday signed here a framework agreement to push forward their cooperation in film and media industries.

The deal was inked during the 7th International media forum "Kiev Media Week" by Tian Yuhong, vice president of China Radio International (CRI) and Zurab Alasania, director general of the Public Broadcasting Company of Ukraine (PBCU).

The agreement stipulates for airing Chinese films on the Ukrainian TV and lays the foundation for the joint production of media content between the two countries.

As a part of the agreement, four Chinese TV series and movies will be aired this season in prime time by the PBCU, which covers about 97 percent of the Ukrainian territory.

The number of Chinese films on the Ukrainian screens is expected to further expand in the future.

"The catalog of the films is very large. We have been discussing them for a long time. We, the members of the television crew, really like them," Alasania told Xinhua after the signing ceremony.

He said that the majority of the films will be dubbed into Ukrainian, while several movies will be broadcasted in Mandarin with subtitles, allowing the Ukrainian audience to gain greater insight into China.

In the future, Ukraine plans to broadcast its movies in China, Alasania said, noting that the two-way cooperation may become a cultural bridge between the two countries, helping their people to better understand each other.

Speaking on a possible co-production of media content between China and Ukraine, Alasania said it could yield good results given a wide variety of locations and experienced TV staff in Ukraine and modern media-production technologies in China.

Ukraine is very much interested in developing its cooperation with China in film and media industries, Alasania stressed, noting that his country still has much work to do ahead to reach high standards of Chinese content production.

The five-day "Kiev Media Week" kicked off in the Ukrainian capital earlier on Monday, with the participation of film and media industry professionals from 25 countries.

The PBCU, the largest state-run Ukrainian media company, is broadcasting content via two nationwide and 25 regional TV channels.
Police recover 100 stolen vehicles in 2017

According to data from the unit, the vehicles were stolen from mainly in Central, East and West Trinidad area.

Last week Friday, officers of the unit which is based at the Arouca Police Station, arrested a man whom they described as the Don of the car stealing racket.

According to a police report, the unit recovered several vehicles last week that were reported stolen by their respective owners. This brought the total to approximately 100 vehicles which have been recovered in bushy areas and at what police have described as well-outfitted garages.

The report stated that for 2017, the type of stolen vehicles recovered consisted of B-12, B-13, B-14, B-15s, Almeras, Laurels, Tiidas, Elantras, Toyotas, Navarra Hilux, Mazdas and even a Range Rover.

According to the report, most of the vehicles were stolen from North Trinidad. The second largest was from East Trinidad in places such as Tunupuna, St Augustine and Arouca.

The members of the unit who retrieved the vehicles from garages and from abandoned tracks and dirt roads were: Inspector Robert Joseph, Cpl Joel Sifontes, PCs Valmiki Lalsingh, Joel Keer, Leon Paul and WPC Rhonda Reyes.

The report further noted that 40 percent of the stolen vehicles were repainted, chassis numbers defaced and the vehicles equipped with false registration plates. The report said investigations by the unit have led police to the conclusion that the purpose for which the vehicles were stolen as for the commission of a crime such as murders and robberies.

Approximately 75 persons have been arrested since January and are currently facing charges in the court.

According to the report, it appeared that car thieves were staking out vehicles at malls and major shopping districts. It also said many of the vehicles were stolen at gunpoint.
TT to feel effects of Maria

According to the Trinidad and Tobago Metorological Office, Maria was moving west-north west at 24 kilometres per hour.

Meteorologist Anton Wiltshire said Dominica was under a hurricane warning rather than a hurricane watch while St Lucia was under a tropical storm warning.

TS Maria is expected to be passing over Dominica and Guadeloupe, but because of the size of Maria she could affect other islands north of Dominica as well as south as far as St Vincent. He said TT would not be directly affected by Maria, but there was the possibility that we could be affected with instability associated with the passage of storm.

He explained that instability in the atmosphere could generate showers and thunder showers.

No more storms have been forcecasted after Maria, at least for now, which would be a relief after several islands were devastated after the passage of Irma and Jose, especially Antigua and Barbuda, St Martin and also the Florida Keys.

Barbuda was declared 95 per cent demolished as most of the buildings were destroyed. A hurricane warning is in effect for Dominica, while a hurricane watch was upgraded for Antigua, Barbuda, St Kitts, Monsterrat, Guadeloupe, Saba, St Eustatius, St Maarten, St Martin, St Barthelmy and Anguilla.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for St Lucia while a tropical strom watch is on for Martinique, Barbados, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Asked about the tremendous heat TT has been experiencing these past few days, Wiltshire attributed this to TS Maria.

She would be drawing a lot moisture into her and as she draws that moisture she is going to pull that moisture from over us and most of the islands that are south of her right now, he said.

Before 10 am yesterday, the Met Office had registered 34.6 degrees Celsius.
Melans body still In St Martin

Salvary-Doyles body was taken to Guadeloupe for an autopsy was then expected to be flown back to Trinidad for burial.

The grandmother of six was seeking shelter during the hurricane when she and her grandson were swept away in the flood waters.

W hen contacted yestterday, Antigua and Barbuda Foreign Affairs Minister Charles Fernandez said Salvary-Doyles return for her final farewell would be delayed for at least a couple of days since the helicopter that was being used during evacuation left around midday on Saturday for maintenance.

We were planning to return her body Monday or Tuesday and of course we have this threat from Tropical Storm Maria so everything had to be put on hold, Fernandez said.

In light of the possibility that Tropical Storm Maria may hit the islands again, the minister said by tomorrow they would decide whether to open shelters, depending on TS Marias path.

Asked if the islands were equipped to handle another storm ater Irmas devastation, Fernandez said: Nobody is ever really equipped for a storm or a hurricane, but we have a lot of relief for Barbuda and we are allowing them in a limited capacity to travel back and forth. We are going to try and make it the best we can. I think we will be pretty much okay for now, I dont know what the storm will bring depending on how devastating it is that is another story. We are as prepared as we can be I think, he said Previously Fernandez had stated that they had received more than enough relief supplies from several countries, but they were looking for financial aid to rebuild Barbuda which was amlsot totally torn apart.

However, he said it did not have to be just money, but building materials.

We have gotten some committments even if it is not financial because we are looking at rebuilding, so we think it would be appropriate to give building materials. We have a number of people who have come in and are committed to help rebuild our hospital and the schools so that is what we are doing so nobody has to put money and they are not sure how the money would end up We are quite prepared to say look, you dont have to put money.

You can send building materisals, you can work through your organisation to rebuild the schools. We dont want anybody to feel we just want the money to put in the bank and probably be misued. We also have an accounting firm to account for all supplies coming from the National Office of Disaster Services.

The director went publicly on television Saturday night and gave the assurance that everything is being accounted for, and he is quite confident that all the protocols necessary for transparency would be adhered to, Fernandez said.
Focus on CJ Archie as law term opens

Archie, who has been called on to resign as Chief Justice, following the imbroglio of the resignation of former chief magistrate Marcia Ayers-Caesar and who has adamantly said he will not be doing so, is expected to address the criticisms levelled against him and the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) of which he is chairman.

Questions have been raised on the JLSCs ability to make appointments since the resignation of two members, retired judges Roger Hamel-Smith and Humphrey Stollmeyer in June, particularly the appointment of seven new Masters to the Family Court.

There has been no announcement of replacements for either Hamel-Smith or Stollmeyer.

Todays ceremonial opening will begin with an inter-faith service at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Hart Street, from 10 am. Chief Justice Archie will then lead a short procession of judicial officers, lawyers and other dignitaries to the Hall of Justice on Knox Street.

Archie will inspect the Guard of Honour by the Police Service before making his way to Convocation Hall, where he will deliver his annual address and declare the new law term open. Rumours are also rife that in addition to leading members of the inner bar, several judges may also not attend todays opening.

Ayers-Caesars abrupt resignation in April, which in a lawsuit against the JLSC she has denied, left some 53 cases in limbo. While some of these preliminary inquires have restarted, others are still in doubt. There has been no official word from Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard on what action he will take on some of these cases, which includes decade-long murder inquiries.

Gaspard in May called for a definitive statement on the status of Ayers-Caesar, saying he could not exercise his powers unless he is officially told whether the former chief magistrate resigned.

Government has announced a decision to file an Interpretation Summons to have the court pronounce on the matter and sources say this is expected to be completed this week for filing.

At a meeting between Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar in mid-July, Persad-Bissessar rejected the proposal by the Prime Minister for a legislative resolution to the Ayers-Caesar debacle.

Ayers-Caesar was appointed a judge of the High Court on April 12 and resigned after prisoners whose cases were left unfinished rioted.

Ayers-Caesar is also challenging the revocation of her appointment as a judge and she will know next week if she has the permission of the court to pursue her legal action against the JLSC.
BPTT pledges annual scholarship for junior Renegades

The announcement was made at a private screening of the to be a Renegade documentary held for the band at the Government Campus Plaza Auditorium. Norman Christie, BPTT Regional President announced the new bursary by saying: One of the most powerful levers for change is education. To this end and in commemoration of the fourth consecutive Junior Panorama title won by the Junior Renegades, it is my pleasure to announce the establishment of the BPTT Renegades Bursary.

This annual bursary, will be offered to a member of the Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra who has been accepted to pursue tertiary level education at an accredited institution. Minister of Culture, Nyam Gadsby Dolly, Minister of Agriculture, Clarence Rambharat, former Mayor of Port of Spain Murchison Brown, former Minister of Culture Joan Yulle Williams and Nneka Luke, CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago Film Company were among those that attended the private screening of the BPTT sponsored documentary with BP Renegades band members, senior members friends and family of the Charlotte Street based steel orchestra.

Following the movie, Danielle A. Jones, BPTT Manager Corporate Communications recognised the family members of the BP Renegades for their support of the band and community: The greatest gift you can give a child is to expose them to the arts and culture of Trinidad and Tobago, said Jones, we (BPTT) thanks the parents, Aunties, uncles, grannies and grandparents for exposing their families to pan.. We even thank the godparents, like my godmother who first took me to push pan for the Renegades on Charlotte Street in the 1990s and helped inspire this film.
Naparima Girls walk for peace

Joined by their parents, teachers, friends and peers from other schools, the students walked from their school on La Pique Hill, along Pointe-a-Pierre Road, Circular Road, Royal Road, Coffee Street, Mucurapo Street, and back to their school, spreading the message of non-violence.Principal Caroline Bally-Gosine who led the procession of mainly Forms One to Upper Six girls expressed her pleasure at the turnout on the second week of the school term. It was only last week the students decided to stage the walk which was themed, Make a difference, stop the violence. Bally-Gosine said, We wanted to make a statement to stop all forms of violence. Domestic violence, where there is spousal abuse, children abuse, violence in the streets, bar fights, fights for little or nothing. She said that the theme was chosen not because it is topical, but because violence affects almost every family. Bally-Gosine said she hopes that the walk would have the effect of increasing awareness, especially among the San Fernando community.

We work hard to teach our girls that nobody, male, female, child, adult, should be subjected to any kind of violence. This society should be one where every citizen is able to walk freely, to do your business, exercise, live as you want to live without fear.

Fear is pervading almost every aspect of society now, she said.

Following the walk, the school was transformed into a health clinic, where past students who are medical doctors, returned to the school to conduct vision screening, blood pressure and glucose testing, along with representatives from the diabetes association. One parent, Dr Carol Ann Ramlakhan, was also on hand to conduct dental testing and offer advice, while Dr Sunil Persad and his wife, Dr Vanessa Harry, spoke to women on health issues
JSL Intl praised as workers receive benefits

The employees who were all part of the JSL Ocean Victory project, which ended in July, were paid their wages and were awaiting the payment of their benefits which included payment of prorated vacations and severance packages.

Managing Director of JSL International Javid Ramcharitar said the company has kept its promise to workers. He added that while many companies remain challenged by uncertain economic times, management recognised its debt to its workers and sought to fulfil its commitment to workers.

JSL has never remade on any outstanding payments owed to our employees and it is not our intention for the company to do so now.

We propose the prorated vacation to be paid during the months of August and September of which 90 percent has already been paid to our employees the remainder of which will be fully paid by September 25, he said.

Ramcharitar also confirmed that management was in receipt of severance letters of employees from the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR) during the month of September and assured workers that payments would be made within the months of October and November.

He urged trade unions and their members to be more cognisant of the challenges many companies now face as they attempt to navigate increasingly uncertain economic times, adding that poor industrial relations, deters future investment in T&T and further places the country at risk.

I am a national of Trinidad and Tobago, a father, a businessman and an employer with over 450 employees.

JSL is taking a stance, a stance against some of the members of the Oilfield Workers Trade Union in order to preserve the future of our company, our country and our investor interests, thereby ensuring job security for all of our families and our future generations to come.
Sallys Way takes Mayaro by storm

I really enjoyed the uplifting message of Sallys Way. It demonstrates that once you put your mind to it, you can overcome daunting challenges. There are young girls everywhere who face the same predicament as Sally, so the theme is very heartwarming. I think the acting was very good and it shows that there is great talent in the film industry in Trinidad and Tobago, said UTT student Adana Lambkin, 18, who lives in Mayaro.

Similar sentiments were offered by other movie-goers from Mayaro/ Guayaguayare for the film which was screened two weeks earlier in Carenage. Both screenings were facilitated by energy company BP Trinidad and Tobago and underscored the companys longstanding support of the arts and culture of Trinidad and Tobago, including the film industry.

Sallys Way chronicles the travails of Sally who is worried of being sent to an orphanage when her grandmother, her only living relative, is hospitalised. Taken in by the well-to-do Dindial family for whom her grandmother worked as a maid, Sally has to endure the taunts of the Dindial daughters and their unwelcoming mother.

She also faces bullying at school.

Buoyed by a positive attitude, Sally eventually wins over the Dindials and make her way by selling water to residents.

Welcoming guests to the screening, Kerneisha Prince-King, Manager of the BPTT Mayaro Resource Centre, pointed to some of the major cultural initiatives supported by BPTT over the years, such as multiple-Panorama champions BP Renegades and its equally successful junior band, the legendary Marionettes Choir and Pan-in-Schools Workshops.

We are very happy to offer the people of Mayaro/Guayaguayare the opportunity to view Sallys Way, which carries a very positive message of overcoming great odds, and to get an insight into the working of the local film industry. It is heartwarming to see so many children, accompanied by their parents, come out for this special occasion to make it a true family affair, Prince-King told the audience before the start of the film.
More sponsor support for ICATTs accounting conference

Already the event is gaining significant sponsor support with the addition of six companies to the line-up. Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA), Deloitte, EOG Resources, Ernst and Young (EY), KPMG and National Insurance Board of Trinidad and Tobago (NIBTT), a statement from ICATT said.

The conference will be held on November 9th and 10th and is to be held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on the theme  Driving the Upturn  The Transformation to Longer-term Prosperity which will focus on strategies to stimulate the local economy to achieve a sustainable recovery, the institute said.

The six new sponsors join existing gold sponsors, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), PKF, PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre Management Co. Ltd (TTIFC).

Silver sponsor is the CPA, affiliate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Caribbean (ICAC) and Bronze Sponsors include Baker Tilly Montano Ramcharitar, First Citizens Bank and Massy Group.
For Generations of our Fellow Citizens, Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh has remained A Living Legend, says President

New Delhi, Mon, 18 Sep 2017 NI Wire

The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind has written to Shri Arvind Singh, son of Marshal Arjan Singh, conveying his condolences on the passing away of Marshal Arjan Singh.

In his message, the President has said, I am extremely saddened to learn about the passing of our great and cherished air warrior and Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, DFC.

Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh was a hero of World War II and won our nation's gratitude for his military leadership in the War of 1965. He served the nation with distinction and was the first and only officer of the Indian Air Force who was honoured with the five-star rank as Marshal of the Air Force.

For generations of our fellow citizens, Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh has remained a living legend. His service to the nation continued even outside uniform, as Lt. Governor of Delhi, Ambassador of India to Switzerland and the Vatican, High Commissioner to Kenya and Member of the National Commission for Minorities. For his services and achievements, he was honoured with numerous awards including the Padma Vibhushan.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey these to other members of your family as well as the Indian Air Force community. I pray to the Almighty to give you and your family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss. The nation mourns with you.

Source: PIB
PM dedicates Sardar Sarovar Dam to the nation; attends closing ceremony of Narmada Mahotsav at Dabhoi

Gujarat, Mon, 18 Sep 2017 NI Wire

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, yesterday dedicated the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the nation. The occasion was marked by prayers and chanting of hymns at the Dam at Kevadia. The Prime Minister unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion.

Later, the Prime Minister visited the construction site of the Statue of Unity, an iconic structure dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, at Sadhu Bet, a short distance from the Sardar Sarovar Dam. He was given an overview of the progress of work at the site.

At a large public meeting in Dabhoi, the Prime Minister unveiled a plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone of the National Tribal Freedom Fighters' Museum. The occasion also marked the closing ceremony of the Narmada Mahotsav, which generated awareness about the River Narmada, in various districts of Gujarat.

Speaking on the occasion, he said the huge gathering shows the respect that people have for Maa Narmada. On the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti, he said that he salutes all those who are working to build the nation. Let us leave no stone unturned to build a New India by 2022, the Prime Minister exhorted.

The Prime Minister recalled Sardar Patel's vision of the dam. He said that both Sardar Patel and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar gave a lot of emphasis to irrigation and waterways.

The Prime Minister said lack of water resources has been a major impediment to development. He recalled visiting the border areas in the past, when BSF jawans did not have enough water. We brought Narmada waters to the border areas for the jawans, he said.

The saints and seers of Gujarat have played a very big role in the making of the Sardar Sarovar Dam, he said. The waters of the River Narmada will help citizens and transform lives, he added.

The Prime Minister said that in the western part of the country, there is water shortage, and in the eastern part, there is power and gas shortage. He said the Government is working to overcome these shortages, so that India scales new heights of development.

The Prime Minister said the Statue of Unity would be a fitting tribute to Sardar Patel, and would draw tourists from all over. He recalled freedom fighters from tribal communities, who fought against colonialism.

Source: PIB
Mustapha, the first Nigerian Laureate of the award, will be unveiled on Monday in Abuja.

UNHCR and the Norwegian Refugee Council said on Monday that Mustapha was chosen as the winner of the award for his humanitarian work in championing the rights of children.

They noted that Mustaphas NGO not only provides education for children but also caters to the needs of orphans, widows and abandoned children affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, thereby bringing succour to them.

In a statement issued in Geneva on Monday and made available to NAN, Mr Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said: Education is one of the most powerful tools for helping refugee children overcome the horrors of violence and forced displacement.

It empowers young people, equips them with skills and works to counter exploitation and recruitment by armed groups.

Conflict can leave children with physical and emotional scars that are deep and lasting as it forces them from their homes, exposes them to unspeakable atrocities and often rips apart their families.

The work Mustapha and his team are doing is of the utmost importance, helping to foster a peaceful coexistence and rebuild communities in North-Eastern Nigeria.

With this award, we honour his vision and services, Grandi said.

Speaking in Abuja, Mr Jose-Antonio Canhandula, UNHCR Representative to Nigeria, said that Mustapha was recognised for his efforts in championing the rights of children.

In addition to his education work, Mustapha has demonstrated a commitment to helping all parts of the society affected by the conflict which includes setting up cooperatives for widows and supporting nearly 600 women in Maiduguri.

The UNHCR recognises his role as a mediator between the government and the insurgents for the release of the 82 chibok girls and the 21 young women held captive by Boko Haram for two years, Canhandula said.

In a separate statement, issued by the Norwegian Refugee Council, its Secretary-General, Mr Jan Egeland, said that the recognition of Mustaphas brave works highlighted the importance of education for the future of Nigeria.

Schools lie at the heart of a society and destroying them crushes the chance of Nigerias next generation succeeding, Egeland said.

In his reaction to the award, Mustapha told NAN in Abuja that he felt humbled and honoured to be listed among great icons in the world for his humanitarian work in the North-East.

He said that the award would give impetus to his humanitarian works as his vision is for the activities of his foundation to serve as a template for peaceful reconciliation in the North-East and other parts of the country.

He said that in just a decade since its inception, the school had recorded tremendous success, which gives him the assurance that peaceful reconciliation through education and integration is achievable.

Mustapha told NAN that founded his NGO in 2007 to provide free education, meals, uniforms and healthcare to children and orphans among others, in an effort to engender peace and reconciliation.

We started with 36 students and have graduated more 1,000 students; enrolled 626 in 2017, more than half of whom are girls, including 186 IDPs with 5,000 on the waiting list.

These children include children from both the military and the Boko Haram and they have grown to see themselves as one.

If it continues like this, then we are sure of peaceful reconciliation and an end to the insurgency, Mustapha said.

NAN reports that the 2017 Nansen Refugee Award will be presented to Mustapha on Oct. 2, in Geneva.

The UNHCR Nansen Refugees award was established in 1954 and awarded annually to an individual, group or organization in recognition of outstanding service to the cause of refugees, displaced and stateless persons.

The award includes a Commonwealth medal and monetary prize of 100,000 dollars donated by the governments of Norway and Switzerland to begin a project in consultation with UNHCR, to complement the laureates existing work.
Governors and other opinion leaders moved swiftly from Thursday through Friday to effectively nip in the bud possible violence against southerners, especially Igbo residents in the North.

From Kano to Bauchi, Niger, Sokoto and Kaduna, governors warned against reprisal attacks in response to what they called happenings in the South East.

It was learnt that spirited efforts were made Thursday night and Friday morning by the governors, emirs and other leaders to prevail on Imams not to use the violence in the South East as themes of their Jumaat sermons.

Previous ethnic attacks in the North over the years were stoked during Friday prayers.

While commitments to peace were being extracted from Imams and other religious leaders, the governors followed up with tough security presence on the streets, press releases and broadcasts, warning against reprisal attacks by their people.

The governors also declared that security forces will remain at alert across the northern part of the country to forestall breakdown of law and order.

The spokesman of the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) and Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima, made this known in a statement on Friday, even as he commended residents across the North for being non-violent in the face of clashes between members of IPOB and soldiers in Abia State.

Kaduna

Following the dust-to-dawn curfew imposed in Jos, the Plateau State, capital by the state government as a result of the anti-Biafran protest, Igbo traders in Kaduna, on Friday, closed their shops for the fear of the unknown.

This was even as the state government and the police assured the citizens and residents of the state of the determination of the government to protect the lives and property of the people.

It was gathered that the leadership of the Igbo and Yoruba communities held a meeting with the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Agyole Abeh, on Thursday, in which he urged them to go about their normal businesses.

When Saturday Tribune visited the popular Ahmadu Bello Way, Ali Akilu Way, Jos Road, Abeokuta Street, Katsina Street, Lagos Street, Zaria Road, Benin Street and Warri Street where there were large concentration of Igbo shop owners, the shops and stalls were under key and lock.

Meanwhile, Jamatul Nasir Islam (JNI) has called on northern youths and Muslims all over the country to eschew bitterness and remain calm, even as it implored them not to hold any grievances towards any group or individual for the betterment of the country.

Addressing a press conference at its headquarters in Kaduna on Friday, the Secretary General of JNI, Dr Khalid Abubakar, said the call became imperative for JNI, as an Islamic body with the mandate to always ensure the peaceful co-existence of Nigerians.

Ganduje assures non-indigenes adequate security in Kano

In Sabongari Market and other commercial areas in Kano, shops and stalls belonging to Igbo traders were shut throughout Friday, for the same fear of reprisal attacks.

However, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, on Friday, assured non-indigenes living in the state that his administration would remain committed towards promoting peace and security.

He described as unfortunate the incidents in Abia State and some parts of the South East as an attempt to cause unnecessary tension and instability in the country.

The governor, who spoke during a meeting with leaders of different ethnic groups in Kano, however appealed to youths, especially in the northern part of the country not to engage in reprisal attacks.

We have called you to give you confidence and to let you know that we are not asleep. We are working very hard, coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure peace prevails, he said.

Governor Ganduje told the ethnic leaders that his administration was in contact with all relevant segments of the society, to ensure that nobody was harmed and that everybody goes about his business without fear of intimidation.

Also speaking, President, Ethnic Communities in Kano, Dr Jimpat Ayelangbe, urged the governor to use his influence among his colleagues to ensure that the national unity was not threatened in any part of the country.

Also commenting, President, Igbo Community in Kano, Chief Ebenezer Chima and the Chief of Edo Community, Chief Fred Akhegbe, disassociated their communities from what they described as unfortunate developments in the East, saying they would do everything possible to help in maintaining harmony and security in Kano

Shops under lock in Bauchi, as Gov Abubakar warns against breakdown of law and order

In order to ensure safety of lives and properties of residents, a joint security patrol was conducted round the Bauchi metropolis, the Bauchi State capital, on Thursday and Friday.

The security patrol which was made up of armed military, police and NSCDC personnel drove round the metropolis and later all the areas known to be flash points in order to nip any reprisals in the bud.

Most shops that belonged mostly to Easterners did not open for business, while those that opened operated on skeletal basis for fear of attacks.

When Saturday Tribune went round Bauchi metropolis it was noticed that Muslims went about their Jumaat prayers peacefully with some of the Imams, calling for restraint and caution in the country.

Meanwhile, the Bauchi State government has warned against the breakdown of law and order in the state by any group or individuals.

This was contained in a statement signed by Governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar who condemned in strong terms the disturbances in the South East region of the country and urged the people to desist from fanning the embers of disunity by spreading hate and falsehood statements especially on the social media.

I note with deep concern the needless disturbances in some parts of the South East, causing fear and uncertainty, especially in the affected areas. I, therefore, condemn strongly these callous acts and sue for calm, especially among those who feel hurt and aggrieved and may, therefore, be tempted to take the laws into their hands, he said.

Gov Bello warns against reprisal attacks in Niger

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger State issued a stern warning against any attempt to breach the relative public peace and tranquility in the state, insisting that the state is for all Nigerians.

The governor said the unfortunate security challenge in the South East, fueled by hate speeches, violent agitation, rumour and sentiment on social media, should not be the basis for any attempt at reprisal attacks on innocent citizens.

Bello, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, noted that it was the duty of the state government to protect lives and property of its citizens and would, therefore, not compromise in carrying out its constitutional responsibility.

The governor further said the state security apparatus has been mobilised and put on red alert to immediately commence patrol, particularly within the areas identified as hotspot, to nip in the bud any attempt to cause civil disobedience and unrest in the state.

He said the state government would not fold its arms and allow some overzealously repugnant individuals hold people to ransom by instilling fear, anxiety and tension among them for their selfish end

2 killed in Jos, Lalong sues for peace

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has disclosed that two people died in a fracas that ensued between the Igbo and Hausa in Jos, the capital of Plateau State on Thursday, declaring that the state however remains home for all, irrespective of religion, ethnic extraction or political affiliations.

The governor, who disclosed that two people were killed shortly after his meeting with leaders of various communities in the state, on Friday, said the meeting was a result of the tension and threat of reprisal attack by some people in the state.

He however assured the citizens and residents of the state of his administrations commitment to peace and stability, adding that everybody, irrespective of their tribes, religion and political affiliations, were free to reside in any part of the state and do their legitimate business without any fear of molestation.

The tension took us by surprise. I call on community and religious leaders to caution their wards at home as any culprit arrested would not go scot-free as nobody is above the law. I also want to assure all citizens that their security and welfare are paramount to my administration, the governor said.

He appealed to all religious and community leaders, neighbourhood vigilantes as well as all law-abiding people of the state to ensure that nobody was allowed to take advantage of the situation to engage in any criminal act.

In a related development, the Jamaatu Nasril Islam (JNI), Plateau State chapter, has appealed to the Muslim Ummah and the general public to shun acts capable of disrupting the hard-earned peace in the state.

Also, the Plateau Initiative for Development and Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN) appealed to the people and residents of the state to shun acts capable of disrupting the hard-earned peace in the state.

FG needs support to end agitations Masari

Against the backdrop of ongoing clashes between the military and IPOB members in the South East, Governor Aminu Masari of Katsina State has called for support for governments efforts to end agitations in the country.

Speaking in Abuja to State House correspondents after observing Friday prayers at the Aso Villa Mosque, he said the rise of agitations across the country must not be overlooked as it was with the Boko Haram during its early phase.

He said the near neglect of the insurgency earlier on almost made it uncontrollable, adding: When we heard of the problem of Boko Haram in this country when it started, we all looked the other way and it nearly consumed the nation.

So, under this circumstance, any agitation that is likely to lead the nation to the kind of problem we had, I think all Nigerians should support the government and put a stop to it.

The governor said his administration has taken all necessary measures to maintain peace in Katsina in the midst of rising tension in the country and assured of the safety of lives and property in the state, irrespective of the origins of the residents.

Wike warns IPOB to stay off Rivers

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has declared that the state government will not tolerate any attack on other Nigerians living in the state by members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) or any other group.

The governor said the state belongs to all those who live in it to carry their lawful businesses and accused operatives of the state Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of deliberately sabotaging the states security architecture.

Wike, in a state broadcast on the state security situation on Friday, said: Rivers people fully subscribe to Nigerias corporate existence and its indivisibility. As a people, we shall continue to support the unity and peaceful co-existence of all ethnic nationalities and work towards actualising our collective aspirations for a just, inclusive and progressive nation.

Muslims pray under tight security in Jigawa

Muslim faithful conducted their weekly Friday congregational prayers under tight security as security personnel cordoned off mosques and took over all the streets of Dutse, the capital city of Jigawa State.

Saturday Tribune gathered that the combination of heavily armed joint security personnel were drafted in all the mosques and other public places in the state capital and other major towns in the state, even as some teams of military, police, Civil Defense Corps, DSS and other security personnel were on patrol in Dutse.

When contacted, the Jigawa State Police Public Relation Officer, SP Abdu Jinjiri, said it was a show of force, adding that it was a routine security measure to keep in check members of the public and criminal elements in particular.

The Jigawa State police image-maker dismissed speculations that the security measure had anything to do with outbreak of crisis in some states, noting that our activity is not in any way in relation with any break of peace. We are peaceful here and security agencies are on top of all situations.

Jigawa State is peaceful. We are just conducting a show of force as a normal routine exercise to alert the residents of the state that we are physically and morally fit and able to protect their lives and property, nothing more than that, he said.

Nasarawa govt assures residents of safety

Nasarawa State government has assured residents of the state of their safety in the face of the ongoing crisis in the South East which is currently provoking reprisal attack in some parts of the North. The Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Silas Agara, gave the assurance shortly after a security council meeting at the Government House, Lafia, on Friday.

He stated that the security agents would embark on proper surveillance and people can go about their normal businesses without any fear of intimidation.

The deputy governor added that the state government and security agencies would continue to interface and strategise on how to continue to maintain law and order in the state.

OPC condemn deployment of soldiers, calls for dialogue

More condemnation has continued to trail the deployment of soldiers to the South East part of Nigeria as the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) described it as the militarisation of some part of the East under the Operation Python Dance.

The group described the deployment of the troops as the obvious attempt to arrest the growing influence of the Nnamdi Kanu-led IPOB, even as it canvassed dialogue to the military option in resolving the issues at stake.

OPC, in a statement signed by its publicity secretary, Yinka Oguntimehin and made available to Saturday Tribune, also said the agitation of IPOB would be fruitfully addressed through dialogue rather than the military option being adopted by the Federal Government.
The Turkish Embassy in Nigeria has restated its commitment to the territorial integrity and political unity of the country.

The Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Nigeria has said it was committed to the territorial integrity and political unity of the country.

It denied supporting the secessionist agitations in the country and further disowned a Turkish citizen, Abdulkadir Erkahraman, who has been drumming support for the Biafran agitation.

He has also posted videos online accusing President Buhari of committing genocide.

But the mission in a statement on Saturday said Erkahraman is not a Turkish diplomat or an official representative of the Turkish government.
The Ugandan State Minister of Health for General Duties Sarah Opendi went undercover to catch corrupt health workers in the country.

The minister, dressed in a hijab, visited a hospital on a motorcycle.

There, a nurse told her she had to pay 5,000 shillings to take a blood sugar test.

The minister said she had heard health workers were demanding a bribe to carry out free treatment. She said: I received many complaints that the staff at the hospital was extorting money from patients.

After paying, the minister called policemen to arrest the health workers who solicited for a bribe from her.
In recent weeks, there have been uproar in the South-East of the country due to the Operation Python Dance by the Nigerian army, where many were killed and several people seriously injured. This act of dictatorship by president Buhari has raised a lot of unanswered questions, whether the country has gone back to the military era. In a post published on HuffingtonPost, Bruce Fein referred to president Buhari as a dictator. Read on

The United Nations will live in infamy for lending its megaphone on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, to Nigerias elected military dictator Muhammadu Buhari.

The Hausa-Fulani Muslim strongman is currently orchestrating genocide as defined by the Genocide Convention against Nigerias 50 million Igbo people because of their ethnicity and unwavering devotion to Christianity. Buharis genocide marks the culmination of a long train of Biafran subjugation by radical Hausa-Fulani Islamic terrorists. The dictators power is anchored to an illegitimate constitution decreed by a military dictator in 1999 to hold the Christian Biafran people in bondage to Hausa-Fulani Muslims. Nigerias constitution has never been approved by Nigerians.

Last June, Buhari tacitly endorsed a Hausa-Fulani threat to expel by force and violence and to plunder 11 million Igbos in twelve northern Nigerian states that have adopted Sharia as their legal codes if they did not abandon their Igbo homes and businesses by October 1, 2017. During the past few years in northern Nigeria, Hausa-Fulani terrorists have destroyed thousands of churches and religious schools and displaced millions of Christian Biafrans.

Hundreds of innocent civilians have died and more have been injured or terrorized by Nigerias military acting under Buharis direction in the last week alone. A courageous and influential Biafran leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has had his home attacked and quarantined by Nigerias armed forces and his followers killed. Grisly videos and photos taken at scenes of the harrowing crimes are conclusive. What they prove amounts to state terrorismthe systematic employment of violence to intimidate or coerce a civilian population.

Instead of providing Buhari a megaphone, the United Nations should be expelling Nigeria from membership under Article 6 of the United Nations Charter. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) should be referring the dictator and his henchmen like Army Chief of Staff Lt. General Tukur Yusuf Buratai to the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Fatou Bensouda, to investigate for complicity in genocide. The UNSC should also be imposing an arms embargo on Nigeria under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter until the right of the Biafran people to self-determination is secured through a free and fair referendum conducted by the United Nations Electoral Unit. At present, dictator Buhari is diverting arms purchased for ostensible use against Boko Haram, an international terrorist organization, to the terrorizing of Biafran Christians. Buhari has no interest in defeating Boko Haram because its threat triggers military and financial assistance from the United States in its global war on terrorism.

These sanctions against Nigeria would honor twin objectives of the United Nations: (1) to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained; and, (2) promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as toreligion.

The genocide of Biafrans is not a domestic matter within the exclusive jurisdiction of Nigeria. Genocide is a crime against all of mankind which concerns every country. Moreover, if dictator Buhari is permitted to kill and enslave Christian Biafrans with impunity, Nigeria could degenerate into a Hausa-Fulani Islamic theocracy and could become a state sponsor of terrorism. Nigerias example would embolden the persecution of Christians elsewhere.

Nigerias 190 million inhabitants make it the most populous nation in Africa. It is a model not only in West Africa but throughout the continent. It is too important for its fate to be left to the roll of the dice.

The international community planted the seeds of contemporary Nigerian and African strife by arbitrarily carving up the continent in favor of colonial powers at the1884-1885 Berlin Conference. The United Nations is saddled with a moral obligation to help remedy the dystopias spawned by many of its key members.

While the suffering and persecution of Burmas Muslim Rohingya have captured headlines and the attention of the United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights, Zeid Raad al-Hussein, Nigerias far worse oppression of Biafrans has been largely ignored. It is difficult to resist the conclusion that the international human rights community squints when blacks kill blacks.



Disclaimer: Express that the thoughts expressed do not belong to Nigeriana but are of Bruce Fein, Contributor, Constitutional Scholar as found on Huffingtonpost
A Zimbabwean woman has denied enriching herself to $3.6 million in false tax returns, saying her dead husband is the one did it.

She was last week slapped with a 10 year sentence in federal prison.

Callista Suzena Chiwocha, 64, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker in Grand Rapids to the maximum penalty, the report by the MichiganLive says.

It continues: Her husband, Tapera Albert Chiwocha Sr., 75, died in July while awaiting sentencing.

This may have been Ms. Chiwochas first experience breaking the law, but she did it in a big way, Jonker said.

Others have already been sent to prison in what the U.S. Attorneys Office called an extended family enterprise.

Former professor, wife plead guilty in $3.6 million tax scheme

Chiwocha was ordered to pay $3,627,401 in restitution. The judge also held her company, Human Services Associates LLC, which Chiwocha tried to dissolve during the investigation, responsible for the restitution.

The Chiwochas and Human Services Associates, LLC pillaged the U.S. Treasury for a period of 10 months in 2011 and reaped an enormous amount of illegitimate refund money  over $3.6 million  in the process, Acting-U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge said in a statement.

Their crime was brazen and outrageous and is the very type of crime that breeds cynicism about our tax system, which relies upon honest and voluntary compliance.

The couple sought $4.5 million in federal tax refunds by causing 3,228 false tax returns to be filed on behalf of others, many of them with little or no income. They tricked them into providing personal information after promising free stimulus money.

The tax returns included false reports of undocumented income and earned-income credit.

Callista Chiwocha had previously worked in banking and tax-return preparation, the government said. Before the scheme started, the Chiwochas were delinquent on house payments and had been visiting casinos, the government said.

The FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation, acting on tips, began investigating in 2011 and seized over 20 bank accounts, cash and four vehicles valued in all at $1.5 million.

Chiwocha sought a lesser sentence based on her age, her lack of prior criminal record and acceptance of responsibility.

Nonetheless, especially since she faces a severe sanction and the government is asking for the maximum penalty, she wishes the Court to understand that while she was a willing participant, she was not the originator nor, she contends, the prime mover or director of the crimes  , her attorney, Keith Turpel, wrote in a sentencing memorandum.

The scheme was brought to her and her husband. Her husband has since passed away. This has brought great grief to her.

He said his client grew up in Zimbabwe under an extremely patriarchal society where men led and women followed. She contends her husband got them into the scheme.

She knows she should have argued against the scheme but could not escape her upbringing and, frankly, her love for her husband.

She and her husband pleaded guilty March 7 to conspiracy to defraud the government. He died July 1, and the charge was later dismissed.
The beauty and ingenious design of Marrakech Menara airport were distinguished in a recent airport ranking of the most beautiful airports in the world.

Skyteam chose Marrakech Menara airport on top of the list thanks to the magnificent design that delves deep in Moroccos centuries-old architectural know-how.

The terminals ceiling is a steel structure clad in aluminum and includes windows that allow in plenty of natural light.

The windows also serve another purpose: instead of being made of glass, they are pyramids made of photovoltaic modules  and help to generate power.

Singapore Changi Airport came second in the ranking followed by Hamad International Airport.
Algeria has been repeatedly lambasted in reports by international rights watchdogs for its systematic discrimination against minorities, whether religious, linguistic or ethnic. Intolerance towards minorities is espoused at the state level as evidenced by the growing religious intolerance and persecution targeting the Ahmadi community, among other communities.

Religious minorities

Recently, HRW raised the alarm concerning the discrimination endured by religious minorities in Algeria following the arrest of the President of the Ahmadi sect Mohamed Fali on August 28 who is now in a prison in Mostaganem after he had been handed a 3-year jail sentence in absentia.

Scores of other Ahmadis have been imprisoned since June 2016 in a context where religious intolerance is espoused at the highest level of the state with government officials claiming that Ahmadis represent a threat to the majority Sunni Muslim faith, HRW said in a statement.

Facets of state persecution of this sect include denial of granting the right of forming associations or building mosques. Algerian authorities have also discriminated against the members of this sect in the civil service and officials have indulged in hateful speech against this community.

Algerian Christians and Jews, for their part, are threatened both by the state and fundamentalists. In its latest edition, the US Report on Religious Freedom in the Middle East indicates that Algerian Jews and some Algerian Muslims who converted to Christianity kept a low profile due to concern for their personal safety and potential legal and social problem.

According to Open Doors, an NGO monitoring religious rights, Christians in Algeria are facing increasing societal discrimination when it comes to renting homes, finding jobs and securing land or property to use as a place of worship.

For their parts, Jews saw their Synagogues being turned into mosques and their properties confiscated. Up to now, there is no single operating Synagogue in the country and Jews are often viewed as Zionists. This conflation between Zionism and Judaism has created an animosity towards Jews embraced at the state level.

Amazigh minority

The Amazigh community of Ghardaia, largely practicing the Ibadi branch of Islam, has also been subjected to discrimination and economically marginalized for decades.

Last May, Human Rights Watch, EuroMed Rights, Amnesty International, and Front Line Defenders have condemned in the strongest terms Algerias discrimination against the Amazigh (Berber) minority and called for dropping all charges against Kamaleddine Fekhar, a leading human rights activist and his 40 co-defendants.

The Algerian regime has been accused by local and international rights NGOs for its involvement and impartiality in the inter-ethnic clashes that hit the ancient city of Ghardaia.

In the densely populated Kabylie mountains, Algiers has long been attempting to suppress Amazigh activists. After its arabization policy failed, the state responded with a bloody repression of protests in 2001 in the region, leaving at least 160 dead in events that came to be called, Kabylies Black Spring.

The abuse by the Algerian security forces of Amazigh protesters will give birth to the movement for the independence of the Kabylie region (MAK), which has been gaining ground among the population of the restive towns and cities of Kabylie.

Led by Ferhat Mhenni who lives in exile in France, the MAK invokes a series of grievances the Kabylie region witnessed after the independence of Algeria. They blame the Algerian regime for seeking to eradicate their linguistic and cultural particularities by imposing an arabization policy coupled with economic marginalization.

Sub-Saharan migrants

Algeria was also rebuked in international human rights reports for its ill-treatment of Sub-Saharan migrants as it continues its summary expulsions of Sub-Saharan migrants and asylum seekers who were abandoned in harsh conditions on the border with Niger.

These arbitrary expulsions came amid a wave of anti-migrant populism expressed by senior political figures in the country, venting the sluggish economic growth on poor Sub-Saharans, most of whom have fled poverty and conflict in their home countries to look for work in Algeria or seek transit to Europe via neighboring Libya.

Algerias social media networks woke up recently to a shameful and outrageous campaign targeting sub-Saharan migrants after the launch of a racist hashtag in Arabic saying No to Africans in Algeria.

The Algerian social media were tarred by racist calls for cleaning Africans off Algerian cities, and forcing them out of Algerian borders.

Few days after the announcement of the migrant regularization campaign, a new Algerian political leader and former Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia (who was later on re-appointed Prime Minister) expressed statements verging on racism and hate speech against Sub-Saharan migrants in the country.

Speaking to Ennahar TV station, Ouyahya, Secretary General of RND political party, described Sub-Saharan migrants as a source of crime, drugs and other calamities. His racist statements showed fierce opposition to the governments attempt to save its face by giving sub-Saharans an opportunity to obtain residency status in Algeria.

The Algerian politician went on to refuse to consider migration from a human rights perspective saying with a hostile tone that the issue is part of state sovereignty.

Ouyahyas heinous stands against migrants and asylum seekers echo scandalous statements uttered last December by Advisor to President Bouteflika and ironically head of Algerias human rights commission Farouk Ksentini who bluntly accused sub-Saharans of spreading HIV in Algeria.

We Algerians are exposed to the risk of HIV contamination and other sexually transmitted diseases because of these migrants, he shamefully said last December.

The presence of African migrants and refugees in Algeria will cause Algerians several problems, Ksentini, a henchman of the military regime, had told Algerian media, adding that these migrants bring diseases to Algeria.

In Algeria, there is no place for minorities, whether religious, linguistic or ethnic, nor for alienated migrants fleeing wars and famines, seeking a better, safer life elsewhere.
A team of lawyers has embarked on legal proceedings to drop cases against 13 Mauritanian senators accused of taking money from the Presidents cousin Mohamed Bouatmatou, known as an opponent of the Mauritanian ruler.

The lawyers have requested the drop of the charges against the 13 senators in a request to the countrys court of appeal.

The lawyers using article 50 of the constitution believe that the defendants are being accused because of their opposition to the August 5 referendum.

Among the senator features Mohamed Ould Ghada, a harsh critic of President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz.

Ghada was arrested in his house in August by men in plain clothes after being prevented from crossing into neighboring Senegal.

He led the oppositions boycott of August 5 referendum. Parties opposed to the Mauritanian president said the referendum was a step towards extending Ould Abdel Azizs term.

The prosecutors office then noted that it had obtained corroborated information that several people planned corruption under an organized structure aimed at destabilizing the general peace.

Other senators are being investigated.

Bouatmatou, a business tycoon residing in neighboring Morocco, is accused by authorities of supporting President Mohamed Ould Abdel Azizs opponents.

The businessman is the Presidents cousin, but relations between the two men cooled down over the years following Abdel Azizs military coup.

Bouatmatou was forced to exile in Morocco after the regime sought to arrest him.
The Moroccan government announced its plan to build 800,000 housing units by 2022, in order to meet an increasing demand pushed by demographic growth and expanding urbanization.

Housing Minister Nabil Ben Abdellah explained in an address at the housing fair Al Omrane Expo 2017 in Casablanca that the government attaches priority to housing.

In this respect, he underscored the importance of the fair, the first of its kind held by leading real estate developer Al Omrane, which has been operating in the field of housing and public infrastructure for over 40 years.

Omrane Group remains the instrument of the State for the implementation of these policies in this field, he said.

We are pleased with the groups results and its position to achieve the targets aimed in particular at reducing the deficit to 200,000 units and offering new products, particularly in the rural world, Benabdellah said.

According to the Housing Ministry, the housing shortage between 2012 and 2016 is estimated at 834,500 units. Since 2000, over two million low-cost housing units have been built.

Housing demand has been increasing by 150,000 units every year, while annual housing production is only around 100,000 units.
The new Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Horst Kohler, who took up his functions on September 8 in New York, is planning to travel to the region, and the Secretary-General welcomed the plan.

Kohler looks forward to travelling to the region and engaging with the parties in a spirit of trust and compromise, a UN spokesman said in a statement.

The Secretary-General welcomed the intention of his Personal Envoy to travel to the region. He stressed the importance of the visit to help re-launch the political process in a new spirit and dynamic, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2351, the spokesman said.

Since he took office and until September 16, Kohler held meetings and consultations with the Secretary-General and senior United Nations officials, as well as with representatives of the parties and neighbors, Member States and the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, the spokesman said in the statement.

The new Personal Envoy for the Sahara has succeeded American Christopher Ross whose eight-year mediation left the status quo unchanged. His term was marred by partial reports, a worn out negotiation process devoid of prospects for progress and biased and unbalanced guidance to the UN, in addition to his connivance with Algeria and a willingness to change the parameters of negotiations.

Analysts are expecting Kohler, who boasts more than 35 years of experience in government and international organizations, to lead UN mediation in the regional dispute over the Sahara with pragmatism, unlike his predecessor.
Just one more try. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

During the course of its history as a hotly contested piece of legislation, then a polarizing law, the Affordable Care Act has flirted with death more often than James Bond. Now it finds itself in the crosshairs once again.

Politico reported on Sunday that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he is seriously considering holding a vote on a bill sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham and John Cassidy that would dramatically shift the funding of Americas health care from the federal government to individual states while gutting key provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

Just days ago, Republican senators had roundly dismissed the bills chances. But earlier in the week, Cassidy claimed he had up to 49 Republican votes lined up (though others suspect the number was lower). And Senator Graham has been somewhat successful in his efforts to rally President Trump, who had seemed disengaged with earlier Obamacare repeal endeavors:

Graham has publicly begged for Trump to help build support for the bill, and it appears to be paying off. The president asked about the Graham-Cassidy proposal in conversations this weekend in Bedminster, New Jersey, and is likely to call senators this week while he is in New York at the United Nations, the administration official said, though much of the work will be done on the senior staff level.

This time around, the GOP has a hard deadline: September 30, which the chambers parliamentarian has ruled is the last day this year that senators can use the budget-reconciliation process to pass legislation with only 50 votes. If Republicans did manage to pass the bill before then, the House would have to approve it as-is, since the Senate could not revise text after the deadline.

Graham-Cassidy, as its known, is far more ambitious than Republicans last attempt at killing the Affordable Care Act, dubbed a skinny repeal, which came within one vote of passing the chamber in July. The new bill is a veritable parade of horribles: It would replace the subsidies that are a key part of Obamacare with block grants, nix the individual mandate, end federal protections for preexisting conditions, and much more. (And no, it doesnt come close to passing the so-called Jimmy Kimmel Test Cassidy proposed as a standard of health care during a fleeting moment of compassion in May.)

JUST OUT: Here's a summary of the Graham-Cassidy repeal. Yes, it's that bad.



Spread far and wide if useful. pic.twitter.com/Z0bbj0qaPd  Andy Slavitt (@ASlavitt) September 13, 2017

As before, getting to 50 will be a steep climb. If any three Republicans vote no, the bill is toast, and if McConnell knows the bill wont reach that level of support, he probably wont bring it to the Senate floor, assuming he wants to avoid another humiliating spectacle like the one in July.

Rand Paul, the Senates resident crank, has already said he cant support the bill, calling it Obamacare lite. (He made similar noises on the previous repeal effort, though, and ended up coming around.)

John McCain, whose famous thumbs-down nixed the skinny-repeal effort in dramatic fashion, again protested the partisanship of McConnells legislative strategy on Sunday, endorsing the approach of Senators Lamar Alexander and Patty Murray, who have recently held bipartisan hearings on how to stabilize the Affordable Care Act marketplaces.

Maines Susan Collins and Alaskas Lisa Murkowski, two moderates who also voted against skinny repeal, have not taken a position on Graham-Cassidy. But their steadfastness in the face of overwhelming pressure to vote yes in July is not a good sign for Republicans, and Politico reported that Collins said the Planned Parenthood defunding is problematic.

Democrats and liberal activists have started to rally in earnest against the bill, though the miniscule amount of coverage it has received, after so many prior Obamacare-repeal news cycles, likely works in the GOPs favor.

And then theres the Congressional Budget Office, which will release an expedited score on the legislation at some point between now and September 30. However, the CBO announced on Monday that the score would reveal only the budgetary impact of the bill, not the expected health-care coverage loss. Whether Republicans would make the unprecedented move of voting on a massive piece of legislation without really understanding its effects on the insured remains to be seen, but there are some indications that they might take that radical step.

So, Republicans have a very long way to go in a short period of time to achieve their dream of exploding Americas health-care system. But it can, and just might, happen. In any case, well soon know if the Affordable Care Act can survive its latest near-death experience.

This piece has been updated to reflect the Congressional Budget Offices statement on Monday.
Bears Ears National Monument. Photo: Bob Wick/Bureal of Land Management

So far, most of President Trumps major achievements, such as they are, have consisted of simply canceling, delaying, or rolling back the accomplishments of his predecessor.

A leaked memo draft shows that Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke will perpetuate that trend when he unveils his recommendations for modifying ten national monuments, some of which were created by President Obama.

If the draft does not undergo revision, Zinke will call for trimming back the size of four monuments, including Utahs vast Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante  which together make up more than 3.2 million acres  as well as Nevadas Gold Butte and Oregons Cascade-Siskiyou. (The draft does not specify exactly how much land should be trimmed from the current designations.) He will also recommend that vast swaths of the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii and the Atlantic Ocean near Massachusetts be reopened to commercial fishing.

And, reflecting the Trump administrations reflexive pro-industry bent, he will recommend that the ten sites permit currently restricted activities like hunting, grazing, and active timber management.

Too often, it is the local stakeholders who lack the organization, funding and institutional support to compete with well-funded NGOs (non-governmental organizations), Zinke writes in the memo, pushing back against the resistance he has faced from left-leaning advocacy groups.

The report, which dates from August, is the result of a four-month review of 27 monuments ordered by President Trump. His administration had argued that past presidents had overreached in their application of the Antiquities Act, a 1906 law passed during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, which allows presidents to create national monuments from federal lands. President Obama designated the Bears Ears and Gold Butte monuments in December 2016, just weeks before leaving office.

Zinkes recommendations did not fulfill the worst fears of his opponents, who feared that he would eliminate some monuments altogether, or transfer control of them to private interests. But if President Trump follows through on them, he will face intense legal pushback from environmentalists, who will test to what extent the Antiquities Act can be used to reduce the footprint of national monuments, rather than expand it.

The review process had drawn scrutiny for its opaqueness, with environmental advocates complaining that there had been no window into the Interior Departments thinking.

Zinke, a former Montana congressman who arrived to his first day of work on a horse, has worked to present himself as an advocate for the great outdoors in the tradition of Roosevelt, Americas most famous environmentally minded politician. But as the New York Times reported in July, his Interior Department has been hard at work rolling back conservation laws.
The protest on September 17, 2017, in St. Louis, Missouri. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

The protests that erupted on Friday when a judge acquitted Jason Stockley, a white police officer, of first-degree murder in the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith, a black man, continued for a third day, with more than 80 people arrested on Sunday night.

In whats become a pattern, more than 1,000 peaceful protesters marched through downtown during the day, but overnight the situation became violent, with St. Louis police claiming that groups of criminals were creating chaos.

#STLverdict protest turned north on Grand. Now anchored on Grand in middle of SLU campus. pic.twitter.com/g9pY1d4NEp  Bryce Gray (@_BryceGray) September 17, 2017

For the third day in a row, the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive, Mayor Lyda Krewson said at a press conference early on Monday morning. This is unacceptable. Destruction cannot be tolerated.

At least 32 people were arrested earlier in the weekend for damaging property and blocking roads. Police said that around 8 p.m. on Sunday, a small group of protesters began breaking the windows of downtown businesses, then after 11:30 p.m. they ignored warnings to disperse. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, police clad in riot gear yelled Move back! at the remaining protesters, corralling demonstrators and then making arrests.

Reporters said that a short time later they heard police officers chanting, Whose streets? Our streets, adopting the line commonly used by protesters.

Police said officers were assaulted with rocks and unknown chemicals, and released a photo of weapons confiscated at the scene.

Officers confiscate weapons, guns, protective gear from a rioter. Suspect was taken into custody. #StLVerdict pic.twitter.com/2rObBhQHu8  St. Louis, MO Police (@SLMPD) September 18, 2017

Officers confiscate bottles with unknown chemicals used to against police tonight in downtown #stl pic.twitter.com/PUaJagBzn2  St. Louis County PD (@stlcountypd) September 18, 2017

Chief O'Toole - Those who set out to do damage were arrested & should be prosecuted. This is our city & we will protect it. #STLVerdict  St. Louis, MO Police (@SLMPD) September 18, 2017

Im proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight, police chief Lawrence OToole said at Mondays press conference.
Senator Bill Cassidy. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Earlier this year, Senator Bill Cassidy had claimed a role as his partys primary heretic on health care. The Louisiana Republican slaughtered all manner of party sacred cows, culminating in an emotional appearance with Jimmy Kimmel, where he promised to safeguard health care for the sick and vulnerable. What happened next was depressingly familiar. Cassidy stopped criticizing his team and got onboard with their plan, ceasing his heresies and voting reliably for the various, doomed iterations of repeal and replace that came up through the summer. This was a familiar story of a dissident in a polarized Congress yanked back into line by his leadership.

What happened after that is the unusual part. Having surrendered his independence, Cassidy did not merely settle for the quiet life of an auto-voting partisan. He has transformed himself yet again, this time into a tireless crusader for repeal. While even many of the staunchest right-wingers in Congress have been willing to let the Obamacare repeal crusade die, Cassidy has thrown himself almost single-handedly into its revival.

Cassidy has parted ways with his original co-sponsor, moderate Maine senator Susan Collins, with whom he hoped to build a bipartisan coalition, and is now partnering with South Carolina conservative Lindsey Graham. (The latter is now pleading with Breitbart to pressure the Republican leadership for a vote.) Cassidy-Graham is a plan to cut health-care subsidies  both Medicaid and tax credits for people on the individual market  by progressively deeper levels, up to one-third lower after ten years, after which point funding would end entirely unless reauthorized:

It would also allow states to weaken protections for people with preexisting conditions, giving insurers the freedom and incentive to segment their products, so that they charge less to healthier customers and much more to sicker ones.

If the repeal-and-replace fiasco has driven home any lessons, it is that there is no magic solution to the health-care-finance problem awaiting discovery. If you want to make health care affordable to people who are sick and poor, it has to be paid for by people who arent. Throwing the problem over to the states, and pretending those politicians can invent a solution that politicians in Washington could not, doesnt make the trade-off disappear. You can make any paeans you want to the genius of state government, but theres a reason no states other than Massachusetts (which got a federal grant) ever cracked the universal-coverage problem. Less money means less coverage. Letting healthy people buy plans that dont cover expensive conditions means people who do have expensive conditions pay a lot more.

Whats so odd is that Cassidy used to recognize this. Should Washington slash the amount of resources for making insurance affordable and throw the problem over to the states? Cassidy didnt used to think so. Theres a widespread recognition that the federal government, Congress, has created the right for every American to have health care, he said in March. What about the Republican proposal to let insurers sell skimpy coverage for less money? Cassidy used to avoid the usual euphemisms and admit this was what most people called terrible coverage. (I realized the way you lower premiums is that you have terrible coverage, he told the American Hospital Association in May.)

The old Cassidy believed health care had to be written with some care, working through committees. (I think anytime you bypass regular order in the Senate, the committees of jurisdiction, its a little bit problematic.) The new Cassidy wants to rush his bill into law through budget reconciliation, avoiding hearings and compressing debate.

And the old Cassidy believed the Congressional Budget Office had an important role in studying legislation: You have to have an umpire, even if the umpire occasionally gets it wrong, because otherwise you are only accepting analysis by people with motivations [to] define certain answers, and so I am very reluctant to disregard what the CBO score is, he said in March. The new Cassidy insists the CBO should be ignored: I just dont care about the coverage numbers, because their methodology has proven to be wrong, he now declares. And ours, frankly, empirically, is correct.

Whether the exact size of the coverage losses from a piece of legislation as vague as Cassidys can be calculated is a fair question. But theres no doubt cutting the federal subsidy by a third will make health care unaffordable to a huge number of Americans. Cassidys plan is to rush his bill into law as quickly as possible, before stakeholders or outside analysts can get a proper handle on its enormous effects.

There is no generally circulating theory to explain Cassidys reversal. Behavior that can be adequately explained by ignorance usually does not require venality. Few politicians are public policy experts. Cassidy used to believe there was no magic way around the problem of financing health care for people who cant afford it, a finding that inconveniently put him at odds with his partys long-standing promises. Now he has probably found a right-wing health care expert who has explained to him that such a solution actually exists, if you simply transform concepts like state flexibility and innovation into a magic elixir. Whatever the explanation, the brief moral awakening of Bill Cassidy has come to a screeching halt.
Tillerson said theyre evaluating the situation. Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Images

When President Trump canceled what he called President Obamas completely one-sided deal with Cuba back in June, he announced new travel and business restrictions, but left diplomatic relations intact and the U.S. embassy in Havana open. Now, however, the administration says the embassy may close due to a bizarre attack on American diplomats.

We have it under evaluation, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday on Face the Nation of a possible closure. Its a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered. Weve brought some of those people home. Its under review.

At least 21 American diplomats and their family members have experienced strange health symptoms in the last year, including permanent hearing loss, mild traumatic brain injury, loss of balance, severe headaches, brain swelling, and concentration problems. Others have experienced temporary nausea, headaches, and ear ringing.

The cause is still unknown, but its believed that they experienced some kind of sonic attack. Some reported vibrations or loud sounds that were only audible in parts of rooms, while others heard nothing but developed symptoms.

Some victims felt vibrations or heard loud sounds mysteriously audible in only parts of rooms, leading investigators to consider a potential sonic attack. Others heard nothing but later developed symptoms. The Americans began reporting the incidents in November 2016, and the last incident occurred on August 21, just a few weeks after the issue became public.

Initially the Cuban government was at the top of the list of suspects, but their response has called that theory into question, as the AP reported over the weekend:

In a rare face-to-face conversation, Castro told U.S. diplomat Jeffrey DeLaurentis that he was equally baffled, and concerned. Predictably, Castro denied any responsibility. But U.S. officials were caught off guard by the way he addressed the matter, devoid of the indignant, how-dare-you-accuse-us attitude the U.S. had come to expect from Cubas leaders.

The Cubans even offered to let the FBI come down to Havana to investigate. Though U.S.-Cuban cooperation has improved recently  there was a joint law enforcement dialogue Friday in Washington  this level of access was extraordinary.

The incidents began at a delicate time in U.S.-Cuba relations, as Trump was elected president, Cuban leader Fidel Castro died, and the Obama administration was scurrying to lock in the new policies it had negotiated with Havana. According to one theory, it isnt the Cuban government behind the attacks, but a rogue element of its security forces unhappy with the U.S. detente. Its also possible that Russia or North Korea were somehow involved.

But theres another bizarre clue. Last spring, the homes of five to ten Canadian diplomats were hit too. Canada and Cuba have had good relations for decades, so it doesnt make sense that someone upset with U.S. policy would harm their diplomats.

While the culprits and their motives remain unclear, U.S. politicians are growing impatient with the situation. On Friday five Republican senators  Tom Cotton, Richard Burr, John Cornyn, Marco Rubio, and James Lankford  sent Tillerson a letter urging him to close the embassy in Havana and kick all Cuban diplomats out of the U.S.

Cubas neglect of its duty to protect our diplomats and their families cannot go unchallenged, the senators said.
A High court judge in Kabale has handed Dominic Twinomuhangi, the former chairperson of Mwanjari Market Traders Association, a 35-year jail term for murdering his wife.

Twinomuhangi was sentenced on September 11 by Justice Moses Kawumi Kazibwe. The convict was found guilty of murdering Rose Asasira, a former teacher at Makanga primary school in Kabale district.

Prosecution led by Kabale State Attorney Gloria Inzikuru told court that on July 29, 2012, while at Kabahangaara cell in Karubanda ward in Southern division, Kabale municipality, Twinomuhangi murdered Asasira.

She asked court to give the accused the maximum sentence of death to deter other would-be offenders. She said murders from domestic violence were on the rise in Kigezi sub-region.

Twinomuhangi, who pleaded guilty to the charge, prayed for a lighter sentence, saying he was remorseful and in ill health.

He told court that he suffers from paralysis, hypertension, high blood pressure, diabetes, ulcers and asthma. In his judgment, Justice Kazibwe noted that prosecution had produced eight witnesses who pinned Twinomuhangi.

He sentenced Twinomuhangi to 35 years in jail. The judge said, however, that the convict will serve 30 years since he is remorseful and ill and has spent five years on remand.

Andrew Basensa, the acting chairperson of the Uganda National Teachers Union- Kabale branch, welcomed the judgment, saying Twinomuhangi committed a serious crime.

Basensa also said the judgment will make members of the public think twice before taking the law into their hands.






In this second part of the three-part series on the 22 years of the Constitutional court, SULAIMAN KAKAIRE examines the effect of backlog in the court, and how politics has remained a stumbling block to efficiency.



The backlog in the Constitutional court has had an effect on the nature of reliefs that come from it. In many cases, the parties could have already moved on by the time the court decides a case.

According to constitutional lawyer Peter Walubiri, this makes the courts judgments to be postmortem. They are basically for academic [purposes] or posterity but do not affect current events; yet ideally the decisions should primarily influence current events that is why the framers deemed it fit that the matters should be heard expeditiously, he says.

Lawyer Peter Walubiri

Take Muwanga Kivumbis 2005 constitutional petition against the attorney general, challenging the constitutionality of section 32 of the Police Act which empowered the police to stop the holding of an assembly or rally or public procession allegedly upon reasonable grounds.

Kivumbi ran to the court seeking a quick relief after police stopped him from holding rallies to mobilise against the parliaments plan to lift presidential term limits.

Although the Constitutional court declared the provision to be unconstitutional, the said judgment was made in May 2008 when the petitioners grievance could not be addressed.

Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi, the lawyer in Kivumbis case, regrets the delay. It was absurd that the good decision came when the term limits had already been lifted and the elections had been held, he said.

There are several other cases of a similar nature, including some that are pending before the Constitutional court yet events influencing them have changed or the parties in those cases have moved on.

For instance, Justice Kenneth Kakuru says before he joined the Constitutional court bench in 2013, he had filed several petitions but more than five years later, they are yet to be decided.

After the 2011 elections, I filed cases challenging the constitutionality of electing members of parliament representing special interest groups on political party tickets. In my view, they are not to be voted on party tickets because when they are elected through political parties, they, by implication, abandon the constituency they are representing, he says.

Unfortunately, these petitions have not been heard yet we have gone through elections.

Similarly, in 2011, Kakuru also filed a petition challenging the constitutionality of provisions of the Political Parties and Political Organizations Act, which prohibits state-funding of political parties without representation in parliament.

Those provisions are not only discriminatory but they are not in line with the principle of promoting multi-party dispensation. All parties, upon registration, must be funded by the state as a way of supporting them. You see, it is like a national team that expects to get players from local teams that are not supported. How do you expect the good players to emerge?

Currently, there are at least 117 petitions and 97 constitutional applications yet to be heard by the Constitutional court even when they have pended before the court for more than two years.



EROSION OF RULE OF LAW

Backlog in the Constitutional court has not only led to the granting of post-mortem orders but it is eroding the rule of law.

Human rights lawyer Isaac Ssemakadde, who is current pursuing several cases pending before the court said that the inefficiency in the court has affected the culture of rule of law since there are many acts or omissions that go without reprimand.

When you petition to determine the constitutionality of a would be violation and the court does not expedite its work within a reasonable time but decided to do it at a later date the consequence of it is that the impugned act would stand for some time and this promotes impunity, which in a long run erodes the rule of law, Ssemakadde said giving an example of a case his organization (LBT) filed challenging the approval procedure used by Parliament while vetting presidential appointees.

Currently, the appointments committee vets appointees and goes ahead to approve on behalf of Parliament. In our view [as petitioners], we challenge that procedure on ground that a committee of Parliament cannot usurp the power of parliament to approve appointees. Parliament is speaker and members of parliament. It is not a committee, Ssemakadde said, adding that; it is absurd that this illegality has not been undone since court is yet to determine the case in spite of the fact that it was filed more than two years ago.

Eventually, Nyanzis legal team filed a constitutional petition but Ssemakadde, one of the lawyers on the Nyanzis legal team, fears that Nyanzis petition is going to suffer the same fate.

If we had not secured the interim reliefs Stella [Nyanzi] would be going through the unconstitutional mental examination because the court could not have determined the petition expeditiously as required by the law, he said.



INTERIM MEASURES

Internally, the Constitutional court seems to have devised means of doing justice in spite of the fact that there is backlog in the court.

Justice Kenneth Kakuru

Currently, there is no specific rule in the Constitutional court that empowers it to grant interim reliefs. However, the court derives that mandate by seeking refugee from Rule 23 of the Constitutional court rules, which empowers the court to apply the Court of Appeal rules, with such modifications as the court may consider necessary.

Walubiri told The Observer that this procedure adopted by the court is instrumental in seeing that timely justice is achieved in the constitutional court.

Interim reliefs are necessary for purposes of achieving justice and also to avoid rendering the main case a nugatory. So, they protect a status quo. Assuming you are losing your property and the case cannot be heard in time because of backlog, which is a reality in the court, you cry out to the court and get an interim injunction. This is what we do for our clients, he said.

In the instant case, Walubiri argues that the remedial measure resorted to by the Constitutional Court is based on the fact that the court does not listen to cases expeditiously.

The law abhors a vacuum. You cannot suffer a wrong without a remedy, he said.

The application of this rule has brought some controversy as acknowledged recently by the Constitutional court in the recent case of Murisho Shafi and others vs attorney general. The controversy was about the number of justices to determine such application.

In the 2007case of James Isabirye v Attorney General, court held that: this rule if applied to constitutional miscellaneous applications would entail modification in the interpretation to the effect that a full bench to hear this application would constitute five justices and not three. In the premises, the panel for handling interim orders would also consist of three justices and not a single judge.

Subsequently, the Constitutional court moved away in from this position in the case of George Owor vs Attorney General moved away from its previous decision by holding that a single justice of the court had the jurisdiction to hear such an application.

The court observed: We have now carefully considered our decisions in the Isabirye case and Olara Otunu case in light of section 13 of the Judicature Act...Rule 53(1) and 2(b) appears to conflict with section 13(1) of the Judicature Act which gives a single justice power to exercise the powers of the Court in interlocutory matters.

In George Owor case, the court stated, as its reasoning for the aforementioned holding, that justices of the Court of Appeal are too few and too busy to bring together a panel of five justices to hear applications for interim orders or interlocutory applications. Therefore a single justice of the Court should be able to do so.

After a review of the authorities and the confusion caused by the two differing authorities, the court recently in the case of Murisho held that while determining interim reliefs arising from constitutional petition the Coram must be five justices of the court.

Court observed that; Jurisdiction is first and foremost not founded on convenience but on the law. Secondly in practical terms a court with fourteen judges [full complement being fifteen] can constitute a standing panel of five judges for a specific period to hear any urgent matters. This may be on a fortnightly, monthly, or quarterly roster. After all constitutional matters are supposed to take precedence over any other business before the Court.

Kakuru, who was a member of the panel in the Murisho case, told The Observer that court should stick to the constitutional provisions and rules of the court.

Why dont we have these cases fixed? The constitution and rules are clear that constitutional matters take precedence. And is required to have the petitions listened to throughout the weekend. This shows you how important constitutional matters are, he said.

In his decision, Kakuru observes that although interim orders were well intended, they have grossly been abused by both courts and litigants.

Court further observed that the interim reliefs are bad in a way that once the interim order has been granted, the petitioner substantially obtains the relief sought in the petition and ceases to have any further interest in its determination.

The court too loses interest in the matter and does not bother to fix it for hearing. This is illustrated by the fact that a report of this court presented at the 19th Annual Judges conference held between 26th-30th January, 2017 indicates that there are 309 Constitutional petitions and 241 Constitutional applications pending hearing at this court. Many of these were filed more than five years ago.

Apparently, there are some practitioners who have faulted the court in its decision in the case of Murisho. They argue that interim reliefs do not involve interpretation of the constitution and should be taken as interim reliefs.

What they should do is devising means of fighting abuse. For instance, there are instances when they can be granted yet denied others. What criterion is followed? Walubiri said citing an example when he became a victim of the abuse.

In 2010, Walubiri handled the case of Joseph Bossa vs Attorney General and Electoral Commission, where the petitioner sought for declarations that the act of the electoral commission of compiling and updating a national voters register which was used for the 2011 presidential, parliamentary and local government elections is more than the total adult population of Uganda when the register was compiled in 2010.

Whereas in the said petition Walubiri sought for an interim injunction before the elections, it was not fixed or heard until after the elections.

He said that if the application had been granted the opposition could have been the happiest people.

The interim orders could have served some justice because that case has never been heard to date. The debate should be on streamlining how these interim reliefs are granted because there is some abuse, Walubiri said.



GOING ABOUT THE ABUSE

In filing an application for interim reliefs, Nyanzis legal team had foresight of the abuse in the court and indeed thought strategically in that direction.

Ssemakadde, one of Nyanzis lawyers, told The Observer that whereas they applied for interim reliefs in the constitutional court by being aware of the politics and abuse in the court they still applied for stay of proceedings under the MTA in the trial because it too is empowered to grant such applications.

For the latter case, it is always hard for the trial court to grant such applications but our client was lucky. If it was not for this foresight our clients fate would have been that bad because it is almost four months since we filed that application but court is yet to think of fixing it. Can you imagine, Ssemakadde said.

Although Ssemakadde filed for interim reliefs in the court, his view of them is to the contrary.

I think that any reasonable court or person is supposed to respect the constitutional petition. So, the moment one proves existence of the petition, any person or authority whose authority is constitutionally challenged based on that petition, they are supposed to suspend exercise of such authority pending the determination of the petition, Ssemakadde said adding that jurisprudence to that effect is needed.

Apparently, this sort of jurisprudence operates well in circumstances where there is expeditious determination of petitions.

skakaire@observer.ug



This article is a product of The Watchdog and was produced with support from the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME).
Which bank offers the fairest deal? You have probably struggled with this question as you ponder where to go to save your money, or even get a loan.

The figures are deceptive. The advertisements are deceptive too. Commercial banks in Uganda continue to be clever.

Many of them say: open an account with us, we shall not charge you.

However, a review of the latest compilation of bank charges, as at July 1, released by Bank of Uganda, reveals what your bank probably didnt tell you.

Barclays bank on Jinja road

Let us start with savings. If you save your money with the bank, it will pay you some money in terms of interest for keeping your money there. It is not out of benevolence, but because the bank uses your money to make more money.

Centenary bank pays two per cent per quarter (three months) in interest for saving your money with them. Dfcu bank pays seven per cent per annum on maximum savings. Commercial Bank of Africa Uganda (CBAU) will also pay you seven per cent per annum.

Barclays bank seems to have the best deal; it pays up to nine per cent per annum if you open a savings account with them. And if you are looking for a bank to open a fixed deposit account, ABC Capital, Bank of India, and NC Bank are prospects  all pay up to 17 per cent in interest per annum.

Cairo International bank pays 16 per cent while Exim bank offers 15.5 per cent. Centenary bank and Dfcu will pay you 14 per cent and 11 per cent, respectively, for fixed deposits.

Fixed deposit accounts are used by commercial banks to draw in deposits. It provides a higher interest than the savings account because the banks hold your money for a much longer time.



LENDING RATES

One of the most followed figures is that of the lending rate. At what cost can a bank accept to give you its money if you wanted to borrow?

As at July 1, 2016, Stanbic bank and Bank of India had the lowest rate at 19 per cent. All the other banks are either at 20 per cent or above.

It is, however,important to note that this is just a benchmark rate. The bank will have to look at your risk profile  the riskier you are, the higher interest it will charge you. If the bank assesses you and thinks you are less risky, then it will give money at lower cost.

There are other loan-related charges  from application fee to insurance fee to legal and loan monitoring fees. GT bank and Exim bank charge Shs 200,000 as application fee each. ABC capital charges Shs 50,000 while Bank of Africa charges Shs 65,000 for individuals and Shs 125,000 for companies. Dfcu and Centenary bank charge Shs 20,000 each.



CHARGES ON ACCOUNT

Most banks will go miles to convince you to open an account with them, promising no monthly charges, free ATM withdrawals, etcetera. But there will always be a cost somewhere  overtly or covertly.

They will also penalise you for going against some of their rules. For instance, Bank of Africa and Standard Chartered bank will charge you Shs 20,000 as penalty for going below the minimum amount on a savings account. Barclays will charge you Shs 16,500 while Dfcu will charge you Shs 16,000.

How about when you want to close your account? Apart from Standard Chartered bank, which says it is free, all the other banks charge you for that  with the fee being between Shs 10,000 and Shs 27,000 for wanting to leave them. Bank of Baroda charges Shs 27,500 if you decide to close your account.

To get your financial statement, some banks will give it to you free of charge while others will charge you. Bank of Baroda and Cairo bank charge Shs 3,300 for a bank statement. Equity bank charges Shs 3,500 per page and Orient bank will ask for Shs 5,000 per page.

Most banks offer one free statement per month but charge you when you want more. Centenary bank indicates it does not charge for the financial statement but it charges you Shs 2,000 when you go to the counter.

All but Bank of India and Stanbic have charges on ATM withdrawals on ordinary accounts ranging between Shs 500 and Shs 2,000. But Stanbic charges Shs 1,000 for savings account.

Commercial bank Charge for receiving salary (Shs) ABC Capital 2,500 Bank of Africa 2,500 Bank of India Nil Barclays 3,000 Baroda N/A Cairo International 3,300 CBAU 1,000 Centenary 2,000 Dfcu 2,000 Diamond Trust bank Free Ecobank 2,000 Equity 2,500 Finance Trust 2,000 GT bank 2,000 Housing Finance bank 2,500 Exim bank 2,000 KCB 3,000 NC bank 2,500 Orient bank 2,000 Stanbic 4,000 Standard Chartered 5,000 Tropical bank 2,500-3,000 United Bank for Africa (UBAU) 2,500

amwesigwa@observer.ug
PM Ruhakana Rugunda

Dear Dr Rugunda,



A story in The Observer of September 8, 2017 quoted you as saying: I see nothing that provides a scientific or rational reason that somebody who is above 75 years cannot be president.

This was in reference to the presidential age limit. If this is true, your ignorance is hardly surprising. A pediatrician is unlikely to be versed with the scientific literature on brain aging. So, for your benefit, these are the facts.

As one ages, the brain changes in both form and function. The brains volume peaks in the early 20s and gradually declines for the rest of life. In the 40s, the cortex (part of the brain responsible for intellect, among other functions) starts to shrink.

Nerve cells shrink or die, and there is a large reduction in the extensiveness of connections among the nerve cells (dendritic loss). The normally aging brain has lower blood flow and gets less efficient at recruiting different areas into operations. While there is individual variation, the watershed age for most of the important deficits is around 70 years.

The basic cognitive functions most affected by age are attention and memory. Perception (which impacts both attention and memory) shows significant declines with age. In addition, there is impairment of executive function as a key contributor to age-related declines in cognitive or intellectual tasks.



Attention deficit

Attention refers to the ability to concentrate and focus on specific stimuli. Simple hearing attention span (immediate memory) shows only slight decline with age.

A more noticeable age effect is seen on more complex attention tasks, such as selective and divided attention. Selective attention is the ability to focus on specific information in the environment while ignoring irrelevant information, while divided attention is the ability to focus on multiple tasks simultaneously.

Processing speed refers to the speed with which intellectual activities are performed as well as the speed of motor responses. This fluid ability begins to decline in the third decade of life and continues throughout the lifespan.

Many of the cognitive changes reported in healthy older adults are the result of slowed processing speed.

This slowing can negatively impact performance on many domains, and is particularly problematic when having to review, internalize, and respond to new information promptly. Thus, a decline in processing speed can have implications across a variety of cognitive domains.

One of the most common age-related deficits is change in memory. Age-related memory changes may be related to slowed processing speed, reduced ability to ignore irrelevant information, and decreased use of strategies to improve learning and memory.

While retention of information that is already successfully learned is preserved in cognitively healthy older adults, there are declines in memory retrieval, which is the ability to access newly learned information. Likewise, there is reduced ability to encode new information into memory.

Many complex everyday tasks such as decision-making, problem-solving, and the planning of goal-directed behaviors require the integration and reorganization of information from a variety of sources. Older adults exhibit significant deficits in tasks that involve active manipulation, reorganization, or integration of the contents of working memory.



Decision making

Research shows that older people tend to rely more on prior knowledge about a problem domain and less on new information, whereas young people tend to sample and evaluate more current information and consider more alternatives before making their decisions.

Partly because of working memory limitations, older people tend to rely on expert opinion to a greater degree than young adults. Although this strategy may work reasonably well when the expert is well-qualified, it may leave older people susceptible to things such as investment scams. Poor decision-making may also be a result of episodic memory decline, particularly the loss of memory for details or source.

Executive functioning allows a person to successfully engage in independent, appropriate, purposive, and self-serving behavior. This includes cognitive abilities such as the ability to self-monitor, plan, organize, reason, and problem-solve.

There is ample evidence that concept formation, abstraction, and mental flexibility decline with age, especially after age 70. Beyond 70, there are significant declines in inductive reasoning, as measured by verbal and mathematical reasoning tasks.

Reasoning with unfamiliar material also declines with age. Major exceptions to this decline include the ability to appreciate similarities, describe the meaning of proverbs, and reason about familiar material - these remain stable throughout life.

The deterioration in intellectual capacity has no direct relationship with physical fitness. You might be able to do a hundred push-ups without breaking a sweat, but this does not necessarily halt the decline in mental acuity.

If the 70-year-old person had memory and attention deficits last year, and he signed documents without due scrutiny, this year the lapses will be worse, and more documents will slip through.

These lapses could occur during a speech at the UN, hosting a foreign investor delegation, or chairing cabinet. The older adult might leverage his wider experience, create more bureaucratic procedures to accomplish simple tasks, may be plagued by indecision, and if a leader, may lead by proxy.

The other end of the age spectrum is closer to the pediatrician  the youth. The young adults hormonal constitution is well known and their behavior is fairly predictable.

While their mental acuity is at its peak, they need the substrate on which to apply that prowess. Sadly, that is not downloadable from Play Store. It is acquired through a slow tedious process called growing up.

At both extremes the effects follow a normal distribution, meaning that the majority of people will behave as described, but that a few will be outliers. Society does well not to peg their fortunes on the chances of an outlier.

So  to get back to your point, yes, there are very clear scientifically established reasons why a 76-year-old and a 19-year-old are not good choices for a countrys chief executive. Sorry to the outliers out there.



The author is a medical practitioner and author of The Correct Line?: Uganda Under Museveni
Hajji Abdul Nadduli

Hajji ABDUL NADDULI, the minister without portfolio, has said he will never support any bill that takes away people's right to own land.

Speaking to The Observer's Baker Batte Lule at his office in Kampala, Nadduli said the current land laws are sufficient to deal with compulsory land acquisition since require prior and prompt compensation of owners.



What are your thoughts about the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill 2017?

The 1900 Buganda agreement created two categories of landowners; where one owns land and the other kibanja. The agreement also provided that in case government needed to use someones land, it would be taken over and the owner compensated.

On the other hand, when the owner of the land wants to use it, he would either buy it from the kibanja holder or compensate him with another kibanja.

The Busuulu and Nvujo law also emphasized that both the land and kibanja owners had perpetual rights over their land. That is the reason I fought with katikkiro Peter Mayiga on the issue of Kyapa mu Ngalo because he wanted to turn our bibanja into leases that expire after 50 years.

The Kabaka, who the 1900 agreement gave 350 square miles of land; can he use it all to the exclusion of other Baganda?

If we are to protect this country, we have to be like a bicycle; it has two tires and two brakes. Land is the rear brake; the most effective on the bicycle and the kibanja is the front brake but they best work when they are both applied. So, if you want to front one at the expense of the other, you will be causing problems for the country.



Going back to the amendment, what do you think is the most contentious issue?

I dont support any law that gives Museveni or the government the right to ownership of our land because the power to use any piece of land for government projects is already provided for in the laws starting with the 1900 Buganda agreement.

When I saw him in Masaka saying that he agrees that people should be compensated first by putting in place two valuers, I jubilated. Those who first gave us the copy said that after government valuing your land, they will throw you whatever amount they want and then say go to court; that will be thuggery.

But I would like to say that even you who is currently in power and using it to steal peoples properties even yours will be stolen one day. This is a government; it has no friendship; today you are in tomorrow you are out; its like boarding a bus, when you pay, you are given a seat but that doesnt mean that they have given you ownership of the bus.



So, how do you want government to handle this issue?

Government can only own land when it is going to use it for projects that benefit all people. Let me ask you; dont we need cattle as a country?

But have you heard that in this current amendment when Ugandans need cows, they can just go to someones farm and pick and then they [owners] are paid later? So, why are people interested in one item; land? Can somebody who has no account in a bank write a cheque and they give him money?

For someone to own land, that is their claim of citizenship in this country; when government takes that away and the account that has been showing Nadduli now reads government, that will be source of problems.

I also want to teach those who come from outside of Buganda that saying that people who collaborated with whites were traitors is wrong. Museveni has been in Kibaale giving out titles; whom has he betrayed? Those two acts are conflicting.

The Kabaka gave out titles and you are also giving out titles; how do you turn around and criticise him for being a traitor; how? That is undermining people; we must appreciate the role played by those who came before us. We shouldnt think that it is only us who have contributed to this country.

Buganda signed an agreement with the whites to become a protectorate in 1894. This saved it from becoming a colony like Kenya where all the [good] land was taken over by whites and Indians. Is it what he also wanted to happen in our country?

Tooro became part of Uganda in 1900, Ankole in 1901, the entire eastern became part of Uganda in 1903, Kigezi 1910, Lango and Acholi 1912, West Nile 1914, Karamoja 1926 and Bunyoro in 1933. That is the Uganda we have today. What does Museveni say about this kind of arrangement and where was he?

None of these regions has a signature on our 1900 Buganda agreement that also brought them to join what we now call Uganda. They came to get services from here.

Therefore, those of you who just joined us, you cant force us to abandon what belongs to us. We shouldnt do it because if we do [so], it will kill our unity and the next time Uganda disintegrates, we might not fight for it. We might fight for our different regions so that everybody goes back where they came from. If you dont want to take in the Buganda agreement wholly, then jump over.



But doesnt Museveni have a point when he says there was some unfairness in the way land was divided which is now fuelling land evictions?

This Museveni era is the one which has brought conflicts between bibanja and land owners; he should just clean his regime.

Tell me starting with the 1960s and 1970s which group came out and evicted people from their bibanja? Its them who have brought this havoc; the law used to be respected, when you need a kibanja, you buy it, when you need land, you buy it; thats all.



How should government handle the friction between landowners and squatters?

The president should come out strongly and recruit civil servants who have love for this country and loyalty to him. We now have young people like you who are FDC but working in the NRM government that they dont want. Thats why they are trying to antagonise the government.

They have been wondering why the NRM is so strong in the villages and thats why they are bringing this turmoil to turn upside down our government. I call on the president to look out for these people and chase them out of our government.



Are you not trying to look for scapegoats to hide your governments failures?

You know its when the issue of land came up that Besigye also started campaigns on land. How? Why doesnt he go and do those campaigns in his area?



But its the president moving around the country educating us on the need of the law; how then do you say its an FDC thing?

There have been people misleading the president on this thing of land because we have the law that provides for government acquisition of land without changing the current law. You cant just wake up one morning and take over the ownership of a property that my forefathers fought for. Can that be possible?



Now that we have the law, on what should the government focus attention?

Like I said, there are some people who misled the president because when you look at the current law, its sufficient to enable government acquire land and also compensate owners.



Government put in place a committee headed by the vice president to internalise this bill and come out with a report. Do you think its also wasting time?

Government business has what we call terms of reference. What were that committees terms of reference? Having a pathologist doesnt stop me from disagreeing on a postmortem, but this doesnt invalidate their work.

Let the committee come up with their report but we also have opinions about the bill. In any case, the Constitution is bound to be changed. FDC was saying we shouldnt change the law but how will they then put in what they want if they think the law cannot be changed?

I also dont know where the MPs from Buganda are in all this. Many said they were going to parliament to fight for Buganda issues but have you heard them say anything? Is the Buganda they said they were going to fight for in heaven?

Even us as Baganda, we have demands; why do we leave all the amendments to be brought by Museveni?

Our 9,000 square miles of land we have been asking for are not for Banyankore, Bacholi or Langi. It is for Baganda, its the time for them to bring back our land. Its time for the Baganda to also come out; if government wants to amend the law, they must first give us something in return. This is a situation of give and take, its the only way we can have our MPs support this bill.



But you speak like you are not part of government.

When Im talking about issues affecting Uganda, dont give me sides; Im a Ugandan. In the same breath; when Im talking about Buganda issues, I talk about them as a Muganda; so, when you say you belong to this or that side, you are trying to gag me.

Ministers Abdul Nadduli (L), Kahinda Otafiire and Henry Tumukunde

NRM MPs have resolved to table in parliament a private members bill to scrap age limits. Whats your take on the matter?

If MPs convened to consult themselves, whats wrong with it? The problem is that many of you have interpreted this as if the law has been passed.

The proposal can be rejected. However, I also want to tell those MPs that they should come up with briefs to show us the usefulness of that proposal. They shouldnt leave us hanging.



But do you think its wise to remove age limits from our Constitution?

How old are you? Have you bothered to find out how many of the developed countries have got age limits in their constitutions? Does the United Kingdom, France, Italy have age limits?

But all those countries have strong institutions that anyone can use them to come to power not like in countries like ours where the EC and all other organs are subservient to the president.



Recently the president told NTV that he will never stand as president past 75 years of age. Now he is speaking with a tongue in the cheek telling us to go and ask doctors about the fitness of someone who is post 75. Can your boss be trusted?

The Baganda say: Akomuntu sikante nti weyakaabira jjo nolwaleero. We people change. Thats even how countries grow. There has never been and there will never be soft politics even if its FDC in power.



bakerbatte@observer.ug
In the wake of increased criticism of his work methods, Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura has said sacking him will not stop the rise in crime around the country.

In an hour-long address to local government leaders at their 23rd annual general meeting held on Saturday in Mubende, Gen Kayihura said he was fed up with the relentless criticism of the police.

Under his watch, the police stands accused of operating as a militia -- protecting the NRM regime by unleashing unprovoked violence on its opponents instead of serving and protecting the community  which is its primary mandate.

Kayihura referred to a meeting President Museveni recently held with police commanders from the central region over the spate of murders.

The president was criticising us that we have failed to stamp out crime... If we are to prevent crime, we must address the root causes of crime in society, Kayihura said at St Peters Technical Institute Mubende.

It has now become fashionable to criticise the police in Parliament instead of highlighting the actual problems and strategise on how to solve them, he said.

Next, he obliquely drew attention to his clash with Security minister Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde over the Entebbe and Nansana women killings.

These songs of police this, police that...Kayihura alemeddwa [has failed]. People, okay, Kayihura can be sent to Luzira but I tell you, if you dont address the problems in society, even if you put [appoint] I dont know who, [but] whoever you put there, the problems of crime will not be solved, he said.

Kayihura and Tumukunde were recently on a collision path with both bush war notables running parallel investigations into the unexplained murders of women in Nansana and Entebbe.

He said his interactions with criminal gangs (kifeesi) and prostitutes in both areas have revealed that many of them were driven into crime by unemployment.

The police chief called out the ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development for failing to reach out to unemployed youth groups. He cited an example of a sex worker who told him that she was forced to use her God-given capital after failing to fend for her two children.

Yes, police is accountable to Ugandans, but local leaders should stop complaining before the president about the corruption in the force, he said.

Instead of waiting for the president to complain, why dont you arrest those corrupt police officers? Kayihura wondered amidst murmurs. You have a constitutional mandate as leaders; discipline any corrupt characters in the police instead of complaining. If you are [doubtful], I have given you the authority as IGP, Kayihura said.

Similarly, Kayihura said he is tired of persistent reports ranking police as the most corrupt and leading abuser of human rights.

Police is partnering the Uganda Local Governments Association and cultural leaders to strengthen the monitoring of the police personnel, he revealed.

Ugandas top cop also spoke in defence of crime preventers who have been accused of several violations.

Now, a person like [former prime minister] Amama Mbabazi who is a knowledgeable, highly respected legal scholar and a great leader...how could he go to the Supreme court and claim that crime preventers are a Kayihura militia? he asked.

You can see how someone can get corrupted by politics. Really, someone like [Mbabazi] who has got a great history of the revolutionary struggle degenerates because he wants power, he said.

Despite their shortcomings, the IGP said he is still convinced that crime preventers help police to deal with crime. Kayihura said the police will buy more motorcycles such that each parish receives at least two for police patrols. He also revealed that the government is in advanced stages of acquiring CCTV cameras.

We are in advanced stages of procuring a national CCTV camera system; it is a project that the president is micromanaging because we want something good and implemented fast because if he is to leave it to some people, it can be mishandled, Kayihura said.

Once installed, Kayihura said, the entire country will be monitored from a single point in Kampala. He, therefore, cautioned local governments against installing security systems without involving government security agencies.



sadabkk@observer.ug
Property kingpin Sudhir Ruparelia hopes to convince the judge hearing Bank of Ugandas nearly Shs 400 billion lawsuit against him that he does not owe anything under a settlement agreement he signed early this year.

The central bank did not keep its side of the bargain, his lawyers will argue -- if the suit comes to trial.

First skirmishes played out in the Commercial court on Wednesday. Judge David Wangutusi inconclusively heard an application to have Bank of Uganda lawyers: MMAKS Advocates and AF Mpanga Advocates, recused from the suit in which he is accused of siphoning billions from his former business.

Sudhir Ruparelia at Commercial court last week

As is the custom, the judge proposed mediation first, even as the central banks lawyers refused to accept accusations of conflict of interest on grounds that they worked for the businessman before.

With that undetermined question hanging over proceedings, a parallel front opened up just nine days ago. On September 5, BOU filed to amend its main plaint and bring an alternative cause of action.

If successful, BOU would secure the correlative rights of Crane bank, which Ruparelia ceded with the signing of a Confidential Settlement and Release Agreement (CSRA) between both parties early this year.

He would also have to pay $52 million, and transfer 47 freehold/mailo land title deeds from Meera Investments, to Crane Bank.

Under Clause 3.1 of the CSRA, In consideration of BOU and CBL [Crane Bank Limited ] agreeing to settle and release claims as specified in this Confidential Settlement and Release Agreement, SR [Sudhir Ruparelia] agrees: To pay and or procure the payment to BOU [Bank of Uganda] of the aggregate amount of USD 60,000,000 and transfer of CBL (in receivership ) or its nominee the freehold and mailo titles set out.

Things, however, are not as straightforward. If mediation fails and Judge Wangutusi has to hear the matter, the interpretation given by Ruparelias counsel, Kampala Associated Advocates, will be that he was supposed to pay BOU.

That Crane bank cannot make a claim on the $52 million or any sum of money under the CSRA since, according to him, the clause specifically states  that USD 60,000,000 shall be paid to (BOU)

But it is the underlying argument which is even more involving. Sudhir thinks that the CSRA was broken immediately BOU sued him.

The court is being invited to consider Clause 12 of the CSRA, which provided that, Without prejudice to the immediately foregoing, should any legal or administrative proceedings of any kind ensue against SR [Sudhir Ruparelia] (as defined in this agreement), the agreement stands voided and BOU shall immediately return to SR the value of the settlement consideration in immediately available funds.

Sudhirs lawyers have advised him that neither Crane bank nor Bank of Uganda can now enforce their rights under the CSRA.

I have further been advised by my lawyers, which advice I verily believe to be true, that in so far as the proposed amendment attempts to introduce an alternative cause of action under the CSRA, it is barred by principle of approbation and reprobation. Crane Bank Limited having made an election to abandon the CSRA cannot resile from that election, Sudhir says.

Another amendment that BOU seeks involves the manner in which Sudhirs business partner, Rasik Kantaria, acquired Crane bank shares.

Kantaria is said by BoU to have procured his shares thus: First purchase worth Shs 1 billion in 2006 from Anglo Universal Holdings Limited; a company BOU claims is associated with Sudhir.

Second batch worth Shs 4 billion from Sudhir and third by acquiring shares held by Jagdish Nagrecha; Sudhirs brother-in-law and Jyotsna Ruparelia, Sudhirs wife, for Shs 5 billion.

The case being made is that Kantaria was Sudhirs front since all dividends he received as a shareholder ended up in bank accounts of entities owned by Sudhir.

However, Sudhir sees an attempt by BoU to subvert his defence through the changing of original facts. He has opposed BoUs wish to revise its original claim that Sudhir received Shs 35,234,253,980 from Kantaria to Shs 35,835,701,265.

The defence lawyers say that the Shs 35,234,243,980 figure was extracted from a PriceWaterHouseCoopers forensic audit report dated November 13, 2014.

They will tell Judge Wangutusi that the audit firms report, in fact, supports Sudhirs argument that BOU was aware of all it alleges -- and yet it still approved Crane Banks financial statements between 2014- 2015 . The banking regulator is stopped from suing him, they hold.

Other arguments are that BOU allegedly copied, then changed, the PWC forensic report now dated January 13, 2017 in which the Shs 35,835,701,265 figure is mentioned. The defence claims that the January report is quite different in both form and content from the PWC document of November 2014.

Sudhir asserts that on July 21, 2017 his lawyers served BOU with a notice to produce 26 documents as alluded to in BOUs plaint since he needed them to defend himself. Listed as number one, was the PWC forensic report. On July 31, 2017, he says that BOU refused to produce any of the documents save for Crane banks annual report of 2014.

The defence holds that since the PWC report is the very foundation of the case given BoUs proposed amendments to the main plaint, refusal by BoU amounts to an attempt at trial by ambush and is an abuse of court process.



dkiyonga@observer.ug
Police has summoned four members of parliament opposed to the lifting of the presidential age limit from the Constitution to explain their recent remarks.



Police through D/SSP Mark Paul Odong the director Criminal Investigations has summoned NRM MPs; Theodore Ssekikubo (Lwemiyaga), Barnabas Tinkasiimire (Buyaga West) as well as Independent Muhammad Nsereko (Kampala Central) and Allan Ssewanyana (Makindye West) over their recent remarks in regards to the proposed age limit bill.

According to the summons issued, police is investigating against the MPs a possible case of offensive communication and inciting violence.

L-R: Theodore Ssekikubo, Monica Amoding and Muhammad Nsereko

Last week, the ruling party, National Resistance Movement (NRM) members of parliament passed a resolution to support a private member's bill to have the presidential age limit lifted from between 35 and 75 years. Cabinet, in the same week also passed a resolution to support tabling in parliament of the same bill.



After the NRM MPs resolution, some MPs reacted angrily accusing their colleagues of attempting to amend the Constitution for a sole individual, President Yoweri Museveni.



If the age limit is not lifted, Museveni who has been in power for over 31 years would be ineligible to contest in the next presidential elections in 2021 as he would be 77 years old, two years above the age cap.

At the press conference last week, the pro-age limit MPs accused the NRM party of using bribery to buy off MPs to have the Constitution amended for President Museveni. They vowed to use any possible means including tearing down the bill block it's debate on the floor of parliament.

They also called on citizens to demand answers from their respective MPs and ask them why they were removing the age limit to make Museveni 'life president'.

They argued that making Museveni 'life president' removes any possibility of peaceful transfer of power to another president. Since gaining independence in 1962 all Uganda's president's have literally been 'bombed' out office.



NOT INTIMIDATED



Addressing the press today at parliament's lounge, the pro-age limit MPs said they are not intimidated by the summons, vowing to report to the police headquarters with their supporters.

They also wondered why the minister of state for Investment and Privatization, Evelyn Anite, who they claim made treasonous statements has not also been summoned.



Anite last week said those in favour of lifting the age limit had the army on their side. She was to later claim she was quoted out of context.



These police letters are a confirmation of Evelyn Anite's claim that they [movers of the age limit removal bill] have the support of the magye [army] Nsereko said.

One of The Alternative youth being arrested

Ssekikubo said he has requested police to postpone the summons so he can attend the NRM caucus slated for tomorrow.



AGE LIMIT COPS ARRESTED

Meanwhile, at least up to seven 'White Angels' youth from 'The Alternative' were arrested by both the police and the army from Downtown Kampala as they handed out flyers to people calling on them to protect the Constitution before it's weak to defend you.



Also, our reporters at parliament have seen an unusual security deployment and presence in and around parliament, possibly to prevent protestors from storming the august House ahead of tabling of the proposed bill this week.



Military Police personnel locally known as Red Top were sported hiding in private vehicles with tinted windows.
Some of the youth activists being arrested

Police in Kampala arrested over 14 youth activists who were demonstrating and issuing leaflets against the proposed removal of presidential age limits from the Constitution.



The activists under their umbrella body, 'White Angels' took to the city streets early morning dressed in white overalls with inscriptions denouncing the proposed constitutional amendment.

They used the sound of a ringing bell to capture public attention, pleading with citizens to rise up and block the amendment the the Constitution to lift the presidential age limit from between 35 years (minimum) and 75 years (maximum).

Members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party last week passed a resolution to amend article 102(b) of the Constitution which caps the presidential age at 75. The move would open the last and only remaining hurdle for President Museveni to seek re-election when his term of office expires in 2021.



Under the current provision, President Museveni who was born in 1944 would not be eligible to contest for the seat. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, will hit the limit before the next presidential election. At least 271 members of the NRM caucus last week appended signatures to a document supporting a proposal to remove the age limit cap. The decision was later endorsed by cabinet.



However, the move has met resistance from various political circles. The White Angels, one of the groups challenging the amendment had planned a peaceful march to parliament which however started with activities downtown Kampala.



But they were arrested from areas surrounding the Old Taxi Park in the centre of Kampala before starting their march to parliament. Norman Tumuhimbise, one of the arrested youths advises Ugandans not to heed to pressure from government, but demand for democracy and fight for their rights. Tumuhimbise added that arrests will not deter them from pushing the government to respect the will of the people.

Another of the arrested activist, Kevin David Sserufusa said they will not give up in their quest to maintain constitutionalism in the country. Later, police also arrested Makindye West MP Allan Ssewanyana who had reportedly gone to the Central police station to check on the arrested youth.



Kampala Metropolitan District Police Commander Siraje Bakaleke declined to comment on the matter.
The Police Professional Standards Unit (PSU) is investigating Mutundwe police post for the armed robbery and murder of two police officers and a civilian last weekend in Kalerwe.

Two Special Police Constables (SPCs); Hussein Munira and Moses Karungi and Denovo bread van driver, Kasirye Ssengozi were gunned down last Saturday evening near Total petrol station in Kalerwe along Gayaza road by unknown assailants.

The assailants made off with the money belonging to Denova as well as the guns of the two murdered police officers. The shooting also left four cashiers of Denovo injured. They'd been collecting the day's sales from the different points of sale.

The vehicle in which staff of Denovo bread were travelling bearing marks of bullet scars

28 cartridges and 4 live bullets have since been recovered from the scene of crime and handed over to officers from the forensics and ballistic department.

Now, the PSU has picked up Samuel Kazibwe, the officer-in-charge of Mutundwe police post and the duty officer, Patrick Emojong in connection to the incident.



It is alleged that Denova bread has been picking personnel from Mutundwe police to escort the money picked from various outlets for the last five years. The officers are accused of not following the laid out procedure for deploying personnel in line with police standing orders.



Ideally, any person interested in security and police escort services is required to apply through the inspector general of police (IGP) or deposit money directly unto the police account.

Police spokesperson, Asan Kasingye, says apart from not following the laid down procedure in deploying security for money transportation, the officers were part of the people who knew the route the vehicles have been using to transport the money.
Makerere University used to be known for its strictness and non-compromising approach towards irregular admissions, examination cheating or falsification of marks and results.

At one point in this era, a minister responsible for education was discontinued by the university after his admission was deemed irregular, his place in government, let alone the education sector, notwithstanding.

Around the same time, a powerful academic registrar lost his job after he was accused of admitting a student irregularly. The university simply had no room for misconduct.

However, with time, Makerere University appeared to drop the ball. Reports of forged transcripts, manipulation of marks and sex for marks became more frequent. With this, its credibility took a downward spiral.

Now, thankfully, the university has woken up to its duty to cleanse itself. An ad hoc committee on examinations, irregularities and malpractice is hearing from at least 100 students who got their names onto the 2016 graduation list after falsifying their results with the help of unscrupulous staff.

Another 380 students had their names removed from this years graduate list after it was established that their marks had been forged.

As a result of these uncomfortable findings, the university is reportedly reviewing all examination results going back at least six years. Dozens of staff and hundreds of students face criminal charges if found culpable.

Makerere University should have gotten this tough way back, but better late than never. Its very unfair that some students work hard and earn their grades while others buy the grades they didnt work for.

This unfairness extends to the job market where fake papers are relied on to get some people jobs at the expense of candidates with genuine qualifications. This must stop.

To clamp down on this evil, Makerere University must make it very costly for its students or staff to engage in examination malpractice at all levels.

Once students and staff get to realise that chances of getting caught are quite high and the punishment is prosecution and withdrawal of whatever academic papers that will have been obtained illegitimately, this dirty practice will stop or at least reduce substantially.
Without much international fanfare, the worlds largest offshore oil field and the largest discovered in the last 40 years, Kazakhstans Kashagan Field, is on the verge of finally moving beyond the manifold impediments that hindered its development.

Discovered in 2000, the 13 Bbbl field (38 Bbbl of oil in place) was set to begin producing in 2005, however, the first start took place only in 2013. The joy lasted for a mere three months, then a pipeline leak on one of the artificially created islands led to a three-year production hiatus. Yet last autumn, Kashagan was producing oil again. In the absence of any further disturbances, its set to gradually ramp up to join the worlds Top-3 highest producing oil fields by 2035.

Much of Kashagans past problems boil down to the technicalities of the oil field itself. Its located in a climatically volatile region where temperatures range from +40 C in the summer to -40 C in the winter. And its in shallow waters; with depths as low as 4-5 meters, its completely covered in thick ice during winter months.

Kashagans oil is extremely sulphurous. Along with high mercaptan sulphur rates, it also wields an H 2 S content of 17 percent. Coupled with significant overpressure (approximately 800 bar), relatively high oil/gas ratio and a reservoir temperature of 100 C, the field adds up into quite a challenge for upstream specialists.

Related: Does Russia Really Need The OPEC Deal?

Yet good things come to those who wait, since Kashagan remains by all definitions a brilliant spot to develop. Spread on a territory 70 km long and 30 km wide, with the average oil column amounting to 1 km, the oil is light (45 API) and plentiful.

The necessity to take the Kashagan production design through its paces underlies the fields assorted issues. Due to the shallow water, the fields drilling is done with the use of four artificially created drilling islands that, apart from being interconnected, also pump the produced oil to the mainland by means of four trunk pipelines.

When Kashagan was expected to go online in 2013, the construction design looked completely ready to use... on paper, that is. The pipelines, supplied by Japanese companies and reportedly able to withstand the sulphur levels of Kashagan, got covered in microcracks along pipeline D. This created an immensely difficult situation for North Caspian Operating Company (NCOC), as the waters around Kashagan are brimming with red-listed animals, such as the Caspian seal, various species of sturgeons and even falcons.

In order to avoid an environmental catastrophe, the operating company shut down production and replaced 200 km of pipelines.

Given the length of delays and overall first-phase costs inflating up to $50 billion from the initial $20 billion, its remarkable how little the field ownership structure experience changed in the last 10 years. The four main shareholdersExxonMobil, ENI, Total and Royal Dutch Shell (all own 16.81 percent)have inalterably persevered throughout the years. But then KazMunaiGas, the Kazakh national oil and gas company, bought ConocoPhillips share and divested two-thirds of its shares to CNPC and the national investment fund Samruk-Kuzyna to ease its debt burden.

This is all the more worth noting, as Kazakhstans government has subjected NCOC to hefty fines in the past ($120 million for every year of delay), citing production-sharing contract compliance delays as the main cause. The government even pushed through a contract clause stipulating that if oil prices are above $45/barrel, the government is entitled to a 3.5 percent additional royalty. This takes place against the background of an already rigid contractual framework, whereby the states current profit oil stake of 20 percent increases with time (in 2030, it increases to 45 percent) toward a full state takeover by 2045.

Kashagan currently produces 200kbpd; if the currently deployed gas re-injection doesnt hit a nasty barrier, NCOC intends to bring it to 370kbpd by the end of the year. The redesigned compression center projectboth more easily deployable (doesnt require the construction of another island) and cheaper than the previous versionsshould bring Kashagans production to 450 kbpd by 2019. The international consortiums plans, however, consist in the earliest possible commissioning of Kashagan Phases II and III.

Although at a high cost (in 2008 the aggregate costs of Phases II and III were evaluated to be around $120 billion), this would allow NCOC to ramp up production first to 900kbpd, and then to 1.5 mbpd. The sooner this happens, the better for the international majors, which in case the current PSA would be subject to renegotiation, would find themselves in a much more difficult position vis-a-vis the fortified Kazakh state than in 1997.

Moreover, any increase in the frequency of technogenic earthquakes caused by the drilling of offshore subsalt resources, as well as any environmental catastrophe caused by oil or gas leaks, would move the goalposts of the Kashagan project, and the state will inevitably move to get a much bigger share than it currently holds.

Paradoxically, export routes dont represent a massive headache for the NCOC consortium. Kashagans current volumes can be fully handled via the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), which expects to supply 8.1 million tons of Kashagan oil this year to the Russian port of Novorossiysk. After CPCs throughput capacity extension is carried out late 2017, its 56 mtpa Kazakh quota (of the total 67 mtpa) will allow Kashagan producers not to worry about supply routes.

Related: Supermajors Prepare For A Permian Bidding War

Even the commissioning of Phases II and III wont fill NCOC with much consternation, given that the Uzen-Atyrau-Samara can be easily made use of (not to mention its possible extension which would further cement the Russia-Kazakhstan energy link), with the trans-Kazakhstani China pipeline and trans-shipment to the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan remaining perfectly acceptable supply routes, too. Thus, even when Kashagan reaches its 60-65 mtpa production peak, getting the oil supplied to its end customer will most likely be one of the least difficult issues.

Kashagans production increase will be an indubitable boon for Kazakhstan, but will squash any compliance with the OPEC+ quota Astana has agreed on to fulfill. When the Vienna talks produced the OPEC+ quota distribution, Kashagan was making its first timid steps, therefore Kazakhstani negotiators agreed to a 1.623 mbpd production cap to be reached by mid-2017. However, by July 2017 Kazakhstan was producing 1.724 mbpd of crude, with Astana officials stating that the growing Kashagan production has created entirely new market conditions for them, rendering any further quota compliance almost impossible. Whether the OPEC+ member will allow Kazakhstan to clinch a separate deal, as Astana insists upon, remains to be seen.

Whatever the outcome, after several years of stagnation since 2010, Kazakh crude output will rise in both mid- and long-term. Thanks to Kashagan and Tengizs Future Growth Project, its current 80 mtpa volume is destined to increase almost twice, to 135-140 mtpa by the 2030s. Yet for this to happen, Kashagans development needs to be undisturbed and steady.

By Viktor Katona for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Iraq, the second-largest OPEC producer, may be facing a significant disruption to its oil exports this month. On September 25, citizens of the northern region of Kurdistan, a semi-autonomous area of Iraq, will vote in a referendum for national independence.

If the referendum passes, as it is expected to, Kurdistan could begin proceedings to proclaim formal independence from Iraq, splitting the country in two. On Monday, the Iraqi prime minister Haider Al-Abadi called on the vote to be suspended until after the war against the Islamic State (IS) is concluded.

Oil is at the center of it all. Kurdistan itself is rich in oil, possessing reserves equal to 45 billion barrels, and could potentially become a larger producer than Nigeria. According to figures from the KRG, Kurdistan currently exports about 600,000 barrels a day, though that number is difficult to account for. Other reports indicated it exports something closer to 430,000 or around ten percent of Iraqs total oil exports.

Most Kurdish oil is moved through a pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan. Since 2014 the KRG has attracted investment from ExxonMobil, Chevron and Total SA.

Production has suffered since the collapse in oil prices in 2014, and managing the countrys oil industry has been a challenge since the Islamic State (IS) seized about a third of Iraq, including the city of Mosul near the Iraqi-Kurdish border. The KRG has been plagued by high costs, rising debts and falling production from some of its developed fields.

Yet the most persistent oil problem for the KRG has been its relationship with Baghdad. According to the Iraqi constitution, revenues from oil exports are to be shared between Baghdad and the KRG, based in the Kurdish city of Erbil. But the Kurds have long felt this relationship to be unfair and have sought ways to develop oil resources independently from Baghdad. Related: Supermajors Prepare For A Permian Bidding War

The KRG first began offering oil contracts to foreign companies in 2007, against the wishes of the central government in Baghdad. In 2014 the Iraqi government threatened to sue any company that bought Kurdish oil without first going through the authorities in Baghdad.

While the war against IS brought challenges to the KRG, it also provided them with opportunities. As the Iraqi military was routed by IS forces, Kurdish troops became instrumental in retaking lost territory. The city of Kirkuk, near the border of the KRGs territory, has been occupied by Kurdish troops since 2014. Massive oil fields located just to the West of the city have also been occupied, and the Kurdish troops have yet to withdraw. With the Kurds ensconced in Kirkuk, the Iraqi central government currently controls less than half of the countrys oil reserves.

A key aspect of the referendum is cementing the Kurdish claim to Kirkuk and its adjacent oil fields.

There are significant barriers to an independent Kurdistan. The referendum has very little international support, and the United States, the EU and others have come out against it. It faces vigorous opposition in Baghdad, where the prime minister of Iraq Haider al-Abadi calls it unconstitutional and illegitimate.

Turkey, Iran and the Assad regime in Syria are all staunchly against the referendum: with significant Kurdish minorities within their own borders, they worry what an independent Kurdish state could do to regional stability.

While Iran enjoys political influence inside Iraq, the country with the most influence over the KRG is Turkey. The country has a large Kurdish minority and has a vested interest in preventing an independent Kurdistan from becoming a reality. It is also the chief transit nation for Kurdish oil to escape the land-locked KRG area. Should the Turks choose to shut down the Ceyhan pipeline, the KRG would have no export capacity. It therefore seems unlikely that the Kurds will do anything that might overly upset the Turks.

There is also evidence to suggest that the vote is chiefly a political ploy by the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) and its governing party the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), designed to put pressure on the Iraqi government and bring about new negotiations regarding Kirkuk, oil revenue sharing and the broader parameters of Kurdish independence.

Domestic Kurdish politics is also a factor. Kurdish president Massoud Barzani has exceeded his term in office and will be stepping down before elections in November. But before he does, Barzani wishes to begin the process of bringing full Kurdish independence.

The referendum may not be intended to lead to an independent Kurdistan right now, despite Kurdish rhetoric to that effect, but rather show Kurdish conviction and strengthen their demand to be taken seriously by Baghdad. As they control half the countrys reserves, its possible the Kurds may maneuver to collect half the receipts from Iraqi exports.

This interpretation makes sense, given the world oil situation. With prices still hovering at or below $50 and the Kurdish economy weakened by years of war, the KRG has been unable to pay off its debts to the major oil companies. It has little leverage to sway the Turks, who will shut down all Kurdish exports if the referendum movement goes too far.

The United States, which has been closely allied with the Kurds in the fight against IS, is against the referendum but will likely want to continue developing a relationship with Kurdish groups in Iraq and Syria, as a counter to the rising influence of Iran and Russia. This gives the Kurds some leverage over Iraq, though not enough to pull off full independence.

Related: Does Russia Really Need The OPEC Deal?

However, the referendum could have some major ramifications on the geopolitics of the Middle East, as well as the price of oil. Should the dispute between Erbil and Baghdad turn nastier after the vote, its possible that either Kurdish or Iraqi oil exports could be disrupted. If the country itself splits in two, it could potentially take hundreds of thousands of barrels-per-day offline and throw Iraq back into chaos.

Yet if the Kurds are able to successfully leverage the vote into better terms from the Iraqis, it could presage the arrival of a new major oil producer onto the world scene. As Bloomberg points out, if the KRG were to become an independent nation, it would probably immediately qualify for OPEC membership, and become a major oil producer almost immediately.

By Gregory Brew for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Less than two years after it returned to the international oil markets, Iran is quick to embrace the alternative of oil: renewable energy sources. The countrys Deputy Energy Minister, Houshang Fallahatian, told media that Tehran plans to add 1,000 MW of new renewable power capacity every year over the next five years. Revenues from renewables should reach US$60 billion if the plan succeeds.

At the moment, Irans power capacity is 77,000 MW, of which renewables make up a tiny 360 MW portion. Of this, wind power represents 141 MW, while the potential for wind power capacity in the country is 100,000 MW. Renewables, including hydropower, account for just 6 percent of energy generation, versus natural gas 90 percent share.

By 2022, however, renewables could come to account for a quarter of power generation in Iran, Mohammad Sadeqzadeh, the head of state-held Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization (Satba) said last week. Overall, Iran is aiming for a 5,000 MW annual increase in power generation capacity to meet growing domestic demand and expand its presence on the regional electricity market.

The government is ambitious, however, eyeing an almost a double increase in renewables capacity to 700 MW by the end of March 2018, versus earlier plans for 600 MW. Plans also include the addition of more than 4,000 MW in wind power capacity by 2020. Solar power also makes a lot of sense in Iran, which boasts an average of 300 sunny days and 2800 hours of sunshine annually.

Last month, Oilprice reported that foreign investors have filed proposals for a combined US$3.6 billion to develop renewable energy projects in oil- and gas-rich Iran. According to Sadeqzadeh, the target to add at least 1 GW of renewable capacity a year is feasible.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Oil workers in Nigeria stopped on Monday the loading of oil products, natural gas, and aviation fuel as the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) joined an indefinite nationwide strike of its current affiliate United Labour Congress of Nigeria (ULC), demanding better conditions and pay as well as recognition of the ULC.

Electricity union workers have also joined in the strike. The ULC is a breakaway union from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). ULC split from the NLC last year over power struggles, and the NUPENG oil and gas workers union is now affiliated with the ULC.

The ULC demands to be recognized and registered as a union. It also demands that roads to oil facilities be repaired and army personnel withdrawn from security duties at the oil infrastructure installations. The government, on the other hand, says the strike is illegal.

The NLC, from which ULC split, says that the new union is fake as it is not recognized by the government, and urged Nigerian workers to ignore calls for a nationwide strike.

There will be complete shutdown of all loading activities by NUPENG workers on Monday, Lagos State Chairman of ULC and Lagos zonal chairman of NUPENG, Tokunbo Korodo, told Nigerias Vanguard on Sunday.

What that means is that we are not going to load products across the country, including aviation fuel, from today until there is counter directive from the national leaders of our umbrella body, the ULC, he noted.



Related: China To Dictate Energy Growth In Coming Years

The strike that began today is not the first industrial action in the Nigerian oil sector this year.

In May, members of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, Pengassan, started a three-day nationwide strike at Chevron, Shell, and Enis unit Agip in a solidarity protest over the layoff of union members from ExxonMobil. The industrial action had begun at Exxons Nigerian subsidiary the previous week, with employees protesting against a group layoff of oil workers in December last year, when a total of 150 workers lost their jobs, including 82 members of the Pengassan union.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
By John A. Charles, Jr.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown has announced her intention to pass legislation in the short session of 2018 to place a regulatory limit on emissions of carbon dioxide by large industrial sources. Once a company exceeds the annual limit, it will have to purchase allowances for additional emissions.

Proponents estimate that the regulations will cost businesses $1.4 billion per biennium. These costs will be passed on to consumers.

Such regulations might be appropriate if there were known environmental or health benefits to reducing carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, such a clear link does not exist. Not only are benefits speculative, but they are global in nature and very long termpossibly centuries in the future.

The costs, however, are very clear. They will be known, immediate, and local . Prices of cement, steel, and millions of consumer products will have to go up.

In essence, the Governor is asking Oregonians to take one for the global team in the hope that somebody, somewhere will benefit in the misty future.

This is not likely to be embraced by voters who already feel immense strain from the high cost of housing, health insurance, and public employee pensions.

State legislators have many problems to worry about. Regulating CO 2 should not be one of them.

John A. Charles, Jr. is President and CEO of Cascade Policy Institute, Oregons free market public policy research organization.
Apple iPhone X has been the talk of the town for all its "revolutionary" features. However, crediting them for the all the technology inside the device might not be the right thing. Android has had most of these features from as early as 2009 but they failed to leave a mark like the American tech giant. Apple may have not done some of these innovations first, but it sure knows how to do it right.

These five technologies have been present since a few years now but never really made it to mainstream smartphones because they lacked refinement.

These five features have been spotted on the latest iPhone X, which in a way has left most tech-heads in awe of its beauty. However, we can't give all the credit to Apple when it comes to these ground breaking technology.

Face ID- FaceID has been in Android phones since 2011. The sophistication was nothing compared to the latest devices, but since then companies have been working on the technology. Samsung has even used it in their flagship device this year but still seems a bit slower to actually replace the fingerprint scanner. Though it was almost certain that Apple will be launching FaceID to unlock the iPhone X, but there were speculations that the tech giant would feature the touch ID as back up. However, Apple ditched it entirely. Such was the confidence in the FaceID.

Ironically, during the event, Apple's software head Craig Federighi was demonstrating FaceID and it malfunctioned. The device refused to unlock. However, Apple came up with logical explaination about the failure. The device was handled by many before it was placed there. The numerous invalid face-scans blocked the device.

Wireless Charging- The concept of wireless charging has been around since almost eight years now. Despite the convenience, there was hardly any acceptance for the simple reason that the wireless charging pads are relatively expensive and are hardly found outside developed countries like America.

iPhone X introduced the Qi certified technology which makes it compatible with current charging pads used with other Android smartphones.

Bezel-less display- This year has been the year of bezel-less displays and Apple has in a way just followed a growing trend when it comes to this technology. However, this technology has been at the forefront since two years starting from Sharp Aquos. This was followed by one of Xiaomi's most original smartphone ideas, the Mi Mix. This device had much more refinement but still didn't make it big due to lack of availability. This year's Mi Mix 2 was launched one day before Apple and came with an impressive 93 per cent body to display ratio.

OLED displays- Samsung handles almost 97 per cent of the world's total OLED production. This in itself is indicative that it has featured in a lot many Samsung devices much before Apple even struck a deal for OLED panels. OLED panels need special fabrication process which requires special state of the art assembly lines. Apple's iPhone X production is estimated to slowdown due to the high demand and since the American brand does not want Samsung to have a bargaining advantage, they are looking for new partners to produce OLED panels.

Augmented reality- Though Apple was boasting of being the first to make a device for augmented reality, there are few Android phones in the market that can claim a similar feat. Tango is an augmented reality platform created by Google which enables devices to be aware of their relative position with their surroundings. Again, despite being present since some time now, the technology is underutilized by developers.
As ambassadors, foreign ministers, and heads of state gather in New York this week for the opening of the United Nations General Assembly, hundreds of critical global issues and vital events vie for their attention. Terror and nuclear proliferation. Development goals and climate change. Reforming the UN itself, its meetings and its budgets. Refugees.

Across the Atlantic in Geneva, UN delegates have been convening at the 36th Human Rights Council for several weeks, and NGOs from every corner of the world have appealed for attention to the trauma and troubles they face: hunger and a collapsed economy in Venezuela; ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya in Myanmar; imprisonment of dissenters in China and Turkey; conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.

Into the mix of crises demanding the worlds concern is the horrifying erosion of the longstanding norms protecting the delivery of medical care during times of peace and war alike. Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has, since our earliest days in the 1980s, documented and advocated to stop attacks on health personnel and facilities both during civil unrest and in armed conflicts, and to protect the rights of the sick and wounded to medical care.

Weve worked to provide rigorous documentation of the worst of these violations in todays troubled world via our online map of attacks on health in Syria. Now, PHR and a coalition of human rights and humanitarian organizations are urging the nations of the world to reiterate their commitments to the laws that protect health and to promise to punish those who violate them. In the case of Syria, the deliberate targeting of health care by governments and their militaries is, grotesquely, an actual strategy of war. The Syrian government and their Russian allies consider those who provide medical care to the enemy as the enemy itself.

On Tuesday, as I prepared to speak at an event in Geneva, I learned of the killing of a beloved International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) physiotherapist in Afghanistan who worked with those who had lost limbs during the countrys years of conflict. A few months ago, I witnessed the trial of a doctor in the southeastern Turkish town of Srnak, arrested and jailed for doing his duty: providing emergency medical care to sick and wounded patients. Four witnesses for the prosecution, also prisoners themselves, stated in court that they had been tortured to sign statements against this doctor. Nevertheless, our medical colleague was sent back to prison.

The abduction, arrest, and outright killing of thousands of health care workers, as well as the destruction of and damage to hospitals and clinics, have profound impacts on the health and well-being of populations for years and even decades to come.

Governments have said the right things and passed appropriate statements. UN Security Council Resolution 2286, passed in May 2016, is the first-ever Council resolution that specifically addresses attacks on health services in armed conflicts. The resolution urges member states and the UN Secretary General to take specific proactive steps to prevent attacks and hold perpetrators accountable. But more than one year since its passage by the Council, the laws protecting medical care continue to be routinely violated with utter impunity in dozens of countries. And the Security Council has done virtually nothing to implement its resolution.

In Geneva this week, the governments of Switzerland and Colombia sought to focus on this crisis from a human rights perspective. It is clearly a humanitarian emergency, and humanitarian organizations such as Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the ICRC have put this crisis squarely on their agendas. Attacks on health also represent a public health crisis, so the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a vital data gathering effort to help gauge and report the scale and scope of the problem.

But this crisis also belongs at the heart of the human rights agenda as health workers are arrested, tortured, and executed for treating patients or advocating for them; as facilities are invaded, shelled, or bombed; as militaries and armed groups turn hospitals into bases for military operations; as ambulances are fired on; as aid convoys are blocked; and as medicines are stripped out of supply lines in deliberate attempts to harm civilian populations.

The most fundamental rights to life and security of the person are under attack: the right not to be arbitrarily arrested, the right not to be tortured, the right to freedom of movement, and of course, the right to the highest attainable standard of health. These all are threatened by the continual erosion of the rules protecting health care. Indeed, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health Dainius Parus this week called out the ongoing assault on health facilities and workers as an attack on the right to health.

So what can be done? The Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition, of which PHR is a member, believes it is critical for the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Human Rights Council to document assaults on health as part of their routine human rights assessments. The UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health has made a critical commitment to studying and reporting on laws that improperly criminalize the delivery of health in a range of countries and situations, such as the case I witnessed in Turkey.

We expect attacks on the medical mission to be incorporated into the next Human Rights Council resolution on the Right to Health, scheduled for June 2018. International Independent Commissions of Inquiry, such as one that must be established by the UN Security Council for Yemen, should pay special attention to the crimes of bombing and shelling hospitals, and of blocking medical supplies during armed conflicts. Critically, the UNs human rights bodies should call out perpetrators and press for accountability.

Normalization of violence against health should shock the conscience of all states and all people. We look forward to deeper engagement of the UN Secretary General. The human rights and humanitarian responses of governments must be more robust. Working with NGOs and local health workers, we must tackle this crisis together. We have the laws, and we have the rhetoric. We now need action.
As far as reigning in annoying experts is concerned, Congress and the judiciary are a bust, albeit with a few tiny bright spots on the distant horizon, twinkling away like dying lighthouses on a storm-tossed sea. But what about the Presidency?

As noted earlier in this series, Donald Trump was the candidate of people who are fed up with experts. Has he delivered? Well, yes and no.

Lets take a look at the Congressional Review Act (CRA), the law that allows Congress, under certain circumstances, to overrule Federal regulations. As noted earlier, that law was used precisely once between its enactment in 1996 and the end of 2016. But in just the first six months of Trumps term Congress overruled seventeen regulations. Thats a spectacular relative increase, but in absolute terms its pitiable compared to the tens of thousands of regulations issued over that period.

Or how about the State Department? During his campaign Trump was brutally critical of foreign policy experts, describing them as the good folks who brought us Vietnam, failed to anticipate the collapse of the Soviet Union, got us into Iraq and Afghanistan, badly bungled the Arab Spring, helped create a disaster in Syria and appeased North Korea. Trump dislikes and distrusts experts of all stripes, but he loathes foreign policy experts most of all.

Naturally, Trump cleaned out the stables at State, demanding the resignations of every senior, non-Civil Service diplomat and installing as Secretary a man who never held public office and who was most decidedly not a part of the foreign policy establishment. Well, okay, thats his prerogative as a new President. But now what?

The people who held the senior positions at State held them because they knew something about foreign policy  i.e., they were experts at it. Are we going to replace them with non-experts? Do we really want someone manning the Balkan Desk who cant find the Balkans on a map of Eastern Europe?

Trump doesnt trust foreign policy experts, but he surely cant appoint amateurs to handle these important jobs. Therefore, hes stuck, and State will likely remain a hollowed-out institution for a long time. The ironic result, as Ive mentioned before, is that State is run by career bureaucrats who hate Trump and his policies.

In the interests of time, Ill mention only one other example: the EPA. Almost the first act of EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt was to remove most of the professors who served on the Agencys scientific advisory panels. Environmentalists and scientists were outraged, but Pruitt claimed he was merely following the law. The Federal Advisory Committee Act requires the membership of the advisory committee to be fairly balanced in terms of the points of view represented and that the advice and recommendations of the advisory committee will not be inappropriately influenced by the appointing authority. Yet, a full three-quarters of the EPAs scientific advisors had received research grants from the Agency  that is, the appointing authority.

Okay, so Pruitt also cleaned out the stables, ridding the panels of experts who were merely lackeys of the career bureaucrats at EPA. Thats his prerogative and it may even be the law of the land. But now what?

The enabling legislation requires not only that the experts be unbiased, but also that they be experts. Is Pruitt going to appoint people who know nothing about environmental science? That would be absurd, and possibly unlawful. But if not, where is he going to find unbiased experts? Are there environmental scientists anywhere in the USA who arent beholden to the Federal government for the grants that support their careers?

It wasnt always thus. Back in the 1990s the scientists on the advisory panels were truly independent, and as a result they were a constant irritant to EPA regulators who wanted to impose strict limits on industries and states. All too often, the advisory panels pointed out that the research didnt support such strict rules.

But the regulators knew how to fix thatthey began passing out grants to tame professors who would come back with the research results the regulators wanted. And when they came back with them, those professors got appointed to the advisory panels. The same thing happened across the Federal government, especially regarding grants from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.

The scientists who decide who gets these grants are much more aggressive in attacking environmental issues than is the general public. Maybe thats because they know more, and maybe its just groupthink. Since we dont know, we need unbiased advice at places like the EPA. But, as noted, there arent any unbiased experts in environmental science. Hence, my guess is that Mr. Pruitt is up a famous creek without a paddle.

The Trump Administration has run up against what we might call The Universal Law of Expertise: Experts gain vast knowledge, and then they hog that knowledge from everybody else until it degenerates into dogma via groupthink.

What to do? In the concluding posts in this seriesyes, the series actually will come to an end, and before Judgment Day, too  I will try to get my arms around this dilemma.

Next up: DP&TE, Part XII
Lynda Schuster has had quite a life. now safely squared away in Squirrel Hill, she spent the 1980s and 90s in one danger zone after another. She reported on wars, insurrections and misery in Latin America, the Middle East and Africa for The Wall Street Journal and Christian Science Monitor. After marrying a U.S. diplomat on the rise, she landed with him in the unrelaxing posts of Peru, Mozambique and Liberia. But writing a memoir might be her most challenging mission yet: Can someone who has dodged bullets as a scribe and been driven around in armored convoys as an ambassadors wife tell her life story without bluster and bravado? Her engaging and humane Dirty Wars and Polished Silver provides the answer: Yes, absolutely.



The self-described nice Jewish girl from Detroit had a fascination with the wider world from childhood. Her nose for global trouble was honed early. Not quite 17, she lit out for Israel, fleeing family angst (divorced parents and all that entails) to work on a kibbutz. In her memoir, she arrives just in time for the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Descending into bomb shelters while fighter jets scream overhead, Schuster gets a taste for action: The thing about waras long as youre not dyingis that its oddly exhilarating.

After college and journalism grad school, Schuster makes use of the best career advicesome lucky breaksand snags a gig at The Wall Street Journal. After earning her stripes covering agriculture in the Dallas bureau, she leaps at an opening to report from Latin America. Its 1981. Reagan-era shenanigans are afoot. The stakes are high. This is when foreign correspondents usually come off as insufferable swashbucklers. But Schuster wins you over with total recall of her insecurities. On her third day on the job, in Costa Rica on the brink of bankruptcy, her sources have stood her up and I find myself sitting in the coffee shop of a faded downtown hotel, taking deep breaths through my mouth and trying not to become hysterical. Or pass out from hyperventilation. The Journals two million readers back home are waiting to read about [Costa Ricas troubles]and Im wondering why I didnt choose to become a dental hygienist.

Its also the day she meets the suave and authentically legendary foreign correspondent Dial Torgerson of the Los Angeles Times. They fall madly in love and hopscotch around Latin America, moving in and out of combat zones and political intrigue, and tie the knot. Hes 53 (older than her father), divorced with grown kids; shes 26, thriving in her work and determined to stay childfree and have a life of adventure. They make Mexico City home base.

Ten months after their wedding, Torgerson is killed while reporting in Honduras, his car blasted by a landmine later shown to be planted by Nicaraguans and detonated on command. Schusters account of the urgent negotiations to extract his body from Honduras, her adrenaline- soaked rage mixed with grieving, has the pace of an action movie. On and on we fly, hurtling through a dusk of matchless beauty, she writes, mission completed. The glory of the heavens at my elbow, the pieces of my husband at my feet.

After that, most of us would crawl into a shell. Schuster goes to Beirut, where a civil war is in full bloom. Again, she doesnt boast about her derring-do. The editors needed someone to fill in temporarily; Im available. A perfect match! After a brush with mortality herself, she heads back to the USA, assigned to Miami to work on Latin America again. On a routine visit to the State Department for a briefing from the Argentina desk officer, her life changes again. A tall, lanky man in his mid-30s, Dennis Jett has dirty blonde hair, blue eyes, nice smile. Terrible tie, though, the color of dried vomit. Hes divorced and not shy. Romance ensues, he moves to Miamiand then Malawi. Hes No. 2 at the U.S. embassy; she connects with the Christian Science Monitor to cover South Africa, a short plane ride away. Schuster is back in action, covering the waning days of apartheid.

Jett gets promoted to bigger and messier Liberia. Schuster senses real danger from her aggressive reporting in Johannesburg which makes it easier to ditch the journalism thing and accept his marriage proposal. Im beginning to graspobvious to most sentient beingswhats important. Love, for instance.  If the tradeoff for being happy again is to embrace something that veers perilously close to looking like Moms life, then so be it.

They marry in Liberia in 1989 in the middle of a rebel incursion, which is just a taste of things to come. A full-scale insurrection follows. All non-essential Americans are evacuated and Schuster does her best to be essential. Marrying Dennis was supposed to keep me away from war, but here I am, yet again, desperate to be in the thick of it. Finally forced to leave, Schuster decamps for Sierra Leone, where she awaits Jetts safe passage out. Its one of the best set pieces of the book, the tick-tock of mounting disaster and the courage of the U.S. diplomats in the face of real danger.

Ill let the reader discover the latter parts of Dirty Wars and Polished Silver, a satisfying third act that details the life of an ambassadors wife. Jett becomes Americas man in Mozambique, and Schuster must adjust to the demands of protocol. The ante is upped, however, when he takes the top spot in Peruwhere they inhabit a 22,000-square-foot embassy residence with a staff of 23. The glare of the spotlight is intense. Again, Schusters humor and common sense shine through, as well as her sense of adventure. Theres never a convenient time to be pregnant, so why not be so in a country in the midst of a guerrilla war?

Yes, at 38, she broke her pledge not to procreate. An alarm in my womb went off, she told Dennis, and they beat the reproduction odds for their demographics. (No need for a spoiler alert: The authors bio mentions their daughter.) Its a great twist in a memoir that might appear to be exclusively about geopolitical turmoil amid death and destruction. How else could we have survived as a species if mothers didnt become hormonally captive love-slaves to their children? Schuster asks. I want us to grow old together. Glamour and adventure be damned.
QUEENSBURY  A Fort Ann man who had an illegal switchblade knife when police encountered him in February is headed to prison for up to 3 years.

Derek J. Webster, 28, was arrested Feb. 25 after Glens Falls Police officers found two men sleeping in a vehicle behind The Daily Double bar in Glens Falls and checked on their welfare, police said.

Webster told police that he had a knife in his pocket. A search turned up an illegal switchblade and a quantity of cocaine, police said.

Webster has a prior felony conviction for coercion in Washington County Court, which makes it illegal for him to have a weapon. He pleaded guilty Wednesday in Warren County Court to attempted criminal possession of a weapon, a felony, in satisfaction of all charges and Warren County Judge John Hall sentenced him to 1.5 to 3 years in state prison.
JOHNSBURG  The owner of a storage building next to the North Creek rail station said he has locked Saratoga & North Creek Railway out of the building because of $25,000 in unpaid rent.

The large building, located at 320 Main St., to the left of the driveway into the rail depot, was being used by the railroad for storage, including that of equipment for the annual Polar Express holiday trips, a backhoe and other equipment, according to property owner John McAlonen.

McAlonen said the company was behind on its rent into last year, and its last check, for $1,000, bounced. In all, he said, $25,000 is owed.

McAlonen said he locked the building on Wednesday, and heard the next day from a representative of the company, who said he would get back to him about payment. But as of Monday morning, he had not heard anything further.

Justin Gonyo, the railroads general manager, said in an email that the company has no comment on the situation, describing it as private relations between private companies.

The railway is also behind on its payments to Warren County, owing about $4,200 from last year, and has not filed monthly ridership reports this summer, according to the Warren County Treasurers Office. The company guarantees $81,000 in revenue each year.

Supervisors have questioned the companys tourist train schedule in recent years, saying that its basic 6-hour trips from Saratoga Springs to North Creek and back appeal only to die-hard train riders. Breaking trips into southern and northern routes could attract more riders, said Lake Luzerne Supervisor Gene Merlino, chairman of the county boards Tourism Committee.

The company has had money problems on and off throughout its stay in Warren County, with numerous late payments and cuts to train trip schedules. A lack of freight traffic that it hoped would help pay bills has been blamed for much of the financial trouble.

Its parent company, Iowa Pacific Holdings LLC, has been sued in Colorado by the Polar Express license holder, Rail Events Inc., which claims Iowa Pacific owes $3 million in unpaid royalties for Polar Express, including for the Saratoga & North Creek trips.

A lawyer for Iowa Pacific told Train News Wire in February that Iowa Pacific was withholding payment.

[Iowa Pacific Holdings] is withholding a disputed amount of money due to what we believe are unfair practices related to competition and pricing, Iowa Pacifics General Counsel David Michaud wrote to Trains News Wire.
FORT EDWARD  Four charges have been dismissed against a registered sex offender from Kingsbury who is accused of giving teen boys money and gifts to perform sex acts in front of him.

The ruling will delay a trial for 62-year-old Robert N. Middleton, who was expected to stand trial this fall. Middleton has also hired a new lawyer, bringing in E. Stewart Jones Jr., widely considered one of the top defense lawyers in the Capital District.

Middleton had faced a 17-count indictment for alleged sex-related crimes with three boys who were 13 to 17 years old between 2014 and earlier this year. He has pleaded not guilty.

Washington County Judge Kelly McKeighan found evidence of problems and technical issues with two of the felony charges of luring of a child and misdemeanor patronizing a person for prostitution, dismissing the charges without prejudice.

The decision will result in the Washington County District Attorneys Office presenting the case a second time to a county grand jury in an attempt to re-file the charges, District Attorney Tony Jordan said. Jordan said he anticipated the same counts would be filed again.

Jones had no comment on the case as of Monday.

Middleton is not accused of having sexual contact with the teens, but is instead charged with paying them and giving them gifts to have sexual encounters with each other.

He faces five counts of sexually motivated felony, three counts of attempted use of a child in a sexual performance and counts of promoting prostitution, patronizing a person for prostitution and endangering the welfare of a child, court records show.

Middleton was arrested in April after a Washington County Sheriffs Office investigation that began when police learned of allegations that boys were having sexual contact at his Quarry Crossing home.

Investigators located three teens who told police of being paid and rewarded with gifts for having sex with each other and for recruiting new boys, authorities said. Court records allege that at least one of the boys told police that Middleton asked him to have sexual contact.

Middleton, who is a registered sex offender because of a 1990 sex crime conviction in California, is free on bail, pending further court action.
FORT EDWARD  After a 10-year pause, countywide assessment is back on the agenda.

Washington County may begin assessing for towns if enough of them want the service. Each town would need to pay for its share of the work.

When it was considered a decade ago, town assessors opposed the move.

But now, some towns have asked the county for help with data collection and other big tasks associated with doing townwide reassessments.

Ten years ago, it was not wildly popular, said county Administrator Chris DeBolt. But if there are enough towns with assessors retiring ... we could offer it as a service.

Supervisors discussed it during Mondays budget meeting. They agreed to begin looking into the idea, but did not set aside funds to start the program in the 2018 budget.

The key would be to get at least four towns to sign up, which would be enough to pay for a staffer to do the assessing.

The county would likely have to start by reassessing each town, DeBolt said.

There are some towns in the county where theres concerns about the cost of a reval. If you went with the county, youd probably have to reval, he said.

He believes the county could train assessors to provide a professional and consistent assessment throughout the region.

They would be trained to recognize the local market trends, he added.

Theres the argument, My assessor knows my community. I dont want someone from Fort Edward assessing, because they dont really understand the market in my town. But we could train them to do this right, DeBolt said.

There may be less opposition this time, said Real Property Director Laura Chadwick.

We had assessors that covered many towns. If one town switched (to the county) they lost a third of their income, she said. Now, a lot of them are down to one town. So now theres not a major impact.

In addition, each town would continue to run its own Board of Assessment Review, Budget Officer and Hebron Supervisor Brian Campbell noted, saying that should reassure residents that they would maintain local control.

The Board of Assessment Review is made up of residents who decide on every assessment complaint. They sift through paperwork filed each year on Grievance Day, and hear anyone who wishes to make a presentation to the board. Property owners generally bring proof that other properties are similar, but are assessed for less. The board decides whether the assessment is fair.
Welcome Guest! You Are Here:
A Davenport man pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court, Davenport, in connection with a conspiracy to distribute heroin.

Derrick A. Stewart Jr., 49, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute 1,000 grams of a substance containing heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The conspiracy charge carries a prison sentence of 20 years to life, while the firearm charge carries a sentence of five years to life. He will be sentenced Jan. 16.

Per the plea agreement, federal prosecutors will dismiss additional charges of possession with intent to deliver and felon in possession of a firearm.

According to the plea agreement:

On March 2, Scott County Sheriffs deputies served a search warrant at the West 51st Street home of Stewart and co-defendant Teresa M. Bush, 42.

While searching their bedroom, officers found a locked safe that contained a clear plastic baggie with approximately a half ounce of heroin, $10,600 in cash and a loaded .40-caliber Hi-point pistol. The found a loaded .380-caliber pistol in the closet and a loaded .22-caliber rifle on the bedroom floor.

On the bed was a digital scale, a roll of aluminum foil that was intended to be used and had been used by Bush and Stewart to package heroin, as well as prepared foils to be used to package user quantities of heroin for distribution.

They also found an EBT card belonging to a heroin customer.

Stewart spoke with agents and denied distributing heroin and said they would not find any drugs in the bedroom and that any syringes found were for his diabetes.

Later, Stewart and Bush admitted that they have purchased heroin for personal use and for distribution.

They had been driving to Chicago for the past five to six years to get heroin. Three years prior, their supplier had been arrested, and they were referred to a new supplier.

Over the past three years, they obtained heroin every other week from the new supplier. For the first year, they purchased 20 grams every other week; the second year, they purchased 25 grams of heroin every other week; and the third year, they purchased 50 grams of heroin every other week.

They paid $6,000 for 50 grams of heroin each time. As a result, Bush and Stewart are responsible for at least 1,000 grams of a mixture containing heroin.

When Stewart was distributing heroin between 2008 and March 2, 2017, in furtherance of the drug conspiracy, he possessed a firearm to protect him, the drugs and his drug money, according to the plea agreement.

Bush pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute drugs. She also will be sentenced Jan. 16.
One person is dead after a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 30 in Whiteside County.

Whiteside County deputies were called at 4:57 a.m., Sunday, to the area of U.S.30 and McNeil Road in Rock Falls, Ill.

Deputies say a westbound Ford Focus driven by Timothy L. Ohda, 60, of Rock Falls collided with an eastbound tractor-trailer driven by Christopher M. Thomas, 42, of Streator, Ill. in the eastbound lane.

Ohda was pronounced dead at the scene by Whiteside County Coroner Joe McDonald. Thomas was not injured.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Rock Falls Police Department, Illinois State Police, Sterling and Rock Falls Fire Departments, CGH EMS, and the Illinois Department of Transportation.
A good Monday to all. We're starting the work-week off with a chance of rain and cooler temps. Here are the weather details from the National Weather Service.

1. Rain chances increase for later today

There's a slight chance of showers after 5 p.m. Otherwise the day will be mostly sunny with a high near 75 degrees.

The chance of showers and thunderstorms increases to 50 percent overnight. Skies will be mostly cloudy with a low around 61 degrees. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch are possible with higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tuesday brings chances of showers between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Skies will be partly sunny with a high near 84 degrees.

2. Davenport road work update

Road projects continue in Davenport. Here's the latest report from the city of Davenport.

 Kimberly Road

Crews are performing overnight resurfacing work on Kimberly Road/Spruce Hills Drive between Elmore Avenue and Utica Ridge Road.

Resurfacing work will be performed between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., and require intermittent lane closures. The road will remain open to at least one lane of travel in all directions.

A 10 ft. lane width restriction is in place while lane reductions are in effect.

Drivers should use caution when traveling this area and to watch for signs and flaggers.

The project is estimated to be completed by Nov. 21.

 Rockingham Road

Completion of the Rockingham Road reconstruction and resurfacing project has been significantly delayed because of underground gas main work.

All work on the gas main in the area where storm sewer reconstruction is expected to be completed by Sunday.

Crews will return on Sept. 25 to continue moving forward with storm sewer pipe installation and related curb and gutter.

Watch for changing traffic controls as storm sewer reconstruction moves west to Birchwood.

After storm sewer work restarts a new schedule for estimated project completion will be released.

 Other significant closures/lane reductions

Work continues on Brady Street, Bridge Avenue, Elmore Avenue, Forest Grove Road, Kimberly Road/Division Street, Locust Street, Veterans Memorial Avenue, and Waverly Road/Lincoln Avenue.

3. How this Blue Grass family adjusted to a newborn with Dwarfism

ICYMI: Emily and Logan Lyon were told after an ultrasound at 24 weeks that their baby had a 50/50 chance of living.

I prepared myself not to bring a baby home," Emily Lyon said. We prepared for the worst; we didnt set up the nursery and have that fun experience. I couldnt open presents at a baby shower."

Today, 13-month-old Lambert Lyon has blonde hair that is starting to get long and his dad thinks he is overdue for his first haircut. He has seven teeth, loves watching movies, likes pigs and elephants and can breathe on his own for two hours each day. He gets enough visitors, Logan Lyon said, they sometimes joke about needing a revolving door.

Photographer Jeff Cook captured the Lyons' life at their farmhouse outside of Blue Grass, Iowa. View more.

4. Sheriff believes more walls at Scott County Jail could improve capacity problem

5. 'Veep' and 'The Handmaid's Tale' win top Emmy Award prizes

The dystopian vision of "The Handmaid's Tale," the deeply cynical Washington comedy "Veep" and the ever-topical "Saturday Night Live" won top series honors Sunday in an Emmy Awards ceremony that took almost nonstop aim at President Donald Trump in awards and speeches. Read more.

6. 1 dead in Whiteside County crash

One person is dead after a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 30 in Whiteside County.

Whiteside County deputies were called at 4:57 a.m., Sunday, to the area of U.S. 30 and McNeil Road in Rock Falls, Ill.

Deputies say a westbound Ford Focus driven by Timothy L. Ohda, 60, of Rock Falls collided with an eastbound tractor-trailer driven by Christopher M. Thomas, 42, of Streator, Ill. in the eastbound lane.

Ohda was pronounced dead at the scene by Whiteside County Coroner Joe McDonald. Thomas was not injured.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Rock Falls Police Department, Illinois State Police, Sterling and Rock Falls Fire Departments, CGH EMS, and the Illinois Department of Transportation.
President Trump said before we ask what is fair for illegal immigrants we must ask what is fair to American families, students, taxpayers and job seekers.

We have homeless Americans going without eating, elderly going without needed medicine, brave men and women in our military going without proper equipment and veterans going without promised benefits. So why do we spend billions on illegal immigration before helping our own?

Thanks to American taxpayers, these illegals are sending $56 billion each year back to their home countries because you are providing them with food, housing and a free education. The government expects U.S. citizens to pay back their student loans while giving illegals a free education.

Now we are to feel sorry for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients, kids brought here illegally from other countries and they average around 20 years of age. We should be focusing on the 14 million kids born in America and living in poverty.

What's fair about an illegal crossing the border to have a baby and given tax-funded services immediately while a disabled veteran coming back from Afghanistan is forced to wait a year to receive his benefits? It's disgraceful.

Our immigration system is not broken. The only thing broken is the lack of enforcement of existing laws, which in Iowa, falls on Attorney General Tom Miller and if he won't do anything, then it's up to you to call U.S. Immigration and Customs and Immigration (ICE) to report illegals.

Don Erbst Sr.

Davenport
Anglers have a window of opportunity to fish the Sturgis City Dams before they are again closed to the public.

The dams are scheduled to be drained next week so engineers can inspect and test the structural integrity of the dam structures. All licensed anglers are invited to fish the dams for another week or so prior to the draining operation. State fishing regulations apply.

"People have been very excited about being able to fish up there," said Sturgis City Manager Daniel Ainslie.

After the city announced the dams would be open to fishing, both Ainslie and Sturgis Public Information Officer Christina Steele were inundated with questions on the city's Facebook page about the rules concerning fishing the dams.

The state has stocked rainbow trout in the dams in the past and so state fishing rules apply for any anglers using the city dams. There is a five fish per day limit, and those who fish must have a license.

"As it drains, if there are as many fish in there as there are now, some of them will die. We are trying to encourage people to fish," he said.

Once the analysis is done, the city will allow the dams to fill again. Next spring, the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks will again stock the dams with rainbow trout.

To access the dams from Sturgis, drive south on Vanocker Canyon Road. About 3 miles south of Belle Joli Winery, turn left onto U.S. Forest Service property. Drive a short distance to a small parking area, and the dams are about a 2-mile hike from there. There is no vehicle access available.

Ainslie cautions people to look for signs so they don't trespass on private property.

"After the rally this year, we put up some additional signage letting people know the rules," he said. "There's also signs that tell people not to climb on the dams. That's a common sense thing, but we want to remind people to be safe when they are out there."

After the Sturgis City Council in June approved a Sturgis Watershed Visitor Master Plan, the city realized it needed to determine the structural integrity of the dams, Ainslie said.

They first spoke with several engineering firms and then floated the idea of having students use the analysis as a senior project. The city has since partnered with the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology to do an analysis of the four dams.

"It will be a value to the taxpayers here in Sturgis and a value to the students," he said.

Scott Kenner, department head and professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Mines, will oversee five seniors who will determine how sound the dam structures are and also perform a risk assessment that will show what the consequences would be if the dams failed.

"We have people who have speculated what might happen if the dams fail, but it is much better if we have engineers who can determine the dams' drainage basins and tell us where there would be an impact and where there wouldn't," Ainslie said.

The assessment is to be completed in December or January, he said.

It should give the city a full analysis they have never had and a good idea as to whether they need to do any repairs, Ainslie said. He said the city council will need to determine how they proceed depending on the conclusions of the final report.

"At that point we will have to see if there are significant repairs that have to be done. And if there are, then it will have to be a council discussion as to whether we want to spend money to make repairs, or what are the options," he said.

In order to fully inspect the dams, the city will begin letting water out of the spillways at the dams. The area will close to fishing around Sept. 25 once the draining project begins.

The dams are spring fed and act as a holding area for the watershed, so the idea is to let out more water than comes in for the inspection to take place.

"That water is not used domestically by the city anymore," Ainslie said.

In 1978, the city of Sturgis purchased the domestic water distribution and storage infrastructure from the Jarvis Davenport heirs that was originally built in the early 1900s. Due to Environmental Protection Agency regulations, the above ground water storage system  aka City Dams  was abandoned as a source of drinking water for the city of Sturgis. For the last 40 years, the only public recreational use of the City Dams property has been through executive privilege or outright trespass.

So why has the city turned its eye to the City Dams and decided to open the area for recreational use?

"This is an asset that city taxpayers have paid a significant sum for, and the residents really haven't seen much use of it," Ainslie said. "Many councils have talked about the prospect that this should be used by the public or it should be sold."

Ainslie said having the City Dams just a short distance from Sturgis enhances the quality of life of local residents.

"It's just a peaceful, tranquil area where people can hike up on an afternoon and enjoy nature," he said.
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. | The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead we have emerged stronger and more unified, said Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York City, during a dedication speech on Dec. 31, 2001. We feel renewed devotion to the principles of political, economic and religious freedom, the rule of law and respect for human life. We are more determined than ever to live our lives in freedom.

September 11, 2001, changed America forever. On this day, nearly 3,000 people lost their lives and more than 6,000 people were injured when the World Trade Center and the Pentagon came under attack.

For many, the attacks on this fateful day lit a flame within them. A light that led them down a path to join the United States armed forces and bring the fight to the nations enemies. One of these individuals is Capt. Samuel Rosa, a pilot assigned to the 34th Bomb Squadron.

I grew up in and lived in New York my whole life and was in college when it all started unfolding, Rosa said. In the beginning I thought it was just a freak accident. When it happened, everyone began leaving class and started following the coverage as it came out. Then the second plane hit.

Rosa spoke about the day as if he had just experienced it, explaining how uncertainty hung in the air and what followed when fear clutched the hearts of New York.

It became a panic, no one knew what was going on and they didnt know if their families were safeif anyone was safe, Rosa explained. No one knew what was going to come next. Was it a terrorist attack? Was it going to be a full on war? So everyone panicked.

While the city itself went into a frenzy, the news slowly spilled out onto the rest of the country.

We were in class when we heard the news, said Cindy Rosa, Captain Rosas wife and an Air Force veteran. Classes just stopped -- no one could believe it was happening. There was justsadness across everyones faces. It was an unexplainable feeling.

After the attack, Rosa began to seriously consider doing something about the situation. The tragedy of that day ultimately led to his decision to enlist in the military and ensure this never happened again.

I come from a family with very little military affiliation and growing up in the city it was always an option, but was not very popular amongst my peers, Rosa said. But after this, everyone just wanted to know what they could do to fight back. Shortly after, I was looking at the Air Force and was wondering to myself what I could do to play my part.

Rosa was originally enlisted until he earned his commission in 2012. Now as a pilot in the 34th BS, Rosa is fighting terrorism across the globe in an effort to stop future attacks against the U.S., against innocent people, and against the world. He explained seeing the firsthand effects of what terrorist attacks can do, it makes him take pride in what he is doing and reconfirms he is doing the right thing.

Being married to someone who was born and raised [in New York], I can see the pride he has not just for his country, but for where he grew up, Cindy said. Thankfully, his family wasnt hurt, but as for his extended familyNew York is his family. That day everyone came together as one big family.

Rosa described how the city, a once bustling metropolis that never sleeps, came to a screeching halt.

New York is very fast paced -- everyone just passing by each other with not much common courtesy, he said. But that day, everyone took a pause. People realized we need to bond together to overcome this horrific event. That will always be burned in my mind -- how close New Yorkers became; how everyone understood to recover we need to come together as one and never allow this to happen again, to anyone.

Thousands were affected by the disaster that day as America stood still. The day everyone came together as one and spoke a single phrase; Never Forget. Its a saying which rings in the hearts of people across the globe, calling to remember these pages of history, and to tell its tale.

Its important we dont forget, Cindy said. We tell these stories to ensure our children know that we were there, and how it impacted our lives. Its a significant part of U.S. history and our children should know that when daddy isnt home, hes out there defending us and making sure no one has to suffer like this ever again.
PIERRE | Trustees for the State Historical Society approved a smaller budget for Deadwood historic preservation Friday.

The 2018 budget is $6,901,440. The 2017 operating budget of $6,950,000 was about $50,000 smaller than the 2016 amount and about $122,000 less than for 2015.

Gaming is flat and has been dropping, Kevin Kuchenbecker, the citys historic preservation officer, told trustees.

State law provides budget authority to the board. The condition is tied to Deadwoods status as South Dakotas only community outside a Native American reservation where casino-style gambling such as poker, slot machines and dice are legal.

When South Dakota voters approved Deadwood gambling in 1988, the city joined Nevada and Atlantic City, N.J., as the only U.S. spots where people could legally bet on a hand of cards or pull a slot handle.

But the National Indian Gaming Act passed by Congress just months earlier also opened the door to Native American casinos that have proliferated in many states in the three decades since.

The competition gradually caught up with Deadwood. Movie star Kevin Costner recently closed his Midnight Star complex downtown.

Kuchenbecker explained to trustees various internal budget adjustments. For example, trolley funding will be reduced to $75,000 from $93,000. Another cuts the grant program for communities outside Deadwood to $150,000 from $250,000.

Demand for outside-Deadwood grants has been somewhat of a roller coaster, according to Kuchenbecker.

He recalled one round when there werent enough applicants to give away $125,000. Another puts on hold a $380,000 retaining-wall project along Raymond Street.

Kuchenbecker said bonds might be issued for major work on retaining walls in the coming years, after current bonds are paid off.

Robert Kolbe, a trustee from Sioux Falls, asked whether Deadwood leaders are looking at what he described as the long term.

You can now game on the internet. You dont have to leave the comfort of your refrigerator and your davenport, Kolbe said.

When the voice vote came, Kolbe didnt say aye. I said present. That means Im not voting against it, he said.
Lawsuit of Raoul Wallenbergs niece against Russias FSB dismissed

MOSCOW, September 18 (RAPSI) - Moscows Meshchansky District Court on Monday dismissed a lawsuit lodged by Marie Dupuy, niece of Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who went missing in the late 1940s, against Russias Federal Security Service (FSB), the court's press service told RAPSI.

In the claim Marie Dupuy sought to obtain information about the fate of her uncle.

Wallenberg, who saved thousands of Jews from the Nazis during World War II, went missing in 1947 after being arrested by the Soviet counterespionage service. Since then, Russian authorities have been repeatedly declining to provide Wallenbergs relatives with documents, which could clarify his fate, Ivan Pavlov, lawyer representing the claimant, told RAPSI earlier.

The decision to sue FSB was taken after the family received no reply to their request they sent to the agency this March, asking for access to original uncensored documents.

Wallenberg, in 1944 taking a post with the Swedish Embassy in Budapest, used his status to provide passports for Jews trying to flee the Nazis. When the capital of Hungary was liberated by the Red Army, Wallenberg was allegedly arrested by a Soviet security service and, as it is believed basing on available evidence, died in 1947 when detained in Moscow.








Russian media watchdog deletes 40,000 materials propagating ISIS

MOSCOW, September 18 (RAPSI)  Russian media and communications watchdog has deleted over 65,000 prohibited materials since 2014, with over 40,000 of those being related to the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organization, banned in Russia, RIA Novosti reported on Monday citing Roskomnadzor high-ranking official Yevgeny Zaytsev.

Removal of content was completed in close cooperation with the Prosecutor Generals Office. As soon as the Office makes a decree on the matter, Roskomnadzor must immediately block the web resource, Zaytsev said.

Roskomnadzor has received 10,000 decrees declaring certain materials extremist, including texts, video files, books and leaflets since November 2012, according to the official. About 30,000 websites were included into a registry of prohibited web resources.

The blacklist of websites was launched in Russia on November 1, 2012. The respective law envisages that websites may be blacklisted by a number of governmental agencies. Starting February 1, 2014, the register also includes websites promoting extremism and mass riots.
Budget cuts of up to $226 million could hit the state in coming months, needed to make up for a severe drop in the amount of money Montana expected to take in through taxes.

Over the last two weeks as agencies around the state have scrambled to put together proposals to reduce their budgets by up to 10 percent and Montanans heard that programs considered essential could be eliminated, many wondered how the state got into this situation.

Its not that the states economy is tanking; in fact there are more Montanans working than ever before.

Were not talking about a decline in revenue, were not talking about the economy shrinking and contracting and revenues falling off. What were talking about is how fast the growth rate is, Dan Villa, the governors budget director, said last week.

What happened is an error in predicting how much money the state would bring in through taxes, mainly by overestimating income tax receipts.

The amount the state expects to take in is set by whats called House Joint Resolution 2. Lawmakers receive several revenue estimates through the four-month legislative session, which runs January to April, and vote on the estimate they think is best.

For the fiscal year that ended in June, the estimate was 3.4 percent higher than actual collections. Going forward, some predictions show the state could bring in $131.3 million less than expected in fiscal year 2018 and $144.8 million less than expected in fiscal year 2018, according to estimates from the governor's office.

If budget cuts arent made, the state will be $35 million in the hole by the end of this fiscal year, according to estimates from the governor's office. Thats why Gov. Steve Bullock has asked state agencies to propose 10 percent budget cuts that hell spend the coming weeks sifting through.

State law allows Bullock to make cuts of up to 10 percent when his budget director determines actual or projected collections from taxes will be insufficient to maintain enough cash in the bank, also called an ending fund balance. Having $143 million in the bank at the end of fiscal year 2019 is what the state is aiming for.

At the end of the last fiscal year, which ended in June, the ending fund balance was $47.5 million. Thats not enough to support state operations, putting Montana in a position where it will likely have to borrow money between agencies or the Board of Investments, which isn't common, to pay bills.

Bullock campaigned on a strong ending fund balance and said he's worked to shrink government. While there are about 175 fewer full-time equivalent employees across state government than in 2012, spending has increased across most state agencies.

In the Department of Public Health and Human Services, for example, the amount of general fund money they get has grown $115 million over the last five years, mostly attributable to growth in the number of people who get services. Other agency budgets have grown because of issues like managing sage grouse, increased funding the Legislature approved for schools and new programs such as drug courts.

Weve hit (the point) where we have to act, Villa said.

Individual income taxes

What the state already knows is that for fiscal year 2017, which ended June 30, general fund revenues came in $75.5 million lower than expected. Of that, $70.3 million is individual income taxes, 5.7 percent lower than estimates the Legislature approved.

When income tax payments are off, thats a big deal to the revenue picture. Income taxes paid by individuals make up 55 percent of the states seven largest general fund revenue streams. The next largest source is property taxes at 12 percent, then corporate taxes at 6 percent. Those sources were also down, property taxes just $800,000 less than expected but corporation taxes off by $6 million, also lower than projected.

The problem isnt so much withholding on wage incomes. That actually was up 4.1 percent, or $37.3 million, over last year. But the other types of tax payments paid by individuals on non-wage income like capital gains are down significantly. Mineral royalties, another type of that income, are down 22.5 percent from last year.

Non-wage payments are down $21.9 million from last year.

At this point were still trying to surmise what happened, said Stephanie Morrison, lead fiscal analyst in the Legislative Fiscal Division that creates the revenue estimates lawmakers can adopt. In looking at the payment data in this way, it gives me a clue maybe theres something going on with non-wage income.

Audit, penalty and interest and amended income also came in 21.2 percent lower than last year, for an $11 million drop.

Morrison cited an article from the Rockefeller Institute on Government that showed states across the nation also struggled to accurately predict revenues this year.

Morrison pointed to the election of Republican Donald Trump as president, who joined a Republican-dominated Congress, as one reason for why payments came in lower than expected. Taxpayers who think a conservative-dominated federal government could pass a tax plan that lowers the rate they pay on non-wage taxes could push back that income until action is taken.

There is some indication taxpayers were, especially taxpayers with non-wage income, were looking to minimize their tax in calendar (year 2016) in hopes of lower federal tax rates in 17 or later years, Morrison said. The idea is maybe taxpayers are hoping for lower tax rates because of the all-Republican administration.

Thats something wage-income earners cant do. You get your paycheck when you get your paycheck and you pay your taxes, Morrison said.

Rep. Becky Beard, R-Elliston, asked Thursday what Morrison called the multi-million dollar question  if these non-wage tax payments were delayed, is it possible theyll flood in in coming years?

Morrison said its certainly possible.

Taxpayers arent going to delay forever, but they may still be waiting to see what kind of action the federal government is going to take. If change does not happen at the federal level, taxpayers may just get tired. They may not be able to hold off forever. We may see a real bump if there is some sort of change at the federal level.

Morrison said her theory cant be proven until she gets the full details about 2016 tax returns in November. Were still waiting for taxpayer data. Well know more in November. Well understand to what extent  taxpayers are trying to delay movable types of income in hopes of lower federal rates.

But Villa disagrees with her assumptions.

This phenomenon started before the election, he said, tracing it back to 2015. We cant say people are waiting for a tax policy change that may or may not be realized.

Villa said instead what's happening is the economy in Montana is fundamentally different than it was over the last two decades. Years ago when he started working for the governors office, timber was one of the largest sectors of state's economy. Now the largest growth sector is health care.

Timber mills paid property taxes, hospitals do not, Villa said. That is a fundamental shift in what our economy looks like.

He also said substantial changes in federal tax policy from 2005 to 2017, such as the PATH Act, had real impacts on state revenues. He also pointed to lower business equipment taxes approved by the Legislature.

What were facing now is something we will have to wrestle with over the long term, he said.

Fire season

Whatever the cause, lower-than-expected tax revenue collection couldnt have hit at a worse time for Montana  a summer when more than a million acres had burned before rain and snow started falling last week.

Most recent estimates put the cost of fighting fires, including funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, at $56.7 million to the state. Amy Carlson, legislative fiscal analyst and director of the Legislative Fiscal Division, estimated total costs could run $70.3 million to $90.3 million for this summer alone.

Already enacted cuts that reduced the state fire fund to $32.3 million leave the state about $25 million to $45 million short of being able to pay the bill for fighting fires, after tapping the governors emergency fund of $13 million. Estimating a normal year for fires next summer and costs of $22.5 million, that leaves the state in a hole of from $47.5 million to $67.5 million over the two-year budget period.

Villa said the state should basically hope for no natural disasters.

We have absolutely no ability to respond to any of those natural disasters, he said.

What happens next?

Carlson presented lawmakers last week with a range of scenarios for what could happen with the revenue, ranging from reality rebounding to match estimates over the next two years to predicting money coming into the state more in line with what governors office originally proposed at the start of the year, an amount lower than what the Legislature adopted as their estimate.

To make up for existing losses, individual income tax growth would have to be 13.1 percent in the next year.

Its not impossible, certainly not, but its probably not something you want to bank on, Carlson said.

Carlson said that even though the revenue estimates created by her division and adopted by the Legislature are off, they shouldnt be tossed aside entirely.

While Im not advocating (House Joint Resolution 2) is the number anybody should use right now, what Im also advocating is you may not want to dismiss it entirely, she said, noting that estimates two years ago were low and actual revenue came in much higher. Im just saying its the world we live in and it does have a lot of variability associated with it.

Villa said that while the state has had growth years of 10 percent before, hes not sure thats possible now.

The conditions that correlate to 10 percent revenue growth are not present right now, he said.

Oil isnt booming like it was a few years ago and employment numbers are already high and dont have much room to improve, so Villa cant see where the growth would come from.

The conditions that correlate to 10 percent revenue growth are not present right now."

Another hypothesis Morrison floated, which gels more with Villas assumptions, is that national economic data were just wrong.

Theyre always revised backward, up to sometimes five years backward, and one of the possibilities outlined in the Rockefeller report was that perhaps the underlying national economy was not as strong as the current estimate of the economic indicators would have suggested.

What Villa and Carlson agree on is the state is not in a good position.

I dont think the gravity of the situation can be dismissed, Villa said.

One million people are waiting on us. There are 250,000 people right now who need answers on Medicaid services, there are 147,000 kids wanting to know whats going to happen to their schools, theres 40,000 in our university systems who need to know whats going to happen to their tuition. And we need to figure it out, and we need to figure it out sooner rather than later."
Gopal Bahadur Khadka

Kathmandu, Nepal: Responding to the widespread criticism, the government has dismissed the Managing Director (MD) of the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) Gopal Khadka for his alleged involvement in corruption. Khadka is alleged for involving in the financial irregularities while purchasing land plots in different districts to set up storage facilities across the country.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers held on Monday sacked Khadka from the NOCs top post. According to the Minister for Supplies Shiva Kumar Mandal, he was sacked as he was embroiled in many controversies in the last two years including the recent financial irregularities while purchasing lands.

As many evidences proved Khadkas involvement in financial irregularities while acquiring plots of land meant for the development of petroleum storage infrastructure, the Ministry of Supplies had tabled a proposal at the Cabinet meeting to sack NOC Chief Khadka from the post. The government was highly criticized for the reluctance to take action against Khadka.

Not only the media exposed the financial irregularities but also the different parliamentary committees had already directed the Ministry to take action against Khadka and others officials with the conclusion that financial irregularities was occurred while acquisition of land.

Following the exposal of the irregularities, Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Commerce, Industry and Consumer Welfare Relations Committee (CICWRC) and the Good Governance and Monitoring Committee (GGMC) had investigated the irregularities even mobilizing the investigation team in the field.

It is alleged that billions of rupees was pocketed illegally from the state coffer while purchasing plots of land at a much higher cost than the prevalent market rates. The NOC had purchased the lands in Jhapa, Sarlahi, Chitwan and Rupandehi districts. Likewise, the NOC had also initiated process to purchase the land in other districts as well.

The parliamentary committees had a conclusion that the NOC had paid up to four times more for plots in these areas as compared to the government valuation of the said plots.
Bloomberg SYDNEY (Bloomberg)  India is poised to emerge as an economic superpower, driven in part by its young population, while China and the Asian Tigers age rapidly, according to Deloitte LLP.

The number of people aged 65 and over in Asia will climb from 365 million today to more than half a billion in 2027, accounting for 60 percent of that age group globally by 2030, Deloitte said in a report Monday. In contrast, India will drive the third great wave of Asias growth  following Japan and China  with a potential workforce set to climb from 885 million to 1.08 billion people in the next 20 years and hold above that for half a century.

India will account for more than half of the increase in Asias workforce in the coming decade, but this isnt just a story of more workers: these new workers will be much better trained and educated than the existing Indian workforce, said Anis Chakravarty, economist at Deloitte India. There will be rising economic potential coming alongside that, thanks to an increased share of women in the workforce, as well as an increased ability and interest in working for longer. The consequences for businesses are huge.

While the looming Indian summer will last decades, it isnt the only Asian economy set to surge. Indonesia and the Philippines also have relatively young populations, suggesting theyll experience similar growth, says Deloitte. But the rise of India isnt set in stone: if the right frameworks are not in place to sustain and promote growth, the burgeoning population could be faced with unemployment and become ripe for social unrest.

Deloitte names the countries that face the biggest challenges from the impact of aging on growth as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand and New Zealand. For Australia, the report says the impact will likely outstrip that of Japan, which has already been through decades of the challenges of getting older. But there are some advantages Down Under.
When a BART passenger was handed a note demanding her wallet and phone, the quick thinking woman took an original approach to thwarting the theft: She pretended to have a medical emergency, which seemed to scare the robber off the train.

In a tweet since made private, 32-year-old Oakland resident and BART passenger Julie Dragland announced the incident, saying that it happened at around 4:50 p.m. Friday, as her Dublin-bound train passed through San Francisco.

Dragland tells NBC Bay Area that she "boarded a train in Daly City and was heading home to Dublin when a person in dark clothing climbed onto the train in downtown San Francisco and thrust a note at her."

As you can see in the note above, the missive read (sic throughout) There are 2 guns pointed at you now. If you want to live hand back your wallet + phone NOW + do not turn around and be descreet. Do not turn around until after you have left civic center + you will live.

The Chron reports that initially, "Dragland  who does public relations work for a San Francisco video game company  said she mouthed 'help me' to a man standing nearby."

When s/he got off the train, she decided to pretend she wasn't able to give in to the note's demands.

So I if I fake a seizure or fake like Im passing out, Im not even not complying, Dragland tells CBS 5. Im scared and reacting so, I started slumped over to the left and started shaking and people started to notice and theyre like, Are you okay? Are you okay?'

I probably looked very ridiculous, she tells the Chron. I slumped sideways and started shaking and crying. I closed my eyes and increased the vigor so people would pay attention.

When two people came to her aid, Dragland showed them the note. She says she believes that that's when the would-be robber slipped away, getting off BART at Civic Center station.

Surprisingly, she says that the believed the suspect to be "an older white woman pulling a suitcase," CBS 5 reports.

Dragland reported the crime when she arrived in Oakland, CBS 5 reports, at which time BART police searched Civic Center station for anyone matching the suspect description, but didn't find a soul. According to KRON 4, Dragland "is not sure who handed her the note and did not see anyone with a weapon."

According to a tweet from BART spokesperson Alicia Trost, Trost "called the Watch Commander to make sure they were aware" of the incident.

"Someone called it in and we have train # so we can pull the footage to ID suspect," Trost tweeted.

UPDATE: BART Police have released these photos of the suspect, who is indeed female.

Since she wasn't actually robbed, Dragland says she won't press charges if the suspect is found, but NBC that she is "shaken up and will no longer sit on a BART seat with its back to other chairs behind it." However, she also "won't let the frightening encounter stop her from riding BART trains altogether."

Speaking with CBS 5, Deagland says the reason she resisted is because she had an international flight to catch later Sunday, which the loss of her phone and wallet would make extremely difficult.

I was terrified and then I started to be like, is somebody really going to shoot someone for a phone and a wallet?" she told CBS.

"I dont know. I started to question it a little bit, but I was still really scared."

Related: Roughed-Up Riders Suing BART For Inadequate Security
The resistance to Trump's rescinding of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (or DACA) program continues today as San Diego-based attorney Dulce Garcia files a lawsuit in San Francisco federal court against the administration. Garcia's case is especially notable, as it's the first case regarding DACA's end filed by a DACA recipient, otherwise known as a "Dreamer."

Garcia is one of 800,000 Dreamers, as she explained to Reuters. She first came to the country at the age of four with her parents, who worked in Southern California as a hotel housekeeper and a welder. In 2013, a year after DACA was announced by then-President Obama, Garcia jumped at the chance to apply for a Social Security Number, and she now works full time as an attorney, though only partly on immigration cases.

This suit, which names six total Dreamers as plaintiffs including Garcia, joins other lawsuits that have already been filed against the administration's decision. Last Monday, the state of California also filed suit in San Francisco, calling the decision unconstitutional. That particular lawsuit includes several state attorneys general as plaintiffs, with Attorney General Xavier Becerra leading the charge. As well, the University of California school system filed a suit, saying that the decision violates due process as described in the Fifth Amendment. Fifteen other states, including New York and Washington, have also responded in kind, filing a separate lawsuit in a federal court in Brooklyn, New York.

Meanwhile, stories and accounts of Dreamers' experiences continue to spread, with the hopes of combating the sometimes dehumanizing rhetoric that surrounds their existence, particularly in conservative media circles. NPR recently shared an interview with Dan Lee, who came to the U.S. from South Korea when he was a child. His parents had apparently tried to become citizens, but fell victim to an immigration scam. As of right now, Lee is in his fourth year of studying political science at American University in Washington, D.C., an opportunity which he credits to his being able to participate in the DACA program.

There are loads of stories about people like Lee, and so many of them (if not all of them) deserve to be heard. But whether they'll be heard by the people who will soon decide on the hopes and dreams of these 800,000 Dreamers remains yet to be seen. One thing's for certain though: folks will be fighting tooth and nail to defend DACA.

Related: Photos: Thousands Protest DACA Repeal Outside SF Federal Building


During the first eight months this year, the country imported 65,485 CBU (completely built up) automobiles with the total value of $1.39 billion, down 5 percent in volume and 12.8 percent in value over the same period last year.



The year on year decrease partly showed the gloomy auto market for the last months. Despite implementing a slew of discount programs, automakers have seen dropping sales because of new tax policies.

Specifically, import tariff rates of less than nine seater vehicles from ASEAN to Vietnam will reduce from 30 percent to 0 percent by 2018. Therefore, consumers have been waiting for further price drop.

By VAN DIEU  Translated by Hai Mien
The Deputy PM visited the headquarters of Rent-A-Port, an engineering and investment company specialising in the development of marine infrastructure and industrial zones, as part of his visit to Belgium from September 15-19.



He was briefed on the companys successful investment models which combine industrial zones with port complexes, transportation services and energy production, with the most noteworthy being the Antwerp port area.

In Vietnam, Rent-A-Port has worked with the Peoples Committee of the northern port city of Hai Phong to develop Dinh Vu Industrial Zone/Deep-C on the Dinh Vu peninsula, regarded as one of the most successful industrial park projects in northern Vietnam.

The company is expected to build more industrial parks in Hai Phong and the northern port province of Quang Ninh, focusing on high-tech and renewable energy projects.

Deputy PM Hue made fact-finding trips to Rent-A-Port projects, including Antwerp, the second largest port in Europe in terms of cargo volume and one of the main gateways of Europe to sea, along with C-Power, the first far-shore wind farm in Belgium.

Rent-A-Port leaders expressed their hope to replicate its successful models in Hai Phong and Quang Ninh, and that the Vietnamese Government will continue to support the companys projects, especially those on sea dyke construction and wind and solar power projects in Hai Phong.

In response, Deputy PM said the Vietnamese Government welcomes and creates the best possible conditions for foreign firms to expand their business in Vietnam.

After touring Antwerp, the official visited Ostend city, where he attended a banquet hosted by the citys Mayor Johan Vande Lanotte, also former Deputy PM of Belgium.

Lanottee and Rent-A-Port leaders affirmed their support for the establishment of a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the EU.

Later the same day, Deputy PM visited the Vietnamese Embassy in Belgium.

Vietnamnews
Phong said 2017 is a special year that marks the 50th founding anniversary of ASEAN and 40 years since AIPAs inception. The AIPA-38 takes place amid complex global and regional developments such as territorial disputes, terrorism, and increasing non-traditional security issues like environment, epidemics, climate change, and growing trade protectionism, which have directly or indirectly impacted security, unanimity and economic growth in Southeast Asia, she said.In that context, the AIPA, along with ASEAN, should continually uphold the spirit of solidarity and unanimity and raise the sense of responsibility to effectively respond to challenges that threaten peace, security and stability in the region while effectively and comprehensively contributing to the building of the ASEAN Community, Phong noted.In the new development stage of both ASEAN and AIPA, the bilateral cooperation need to be reformed in a more connected, practical and effective manner, focusing on promoting the ASEAN Communitys development on all three pillars so that the Community could become a momentum for maintaining peace, stability and sustainable growth in the region.The cooperation should also concentrate on enhancing ASEANs solidarity and improving the awareness of the ASEAN Community; and consolidating and bringing into play ASEANs central role in the regional architecture, the official said.She asked the AIPA, together with ASEAN, work harder to raise public awareness of AIPAs importance, activities and capacity of contributing to the ASEAN Community building and of realising regional peoples interests.The AIPA should further boost parliamentary diplomacys role in state diplomatic activities among ASEAN members and between ASEAN and the blocs partners. It should increase the effectiveness of law-making cooperation in order to facilitate ASEAN cooperation in all spheres, from politics-security, economy to culture-society. The assembly needs to provide the ASEAN governments with feasible solutions in order to achieve the blocs set targets.Phong proposed that the AIPA help promote ASEANs central role in the region through upholding the groupings conduct principles and standards and compliance with international law, strengthening the member parliaments connectivity, and reinforcing ties with other parliamentary cooperation mechanisms in the region and the world.The Vietnamese legislative leader called for the improved efficiency and practicality of meetings between AIPA representatives and ASEAN leaders, thus bolstering coordination between parliaments and governments of the ASEAN nations.It is also necessary to reform and improve AIPAs operations, including improving coordination mechanisms between the AIPA Secretariat in Jakarta and AIPA secretariats in the member countries, as well as between the AIPA Secretariat and the ASEAN Secretariat, she added.The AIPA-38 is taking place from September 16-19 with the participation of representatives from the 10 ASEAN member countries and 11 observer nations.The AIPA members are set to discussed a number of critical issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, cooperation in solving food security-related issues, and promotion of health care for female workers.

VNS
SIOUX CITY  Authorities blocked off access to the 4800 block of Bushnell Avenue Sunday evening as they dealt with a gas leak.

According to Assistant Chief Robert Wilson of Sioux City Fire Rescue, a man was digging up tree stumps with a backhoe at a residence in the Morningside area neighborhood when he struck a 1-inch gas line.

Odor from the gas was noticeable to those on the scene; however, Wilson said they performed tests and found that it had not entered any of the homes in the vicinity.

Later, crews from MidAmerican Energy Co. arrived to shut off the gas.
Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily!

Your notification has been saved.

There was a problem saving your notification.

{{description}}

Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
Justin Ries, 49, entered his plea Friday in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

In a plea agreement, Ries admitted that at the time of his June 12 arrest, he possessed 380 grams of meth, 169 grams of marijuana, less than 1 gram of heroin, 29 unused syringes, an air pistol and more than $24,000 in cash.
SIOUX CITY | Democratic governor candidate Cathy Glasson was on familiar turf as she wrapped up an initial swing through the state, choosing a stop in her Siouxland hometown of Spencer for the concluding event Sunday.

Glasson is one of many Democratic candidates in a wide field attempting to separate herself from the pack, ahead of the June 2018 primary vote that will determine the party's nominee. In a Journal interview Monday, Glasson said it was notable to stop at the Clay County Fair in Spencer, a place she lived for 18 years until graduating from high school and heading to the University of Iowa.

"I had a really good time at the Clay County Fair and people said, 'We want you back,'" Glasson said.

Glasson, 58, lives in Coralville and is a nurse who is president of SEIU Local 199 representing thousands of nurses and health care workers across Iowa.

Glasson is touting herself as firmly in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. She has the goal of implementing a single-payer universal health care system, ideally through the national extension of the Medicare program, and raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour.

She said those steps are needed since too many working class people struggle to meet economic needs and to have good health care, since, "in health care now, it is always profits over people."

Glasson said tacking to the political middle hasn't benefited Democrats legislatively.

"Moving to the center and doing half-measures has not gotten Iowans to the place we need to be...I want a bold, progressive agenda that moves faster, not slower. Moving to the center is a losing strategy," she said.

With the initial swing around Iowa completed in Spencer after 100 appearances, Glasson at 5 p.m. Tuesday will make what her campaign is citing as a major announcement via technology to people in eight cities, including Sioux City. Those people will then fan out to knock on doors and trying to get supporters.

The Democratic field of governors includes business executive Fred Hubbell; former Iowa City Mayor Ross Wilburn; former Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Andy McGuire; former Des Moines school board president Jon Neiderbach; John Norris, a former aide to U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin; and state Sen. Nate Boulton of Des Moines.
STORM LAKE, Iowa | A Sioux City woman faces multiple charges after authorities allege she led them on a pursuit through multiple Northwest Iowa counties Sunday evening and tried to swim away from officers after crashing her vehicle into Storm Lake.

According to press releases from the Storm Lake Police Department, shortly after 9 p.m., a vehicle pursuit initiated by the Cherokee County Sheriffs Department neared the city of Storm Lake on County Road C63.

Ellyn Wunder, 26, of Sioux City, is accused of driving the vehicle involved in the chase.

The pursuit entered the Storm Lake city limits on C63 traveling eastbound. Wunders vehicle crossed Highway 110 at a high rate of speed and entered the Emerald Park subdivision with several law enforcement vehicles in pursuit.

The vehicle continued eastbound on North Emerald Drive, where it struck a garage at 101 Emerald Drive. Wunder continued through residential yards and eventually drove off a 15-foot embankment and entered the lake. A Cherokee County Sheriffs Department also drove over the embankment and came to a stop, partially landing in the water.

The passenger in the suspect vehicle, Kyle Sitzman, 29, of Hinton, was apprehended at the scene. Wunder swam away from the vehicle and out into the lake. She was apprehended by deputies, who borrowed a private boat and pulled her from the water.

Both Wunder and Sitzman were transported to the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center by ambulance for medical evaluation.

Wunder was charged with no insurance, failure to maintain control, failure to obey a traffic control device and striking fixtures upon a highway. She was released to the custody of the Cherokee County Sheriffs Department.

The police department determined the chase caused about $12,000 worth of damages to the garage, plus a canoe and dock owned by a Storm Lake man.

Damage to the Cherokee County Deputys vehicle is estimated at $4,000, while damage to Wunders vehicle is estimated at $5,000. Both vehicles were successfully pulled from the lake.
Todays top picks from our online calendar. Find more events at siouxcityjournal.com/calendar.

Lost in the Stacks

Lost in the Stacks is a monthly book talk & presentation held 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at South Sioux City Public Library, 2121 Dakota Ave. The theme for September is graphic novels. Visit southsiouxcity.org/library or call 402-494-7545 for more information.

'An Inconvenient Sequel'

The Living River Group of Sierra Club, USD Sustainability Program and Greening Vermillion are hosting a free showing of "An Inconvenient Sequel - Truth to Power" 7 p.m. at 10 E. Main St., Vermillion, South Dakota. All are welcome to this event. Call 605-658-0163 for more information.

It's All Speculation

Paintings by Mark Stemwedel are on display at Morningside College Eppley Art Gallery, 3625 Garretson Ave., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. There will be a reception for the artist at the gallery from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 21. Visit www.morningside.edu for more information.
A "potentially catastrophic" Hurricane Maria is now a Category 5 storm, packing 160 miles per hour winds -- with even higher gusts -- as it nears Dominica and takes aim at the US territory of Puerto Rico.

"The extremely dangerous core of Maria is expected to pass over Dominica within the next hour or two," the National Hurricane Center said in its 8 p.m. ET advisory. "Maria is likely to affect Puerto Rico as an extremely dangerous major hurricane, and a hurricane warning has been issued for that island."

A US Air Force Reserve C-130 Hurricane Hunter data measured the intense storm, which heightens the chance of life-threatening storm surge and "hitting the Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico."

For the first time in 85 years, Puerto Rico is expected to suffer a direct landfall from such a strong hurricane. Puerto Rico's governor has declared a state of emergency ahead of that landfall, which will likely happen Wednesday.

The hurricane center statement said Maria was centered about 15 miles east-southeast of Dominica and 40 miles north of Martinique. The mammoth storm was moving west-northwest at 9 mph.

President Donald Trump issued an emergency declaration for Puerto Rico for federal assistance to augment the territory's storm-response initiatives.

Bracing for impact in Dominica

Dominica is a small island with a population of nearly 74,000 about halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago, according to the CIA World Factbook. It's nearly 290 square miles (751 square kilometers) and "slightly more than four times the size of Washington DC."

"The Dominican economy has been dependent on agriculture -- primarily bananas -- in years past, but increasingly has been driven by tourism as the government seeks to promote Dominica as an 'ecotourism' destination," the factbook said.

Hours before Maria's expected landfall on Dominica -- and just over week after the island was brushed by Irma -- Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit urged residents to take any belongings that could become dangerous projectiles indoors.

"The next few hours should be placed on cleaning up around the house and on your properties rather than stockpiling weeks of foods and other supplies," Skerrit said in a televised speech.

"This is not a system that will linger very long. Therefore, the goal must not be on stockpiling supplies but on mitigating damage caused by flying objects."

Puerto Rico on alert

Puerto Rico sheltered many of the evacuees who fled Hurricane Irma's wrath in other Caribbean islands. Now those evacuees and native Puerto Ricans are bracing for another powerful hurricane.

The governor ordered evacuations ahead of deteriorating conditions.

"We want to alert the people of Puerto Rico that this is not an event like we've ever seen before," Gov. Ricardo Rossello told reporters.

Puerto Rico housing authorities said there are 450 shelters able to take in 62,714 evacuees, and up to 125,428 in an emergency situation. But there are six fewer shelters available post-Irma, since some schools still have no electricity.

"We expect to feel storm winds, tropical storm winds, since Tuesday up until late on Thursday. That's about two-and-a-half days of tropical storm winds, and on Wednesday we will feel the brunt -- all of the island will feel the brunt of sustained category four or five winds, Rossello said.

"This is an event that will be damaging to the infrastructure, that will be catastrophic, and our main focus -- our only focus right now -- should be to make sure we save lives."

Rossello said that Maria's size means all of Puerto Rico will experience hurricane conditions.

"It is time to seek refuge with a family member, friend, or move to a state shelter because rescuers will not go out and risk their lives once winds reach 50 miles per hour."

If Maria strikes the island as forecast, it will be "more dangerous than Hugo and Georges," he said.

Hurricane and tropical storm warnings

The storm will affect parts of the Leeward Islands and the British and US Virgin Islands for next couple of days, the center said.

Other Leeward Islands are now under hurricane warnings, including Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis and Montserrat. The US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands are under warnings.

Trump issued an emergency declaration for the US Virgin Islands.

There are tropical storm warnings in effect for Antigua and Barbuda, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Lucia.

The government of the Dominican Republic has issued a hurricane watch from Isla Saona to Puerto Plata, and a tropical storm watch west of Puerto Plata to the northern Dominican Republic-Haiti border.

The British Foreign Office said more than 1,300 troops are in the region, on affected islands or nearby locations, ready to help after Maria goes by. One military team has been deployed to the British Virgin Islands.

A British military reconaissance team is on standby to go to Montserrat and assess needs, the office said. The HMS Ocean is set to arrive in the area at week's end with 60 tons of government supplies.

Hurricane Jose

Another hurricane, Jose, is also churning in the Atlantic and has spawned tropical storm warnings for part of the US East Coast.

While forecasters don't anticipate Jose making landfall in the US, it's still expected to cause "dangerous surf and rip currents" along the East Coast in the next few days, the hurricane center said.

CNN's Brandon Miller, Marilia Brocchetto, Judson Jones, Taylor Ward, Deborah Bloom, Leyla Santiago, Michael Holmes, Matt Wotus and Susannah Cullinane contributed to this report.
Indonesia is offering help to Samoa through the Indonesia Technical Cooperation Programme. Director for Technical Cooperation Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, M. Syarif Alatas, told the Samoa Observer that the programme has been in place since the 1970s.

He said Indonesia has been actively involved in providing technical assistance and capacity building programmes in the framework of South-South Cooperation and Samoa can benefit from the assistance offered in this program.

A delegate at the recent Pacific Islands Forum, Alatas told the Samoa Observer that Indonesia is committed to help Samoa and other Pacific Island countries.

Indonesia is committed to contributing and taking an active role in the development cooperation among southern countries, he said.

Indonesias active participation in South-South Cooperation is also one of the concrete steps in fulfilling its commitment to contribute to the world peace and prosperity as stipulated in the Preamble of 1945 Indonesian Constitution.

According to the Director, Indonesias technical cooperation within the framework of South-South Cooperation has become one of the national priorities.

And this technical assistance is made available to Samoa, he said.

During the period of 1999 to 2016, Indonesia has provided at least 501 capacity building programmes involving 6,244 participants from 124 entities consisting of 118 countries, 5 international organizations, and one economic entity.

Indonesia provides technical assistance based on several principles, such as equality, solidarity, demand driven, mutual respect, mutual benefit and opportunity, and no conditionality.

He said they have covered various fields of cooperation by which Indonesias technical assistance were conducted are agriculture, fisheries, disaster risk management, forestry, health, education, climate change, community and women empowerment, SMEs, trade, finance, industry, good governance, public order management, information and communication technology, infrastructure, energy and mineral resources, tourism, art and culture.

The implementation of the technical assistances are usually in the form of training, workshop, dispatch of experts, apprenticeship, and scholarship and again Samoa can be a part of these programs, he said.

Indonesia has several centers of excellence as the implementing agencies of technical assistance, such as Bogor Agricultural University, Multimedia Training Center (MMTC), Electronic Engineering Polytechnic Institute of Surabaya, Singosari National Artificial Insemination Center, and Tsunami and Disaster Mitigation Research Center (TDRMC) in Syiah Kuala University.

According to the Director, Indonesia has been long involved in sharing capacity building programs to countries in Pacific region.

Countries in the Pacific region including Samoa have become one of the priorities of Indonesias technical assistance.

In bilateral and triangular cooperation, Indonesia has conducted various capacity building programmes.

During 1999 to 2016, Indonesia at least has conducted 182 programmes followed by 1457 participants from countries in the Pacific region.

The area of programmes among other are fisheries, agriculture, democracy and good governance, disaster risk management, seaweed processing technique and entrepreneurship.

Every year, Indonesia conduct several capacity building programmes for participants from the region.

The purposes of those capacity building programmes are to encourage the economic development, connectivity and people-to-people contact between Indonesia and countries in Pacific region, said the Director for Technical Cooperation Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He said in the second half of the 2017, the Government of the Republic of Indonesia will organize capacity building programmes in coconut development and ecotourism; and, participants from P.I.F. member countries are invited to come to Indonesia to follow the programmes and the invitation is extended to Samoa.

In 2018, the Government of the Republic of Indonesia has planned to organize capacity buildings programmes for Asia Pacific countries on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and aquaculture.

He said that since 2003, their government has also been annually granting Indonesian Art and Culture Scholarships (BSBI) to foreign students to study Indonesian art and culture and this programme is also available to Samoan students.

B.S.B.I. is a three-month programme consisted of various activities in art and culture studio to learn Indonesian language, cultural arts diversity, local wisdom, and religion through.

The scholarship programme has 238 alumni from 16 countries in the pacific region. Indonesian Government also provides Darmasiswa Scholarship at the University in various cities in Indonesia.

Darmasiswa Scholarship is a non-degree scholarship programme (usually for 1 until 2 years) that offers opportunities to learn Indonesian language, as well as Indonesian arts, music, and crafts; and, it has produced 356 alumni from 5 countries in the Pacific region since 1974.

The main goal of the Darmasiswa programme is to promote and to increase the interest of foreign youths towards Indonesian language and culture as well as to enhance mutual understanding between cultures of each participating country, he said. He further told the Samoa Observer that other scholarships given by the Indonesian government is the Developing Countries Partnership Scholarship (DCPS) officially launched in 2006.

This scholarship is offered to prospective students from developing countries to earn their Master's degree in various universities in Indonesia and this is also available for Samoan students, he said. This scholarship has been given to 55 students from three countries in the Pacific region.

This scholarship is awarded for three years under which the first year will be programmed to learn Indonesian language and preparation for the Graduate Degree.

The objectives of this Scholarship programme are (1) to contribute to the development of human resources in developing countries; (2) to promote a deeper cultural understanding between developing countries; and (3) to strengthen relations and cooperation between developing countries, said the Director.
Labour  September 18, 2017  Aidan Macdonald and Heidi MacFarland

For years now, injured workers and frontline advocates have been sounding the alarm that Ontarios Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) has been getting its financial house in order through austerity and cost-cutting measures. Whether it be from slashing compensation for lost wages, denying healthcare treatment and medication, or refusing to recognize mental health injuries, the cuts have come squarely on the backs of injured workers.

But resilient and strong in the face of injustice, injured workers across the province are rising up. The Ontario Network of Injured Workers Groups (ONIWG)  an umbrella organization of injured worker groups throughout Ontario  is launching a province-wide campaign called Workers Comp is a Right, to call for a system that treats them with dignity and respect, and that provides them with the compensation to which they are legitimately entitled.

This province-wide campaign has three concrete demands:

No cuts based on phantom jobs. Listen to injured workers treating healthcare professionals. Stop cutting benefits based on pre-existing conditions.

These demands address some of the WSIBs primary methods of cutting benefits and sending injured workers into poverty.

A Broken Workers Compensation System

In implementing its austerity agenda, the WSIB has adopted the mindset of a private insurance provider. Just as insurance companies look to deny and cut claims wherever they can, the WSIB has become rigid, aggressive, and adversarial in trying to find ways to deny or terminate injured workers claims.

From 2009 to 2015, the WSIB cut total benefits to injured workers by nearly $1.16-billion, a 33 per cent reduction over the six-year period.

For injured workers, the WSIBs austerity agenda means thousands of people every year are forced into poverty. A comprehensive study published in 2015 found that 46% of injured workers with a permanent disability from their work injury were at or near the poverty line, with 9% living in deep poverty. 38% of them had been unable to return to employment since they were injured, and yet the WSIB cut their benefits.

In addition to elevated poverty levels, a disproportionately high rate of injured workers also suffer from an array of mental health struggles following their injuries. A 2012 study found that nearly 50% of injured workers experienced symptoms of depression, while 37% had symptoms of anxiety. In many cases, dealing with the WSIB itself causes these mental health issues to develop. Many ONIWG members report that they are unable to even open mail or answer phone calls from the WSIB because of the intense anxiety and panic-like symptoms that are provoked by any interactions with the system.

Downloading Costs Onto Public Systems

Another important consequence of the WSIBs cuts is that the costs of work injuries are being offloaded onto public systems. A common misconception is that the workers compensation is funded by taxpayers. In fact, this is not true; the system is funded entirely by employer premiums and the WSIBs own investments.

Every year, however, thousands of injured workers are forced onto publicly funded systems like Ontario Works (OW), the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), and CPP-Disability, when they are cut off of WSIB benefits. Similarly, when the WSIB refuses to pay for healthcare treatment for injured workers, those costs are shifted onto OHIP.

The reality is that work injuries are becoming a public burden precisely because the WSIB is trying to find ways to skirt its responsibilities.

Shamefully, those with the most severe and complex injuries, including mental health injuries, are the ones who bear the brunt of the WSIBs cost-cutting measures. The reason is simple: these injuries are the most expensive to deal with. Instead of being seen as human beings with a legal right to compensation and care workers who need the most support are seen as costs and liabilities, and are denied help.

Campaign Demands

With the system having strayed so far from its mandate to support injured workers, ONIWG is launching its province-wide campaign to call for justice through three demands.

The first demand  no cuts based on phantom jobs  challenges the WSIBs practice of deeming. In essence, deeming (also called determining) is when the WSIB pretends an injured worker has a job that they do not in fact have in reality. It then pretends that the worker is earning a salary from the non-existent job, and uses the invented salary as a justification to cut their benefits. Injured workers are frequently deemed to have phantom jobs even when they are medically unable to work, or unable to actually obtain employment. If a worker is unemployed, the WSIB will still pretend they are working and earning money, and cut their benefits accordingly.

The second demand  listen to injured workers treating healthcare professionals  relates to the systemic problem of the WSIB ignoring medical evidence from injured workers treating doctors and health providers. Injured workers are frequently forced back to work before their healthcare professionals say it is safe to do so, and denied treatment or medication prescribed by their doctors. This puts workers at risk of re-injury, prolongs their recovery, and is another means of cutting benefits.

The third demand  stop cutting benefits based on pre-existing conditions  calls for an end to the WSIBs practice of blaming ongoing disabilities on conditions that it claims existed before the work injury. All too often, the pre-existing conditions that the WSIB points to never actually affected the person at all until they were injured at work. In many cases, they were never diagnosed by a doctor before the work injury, and never caused the person any symptoms  and yet the WSIB calls them the real source of the injury and terminates the workers benefits.

Despite the grim context of the workers compensation system in Ontario, ONIWG will not allow injured workers to be discouraged or ignored. People who are injured or made ill on the job have the right to dignity and respect, and to compensation benefits for their work injuries. With this campaign, injured workers from all corners of the province are building their collective power and demanding these rights, in full.

For more information about how to support the Workers Comp is a Right campaign visit their website.

This article first published by RankandFile.ca.
The gravity of the existential threat we face from Islamic Jihad is truly of epic proportions. It is essentially a battle pitting free-civilized man against a totalitarian barbarian. What is at stake is the struggle for our very soul - namely who we are and what we represent. The lives that were sacrificed for individual rights and freedoms that we've come to cherish are being chiseled away from right under our noses by the stealth jihadists. And many of us are in denial and totally clueless.



The left's appeasement and pandering to evil is nothing new. What makes their utopian delusions so infuriating and unpardonable is that it is not only they who will have to pay the consequences, and deservedly, so, they are thwarting and undermining our best efforts at resistance and are thus dragging us down in the process as well.







By Peter Lancz,, the head of the Raoul Wallenberg World Campaign Against Racism.


        

                  .     .     .
Bill Bessette.

Dr. Carmen Phelps.

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) has named Bill Bessette of Mechanicsville as the college's new executive director of Public Safety and Preparedness.In this position, Bessette is responsible for the overall protection of life and property at all four CSM campuses. The job requires strategic planning, project management, developing and coordinating the college's emergency preparedness plan and establishing and nurturing contacts within and outside the college to prevent and solve problems. Bessette will also be asked to create programs in support of safety and emergency preparedness."My primary goal is to foster an environment that ensures public safety, but also an individual's sense of well-being," Bessette said. "It is vital that all members of our campus community feel represented and heard and, in turn, feel safe. As a department, we will be approachable and responsive to all members of our community."CSM President Dr. Maureen Murphy welcomed Bessette to his new position at the college. "The safety of our students, staff and visitors is a priority," Murphy said. "CSM is committed to being prepared to deal effectively with emergency situations. This commitment requires a sizable investment in planning, communication and resources, and we are pleased to have someone of Bill Bessette's caliber leading us in this critical responsibility."Bessette comes to CSM after serving as the Director of Safety and Security at Hopkinsville Community College in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. His professional background also includes experience as a police sergeant in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He has worked in uniform patrol, as a robbery investigator and as a member of a DUI task force. He is also a certified gang investigator and an active shooter instructor.Bessette said the environment of the CSM campuses was what attracted him to his new position. "Everyone was so upbeat and committed to the mission of the college that it made the decision an easy one," he said.Public safety issues are increasingly critical and pervasive and Bessette encourages public engagement in these concerns. "Students, staff and community members can help by simply becoming involved. Campus safety is a group effort so community participation is critical to our success," Bessette said. "Remember the adage 'If you see something, say something.'"Bessette earned a bachelor of arts in psychology from Ashford University in Clinton, Iowa, and a master of public administration from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont.For information about CSM's Public Safety Department as well as crime prevention tips, visit ready.csmd.edu/PublicSafety/ The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) welcomes Dr. Carmen Phelps as its new executive director of Institutional Equity and Diversity.Phelps takes on the position at a potentially fruitful time, she said. Diversity issues are taking center stage in the national discourse, a few examples being the white supremacists' conflict in Charlottesville, Virginia, questions about the future of Title IX, the decision about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and its effect on children of undocumented immigrants and the issue of transgender people serving in the military."You have this natural climate that substantiates the need for more conversation," Phelps said, describing it as a "potentially transitional moment" in history."I see this office as playing an integral role in how this institution imagines itself in that transition," she said.Describing her position as an "ambassador for diversity, inclusion, equity and access for the benefit of the college and surrounding community," Phelps said "I am looking forward to working with all students, faculty, staff and community stakeholders to ensure that our commitment to these ideals resonate through our collective work."Phelps will be leading CSM's Institutional Equity and Diversity Office after having served in similar positions at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona; Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio; and Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia. Her work experience also includes time as a writing instructor at American University and as an instructor of African American literature at George Washington University, both in Washington, D.C."Dr. Carmen Phelps brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to CSM's diversity office at a critical time," said CSM President Dr. Maureen Murphy. "CSM seeks to be an institution where diverse thoughts, values and people are heard and respected. Dr. Phelps will be working to ensure that CSM is a safe place to explore ideas and challenge assumptions, while not tolerating words or actions that diminish others. It is through embracing diversity and working together with respect and integrity that we can fulfill our mission and enhance the quality of life in Southern Maryland."Phelps' duties at CSM include overseeing the Diversity Institute, which is focused on community partnerships, and programs like the Men of Excellence, which provides support for African American male-identified students on campus. Phelps also oversee the Charles County Mediation Center located at CSM's La Plata Campus and serves as the Title IX coordinator for CSM, dealing with gender-related discrimination issues. In addition, Phelps will work on strategic planning related to diversity issues for the college as well as scheduling programming, events and dialogues designed to create and maintain a supportive environment at the college.CSM's Institutional Equity and Diversity Office sponsors various events supporting the college's commitment to diversity, including programs, workshops, dialogues, trainings meant to encourage cultural competency and awareness as well as advocacy and community-building."I've always been interested in service and advocacy-oriented work, so I suppose my interests in diversity has been inspired by that," Phelps said. "In addition, I have always been a listener as well as a community and relationship builder, which also informs this kind of work. Ultimately, I've always wanted to work in an area where I could have the potential to improve the quality of life of those whom I serve and support, and this work gives me the opportunity to fulfill that desire."Phelps said she hopes her office's impact will extend from the college to the surrounding community. To that end, she is planning a series of conversations with community members in November to learn more about Southern Maryland and the region's issues."It's my intention to be as accessible and ubiquitous as possible," she said. "You have to engage."However, Phelps notes that everyone is not at the same place on diversity issues and some people feel threatened by these discussions. She believes that her job will be to "meet people where they are," she said. "We need to honor that and find the intersecting points of interest to help all of us do better in some way.""We're all connected. We're all in this together," Phelps said.For information on CSM's Institutional Equity and Diversity Office, visit www.csmd.edu/about/institutional-equity-and-diversity/ . To contact Phelps, email cphelps@csmd.edu.
The projects once would have been considered futuristica quadcopter that works both in the air and in the water, another that flies and then transforms into a rolling vehicle once it lands, software that translates a massive amount of information collected by a swarm of drones into a coherent report for a human. College students still in the process of working on their bachelor degrees designed these projects and others this summer, all applying Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)-related solutions to real-world challenges.These students, seated around a u-shaped briefing table, each took a turn Aug. 4 presenting their project created during their just-completed, two-month summer internship at the University of Maryland (UMD) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Site in California, Md."It's been a really good experience," said UAS Test Site Director Matt Scassero, commending the quality of the group's work and projects.The 10 students included two from the College of Southern Maryland (CSM), sophomores Kristina Babinski of La Plata and Edward Gesser III of Mechanicsville, with the rest of the interns coming from the UMD. Babinski and Gesser were the first CSM interns in the three-year history of the intern program and were two of only three interns who hadn't completed the first half of their bachelor's degree."They really held their own. They have both done an excellent job," said CSM Assistant Professor Byron Brezina, who served as a mentor to Babinski and Gesser during the internship ."They all brought their individual challenges and strengths to the table and banded together to take on the research problems and solve them collaboratively," Scassero said. "Once it was time to work and fly their research it was game-on, and they were a great team."Babinski, an electrical engineering major at CSM and the only female student in this year's internship program, was the first to present at the event. She described the different considerations necessary to write the code to create a thermal points search-and-rescue map. Her project is designed to assist search-and-rescue teams identify non-water-related items like a large mammal or a vehicle in the water. Using infrared thermal images collected by drones, Babinski wrote code that transfers that information onto a map. The project, for instance, could assist rescue teams trying to locate a boat in distress."I had zero experience in aviation before coming to this internship," Babinski said during her presentation, which for all the students included a discussion of the challenges faced during their projects and lessons learned. "I flew a drone for the first time."Babinski ended her presentation with a request for more women in the internship program, an idea endorsed by the program administrators. Babinski is president of the CSM Women in STEM club.Gesser, a mechanical engineering major at CSM, took on a project during his internship that was suggested by National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center. "I worked on two separate systems, one for the NASA project that was designed to integrate a hyper spectral sensor package onto a UAV and one for NOAA," he said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Center for Weather and Climate Prediction project involved Gesser mounting a sensor payload to a UAV as well as protecting the payload in case of a crash."The work required that Gesser create this system primarily from measurements from the payload and sensors he was trying to protect, without having the actual payload and sensors present as he worked. Gesser used a 3-D printer to create custom parts. "I was quite pleased it all fit when I was finished," he said.Gesser said the two-month-long internship project "extensively" enhanced his CAD skills. "I enjoyed working on a larger-scale project and to be able to contribute to what they are doing at the test site," he said.While this was the first time CSM students have been invited to participate in the UMD UAS Test Site internship program, it will not be the last. Scassero said the UMD UAS Test Site administrators sit on advisory boards for CSM curriculum and know the quality of CSM's faculty, staff and students, both as a stand-alone institution concentrating on workforce development and as a feeder path to other higher education centers."CSM is the highest yield community college contributing to the Clark School of Engineering, and we are continually impressed with the students' capabilities and the flexibility of CSM to be responsive to workforce needs," Scassero said. "We will always have a place for CSM interns."Both Babinski and Gesser plan to complete their associate degree at CSM and then transfer to UMD to continue their education. This CSM connection with UMD is one of more than 60 transfer opportunities available to CSM students.In addition to Babinski and Gesser, other CSM students are finishing summer internships or starting new ones with organizations in a variety of other locations. One student, for instance, has worked this summer with sea turtles at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City, North Carolina. Another was awarded an internship with the U.S. Navy Naval Air Systems Command ( NAVAIR's) Electro-Optics Branch within the Human Systems Department.In addition, CSM students studying cybersecurity are benefiting from internships funded through the U.S. Department of Labor's Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College & Career Training grant program, which focuses on helping female, minority, under- and unemployed students, along with veterans and their spouses. Two other CSM students are interning in positions that lead to permanency with the Charles County Board of Education. A June 2017 graduate of CSM is with Peerless Tech Solutions in La Plata, and several other CSM interns with Peerless Tech Solutions have found permanent positions there. MilCorp in St. Inigoes included a CSM student in its summer intern program."This is a super opportunity for our cybersecurity students to work directly with employers who are on the cutting edge of cyber technology," said CSM Employer Outreach & Development Specialist Dr. Rochelle Edwards."The 16 employers who have partnered with CSM to form an advisory board have been outstanding and continue to be agreeable in developing more avenues to further enlighten our students in their field of cybersecurity. CSM has proven to be the educational site that keeps on giving and has longstanding ties with the community. One prime example is Brian Seeling, the managing partner of Peerless Tech Solutions, who is also a CSM alum who returned to partner with us to continue strengthening our mission," Edwards added."An internship or co-op agreement is an ideal way for a college student to gain work experience in a real-world environment, build their resume as well as their network of contacts and references and try out their career choice," said CSM Associate Director of Career Services Lisa Warren.Career counselors at each CSM campus serve as a point of contact for regional employers seeking interns. "We are very involved in helping students prepare for and locate internships in their field," Warren said. "We will be hosting a student Internship Fair in November, giving students and employers the opportunity to meet face-to-face for an initial interview. In 2016, the average conversion rate from intern to full-time hire was 51.3 percent according to National Association of Colleges and Employers ( www.naceweb.org/talent-acquisition/internships/intern-offer-conversion-rates-reach-new-highs/ ). Not always, but often, internships can be the gateway to permanent jobs."For more about CSM's Mathematics, Physics and Engineering programs, visit www.csmd.edu/programs-courses/credit/academic-divisions/mth/ . To request information about internship opportunities, contact CSM Career Services at CareerServices@csmd.edu or visit www.csmd.edu/student-services/advising/career-services/ . The CSM Internship Fair scheduled for November will be available only for current CSM students. CSM students or any employers interested in offering internships can contact Career Services for the details at CareerServices@csmd.edu.
Hurricane Irma's visit to South Florida left many people without power across the state. The City of Miami Beach offered some relief to its residents burdened by the temporary loss of electricity and running air conditioning by releasing a list of hotels with special rates and discounts in the wake of the storm.

Among the more than dozen hotels taking part in the Residents Be Our Guest" hurricane-relief discount program is Hotel Gaythering, 1409 Lincoln Road. The LGBT and "straight-friendly" hotel offered some of the lowest rates in Miami Beach.

"Crate" shared rooms, similar to a hostel, were on sale for $29 a night through Thursday and $39 nightly from Friday through Sunday, down from $49 and $59 a night, respectively, a $20 savings. The 64-square-feet "crates" accommodate two guests (men only) with a full-size bed and a shared bathroom with two shower stalls, one toilet and one urinal.

Regular rooms with king-size beds, ranging from $85 to $99 a night Monday through Thursday and $145 to $160 a night Friday through Sunday, went for as low as $49 and $79 a night, respectively, a savings of $40 to $60.

The special rates ran through checkout time, 11 a.m., Monday and were for Miami Beach residents with photo identification. But non-Beach residents were welcomed to take advantage of the offers, too.

Angel Rodriguez, who lives near the Miami Design District with roommates and his elderly father, was so fed up with the loss of electricity and A/C since Hurricane Irma made landfall Sunday, he decided to rent a hotel room for the weekend. With no guarantees when power would be restored at his home, he rented a "crate" for his father and himself after seeing a post on Facebook a friend in the LGBT community shared about Gaythering's specials.

"Their affordable rates sealed the deal," Rodriguez said. "My place STILL had no power as of Friday evening and my father and I just couldn't stand the heat and another night with no A/C. I had the first good night's sleep I've had in a week where I didn't wake up drenched in my own sweat. What a relief."

Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine applauded hotels like Hotel Gaythering, Loews Miami Beach, Dream South Beach, the Nautilus, and the National Hotel for taking part in the city's special discount program.

Families are suffering, and we are calling upon [our hotels], as our great partners, to help us serve our residents in this time of need," Levine said in a statement. "We know that many of [our residents] are still without power, making the recovery process that much more challenging. In order to offer direct and immediate support to Miami Beach residents, our local hotels have generously stepped forward to offer a special recovery rate of $99 or below for Miami Beach residents."

Hotel Gaythering is owned by Alex Guerra and Stephan Ginez. The co-owners bought the old three-story Miami Beach apartment building in 2010 and began renovations in 2012. The hotel was a hit with guests from the beginning, particularly with visitors and residents tired of the swanky and contemporary scene South Beach had become.

We didnt want anything that looked very Miami. We chose the location because it put people into a neighborhood so they feel like they are part of a neighborhood, Guerra told the Boston Globe in April 2014. Its close enough but far enough from everything.

Known for its mascot, a rabbit, the hotel's bar hosts Hoppy hour from 5-8 p.m. every evening. The venue offers "gayly" specials and weekly events, including Karaoke Mondays, hosted by local drag legend Tiffany Fantasia, and "Bears and Hares" Fridays.

Hotel Gaythering has also served as host to nonprofits like SMASH (Struggle for Miami's Affordable and Sustainable Housing), which is part of the "Smash the Slumlords" campaign that helps fight slumlords and gentrification in Little Havana and inner cities like Liberty City and Overtown. Former Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Gongora also recently hosted his kickoff campaign for his reelection bid at the Gaythering.

Joseph Armstrong has been offering donation based yoga at the Gaythering for several years now. He says he's still inspired every time he walks through the doors of the hotel.

"What a privilege to be associated with this amazing place in South Beach," Armstrong wrote on Facebook. "More than just a really nice hotel and bar, they work hard to give back to the community. The owners take a personal interest in being of service to locals and visitors alike. It's really unparalleled. I just can't say enough good things about Hotel Gaythering."

Added Laurence Bansil, also on Facebook: "We travel all over the world but this place is very special. It's defo sexy and cosmopolitan with guests from every country. Can't wait to come back."

After issuing a city-wide curfew in Miami Beach, which was finally lifted Friday, Mayor Levine says he is thankful the hotels that participated in the hurricane relief discount program stepped up the way they did.

"So many [hotels] stepped forward with generous hospitality, open arms, and meaningful collaboration," Levine wrote in a letter. "[We're thankful] the beach is back [for business]!"
(WB) Joining the LGBT community in mourning the loss of Edith Windsor, Hillary Clinton made a surprise appearance during her memorial service Friday to honor the LGBT pioneer as someone who helped change hearts and minds, including mine.

During the ceremony at Temple Emanu-El in New York City, Clinton spoke at length about Windsors impact on America and her advancement of LGBT equality.

Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, opened her speech with a question: Doesnt it just feel great being here to honor and remember someone who had such a positive, lasting influence on our country and the world?

Recalling Windsors victory in 2013 at the U.S. Supreme Court against the anti-gay Defense of Marriage Act, Clinton said upon Windsors victory much of America cheered with her.

It is fitting that she will be immortalized in history books in that landmark decision synonymous with equal rights and dignity under the law, Clinton said. But she didnt stop there. She continued to support the needs and the rights of the LGBT community. She helped change hearts and minds, including mine. And we are forever grateful to her for that.

Clintons deep respect for Windsor is well-known. In an interview with the Washington Blade during the 2016 presidential campaign, Clinton identified Windsor as an LGBT person she sees as a role model.

 Chris Johnson, Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.
Yes, you can transfer your domain to any registrar or hosting company once you have purchased it. Since domain transfers are a manual process, it can take up to 5 days to transfer the domain.

Domains purchased with payment plans are not eligible to transfer until all payments have been made. Please remember that our 30-day money back guarantee is void once a domain has been transferred.

For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here.
We can't seem to find the page you are looking for.

You may have typed the address incorrectly or you may have used an outdated link.
The Netherlands is home to a truly booming, world-class coffee scene. Amsterdam is the hub, of course, but its a scene that extends far from the Amstel river, with good coffee bars popping up across the country these days at an impressive rate. Weve been fortunate to have a front-row seat to the 21st-century Dutch coffee boom thanks to the work of Karina Hof, a Sprudge staff writer based in Amsterdam. And were equally stoked today to bring you another story from Holland in the form of this, one of our last Build-Outs of Summer installments of 2017. This is Blommers Coffee in Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

As told to Sprudge by Stefan Vrielink.

For those who arent familiar, will you tell us about your company?

Blommers Coffee is a specialty coffee roastery based in Nijmegen, The Netherlands. We focus on roasting the most beautiful coffees we can manage to get our hands on. Perfection, quality, and sustainability are the core values of Blommers.

Can you tell us a bit about the new space?

Over the past years more bars, restaurants, and cafes chose for good roasted quality coffee but mostly for easy tasting coffees. With our own bar, we want to showcase that there are many more options. We want to let the people know that coffee is more than a caffeine beverage. We compare it quite often with wine, which people do not only drink anymore for the alcohol it contains.

Of course there are places who just serve regular wine as they do in coffee but in the better places they have a range of wines varying in taste and varieties and coffee is mostly still just coffee. With the Blommers bar we want to create a new perception of quality coffee by giving our customers that choice in taste and varieties in coffee too, so we can bring these great tasting liquids together in one place.

Whats your approach to coffee?

We are devoted to introduce coffee of exceptional quality with unique flavours. By collaborating close with coffee producers and sourcing companies, we are able to purchase their finest coffees and provide full traceability. We believe it is a good investment to pay premiums to the farmers, with the interest of improving the quality of their coffee production.

Blommers Coffee is roasted with precision to highlight the natural flavours of the coffee bean. After roasting, we analyse every batch with innovative techniques to make sure it meets our standards of moisture, density, colour, and solubility.

Any machines, coffees, special equipment lined up?

In the flagship store of Blommers Coffee we want to give the guests that unique experience by giving them a lot of options in coffee and wines. Espresso-based coffee made on the mighty Synesso MVP Hydra two-group with three Victoria Arduino Mythos One grinders and a Puqpress showcasing unique tastes in coffee and the Marco SP9 Twin setup with a Mahlkonig EK43 to highlight the best filter coffee.

Whats your hopeful target opening date/month?

We opened the 30th of August, 2017.

Are you working with craftspeople, architects, and/or creatives that youd like to mention?

We designed the place ourselves and it is build by Samosa, local craftspeople specialized in wood.

Thank you!

Thank you very much for receiving our letter! Cheers

The Build-Outs Of Summer is an annual series on Sprudge. Live the thrill of the build all summer long in our Build-Outs feature hub.
Emhamed Khadad

Emhamed Khadad, an adviser to the president of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, is the Polisario Fronts coordinator with the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara.

AUG 15, 2017

BIR LEHLU, WESTERN SAHARA  When Western Sahara was annexed by Morocco in 1975, it had been under Spanish control for nearly a century. But Spains grip on the territory had weakened in the dying days of Francisco Francos dictatorship. And rather than allowing a process of decolonization, Spain signed the tripartite Madrid Accords with Morocco and Mauritania, both of which subsequently moved in to annex the territory. Mauritania relinquished its claim in 1979, but Morocco never left.

Western Saharas legal status is crystal clear. In 1963, it was officially recognized as a Non-Self-Governing Territory by the United Nations General Assembly under the UN Charter  a legal status it retains to this day. It is, in short, the last colony in Africa. In 1975, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) affirmed the Saharawi peoples right to self-determination, and found no ties of territorial sovereignty between Morocco and Western Sahara.

Yet Morocco has been allowed to continue illegally occupying Western Sahara for over four decades. And, as is often the case with unwanted occupations, Morocco has asserted its territorial claim through cruel repression, the systematic denial of basic human rights, and attempts to force demographic change  all while plundering Western Saharas natural resources.

The Polisario Front fought a war with Morocco until 1991, when the UN brokered a ceasefire agreement. That deal was supposed to set the stage for a referendum on independence in Western Sahara the following year  a democratic solution. But Morocco has prevented it from ever taking place.

Morocco has also repeatedly obstructed progress toward further negotiations. It has done so in defiance of the UN Security Council, even going so far as to bar the UNs special envoy from travelling to the region to set the stage for talks. At the same time, Moroccos behavior on the ground  including its repression of the Saharawi people and its illegal exploitation of natural resources  has made reaching a political solution increasingly difficult.

In the 42 years of Moroccos occupation of Western Sahara, we, the Saharawi people, have seen eight American presidents, six UN secretary-generals, and a battery of UN special representatives and personal envoys of the secretary-general come and go. Through it all, we have maintained our faith in the international community, and in the UN-led political process that was launched in 1991. It is time for that faith to be rewarded.

In its latest resolution on Western Sahara this year, the UN Security Council unanimously called for the launch of a new political process and acknowledged that the status quo is not acceptable. The Security Council recognizes that this is the best route to achieving decolonization in Western Sahara, protecting human rights, enabling self-determination by the Saharawi people, and setting the stage for long-term stability in the territory.

The UN Secretariat, the office of the secretary-general, and the new special envoy for Western Sahara, former German President Horst Kohler, now must work rapidly on creating a mechanism for face-to-face time-bound talks. The progress report that they deliver to the Security Council in six months should establish what that mechanism will be, as well as a timetable for negotiations; it should not just be a record of exploratory efforts.

In the meantime, we in the Polisario Front will continue to work toward securing the rights of the Saharawi people. Whereas other countries often fold to Moroccan pressure, for fear of harming trade deals or cooperation over security and migration, the law has proved to be a reliable ally for the people of Western Sahara. It has been particularly effective in pushing back against Moroccos continued illegal exploitation of natural resources. This is why we have often turned to the courts when the political process has failed us.

Last December, the European Court of Justice joined the ICJ in stating unequivocally that Morocco has no sovereignty over Western Sahara  a move that could pose a significant challenge to Moroccos relationship with the European Union. That judgment states clearly that any agreement pertaining to Western Saharas natural resources requires the consent of the Saharawi people, who are represented by the Polisario Front, as General Assembly Resolution 34/37 established in 1979.

And the EU is not alone. This past May, the Panamanian authorities detained a Canada-bound ship carrying phosphates that had been illegally mined by a state-owned Moroccan company in occupied Western Sahara. And South African authorities stopped a New Zealand-bound ship containing 54,000 tons of phosphate rock from Western Sahara. The high court in Port Elizabeth sent the case to trial to determine ownership, and the Polisario Front won a major victory  and ownership of the cargo  when Morocco announced that it would not contest the case.

The exploitation of Western Saharas natural resources is not only illegal; it also undermines the prospects for a successful political process. We have no intention of abandoning that process. But, if Morocco continues to engage in such activities, we will ensure that its efforts are as costly and cumbersome as possible, both for private companies and state actors. We will fight for our rights in every venue available to us, from national courts to the court of international public opinion.

Over the last four decades, the UN Security Council has repeatedly proved unwilling or unable to bring Morocco to the negotiating table. We, the people of Western Sahara, hope that this time will be different. But, until we know that it is, we will not stand idly by while a hostile occupier tramples on our rights, and pillages our resources. (SPS)

062/090

https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/western-sahara-morocco-occupation-by-emhamed-khadad-2017-08
Trot Insider has learned that longtime Flamboro Downs race office employee Marianne Nan Hutchison passed away suddenly during the evening of Monday, September 11 at the age of 77.

Anyone that had any association with Flamboros race office surely remembers Nan, as her cheerful demeanour, big smile and infectious attitude always brightened the day.

Hutchison, a resident of Freelton, Ont., is survived by James, her husband of 55 years; and daughter, Julie, the wife of Rusty.

Cremation has taken place.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the friends and family of Nan Hutchison.
Gettys Commemorate Queen's OBE Award and Announce Plans for Live Simulcast Worship Conference

Contact: Gareth Russell, +44-7967-468008, gareth@jerseyroad.co.uk



LONDON, Sept. 18, 2017 /Standard Newswire/ -- Keith & Kristyn Getty were this week honored at the Houses of Parliament in London, England to mark Keith's Officer of the British Empire (OBE) award in June by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The evening, hosted at St Mary's Undercroft set beneath the Palace of Westminster celebrated the Getty's contribution to music and hymn writing through their re-popularizing of hymns. The event marked the first occasion in which an OBE has been given to an individual who is actively involved in the world of contemporary church music.



Beyond just their work as hymn writers, Keith Getty and his wife Kristyn have spent the last decade as ambassadors of the genre. An estimated 40-50 million people are singing Getty hymns in church services each year, include the eponymous In Christ Alone (co-written with Stuart Townend) which has become of the one most-frequently-sung in US churches over the last decade.



Getty says, "Obviously to receive the OBE has been a great honor, but to sing hymns in as intimate and prestigious a venue as the chapel of St. Mary's Undercroft is one of those moments neither Kristyn, nor I will ever forget."



The event also marked the "pre-launch" of Sing!, a book inspired in part by the reformer Martin Luther in this the 500th anniversary of The reformation, made all the more poignant as the Houses of Parliament was the seat of the reformation.



Alongside the OBE celebrations, the Getty's announced that their upcoming Getty Music Worship Conference: Sing! will be global live simulcasted from September 18th - 20th. Audiences from the USA and around the world will have the opportunity to hear celebrated speakers including the Gettys, Alistair Begg, D.A. Carson, David Platt, Joni Eareckson Tada and over 50 other speakers and seminar leaders. Four thousand people will attend this sold-out conference in person from around the world, but live simulcast registration is now open and Getty is keen for the churches across America to join them.



Keith continues, "We would love for churches across the United States to register for the live simulcast and be equipped to release even greater potential through their worship."



The simulcast will include an exclusive concert at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN with special guests Stuart Townend, Ricky Skaggs and more.



To register for the Getty Music Worship Conference: Sing! live simulcast go to www.gettymusicworshipconference.com.
US flies powerful warplanes amid standoff with N Korea

US Air Force F-35B stealth fighter jets drop bombs as they fly over the Korean Peninsula during a joint drills with South Korea on Monday.

AFP, Seoul :

The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers flew over the peninsula to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets few alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on August 31.

Two B-1B bombers flew over the peninsula to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea.

The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be "destroyed" if it refused to end its "reckless" weapons drive.

The subject is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse."

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital-and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South-vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor HR McMaster said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.

Reuters, Beijing/Seoul

The U.S. military staged bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula and Russia and China began naval exercises ahead of a U.N. General Assembly meeting on Tuesday where North Korea's nuclear threat is likely to loom large.
US may stay in Paris climate accord : Tillerson

According to Rex Tillerson, Donald Trump has said he is open to finding the conditions.

Reuters, Washington :

The United States could remain in the Paris climate accord under the right conditions, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday, signaling a shift in tone from the Trump administration, which angered allies with its decision to pull out of the agreement.

President Donald Trump is willing to work with partners in the Paris agreement if the United States could construct a set of terms that are fair and balanced for Americans, Tillerson said on the CBS' "Face The Nation."

Asked if there was a chance the United States could stay in the accord, Tillerson responded, "I think under the right conditions."

"The president said he is open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others on what we all agree is still a challenging issue," Tillerson said.

Trump's national security adviser, H.R. McMaster, struck a similar tone in television interviews on Sunday in which he said Trump had always been willing to consider changes on the climate pact.

"He left the door open to re-entering at some later time if there can be a better deal for the United States," said McMaster said on ABC's "This Week" program. "If there's an agreement that benefits the American people, certainly."

The accord, reached by nearly 200 countries in 2015, was meant to limit global warming to 2 degrees or less by 2100, mainly through pledges to cut carbon dioxide and other emissions from the burning of fossil fuels.

The Republican president fulfilled his campaign promise to pull out of the 2015 accord in June, when he announced tersely "We're getting out." Trump maintained the pact would undermine the U.S. economy and national sovereignty and his decision drew anger and condemnation from world leaders.

It takes four years for a country to withdraw from the Paris agreement, so the United States will be a party to the agreement until two days after Trump's first term ends.

U.S. officials attended a meeting on Saturday of ministers from more than 30 of the nations that signed the climate change agreement. The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday that Trump administration officials said the United States would not pull out of the agreement and had offered to re-engage in the deal.

McMaster dismissed the report as inaccurate. "He's out of the Paris climate accord," he told the "Fox News Sunday" program.

Tillerson said Gary Cohn, Trump's top economic adviser, was overseeing the issue.

"So I think the plan is for director Cohn to consider other ways in which we can work with partners in the Paris Climate Accord. We want to be productive. We want to be helpful," said. Cohn has been part of the "stay-in" accord camp, which included Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Former chief strategist Steve Bannon was one of the main opponents of the accord before leaving the White House last month. Trump has said the Paris accord is soft on leading polluters like China and India, putting U.S. industry at risk.

But the Republican president has shown flexibility on some campaign promises, and U.S. allies have been vocal on the importance of the climate accord.

At a July news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, Trump held open the door to a reversal of his decision, saying "Something could happen with respect to the Paris accords. Let's see what happens."
Listed criminal held with five cohorts

A Correspondent :

Police arrested a listed criminal along with his five associates and recovered huge amount of weapons from Hill View Residential area under Panchalish thana on early Sunday morning.

The arrestees were identified as Ismile Hossain Tempo, 28 and his associates - Sohel, Jahid Hossain, Robiul Islam, Illias Kanchan and M Taohid.

Inspector (Investigation) of Panchalish Police Station Wali Uddin Akber confirmed the news. He said, "'Tempo' was a petty thief but now he is a criminal mastermind in the area. He is a fugitive and accused of 28 cases in several police stations."

Police recovered two guns, four rounds of cartridge, two knives and four Chapaties from the arrestees' procession.




Training on cyber crime investigation held at BUBT

Prof Md. Abu Saleh, Vice Chancellor of Bangladesh University of Business and Technology addressing the inauguration of a daylong training session on Cyber Crime Investigation Techniques for Bangladesh Police\" organized by the Department of Computer Scien

Campus Report :

A daylong training on "Cyber Crime Investigation Techniques for Bangladesh Police" organized by the Department of Computer Science and Technology, Bangladesh University of Business and Technology (BUBT) was held on Saturday at its permanent campus, Mirpur in the capital. Thirty-six Sub-Inspectors from Seven Police Stations under Mirpur Division including an Officer In-charge (OC) attended the training.

Prof Md. Abu Saleh, Vice Chancellor of BUBT, inaugurated the workshop and thanked Dhaka Metropolitan Police and all participants for attending the training. He said, "In Banglaesh, people are being empowered due to increasing Internet activities, at the same time, there is a big concern about Cyber Crimes, Law enforcement agencies should be more knowledgeable about how to investigate Cyber Crimes".

Tanvir Hassan Zoha, Cyber Crime Investigation expert and consultant of Crime Research and Analysis Foundation - CRAF, conducted the Training as the Keynote Speaker. Tanvir Hassan Zoha highlighted, if police officers can investigate Cyber Crime themselves, justice might be in more progress, and people can trust more Police Department'. Zoha also remarked, crimes through Social Networking Websites can be investigated easily by simple tools; police should learn them.

He trained the participants about the various techniques to identify cyber criminals in his valuable presentation during the sessions.

Maksudul Islam, prominent IT expert, also spoke at the training. Prof Mian Lutfar Rahman, Proctor, BUBT, Dr Harun Or-Rashid, Registrar, BUBT were present as special guests. Prof Ameerr Ali, Chairman of CSE Department, BUBT was present at the program. AHM Azmal Hossain, Joint Registrar, BUBT also was present in the sessions. At the end of training session Honorable VC of BUBT Prof. Md. Abu Saleh handed over certificates among the participants.
Call to update IPR laws to protect innovations

Economic Reporter :

Experts at a seminar on Monday called for updating the existing intellectual property rights (IPR) laws to protect local innovations, inventions and creations.

The updating of IPR laws are necessary for ensuring protection of local innovations and using the tool as sustainable growth and expansion of digital economy, they said at the seminar on 'Role of Intellectual Property Rights for the growth of ICT industry in Bangladesh'.

Leveraging ICT for Growth, Employment and Governance (LICT) Project of BCC under ICT Division and Bangladesh Intellectual Property Forum (BIPF) jointly organized the seminar at the auditorium of Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC).

Noted international intellectual property expert Jay A Erstling presented a keynote paper at the seminar where he highlighted the IP protection for computer-related inventions, current legislative framework of the USA, Europe, India and current Situation of the USA, Europe, India.

Erstling in his paper stressed introduction of testing system to determine whether the software is patentable. If the software is developed based on algorithm and mathematical formulae it can't be patentable, he said.

Erstling who is also an Emeritus Professor at Mitchell Hamlin School of Law of Hamline University, USA is in favor of developing IPR framework to protect innovations and allow foreign investment.

Chaired by LICT Project Director Md. Rezaul Karim the seminar was addressed, among others, by Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) President Mustafa Jabbar, Additional Secretary of ICT Division Sushanta Kumar Saha, IPR consultant of A2I Programme Barrister A B M Hamidul Misbah.

LICT Component Team Leader Sami Ahmed conducted the function.

Mustafa Jabbar urged the government to amend and update the existing IP laws keeping provision for applying for software patent.

He said that the copyright act-2005 and patents law-1911 are not adequate to ensure protection of innovations, inventions and creations.
PM doing her best for Rohingyas, BNP undermining it : Inu





Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu, MP, said on Monday that while the world appreciated the role of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in handling the Rohingya influx, the role of Khaleda Zia and BNP was undermining the PM's best efforts.

The minister condemned the heinous role of the Myanmar government in carrying out genocide against the Rohingyas and forcing them to flee their land.

"The influx of the refugees has created a volatile situation in South Asia and South-East Asia," he said.

The minister said this while addressing a crowded press conference at the Press Information Department (PID) auditorium.

The minister also said that Bangladesh wanted a diplomatic solution to this grave humanitarian crisis.

It is an ethnic problem and not a religious one, he pointed out. The minister observed that this was not the first time that Myanmar had engaged in ethnic cleansing of the Rohingyas and cited instances from 1978 onwards when the same was done. Inu also mentioned the different steps Bangladesh had taken to keep the eastern border peaceful and cited the MOU on Security Cooperation Dialogue of August 25, 2017 and the establishment of Border Liaison Office.

He also mentioned the two meetings between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina with Myanmar's State Councilor Aung Sang Su Ki in 2016 for the repatriation of the Rohingya refugees.

"We've left no stone unturned to reach a peaceful solution so that the Rohingyas could go back and live peacefully in their own land", he said.

The minister also elaborately narrated the various steps taken by the Bangladesh government to make the life of the refugees as livable as possible. "Despite our resource constraint we have tried our best to accommodate them as comfortably as possible, "he said. The minister in his written speech described the various steps, including humanitarian, diplomatic and political, taken by the Bangladesh government for the quick and safe return of the Rohingyas to Myanmar.
Rice crisis must be resolved  police action not enough

THE government on day before yesterday directed the law enforcement agencies and Deputy Commissioners (DC) to arrest illegal rice hoarders in the country. The directive comes in the wake of introducing open market sales (OMS) of coarse rice at Tk. 30 per kg, double the previous year's price, across the divisional and district towns in the country. Procuring price at a double rate from the OMS will undeniably put financial pressure on the people of the marginalised low-income segment.







However, the decision to manage the rice situation should have been made earlier since the rice trading sector in some way being dangerously manipulated by a syndicate for some time. It is a marriage of connivance between the men in power and the profit hungry traders. Most importantly, there apparently seems to be none to regulate and monitor the prices of rice. Thus, the price fixing mechanism has gone into the hands of a handful traders, importers and businessmen. They are forcing the public to purchase rice at an artificially hiked price.





The Food Minister and Commerce Minister jointly have blamed the rice mill owners and traders for hiking rice prices to put the government in trouble. They should learn to blame them for their incompetence also. It is easy to ask police arrest, but that is no solution of the problem. The problem has grown over a time.





Profiteering in such dubious manner by capitalising on food shortage situation is highly reprehensible.







The point, however, is temporary policing may be a stopgap measure to reprimand the culprits but it's not a long-term solution to free the rice industry from the clutches of culprit traders.





Given this year's unprecedented back-to-back natural disasters there is not only a shortage in production - thousands of acres of crop were washed-out. The said association or the unholy syndicate took full advantage of the situation by hoarding and then subsequently hiking the price to create a manmade crisis in the country. Moreover, these unscrupulous rice traders are also involved in spreading rumours over the shortage of rice through their syndicate. By now this has already resulted in a nationwide panic. The other point, which is more important than many other counts, is the government failure to maintain required minimum 60 days food staff in stock. Available data suggest that some 4 lakh tonnes of food grains are now in the govt stock. Ideally, it should be 6 lakh tonnes at the minimum. The government, more so the Food Ministry, has failed to assess or foresee the possible crisis which the country is now facing.






Padma Bridge cost likely to shoot up by Tk 1400 cr

UNB, Dhaka :

The estimated cost of the much-hyped Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project is likely to see a rise for the third time by around Tk 1,400 crore to take the overall project cost up to Tk 30,193.38 crore as acquisition of additional land is required for the project.

The last and second revision of the Padma Bridge Project was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) on January 5, 2016 with an estimated cost of Tk 28,793.38 crore to be implemented by December 2018. The Padma Bridge Project was first approved by Ecnec in 2007 with an estimated cost of Tk 10,161.75 crore. Later, the length of the bridge was increased due to change in design for which the estimated cost hiked to Tk 20,507.20 crore which was approved by Ecnec in 2011.

Talking to UNB, a Planning Commission official preferring anonymity said in the original Development Project Proforma (DPP),

Tk 1,299 crore was allocated for the acquisition of some 1,530 hectares of land and the amount has already been spent. "But, now there's a need to acquire some 2,698 hectares of land for which additional Tk 1,400 crore is needed."

Under the present circumstances, the official informed, there is a need to acquire additional 1168 hectares of land in Munshiganj, Madaripur and Shariatpur districts.

Talking to the news agency, another official at the Bridges Division said since the allocated amount against land acquisition as per the DPP has already been spent it is not possible now to acquire additional land which is also hampering the project works.

"Besides, the contractor will have to give a huge compensation if necessary land is not found in the right time. As a result, the project implementation might be delayed," he said.

Under the current scenario, the Bridges Division has already sent a proposal to the Planning Commission for its approval for the cost hike of the project considering the significance of this fast track project and implementing it properly within the stipulated timeframe.
Sumana Munni loses in Asian Indoor Martial Art



Bangladesh athlete Sumana Munni lost to her Jordan counterpart by 10-26 points in the -46 kg women's taekwondo event of 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Art Games now being held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

Munni lost to 10-26 points and made out from the competition, according to a message received here from Bangladesh Olympic Association on Monday afternoon.
World leaders fail to Act: AI

Staff Reporter :

Worldwide situation goes from bad to worse as rich countries fail to do their part in addressing the refugee crisis, leaving poorer countries to pick up the pieces, says Amnesty International on Monday.

As almost 400,000 Rohingya refugees flee ethnic cleansing in Myanmar, world leaders meeting at the UN General Assembly should hang their heads in shame that they have not only failed to make good on their promises to take in more refugees, but have actively dismantled refugee rights in many parts of the world.

More Rohingya refugees have fled to Bangladesh in the space of only three weeks than the total number of refugees who fled by sea to Europe in 2016.

"The horrific situation in Myanmar is exactly why we need more than just a sticking-plaster approach to helping those fleeing war and persecution. After being subjected to horrific violence, including killings and having their villages burned to the ground, these Rohingya refugees are now facing a humanitarian crisis as Bangladesh struggles to support them," said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International's Secretary General.

A year on from the Leaders' Summit on Refugees in New York, where leaders pledged to take in more refugees and help vulnerable people forced to flee their countries, global refugee numbers are increasing year on year as conflicts spiral out of control.

The latest evidence published by Amnesty International points to a mass-scale scorched-earth campaign across northern Rakhine State, where Myanmar security forces and vigilante mobs are burning down entire Rohingya villages and shooting people at random as they try to flee. In legal terms, these are crimes against humanity - systematic attacks and forcible deportation of civilians.

As a consequence, in the space of less than three weeks, almost 400,000 Rohingya refugees have fled Myanmar to Bangladesh. This is more than the total number of refugees who came to Europe by sea in 2016.

"Poor and low-income countries such as Bangladesh, Uganda and Lebanon are left struggling to deal with huge numbers of refugees, when rich countries who host far fewer should be stepping up to provide aid and resettlement places. Leaders of rich countries prefer to pretend the problem does not exist. What will it take for governments to wake up to the reality that their response to the global refugee crisis is totally broken?" said Salil Shetty.

"It is against this backdrop of governments' callous treatment of people fleeing conflict and violence that the world's fastest growing refugee crisis is unfolding before our eyes in Bangladesh."

World leaders gathering in New York for this year's UN General Assembly are expected to discuss the spiraling situation in Myanmar's Rakhine state, from where the long-persecuted Rohingyas have been forced to flee because of an unlawful and totally disproportionate military response to attacks by a Rohingya armed group.

"Instead of attending summits to shake hands with each other and make promises they don't intend to keep, heads of state and government should show some leadership," said Salil Shetty.

"That means delivering a comprehensive plan to protect civilians in conflict, ending crimes against humanity and implementing proper solutions for refugees such as the Rohingya who are in a desperate situation.

"In case they have forgotten, this is what the United Nations is for."
Targeted sanctions arms embargo

HRW says time has come to take tougher steps against Myanmar, UN fact-finding mission must visit Rakhine State

Holding only a tarpaulin a Rohingya woman along with her four children is trying to protect themselves from the rain at Balukhali camp in Teknaf Upazila of Cox\'s Bazar district. This photo was taken on Monday.

Staff Reporter :

The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Myanmar military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims, says a rights group.

"Myanmar security forces are committing ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya and disregarding the condemnation of world leaders," John Sifton, Asia advocacy director of Human Rights Watch (HRW), said on Monday.

"The time has come to impose tougher measures that Burma's generals cannot ignore," said the rights group.

The Security Council should also demand that Myanmar allow humanitarian aid agencies to access people in need, permit entry to a UN fact-finding mission mandated to investigate violations in the country, and ensure the safe and voluntary return of those displaced.

As a first step, the Security Council should hold an open meeting to discuss council responses, Sifton said.

The council should invite UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to brief on the crisis in western Burma's Rakhine State, which the UN high commissioner for human rights has referred to as a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing."

Since August 25, 2017, after attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), Myanmar military forces have carried out mass arson, killing, and looting, destroying hundreds of villages and forcing nearly half a million Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh. World leaders gathering in New York for the opening of the UN General Assembly should make the crisis in Burma a priority and condemn the ongoing atrocities and obstruction of humanitarian aid to those desperately in need.

The Security Council should urgently place a travel ban and asset freeze on those responsible for grave abuses and impose a comprehensive arms embargo against Myanmar, including prohibiting military cooperation and financial transactions with key military-owned enterprises.

The council should also discuss measures to bring those responsible for serious abuses to justice, including before the International Criminal Court.

Concerned governments should not wait for Security Council action to address the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Burma.

They should impose travel bans and asset freezes on security officials implicated in serious abuses; expand existing arms embargoes to include all military sales, assistance, and cooperation; and place a ban on financial transactions with key Burmese military-owned enterprises.

The United States government should place the senior leadership of the Myanmar military, notably commander-in-chief Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, on the US Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, which cuts off access to US financial institutions, restricts travel to the US, and freezes US assets.

The European Union and its member countries should expand or impose similar targeted economic and travel sanctions, and extend the existing EU arms embargo against Burma to include all forms of military assistance.

Similar measures should be taken by other concerned governments, including Japan, Norway, South Korea, Canada, and Australia.

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," Sifton said. "It hits those responsible for ethnic cleansing where it hurts."

Human Rights Watch analyzed a series of satellite images recorded between August 25 and September 16 that showed over 220 villages destroyed by fire in northern Rakhine State since the violence started.

Any ARSA commanders who are credibly implicated in serious abuses should also face sanctions.
British delegation wants inclusive polls in BD

A British Conservative Party delegation called on BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia\'s Gulshan office on Monday.

UNB, Dhaka :

The visiting British Conservative Party delegation on Monday hoped that Bangladesh's next general election will be free, fair and competitive with the participation of major political parties.

Talking to reporters after a meeting with BNP senior leaders, the UK's ruling party delegation chief Anne Main MP also hoped that BNP will take part in the election.

A seven-member Conservative Party delegation held the hour-long meeting with the BNP leaders at its Chairperson Khaleda Zia's Gulshan office.

"This meeting tonight has been very constructive obviously. We discussed various issues and some problems BNP is facing. I really hope they'll participate in the next election," Anne said.

She said the BNP leaders told them that the election should be run in a way so that they feel comfortable to participate in it.

"We're hopeful there'll be a competitive election where everybody will feel that they will get the chance to meet, discuss, associate and hold meetings and speak up for the cause of people."

She said, they expect that people will be able to vote for the candidates of their choice in the election.
Pvt donors facing problems

Md Joynal Abedin Khan :

Several hundred private aide groups, companies and personalities are allegedly facing barrier to distribute relief in Rohingya camps and adjacent areas due to extra check points and surveillance of the law enforcing agencies, witnesses said.

The donors are refused entry into Rohingya camps and the adjacent areas of the refugee shelters to distribute food, clothes and medicines as the law enforcing agencies and local administration do not give the permission in this regard, they alleged.

The private donors demanded that the government should allow them easily to reach the areas to distribute relief to ease crisis of the Rohingya refugees.

The law enforcers established huge check points to control the law and order situation while the plain-clothes men are performing their duties as per the instruction from the high ups of the government in Coxs Bazar and Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHI) areas, they said.

In Kutupalong camp area, the district administration has opened a centre beside Cox's Bazar-Teknaf road for individual relief donors to provide their names and the quantity of the goods they want to donate, said our local correspondent.

The individuals are then asked to go to designated places and distribute the relief, he said.

Anwar Hossain, social activist from Jaldhaka upazila of Nilphamari district, told The New Nation on Monday, Woman, children and elderly people stood beside roads and rushed towards any vehicle stopping near the shelters. Rohingyas in makeshift camps away from the main road said they received relief, but it was inadequate.

The cops allowed me after showing a letter from Jaldhaka Upazila Nirbahi Officer. They did not allow me to enter camp to distribute relief before submitting the letter, he said.

Gura Mia, a Rohingya, said, His young daughter died four days after arriving in Bangladesh as he could not find anything to feed her. It happened because no relief was reaching Tajnimaar Khola makeshift camp where he had taken refuge.

Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Executive Director of Coast Trust, told the media, in some areas people are getting more relief while in other areas they are not getting what they need following barrier of the law enforcers.

An international aid worker, requesting anonymity, said, "Nobody predicted the arrival to such a huge number of people within such a short period of time. And people are still coming every day. I think this chaotic situation will prevail for a month."

We have selected seven relief distribution points in Ukhiya and five in Teknaf. We are asking people to distribute certain goods at definite spots. But the situation is not in order yet as our logistic support and manpower is not enough to deal with so many refugees, said Mahidur Rahman, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Cox's Bazar.

The government is distributing relief materials received from India, Indonesia, Iran, Turkey and Morocco. Many NGOs have chipped in as well, he claimed.

Raihanul Islam Mia, Ukhiya Upazila Secondary Education Officer who was on duty at the relief registration point, said, We were supposed to send a government representative with the donors, but we could not do that due to manpower shortage. As a result, many private donors went to the camps for distributing relief materials among the refugees on their own depriving the elderly and children.




The UN has not reached its potential: Trump

The United Nations is not living up to its potential, US President Donald Trump has said in his first speech at the United Nations.

"Focus more on people, less on bureaucracy," he told a special meeting on reform which was held at UN headquarters in New York.

No state should bear a disproportionate share of costs, he said.

The US pays 28.5% of the overall peacekeeping bill, which Mr Trump has called unfair.

The American leader is due to deliver a longer speech when he addresses the UN General Assembly on Tuesday.

He is expected to call for a harder line on North Korea and Iran.

While still a candidate for the US presidency, Mr Trump sharply criticised the UN, speaking of its "utter weakness and incompetence".

"It has not reached its potential because of the bureaucracy and mismanagement," he said on Monday.

He encouraged member states to take a "bold stand" to change the UN's business-as-usual approach rather than "be beholden to ways of the past which are not working".

He called on the new Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, to make changes.

Mr Guterres responded by agreeing that excessive red tape kept him up at night.

"Someone out to undermine the UN could not have come up with a better way to do it than by imposing some of the rules we have created ourselves," said the Portuguese diplomat.

President Trump also complained that the US was "not seeing results in line with US investment".

Under pressure from the Trump administration, the UN has already cut its budget by more than $500m (370m).
Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
The Carbondale Police Department are seeking juvenile suspects in a Sunday night arson.

Officers were dispatched to a structure fire at a business at about 7:02 p.m. Sunday at 300 W. Chestnut St, according to a news release from the Carbondale Police Department.

The Carbondale Fire Department extinguished the fire. There were no reported injuries and no neighboring structures were damaged.

Officers learned the fire was started intentionally and that the suspects were juveniles. Their names are not being released.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the department at 618-451-3200 or Crime Stoppers at 618-549-2677.

 The Southern
A Chester man pleaded guilty Sept. 5 to aggravated criminal sexual assault in Randolph County Court.

According to a report released from Randolph County States Attorney Jeremy Walkers office, Michael A. Downey Jr., 25, admitted to placing his finger in the anus of a female victim in Chester on September 27, 2015, by force or threat of force and caused bodily harm to the victim.

The report said Downey has twice been found unfit for trial in this matter, however he was recently found to have regained fitness. Walker said after spending much time with the victim, they decided not to proceed to trial.

If we were to proceed to trial, additional charges from the same night/occurrence could have been charged, but would have been lesser offenses. We agreed to not file those charges, in exchange for the plea, Walker said in the release.

Aggravated criminal sexual assault is a class X felony and punishable by six to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Walker said he looks forward to presenting evidence to Judge Richard Brown during sentencing Oct. 13 that he hopes will yield a lengthy prison sentence.

 The Southern
"Tracy and I can't thank the people of Southern Illinois enough for their support and their prayers. Our victory tonight sends a powerful message to out-of-touch politicians everywhere that we're unified and unyielding in the fight for our conservative values. Joe Biden's going to be held accountable for destroying the economy, ignoring the border crisis, and taking us from America First to America Last in two years flat. But none of this would be possible without the trust of voters from across our vast 12th District. Serving you is truly the honor of a lifetime."
Forestry Association of South Carolina President Cam Crawford was presented a $5,000 grant awarded by Kristen Beckham, external affairs representative for Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, to support the S.C. Sustainable Forestry Teachers Tour.

The tour is a graduate-level course offered by the Office of Professional Development in Education at the College of Charleston. Teachers in grades kindergarten through 12 can participate, and the course focuses on the importance of sustainable forestry to South Carolinas environment, economy, and quality of life.

The program was hosted for the 20th consecutive year in 2017 by the Forestry Association of S.C., the S.C. Forestry Commission and S.C. Timber Producers Association.

The Forestry Association really appreciates the grant from Dominion Energy. Dominions support will allow us to train additional teachers about sustainable forestry and the importance of South Carolinas $21 billion forest industry, Crawford said.

Through the financial support of the forestry community in South Carolina and other funding sources such as Dominion Energy, the week-long tour is offered at no expense to the participants. It is designed to educate teachers about all aspects of growing and managing forests, timber harvesting, and the manufacturing of forest products. Over 575 teachers have completed the course since its inception, representing schools from across South Carolina.

Dominion Energy and the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation are pleased to partner with the South Carolina Forestry Foundation to support hands-on environmental and forestry education across South Carolina, Beckham said.

Planning has already begun for the 2018 Sustainable Forestry Teachers Tour, which will be held in Hartsville. For more information about the tour or the other forestry education programs of the Forestry Association, contact Janet Steele at 803-798-4170 or visit www.scforestry.org.

Dominion is one of the nations largest producers and transporters of energy. The Dominion Foundation is dedicated to improving the physical, social and economic well-being of the communities served by Dominion companies, including Dominion Carolina Gas Transmission. The foundation supports nonprofit causes that meet basic human needs, protect the environment, support education and promote community vitality. For more information about Dominion, visit www.dom.com.
Churches are havens and shelters for needy humans. They contain no perfect specimens.

Nevertheless, they are held to high standards and are embarrassed when their building doors are locked during a local crisis. Yet their mission goes on, and we would be most miserable without strong churches.

For example, as reported in the Philadelphia Inquirer, a University of Pennsylvania professor studied 11 churches and one synagogue and concluded that the average economic worth of each to its Philadelphia neighborhood was more than $4 million a year. Even more so, the non-financial benefits are priceless, as I was reminded during a recent weekend.

We had received an email from a young family, members of a church in our denomination, 150 miles away, asking for our help in their move to our town. They told us they expected to arrive on Saturday and asked if we could provide some muscle power to help them unload their truck. Although it was a busy summer weekend, and many families in our small church were out of town, I was able to assemble a sizable work team. In fact, some of our people telephoned me and said they were busy, but they would rearrange their schedule if I needed their help. I was able to assure them that we were already fully staffed.

That same Saturday afternoon my wife and I received a telephone call from some friends, an elderly couple, several hundred miles away. They needed a caretaker during a medical crisis. The couple was surviving in their private home, but barely. Because of some short-term medical issues, they were looking for help, and they needed care ASAP, STAT, PDQ. My wife immediately began planning to drive south the next day, but the immediate concern remained. Will they be OK tonight and tomorrow morning?

A young couple needed some help with a move, and they reached out to their larger church community. An elderly couple needed some immediate caretaking, but they had no church community. They had never been part of a religious fellowship. Granted, we could have telephoned churches in their area and located some assistance, but the helpers would not have had an established relationship of love and trust. Indeed, in this situation, our distant elderly friends would have been so untrusting and frightened as to have refused their help. At a moment of need, their life choices had cut them off from the local caring community.

The short-term and ongoing needs in southeastern Texas and now in Florida are massive, and Americans have united in donating money, supplies, time, and prayers on their behalf. Needs on a smaller scale, however, are often overlooked and ignored. Admittedly, those of us in churches too often make selfish and poor choices. In fact, I myself have some work to do, as I need to decide how best to respond to a chronic need in our local congregation.

I am not always at my best; our churches are not always at their best. Nevertheless, I was struck at the contrast during these recent events. We will all find ourselves in situations of need at some point in our lives. These times and situations will, to some extent, reflect our choices to invest ourselves as caring, working and contributing members of our own communities. Those within caring churches can turn to them as sources of support during times of need. Those without caring communities  not so much.
This past Monday, as the nation solemnly remembered the 16th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, we also linked arms to recover from two devastating hurricanes.

Be it in response to attacks on our way of life or natural crises that batter our shores, the American spirit is always ready to rebound and forge ahead. We demonstrate grit and resolve.

We're dirtied but not beaten.

On 9/11, thousands of people, many of whose names we'll never know, rushed into the crumbling rubble of the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon, risking life and limb to rescue people. Aboard United Flight 93, passengers gave their lives in a desperate struggle to prevent hijackers from diverting a fourth commercial airliner from targeting the White House, an act of bravery for which this country is forever grateful.

Even after all these years, the 9/11 attacks, the most deadly terrorist attack on U.S. soil, seem surreal. It was an unthinkable moment: nearly 3,000 lives wiped away in a single day. Thousands answered the call, including police from departments all over the nation who drove through the night to backstop their brethren in New York City. We rebuilt; we didn't cower in defeat.

Sixteen years later, again during the first year of a new administration, we find the heroes of Hurricane Harvey and Irma in Americans cut from the same selfless cloth.

Again, professional first responders and average citizens faced challenges they didn't seek and performed admirably, like the self-styled Cajun Navy, which plucked a 73-year-old woman found floating face-down from Harvey's waters in Texas. And we'll learn of more stories as the waters recede and emergency workers assess the aftermath of Irma's violent path through Florida and beyond.

Many of the rescuers eventually will return to flood-devastated homes, but in the moment of greatest need, they have put their own plight on the back burner in the interest of helping others. If there is a saving grace from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, it is that the loss of life appears relatively small, given the torrential winds and water surges across Texas and Florida.

And, yes, we will rebuild. As William Shakespeare once penned, "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them."

In such times of national crisis, the American spirit shows its greatness.

We honor the fallen and we carry on. That's what we do.

This editorial is from The Dallas Morning News via The Associated Press.
By Azernews

A joint flight and tactical exercises of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey have been launched.

The exercises, that will last until September 30, will involve up to 30 aircrafts of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey, including MiG-29, F-16, Su-25, C-130 Herkules, CASA CN-235 aircrafts, as well as Mi-35, Mi-17 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters.

Baku welcomed the first group of flight and engineering-technical staff of the Turkish Air Force on September 14. Another group of Turkish military aviation arrived in Azerbaijan on the next day, and F-16 Fighter aircrafts of Turkish Air Force arrived on September 16.

Azerbaijan and Turkey enjoy strategic relations in many fields, including the military sphere. Military cooperation between the brotherly countries dates back to 1992 when they signed an agreement on military education. Since then, the Azerbaijani and Turkish governments have been closely cooperating in both defense and security fields.

So far, the Azerbaijani and Turkish armed forces have hold regular drills, featuring various tactical and combat tasks both on Turkish and Azerbaijani territories.

This May, joint exercises of the two countries Armed Forces were held in Azerbaijan. The aim of the exercises was to improve coordination through the exchange of experience between the Armed Forces, as well as to achieve the interoperability of the military units of the two countries through joint headquarters planning, improving the readiness and capabilities of the units to conduct operations.

Later, in June, the two countries had military exercises in Nakhchivan.
By Azernews

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is one of the biggest problems for Azerbaijan just as much as for Turkey, Turkish envoy Erkan Ozoral said on September 15.

He made the remarks at an event dedicated to the 99th anniversary of the liberation of Baku by the Islamic Army of the Caucasus from the Bolshevik-Dashnak occupation.

The ambassador noted that Turkey and Azerbaijan have always been brotherly and friendly countries. Turkey has always supported and will support Azerbaijan, he added.

Ozoral said that graves of Turkish soldiers can be found in many parts of Azerbaijan.

Preservation of these graves to this day became possible thanks to the Azerbaijani people. Even during the Soviet times, Azerbaijanis preserved these burials as the graves of their relatives and brothers, he noted.

In 1917, after the collapse of the Russian Empire, the Azerbaijani people had a real chance to gain national statehood. However, Armenian chauvinists with the support of the Bolsheviks under different pretexts unleashed a massacre and embarked on interference, threatening the independence of Azerbaijan.

Atrocities, committed by Bolsheviks and Armenians against Azerbaijanis in 1918 forced leaders of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic to turn to fraternal Turkey. Whereas Turkey was defeated in the WWI, but it did not spare help to its brothers and, therefore, Caucasus Islamic Army of Turkey under the command of Nuru Pasha was sent to Azerbaijan. Thus, on September 15 Turkish troops liberated Baku from the occupation.

Turkey also became the first state to recognize Azerbaijan, which declared its independence in 1991. Turkey contributes to efforts aimed at the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty through peaceful means.

Ankara has repeatedly stated that the OSCE Minsk Group needs to intensify the search for solutions to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and offered its assistance in this matter.

Ozoral also touched upon joint military exercises of Azerbaijani and Turkish Air Forces titled TurAz Qartal?  2017. He stressed that these drills show once again that the Azerbaijani-Turkish cooperation is developing also in the military sphere and is at the highest level.

The exercises that will last until September 30 involve up to 30 aircrafts of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey, including MiG-29, F-16, Su-25, C-130 Herkules, CASA CN-235 aircrafts, as well as Mi-35, Mi-17 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters.
CFA Institute, the global association of investment management professionals, today announced its intention to open a CFA Institute office for the Middle East in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in 2018.



CFA Institute will work in close partnership with Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the International Financial Centre in Abu Dhabi, to establish its new presence to advance the CFA Institute mission to lead the investment profession by promoting the highest standards of ethics, education and professional excellence for the ultimate benefit of society, said a statement.



The office opening will be marked by a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony, between CFA Institute and ADGM, in Abu Dhabi in October 2017. The collaboration between CFA Institute and ADGM underscores the mutual commitment of both organisations to contribute to a growing international centre of excellence for knowledge in the Middle East and beyond.



The Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region is a key market for CFA Institute, with over 5,200 members and charterholders and eight societies. A total of 5,773 candidates registered for the June 2017 exams across the Mena region, an increase of 8 per cent over the prior year, with the greatest number of candidates in the UAE (1,909), Saudi Arabia (869) and Egypt (544).



Gary Baker, CFA, managing director for CFA Institute in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, commented: By establishing a permanent presence in Abu Dhabi, the opening of this new office signifies our commitment to the Middle East and North Africa. We are excited at the prospect of partnering with our local member societies that already achieve fantastic results for CFA Program candidates, members, and charterholders across the Mena region. By supporting local societies, we can intensify our efforts to build market integrity, enhance market transparency, and embed professionalism and excellence in the regional investment management industry.



Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, director of human resources and general services, ADGM, commented:

We warmly welcome CFA Institute to the ADGM family. Since ADGM announced its Knowledge Hub in May this year, we have received positive feedback and support from the Abu Dhabi Education Council, key Abu Dhabi institutions, global business schools and corporate stakeholders. The ADGM Academy, one of the strategic pillars of the Knowledge Hub, will soon offer a comprehensive curriculum of training and courses for the financial services industry. We hope to work closely with CFA Institute to explore new initiatives which strengthen the capabilities, proficiency and experience of financial professionals in Abu Dhabi and the wider region. - TradeArabia News Service
Bahrain-based NEC Payments, a payments technology company, has been awarded the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS v3.2) certification by SISA Information Security WLL, a top qualified security assessor.



This certification, achieved for the second year running, and which is in addition to the companys compliance with the International Organisation for Standardisation Quality Management System (ISO9001) and Information Security Management System (ISO27001) achieved earlier in the summer of 2017, is evidence of the security of NEC Payments next generation payment processing and digital banking applications, data, and business procedures, a statement said.



Andrew Sims, director and CEO at NEC Payments said: Security, and the protection of our technologies and data, is at the front and centre of everything that we do as an organisation. Over the last year, we have grown in our technical and security awareness, knowledge and capabilities; and we continue to devote significant effort and resources to maintaining our commitment to security and compliance with international standards and best practice.



SISA Information Security Worldwides CEO and founder, Dharshan Shanthamurthy said, Maintaining the safety of data and banking systems should be a top priority for processing and service provider companies. We are glad to know that NEC Payments holds the same belief and is working hard towards continuous security.  TradeArabia News Service
Saudi women feel confident about their working futures and what needs to be done to increase the number of women in the workplace, a report said, adding this is a critical part of helping the Kingdom to achieve its Vision 2030.



While the findings are specific to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the women's comments will resonate across the Gulf region.



The report titled Roads to the Top for Saudi Women from Metin Mitchell & Company, a Dubai-based executive search and management advisory firm, is based on interviews with pioneering women from education, medicine, financial services, philanthropy, e-commerce and the professions.



They shared experiences of their working lives and success and their perspectives of what the government, society and women themselves can do to encourage the next generation of working women. Interviews were carried out with Princess Banderi bint Abdulrahman AlFaisal, Dr Amal Fatani, May bint Mohammed Al-Hoshan, Hala Kudwah, Dr Taghreed M Al-Saraj, Dr Sameera Maziad Al Tuwaijri and others.



Metin Mitchell, founder of the company, said: "The women's comments will resonate across the Middle East - the big picture is similar across the region. The biggest challenge is how we support women into middle management to see a step change in achieving targets. Our female interviewees talked about the importance of role models and mentors. The other strong message is that women themselves are keen to help the Saudi government achieve its Vision 2030 targets - and they gave practical suggestions to do this."



"I have seen firsthand, in more than 20 years of headhunting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East, that time and again it is the women who are the outstanding candidates on our shortlists. I have been delighted to see them excel in their careers and become wonderful role models to the next generation of women, said Mitchell.



"That is what this report is about. These early female leaders have a wealth of insights and expertise to help future female leaders - but also to give their perspective on how to speed up the rate that women progress in the workplace and use their skills to help the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia succeed in its ambitions."



Mitchell said that to increase the number of women working and in more senior roles there need to be flexible working patterns to combine family and work balance. He added: "Work needs to be measured by outcomes rather than hours worked. Women are very good at working remotely and delivering results - they don't always have to be in an office. A mentor should be appointed to new female recruits and HR and management need to look at how they hire for talent rather than experience."



Princess Banderi bint Abdulrahman AlFaisal, director general at King Khalid Foundation said: "We need to change some of the male and female stereotypes and set roles. People should be equal, it isn't your gender that matters, it's what you do and how and what you contribute to your family and society.



We already see two-income households more and more in the country. Recently, especially in Vision 2030, the focus is on providing women with opportunities to study and work. Our society is changing and both men and women need to be open to change. I think female economic empowerment is very important for the future of our country."



Those interviewed stressed the importance of the family in the success of a woman. Many fathers encouraged and were the inspiration to their daughters, while supportive husbands have withstood cultural pressures to help their wives succeed. As one interviewee said, "The family unit will always remain the major portion of a holistic, stable society." To help, women would like to see quality childcare introduced at work.



The report includes tips from these trailblazing women for the next generation, ranging from the need to find a mentor to being confident about aiming for the boardroom if that is what a woman wants.



There were also ideas about how women can help each other. One said: "I read an article that said in the Obama administration they had very few women, so they came up with a strategy to amplify their voice. If May says we should focus on the strategy of expanding in the eastern region then Noura, another woman in the room a few minutes later would repeat what May said to make sure May was heard. It can be as simple as reiterating what somebody else said in a meeting."



Mitchell added: "These women were very clear about their own Saudi identity - they don't want to be the same as in the West or even the rest of the Middle East. They are proud of their country and their own role in its successful future."



Saudi Vision 2030 has a target to increase women's participation in the workforce from 22 per cent to 30 per cent - the government is delivering reforms to achieve this and encouraging changes in cultural practices to make them work.  TradeArabia News Service


The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, will leverage leading German logistics expertise in a new dual German-UAE Engineering Logistics degree, after it signed an agreement of cooperation with the Technical University of Applied Sciences (TUAS Wildau), based near Berlin, Germany.

The agreement was signed at the HCT-Abu Dhabi Mens campus by Dr Abdullatif Al Shamsi, HCT Vice Chancellor, and Professor Dr Laszlo Ungvari, President of TUAS Wildau, in the presence of Goetz Lingenthal, the German Ambassador in the UAE; Engineer Abdul Rahman Al Jahoushi, Abu Dhabi Mens campus director; as well as HCT Engineering Logistics faculty members.

The comprehensive programme will provide eligible students with the opportunity to earn a dual German-UAE Bachelor Degree, covering many facets and fields of logistics management. Under the agreement, faculty from TUAS Wildau will also be recruited to teach students and exchange their experiences with HCT Engineering Logistics faculty.

Dr Al Shamsi said the agreement reflected the HCTs emphasis on preparing students for the best in-demand specialisations in the UAE, and equipping them with world class skills and experiences, by establishing partnerships and collaborations that increase students opportunities to earn the best academic qualifications and acquire advanced professional skills.

This agreement is in line with the new HCT 2.0 vision that focuses on combining academic study and professional training, as it provides an opportunity for Engineering Logistics students, who fulfil the admission requirements of TUAS Wildau, to earn a dual German-UAE Bachelor Degree, Dr Al Shamsi said.

Dr Al Shamsi also praised TUAS Wildau for its cooperation with, and commitment to, the Engineering Logistics degree, emphasising that the partnership will be rewarding for both HCT students and faculty.

Dr Ungvari expressed his pleasure with signing the agreement, which is a continuation of the previous successful years of cooperation between the two institutions in the field of logistics. He also emphasised the willingness of TUAS Wildau to exchange its experiences, knowledge and expertise with HCT in the area of Engineering Logistics in order to achieve the programmes desired objectives.

Students interested in earning an Engineering Logistics Bachelor Degree from TUAS Wildau, in addition to their HCT Bachelor Degree, must fulfil the admission requirements and conditions of TUAS Wildau, including German language proficiency.

To earn the dual degree students will also be required to complete the final year of study (two semesters) at TUAS Wildau in Germany, where the first semester will focus on theoretical study and specialized lectures, and the second semester will focus on applied studies and specialized German professional experience.

Students who dont fulfill these requirements will receive the HCT Bachelor Degree in Engineering Logistics.  TradeArabia News Service
DP World Sokhna, a marine terminal operated by DP World in Egypt, recently welcomed the first Baby Capesize dry cargo vessel Mini to the port.



Hailing from Brazil and loaded with more than 111,000 metric tonnes of iron ore, the vessel has a length of 225 m and a breadth of 43 m, said a statement.



DP World Sokhna head of operation Ahmed Hassan gifted a crystal plaque to the vessel's master captain Amarendra Patnaik.



DP World Sokhna officials also held a ceremony to celebrate the event.



DP World Sokhna is part of the DP World's international network that currently encompasses 77 marine and inland terminals supported by over 50 related businesses in 40 countries across six continents, making DP World one of the largest marine terminal operators in the world.



Located at the heart of the vitally important East-West trade route just below the southern entrance to the Suez Canal, DP World Sokhna is strategically located to handle cargo transiting through one of the world's busiest commercial waterways.



As part of an international network, DP World Sokhna is committed to providing customers with outstanding services through an integrated port management approach, combined with leading-edge technology.



Ajay Singh, CEO of DP World Sokhna, said: Bringing such large vessel to Egyptian ports provide economies of scale to shippers, resulting in substantial savings in terms of time and money for their shipments.  TradeArabia News Service
Business France, the national agency supporting the international development of the French economy, will host two French pavilions at Gulfhost and the Specialty Food Festival.

Gulfhost and Specialty Food Festival will be taking place from September 18-20 at the Dubai WOrld Trade Centre.

The French display will consist of kitchen equipment and gourmet products offered by over 50 French firms, each displaying premium products and knowhow.



This year, the French Pavilions have numerous novelties to offer. Business France export team will also be attending to boost business opportunities in the region, focusing on all buyer nationalities together with the most promising ones, namely: UAE, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Srilanka.



UAE imports 85 per cent of its agri-food products, with France ranking 11th among its importers list, and the second most important European importer (3 per cent market share in 2016).



Participating at Gulfhost this year:

- Devup, promoting organization from the French region Centre Val de Loire

- Syneg, the French organization of professional kitchen equipment manufacturers partners with 30 leading firms exhibiting at the French Pavilion. As the prime partner of French SMEs, manufacturers and subsidiaries of international brands, SYNEG covers 75 per cent of the market of professional kitchen equipment in France.



Visitors of the French pavilion can also take part in the Syneg & Equiphotel prize draw by dropping their business card to win a touch-tablet! Two winners will be selected each day from September 18 to 20.



French offer at Speciality Food Festival:

This year, the French Pavilion is stronger than ever with 22 brands exhibiting their latest products and creations over an area of 114-sq-m at the Hall Zaabeel. It will be the location to enjoy and relish the display of generous and refined French gourmet sweets. Local consumption of French confectionery, from jam, dragees to chocolate truffle, has been increasing lately, making it a strong point of attraction at the festival. Other food industries shall be present at the festival, ranging from dairy products, to beverages and specific industries (e.g. oyster production). Visitors can then discover specific and diverse French products.



French firms have the expertise, technological abilities and strong innovation skills required to enable French agrifood businesses to be ranked among the top European exporters and gain worldwide renown.



Interesting and captivating perspectives to consider for those interested in top quality French products!



Participating for the first time at SFF this year are:

- Horizon International, promoting organisation of the French region Nouvelle Aquitaine firms

- Friaa Paca, regional Agrifood Industry Federation from south of France

- Le Monde de LEpicerie Fine, a reference magazine on market trends of gourmet products and a strong partner of firms working in this field. The magazine will be on display at the French Pavilion.



Long standing French partners such as Evian, Badoit, Cafes Richard will also attend. - TradeArabia News Service




Dubai Maritime City (DMC) has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Tactics Maritime Creative Communication, the company responsible for managing and publishing Marasi News, the first maritime specialised media platform in the Middle East.



In return, Marasi News shall provide integrated media services for companies operating in DMC, in order to help them increase their sales and enhance their presence in the market, through giving them professional and specialised media services that satisfies the needs of shipping and maritime companies.



"Through this partnership we aim to enhance the maritime services sector and create media momentum that will open up more business opportunities for the companies that operate in DMC," remarked Ali Al Suwaidi, the general manager of Dubai Maritime City after signing the deal with Mohammed Bin Dakhin Al Matroushi, the editor-in-chief at Marasi News and the chairman of Tactics Creative Communication.



Al Suwaidi said: "Since the establishment of DMC, we have realised that our success depends on providing the incentives and the abilities that help our companies to deliver their maritime services in both professional quality and economic feasibility."



"This new media partnership with Marasi News is aimed at fulfilling the needs of maritime companies operating in DMC, in order to obtain professional media services provided by a professional team that understands and speaks the maritime sector language," he added.



Al Matroushi ointed out that this partnership was an important step towards strengthening maritime economy in the UAE, as it was one of the main pillars contributing in building a sustainable economy away from oil revenues.



"Over the years, we realized the great opportunities lies in the maritime sector, where UAEs total amount of expenditure on this sector exceeds Dh272 billion ($74 billion) a year," stated the official.



"This means that the maritime sector brings great revenues and whoever invest in it by enhancing their media presence and launch professional marketing campaigns will definitely gain a bigger share in the market and a higher sales and revenues," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia today announced the launch of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.



Hosted and organised by PIF, the kingdom's main investment arm and one of the world's leading sovereign wealth funds, the FII will take place from October 24 to 26 in Riyadh.



It will be a game-changing platform exploring the new trends, opportunities, challenges and emerging industries that will shape the world economy and investment environment over the coming decades, a statement said.



This inaugural FII will be held under the leadership of HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs and chairman of PIF.



The invitation-only event will bring together internationally-renowned business and investment leaders. A number of high profile speakers have already been confirmed, covering major investors, global financial institutions and established and emerging businesses, including:

 Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO, BlackRock

 Stuart Gulliver, Group Chief Executive, HSBC

 Joe Kaeser, President and CEO, Siemens

 Tong Li, CEO, Bank of China

 Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO, SoftBank Group

 George Whitesides, CEO, Virgin Galactic



The attendees will also include established players, new innovators and creators across key sectors that will shape the future global economy.



Yasir bin Othman Al-Rumayyan, managing director of PIF, remarked: "The Future Investment Initiative will provide an unprecedented opportunity for many leaders and influencers around the world to better understand the future of the global investment landscape. It will also act as a platform to showcase the PIF's redefined investment mandate and strategy, as it progresses towards becoming the world's largest sovereign wealth fund."



Through a highly collaborative and interactive programme, over 2,000 attendees will discuss long-term investment and global trends across a broad range of topics. The event is designed around three key pillars: Shifting centers of power; the new investment paradigm and innovation for a better world.



The FII is being organised in the context of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a blueprint that is already charting the path for the kingdom to harness its strategic location and strong investment capabilities. The core principles of the event are aligned with the strategic objectives and targets of the kingdom's National Transformation Plan, which is key to achieving Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030.



More information on the event is available at www.futureinvestmentinitiative.com/en/home# -TradeArabia News Service


International leaders of the diamond industry ranging from African ministers to traders, financiers and world-renowned jewellers will take part in the Dubai Diamond Conference, to be held next month.



The Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), a Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) platform, today announced the keynote speakers and subjects to be discussed at the third edition of its biennial two-day Dubai Diamond Conference 2017 (DDC 2017) under the theme Destination Next  Shaping the future of an interconnected marketplace.



The conference takes place in Dubai's Almas Tower, which houses the Dubai Diamond Exchange, on October 16 and 17.



The Dubai Diamond Conference, which has gained a reputation for identifying the main issues impacting the global industry, will again provide a rich agenda of subjects critical to the future of the diamond business worldwide, a statement said.



DMCCs executive chairman, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, is to open the conference and will welcome top-level speakers and panellists from every sector of the diamond pipeline and from across the world who will provide their input on the enormous changes that have taken place in recent years  and speak about where the industry is heading.



Some of the key issues that will be discussed at the conference include:



* With the rough diamond trade continuing to see deep-seated changes and long-time stakeholders taking different roles as new players join the business, what does the future hold for the rough sector?

* In finance, banks are continually changing their policies and liquidity has become a scarce resource for many, so panellists will discuss what this means for diamantaires. The issue of sustainability has attained growing importance and is seen as vital in creating a viable future for the human race, but how widespread is it and is the diamond industry on track to meet global goals?

* In the retail sector, the relative strength of diamond jewellery consuming markets is changing  what does that mean for sales in the future?



Sir Mark Moody-Stuart, chairman, Global Compact Foundation, will also speak on the opening day of the conference about United Nations Global Compact which encourages businesses to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies and to report on their implementation backed up by his extensive experience in the business world over several decades.



A major panel discussion to be moderated by Iris Van der Veken, director  public affairs & policy international, DMCC, on Day 1 will further drive the importance of the sustainability agenda with Sir Mark Moody-Stuart; World Federation of Diamond Bourses President Ernie Blom; Responsible Jewellery Council Executive Director Andrew Bone; De Beers Group Head of Government and Industry Relations Feriel Zerouki; CIBJO, The World Jewellery Confederation President, President Dr Gaetano Cavalieri; Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council Chairman Praveenshankar Pandya; and Signet Jewelers Ltd. Vice-President, Corporate Affairs, David Bouffard.



We recognise the importance of bringing the sustainability agenda to our conference and to bring insights from other industries in the field of corporate sustainability. The Dubai Diamond Conference is a great opportunity to reconnect all stakeholders to discuss a common sense of purpose so we together can build a better future of trade for all, ultimately a roadmap of continuous improvement," said Iris Van der Veken.



Panel discussions on Day 2 will focus on the following topics: Lab-grown diamonds and their disclosure: Is there a problem?, Bankability, transparency, innovation, KP Reform: A reality or a never ending story?, The impact of value added tax (VAT) or GST on wholesale diamond trading, and Tender or auctions: temporary phenomenon or new business of the future? - TradeArabia News Service
UAE's leading telecom services operator Etisalat will officially launch the first IPX Exchange platform in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region to support IPX traffic exchange (an integral part of its smart hub services) at the 13th Telecoms World Middle East expo which opens in Dubai today (September 18).

The two-day event, being held at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, is among the biggest and most influential telecom events in the region dedicated to examining the future of telecoms in the Middle East, North Africa, South and Central Asia and across the globe attracting over 800 attendees from the full spectrum of the industry.

IPX Exchange is a platform through which Mobile Carriers, CDN, Cloud players and ISPs can interconnect and exchange Ethernet traffic and roaming traffic, using MPLS (Layer2 and Layer3) among their networks.

Ali Amiri, the chief carrier and wholesale officer for Etisalat Group, said: "The launch of the first IPX Exchange is an achievement as it sets a benchmark for Etisalat and the industry. The exchange will give our customers a high quality service in terms of flexibility of speed and accessibility."

"The IPX exchange will add value to the SmartHub data centers services and to our customers by providing them better connectivity and a reliable platform, also adding new facility to the existing platforms at United States, Europe and Singapore," noted Amiri.

Etisalats SmartHub, he stated, was the largest capacity, content, internet and data hub in the Middle East.

"SmartHub provides regional access for global service providers and global access to the internet for the region. Also it includes the Middle Easts first IPX Exchange for mobile operators and includes the regions largest portfolio," he explained.

SmartHub have been powered by many platforms including submarine systems, Capacity structuring, IX etc. all of which serves carriers and ISPs for carrier grade services. The latest IPX/GRX exchange platform will power SmartHub also to serve Mobile Carrier Operators, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters is set to put an amazing idea into action, giving Dubais coffee connoisseurs an unmissable opportunity to sip the most expensive coffee in the world.



The 601 Experience is about sharing the world-renowned Panama Hacienda La Esmeralda Canas Verdes lot Montana Geisha Natural with the world. There is only 45.5 kilograms of the history making and record-breaking coffee in the world. This natural-processed Geisha was sold at the Best of Panama Specialty Coffee auction for a record price of $1,324.96 per kilogram, and now its time to have your share at Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters, who will host the bespoke event from 2pm onwards on Saturday, September 30.



The UAE market is hungry for coffee and Im proud to be the one to bring this record-breaking experience to Dubai. Who knows what the future will bring, but today this coffee is the highest scoring and best tasting coffee among the Global Specialty Coffee Grading System. This is not an opinionated taste, but a proven fact, said Karim Hassan, founder, Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters.



The opportunity to be among the privileged who samples the worlds most experience coffee is and be part of the bespoke event is valued between Dh250 ($68) to Dh550 ($149.7) per ticket. For Dh250, the guest receives 15g of roasted Esmeralda Geisha Canas Verdes and admit entry to the 601 Experience. They are also eligible to bring a friend at no additional charge.



For Dh550, the guest receives 15g of roasted coffee to brew it at Seven Fortunes, plus 50 grams of the Esmeralda Geisha Canas Verdes in beans. The sample must be picked up at the event.



Spearheaded by finance-major alum turned coffee king Karim Hassan, Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters takes its coffee very seriously and has grown to be a major player on the Middle Eastern coffee landscape. They import beans from as far as Colombia, Nicaragua, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ethiopia and Guatemala and sell them wholesale to popular cafes, restaurants and boutique hotels in Dubai as well as producing smaller bags to enjoy at home. - TradeArabia News Service


The expansion contracts for Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) are likely to be signed by the end of this year, said the state news agency BNA citing the oil minister.



"Bapco will choose the winning bid in the near future, with final contracts to be signed before the end of 2017," oil minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al Khalifa was quoted as saying in the report.



"More than 50 per cent of the construction and modernisation work in the southern part of the kingdom has already been completed and the pipeline is being buried in southern Bahrain and the project is in full swing as planned and budgeted," Sheikh Mohammed added.



The oil minister said the move was aimed at doubling the capacity of existing pipelines over 70 years ago.



"Oil will remain the most important commodity in the world. The Gulf region, which has the world's leading strategic location, will continue to have the largest oil reserves and the highest production rates," remarked Sheikh Mohammed.



The price estimated for a barrel of oil in the state budget for the fiscal years 2017-2018, he said.



Regarding construction of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, the oil minister said that work has begun on the project and is hoped to complete it by the end of next year.



In an exclusive interview to BNA, Sheikh Mohammed said a work plan is under way to study and develop a deep gas development plan, which includes digging wells on land for extraction.



"Once done, Bahrain will have three sources of gas, namely natural gas, deep gas and liquefied gas," he added.
CB&I, a leading provider of technology and infrastructure for the energy industry, today announced a consortium comprising the company and Saipem has been awarded a contract by Duqm Refinery and Petrochemicals Industries Company (DRPIC) for EPC Package 3 for the Duqm Refinery Project.



DRPIC is a joint venture between Oman Oil Company and Kuwait Petroleum International.



The consortium's scope of work for Package 3 encompasses the engineering, procurement and construction of a product export terminal at Duqm Port, a crude tank farm at Ras Markaz and an 80-km crude oil pipeline.



CB&I will be performing all of the EPC works for storage tanks at the export terminal and crude tank farm, while Saipem  the leader of Package 3  will perform the balance of the works.

CB&I's portion of the contract is valued at approximately $140 million, the company said.



"CB&I has decades of experience in Oman, including the supply of tanks and pressure spheres for Oman Oil Company at their refineries in Sohar and Muscat," said Luke V Scorsone, executive vice president of CB&I's Fabrication Services operating group. "This award provides our customer with certainty in price, schedule and quality, and also creates more work opportunities for Omanis, which is one of the goals of the Duqm project." - TradeArabia News Service
Trend Micro detected more than 82 million ransomware threats in the first half of the year, along with more than 3,000 business email compromise (BEC) attempts, the cybersecurity solutions leader said in a new report.



Businesses are faced with increased ransomware, BEC scams and Internet of Things (IoT) attacks, and now also contend with the threat of cyberpropaganda, added the report titled 2017 Midyear Security Roundup: The Cost of Compromise.



Despite the rising percentage of security spending in IT budgets, a recent analyst report by Forrester notes that funds are not properly being allocated to address the growing threats facing enterprises today.



Enterprises need to prioritize funds for effective security upfront, as the cost of a breach is frequently more than a companys budget can sustain, said Max Cheng, chief information officer of Trend Micro.



Major cyberattacks against enterprises globally have continued to be a hot-button topic this year, and this trend is likely to continue through the remainder of 2017. Its integral to the continued success of organizations to stop thinking of digital security as merely protecting information, but instead as an investment in the companys future.



In April and June, the WannaCry and Petya ransomware attacks disrupted thousands of companies across multiple industries world-wide. The global losses from the attack, including the resultant reduction in productivity and cost of damage control, could amount to as much as $4 billion. In addition, BEC scams raised the total of global losses to $5.3 billion during the first half of 2017, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).



As predicted, January through June experienced a rise in IoT attacks, as well as the spread of cyberpropaganda. In collaboration with Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI), Trend Micro showed it is possible for industrial robots to be compromised, that could amount to massive financial damage and productivity loss, proving that smart factories can ill-afford to dismiss the importance of securing these connected devices. There was also an increased abuse of social media with the rise of cyberpropaganda.



Given the tools available in underground markets, the spread of Fake News, or bad publicity, will cause serious financial ramifications for businesses whose reputation and brand equity is damaged by cyberpropaganda.



Trend Micro XGen security provides proactive protection and guidance for companies facing these pressing and growing threats with a cross-generational approach to threat defence. The threats that have manifested throughout the beginning of 2017 are only a fraction of what is likely to come. Cybercriminals are getting smarter with their attacks every day and companies should be prepared by having the appropriate budgets and solutions in place.  TradeArabia News Service
Crowne Plaza Amman has been named the Luxury Family Friendly Hotel of the year 2017 by the Luxury Travel Guide Middle East & Africa Awards 2017.



The awards highlight the best accommodation providers throughout their region. The winners have been chosen for their unique interior design, innovation, rooms and facilities, location, employee satisfaction and most importantly their service excellence.



"Crowne Plaza Amman and its team are honoured to win such a prestigious award that not only recognises their efforts as a luxurious property and an integral part of the tourism scene in Jordan, but also motivates them to better enhance and improve themselves as people, services, and as facilities to provide guests and tourists with a memorable experience," the hotel said in a statement. - TradeArabia News Service
A boy and a girl stood next to each other while the play director read lines out of a three-ring binder. Richard Burk led the pair across the Casper College main stage during a rehearsal last week, explaining where to walk, stop and turn for a scene.

Burk read the lines for Mary Poppins, while the kids portrayed the two naughty children, Jane and Michael Banks, meeting their new nanny.

Im practically perfect, and heres my aim, to by the time I leave here, you both will be the same, Burk read. Youll be practically perfect.

Practically perfect? Madyn Waring, 10, and Brody Houck, 9, answered in unison.

The two were among 20 children who auditioned last month for the role of Jane and Michael Banks in Casper Colleges fall musical production of Mary Poppins.

As the children went over their stage blocking with the director, college students watched from the theater seats, pulled on character shoes and chatted off stage as they prepared for rehearsal.

The colleges theater productions occasionally include children when the script calls for it, Burk said. The two youngest actors in the cast spend the most time on stage, and theyre keeping up with the rest of the actors preparing for the Oct. 20 opening night, Burk said.

Both have been in plays before at the Casper Childrens Theatre, and Madyn has performed at Stage III Community Theatre. But these roles are their largest yet.

Theres a lot more notes, a chorus, theres a lot more older people, Brody said. Theres a lot more seats in the audience, I guess, a bigger stage  its a huge difference.

A bigger stage

Brody and Madyn sat in theater seats going through part of their scripts last Wednesday while the director worked scenes with other actors. During another moment of downtime, the pair ran through lines on a corner of the stage.

They practice any chance they get outside of rehearsal, too, like repeating lines before school or singing along with the music on car rides.

Acting in a college play takes more multitasking than Madyns previous roles, because shell often be singing, dancing and delivering lines in one scene, she said. There also are a lot of directions to remember as the cast and director hone scenes each rehearsal.

Its a lot more demanding, and theres a lot more things to do, Madyn said. And I had to learn to focus more because you need to focus a lot.

Burk last Wednesday explained how to play to the audience on a thrust stage rather than a proscenium stage, in which the entire audience faces the stage parallel, for instance.

Dont think about your back to the audience, because your back is only to some of the audience, he told them.

Burk said he hasnt had to direct the younger actors much differently than his college students. He checks that they understand what hes telling them, though they always catch on quickly, he said.

I try to treat them as much like the other students as possible, Burk said. They both are very bright kids, and I dont ever want them to think Im talking down to them.

Being in Mary Poppins is helping them prepare for more academic and professional situations, Madyn said. She plans a career in neurosurgery but hopes to participate in high school and college plays.

Brody has wanted to be an actor since his first play at the Casper Childrens Theater, he said. Hes been learning not just from his role but also from watching college actors like Dylan Doherty, who portrays Bert in the play, he said.

Hes learned skills like staying in character at all times on stage, singing techniques and more about music in general, like the difference between tenors, basses and sopranos, he said.

The two kids chatted and laughed with the college students during breaks, and said its fun just to be around the older cast members. Everyone in the show has different interests, but the play is something they all have fun with and work hard on together, Brody said.

I feel like Im older, Brody said. Its like I could just be a movie star.

Commitment

Madyn remembers how thrilled she was when her mother told her last month shed landed the part.

I sort of screamed and cried at the same time, she said.

Brodys parents made him a card with his picture to tell him the news, he said. He ran around and danced.

Theyve arranged their schedules to accommodate being in the play. Now they spend three hours weekday evenings rehearsing as well as all day Saturday. Both said they do their homework right after school, so they can eat, rehearse and get enough sleep. Madyn often eats dinner before the rest of her family, she added.

Her father, Andrew Waring, said hes enjoying watching her immerse herself in something she loves and learn lessons that go even beyond theater.

I like that she has to see how hard you have to work if you want to do a good job at something, he said, to actually see what adults do when theyre putting time into something as opposed to how kids treat something.

Brodys mother also sees him enjoying and benefiting from the show.

I think the responsibility and commitment of his role, its kind of a big deal, Stephanie Houck said. Hes excited to come every single night.

Madyn and Brody said they wouldnt hesitate to try out for another part in a college play. As opening night draws closer, theyre looking forward to performing in front of larger crowds than they have before.

Im a bit nervous, Brody said. But I feel confident that I can do this.

The director is confident in them too. When asked what Mary Poppins would think of Brody and Madyn, Burk quoted the nannys signature song.

Theyre Practically Perfect choices for the roles, he said.
I've held a bunch of jobs at the Star-Tribune: cops reporter, health writer, features coordinator, assistant content director and now editor. But for a glorious 18 or so months, I held perhaps my least deserving but most enjoyable title: food critic.

Yes, I wrote a food column, and yes, it was a play on my last name. Hungry Like the Wolf debuted in December of 2013 and ran until the summer of 2015. That itself is a minor miracle, given that I'm not at all qualified to judge food, as I don't like fish, pork or exotic vegetables like cucumbers. Also, because my editor allowed me to write about existentialism and science fiction.

Since I put down my fork and knife, a ton of new restaurants have opened in Casper. Some of those restaurants make food that's really tasty, and occasionally I'll get sad that I don't write about tasty food anymore. So I'm going to give it a shot and get the band back together for one final gig. Here are my favorite restaurants to debut in Casper post-Hungry Like the Wolf.

Himalayan Indian Cuisine

I love my wife and children. I love my parents and siblings. I even love my dog, despite his shedding and constant need for attention. After that, there's a three-way tie for my affection: indie rock, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Indian food.

You're probably saying, "Josh, that's very nice, but a lot of people like Indian food. That doesn't set you apart or make you special." And technically, you'd be right in that that none of us is exceptional, at least when considering the absolute size and age of the universe and the likely possibility that our universe is but one in a larger multi-verse. But you'd be wrong about my love of Indian food. Think about the depth of the Mariana Trench or the splendor of the Grand Canyon. Now multiply is by a 1,000 suns and you arrive at Josh's love of Indian food.

For a long time, that love was of the bitter, star-crossed variety. That's because there was no Indian restaurant in Casper. No longer. We are now home to an Indian restaurant. (That's quite possibly the most joyful sentence of my career.) It's called Himalayan Indian Cuisine and you can find it in downtown Casper.

It's got a swell lunch buffet that always leave me uncomfortably full. You'll find all the standards like chicken tikka masala, plus a few Himalayan options like the chicken chili. But the restaurant hits another gear with its dinner menu. The spices get bolder, the flavors more rich. I'd particularly recommend the korma and the rogan josh. (Not because of my name, silly.) The samosas are killer and the nan is complimentary at lunch. Stop reading and go try it. I'll wait.

Racca's Pizzeria Napoletana

When I first moved to Casper, pizza options were ... limited. There were the delivery places and not much else. I'm not going to call what happened next a pizza revolution, but we have good, locally made options now. That's both good and bad in that pizza makes me fat but also makes me happy.

The best of the bunch is Racca's, which offers fantastic food, great drinks and a cool downtown atmosphere. The crust is the real hero here: chewy and full of flavor. So are the fresh ingredients that make the toppings so tasty. I'd recommend the Lirguria, a basil pesto pizza topped with chicken, red onions, mozzarella, Romano and pine nuts. For cocktails, try the Backwards Wild Man, which has locally made rum and mead. And make sure you try the desserts, particularly the pannacota, which is so blissfully creamy that I'm tearing up thinking about it. But really, I've enjoyed everything on the menu, so try whatever you want because you'll like it.

Miss Sara's Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Technically, this is not a restaurant, in that it's a food truck and lacks things like a permanent building with classy decor and a toothpick dispenser. I don't care. It's great so I'm putting it on my list. Humanity took a great leap forward when some genius decided to class up the grilled cheese sandwich. No longer did we have to apologize for loving carbs, butter and cheese. We were foodies, sampling the richness of life via our stomachs.

I'd recommend the Berry Cheesy, which has mozzarella, a blueberry balsamic reduction sauce and spinach, which makes it incredibly healthy so don't worry about a thing. Or if you're like me, and you don't believe in half measures or restraint, try the mac and cheese sandwich. Then nap away the afternoon, content in your own good decision making.

Arepa Barn

Speaking of places where you'll want to nap afterward: Meet the Arepa Barn in north Casper. The food is very good, but also very rich. I mean that in the best way possible. It serves mostly arepas and empanadas, so prepare for a lot of grilled dough on the outside and meat on the inside. They give you a bunch of sauces to try and there's one with avocado and garlic and I won't talk about it in more depth because I try not to get emotional at work.

Here's another thing you should know about the Arepa Barn: The people who run it are about as friendly as you'll find at a restaurant. One of the owners comes by and shakes hands with every customer. It's an inviting environment, so if you're not sure about trying something new, don't worry, they will treat you right.
Caspar Collins was a 20-year-old U.S. Army second lieutenant killed in 1865. The fort where he died, the city of Casper and Casper Mountain were named in his honor  though unfortunately no one got the spelling right.

On the morning of July 26, Collins led 25 soldiers out of Platte Bridge Station to protect an incoming supply wagon train from American Indians in the area. The soldiers were still in sight of the fort when they were ambushed by overwhelming numbers of Cheyenne, Lakota and Arapaho.

Collins was among the 20 soldiers killed in the attack, known as the Battle of Platte Bridge.

Background

Collins traveled in the spring of 1862 to the Western frontier with his father, William Collins, a lawyer, Ohio senator and commander of the 11th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. Young Collins enlisted in the 11th Ohio the following summer. He was stationed at Sweetwater Station, and was just passing through Platte Bridge Station at the time of his death.

Some say he was still stung by a general's words and determined to prove his bravery when he agreed to lead the detachment of the 11th Kansas Cavalry on the doomed mission.

"I'm no coward," he's said to have replied to the general at Fort Laramie who accused him of cowardice days before. Collins had objected to riding alone back to Sweetwater Station, the local legend goes.

The Battle of Platte Bridge was part of retaliations across the central plains for the Sand Creek Massacre in Colorado Territory. Hundreds of U.S. troops attacked a peaceful Southern Cheyenne village the previous November, brutally killing about 135 people. Most were women and children, according to the Wyoming State Historical Society.

Misspelled legacy

Collins rode to his death leading men from a different regiment at a fort he was just passing through. The 11th Kansas officers were either sick on the day of the battle or found a way to avoid the dangerous assignment.

Colorado's Fort Collins was already named for his father, so Platte Bridge Station was renamed Fort Casper. The city around the old fort site, a creek and a mountain now carry on his name  along with the misspelling he'd endured through his life.

The fort, which was abandoned two years after Collins' death, was reconstructed beginning in 1936 and the name was corrected to Fort Caspar.

Memory preserved

Whether Collins was a hero, a casualty of cowardice by fellow officers or just plain unlucky has been a debate since the day he died. But he remains a local legend.

He left behind drawings and letters detailing fort life, Native Americans, animals and the landscapes that surrounded him.

Collins was buried at Platte Bridge and later moved to Fort Laramie. His fellow soldiers escorted his body home to Hillsboro, Ohio the next spring for his third and final funeral.

His gravestone reads: Killed in battle leading a forlorn hope against the Indians at Platte Bridge
The Medicare for All bill proposed by Sen. Bernie Sanders and prominent Democrats has been greeted in Wyoming with a mixture of skepticism and outright disapproval, with Sens. John Barrasso and Mike Enzi characterizing it as a failed approach that would have destructive consequences and would institute a government takeover of health care.

Barrasso said other, similar systems are in death spirals, and Enzi warned of Canadas system, which, he said, leaves patients on lengthy waiting lists. But a policy expert called the claims baseless and says the U.S. lags far behind on health care.

Sanders  a Vermont Independent who ran against Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary last year  has sponsored a bill that would phase in single-payer health care to all Americans over a period of several years. As of Friday, a number of Democratic senators had signed on, including rumored 2020 presidential hopefuls like Sens. Cory Booker and Kamala Harris.

Sanders plan would make the government the sole provider of health insurance and would expand the services  like dental health  not covered currently by Medicare.

Its the most radical move made by Democrats on health care this year. Several Republican-led efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, meanwhile, have failed in recent months.

Most lawmakers and policy experts agree Sanders bill is almost certainly doomed. Even if it were miraculously passed in the Republican-controlled House and Senate, President Donald Trump vowed on Twitter to veto the proposal. He added that single-payer health care was a curse on the U.S.

On Thursday, Barrasso called the proposal a complete government takeover of health care and said it had become a litmus test for the liberal left. Essentially, he said, the goalposts are being moved: While Democrats in the past have started from the position of defending Obamacare, they now are moving further left on health care.

A message left for Rep. Liz Cheney was not returned.

Barrasso noted the bills cost  the left-leaning Urban Institute projected it would add up to $32 trillion over 10 years  and said that the increased taxes likely needed to pay for it would have astronomical effects on taxpayers. In a statement also released Thursday, he called on the Congressional Budget Office to provide more information about the bills fiscal impact.

Enzi said there hasnt been a serious attempt to figure out how to pay for such a program. He added that Wyoming would face less choice, worse health care options and other potential unforeseen consequences should the bill come to pass.

Of course, such a system would be anything but free for the American taxpayer, Barrasso wrote. As the country engages in a serious debate about how best to reform our health care system, it is imperative that the public understand the cost of Senator Sanders Medicare-for-All proposal.

Businesses skeptical

Anne Ladd, the CEO of the Wyoming Business Coalition on Health, said the employers she represents initially expressed wariness because theyre not big fans of government. But, those employers say, if a universal or single-payer system could cut inefficiencies, then some businesses may be on board. She used an example of a company having five billing clerks to deal with multiple insurers.

If it creates efficiencies people hope for and if in fact it could lead to lower costs and better outcomes because you have a powerful entity working on it, businesses may back it, she said.

As for the hefty price tag the measure could bring, Ladd said employers know theyre already paying more for the uninsured and underinsured. If a man hasnt received consistent care and uses the emergency room in a dire situation, and then isnt able to pay the bill, the cost is absorbed by hospitals and shifted to the insured and to businesses.

I get frustrated with the question of how were going to pay for it, Ladd said. The question for who pays is like shifting deck chairs on the Titanic as it sinks. We pay through higher taxes, through lower salaries (for employees). In one way or another, we pay. The question is: How do we get a much more rational system?

Theres skepticism among employers, she cautioned, but a wary willingness to look at the issue further.

Eric Schneider, a senior vice president for policy and research for the Commonwealth Fund, said the transition costs alone would be significant and could affect jobs, as efficiencies are found.

It would be incredibly disruptive, he said of a single-payer transition. Its not impossible ... You can gradually make that change, but we wouldnt want to replicate whats happened in the coal industry with fewer jobs.

Looking abroad

Barrasso drew a connection between Sanders proposal to systems in place in Canada and the United Kingdom, which he portrayed as in a death spiral in a Fox News editorial. He said Canadians and British citizens often have to wait for extended periods of time to receive treatment, particularly elective care  like total joint replacements.

In his interview with the Star-Tribune, he said he had treated Canadian patients who traveled here because of long wait times in their home country. He also said patients in the U.K. and Canada faced rationing of care and the denial or delay of treatment.

Theres some truth to Barrassos claims, according to a far-reaching report by the Commonwealth Fund. More Americans were able to get same-day care than Canadians. Americans lagged behind in after-hours care, but they fared much better than both Canadians and Britons for percentage of citizens who had to wait at least two months for a specialist appointment.

Currently, the U.S. spends about $3.2 trillion a year on health care  about 17 percent of the nations GDP, the most of any industrialized nation. It ranks last in a study of 18 leading nations in health care spending per capita, out-of-pocket spending per capita, spending on pharmaceuticals per capita and percentage of people who believe the health care system needs to be overhauled altogether.

The Commonwealth Fund ranked it last compared with several other industrialized nations and last or near last on access, administrative efficiency, equity and health care outcomes.

The other nations on the list all offer universal health care. The U.K. was at the top of the rankings.

According to most credible scholarship of the performance of international health systems, the U.S. among high-income countries is the worst-performing, said professor Steve Morgan, a health policy expert at the University of British Columbia.

He called claims that the Canadian and British systems were failing baseless. In the U.K., he said, health care was readily available and well integrated into local governments. He called the system a no-brainer in terms of its success and popularity.

Schneider said that if the U.K. and Canadian systems are failing, then the American system is as well. He added that just because the U.S. ranked last from his organizations surveys doesnt mean the system is necessarily poor.

If youre well insured, high-income, willing to pay out of pocket, you can get the best health care out of the world, he said. We have among the best specialist hospitals in the world, the science here is outstanding. What we have a hard time doing is doing it for all of our citizens and also doing it at an affordable price. The financial challenge for people is real.

Morgan praised Canadas system as well but acknowledged it isnt as integrated into society and lacks the quality of primary care seen in England and in some European nations. He agreed that there were wait times there, but said that 80 percent of the time, the wait was considered medically accessible. In high-priority situations, like those involving cancer patients, that number rises to nearly 100 percent and virtually instant.

Whats different, you have to recognize that theres no Canadian for whom financial barriers exist, Morgan said. Nobody is uninsured. Nobody gets into a wait list because of cost. Whereas if youre in America and youre uninsured, you dont bother getting into a wait list. Wait times are in essence infinite or too long to measure when you compare to systems you find abroad.

As for Barrassos statements concerning so-called medical tourism, when a patient leaves his or her country and travels elsewhere for care, theres little evidence it happens on any wide-scale basis, Morgan said.

Those events ... are so rare in number that theyre virtually uncountable, he said. It turns out theyre so infrequent, the best one can do is get an anecdote and not data.

Schneider said the criticisms of long wait times in the U.K. are based on information from 20 years ago, when the countrys National Health Service struggled. But now, he said, its reformed and is, in his organizations studies, the best system in the industrialized world.

They use their NHS to make sure that everyone has a certain basic level of access to services that are known to be effective, he said. We see that in our surveys. They also really level the playing field because they dont use copays or deductibles to ration care like we do in the U.S.

Impact unclear

Ladd said that if all people are able to get health insurance, theyre invariably going to use it. What that sort of shock would do to the system is unclear.

But, she added, this measure  or something similar  would theoretically eliminate all uncompensated care, which is treatment that is not paid for by patients and thus is absorbed by hospitals and in part passed on to consumers. Health officials in Wyoming have warned that uncompensated care saps their revenues and can contribute to slim margins.

Wyoming Medical Centers former CEO, Vickie Diamond, often warned of skyrocketing uncompensated care costs should the Affordable Care Act be rescinded. She had expressed no opinion on a single-payer system, and new CEO Michele Chulick declined to comment until she had more information.

For Barrasso  and Ladds employers  the price tag is a significant sticking point. Barrasso warned that if physicians are paid entirely through Medicare reimbursement rates  which are less than what hospitals and providers receive for treating insured patients  it could cause rural hospitals in Wyoming to shutter.

Ladd said she could see a case for businesses getting on board but said that theres also the possibility that the efficiencies such a bill might create wouldnt be enough to balance out the higher taxes theyre likely to pay to help fund the system.

Schneider said there isnt a barrier to implementing a universal or single-payer system in the U.S. (though, he said, the cost and disruption could be significant). He pointed to success in California, Minnesota and Massachusetts as evidence that it can work, potentially through the framework of existing law.

One can certainly imagine building on the (Affordable Care Act), modifying some of the elements that are still challenging and one can get to universal coverage, he said. That would be the American approach.
Four people died on Wyoming highways last week, according the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

Three of the four crashes were one-vehicle wrecks in which the vehicle ran off the road. None of the four wrecks took place in Natrona County. Two of the deceased were Wyomingites.

According to a highway patrol news release and online crash reports:

On Sept. 10, Hunter Stanley, 35, of Gillette ran off Interstate 90 near Gillette in a Subaru. The car rolled twice and Stanley, who was not wearing a seat belt, was thrown from the vehicle. He died in Campbell County Memorial Hospital two days later, as a result of injuries sustained in the wreck.

On Tuesday, James Watters, 45, of Montana, was driving south with an unidentified passenger on U.S. Highway 89 near Alpine, when his vehicle drifted off the road and hit a rock embankment. The vehicle rolled over and both Watters and the passenger were ejected. Watters died at the scene and the passenger was hospitalized with unspecified injuries. Neither of the two people involved was wearing seat belts. The highway patrol was investigating for drug and alcohol use.

On Thursday, Larry Martin, 55, of Missouri, was heading west on Interstate 80 near Lyman, when the Ford F-150 he was driving went into a spin. The pickup went down an embankment and rolled three times. Martin made it out of the truck on his own power and was taken to Evanston Regional Hospital before being flown to the University of Utah hospital, where he died.

On Friday, Patrick Cain, 57, of Wyoming, was headed south on Cherokee Road toward County Road 451 near Rawlins. He was not wearing a seat belt. His Dodge Ram 1500 pulled out onto the county road when it was hit by a speeding pickup. Cain died in Memorial Hospital of Carbon County.
JACKSON  A recent report says Jackson Hole lodging had about 98 percent occupancy on the day of the solar eclipse and the day before.

According to the recent Destimetrics report, the lodging occupancy reached 98.08 percent on Aug. 20, the day before the eclipse, and 97.57 percent on Aug. 21.

Chamber of Commerce President Anna Olson said occupancy stayed around 90 percent through Aug. 26. The average price for rooms was $405 per night during August.

Olson says the occupancy rate for the rest of August was in the high 80s up until the last week, which she thinks dipped because children returned to school.
LARAMIE  City of Laramie officials have met with the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees on the possibility of closing the stretch of 15th Street running through the UW campus.

In March, the state Legislature directed UW, in a footnote attached to the university's budget, to meet with city officials about the potential closure.

The legislation requires UW to respond to the Joint Appropriations Committee no later than Nov. 1.

But the trustees and Laramie Mayor Andi Summerville agreed starting the project will likely take much longer.

Summerville said compiling public opinion and ensuring all parties have a chance to comment will take some time.
The Metropolitan Education Commission will host a discussion on Wednesday, Sept. 20, about bonds and overrides proposed for Flowing Wells, Marana, Sunnyside, and Tucson Unified school districts, and about the Strong Start Tucson, the half-cent City of Tucson sales tax ballot proposal to fund pre-K education.

The event starts at 4:30 p.m. at Joel D. Valdez Main Library, in the lower level meeting room, 101 N. Stone Ave.

Mountain View grad gets Fort Hays awards

Jayce Cunha, a 2017 Mountain View High School graduate, received a $5,000 Fort Hays State University Arizona Award, a $1,500 Hays City Scholar Award and a $900 Academic Opportunity Award in criminal justice from Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas, for this academic year.

Cunha is majoring in criminal justice.

OV library group gives teachers book grants

The Books for Teachers program of the Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library is giving 500 teachers in 43 schools from five school districts in the Tucson area a private grant for books.

The programs emphasis is on schools with the Title 1 designation.

The Friends of the Oro Valley Library are working to change the deficit of fewer books in Arizona classrooms versus the national average. The donation is possible because of the books and money donated from the community, as well as the Friends of the Oro Valley Public Library, two book shops and online book sales.
The former head of a Tucson truck-driving school is facing 16 felony counts, accused of embezzling nearly $1 million from students and his ex-employer.

Robert Alan Knapp, fired in 2015 as director of HDS Truck Driving Institute, was indicted by a grand jury last month on 10 counts of bank fraud, five counts of aggravated identity theft and one count of federal student-aid fraud.

Knapp, 69, who ran the school for more than 10 years, pleaded not guilty at his Sept. 1 arraignment in U.S. District Court in Tucson.

He was assigned a court-appointed attorney after he said he couldnt afford a defense lawyer.

Witnesses interviewed by police said Knapp was a frequent gambler at area casinos.

One said Knapp confessed to him that he was having gambling problems, court records show.

Knapp, who made $74,000 a year as the schools director, is accused of intercepting checks and depositing them into a business bank account he opened behind the school owners back.

He oversaw both the Tucson school, at 6251 S. Wilmot Road, and a sister school in Phoenix.

Police became involved in late 2014, when a student from the Tucson school filed a fraud complaint with the Pima County Sheriffs Department, saying he hadnt received a federal student-loan check.

A sheriffs investigator traced the checks proceeds to the bank account Knapp set up, court records said.

The case, which is now under the purview of federal authorities, revealed a weakness in the trucking schools fraud-prevention measures, records show.

Knapp had wide-ranging financial authority that included approving student refund checks and disbursing incoming checks to intended recipients. Auditors typically warn against having one person in charge of multiple financial functions because it raises the risk for white-collar fraud.

In a related civil lawsuit, the schools owner is blaming accountants who audited the books for failing to sound an alarm about the situation.

The suit also names Wells Fargo bank as a defendant for allegedly allowing Knapp to deposit hundreds of checks that werent made out to him. The auditors and the bank deny wrongdoing.

The federal indictment said Knapp diverted more than $900,000 over a seven-year period. The civil case said total losses were $983,240.

The criminal case is scheduled for a jury trial on Oct. 11. The civil suit is slated for a jury trial next June.
U.S. Rep. Martha McSally, R-Arizona, has been asked to join an informal group of Republican congressional members working on border-security issues and a long-term fix to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, her office says.

McSally was asked by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan to join the group, as the Tucson Republican is the chairwoman of the Border and Maritime Security subcommittee and whose district includes 80 miles of U.S.-Mexico border, according to a news release from her office.

Over the past few weeks, McSally has repeatedly stated she believes it is the responsibility of Congress, not the president, to address the future of the DACA program, which allowed illegal immigrants who were brought here as children by their parents to be deferred from deportation proceedings. The program was started by ex-President Obama.

President Trump announced earlier this month he would end the program in six months. He later said he was fairly close to an agreement with congressional Democrats that would enshrine protections for the young immigrants, according to The Associated Press.

President Trump is right to call on Congress to act, and I believe this is a historic opportunity to bring clarity for the 800,000 individuals whose status in the United States is currently subject to the political winds of different administrations that come to power, McSally said in a statement. Earlier this month, McSally was part of a group of lawmakers who sent a letter to Ryan requesting that the House address DACA.
Editors note: Many readers, including local and native English teachers and parents, have expressed objections to a recent regulation by the Ho Chi Minh City education department, which includes a ban ongiving Western names to students and using music and smart boards as teaching tools.

In this opinion sent to Tuoi Tre News, local reader Sy Phu says the education department has made a trivial yet pointless request.

Read his view below and share yours with us in the comment box or mail it to ttn@tuoitre.com.vn.

So the Ho Chi Minh City education department has insisted that native English teachers refrain from using such audio-visual tools as cassette players, CD players, and smart boards to play music or videos for students during their lessons. But is it feasible to enforce such a ban?

If we put ourselves in the shoes of those who compose the regulations, we might somehow understand why they do so. If a school has to spend a great amount of money on hiring English-speaking teachers, it definitely should try to make the best use of them. Why should a school allow the highly paid teachers to do nothing but turn on a cassette or video player for students to watch through the class?

However, even if this is the case  when a native English teacher is too lazy to communicate with his/her students  it remains a question of whether banning them from using the audio-visual tools will effectively resolve the problem.

The fear of teachers who do nothing but play CDs is justified, given that not all native English teachers have an adequate work ethic. However, this is a problem between teachers and students, not something that needs controlling by the state.

For young adult students, we can train them to know how to evaluate whether a native teacher satisfies their needs after a class. We should make it a habit for students to report or complain if their teachers make them watch movie after movie in their class. The school managers will know what to do after receiving such reports.

For younger students, say primary students, we cannot expect them to make such a complaint. However, school managers are still able to understand the class quality, as native English teachers are normally assisted by a local during their lesson.

A school with good management is one that knows how to effectively evaluate the quality of its native English teachers through various measures, not through a dont do this style ban.

After all, it is the school managers who decide to hire those English-speaking teachers, and it is parents who pay for them. No state capital is used.

Prohibiting the use of cassettes or CD players is not a professional guideline [as the education department claims it to be]. It is an overcautious and trivial intervention which in the end leads nowhere.
A top Vietnamese model has been crowned the winner of the Futurista  Universe Online photo contest held to promote the upcoming 2017 Miss Universe Vietnam beauty pageant.

Launched in April, the contest called for fans to vote for their favorite photos of Miss Universe Vietnam contestants uploaded on the competitions official Facebook page.

Scores were calculated based on the number of likes, comments and shares that the photos received, results of which were independent from the main event.

Mau Thi Thanh Thuy, runner-up of the Futurista  Universe Online photo contest. Photo: Miss Universe Vietnam

Hoang Thuy was announced the winner on Friday with nearly 135,000 likes, 112,000 comments and 24,700 shares on her photo, and received a cash prize of VND10 million (US$440).

Huynh Thi Cam Tien and Mau Thi Thanh Thuy shared the second place, each earning VND5 million ($220) in cash and a voucher to travel to the Central Highlands city of Da Lat.

Huynh Thi Cam Tien, runner-up of the Futurista  Universe Online photo contest. Photo: Miss Universe Vietnam

Thuy, 25, was the winner of cycle 2 of Vietnams Next Top Model reality television show, competed by aspiring models seeking to launch their career in the modeling industry.

According to the organizers of Miss Universe Vietnam, the final round of this years competition will run from November 5 to December 2 in south-central Khanh Hoa Province.

The finale night will be organized at the Universe Crown Convention Center at the Diamond Bay Resort in Khanh Hoas Nha Trang City, and broadcast live on national television.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue is on a visit to Belgium to tighten the two counties relationship and seek further investment from Belgian businesses.

At the invitation of the Belgian government and leaders of the European Union, the Vietnamese deputy premier has led a delegation of high-ranking officials on a business trip to the European nation scheduled for September 15 to 19, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

Within the framework of his trip, Hue visited several economic units in the northern cities of Antwerp and Ostend on Sunday.

Speaking during a meeting at the headquarters of Rent-A-Port, an engineering and investment company in Antwerp, the leader stressed that Vietnam always creates favorable conditions for Rent-A-Port, and foreign businesses in general, to operate in the country.

The Belgian firm has been cooperating with the administration in the northern Vietnamese city of Hai Phong in developing the Dinh Vu Industrial Park, which has been considered one of the most successful projects in the northern region.

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue (L) gifts Mayor Johan Vande Lanotte during their meeting in Ostend, Belgium. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

Hue encouraged the company to further invest in his home country in wind and solar energy projects.Rent-A-Port is expected to focus on establishing several industrial zones in Hai Phong and northern Quang Ninh Province, which will specialize in high-tech and renewable energy.

In Ostend, the deputy premier attended a party hosted by Mayor Johan Vande Lanotte, during which the two officials discussed the Vietnam-Belgium relationship.

Deputy PM Hue called on Mayor Lanotte to support the ratification of the EU- Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.

On the evening of the same day, Hue and his delegation visited the Embassy of Vietnam in Belgium and the Vietnamese community in the European country.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Multiple officers from a detention facility in Hanoi have been suspended from duty following the prison break of two death-row inmates earlier this month who were re-captured on the weekend.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Dinh Trong Hai, supervisor of the T16 detention center in the capitals rural Thanh Oai District, along with several of his deputies and officers have been temporarily banned from working while their responsibility for the escape is reviewed.

A source close to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper said that over 10 people have been subject to the suspension following a decision of the Ministry of Public Security on Sunday.

According to leaders of the ministry, the officers responsible will be strictly sanctioned once results of the investigation are in.

An official from the Ministry of Public Security has taken over as the new supervisor of the detention facility during the probe.

The officers have been accused of negligence that led to the September 10 escape of two inmates, Le Van Tho and Nguyen Van Tinh, who had both been sentenced to death for multiple offenses.

Tinh, 28, was sentenced to death by the Peoples Court of Hanoi in April for his involvement in a narcotics ring.

His previous offenses included harboring or consuming property acquired through the commission of crime by others.

Tho, 37, received the death penalty in May when the Peoples Court of Ha Nam Province in northern Vietnam found him guilty of dealing in narcotics, murder, and property appropriation.

His previous convictions included murder, kidnapping for ransom, illegal use of military firearms, bribery, robbery, and property appropriation.

The two had been held in the same solitary confinement at the T16 detention center while awaiting execution.

They were discovered missing from their cell on September 10.

Following relentless search efforts, officers were able to arrest Tho on Saturday in the northern province of Hai Duong, and Tinh on Sunday in northern Hoa Binh Province.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
The Central Inspection Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam has announced several violations committed by the secretary of the central city of Da Nang, including using invalid degrees, and accepting cars and houses as gifts from local businesses.

During its 17th meeting from September 13 to 16 in Hanoi, the committee reached a conclusion regarding multiple offenses of Nguyen Xuan Anh, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Peoples Council in Da Nang.

One of Anhs violations was related to the declaration of illegitimate degrees.

Anh studied for a bachelors degree in business administration at Humber College, Canada, from February 1995 to September 1998, according to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspapers findings.

Records showed that the Da Nang leader enrolled in a masters program in business administration at the United States California Southern University from March 2001 to September 2002.

From March 2005 to December 2006, Anh completed a doctorate program and earned a PhD in business administration from the same university.

In October 2007, the Southern California University for Professional Studies (SCUPS) was renamed California Southern University, whose degrees are not recognized by the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training.

This means that Anhs masters and PhD degrees are not valid in the Southeast Asian country.

In 2016, the office of the Da Nang Party Committee received a Toyota Avalon, worth about VND1.3 billion (US$ 57,194) from Minh Hung Phat, a local company, which was later used for Secretary Anhs commute to work.

Following fierce reactions from the media and public, as well as in accordance with a directive from Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, the automobile was returned to Minh Hung Phat in March 2017.

Anh, as a leader, is also responsible for multiple wrongdoings committed by the standing board of the Da Nang Party Committee of the 2015-20 term, namely rotating and appointing some officials against the Partys regulations.

The board made several unauthorized decisions, allowing businesses to use and implement projects on public land.

The lax management and supervision of the municipal Party Committee regarding land and urban order has also resulted in various negativities, upsetting local residents.

The Central Inspection Committee considered that the offenses are serious and affect the trust of the people, requiring disciplinary actions to follow.

Born on January 1, 1976, Anh was elected as Secretary of the Da Nang Party Committee for the 2015-2020 period in October 2015.

He also became Chairman of the municipal Peoples Council for the same term in June 2016.

The citys leader has been famous for his statements against the abuse of authority, wastefulness, and corruption among officials.

The Central Inspection Committee has said that Huynh Duc Tho, Chairman of the Da Nang Peoples Committee, is also to blame for the wrongdoings at the standing board in the 2015-2020 tenure. Tho is also Deputy Secrectary of the Da Nang Party Committee. As the head of the Peoples Committee, Tho has to be held chiefly accountable for violations in land and urban order management, inspectors said in their conclusion. He was wrong in some other matters related to personnel, they said, adding that Tho has to be disciplined considering the severity of his wrongdoings.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Next week SBS VICELAND screens The Real True Detective a doco which details real events in Ponchatoula, Louisiana that echo the fictional incidents of HBOs drama, True Detective.

Ten years ago, the town of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, was traumatised when a local churchs secret Satan worship, ritualised child abuse, and animal sacrifices came to light. Rust Cohle may be a fictional character, and time may not really be a flat circle, but that sounds an awful lot like the events of the first season of HBOs hit True Detective.

Gianna Toboni heads to Ponchatoula to meet Stuart Murphy and Tom Tedder, two law enforcement officials who helped put these terrible, true events in Ponchatoulas rear view mirror.

Tuesday, 26 September at 8.30pm on SBS VICELAND
WIN Corp mogul Bruce Gordon has lost a crucial court challenge in the battle for TEN with the NSW Supreme Court today ruling in favour of administrators KordaMentha.

Gordon, through his companies WIN Corporation and Birketu, had hoped to stop a creditors meeting taking place tomorrow, claiming KordaMentha failed to give creditors vital information about his joint bid with Lachlan Murdoch.

But the court ruled KordaMentha had provided enough information as well as satisfactory reasons for backing CBS.

Late last week the senate voted to pass media reforms legislation but Fairfax reports Justice Black said he had not had regard to commercial developments which may have occurred after the hearing was completed and judgment reserved because the parties did not seek to have a further hearing.

While that approach may seem artificial, it reflects the fundamental proposition that a court must reach its decision on the evidence led by the parties at the hearing before it, he said.

Justice Black said the question for the court was not, and should not be, which of any competing commercial proposals put by interested parties would be most advantageous to the creditors of the TEN Group companies including employees and shareholders.

That is a matter properly left for their decision, he said.

A spokesman for KordaMentha said the creditors meeting would go ahead tomorrow.

Lachlan Murdoch and Gordon submitted a revised offer for the network on Friday, which they hope will be put to creditors tomorrow.
The Today show heads off on its next We Love Australia (aka the East Coast) jaunt next week, despite Karl Stefanovic announcing he would boycott any Logie Awards not held in Melbourne.

Lisa Wilkinson said: We always love getting out of the studio and into the very places that make Australia the great country it is. Its such a fantastic time of the year to get out and explore, and although Im looking forward to seeing all the diverse towns and cities, Im looking very forward to enjoying a sneaky Yarra Valley pinot.

Karl Stefanovic said: We know how good Australia is, but seriously, how good is Australia! Sun, beaches, wine, pizza, and five very different places that sum up the spirit of our great country. Cant wait to hit the road and meet more of our amazing viewers. We want everybody to join us  and the drinks are on Dickie!

Karl, Lisa, Richard, Sylvia and Natalia will kick off the week in Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, where Karl will take on the ultimate dare  bungy jumping in the rainforest canopy. Lisa and Sylvia jet-ski with crocodiles, and you cant say youve visited Queensland without witnessing a Cane Toad race!

The team will then travel down the beautiful Queensland coast to the historical town of 1770 near Gladstone. Dog trainer Chris de Aboitiz will have a crack at breaking a World Record by paddling his stand-up paddleboard with 26 dogs. Karl and Dickie explore the area by taking to the streets on Harley inspired motorbikes, and theyll also try their hand at offshore fishing.

On Wednesday, the gang is off to Griffith in the scenic NSW Riverina. Known as the food bowl of Australia, well take viewers on a tour of the region including into one of the worlds most successful wineries, Casella Winery; an almond farm; feeding the lions at the Altina Wildlife Park, and well celebrate all things Italian with a street festival and make a giant pizza.

From the food bowl to one of Australias premier wine regions, the gang will experience the wonders of the Yarra Valley in Victoria. From the breathtaking views at Lake Mountain to the unforgettable animal encounters at Healesville Sanctuary, well be discovering everything the region has to offer, live from Levantine Estate in the heart of Victorias wine country.

Find out if Karl and Lisa can handle the heat in the kitchen at the hatted Ezard restaurant, there will be a live performance from Kate Ceberano, an interview with comedy legend Michael Veitch.

Today will end the week in the stunning coastal holiday region of Tweed Valley, on the NSW far north coast. Karl, Lisa and Richard will be live from the Tweed Regional Gallery, while we cross to Melbourne for the latest on the footy finals. With special guests including local actor Nicholas Hamilton, currently starring in Hollywood thriller IT, the gang will be exploring the best of what the region has to offer. Dickie helps out at a kids art workshop and local circus, while Karl and Lisa learn the art of pottery.

Monday, September 25  Cairns, Qld

Tuesday, September 26  1770, Qld

Wednesday, September 27  Griffith, NSW

Thursday, September 28  Yarra Valley, Vic

Friday, September 29  Tweed Valley, NSW

5:30am weekdays on Nine.
Help India!

Madrid, (IANS): Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) or Doctors Without Borders on Monday urged Myanmar to grant international humanitarian organisations unrestricted and independent access to the conflict-torn Rakhine state to enable provision of humanitarian assistance to the hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people.

The MSF appeal comes amid an ongoing military offensive in Rakhine that was launched on August 25 after the Arakan Rohingya Resistance Army (ARSA) mounted fresh attacks on multiple government posts in the region that led to over 400,000 Rohingyas fleeing to neighbouring Bangladesh.

Support TwoCircles



The remaining population in northern Rakhine, thought to be hundreds of thousands of people, is without any meaningful form of humanitarian assistance, the MSF was quoted as saying in a statement by Efe news.

According to the statement, in central Rakhine, around 120,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) remain in camps where they are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for their survival, owing to restrictions on their movements.

The statement added that MSF used to provide mobile clinics in several of these camps and villages but international staff have not been granted travel authorisations to visit the health facilities since the end of August, whilst national staff have been too afraid to go to work following remarks by Myanmar officials accusing NGOs of colluding with ARSA.

Moreover, according to Benoit De Gryse, MSFs operations manager for Myanmar, the governments desire to exclusively provide humanitarian assistance in Rakhine is likely to result in even more severe administrative and access constraints than ever.

The Army offensive in Rakhine has been condemned globally by human rights organisations.

Rohingyas are not recognised as citizens by Myanmar although more than a million of them have lived in the country through generations, facing growing discrimination, including severe restrictions on their freedom of movement, following a sectarian conflict in 2012 that killed at least 160 people, and displaced nearly 120,000.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Council is set to discuss human rights violations in Myanmar and determine if an ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya minority is underway in the country.
Help India!

By TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter

Srinagar: Demands for an explanation from National Investigation Agency over the arrest of Kashmiri photojournalist Kamran Yousuf have grown louder, with the Press Council of India issuing notices to DG NIA, J&K government Chief Secretary and others state officials.

Support TwoCircles



The letter addressed to DG NIA, J&K government Chief Secretary and others said that the matter is prima facie concerned with the freedom of press in the country.

The Press Council of India has viewed the incident (arrest of Kamran Yousuf) with concern and taken the suo moto cognisance of the matter under Regulation 13 of the Press Council (procedure for inquiry) Regulation, 1979, reads the notice.

Reply statement to this notice may please be filed within two weeks from the date of receipt of this letter to enable the further processing of the matter, the notice said.

The Patiala house court in New Delhi on Saturday, September 16 extended the NIA custody of Yousuf by four days. The duo were produced before the Patiala House Court as their 10 days police custody had ended.The NIA had sought another seven days remand, however, the court extended their remand only for four days.

Kashmir Editors Guild (KEG), the editors body of Kashmir, has also expressed serious concern over the continuous detention of the photographer.

A spokesperson of the KEG said the agency had arrested Kamran Yousuf without spelling out the reasons and that doesnt gel with the set legal norms prevalent in any democratic setup.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has also asked for immediate release of the photojournalist.

Yousufs photographs have been published in the Greater Kashmir, a local English-language daily, and Munsif TV, an English-language news channel, said the journalists grandfather, Ganai to CPJ. Arshad Kaloo, a senior editor at the Greater Kashmir, said Yousuf was a freelance journalist, but declined to comment further to CPJ, it said on its website.

Indian authorities must stop trying to crush the independent press in the Jammu and Kashmir region, said CPJ Deputy Executive Director Robert Mahoney from New York. Authorities should immediately release Kamran Yousuf.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has termed the move by the central agency an attempt to intimidate the journalist community.

Stating that photojournalists are required as part of their professional duty to be present at the places of protests and sit-ins and take photographs of these incidents, and such presence cannot be termed as participation in the incidents, the IFJ said, the arrest and detainment of freelance photojournalist Kamran Yusuf by the National Investigation Agency in Kashmir, India without formal charges is an attempt to intimidate the journalist community.

Seeking Yusufs immediate release, the journalists body further urged the Centre to ensure that the power granted to agencies, such as the NIA, is not misused against journalists.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday, September 5 arrested Kamran Yusuf on allegations of instigating stone pelting.

Yusuf is a resident of volatile Pulwama district in South Kashmir and was well known among his peers for covering conflict and funerals of militants. He was a regular contributor to newspaper Greater Kashmir.

The arrest comes after NIA announced that it has identified 117 Kashmiris who it believes have been spreading unrest in the Valley. As part of its investigation, the group had identified 6,386 phone numbers and 79 WhatsApp groups who allegedly manage the stone-pelting incidents.

Importantly, the NIA is probing the terror funding case against Kashmiri separatists and has arrested many separatist leaders and workers in this regard.

Related:

Kashmiri Journalists term arrest of photojournalist Kamran Yusuf by NIA as harassment

The worrying silence of Greater Kashmir and the Editors body on the arrest of a Kashmiri photojournalist
Love him or hate him, Boris Johnson has just provided the British people with a bold and brilliant vision for a post-Brexit Britain. Since he started his journalism career, he has adopted different postures on this country's EU membership. In the early 1990s, he reported that Brussels dictates the size of bananas and almost backed the Stronger In campaign last year. Either way, his journey to supporting the UK's EU withdrawal has been a long and complicated one.

His 10-point plan which he outlined in The Daily Telegraph provides a clear outline of what he wants the Government to achieve once Brexit becomes a reality.

Many of his colleagues have accused him of directly challenging the Prime Minister and others have said he is taking a back-seat. But it is about time someone in the Cabinet provided an idea of what the Conservatives want to achieve in the future.

His aims are consistent with what most Vote Leave campaigners told voters would happen should they opt for Brexit. Considering the Government has been attacked for not immediately funding the NHS with an extra 350 million a week, Mr. Johnson has brought that pledge back to life. Whether you believe the health service deserves that additional cash, the Foreign Secretary deserves credit for prioritising that promise.

Mr. Johnson intends to implement a sensible immigration system

He has stressed the UK will not remain a member of the Single Market, a possibility that should not even have been considered after June 23rd last year. Mr. Johnson intends to implement a sensible immigration system, implying he wants to introduce a skills-based immigration system, another crucial Vote Leave aim.

Mr. Johnson's plans to reform the tax system could see the UK mimic Singapore's low tax, low regulation economy. This would ensure Britain becomes an attractive place to do business. Like Singapore, this country would become a champion of free trade and have close links with Commonwealth nations, thereby making Brexit a success if the former Mayor of London's vision is implemented by the current Government.

He also intends to provide Britain with the infrastructure that will make it the most dynamic economy in Europe and invest in the UK's science industry to accelerate this sector's gene therapy research.

This is an outstanding plan

The only concerning part of his vision is placing a tax on foreign buyers in London. This is not the answer to solving the housing crisis and investors can still provide wealth and jobs to the nation's capital.

Regardless, this is an outstanding plan for this country and the rest of the Government would be wise to adopt it.
Laura McAllister, a professor of public policy at Cardiff University, seems to comprehend why so many Welsh voters opted for Brexit during last year's EU referendum as opposed to Plaid Cymru and Labour. She told The Daily Express that when a family is living in poverty or experiencing homelessness, money spent on vanity projects like statues will not alleviate their situation. She is correct.

When Wales overwhelmingly voted for Brexit last year, the result surprised many commentators. That is because this nation receives substantial funding from the EU.

In numerous places you visit there, Brussels proudly claims to have sponsored numerous projects that have brought prosperity to the region as part of their propaganda spree to increase EU support. One source informed Blasting News that Brussels' cash failed to prevent their primary and secondary school from being dissolved. Instead, it was used to merge the two places into one failing super-school. This proves EU grants are not being spent properly.

This area has been receiving Brussels' cash for years and it has had no impact

Geraint Davies, the Labour MP for Swansea West, is blaming the Brexit divorce bill for causing a loss of jobs in Wales. The Government does not owe Brussels a penny, that much is clear.

But to blame the settlement fee on potential unemployment shows the Swansea West MP is attempting to persuade Welsh voters that leaving the EU is not worth sacrificing the electrification of the railway line and an electricity-generating tidal lagoon. Swansea West and the Welsh Valleys passed the criteria for EU funding this year because of its extreme poverty.

This area has been receiving Brussels' cash for years and it has had no impact.

Brits voted to take back control so that taxpayers' money that goes towards the EU's budget can be returned to Westminster

This is a desperate attack from Labour to blame Brexit for Wales's misfortunes. Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood waded into this debate by accusing the Government of betraying Welsh voters.

What they both fail to understand is that Brits voted to take back control so that taxpayers' money that goes towards the EU's budget can be returned to Westminster. That way, they can invest it on projects that the elected government of the day deems best to spend the cash on. And if electors do not support the spending decisions of that administration, they can remove them during a general election. That is not possible whilst this country is a member of the trading bloc that splashes euros on schemes that fail to achieve anything.

It is clear both Labour and Plaid Cymru have failed to learn any lessons from Brexit. Brussels' spending has done nothing to curb poverty. Welsh taxpayers deserve better.
Now let me see if I understand this country's official response to the terror imposed on us by murdering Islamic terrorists.

We raise the terror level to critical, meaning another bloodthirsty attempt to massacre us is believed to be imminent. We draft in troops with guns but leave them guarding vulnerable facilities. We don't require all Police Officers to carry guns. We tell the public to remain calm yet vigilant. The mayor of London spouts more 'tut tut' about remaining united. Worst of all when we do catch these toxic murderers alive we treat them just the same way as we would have before they declared war on us and committed five successful terrorist offences this yea - killing and maiming dozens, including young children and police officers protecting us.

I feared that was the gist of it.

Mirth and opportunity for these loathsome people

How the terrorist roar with laughter and prepare ever more blood-curdling attacks with a feeling of impunity. The gloves must come off. The misguided priority of not upsetting people or sinking to be as bad as they are is being pedalled desperately by Liberals. However, it often damages the people they are trying to protect. An ordinary Muslim wants these people captured and properly punished as much as anyone else. The scum are making their lives harder and they are likely to be caught up in the consequences of radical slaughter. Additionally it is feeding the narrative that sensitivity to ordinary Muslims is protecting murdering scum from facing the full capability of the security and intelligence forces.

This reduces the sympathy towards them from many of the general population.

Introduce laws filled with real justice

We should not allow our hands to be tied. Now we are at level five, the maximum on the terror scale. In fact, way before this situation was reached, actions targeted at Islamic Jihadists and their sympathisers should have been announced.

Surveillance of those suspected of these terrorist crimes should be sweeping and override concerns about privacy. Two judges should look at evidence against all the people on MI5 watch lists. If they conclude that they are likely, on the balance of probability, to pose a threat they should be deported if they have a foreign or dual nationality.

They should be incarcerated if they don't (and it wouldn't hurt if we lost the key in the wild Tiger enclosure). Anyone leaving to fight in Syria or Iraq or on any spurious excuse that is most likely to be a cover for this activity should not be allowed back into the country.

Laws should be introduced where anyone found guilty of actually perpetrating or attempting to perpetrate terror crimes and anyone helping or colluding with them should face either life imprisonment with no chance of parole or execution. We are not going to persuade murdering scum like these to abandon their beliefs and no one will be safe when they are again free. The more mentally able of the two wretches who murdered Lee Rigby is already suing us for who knows what, paid for by we taxpayers.

He is will not be deterred by a Liberal chatting with him. His actions can only sensibly be met with execution. When fighting these people in their lairs or at the scenes of their outrages, our elite fighting troops should be allowed to do their duty. The aim should not be to administer a reasonable amount of force or concern themselves with the wellbeing of savages, but to overwhelm them, knowing they will be fully supported by everyone.

Make it difficult for these brutes at every turn

The lie that Europe will be safer if we are tolerant of murdering fanatics has been proven to be ridiculous. Just take a glance at the map above. Preventing religion-crazed murderers from entering Europe should be done at all costs.

The EU won't allow that and won't allow reasonable responses to catch these people or punish them properly when they are caught. These are among the many reasons that the majority of people from the UK voted to leave that craven organisation.

We have to stand up for our own lifestyle. It is supposed that we don't want our society to change - to become easier to enter and therefore we are ruthless in dealing with people. This is of hateful intent which is the lie the left want accepted so that their incoherent babble is allowed to continue without a shred of credibility. ISIS have been expecting this reaction for years and are continuing to make hay before it arrives.

The public know that fighting fire with fire and eliminating these people is the answer.

In Syria and Iraq ISIS are being destroyed. The gains have not come from talking or compromise but by the USA and Russia annihilating them. They have sent their murdering acolytes to the west now and they will only be defeated in the same resolute way.
A Labour MP has expressed his concern that towns in Wales could suffer substantial job losses to pay for the Brexit divorce bill.

Speaking exclusively to the BBC, Geraint Davies, the Labour MP for Swansea West, said that two projects in Swansea and the Welsh Valleys, which could provide his region with hundreds of jobs, may be sacrificed to pay for the 50 billion exit bill.

He told The World This Weekend that these projects will be cancelled because Theresa May and Philip Hammond have committed the Government to paying the 50 billion fee in order to ensure the UK leaves the European Union (EU).

Mr. Davies said the Government will cut Welsh funding because they cannot afford to pay the sum.

The price they will have to pay to leave the EU

Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood weighed into the debate, accusing the Government of betraying Welsh voters who overwhelmingly voted for Brexit to take back control. She said reducing the amount of government investment in Wales is the price they will have to pay to leave the EU.

This news comes as Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson sparked Conservative infighting by publishing his Brexit vision in The Daily Telegraph, outlining that he would not pay the settlement fee.

Swansea West and the Welsh Valleys was the only area in the UK that met the criteria for EU funding as it is one of the poorest places in Europe.

Many people did not believe the funding made a significant difference to their communities

Laura McAllister, professor of public policy at Cardiff University, said that Welsh voters did not make the wrong choice in June last year. She said that Wales receives 680 million a year from Brussels, but many people did not believe the funding made a significant difference to their communities.

The Cardiff University professor attacked the EU for wasting the money on statues and vanity projects, thereby angering people who experience extreme poverty and homelessness.

Over the weekend, Mr. Johnson was forced to deny that he is challenging the Prime Minister by outlining his own post-Brexit vision for Britain. Allies to the Foreign Secretary said he was laying out what needs to be done to ensure leaving the EU runs smoothly, adding he believes Theresa May is the right person to complete the job.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson tweeted that the piece he wrote was poor timing when terrorist attacks had taken place earlier in the week.

Will Tanner, a former adviser to Mrs May, called the article "disloyal." Specifying the claim that the former Mayor of London would provide the NHS with 350 million a week, he tweeted that whilst the Prime Minister had just raised the terror threat, the guy who intends to replace her pledges to provide the health service with extra money.

Sir Craig Oliver, former director of communications at Downing Street for David Cameron, told LBC Radio Boris's article would be viewed as a direct challenge to the Tory leader.

She accused the former Mayor of London of back-seat driving, but said she expected nothing less from him

With the Foreign Secretary's refusal to pay the settlement fee causing a stir in the Cabinet, Home Secretary Amber Rudd appeared on The Andrew Marr Show yesterday to play down the idea that Mr. Johnson was challenging the Prime Minister with a leadership bid. She accused the former Mayor of London of back-seat driving, but said she expected nothing less from him.

Mr. Marr quizzed her on comments she made about Mr. Johnson in the past, like when Ms Rudd said he is the life and soul of the party, but not someone she would want to catch a taxi home with. She replied that she does not want him managing the Brexit process.

She stressed her confidence that the Cabinet and the Government supports Theresa May and insisted once the UK leaves the trading bloc, Britain will aim to form friendships with European nations and other countries like America.

During the EU Referendum last year, 62 per cent of Swansea and the Welsh Valleys' electors voted for Brexit.
While the world is going more global and Freedom Of Speech and individuality is becoming even more important with each passing day, Germans will have to follow new strict rules while posting any online content. Starting from October 2017, a new law which imposes huge fines on people using illegal content or Hate speech online is coming into existence. The law called 'Netzwerkdurchsetzungsgesetz  NetzDG' will monitor social media networking sites and require they pull down what they assess as objectionable and hateful content within 24 hours of being identified and reported.

For content which is not necessarily hateful but violates the law slightly, Facebook and other such sites will have seven days to decide their action on the content.

Default in following the new law will result in a fine up to 50m

The most interesting and shocking aspect is the amount of fine that will be applicable if the objectionable and hateful content is not pulled down in the provided time frame. A fine up to 50m can be ordered by the law and other legal proceedings will follow. To make matters worse, the German law has already inspired a similar law in Russia.

Online speech laws get tighter in Germany

While the law is said to change the rules and regulations and also the fines for default with regards to hate speeches online, it will not change the basic definition of hate speech in Germany.

Germany currently bans usage of certain words which are allowed in other countries, e.g. Nazi symbols are banned and not allowed to be used, flags and other symbols of some extremists groups are also not allowed to be used.

As expected, a wide variety of people have opposed the new law and Facebook has also displayed its disagreement.

The United Nations has also warned the German government about the possible drastic and negative consequences of the law.

We will have to wait and watch as to exactly how the law unfolds in October and what effects it actually has on online freedom of speech. Since there is already increasing levels of opposition to the new law, it is expected it will see Germans declaring their vision of freedom and their disagreement to the new law strongly.

As there are a lot of false information and news being forwarded through social media, there are sections of the German society which are supporting the law and agreeing with its aim in making social media websites more responsible.
Donald Trump is set to appear at the United Nations General Assembly on Monday, the media is sure to focus on the president as he makes his first appearance at the event since taking office earlier this year. After Presidential Counsel Kellyanne Conway spoke about Trump's trip during an interview on Fox News, she was quickly met with trolling on social media.

Conway on Trump

The election of Donald Trump caught many by surprise, and not just in the United States. Trump's victory over Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton has been regarded as one of the biggest political upsets in recent memory, which sent shock-waves throughout the entire world.

In the nine months since taking office, the former host of "The Apprentice" has created a constant stream of controversy that follows him no matter where he goes. Whether it's his questionable rhetoric and social media habits, the ongoing Russian scandal, the in-fighting with his own Republican Party, or battles with Democrats, the billionaire real estate mogul can't seem to shake off what is taking place in Washington. On Monday, Trump is set to make an appearance art the General Assembly, with all eyes will be glued wondering what the United States president might say. Elaborating on the issue was Kellyanne Conway during a September 17 interview on Fox News.

Joining Fox News for an interview on Sunday morning was Kellyanne Conway who continued her defense of Donald Trump, while claiming the president will promote "peace" at the General Assembly.

"This country wants a leader who is tough on terrorism, is not going to coddle them. Who is not gonna apologize for America," Conway said. "You're gonna see that through President Trump's leadership at the United Nations General Assembly this week as well," she continued. "He will be promoting peace. He will be promoting prosperity.

And the president will be promoting sovereignty and accountability," Conway concluded.

.@KellyannePolls: "This is not a president who will apologize for America." pic.twitter.com/a0IP1yQr7Y  Fox News (@FoxNews) September 17, 2017

Twitter reacts

Once the Fox News interview became available online, Kellyanne Conway quickly tweeted out a clip to her followers, which was met by an onslaught of backlash from her critics.

"He won't apologize for anything he says or does. But yet, he demands apologies from others for the slightest criticism," one Twitter user wrote, before calling Donald Trump a "snowflake."

We don't want him to apologize FOR America we EXPECT him to apologize TO America  GrandJuryTime!$$ (@jimhollo) September 17, 2017

Get off the apology wagon and grow up. His inner circle is so caught up in his propaganda they can't see past it.  akapatrick (@akapatrick) September 17, 2017

He's a white supremacist who just condoned violence against women. Americans have to apologize for him  #ACAEnrollNov1-Dec15 (@octoberskeye) September 17, 2017

"No but he should apologize TO America. And our allies and a ton of women he sexually assaulted &charities he never gave $ to after promising," another tweet read.

"Get off the apology wagon and grow up. His inner circle is so caught up in his propaganda they can't see past it," an additional social media user noted.

No but he should apologize TO America. And our allies and a ton of women he sexually assaulted &charities he never gave $ to after promising  drea (@doctoreama) September 17, 2017

Can he start by apologizing "to" America?  Carmen (@Carmen50) September 17, 2017

"We don't want him to apologize FOR America we EXPECT him to apologize TO America," yet another tweet added. The backlash continued as Donald Trump's critics appear ready to hit back once he appears at the General Assembly later this week.
As reported in a recent article by Politico titled: "GOP split over fixing or gutting Obamacare as deadline looms," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell was conflicted with which steps to take to legislate for or against Obamacare. It is otherwise known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the deadline is before September 30, when procedural requirements under the rules of reconciliation expire. As some Republicans took the lead to try and shore up insurers that are under the ACA, others tried to make a case for a block grant approach that would replace certain parts of the ACA they expect to repeal.

Getting McCain on board

Those senators, Lindsey Graham (SC) and Bill Cassidy (LA) announced their block grant plan during a news conference last Wednesday. The block grant approach was originally pitched by Sen. Lindsey Graham in July which had immediate support from Cassidy. The growing number of supporters behind the Graham-Cassidy effort felt that they had another shot at repealing the ACA. The group, which also included Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), believed last week that John McCain (R-AZ) might also be on board to support the bill.

McCain was one the reason why the last skinny repeal bill effort failed to pass when he made dramatic thumbs down vote in front of McConnell on the Senate floor. Sen.

Chris Murphy (D-CT) expressed doubt that McCain would support Graham's block grant bill, saying that Sen. Alexander Lamar (R-TN) had already restored regular order in the Senate that McCain demanded in July, by working together with Democrats to fix Obamacare.

Murphy further questioned why McCain would vote for a block grant bill when the "regular order" that he wanted was literally playing out in front of him.

Sen. Murphy said that it would make no sense for McCain to short-circuit a bill and undercut Alexander. Murphy was referring to the fact that the last attempts to repeal the bill were being rushed which McCain didn't like. This was also around the time that the Arizona senator's unexpected absence from the Senate impacted a scheduled vote.

McCain supports bipartisanship

The Arizona senator required emergency surgery back in July which turned out be a diagnosis of terminal brain cancer. McCain would return to Congress to have the vote but not before he made a statement asking for bipartisanship. Given those events, the vote for the then-"skinny repeal" bill was seen by many, especially McCain, as rushed. Senate Republicans wanting to go for another shot at their repeal effort are also under pressure from the Trump administration which cares little to nothing about congressional legislation and just wants a "win".

Those lawmakers believe they might have a chance with their repeal bill as soon as the Senate passes a defense bill before their end-of-month window closes.

Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) has already said: "I don't see it" when talking about the chances of the block grant bill passing. It would appear that Sen. Murphy might have read McCain correctly, as Sen. McCain was on Face the Nation on Sunday where he said he would not support the Graham-Cassidy bill, preferring bipartisanship. In a recent interview on Fox News last Wednesday, Sen. Graham said that his block grant proposal was the last and best hope to repeal Obamacare.

Last week, McConnell asked the Congressional Budget Office to score Graham's bill which would be acceptable to McCain if there was more time before the deadline. An obvious similarity with Murphy's suggestion is that McCain might very well consider this new effort also rushed.

Here is McCain's interview with Face the Nation. He starts talking about bipartisanship at 5:57.
One of the biggest supporters of Donald Trump has been conservative author Ann Coulter. While that was the case during the election, Coulter has appeared to have jumped off the Trump train and is not holding back her frustrations with the president.

Coulter on Trump

Not long after Donald Trump kicked off his campaign for president in the summer of 2015, it became clear that his run for office would be unlike any in history. Trump's remarks during his announcement for president came under fire when he labeled illegal immigrants from Mexico as "rapists" and "murderers," which drew a line in the sand for those who would support or oppose him.

Though the former host of "The Apprentice" made many enemies in the majority of the mainstream media and in Hollywood, those on the far-right made sure to flock to his side, pushing back against the political left and establishment Republicans. One name that was one of the most vocal in her support was Ann Coulter, who went as far as publishing a book titled "In Trump We Trust," which was released during the 2016 presidential election. Despite this, Coulter has been highly critical of Trump during his short time in office, which continued during a scathing tweetstorm on September 17.

The 1 fact (before DACA betrayal) that made die-hard Trump voters hate him: White Hous full of Goldman Sachs bankers https://t.co/Q7GgCOKsp7 https://t.co/yj4zinUwKy  Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 17, 2017

Taking to her Twitter account on Sunday was Ann Coulter, who doubled down on her recent attack on Donald Trump and his presidency.

"The 1 fact (before DACA betrayal) that made die-hard Trump voters hate him: White House full of Goldman Sachs bankers," Coulter tweeted out in reference to the large number of bankers in the current administration.

Even Bush had only 3 Goldman Sachs officials in admin. Trump's had 6. https://t.co/yj4zinUwKy  Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 17, 2017

Correction: The audience in Cedar Rapids, Iowa did NOT cheer Trump's boasting about Goldman's Gary Cohn - https://t.co/Q7GgCOKsp7 https://t.co/yj4zinUwKy  Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 17, 2017

"Even Bush had only 3 Goldman Sachs officials in admin.

Trump's had 6," Ann Coulter pointed out in a follow-up tweet. In response to an article in The Intercept that claimed a crowd of Trump supporters cheered the president's decision to hire Goldman Sachs' Gary Cohn, Coulter was quick to correct the record. "Correction: The audience in Cedar Rapids, Iowa did NOT cheer Trump's boasting about Goldman's Gary Cohn," Coulter tweeted.

Sen @RoyBlunt, Trump voters aren't waiting for him to declare the border "operationally secure." They want a -- what's it called? -- A WALL.  Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 17, 2017

In an additional tweet, Ann Coulter fired back at Republican Sen. Roy Blount for his comments about Donald Trump's long-promised border wall. "Sen @RoyBlunt, Trump voters aren't waiting for him to declare the border "operationally secure." They want a -- what's it called? -- A WALL," Coulter wrote. Not stopping there, Coulter went on to mock Fox News for booking a guest that didn't appear in line with what the author's views are on the president, tweeting, "Fox guest Guy Benson: Trump base is FINE with amnesty & no wall!

It must be hard to find guests who've just emerged from a 3-year coma."

Fox guest Guy Benson: Trump base is FINE with amnesty & no wall! It must be hard to find guests who've just emerged from a 3-year coma.  Ann Coulter (@AnnCoulter) September 17, 2017

Moving forward

With the likes of Ann Coulter and other die-hard supporters turning on him, Donald Trump has been backed into a corner. Over the last week, the president has made curious moves on policies and politics, reaching a deal with Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer on the debt ceiling and reversing course on DACA, as well as the latest reports suggesting that the United States will no longer pull out of the Paris Climate deal. With the pressure mounting, Trump is down to just a 35 percent approval rating in the most recent round of polling.
It's no secret that celebrities out in Hollywood don't see eye to eye with Donald Trump. For comedian Bill Maher, there is no love lost between himself and the president.

Maher on Trump

Donald Trump's feud with the mainstream media and Hollywood stars started within minutes of his campaign announcement back in June 2015. Once the former host of "The Apprentice" referred to illegal immigrants from Mexico as "rapists" and "murderers," the majority of the press and celebrities were quick to lash out. In the months that followed, Trump's controversial rhetoric and unorthodox campaign style made him a prime target for criticism, while also become the constant butt of the joke for comedians and late night TV hosts.

On shows like "Saturday Night Live," Trump became a weekly target with actor Alec Baldwin playing the satirical role of the billionaire real estate mogul. On late-night TV, hosts like Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert have taken their shots at the president, but none have been as consistent as Bill Maher. While Maher usually saves attacking Trump for his HBO show "real time with Bill Maher," which airs Friday night's on the network, the notable atheist decided to poke fun at the president and his supporters during a September 17 tweet.

I see Trump fans mad at his DACA reversal still burning their MAGA hats and posting the video on line - its called The Douchebag Challenge!  Bill Maher (@billmaher) September 17, 2017

Taking to his Twitter account on Sunday afternoon, Bill Maher highlighted the recent dysfunction between Donald Trump and his supporters after the president cut deals with high-ranking Democrats over a variety of issues.

"I see Trump fans mad at his DACA reversal still burning their MAGA hats and posting the video on line - its called The Douchebag Challenge!" Maher tweeted out.

Here's why some Trump Supporters are setting their MAGA hats on fire https://t.co/XlOR5rlIHK pic.twitter.com/XonJQFGgHw  BuzzFeed (@BuzzFeed) September 17, 2017

Bill Maher's comments come just two days after he dedicated last Friday night's "Real Time" to the trouble brewing on the political right, with Donald Trump supporters appearing to bail on him.

Maher mocked the president for his supporters ditching their "MAGA" hats, while calling out supporters like Ann Coulter, Rush Limbaugh and others for attacking the president over his recent moves.

Moving forward

While Bill Maher and others take turns mocking and trolling the commander in chief, Donald Trump has big problems he must address in the White House.

With an approval rating that dropped to just 35 percent in the most recent round of polling, Trump is currently battling not just the Democrats, the media, and rival world leaders, but also the in-fighting within his own Republican Party.
"General Hospital" spoilers tease that Anna [Finola Hughes] has sunk to her lowest level yet. Ever since Valentin [James Patrick Stuart] came to town, she's been acting more and more outrageous. Of course, her worst behavior was when Anna was replaced by her twin sister, but even so, the real Anna has also been awful. Now she's sunk to blackmailing a man that's grieving the loss of his fiancee and child, yet she doesn't care. Is this Anna's lowest point ever?

Anna has a shady history

Newer GH viewers might now know just how low Anna can go, but shes been a real stinker in the past.

She betrayed the WSB by obtaining secrets for the DVX. It came out that her twin was also working for DVX, but Anna did too. Back in the day, Robert [Tristan Rogers] had to fire her because she had turned double agent and it was a huge mess to sort out.

Anna also kidnapped Cesar Faison [Anders Hove] and kept him prisoner, helped Ric [Rick Hearst] fake his death, threatened Julian [William deVry], shot Carlos [Jeffrey Vincent Parise] in cold blood when he was unarmed, and then helped Sloane [Robb Derringer] hide the death. The point is, Anna does what she wants to and doesnt mind crossing legal or ethical lines if she feels its necessary.

Annas focus on Valentin is obsessive

General Hospital spoilers predict that Annas obsession with Valentin will continue and right now, shes on the path to find the jewel thieves she believes he controls.

It does seem that Valentin still has connections in this vein because he took a beating to get back the sapphire necklace stolen from Ninas [Michelle Stafford] Crimson shoot. Valentin knew who stole it.

Valentin went and got the necklace back, but was assaulted while doing so. That shows hes out of the jewel thieving business but still has his contacts.

Also, since Valentin seems to be staying in Port Charles for the long haul, no way will Anna arrest him and send him to prison. They are cleaning Valentin up so they can keep him around  and that means Nikolas needs to come back.

Is Anna getting a new partner in her investigation into Valentin on @GeneralHospital? > https://t.co/SvtygT52p3 #GH pic.twitter.com/LWzMIFJmUz  Soaps In Depth ABC (@soapsindepthabc) August 18, 2017

Finn dragged along in Annas plot

Poor Finn needs a break to heal from his recent losses, but Anna doesnt care.

General Hospital spoilers say her blackmail will force him to meet Cassandra Pierce, the woman that fences the jewels for the crime ring. All of this is about Annas obsession with Valentin but it could lead to another Cassadine  recast Nikolas. Unfortunately, as Anna pushes to try and nail Valentin, she's putting Finn's sobriety at risk. With him grieving a dead child and runaway bride, isn't it cruel what Anna is doing? Well find out soon enough according to the newest General Hospital spoilers.
A total of 121.6 million units of smart wearable devices were sold in China in the second quarter of 2017, up by 27.5 percent year-on-year, according to a report released by IDC China on Sept 8.

Let us take a look at the best performers.

No 5 Shenzhen Continental Wireless Technology Co Ltd

Shipment: 611,000 units, up by 304.6 percent year-on-year

Market share: 5 percent
An exhibitor arranges roses at her stand at an expo in Nairobi, Kenya, June 5, 2014. [Photo/VCG]

NAIROBI - Kenya's flower industry has tapped into the growing Chinese market in order to boost earnings of the sector, as part of the country's effort to diversify its markets of exporting.

The expanding Chinese economy has created demand for high quality flowers, Kenya Flower Council (KFC) CEO Jane Ngige told Xinhua in an interview before and during the two-day Naivasha Horticultural Fair, one of the biggest events of the kind in Africa, which concluded on Saturday.

"Chinese consumers are willing to pay a premium price for high quality flowers. We therefore want to tap into the high value flower segment of Chinese market in order enhance our farmers earnings," Ngige said, adding that to meet the demand, the industry is seeking to move up the flower value chain amid rising costs of production.

Most of Kenyan flower exports reach the Asian nation via the Netherlands-based flower auctions, said Ngige, stressing that a number of Kenyan flower firms do send flowers directly to China but in limited quantities.

Kevin Liu is one of a few Chinese businessmen who specializes in exporting Kenyan flowers to China directly. He told Xinhua in an interview at the fair on Friday that his company, Kevin International, exported only 40 tons of flowers to China in 2015 when the business was initiated. In the following year, the sales had increased to 320 tons, most of which were roses.

Accoring to Liu, the future for Kenyan flowers in China is bright. Ngige also has confidence. She said the Kenyan flowers can be competitive in the Chinese market due to factors including the presence of direct air links between the two countries, though logistics remains a challenge for businesses due to the need to balance inward and outward cargo.

"The flower sector is holding discussions with airlines to come up with best arrangement that will ensure maximum revenue," Ngige said.

Kenya flower industry is producing a relatively stable volume in recent years. Last year, the East African nation exported approximately 133,000 tons of flowers, the bulk of which was absorbed by the European Union member states, according to the website of the KFC, which did not provide figures on export to each markets.

According to the ministry of agriculture, the flower sector earned Kenya about $690 million in 2016, making it one of the leading sources of foreign exchange.

"Kenya produces world class flowers that compete globally due to its geographic location along the equator that has sunshine throughout the year as well as favorable soils," she said.

"In addition, Kenya's location allows it to export flowers seamlessly to all regions of the world," the KFC CEO said. Kenya is among four countries in the world that can produce high quality roses.

Ngige added that increased sales to China will help the industry diversify its export markets. "Currently the industry is very vulnerable as most of its produce is sold to a single economic bloc," she added.

Ngige said that there is urgent need for Kenya to find new markets due to increasing competition in the flower business, noting that Kenya's success in the flower industry has motivated other African nations to enter into the sector.

"In the past decade, we have seen the emergence of Ethiopia, Rwanda and Tanzania as flower exporters," she said.
Cui: United Nations resolution also calls for dialogue

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai.

China's envoy to Washington has urged the US to do more to resolve the nuclear crisis on the Korean Peninsula, while stressing that the UN resolution on Pyongyang also calls for dialogue and peace talks.

Hours after the Democratic People's Republic of Korea launched another missile over Japan into the Pacific Ocean on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to the US Cui Tiankai said Washington "should be doing much more than now", so that there's real, effective international cooperation on the Korean Peninsula issue.

"Everybody else will have to do their share; they cannot leave this issue to China alone," Cui said at a reception on Friday night in Washington.

The US should refrain from issuing more threats. Instead, it should do more to find effective ways to resume dialogue and negotiations, Cui said.

The ambassador's remarks followed shortly after the DPRK's latest missile launch drew condemnation from the United Nations and refueled fiery rhetoric about a military option from the Trump administration, which also asked China to mount pressure on the DPRK, partly by cutting oil shipments to Pyongyang.

China responded by saying that it has done its best, and the initiators of a problem should resolve it, said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying.

When asked about the oil cuts, Ambassador Cui told reporters, "We are fully prepared to implement all the Security Council resolutionsno more, no less."

Cui, however, bluntly said that China will never recognize the DPRK as a nuclear state and opposes nuclear weapons anywhere on the Korean Peninsula and beyond, including Japan and Taiwan.

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2375 on Sept 11 in response to the DPRK's sixth nuclear test, conducted on Sept 3.

Cui said the resolution is a shared responsibility for all parties.

"We need to be clear that the latest UN resolution not only sanctions the DPRK's nuclear activities but also calls for the reopening of dialogue and resolving the issue through consultations," Cui said. "The resolution should be implemented comprehensively."

At the UN's headquarters in New York on Friday, Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia also called on the US and others to implement the "political and diplomatic solutions" that are called for in the latest sanctions resolution.

"Without implementing these, we also will consider it as noncompliance with the resolution," Nebenzia said, Reuters reported.
WASHINGTON - US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday that the United States was considering whether or not to close down the US embassy in Cuba after US diplomats fell ill.

"We have it under evaluation and it's a very serious issue with respect to the harm some individuals have suffered," said Tillerson in an interview with CBS.

"We've brought some of those people home. It's under review," he added.

The US State Department revealed last month that at least 16 Americans working at the US embassy in Havana, Cuba, suffered physical symptoms caused by some "incidents."

The US authorities later confirmed that at least 21 Americans suffered physical symptoms.

No details of the injuries have been released, but media reports said the affected Americans suffered a severe hearing loss and at least one victim suffered some "brain damage."

The United States expelled two Cuban diplomats in late May after some US Embassy personnel in Havana reported that some "incidents" caused "a variety of physical symptoms" in them.

Cuba said that it was investigating allegations by the United States that unspecified "incidents" caused physical symptoms in Americans serving at the US Embassy in Havana, after two Washington-based Cuban diplomats were expelled.

"Cuba has never, nor would it ever, allow that the Cuban territory be used for any action against accredited diplomatic agents or their families," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The United States and Cuba officially resumed a diplomatic relationship in July 2015, more than five decades after they severed it.
Rick Kimberley, president of Kimberley Farms Inc, at home. A photo of President Xi and Kimberley is in background. YUAN ZHANG / CHINA DAILY

A delegation of nearly 50 people from Iowa embarked on a 10-day visit to China on Sunday, and a groundbreaking ceremony for a China-US Friendship Demonstration Farm, believed to be the first of its kind, is on the agenda, China Daily learned Sunday morning.

Terry Branstad, the US ambassador to China, will attend the ceremony, according to a news release from the Iowa Sister States commission, a non-profit organization founded in 1985 to manage Iowa's official relationships with foreign states and provinces. The organization was established when Branstad was governor.

The China-US Friendship Demonstration farm, to be located in Luanping county, Hebei province in northern China, will include an educational agriculture site modeled after a farm near Maxwell, Iowa, owned by Rick and Martha Kimberley and their son Grant.

The educational components of the project will include visuals of modern agriculture technology such as machinery, and advances such as grain storage and drying, as well as test plots.

Rick Kimberley, president of Kimberley Farms Inc, told China Daily that the demonstration farm will occupy a total area of 3,000 acres and will have a groundbreaking ceremony on Sept 23.

"The first phase will be a re-creation of my home and building," Kimberley said.

"When President Xi was at my home and farm (in 2012), he said that he wanted to use my farm as a model of modern agriculture to China. So they will recreate my home and buildings."

The demonstration farm will use the same modern equipment and technology that the Kimberleys use. There will be demonstration plots for seeds and demonstrations of the use of equipment.

"The farm will create an environment for learning and showcasing modern farming practices and techniques," Kimberley said. "There will also be a conference center."

Besides Executive Director Kim Heidemann and board members Luca Berrone, Grant Kimberley and Will Zhang, the delegation also includes Rick Kimberley and representatives from Cozen O'Connor, China-Iowa Group, Diamond V, TransOva and Sukup Manufacturing.

Representatives from other organizations will join the delegation in China, including Hy-Line International, The Des Moines Register, Principal Financial Group, Syngenta, John Deere, Monsanto, DuPont Pioneer and BlueShirt Group.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, attendees will participate in a Hebei-Iowa agriculture seminar. In addition to attending the ceremony, Ambassador Branstad will also host a reception, according to the news release.

In 1983, then governor Branstad signed the Iowa-Hebei Sister State/Province agreement with then Hebei governor Zhang Shuguang. The "relationship is one of Iowa's most famous and visible relationships since it was formally recognized by Chinese President Xi Jinping", according to a news release.

In 1985, Xi, then a county leader in Hebei province, visited Iowa through the sister-state/province program.

In 2012, Xi returned to Iowa as vice-president of China. It was his first time back to the state since 1985. During his visit, he met with several "old friends", and also visited new places such as the Kimberleys' farm.

yuanzhang@chinadailyusa.com
"Innovation is all about 'what is new', and the key is to dare to think differently," said Microsoft's Harry Shum.

Shum, executive vice-president at the tech giant, leads Microsoft's AI and Research Group.

He is also actively involved in educational innovation as one of the five board members of the Global Innovation Exchange (GIX), a partnership between major research universities and innovative corporations to develop leaders in innovation.

The two founding partners of GIX are the University of Washington and Tsinghua University, with support from Microsoft.

The idea of the model was born in 2012, and the partnership between the two universities was created after Microsoft President Brad Smith visited Tsinghua University in Beijing.

"We started working on this five years ago, and it was based on the sense that future education would need to bring people together from different countries," Smith said. "Some of the problems of the world are global problems, issues like climate, (and) don't respect boundaries. If we are going to make progress in solving these problems, we have to find new ways to work together. "

Smith said "it was a reflection of Microsoft's long-standing research work in Beijing, our relationship with Tsinghua University. I felt that of all the universities in the world, it could bring more to this kind of international partnership, really the kind of partnership the world needs, than any other institution.

On Sept 14, GIX announced that it had been joined by eight more Academic Network members and five Industry Consortium members.

The eight members of the GIX Academic Network are: cole polytechnique fdrale de Lausanne, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the Indian Institute of Science, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, National Taiwan University, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Tecnolgico de Monterrey, and the University of British Columbia.

GIX Industry Consortium members include: Arm, Baidu, Boeing HorizonX and T-Mobile. Hainan Airlines has joined GIX as a valued partner providing travel support, fellowships and project support for students.

Academic Network members promote GIX to their students and connect faculty with relevant areas of research expertise.

Industry Consortium members gain access to the GIX community of faculty, inventors and learners and may submit projects for students in the launch phase of the curriculum.

GIX also celebrated the opening of its new home, a 100,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Bellevue, Washington.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, said that the new GIX facility will be named the "Steve Ballmer Building" in honor of the former Microsoft CEO.

Microsoft provided $40 million in early funding. Under Ballmer's leadership, Microsoft was the first company to open a basic research facility in China, and the Redmond, Washington company now has a 20-year relationship with Tsinghua University.

Later this month, the GIX building will be occupied by the program's first two cohorts of master of science in technology innovation (MSTI from UW) degree students and dual degree students, which combines the MSTI with a master of engineering in data science and information technology (MEDSIT from Tsinghua) degree.

Half the students are from the United States and China. The rest hail from Canada, Estonia, France, India, Pakistan, Paraguay, Russia and Switzerland.

"We just 'opened the door' to the brand new GIX building," said Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong at the celebration ceremony. "I know we have opened the door to a level of cooperation that is unlimited by boundaries."

lindadeng@chinadailyusa.com
Please turn JavaScript on and reload the page.

Loading...

Checking your browser before accessing the website.

This process is automatic. Your browser will redirect to your requested content shortly.

Please wait a few seconds.
HA NOI  Mercedes-Benz Vietnam is issuing a recall to the owners of 1,234 vehicles of various models in Viet Nam to fix faulty power systems and the electrical connection to the electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS).

According to the German car company, the list of vehicles includes many small-size models from the A-Class, C-Class and E-Class sedans, SUVs like the GLC, GLE, GL, and high-performance AMG models.

Under the recall campaign, 940 vehicles are being recalled to fix the power systems due to a risk of fire and the remainder of nearly 300 SUV units will be recalled to replace the electrical connections of the EHPS.

Mercedes-Benz Vietnam said that the reason for recalling 940 vehicles is due to a defective starting current limiter that can be overloaded when starting the engine.

The starting current limiter could overload under unique conditions where a driver repeatedly tried to start their car when the engine had seized up, said Mercedes-Benz Vietnam. In the worst case scenario it is possible to ignite the surrounding parts and thus cause a fire.

The solution is to install a fuse on the starting current limiter as a precaution to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.

As for nearly 300 SUVs, Mercedes-Benz Vietnam says the EHPSs electrical connection could get wet, increasing the risk of accidents depending on the condition of the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz Vietnam recommended that consumers should bring their vehicles to its official dealers to fix the error. The repairs are expected to take about one hour per unit.

The recall campaign will last from now until September 10, 2020 at authorised agents across the country and is completely free.

As for vehicles imported to Viet Nam under the form of assets, diplomatic and personal use, Mercedes-Benz Vietnam will support and fix the error for free when it receives approval from Daimler AG in Germany.  VNS
HA NOI  As the countrys consumption demand increases to match national economic progress, more and more foreign retailers are entering the Vietnamese market to a warm welcome from buyers, while Viet Nams domestic brands look for their own growth strategies against the newcomers.

Regarding the rising trend of foreign firms gaining market share in Viet Nam, reports from the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) stated that at the moment, there are roughly a thousand convenience stores across the entire country, plus a few hundred supermarkets and shopping centres. These figures are considered too little for a population of 90 million and demand rising everyday.

This is even more disconcerting when put into perspective, as there is approximately one convenience store per 69,000 Vietnamese citizens, compared to one per 21,000 in China and one per 1,800 in South Korea as at the end of 2016.

Le Viet Nga, deputy head of MoITs Domestic Market Department, stated that convenience stores had received a good reception in the market, and were on their way to becoming the fastest growing retail segment, with double digit growth in 2017.

Convenience stores are the new and modern trading channel, selling products with clear origins and offering good customer service. As such, they allow small- and medium-sized enterprises many opportunities to approach buyers in a direct manner, said Nga.

According to the MoIT, investors are also favouring convenience stores since their return on investment is much higher than traditional supermarkets or hypermarkets, while initial investment is much lower.

Furthermore, business licences for convenience stores and mini-marketplaces are easier to obtain than for supermarkets, since retail outlets of less than 500sq.m are not subject to the economic needs test (ENT), Nga commented.

As such, foreign entities are quick to sniff out potential customers and can easily infiltrate the Vietnamese market thanks to their advantages in terms of capital, business strategy and an established global distribution chain.

Furthermore, as Viet Nam is full of fresh products available year round at relatively cheap prices and populated residential areas, convenience stores can easily meet demand by supplying consumers with a variety of products at small neighbourhood outlets.

Recently, well known names such as the Philippines Shop&Go, US Circle K and Japans 7-Eleven have approached Vietnamese consumers with great success. Their strengths lie in convenience, in terms of both time and location, first and foremost, followed by affordable prices and a customer-friendly environment.

Other stores specialising in household items and fashion accessories that have populated Viet Nams retail market include Chinas Miniso and Ilahui since late 2016, and Daiso since 2008. The explosion of such brands has steered consumers towards the rising convenience store trend.

In less than a year, more than 100 such convenience stores have opened in Ha Noi, HCM City, and other major cities in Viet Nam, with some even reaching out to more remote areas. The model caters to lower- and middle-class shoppers with a variety of convenient and affordable goods.

The MoIT reports that more than 70 per cent of convenience stores on the market, as well as 17 per cent of malls and supermarkets, 15 per cent of mini-marketplaces and 50 per cent of online shopping channels belong to foreign companies.

Indigenous forte

Despite the crowded sector, domestic brands such as VinGroup and Saigon Co.op are gaining market share, though there is a dearth of other notable names.

VinGroupss retail section, VinCommerce, was crowned the fastest growing retailer in Viet Nam in 2016. The companys retail network now has a store count of over 930, including a variety of Vinmart supermarkets, Vinmart+ convenience stores, Vinpro electronics stores, and VinDS consumer lifestyle specialty stores, all over the country.

Additionally, Saigon Co.op General Director Nguyen Thanh Nhan said that his company was looking to increase the number of Co.op Smile stores to 300 by the end of 2017, compared to the mere 20 outlets in 2016.

Traditional retail channels still account for 72 per cent of the market but this number is forecasted to decline to just 60 per cent in 2020, as stated in reports by the MoIT.

Speaking on this matter, L. Chaitanya Kishore Reddy, Research Director and Representative of TNS Vietnam, advised Vietnamese producers and distributors to focus on supplying buyers with the values that they need, which at the moment is convenience and efficiency.

Reddy also said that the Vietnamese Government must help enhance the distribution chain from input to output, especially with smaller producers, and encourage larger businesses to unify small- and medium-sized distributors within the national retail value chain.  VNS
HCM CITY  HCM City has called for more investment in solar power in the city due to the great potential of the sector.

The city has the opportunity to develop solar power as it is located in an area with strong solar radiation, ranging from 4.3KWh/m2 per day to 6.6KWh/m2 per day, according to statistics from city authorities.

The HCM City Power Corporation, a pioneer in installing solar power systems, has installed four solar power plants in four locations in the city with total installed capacity of 226KWp.

The corporation plans to install grid solar power connected to the roofs of 15 offices of the corporation with a total installed capacity of about 800KWp by the end of this year.

The corporation also plans to install solar power connected to the grid at other units belonging to the corporation as well as at 220/110KV power stations in the future.

Pham Quoc Bao, deputy general director of the HCM City Power Corporation, said the installation of the solar power systems would meet part of the power demand of the buildings, thus saving the operating costs of the buildings.

Since 2011, the corporation has invested in solar systems to supply electricity to 172 households in Thieng Lieng Hamlet in Can Gio Districts Thanh An Commune with a monthly electricity output of 11,500KWh, he said.

According to Bao, businesses and investors used to be hesitant in investing in solar power.

However, since 2013, the installed capacity of solar power in the city has increased rapidly, from 200KWp in 2013 to 1MWp in 2015 and 3MWp in July this year.

To promote the use of solar power, the HCM City Power Corporation has asked the city to continue running programmes or campaigns to encourage residents to use solar water heaters and install solar power systems connected to the grid.

The city should also direct export processing zones, industrial zones, hi-tech parks, State agencies, among others, to prepare for the installation of solar power equipment in the buildings.

In addition, the city should also issue policies and incentives to support residents and enterprises to install solar power systems.

Solar-power decision

More businesses are expected to invest in the solar energy sector in the future due to a recent decision to encourage the development of solar power projects which took effect in June.

Under the decision, all output produced by solar power projects will be purchased for VN2,086 (9.3 US cents) per kWh (excluding VAT) - a profitable rate for investors.

The price will be adjusted in line with the VN/USD exchange rate, and only applied to power grid-connected projects with the cell efficiency above 16 per cent or productivity module over 15 per cent.

Investors involved in solar power projects in Viet Nam will be eligible for various incentives related to land, investment capital and corporate income and import tax rates.

The decision aims to draw funds to the field, with many investors interested in the industry.

According to the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, only 16 foreign-invested green energy projects were operating in Viet Nam as of the end of last year, with total registered capital of $778 million, and only 18 per cent of them were invested in solar power.

The decision is expected to pave the way for investors, especially foreign investors, to expand their operations in the solar power industry.

Last year, HCM City consumed about 3,575 MWof electricity, of which renewable energy accounted for 3.96MW, or 0.1 per cent.

The city has set a target of increasing its use of renewable energy to 1.74 per cent, equivalent to 96MW, by 2020.

Since 2015, the city has encouraged residents and businesses to invest in solar power systems by granting a subsidy of VN2,000 (10 US cents) per kWh used for domestic purposes or sold to the national electricity grid.  VNS
The benchmark VN-Index confirmed a steady uptrend with a forth consecutive rally week, but suspicion lingers in the context of modest liquidity and dominant role of large-cap stocks. Photo ndh.vn

HA NOI  The benchmark VN-Index confirmed a steady uptrend with a forth consecutive rally week, but suspicion lingers in the context of modest liquidity and dominant role of large-cap stocks.

Easing investor worries about a possible correction after a long rally, the VN-Index hit a new 10-year high at 806.32 points on Thursday, the highest level since February 15, 2008. It decreased slightly on Friday on exchange-traded funds (ETFs) trading but still closed the week up 0.6 per cent at 805.82 points.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index also increased 0.54 per cent for the week, closing Friday at 104.49 points.

The market started the week in the negative zone under rising profit-taking pressure but quickly regained in the following sessions thanks to growth of heavyweight stocks.

Major stocks such as Masan Group (MSN), Vietcombank (VCB), Petrolimex (PLX), PV Gas (GAS), VinGroup (VIC), Hoa Phat Group (HPG), Bao Viet Holdings (BVH), Vinamilk (VNM) and Saigon Beer-Alcohol-Beverage (SAB) took turns to lead the market.

However, liquidity declined and remained modest, even when two FTSE and V.N.M ETFs conducted their portfolio trading on Friday. This indicates cautious psychology among investors.

An average of about 187.4 million shares worth over VN4 trillion (US$177.8) were traded in the two markets per session, down 30 per cent in volume and 13 per cent in value compared to the previous week.

Although the market had a week of rallying, the divergence remained wide along with weakening cash flows and low liquidity, said Tran uc Anh, a stock analyst at Bao Viet Securities Co.

In fact, the recent uptrend has been strongly supported by positive movement of large-cap stocks. If the market liquidity makes no improvement, the market will likely enter a short-term downtrend, Anh wrote in a note.

The VN-Index has been on a steady upswing, with growth of 5.8 per cent in the last four weeks and over 21 per cent since the beginning of this year.

According to analysts on the financial website vietstock.vn, the VN-Index is heading for a new level of 815 points. Growth of stock in financial services, natural resources, real estate and construction and food-beverage sectors are exptected to continue to prop up the market.

Though the macro-economic condition is backing a market uptrend, analysts at BIDV Securities Co (BSC) have warned of negative impact of foreign trading on the local market.

Though in doubt, the VN-Index will likely continue heading to new highs next week with rotation of large-cap growth. However, the market risk will also increase at the same time if it cannot attract domestic investors and foreign investors continue their net selling activity, BSCs analysts wrote in a report.

Foreign traders concluded the second week of net selling with a value of VN333 billion last week, lifting the two-week net sell value to VN407 billion in the two markets.

Vietcombank (VCB) topped the most sold last week with a value of over VN214 billion, followed by VinGroup (VIC) and Vinamilk (VNM) with over VN100 billion each.  VNS
BAC LIEU  The Department of Planning and Investment of the Mekong Delta province of Bac Lieu signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the South Korea-based SY Group to build a solar power project in ong Hai District.

Under the MoU, the SY Group will construct a 400ha solar power plant in Long ien ong Commune, ong Hai District, by June 2019 with a total investment of more than VN10.24 trillion, or over US$450.5 million.

The first phase of the project will have a capacity of 50MW while the second will bring the capacity up to 300MW.

It is the biggest solar energy project in Viet Nam so far, said the groups chairman Hong Young Don. Once completed, it will help boost local social-economic development, he added.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Duong Thanh Trung vowed the province would create best possible conditions for the investor to implement the project.  VNS
HA NOI  The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has valued the Vietnam Rubber Group (VRG), the countrys largest rubber company, at VN4 trillion (US$177.78 million), not including its land, marking another step toward its equitisation by the end of 2017.

According to a decision signed by MARD last week, the company will submit its equitisation plan to the Government this month. VRG missed the deadline for its initial public offering (IPO), which was scheduled for July 2017.

According to deputy minister Ha Cong Tuan, the reason for the delay is the Governments desire for the IPO to be audited by the State Audit of Viet Nam to ensure the State capital in the company is protected.

As VRG has a large area of land property, which covers 420,000ha in Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia, the audit must be carried out carefully, Tuan said. This is such a big advantage for VRG and the profit brought by the large area of land could be huge in the future.

It will take months to collect feedback from other ministries and sectors on the equitisation plan of VRG, but we have to be careful to preserve the State capital in the company, said Tuan.

Nonetheless, deputy minister Tuan and VRG deputy general director Huynh Van Bao assured local media that the company will complete its equitisation by the end of this year and start running as a joint-stock firm in 2018.

In addition to careful inspection of VRGs land property, the IPO has also been delayed by the search for a strategic investor with specialised knowledge and understanding of the agricultural sector and the same vision as VRG.

Deputy minister Tuan and the firms general director Tran Ngoc Thuan told au Tu (Investment) newspaper that it was hard to find such a potential investor who can also spend around VN5-10 trillion to purchase part of the Government capital. The companys charter capital as of December 21, 2015 was VN26.16 trillion.

VRG has maintained good performance on rising rubber prices. The rubber price on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange gained 0.1 per cent to finish Friday trading at 221.4 yen per kilogramme.

In the first six months of 2017, VRG posted VN8.1 trillion in revenue and VN1.5 trillion in post-tax profit, increases of 46 per cent and 169 per cent from one year ago. The figures helped VRG complete 33 per cent and 47 per cent of its targets for 2017.  VNS
Thien Ly

In the first eight months of the year Viet Nam attracted foreign investment worth more than US$23.36 billion, a year-on-year increase of 45.1 per cent.

Though it was rightly hailed by all, the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) in a recent report listed several shortcomings, one of which was the rapid increase in the number of projects with very little capital.

In fact, the number of projects with capital of below $1 million accounted for 65 per cent of all projects during this period.

The average size was $3.8 million, rather modest according to experts.

Experts have been warning for a long time that foreign-owned projects are getting smaller, but the issue has not been addressed so far.

For instance, last year the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province of An Giang attracted only one foreign project and it was worth all of $20,000.

Similar sized projects have been seen even in major cities like Ha Noi, a Nang and HCM City.

HCM City last year licensed 836 FDI projects whose capital added over $1 billion, meaning each was worth nearly $1.2 million.

In a Nang too, most FDI projects last year averaged around $1 million worth of capital.

Analysts said though the Government makes great efforts to attract investors, the number of those from countries like the US, Germany and France remains modest, with many big players still hesitant to invest in Viet Nam.

This is because Viet Nam has yet to really meet three requirements: publicity for and transparency in fighting against corruption; preventing violations of intellectual property rights and the continuing problem of red tape though Viet Nam has made great progress in administrative reform.

Some experts blame the situation on authorised agencies poor ability to assess FDI projects before granting investment licences.

One of the consequences is that many FDI projects have limited resources and use outdated technology and equipment that cause pollution.

Analysts said there are differences between the FDI regimes of Viet Nam and other countries, explaining that Viet Nam is very careful in granting licences but is lax in overseeing their business activities.

On the other hand, others make it easy for foreign investors to get licences but carefully monitor their activities subsequently.

After reviewing FDI inflows in the last few years, MPI experts realised the necessity to fix a minimum capital requirement for foreign investors wanting to come to the country.

Small projects, including foreign-invested ones, often face major challenges in their early days caused by their very size. They focus on assembling instead of production, their use of local content is low, their exports are mainly based on outsourcing, they are labour-intensive  as in the so-called, much derided sweat shops -- and create little value addition.

They are of little help to the Vietnamese economic or business set-up because they unable to transfer technology to local companies, thus failing the Governments policy of attracting FDI to help improve domestic technological capacity.

The ratio of FDI companies in the manufacturing and processing sectors has plummeted in recent years to 20-30 per cent from 70-80 per cent earlier.

A majority of them have capital ranging from a few dozen thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars and use simple technologies.

Analysts stressed the need to attract FDI selectively to improve quality and allow only domestic companies in areas where they can do well.

Bad debt market gets fillip from new policy

On September 14 the National Commercial Joint Stock Bank (NCB) auctioned off a 2,100sq.m piece of land in Binh Duong Provinces Thuan An Town with a reserve price of VN11.6 billion ($515,000). The land had been pledged as collateral for a loan.

Agribank plans to put up all the assets and land use rights mortgaged for the V-Ikon project for auction at a starting price of VN319.5 billion on September 19. The V-Ikon project was planned as a grade A office building with 26 floors in HCM Citys Binh Thanh District and its construction halted several years ago after the developer ran out of funds.

Sacombank has said it is checking many assets put up as collateral and expects to auction them soon to recover debts.

Market observers said nearly one month after Resolution 42 came into effect, several banks have made active plans to recover their bad debts.

Some bankers revealed that their banks are wrapping up legal formalities to sue some companies who borrowed from them but failed to repay.

The Viet Nam Asset Management Company (VAMC) was the pioneer, confiscating an asset mortgaged for non-repayment of a loan by the Sai Gon One Tower Joint Stock Company. The asset in question is the high-rise Sai Gon M&C building at 34 Ton uc Thang, HCM City.

It had earlier signed an agreement with several lenders for purchase of their debts to a group of customers, including Sai Gon One Tower Joint Stock Company (formerly Saigon M&C Real Estate Joint Stock Company), Lien Phat Investment Joint Stock Company, Minh Quan Investment and Construction Joint Stock Company, and New Superdeck M&C Joint Stock Company.

The total outstanding debts, including interest, came to more than VN7 trillion ($307 million).

The VAMC repeatedly demanded that the borrowers repay, but they neither did so nor came up with feasible repayment plans.

It then demanded that Sai Gon One Tower Joint Stock Company hand over the building to discharge its debt, but again in vain. It was then that it took precipitate action, seizing the building.

But the process took place smoothly and in accordance with the law.

Analysts said several legal provisions in Resolution No 42 are designed to quickly and definitely settle bad debts, thus paving the way for the VAMC and lenders to recover their money.

One of the provisions in the resolution to have a significant bearing on banks debt recovery is Article 10, which states that debtorscollaterals to banks is not limited to residential construction projects, as there is no clear legal restriction on other types of real estate, such as hotels, resorts, even factories and power plants, to be used in place of pledged assets.

As such, this allows for more flexible use of collateral, preventing debtors from defaulting for lack of valuable assets.

Article 7 acknowledges credit institutions right to appropriate pledged assets from debtors unless an asset in question is held by courts as evidence of a criminal offence by a debtor.

This is an improvement on the 2015 Civil Code, which does not allow appropriation of pledged assets.

Article 8 has more transparent and simpler legal procedures for dealing with non-performing loans.

Besides, Resolution 42 now allows financial institutions capable of purchasing and selling bad debts to do so, instead of restricting these activities to Government entities.

Bad debts can be sold at below book value, meaning they are no longer toxic assets that have lost nearly all their value for banks.

Overall, this can lead to bad debts being traded more frequently on the mergers and acquisitions market (M&A) in at least the next five years.

Analysts said the new regulations have helped create a market for bad debts in which mortgaged properties can be traded.

A top Sacombank executive said his bank hopes to resolve around VN20 trillion ($881.06 million) worth of bad debts, or a fifth of the total amount, by year end, thanks to the new resolution.

Right after the resolution took effect, Techcombank bought back the bad debts it had sold to the VAMC to settle them on its own. A spokesperson said with the new regulations the bank would be able to speed up bad debt settlement.

Analysts said the resolution would have a big impact on banks that have bad debts in their balance sheet or with the VAMC.  VNS
HA NOI  The Viet Nam Publishing Association has proposed to raise the discount limit on books to 80 per cent instead of the current maximum rate of 50 per cent.

The present rate was deemed to be no longer suitable.

Association vice president Le Hoang told Thanh nien (Young People) newspaper on Monday that the proposal submitted to the Ministry of Industry and Trade was the result of discussions between several publishing houses over regulations on book discount.

The Government Decree 37, issued in 2006, set the book discount rate at no higher than 50 per cent, while the period of sales promotion of a book was capped at a maximum of 90 days a year.

Such regulations, according to the publishers, were "too outdated" for the growing book market, causing difficulties for them to run book sale promotion campaigns and limiting opportunities for readers to buy much cheaper books all year round.

A freshman of the HCM City University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Nguyen Xuan Mai, said she and her friends were always looking forward to book events to buying discounted books.

"We students have little money to buy books at their cover price from bookstores. If we do, maybe just a book a couple of months. So we keep track of when the publishers have a promotion campaign to buy cheap books and even get gifts," Mai said.

Huy Hoang Bookstores southern branch director Nguyen Huy Hai admitted that organising book sales was never an easy job at book festivals.

The bookstores and publishers were coming up with new ways to attract readers, such as distributing gifts, buy one get one, or one price for all.

Many even broke the rule by stealthily offering significant discounts of more than 50 per cent during the last two days of a book festival without publicly announcing it, Hai said.

Book sales in other countries are allowed to reach up to 70 per cent discount in Singapore or even 90 per cent in the United States, Hoang said.

"Why can the books there can be 70-80 per cent off all year and Viet Nams cannot?" Hoang asked.  VNS
HA NOI  A colourful mural painting designed by world-famous Chilean mural artist Alejandro Mono Gonzalez was unveiled this morning in Ha Noi to celebrate Chiles National Day on September 18.

Artists of the New Hanoi (Tan Hanoi) arts company made the mural using ceramic material.

The latest mural painting, 12m long and 2.3m high, is part of the existing 3.9km Ha Noi Ceramic Road, which was recognised as the worlds largest mural painting in 2010, with total area of 6.500 sq.m.

This ceramic mosaic mural, which runs along the roads of Au Co, Nghi Tam, Yen Phu and Tran Nhat Duat, as well as Tran Quang Khai and Tran Khanh Du, and terminates at the pier of Long Bien Bridge, was built in 2008. It was among the major projects that were developed on the occasion of the Millennial Anniversary of Ha Noi.

The project won artist Nguyen Thu Thuy, its creator, the prestigious Bui Xuan Phai award in 2008, honouring valuable artworks of the capital.

She was highly appreciated for her idea to transform the dyke system around Ha Noi into a ceramic mosaic.

I am very proud and touched when artist Gonzalez was invited to design this part of the mural by Ambassador of Chile to Viet Nam Claudio De Negri, and that this artwork was unveiled on the National Day of Chile, Thuy said.

With this mural painting, located near the Quang An flower market, Gonzalez wants to share his vision of a beautiful and progressive life that communist countries have aimed for since 1970.

Mono Gonzalez was born in 1947 in Curico City of Chile.

He worked as an artistic director at the Municipal Theatre of Santiago, designing the stage for famous plays, including Don Quixote and Romeo and Juliet.

He is well known for his large-size mural paintings, which have beautified public spaces and buildings in Chile and several other countries, including Argentina, Ecuador, Peru and Cuba, as well as Canada, France, Italy and the Netherlands, along with Portugal, Ukraine, China and now Viet Nam.

In Chile, he is the author of the art work titled Art and the city: Life and work, which was installed in 2004 at the Parque Bustamante metro in Santiago City. Featuring the history of social movements of Chile, this is the longest mural painting in the country - 233m long and 3m high.

Concerned about societal issues and the countrys destiny, the artist through his works, which are full of colour and humanity, often conveys his aspirations about human relations, people and society.

In October, Mono Gonzalez will meet artists in Ha Noi and students at the Vietnam University of Fine Arts.  VNS
Deputy Prime Minister Vuong inh Hue meet with World Trade Organisation (WTO) leaders in Geneva, Switzerland, on Friday.  VNA/VNS Photo Hoang Hoa

GENEVA  Deputy Prime Minister Vuong inh Hue had working sessions with World Trade Organisation (WTO) leaders in Geneva, Switzerland, on Friday, aiming to garner more support for the countrys global economic integration efforts.

Hue, also head of the Inter-Sectoral Steering Committee for Economic Integration, met with WTO Director-General Roberto Azevedo, WTO Deputy Director-General Karl Brauner and Chairman of WTO General Council Xavier Carim at WTO headquarters in Geneva.

The deputy PM lauded the WTO, saying the organisation plays a vital role in promoting global trade and in Viet Nams economic integration. He asked the WTO to provide Viet Nam with assistance in implementing WTO agreements, getting updates on international trade and increasing public awareness of WTO-related issues.

The trade leaders welcomed the countrys contribution to global trade and lauded its role in developing agenda for the organisations Eleventh Ministerial Conference (MC11) in Argentina in December.

Azevedo agreed to Hues proposal on support for Viet Nam and gave him updates on preparation for the MC11. The WTO director general also affirmed his determination to build a transparent, predictable and inclusive trading system.

Viet Nams Inter-Sectorial Steering Committee for Economic Integration and Ministry of Industry and Trade and the WTOs Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation signed an agreement to hold a regional training course on trade negotiation in Ha Noi in November.

The same day, the Deputy PM met with President of the Geneva Financial Centre (GFC) Yves Mirabaud and GFC Director Edouard Cuendet. Hue informed his hosts on Viet Nams policies on security, insurance, banking and State-owned enterprises.

The two sides discussed the possibility of the GFC supporting Viet Nam in accessing funding, enhancing its capacity in managing financial institutions and building a financial centre.

The deputy PM urged the GFC to expand relations with financial associations in Viet Nam and share experience with them.

He wrapped up his visit to Switzerland and departed for Brussels in Belgium on Friday.  VNS
Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) Tong Thi Phong delivers speech at the first plenary session of the 38th AIPA General Assembly (AIPA-38) which opened in Manila, the Philippines, on Saturday. VNA/VNS Photo Viet Dung

MANILA  Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) Tong Thi Phong suggested measures to promote the role of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) at the first plenary session of the 38th AIPA General Assembly (AIPA-38) which opened in Manila, the Philippines, on Saturday.

Phong said 2017 is a special year, marking the 50th founding anniversary of ASEAN and 40 years since the AIPAs inception.

The AIPA-38 takes place amid complex global and regional developments such as territorial disputes, terrorism, pollution, epidemics, climate change, and growing trade protectionism, which have impacted security, unanimity and economic growth in Southeast Asia, she said.

In that context, the AIPA, along with ASEAN, should uphold the spirit of solidarity and unanimity and respond to challenges that threaten peace, security and stability in the region while contributing to the building of the ASEAN Community, Phong noted.

For both ASEAN and AIPA, bilateral co-operation must be reformed in a more effective manner, focusing on promoting the ASEAN Communitys development on all three pillars so the Community can maintain peace, stability and sustainable growth in the region, she said.

Co-operation should concentrate on enhancing ASEANs solidarity and improving the awareness of the ASEAN Community; and bringing into play ASEANs central role in the regional architecture, the official said.

She asked the AIPA, together with ASEAN, to work to raise public awareness of AIPAs importance, activities and capacity in contributing to building the ASEAN Community.

The AIPA should boost parliamentary diplomacys role in diplomatic activities among ASEAN members and between ASEAN and the blocs partners. It should increase the effectiveness of law-making co-operation to facilitate ASEAN co-operation in all spheres. The assembly needs to provide ASEAN governments with solutions to achieve the blocs targets, according to the official.

Phong proposed that the AIPA promote ASEANs central role in the region through upholding the groupings principles and standards and compliance with international law, strengthening member parliaments connectivity, and reinforcing ties with other parliamentary co-operation mechanisms.

The Vietnamese legislative leader called for improved efficiency of meetings between AIPA representatives and ASEAN leaders to bolster co-ordination between parliaments and governments of the nations.

It is also necessary to improve the AIPAs operations, including improving co-ordination mechanisms between the AIPA Secretariat in Jakarta and AIPA secretariats in member countries, as well as between the AIPA Secretariat and the ASEAN Secretariat, she added.

The AIPA-38 is taking place from September 16-19 with representatives from the 10 ASEAN member countries and 11 observer nations attending.

The AIPA members are set to discuss several critical issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, co-operation in solving food security-related issues, and better health care for female workers.  VNS
ONG NAI  The Ministry of Defence on Saturday started the construction of infrastructure to address dioxin contamination at Bien Hoa Airport in Bien Hoa City, the southern province of ong Nai.

The project has total investment of VN270 billion (US$11.8 million) from the State budget.

Key facilities include disarming war-time mines and bombs, building roads, zoning off dioxin contaminated areas and removing organisations and military works from the new detected squalid regions.

Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, the deputy minister of Defence, said on Saturday that the project shows the determination and efforts of Viet Nams Government and the State Steering Committee on National Action Programme on Settling the Consequences caused by unexploded ordnance and treating areas contaminated with dioxin, also known as Agent Orange.

The project will help reduce the risk of dioxin exposure to staff members, soldiers and residents working at and living near the airport, he said.

The move is a technical infrastructure preparation for a dioxin treatment project worth $500 million in non-refundable official development assistance from the US and other partners. Construction of the dioxin treatment project will begin latter this year, he added.

The High Command of Air Defence and Air Forces is assigned to carry out the project.

The Bien Hoa Airport used to be the main army base of the US military during the war. Between December 1969 and March 1970, at least four AO spills occurred at the Bien Hoa Airport, posing the greatest risk of dioxin exposure.

The ministry has also cordoned off 94,000sq.m of land near the airport which is contaminated.  VNS
HA NOI  PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Saturday visited the central provinces hardest hit by Typhoon Doksuri to inspect recovery efforts.

The Government chief arrived in Nghe An Provinces Cua Lo Town after the typhoon wrought havoc there a day earlier, destroying more than 350 houses and uprooting over 500 trees.

The PM also visited Nghi Hai primary school in the towns Nghi Hai Ward, where the roofs of many classrooms were blown away, with total losses of about VN1 billion (US$44,400).

He urged Nghe An Province to continue mobilising forces to clean the environment and support locals in repairing houses and schools, to ensure that all students can return to schools today (Monday) and that all residents can access power and fresh water.

He also asked authorities to help local manufacturers resume production by yesterday.

Phuc approved a proposal by Secretary of the Nghe An Party Committee, Nguyen ac Vinh, to set up of flood warning systems in Ky Son District and upgrade the sea dyke in the province to enhance its resilience.

Also on Saturday, PM Phuc accompanied by Minister-Chairman of the Government Office, Mai Tien Dung, and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong visited the central province of Ha Tinh to boost storm recovery efforts.

The PM and his delegation visited a primary school in Ky Nam Commune of Ky Anh District, which had been completely destroyed by the storm. He ordered the local authorities to immediately mobilise all efforts to reconstruct this and other damaged schools in the area.

Initial data showed more than 69,000 local houses in Ha Tinh were destroyed and about 3,100ha of fishery breeding areas were swept away.

The provinces agricultural production was also suffering from serious damage with about 1,000ha of rice having been submerged.

At a meeting with provincial authorities, PM Phuc agreed to urgently allocate a number of tonnes of rice as emergency aid to the province.

He also directed allocating VN40 billion ($1.8 million) to rebuild two antenna towers in the province.

The PM asked authorities to coordinate with residents to repair houses, schools and roads so that life could return to normal within five days.

Earlier, the PM inspected damage by Typhoon Doksuri in a Nang City and the central province of Quang Binh, ordering the allocation of 3,000 tonnes of rice from the national reserve to this central province.

According to the Central Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control, at least nine people were killed, 112 injured and four others missing after Doksuri swept through Viet Nam on Friday and Saturday.

The typhoon, the tenth to hit Viet Nam this year, caused widespread rainfall between 100-250mm in provinces from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien-Hue and left 1.3 million people without power.

Lao PM sends message of sympathy to storm-hit areas HA NOI  Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith on Sunday sent a message of sympathy to his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc over the loss of lives and property in areas hit by Typhoon Doksuri. In his message, the Lao PM said he believes that with the help of the Party leadership, the Government and central and local authorities, the Vietnamese people would overcome difficulties, recover and return to normal life soon.  VNS

Youths aid storm-hit residents in HaTinh

Nearly 5,000 members of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU) in the central province of Ha Tinh on Sunday helped local residents address the consequences of typhoon Doksuri.

Nearly 2,000 of them helped repair schools, healthcare stations, clear traffic jams and clean beaches in Nghi Xuan, Loc Ha, Cam Xuyen and Ky Anh districts.

Youths from Huong Son, Huong Khe, Vu Quang, Thach Ha districts and Ha Tinh city helped clean roads and repair electricity networks and damaged roofs.

Young people also presented 110 packages of necessities and cash worth VN20 million in total to residents in Ky Phu Commune of Ky Anh District and Ky Ha Commune of Ky Anh Town.

On Saturday, nearly 1,850 young volunteers were mobilised to help clean the environment, overcome storm consequences, and prepare measures against post-storm rains.

Nguyen The Hoan, secretary of the HCYU of Ha Tinh Province said the work will continue in the coming days to help local people stabilise their lives.  VNS
By Quynh Trung

KUALA LUMPUR  Tran Thi Chang, president of the Vietnamese womens club in Malaysia, was worried. More and more Vietnamese children were growing up in the country, but there was no Vietnamese class for them to learn their mother tongue.

Efforts by Chang and several members of the club resulted in the first free Vietnamese class that opened last October in the living room of a flat on the second floor of the Pangsapuri Permai Puteri apartment building in Selangor.

Teaching language-teaching culture

On a sunny summer afternoon, nine Vietnamese children, some mixed Vietnamese-Chinese or Vietnamese-Malaysian, sat around a big table in the living room. Hands on the table next to their Vietnamese textbooks, the five- to eight-year-olds looked attentively at the teacher, Pham Hong Lam, who was explaining the lesson on a white board.

Truc Linh, the class-flats owner, said the 90-minute language classes were held twice a week. One class usually started at 2.30-4pm for some 13 students unable as yet to read and write Vietnamese, and another class of about eight to 10 more advanced students runs from 4.30-6pm.

Lam is a volunteer teacher along with six other members of the Vietnamese womens club in Malaysia. They help the two main teachers, who used to be teachers of the Le Hong Phong and Trung Vuong high schools in HCM City.

The class is supported by the Vietnamese embassy in Malaysia, and Vietnamese parents buy the textbooks. Most of the volunteer teachers are educated women who had good jobs in Viet Nam, but had to leave their careers behind to move with their husbands who went to work in Malaysia.

The teachers here used to work as doctors, professors, teachers back in Viet Nam. Hence we got together to teach Vietnamese to the children, so that the human resource was not to be wasted, Lam joked.

Lam and her family have been living abroad for nearly a decade, three years in Canada and another six in Malaysia.

I have two children. My elder daughter is now a college junior while my son is in high school. The daughter can speak Vietnamese fluently, but not the son. That is what I regret, said Lam, who was the former laboratory manager of Nike in Viet Nam.

Lam believes teaching the Vietnamese language also means teaching Vietnamese culture to the children. The children also get to wear ao dai (traditional dress) and sing traditional Vietnamese songs during festivals and events, she said.

There has been a sharp increase in the number of Vietnamese coming to work in Malaysia, most of them manual workers who hardly have time to teach Vietnamese to their own children, the Vietnamese womens club chairwoman Tran Thi Chang said.

The preservation of the mother tongue in the Vietnamese community in Malaysia has yet to receive proper attention, despite the fact that language is one of the most important connecting links between a generation of young Vietnamese born and growing up overseas and the culture and traditions of their home country, Chang added.

According to the Department of Overseas Labour Management, hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese have worked in Malaysia since Viet Nam started sending workers there 15 years ago, at times reaching up to 130,000.

Children study at a free Vietnamese class in Malaysia.  VNS Photo Quynh Trung

Vietnamese parents support

Nhi Ca, a mother of three from the coastal province of Ninh Thuan, is married to an oil company worker in Malaysia. Their twins were just two years old when they moved there. Another daughter was born in Malaysia, and after six years there, the three were barely able to read or write Vietnamese.

The children can only study in international schools in English. I decided to take the kids here (to the Vietnamese class) so that they can use Vietnamese to talk with their grandparents and read Vietnamese fairy tales and books when they come back to Viet Nam, Ca said. After taking the class, they now can write, listen and understand Vietnamese much better.

Another Vietnamese mother, Chau Thi Diem Kieu, also took her two children to the class. The kids, 11 and nine years old, were of Vietnamese-Chinese origin and attended a Chinese school in Malaysia.

At school, my children study three languages: English, Chinese and Malay. Though their study schedule was so tight, I still decided to let them take the Vietnamese class so that they wont forget their home countrys language. My husband also supported the decision, Kieu said.

Truc Linh, owner of the house where the classes are held, says the classes sometimes disturb her family life but the demand and the necessity were so high that she could not refuse the Vietnamese womens club request to borrow her living room.

More and more parents are asking to send their children to the class, Linh said, but her living room was not large enough and the study materials are limited. We hope to receive more support from Vietnamese agencies and kind-hearted donors to be able to expand the Vietnamese class to other areas in Malaysia in order to sustain the Vietnamese language and culture for a younger Vietnamese generation, Chang said.  VNS
HA NOI  The Police General Department has suspended 13 jail officers for negligence that resulted in the escape of two death-row prisoners from a prison in Ha Noi last week.

Following the incident, the Ministry of Public Security ordered 13 officials, including the jail superintendent, correctional officers and guards of the T16 detention centre in Ha Nois Thanh Oai District from where the prisoners escaped, to review their mistakes.

The ministry on Saturday also appointed a new prison superintendent.

The prisoners, Le Van Tho and Nguyen Van Tinh, were held in the same cell at the T16 detention centre and were awaiting their execution.

Both were sentenced to death for involvement in narcotics and other crimes.

The police arrested them again on Saturday and Sunday.

Initial investigations showed that the two prisoners broke their shackles while correctional officers were not paying attention and tunneled their way out of the cell at midnight last Sunday.

False information

Police in the northern province of Quang Ninhs Ha Long City are completing a dossier to penalise a man for providing false information on the two dangerous inmates to a competent State agency.

Last Thursday, oan Van Tinh, 36, a taxi driver from Uong Bi City, reported to the police that he carried two young men with similar characteristics as the two escaped prisoners from Ha Long City to Thai Binh Provinces ong Hung District.

On the way to Thai Binh, one prisoner robbed his phone and then forced him to take them in his taxi.

However, the investigation agency clarified Tinhs statements were concocted to serve his personal purposes.

According to the local police, recently, the city had witnessed cases where some individuals were reporting false information about robberies to the police.

These fake reports have caused confusion among the people, creating negative public opinion on security and order in the locality and have also led to time being wasted on verification by the authorities.

The investigation agency will complete the documents to penalise the above individuals.  VNS
WELLINGTON  Thousands of airline passengers were stranded in Auckland on Monday after a pipeline leak cut jet fuel supplies to New Zealands largest airport, forcing planes to remain grounded, authorities said.

The pipeline operator, Refining NZ, said repairs would take at least a week, possibly two, raising the prospect of ongoing major disruption.

Air New Zealand said 2,000 passengers were affected by flight cancellations on Monday alone as it attempted to minimise fuel usage.

It said the leak meant fuel supplies at Auckland airport were down to 30 per cent of normal capacity and some long-haul flights were having to make additional refuelling stops in Brisbane and Fiji.

"Aviation is a critical transport industry and the lifeblood for tourism. We are naturally extremely disappointed with this infrastructure failure," the airline said.

Refining NZ said it believed the pipeline from its refinery to the airport was accidentally damaged by a digger and a 30-strong team was working around the clock to fix the pipe.

But the danger posed by spilled fuel was slowing progress.

"We need to be absolutely clear that it is safe to work in before we can start welding in the new section of pipe," it said.

Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett said it was not the governments fault that such an important piece of infrastructure had been left so vulnerable.

"Its a private company that owns it and you would expect them to have better contingency plans," she told Radio New Zealand.

"(Its) a very rare occurrence, it hasnt happened for 30 years and we dont expect it to happen again."  AFP
Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading.

Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy
WATERLOO  A Waterloo man wanted for violating probation led authorities on a chase into the Cedar River on Sunday morning.

According to court records, Daniel Allen Reiners, 35, had a warrant for allegedly failing to meet with his probation officer after pleading to a misdemeanor marijuana charge in April.

On Sunday morning, a Black Hawk County sheriffs deputy spotted Reiners, 35, riding his bike along the river near the 18th Street bridge toward the downtown area around 10 a.m. He was carrying a backpack with two fishing poles.

The deputy radioed to have another officer intercept the bike at the 11th Street bridge, but Reiners allegedly turned around when he spotted the other officer. He headed toward the river, dropped his belongings on the bank and entered the river.

Waterloo firefighters attempted to launch a boat to assist, but the river was too shallow, and officers eventually arrested Reiners about half a mile downstream, court records state.

Authorities found a metal pipe with marijuana residue, a plastic bag with meth and syringes and a digital scale in his backpack.

Reiners was arrested on the warrant along with charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference. He bond was set at $10,600.
WATERLOO  A Waterloo teen has been detained on firearm charges after a Friday night shooting.

Police said William Isaac Rich, 17, left following an argument at 612 W. Eighth St. A short time later someone fired five shots at the home from the alley while the resident, Angello Ross, and his wife and 5-year-old son were on the back porch. No injuries were reported, but at least on bullet struck the home.

The following day, officers were called to a commotion in the parking lot behind the police station around 4 p.m. after two cars pulled up.

Police searched a green Buick LeSabre where Rich was seated and found a loaded 38-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver. The weapon had been reported stolen in Fort Dodge.

When officers attempted to detain him, he ran and was taken to the ground. He allegedly kicked the window out a squad car when police drove him to the jail, police said.

Rich, of 808 South St., was arrested for trafficking stolen weapons, two counts of carrying weapons, escape, going armed with intent and criminal mischief. He was charged as an adult.
CORALVILLE -- The No. 1 job of the governor is to raise wages and improve the standard of living for all working people, Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Cathy Glasson told a nationwide audience of progressives over the weekend.

Im truly sick and tired of working people in our state getting beat up, Glasson, a Coralville nurse and president of Service Employees International Union Local 199, told members of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee on a conference call Sunday.

She was referring to the Republican governor and GOP-controlled Legislature that gutted union rights, lowered wages, took away health care services from womens health and went on to privatize a Medicaid system that had worked and gave contracts to their corporate friends.

Glasson has been talking to Iowans around the state as she considered formally entering the race for the Democratic nomination for governor. She said what she learned is that working Iowans want a bold, progressive governor who is not going to be a sellout to corporations and CEOs  someone who is not afraid to take on big challenges, make big plans and take bold, progressive steps.

Glasson participated in the PCCCs candidate training program over the summer. PCCC co-founder Adam Green called her a gut-level economic populist  (who) could end up being one of the top bold progressives running for governor this cycle.

More than just campaigning for governor, Glasson said shes building a bold, progressive movement so Iowans have a voice in government, and to give working people a reason to stand in line at the polls.

Iowans want Democrats who stand for big ideas, she said.

In fact, that to win an Iowa Democratic primary in 2018 and in 2020, candidates need to be a champion for big, bold populist economic ideas like Medicare-for-all, Glasson said. This is really about building a national movement across the country beyond 2018 and leading to the presidential cycle in 2020. Glasson said that as governor, her agenda would be raising the state minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 per hour, expanding union rights, passing universal, single-payer health care  on the state level if Congress wont enact a national Medicare-for-all plan  and making clean water the birthright of every Iowan.

She also wants to restore collective bargaining rights for teachers and other public employees. Glasson said she would demand the Republican-controlled Legislature, which increased K-12 funding by 1.11 percent  $40 million  this year, open the purse strings.

I would veto anything less than 4 percent school funding, she said. Thats what we used to do in the past, but now its not a priority anymore.

High state spending on schools is necessary to give teachers the pay raises they need so we can attract and retain quality educators.

Glasson has scheduled a campaign event at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the DoubleTree Hotel & Convention Center in downtown Cedar Rapids. Supporters around the state will gather at several locations at that time to watch her launch video before hitting the streets to canvass for Glasson. Among the locations are the Iowa City Public Library, Room E, 123 S. Linn St.; the Sioux City Public Library, 529 Pierce St.; Caribou Coffee, 3700 University Ave., Waterloo; and Stone Fountain, Vander Veer Park, Main and W. Lombard, Davenport.
DAVENPORT -- A last-minute attempt to replace the Affordable Care Act in the U.S. Senate has not yet won the endorsement of Iowa's two Republican senators, but the plan could be headed for a vote.

A new Republican bill, championed by Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., has resurrected the battle over health care in Washington, D.C., just weeks before the Nov. 1 enrollment period for Affordable Care Act markets is scheduled to open.

The legislation would revoke several parts of Obamacare, such as the one requiring individuals to buy insurance. It also would take funding from the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion, premium tax credits and cost-sharing reduction payments and put them into a block grant to be sent to states for health care spending.

Previous GOP plans brought to a vote this year have not included this block grant approach.

The plan's authors say the proposal will give states flexibility and, additionally, would redistribute Medicaid expansion money from some big states they say get too much, including California, Massachusetts and New York. Other states would benefit, including those that did not expand Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.

Critics say that, like other GOP proposals, the plan would mean millions fewer Americans would be insured. Expanded Medicaid eligibility would end on Dec. 31, 2019, in the new proposal. They also say states such as Iowa and Illinois would lose money relative to what they would receive under the Affordable Care Act.

So far, Iowa's two senators haven't said how they would vote.

"Senator Ernst is still going through and evaluating how this would impact Iowa," Leigh Claffey, a spokperson said Monday in an email.

In a statement, Sen. Chuck Grassley said Monday he, too, is still looking at the bill. But he said he likes that it "returns power to states and individuals," phases in changes and allows for alterations in the future.

"We need alternatives to Obamacare, which hasn't worked," Grassley said.

Ernst and Grassley have previously voted for Republican-written Obamacare replacement plans. Those proposals failed to get 50 votes in the Senate. In part, moderate Republicans refused to support them in the face of Congressional Budget Office estimates that millions fewer Americans would be insured under those proposals.

This latest attempt resembles those earlier plans in some ways. One of the most fundamental similarities is it that would change how traditional Medicaid is funded, switching it to a system that pays states on a per-capita basis. Currently, the program is open-ended, with the government funding approved expenses for those who qualify.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office hasn't weighed in on the new plan yet. However, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, which has been critical of GOP plans, says taking the block grant and per capita provisions together, Iowa would lose $525 million in 2026. Illinois would lose $1.4 billion in 2026, it said. The organization also said the bill would disrupt individual markets.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds didn't pass judgment on the bill. But in a statement, her spokesperson, Brenna Smith, pointed favorably to the 1990s-era block grant system that replaced the existing federal welfare program, which she said is a model that works.

"If Congress pursues block grants, the governor believes they need to adequately fund them and provide maximum flexibility and control for states to sustain their Medicaid programs," Smith said.

Republicans are seeking to get a bill to the Senate floor before the end of the month, enabling legislation to pass with just a majority. After that, Senate rules will require 60 votes.

Since the major provisions of the Affordable Care Act kicked in, Iowa's rate of uninsured has been reduced by about half. However, for people who do not get subsidies or Medicaid, premiums have increased significantly. Meanwhile, just one company, Medica, has said it would be willing to sell policies in Iowa's marketplace next year and only with markedly higher premiums from this year.
DES MOINES  Low-income Iowans hoping to get health insurance through a federal program may not have as much help as has been available in recent years, health care officials and experts warn.

The federal government recently announced significant reductions for advertising and staffing designated to help individuals sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, saying previous funding levels were extraneous.

Local health care officials said they are concerned the reduction will hamper efforts to reach low-income Iowans who wish to obtain health insurance under the federal program, or to educate those who may not be aware they are eligible for the program and its financial assistance.

We dont know (the impact) yet, but people are worried, said Karen Pollitz, a senior fellow who studies health care reform at the Kaiser Family Foundation, a national nonprofit devoted to health care issues.

Under the federal Affordable Care Act, which was created in 2009 under Democratic former President Barack Obama, low-income individuals are able to purchase health insurance plans and receive financial assistance to help pay for monthly premiums.

Through the rest of Obamas tenure, which ended in early 2017, the federal health department created extensive advertising and funded staff across the country to inform individuals about the law and help eligible people sign up for health insurance.

On Aug. 31, Republican President Donald Trumps administration announced it will significantly reduce spending on both the sign-up staff  known as navigators  and advertising ahead of this years enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1 through Dec. 15.

The administration will grant $37 million for navigators, down from $63 million in 2016, and plans to spend $10 million on advertising and promotional materials. That is one-tenth the $100 million spent by the Obama administration in 2016.

The health department, in literature distributed to reporters, cited navigators who received large grants but enrolled few individuals.

The administration said it will fund navigators only to match their enrollment levels the previous year. For example, the federal health department said, a navigator who reached only 30 percent of its enrollment goal the previous year will receive no more than 30 percent of that previous years funding.

Judging effectiveness by the amount of money spent and not the results achieved is irresponsible and unhelpful to the American people, federal health department press secretary Caitlin Oakley said in an emailed statement. Under the Trump administration, were committed to more responsible, effective government. Obamacares navigator program has been ineffective. During the upcoming enrollment period, navigators will be funded in proportion to their performance.

But local health care officials who help individuals enroll for health insurance under the law say the loss of navigators could fall on them, making it harder for them to reach people in need of assistance.

Many Iowans could lose access to those navigators and the free, in-person assistance they provided, said Katie Owens, engagement director for the Iowa Primary Care Association.

The association provides technical assistance and training to the states community health centers, which work with underserved communities. Community health centers have been crucial providers under the Affordable Care Act, and many have received grant funding through the law.

Owens also said navigators help cover gaps in rural areas of the state where community health centers are less likely to be able to meet the demand.

The decrease in navigators helping to educate consumers would be hurtful to Iowa, Owens said in an email.

Pollitz said uncertainty is being felt among navigator programs across the country, and in previous years funding was consistent and established Sept. 1 ahead of the enrollment period. This year, the spending reductions were announced Aug. 31.

(Navigator) programs, they dont know what to do. They dont know when theyre going to get paid, they dont know how much theyre going to get paid, they dont even know if when they get paid it will get paid retroactive back to Sept. 1, Pollitz said. So some smaller programs, theyve closed. (Or) theyve laid off staff.

The reduction in advertising likely will hamper local enrollment efforts as well, officials said. They said television and radio advertisements and mailed literature helped inform people about the law, its features and its enrollment deadlines.

The health department asserts there has been no proved correlation between advertising spending and enrollment figures.

Owens said without that advertising, community health centers may be forced to spend more time performing outreach and educating individuals, which could cost them time available to actually enroll people in the program.

We fear that many consumers will not know about the shortened dates for the open enrollment period, therefore resulting in our assisters spending more time trying to spread the word instead of actually enrolling consumers in coverage, Owens said.

Pollitz said even now the law is nearly 8 years old and has been in the news much of that time, education remains important because many people still do not understand the law or its features. She cited recent Kaiser polling that showed nearly 9 in 10 uninsured people either were unaware of enrollment deadlines or gave the wrong dates.

And the population that is eligible is constantly turning over, Pollitz noted, so new people every year become eligible for assistance under the law  for example young adults who are no longer eligible for coverage under their parents, older adults who retire before being eligible for Medicare or those who lose their employer-based insurance.

The outreach is never done. Its not like you tattoo somebody and then they know and they always know, Pollitz said. The outreach is always important.

In addition to paid advertising, the Obama administration would educate individuals on and promote the law through earned media  holding public events that were likely to be covered by media outlets, Pollitz noted.

The Trump administration has instead advocated for a complete overhaul of the Affordable Care Act and its features.

Oakley noted some of the laws shortcomings in her emailed response to questions about the outreach and advertising funding levels.

A health care system that has caused premiums to double and left nearly half of our counties with only one coverage option is not working, Oakley said. The Trump administration is determined to serve the American people instead of trying to sell them a bad deal.

That is likely to impact enrollment numbers, Pollitz said.

Now the administration is sort of using its profile and its bully pulpit to discourage enrollment, Pollitz said. Beyond the cuts, I think that was the other concern that this would create barriers to awareness or to enthusiasm about signing up that would need to be overcome in order for people to end up covered in open enrollment.
EVANSDALE  Iowas Bravest, the organization which supported local troops during various overseas military deployments over the past 15 years, is redoubling its efforts with a larger group of local Iowa Army National Guard soldiers now headed to the Middle East.

The group is seeking additional donations to purchase and assemble appreciation boxes of nonperishable, food, toiletries, games and other items to be distributed to deployed troops this holiday season.

Organizer Julie Ehlers said the group was preparing to support some 35 locally based Guard soldiers who deployed last month.

But now we have an additional 105 to support too, Ehlers said. We are asking for donations from our community in order to send appreciation boxes to our troops.

The community support for our troops, I really like that, Ehlers said of the help with past efforts. Im not looking forward to them going over, but its nice to be able to support them again.

The group needs monetary donations to cover postage and items for the boxes. Checks can be made out to Iowas Bravest and can be mailed to the Evansdale AMVETS, 706 Colleen Ave., Evansdale, 50707.

Donations of individually wrapped snack items, small gifts and letters of support also will be accepted.

Ehlers said the group is redoubling its efforts and putting an additional appeal to the community after it was announced last week a group of 100 Waterloo-based Iowa Army National Guard soldiers  part of a 500-soldier force from four states including 390 from Iowa  are being deployed to provide aviation support for the U.S. Central Command in the Middle East.

It is the largest overseas deployment since more than 3,300 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, including the Waterloo-headquartered 1st Battalion, 133rd Infantry regiment, were deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, Guard officials said. Iowas Bravest was heavily involved in supporting that deployment as well as earlier ones to Iraq. The group also previously supported other National Guard, Reserve and active duty personnel on deployment to Iraq, Afghanistan and in conjunction with Operation Enduring Freedom.

A sendoff for the 100 to-be-deployed Waterloo soldiers is set for 2 p.m. Sept. 29 at the West Gymnasium on the University of Northern Iowa campus. Other sendoffs are set that day for soldiers deploying from Davenport, Muscatine and Boone. All are elements of the Iowa Guards 248th Aviation Support Battalion.

The soldiers will go to Fort Hood, Texas, for additional training before being sent overseas. Such deployments typically last about a year.

The battalions mission is to provide aviation maintenance and logistical support to a combat aviation brigade, which includes aircraft diagnostics, repair, maintenance, refueling, medical support, supply support activities, ground maintenance and testing, officials said.

Units within the 248th ASB have previously mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2001-02, 2003 and 2004; Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008-09; and as part of a peacekeeping force in Kosovo in 2013-14.

In August, 35 soldiers with Detachment 1, Company C, 2-211th General Support Aviation Battalion in Waterloo also were deployed. The Iowa Guard has a helicopter air aviation support facility on Big Rock Road north of the Waterloo Regional Airport

Iowas Bravest has a Facebook page, and Ehlers can be contacted at 240-2254 or juliea58@mchsi.com.
CEDAR FALLS --- A dog swam out into the Cedar River to bark at a deer that was wading in the current Monday afternoon.

The scene under the Highway 57/First Street bridge --- with the black lab swimming around the young deer as a flock of uninterested Canada geese floated past --- drew a small crowd of onlookers from Gateway Park and the adjacent recreational trail on the northeast bank.

Police were notified, and officers found the dogs owner on the southwest shore. The owner told police the dog often plays in the river, and after a few minutes, the dog returned to dry land.
WATERLOO  First Presbyterian Church will host a series of presentations this fall on current health care issues faced by aging populations.

The sessions will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning Tuesday and extending through Oct. 24, with a different topic featured each night.

The programs will be in Calvin Hall at the church, 505 Franklin St. The public is welcome to attend at no cost, and no registration is required.

The program schedule includes:

Tuesday  Brain Care and Mental Health.

Sept. 26  Home Care and Lifelong Links.

Oct. 3  Caregiving and Families.

Oct. 10  How Do I Pay for Care?

Oct. 17  Transitioning to Facilities.

Oct. 24  Elder Abuse.

Questions may be directed to the Rev. Amy Wiles or Rev. Pat Geadelmann at the church office, 233-6145.
WATERLOO  Craig White regularly visits some friends at Paramount Park. He can be seen making a Catholic sign of the cross and pausing in silent prayer.

Two friends of his youth  Dave Hartogh and Dave Davis  are engraved on a black stone memorial  the Black Hawk County Vietnam Veterans Memorial. They are among the Black Hawk County residents killed during that war and honored on the memorial.

I go there almost every day, said White, a Black Hawk County supervisor who, like his deceased friends, served in Vietnam.

Hed like friends and neighbors from throughout the Cedar Valley to join him and take turns in a weekend vigil honoring county residents lost or missing in Vietnam  from 3 p.m. Sept. 29 through noon Oct. 1. There will be brief opening and closing ceremonies.

We have 15 hours of it filled. Theres a lot of slots left, said White. Hed like people to volunteer to take three-hour shifts so someone is there at all times during the 45-hour vigil  one hour for each of the 45 county residents killed or missing in Vietnam.

No one needs to be a Vietnam veteran, or veteran of any kind, to participate. Just anyone to pay respects to those who served and the POW-MIAs, White said, as well as their families.

The vigil began when the county memorial was erected in the mid-1980s. After a hiatus of several years, White revived the vigil in 2015. We had quite a few (veterans) from Iraq and Afghanistan help us. That was kind of nice, White said.

The county Vietnam memorial, a black monolith designed by Vietnam veteran R.J. Lundgren of Hudson, bears the names of all Black Hawk County residents killed in Vietnam and two more listed as missing in action, pilots Richard Ayers of Waterloo and Bill Whitford of Cedar Falls. It also includes a Medal of Honor winner, Robert Hibbs of Cedar Falls, a U.S. Army officer who was the first county resident to die in that war.

Paramount Park, in front of The Courier building at 100 E. Fourth St., was chosen as the location for the memorial because it is the old site of the Paramount Theatre, for which many local residents of the Vietnam generation hold fond memories.

Anyone interested in more information about Wednesdays meeting, the vigil or participating in it may call White at 215-7104.
Another round of election results came in, and once more Iowa Democrats proclaimed a foreshadowing victory.

Local school board elections were held across the state Tuesday, and the next day the Iowa Democratic Party celebrated victories by Democratic and progressive candidates.

Party officials also said those victories suggest voter backlash against the Republican-led Legislatures action earlier this year to strip most benefits for which public employees may collectively bargain. Those victories portend more Democratic electoral success to come, they reasoned.

Across the state, we saw Iowans stand up for public education, Iowa Democratic Party chairman Troy Price said in a news release. This is only the beginning. Democrats are ready to win at the municipal level this November, then take back seats from the Statehouse to the courthouse in 2018.

The victory proclamation is not unlike what Democrats offered after an August special election for a southeastern Iowa seat in the state House. Even though the seat had been held by a Democrat for years, Democrats celebrated the victory because Trump carried the district in 2016.

That special election, Democrats said, indicate voters are turning on Trump and Republicans. A political scientist I interviewed for this column said it is perilous to use a legislative election to predict future election results, especially at the presidential level.

It seems similarly unlikely last weeks school board election results mean anything beyond who will serve on school boards.

Perhaps most noteworthy is school board elections are not partisan. Candidates do not declare a political party.

And there is the matter of turnout, which is dramatically low for school board elections, often in the single digits. I asked the Scott, Black Hawk, Woodbury and Cerro Gordo county auditors about turnout for this weeks school board elections; none were higher than 7 percent.

But Democrats are reeling after disastrous 2014 and 2016 election cycles, and they feel some grassroots momentum in the wake of the 2016 elections and the actions taken by the GOP-led White House and Congress, and in Iowa the GOP-led governors mansion and Iowa Legislature.

So when Democrats celebrate school board elections, it may be more about keeping their voters excited about whats happening and whats to come.

But its probably not reasonable to predict Democratic waves in 2018 and 2020 based on a couple of local elections this year.

Monuments

Recently I reported on Iowas two Confederate monuments, both in southeastern Iowa, in the context of the national discussion over whether such monuments should be removed from public places. That debate was ignited by events in Virginia, where on Aug. 11 and 12 white supremacists protested the removal of a Confederate statue and clashed with counterprotesters, leaving one dead.

The University of Virginias Center for Politics recently teamed with Reuters/Ipsos on a national poll that found a majority of Americans  57 percent  said Confederate monuments should remain in public spaces. Just a quarter  26 percent  of respondents said those monuments should be removed.

But there is a distinct difference when the results are broken down by race.

Among black Americans, 54 percent said Confederate monuments should be removed and just 25 percent said they should remain.

Among white Americans, two-thirds  67 percent  said the monuments should remain, while just 19 percent said they should be removed.

The poll surveyed 5,360 people from Aug. 21 through Sept. 5.

Hunger Summit

Tom Vilsack, the former Iowa governor and U.S. ag secretary, will return to Iowa next month to participate in a panel discussion with the five most recent U.S. ag secretaries.

The event is part of the World Food Prizes Hunger Summit in Des Moines.

Vilsack will be joined by fellow former ag secretaries Dan Glickman, Ann Veneman, Mike Johanns and Ed Schafer. The discussion will take place at 9:15 a.m. Monday, Oct. 16, at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott and will focus on food insecurity.

It is not often that you have so much experience in leading American agriculture in one place and at one time, Vilsack said in a news release.

Those who wish to attend may register for the free event at iowahungersummit.org.
The master matrix is the Iowa Department of Natural Resources scoring system designed to bring county government into the process of locating large concentrated animal feeding operations.

It is supposed to protect neighbors and the environment but has proven to be an ineffective device that gives county supervisors very little to do or say. And it ties the hands of the Iowa DNR as well.

More than 97 percent of proposed facilities get approved, even when counties object because of community complaints and/or adverse environmental impacts on vulnerable lands and waterways.

Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement and Food & Water Watch have petitioned the DNR to revise and update the master matrix to give local communities a real role in approving or rejecting CAFOs. The first chance of taking up this detailed revision is at todays meeting of the Environmental Protection Commission.

There is widespread concern in rural Iowa about CAFO growth and impact. Seventeen Iowa counties have taken action similar to Dickinson County Board of Supervisors asking the governor and Legislature to address the failings of the Master Matrix to protect the air, water, health, quality of life and economic interests of the citizens we were elected to represent.

In their petition, the Dickinson County supervisors seek a moratorium on any CAFO construction permits until such time as corrective new legislation regarding the Master Matrix can be adopted.

This is not the first time counties have shown their displeasure. Three of them went to the Iowa Supreme Court only to lose against the state CAFO siting law. Just two years ago 23 counties responded to a survey of county supervisors stating they were unhappy with the present method of locating CAFOs.

In 2002, we were members of a study group from Iowa State University College of Agriculture and the University of Iowa College of Public Health tasked by Gov. Tom Vilsack to address public health and environmental impacts of CAFOs.

Our consensus executive summary cited scientific evidence of harm to humans from CAFO emissions, found specific regulatory action was warranted, that methods were available to mitigate CAFO emissions and statewide spatial planning and local siting guidelines were needed.

While the master matrix incorporated some potentially harmful impacts of CAFOs, local control clearly lost out to an industry pushing for largely unfettered growth.

In 2001, before the master matrix, there were 722 large DNR-permitted CAFOs of all types, 93 percent of which were hog CAFOs. Today, there are more than 3,000 large, DNR-permitted CAFOs. But the real number of CAFOs of all sizes, according to DNRs 2016 report to the EPA, is over 14,000 with more than 5,000 new CAFOs recently identified only via satellite imagery.

In the last 15 years, many new studies have documented even more adverse impacts of CAFOs: on water quality, impaired waterways, fish kills and a substantial contribution to the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico.

CAFOs have a detrimental effect on the publics health, including antibiotic resistance and disease, epidemic and pandemic influenza, and asthma and airway obstruction. There are adverse impacts on quality-of-life among CAFO neighbors, negative economic impacts on land values and a redirection of rural development and rural community viability.

The entire process of approving animal confinement facilities needs to be changed. The petition by Iowa CCI and Food & Water Watch offers state regulators an opportunity to engage county supervisors and their constituents in a statewide dialogue leading to fair and sustainable policy.
When we began covering the first Honor Flights out of the Waterloo Regional Airport, they were filled with aging World War II veterans.

On the Honor Flight last week, there was just one veteran from that war, fought by those whom Tom Brokaw later dubbed the Greatest Generation.

An inevitable changeover has largely occurred, which brings mixed feelings. Seeing the number of World War II vets sharply dwindle is hard; yet were extremely grateful to see this wonderful program sustained for other veterans of other wars.

The events turned out to be great successes for the World War II veterans. Gradually, we began to see the change, with a good portion of participants becoming Korean War veterans, and now Vietnam vets.

While the oldest veterans still have preference, its heartening to see the program extended to the Vietnam era.

Since 2010, Cedar Valley Honor Flight has been flying military veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials and landmarks in the nations Capitol.

Last week marked the 19th flight out of Waterloo, each complete with a sendoff and a welcome home attended by cheering family members, friends and other supporters.

The flights, at no cost to the veterans, are a whirlwind one-day excursion to the Capitol to see the National World War II memorial, the Korea and Vietnam memorials, as well as Arlington National Cemetery.

Along the way, weve enjoyed seeing nonprofit organizations, businesses and individuals step up with financial support for these flights.

Every Honor Flight that has originated from Waterloo has proven to be a stirring and successful experience for veterans from this region. Understandably, there are emotional moments.

Those moments arent limited to the veterans. It can be a deeply moving experience for those accompanying the honorees. Merelyn Evans of Blue Earth, Minn., who will turn 90 next month, was the lone WWII vet on the latest flight. His son Randy, of Charles City, had long wanted to participate in the flight with his father. He got a little emotional while trying to sum up what the trip meant to him.

More than you know, he said. Its the dream of a lifetime.

Linda Bergmann is one of the Honor Flight organizers. The flight was her 14th, and she has been part of the staff for 12 of those.

This is a chance, especially for Vietnam vets who came home with a lot of stuff, to just lay it down, she said. A lot of them wouldnt come on their own. This is how the country really feels about them.

Years ago, we editorialized in this space that it was our hope Vietnam veterans would get this opportunity. Many of those who served in the Vietnam War received no public welcome home.

These differing wars may have had differing missions, but they shared a common denominator: Brave soldiers fighting on behalf of our nation.

The Honor Flight concept has blossomed and has served many veterans across the country. Its up to all of us to see that these flights continue for as long as the need is here. The objective of the program has always been to get as many aging veterans as possible to Washington to see their national memorials and accept the thanks of a grateful nation.
By The Associated Press

By The Associated Press Sep. 17, 2017 | 01:52 PM | ST. LOUIS, MO

Authorities say four of the nine people arrested overnight during protests in the St. Louis suburb of University City will face felony destruction of property charges.

The St. Louis County Police Department said Sunday that among those arrested were two male minors. The other seven ranged in age from 22 to 37 years old.

The other charges protesters face include misdemeanor rioting charges, and one person was charged with assaulting a police officer. Two of those arrested were charged only with failing to disperse.

Protesters destroyed shop windows Saturday night in the Delmar Loop area of University City.

The protests follow Friday's acquittal of a white former St. Louis police officer in the 2011 killing of a black man following a high-speed chase.

More demonstrations are expected on Sunday.
past daily news Sep 13 (1) Sep 09 (15) Sep 06 (12) Sep 04 (10) Sep 03 (10) Aug 31 (17) Aug 29 (14) Aug 26 (13) Aug 22 (11) Aug 21 (12) Aug 19 (21) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (10) Aug 10 (10) Aug 08 (9) Aug 07 (10) Aug 06 (10) Aug 05 (8) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (14) Jul 29 (1) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (5) Jul 24 (10) Jul 22 (11) Jul 19 (16) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (10) Jul 15 (13) Jul 12 (7) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (8) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (8) Jul 04 (11) Jul 03 (8) Jul 02 (7) Jul 01 (5) Jun 30 (8) Jun 28 (7) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (7) Jun 25 (8) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (9) Jun 20 (5) Jun 19 (9) Jun 18 (8) Jun 15 (9) Jun 13 (13) Jun 11 (11) Jun 09 (19) Jun 06 (10) Jun 04 (10) Jun 03 (8) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (5) May 30 (5) May 29 (6) May 28 (7) May 27 (7) May 26 (6) May 25 (4) May 23 (6) May 22 (6) May 21 (4) May 20 (7) May 19 (9) May 18 (4) May 17 (6) May 16 (5) May 15 (7) May 14 (3) May 13 (3) May 12 (9) May 10 (3) May 09 (7) May 08 (4) May 07 (3) May 06 (5) May 05 (8) May 03 (9) May 02 (1) May 01 (5) Apr 30 (8) Apr 29 (5) Apr 28 (4) Apr 27 (7) Apr 26 (12) Apr 25 (4) Apr 24 (8) Apr 23 (7) Apr 22 (5) Apr 21 (3) Apr 20 (1) Apr 19 (5) Apr 18 (3) Apr 17 (6) Apr 16 (6) Apr 15 (5) Apr 14 (2) Apr 13 (4) Apr 12 (2) Apr 11 (4) Apr 10 (3) Apr 09 (3) Apr 08 (3) Apr 07 (5) Apr 06 (3) Apr 05 (10) Apr 04 (2) Apr 03 (3) Apr 02 (9) Apr 01 (7) Mar 31 (10) Mar 30 (6) Mar 29 (7) Mar 28 (5) Mar 27 (3) Mar 26 (10) Mar 25 (4) Mar 24 (5) Mar 23 (10) Mar 22 (6) Mar 21 (5) Mar 20 (11) Mar 19 (8) Mar 18 (5) Mar 17 (4) Mar 16 (11) Mar 15 (10) Mar 14 (7) Mar 13 (7) Mar 12 (5) Mar 11 (3) Mar 10 (3) Mar 09 (5) Mar 08 (6) Mar 07 (8) Mar 06 (6) Mar 05 (12) Mar 04 (6) Mar 03 (8) Mar 02 (6) Mar 01 (8) Feb 28 (7) Feb 27 (5) Feb 26 (6) Feb 25 (7) Feb 24 (3) Feb 23 (6) Feb 22 (4) Feb 21 (3) Feb 20 (1) Feb 19 (6) Feb 18 (4) Feb 17 (4) Feb 16 (2) Feb 15 (5) Feb 14 (3) Feb 13 (6) Feb 12 (6) Feb 11 (4) Feb 10 (6) Feb 09 (6) Feb 08 (4) Feb 07 (6) Feb 06 (4) Feb 05 (2) Feb 04 (3) Feb 03 (5) Feb 02 (1) Feb 01 (4) Jan 31 (8) Jan 30 (2) Jan 29 (4) Jan 28 (1) Jan 27 (4) Jan 26 (7) Jan 25 (4) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (8) Jan 21 (2) Jan 20 (2) Jan 19 (3) Jan 18 (4) Jan 17 (2) Jan 16 (7) Jan 15 (6) Jan 14 (4) Jan 13 (6) Jan 12 (5) Jan 11 (4) Jan 10 (5) Jan 09 (4) Jan 08 (5) Jan 07 (4) Jan 05 (5) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (3) Jan 02 (2) Jan 01 (1) Dec 31 (5) Dec 29 (4) Dec 28 (5) Dec 26 (3) Dec 25 (2) Dec 24 (3) Dec 23 (2) Dec 22 (4) Dec 21 (4) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (3) Dec 18 (2) Dec 17 (1) Dec 16 (4) Dec 15 (2) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (7) Dec 12 (5) Dec 11 (4) Dec 10 (3) Dec 09 (2) Dec 08 (2) Dec 07 (4) Dec 06 (4) Dec 05 (1) Dec 04 (5) Dec 03 (3) Dec 02 (5) Dec 01 (6) Nov 30 (5) Nov 29 (10) Nov 28 (6) Nov 27 (2) Nov 26 (3) Nov 24 (2) Nov 23 (5) Nov 22 (4) Nov 21 (3) Nov 20 (6) Nov 19 (2) Nov 18 (5) Nov 17 (5) Nov 16 (3) Nov 15 (2) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (2) Nov 11 (4) Nov 10 (5) Nov 09 (4) Nov 08 (5) Nov 07 (5) Nov 06 (5) Nov 05 (4) Nov 04 (5) Nov 02 (4) Nov 01 (4) Oct 31 (9) Oct 30 (9) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (2) Oct 27 (6) Oct 26 (6) Oct 25 (6) Oct 24 (3) Oct 23 (6) Oct 22 (4) Oct 20 (3) Oct 19 (6) Oct 18 (5) Oct 17 (5) Oct 16 (4) Oct 15 (5) Oct 14 (2) Oct 13 (4) Oct 12 (7) Oct 11 (5) Oct 10 (4) Oct 09 (5) Oct 08 (10) Oct 07 (1) Oct 06 (10) Oct 05 (6) Oct 04 (8) Oct 03 (3) Oct 02 (4) Oct 01 (6) Sep 30 (5) Sep 29 (1) Sep 28 (6) Sep 27 (6) Sep 26 (5) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (6) Sep 23 (5) Sep 22 (7) Sep 21 (6) Sep 20 (6) Sep 19 (5) Sep 18 (3) Sep 17 (5) Sep 16 (5) Sep 15 (5) Sep 14 (6) Sep 13 (4) Sep 12 (5) Sep 11 (7) Sep 10 (6) Sep 09 (5) Sep 08 (3) Sep 07 (4) Sep 06 (8) Sep 05 (6) Sep 04 (7) Sep 03 (3) Sep 02 (4) Sep 01 (5) Aug 31 (8) Aug 30 (6) Aug 29 (6) Aug 28 (6) Aug 27 (1) Aug 26 (4) Aug 25 (3) Aug 24 (7) Aug 23 (4) Aug 22 (4) Aug 21 (4) Aug 20 (7) Aug 18 (5) Aug 17 (8) Aug 16 (8) Aug 15 (4) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (5) Aug 12 (4) Aug 11 (2) Aug 10 (5) Aug 09 (4) Aug 08 (8) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (3) Aug 05 (4) Aug 04 (4) Aug 03 (10) Aug 02 (9) Aug 01 (8) Jul 31 (1) Jul 30 (3) Jul 29 (2) Jul 28 (11) Jul 27 (10) Jul 26 (10) Jul 25 (7) Jul 24 (5) Jul 23 (3) Jul 22 (2) Jul 21 (7) Jul 20 (10) Jul 19 (8) Jul 18 (7) Jul 17 (1) Jul 16 (10) Jul 14 (7) Jul 13 (6) Jul 12 (11) Jul 11 (7) Jul 10 (5) Jul 09 (6) Jul 08 (5) Jul 07 (8) Jul 06 (4) Jul 05 (6) Jul 04 (6) Jul 03 (7) Jul 02 (6) Jul 01 (2) Jun 30 (7) Jun 29 (7) Jun 28 (5) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (5) Jun 25 (6) Jun 23 (4) Jun 22 (4) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (8) Jun 18 (2) Jun 17 (3) Jun 16 (4) Jun 15 (3) Jun 14 (7) Jun 13 (4) Jun 12 (7) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (2) Jun 09 (8) Jun 08 (8) Jun 07 (8) Jun 06 (10) Jun 05 (14) Jun 04 (6) Jun 03 (6) Jun 02 (8) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (7) May 30 (2) May 29 (7) May 28 (7) May 27 (2) May 26 (4) May 25 (5) May 24 (4) May 23 (5) May 22 (5) May 21 (5) May 20 (3) May 19 (10) May 18 (6) May 17 (3) May 16 (6) May 15 (2) May 14 (3) May 13 (5) May 11 (1) May 10 (5) May 09 (3) May 08 (4) May 07 (2) May 06 (4) May 05 (6) May 04 (5) May 03 (5) May 02 (1) May 01 (6) Apr 30 (6) Apr 29 (7) Apr 28 (8) Apr 27 (9) Apr 26 (14) Apr 25 (6) Apr 24 (6) Apr 23 (7) Apr 22 (1) Apr 21 (8) Apr 20 (3) Apr 19 (6) Apr 18 (4) Apr 17 (7) Apr 16 (1) Apr 15 (8) Apr 14 (1) Apr 13 (7) Apr 12 (10) Apr 11 (7) Apr 10 (2) Apr 09 (2) Apr 08 (4) Apr 07 (3) Apr 06 (6) Apr 05 (6) Apr 04 (9) Apr 03 (4) Apr 02 (5) Apr 01 (2) Mar 31 (5) Mar 30 (4) Mar 29 (8) Mar 28 (5) Mar 27 (9) Mar 26 (4) Mar 25 (5) Mar 24 (11) Mar 23 (10) Mar 22 (9) Mar 21 (10) Mar 20 (11) Mar 19 (5) Mar 18 (7) Mar 17 (3) Mar 16 (7) Mar 15 (6) Mar 14 (6) Mar 13 (9) Mar 12 (6) Mar 11 (3) Mar 10 (3) Mar 09 (5) Mar 08 (6) Mar 07 (13) Mar 06 (6) Mar 05 (3) Mar 04 (7) Mar 03 (4) Mar 02 (5) Mar 01 (6) Feb 28 (6) Feb 27 (4) Feb 26 (5) Feb 25 (6) Feb 24 (6) Feb 23 (9) Feb 22 (6) Feb 21 (7) Feb 20 (8) Feb 19 (6) Feb 18 (3) Feb 17 (4) Feb 16 (6) Feb 15 (5) Feb 14 (7) Feb 13 (5) Feb 12 (3) Feb 11 (4) Feb 10 (5) Feb 09 (9) Feb 08 (8) Feb 07 (7) Feb 06 (10) Feb 05 (7) Feb 04 (2) Feb 03 (8) Feb 02 (7) Feb 01 (5) Jan 31 (4) Jan 30 (4) Jan 29 (7) Jan 28 (3) Jan 27 (7) Jan 26 (8) Jan 25 (6) Jan 24 (6) Jan 23 (5) Jan 22 (4) Jan 21 (6) Jan 20 (8) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (8) Jan 17 (12) Jan 16 (5) Jan 15 (4) Jan 14 (8) Jan 12 (6) Jan 11 (6) Jan 10 (7) Jan 09 (4) Jan 08 (6) Jan 07 (4) Jan 06 (6) Jan 05 (9) Jan 04 (9) Jan 03 (4) Jan 02 (6) Jan 01 (8) Dec 31 (2) Dec 30 (1) Dec 29 (5) Dec 28 (4) Dec 27 (8) Dec 26 (4) Dec 24 (5) Dec 23 (7) Dec 22 (12) Dec 21 (4) Dec 20 (7) Dec 19 (3) Dec 18 (5) Dec 17 (3) Dec 16 (1) Dec 15 (7) Dec 14 (10) Dec 13 (7) Dec 12 (12) Dec 10 (3) Dec 09 (6) Dec 08 (7) Dec 07 (12) Dec 06 (6) Dec 05 (13) Dec 04 (6) Dec 02 (8) Dec 01 (8) Nov 30 (6) Nov 29 (7) Nov 28 (7) Nov 27 (4) Nov 26 (8) Nov 24 (2) Nov 23 (5) Nov 22 (11) Nov 21 (7) Nov 20 (3) Nov 19 (10) Nov 18 (7) Nov 17 (6) Nov 16 (11) Nov 15 (10) Nov 14 (7) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (5) Nov 11 (12) Nov 10 (4) Nov 09 (14) Nov 08 (10) Nov 07 (11) Nov 06 (8) Nov 05 (5) Nov 04 (11) Nov 03 (9) Nov 02 (10) Nov 01 (8) Oct 31 (12) Oct 30 (5) Oct 29 (5) Oct 28 (5) Oct 27 (11) Oct 26 (13) Oct 25 (9) Oct 24 (10) Oct 23 (8) Oct 22 (5) Oct 21 (11) Oct 20 (8) Oct 19 (6) Oct 18 (5) Oct 17 (5) Oct 16 (6) Oct 15 (4) Oct 14 (9) Oct 13 (10) Oct 12 (11) Oct 11 (9) Oct 10 (10) Oct 09 (7) Oct 08 (5) Oct 07 (10) Oct 06 (9) Oct 05 (14) Oct 04 (9) Oct 03 (12) Oct 02 (4) Oct 01 (9) Sep 30 (5) Sep 29 (7) Sep 28 (13) Sep 27 (10) Sep 26 (11) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (9) Sep 23 (7) Sep 22 (10) Sep 21 (12) Sep 20 (12) Sep 19 (4) Sep 18 (5) Sep 17 (7) Sep 16 (11) Sep 15 (8) Sep 14 (5) Sep 13 (8) Sep 12 (8) Sep 11 (6) Sep 10 (10) Sep 09 (5) Sep 08 (9) Sep 07 (8) Sep 06 (11) Sep 05 (2) Sep 04 (8) Sep 03 (2) Sep 02 (6) Sep 01 (9) Aug 31 (9) Aug 30 (7) Aug 29 (9) Aug 28 (4) Aug 27 (8) Aug 26 (6) Aug 25 (5) Aug 24 (8) Aug 23 (4) Aug 22 (5) Aug 21 (2) Aug 20 (4) Aug 19 (6) Aug 18 (4) Aug 17 (4) Aug 16 (6) Aug 15 (3) Aug 14 (4) Aug 13 (7) Aug 12 (6) Aug 11 (3) Aug 10 (5) Aug 09 (8) Aug 08 (9) Aug 07 (7) Aug 06 (7) Aug 05 (7) Aug 04 (7) Aug 03 (11) Aug 02 (6) Aug 01 (9) Jul 31 (11) Jul 28 (7) Jul 27 (11) Jul 26 (5) Jul 25 (5) Jul 24 (1) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (2) Jul 20 (9) Jul 19 (8) Jul 18 (6) Jul 17 (7) Jul 15 (4) Jul 14 (2) Jul 13 (6) Jul 12 (10) Jul 11 (11) Jul 10 (2) Jul 09 (3) Jul 08 (5) Jul 07 (5) Jul 06 (6) Jul 05 (3) Jul 04 (6) Jul 03 (5) Jul 02 (3) Jun 30 (8) Jun 29 (5) Jun 28 (6) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (4) Jun 25 (1) Jun 24 (5) Jun 23 (11) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (5) Jun 19 (7) Jun 17 (4) Jun 16 (7) Jun 15 (4) Jun 14 (6) Jun 13 (4) Jun 12 (4) Jun 11 (6) Jun 10 (6) Jun 09 (8) Jun 08 (6) Jun 07 (8) Jun 06 (7) Jun 05 (5) Jun 04 (7) Jun 03 (1) Jun 02 (9) Jun 01 (5) May 31 (8) May 30 (7) May 29 (5) May 28 (5) May 27 (4) May 26 (4) May 25 (4) May 24 (3) May 23 (5) May 22 (2) May 21 (3) May 20 (7) May 19 (11) May 18 (1) May 17 (7) May 16 (3) May 15 (4) May 14 (3) May 13 (4) May 12 (4) May 11 (11) May 10 (2) May 09 (6) May 08 (6) May 07 (2) May 06 (3) May 05 (4) May 04 (5) May 03 (8) May 02 (4) May 01 (4) Apr 30 (6) Apr 29 (13) Apr 28 (5) Apr 27 (7) Apr 26 (5) Apr 25 (5) Apr 24 (2) Apr 23 (7) Apr 22 (9) Apr 21 (11) Apr 20 (2) Apr 19 (2) Apr 18 (5) Apr 17 (5) Apr 16 (6) Apr 14 (5) Apr 13 (2) Apr 12 (9) Apr 11 (10) Apr 10 (6) Apr 09 (5) Apr 08 (3) Apr 07 (10) Apr 06 (7) Apr 05 (7) Apr 04 (7) Apr 03 (9) Mar 31 (12) Mar 30 (9) Mar 29 (7) Mar 28 (4) Mar 27 (3) Mar 26 (6) Mar 25 (3) Mar 24 (8) Mar 23 (7) Mar 22 (4) Mar 21 (10) Mar 20 (6) Mar 19 (6) Mar 17 (7) Mar 16 (11) Mar 15 (6) Mar 14 (9) Mar 13 (4) Mar 12 (6) Mar 10 (3) Mar 09 (9) Mar 08 (10) Mar 07 (4) Mar 06 (5) Mar 05 (3) Mar 04 (2) Mar 03 (4) Mar 02 (5) Mar 01 (5) Feb 28 (3) Feb 27 (8) Feb 26 (9) Feb 24 (11) Feb 23 (8) Feb 22 (9) Feb 21 (8) Feb 20 (7) Feb 19 (4) Feb 18 (9) Feb 17 (6) Feb 16 (5) Feb 15 (7) Feb 14 (11) Feb 13 (2) Feb 12 (5) Feb 11 (5) Feb 10 (3) Feb 09 (10) Feb 08 (9) Feb 07 (9) Feb 06 (2) Feb 05 (9) Feb 03 (7) Feb 02 (5) Feb 01 (7) Jan 31 (4) Jan 30 (5) Jan 29 (6) Jan 28 (5) Jan 27 (2) Jan 26 (7) Jan 25 (7) Jan 24 (8) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (14) Jan 20 (8) Jan 19 (10) Jan 18 (11) Jan 17 (9) Jan 16 (5) Jan 15 (3) Jan 14 (9) Jan 13 (6) Jan 12 (7) Jan 11 (7) Jan 10 (2) Jan 09 (7) Jan 08 (6) Jan 07 (10) Jan 06 (8) Jan 05 (7) Jan 04 (9) Jan 03 (8) Jan 02 (5) Jan 01 (14) Dec 30 (13) Dec 29 (13) Dec 28 (9) Dec 27 (5) Dec 26 (4) Dec 25 (7) Dec 24 (4) Dec 23 (5) Dec 22 (4) Dec 21 (8) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (8) Dec 18 (9) Dec 16 (8) Dec 15 (5) Dec 14 (5) Dec 13 (8) Dec 12 (4) Dec 11 (17) Dec 09 (8) Dec 08 (5) Dec 07 (10) Dec 06 (12) Dec 05 (6) Dec 04 (8) Dec 02 (6) Dec 01 (7) Nov 30 (9) Nov 29 (6) Nov 28 (11) Nov 27 (6) Nov 26 (15) Nov 24 (7) Nov 23 (15) Nov 22 (9) Nov 21 (6) Nov 20 (11) Nov 18 (11) Nov 17 (13) Nov 16 (8) Nov 15 (13) Nov 14 (7) Nov 13 (7) Nov 12 (3) Nov 11 (13) Nov 10 (13) Nov 09 (6) Nov 08 (9) Nov 07 (6) Nov 06 (4) Nov 05 (12) Nov 04 (8) Nov 03 (9) Nov 02 (8) Nov 01 (6) Oct 31 (10) Oct 30 (8) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (8) Oct 27 (15) Oct 26 (10) Oct 25 (10) Oct 24 (13) Oct 23 (9) Oct 21 (8) Oct 20 (13) Oct 19 (6) Oct 18 (11) Oct 17 (8) Oct 16 (14) Oct 14 (9) Oct 13 (11) Oct 12 (9) Oct 11 (13) Oct 10 (7) Oct 09 (15) Oct 07 (7) Oct 06 (11) Oct 05 (18) Oct 04 (14) Oct 03 (1) Oct 02 (10) Sep 30 (11) Sep 29 (11) Sep 28 (11) Sep 27 (15) Sep 26 (7) Sep 24 (9) Sep 23 (11) Sep 22 (7) Sep 21 (17) Sep 20 (20) Sep 19 (4) Sep 18 (11) Sep 16 (10) Sep 15 (12) Sep 14 (9) Sep 13 (12) Sep 12 (14) Sep 11 (4) Sep 10 (8) Sep 09 (9) Sep 08 (5) Sep 07 (13) Sep 06 (15) Sep 05 (8) Sep 04 (11) Sep 03 (10) Sep 02 (12) Sep 01 (12) Aug 31 (14) Aug 30 (14) Aug 29 (8) Aug 28 (8) Aug 27 (9) Aug 26 (12) Aug 25 (6) Aug 24 (8) Aug 23 (12) Aug 22 (6) Aug 21 (5) Aug 20 (6) Aug 19 (9) Aug 18 (4) Aug 17 (7) Aug 16 (11) Aug 15 (2) Aug 14 (12) Aug 12 (15) Aug 11 (11) Aug 10 (6) Aug 09 (7) Aug 08 (3) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (5) Aug 05 (7) Aug 04 (7) Aug 03 (4) Aug 02 (5) Aug 01 (5) Jul 31 (7) Jul 30 (5) Jul 29 (9) Jul 28 (8) Jul 27 (8) Jul 26 (7) Jul 25 (6) Jul 23 (8) Jul 22 (6) Jul 21 (5) Jul 20 (9) Jul 19 (5) Jul 18 (15) Jul 15 (14) Jul 14 (5) Jul 13 (6) Jul 12 (12) Jul 11 (8) Jul 10 (3) Jul 09 (11) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (7) Jul 06 (10) Jul 05 (4) Jul 04 (4) Jul 03 (5) Jul 02 (7) Jul 01 (8) Jun 30 (7) Jun 29 (10) Jun 28 (8) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (5) Jun 25 (4) Jun 24 (2) Jun 23 (11) Jun 22 (5) Jun 21 (7) Jun 20 (3) Jun 19 (7) Jun 18 (10) Jun 17 (11) Jun 16 (5) Jun 15 (5) Jun 14 (7) Jun 13 (14) Jun 11 (6) Jun 10 (8) Jun 09 (9) Jun 08 (11) Jun 07 (14) Jun 06 (16) Jun 03 (8) Jun 02 (12) Jun 01 (5) May 31 (7) May 30 (15) May 28 (7) May 27 (5) May 26 (21) May 25 (14) May 24 (10) May 23 (7) May 22 (8) May 21 (11) May 20 (5) May 19 (4) May 18 (10) May 17 (11) May 16 (5) May 15 (6) May 14 (7) May 13 (12) May 12 (10) May 11 (7) May 10 (13) May 09 (4) May 08 (7) May 07 (3) May 06 (6) May 05 (9) May 04 (14) May 03 (7) May 02 (10) May 01 (10) Apr 30 (6) Apr 29 (9) Apr 28 (5) Apr 27 (9) Apr 26 (8) Apr 25 (8) Apr 24 (6) Apr 23 (14) Apr 22 (16) Apr 21 (11) Apr 20 (7) Apr 19 (16) Apr 18 (8) Apr 17 (7) Apr 16 (10) Apr 15 (8) Apr 14 (5) Apr 13 (11) Apr 12 (10) Apr 11 (8) Apr 10 (12) Apr 09 (5) Apr 08 (13) Apr 07 (9) Apr 06 (11) Apr 05 (15) Apr 04 (7) Apr 03 (15) Apr 02 (5) Apr 01 (11) Mar 31 (12) Mar 30 (10) Mar 29 (8) Mar 28 (7) Mar 27 (12) Mar 26 (8) Mar 25 (8) Mar 24 (7) Mar 23 (15) Mar 22 (17) Mar 21 (9) Mar 20 (8) Mar 19 (4) Mar 18 (16) Mar 17 (8) Mar 16 (19) Mar 15 (13) Mar 14 (7) Mar 13 (20) Mar 11 (5) Mar 10 (11) Mar 09 (13) Mar 08 (13) Mar 07 (7) Mar 06 (6) Mar 05 (9) Mar 04 (10) Mar 03 (16) Mar 02 (16) Mar 01 (13) Feb 29 (8) Feb 28 (6) Feb 27 (16) Feb 26 (10) Feb 25 (6) Feb 24 (12) Feb 23 (14) Feb 22 (9) Feb 21 (11) Feb 20 (8) Feb 19 (12) Feb 18 (12) Feb 17 (11) Feb 16 (8) Feb 15 (9) Feb 14 (7) Feb 13 (10) Feb 12 (11) Feb 11 (13) Feb 10 (5) Feb 09 (6) Feb 08 (4) Feb 07 (9) Feb 06 (13) Feb 05 (10) Feb 04 (11) Feb 03 (7) Feb 02 (19) Jan 31 (21) Jan 29 (11) Jan 28 (10) Jan 27 (13) Jan 26 (7) Jan 25 (5) Jan 24 (2) Jan 23 (8) Jan 22 (13) Jan 21 (11) Jan 20 (9) Jan 19 (13) Jan 18 (4) Jan 17 (11) Jan 15 (7) Jan 14 (13) Jan 13 (9) Jan 12 (9) Jan 11 (5) Jan 10 (8) Jan 09 (7) Jan 08 (7) Jan 07 (6) Jan 06 (11) Jan 05 (7) Jan 04 (7) Jan 03 (3) Jan 02 (8) Jan 01 (5) Dec 31 (10) Dec 30 (9) Dec 29 (7) Dec 28 (9) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (1) Dec 25 (5) Dec 24 (6) Dec 23 (6) Dec 22 (7) Dec 21 (6) Dec 20 (7) Dec 19 (13) Dec 18 (16) Dec 17 (10) Dec 16 (13) Dec 15 (11) Dec 14 (8) Dec 13 (4) Dec 12 (9) Dec 11 (10) Dec 10 (12) Dec 09 (10) Dec 08 (13) Dec 07 (7) Dec 06 (12) Dec 05 (8) Dec 04 (11) Dec 03 (12) Dec 02 (16) Dec 01 (14) Nov 30 (10) Nov 29 (11) Nov 28 (15) Nov 27 (16) Nov 26 (11) Nov 25 (9) Nov 24 (13) Nov 23 (10) Nov 22 (1) Nov 21 (7) Nov 20 (12) Nov 19 (10) Nov 18 (11) Nov 17 (11) Nov 16 (10) Nov 15 (3) Nov 14 (10) Nov 13 (14) Nov 12 (8) Nov 11 (13) Nov 10 (10) Nov 09 (6) Nov 08 (9) Nov 07 (11) Nov 06 (12) Nov 05 (17) Nov 04 (12) Nov 03 (11) Nov 02 (5) Nov 01 (12) Oct 31 (11) Oct 30 (11) Oct 29 (10) Oct 28 (18) Oct 27 (16) Oct 26 (11) Oct 25 (9) Oct 24 (12) Oct 23 (11) Oct 22 (14) Oct 21 (12) Oct 20 (17) Oct 19 (12) Oct 18 (13) Oct 17 (15) Oct 16 (14) Oct 15 (10) Oct 14 (16) Oct 13 (12) Oct 12 (13) Oct 11 (8) Oct 10 (12) Oct 09 (21) Oct 08 (22) Oct 07 (19) Oct 06 (18) Oct 05 (6) Oct 04 (17) Oct 03 (13) Oct 02 (14) Oct 01 (13) Sep 30 (14) Sep 29 (15) Sep 28 (12) Sep 27 (11) Sep 26 (15) Sep 25 (13) Sep 24 (9) Sep 23 (10) Sep 22 (12) Sep 21 (8) Sep 20 (4) Sep 19 (12) Sep 18 (12) Sep 17 (16) Sep 16 (21) Sep 15 (14) Sep 14 (7) Sep 13 (5) Sep 12 (10) Sep 11 (16) Sep 10 (7) Sep 09 (8) Sep 08 (10) Sep 07 (7) Sep 06 (5) Sep 05 (8) Sep 04 (9) Sep 03 (8) Sep 02 (11) Sep 01 (10) Aug 31 (4) Aug 30 (6) Aug 29 (1) Aug 28 (10) Aug 27 (8) Aug 26 (8) Aug 25 (14) Aug 24 (4) Aug 23 (3) Aug 22 (5) Aug 21 (13) Aug 20 (9) Aug 19 (13) Aug 18 (3) Aug 17 (3) Aug 16 (3) Aug 15 (6) Aug 14 (8) Aug 13 (7) Aug 12 (12) Aug 11 (9) Aug 10 (8) Aug 09 (14) Aug 08 (6) Aug 07 (1) Aug 06 (4) Aug 05 (8) Aug 04 (6) Aug 03 (6) Aug 02 (2) Aug 01 (6) Jul 31 (6) Jul 30 (3) Jul 29 (6) Jul 28 (8) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (4) Jul 24 (6) Jul 23 (5) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (7) Jul 20 (5) Jul 18 (6) Jul 17 (5) Jul 16 (4) Jul 15 (9) Jul 14 (2) Jul 13 (8) Jul 12 (1) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (8) Jul 09 (3) Jul 08 (3) Jul 07 (13) Jul 05 (2) Jul 04 (5) Jul 03 (6) Jul 02 (6) Jul 01 (7) Jun 30 (7) Jun 29 (3) Jun 28 (1) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (7) Jun 25 (4) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (9) Jun 22 (4) Jun 21 (3) Jun 19 (4) Jun 18 (7) Jun 17 (7) Jun 16 (7) Jun 15 (11) Jun 12 (6) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (10) Jun 09 (3) Jun 08 (3) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (2) Jun 05 (9) Jun 04 (8) Jun 03 (9) Jun 02 (6) Jun 01 (4) May 30 (7) May 29 (9) May 28 (13) May 26 (8) May 25 (5) May 24 (2) May 23 (8) May 22 (9) May 21 (7) May 20 (4) May 19 (6) May 18 (7) May 17 (8) May 15 (9) May 14 (5) May 13 (8) May 12 (6) May 11 (6) May 09 (7) May 08 (6) May 07 (11) May 06 (7) May 05 (4) May 04 (11) May 03 (5) May 02 (4) May 01 (9) Apr 30 (6) Apr 29 (4) Apr 28 (9) Apr 27 (4) Apr 26 (3) Apr 25 (5) Apr 24 (3) Apr 23 (10) Apr 22 (8) Apr 21 (9) Apr 20 (3) Apr 19 (4) Apr 18 (8) Apr 17 (7) Apr 16 (4) Apr 15 (6) Apr 14 (8) Apr 13 (3) Apr 12 (6) Apr 10 (2) Apr 09 (4) Apr 08 (5) Apr 07 (5) Apr 06 (2) Apr 05 (2) Apr 04 (5) Apr 03 (7) Apr 02 (7) Apr 01 (12) Mar 31 (12) Mar 30 (3) Mar 29 (1) Mar 28 (2) Mar 27 (6) Mar 26 (2) Mar 25 (5) Mar 24 (4) Mar 23 (7) Mar 22 (4) Mar 21 (6) Mar 20 (9) Mar 19 (9) Mar 18 (8) Mar 17 (9) Mar 16 (7) Mar 15 (11) Mar 13 (5) Mar 12 (12) Mar 11 (9) Mar 10 (12) Mar 09 (4) Mar 08 (5) Mar 07 (5) Mar 06 (5) Mar 05 (5) Mar 04 (6) Mar 03 (11) Mar 02 (5) Mar 01 (8) Feb 27 (9) Feb 26 (9) Feb 25 (8) Feb 24 (6) Feb 23 (4) Feb 22 (3) Feb 21 (6) Feb 20 (3) Feb 19 (10) Feb 18 (9) Feb 17 (7) Feb 16 (5) Feb 15 (2) Feb 14 (8) Feb 13 (12) Feb 12 (8) Feb 11 (10) Feb 10 (7) Feb 09 (6) Feb 08 (3) Feb 07 (2) Feb 06 (7) Feb 05 (4) Feb 04 (11) Feb 03 (5) Feb 02 (7) Feb 01 (4) Jan 31 (5) Jan 30 (8) Jan 29 (12) Jan 28 (6) Jan 27 (8) Jan 26 (13) Jan 24 (8) Jan 23 (12) Jan 22 (8) Jan 21 (10) Jan 20 (8) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (9) Jan 17 (6) Jan 16 (4) Jan 15 (11) Jan 14 (4) Jan 13 (6) Jan 12 (7) Jan 11 (6) Jan 10 (2) Jan 09 (6) Jan 08 (5) Jan 07 (6) Jan 06 (4) Jan 05 (4) Jan 04 (3) Jan 03 (6) Jan 02 (2) Jan 01 (3) Dec 31 (6) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (6) Dec 28 (4) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (2) Dec 25 (3) Dec 24 (5) Dec 23 (7) Dec 22 (5) Dec 21 (4) Dec 20 (4) Dec 19 (5) Dec 18 (8) Dec 17 (5) Dec 16 (9) Dec 15 (7) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (10) Dec 12 (10) Dec 11 (9) Dec 10 (10) Dec 09 (11) Dec 08 (5) Dec 07 (5) Dec 06 (6) Dec 05 (9) Dec 04 (3) Dec 03 (8) Dec 02 (10) Dec 01 (6) Nov 30 (1) Nov 29 (3) Nov 28 (9) Nov 27 (3) Nov 26 (7) Nov 25 (12) Nov 24 (3) Nov 23 (8) Nov 22 (4) Nov 21 (3) Nov 20 (12) Nov 19 (6) Nov 18 (10) Nov 17 (12) Nov 16 (5) Nov 15 (5) Nov 14 (12) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (7) Nov 11 (8) Nov 10 (7) Nov 09 (6) Nov 08 (5) Nov 07 (5) Nov 06 (6) Nov 05 (12) Nov 04 (9) Nov 03 (6) Nov 02 (14) Nov 01 (3) Oct 31 (6) Oct 30 (7) Oct 29 (9) Oct 28 (9) Oct 27 (3) Oct 26 (6) Oct 25 (9) Oct 24 (8) Oct 23 (4) Oct 22 (3) Oct 21 (4) Oct 20 (2) Oct 19 (11) Oct 17 (6) Oct 16 (7) Oct 15 (7) Oct 14 (8) Oct 13 (5) Oct 12 (8) Oct 11 (6) Oct 10 (5) Oct 09 (11) Oct 08 (10) Oct 07 (8) Oct 06 (3) Oct 05 (7) Oct 04 (8) Oct 03 (3) Oct 02 (10) Oct 01 (3) Sep 30 (7) Sep 29 (6) Sep 28 (5) Sep 27 (8) Sep 26 (11) Sep 25 (11) Sep 24 (15) Sep 23 (8) Sep 22 (9) Sep 21 (4) Sep 20 (8) Sep 19 (9) Sep 18 (10) Sep 17 (10) Sep 16 (5) Sep 15 (5) Sep 14 (7) Sep 13 (5) Sep 12 (5) Sep 11 (8) Sep 10 (6) Sep 09 (7) Sep 08 (5) Sep 07 (2) Sep 06 (4) Sep 05 (7) Sep 04 (11) Sep 03 (7) Sep 02 (7) Sep 01 (2) Aug 31 (3) Aug 30 (1) Aug 29 (10) Aug 28 (5) Aug 27 (4) Aug 26 (10) Aug 25 (6) Aug 24 (9) Aug 22 (11) Aug 21 (8) Aug 20 (12) Aug 19 (8) Aug 18 (4) Aug 17 (4) Aug 16 (3) Aug 15 (6) Aug 14 (4) Aug 13 (7) Aug 12 (8) Aug 11 (7) Aug 10 (12) Aug 08 (5) Aug 07 (6) Aug 06 (6) Aug 05 (8) Aug 04 (5) Aug 03 (4) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (6) Jul 30 (12) Jul 29 (4) Jul 28 (5) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (7) Jul 24 (8) Jul 23 (8) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (8) Jul 20 (6) Jul 19 (3) Jul 18 (8) Jul 17 (2) Jul 16 (7) Jul 15 (6) Jul 14 (9) Jul 13 (10) Jul 11 (9) Jul 10 (8) Jul 09 (3) Jul 08 (7) Jul 07 (7) Jul 06 (7) Jul 05 (10) Jul 04 (4) Jul 03 (6) Jul 02 (6) Jul 01 (8) Jun 30 (5) Jun 29 (6) Jun 28 (1) Jun 27 (15) Jun 26 (10) Jun 25 (9) Jun 24 (16) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (12) Jun 20 (6) Jun 19 (8) Jun 18 (10) Jun 17 (6) Jun 16 (7) Jun 15 (5) Jun 14 (5) Jun 13 (13) Jun 12 (7) Jun 11 (14) Jun 10 (3) Jun 09 (2) Jun 08 (2) Jun 07 (7) Jun 06 (16) Jun 05 (7) Jun 04 (18) Jun 03 (12) Jun 02 (8) May 31 (3) May 30 (6) May 29 (6) May 28 (7) May 27 (4) May 26 (4) May 25 (6) May 23 (4) May 22 (8) May 21 (5) May 20 (6) May 19 (2) May 18 (9) May 17 (1) May 16 (5) May 15 (5) May 14 (7) May 13 (7) May 12 (7) May 11 (4) May 10 (4) May 09 (5) May 08 (10) May 07 (4) May 06 (13) May 05 (4) May 04 (10) May 02 (2) May 01 (5) Apr 30 (9) Apr 29 (6) Apr 28 (3) Apr 27 (4) Apr 26 (9) Apr 25 (9) Apr 24 (7) Apr 23 (11) Apr 22 (7) Apr 21 (3) Apr 20 (10) Apr 19 (6) Apr 18 (5) Apr 17 (6) Apr 16 (6) Apr 15 (7) Apr 14 (11) Apr 13 (4) Apr 12 (5) Apr 11 (9) Apr 10 (4) Apr 09 (6) Apr 08 (6) Apr 07 (3) Apr 06 (6) Apr 05 (10) Apr 03 (9) Apr 02 (9) Apr 01 (12) Mar 31 (4) Mar 30 (9) Mar 29 (10) Mar 28 (7) Mar 27 (8) Mar 26 (8) Mar 25 (15) Mar 24 (11) Mar 23 (8) Mar 22 (7) Mar 21 (14) Mar 20 (6) Mar 19 (11) Mar 18 (11) Mar 17 (12) Mar 16 (8) Mar 15 (8) Mar 14 (13) Mar 13 (8) Mar 12 (10) Mar 11 (8) Mar 10 (7) Mar 09 (3) Mar 08 (12) Mar 07 (15) Mar 06 (16) Mar 05 (9) Mar 04 (6) Mar 03 (12) Mar 02 (20) Feb 28 (11) Feb 27 (8) Feb 26 (11) Feb 25 (6) Feb 24 (14) Feb 23 (5) Feb 22 (6) Feb 21 (8) Feb 20 (11) Feb 19 (7) Feb 18 (4) Feb 17 (8) Feb 16 (11) Feb 15 (3) Feb 14 (10) Feb 13 (4) Feb 12 (10) Feb 11 (7) Feb 10 (7) Feb 09 (4) Feb 08 (6) Feb 07 (5) Feb 06 (4) Feb 05 (10) Feb 04 (5) Feb 03 (4) Feb 02 (4) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (3) Jan 30 (5) Jan 29 (2) Jan 28 (6) Jan 27 (3) Jan 26 (2) Jan 25 (5) Jan 24 (7) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (4) Jan 21 (5) Jan 20 (5) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (7) Jan 17 (6) Jan 16 (4) Jan 15 (3) Jan 14 (5) Jan 13 (4) Jan 12 (5) Jan 11 (3) Jan 10 (5) Jan 09 (6) Jan 08 (6) Jan 07 (3) Jan 06 (1) Jan 05 (4) Jan 04 (5) Jan 03 (3) Jan 02 (6) Jan 01 (2) Dec 31 (6) Dec 30 (1) Dec 29 (5) Dec 27 (1) Dec 26 (2) Dec 25 (4) Dec 24 (8) Dec 23 (2) Dec 22 (1) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (8) Dec 18 (3) Dec 17 (4) Dec 16 (3) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (4) Dec 11 (4) Dec 10 (7) Dec 09 (5) Dec 08 (2) Dec 07 (5) Dec 06 (6) Dec 05 (10) Dec 04 (9) Dec 03 (4) Dec 02 (2) Dec 01 (8) Nov 29 (5) Nov 28 (7) Nov 27 (5) Nov 26 (9) Nov 25 (3) Nov 24 (5) Nov 23 (6) Nov 22 (5) Nov 21 (12) Nov 20 (12) Nov 19 (10) Nov 18 (4) Nov 17 (3) Nov 16 (8) Nov 15 (7) Nov 14 (7) Nov 13 (6) Nov 12 (12) Nov 11 (6) Nov 10 (3) Nov 09 (4) Nov 08 (10) Nov 07 (5) Nov 06 (5) Nov 05 (9) Nov 04 (4) Nov 03 (4) Nov 02 (3) Nov 01 (3) Oct 31 (10) Oct 30 (4) Oct 29 (11) Oct 28 (3) Oct 27 (7) Oct 26 (7) Oct 25 (6) Oct 24 (7) Oct 23 (11) Oct 22 (2) Oct 21 (7) Oct 20 (4) Oct 19 (6) Oct 18 (7) Oct 17 (5) Oct 16 (8) Oct 15 (5) Oct 14 (5) Oct 13 (3) Oct 12 (7) Oct 11 (20) Oct 10 (2) Oct 09 (4) Oct 08 (21) Oct 07 (20) Oct 06 (34) Oct 04 (24) Oct 03 (21) Oct 02 (3) Oct 01 (7) Sep 30 (3) Sep 29 (5) Sep 28 (6) Sep 27 (5) Sep 26 (6) Sep 25 (5) Sep 24 (2) Sep 23 (8) Sep 22 (4) Sep 21 (3) Sep 20 (9) Sep 19 (11) Sep 18 (5) Sep 17 (7) Sep 16 (6) Sep 15 (3) Sep 14 (7) Sep 13 (8) Sep 12 (11) Sep 11 (7) Sep 10 (6) Sep 09 (5) Sep 08 (3) Sep 07 (6) Sep 06 (10) Sep 05 (7) Sep 04 (7) Sep 03 (5) Sep 02 (4) Sep 01 (8) Aug 31 (5) Aug 30 (7) Aug 29 (10) Aug 28 (7) Aug 27 (6) Aug 26 (6) Aug 25 (3) Aug 24 (8) Aug 23 (6) Aug 22 (6) Aug 21 (8) Aug 20 (8) Aug 19 (4) Aug 18 (2) Aug 17 (5) Aug 16 (7) Aug 15 (4) Aug 14 (3) Aug 13 (4) Aug 12 (6) Aug 11 (6) Aug 10 (4) Aug 09 (8) Aug 08 (6) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (6) Aug 05 (4) Aug 04 (12) Aug 03 (3) Aug 02 (4) Aug 01 (10) Jul 31 (3) Jul 30 (7) Jul 29 (3) Jul 28 (6) Jul 27 (4) Jul 26 (5) Jul 25 (4) Jul 24 (7) Jul 23 (10) Jul 22 (8) Jul 21 (5) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (7) Jul 18 (9) Jul 17 (10) Jul 16 (11) Jul 15 (5) Jul 13 (5) Jul 12 (9) Jul 11 (11) Jul 10 (12) Jul 09 (6) Jul 08 (5) Jul 07 (8) Jul 06 (9) Jul 05 (10) Jul 04 (8) Jul 03 (10) Jul 02 (12) Jul 01 (8) Jun 30 (5) Jun 29 (6) Jun 28 (23) Jun 27 (18) Jun 26 (12) Jun 25 (14) Jun 24 (15) Jun 23 (11) Jun 22 (11) Jun 21 (15) Jun 20 (9) Jun 19 (8) Jun 18 (11) Jun 17 (7) Jun 16 (6) Jun 15 (6) Jun 14 (6) Jun 13 (5) Jun 12 (6) Jun 11 (9) Jun 10 (10) Jun 09 (9) Jun 08 (6) Jun 07 (2) Jun 06 (6) Jun 05 (4) Jun 04 (3) Jun 03 (4) Jun 02 (3) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (3) May 30 (5) May 29 (8) May 28 (7) May 27 (2) May 26 (2) May 25 (8) May 24 (7) May 23 (6) May 22 (9) May 21 (6) May 20 (5) May 19 (6) May 18 (9) May 17 (10) May 16 (11) May 15 (5) May 14 (11) May 13 (6) May 12 (7) May 11 (7) May 10 (5) May 09 (3) May 08 (10) May 07 (8) May 06 (11) May 05 (5) May 04 (9) May 03 (3) May 02 (2) May 01 (5) Apr 30 (5) Apr 29 (8) Apr 28 (6) Apr 27 (4) Apr 26 (9) Apr 25 (11) Apr 24 (4) Apr 23 (11) Apr 22 (7) Apr 21 (5) Apr 20 (7) Apr 19 (10) Apr 18 (8) Apr 17 (10) Apr 16 (8) Apr 15 (4) Apr 14 (5) Apr 13 (7) Apr 12 (11) Apr 11 (6) Apr 10 (7) Apr 09 (6) Apr 08 (3) Apr 07 (3) Apr 06 (9) Apr 05 (10) Apr 04 (7) Apr 03 (2) Apr 02 (6) Apr 01 (4) Mar 31 (3) Mar 30 (4) Mar 29 (3) Mar 28 (5) Mar 27 (10) Mar 26 (5) Mar 25 (4) Mar 24 (5) Mar 23 (7) Mar 22 (6) Mar 21 (9) Mar 20 (5) Mar 19 (5) Mar 18 (9) Mar 17 (2) Mar 16 (8) Mar 15 (10) Mar 14 (9) Mar 13 (10) Mar 12 (10) Mar 11 (2) Mar 10 (1) Mar 09 (6) Mar 08 (4) Mar 07 (4) Mar 06 (3) Mar 05 (3) Mar 04 (7) Mar 03 (6) Mar 02 (8) Mar 01 (9) Feb 28 (6) Feb 27 (3) Feb 26 (8) Feb 25 (7) Feb 24 (3) Feb 23 (4) Feb 22 (4) Feb 21 (7) Feb 20 (4) Feb 19 (4) Feb 18 (2) Feb 17 (1) Feb 16 (6) Feb 15 (6) Feb 14 (5) Feb 13 (4) Feb 12 (7) Feb 11 (2) Feb 10 (2) Feb 09 (5) Feb 08 (5) Feb 07 (9) Feb 06 (4) Feb 05 (9) Feb 04 (3) Feb 03 (3) Feb 02 (10) Feb 01 (9) Jan 31 (5) Jan 30 (8) Jan 29 (5) Jan 28 (3) Jan 27 (4) Jan 26 (5) Jan 25 (6) Jan 24 (5) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (8) Jan 21 (3) Jan 20 (3) Jan 19 (7) Jan 18 (3) Jan 17 (6) Jan 16 (8) Jan 15 (7) Jan 14 (9) Jan 13 (1) Jan 12 (7) Jan 11 (1) Jan 10 (3) Jan 09 (3) Jan 08 (5) Jan 07 (4) Jan 06 (2) Jan 05 (3) Jan 04 (5) Jan 03 (4) Jan 02 (4) Jan 01 (4) Dec 31 (3) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (5) Dec 28 (8) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (4) Dec 25 (2) Dec 24 (4) Dec 23 (4) Dec 22 (7) Dec 21 (5) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (6) Dec 17 (4) Dec 16 (5) Dec 15 (5) Dec 14 (8) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (6) Dec 11 (8) Dec 10 (5) Dec 09 (4) Dec 08 (4) Dec 07 (7) Dec 06 (7) Dec 05 (6) Dec 04 (6) Dec 03 (7) Dec 02 (1) Dec 01 (6) Nov 30 (2) Nov 29 (8) Nov 28 (16) Nov 27 (7) Nov 26 (5) Nov 25 (2) Nov 24 (6) Nov 23 (5) Nov 22 (5) Nov 21 (5) Nov 20 (15) Nov 19 (8) Nov 18 (2) Nov 17 (3) Nov 16 (5) Nov 15 (7) Nov 14 (6) Nov 13 (9) Nov 12 (7) Nov 11 (8) Nov 10 (3) Nov 09 (5) Nov 08 (8) Nov 07 (9) Nov 06 (9) Nov 05 (1) Nov 04 (4) Nov 03 (8) Nov 02 (6) Nov 01 (3) Oct 31 (6) Oct 30 (7) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (3) Oct 27 (4) Oct 26 (4) Oct 25 (8) Oct 24 (4) Oct 23 (1) Oct 22 (6) Oct 21 (1) Oct 20 (8) Oct 19 (6) Oct 18 (10) Oct 17 (6) Oct 16 (15) Oct 15 (4) Oct 14 (5) Oct 13 (3) Oct 12 (9) Oct 11 (7) Oct 10 (1) Oct 09 (5) Oct 08 (7) Oct 07 (3) Oct 06 (8) Oct 05 (5) Oct 04 (3) Oct 03 (7) Oct 02 (6) Oct 01 (6) Sep 30 (8) Sep 29 (6) Sep 28 (13) Sep 27 (10) Sep 26 (8) Sep 25 (8) Sep 24 (8) Sep 23 (3) Sep 22 (7) Sep 21 (9) Sep 20 (7) Sep 19 (8) Sep 18 (4) Sep 17 (3) Sep 16 (4) Sep 15 (8) Sep 14 (5) Sep 13 (7) Sep 12 (7) Sep 11 (9) Sep 10 (4) Sep 09 (10) Sep 08 (4) Sep 07 (12) Sep 06 (13) Sep 05 (15) Sep 04 (5) Sep 03 (4) Sep 02 (6) Sep 01 (9) Aug 31 (7) Aug 30 (6) Aug 29 (8) Aug 28 (11) Aug 27 (2) Aug 26 (6) Aug 25 (15) Aug 24 (6) Aug 23 (8) Aug 22 (5) Aug 21 (6) Aug 20 (7) Aug 19 (2) Aug 18 (5) Aug 17 (5) Aug 16 (11) Aug 15 (4) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (9) Aug 12 (4) Aug 11 (5) Aug 10 (6) Aug 09 (5) Aug 08 (7) Aug 07 (9) Aug 06 (4) Aug 05 (4) Aug 04 (4) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (9) Aug 01 (10) Jul 31 (11) Jul 30 (4) Jul 29 (3) Jul 28 (11) Jul 27 (4) Jul 26 (7) Jul 25 (7) Jul 24 (4) Jul 23 (8) Jul 22 (5) Jul 21 (4) Jul 20 (10) Jul 19 (6) Jul 18 (9) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (7) Jul 15 (6) Jul 14 (4) Jul 13 (7) Jul 12 (8) Jul 11 (6) Jul 10 (14) Jul 09 (6) Jul 08 (5) Jul 07 (4) Jul 06 (9) Jul 05 (8) Jul 04 (5) Jul 03 (8) Jul 02 (5) Jul 01 (5) Jun 30 (6) Jun 29 (3) Jun 28 (3) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (8) Jun 25 (3) Jun 24 (5) Jun 23 (14) Jun 22 (11) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (8) Jun 19 (7) Jun 18 (4) Jun 17 (3) Jun 16 (12) Jun 15 (12) Jun 14 (10) Jun 13 (10) Jun 12 (9) Jun 11 (6) Jun 10 (12) Jun 09 (4) Jun 08 (3) Jun 07 (12) Jun 06 (6) Jun 05 (7) Jun 04 (6) Jun 03 (3) Jun 02 (4) Jun 01 (8) May 31 (4) May 30 (3) May 29 (8) May 28 (7) May 27 (4) May 26 (3) May 25 (5) May 24 (9) May 23 (16) May 22 (12) May 21 (11) May 20 (7) May 19 (10) May 18 (8) May 17 (8) May 16 (10) May 15 (8) May 14 (5) May 13 (1) May 12 (6) May 11 (9) May 10 (9) May 09 (10) May 08 (9) May 07 (6) May 06 (5) May 05 (7) May 04 (10) May 03 (7) May 02 (9) May 01 (10) Apr 30 (4) Apr 29 (9) Apr 28 (12) Apr 27 (9) Apr 26 (4) Apr 25 (5) Apr 24 (9) Apr 23 (4) Apr 22 (7) Apr 21 (8) Apr 20 (9) Apr 19 (6) Apr 18 (4) Apr 17 (2) Apr 16 (4) Apr 15 (10) Apr 14 (7) Apr 13 (5) Apr 12 (7) Apr 11 (7) Apr 10 (7) Apr 09 (6) Apr 08 (7) Apr 07 (10) Apr 06 (8) Apr 05 (8) Apr 04 (9) Apr 03 (6) Apr 02 (4) Apr 01 (4) Mar 31 (11) Mar 30 (12) Mar 29 (16) Mar 28 (8) Mar 27 (10) Mar 26 (12) Mar 25 (6) Mar 24 (9) Mar 23 (3) Mar 22 (12) Mar 21 (12) Mar 20 (14) Mar 19 (8) Mar 18 (7) Mar 17 (8) Mar 16 (4) Mar 15 (10) Mar 14 (9) Mar 13 (9) Mar 12 (6) Mar 11 (5) Mar 10 (13) Mar 09 (8) Mar 08 (10) Mar 07 (12) Mar 06 (6) Mar 05 (4) Mar 04 (2) Mar 03 (3) Mar 02 (12) Mar 01 (8) Feb 29 (11) Feb 28 (5) Feb 27 (3) Feb 26 (13) Feb 25 (10) Feb 24 (13) Feb 23 (10) Feb 22 (9) Feb 21 (18) Feb 20 (6) Feb 19 (7) Feb 18 (9) Feb 17 (5) Feb 16 (9) Feb 15 (7) Feb 14 (6) Feb 13 (5) Feb 12 (6) Feb 11 (4) Feb 10 (8) Feb 09 (5) Feb 08 (8) Feb 07 (10) Feb 06 (7) Feb 05 (7) Feb 04 (5) Feb 03 (11) Feb 02 (4) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (12) Jan 30 (7) Jan 29 (7) Jan 28 (7) Jan 27 (12) Jan 26 (7) Jan 25 (11) Jan 24 (4) Jan 23 (6) Jan 22 (8) Jan 21 (12) Jan 20 (11) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (6) Jan 17 (11) Jan 16 (9) Jan 15 (4) Jan 14 (3) Jan 13 (6) Jan 12 (9) Jan 11 (9) Jan 10 (10) Jan 09 (5) Jan 08 (10) Jan 07 (5) Jan 06 (6) Jan 05 (8) Jan 04 (5) Jan 03 (8) Jan 02 (7) Jan 01 (7) Dec 31 (10) Dec 30 (11) Dec 29 (6) Dec 28 (5) Dec 27 (10) Dec 26 (4) Dec 25 (5) Dec 24 (7) Dec 23 (2) Dec 22 (9) Dec 21 (8) Dec 20 (8) Dec 19 (5) Dec 18 (1) Dec 17 (5) Dec 16 (6) Dec 15 (5) Dec 14 (13) Dec 13 (8) Dec 12 (7) Dec 11 (9) Dec 10 (12) Dec 09 (7) Dec 08 (11) Dec 07 (9) Dec 06 (11) Dec 05 (10) Dec 04 (6) Dec 03 (8) Dec 02 (6) Dec 01 (14) Nov 30 (7) Nov 29 (8) Nov 28 (8) Nov 27 (6) Nov 26 (9) Nov 25 (10) Nov 24 (12) Nov 23 (10) Nov 22 (10) Nov 21 (10) Nov 20 (4) Nov 19 (4) Nov 18 (8) Nov 17 (9) Nov 16 (9) Nov 15 (12) Nov 14 (6) Nov 13 (9) Nov 12 (3) Nov 11 (9) Nov 10 (10) Nov 09 (10) Nov 08 (7) Nov 07 (8) Nov 06 (10) Nov 05 (8) Nov 04 (7) Nov 03 (10) Nov 02 (11) Nov 01 (10) Oct 31 (5) Oct 30 (8) Oct 29 (8) Oct 28 (8) Oct 27 (11) Oct 26 (6) Oct 25 (9) Oct 24 (10) Oct 23 (5) Oct 22 (14) Oct 21 (10) Oct 20 (8) Oct 19 (11) Oct 18 (13) Oct 17 (7) Oct 16 (6) Oct 15 (9) Oct 14 (7) Oct 13 (12) Oct 12 (13) Oct 11 (9) Oct 10 (8) Oct 09 (9) Oct 08 (7) Oct 07 (12) Oct 06 (8) Oct 05 (13) Oct 04 (11) Oct 03 (7) Oct 02 (5) Oct 01 (14) Sep 30 (12) Sep 29 (12) Sep 28 (11) Sep 27 (11) Sep 26 (7) Sep 25 (10) Sep 24 (3) Sep 23 (7) Sep 22 (8) Sep 21 (8) Sep 20 (8) Sep 19 (7) Sep 18 (5) Sep 17 (14) Sep 16 (7) Sep 15 (11) Sep 14 (13) Sep 13 (11) Sep 12 (9) Sep 11 (5) Sep 10 (4) Sep 09 (13) Sep 08 (11) Sep 07 (11) Sep 06 (16) Sep 05 (1) Sep 04 (10) Sep 03 (8) Sep 02 (8) Sep 01 (7) Aug 31 (1) Aug 30 (6) Aug 29 (2) Aug 28 (3) Aug 27 (6) Aug 26 (8) Aug 25 (5) Aug 24 (5) Aug 23 (6) Aug 22 (7) Aug 21 (6) Aug 20 (4) Aug 19 (9) Aug 18 (7) Aug 17 (7) Aug 16 (10) Aug 15 (2) Aug 14 (5) Aug 13 (5) Aug 12 (10) Aug 11 (5) Aug 10 (4) Aug 09 (8) Aug 08 (3) Aug 07 (5) Aug 06 (12) Aug 05 (5) Aug 04 (7) Aug 03 (6) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (14) Jul 31 (7) Jul 30 (7) Jul 29 (13) Jul 28 (10) Jul 27 (6) Jul 26 (7) Jul 25 (7) Jul 24 (4) Jul 23 (12) Jul 22 (14) Jul 21 (6) Jul 20 (9) Jul 19 (12) Jul 18 (9) Jul 17 (4) Jul 16 (6) Jul 15 (8) Jul 14 (15) Jul 13 (8) Jul 12 (10) Jul 11 (6) Jul 10 (6) Jul 09 (6) Jul 08 (6) Jul 07 (9) Jul 06 (15) Jul 05 (6) Jul 04 (10) Jul 03 (6) Jul 02 (6) Jul 01 (11) Jun 30 (7) Jun 29 (4) Jun 28 (8) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (5) Jun 25 (11) Jun 24 (9) Jun 23 (10) Jun 22 (8) Jun 21 (8) Jun 20 (6) Jun 19 (5) Jun 18 (15) Jun 17 (8) Jun 16 (13) Jun 15 (15) Jun 14 (11) Jun 13 (6) Jun 12 (15) Jun 11 (7) Jun 10 (7) Jun 09 (18) Jun 08 (20) Jun 07 (17) Jun 06 (9) Jun 05 (9) Jun 04 (12) Jun 03 (13) Jun 02 (14) Jun 01 (8) May 31 (13) May 30 (8) May 29 (6) May 28 (8) May 27 (17) May 26 (8) May 25 (13) May 24 (12) May 23 (9) May 22 (4) May 21 (4) May 20 (11) May 19 (14) May 18 (6) May 17 (10) May 16 (4) May 15 (5) May 14 (28) May 12 (9) May 11 (17) May 10 (15) May 09 (12) May 08 (5) May 07 (4) May 06 (10) May 05 (8) May 04 (10) May 03 (5) May 02 (6) May 01 (8) Apr 30 (8) Apr 29 (12) Apr 28 (6) Apr 27 (11) Apr 26 (12) Apr 25 (6) Apr 24 (3) Apr 23 (5) Apr 22 (10) Apr 21 (19) Apr 20 (13) Apr 19 (11) Apr 18 (11) Apr 17 (5) Apr 16 (12) Apr 15 (11) Apr 14 (17) Apr 13 (6) Apr 12 (16) Apr 11 (10) Apr 10 (1) Apr 09 (18) Apr 08 (14) Apr 07 (6) Apr 06 (10) Apr 05 (21) Apr 04 (12) Apr 03 (4) Apr 02 (13) Apr 01 (8) Mar 31 (10) Mar 30 (11) Mar 29 (10) Mar 28 (8) Mar 27 (6) Mar 26 (12) Mar 25 (15) Mar 24 (10) Mar 23 (12) Mar 22 (12) Mar 21 (8) Mar 20 (4) Mar 19 (11) Mar 18 (7) Mar 17 (7) Mar 16 (9) Mar 15 (10) Mar 14 (4) Mar 13 (2) Mar 12 (14) Mar 11 (13) Mar 10 (7) Mar 09 (9) Mar 08 (17) Mar 07 (5) Mar 06 (7) Mar 05 (13) Mar 04 (10) Mar 03 (14) Mar 02 (12) Mar 01 (18) Feb 28 (8) Feb 27 (2) Feb 26 (9) Feb 25 (13) Feb 24 (17) Feb 23 (13) Feb 22 (12) Feb 21 (11) Feb 20 (11) Feb 19 (16) Feb 18 (17) Feb 17 (15) Feb 16 (15) Feb 15 (15) Feb 14 (10) Feb 13 (8) Feb 12 (10) Feb 11 (15) Feb 10 (11) Feb 09 (13) Feb 08 (10) Feb 07 (9) Feb 06 (6) Feb 05 (15) Feb 04 (15) Feb 03 (11) Feb 02 (14) Feb 01 (15) Jan 31 (11) Jan 30 (9) Jan 29 (19) Jan 28 (9) Jan 27 (9) Jan 26 (16) Jan 25 (19) Jan 24 (17) Jan 23 (8) Jan 22 (15) Jan 21 (9) Jan 20 (11) Jan 19 (7) Jan 18 (9) Jan 17 (6) Jan 16 (7) Jan 15 (12) Jan 14 (9) Jan 13 (14) Jan 12 (11) Jan 11 (13) Jan 10 (8) Jan 09 (8) Jan 08 (20) Jan 07 (11) Jan 06 (11) Jan 05 (8) Jan 04 (14) Jan 03 (6) Jan 02 (7) Jan 01 (7) Dec 31 (14) Dec 30 (15) Dec 29 (7) Dec 28 (10) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (3) Dec 25 (11) Dec 24 (9) Dec 23 (9) Dec 22 (15) Dec 21 (12) Dec 20 (11) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (16) Dec 17 (6) Dec 16 (12) Dec 15 (14) Dec 14 (11) Dec 13 (10) Dec 12 (6) Dec 11 (10) Dec 10 (17) Dec 09 (11) Dec 08 (12) Dec 07 (16) Dec 06 (11) Dec 05 (5) Dec 04 (12) Dec 03 (15) Dec 02 (15) Dec 01 (12) Nov 30 (16) Nov 29 (7) Nov 28 (11) Nov 27 (13) Nov 26 (13) Nov 25 (16) Nov 24 (15) Nov 23 (10) Nov 22 (10) Nov 21 (4) Nov 20 (8) Nov 19 (9) Nov 18 (16) Nov 17 (11) Nov 16 (11) Nov 15 (10) Nov 14 (9) Nov 13 (6) Nov 12 (10) Nov 11 (12) Nov 10 (15) Nov 09 (9) Nov 08 (10) Nov 07 (6) Nov 06 (7) Nov 05 (12) Nov 04 (14) Nov 03 (10) Nov 02 (13) Nov 01 (9) Oct 31 (9) Oct 30 (11) Oct 29 (18) Oct 28 (13) Oct 27 (23) Oct 26 (12) Oct 25 (14) Oct 24 (20) Oct 22 (18) Oct 21 (18) Oct 20 (19) Oct 19 (12) Oct 18 (11) Oct 17 (5) Oct 16 (18) Oct 15 (8) Oct 14 (11) Oct 13 (9) Oct 12 (13) Oct 11 (6) Oct 10 (7) Oct 09 (27) Oct 08 (14) Oct 07 (10) Oct 06 (9) Oct 05 (7) Oct 04 (10) Oct 03 (6) Oct 02 (9) Oct 01 (13) Sep 30 (12) Sep 29 (13) Sep 28 (8) Sep 27 (9) Sep 26 (8) Sep 25 (14) Sep 24 (4) Sep 23 (14) Sep 22 (20) Sep 21 (11) Sep 20 (6) Sep 19 (9) Sep 18 (14) Sep 17 (8) Sep 16 (17) Sep 15 (6) Sep 14 (11) Sep 13 (9) Sep 12 (4) Sep 11 (7) Sep 10 (14) Sep 09 (12) Sep 08 (17) Sep 07 (12) Sep 06 (13) Sep 05 (9) Sep 04 (20) Sep 03 (16) Sep 02 (16) Sep 01 (10) Aug 31 (13) Aug 30 (4) Aug 29 (9) Aug 28 (6) Aug 27 (8) Aug 26 (11) Aug 25 (10) Aug 24 (14) Aug 23 (12) Aug 22 (13) Aug 21 (10) Aug 20 (13) Aug 19 (15) Aug 18 (8) Aug 17 (10) Aug 16 (8) Aug 15 (3) Aug 14 (11) Aug 13 (12) Aug 12 (15) Aug 11 (10) Aug 10 (17) Aug 09 (6) Aug 08 (13) Aug 07 (11) Aug 06 (13) Aug 05 (11) Aug 04 (11) Aug 03 (10) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (6) Jul 31 (10) Jul 30 (21) Jul 29 (14) Jul 28 (13) Jul 27 (16) Jul 26 (10) Jul 25 (15) Jul 24 (17) Jul 23 (15) Jul 22 (15) Jul 21 (19) Jul 20 (17) Jul 19 (9) Jul 18 (7) Jul 17 (26) Jul 16 (18) Jul 15 (20) Jul 14 (16) Jul 13 (19) Jul 12 (11) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (13) Jul 09 (11) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (12) Jul 06 (16) Jul 05 (9) Jul 04 (5) Jul 03 (15) Jul 02 (11) Jul 01 (14) Jun 30 (13) Jun 29 (19) Jun 28 (8) Jun 27 (9) Jun 26 (16) Jun 25 (22) Jun 24 (17) Jun 23 (11) Jun 22 (15) Jun 21 (14) Jun 20 (8) Jun 19 (17) Jun 18 (10) Jun 17 (10) Jun 16 (17) Jun 15 (13) Jun 14 (14) Jun 13 (4) Jun 12 (13) Jun 11 (15) Jun 10 (25) Jun 09 (10) Jun 08 (23) Jun 07 (14) Jun 06 (20) Jun 05 (10) Jun 04 (11) Jun 03 (12) Jun 02 (21) Jun 01 (14) May 31 (10) May 30 (14) May 29 (8) May 28 (23) May 27 (20) May 26 (16) May 25 (13) May 24 (12) May 23 (10) May 22 (18) May 21 (14) May 20 (12) May 19 (18) May 18 (14) May 17 (13) May 16 (4) May 15 (7) May 14 (16) May 13 (13) May 12 (8) May 11 (18) May 10 (8) May 09 (7) May 08 (13) May 07 (11) May 06 (15) May 05 (18) May 04 (17) May 03 (7) May 02 (5) May 01 (11) Apr 30 (19) Apr 29 (21) Apr 28 (18) Apr 27 (16) Apr 26 (8) Apr 25 (11) Apr 24 (9) Apr 23 (20) Apr 22 (23) Apr 21 (5) Apr 20 (16) Apr 19 (13) Apr 18 (6) Apr 17 (6) Apr 16 (16) Apr 15 (18) Apr 14 (13) Apr 13 (14) Apr 12 (9) Apr 11 (3) Apr 10 (16) Apr 09 (14) Apr 08 (12) Apr 07 (18) Apr 06 (7) Apr 05 (11) Apr 04 (9) Apr 03 (19) Apr 02 (17) Apr 01 (16) Mar 31 (16) Mar 30 (22) Mar 29 (16) Mar 28 (16) Mar 27 (19) Mar 26 (31) Mar 25 (25) Mar 24 (26) Mar 23 (27) Mar 22 (22) Mar 21 (22) Mar 20 (13) Mar 19 (21) Mar 18 (20) Mar 17 (24) Mar 16 (18) Mar 15 (9) Mar 14 (9) Mar 13 (29) Mar 12 (15) Mar 11 (11) Mar 10 (11) Mar 09 (20) Mar 08 (12) Mar 07 (6) Mar 06 (21) Mar 05 (22) Mar 04 (19) Mar 03 (9) Mar 02 (20) Mar 01 (11) Feb 28 (11) Feb 27 (27) Feb 26 (15) Feb 25 (18) Feb 24 (17) Feb 23 (19) Feb 22 (24) Feb 21 (10) Feb 20 (14) Feb 19 (25) Feb 18 (16) Feb 17 (19) Feb 16 (23) Feb 15 (8) Feb 14 (11) Feb 13 (25) Feb 12 (16) Feb 11 (12) Feb 10 (18) Feb 09 (12) Feb 08 (14) Feb 07 (8) Feb 06 (27) Feb 05 (28) Feb 04 (24) Feb 03 (17) Feb 02 (20) Feb 01 (23) Jan 31 (16) Jan 30 (20) Jan 29 (26) Jan 28 (17) Jan 27 (21) Jan 26 (24) Jan 25 (16) Jan 24 (14) Jan 23 (16) Jan 22 (17) Jan 21 (19) Jan 20 (21) Jan 19 (17) Jan 18 (13) Jan 17 (14) Jan 16 (10) Jan 15 (21) Jan 14 (16) Jan 13 (19) Jan 12 (30) Jan 11 (14) Jan 10 (11) Jan 09 (8) Jan 08 (23) Jan 07 (13) Jan 06 (21) Jan 05 (15) Jan 04 (18) Jan 03 (9) Jan 02 (12) Jan 01 (15) Dec 31 (18) Dec 30 (7) Dec 29 (13) Dec 28 (11) Dec 27 (8) Dec 26 (6) Dec 25 (8) Dec 24 (28) Dec 23 (12) Dec 22 (12) Dec 21 (17) Dec 20 (19) Dec 19 (19) Dec 18 (22) Dec 17 (24) Dec 16 (17) Dec 15 (29) Dec 14 (22) Dec 13 (12) Dec 12 (22) Dec 11 (24) Dec 10 (25) Dec 09 (18) Dec 08 (15) Dec 07 (21) Dec 06 (24) Dec 05 (30) Dec 04 (28) Dec 03 (26) Dec 02 (22) Dec 01 (33) Nov 30 (23) Nov 29 (9) Nov 28 (18) Nov 27 (25) Nov 26 (17) Nov 25 (23) Nov 24 (27) Nov 23 (12) Nov 22 (10) Nov 21 (15) Nov 20 (23) Nov 19 (23) Nov 18 (24) Nov 17 (21) Nov 16 (20) Nov 15 (13) Nov 14 (15) Nov 13 (27) Nov 12 (23) Nov 11 (19) Nov 10 (21) Nov 09 (13) Nov 08 (16) Nov 07 (16) Nov 06 (32) Nov 05 (24) Nov 04 (20) Nov 03 (29) Nov 02 (12) Nov 01 (15) Oct 31 (20) Oct 30 (22) Oct 29 (27) Oct 28 (20) Oct 27 (23) Oct 26 (21) Oct 25 (15) Oct 24 (23) Oct 23 (26) Oct 22 (27) Oct 21 (28) Oct 20 (24) Oct 19 (13) Oct 18 (9) Oct 17 (30) Oct 16 (8) Oct 15 (20) Oct 14 (14) Oct 13 (17) Oct 12 (16) Oct 11 (8) Oct 10 (19) Oct 09 (22) Oct 08 (16) Oct 07 (18) Oct 06 (23) Oct 05 (7) Oct 04 (15) Oct 03 (21) Oct 02 (17) Oct 01 (22) Sep 30 (25) Sep 29 (20) Sep 28 (17) Sep 27 (13) Sep 26 (20) Sep 25 (15) Sep 24 (24) Sep 23 (23) Sep 22 (18) Sep 21 (20) Sep 20 (11) Sep 19 (24) Sep 18 (25) Sep 17 (25) Sep 16 (19) Sep 15 (21) Sep 14 (15) Sep 13 (10) Sep 12 (23) Sep 11 (23) Sep 10 (25) Sep 09 (25) Sep 08 (17) Sep 07 (3) Sep 06 (17) Sep 05 (14) Sep 04 (24) Sep 03 (16) Sep 02 (11) Sep 01 (19) Aug 31 (20) Aug 30 (11) Aug 29 (24) Aug 28 (24) Aug 27 (16) Aug 26 (26) Aug 25 (21) Aug 24 (15) Aug 23 (19) Aug 22 (15) Aug 21 (25) Aug 20 (27) Aug 19 (19) Aug 18 (24) Aug 17 (14) Aug 16 (10) Aug 15 (15) Aug 14 (16) Aug 13 (21) Aug 12 (30) Aug 11 (19) Aug 10 (8) Aug 09 (12) Aug 08 (17) Aug 07 (21) Aug 06 (26) Aug 05 (23) Aug 04 (21) Aug 03 (12) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (19) Jul 31 (21) Jul 30 (25) Jul 29 (29) Jul 28 (23) Jul 27 (17) Jul 26 (11) Jul 25 (21) Jul 24 (14) Jul 23 (15) Jul 22 (19) Jul 21 (15) Jul 20 (9) Jul 19 (10) Jul 18 (15) Jul 17 (22) Jul 16 (18) Jul 15 (21) Jul 14 (20) Jul 13 (7) Jul 12 (9) Jul 11 (29) Jul 10 (19) Jul 09 (17) Jul 08 (26) Jul 07 (21) Jul 06 (18) Jul 05 (14) Jul 04 (20) Jul 03 (17) Jul 02 (24) Jul 01 (23) Jun 30 (23) Jun 29 (18) Jun 28 (16) Jun 27 (16) Jun 26 (17) Jun 25 (23) Jun 24 (32) Jun 23 (29) Jun 22 (8) Jun 21 (17) Jun 20 (25) Jun 19 (28) Jun 18 (19) Jun 17 (25) Jun 16 (23) Jun 15 (9) Jun 14 (11) Jun 13 (14) Jun 12 (22) Jun 11 (19) Jun 10 (17) Jun 09 (15) Jun 08 (16) Jun 07 (7) Jun 06 (29) Jun 05 (27) Jun 04 (24) Jun 03 (22) Jun 02 (22) Jun 01 (13) May 31 (9) May 30 (26) May 29 (19) May 28 (15) May 27 (15) May 26 (23) May 25 (13) May 24 (12) May 23 (24) May 22 (13) May 21 (21) May 20 (18) May 19 (16) May 18 (7) May 17 (12) May 16 (25) May 15 (24) May 14 (23) May 13 (19) May 12 (17) May 11 (8) May 10 (6) May 09 (14) May 08 (21) May 07 (26) May 06 (14) May 05 (14) May 04 (3) May 03 (3) May 02 (24) May 01 (13) Apr 30 (15) Apr 29 (24) Apr 28 (24) Apr 27 (11) Apr 26 (8) Apr 25 (13) Apr 24 (27) Apr 23 (15) Apr 22 (21) Apr 21 (19) Apr 20 (17) Apr 19 (8) Apr 18 (20) Apr 17 (27) Apr 16 (27) Apr 15 (21) Apr 14 (8) Apr 13 (8) Apr 12 (7) Apr 11 (7) Apr 10 (22) Apr 09 (15) Apr 08 (15) Apr 07 (17) Apr 06 (14) Apr 05 (5) Apr 04 (12) Apr 03 (19) Apr 02 (17) Apr 01 (19) Mar 31 (25) Mar 30 (13) Mar 29 (9) Mar 28 (16) Mar 27 (23) Mar 26 (22) Mar 25 (17) Mar 24 (25) Mar 23 (16) Mar 22 (13) Mar 21 (24) Mar 20 (27) Mar 19 (20) Mar 18 (24) Mar 17 (17) Mar 16 (11) Mar 15 (6) Mar 14 (20) Mar 13 (28) Mar 12 (30) Mar 11 (20) Mar 10 (21) Mar 09 (12) Mar 08 (8) Mar 07 (17) Mar 06 (20) Mar 05 (19) Mar 04 (15) Mar 03 (17) Mar 02 (8) Mar 01 (12) Feb 28 (16) Feb 27 (17) Feb 26 (8) Feb 25 (23) Feb 24 (15) Feb 23 (8) Feb 22 (10) Feb 21 (24) Feb 20 (14) Feb 19 (24) Feb 18 (19) Feb 17 (27) Feb 16 (13) Feb 15 (11) Feb 14 (15) Feb 13 (13) Feb 12 (13) Feb 11 (21) Feb 10 (16) Feb 09 (15) Feb 08 (10) Feb 07 (17) Feb 06 (21) Feb 05 (17) Feb 04 (14) Feb 03 (23) Feb 02 (5) Feb 01 (8) Jan 31 (17) Jan 30 (22) Jan 29 (23) Jan 28 (10) Jan 27 (24) Jan 26 (12) Jan 25 (9) Jan 24 (12) Jan 23 (19) Jan 22 (19) Jan 21 (14) Jan 20 (21) Jan 19 (12) Jan 18 (8) Jan 17 (20) Jan 16 (14) Jan 15 (23) Jan 14 (8) Jan 13 (20) Jan 12 (9) Jan 11 (7) Jan 10 (18) Jan 09 (11) Jan 08 (18) Jan 07 (13) Jan 06 (12) Jan 05 (12) Jan 04 (11) Jan 03 (10) Jan 02 (9) Jan 01 (9) Dec 31 (12) Dec 30 (11) Dec 29 (6) Dec 28 (9) Dec 27 (13) Dec 26 (15) Dec 25 (8) Dec 24 (6) Dec 23 (8) Dec 22 (5) Dec 21 (6) Dec 20 (14) Dec 19 (17) Dec 18 (14) Dec 17 (14) Dec 16 (13) Dec 15 (9) Dec 14 (9) Dec 13 (11) Dec 12 (16) Dec 11 (18) Dec 10 (4) Dec 09 (24) Dec 08 (11) Dec 07 (19) Dec 06 (6) Dec 05 (26) Dec 04 (15) Dec 03 (20) Dec 02 (17) Dec 01 (11) Nov 30 (10) Nov 29 (18) Nov 28 (21) Nov 27 (10) Nov 26 (22) Nov 25 (16) Nov 24 (12) Nov 23 (8) Nov 22 (18) Nov 21 (9) Nov 20 (17) Nov 19 (16) Nov 18 (16) Nov 17 (5) Nov 16 (9) Nov 15 (21) Nov 14 (17) Nov 13 (20) Nov 12 (16) Nov 11 (13) Nov 10 (9) Nov 09 (10) Nov 08 (16) Nov 07 (15) Nov 06 (18) Nov 05 (19) Nov 04 (16) Nov 03 (11) Nov 02 (5) Nov 01 (17) Oct 31 (17) Oct 30 (21) Oct 29 (9) Oct 28 (16) Oct 27 (6) Oct 26 (6) Oct 25 (16) Oct 24 (18) Oct 23 (14) Oct 22 (17) Oct 21 (10) Oct 20 (6) Oct 19 (8) Oct 18 (11) Oct 17 (12) Oct 16 (14) Oct 15 (19) Oct 14 (15) Oct 13 (11) Oct 12 (9) Oct 11 (10) Oct 10 (23) Oct 09 (13) Oct 08 (15) Oct 07 (20) Oct 06 (13) Oct 05 (4) Oct 04 (16) Oct 03 (17) Oct 02 (17) Oct 01 (20) Sep 30 (17) Sep 29 (9) Sep 28 (8) Sep 27 (14) Sep 26 (20) Sep 25 (19) Sep 24 (13) Sep 23 (11) Sep 22 (9) Sep 21 (5) Sep 20 (8) Sep 19 (21) Sep 18 (12) Sep 17 (20) Sep 16 (16) Sep 15 (10) Sep 14 (6) Sep 13 (18) Sep 12 (14) Sep 11 (24) Sep 10 (17) Sep 09 (16) Sep 08 (16) Sep 07 (10) Sep 06 (20) Sep 05 (13) Sep 04 (23) Sep 03 (14) Sep 02 (12) Sep 01 (11) Aug 31 (11) Aug 30 (13) Aug 29 (18) Aug 28 (14) Aug 27 (21) Aug 26 (10) Aug 25 (8) Aug 24 (10) Aug 23 (17) Aug 22 (15) Aug 21 (14) Aug 20 (20) Aug 19 (20) Aug 18 (7) Aug 17 (9) Aug 16 (11) Aug 15 (12) Aug 14 (14) Aug 13 (19) Aug 12 (14) Aug 11 (6) Aug 10 (12) Aug 09 (7) Aug 08 (18) Aug 07 (16) Aug 06 (16) Aug 05 (20) Aug 04 (12) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (12) Aug 01 (14) Jul 31 (16) Jul 30 (16) Jul 29 (11) Jul 28 (8) Jul 27 (9) Jul 26 (17) Jul 25 (20) Jul 24 (17) Jul 23 (11) Jul 22 (18) Jul 21 (7) Jul 20 (10) Jul 19 (14) Jul 18 (11) Jul 17 (15) Jul 16 (12) Jul 15 (10) Jul 14 (8) Jul 13 (8) Jul 12 (17) Jul 11 (18) Jul 10 (16) Jul 09 (13) Jul 08 (10) Jul 07 (12) Jul 06 (8) Jul 05 (16) Jul 04 (14) Jul 03 (17) Jul 02 (13) Jul 01 (16) Jun 30 (19) Jun 29 (7) Jun 28 (19) Jun 27 (21) Jun 26 (27) Jun 25 (23) Jun 24 (23) Jun 23 (12) Jun 22 (9) Jun 21 (18) Jun 20 (15) Jun 19 (24) Jun 18 (21) Jun 17 (13) Jun 16 (9) Jun 15 (9) Jun 14 (18) Jun 13 (24) Jun 12 (18) Jun 11 (23) Jun 10 (25) Jun 09 (24) Jun 08 (27) Jun 07 (5) Jun 06 (25) Jun 05 (30) Jun 04 (23) Jun 03 (22) Jun 02 (16) Jun 01 (17) May 31 (18) May 30 (19) May 29 (17) May 28 (23) May 27 (15) May 26 (10) May 25 (19) May 24 (16) May 23 (16) May 22 (27) May 21 (20) May 20 (26) May 19 (6) May 18 (8) May 17 (20) May 16 (8) May 15 (18) May 14 (5) May 13 (21) May 12 (9) May 11 (8) May 10 (12) May 09 (18) May 08 (11) May 07 (27) May 06 (12) May 05 (16) May 04 (19) May 03 (14) May 02 (18) May 01 (18) Apr 30 (25) Apr 29 (27) Apr 28 (11) Apr 27 (10) Apr 26 (18) Apr 25 (10) Apr 24 (29) Apr 23 (29) Apr 22 (14) Apr 21 (15) Apr 20 (20) Apr 19 (22) Apr 18 (16) Apr 17 (32) Apr 16 (12) Apr 15 (21) Apr 14 (21) Apr 13 (15) Apr 12 (13) Apr 11 (14) Apr 10 (16) Apr 09 (20) Apr 08 (36) Apr 07 (22) Apr 06 (11) Apr 05 (28) Apr 04 (20) Apr 03 (29) Apr 02 (32) Apr 01 (18) Mar 31 (12) Mar 30 (9) Mar 29 (15) Mar 28 (22) Mar 27 (24) Mar 26 (17) Mar 25 (17) Mar 24 (13) Mar 23 (5) Mar 22 (12) Mar 21 (15) Mar 20 (18) Mar 19 (19) Mar 18 (16) Mar 17 (10) Mar 16 (6) Mar 15 (18) Mar 14 (24) Mar 13 (18) Mar 12 (18) Mar 11 (17) Mar 10 (13) Mar 09 (12) Mar 08 (18) Mar 07 (25) Mar 06 (16) Mar 05 (16) Mar 04 (22) Mar 03 (17) Mar 02 (6) Mar 01 (23) Feb 29 (19) Feb 28 (25) Feb 27 (26) Feb 26 (23) Feb 25 (12) Feb 24 (13) Feb 23 (15) Feb 22 (26) Feb 21 (31) Feb 20 (12) Feb 19 (21) Feb 18 (15) Feb 17 (10) Feb 16 (15) Feb 15 (19) Feb 14 (15) Feb 13 (25) Feb 12 (20) Feb 11 (9) Feb 10 (7) Feb 09 (28) Feb 08 (20) Feb 07 (22) Feb 06 (20) Feb 05 (19) Feb 04 (14) Feb 03 (16) Feb 02 (28) Feb 01 (37) Jan 31 (27) Jan 30 (31) Jan 29 (18) Jan 28 (14) Jan 27 (10) Jan 26 (18) Jan 25 (26) Jan 24 (34) Jan 23 (21) Jan 22 (21) Jan 21 (18) Jan 20 (18) Jan 19 (18) Jan 18 (26) Jan 17 (24) Jan 16 (23) Jan 15 (30) Jan 14 (20) Jan 13 (18) Jan 12 (24) Jan 11 (11) Jan 10 (23) Jan 09 (22) Jan 08 (17) Jan 07 (17) Jan 06 (9) Jan 05 (18) Jan 04 (15) Jan 03 (19) Jan 02 (14) Jan 01 (6) Dec 31 (12) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (15) Dec 28 (11) Dec 27 (7) Dec 26 (10) Dec 25 (16) Dec 24 (13) Dec 23 (16) Dec 22 (11) Dec 21 (26) Dec 20 (28) Dec 19 (14) Dec 18 (25) Dec 17 (23) Dec 16 (19) Dec 15 (22) Dec 14 (38) Dec 13 (26) Dec 12 (25) Dec 11 (27) Dec 10 (31) Dec 09 (15) Dec 08 (30) Dec 07 (31) Dec 06 (27) Dec 05 (38) Dec 04 (25) Dec 03 (27) Dec 02 (15) Dec 01 (36) Nov 30 (23) Nov 29 (17) Nov 28 (23) Nov 27 (13) Nov 26 (16) Nov 25 (14) Nov 24 (18) Nov 23 (21) Nov 22 (21) Nov 21 (24) Nov 20 (20) Nov 19 (23) Nov 18 (17) Nov 17 (17) Nov 16 (34) Nov 15 (25) Nov 14 (17) Nov 13 (21) Nov 12 (18) Nov 11 (9) Nov 10 (15) Nov 09 (9) Nov 08 (9) Nov 07 (12) Nov 06 (8) Nov 05 (4) Oct 29 (1) Oct 01 (1) Jul 29 (1) May 11 (1) Jul 11 (1)
Sep 18, 2017 | By Tess

The Singapore Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star), Rolls-Royce, and Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL) have signed a S$60 million ($44.6 million) agreement to establish a joint manufacturing laboratory dedicated to the development of new technologies for the aerospace industry.

Among the technologies to be explored at the Singapore-based facility are additive manufacturing, advanced robotics, and other automated solutions.

The lab, called the Smart Manufacturing Joint Lab, is part of a collaborative project that will last for at least five years between A*Star, British car manufacturer and engineering company Rolls-Royce, and aerospace company SAESL. The S$60 million initiative marks the first collaboration between the three parties.

Ultimately, the aim of the Smart Manufacturing Joint Lab will be to explore and develop next-generation solutions for aerospace manufacturing, as well as to enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) processes. The facility will be focused on accelerating advanced 3D printing technologies, as well as other automation and digital-based processes.

Singapore is quickly becoming a hub for advanced manufacturing technologies and initiatives, largely thanks to innovative steps being taken by the city-states government as well as its universities and businesses.

In 2015, for instance, Singapore launched the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) in an effort to support businesses in the adoption of 3D printing. As we reported earlier this year, the project has already proved successful, with over 400 companies joining the additive manufacturing cluster.

Even more recently, Singapore announced it would be putting S$18 million (about $13 million) into a new medical 3D printing facility called the National University of Singapore Centre for Additive Manufacturing (AM.NUS).

Ian Davis, chairman at Rolls-Royce, commented on his companys new project, saying: "Singapore, as demonstrated by its Future of Manufacturing initiative, is continually transforming, able, and inventive. That is why Singapore is a compelling partner to work with."

A*Star chairman Lim Chuan Poh echoed the excitement about the project. Our Future of Manufacturing strategy involves bringing together ideas, resources, people and companies along the innovation value-chain from MNCs to SMEs on a synergistic platform to co-create and co-develop to benefit Singapore's future economy, he said.

In Singapore, the manufacturing sector reportedly accounted for 20 per cent of the nations GDP in 2016, and was responsible for employing 14 per cent of Singapores whole workforce. Considering these numbers, it is not surprising that the country is so invested in advancing its manufacturing industry.

Posted in 3D Printer Company

Maybe you also like:












Sep 18, 2017 | By Benedict

Ukrainian 3D printing startup Sprybuild has developed and filed a patent for a new continuous DLP 3D printing technology called CPWC (Continuous Production with Wavefront Converting). The company says the technology could be used to build the fastest DLP 3D printers in the world.

Its a known fact that if you're going to make your mark as an innovator in the additive manufacturing world, youre probably going to need an acronym for your new 3D printing technology. Companies like Carbon, Rize, and Impossible Objects have all dutifully followed the advice (CLIP, APD, and CBAM, respectively), and now Ukrainian newcomer Sprybuild has joined the list of companies vying for your attention with initials.

Sprybuilds technology, billed as a a revolutionary approach to overcoming the main technical contradiction of constructing products from a liquid photopolymer, is a form of DLP 3D printing called Continuous Production with Wavefront Converting, or CPWC. It works by redistributing radiation energy in the microscopic layer of the construction area, and can print objects at a speed of up to 10 mm per minute.

The technology has other advantages too. For example, Sprybuild says its CPWC tech can be used to 3D print any photopolymerizable liquids, even complex mixtures of useful materials. Photocurable liquids may contain additional ingredients, says the companys CEO Evgeniy Ivanov. For example in the form of nano- and microparticles, fillers, dyes, microfibers, ferromagnetics, paramagnetics, metals, luminophoresthese can be various sorts of organic fillers, i.e. medications and microcapsules.

CPWC, which Sprybuild says is unlike anything else on the 3D printing market, is based on the transformation of the wavefront of actinic radiation, which forms a projection of the printed object directly in the build area. The technology purportedly provides an improved relaxation of residual stresses in the products formed, as well as offering a larger build volume than typical resin printing processes.

The company suggests that CPWC 3D printing tech could be used to produce a diverse range of objects, including electronic device cases, molds, gear wheels, mounting hardware, tubes, decorative pieces, and more. Additionally, the tech could purportedly find itself at home in the medical world, where it could be used to make equipment such as stents, microneedle arrays, optical fibers, and other devices.

Long-term, Sprybuild even thinks it could tackle the bioprinting of organ matrices, since the individual pixels of the printing system can be much smaller than those of regular DLP and LCD projectors.

A prototype of the first Sprybuild 3D printer is currently being demonstrated to the public at the 2017 edition of TechCrunch's Disrupt SF conference in San Francisco, September 18-20. The winning company of the Startup Battlefield event, in which Sprybuild is competing, will receive a $50,000 grand prize.

Posted in 3D Printer

Maybe you also like:









shaun lamont wrote at 9/19/2017 1:24:50 AM:every day those $100's of million spent of CLIP look worse and worse




If you're into dangerous sweets like raw cookie dough, fear not, Doughp is here to satisfy your cravings.

Hard-core sugar addicts will already be familiar with Doughp (pronounced "dope"), a purveyor of cookie dough that's been serving up eggless scoops of batter in fun flavors at Spark Social and various other catering events. Now, Doughp is making the jump from pop-up to brick-and-mortar, taking over one of the stall shops at the Myriad, a newish food hall in the Castro.

Courtesy of Kelsey Witherow

After a decade working in tech, first-time restaurateur Kelsey Witherow knew it was time to tap into her true passion: an insatiable love for sweets. But passion is only part of the puzzle.

"You get a lot of self doubt following your dreams, but you just have to be brave and tell yourself to kick ass, that people like what you're making, and you have the skills it takes to bring something awesome into the world," says Witherow. "I'm so happy I took the leap and ditched the safe, corporate career in search of something more. I think the reward is so much bigger than the risk."

To make this "legit cookie dough," Witherow ditches the eggs and heat-treats the flour so it can be eaten raw (little known fact, you can get E. coli from raw flour). By using a vegan substitute for the eggs, the dough is both edible and bakeable.

Witherow currently produces 16 different types of cookie dough for consumption, featuring four to six of the flavors in-store each week. Customers can expect classics like OG (chocolate chip cookie dough) alongside sassier new recipes including This S'More Is Hella Lit (marshmallow fluff, graham crackers, and chocolate chips), Red Rum (red velvet cake, blonde cookie dough) and Feeling Salty? (pretzels, caramel, chocolate chips, and sea salt). Served in a colorful cone or cup, what would a scoop be without toppings? Options include Fruity Pebbles, coconut shavings, Nutella sauce, rainbow sprinkles, and caramel.

Delicious from the first bite, demand for Doughp is growing fast: Witherow is now mixing close to 300 pounds of dough per week for wholesale orders to local ice cream shops as well as for her own space. As she's expanded her company, she also recognizes the importance of giving back: Witherow works with the non-profit Bread Project, which employs low-income individuals and teaches them skills for self-sufficiency.

The Myriad offers the perfect home for Doughpit's a one-stop shop, after all: Start with an appetizer of freshly baked bread from a vending machine (Le Bread Xpress), then dig into your custom poke bowl (Poke Delish), then sink your teeth into a delicious cone of cookie dough, and end with a nightcap at the bar (Mrs. Jones). Sounds like a well-curated Castro culinary coup. // Doughp at the Myriad, 2175 Market St. (Upper Market), doughpsf.com
All the news that's fit to eat.

Belcampo's Back



The Polk Street butcher shop dedicated to all things meat has reopened to unveil an expanded selection of grab-and-go itemsthink soups, stocks, ready-to-cook meats, and fresh salads. The adjacent restaurant's menu, meanwhile, has been streamlined and burgerfied: Order 100-day dry-aged burger topped with raclette cheese, caramelized onions, and whole grain mustard aioli. // 1998 Polk St (Russian Hill), belcampo.com





New Chef, New Menu, Who Dis?

Serpentine, the restaurant that basically pioneered the Dogpatch, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a bang thanks to a recent renovation and an all new chef/owner. over the past 15 years, Tommy Halvorson has sharpened his knives in Bay Area kitchens including Gary Danko, Chez Panisse, and Bix; at Serpentine, he will add southern subtleties with a continued focus on seasonality and high quality ingredients. You might find a starter of Jimmy Nardello and padron peppers stuffed with pimiento cheese, or a spicy-vinegary take on Nashville-style hot chicken for your main. Regulars will be happy to know that the burger remains. // 2495 3rd St (Dogpatch), serpentinesf.com





Harvest Party!

On Sunday September 24th, Sonoma's Ram's Gate Winery will host its annual harvest celebration with a pig roast, an oyster shucking class and, of course, plenty of wine to wash it all down, including the estate-grown pinot noir, chardonnay, and pinot blanc. // 28700 Arnold Dr (Sonoma). Get tickets here.

All Stars



Join Anthony Myint (Mission Chinese Food, The Perennial) and J. Kenji Lopez-Alt (The Food Lab, Serious Eats) as they team up to serve dinner at Healdsburg's beloved Shed. The four-course collaborative meal will center around environmentally progressive ingredients and will explore, through food and dialogue, concepts such as "Fried chicken as an environmental act," "Meat mixology: a taste test," and "Feedlot to grass fed 2.0 and everything in between." All attendees will receive a signed copy of Lopez-Alt's book, The Food Lab, and a portion of the night's proceeds will go to Zero Foodprint. // 6-9pm, September 27th, Shed, 25 North St (Healdsburg); tickets ($160) are available at healdsburgshed.com.

Hippie Food



Here's a new book for your kitchen. San Francisco Chronicle food writer Jonathan Kauffman'sHippie Food: How Back-to-the-Landers, Longhairs, and Revolutionaries Changed the Way We Eat provides a narrative history of such crunchy-foodie things as the organic movement, the rise of co-ops, and the way once unconventional foods (think sprouts, tofu, and brown rice) have become part of modern American cuisine. Here Kauffman talk up his tome at SF's Main Public Library. // 6:30-8pm, Thursday, Sept. 28th, 100 Larkin St (Tenderloin); for event information go to sfpl.org; jonathankauffman.com.
Business roundup: New Mexican restaurant plans to open in Aberdeen

A new Mexican restaurant is hoping to be open this fall. Owners hope the new space can be ready in at most two months.


Director Appointment/Resignation

Adelaide, Sep 18, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Investigator Resources Limited ( ASX:IVR ) announces the retirement of its Non-Executive Director, David G. Jones effective as of 18 September 2017.



Mr Jones was appointed as a Director during December 2006 and has served on the Board for more than 10 years. He has provided considerable support over the past 10 years through the Company's development into an active, multi-commodity focused exploration and development company. The Board, management and staff of Investigator Resources wish David well in his retirement and also express their gratitude for his valuable contributions and service.



The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin J Wilson as non-executive director of the board effective as of 15 September 2017.



Mr Wilson has extensive knowledge and experience in global minerals industry, relevant financial markets and stakeholders. Mr Wilson has senior level board experience including management, governance, business development and marketing. Mr Wilson has served on the board of various ASX listed companies and currently serves as Chairman of Navarre Minerals limited ( ASX:NML ). Mr Wilson will receive a total cash remuneration of $60,000 pa.





About Investigator Resources Ltd





Investigator Resources Limited (ASX:IVR) is a metals explorer with a focus on the opportunities for greenfields silver-lead, copper-gold and other metal discoveries in South Australia.

The Company's priority is progressing the development pathway for the Paris silver project with the preparation of a pre-feasibility study. The Paris Mineral Resource Estimate is 9.3Mt @ 139g/t silver and 0.6% lead, comprising 42Moz of contained silver and 55kt of contained lead, at a 50g/t silver cut-off. The resource has been categorised with an Indicated Resource estimate of 4.3Mt @ 163g/t silver and 0.6% lead for 23Moz contained silver and 26kt contained lead, and an Inferred Resource: 5.0Mt @ 119g/t silver and 0.6% lead for 19Moz contained silver and 29kt contained lead.

The Company has applied an innovative strategy that has developed multiple ideas and targets giving Investigator first-mover status. These include: the Paris silver discovery; recognition of other epithermal fields and the associated potential for porphyry copper-gold of Olympic Dam age; extending the ideas developed at Paris-Nankivel and using breakthrough government Magneto-Telluric surveying to rejuvenate targeting with the Maslins IOCG target as the next priority drill target.
In what can be called a new twist to the political tale of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker, P. Dhanapal, has disqualified the 18 MLAs, who had been backing the sidelined party leader, T.T.V. Dinakaran.

The MLAs have been disqualified with effect from today, under the 1986 Tamil Nadu Assembly Members Party Defection Law.

The disqualified MLAs include Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P. Vetrivel and K. Mariappan.

The Dinakaran faction had earlier met the officials from the Election Commission and requested them to declare the recently conducted general council meeting of the party null and void.

Vijila Sathyananth, of the Dinakaran faction, told the media here that the faction would soon hold a general council meet of the party after the consent of their general secretary  V.K. Sasikala.

The faction also moved the Madras High Court on plea over a floor test in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

The AIADMK, in its general council meeting, had passed a resolution, according to which jailed party general secretary V.K. Sasikala stood expelled from the party and the post of the temporary general secretary forfeited.

The resolution further said that the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, E. Palanisamy and his deputy, O. Panneerselvam, should retrieve the party and its symbol.

Other terms of the resolution state that all announcements by T.T.V. Dinakaran stand cancelled.

Tamil Nadus leader of opposition M.K. Stalin also said that he had moved the Madras High Court because Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao did not take due cognisance of his request of conducting a floor test in state assembly.

Stalin said he had asserted earlier that he will approach the court if Rao fails to address his concerns.

The DMK leader demanded an immediate floor test from the Governor.
The recently concluded visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is indicative of the high potential of Indo-Japan relations. The fact that India and Japan have been holding annual summits for the past few years outlines the importance that both these countries give to each other. Apart from Japan, India holds such annual summits with Russia.

India and Japan have enjoyed close and cordial relations for a long time. There has been a continuous effort from both the governments to strengthen the relations further. While taking the relations forward it is important to have clear goals and the direction in mind. It is also important to define the exact role that both the countries would play.

One of the most important factors pushing India and Japan towards each other is China. India and Japan have to counter China in three areas. One is border dispute (land border dispute for India and maritime boundary dispute for Japan), second is Chinas expansion plan through Belt Road Initiative (BRI) and the third is troublesome neighbours  Pakistan for India and North Korea for Japan. In either case, China is seen as the main driver behind India-Japan co-operation. It is important to recall that Japan is the only country to back India on the stand-off with China at Doklam.

However, certain other factors must not be ignored. In addition to being one of the fastest growing economies, India is also a large market for any country to sell its products. Japan, like many other countries, has made investments worth billions of dollars in India in different sectors and also looks at India as a market. Japan is a hard competitor with other countries in order to get a major stake in Indias economy. The bullet train is one such example where Japan competed with China and was successful in striking a deal with India. Japans economic engagement with and in India makes the latter a valuable partner for the former on international stage.

With respect to countering China, India and Japan have proposed Asia-Africa Growth Corridor as an alternative to Chinas BRI. If and when materialised, this corridor would provide assistance to the countries of Asia and Africa in development. Involvement of India and Japan in development projects of various countries has been looked at as promoting equality in terms of sharing the benefits of the projects. Asia-Africa Growth Corridor could also be expected to create multi-polar order as against the uni-polar order that would be expected if China is the only player in the region. Besides this project India will also have an added advantage of increasing its influence in the Indian Ocean Region.

The above discussion covered economic and strategic partnership between India and Japan. However, it is more of a reaction to China. So the context of India-Japan relations in this case is limited and pertains to some short term solutions since at present both India and Japan are challenged by China in one way or the other. The potential of India-Japan relations is much more. Apart from Asia and Africa India and Japan should also look forward to co-operating in other regions such as Asia-Pacific and Middle East and formulate policies accordingly.

India and Japan have an opportunity to influence the regional order as well as extended neighbourhoods. Uncertainty over the US policies in the entire Asian continent could create a power vacuum which India and Japan should look forward to fill. Thus, expanding the strategic outreach by both India and Japan would eventually lead to realising the high potential of their partnership.

(The author is an Independent Researcher based in Vadodara and can be reached at  niranjanmarjani@gmail.com)

Niranjan Marjani

(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
Pakistan is ready with a tough diplomatic policy if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabads major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, according to a media report.

Pakistans new strategy comes after US President Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants.

A day after Trumps announcement, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson suggested that US could downgrade Islamabads status as a major non-NATO ally if it does not crack down on militants.

The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government has prepared a three-option toughest diplomatic policy.

According to official sources, the policy includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non- cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

The last option may include a ban on using Pakistani land for NATO supplies to Afghanistan, according to the newspaper.

However, the policy will be implemented after the approval of the National Security Committee.

Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan are expected to sort out their differences during the meetings between their leaders on the sidelines of UN General Assembly session starting Tuesday.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is expected to meet US Vice President Mike Pence while the foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet.
The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Koreas latest nuclear and missile tests, South Koreas defence ministry said.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers flew over the peninsula to demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Koreas nuclear and missile threats, the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets few alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of routine training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies.

The previous such flights were on August 31.

The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be destroyed if it refused to end its reckless weapons drive.

The subject is set to dominate US President Donald Trumps address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Uns regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert stronger pressure on the North, with Moons office warning that further provocation would put it on a path of collapse.

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital  and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South  vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trumps National Security Adviser HR McMaster said the US would have to prepare all options if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the Norths weapons drive.
FedEx has asked for more time to start up its new Cuba freighter service after facing problems finding suppliers in the country and due to potential changes to US policy.

Last year, the express firm was the only airline granted permission to operate all-cargo services between the US and Cuba as relations between the countries began to improve.

The five-times-a-week service between Miami and Matanzas/Varadero (VRA) was initially given a start-up deadline of April 15, but earlier this year the express operator asked for an extension until October 15.

Now, FedEx has asked for a second extension  this time until June 15, 2018  as it continues to prove difficult to find cargo service suppliers.

"Despite FedExs vigorous planning efforts, substantial hurdles persist," the express firm said.

"Namely, these hurdles relate to securing the appropriate Cuban commercial partners in VRA for critical operational components such as: airport ground-related services; unfettered access to airport customs clearance facilities and warehousing/staging space as needed; and last-mile delivery capabilities."

It also had concerns about a change in approach to Cuba from current President, Donald Trump.

It added: "The regulatory amendments from the Departments of Commerce and Treasury to implement President Trumps June 16, 2017, announcement on Cuba policy changes are still forthcoming.

"As a result, much uncertainty exists with respect to whether, and the extent to which, those regulatory amendments would require FedExs U.S.-Cuba all-cargo service plans to be altered."

Despite these hurdles, the express operator added that it was committed to providing efficient and reliable US-Cuba air express/cargo services.

On February 16 last year, the US signed an arrangement with the Cuban government to re-establish scheduled air service between the two countries after more than 50 years.

Under the new arrangement, each country has the opportunity to operate up to 20 daily round trip flights between the US and Havana, and up to 10 daily round trip flights between the US and each of Cubas other nine international airports.

Read more express operator news

Share this story
ABC/Travis BellFoo Fighters are hopping into James Corden's van for a round of Carpool Karaoke. The segment will air during an episode of The Late Late Show this week.

"Surprise! @foofighters #CarpoolKaraoke coming your way this week!" the show tweets, along with a GIF of Dave Grohl and company looking ready to rock.

The Late Late Show airs weeknights at 12:37 a.m. ET on CBS.

In other Foo happenings, the band played a secret show in Stockholm last week, during which they were joined by The Hives frontman and native Swede "Howlin'" Pelle Almqvist for a cover of AC/DC's "Let There Be Rock." You can watch fan-recorded footage of the performance now on YouTube.

The new Foo Fighters album, Concrete and Gold, is out now.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
April 18, 2017

TEHRAN  Irans presidential elections are perhaps among the most unpredictable worldwide. Except for the 2001 landslide re-election of Reformist President Mohammad Khatami, predicting the winner of the past five presidential polls has truly been a challenge. The May 19 vote is shaping up to be the most unpredictable yet.

In a new development this election cycle, the Principlist movement formed the Popular Front of Islamic Revolution Forces, popularly known by its Persian acronym, JAMNA, and adopted a candidate selection mechanism akin to the primaries held by Western political parties. The coalition, which includes top conservative figures, hopes to forge agreement on a consensus candidate to run against incumbent President Hassan Rouhani.

In balloting on April 6, JAMNA selected five men as prospective presidential nominees. A unity candidate will later be selected from among the five. All other potential Principlist contenders withdrew their candidacies after the primary.

Among those who stepped aside were Ezzatollah Zarghami, former head of Irans state broadcaster. He came in eighth place in the JAMNA primary but had announced his intention to run for the presidency March 15. Also stepping aside were former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Mohsen Rezaei, who came in 10th place, and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, who had from the beginning rejected the very idea of JAMNA. Jalili announced his withdrawal through a statement shortly after the April 15 deadline for candidate registration had passed, and chose not to declare his support for any Principlist candidate.

The five JAMNA finalists include Ebrahim Raisi, who as leader of the Asran-e Quds Razavi charity is the custodian of the holy shrine of the eighth Shiite imam. The conservative cleric, who is viewed as Rouhanis main competitor, issued a statement April 9 announcing that he would be entering the fray independent of political groupings. Although this prompted skepticism about his adherence to JAMNA principles, the coalition issued a statement April 10 to the effect that Raisis comments were in full accordance with its founding statute. Raisi subsequently registered as a candidate at the Interior Ministry on April 14.

JAMNA finalist Alireza Zakani, a former lawmaker, also registered as a presidential candidate April 14. Of note, he had sought to run in the 2013 elections, but was disqualified by the Guardian Council, the body tasked with vetting candidates. The former parliamentarian tried his luck again in the February 2016 parliamentary elections, but came in 38th in the Tehran district, which had 30 seats to fill. Hamid Reza Haji Babaei, who served as education minister under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is also a JAMNA finalist and registered to run April 15.

Long-time Tehran Mayor Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who unsuccessfully ran for the presidency in 2005 and 2013, made JAMNA's list of five and registered as a candidate April 16. Former parliamentarian Mehrdad Bazrpash rounded out the five JAMNA finalists. Only 36 years old, Bazrpash had quickly climbed the ranks under Ahmadinejad, and although criticized for being unqualified, was appointed CEO of two of Irans largest automakers, Pars Khodro and SAIPA, in March 2007 and January 2008, respectively.

Bazrpash's presence on the list of JAMNA finalists surprised many political observers, especially given his lack of experience. Even more surprising were the events surrounding his registration to run. Arriving at the Interior Ministry minutes after the deadline had passed, Bazrpash was met by closed doors. After insisting and persisting, he managed to get inside. Once there, Bazrpash announced that he would not be running for the presidency.

Ahmadinejad, a Principlist, and his former deputy Hamid Baghaei, both of whom registered for the presidential race as independents on April 12, further added to the drama. The former president and JAMNA had earlier announced their independence of one another, but they are nonetheless vying for the same voters.

It is not clear which conservative candidates will ultimately be approved by the Guardian Council, with the Interior Ministry not due to announce the final list until April 26 or 27. What is clear, however, is that there is a good chance that Ahmadinejad and Baghaei will be barred from running given the lawsuits filed against them alleging administrative violations while in office.

On April 16, judiciary spokesman Gholam Hossein Mohseni-Ejei said, The file against Ahmadinejad is still pending, and no final verdict has been issued for him yet. The case against Hamid Baghaei has not been closed either, and his innocence or guilt has not been definitively established. Although the Guardian Council acts independently of the judiciary, Mohseni-Ejeis comments  which included the caveat that an ongoing legal case does not preclude ones candidacy  could influence the councils decision.

Even without the Guardian Council's finalized list of approved candidates, the electoral scene already looks set to be intriguing. The Reformists have tried to paint Raisi as their major opponent and the consensus candidate of the Principlists, although the conservatives have not yet anointed him. Of interest, conservative media  in particular the key dailies Kayhan, Vatan Emrooz and Javan  gave little coverage to the news of Raisi having registered to run.

On April 9, JAMNA member Seyed Mohammad Hosseini, who served as culture and Islamic guidance minister under Ahmadinejad, told the conservative Tasnim news agency, All [of JAMNAs final five] candidates have announced their willingness to drop out in favor of JAMNAs consensus candidate. One of the paragraphs of [the founding statute of] this coalition is that when a final [consensus] candidate is chosen, the rest must withdraw.

Whether this will actually happen remains to be seen, especially considering that Principlists have in the past refused to do so. For instance, in the 2013 presidential race, the conservatives failed to agree on a consensus candidate. Only former parliament Speaker Gholam-Ali Haddad Adel stood aside, with Ghalibaf, Rezaei and Ali Akbar Velayati, foreign adviser to the supreme leader, continuing with their campaigns.

Given the serious conflicts within the Principlist movement and the lack of consensus over even Raisi, it appears unlikely that the camps leading candidates, especially Ghalibaf, will drop out in favor of a fellow Principlist, most likely Raisi.
September 15, 2017

CAIRO  Al-Azhar Fatwa Global Center has received dozens of fatwa inquiries since it launched Ask Al-Azhar, in cooperation with the Youm7 website, on Aug. 26. The aim is to answer fatwa-related questions for the first time through live electronic broadcast.

Youm7, one of the most popular news websites in Egypt, has an icon on its website for the service and promoted it on its official social media page to attract thousands of users.

Al-Azhar Fatwa Global Center boosted its electronic fatwa activity by taking several measures on the day the service was launched, such as posting a fatwa form on its official website, providing a hotline and announcing a Sept. 11 training session for those interested in working at the centers fatwa department.

Al-Azhar Fatwa Global Center was established in November 2016 based on a decision from Al-Azhars Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb to detect extremist fatwas online and to respond to them. The center serves as a platform for communication for those who want to know about fatwas from Al-Azhar online. Around 300 researchers and clerics work there.

These new measures launched in August revived the Egyptian publics connection with the center and sparked the interest of internet and social media users. There was not much marketing for the trial website that launched in November 2016, so many internet users were unaware of the center.

Youssef Amer, the general supervisor of the center, indicated in a press statement Aug. 28 that the center will play a key role in fighting extremist thought and the credo of the Islamic State (IS). He said, The most dangerous issues the center is tackling include Islam and citizenship among terrorist groups, mainly IS. The national and religious identities do not conflict, unless the national identity dictates committing acts forbidden by God.

This is in response to extremist fatwas based on the works of some jihadi authorities like late Islamist Egyptian thinker Sayyid Qutb. These fatwas and authorities ban the idea of citizenship or feeling of belonging to a state and consider it against the sense of belonging to Islam.

Amer said that the center will also tackle IS recruitment of children. He noted, The center is fighting IS exploitation of children as human ticking bombs who are trapped and bombed in the ranks of armies in Nigeria, Syria and Iraq. Sharia forbids using children in wars, and bombing them along with soldiers and innocent people is one of the most heinous crimes against humanity.

Although Amer revealed the centers resolve to tackle thorny extremism issues, most fatwas are focusing on matters not related to detecting extremist fatwas and fighting extremist thought, more than 20 days after the launch. For example, the center issued a fatwa on Sept. 9 allowing the earning of a fee for reading and memorizing the Quran, and another fatwa on Sept. 8 approving a mans right to marry another woman without the knowledge of the first wife.

With the fatwas dealing with issues that are far from terrorism, there are questions about the effectiveness of both the center and website and their anti-radicalism activities. How probable is it that extremists would resort to Al-Azhar and the electronic fatwa center for advice on religious issues?

Yusri al-Azbawy, a political researcher at Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies in Cairo, told Al-Monitor, The center and electronic website are very important, and their significance is yet to be seen. Radical fatwas have taken one of three paths to reach Egyptian minds. The first path is religious channels funded by the Muslim Brotherhood and by Salafist groups. The state resolved the issue by taking a decision to shut down religious channels July 3, 2013. The second path constitutes some mosques that were controlled by extremist currents. The state tightened its grip on them in the past years by forbidding preachers unlicensed by Al-Azhar and the Awqaf Ministry from speaking out in minarets and pushing them to unify the Friday sermon through the Ministry [of Awqaf].

He added, The third path is electronic websites. Radical groups have many fatwa websites that cannot be banned because they are numerous. For that reason, an electronic platform  was necessary to give fatwas to those seeking them so that they dont fall in the trap of extremist fatwas, especially since most youths don't visit Al-Azhar or Dar al-Ifta to get fatwas and just resort to the internet.

Abdul Moneim Fouad, a philosophy and doctrine teacher at Al-Azhar University, had a partially different opinion from Azbawys. He told Al-Monitor, The website is important, but not absolutely. It all depends on the target audience. Al-Azhar deals with five types of people: Muslims who believe in Al-Azhar as a religious authority; hesitant Muslims who have their doubts in its authority as opposed to radical authorities; total objectors to its authority including extremists and infidels; youth who do not have a set religious authority; and finally non-Muslims.

Idriss added, The center will play a huge role in luring in Muslims hesitating between Al-Azhars moderate thought and the extremist ideology of some Salafist currents and jihadi groups. It will also help form an authority for youths and children to fall back on, as they are online most of the time. The aim is also to improve the image of Islam in the eyes of non-Muslims, because terrorist groups have tarnished this image in the past years and reflected extremism, apostasy and enmity. The biggest challenge, however, is in convincing some radicals to give up this thought, and I do not think the online center can do much about this.

Journalist Hussein al-Qadi criticized the establishment of Al-Azhars center and told Al-Monitor, Al-Azhar center is just a matter of propaganda to prove that Al-Azhar is playing a role in fighting extremism and modernizing religious sermons, although fatwas are not its forte.

He continued, Al-Azhar established the online center to avoid editing its curricula and removing the inherited traces of extremist thought related to clamping down on Copts and not believing in citizenship, among others. Revisiting and developing religious thought is the job of Al-Azhar rather than fatwas that should be left to Dar al-Ifta, which has its own electronic platform to respond to fatwa inquiries and has an observer to detect extremist fatwas and respond to them. We do not need other fatwas. We need Al-Azhar to play its role in moderating Islamist thought and distancing it from the extremist historical fatwas mentioned in fiqh books and taught in Al-Azhar, instead of monopolizing all religious roles by stepping on Dar al-Iftas toes.

As an Islamic institution, Al-Azhar teaches religious studies, development of Islamic research, protection of the Islamic Dawa and thought from all violations of the Sharia, and issuance of general fatwas for Muslims across the world. Dar al-Ifta, for its part, issues fatwas for Egyptians on a case-by-case basis.

Although Al-Azhars center is playing a key role in fighting extremist electronic platforms, luring in those lost between moderation and extremism and improving the image of Islam, we cannot ignore the presence of a similar platform for Dar al-Ifta, which undermines Al-Azhars. Dar al-Iftas efforts in this regard have been internationally recognized, and the European Parliament adopted them as a point of reference for Islamic fatwas in 2015.
September 18, 2017

With 33.5 trillion cubic meters of natural gas, Iran has the largest conventional gas reserves in the world. Along with its vast oil reserves, it also has sizable, non-associated conventional gas resources that are being developed aggressively. With regard to exports, however, natural gas has never matched the significance of oil in Iran. Nonetheless, Tehran has boosted gas production tremendously in the past few years, despite sanctions and other challenges. Up until 2016, almost all of Iran's gas production was used for domestic consumption, freeing up more oil for export. In the meantime, a saturation of domestic utilization has allowed Iran to boost its exports, which are still negligible compared to the resource potential. Officials recently said that gas exports grew by 64% during the period of March 21 to Aug. 22, 2017, compared to the same period in 2016.

According to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, Iran produced 202 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas in 2016. The countrys Ministry of Petroleum envisions annual gas production of 300 bcm by 2020, which is a reflection of its enormous resource base. Other objectives and priorities are as follows:

remain the third largest gas producer in the world with gas production of 360 bcm per annum by 2025;

inject gas into the oil fields to maintain and increase oil production;

supply gas to power stations, gas-based industries and petrochemicals and to export the value-added products at economically viable prices;

replace domestic demand for petroleum products with natural gas and maintain the share of gas in Irans energy basket above 70%; and

export gas to the regional countries, the Indian subcontinent and Europe.

Experts note one omission  a strategy to produce liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is easier to transport to distant markets, including Europe. Though Tehran has one significant project in this sector, Iran LNG, the development of this technologically more complex branch of the gas sector is not a priority for Iran in the medium term.

Iran's vision for gas ties in well with the Document on Resistance Economy, which emphasizes value-added activities and increases in gas and electricity exports as well as the export of petrochemicals and petroleum products. Each of the above steps makes sense as components of a strategy driven by domestic value generation. Yet each step presents Iran with challenges that need to be overcome.

First and foremost, increasing production from 202 bcm to 360 bcm by 2025 will require an investment of more than $50 billion in upstream projects in addition to which further capacities will be needed mid-stream (such as pipelines) and downstream. The issue in achieving the above goal is not the availability of projects, but the investment flows and Iran's ability to absorb this level of investment considering the restrictions of its contractual framework, especially concerning local content. As such, the pace of the production increase may be slower than officials hope.

Notwithstanding, there will be considerable growth in production capacity, and the surplus gas will need to be allocated to various sectors. As the above vision indicates, injecting gas into oil fields has been a priority, and this goal seems to be sufficiently addressed. When it comes to distributing gas to other sectors  such as electricity generation, petrochemicals, industries, etc.  the Ministry of Petroleum faces multiple challenges. On the one side, there is sectoral competition, as gas can help each of these sectors to flourish. On the other side, regional competitions undermine national planning by the relevant companies. Furthermore, the distribution of gas across Irans vast geography faces operational and practical bottlenecks such as land ownership, environmental issues and so on.

At the same time, attracting investment and technology into gas-based industries will require a comprehensive strategy for contractual frameworks, including gas pricing, an issue that has not been resolved due to disagreements among political stakeholders.

As for increasing the share of natural gas to about 70% of the domestic energy basket, according to the deputy minister in charge of gas, Hamid Reza Araghi, gas is already 72% of the countrys energy basket, though according to the BP review, the gas share was less than 65% in 2015. Whatever the actual figure, reaching a 70% share by 2025 is feasible, if the needed investments materialize.

Finally, the goal of exporting gas to neighboring countries is already in place, with Iran exporting gas to Turkey and Iraq, preparing to export to Oman and negotiating to export to Pakistan. The plan is to export to as many neighbors as possible and to also look for potential in other regions, including Europe. The challenge of exporting gas is, however, seen in the relationship between Turkey and Iran. Their so-called take or pay contract has been subject to a number of disputes, including the most recent arbitration that forced Iran to export gas free of charge to Turkey, a source of political controversy in Tehran. The fact is, cross-border links are challenging in politically unstable West Asia. At the same time, some stakeholders in Tehran are arguing that Iran should export energy in the form of electricity, which is more feasible to energy interconnectivity.

Natural gas also plays a role in the relationship between Iran and Qatar, the two nations that share the largest gas basin in the world, known as South Pars in Iran and North Dome in Qatar. The shared interest in sustaining and increasing the wealth potential of this reserve has helped the two sides develop a pragmatic relationship that stands to benefit both sides, especially considering the current anti-Qatar sentiment in the Gulf Cooperation Council. Even though there is always potential for tensions in operating shared fields, Tehran will not interfere with Qatars operations. Iranian Petroleum Minister Bijan Zanganeh recently stated, They can carry out their development projects as we do ours.

Gas flaring represents another operational challenge that will gain in significance in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. Incidentally, Tehran is making an effort and accordingly seeks to extinguish associated gas flares at South Pars fields by March 2020.

There is no doubt that Iran has a huge potential in the gas sector. As outlined by Al-Monitor more than three years ago, Tehran needs to reform its gas sector by introducing an appropriate gas-pricing strategy as well as legal, operational and political frameworks that will attract the latest technologies to all subsectors of the gas value chain and promote gas-based industries as well as energy efficiency. Despite existing challenges, the technocratic team around Zanganeh is experienced enough to introduce the needed policies, but the complexities in the political structure as well as regional uncertainties will continue to delay the realization of the countrys full gas potential.
September 18, 2017

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa denounces the Arab boycott of Israel and allows the subjects of his kingdom in the Gulf to visit Israel freely. This appeared in a declaration that was revealed Sept. 15 during a multinational event at the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles. The kings surprising declaration, including a harsh denouncement of terror, was published by The Jerusalem Post Sept. 17.

The kings pronouncements were revealed at the event by American Rabbis Marvin Hier and Abraham Cooper, who head the Simon Wiesenthal Center. They received the statements from the king himself during a visit they made to Bahrain at the beginning of the year, and they had received permission to make the declaration public at this time. (Bahrain does not have diplomatic relations with Israel.) The king told them that he plans to establish a museum of religious tolerance by the end of the year. Hier and Cooper spoke enthusiastically about their visit to Manama, the capital of Bahrain, and the prayer houses they saw that represent the major religions: a church with a large cross on top, a Hindu temple next door, a small mosque in the same area and an ancient synagogue, too.

It has been almost two full days since the declaration of the Bahraini king went public and, so far, no denial has been circulated.

The son of the Bahraini king, Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, also spoke at the event in Los Angeles, and the Bahrain National Orchestra played Israel's national anthem Hatikva preceded by the Bahraini and US national anthems. The event itself was devoted to religious tolerance and the struggle against terror and violence. Members of all of the religions were in attendance, and all listened respectfully to each national anthem.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry kept mum and refused to release a statement about the king's proclamation. Associates of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (who also serves as Israels foreign minister) remained silent, too. No one wants to fix something that is not broken. Highly placed diplomatic sources in Jerusalem told Al-Monitor that the kings declaration did not surprise any of Netanyahus associates.

The Wiesenthal Center has been active in Bahrain for years, an Israeli official said on condition of anonymity. The center brings guests from Bahrain to visit Israel and even helped the Bahraini government renovate an ancient synagogue. A Jewish woman [Nancy Khedouri] is a member of the Bahraini parliament, replacing another Jewish member who served a few years. Let's not forget that Bahrain is the country most threatened of all by Iran, because the Bahraini public is mainly Shiite, while its rulers are Sunni. That is the reason that Bahrain  like other countries in the region  view Israel as a kind of prospect for support, vis-a-vis the specter of increasing Iranian might.

In recent years, Bahrain has begun to slowly externalize its relations with Israel. Khedouri recently met Israeli Transportation and Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz at a conference of the World Jewish Congress, and the two were even seen in public together.

Meanwhile, most of Bahrains pro-Israel activity takes place through the heads of the Jewish community in the United States, in order to stay close to Washington and earn points in the White House. Qatar is also very active in this sphere, as the country is under a Sunni blockade in the Middle East.

Al-Monitor learned that the government in Bahrain recently contacted high-ranking officials in Israel with the suggestion to institutionalize mutual visits and trade between the two countries. Bahrain has nothing to lose, an Israeli diplomatic source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. It is a small country on Irans radar and truly on the front lines. Nonetheless, diplomatic sources claim that Bahrains changed attitude reflects Saudi Arabias stance. Statements such as the one by Bahrains king are not made without receiving the go-ahead from Riyadh. It is likely, they argue, that Saudi Arabia was the one encouraging Bahrain to step forward in regard to Israel. Saudi Arabia has recently been trying to draw closer to Iran and is keeping its options open by not giving up on its relations with Israel.

The Bahraini statements constitute a rare but significant victory for Netanyahu. High-placed Israelis have, in recent years, hinted at the fact that Israel conducts "underground" relationships with its Middle East neighbors, including those with whom it does not have diplomatic relations. Netanyahu himself repeated in recent weeks and on Sept. 15 from New York that Israel will not tolerate an Iranian foothold in Syria. "An [Iranian] military presence endangers not just us, but also our Arab neighbors," he said.

In this way, Netanyahu revealed a bit of the underground drama taking place in which Israel assumes the main, on-stage role while the rest of the actors hide in the margins at best, or inside the closet, at worst.

Israel has been demanding that the United States, Russia and the entire global community prevent Iran from having a presence in Syria and being anywhere near the Israeli border. According to Israeli sources, these efforts have also reflected the desires of the pragmatic Sunni countries. The members of this covert alliance, which was once composed of US allies in the region, now look desperately at the Trump administration; these states are concerned over the United States' intentions to disengage from the Middle East after the victory over the Islamic State is completed. This disengagement, which will abandon the arena to Iran and Russia, intensifies the panic in the Gulf on one hand, but also strengthens the self-confidence of the Sunni states into publicizing forbidden relations with Israel, on the other.

The words of the Bahraini king are only the tip of the iceberg.
September 15, 2017

Supreme Court justices claim that their Sept. 12 decision to overturn the amendment to the Recruitment law, passed by this government in 2015, was intended to force new legislation that would treat Israeli citizens more equitably. In fact, according to the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) assessment, it will actually hinder the dramatic growth in the number of ultra-Orthodox men who enlist. The reason is that the increase in drafting numbers stems from understandings between the army and the ultra-Orthodox leaders, which are based on a conciliatory mood within the ultra-Orthodox sector (as the law no longer forces them to draft). The new ruling revives the sense of persecution within the sector, strengthening the extremists who object to integration into Israeli society in general, and an army draft in particular.

A panel of nine judges ruled 8-1 that the Knesset must repeal the amendment within a year. The amendment allows yeshiva students to extend their exemption up to 2023, effectively releasing them from compulsory military duty. According to the justices, the amendment was unconstitutional. Justice Elyakim Rubinstein wrote, "Military service in the Israel Defense Forces is exactly what the name implies. It is a defense force, defending all of us, and not some default choice for people forced into it by the powers that be. As long as the current saga continues, laws will come and go, while the bitter feeling of inequality continues."

Obviously, the ruling elicited harsh responses from ultra-Orthodox representatives. Health Minister Yaakov Litzman accused the Supreme Court of trying to bring down the government and said that it has become necessary to pass legislation to limit the court's power. Deputy Minister Meir Porush compared the Supreme Court's ruling to nothing less than a military putsch.

Ultra-Orthodox politicians are now planning to respond on two fronts: They plan to come up with a new amendment to the Recruitment law, which would prevent forcing the ultra-Orthodox to enlist, but which would still be ruled acceptable by the Supreme Court, and they plan to pass legislation that would limit the power of the Supreme Court to overturn Knesset legislation. While Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman is expected to oppose the proposed amendment, he will throw all his political weight into supporting the legislation to limit the court's power. One day after the ruling, Liberman said that while he supports the recruitment of ultra-Orthodox men, the way that the Supreme Court is ruling on issues that are not of its concern is absurd, and the Basic Laws determining the scope of its authority should be re-examined.

Opposing this is Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon of Kulanu. Kahlon said last year that he would avoid doing anything to harm the Supreme Court, but that was before he suffered a severe blow from its justices, when they overruled the Third Apartment Tax law, which he initiated and got passed by the Knesset.

Netanyahu will now have to find a solution that is acceptable to all factions in his coalition.

Meanwhile, the IDF is worried about the immediate implications of the ruling. Given the increase in the number of ultra-Orthodox recruits over the last few years and their special religious requirements, the IDF plans to create a new ultra-Orthodox battalion, in addition to the Netzah Yehuda Battalion of the Kfir Brigade, and to increase the number of places available in the ultra-Orthodox frameworks of the Givati and Paratroopers brigades. At the same time, a senior military source involved in the issue told Al-Monitor that there is some concern that the trend will be hindered.

Figures communicated to Al-Monitor from the Manpower Division of the General Staff show that in the past three years, the number of ultra-Orthodox recruits rose by 12-13% per year, with 2,800 young men enlisting in 2016. According to that same military source, the IDF's expectation for 2017 was 3,200 new recruits.

Between 1997 and 2007, only 1,500 ultra-Orthodox men enlisted, compared to 16,500 in the last decade. In other words, there were 11 times more recruits in the past 10 years. The Manpower Division also said there are currently 7,000 ultra-Orthodox soldiers serving in the IDF, many of them in combat divisions like the Paratroopers, Givati and the Netzah Yehuda Battalion. Some 400 of them are career soldiers, mainly in technological posts.

There is, of course, also the economic aspect. Figures published by researcher Asaf Malchi of the Israel Democracy Institute show that almost 90% of ultra-Orthodox recruits to the IDF were integrated into the job market upon their release from the army. A decline in the number of recruits would therefore lead to a decline in their employment rates.

Almost all parties involved in the issue share the IDF's concern that this positive trend in ultra-Orthodox enlistment could grind to a halt. Deputy Defense Minister Eli Ben Dahan told Al-Monitor that the Supreme Court should have given the Recruitment law time to prove itself and show that it is instigating positive change within the ultra-Orthodox community and in sharing the drafting burden. He said that the ruling is a serious blow to the process by which the ultra-Orthodox have integrated into Israeli society over the past few years, and that the judges ignored the dramatic shift among the ultra-Orthodox in favor of the IDF. If in the past it was impossible to obtain permission from the rabbis to enlist, the amendment that was just overturned by the Supreme Court showed that ultra-Orthodox politicians and rabbis do accept in principle the idea of enlistment.

Past experience shows that court rulings and decisions of this kind, which are seen by the ultra-Orthodox community as threatening forced enlistment, have a negative impact on recruitment figures. For instance, with the repeal of the Tal law in 2012, which allowed full-time yeshiva students to defer national service, the percentage of ultra-Orthodox men enlisting in the IDF plummeted from 28% to just 14%. In 2014, with the passing of the Sharing the Burden law initiated by Yesh Atid, which is perceived as an enemy of the ultra-Orthodox sector, the annual growth rate dropped again, from 35% to just 12%.

Gilad Malach of the Israel Democracy Institute agrees with the assessment that the recent Supreme Court ruling will have a similar impact, at least in the short term. He told Al-Monitor that another attempt to introduce criminal sanctions against yeshiva students refusing to enlist  like the law passed by Yesh Atid, which was replaced after the 2015 election with the amendment that was just overturned  would be detrimental to the recruitment of yeshiva students. He noted that the focus should be on linking the number of students enlisting in the army to the budgets that the state grants to the yeshivas.

Rabbi Moshe Ravad, a former chief rabbi of the Israeli air force and one of the people behind the Shahar technology track for ultra-Orthodox recruits, told Al-Monitor that until 10 years ago, no one would have believed that thousands of young ultra-Orthodox men would enlist every year. The secret, he said, is dialogue between the military leadership and the rabbis, especially the quiet kind of dialogue, which indeed resulted in an increase in the number of ultra-Orthodox recruits. Ravad warned that the Supreme Court ruling, on the other hand, would increase opposition to the IDF among the ultra-Orthodox public and potentially even to a worsening of attacks targeting ultra-Orthodox men who do enlist.

Even if it was the right decision, legally and constitutionally, the Supreme Court's ruling could actually help those forces opposed to the integration of the ultra-Orthodox into society. The numbers prove that dialogue and cooperation with the ultra-Orthodox leadership on the drafting issue leads to an increase in the number of yeshiva students who serve in the IDF. Furthermore, the decision could result in ultra-Orthodox community activists playing a more active role in the fight by certain forces in the Knesset to limit the authority of the Supreme Court.
September 18, 2017

Russia appears poised to play a major role in supporting a sovereign state of Palestine and has noticeably increased economic cooperation, investment and higher-education scholarships. This was one of the conclusions a joint Russian-Palestinian committee and some 30 business executives reached during a high-level visit to Ramallah during the second week of September.

Palestinian Ambassador to Moscow Abdel Hafiz Nofal said Moscow wants to play a much more active role in the Palestinian issue. Speaking at a press conference Sept. 14 at the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate in Ramallah, Nofal said the bilateral relationship is strong.

The solid relationship between Russia and Palestine will have a positive effect on the Palestinian cause now that [Russia] has made it clear that what happens in our area is part of its sphere of vital influence," he said.

Russia, which recognized the state of Palestine in 1988, appears keen on increasing its investment in tourism, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and education. The Russian delegation signed 39 contracts during its visit in investment areas such as pharmaceuticals and industrial cities, the ambassador said.

Samer Salameh, director general of the Palestinian Ministry of Labor, met with Russian Deputy Minister of Labor Alex Cherkasov as part of the committees visit Sept. 12, and the men reached cooperative agreements. Palestinian news agency Maan said Russia will provide practical support to Palestinians in various areas including vocational training, health, safety, labor monitoring and legislation.

Khaled Ghazal, a member of the Ramallah municipality who is active in Russian-Palestinian relations, told Al-Monitor Russia is interested in citrus trade, scientific cooperation and educational exchanges. In the past, many Palestinians went to Moscow and other Russian cities through scholarships, Ghazal said, noting these educational opportunities had slowed in recent years for economic reasons. Now, with Russia's increased interest in Palestine, such connections will increase along with joint investments, he said.

Nofal also told journalists at the press briefing that Russian President Vladimir Putin told him personally that he would like to see an increase in Russian tourism to Palestine.

The Russian Church has developed into a major Putin ally, and both support a Palestinian state. The Orthodox Russian Church has properties in Palestine, and the rejuvenated Russian Orthodox faithful have been visiting Palestinian holy places in droves. Russian pilgrims to Palestine and Israel annually amount to nearly one-quarter of all visitors. In 2014, of the 3.3 million pilgrims who visited the Holy Land, 22% (726,000) were Russian Orthodox.

Issa Hanna, an independent Palestinian Christian Orthodox researcher in Jerusalem, told Al-Monitor that Russia is offering cooperation on two parallel tracks: economic and political. There is a lot of cooperation in the tourism field, with Palestine participating in a tourism exhibit in Moscow [in March 2017] aimed at attracting Russian Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land.

Hanna added that Russia has offered 150 scholarships to Palestinians this year, and Russia invested $40 million to set up a Russian cultural center in Bethlehem. Hanna, who heads the Islamic Christian Council, noted that Russia has been supportive of Palestinian rights, including the right to an independent state based on the 1967 borders.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Putin both made video conference "appearances" during the May launch of the Putin Foundation for Culture and Economics.

Abbas had met with Putin May 12 at the Sochi resort in western Russia and announced that finding a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be impossible without Russia's help.

It is impossible to solve the Palestinian issue without Russias meaningful participation in the peace process. That is what we have been emphasizing at all international meetings, Abbas said during his meeting with Putin, according to the official Russian state news agency Tass.

Putin had announced that Russia will continue to give its full support to the resumption of direct dialogue between Palestinians and Israelis."

"The peaceful coexistence of the two states  Palestine and Israel  is an indispensable condition to ensure genuine security and stability in this region, Putin said, with Abbas standing next to him.

The Palestinian ambassador to Russia said at the same press conference in Ramallah that Abbas will meet Sept. 20 with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during the UN General Assembly meetings in New York.
September 18, 2017

BEIRUT  They called me a whore, an animal, said Rosemary, who arrived in Beirut from Kenya four years ago. Her story, online at Anti-Racism Movement (ARM), is one of constant name-calling, verbal abuse and physical attacks, experiences that are probably familiar for every black woman living in Lebanon.

Rosemary, who withheld her last name, her Nigerian husband and their child vacated their apartment in early September after a string of abuse by their neighbors. Rosemary told Al-Monitor that she had come to Lebanon to work as a cleaner. She met her husband here, and they had a daughter. While Rosemary was pregnant in August 2015, the couple moved into a small apartment in the marginalized neighborhood of Nabaa.

Tired and sick due to her pregnancy, Rosemary began cooking on her balcony, lacking the energy to go up and down the stairs of the apartment to the small, stuffy and ill-equipped kitchen on the floor below the living quarters. The neighbors above  a Lebanese Armenian woman living with her son and daughter-in-law, relatives of the buildings landlord  began complaining about the aroma of her food and threw dirty water at her.

So, I started cooking in the room, Rosemary told Al-Monitor. But it wasnt enough. They started making problems again. After I delivered, I cleaned and fixed up the kitchen, because the landlord wouldnt help. But my neighbor was still complaining. I asked her what she wanted. She said she didnt like black people, that we were animals. Things got worse every day. Each time the woman and her son passed by the kitchen window, they would call me a prostitute.

There was always some kind of problem: The washing machine was too noisy, their food was too smelly and on it went. Daily life for Rosemary and her family became filled with humiliation and anger as well as fear that the verbal abuse hurled at them would one day turn into physical assault.

According to the narrative on the ARM website, their fears became a reality on Aug. 29: The neighbors stormed into the couple's house, attacked them, hit them both, pulled a big chunk out of the dreadlocks of the husband, insulted their baby daughter, calling her things like small, black animal and dog and calling the wife a whore. They also threatened to kill them, literally, if they don't leave the house ASAP. Most of what was said and done was captured on video and audio.

Distressed, the couple contacted an employee of the Kenyan Consulate and the leader of the local Nigerian community. When they arrived at the apartment, they too were subjected to verbal abuse and attacked, so they called the police. After arriving, the officers saw the evidence of what had happened  the husband's hair, bruises and recordings  but concluded, as ARM reported, The best thing would be for the African family to comply and evacuate the house as soon as possible, for their safety. No action was taken against their attackers.

After publication of what had transpired, offers of help poured in. The family was able to move into a new apartment. Rosemary told Al-Monitor that she feels relieved and peaceful, without insults every day.

Stories like Rosemarys illustrate the core of ARMs fight against deeply rooted racism in Lebanon. Rosemary said that except for her neighbors, she has experienced little racism in Lebanon, although there have been numerous reports on racism in the country, especially toward black people, and for abuse of domestic workers in Lebanese homes.

I have Lebanese, Syrian, Armenian and African friends, Rosemary said. Some people come up to talk to me in the streets to ask if Im Ethiopian, because a lot of maids are from there, and they are surprised that Im Kenyan and have the same color of skin as the Ethiopians.

Farah Salka, executive director of ARM, told Al-Monitor, I think Rosemary has quite a high degree of tolerance when it comes to racism, explaining that Rosemary has been subject to racist acts but did not recognize them as such, except for the violence she experienced at the hands of her former neighbors. The situation she has been through is not unusual at all; I hear it every week. A lot of people commented [on] the post, especially women, who have been in the same situation because of the color of their skin. Just yesterday, a woman from Cameroon who married a Lebanese man sent me a message because she had been forbidden to enter a park with her daughter. I see so many cases of blatant and violent racism. This is so depressing.

With Rosemary's post, ARM activists raised $700 to help the family move. Some people helped find a place for them to live, and others offered their vehicles to help them move. The mobilization made Salka a little more hopeful about the future.

We thank everyone who helped, really, Salka said. We want to keep working directly with people affected by racism and documenting [their experiences], because with time, more and more people realize the graveness of the situation. If people dont accept whats going on and stand up for equality, policymakers will be forced to put a law on the agenda. Its pressure that will be impossible to ignore, and even if its going slow, we are going in the right direction.

Rosemarys family consider themselves fortunate for the assistance and support they received. Rosemary insisted, We are all human beings, and the way you treat your neighbor will come back to you, so lets just be human.
September 18, 2017

NEW YORK  US President Donald Trump made a buoyant case for Middle East peace today at the UN, the start of a weeklong opportunity to showcase his vaunted dealmaking skills on the world stage.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first bilateral meeting on the margins of the UN General Assembly, quickly sought to shift the conversation back to the two mens shared dislike of the nuclear deal with Iran.

Peace between the Palestinians and Israel  it will be a fantastic achievement, Trump said. We are giving it an absolute go. I think there's a good chance that it could happen.

I actually think with the capability of Bibi and, frankly, the other side, I really think we have a chance, Trump added, using a common nickname for the Israeli leader. So we're working very hard on it. We'll see what happens.

Netanyahu for his part extolled the strength of US-Israeli relations under Trumps leadership, giving peace prospects with the Palestinians a backseat to a hard line on Iran.

"I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly call is the terrible nuclear deal with Iran and how to roll back Iran's growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria, Netanyahu said.

As you said, we will discuss the way we can seize the opportunity for peace between Israel and the Palestinians and between Israel and the Arab world, Netanyahu continued. I think these things go together, and we look forward to talking about how we can advance both.

As Netanyahu pressed Trump to take a more aggressive stance on Iran, other world leaders were urging the US president not to walk away from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, speaking ahead of Trumps meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron this afternoon, stressed that fully implementing the Iran nuclear deal would be critical to stopping nuclear proliferation and maintaining international credibility as the world tries to address other nuclear threats like North Korea.

Its essential to maintain it to prevent a spiral of proliferation that would encourage hard-liners in Iran to pursue nuclear weapons, Le Drian told journalists in New York today. France will try to persuade President Trump of the importance of this choice.

Le Drians comments highlight how this years General Assembly gathering has become a venue for world leaders trying to press Trump to uphold international agreements. The US administration has notably displayed deep ambivalence and internal conflict about the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate accords.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected to have his first encounter with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Wednesday evening at a meeting of the eight-member Joint Commission overseeing JCPOA implementation in New York. Ahead of that critical encounter, political directors from Iran and the six world powers that negotiated the 2015 deal are scheduled to meet Tuesday afternoon.

The Trump administration last week once again extended sanctions relief to Iran as called for by the nuclear deal. But now an Oct. 15 deadline mandated by Congress looms, requiring Trump to decide whether to certify that Iran is still complying with the deal and that sticking with it is in the US national interest. If Trump opts not to certify, Congress can choose to fast-track the re-imposition of sanctions waived under the deal in exchange for Iran rolling back its nuclear program.

Trump, asked today by a reporter if he planned to stay in the Iran nuclear deal, would not commit either way.

Youll see very soon, Trump said. Youll be seeing very soon.

Regardless of how he ends up coming down on the deal, Trump is expected to take a harsh line on both North Korea and Iran at his debut address to the UN on Tuesday, US officials said. They suggested his speech would urge the rest of the world to take a bigger role in confronting shared global threats, a central theme of Trumps presidential campaign.
September 18, 2017

ERBIL, Iraq  As Iraqi Kurdistan heads to a controversial independence referendum on Sept. 25, divisions are running deep in the Turkmen community, which, like the Kurds, has claims over the oil-rich city of Kirkuk.

Turkey's official policy terms Kirkuk a Turkmen city, and many Turks generally think that all Turkmens are on the same page. But the reality on the ground is different. To start with, the Turkmens in Erbil and Kirkuk differ in their stances on the prospect of Kurdish independence. Some Turkmens insist on the territorial integrity of Iraq, but others argue that cohabitation with the Kurds is easier. The Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF), the largest party representing the Turkmens, is opposed to the referendum, while the Turkmen Development Party, founded by a group that split from the ITF, backs the referendum, arguing that Kurdistan is already a de facto state dealing directly with foreign countries.

Turkeys and Irans policies are another factor swaying Turkmen positions. For quite a while, Turkey has been advising the Turkmens to stay on good terms with the Kurds, which is contributing to the divergence of positions. Shiite Turkmens, meanwhile, have turned increasingly to Baghdad since the Islamic States (IS) onslaught in 2014.

Based on their reactions to the referendum, two major trends are discernible among the Turkmens. For those who live in Erbil, the Kurdistan project is not much of a problem. They argue they have been able to preserve their language and culture in Kurdistan, while Turkmens in the rest of Iraq have been obliterated. The Turkmens in Kirkuk, meanwhile, are worried that an independent Kurdistan would lead to the fragmentation of Turkmen areas, with the city of Kirkuk probably going to Kurdistan and towns such as Taza Khormato, Tal Afar, Tuz Khormato, Amerli, Qarah Tabbah and Jalawla staying with Iraq. This would mean an end to the dream of a Turkmen homeland, idealized in nationalist quarters.

ITF member Aydin Maruf, one of the five Turkmens in the Kurdistan parliament, paints a tough outlook for a community hit by geographical and sectarian divisions and relying on different powers for protection.

Maruf told Al-Monitor that Baghdads sectarian polices had pushed the Kurds to seek independence, arguing that the Iraqi Kurdistan Region had progressed both politically and democratically. Holding a referendum is a right. Kurds, Arabs and Turkmens alike can do that, he said.

Maruf said the referendum was causing problems mostly in Kirkuk and Mosul. In the disputed areas, neither Turkmens nor Arabs accept the referendum, and 70% of Turkmens live in the disputed areas, he said, stressing that the Kurds should have sought dialogue with other ethnic groups, including the Turkmens, before making the move.

He said that according to the Iraqi Constitution, Kirkuk, Tuz Khormato, Taza Khormato and Tal Afar do not belong to the Kurdistan region. Their status must be resolved within a constitutional framework. Thats why the Iraqi Turkmen Front does not accept holding the referendum in the disputed areas, he said.

We have never opposed the rights of the Kurds, Maruf said. We are living together. When the Baath regime [stormed the region] in 1991, the bombs rained on all of us. Our destiny is one. If there is a [Kurdish] state, we will be in that state, and if there is a war, we will be in that war as well. Im talking about Erbil here. The situation is different for those in Kirkuk and Mosul. If Iraq disintegrates, will it be only Kurdistan seceding? The Sunni Arabs might secede as well. Then, what will happen to the Turkmens in Mosul and Tal Afar?

While some Turkmens charge that the Kurds have been trying to Kurdicize Kirkuk and cannot be trusted, the Kurds argue that Kurdistan is the best guarantee of Turkmen rights. According to prominent Kurdish commentator Massoud Abdulkhaliq, Kirkuks Turkmens would be better off as part of Kurdistan. The Turkmens used to have presence in all provinces and districts of Iraq. Now it is only in Kurdistan, which means they get along better with the Kurds than with the Arabs. No one is harassing them here, he told Al-Monitor in Erbil. They insist that Kirkuk remain attached to Baghdad, but if it does, they will be finished in Kirkuk, too, as they were in other regions.

The ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) rejects accusations that the Turkmens have been subjected to ethnic cleansing and excluded from the administration.

In an interview with Al-Monitor, Mohammed Khurshid, the KDP head in Kirkuk, described a tradition of cultural diversity involving Kurds, Turkmens, Jews and Christians. That is why Kirkuk natives are called quadrilinguals, he said.

Khurshid continued, After 1930, Bedouin Arabs were settled in Hawija to the south of Kirkuk. In 1963, the Arabs of Hawija attacked the Kurds, setting 300 villages ablaze. Hawija has always been a threat to Kirkuk. They attacked Turkmen villages as well. The Arabs of Hawija seized Turkmen lands. The [Arabization] project accelerated after 1974 under Saddam Hussein. In 1988, all Kurdish villages in Kirkuk were burned and destroyed. A total of 758 villages were either destroyed or resettled with Arabs. The people exiled from Kirkuk settled in Dahuk and Erbil.

Khurshid denied any deliberate Kurdish policy to drive the Turkmens out of Kirkuk. I dont say there are no assassinations and explosions, but no Kurdish group has a policy of denial vis-a-vis the Turkmens, he said. Before 2003, there was not even one Turkmen school in the city. Thanks to the Kurdish government, the Turkmens have opened several schools. They are even using the Latin alphabet. The Iraqi government does not accept that, but we do. Khurshid drew a comparison to Erbil, where, he said, Turkmens had a school before 2003. He argued that Kurds had been supportive of the idea that Turkmens hold senior administrative posts.

The status of Kurds who were driven out of rural Kirkuk is an issue. Khurshid said the Iraqi government failed to provide support to revive the old villages. As a result, the people settled not in the villages but in the cities. The Turkmens are now complaining that the Kurds have settled in urban centers.  The Kurds moved to lands allocated by the government, not to other peoples homes, he said, adding that Jalal Talabani, a Kurd who served as president of Iraq, built 1,000 homes in the town of Bashir, near Kirkuk, and gave them away to Turkmen returnees.

In our view, Kirkuk belongs to all of us. Its a city of all nationalities and religions, Khurshid said. He referred also to a proposal he had drawn up at the request of Kurdish leaders for a special status for Kirkuk within Kurdistan. The proposal, presented to representatives of other groups on July 30, outlines a power-sharing formula according to which the bloc that comes out first in the elections gets the governors post, the second the post of provincial council speaker, the third the deputy governors post and the fourth the deputy speakers post. Given the demographic structure, the governors post would likely go to the Kurds, the speakers post to the Arabs, the deputy governors post to the Turkmens and the deputy speakers post to the Christians, Khurshid said. Yet, he added, the Turkmens demand that the third ticket gets both the deputy governors and deputy speakers posts. We reject that because the Christians would be cast out.

Beyond those disagreements, another important factor has changed Turkmen perspectives. Because they see Turkey as a protector and guarantor, Turkmens used to say they did not need to arm themselves. Yet at least 12,000 Turkmens have joined the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) since the force was created in 2014 to fight IS, and now many believe that the PMU would fight for the Turkmens if need be.

The fear of an armed conflict with the PMU is rife among the Kurds. Recalling the 2015 flare-up between the Kurdish peshmerga forces and the PMU in Tuz Khormato, Abdulkhaliq said, In Mosul, [the PMU] controls 12 of the 16 disputed areas, while the remaining four are in peshmerga hands. The danger of clashes is more serious in Tuz Khormato and to the south of Kirkuk.

Former KDP lawmaker Aso Karim drew attention to the PMUs Iranian connections. [The PMU] is growing and could step into action to retake the disputed areas. Iran is influential here, he said.

In an interview in Sulaimaniyah, Jalal Jawhar, a senior member of the Movement for Change (Gorran), also voiced concern that actors opposed to Kurdistan could start clashes in the disputed areas.

The referendum may be a natural right of the Kurds, but myriad uncertainties engulf the day after. The Kurds might still be able to avoid disaster scenarios if they follow more inclusive, flexible and prudent policies.
September 18, 2017

Showcasing large weapons across the street from your neighbors driveway is a sure way to get their attention. Turkey did just that with a military exercise across the Habur border crossing with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) of Iraq.

According to Turkeys state-owned news agency Anadolu, the Turkish Armed Forces launched exercises Sept. 18 outside the town of Silopi, which sits less than 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the intersection of Turkeys borders with Syria and Iraq. Turkish and international news outlets reported that approximately 100 tanks, armored personnel carriers and self-propelled artilleries are participating in the drill. The timing and venue of the exercises leave little doubt that Ankara is displeased with the Sept. 25 independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Defense analyst Arda Mevlutoglu told Al-Monitor in an email interview, The [Turkish military's] statement underlines that the exercise is being conducted in coordination with the internal security operations in the region. However, such a massive mechanized maneuver is hardly reminiscent of counterterrorism operations: It resembles more of a cross-border incursion.  This exercise can be assessed as a strong message to the KRG before the Sept. 25 referendum.

Asked whether Ankara is warning the KRG not to hold the referendum or to refrain from unilaterally declaring independence, Mevlutoglu highlighted recent statements by Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and President Recep Tayyip Erdogans spokesman and senior adviser Ibrahim Kalin. On Sept. 14, Kalin called on the KRG to backtrack on the referendum mistake.

Although Turkey is signaling its displeasure to Erbil, a military intervention over the KRGs legally nonbinding referendum may not be wise or legally justified.

Bleda Kurtdarcan, a global security analyst and lecturer at Istanbuls Galatasaray University Faculty of Law, told Al-Monitor, Just like Western countries famed gunboat diplomacy in the 19th and 20th centuries, Turkey is conducting self-propelled artillery diplomacy against the KRG.

Kurtdarcan said that while Turkeys concerns are politically legitimate, using the referendum in the KRG as a legal reason for a military intervention may not be tenable under international law. Use of force is an exceptional option in international law  if not for a UN Security Council resolution or in case of self-defense or a request by the central authority of a country, it is hard to justify.

He pointed out, however, If the KRG were to declare independence unilaterally, then the situation would change. In that case, the internationally recognized central authority in Iraq  the central government in Baghdad  could call upon the international community and neighboring countries to help it with an insurgency. Baghdad has that option.

Kurtdarcan added, Turkey doesnt need to be aggressive or belligerent at a time when it has sound legal options. Ankara could tell Baghdad that it could help against Erbil. But if Turkey were to intervene in northern Iraq without a direct request from Baghdad, that would be legally untenable. Things would get more complicated, especially because Turkey was an ally of KRG President Massoud Barzani until recently.

To be sure, none of this may faze Barzani. As Al-Monitor previously reported, Barzani said in a TV interview on Sept. 9, Kurds are ready to respond in kind should any party enter [disputed and Kurdish-controlled] Kirkuk by force. Barzani and other Kurdish leaders have stated repeatedly that neither a military intervention by Turkey or Iran nor the two regional powers closing their borders will prevent the Sept. 25 referendum from taking place.

Events on the ground in Iraq are moving at a breakneck pace. Following Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadis request, the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq ordered Iraqi Kurdistan to halt the referendum Sept. 18. According to Reuters, the court issued an order to stop the procedures of the referendum planned on Sept. 25  by the Kurdistan regional presidency. Whether the concerted efforts of Baghdad, regional powers and the international community will change Iraqi Kurdish minds remains to be seen.
September 15, 2017

Aysel Tugluk, the deputy chair of the Peoples Democratic Party (HDP), is a well-known Kurdish politician in Turkey who is currently in jail on terrorism-related charges, like many other HDP members. But the reason her name made headlines this week was unprecedented.

On Sept. 13, Tugluk received special permission to attend the funeral of her mother, who died while her daughter remained behind bars. Hatun Tugluk had wished to be buried in Ankara's Incek Cemetery, which she could see from a window in her home.

Arriving at the cemetery in a prison vehicle, Tugluk could have hardly imagined that the painful experience of bidding farewell to her mother would turn into an even more harrowing ordeal. While the funeral, attended by this reporter, proceeded, about two dozen people descended on the cemetery, shouting nationalist slogans and swearing they would not allow terrorists to be buried there. The group quickly expanded to more than 100 people who tried to force their way into the burial ground. Some wielded sticks and shouted Allahu akbar, the Arabic phrase for God is great. They had even brought along a tractor  to remove the body after burial.

Riot police were already on duty around the cemetery since senior Kurdish figures were attending the funeral. Yet the police only issued verbal warnings, despite requests from HDP lawmakers in attendance to physically stop the group.

Some members of the mob, with sticks and stones in their hands, were able to get close to the lawmakers. Though no one was injured, the mourners remained stranded at the scene. The assault was so intense that the Tugluk family decided to exhume the body and take it to their native Tunceli for reburial. The coffin was returned to the funeral vehicle, which was just about to leave when Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu arrived, insisting the burial could still take place there. Yet Hatun Tugluks wish for her final resting place remained unmet, as neither the Tugluk family nor HDP lawmakers were convinced that the grave would not be assaulted later.

Their apprehension was not without reason. Since the Kurdish peace process collapsed in 2015, a series of incidents have shown that not even dead Kurds are spared from offense. The 2015-2016 crackdown on Kurdish militants holed up in urban areas in the southeast claimed many civilian lives. Bodies were left in the streets for days and even dragged behind vehicles or paraded on social media.

For HDP lawmaker Mithat Sancar, the incident is the latest episode in a series of attacks over the past two years, targeting not only HDP buildings and activists but also ordinary Kurds such as shopkeepers and workers. He holds the government responsible for emboldening mob violence, which he calls a lynching culture.

Lynching culture is a power technique, an instrument of a governing style and oppression. They lay the ground for it, encourage it and protect the mobs, Sancar said.

In the past several years, the government has known no limits in vilifying the HDP, while scaling up nationalist bluster, with pro-government media amply using hate speech, he said. In each and every statement of the government or the interior minister, the HDP is shown as a target and criminalized. What happened at the funeral is the result of all this. By polarizing society so much, by fanning tensions you are in fact encouraging such attacks.

The incident at the funeral sparked widespread outrage. Countless condemnations filled social media under the hashtag Hatun Tugluk is mother to all of us, with a common message of indignation at polarizing politics.

The president's office  which is often the focal point of the anger  also issued a condemnation. The statement didn't come directly from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan but his spokesman, Ibrahim Kalin, who said he was condemning the incident in the clearest terms on behalf of the presidency.

The condemnation, however, is unlikely to have appeased either the HDP or the Kurds in general.

Ahmet Turk, a veteran of the Kurdish struggle in Turkey, who has had several stints in jail, the most recent of which ended in February, said, Ive been doing politics in this country for 50 years. I have been through a lot of pain and I have witnessed a lot of pain, but never before have I seen something like this.

The flurry of condemnations is not convincing after so much polarizing rhetoric and does not absolve the government from responsibility, Sancar said.

Remarkably, the official condemnations tended to emphasize the religious aspect of the incident. Kalin, for instance, said the attack on the funeral does not comport with our faith, culture and civilization values, while government spokesman Bekir Bozdag said it went against our religion and traditions.

This, however, does not answer the question the Kurds are now asking: If Kurdish mothers cannot be buried in this soil, how are Kurdish children going to live on these lands?
The Mission House, a Montgomery special events facility, is open at 461 S. Court St.

The restored 3,000-square-foot mansion is available for business and professional meeting space, non-profit fundraisers, networking events, wedding receptions, celebrations, community/neighborhood functions and other private events.

The Montgomery Chamber of Commerce will hold ribbon-cutting ceremony there at 11 a.m. Tuesday.

Keary L. Foster, the owner, purchased the Mission House last May. Renovations took about six months. Foster is also president and CEO of Wealth Management Partners, LLC.

The Mission House hosted a Christmas gathering last December and a view party for the Mayweather-McGregor fight on the house's three large-screen TVs. The house can also project TV outside. Foster is planning a Halloween/costume festival in October.

There are four separate meeting rooms, a large patio with a deck and front porch. There are also two smaller meeting rooms. The Mission House has four fireplaces, a large kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave (no stove), ice machine, prep tables and a sink. There is a bar/service area and a cooler. Wi-Fi is provided.

Charges start at $150 per hour for a meeting room.

"I'm looking forward to people stopping by Tuesday and seeing what we have done with the Mission House," Foster said. "It's beautiful and it's the ideal place to hold your special event."
(Chris Stapleton Facebook photo)

Chris Stapleton played to a packed house on Saturday, Sept. 16, at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre in Pelham. About 10,500 people were on hand to greet the country star on this stop of his "All American Road Show" tour. The much-anticipated concert had been rescheduled from its original date of June 10 after Stapleton injured his finger.

The Grammy-winning artist is touring on his second studio album, "From a Room: Volume 1," and faced his largest crowd in the Birmingham area to date. Stapleton has performed here before, quickly selling out the main stage at Iron City in January 2016, drawing about 1,300 people. He also played at Iron City in June 2015, and opened for Little Big Town at the Alabama Theatre in March 2015, just before his fame hit.

The Oak Mountain show reflected a big step up, both in the size of the venue and in Stapleton's growing fame. Here's a look at what fans saw at the event, via photos and videos posted on Instagram. Mary Colurso | MColurso@AL.com

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Facebook post from Stapleton before the show.

Don't Edit

More music coverage in Alabama:

50 must-see concerts in Alabama this fall

The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Elvis: For Alabama radio pioneer Dan Brennan, life was a Shower of Stars

Let's explore a treasure trove of 1970s memorabilia from Alabama concert promoter

50 concerts in the Birmingham Hall of Fame

30 concerts in the Birmingham Hall of Shame

31 of the greatest concerts in Alabama music history

Your favorite concerts in Alabama music history

Your picks for the worst concerts in Alabama

Don't Edit
A Calhoun County deputy shot and killed a man this morning in Piedmont in what the sheriff said was a scuffle over the deputy's weapon.

Sheriff Matthew Wade during an afternoon news conference said the incident happened about 4:40 a.m. on Helen Drive in Piedmont. A man in his early 30s was at a residence when the deputy responded on a "suspicious person" call.

Wade said the deputy, who has been on the force for three years, had already had an encounter with the man a week earlier.

"He'd dealt with him previously," he said. "He was not from this county. It's my understanding that the man told the deputy he was undergoing some kind of psychiatric treatment."

After a routine check, the deputy learned the man had a felony warrant issued out of Pell City. Then an altercation ensued. Wade said the man obtained a weapon from the deputy, but did not say what weapon it was other than that it was not the deputy's sidearm.

"The deputy went way out of his way to deescalate the situation," Wade said.

During the altercation, the deputy used his sidearm and fired on the man, who was later taken to Regional Medical Center-Jacksonville where he died. His identity has not been released pending notification of his family. The deputy was not seriously injured.

Wade said the incident is under investigation by the Etowah and Cherokee County sheriff's departments, as well as the Jacksonville State University Center for Applied Forensics. Wade said Calhoun County deputies do not have body cameras, but dash cameras. However, the deputy's audio recorder caught the incident, and audio verifies his version of the event, he said.

The man had been living at the Helen Drive residence with its owner for about 10 days after his car broke down, Wade said. It is unclear if the dispatch call that summoned the deputy was in regards to the man or made by him.

"It's just a tragic choice by the suspect," Wade said. "This is never something we're happy to have happen. We have nothing to indicate the deputy was not following standard procedures. He begged and pleaded for another option."
Two men - both Tiger Transit employees - are charged in the sexual assault of an 18-year-old Auburn University student.

The Auburn Police Department on Monday announced the arrests of James Don Johnson, 32, and Tony Martin Patillo, 51. Both men are charged with first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy in connection with the attack that happened Friday night on the campus shuttle.

Authorities provided this account of what happened: About 11:50 p.m. Friday, Auburn police received a report of a man exposing himself while standing over a female in the 700 block of Aspen Heights Lane in Auburn. Officers arrived on the scene and found Patillo near the roadway and detained him.

They weren't, however, able to find the female at the time of the initial report. Patillo was arrested on four counts of public lewdness and taken to the Lee County Jail.

As the investigation continued, detectives determined that the female, who "appeared to be incapacitated," got on the bus near Magnolia Avenue in Auburn. While on the bus, she was sexually assaulted by Patillo, an employee of First Transit which operates Tiger Transit.

Further investigation showed that Johnson, who was driving the bus, engaged in actions to perpetuate the crime while Patillo was in the rear of the bus raping the victim. Patillo later exited the bus near Aspen Heights Lane with the female victim, and it was at that point he was seen by passersby standing over her.

Police said they were ultimately able to identify, locate and interview the 18-year-old victim.

Patillo, who lives in Columbus, Ga., is being held in the Lee County Jail on $127,000 bond. Johnson, of Auburn, was arrested at his home and is held in the Lee County Jail on $125,000 bond.

Authorities said the attack happened on the Tiger Ten shuttle, which is an extension of Tiger Transit and operates between 10:30 p.m. and 3:30 a.m. on the weekends.

Auburn University released this statement on Monday: "Two arrests have been made resulting from a sexual assault that occurred early Saturday morning. Auburn University is working with the City of Auburn Police Division in their investigation.

Our top concern is the well-being of the victim, and we cannot stress in strong enough terms our shock and distress over this despicable act. We immediately provided support and all available resources to the victim and continue to do so.

The suspects were employees of First Transit, the contractor hired by Auburn to provide late night transportation service for students. The contractor is required to conduct thorough background checks on its employees and has terminated the employment of both suspects. We are evaluating the future of the university's relationship with First Transit.

As this is the subject of an ongoing investigation, further questions should be directed to the Auburn Police Division."

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at 334-501-3140 or the 24-hour non-emergency number at 334-501-3100. Anonymous tips can also be made at 334-246-1391.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama donated $1.5 million to the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health to establish an endowed chair in health economics.

"This gift is timely given the changes in our country's health care industry," Max Michael III, dean of the UAB School of Public Health said in a press release. "We will use the funds to attract a thought leader in health economics to further the development of our students and ongoing research within health economics."

The goal of the position, which is the School of Public Health's first endowed chair, is to explore and develop practical solutions to health problems; facilitate the translation of solutions into practice, both public health and health care; and strategizing to improve health and wellbeing of all residents in the state of Alabama.

"Our mission remains to provide Alabamians access to quality health care at the most affordable price possible," said Terry Kellogg, president and chief executive officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. "Making this endowment available to the UAB School of Public Health validates this commitment. We know it takes all participants to make an effective impact on public health, and we are making this commitment to strengthen our longstanding partnership with one of the premier schools in the country. We are confident this endowment will positively impact the health and wellness of Alabamians."

Endowed funds equip universities with a critical advantage in recruiting academic leaders at the highest levels, providing tuition for deserving and meritorious students, and responding to the changing needs of society, according to UAB.
The popular character in the hit podcast "S-Town" had one of his pending criminal cases dismissed today.

Joseph Tyler Goodson, 26, was charged with second-degree domestic violence, first-degree burglary, and endangering the welfare of a child in the Bessemer division of Jefferson County. His trial was scheduled to begin today, but the victim in the case did not want to go forward with prosecuting Goodson.

Prosecutors made a motion to drop the charges, and Jefferson County Circuit Judge David Carpenter dismissed all charges without prejudice-- meaning they could be brought back if new evidence is discovered, or if the victim decides to come forward.

Goodson was indicted in the Bessemer case in February. According to the indictment, Goodson kicked in the front door of his estranged girlfriend's home in 2015, "waving a gun, threatening to kill the adults and abducting his minor child."

Earlier this year, Goodson was featured in the "S-Town" podcast from the makers of "Serial" and "This American Life." The podcast was downloaded 40 million times worldwide within a month of its March release, and focused on the small town of Woodstock and a resident named John B. McLemore. Podcast host Brian Reed's investigation of a murder in the town takes a turn when McLemore dies instead, and the podcast's website describes the story as a "search for the truth" that leads "to a nasty feud, a hunt for hidden treasure, and an unearthing of the mysteries of one man's life."

McLemore and Goodson were close friends and are described in the podcast as having a father-son relationship.

Goodson is also facing 20 charges in Bibb County, on incidents relating to events described in the podcast: One count of theft of property first degree; four counts of first-degree theft of a motor vehicle; three counts of second-degree possession of forged instrument; one count of second-degree criminal trespassing; two counts of third-degree burglary; one count of second-degree theft of property; and eight counts of second-degree criminal trespass.

The Bibb County trial is set for the week of October 16.There is also a pre-trial hearing scheduled for Tuesday in that case to discuss several pending motions, including a motion for a change of venue.

The theft case is based on a theory that Goodson stole property from McLemore's land after McLemore's death in 2015. On the podcast, Goodson said McLemore had promised him his land and custody of his mother, Mary Grace, in case something happened to him. Although he alluded to wanting to leave something for Goodson and his family, McLemore never left a will and his estate went to his mother.

Mary Grace was eventually placed in the care of McLemore's cousin, Reta Lawrence, and Goodson was warned by law enforcement not to go back onto the property without permission. However, Goodson went back to the property numerous times and took several items he claimed were his.

Attorneys for both parties did not respond for a request to comment by the time of publication. This post will be updated.
A Sylacauga man was killed early Monday morning on U.S. 280 in Shelby County.

Shelby County Coroner Lina Evans identified the victim as Robert Lee Rumsey IV. He was 41.

The accident happened about 6:30 a.m. on U.S. 280 at Alabama 55 in Sterrett. Authorities said Rumsey was driving toward Birmingham when he crashed into the back of a tractor-trailer truck headed in the same direction.

Evans said this morning's foggy conditions might have contributed to the deadly accident. It remains under investigation by the Alabama State Troopers.
U.S. Sen. Luther Strange has made significant cuts into Roy Moore's lead in a Republican primary runoff poll but still has a lot of ground to make up over the next eight days.

In a poll released Monday by Louisiana-based JMC Analytics and Polling, Alabama's former chief justice holds an eight-point lead over Strange.

The same polling firm last month had Moore with a 19-point lead.

The GOP runoff is Sept. 26.

Moore has led in all eight post-primary polls - though some polls have Strange within the margin of error, essentially making the race a statistical tie in those cases.

The latest polling data also comes as President Trump plans to visit Huntsville to headline a rally for Strange, whom he endorsed last month.

The latest poll was conducted Sept. 16-17 and has a margin of error of 4.4 percent. There were 500 participants in a landline sample of likely runoff voters.

Beyond having an overall lead in the race, according to the poll, the survey also found that the 13 percent of participants who said they were undecided were leaning toward Moore 50 percent to 42 percent with another 8 percent declining to specify a candidate.

And while Trump's comments on Strange at the Huntsville rally will be heard statewide, the president will be stumping in a part of the state where Moore is polling the strongest. The former justice received 51 percent of support from participants in the Huntsville market - his highest percentage of any media market in the state. Strange, meanwhile, is polling at just 36 percent in the Huntsville market.

U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks of Huntsville, who finished third in the primary with 20 percent of the vote, endorsed Moore on Saturday.

Still, the poll indicates Moore has support across the state. He leads Strange in every market except the senator's hometown of Birmingham - where the race is tied at 45 percent each.

Moore is polling at no worse than 45 percent in any media market, according to the JMC poll.

A recap of the polls since the Aug. 15 primary:

Aug 21:

Aug. 23:

Aug. 24:

Aug. 29:

Sept. 6:

Sept. 11:

Sept. 14:

Sept. 18 GOP Senate runoff poll by pgattis7719 on Scribd
One man was killed and a man and a woman were injured during a possible domestic dispute in Athens, according to local police.

Police arrived on the scene of the shooting at 3:49 a.m., according to a press release. They found one man dead from a gunshot wound in the street in the 2400 block of McClung Lane.

Officers also located a woman with a gunshot wound to her leg on the porch of a home. Another man had been shot in the arm. Both were transported to Athens Limestone Hospital, where they were treated and released.

Police are still investigating the shooting, but believe it began when the injured woman's ex-boyfriend confronted her and the injured man. An argument erupted and the ex-boyfriend allegedly began shooting.

The man who was injured entered his home and grabbed a pistol, according to a press release issued by police. He shot the ex-boyfriend, who died at the scene.

Family members of the victim have not yet been notified of his death, so police have not released his name. No one has been arrested in the shooting, according to Athens Police Chief Floyd Johnson.
Could a shortage of next-generation engines cause grief for Airbus in Mobile, as it already has in Europe?

The answer appears to be that in the short term it won't, and in a best-case scenario it never will. But right now there's no guarantee of a best-case scenario.

At its Final Assembly Line in Mobile, Airbus builds and delivers several models from its A320 single-aisle jetliner family. Globally, customers can order their jets with Conventional Engine Options (ceo) or with advanced models the company calls New Engine Options (neo). Compared to an A320ceo, an A320neo should have better fuel efficiency and other gains.

There are two neo engine suppliers bringing complex new powerplants to the market. Both have had some introductory issues, and in one case - Pratt & Whitney's PW1000 family - those issues have been troublesome enough to slow production to the point where it has caused grief for Airbus over the course of the last year. In Europe, at least, the company has expressed frustration about having to delay deliveries.

In April, Airbus Chief Financial Officer Harald Wilhelm sounded off, saying that Pratt & Whitney's "actually demonstrated performance right now is not satisfactory." The company seemed to be "going in the right direction" on fixes, but in the meantime production delays on engines were affecting deliveries and profits at Airbus. In May, the CEO of Air Lease Corporation said his company was "very disturbed" about Airbus delivery delays.

A few years into the future, people may look back and decide the ruckus was no big deal. The Pratt & Whitney engines are radical in that they put a gearbox between the big fan on the front of the engine and the smaller compressor fans at its heart, so they can spin at different speeds. That was a huge technological challenge - the manufacturer says it took 20 years and a $10 billion investment to pull off - but it pays off in significantly better economy and greatly reduced noise. Those are very desirable qualities, as illustrated by Pratt & Whitney's claim to have 8,000 engine orders in hand.

No one seems to be saying the new technology is the problem. Instead there have been issues with bearing seals, the fine details of combustion chambers, and the challenge of manufacturing enough of certain high-tech fan blades. The production delays are a real problem, but a writer at MRO-network.com, a site serving the aerospace maintenance and repair industry said the knowledge gained in fixing the problems will pay off in the long run. It's "a real-world shakedown" of a new design with a long life ahead of it, the article suggests.

But what does it all mean for Mobile? Potentially a lot, in a worst-case scenario.

The Mobile FAL hasn't built its first neo jet yet. It's still ramping up to meet its production goal of four jets per month, a target that company leaders plan to hit later this year. (Airbus announced Monday that a Mobile-built A321 delivered on Friday brought the total number of Airbus aircraft in service in North America to a new high of 1,500.)

Kristi Tucker, director of communications for Airbus Americas, said the Mobile FAL will receive components for its first neo jet toward the end of 2017, meaning it will be delivered sometime in 2018. From there, the FAL will begin building more and more A321neos and A320neos.

So far there's no sign of a problem, and there's time for Pratt & Whitney to get up to speed. But there's no question the pressure is on.

"We've said since the beginning we'll eventually go all neo," Tucker said.

Another place where the potential problem could hit home is across Mobile Bay in Foley, Ala. Pratt & Whitney is a division of United Technologies. In Foley another division, UTC Aerospace Systems, has been building up all the engines used at the Mobile FAL. As engines come in, Foley workers add inlet cowls, fan cowls and thrust reversers - "everything that wraps around the engine," as one executive put it - and then hands them over to Airbus.

So far it has just been handling ceo engines for Airbus. But company officials recently dedicated a major new expansion designed specifically to build up neo engines. They've projected it will add 260 new jobs to the facility.

"There's a huge ramp rate coming for the A320neo program," Mike Grondalski, vice president for UTC Aerospace Systems' aerostructures division, said in August. "There will be a lot of work coming very quickly."

That's assuming the engines themselves come in quickly. But the expansion wasn't expected to be fully operational until year's end - so, just as at the Mobile FAL, there's no immediate demand for neo engines. The shortage hasn't hit home, and maybe it never will.

Pratt and Whitney has been developing fixes for the technical problems, and the company recently celebrated an expansion at a factory in Lansing, Mich., that should triple production there of the scarce fan blades.

Asked for comment, UTC referred to an address made last week by United Technologies Chief Financial Officer Akhil Johri at a Morgan Stanley investors conference.

Johri acknowledged that there was concern about Pratt & Whitney, but said the company "will deliver on its commit of 350 to 400 engines this year."

There were known technical issues, but the company was "on track" to resolve them, Johri said.

"We do know, and we acknowledge and understand fully, that there are more aircraft on ground than we would like, than Airbus would like, than the airline customers would like," he said. But he said that Pratt and Whitney's ability to deliver its quota of engines was "not in doubt."

Meanwhile Pratt & Whitney hasn't had a monopoly on neo engine problems. The other neo manufacturer is CFM, and it's also had a challenge or two with its LEAP-1 engines - though those problems haven't been bad enough to impact the production schedule.

CFM is a partnership between General Electric and the France-based aerospace company Safran. And Mobile officials recently announced with great fanfare that Safran will be establishing a presence at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley.

A press release from Safran leaves little doubt about where all this is heading. Safran, a partner in CFM, builds up LEAP-1 engines in Colomiers, France, to serve Airbus production lines in Toulouse. It has a new German facility doing the same thing for Airbus' FAL in Hamburg. So naturally it plans to do the same "on Alabama's Gulf Coast, home to the newest final assembly factory for the A320 jetliner production line."

That same Safran release describes Airbus' switch to neo engines for its A320 family as "one of the fastest production ramp-ups in aviation history."

With that as context, maybe a few bumps in the process are only to be expected. And the situation illustrates something else as well: Mobile isn't just a place that happens to have an Airbus factory. It's a city, and a region, where the multi-billion-dollar ups and downs of the global aerospace industry can have very real effects.
Some 19 million cubic metres of wastewater from Israeli settlements flows through the occupied West Bank each year.

Salfit, occupied West Bank  Jamal Hammad remembers when the al-Matwa spring in Salfit city was a popular destination for locals. Several decades ago, the area would often be crowded with Palestinians hiking in the valley and families picnicking alongside the clear, flowing stream.

Now, however, the sewage flowing through the spring, the rancid smell that engulfs the valley and the mosquitoes swarming the area have left the valley largely deserted.

All of this waste is coming from Israels settlements; mostly from the Ariel settlement, Hammad told Al Jazeera on his modest farm adjacent to the spring. We are very worried about what long-term effects this pollution will have on our future.

The issue of waste management has been ongoing for decades in the occupied West Bank. Last year, some 83 million cubic metres of wastewater flowed throughout the occupied West Bank, of which approximately 19 million cubic meters originated from Israeli settlements built on Palestinian territory in violation of international law, according to the Knesset Research Institute.

Alon Cohen-Lifshitz, a researcher for the Israeli NGO Bimkom, tells Al Jazeera that many Israeli settlements do not have proper waste treatment facilities. About 12 percent of settlement sewage remains untreated and travels down into streams near Palestinian communities.

This is caused by the fact that Israel declared uncultivated land in the West Bank, which is usually on the hilltops, as state land,' during the Israeli military takeover of the territory in 1967, Lifshitz explained. Taking over the hilltops also made it so Israel could easily control the area.

These areas are where Israeli settlements were subsequently constructed.

POLLUTION IN THE WEST BANK Caused by Israeli dumpsites, settler waste, and Israeli restrictions on Palestinians preventing them from developing waste treatment facilities

More than half of all waste produced by Palestinians in the West Bank remains untreated

Palestinian waste is the major contributor to pollution in the territory, due to Israeli restrictions

Israel has exclusive control over water resources and waste management in the West Bank based on the Oslo Accords

Between 1995 and 2008, a little more than half of Palestinian waste treatment projects were approved by Israel, compared with 96 percent of projects in settlements

Israel routinely requires that new Palestinian treatment facilities manage both waste from Palestinian communities and Israeli settlements, leading the PA to reject these proposals.

Palestinian communities are severely affected by settler-produced waste owing to many of their villages having been forced to move to lower agricultural lands after Israels occupation of the Palestinian territory. Therefore, the sewage issue is a side effect of Israels matrix of control in the West Bank, Lifshitz added.

In the case of Salfit, treatment plants in Ariel  one of Israels largest settlements in the West Bank with a population close to 19,000  Ariel West, and the Barkan settlements routinely break down or overflow, causing raw sewage to flood into the al-Matwa valley and spring, exacerbating already existing waste issues in Palestinian communities.

The Salfit local council has been forced to build four-metre high walls along the al-Matwa spring to protect the citys central water-pumping station from being flooded by the wastewater, according to a report by BTselem.

Up until a few years ago, local Palestinian waste from Salfit city had also contributed to the pollution in the spring. However, the Salfit municipality has since constructed an underground sewage system to transport local waste from the area, releasing it further down the valley.

Palestinians in Salfit have been attempting to establish a waste treatment facility for years; but, like scores of other Palestinian communities, they have been prevented from doing so by Israeli restrictions on Palestinian development in the majority of the West Bank.

The smell keeps us awake at night

I remember we used to be able to farm in this area, without even using pesticides, Hammad told Al Jazeera, as he looked down at streams of liquid faeces floating in the water. Now if we dont use pesticides to ward off the bugs and mosquitoes in the area, our crops wont survive.

Even after using pesticides on the crops, Hammad says that both the quality and quantity of his fruits and vegetables have decreased since the sewage began affecting the farms. Many Palestinians have also stopped eating local produce, in fear that it has been contaminated by wastewater.

Across the street from Hammads farm, local resident Hammad Azazma sits on a blanket outside a makeshift structure in his small Bedouin community, located right beside the al-Matwa spring. He tells Al Jazeera that some 50 to 60 of his sheep die each year from drinking the polluted water.

My children often become sick. They suffer from fevers and develop skin rashes. Even if you dont drink the water, the bacteria still gets dragged around the area from your shoes or the bugs, he said.

And the smell! he bellowed, wincing his face in disgust. It keeps us awake at night.

BTselems report noted that the pollution had caused the local extinction of several species that had once inhabited the area, including deer, rabbits, and foxes. Boars are now the only animals left alive there, according to the group.

Both Hammad and Azazma expressed fear for what the long-term effects could be on the communities and land. But no one cares about us, Hammad told Al Jazeera, shaking his head in frustration. This situation will become worse and worse, and no one knows what will happen to the residents here.

Israeli settlers, however, have largely been unaffected by the pollution for the past several decades, since all settlements are connected to Israels water supply, and untreated waste is typically diverted down to Palestinian communities.

We never get used to the smell of chemicals

Since the 1980s, the Bedouin village of Wadi Abu Hindi, located in a valley squeezed between Israels Maale Adumim and Qedar settlements near the town of al-Eizariya, east of Jerusalem, has been affected by a massive nearby dumping ground for Israeli rubbish.

The Abu Dis dumpsite was the largest landfill in the occupied West Bank and has wreaked havoc on the lives of neighbouring Bedouin communities in the Jerusalem district for decades.

Some two years ago Israel closed the dumpsite  although Lifshitz noted that it is still periodically used  and poured dirt over the massive mound of rubbish.

Khalil Hammad, a resident of Wadi Abu Hindi, tells Al Jazeera the Bedouin there have continued to face the same issues, albeit to a lesser degree, and that the dumpsite has made the residents lives miserable.

He says that up until a few years ago the village was covered in plastic bags, and some 200 sheep would die each year from choking on the bags or drinking water from the liquid waste pool.

The worst issue remains the constant smell of chemicals. Its all day long, and we never get used to it, he said, adding that at night the residents can sometimes see fire near the landfill from the large concentration of methane exuding from the waste pool.

Khalil himself has been treated for respiratory illnesses a number of times owing to the pollution.

According to Lifshitz, Israels closure of the dumpsite had little to do with the severe health and environmental impacts on neighbouring Palestinian communities but instead was motivated by a wish to advance a highly controversial forced relocation plan for Bedouin communities.

We wont be displaced again

The main reason they closed the dump site was so they could transfer the Bedouin there, Lifshitz said bluntly. Israel has targeted the Jahalin Bedouin tribe  who became refugees for the first time during the establishment of Israel in 1948  residing near Maale Adumim for forcible transfer, as their presence impedes the planned expansion of the mega-settlement.

The Bedouin in the nearby al-Jabel village were forcibly relocated near the dumpsite after Israel demolished their homes and evicted them from a rural area near Maale Adumim in the 1990s, during an earlier expansion of the settlement.

According to Lifshitz, Israel now has a new plan for the community, who once again have found themselves in the way of Israels relentless settlement expansions: forcibly transfer their population to the Abu Dis dumpsite. The relocation plan is expected to affect some 20 Bedouin communities.

Lifshitz, reading from a Hebrew-language document, tells Al Jazeera that as recently as May this year, an official Israeli committee discussed ways of rehabilitating the area to prepare for the population transfers. The most feasible plan for the committee was spreading the rubbish towards the other side of the valley to level out the rubbish and land.

Khalil says that the Wadi Abu Hindi community has also been approached by Israels civil administration about moving residents to the dumpsite. They tell us they will dump more dirt on the rubbish, and that it would be a nice place for us to live in the future, he said incredulously.

In addition to the landfill and fears of a forced eviction from Wadi Abu Hindi, the residents also have to contend with Israelis from the Qedar settlement releasing their pool water into the below valley where the Bedouin reside.

They do this every few days, Khalil told Al Jazeera. We try to prevent our sheep from drinking the water. But we cant always stop them. The chlorine makes them sick, and sometimes they die from it. The pool water also destroys grass in the area that the community depends on for grazing their sheep, Khalil added.

According to Khalil, settlers releasing their waste on the community is yet another one of Israels tactics to force them out of the area. But we wont leave, he said.

We were already displaced once, and we wont be displaced again.
I dont want to [return], we will never be safe in Myanmar, we need to do the best we can here in Bangladesh.

Arba Khatun, 50, comes from Rakhine State, Myanmar, which she fled a few weeks ago.

My name is Arba Khatun and I am 50 years old. Before the crisis, we lived a fairly good life: We had domestic animals, we had a farm, we cultivated lots of different crops like rice and coconuts. Somehow, we managed. My husband died 15 years ago, so I lived with my son and his family. When I was younger, I used to love working on the farm, but now I am old, so my son does most of the work.

I can not remember what day it was, but I had just woken up and was washing my face when the military came to our farm and stole our animals. That is when they fired their gun and a bullet hit my stomach. Luckily, it did not go too deep, but it was very painful and bleeding a lot so my son took me to a nearby doctor.

When we returned the whole village had burned to the ground. My son carried me to the mountain, we found his family.

We slept there for three days, then he carried me to Bangladesh. We could not bring anything with us because my son was carrying me and his wife was carrying their two children  it was a difficult journey and it took us 12 days. We heard there were some problems at the border, but we crossed easily.

I am happy to be in Bangladesh because we are safe here. My wound is healing so I am walking around a lot more, too. But we could not bring any food with us and we have nothing to eat  we have not received any support, we are so hungry.

My son would ask the world to help us get our country back, but I dont want to go there again, we will never be safe in Myanmar, we need to do the best we can here in Bangladesh.

*As told to Katie Arnold in Kutupalong new shelter camp near Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh.

*This interview has been edited for clarity.

Read this related article to find out more about Myanmars Rohingya

The plight of Myanmars Rohingya

More than 400,000 Rohingya, mainly women and children, have fled to Bangladesh in the recent weeks as a result of indiscriminate violence against civilian populations carried out by the Myanmar army.

The UN and other human rights organisations have warned that the mass exodus following killings, rapes, and burned villages are signs of ethnic cleansing, pleading for the international community to pressure Aung San Suu Kyi and her government to end the violence.

The situation seems a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, UN human rights chief Zeid Raad al-Hussein said on Monday, September 11.
Champlain, New York  The taxis come one after another, day and night, down a lonely stretch in rural upstate New York called Roxham Road.

They drive past fields of horses grazing in front of broken-down barns and trailers with no trespassing signs on the doors and rusted trucks on the lawns, before coming to a stop in front of a small ditch that marks an unofficial border crossing between the United States and the Canadian province of Quebec.

Entire families, laden with suitcases, emerge from the taxis. Other times it is single men with backpacks or mothers carrying their infant children.

Stop. This is an illegal crossing. If you cross here you will be arrested, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer warned as Ejike Onukogu and his family approached the ditch. Onukogu had travelled to the border with his wife and young daughter.

They are part of an influx of asylum seekers from around the world crossing illegally into Canada in recent months, driven by fear of persecution in their home countries and now deportation from the US, where many had sought shelter.

Onukogu and his family are Nigerians from the southeastern state of Imo. He says they fled Nigeria after they were attacked by a criminal gang who tried to abduct his daughter. They sought to kill us for my daughter; they wanted to use her for rituals. When we resisted them, they sought to take our lives, and we had to run away. They were following us everywhere.

Onukogu says they managed to reach the US on visitor visas with the help of friends and family. But fearful of applying for asylum in the current political climate and being deported when their visas expired, they left for the Canadian border shortly after arrival.

I believe that the Canadians are good people and they will give us protection.

Seeking asylum in Canada

The rate of asylum seekers illegally crossing the border increased sharply during the initial days of the Trump presidency, with 678 entering Canada in February. That number has grown steadily with 3,135 asylum seekers coming in July and more than 3,700 crossing into the province of Quebec alone in the first two weeks of August, RCMP Constable Erique Gasse told Al Jazeera.

In total, more than 11,200 asylum seekers have crossed illegally into Canada so far this year according to the latest statistics from the office of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports and latest figures from RCMP available up until August 15th. In comparison, 2,464 asylum seekers crossed unofficial borders into Canada in all of 2016.

Asylum seekers choose Roxham Road because of the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), a 2002 treaty with the US that bars them from entry if they make an asylum claim at an official border point. The treaty states that both countries are safe places for refugees and claims must only be made in the first country of entry.

However, if an asylum seeker gets into Canada through an unofficial crossing, they are not subjected to the STCA. They have the right to make a refugee claim and remain in Canada while the Immigration and Refugee Board decides their case in a process that can take years.

The secretary-general of Amnesty International Canada, Alex Neve, called for an end to the STCA in June. We are shocked and disappointed that the Canadian government continues to hold to the view that the US is a safe partner for refugee protection, he said in an official press release. That was not true before President Trump took office and it has become abundantly clear that his presidency is characterised by utter disregard for the safety and rights of refugees and migrants.

Upon crossing the border, the asylum seekers are arrested, searched and given a background check before being allowed to make an asylum claim in a process that has become routine. Officers at Roxham Road help the new arrivals carry their luggage across the ditch and offer them chairs.

US Customs and Border Protection officers visit the crossing occasionally but do not intervene since the asylum seekers are not breaking American laws.

Onukogu and his family hesitated on the US side of the border, unsure what to do after being told to stop. His wife fell to her knees and pleaded with the RCMP officer. Realising their confusion, the officer eventually coaxed them over saying: That is the United States, this is Canada. Why dont you come over here and you can be arrested?

Read more about how Donald Trumps immigration policy is impacting lives in this open letter from an American Dreamer

Welcome to Canada?

On January 28, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted a tweet that was widely celebrated as a rebuttal of Donald Trumps executive order signed the day before banning citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the US. To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada.

However, critics say it had the unintended consequence of attracting asylum seekers and wrongly suggesting that Canadas doors were wide open.

As the number of refugee claimants crossing the border increased, Trudeau and other officials have sought to clarify the asylum process and dissuade people from crossing illegally. Canadians can be confident in our immigration system  people who cross the border in an irregular way will not be at an advantage, the prime minister tweeted in August.

Dominique McNeely, a spokesperson for the Canada Border Services Agency, explained that entering illegally between ports of entry is not a free ticket into Canada There are specific requirements to be considered a refugee. and if you do not meet them, you will be asked to leave or be removed.

While officials are trying to discourage asylum seekers from entering Canada illegally, they have taken steps to better facilitate those crossing the border and provide for them once theyve arrived.

On the Canadian side of Roxham Road, what was once just an open area beside a small signpost that marks the border has become a semi-permanent installation with a freshly paved car park, newly installed lights and security cameras, tents, trailers and portable toilets.

Canada does not have much experience with mass illegal migration, isolated as it is by oceans on three sides, and the continued crossings and provision of services for asylum seekers has been divisive in nearby communities.

Roxham Road leads into Hemmingford, Quebec, a small border town of approximately 800 people surrounded by orchards and vineyards. A local resident, who did not want to be named, came to the border to monitor the situation and take photos on his phone.

The people who live here find this situation unbearable, he said. For me its simple. Id put a fence all along the border. They dont need a fence with Mexico; they need it here.

The Canadian military has erected tent cities along the border in Quebec and the city of Cornwall, Ontario, to house hundreds of refugee claimants before they can find themselves more permanent accommodation.

But, not everyone in the neighbourhood feels threatened by the new arrivals. Suzanne, 51, is a resident of Cornwall. Some people think we shouldnt help them, but thats not a moral way to think. This is Canada. Bring them in and treat them right, she said.

Read this related article to learn more about the lives interrupted by Donald Trumps immigration policies

I feel for the people

Al Jazeera witnessed 64 asylum seekers cross the border at Roxham Road during a three-hour period one afternoon in late August.

Taxi drivers returned multiple times to the border throughout the day, bringing different people from the nearest bus station 36 kilometres away in Plattsburgh, New York. Asylum seekers said they typically charge between $50-$75 per person for the trip.

Ron, 43, is a Plattsburgh-based taxi driver who says that he drives people to the border four or five times every day.

I feel for the people. They tell me about all kinds of killing and kidnappings, he said. I see the violence over there on the news and in movies, but when you actually talk to people, and they tell you whats happened to them it hurts a hell of a lot more Its bad. These people dont deserve to be kicked out.

The ground along the US side of Roxham Road is littered with scraps asylum seekers have emptied from their pockets before walking into the custody of Canadian authorities.

Some of the debris gives clues as to how far people have come to reach this point  a business card for a taxi service at New Yorks JFK airport, baggage tags from different airlines.

Al Jazeera found a handwritten note in Spanish that had been torn apart. The writer described being assaulted in El Salvador by members of MS-13, a notorious gang active in the US and across Central America. The rest of the note contained simple lines to tell authorities: I read online that Canada is a place that can help me I dont know anyone.

Fear of deportation from the US

In recent weeks, the overwhelming majority of people crossing the Canadian border to claim asylum have been from Haiti, the RCMP says.

Haitian asylum seekers living in the US were granted Temporary Protected Status in the US following Haitis devastating 2010 earthquake. However, the Trump administration is not expected to extend that status when it expires in January 2018, leaving tens of thousands open to deportation.

Chelsie David says she fled threats of violence in Haiti and had been living in Cape Cod, Massachusetts for two years. But fearful of being deported, she brought her children to the Roxham Road crossing, hoping to claim asylum and join her sister in Montreal.

Were worried about being sent back to Haiti. We cant go back. There are people there who want to kill us. We just want to go to Canada to be safe and have a better life, she said.

Messages circulating among the Haitian community on social media have reportedly suggested that Canada will welcome them without question, but many dont realise that their protected status has already been lifted in Canada and some who made asylum claims in 2016 have been deported, according to Janet Dench, executive director of the Canadian Council for Refugees.

People may make dramatic decisions in their lives based on false information about what awaits them in Canada, Dench told Al Jazeera.

If you dont have a personalised risk and your refugee claim is rejected you could actually end up being deported from Canada faster than from the US. Thats the brutal reality, unfortunately.

Despite that risk, the taxis keep coming down Roxham Road, bringing more and more desperate people to the frontier of an unfamiliar country and an uncertain future.
The demise of the infamous UK-based PR agency came at the hands of the free market it dutifully served.

Bell Pottinger has fallen. The sleaziest of sleazy lobbyist firms has finally gone a dirty trick too far. Earlier this month, the infamous London-based firm, set up by a right-wing confidant to Margaret Thatcher and arch-media manipulator, was finally put into administration. Their offence was a social media campaign secretly stoking racial tension in South Africa, which has seen clients and investors desert them.

Bell Pottinger was both the jewel and embarrassment of the British public relations industry, with a reputation for going where other agencies would fear to tread.





Its key founder was Tim Bell, who, far from an amoral, apolitical money-grabber as he is too often presented, shared Thatchers manic obsession with neoliberalism as a tool for social justice. This world view was ever-present in the firm, which also appears to have expelled employees for professing even moderately left-wing, anti-market views. Bells favoured philosopher was the right-wing, free-market radical Ayn Rand, and he frequently labelled journalists he didnt like as commies or pinkos. Both he and Thatcher thought the free market sacred enough to warrant attacking those who threatened it  even if this meant paradoxically supporting apartheid or murderous autocrats.

Some of Bell Pottingers clients were relatively mundane; supermarkets, banks, luxury brands, mobile phone companies, fast-food chains. Others were more striking  Augusto Pinochet fighting extradition for mass murder, the Bahraini regime as they brutalised protesters in 2011, Viktor Lukashenko of dictatorial fame in Belarus, and Saudi Arabia  whose corrupt princes wanted a fraud investigation dropped by the British government. Although their trade was lucrative, as James Henderson, the now resigned CEO said of their founder Lord Bell, We are all supportive of Tim and his politics.

READ MORE: Bell Pottinger out of South Africa PR trade body over racism row

This blinkered worship of capitalism, enhanced by profit motives, soon led Bell Pottinger into dangerous territory. Their methods ranged from aggressively editing Wikipedia pages, hijacking popular petitions on behalf of big business, making grotesque personal attacks against unfriendly journalists, and by selling influence on the British government to anyone who could afford it  usually corporations but also dictators. They called their services the dark arts.

It also led them to defend odd people. When previously asked why he worked for the Chilean dictator Pinochet, Lord Bell of Belgravia simply replied Business  Im not a priest. He claimed he lived in a commercial world.

This was the grim logic of the free marketeers. If Bell Pottinger won the contract, they deserved to because the market had endorsed them. The morality of how they ran the account thereafter was not a language these radicals could understand. In their world  all morality had already been set by their dear markets. Money is the barometer of a societys virtue, as Rand put it.

There is evidence that Lord Bell genuinely sympathised with Pinochet, infamously one of the fiercest proponents of free markets yet seen. He relates in his memoirs an argument he once conducted with the author Gore Vidal, who had campaigned against the murderous dictator. Long before he was being paid to, Bell acted as an apologist, saying Pinochet was at least a bit more democratic than Allende. He justified this by claiming that Allende had burned the Chilean electoral rolls.

Marxist Allende had not, in fact; it was Bell-supported Pinochet that had, but the lie was repeated even in Bells memoirs many years later  a classic ploy of spin doctors; lie brazenly. When it came to Bahrain  a regime which the UK supports only to access the lucrative Saudi Arabian market, Bell Pottinger issued press releases claiming that the government was willing to medically treat protesters, when, in fact, the government was arresting doctors who offered treatment.

This pattern of excusing brutality through outright untruths has been repeated across Pottingers client list, but there has always been something deeper; a pattern of going after opportunities to strengthen the global neoliberal project that Bell and their acolytes had put their faith in.





Look at the firms defence of Lukashenko, the last dictator of Europe. They thought they could help push him away from Soviet Union-style state capitalism and towards free market liberalism. Bell Pottinger also swooped into Venezuela after socialist Hugo Chavez died, improving the image of the state-owned oil giant by commissioning surveys of foreign companies sceptical about investment in state-controlled economies. Their vigorous defence of energy firms like Trafigura and Cuadrilla speaks to their belief in how the free market alone should set ethical standards, and not scientific reality.

Despite their idealistic radicalism, ultimately all Bell Pottinger really did was offer common bribery dressed up as lobbying, in a way which would keep their clients out the courts.

Paying for access to elites has always been the de facto legalisation of corruption  the ultimate endpoint if neoliberalism is taken to its conclusion.

The reality, as the 2008 recession has shown, was that the radical neoliberalism of Thatcher, Reagan, Rand and Bell Pottinger is useless.

Lord Bell of Belgravia has, therefore, turned out to be neither a priest, nor a businessman; but a bit of both. He and his firm worshipped a false god  the free market  and went to extraordinary lengths to practise their faith.

These lengths would eventually consume the company itself. Perhaps to them, this demise at the hands of the market they worshipped is proof their god exists, after all.

Nobody has said the market isnt real though, only that as a political solution to the worlds problems, it isnt something worth stoking racial tension for, lying for, defending mass murderers, or selling off democracy. Bell Pottinger did all of that and more. We should be very glad they are gone.

Alastair Sloan is a London-based journalist. He focuses on injustice and human rights in the UK and international affairs, including human rights, the arms trade, censorship, political unrest and dictatorships.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Recently my colleague Ilan Pappe and I were in Mexico City attending a conference on Palestine. In the course of the memorable few days we spent together catching up with the latest atrocities around the globe (in between our respective talks on the habitual shenanigans of the Zionist settler colony in Palestine), perhaps the most memorable phrase I remember is when Ilan cited our mutual friend the eminent Indian Marxist Aijaz Ahmed who had once told him our singular historical failure as a nation was after 200 years of British colonialism we failed to teach them how to cook!

Soon after that memorable phrase I came across a typically blase BBC report headlined The true story behind Englands tea obsession, celebrating British and other European aristocracies, this time about the culinary calamity the British call tea.

WATCH: The Stream  The real cost of your cup of tea

Imagine the most English-English person you can think of, the piece begins, Now Im fairly certain that no matter what picture you just conjured up, that person comes complete with a stiff upper lip and a cup of tea in their hand. Clumsy grammar you might say, but the point is quite clear: the origin of tea might indeed be China, but it was Catherine of Braganza, daughter of Portugals King John IV, who made tea popular in England. The entire article is a silly piece of British aristocratic memorabilia covering up a much nastier global history of British imperialism surrounding tea.

Lets put it bluntly

First of all, lets talk tea. The British do not know how to make tea. What they call tea is a travesty. There is no polite way of putting it. They just suck at making tea. Yes, they have built a splendid ceremony around what they call the afternoon tea but at the centre of the ritual is a nonsensical disaster they make with a beautiful and miraculous herb about which they do not understand the most basic facts.

There are few hours in life more agreeable, says Henry James famously in The Portrait of a Lady than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea. Perhaps so  though the Japanese Tea Ceremony/The Way of Tea is infinitely more elegant and sublime. Be that as it may, the British mannerism around tea is most certainly not because of the wretchedly abused leaves they kill to nullity but because of the literary aura that Henry James and others have helped build around the ceremony.

To be sure, I am not the first person to point out the fact the British are a global embarrassment to the very idea of tea. Tea is shit. This is not me. I will never say such a thing about any other peoples culinary habits  no matter how atrocious. This is coming from writer Joel Golby, a proper Brit who has come out and declared what the British call tea a national disgrace, confessing for the whole world to know that their tea is shit. Further elaborating:

We dont examine this enough in England. We just putter along, thinking tea is good; but its not good. Its a lukewarm mug of leaf water, presented as a cure-all for lifes ills. Nice cup of tea, people say, when youve watched a vivid car accident or been given a terminal diagnosis, or gone for a walk and its started raining. Whether the mafia has kidnapped you and made you kill a man with a gun to win your freedom or if youve done quite badly in an exam, someone will say: Let me get you a nice cup of tea.

But what is the problem, where did the British go wrong with their tasteless abuse of tea? Oh, Brother let me count the ways!

Tea, dear friends, is a miraculous potion and if brewed to perfection it is composed on the physiognomy of the human face  and thus made to yield its God-given properties it will entice three of our most precious five senses. Following the order of the human face, a perfectly brewed tea begins with the gift of sight in our eyes on the top of our face designed to see, coming down to the nose in the middle to smell the aroma and concluding with the lips and the mouth where our sense of taste informs the treasure house of our palate.

I have known since I was a toddler accompanying my late mother to Hajj Abduhs grocery store in Ahvaz, may they both rest in peace, that no tea on this earthly abode has these three qualities of colour, aroma and taste together and therefore a good tea is a composite tea, judiciously made of at least three different kinds of teas.

Towards a post-colonial theory of tea

Let me be more specific: imagine a beautiful cup of tea. What is the first thing you notice about that cup of tea: Of course its splendidly ruby colour. That is the first law of tea that the British egregiously violate by drinking their tea in those silly cups that are not see-through. A proper cup of tea, as any civilised Indian, Iranian, Turk or central Asian can tell you, needs to be poured into a see-through cup. You start enjoying your tea by first looking at it, drinking, as it were, its miraculously crimson colour.

Then as you bring the see-through cup closer to your face to drink it rises the aroma (nose) and finally the taste (mouth) of the tea.

Here comes the next calamity of the British, which is flooding their wretched tea with milk! What a total horror! Milk rudely destroys the delicately combined comportment of colour, aroma and taste of any decent tea all at the same time.

The few precious words that my generous Al Jazeera editors afford me do not allow me to talk in detail about the most precious of all moments when you actually drink the tea in the company of a small piece of sugar cube you strategically place in the corner of your mouth for what we call dishlameh or ghand-pahlo, the exact antithesis of the criminal atrocity of the British saturating their tea with merciless spoons of sugar, poisoning the wretched tea they drink.

The entire joy of drinking tea, as any Turk, Russian, Iranian, or Central Asian teahouse master will tell you is the exquisite delicacy of negotiating a peaceful, cooperative, and delightful coexistence between the bitterness of tea and the sweetness of sugar, diplomatically negotiated inside your mouth. Can you even imagine Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, or Theresa May trying to grasp that sublime sense of peaceful coexistence between tea and a sugar cube conversing in your mouth? Of course not. Ask them what is dishlameh  its Greek to them.

The colonial colouring of tea

But what went wrong  as the notorious Zionist Orientalist Bernard Lewis would say. How did the British end up with their miserable cup of tea?

The history of British tea does not begin with some silly aristocratic marriage but with slavery. How did tea emerge as Britains hot beverage of choice an acute observer has asked recently on NPR, to which she has offered the apt observation: Tea met sugar, forming a power couple that altered the course of history. It was a marriage shaped by fashion, health fads and global economics. And the growing taste for sweetened tea also helped fuel one of the worst blights on human history: the slave trade.

When American colonies began their revolt against the British, they called their initial uprising the Tea Party, for disguised as Native Americans, they threw an entire shipment of tea sent to American colonies by the notorious East India Company into Boston Harbor. But this very American revolution would itself degenerate into the genocide of those very Native Americans and an even more murderous chapter in African slavery.

The selfsame East India Company whose tea was thrown into Boston harbour used to buy tea from China for import with the money they made by their illegal trading in opium they grew in India. The British thus aggressively turned the Chinese into drug addicts by the abused labour of their colonies in India. Just imagine the depth of bastardy! What a plague, what a criminal calamity beyond words has British colonialism been to the world. When the Chinese tried to stop these illegal smuggling, Great Britain went to war with China in their so-called Opium Wars.

Historians of tea tell us: The rise of tea and sugar as a power duo was a boon for British government coffers. By the mid-1700s, tea imports accounted for one-tenth of overall tax income. The same goes for sugar: According to one analysis  in the 1760s, the annual duties on sugar imports were enough to pay to maintain all ships in the navy  Those tea-and-sugar monies helped supply the British navy with better foodstuffs  and that navy was key to spreading British might across the globe. Its this dominance of the British navy that allows Britain to become the major colonial power in the 19th century.

What was the cost of this horrid British cup of tea? That cost will have to be measured in human misery. This fad for tea came in just as sugar was under attack and had started to fall out of favour. By creating a new and lasting use for this sweetener, tea helped buoy demand for sugar from the West Indies. And indeed, it continued to support the expansion of slavery there.

After all these criminal atrocities around the world  stealing, pillaging, trading in slaves, mass murdering people to rob them of their natural resources  are you surprised at what the British have ended up with? Drinking that tea is an act of redemptive suffering, a just punishment for what the British have done to the world at large. Every time they sip from that accursed cup they are paying penance for the terror they have visited upon this earth.

Hamid Dabashi is Hagop Kevorkian Professor of Iranian Studies and Comparative Literature at Columbia University in New York.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Surfers from around the world are converging on a remote Norwegian archipelago for the Lofoten Masters competition.

Unstad, Norway  The road to the northernmost surf school in the world is extraordinary, running through a towering, pinnacled landscape fringed here and there by stunning beaches of white sand. The Lofoten Islands are about 220km inside the Arctic Circle, an ancient rocky archipelago reaching out from the coast of Norway.

Tunnels hewed through mountainsides lead you to Unstad, an old fishing hamlet where reliance on the sea has taken a new turn.

Rather than the rigours of whaling and cod-fishing, Unstad is more famous for its surfing lingo and hang-loose vibe. This is extreme surf country. Its north of Iceland and north of the Arctic Circle, where the Atlantic rollers crash in, and in the right conditions on this beach make the perfect, albeit freezing, wave to ride.

And this week its home to the Lofoten Masters, where surfers from around the world are congregating to catch the waves. The event started in 2007, and its evolved from a gathering of local surfers into a popular side event on the international surfing calendar.

People come from all over the world to compete  from California, Asia, Australia, said Marion Frantzen, who runs Unstad Arctic Surf. And actually the waters not as cold as you might think because the Gulf Stream sweeps right in to these islands and turns up the temperature.

Still, its full-on wetsuits for all competitors as they take on the Arctic waters, with a mobile sauna on hand for rapid re-warming.

Surfing began in Norway back in the 1960s, thanks to Marions father. He was working on a whaling ship in the Southern Ocean and ended up trying out surfing on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. He was so taken with the sport he decided to bring it home to Norway.

He and a friend modelled their prototype board from the front cover of the 1962 Beach Boys album, Surfin Safari, and filled it with insulation from a 1950s fridge. And so surfing was born in Norway. The board still hangs on the walls of the surf school.

In the last few years things have really taken off as more and more people are seeking out wilderness adventures, Marion said. And no danger of shark attacks here. Youre more likely to be watching sea eagles and seals as you wait for the wave to ride.

Among those on safety patrol this week is surf instructor Edi Siswanto, from Bali. Edi followed his girlfriend to Sweden and made a beeline for Unstad. You dont really think of Norway as a surfing location, he said. But on a good day waves here are as good as any in Bali. You get a really good swell coming in.

Its not exactly tropical water, but you get used to it.

Surfers compete more for glory than money at the Lofoten Masters. And where else in the world can you surf by day and see the Northern Lights by night?
Refugees who fled Myanmar endure dire conditions at impromptu camps as they wait for aid amid torrential rain.

Balukhali, Coxs Bazar  Hundreds of Rohingya, including children, were jostling to get hold of aid packages being thrown from trucks at Balukhali in the Bangladeshi city of Coxs Bazar bordering Myanmar.

Women, many with babies on their shoulders, stood in torrential rain in the hope of getting food, tarpaulins and clothes distributed by local Bangladeshis.

Chaos was all around at Balukhali, where a large number of Rohingya have taken refuge, as the rain added to the misery of the persecuted community.

Highlighting the grave conditions for Rohingya refugees, aid agencies reported on September 15 that at least two children and one woman were killed in a stampede that broke out as aid was being distributed.

More than half of the estimated 412,000 Rohingya who have escaped Myanmars military crackdown live in makeshift sites without proper shelter, clean drinking water and sanitation.

On Sunday, police and army officials were checking vehicles coming from the camps towards Coxs Bazar city, a day after the Bangladesh government announced restrictions on the refugees movement.

Arefa, along with hundreds of fellow Rohingya, was among the crowd waiting for the much-needed aid.

She was drenched, holding her two-year-old daughter Minara on her shoulder. Arefa was crying. She said there was no food for her and her two children.

I do not have food, no shelter and no way to cook anything. I have yet to get any relief, she said with tears pouring down. If I get aid I eat, otherwise I go hungry.

READ MORE: We will kill you all  Rohingya beg for safe passage

Arefa, who arrived here two days ago from Lambaguna village in Akyab district, said she is 40, but she looked much younger. Her husband, Nabi Hussain, was shot dead by the Myanmar military, she said.

A fellow Rohingya offered her a small tarpaulin tent until she arranges her own. But at the private aid distribution centre in Balukhali, she had little luck.

Refugee crisis

Myanmars military launched a bloody crackdown on ethnic Rohingya, who are mostly Muslims, after an armed Rohingya group carried out a deadly attack against the army.

Since then the army has killed more than 400 people and driven out hundreds of thousands from the western Rakhine state, creating one of the biggest refugee crises of recent times.

Distressed Rohingya have built shanties made of tarpaulin and bamboo sticks on sandy hillocks and in open spaces, as there is limited space in the registered camps run by national and international NGOs.

The Inter Sector Coordination Group, which comprises various humanitarian agencies, on Sunday said in a report that 326,700 people in makeshift and spontaneous settlements were in need of emergency shelter.

The rain caused flooding in several camp sites, forcing people to move to new areas. Balukhali already hosts thousands of Rohingya who fled last October.

Manzoor Ahmed, who had pitched a tent on a private land provided by a local Bangladeshi, said his house was inundated.

Its really bad; water has entered our home. The entire area is flooded, he said.

I have no space to sleep. My brain is not working. I do not know what to do.

READ MORE: Myanmar  Who are the Rohingya?

The 65-year-old arrived in Balukhali three days ago with 11 members of his family. He said he was lucky; none of his family members got killed.

People were seen carrying bamboo sticks on their shoulders to erect homes as the muddy, narrow roads slowed down aid work.

People are still on the move

Aid agencies are warning that operations cannot run in this disorganised manner. Coordination between humanitarian agencies, local NGOs and the authorities is crucial, they have said.

We are trying to expand our activities and build new clinics and health posts to give basic access to healthcare, but at the end of the day everything is slowed down by the infrastructure and logistic challenges, said Robert Onus, emergency coordinator at Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

The scale of the crisis may not be well understood by everyone because its impossible to describe unless you see it with your own eyes, he told Al Jazeera.

Fearing an outbreak of disease, authorities have set up vaccination booths in various camps for children under five.

Misada Saif, spokesman for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), told Al Jazeera: Its a huge crisis and beyond the capacity of many international organisations working on the ground. People are still on the move; families are looking for shelter.

Message to the world from Nasima Khatun, a Rohingya

At the distribution centre at Balukhali, 20-year-old Fahmida Begam waited for support with her one-year-old son, Yasir Arafat. She arrived one week ago from Myuinisong in Maungdaw with her husband, Shamsur Alam, and their two children.

She stays in a shanty that she says is too small to accommodate the six members of her family. Due to the rain, they could not sleep last night as the tarpaulin leaked, making the sandy floor too cold.

Yesterday I came to receive relief but returned empty-handed. I came to try my luck again but its around 12pm, and I have not got anything.
At least 15 people were killed on Monday when two female suicide bombers attacked an aid distribution point in northeastern Nigeria.

A rescue worker said the first blast happened at 11:10am local time (10:10 GMT) in Mashalari village of the Konduga area, about 40km from Borno state capital Maiduguri.

[It] killed 15 people and left 43 others injured, he told AFP news agency. It happened during aid distribution by an NGO, when people had gathered to receive donations.





Twelve minutes later, another bomber struck, but luckily only she died, he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The rescue worker said both bombers were women but did not specify which NGO was distributing aid.

Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force, a militia assisting the military with security, confirmed the rescue workers account.

We have dispatched out a team to the scene, he said.

Bello Dambatta, head of rescue operations for Borno states Emergency Management Agency, said women were the majority of those killed in the morning attack and the death toll was likely to rise.

WATCH: Nigerians return home to rebuild lives shattered by Boko Haram

No immediate claim of responsibility came for the attack, but the Boko Haram armed group has carried out similar bombings in the past in the region.

Northeastern Nigeria is in the grip of a humanitarian crisis caused by Boko Haram violence, which has left at least 20,000 people dead and displaced more than 2.6 million since 2009.

The violence has devastated farming, leading to chronic food shortages and leaving hundreds of thousands of people on the brink of starvation and dependent on aid agencies for help.

Nigerias military and government maintain that Boko Haram is a spent force as a result of a sustained counterinsurgency campaign over the last two years.

But continued attacks, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas of Borno, suggest claims of outright victory are premature.

WATCH: Boko Haram  Behind the rise of Nigerias armed group

On Saturday, at least 28 people were killed and more than 80 wounded when three female suicide bombers detonated their explosives outside a camp for displaced people in Konduga.

This month, Boko Haram fighters fired a rocket-propelled grenade into a camp for internally displaced persons near the border with Cameroon, killing seven.

Amnesty International says Boko Haram attacks since April have killed nearly 400 people in Nigeria and Cameroon  double the figure of the previous five months.

The UN childrens fund said last month 83 children had been used as suicide bombers this year, four times as many as in all of 2016.
Ibrahim Halawa, detained at age 17, is expected to walk free after years of mockery of justice in pre-trial detention.

An Egyptian criminal court has acquitted an Irish-Egyptian man kept in pre-trial detention for four years who says he was regularly tortured during his incarceration.

Ibrahim Halawa  arrested at age 17 as part of a deadly crackdown on protests in Cairo and who faced the death penalty  has yet to walk free following Mondays verdict, said defence lawyer Yasmeen Said.

In pictures: Bloodbath in Egypt





Hawala and his three sisters were arrested along with hundreds of others in August 2013, days after security forces violently broke up a sit-in by supporters of then-president Mohammed Morsi, who had been overthrown by the military the previous month.

The sisters were released three months later on bail, but Halawa was kept in custody.

UK-based international human rights organisation, Reprieve, which is assisting Ibrahim, said in a statement Mondays verdict was long overdue.

Ibrahim was arrested as a child for the crime of attending a protest, tortured, and tried facing the death penalty alongside adults in an unfair mass trial, said Maya Foa, director of Reprieve.

For years, these court proceedings  which were designed to punish political dissent  made a mockery of justice.

She also said the Irish government and others must now not rest until Ibrahim is at home in Ireland.

The wider international community  including the EU, which helps to fund Egypts courts  must also call urgently on Egypt to end its use of patently illegal mass trials, she said.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar welcomed Halawas acquittal and said the case had been an extraordinarily protracted one.

Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity, Varadkar said in a statement.

Prisoner of conscience

The court on Monday sentenced 43 defendants to life imprisonment (25 years under Egyptian law), 399 defendants were sentenced to between five and 15 years, and 52 were acquitted, including Halawa.

Najia Bounaim, North Africa research director at Amnesty International, said Ibrahim was a prisoner of conscience who should never have been detained in the first place.

Ibrahim Halawas acquittal puts an end to the gross injustice in his case. However, it is utterly disgraceful that at the same time the Egyptian authorities have handed out heavy sentences to 442 others after sham proceedings in a mass trial that flouted the most basic standards of a fair trial, while security forces who used excessive and lethal force during protests that day have escaped unpunished, she said.

READ MORE: A letter to my brother in Egyptian prison

Halawa was arrested on August 16, 2013  a day of violence centred around a mosque in Cairos central Ramses Square. Dozens were killed and scores wounded in clashes between Morsi supporters and police.

Halawas health has deteriorated over the years, with the young man protesting his detention with several hunger strikes. He has lost at least 30kg, according to his family.

US-based Human Rights Watch says the Egyptian government has arrested, charged, indicted or sentenced tens of thousands of people during unfair trials.
Indias government said on Monday it has evidence showing some Rohingya in the country have ties to terror organisations and pose a security threat that justifies a mass deportation of the ethnic group.

Indias home ministry said it would confidentially share intelligence information with the Supreme Court showing Rohingya links with Pakistan-based armed groups, in a bid to get legal clearance for plans to deport 40,000 Rohingya.

The Supreme Court is hearing an appeal lodged on behalf of Rohingya against the deportation plan proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modis Hindu nationalist government.

Indias home ministry submitted an affidavit to the court arguing the hardline stance was justified by the security threat posed by illegal immigrants from the majority-Muslim Rohingya ethnic group, hundreds of thousands of whom have fled from Myanmar to Bangladesh, from where many have crossed into India.

The court has no business to interfere in such matters of what they call illegal immigrants or illegal migrants, the government said in the affidavit.

READ MORE: Coxs Bazar  Chaos all around at Rohingya camps

Additional Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta told the court the government would provide evidence of Rohingya links with extremist groups and illegal transfers of money at the next hearing.

The lawyer representing the Rohingya denounced the move.





This is clearly a case of religious discrimination and an attempt to arouse an anti-Muslim feeling, Prashant Bhushan said.

The ministry said the influx of large numbers of Rohingya into India began four to five years ago, long before an exodus that saw more than 400,000 Rohingya flee to Bangladesh since August 25 to escape a Myanmar military offensive that the United Nations has called ethnic cleansing.

The affidavit went on to say the government had reports from security agencies and other credible sources indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries.

It also said there was information on Rohingya involvement in plots by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) and other extremist groups to ignite communal and sectarian violence in India.

Senior home ministry official Mukesh Mittal said the Indian government would privately show the court material gathered from sensitive investigations to substantiate the claims in its affidavit.

Bhushan will file a rejoinder to the governments affidavit, his office told Reuters news agency.

The court will next hear the matter on October 3.

Meanwhile, police said on Monday they had arrested a suspected member of al-Qaeda who they believed was trying to recruit Rohingya living in India to fight security forces in Myanmar.

Senior police officer Pramod Kushwaha said British national Shauman Haq, 27, was arrested near a bus stop in New Delhi on Sunday. He had come to India via Bangladesh.

Myanmar: Who are the Rohingya?

Rohingya in India voiced worries that they were being unfairly tainted by the allegations and sought more understanding for their plight.

We feel helpless and hopeless, said Rohingya youth leader Ali Johar, who came to India in 2012 and lives with his family in a Delhi settlement.

The worlds largest democracy has given us shelter, but they should handle this situation more empathetically.

Modis government has been criticised by activists for not speaking out against Myanmars recent military offensive against Rohingya fighters, and right-wing groups in India have begun vilifying Rohingya living there.

The Rohingya are denied citizenship in Buddhist-majority Myanmar and regarded as illegal immigrants, despite claiming roots that date back centuries. More than 800,000 Rohingya currently live in Bangladesh.
Thousands of Muslim-majority Rohingya encircled by hostile Buddhists in Rathedaung are pleading for a secure way out.

Thousands of majority-Muslim Rohingya in violence-wracked northwest Myanmar are pleading with authorities for safe passage from two remote villages cut off by hostile Buddhists and running short of food.

Were terrified, Maung Maung, a Rohingya official at Ah Nauk Pyin village, told Reuters news agency by telephone. Well starve soon and theyre threatening to burn down our houses.

Another Rohingya contacted, who asked not to be named, said ethnic Rakhine Buddhists came to the same village and shouted, Leave or we will kill you all.

Fragile relations between Ah Nauk Pyin and its Rakhine neighbours were shattered on August 25 when deadly attacks by Rohingya rebels in Rakhine State prompted a ferocious response from Myanmars security forces.

At least 430,000 Rohingya have since fled into neighbouring Bangladesh to evade what the United Nations has called a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

READ MORE: Myanmar  Who are the Rohingya?

About one million Rohingya lived in Rakhine until the recent violence. Most face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.





Tin Maung Swe, secretary of the Rakhine State government, said he was working closely with local authorities, and had received no information about the Rohingya villagers plea for safe passage.

There is nothing to be concerned about, he said when asked about tensions. Southern Rathedaung is completely safe.

National police spokesman Myo Thu Soe said he also had no information about the Rohingya villages, but he would look into the matter.

Britain is to host a ministerial meeting on Monday on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly in New York to discuss the situation in Rakhine State.

Encircled

Ah Nauk Pyin sits on a mangrove-fringed peninsula in Rathedaung, one of three townships in northern Rakhine State. The villagers say they have no boats.

Until three weeks ago, there were 21 Muslim villages in Rathedaung, along with three camps for Muslims displaced by previous bouts of religious violence. Sixteen of those villages and all three camps have since been emptied and in many cases burned down, forcing an estimated 28,000 Rohingya to flee.

Rathedaungs five surviving Rohingya villages and their 8,000 or so inhabitants are encircled by Rakhine Buddhists and acutely vulnerable, say human rights monitors.

READ MORE: Bangladesh restricts movement of Rohingya refugees

The situation is particularly dire in Ah Nauk Pyin and nearby Naung Pin Gyi, where any escape route to Bangladesh is long, arduous, and sometimes blocked by hostile Rakhine neighbours.

Maung Maung, the Rohingya official, said the villagers were resigned to leaving but the authorities had not responded to their requests for security. At night, he said, villagers heard distant gunfire.





Its better they go somewhere else, said Thein Aung, a Rathedaung official, who dismissed Rohingya allegations that Rakhines were threatening them.

Only two of the August 25 attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) took place in Rathedaung. But the township was already a tinderbox of religious tension, with ARSA citing the mistreatment of Rohingya there as one justification for its offensive.

Maung Maung said he had called the police at least 30 times to report threats against his village.

On September 13, he said, he got a call from a Rakhine villager he knew. Leave tomorrow or well come and burn down all your houses, said the man, according to a recording Maung Maung gave to Reuters.

When Maung Maung protested that they had no means to escape, the man replied: Thats not our problem.

IN PICTURES: Inside the hospital treating Rohingya refugees

On August 31, the police convened a roadside meeting between two villages, attended by seven Rohingya from Ah Nauk Pyin and 14 Rakhine officials from the surrounding villages.

Instead of addressing the Rohingya complaints, said Maung Maung and two other Rohingya who attended the meeting, the Rakhine officials delivered an ultimatum.

They said they didnt want any Muslims in the region and we should leave immediately, said the Rohingya resident of Ah Nauk Pyin who requested anonymity.

The Rohingya agreed, said Maung Maung, but only if the authorities provided security.

They had yet to receive a response, he said.
Pyongyang says latest sanctions will only increase pace towards the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force.

Stricter international sanctions will only lead North Korea to speed up its nuclear programme, Pyongyang said, as US and Chinese leaders agreed to maximise the pressure on the regime of Kim Jong-un.

The increased moves of the US and its vassal forces to impose sanctions and pressure on the DPRK will only increase our pace towards the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force, a statement on North Korean state media said on Monday, using the acronym for the countrys official name, Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.





The UN Security Council last week imposed new sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, seeking to curb Pyongyangs sources of income.

The new measures slapped Pyongyang with an export ban on textiles, froze work permits to North Korean guest workers, and placed a cap on oil supplies.

The sanctions came on top of measures issued last month that were expected to cut roughly $1bn from the regimes $3bn in annual export revenue.

State news agency KCNA, quoting a foreign ministry statement, said the economic restrictions were an act of hostility to physically exterminate the people of North Korea.

[The US is] disseminating the fraudulent claim that the sanctions and pressure are geared to the so-called peaceful solution, it said.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis played down the threat of North Koreas recent missile launches.

Number one, those missiles are not directly threatening any of us, Mattis said on Monday.

The North Koreans are intentionally doing provocations that seem to press against the envelope for just how far can they push without going over some kind of a line, in their minds, that would make them vulnerable, he said. So they aim for the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

The bottom line is that the missiles, were they to be a threat either to the US or Japan, that would elicit a different response from us.

US President Donald Trump discussed North Koreas continued defiance of the international community with President Xi Jinping, the White House said on Monday.

The two leaders are committed to maximising pressure on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions, a statement said.

China has traditionally been North Koreas closest international ally, although North Koreas repeated missile tests have hardened Beijings line on the Kim regime.

RELATED: North Korea  All you need to know explained in graphics

The international community is scrambling to contain an increasingly belligerent Pyongyang, which has conducted its sixth and largest nuclear test and fired long-range missiles over Japan that it says could reach the US mainland.

North Korea says it needs nuclear weapons to protect itself from US forces and is determined to build a system capable of delivering a nuclear warhead capable of hitting the mainland US.

North Korea is expected to be a main talking point at the UN General Assembly in New York this week.
Nineteen-year-old Mara Fernanda Castilla went missing after using a ride-hailing app in the Mexican state of Puebla.

Holding signs that read ni una mas (not one more) and no fue tu culpa (it was not your fault), thousands marched across cities in Mexico on Sunday, calling for government action against femicide after a 19-year-old was found dead after using a ride-hailing app.

The body of Mara Fernanda Castilla was found near a motel in the central Mexican state of Puebla on Friday after she went missing a week earlier.

In a statement, Puebla authorities said they believe she was killed by a driver from the taxi-hailing application, Cabify. She had used the app on the night of September 8 but never arrived at her destination.

The driver of the vehicle has since been arrested, and officials say he will be charged with femicide.

The news of Castillas death stoked anger across Mexico, prompting civil society groups, activists and community members to organise marches on Sunday in support of Castilla and other victims of femicide.

Sexual violence against women is constant, and it happens on a daily basis in Mexico, Tania Reneaum, the executive director of Amnesty International Mexico, told Al Jazeera.

We marched not only for Mara but for so many women who have been killed, Reneaum said, referencing the recent deaths of 22-year-old Lesby Berlin Osorio in May and 11-year-old Valeria Teresa Gutierrez in June.

READ MORE: Murdering Mexican women with impunity

In the state of Puebla alone at least 83 women have been killed since the beginning of the year, according to local media.

Pointing to government statistics, Reneaum said 66 percent of women and children over the age of 15 have reported being sexually abused at least once.

Reclaiming space

Martha Violante, who marched in Mexico City, said: Femicides are a serious problem in our society since the governments response has not been enough.

Thousands in the capital chanted in Spanish: They will tremble, they will shake, because machismo has got to end  Do not stop applauding, do not stop applauding, machismo must die.

Andalusia Knoll Soloff, a journalist who also attended the Mexico City rally, said several protesters were marching for the first time.

I think the march was less about demands and more about women exerting their rights to live their lives, Knoll Soloff told Al Jazeera. Thousands of women have been killed over the last few years.

The general message was about reclaiming space and exerting your rights as an independent woman that you should be able to live your life as you want, and not think that if you call a taxi from a secure taxi app because its late at night that youre going to end up dead, Knoll Soloff added.

Mara tomo un taxi que consideraba seguro. Le costo la vida. Hoy marchamos por ella y miles de otras Victimas de Feminicidio. #NiUnaMas pic.twitter.com/pijzue3vFt   (@Andalalucha) September 17, 2017

Translation: Mara took a taxi that she thought was safe. She never made it home. Today we march for Mara and thousands of other victims of femicide.

According to Knoll Soloff, ride-hailing applications like Cabify and Uber have become increasingly popular across Mexico, especially for women.

In Mexico, taxis are considered unsafe, she said, adding that apps such as Uber and Cabify are considered to be safer options due to the data that is shared during each ride.

Tony Gali, Pueblas governor, said in a tweet that the safety standards for Cabify would be reviewed.

Cabify released a statement on Twitter, saying that it deeply regretted and condemned the death of Castilla, demanding that the person responsible be held accountable.

Society must change

While many who attended Sundays marches blamed government inaction, several also pointed to societal factors.

Its a mixture between impunity, corruption and macho culture, Amnestys Reneaum said.

Protester Violante, who is also a journalist, said that as a Mexican woman, it is very difficult to know that leaving your house you may not return.

And worse, that if something does happen to you, some parts of society will blame you for being a whore, and not being a decent woman.

READ MORE: Women fight back against sexual harassment in Mexico

Violante explained that some people who walked past the Mexico City march were heard blaming Castilla for being out late at night.

Although such mentality does exist in Mexico, however, Violante believes there is also a cultural revolution taking place.

I think things are going to change, not today, but in time, she said.

Reneaum added that as women in Mexico, we want to feel safe, we want to feel alive and we wanted to have the public space for us too.
AfD, the first far-right party set to enter German parliament in more than half a century, attacks Islam and refugees.

Germanys right-wing populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ramped up attacks against immigration and Islam as its poll ratings jumped in the final stretch of election campaigning.

The Muslim religion does not belong in Germany, said a leading AfD candidate Alexander Gauland, who argued its political doctrine is not compatible with a free country.

Islamist rhetoric and violence and terror have roots in the Quran and in the teachings of Islam, he told reporters on Monday.

Among other proposals, AfD wants a ban on minarets and public calls to prayer from mosques, a ban on headscarves for teachers and students, and for imams to lead prayers only in German.





The latest polls show the AfD securing 10-12 percent of the vote, up from 8-10 percent.

The first far-right party set to enter Germanys parliament for more than a half a century has been saying it will press for Chancellor Angela Merkel to be severely punished for opening the door to refugees and migrants.

It has won support with calls for Germany to shut its borders immediately, introduce a minimum quota for deportations, and stop refugees bringing their families here.

Merkels Christian Democrat alliance CDU/CSU slipped two points to 36 percent, close to the all-time low of 35 percent when the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) led by Gerhard Schroeder defeated it in 1998.

Merkels conservative alliance still commands a huge lead over the SPD of her top rival Martin Schulz, which slipped to 23 percent.

Third-largest party?

AfD, which has also called for Germanys immigration minister to be disposed of in Turkey where her parents come from, could become the third-largest party in the September 24 election, polls show.

The prospect of a party that has been compared with the Nazis entering the heart of German democracy is unnerving other parties. They all refuse to work with AfD and no one wants to sit next to them in parliament.

Gauland denies they are Nazis, saying others only use the term because of the partys popularity.

The other top AfD candidate Alice Weidel along with Gauland have stirred controversy while campaigning.

Gauland has argued Germany should be proud of its veterans of two world wars. And Weidel reportedly employed an asylum-seeker without paying tax, a claim she has denied.

RELATED: German far-right party calls for Merkel to be punished

Founded as an anti-euro party, the AfD recorded a surge in support after it began capitalising on unease in Germany over the arrival of more than a million asylum-seekers since 2015.

Its members now sit in 13 of 16 state assemblies and, eyeing the national parliament, have plastered towns and cities with posters carrying the slogans Burqas? We prefer bikinis or New Germans? We make them ourselves!

Its supporters have loudly disrupted Merkels rallies, where they loudly jeer, boo and whistle in a bid to drown her out.
Sudden storm killed eight people in the western city of Timisoara before heading to Ukraine.

A storm packing powerful winds ripped off roofs and toppled trees in Romania on Sunday, killing eight people and injuring dozens more, officials and witnesses said.

With gusts that reached nearly 100km/h, the storm pounded the area around the western city of Timisoara before heading north towards Ukraine.

Most of the victims were outside when the winds swept in. One man was hit by a falling tree, another by a billboard. Two children were in hospital in critical condition.

The interior ministry reported that 67 people were injured in the unexpected storm.

Trees and roofs were torn off. Trucks were flipped over, water and electricity were cut off, Timisoaras mayor Nicolae Robu told TV channel Digi 24.

We werent warned about this. The weather report only called for rain, he added.

Teodora Cumpanasu of Romanias national meteorology agency classified the storm as having a rare intensity and being unexpected.

In particular, Cumpanasu blamed an abnormal, days-long accumulation of hot air that stagnated in the atmosphere. Temperatures were above 30 degrees Celsius in Romania on Sunday.

The storm killed at least five people around Timisoara before travelling 400 kilometres north and striking other areas along the way.

Everything happened very fast, Romanias interior minister Carmen Dan said.

Romanias national weather agency has issued warnings of strong winds and rainstorms for western areas.

Emergency responders have urged people to take shelter indoors, unplug household appliances and park in areas away from trees and power lines.
Saudi Arabia asks Snap Inc to remove Al Jazeera Discover Publisher Channel in the kingdom citing violation of local law.

Snapchat has blocked access to Al Jazeeras news articles and videos in Saudi Arabia following a request from the government.

Saudi Arabia told the social media company that the Al Jazeera Discover Publisher Channel violated local laws.

We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate, a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement on Sunday.





Al Jazeera Media Networks acting Director-General Mostefa Souag denounced the move.

We find Snapchats action to be alarming and worrying. This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they dont agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms and content distribution companies. This step is a clear attack on the rights of journalists and media professionals to report and cover stories freely from around the world, Souag said.

Morad Rayyan, head of Incubation and Innovation Research at Al Jazeera, said the move by Snapchat was unprecedented.

Snapchat is a US-based company, publicly traded, and it stands for freedom of expression. We are working on contingency plans to ensure our content is available on other platforms, Rayyan said.

We are urging them [Snapchat] to review the decision that was made. They were the ones who invited us to be one of their news partners for the region.

WATCH: Snap shares surge 44% on market debut

There are about eight million Snapchat users in Saudi Arabia, one of the largest audiences in the world for the social platform.

The decision to remove Al Jazeera was first reported by the Wall Street Journal on Sunday.

The conflict is the latest example of a technology company being pinned in the crosshairs of geopolitics as it navigates censorship of content on its platforms, the Wall Street Journal reported.

In March 2015, Saudi Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal, chairman of Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), received Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel in Saudi Arabia to discuss future potential business cooperation with Snap.

However, it remains unclear whether KHC ever invested in the company.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut diplomatic ties with Qatar and imposed sanctions on the country on June 5. They also blocked their residents access to Al Jazeera websites.
Officials crack down on Catalan referendum push, with largest intervention so far seizing 1.3m posters and pamphlets.

Spanish police have seized more than a million pro-referendum posters and pamphlets in Catalonia, according to government officials.

Authorities claimed the 1.3 million prints, which included about 700,000 leaflets promoting a yes vote in the regions planned vote on independence, from a warehouse near Barcelona on Sunday.





The proceedings were carried out during the morning of today [Sunday] and are the result of investigations carried out by the Civil Guard of Catalonia for the localisation of materials that promote the referendum suspended by the Constitutional Court, the interior ministry said in a statement.

This is the largest intervention of this illegal material made so far. Altogether, almost one and a half million materials to promote the illegal referendum, as well as printing plates, have been used so far, it added.

Catalonias regional government plans to hold a vote on independence on October 1 despite Spains Constitutional Court having ruled the ballot illegal on the basis it defies the nations constitutional decree declaring Spain indivisible.

READ MORE: Catalonia passes law for October 1 independence vote

Ada Colau, Barcelonas mayor, criticised Madrids response to the crisis during a pro-referendum meeting attended by more than 700 mayors from across Catalonia, on Saturday.

Its a disgrace that we have a government that is incapable of dialogue and instead dedicates itself to pursuing and intimidating mayors and the media, he said.

Spains state prosecutor ordered a criminal investigation into the 712 Catalan mayors who have agreed to help stage the referendum on September 14.

Mariano Rajoy, Spains prime minister, has urged people not to participate in the vote.

If anyone urges you to go to a polling station, dont go because the referendum cant take place, it would be an absolutely illegal act, he said on September 13.

READ MORE: Spain summons Catalan mayors over independence vote

Catalonia, a region of 7.5 million people with its own language and culture, accounts for about 20 percent of Spains economic output and has significant powers over matters such as education, healthcare and welfare.

About 49.4 percent of Catalans are against independence, while 41.1 percent are in favour, according to a poll commissioned by the Catalonian government in July.
Syrian soldiers, backed by Russian air raids, cross Euphrates River in a head-on course with rival SDF fighters.

Syrian troops battling ISIL crossed to the eastern bank of the Euphrates River in Deir Az Zor on Monday, securing their hold on the war-torn city but threatening a potential standoff with US-backed forces operating nearby.

Russian-backed Syrian forces are trying to tighten the noose on Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) fighters who are still inside the city on the rivers western bank.

The Syrian army sealed off Deir Az Zor on three sides as of Monday, but ISIL still controls eastern districts along the river, which both the group and civilians had used as an escape route.

READ MORE: Syria diplomatic talks  A timeline

On Monday, elite Syrian forces crossed the river, Russias defence ministry said.

Today, Syrian government forces  reinforced by a unit of the 4th Armoured Division and with the support of Russian aviation  crossed the Euphrates River in the Deir Az Zor region, a ministry statement said.

It said shock troops had already captured several villages on the rivers eastern bank from ISIL and were pushing further east.

A commander in a militia of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) confirmed Syrian army units had crossed and said his fighters were ready to drive them back.

If there are clashes between us and them  were ready for those if the forces of the regime dont go back to the other bank, Ahmed Abu Khawla of the SDFs Deir Az Zor military council said.

Intense air raids

Rami Abdurrahman, head of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, said the advance across the river was preceded by intense air raids on the eastern bank.

Even if the pro-government [forces] keep up their advance in the city, it will mean nothing if they dont control the eastern bank, Abdurrahman said.

The US and Russian-backed offensives against ISIL have stayed out of each others way with the Euphrates often acting as a dividing line. Talks have been under way to extend a formal demarcation line, officials have said.

The Syrian army has recently made major gains in Deir Az Zor.

The Euphrates slices diagonally across the province, an oil-rich eastern region of Syria bordering Iraq.





Until Monday, Syrian troops had only fought west of the Euphrates, while the SDF waged a rival offensive against ISIL east of the river.

The SDF has captured more than 500 square kilometres in northeastern parts of the province, according to the US-led coalition that is providing air cover.

To prevent the two operations from clashing, the coalition, the SDF, Syrias government, and Russia have agreed on a de-confliction line in northeast Syria.

That line runs from the neighbouring province of Raqqa and southeast along the Euphrates to Deir Az Zor.

Coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon declined to say whether the Syrian army crossing the river violated the de-confliction line.

Dillon said last week the US-backed fighters had no plans to go into the city.

READ MORE: Syrian army readies final fight to capture Deir Az Zor

Meanwhile, Deir Az Zors military airport in eastern Syria, which the Syrian army recaptured this month from ISIL, began functioning again on Monday for the first time in nearly a year, Syrian state media said.

Syrian government forces and their allies broke ISILs three-year siege of Deir Az Zor earlier this month, reaching the government-held enclave in the city and the adjacent airbase.

The UN estimates about 93,000 people were living in extremely difficult conditions in government-held parts of Deir Az Zor during ISILs siege and were supplied by air drops to the base.
UF will join the National Institutes of Healths All of Us research program, a project that aims to collect data from 1 million Americans who are underrepresented in medical research.

It fits with our research mission in terms of understanding what influences human health and human health outcomes, so we like to be at the forefront, said William Hogan, the director of biomedical informatics at the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute. We have joined a very elite group of institutions around the country by being part of this initiative.

The goal of the All of Us research program is to progress precision medicine, to use genetic information to more efficiently treat individual patients, Hogan said.

UF Health works with the programs SouthEast Enrollment Center. The center, which combines multiple universities and groups, has collectively received $4.45 million from All of Us to recruit participants and collect data.

The SouthEast Enrollment Center will reach under-researched populations, including African-Americans from the Deep South and Cuban-Americans from Miami. Selected researchers are close to these communities, giving them better access, Hogan said.

UF will play a large role in recruiting rural communities in northern Florida, Hogan said.

UF Health will collect participants electronic information and send it to the programs coordinating center at Vanderbilt University, Hogan said.

Hogan said the SouthEast Enrollment Center has an enrollment goal of 8,000 participants for its first phase. Enrollments will most likely begin around January 2018.

Benjamin Judkins, a 23-year-old UF medical second-year student, said precision medicine has been a big focus in medical school.

In a perfect world, it would be great to tailor everyones treatment to their own personal genetics, and hopefully we will get there, Judkins said.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now
Although Risa and Paul George visited the Florida Museum of Natural History with their three granddaughters to see the frog exhibit, they stayed for the Latino festival Saturday.

We were going to be here anyway, so we were pleasantly surprised, Risa said.

For the 13th year in a row, the Florida Museum, the UF Center for Latin American Studies and the Latina Womens League, a nonprofit that promotes Latino and Hispanic culture in Gainesville, hosted a festival to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, said Ellie Grosteffon, the Latina Womens League event coordinator.

The museums event, called Viva Museum!, was part of the Gainesville Latino Film Festival, a larger festival that is celebrated from Sept. 14 to Sept. 30, Grosteffon said.

About 200 people attended the free event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

We want our community to know were part of it and know about the cultural enhancement Latinos bring to it, Grosteffon said.

Viva Museum! was South American-themed and featured musical performances from 5 Notas, a Latin American band from Tallahassee, and Danzas PeruJax, a Peruvian dance group from Jacksonville.

The event also showcased artifacts from the museums South American collection, including a Peruvian candlestick, an Ecuadorian roof cross, a Bolivian straw basket and a Colombian armadillo-shaped piggy bank. High Springs Orchard & Bakery offered snacks for the attendees including coconut crunch cookies, empanadas and mango mojito chicken.

Risa said she thinks its important for the community to hold these types of events.

Theres no other way to appreciate each other if we dont know each other, she said.

Risa said when her granddaughters  4-year-old Evelyn, 2-year-old Evette and 11-month-old Evanee  saw the musical acts, they clapped and smiled brightly. When the last dance came around, they turned to their grandparents and asked Is there more?

Paul said hes happy the museum, which he described as a gift to Gainesville, held the event.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now

Its not just a movie or TV, he said. Its real.

Ana Duran, a Colombian who moved to Gainesville last year after living in Boston for 12 years, said she attended the festival because she saw it on Facebook.

I feel emotionally connected, said Duran about the event. These are my roots.

She said she enjoyed the event and was surprised to see how well-organized it was, since she knew the Latino community was smaller in Gainesville than in Boston. Duran attended the event with her son Daniel, 9, and her daughter Sara, 2.

This contact with the museum and cultural event is key to the kids education, Duran said.

@taveljimena

jtavel@alligator.org
On Saturday night, the president of Georgia Institute of Technologys LGBTQ+ student organization, the Pride Alliance, stood in a parking lot holding a knife. Scout Schultz stood there  in full view of a student dormitory  and told Georgia Tech Police to shoot.

This incident didnt end with Schultz getting the help they needed. They werent subdued and taken to a psychiatrist. Instead, the 21-year-old engineering student was shot and killed by campus police officers.

Were mentioning this, dear readers, because stories like this are too common in the U.S.

According to CNN, a video of the incident showed officers telling Schultz multiple times to drop the knife. Footage taken by a CNN affiliate station after the shooting showed a tool that would likely include a small blade lying on the ground next to Schultz. A video showed Schultz walking slowly, with their arms straight down, toward two officers with guns drawn.

Schultz shouted, Shoot me!

They were shot once and died later at a hospital.

The fact of the matter is that Schultz was suicidal. They were carrying a small weapon and, according to the CNN article, were not threatening anyone. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is looking into the shooting, but that wont bring back Schultzs life.

Something else to consider: The police told Schultz to stop multiple times, but if Schultz were a person of color, would the police give that many warnings? It seems like police officers are trained to take out threats by any means necessary  preferring guns over Tasers and lethal force over de-escalation.

Georgia Techs Pride Alliance website said Schultz, who used they/them pronouns, identified as nonbinary and intersex. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, LGBTQ individuals are almost 3 times more likely than others to experience a mental health condition.

We suppose this event struck a nerve with us at the Alligator because its reminiscent of the shooting of 16-year-old Robert Dentmond in March 2016 by Gainesville Police officers. Like Schultz, Dentmond appeared to want the police to kill him. He called 911 and said he was going to kill himself with an assault rifle. When the police came, Dentmond ignored commands and was shot and killed.

Dentmond was carrying an assault-rifle-style BB gun.

Police need better training on how to deal with mental health crises. Officers have to make split-second decisions for their own safety, however they should be trained to subdue suicidal 16-year-olds and 21-year-olds without lethal force.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now

To any Gators out there who are struggling, please reach out for help. It may seem scary or frustrating, especially as the Counseling & Wellness Center has notoriously long wait times for appointments (which needs a whole other editorial to address), but its worth it. There are therapists in Gainesville who can help. The Dean of Students Office has the U Matter, We Care program, where you can tell someone that you or a friend may be in trouble. You dont have to suffer alone.

By sharing with others and talking openly about things like depression and anxiety, we can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. As people talk more about it, we can avoid tragedies like the deaths of Scout Schultz and Robert Dentmond, who could have recovered to live full and happy lives.

If you or a friend need help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the UF Counseling & Wellness Center, located at 3190 Radio Road, at 352-392-1575.
Another day, another tweet from President Donald Trump. It doesnt quite come as a surprise to anyone anymore, does it? Our president has desensitized many of us to his cruelty and ignorance by exposing us to his repulsive words on a daily, or sometimes hourly, basis.

But let us not avert our eyes from one of his latest ventures: calling for the firing of ESPN host Jemele Hill, who characterized the president as a white supremacist on Twitter. Last Friday, Trump took to Twitter to write the following, directed at Hill: ESPN is paying a really big price for its politics (and bad programming). People are dumping it in RECORD numbers. Apologize for untruth!

Hills tweets, which she posted last Monday, had even drawn the attention of White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders during a press briefing Wednesday. Sanders, demonstrating her immense capability for incompetence, said Hills tweets constituted a fireable offense.

A fireable offense? Really? Since when does the press secretary for a right-wing administration, or any administration, for that matter, suggest a citizen in the private sector be fired for expressing an opinion on Twitter? Hill did not call for violence, and frankly, she didnt say anything others hadnt already. Why exactly should ESPN fire her?

I read her tweets, which largely focused on Trumps fitness for office (or, rather, lack thereof) and his empowerment of white supremacists. She emphasized how our president has surrounded himself with members of the alt-right, a faction of the right wing that touts white nationalism, racism and anti-Semitism.

Lest we forget, Trump himself blamed both sides after white nationalist groups confronted Black Lives Matter activists in Charlottesville, Virginia, just a few weeks ago. Our president essentially compared members of the Ku Klux Klan to members of social justice groups, even after footage came out of white nationalists chanting White lives matter and Jews will not replace us as they marched across the University of Virginia campus.

And before you get too comfortable thinking perhaps Trump has pivoted (Can you even pivot from something like this? My gut says no.) from that stance, dont hold your breath: Just this past Thursday, our president repeated his notorious both sides claim after a reporter asked about his meeting with Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina. Trump has sure distanced himself from the ideology of his favorite racist gremlin, Steve Bannon, huh?

Plain and simple, we have a man in the Oval Office who refuses to denounce racism and the agents of racism. We have a president waltzing around the West Wing suggesting, on multiple occasions, that Black Lives Matter activists are just as bad as neo-Nazis and the KKK. He has had more than one chance to walk these statements back, to reflect on the blatant malice of his words. But Trump is an ignorant, prejudiced coward, and he has continuously indicated he is not willing to denounce racism.

If you refuse to denounce racism, you are racist. That is how prejudice works. If you are comfortable enough to stay silent when you hear prejudiced remarks  whether they are racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, anti-Semitic or anything else  your silence highlights your complicity. You are complicit in that prejudice. Prejudice does not allow for innocent bystanders.

So, you know what? Not only should Hill keep her job, or any job she wants for that matter, but we should listen to her closely. Because she is right, and she said it best herself in fewer than 140 characters: Donald Trump is a white supremacist who has largely surrounded himself (with) other white supremacists.

Mia Gettenberg is a UF criminology and philosophy senior. Her column appears on Mondays.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now
What makes a university great? Is it the academics? The prestige? The ability to help students move up the socio-economic ladder? And what are we really bragging about when we share a Facebook post about UF being a top-10 public institution?

UF and its students have been quick to celebrate this accomplishment because being a top-10 public institution has been UFs goal for a long time  but, at least to me, its not clear what exactly this means.

Last week, UF was announced as No. 9 on US News & World Reports Top Public Schools ranking  tied with University of California, Irvine and University of California, San Diego. UF staff and students shared this across social media. But what does being in the top 10 mean for a university's students? Are there any measures that are relevant to students? Is it relevant to professors at all? Youll have to check the methodology to find out.

My fascination for the topic of school rankings comes from the high school I attended  which ranked highly in the Newsweeks, later The Washington Posts, Americas Most Challenging High Schools rankings. Since that ranking is calculated by dividing up the number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Advanced International Certificate of Education tests given at a school by the amount of graduating seniors, this means schools had every incentive to make students take more tests, but the outcome of the tests didnt matter. Often, the first year of an IB course would actually follow the coursework of an AP class, even though the curriculums were entirely different. These rankings have nothing to do with what is best or challenging  just how many tests they can pay for.

Similarly, Im not sure the US News & World Report rankings actually mean what most people think they do. The US News & World Report ranking takes into account graduation and retention rates (22.5 percent), undergraduate academic reputation (22.5 percent), faculty resources (20 percent), student selectivity (12.5 percent), financial resources (10 percent), graduation rate performance (7.5 percent) and alumni giving rate (5 percent). Its a formula that accounts for many different aspects of a university, but there are still parts that matter which are not included. Whether a university helps its most vulnerable students should also be a factor.

I understand that best can be difficult to quantify. However, it raises the question: Best for whom? This ranking doesnt reflect many of the things that affect students the most  campus culture, job outcomes for graduates, accessibility to students of different socio-economic statuses and more. Since UF has started its quest to become a top-10 public institution, its easy to see they have focused on the very things the ranking measures. But there are other rankings out there where UF does not fare as well.

For example, the US College Rankings by The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education focuses on resources, engagement, student outcomes and college environment. UF ranks No. 58, compared to the US News & World Reports ranking of UF as No. 42 in the national universities category. UF also ranks No.143 in the world.

Its OK to celebrate UFs achievement  but know what youre celebrating. The prestige factors such as student selectivity and undergraduate academic reputation weigh heavily. While those are important and can influence a students choice to attend the school  they are not the only things that matter. Lets find things to brag about that are quantifiable and concrete, that universities have historically struggled with  such as whether UF is good at helping low-income students, how UF encourages minority enrollment and how graduates fare in the workforce.

Nicole Dan is a UF political science and journalism junior. Her column appears on Mondays.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe Now
Climate Chance World Summit (http://ClimateChance-2017.com) has closed its 2nd edition held in Agadir, Morocco. It has hosted over 5,000 participants from 80 nationalities during 3 days of talks and debate. This edition reveals once again that international civil society continuously expect such meetings and talks, and reaffirms its determination to assert its natural role in []http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Appa-sourceTheAfric...
Silk Way West Airlines, a growing cargo operator based in Azerbaijan, and Alaska Airlines on Thursday signed contracts with Boeing for two freighters apiece  but that is where the similarities ended. Silk Way West said it will take two 777-8s, the largest plane available from Boeing (NYSE: BA) and one so modern it isnt []
Once again, big city Democrat politicians have failed us. A deep societal wound was opened this past weekend in the Show Me State, with Ferguson, the false clarion call of Hands Up Don't Shoot, and the Black Lives Matter marches all still fresh in our memories, another. The acquittal on Friday of a white cop on trial for murder for fatally shooting a black man in 2011 after a high-speed chase was immediately met with demonstrations and violence including attacks on police, property, and the media. That was predictable, but what was equally and sadly on display were incendiary comments by local elected Democrat officials up and down the line that appeared to add more fuel to the already volatile fire in the streets.

On the streets of St. Louis Sept. 16, 2017

As the story reached national media prominence last week, the bare outlines of the 2011 case were repeated again and again, without much attention to the important context or additional details. The origins of the current story  trial, acquittal, and unrest  date back to December 20, 2011, when several St. Louis police officers reportedly observed 24-year-old African-American, Anthony Lamar Smith, who had a long criminal record, engaged in a drug deal in a fast food restaurant parking lot.

When the cops attempted to question Smith, the suspect rammed one of the police cars with his sedan and then took off at high speed. The police gave chase and when Smiths car was forced to a stop, Smith was approached by 31-year-old white cop Jason Stockley. Officer Stockley fatally shot Smith five times after, he said, Smith disobeyed his orders to put his hands up and instead appeared to reach for a gun. A handgun was found in Smiths car after it was searched by Stockley.

A trial of Stockley for first degree murder did not take place until this year -- before a judge rather than a jury in a proceeding known as a bench trial. The 30-page decision issued by St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Timothy Wilson on September 15 found that the prosecution had not proven its case against officer Stockley (he has since left the St. Louis police department), who was acquitted. (The Daily Mail described Judge Wilson, 69, as objective and well-respected by prosecutors and defense lawyers alike who has ruled both for and against police during his 28 years on the bench.)

Immediately after Judge Wilsons decision was announced, the protests that had been promised by Black Lives Matter and other activist groups began.

Also immediately, one politician after another weighed in. One of the first to comment was St. Louis liberal Democrat Mayor Lyda Krewson, whose home, notwithstanding her mealy mouthed comments attempting to placate the critics of the cops acquittal, was attacked and vandalized by protesters Friday night:

St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson said she was appalled at what happened to Smith and sobered by this outcome. Frustration, anger, hurt, pain, hope and love all intermingle. I encourage St. Louisans to show each other compassion, to recognize that we all have different experiences and backgrounds and that we all come to this with real feelings and experiences.

Appalled at the outcome of a careful, lengthy, and completely lawful judicial process by a respected judge that found the evidence for first degree murder lacking in what some observers said was a politically motivated prosecution of officer Stockley (who was forced to leave his job in 2013) in the first place.

Krewson wasnt alone in throwing a sop to the mobs that would soon be taking to the citys streets. Left wing Democrat U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay, an African-American, represents St. Louis city. Clay gained national attention last January when he hung a painting depicting police officers as pigs in a public space in the U.S. Capitol building and then doubled down to defend his action when it was challenged in court. Last Friday after the verdict, Clay said:

Justice has been cruelly denied for Anthony Lamar Smith's family and this community. I stand in total solidarity with them in expressing my absolute outrage at this verdict.

Clay went on to say:

Once again, another young black man dies at the hands of a police officer, with no consequences. . . We must demand changes in local law enforcement to ensure all lives are respected and honored. There is no coming back after a life is taken, only sadness. . . It is simply an honest statement of the ugly and very painful truth that in America, in 2017, some lives are still worth more than others.

Another black Democrat, Missouri State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed, tweeted this comment:

No verdict could bring back Anthony Lamar Smith. But this one lays bare the integrity and accountability missing from our justice system.

Yet another Democrat, City Treasurer Tishaura Jones, who is a candidate for St. Louis Mayor, commented that Judge Wilsons

decision leaves me with more questions than answers. The ultimate measure of how our community deals with this verdict is not how quickly we are able to get back to business, but whether we implement policy change addressing injustice, racism, and inequality. We can no longer prioritize short-term order over long-term justice.

None of these politicians  in the midst of a volatile situation with various agitators having planned and threatened to take action  encouraged people to respect the integrity of the judicial system that had rendered a verdict in the case.

And so it goes. One of the few more moderate comments that could be found was one by Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., who called the verdict a difficult day for the Smith family and for all St. Louisans who sought a different outcome in this case. The response to this verdict will have a lasting impact not just on the community, but the country. Blunt added that the right to protest is a protected right.

However, if this verdict is met with violence and destruction, it will do nothing but reignite the fear and anger that law enforcement and community leaders have worked tirelessly to address since Ferguson. If it is met with a renewed commitment to continuing the work that is needed to rebuild trust between law enforcement and those they serve, it will show the world how we, as Americans, move forward.

Various media accounts have documented the violent actions of demonstrators on each of the three days and nights since the verdict was announced last Friday morning. Among the reports: multiple businesses were damaged with their windows smashed; over a dozen police officers were injured, including one with a broken jaw caused by one of the many bricks thrown by demonstrators; the mayors house was attacked and vandalized; media representatives were threatened and attacked, including several reporting live on TV; and business activity and commerce took a hit when thousands of downtown workers were sent home on Friday for their own safety, several area malls were invaded on Saturday, and a Saturday night U2 concert was canceled. On Sunday, unrest and violence continued with significant property damage.

Cleaning up broken store window after Sundays demonstrations in St. Louis

The character of many of the people who turned out, or who traveled to St. Louis to join the action, was something to behold as the cable TV news channels carried extensive live coverage, especially on Friday night. Sean Hannitys live Fox News program at 10 P.M. E.T. was interrupted by several F bombs and middle finger salutes as protesters appeared to take advantage of the opportunity to display their feral nature. One participant, interviewed by Fox News Mike Tobin, bragged that he was a three-time convicted felon, twice for heroin and once for assault.

Earlier on Friday, according to The Gateway Pundit:

Local [KTVI] FOX 2 reporter Dan Gray was covering the protests in downtown St. Louis. An angry protester in a Colin Kaepernick jersey started screaming at Dan Gray, the mob then pushed him out of the area and chased him down the street. Dan Gray got pummeled with water bottles as he fled the area!

In a tweet, Gray described it as the scariest moment in my career.

Reporter Dan Gray surrounded by demonstrators Sept. 15 before he was pummeled with water bottles.

During the week ahead now, demonstrations are likely to continue. An article largely sympathetic to the demonstrators point of view, published in The Blaze on Sunday, noted:

People are angry, so the protests will likely continue into this week and maybe longer as demonstrators demand answers.

In terms of demanding answers, it might help to start with disseminating more widely to the public some important information about the original case in 2011 that has not been easy to find in media accounts. For example, on September 15 the AP reported on the different pasts of Officer Stockley and suspect Smith (one had to go to the Kansas City Star to find this report):

Stockley, now 36, graduated from a Catholic high school in nearby Belleville, Illinois, then went to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. After graduation, he served in Iraq, where he was injured and awarded the Army Bronze Star. Stockley joined the St. Louis Police Department in 2007. He resigned in 2013, about two years after the shooting, and moved to Houston. Smith had a 1-year-old daughter when he died. His family has not disclosed much about him. Court records show he had a criminal record that included convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm and drug distribution. At the time of the shooting, he was on probation for a theft charge related to a 2010 crime in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson. In 2013, the St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners reached a $900,000 settlement with Smith's family, ending a wrongful-death lawsuit filed on behalf of Smith's daughter.

More context like the above might have helped. As Fox News contributor and St. Louis resident Kevin Jackson said during a Fox News broadcast on Saturday:

The real tragedy is that Anthony Lamar Smith was dealing heroin and we act as if hes Rosa Parks.

St. Louis resident Kevin Jackson on Hannity, live Sept. 15 9:11 P.M. C.T. during the height of Friday nights demonstrations

Essential reading to clarify the issues argued in court is an article/slideshow with illustrations titled A breakdown of the judge's ruling in Jason Stockley murder case published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Saturday.

Also adding clarity were the comments of Peter Kinder, former Republican Lieutenant Governor of Missouri, who was interviewed briefly by Sean Hannity on Hannitys Fox News show Friday evening:

Lets place this [2011] incident in context. This was three years before Ferguson. This is a 2011 case. Who was in office in 2011? Eric Holder was the Attorney General of the United States. He was followed by Loretta Lynch, both in the Obama administration. Arent we entitled to ask why they didnt file civil rights charges in this case?

Kinders unanswered question is intriguing and it hangs in the air  or should  as the demonstrations continue. He continued on Hannity:

The Obama Justice Department was suing police departments all over the United States for alleged violations of civil rights, browbeating them into settlements. . . They did not file here. The Obama-appointed attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri, Rich Callahan  he looked at this case and declined to prosecute.

Kinder also mentioned the local official who prosecuted the case against Jason Stockley, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner. Quoted above, Gardner in 2016 successfully sought the elected position of Circuit Attorney on a platform of identity politics emphasizing a lack of trust between the community and the police, according to an archived version of her recently-deleted Web site. In June of this year, Gardner, as the Circuit Attorney, was criticized for hiring Kathib Waheed, described by the Post-Dispatch as an activist who resigned from the St. Louis Police Board in 2001 because of a 1973 arrest for punching a police officer.

Waheed was hired March 20 as a diversion manager. The job carries a $45,000 annual salary and a 30-hour weekly workload, Gardner said in a statement. The salary is paid through a U.S. Department of Justice grant. Kansas City Police Department files show that Waheed was arrested on July 3, 1973, and charged with two counts of assaulting a police officer. At the time, Waheed was a student at Rockhurst College and was using his birth name, Robert Foxworth Jr., before converting to Islam several years later.

This may seem like a footnote to a much larger story, but its the accumulation of such data points that help us to connect the dots in a controversial story like the fatal shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith that continues to inflame many residents of St. Louis and, for that matter, people around the country and the mainstream media, as well.

Finally, able and willing now to speak on his own behalf following his acquittal, Jason Stockley gave an interview to the Post-Dispatch which made a five-minute video clip of it available on Sunday. It is well worth reading and watching  as is the Post-Dispatchs comprehensive, post-acquittal article on the entire case.

Peter Barry Chowka is a widely published author and journalist. He writes most frequently these days for American Thinker. His website is AltMedNews.net. Follow Peter on Twitter.
The American polling place. Its one of the iconic symbols of American freedom. Whether it be the local high school gymnasium, a meeting room at the public library, or a neighbors garage, the polling place is a hallowed space where citizens of all backgrounds and beliefs come together to discharge the defining privilege of a democracy  the exercise of the franchise.



How ironic, then, that in Minnesota polling places are the scene of a disturbing attack on a core liberty: your right to give voice to your personal values and convictions.



This assault on freedom of expression comes in the form of a government-decreed dress code for voters. When you show up to vote in the North Star State, you are forbidden from wearing any apparel with a design, logo, or slogan with even the slightest hint of a political connotation, even if the slogan doesnt have anything to do with a candidate or ballot measure.



Specifically, Minnesota law bans clothing with any political badge, political button, or other political insignia at polling places, on pain of criminal prosecution and civil fines up to $5,000.



Officials say this sweeping prohibition is needed for orderly elections. Yet its broad language reaches far beyond election-campaign messages such as Vote for Hilary or Vote for Trump. It has been interpreted to ban garments that merely transmit a general social or philosophical outlook. Even sporting the logos of the ACLU or NRA -- or simply a shirt with the word Liberty! -- could make you a criminal in the eyes of the State.



Minnesota resident Andy Cilek found out the hard way in 2010. When he arrived at his polling place for the general election, he was wearing two items of clothing, which, to his shock, put him on the wrong side of the law. His T-shirt displayed an image dating back to the American Revolution -- the Gadsden Flag, with its coiled snake and the warning to British forces, Dont tread on me. |



Pinned to it was a button reading, Please I.D. Me, intended to raise awareness about voting fraud -- a key issue for Cilek, but not one that was on the ballot. The average person might think Cileks choice in clothing was his own business. But a polling official informed him otherwise, and told him to remove or cover up the offending shirt and button.



A dispute ensued, and Cilek was allowed to vote only after a substantial delay. But his name was taken down for possible prosecution.



He left the polling place determined to turn the message of his T-shirt into action. The government was treading on his rights and he needed to take a stand. So he filed a federal lawsuit challenging Minnesotas polling place dress code as a violation of his constitutional freedoms.



His case rests on solid Supreme Court precedent against overbroad government limits on freedom of expression. For instance, when Los Angeles International Airport tried to ban any and all pamphleteering and advocacy activity, no matter how unobtrusive, the court, in Board of Airport Commissioners v. Jews for Jesus, struck down the restriction as going too far.



The same could be said of the open-ended Minnesota apparel ban.



Unfortunately, a federal appeals court didnt see it that way. Ruling 2-1 against Cilek, a panel of the Eighth Circuit held that Minnesotas ban on political attire is a reasonable way to protect voters from intimidation by candidates supporters.



In dissent, Judge Bobby Shepherd displayed a clearer view. He noted that the law applies to far more than overt electioneering; it could ban the insignia of nonpolitical organization like the NAACP, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and countless others -- none of which could be a source of intimidation for a reasonable voter.



Last week, Cilek filed his reply, the final document in his petition to the Supreme Court which will decide whether to take this case on September 26. The justices should accept this case and not just dress down Minnesota over its dress code for voters, but issue a ruling with national impact. Governments from coast to coast should be reminded that they may not turn polling places -- or any other public spaces -- into speech-free zones, in defiance of the First Amendments free speech guarantees.



Wen Fa is an attorney with Pacific Legal Foundation. He represents Andy Cilek in asking the Supreme Court to strike down Minnesotas restrictions on polling place attire.
North Koreas latest nuclear test has caused a significant stir in regards to Iran and the heading of this regimes nuclear program. There are those who believe the Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was a successful agreement and are suggesting a similar path vis-a-vis Pyongyang.

Others, however, believe Iran is in the same path as North Korea and the JCPOA is providing Tehran an opportunity to complete its research on nuclear weapons.

And there are also voices expressing grave concerns about Irans intentions being far more dangerous than North Korea's and considering Tehran having a nuclear bomb being gravely more lethal than Pyongyang.

Why is Irans nuclear program more dangerous than North Korea?

Nuclear weapons for Iran and North Korea are tantamount to means of maintaining their regime in power. However, the two states have adopted different strategies in seeking the bomb.

Pyongyangs posture is of defensive nature to keep its rule intact. Tehran, on the other hand, has a strategy of aggressiveness. Iran has relied on exporting its revolution and meddling in other countries, in order to safeguard its regime back home.

Therefore, Tehran needs this ultimate weapon to continue its expansion and warmongering, whereas North Koreas goal is preserving its power at home -- it doesnt have eyes set abroad.

Pyongyang has never claimed its strategic depth lies in Seoul or Tokyo. Tehran, however, officially considers Damascus its strategic depth and has dispatched a conglomerate of troops and proxy forces to fight in Syria. This very strategy makes Iran far more dangerous than North Korea.

On the other hand, Iran lies in the Middle East and such a regime becoming a nuclear power will launch a nuclear arms race amongst neighbors, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey. As a reminder, Japan and South Korea do not seek nuclear weapons and enjoy the protection of the U.S. nuclear umbrella. This is why we are not witnessing Seoul and Tokyo taking measures to pursue nuclear arms in response to Pyongyangs six nuclear detonations.

Iran, with massive oil and gas resources, enjoys enormous budgets to pursue its nuclear and ballistic missile ambitions. A lack of finances is a major dilemma for North Korea, leading to the latter selling nuclear and missile technology to the former.

Iran advancing nuclear objectives despite JCPOA

JCPOA advocates and opponents can put forward a variety of arguments regarding the nuclear deal and its role. What is obvious, however, is that the JCPOA has not only failed to halt Irans nuclear program, in fact it has provided significant support in this regard.

JCPOA advocates claim Tehran must not be further pressured or placed under new sanctions as such measures may push Tehran to abandon the deal altogether.

Tehran is the main party in need of this pact and no measures will lead to its exit. Ali Akbar Salehi, chief of Irans Atomic Energy Organization, specifically explained Tehrans viewpoint.

If the United States pulls out of the agreement, but the rest of the countries stay committed -- namely Britain, France, Germany, China, and Russia -- then Iran would most probably stick with the commitments to the agreement, he said in an interview with Germanys Der Spiegel.

Iran profiting from the JCPOA

In the JCPOA, Tehran finds an opportunity to continue its research without any major hindrance, and rest assured Iran will abandon the deal when its research leads to obtaining nuclear weapons.

The status quo is as Iran wishes, with no military sites inspected. On the other hand, by allowing inspectors into revealed sites Iran has become a country supported by the Obama administration and European states.

Crippling sanctions have been lifted and billions of dollars placed at Irans disposal. As a result, Iran is continuing its nuclear weapons ambitions and keeping a low profile in this regard.

The fact that Iran has maintained its nuclear capacity, and even improved it, has been emphasized time and again by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Atomic Energy Organization chief Ali Akbar Salehi.

Iran can enrich uranium within five days if the U.S. imposes more sanctions on Iran, Salehi warned on August 22. He claimed Iran could even achieve 20% enriched uranium in five days -- a level at which it could then quickly be processed further into weapons-grade nuclear material.

"If we make the determination, we are able to resume 20 percent-enrichment in at most five days," Salehi told state broadcaster IRIB.

A week earlier Rouhani announced that Iran could abandon its nuclear agreement with world powers "within hours" if Washington imposes any more new sanctions.

"If America wants to go back to the experience of imposing sanctions, Iran would certainly return in a short time -- not a week or a month but within hours -- to conditions more advanced than before the start of negotiations," Rouhani told a session of parliament broadcast live on state television.

Rouhani is also scheduled to deliver a speech at the UN General Assembly this upcoming Tuesday and the Iranian community in the United States has annually staged a massive rally. Rallied by the Organization of Iranian American Community, the demonstrators have each year made their voice heard how Rouhani is not their president and the Iranian regime deserves no place in the world body.

And representing the UN and the international community, the path taken by the P5+1 with Iran is somewhat similar to that of North Korea from the 1990s. Although Pyongyangs objective of obtaining nuclear weapons differs from Tehran, Kim Jong Un took advantage of the negotiations and the agreements made to buy time and produce the bomb he needed.

This mistake must not be repeated with the illusion that the JCPOA will rein in Irans nuclear ambitions. Iran has continued to strive to obtain nuclear weapons and spent hundreds of millions of dollars to procure ballistic missiles as means of delivery for its nuclear warheads.

Iran is an unstable regime with no social base and has remained in power thanks to crackdowns and exporting crises abroad. Obtaining nuclear weapons would complete its agenda of domestic crackdown and foreign crises.

To this end, viewing Irans nuclear program according to the JCPOA framework will lead to another case of the world being deceived, and the central banker of international terrorism obtaining nuclear weapons.

Therefore, a comprehensive policy is needed to restrain Iran while targeting this regimes regional meddling, holding it accountable for human rights violations, and placing all military and non-military sites under inspection.
Former President Obama has said that America is not a Christian nation. Was that far left atheism, pro-Islamic proselytizing, or just wishful thinking?

A few months ago a young second generation Iranian woman came to my office. I asked if she had Assyrian (a persecuted Christian group) heritage. She said that her parents were secular if not atheistic Muslims and made no effort to enforce any belief system on her. She said that she had decided to become a Christian. She answered my unspoken question by stating that she wanted and needed a personal God. Has she converted because of American values or Christian values? Are they the same?

Christian teaching is that God is Love and he is good all of the time. We are told that God hears everyones prayers and gives us what we need even if we cannot yet appreciate it. We have a very personal relationship with God. If we truly love God in return, we will want to follow his commandments to please him. We will not do it because we are forced to. And in Matthew 22:21 we are told that God considers the church and state to be separate. We also are reminded that man is by nature sinful, and if left without direction will tend toward evil.

Our Founders were well aware of this when they conceived of our American vision of sound government. You can see that the Bill of Rights has a Christian provenance. Our Bill of Rights actually forces the government to respect the rights of each individual. If our God sees us as individuals, then our government sure as hell had better. Our Constitution also codifies the separation of church and state. And because of the sinful nature of men, our Founders felt it necessary to deny the use of absolute power by government. Our executive, legislative, and judicial branches create checks and balances and are meant to render attempted tyranny impotent. Americanism has a very definite Christian fingerprint.

This is in contradistinction to Islam. Allah is described as all powerful, but not defined as love. Muslim scholars are also offended if you say that Allah is good all of the time. If Allah chooses to be cruel, that is his choice. He will not be confined to being just good. Allah has many rules to follow and they must be adhered to precisely to have any chance of going to Paradise. But if Allah chooses to send you to Hell (just for the hell of it), then so be it. You are required to pray five times per day, but it is not universally accepted that Allah always hears your prayers. Allah comes across as being capricious. But Allah, it is said, will send you directly to Paradise if you die for Islam, hence the suicide bombers killing the infidel. Islam means to submit. Your will, your body and your entire future are not yours. You must submit your entire being to Allah.

But Islam is more than religion in the American sense. There is no separation of mosque and state. Islam is the government and the religion. You are not allowed to question authority. You do not have a voice in changing Sharia law or what is said in the Quran or the Hadith. Islam is the original totalitarian regime.

A curious sidebar is the current cozy relationship between the radical left and the radical Islamists. They both desire all controlling totalitarian government and hate the precepts of freedom in America. Their difference is that the radical left does not believe in Allah. Their Allah is big government. They erroneously think that humans can be forced into becoming perfect (in their vision).

Now back to the original question. Is America a Christian nation? Overwhelmingly the answer is yesfor now. For more than two hundred years immigrants of many nations, ethnicities, and religions have come and assimilated quite nicely into American culture. They have not been offended by the Christian nature of our founding. I am very fond of many secular Muslim friends who enjoy the fruits of our liberty. But for fundamentalist Muslims, there is a great chasm between their culture and ours. There is total disagreement about the nature of God and government. Indeed, our way of life is anathema to them.

Many people believe that we should open our borders to anyone to come here. They say that American ideals of fairness and religious tolerance dictate the need to do this. And it is tempting to say yes, because we are a giving and generous people. But it begs the question. Should we open the floodgates to people who will not assimilate, and whose goal is to fundamentally change America (sound familiar) to a system that does not respect individual freedom, and to force Sharia law upon us. Let us hope for wisdom in Washington. It will not happen, but if the radical left were to fully embrace Allah, then God help us.
Many college kids can hardly write a proper English sentence, never mind a proper essay. Meanwhile, the essay-writing industry is huge, churning out tens of thousands of illegal documents. Naturally, all participants in the scam pretend there's no scam, and so the scam can go on.

Here's a recent, terrifying report from an editor:

My organization decided a few weeks back that we needed to hire a new professional staff person. We had close to 500 applicants. Inasmuch as the task was to help us communicate information related to the work we do, we gave each of the candidates one of the reports we published last year and asked them to produce a one-page summary. All were college graduates. Only one could produce a satisfactory summary. That person got the job.

Here is a good indication of how bad things already were 40 years ago. One investigator concluded:

If you think America's English teachers have gone "back to basics" and are solving the literacy problem everyone began shouting about in the 1970s, think again. Recent studies show that English teachers know little about the language they're supposed to teach. They get poor training in writing at college and, as a group, are bad writers.

A professor recently reported:

I am about a decade into my teaching career, but even within this fairly short span, I have noticed a startling decline in the quality of written work turned in by my students, regardless of which institution (community college, private, four year school) the papers are coming from.

So what's going on?

Even though half the incoming students are completely incompetent at the sentence level, colleges pretend it's not so. In this piece that explains why so many young Americans can't write well, Natalie Wexler states, "Colleges simply assume students already know how to write sentences." Course syllabi and textbooks all peddle the fiction that students can produce grammatical sentences at will, without crude errors like fragments, run-ons, or subject-verb disagreements. That's grotesquely untrue.

In her report, Wexler provides a weighty insight: "With the advent of e-mail, writing ability has become more important than ever, and writing deficiencies have become increasingly apparent."

It's not hyperbole to point out that the country's language skills have gotten rotten. PBS concluded:

The vast majority of public two- and four-year colleges report enrolling students  more than half a million of themwho are not ready for college-level work, a Hechinger Report investigation of 44 states has found. The numbers reveal a glaring gap in the nation's education system: A high school diploma, no matter how recently earned, doesn't guarantee that students are prepared for college courses. Higher education institutions across the country are forced to spend time, money and energy to solve this disconnect. They must determine who's not ready for college and attempt to get those students up to speed as quickly as possible, or risk losing them altogether.

Meanwhile, there is massive fraud top to bottom. The kids cheat (i.e., plagiarize) by buying essays. There seem to be hundreds of these businesses, some of them claiming to have hundreds of professional writers. Meanwhile, the college (or the individual teachers) could easily determine when students are handing in material above their abilities. The colleges don't try very hard.

If commonsense safeguards were enforced, the pool of applicants ready for college might shrink tremendously. The money would stop flowing. Some professors would no longer have careers. A lot of colleges could become ghost towns.

The sad tendency started 75 years ago, when the Education Establishment piously announced a number of stupidities: grammar isn't important, and students shouldn't worry about correct spelling. I can remember reading an article in Time 40 years ago where two professors said children would pick up language rules from their environment. Even young and dumb as I was at that moment, I sensed that these two guys were jive-ass turkeys.

Now we're probably at the point where lots of kids pay to have their admission essays written. Maybe they paid for papers in high school. And then they pay right through their college years. This might add thousands of dollars to the cost of higher education. But that's not so consequential if you're already paying $30,000 to $40,000 each year.

If you want to see some serious sophistry unfolding in front of your eyes, watch this Huffington Post liberal (one must assume) try to keep the house of cards standing:

Since academic writing is becoming one of the most prominent aspects of the educational system, the constant development of the custom-writing industry is clearly justified. ... [S]ome argue ... that the content completed by professional writers is not plagiarized. It is completely unique, well-researched and properly-referenced. When a customer buys this type of product, he has the right to use it as a source for another paper, or simply submit it as his own.

Intellectually speaking, that's Sodom and Gomorrah.

David Coleman is famous for trying to force Common Core on the public. And Common Core is famous for not teaching kids to write. According to the Washington Post, "the authors of the Common Core focused just on the skills that students should have at each grade level, not on how to impart them. And few teachers have been trained to teach these writing skills, apparently because educators believe that students will just pick them up through reading. Obviously, most don't."

Coleman, having done his dirty work for Common Core, bounced over to take control of The College Board. His first action was to sandbag "the essay requirement," the one part that might reveal how shabby things have become. In other words, he's covering up his own tracks.

The main point here is that all sectors of the Education Establishment are conspiring to sabotage reading and writing skills at all levels, while at the same time conspiring to cover up the consequences of this sabotage.

Students don't learn essential skills, and then the testing of those skills is compromised or hidden. What better way to hide poor writing skills than to allow a whole new industry to evolve, so students can hire mercenaries to do their work? Isn't that clever? Crime-wise, it's a double-helix, so slick, so sick, that even people who think they are not concerned about education might want to protest.

The starting point for all of these developments is the poor instruction of reading in the early grades. Millions of children reach middle school with only limited literacy. Naturally, their writing skills are even lower than that. Children need to be good fluent readers, then they acquire a good vocabulary, then they can move to writing an essay. If reading isn't taught properly, writing will be an impossible dream.

Bruce Deitrick Price explains education theories and methods on his site Improve-Education.org. His next book is Saving K-12, "a citizen's guide to improving public education," due Nov. 17.
For most people, even those paying attention, the seemingly endless expansion of government spending and its accompanying debt is a mystery. A timely parallel might be a tropical storm out in the middle of nowhere developing into a Cat 5 hurricane. So it is with public budgetsa modest program almost unnoticed balloons into a tax-eating monster and while we can track it, who really knows how it got that way?

Happily, the mechanics of this budget-bloating are occasionally exposed to public view and it is not a pleasant sight (here and here). Perhaps the disagreeable nature of this exposure explains why the mass media prefers fluffyou need a strong stomach to watch public officials flush millions, sometime billions, down the toilet.

A recent example of this budgets-running-wild occurred in New York City when its Department of Education announced that beginning with the current school term, all students, even rich kids in tony private schools, would receive free breakfasts and lunches. In the past only 75% of the citys school kids given family poverty were eligible. Now, however, its free eats for all, and according to Citys estimates, this would add 200,000 pupils to the total of those on the gravy train. Thats 400,000 meals a day! The average New York family would save $300 a year with the cost of the meal calculated at $1.75.

Surprisingly, this tax-funded generosity received scant attention, and nearly all upbeat. Why the silence? New Yorkers are a savvy bunch and at least somebody should have challenged a costly endeavor that only deepened dependence on government. Is it now Politically Incorrect to insist that not everyone deserves a free meal?

Public justifications of this meal program offer powerful insights into how todays welfare state soars out of control. Believe it or not, city officials side-stepped the increased tax burden by claiming that the expansion would not cost the city anything. To wit, since Uncle Sam currently pays for everybodys food if 62.5% of students receive free meals due to parental poverty, the city now can collect the funding for the additional 200,000 since the city has overall reached the 62.5% threshold. Moreover, these additional free meals did not result from actual poverty as an average person might define it, for example, a lower income. Rather, accountants discovered this poverty by scrutinized parental food stamp and Medicaid records. That is, thousands did not know that they were poor but, thanks to diligent state officials, they can now join the poverty club. (According to this logic, benefiting from multiple government entitlement justified even more programs.)

Recall the days when government congratulated itself for reducing poverty. How 1960s! More telling is how free-food money is defined as free when supplied by Washington as if New Yorkers dont pay federal taxes? Remember when the Rev. Al Sharpton was asked why todays Americans should pay reparations to descendents of slaves? His response was that people would not pay; the government would send out the checks. This mentality has now gone mainstreamDoug Turetsky, a spokesman for the citys Independent Budget Office pronounced that upping the freebies was revenue neutral. Did anybody phone Uncle Sam and tell him that he was now on the hook for additional millions?

Predictably, this financial shell game was obscured by cliche-mongering. The Chancellor of the Citys schools, Carmen Farina, announced that This is about equity and all communities matter. For Mayor Bill de Blasio who is up for re-election this year, free food was part of his Equity Agenda. He also explained that We know that students cannot learn or thrive in school if they are hungry all day, and Free school lunch will not only ensure that every kid in New York City has the fuel they need to succeed but also further our goal of providing an excellent and equitable education for all students. This is an audacious lie: the city has unsuccessfully spent billions trying to improve educational outcomes but, finally and at long last, we have the curefree food. Brilliant! No doubt, with the free food trucks on the way, race-related differences in academic achievement will soon vanish.

How giving meals to rich kids gratis promotes equity seems unclear and a better argument would be charging rich kids more would better promote fairness (how many New Yorkers can, in fact, define equity? Technically, of course, the wealthy will eventually subsidize these free meals since theyunlike the indigent--actually will pay income taxes so an honest characterization of this program is not an equity agenda but income re-distribution as in socialism but de Blasio obviously eschews that more accurate label.

What makes this supposed generosity especially stupid is that it doesnt work. Since the Healthy, Hunger-Free Act of 2010 school meals must satisfy strict nutritional standards on such things as fat and sodium and, as we all know, adolescent dont want more fruits and veggies; they want cheeseburgers. The upshot, predictably, is that fewer and fewer youngsters avail themselves of the free meals. And since these uneaten meals must go into the garbage, spending yet more on free meals only means more high-nutrition garbage (the estimated waste is $1.2 billion a year [cited here]). In fact, administrators tacitly acknowledge this extensive waste when they aver that students are provided with meals; nothing said about whats eaten.

Now, while we can all agree that Harvey and Irma victims might justifiably receive free food, why should thousands of school kids (including every school-enrolled youngster in Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Detroit) benefit from such largess? Are we in the midst of an epidemic where millions of American youngsters suffer from malnutrition or live in homes bereft of food?

The logic for taxpayer generosity is a bit more complicated and, to be blunt, dishonest. First, nobody is claiming any nutritional justification for this generosity, for example, youngsters that suffer from calcium deficiencies and thus need government-supplied milk. Nor is there any claim that parts of the U.S. now resemble Third World countries like Somalia where starvation promotes deadly diseases. But, a disease exists that allegedly adversely affects millions of youngstersshame. That is, lots of youngsters refuse free food since this would stigmatize them and thus would rather go hungry than be ridiculed. In an odd sense, being offered a free meal triggers an eating disorder whose cure is to provide free meals to every student in the school. Yesterdays war on hunger has become todays war on shame.

It does not take much to see where all this might lead given that adolescents are easily shamed. No doubt, a few dread coming to school with last years Air Jordans while others are short and fat. This campaign is totally open-ended and who knows where it will go next? This is egalitarianism on steroids to create a Utopia where nobody worries about being shamed.

To be sure, the Citys free meals program is only one of thousands of such entitlement programs and, in the grand scheme things, small potatoes. But, its operation is undoubtedly typical of many other programs that, like small tropical storms, grow into Cat 5 financial hurricanes. The pattern is a universal one: start with a modest low-cost idea (a free lunch for hungry kids); gradually expand its scope (add breakfasts); include more recipients (lower eligibility standards); insist that the costs are minimal (somebody else pays); and justify the programs existence with high-sounding verbiage (kids cant learn on empty stomachs). And then obscure it all with nice-sounding lies.

And, it seems to work--as of now, de Blasio looks like a shoe-in for re-election.
Rolling Stone magazine is going on the auction block after nearly 50 years in business.

Well, good riddance.

Once upon a time, it was an exciting magazine where one could go to learn about music and its scenes. It stopped being that around the time it started putting Bill Clinton on its covers  again and again  and became a political groupie's magazine.

Sure, the magazine put Nixon on its cover. But it wasn't in a glamorized context. They weren't trying to make Nixon one of them, as they were with Clinton.

After that, big-bucks celebrity glam, social justice journalism, and gotcha reporting became its stock in trade. Obama followed with a string of glamorous covers, and just recently, the magazine put Justin Trudeau on its cover, asking readers why he couldn't be our president instead of Donald Trump. On the social justice front, there was the magazine's phony story accusing a University of Virginia fraternity of rape and a university administrator of indifference, none of which was true, and which cost the magazine a high lawsuit payout. On the gotcha front, there was the awful article publishing off-the-record quotes by Gen. Stanley McChrystal, which cost McChrystal his job and maybe extended the Afghanistan war. The magazine wasn't really about music anymore; it was about big-bucks glitz and glorifying whatever the Washington swamp considered cool.

So sure, it's possible to argue that market forces and changing technology hit the magazine just as surely as it's hit other magazines circulation-wise. But there also was a homegrown element: alienating half its readers with its continuous forays into politics. The magazine had to have been hit hard by that, given its tendency to cling to some features on older rock musicians of publisher Jann Wenner's generation.

But some of it was self-inflicted. Instead of bringing Clinton into the fold as a rock-generation regular, Rolling Stone made itself into a second-rate political organ. How stupid it was to insult half its readers.
It's called Graham-Cassidy after Senators Lindsey Graham and Bill Cassidy, who have come up with a last-ditch effort to repeal Obamacare before a September 30 deadline. That's the last day of the current fiscal year and the last day that Senate Republicans can pass a repeal bill and avoid a filibuster. Only 50 GOP votes would be needed for passage under reconciliation rules.

Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is seriously considering bringing the bill up for a vote  but only if he can be assured of the 50 votes necessary for passage.

Politico:

Right now, support for the bill  which would replace Obamacare's tax subsidies with block grants, end the law's individual insurance mandate and scale back its Medicaid expansion  among Republican senators is short of 50 votes. But McConnell and his lieutenants will gauge support this week in private party meetings with help from President Donald Trump, administration and Capitol Hill sources said. "McConnell and his team are engaged and serious about the vote and working with the conference to build support for Graham-Cassidy," a source familiar with the bill's prospects said Sunday. The "White House is also operating with all hands on deck." White House officials began making calls last week to Republican Senate officesand plan to whip Senate votes this week, an administration official said. Supporters of the Graham-Cassidy bill have tried to keep their efforts to round up votes quiet so far, this official said, but the push is ramping up. Graham has publicly begged for Trump to help build support for the bill, and it appears to be paying off. The president asked about the Graham-Cassidy proposal in conversations this weekend in Bedminster, New Jersey, and is likely to call senators this week while he is in New York at the United Nations, the administration official said, though much of the work will be done on the senior staff level. The new activity marks a significant shift for GOP leaders after several senior Republican senators panned the bill's prospects earlier this month. But Cassidy estimates he is now just a handful of votes short of passing the bill, and other senators are beginning to press for another vote before they turn their attention to tax reform this fall. Some Republicans believe that if the bill were put on the floor Monday, it would have the support of 49 senators. "All we need is one more," Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) said of the repeal effort, which failed in July after GOP Sens. John McCain of Arizona, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted no on a slimmed-down repeal bill.

Senator Rand Paul has called Graham-Cassidy "Obamacare lite." He is absolutely correct. In truth, the bill would not "repeal" Obamacare. It would move the decimal point around a bit.

Graham-Cassidy would leave most Obamacare taxes untouched, still include the onerous coverage mandates that make premiums so expensive, do nothing to allow companies to sell policies across state lines  in short, the bill doesn't address most of the issues that make Obamacare policies so expensive.

But it is likely that both the GOP leadership and President Trump will refer to the bill as "Obamacare repeal," pronounce that campaign pledge fulfilled if it passes, and then move on to tax reform.

Unless Trump does some serious arm-twisting to conservatives in the Senate, Graham-Cassidy is likely never to see the light of day. Opposition from Republican "moderates" as well as more conservative members is likely to doom the bill to extinction.
We've had a lot of "bring down Columbus" and other symbols lately.

More than that, we just spent $500,000 to remove a Robert E. Lee statue in Dallas at the same time that the police pension is short of cash and the suburbs like Plano are getting all of the relocations from other states.

History is ugly, but it is also beautiful. The Mayflower is one of those beautiful chapters.

This week, we remember one of the most important dates in the history of the New World, the future U.S., and religious freedom.

I'm especially fond of the story because my Uncle Joaquin, my father's uncle and a successful judge, attorney, and law professor in pre-Castro Cuba, used to share it with us when were kids. He felt that it was one of the most significant moments in world history, or the day that a group of people decided to go west and find religious freedom.

It started when a group of people boarded the Mayflower in 1620:

In a difficult Atlantic crossing, the 90-foot Mayflower encountered rough seas and storms and was blown more than 500 miles off course. Along the way, the settlers formulated and signed the Mayflower Compact, an agreement that bound the signatories into a "civil body politic." Because it established constitutional law and the rule of the majority, the compact is regarded as an important precursor to American democracy. After a 66-day voyage, the ship landed on November 21 on the tip of Cape Cod at what is now Provincetown, Massachusetts.

It is such a beautiful story, especially when one remembers that half the colonists died of disease, but the group persevered and eventually celebrated what we now call "Thanksgiving."

Unfortunately, the idiots bringing down Columbus probably remember the story differently  a confirmation of their ignorance, not the validity of the story.

They'd probably say these "white people" raped the land and brought disease. Indeed, some did. They also brought the freedom that allows these clowns to take votes in city government or express themselves without the King, Montezuma, or Geronimo hanging them for treason.

Long live the Mayflower. God save the U.S. from these fools who want to rewrite history rather than talk about the lousy state of our Democrat-run inner cities or the public schools that Democrats like the Obamas do not send their kids to.

PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter.
The Dallas Independent School District School Board has taken up the issue of renaming schools named after individuals who were racists or had ties to the Confederacy or white supremacy. The people behind the push came up with a list of 21 schools that might be renamed.

Among those targeted are schools named after Thomas Jefferson, James Madison...and Benjamin Franklin.

Ben Franklin?

College Fix:

Superintendent Michael Hinojosa noted four schools were "priorities": William L. Cabell, Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee, and Albert Sidney Johnston. According to NBC-5, "[t]he board seemed to agree with starting with the four schools recommended." "I think the board, in essence, is pretty much together on this. Just, do we waive the current policy or not, and I want an expedient timeline. I'm looking at about two months," Trustee Joyce Foreman said. However, what the NBC-5 report doesn't mention is the list of recommended schools includes the names of three prominent Founding Fathers  Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Benjamin Franklin. The Daily Caller reports that DISD board member Dustin Marshall, at the behest of many of his constituents, posted on Facebook the full list of schools under consideration for new names. Marshall noted he will not support changing the name of the only school that's in his district, Ben Franklin Middle School: "I will not support a name change for Franklin since Benjamin Franklin clearly had many accomplishments that form the basis for why the school was named after him. I don't believe this school was named after Franklin to send a signal of oppression and control." For the most part, reactions to Marshall's school listing were negative: "Sam Houston?!?! William B Travis??? Now we oppose the Texas Revolution?"

Mr. Marshall must have flunked history. He forgot to mention something germane to the current debate; Benjamin Franklin founded the very first anti-slavery society in America. But he is white and hung around with slavers, so he's got to go.

What is most disturbing to me about this mad dash to bury American history is that there is no effort whatsoever to bring any kind of balanced analysis to the examination of a historical figure's fitness to be honored with a statue or school name.

Human beings are not one-dimensional. Being human, they have flaws  many of them serious. Why don't we apply the same scrutiny we are applying to the Founding Fathers to a man like Ted Kennedy, who may not have owned slaves, but treated women as property, not to mention dozens, perhaps hundreds of cases of pushing himself on women that today might be considered sexual assault? Whatever good he did as a legislator must be seen in balance with his faults.

But apparently, owning slaves or fighting for the Confederacy overrides anything else the historical figure accomplished in life. This is emotional hysteria, not any kind of intellectual exercise to determine the worthiness of the honor of naming a school after someone.

What's happening should become known as the Second Salem Witch Trials. Those who stand accused are unable to defend themselves.
Responding to a request from the Saudi government, Snapchat has blocked access for users in Saudi Arabia to the Qatari-based news outlet Al Jazeera. The move reflects the continuing tensions between the Gulf States and Qatar after diplomatic relations were broken in June because of Qatari support for Islamist terror groups and the nation's growing closeness with Iran.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt also closed their borders with Qatar and have been looking to isolate the tiny kingdom both commercially and diplomatically.

CNNTech:

The Saudi government said Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel was breaking local laws related to published material and cyber crime, according to Snap. Officials requested the removal of the channel from the app's Discover section, a Snap spokeswoman told CNNMoney on Monday. "We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," the spokeswoman said. Al Jazeera, which as a user of Snapchat is still permitted to post content that Saudis can view, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The TV network's content is also still available in Saudi Arabia on Twitter, Facebook and Google's YouTube. A spokesman for the Saudi information ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Qatar-owned news outlet has been in the crosshairs of several governments in the region during a prolonged diplomatic dispute in the Gulf. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain broke off relations with Qatar in June over its alleged support for terrorism  a charge it denies. Saudi Arabia and the UAE suspended the news channel and blocked Al Jazeera's website following the fallout. Shuttering Doha-based Al Jazeera and its affiliates was one of more than a dozen demands made by the coalition of countries  led by Saudi Arabia  for restoring diplomatic and economic ties with Qatar. The network has said demands for its closure are an attempt to restrict freedom of expression in the region.

Today, war, the "continuation of politics by other means," as Clausewitz said, is also now fought using social media as a weapon. Al Jazeera is a powerful presence in the Middle East, beaming its slanted and propagandistic coverage of the news into millions of homes. Some of the coverage of the Muslim Brotherhood government that briefly held power in Egypt was almost worshipful. Al Jazeera's anti-Semitic and anti-American bias is ridiculously obvious. But millions of Arabs are subject to this propaganda on a daily basis.

Banning Al Jazeera from Saudi Arabian Snapchat users won't affect the network's bottom line. After all, it's subsidized by the Qatari government. But just as importantly, it will lessen Al Jazeera's influence in the kingdom.

Score one for the Saudis.
Obamacare, which could have been killed off last summer, were it not for the saving vote of Sen. John McCain of Arizona, is continuing its living-death death spiral and taking its unwilling consumers down for the ride.

Insurance premiums under Obama's Affordable Care Act are set to jump 15% in 2018 according to projections from the Congressional Budget Office, as reported by the Washington Free Beacon.

The budget office projects that average premiums will total $3,400 for a 21 year old, $4,800 for a 45 year old, and $9,800 for a 64 year old this year.

Market uncertainty is rampant among insurers, fearful that $705 billion in subsidies for buyers may not be replenished by Congress and that either Obamacare's buyers or else they themselves will have to eat that cost.

Meanwhile, the CBO projects that two million consumers will be knocked out of the market by the 15% higher cost, leaving the remaining consumers to pick up the tab  meaning that another price hike should be well in the works.

At the same time as this spiraling cost nightmare is going on, the Free Beacon reports that 63 counties next year are projected to have no Obamacare provider  all of the insurers have "gone Galt" and pulled out due to skyrocketing costs and the inability to cover them. Another 1,472 counties are projected to have just one provider, so take it or leave it. Those recipients, incredibly, must still pay the fine even if there is no coverage to buy, despite talk in Congress of exempting them from that.

Can a system this bad be stopped? Sure, the way a car crash is stopped, through momentum. Eventually, it will just stop. Price hikes and uncovered counties can go on only so long until the whole system fails. Such a path takes a lot of people down with it before the wheels finally stop spinning.

The other option was in front of us last summer  when the Senate voted to get rid of Obamacare and allow the free markets some sort of room to breathe. That was stopped, by a handful of GOP senators, the final deciding vote being cast by McCain, who, despite campaigning to get rid of the nightmare, would do anything to prevent President Trump from achieving any of his agenda.

Now the consequences of that are here in the rising costs and uncovered counties. McCain can stand up and take a bow, because he owns it.
Donald Trump travels to the U.N. on Tuesday to address the General Assembly. His speech will touch familiar themes, including condemnation of North Korea, Iran, and perhaps even Russia. He will also try to reassure delegates that he believes in an international system but will criticize the U.N. for its timidity on North Korea and its mismanagement and almost certainly urge other countries to do more to fund the organization. The U.S. is currently responsible for about 60% of U.N. funding, and Trump will lecture the delegates about failing to pay their fair share.

In short, there will probably not be anything too surprising in Trump's speech. But he might want to thank U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley for boosting U.S. interests so effectively at the world body. Haley's plainspoken, sometimes blunt rhetoric has been a refreshing change from the mealy-mouthed utterings of her predecessor, Samantha Power.

Reuters:

Twice in five weeks she persuaded the 15-member U.N. Security Council to unanimously boost sanctions on North Korea. Her blunt language has raised eyebrows among diplomats. At the same time she has been careful not to steal the limelight from Trump, a wealthy businessman and former reality television star. "I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with the U.S. being very strong in the end," Haley told White House reporters on Friday. European Council on Foreign Relations U.N. expert Richard Gowan said Haley's success could make Trump nervous and that it would be a "bad deal for her" if she was asked to replace Tillerson as secretary of state. "She would lose the independence she enjoys in New York and (it would) tie her more closely to the president's agenda. But it is an offer that she could not refuse. It's an irony that the one way Trump can hurt Haley is to promote her," he said. Haley credits Trump with any U.S. achievements at the United Nations. After the Security Council toughened sanctions on North Korea this month, she praised his "strong relationship" with his Chinese counterpart for the result. When he dismissed the Sept. 11 U.N. resolution, which had been weakened by China and Russia, as "just another very small step, not a big deal," Haley jumped to his defense and dismissed any suggestion they were not on the same page. "If we have to go further, this is going to look small compared to what we do," she said at the time. Haley has made her mark also by fighting what she describes as U.N. anti-Israel bias, pushing for U.N. reform amid Trump's call to slash U.S. funding, accusing Iran of meddling in the Middle East and challenging Russia over Ukraine and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that during a National Security Council meeting on Iran this month, Trump specifically asked Haley's opinion about what strategy to pursue. "She gave her opinion, and he liked her point of view," the official said. "She wasn't afraid to speak up."

Haley must be careful not to get too far out ahead of the president. Donald Trump is not the kind of man who will sit still for being upstaged. In fact, recent positive press about Haley might lead to some tension between the two.

But Haley appears to have a strong rapport with the president, and they look as though they're on the same page when it comes to vital issues facing U.S. foreign policy. That relationship has translated into effective leadership at the U.N. by Haley.

Talk of Haley running for president is premature. But you can bet that if the opportunity to run presented itself, she would be reluctant to turn it down.
More violence erupted in St. Louis during the third day of protests over the acquittal of a former officer who shot a drug dealer.

The massive police presence failed to deter the violence, but last night, cops decided to let the protesters know who was in charge.

Police just chanted "Whose Streets, our streets" on Tucker Blvd after making arrests  David Carson (@PDPJ) September 18, 2017

I spoke with the commander at the scene, he said he did not hear the chant, but said chant was not acceptable, said he would deal with it.  David Carson (@PDPJ) September 18, 2017

Protesters who use that same chant are delusional. The streets belong to everyone, and the cops are there to make sure of that.

Buried between the lines of this AP story is an interesting fact: there were about as many "peaceful" protesters as there were rioters.

I wonder how many belonged to both groups?

The recent St. Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes. Protest organizer Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out: While change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression has caused some to turn violent. "I do not say the (violent) demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best," Bell said. State Rep. Bruce Franks, a Democrat who has participated in the peaceful protests, said those behind the violence "are not protesters."

I'm willing to bet that some are. They march with the "peaceful" group during the day and then return at night under cover of darkness to carry out the vandalism and attacks on police. They are not a "subsection" in that they are not all different people.

The mindset of the protest organizer, Mr. Bell, is extremely revealing. He believes that both peaceful protests and violent activism are necessary to fight "oppression." Nothing would please him more than the cops reacting to violent protesters by sending a few to the hospital. So far, the police have shown admirable restraint and acted professionally.

Sending a message to the rioters that the police control the streets is perfectly acceptable, in my opinion, since so much of what happens in these confrontations is psychological. Letting protesters know whose streets they are busting up might even save the lives of both police and rioters.
L-R: Comm. of Mass. Dept of Conservation and Recreation Leo Roy, Don Henley, Mass. Sec. of Energy and Environment Affairs Matthew Beaton (Credit: Scot Miller)Back in 1990, The Eagles' Don Henley founded the Walden Woods Project to preserve the works of author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau and Walden Pond, which inspired his most famous work. That's why he traveled to Massachusetts last week to unveil some new exhibits at the Walden Pond State Reservation Visitor Center.

Among the educational exhibits Don introduced during a public ceremony on Thursday was an 18-minute movie, executive produced by Ken Burns, about Thoreau's life and legacy. Another exhibit, "Where's Your Walden," asks visitors to share a place in the world that's as special to them as Walden Pond was to Thoreau.

At the event -- which marked the 200th anniversary of Thoreau's birth -- Don told the audience, "Thoreau was a keen observer of the natural world. His writings provide insights into some of the most urgent issues of our time...understanding and protecting the biological diversity of life; living on a planet of limited resources; and the role of personal responsibility in today's world."

He added that he hoped that visitors to Walden would be leave the place "inspired and ready to engage in the environmental and societal challenges of our times."

Henley was deeply influenced by Thoreau's writings in college. Over the years, he's staged benefit concerts, featuring big names like Sting, Elton John and Neil Young, to fund the Walden Woods Project. He also donated some of the proceeds from the Eagles' Hell Freezes Over album and tour to the cause.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
After Parsons Green, sympathy for the bombers

Is THIS the Tube bucket bomber? (Daily Star). Or to put it another way, ON HIS WAY TO BOMB TUBE? (The Sun). Or Is this the Bucket Bombed On Way To Tube? (Daily Express). To which the answer is Dunno, is it?

All that cash once earmarked for pre-Leveson shag n tells could to be used to investigate jihadis in our midst. But the big-budget tabloids are content with playing catch-up. So around a grainy photo of a figure dressed in a grey tracksuit carrying a Lidl shopping bag in Sunbury-on-Thames, we get to wonder if hes the one who placed a bomb at Parsons Green station. And, of course, we dont know what to make of the video caught on a homeowners CCTV. We also dont know why a homeowner in leafy Surrey is filming the street. Is it a dangerous area?

The Express has more on the attack over pages 4 and 5. Two men have been arrested. One arrived in the UK when he was 15, having fled Iraq. He was fostered by Penelope Jones and Ronald Jones. The other man is 21. Hes an Iraqi refugee also once cared for by the Joneses. The couples neighbour says the lad wanted to leave home. Well, job done. Another neighbour says the 18-year-old seemed a really nice chap. But he seemed to be up at unusual hours. In the Mail, however, hes a tearaway who was held by police just two weeks ago at Parsons Green station. The Mirror hears him called out of control.

In other news, the terror threat has been reduced from critical to severe. Just two weeks ago, it was at Armageddon, what with North Korean threats and Hurricane Irma. We live in hyperbolic times.

Think Of The Children

In the Sun, we get to know the name of the 21-year-old suspect. Hes Yahyah Farroukhm who was pinched at Aladdins [sic] Fried Chicken in Hounslow, West London, not far from his home in Stanwell, which is within inhaling distance of Heathrow Airport. At the time of his arrest, Farroukh was carrying a Kitkat and a drink can, which he dropped. The Mail says he has posted about his passion for smoking weed and anti-Israel images. But if those interests mark your out as a jihadi, then so much the worst for snowflake students and the hard-Left, although neither of those groups would be seen dead with a high-sugar KitKat.

Only in the Mail do we see the story couched as an asylum issue. Council struggle to cope with influx of thousands of troubled teenagers says the paper. It counts them all: a staggering 4,2010 asylum-seeking juveniles in council care across Britain. The Mail says this is not to say they are all nutcases, just to highlight how many vulnerable children could fall prey to radicalisation.

A few words from some loon on the internet, and the normal, caring lad morphs into a mass murderer. Well, so goes the narrative. What it misses, of course, is the bit about what draws people towards radical and violent Islam? Why do they think its a worthy cause?

Frank Furedi:

Policymakers and the media continually refer to young Muslims as vulnerable to radicalisation. The term vulnerability suggests passivity, powerlessness and gullibility. It suggests, in short, that those called vulnerable lack the intellectual resources necessary to cope with challenges. No doubt there are some weak and confused individuals drawn towards the jihadist subculture. But the reality is that most people who travel to Syria, for example, do so because they are inspired by a cause they believe is worth fighting for. Often such individuals show a capacity for planning, dissimulation, inventiveness and, above all, initiative. The idea of vulnerability invokes individual characteristics that are often the very opposite to those actually possessed by people making the risky voyage to the Middle East. Contrary to the myth of vulnerability, these young people are  albeit misguidedly  attempting to exercise a measure of agency over their life.

If the would-be killer is so vulnerable  groomed by sick adults  is he recast from perpetrator to victim? Its not terrorism. Its child abuse. And how can the vulnerable be protected? The Mail says we should clamp down on Google and all that easy-to-reach knowledge. Yvette Cooper, the Labour MP, agrees. The internet giants have made it much harder for people to find child abuse images online, she says. Its time they showed the same commitment to tackling terrorism. See images of child rape and become a paedophile, goes the thinking? See instructions on bomb making and blow up the London Underground. To see is to download and do.

The terrorists will never win, comes the declaration. But if their aim is to reduce our hard-won freedoms and make us distrustful of adults, then the enemy is having some success.

Anorak

Posted: 18th, September 2017 | In: Key Posts, News, Reviews, Tabloids Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
PALERMO - The Festival of Migrant Literature returns to Palermo for its third edition from October 4-8 under the direction of journalist Davide Camarrone.

Some 150 guests are expected to attend the festival that this year focuses on intercultural dialogue, contamination and the migratory nature of literature itself. The programme includes 100 events in over 15 locations around the Sicilian regional capital. On October 3, the day before the official opening, Palermo Mayor Leoluca Orlando will formally rename the road running along the ancient port of La Cala "Lungomare delle migrazioni".

The ceremony marks the 4th anniversary of the Lampedusa migrant shipwreck in which hundreds died, and which prompted the government of Enrico Letta to launch the vast search and rescue operation Mare Nostrum that was subsequently replaced by the EU border agency Frontex's more limited mission Triton. The festival puts at the centre "mobility as a right and dialogue between different faiths  because those who arrive in Palermo are Palermitan," Orlando said.

"Palermo is a city of cultural intersection where fear does not have citizenship," Camarrone added.
MOSCOW - Russia has denied carrying out an air strike in Syria against a rebel group belonging to the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) backed by the United states. On Saturday the SDF accused Moscow of striking its fighters near the city of Deir er-zor, in an area recently liberated from ISIS. On Sunday Russian defence ministry spokesman General Igor Konashenkov rejected the charges.
BEIRUT - Syrian government forces have crossed the Euphrates towards the east, near Dayr az Zor, the last urban stronghold of ISIS in the Middle East, according to Syrian State television. The broadcaster showed footage of Syrian soldiers crossing the Euphrates in the area of Mazlum. The objective pursued by Damascus and its Russian and Iranian allies is to surround ISIS positions in the eastern part of Dayr az Zor, which has been held by jihadists since 2014. Syrian troops had succeeded over the past few days in breaking the siege of part of Dayr az Zor, surrounded for the past three years by ISIS, which had also been besieging for a long time the international airport. Both areas are now reportedly under government control that has expanded over the past hours to the south-eastern bank of the city. Kurdish-Syrian troops supported by the United States have also reached the outskirts of Dayr az Zor from the north. Only a few kilometers now separate Kurdish and government troops from the ISIS stronghold.
PALERMO - Migrants and refugees must "not be discriminated against on the basis of their skin colour or religion", the Dalai Lama has told journalists in Palermo.

"They are the object of the exercise of our compassion," the spiritual leader added. "From the outset of the crisis we should have thought of migrants as brothers and sisters who are facing huge problems and give them refuge," he continued. "We must take them in. The host countries should offer education for the children, while older people should be given technological training so they are able to return, with ongoing support from the countries that took them in," the Dalai Lama said.
- MADRID - Madrid on Monday intended to gain control of Catalonia's finances after a 48-hour ultimatum launched Friday expired amid escalating institutional tension over a referendum on the region's autonomy scheduled on October 1.



Spanish Finance Minister Cristobal Montoro announced that the central government would strip the Catalan cabinet of its financial authority to prevent ''even one euro'' from going to the organization of the election which has been declared ''illegal'' by Madrid.



Spanish prosecutors meanwhile have summoned for questioning as people ''under investigation'' the first among the 712 Catalan mayors denounced last week for backing the referendum.



Prosecutors have stated that mayors who will not show up for questioning will be arrested.



Meanwhile the Psoe, Spain's leading opposition party, has lifted a veto on the implementation by conservative Premier Mariano Rajoy of art. 155 of the Constitution that enables, among other things, to suspend the autonomy of Catalonia and its president Carles Puigdemont to prevent the referendum, the online edition of El Pais reports.



Article 155 is considered a key 'weapon' Rajoy can use to stop the Catalan government from organizing the referendum. The leader of Podemos Pablo Iglesias accused the Spanish government of taking an authoritarian stance towards Catalonia, limiting its civil and political rights. According to Iglesias, ''democratic cohabitation'' is under threat. Podemos is the only one of four large parties in Spain supporting the referendum.



The Psoe and Ciudadanos are backing Rajoy's hard line from the opposition.



(ANSAmed).
ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean

(ANSAmed) - ROME, SEPTEMBER 18 - These are some of the main events scheduled for tomorrow the Euro-Mediterranean area: DUBAI - Speciality Food Festival, one of the most important promotional platforms dedicated to the food and farming sector, continues (until 20/9). ISTANBUL - The 15th Biennial continues with expositions, symposiums, and workshops (until 12/11).



BELGRADE - Yugoslav Film Archive - Festival of Italian Film continues (until 24/9).



TUNIS - Visit by a delegation of the EU Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Commission (until 22/9).



PARIS - 2nd Biennial of Photography in the Contemporary Arab World continues (until 12/11). ROME - Confindustria headquarters - Press conference to present Italia Africa Business Week. (ANSAmed).




The Spanish government continues to expend energy on losing Catalonia and ensuring the situation has international repercussions in terms of its effect on economic stability, the quality of Spains democracy, the right to decide, and the freedom of expression and conscience. Rajoy is prepared to lose Catalonia as if it were just another colony.

Despite the intensity of political scorn in response to calls for reform or improved self-government these last five years, now Spain is acting surprised and indignant, unable to hold talks. The degree of surprise shown by the Spanish government is astonishing, after so many years of sparring and so many years of seeing how a majority in favour of a referendum and the pro-independence cause have steadily grown. After Operation Catalonia the Interior Ministrys dirty war, and Soraya Saenz de Santamaria and Enric Millos vapid Operation Dialogue, comes Operation Confusion and Operation General Case [1]. Spain assumed that the Catalan government would implode, along with its parliamentary ties with the CUP [the left-wing, anti-capitalist, pro-independence coalition]. The surprise for many has been the strength of the pact formed in the Palace of the Generalitat [home to the offices of the presidency of the Catalan government], in which Puigdemont and Junqueras unequivocally assumed the consequences of pursuing a "referendum at any cost". The final piece in the jigsaw was overcoming the crisis within the ranks of the ruling PDECat party. The self-confidence shown by deputy PM Santamaria, who hoped that moderates within the JxSi coalition would lead to a stalemate, while hinting at the need for a change in interlocutors, was ultimately insufficient. The PP has outsourced political responsibility via the rulings made by the judiciary. The democratic outrage has now reached a point where the number of those involved and their crimes can be counted in the thousands: they are even threatening members of the public who wish to cast their vote in a referendum that is illegal under the Spanish law, but which has been approved by the Parliament of Catalonia. It is another General Case [1]. The Spanish state is determined to stop the referendum from going ahead. However, the date is drawing getting closer and closer. Rajoy has cheered the absurd confiscation of election posters by the Guardia Civil, while the pro-referendum campaign by the Catalan government and grassroots groups continues to go viral on social media, thanks to messages tailored to each new development. The seizure of a bucket and a broom may well become the symbol of the current period in which everyone is perfectly aware that a referendum is being held on 1-O [1 October]: the referendum on independence and the campaign are unstoppable, as are ideas. Traditional methods arent necessary.

What they dont want to happen (or perhaps they do)

Rajoy talks about unforeseen consequences that might force him to take actions he would rather avoid. He is right that the consequences of the current situation are unpredictable, especially for him. It is his inability to treat Catalonia as a partner rather than as a subject that has led to the growth of such a broad, diverse social majority in favour of independence. Repression will lead wherever it leads, and he mustnt hold others accountable for his own political shortcomings.

In practice, Rajoy is headed straight for the suspension of Catalan self-government, in the belief that the deconstruction of Spains autonomic system that is underway can be undone. After years of economic asphyxiation, of the imposition of strict deficit targets which stretched the country's public services to the limit during a brutal financial crisis, and an unjust and out-dated financing system, Spains Finance Minister, Cristobal Montoro is using the exceptional nature of the measures taken back then as a means to take full control over the Catalan governments finances at a time of economic recovery. Financial autonomy is over. Montoro intends to control the payment of government employees and expenditure by confiscating the advances made under the current financing system. The Catalan government will only have control over its own taxes or monies ceded to it, the only ones it collects directly. Yet another fundamental reason to argue in favour of the Catalan peoples taxes being managed directly. This measure is a humiliation for one of Spains main workhorses and its major exporter. It represents an abuse of power that will have internal consequences and which may well have external consequences, since Catalonia is a crucial economic actor for Spain, which in turn is crucial to the equilibrium within the European Union.

The new pact

One of the main achievements of the independence movement has been the support of more than 750 mayors for the referendum and the position adopted by Barcelonas mayor, Ada Colau. Although the exact nature of the agreement between the president and Colau remains unclear, yesterday's photo op showing the mayor embracing the leaders of the movement once more centres the democratic, majority narrative on sovereignty. On the other side, the coercive force of a state that is looking for posters and ballot papers to prevent a specific event from taking place on 1 October, while failing to comprehend that ultimately, whatever happens, Spain has lost Catalonia. This is shown by the opinion poll that we will publish today and tomorrow. 70% of Catalans want a referendum and 52% support it, in spite of opposition from Spain. The Yes vote is gaining ground, while for the vast majority the Constitution is dead.

Today Spains excesses with respect to Catalonias democratic determination make the desire to vote greater than ever. We are not only witnessing a struggle for national rights, but a fight for fundamental and individual rights.

__________

Translators notes:

[1]. a reference to the Causa General, a lengthy investigation carried out during the Franco era with the objective of cataloguing and punishing Republican crimes.
Pilots can create and file flight plans for easy reference, calculate and compare aircraft cruise modes to increase performance, and access real-time weather updates to ensure the aircraft arrives at the destination on time. GoDirect Flight Bag Pro is available via an iPad app, and versions for other tablets are in development.

This pilot-designed and pilot-approved technology simplifies flight planning and provides access to important flight information anytime, said Kiah Erlich, director, Flight Services, Honeywell Aerospace, and a pilot herself. With real-time information made possible by in-flight connectivity, pilots using GoDirect Flight Bag Pro on a Connected Aircraft can stay informed of the best routes and weather conditions to get to their destinations safely and on time.

GoDirect Flight Bag Pros simple, intuitive interface works on both domestic and international flights. For access to the app, pilots only need an annual subscription to GoDirect Flight Services and an active Honeywell account.

I just ran my first flight plan and its a huge improvement over the last app, said Justin Stimpson, a captain and aviation safety officer at RJL Aviation, which was a beta trial customer of Flight Bag Pro. Now I can make adjustments to the flight plan with fewer steps after its been filed, and it makes for a better operational experience with the constantly changing schedules that can be associated with corporate aviation.

Flight Bag Pro, available to GoDirect Flight Services customers, is part of Honeywells GoDirect family  the industrys most complete portfolio of more than 50 value-adding aviation services and applications that provide operators, flight crews and maintenance teams with critical information to control their services and network. Honeywell has a broad range of flight planning services, including GoDirect Flight Sentinel, which helps bring those apps and services together by serving as a flight departments premier partner, providing a range of proactive services that enhance safety and save time and money, all while improving flight efficienc

Top Pilot Benefits of GoDirect Flight Bag Pro:

 Flight Plan Overview: To view an upcoming flight route, pilots can type in or paste a route from a website, email or text message into the app. Pilots can also view frequently cleared and optimized routes for best aircraft performance. With in-flight connectivity, pilots can even make adjustments while in the air.

 Flight Bag Pro Performance Calculator: Calculate multiple cruise modes and determine the most efficient flight by comparing speed, flight level, time, fuel, cost of the trip and more.

 Trip Kit: Package all of the trip documents into a Trip Kit to view during flight. Access the latest weather information for your destination such as icing, winds and temperature, even prior to takeoff.

 Flight Schedule Updates: Pilots can receive real-time updates to flight schedules when information is released from air traffic control with a pre-departure clearance, when filing status changes, or when weather conditions change.
MBRSC Science Event is a scientific and educational initiative for the education, science and technology sectors in the country. It aims to develop national capacities in space science, technology and research by creating a platform that brings together students, experts and decision-makers in the country together to present and explain the UAE's directions for these sectors. The Event will also offer scientific and technological workshops, awareness activities to nurture a culture of research and development for future generations, reflecting the UAE's strategic objectives for the sector and building a generation of scientists and specialists. The event targets individuals of all ages, university and school students, teachers, professors, researchers and people who are interested in science and space.

The event host ministers and high-level speakers from the UAE, who will present their vision for the future of the UAE in its transformation journey towards the knowledge economy, in-line with its ambitious plans and strategies. Speakers will shed-light on the country's excellence and leadership experience in creating knowledge, science, economy and education. In addition to that, scientists and researchers in space missions, space science and engineering experts will present and discuss the results of their research.

MBRSC Science Event will also include a number of sub-events and activities, including the 3rd Annual EMM Science Workshop, the second edition of Explore Mars Competition, and workshops for "Teachers Ambassadors" program. The Center will also organize interactive scientific activities, various workshops about space, discussion sessions and lectures for scientists and specialists in Mars science, space and satellite industry.

Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, praised the gracious auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, stressing the Centres continuous efforts to create opportunities to build national capacity and enable it to rise to the highest levels of technical innovation and scientific research in space, science and advanced technology."

Al Shaibani added: "MBRSC Science event is a platform that aims to bring together researchers, scientists, specialists and officials with different fields of the society, young and old, specialists and non-specialists, to raise awareness about space and science. It is an ideal opportunity to benefit the international research expertise in space and transfer it to the scientific community and prominent researchers in the country."

He emphasised on the importance of establishing scientific, research and educational culture in line with the UAEs ambitions for the coming decades, reflecting the strategic vision of the scientific, knowledge and technological development. The Centre's strategy and plans are focused on developing all aspects of science creation, and increasing knowledge production in science, space and advanced technology. This will be achieved through active participation in building an integrated system that fosters passion and innovation in these areas".
The aircraft landed on Sunday at 8:20 am on its regular flight (JO 6888) from Amman to Aqaba and will continue to Dubai. All 126 passengers and crew on board disembarked normally, on the air stairs.

A minor damage was recorded on the external structure of the aircraft while it was skidding off the runway. Royal Wings provided hotel accommodation in Aqaba for all the passengers who were onboard while waiting for another airplane to arrive and carry them from Aqaba to Dubai.
I wish I could be there when the European Beat Studies Network meets in Paris on Wednesday. Douglas Field (University of Manchester) will give a presentation about Harold Norses Cosmographs. I remember seeing them on the wall of Norses room at the Beat Hotel more than 50 years ago. As Ive written in My Adventures in Fugitive Literature and in a new edition of The Z Collection, to be published by Blue Wind Press, Norse was very proud of them. They had been exhibited with a commentary by William Burroughs, which was not only effusive, as Field says, but also essential. Norse recalls in his Memoirs of a Bastard Angel that he had begun painting at the suggestion of a friend and patron, Julia Laurin, and that Burroughs had taken him up even before he was installed in the dingy lodgings at 9, rue Git-le-Coeur, where Burroughs was already living:

I threw colored Pelican inks at random on Bristol paper and washed them off in the bidet with startling results: a series of map-like drawings of outer and inner space in the most vivid colors and minutely precise details, as if they had been meticulously drawn by a master hand. Yet my hand never touched them. I allowed everything to happen, letting the laws of chance take over, acting as a medium through whom these colors, shapes, and designs could flow, dictated by whatever forces reside in the unconscious. with the feeling that I was charting new territory in the visual arts I worked compulsively, calling the results Cosmographscosmic writings. I was no draftsman, but I was an artist.

The ink drawings of Harold Norse are charged with a special intensity of messages from unexplored areas spelled out in color. These are maps of psychic areas, that is to say they have a definite function. Art for its own sake is no longer a tenable position. The artist is a map maker and his work is valid in so far as his maps are accurate. Poetry is a place. The drawings of Norse map a place. And anyone can go there who will make the necessary travel arrangements. Poetry is for everyone. Painting is for everyone.

Burroughss response to Norses experiments is instructive. A year after he first saw them this is what he wrote in his introduction to the show, which opened in March 1961 at the Libraire Anglaise (the English Bookshop, 42, rue de Seine):

Burroughs was not the only one impressed by the cosmographs. In his 1989 memoir, in a chapter titled The Bidet School of Art, Norse quotes a laudatory review of the show by John Ashbery. It appeared in the Paris edition of the New York Herald-Tribune on March 22, 1961. Painting with color inks on wet paper, Ashbery wrote, Norse produces fantastic webs, maps or labyrinths, and strange combinations of iridescent color.

What I find more interesting is that, according to the memoir, Ashbery told him that his drawings

had inspired him to begin painting, which he had always wanted to do. When I said that like my cut-up fiction and poetry it was based on aleatory techniques, he exclaimed, Ive been doing it for years! I pore through the dictionary, books, and magazines, pick out words at random, and string them together. He scoffed at the newness of the technique when I told him what we were doing at the hotel. Tzara did it forty years ago, he sniffed. I did it in my teens and twenties, I said, using the dictionary, but destroyed it. It certainly works in your painting, he said.

The show was an artistic, social, and financial success. Le tout Paris  the most exclusive, snobbish, aristocratic clique in Paris  attended. Among those impressed was Henri Michaux. Tres brien, vraiment, mais il faut aller plus loin, plus loin! he said cryptically. James Jones and Mme. Laurin were at the vernissage, as well as distinguished painters, some of whom made appreciative noises, while others remained aloof. Julia bought a drawing and Jones bought two. When Allen Ginsberg arrived at the end of March, Peter Orlovsky, with a long face, said, I must tell you, we dont like it. They didnt like cut-ups either. Though at first [Gregory] Corso participated in the cut-up technique, he and Allen felt threatened by the random use of language. Their identity as poets was at stake. (Its interesting that Ashbery, who later achieved the pinnacle of poetic success, did so precisely with the random means they feared and rejected.) You cant please everybody, muttered Burroughs with lofty indifference.

I havent checked the accuracy of Norses memoir. But I believe from my own experience with him that the fascinating details he offers are probably true, although his well-nursed grievance that hed been overlooked by literary critics and Beat chroniclers might have led him to exaggerate. Regardless, his stylishly written memoir is filled with revealing gossip, insight, information, and sometimes a leavening sense of humor. He writes:

Norse continues:

Stoned on hashish, like most of the others, I lost control when a Dutch painter, Guy Harloff, mad with envy that I, a poet, had a show when for years he had tried without success to have one, threatened me. He was six foot seven and I five foot four, but when he insulted me  I pinned him to the wall with my arm on his throat. His eyes bugged out and he would have suffocated had Norman Rubington, an American painter and writer, not intervened. Years later in Athens I heard that a new group of painters in Paris, calling themselves Cosmographers, had founded a school based on my method. I immediately christened it Bidet Art. After all, as an innovator Id have been ungrateful not to mention the part played in the creation of my drawings by this toilet appliance, which possessed the symbolic significance that the urinal had for Marcel Duchamp; furthermore, the bidet had produced cosmic effects  thereby affirming in art the function of objects despised because of stupid moral prejudices. I proved that if Alice could enter the fourth dimension through the looking glass, I could do so through the bidet.

As the Brits say, brilliant.
Company has started pre-bookings for updated BS-IV variant of motorcycle now priced at Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Royal Enfield, the Chennai-based two-wheeler maker, has relaunched the Himalayan adventure tourer motorcycle in the country at Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Earlier, the motorcycle was discontinued owing to its non-compliance with the BS-IV norms. The bike now incurs Rs 5,000 more compared to its previous model. To book the new Himalayan, the buyer had to make an upfront payment of Rs 5,000. However, the waiting period of the bike has already shot to two to three months. The new Royal Enfield Himalayan is available in two paint choices  Snow and Granite.

Initially, the Himalayan had left a very positive experience among customers and journalist alike. However, the bike owners soon started facing major issues related to the quality and performance of the motorcycle. A couple of months ago, Royal Enfield suspended the sales of the adventure tourer as it did not comply with the strict BS-IV norms implemented by the government in April. The addition of a fuel-injection system has now made it BS-IV compliant and we can only hope that Royal Enfield has rectified all the issues that plagued the older version.

The bike is now powered by a fuel-injected, single-cylinder 411cc engine. It produces 24.8PS of power and 32Nm of torque at 4250rpm via a 5-speed gearbox. The new BS-IV compliant engine promises to offer better throttle response and fuel efficiency. The Himalayan remains the most affordable adventure tourer motorcycle on sale and its closest competitors include the Bajaj Dominar 400 and the Mahindra Mojo.

Source: ZigWheels.com
The AAI will also develop a new civil enclave at Allahabad ahead of the 'Ardh Kumbh Mela'.

AAI plans to invest Rs 1,530 crore in the development work of the existing airports in Lucknow and Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh and Deoghar in Jharkhand. (Representational Image)

Mumbai: National airports operator AAI plans to invest Rs 1,530 crore in the development work of the existing airports in Lucknow and Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh and Deoghar in Jharkhand to cater to the growing air traffic demand.

Besides, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will also develop a greenfield airport at Hirasar in the Rajkot district of Gujarat on build, operate and maintain basis.

According to a statement today, the AAI plans to construct new integrated passenger terminal building at Lucknow's Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport at an estimated cost of Rs 1,230 crore, which has seen significant traffic growth in the last five years.

Once completed, the new terminal building will have a capacity of 6.35 million passengers per annum and will be able to handle 4,000 passengers during the peak hour, the AAI said.

The AAI will also develop a new civil enclave at Allahabad ahead of the 'Ardh Kumbh Mela,' to be held in January 2019, at an estimated cost of 125.76 crore.

The new terminal building will be made operational before January 2019, it said.

AAI said it also plans to develop the present Deoghar airport for carrying out operations of Airbus 320 and four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft C-130 types at an investment of Rs 401.34 crore at a fixed-cost and at Rs 427.43 crore on completion cost basis.

The Deoghar airport development work will be carried out in line with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the AAI, Jharkhand government and DRDO in March this year, it said.

As per the MOU, there will be financial input to the tune of Rs 50 crore by the Jharkhand government, Rs 200 crore by the DRDO and the balance cost will be borne by the AAI.

For the greenfield airport at Hirasar in Rajkot, Gujarat government has provided the land free of cost.

The construction of the greenfield airport is aimed at matching with the traffic potential of Saurashtra region, amid the high economic growth, the AAI said.
The popular Malayalam actor's bail has been rejected once again by the Angamali magistrate court on Monday.

Kochi: It seems there is more trouble in store for beleaguered Malayalam actor Dileep in the assault and abduction of a South actress.

The Angamali magistrate court on Monday rejected the bail plea of Malayalam actor Dileep in the alleged assault and abduction case of a popular south actress earlier this year.

Previously, his bail plea has been rejected three times by the court, following his arrest in the case in July.

The decision comes after the court had reserved its orders on his plea and extended the actors custody till September 28.

Dileeps wife, actress Kavya Madhavan had also filed an anticipatory bail application in the court, amid reports that she will also be arrested for investigation in the case.

Dileep is accused of conspiracy in the abduction and alleged sexual assault of a prominent South actress in a car on February 17.
The national flag will fly at half-mast at all government buildings in Delhi in the honour of the veteran.

The last rites of Singh, who died after a cardiac arrest at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital, would be performed at Brar Square in Delhi at 10:00 am. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

New Delhi: Indian Air Force (IAF), Arjan Singh was given full state honours in New Delhi on Monday.

(Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Arjan Singh, Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF), died on Saturday at the age of 98.

The last rites of Singh, who died after a cardiac arrest at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital, was performed at Brar Square in the national capital.

17-gun salute was given as a part of full state honour and flypast was given to offer tributes to Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh at Delhi's Brar Square.

17-gun salute was given to Marshal of Air Force, Arjan Singh (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Flypast held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force. (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman paid her tributes to Marshal of IAF, Arjan Singh.

(Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Senior BJP leader LK Advani, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa and Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba also paid their tributes to Marshal of Air Force.

The national flag will fly at half-mast at all government buildings in Delhi on Monday in the honour of the veteran.

Wrapped in the tri-color, Arjan Singh's body was brought to the Delhi Cantonment from his residence in a gun carriage decorated with flowers - a journey of 8 km.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited his home on Sunday and extended condolences to his family.

President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted, "Sad at demise of a great air warrior & Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh. Condolences to his family & IAF community."

Sad at demise of a great air warrior & Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh. Condolences to his family & IAF community 1/2 #PresidentKovind pic.twitter.com/j1Tlw2GWsI  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 16, 2017

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday stated that along with a state funeral and an appropriate gun salute, a Flypast may take place, depending on the weather conditions, to honour the contribution of Marshal of IAF, Arjan Singh.

Read: Arjan Singh: IAF's 1965 braveheart and only five star air marshal

Arjan Singh, known for his role in the 1965 Indo-Pak war, was admitted to the Army Hospital Research and Referral after he suffered a heart attack. He was the only officer of the IAF to be promoted to the five-star rank.

An icon of the Indian military history, Singh had led a young IAF into the war in 1965 when he was hardly 44 years of age.

In 1965, when Pakistan had launched its Operation Grand Slam with an armoured thrust targeted at the vital town of Akhnoor, Singh led the Indian Air Force through the war with courage, determination and professional skill.

He inspired the IAF to victory, despite the constraints imposed on a full-scale use of air force combat power.

Read: IAF Marshal Arjan Singh, known for his role in 1965 Indo-Pak war, dies at 98

During the Second World War, Arjan Singh commanded the 1 Squadron of the Air Force as they fought on the Burma front. For his bravery and leadership, Arjan Singh was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross by the British.

With the birth of the Indian Air Force (IAF) shortly after independence, Arjan Singh rose up the ranks quickly and became Air Force Chief in 1964, at the age of just 45.

In 2002, Arjan Singh was appointed India's first Marshal of the Indian Air Force. After Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, he was the only five-star ranked officer in the country.

After his retirement, Arjan Singh was appointed as India's ambassador to Switzerland and the Vatican and then the High Commissioner to Kenya. He was Delhi's Lt Governor between 1989 and 1990.
Air Chief B.S. Dhanoa described the late Marshal of the Indian Air Force as a legend, icon, philanthropist and flying chief who led from the front.

IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa pays his last respects to Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh in New Delhi on Sunday. Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa paid tribute to the 1965 war hero, saying: IAF yesterday lost a legend and icon. When I was a young boy I was inspired by the then Chief of Air Force Arjan Singh. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: The home ministry on Sunday said state funeral will be accorded to Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh and the national flag will fly at half-mast at all government buildings here on Monday in his honour. Top leaders of the country also paid respects to the air veteran praising him for his contribution to the armed forces.

Tributes were paid to the Marshal of the Indian Air Force by President Ram Nath Kovind, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Army Chief Gen. Bipin Rawat and Navy Chief Adm. Sunil Lanba at Singhs residence, where his mortal remains are lying in-state. Vice-president M. Venkaiah Naidu, veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and party vice-president Rahul Gandhi too condoled the passing away of the air warrior.

The last rites of Singh, who passed away at the Armys Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday, would be performed at Brar Square here at 10 am on Monday.

As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, a state funeral will be accorded and national flag will fly half-mast on the day of the funeral (September 18) in Delhi at all buildings where it is flown regularly, a home ministry spokesperson said.

The defence ministry said Singhs mortal remains will be taken to the funeral site from his residence in a gun carriage procession on Monday. It said a gun salute will be given and a fly past will be organised before the final rites.

Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died here on Saturday at the age of 98.

Meanwhile, Air Chief B.S. Dhanoa described the late Marshal of the Indian Air Force as a legend, icon, philanthropist and flying chief who led from the front. Air Chief Dhanoa said as a young boy he was inspired by the five-star officer.

IAF on Saturday lost a legend and icon. When I was a young boy I was inspired by the then Chief of Air Force Arjan Singh, he said.

He recalled Singhs immense contribution during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, the first major air battle the IAF fought after Independence.

It was to his credit that despite initial setbacks we were able to overcome and overwhelm the enemy and spoil their design to annex Jammu and Kashmir, Air Chief Dhanoa said.

Singh kept his flying category even while he was the Chief of Air Staff, a distinctive quality that Dhanoa also alluded to. He was a flying chief and at many times he used to fly aircraft. When he used to go for inspections to units he would fly in his own aircraft. He has flown multiple aircraft and the last one was MiG21 when he was leaving the IAF, the Air Chief said.
In court, Amit Shah said Maya Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam and was inside the State Assembly at 8:30 am.

BJP President Amit Shah said, 'From 9:30 am to 9:45 am, I was at the Civil Hospital and I met Maya Kodnani there.' (Photo: PTI)

Ahmedabad: BJP chief Amit Shah on Monday appeared before a sessions court in Ahmedabad in the 2002 Naroda Gam riots case as a defence witness to Maya Kodnani.

In court, Amit Shah said Maya Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam and was inside the State Assembly at 8:30 am.

Shah said, "From 9:30 am to 9:45 am, I was at the Civil Hospital and I met Maya Kodnani there."

Shah said he was surrounded by people when he left hospital. He said, "Maya Kodnani and I were taken to our respective cars in Police jeep; was 11-11:15 am that time."

A judge had earlier said Shah was required to appear before the court on Monday or send in a lawyer to reply to Kodnanis claim of innocence in the murder of 11 Muslims who were killed in Naroda Gam, a village in Ahmedabad.

Kodnani, a gynaecologist and a former Gujarat minister has been found guilty of the mass execution of almost 100 Muslims on February 28, 2002, in Naroda Patiya. She has also been accused of killing another 11 Muslims on the same day in Naroda Gam.

Kodnani, in her defence, has said she was in the State Assembly on February 28, 2002 and then at her hospital in Ahmedabad. She has repeatedly claimed to have met Shah at the hospital on that very day.

Kodnani has also served as Gujarats Minister for Women and Child Development until she was arrested in 2009. She is facing trial along with another 78 in the case.
The accused have been identified as Siddesh Bhelsekar, Rakesh Kadam, Nilesh Kadam and Dinaar Pawar.

Dr Amarapurkar, a leading Gastroenterologist at the Bombay Hospital, fell in an open manhole on the Matkar road in the Elphinstone area near Dadar during the heavy rains in Mumbai. (Photo: ANI)

Mumbai: The Mumbai Police on Monday arrested four persons for their negligence in connection with the tragic death of renowned gastroenterologist Dr Deepak Amarapurkar, who fell into an open manhole on August 29, when heavy rains lashed the city.

The accused have been identified as Siddesh Bhelsekar, Rakesh Kadam, Nilesh Kadam and Dinaar Pawar.

They have also been charged under IPC Section 304(A), which pertains to causing death by negligence.

According to the police, four men, who live in a nearby chawl, had opened the manhole to drain out the rainwater, which was running into their homes.

They were produced before a local magistrate's court and have been taken to judicial custody till September 22.

Earlier on September 1, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner ordered one-member inquiry committee to investigate into the matter.

The BMC further asked to submit the report in regard to the matter within 15 days.

The Indian Medical Association Mumbai Chapter had passed a resolution that it would file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in connection with the matter.

The IMA also held the BMC responsible for the death of Dr Amarapurkar .

"The entire doctor community across India is quite upset over such a careless and negligent incident. There must be safety measures in place as when any manhole is opened," the Board said, in a letter to the Municipal Commissioner.

They also requested the Municipal Commissioner to investigate the entire episode and take an appropriate action to avoid such incidents in future.

Dr Amarapurkar was a leading Gastroenterologist at the Bombay Hospital. He fell in an open manhole on the Matkar road in the Elphinstone area near Dadar during the heavy rains in Mumbai.

Dr Amarapurkar's funeral was held at the Shivaji Park crematorium after an autopsy was carried out in the civic-run Sion Hospital.

Many senior doctors from Bombay Hospital, where Dr Amarapurkar consulted as well as civic-run KEM Hospital in Parel and state-run JJ Hospital in Byculla, were present for the funeral.
BJP-led Central government is tightening screws on corruption issues ahead of Assembly polls.

BJP chief Amit Shah during a rally in September assured action over mining scam in Thakurani Mines in Keonjhar district

Bhubaneswar: The Naveen Patnaik government in Odisha is likely to encounter rough weather in the coming days as the BJP-led Central government is tightening the screws on two major corruption issues  the mega illegal mining scam and chit fund irregularities.

Highly placed sources said, the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) has started preliminary exercises to facilitate a CBI probe into the mining scam by starting communication with the Justice M.B. Shah Commission which is already seized of the illegal mining matter.

According to Justice M.M. Das Commission of Inquiry that looked into the chit fund scam, at least 174 chit fund firms have collected nearly Rs 10,000 crore from 20 lakh investors in the past decade. The CBI has been probing the case for over three years but state BJP leaders and investors are dissatisfied with the progress.

On the mining scam, BJP national president Amit Shah  during his recent visit to Odisha  dropped hints about the exchange of communications between the Union government and the Shah Commission.

The government of India is exchanging letters with Shah Commissions office on the mining scam issue. As regards, chit fund scam, no one will be spared, Mr Shah said.

The Odisha mining scam  which took place between 2006 and 2011 - is said to involve over Rs 3 lakh crore. Leaders of various political parties, including the ruling BJD, bureaucrats and influential persons are allegedly involved in this scam said to be the countrys biggest ever plunder of natural wealth.

According to a report of the Supreme Court-monitored Central Empowered Committee (CEC) that probed the irregularities, miners illegally extracted 215.5 million tonnes of minerals.

According to social activist and journalist Rabi Das, who had knocked the door of the Supreme Court for a CEC to probe into the scam, the Narendra Modi government is yet to take a firm stand on whether to hand over the probe to the CBI.

Justice M.B. Shah Commission of Inquiry in its final report submitted to the Union government on October 13, 2013, had recommended a CBI probe into the scam.

Till recently, the stand of the Modi government was that the CBI probe into Odisha mining scam would affect the on-going probe by the vigilance department of the Odisha government.

But now, under mounting pressure from party leaders, social organisations and intellectuals the BJP is considering to hand over the matter to the CBI.

Union home minister Rajnath Singh, during his stint as BJP chief, had also favoured a CBI probe into the Odisha mining scam on the eve of 2014 general elections.

The CEC, in its interim report, revealed that a large number of mines extracted minerals in Odisha after the expiry of lease period on the provision of deemed extension as no decision was taken on renewal application.

It found that at least 163 mining leases operated without the requisite approvals under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, environmental clearances, air and water acts or approved mining plans.

The CEC also found that out of the 596 mines, as many as 307 mines consisted of either wholly or partly forested areas. Of the 307 mines in forest areas - 104 operational mines had expired leases.

The Odisha government, in its reply furnished to National Mines Tribunal (NMT) in 2013, had admitted that the illegalities were committed in mining and stated that it had slapped `58,000 crore penalty on 196 mine owners who allegedly indulged in illegal and over-extraction of minerals, mainly iron ore.

Challenging the state governments decision to impose penalty, many mines owners had gone to court in a bid to delayed action against them.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, while disposing of a writ petition filed by Common Cause NGO on August 2, dealt a body blow to illegal miners by ordering recovery of 100 per cent compensation in lieu of the excess ore lifted.

As per the SC verdict, the state government should have recovered `58,000 crore fine slapped on mine owners. Surprisingly, the state government has sent demand notices to illegal mines operators to the tune of `17,576.16 crore only.

The figure was arrived at as per the notional value of the illegal extraction of ores calculated by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM).
The Centre said the total number of 'such illegal immigrants' in India would be more than 40,000 approximately.

The Centre said some Rohingyas were indulging in illegal /anti national activities i.e. mobilisation of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake Indian identities for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking. (Photo: AP)

New Delhi: The Centre on Monday filed affidavit in the Supreme Court over the Rohingya matter.

The apex court said that it will now hear the matter on 3 October at 2 pm.

In its affidavit to the apex court, the Centre said the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continuous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The Centre's affidavit, filed in the Supreme Court Registry, said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

Earlier on Monday, a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, that the reply would be filed later on Monday and fixed the PIL challenging the deportation of Rohingyas for hearing on October 3.

"As evident from the constitutional guarantee flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution, the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as well as right to move freely throughout the territory of India is available only to the citizens of India... No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this Court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general...," the affidavit filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The Centre said the Rohingya refugees were illegals and their continuous stay pose a grave security threat.

"It is submitted that continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats," it said.

In its affidavit to the apex court, the Centre said, "The total number of such illegal immigrants into our country would be more than 40,000 approximately as on date."

It said, "As far as Rohingyas are concerned they claimed to have entered from Myanmar using porous border between India and Myanmar."

The Centre said that it has contemporaneous from security agencies inputs indicating links of some unauthorised Rohingyas with Pakistan terror organisations.

The Centre said some Rohingyas were indulging in illegal /anti national activities i.e. mobilisation of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake Indian identities for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking.

The government said it may file in sealed cover the details of the security threats and inputs gathered by the various security agencies in this matter.

The Centre said that since India is not a signatory to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, the obligations concerned to non-refoulement is not applicable.

"That the provisions of Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951 and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1967 cannot be relied upon by the petitioner since India is not a signatory of either of them. It is respectfully submitted that the obligation concerning the prohibition of return/non-refoulement is a codified provision under the provisions of 1951 Convention referred to above.

"It is submitted that this obligation is binding only in respect of the States which are parties to the Convention. Since India is not a party to the said Convention, or the said Protocol, the obligations contained therein are not applicable to India," it said.

The bench, also comprising Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.

The plea, filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR), claimed they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The violent attacks allegedly by Myanmarese armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, were settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

The plea said that India has ratified and is a signatory to various conventions that recognise the Principle of "Non-Refoulement', which prohibits deportation of refugees to a country where they may face threat to their lives. The government has recently raised "serious concern" over reports of renewed violence and attacks in Myanmar and extended its "strong" support to the Myanmarese government at this "challenging moment".

With inputs from PTI.
Taslima questioned if Bangladesh would offer refuge to the Rohingyas, if they were not Muslims, but Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, or Jews.

New Delhi: Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen on Monday launched a scathing attack at the Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh government for extending support to the Rohingya refugees.

Taking to Twitter, the 'Lajja' writer said that Bangladesh government is providing shelter to the Rohingya refugees from Myanmar's Rakhine, not on the ground of humanity, but to garner votes.

She further questioned if Bangladesh would offer refuge to the Rohingyas, if they were not Muslims, but Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, or Jews.

"Bangladesh offered land to shelter Rohingya. What if these people were Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jews but not Muslims? Shelter not for humanity but for votes!" Taslima Nasreen said in her scathing tweet.

B'desh offerd land 2shelter Rohingya.What if thse ppl wre Hindus,Buddhists,Christians,Jews but not Muslims?Shelter not 4humanity but 4votes!  taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) September 18, 2017

Bangladesh, which is facing an unprecedented influx of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, plans to build new settlements to house about 4,00,000 refugees that entered the country over the past three weeks.

The new settlements will be built within the next 10 days on 2,000 acres in the Cox's Bazar district near Bangladesh's border with Myanmar, officials have said.

The authorities plan to construct 14,000 shelters, each with a capacity to hold six families, with the help of international organisations and the Bangladesh military.

The camps in Bangladesh were already overflowing with at least 4,00,000 Rohingya before the current exodus was provoked by Rohingya militants' attacking Myanmar police posts and an army base on August 25.

Earlier in the day, the Centre filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court on deportation of Rohingya Muslims from India.
The intelligence wing will have 650 field and staff agents to gather actionable information.

SSB DG Archana Ramasundaram welcomes Home Minister Rajnath Singh during the launch of Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) App at a Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) function in New Delhi. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Home minister Rajnath Singh on Monday cautioned people that anti-national elements were using social media to foment trouble by posting unverified material and that public should avoid forwarding such content on such platforms.

Speaking at a function of the para-military force, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Mr Singh said that wrong content, which has no basis, gets circulated on social media networks like WhatsApp, which the public believes to be true.

The home minister said that public and even para-military personnel should not believe such messages or forwards them without a proper verification since this could a ploy by the anti-national elements to create trouble in society.

Appreciating the SSBs role, Mr Singh said it was difficult for the security personnel to guard an open border since it is tough to detect criminals, subversive elements or those carrying fake currency. The SSB is deployed along the Indo-Nepal and Bhutan borders. The home minister launched the SSBs intelligence wing on Monday. In addition to a compensation of `1 crore to those getting martyred, Mr Singh said he was planning to do something more also in the days ahead.

The SSBs intelligence unit would be tasked with gathering information along the Nepal and Bhutan borders, which are considered highly porous, on movement of criminals and Kashmiri militants.

The intelligence wing will have 650 field and staff agents to gather actionable information.

Since 2010, as many as 230 former Kashmiri militants, based in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), have returned home through the Indo-Nepal border. On the other hand, the Indo-Bhutan border is often used by terror groups active in the Northeast, particularly the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), which has even attacked Bhutanese nationals in the past.

Having a separate specialised intelligence unit was important for the SSB since subversive elements are known to take advantage of the friendly Borders with Nepal and Bhutan.
President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singhs residence on Sunday.

Army Chief Gen. Bipin Rawat, Navy Chief Adm. Sunil Lanba and IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa salute Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh as his mortal remains are cremated at Brar Square in Delhi Cantonment. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Five canons bellowed out 17 shots in cyclical fashion with a 2.5 second gap between each round, three Sukhoi fighter aircraft flew in a missing man formation and three Mi 17 helicopters flew overhead trooping IAF colours as the nation honoured the Marshal of the Indian Air Force (MIAF), Arjan Singh, who breathed his last on Saturday evening at a ripe 98.

Laid to rest with full state honours, the mortal remains of the air warrior was consigned to flames amid chanting of sacred hymns at the Brar Square in Delhi Cantonment in the presence of several senior political leaders and top brass of the Indian military, including defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, BJP veteran L.K. Advani and the three service chiefs.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singhs residence on Sunday. The tricolour flew at half-mast at all government buildings in honour of the iconic hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war, who was the only IAF officer to be promoted to five-star rank. Only two warriors  Field Marshals Sam Manekshaw and K.M. Cariappa  have held the five-star ranks.

Earlier, Singhs body, wrapped in the national flag, was taken in a gun carriage from his house at Kautilya Marg to the Brar Square crematorium. With demonstrated valour in battlefield, MIAF Singh, in a way, signified the transformation from the Royal Air Force to the IAF when he led a flypast of over a hundred IAF aircraft over the Red Fort in Delhi on the first Independence Day celebrations in 1947.

Appointed IAF chief at the young age of 44, Singhs role was instrumental in ensuring dominance over Pakistani skies during the 1965 Indo-Pak war even though Pakistan was better equipped with American support.

The nation will remember MIAF Arjan Singh as a military legend but in the eyes of his children, Arvind and Asha Singh, he was an extremely humble man. Arvind Singh, who flew in from the US for his fathers last rites, said he learnt humility by observing him.

One thing that struck me (about my father) was that he was always very humble. He always treated people well. If he saw a sweeper he would treat him equally, he said.

Daughter Asha Singh described the passing away of her father as her biggest loss. For me it is the biggest loss. He was a great human being and an inspiration for me. I am glad that he will live on in the annals of history.
Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin rebels trained in Pakistan may try to sneak into India.

A Rohingya refugee carries two children in buckets as they arrive at Shah Porir Dwip in Teknaf, Bangladesh. (Photo: AFP)

Guwahati: Before filing the affidavit in the Supreme Court on the Rohingya issue, the ministry of home affairs has alerted all the border guarding forces of India to keep a close watch on the movement of Islamic terrorist group Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin of Rohingya in Myanmar.

Informing that rebels of Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin may try to sneak into India from eastern frontier, security sources told this newspaper that the Islamic terrorist group, which came into existence in Myanmar few years back, was trained and armed by the Taliban in Pakistan.

Referring specific instances of Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin terrorists involvement in attacks on police stations and Army posts in Myanmar, security sources said that Indian security agencies had prior information about the formation of Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin which has also developed very strong connections in Bangladesh. Security sources said that members of terrorist organisation were given training in handling sophisticated weapons and explosive making in Pakistan.

Pointing out that Rohin-gya Solidarity Organisation (RSO), a civil society group of Rohingya in Rakhine province of Myanmar, was also supporting Aqa-Mul-Mujahidin discreetly, security sources said that members of the Islamic terrorist groups are looking towards India for shelter. The RSO leaders were also given training with the Taliban in Pakistan and receiving fund from West Asia to procure weapons.

Security sources, however, admitted that majority of Rohingya fleeing Rakhin province of Myanmar are moving towards Bangladesh, but did not rule out the chances of them turning towards Tripura and West Bengal in India as well.

Security sources reiterated that Rohingya are illegal immigrants in the country and their continuous stay was posing serious threat to national security.

Pointing out that security agencies has not recorded any significant migration of Rohingya refugees to Northeastern states so far, security sources said that about 36 Rohingya refugees are lodged in detention camp.

Security sources said that it would be highly challenging for any government to deport Rohingya refugees as Myanmar has already declared them stateless citizens.
The Centre also said the plan to deport the Rohingya refugees was a policy decision and the court should desist from interfering in the matter.

Srinagar: Former chief minister Omar Abdullah said on Monday that the Centres claim that the Rohingya Muslims are a security threat is a post-2014 development as far as their presence in J&K is concerned.

This threat, at least in J&K, is a post-2014 development. No such intelligence reports ever came up for discussion in Unified HQ meetings, he tweeted soon after the government told the Supreme Court that Rohingya Muslims are illegal immigrants in the country and their continuous stay posed serious national security threat.

However, minister of state in the PMO, Jiten-dra Singh, ridiculed Mr Abdullah, who is the working president of Oppositional National Conference and was the J&K CM between 2008 and 2014, terming his tweet as a stray tweet.

He said, We have every reason to trust the home ministry rather than pay attention to some stray tweets.

The Centres affidavit, filed in the apex court, said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cant invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

The Centre also said the plan to deport the Rohingya refugees was a policy decision and the court should desist from interfering in the matter. It said some Rohingya refugees have links with the global terror outfit, Islamic State, and allowing them to stay in India would pose a security threat to the country.

The affidavit also said: Some Rohingyas with militant background were active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and are a potential threat to the internal security.

Thousands of Rohingya refugees, who have fled violence in Myanmar, are living in Jammu and Kashmir, mainly in jhuggies (shacks) on the outskirts of winter capital Jammu from many years.

Many of them have or are leaving following threats from local groups and activists. Several hundred of them recently relocated to Telegana and some other states down south.

Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) president Rakesh Gupta in August told a press conference in the winter capital that if the government fails to deport all Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar and Bangladeshi nationals from Jammu in a month and book those people on whose land these foreigners have settled under the states stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), it would launch an identify and kill campaign against them.

He said there was no wrong in taking such action against these people, as they were involved in drug trafficking and other criminal and anti-social activities.

The open threat evoked sharp criticism in Muslim majority Kashmir Valley and some political and religious groups of Jammu were equally critical of Mr Gupta. But he, defending himself, said it wouldnt be an offense to deal sternly with such criminals and drug traffickers as they have illegally come to Jammu. It is high time that the people at large should also shoulder and share responsibility of the security forces and deal with these people as the situation demands, he had said.

He had also said that the JCCI is aware of the fact that Jammus district administration has initiated the process to identify the settlers and the Union home ministry too has asked for details from the state government on the issue but we feel that is not enough to deal with the looming threat and we will not take it lying down till they are deported.

As per J&K government sources, there were until recently as many as 6,684 registered Rohinya Muslims and a few thousands Bangladeshi nationals often referred to as Bihari Muslims in Jammu region. A Jammu lawyer Hunar Gupta who is a member of the BJPs legal cell and standing council for the Central government had recently filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the J&K High Court seeking identification and deportation of Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims from Jammu. While senior advocate Sunil Sethi who is also chief spokesman of the BJP in J&K has been appearing in the PIL along with Mr. Gupta, two other lawyers Shah Faisal and Fidel Sebastian had moved an application before the court, pleading that they be heard before an order is passed in the PIL which also seeks directions to the government for shifting all illegal immigrants of Myanmar and Bangladesh to any other state as no refugee camp has ever been declared either by the state of the UN in Jammu and Kashmir. End it

The Centre Monday told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are illegal immigrants in the country and their countinous stay posed serious national security threat. The Centres affidavit, filed in the apex court said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right. The Centre also said the plan to deport Rohingya refugees was a policy decision and the court should desist from interfering in the matter. It said that some Rohingya refugees have links with the global terror outfit Islamic State and allowing them to stay in India would pose a security threat to the country. The Centre said, Some Rohingyas with militant background were active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat and are a potential threat to internal security. The Rohingya have denied any link with Islamic extremist groups. The BJP-led governments argument was in response to a petition filed by two Rohingya refugees challenging the Centres decision to deport an estimated 40,000 people of the community living in India. Taking note of the Centres reply, the court has adjourned the hearing in the matter to October 3. Centre added that it will place all intelligence inputs in a sealed envelope before SC on October 3 to prove its claim that Rohingyas are a security threat. Rights groups have urged India to abide by its international obligations after the government said last month it had asked state authorities to identify and deport the Rohingya living in their terriory. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, representing the Rohingya at the Supreme Court hearing, said the Indian constitution provides equal rights and liberty to every person including non-citizens.
Photographs of 43 suspects responsible for instigating or indulging in the large-scale violence have also been released on the Haryana police website.

Chandigarh: The Haryana police on Monday released a list of the most wanted people involved in the violence by Dera Sacha Sauda sect followers last month. Honeypreet Kaur, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs close aide, tops the list with Dera spokesperson Aditya Insan.

Photographs of 43 suspects responsible for instigating or indulging in the large-scale violence have also been released on the Haryana police website.

The photographs have mostly been obtained from video footage of TV news channels and police videos and CCTV cameras installed at various places in Panchkula. The police has not been able to identify the accused by their names so far.

According to Haryana DGP B.S. Sandhu, the list has been released so that people could identify these people and inform the police in case they know them. The identity of the informers will be kept secret, the DGP said. On the speculation that Honeypreet has fled to Nepal, the DGP replied that police has no information on Honeypreets escape and that crack teams of the police are looking for her in many states. Ram Rahims conviction for rape had led to large-scale violence in Panchkula on August 25. The violence left 32 people dead and nearly 250 injured. Honeypreet, whose real name is Priyanka Taneja and is the adopted daughter of Ram Rahim, is absconding since August 25 evening.

She had accompanied the self-stlyed godman from Sirsa till the CBI special court in Panchkula where he was convicted on two counts of rape.

Later, she accompanied Ram Rahim in the helicopter from Panchkula to Rohtak after he was convicted in the rape cases and was being shifted to the prison near Rohtak.

The Haryana police has booked Honeypreet for sedition and being involved in an alleged conspiracy. The police has issued a lookout notice against her. Cops has also issued a lookout notice against Aditya Insan, a former eye-specialist from All-India Institute of Medical Sciences.

He was last seen in Panchkula minutes before the violence broke out. Aditya is booked with four other Dera functionaries for sedition and inciting violence.

Meanwhile, an SIT of the Haryana Police on Monday questioned Dera Sacha Sauda chairperson Vipassana Insan.
There have been several incidents of violence perpetrated by cow vigilantes in recent months.

Jaipur: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that those who revere cows do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt.

Rearing of cows is financially beneficial for us, he said to a question asked by a volunteer during a meeting in Jamdoli near Jaipur on Sunday.

Mr Bhagwat, who is on a six-day tour of Rajasthan, said, People who revere cows devote themselves to rearing cows. They do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt.

There have been several incidents of violence perpetrated by cow vigilantes in recent months. To another question on use of Chinese goods, he said Swadeshi means to use items and products that are made in small and cottage industries.

Using Swadeshi products provides employment to people. Using Swadeshi items manifest a sense of pride within, he said.

Meanwhile, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also reached out to tribal leaders in Rajasthan, assuring them all help to address the grievances of their communities, and stressed on providing education which promotes self-respect.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief interacted with a dozen leaders of various nomadic tribes who raised issues such as difficulties faced by the community members in getting identity cards, ration cards and aadhaar cards.

Mr Bhagwat assured them that Sangh volunteers would now more actively work with them to ensure that they do not face these problems.

On the need to promote education among tribal communities, he said, We need to ensure education which promotes a feeling of self-respect for overall progress of the country.

He said the Sangh, through various Hindu organisations, is moving ahead by taking all sections of the society along for the overall progress of the nation.
Exports are also facing strong headwinds and industrial growth is at its lowest in five years.

New Delhi: With Indias GDP sinking to a three-year low, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with finance minister Arun Jaitley and top finance ministry officials on Tuesday on measures to stimulate the economy.

Government circles have begun acknowledging that there is a need to step in as growth falters. From last week there have been a series of meetings to explore ways to give the economy a boost. Meetings were held between finance ministry and PMO officials on forming a strategy to revive animal spirits in the economy. There are indications that chief economic adviser Arvind Subramanian had last week given a presentation on the situation to the Prime Minister.

Sources said various measures are being looked at. But there are also fiscal constraints before the government and any measures announced will have to factor these in.

Tuesdays meeting with the PM is likely to focus on what ails the economy and the fiscal space available to the government. Steps to boost economic growth, create jobs and revive private investment may be a part of the discussion.

Indias GDP growth in April-June (first quarter of 2017-18) slowed sharply to a three-year low of 5.7 per cent. GDP growth has decelerated in every quarter for over a year.

It fell from 7.9 per cent in April-June 2016-17 to 7.5 per cent in July-September 2016-17, then to seven per cent in October-December 2016-17 and further to 6.1 per cent in January-March 2017.

Exports are also facing strong headwinds and industrial growth is at its lowest in five years. The government is concerned over faltering growth despite a benign macro-economic climate with easy money flowing in, global growth reviving, solid government revenues, deep foreign exchange reserves, reasonable oil prices and a decent monsoon keeping food prices in check.
Both the accused Jagdish and Jagat are on the run.

Sikar: Atrocities against school children continue unabated, as yet another shocking incident is reported from Sikar in Rajasthan.

An 18-year-old student was allegedly raped by the school director and a teacher in Rajasthan's Sikar district, the police said on Monday.

The victim's parents in their complaint alleged that the two had been sexually assaulting her for some days after calling her to school on the pretext of extra classes.

When she became pregnant, the duo allegedly made her undergo an abortion at a clinic in Shahpura town, circle officer, Neem Ka Thana, Kushal Singh said.

The matter came to light after the teenager's health deteriorated post abortion.

The student is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Jaipur, he added.

Following the complaint, school director Jagdish Yadav and teacher Jagat Singh Gurjar were booked on gangrape charge and getting abortion done without a woman's consent.

A case was also registered against Dr Rajnish Sharma and his wife Kanan for carrying out illegal abortion and destroying evidence, police said.

"The victim is unconscious and undergoing treatment. We are yet to register her statement.We have constituted teams to nab the accused at the earliest.A case has been registered against the four persons," SHO, Ajeetgarh, Manglaram Ola said.

The incident comes in less than two weeks when a 7-year-old boy, Pradyuman Thakur, of Ryan International School, Bhondsi, was found in a pool of blood inside the toilet of the school. He was bleeding profusely.

Pradyuman, student of Class 2, was immediately rushed to a private hospital where doctors declared him brought dead. A knife has been recovered from the scene of the crime.

School bus conductor Ashok, arrested for the murder of Pradyuman, allegedly attempted to sexually assault the boy and killed him when he raised an alarm.

With inputs from PTI.
The chief minister, however, also hinted he was not in favour of early Bihar elections with the Lok Sabha in 2019.

Patna: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar wants all political parties to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies.

Mr Kumar said, I see nothing wrong in holding both the elections together as it will bring down the countrys expenditure.

The debate on holding simultaneous elections for Parliament and Assemblies first began after Mr Modi many times urged political parties to evolve a consensus on the issue.

Mr Kumar, who dumped the RJD and the Congress in July to form an alliance with the NDA in Bihar, favoured the BJP on the issue on Monday. Though no official line has been decided by the RJD and the Congress to react on Mr Kumars statement, sources said RJD chief Lalu Yadav might oppose the issue.

Mr Kumar also wants the political parties to agree with him on holding panchayat and local body elections along with Parliament and Assembly elections. The chief minister, however, also hinted he was not in favour of early Bihar elections with the Lok Sabha in 2019.

JD(U) state president Basisth Narayan Singhs earlier statement on the issue had sparked speculation that the ruling alliance in Bihar might prefer to hold Assembly election in 2019 to coincide with the General Elections. The Assembly polls in Bihar are scheduled for 2020.

The Bihar CM said this while briefing media on the sidelines of his weekly Samvad programme in Patna. It is a fact that Parliament and Assembly elections used to be held together before 1967, and now the time has come to think on the issue once again. It is not right to put people in election mode repeatedly as it also hampers development and creates administrative problems.

Mr Kumar attacked Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi for giving a statement on dynasty politics. He said he personally disapproves dynastic politics, which was started by the Congress party.

There are many non-dynasts in the country who have done well in politics. It is not right to say that the dynastic politics is acceptable in the Indian politics. Its the Congress party that started the dynastic politics in the country, he said.
A majority of the disqualified legislators are staying at a private resort in Karnatakas Kodagu district.

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs supporting rebel leader T.T.V. Dhinakaran for withdrawing their support to chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and going against the line of the ruling AIADMK.

The Speakers decision brings down the strength of the 234-member Assembly to 214 and the magic number for a majority down to 108 from 118, which might enable the Edappadi K. Palaniswami government to prove its strength on the floor of the House.

As per the last count on September 5, the chief ministers camp had the support of 114 MLAs as 111 of them turned up at a meeting and three others registered their presence over the phone. The Tamil Nadu Assembly has 19 seats vacant now, including R.K. Nagar which is vacant since late chief minister J. Jayalalithaas death in December 2016. A floor test cannot take place till Wednesday as per a directive of the Madras high court.

Almost a month after the rebel group MLAs had submitted a letter to acting governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao declaring withdrawal of their support to the CM, Speaker Dhanapal issued a statement in which he said the legislators were disqualified under Members of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualifica-tion on Ground of Defection) Rules 1986.

The MLAs who were disqualified include P. Vetrivel and Thanga Tamilselvan, the most vocal supporters of Mr Dhinakaran, whose appointment as deputy general secretary and reinduction into the party was struck down by the general council last week. A majority of the disqualified legislators are staying at a private resort in Karnatakas Kodagu district.

The move was expected since the Speaker had sent them notices seeking their reply on why they should not be disqualified for going against the party line on August 24. Mr Dhanapal acted on a petition by chief whip S. Rajendran, who sought their disqualification for expressing no confidence against the CM. The move may clear some uncertainty for now, but the rival Dhinakaran camp has vowed to take the fight right up to the Supreme Court.

Legal experts were divided, with a majority saying any decision by the Speaker is subject to judicial review. They also referred to the Supreme Court cancelling the disqualification of 16 MLAs by the then Karnataka Speaker in October 2010. They also said the sky-high powers of the Speaker are limited to his/her actions on the floor of the House, and inside the Assembly.

Immediately after the move was made public, Mr Dhinakaran accused the Speaker and the government of trying to prove its majority through unfair means. He said: It is always justice that prevails at the end. We will definitely seek legal course and ensure our legislators participate in the voting as and when it happens. They will vote against this government.

However, fisheries minister and EPS-OPS loyalist D Jayakumar said the Speaker acted democratically and had gone by the rulebook. I am not supposed to comment on the Speakers decision or action. His decision is final and moreover this matter is in court. If I talk about it, it will be sub judice, he told reporters in New Delhi.

The Opposition also hit out against the Speakers decision, calling it most unfortunate. The disqualification has been done deliberately to reduce the strength of the House. We will challenge the decision at two places  in the courts and in the peoples court, Opposition leader M.K. Stalin said.
The harmless elephants fled into the surrounding forests after forest department personnel fired in the air to scare them away.

The harmless elephants fled into the surrounding forests after forest department personnel fired in the air to scare them away. (Representational: Pixabay)

Doon residents out on a morning walk on Monday encountered a jumbo problem as a herd of elephants crossed their path in the Ladpur residential area of the city.

However, the elephants did not hurt any passersby and fled into the surrounding forests after forest department personnel fired in the air and set off firecrackers to scare them away, Dehradun DFO Prasanna Kumar Patro said.

The elephants created a scare among people out on a morning walk.

It is for the first time that elephants forayed so deep into the city.

The elephants are still in the forests near the city and we are trying to chase them away to Rajaji National Park, he said.

The herd actually comprised a family of three elephants including a male, a female elephant and their calf, he said adding the family was recently spotted roaming around in Nakraunda area.

With construction work on the Dehradun-Haridwar National Highway picking up momentum of late the elephants seem to have lost their way to Rajaji National Park and strayed into residential areas, he said.

Eyewitnesses said the herd of elephants had forayed into Badrish colony adjacent to Dalanwala.

We woke up to the sounds of firecrackers and gunshots this morning. As we looked out we saw three elephants running into the jungles, Badrish colony resident Rajesh Painuli said.
Firdosh's father working in Saudi Arabia instructed her mother to admit the girl and her brother to another school following diktats.

In an environment poisoned by incidents of communal hatred and violence, few individuals come across as hope for religious harmony and a better future. Among these is a Muslim girl named Firdaus from Odisha who made headlines and got a lot of love for securing first position in a Geeta chanting competition.

But in what can be described as a tragic turn of events, the student of Sovaniya Sikhyashram, who outperformed 55 others in the contest, has been forced to change her school. Her mother Arifa Bibi told the New Indian Express that she was withdrawn from school following a diktat from local clerics.

Most of the girls relatives and the clergy had expressed displeasure at Firdosh reading the Gita. Eventually her father who works in Saudi Arabia also instructed his wife to admit Firdaus and her brother to another school.

A local cleric told the daily that the decision to pull out the children from Sovaniya Sikhyashram was right alleging that they were forced to recite the Gita every day. He added that a school should give moral education and treat everyone as equal but Firdauss school was giving religious education.

The girl from Kendrapara town had won the competition in March and her mother had expressed happiness over Firdauss success.
In the last three years, no judges were appointed in the high court, Calcutta, except one, the memorandum said.

Kolkata: The Calcutta high court, the oldest one in the country, is functioning with less than half its sanctioned strength of judges. The number of judges will dip to 30 next week following the retirement of Acting Chief Justice Nishita Mhatre against its sanctioned strength of 72. It will go down further to 25 in December when more judges reach superannuation.

If new appointments of judges are not made immediately, the justice delivery system (in the HC) is likely to crash... In the absence of requisite number of judges, litigants, lawyers and the judges are suffering owing to the abysmal ratio of judges against pending cases, Calcutta High Court Bar Association president Uttam Majumdar said.

We have sought appointments from president Ram Nath Kovind, Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra and Union law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad to present our case for new judges, he said.

The lawyers had on September 13 submitted a memorandum to West Bengal governor K.N. Tripathi demanding his intervention and immediate steps for filling up vacant posts of judges as per the sanctioned strength at the Calcutta high court. While the sanctioned strength of judges at the Calcutta high court is 72, there are at present only 31 judges. Nearly three lakh cases are pending before the high court at present, Mr Majumdar said.

The number of judges will touch 30 with the retirement of Justice Mhatre on September 18 and dwindle further to 29 on September 24 when Justice Rajiv Sharma retires. This number will further reduce to 25 in December owing to retirement of four more judges, he said. In the last three years, no judges were appointed in the high court, Calcutta, except one, the memorandum said.

A section of lawyers had recently written to President Ram Nath Kovind seeking his intervention to alleviate the plight of the justice system in the Calcutta high court and also sat on a dharna in front of the main building demanding immediate appointment of judges. The situation is alarming and requires immediate response to restore semblance of sense of justice and peace, the letter signed by around 600 lawyers said.

Acting Chief Justice Nishita Mhatre had on August 4 expressed anguish at the non appointment of judges saying the court was constrained for time as it was functioning at less than half of its sanctioned strength. Flaying the Centre for delaying the appointment of judges, another division bench of the high court had on July 12 warned of appropriate action if urgent steps were not taken.

Immediate action is called for to appoint maximum number of judges to prevent the justice delivery system from collapsing, which seems to be imminent, a division bench of justices Dipankar Dutta and D.P. Dey said. If no judge is appointed by February 11, the vacancy would rise to nearly 66 per cent, the bench had observed.
Several parts of state, including Marathwada, could face downpour.

On August 29, Mumbai received an unexpected 331mm rainfall in the span of 24 hours, which brought the Maximum City to a grinding halt.

Mumbai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an alert on Sunday that Mumbai, central Maharashtra, Vidarbha, coastal Konkan and Marathwada may receive heavy showers in the next three days.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials have issued an alert on Sunday that Mumbai and a few other parts of the state including Marathwada, Vidarbha, central Maharashtra and the coastal Konkan region could receive heavy showers in the next three days.

The IMD also warned that the South Konkan region, including Ratnagiri and Sindh-udurg districts, could also face heavy downpour for next three days.

The Met department also said that there is the probability of heavy rainfall in isolated places in North Konkan, consisting of Mumbai region, and Palghar and Raigad

districts.

According to the K.S. Hosalikar, deputy director-general (western region), IMD, Rains or thundershowers are likely to occur at many places in central Maharashtra. There would be showers at many places in Marathwada and isolated places near Gujarat.

On August 29, Mumbai received 331mm rainfall in 24 hours. The heavy rains had brought the city to a grinding halt. Many people were stranded in their offices and railway stations for more than 12 hours as the downpour paralysed the local trains services after tracks were submerged. Earlier this week too, the city witnessed the thunderstorm and widespread rainfall. On September 17, 32.2 mm rain was recorded in Santa Cruz observatory and 33.8 mm in Colaba observatory.

The weather alert triggered frantic discussions on various school WhatsApp groups as many citizens were asking whether schools will remain closed on Monday. BB Chavan, deputy director of education (Mumbai Division), said, The state government has not issued any notice or circular to us till now. The moment we get anything, it would be sent it to all the schools and junior

colleges.

Perin Bagli, the principal of Activity High School on Peddar Road, said, Apart from parents and teachers discussing the status of the schools being functional or not, nothing from the governments side has reached us till now. However, after the August 29 incident, we are fully prepared.
The Mumbai girl upset world no. 7 and second seed Satsuki Odo of Japan in the quarterfinals to assure herself of a bronze.

Diya's good performances over the last few months have earned her a place in Team Asia. She will now play in the World Cadet Challenge Tournament in Fiji from October 21 to October 29. (Photo: Youtube/Screengrab)

Mumbai: Indian paddler Diya Parag Chitale completed her campaign in the Croatia Junior and Cadet Open on a triumphant note by claiming a second bronze medal in the cadet girls' singles category.

The Mumbai girl, who was the only Indian in fray in the prestigious tournament at Varazdin, Croatia, upset world no. 7 and second seed Satsuki Odo of Japan 11-7 3-11 11-8 12-10 in the quarterfinals to assure herself of a bronze.

She took on world no. 11 and third seed Elizabet Abraamian of Russia in the semifinals yesterday, but the Indians lost 11-6 5-11 9-11 5-11.

Diya had earlier won a bronze in the cadet girls' (Under-15) team event in the company of Russia's Liubov Tentser.

Diya's good performances over the last few months have earned her a place in Team Asia. She will now play in the World Cadet Challenge Tournament in Fiji from October 21 to October 29.

"I am happy with the way I played. I lost a couple of matches after being in a good position," she conceded.

"But this has been a good tournament and will do wonders to my confidence," Diya added.

Diya had represented the World Hopes Team at the same event in Egypt two years back.
He won the award for the role of Nasir Khan, the son of a Pakistani cab driver from Queens who becomes a murder suspect in

Los Angeles: British Pakistani actor Riz Ahmed became the first Muslim actor as well as the man of Asian descent to win an Emmy award at TV's biggest night on Sunday and spoke about the "systematic issue of inclusion".

The actor took home the trophy for the outstanding lead actor in a limited series for 'The Night Of', in which he plays Nasir Khan, the son of a Pakistani cab driver from Queens who becomes a murder suspect.

Ahmed is the second Asian actor ever to receive the honour, following 'The Good Wife' star Archie Panjabi, who won the supporting actress award in a drama series in 2010.

In his speech, he talked about the importance of the Innocence Project and the New York-based South Asian Youth Action organisation.

"I want to say it is always strange reaping the rewards of a story that's based on real world suffering, but if this show has shown a light on some of the prejudice in our societies, Islamophobia, some of the injustice in our justice system, then maybe that is something.

"I don't know if any one person's win changes something, that's a systemic issue of inclusion. In this industry, that's something that happens slowly over time," he said in his powerful speech on stage.

Ahmed, 34, praised Ed Skrein's decision to step away from the part of an Asian character in 'Hellboy' reboot to give chance to a more deserving actor.

Ahmed said it was important to represent cultural authenticity in roles and Skrein's example will lead to more awareness around the conversation.

Born in London to a British Pakistani family, Ahmed was initially known for his work in independent films, such as 'The Road to Guantanamo', 'Shifty', 'Four Lions', 'Trishna' and Mira Nair's 'The Reluctant Fundamentalist' before his breakout role in 'Nightcrawler' in 2014, alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
Abbasi approved the summary sent to the PM Office by the defence ministry, proposing four civilian DGs in the ISI.

Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has approved a proposal to increase the civilians share in the senior hierarchy of the countrys powerful spy agency - the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Mr Abbasi on September 15 approved the proposal to increase the number of directors general  the highest civilian post in the agency from one to four, the Dawn reported on Sunday.

The post of civilian DG in the ISI is a grade 21 position, equivalent to a serving major general of the armed forces. Previously, there was only one civilian DG post in the intelligence agency.

Abbasi approved the summary sent to the PM Office by the defence ministry, proposing four civilian DGs in the ISI.

In addition, the Prime Minister has also enhanced the number of deputy directors general (DDGs) from eight to 15. The same summary recommended the creation of seven additional DDG posts for civilian officers in grade 20.

The Prime Minister has seen and is pleased to approve the proposal at para 5 read with the views of Establishment Division and of Finance Division, according to the office order issued by the PM Office on September 15.

When contacted, Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet and Establishment Division Raja Javed Ikhlas termed the order a routine matter.

An official of the militarys media wing Inter-Services Public Relations  did not comment on the development, but said that since the Prime Minister was the competent authority, as the ISI worked under PM secretariat, it was his prerogative to increase the sanctioned posts in the agency.

Formed in 1948 as an independent unit to strengthen the countrys intelligence network, ISI was formerly part of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), which handled intelligence-sharing between different branches of the military, as well as external intelligence gathering.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe, accompanied with his wife and delegation.

Beijing: Days after Modi-Abe meet during latters visit to India, Chinese media on Monday accused Japan of misleading India, stating that the Tokyo doesn't really want to confront Beijing directly.

Chinese state-run media, Global Times in an editorial said, India should be wary of being misled by Japan in confronting China, while Tokyo benefits from New Delhi's face-off with Beijing.

However, the editorial lacks to describe, how Japan would be benefited from India-China face-off. China has been luring India for the high-speed train project, 80 per cent funded by Japans Shinkansen group under five-year construction plan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe, accompanied with his wife and delegation; inaugurated the ambitious 508 kilometres Bullet Train project from Ahemdabad to Mumbai.

Chin has been curios with Indias infrastructure development agenda as the Global Times taunting in the editorial said, India's infrastructure is where China's was 20 years ago.

The editorial, taking dig at Indias development policy, said, New Delhi has just started building expressways and high-speed railway, but roads in smaller cities and rural areas are still akin to dirt tracks.

Failing to get the opportunity of building Indias maiden high-speed train, the Chinese media said in the editorial that Beijing has developed trade and investment ties with European, Asian and African nations. The BRI is a culmination of China's growing economic footprint and is definitely not an illusion.

The editorial urges both India and Japan, to work with China for a win-win situation in Asian-subcontinent as the editorial states, China, Japan and India - the three major Asian powers - can foster pragmatic cooperation, which could be a win-win situation for regional progress and development as well.

Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying in and official statement said, Any third party should respect the efforts made by China and India to settle the disputes through negotiation.

China expressed its dissatisfaction over Japan's investment plan in northeast India as the former shares a border with India along Arunchal Pradesh, which angered it as joint statement failed to mention Beijings reference.

Similarly, Any third party should not meddle in the disputes between China and India over territorial sovereignty in any form, Chinese foreign ministry added.

The India-Japan joint statement read, "The two Prime Ministers welcomed the India-Japan cooperation on development of India's North Eastern Region (NER) as a concrete symbol of developing synergies between India's Act East policy and Japan's Free and Open Indo Pacific Strategy."
by Marcelo Farias Dos Santos

Fr Marcelo, 33, from Brazil, is bound for the mission to Japan after attending a training course in Phnom Penh. After studying Asia in books, he will experience it in person. The Cambodian Church, a small seed in the great field of the Buddhist world, bears witness. Being "tools of God's love" is very important.

Phnom Penh (AsiaNews)  The training course for missionaries who joined the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) between 2009 and 2015 has just come to an end. This international group represents the present and the future of our institute.

I was fortunate enough to go through this experience and I thank the Lord, especially for two reasons. The first is that I met again old friends, whom I had not seen in a long time. At present, they proclaim the Gospel in many parts of the world, each on their own mission.

The second reason is that I discovered the mission in Cambodia, a country with a fascinating culture where a young and vibrant Christian community offers everyone a joyful witness.

After performing my ministry in Italy for seven years, which included missionary outreach and studies, my superiors decided to send me to Japan this year. Asia has always been my dream and this destination makes me think that perhaps it was also God's dream for my life.

However, I must admit that what I knew about this great continent did not go beyond what I read in many books and articles, saw in some documentaries, and the stories of various friends who bear witness to their faith in Jesus in various Asian countries. Now something has changed.

For me, the ten days of training in Cambodia were a first taste of the great Asian continent. I cannot deny that the impact was strong: culture, language, climate and society are very different from any other place I encountered in the West. But rather than scare me such diversity has fascinated, seduced me. I cannot say I know Cambodia  that requires time  but the experiences I have had here have certainly had a profound impact on me and made me think.

For example, although we were all foreigners in our group, people were not afraid of us and greeted us with joy, and this made us feel at home.

How wonderful it would be if we received such a welcome everywhere in the world. If everybody could feel home at home . . . no one would feel like an outsider. We would all be citizens of the world on our way to our true homeland: heaven.

The life of the Cambodian Church made me reflect a lot. This is a small Church, a minority in the middle of an ocean of people belonging to other religions, especially Buddhism, who do not know Jesus.

I knew already that Christianity is a minority religion in Asia. But it is one thing to read about it in books, and it is another to see it with its own eyes. We travelled across the country, visited several places and met many people, miles and miles by car without seeing a single cross, church or image of the Virgin in front of which to pray Hail Mary. In Cambodia, the Church of Jesus is truly leaven in the mass, mustard seedlings in the middle of the fields, a small presence, almost invisible, but faithful and lively.

In addition to the missionaries attending the course we met a very special person, Ming Prakoth, sister of Mgr Joseph Chmar Salas, the first and only Cambodian bishop (whose cause of beatification is underway) who died when he was only 39 years old in September 1977 during the genocide committed by the Khmer Rouse regime.

Her story profoundly touched us all, especially since it is free of any form of hatred or rancour. Despite the atrocities experienced, her words conveyed hope and joy.

The witness of these people renewed in me the passion for the mission and I hope to be for the Japanese people what they were for their fellow countrymen, namely, wonderful tools of God's love.

Thank you, Cambodia! It was a truly beautiful experience. Asia is a challenge I welcome with joy. In a few hours, I will take the plane that will bring me back to Italy. On Sunday in Milan, I will receive the crucifix of departure and the missionary mandate for Japan. I am leaving from Asia, but it is to Asia that I will be back very soon.
by Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi

The bishop of Niigata and President of Caritas Japan comments on yesterdays papal message sent to the bishops of Japan. The journey stages of Card. Filoni, which will also touch Fukushima. The question of the relationship with the Neocatechumenal Way is still "unresolved".

Tokyo (AsiaNews) - "The Pope's message is an encouragement for all of us" to "rethink our attitude towards the mission ad gentes": The bishop of Niigata and president of Caritas Japan comments to AsiaNews on yesterdays papal message which Card. Fernando Filoni brought and read in front of all the Japanese bishops gathered in the nunciature in Tokyo. Also appreciated for the value placed on the charismatic movements, even if it there remains "an unresolved issue with one of these movements." The reference is to the contrasts that had occurred in the past with the Neocatechumenal Way. Card. Filoni, Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, will also go to Fukushima and Sendai to see the Church's commitment to tsunami victims.

The Cardinal Prefect has arrived Tokyo yesterday and at 6 pm, Sunday evening, had an official reception of the message of Holy Father to Japanese Bishops on the occasion of the Cardinal Prefect's visit to Japan.

Most of Japanese Bishops were there at the Chapel of Nuntiature in Tokyo to receive the message and welcome Cardinal Filoni. Unfortunately, the strong typhoon Talim prevented some Bishops from South to travel to Tokyo.

At 6 pm as we had sung hymn of Holy Spirit in Japanese, Cardinal Filoni first expressed his joy and hope of his first visit to Japan and said it is the Pilgrimage for him as he would visit Japanese Martyrs' Holy places and also Tsunami hit area.

Then he read the message of Holy Father in Italian. We received Japanese translation from the Ninciature.

After the message was officially handed over the the president of the Episcopal Conference of Japan, Archbishop Takami, we all proceeded to have evening meal together.

First and most, we are happy and grateful to receive personal and such intimate message from Holy Father. I thought it would be the announcement of Holy Father's visit to Japan but it was not. That was a bit of disappointment.

I am happy that Holy Father is in good knowledge of the history of martyrs in Japan which is precious gift to present Church community in Japan. Also I am grateful that Holy Father commended our efforts of inter-religious dialogue and protection of the creature. I was sure Holy Father is in understanding of our position against Nuclear energy policy in Japan after Fukushima disaster.

I am also delighted to read that Holy Father correctly pointed out our challenges in Evangelisation in Japan as a small minority community in the society. We quite often think these challenging situation in the society against Evangelisation is too huge to change, but the message of Holy Father is encouragement for all of us, not only for Bishops but for all of us in the Church community in Japan to re-consider our attitude towards to the mission ad gentes.

We believe that our charitable efforts in past 6 years in Tohoku area since 2011 disaster organised by entire Catholic communities in Japan and supported by Caritas Japan would be one of shining example of being light of the world through our own action among suffering. I hope Cardinal would have good chance to witness this reality when he visits Sendai on Friday. I will be there and will take Cardinal close to Fukushima area where we are still running volunteer base.

Then the point would be the last part talking about movements. As it is quite well known that Japanese Bishops have unresolved issue with one of these movements for quite sometime. We had number of exchange of opinions between Holy See and even with Holy Father.

I think I have to make it clear, at this point, that we, Japanese Bishops, are in full understanding and agreement with what Holy Father mentioned in his message to us about the charismatic importance of these movements. We are not denying existence of particular movement in the Universal Church. But what we are saying is these movements, whoever it is, quite often creates division among small communities of Catholics in many places in country like Japan where, sometimes, only 10 people in Sunday Mass are considered "many" by a parish priest. We are just hoping that these movements would have courage and willingness to discuss their modus operandi in their activities with local Bishops.

So today Cardinal will fly to Fukuoka and will meet with our Theology seminarians there, Then he will continue to Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Osaka and on Friday to Sendai. He will meet our Philosophy seminarians in Tokyo on Saturday, then will celebrate Mass with all Bishops in Tokyo Cathedral on Sunday.

He will have one full day to discuss all the issues on evangelisation in Japan with Bishops on Monday before he leaves for Rome on Tuesday.

Bishop Isao Kikuchi, SVD

Bishop of Niigata
The movement that controls the Strip open to dissolving the Administrative Committee, to holding general elections and new negotiations on a "unity government". But Fatah's number two preaches prudence: Evaluating "what's going-on on the ground before taking further steps".

Gaza (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Palestinian extremist movement Hamas, which has been controlling the Gaza Strip for a decade, is ready to dissolve the governmental committee and launch general elections for the first time since 2006. The leaders of the movement are also said to be open to new and additional talks with rivals Fatah, who are in power in the West Bank to put an end to a longstanding division that has so far exacerbated the suffering of the Palestinian population.

Hamas and Fatah's representatives met Egyptian negotiators in Cairo in the last few days, the venue for talks between the two groups. Commenting on the statements, Fatah leaders expressed appreciation for the words of Hamas saying they too were open to "negotiating" and form a "unity government."

In the popular note yesterday, the leaders of the movement controlling the Strip spoke of the "dissolution" of the administrative committee, the governing body of the area and rival of the Palestinian administration presided over by Mahmoud Abbas. At the moment it is unclear whether Hamas is available to transfer to Fatah also the control of its security forces.

Azzam al-Ahmad, head of Fatah's delegation in Cairo, stressed that "this step strengthens the unity of the Palestinian political faction and puts an end to the profound division that has caused so much suffering to our people." Fatah's number two welcomed the news, while reminding that there are still many open issues, including border control. "We want to see," he said, "what is happening on the ground before taking further steps."

In 2007, following violent clashes, Hamas took power in the Gaza Strip by defeating its rival Fatah. For years the (timid) attempts of the two factional leaders to form a unity government in Gaza and the West Bank have failed. The area is devastated by unremitting wars and subjected to a total block imposed by Israel, which causes chronic blocks to supply electricity and drinking water.

Within two million people living below the survival threshold, average unemployment is 60% and poverty is 80%. The same goes for Christian families, about 1300 people in total, one third of whom have no source of income. All in a territory of only 360 square kilometers, which has been transformed into a huge open-air prison.

To try to resolve the crisis, Hamas leaders - considered a terrorist group by Israel, the European Union and the United States - have repeatedly called for help from the Egyptian government, particularly for the production and supply of electricity. Last month, leader Yahya al-Sinwar announced the increased military capabilities of the group, thanks to the new alliance with Iran, the historic enemy of the Jewish state in the region.
by Santosh Digal

The Filipino army intervened near the mosque of the terrorists stronghold of Bato. Joy for his release. The conflict is about to end, but the city is destroyed. Plans for reconstruction. Mindanao bishops condemn terrorism.

Manila (AsiaNews) - Fr Teresito "Chito" Suganob, held in hostage by the pro-Isis Maute terrorist group, was released by the Philippine army on the night of September 16th, according to government sources.

The presidential peace councilor, Jesus Dureza, reports that the priest had been captured on May 23, at the outbreak of the crisis in the town of Marawi, provincial capital of Lanao del Sur, in the south of the Philippines. Fr. Chito was freed by the military from the mosque of Bato, one of the Maute strongholds. Together with him, a second hostage was released by the authorities, but they did not want to reveal the name.

Fr Chito, Vicar General of the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, was kidnapped along with other parishioners.

The rescue took place during the recovery of the mosque of Bato and the Amaitul Islamiya Marawi Foundation (Jimf) by members of the Marawi joint task force. Colonel Edgard Arevalo, head of the Philippine Armed Forces public affairs office, said: "It took five hours of fierce clashes before government forces defeated terrorists strategically positioned around the Jimf Mosque."

On May 30, a video appeared in social media showing Fr. Chito asking President Rodrigo Duterte to save him and the other hostages. In the film, he claimed to be detained as a prisoner of war along with other Church employees, a professor at Mindanao State University, some teachers at Dansalan Collage Foundation Inc., carpenters, housewives, children, Christian settlers, and tribe members . The military are still verifying the authenticity of that video.

At 7 am on September 14, the toll of people killed in the conflict was 670 Armed Mautes, 47 civilians and 147 government officials. Violence has also forced thousands of people to flee and destroyed large areas of the once lively city.

With the conflict seemingly coming to an end and the troops engaged in clearing operations, government officials report that it is presumed that Marawi's reconstruction will require billions of Philippine pesos. President Duterte has said that the first $ 50 billion fund [about 820 thousand euros] will not be enough to rebuild the city, after a four-month battle between government troops and terrorists.

Three battalions of military engineers are clearing some portions of the battlefield. Violent fighting left the buildings ruined, with walls filled with bullet holes.

Government authorities could take two weeks from now to accurately determine what is needed to rehabilitate Marawi.

Foreign aid is likely to be used for reconstruction. On September 15, Australia promised a billion pesos, the United States 730 million, Thailand 100 million, China 85 million (of which 70 to be used for the treatment of soldiers injured in action and 15 for the reconstruction of Marawi ), and the European Union 49 million.

On May 23, following the clashes between the army and terrorist groups, Duterte had declared martial law across the island of Mindanao.

Archbishop Martin Jumoad of Ozamiz expressed joy for the release of Fr. Chito. He said, asserting that it is "the result of our confidence in prayer". He added, "Many prayed for his freedom. So many masses were celebrated with this intention. The power of prayer is once again shown as a testimony to our solid faith in God. "

In May, the Catholic bishops of Mindanao had appealed for the release of the priest and parishioners who had been caught by the Mautes, urging people to pray for his release and for the victims of the conflict. They also condemned the terrorist attacks, pointing out that terrorism "distorts and falsifies the true meaning of religion".

For Msgr. Orlando Quevedo, Archbishop of Cotabato, terrorism "destroys harmony among people of different religions" and "creates a world of suspicion and prejudice, hatred and hostility." "We condemn terrorism in its most varied ways in the most absolute way. It is an ideology that is totally contrary to all principles of any religion of peace. Especially when terrorism is perpetrated while our Muslim brothers and sisters prepare for the sacred month of Ramadan."
by Melani Manel Perera

The initiative succeeded with Christians, Buddhists and Hindus. The Centre for Islamic Studies allowed guided tours of one of the capitals historic mosques. For Buddhist monk, the visit dispelled certain beliefs about Islamic traditions. Today many act and think badly about Muslims."

Colombo (AsiaNews)  The Centre for Islamic Studies (CIS) organised an Open Mosque Day at Colombos historic Akbar Mosque in order to promote understanding and appreciate diversity.

The mosque opened its doors to Christians, Buddhists and Hindus so that they could learn about the Islamic religion and traditions in Sri Lanka, especially at a time of renewed violence against Muslims.

Venerable Diyakaduwe Somananda Thero of the Buddhist temple Baddegewaththa Viharaya spoke appreciatively of the initiative to AsiaNews.

This is a positive effort, worthy of note, he said. It comes at a crucial time to dispel certain beliefs about Islamic traditions. Today many act and think badly about Muslims."

The interfaith event was very successful. In fact, Rahumananda Sharma, a Hindu priest at the Sri Karumari Amman Kovil temple in Panchikawatte said that he hopes "the CIS will organise guided tours in other mosques. All of the nation's population should have the opportunity to participate in events like this. This is very important."

The day was devoted to the learning Muslim values and traditions, and counter some biases that are widespread among non-Muslims.

Several Buddhist and Catholic women said that "before this event we had a bad opinion about the customs that touch women and Islamic marriage. Now, however, we understand that this is part of their religion."

For example, some asked why women wear the Islamic veil. They were told that the reason is the immense beauty of women, who must protect their body."

Participants were divided according to language: English, Tamil and Sinhalese. Everyone was taken to a guided tour, during which the guide explained the ritual of purification, i.e., the washing of hands and feet. After this, they were shown the prayer room (with separate areas for men and women) and some prayers.

Shifan Rafaideen, one of the guides, was pleased to be part of the initiative. "As a Muslim, it is important to participate in the process of raising awareness. Giving the right information and eliminating biases is the greatest work a Muslim can do."
During the pastoral visit of Card. Fernando Filoni, Prefect of Propaganda Fide, to the Land of the Rising Sun, Pope Francis urges the bishops and the Japanese Church to renew their missionary commitment to society, marked by suicides, divorces, religious formalism, material and spiritual poverty. The request to collaborate with ecclesial movements, perhaps in memory of the controversy with the Neocatechumenal Way.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "The Church in Japan must constantly renew its choice for Christs mission and be both salt and light": This is the appeal that Pope Francis addressed to the bishops of Japan in a letter issued yesterday by the Holy See Press office, marking a visit by the Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, Card. Fernando Filoni, to the Land of the Rising Sun. In the letter which the Cardinal read yesterday to all bishops gathered in the nunciature, the pontiff asks them to redouble their "missionary enthusiasm" and not to fear the "shortage of workers" that characterizes the Japanese Catholic community, about 600,000 faithful out of a population of over 120 million.

Warning against an "irenic and paralyzing dialogue" with society, the Pope asks them not to resign themselves to "the high rate of divorce, suicide among young people, people who choose to live totally disengaged from social life ( hikikomori), religious and spiritual formalism, moral relativism, religious indifference, obsession with work, and gain, as well as the material and spiritual poverty of the Japanese people. He also asks them to "go against the trend and trust in the Lord".

Finally, Francis exhorts them to collaborate with ecclesial movements. The Japanese bishops resist the presence of different ecclesial movements. In particular, in the past, there have been many questions about the evangelization style of the Neocatechumenal Way, judged by them too overwhelming and "sectarian". For this reason, the bishops wanted to close a "Redemptoris Mater" seminary in Takamatsu, which prepared missionary priests for the far east and that the work of neocatechumenals for at least five years was stopped. Pope Benedict XVI deliberated against this decision. The bishops demanded greater dialogue between the two sides.

Dear Brothers in the Episcopate,

the pastoral visit of the Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples gives me the opportunity to extend to you my cordial greeting, remembering our meeting on your visit ad Limina in March 2015.

I wish to entrust to you that, whenever I think of the Church in Japan, my thoughts return to the witness of the many martyrs who have offered their lives for the faith. They always have a special place in my heart: I think of St. Paul Miki and his companions, who in 1597 were sacrificed, faithful to Christ and the Church; I think of the innumerable confessors of faith, Blessed Justus Takayama Ukon, who at the same time preferred poverty and the path of exile rather than recanting the name of Jesus. And what about the so-called "hidden Christians", who from 1600 to the mid 1800s lived underground, not to recant, but to preserve their faith, and of which we recently remembered the 150th anniversary of the discovery? The long line of martyrs and confessors of faith, by nationality, language, social class and age, shared a profound love with the Son of God, renouncing either his civil status or other aspects of his social condition, all " in order to earn Christ "(Phil 3: 8).

Remembering that spiritual heritage, I turn to you dear brothers who have inherited it, and that with gentle solicitude continue in the task of evangelization, especially taking care of the weakest and favouring the integration into the communities of faithful from various backgrounds. I would like to thank you for this, as well as for the commitment to cultural promotion, interreligious dialogue and the care of creation. In particular, I would like to reflect with you on the missionary mission of the Church in Japan. "If the Church is born Catholic (that is, universal) it means that it was born" outgoing ", that it was born missionary" (General Audience on 17 September 2014). In fact, "the love of Christ pushes us" (2 Cor 5,14) to offer our life for the Gospel. Such dynamism dies if we lose our missionary enthusiasm. For this reason life is strengthened by giving it and it weakens itself in isolation and agitation. In fact, those who make the most of the chances of life are those who leave the safe shore and are passionate about the mission of communicating life to others "(Evangelii gaudium, 10).

I would like to dwell on the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus says: "You are the salt of the earth; [...] You are the light of the world "(Mt 5: 13-14). The salt and the light are in service. The Church as salt has the task of preserving from corruption and giving flavor; as light prevents darkness from prevailing, providing a clear vision of the reality and the end of existence. These words are also a strong appeal to fidelity and authenticity: it is necessary, that salt really gives flavor and light conquers darkness. The Kingdom of Heaven - as Jesus speaks of it - initially appears with the poverty of a little yeast or a small seed; this symbology reproduces well the present situation of the Church in the context of the Japanese world. To her, Jesus entrusted a great spiritual and moral mission. I know that there are no small difficulties due to the lack of clergy, religious and a limited participation of lay faithful. But the shortage of workers can not diminish the commitment of evangelization, indeed, it is an occasion that stimulates us to look for them incessantly, as the master of the vine leaves at all hours to look for new workers for his vineyard (cf. Mt 20: 1 -7).

Dear Brothers, the challenges that present reality places before us cannot allow us resign ourselves or even give way to an irenical and paralyzing dialogue, although some problematic situations create concerns; I mean, for example, the high rate of divorce, suicide among young people, people who choose to live totally devoid of social life (hikikomori), religious and spiritual formalism, moral relativism, religious indifference, obsession with work and earnings. It is also true that a society chasing economic development also creates among you the poor, marginalized, excluded; I think not only of those who are materially so, but also of those who are spiritually and morally so. In this particular context, it is urgent that the Church in Japan constantly renew the choice for the mission of Jesus, both in salt and light. The genuine evangelizing force of your Church, which also comes from being a Church of martyrs and confessors of faith, is a great asset to be guarded and developed.

In this regard, I would like to emphasize the need for a solid and integral priestly and religious formation, a particularly urgent task today, especially because of the propagation of the "culture of the provisional" (Meeting with seminarians, postulants and novices, July 6, 2013). Such a mentality leads above all to young people to think that it is not possible to really love, that there is nothing stable and that everything, including love, is related to the circumstances and needs of feeling. A major step in priestly and religious formation is, therefore, to help those who undertake such a journey to understand and experience in depth the characteristics of Jesus' love which is free, involves self-sacrifice and which is merciful forgiveness. This experience makes it capable to go against the predominant trends and trust the Lord, who does not disappoint. It is the testimony of which Japanese society is so silent.

I would like to also say a word about the ecclesial movements approved by the Apostolic See. With their evangelizing impulse and testimony, they can be of help in pastoral service and in the ad gentes mission. In fact, in the last decades, the Holy Spirit has aroused and inspired in the Church men and women who, with their participation, intend to nourish the world in which they operate, and not often, involve priests and religious, also members of that people that God calls to live fully his missionary life. Such realities contribute to the work of evangelization; as bishops we are called to know and accompany the charisms they are carrying and to make them part of our work in the context of pastoral integration.

Dear Brothers in the Episcopate, I entrust each of you to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and assure you of my closeness and prayer. May the Lord send workers into his Church in Japan and support you with His consolation. Thank you for your ecclesial service. I extend my Apostolic Blessing upon you on the Church in Japan and on your noble people as I ask you not to forget about me in your prayers.

FRANCIS

From the Vatican, September 14, 2017

Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
The United Nations Secretary-General comes out against the vote, saying it weakens the fight against the Islamic State. Iran is ready to close the border in case of independence. Rhetoric notwithstanding, Barzanis move is designed to keep himself in power. Israel backs Kurdistan, sending a message to the United States and Turkey.

Erbil (AsiaNews)  International opposition to the 25 September referendum on independence in Iraqi Kurdistan set for 25 September is getting stronger. After Europe, the United States and Turkey, Iran and the United Nations have criticised the possibility of secession. Only Israel has expressed support for a Kurdish state for economic, political and strategic reasons.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres yesterday criticised Kurdish leaders for the pro-independence vote arguing that it would detract from the fight against the Islamic State group.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that Guterres considers that all outstanding issues between the federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government should be resolved through structured dialogue and constructive compromise.

Iran also waded into the controversy with strong words, saying that it was ready to close the border with the Kurdistan Region and stop all the cooperation and security agreements if independence is proclaimed.

Iran definitely recognizes only the united, integrated and federal government of Iraq, said Ali Shamkhani, secretary general of the Iranian national security council.

Recent military and economic cooperation between Tehran and Erbil, based on Iranian logistical support to Kurdish forces (Peshmerga) against the Islamic State, proved essential in defeating the latter. Now, Shamkhani warned that Iran would end its current military and security agreements with Erbil.

If regional and world powers remain opposed to the referendum, Kurdistan experts believe that the referendum is just a political tool to put pressure on Baghdad.

For them Massud Barzani is using the referendum as leverage or pressure to end disputes with the Iraqi government over, among other things, Kirkuk and oil fields.

Barzani might also be using the referendum to maintain power, two years from the end of his term in office as president.

The issue is not whether the referendum will pass, but rather the turnout. If it doesn't reach 70 per cent, the poll will be a failure, some Kurdish officials said. In fact, not everyone in Iraqi Kurdistan supports the vote, especially among the current government's political rivals.

Against this backdrop, Israel is alone in openly supporting Kurdish independence. Many factors explain this support. Under its first prime Minister, David Ben Gurion, Israel developed a foreign policy doctrine based on an alliance of the periphery, i.e. close strategic ties with non-Arab Muslim states in the Middle East as well as an alliance of minorities", namely the Kurds and Drue.

Diplomatically, a Sunni but non-Arab entity could be a "bridge" used by Israel to interact with other regional states, some of which are openly hostile to the Jewish State.

An additional factor is economics. Kurdistan supplies 75 per cent of Israels oil, and is the recipient of Israeli investments in military, communication, infrastructure and energy fields.

Finally, by its support to the Kurdish cause, Israel is sending a message to the United States and Turkey, telling the first that its alliance with the Kurds is a way to stop Iran, and warning the second that its support for Hamas could be costly, and that the recent Israeli-Turkish rapprochement remains fragile and stormy.
Adelaide cafe installs Australias first EpiPen station





An Adelaide cafe is the first in Australia to install an EpiPen station for diners with allergies.

The EpiPen station has been installed at the Little Fig Cafe in Melrose Park and can be used if a diner suffers an anaphylaxis attack.

Allergy support organisation, Global Anaphylaxis and Inclusivity (globalaai) helped establish the EpiPen station at the cafe.

Owner of Little Fig Cafe, Hayley Ryan, said she was motivated to install the EpiPen station after her sister-in-law was diagnosed with a sesame allergy.

Having a diner suffer from an anaphylaxis attack is every cafe and restaurant owners worst nightmare, Ryan said.

There are so many food items that people can become allergic to and many of these are not obvious, for example capsicum and onion allergies.

Im committed to providing the safest possible environment for my customers and having a globalaai EpiPen station helps me to achieve this.

According to globalaai, up to 20 per cent of the population suffer from allergies.

globalaai was founded by South Australian, Dr Pooja Newman, after she nearly died when suffering a anaphylaxis attack at a concert.

Dining out is a stressful experience for people with allergies, Dr Newman said.

For some, all it takes is one bite to suffer a life-threatening reaction.

In this situation the availability of a publicly-accessible EpiPen station can quite literally save a life.

It is globalaais vision to see EpiPen stations installed in food outlets, event venues, shopping centres, schools, childcare centres, accommodation and healthcare facilities across Australia.

Related articles
Photo of flooded vehicles in Houston by the Texas Air National Guard.

Hurricane Irma was comparatively milder to the hurricane that flooded many parts of Houston.

The bulk of the damage that Florida sustained from the hurricane was caused by wind with only minimal flooding, meaning that it is expected that fewer vehicles will be declared total losses as a result of Hurricane Irma.

Online auction company Copart expects that it will process roughly 7,500 additional salvage vehicles as a result of Hurricane Irma. The additional volume due to Hurricane Irma will be pretty negligible to the Florida auction market; given that on average the company processes approximately 150,000 salvage vehicles a year in the state, noted Copart CEO Jay Adair.

John Kett, CEO and president for Insurance Auto Auctions (IAA) told Vehicle Remarketing that its still too early in IAAs recovery process to give an expected number of vehicles its auctions will take in as a result of Hurricane Irma. However, he did note that the company is expecting it to be a smaller event than Hurricane Harvey.

Many people are still in the process of returning to their homes in Florida and have not filed a claim to their insurance provider. If an insurance company doesnt have a claim filed then it cannot send an assignment to IAA to go recover a vehicle from a policy holder. As Florida residents return to their homes and begin filing their claims, IAA will then be able to form a clearer picture of just how many cars it will be taking in, said Kett.

IAA and Copart locations suffered minimal or no damage. They were able to resume operations immediately following the storm. They did have to run their buildings on generator power for a small amount of time.

Update on Houston

While the effect that Hurricane Irma had on the companies' operations in Florida was relatively mild, Houston was a different story.

A large percentage of the Houston was in multiple feet of water, opening the door to much more cars suffering flood damage, which in turn increased the forecast for vehicles heading to salvage auction when compared to Florida.

Kett said that IAA doesnt have a completely accurate number just yet, due to similar reasons noted for Florida, but it can say that it expects the number to be near what was collected from Hurricane Sandy.

In Houston, Adair told Vehicle Remarketing that Copart expects somewhere in the range of 85,000 vehicles.

Its a pretty major event for Houston, to say the least, said Adair.

This rise in volume is poised to double the amount of vehicles that Copart typically sells in Houston, given that on average the company sells 60,000 units a year in the city.

While the effects of Hurricane Harvey will definitely be felt in Houston, Adair doesnt think that the effects of both Hurricane Irma and Harvey will have much of an impact into the overall salvage industry. The salvage market sells about 4 million cars every year, and the additional volume brought by the two hurricanes just wont have any noticeable effect, he said.

The Real Challenge

The real challenge brought forth by the increased volume, specifically in Houston, is the logistical nightmare that is collecting and storing all these cars.

In Houston its more of a logistics thing. Having the land, the trucks and the logistics of getting the vehicles picked up when youre not used to doing that kind of volume. You have to ship trucks in from around the country, fly people in from around the country and house them. Its a massive logistics play but nothing Copart cant handle, and so far weve picked up about half [our projected] volume, said Adair.

Florida, he added, will be added work, but wont cause too many logistical issues. Copart has enough real estate to store 50,000 additional vehicles; the 7,500 expected vehicles in that state wont be a problem, Adair said.

IAA secured additional real estate in Texas and in Florida earlier this year and has been working to secure additional land as soon as it heard that hurricanes were headed toward those states. IAA has also been able to leverage the KAR family of companies to provide additional real estate when needed, said Kett.

Originally posted on Vehicle Remarketing
Courtesy of Black Book.

Wholesale used vehicles had their best weekly performance in two months, according to Black Books Sept. 11 Market Insights report.

Volume-weighted, overall car segment values were down 0.27% last week, compared to 0.36% the previous week. For the truck segment, overall values decreased by 0.15%, compared to 0.25% the previous week.

Prestige luxury and near luxury cars had the weakest showing among cars, with average wholesale values falling by 0.62% and 0.46%, respectively. Full-size cars had the strongest showing, with values flat compared to the previous week.

Among trucks, subcompact crossovers/SUVs saw the highest depreciation, with values falling 0.66% from the week before. Minivans and full-size pickups were the best performing segments, with values rising 0.15%, and 0.01%, respectively.

Black Book attributes this strong week, in part, to effects of Hurricane Harvey.

Dealers are actively looking to buy inventory and shipping vehicles to the Houston area, anticipating strong demand due to replacement of damaged units, said Anil Goyal, senior vice president of automotive valuation and analytics at Black Book.
Photo courtesy of Zipcar

Zipcar has announced the launch of its carsharing service in Reykjavik, Iceland. This marks the first major city launch for the brand in the Nordic countries.

Zipcar's expansion to Reykjavik brings carsharing to even more consumers who want access to a car in and around the city without having to own one.

Members will have access to a range of vehicles including Hyundai's i10 and Nissan's Leaf EV. Zipcars can be picked up from a designated parking bay and then returned to the same location, according to the company.

"We are delighted to be extending our international footprint to the Icelandic capital as a means to help the city reach its transportation goals over the coming decades, said Mark Servodidio, president, International, Avis Budget Group. This will be our first venture into the Nordic region and we looking forward to welcoming members in Reykjavik to our global network."

Zipcar's carsharing service has expanded to over 500 cities and towns across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. Recently, Zipcar launched in Costa Rica, its first city in Latin America.
Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.
Harold Pierce covers education and health for The Californian. He can be reached at 661-395-7404. Follow him on Twitter @RoldyPierce
Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism.
iStock/Thinkstock(BATON ROUGE, La.) -- The killings of two black men in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, last week "could possibly be racially motivated" but police are "still looking at other motives," Baton Rouge Police spokesman Sgt. L'Jean McNeely told ABC News Sunday.

Bruce Cofield, 59, and Donald Smart, 49, were both shot and killed within five miles of each other last week. In the shootings, the suspect first fired from his car and then exited the vehicle to shoot the victims while they were on the ground, according to police.

Witness accounts in certain circumstances and ballistic analyzation of the homicides helped link the two, Sgt. Don Coppola, a public information officer with the Baton Rouge Police Department, told ABC News Monday.

Police have named Kenneth Gleason, 23, as a person of interest in the investigation. Gleason was occupying a vehicle that matched the description of the one seen in the area of the killings, Coppola said.

On Sunday, Gleason was released from jail after being booked on two drug charges. Gleason has not been charged in relation to the killings.

This investigation is ongoing, Gleason is still a person of interest, and through the investigation, if it is learned that there is any other individual or individuals who could be other persons of interest, investigators will look into them as well, Coppola said.

Police had questioned Gleason for many hours and searched his home and his vehicle, but didnt have enough evidence to charge him in the murders, McNeely said.

But law enforcement found schedule 1 narcotics  marijuana  and schedule 3 narcotics, which were some kind of human growth hormone at Gleasons house on Saturday, Coppola said, and Gleason was arrested.

Gleason was released Sunday on bond, which had been set at $3,500, but has "not been cleared" in the investigation into the two shootings, police said.

Neither Gleason nor his family responded to ABC News request for comment.

Coppola said he was not aware if Gleason had any previous criminal record, and a background check showed only a traffic violation that had been dismissed by the court from earlier this year. Police declined to say whether there are other persons of interest in the case, citing the ongoing investigation.

Being that the investigation is ongoing, investigators are diligently working to have these homicides solved, Coppola said.

Police said Cofield, who was homeless, was killed on Tuesday. Smart was shot on Thursday while he was on his way to work at a cafe.

The district attorney's office had not responded Monday to ABC News' request as to whether Gleason has legal representation or when he is due to appear in court on the two drug charges.



Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved
Some major progress has been made on power outages across the Bay area. Duke Energy's territory is now 99 percent restored since Hurricane Irma ripped through the region one week ago.

Power now almost fully restored across Bay area

Duke Energy now 99% restored

Tampa Electric 100% restored

Lakeland Electric 95% restored

120,000 Florida Power & Light customers have power back

At the height of it, there were more than 1 million Duke customer's without power. Duke Energy said there are still about 110,000 customers without electricity.



Tampa Electric said it has restored power to essentially all customers. In total, 425,000 line, tree and other personnel -- from as far away as Oklahoma, Maine, and Nova Scotia, Canada -- worked around the clock, in 16-hour shifts, to restore power quickly and safely.

Lakeland Electric is about 95 percent restored, with only about 4,000 customers still without power. The company said it has 400 workers on the clock making sure everyone gets up and running by midweek.

Florida Power and Light is reporting just under 12,000 customers without power in Manatee County. Crews have already restored power to about 120,000. FPL said it has the largest workforce in its history--24,000 employees--working to get everyone back online.
A Tampa man has been charged in the fatal shooting of his neighbor.

Tampa police responded to the Yacht Club subdivision late Saturday night regarding reports of shots fired. Police found a victim, identified as Matthew Downey, 57, deceased with gunshot wounds.

The shooter was later identified as Brian Baker, 57, who remained at the scene and was taken into custody.

Police determined Baker and Downey are neighbors and were known to each other. At this time it is unclear what led to the shooting.

Baker has been charged with 2nd-degree murder and the case remains under investigation.
Pinellas County is working with federal agencies to provide help for local businesses affected by Hurricane Irma.

Small Business Administration opens recovery center in Pinellas

SBA reps can provide info 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday

Low-interest, long-term disaster loans available through SBA

FULL COVERAGE: Hurricane Irma: After the Storm



The U.S. Small Business Administration opened a Business Recovery Center at Pinellas County Economic Development at St. Petersburg College's EpiCenter to assist Pinellas County businesses impacted by the storm.

SBA representatives at the center can provide information about disaster loans, answer questions and assist businesses in completing the SBA application. The center is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.



The SBA offers low-interest, long-term disaster loans for physical damage and working capital. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 9, 2017. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 11, 2018.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application via the SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela

Loan applications can be downloaded from https://www.sba.gov/ and must be returned to a recovery cent or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76155.

To receive additional information on the disaster loan program, call the SBA's Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-977-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Businesses that suffered physical damage and need financial help while waiting for SBA assistance can also contact Pinellas County Economic Development about applying for Florida's emergency bridge loan program. Please visit PCED.org/Irma.

Pinellas County companies requiring assistance with Bridge Loans can call (727) 453-7200. For assistance with other items, call Economic Development's main line at (727) 464-7332.

Businesses are encouraged to report any damage from Hurricane Irma through the Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center. This is the primary portal for private sector damage assessments and recovery. The information provided in this survey will be shared among various state and local agencies to expedite implementation of appropriate disaster relief programs for businesses. Visit PCED.org/damage.

Pinellas County citizens can get updates on Irma recovery efforts by visiting www.pinellascounty.org.
For a fourth consecutive day, protesters flooded the streets of St. Louis outraged over the acquittal of a white officer, Jason Stockley, in the fatal shooting of a black man.

St. Louis protesters upset over acquittal of cop in black man's shooting

Anthony Lamar Smith was shot 5 times after high-speed chase

More than 80 people arrested Sunday night



We need more and better opportunities for all our citizens, but destruction cannot be tolerated," Mayor Lyda Krewson said.

Although protests were under control Monday morning, the mayor said in a late Sunday night news conference that the days have been categorically calm and nights "destructive."

Im proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and police owned the night," said Lt. Larry OToole, Acting Police Commissioner of the St. Louis Police Department.

Police arrested more than 80 people Sunday night as peaceful marches again turned violent. They also say they confiscated at least five weapons, none of which were used.

Journalists heard officers chanting, Whose streets, our streets as they made arrests, according to the Washington Post.

But, the damage was already done: broken windows, destroyed property.

The anger that has boiled over revolves around the shooting death of a black man, Anthony Lamar Smith, who was killed following a high-speed chase in 2011. He was shot five times.

I am appalled at what happened to Anthony Lamar Smith, sobered by this outcome. Frustration, anger, hurt, pain, hope & love all intermingle. pic.twitter.com/nezvtIDBQC  Mayor Lyda Krewson (@LydaKrewson) September 15, 2017

And although the Mayor tweeted she was sobered by the outcome of the verdict and understands many wont find comfort or justice in what happened, it has not quelled the violence or stopped the marches from rolling on.
Oregon Coast Scientists Worry About Microplastics in Oysters, Clams: Video

Published 09/13/2017 at 7:17 PM PDT - Updated 09/13/2017 at 7:18 PM PDT

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Oregon Coast)  Oregon Sea Grant and researchers at Portland State University are checking into a disturbing possibility: tiny bits of plastic in some seafood being harvested commercially and recreationally on the Oregon coast. A new video and other information released by Oregon Sea Grant shows the agency and PSU scientists Elise Granek and Britta Baechler literally digging into the issue.

The big concern is the multitude of microplastics floating in the ocean, and are these being digested by the food we eat? Oregon coast scientists are inspecting the guts and tissues of razor clams and oysters and then checking them thoroughly in a lab at PSU. If nothing else, the chemicals within the plastics might harm animals if eaten.

Microplastics can come from foams, tiny beads in facial creams, synthetic fibers from clothing, and disintegrating plastic bags, according to Baechler and Granek. These are defined as objects less than 5 mm.

Our goal is to figure out if we have them in our oysters and clams, and if so, are they at problematic levels? said Baechler, a PSU masters student who is working on the Oregon Sea Grant-funded project under the guidance of PSU marine ecologist Elise Granek.



Oysters and clams are indiscriminate feeders, eating everything that can be filtered into their systems. Once they ingest plastic they cannot get rid of it.

With help from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Baechler dug up razor clams at nine sites along the Oregon coast and bought oysters at five locations to see if there are areas where microplastics are more prevalent. She collected the shellfish in the spring of 2017 and again this summer to see if microplastics are more common during certain times of the year.

Afterwards, the oysters and clams were taken to Granek's lab at PSU, where they were measured, weighed, shucked and frozen so they could later be dissolved in potassium hydroxide. Doing so leaves behind only a clear liquid containing sand and any plastics that may have been in the organism. Then, they have to analyze these under a microscope  a process that is still ongoing. The group is still examining the first batch of creatures that were dissolved and not all results are in yet. There remain many more to be dissolved as yet, and the group hopes to have this done by the end of September.

Not all the results are in yet.

Ultimately, were hoping that this study brings awareness to Oregonians and even visitors to the state of Oregon that plastics that we use in our daily lives make their way into the environment, Baechler said in the video. Were also hoping that our partners, like Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and other state agencies, might take this information to learn about hot spots for microplastics to address the problem. Oregon Coast Lodgings for this - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours



















More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

Coastal Spotlight



LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net

All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted
It appears, meteorologist Casey Curry and KTRK-TV have unceremoniously parted ways after 11 years on the weather wall.

Back in August, TV insider blog FTVLive reported ABC 13 was planning to hire meteorologist Collin Myers from Austin's KEYE-TV for a weekend morning position. Elita Loresca, who was already the weekend morning meteorologist, was bumped up to the 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. newscasts.
Washington County Detention Center

A Maryland man is being extradited to Newton County to face trial in the 2016 murder of his ex-girlfriend, Sheriff Billy Rowles said.

Adam Wayne Orndorff, 36, is currently in the custody in Washington County, Maryland and recently signed an extradition waiver in the murder investigation of his ex-girlfriend Krystal Hyatt, 20.
A new Anthem policy that took effect July 1 for local plan members in Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri and Wisconsin drives patients who need outpatient imaging services to freestanding facilities. The policy went into effect for members covered in Ohio on Sept. 1.

Under the new policy, AIM Specialty Health began reviewing the requested level of care for imaging services; patients admitted to the hospital will be covered for outpatient imaging services at hospital-owned facilities, but all other requests for outpatient imaging will be steered toward freestanding centers. Members who undergo outpatient imaging services at hospital-owned facilities deemed medically unnecessary in the setting will be responsible for the entire bill.

Pediatric patients are included in the new policy and will be driven to freestanding imaging centers that meet criteria for pediatric patients if they are available; if not, pediatric patients will be able to undergo outpatient imaging at hospital-owned facilities.

Outpatient imaging services at freestanding facilities are typically less expensive than the same services at hospital-based facilities, meaning members that pay a percentage of the overall cost out-of-pocket could see reduced costs; members with facility copay plans likely won't see a reduction in their out-of-pocket expenses.

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Missouri Senior Clinical Director Jay Moore, MD, told the St. Louis Dispatch the insurer saw cost differential of around 500 percent between the hospital-owned and freestanding facilities.The new policy could decrease spending on outpatient imaging services.

In the past year, Anthem stopped paying for "unnecessary" emergency room visits, including those for the common cold or sore throat, in select states. Instead, the insurer instructed customers to seek care in lower cost settings such as urgent care facilities. The St. Louis Dispatch hinted the payer could take further steps to rein in costs, which could include driving care such as surgery to the most cost-effective setting.

Other payers may be moving in that direction as well; RAC Monitor reports a memo from Humana notified providers earlier this year that 145 surgeries on the inpatient-only list could now be performed in the ASC for Humana Medicare Advantage patients, including total knee and hip replacements, cervical spine fusion and carotid artery stenting.
Bowling Green, Ky.-based TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital broke ground on TriStar Greenview Surgery Center in Bowling Green, according to Bowling Green Daily News.

Here are five things to know:

1. The ASC is a partnership between the hospital, local physicians and Bowling Green-based Graves Gilbert Clinic.

2. The surgery center is 14,000 square feet.

3. The hospital is building the $10 million ASC to meet patient demand.

4. TriStar Greenview Surgery Center will house three surgical operating suites and one procedure suite.

5. The hospital scheduled to open the facility in summer 2018.
How will healthcare reform affect ASC planning and development?

Scott Kulstad, executive director of musculoskeletal services at Minneapolis-based Fairview Health Services and a member of the board of directors for Minneapolis-based Ridges Surgery Center and Fairview Maple Grove (Minn.) Surgery Center, discusses how to approach strategic planning in today's volatile healthcare environment and what to expect in the future.

Join Mr. Kulstad at the Becker's ASC 24th Annual Meeting  The Business and Operations of ASCs on Oct. 26 to 28 in Chicago. Mr. Kulstad will speak on a panel about the future of ASC development amid healthcare reform. Click here to learn more and register.

Q: What future healthcare reforms do you expect to affect ASCs and physicians the most?

Scott Kulstad: The next several months, I believe we will see the following reforms:

 Reimbursement will continue to decline, and payment parity will accelerate the migration of cases to the outpatient/ASC settings;

 Medicare will remove inpatient only designation on certain procedures (i.e., TKA), which will accelerate the migration of cases to the OP setting;

 Employers and payers will direct cases to lower cost settings more than they have historically.

 Technology will (continue to) transform how, when, and where patients access care, information, and engage with providers, including those in the ASC.

Q: Where is the biggest opportunity for ASCs to succeed in healthcare today?

SK: No. 1: collaboration with hospitals. The systems will work best when there is equilibrium, collaboration and clinical integration.

No. 2: appropriate titration of cases. The ASCs will succeed when they appropriately titrate the cases that can  and should  move from the hospital outpatient department to the ASC with those that should remain in the HOPD. There is plenty of volume that will move out of the hospitals, but ASCs that move clinically inappropriate cases to the ASCs will risk losing more than they gain if/when there are complications.

No. 3: Maintain focus on high-reliability systems to ensure cost effectiveness, high quality outcomes and patient safety.

More articles for surgery centers:

20 states with the most ASCs

Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites performs Massachusetts' 1st total hip replacement

Illinois health system opens new surgery center4 insights




Success in the current healthcare landscape is often intertwined with a practice's ability to adapt to change. To navigate the many tides of the industry, ASCs and surgical hospitals must learn best practices crucial to driving superior clinical, operational and financial performance. During a webinar sponsored by Cardinal Health, leaders within the healthcare sector can learn how to identify such practices and implement them at their respective organizations.

During the webinar, Jenks-based The Center for Orthopaedic Reconstruction & Excellence Oklahoma's Kim Morris, director of materials management, and Beverly Morris, director of surgical services, will share their insights with attendees as to how the surgical hospital employed best practices to support its performance goals all the while bolstering the patient experience. Deb Miller, RN, MS, senior consultant of clinical operations for Cardinal Health, will also present alongside the CORE team, sharing her experience about helping surgery centers devise and implement best practices to drive optimal performance. The presenters will discuss ways surgery centers and surgical hospitals can employ data analytics to yield information that can help practices thrive in healthcare today.

Surgery center and surgical hospital leaders will also learn how to truncate waste in their facilities by reining in supply chain costs. Without managing item usage, surgery centers and surgical hospitals put themselves at risk and the presenters of this webinar will give key ways facilities can maximize procedure pack programs to fare well in the competitive health landscape.

Tune in Sept. 20 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. CT to learn how your practice can bode well moving forward by implementing strategies discussed during the webinar. To learn more and register, click here.




Arkansas Department of Human Services officials said they plan to notify affected Medicare beneficiaries of an incident in which multiple spreadsheets of personal and health information were emailed to a former employee, according to a Sept. 15 news release obtained by the Arkansas Times.

The Arkansas DHS reportedly learned about the breach Aug. 7 while preparing for a lawsuit related to an individual's alleged wrongful termination. The attorneys representing the Arkansas DHS discovered the spreadsheets, which contained 26,044 unique names of Medicaid beneficiaries with linked Medicaid identification numbers, some social security numbers and codes for medical procedures.

The former payment integrity coding analyst initiated the lawsuit after being fired March 24, according to the Arkansas Times. DHS Spokesperson Amy Webb told the Arkansas Times there is no evidence the breach has led to any instances of identity theft. However, she noted the former employee emailed the spreadsheets from her work email to her personal email March 23, one day before her termination.

"It was not an accidental email," Ms. Webb told the Arkansas Times. "We do believe the employee had awareness that she was about to be terminated, and after a conversation with the supervisor in which it was pretty clear she was going to be terminated, she then  sent the files to her personal email account."

The Arkansas DHS is working with attorneys to recover the spreadsheets. The department has also contacted the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney's office to pursue criminal charges and prosecution.

Editor's note: Becker's Hospital Review reached out to Arkansas Medicaid for comment and will update as more information becomes available.
Start your week off right by taking a look at some of Becker's Hospital Review's top stories from last week.

Physician's resignation drives Virginia hospital to close

Stuart, Va.-based Pioneer Community Hospital of Patrick began diverting patients from its ER Wednesday before announcing later in the day that it will soon close within days.

Former Cleveland Clinic executive charged in $2.7M fraud scheme

The former executive director of Cleveland Clinic Innovations, the development and commercialization arm of Cleveland Clinic, has been charged for his role in a conspiracy to defraud the hospital system out of more than $2.7 million.

UPMC fires several employees after they ogled, photographer anesthetized patient with genital injury

Several physicians and employees at Everett, Pa.-based UPMC Bedford Memorial were disciplined after a state investigation revealed a "ton" of employees crowded into an operating room to take photos and videos of a patient without consent.

Tenet explores strategic options, including sale: 9 things to know

Shares of Tenet Healthcare surged 14 percent Wednesday shortly after The Wall Street Journal reported the Dallas-based hospital operator hired banking advisors to evaluate strategic options, including a sale of the company.

Missouri hospital to close next week

Fulton (Mo.) Medical Center, the only hospital in its county, is set to close Sept. 22, which has caused the local ambulance district to make changes to ensure patients receive the care they need.

Police shoot, kill armed Irma evacuee at North Carolina hospital

The man police shot and killed late last Sunday at Novant Health Huntersville (N.C.) Medical Center was traveling from Florida to New York to escape Hurricane Irma.

CEO of Florida's Mount Sinai: 12-year hurricane preparedness project enabled our hospital to stay open during Irma

Steven Sonenreich serves as president and CEO of Miami Beach-based Mount Sinai Medical Center, south Florida's largest private independent nonprofit teaching hospital.

With Congress stalled, White House looks to roll back ACA regulations

Though Congressional ACA repeal efforts stalled earlier this summer, President Donald Trump's administration has been steadily rolling back ACA regulations.
The following healthcare mergers, acquisitions, partnerships and general transactions took place or were announced during the past week.

1. ProMedica affiliate to acquire Indiana dental benefit provider

Maumee, Ohio-based Paramount Health, an affiliate of Toledo, Ohio-based ProMedica, signed an agreement Sept. 15 to acquire Health Resources, a dental benefit provider in Evansville, Ind.

2. Kaiser Permanente, Target to open 31 retail clinics in southern California

Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente revealed plans to launch 31 retail clinics in Target stores across southern California.

3. St. Luke's Health Network, Blue Mountain Health to form 9-hospital system

Blue Mountain Health System, a two-hospital system in Lehighton, Pa., revealed its intent to join St. Luke's University Health Network, a seven-hospital system in Bethlehem, Pa., Sept. 13.

4. HealthPartners to acquire Hutchinson Health

Hutchinson (Minn.) Health's board of directors declared their intent Sept. 13 for the organization to affiliate with Bloomington, Minn.-based HealthPartners.

5. Jefferson Health completes Kennedy Health merger

Officials at Philadelphia-based Jefferson Health announced the completion of the health system's merger with Kennedy Health, a three-hospital system in Voorhees, N.J., Sept. 14.

6. CVS to buy 6 ProMedica pharmacies, close 5

Woonsocket, R.I.-based CVS Health will acquire six of ProMedica's outpatient pharmacies with plans to close five of them.

7. Ardent Health, U of Texas joint venture to acquire proposed 10-hospital system

A joint venture between Nashville, Tenn.-based Ardent Health Services and Austin-based The University of Texas System will acquire Tyler-based East Texas Medical Center Regional Healthcare System, officials announced Sept. 13.

8. RCCH HealthCare, U of Washington Medicine in talks to partner with Washington health system

Kennewick, Wash.-based Trios Health is in talks to partner with Brentwood, Tenn.-based RCCH HealthCare Partners and Seattle-based University of Washington Medicine.

9. New York hospital to merge with University of Vermont Health Network affiliate

Ticonderoga, N.Y.-based Moses-Ludington Hospital will reportedly merge with Elizabethtown (N.Y.) Community Hospital, an affiliate of Burlington-based The University of Vermont Health Network.

10. Navicent Health, Emory Healthcare form surgical partnership

Macon, Ga.-based Navicent Health and Atlanta-based Emory Healthcare embarked on a collaborative surgical partnership Sept. 13.

11. Quorum finalizes deal to sell Illinois hospital, marking second divestiture in 1 week

Brentwood, Tenn.-based Quorum Health signed a definitive agreement Sept. 12 to sell Vista Medical Center West, a 70-bed facility in Waukegan, Ill., to New York City-based US HealthVest.

12. Yale New Haven, Connecticut Children's Medical Center table partnership talks

Yale New Haven (Conn.) Children's Hospital and Hartford-based Connecticut Children's Medical Center tabled talks to combine operations Sept. 11.

13. Quorum Health signs definitive agreement to divest Alabama hospital

Quorum Health signed a definitive agreement Sept. 11 to sell L.V. Stabler Memorial Hospital, a 72-bed facility in Greenville, Ala., to the Health Care Authority of the City of Greenville  L.V. Stabler Hospital, a public corporation.
Hospitals and health systems nationwide embarked on a significant buying spree of physician practices over the last few years.

Overall, hospitals acquired more than 30,000 practices between 2012 and 2015 alone, indicating the number of hospital-owned physician practices increased by 86 percent. As of mid-2015, the latest data available, one in four practices was hospital-owned.

Behind those 30,000-plus acquisitions are thousands of valuations, a key part of the process that is required by law. During an acquisition, the valuation component can make or break a deal. It is critical to have a compliant business valuation that follows the many rules and regulations surrounding transactions. Here, a team of experts from Principle Valuation, a member of Prism Healthcare Partners, based in Chicago, shares 14 key things to know about physician practice valuations. Based on their experience conducting hundreds of physician valuations, the group's insights include an overview of the process, common issues that can complicate or prolong a valuation and trends in how valuations have changed in the past 5 years.

An overview of physician practice valuations

1. Regardless of the form of the transaction or the assets purchased, under the Stark and Anti-Kickback Statutes, the hospital or health system cannot pay an amount in excess of Fair Market Value for the assets.

2. Health systems typically purchase practices outright, assuming 100 percent ownership of the practice, although they can purchase some other level of equity ownership. In most cases, along with purchase of the practice, a future compensation or employment arrangement with the physician/owner is negotiated as part of the final transaction.

3. Specific assets considered when valuing a practice include real estate, furniture and equipment, medical records and workforce. Occasionally, a tradename will also be valued, but this would only occur if the practice's name was going to continue to be used after the acquisition. While there tends to be desire for physicians to sell their accounts receivable, most hospitals shy away from this, as historical aging and collection policies tend to be inconsistent, creating a high risk of collection.

4. A purchaser should decide which assets they will acquire from the practice, assess the overall future compensation of the physicians, commission a valuation to determine the allowable Fair Market Value of the practice and negotiate with the physicians to meet at or below the Fair Market terms. The purchaser should retain valuation experts and legal counsel to verify the transaction complies with Stark and Anti-Kickback statutes.

Understanding the valuation process

5. The practice group's specialty has a significant impact on the valuation, and it must be analyzed with like specialties. Other valuation considerations include the age of the practice, age of the physicians and clients.

6. The valuation process involves assessing operations and the outlook for the practice's future. An appraiser reviews the historical financial statements and makes adjustments for any items that are nonrecurring or non-business related. Valuation experts then prepare a forecast of operations based on information provided by management and the appraiser's knowledge of the industry. This forecast, generally speaking, is agreed upon by both the buyer and seller as being a fair earnings expectation for the practice over the foreseeable future.

7. Gathering data and getting both parties to agree on earning expectations tend to be the most time consuming parts of the process. This is especially true of profitable practices that may have value in excess of what physical assets may suggest. Further, few physician practices maintain extra financial staff to gather the necessary information, and it takes time to gather the data from the practice.

8. The valuation expert usually provides an Information Request List at the time of the proposal, but this important piece of the process can also be time consuming. It is likely not new for the health system, but more than likely new to the physician or group. The more health systems communicate clearly and directly with the physician or group, the better the chances of a successful deal.

9. The process of valuing medical records considers whether they are electronic, paper-based or some hybrid of the two. Appraisers generally value medical records on a cost-to-recreate approach, including the average time and materials needed to maintain a record.

Potential complications and recent valuation trends



10. No matter what the specialty, market value varies and should be considered as a range as opposed to a specific point.

11. Location, and specialty by location, matter significantly. Costs in rural areas are generally less than urban areas. But organizations often need to entice physicians to work in a rural setting, which can ultimately drive their costs to be equal, or even more, than those in an urban area.

12. If the doctor or group has various investments within the practice, such as owning real estate or holding minority positions in other businesses like an ambulatory surgery center or imaging center, it can complicate the valuation. Service line carve-outs of ancillary businesses from the practice can also add complexity and time to the valuation.

13. In the past five years, asset purchases have been on the rise.

14. Physicians increasingly want to partner with hospitals to receive the hospital's better insurance reimbursement rates and have more access to various carriers, reduce or streamline the burdensome business management of the practice that independent practitioners face and have an employment contract with an established entity.

Valuation is a required component of any physician practice acquisition. To ensure a smooth and compliant transaction, make sure you partner with an appropriate valuation firm that brings ample industry knowledge and experience with the many rules and regulations, along with a track record of success.
Becker's Hospital Review reported on the following events related to hospital-union relationships  including rallies, strikes, petitions, elections and contracts  so far in September.

1. Nurses picket California hospital amid contract negotiations

About 30 nurses at Los Robles Hospital & Medical Center in Thousand Oaks, Calif., picketed over staffing.

2. 150 healthcare workers ramp up for protest at Kaiser headquarters

Unionized healthcare workers announced plans to protest at Kaiser Permanente's headquarters in Oakland, Calif.

3. University of Illinois Hospital averts strike with tentative labor deal

Nurses at Chicago-based University of Illinois Hospital reached a tentative agreement with management, averting a planned strike.

4. Care New England hospital workers picket over pay, benefits

Employees at Kent Hospital in Warwick, R.I., part of Providence, R.I.-based Care New England, advocated for what they consider a fair contract during an informational picket.

5. Providence St. Peter, workers reach labor deal with raises

Employees at Olympia, Wash.-based Providence St. Peter Hospital ratified a contract with management that includes across-the-board raises and a $15-per-hour minimum wage.

6. Due to unclear billing protocols, Virginia Mason Memorial workers protest health benefits

Yakima, Wash.-based Virginia Mason Memorial employees and supporters protested over the hospital's new healthcare plan and what they say are unclear billing policies related to the plan.

7. Berkshire Medical Center accuses Massachusetts union of bad-faith bargaining

Pittsfield, Mass.-based Berkshire Medical Center said it filed an unfair labor practice charge against the Massachusetts Nurses Association, accusing the union of "surface bargaining," as opposed to negotiating in good faith.

8. Shasta Regional Medical Center nurses vote to unionize

Nurses at Redding, Calif.-based Shasta Regional Medical Center voted 241 to 27 in favor of unionization.

9. Judge: Affinity Medical Center, union must resume contract negotiations

U.S. District Judge Benita Pearson said Massillon, Ohio-based Affinity Medical Center and its owners must negotiate with the National Nurses Organizing Committee, an affiliate of National Nurses United.

10. Maine Coast Memorial nurses deliver petition over staffing

Nurses at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth are calling on officials to improve staffing at the facility.

11. Sutter Health's plan to close sub-acute care, skilled nursing units prompts opposition from nurses, patient families

Nurses and patient families rallied against Sacramento, Calif.-based Sutter Health's plans to close the skilled nursing and sub-acute units at California Pacific Medical Center St. Luke's campus in San Francisco.

12. Hospital workers join Labor Day 'Fight for $15' events

Hospital workers nationwide reportedly advocated for a $15-per-hour minimum wage and unionization during various Labor Day marches across the country.
Insurers are limiting access to less addictive pain medications as they tend to be more expensive than opioids, according to an investigative report conducted by The New York Times and ProPublica.

Here are five things to know.

1. Journalists analyzed the Medicare prescription drug plans for 35.7 million people from the second quarter of this year. Just one-third of covered individuals had access to Butrans, a painkilling skin patch that contains the less addictive opioid buprenorphine. Additionally, all plans that covered non-addictive, painkilling lidocaine patches required patients to get prior approval for the drug. Conversely, every plan covered commonly prescribed opioids, most without requirements for prior approval.

2. The report details the story of a patient named Alisa Erkes who, for two years, used Butrans to treat her abdominal pain. In January, her insurer UnitedHealthcare stopped covering the drug, which cost the company $342 for a four-week supply. Ms. Erkes switched to long-acting Morphine, which costs $29 for a month's supply.

3. In a statement, UnitedHealthcare said Ms. Erkes had not exhausted her appeals and that the company would work with her physician to find the best option for treatment.

Matthew Wiggin, a spokesperson with the insurer, told the Times, "All opioids are addictive, which is why we work with care providers and members to promote non-opioid treatment options for people suffering from chronic pain."

4. While drugmakers, drug wholesalers and physicians have come under intense scrutiny in recent years regarding their respective roles in the opioid crisis, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers have garnered less critical attention. However, there are signs to suggest this could change soon. Last week the New York State attorney general's office sent letters to CVS Caremark, Express Scripts and Optum Rx inquiring as to how the PBMs were addressing the opioid crisis.

5. Tom Frieden, MD, the head of the CDC under former President Barack Obama, said insurers with minimal exceptions had "not done what they need to do to address" America's opioid overdose crisis, according to the Times. Dr. Frieden said it's easier for patients to get opioids than it is for them to get addiction treatment.

To read the full report, click here.

More articles on opioids:

Netflix's Heroin(e) documentary shines light on women fighting West Virginia's opioid epidemic

IHI to develop intervention tool for safer opioid prescribing

Tacoma, Wash., files suit against 3 drugmakers for alleged role in opioid epidemic
More than six months after proposed Anthem-Cigna and Aetna-Humana mergers collapsed, four economists testifying in the cases met in Chicago to discuss the deals' sticking points and implications.

Here are Becker's Hospital Review's three takeaways from the conference, hosted by Evanston, Ill.-based Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management Sept. 14.

1. The Anthem-Cigna merger failed, in part, because it couldn't prove large efficiencies  a point further incensed by public feuding. Indianapolis-based Anthem and Bloomfield, Conn.-based Cigna argued their combined size would allow them to negotiate lower prices for consumers. Ultimately, they couldn't prove the efficiencies, said David Dranove, PhD, professor of health industry management at Kellogg School of Management. Hired Anthem witness Mark Israel, PhD, senior managing director at Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm Compass Lexecon, added distinctive to the Anthem-Cigna failure was the "parties were publicly, openly and violently fighting."

2. The Aetna-Humana merger failed, in part, because of how the court defined relative market. Aviv Nevo, PhD, an economics professor at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, said Hartford, Conn.-based Aetna and Louisville, Ky.-based Humana fell short on convincing the Justice Department their Medicare Advantage plans compete with original Medicare.

3. A Cigna-Humana merger is on the table. The economists agreed a merger between Cigna and Humana could have a different outcome than the other failed mega-mergers, as Cigna is not a large Medicare Advantage player like Humana and neither payer is very big. While Mr. Nevo said there's a "reasonably good chance that  we will see another attempt" by payers pursuing mergers, Mr. Dranove noted Cigna is entrenched in a legal battle with Anthem over their failed deal, and it's "not clear they'll participate in the near term."
President and CEO of Asheville, N.C.-based Mission Health System Ron Paulus, MD, told Citizen-Times negotiations between the health system and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina in Durham are nonexistent.

A contract between the two parties ends Oct. 5. However, their negotiations are "basically nowhere," Dr. Paulus said. Mission Health declared plans July 5 to leave BCBSNC's provider network due to rate reductions. In response, BCBSNC said it would not negotiate with Mission Health until it lifted the termination.

Dr. Paulus added, "While I don't have a crystal ball and will always hope for the best, based upon current circumstances and Blue Cross's communications, I would imagine we will be in calendar 2018 prior to any agreement."

In response to Citizen-Times' request for comment, BCBSNC spokesperson Austin Vevurka said the payer is "committed to making sure our customers are able to get the care they need." Another BCBSNC spokesperson April Umminger did not provide the publication a projection of when or if a deal may be reached.



For the full report, click here.
Water tests conducted at Missoula, Mont.-based St. Patrick Hospital revealed the presence of Legionella bacteria. The tests were prompted after providers identified a case of Legionnaires' in a patient who may have contracted the illness at the hospital, according to NBC Montana.

The hospital is working to eliminate the bacteria from the water supply and installing medical-grade water filters on faucets and shower heads. Josh Christensen, MD, infectious diseases physician at St. Patrick Hospital, told KPAX the infection risk to patients is low and said he doesn't expect to see further patient complications related to the bacteria.

"My wife and I are having a baby next week, and we're going to have him here at the hospital," Dr. Christensen told KPAX. "I don't have any concern."

The CDC is reportedly working with the hospital to address the issue, according to NBC Montana. The infected patient's identify has not been disclosed.

Legionnaires' is a virulent form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. It is not transmitted via person-to-person contact, but rather through the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water.

More articles on infection control:

Top 10 infection control stories, Sept. 11-15

San Diego washes city streets with bleach amid hepatitis A outbreak

4 patients infected with hep C due to New York physician's alleged poor infection control practices
To continue following the latest news and information for Bedfordshire and surrounding areas, simply enter your full postcode below
Japanese postal department reportedly released postage stamps to spread Yoga awareness around the country. According to media reports, it is the first time that Japan has released postal stamps on Yoga experts. The stamp has the picture of yoga legend Bishnu Charan Ghosh. The Japanese Council in Kolkata has reportedly said that this will create a cultural linkage between India and Japan.
Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Owen Smith last night warned Prime Minister Theresa May there was a "clear and present danger" to Northern Ireland manufacturing jobs because of a trade dispute between US aerospace giant Boeing and Canadian plane-maker Bombardier.

The US company alleges Bombardier - which employs thousands of staff here - received unfair subsidies, including loans from the British and Canadian Governments, which allowed it to sell its CSeries aircraft at below-market prices.

But the Pontypridd Labour MP said in his letter that it would be devastating to the province's economy if Boeing's claims against the Canadian firm were upheld.

"I cannot stress enough how concerning this damaging trade dispute is to the people of Northern Ireland," he wrote.

"As you are no doubt aware, the CSeries aircraft wings were developed and are manufactured in the UK at Bombardier's Belfast facility, where it employs over 4,200 people.

"Bombardier is the largest manufacturing company in Northern Ireland and produces around 10% of Northern Ireland's total manufacturing exports.

"Your government has made much of our special relationship with the United States and the ease with which we expect to secure favourable terms of trade in the years after Brexit. This issue is an early test of those promises to the British people.

"If Boeing do not to drop the case, which relates to a plane for which Boeing makes no competitor aircraft, and the preliminary duty determination due on September 25 were to rule in its favour, the subsequent application of tariffs on CSeries aircraft would deal an immensely damaging blow to the Belfast facility, the people of Northern Ireland, and to UK manufacturing."

In his letter, Mr Smith also calls on Mrs May to reveal the contents of her conversation last week with US President Donald Trump on the Boeing-Bombardier dispute.

"I welcome reports that you have intervened directly in this matter by raising the issue in a telephone conversation with President Trump," he wrote.

"However, I remain profoundly concerned that there is no indication that Boeing are set to withdraw their action - and without that step there is a clear and present danger that the Bombardier plant in NI and the many thousands of jobs it supports are in jeopardy."

The Labour MP also sought assurances from the Prime Minister that Bombardier jobs in Northern Ireland would not be sacrificed for a post-Brexit free trade deal with the United States.
The owner of Ten Square is expected to get the go-ahead to build 53 homes at Castlehill Road in east Belfast (stock photo)

Property developer Paddy Kearney looks set to get the green light this week for a new housing development in east Belfast.

The owner of Ten Square is expected to get the go-ahead to build 53 homes at Castlehill Road in east Belfast.

His company, Kilmona Holdings, is seeking planning permission for the development - made up of 33 semi-detached homes, three detached and 16 two-bedroom apartments - in addition to open space, landscaping and associated access.

The application was originally brought before Belfast City Council's planning committee, but was deferred.

It received almost 30 letters of objection, predominately around an environmental impact assessment and the "potential disturbance and loss of property value", according to a report.

But the development is expected to be approved at tomorrow night's Belfast City Council planning committee meeting.

Paddy Kearney is planning to develop a series of huge office buildings across the city over the next few years in order to help meet a severe shortage of top-end office space in Belfast.

These include a 55m office development for the city.

The Lanyon Central development, which would sit beside Central Station in Belfast, was given the green light in September last year.

It is due to be made up of four buildings, 14-storey and 10-storey office blocks, along with two smaller structures.

Belfast City Council is also offering up almost 19m to businesses to encourage the development of high-quality office space. It's now actively seeking proposals for its 18.8m City Centre Investment Fund.

The council said it "is seeking to invest in high-quality, substantial city centre office developments and has called for expressions of interest from companies who have secured planning permission for their projects".

Belfast Lord Mayor Nuala McAllister added: "Our city centre regeneration and investment strategy highlighted that the lack of grade A office space in Belfast city centre is currently a real barrier to growth."

Meanwhile, more than 1,300 homes could be built in Co Antrim along with a new motorway road link as plans progress with an ambitious scheme.

Developers have submitted a pre-application notice for the development of a new link road on the M1 motorway at Sprucefield and the Knockmore Road junction outside Lisburn.

The application has been made by developer Neptune Carleton.

A consultation is due to take place at the end of this month to gauge public opinion over the plans.
Emotions ran high as a Belfast mother and daughter duo were told to rethink their act by The X Factor judges in Sunday's episode.

Debye Gaskin (40) and her 23-year-old daughter Hayley Norton, known together as Descendance, performed a rendition of Macklemore's Can't Hold Us, complete with rapping from both, as well as singing.

They are originally from Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan, Canada, but now live in west Belfast and regularly sing in bars around the city, including The Monico Bars and Filthy McNasty's.

Last night, the judges - Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh - were torn over the pair, and advised mother Debye to step back to let her daughter shine through on her own.

Osbourne told Hayley that she was "phenomenal", and that she loved Debye's spirit, but that she "should be the DJ in the booth and join in on some of the vocals".

Walsh added: "I was thinking something similar, I was watching (Hayley) all the time, you are an amazing performer, you were in your own little world and I believed every bit of it."

Scherzinger described the younger of the two as "super dope and really relevant right now".

Speaking to mother Debye, she said: "I think it'd be cool for you to have involvement in some way like Mrs O said, you're so cute together, you're a great team."

Agreeing with her co-star, Osbourne said what Descendance did was "odd".

Expand Close Descendance (C) Syco / Thames / ITV Plc Syco / Thames / ITV Plc / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Descendance (C) Syco / Thames / ITV Plc

Hitting back, Debye responded: "We don't think it's odd."

Cowell replied: "I'm going to be really honest with you, it's not great.

"What you've done for your daughter is incredible because you have an amazing relationship, but it is quite rare that we see someone like (Hayley). The fact you are happy to do this with your mum makes me like you even more."

Cowell said he did not want to be rude, but "it doesn't work".

Becoming increasingly emotional, Hayley said: "I won't do it with anyone else."

Despite the disagreement, the judges give them four yes votes to take them through to the bootcamp stage, with Cowell advising them to think about how to continue in the competition.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Another act that made it through to the next round was 16-year-old Chloe Rose Moyle, whose own song, Holding Out For Us, saw her described as "quirky and charming" by Cowell.

Full-time father Gary Barker (29) got four yes votes after he was given a second chance to audition after he was told his version of Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars was not original enough. Elsewhere, Cowell was wowed by Taliah Dalorto (19) and her rendition of Ain't No Way by Aretha Franklin, saying: "You have no idea how much I wanted to find someone like you today."
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Rico Rodriguez attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: TV personality Julianne Hough attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Sterling K. Brown (L) and Ryan Michelle Bathe attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Anna Chlumsky attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: TV personality Giuliana Rancic attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Actors Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Jeffrey Nordling attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Anthony Anderson (R) and Alvina Stewart attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Edie Falco attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor William H. Macy attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Sofia Vergara attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: TV personality James Corden (L) and producer Julia Carey attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Jane Fonda attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Millie Bobby Brown attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Felicity Huffman attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Mandy Moore attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Uzo Aduba attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Susan Kelechi Watson attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Ellie Kemper attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Regina King attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Deon Cole attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Michelle Pfeiffer attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Kate McKinnon attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actors Mandy Patinkin (L) and Kathryn Grody attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Tracee Ellis Ross attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Lea Michele attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Vanessa Kirby attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Ariel Winter attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Emmy Rossum attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Shailene Woodley attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Reese Witherspoon attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Zoe Kravitz attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Shannon Purser attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: LL Cool J attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Alec Baldwin (L) and Hilaria Baldwin attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Rashida Jones attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actor Mary Elizabeth Winstead attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Miles Brown arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Ron Cephas Jones arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Ruby Modine arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Laverne Cox arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Angela Sarafyan arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Sarah Hyland arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Tessa Thompson arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Actress Sonequa Martin-Green arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Yara Shahidi arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Jessica Biel arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Jessica Biel arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Debra Messing arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Evan Rachel Wood arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Sarah Paulson arrives for the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Mark RALSTONMARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The stars of television made their way to the red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday to celebrate another fantastic year on the small screen - and, as always, the fashion was phenomenal.

While some may have chosen to be a bit more daring with their sense of style, this year the red carpet looks were kept very simplistic, making for a great gallery.

Here's seven of the best looks on this year's red carpet.

1. Nicole Kidman

Expand Close Nicole Kidman attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Nicole Kidman attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The actress was a big winner on the night as she picked up the outstanding lead actress in a limited series or movie gong - but she also won the credits for her dress.

Stepping on to the red carpet with husband Kieth Urban, Nicole wore a stunning red Calvin Klein dress.

2. Thandie Newton

Expand Close Thandie Newton attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Thandie Newton attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The UK actress may have lost out in the outstanding supporting actress prize, but she looked amazing in this dusty pink strapless ball gown from Jason Wu.

3. Sofia Vergara

Expand Close Sofia Vergara attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Sofia Vergara attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Known for her stunning curves, Sofia once again dressed to impress in this mermaid-style Mark Zunino dress.

4. Mandy Moore

Expand Close Mandy Moore attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Mandy Moore attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

This Is Us actress Mandy arrived in a strapless black and white Carolina Herrerra tiered gown.

5. Reese Witherspoon

Expand Close Reese Witherspoon attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Reese Witherspoon attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The Big Little Lies actress went for a Stella McCartney blazer dress.

6. Jessica Biel

Expand Close Jessica Biel attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Jessica Biel attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The actress arrived in this stunning champagne pink Ralph & Russo couture dress from the designers' Autumn Winter 2017/2018 Couture collection.

7. Viola Davis

Expand Close Viola Davis attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Viola Davis attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The Oscar winning actress is known for bringing bold colours to the red carpet and she arrived in an orange Zac Posen gown.

Honourable male mentions:

Expand Close Tituss Burgess attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Tituss Burgess attends the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Expand Close Actors Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Actors Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
Belfast songwriter Bap Kennedy's last album has been shortlisted for a local music prize.

In a career spanning 40 years, he enjoyed acclaim as a solo artist but also collaborated with Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler and Steve Earle

Twelve albums are in the running for the Northern Ireland Music Prize In Association With Blue Moon 2017, including Kennedy's Reckless Heart.

His widow Brenda Boyd Kennedy said: "(I am) delighted to find out that Bap's final album Reckless Heart has been shortlisted.

"Great news and many thanks to all involved."

Kennedy died last year from pancreatic cancer aged 54.

The winner will be announced at an awards night at the Mandela Hall in Belfast.

More than 70 judges were contacted from the music industry and music media and invited to cast their votes for the best album of the last 12 months.

There will be a second round of voting and the winning album will be announced at the November 11 event.

SOAK and Ciaran Lavery are among past victors.

Charlotte Dryden, CEO of the Oh Yeah Music Centre, said it had been a great year for music in Northern Ireland.

"It's going to be a great 10 days and the Prize and Legend Awards evening will be a fitting end to another celebration of all that is great about local music."

This year's entrants included:

Arborist - Home Burial

Arvo Party - Arvo Party

Bap Kennedy - Reckless Heart

The Divine Comedy - Foreverland

Gross Net - Quantitative Easing

Hannah Peel - Awake But Always Dreaming

Invaderband - Invaderband

Joshua Burnside - Ephrata

Malojian - This Is Nowhere

Our Krypton Son - Fleas & Diamonds

Robocobra Quartet - Music For All Occasions

Sea Pinks - Watercourse
A man is being treated in hospital for gunshot wounds to both hands and legs after a paramilitary style shooting in west Belfast.

It happened on Sunday evening just before 9.30pm.

It was reported to police that a man had been shot a number of times at a grassed area in the Norglen Parade area.

The man aged in his 30s was taken to hospital following the incident where he is being treated for gunshot wounds to both hands and legs.

Detective Inspector Rowland said: This was a brutal and savage attack on a man in a densely populated residential area and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information which could assist us with our enquiries to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101 quoting reference number 1371 17/09/17. Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The DUP has been accused of missing an opportunity to secure compensation for victims of Libyan-sponsored IRA terrorism.

TUV leader Jim Allister said it should have been part of the party's deal with the Conservatives after the June election.

It emerged on Friday that the Government had rejected a call for a UK reparations fund for those affected by Semtex supplied by former Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi.

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, which had called for the compensation scheme, said the response was unacceptable.

And Mr Allister said the DUP had wasted a chance to pressure the Government into action.

"The Government is saying this is a matter for civil litigation, but that is not the attitude which the American government took," he said.

"The American government went in to bat for their people and got them compensation, and I would expect no less from the British Government.

"The DUP had the leverage to get the Government to that point and they should have used it."

The Gaddafi regime supplied arms, funding, training and Semtex to the IRA for some 25 years.

Libyan-supplied Semtex was used in bombings including Harrods department store in London in 1983; the Enniskillen Poppy Day blast in 1987 and Warrington in 1993. In May a report by the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee criticised the failure of successive UK governments to pursue compensation from Libya on behalf of the victims of Gaddafi-sponsored terrorism.

MPs called for a reparations fund if no progress was made with the Libyan authorities.

However, the Government response, published on Friday, rejected the recommendations.

It said: "HMG has considered in detail the feasibility of establishing such a fund and at this stage has concluded that it is not a viable option."

Mr Allister added: "This campaign has been ongoing for a long time.

"It's clear that the Government has been resisting full engagement and dealing with issues like the assets of Libya, which are in London.

"So it occurred to me - and I'm sure a lot of people - that when you have leverage, that is one of the issues on which it should have been used.

"I think victims are let down by the failure to do this."

The DUP did not respond to a request for comment.

The rejection of a compensation fund drew criticism from MPs, campaigners and victims of IRA violence.

Jonathan Ganesh, a survivor of the 1996 Docklands bomb, said: "This is perhaps one of the worst injustices in the history of the United Kingdom.

"What the UK Government has done is shameful, they expect victims, many of whom have suffered severe trauma, are in wheelchairs, suffer PTSD and have colostomy bags, to take on the Libyan government."
Sam Blevins, the subject of a tale of Robin Hood-style border smuggling from times past (Family handout/PA)

Sky's Ireland correspondent held his hands up this week with a very personal family tale of Robin Hood-style border smuggling from times past.

David Blevins' Co Armagh grandfather Sam Blevins twice served time in prison after confessing to an eight-year career spiriting tea, butter, then cigarettes across the frontier.

It was the early 1950s and a period of post-war scarcity.

He gave away the spoils to hard-pressed neighbours but the thrill of the chase and out-smarting the law kept him going.

His grandson researched his story during a feature on smuggling for the Sky News broadcaster.

Mr Blevins said: "He just got a buzz from his clandestine escapades.

"Accounts of him out-running police cars, on both sides of the border, have gone down in folklore."

The UK's plan to leave the Customs Union after Brexit has raised concern about an upsurge in smuggling across the Irish border, taking advantage of differing tax arrangements.

At one stage it was virtually a way of life, from profiteering by the IRA during the Troubles to the more benign brand displayed by people like Sam Blevins - the man they called Ulster's Robin Hood.

The 1950s was a tough time to bring up a family.

Rationing from the Second World War years ended in that decade.

Mr Blevins lived close to Portadown and worked as a fruit dealer with ambitions.

A grocer expecting a raid by Food Ministry inspectors had asked him to sell some tea, with his merchant taking a cut of the profits.

The farmer's son earned a handsome bounty and never looked back.

David Blevins said at the height of his cross-border game his grandfather was making 300 a week, a lot of money back then, b ut he was losing just as much - some 20,000 in fines and in the value of goods and cars seized.

"I am not ashamed of my past," he would say. "Everyone was smuggling when stuff was scarce.

"If only I had stopped," when making more than losing, "I would have been on top of the world.

"The one really big mistake of my smuggling career was when I decided to keep going."

Generosity saw him distribute much of the windfall diverted from official coffers to neighbours and, in a twist of irony, they persuaded him to run for a seat at Stormont.

Mr Blevins added: "So the North Armagh constituency had an unlikely independent candidate on the ballot paper in the 1958 election.

"He didn't win but the honest confession of his shady past had gained him an unexpected admirer.

"When Sam died suddenly, aged 54, the Rev Ian Paisley turned up and participated in his funeral."

On both sides of the political divide, there was a cultural ambivalence about "subsistence smuggling", Mr Blevins said.

Fifty years after his death, people still talk about Sam the smuggler who stood for election.

His campaign slogan was: "Thank heavens, here's Blevins."
The most personal and probing interviews: Robbie Butler, Lagan Valley UUP MLA on a day that will forever haunt him, why he got into politics and his love of fostering

Q. You're 45 and married to nurse Belinda (41), with whom you have two children, Robyn (18) and Adam (16). Where did you meet?

A. I first saw her when we were schoolkids. She was nearly four years younger than me, so the age gap wasn't good when I first noticed her.

Then when we were older I met her at Lisburn swimming pool one night. I asked her out and that was it.

We got married in Lisburn Cathedral on September 6, 1996. We went to Gran Canaria on honeymoon - it was possibly one of the worst holidays. It was a cheap hotel, we weren't party animals and our room was right above the disco, which went on to about 5am.

Q. Your wife and you have also been fostering children for the past decade. What got you into that?

A. We provide emergency and respite care primarily for primary school-age children, although we've also helped a couple of 16-year-olds.

Even though our kids were still young, we could see there was a need in the community for fostering.

Initially I didn't think we'd have the space or time as we both work full-time, but the way the fostering is set up we found we could.

We haven't been able to do it for 18 months with me changing jobs, but we've recently been reassessed and we'll probably be fostering again very soon.

Q. Does any one child stand out in your mind?

A. Our first experience was with a two-and-a-half-year-old boy. He was still in nappies, wasn't speaking and had behavioural issues.

But just two weeks after being placed in a caring, stable environment, he was toilet-trained, was starting to talk and had stopped the wee behavioural things he had.

It was really good to see how quickly you can affect a child positively, regardless of their background. We had him for two months. That's our fuel for continuing to do it.

Q. You went into local politics (with the old Lisburn Council) in 2014 before becoming an MLA last year. Why politics?

A. All my life I've had a desire to see Northern Ireland succeed and to see political representation for everybody.

I was aiming to do it when I retired around 55 because I enjoyed the fire service so much but, genuinely, looking at the political situation and the MLAs at the time, I thought that I could do a better job.

Q. You left school at 16 to become a butcher before entering the Prison Service and finally the Fire and Rescue Service. Briefly detail your career to date.

A. I was a butcher for eight years. In 1996 I started working as an auxiliary prison officer and then joined the fire service in 2000. I started as a recruit fire fighter and left as a watch commander to become an MLA.

Q. Did you meet any notorious criminals during your time as a prison officer in Maghaberry? Did you get any threats or feel threatened?

A. I was meeting people I'd seen on the news face-to-face, like Billy Wright (visiting) and Johnny Adair. That was strange. I really enjoyed working in the prison service.

There was a lot of pressure internally and externally and there was always a threat. You had to be aware of your personal safety. There was guilt about putting your family through that.

I also got verbal threats - "We know where you live" - and they did know where I lived.

Q. As a fireman you must have saved plenty of lives. Which incident that you attended has affected you most?

A. It was in 2001 at a well-developed fire in a house in Belfast. There were two people inside. We could see somebody, but it was too late. Despite our best efforts it was obvious that the fire had been burning unreported for a time, and the people perished.

You join the fire service to protect and save life, so it's the worst instance. The fire is absolutely secondary to saving lives and making a difference.

When you extinguish a fire it's an empty feeling because you feel like you failed to do what you wanted to do and you run through a series of choices - if only there had been an alarm, if only someone had alerted us earlier.

Seeing someone at a window trying to get out and not being able to save them is something that stays with you.

Q. You're a deacon at Maghaberry Elim Church. Do you have a strong faith?

A. Yes. I go to church twice on Sundays. As a deacon I carry out certain duties - taking collections and giving out communion - and I have a say in the direction of the church.

Q. What does God mean to you?

A. I became a Christian when I was eight. My Sunday School teacher convinced me that God loved all of us and had a plan for each of us. Even now I'm convinced that he was right.

Q. And what about death? Does it frighten you?

A. Death doesn't frighten me, because of my faith. It would frighten me if I thought there wasn't something better on the other side.

Q. Tell us about the best day of your life so far.

A. They were the days that my kids were born.

Q. It wasn't plain sailing with the birth of Robyn, your first child. What happened?

A. I was totally unprepared for childbirth. When I saw what actually happened with Robyn I promised my wife that I wouldn't put her through that again. I had a shock.

We actually had to wait two or three hours for a consultant to come in. The baby was stuck and the midwives seemed comfortable with it, but as a first-time dad-to-be I was panicking. I was really worried for both mother and baby until the little one finally came out. She didn't even cry. I have no idea why she didn't after all she'd gone through.

Q. Was that the most traumatic thing you've been through in your life?

A. My wife lost her mother, Vivian Vallance, on July 2, 2004. She was only 60 and died from ovarian cancer. She had 18 months from diagnosis until death. I'm very proud of how my wife dealt with it, but at the time it was very hard.

Q. Which politician from the so-called 'other side' do you most admire?

A. Nichola Mallon, the SDLP's new deputy leader. The fix for Northern Ireland would be in establishing relationships with people you trust. It doesn't always have to be with someone who shares all of your views, but people who you believe are genuine and who are reasonable in the articulation of their position and allow you to have that same room.

These people are precious and at the minute they're rare in Northern Ireland. I think Nichola is one of those people.

Q. How do you feel about the current stalemate?

A. I thought we'd moved beyond putting personal agendas above the health, wellbeing and wealth of all the people.

But it looks like we're moving back into a very politicised agenda, which is very disappointing and validates my reason for getting into politics.

I'm not here for comfort - I got into this because I thought something needed to be done.

Q. You are UUP spokesman on mental health. What role to you think social media plays in mental health, and how do you feel about bloggers using it as a platform for their issues?

A. Mental health is a complex issue and there's no silver bullet. For some people the ability to share will probably help. There is, however, an argument that, because it's not controlled, some people with a mental health condition may be vulnerable.

What I have learnt in my life is that good people do good things. Northern Ireland needs a mental health prevention strategy and it should start in schools.

Q. How do you relax outside politics? I understand you're a Boys' Brigade (BB) officer.

A. These days, fitting in the BB once a week is sometimes a struggle, but I love it because I really believe in trying to champion young people and giving them some sort of direction. I'm trying to be a role model. This year we have 29 boys aged 11 to 18.

Outside the church the most important thing for me would be if Liverpool or Northern Ireland are playing.

Q. Apart from your wife, if you were in trouble who is the one person you would you turn to?

A. My best friend, Bill Waring (73), a retired BT sales manager. I've been friends with Bill since I was 17. He gives sound advice and has been a tremendous help.

Q. Who was your biggest inspiration growing up?

A. My mum. She sowed the seeds for my outgoing, positive, caring personality.

Q. And who is your best Catholic friend?

A. I've had Catholic friends since childhood. I genuinely have so many that it would be poor form to highlight one of them as a particular favourite.

Q. Tell us about your parents and siblings.

A. Robert (66) is a retired bar manager and Marylin, who's in her 60s, was a homemaker. I'm the oldest of five kids - William (44), a butcher, Pamela (43), a retail assistant, Sheree (39), a classroom assistant, and Gemma (34), a care assistant.

Q. You've always lived in the Lisburn area, first in Derriaghy and then Low Road. Did you have a happy childhood?

A. Up until I was 10 we lived in Milltown and my memory is of going over fields and streams, doing boys' stuff. We moved house when I was 11. I went from a country upbringing to town and there was an adjustment to be made. It wasn't necessarily easy, but it was good.

Q. You went to Derriaghy Primary then Forthill Primary and Lisnagarvey High School. Did you ever go to university?

A. I went to Jordanstown in my 40s to study developing management practice. It was part-time over two years when I was in the fire service.

Q. What's your favourite place in the whole world? Why?

A. Komandoo in the Maldives. We spent six days there last year for our 20th wedding anniversary. It was the holiday of a lifetime.

Q. What's your favourite place in Northern Ireland?

A. I've a really romantic memory of Bangor. It was my Sunday School trip as a child and when I go there it takes me back to that happy place.

Q. If there was one thing you could change about yourself, what would it be?

A. I would have a wider outlook on what I could have been in life at an earlier stage. I would've been a pilot, not a butcher.

Q. Do you have, or have you ever had, a nickname?

A. Bamm-Bamm, because I had a 'curtains' hairstyle when I joined the Prison Service in 1996. It's from the character Bamm-Bamm Rubble in The Flintstones - the one Barney and Betty adopt.

Q. If the Assembly collapses, what's next for you?

A. Pilot!
John O'Dowd said Arlene Foster was living in a fools' paradise if she thought powersharing could be restored at Stormont without progress on the language question

Sinn Fein has branded as "insulting" a claim by Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster that the republican party is using the Irish language to "humiliate" unionists.

Senior party figure John O'Dowd criticised Mrs Foster's remarks and said she was living in a "fools' paradise" if she thought powersharing could be restored at Stormont without progress on the language question.

The DUP's refusal to sign off on a Sinn Fein demand for a free-standing piece of legislation that would enshrine statutory protections for Irish speakers is the key roadblock preventing the re-establishment of a coalition executive in Belfast.

Talks to restore powersharing, which collapsed at the start of the year, remain stalled with little sign of progress on the horizon.

Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire has warned the region is on a "glide path" to a form of direct rule from Westminster if the impasse is not resolved within weeks.

While the DUP is prepared to countenance legislative protections for Irish as part of a wider piece of legislation that also incorporates the Ulster Scots culture, the party is set against a free-standing Irish language act.

Mrs Foster repeated that stance in a radio interview on Sunday.

She told BBC Radio Ulster: "Sinn Fein has decided to ring-fence a free-standing Irish language act in a way that frankly makes it impossible for those who want to move forward but see this is just being used as a way to humiliate unionists and those of us who believe in a British way of life."

Two weeks ago, Mrs Foster said the Irish language itself threatened no-one and called for an immediate restoration of powersharing and a parallel negotiation process to deal with the language issue and a series of other disputes between the two main parties.

Mr O'Dowd said her remarks on Sunday showed that forming an executive before the issue was dealt with would have been "folly".

"The parallel negotiations would have went nowhere and there was no intentions of resolving the outstanding issues, including an Irish language act," he said.

"If the DUP want back into the executive and they are serious about reforming an executive then they have to understand the only basis on which that executive will be formed will be on the basis of equality, rights and respect and entitlement for all, including the Irish language speaking community."

He added: "Quite frankly Arlene's Foster's comment about Sinn Fein's motivation behind the Irish language act are quite simply insulting.

"They quite clearly haven't been listening to what Sinn Fein have been saying to them, about the motivations behind an Irish language act the reasons for an Irish language act - the need to build a society based on the rights and entitlements of all citizens."

Formal roundtable talks involving the five main Stormont parties and the UK and Irish governments have still not resumed after they were parked for the summer.

Sinn Fein and the DUP are instead engaged in a series of private meetings - discussions that are due to continue this week.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood urged the two governments to present a draft deal to the parties within days.

"As co-guarantors of all our political agreements, it is now time that they forcefully step in to forge a deal that can accommodate both the Irish and the British traditions in the north," he said.

"All parties should then be publicly challenged to sign up to them or reject them.

"The public have long since run out of patience with this talks process and they're dead right. If the general mood was originally frustration, it has now turned to farce."

The Ulster Unionists met Mr Brokenshire on Monday to discuss the crisis.

UUP MLA Steve Aiken said: "We made it abundantly clear that we need to be moving on and the secretary of state told us that time is indeed running out."

Mr Aiken said the smaller parties had to be involved in the process.

"We need to be part of those conversations and we need to be part of those conversations now - we need to see that happening," he said.

Alliance Party deputy leader Stephen Farry gave a bleak assessment of the talks.

"What we are seeing is the trenches being dug ever deeper," he said.

"Not even megaphone diplomacy but parties painting themselves into ever deeper corners in terms of their public statements."

He added: "The issues don't seem to be any clearer in terms of resolution and, as time goes on, we continue to see untold damage occurring in terms of our public services and in terms of missed opportunities in terms of our economy."
Police are investigating an 'aggravated burglary' in Ballyhalbert on Sunday.

A man has been taken to hospital after masked men broke into his house in Ballyhalbert on Sunday night.

Detectives are investigating reports of an aggravated burglary at a house in the Longfield Way area of the town.

At approximately 11pm, a gang of masked men with hammers forced their way into a house where they assaulted one of the male occupants with hammers. The man was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

A second male who was also in the house was not injured during the incident.

Detective Sergeant Niall Bell is appealing to anyone who noticed anyone acting suspiciously in the area to contact detectives at Criminal Investigation Branch on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 1525 17/09/17.

Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.
A member of the watchdog that sets MLAs' pay has repeated his call for their salaries to be stopped, as Arlene Foster said the threat of reducing wages shouldn't be used against politicians.

The DUP leader told BBC Radio Ulster's Sunday News programme that reducing salaries couldn't be used "as a stick" to secure a deal, and the idea of pay cuts as an incentive was "quite offensive".

But Alan McQuillan - who sat on Stormont's Independent Financial Review Panel - last night hit back at Mrs Foster's comments.

"Not having a government is offensive," he said. "Not having anybody at Stormont to approve cancer tests and drugs which could save lives is offensive.

"Not having politicians doing the job they are well paid to do is offensive.

"The mock fight taking place between the DUP and Sinn Fein as urgent issues in health, education and the economy go unaddressed is offensive.

"Northern Ireland is being held to ransom by its politicians and it's time the British Government said 'enough is enough' and stopped their pay."

SDLP deputy leader Nichola Mallon last night said nobody "should be paid for a job they are not doing".

She stated that if the DUP and Sinn Fein couldn't "get a deal over the line", London and Dublin must outline their proposals for moving the situation forward.

Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire last week said he would consider a pay review if the current political deadlock wasn't broken.

But Mr McQuillan, a former PSNI Assistant Chief Constable, claimed the Government was reluctant to take action.

"James Brokenshire clearly doesn't want to cut MLAs' pay," he said.

"On the one hand, we have the DUP with a political knife to the Government's throat at Westminster. On the other hand, the Government has spent 20 years supporting Sinn Fein building itself up financially and they don't want to throw that away.

"But the reality is we have no government. There is nobody to approve the new bowel cancer test that could save lives. There is nobody to approve potentially lifesaving drugs for cancer patients.

"It's shameful how our politicians are behaving and it's shameful the British Government, the real government, isn't intervening."

In her BBC interview yesterday, Mrs Foster said cutting MLAs' salaries couldn't be used "as a stick" to secure a deal.

"It is quite offensive, I have to say, to those of us who have stood for election, who want to get on with the job of government, that people think if they make a threat of pay reduction that it will act as some sort of incentive," she said.

The DUP leader insisted that if anybody thought "the threat of reducing my pay is in some way going to make an agreement more possible - they don't really understand me and they don't really understand the people that stand for election".

Mrs Foster said the pay issue would have to "be reassessed if there is no government or if there is no prospect of government".

She said that, despite useful, intensive talks between the DUP and Sinn Fein recently, there were still "significant issues" between the two parties.

She was "very disappointed" at Sinn Fein's rejection of her proposal to legislate for the Irish language within a set time period if the Executive was restored immediately. Mrs Foster denied the offer was "too little, to late".

She said: "Sinn Fein has decided to ring-fence the free-standing Irish Language Act in a way that, frankly, makes it impossible for those of us who want to move forward but see that this is just being used as a way to humiliate unionism and those of us who believe in the British way of life."

Sinn Fein MLA John O'Dowd said the DUP leader needed to "make her mind up" on the Irish language.

"She has said no one has anything to fear from the Irish language and then claims that an Act would be a humiliation for unionists. That's simply preposterous," he said.

"It's well past time to stop talking about restoring the Executive and get on with the task of doing it."

Meanwhile, the Ulster Unionist Councillors Association unanimously supported a motion at the weekend stating there was no need for an Irish Language Act.
'This is the first time that research has been carried out on behalf of the sector, and CSSC plans to use the findings to tackle what it sees as some of the problems faced by schools'

Only two-thirds of the pupils in the State school sector are Protestant, with the total number reducing by 10% over the last decade, according to new figures.

Barry Mulholland, chief executive of the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC), said the findings will dispel misconceptions about the system, which is also responsible for Irish-medium schools, as being the "Protestant sector".

"The religious breakdown of individual controlled schools often reflects their community," said Mr Barry.

"For example, I know of some controlled schools that have an almost 50/50 religious balance and others that are over 90% Catholic.

"It is therefore misleading to describe the controlled schools as the 'Protestant sector'.

"Indeed, controlled schools have greater religious diversity in comparison to other education sectors and, interestingly, provide education for more pupils of no religion than any other sector."

The research reveals that in terms of religion:

 66% of pupils are Protestant.

 10% of pupils are Catholic.

 5% of pupils are other Christian.

 1% of pupils are non-Christian.

 18% of pupils indicate no religion.

Controlled schools, which are non-denominational but hold Christian values, account for just under half of all schools in Northern Ireland.

It is the only part of the educational system to comprise a full range of education, with nursery, primary, special and non-selective post-primary schools sitting alongside grammar, integrated, Irish-medium and Dickson Plan schools.

This is the first time that research has been carried out on behalf of the sector, and CSSC plans to use the findings to tackle what it sees as some of the problems faced by schools. "It is already leading to a better understanding of what controlled schools are, the diversity within the sector and the challenges that face teachers and pupils alike, particularly given the lack of funding for education right across the board," said Mr Barry.

The CSSC is the first advocacy body for the sector in Northern Ireland.

Key findings from the research reveal that the controlled sector has more than 140,600 pupils.

It also employs more than 8,500 teachers.

The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) employs around 6,000 teachers.

The majority of nursery schools, primary schools and 95% of all special schools in Northern Ireland are controlled.

More than 28,700 primary and post-primary pupils have special educational needs.

Just under a third - 31% - of all controlled sector pupils are entitled to free school meals.

Controlled schools provide education through 560 schools for over 140,600 pupils.

Tony Gallagher, a Professor of Education at Queen's University in Belfast, said it was a diverse sector.

"Controlled schools have always had a close relationship with the main Protestant Churches," he said.

"And, if you look at primary and post-primary education here, the majority of children in these schools come from a Protestant background.

"The Department of Education carries out an annual census on pupils, and there are always a percentage of parents who don't want to disclose religious background.

"There is a likelihood that most of the 18% who indicated 'no religion' are from a Protestant background.

"But this survey reminds us that integrated, Irish-medium and special schools all fall under the controlled system, and they are likely to have many more Catholic pupils.

"The overall figure is a reminder that it isn't a homogeneous group, and that the controlled sector comprises a wide variety of school types.

"There are a number of controlled schools which do attract Catholic pupils, including controlled grammar schools.

"Despite this, the level of cross-over between controlled and maintained schools hasn't changed that much, and most young people continue to be educated in schools where most of the peers are from the same community."
Sinn Fein has described Arlene Foster's comments that the party is using demands for an Irish language act to "humiliate unionism" as "disappointing".

Mrs Foster in an interview with the BBC on Sunday said that despite intensive talks between the DUP and Sinn Fein recently, there were still "significant issues" between the two parties.

She said she was "very disappointed" at Sinn Fein's rejection of her proposal to legislate for the Irish language within a set time period if the Executive was restored immediately and denied the offer was "too little, too late".

She said: "Sinn Fein has decided to ring-fence the free-standing Irish language act in a way that, frankly, makes it impossible for those of us who want to move forward but see that this is just being used as a way to humiliate unionism and those of us who believe in the British way of life."

Talks aimed at restoring a power-sharing government are continuing with Secretary of State James Brokenshire calling on Northern Ireland's parties to reach an agreement as he said the window of opportunity to restore devolution is "closing rapidly".

He said on Thursday that Northern Ireland was on a "glide path" to great UK government intervention if agreement wasn't reached.

Read More

Sinn Fein's John O'Dowd said he was "disappointed" at Mrs Foster's comments and said he had hoped that after weeks of negotiations "the DUP negotiating side understood Sinn Fein's position".

Asked whether there had been any progress in the talks Mr O'Dowd told Good Morning Ulster: "There was discussion between the parties and perhaps what's required is rather than talking is some listening."

He continued: "I'm disappointed that after several weeks of what Arlene Foster described as intense discussions that the DUP think our intention is to humiliate unionism and the British way of life.

"Is the Gaelic act in Scotland or the Welsh act in Wales designed to humiliate those who are unionist in those countries and the Britishness of those countries - of course it's not. It's about the right and entitlement of language speakers.

He added: "If the DUP were to bring forward legislation in relation to Ulster Scots language I think that is something we are duty bound to support.

"We behold no fear in relation to Ulster Scots, it does not undermine my Irish republicanism or my Irishness I hold no fear for it whatsoever."

Mr O'Dowd said he felt Mrs Foster's comments indicated there had not been "sufficient progress" in the talks.

He said: "After several weeks of negations and discussions and engaging with each other I hoped the DUP negotiating side understood Sinn Fein's position. Clearly there hasn't been sufficient progress.

"I can only speak from our own point of view, paid or unpaid the issues are not going away. There will never be an Executive again unless the issues are resolved. So let's use this opportunity to resolve the outstanding issues and they can be resolved very quickly", he added.
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has accused Sinn Fein of preventing the people of Northern Ireland from having a voice in the Brexit negotiations.

Mr Martin warned that "historic damage" to the region is being threatened by Brexit but said that the pro-EU majority in the Stormont Assembly is being stopped from being heard because Sinn Fein "is refusing to allow the institutions to be re-established."

Stormont has been without a powersharing government since January when the former Deputy First Minister, the late Martin McGuinness of Sinn Fein, resigned over the DUP's handling of a botched green energy scheme.

Talks between the two largest parties, the DUP and Sinn Fein, have so far failed to break the deadlock.

Speaking at the Fianna Fail think-in conference in Longford on Monday Mr Martin said it is "long past time" for the Stormont institutions to be restored.

"So far this island's most consistently anti-EU party Sinn Fein is holding to the obviously cynical position that while the threat of Brexit is a threat to every element of the peace settlement but that no one is allowed to do anything about it," he said. Mr Martin raised concern over "the current state of Brexit negotiations".

"Obviously the shambles in the government in London is the biggest problem.

"However, we believe that our Government must start being far more active and ambitious in its proposals.

"Saying that we won't help the British design a border is all full and well, but when will there be an actual proposal for what our government believes should happen?" he said. The Cork South Central TD again insisted that a special economic zone should be developed for Northern Ireland and the border counties. He said this could help cross-border connections and allow priority measures to help develop disadvantaged areas.

Meanwhile, Mr Martin accused the Irish Government of failing to deliver on housing and health.

He said the Taoiseach needs to commit to getting more people housed and getting children out of emergency accommodation in hotels.

Mr Martin criticised former Housing Minister Simon Coveney for not choosing to stay in that department to tackle the problem.
Survivors of mother and baby homes where children were forcibly put up for adoption have called for the establishment of an all-Ireland body to help reunite families.

A campaign group of mothers and adults born in the homes is seeking support from the authorities across the north and south of Ireland to help them find redress.

The group - Birth Mothers And Their Children for Justice NI - warned that mothers and children are continuing to die before getting the chance to meet.

Eunan Duffy, who was born in the Marian Vale mother and baby home in Newry before being taken from his mother against her will and placed for adoption, said the current system for family tracing needs to be overhauled.

"Only one part-time person currently exists that traces family for two charities and the health and social care trusts (in Northern Ireland).

"This has led to a six or seven months waiting list for those wishing to trace. This is soul-destroying and unhelpful as relatives race against time to find loved ones," said Mr Duffy.

The 49-year-old only discovered he was adopted last year and managed to trace his birth mother who he now has a close relationship with.

He said it is vital that a dedicated statutory body tasked with family tracing and reunion is established as a matter of urgency.

Mr Duffy said there must be a legal compulsion for all State, religious and related bodies to release all records, files and documents pertaining to the entrance and exit pathways.

As many children were adopted into families across the Irish border, the establishment of a North/South co-operational body is vital, he added.

"The abuses, ramifications and consequences of what happened are ongoing. The suffering is everlasting. Children and their mothers were cruelly separated and denied a relationship," said Mr Duffy.

"Women and adopted children have died and are dying, both physically and mentally, as backs are turned and heads buried in the sand.

"This has to change. There has to be an immediate, fully independent and comprehensive public inquiry or commission to fulfil the needs and demands of those affected."

The group has written to a number of local authorities across Northern Ireland seeking support for its campaign.

It would like to hear from anyone across Ireland and the UK who may have been affected by one of the mother and baby homes in Northern Ireland. The group can be contacted on borthmothersforjustice.n.i@hotmail.com or by calling Mr Duffy on 07718645924.
Theresa May is holding talks with Justin Trudeau during a visit to Canada

Theresa May with Justin Trudeau in his office on Parliament Hill in Ottowa

Theresa May expects a "seamless transition" to a new trading relationship between the UK and Canada after Brexit.

The Prime Minister echoed the hopes of Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau after talks between the pair in Ottawa.

Mrs May's one-day visit to Canada is focused on trade and the dispute over aircraft manufacturer Bombardier.

It takes place before a new trade deal between the EU and Canada comes into effect on Thursday, eliminating 98% of Canadian import duties in what Downing Street describes as a "significant boon" for UK exporters.

But when Britain leaves the EU, it will fall out of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (Ceta), which was championed by the UK and took seven years to negotiate.

Mrs May, speaking at a press conference, said: " We want to ensure that when we leave the European Union, for businesses and people, that change is as smooth and orderly as possible.

"And working on Ceta as becoming the first of the bilateral trade relationships between the UK and Canada that means that seamless transition can take place.

"People will know the basis on which that trading relationship will be set up.

"We will be having a working group, which obviously will be looking at the details of how that transition will operate in detail."

The PM and Mr Trudeau's agreement over the establishment of a joint working group will prepare the ground for a bilateral deal based on Ceta to be signed soon after Brexit.

Mr Trudeau said Canada "respects the need" for the UK to determine its post-Brexit future.

He added: "But at the same time we know there is in place Ceta - as the UK has demonstrated time and time again its support for this trade measure - we will be able to move forward in a way that benefits in a smooth transition that keeps the essence of Ceta applicable to the UK in ways that will respects the EU's requirements and rules."

He earlier said he also wants a seamless transition to a new trading relationship, with the comments bolstering Mrs May's hopes to use Ceta as a model for a new bilateral arrangement between Britain and Canada to be introduced swiftly after Brexit.

Mrs May's first visit to Canada comes a week before an expected ruling from US trade authorities on allegations by Boeing that Bombardier has been dumping its C-Series jets on the US market.

The PM has already spoken about the case in a phone call with US President Donald Trump last week, in which she raised concerns about the impact that a possible financial penalty for the company could have on jobs in Northern Ireland.

Bombardier is Northern Ireland's largest manufacturing employer, and Mrs May is understood to have been pressed to take action by DUP leader Arlene Foster, whose 10 MPs are propping up the minority Conservative administration in the House of Commons.

Mrs May said she will raise the issue of Bombardier again with Mr Trump when the pair meet later this week, telling reporters: "I will be impressing on him the significance of Bombardier to the United Kingdom and particularly to jobs in Northern Ireland.

"We have discussed today how we can work together and to see a resolution of this resolution which, from my point of view, I want to see a resolution that protects those jobs in Northern Ireland."

Mr Trudeau said Canada is looking to replace its fighter jet fleet, with Boeing's Super Hornet aircraft considered as a potential replacement.

But he added: "We won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and put our aerospace workers out of business."

Mrs May later addressed a round-table meeting of Canadian business executives, including Bombardier president and chief executive Alain Bellemare, at the British High Commissioner's residence in Ottawa.

Mrs May rejoined Mr Trudeau to meet ex-service athletes training for the Invictus Games, which open at the end of the week in Toronto.

The two premiers spoke with wheelchair basketball players on the court at Lisgar Collegiate School in central Ottawa before watching them play a practice game with students.

Shirt-sleeved Mr Trudeau was cheered by an enthusiastic crowd as he fielded a couple of passes.

The two prime ministers then exchanged team jackets from the UK and Canadian Invictus squads.
A former top Northern Ireland model who died last week will be remembered for her "elegance, sense of fun and creativity", her children have said.

Edna Gillen (53) from Ballyholme in Bangor lost her two-year battle with breast cancer on Thursday.

She was married for 25 years to hairdresser Gary (64), who owns George's Salon in Belfast, and was mother to Nick (27), Faith (22) and Nina (18).

Mrs Gillen started modelling aged 16 and quickly built a successful career from her chiselled looks, dark cropped hair and svelte 5ft 8ins frame.

A catwalk model, she loved the industry and counted Orla Kiely and Iris Apfel amongst her favourite designers.

In 2008 she co-founded Models-eg, Northern Ireland's first agency to specialise in older models, and would often take part in shoots and hair shows.

A former pupil of Methodist College, Mrs Gillen's other passion was for books. An avid reader, she worked as manager of Bangor Library and had planned to publish a novel.

She had also recently taken up art classes to develop her painting and had wanted to set up a blog about the psychology of beauty to help others who were undergoing gruelling treatments.

Daughter Faith said: "She was very elegant and stylish with an infectious personality. Mum was very creative and was very interested in writing, books and art. Writing really helped her.

"She had a great sense of humour and was always laughing, she made everyone feel comfortable. Mum loved everything about fashion, style and clothes and when she got to a certain age, she wanted to continue modelling, so she set up the agency.

"She didn't believe in ageism or that age was a barrier to beauty, she believed that style was ageless."

Determined not to let cancer get her down, Mrs Gillen attended a family wedding only a week ago wearing her favourite six-inch Prada heels.

Other daughter Nina added: "She was very determined to attend that she left hospital for the day - she looked stunning.

"As we look through old photos, she looked great, even in the Eighties with the crazy hair, she still looked fantastic. Style was important to her.

"Mum was always laughing and smiling and even if she had known that her time was limited she would still have put her make-up on, looked her best and got on with it, she would not be beaten down." Mr Gillen (64) also paid tribute to "the love of his life", a woman who took on her cancer with a fearless resilience.

He added: "Edna has such a strength of character throughout living with cancer. I don't like to say battling or fighting it - she lived with it. But she would get up and put her lippy on and still meet her friends and live her life.

"She was a typical librarian, she was very organised, she always had two or three books on the go. And she was very beautiful, so photogenic - the camera loved her.

"Her main achievements are the children - she really loved being a mother, she was the mainstay of the home.

"It all happened so quickly but she was very strong to the end.

"It is very difficult. She was a fantastic mother and wife."

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11am at Ballyholme Presbyterian Church. The family request donations in lieu of flowers to the Cancer Centre at Belfast City Hospital.
The general secretary of union Unite Len McCluskey has pledged to engage with unions in Canada in a push to protect the jobs of Bombardier's Belfast workforce.

The statement on Monday comes as UK Prime Minister Theresa May meets with Canadian leader Justin Trudeau, with the pair expected to discuss the trade dispute that could lead to job losses in Belfast.

Bombardier is Northern Ireland's largest manufacturing employer, and the Canadian company is currently entangled in a dispute with rival company Boeing - which has made a complaint to the US Trade Commission about alleged anti-competitive practices.

Boeing has claimed that Bombardier is in receipt of illegal subsidies that allow them to produce their CSeries passenger plane for major US airline Delta for less than it costs to build.

Mr McCluskey said that Boeing was engaged in "predatory behaviour" and that it was "ordinary workers who risk being the collateral damage in what is an increasingly dirty row between two giant corporations over market share".

"My union stands in full solidarity with the workforce in Belfast. Personally I will be contacting our sister unions in Canada to ask for their assistance in pressing Boeing to meet with the Canadian government on these very serious matters," he said.

Calls were made by Unite's regional secretary for Ireland Jimmy Kelly for Northern Ireland's two largest political parties to use their influence overseas to secure the jobs of Bombardier's Belfast workers.

"The DUP have a confidence and supply' arrangement with the Tory government  at the very least that government should now move to review existing Boeing contracts in light of their destructive behaviour," he said.

"Sinn Fein has influence on Capitol Hill  the US politicians must be shown the impact an adverse decision by the Department of Commerce would have on the Northern Ireland economy, an economy which continues to struggle with the legacy of conflict, underinvestment and dislocation as well as the potential threats arising from Brexit."
More than 200 supporters have signed a petition calling for Northern Ireland to be given "honorary" European Union membership while remaining part of the UK.

Former European Commission head in Belfast Jane Morrice has said the country could become a European place of global peace-building.

Her petition called on Prime Minister Theresa May, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to grant the special status.

It has received 244 signatures of support.

The online campaign said: "The aim is to protect peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland and on the island of Ireland; to ensure respect for the European rights and fundamental freedoms of Northern Ireland citizens; to guarantee freedom of movement between the UK and Ireland and to safeguard the spirit of good relations and cooperation between the UK, Ireland and the EU enshrined in the Good Friday Belfast Agreement."

Sinn Fein and the SDLP are campaigning for Northern Ireland to be given special status within the EU following Brexit.

The Democratic Unionists supported Leave in the referendum.

Honorary EU association would retain the status of Northern Ireland as part of the EU, part of the UK and part of the British/Irish and North/South Council in keeping with the Good Friday Belfast Agreement, the petition said.

It would respect the will of the people of Northern Ireland who voted to stay in the EU, keep the Irish border open and recognise the right of those who wish to retain EU citizenship as British and/or Irish citizens, it added.

"Associate EU membership should permit Northern Ireland to stay in the customs union, the single market and the common travel area and find ways to allow the freedom of movement of people, goods, capital and services East/West and North/South of the British Isles.

"It should guarantee support for farmers, fisheries, research, student exchange and other economic and social imperatives and ensure and extend funding for cross-community, cross border and global Peace outreach programmes."

Ms Morrice is a former member of the Women's Coalition, which participated in the peace talks which led to the 1998 peace accord.
The landlord of a house where two Irish students died in a fire "never apologised" after he was found guilty over the blaze that killed them, the family of one of the girls has claimed.

Former Antrim hurler Malachy Vallely, director of the Leuven Institute for Ireland in Europe and owner of the student accommodation in Belgium where Dace Zarina (22), from Co Galway, and Sara Gibadlo (19), from Co Longford, died in 2014, was convicted on September 5.

He received a 6,000 fine and a one-year suspended sentence.

The family of Sara Gibadlo said that while "some justice" was achieved, the outcome is not what they had hoped for.

"They were found guilty, and fair enough, but we just can't comprehend how somebody's life is worth 6,000... our daughter's life was worth more than that," Malgorzta Gibadlo said.

"Also, the day after the case, we went down to place some flowers for the girls and on our way back... I can't even describe in words... we were so shocked to see him (Vallely) walking in the opposite direction, laughing away and talking on the phone.

"He looked at us, but he didn't recognise us. He didn't appear for the verdict and the way he is conducting himself, the way he tried to blame others, is just heartbreaking and unfair."

Ms Zarina and Ms Gibadlo were on student placements at the Leuven Institute. The Gibadlo family said Sara had hoped to become a primary school teacher.

"She was always smiling and she always knew how to include everyone in a conversation," her younger sister Maggie said.

"She was like my mom - I could trust her with my life."

At one court hearing, Vallely was called a "slum landlord" who used student accommodation as a "cash cow" to enrich himself.

Vallely, a former county hurler for Antrim, was said to have transformed the institute into a significant cultural settlement for Irish students since the 1980s.

Through his persuasion, the college received 3m from the Stormont Executive, as well as money from the Irish Government, to invest in facilities and restore the place.
Sinn Fein's stance on the murder of Louth farmer Tom Oliver demonstrates how senior party figures are strong apologists for the IRA, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has said.

Mr Martin ruled out a Fianna Fail-Sinn Fein coalition despite some of his own front bench TDs indicating they could be open to such an option after the next general election in the Republic.

Mr Martin described Sinn Fein as cult-like, and a party that does not tolerate dissent.

And he cited the recent response by Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and Eoin O Broin TD, who both said they are opposed to the prosecution of those responsible for the 1991 IRA murder of Mr Oliver.

In an interview on Dublin radio station Newstalk, Mr Martin said: They are still very strong apologists for the IRA and the most heinous crimes of the IRA.

And we saw that very recently with the reaction by Gerry Adams, and Eoin O Broin by the way, to the murder, the new cold case review into the murder of Tom Oliver, the father-of-seven in Co Louth.

Gerry Adams said they shouldnt be pursued, they shouldnt be prosecuted.

Mr Martin stated that the majority of his TDs were opposed to entering government with Sinn Fein.

Mr Oliver, a sheep farmer, was abducted, tortured and brutally murdered by the IRA on July 19, 1991. His body was found the following day in Co Armagh.

Last night Mr Adams hit back, saying Mr Martin may not get to decide who is in a position to discuss future government formation. In his arrogance he seems to forget that is the prerogative of the people, he said.

He added that it was disgraceful Mr Martin was attacking Sinn Fein instead of focusing on the unprecedented crises in housing and health.

But it is not surprising given the Fine Gael government exists because Mr Martin supports it. Micheal Martin also sat at the cabinet table for 14 years supporting budgets and policies which ultimately led to economic collapse and widespread hardship in this State, he said.
Irishman Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted after spending four years in Egyptian prison.

Mr Halawa was arrested in Cairo when he was 17 in the aftermath of protests held by the Muslim Brotherhood in 2013.

He had been tried alongside 492 other prisoners.

It has been confirmed that Mr Halawa's sisters - who were arrested at the same time as their brother but able to leave the country after three months - were also acquitted.

Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney welcomed the news.

Issuing a statement from New York where he is attending the UN General Assembly, he said: "On behalf of the Government and on my own behalf I welcome the news from Cairo that Ibrahim Halwa has been acquitted.

"This is the good news we had been hoping for. Ibrahim Halawas name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

"My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them.

"The governments priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that we can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible."

He added that there are a number of practical issues that will have to be dealt with before Mr Halawa is able to return home.

While Mr Halawa has been acquitted, it could be some time before he is released from prison due to the formalities required by the Egyptian justice and prison systems.

It is also thought that his leaving the country could be further delayed by issues around his immigration status to leave Egypt.
The statement in full as delivered by the Chairman of the inquiry into the Renewable Heating Incentive at the third preliminary hearing.

Introduction

Good afternoon and welcome to this, the third, preliminary hearing of the RHI Inquiry; and the final such hearing before the Inquiry commences its oral hearings.

It has been some twelve weeks since we held our second preliminary hearing here in the Senate Chamber at Parliament Buildings. At that time, I described the significant progress which the Inquiry had made in its investigations and gave a summary of significant developments in the work of the Inquiry. Today, I wish to make a similar, although (you may be pleased to hear) considerably shorter, statement. That is not because the Inquiry is making any less progress. Quite the contrary is the case. Indeed, the Inquiry intends shortly to commence its oral hearings and I will say something further about that in due course. In the public statements which I have previously made (which are available on the Inquirys website) I explained in considerable detail how the Inquiry is operating; and, for todays purposes, I will assume that you are familiar with those processes.

Further investigative progress

Firstly, I would like to say something about the further steps which have been taken by the Inquiry in order to investigate the matters set out in its Terms of Reference. As you know, the primary means by which the Inquiry is conducting its investigations is through the issuing of statutory notices under the Inquiries Act 2005, known as Section 21 Notices, which compel the provision of documentation or evidence, including written evidence by way of witness statements.

The Inquiry has now served a total of over 470 such notices. The result of these notices has been to allow the Inquiry to gather a huge amount of evidence  both in terms of documentation and witness statements  which is relevant to the issues we are required to address by our Terms of Reference which, as you are aware, are both comprehensive and very wide-ranging. As I have previously explained, the first

stage of the Inquirys investigative work was, broadly, the gathering of documentary evidence. As of today, the documentary material provided to the Inquiry and processed into evidence bundles amounts to around 880,000 pages, with more documentation remaining to be processed and further evidence being received on a daily basis.

Clearly, it is a mammoth task to review and assimilate this documentation. This involves not only processing the documentation  putting it into evidence bundles, numbering it and making it ready for reference and use in the Inquirys ongoing work and at hearings  but also reviewing and assessing the substance of the documentation. That work continues and the Inquirys legal team is working as hard as possible to extract the relevant information from the many documents, files, emails and communications which have been provided to us. I will say something more about that in the context of the Inquirys timetable and oral hearings in just a moment.

As the Inquiry has gained a clearer picture of the issues which require investigation, we have also turned to individuals who were involved in some way with the RHI Scheme to require them to provide written evidence in the form of a witness statement. The Inquiry has now obtained a considerable number of witness statements  some extremely lengthy and detailed  from persons from whom it has sought evidence. Unsurprisingly, some of those witness statements raise many further questions, whether for the author of the statement or others; and the Inquiry is now also in the course of seeking supplementary evidence from a number of persons who have already provided a witness statement but whose evidence on a particular matter or matters requires to be probed further. In addition, it is not uncommon for witness statements which have been received to identify other persons, to whom the Inquiry has not previously sent a notice requiring evidence, who then have to be addressed. In addition, such statements may, and often do, refer to annexes containing references and further documents which also need to be considered and assimilated.

In summary, the Inquiry is making extremely strong progress in working its way through the documents which have been provided to it and collecting evidence relevant to the matters which it must consider; but the size of this task, given the breadth of the Inquirys Terms of Reference, should not be underestimated.

Participatory rights

I previously explained publicly that the Inquiry has designated three organisations as core participants for the purposes of their interaction with the Inquiry. Those are organisations which, in the Inquirys view, have had some continuing involvement with the RHI Scheme throughout all of its phases and across the full scope of the issues which the Inquiry is investigating, namely the Department for the Economy; the Department of Finance; and Ofgem, which administers the Scheme.

The Inquiry has recently received, from a number of civil servants who played important roles in relation to the Scheme at various points in time, applications for designation as core participants also. I have determined that such a designation is not necessary or appropriate; and this determination, including the reasons for it, has recently been published on the Inquirys website.

In my previous public statements however, I also made clear that there may be those who ought  in fairness to them and/or in order to enhance the effectiveness of the Inquiry  to be provided with some enhanced participatory rights, over and above those afforded to someone who is simply providing evidence to the Inquiry as a witness, whether orally or in writing. Consequently the Inquiry has designed and implemented such a process. As I have consistently made clear, the Inquiry is determined to act fairly towards those with whom it interacts and to adopt flexible procedures to ensure that this is so. The granting of enhanced participatory rights is one facet of these commitments.

Since the last preliminary hearing, the Inquiry has written to 23 individuals or organisations and granted them enhanced participatory rights. In practical terms, the most significant feature of these rights for the moment is early and open access to the Inquirys witness statement bundle, although that is still in the process of being updated as further witness statements are received or are processed. Enhanced participants will also have a right to be legally represented at hearings where I consider that this is appropriate and for their legal representative to engage with the Inquiry over possible lines of questioning which may be pursued with other witnesses, whose evidence is relevant to their position. Depending upon the circumstances and, in particular, having regard to the duty to conduct the Inquiry in an efficient and cost-effective manner as well as fairly, the right to legal representation may be afforded to an individual or to a group of participants. In due course other rights may also be made available to enhanced participants, such as the facility to make a written closing to the Inquiry. Those granted such a status include

the consultants who advised on the scheme design (Cambridge Economic Policy Associates); a range of civil servants who played significant roles in the creation or running of the Scheme or in the oversight of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment; the two Ministers responsible for that Department during the key periods the Inquiry is considering; and a number of special advisers who were involved with, or are alleged to have been involved with, decisions relating to the Scheme.

Revised protocols

As a result of the approach which the Inquiry has adopted to the grant of participatory rights, the Inquiry has revised and updated its Procedural Protocol, which can be found on the Inquiry website. The protocol now makes clear that there are those who have, or may be, granted enhanced participatory rights and more accurately reflects the different statuses open to those engaging with the Inquiry.

In addition, the Inquiry has updated its Redaction Protocol, which is also to be found on the website. This is because I have recently made a further restriction order. I spent some time at our last preliminary hearing outlining the Inquirys approach to the redaction of documents which have been made available to it. In due course, when evidence provided to the Inquiry is made public, either through our public hearings or through more general disclosure at a later time, there will be some details which have to be withheld from publication, or redacted, in the public interest. I have already described on a number of occasions my commitment to make sure that the Inquiry is as open and transparent as possible; and that remains the case. The further restriction order which I have made relates to the non-publication of information which the Inquiry considers to be commercially sensitive, in circumstances where the public interest in maintaining that sensitivity outweighs the public interest in disclosure; and to the non-publication of certain information relating to investigations (such as investigations into matters such as fraud, misconduct or abuse of the RHI Scheme) where the disclosure of the information might in my view impede an on-going investigation or the investigative process more generally. The Redaction Protocol has been updated to take account of this further restriction order; and the restriction order itself, Restriction Order No 4, is also available on the Inquirys website.

Timetable

As always, I anticipate that there may be most interest in what the Inquiry is now in a position to disclose about the timetable for its oral hearings.

In my last public statement I indicated that, during the month of August, we would endeavour to send letters to at least the first tranche of those whom we anticipate will be called as oral witnesses, indicating the general time period within which they will be expected to attend to give oral evidence. When writing, in August, to a number of enhanced participants, we were in a position to indicate in each case, not only their designation as a person or organisation with enhanced participatory rights, but also that they will be called as an oral witness. When doing so we were able to give each a broad, although necessarily provisional, indication of when that might be. As a result, the majority of those who will be called to give oral evidence before the Inquiry have been informed of the approximate time period when they will be required to do so. There will be a limited number of other individuals who are still to be informed that they will be called as oral witnesses and this is being kept under review by the Inquiry team as information and evidence continues to be gathered.

At the last public hearing I also indicated that we would like, and at that time intended, to commence oral hearings in the first two weeks of October. I emphasized, however, that whether we could do so remained dependent upon the investigative progress made by the Inquiry generally and the outcome of our engagement with participants before the Inquiry. Reluctantly, I have come to the conclusion that commencement in early October is just not possible, for reasons which I shall mention in a moment. However, I can announce that the Inquiry now intends to commence its oral hearings, in this chamber, on Tuesday 7 November, commencing at 10.30 am.

I will say some more in a moment about the content, shape and structure of the oral hearings to be held up until Christmas. Before that, however, I want to make some further observations about the start date of the oral hearings and the alteration to the provisional intended timetable which I mentioned in June.

As I have made clear, the Inquiry is making considerable progress in working through the volume of documentation and evidence it has received which is relevant to its Terms of Reference. On several occasions now, we have expanded the Inquirys legal team or recruited new administrative staff to deal with the increasing demands in these areas. Staff continue to work extremely hard in order to conduct necessary preparatory work in advance of the oral hearings. However, despite these steps, it has become clear that this work will not be complete in advance of any realistic start date for the oral hearings which I might set. I make absolutely no apology for expressing once again my gratitude and admiration for the ability and application of the Inquiry support team. What I must do is balance the demands of progressing the Inquirys investigative work and analysis with the demand of moving the Inquiry forward within a reasonable time and meeting the publics expectation for expedition, so far as is possible consistently with our Terms of Reference.

In addition to the Inquirys own preparation, I am conscious that we are making significant demands upon those with whom we are interacting. Core participants, enhanced participants and witnesses will need time to consider materials we send to them, or make available to them, in advance of their giving evidence; and the Inquiry of course needs time to collate that material and provide it. I mentioned in my last statement that many witnesses have sought extensions of time because of the exacting deadlines which we have imposed upon them for response. Of necessity, a number of such applications have been a consequence of pre-booked summer holidays.

A recent, and significant, further instance of further time being required arises in relation to supplementary corporate statements on the part of core participants which the Inquiry has invited them to submit. Each core participant has provided the Inquiry with a lengthy and detailed statement on behalf of its organisation corporately. Over the summer, the Inquiry has made available to the core participants large tranches of documentation which has been provided to it, as well as the then current form of the Inquirys witness statement bundle. On 21 July each core participant was invited to provide a supplementary corporate statement or statements to the Inquiry clarifying or modifying its position, where necessary, now that it had access to information from the other core participants and others. They were asked to submit any such further statements by 1 September. A number of applications for an extension to this deadline, all for good reason, were made and granted. However, as matters stand today, none of the core participants has been in a position to yet provide a further supplementary corporate statement. This should not be seen as a criticism, as it is not; rather, it is a reflection of the very significant task required in reviewing the relevant documentation which the Inquiry has provided to them.

I make mention of this issue in order to explain and assist the public to understand the difficulties which are faced by a public inquiry, and those interacting with it, which is as document-heavy as this inquiry is transpiring to be.

In this regard, I should mention that, by and large, the Inquiry has been impressed by, and is grateful for, the cooperation which it has received from those who have been approached by it. We acknowledge the efforts being made by those concerned in order to allow the Inquiry to proceed with its work and we are hopeful for, and expect, the same efficient cooperation all round as we progress to the public hearings phase of our work. All those concerned have a duty to the public to ensure that the Inquiry can conduct its work efficiently, effectively and expeditiously.

In light of the factors I have mentioned, and taking into account the progress the Inquiry has made, the work which is still to be done, and the public interest in expedition, I have decided that Tuesday 7 November is an achievable date on which to commence our oral hearings. Even then, the Inquiry will be commencing its hearings with a considerable amount of investigative and preparatory work remaining to be done as its oral hearings progress. Necessarily, therefore, the precise timetable for the continuation of oral hearings will have to be kept under review.

Nonetheless, I can say something about what is intended in the first phase of oral hearings up to Christmas, commencing on 7 November. The Inquiry still intends that its hearings schedule will be made up of a series of two-week segments of taking evidence, followed by a week in which the Inquiry will be concerned with considering the evidence given, taking any further steps which might need to be taken on foot of it, and preparing for the next two-week segment of taking evidence. I described this two weeks on, one week off rolling model in my last public statement; although I again make clear that the Inquiry will be continuing its work as vigorously as it is now, even when we are not sitting in this forum. I also continue to intend that in hearing weeks we will sit on four days per week, Tuesday to Friday, for reasons I set out in my last public statement.

The first two weeks of the Inquirys hearings, therefore, will run from Tuesday 7 November to Friday 10 November; and from Tuesday 14 November to Friday 17 November. The first week will largely consist of an opening of the Inquiry by Inquiry Counsel. The purpose of this opening will be to explain to the Panel and for the benefit of the public both the Inquirys procedures and, more importantly, an overview of the evidence gathered and themes which the Inquiry will address in the course of its oral hearings and further investigative work. I also intend to permit each of the three core participants to make a brief opening statement, if they so wish, on Friday 10 November.

The second week of hearings will also consist of presentations by Inquiry counsel. In the first instance, we will examine a comparison between the RHI Scheme in Northern Ireland and the analogous scheme in Great Britain, since one of the central themes of the Inquirys investigation has been, and will be, the justification for divergences between the two schemes at various times. Then, Inquiry counsel will open what I have previously referred to as Phase 1 of the matters we are required to investigate, namely the original design and implementation of the RHI Scheme in Northern Ireland. As evidence progresses, it is intended that the various phases will be opened by Inquiry counsel  that is to say that they will provide a summary of the factual picture relating to that phase, refer to and explain the key documents and outline the important themes which the Inquiry Panel will have to consider, as well as identifying witnesses who will be called and any factual disputes which the Panel will have to resolve. Such an opening is both a helpful reminder to the Panel of the task before it and of invaluable assistance to the public in informing them of the issues the Inquiry is addressing and in assisting them to follow and understand what is going on.

As I have previously said, written evidence and documentation gathered by the Inquiry and referred to at our oral hearings will also be released to the public as appropriate as the hearings progress.

Consistently with what I have said about our sitting schedule, after the first two weeks of hearing, the Inquiry will continue its work but not sit again until Tuesday 28 November. In the sitting week commencing on 28 November, and the following week, witnesses who were involved in the design and creation of the Scheme will be called and examined. These witnesses will include the consultants responsible for advising on the design of tariffs in the Scheme and a number of civil servants involved in the setting up of the Scheme, or dealing with funding for it, in various ways. After those two weeks of hearing, the Inquiry will sit again on 19 December, for three days of that week, until 21 December. Most of the evidence relating to Phase 1 should be complete at that time and, depending on progress, it is hoped that Phase 2 will have been opened.

We do not intend to call witnesses to give oral testimony when their evidence can appropriately be dealt with in writing. Just because a witness is not called to give oral evidence does not imply anything about the significance or credibility of their evidence.

We also generally intend, as a very broad approach, to try to adopt a chronological approach to the evidence being considered; but also to call more junior civil servants first, working up the line of responsibility, with those in the positions of most responsibility, such as Permanent Secretaries and Ministers giving evidence towards the end of the hearings.

Further, more specific details about hearing sessions will be published by the Inquiry intermittently on its website, at appropriate times, as the hearings progress.

Conclusion

Thank you again for your attendance today; and for your interest in the work of the RHI Inquiry. I hope these remarks have been of some assistance in reassuring you about the significant progress which the Inquiry continues to make and of interest to you in terms of the next stages of our work.

I had previously indicated that there would be scope at todays hearing for any applications or representations which might be made in relation to participatory rights but that I hoped these would be resolved in correspondence in advance of today. I consider that that is the case and, despite having invited those who have been in contact with the Inquiry about the issue of participatory rights to advise me if they take a contrary view, have received no such indication. That being so, todays business is concluded and we will reconvene on 7 November for the opening of the Inquirys oral hearings.

Thank you.
Ultra-endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont is set to reclaim the world record for circumnavigating the globe one day ahead of schedule (PA)

British ultra-endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont says he feels elation and utter relief after obliterating the record for travelling around the world on a bike.

The adventurer set off from France in July on a mission to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days and arrived back in Paris on day 79 of the journey, 24 hours ahead of schedule.

His feat was later given official verification by Guinness World Records, knocking 44 days  a third  off the previous record of 123 days.

Edinburgh-based Beaumont, 34, completed the epic 18,000-mile Artemis World Cycle challenge despite three serious falls off his bike and facing conditions such as fierce head winds, sub-zero temperatures and forest fire smog.

He put his success down to grit, the ability to suffer and declared: This has been, without doubt, the most punishing challenge I have ever put my body and mind through.

On completing the expedition, he told Press Association: I guess the biggest emotion is relief, utter relief. This has been years in the planning.

Expand Close (PA graphic) Press Association Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp (PA graphic)

Since I was a 12-year-old kid who pedalled across Scotland, the ambitions have got bigger over the last two decades.

For me, this was the ultimate. So (I feel) relief, elation, its just wonderful to see my beautiful wife and two daughters who have supported me brilliantly through this. I definitely owe them a bit of time now.

The record-breaking moment was aired on Facebook Live, with his official page saying: Made it to the finish line in under #80days.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Inspired by Jules Vernes classic adventure novel Around The World In Eighty Days, Beaumont set off from under the Arc de Triomphe on July 2.

He has travelled through 16 countries during his four-stage challenge, with the first stage seeing him travel through Europe to Russia and Mongolia, culminating in Beijing.

His attempt to reclaim the world record later took him across Australia, New Zealand and North America.

He then arrived back in Europe for a final push from Lisbon to Paris.

The long-distance athlete had to complete 240 miles a day  spending 16 hours in the saddle after less than five hours sleep per night  to stay on schedule.

Over the course of the 79 days, Beaumont faced numerous physical and mental challenges, including a fall in Russia on day nine, in which he broke a tooth and suffered a hairline fracture to his left elbow. He came off the bike again in New Zealand and just days ago in the Pyrenees.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

That really gave the team a fright because I was about four days from the finish and suddenly I was off, he said.

I think it made everyone realise its not over till its over.

Beaumont cites Russia as the toughest country to traverse while the weather conditions in the southern hemisphere, Canada and the US proved challenging.

He said: I got to Russia and it took 17 days across. It was really pretty industrial, hard riding.

I found that mentally and physically pretty gruelling.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

New Zealand, whilst being absolutely beautiful, was in the depth of winter. Getting on the bike at 4am with ice on the jacket and quite nasty storms made that probably the most inclement part.

There was massive forest fires in North Dakota which we were skirting.

I rode a couple of days with that heavy smog. Then across the prairie spots there was incredible headwind with nowhere to hide out there.

Its not so different to a sailing boat going around the world  the wind can make or break a record like this.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

During the trip, Beaumont was also awarded the Guinness World Records title for the most miles cycled in a month, from Paris to Perth in Australia, verified at 7,031 miles (11,315km).

He still aims to raise 80,000 for Orkidstudio, a humanitarian architectural charity with which he has worked for the last decade.
Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted of all charges in Egypt after four years in jail.

Due to procedures within the Egyptian judicial and prison authorities, it is unlikely the Irishman will be released immediately, however.

Mr Halawa, 21, had been charged over Muslim Brotherhood protests which took place in Cairo in August 2013.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

The student and son of a prominent Muslim cleric in Dublin, Sheikh Hussein Halawa, was jailed after being detained in a mosque near Ramses Square in Cairo four years ago amid protests over the removal of president Mohamed Morsi. He was 17 at the time.

Along with scores of others he was accused of murders, bombing, possession of firearms and explosives, arson, violence against police and desecration of Al Fatah Mosque.

He was cleared of all charges on Monday.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney welcomed Mr Halawas acquittal.

On behalf of the Government and on my own behalf I welcome the news from Cairo that Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted.

This is the good news we had been hoping for. Ibrahim Halawas name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them, said Mr Coveney.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

He added: The Governments priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that we can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible.

We are conscious that there will be some practical procedures and formalities to be gone through before Ibrahim will be able to fly back to Dublin, but my Department and our Embassy team will be assisting and supporting Ibrahim and his family to seek to ensure he gets home as soon as possible.

Irelands Childrens Minister Katherine Zappone said Mr Halawas acquittal must be followed by a swift return home.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

It is important that all who campaigned over the past four years continue to co-operate to ensure Ibrahims return is arranged as soon as possible.

I remain in close contact with Ibrahims sister Somaia, his lawyers and Government colleagues to ensure that Ibrahims needs are immediately assessed and any supports required put in place.

Assessing his health, psychological and social needs must be the priority and supports offered, she said.
Members of the emergency services work near Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017. Pic / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

BEST QUALITY AVAILABLE Handout photo issued by Sylvain Pennec of a bucket on fire on a tube train at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday September 15, 2017. See PA story TRANSPORT Explosion. Photo credit should read: Sylvain Pennec/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Armed British police officers stand on duty outside Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVAS / ===RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / HO / @RRIGS - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS NO ARCHIVES - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS FROM FROM ALTERNATIVE SOURCES, THEREFORE AFP IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DIGITAL ALTERATIONS TO THE PICTURE'S EDITORIAL CONTENT, DATE AND LOCATION WHICH CANNOT BE INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED == / DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

BEST QUALITY AVAILABLE Handout photo issued by Sylvain Pennec of a bucket on fire on a tube train at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday September 15, 2017. See PA story TRANSPORT Explosion. Photo credit should read: Sylvain Pennec/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Armed British police officers stand on duty outside Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017. Pic Wires

Members of the emergency services work near Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

People stand in the street by a Police car close to Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Members of the emergency services work outside Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

An armed British police officer works near Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Handout photo issued by Richard Aylmer-Hall of emergency services attending an incident at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. Pic: Aylmer-Hall/PA Wire

Emergency services attending incident at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. Pic: Richard Aylmer-Hall/PA Wire

Handout photo issued by James Treen of emergency services attending an incident at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Pic: James Treen/PA Wire

Handout photo issued by James Treen of emergency services attending an incident at Parsons Green station in west London amid reports of an explosion. Pic: James Treen/PA Wire

Members of the emergency services work near Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

An armed British police officer stands with a member of the emergency rescue services near to Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Armed British police officers stand on duty outside Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017. Pic wires

Members of the emergency services work alongside an underground tube train at a platform at Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. "We are aware of an incident at Parsons Green tube station. Officers are in attendance," London's Metropolitan Police said on Twitter. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

An injured woman is assisted by a police officer close to Parsons Green station in west London after an explosion on a packed London Underground train. Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Armed police close to Parsons Green station in west London after an explosion on a packed London Underground train. Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

An image taken from a user generated content uploaded on social networks on September 15, 2017, shows a white container burning inside a London Underground tube carriage. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. Pic: PA wires

A armed British police officer walks through the carriage of a London underground tube carriage at Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Members of the emergency services work near Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station. Police and ambulance services said they were responding to an "incident" at Parsons Green underground station in west London on Friday, following media reports of an explosion. A Metro.co.uk reporter at the scene was quoted by the paper as saying that a white container exploded on the train and passengers had suffered facial burns. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Members of the emergency services work alongside an underground tube train at a platform at Parsons Green underground tube station in west London on September 15, 2017, following an incident on an underground tube carriage at the station.. / AFP PHOTO / Daniel LEAL-OLIVASDANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

Emergency services outside Parsons Green station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident following a blast sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday September 15, 2017. See PA story TRANSPORT Explosion. Photo credit should read: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Handout photo taken with permission from the Twitter feed of @ASolopovas of emergency services outside Parsons Green tube station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident. Pic: @ASolopovas/PA Wire

Police have been given more time to question two men arrested by counter-terrorism officers investigating the Parsons Green bombing.

A 21-year-old, identified by his employers as Yahyah Farroukh, was arrested after he finished his shift at a fried chicken shop in Hounslow, west London on Saturday night as part of the probe into Fridays attack.

According to his Facebook profile, Farroukh is originally from Damascus and is living in London, having studied English at West Thames College.

An 18-year-old is also in police custody for questioning. He was detained on Saturday morning in the departure area of Dover ferry port, which is the busiest ferry hub in Europe and a gateway to the French coast.

Thirty people were injured when the improvised device exploded during Friday morning rush hour at Parsons Green Tube station, with all but one now discharged from hospital.
David Mundell said the UK and Scottish governments must work together on Brexit (Jane Barlow/PA)

The question of Scottish independence needs to be de-coupled from Brexit, the Scottish Secretary has said three years on from the referendum.

David Mundell said the two issues have been deliberately conflated in order to push a second independence vote.

During a trade trip to South America, the Scottish Secretary called on the UK and Scottish governments to move on from the issue that divided our country so badly and work closer together on Brexit.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

He said: Behind the scenes, that work has been happening and I am pleased to report we are making progress. But frankly, up to now, private progress has been overshadowed by public rhetoric.

We have been accused by the Nationalist government in Edinburgh of a power grab, of using our exit from the EU as an opportunity to centralise power at Westminster. That is simply not the case. Our record demonstrates our commitment to devolution.

As a former MSP, I want to see the Scottish Parliament strengthened and that is what will happen as we leave the EU.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Im equally clear I want to see devolution delivered in a way that strengthens our United Kingdom  not undermines it. This, sadly, goes to the heart of the matter.

The fact is, until the recent election in June, the Brexit debate in Scotland was deliberately conflated with the question of Scottish independence.

Despite the passage of only three short years  and despite the decisive result  the Scottish National Party sought to use Brexit to reopen the issue that divided our country so badly.

Expand Close David Mundell said the Brexit debate was deliberately conflated with the question of Scottish independence (John Stillwell/PA) / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp David Mundell said the Brexit debate was deliberately conflated with the question of Scottish independence (John Stillwell/PA)

Their attempt was roundly rejected in the recent general election, so we now need the issues to be de-coupled for good.

Mr Mundell is in Paraguay as part of the first visit by the UK Government in more than 20 years. He is also travelling to Argentina as part of an international trade mission.

He said: Around half of the UKs exports to Paraguay come from Scotland  mainly in the form of Scotch whisky. I understand that this has been rising steadily over the years.

This is welcome, of course. But 20 years ago we were exporting three times as much Scotch whisky to Paraguay as we are now.

This is something I want to see turned around in the coming years and which I see as a real Scottish opportunity. 

Expand Close The independence debate has divided the country, according to David Mundell (Andrew Milligan/PA) / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp The independence debate has divided the country, according to David Mundell (Andrew Milligan/PA)

A spokesman for Holyrood Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: Mr Mundells obsession with independence and failure to understand the impact of the EU withdrawal bill is at odds with the growing consensus across Scotland that we must protect the powers of the Scottish Parliament from this legislation and that any UK-wide frameworks must be mutually agreed, not imposed by Westminster.

We wish David Mundell every success on this trip but the best thing that could come out of it would be for the Tories to wake up to the economic damage they are causing with their disastrous approach to Brexit.
Amnesty International activists erect a 6ft gravestone in Parliament Square in memory of thousands of Yemeni civilians killed by air strikes

An air strike by the Saudi-led coalition fighting Yemen's Shia rebels killed 12 civilians in central Marib province, Yemeni medical officials and tribesmen said.

Four children and four women were said to be among those killed on Saturday.

The attack struck a car in the Harib al-Qaramesh area, along the only route used by civilians to escape the fighting near rebel military installations.

Several civilians were also wounded in the raid.

Since 2015, the Saudi coalition has waged a blistering air campaign against the Houthis and their allies, while enforcing an air and sea blockade of Yemen, where the rebels seized the capital, Sanaa, in 2014.
Four American tourists who were attacked with acid at a train station in Marseille have been identified as college students.

Boston College in Massachusetts said the female students were treated for burns at a Marseille hospital after they were sprayed in the face with acid on Sunday morning.

French authorities are not treating the incident as terror-related.

The four women were studying abroad, three of them at the college's Paris program.

The director of the college's Office of International Programs, Nick Gozik, said the women have been released from hospital and "it appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances".

The students were identified as Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman, Michelle Krug and Kelsey Korsten.

A 41-year-old female suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack.

Boston College said police described the suspect as "disturbed".

AP
One of Bombardiers C Series planes, which are part-made in Belfast

Bombardier has accused rival Boeing of "hypocrisy" in their ongoing bitter dispute.

The two have been locked in a dispute after Boeing called in US authorities to investigate if the Canadian firm has been given an unfair advantage in selling its C Series jet - which is made in apart in Belfast.

The complaint was brought to the fore over Delta Airlines ordering the Canadian company's new jet for its fleet.

Boeing has said it was seeking "to restore a level playing field in the US single-aisle airplane market".

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

So far Bombardier has only said its Belfast operation is crucial to the C Series programme. The company is Northern Ireland's biggest employer in the manufacturing industry and thousands of jobs in Belfast have been caught in the middle of the row.

On Monday evening, bombardier released a statement on Boeing's "hyprocrisy".

"Bombardier shares Boeing's commitment to a level playing field, but in this case, they were not even on the field," it said.

"Delta ordered the C Series because Boeing stopped making an aircraft of the size Delta needed years ago.

"It is pure hypocrisy for Boeing to say that the C Series launch pricing is a 'violation of global trade law' when Boeing does the same for its new aircraft.

Expand Close One of Bombardiers C Series planes, which are part-made in Belfast / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp One of Bombardiers C Series planes, which are part-made in Belfast

No-one is saying Bombardier cannot sell its aircraft anywhere in the world. Boeing

"Boeing's self-serving actions threaten thousands of aerospace jobs around the world, including thousands of UK and US jobs and billions of purchases from the many UK and US suppliers who build components for the C Series.

"The US government should reject Boeing's attempt to tilt the playing field in its favor and impose an indirect tax on the US flying public through unjustified import tariffs."

In response, Boeing said the C Series had been offered in America at "absurdly low prices".

"This is a classic case of dumping and it was made possible by a major injection of public funds," it said.

"This violation of global trade law is the only issue at stake at the US International Trade Commission - one sale in the US at a price millions lower than Bombardier is charging in the Canadian market.

No-one is saying Bombardier cannot sell its aircraft anywhere in the world. But sales must be according to globally-accepted trade law, not violating those rules seeking to boost flatlining business artificially."

Boeing values its 80-year partnership with the UK. Boeing

Boeing has highlighted how other aircraft makers have made similar complaints against Bombardier. Brazilian aerospace conglomerate Embraer asked the World Trade Organisation to intervene over subsidies given to Bombardier.

"Accusations that Boeing receives billions in subsidies are not just false but have been proved to be so by WTO rulings," Boeing continued in its statement.

Boeing values its 80-year partnership with the UK. We have doubled our own direct employment in this country since 2011 and have tripled direct spending with the UK supply chain over the same period, to more than 2 billion in 2016.

"Indeed, just last week Boeing broke ground for its first factory in Europe, in Sheffield. We are pleased to work with the government and provide such a vote of confidence in the UK.

"We all have a duty to ensure that global trade rules are respected around the world to deliver long-term benefits to all in the aerospace sector, which employs around 100,000 people in the UK. More than 16,500 of these employees work in Boeings direct UK supply chain and we are proud to work with them.

"We all have a shared interest in a level playing field. That is what this dispute is about.

The matter has been raised at the highest levels. PM Theresa May has raised the matter with US President Donald Trump and intends to do so again. Canadian premier Justin Trudeau has even hinted at his government pulling military contracts from the firm.

And the matter has brought together DUP leader Arlene Foster and Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill who wrote a joint letter to the US Vice President over the matter.

The US Department of Commerce is expected to announce a decision on whether to impose duties against Bombardier on September 25. Should it find against Bombardier it could impose financial penalties.
Army whistleblower Chelsea Manning has refuted claims she is an "American traitor" insisting she did what she thought was right by leaking thousands of classified documents.

Manning, who was known as Bradley Manning when she was convicted in 2013 of passing a trove of documents to WikiLeaks, was speaking at an annual conference of "creative thinkers" in Massachusetts.

It was one of Manning's first public appearances since being released from a military prison in May after serving seven years of a 35-year sentence, which was commuted by President Barack Obama in his final days in office..

"I believe I did the best I could in my circumstances to make an ethical decision," the 29-year-old transgender woman told the crowd when asked by the moderator if she was a traitor.

Tom Scott, who co-founded The Nantucket Project with Kate Brosnan, said they invited Manning for "clarity of understanding".

"My brother and father are Marines. They would respectfully challenge some of her decisions," he said.

"Barack Obama commuted her sentence. My instinct is that he's a good and trustful man. How do those two things mix? Seeing her in person offers, perhaps, the best way to decipher that."

Scott said some of the 600 audience members were upset that Manning was invited, but he did not consider retracting the invitation.

Harvard University reversed its decision to name Manning a visiting fellow on Friday, a day after CIA Director Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned appearance over the title for Manning.

Pompeo called Manning an "American traitor".

Manning said Harvard's decision signalled to her that it was not possible to engage in actual political discourse in academic institutions.

"I'm not ashamed of being disinvited," she said. "I view that just as much of an honoured distinction as the fellowship itself."

AP
Mr Trump has called for tougher policing of the nuclear deal (AP)

US president Donald Trump has warned Washington will walk away from its nuclear deal with Iran if it deems that the UN watchdog monitoring the agreement is not tough enough.

In a message to a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) read by US energy secretary Rick Perry, Mr Trump said "we will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal".

Iran said the greatest threat to the deal is "the American administration's overly hostile attitude".

Alluding to US assertions that the deal allows the IAEA to inspect Tehran's military sites, Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi is urging the agency to "resist such unacceptable demands".
US Air Force B-1B bomber, F-35B stealth fighter jets and South Korean F-15K fighter jets fly over the Korean Peninsula during a joint drills (South Korea defence ministry/AP)

The US has seen no need to shoot down North Korean missiles test-fired in Japan's direction, but a future missile launch that threatens American or Japanese territory will "elicit a different response from us", defence secretary Jim Mattis has said.

He also said, without elaborating, that the Trump administration had military options against North Korea that would not put Seoul at risk.

He would not say whether he was referring to overt combat action, a cyber attack or something more covert.

"I will not go into details," he said.

Mr Mattis also confirmed that he and his South Korean counterpart had recently discussed the possibility of putting US nuclear weapons back into South Korea, an option that has been raised publicly by some Seoul politicians.

US nuclear weapons were withdrawn from the Korean peninsula in the early 1990s at the close of the Cold War.

"We discussed the option, but that's all ... I want to say," Mr Mattis said.

Mr Mattis discussed several aspects of the North Korea crisis in an impromptu exchange with reporters at the Pentagon, including the effect of international economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure on North Korea.

He argued that the pressure was working and gave as an example Mexico's decision to expel the North Korean ambassador in Mexico City.

He was asked why the US, which has spent tens of billions of dollars on missile defence programmes in recent decades, has not tried to intercept North Korea's rockets as they demonstrate an increasingly sophisticated missile capability.

"Number one, those missiles are not directly threatening any of us," Mr Mattis said.

He was referring to an accelerating series of missile tests by North Korea that have defied US and international warnings to stop.

North Korea has said the tests are intended to develop the capability to hit US territory with a nuclear weapon.

It has also threatened to launch missiles close to the coast of Guam, a US island territory in the Pacific.

On September 3, North Korea conducted an underground nuclear test that was by far its most powerful to date.

Last week, North Korea launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile that travelled 2,300 miles and passed over the Japanese island of Hokkaido before landing in the northern Pacific.

It was the country's longest-ever test flight of a ballistic missile.

Mr Mattis happened to be at US Strategic Command headquarters near Omaha, Nebraska, at the time of the launch and afterwards condemned it for forcing "millions of Japanese" to "duck and cover".

In his remarks on Monday, Mr Mattis made clear that the US and Japan were prepared for future missile threats.

The North Koreans "are intentionally doing provocations that seem to press against the envelope for just how far can they push without going over some kind of a line, in their minds, that would make them vulnerable," he said.

"So they aim for the middle of the Pacific Ocean."

"The bottom line is that the missiles, were they to be a threat" either to the US or Japan, "that would elicit a different response from us".

AP
The European Commission President, Jean-Claude Junker, has got it wrong: it is not the United Kingdom that will "soon regret" leaving the European Union, as he insists, but the EU will soon regret the UK leaving when the payments stop.

The United Kingdom's momentous decision to leave the European Union was mainly down to how the EU is run in a dictatorial and undemocratic, top-down fashion. His tactics of belittling the UK and her people and trying to bully the UK Government will not work.

His continual reference to Europe is wrong - we are not leaving Europe, but the European Union. The EU is not Europe and Europe is not the EU.

As I understand it, Article 50 has no provision for the UK to pay anything when we leave. Remember: we have already paid over 500bn into the EU funds since we joined and this is more than enough.

The squandering of vast sums of money and waste has not been addressed by the EU and if he spent as much time on reforming the EU as criticising the UK, the EU would be a much better organisation.

In his 'state of the union' speech, it is clear Junker wants to penalise the UK for being democratic and accepting the majority voice of the people here in the decision to leave the EU.

If he and other EU leaders had listened to voices in the UK and other EU countries, we may not have come to this and the UK could well have voted to remain.

As things now stand, the EU leadership have not listened to any concerns, but buried their heads in the sand.

Project United States of Europe - with it's vast, centralised power - is now moving full steam ahead, with plans for even a new EU army.

Leaders of the EU, like President Junker, with his foolish remarks that illustrate the advantages of leaving, help to strengthen my resolve and makes me - like the vast majority of people - more impatient to break free from the EU as soon as possible.

STEVAN PATTERSON

Castlederg, Co Tyrone
The future of power-sharing at Stormont still hangs in the balance

Returning refreshed by a week in Rome, during which I avoided all news sources, I nursed the faint hope that sufficient progress had been made by the parties to enable the speedy restoration of devolution.

Now it seems such heavily guarded optimism was misplaced - just another triumph of hope over experience.

That is not to say there are no straws in the wind. While cryptic, both Arlene Foster's apparent new-found suppleness in respect of cultural matters and Gerry Adams' "hopeful, but not naive" remark taken together hinted at pragmatism. Did they signify a glimmer in the dark? Or were they merely will o' the wisps? It's probably too early to tell just yet, but time is running extremely short.

At this point I have to acknowledge that, since the Sinn Fein-inspired collapse of the institutions earlier this year, I believed that it would not agree to the re-establishment of the Executive and Assembly until the RHI Inquiry has run its course, probably towards the middle of 2018.

Consequentially, it meant that Sinn Fein would veto the return of Mrs Foster as First Minister unless and until she is exonerated fully by the inquiry. In my view this meant a hiatus in devolution for at least 18 months.

Although, perhaps strangely, RHI has not featured prominently in recent exchanges between Sinn Fein and the DUP, nor indeed has Mrs Foster's role, if any, in a swift resurrection of the Executive - its centrality to the continuing stalemate remains, even though it has been obscured by, primarily, the neuralgic issue of a stand-alone Irish Language Act (ILA).

Incidentally, whether expressed as a threat or an opportunity, the current debate over a free-standing ILA reminds me - a South Walian - vividly of the contending arguments that surrounded the introduction of a Welsh Language Act, first in 1967, and then in a more muscular form in 1993.

The latter, which placed Welsh on a co-equal footing with English as an official language, embracing its usage across all public services including the justice system, was greeted with much alarm and dismay by, primarily, Anglophones.

They feared that the Welsh-speaking elite would commandeer public spaces, displace English-only speakers from employment and fuel the political fortunes of Welsh nationalism.

None of these apprehensions was realised. The use of the language and subsequent policies designed to further promote its usage have been normalised by legislation: far from being "weaponised", the Welsh language has been disarmed by legislative action and is now seen as the common stock and property of all across the country.

Whether the Welsh case is an instructive model for Northern Ireland is, admittedly, a moot point, but equally it seems rather myopic of Sinn Fein to insist on a stand-alone ILA, rather than a catch-all piece of legislation that is sensitive to the needs of all cultural traditions here - even though, and perhaps ironically, Ulster-Scots in a strict sense does not qualify as a language.

To return to the main thrust of this article: whither devolution?

If it proves impossible to resolve the current deadlock in whatever time is available then there are two options for the UK Government: a fresh Assembly election, or the formal reintroduction of direct rule.

Let us assume that it dismisses the former, which holds no fear for either the DUP or Sinn Fein, and would anyway merely reinforce existing divisions, and instead plumps reluctantly for direct rule. For those who favour the latter, my message is that you need to be careful what you wish for.

For unionists in general direct rule may well be a tolerable, even welcome, outcome of the present impasse.

But in large measure this depends on how proactive a direct rule regime could turn out to be. It is undeniable that the DUP does have a strong hand at Westminster via its confidence and supply agreement with the UK Government, but it is a hand that is not unconstrained.

What matters is whether the Government, through the agency of the NIO, is minded to be either pro, if not hyperactive on, say, social and economic policy matters, including same-sex marriage and its recent, albeit marginally moderated, austerity package, or alternatively, relatively inactive: that is exercising direct rule in a "lite" rather than heavy manner.

In the short run, its preference I believe would be for a light-touch approach: that is a do-little rather than a do-nothing administration, not least because its hands are already full with Brexit.

On that matter, which will define the current parliament and probably the next, relations between Dublin and the NIO/London will take on especial significance.

In particular the Strand Two, cross-border aspects of the Belfast Agreement could bulk larger as the Brexit negotiations unfold.

While any extended development of those cross-border institutions - surely one means of addressing the vexed border issue - would be embraced by republicans and nationalists, it will receive short shrift from unionists in general and the DUP in particular.

Of course any such initiative would also require the active support of the Dublin, which, to say the least, would be extremely unhappy should direct rule be reimposed, which can only happen if London reintroduces legislation enabling it to formally suspend devolution, a power it relinquished in the 2006 St Andrews Act.

Whatever form relations between London, Belfast and Dublin might take under renewed direct rule, the option of joint authority has been resolutely dismissed more than once by the UK Government, much to the chagrin of Sinn Fein.

Yes, there could be a greener form of direct rule, abbreviated in 2006 as "joint stewardship" by Messrs Blair and Ahern, but whatever they may have meant, it was never intended to imply co-sovereignty over Northern Ireland: the consent principle would and will remain intact.

However proactive or inert direct rule could be, it is an extremely blunt method of governing Northern Ireland. It affords nothing like the level of scrutiny provided by devolution, nor is it a substitute for local knowledge and understanding, whether in relation to health, education, infrastructure or whatever else.

While the NIO might seek to ameliorate direct rule by establishing an Assembly with scrutinising committees, much as Jim Prior attempted in the early-1980s, the likelihood of Sinn Fein participating in such an improvised arrangement is utterly remote.

Meanwhile, the idea that the UK Parliament could match the Assembly in subjecting law and policy to forensic examination is illusory.

The sheer volume of Brexit-related law and policy itself will shunt the day and daily internal governance of Northern Ireland into the margins of Westminster, notwithstanding the salience of the border.

Given the uncertain and fraught context of Brexit, more than ever devolution really does matter - ask the Scots and the Welsh.

Right now, Northern Ireland devolution should be waving, not drowning.

Rick Wilford is Professor of Politics at Queen's University, Belfast
No one likes making mistakes, and it's natural. When we're young, mistakes were a no-no and simply couldn't be accepted. As we became adults the feeling of apprehension associated with making mistakes remained with us and became seared into our psyche. But failure can be instructive and we don't need to shield ourselves from it. Those who can embrace screw ups can find a substantial foundation and find tremendous personal growth. There is always some gem found in a mistake or what is deemed the end of the road for some. Joseph of the Bible messed up and discovered humility through his error. Joseph had a dream of ruling over his family at the age of 17. As the story goes, he prematurely told his brothers about the dream and advised they would surrender to him. Although it was true, Joseph's immaturity led him being traded into slavery by his siblings. Eventually, he became the ruler over Israel and showed us it's possible to rise above our oversights if we move on. We may not become king of a country, but we can take cues from the gaffes we make in life. Here are 6 ways to learn from your mistakes.

They wake us up.

Know it doesn't define you.

It makes you face yourself.

It allows you to encourage others.

It teaches a lesson.

Stop complaining.

Corine Gatti-Santillo is a freelance digital journalist, editor, and content producer. She is also the The Christian Post Voices Editor. She is also a former editor at Beliefnet.com.

Our missteps make us pay more attention and show us we need to fix something that's amiss whether it's in our personal life or in our career. However, focusing on the problem will keep us in a place of hopelessness. Maybe you became complacent and your mindset about your career is negative. Go back and see where you went wrong or where you felt demoralized.Usually, we can find the mistakes of a poor decision or something else get in the way. Once you can identify the error start focusing on a solution like overhauling business skills, learning to take on projects with a fresh intensity or changing career paths. Its okay to have lapses in the way we act. But by making mistakes you will have more precision and look at life from another perspective.Many of us put ourselves down when we make a mistake. Dont make it your identity. Separate failure from you as a person. "Guilt can be very direct or indirect," said Alice Ann Holland, Ph.D., a Dallas neuropsychologist explained to prevention.com. Enveloping yourself with feelings of self-hatred and guilt for an extended time will keep you suspended. However, freeing yourself by not allowing mistakes to own you will help you achieve independence. Obsessing over a mistake will not change the outcome, it will incapacitate a person from pushing forward. You need to come to terms with mistakes and say "Im not going to let this defeat me" or "Im moving on with my life and pushing forth.You must be willing to call yourself out after making a mistake. We can shift the blame and it feels good, but being in denial ties you up with anger. You need to allow your emotions to have a release and admit you were wrong. We can become exhausted from the unconscious hostility and resentment when we hold onto the animosity. Psychology Today shared: "The belief that you are entitled to fairness results from the mistaken idea that you are special." Mistakes could signal something is misaligned in our lives and if our anger is getting in the way, it's time to let it go and let go of the anger over making the mistake.We mentioned about being honest with yourself, but admitting your mistakes to another person encourages people who are having difficulties with their own mistakes. Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times while he was inventing the light bulb and his mistake inspired many people to become inventors. "I have found 10,000 ways something wont work. I am not discouraged because every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward." Look at television mogul Oprah Winfrey who shares regularly about her struggle in the beginning of her career and the mistakes she made. She said: Learn from every mistake, because of every experience and encounter, particularly your mistakes, are there to teach you and force you into being more of who you are. Your mistakes can make people want to live better and encourage them it's okay to fail in the process.Take a step back and look at the bigger picture because when we're looking too closely at something, we miss the details sometimes. There is always something of value to be extracted from a mistake. Maybe you abused your health and learned it's time to start living a healthier lifestyle. Another mistake could be you made work more relevant than your family and now you regret it. Failure helps bring you back to reality and allows you to become more grounded. If you want to make room for happiness, find the lesson and correct your course. Sometimes we need to force ourselves to walk away from things that no longer serve us. This may even re-inspire you to move on and perhaps make peace with yourself.Let your frustrations out, but stop complaining about your mistakes. Dwelling upon mistakes will strip all creativity and confidence. The more you complain about mishaps the more you won't be freed from the trap of perfectionism. Try complaining for a while and watch your happiness tank, it's not worth it. Instead, list what is good in your life on paper and see your mood shift for the better.Mistakes don't have to own you or make life an ever evolving crisis. You can become stronger, better and learn we all need to take responsibility for our choices. Once you learn to embrace your mistakes with balance and reverence, they can be used as a stepping stone to a more insightful life.
A Philippine soldier scans the destruction near ground-zero of gun battles in the southern city of Marawi, Sept. 16, 2017.

Filipino militant Isnilon Hapilon, acknowledged head of the Islamic State (IS) in Southeast Asia, is alive and leading about 80 remaining fighters, including Malaysians and Indonesians, in the southern Philippine city of Marawi, officials said Monday.

The announcement came during a news conference in Manila as military officials briefly presented Catholic priest Teresito Soganub, who they said was rescued by troops from a mosque in the lakeside city.

There are still foreign fighters, mostly Indonesian and Malaysian, armed forces chief Gen. Eduardo Ano told reporters, adding military officials believe about 10 Southeast Asians remain engaged in combat.

Soganub, who was rescued along with a teacher, did not answer questions from reporters.

Thank you to all of you and I pray for you. God bless you all. Pray for me, for my trauma healing recovery. Thank you, God bless you, Soganub said. Oh yeah, I am physically strong.

Previously, the military said several fighters from the Middle East and Southeast Asia joined their Filipino counterparts from the Abu Sayyaf group, led by Hapilon, and the Maute gang.

Military officials admitted it was difficult to establish the actual number of enemy fighters, but on Monday said about 80 or so were still inside the battle zone. This was slightly higher than previous figures which were anywhere between 40 and 60 militants.

In fact, the street-to-street fighting is ongoing as of this moment, and our forces are focused and determined to push the envelope so that soon we can say that Marawi is totally liberated, military spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.

Officials on Monday said 673 militants, 149 soldiers and police and 47 civilians had been killed since fighting erupted on May 23.

Among the latest rebel casualties were Abdullah Maute, one of the leaders of the group bearing his name. Also killed were Madhi Maute and Otto Maute. Three other siblings, including Omarkhayyam, were believed to be alive, the military said.

But military officials said they had no proof of the deaths other than intelligence reports from IS-linked social media sites. Officials previously reported Omarkhayyam had been killed, only to walk back the claim.

Philippine troops march closer to ground-zero of gun battles in the southern city of Marawi, Sept. 16, 2017. (Jeoffrey Maitem/BenarNews.)

Priest offers thanks

Before Mondays news conference, Soganub said there were many times during captivity he thought he would not make it out alive, and he had already resigned his fate to God.

But a massive military attack on a mosque on Saturday led to confusion that allowed the priest and a male teacher to escape.

In his brief statement while aboard a military helicopter that took him to Manila, Soganub said many hostages were still inside the militant lair, adding males were forced to carry weapons and dress up as rebel fighters.

Soganub, who has a long white beard and appeared frail, said he missed eating vegetables and chicken because during his captivity he and the other hostages were fed mostly canned sardines and instant noodles ransacked by the gunmen from abandoned homes in Marawi.

There was plenty of rice. But because of the war, supplies became scarce, he said. They were strict there, you cannot get beyond what was allotted you.

To my brother Maranao Muslims in Marawi: I still believe in interfaith relationship that we could understand each other, he said in his message to his captors. We are not enemies. We should understand each other. We believe in one God.

Soganub, 51, was freed along with Lordbin Acopio, 29, a teacher on Saturday.

On Monday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the military was almost done with the offensive, which is concentrated to about 10 hectares (25 acres).

Officials said about 45 hostages were held with Soganub at Marawis Bato mosque, and apart from the two of them who escaped, the rest could have been moved out by their captors using intricate tunnels and secret chambers they had dug.

President Rodrigo Duterte had said as many as 300 civilians were held hostage by the gunmen, but Soganub said he saw 100 to 200 hostages.

The military said Soganub had told rescuing troops that he did not want to leave.

We wanted to extricate him, told him well go, hed say, Its OK, just leave me here, Ive accepted my fate, Ano said, referring to the priest.

Felipe Villamor in Iligan City, Philippines contributed to this report.
ein Google-Unternehmen

Google-Dienste anzubieten und zu betreiben

Ausfalle zu prufen und Manahmen gegen Spam, Betrug und Missbrauch zu ergreifen

Daten zu Zielgruppeninteraktionen und Websitestatistiken zu erheben. Mit den gewonnenen Informationen mochten wir verstehen, wie unsere Dienste verwendet werden, und die Qualitat dieser Dienste verbessern.

neue Dienste zu entwickeln und zu verbessern

Werbung auszuliefern und ihre Wirkung zu messen

personalisierte Inhalte anzuzeigen, abhangig von Ihren Einstellungen

personalisierte Werbung anzuzeigen, abhangig von Ihren Einstellungen

Wenn Sie Alle ablehnen auswahlen, verwenden wir Cookies nicht fur diese zusatzlichen Zwecke.

Nicht personalisierte Inhalte und Werbung werden u. a. von Inhalten, die Sie sich gerade ansehen, und Ihrem Standort beeinflusst (welche Werbung Sie sehen, basiert auf Ihrem ungefahren Standort). Personalisierte Inhalte und Werbung konnen auch Videoempfehlungen, eine individuelle YouTube-Startseite und individuelle Werbung enthalten, die auf fruheren Aktivitaten wie auf YouTube angesehenen Videos und Suchanfragen auf YouTube beruhen. Sofern relevant, verwenden wir Cookies und Daten auerdem, um Inhalte und Werbung altersgerecht zu gestalten.

Wir verwenden Cookies und Daten, umWenn Sie Alle akzeptieren auswahlen, verwenden wir Cookies und Daten auch, umWahlen Sie Weitere Optionen aus, um sich zusatzliche Informationen anzusehen, einschlielich Details zum Verwalten Ihrer Datenschutzeinstellungen. Sie konnen auch jederzeit g.co/privacytools besuchen.
Throughout my time at Bowling Green State University, I always had an interest in studying abroad, but with my financial situation and class schedules making it a time crunch to graduate in five years, I just knew that it could not be possible. As my final school year was approaching, it looked like I was going to have a little bit more time left than I originally thought and I had to stay an extra semester. I was bummed that I had to stay even longer, but little did I know it was going to be everything that I needed.

Last fall, my professors, Dr. Susan Peet and Dr. Laura Landry-Meyer brought up an opportunity that they thought would be good for me as a Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) major , which was a study abroad program at SantAnna Institute in Sorrento, Italy. I got extremely excited hearing about this opportunity because it would give me the chance to study families of a different cultural background, which is a dream for an HDFS major. I was still discouraged, though, because of personal reasons, but after spending a lot of time discussing plans, and with their encouragement and support, I was able to make it possible.

I was so excited for this opportunity, but pretty nervous at the same time. This was my first time outside of the United States and I was not sure what to expect, especially traveling with so many other people that I did not know very well. Although I was nervous about many things, it turned out to be one of the greatest decisions in my entire life.

We traveled around Italy for a total of 18 days. We started off in Venice and then we traveled to Murano, Burano, Florence, Pisa, Milan, Amalfi, Positano, Capri, Pompeii and Rome. All of these cities were very unique, and I learned so many new things about the Italian culture every single day. The views that I had the chance to see were absolutely breathtaking. Being able to see the famous landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the countless beautiful Cathedrals, the Colosseum, Statue of David, the original painting of The Last Supper, the famous Murano glass, and so many other great things, in person, was the most special experience. I not only learned a lot about a different culture on this trip, but I learned about families, individuals, my peers and, most important, myself.

I am so fortunate to have been able to travel to Italy and live in a different culture. I took away far more than I could have ever imagined and it helped put a lot of things in my life into perspective. I cannot quite put into words just how incredible this study abroad experience was for me. Being able to interact and collaborate with others at the SantAnna Institute, kayak and snorkel in the Bay of Naples, climb Mt. Vesuvius, devour amazing Italian meals and gelato, ride on a Gondola, throw a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain and many other priceless opportunities, made for an incredible study abroad experience. I had the chance to grow closer to some of my favorite mentors as well as get to know 18 wonderful people who I can now call my friends, that I am able to share this amazing experience with, and for this, I am truly grateful.

For those who are reading this, I want to leave you with some advice. Take advantage of every opportunity when you get the chance. It does not matter if you are an incoming freshman or if you are a fifth-year student like me, it is never too late to experience something life changing. Do not be afraid to reach out for help because the opportunities are there for those who seek them. The exceptional study abroad programs that BGUS has to offer is something that I wish I took advantage of sooner, but everything happens for a reason and I am very grateful to be able to share a bit of my experience with you all. I hope that you too get the chance to study abroad at some point in your college career because I am forever changed by my leap of faith that I decided to take.
By Bonnie Blankinship

Hailed as an economic boon for a struggling city, the rapidly progressing revitalization and gentrification of Detroit neighborhoods has had the unintended consequence of leaving many longtime residents feeling left behind and without ready access to food stores and other essential businesses.

But Bowling Green State University junior Kyle Jumper-Smith has not forgotten about his hometown. Inspired by those who have given generously to him, this summer he organized the second Project Feed Thy Neighbor for his neighborhood, the Cass Corridor. It was a day of empowerment providing food, fellowship and positivity. This years event fed 422 people through the help of many donors and 76 volunteers who manned grills, served food, greeted attendees and managed the lines.

It wasnt just about giving out food but also about uplifting people, said Jumper-Smith, an inclusive early childhood education major and former Student Leadership Assistant (SLA) in the Center for Leadership. We challenged our volunteers to reach out to talk with people about what was going on and give each person a positive message of empowerment and a hug. We wanted to create a loving space.

This was a great experience to see the BGSU community collaborate with other students from other institutions and promote positivity and love in a community that is being abandoned due to new business ventures, he said. We also had people from Michigan State University, Kentucky State University, Grand Valley State University, Morehouse College and my alma mater, Lewis Cass Technical High School.

He dedicated the event to his late grandmother. She would have wanted me to do something like this, he said.

Im in the Presidents Leadership Academy and Im a Thompson Scholar, Jumper-Smith said. During the summer program leading up to our first year in college, my cohort was shown a news special about a couple from Detroit, Robert and Ellen Thompson, who presented their employees bonuses for their hard work and dedication to their family-owned asphalt company after they sold their holdings in Thompson-McCully to a company in Ireland. I was so inspired by them and their vision and I got to meet them at homecoming my first two years here. I also heard about all the other projects that they have contributed to the city of Detroit through their Thompson Education Fund.

The Thompsons are major benefactors of BGSU, having provided support for the 2001 renovation of the student union (now the Bowen-Thompson Student Union) and for the Presidents Leadership Academy (PLA), which draws many students from the Detroit area.

Jumper-Smith said the PLA teaches servant leadership and giving back to your community, as the Thompsons have done.

I was given the best and most generous gift that was ever given to me  four years of college for free  and I am so honored and appreciative. So my first year I was thinking about what I could do, he said.

I was given the best and most generous gift that was ever given to me  four years of college for free  and I am so honored and appreciative. So my first year I was thinking about what I could do, he said.

He and his high school classmates and friends had been disturbed seeing people in their neighborhood going without food after a lot of the stores in the Cass Corridor area were slowly closing business, which meant that reasonably priced food was becoming limited in the area. There are no affordable grocery stores in the area now, and the only grocery store that is within walking distance is a Whole Foods Market on Mack Avenue, which would make purchasing a months worth of groceries harder on most individuals in the area due to their higher prices.

Jumper-Smith noted that, with the new and improved business ventures and revitalization of downtown Detroit, jobs and food security should spill over into the surrounding communities, but so far they have seen none of that. Also, local shelters have planned to relocate to other locations in the city, which limits resources to those in the Cass Corridor tremendously, he said.

He saw a model for help in the former Black Panther Partys Service to the People programs that had provided nutritious, high-quality food to families in neglected neighborhoods. He and his closest friends organized the first Feed Thy Neighbor event in 2016 for his 20th birthday, and it was a success. This year Im 21 so I thought, OK, I have to make it even bigger.

Kyle has just always been very passionate about the way he views Detroit and going home, said Shaunda Brown, a 2014 alumna and now second-year graduate student in the College Student Personnel program who was the graduate adviser to the Black Student Union (BSU) when Jumper-Smith was vice president of the organization. Theres all this rhetoric around Once you leave, dont come back, but hes always been so charismatic and so passionate about where he came from.

Jumper-Smith said Brown has been an important mentor to him, always affirming his plans and then encouraging him to take them even further. She pushes students to do amazing things in the community, he said. Shes led me to do meaningful things in my leadership.

He used his newfound leadership skills to manage the event, carefully thinking through all the details. His focus in high school had been journalism and media, and he called upon his good communication skills to spread the word.

Targeting Millennials (people ages 18-25), he used social media to invite them to participate through volunteering and donating money, food and supplies. He found sponsors willing to lend a grill, chairs or other items. He utilized online sign-up and donation applications and an electronic record-keeping software to assign tasks and keep track of progress. He encouraged volunteers to be thoughtful and respectful in the use of photos and social media during the event so as not to make neighbors feel uncomfortable. And he asked that they end any interaction with a hug and a positive message.

People were energized, and the response was even greater than he and his co-organizers had hoped. A friend from Atlanta surprised me by driving up the night before. He said, Well, I was here for the first one so I thought Id better be here for this one, Jumper-Smith said, smiling.

Colleagues from the PLA and Undergraduate Student Government, where Jumper-Smith is the former vice president and current director for diversity affairs, pitched in. Other members of the BSU, including President Angelica Euseary (also a PLA member) and Vice President Zarina Cornelius, helped out, as did administrator Juantez Bates, a fellow PLA and SLA member and former BSU president. Zeta Phi Beta sorority members served the food. Rashard Thomas, a good friend from Cass Corridor and current PLA scholar and SMART mentor, served as photographer.

Even with all their planning, Jumper-Smith said, I was very nervous about its impact on the community and how it would be received. I hoped people would see it as a loving space and not something we were imposing on them. But all my fears were proven wrong and it was a great day.

Euseary, who grew up near Cass Corridor and attended middle school with Jumper-Smith, said, It was a really nice event. Id done community service in the area before, but this had more of a family feeling. It was a different vibe and it was nice to be creating these memories.

Something as basic as talking to homeless people like theyre people, she said, was an important part of the days spirit of loving-kindness.

Although she seemed doubtful that neighborhoods in the wake of gentrification could affect its relentless progression, Forming these bonds and relationships as a whole is the only way we can ever make a difference, she said. We want to show there are people who care about them and want to help.

Back in Bowling Green, Jumper-Smith regularly participates in community service during the school year, with his PLA classmates. His favorite activities are Literacy in the Park and Feed My Starving Children, events that nourish the mind and the body.

He would love to see Feed Thy Neighbor become a monthly event instead of once a year, possibly sponsored by a nonprofit organization. Id also like to see it come to Toledo neighborhoods and be organized by BGSU students. Its another way for you to grow within your community.
Von: Rolf Kleine

One week until the federal election  but Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel (SPD) hardly has time for campaigning. Gabriel travelled to Beijing in order to open the biggest exhibition of German contemporary art ever held in China. BILD met with the Foreign Minister on the plane and talked with him about North Korea, refugees, and the election.

BILD: How can the world stop Kim, the crazy dictator?

Sigmar Gabriel: North Koreas dictator, Kim Jong-un, is not crazy at all. He is following a carefully developed strategy. He thinks that his regime will be safe if he has a nuclear bomb. Nobody will dare to threaten him.

So far, all sanctions against the regime in North Korea have failed. What now?

Gabriel: It often takes time for the effects of sanctions to be felt. We saw this in Iran. However, just like North Korea, we need a different safety guarantee than the nuclear bomb. SPD Chancellors Brandt and Schmidt created this in Europe  the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe. It brought three powers to the table: the US, China, and Russia.

The US is governed by Trump, China is trampling on human rights, and Russia is occupying Crimea 

Gabriel: True. However, the SPD policy of detente and disarmament pursued by Willy Brandt also began during the darkest hour of the Cold War, with the Warsaw Pact invasion of Prague in 1968. In the end, Brandt and his successors, Schmidt and Kohl, succeeded, and German reunification ensued. It is again time for visions and courageous measures.

North Korea, Syria, Yemen  which conflict worries you most?

Gabriel: As the father of three daughters, I often wonder whether my children will be lucky enough to grow up in times of peace, as I did. If North Korea achieves its aims, other states will follow its example and obtain nuclear weapons. Our children would then live in a very dangerous world.

I prevented arms exports

In Europe, we hardly hear anything about the war in Yemen, despite the killing of more than 10 000 people, including more than 1000 children. Is this because we are allies with Saudi Arabia, one of the parties in the conflict?

Auch interessant

Gabriel: Whats happening in Yemen is a humanitarian catastrophe of apocalyptic dimensions. We, the Social Democrats, have stopped the CDU/CSU and FDPs disastrous policy of exporting arms to Saudi Arabia. To this day, the CDU and Chancellor Merkel want to deliver a German arms factory to Saudi Arabia, where a quarter of a million German assault rifles could be produced. The same applies to tanks and other heavy weapons. The SPD and I have prevented this, because it would have been irresponsible. Angela Merkel and the CDU/CSU hope to revive this arms deal after the federal election, together with the FDP. It is worth voting SPD for this reason alone. I am glad that Germany has stopped the arms exports to Saudi Arabia to a large extent. If Chancellor Merkel and the CDU had had their way, Germany would also have delivered artillery and assault rifles to Saudi Arabia. I managed to prevent this in time.

Mr. Gabriel, you were in China last week. This week, you are giving a speech at the United Nations in New York. Is this your last official trip as Foreign Minister?

Gabriel (laughs): Do you get the impression that I no longer want to do this?

No, on the contrary! But seriously: what is the likelihood of your being a minister in the next German government?

Gabriel: That decision is really up to the voters. If you want a foreign policy in which Germany keeps promoting disarmament and arms control, you have to vote for Martin Schulz and the SPD. Unfortunately, Chancellor Merkel wants to give in to the pressure exercised by US President Trump and double the military budget. That means that nothing will be left for education, pensions, or investing in the future.

In the spring, it looked as if the election campaign would mean a head-to-head race between Angela Merkel and SPD candidate, Martin Schulz. What stopped the SPDs comeback?

Gabriel: Primarily, losing three regional elections. Ever since, it has been a battle to come back  a battle which Martin Schulz is leading with admirable clarity and strength. Unfortunately, the CDU/CSU was afraid of any further TV debates with him. They know why.

Lesen Sie auch

Have politicians underestimated how important the refugee issue is to citizens?

Gabriel: Some politicians did. Only the SPD candidate for the chancellery, Martin Schulz, openly addressed peoples worries regarding this issue. Angela Merkel and the CDU/CSU have avoided it. Even worse: they all immediately attacked Martin Schulz. They claimed that you must not talked about worries about the influx of refugees because the right-wing populists will profit from it. Complete nonsense! The opposite is true: if we democrats do not talk about peoples worries, the enemies of democracy will. It is already a good result when people realize that democratic politicians feel and think the same as they do. Then we can also find common responses to their concerns.

What is your response?

Gabriel: The most important thing is to show that nobody will be forgotten. Very often, I hear people say: You have money for the refugees, but allegedly you have no money for my pension, for renovating the schools, and for our cities. This is a dangerous statement. From the beginning, Martin Schulz and I have therefore demanded that our own citizens must not be overlooked. We have a twofold task of integration: integrating the people who have recently arrived, and keeping together those who have always lived here. To this day, the CDU and CSU do not understand that.

How is this supposed to work, exactly?

Gabriel: We must not spend more and more money on the build-up of arms, as Donald Trump expects Germany to do. Angela Merkel, unfortunately, wants to comply. We also must not lower taxes for the wealthy, as the FDP again demands. Instead, we finally need a minimum pension for people who have worked for decades. It is unacceptable that their pension is lower than the social benefits for people who have never worked at all. Communities that take in refugees must be reimbursed for the costs of integrations. But they also need the same amount on top of that, so that they can do something for their citizens  so that they can finally renovate the schools and do not have to close public swimming pools. We need more apartments so that renting remains affordable. We have to show the Germans that we are a strong country and that nobody will be forgotten because of the refugees. When I demanded this of Merkel and Schauble, Finance Minister Schauble called it pitiful. We even had to enforce the filling of 3 000 new federal police jobs against the will of the CDU Minister of the Interior. He had left thousands of positions vacant. The CDU/CSU did not want to do anything for the citizens. It thereby contributed to some people in Germany feeling that they have been forgotten.

Many citizens think that the grand coalition did good work over the past four years  also because of the SPD ministers achievements. Why are these not properly appreciated by the citizens?

Gabriel: Because elections never reward successful policies. They are an advance for what people want in the future. In 2013, the SPD made several promises to the voters: the minimum wage, more money for nurseries, social housing, reintroducing retirement at age 63 for labourers and 65 for employees, and many other projects. And now were also saying: if the SPD is in government, there will be more money for education, tax relief for families, equal pay for women and men, no retirement at 70, but better pensions, and  most of all  no doubling of the military budget, which is what the Union and the FDP want. And we have shown: we keep our promises.

Sometimes you get the impression that the SPD is afraid of actively highlighting its achievements 

Gabriel: For the SPD, the following holds: better is the enemy of good. This is an attractive trait of the SPD, but it sometimes prevents us from properly selling our own achievements during elections campaigns.

Is it more difficult to campaign against a woman?

Gabriel: Not if you behave properly. Schulz is doing this with clear, but polite words.

PS: Sind Sie bei Facebook? Werden Sie Fan von BILD.de-Politik!
For Immediate Release, September 18, 2017

Contact: Jenny Loda, (510) 844-7100 x 336 or jloda@biologicaldiversity.org

Emergency Endangered Species Protections Sought for Nevadas Dixie Valley Toad

Recently Discovered Toads Survival Threatened by Geothermal Project Proposal

RENO, Nev. The Center for Biological Diversity formally petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today seeking emergency Endangered Species Act protection for the Dixie Valley toad, a newly discovered toad species found in central Nevada.

The toads survival is imminently threatened by a proposed geothermal energy project in its range.

This Dixie Valley toad was only recently discovered to be a unique species, and its already in grave danger, said Jenny Loda, a Center attorney and scientist focused on protecting amphibians and reptiles. The only place on Earth the toad calls home is threatened by this deeply irresponsible geothermal project.

The Dixie Valley toad is found in remote wetlands fed by thermal desert springs on the western edge of the Dixie Valley Playa in Nevadas Churchill County. The toads range is restricted to less than 1,500 acres, making it especially vulnerable to any impacts on its habitat. Like many of Nevada's groundwater-dependent species, it relies on consistent spring flow for survival. The beautiful little toad has large, prominent eyes. Its olive-colored body is dotted with black freckles and rust-colored warts bordered by black halos.

The Bureau of Land Management is currently reviewing the proposed Dixie Meadows Geothermal Development Project, which would harm the toad in constructing facilities and infrastructure on or near its habitat. The project would pump almost 46,000 acre-feet of water per year from the natural underground geothermal reservoir, altering groundwater flow patterns and potentially draining the toads wetland habitat.

Its horrible to think we may lose this new toad just as were beginning to learn about it, said Loda. Protecting it under the Endangered Species Act is essential to the animals survival.

In addition to geothermal development in its range, threats to the Dixie Valley toad include disease, climate change, invasive species and groundwater extraction.

The Service has 90 days to respond to todays petition.

Read more about the Centers campaign to address the amphibian and reptile extinction crisis.
For Immediate Release, September 18, 2017



Contact: Randi Spivak, (310) 779-4894, rspivak@biologicaldiversity.org

Miyoko Sakashita, (510) 845-6703, miyoko@biologicaldiversity.org Zinke Recommends Removing Protections From 10 National Monuments Utah, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Maine, Marine Monuments Would Be Opened to Timber, Fossil Fuel, Fishing Industries WASHINGTON Secretary Ryan Zinke is asking President Trump to slash protections from 10 iconic national monuments and significantly shrink at least four of them  Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante in Utah, Gold Butte in Nevada and Cascade Siskiyou in California and Oregon. The Trump administration has not yet commented on the recommendations, which Zinke submitted last month but which have been kept secret until they were leaked to the Wall Street Journal. If Trump moves forward with this dismantling of public lands, he will be challenged in court. Zinke says he wants to perpetuate traditional uses, but hes actually promoting traditional abuses. Logging, mining, grazing, fracking and drilling destroy wildlife habitat and objects of scientific and cultural importance, said Randi Spivak, public lands program director at the Center. Zinke and Trump are displaying their disdain for these magnificent public lands and the millions of people who demanded they remain protected. Trump has no authority to make any of the changes that Zinkes recommending. If he tries to, well see him in court. Zinke recommends eviscerating protections for the following national monuments: Bears Ears and Grand Canyon-Escalante in Utah; Cascade-Siskiyou in Oregon-California; Gold Butte in Nevada; Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte in New Mexico; and Katahdin Woods and Waters in Maine. He also wants to open three marine monuments to commercial fishing: Northeast Canyons and Seamounts in the Atlantic; Pacific Remote Islands; and Rose Atoll in the South Pacific. Zinkes hostility to these spectacular underwater jewels is an affront to biological diversity and human decency, said Miyoko Sakashita, oceans program director at the Center. Unleashing industrial fishing on these incredible ocean environments is like inviting mining into the Grand Canyon. Trump and Zinke are shirking our countrys responsibility to protect marine life.

In April Trump ordered the Department of the Interior to review the designation of 27 national monuments  those larger than 100,000 acres protected since 1996. His goal was to trigger dramatic changes in monument protections or boundaries to allow fossil fuel development, logging, mining and other development on these public lands. Zinke submitted his report to Trump by the Aug. 24 deadline, but it has not been publicly released. The Center has filed a public records request for the report, and sued for all information related to Zinkes review.



More than 2.8 million people wrote to Zinke and the Interior Department on this matter, nearly all of them urging the administration to preserve protections for these iconic places. Zinke visited a handful of national monuments and met almost exclusively with their opponents, including representatives of the oil, gas and timber industries. He arbitrarily decided to take no action on six national monuments, without providing any criteria for his decisions to leave current protections in place. National monument designations have protected some of the most spectacular public landscapes in the country from fossil fuel extraction, mining and logging. Dozens of the nation's most treasured national parks were first protected as monuments, including Grand Teton, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Acadia and Olympic national parks. Zinke and Trump only understand exploitation and greed, Spivak said. These irreplaceable public lands belong to all Americans, and we all lose if our natural inheritance is exploited for corporate gain. To reach the Centers monuments experts on the ground, contact: Basin and Range, Gold Butte: Patrick Donnelly, (702) 483-0449, pdonnelly@biologicaldiversity.org Carrizo Plain, Mojave Trails, Giant Sequoia, Berryessa Snow Mountain, San Gabriel Mountains, Castle Mountains: Ileene Anderson, (323) 654-5943, ianderson@biologicaldiversity.org Bears Ears, Grand Staircase-Escalante: Taylor McKinnon, (801) 300-2414, tmckinnon@biologicaldiversity.org Vermillion Cliffs: Taylor McKinnon, (801) 300-2414, tmckinnon@biologicaldiversity.org Ironwood: Curtis Bradley, (520) 623-5252, cbradley@biologicaldiversity.org Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks: Michael Robinson, (575) 313-7017, michaelr@biologicaldiversity.org Cascade-Siskiyou: Jennifer Molidor, (707) 888-9261, jmolidor@biologicaldiversity.org Katahdin Woods and Waters: Mollie Matteson, mmatteson@biologicaldiversity.org
The construction of a liquefied natural gas terminal in Ghana to support power generation in the Kpone Power Enclave in the port city of Tema, near Accra, is reawakening hopes of an end to the energy crisis that has plagued the country in recent years.

Henri Konan Bedie bridge, Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Credit: ppp.gouv.ci.

Power outages have led to a rationing schedule that involves cutting power for 24 hours every two days. Businesses have been forced to connect standby power sources such as generators, incurring extra costs. Some have had to lay off workers.

The $600 million project, being implemented under a public-private partnership (PPP) between Quantum Power Ghana Gas and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, is expected to provide the West African nation with a reliable and efficient power supply.

The plant will add about 220 megawatts of electricity to Ghanas national grid. The country now has 2,900 megawatts of generation capacity, not enough to meet the growing demand, which the National Energy Policy of 2010 estimated would be about 5,000 megawatts by 2016.

We hope the project will address the dumsor once and for all, says Nancy Osabutey, a resident of Accra. Dumsor (on-off) is a Ghanaian term commonly used to describe the erratic power availability in the country.

A recent report by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research, a Ghanaian-based think tank, estimates that the economy has lost $24 billion as a result of the energy crisis since 2010.

Like many African countries, Ghana is facing an infrastructure financing gap. Policy makers are starting to realise that PPPs can help fill such gaps.

Infrastructure financing gap

Africa has been growing over the last few years. It will be challenging to achieve economic growth without addressing the huge infrastructure financing and access gap in energy generation and transmission, roads and ports, says Tilahun Temesgen, the chief regional economist at the Eastern Africa Resource Centre of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The AfDB maintains that the continent needs about $100 billion per year for infrastructure investment, yet the total spending on infrastructure by African countries is just about half that, leaving a financing gap of about $50 billion.

This difference should come from somewhere. Tapping into private-sector investment by unleashing the potential of PPPs is one innovative way of attracting financing for infrastructure in Africa, as this has a very high development and poverty reduction impact in Africa, states Temesgen.

He adds, Governments and development partners cannot fully close the current huge infrastructure financing gap. It is therefore vital to mobilise private-sector financing to support infrastructure developments.

Private-sector financing is succeeding in different parts of the continent, just as it soon may in Ghana through the Kpone power plant.

In Cote dIvoire, the Henri Konan Bedie bridge in the capital, Abidjan, is considered one of the most successful PPP-funded projects in the post-conflict country. The $265 million bridge, opened in 2014, connects two of Abidjans major districtsRiviera in the north and Marcory in the south - and has done away with over 10 kilometres of traffic congestion. About a 100 000 vehicles use the bridge each day.

This facility enables us to enjoy the benefits of better traffic conditions. We now take less time in traffic, meaning more time for productivity at work. A while ago we would spend more than three hours in traffic, says Abraham Kone, a resident of Abidjan.

The bridge has also opened up the neighbouring hinterland, simplifying freight transportation to the Port of Abidjan, the largest port on Africas west coast.

Public-private partnership is also diversifying the countrys energy sector. The expansion of the Azito thermal energy plant involving the construction of two 144-megawatt power plants will save $4 million in energy costs each year and will enable Cote dIvoire to move from being a net importer of electricity to being a net exporter.

With the expansion, the energy plant, located six kilometres west of the port of Abidjan, is producing over 30% of electricity generated in Cote dIvoire, with some of it going to neighbouring countries, including Ghana.

Sustainable development

Partnering with the private sector to promote sustainable development is something the government is talking a lot about.

According to Albert Toikeusse Mabri Abdallah, the Ivorian minister for planning and development, Public-private partnership is in line with Cote dIvoires National Development Plan, which outlines building and renovating the countrys infrastructure to accelerate development. The minister adds that such collaboration will also ensure job creation and poverty alleviation.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) envisage that PPPs can promote sustainable development in Africa. A key priority of the UN-founded SDG Fund is to bring together public and private entities to jointly address development challenges.

However, many African countries, according to an AfDB report, are still in the initial stages of PPP implementation because their use of PPP schemes is still uncommon and PPPs are complex to implement.

The report indicates that PPPs have historically been scarcer in sub-Saharan Africa than in the rest of the world. Telecoms transactions account form the bulk of PPPs on the continent, but energy PPPs have recently started growing significantly.

PPPs are not easy. They need a number of issues to be successful. Above all, a stable macroeconomic environment is necessary, explains Temesgen.

However, an environment characterised by inadequate regulatory frameworks, unclear rules and procedures and lack of political commitment inhibits growth of PPPs.

Uganda PPPs

Uganda is one of the countries with a solid PPP programme. According to the AfDB document, this is the result of many factors, including support from the presidency and the ministry of finance, an earlier successful privatisation programme and a well-designed framework.

At a meeting in South Korea last November, Ajedra Gabriel Gadison Aridru, Ugandas state minister for finance, planning and economic development, cited the PPP Act enacted in 2015 as a major enabler of the countrys PPPs. The law spells out the specific engagements of private partners in such partnerships. It also regulates the roles and responsibilities of government bodies during the development and implementation of PPP projects.

Concerns have been raised about severe environmental hazards following PPPs. Ghana Gas Company, for example, has been accused of failing to act as areas such as Atuabo, in western Ghana, continue to suffer the effects of oil and gas exploration that have led to widespread air and water pollution.

Because of concerns like this, governments are being urged to disclose information on risk assessments, including potential environmental and social impacts, of such mega-projects. Institutions such as the Bretton Woods Project would like to see more informed consultations, broader civil society involvement and closer monitoring of PPPs by all stakeholders.

Source: United Nations Africa Renewal.
SAN FRANCISCO, US: A trio of former Google employees filed a lawsuit accusing the technology giant of paying women less than men for the same work.

The lawsuit filed in a San Francisco state court on behalf of the three women accused Google of "systemic and pervasive pay and promotion discrimination against its female employees" in California.

Lawyers are seeking class-action status for the suit in a bid to represent more women currently or formerly employed at Google.

Responding to the lawsuit, the US technology giant denied any discriminatory policies.

"We work really hard to create a great workplace for everyone, and to give everyone the chance to thrive here," Google spokeswoman Gina Scigliano said in response to an AFP inquiry.

"In relation to this particular lawsuit, we'll review it in detail, but we disagree with the central allegations."

Lawyers for the women accuse Google of violating California equal pay law along with the state labour code.

The complaint also alleged Google consistently assigned women to "lower tiers" or "job ladders" with lower compensation and fewer opportunities for promotion than their male counterparts.

Plaintiff Kelly Ellis said in a statement released by attorneys that the lawsuit addresses "a pervasive problem of gender bias at Google."

Google's Scigliano maintained that job levels and promotions at the company were determined through "rigorous" committees and undergo review that includes checking for gender bias.

"If we ever see individual discrepancies or problems, we work to fix them," she said.

The suit comes with the US Labour Department auditing pay practices into possible gender discrimination.

It also comes as Google deals with the aftermath of a firestorm over sexism and free speech sparked by a "manifesto" published as an internal memo by then-employee James Damore.

The memo by a Google engineer defended the Silicon Valley gender gap, claiming that "biological differences" were a key factor in the low percentage of women in technology jobs.

The memo was leaked outside the company, and triggered outcry from those claiming it perpetuated stereotypes and discrimination.

The controversy came with Silicon Valley struggling in the face of accusations of rampant sexual harassment and discrimination affecting startups like Uber and venture capital firms investing in the sector.
There is huge diversity within and across the 49 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The challenges these countries face in achieving health outcomes that are at par with low and middle income countries in other regions of the world are numerous and diverse. But they are not insuperable.

The future of health in sub-Saharan Africa is the focus of a new major report, The path to longer and healthier lives for all Africans by 2030. This Lancet Commission report is the culmination of more than four years of work among leading African academics, researchers, policymakers, business leaders, civil society organisations, and non-African collaborators.

The Lancet Commission believes:

that by 2030 Africans should have the same opportunities for long and healthy lives that new technologies, well-functioning health systems, and good governance offer people living on other continents.

To achieve this, the report offers 12 strategic directions that all sub-Saharan countries should consider in their policies and plans. These include the promotion of health, prevention of disease, and expansion of access to treatment and care. While these 12 options apply to all countries in sub-Saharan Africa, each country must adapt these in line with its specific needs, resources and culture.

The researchers call on countries to build on homegrown solutions to sustain improvements in health outcomes. Central to these is investment in higher education and research. The report argues that:

local research is the main way to identify challenges, set priorities, devise solutions, and make the best use of limited resources. Local research is also needed to understand and address health priorities, service problems, and socio-cultural issues of vulnerable groups.

The gap between sub-Saharan Africa and other regions of the world is most accentuated in terms of research and higher education. The region not only has a critical shortage of researchers but a large percentage of researchers spend less than two years in African institutions. Most of these researchers leave to become experts on Africa in the countries where much of the research monies come from.

But the report argues:

Sub-Saharan countries have unprecedented opportunities to substantially improve health outcomes within a generation, largely with their own resources.

Funding for research

Sub-Saharan Africa invests the least in funding for research. No country in the region invests up to 1% of its GDP in research and development compared to a global average of 2.12%. In some countries like South Korea and Israel, this percentage is above 4%.

Much of the research in sub-Saharan Africa is through international collaborations. Such collaborations accounted for 79% of East African research output in 2012. Most importantly, these collaborations are almost always with non-African partners and involve unequal partnerships. Research collaborations among African institutions account for less than 3% of Africas total research output.

There has been massive growth in the number of higher education institutions in SSA. Student enrolment in Africa is also increasing rapidly, especially at the undergraduate level. But there has not been corresponding growth in levels of funding, staffing, facilities and infrastructure in higher education. This has generally undermined the quality of university education, especially postgraduate education.

As part of the renewal of African universities, some have called for differentiation of universities in which a few focus more on research and postgraduate training. As the Commission report noted,

Fifteen universities from eight countries have formed the African Research Universities Alliance, with the aim of strengthening research and postgraduate training in Africa.

Despite these challenges, African research is on the ascendancy. Health research accounts for much of the growth in research output, often reflecting the priority of external funders of research. Between 2000 and 2014, sub-Saharan Africa achieved a growth of 251% in research output compared to 96% globally.

While impressive, this also reflects the very low base of Africas contribution to global knowledge production. The continent currently accounts for only 26% of the worlds output of scientific papers. Most of this output is from South African universities.

Africans must take the lead

The Commission report underscores the need for Africans to take the lead on the health, scientific, and development challenges in close collaboration with the global research community. It offers several recommendations to strengthen research and higher education sector, which among others, include:

Each country to develop a 10 to 20-year strategic plan for national health research. This should be coupled with a financing strategy for creating and strengthening departments and institutions responsible for all areas of research.



Increase research and development funding to at least 1% of GDP and to

allocate at least 2% of national health expenditure and at least 5% of external aid for health projects and programmes to research and research capacity building.

Invest in internationally competitive centres of scientific excellence and expand post-doctoral programmes to raise the quality of higher education and research.



Expand research and education collaborations, particularly within Africa, and reshape international research partnerships around mutual agenda setting and benefit.



Academic institutions in sub-Saharan countries to invest in the development of contextually relevant health sector governance and leadership programmes.



Finally, the report recommends that international agencies should support the strengthening of higher education and research institutions by incorporating core funding and removing arbitrarily low caps on overheads on project grants.

Research collaboration

With the lack of critical mass of skilled researchers in many African countries, strengthening regional research collaboration could be a strategic priority for the region.

African countries could consider creating a basket of funding for research which countries could contribute to. Researchers within the contributing countries would then compete for funding from the pool. Development partners can be invited to provide matching funds thereby increasing the size of the basket.

The African Development Bank or some other continental body could centrally manage the funds and underwrite the associated administrative costs. Further requirements can be introduced. For example, applications could be limited to collaborative research involving researchers from at least two countries or sub-regions. Preference could also be given to applications with collaborators from countries with weak national research systems.

These measures, together, will represent a serious shift in mindsets, which the commissioners argued is key to achieving meaningful and sustainable change in health in sub-Saharan Africa.
Impala Platinum (Implats), the world's second-largest producer of the metal, is heading for turbulent times as it cuts jobs and tackles its unprofitable Rustenburg mines, the biggest contributor to group production and a major factor to its full-year loss.

Nico Muller, CEO: Implats. Picture: Robert Tshabalala /Financial Mail

Implats is the latest mining company to tackle its unprofitable old shafts and follows AngloGold Ashanti and Sibanye Stillwater, which are preparing to close decades-old shafts, and the closure of Bokoni platinum mine jointly owned by Atlatsa Resources and Anglo American Platinum (Amplats), cutting a total of 20,000 jobs.

The South African mining industry has cut 70,000 jobs in the past five years.

Given the political backlash from the government and unions when Amplats unveiled job cuts of 14,000 people four years ago, with threats made by then mineral resources minister Susan Shabangu against the company's mining rights, Implats has already started talking to the government and unions before unveiling its plans.

Implats could start by shedding up to 4,000 positions, keeping the number relatively low to avoid a backlash, and then progressively reducing the headcount until the company reached a sustainably profitable level of production of about 550,000oz from the Rustenburg mines, said Nedbank analyst Leon Esterhuizen.

The scale of job cuts is not yet known, but the R2.7bn loss incurred at the Rustenburg mines had forced an inevitable restructuring as the Implats board regarded the continued low platinum price as the new normal, new CEO Nico Muller said. The job cuts process is expected to start in the next few weeks.

Implats recorded a taxed loss of R8.1bn for the year to endJune, compared with a R43m loss the year before.

A R10.2bn impairment against payments to the Bafokeng was one of the drivers of the loss. Its shares were among the worst performers, falling 7%.

The Rustenburg mines were scheduled to produce 830,000oz of platinum from 2020 as the company brought two new shafts into production. But the new plan expects the Rustenburg mines to produce 750,000oz in 2022 because of the earlier closure of old shafts and delays to the new 16 and 20 shafts, which need an additional R700m over five years to complete them.

The Rustenburg shafts - 90% of which are unprofitable - have been organised into three groups, with the old mines set to be harvested or mined with no further capital investment over the next two years before being shut.

These four old shafts will contribute 100,000oz in the current financial year before dropping to 50,000oz from then on.

Under Muller, who was appointed five months ago, the unprofitable and underperforming Marula mine was put on notice that if attempts to fix the problems, including cutting 980 jobs and stopping two underground areas, were not effective the mine would be shut. The mine will be monitored quarterly.

A similarly hard-nosed attitude was voiced by Muller for the Mimosa mine, shared with Sibanye in Zimbabwe, where the government will introduce a 15% levy on concentrate exports out of the country from 2018.

The intention is to force companies to improve the value of the metals leaving the country by at least smelting them.

Implats, through its 87% held subsidiary Zimplats, had conducted a study into building a smelter and the financial consequences of the levy, and Mimosa would be closed if either decision was forced on the mine, Muller said.
Across Africa, students arrive on campuses full of hope that a university degree will improve their lives. The reality is far less certain.

In 2014, a British Council study estimated Nigerias graduate unemployment at 23.1%. In Kenya, it takes an average of five years for a graduate to find a job. Yet business leaders frequently say there are jobs  just a lack of skilled talent to do them. How can this be?

There are two commonly cited explanations. The first is that financial, human capital and infrastructure constraints have a negative impact on the range and quality of skills students graduate with. The second is the disconnect between what universities teach and the skills needed in the market.

However, another more fundamental explanation has to do with how students are educated, irrespective of what they study or the resource constraints they face. How students learn matters to employers because it shapes how they think and what they do at work.

A growing number of employers are no longer looking for graduates with the most impressive degree certificates. In fact, trailblazers like Ernst & Young have removed degree classifications from their entry requirements because they do not believe that academic success is always a sign of professional success.

A new kind of graduate

Employers are now looking for graduates who can think for themselves, integrate into fast-paced work environments, learn new ways of working and develop creative solutions to real problems. These abilities depend more on how they were taught than what they learned.

We are at a unique moment in the history of education. Information was once scarce but is now everywhere. In the last 15 years, we have also made a giant leap forward in our understanding of how the brain works and how people learn. These developments have radically altered the way we think about higher education.

In the traditional university model, learning meant access to information and knowledge, education resources and teaching expertise. Today, technology has made it easier for anyone to get information, knowledge and learning resources.

The advantage retained by the traditional university is in producing and organising knowledge. But academic researchers form a very small percentage of the knowledge workers needed in the information age.

Time to revisit old models

Universities need to rethink their approach to learning if they are to produce people with the critical thinking, leadership, collaboration and problem solving skills needed for modern life.

Learning in many African universities still happens in large lecture halls and rewards the ability to remember and repeat information. Researchers such as Nobel Prize winning physicist Carl Wieman have shown that this is one of the least effective ways of learning.

Effective learning takes three things. First, students must be able to reflect on what they are learning. Reflection helps students assess what they know and what they dont. It also helps them to integrate new ideas and concepts into their body of knowledge. When students reflect, they strengthen the neural pathways in their brain, and build new pathways that link information that was previously not associated. These links enable critical thinking.

Second, true learning happens when students stop being passive recipients of information and become active experimenters. When students take an active part, they take responsibility for the results and ensure that learning is relevant to them. They develop habits that help them learn later in life, such as self-regulation, motivation and curiosity.

Third, learning happens when students apply new concepts or skills. This is the most natural test for a students comprehension of what they are studying. Doing something, receiving feedback about it, refining the approach and then doing it again also builds neural pathways for retrieval and association.

Universities are the planning stage for a societys aspirations. African universities must begin to produce employable leaders who will meet the challenges that are hindering the continents progress. To produce graduates with the appropriate skills and ways of thinking, they will have to change the way they see, design and assess learning.
In a month-long partnership with Citi Bike which will see South Africa's unique art and culture taking to the streets of New York City, South African Tourism's US office is taking an innovative approach to grow the SA's arts, culture, and heritage offering by encouraging New Yorkers and visitors to the city to travel to South Africa.

Bringing a taste of SA to NYC

The partnership, in conjunction with South Africas national airline South African Airways (SAA), will include thirty South Africa branded Citi Bike docking stations across the city showcasing the variety of safari, adventure, and cultural experiences holidaymakers can have in South Africa, while the piece de resistance will be an original art mural dedicated to world-renowned South African artist, Esther Mahlangu.

Esther Mahlangu cuts the ribbon to officially open the mural to the public

Speaking from the sidelines of the official mural ribbon-cutting ceremony in which Esther Mahlangu was present, Bangu Masisi, President of South African Tourisms Americas Hub had this to say: Were excited to collaborate with Citi Bike this summer to bring a taste and lively sights of South Africas arts and culture to the streets of NYC. That this mural is located in New York City is a befitting tribute to one of South Africas most revered matriarchs of our arts and culture  Esther Mahlangu. Through this immersive partnership, we hope to further inspire todays discerning world traveller to discover South Africa and raise awareness for its variety of experiences - from the world-class safari and outdoor adventures to art, culture and beyond, says Masisi.

The mural paying homage to Esther Mahlangu is located on Franklin Street and West Broadway Citi Bike station in Tribeca. It was created by Imani Shanklin Roberts, the up-and-coming New York-based visual artist - whose works feature a strong Afrocentric perspective on identity.

Imani Shanklin Roberts and Esther Mahlangu

We are proud to be associated with and show support for young up and coming artists who lend their talent to showcasing our national assets. Esther Mahlangu is renowned the world over for her unique, colorful and geometric paintings which have inspired international brands and artists of many backgrounds across the globe. Her work has also done an amazing job of showcasing our cultures and will provide New Yorkers this summer with a sight of South Africas vibrant Ndebele culture, says Masisi.

We're so proud we could help make this amazing work of public art happen w/ @SouthAfrica & @flySAA_US https://t.co/bWLHy6NM1A pic.twitter.com/nAjuzrdRkf  Citi Bike (@CitiBikeNYC) September 17, 2017

Growth in tourist arrivals from US

Tourist arrivals to South Africa from the United States were at an all-time high in 2016, with more than 345,000 Americans visiting the country to enjoy its authentic travel experiences. In the first half of 2017 (January to June), 179,002 Americans visited the country, marking an increase of 9,6 percent from the same period last year. A consistent marketing presence combined with the ongoing and reliable support from South African Airways who offer daily non-stop flights from New York to South Africa are two of the key factors attributed to this growth.

Partnerships and collaboration with all stakeholders who are in tourism or related to the sector, are integral to the work we do and to ensure a broad reach of our mandate. This is just as important as finding innovative and new ways of heightening awareness around South Africa that tantalises consumers to want to know more and visit, says Masisi.

South Africa-themed block party

On 16 September, Citi Bike and South African Tourism co-hosted a South Africa-themed block party adjacent to the art installation, where riders were able to take a rest from their blue bikes to enjoy South African food like Boerewors Rolls - South Africas answer to gourmet Hot Dogs. The party included a pop-up food truck, face painting, and music. Travel ambassadors were also on site to share information about the South African vacation package.

Citi Bike members can also access a special vacation package created by South African Airways Vacations. The package will allow travellers to experience the culture of Johannesburg and historic Soweto by bicycle, followed by two nights on safari at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park.
In travel, the term 'open skies' mean far more than a torrential downpour. In Africa, it means the creation of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of revenue for the continent. It means making travel on the continent more affordable, business growth and increasing opportunities for innovation.

In short, more business travel across Africa means a stronger Africa.

Weve been talking about open skies since 1999 when 44 African nations vowed to fully liberalise air transport in the Yamoussoukro Declaration (YD). The target was set for 2002. Fifteen years on, open skies have yet to become a reality on the continent.

As we celebrate Tourism Month and recognise the impact that travel and tourism have on the global economy, theres an opportunity for us once again to acknowledge what achieving open skies in Africa would mean for the business community and business travel in general.

What achieving open skies in Africa would mean for business

A London businessman thinks nothing of boarding a flight to Stockholm. Like a Swedish sandwich cake, he has a smorgasbord of flights from which to choose  different times of day, different airlines and tonnes of different airfares.

His South African counterpart travelling from Johannesburg to Lusaka, not so much. To travel the same distance, the South African has only five direct flights a day on one carrier. If he wants to get to Lubumbashi, a little further north, he has the option of only six direct flights a week. And if we wanted to fly from Lubumbashi to Nairobi, try three times a week. Miss your flight and you can see youre going to be cooling your heels for quite some time before you can catch the next flight out.

It is also more expensive per kilometre to fly within Africa than it is to fly overseas from South Africa. According to Corporate Traveller statistics, a return trip from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Gaborone in Botswana costs as much as R4,41 per kilometre, to Maputo as much as R3,40 and Lusaka R2,21. Whereas a flight from Johannesburg to Perth, Australia, would cost only R0,88 per kilometre, Paris only R0,61 and New York R0,52. The costs to fly within Africa are significantly higher than flying overseas.

For business travel to make the contribution it could make to Africas economy, business travellers are going to need open skies to make it a reality. A report released a few years ago by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said if Africa eventually implemented open skies, airfares would fall between 25% and 37%.

In addition to the fare savings, business travellers would benefit from greater connectivity, no longer needing to travel back to a hub like Nairobi or Johannesburg to get between two African destinations. This would mean time savings for travellers and much more convenience.

Improving air access will mean that companies can access new markets due to new destinations, better flight connections, and higher frequencies offered. Better air connections would mean business would have access to more markets globally and with that more potential customers to sell their services and products.

What's stopping Africa?

So, whats stopping countries from implementing open skies on the continent when the benefits to the continents economy are clear?

The fear among governments is that by liberalising their skies, they will harm the profitability and viability of existing carriers, many of which are government owned. Of course, this is very possible. As new competitors enter the market, these national carriers would no doubt lose market share  no longer the only game in town. But with liberalisation, these national carriers would also enjoy growth in traffic volumes as they expand into new markets and the pool of travellers grows. And surely, the benefits of increased employment opportunities, economic development and better investment conditions outweigh any concerns that governments would have around the impact on their national carriers?

The exponential growth of travel into and within Africa

Weve seen in two separate reports recently  Euromonitor and ForwardKeys  that international travel into Africa is growing exponentially due to improved air connectivity to the continent, with Kenya and South Africa largely leading the charge.

ForwardKeys said in its report earlier this year that African airports are seeing double-digit growth in flight arrivals for the first half of 2017. This growth is mostly international traffic, not domestic. The biggest growth into Africa is from the East, followed by the Americas, although the share of arrivals from Europe remains the greatest (46% of all air arrivals into Africa).

Intra-African air travel is also growing, though it is a much smaller portion of arrivals. It is disappointing that the demand from African travellers and investment in airlines within Africa is less than that in countries from outside the continent.

As a frequent business traveller, I cannot wait for the day when it is easier and as convenient to travel between two African destinations than it is in other parts of the world.

Get cracking

Not implementing open skies in Africa means an opportunity lost for better business travel and in turn job creation and economic growth. As encouraging as the growth is that were seeing, it could be a great deal faster and more beneficial to travellers and economies if we would park our fears at the door in Africa and get cracking on implementing YD so we can build each others economies up instead of waiting for growth from other continents.

Lets not make it another 15 years.
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senzeni Zokwana on Sunday met various leaders from the Western Cape's fishing communities. The meeting was held in response to a memorandum handed over last Monday to the Fisheries Branch in Cape Town, according to a statement from the ministry. One of the demands in the memorandum was to meet with Zokwana within seven days of handing over the memorandum.

Hangberg, Hout Bay has been the scene of violent protests, with fishing rights one of the main concerns of residents. Among the issues discussed were the slow progress with respect to transformation in the fisheries sector, communication between the department and the affected communities, an update on the "fish basket" allocated for small-scale fishermen and the demarcation in the nearshore, offshore and small-scale fisheries.

"The meeting agreed on peaceful and constructive dialogue and further agreed to establish working committees to address all issues raised on behalf of fishing communities. The meeting clarified issues that needed urgent attention, and issues that needed regular interaction between the department and the fishing community leaders," reads the statement.

"It was recognised by all affected that there are immediate concerns that need urgent attention."

This Monday, the fishing community will meet with the Deputy Director General of the Fisheries Branch, Siphokazi Ndudane.

"The meeting also agreed that investigations of cases wherein communities have been robbed of their fishing rights by big companies - deals like Foodcorp - must be done as a matter of urgency."

Zokwana has also committed to publishing a notification calling for nominations for the establishment of the Fisheries Transformation Council (FTC) by the end of September. This council will look comprehensively at transformation issues to ensure meaningful participation by all in our society.

News24

Read this report on News24Wire.com.
According to the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, people around the globe are losing faith that the system is working in their favour. This worldwide trust crisis has created a general climate of cynicism and fear affecting both political institutions and commercial organisations. The real estate industry is no exception and local experts say adapting is becoming essential.

When it comes to trust, the real estate industry has more obstacles to overcome than most, says Schalk van der Merwe, franchisee for the Rawson Properties Helderberg Group. Its no secret that the industry of old developed a reputation for poor service and unprofessionalism. Thats no longer the case  the establishment of the Estate Agency Affairs Board has done a huge amount to improve industry standards  but the damage done to the publics trust was severe, and were still fighting against those old stigmas.

Trust in technology

As a result, some consumers in the market to buy or sell property may be tempted to bypass agents altogether by adopting technology-only solutions. Technology remains one of the most trusted industries worldwide (76% of the general population believe technology to be trustworthy, according to Edelmans survey). The efficacy of these solutions in real estate, however, remains to be proven says Van der Merwe.

A lot of people think real estate agents will be replaced by software altogether in the next few years, he says, but if you look at the numbers, the opposite seems to be happening. More people are using real estate agents than ever before, which proves that technology alone isnt providing a good enough option.

Van der Merwes observations are supported by research conducted by San Francisco-based venture capital firm, 8VC, which found the demand for real estate agents or brokers rose from 69% in 2000 to 88% in 2016. Local statistics are less easily accessible, but anecdotes from South African agents suggest a similar trend to be happening here, says Van der Merwe.

Technology may be trusted, but it often lacks transparency and authenticity, and it does little to address the emotional side of property transactions, he says. Thats a big part of the experience and plays a huge role during negotiations, and its an area in which the human touch can really make all the difference.

So, if technology alone cant fulfil consumers real estate requirements, and the public remains dubious about the honesty of brokers, what can be done to renew peoples faith in the industry?

People and technology

I think the answer lies in the combination of people and technology, says van der Merwe. As agents, we have to put customer experience first, address the publics fears in an open and honest manner, and provide service that is relevant to todays needs. Old school techniques arent enough anymore  we need to move forward and embrace all the available tools, including technology.

This transformation is currently being driven by the EAAB in its mandate to promote the standard of conduct of estate agents having due regard to the public interest and prescribe the standard of training of estate agents. In order for the changes to be truly successful, however, Van der Merwe believes consumers will need to do their part as well.

As a consumer, your choices can either support positive change or delay it, he says. Choosing an agent based on the cheapest available option undermines the skills and abilities of properly trained and experienced agents and encourages a lower standard of service delivery. Thats not to say agents shouldnt be expected to justify their fees  they absolutely should  but choosing cheap for cheaps sake is never going to get you a better customer experience.
The refugees from the Thai-Myanmar border are not ready to return home, said Naw Elizabeth, deputy director of the Karenni Education Department, who took part in the September 13 seminar at Chiang Mai University.

We discussed the need for international donors to continue their support as the refugees continue to have basic unmet needs [like] education and health, she added.

The public event, called Syria to Myanmar: Who are Refugees? was organized by the US Embassy in Thailand and Chiang Mai University. About 100 people attended, included members of refugee and internally displaced persons assistance groups like the Border Consortium, the Karen Refugee Committee, the Karenni Education Department and the Shan Womens Action Network.

Over 100,000 refugees live in nine refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border while over 3,000 Karen IDPs remain at the Ei Tu Hta temporary shelter and over 6,000 Shan IDPs are residing in camps along the Thai-Shan border, according to refugee activists. They added that after the Myanmar government and ethnic armed organizations signed ceasefire agreements and started implementing the peace process beginning in 2011, pressure has escalated for refugees and IDPs to return to their homes. While international aid organizations, swamped with other, fresher crises, are forced to dedicate resources elsewhere, the Myanmar refugees say their needs are increasingly going unmet, while lack of livelihoods in their original villages, and in some cases the threat of landmines and fresh conflict, prevents an easy return.

The international community does not know the real situation of our refugees. Im glad to have the chance to explain how the issues occurring at the Karen refugee camps are directly related to Myanmar politics, said Saw Hay Soe Thar Ko, an education officer with the Karen Refugee Committee.

According to participants, a foreign student also discussed the ongoing crisis in Rakhine State at the seminar. Over 400,000 Muslim residents have fled over the border to Bangladesh in the past month, while 30,000 Buddhist and Hindu villagers have been internally displaced by fighting between an insurgent group and the Tatmadaw.
Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado

Email no valido Nombre requerido Recibira las informaciones mas relevantes del dia en tiempo real Que informacion desea recibir? Noticias de Ultima hora Boletin Cierre de Mercado Boletin analisis tecnico Boletin Fundsnews Debe seleccionar un tipo de boletin Acepto la Politica de privacidad Debe aceptar la politica de privacidad Responsable EMPRESAS DEL GRUPO WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Finalidad La remision de informacion, novedades y promociones Establecimiento o mantenimiento de Relaciones Comerciales. Legitimacion Consentimiento del interesado. Interes legitimo en el desarrollo de la relacion comercial Destinatario Empresas del Grupo WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Derechos Acceso, rectificacion, supresion, limitacion, oposicion y portabilidad Informacion adicional Politica de Privacidad de nuestra pagina Web + INFORMACION
iStock/Thinkstock(BATON ROUGE, La.) -- Authorities in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, are investigating whether two related shootings of black men in one week were racially motivated.

A homeless man, Bruce Coefield, was killed on Tuesday and two days later Donald Smart was gunned down on his way to work just five miles away near Louisiana State University.

Authorities said they found matching shell casings at both crime scenes and in both cases, the shooter got out of his car and fired the victims multiple times.

Police have detained Kenneth Gleason for questioning in the case, but the 23-year-old white man was booked on drug charges. Officials have stressed they are also looking into other motives.

"It's disheartening to know that that's happening in Baton Rouge, but we're pushing forward with all our investigations, the community has been forthcoming with assisting us," Baton Rouge Police Sergeant L'Jean McKneely said.



ABC Breaking News | Latest News Videos

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Business Botswana, the advocacy group for private business will soon be looking for a new boss after the current CEO, Dr Racious Moatshe ditched them for Local Enterprise Authority for the same post, BG Business understands.

He has been at the organisation for hardly a year. Chairman for LEA board of directors, Batlhatswi Tsayang has confirmed the latest appointment for the agency which is tasked with promoting entrepreneurship and driving SMME development in the country. His appointment comes after the departure of Dr Tebogo Matome who has been with the organisation for more than ten years. Moatshe has been given an initial contract of 5 years and will report for duty at the Fairgrounds-based organisation next month (October 2017). LEA has two deputy CEO, Cosmos Moapare and Masego Gwaila-Madanika. BG Business understands that some of the organisations executive management team members applied, but Moatshe stood above the rest. We believe he is the best person to take LEA forward, said a confident Tsayang on Wednesday afternoon.

The appointment of Moatshe is being made two months after Permanent Secretary in the trade, investment and industry ministry, Peggy Serame announced that government is considering merging some of the ministrys parastatals, which LEA is part of. LEA, which was established after the passing of Small Business Act of 2004 is likely to close and merge with one of the parastatals, said a source within the trade ministry. Moatshe is leaving Business Botswana ahead of its Annual General Meeting in the coming weeks. He could not be reached for comment this Wednesday.




Okavango Diamond Company (ODC), the rough diamond seller has appointed Marcus Ter Haar as its new Managing Director. He was previously the companys deputy Managing Director.

According to the state-owned company, Ter Haar has worked for De Beers, Debswana and Diamond Trading Company Botswana in senior positions under divisions such as finance, sales and corporate functions among others.

He joined the company in 2013 when it officially opened its doors selling between 10-15 percent of rough diamonds produced from Debswana, a company owned by De Beers and Botswana government.





Ter Haar is also a board member of the Diamond Empowerment Fund, Wilderness Safari and Lady Khama trusts boards.

The board of directors also wishes to acknowledge the outgoing Managing Director Toby Fears, having made a significant contribution in establishing ODC as a world class rough diamond trading company since its establishment, said a press statement.

Meanwhile, Minister responsible for minerals, Sadique Kebonang has confirmed the appointment of Frears to Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB). The latter is responsible for managing governments investments in all mineral entities in Botswana.
As a norm, I picked up a copy of the Friday newspaper last week and paged through on my way to the till. One commercial bank ran a notice for its clients to submit their KYC documentation to the nearest bank or online to have their accounts updated. I had earlier on during the year saw a social media uproar when another bank ran the same excersise. Most people were complaining about this as they saw the exercise as a needless repetition.

Some even wrote proudly on the platform that they will never bow down to this requirement, or else the bank risked a possibility of them closing accounts to keep their hard earned monies under their pillows. I wondered if most of them knew what KYC means, its implications or was the banking jargon to blame.

But what is KYC? And why will all commercial banks go to the same periodic practice. In this edition, we will look at KYC in depth; discuss its merits on the overall banking experience and as a norm the resulting impact on customer service.





KYC is simply an abbreviation for KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER. This is a basic tool across all banks that is used as a common denominator against money laundering. Like it suggests, the bank should know the type of client who is being brought on board for a new relationship either at a personal or business level. This includes the identity of the client, where they stay or operate their business, their source of funds and the anticipated account conduct.

Across all banks, this information is a requirement at account opening and the client is bound to bring all this to be assisted. I have heard some clients lamenting that such and such a bank has stringent requirements and they will prefer going to another one, but rest assured and dont be fooled, all banks have the same policy as it is a requirement by the central bank. Most commercial banks will have their policies framed to holistically incorporate alignments along customer acceptance, customer identification, and transactional surveillance and monitoring. All this combinations will enable the bank to build a risk and behavior profile for the client.

Using this profile, transactions that are out of character for the client can be easily identified and red flags activated to safeguard both the client and the banking institution. But to most clients, the biggest question is because this information is required at account opening, why should the bank then somersault and ask for it again 10 years into the relationship? The simple fact of the matter is because of business and general dynamics, some if not all of these submissions will change and hence the record held with the bank will need to be updated.

As a matter of fact, an individual will change employers, their salary will change and they will not stay in one residence for a long period of time. Even under a business relationship, directorship may change hands and the entity may move operations to new grounds. Now for record keeping and so that the bank may hold the latest and correct customer information, the call for KYC submissions is made.From time to time, banks engage on what is called periodic reviews. This is basically an insight into the account to check if the information on record is relevant and up to date. Should certain information be missing or deemed not up to date, the client will be contacted to update the information.

These periodic reviews are also necessary to validate the clients risk grading and transactional patterns and most important the validity of the information held. KYC requirements exercises are employed to capture and update such changes.

So as a client who knows my rights, am I at liberty to dismiss and refuse this call by my bank to submit these documents? I have observed that most clients will advance that the bank has such information, why should I?

But why should you not? Information held is never deemed valid until verified. Even if all the requirements have not changed you are still to summit for verification. KYC is a regulatory and legal requirement; all commercial banks will have internal controls and policy to enforce it.But can this KYC bo rder and infringe on customer service? I have always used one example to illustrate this.

One man applied for a cheque book and a card at his bank. The cheque book and card were delivered to the old postal address that was on the banks system. He came to the bank to complain about this, the bank records showed that this was the man who took offence when he was called to submit KYC documents. For the bank to always deliver good customer service, information is very important.

After all it will be a futile and demanding exercise to delight someone you do not know. So next time that KYC call comes, do not harden your heart like one famous ancient Egyptian King. Its a call for compliance, hounour it.

Phirinyane Moreri

Independent Service Consultant

The service Hawk BW
The 60 year old is the Bishop of the Potters House, a non-denominational Dallas-based church thats home to 30, 000 members, with services broadcast across the U.S. and Canada.

He was in Botswana at the invitation of Prophet Boago Ramogapi of Royal Assembly Ministries. The Monday event was well attended. When he showed up, attendants, some of whom had travelled from neighbouring countries, could not contain their emotions.

It was all joy and excitement. According to TD Jakes, his inspiration in life has been knowledge that before being a Minister of God, he was always a Pastor. As a result, he never bottled himself up as a Clergyman but also excelled as a businessman.





Im duty-bound to take care of my wife and children, and to be a good role model, he said. The famous preacher said that people should refuse to be limited. Dont let people put a period where God has put a comma. You need to discover what God has put inside of you and fulfill it to your level best, he said.

On finding purpose

According to TD Jakes, every individual owes it to himself to birth what is inside of them. He encourages people to move from their comfort zones and make their dreams a reality. His take is that people should make use of their creativity and count on their faith. My faith is my fuel and my transportation. It is not my destination, he said to the applause of the audience. He also spoke on the power of association, encouraging people to surround themselves with people who can add different value to their lives. If you surround yourself with people who do what you do they will end up competing with you. But if you surround yourself with people who are good at what you are not good at, they will complete you, he stated. He also explained that the most successful people are those that appreciate time.

Empowering women

TD Jakes said that women have different needs than men and that they need to feel secure. He encouraged people to dream big and to refuse perceptions that only limit them to the kitchen or bedroom. He told men to support their women. A blessed man is not intimidated by a smart woman, and its not good for a man to be alone, he said, adding that women can be feminine, graceful and successful at the same time.The bishop also urged young people to make use of their youth, adding that they will never have it again. Im living in the strength of my youth. I killed my giants during my youth and Im where I am because of the decisions I made during my youth, he said.
SADC this week acted swiftly by approving Lesotho governments request for the convening of a Double Troika meeting in Pretoria to help the country implement the SADC recommendations that will bring about everlasting peace in the troubled kingdom.

The regional economic blocs Double Troika plus 1 is scheduled for today (Friday) in South Africas capital, Pretoria.

The Lesotho request was prompted by the assassination of the Commander of Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) Lieutenant General, Khoantle Motsomotso on 5 September 2017 by two former soldiers who were also shot and killed during the encounter.





The brutal killing of Motsomotso led to SADC Executive Secretary, Dr Stergomena Tax leading a fact finding mission of the Tripartite - plus one (South Africa) delegation to Lesotho last week.

The delegation was composed of Angola as the Double Troika Chair, Zambia (incoming Chair) and South Africa who is the current regional economic bloc Chairman. The tripartite was accompanied by SADC security chiefs composed of both police and military personnel on September 7.

Immediately after the assassination of the Commander, Lesotho Government hatched a plan to facilitate the seating of Double Trioka in order for it to endorse the Lesotho request of the deployment of the SADC battalion in their country.

In an exclusive interview with BG News Lesego Makgothi, Lesothos Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations revealed that currently everything seems to be quiet in Lesotho, but all is not well in the paradise.

Makgothi confirmed that his Government received the SADC delegation on September 7. He said at this fact finding mission, Lesotho stated its case before the delegation by depicting the events of 5 September the day that the LDF Commander was assassinated.

As Lesotho government, we further requested SADC for military deployment in a size of a battalion to support LDF to execute its mandate diligently. Makgothi said in that delegation the Kingdom of Swaziland, which is the immediate past SADC Chair, was also represented, whilst South Africa was represented by her High Commissioner, Sello Moloto as well as its security intelligence and military attache.

After the fact finding mission, the SADC delegation visited the murder scene of the commander at the army barracks as well as paid courtesy calls on His Majesty King Letsie III, Prime Minister Tom Thabane, the coalition partners being the third coalition Government, Deputy Prime Minister Monyane Moleleki who is the leader of opposition party, Alliance of Democrats (AD).

They also visited Minister of Public Service, Chief Thesele Maseribane of the Basotho National Party (BNP) as well as Keketso Rantso Minister of Labour and Employment and leader of Reformed Congress of Lesotho (RCL).

The SADC delegation also met with stakeholders such as College of Chiefs, Christian Council of Lesotho, opposition parties and civil society as well as addressed a press conference.

Meanwhile Makgothi said that the late Commander was buried on September 14 (yesterday) in his home town Butha-Buthe where he was accorded a full military state funeral. He said that LDF hierarchy has issued a communication that they have decided not to extend same privileges to the Commanders murderers - Brigadier Bulane Sechele and Colonel Tefo Hashatsi - because they have dishonoured their commission. The two have also been under criminal investigation for the assassination of former LDF Commander Brigadier Maaparankoe Mahao Meanwhile Makgothi revealed that two high ranking LDF soldiers are in detention in connection with the death of their Commander. They are Major Ramoephane and Captain Nyakane who both are suspected of having aided the bandits who laid a trap for LDF and assassinated Gen. Motsomotso. The information that LDF has is that the number of suspects is much higher, but it appears others did not know the plan well, said Makgothi.
Botswana has a fertility clinic.

It is called Gaborone Fertility Clinic. It is a revolutionary facility with modern state-of-the-art technology to perform complex medical procedures. It also offers hitherto unheard of services such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).

The clinic opened in April this year and is located somewhere in Gaborone. It is the brainchild of pioneering scientist, Dr. Vincent Molelekwa, a reproductive medicine specialist; endoscopic surgeon, obstetrician and gynaecologist among his many caps.





The mesotherapist and beauty consultant has also worked at Princess Marina Hospital as obstetrician and gynaecologist as well as Hospital Superintendent from March 2011 to February 2014 and as Head of Department from May 2016 to March 2017, where he worked as reproductive medicine specialist and endoscopic surgeon.

He also boasts administrative capabilities as former acting Deputy Permanent Secretary for Clinical Services in the Ministry of Health from March 2013 to February 2014.

On a hot Saturday afternoon Botswana Guardian reporter sat down for a chat with the jovial unassuming intellectual who graduated with Distinction in Medical Ethics at NUI Dublin, Ireland including Honours in Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Pharmacology, Microbiology and Pathology.But no place could prepare and fine-tune him for his current calling than the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa where under the supervision of Dr. Thabo Matsaseng, Prof. Igno Siebert and Prof. Thinus Kruger, he did his Fellowship Training in reproductive medicine from February 2014 to May 2016.

As we sat down for the interview, in his Clinic, we began by asking him what In Vitro Fertilisation is.It is an assisted reproductive technology that is used to help couples that are unable to reproduce through the normal reproductive process to conceive, is the unambiguous response of a confident scientist. Initially, he says, the technology was used in cases where the female patients had damaged tubes, where fertilisation cannot happen in the fallopian tubes.Fertilisation happens in the fallopian tubes in the normal course of reproduction, so in cases where the patients had damaged tubes or blocked tubes or absent tubes, we then have to do that process in the lab, where the lab takes over the function of the tubes and then fertilisation happens there and then the baby is returned into the mothers womb.He says that the process of IVF can be understood in the context of what happens in nature because IVF aims at reproducing what actually happens in the normal process of fertilisation as it happens in the tubes.He says that in Nature what happens is that generally the brain through a gland called the Pituitary stimulates the ovary to produce eggs.

Normally about eight to eleven (11) eggs are recruited and then in the normal course of events in the first half of the menstrual cycle, one of these eight eggs is selected and then the remaining ones die away and then one egg is ovulated.

This ovulated egg is then picked up by the Fallopian tube, which he says should be understood as a hand. It is an arm and hand. It captures this egg and since it (tube) has a hole in the middle, so this egg will basically start migrating towards the Uterus.

In this segment of the tube there is a portion that is called the Ampulla. At this point it is a little bit narrow, it narrows rather quickly. The egg will spend around about 50 to 80 hours negotiating to enter into that narrow portion of the tube.

This place is where the sperm will find the egg negotiating this passage. It is the place where fertilisation will happen.

Now from this point following fertilisation the newly formed embryo, the zygote, will now start splitting into two, it is now no longer an egg, it is a new individual with a new chromosomal complement, so it splits into two, those two will grow to the original size of the egg then they break again into two. And so this process continue happening along its journey towards the Uterus. What is important is that in the fallopian tube along this passage the fallopian tube will produce a particular kind of nutrients that are required by this newly-formed zygote.The food within the fallopian tube is not the same as that in the Uterus, so it is specific. So as it divides it is fed with this food in the fallopian tube. It will reach the Uterus after three to five days. During this process it would have undergone several divisions and these cells are forming into a ball. Around that time this egg will basically have about 32 to 64 cells. At that point the inside cells die away and leave a small hole, we call it a Morula, it is a blastocyst. The egg therefore enters into the Uterus during that phase of its development called the Morula three to five days after fertilisation. Now at that point basically it buries itself into the Uterus, where it starts eating new kind of food.The process of IVF mimics this entire process. It has two phases. The initial phase is the stimulation phase. Remember the Pituitary stimulates the ovary, so here, whereas the normal stimulation produces one egg, in IVF we aim at producing between eight and 15 eggs, he said.

And during this phase the woman is injected with the same substances that are being released by the Pituitary gland in a process that usually takes 12 to 14 days.

We recruit the eggs and we grow them until they are about two centimetres, this again mimicking the normal processes. At that point we then inject them with another hormone that is again produced from the Pituitary in the normal course of events, and this matures the eggs and prepares them for ovulation. Within about 35 hours after injecting that hormone, the eggs will then start ovulating as it happens in the natural process. Because we want to harvest the eggs we then take the patient and harvest the eggs.It is at this point that the male is introduced. We also harvest the sperms from the male and then we can do one or two things. If the male sperm is normal we do conventional IVF that is the standard or traditional IVF. We take the egg put it together with the sperm. We need about 500 000 sperms per egg. Then we incubate them.Now from this point onwards IVF now happens in the lab. Remember IVF is in vitro fertilisation, in vitro means outside the body that is fertilisation happening outside the body, whereas fertilisation that happens inside the body is called in vivo fertilisation. So after harvesting thats when we now get into IVF, the fertilisations part. So we take this one egg and 500 000 sperms and incubate them. And then about 18 hours after you have put them together fertilisation happens.

Youll see evidence of fertilisation by seeing two little eyes in the egg, this would be the chromosomes coming from the mother and another package coming from the father, they start at a distance theyll come together and fuse to create a new being, the zygote.

At that point onwards you start giving them the appropriate food. Between day three and day five you can take the small embryo and put into the Uterus as normally happens in the normal process.Now if the sperm is not normal, if there is a problem in the sperm either because the sperm number is low; or the mobility or movement of the sperm is compromised or it can be there is a problem with morphology (sperms not well formed, physically retarded) in this case you do a more specialised form of IVF.

In this case you look under the microscope and select the best sperm and do fertilisation yourself that is you inject it into the egg, whereas in the natural course itd do that itself, in this case you inject it, and from that point onwards 16 hours later with this form of IVF, fertilisation is confirmed.Then further development from that point onwards is exactly the same as if you were doing conventional fertilisation, then you transfer the embryo back between three to five days into the mothers womb. That is basically IVF its as simple as that, nothing complicated! Dr. Molelekwa says the expensive part of the technology is setting up of the IVF lab, which requires very specialised equipment.It requires three labs in one to do IVF. There is the Andrology Lab or Seminology Lab, where after the male gives his sperm it is assessed; cleaned and concentrated in a process that eliminates all debris (noise that impedes fertilisation), dead and immortal sperm and concentrate to give sperm that is more mobile and without debris.Then there is the actual IVF Lab itself where you need Lamina Flow cabinets; Microscopes and Incubators which will help in the process of incubating the baby and so forth.

If in this process there are embryos remaining after some have been transferred into the womb, then these embryos need to be frozen, hence the need for Freezing Lab where the embryos that remain after the IVF cycle are frozen. This eliminates the need for repeat stimulation in the case where the IVF process is not successful. This also saves the patient money because she will just unfreeze the frozen embryo and transfer them into the mothers womb rather than start the whole process all over again.IVF also requires the right staff- the Embryologist. The scientists are extremely critical no IVF Unit can be run without them, they are highly specialised lab technicians and dont come cheap they are paid like specialist doctors.The disposables, the materials, reagents are also required for the Clinic. They are not found locally, only sourced from Europe and America, thus making the technology out of reach for ordinary folks. It is very expensive, considering that medical aids dont cover it neither does government subsidise it.Dr Molelekwa attributes his passion to rigorous training, which entails basically going back to school and being cooked in sub-speciality training in fertility medicine.

As for enabling law in Botswana, Dr. Molelekwa says like anywhere in the world where IVF was first started, there is always a vacuum.

There is no law that enables or prohibits. The law eventually catches up with the practice.

Here at home this technology would be provided for under the Public Heath Act. In some cases Surrogacy (rent a womb) may also be required for assisted reproduction (IVF).

These conditions will ultimately require a change of law, for example to redefine who a mother is. Under the current dispensation, the law recognises the mother as one who gives birth to a child, so it may require amendment to provide for commissioning parents.
EConsult Botswana managing director, Dr Keith Jefferis says efforts to diversify Botswanas exports have dismally failed amid revelations that the country has been exporting largely diamonds for the past 25 years.Dr Jefferis said the countrys exports are predominantly minerals namely diamonds with copper-nickel, gold and soda ash also contributing smaller portion of the exports.

He said about 66 percent of Botswanas exports in 2016 were diamonds and the economy is largely financed by these mineral exports. The dominant position of diamond export has not really changed over a 25 year period, he said. Dr Jefferis said unless exports are also diversified, Botswana will be highly vulnerable to the eventual decline of diamonds.

Diamond production is not going to grow very much and in fact it has reached a plateau, he said.





He however said the countrys economy is diversifying contrary to a common belief that it is not.

Dr Jefferis stated that export diversification is an area which the country has actually failed to make progress in. Its often said the diversification in Botswana has failed and I dont think that is the case. In the late 1980s, mining was contributing 53 percent of the GDP and in 2016 the GDP contribution of non mining sectors had increased dramatically and there is reasonably a diversified economy, said Dr Jefferis. About six years ago, the government launched the Economic Diversification Drive (EDD) whose major aim is to diversify the economy into sectors that will continue to grow long after minerals have run out through development of globally competitive private sector as well as diversified exports and export markets. Dr Jefferis stated that over the last 10 years, the economy is changing, and is less dependent on mining and is increasingly services driven. He however revealed that some of the services that are performing well like tourism cannot be exported.

The country still imports virtually everything to satisfy the local market resulting in the import bill standing at a whopping P73 billion in 2015.
MultiChoice Botswana (MCB) has won temporary amnesty in an urgent court application to interdict Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) from implementing its enforcement guidelines against them.

At the centre of controversy is Section 90 of the Botswana Communication Regulatory Authority Act which requires all the licensed service providers to submit their intended tariffs to BOCRA for approval.

MCB argues that it is impossible for them to provide such tariffs because they do not provide such services, instead such services are provided by MultiChoice Africa.MCB brought the matter before High Court Judge Tshepho Motswagole on an urgent basis on Wednesday morning where seasoned attorneys were lined up.





Attorney Virgil Vergeer of Collins Newman and Company assisted by Keamogetswe Sefakwe appeared for BOCRA. MCB was represented by Advocate Stephen Vivian appearing with instructing Attorney Sipho Ziga of Armstrongs Attorneys. The two were accompanied by Attorneys Wendy Rosenberg and Samantha Sinden of Werksmans in South Africa.

BOCRAs argument is that as a licensed service provider, MCB is bound by the terms of the license and the Act which require them to submit the tariffs for approval. At Wednesdays hearing the court only dealt with the issue of urgency which was decided in favour of MCB meaning the hearing of the application will be expedited with argument set for 20th October 2017.

BOCRA attorney argued that MCB failed to demonstrate that the matter is urgent as they have known about the terms of the licence since 29 June 2017, but did nothing to challenge it in court.

While MCB attorney, Advocate Vivian argued that the matter was urgent because BOCRA had since given them up to 17 October 2017 to have complied failing which BOCRA would implement its enforcement guideline.BOCRA is required to have filed its affidavit on September 29, 2017 while MCB will file its own on October 10, with heads of arguments set for filing on October 17.

Should the court grant the interdict MCB will then pursue its review application against the decision of BOCRA relating to the implementation of license conditions, alternatively the conditions as required by section 90 of the Communication Regulatory Act. Court records show that both parties have been exchanging letters but never got to agree with each other as BOCRA wanted MCB to comply with the license in its entirety notwithstanding that MCB has instructed its attorneys of record to institute court proceedings applying for declaratory relief as to proper interpretation of Clause 13 of the licence, and to the extent necessary, to review and set aside the Authoritys decision to include terms in the licence.

MCB argues that they cannot comply with this clause because their role is to provide subscription management services for subscribers to the DStv service Botswana. These services include subscription fee collection, marketing and sales, technical and installation support and the operation of a national call centre.MCB does not provide a broadcast service, and does not have any control or input over the content channels which are included in DStv service.What prompted MCB to act was a letter dated 5th September written by BOCRA to MCBs then general manager Billy Sekgororoane informing the latter of BOCRAs mandate to carry out tariff regulations in terms of Section 90.

MCB wrote back through their attorneys on 29 August requesting BOCRA to provide them with a written undertaking not to take steps against compliance of clause 13 of the MCB licence. But, BOCRA could not budge maintaining that their position as indicated in their letter of 18 August 2016 stands.
Botswana Government could be sitting on a ticking time bomb by not living up to its promise to pay ex- Botswana Defense Force officers their forfeited leave days and adjustment to their retirement package.

The disgruntled ex-soldiers are not happy that government and the immediate employer the BDF are playing hide and seek with their payments as they have waited for years to be paid their forfeited leave days.

What angers them is that Minister of Defence Justice and Security, Shaw Kgathi, last year told Parliament that some of them have been paid the forfeited leave days together with the in-service officers.





It is alleged that about 12 000 ex-soldiers around the country have not been paid their forfeited leave days and the files are gathering dust at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks. Some of the officers say their days accumulated to six (6) months.

There is also an issue of adjusting the retirement package for those who leave the force. Initially they were getting 30 percent of their salaries an anomaly that the BDF rectified to align with all public servants where one leaves the service and gets 75 percent of their monthly salary.

READ MORE ON THE LATEST PRINT EDITION


A file photo.

NEW DELHI (PTI): Eyeing a multi-billion dollar contract from the Indian Navy for the supply of fighter aircraft, Russian military aviation firm MiG on Sunday said it was not averse to the transfer of technology and joint development of MiG-29 K jets with Indian companies.



MiG CEO Ilya Tarasenko said his company would submit a detailed proposal to the Indian government shortly, detailing its readiness for the joint development of aircraft for the Navy to deepen its already close engagement with India.



We are considering various options for long-term and perspective cooperation, including those within the framework of the Make in India programme, Tarasenko told PTI in a written interview.



In January, the Indian Navy had kick-started the process of procuring 57 multi-role combat aircraft for its carriers by issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to leading military jet makers.



Currently, six planes are compatible for the aircraft carrier -- Rafale (Dassault, France), F-18 Super Hornet (Boeing, US), MIG-29K (Russia), F-35B and F-35C (Lockheed Martin, US) and Gripen (Saab, Sweden). While F-18, Rafale and MIG-29K are twin-engine jets, the other three have a single engine.



Tarasenko said MiG had been working with Indian defence forces for more than 50 years, delivering planes and providing service.



He said the company was eager to further strengthen its relationship with India.



Russia has been one of India's key suppliers of arms and ammunition. Then Defence Minister Arun Jaitley had visited Russia in June during which the issue of transfer of technology and joint development of high-end military platforms and weapons systems were discussed at length.



Hard-selling MiG-29K as the best option for the Indian Navy, Tarasenko said a fleet of the aircraft had operated from Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov as part of its operations in Syria recently and showed excellent results, including in striking ground targets.



He said the MiG-29K was part of the recent Malabar exercise involving the navies of India, the US and Japan and it proved its operational prowess while operating from the Indian Navy s aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya.



Tarasenko claimed MiG-29K aircraft have serious tactical and technical advantages compared to Boeing s F/A-18.



In addition, the MiG-29K aircraft were successfully tested in combat conditions as part of the Russian Navy's military squadron in the Mediterranean in 2016 and have a unique experience of real combat use, he said.



The US defence major has offered to set up a manufacturing facility in India for the production of its F/A- 18 Super Hornet aircraft, if the company gets contracts for their supply.



At present, the Navy operates 45 MIG-29K jets.



The RFI by the Indian Navy says the aircraft required by it should be day-and-night capable, all-weather, multi-role, deck-based combat aircraft which can be used for air defence, air-to-surface operations, buddy refuelling, reconnaissance etc. from IN aircraft carriers".



The Indian side has sent an RFI to companies that produce aircraft, which is one of the procedures preceding the official tender. MiG corporation has received such a request, now we are preparing our proposal, Tarasenko said.



In a major step towards defence indigenisation, the Indian government had in May unveiled a "strategic partnership" model under which select private firms would be engaged along with foreign entities to build military platforms such as fighter jets, submarines and battle tanks.




File photo of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, 98, famous for his role in the 1965 India- Pakistan war, died in army hospital in New Delhi on Saturday. Photo: PTI.

NEW DELHI (PTI): President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation on Sunday in paying tributes to Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, the hero of 1965 India-Pakistan war and one of the country's legendary fighters.



Modi drove straight to Singh's residence in the national capital on his return from a day-long visit to Gujarat, and paid his respects to Singh, the only Air Force officer to have been accorded the five-star rank.



The prime minister also wrote a message of condolence at Singh's residence and interacted with his family members.



"My tributes to the brave soldier who had a fighter's qualities of valour and courtesy. His life was dedicated to Mother India," Modi wrote in Gujarati in his message in the condolence book at Singh's residence.



Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Singh will be accorded a state funeral, and if weather permits, a flypast by military aircraft will be given to him. She said he had played a pivotal role in transforming the IAF into one of the leading air forces in the world.



Sitharaman said the state funeral will be held from 9:30 am onwards at Brar Square near Naraina in the national capital. All three service chiefs and many top functionaries of the government are expected to attend the funeral.



Earlier President Ram Nath Kovind, who is also the supreme commander of the armed forces, visited Singh's 7, Kautilya Marg residence.



The three service chiefs --Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, Naval chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat -- as well as Minister of State Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Puri were also present.



Among other dignitaries who were seen streaming in were Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, MoS for External Affairs and former Army chief V K Singh, former defence minister A K Antony and Congress MP Karan Singh.



Former Indian Air Force (IAF) chiefs S P Tyagi, N C Suri and Anil Y Tipnis as also several decorated officers who served under Arjan Singh during the 1965 war were present.



Army Chief General Bipin Rawat described the five-star ranking officer as "a legend, an icon, a pilot-chief who led from the front and a philanthropist to the core".



He recalled Singh's immense contribution as the Air Chief during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the first major air battle of the IAF after independence.



"It was to his credit that despite initial setbacks, we were able to overcome and overwhelm the enemy and spoil their design to annex Jammu and Kashmir," Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa told reporters.



Arjan Singh's daughter, Asha Singh, and other members of the family, including his niece and actor Mandira Bedi, were present at the officer's residence, where his mortal remains lay in state. His son Arvind Singh is expected to arrive later this evening from Arizona, US.



The tricolour will fly at half mast at all government buildings in the national capital on Monday in the honour of the military legend.



The IAF patriarch will be given a state funeral at 9.30 am tomorrow at Brar Square, Sitharaman told reporters.



The gun carriage with mortal remains of Singh will leave his residence at 8.30 am.



Arjan Singh's family has also planned a ritual for the funeral.



An icon of India's military history, 98-year-old Singh breathed his last at an Army hospital here on Saturday.


After 63 sold out shows in the U.S. and Canada in 2017, Roger Waters has announced the first of next year's concerts in Europe. Just revealed are 5 shows in Germany and 1 show in Austria in the early summer of 2018. The 2018 European Us + Them tour will visit Portugal through Russia with shows in 21 other countries.

UPDATE: Here's the full list of countries that the tour will visit: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK. Watch out for full details of cities and dates following soon.

Here's the dates announced so far:

Dedicated pages for each show on the tour are now live, joining the dates already shown in the 2018 Roger Waters tour area. As the rest of the European tour is announced, a page for every concert will be in place: the place to find out information on each show, and to see, once the concert has taken place, pictures, video and commentary.
Update 10.23am: Following aviation minister Lord Martin Callanans announcement that all customers should expect a full refund, Chris Riley, Managing Director at www.myvouchercodes.co.uk has provided advice on the best way for consumers to claim compensation.

We understand that hundreds of holidaymakers will be left disappointed and frustrated by Ryanairs flight cancellations, however aviation minister Lord Martin Callanan has announced that customers should expect a full refund," he said.

To ensure you receive the full compensation, we suggest that consumers affected by these flight cancellations should apply for a refund via the Ryanair website rather than through a flight claims as these tend to take a percentage of the compensation awarded.

Earlier:Ryanair are issuing their next set of cancellations today while furious passengers demand greater clarity about what's flying and what's not.

London Stansted is expected to be the worst hit airport, with at least a dozen flights to and from Dublin affected.

The airline is cancelling 50 to 60 flights per day over the next six weeks due to scheduled leave for pilots.

Ongoing problems around staff recruitment and retention are being blamed for the unprecedented cancellations.

It is reported that Ryanair is losing staff to rival airline Norwegian Air who are holding recruitment days for pilots to operate out of its new Dublin base.

It is understood the majority of passengers will be offered a refund or seats on a later flight.

To see if your flight is cancelled, you can check here.
More than 200 supporters have signed a petition calling for Northern Ireland to be given "honorary" European Union membership while remaining part of the UK.

Former European Commission head in Belfast Jane Morrice has said the country could become a European place of global peace-building.

Her petition called on Prime Minister Theresa May, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to grant the special status.

It has received 244 signatures of support.

The online campaign said: "The aim is to protect peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland and on the island of Ireland; to ensure respect for the European rights and fundamental freedoms of Northern Ireland citizens; to guarantee freedom of movement between the UK and Ireland and to safeguard the spirit of good relations and cooperation between the UK, Ireland and the EU enshrined in the Good Friday Belfast Agreement."

Sinn Fein and the SDLP are campaigning for Northern Ireland to be given special status within the EU following Brexit.

The Democratic Unionists supported Leave in the referendum.

Honorary EU association would retain the status of Northern Ireland as part of the EU, part of the UK and part of the British/Irish and North/South Council in keeping with the Good Friday Belfast Agreement, the petition said.

It would respect the will of the people of Northern Ireland who voted to stay in the EU, keep the Irish border open and recognise the right of those who wish to retain EU citizenship as British and/or Irish citizens, it added.

"Associate EU membership should permit Northern Ireland to stay in the customs union, the single market and the common travel area and find ways to allow the freedom of movement of people, goods, capital and services East/West and North/South of the British Isles.

"It should guarantee support for farmers, fisheries, research, student exchange and other economic and social imperatives and ensure and extend funding for cross-community, cross border and global Peace outreach programmes."

Ms Morrice is a former member of the Women's Coalition, which participated in the peace talks which led to the 1998 peace accord.

AP
Update 5pm: Ibrahim Halawa's soolicitor today paid tribute to the "hard work and dedication" of this family during their struggle to have him released from detention in Egypt.

The 21-year-old from Firhouse in Dublin was found innocent in a court in Cairo of all charges against him after spending jail for more than four years in prison.

Halawa suffered "horrific human rights abuses and inhuman prison conditions" while in detention in Egypt, his legal team also stated.

Ibrahims international legal team expresses great relief at this news and continues to stand in solidarity with Ibrahim and his family," a statement from the firm read.

"During his time in detention in various prison facilities in Egypt, Ibrahim witnessed and was subjected to horrific human rights abuses and inhuman prison conditions, including violent physical abuse, overcrowding, humiliation and appalling lack of sanitation".

Joyous scenes outside the home of the Halawa family pic.twitter.com/8Zlnz8vT5J  Helen Donohue (@Donohuereports) September 18, 2017

Solicitor to Ibrahim Halawa, Darragh Mackin of KRW Law said:"Today marks the end to what has been a turbulent four years.

"Throughout that time Ibrahim Halawa and his family have tirelessly fought for his freedom  and todays verdict is a true testament to their hard work and dedication.

"Ibrahim and his family have been vindicated by todays verdict.

"We now look forward to seeing Ibrahim return home to his family in the coming days, and will be

actively engaging with the Irish and Egyptian Government to ensure that happens without any

further delay.

Update 2.03pm: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the Government will facilitate Ibrahim's return at the earliest opportunity.

Ibrahim Halawa, moments after his acquittal. He jumped with joy, hugged fellow prisoners and had tears in his eyes. pic.twitter.com/P40IjYQLHK  Declan Walsh (@declanwalsh) September 18, 2017

I have just received news from our Embassy in Cairo that the Egyptian courts have delivered an acquittal in the case of Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa, and that Ibrahims sisters Somaia, Fatima and Omaima have similarly been acquitted," he said.

I wholeheartedly welcome this conclusion to what has been an extraordinarily protracted case.

Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity.

I want to acknowledge the consular and diplomatic work undertaken on Ibrahims behalf by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Irish Embassy in Cairo throughout this lengthy process. Following todays verdict, they will continue to assist Ibrahim and his family to ensure he gets home as soon as possible.

Statement by President Michael D. Higgins welcoming the acquittal of Ibrahim Halawa: https://t.co/8Gd5qfTfZu  President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) September 18, 2017

Earlier:Irishman Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted on all charges according to reports from Cairo.

The 21-year-old from Firhouse in Dublin has been in an Egyptian jail for four years.

Dublin South West TD and Independent Minister Katherine Zappone has said he will return home to Ireland.

An overwhelmed Nosayba Halawa, sister of Ibrahim Halawa, speaks to News at 1 after her brother Ibrahim was acquitted of all charges pic.twitter.com/fKpQ5OtQKt  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

Minister Zappone, who is Ibrahims local TD, has also confirmed that she has asked Government colleagues to ensure that every support is put in place to help Ibrahim re-start his life following his ordeal.

Speaking following the acquittal Minister Zappone said: My thoughts, prayers and solidarity are with Ibrahim and his family, his dedicated legal team and everyone who I worked and campaigned with to bring us to this moment.

"It is important that all who campaigned over the past four-years continue to co-operate to ensure Ibrahims return is arranged as soon as possible.

"I remain in close contact with Ibrahims sister Somaia, his lawyers and Government colleagues to ensure that Ibrahims needs are immediately assessed and any supports required put in place.

"Assessing his health, psychological and social needs must be the priority and supports offered.

"The Halawa family, in particular sisters Somaia and Fatima, are among the most inspiring people I have campaigned side by side with. At vigils, demonstrations and meetings within Government Buildings, their patience, persistence and resilience has been an inspiration, as is their love for their brother.

"Lawyers Katie OByrne, Caoilfhionn Gallagher of Doughty Street Chambers as well as Darragh Mackin of KRW Law provided invaluable support and information throughout the ordeal and their persistence has also been crucial in keeping the campaign in the public eye.

"It is important also to acknowledge the dedication and work of the Department of Foreign Affairs on what has been one of the most difficult consular cases in years.

"As an Independent Minister and Dublin South West TD I am committed to see this case through to its conclusion, Ibrahims homecoming. I will work with the family, lawyers and politicians from all sides including those who travelled to Cairo as part of the Oireachtas delegation.
Update 7.07pm: Ryanair has this evening published a list of flights that are scheduled to be cancelled in the coming weeks.

Mr O'Leary, the airline's chief executive, told a press conference in Dublin today: "Clearly there's a large reputational impact for which again I apologise. We will try to do better in future.

Update 5.58pm: Ryanair boss Micheal OLeary said he has no intention of resigning for the flight cancellations 'mess' which has left many passengers stranded.

Asked if he believed he should lose his job, Mr O'Leary replied: "No, I don't think my head should roll, I need to stay here and fix this."

Mr O'Leary said customers whose flights have been cancelled will receive an email by this evening.

Michael OLeary says all customers on affected Ryanair flights will receive email today offering an alternative flight or a full refund pic.twitter.com/BMeAz2f5N6  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

This will inform them what flights they can transfer to, which will be "hopefully on the same or at worse the next day".

Under EU law, passengers given less than 14 days notice of a flight cancellation are entitled to claim compensation worth up to 250 depending on the timing of alternative flights and if the issue was not beyond the responsibility of the airline, such as extreme weather.

Mr O'Leary said: "If they're not satisfied with the alternative flights offered they can have a full refund and they will all be entitled to their EU261 compensation entitlements.

"We will not be trying to claim exceptional circumstances.

"This is our mess-up. When we make a mess in Ryanair, we come out with our hands up, we try to explain why we made the mess, and we will pay compensation to those passengers who are entitled to compensation, which will be those flights that are cancelled over the next two weeks."

Mr O'Leary insisted the airline is "not short of pilots" as he explained the reason behind the cancellations.

Ryanair chief Michael OLeary says blame for flight cancellations lies with company following changes to how it manages leave pic.twitter.com/EuDROTvkJE  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

He said: "What we have messed up is the allocation of holidays and trying to over-allocate holiday during September and October, while we're still running most of the summer schedule, and taking flight delays because of principally air traffic control and weather disruptions."

Changes imposed by Irish regulators, in line with European law, forced Ryanair to conform staff holidays with the calendar year from January, requiring it to allocate that leave before the end of the year.

Update 4.37pm: Ryanair boss Michael OLeary has ruled out paying for flights on rival airlines for customers affected by upcoming cancellations.

"We will not be paying for flights on other airlines, no," he said.

"It's not part of the EU261 entitlements."

Michael OLeary says Ryanair will not be paying for flights on other airlines for customers affected by flight cancellations pic.twitter.com/pzqMT42N0e  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

He added that he will "fully honour all of the EU261 entitlements that our passengers are entitled to, without quibble or question"

Have we messed this up? Yes we have, for that I sincerely apologise



Ryanair chief apologises for confusion over flight cancellations pic.twitter.com/rAdHJWV9mk  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

Update 4.29pm: Ryanair boss Michael OLeary has said that the airline will not be claiming "exceptional circumstances" to avoid paying compensation to customers affected by upcoming flight cancellations.

"This is our mess-up," he said.

Update 4.17pm: Ryanair boss Michael OLeary has said that a list of cancellations has been finalised for the next "six-ish" weeks to the end of October.

He said that cancellations will occur at nine of the larger Ryanair bases including Dublin, Stansted, Milan and Rome.

Michael OLeary says a list of Ryanair cancellations has been finalised to the end of October which will focus on busier airports and routes pic.twitter.com/ZcKjjDxMJ4  RTE News (@rtenews) September 18, 2017

He added: "In total, there will be 50 flights cancelled on Mondays, there will be 44 cancelled on Tuesdays, 42 cancelled on Wednesdays, 48 on Thursdays, 52 on Fridays, 48 on Saturdays, 52 on Sundays, which is an average of 48 flight cancellations a day."

In a statement, the Ryanair boss said: "Ryanairs Michael OLeary said: While over 98% of our customers will not be affected by these cancellations over the next six weeks, we apologise unreservedly to those customers whose travel will be disrupted, and assure them that we have done our utmost to try to ensure that we can re-accommodate most of them on alternative flights on the same or next day.

Ryanair is not short of pilots  we were able to fully crew our peak summer schedule in June, July and August  but we have messed up the allocation of annual leave to pilots in Sept and Oct because we are trying to allocate a full years leave into a nine-month period from April to December.

This issue will not recur in 2018 as Ryanair goes back onto a 12-month calendar leave year from 1st Jan to 31st December 2018.

This is a mess of our own making. I apologise sincerely to all our customers for any worry or concern this has caused them over the past weekend.

We have only taken this decision to cancel this small proportion of our 2,500 daily flights so that we can provide extra standby cover and protect the punctuality of the 98% of flights that will be unaffected by these cancellations.

Update 2.20pm: Ryanair's chief executive has admitted the airline is in "a mess" over its plans to cancel thousands of flights over the next six weeks.

"We sincerely apologise and we are working very hard at the moment to make sure we finalise the list of flight cancellations which will effect less than 2% of our customers and we will look after those customers who have been distrupted," he said.

Here is the list of flights cancelled.

"It is clearly a mess" admits Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary as 50 flights a day will have to be cancelled over the next six weeks pic.twitter.com/HpwwDKpEee  Sky News (@SkyNews) September 18, 2017

Earlier:Ireland's aviation regulator has said Ryanair must offer alternative flights or a full refund if it cancels a service.

The budget airline is under pressure to publish a full list of the flights it plans to cancel over the next six weeks as customers have become increasingly angry.

It said it was shelving up to 50 flights daily after it "messed up" the planning of pilot holidays.

Ireland's Commission for Aviation Regulation said: "If Ryanair cancels a flight, it must offer you the choice of an alternative flight at the earliest opportunity or at a later date of your choice subject to the availability of seats or a full refund of the ticket."

The commission, which has responsibility for scheduling at Irish airports, is due to meet to discuss the situation.

It has said it expects Ryanair to pay out compensation in some cases.

Over the weekend the airline published a list of affected flights up to Wednesday.

Which? consumers' group said: "It's also essential that Ryanair release a full list of flights that will be affected so that passengers have as much time as possible to make alternate arrangements."

It was reported that recruitment problems were affecting the airline and it had lost a significant number of pilots to low cost rival Norwegian Air, something denied by Ryanair.

Kenny Jacobs, chief marketing officer at Ryanair, said the company was "working hard to fix" the problem, after it announced a 2% reduction in scheduled flights until the end of October as it shifts to conform with European regulations surrounding staff leave.

Changes imposed by Irish regulators, in line with European law, forces Ryanair to conform staff holidays with the calendar year from January, requiring it to allocate that leave before the end of the year.

Ryanair said air traffic control delays and strikes, bad weather and a backlog of annual leave to be taken by pilots and cabin crew had led to punctuality falling to below 80% over the last two weeks.

A spokesman said this figure was "unacceptable" and the company has apologised to affected customers, who it said will be offered alternative flights or refunds.

Some customers said last-minute cancellations had left them out-of-pocket due to non-refundable accommodation costs, or with no choice but to book expensive alternative flights or transport.

Others said they had been left stranded in their holiday destination and many urged Ryanair to publish a list of all flight cancellations.

The vast majority of UK cancellations affected Stansted. Some Dublin flights were also dropped.

AP
A vote at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions has gone in favour of the new public service pay agreement.

Leo Varadkar and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe thanked the Irish Congress of Trade Unions for endorsing the extension to Lansdowne Road Agreement.
A verdict is expected today in the trial of Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa.

The 21-year-old has been imprisoned in Egypt for over four years.

He was arrested along with hundreds of others after taking part in a peaceful demonstration in Cairo.

The trial process has been beset by delays and adjournments but a verdict is finally expected today.

Colm O'Gorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland has said there is no evidence to link Ibrahim to the charges made against him.

"We hope very much that there will be a final verdict today," he said.

"He must be acquitted because at no stage during this now four year process was a single piece of evidence introduced by the prosecution in the mass trial involving Ibrahim."
British overseas territories in the Caribbean face being lashed by another major hurricane as they attempt to recover from the deadly devastation unleashed by Irma.

Hurricane Maria is gathering strength as it heads towards the Lesser Antilles, prompting alerts for the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla that lie to the west.

The hurricane is currently producing winds of 85mph (140kph) which are predicted to increase as the storm follows a similar path to Irma.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is advising against all travel to the British Virgin Islands as Maria is expected to make landfall on Tuesday or Wednesday, with severe damage and coastal flooding expected.

Similar warnings against all but essential travel are in place for Montserrat and Anguilla.

Chris Austin from the Department for International Development, who is now leading the UK's response to the disaster, said the Joint Task Force is anticipating having to provide further short term relief as Maria edges closer.

He said they have already provided 75 tonnes of aid - including shelter kits, food and water - but that the 5,000 tarpaulins already distributed could be lost in the new weather front.

"We are planning for the unexpected, we are planning for the worst, we need to demonstrate our own resilience because there could be some pretty sharp backwards steps I think," Mr Austin said.

The US National Hurricane Centre said Maria was strengthening and has issued a hurricane warning for Guadeloupe, Martinique and the British overseas territory of Montserrat.

Saint Martin, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands are all under hurricane watch, the centre added.

Brigadier John Ridge, the second in command of the Joint Task Force, said the UK's military helicopters and aircraft in the region "will be kept out of harm's way" in Barbados, where there is cover to protect them.

Storm Maria is set to arrive in Barbados on Sunday evening, although he stressed that it is not clear exactly which way it will track.

"It almost does not matter whether it tracks north of here or straight through here.

"If it tracks straight through here our problems are going to be the strength of the winds, if it tracks north of here we will be on the edge of the rain," he said.

"Even with an hour of rain here at the moment, it runs straight off as there is no vegetation.

"Normally it would get absorbed by the leaves, that's not there, and the storm drains which then divert the flow have all been blocked by the detritus that have run off the hills."

Brig Ridge said additional reserve troops will be sent to the British Virgin Islands, but defended his decision to put troops potentially in harm's way, stating it is a "risk worth taking" because it ensures "extra capacity" to deal with any immediate problems in the aftermath.

"Once the hurricane is through we can leap back into action, we have got the guys positioned in the right place so they are ready to react," he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Paul Maynard, commanding officer of 40 Commando Royal Marines, said the monitoring equipment to keep track of hurricanes is currently out of action on Tortola.

"We are relying on other overseas territories and the US to just monitor that, the threat is very real," he added.

He said the problem is that because there is so much debris on the island following the damage caused by Irma, a category three hurricane is "just going to pick all that up, spin it around and throw it like ammunition everywhere".

"It could cause potentially more casualties and fatalities than Irma did," he added.

"Of course there is the threat to my own force as well. (But) we are not going anywhere, it would be immoral and the wrong thing to do to leave these people to face another tragedy without us alongside."

He said the crisis is "far from over", adding: "The requirement for military forces to support in the delivery of aid, as first responders is still very much there."

Lt Col Maynard said the experts and people are already there ready to deal with whatever damage or problems Storm Maria may cause, and to get aid to wherever it is needed.

He revealed that 70% of Tortola's prison population is now back behind bars, and that during the potential hurricane, cross agency security forces will be put into the jail.

Brig Ridge added that he is "pretty worried" about the storm, because of the resilience of the communities already affected by Irma, and because he may end up with soldiers, marines and airmen in harm's way.

AP
Boris Johnson is preparing for crunch talks with Theresa May amid recriminations over the Brexit blueprint that left him clashing with officials and facing criticism from colleagues.

The Foreign Secretary will head to New York for a meeting of the United Nations but he is now expected to have discussions during the visit with the Prime Minister about Britain's EU exit strategy.

Mr Johnson was accused of being a "back seat driver" after releasing a 4,000-word article setting out his vision for the UK's future outside the European Union just six days before Mrs May is due to give a major speech on Brexit in Florence.

His decision to revive the widely-criticised claim that up to 350 million a week will be freed up for public spending after Britain quits the bloc left him embroiled in a messy spat with the chairman of the UK Statistics Authority chairman.

Sir David Norgrove published a letter to Mr Johnson saying he was "surprised and disappointed" the figure had been revisited and claimed it was a "clear misuse" of official figures.

Mr Johnson responded with his own letter accusing the statistics chief of a "complete misrepresentation" of his views and called on him to withdraw the criticism.

He claimed the statistics boss had privately conceded he was "more concerned by the headline" and the coverage of the controversial article and "accepted that I was not responsible for those".

But a spokesman for the chairman stood by his accusation and said the Foreign Secretary's riposte "doesn't alter his view".

Labour's Chuka Umunna, a supporter of Open Britain group campaigning for a soft Brexit, said Mr Johnson's "outright lying" had been exposed while Sir Vince Cable praised the UK Statistics Authority for having the "courage to slap Boris down".

Mr Johnson's Brexit essay said Britain should make no payments for access to the European single market after Brexit, and made no mention of the transitional period which the Prime Minister is now thought to favour.

Amber Rudd she had been "too busy" dealing with the Parsons Green bomb attack to read the opus and criticised the Foreign Secretary for releasing the piece at the time of the blast.

The Home Secretary insisted the Prime Minister is "driving the car" on Brexit and, when pressed on Mr Johnson's actions, said: "You could call it backseat driving."

Mrs May's de facto deputy Damian Green said Mr Johnson would not be sacked over his intervention and suggested "people should calm down" after a "weekend of excitement".

Meanwhile, Jacob Rees-Mogg said Mr Johnson's article was "tremendous".

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said his fellow Conservative MP had "magnificently rejected" the "depressing view" that Britain could not cope without the protection of the European Union.

AP
A former Church of England priest has been jailed for 12 years for a string of sexual offences against two boys dating back to the late 1980s.

Jonathan Graves, of Jervis Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex, is the third former priest from the Diocese of Chichester to be convicted following an investigation into concerns about several priests.

The 60-year-old was convicted of 12 sexual offences, against two boys known to him, while he was priest at St Lukes Church at Stonecross near Eastbourne.

He was sentenced at Brighton Crown Court to eight years for two offences of indecent assault on a boy aged 11 to 13 between 1987 and 1990, two offences of indecency with that boy during the same period, and two offences of cruelty against that boy during the same period.

Graves also was also sentenced to four years for three offences of indecent assault, and three of cruelty against another boy then aged between 12 and 15 between 1988 and 1992.

He was also ordered to be a registered sex offender for life and was given a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) to last until further court notice, severely restricting his access to young children.

Detective Inspector Jon Gross of Sussex Police said: "The past has caught up with Jonathan Graves.

"The evidence in this case has revealed how he used his position as a reverend to select his victims and befriend them before callously abusing them for his own sexual gratification.

"His crimes have had a lasting impact upon those he abused. The hurt caused by the sexual abuse itself has undoubtedly been compounded by the psychological scars of the abuser being a trusted and influential figure in each of the victims' lives.

"I have enormous admiration for the courage the victims have shown in coming forward to the police, and for remaining steadfast in seeing this matter through to conclusion.

"I hope these verdicts bring some form of closure to them."

A Sussex Police spokesman said: "Baroness Elizabeth Butler-Sloss looked into the case of Jonathan Graves in 2010 as part of a review for the Diocese of Chichester looking at previous concerns about several priests. The report was sent to Sussex Police in 2011.

"Following a review of all information held by the Diocese on the cases covered, the force began an investigation, Operation Perry, and Graves is the third and last of the priests to be convicted.

"The two other clergy, Robert Coles and Gordon Rideout, have already been convicted in separate trials and sentenced to terms of imprisonment."
A 30-year-old man who posed as a young Justin Bieber lookalike online to lure schoolgirls into sending him indecent webcam images has been jailed for 15 years by a UK court.

Yohann Ramchelawon used a photo of a teenage boy he grabbed from the internet to create bogus social media profiles before grooming youngsters, West Midlands Police said.

Ramchelawon, who was arrested at an address in Victoria Lane, Huddersfield, on March 6, utilised Instagram, WhatsApp, Skype and Facebook to target girls aged between 12 and 17.

Some of his victims were also coerced into performing sex acts in front of webcams after Mauritius-born Ramchelawon threatened to share the images they had provided with friends and family.

In a statement issued after Ramchelawon was sentenced at Stafford Crown Court, West Midlands Police said officers picked up the inquiry after an IP address used to message a 12-year-old Manchester girl was traced to a house in Walsall.

Hundreds of indecent images were found on his digital devices as officers uncovered victims from Coventry and Walsall in the West Midlands, plus Lanark in Scotland, Liverpool, St Ives, Shoreham-by-sea and East Ham in London.

Further examination of Ramchelawon's computer and phone revealed he had contacted girls living in New Zealand, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates and Russia.

Ramchelawon - who gave his home address as Walls Street, Halifax, when arrested - was convicted of two counts of inciting a 12-year-old girl to engage in sex acts online, eight charges of possessing indecent images of children and two of distributing the images.

Commenting on the case, Detective Constable Kerry Haywood, from West Midlands Police's public protection unit, said: "He used various aliases including Ryan Smith and 'Santiago', and claimed to be a teenager who was sending messages during school or college lessons.

"He sent poems, would call them 'baby' and tell them he loved them after chatting online for little more than a day.

"However, he quickly steered the chats to intimate subjects and persuaded them to take their clothes off - and he then used these naked images to blackmail them into sending more explicit pictures and videos.

"The enquiry started when a girl from Manchester reported to police that a boy named Ryan was asking for intimate images.

"The investigation soon snowballed and we identified many more victims and online conversations with girls in different countries.

"I'd like to thank that 12-year-old girl for breaking her silence and putting her faith in the police.

"It's helped us put a calculating sex predator behind bars and undoubtedly protected other girls for falling into his trap."
US president Donald Trump's childhood home in New York received some new occupants over the weekend - refugees.

Anti-poverty charity Oxfam rented out the property on Airbnb, allowing four people to share their stories as a way of drawing attention to the refugee crisis as the United Nations General Assembly convenes this week with Mr Trump in attendance.

The three-storey Tudor-style home in Queens that Mr Trump's father, Fred, built in 1940 can now be rented by anyone for $725 per night.

The house was auctioned off to an unidentified buyer in March for $2.14m.

Oxfam invited four refugees to talk with journalists at the property.

The Republican president's administration issued travel bans on people from six Muslim-majority countries and all refugees.

After various court challenges, the US supreme court last week allowed the restrictive policy on refugees to remain temporarily. The justices will hear arguments on the bans on October 10.

Shannon Scribner, acting director for the humanitarian department of Oxfam America, said: "We wanted to send a strong message to Trump and world leaders that they must do more to welcome refugees."

Mr Trump lived in the house on a tree-lined street of single-family dwellings until he was about four, when his family moved to another home his father had built nearby.

Eiman Ali, of Somalia and born in Yemen, poses for a portrait during an interview in one of the bedrooms

In an upstairs bedroom, Eiman Ali, 22, looked around at the dark wood floors and a copy of the book Trump: The Art Of The Deal on a nearby table and wondered about the home's previous resident.

Ms Ali said: "Knowing Donald Trump was here at the age of four makes me think about where I was at the age of four.

"We're all kids who are raised to be productive citizens, who have all these dreams and hopes."

Ms Ali was three when she arrived in the United States from Yemen, where her parents had fled when war broke out in their native Somalia.

She said she remembered Mr Trump as an entertaining character on Celebrity Apprentice, but has since changed her opinion.

She said: "To have someone so outspoken against my community become the president of the United States was very eye-opening and hurtful, because I have invested a lot in this country."

Down the hall, Ghassan al-Chahada, 41, a Syrian refugee who arrived in the United States with his wife and three children in 2012, sat in a room with bunk beds and a sign on the wall that said this was likely Mr Trump's childhood bedroom.

Ghassan al-Chahada, of Syria.

Mr al-Chahada said: "Before the conflict began in Syria we had dreams of coming to America.

"For us, it was a dream come true."

He said his life changed when Mr Trump signed the ban that barred people from Syria and five other countries from entering the United States.

"I had hopes I would get my green card and be able to visit my country," Mr al-Chahada added.

"But since Trump was elected I don't dare, I don't dare leave this country and not be able to come back."

When asked what he would say to the president, Mr al-Chahada said: "I would advise him to remember, to think about how he felt when he slept in this bedroom.

"If he can stay in tune with who he was as a child, the compassion children have and the mercy, I would say he's a great person."

AP
The US military has flown bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula in drills with South Korean and Japanese warplanes, three days after North Korea fired a missile over Japan.

The North launched its latest missile as it protested against tough new UN sanctions over its sixth nuclear test on September 3.

Monday's fly-overs involved two B-1Bs and four F-35Bs from the US military as well as four F-15K fighter jets from South Korea, according to South Korean and US defence chiefs.

The US and South Korean planes flew across the Korean Peninsula and practised attacks by launching live weapons at a firing range in South Korea, the US Pacific Command said.

The US warplanes also conducted formation training with Japanese fighter jets over waters near the southern island of Kyushu, according to the Pacific Command.

The United States often sends powerful military aircraft in a show of force in times of heightened animosities with North Korea.

Since Kim Jong Un took power in North Korea in late 2011, his nation has tested weapons at a torrid pace.

The country flight-tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles in July. Its nuclear test in September was its most powerful to date.

Many experts say it is only a matter of time until Kim achieves his stated objective of possessing reliable nuclear-tipped missiles capable of striking anywhere in the mainland US.

State media quoted Mr Kim as saying that North Korea's final goal "is to establish the equilibrium of real force with the US and make the US rulers dare not talk about military option" for the North.

Alarmed by North Korea's advancing weapons programmes, many conservatives in South Korea have called for the reintroduction of US tactical nuclear weapons in the South.

But the liberal-leaning government of President Moon Jae-in said it has no intention of requesting that the US bring back such weapons.

South Korean defence minister Song Young-moo told MPs that it is "not proper" to reintroduce US nuclear weapons.

He previously said the idea should be "deeply considered" by the allies, inflaming already-heated debate on the issue.

AP
Detectives investigating an explosion on a London Underground train which sent passengers and those in the vicinity fleeing in fear have made two arrests.

Here is what we know about the incident so far:

:: An 18-year-old is in police custody having been detained on suspicion of being a terrorist by Kent Police in Dover, the arrest was described as "significant" by Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu.

:: A second man, aged 21, reported to be from Syria, was arrested in Hounslow on Saturday night, while his home in Stanwell, Surrey was searched by police on Sunday.

:: Both men are believed to have been fostered by Penelope and Ronald Jones, aged 71 and 88 respectively, who previously received MBEs for services to children and families.

:: Residents in the Cavendish Road area of Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, were told to leave their homes as armed police searched the couple's home.

:: Scotland Yard said it has spoken to more than 100 witnesses, while 180 images and videos have been sent to detectives by members of the public.

:: The national threat level has reverted back to severe, having been raised to critical in the wake of Friday's blast. It means a terror attack "highly likely".

:: Troops were dispatched to key sites across the country to free up armed police officers, with promises of "enhanced police presence" on the transport network.

:: Two victims remain in hospital, with 28 of the 30 injured having been discharged by Sunday, according to the latest update from NHS England. Police said most of those hurt were suffering from "flash burns".

:: Parsons Green station has reopened after the explosion was carried out towards the rear of a District Line train, bound for central London, at 8.20am on Friday.

:: Scotland Yard and the Prime Minister have rebuked US president Donald Trump over his claim the Parsons Green Tube bomber was "in the sights" of Scotland Yard.

:: The Islamic State (IS) terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack through its Amaq news agency, according to the US-based Site Intelligence.

AP
Mortgage brokerage Smartline Personal Mortgage Advisers has been recognised as the second best franchise in Australia at this years Topfranchise Awards.The achievement marks the ninth year in a row that Smartline has featured in these awards. This is the first time in second spot however, with the firm taking first place in the eight years prior to this.In an interview with Australian Broker, Ian Winn, CEO of Smartline, spoke on why the firm had been recognised once more this year.Smartline really is all about people both from a client perspective and a franchisee perspective. Fundamentally, our vision and mantra is to provide the best opportunities for our franchisees and our clients. Thats why we continue to do pretty well.Within the awards, the franchise came first in the marketing category.Weve had a couple of troubles with marketing over the last few years, so we were particularly happy about that result. Its certainly a reflection on the strong marketing team we now have in place and the work that theyre doing.Smartlines marketing efforts have put in place a number of consistent programs that add value to franchisees businesses, Winn said.The franchise also came out on top in the passion category which reflected well on the total business as a whole, he added.The franchisees feel that we are passionate about the business. We do everything with a lot of enthusiasm and desire for success.Finally, Smartline did well in both the lifestyle and expansion categories, Winn said.In the mortgage broking industry, you can provide quite a good work/life balance because mortgage brokers dont need to be sitting in an office all the time. They can manage their time around their clients requirements.From our perspective, we put a lot of thought into the systems we provide. We want the most efficient systems available so that franchisees spend more of their time talking to clients as opposed to doing admin work or processing.Despite not gaining the top spot this year, Winn said he was still pleased that Smartlines overall rating had improved. He noted that there were still some areas for improvement however.We just probably need to focus on those areas a little more. But were not going to try and change the world. This is certainly a good reflection on our business but I think if we continue to do what were doing now, then I suspect were going to be first or second next year.Smartline continues to dominate in the franchise space over other larger mortgage franchises because of its flexibility, Winn said.We allow people to develop their own business models to suit them at their own pace. Thats not always simple because that can possibly lead to people doing different things but I feel that just from a culture perspective, franchisees are mindful of doing the right thing. We trust them, they trust us.This means that while one franchisee has a staff of 10 people in a large office, another can just work from home.The key for us is as long as the franchisees are writing great client service, then how they manage their business is really up to them. Thats what separates us from the larger franchise systems which are a little bit rigid around the way that franchisees are allowed to operate.Smartline currently has 310 franchisees nationwide. Over the last year, the firm added around 30 new franchisees with about 10 either choosing to retire or move on  leading to a net growth of 20 franchisees across the country.
Mortgage franchise Aussie Home Loans has appointed a new general manager of distribution to head up the firms future expansion and growth.Brad Cramb will step into the role at the end of October and will be directly accountable for the firms network of more than 1,000 brokers, 215 retail stores and over 40 team members.Cramb has more than 20 years of domestic and international experience in sales, marketing, strategy, logistics and operations roles within the automotive sector.He has held a number of senior roles including managing Toyotas franchise and retail development. Most recently, he was Toyotas chief marketing officer.Cramb also spearheaded several breakthrough projects with Toyota, including building an online-to-instore customer experience as well as creating a central network services model which boosted company profit and customer experience levels.The general manager of distribution is a longstanding, critical role at Aussie, which has previously been held by James Symond and most recently, Vaughan Fowler, an Aussie spokesperson told Australian BrokerSince Vaughan became a franchisee in July  opening Aussie Cronulla with his wife  general manager of customer experience and technology, Richard Burns, has been acting as general manager of distribution. He will continue in this acting role until Cramp commences to ensure a smooth transition, they said.With Aussie being a sales and distribution business above all else, the role is absolutely critical to the firm's success and that of its franchisees and mortgage brokers, said Aussie CEO James Symond.Brad has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional growth in sales and customer enquiries. Importantly, he brings significant experience in expanding and supporting a national distribution network, developing dynamic strategies to support strong sales growth in small business and increasing market share in a highly competitive market.Crambs expertise coming from a different industry will add significant value to the leadership team by providing a unique perspective on how Aussie can enhance its service offering to both brokers and customers, the spokesperson said.After an extensive search, Symond said that Cramb was the right person to drive the firm and reach its 2020 strategy which remains to be the best home loan provider on the planet.To achieve this vision, Aussies 2020 strategy is focused on three core areas  distribution growth, product and experience  underpinned by strong core business capabilities of risk, culture and technology. Brad will assist by driving forward the Distribution Growth area of Aussies 2020 strategy which includes solidifying the role of the mobile channel and growing further Aussies strong retail presence, the spokesperson said.Cramb said he was thrilled to be joining a company as iconic as Aussie Home Loans.Aussie has an exceptional track record of strong sales performance and growth, and I am excited by the challenge to continue this momentum and lead Aussies next wave of growth along with the executive team, he said.
Under the Advanced Basel approach, banks do not derive any regulatory capital benefits from using LMI

Foreign LMI providers have entered the local market, some replacing Genworth within the banks

RMBS are now more likely to be originated where ratings of senior tranches are not dependent on LMI

Moodys Investor Services has downgraded lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) provider Genworth Australia from A3 to Baa1 bringing the firms insurance financial strength rating (IFSR) from upper-medium grade to medium-grade.The downgrade reflects a rising level of tail risks within the Australian housing market as well as a decreasing demand for LMI products, Moodys analysts said. These factors overshadowed more positive developments such as the de-risking of the Genworth portfolio and stable regulatory capital.Macro-prudential measures implemented by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) have led to lower volumes of high loan-to-value ratio (LVR) loans.This development has in turn led to a sharp fall in gross written premiums for Australian LMI providers, with Genworth Australia reporting a 25% fall in gross written premium for FY2016 and a 20% decline for FY2015, analysts wrote.This has also increased pressure on the average premium which Genworth can charge clients with levels dropping from 1.82% in 1H 2014 to 1.65% in 1H 2017.A number of other factors have also led to a lower demand for LMI products in the Australian market:While, in Moody's opinion, declining origination volumes do not pose an immediate concern for Genworth Australia's credit profile, they may over time elevate the risks of a loss of the company's pricing power, putting downward pressure on its profitability and market position, analysts wrote.Rising house prices and an increased level of household debt indicate an increasing level of systemic risk in the market. Analysts predict that an increase on household stress could impact consumer confidence and consumption which will have a ripple effect on the economy.Consequently, Moody's believes that Genworth Australia is exposed to the risk of a sharper-than-anticipated downturn in the housing market and an increase in its loss ratio.Moodys analysts conceded that the shift to lower LVR originations have meant a reduced level of risk for Genworths portfolio. This change in composition has led to a reduction in regulatory capital needs, they said.This has allowed Genworth Australia to pay out dividends in excess of current year earnings, while maintaining a healthy regulatory capital level that, at 1.48 times the Prescribed Capital Amount (PCA) at 31 December 2016, was above the company's target 1.32-1.44x PCA range.The combination of these factors has led to a stable rating outlook by Moodys, which predicts the insurer will be able to maintain financial metrics that fall within the Baa1 rating.While a ratings upgrade is not likely in the medium-term due to continuing housing sector risks and lower LMI demand, analysts said that a further downgrade was possible if credit conditions deteriorate further.In particular, factors that increase the risk of a sharp correction in the housing market, such as material further increases in private sector credit-to-GDP and/or household debt-to-income ratio, would be credit-negative.
Eagles can tie franchise record, but first they have to fix one issue
A number of rare birds  a Greater White-fronted Goose, Long-billed Dowitcher, and Eared Grebe, among them  were spotted in Bucks County in the first week of November, an ornithology organization has confirmed. The organization  ebird.org, a biodiversity group that is among the largest birder communities worldwide  reported the sightings took place in New Hope, Northampton Township...
latest news

October 31, 2022

Buddy TV

In November, there are hundreds of new and returning TV showsit can be overwhelming to try and choose what to watch. That's why we've selected some of the best options...
Campus News

From Buffalo to Tanzania, a journey that changes lives

By REBECCA RUDELL

Reprinted from At Buffalo

It was bizarre, says Mara Huber, associate dean of undergraduate research and experiential learning at UB, describing how the Buffalo Tanzania Education Project (BTEP) was born. My name is Mara. They were from the Mara Region. I was working on school partnerships. They were looking for a partner to help build a school for girls. They are Sister Janepha and Sister Agnes from the Immaculate Heart Sisters of Africa, whom Huber met while having Christmas dinner at her in-laws house in 2007. The school they wished to build opened in January of this year, with help from UB, Buffalo community groups and the Girls Education Collaborative, a local nonprofit that started as an offshoot of BTEP. Huber started BTEP in 2009 to unite students, faculty and Buffalo groups in an informal partnership that emphasizes relationships over one-off projects. Its goal: improving opportunities for women and families in Tanzanias Mara Region. I have learned that the best partnerships are built on strong relationships that represent mutual respect and trust, Huber explains. This vision for collaboration continues to drive me. She calls UBs Tanzania course  which also evolved out of BTEP, becoming an official study abroad offering in 2014  a shining example of all that is possible. Indeed it is. Matt Falcone, a senior double-majoring in environmental and civil engineering, took the trip in 2015. He is now working on a parabolic solar trough that will provide clean water to people in developing countries, and could also find use in the U.S. in places like Flint, Mich., where clean-water issues continue to make headlines. His passion for this issue crystallized after he witnessed the need for clean water in Tanzania.

Students also spent time in Serengeti Natural Park. "You're standing all day [in the safari vehicle], dirt on your face, but it was the greatest feeling to be there," said UB student Danielle Nerber. Students also spent time in Serengeti Natural Park. "You're standing all day [in the safari vehicle], dirt on your face, but it was the greatest feeling to be there," said UB student Danielle Nerber.



Tyler Choi (BA 17), also touched by the people and places he encountered during his 2014 and 2015 visits, created Hugs for Tanzania, a crowdfunding initiative that raised money for school supplies for children at Kotwo Primary School. Choi also co-founded the UB Rotaract Club with Falcone to empower local and global communities toward sustainable improvements in health, education and infrastructure across social and national boundaries. Their mission, which happens to coincide with many of the ideas advanced by Huber and her partners, demonstrates just how strong the effects of experiential learning can be. Huber has been making the 20-hour journey to Tanzania nearly every year since 2009. She and her colleagues started bringing students in 2011 because they felt that direct interaction with people, places and ideas would provide a powerful avenue for growth. Huber also wanted students to break free from the notion that aid consists solely of donating money.
Homeowners are dropping flood insurance despite rising risk

The number of homeowners covered by the National Flood Insurance Program in New Jersey has dropped 17.5%.
Common folk aren't the only ones eyeing a McDonald's burger hungrily. Five leading names from the restaurant and food business are looking at a possible partnership with McDonald's India, according to reports.



Restaurant and foods firms Speciality Restaurants, Jubilant FoodWork, Moon Beverages, Lite Bite Foods, and Hardcastle Restaurants have expressed interest in becoming franchise partners for McDonalds North and East region business amid the American burger chain's legal battle with its estranged partner, the Vikram Bakshi-led Connaught Plaza Restaurants Ltd (CPRL), the Economic Times reported on Monday.
Tez (fast), the India-specific payments app built by Google, turned slow on the first day of its launch on Monday, and this angered users, who complained that they could not sign up on the service.
Kerala-based (CSB) Board has approved a proposal to raise capital by way of the qualified institutional buyer (QIB) allocating upto 40 million shares to the investors. The Bank which is seeking around Rs 400 crore to fund its growth till March 2019, said the process will be completed by October.The development comes two months after Fairfax called off CSB's investment plan due to a valuation issue. Canadian investor Prem Watsa's Fairfax Financial Holdings was planning to invest around Rs 1,000 crore in CSB for a 51 per cent stake.Speaking to Business Standard C V R Rajendran, managing director & chief executive of the CSB said that the Board has given an approval for issue preferential shares by selling upto 40 million shares. The prices will be decided by way of the book-building process.Depending upon the price, the bank may either issue 20 million shares or a little more, or if the price is good it can go upto 40 million shares also, Rajendran added. If the bank issues all the 40 million shares, it will be 33 per cent dilution.

The bank has appointed JM Financial as merchant banker and in the coming weeks, it is planning to meet the potential investors.



"We require around Rs 400 crore till March 2019 to support our growth plans," said Rajendran, who expects the process to be completed by October end.
ABC News(NEW YORK) -- President Trump will this week play host at the United Nations General Assembly, where he'll tackle a series of global challenges as he faces backlash from not just adversaries but allies in an organization he disparaged as a candidate.



Heres what the Trump administration will be focused on for its first UN General Assembly.



North Korea



North Korea continues to be the most difficult foreign policy challenge facing the White House, and Trump will be conducting diplomacy himself as he tries to win more support for his administrations efforts to isolate and pressure the provocative regime.



Less than a month after the countrys sixth nuclear test -- and its largest yet, at 250 kilotons -- North Korea has said it intends to produce an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.



The latest test prompted a hard-fought and rare unanimous vote in favor of sanctions that included North Korean allies China and Russia. Passed one week ago Monday, they now ban over 90 percent of North Korean exports, limits its oil imports, and bans alternatives like natural gas.



That means time is running out, and as Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday, If our diplomatic efforts fail, though, our military option will be the only one left.



President Trump appeared to tout the new sanctions in tweet.

I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 17, 2017

Candidate Trump bashed the U.N. for its utter weakness and incompetence.The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. Its not a friend to freedom, Trump told the American Israel Public Affairs Committees conference in 2016. Its not a friend even to the United States of America, where, as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel.But administration officials say reform of the international forum, not withdrawal from it, is a top priority of his ambassador there. Nikki Haley showed up on her first day promising a new day, but explaining that the U.S. wanted to show value at the U.N.Trump will participate in a forum on Monday with the U.N.s senior leadership and the leaders of more than 120 other nations to discuss Reforming the United Nations: Management, Security, and Development.Haley told reporters at the White House Friday that the organization "stopped focusing on the commas and the periods" and was "actually acting."The administration called for severe cuts in funding to the organization -- funding that the U.N. says it cannot do its work without.U.S. aid is vital to what we do to support refugees around the world and to find solutions to their situations, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said standing next to Tillerson Sunday.The other key priority for the Trump administration will be the fight against terrorism. As the U.S. accelerates ISISs fall on the battlefield, it must now confront a global challenge of what comes next in Iraq and Syria as other terror groups and Iran -- which the U.S. calls the leading state sponsor of terrorism -- jockey for position.Trumps White House has delegated authorities to U.S. military commanders in the field and given the Pentagon broader powers to make decisions, which he says has bolstered the campaign against ISIS.Trump will meet with several Middle Eastern allies to discuss that issue in particular, including Jordans King Abdullah and Egypts President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Wednesday and Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Afghanistans President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday.They say together they will look for ways to support the governments in Iraq and Afghanistan, stop the flow of foreign fighters and their exportation of terror back to their home countries, and resolve the bloody conflict in Syria that has allowed terrorist groups to thrive in the heart of the Middle East.The last two points are crucial for European allies, too, as the United Kingdom copes with its sixth terrorist attack this year alone.Meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a strong Trump ally, will be a focal point for the White House. The two leaders will meet Monday, and Iran is expected to be a top priority as Israel grows increasingly concerned and active about Iranian influence in neighboring Syria.Beyond Irans support for Hezbollah and other terror groups, Trump will also face an urgent question about what he plans to do with the Iran nuclear deal. Behind the scenes, his administration will likely measure support for the accord and potential changes or alternatives as it contemplates whether to withdraw.The signatories of the deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, will meet this week to discuss the deal -- the highest-level meeting yet between the Trump administration and Iran.Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Following the discovery that some of Air Indias assets are not owned by the carrier but are on a 99-year lease from the government, the Centre has decided to sell some of its real estate properties directly to expedite the state-owned airlines divestment, according to a media report.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) will invest about Rs 320 crore in realty firm Developers' industrial park projects across Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

Developers Ltd is the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the Mahindra Group while IFC is a member of the World Bank group.

and IFC announced "a partnership for the development of multiple industrial parks across Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra".

IFC has committed $50 million investment in these projects.

"The partnership envisages investment across Mahindra Lifespaces' existing and upcoming industrial park projects, with its first investment in an approximately 350-acre industrial park near Ahmedabad," Mahindra Lifespace said in a statement.

Mahindra Lifespace MD Anita Arjundas said sustainable industrial ecosystems are key enablers for attracting investment in manufacturing.

"Industrial parks or special economic zones are globally recognised as engines for economic growth and development. Development of these parks will attract private investments and provide a fillip to several flagship initiatives of the Government of India and create jobs," said Jun Zhang, IFC Country Head for India.

Mahindra Lifespace's housing and commercial development footprint include 14.06 million sq ft of completed projects and 8.7 million sq ft of ongoing and forthcoming ones.

The company is developing two integrated business cities, under 'Mahindra World City' brand, in Chennai and Jaipur.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Unlock 30+ premium stories daily hand-picked by our editors, across devices on browser and app.

Full access to our intuitive epaper - clip, save, share articles from any device; newspaper archives from 2006.

Curated newsletters on markets, personal finance, policy & politics, start-ups, technology, and more.

Pick your 5 favourite companies, get a daily email with all news updates on them.

26 years of website archives.
The Chennai Bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has issued an order to commence the corporate insolvency resolution process against Inasra Technologies, which ran the online accommodation aggregator Stayzilla, in a petition filed by its vendor Jigsaw Solutions.
The central government might decide to list the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on the stock exchanges, as a way to bypass the need for bank funding.
Police in Maharashtra's Thane have detained Iqbal Ibrahim Kaskar, brother of absconding mafia don Kaskar, for questioning in an extortion case, official sources said late on Monday.

Kaskar was picked up from his south Mumbai residence by a team of Thane Anti-Extortion Cell headed by former 'encounter specialist' Pradeep Sharma.

The action follows a complaint by a city businessman alleging he had been getting extortion calls from some mafia gangsters owing allegiance to Iqbal Kaskar.

Acting on the complaint, Sharma picked up Kaskar, who is presently being questioned by sleuths, the sources said.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday asked the International Human Rights Commissions to not spread false information against India on Rohingya Muslims matter.

His statement comes ahead of filing an affidavit in the Supreme Court over the issue.

"It (Rohingya issue) is a sensitive matter. Whatever the Government of India does, it will be in the nation's interest. I would like to request the International Human Rights Committee and Commissions to not spread anything wrong against India," he told media here.

The Union Minister further said that the Centre will take a decision, which will in the nation's interest, on the Rohingya matter.

"Our way forward will be based in the nation's interest and we'll mention the same in our affidavit to be submitted in the Supreme Court," he added.

The Centre will today file an affidavit in the apex court on the Rohingya matter.

The apex court will also hear a plea filed by the two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, seeking its intervention to direct the Central Government to not deport them and other Rohingyas.

Earlier, India announced that it plans to deport around 40,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees living illegally in India. The government said that even those registered with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees would be deported.

The Rohingya Muslims live in India after fleeing Myanmar over the past decade. Nearly 15,000 have received refugee documentation, according to the United Nations, but India wants to deport them all.

Rohingyas are denied citizenship in the Buddhist-majority Myanmar and regarded as illegal immigrants, despite claiming roots that date back centuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada river, saying no other project in the world has faced so many hurdles as this "engineering miracle" which many people had "conspired to stop".

"No other project in the world has faced such hurdles as the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada river. But we were determined to complete the project," Modi said here.

Addressing a rally some 55 kms from the dam site in Dabhoi town of Vadodara district, the Prime Minister said "Sardar Sarovar will become a symbol of India's new and emerging power and propel growth in the region ... The project is an engineering miracle."



Modi, who had earlier dedicated the dam to the nation on his 67th birthday, said "many false allegations were hurled on us. Many people conspired to stop this project. But we were determined not to take make it a political battle."



"I have knowledge ('kacha chittha') of everyone who tried to stall this project, but I will not name them as I do not want to go on that route," Modi said.

"A massive misinformation campaign was launched against the project. The World Bank which had earlier agreed to fund the project, refused to give loan for it raising environmental concerns. But, with or without the World Bank, we completed the massive project on our own," he said.

Modi said the construction of this dam was an engineering marvel and every engineering student should study it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi overviews the construction work of Statue of Unity after inaugurating the Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadiya in Narmada district on Sunday. Photo: PTI

Noting that shortage of water was a major factor in slowing the pace of development, Modi said the project will also help take water from the dam to the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat to fulfil the water needs of BSF soldiers, besides benefitting states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers to Narmada River during the inauguration of Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadiya in Narmada district on Sunday. Photo: PTI

Paying tributes to Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel and B R Ambedkar, Modi said had the two leaders lived longer, the dam would have been completed in the 60s and 70s itself, boosting the economy and combating the problems of drought and floods.

Nearly 56 years after its foundation was laid, the Sardar Sarovar Dam, which was mired in controversies and faced stiff opposition from affected villagers, became a reality today after Modi unveiled the plaque to launch it.

Earlier, the prime minister had performed a puja at the site in Kevadia area of the Narmada district.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari and Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.




The CBI on Monday claimed in the Supreme Court that it has more material to substantiate its charges against Karti Chidambaram, son of former Union Minister P Chidambaram, in a graft case.

During the brief hearing in the case which took place twice during the day before a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, the CBI said it was ready with a sealed envelope containing the documents to buttress its probe done so far.

However, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Karti, said that the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, should not take on record the documents without the agency filing an affidavit in this regard.

The bench adjourned the matter for final hearing on September 22 on the appeal of the CBI challenging the Madras High Court order staying government's look out circular against .

The FIR lodged by the CBI on May 15 had alleged irregularities in Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Karti's father was the Finance Minister.

Sibal alleged that the CBI has been seeking adjournments in the case and a person cannot be interrogated in this manner.

Earlier, he had alleged that all baseless allegations have been levelled against Karti and had challenged the CBI to bring out the details of any property which the Chidambarams cannot account for.

Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, had vehemently countered the submission and said the probe was at a very crucial stage and substantial information have been given to the court in a sealed cover.

On September 1, the CBI had told the apex court that there were "good, cogent" reasons for issuing look out circular against Karti.

On August 18, the court had asked Karti to appear before the investigating officer at the CBI headquarters here for questioning in the case.

The bench had given the probe agency the liberty to question Karti as many times it wanted.

Before this, the apex court had said that Karti would not be allowed to leave India without subjecting himself to investigation in the case. The court had then stayed the Madras High Court order putting on hold the LOC issued by the Centre against Karti.

The CBI had claimed that the FDI proposal of the media house, cleared by Chidambaram, was "fallacious".

The FIR was registered on May 15 before the special CBI judge here and the registration of the case was followed by searches at the residences and offices of Karti and his friends on May 16.
PM looks for solutions to perk up economy



The topmost rungs of the Narendra Modi government are looking for solutions to arrest the slide in gross domestic product growth. The PM is expected to meet Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and top finance ministry officials on Tuesday evening to discuss possible measures to boost growth. Meanwhile, former PM Manmohan Singh reiterated his warning of demonetisation and hasty implementation of the GST adversely impacting GDP growth. In November last year, Singh had said in Parliament that Modis note ban was a monumental mismanagement, organised loot and legalised plunder, which would cause GDP growth to fall by 2 per cent. Read more

Oppose Tata Sons' plan to go private: Mistry family to group companies



The Shapoorji Pallonji Mistry family has written to listed Tata group companies holding stakes in Tata Sons to oppose the companys bid to go private and vote against the proposal in the annual general meeting (AGM) of shareholders on Thursday. The Mistry family said the proposed move would not only be detrimental to the interests of the minority shareholders, but also dilute the governance standards at Tata Sons. Read more

Homegrown utility vehicle major Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Ford have decided to collaborate again, after a 1995 tie-up to facilitate the American carmakers entry into India ended in 2005. This time, the firms would explore joint development of products, especially electric and connected vehicles. The partnership will look to expand Fords reach in the fast-growing Indian market and improve M&Ms access to global markets. At present, both have a single-digit share in a market dominated by Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor.P P Chaudhary, the newly-appointed minister of state for corporate affairs, is monitoring and coordinating actions against shell companies. He tells Veena Mani & Indivjal Dhasmana that the government is trying to find the beneficiaries of the 209,0000 companies that have not filed statutory returns. Chaudhary says there may be cases where even domestic help could be part of the board of directors.Tez (fast), the India-specific payments app built by Google, turned slow on the first day of its launch on Monday, and this angered users, who complained that they could not sign up on the service. Hundreds of users took to Twitter and other social networks to vent their displeasure, with a few of them even offering Tez a one-star rating on Googles Play Store. Read more
The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their countinous stay posed "serious security ramifications".

The Centre's affidavit, filed in the apex court Registry, said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

Earlier during the day, a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of ASG Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, that the reply would be filed later today and fixed the PIL challenging the deportation of Rohingyas for hearing on October 3.

"As evident from the constitutional guarantee flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution, the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as well as right to move freely throughout the territory of India is available only to the citizens of India... No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this Court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general...," the affidavit filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The Centre said the were illegals and their continuous stay pose a grave security threat.

"It is submitted that continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious security ramifications and has serious security threats," it said.

The government said it may file in sealed cover the details of the security threats and inputs gathered by the various security agencies in this matter.

The Centre said that since India is not a signatory to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, the obligations concerned to non-refoulement is not applicable.

"That the provisions of Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951 and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1967 cannot be relied upon by the petitioner since India is not a signatory of either of them. It is respectfully submitted that the obligation concerning the prohibition of return/non-refoulement is a codified provision under the provisions of 1951 Convention referred to above.

"It is submitted that this obligation is binding only in respect of the States which are parties to the Convention. Since India is not a party to the said Convention, or the said Protocol, the obligations contained therein are not applicable to India," it said.

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.

The plea, filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR), claimed they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The violent attacks allegedly by Myanmarese armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, were settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

The plea said that India has ratified and is a signatory to various conventions that recognise the Principle of "Non- Refoulement', which prohibits deportation of refugees to a country where they may face threat to their lives.

The government has recently raised "serious concern" over reports of renewed violence and attacks in Myanmar and extended its "strong" support to the Myanmarese government at this "challenging moment".
The Supreme Court today directed the members of the District Bar Association of Gurgaon not to obstruct in any manner the proceedings going on before a special judge there relating to the murder of a seven-year-old student in the Ryan International school.

The apex court was informed by the bar body that they have withdrawn their earlier resolution in which they had said that no lawyer will represent any of the accused in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra observed that an accused has the right to be represented by an advocate and the bar was under an obligation not to obstruct any lawyer from appearing on behalf of an accused.

"We must say without any hesitation that any accused, whatever the offence may be, has a right to be represented by an advocate. The tradition of the bar does not authorise any bar association to pass a resolution like this.

"However, the solace is realising the fault. The bar association has withdrawn it (resolution)," the bench, also comprising Justice A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, said.

The bench was hearing a plea filed by Francis Thomas, the northern zone head of Ryan Group, seeking transfer of the student murder case from the local court at Sohna, alleging that the bar has restrained lawyers from representing the accused in the sensational case. Thomas was arrested in connection with the case.

During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Sandeep Kapur, appearing for Thomas, told the bench there was "hostile atmosphere" at the Sohna court and no lawyer was appearing for the accused in the case.

Class 2 student Pradyuman was found with his throat slit on the morning of September 8 in the toilet of the Ryan International School in Gurgaon.

Police allege that 42-year-old bus conductor Ashok Kumar killed him with a knife after the boy resisted an attempt to sodomise him.
The Supreme Court will take a call on the central government's plans to deport Rohingya Muslims, who entered the country "illegally", Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday.

"An affidavit has been filed. Whatever decision is to be taken, it will be taken by the court," he told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

The Centre today told the apex court that the Rohingya Muslims were "illegal" immigrants in the country and that their continuous stay posed "serious security ramifications".

In an affidavit filed in the apex court registry, the NDA government said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

The apex court is hearing a plea filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered as refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR). They claimed that they have taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The immigrants also challenged their deportation on grounds of violation of international human rights conventions.

The issue came to the fore after the home ministry in July stated that illegal immigrants such as the Rohingyas posed grave security challenges as they might be recruited by terror groups, and asked the state governments to identify and deport them.

The ministry also directed the state governments to set up a task force at district level to identify and deport "illegally-staying foreign nationals".

The government had told the parliament on August 9 that according to available data, more than 14,000 Rohingyas, registered with the UNHCR, were staying in India.

However, some inputs indicate that around 40,000 undocumented Rohingyas were staying in India, mostly in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan regions.
Red beacons aren't the only status symbol VIPs like to sport. Among others is having a policeman (or three) by your side. This is not a harmless proclivity either as the practice of cops being deputed to guard VIPs has left India among the least policed countries in the world, according to reports.
The United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to impose a new set of sanctions against in response to Pyongyangs sixth and strongest nuclear test explosion on September 3. The new sanctions set a cap on crude and refined oil exports to .


Myanmar is witnessing a military crackdown against the Rohingya ethnic community. Facing extreme violence, hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas have fled from their homes in Myanmar. It is estimated that more than 300,000 have entered Bangladesh. Even as Bangladesh has been stretched in providing relief to these refugees, the Bangladesh government and activists in India have been pushing the Indian government to admit refugees in India. The Indian government for its part has sent relief assistance to Bangladesh for these refugees but has not agreed to accept more Rohingya refugees in India. What is driving the Indian response to this crisis? What are the factors that make this a complex decision? The author analyses in this Business Standard Special.

India remains deeply concerned about the situation in Rakhine State in Myanmar and the outflow of refugees from that region, began a recent statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India. The rest of this short 166-word note focused on strongly condemning the terrorist attacks on Myanmar security forces, reminded us of Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent aid commitment to the strife torn region, and urged the powers that be in Myanmar to handle the situation with maturity, focus on the welfare of both civilians and security forces, and restore normalcy expeditiously. Soon after, New Delhi launched Operation Insaniyat offering aid to Rohingya refugees pouring into Bangladesh. Both the statement and the aid make for fitting examples of how India balances competing domestic and foreign policy advocacies and priorities. As this article demonstrates, torn between balancing its legacy of humanitarianism and protecting its material national interests, India has  in simultaneity  communicated its displeasure at the situation to Myanmar, stepped up support for the persecuted minority in Bangladesh, and assured Naypyitaw of continuous political, economic and military support. That this balance has emerged more from default reactions to regional pressures (e.g. Dhakas anger over New Delhis inaction) instead of intellectual design, and the fact that it is unlikely to stem Tatmadaw operations makes for a successful, yet un-fine balance.

Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal. They do not reflect the view/s of Business Standard.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has suggested manufacturing telecom equipment in the country to offset security concerns because of excessive reliance on foreign-made goods. It has issued a paper to identify policy measures, address issues of standardisation, and noted incentives that can be given to industry.
Over 100 journalists, development agencies and community workers attended a National Media Consultation on the Swachh Bharat Mission in the Capital. The Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Parameswaran Iyer, presided over the consultation. In his opening remarks, Shri Iyer shared details of the nation-wide mass mobilization drive, Swachhata Hi Seva", which follows an impassioned call by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, ahead of the 3rd anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission that falls on 2nd October. He said that the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign is seeing large scale mobilization of people from all walks of life to undertake shramdaan for cleanliness and construction of toilets, and cleaning up of public and tourist places. The participation has already begun in full swing, and has ranged from the President of India to the common citizen, involving Union Ministers, Governors, Chief Ministers, legislators, celebrities, faith leaders, and corporate leaders spearheading the campaign in their respective areas of influence. He particularly appreciated the tremendous efforts being made by school children, central police services and defence personnel. .

.

The Secretary also shared a snapshot of the progress made by the Swachh Bharat Mission so far, mentioning that 5 States, nearly 200 districts and nearly 2.4 lakh villages across the country have already declared themselves as Open Defecation Free. 1.5 lakh villages have ranked themselves on the Village Swachhta Index based on the solid and liquid waste management in the villages. He also quoted an independent survey conducted across 140,000 households by the Quality Council of India, which found household toilet usage to be 91%. He concluded by calling upon the media to spread the message of sanitation and cleanliness during the fortnight and beyond. .

.

Mr Nicolas Osbert, Chief, WASH, UNICEF India, in his welcome address, spoke about the impact of lack of sanitation on the health and growth of small children. He said that it was heartening to note that, with the Swachh Bharat Mission and the personal leadership of Indias Prime Minister himself, concrete action is happening on the ground with respect to changing old habits through genuine focus on behavior change. .

.

He also shared with the media present, the results of an independent survey conducted by UNICEF across 10000 households in 12 States of the country, to measure the economic impact of sanitation at a household level. He said the survey found that, in fully ODF communities, considering the medical costs averted, value of mortality averted, and the value of time savings, an average family that invests in a toilet will save Rs 50,000 per year. The cost-benefit ratio of a household found in the study was 430% in fully ODF communities. This meant that a single rupee invested in sanitation, allows a family to save Rs 4.30. He added that these benefits are the highest for the poorest quintile of the population in a community, which was encouraging as it established that improved sanitation helps the poorest of the poor the most. .

.

Swachh Bharat Champions from the grassroots, Ms. Madhu Chauhan (Sarpanch, Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh), Shri Rajneesh Sharma (Primary School Principal, Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh), and Ms. Deepa Joshi (ANM supervisor, US Nagar, Uttarakahand), also shared their experiences with the media on the occasion. .

.

<><><><><> .

.

SNC
Union Home Minister operationalises the New Intelligence Set-up of SSB Guarding countrys open borders more challenging: Shri Rajnath Singh

Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh operationalised the New Intelligence Set-up of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at a function here today. This marked the culmination of a long pending aspiration of the Force following approval of the Union Home Minister.SSB has been declared as the Lead Intelligence Agency (LIA) for both the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders. Thus, it was felt that a well knit intelligence network of the highest capabilities that can function and deliver would be the prime requirement of comprehensive Border Management. This was quite essential as the operations of SSB have to be Intelligence based so as to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan. MHA has accordingly sanctioned 650 posts in various ranks from Battalion to Frontier Headquarters.Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said the job of SSB is much more demanding and challenging since it is vested the responsibility of guarding open borders unlike other borders. This makes the task much more challenging and demands highest alertness to check illegal activities like smuggling of arms, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), drugs and human-trafficking.Commending the leadership shown by Smt. Archana Ramasundaram, who is the first woman to head any CAPF, the Union Home Minister said she has proved her mettle by leading a paramilitary force with exemplary skills. Shri Rajnath Singh cautioned the Forces personnel to keep a tab on rumour-mongering over the social media. Assuring the Governments concern about the welfare of the CAPF personnel and their families, the Union Home Minister said he has taken steps to ensure a martyrs family gets atleast Rs. 1 crore compensation.

He urged the CAPF Officers each to adopt a CAPF martyrs family. On the occasion, the Union Home Minister launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) Mobile App for CAPF personnel. The App is available on Google Play store and is user friendly. It contains various useful features to facilitate retired CAPFs and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances redressed, seek skill development training through National Skill Development Corporation under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information. This mobile App shall also help retired personnel to have better co-ordination with WARB and its field formation at states/UTs and district level. Later Shri Rajnath Singh released the book Pride of India", a compilation on SSB martyrs and awardees. He also distributed scholarships to children of SSB martyrs. Till date 43 Officers and personnel of SSB have sacrificed their lives for national security. This year Shri Amal Sarkar made the supreme sacrifice after gunning down one militant in an encounter with NDFB militants in Chirang district of Assam. SSB Wives Welfare Association SANDIKSHA" has taken up the task to help out wards of such martyrs under the Sanrakshan scheme. SANDIKSHA" is providing financial help to children of martyrs who are still studying in school, colleges and universities to continue their studies. In his address MoS (Home) Shri Hansarj Gangaram Ahir said the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has laid emphasis on Police Modernization and the Government is committed to carry it forward. Welcoming the new Intelligence Wing of the SSB, Director, Intelligence Bureau, Shri Rajiv Jain said it will act like a force multiplier. Directors-General of CAPFs were present on the occasion. Director General, SSB, Smt. Archana Ramasundaram said that the Forces Operations are mostly based on Intelligence hence the new Intelligence set-up will help effective guarding of Indias open borders with Nepal and Bhutan. The Force has undertaken Modernization programme and the SSB has acquired two UAVs while the MHA has approved three Bomb Detection and Disposal squads for the SSB, she added.
Chinese search engine giant Inc said on Monday it had hired the finance chief of Weibo Corp as its chief financial officer, marking a leadership change for the firm as it hones its focus onto artificial intelligence.

The appointment of Herman Yu, Weibo's CFO since 2015, sees stalwart Jennifer Li step down as CFO after almost a decade in the role to become a senior adviser to Baidu's top management, the company said in a statement.

is trying to drive a recovery in its fortunes after a string of regulatory investigations last year hit profit. A sharper focus on mobile and artificial intelligence (AI) helped boost the firm in the latest quarter.

"I look forward to working with Herman in his new capacity, as Baidu enters the next stage of growth in the AI era," Baidu Chairman Robin Li said in a statement, citing Yu's long financial experience with US-listed firms.

Baidu has been forced to revamp its business model and focus to keep pace with its main local tech rivals - Tencent Holdings Ltd and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd - which are spending billions of dollars expanding into new markets.

Li, one of China's most powerful female tech figures, will remain chief executive of Baidu's private equity unit Baidu Capital, which focuses on investment opportunities in AI.

Yu, who studied in California, has previously worked at Adobe Systems Inc and VeriFone Systems Inc, and sits of the boards of a number Chinese tech-related firms including 58.com Inc and ZTO Express Inc.

Weibo, backed by Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba and which operates one of China's most popular microblog platforms, was not immediately available for comment.
There are none so blind as those who will not see.
Pakistan is ready with a tough diplomatic policy if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabad's major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, according to a media report.

Pakistan's new strategy comes after US President Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants.

A day after Trump's announcement, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson suggested that the US could downgrade Islamabad's status as a major non-NATO ally if it does not crack down on militants.

The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government has prepared a three-option 'toughest diplomatic policy'.

According to official sources, the policy includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

"The last option may include a ban on using Pakistani land for NATO supplies to Afghanistan," according to the newspaper.

However, the policy will be implemented after the approval of the National Security Committee.

Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan are expected to sort out their differences during the meetings between their leaders on the sidelines of UN General Assembly session starting tomorrow.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is expected to meet US Vice President Mike Pence while the foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Editors note: In February, U.S. Republican senators Tom Cotton and David Perdue, with President Donald Trump, unveiled an immigration bill called the . It would create a merit-based points system for evaluating foreigners applying to come to the U.S. through an employment visa.
The world is witnessing a state-orchestrated humanitarian catastrophe on the Myanmar-Bangladesh border. The latest UN figures show a staggering 370,000 Rohingya have fled into Bangladesh since August 25. An unknown number have perished. Around 26,000 non-Muslims have also been displaced.
Nazir Hossain, the imam of a village in far western Myanmar, gathered the faithful around him after evening prayers last month. In a few hours, more than a dozen Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army fighters from his village would strike a nearby police post with an assortment of handmade weapons.
From a loft in San Francisco in 1967, a 21-year-old named Jann S Wenner started a magazine that would become the counterculture bible for baby boomers. defined cool, cultivated literary icons and produced star-making covers that were such coveted real estate they inspired a song.
The whole world confronts an unprecedented, grave and imminent threat from North Korea. On Sept. 3, the regime carried out a reprehensible nuclear test. Late last week, it launched a ballistic missile over my country, Japan, only two weeks after a similar missile launch. By repeatedly testing missiles  in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions  Pyongyang has shown its reach now extends to the United States and Europe.
South Africa's tax agency on Monday accused KPMG of "unethical" and "unlawful" behaviour in withdrawing a report that suggested the former finance minister ran a rogue unit to spy on political leaders.

The global auditor is the latest firm to become embroiled in factional battles within South Africa's political establishment. KPMG cleared out its South African leadership en masse on Friday after a damning internal investigation into work the firm did for businessmen friends of President Jacob Zuma.

In particular, it acknowledged "flaws" in a report for the tax service, completed last year, which implied that former finance minister Pravin Gordhan had helped set up the rogue unit in the service. Zuma sacked Gordhan in March.

On Monday, however, South African Revenue Services (SARS) commissioner Tom Moyane defended KPMG's original report and accused the firm of "abhorrent, unethical, and unprofessional conduct" in withdrawing it.

"I want to say the report by KPMG is not flawed. In fact the report from KPMG confirms conclusively, deeply so, that there is prima facie evidence of wrongdoing in this organisation (SARS)," he told a news conference.

He said KPMG's withdrawal left the tax agency with no option but to consider legal proceedings against it. SARS would also cut all ties with KPMG and assess work the auditor had performed in the last 10 years.

Moyane said SARS would report KPMG to Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba with a view to blacklisting the auditor for its "unethical" and "unlawful" behaviour. It would also ask parliament to investigate the firm.

"SQUEEZED FROM BOTH SIDES"

KPMG said last week its internal investigation into its work for the Gupta business family, accused by a public watchdog of improperly influencing government contracts, "fell considerably short of KPMG's standards".

KPMG said on Monday it was considering Moyane's statement and was unable to comment further.

KPMG has become the third global firm to be damaged by work carried out for the Indian-born Gupta brothers, after the business consultancy McKinsey and the public relations agency Bell Pottinger, whose British business collapsed this week.

Zuma and the Guptas deny wrongdoing and say they are victims of a politically motivated witch-hunt.

Former Minister Gordhan, in an open letter on Friday rejecting KPMG's apology, said the audit firm's report implicating him had damaged South Africa's young democracy, and that he was considering legal steps.

"KPMG is being squeezed from people both sides of this issue," said political analyst Daniel Silke.

"For SARS, KPMG's apology was incredibly embarrassing. SARS were thrown to the wolves. Elements in SARS that were previously aligned with KPMG and its report have been embarrassed and now have to fight back."

Moyane said KPMG had no right to make information in the report public or to withdraw parts of the document without consulting SARS.

"SARS sees KPMG's conduct as nothing else but a dismal attempt to portray SARS, its leadership, and in particular (the) SARS Commissioner as incompetent, corrupt, inefficient and involved in a witch-hunt," he said.

The ruling African National Congress said in a statement on Monday parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts would ask KPMG to appear before it and account for its conduct on the SARS report.
When President Donald Trump takes the world stage at the United Nations for the first time this week, he will share the spotlight with his envoy Nikki Haley, who has emerged as the surprising public face of US foreign policy.
Britain on Sunday lowered its terrorism threat level, a day after the police arrested a second man in connection with the bombing in a London subway station that left dozens of people injured.
Facing an escalating nuclear threat from North Korea and the mass flight of minority Muslims from Myanmar, world leaders gather at the United Nations starting Monday to tackle these and other tough challenges, from the spread of terrorism to a warming planet.

The spotlight will be on US President Donald Trump and France's new leader, Emmanuel Macron, who will both be making their first appearance at the General Assembly.

They will be joined by more than 100 heads of state and government, including Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, one of Africa's longest-serving leaders who is said to be bringing a 70-member entourage.

While Trump's speeches and meetings will be closely followed, it will be North Korea, which Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls "the most dangerous crisis that we face today," that will be most carefully watched.

No official event addressing Pyongyang's relentless campaign to develop nuclear weapons capable of hitting the United States is on the UN agenda, but it is expected to be the No. 1 issue for most leaders.

Not far behind will be the plight of Myanmar's Rohingya Muslims, victims of what Guterres calls a campaign of ethnic cleansing that has driven nearly 400,000 to flee to Bangladesh in the past three weeks.

The Security Council, in its first statement on Myanmar in nine years, condemned the violence and called for immediate steps to end it.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson is hosting a closed meeting on the crisis Monday, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's contact group on the Rohingyas is scheduled to meet Tuesday.

Guterres said leaders would also be focusing on a third major threat, climate change. The number of natural disasters has nearly quadrupled and he pointed to unprecedented weather events in recent weeks from Texas, Florida and the Caribbean to Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Sierra Leone.

While Trump has announced that the United States will pull out of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, Macron will be hosting a meeting Tuesday to spur its implementation.

And a late addition to the hundreds of official meetings and side events during the ministerial week is a high-level session Monday on the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma.

Several terrorism-related events are on the agenda. Macron is holding a meeting Monday with leaders of five African nations, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad, that are putting together a 5,000-strong force to fight the growing threat from extremists in the vast Sahel region.

A side event Wednesday on "Preventing Terrorist Use of the Internet" will be attended by senior representatives of major social media companies. Co-hosts Britain, France and Italy said a global response is needed "to make the online space a hostile environment for terrorists."



Trump has accused Iran of supporting terrorists and is threatening to rip up the 2015 deal to rein in its nuclear program. With a US decision due in October, ministers from the six parties to the agreement are expected to meet next week. The five strongly support the deal.

Trump has also been critical of the United Nations and has promised to cut the US contribution to its budget, which is the largest. So some diplomats were surprised that the United States would sponsor an event Monday on reforming the 193-member world body.

Trump and Guterres will speak, and the United States has asked all countries to sign a declaration on UN reforms. Over 100 have added their names, but Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that "we are not sure we will sign this declaration."



He said that while "lots of ideas contained in this document are important and look similar to what the secretary-general proposes," UN reforms should result from negotiations among all countries instead of from "a declaration of like-minded countries."



The Security Council is holding a high-level meeting Wednesday on UN peacekeeping operations, which cost nearly $8 billion a year.

The United States, which pays over 28 per cent of the peacekeeping budget, is reviewing all the missions in an effort to cut costs and make them more effective.

While there are many side events on other global hotspots from the Central African Republic and South Sudan to Libya, Mali and Somalia, the ministerial meeting will also see sessions on achieving UN goals for 2030 to end extreme poverty and preserve the planet, women's economic empowerment, migration and conflict prevention, a top priority of the secretary- general.

Germany's UN Ambassador Christoph Heusgen said the most important thing about the General Assembly ministerial session, which officially begins Tuesday and ends September 25, is the opportunity for leaders to talk one-on-one or get together in groups.

"I think this is indeed the Super Bowl," he said. "If it didn't exist, one had to create this opportunity so that can people can talk to each other."



General Assembly President Miroslav Lajcak reminded member states that even representatives of countries "with profound disagreements on fundamental issues will sit side-by-side."



He suggested a simple rule: "Treat every speaker on this podium as if he or she is our own head of delegation."



"As long as we can use these meeting rooms to talk and reach compromises in goodwill, then we all have the collective opportunity to use the UN to make the world a better, and more peaceful place," Lajcak said.
On a Friday in August, the president of the United States casually said at a televised news briefing that his administration could not rule out a military option to respond to the crisis in Venezuela.
After iron and manganese ore mines, it could be the turn of non-ferrous mine leaseholders in Odisha to cough up hefty penalties for extracting ore beyond the approved limits.
Blockchain Conference makes its way to the India Blockchain Week, scheduled for September 25 and 26 in Mumbai. Somish, a leading Blockchain Technology firm based in New Delhi partnered with Fintech Worldwide, a London-based company to bring the event in India.

The India Blockchain Week or IBW is a week-long affair comprised up of the 'Hack-the-block' hackathon and the 16th blockchain conference from September 22 to 26 in Mumbai. The three-day 'Hack-the-Block' hackathon from September 22 to 24 is supported by Barclay's accelerator, Rise Mumbai and aims to solve real-life problems using blockchain platforms like Ethereum and Hyperledger. The hackathon aims to promote use of private, permissioned or public blockchain platforms to develop ideas that can bring in industry-level disruption.

The 16th Blockchain Conference is scheduled for September 25 and 26 at The Leela Hotel, Mumbai and has attracted speakers, corporate, governments and startups from across the globe to share their knowledge on one of the most sought after technologies in the world - Blockchain. The agenda of the conference has been carefully crafted to suit the Indian ecosystem, while still throwing light on the developments in the western world.

"Blockchain solutions are built on the 'power of we'. This is a cutting edge technology quickly moving beyond its infancy and has the potential to massively reduce costs and induce transparency across industries. Sectors like banking, insurance, manufacturing, retail, logistics, pharma and agriculture are starting to witness disruption globally, thanks to the advent of this technology," said Ish Goel, CEO of Somish.

"India Blockchain Week is our passionate attempt at bringing the best blockchain minds across the globe on a single platform in Mumbai to foster the Indian Blockchain Ecosystem. Delegates and speakers from over 10 countries will be visiting India for the event", added Kartic Rakhra, VP-India Blockchain Week

Over 50 companies, including traditional banks, payments banks, Insurers, large retail chains and huge conglomerates from India will also be represented at the conference. This is, by far, the biggest Blockchain event India has ever seen.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In what can be called a new twist to the political tale of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the 18 MLAs, who had been backing the sidelined party leader, T.T.V. Dinakaran, have been disqualified by the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker, P. Dhanapal.

The MLAs have been disqualified with effect from today, under the 1986 Tamil Nadu Assembly Members Party Defection Law.

The disqualified MLAs include Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P. Vetrivel and K. Mariappan.

The Dinakaran faction had earlier met the officials from the Election Commission and requested them to declare the recently-conducted general council meeting of the party null and void.

Vijila Sathyananth, of the Dinakaran faction, told the media here that the faction would soon hold a general council meet of the party after the consent of their general secretary - V.K. Sasikala.

The faction also moved the Madras High Court on plea over a floor test in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

The AIADMK, in its general council meeting, had passed a resolution, according to which jailed party general secretary V.K. Sasikala stood expelled from the party and the post of the temporary general secretary forfeited.

The resolution further said that the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, E. Palanisamy and his deputy, O. Panneerselvam, shall retrieve the party and its symbol.

Other terms of the resolution state that all announcements by T.T.V. Dinakaran stand cancelled.

Tamil Nadu's leader of opposition M.K. Stalin also said that he had moved the Madras High Court because Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao did not take due cognisance of his request of conducting a floor test in state assembly.

Stalin said he had asserted earlier that he will approach the court if Rao fails to address his concerns.

The DMK leader demanded an immediate floor test from the Governor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
It seems like there is more to the new Lara Croft than her choice of weapon.

Warner Bros. and MGM have shared the first official poster for the upcoming 'Tomb Raider' reboot, starring Vikander as the globetrotting archaeologist Lara Croft.

The captioned the poster, "Her legend begins. #TombRaider, in theaters March 2018."

The reboot comes more than 15 years after Angelina Jolie first brought the video game adventurer to the big screen, and the new 'Tomb Raider' finds Croft as an ordinary 21-year-old living in London.

Haunted by the apparent death of her archaeologist father (Dominic West), she soon sets out on a high-stakes mission to find him.

The climbing ax featured in the poster is actually from the video games that act as the movie's inspiration; it first appeared in the 2013 Tomb Raider game that rebooted the franchise, and shows up again in its follow-up, 'Rise of the Tomb Raider'.

They also dropped a short teaser alongside the poster.

Helmed by Roar Uthaug, the movie also stars Walton Goggins as the film's villain.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
England captain Eoin Morgan has confirmed that wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow will open the innings for the side along with Alex Hales in the opening ODI of the five-match series against West Indies, beginning at the Old Trafford tomorrow.

As a result, Jason Roy will not regain the spot which he had lost to Bairstow during the hosts' Champions Trophy semi-final defeat to Pakistan in Cardiff in June this year.

Roy, who lost his spot following his dip in form over a protracted period, was also dismissed for a golden duck against the Caribbean side in England's 21-run defeat in the one-off T-20 match at the Chester-le-Street on Saturday.

And now, Morgan informed that Bairstow instead would open in Manchester.

"Jonny is going to open with Alex Hales. We feel Jonny deserves a chance. He's been waiting in the wings for quite a while now. This is an opportunity to make the opening position his," the Guardian quoted Morgan, as saying.

Known for being one of England's most reliable batsmen across the formats, Bairstow marked his return to the ODI format with a score of 43 as his side knocked out of the Champions Trophy after slumping to an eight-wicket defeat to the Sarfraz Ahmed-led side.

When quizzed if England need to be at their menacing best in the upcoming ODI series against West Indies, Morgan answered in affirmation.

"Yes, I think we will. They're a strong outfit, [and] obviously have some additions, changes from the Test team - so they're not a side we take lightly," he said.

"A lot of our focus over the last couple of years has been on ourselves. I think to make that extra step, learning on from the Champions Trophy, this series for us is about producing consistent performances," Morgan concluded.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Angelina Jolie's 'First They Killed My Father' may soon be running the Academy Award race.

According to sources, the Netflix title, directed and co-written by Jolie, is expected to imminently be confirmed as the official Cambodian submission for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar, the Deadline reported.

The movie, which revolves around author and human rights activist Loung Ung's life under the rule of the deadly Khmer Rouge, premiered in Telluride and then went on to Toronto where it won strong praise.

'First They Killed My Father's selection would mark the first time such a high-profile American director has been the representative of another country in another tongue.

It would also be only the 6th submission ever from Cambodia, where the film held a premiere in February and hit the local theatres on September 8.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court on Tuesday will continue hearing of the Cauvery water dispute involving the tussle between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The apex court on July 11 commenced final hearing on the appeals filed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala against the 2007 Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) final award.

A bench of the apex court, headed by now Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, had earlier directed the Karnataka Government to provide 2000 cusecs of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu till its further order.

The top court, earlier in January, dismissed the plea seeking compensation from both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Governments for the loss of property during the Cauvery water related dispute between both the states.

Siva Kumar, a Tamil Nadu based activist, had earlier filed the petition in the apex court on the same.

On January 9, the Tamil Nadu Government sought a compensation of Rs. 2,480 crores from Karnataka for not releasing water to the state despite getting the Supreme Court directive to do so.

The lawyer from the side of Tamil Nadu, Shekhar Naphade, urged the three-judge bench to bring the matter to a logical end for which there should be a continuous hearing.

On December 9 last year, the apex court upheld its constitutional power and right to hear appeals filed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Chhattisgarh Police have gunned down two Naxals in an encounter in the Sukma district.

The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Sundarraj P., said, "It was an operation by a team of District Reserve Guard (DRG), who was out on an anti-Maoist operation last night. The encounter took place in the Rasatong jungle (between Gollapalli and Bheji of the Sukma district). We have also recovered weapons, explosive materials and wireless set after the encounter."

After the guns fell silent, the security forces searched the area and recovered - a 12 bore gun, one bharmar rifle (muzzle loading gun), a wireless set, codex wire 1.5 metre, a detonator, an electric multimeter, a radio, a couple of batteries, solar plates, solar plate, pitthu bags and some Maoist-related material from the spot.

Further details are awaited.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Congress party on Monday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should reflect on their image, if their President (Amit Shah) himself has been summoned to the court in a riot case.

"They should realize what kind of image BJP has in India if their President has to be summoned in a riots case," Congress MP Sushmita Dev told ANI.

Amit Shah today appeared before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in the 2002 Naroda Gam riots case.

The former minister of state for Women and Child Development in the Government of Gujarat, Maya Kodnani, has been accused of involvement in the Naroda Gam massacre that broke out on February 28, 2002, killing 11 Muslims.

Dev also said that BJP talks a lot about the 1984 Riots, but stays quiet about the 2002 Gujarat riots.

"They should first introspect themselves before making claims against Congress," Dev quipped.

Continuing her attack on BJP, Dev also criticised Prime Minister Modi-led government's economic policies.

"It is wrong to state that PM Modi gave economic integration to India because he has done economic disasters," Dev said, giving demonetisation, farmers, and rise in petrol prices as examples for the same.

Mocking the BJP/RSS led government, Dev said that the slogan of "Acche din" has become a joke for the poor, the farmers, and the common people.

Responding to the defamation case filed by Rashtriya Samajsevak Sangh (RSS) against claims of RSS's connection in senior journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder, Dev, "If an RSS worker has filed a defamation case against the claim that RSS is behind Gauri Lankesh's murder then the entire country would be held in the case; if RSS heeds to social media, they will find that the entire country is saying that RSS is behind her killing."

Dev further said that the Congress party is not afraid of the defamation case, adding, "It's in fact a good opportunity to bring the history of RSS- from (Nathuram) Godse to (Maya) Kodnani- in front of the judiciary."

The Congress leader also slammed the BJP government in Haryana for the delayed CBI investigation into the murder case of a student within the premises of Gurugram's Ryan International School.

Dev said that the value of an investigation becomes questionable if the crime site is not sealed and public is allowed to enter the area.

The now infamous Ryan International School reopened today, even before the CBI investigation of the school could take place.

"This issue should be taken seriously, because it creates fear among the public about the ability of government to maintain law and order," Dev added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Following the incident of rape of a five-year-old girl at Delhi's Tagore Public School, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate's report has identified six major lapses in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)-recognised school.

A minor was raped allegedly by a peon inside a classroom inside the school premises on September 9.

Revenue Minister Kailash Gahlot had directed the SDM, Vivek Vihar, to conduct an inquiry to find out whose negligence led to the unfortunate accident.

He was also directed to suggest measures to avoid such incidents in future inside the school premises.

The report of the SDM is now being forwarded to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia for his perusal and to decide the further course of action.

Following major lapses have been identified by the SDM in the functioning of the school building:

1- Unhindered access given to the accused to all the areas of school. The accused was working for the school, though formal appointment letter does not appear to have been issued by the school. The movement of the accused and other such non-teaching employees was required to be restricted so that he does not have any contact with the school children.

2- The room of the Nursery Class where the incident happened, should have been locked after the Nursery Class timings were over. Unlocked pitch-dark class room of the school facilitated the accused in his nefarious intentions;

3- Non-coverage of the whole school building under CCTV Cameras reduced the deterrence effect.

4- The accused had been working in the school for almost 2.5 years without undergoing any kind of verification and background check by the school authorities police.

5- The EDMC has not taken any action against the school for undertaking classes in un-recognised areas of school building;

6- The last Safety Audit was conducted by the School Inspector of EDMC in December 2016. However, the Safety Audit Report does not have any parameters with regard to the police verification of employees, installation of CCTV Cameras, entry/exit restrictions for unauthorised people etc.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Delhi High Court on Monday asked the Center if the Nirbhaya fund money can be used for providing facilities to trace missing children in Delhi.

The High Court asked the Centre to reply on the issue within two weeks.

"How are you using the Nirbhaya funds? Can it be used to tackle larger law and order issues such as the problem of missing kids?" asked the Delhi High Court.

The High court further asked that why the Delhi police does not have facial recognition software to trace kidnapped and missing children.

Delhi's record of tracing its missing children is the worst in the country, according to data tabled in Parliament.

According to the data, Delhi could only trace 9727 missing children in five years out to total 26761 those went missing in Delhi.

Across the country, 30% of the children remained untraceable but in Delhi - the number was the highest - 63%.

Rs. 3100 crore was collected in the Nirbhaya fund since 2013 to 2014 financial year and Rs. 2209 crore was sanctioned for projects regarding women's safety in 2014 to 2015.

Twenty-two projects were also sanctioned after recommendation by the empowered committee.

Following the 2012 brutal gang rape, Nirbhaya Fund was announced by the then Finance Minister P. Chidambaram in the 2013 budget speech, with Government contribution of Rs. 1000 crores for empowerment, safety and security of women and girl children.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Mumbai Police on Monday arrested four persons for their negligence in connection with the tragic death of renowned gastroenterologist Dr Deepak Amarapurkar, who fell into an open manhole on August 29, when heavy rain lashed the city.

The accused have been identified as Siddesh Bhelsekar, Rakesh Kadam, Nilesh Kadam and Dinaar Pawar.

They have also been charged under IPC Section 304(A), which pertains to causing death by negligence.

According to the police, four men, who live in a nearby chawl, had opened the manhole to drain out the rainwater, which was running into their homes.

They were produced before a local magistrate's court and are taken to judicial custody till September 22.

Earlier on September 1, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner ordered one-member inquiry committee to investigate into the matter.

The BMC further asked to submit the report in regard to the matter within 15 days.

The Indian Medical Association Mumbai Chapter had passed a resolution that it would file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in connection with the matter.

The IMA also held the BMC responsible for the death of Dr. Amarapurkar .

"The entire doctor community across India is quite upset over such a careless and negligent incident. There must be safety measures in place as when any manhole is opened," the Board said, in a letter to the Municipal Commissioner.

They also requested the Municipal Commissioner to investigate the entire episode and take an appropriate action to avoid such incidents in future.

Dr. Amarapurkar was a leading Gastroenterologist at the Bombay Hospital. He fell in an open manhole on the Matkar road in the Elphinston area near Dadar on Wednesday during the heavy rains.

Dr Amarapurkar's funeral was held yesterday around 4 p.m. at the Shivaji Park crematorium after an autopsy was carried out in the civic-run Sion Hospital.

Many senior doctors from Bombay Hospital, where Dr. Amarapurkar consulted as well as civic-run KEM Hospital in Parel and state-run JJ Hospital in Byculla, were present for the funeral.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Baloch activists and human rights defenders raised their voice against the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and termed it as a project of looting and plundering of natural wealth of Balochistan.

The event titled "Scaling the Abyss: CPEC, Economic Exploitation and State Oppression in Balochistan" was organised by Baloch Organization (WBO) and Unrepresented Nations & Peoples Organization (UNPO) on the sidelines of 36thSession of Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Opposing the CPEC project, the speakers said despite living in resource-rich region, the people face extreme poverty, conflict, hunger and instability due to the systematic looting of natural wealth of the province.

Balochistan, a region that spans across parts of Iran, Afghanistan and is currently Pakistan's largest and most resource rich yet least developed region.

For centuries, Pakistan's Punjabi and Chinese businessmen have been exploiting Balochistan's plentiful minerals such as copper, uranium, gold, coal, silver and platinum.

The projects have systematically excluded the Baloch indigenous people, not only depriving them of the employment and development prospects but also forcefully clearing them to make way for the construction sites.

The 1995 multi-billion dollar copper gold Saindak project, the 2002 Gwadar Port project and many other projects, which the Pakistani administration have been pushing through, with substantial financial aid from Chinese businessmen, have been displacing and marginalising Baloch people.

Balochistan is responsible for about 23 per cent of Pakistan's total gas production and astonishingly, only 6 per cent of the gas produced is actually consumed in the region itself, which the rest is consumed in other parts of Pakistan.

The speakers said alongside this wide ranging economic exploitation of the region, the Baloch suffer at the hands of the Pakistani authorities, incessantly subjected to enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions and extra judicial killings.

Shah Jahan Baloch of Baloch Organization (WBO) said, "The so called Chinese development is destroying not just the population but economy, livelihood, ecology of Balochistan."

He said that there has not been Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the CPEC that is mandatory as per the United Nations rules.

He demanded Pakistan to carry out the EIA of the CPEC and Gwadar Port.

He said that Pakistan has killed more than 8000 Balochs without any trial.

By killing innocent people how development project can be successful, he questioned.

Fernando Burges, Representative, UNPO, said that there could not be CPEC without Balochistan.

"Balochistan is the main geo-political area and the Gwadar Port is the key. When you think and look at CPEC, it goes through disputed territory so it is against the international law," Burges said.

Burges further added that, "as the CPEC ends in Gwadar, what you have there is Chinese military and Pak security agencies protecting the workers who are not Baloch. The question is that who will pay the cost. Until now, it has been Balochistan".

Gwadar Port is a deep-sea port situated on the Arabian Sea at Gwadar in Balochistan province of Pakistan. The port features prominently in the CPEC plan, and is considered to be a link between the ambitious One Belt, One Road and Maritime Silk Road projects.

Talking about the human rights violations by Pakistan in Balochistan, Burges said human rights violations are taking place indiscriminately.

China is not a champion of human rights, so it is a worst combination of States when it comes to human rights.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The 2017 Emmy Awards have begun and the first set of awards have been announced.

And the winners are...

Veteran actor John Lithgow has won the 2017 Emmy for Supporting Actor in a Drama for 'The Crown', while Laura Dern has won the trophy Supporting Actress in a Drama for her show 'Big Little Lies'.

Lithgow beat 'Better Call Saul's Jonathan Banks, 'Homeland's Mandy Patinkin, 'House of Cards' Michael Kelly, 'This Is Us' Ron Cephas Jones, 'Westworld's Jeffrey Wright and Stranger Things's David Harbour.

In his acceptance speech, Lithgow said, "Well this is fantastic. I feel so lucky to have won this in the company of my fellow nominees. You guys so many of you are my friends and former cast mates. I wish all of you congratulations. you deserve this."

Adding, "In these crazy times, in his life even as an old man reminds us what courage and leadership in government really looks like. I thank Winston Churchill, I thank the Academy and I thank all of you. This is simply wonderful."

Meanwhile, Laura Dern beat out Judy Davis from 'Feud', Jackie Hoffman from 'Feud', Regina King from 'American Crime', Michelle Pfeiffer from 'The Wizard of Lies' and co-star Shailene Woodley from 'Big Little Lies'.

While accepting the honour, she said, "I've been acting since I was 11 years old and I think I've worked with maybe 12 women. So thank you to the Academy for honoring our show. I share this with my tribe of four ladies. I feel very proud to be a part of reflecting fierce women and mothers."

In Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Kate McKinnon took home the trophy, marking her second Emmy win for the second year in a year.

McKinnon was praised particularly for her impression of Hillary Clinton.

In her acceptance speech she thanked Hillary Clinton, by saying, "Thank you to Hillary Clinton for your grace and grit."

Last year, she won the same Emmy and also thanked Clinton in her acceptance speech.

The Primetime Emmy Awards are being handed out at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Stephen Colbert is hosting the ceremony.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
"He was a great listener," said actress Mandira Bedi, niece of Marshal of Indian Air Force (IAF) Arjan Singh, on Monday, while sharing her memories with the latter.

"My greatest memory of him was that he's a great listener; he used to listen. He had so many achievements, but he never spoke about anyone. Rather what he would do is he will be interested in your life. So, he asked me the smallest things about my work, my son, my family and more," she told ANI, after the last rights ceremony of the Marshal of IAF, here at Brar Square.

Mandira, who reached Delhi, early morning on Sunday, further stated, "He lived a very beautiful and distinguished life. The farewell that he got, the way the Air Force took it over, shows how well loved, admired and respected he always was, and rather he is. One looks back at the life so well lived...yes it is a loss."

She also took to Twitter on September 16 to share her grief and posted, "Marshall of the Air Force, #ArjanSingh , my uncle, passed away this evening. A true officer and a gentleman. Will miss him dearly. #RIP"

A fly-past of Sukhoi-30 fighters and a 17-gun salute for Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh were held at his last rites ceremony at Delhi's Brar Square on Monday.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday stated that along with a state funeral and an appropriate gun salute, a fly-past may take place, depending on the weather conditions, to honour the contribution of the Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

The funeral ceremony of Arjan Singh took place in the national capital with tribute paid to the five-star rank Air Force officer with full state honours.

The national flag was flown at half-mast at all government buildings in Delhi today as a mark of tribute to Arjan Singh.

Arjan Singh's body, wrapped in the flag, was taken from his home to the Delhi Cantonment in a gun carriage at the funeral site.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the chiefs of the Air Force, the Army and the Navy paid tribute at the last rites ceremony.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh and former Army chief Dalbir Singh and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani also paid their last respects.

IAF Chief B.S. Dhanoa and Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba also paid tribute to the war hero.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the residence of Arjan Singh to express his condolences to the family.

The whole nation mourned the death of India's pride, who breathed his last on Saturday.

He was admitted to Army's Research and Referral hospital on Saturday morning after he suffered a cardiac arrest.

In praise of Arjan Singh, defence experts said that very few can equal him in stature and his contribution to the cause of the defence force as well as the country.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Two brothers of 'Kings Cross' nightclub owner John Ibrahim have been extradited from Dubai following their arrests nearly six weeks ago.

The two brothers, Michael and Fadi Ibrahim arrived in Sydney on Sunday night to face charges relating to their roles in an alleged drug and tobacco smuggling syndicate.

Michael has been charged with attempting to import a commercial quantity of drugs, and conspiracy to do the same while Fadi is accused of funding the alleged syndicate and dealing in the proceeds of crime in excess of $1 million.

The 39-year-old Micheal chose not to appear in court on Monday and did not apply for bail, and it was formally refused by the magistrate.

However his older brother Fadi, 43, was granted bail.

During his bail application, prosecutor Matthew Kalyk said he was an unacceptable risk of failing to appear or interfering with witnesses, reports The Sunday Morning Herald.

"This applicant, Mr Ibrahim, was not a passive lender ... but an active investor in his brother's operation," Kalyk said.

"It is clear the funds that were sourced from Mr Ibrahim went to assist his brother Michael financing the Dubai transaction," he added.

The raids allegedly uncovered more than 1.9 tonnes of narcotics that were to be imported to Australia, including 200 kilograms of MDMA, or ecstasy, and 80 kilograms of cocaine.

Along with the brothers, two other Australians, Mostafa Dib, 34 and Koder Jomaa, 47, were also arrested in Dubai last month after a series of raids in Australia, the United Arab Emirates and the Netherlands returned to Sydney under police escort.

The four men have been charged with a range of offences including conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of drugs, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

In August, police raided the Dover Heights home of John Ibrahim but did not charge him with an offence.

His girlfriend a nightclub owner was charged with possessing a Glock pistol after police raided her home and his son, Daniel Taylor, 26, was also charged with transferring $2.25 million to facilitate the illegal importation of tobacco.

Both his girlfriend and Taylor were released on bail later.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Minister of Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi, Minister of Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar and CBSE officials will today hold a high-level meeting to develop a set of guidelines and protocols for schools to ensure the safety and security of students.

This comes in the wake of the gruesome killing of a seven-year-old boy at the Ryan International School in Gurugram.

Taking note of the seriousness of the incidents of child abuse in schools, both the ministry had called for a meeting on September 12.

Earlier, in a telephonic discussion, Maneka requested Javadekar to consider suggestions like having women employees as the support staff and bus drivers/conductors in the schools, screening of educational films on child sexual abuse in the schools, popularising POCSO e-Box and Childline 1098 through NCERT publications and having strict norms for employing the support staff.

Maneka had also given the suggestions in her letter to the HRD Minister.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has already started its outreach campaign for protection of children through electronic as well as social media.

Maneka stated that the basic objective of the meeting of the two ministries is to develop a set of guidelines and protocols which schools must follow so that the children remain protected from any kind of abuse or physical/mental harm.

She further stated that the parents, guardians and teachers should remain vigilant about the children as well as their behaviour and any suspected situation should be reported immediately on the Childline No.1098 and the POCSO e-Box.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A fly-past of Sukhoi-30 fighters and a 17-gun salute for Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh were held at his last rites ceremony at Delhi's Brar Square on Monday.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday stated that along with a state funeral and an appropriate gun salute, a fly-past may take place, depending on the weather conditions, to honour the contribution of the Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

The funeral ceremony of Arjan Singh took place in the capital with tribute paid to the five-star rank Air Force officer with full state honours.

The flag was flown at half-mast at all government buildings in Delhi today as a mark of tribute to Arjan Singh.

Arjan Singh's body, wrapped in the flag, was taken from his home to the Delhi Cantonment in a gun carriage at the funeral site.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the chiefs of the Air Force, the Army and the Navy paid tribute at the last rites ceremony.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh and former Army chief Dalbir Singh and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani also paid their last respects.

IAF Chief B.S. Dhanoa and Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba also paid tribute to the war hero.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the residence of Arjan Singh to express his condolences to the family.

The whole nation mourned the death of India's pride, who breathed his last on Saturday.

He was admitted to Army's Research and Referral hospital on Saturday morning after he suffered a cardiac arrest.

In praise of Arjan Singh, defence experts said that very few can equal him in stature and his contribution to the cause of the defence force as well as the country.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A minor was allegedly gangraped by the school director and a teacher in Rajasthan's Sikar district, in yet another case of sexual violence.

The incident took place at the Janata Baal Niketan school, located in the Ajeetgarh village of Sikar district.

The Std. XII student, who became pregnant after she was allegedly gangraped in frequent intervals, was later forced by both accused Jagdish and Jagat to undergo abortion.

Thereafter, the victim was referred to Jaipur due to excessive bleeding.

A case has been registered against them. Both the culprits are on the run.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Appearing before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case on Monday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said that Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam on the day the riots broke out.

"Maya Kodnani was present at the Assembly on February 28, 2002, at 8:30 a.m. along with other members to pay tribute to those who had died in the Godhra rail incident," said Shah, and further stated that he had also seen her later at the Sola Civil Hospital around 11:00 a.m.

A day before the Naroda Gam riots, Sabarmati Express was allegedly torched at the Godhra railway station.

"From 9:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., I was at the Sola Civil Hospital, and I remember seeing Jaideep Patel and other leaders. I met Maya Kodnani, while leaving the hospital around 11:00-11:30 a.m. The enraged public had surrounded us, so the police cordoned both of us out in the same jeep," Shah said.

He also said that he learnt about the Godhra incident when the home minister announced it in the assembly.

Regarding the notification issued by Special Investigation Team (SIT) asking witnesses to come out and give their statement, Shah said, "I neither received any summons, nor was asked by SIT if I was present with Maya on the day of the incident."

However, he also admitted that he was aware of SIT's public notification.

Meanwhile, Shamshad Pathan, the advocate arguing against Maya Kodnani questioned why the BJP president remained silent in these nine years when he knew about the notification.

"The SIT had sent a notification in the public domain that if anybody having right information regarding the case can approach the SIT. He knew about the notification but never approached the SIT in these 9 years," Pathan told media, after session at the court ended.

He also pointed out a loophole in Shah's statement during the cross examination.

According to Pathan, Amit Shah claimed to have seen Kodnani at the Assembly at 8:30 a.m. and then at the Sola Civil Hospital around 11:00 a.m. which indicates that he doesn't know where she was after leaving assembly and before arriving at the hospital.

"Maya had said that she went to her clinic in her own car after leaving the Sola Civil hospital, which contradicts with Shah's statement that both were cordoned out in a police jeep," added Pathan.

He also said that most of the witnesses of Maya Kodnani are proving to have given false statements.

The former minister of state for Women and Child Development in the Government of Gujarat, Maya Kodnani, has been accused of involvement in the Naroda Gam riots that broke out on February 28, 2002, killing 11 Muslims.

In her defence, Kodnani had stated that she was not present in Naroda Gam when the riots broke out.

Kodnani has also been sentenced to life imprisonment in the Naroda Patiya massacre case wherein 97 Muslims were killed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam on Monday said that they made a few proposals to Myanmar over the Rohingya crisis, but did not get any favourable response.

He also thanked all the friendly countries for coming forward and supporting them in the time of humanitarian crisis.

"We made a few proposals to Myanmar over the Rohingya crisis, but haven't got any favourable response," Alam said.

However, he also mentioned that Bangladesh is not depending on anyone's aid.

"It's good that eight to nine countries have come forward for our support. The Bangladesh Prime Minister has said we will share whatever resources we have with the Rohingya refugees," he said.

"It's a security threat. We have had incidents in the past, that is why we are mindful."

"We are registering the Rohingya population as you know for the first time and the work has begun a week ago and we have ordered the law enforcement agencies and the local administration that the Rohingya population should not go outside of the designated area within the Cox' bazaar district," he said.

According to the minister, a total of around 8,00,000 refugees have taken shelter in Bangladesh since October 9, 2016, following an outbreak of violence in the Rakhine State of Myanmar.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shiekh Hasina on Saturday left for New York to attend the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where she will be raising the issue of Rohingya crisis.

She will also make a formal proposal at the upcoming session for an early implementation of recommendations by the Kofi Annan-led Commission.

The Advisory Commission recommended that the Myanmar Government take concrete steps to end the enforced segregation of Rakhine Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims; ensure full and unfettered humanitarian access throughout the state; tackle Rohingya statelessness and "revisit" the 1982 Citizenship Law; hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable; and end restrictions on freedom of movement, among other recommendations.

She will be addressing the UNGA on September 21.

Hasina will also urge the leaders to play an effective role in stopping the genocide of the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar.

The Rohingya Muslims, who have taken refuge in Cox's Bazar and Teknaf border areas in Bangladesh after they fled the barbarous persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine state, are now suffering due to an absence of food, shelters, medicines, sanitation facilities and clean water.

The United Nations refugee agency, the UNHCR, said around 4,00,000 refugees have fled from the violence-affected Myanmar's Northern Rakhine state and sought refuge in Bangladesh, where the limited shelter capacity is already exhausted.

Many of over 3,50,000 refugees, staying either under open sky or at the new refugee camps and shelters, are suffering from diarrhea and different diseases and don't have an access to even clean drinking water and proper medicines.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In line with the United Nation's theme for this year's World Tourism Day, app-based transport aggregator Ola announced its partnership with seven prominent State Tourism Departments and Corporations to promote 'responsible tourism'.

To raise awareness about responsible tourism and promote road travel to lesser-known locales across the country, Ola roped in popular VJ-turned-actor, model, writer, and travel vlogger Shenaz Treasury for a seven-state, 12-day and 21 location expedition across India with Ola Outstation.

Tourism as a sector is rapidly growing in India, accounting for nearly 10 percent of the country's GDP (in 2016). As the number of visitors grow each year, both domestic and international, it is vital to invest in responsible tourism activities that will go a long way in protecting and conserving India's vibrant cultural heritage present in every corner of the country.

Fostering an ecosystem that enables a deep-dive into local culture and experience is also, important to promote the growth of the sector. Solutions like Ola Outstation, a smart mobility solution for inter-city travel are tailor-made to enable convenient and affordable road transport to deep corners of the country, ensuring a truly unique and unforgettable experience for domestic and international tourists alike.

Ola's campaign was flagged off by Priyank M. Kharge, Minister of State for Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Tourism, Government of Karnataka from Bengaluru's Vidhana Soudha. On September 16, Shenaz hit the road starting from Karnataka, traveling across six other states, to conclude in Mumbai after 12 days.

In this journey, she will be discovering architectural marvels and locales in Aihole, Gandikota, Kalakho, Samode, Kumarakom, Majauli, and many more on the way.

"The Ola Outstation category is second only to the Indian Railways in terms of network and connects over 100 cities and towns across the country, giving a much needed impetus to tourism. Given the deep economic as well as the social and cultural impact that tourism brings, it becomes extremely important to promote responsible tourism. With Ola Outstation, our intention is to encourage tourism in a manner that is respectful of local culture and sentiment, environment-friendly, and aids in promoting local economy," said Pranay Jivrajka, Founding Partner, Ola.

"I have travelled across several countries and continents, but India holds a special place in my heart since every single state has something unique to offer. Being a passionate traveller, I strongly feel that the preservation of our natural and cultural heritage across the country is facing a grave threat. There is now a need more than ever for us to travel consciously, respectfully, and responsibly. From avoiding littering to encouraging local economy, there is a lot each one of us can do that will go a long way in keeping the country's cultural legacy intact. I am thrilled to partner with Ola, be the flag-bearer of this message, and embark on what I am certain, will be an exciting journey of exploring India by road with Ola Outstation," added Shenaz.

Ola has joined forces with Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Kerala Tourism Department, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL), Rajasthan Tourism Department, Assam Tourism Department, and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC).

Ola Outstation connects over 1000 cities and towns across the country, comes with the best fleet of cars and, trained, verified, and top rated driver partners. To ensure that the customer enjoys a smooth and comfortable on-road experience, every cab on the Outstation category goes through stringent checks. With over 500 one-way trips enabled and services live in 80 cities already, the category is set to grow substantially over the next few months.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Jose Mourinho believes star striker Wayne Rooney will one day return to Manchester United.

Rooney's return to Old Trafford ended in a dismal defeat as Manchester United thrashed Everton 4-0 to move joint top of the Premier League on Sunday evening.

The former England skipper returned to his former ground with Everton in his first appearance against United, with whom he spent a successful 13 years, since re-joining his boyhood club in July.

Rooney, who was substituted with eight minutes remaining when the deficit was just one, was afforded a huge ovation by the home supporters.

Mourinho insisted that he was not surprised to see the forward receiving a warm welcome at the Old Trafford by the club's fans.

"It is the nature of English fans and big clubs when a player is big in the club and has an important part of the club's history," goal.com quoted the United boss as saying.

"He is at home and one day I believe he will be back home," he added.

Rooney scored 253 goals for United in his 13 years at the club.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
ONGC Videsh Limited announced that the Consortium partners of the giant ACG Fields in Azerbaijan have entered into an agreement with Azerbaijan Government and State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) for extension of duration of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for Azeri-Chirag-Deep water portion of Gunashli (ACG) oil fields until December 31, 2049.

ONGC Videsh Limited, the subsidiary of the Indian flagship Oil and natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) holds a participating interest in ACG oil fields in the Azerbaijan Sector of Caspian Sea. The other partners in the Consortium are BP, Chevron, INPEX, Statoil, ExxonMobil, TPAO and ITOCHU. The agreement is subject to ratification by the Parliament (Milli Majlis) of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The agreement was signed in Baku on September 14, 2017 in the presence of H.E. President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan and a group of visiting senior government and state officials, by Rovnag Abdullayev, President of SOCAR, on behalf of the Azerbaijan Government, and by the representatives of the co-venture companies, including ONGC Videsh Limited. Ambassador of India to Azerbaijan Mr. Sanjay Rana was also present in the signing ceremony.

As part of the agreement, the international co-venturers will pay a bonus of $3.6 billion to the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and SOCAR will increase its equity share in the ACG PSA from 11.65 per cent to 25 per cent. Following completion of the agreement, the new ACG participating interests will be: BP, 30.37 percent; AzACG (SOCAR), 25.00 per cent; Chevron, 9.57 per cent; INPEX, 9.31 per cent; Statoil, 7.27 per cent; ExxonMobil, 6.79 per cent; TPAO, 5.73 per cent; ITOCHU, 3.65 per cent; and ONGC Videsh Limited, 2.31 percent. ONGC Videsh's share of the total bonus payments is about USD111 million.

The ACG oil fields are located in the Caspian Sea, approximately 100 kilometers east of Baku, the capital of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The ACG oil fields currently produce crude oil at a rate of approximately 585,000 barrels per day (average rate for first half of 2017) from three oil fields (Azeri Oil Field, Chirag Oil Field and Deep water portion of Gunashli Oil Field). Crude oil produced at the ACG oil fields is transported through theBaku-Tbilisi- Ceyhan pipeline (BTC pipeline) to Ceyhan on the Mediterranean coast of the Republic of Turkey, from where it is shipped to customers.

The existing ACG PSA was signed on 20 th September 1994 for thirty years. There is substantial amount of remaining oil and gas in the field and the PSA extension will benefit Azerbaijan and partners through sustained long term production. ONGC Videsh had acquired 2.7213% participating interest in the ACG PSA and 2.36% in BTC Pipeline from Hess Corporation on 28 th March, 2013.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a surprising admission, Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said that the bombers,who killed more than 90 people in the attack in Kabul in May, might have come from Pakistan.

"I don't know all the details, but it seems three or four people crossed over the border. There was a vehicle which travelled from that area to Kabul and was parked in an embassy compound before it blew up," he said.

"We have 2,50,000 troops fighting there, but we don't have control of the full area. [Militants] often cross the border from the other side and attack our people. If the Afghan army cannot control them, and U.S. forces cannot control them, what are we supposed to do?" the Financial Times quoted Abbasi, as saying.

Abbasi further threatened the United States of discontinuing with the U.S. as supplier of military aircraft to apply pressure on its ally.

However, Pakistan currently buys F-16 fighter jets, which are made by American company Lockheed Martin and have become the mainstay of the Pakistani air force.

"We would like to buy more F-16s, but we do have other options," Abbasi said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has decided to bring a tough foreign policy for the United States, if Islamabad's ally stature is lowered by Washington.

The Pakistan Government has prepared a three-option policy, apparently 'the toughest diplomatic policy' against the U.S. sanctions on the country, the Express Tribune reported.

The official sources have said that the policy includes gradual decline in diplomatic relations with the U.S., limiting mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in the U.S. strategy for Afghanistan.

Moreover, the last option may include a complete ban on using Pakistan land of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) supplies to Afghanistan.

However, it will only be implemented after the approval of Pakistan's National Security Committe and keeping in view Trump's policy for Pakistan.

While announcing his strategy for Afghanistan, Trump had earlier slammed Pakistan for providing safe havens to Afghan jihadis, including the Haqqani network.

Trump said, "Pakistan has much to lose by continuing to harbour terrorists. No partnership can survive with the harbouring of militants."

The U.S. President also pledged to use a variety of diplomatic, military and economic tools to combat terrorism.

Earlier, U.S. Senator John McCain had issued a stern warning to Pakistan's civilian and military leaders to act against the Haqqani network if Islamabad intends to remain a close ally of Washington. Senator McCain's statement showed that the Trump administration is considering to impose sanctions on Pakistan if Islamabad continues to support the Haqqani network and other terror groups.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday categorically stated that the answer to the growing fuel prices lie in bringing petroleum products under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.

Speaking to ANI, he said, "The only solution to it is GST, which should cover all petroleum products. We are sincerely appealing to the state government and GST council to look into this issue. Petrol and diesel should come under GST in that way the infirmity of tax should be equally shared. Also this will help with tax predictability".

This statement came a day after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley pointed out saying, "In Delhi, the petrol price is Rs. 70 a litre whereas in Mumbai it is Rs. 80. It could be as low as Rs. 38.10 in both the cities if it were under the GST regime attracting a 12 percent tax".

Union Minister also asserted that the rise in prices of petrol was due to several factors.

As of now, petrol prices contain other elements like Centre-imposed excise duty, state-imposed VAT and dealer's commission. So if fuel is brought under GST, petrol price can come down to Rs. 38 per litre from Rs. 70 at 12 percent GST.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs on Monday said that the sealing of the Indian border with Pakistan using smart technology-aided fence will be in place by December next year.

Speaking about smart fencing, Mr. Rijiju said that engagement of multiple agencies in border management was resulting in delay of implementation of policies and adoption of technology.

Citing an example of delay in processes, Mr. Rijiju said that when a full-body scanner had to be installed, the tedious tender process and other formalities caused unwarranted delays and there was a need to address such issues immediately.

Speaking at the second edition of 'Smart Border Management' conference organized by FICCI in association with India Foundation, the Minister stressed on the need for enhanced coordination and collaboration among diverse government agencies and stakeholders besides adoption of technology and change in the mindset for stepping up India's border management system.

Alluding to the under-developed border security, the Minister said that "Other countries exhibit their might by projecting their border areas as active by settling civilians and engaging them in trade and commercial activities. Border areas of these countries are well-connected, complete with basic amenities and telecom services, whereas, India has isolated its border areas, and restricted civilian movement and commerce".

He said it was imperative that border areas were as developed as the hinterland of the nation and this needed a rational outlook.

On marine police, the Minister said that the government was working towards strengthening marine police to secure India's long coastal borders. He added that to make India's border management system robust, secure and well-guarded, it was essential to have seamless coordination between policy makers and defence and security agencies.

"Though the government is working towards improving security and infrastructure in border areas, still some sections of border communities are dependent on infrastructure of neighboring countries," Rijiju said.

The Minister said that security cannot be compromised at any cost and it was essential to develop border and coastal areas and connect them to the hinterland.

He also highlighted the fact that India believes that borders were not for dividing people but for bringing them together and engaging in trade and commercial activities for bringing prosperity.

The Minister also released the FICCI-PwC Report 'Smart Border Management -Indian Coastal & Maritime Security' on the occasion.

Dr. Subhash Bhamre, Minister of State for Defence, said that varying challenges were posed by each border state in India. The major challenges in border security were cross-border terrorism, insurgency, infiltration, narcotics, separatists' movement and smuggling.

"There was a need for coordinated and concerted efforts to strengthen policing and guarding of border areas while developing infrastructure. He added that power of technology was needed to be leveraged for effective border management system," said Bhamre.

Speaking about Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), which has been deployed by the Government on a pilot basis on select terrains to boost India's security systems, K. K. Sharma, Director General, Border Security Force (BSF), said that the main components of the system were virtual fencing, command and control system, response mechanism, power-backup, maintenance and training. He added with the adoption of CIBMS, India was looking at moving towards network-centric surveillance from human-centric to counter the limitations of human resource. He added adoption of advanced technology and reduced human resource intervention was needed to strengthen India's defence systems.

"Smart borders on one hand should allow seamless movement of authorized people and goods, while on the other, minimise cross-border security challenges using innovation and technology enablement, said Rajan Luthra, Co-Chair, FICCI Committee on Homeland Security & Head-Special Projects, Chairman's Office, Reliance Industries Ltd. in the conference. He added that over the long term, smart border management will also have to incorporate systems that digitally monitor patterns of activity through and around border areas to root out organised crime and anti- events.

The FICCI-PwC report elucidates the present status of various programmes that have been undertaken by the government, both in central and coastal states. In his theme presentation, Dhiraj Mathur, Partner & Leader, Aerospace and Defence, PwC India, said that, "It highlights the efforts required for enhancing costal and maritime security with support from industry, especially on the technology, infrastructure and capacity building fronts, and for building an integrated and collaborative coastal and maritime security management framework.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The celebs are ready to turn the heat up at the Red carpet for the 2017 Primetime Emmy Awards and thanks to social media the fans are getting a little extra from their favourite stars.

The celebs took to their Twitter and Instagram handles to share their excitement for the star studded ceremony.

Here are some BTS moments from the biggest celebs accounts:

Reese Witherspoon, who is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series, took to Twitter and wrote, "Who's excited for the #Emmys?! #EmmyPrep #WeekendFun (@DraperJames)"

"Getting ready with @lindahaymakeup and @hairbylorenzomartin #emmys2017," tweeted supermodel Heidi Klum.

Emmy-award winning actress Uzo Aduba, shared a video on Instagram and captioned it as, "It's that time, ladies and gentlemen! Follow me as I get ready for the big show! #emmys @janicekinjo @naivashaintl @cristinaehrlich @kevinmichaelericson."

Felicity Huffman, who is nominated in Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie category, she wrote, "Almost ready. Here's a sneak peek from earlier this week. What do you guys think? #emmys."

The 69th annual primetime Emmy awards, emceed by 'The Late Show' host Stephen Colbert, is getting ready to begin at the Microsoft Theater at L.A.

Leading the pack this year is HBO's 'Westworld' and NBC's 'Saturday Night Live', which garnered 22 nominations each.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Monday lashed out at the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker, P. Dhanapal, for disqualifying 18 All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) MLAs for supporting sidelined party leader T.T.V. Dinakaran and said he has committed an illegality by doing so.

The BJP leader further expressed surprise over the move and said a typical cinema culture has pervaded Tamil Nadu.

"He (Tamil Nadu Speaker) suspended them according to which law? I am surprised the speaker has disregarded the Supreme Court judgements and the basic principles of criminal law. The criminal law requires some offence to be committed. What offence they have committed? They have only said that they will vote against Edappadi K. Palanisamy, how does it warrant disqualification?," Swamy told ANI.

He further said that there are constitutional principles and procedures on the basis of which disqualification can be done.

"There are only two conditions under which disqualifications take place. First condition is that you have voluntarily written to the speaker that you are leaving the party. Second condition is when you have violated the three line whip. Which three line whip have they violated?," he added.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker earlier in the day disqualified 18 AIADMK MLAs, who had been backing Dinakaran.

The MLAs have been disqualified with effect from today, under the 1986 Tamil Nadu Assembly Members Party Defection Law.

The disqualified MLAs include Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P. Vetrivel and K. Mariappan.

The Dinakaran faction had earlier met the officials from the Election Commission and requested them to declare the recently-conducted general council meeting of the party null and void.

Vijila Sathyananth, of the Dinakaran faction, told the media here that the faction would soon hold a general council meet of the party after the consent of their general secretary - V.K. Sasikala.

The faction also moved the Madras High Court on plea over a floor test in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

The AIADMK, in its general council meeting, had passed a resolution, according to which jailed party general secretary V.K. Sasikala stood expelled from the party and the post of the temporary general secretary forfeited.

The resolution further said that the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, E. Palanisamy and his deputy, O. Panneerselvam, shall retrieve the party and its symbol.

Other terms of the resolution state that all announcements by T.T.V. Dinakaran stand cancelled.

Tamil Nadu's leader of opposition M.K. Stalin also said that he had moved the Madras High Court because Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao did not take due cognisance of his request of conducting a floor test in state assembly.

Stalin said he had asserted earlier that he will approach the court if Rao fails to address his concerns.

The DMK leader demanded an immediate floor test from the Governor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New York on Monday and discussed the issue of ongoing Rohingya crisis.

According to sources, the two leaders also discussed nuances of Indian operation 'Insaniyat'.

India had launched 'Operation Insaniyat' to extend assistance to Dhaka, in response to the humanitarian crisis being faced on account of the large influx of refugees into Bangladesh.

India has always responded readily and swiftly to any crisis in Bangladesh.

Earlier in the day, Swaraj held various bilateral meetings in the day.

Today she held talks with her United Arab Emirates' (UAE) counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and her Tunisian counterpart Khemaies Jhinaoui here.

She also held a ministerial trilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of State, Rex W. Tillerson, and Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Taro Kono and discussed connectivity and proliferation issues.

The ministers emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.

They also discussed the importance of prudent financing. Respect for sovereignity and territorial integrity was underlined.

The three ministers also directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation.

Later in the day, Swaraj will be taking part in a meeting, chaired by Trump, to discuss terrorism, on the sidelines of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly.

India will be supporting broad reform initiatives by Trump and Secretary General of United Nations aiming to increase efficiency, transparency, greater accountability, effectiveness and economise.

The initiatives are related to overall reforms of the U.N., including the Security Council reforms.

Swaraj, will also take up the issues of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, climate change, and other peace-keeping issues in the United Nation General Assembly.

The Indian foreign minister arrived in New York on Sunday for seven days of back-to-back engagements centering around the U.N. General Assembly, including her first meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Conclusively, Sushma Swaraj is set to have several bilateral meetings and multilateral commitments, apart from speaking at the U.N. general debate on September 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held bilateral talks with her United Arab Emirates' (UAE) counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in New York on Monday.

Earlier, she also met with Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics.

Swaraj, also held bilateral meetings with Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and her Tunisian counterpart Khemaies Jhinaoui in New York on Monday.

"Such a pleasure meeting H.E @SushmaSwaraj ji, External Affairs Minister of India. We discussed wide range of bilateral cooperation," Bhutan Prime Minister Tobgay said in a tweeted.

"#EAM@UNGA Stregthening traditionally unique bilateral relations.EAM @SushmaSwaraj meets with Bhutanese PM @tsheringtobgay in New York," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

"#EAM@UNGA. Starting the business of bilateral with an African friend. EAM @SushmaSwaraj meets the Tunisian FM Khemaies Jhinaoui," Kumar said in another tweet.

Earlier, Swaraj held a ministerial trilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of State, Rex W. Tillerson, and Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Taro Kono on Monday and discussed connectivity and proliferation issues.

In the meeting, the leaders of three nations exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

The ministers emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.

They also discussed on connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally-recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignity and territorial integrity was underlined.

On the North Korean nuclear crisis, Sushma Swarajdeplored their recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable.

The three ministers also directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation.

Swaraj will be taking part in a meeting, chaired by Trump, to discuss terrorism, on the sidelines of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly.

India will be supporting broad reform initiatives by Trump and Secretary General of United Nations aiming to increase efficiency, transparency, greater accountability, effectiveness and economise.

The initiatives are related to overall reforms of the U.N., including the Security Council reforms, which India has been asking for long time to strengthen objective of the U.N. Charter.

Swaraj, will also take up the issues of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, reforms in the U.N., climate change, and other peace-keeping issues in the United Nation General Assembly.

The Indian foreign minister arrived in New York on Sunday for seven days of back-to-back engagements centring around the U.N. General Assembly, including her first meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Conclusively, Sushma Swaraj is set to have several bilateral meetings and multilateral commitments, apart from speaking at the U.N. general debate on September 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
North Korea's brazen and defiant nuclear tests last week have been keeping the leadership in United States up at night, but, a former senator, Larry Pressler, in an opinion piece for The Hill, has said that Pakistan's unsecured nuclear weapons programme is even more dangerous and should keep all of us up at night.

"A small group of terrorists buys a nuclear weapon from Pakistani generals with dark money and transports it to the port of Karachi in a pickup truck. From there, the weapon is hidden in a crate, cushioned amongst textiles and agricultural products, and loaded onto a container ship bound for the United States, where it could very easily destroy one of our cities. This operation could be carried out by a fairly small number of terrorists. This scenario is a disaster waiting to happen because Pakistan continues to harbor some of the most hardened Islamic militants and terrorists within its borders and because the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons is suspect, even though Pakistani leaders insist their program is safeguarded. The dangers of their nuclear weapons program are many: they are routinely moved around the country over dangerous and treacherous roads in unmarked vehicles with few defenses," Pressler writes.

The former senate then goes ahead to castigate Pakistan and says, "Pakistan's leaders have essentially blackmailed us into providing aid for the War on Terror with threats to cease assistance in rooting out terrorists in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, we know full well that Pakistan allows terrorists to operate unfettered in large swaths of its southwestern province of Baluchistan and their potential access to Pakistan's nuclear weapons should keep us all up at night."

Larry Pressler has served three terms as U.S. senator from South Dakota and is the author of the newly published book - 'Neighbours in Arms: An American Senator's Quest for Disarmament in a Nuclear Subcontinent.'

He reiterates what he has written in his book, citing, "Pakistan should be treated like North Korea, like a rogue state. The only reason Pakistan is not a totally failed state is that countries like China and the United States continue to prop it up with massive amounts of foreign aid. Unless Pakistan changes its ways with respect to terrorism, it should be declared a terrorist state. Indeed, the first Bush administration seriously considered doing so in 1992.'

The former senate asserts that "Pakistan's leaders have essentially blackmailed us into providing aid for the War on Terror with threats to cease assistance in rooting out terrorists in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, we know full well that Pakistan allows terrorists to operate unfettered in large swaths of its southwestern province of Baluchistan and their potential access to Pakistan's nuclear weapons should keep us all up at night."

Pressler further says that the "fundamental shift in foreign policy towards Pakistan that appears to be underway" is necessary because "Pakistan will only respond to punitive action that hits where it hurts: in their pocketbooks."

"I agree with Trump, but I would press for an even closer relationship with India. We must not equivocate. We must decisively choose India as our nation's most favored ally in the world, on a par with the special relationships we have with Israel and the United Kingdom. Oddly enough, the election of Trump as president might be the best thing for the relationship between the world's two largest democracies," he concludes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Baloch Organisation (WBO) organised a protest in front of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva to raise awareness for human rights violations in Balochistan.

Human rights activists, Baloch representatives and allies of the Baloch cause came together during the 36th Session of the UNHRC to protest against the gross human rights violations inflicted upon the indigenous Baloch people.

The protestors voiced their discontent of the general human rights situation in Balochistan and the amplification of these violations since the ruthless implementation of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Since the construction of CPEC has begun, Baloch people have been forcefully cleared, enforcedly disappeared and effectively excluded from the project on all levels - despite plentiful promises made by the Pakistani authorities of development and employment. Any form of dissent against the project has been brutally silenced, showing the respective authorities dedication to go forth with the construction undisturbed.

Standing beside the significant Broken Chair Monument at the United Nations Human Rights Council, the protest successfully raised awareness for the rampant human rights violations in Balochistan and systemic marginalisation and oppression of the Baloch people.

"Our aim is to raise voice against human right violation in Pakistan, our aim is to raise voice against military operation in Balochistan and there is a China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project which is against the will of Baloch people, so that's why we are protesting here to highlight human right violation in Balochistan," Shahjan Baloch, Baloch human rights activist, told ANI.

Asserting that Pakistan was violating basic fundamental human right of excess to justice, Shahjan alleged that Baloch people who are arrested in Pakistan are not being given excess to judiciary as they not being produced in the court as per the law.

Shahjan further said the reality in Balochistan is different than what is being portrayed by media as indigenous communities in the region have no access to clean drinking water.

"Protest like this will bring these causes to the public's attention and to understand that the indigeneous people of Baloch are suffering due to implementation of CPEC project," Nicoletta Enria, project officer, Unrepresented Nations & Peoples Organization (UNPO) told ANI.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
FICCI and NASSCOM had jointly commissioned a report 'Future of Skills and Jobs in India'. The report provides a sneak-peak into the future of jobs and vision of change for the job market in India by 2022. The report highlights the impact that various primary forces such as globalization, demographics, and Industry 4.0/exponential technologies, are expected to have on the key sectors of the economy. It also provides an overview of the job creation rates across various sectors and the new jobs that will emerge in the next few years.

The internet and exponential technologies are creating new employment opportunities in the areas of 'white-collar' working also known as gig economy (includes online labour - software developers, creative and multimedia professionals, online sales and marketing professionals, writers, translators and data entry operators) and India is the leading country, with a 24% share of the online labor market. Other areas of job opportunities include technology aggregator models, e-commerce segment and tech start-ups with new business models.

In India, the future of jobs in 2022 would be determined by the country's response to 12 megatrends which includes, under globalization - the level of exports, rapid adoption of exponential technologies, increasing/shrinking overseas job market for Indian workforce and level of FDI flows. Under adoption of exponential technologies by Indian companies - evolution of products/services into smart connected products and services, acceleration of the optimization of industry value chains, business innovation, demand for a resourceful planet and sustainability and new work arrangements. Lastly, under demographic changes - rising size of the middle-class, high proportion of young population including millennial and increasing urbanization.

As per the report, in the organized IT/BPM sector, 60-65% of the workforce would be deployed in jobs that have radically changed skill sets (projected for 2020) and some examples of the future job roles in the IT/BPM sector includes VFX Artist, Computer Vision Engineer, Wireless Network Specialist, Embedded System Programmer, Data Scientist, Data Architect, AI Research Scientist to name a few. Similarly in automotive sector, 50-55% of the workforce would be deployed in jobs that have radically changed skill sets (projected for 2020) and the evolving job roles include Automobile Analytics Engineer, 3D Printing Technician, Machine Learning Based, Vehicle Cybersecurity Expert, and Sustainability Integration Expert.

Such new jobs roles are also expected in the Textile & Apparel, BFSI and Retail sector.

Dr. Sanjaya Baru, Secretary General,FICCI, said, Since there is no India based empirical study which highlights the impact of advanced technologies on key manufacturing and services sectors that create the bulk of jobs and contributes majorly towards GDP, FICCI and NASSCOM initiated the study on 'Future of Jobs' with EY. The report examines the global megatrends, its impact on Indian economy and recommends the way forward.

Mr. Mohandas Pai, Chairman, FICCI Skill Development Committee & Chairman Manipal Global Education, said that there was an urgent need to collate and analyze data to understand in which sectors jobs were being created, what were the skills that were needed by industries and employers, and how productivity could be enhanced with re-skilling of workforce.

Mr. R. Chandrashekhar, NASSCOM, said, The report attempts to present a 2022 picture - a time when no one can afford to rest on one's laurels but needs a continuous learning culture. Another important fact being seen is that non-tech firms are increasingly emerging as the source of information technology roles; for eg. automotive, aerospace, BFSI, telecom, retail, healthcare, etc.

Mr. Arunkumar Pillai, Partner - Skill Development, GPS, EY, said, Today, there is pressing need to incentivize industries that are manpower intensive and have high employment elasticity. Leveraging the window available in the next three years will enable the Government to undertake large scale reforms in the education and training sector to ensure that the supply of an Industry 4.0 compliant workforce is readily available.

Powered by Capital Market - Live News

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Shares of Dixon Technologies (India) will be listed on the bourses today, 18 September 2017. The initial public offer (IPO) of Dixon Technologies (India) received bids for 28 crore shares compared with 23.76 lakh shares on offer, data on NSE showed. The IPO was subscribed 117.83 times. The price band for the IPO was fixed at Rs 1,760-1,766 per share. The IPO opened for bidding on 6 September 2017 and closed on 8 September 2017.

Category wise, the qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) category was subscribed 134.66 times. The non institutional investors (NIIs) category was subscribed 354.61 times. The retail individual investors (RIIs) category was subscribed 10.60 times.

Shares of Bharat Road Network will be listed on the bourses today, 18 September 2017. The initial public offer (IPO) of Bharat Road Network received bids for 5.30 crore shares compared with 2.93 crore shares, data on NSE showed. The IPO was subscribed 1.81 times. The price band for the IPO was fixed at Rs 195-205 per share. The issue had opened for bidding on 6 September 2017 and closed on 8 September 2017.

Category wise, the qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) category was subscribed 1.33 times. The non institutional investors (NIIs) category was subscribed 1.63 times. The retail individual investors (RIIs) category was subscribed 5.69 times.

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories said that the audit of API Mirfield plant, United Kingdom, by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) was completed on Friday, 15 September 2017. The company has been issued a form 483 with three observations which it is addressing, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories said. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 15 September 2017.

Wipro announced plans to deliver the Wipro BoundaryLess Data Center (BLDC) solution built on Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) ProLiant for Microsoft Azure Stack to help customers expand their infrastructure capabilities beyond the traditional walls of the enterprise datacenter. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 15 September 2017.

V-Mart Retail said that it has opened a new fashion store in West Bengal. With this, the tally of stores in West Bengal is 1 composite and 4 fashion stores. This takes the total number of stores to 154 stores in 131 cities across 14 states, with 37 composite stores and 117 fashion stores with a total area of about 13 lakhs square feet. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 September 2017.

Asian Granito India said that the company has launched its new product range of GVT in Grestek with brand name MARBLEX in size of 1200 x1200mm, 1200x2400mm with all new latest technology and High end finishing, and all new range of GVT tiles with brand name 'Platina' an exclusive new designs in our all ready famous range of Marvel. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 September 2017.

Gujarat Industries Power Company said that it has successfully commissioned 80 MW (2 x 40 MW) PV Solar Power Projects at Gujarat Solar Park, Charanka, District Patan under National Solar Mission (NSM), Phase- II, Batch - IV, Tranche -I, in phased manner on 14 September 2017. The announcement was made on Saturday, 16 September 2017.

Powered by Capital Market - Live News

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Nucleus Software Exports gained 4.33% to Rs 312 at 11:11 IST on BSE after the company announced that Atlas Finance, a micro-finance company in South Africa, has chosen its product to make faster, more informed lending decision.

The announcement was made during market hours today, 18 September 2017.

The stock has gained 7.23% in three sessions to its ruling price, from a close of Rs 290.95 on 13 September 2017.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 208.74 points, or 0.65% to 32,481.35. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was up 175.93 points, or 1.05% to 16,863.69.

More than usual volumes were witnessed on the counter. On the BSE, 28,107 shares were traded in the counter so far, compared with average daily volumes of 4,438 shares in the past one quarter. The stock had hit a high of Rs 322 and a low of Rs 303 so far during the day. The stock hit a 52-week high of Rs 343.90 on 22 May 2017. The stock had hit a 52-week low of Rs 171 on 29 September 2016.

The stock had outperformed the market over the past one month till 15 September 2017, gaining 6.82% compared with the 2.62% gains in the Sensex. The scrip had, however, underperformed the market in past one quarter, falling 10.94% as against Sensex's 3.85% gains. The stock had, however, outperformed the market over the past one year, gaining 61.17% compared with the 13.58% gains in the Sensex.

The small-cap company has equity capital of Rs 32.38 crore. Face value per share is Rs 10.

Nucleus Software Exports announced that the Atlas Finance, a micro-finance company in South Africa, has chosen Nucleus Lending Analytics to help them leverage the insights provided by their data to make faster, more informed lending decisions.

Nucleus Software Exports' consolidated net profit fell 43.57% to Rs 11.51 crore on 0.67% rise in net sales to Rs 94.32 crore in Q1 June 2017 over Q4 March 2017.

Nucleus Software Exports is the leading provider of lending and transaction banking products to the global financial services industry.

Powered by Capital Market - Live News

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh operationalised the New Intelligence Set-up of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). This marked the culmination of a long pending aspiration of the Force following approval of the Union Home Minister.

SSB has been declared as the Lead Intelligence Agency (LIA) for both the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders. Thus, it was felt that a well knit intelligence network of the highest capabilities that can function and deliver would be the prime requirement of comprehensive Border Management. This was quite essential as the operations of SSB have to be Intelligence based so as to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan. MHA has accordingly sanctioned 650 posts in various ranks from Battalion to Frontier Headquarters.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said the job of SSB is much more demanding and challenging since it is vested the responsibility of guarding open borders unlike other borders. This makes the task much more challenging and demands highest alertness to check illegal activities like smuggling of arms, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), drugs and human-trafficking.

Commending the leadership shown by Smt. Archana Ramasundaram, who is the first woman to head any CAPF, the Union Home Minister said she has proved her mettle by leading a paramilitary force with exemplary skills. Shri Rajnath Singh cautioned the Forces' personnel to keep a tab on rumour-mongering over the social media. Assuring the Government's concern about the welfare of the CAPF personnel and their families, the Union Home Minister said he has taken steps to ensure a martyr's family gets atleast Rs. 1 crore compensation.

He urged the CAPF Officers each to adopt a CAPF martyr's family.

On the occasion, the Union Home Minister launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) Mobile App for CAPF personnel. The App is available on Google Play store and is user friendly. It contains various useful features to facilitate retired CAPFs and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances redressed, seek skill development training through National Skill Development Corporation under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information. This mobile App shall also help retired personnel to have better co-ordination with WARB and its field formation at states/UTs and district level.

Till date 43 Officers and personnel of SSB have sacrificed their lives for national security. This year Shri Amal Sarkar made the supreme sacrifice after gunning down one militant in an encounter with NDFB militants in Chirang district of Assam.

SSB Wives' Welfare Association SANDIKSHA has taken up the task to help out wards of such martyrs under the 'Sanrakshan' scheme. SANDIKSHA is providing financial help to children of martyrs who are still studying in school, colleges and universities to continue their studies.

In his address MoS (Home) Shri Hansarj Gangaram Ahir said the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has laid emphasis on Police Modernization and the Government is committed to carry it forward.

Welcoming the new Intelligence Wing of the SSB, Director, Intelligence Bureau, Shri Rajiv Jain said it will act like a force multiplier. Directors-General of CAPFs were present on the occasion.

Director General, SSB, Smt. Archana Ramasundaram said that the Force's Operations are mostly based on Intelligence hence the new Intelligence set-up will help effective guarding of India's open borders with Nepal and Bhutan. The Force has undertaken Modernization programme and the SSB has acquired two UAVs while the MHA has approved three Bomb Detection and Disposal squads for the SSB, she added.

Powered by Capital Market - Live News

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Eighteen AIADMK MLAs owing allegiance to rebel leader T.T.V. Dinakaran were on Monday disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal, giving the ruling side an edge in a show of strength which now seems imminent.

Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao, who met President Ram Nath Kovind and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the national capital, is reaching Chennai on Tuesday morning and may issue orders summoning a special session of the Assembly for the Chief Minister to prove his majority.

Assembly Secretary K. Boopathy said that after the disqualification under the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules 1986, the 18 MLAs have lost their membership of the House.

He also wrote to the Election Commission notifying the vacancies in the House after the disqualification.

With this, the effective strength of the 234-member House (where late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa's seat remains vacant) has come down to 215. And against a half-way mark of 109, Chief Minister E. Palaniswami claims to enjoy the support of 114 MLAs.

The DMK and its allies have 98 members.

The disqualified MLAs are: Thanga Tamilselvan, R. Murugan, Cho. Mariappan Kennedy, K. Kathikamu, C. Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P. Palaniappan, V. Senthil Balaji, S. Muthiah, P. Vetrivel, N.G. Parthiban, M. Kothandapani, T.A. Elumalai, M. Rengasamy, R. Thangadurai, R. Balasubramani, 'Ethirkottai' S.G. Subramanian, R. Sundararaj and K. Uma Maheshwari.

Though notices were issued by the Speaker initially to 19 AIADMK MLAs who took sides with Dinakaran, one of them, S.T.K. Jakkaiyan, shifted his loyalty to the Chief Minister.

The 18 MLAs have neither quit their party membership nor joined another political party, grounds on which an MLA can be disqualified.

A furious Dinakaran told reporters that the Speaker's decision was a "short cut" to gaining majority but said the matter will be taken to the Madras High Court on Tuesday.

"We are sure we will get a stay. Justice will triumph. Patience will win. Betrayal will never win," he said.

He said the fact that the government did not have majority was well known from last month and blamed the Governor for the current unpleasant situation. "After unseating the governemnt, we will get a majority in the elections," Dinakaran said.

He claimed he had the open support of 21 MLAs and 10 to 12 MLAs were "silently" with them.

His loyalist MLA Thanga Tamilselvan said in Kodagu in Karnataka, where the MLAs are staying in a resort, that they were 100 per cent confident that they would get justice in court. They would not rest till the Chief Minister was removed, he said.

Chief Minister Palaniswamy said in Salem that nobody can succeed in toppling his government or splitting the AIADMK. His faction would restore the frozen election symbol of "Two Leaves" for itself, he said.

Last week, senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who appeared for the DMK on a petition seeking an immediate floor test in the Assembly, told the Madras High Court that he feared the Speaker could disqualify these MLAs and conduct a floor test to facilitate Palaniswami to prove his legislative majority.

The opposition parties have been demanding that the government should prove its majority on the floor of the House after 19 legislators asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new Chief Minister.

DMK leader M.K. Stalin said on Monday that the Speaker's action amounted to "cruel murder" of democracy and was an attempt by the Chief Minister to take a short cut to prove his majority in the Assembly.

The Madras High Court had ordered that a floor test should not be held till September 20.

Stalin had claimed earlier that the Palaniswami government has lost majority support after the legislators belonging to Dinakaran group withdrew their support to Palaniswami. On Monday, Stalin asked both the Speaker and the Chief Minister to resign.

--IANS

vj-vsc/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least four people have died and another 14 wounded in an explosion Sunday in southeastern Afghanistan, according to an official source.

The bombing took place at 11.00 a.m. (local time) at a mobile phone market in Khost city, Efe news reported.

"As a result of the explosion, four people died and 14 were injured, all of them civilians," Khost governor's representative Mubariz Zadran said.

The injured were taken to a hospital and most of them are out of danger, according to Zadran.

A police official said the explosives were placed under a desk in a shop, and were detonated as more people gathered in the area.

He further said that the case was under investigation and no arrests have been made.

No group so far has claimed responsibility for the attack, although the Haqqani network, linked to the Taliban, is known to be active in the province.

Afghanistan is going through one of the bloodiest periods since the US invasion in 2001.

Since the NATO combat mission ended in January 2015, the insurgents have been gaining ground in various parts of Afghanistan and currently control, influence or are fighting the government in at least 43 per cent of the country, according to the US.

--IANS

vgu/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An has been arrested in the capital, police said on Monday.

Shauman Haq, 27, was arrested near Vikas Marg yesterday following a tip-off by Delhi Police's Special Cell, an official said.

Haq's interrogation is underway and further details are awaited, he added.

Last month, two men with suspected links to the terror outfit were arrested here in two separate cases.

On August 9, the Special Cell had arrested 29-year-old Syed Mohammed Zishan Ali after he was deported from Saudi Arabia.

On August 1, 25-year-old Raja-ul-Ahmed was arrested following a tip-off from the West Bengal Police.
In a unique initiative, Gender Alliance Bihar, a collective effort of over 270 civil society organisations backed by the UN Population Fund, has come up with a mobile application to fight the rampant social evil of child marriage in the state.

Launched by Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, the "Bandhan Tod" app will try to create awareness on resisting child marriage and will also provide round-the-clock help to adolescent girls saying no to the practice in the form of an SOS button.

The Gender Alliance is an initiative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and was started to bring together civil societies, activists, academicians, researchers, media, and others on a common platform to advocate gender equality.

"Use of latest technology like a mobile app is probably the first of its kind in the country to fight child marriage," Nadeem Noor, head of UNFPA in Bihar, told IANS.

He said the app offers innovative features that will give girls the confidence to stand up against marriage before they are 18, the legal marriagable age for girls in India, adding its unveiling ahead of the formal launch of the statewide campaign against child marriage by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Mahatma Gandhi's birthday (October 2) was a positive development.

"If the state government includes the app in its campaign, it will help us popularise it down to the village level with the wide network of thousands of women self-help groups active in rural Bihar," he said.

Bandhan Tod is part of Gender Alliance's strategy to support the state government's efforts to end child marriage and dowry.

"It is a rare effort of civil society, and the first of its kind in Bihar, to support the state government's commitment to end child marriage and dowry," Gender Alliance convener Swapan Mazumdar said.

The app was also lauded by N. Vijayalakshmi, Managing Director, Women Development Corporation.

It will be available on Google Play store and anyone can register on it with their details -- name, age, block, district and mobile number. Mobikwik, a digital payment gateway, will provide incentive to users who download it.

If the SOS button is pressed, the registered mobile number and other details of the user will be sent to the Gender Alliance monitoring cell and civil society organisations, who will contact the user to get details and then alert the local authorities for action.

Given the socio-economic and cultural context within which child marriage takes place, the campaign will aim to directly and indirectly reach out to girls at the village and panchayat levels in all the blocks and districts of Bihar through technology.

Gender Alliance stressed on the dire need and urgency to match this commitment with coordinated strategies, action and resources to end child marriages as well as early marriages in Bihar.

It has also extended support of the hundreds of civil society organisations, that are part of the initiative, to the state government in its fight against child marriage.

"Bandhan Tod mobile app will complement the Bihar government's campaign against child marriage," said Prashanti Tiwary, Manager of Gender Alliance.

Since its inception last year, Gender Alliance has focused its work on gender equity. Keeping this in consideration, it has also identified child marriage as one of the four priority issues as it is not only a violation of human rights, but a grave threat to the lives, health and development of girls.

Child marriage is rampant in Bihar, particularly in rural areas, despite laws against it. It is a big social problem among Dalits, OBCs and Muslims due to lower literacy rates and other factors, including poverty.

Till a few years ago, Bihar accounted for 69 per cent of child marriages of total marriages. But the latest National Family Health Survey-4 revealed that the figure has declined in Bihar in the last 10 years due to increase of education among girls.

Gender Alliance will soon come out with a ground reality report on the adolescent girls' social, education and health status in every block and district.

"This in-depth report is likely to provide ready-made data for the government to use for different scheme implementations to achieve its goals in a time-bound manner," Mazumdar said.

Gender Alliance has announced the Bandhan Tod award for journalism for mainstreaming gender in media and awarded adolescent girls with Bandhan Tod champion title to recognise their brave role in the fight against child marriage.

(Imran Khan can be contacted at imran.k@ians.in)

--IANS

ik/him/vd/sac

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
If a child has an asthma attack in school, would the staff there know how to respond? For most parents in the US, the answer would be a "no", says a study.

While most parents (77 per cent) are sure schools would be able to provide first aid for minor issues such as bleeding from a cut, they are less confident about a school's ability to respond to more complex health situations such as an asthma attack or a mental health problem.

Just 38 percent of parents are very confident in schools' ability to assist a student suspected of having a mental health problem, according to a report from the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health.

"Parents feel schools can handle basic first aid, but are less sure about urgent health situations such as an asthma attack, epileptic seizure or serious allergic reaction," says Sarah Clark, co-director of the poll.

"And they have the most uncertainty around whether schools can identify and assist a student with a mental health problem," Clark said in a statement released by the University of Michigan.

One of the challenges of addressing mental health is that there are so many facets.

"At the elementary level, this might include prolonged sadness, anger management problems, or undiagnosed ADHD. For older students, it may be anxiety about college entrance tests, a problem with drug use, or suicidal thoughts," Clark explained.

Parents at the middle/high school level noted that school counsellors would be most likely to assist with mental health issues.

Yet varying levels of training, competing demands and large student case loads may make it especially difficult for counsellors to develop relationships that facilitate the identification of students who are struggling, Clark said.

--IANS

gb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Normal life was affected across Odisha on Monday as the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) observed a five-hour strike to protest the hike in petrol and diesel prices.

The strike was in effect from 7 a.m. to 12 noon.

Bus and other vehicles remained off the road at several places while railway services were also affected as BJD activists staged protests at several railway stations.

Commercial establishments also remained closed as the ruling party protested the rising prices of petrol, diesel and cooking gas across block and district headquarters on Monday.

School children and office-goers bore the brunt of the strike as protesters blocked roads in Bhubaneswar and other parts of the state.

The state government issued an advisory to close all schools and colleges in view of the strike. The schools conducting examinations have been asked to conduct the same on some other day.

Holding BJD placards, the party workers also burnt tyres in most traffic intersections in the capital, bringing road transport to a grinding halt.

"The BJD has taken to streets today against the fuel price hike imposed on consumers by the Petroleum Ministry at a time when the price of crude oil has decreased in the international market," said BJD spokesperson Sanjay Dasburma.

"The consumers are suffering while private oil companies in the country are earning crores," he added.

BJD's Rajya Sabha member Prasanna Acharya said fuel prices in India are among the highest in the South Asian region, despite the neighbouring countries depending on the same sources for crude oil.

Countering BJD allegations, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Prithviraj Harichandan said the state government should write to the central government to bring petroleum products in the ambit of Goods and Services Tax (GST) so that the fuel prices come down.

--IANS

cd/pgh/sac

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A British national Al Qaeda terrorist on a mission to radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight in Myanmar has been arrested in the Indian capital, police said on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police P.S. Kushwah said Samiun Rahman, 27, was arrested near Shakarpur bus stand in east Delhi on Sunday evening.

Police said the accused's mission was to set up base in Manipur or Mizoram and radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight the military in Myanmar.

Kushwah said the accused was in India for the past two months under fake identity of Shumon Haq from Kishanganj of Bihar and also had a fake voter identification card in the same name.

Rahman, who had been an operative of Al Qaeda for the last four years, had received a three-month arms training in Syria and fought in Alleppo, Kushwah said. Police also recovered a pistol and four cartridges from him.

The officer said that in the past two months the accused was in touch with different people from south India and West Bengal as well as Jammu and Kashmir.

"Initially he showed some interest in Kashmir and was talking to people over there. He wanted to know about the jihad happening in India but he didn't take it forward," Kushwah told IANS.

Kushwah said Rahman was previously working in Bangladesh and was jailed.

"He had radicalised around a dozen people in Bangladesh," he said, describing him as a "hardcore terrorist".

Rahman had visited Morocco, Turkey, Syria and Bangladesh for terrorist activities, police said.

After his release on bail from Bangladesh in April, he got directions from his group and moved to India.

In July, police received information that a terrorist of Al Qaeda was trying to set up base in Delhi to carry out terrorist activities in India.

On Sunday, police got another input that he would come to Shakarpur to meet a probable recruit, following which police arrested him.

Police said that Rahman was in contact with members of his group through Facebook, WhatsApp and Telegram.

During the past two months, he stayed at various 'Madrassas' in Kishanganj of Bihar, Hazari Bagh of Jharkhand, Delhi and other places, according to police.

It is believed that he was in touch with a number of youths to incite them to join Al Qaeda.

The officer said that Rahman's father, hailing from Bangladesh, was a businessman in London and his brother and three sisters also worked in London.

Rahman's family owned a residence in central London, Kushwah said.

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmar and taken refuge in Bangladesh -- and some in India too -- to escape violence in the wake of a military crackdown.

--IANS

nkh/qd/dg

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Following several deadly terror attacks in Britain over the past six months, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May is set to urge Facebook and Google to perk up their eforts in cracking down on online radicalisation.

May will demand tougher action to combat online radicalisation at a showdown in New York this week, The Mirror reported late Sunday.

"In a 15-minute speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, she will call on leaders and tech giants to help halt the spread of poisonous material that is warping young minds," a UK official official was quoted as saying.

She will then host talks on tackling extremism with Facebook, Microsoft and Google alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.

Last week, as many as 30 people were injured in an explosion which occurred at the Parsons Green subway station in West London, of which the Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility.

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said that Britain's terrorism threat level has been lowered from "critical" to "severe" after being raised to the highest possible in the wake of the Friday explosion.

Rudd made the statement on Sunday after British police arrested two suspects in connection of the explosion in a packed rush-hour carriage on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.

--IANS

sau/gb/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday said the government's stand to deport Rohingya refugees was in the nation's interest.

"It is a sensitive matter. Whatever government will do, will be in nation's interest," Rijiju told reporters ahead of the Supreme Court hearing on Rohingya Muslims who have fled from Myanmar and a large number of them are in India.

The apex court is hearing a plea against the government's decision to deport the refugees to Myanmar.

Rijiju said the government's way forward would be based on national interest.

"We shall mention the same in our affidavit to be submitted in the Supreme Court," he said.

He also requested the international human rights bodies not to spread misinformation about India and said: "India is a sovereign country and protecting the nation is our duty."

The UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva last week slammed India over its stand on the Rohingya crisis.

--IANS

aks/in/sar/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A popular beverage in most parts of the world, coffee is much more than just a drink in the Middle East. It is an integral part of the region's heritage, a celebration of its culture and a dedicated coffee museum in Dubai -- the first of its kind in the Middle East -- stands as testimony to the region's longstanding tryst with the drink.

Just like the traditional value that most Indians associate with "chai", coffee is the customary drink served to visitors in most homes in the Middle East.

"It is a part of our heritage. The way we have been brought up, coffee has always occupied a vital space in our culture. So even the poor, those who cannot afford anything, will serve coffee to their guests and welcome them," museum owner Khalid Al Mulla, a noted coffee trader and collector, told this visiting IANS correspondent.

But even before Mulla elaborated on the history of coffee and its particular significance in the Middle Eastern context, the museum was already a feast for our eyes. In a city of skyscrapers that revels in pomp and gaiety, this museum comes as some sort of relief to the souls of wanderers. It tells not only the regional but also the global history of coffee.

The museum's shop is the first thing that catches the eye on entering this villa. Here one finds coffee mugs from several countries, personal hand grinders and other similar stuff to carry home.

Enter the museum and your are spellbound at the sight of a beautiful lady, dressed in traditional Egyptian attire serving traditional coffee and popcorn to visitors. Along with a cup of coffee prepared in authentic African style, she also told us a fable. "Marriages are not made by gods. They are made by coffee," she proclaimed, before bursting into loud laughter.

She explained that in Turkey, marriages are often decided over coffee. When a proposal comes to the family, the girl approves it by preparing a good cup of coffee. But when she has to reject the proposal, she adds a pinch of salt.

The ground floor includes a room for Western antiques, and another for Orientalism. A dedicated corner is designed to showcase various types of coffee. There is also an Egyptian corner, which shows the history of coffee since the days of the Ottoman Empire. One of the most rare treasures in the basement, which transports you to back into time, is the "Swedish roast" dating to 1840.

Then, there is the German grinder from the World War II era and many mills that were collected from Britain, dating as far back as 1860. The museum also contains ancient toasters and old paintings that tell the history of coffee and its methods of manufacture and preparation. There is also a literature room, which displays texts related to coffee, from the eighteenth century to the present day.

The upper floor lounge includes a small coffee shop, offering coffee and snacks to visitors. What strikes you is that even the sweets offered here have a distinctive coffee flavour.

As we stroll through the museum and its distinctive rooms, Mulla, who is a mobile information bank about the cultivation of coffee and the ways of transporting and making it, elaborated on the history of what is one of the most popular drinks in the world today.

He said that the origin of coffee can be traced to the Ethiopian highlands many centuries ago. As the Legend of Kaldi has it, he said, coffee was discovered accidentally when a goat ate some unknown berries from a tree and remained alert for the rest of the night.

A drink was prepared from these berries by worshippers in the local monasteries and it helped them stay awake during the long hours of prayers. The message spread rapidly until it reached the Arabian peninsula, from where the Arabs took this newly found drink to other parts of the world.

The Coffee Museum opened its doors to public in October 2014.

(Saket Suman's visit to Dubai was at the invitation of Dubai Tourism. He can be contacted at saket.s@ians.in)

--IANS

ss/vm/sac

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
China on Monday issued a commemorative stamp in honour of the world's largest radio telescope located in Guizhou province.

The State Post Bureau (SPB) has issued a set of five stamps, including one commemorating the Five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope priced at 1.2 yuan, reports Xinhua news agency.

The other four stamps honour China's quantum science experimental satellite "Mozi", the research vessel Tansuo-1, a national grain production project around the Bohai Sea and the Sunway TaihuLight supercomputer.

With an investment of 1.2 billion yuan, the telescope is single-dish with a diametre of half a kilometre.

It was built in the Dawodang depression, a natural karst basin in Pingtang county in Guizhou. The telescope is designed to probe space for the faintest signs of life and is sensitive to any electromagnetic interference.

Surrounding areas are open to visitors. But the number of visitors is strictly controlled below 2,000 people per day and electronic devices including cell phones and cameras are prohibited.

Since it began operation last September, it has received 240,000 visitors.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

The exercises were scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea, Xinhua news agency reported.

It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.

The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.

--IANS

soni/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Cyprus government has raised over 4 billion euros ($4.7 billion) since 2013 by "selling" European Union (EU) citizenships to billionaire Russian oligarchs and Ukrainian elite, a media report said.

Cyprus has granted the super rich the right to live and work throughout Europe in exchange for cash investment. More than 400 passports are understood to have been issued through the "golden visa" scheme last year alone, the Guardian report said on Sunday.

Launched in 2013, Cyprus' current citizenship-by-investment scheme requires applicants to place 2 million euros in property or 2.5 million euros in companies or government bonds. There is no language or residency requirement, other than a visit once every seven years.

Prior to 2013, Cypriot citizenship was granted on a discretionary basis by ministers, in a less formal version of the current arrangement.

A leaked list of the names of hundreds of those who have benefited from these schemes includes prominent business-people, a former member of Russia's parliament, the founders of Ukraine's largest commercial bank and a gambling billionaire.

Ana Gomes, a Portuguese MP, described "golden visas" as "absolutely immoral and perverse".

"I'm not against individual member states granting citizenship or residence to someone who would make a very special contribution to the country, be it in arts or science, or even in investment. But granting, not selling," she told the Guardian.

Later this year, the European parliament will debate an amendment tabled by Gomes requiring countries to carry out thorough security checks on "golden visa" applicants.

The European Commission has also ordered its own inquiry.

In response, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus said the programme was intended for "genuine investors, who establish a business base and acquire a permanent residence in Cyprus".

--IANS

ksk/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Haryana Police on Monday released a list of the most wanted people for the violence by Dera Sacha Sauda sect followers last month. Sect Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's close aide Honeypreet Kaur tops the list.

Another top aide of Ram Rahim named in the list is the absconding Dera spokesman Aditya Insan.

Photographs of 43 suspects responsible for instigating or indulging in the large-scale violence have also been released on the Haryana Police website.

The photographs have mostly been obtained from video footage of TV news channels and police videos and CCTV cameras installed at various places in Panchkula. The police have not been able to identify the accused by name so far.

Ram Rahim's conviction for rape led to violence in Panchkula town, adjoining Chandigarh on August 25 immediately after his conviction. The violence left 32 people dead in Panchkula and nearly 250 injured.

Nearly one lakh Dera followers had gathered illegally in Panchkula 2-3 days ahead of the rape verdict by the CBI special court.

Honeypreet Kaur, whose real name is Priyanka Taneja and is the controversial adopted daughter of Ram Rahim Singh, has been absconding since August 25 evening.

She had accompanied the disgraced godman from Sirsa till the CBI special court in Panchkula where he was convicted on two counts of rape.

She even accompanied Ram Rahim in the government helicopter from Panchkula to Rohtak after he was convicted in the rape cases and was being shifted to the prison near Rohtak.

The Haryana Police have booked Honeypreet Kaur for sedition and being involved in an alleged conspiracy to help Ram Rahim escape after his conviction.

The police have issued a lookout notice against her and raids are being conducted in various states to nab her.

Honeypreet, who is in her mid-30s and is considered closest to Ram Rahim, and has been his heroine in the five films that he has directed, produced and acted in, in the last three years.

Though both, Ram Rahim and Honeypreet, call themselves as the father-daughter duo, her former husband had accused both of having an illicit relationship.

Her writ ran in the Dera set up and the headquarters. Her clout was even bigger than the immediate family, including wife, son and daughters of Ram Rahim.

The police have also issued a lookout notice against Aditya Insan, a former eye specialist from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Dera spokesman for many years.

He was last seen in Panchkula just minutes before the violence broke out.

Insan was booked with four other Dera functionaries for sedition and inciting violence.

--IANS

js/sar/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New York, Sep 18 (IANS/WAM) Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Saturday met UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the 72nd Regular Session of the UN General Assembly.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed Arab, regional and various other crisis in the region.

Sisi highlighted the bilateral and brotherly relations between the United Arab Emirates and Egypt and stressed on the importance of continuing to work on developing them in various fields.

He said that current regional developments with their challenges necessitate the concerted efforts of all Arab countries to promote joint Arab action and to curtail attempts to intervene in the affairs of Arab states.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed expressed keenness to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries. He praised the level of coordination and intensive consultation with Egypt to address the challenges and risks facing the region, especially terrorism.

--IANS/WAM

soni/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A special CBI court here on Monday sentenced former Bihar Director General of Police Ram Chandra Khan and three others to three years imprisonment for corruption.

CBI Judge Ranjana Asthana pronounced the judgment in Rs 35 lakh uniform scam, which took place in 1983-84. According to the prosecution, police uniforms were bought at higher rates in Ranchi, causing loss to the exchequer.

The total cost of uniforms purchased was Rs 45 lakh.

In total, there were 10 accused. Six died during the trial.

The uniform scam was handed over to the CBI in 1986 by the Bihar government and the chargesheet was filed in 1996.

--IANS

ns/amit/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan on Monday summoned Switzerlands envoy designate Thomas Kolly over a "free Balochistan" campaign being run in Geneva by the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

Pakistan registered a strong protest over the smear campaign, and conveyed to the envoy that the use of Switzerland's soil for such subversive activities was a violation of international laws, a Foreign Office statement said.

On Sunday, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Farukh Amil wrote to Swiss Permanent Representative Valentin Zellweger, drawing his attention to the "Free Balochistan" posters placed along Rue de Ferney in the Grand Sacconex area.

Amil "has counted eight posters and one digital poster on display since September 3," the letter reads.

According to the ambassador, a car "remained parked near (the digital poster) and seemed to be guarding (it)".

"It is quite conceivable that local city authorities received certain revenue fee for display of these posters," Amil said in the letter, stressing that "any notion of 'Free Balochistan' is a flagrant attack on sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan."

According to the letter, the BH -- the apparent sponsor of these posters -- is an affiliate of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which is a "listed terrorist organisation under the laws of Pakistan and other countries, including Britain".

"The use of Swiss soil by terrorists and violent secessionists for nefarious designs against Pakistan and its 200 million people is totally unacceptable," the ambassador said, demanding that "the incident is fully investigated with a view to blocking its recurrence in the future".

--IANS

ahm/bg

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh had no time for the state as he was busy fighting cases against him in courts.

"The Chief Minister is on bail and continuously busy with his court cases. He has no time for the state," the Minister told reporters here.

Virbhadra Singh is facing accusations of money laundering and amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income during his tenure as Union Minister. The cases were probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate.

Prasad, who was in the state capital for the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'Hisab Mangey Himachal' campaign, said the state had failed to make optimum use of central funds for developmental projects.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen on giving adequate funds to Himachal Pradesh, but the state government is not interested in utilising these appropriately. The Himachal government is not implementing schemes quickly," he said.

The Centre has allocated many national highways to the hill state but it has failed to even formulate detailed project reports, thus delaying these deliberately, Prasad, a senior BJP leader, said.

Appealing to the people to vote for the BJP in the Himachal assembly elections in November, he said: "The state government doesn't want the Centre to take credit for the projects sanctioned for the state."

On the gang rape and murder of a schoolgirl in Himachal, the Minister said the case had exposed the state government's intentions.

"It's for the first time that a police officer of the rank of Inspector General is in jail for breaking law," he said.

"As a Law Minister, I have written to all Chief Justices and Chief Ministers for time-bound justice to rape victims through fast-track courts," Prasad added.

Terming the action against him as a "well planned conspiracy" to destroy his public image ahead of the assembly polls, Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh has blamed the Enforcement Directorate for concealing facts and giving out a concocted value of assets seized to sensationalise matters.

--IANS

vg/tsb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Superstar Mahesh Babu's forthcoming Telugu spy-thriller "Spyder" has been cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a U/A certificate and without cuts. The film is slated for worldwide release on September 27.

On the film's official Twitter handle, it was posted on Monday that the film has been certified U/A.

" 'Spyder' censor complete. Certified U/A. Also has unique distinction of no disclaimers and statutory warnings throughout the movie," read the tweet.

The film, according to a source from the film's unit, has no drinking or smoking scenes.

Directed by A.R Murugadoss, the film has been simultaneously made in Tamil as well. The Tamil version is yet to be certified.

In the film, Mahesh Babu plays an Intelligence Bureau officer.

Said to be made on a lavish budget of approximately Rs. 120 crore, the film is based on bio-terrorism and features actor-filmmaker SJ Suryah as the antagonist.

Rakul Preet Singh plays the leading lady.

--IANS

hp/nv/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 65-year-old man was arrested on the charge of firing at and injuring a motorist in the hand during a brawl over wrong parking in south Delhi, police said on Monday.

Police said accused Rahul Rai was returning to his house in Chattarpur farms area from Nanital along with his driver Khushwinder Singh on Sunday evening when the incident occurred.

"When they neared Khokha Market at the Saket crossing on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, they came across a Swift car parked wrongly, but Khushwinder somehow managed to pass the spot," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Chinmoy Biswal said.

There was an altercation between Rai and car owner Amit, 38, following which Rai allegedly brandished a revolver and pointed it at Amit.

Amit, a resident of Krishna Park in Devli, tried to snatch the weapon but was shot in the left hand, the officer said.

Rai was sent to judicial custody by a court here, he added.

--IANS

sp/tsb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) or Doctors Without Borders on Monday urged Myanmar to grant international humanitarian organisations unrestricted and independent access to the conflict-torn Rakhine state to enable provision of humanitarian assistance to the hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people.

The MSF appeal comes amid an ongoing military offensive in Rakhine that was launched on August 25 after the Arakan Rohingya Resistance Army (ARSA) mounted fresh attacks on multiple government posts in the region that led to over 400,000 Rohingyas fleeing to neighbouring Bangladesh.

"The remaining population in northern Rakhine, thought to be hundreds of thousands of people, is without any meaningful form of humanitarian assistance," the MSF was quoted as saying in a statement by Efe news.

According to the statement, in central Rakhine, around 120,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) remain in camps where they are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for their survival, owing to restrictions on their movements.

The statement added that MSF used to provide mobile clinics in several of these camps and villages "but international staff have not been granted travel authorisations to visit the health facilities since the end of August, whilst national staff have been too afraid to go to work following remarks by Myanmar officials accusing NGOs of colluding with ARSA".

Moreover, according to Benoit De Gryse, MSF's operations manager for Myanmar, the government's desire to exclusively provide humanitarian assistance in Rakhine "is likely to result in even more severe administrative and access constraints than ever".

The Army offensive in Rakhine has been condemned globally by human rights organisations.

Rohingyas are not recognised as citizens by Myanmar although more than a million of them have lived in the country through generations, facing growing discrimination, including severe restrictions on their freedom of movement, following a sectarian conflict in 2012 that killed at least 160 people, and displaced nearly 120,000.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Council is set to discuss human rights violations in Myanmar and determine if an "ethnic cleansing" of the Rohingya minority is underway in the country.

--IANS

soni/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Israeli officials on Monday said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to discuss the Iran nuclear deal.

Israeli officials said Netanyahu will try to persuade Trump to retract US support for the nuclear deal between the world powers and Iran, Xinhau reported.

"The most important thing in the upcoming meeting is demanding the cancellation of the nuclear deal," said Israeli cabinet minister, Yisrael Katz, who is also the minister of transportation.

In an interview with Army Radio, Katz said that "the lesson from the North Korea shows negotiations and agreements with dictatorships do not prevent the development of nuclear weapons."

Netanyahu is expected to use his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to reiterate his position that Iran poses a threat to the stability of the Middle East.

The hardline politician has been a vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, which was signed two years ago in Vienna between Iran and the world powers.

Israel has been worried over Iran's expansive role in Syria and Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbours.

--IANS

ahm/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Tamil Nadu government on Monday told the Supreme Court that there were no fresh anti-NEET agitations in the state after it was banned by the top court on September 8.

The top court had made NEET mandatory for admission to undergraduate and post-graduate medical courses.

The Attorney General K.K. Venugopal told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud that following the directions of the top court on September 8 banning all anti-NEET protests, the Chief Secretary of the state asked all the District Collectors to immediately comply with the top court's order.

The AG told the court that "there were no reports from the district authorities about any fresh anti-NEET agitation. As AG made his submission, the bench asked the Tamil Nadu government to file an affidavit to that affect".

The court directed the next hearing of the matter on October 8.

The top court had on September 8, on a petition by advocate G.S. Mani, banned all anti-NEET agitations in the state.

--IANS

pk/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi, Sep 18 (ANS) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday cautioned troopers of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) against messages being circulated on social and warned them not to believe them unless their authenticity is verified.

"As you (SSB) have the responsibility to guard an open border, I want to draw your attention towards social . I feel that several unnecessary information are circulated on social which do not have any basis. People generally believe such information and forward it," the Home Minister said while launching the new intel set-up of SSB here.

"I appeal to all SSB troopers not to believe the authenticity of such information they get on their mobile phones and WhatsApp until it is properly verified."

Rajnath Singh said there are several anti-national and anti-social elements who try to take forward such wrong activities by circulating them through messages on social media that are very dangerous for any society and country.

"I think, there is a necessity to be cautious and avoid such activities," he said.

The Minister further stressed the need to do more for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), saying "what has been done for CAPFs is still not enough, there is need to do more for them".

Reiterating his earlier statement, the Minister said the kin of every deceased CAPF personnel should be given not less than Rs 1 core as compensation and that the facility has been started from 2016.

Rajnath Singh promised to initiate a new scheme which will help CAPF troopers whose family suddenly faces any big problem and they are not able to handle it.

"Our next attempt is to provide some help to the family of a CAPF trooper whose family faces any special kind of problem which he can not handle. I am thinking of it and will definitely do something for it."

"I think, if you (CAPF officers) take care of the family of any martyr, you would not only perform your duty but also earn their blessings."

On the occasion, he launched a full-fledged Intelligence Wing of SSB which is mandated to guard the India-Nepal and India-Bhutan borders.

In a bid to enhance operational efficiency, the Home Ministry in July had given approval to creating 650 combatised posts for the intelligence set-up in the 96,500-strong SSB.

The 650 posts in various ranks range from battalion to headquarters levels.

The Intelligence Wing personnel would be deployed along the 1,751-km India-Nepal and 699-km India-Bhutan borders where there are no restrictions on the movement of people on either side.

SSB Director General Archana Ramasundaram said the Intelligence Wing was required due to cross-border movement of criminals and anti-national elements in the context of visa-free regime on these borders.

As most stretches of the border see activities of Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence, Indian insurgent groups, Maoists, fundamentalists, smugglers of arms and ammunition, narcotics, Indian Fake Currency racketeers and human traffickers, the wing will really help in keeping a proper tab on these, she said.

On the occasion, the Home Minister also launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) app and distributed scholarships to the children of SSB personnel killed in the line of duty.

The mobile app is available on Google Play store and is user-friendly, the SSB DG said.

"The app contains various useful features to facilitate retired CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances redressed, seek skill development training through the National Skill Development Corporation under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information," she added.

"It will also help retired personnel to have better coordination with WARB and its field formations at states, union territories and district level."

--IANS

rak/pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Maharashtra Congress experienced jitters as senior leader and former Chief Minister Narayan Rane stepped into rebel gear on Monday amidst speculation that he would join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

However, keeping his options close to the chest, Rane said he would announce his future course of action only on September 21, the first day of the nine-day Navratri festival.

Addressing a massive rally of his supporters at Kudal town in his home district Sindhudurg, an aggressive Rane said to thunderous applause: "I am not saying anything today. I will give the breaking news in phases. On September 21, I shall announce my decision."

His statements came a day after the Rane trio -- Narayan Rane and sons Nilesh and Nitesh -- launched separate scathing attacks on state Congress President and former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and AICC General Secretary Mohan Prakash for abruptly dissolving the party's Sindhudurg District Congress Committee which had Rane supporters.

"It is sad that the Congress High Command is not taking any cognizance of the party developments in this state. Ashok Chavan is going all out to wipe out the Congress," roared the 65-year-old former Shiv Sainik who joined the Congress in mid-2005.

Rane was the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance Chief Minister for a year when it ruled the state between 1995 and 1999.

The crowds cheered him, with slogans of "Narayan Rane Aage Bado, Hum Tumhare Saath Haia".

Simultaneously, both Rane siblings also spoke and criticized the state Congress leadership on various counts and how it had failed to capitalize on various issues to consolidate itself.

In recent months, Rane has met BJP President Amit Shah and even Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on a couple of occasions in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, sparking off rumours of his imminent exit from the Congress.

Fadnavis made it a point to visit the Maratha strongman's Mumbai home during the recent Ganeshotsav festival.

Though the BJP fuelled the speculation by announcing it would welcome Rane with open arms, Rane had dismissed them as mere rumours.

--IANS

qn/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Retreat ceremony at Attari-Wagah and Hussainiwala on the India-Pakistan border in recent days has seen a unique pledge being taken by thousands of visitors who flock to watch the high-voltage event.

The unique thing about this pledge is that thousands of people from various states are taking it at the same time, standing right in front of the border guards and people of neighbouring Pakistan.

"Resolving to make India free of the factors which are becoming stumbling blocks in its progress, people from across the country took the 'Sankalp Se Sidhi' New India Pledge," Field Publicity Officer Rajesh Bali told IANS.

The pledge was taken at the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post, 30 km from Amritsar, on August 23, and at the Hussainiwala border in Ferozepur on September 10. While there were around 15,000 people in attendance at the Attari border, there were nearly 5,000 people at Hussainiwala.

"They pledged to make India free of terrorism, communalism and poverty. People also pledged to keep India clean. It was a unique experience for everyone who participated," added Bali, who administered the pledge to people at both locations.

The ceremony was conducted by the Amritsar-based unit of the Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP) of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in coordination, along with the Border Security Force (BSF).

BSF Punjab Frontier Inspector General Mukul Goel lauded the people who came in large numbers to watch the Retreat ceremony and to boost the morale of the force, the first line of defence at the international border in Punjab.

Quoting Winston Churchill -- "when there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you" -- Goel said: "We can unitedly take the challenges head-on, which the country is facing nowadays."

For the people who participated in the oath-taking ceremony, the experience was unique.

"We had come here in a group of 16 people to watch the Retreat ceremony at Attari. When we came to know about the pledge ceremony, we were excited. It was unique to see and hear nearly 15,000 people speak together, standing right on the international border with a hostile country, with troopers and people in an eyeball-to-eyeball situation," said Radhika Mehta, a visitor from Mumbai.

The DFP, which came into existence in 1953, creates awareness among the masses, particularly in rural areas, about the government's policies, programmes and schemes meant for their welfare.

The 25-minute spectacle at the Attari-Wagah border attracts thousands of people every evening as the flags of India and Pakistan are lowered and border gates are closed for the night.

The ceremony, along the Radcliffe Line international border between India and Pakistan, gets your adrenalin and heart pumping faster as border guards, BSF of India and Pakistan Rangers from the neighbouring country, go through their disciplined paces.

The Indian side at Attari has a new stadium-like visitors' gallery that can accommodate up to 15,000 people. The gallery is always jampacked.

The visitors' gallery goes up to a height of 25 metres (equivalent to a seven-storey building).

Before the ceremony begins, women and children can be seen dancing their hearts out to some foot-tapping Bollywood songs of the patriotic genre.

(Jaideep Sarin can be contacted at jaideep.s@ians.in)

--IANS

js/vm/ky

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The low count of vehicles plying on the six-lane Sister Nivedita Bridge between the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah across the Hooghly river has impacted the revenue of the bridge operator -- the Second Vivekananda Bridge Tollway Company (SVBTC), the company said on Monday.

According to the company, the number of vehicles using the bridge is a third of its capacity even after a decade of its completion, primarily because of the slower-than-expected growth of West Bengal's economy.

The company, however, said they were expecting to break even and make a profit in the next two to three years.

The Sister Nivedita Bridge, earlier called the Second Vivekananda Bridge, was constructed in 2007. The 6.1-km Second Vivekananda Bridge Tollway Project includes the 880-meter-long main bridge over the Hooghly as also the approach roads.

"The six-lane bridge was built with the capacity of plying 1.45 lakh Passenger Car Units (PCU) per day in 2007, but presently 45 thousand PCUs are plying through the bridge every day as the growth of traffic has been half of what was expected in the last five years," Lala K.K. Roy, the company's Director - Corporate Development and Governance, said at a media meet, marking 10 years of the completion and operation of the bridge.

"The revenue generation was very poor in the first few years. Now the revenue generation is sufficient for meeting the maintenance expenditure of the asset (bridge).

"We expected to make a profit from the fifth year of operation. However, that did not happen due to the slow growth of state's economy. We are expecting to make profit in the next two to three years," he said.

The company signed a 30-year concession agreement, including three years of construction period, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to finance, design, built, operate and maintain the bridge and has 17 years left in the contract.

In spite of connecting four national highways and significant industrial areas in the state, only three per cent of the vehicles plying on the bridge were inter-state vehicles, with the rest being local and state transport, Roy said.

The bridge, which works as a crucial link between NH 2, NH 6 on the west, and NH 34, NH 35 on the east of the Hooghly river, is also facing an encroachment problem as a temporary bus stand and truck terminus have been built under the bridge.

"There was a truck terminus in the area before the bridge was built that shifted elsewhere during its construction. But now the land below the bridge has been encroached upon and a bus stand and truck terminus have been built. There is a chance that movement of these vehicles might damage the bridge," Roy said.

Refuting reports of damage to one of the bridge piers, the company said the maintenance work was a part of routine activity as there was significant erosion of the river bed near pier No. 4 of the bridge.

The Sister Nivedita Bridge is one of the four bridges connecting Kolkata and Howrah. The others are Rabindra Setu (the iconic Howrah Bridge), Vidyasagar Setu (Second Hooghly Bridge) and Vivekananda Setu (Bally Bridge).

--IANS

mgr/ssp/nir/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Riz Ahmed has become the first man of Asian descent to win an acting award at the Emmys, according to a media report. He is a British actor of Pakistani descent.

The two actors of Asian descent who have won at the Emmys earlier are British-Indian Archie Panjabi in 2010 for "The Good Wife" and Iranian-American actress Shohreh Aghdashloo in 2009 for "House of Saddam", reported independent.co.uk.

Riz won at the 69th Emmy Awards here on Sunday in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie category for his role in "The Night Of".

He plays Nasir "Naz" Khan, a Pakistani/Iranian-American college student accused of murdering a young woman, in a show which partly examines the brutal effects of racism within the criminal justice system.

"I want to say it is always strange reaping the rewards of a story based on real world suffering," Ahmed said in his acceptance speech.

"But if this show has shown a light on some of the prejudice in our societies, xenophobia, some of the injustice in our justice system, then maybe that is something."

Commenting on diversity in showbiz, Riz said during a backstage interaction: "I don't know if any one person's win of an award, or one person snagging one role, or one person doing very well changes something, that's a systemic issue... I think that's something that happens slowly over time.

"In terms of the US and the UK, I'm really proud to be a Londoner. I'm really proud to be from the UK. I'm also really aware that actors of colour often have more opportunity in the US, but I think ultimately now we see that TV in particular is a global medium.

"People are streaming shows or watching them all around the world. Hopefully we'll see a globalization of our storytelling."

The 2017 Emmys proved to be a welcome change for people of colour.

Donald Glover became the first black winner of the award for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, while "Master of None" star Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win the award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus won the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series the sixth time in a row for "Veep". Sterling K. Brown of "This Is Us" became the first black man to win Outstanding Lead Actor In a Drama in 19 years.

--IANS

rb/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ryan International School in Bhondsi, which reopened on Monday after 10 days after a Class 2 student was found murdered in the washroom of the school, will remain closed for another week, the school authorities announced.

"It has been decided to close Ryan International School, Bhondsi, till Friday. Classes will start from Monday, September 25. Till then safety concerns of the school will be addressed," Deputy Director of Public Relation RS Sangwan said in his statement issued on Monday evening.

The Ryan International School, where a seven-year-old boy was found murdered inside a washroom on September 8, reopened on Monday after the Haryana government suspended the management and appointed Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh as its new administrator.

The media has been barred from entering the school premises in Bhondsi, on Sohna road, as it can cause "undue disturbances".

The government has ordered a CBI inquiry into the killing of Pradhuman Thakur of Class 2 who was found with his throat slit inside the school washroom within an hour after his father dropped him there.

The father, Varun Chandra Thakur, has moved the Supreme Court over his son's murder, demanding that the school should remain closed until the CBI completes its probe into his son's murder. He said there was a possibility of evidence tampering with the re-opening of the school.

Thakur says that reopening the school will erase all evidence about the case.
Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP/Getty Images(MARSEILLE, France) -- One day after four Boston College students were attacked with acid in Marseille, France, the college students are doing well and have offered forgiveness to their alleged attacker, according to police and the university.

The attack on the four students, all American women, occurred around 11 a.m. Sunday at the Saint-Charles train station in Marseille, Marseille police said.

Authorities arrested the suspect, a 41-year-old woman, who police said has a history of mental illness.

The attack was not terror-related, police added.

Two of the students suffered facial injuries from the hydrochloric acid and were taken to a Marseille hospital, police said.

They were treated for burns and released on Sunday, according to Boston College.

The other two students were not physically injured but were treated for shock at the scene by emergency services, Marseille police told ABC News.

Boston College spokesman Jack Dunn told ABC affiliate WCVB in Boston on Sunday evening, "All of us at [Boston College] are surprised. Weve been sending students to Europe for decades and have a dozen students in France this semester."

Boston College says the students involved are all juniors: Kelsey Kosten, who is currently studying at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, and Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman and Michelle Krug, who are all enrolled in the college's Paris program.

The school said in a statement Monday that the students "are doing well."

"The students say they plan to remain in Europe for their studies and offered forgiveness to the woman who sprayed them with an acid solution outside of the train station in Marseille," BC said.

Dunn said in the statement, "We are very proud of our students and the gracious manner in which they have handled themselves throughout this ordeal."

"The BC community is here to provide whatever support and assistance they need," Dunn added.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved
The Ryan International School, where a seven-year-old boy was found murdered inside a washroom on September 8, reopened on Monday after the Haryana government suspended the management and appointed Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh as its new administrator

The media have been barred from entering the school premises in Bhondsi on Sohna road as it can cause "undue disturbances".

The government has ordered a CBI inquiry into the killing of Pradhuman Thakur of Class 2 who was found with his throat slit inside the school within an hour after his father dropped him there.

The father, Varun Chandra Thakur, has moved the Supreme Court over his son's murder, demanding that the school should remain closed until the CBI completes its probe into his son's murder.

He said there was a possibility of evidence tampering with the re-opening of the school.

--IANS

pradeep/in/sar/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Telangana government on Monday began distribution of free sarees as a Bathukamma flower festival gift but it created a controversy over their alleged poor quality after women threw them away or set them on fire at some places in the state.

While the government held the opposition parties responsible for the burning of sarees, police registered cases against those involved. Police in Bhongir town booked 18 persons, including a Congress leader and his wife.

Under the scheme, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi government aims to distribute 1.04 crore sarees worth Rs 222 crore as festival gifts. It claimed 25 lakh sarees were distributed through 10,000 centres on the first day.

Textiles Minister K.T. Rama Rao told reporters that women who received sarees did not set them on fire. If women don't like sarees, they would keep them aside but never burn them, he said.

Rama Rao, son of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, alleged that since the opposition parties were not able to digest the government's popularity they were resorting to dirty tricks.

While women threw the sarees away or set them afire at some places, at other places they complained they were given polyster sarees of poor quality even though the government had announced sarees procured from weavers would be distributed.

Commissioner of Textiles Sailaja Ramaiyyer denied that the sarees were of poor quality. She said around 52 lakh sarees were procured from Telangana weavers whereas the remaining were procured from Surat and other cities due to shortage of time.

The sarees, in 500 designs and colours, would be distributed till September 20.

All women aged 18 and above and belonging to families holding white ration cards are eligible for the free sarees.

The government said the procurement of sarees from state weavers would help provide work to them.

--IANS

ms/tsb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A cure for cancer may be on the anvil as a British scientist has proposed to carry out pioneering research that may discover how cancer "steals the keys" from the body's locksmiths.

For the research, Mathew Coleman, a senior lecturer at the University of Birmingham, will receive 1.4 million pounds over six years from Cancer Research UK.

His study, to be conducted on both human tissue and cells donated by cancer patients, will focus on three specific proteins, which are all enzymes that act as "locksmiths" and play a range of roles, including controlling energy production, cell growth and cell function.

When these proteins become faulty, it can affect their functioning, spiralling them both as well as the cells out of control.

Usually, these enzymes -- called oxygenases -- work by attaching an oxygen molecule to specific parts of other proteins, which generally turns them on.

Once turned on, it unlocks processes in a cell that ensure it develops normally and that everything is properly controlled.

"We have found that these enzyme locksmiths become faulty in cancer, meaning they're unable to attach oxygen molecules to other proteins properly," Coleman said, in a statement on Monday.

"This means the door remains shut, and certain processes are locked out. We think that this can lead to abnormal cell growth and function, which can lead to cancer," Coleman noted.

Importantly, this locked out feature has the potential to have a domino effect which can disrupt cell growth and function, causing cells to go awry and turn cancerous.

Understanding the workings of these oxygenases may lead to new targetted treatments for cancer patients, the researchers said.

"If we can find out more about how oxygenases become faulty and the consequences of this in cancer cells, we may be able to identify and develop new drugs that target the cellular processes they control," Coleman said.

--IANS

rt/qd/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has warned that the United States potential withdrawal from a multilateral nuclear deal with Iran would constitute a clear non-performance of contractual obligations by Washington.

Speaking at a meeting of Iranian expatriates in New York, where he is to attend the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), President Rouhani said Iran would give "the due response" to any such violation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

"Withdrawing from the JCPOA would mean trampling on a clear political obligation that a government has. This is nothing to be proud of," Press TV cited Rouhani as saying on Sunday.

He said Iranian people have always lived up to their word throughout history but added that Iran would honour its obligations under the JCPOA as long as the other side honours its.

"We will never initiate a violation of the international agreement, but if the other side wishes to assault the rights of the Iranian people, Iran will certainly give the due response," the Iranian President said.

The JCPOA was struck in July 2015, after some 22 months of negotiations between Iran and six other countries. Iran agreed under the deal to apply certain limits to its nuclear programme, and its partners -- the US, Russia, China, Germany, France, and Britain -- agreed in return to terminate a series of sanctions against Tehran, including those unilaterally imposed by individual countries.

When the presidency in the US switched to the incumbent, Donald Trump, a year after the implementation of the Iran deal had begun, his administration started actively seeking a pretext to withdraw.

It has found none, but has nevertheless signalled that it may not offer to the US Congress verification of Iranian compliance necessary to renew waivers of unilateral, American sanctions against Iran at a next deadline in mid-October.

The Congress would then have 60 days to decide whether to continue to waive the sanctions, although it would be unlikely to do so without a White House verification.

In New York, President Rouhani said "whether the US is happy or worried", the JCPOA is to stay in political history as a sign of how complex international issues can be resolved via dialog.

During his stay in America, the Iranian President plans to meet world leaders and possibly discuss with them the JCPOA and the US stance, the Iranian TV reported.

--IANS

ahm/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The South Korean government reiterated on Monday the need to send humanitarian aid to North Korea despite the increased sanctions on the regime for its increased nuclear tests.

Unification Ministry spokesperson Baik Tae-hyun said that aid shipments "should be continued regardless of the political situation", reports Efe news.

Baik also said that a majority of the international community also maintains the same position with the Seoul government on the issue.

The announcement came three days before South Korea is set to decide on the approval of the $8 million food aid scheme, which will be channelled through the UN agencies and will mainly go to women and children in North Korea.

South Korea's conservative opposition has questioned the humanitarian assistance scheme to North Korea in the wake of the international community's sanctions to curb Pyongyang's weapons development programs.

Former President Park Geun-hye's conservative administration had suspended humanitarian aid to the North following the regime's fourth nuclear test in January 2016.

The South Korea's aid scheme, if approved, will be the first humanitarian aid sent to Pyongyang through the UN since December 2015.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
South Africa will sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons next week during the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, officials said.

President Jacob Zuma will ink the treaty on behalf of South Africa on September 20, presidential spokesperson Bongani Ngqulunga said on Sunday.

"Signature of the treaty reflects South Africa's continued commitment towards the achievement of a world free from the threat posed by nuclear weapons," Xinhua news agency quoted Ngqulunga as saying.

This will ensure that nuclear energy is used for peaceful purposes only, he added.

The Presidency issued the statement as Zuma arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly session which is under the theme: "Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for all on a Sustainable Planet."

This will be the first General Debate for the newly appointed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who started his term on January 1, 2017.

South Africa fully supports Guterres who identifies his major priority as the achievement of sustainable peace and security through conflict prevention by establishing a "culture of prevention" in the UN, Ngqulunga said.

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, or the Nuclear Weapon Ban Treaty, is the first legally binding international agreement to comprehensively prohibit nuclear weapons, with the goal of leading towards their total elimination. It was passed on July 7, 2017.

South Africa, the only country in the world to dismantle nuclear weapons it developed, has already been a signatory of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons since 1991.

--IANS

vgu/

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A court on Monday turned down Malayalam actor Dileep's fourth bail plea in the actress abduction case even as the Kerala High Court posted for next week the anticipatory bail pleas of his actress-wife as well as actor-director Nadir Shah.

Dileep was questioned twice and arrested soon after the second round of questioning on July 10 on charges of conspiracy.

His wife Kavya Madhavan was questioned once and Shah twice. Both approached the High Court last week for anticipatory bail.

The Magistrate's Court in Angamaly had heard Dileep's bail plea and the prosecution on Saturday and reserved the order for Monday. It is the second time the Angamaly court has turned down Dileep's plea. The High Court too had dismissed his bail plea twice.

During hearing on Shah's bail plea, the High Court on Monday asked the prosecution to file relevant details pertaining to his questioning in a sealed cover and posted the case for September 25.

The court directive came after police said the probe against him was on and that it required more time.

Likewise, the court asked for prosecution's response while hearing Madhavan's petition and posted the case for a future date. It is likely to come up next week.

Shah was questioned on Sunday for the second time for over four hours, whereas Madhavan was questioned last month.

The actress was abducted on February 18 while she was on way from Thrissur to Kochi. She was taken around in her vehicle forcibly for about two hours before she was dumped near actor-director Lal's home, from where police was informed.

Key accused Pulsar Suni and his accomplices were arrested a week later. Dileep was arrested following detailed questioning of the accused.

--IANS

sg/tsb/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday said it has arrested a person here suspected to have links with proscribed Islamic State terrorist organisation.

In a statement, the NIA said Shakul Hameed, a city resident, was arrested here by its Chief Investigation Officer.

According to the statement, the main accused Haja Fakkurudeen, a Singaporean citizen of Indian origin and native of Cuddalore district in Tamil Nadu, has joined IS in Syria during January, 2014, along with his family.

Fakkurudeen had visited India twice between November 2013 and January 2014, when he had allegedly conducted conspiracy meetings along with co-accused Khaja Moideen, Hameed and others at various places in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka with the intention of recruiting more persons into the IS.

According to NIA, in pursuance of the conspiracy, Hameed had attempted to migrate to IS-controlled territory in Syria during August 2015, through Turkey, where he was intercepted by Turkish authorities and deported back to India.

--IANS

vj/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tech giant Google on Monday joined the bandwagon of Unified Payment Interface (UPI) -based payment apps launching its "Tez" app.

Tez, which means fast in Hindi, is a standalone payments app that can be downloaded on Android and iOS devices.

It is based on UPI -- a payments protocol built by government-backed National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI).

Apart from English and Hindi, "Tez" app supports various Indian languages such as Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu.

The user interface is fairly simple and the user is asked to sign into the application using the mobile number that is registered with the bank account.

The user then receives an OTP via SMS and the registration is completed after an email id is provided.

The app lets the user pay bills, send money and receive payments directly into their bank accounts (after the app is linked to their bank account to verify ownership).

There is also an option to send a text message from their registered phone number through Google "Tez" app.

The user is then asked to add a UPI PIN and then they can start making payments.

They can also view a list of their friends who are using the app and request and pay money.

To ensure the security of the user, "Tez" makes use of either Google's 4-digit security PIN or screen/pattern lock to open the app each time.

The app's "Cash Mode" works quite like the NFC feature and lets the user send or receive payments to anyone nearby without sharing details such as their bank account number or mobile number.

The app makes use of QR scan and lets the user make or receive payments after they find the other user.

Google also announced "Tez for Business" which offers businesses new ways to unlock the potential of digital payments and engage their customers.

"Tez for Business" merchants get their own business channel on the app where they can engage directly with their customers to share offers, send payment reminders, link to their mobile website or customer support, and more.

Online businesses can integrate the "Payment Request API" so that they can securely accept UPI payments using 'Tez' on their mobile websites with just a few taps.

--IANS

ksc/na/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Donald Trump administration is considering closing the recently-reopened US embassy in Havana after 21 Americans associated with the mission experienced a host of unexplained health problems, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has said.

"It's a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered," Tillerson said during an appearance on CBS's "Face the Nation" on Sunday. "We've brought some of those people home. It's under review."

The American Foreign Service Association reported earlier that the symptoms among those affected included mild traumatic brain injury, permanent hearing loss, loss of balance, severe headaches and brain swelling.

Several US officials believe some kind of device was used to undermine their staff health while some blame the health problems on a "sonic attack". Cuba denies any involvement, the report said.

Despite an investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Cuban authorities, there is still no full explanation as to the cause of the incidents since late 2016.

Cuban President Raul Castro reportedly gave his personal assurance to the then US Charge d'Affaires in Havana that Cuba was not behind the attacks.

The US reopened its embassy in Havana in 2015 following decades of frozen relations. In 2016, President Barack Obama became the first incumbent US President to visit Cuba since Calvin Coolidge in 1928.

Meanwhile, talking about the Paris climate accord, Tillerson hinted that the US could stay in the deal under "right conditions".

"Under the right conditions, the President said he's open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others in what we all agree is a challenging issue," said the Secretary of State.

Tillerson's remarks were in line with previous statements from the US State Department which said the US is "open to re-engaging in the Paris Agreement if the US can identify terms that are more favourable to it, its business, its workers, its people, and its taxpayers".

US President Donald Trump on June 1 announced his decision to withdraw from Paris Agreement, citing concerns about the accord's threat to the US economy as a main reason for the withdrawal.

--IANS

soni/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tamil Nadu Governor Vidyasagar Rao on Monday met President Ram Nath Kovind and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley amid a lingering political crisis in the state.

Rao, who has been urged by opposition parties and dissident AIADMK MLAs to immediately convene the assembly to enable a floor test, is yet to take a decision on when to ask Chief Minister E. Palaniswami to face a trial of strength.

Rao's visit to Delhi came as Speaker P. Dhanapal disqualified 18 MLAs owing allegiance to rebel AIADMK leader T.T.V. Dinakaran, giving an edge to the ruling side in the numbers game in the assembly.

--IANS

spk-sk/vsc/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ruling AIADMK's 18 legislators loyal to sidelined Deputy General Secretary T.T.V. Dinakaran have been disqualified under the anti-defection law by the Tamil Nadu Speaker, a statement said on Monday.

In the statement issued by the state assembly, Speaker P. Dhanapal ordered "disqualification of 18 lawmakers under the anti-defection law from 18.9.2017 onwards".

A total of 19 AIADMK lawmakers had submitted a letter to Governor C.V. Rao withdrawing their support to Chief Minister K. Palaniswami. They asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new Chief Minister.

Following which AIADMK's Chief Whip S. Rajendran wrote to Dhanapal to disqualify the 19 MLAs who have rebelled against Palaniswami.

On his part Dhanapal issued notices to the 19 lawmakers as to why they should not be disqualified under the anti-defection law.

Subsequently one of the lawmakers S.T.K. Jakkaiyan switched over to the Palaniswami-side.

--IANS

vj/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court on Monday was told that Gurugram Bar Association has withdrawn its resolution asking its members not to represent accused officials of Ryan Public School in the case of the death of Class 2 student Pradhyuman Thakur after the top court described the resolution as "erroneous in law".

Asking the Special judge of Gurugram to deal with the matter, the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M.Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y.Chandrachud said that "tradition does not authorises any bar association to pass such a resolution".

"The tradition of the Bar and the fundamental conception pertaining to access to justice does not permit any Bar Association to pass a resolution of the nature that had been done. However, the solace is that after realising the fault, the Bar Association has withdrawn the resolution. It is a redeeming act," the bench said in its order.

Referring to the assurance of the GBA that none of its members would create any kind of hindrance or obstruction for the smooth hearing of the case by special judge dealing with cases under POCSO Act, the top court said: "Despite the aforesaid assurance we are obliged to direct that none of the members of the Bar shall create any kind of impediment in the ingress and regress of any counsel representing the petitioner."

Making it clear in no uncertain terms, the court said in its order, "...It shall be the responsibility of the office bearers of the Bar to see to it that the order is complied with in entirety because any deviation shall be seriously dealt with."

The court stressed that "an accused, whatever the offence may be, has the inherent right to be represented by a counsel of his choice".

Taking note of the Gurugram Bar Association withdrawing its resolution, the court disposed of petition by Francis Thomas, the arrested north zone administrator of Ryan Public School, seeking the transfer of trial from Gurugram to Delhi.

The court said that trial in the matter would continue in Gurugram court itself.

Senior counsel K.T.S.Tulsi, appearing for Thomas, had mentioned the matter for an early hearing on September 13, telling the court that the defence lawyers going from Delhi also faced hostility in the Sohna court.

--IANS

pk/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump once again mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, calling him "Rocket Man", an allusion to Pyongyang's recent nuclear tests, as well as speaking ironically about the "long ... lines" of people waiting to get fuel in the nation after the sanctions imposed by the UN.

"I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!" wrote Trump on his Twitter account on Sunday.

The reference to the gas lines was made, evidently, as an allusion to the sanctions imposed last week by the international body on North Korea after Pyongyang's recent missile tests, Efe news reported.

The latest sanctions include a reduction in the amount of petroleum that Pyongyang may import, although the true impact on the North Korean economy has not yet been confirmed.

Moon and Trump agreed on the need to fully implement the sanctions so that North Korea understands that continuing with its weapons testing will only result in its increasing diplomatic isolation and additional economic pressure, which will -- in all likelihood -- ultimately lead to the regime's "collapse", the South Korean President's Office said.

The conversation between the two leaders came after Pyongyang's launching on Friday of another long-range missile, which overflew Japanese territory before landing harmlessly in the Pacific.

Moon and Trump agreed to place additional pressure on North Korea, including implementing the new batch of sanctions unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council this past week, a response to Pyongyang's sixth and most power nuclear test on September 3.

--IANS

vgu/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Pakistan Foreign Minister will upbraid the US for its new Afghanistan policy at the UN General Assembly next week, saying the Trump administration is following a militaristic approach that has already failed.

Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told the Wall Street Journal that he could not understand how the American military could succeed now in Afghanistan when it had not during the "surge" under the Barack Obama administration with a force eight times as large as the one now planned.

He instead called for peace talks with the Taliban, which could be arranged if Washington worked with countries in the region that have influence over the group.

"They are pursuing a folly, a strategy that has already failed," Asif told the American paper. "Force will not solve any problem, it has not solved problems in the past," Asif said.

Pakistan's cooperation is vital to the effort to stabilise neighbouring Afghanistan and extricating America from its longest war. The US and Pakistan are ostensible allies, but have long suffered strained ties.

Relations turned more confrontational after President Donald Trump accused Pakistan in August of providing a haven for terrorists and then threatening to withhold aid if there was not better cooperation.

Trump had said that a political settlement with elements of the Taliban is "perhaps" possible, but only after an effective US military campaign.

Asif subsequently cancelled a trip to the US for talks with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Islamabad also rejected a planned visit to Pakistan by the senior US official for the Pakistan-Afghanistan region, Alice Wells.

Asif toured the region, visiting US adversaries in China, Iran and Turkey, saying afterward that they agreed that a political solution was needed. Asif said he would meet at the UN his Russian counterpart to get Moscow on board with this plan.

"I think Americans should be more realistic and more pragmatic about their approach in Afghanistan," said Asif. "They have already lost more than 40 per cent of territory to the Taliban. How do you keep on fighting with them?"

--IANS

ahm/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May was bound for Canada on Monday, where she will meet her counterpart Justin Trudeau to discuss future bilateral trade and investment options for her country after it pulls out of the European Union.

May's visit comes ahead of the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) coming into force on September 21. The PM said she hopes to use CETA as the model for a bilateral trade deal for when the UK is excluded from it after Brexit, BBC reported.

She said the two countries held "shared values". The visit was about "looking ahead to our bright future" and both nations shared "ambitions to lead on the world stage and progressive values", including free trade and respect for international law, May said.

Under the EU-Canada agreement, which took seven years to negotiate, Canada agreed to eliminate 98 per cent of its import duties. May and Trudeau were expected to set up a new joint working group to prepare the groundwork for a separate deal, the report said.

Under EU membership rules, Britain is prohibited from implementing a foreign free trade agreement until it leaves, so it has instead set up working groups abroad, including with Japan, the US and Australia.

Speaking ahead of her visit, May said: "When we come together and work as one to project our shared values on the world stage, we form a powerful union.

"My visit to Canada today is not only about recognising our past but also looking ahead to our bright future."

The UK-Canada bilateral trade relationship is thought to be worth 15.2 billion euros a year, while Britain is the second biggest destination for Canadian investment abroad, with 1.75 billion euros invested in the country since March.

May's visit comes ahead of a trip to the Italian city of Florence later in the week, where she is set to deliver a speech on Brexit.

--IANS

soni/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that the US could stay in the Paris Agreement on climate change under right conditions.

"Under the right conditions, the President said he's open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others in what we all agree is a challenging issue," said Tillerson in an interview with CBS on Sunday.

Tillerson's remarks were in line with previous statements from the US State Department which said that the US is "open to re-engaging in the Paris Agreement if the US can identify terms that are more favourable to it, its business, its workers, its people, and its taxpayers", Xinhua news agency reported.

US President Donald Trump on June 1 announced his decision to withdraw from Paris Agreement, citing concerns about the accord's threat to the US economy as a main reason for the withdrawal.

"The cost to the economy at this time (by 2040) would be close to $3 trillion in lost GDP and 6.5 million industrial jobs," said Trump then, citing figures from a disputed study commissioned by the American Council for Capital Formation and the US Chamber of Commerce, both known for lobbying against climate regulations.

The decision to withdraw fulfilled a crucial campaign promise by Trump, who once called climate change "a hoax".

In his first budget request, Trump also proposed a 31 per cent reduction in funding the US Environment Protection Agency.

Yet, despite his decision to leave the Paris Agreement, Trump would stick to the four-year-long withdrawal process stipulated by the Paris Agreement, which means that the US withdrawal won't take effect till November 2020, about two months away from the end of his first term.

--IANS

vgu/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A team of experts from India and Sweden has flagged concerns over uncontrolled dumping of partly treated/untreated urban waste into rivers -- leading to the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Drawing attention to pollution of water courses from domestic waste, they found that antibiotic resistance genes were significantly more abundant in river sediments collected from the city than from upstream sites.

"The growing resistance amongst bacterial pathogens limits our ability to treat infections. Environment plays an important role in transmission of bacterial pathogens and bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes (ARG)," Nachiket P. Marathe at the Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, told IANS via email.

"Hospital environments have been extensively studied in this perspective, but there is limited data on risks posed by external environment like river on transmission of antibiotic resistance gene carrying bacteria, Marathe said about the study published in Water Research in July.

Marathe and his colleagues from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden and Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, examined the effect of domestic waste pollution on river microflora. Chandan Pal, Swapnil S.Gaikwad, Viktor Jonsson, Erik Kristiansson and Joakim Larsson are the study co-authors.

Sediment samples were collected along Mutha river flowing through Pune in India-at upstream sites as well as locations within the city.

To get a better understanding of total bacteria and resistance genes present in the samples, DNA sequencing method (shotgun metagenomics) was applied.

Overall total antibiotic resistance genes were "30 times more abundant in river sediments from the city compared to upstream sites."

This implied that domestic wastes pollution is enriching the river with bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes and river sediments from within the city contain antibiotic resistance genes which can be transferred between bacterial species.

What is more worrying is that some of the bacterial antibiotic-resistance genes detected in the study defend them against last resort drugs (the last choice for treatment), for example, carbapenems.

India, in its National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) 2017 - 2021, says the emergence of resistance is not only limited to the older and more frequently used classes of drugs, but there has also been a rapid increase in resistance to the newer and more expensive drugs, like carbapenems.

Carbapenems are broad spectrum antibiotics and regarded as the ago-to' drugs for serious infections, especially when multi-drug resistant organisms are a concern.

The samples showed the presence of all the clinically important carbapenemases-enzymes found in pathogenic bacteria that degrade carbapenems. These enzymes help in conferring resistance against the drug.

"Carbapenems are used for treatment when penicillins (eg. amoxicillin, ampicillin) and cephalosporins (eg. Cefepime, cefadroxil) don't work. Resistance against carbapenems leaves very few drugs for treating these bacterial infections. Hence, finding these genes in the environment is a big concern," cautioned Marathe.

This apart, the sediments also feature the multi-drug resistance bacterial genus Acinetobacter.

According to Joakim Larsson, senior author of the study, professor and director of the Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research in Gothenburg, the observance in the Pune river is probably not an exception, but it is "likely a rather common situation" in India.

"Without very large investments in sewage infrastructure, Indian rivers will unfortunately remain transmission routes for infectious diseases, including being an important reservoir of multi-resistant bacteria. This, in turn, infers increase in morbidity and associated costs to society. Current initiatives to clean up Indian rivers are good, but probably need even more momentum," Larsson told IANS.

Marathe contends that in addition to efficient sewage treatment options, one needs to factor in the population as well.

"In cities especially, we produce more waste than the capacity for sewage treatment and hence the pollution," he said.

Outlining the route of transmission, Marathe points to the vicious cycle.

"The river water is used by the villages downstream of the city as drinking water (with some preliminary treatment) and also for irrigation. Domestic animals and sometimes humans are swimming in the river.

"During monsoon floods, the river water enters the streets and houses (in some cases). This would facilitate transmission of these bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes (including pathogens) back to humans. This might eventually lead to increase in infections with antibiotic resistant bacteria," he added.

(Sahana Ghosh can be contacted at sahana.g@ians.in)

--IANS

sgh/ssp/vm/tb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping spoke over phone on Monday and discussed the visit of American President later this year and the escalating crisis in Korean Peninsula.

According to China's official news agency Xinhua, Xi told Trump that Beijing attaches great importance to his state visit.

Xi also called on both sides to work closely so as to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of Sino-US relations.

Both leaders also discussed the worsening situation in Korean Peninsula, the late night dispatch from the state agency said.

US was for more punitive actions against North Korea for which so far has conducted six nuclear test, the latest in September and also accused China being indulgent towards its ally.A

However, China has called from restraint and says that it does not hold the key to the Korean crisis which it did not even create.

The Chinese leader said that he is happy to keep in contact with the US leader on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern.

For his part, Trump said he is looking forward to his visit to China, hoping that the trip can strongly move bilateral ties forward.

--IANS

gsh/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Apropos PM inaugurates Sardar Saravor Dam; calls it engineering marvel (September 18), the controversial project on the Narmada, the largest and most expensive such project in the country, is considered by many environmentalists, academics, economists and activists as the largest planned ecological disaster. Though its proponents claimed it as the most studied river valley project, comprehensive environmental impact assessment had not reportedly been done. Besides, major conditionality set down by the Ministry of Environment and Forests have allegedly been unheeded.
Home Minister said on Monday that anti-national elements have been trying to foment tension in the society by posting unverified information on social media and asked people not to forward such messages without verification. Singh, after launching the intelligence wing of the Sahastra Seema Bal (SSB), told the jawans that information and news, that was completely wrong or having no basis, was being regularly circulated on social media such as WhatsApp and many people consider it to to be true. Some days back, Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah had also cautioned supporters not to trust all that they read on the social media. The BJP has used social media, particularly WhatsApp, effectively in its election campaigns but there are indications of increasingly negative social media narrative against the Narendra Modi government in the wake of poor economic growth and steep petrol and diesel prices.
Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor came, he saw, he conquered the media. For a year following his exit as RBI governor, Dr Rajan had chosen to maintain silence on the Indian economy. During his recent visit to India, it was hard to open a newspaper or switch on a channel without seeing an interview with him.
Eighteen rebel AIADMK MLAs loyal to sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran were today disqualified under the anti-defection law, a move that may enable the Palaniswami government to prove its majority in the event of a floor test.

While Dhinakaran said his MLAs will approach the court challenging their disqualification that came as a setback to his camp in the tussle for power in the ruling party, the opposition led by the DMK dubbed the Speaker's action as a "murder of democracy".

The opposition alleged that the action was an attempt aimed at ensuring majority in the assembly with the DMK demanding the resignation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami and the Speaker.

"Our MLAs will move the court and we will get justice," Dhin karan told reporters in Kancheepuram district.

The action by Speaker P Dhanapal against the MLAs, who have been seeking the ouster of Palaniswami, has reduced the effective strength of the Assembly from 234 to 215, by also taking into account a pre-existing vacancy.

Subject to any intervention by the court, the government would now need the support of 108 MLAs--the half-way mark-- for a simple majority in the event of a floor test, a demand by the opposition parties.

After a meeting of AIADMK legislators convened by Palaniswami on September 5, senior leader and Minister D Jayakumar had claimed that 111 of the 134 party MLAs reposed faith in the chief minister.

DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress eight and IUML one.

Today's decision by Dhanapal was taken under the assembly anti-defection and disqualification rules of 1986 formed in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, Assembly Secretary K Bhoopathy said in a statement.

The Speaker was acting on a petition submitted by the Government Chief Whip last month seeking disqualification of 19 MLAs after they met Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao and withdrew their support to the chief minister last month. Governor Rao, meanwhile, met President Ram Nath Kovind in Delhi.

After the proceedings were initiated, MLA SKT Jakkaiyan had switched over to Palaniswami camp.

The MLAs who were disqualified are Thangatamilselvan, R Murugan, Mariappan Kennedy, K Kathirkamu, C Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P Palaniappan, V Senthil Balaji, S Muthiah, P Vetrivel, NG Parthiban, M Kothandapani, TA Elumalai, M Rengasamy, R Thangadurai, R Balasubramani, SG Subramanian, R Sundarraj and K Uma Maheswari.

Of the three MLAs who are allies of AIADMK, S Karunas has extended support to Dhinakaran. The stand of two others U Thaniyarasu (Tamil Nadu Kongu Ilaignar Peravai) and M Thamimun Ansari (Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi) is not known.

The pro-Dhinakaran MLAs had met the Governor on August 22 a day after the formal merger of the two factions led by Palaniswami and then rebel leader and now Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam.

Earlier, Chief Government Whip S Rajendran had urged the Speaker to disqualify the MLAs for "anti-party activities" following their revolt against the chief minister.

Though the Speaker had issued notices to all the dissident MLAs seeking their individual presence, they had, however, not turned up.

The disqualification proceedings also echoed in the Madras High Court last week when it stayed the conduct of a floor test till September 20.

The interim order was passed on Sept 14 on petitions by DMK and one of the rebel MLAs, who had apprehended the Speaker might disqualify the legislators.

They had contended that this may go in favour of the chief minister in case of a floor test.

DMK working president M K Stalin demanded resignation of Palaniswami and Dhanapal.

Stalin, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, described the disqualification as "a brutal murder of democracy."



He said the Speaker "has lost the moral right to continue in his office," and sought his "immediate resignation."



He demanded Palaniswami quit office on his own for allegedly trying to hold a floor test through "horse-trading," and "illegal disqualification."



In a statement, the DMK leader alleged the government was not in a position to prove its majority and the present action was a "short-cut" towards achieving it.

Stalin claimed that the present disqualification went against the anti-defection law and a verdict of the Supreme Court, citing the case involving former Karnataka chief minister B S Yeddyurappa.

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, PMK, VCK, CPI(M) were among other parties that denounced the disqualification.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh is remembered by veterans of the India-Pakistan 1965 war as a chief who led from the front and went from unit to unit, congratulating his men for their successes or boosting their morale on losses.

Arjan Singh, they recalled, did not command his force from his distant headquarters but went to units to communicate with the men.

Wing Commander (Retd) Vinod Nebb was in Halwara in Punjab when the then Air Chief, Arjan Singh, came calling. The top officer met Nebb and wanted to know the details of how he shot down an F-86 Sabre of the Pakistan Air Force.

"We didn't go beyond our commanding officer and seldom met our station commander. Therefore, for a small fry like me, then a Flying Officer, it was a great honour that the man flew down from Delhi to Halwara in his Canberra, a bomber aircraft," Nebb told PTI over the phone.

Arjan Singh, he said, wanted to hear every little detail about how he brought the aircraft down.

"He wanted to know everything about my kill. It was amazing. Anybody would give his right arm for him, there is no question about it. The man was great," Nebb said.

Nebb has two Vir Chakras to his credit, one for claiming the Pakistani fighter jet in 1965 and another for his feats during the 1971 war.

Another war hero said the IAF icon felt for his airmen from the heart, particularly the men he lost, and always condoled with their families.

"There was not a place he didn't visit right in the thick of the war. He would go wherever there was activity. And then he used to meet each and everyone down the line. It was remarkable," said Wing Commander (Retd) Jagmohan Nath.

Nath, a double Maha Vir Chakra awardee and one of the most decorated officers of his time, said he was a man "who felt for the defence services from the heart", particularly for IAF pilots who were killed or injured.

"He would visit their families and widows. Never did he forget them. He was a remarkable person. I can't praise him enough," Nath, who was involved in reconnaissance operations in 1965, told PTI.

Arjan Singh put the interest and safety of his airmen before his own. Close friend and former Air Chief Marshal NC Suri recalled a habit that the Marshal had which underlined this.

"He was on Canberra bombers and the peculiarity in this aircraft was that the pilot has an ejection seat but the navigator had to jump out of the aircraft. But Marshal Arjan Singh refused to take the pin out of the ejection seat before taking off. In other words, he was also incapable of ejecting," Suri, who was at Halwara during the war, said.

He added, "So here is a man who felt that his navigator was equally important to him, which was very remarkable."



Former Air Marshal Denzil Keelor said perhaps it was Arjan Singh's experience during World War II as a young IAF officer that turned him into a quintessential "field" man.

"He reached out to everyone down the hierarchy in the field. He knew all the pilots' names, he knew me by my first name," he said.

And this, he held, was because of Arjan Singh's WWII experience.

"Once you take part in a war you become a field man and that was the kind of man he was," he said.

Keelor and his late brother Trevor Keelor are famously referred to as the Keelor brothers, who were honoured with a Vir Chakra each for shooting down the superior Sabres.

Arjan Singh, 98, died on Saturday. His body was cremated with full state honours today.

But old fighters never die -- pin or no pin.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today dismissed a plea seeking a direction to the Centre to provide the files on the basis of which the services of some army officers, caught for allegedly spying for Pakistan in 1978 in the infamous Samba spy case, were terminated.

Between August 1978 and January 1979, several army officers were arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan in the Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir between 1972 and 1978.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said that a three-judge bench of the top court has already decided the matter in 2014.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for those officials, told the bench that a division bench of Delhi High Court had in 2010, while setting aside the termination order of former officers Major SP Sharma, Captain Arun Sharma, Major Ajwani and Major R K Midha, had held that the action taken against them was bad in law.

He said that thereafter the matter came to the apex court and a three-judge bench had upheld the Centre's decision to terminate the services of army officers while overturning the high court's verdict.

Bhushan claimed that the government had shown some files to the three-judge bench to buttress their arguments that these Army officers were Pakistani spies but these were not made available to them.

"I am not challenging the termination of service at all," he said, adding, "at least those files should be shown to these officials".

"This is a huge stigma. Please give us an opportunity to restore our honour," he said, while referring to a book by a former chief of Intelligence Bureau (IB) who had said that the case was doubtful.

He alleged that the case was based on false testimonies of two persons and there was no evidence against the officers whose services were terminated.

"The petitioners have a right to access the documents on the basis of which they have been defamed, their reputation has been tarnished and on the basis of which the judgment of the High Court of Delhi was set aside by this Court.

"Denial of documents which gravely concern and affect the petitioners is not only in violation of Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution but the same is also subversive of rule of law and democracy," the plea said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The police gunned down two Naxals in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, a senior official said today.

A team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on an anti-Maoist operation last night and advancing through Rasantong area, around 500 kms from here, when the Naxals started firing on them, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Dantewada range) Sundarraj P told PTI.

This led to a gun battle between the two sides, he said.

"After theexchange of fire stopped, bodies of two cadres clad in 'uniform' were recovered from the spot," the DIG said.

The police also recovered a 12 bore gun, a muzzle loading gun, 13 detonators, a radio set, a wireless set, codex wire, a couple of batteries, solar plates and some Maoist-related material from the spot, he said.

The identity of the killed ultras was yet to be established, he said.

However, preliminary investigation suggested that they were members of the Golapalli local organisation squad of the Maoists, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij today said that 35 medical tests would be conducted free of cost under the first-of-its-kind medical scheme to be soon launched in the state.

Vij, who was presiding over a review meeting of the Health department, said the scheme would generate detailed reports of various diseases afflicting the people living in different parts of the state, an official release quoting him said.

The entire state would be divided into four to five zones and different agencies would be directed to conduct tests and put the record online. A hard copy of the test report would also be given to the person concerned so that he can use it for getting a proper treatment, it said.

Complete data would be made available on mobile app of the department so that people can use this information, it added.

Vij said mobile checking vans equipped with all facilities and doctors would be deployed for this purpose.

The vans would reach people at their doorsteps and conduct blood, TB, liver, cancer, blood pressure and diabetes tests. This would lead to an early detection of diseases and people can be cured timely.

Based on the data gathered, the state government would take a call on the future course of action. A committee of doctors would be constituted to prepare a lay-out plan of different tests.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
South Indian actor Mohanlal has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to be part of the Centre's 'Swachhata Hi Seva' movement, saying he dedicates himself to the "great and noble cause."



The national award winning actor, in a Facebook post, said, "To be a responsible citizen, everyone needs to be proud of their nation first and should understand that the "country is our home and home is our identity."



The actor also wished the Prime Minister on his birthday in another post.

"I support 'Swachhata Hi Seva' movement and dedicate myself to this great and noble cause...Let's Build a New (clean) India," Mohanlal said without mentioning directly about the PM's invitation.

Stressing the need to keep the nation clean, he said, "So that each one of us live in a clean environment and our guests (the people who visit us from other countries) are happy to be with us."



The 'Vanaprastham' actor said, "I think, no other day is better than the birth anniversary day of our Father of Nation when we should promise ourselves and our home that we will keep it clean forever and never make it dirty in future".

Lal also expressed hope that the country would light up more this Diwali than all the previous years "if we pledge to keep our home clean from this day."



Modi, in a letter dated September 9, had personally invited the actor to support the ambitious campaign saying his presence would help in connecting millions to the initiative.

"As a much adored film personality, you have the power to impact people's life positively...I personally invite you to lend your support to the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' movement and dedicate some time for the cause of a Swachh Bharat," the Prime Minister had said.

He also said the Malayalam actor could share his experience regarding the movement with him on the Narendra Modi mobile application.

President Ram Nath Kovind had launched the fortnight-long 'Swachhata Hi Seva' (Cleanliness is Service) sanitation campaign in Uttar Pradesh on September 15.

The nationwide campaign is aimed at highlighting the Modi government's flagship cleanliness initiative Swachh Bharat Mission.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Ryan International School here will remained closed till September 25 as the family of 7- year-old Pradhuman Thakur, who was brutally killed on its campus, raised apprehensions about vital evidence being destroyed.

The school was opened to thin attendance today but following the victim's father's objections, the district administration decided to close it till Monday next week.

Meanwhile, the Gurgaon police team probing the Pradhuman Thakur case was at the backfoot in a local court over weak investigation even as the three arrested accused in the case were sent to judicial custody till September 29.

The victim's father Barun Thakur strongly held that the school should not be opened till the CBI takes over the case.

"The district administration has reopened the school and suppose if any kind of evidence is still intact inside, that could be destroyed by the perpetrator. I strongly object to the decision of the district administration and have written to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) seeking its intervention," Thakur said.

He had earlier written an e-mail to Deputy Commissioner (DC) Vinay Pratap Singh asking him to rethink the decision.

Following the family's assertion, the DC decided to close the school till September 25.

The school opened today but only 250 students came against a strength of 1200. Fear continued to grip the parents despite the district authorities having taken over the administrative charge for next three months.

"We reopened the school after 10 days but as the family of Pradhuman had strong objections, we have decided to close the school to address their concerns and also take other safety measures," DC Singh said.

Earlier, Thakur raised questions about the intent of the district administration over its decision to reopen the school.

"Pradhuman murder case has now been transferred to the CBI but it has not taken the charge from the Gurgaon police SIT. Therefore, there are strong chances that evidence destruction could take place as the same teaching and non teaching staff will run the school," Thakur told PTI.

Thakur said that he had decided that Pradhuman's sister would not go to Ryan international school now.

In the court today, the Gurgaon police was at the receiving end over weak investigation. The court sent all three accused Ashok Kumar, Francis Thomas and Jeyus Thomas in judicial custody till September 29.

A class 2 student, Pradhuman Thakur, was found dead in a school toilet, his throat slit. Schoolbus conductor Ashok Kumar was arrested the same day for allegedly killing the child.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 27-year-old Bangladeshi-origin suspected al-Qaeda operative, who had come to India to allegedly train and radicalise Rohingyas for fighting the Myanmarese Army, has been arrested from east Delhi, the police said today.

Initially, the British national tried to mislead police by claiming that his real name was Shumon Haq. He even showed them a fake voter ID card issued from Kishanganj in Bihar but subsequently, he was identified as Samiun Rahman alias Raju Bhai, they said.

The Delhi Police's Special Cell had been working to gain information about Rahman since July. The sleuths had learnt that a man named 'Raju Bhai' of the al-Qaeda terror group is trying to set up base in Delhi to carry out terrorist activities here.

The team of Special Cell deployed sources in the NCR and other states to get information on him.

It was further learnt that 'Raju Bhai' is in Delhi and is attempting to recruit people for the purpose of jihad, said Pramod Singh Kushwah, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell).

Yesterday, the police learnt that 'Raju Bhai' would come to Vikas Marg, Shakarpur near ITO, to meet one of the probable jihadist recruits, he said.

He was nabbed and later the police learnt his real name. A pistol of 9 mm calibre, laptop, mobile phones, USD 2,000, 13,000 in Bangladeshi currency and Indian rupees were recovered from him, Kushwah said.

It was also found that he was a trained militant and had visited Morocco, Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Turkey, Syria, Bangladesh apart from India for terrorist activities.

He had fought in Syria as a member of Jabhat Al Nusra, an affiliate of al-Qaeda in Syria, against the Syrian government forces, the official said.

In 2013, he was influenced by the ideology of al-Qaeda and joined it. He obtained a three-week training in their camp in Syria and fought there till 2014.

While he was in Syria, their group came to know about the "atrocities" on Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar.

With his Bangladeshi background, he was selected to raise a fighter group there. In 2014, he arrived in Bangladesh to radicalise youth to join al-Qaeda with the help of a person named Yasina, a resident of Bangladesh and an old al-Qaeda cadre, the police official said.

He visited Dhaka and other places and radicalised dozens of young people in Bangladesh for their entry into Myanmar from Chittagong.

However, he was arrested in Bangladesh for terrorist activities in 2014 and after imprisonment of about three years, he was released on bail in April this year, the official said.

He was in contact with his outfit members via Facebook, WhatsApp and telegram and after being released on bail, he contacted Muhammad al-Jawlani, head of al-Nusrah Front, who directed him to go to India.

In July, he entered India with the objective of setting up base in Mizoram and Manipur to fight for Rohingya Muslims, raise funds and incite youths, Kushwah said.

During this period, he stayed at various madrasas in Kishanganj (Bihar), Hazari Bagh (Jharkhand), NCR and other places.

It is believed that he was in touch with a number of youths to incite them to join al-Qaeda, Kushwah said. He visited Delhi frequently for this cause.

Rahman was also involved in cultivating people through Facebook and Telegram app. He was in contact with his outfit members of Syria, including Jawlani and other countries through various chat applications and protected sites.

The government had told Parliament on August 9 that according to available data, more than 14,000 Rohingyas, registered with the UNHCR, were staying in India.

However, some inputs indicate that around 40,000 undocumented Rohingyas were staying in India, mostly in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan regions.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BJP president Amit Shah today appeared before a special SIT court here as a defence witness for former BJP Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case.

Shah's deposition started before Judge P B Desai who had last Tuesday summoned him in response to an application filed by Kodnani.

The court had allowed Kodnani's plea to summon Shah and some others as witnesses in her defence in April this year.

On the day of the Naroda Gam riot near Ahmedabad, she said, she had visited the Sola Civil Hospital after attending the Legislative Assembly and was not present at the spot where the violence took place.

Shah, then an MLA, was also present at Sola Civil Hospital where bodies of the karsevaks killed in the Sabarmati Train burning incident were brought from Godhra. Shah's testimony will help prove her 'alibi', that she was present elsewhere when the crime took place, she said.

Kodnani, who was an MLA in 2002, was made a junior minister in Chief Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2007.

Three weeks ago, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months. A bench headed by then Chief Justice J S Khehar asked the lower court to complete recording of evidence of defence witnesses in two months.

Naroda Gam is one of the nine major 2002 communal riot cases which were investigated by the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team.

Eleven Muslims were killed in Naroda Gam area on February 28, 2002, a day after the Godhra train incident.

A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

Kodnani has been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the Naroda Patiya riot case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Lt Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Prof Jagdish Mukhi inaugurated the 'Swachhta Hi Seva' campaign in Islands.

The Lt Governor launched the fortnight long campaign 'Swachhta Hi Seva', from the Mohanpura Bus Terminus in the presence of chief secretary, Anindo Majumdar, the director general of police, Nuzat Hassan and other senior officials yesterday, an official release said.

Mukhi also administered the 'Swachhta' pledge to the senior officers and the general public present on the occasion.

He also flagged off 'Swachhta Rath' which will transmit the message of 'Swachhta' throughout the Islands. On the occasion, 3 ATR buses with stickers displaying messages on 'Swachhta' campaign were also flagged off.

A street play by the local unit of Mukta Dhara was also presented through which the message of cleanliness and 'Clean Island - Green Island' was conveyed emphatically.

The Rural Development department plans to organise the same street play in all the colleges, schools and Gram Panchayats during the fortnight, till October 2, 2017.

The fortnight starting from September 15 is being celebrated as 'Swachhta Hi Seva Phakhwada'.

During this fortnight, swachhta campaigns through 'shramdan' from the general public and government officers should be organised in all the gram panchayats of these Islands.

The Phakhwada will culminate on the birthday of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2017, the release added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) ferried stranded tourists from Havelock Island to Port Blair, braving rough sea and heavy rains, a statement said today.

A message was received from the civil administration yesterday that several tourists were stranded in Havelock Island after the cancellation of 'Makruzz', a boat meant for ferrying civilians, due to a defect in the hull.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been experiencing heavy rains and very rough seas since September 13.

It was also intimated that a number of passengers, who had their flights scheduled for this morning, were stranded and required to be brought to Port Blair, the capital of the archipelago.

As the civil ferries to Havelock Island do not ply at night, the ANC had been approached for ferrying the stranded tourists.

"Two naval ships -- INS Bangaram and INS Battimalv (fast attack craft class) -- were sailed for the mission despite torrential rains and very rough weather," the statement said.

Twenty-four tourists were ferried to Port Blair.

Additionally, 54 officers from Defence Services Staff College, who are on a visit to the islands and got stranded due to the cancellation of 'Makruzz', also embarked on the two ships.

The Port Blair-based Andaman and Nicobar Command is a joint command of the Indian Armed Forces.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Delhi Police said today it has arrested a man who scammed several people, especially senior citizens, by offering them his help in withdrawing money from ATMs.

Rajesh, 26 and a resident of Haryana's Hisar district, was arrested near the parking area of Sector 14 Dwarka Metro Station. Fourteen ATM cards have been seized from him.

A driver by profession, he frequently visited Delhi.

"He used to recce the ATMs where innocent people or senior citizens used to withdraw money and would offer them his help in withdrawing money during which, he fraudulently swapped their ATM cards after knowing smartly the card's PIN," DCP (Crime) Bhisham Singh said in a statement.

Rajesh would then withdraw money from the account of the victim through online transactions or cash from different ATMs through the swapped ATM card.

With his arrest, five cases of fraud have been solved, the police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The dewan of Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Syed Zainul Abedin Ali Khan said that he has written to the Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister condemning the attacks on Rohingya muslims in Myanmar and termed it an "act of cowardice".

In the letter to Narendra Modi and Sushma Swaraj, Abedin said, he has asked the government to raise the Rohingya issue at the UN.

India is a major power centre in Asia and it is our responsibility to lodge protests if a neighbouring country indulges in inhuman acts, he said in a statement yesterday.

The dewan of the dargah has also requested the Union government not to send the Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar in such trying times and take responsibility of their safety and security.

The Centre today told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continuous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The violent attacks allegedly by Myanmarese armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, were settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bahrain today accused Qatar of seizing 15 boats from the kingdom with 20 fishermen on board, in the latest spat between the neighbours caught up in a diplomatic dispute.

In a statement on its website, Bahrain's interior ministry said Qatar had seized three Bahraini boats with 16 aboard in the past two days.

Coast Guard commander Ala Siyadi said in the statement that this took to 15 the overall number of boats seized and 20 the number of fishermen.

The Bahraini authorities did not specify when the other four people were detained, but the ministry said some boats had been seized in 2009.

Bahrain joined a Saudi-led bloc of nations in breaking diplomatic ties with Qatar on June 5, accusing it of links to extremists and getting close to Iran.

The gas-rich emirate flatly rejects the allegations and the diplomatic row, the worst seen in the Gulf for decades, shows no signs of abating.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The free distribution of over one crore sarees for women below the poverty line for the upcoming traditional 'Bathukamma' festival began today across Telangana.

The Telangana government had said about 1.04 crore women will be given saris free of cost. The scheme costs Rs 222 crore.

However, the saree distribution found itself in a row with the sarees allegedly being burnt over poor quality.

Telangana IT Minister K T Rama Rao told reporters here that the government targeted to distribute about 1.04 crore sarees at over 8,000 centres in the state.

About 25 lakh sarees were distributed on the first day today, he said.

Hitting out at opposition parties, he alleged that Congress leaders were behind the incident of burning the distributed sarees at places like Chalgal in Jagitial district.

It is an utterly low level politics to burn the sarees, he said.

"On the occasion of 'Bathukamma' festival, all the poor women above the age of 18 will get sarees as a gift irrespective of caste, community or religion," Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao had earlier said.

District Collectors of 31 districts in the state are overseeing the sarees distribution programme, Commissioner Textiles Shailaja Rama Iyer, told reporters here today.

She said power-loom weavers of Sircilla in the state have woven over 50 lakh sarees measuring up to 3.75 crore metres while remaining sarees have been procured from Surat after following open competitive tender process.

"There are over 500 designs of sarees which are being distributed. Polyester sarees distribution has been taken up

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A motorbike bomb killed a child and wounded seven people in the Kurdish-majority Syrian town of Qamishli today in an attack the security forces blamed on a pro-regime militia.

The blast in the city near the Turkish border came four days ahead of the first local elections in Kurdish-controlled parts of Syria, opposed by Damascus and Ankara.

"Pro-regime militias... Booby-trapped a motorbike and placed it on a popular street in Qamishli, and then detonated it remotely," said Ali al-Hassan, a spokesman for the Asayesh security force.

The AFP correspondent saw people fleeing the site of the blast, which did not cause significant material damage.

Syrian state television reported "four wounded in a motorbike bombing" in a busy Qamishli street.

The election set for Friday, more than a year after the Kurdish proclamation of a "federal region", was bitterly opposed by the Syrian regime and especially neighbouring Turkey.

The Kurds deny any attempt to partition Syria, a country already torn apart by more than six years of war.

Regime forces withdrew from Kurdish-majority northern regions of Syria in 2012, months after the start of a rebellion against President Bashar Al-Assad.

Since then, the Kurds have strived to carve out an autonomous region.

They have become a key actor in the conflict and are spearheading the battle against the Islamic State group in the northern city of Raqa.

Turkey sees the main Kurdish party in Syria as "terrorist" and fears the creation of an autonomous Kurdish region in Syria could stir the secessionist ambitions of its own sizeable Kurdish population.

It is also opposed to a referendum on independence for Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region set for September 25.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In setting out his own vision for Brexit, Boris Johnson has stirred up colleagues and increased the pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May ahead of her big speech on Europe later this week.

The British foreign secretary was accused of "backseat driving" by a fellow minister and rebuked by the statistics watchdog for his article outlining how "glorious" life will be outside the European Union.

But his 4,000-word essay also drew praise from eurosceptic members of the ruling Conservative party for his demand for a clean break with the EU, in particular on the fraught issue of financial payments.

Many people saw it as an attempt to force May's hand ahead of Friday's speech in the Italian city of Florence, when she will give an update on her plans and the progress of negotiations with the EU.

"You could call it backseat driving," Home Secretary Amber Rudd, who campaigned to stay in the EU, told BBC television on Sunday.

But May herself insisted that she was in control, telling reporters on a trip to Canada: "The UK government is driven from the front and we all have the same destination in our sights."



May's grip on power remains fragile after losing her parliamentary majority in the June election, and with it her ability to force through Brexit.

Johnson was a leading voice for Brexit in last year's referendum and has long been tipped for the top job.

But May has dismissed talk of a challenge from her foreign minister. "Boris is Boris," she said earlier on Monday, according to British media.

Publicly, he has pledged his support for May, who he will join at the United Nations in New York this week.

"What I'm trying to do is sketch out what I think is the incredibly exciting landscape of the destination ahead," Johnson told the BBC after arriving in New York.

"People want to know where we're going," he added, describing his lengthy Brexit article as "an opening drum roll" to May's speech in Florence.

Johnson has been largely silent on domestic issues for several months, but a number of newspaper articles last week suggested he was disgruntled with the progress of Brexit.

With questionable timing -- on Friday night, hours after a bomb attack in London -- he laid out the opportunities of Brexit with his usual flair in an article for the Daily Telegraph.

"I am here to tell you that this country will succeed in our new national enterprise, and will succeed mightily," he wrote.

Johnson argued against paying for continued access to Europe's single market -- a possibility other ministers have left open.

He also revived a hotly contested referendum campaign claim that Britain would regain 350 million pounds a week to spend on public services once it stops paying into the EU budget.

The head of the independent UK Statistics Authority, David Norgrove, rebuked Johnson for a "clear misuse of official statistics", saying the figure confused gross and net contributions.

But Eurosceptic Conservative lawmakers welcomed Johnson's intervention, with one, Jacob Rees-Mogg, saying he was "loyally putting forward government policy... With panache".

Another, Nadine Dorries, wrote on Twitter: "The PM is not furious. It was a drum roll for her speech next week. It punctured the gloom.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
One of Britain's senior-most Brexit officials was today shunted to the Cabinet Office after just over a year in the job, in what marks the latest row to hit the UK government's divorce from the European Union.

Oliver Robbins has been moved to 10 Downing Street from the Department for Exiting the European Union (DexEU) to take on a new "coordinating" role, which will see him work more closely with Prime Minister Theresa May.

"In order to strengthen cross government coordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union, the Prime Minister has appointed Oliver Robbins as her EU Adviser in the Cabinet Office, in addition to his role as EU Sherpa," a DexEU statement said.

"He will continue to lead the official-side UK team in the negotiations, working closely with the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, and coordinate relations with the European Commission and Member States," it noted.

However, the main reason behind the shift is being attributed to tensions between him and Brexit secretary David Davis.

The change at the top of the Brexit pecking order within government is also being seen as a way for May to take on greater control of the negotiations after days of rows over the issue within her own Cabinet.

The latest set of wrangles were triggered over the weekend with a 4,000-word article by UK foreign secretary Boris Johnson reviving his claims that the country's National Health Service (NHS) would be 350 million pounds a week richer as a result of Brexit.

While this figure has come under dispute since he first used it during the Vote Leave campaign in the lead up to the EU referendum last year, his decision to re-open the debate is being widely seen as a blatant leadership challenge to Theresa May by trying to take centre-stage within the Brexit debate.

"Once we have settled our accounts, we will take back control of roughly 350 million pounds per week. It would be a fine thing, as many of us have pointed out, if a lot of that money went on the NHS," he wrote in The Daily Telegraph.

The article, in which Johnson also said he opposed paying the EU to secure temporary access to the single market during a transitional phase after the UK's departure, divided Conservative party MPs with many claiming it undermined May's leadership ahead of a crucial EU speech scheduled for later this week in Florence, Italy.

Many are reportedly calling on May to sack her foreign secretary over this intervention.

While UK home secretary Amber Rudd accused her Cabinet colleague of being a Brexit "back-seat driver",defence minister Tobias Ellwood warned his party of growing discord with his tweet: "We are not witnessing our finest hour-at a testing time when poise, purpose and unity are called for.

"Debate should be forward looking on how to make most of life outside EU - not refighting referendum."



Meanwhile, a parallel row broke out between Johnson and the chair of the UK's Statistics Authority, David Norgrove, who wrote a letter to contest the minister's claims:"I am surprised and disappointed that you have chosen to repeat the figure of 350 million pounds per week, in connection with the amount that might be available for extra public spending when we leave the European Union."



The authority warned that the article "confused" the size of the UK's annual gross and net contributions to the EU's budget andalso assumes that payments currently made to the UK by the EU, including for example for the support of agriculture and scientific research, will not be paid by the UK government when it leaves.

"It is a clear misuse of official statistics," he said.

Johnson's reply was equally harsh: "I must say that I was surprised and disappointed by your letter of today, since it was based on what appeared to be a wilful distortion of the text of my article.

"You say that I claim that there would be 350 million pound that 'might be available for extra public spending' when we leave the EU. This is a complete misrepresentation of what I said and I would like you to withdraw it."



The Opposition parties are having a field day with the ruling Conservatives' internal chaos, with Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable saying Johnson's credibility had been "shot to pieces".

Keir Starmer, Labour's shadow Brexit secretary, said it all smacked of "chaos".

"Moving key individuals at this critical time adds a whole new dimension to the government's chaotic approach to Brexit. Deep divisions in the Cabinet and a complete lack of leadership are putting the national interest at risk," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Sterling K Brown today created history by becoming the first African American to win the best actor drama Emmy awards in the past 19 years, for his performance as Randall on NBC's "This Is Us".

The last to win the award was Andre Braugher in 1998 for his role in "Homicide: Life on the Street".

"I just want to say Mr Braugher, whether at Stanford University or on this Emmy stage, it is my supreme honour to follow in your steps," Brown said, before pivoting to thanking his TV family.

"Milo, Mandy, Justin, Chrissy - you are the best white TV family that a brother has ever had. Better than Mr. Drummond, better then them white folks at Webster," he added.

Brown was elated with his win and had a long list of people to thank, but sadly, the TV Academy forcefully played him off mid-speech and appeared to turn off his microphone as well.

"You can play. You can play," he said to the Emmys' house band. "Nobody got that loud music."



After his mic was turned off, the 41 year-old actor tried to finish his speech to the cheers of the Microsoft Theater audience, but the attempt proved unsuccessful, reported Variety.

A reporter backstage asked the actor if he would like to finish his acceptance speech and he happily obliged.

"I wanted to thank our writers. A show doesn't get 7 acting nominations without some epic, beautiful, thoughtful writing. You guys are our life's blood, so I want to thank you so much. To our producers and directors...I thank you for your guidance and friendship.

"I wanted to thank Dan Fogelman - he is the Hebrew hammer with which our house was built. He makes me laugh and cry in equal parts and keeps me coming back for more, and in his own little small special way...I wanted to thank my manager. And to my wife - I didn't get to thank my wife - you make my life worth living and you gave me two of the most beautiful things that God has ever put on this planet. Your daddy loves you with the strength of 1000 suns," he said.

Brown becomes the fourth black actor to ever win in that category; Bill Cosby took the award home in 1966 through 1968 for "I Spy"; James Earl Jones won in 1991 after playing the title character in "Gabriel's Fire"; Braugher, and now Brown.

This was the second Emmys win for the 41-year-old actor, who took home a supporting-actor trophy last year for his breakout role in Ryan Murphy's "The People v O J Simpson", which helped turn him into a household name.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A charter bus owned by a company with a record of safety problems barrelled through an intersection, slammed into a city bus and then plowed across a sidewalk into a building today, killing three people.

The wreck, which was captured by a security camera, ripped away the facade of a fried chicken restaurant and started a small fire. The video appeared to show the charter bus racing through the intersection without applying its brakes.

"The tour bus was flying," Mike Ramos, a witnesses to the crash, told the Daily . "There was people pinned under the front of the city bus. A lady was crying and screaming, 'Get me out! Get me out!'" he said.

One of the people killed was a pedestrian on the sidewalk, identified by police as Henry Wdowiak, 68, of Queens. The other dead were the charter bus driver, Raymond Mong, 49, and a passenger on the Metropolitan Transportation bus, Gregory Liljefors, 55.

Sixteen other people were hurt, some of them seriously, in the crash, which happened at 6:15 am (local time) in the Flushing neighbourhood of Queens, city officials said at a briefing. The charter bus was empty of passengers at the time of the crash.

Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was shocked by the "sheer destruction."



A building that houses a number of retail stores, including the restaurant, received substantial impact from the crash, and experts were working to make sure it was secure, the mayor said.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Joe Lhota said that although the investigation has just begun, the evidence indicates there was "an enormous amount of speed." "We want to make sure we understand what happened and prevent this from ever happening again," he said.

Signage on the charter bus showed it was from the Dahlia Group Inc., which has its depot a few blocks from where the wreck happened.

A person answering the phone there declined to comment; there was no immediate response to an email seeking comment. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration records show that a Dahlia bus was also involved in a fatal crash in Connecticut in February 2016.

One of the company's buses was driving through a snowstorm to reach the Mohegan Sun casino when it overturned on Interstate 95 in Madison, east of New Haven. One person died, and 36 people were injured.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chelsea Manning has said she is not an "American traitor" as her critics have claimed, and that she did what she thought was right.

Manning made the remarks at a conference in Nantucket that was one of her first public appearances since being released for a military prison in May. The Associated Press was the only media outlet in attendance.

"I believe I did the best I could in my circumstances to make an ethical decision," she told the crowd when asked by the moderator if she was a traitor.

The 29-year-old transgender woman was known as Bradley Manning when she was convicted in 2013 of leaking a trove of classified documents. She was released after serving seven years of a 35-year sentence, which was commuted by President Barack Obama in his final days in office.

Manning spoke at the annual conference for The Nantucket Project in Massachusetts, a venture founded to bring together creative thinkers to uncover ideas. Organizers say about 600 people attended.

Tom Scott, who co-founded The Nantucket Project with Kate Brosnan, said they invited Manning for "clarity of understanding."



"My brother and father are Marines. They would respectfully challenge some of her decisions," he said.

"Barack Obama commuted her sentence. My instinct is that he's a good and trustful man. How do those two things mix? Seeing her in person offers, perhaps, the best way to decipher that."



Several audience members said they were intrigued to hear from Manning. Sara O'Reilly, a Nantucket resident who has attended several past conferences, said the speakers are typically a "little edgy." She said she doesn't judge Manning and other people have done "far worse" things. Bonnie Roseman, of West Palm Beach, Florida, said after the talk that Manning is courageous.

Scott said some people were upset that Manning was invited, but he didn't consider retracting the invitation. Harvard University reversed its decision to name Manning a visiting fellow Friday, a day after CIA Director Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned appearance over the title for Manning. Pompeo called Manning an "American traitor."



Manning said Harvard's decision signaled to her that it's a "police state" and it's not possible to engage in actual political discourse in academic institutions.

"I'm not ashamed of being disinvited," she said. "I view that just as much of an honored distinction as the fellowship itself."



Eugene Jarecki, an award-winning documentary director, moderated the discussion. He asked Manning if it "reflects something about the state of our time" that she's still the subject of pressure by the CIA on Harvard and labeled a traitor.

Manning said she took a risk to contribute to political and public discourse and "change the tone of the conversation," but it hasn't changed, and if anything, "things have gotten worse.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
China and Nepal have agreed to start technical works to build a cross-border railway link via Tibet to boost connectivity, according to Nepalese Foreign Ministry.

This was decided during the recent visit of Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara to Beijing.

"Both sides have agreed to move forward technical works relating to construction of Nepal-China cross-border railway line," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement last week.

During the high-level talks in Beijing, Mahara had requested China to forward the work relating to preparation of a Detailed Project Report for the construction of inter- country railway line giving it high priority, it said.

However, China's state-run People's Daily has claimed that during Mahara's visit to China early this month a deal has been struck to establish the rail link.

It said the rail link includes two lines: one connecting three of Nepal's most important cities and two between China and Nepal.

The daily, however, did not identify the Nepalese cities.

The Sino-Nepali railway, which passes through the Chinese border town of Zhangmu and connects with routes in Nepal, will be the first railway by which China enters South Asia, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

"Although the railway connection between China and Nepal is intended to boost regional development and not for military purposes, the move will still probably irritate India," he was quoted as saying by the daily - the ruling communist party's official mouthpiece.

China last year agreed to consider building a railway into Nepal and to start a feasibility study for a free trade agreement with landlocked Nepal, which has been trying to lessen its dependence on its other big neighbour India.

Nepal also signed up to President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road initiative which is opposed by India as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
China has opened a strategic highway in Tibet to the Nepal border which could be used for civilian and defence purposes, a move that Chinese experts say will enable Beijing to make forays into South Asia, according to a media report on Monday.

The 40.4-kilometre highway in Tibet between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday with a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border.

The highway will shorten the journey from an hour to 30 minutes between the dual-use civil and military airport and Tibet's second-largest city.

State-run 'Global Times' quoted experts as saying that the highway "will enable China to forge a route into South Asia in both economic and defence terms" and being a forerunner to a railway line connecting Nepal.

Geographically, any extension of the road and railway connectivity to South Asia is through India, Bhutan and to Bangladesh.

Chinese officials have said in the past that the projects are feasible and could become a trade corridor for India and China if New Delhi comes on board.

The new road runs parallel with the Xigaze-Lhasa railway and links the city's ring roads with the 5,476-kilometre G318 highway from Shanghai to Zhangmu on the Nepal border, the report said.

As part of G318, the highway connects the border town of Zhangmu with Lhasa, the provincial capital of Tibet. It can link with the future cross-border Sino-Nepali railway, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for Studies.

The G318 with Xigaze in the middle connects to Nepal on one end and other end links to Nyingchi, the Tibetan town close to Arunachal Pradesh border. The highway runs very close to the border.

China has been stepping efforts to improve road connectivity between Tibet and Nepal while speeding up plans to build a railway line connecting to Nepal's border after K P Sharma Oli, pro-China former Nepalese Prime Minister, signed a Transit Trade Treaty with Beijing last year during his tenure.

Oli signed the treaty at the height of the Madhesi agitation and their blockade of Indian goods to provide a major opening for China to reduce the dependence of the landlocked country on India, even as the transportation of essentials through the Himalayan terrain of Tibet would entail heavy costs for Nepal.

However, since the fall of Oli government, China's plans to speed up its efforts to make forays into Nepal through infrastructure expansion slowed down even though Kathmandu signed up for Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative in May this year.

The 25-meter-wide highway between Xigaze peace airport and Xigaze has four double lanes and is classified a first- tier highway, the Tibet Financial Daily reported.

"Highways in China are of a high standard including the one in Tibet. It can be used by armoured vehicles and as a runway for planes to take off when it has to serve a military purpose," Zhao said.

"The road is Tibet's first real highway. It is our gift toward the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China," Wei Qianggao, deputy head of the Tibet transportation department was quoted as saying by the Global Times.

As an important infrastructure programme in the 13th Five-Year Plan and a core section of Tibet highway network, the road will benefit the export-oriented economy of Xigaze and the complex traffic around Lhasa, Wei said.

Over five years, the standard of highways in Tibet and the traffic network have been gradually improved, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang Jinhe, another official from the Tibet transportation department, the report said.

The total highway mileage in Tibet reached more than 80,000 kilometres in 2016, increasing nearly 19,000 kilometres since 2011, Wang said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Congress today accused the BJP government in Haryana of inaction in the wake of multiple paper leak scams which it said were jeopardising the future of youngsters in the state.

Senior Congress leader and the media in-charge of the party Randeep Singh Surjewala alleged that the M L Khattar-led government was misleading the youngsters in the state by making hollow job promises.

He claimed that during the past three years Haryana witnessed 13 major paper leaks "and yet not a single conviction" took place.

"The Khattar government promised employment to every youth of Haryana and a monthly unemployment allowance of Rs 6,000 to Rs 9,000 per month to those who had passed Class 12th and BA or MA examinations, but were without jobs.

"After three years, Haryana's youth find themselves at crossroads with no hope of livelihood or employment and with the future looking bleak," Surjewala, who is party MLA from Kaithal, told reporters here this evening.

He said that 7,886 recruitments made by the Khattar government was a "glaring example" of the "grave injustice" done to Haryana's youth.

"As against this, nearly 20,000 youth have either been sacked or given a notice for termination of services in various departments," he alleged.

On the paper leak issue, Surjewala said, "future of youth has been put under a dark cloud of uncertainty on account of the multiple paper leak scams including in HPSC, HSSC, Police recruitments...As many as 13 paper leak scams have come to fore during three years".

Surjewala said that the malady lies in the "incompetence" and also "the abject failure" of the Khattar government to check corruption and to provide a transparent recruitment process.

He claimed that the kingpins of various paper leak scams were still roaming scot-free and the Khattar government must contemplate ordering a judicial probe or court-monitored CBI probe into the matter.

Attacking the Centre on the fuel prices issue, Surjewala said, "On 11 occasions the excise was increased by the Centre on petrol and diesel during past three years -- 133.47 per cent excise was increased on petrol and 400 per cent excise increased on diesel".

"When petrol prices in Pakistan are Rs 45 per litre, the per litre price in Sri Lanka, which imports a chunk of its oil import from India, is Rs 37 per litre, then why is it Rs 70 plus per litre in India," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Four Dalit women have alleged that some upper caste men thrashed them for dumping garbage near a gurdwara in Fatehgarh village here.

The women claimed that the incident took place on Saturday and one of them was injured in the leg and has been admitted to a local civil hospital.

Police said they were investigating the matter and the village panchayat has sought time for reaching a compromise between both the parties.

"We have received complaints from the both the parties against each other and we are probing the matter," Station House Officer Jasvir Singh said, adding the upper caste members have accused Dalit families of grabbing the shamlat land.

State president of Krantikari Pendu Mazdoor Union Sanjeev Mintu today claimed, "Dalit families have been dumping garbage at a place near the gurdwara for the last 20 years. But now, members of upper caste have asked the Dalit families not to throw waste there because they wanted to grab the land."



He alleged that five men attacked the women when they came to dump garbage.

Mintu alleged that on September 13 also, Dalit women were abused by the members of upper caste for throwing waste near the gurdwara and despite lodging complaint, no action has been taken by the police then.

The victims were members of Krantikari Pendu Mazdoor Union, he claimed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An RSS activist has filed a complaint in a magistrate court here against Congress vice president and CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for allegedly linking the organisation to the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh.

"I have filed a case of criminal defamation and the hearing is likely to take place on October 22," lawyer Dhrituman Joshi, who filed the complaint, said.

In the complaint filed on Friday, Joshi cited some purported remarks by Gandhi and Yechury and alleged that they had blamed the RSS for the murder.

"Statements made by the accused and the respective political parties are in utmost sense defamatory and belittle the RSS in the eyes of common public. There was a definite move by the accused to tarnish the image of the RSS, without citing any proof," Joshi alleged in his complaint.

He said that being an RSS worker, he was humiliated and defamed before the common people.

The complaint claimed that the comments, which are "defamatory and detrimental to the image of the RSS", have been made without any proof or official statement by the investigating authorities.

Joshi has also made the Congress, its president Sonia Gandhi and the CPI(M) as party to his complaint.

Journalist Lankesh was killed on September 6 by unidentified assailants at her residence in Karnataka.

is already facing a defamation case in a court at Bhiwandi in Thane district over his alleged comment against the RSS regarding Mahatma Gandhi's assassination.
A Special Investigation Team of the Haryana police today questioned Dera Sacha Sauda chairperson Vipassana Insan in connection with several issues including the violence that broke out in Panchkula and Sirsa following the sect head's conviction in a rape case.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Sirsa Police questioned her for more than three hours, a senior police official said. The Dera chairperson was also asked if she was in contact with Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's adopted daughter Honeypreet, against whom a lookout notice has been issued.

Vipassana Insan arrived at the police post at around 2.30 pm, the official said.

The Dera chairperson was questioned at length and asked about various incidents pertaining to the violence following the sect head's conviction, the police official said.

She was asked as to how such a large gathering of Dera followers collected at Panchkula before the day of the verdict.

The police also questioned her about the people behind the violence in Sirsa following the conviction. The SIT was headed by Dabwali DSP Kuldeep Beniwal.

Earlier today, Haryana DGP B S Sandhu said that a notice summoning the Dera chairperson had been sent.

The DGP told reporters in Panchkula that the police was making efforts to nab Honeypreet, and key Dera functionaries, Aditya Insan and Pawan Insan.

"We have sent police teams to various places to track them," he said.

Efforts to trace Honeypreet were initiated after the questioning of Surinder Dhiman Insan, a sect functionary who was arrested on charges of instigating violence, in connection with an alleged conspiracy to help the Dera chief escape after he was convicted of raping two disciples.

Violence erupted in Panchkula and Sirsa in Haryana and parts of Punjab and Delhi on August 25 following Ram Rahim Singh's conviction. The mayhem left 35 dead in Panchkula and six in Sirsa.

Sandhu rubbished reports suggesting that Honeypreet had fled to Nepal.

"We are hopeful of arresting Honeypreet, Aditya and Pawan Insan soon," he said.

Asked to comment on reports that Honeypreet had stayed at the Dera at Sirsa for two days after August 25, DGP said, "we are getting this fact verified."



To a query, he said the police have no input that there was a threat to Honeypreet's life.

Asked whether a Punjab politician's name had cropped up in connection with the ongoing investigations in the Dera issue, DGP said, "if his role will come up in the ongoing investigations he will also be asked to join the probe."



The DGP also said that the politician had come to meet him in his office, but he was not present at that time.

The police was not and will not act under any kind of pressure in the case, the DGP assured.

"Independent investigation is going on, let me assure you, there is no pressure. We will act against any person whose name is coming or will come up in this investigation," he said.

Aasked if it was justified to allow Honeypreet Insan to go along with Ram Rahim in the helicopter to Sunaria jail after he was convicted, DGP said, "it was part of a strategy."



An extraordinary case demands extraordinary measures, he said.

"Have you seen in India's history a convict being sent to jail by a helicopter. We were dealing with extra ordinary case, therefore, it was part of strategy," he said.

Asked if there was any lapse on part of police initially allowing time to some of the accused to evade arrest, the DGP said that Haryana police's priority was to establish peace and normalcy.

"Investigation was second part of the whole thing, but we are nabbing the accused. We are hopeful that every accused will be arrested," he said.

Referring to a list of 43 'wanted' persons released by Haryana police in connection with incidents of violence, the DGP said that if the accused continue to evade arrest they will be declared as proclaimed offenders.

Sandhu said that so far 1092 arrests have been carried out in connection with incidents of violence after Dera chief's conviction.

Asked about the presence of paramilitary forces in the state as heavy deployment was made at several sensitive places including Panchkula, Sirsa and Rohtak for the past one month, DGP said, "we have 33 Companies of paramilitary forces with us till September 20. We will soon review and decide how many we want to keep".

To another question, he said the special CBI judge who awarded 20 years jail term to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has been given 'Z' cover security.

"His security has been further strengthened. Moreover, we also keep on reviewing the security which is provided from time to time," he said.

He also said that a bullet proof vehicle has been given to the judge.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Dubai-owned giant port operator DP World announced today it has agreed to acquire two maritime services companies for a total of USD 405 million.

The company which operates 77 marine and inland terminals around the world said it will buy Drydocks World, which operates the largest ship repair yard in the Middle East, for USD 225 million.

DP World also announced in a statement the purchase for USD 180 million of Maritime World, the 100-percent owner of Dubai Maritime City, a service facility.

"These transactions will enhance our position as a leading maritime services provider, and we look forward to leveraging on our proven track record to accelerate growth and deliver stakeholder value," DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem said.

With container handling as its core business, the company shipped around 85 million TEU, 20-foot equivalent containers, in 2016.

DP World also said it has decided not to renew its operating contract for PT Terminal Petikemas Surabaya in Indonesia when it expires in 2019.

The port on the Indonesian island of Java has a handling capacity of 2.1 million TEU.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The 69th Primetime Emmy awards witnessed some politically charged celebrity moments as former White House press secretary Sean Spicer joined host Stephen Colbert to take a potshot at President Donald Trump.

Spicer made a surprising appearance during Colbert's opening monologue, mocking Trump's crowd-size claims.

"This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person and around the world," Spicer said, referencing the now infamous press conference he gave regarding the crowd at Trump's presidential inauguration in January.

"Wow, that bruised my fragile ego," Colbert said before adding, "Melissa McCarthy, everybody!" as the camera showed the actress, who is knwon for popular impression of Spicer on "Saturday Night Live", laughing in the audience.

Meanwhile, Colbert's hosting gig at the awards show was loaded with jokes about the president, whom he referred to as the "biggest TV personality of the year", adding "every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way... All the late night show obviously... "House of Cards", the new "American Horror Story".

Colbert quipped that the audience was responsible for what Trump is today. The comedian chided them for not giving Trump the Emmy he wanted.

"And we all know the Emmys mean a lot to Donald Trump. Because he was nominated multiple times for 'Celebrity Apprentice' but he never won. Why didn't you give him an Emmy? I tell you this. If he had won an Emmy, I bet he wouldn't have run for president. So in a way this is all your fault.

"I thought you people loved morally compromised antiheroes."



Colbert said this year's Emmy nominees was the most diverse in history, and after the applause died down, mused: "I did not know you could applaud while patting yourself on the back at the same time. Well done. Lovely job.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The West Bengal finance department has recently issued directives to 32 departments asking them to return its unspent fund and sought explanations from them on why funds alloted to them were not fully utilised, official sources said.

According to a senior official at the finance department, the move was initiated to "strengthen" financial discipline.

The practice will continue, the official said.

In a notification issued by the finance department, all the 32 departments have been asked to give reasons for their inability to spend the funds they were provided with, he said.

The notification also mentioned the account where the unspent money should be returned, he said.

The decision was taken in a recent meeting of senior officials of the finance department, the finance advisor and representatives of the 32 departments, the official said.

Another official of the finance department said, the principal secretary of the state finance department, Hari Krishna Dwivedi has informed all the departments that seeking explanation and asking to return unused funds from various departments would continue in the future.

"It has come to our notice that in the last financial year, these 32 departments failed in utilising even 15 to 20 per cent of the fund they were alloted. The state government will use the returned fund in other development projects," the source said.

The departments had failed to spend money from their personal ledger account (PLA), from their bank accounts deposits, he added.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on September 4 asked the departments to return the funds they had failed to utilise so that the government could utilise it for other development purpose.

"During the meeting itself some departments tried to give their logic in failing to utilise the funds alloted to them. Representatives from these departments were also asked few other questions which they had answered in the meeting," the official said.

Representatives of some departments, where some projects were already ongoing, were told to continue with their work and not to return the funds.

"These departments who are already having some ongoing projects have been asked to continue with their work and they do not need to return any money now," the source said.

Possibly with an eye on next year's Panchayat elections in the state, the Mamata Banerjee government was trying to expedite projects and finish them as fast as possible, the source added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) T S Krishnamurthy has pitched for state-funding of elections, and banning the use of funds by political parties for polls, as part of .

He mooted creation of a election fund to which companies and individuals can contribute.

Krishnamurthy said originally he was not in favour of the state-funding of elections.

"But seeing what's happening these days in various places, I believe there should be a election fund to which companies and individuals can contribute for which 100 per cent tax exemption should be given," he told PTI.

Such funds can be used for the state-funding of elections, Krishnamurthy said.

"If there is a deficiency, of course the Central government will have to make good," he said, adding that companies and individuals would prefer to contribute to such a fund, instead of the political parties, since they would get 100 per cent tax exemption.

The move would ensure that there is no nexus between corporates and political parties, Krishnamurthy said.

"Of course, how to use the fund, there can be an all party meeting, they can decide how to use for various elections," he said.

Once a election fund is set up, the use of funds by any political party for elections must be banned, he suggested.

"I agree even then there can be payment by political parties; whenever it's discovered it should be dealt with penalty of 10 years or whatever imprisonment for disqualification (of that candidate) in addition to 10 years imprisonment," Krishnamurthy said.

"We have to be very strict on those people who pay inspite of state-funding of elections. No party should be allowed to spend any money for elections," he said.

According to him, there are lot of loopholes in law as now there is a ceiling on election expenditure only for candidates, and not for political parties.

"Then there is cash expenditure which is incurred by friends, relatives; how do you get into that? There are looholes, that's the reason why I have come to feel that no party should be allowed to receive funds, except by its own members, and no party should spend money on elections," he said.

"An election should be conducted by the funds collected under the national election fund by the election commission. It's difficult to prove cash expenditure, there is no method of checking cash expenditure by political parties," he said.

He called for a separate law for political parties, framing proper regulation and overseeing and monitoring them including their internal elections and financial management.

Criminals should be disqualified if a charge sheet is framed by a court, not by police, in respect of offences punishable with five years and more of imprisonment, he said.

One gets "wrong candidates" in electoral fray because muscle power and money power play an important role in the polls, Krishnamurthy said.

"So, the best thing is if you remove funding of elections by political parties," he said.

"Secondly, you can have a provision of recall of representatives after 50 per cent of the tenure of the House is over -- if the House tenure is five years, the elected person is allowed to peacefully work for two-and-a-half years, after that if a person is charged with heinous offences like murder, rape or corruption, such people...There must be a provision for a recall," Krishnamurthy suggested.

"Actually, recall by itself may not be a resolution but could be a deterrent. There will be some accountability on the part of the elected representatives to behave better," he added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
France warned today that salvaging the Iran nuclear deal was "essential," but left the door open to further talks to ward off any US threat to walk away from the landmark agreement.

Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters ahead of the UN General Assembly that scrapping the 2015 agreement would launch an arms race with "neighboring countries that would feel encouraged to head into the same direction."



US President Donald Trump has threatened to scrap the nuclear agreement, describing it as the "worst deal ever negotiated."



"France will try to persuade President Trump of the importance of this choice, even if it can be completed by work after 2025," he said ahead of a meeting between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron later in the day.

Under the nuclear deal, certain limits on Iran's uranium enrichment are set to expire in 2025 and critics have said this is the weakest part of the deal.

"It's essential to maintain (the agreement) to prevent a spiral of proliferation that would encourage hardliners in Iran to pursue nuclear weapons," Le Drian said.

France and the United States are among the six powers that negotiated the landmark agreement with Iran. Britain, China, Germany and Russia are also part of the deal.

Under the nuclear deal, Iran surrendered much of its enriched uranium, dismantled a reactor and submitted nuclear sites to UN inspection, while Washington and Europe lifted some sanctions.

Iran and North Korea are set to dominate the annual gathering of world leaders that formally opens tomorrow with a series of addresses by Trump and Macron among other leaders.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is scheduled to speak on Wednesday.

Trump is due to decide before October 15 whether Iran has breached the 2015 nuclear agreement, and critics fear he may abandon an accord they think prevents Tehran from building a nuclear bomb.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will join his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif on Wednesday for a meeting of the so-called E3+3 on the nuclear deal, chaired by the European Union.

Turning to North Korea, Le Drian said that "very strong" pressure from sanctions would compel leader Kim Jong-Un to come to the negotiating table to put an end to his missile and nuclear programs.

"Military action is not required," said the foreign minister.

"To bring North Korea to the negotiating table, the only possible way is to apply very strong pressure," he added.

The UN Security Council last week imposed a new raft on sanctions on North Korea after it carried out its sixth and most powerful nuclear test.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Members of a Goa-based Muslim outfit today staged a peace march to denounce the atrocities on Rohingyas in Myanmar and sought the intervention of India and the UN to stop their exodus from the neighbouring country.

Nearly 100 members of the Salcette Muslim Forum in Margao, located 35 km south of Panaji, took out the march.

The protesters alleged thousands of Rohingya Muslims have been subjected to "torture" and forced to flee their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine state.

They also submitted a memorandum addressed to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The memorandum was submitted to South Goa District Collector Anjali Sehrawat.

"Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have been rendered homeless in Myanmar and their human rights violated," they said in the memorandum.

The forum demanded the UN and Indian government's intervention to stop atrocities against the community.

The outfit said the world body should immediately use its high offices and stop the bloodshed in Myanmar.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BJP president Amit Shah today said continuance of his party's government in Gujarat was needed for a "peaceful" and "curfew free" atmosphere, a barb aimed at the Congress' stint in power before 1995.

Shah also appealed to leaders of the cooperative sector associated with his party to reach out to farmers and ensure the BJP's tally rises to 150 in the upcoming polls.

Crediting the BJP and its government for the completion of the Narmada dam, which was dedicated to the nation by Modi yesterday, Shah said the people of Gujarat are no longer dependent on water supplied through tankers which was a "routine during the Congress rule before 1995".

"Gujarat became a highly developed state because the BJP has been in power since 1995 and due to the efforts of the cooperative sector. If we want a 'curfew mukt', 'tanker mukt' and peaceful Gujarat where a Rath Yatra procession passes off without any trouble, the rule of BJP is necessary," he said.

Shah, who was addressing a gathering of leaders of the cooperative sector, said the Congress was "daydreaming" about coming to power in the state, and asked them to ensure Gujarat does not slip into "wrong hands".

He said it was because of the BJP government that the state had round-the-clock power supply.

As part of the BJP's efforts to court farmers in the state where elections are due later this year, Modi had yesterday inaugurated the Amreli Agriculture Produce Market Committee's (APMC's) new marketing yard in Saurashtra.

Shah said the cooperative sector leaders should work to ensure that the party won 150 out of the state's 182 Assembly seats in the upcoming polls.

"When Narendra Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat, the BJP had won 129 seats. Now, when he is our prime minister, we must get 150. It is the duty of cooperative leaders to reach out to farmers and make them understand what the BJP has done for them," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Celebrated lyricist Gulzar along with a bevy of musical talents performed live today evening here at Vodafone Aagomoni, the annual night-long musical extravaganza on the eve of Mahalaya, heralding the advent of much awaited Durga puja.

Into its 17th edition this year, Vodafone Aagomoni began at Science City auditorium and is slated to go on till late in the night before the recorded rendition of the iconic 'Chandipath' on All India Radio by Birendra Krishna Bhadra begins playing early morning tomorrow.

Like previous occasions, the event brought an eclectic mix of music and dance talents together like Gulzar, Bhupinder Singh, Mitali Singh, Mamata Shankar, Usha Utthup, Upal Sengupta, Anindya Chatterjee, Iman Chakraborty, Indrani Dutta among others, taking centre stage.

Traditionally, the privilege of just select invitees, the latest edition of Vodafone Aagomoni made the proceedings accessible to a larger group of music lovers.

Vodafone Aagomoni 2017 was live on the Vodafone Play app. Vodafone customers across the globe can also download and log on to the app to get a live feel of the event.

"

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Calcutta High Court today adjourned till Wednesday hearing of petitions for extension of immersion schedule for Durga puja that has been restricted by the West Bengal government in view of Muharram.

A division bench presided by Acting Chief Justice Nishita Mhatre took the decision to allow a comprehensive hearing of the three petitions later because there was paucity of time as Mhatre was retiring today.

State Advocate General Kishore Dutta submitted before the bench, which also comprised Justice T Chakraborty, that the government will allow immersion of all Durga idols that reach the designated sites on the banks of rivers and other water bodies till 10 pm on Vijaya Dashami at the end of the five-day festival.

The state had on Friday told the court that it has decided to extend the deadline for immersion from 6 pm to 10 pm on Vijaya Dashami that falls on September 30.

Immersion of idols would again be allowed from October two, the state had informed the court.

No immersion of idols would be allowed on October one, when Muharram is scheduled to be observed.

Counsel for one of the petitioners Smarajit Roy Chowdhury today reiterated his prayer before the court that immersion of idols in rivers and other water bodies in the state be allowed till 1.36 am on Vijaya Dashami in accordance with the 'Vishuddha Siddhanta', one of the three almanacs followed by Durga puja organisers in the state.

Another petitioner claimed that there was no bar on immersion if the date coincided with Muharram till a few years ago and prayed that it be allowed this year too on October one.

When the third petitioner's counsel rose to make submissions, the division bench said that since there were diverse prayers by petitioners and all of them wanted to be heard, it was adjourning the petitions till Wednesday.

The bench said it would be difficult to hear all the parties as also the submissions of the Advocate General during the course of the day and with the Acting Chief Justice Mhatre retiring today, it was adjourning the matters for hearing on Wednesday.

The petitions are likely to be taken up for hearing by a division bench presided by Mhatre's successor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Delhi High Court today put on hold the trial court proceedings against Uber India in respect of prosecuting and impounding of vehicles operating under its banner, by the AAP government for alleged violation of licence conditions.

Justice A K Pathak issued the direction on the pleas of Uber India President Amit Jain and General Manager North Gagan Bhatia, who were directed by the magisterial court to appear before it.

They were also aggrieved by the lower court's August 19 decision that it will frame notice against them on the next date of hearing on September 23.

The high court, however, stayed the magisterial court proceedings till February 23, 2018 by when the transport department of Delhi government has been asked to file their response to the pleas of the two Uber India officials.

The application seeking stay of the trial court proceedings was moved in the main plea filed by them against the transport department's action of challaning and impounding vehicles operating under the Uber banner.

Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar, appearing for the Uber India officials, said the department could not have issued the challans or impounded the vehicles as the Delhi High Court had allowed the company to operate as a cab aggregator till the Motor Vehicle Act was amended to regulate them.

He said the amendment of the Act has been approved by the Lok Sabha and was awaiting approval of the Rajya Sabha, when the action by the transport department was taken.

A transport department official, who was present in the court, submitted that after the high court allowed the cab aggregators like Uber and Ola to function till a law is framed and no challans have been issued.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
War hero Arjan Singh, who led India's Air Force against Pakistan in 1965, was today cremated with full state honours, as fighter jets paid homage to him in a flypast and guns boomed a last salute to the only Marshal of the force.

The body of the 98-year-old legendary aviator was consigned to the flames by his son Arvind amid chantings of Sikh hymns at the Brar Square crematorium in Delhi Cantonment in the presence of several senior political leaders and the top brass of the Indian military.

A 17-gun salute was given in his honour while the IAF paid homage to the iconic hero of the 1965 war with a flypast of Sukhoi Su 30 fighter jets in the 'missing man formation' -- an aerial manoeuvre to show respect to a departed military leader.

Mi-17 V5 helicopters flying in a 'vic' formation and trooping IAF colours carried out another flypast in honour of Singh, who died of a cardiac arrest on Saturday.

"End of an Era-Last Salute to the Brave Air warrior and a great leader," the IAF tweeted.

The national flag flew at half-mast at all government buildings in the national capital in honour of Singh.

Earlier, Singh's body, wrapped in the Indian tricolour, was taken to the Brar Square crematorium from his central Delhi residence, 7 Kautilya Marg, on a gun carriage.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, BJP veteran L K Advani, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and Army chief General Bipin Rawat were among those present at the crematorium.

A number of former service chiefs, senior officials of the three services and Singh's family members also paid their tributes to the departed military icon at Brar Square.

One of the finest soldiers of India, Singh had led a young Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singh's residence yesterday and paid glowing tributes to the war hero.

Singh is the only officer to have attained the highest rank of the Marshal of the Air Force, equivalent to the Army's five star field marshal, an honour given only to Sam Manekshaw and KM Cariappa.

Singh was a fearless and exceptional pilot who played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world, former colleagues said.

Though known as a man of few words, Singh had deep knowledge of air power and applied it to a wide spectrum of areas, said Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Kapil Kak, a former IAF vice chief.

He said Singh had assiduously led the IAF during the 1965 war and denied success to Pakistan's air force though it was better equipped with American support.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The nation today bade a teary farewell to the Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh as the legendary warrior was laid to rest with full state honours including a fly past by fighter jets here.

Singh's body was consigned to flames amid chanting of hymns at the Brar Square in Delhi Cantonment in the presence of several senior political leaders and top brass of the Indian Military.

A gun salute was given to Singh while IAF Sukhoi fighter jets carried out a fly past in the 'missing man formation' in honour of the 1965 war hero who died on Saturday. There was a fly past by IAF choppers also.

The missing man formation is an aerial manoeuvre to show respect to a departed military leader.

The national flag flew at half-mast at all government buildings in the national capital in the honour of the iconic hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war, who was the only IAF officer to be promoted to five-star rank.

Earlier, Singh's body, wrapped in a flag, was taken to the Brar Square crematorium from his residence on a gun carriage.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the three service chiefs were among those present at the crematorium. A number of former chiefs of the Army and Indian Air Force and Singh's family members paid tributes to the departed military icon at Brar Sqare.

A lot of people including Sitharaman were seen getting emotional when Singh's body was consigned to the flames.

One of the finest soldiers of India, Singh, who had led an young Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, died on Saturday following a cardiac arrest at the age of 98.

All senior officers of the three services were present at the Brar Square besides several political leaders including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and BJP veteran L K Advani.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singh's residence yesterday and paid glowing tributes to the war hero.

Singh, the only officer to attain the highest post of Marshal of the Air Force, a rank equivalent to the Army's five star field marshal, was a fearless and exceptional pilot who played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.

Known as a man of few words, Singh was a fearless pilot and had profound knowledge about air power and applied it in a wide spectrum of areas.

Singh had assiduously led the IAF during the 1965 war and denied success to Pakistan's air force though it was better equipped with American support.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Iraq's prime minister says between 970 and 1,260 civilians were killed during the grueling nine- month battle against the Islamic State group in Mosul.

Haider Al-Abadi says: "We've tried our utmost to protect the civilians, that's why our security forces have paid a very high price," explaining that Iraqi security forces faced more than double the number of casualties than the city's civilians.

Unlike in past battles against IS, in Mosul, Iraqi officials called on the more than 1 million civilians living in the city to remain in their homes to avoid massive displacement.

The presence of civilians quickly complicated the fight with IS fighters who used them as human shields.

As Iraqi forces punched into Mosul's more densely populated neighborhoods, civilian casualties spiked and human rights groups warned of the dangers of using large munitions in the packed urban environment.

On March 17, more than 100 civilians were killed in a single US airstrike targeting two IS fighters in west Mosul, according to a Pentagon investigation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A court near here today rejected the bail plea of Malayalam film actor Dileep, arrested in connection with the abduction and sexual assault of an actress in February.

The development came on a day when Dileep's wife and actress Kavya Madhavan filed an anticipatory bail plea in the Kerala High Court, apprehending arrest in the case against her husband.

The plea will come up in the high court on September 25.

The Angamaly magistrate court rejected Dileep's bail plea for the second time.

The high court had also rejected his bail plea twice.

Dileep has been lodged in the Aluva sub-jail after being arrested in the case on July 10.

In his bail plea, Dileep had submitted that he has completed 60 days in judicial custody and hence, is entitled to a statutory bail.

The prosecution opposed his bail plea citing that the investigation into the case was still not completed.

The prosecution also argued that if he is granted bail, that will adversely affect the probe.

There was sufficient material to implicate the accused in the case, it had said.

The Angamaly court has extended the judicial remand of Dileep till September 28.

Six persons, including 'Pulsar' Suni, were arrested in connection with the incident.

The high court had dismissed Dileep's second bail petition that came up on August 29, after considering the evidence against the actor, produced by the prosecution in a sealed cover.

The police have claimed that the conspiracy to abduct and assault the actress in a moving car and film the act was hatched by Dileep.

The actress, who has worked in Tamil and Telugu films, was abducted and allegedly molested inside her car for two hours by the accused, who had forced their way into the vehicle on February 17 night and later escaped in a busy area here.

In her plea, Kavya alleged that the officers in the probe team "made open threats of arraigning" her as an accused to "cover up lacunas in the unfounded allegations against her husband Dileep and intimidate" all persons associated with him.

Considering the anticipatory bail plea filed by Malayalam film director Nadirshah, a close friend of Dileep, the court today directed the police to produce the details of questioning in a sealed cover.

Nadirshah was questioned by police yesterday in connection with the actress abduction case.

The police informed the court that the probe team could not get all required information from Nadirshah due to his ill-health.

The case has also been posted to September 25 for further hearing.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Uttarakhand Police today arrested Rajiv Chaudhry in a kidney transplant racket unearthed recently in the district, a day after four other accused were arrested in this connection.

Chaudhry, who ran Gangotri Charitable Hospital in Lal Tappar area, was arrested from Raiwala area of the city late last night, Superintendent Of Police (rural) Sarita Dobhal, who leads the investigating team, said.

"A total of nine persons, including the kidney transplant racket kingpin Amit Raut, have been arrested in connection with the case so far," she said.

However, four more accused, including Raut's son Akshay, are still at large, Dobhal said, adding that searches are being conducted at different places to arrest them.

"Aided by his wife Anupama, Chaudhry looked after the entire management of the hospital," she said.

The fresh racket was unearthed on September 1 in Gangotri Charitable Hospital in Lal Tappar area of rural Dehradun.

Anupama and two other accused -- Jagdish bhai and Abhishek Sharma -- were arrested from Doiwala area yesterday whereas Raut, his brother Jivan and a nurse named Sarla were arrested from a hotel in Panchkula, Haryana, on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday.

"Raut's driver Billu was also arrested during the same period from Doiwala area. A middleman named Javed was arrested on the day the racket was busted," she said.

Jagdish Bhai, who hails from Surat, worked as a kidney racket agent in Gujarat and the third arrested accused Sharma owns a pharmacy which supplied all medicines required to the hospital for kidney transplant.

Sharma hails from Kankhal area of Haridwar, the SP said.

Three more accused, apart from Akshay, for whom searches are still being conducted by police are Sanjay Das, Sushma Kumari who worked with Raut in the operation theatre and an agent Chandana Gudiya.

Meanwhile, the police is also gathering information on the criminal antecedents of Raut from different states and union territories.

It has been found that Raut is also wanted in several states like Gujarat and Maharashtra for running similar kidney transplant rackets.

Records of properties like bungalows and flats owned by the father-son duo in different cities all over the country are also being probed, the official said.

They are said to own a five star hotel in Mumbai, she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BJP president Amit Shah today told a special SIT court here that former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani was present in the state assembly on the morning of the Naroda Gam riot on February 28, 2002.

Shah appeared before the special court as a defence witness for Kodnani, one of the accused in the case.

The BJP president also told the court that he had met Kodnani at the Sola Civil Hospital that morning. The police, he said, escorted him and Kodnani to a safe place as agitated crowds had surrounded them at the hospital.

Shah added that he did not know where Kodnani went from the hospital after police escorted them some distance away from it.

Eleven Muslims were killed in Naroda Gam area on February 28, 2002, a day after the Godhra train burning. A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

Shah's deposition started before Judge P B Desai who had last Tuesday summoned him in response to an application filed by Kodnani.

The court had allowed Kodnani's plea to summon Shah and some others as witnesses in her defence in April this year.

On the day of the Naroda Gam riot near Ahmedabad, she said, she had visited the Sola Civil Hospital after attending the Legislative Assembly and was not present at the spot where the violence took place.

Shah, then an MLA, was also present at Sola Civil Hospital where bodies of the karsevaks killed in the Sabarmati Train burning incident were brought from Godhra. Shah's testimony would help prove her 'alibi', that she was present elsewhere when the crime took place, she said.

Kodnani, who was an MLA in 2002, was made a junior minister in Chief Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2007.

Three weeks ago, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months. A bench headed by then Chief Justice J S Khehar asked the lower court to complete recording of evidence of defence witnesses in two months.

Naroda Gam is one of the nine major 2002 communal riot cases which were investigated by the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team.

Kodnani has been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the Naroda Patiya riot case in which 96 people were killed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, today left for London to see her ailing mother, triggering speculation that the Sharif family may not return to the country face corruption and money laundering cases.

Maryam and her husbandCapt (Retd) Safdar left for London by a PIA flight this morning, a day before they were summoned to appear before an accountability court in Islamabad in corruption cases linked to Panama Papers scandal.

Sharif and his sons - Hassan and Hussain - are already in London.

Maryam, 43, widely seen as the political successor of Sharif, was here to oversee the campaign of her mother Kulsoom Nawaz in Lahore's NA-120 by poll that was held yesterday.

Kulsoom, who is undergoing cancer treatment, won the election after bagging more than 61,000 votes defeating her Pakistan Tahreek-i-Insaf rival with a margin of over 13,000 votes.

The NA-120 seat fell vacant on July 28 after the Supreme Court disqualified 67-year-old Sharif in the Panama Papers scandal.

The Islamabad-based accountability court has summoned Nawaz Sharif and his sons, daughter Maryam and his son-in-law Safdar tomorrow in connection with three cases filed against them by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Sharif and his sons have been named in three cases - Avenfield Flats, Flagship Investment Limited and 15 other companies as well as Al-Azizia Company Limited and Hill Metals Establishment - while Maryam and Safdar have been named in the Avenfield case.

"Nawaz Sharif and his children will not appear before the accountability court tomorrow," a PML leader told PTI today.

"The Sharif family doubts that it will get justice in the NAB cases, therefore there is no point in appearing before the accountability court," he said.

PML-Quaid President and former prime minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain told reporters that Nawaz and his children would not return from London.

"Sharif will not return to the country to face accountability," Hussain said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed appreciation for the people who participated in the 'Swachhta hi Sewa' campaign.

Several Union ministers had also participated in the campaign yesterday which coincided with the birthday of Modi.

Modi had in his recent 'Mann ki Baat' programme urged the people to hold a sanitation campaign from September 15 to October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

"I specially appreciate all those who took part in cleanliness activities & other social service initiatives across India yesterday," the prime pinster tweeted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Most of the 3,000 additional US troops being deployed to Afghanistan under President Donald Trump's new strategy to shore up security are on their way to the war-torn country, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said today.

Trump last month announced a new Afghanistan policy to knock back the Taliban, who are continuing to mount deadly attacks, control large areas of territory and are killing local Afghan forces in the thousands.

Mattis told Pentagon reporters that he didn't want to give precise numbers but said he was sending "exactly over 3,000" troops to Afghanistan, where they will bolster the approximately 11,000 American forces already there.

"Frankly I haven't signed the last of the orders right now as we look at specifics," he said.

"Most of them are on their way or under orders now and I'd prefer not to give any more information that helps the enemy."



US generals have for months been calling the situation in Afghanistan a "stalemate," despite years of support for Afghan partners, continued help from a NATO coalition and an overall cost in fighting and reconstruction to the United States of more than USD 1 trillion.

The war turns 16 next month, and is America's longest- ever conflict.

Trump, who had previously advocated a US withdrawal from Afghanistan, changed his mind after US military leaders convinced him that the costs of pulling out would be worse than remaining.

The president's new strategy for Afghanistan will take a page from successful US efforts over the past two years to strengthen Iraqi security forces against the Islamic State group with better training, logistical support and the battlefield backup of US artillery and air strikes on enemy positions.

The United States is also pressing for NATO partners to increase their own troop levels in Afghanistan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Niti Aayog member Ramesh Chand today expressed hope that Madhya Pradesh will remain the front runner in agriculture sector in the next 10-12 years.

"Madhya Pradesh, among different states, has accomplished remarkable works in agriculture sector and it is expected that it will be the leader in farm sector in next 10 -12 years," Chand said addressing heads of government departments' at Mantralaya here, a press release said.

The state has been receiving the prestigious annual Krishi Karman Award for excelling in food grain production in the country consecutively since five years.

Chand said that the state government has also done extraordinary work in power sector adding that country's 60 to 65 per cent power is being generated in the state, the release further said.

The NITI Aayog member opined that MP should make strides in non-agricultural sectors as well, it added.

The meeting among others was attended by MP Planning Commission vice chairman Chaitanya Kashyap, it added.

Earlier, Chand met MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at Mantralaya.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Members of the World Muhajir Congress have held a peace rally in front of the White House in support of US President Donald Trump's new South Asia policy in which he hit out at Pakistan for harbouring terrorists.

Trump in his new policy last month vowed to keep the US troops in Afghanistan so that a hasty recall did not create a void to be filled by terrorist organisations like al-Qaeda and the ISIS.

He pledged to fight against all forms of terrorism and bring stability in South Asia. Trump said that America had been paying Pakistan billions of dollars while at the same time the country was housing terror organisations that the US has been fighting against.

"We stand today in compassion with the people and government of the United States at a time when the USA and the rest of the world are facing the menace of ruthless religious extremism and terrorism," World Muhajir Congress (WMC) said in a statement yesterday.

Muhajir is an Arabic-origin term used in Pakistan to describe Muslim immigrants, of multi-ethnic origin, and their descendants, who migrated from India after the Partition. According to WMC, about 50 million Muhajirs live in Karachi, Hyderabad and other urban areas of the Sindh province.

"We collectively extend our support to the US Administration in its efforts to eliminate terror safe havens on Pakistani soil," they said.

The participants held banners and placards highlighting Pakistan's role in promoting terrorism and demanded that the Trump Administration declare Pakistana "state sponsoring terrorism".

They called for the elimination of terror sanctuaries in Pakistan.

"We also express our deep sympathies with the families of victims who lost their loved ones in 9/11 terror attacks and other acts of terrorism around the globe," it said.

The rally was attended by leaders and activists from different political and ethnic groups from South Asia, including Muhajirs, Balochs, Afghans and Indians.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
National Aluminium Company ltd (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Ltd (HCL) and Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL) have signed a pact to explore a joint venture formation.

"An MoU was signed today...Among NALCO, Hindustan Copper Limited and Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd at Bhubaneswar to explore the possibility of forming a joint venture company," NALCO said in a BSE filing.

The JV will identify, explore, acquire, develop, process strategic minerals overseas and sale of these materials in India and any other countries for commercial use, the filing said.

The JV will be formed to supply strategic minerals to India to "meet the domestic requirement due to non- availability in the country and giving a big push to Make in India".

Shares of NALCO today closed at Rs 82.15 a unit, up 2.75 per cent as compared to the previous close on the BSE.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Southern Naval Command is on high alert to face any contingency following a request from the state disaster management authority in view of incessant rains in Kerala in the past few days.

A Defence release today said a request was received from the Kerala Disaster Management Authority (KDMA) yesterday for possible requirement of immediate assistance.

Based on the request "Operation Madad" (Op-Madad) has been executed by the Southern Naval Command with effect from yesterday particularly since Kerala is expected to encounter wet weather for the next few days, the release said.

As part of Op-Madad, Relief Operation Center (ROC) had been setup at Joint Operations Center (JOC) at Naval Base here, it said.

Personnel, equipment and flood relief material, including boats and diving teams, have been kept on standby to meet any emergent requirement at short notice.

Further, ships and aircraft were also at short notice for any assistance to the civil populace/fishermen.

Meanwhile, the Navy today assisted 10 fishermen onboard stranded in the sea off Thrissur following engine failure and flooding caused by ingress of water.

After a communication from Coastal police station Munakkakadavu about the boat 'SANAMOL' in distress about 35 nautical miles from Kochi, an ALH helicopter was launched for immediate "Search and Rescue" (SAR) operation at 6 am.

It was followed by dispatch of Indian Naval Ship Kabra later to render necessary assistance, the release said.

The ship remained in the area ensuring safety of the crew onboard SANAMOL till it was towed to safety by another vessel sent by their employer, it said.

Both the boats reached Munakkakadvu safely and the ship returned to Kochi, it added.

Several parts of the state have been lashed by heavy rains in the past few days.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Chennai bench of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) today orderedcommencement of the corporate insolvency resolution processagainst online homestay startup Stayzilla and asked them topay the outstanding dues to JigSaw Advertising and Solutions.

"The operational creditor (Jigsaw) has fulfilled all the requirements of law ...We are satisfied that corporate debtor (Stayzilla) committed default in making payment of outstandingdebt," NCLT said in its order. "Therefore, we order commencement of the corporate insolvency resolution process which ordinarily shall get completed within 180 days, reckoning from the day this order is passed," it said.

Jigsaw had alleged Stayzilla had defrauded it to the tune of about Rs 1.68 crore for services it rendered since last year.

NCLT also appointed an Interim Resolution Professional to take over the company assets for liquidation and pay off all the dues owed to the prosecutor --Jigsaw.

"We appoint Mr Karthigeyan Srinivasan, as IRP as proposed by the operational creditor .. The IRP is directed to take charge of the corporate debtor's management immediately," NCLT said.

It also directed IRP to cause public announcement within three days from the date the copy of the order is received, and call for submissions of claim in manner prescribed.

Speaking to PTI from Chennai, Jigsaw's co-proprietor Radha Shekhar's husband G C Shekhar, said his family would wait and see if the entire due would be paid by the defaulting company.

"I would cross the bridge if need be," Jigsaw o-proprietor C S Aditya said.

Shekhar said the options left with defaulting company were to either move the Delhi-based NCLT or the Supreme Court if it finds technical shortcomings in the petition filed by Jigsaw. NCLT also prohibited Stayzilla from transferring, encumbering, alienating or disposing any of its assets, besides recovering of any property by an owner or lessor where such property is occupied by or in the possession of Stayzilla.

Yogendra Vasupal, Co-Founder of Stayzilla, was arrested on March 14 for alleged cheating and criminal intimidation.

The Central Crime Branch sleuths had arrested Vasupal on a complaint from Aditya and booked him on charges of criminal breach of trust, intimidation and cheating.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The need of the hour is to curb the growing intolerance among people who value their views more than someone else's life, a Delhi court has said, observing that such instances reflected a return to "the age of barbarism".

It sent four men, including a government servant, to three years of rigorous imprisonment for grievously assaulting their neighbours, a man and his son in 2007, over political rivalry. The convicts were allegedly then workers of BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri, according to the complaint.

"The case depicts a glaring example of rising intolerance among the natives of this city who, even on trivial issues involving their alleged political faiths, do not even hesitate in attacking their own neighbours with such fury that even if the other side loses life, that would hardly matter to them.

"A person in a democratic set up like India is free to follow any political ideology, but it does not give him a right to force others to succumb to his mandate," Additional Sessions Judge Lokesh Kumar Sharma said.

Convicts Vijay Kumar, Rishi Pal, a government servant, Ashok and Satbir were sent behind bars for offences under sections 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 325 (causing grave injuries) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) of the IPC.

"The need of the hour is to curb such rising intolerance and to award a suitable and adequate sentence commensurate to the gravity of offence," the court said.

According to the prosecution, on August 4, 2007, the four accused grievously injured victim Raju, who was their neighbour, by attacking him with sticks and sword on his head, in order to kill him.

In the incident, which took place in the Tughlakabad area of south Delhi near the victim's residence, his son Nilesh was also seriously injured with a fracture in his thigh.

Raju and his son were taken to AIIMS Trauma Centre in an unconscious state. They later lodged the complaint in the hospital, alleging that the accused were the political workers of the BJP leader.

The court, while relying on the victim's testimony, held them all guilty and said people do not value neighbours who are considered to be more precious than relatives.

"Neighbours are considered to be more precious than the relatives because in the event of any emergency, it is the neighbours upon whom a person could fall back for assistance and not on the distant relatives.

"However, with rise of materialistic society, somehow, we are deviating from our ancient culture, ethics and moralities and are returning to the age of barbarism as was prevalent in the primitive society," it said.

During the proceedings, the accused had denied the allegations and claimed they were falsely implicated by the complainant.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said today that there was no intelligence input suggesting that Rohingyas were a security threat in the state till 2014.

The National Conference leader was reacting to the affidavit filed by the Centre in the Supreme Court that Rohingyas' presence in the country would pose a "serious" national security threat.

"This threat, at least in J&K, is a post-2014 development. No such intelligence reports ever came up for discussion in Unified HQ meetings," Omar, who was the chief minister of the state till 2014, wrote on Twitter.

The Unified Headquarters comprises Army, para-military forces, police and state and central intelligence agencies. The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister is the chairperson of the group.

Terming the Rohingya refugees as "illegal" immigrants, the central government today told the Supreme Court that some of them were part of a "sinister" design of Pakistan's ISI and terror groups such as the ISIS, whose presence in the country will pose a "serious" national security threat.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) made its stand clear in a much-awaited affidavit in the apex court, in which it also said the fundamental right to settle in any part of the country was available only to citizens and not the Rohingyas.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
App-cab operator Uber today announced a partnership with Kolkata Police to allow quick access to 'Bondhu' (Friend), a citizen-safety mobile app of the city police, through the Uber app.

"The Bondhu app allows users to connect directly to the Kolkata Police's control room in case of any emergency," according to a press release issued here by Uber.

"With this partnership, Bondhu will now be accessible to all riders and driver partners of Uber in Kolkata," it said.

The release also claimed that since its launch on June 22, 2017, around 40,000 people have downloaded the Bondhu app.

"Bondhu app has been an integral technological innovation in providing instant help to our citizens in distress across the city. We have now streamlined the process of providing safety via Bondhu app which makes it easier for our citizens rather than key in the control room number," additional commissioner(I) of Kolkata Police Vineet Goyal said.

"The integration of the Bondhu App is a big step towards further strengthening the safety net available to our riders and drivers," said Uber's general manager at Kolkata, Arpit Mundra.

The first phase of the partnership will see Uber developing a permanent in-app access for Bondhu, including a link to download it from the app store, while the second phase will allow users to directly access the Bondhu app from within the Uber app.

The third and final phase will involve an Application Programme Interface (API) integration between both the apps, the release said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Nuclear energy is an inevitable option for India and the world, the country's top atomic scientist said today, but cautioned that it should be harnessed while preventing proliferation.

Sekhar Basu, Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission said this on the sidelines of an event was organised by the Permanent Mission of India at the UN office in Vienna ahead of the annual general conference of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The event was attended by representatives of 55 countries, including Pakistan.

His comments come in the backdrop of North Korea firing a ballistic missile over Japan on August 29 and September 15, in a major escalation of tensions by Pyongyang.

On September 3, North Korea carried out a sixth nuclear test, sending tensions soaring over its weapons ambitions and causing global concern.

"India believes that nuclear energy is an inevitable option not only for it but for the world and there is a need for augmenting human resources for sustaining the large-scale deployment of nuclear energy," Basu said.

The current capacity of 21 Indian nuclear power reactors is 6780 MW and this roughly constitutes 3 per cent of total power generated in the country.

Basu, who is the secretary of Department of Atomic Energy, which controls all the nuclear energy establishments in the country, said India has established the Global Center for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP) to promote "safe, secure, proliferation resistant and sustainable nuclear energy for the service of the mankind" through global partnership.

"India also believes that this has to be done not only in a safe and secure manner but should also address the issues of proliferation resistance and sustainability," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan today summoned the Swiss Ambassador to lodge protest over the display of anti-Pakistan posters in Geneva, Radio Pakistan reported.

Ambassador Thomas Kolly was summoned by the Foreign Office in the wake of some posters, which read "Free Balochistan", emerging in Geneva. The poster campaign was apparently orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a banned entity in Pakistan.

Officials said the Switzerland government has been urged to take action against moves which are against the sovereignty of Pakistan.

Earlier, the Pakistan's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva demanded that the government of Switzerland take strict actions against those involved in the act.

In his letter, the Permanent Representative of the Mission, Farrukh Amil, said the use of Swiss soil by terrorist and violent secessionists for nefarious designs against Pakistan and its 200 million people is totally unacceptable.

He said terrorists or elements linked with terrorists operating openly in the peaceful and serene city of Geneva for their propaganda campaigns is a matter of grave concern.

The Ambassador added that Swiss authorities should be alert about presence of BLA terrorists, or elements linked with them, in Geneva.

Amil also demanded an investigation into the campaign with a view to blocking its recurrence and expressed hope that Swiss authorities will proceed against the local accomplices of the BLA for supporting a terror group.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
"Saawan", a story of a physically-challenged boy left to die in the wilderness, is Pakistan's official entry for the Oscars next year.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film, inspired by true events and directed by cinematographer Farhan Alam, is the country's choice in the foreign-language category.

The story revolves around the nine-year-old boy (Karam Hussein), who is rejected by his father and left to die in the wilderness. He begins a dangerous journey home after he is motivated by the memories of his mother (Najiba Faiz).

"Saawan" is written by Mashood Qadri, who has also penned the satire "Riyasat Mein Riyasat".

Aseem Sinha, who has been associated with many Bollywood films, including the 2001 historical drama "Zubeidaa", has edited the movie.

Last year, "Mah e Mir" was the country's entry in the foreign-language category to the Academy Awards. Iranian film "The Salesman" won the Oscar in this category.

Pakistan boasts of two Oscars in the documentary category, both by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy - "Saving Face" (2012) and short documentary category for "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness" (2016).

The 90th Academy Awards will be held on March 4 next year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
People in the national capital appeared to be more concerned about having community centres than parks, the Delhi High Court today lamented while extending till December 8 its interim order putting on hold the construction of a community centre by the DDA.

The court was hearing a PIL challenging the Delhi Development Authority's (DDA) decision to convert a park in a north Delhi residential area into a community centre.

A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar said, "Everybody wants community centres at their doorstep. Are there enough parks for the people in the area?"



The PIL, filed on behalf of a minor girl, has sought a direction to restrain the DDA from "destroying the park" in north Delhi's Rohini area by constructing the multi-storey community hall inside the Hanuman Mandir park there.

The petitioner's counsel, Akhil Sachar, claimed that the residents of the locality, especially children, were severely affected and aggrieved by the "illegal and arbitrary decision" of the DDA to construct the centre which will "destroy" the 30-year-old park.

The plea claimed that there was a vacant plot of DDA land available in the area which was planned for community services so there was no justification to destroy the park.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today asked the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute to set up a medical board to examine a rape survivor who has sought termination of her 25-week old foetus.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra asked the head of the medical institution to set the doctors' panel by tomorrow to examine the risk factors and feasibility of aborting the foetus at 11.30 AM on September 20.

The bench, also comprising justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, said the report should be made available to it as soon as possible and fixed the plea for hearing on September 21.

The rape survivor has challenged the Karnataka High Court order refusing the nod to abort the foetus.

Meanwhile, the court sought assistance of Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar who also favoured expeditious setting up of the medical board keeping in mind the urgency of the matter.

The provision of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act prohibits abortion of the foetus beyond 20-week.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) today challenged an anti-terrorism court's verdict which had set five Pakistani Tabilan suspects free and declared former military ruler Pervez Musharraf an absconder in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case.

Bhutto, the 54-year-old PPP chief and a two-time prime minister, was killed along with more than 20 people in a gun and bomb attack in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh during an election campaign rally on December 27, 2007.

The anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi had set free five Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) suspects citing lack of evidence. The court had also ordered authorities to confiscate Musharraf's properties and declared him an absconder.

PPP's senior advocate Latif Khosa filed three appeals in the Rawalpindi bench of the Lahore High Court against the August 31 verdict.

In one of the appeals, he asked the court to try and convict Musharraf, in absentia, if he had failed to comply with the arrest warrant issued by the court.

Khosa said that Bhutto, in one of her letters, had declared that Musharraf would be held responsible in case she was killed.

In a second appeal, the PPP lawyer asked the court to change the sentence of two police officers into death sentence.

Saud Aziz was police chief of Rawalpindi Khurram while Shahzad was Superintendent of Police when Bhutto was assassinated in 2007.

In the third appeal, the PPP sought death sentence for the five TTP militants--Rafaqat Hussain, Husnain Gul, Sher Zaman, Aitzaz Shah and Abdul Rashid.

Benazir, daughter of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was the first woman prime minister of any Muslim country to be assassinated.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India-born former top US federal prosecutor, Preet Bharara, who was sacked by President Donald Trump, will launch a podcast to discuss justice and fairness issues including the probe into the alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential polls.

The 48-year-old attorney told USA Today that he also plans to address his firing by Trump in one of the first podcasts, "so people will understand the context from which I'm speaking."



Bharara, an Obama-era appointee, was fired in March from his post as the US attorney for parts of New York City, including Manhattan.

"I'm not putting anything off limits," Bharara said.

"I'm not doing a weekly podcast to throw bombs. I'm a private citizen, I'm not special counsel Mueller," Bharara said, referring to former FBI director Robert Mueller, who's investigating Russia's suspected campaign of cyberattacks and fake to influence the 2016 presidential election and possible collusion with Trump associates.

A Podcast is a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series.

The podcasts could present Bharara with opportunities to discuss Trump and the new administration from his perspective, the report said.

"I have personal experience with how this president seems to view rule of law and law and order issues, and I have not been especially shy about that on social media," Bharara says.

Bharara's ouster from the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, one of the nation's most powerful legal posts, has given him more leeway to speak freely, the report said.

His new podcast series is titled "Stay Tuned With Preet" that launches on Wednesday - a winking reference to the catchphrase Bharara frequently employed to parry questions from reporters about continuing federal investigations, the report said.

Trump fired him and 45 other US Attorney holdovers from the Obama administration- after Bharara says he declined to return a phone call from the president, the report said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Russian President Vladimir Putin today attended the weeklong war games with Belarus that have demonstrated the Russian military's resurgent might and made neighboring countries nervous.

Putin observed the Zapad (West) 2017 drills, tank attacks, airborne assaults and air raids that got underway Thursday at the Luzhsky range in western Russia, just over 100 kilometers east of Estonia's border.

As part of the maneuvers, the Russian military today also test-fired its state-of-the-art cruise missile at a mock target in the Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan, showcasing the weapon's extended range and precision strike capability.

Some nervous NATO members, including the Baltic states and Poland, have criticized an alleged lack of transparency about the war games and questioned Moscow's intentions.

The exercises, held in several firing ranges in Belarus and western Russia, run through Wednesday. Russia and Belarus say 5,500 Russian and 7,200 Belarusian troops are participating, but some NATO countries have estimated that up to 100,000 troops could be involved.

With Russia's relations with the West at a post-Cold War low point over the fighting in Ukraine, worries about the war games ranged from allegations that Russia could permanently deploy its forces to Belarus to fears of a surprise onslaught on the Baltics.

Russia and Belarus have said the exercises simulate a response to foreign-backed "extremists" and insisted the maneuvers don't threaten anyone.

Their troops are fighting three invented "aggressor countries" Veishnoriya, Lubeniya and Vesbariya. However, the Baltic states Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and Poland see the monikers for the made up enemies as thinly disguised references to their nations.

NATO has rotated military units in the Baltics and Poland and staged regular drills in the region, activities Moscow has criticized as a reflection of the alliance's hostile intentions.

Russia and Belarus kept the stated number of troops involved in the drills just below 13,000, a limit allowing them to dodge more intrusive inspections by NATO in line with international agreements. The practice maneuvers nonetheless have put Russia's massive military mobilization capability on display.

They also have involved various branches of the Russian military, including the air force's long-range bombers and missile forces. In a reflection of the drills' broad scope, they featured today's launch of the Iskander-M cruise missile, a new weapon that has drawn concern from the United States.

The missile, launched from the Kapustin Yar firing range in southwestern Russia, hit a mock target at a range in Kazakhstan, some 480 kilometers away, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A rare species of giant marine snails could help protect Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef by attacking the crown-of-thorns starfish - one of the biggest natural threats to corals at the World Heritage Site, scientists said today.

The crown-of-thorns starfish is known for its incredible appetite for coral and the damage that it causes on coral reefs.

Mike Hall, Principal Research Scientist at the Australian Institute of Marine Science, explained how the rarity of the giant triton sea snail may be one reason why the crown-of- thorns is now such a threat to the survival of the Great Barrier Reef.

Scientists including those from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia, are investigating the potential of natural predators of COTS to curb populations.

They are investigating the possibility that giant tritons may play a significant role as a natural control agent for COTS outbreaks.

The crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS), Acanthaster planci, is a specialist, feeding only upon the flesh of live corals.

This animal has several biological attributes that contribute to its ability to undergo massive population fluctuations through time.

With adults consuming up to 10 square metres of live coral per year, a population outbreak of hundreds of thousands to millions of COTS can deal a significant blow to coral reefs.

COTS are a major biological cause of coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef and statistical analyses show that they are second only to the destructive power of tropical cyclones which periodically criss-cross the reef.

Surprisingly few predators feed upon the vast coral covered seascapes of the Great Barrier Reef but COTS are an exception.

As corals are fixed in one location, they have no defence against an approaching aggregation of hunting COTS.

The giant triton (Charonia tritonis) is one of the world's largest marine snails reaching a length of up to half a metre.

Due to the beauty of their shell, the giant triton has long been unsustainably harvested from coral reefs, primarily for sale to shell collectors.

While the giant triton was declared a protected species in the 1960s, after a century of heavy fishing pressure, they remain quite rare on the Great Barrier Reef.

They are also known to eat other sea stars and echinoderms such as sea cucumbers.

Giant tritons typically only eat one COTS per week so they have little application in feeding down a population of COTS numbering in hundreds of thousands. However, their very presence in the vicinity of COTS disperses aggregations.

As aggregations are dispersed, and fertilisation success rates decline, the likelihood of massive recruitment in a spawning season may well be reduced.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Employment to dependents of slain Army and central paramilitary personnel and setting up an ICU in all district hospitals were among a slew of announcements made by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat today to mark the completion of six months in office.

He also said that enhanced compensation will be given to the kin of police personnel who die in the line of duty.

Dependents of martyrs of the army and central paramilitary forces, who fail to get employment under the central rules, will be given employment by the state government on the basis of their educational qualification, the chief minister told reporters here.

The next of kin of police constables, who die in the line of duty, will now get a compensation of Rs 15 lakh in place Rs 10 lakh from the state government, he said.

A large number of youths from the state, also called the 'Veer Bhumi' (land of the brave), join the security forces.

To provide people access to better health facilities, an ICU will be set up in every district hospital, Rawat said.

The chief minister said good governance awards will be given to officials and employees at all levels in government departments to encourage better service delivery.

Also, a separate fund will be created for 156 police stations across the state to meet "emergency expenses such as for disposal of unclaimed bodies".

The chief minister also announced that by March 31, 2018 Uttarakhand will become fully open defecation free.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A junior resident doctor of Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital today allegedly committed suicide at his residence in central Delhi's Old Rajender Nagar, the police said.

Siddarth Shankar Mahapatra, a first-year post graduate student in the department of Anaesthesiology at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in RML hospital, was a resident of Odisha.

Police claimed to have found no suicide note at the spot but said that there were indications that he was suffering from depression.

However, they said they have found a note in which Mahapatra had written about "how it is a materialistic world and everything is perishable".

"It exactly cannot be called a suicide note. Prima facie, it seems that he was depressed," a senior police official said.

According to his collegues, Mahapatra, apparently, was unable to cope up with the work stress at the hospital.

Police said that they are yet to ascertain whether he took the extreme step due to personal or professional reasons.

A colleague said that Mahapatra lived along with two roommates, who are doctors of the same hospital.

"While one of the roommates had gone to Jharkhand, the other one was on night duty. He returned home from duty in the morning and found Mahapatra hanging from the fan and alerted the police," the colleague said.

Police said they were alerted about the incident at 8:38 am.

"On reaching the spot we found the doctor hanging from the fan hook in the ceiling. It is suspected that he had committed suicide," a senior police official said.

The spot was also inspected by a team from the crime branch. His family has been informed, the police said.

The RML authorities expressed grief over his death and said Mahapatra was a good student.

"He used to be a little quiet and was an introvert. But he was a good and obedient student. He recently participated in a protocol thesis presentation on September 12 which went off really well. We are not aware of any work stress. Even the faculty is shocked to hear of his suicide," Smriti Tiwari, spokesperson at RML, said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Rohingya crisis is both a humanitarian and security issue, Bangladesh minister Mohammed Shahriar Alam said today, without ruling out the possibility of links between Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and foreign terror groups.

Rohingya Muslims are also a "security threat" for Bangladesh and there have been incidents in the past, and that is why the Bangladesh government has started registration of the Rohingya population, he said.

"We have ordered the law enforcement agencies and the local administration to ensure that the Rohingya population do not move out of their designated area," Alam, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, said here.

He said Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has already condemned the attack on Myanmar security forces at Rakhine.

"We condemn the attacks (on Myanmar security forces) and we will continue to do so in future," he said.

Alam noted that Hasina will raise the Rohingya crisis with world leaders at the UN general assembly meet this week.

Asked about the security aspect of the Rohingya imbroglio, the Bangladesh minister said, "We are not aware of any linkages because it is taking place in a foreign land. But these organisations like (ARSA), if not linked, may be inspired by other terrorist forces. And we do not reject the idea of their being linked to foreign terrorists organisations."



Quizzed about the possibility of talks between Myanmar and Bangladesh on the matter, he said, "We had made a few proposals, but we did not receive any favorable responses. There is a possibility of ministry-level talks at the sidelines of the UN meet."



Alam said Bangladesh has already issued a "note verbale" to the Myanmar envoy in Dhaka about the alleged use of land mines at the Myanmar-Bangladesh border to stop the Rohingyas from fleeing into Bangladesh.

"The people who were trying to flee the Rakhine state...Some of them actually took videos and photos and we are hosting at least three injured individuals who lost their legs and other body parts in mine blasts. We have two bodies of those who died in the mine blasts.

"Bangladesh is definitely part of the anti-mine campaign and a signatory to it. We have raised the issue with Mynamar authorities," he stated.

Alam said Bangladesh was at present hosting more than eight lakh Rohingyas and their influx will not have an impact on the country's economy as of now.

"As our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that if the country can take care of its own population, it can also take care of eight to ten lakh (Rohingyas).

"She (Hasina) said it on a humanitarian ground. But we do not want to see this (influx) continue. We want a solution to the problem," he said.

Bangladesh is pursuing a diplomatic route to resolve this crisis and the solution lies with the Kofi Annan Commission report, he said.

On India's role in the crisis, Alam said, "We had a discussion (with India) at the diplomatic level. Our high commissioner had met the MEA foreign secretary of India. We had asked for their support so that India and Bangladesh are on the same page and we received reassurances".

The Indian government had already sent aid to cater to the Rohingya crisis, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Terming the Rohingya refugees as "illegal" immigrants, the government today told the Supreme Court that some of them were part of a "sinister" design of Pakistan's ISI and terror groups such as the ISIS, whose presence in the country will pose a "serious" national security threat.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) made its stand clear in a much-awaited affidavit in the apex court, in which it also said the fundamental right to settle in any part of the country was available only to citizens and not the Rohingyas.

It categorically stated that the apex court should not invoke its jurisdiction, as the issue of Rohingyas "fell under the exclusive domain of policy decision of the executive".

The affidavit was filed hours after a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that the government would file its reply in the course of the day on the PIL by two Rohingyas, challenging their deportation.

The affidavit was submitted as a response to a plea, filed by Rohingya immigrants Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, claiming they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

In the matter which will be heard next on October 3, the MHA said the "continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats."



Referring to the inputs of security agencies, the affidavit said the "Rohingyas figured in the suspected sinister designs of ISI/ISIS and other extremists groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India".

Moreover, since there was a "serious national security threat/concern", the government should be allowed to exercise its essential executive function by way of a policy decision to deport the Rohingyas in the larger interest of the nation, the affidavit said.

"I state and submit that some of the Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal/national security of India," the MHA official who signed the affidavit said, noting that their "illegal influx" in significant numbers, had started since 2012-13.

"The Central Government has contemporaneous security agencies inputs and other authentic material indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries.

"Over and above the said serious security concern already in existence, more disturbing part is that there is an organised influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar through agents and touts facilitating illegal immigrants Rohingyas into India ...This situation is seriously harming the national security of the country," it said.

The affidavit said some Rohingyas were involved in "illegal and anti national activities" like mobilisation of funds through hawala channels, procuring fake Indian ID cards besides indulging in human trafficking.

"A fragile Northeastern corridor may become further destabilised in case of stridency of Rohingya militancy, which the Central Government has found to be growing, if permitted to continue," it said.

There was also a serious potential and possibility of eruption of violence against the Buddhists who are Indian citizens by radicalised Rohingyas, the MHA document said.

The Centre then dealt with the fundamental right of citizens to reside, settle and move freely inside the country and said the apex court should not entertain the plea for extending these rights to the illegal Rohingyas.

"No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general and the rights...," the affidavit said.

The MHA also said that the citizens' rights like right to life and employment get adversely affected due to the burden on resources posed by the Rohingyas, whose numbers have now swelled to over 40,000.

The factual situation, the potential threat to internal and national security, diversion of national resources differ from case to case and the government takes decision in discharge of its executive functions based upon empirical data and objective facts by way of policy, the affidavit said.

It dealt with the provisions of 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees and said these were not applicable as India was not a signatory to either of them.

Seeking dismissal of the PIL, the government said such an indulgence would "encourage illegal influx of illegal migrants into our country and thereby deprive the citizens of India of their fundamental and basic human rights."



"So far as India is concerned, national security considerations rank the highest on the country's list of priorities, given its geopolitical influence in the region and its vulnerability to cross border infiltrations due to the porous nature of its borders, which our country shares with many countries," it said.

The MHA also said the inputs of security agencies and other sensitive details may be filed later by it in a sealed cover to substantiate its assertions made in the affidavit.

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat today reached out to tribal leaders in Rajasthan, assuring them all help to address the grievances of their communities, and stressed on providing "education which promotes self-respect".

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief interacted with a dozen leaders of various nomadic tribes who raised issues such as difficulties faced by the community members in getting identity cards, ration cards and aadhaar cards.

Bhagwat assured them that Sangh volunteers will now more actively work with them to ensure that they do not face these problems.

On the need to promote education among tribal communities, he said, "We need to ensure education which promotes a feeling of self-respect for overall progress of the country."



Bhagwat said that the Sangh through various Hindu organisations is moving ahead by taking all sections of the society along for the overall progress of the nation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
South Africa's tax service said today it may sue auditor KPMG after it retracted a report it wrote that was used by the president to fire the former finance minister.

South African Revenue Service (SARS) commissioner Tom Moyane told a press conference that KPMG's decision to annul the report that was requested by his department was "abhorrent, unprofessional and unethical conduct".

KPMG South Africa last week cleared out its senior management, offered to repay the report's $1.7 million (1.4 million euros) cost as well as retracting the dossier which probed an intelligence unit within the tax service.

The final document appeared to accuse the former SARS chief who went on to be the country's finance minister, Pravin Gordhan, of having knowledge of the allegedly rogue team.

KPMG said in a statement on Friday that the evidence it had received did not support those findings and apologised for its work.

The now withdrawn report was used by President Jacob Zuma as grounds to sack Gordhan at the end of March, triggering a collapse in the rand currency and two separate credit rating downgrades.

"SARS sees KPMG's behaviour as nothing else than a dismal attempt to portray SARS and its leadership as incompetent, inefficient, and involved in a witch-hunt activity," said Moyane, who insisted that only SARS could nullify the report's findings.

He added that KPMG's "abhorrent, unprofessional and unethical conduct" had left him with no option but to consider "instituting legal proceedings against KPMG for reputational damage".

SARS may also seek to have KPMG banned from all work for the South African state as a result of the spat, said Moyane, who also threatened to report the auditor to local and international regulators.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A group of people, including politicians and human rights activists, today formed 'Save The Rohingyas of Myanmar', which will act as a "pressure group" and urge the government to provide refuge and aid to the members of this Muslim community on humanitarian grounds.

Prakash Ambedkar, a former MP and grandson of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, while announcing the formation of the committee said, "We are appalled, saddened and shocked to see that lakhs of Rohingyas from Myanmar are on the verge of dying and the Indian government is not providing refuge to them. Through this group, we would pressurise the government to do something for them on humanitarian grounds."



Speaking to reporters later, the president of Bharip Bahujan Mahasangh (BBM), who will lead the committee said, "Unfortunately, this BJP-led government sees every issue through the prism of Hinduism."



The Centre submitted before the Supreme Court today that the continued stay of Rohingya Muslims has serious security ramifications. Terming the Rohingya refugees as "illegal" immigrants, the government today told the apex court that some of them were part of a "sinister" design of Pakistan's ISI and terror groups such as the ISIS, whose presence in the country will pose a "serious" national security threat.

To a question on the government's stand in the SC, Ambedkar said, "The police records do not support that they are in any way part of international terrorist organisations.. and if the government agencies have any inputs about it, then they should identify such people and offer help to those, who are not so (linked to terror groups)."



Ambedkar also suggested that Rohingyas can be granted refuge for the time being or even the next couple of years.

Apart from Ambedkar, city-based human rights activist Jatin Desai, MLC Kapil Patil, Feroz Mithiborwala and Noorjahan Niyaz, will also be members of the committee.

Kapil Patil said, "It has always been our tradition to offer all possible help to those in need. The BJP-led government is washing its hands of them."



Jatin Desai suggested that it is time that the government comes up with a refugee policy to end such problems forever.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
SBI Card today said its cardholder base has grown to 50 lakh as 10 lakh plus customers were added over the last year.

SBI Cards and Payment Services Private Ltd (SBI Card), in a release, said the company has also seen a "significant increase" in card spend, which has grown to Rs 5,500 crore plus from an average of Rs 3,500 crore a month, over last one year.

"We have risen from fourth position in the industry to become the second-largest player, both in terms of customer base and card spends. We have consistently maintained year on year growth of over 40 per cent on card spends, outpacing the industry growth by a substantial margin," said Vijay Jasuja, CEO, SBI Card.

The company, he said, expects to sustain the momentum with 30 per cent plus growth over the coming year.

With the launch of products such as Chennai Metro SBI Card, Tata Star Card and Central SBI Select Cards, the company has expanded its co-brand portfolio over the last year.

"The company has also expanded its cashback programmes to become the largest in the industry, across the widest spread of partners in different regions," the release stated.

SBI Card was launched in October 1998 by State Bank of India and GE Capital.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today asked the Allahabad High Court to expeditiously decide the plea of a man seeking a CBI probe into the death of his 9-year-old son allegedly under mysterious circumstances in a private school in Ghaziabad.

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said it would not deal with the plea and asked the father to approach the High Court which would decide it by October 15.

Senior advocate P P Malhotra, appearing for the father, said crucial evidence was not being considered during the investigation.

The plea was filed during a recent uproar over the death of a 7-year-old boy in the toilet of Ryan International School in Gurgaon, who was found with his throat slit on September 8.

The matter related to the death of class IV student Arman Sehgal at G D Goenka Public School at Indirapuram in Ghaziabad district on August 1.

Gulshan Sehgal, father of the victim, has claimed in his plea that a probe by CBI or a special investigation team was required for a "thorough and fair investigation" as the school management has "already destroyed" evidence in the case.

The plea said some members of the school management, including the chairman, director and principal, have moved the Allahabad High Court seeking quashing of the FIR and the court had granted them interim protection from arrest and directed that no coercive action should be taken against them.

It has also sought a stay against the interim orders of the high court issued on August 11 and September 6.

"The high court failed to appreciate the fact that the police officials reached the scene of crime almost four hours late and by that time the school authorities had destroyed and tampered with crucial evidence," the petition, filed through advocate Gurmeet Singh, said.

It also alleged that the Uttar Pradesh Police had not probed the case properly, due to which the school authorities had tampered with the scene of crime and removed all evidence.

"The high court failed to appreciate the fact that the expert opinion suggests that the cause of death cannot be from a fall on the corridor and to the contrary, the expert opinion suggests that the injuries caused should be from a fall of atleast 20 feet height," the plea said.

It also alleged that the CCTV footage of the school was not kept according to the rules and certain videos were deleted from the record.

The petitioner said even after 45 days of the incident, he does not know the reason and circumstances under which his son died.

He said on August 1, they had received a call from the school that his son had fallen in the corridor and was being taken to a hospital. But when he reached the hospital, they were told that the boy was declared 'brought dead'.

"The respondents deliberately and with criminal intent of mind, wiped away and caused to disappear all evidence pertaining to the occurrence. In this connection, it is submitted that the CCTV cameras were removed and so was the recording of the cameras," the plea alleged.

"The post mortem report of the deceased clearly indicates fracture of the base of skull and fracture of the nasal bone," it said, adding that these injuries cannot be possibly caused by a fall in the corridor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today paved the way for the accused in the murder case of a student at the Ryan International School in Gurgaon to be defended by their advocates, directing the lawyers' body not to obstruct the proceedings before the trial court in any manner.

The top court, while hearing a plea by an official of the Ryan Group who has been arrested in the case, observed that the resolution passed by the Gurgaon District Bar Association asking advocates not to represent accused in the case, was "absolutely erroneous".

"Tradition of Bar is that they are under an obligation not to obstruct any lawyer from appearing for anyone whosoever he or she is. This resolution is absolutely erroneous in law," a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said.

However, the lawyer appearing for the lawyers' body told the bench that the resolution has been withdrawan and lawyers were free to appear on behalf of the accused.

"We must say without any hesitation that any accused, whatever the offence may be, has a right to be represented by an advocate. The tradition of bar does not authorise any bar association to pass a resolution like this.

"However, the solace is that realising the fault, the bar association has withdrawn it (resolution)," the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, said.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Sandeep Kapur, appearing for northern zone head of Ryan Group, Francis Thomas, told the bench that after the bar association's resolution, no lawyer was ready to appear for the accused.

"This is what we are facing. No lawyer is appearing for the accused," Rohatgi argued, adding, "I (Thomas) have faced such a hostile atmosphere there".

The bench also made it clear that the office-bearers and members of the lawyers' body could be held responsible for causing any obstruction and disturbance in the entry and exit of the accused persons, their lawyers and family members.

When counsel for the bar body said the resolution has been withdrawan, Rohatgi asked why this matter cannot be transferred from the Sohna district court to a competent court in Delhi.

The case is presently pending before a court competent to deal with the matters under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act at Sohna.

In its order, the apex court noted that since the lawyers' body has withdrawan the resolution, the accused could get himself represented by a lawyer before the court.

While noting the assurance given by the counsel appearing for the lawyers' body, the bench said, "none of the members of the bar and other persons shall create any kind of impediment to any counsel appearing for the petitioner (accused)".

Meanwhile, advocate Sandeep Kapur said Ryan International School's CEO Ryan Pinto and his parents - Augustine Pinto and Grace Pinto - have moved the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking anticipatory bail in the matter and their plea would come up for hearing tomorrow.

Seven-year-old Pradyuman, a class 2 student, was found with his throat slit on the morning of September 8 in the toilet of Ryan International School in Gurgaon.

The police has alleged that 42-year-old bus conductor Ashok Kumar killed him with a knife after the boy resisted an attempt to sodomise him.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A British scientist has received a 1.4 million pound fund to carry out pioneering research that could discover how cancer steals the keys from the body's locksmiths, disrupting healthy cell growth and function.

Dr Mathew Coleman, of the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham, will receive 1.4 million pound over six years from Cancer Research UK to find out more about three specific proteins that are thought to have a role in cancer.

The study by Coleman's group, which focuses on gastrointestinal cancer but the findings would likely be applicable to a variety of other tumour types, will be conducted on both human tissue and cells donated by cancer patients.

The proteins in our body come in all shapes and sizes and play a range of roles, including controlling energy production, cell growth and cell function, Coleman said.

But if these proteins become faulty, it can affect how they work, causing them and cells to go out of control.

"We are interested in three particular proteins, which are all enzymes that act as locksmiths for other proteins. Usually, these enzymes, called oxygenases, work by attaching an oxygen molecule to specific parts of other proteins, which generally turns them on," he said.

This is like a locksmith putting a key in a lock once the door is opened, it unlocks processes in a cell that ensure it develops normally and that everything is properly controlled, he added.

The scientist said that these enzyme locksmiths become faulty in cancer, which means they are unable to attach oxygen molecules to other proteins properly. This means the door remains shut, and certain processes are locked out.

"We think that this can lead to abnormal cell growth and function, which can lead to cancer. It's as if cancer has stolen the keys from these locksmiths.

"What is amazing is that such a small thing not being able to place a key in a lock has the potential to have a domino effect that disrupts cell growth and function, causing cells to go awry and turn cancerous," the scientist said.

Coleman's group will study both human tissue and cells donated by cancer patients who have generously given permission for their tumour samples to be used in research.

The hope is that by understanding how these oxygenases become faulty, and what goes wrong in cancer cells because they are not working properly, Coleman and his team may be able to find out how to regain control of wayward processes, leading to new targeted treatments for cancer patients.

Every week, around 600 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK's West Midlands region.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Regulator Sebi today barred Midas Touch Assets and Securities Ltd and five individuals from the securities market and directed them to refund money collected illegally from the public.

Among the five individuals, while three -- Soubhagya Kumar Samal, Debasis Prasad Mishra and Swetanshu Sekhar Samal -- are the firm's present directors and the rest -- Nirupama Samal/Thatoi and Swarna Lata Samal -- are former directors.

Besides, they have also been restrained from accessing the securities market for a period of four years from the date of completion of refunds along with interest to investors.

A probe by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) had found that the firm had raised funds to the tune of Rs 15.52 crore till March 30, 2011, through the issuance of over 1.55 crore cumulative redeemable preference shares to more than 3,000 investors.

The company had issued shares to over 50 persons which under the rules made it a public issue of securities and hence required a compulsory listing on a recognised stock exchange. The firm was also required to file a prospectus, among others, which it had failed to do.

In an interim order passed in December 2014, Sebi had prohibited the firm and the five individuals from dealing in the capital markets and restrained them from mobilising public funds after prima facie finding that the fund mobilising activity by the firm was in violation of various rules.

According to the fresh ruling, they have also been prohibited from buying, selling or otherwise dealing in securities in any manner whatsoever, directly or indirectly.

Sebi also restrained them from associating themselves with any listed public company or any public company which intends to raise money from the public for a period of four years from the date of completion of the refund.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The recent deaths of manual scavengers in the national capital has come under the scanner of the Delhi High Court which today sought a time-bound implementation of the procedure for cleaning sewers and septic tanks.

A bench of justices S Ravindra Bhat and Sunil Gaur was informed by the Delhi government that the Lieutenant Governor has recently set up a committee to examine various measures for the implementation of 'The Prohibition of Employment of Manual Scavenger and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013' and rules.

The court asked the three municipal corporations, Delhi Jal Board, Public Works Department, Delhi Cantonment Board, New Delhi Municipal Council and the divisional railway manager of Northern Railway to implement the procedure and to give a time frame within which it would be accomplished.

"You need to constitute rules and methodology," the bench said and listed the matter for September 27.

The government's counsel said the committee will have the mandate to prepare an action plan for cleaning of drains, sewer lines and septic tanks through mechanical means.

A report filed by the Delhi government said the committee will chalk out a road map to achieve 100 per cent mechanisation along with estimated time frame.

Its mandate would be to "prepare Standard Operating Practices (SOPs) for cleaning of sewer lines, sepctic tanks and covered drains having sewer like character. The SOPs prepared will take into account the various provisions of the Act and rules dealing with the safety, health and life insurance of the workers".

The report said that the SoPs prepared by the committee shall be implemented by all the agencies diligently and if the work is executed through contract, the SOPs shall also be applicable to all the contractors.

The committee, which was formed on September 5, has to submit its report to the LG within a period of two weeks, it said.

The court also asked amicus curiae Sanjay Poddar and petitioner advocate Ashok Agarwal to inform it about the drawbacks of the model rules framed by the central government on the issue.

Taking a strong view of the recent deaths of manual scavengers, the high court had earlier directed the heads of all civic bodies in Delhi to explain how such activity was going on despite being prohibited under the law.

The court was informed by the amicus curiae in August that in little over a month, 10 people have died in four incidents while cleaning sewers in the national capital without any protective gear or safety measures in place.

All of them had suffocated to death due to the toxic fumes in the sewer lines.

The court was hearing of a PIL filed in 2007 for the rehabilitation of manual scavengers.

It had earlier termed as "disgraceful" the existence of manual scavenging in the city despite a law prohibiting such a practice and had said, "We are a country of poor people but not for the poor people."



It is "ridiculous and shocking", the court had observed when informed by the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) that one of the manual scavengers was a "graduate".

The DSLSA, in an interim report, had said that there were manual scavengers in the national capital even after the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 came into force.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BJP president Amit Shah will be in Uttarakhand for two days starting tomorrow as part of his 110-day nation-wide tour to strengthen and take stock of organisational work.

Shah, who is visiting the state for the first time after piloting it to a big victory in the state assembly elections in March, will land at the Jollygrant Airport at around 9.30 am and will be greeted by supporters along the way, BJP's Pradesh media in-charge Devendra Bhasin said.

Archways and banners have been put up across the city at points likely to be crossed by the the party chief.

A party statement said Shah will preside over a meeting of MPs and MLAs from the state, party's office-bearers, core group members, morcha presidents and general secretaries tomorrow.

The party's district presidents, zila parishad presidents, chairmen of co-operative banks and former MPs and MLAs will join the exercise.

The statement said he will also hold a separate meeting with in-charges of different 'morchas' and cells in the afternoon and later address a meeting of intellectuals and eminent citizens.

He will also meet groups of leaders separately.

On Wednesday, he will inaugurate a library and e-library at the state party headquarters followed by a meeting of different departments and organisational projects. He will hold more meetings before leaving the state.

All the five Lok Sabha seats of the hilly state were won by the saffron party in 2014 and it scored a unprecedented victory in the Assembly polls this year by winning 57 out of the total 70 seats.

During his two day visit, the party chief is also likely to have a meal in a Dalit household, Bhasin said.

However, the timing for this and the household where Shah will have a meal have not been decided yet, he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Snapchat has blocked Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera from its app in Saudi Arabia at the request of Saudi authorities, the image sharing service said Monday, as tensions simmer between the Gulf states.

Saudi authorities have accused Al Jazeera of acting as a mouthpiece for extremist groups, a charge it denies.

Alongside the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia imposed a blockade on Qatar in June, in the worst diplomatic crisis to roil the Gulf in years.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," said a spokesman for parent company Snap Inc.

Al Jazeera condemned the blocking as an assault on freedom of expression.

"We find Snapchat's action to be alarming and worrying," the broadcaster's acting director general Mostefa Souag said in a statement.

"This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they don't agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms."



Snap Inc said Saudi authorities had asked it to block Al Jazeera's account in the kingdom before the weekend, arguing that the broadcaster's Discover channel violated local laws.

The broadcaster's website has been blocked in Saudi Arabia for months and authorities shut down its office in the Kingdom when the crisis broke out in June.

So far, Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel can still be viewed in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt.

The Saudi-led alliance has issued a list of 13 demands to Qatar, accusing it of backing extremism and fostering ties with Riyadh's Shiite rival Tehran.

Doha denies the charges, claiming the blockade is an attack on its sovereignty.

The crisis has entered its fourth month and is showing no sign of ending, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia, with its bulging youth population, is among the world's top per capita users of social media.

The internet represents a limited space for freedom of expression in the conservative kingdom.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least 15 people were killed today when two suicide bombers struck civilians receiving aid in northeast Nigeria, a rescue worker and a member of the civilian militia said.

"There were twin suicide explosions at 11:10 am in Mashalari village (near Konduga), which killed 15 and left 43 others injured," a rescue worker said in an account backed by Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived in New York on Monday to represent India at the annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session with a packed schedule of super diplomacy among an array of world leaders.

During her week-long stay, Swaraj, leading a high-powered Indian delegation, is expected to hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

Swaraj, was received at the airport by the Indian Ambassador to the US Navtej Sarna, and India's permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin.

Welcome Ma'am! EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in New York for 72nd UNGA. Received by Amb @NavtejSarna & PR @AkbaruddinIndia pic.twitter.com/x0j99nnBNf  India in USA (@IndianEmbassyUS) September 17, 2017

She would kick off her official engagement later today with a trilateral meeting with her American and Japanese counterparts Rex Tillerson, and Taro Kono respectively.

Aimed at lending momentum to cooperation between the three countries, the meeting also turns significant amid China flexing its muscles in the region.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted by the US and chaired by president Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries who have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.

India has said that the UN reforms need to be "broad-based and all-encompassing" and the changes should not be restricted to its Secretariat only.

In a preview of the Swaraj's engagements during her week-long stay in the US, Akbaruddin had said that issues of climate change, terrorism, people-centric migration, and peacekeeping are other key focus areas for India this year.

Swaraj will also participate in a special panel of selected countries by the UN Secretary General on climate action, he said earlier.

She will address the UNGA on September 23.

The minister is scheduled to have a series of meetings today including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

Akbaruddin in an interaction with Indian reporters ruled out a bilateral meeting between Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart.

However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings including that of SAARC and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Swaraj is scheduled to leave for India, a day after her address to the UN General Assembly.




Foreign Ministers of India, Japan and the US on Monday emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, as they held a trilateral meeting in the backdrop of Doklam crisis and assertive Chinese behaviour.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly here, the three top diplomats - External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono - also exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

"The Ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined," Kumar said in a statement.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. However, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

India and China last month ended a 73-day standoff in Doklam area of the Sikkim sector that was triggered by China's move to build a road in the border area.

Swaraj also deplored North Korea's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, Kumar said.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea early this month conducted its biggest nuclear test, which its state-run KCNA news agency described it as a hydrogen bomb.

The three ministers directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation, he said at the conclusion of the meeting.

Swaraj arrived in New York early today to attend the 72nd annual session of the UN General Assembly. She is scheduled to address the United Nations on September 23.

During her week-long stay here, she is likely to hold between 15-20 bilateral meetings in addition to several multilateral and trilateral meetings.

She is scheduled to have a series of other meetings today including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.
Foreign Ministers of India, Japan and the US today emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, as they held a trilateral meeting in the backdrop of Doklam crisis and assertive Chinese behaviour.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly here, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono also exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

"The Ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined," Kumar said in a statement.

State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert in a statement said, "The ministers discussed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region underpinned by a resilient, rules-based architecture that enables every nation to prosper."



"The ministers also affirmed the importance of the freedom of navigation and overflight and the free flow of lawful commerce in the region and around the globe, including in the South China Sea," Nauert said.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. However, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

India and China last month ended a 73-day standoff in Doklam area of the Sikkim sector that was triggered by China's move to build a road in the border area.

Swaraj also deplored North Korea's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, Kumar said.

Nauert said that the three leaders affirmed and applauded the international community's firm resolve to oppose North Korea's alleged unlawful acts, as reflected in UN Security Council Resolution 2375, and called for continuing international action to curtail its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea early this month conducted its biggest nuclear test, which its state-run KCNA agency described it as a hydrogen bomb.

The three ministers directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation, he said at the conclusion of the meeting.

Swaraj arrived in New York early today to attend the 72nd annual session of the UN General Assembly. She is scheduled to address the United Nations on September 23.

During her week-long stay here, she is likely to hold between 15-20 bilateral meetings in addition to several multilateral and trilateral meetings.

She is scheduled to have a series of other meetings today including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Outgoing Syria warcrimes investigator Carla Del Ponte said today she had quit her post out of frustration over "total impunity", in a fiery farewell speech.

Del Ponte, an accomplished war crimes prosecutor, announced last month that she was leaving the Commission of Inquiry (COI) for Syria, a UN-backed panel that has collected evidence of alleged atrocities committed in the country since the outbreak of civil war in 2011.

"I resign to put an end to my frustration," Del Ponte told the Human Rights Council, after the COI presented its latest report.

"Seven years of crimes in Syria and total impunity. That is not acceptable".

Del Ponte, a Swiss national, worked on the international tribunals that prosecuted war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda.

She said that when she joined the COI she did not anticipate that the international community would fail to set up a court capable of trying crimes committed in Syria.

The commission has repeatedly urged the United Nations Security Council to refer Syria to the International Criminal Court, an effort that has been blocked by the Damascus regime's ally Russia.

"Why is it not possible to have a tribunal?" Del Ponte asked, addressing some of her farewell remarks directly at Syria's UN ambassador Hussam Edin Aala.

The COI has accused all sides -- including the government and rebels -- of committing war crimes in Syria.

Its most recent report, submitted to the rights council today, charged Damascus with carrying out a chemical attack which killed dozens of people in Khan Sheikhun in April.

A new UN body -- called the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism -- has recently started work in Geneva with a mandate to prepare cases against specific individuals.

Del Ponte called that effort "a little step towards justice".

But the mechanism's chief, Catherine Marchi-Uhel of France, cautioned earlier this month that her office was not a court and had no power to bring international charges.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Technology giant Google today launched a new digital payments app 'Tez' -- meaning fast in Hindi -- for the Indian market that aims to make e- transactions simple and secure.

The app has been designed for the Indian market and is powered by the government's Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Available for both Android and iOS (Apple phone) users, it allows users to make payments straight from their bank accounts.

"This is a product that is made for India. There are areas where India will leapfrog the West and one such case is payments and commerce," Caesar Sengupta, Google V-P (Next Billion Users), told reporters here.

He added that Tez (7MB in size) will be available in seven Indian languages, including Bengali and Tamil, to enable users across the country to easily use the app.

There has been an increase in adoption of digital payments in the country, especially after the government's move to ban high-denomination currency. Mobile wallets like Paytm and payments through credit and debit cards saw a surge.

In the past few months, companies like Flipkart, Ola and Uber have embraced UPI to allow users to pay through the new medium on their respective apps.

"Our primary competitor is cash. The focus is on getting more people to use digital payments instead of cash. There is plenty of room for many players," Diana Layfield, Google V-P, Head of Finance and Commerce Products (Next Billion Users), said when asked how the company intended to compete with Alibaba-backed Paytm.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who launched the app, expressed hope that digital payment is going to pick up momentum as more advanced technology hits the market.

A lot of people went in for digitisation in terms of mode of payment more out of compulsion rather than finding it a more convenient method to transact, but that compulsion created a habit for many, he said, adding that it "is now bound to pick up again".

Rajan Anandan, V-P South East Asia and India for Google, highlighted that 300 million of the 400 million accessing Internet in India do so on their smartphones.

"Over 650 million are expected to use Internet by 2020 and Google's mission is to build an inclusive Internet," Anandan added.

Sengupta said there are no plans to monetise the app in coming months and the focus is on growing usage.

Google also plans to integrate wallets and cards on the Tez platform in coming months. It will also give scratch cards to users worth up to Rs 1,000 on transactions above Rs 50.

Besides, Google is working with businesses like PVR and redbus that will allow customers to pay using Tez. It is in discussion with other businesses on getting them on board as well.

In the next few months, players like Lava, Micromax, XOLO, Nokia and Panasonic will introduce devices with Tez pre-embedded on them.

Besides, Google has partnered with four banks -- Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and State Bank of India (SBI) -- as its key partners for the service. However, customers of over 50 banks that are present on the UPI platform will be able to use the service.

The app also has a 'Cash Mode' feature that allows one to pay without sharing bank details or phone number. Based on the audio QR code technology -- like Near Field Communication -- the users are connected through their phone's microphone and speaker and then they can complete the transaction.

Google's machine learning-based fraud detection engine and multiple levels of security ensure that all transactions on the platform are secure, Sengupta claimed.

Asked if Tez would be launched in other countries, Sengupta said the product is right now focussed on the Indian market.

"While there is nothing like UPI in other countries, there are markets that are similar to India like Indonesia and others. We will see the response that we get in India and these learnings can be used in other places," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Thailand's army came under fire Monday for its USD 10 million purchase of a faulty blimp that was finally dumped after eight hapless years, the latest scandal over military spending in the junta-run country.

The kingdom's defence budget has nearly tripled over the last decade, a period where the military has seized power twice.

Pricy purchases -- such as $1 billion set aside for Chinese submarines -- have frequently been met with criticism from a public feeling the pinch of a flagging economy.

The latest target of ire, the Aeros 40D "Sky Dragon", was purchased in 2009 for the purpose of surveilling an insurgency flaring in Thailand's far south.

But the 46.6-metre airship spent most of the past eight years grounded and plagued by a series of malfunctions, leaks and the costly helium refilling.

In 2012, it crash-landed into a rice field when the pilot lost control while on a patrol mission, according to local media.

After leaked of its decommissioning last week, activist Srisuwan Janya submitted a letter urging the Office of Auditor General (OAG) of Thailand to investigate why taxpayer money was wasted on the airship.

"We are asking the OAG to launch an investigation against a former army chief... The cabinet and other officials involved" in the controversial purchase, Janya told AFP.

Army chief Chalermchai Sittisart tried to temper the discontent by promising to make use of the airship's expensive cameras.

According to officials, the blimp's tarpaulin exterior had expired after eight years in the tropical climate.

But criticism of the purchase, and additional money spent on its ultimately ineffective maintenance, flared online where Thais voiced anger over other examples of seemingly wasteful military spending.

The most infamous is the military's multi-million-dollar purchase of bogus bomb detectors -- known as GT200 -- that led to the detention of scores of innocent people a decade ago.

Two British fraudsters were jailed in 2013 for making millions from selling the GT200 and similar devices to governments including Thailand, Mexico and Iraq.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
"The Handmaid's Tale" made a clean sweep in the drama series section at the 69th Primetime Emmy awards by taking home the trophies in the best drama series, actress, writing and directing categories.

The Hulu show based on the best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood, is set in Gilead, a totalitarian society in what used to be part of the United States. Gilead is ruled by a fundamentalist regime that treats women as property of the state, and is faced with environmental disasters and a plummeting birth rate.

In a desperate attempt to repopulate a devastated world, the few remaining fertile women are forced into sexual servitude.

Elisabeth Moss, who essays the role of Offred in the show won her first best actress in drama series Emmy award for her portrayal of a woman determined to survive the terrifying world she lives in, and find the daughter that was taken from her.

Moss dropped an f-bomb as she walked up to the stage to receive her award, and then called her mother a "f***ing bada**" at the end of her speech. "You are brave and strong and smart..."



She also thanked Hulu and MGM, in addition to Atwood, who wrote the book on which the series is based. "Margaret Atwood, oh my gosh, thank you for what you did in 1958 and thank you for what you continue to do for all of us."



Another major win for the show was Ann Dowd in the best supporting actress category. The actor, who won her first Emmy award, plays Aunt Lydia and appears only in Offred's flashbacks.

While in tears, Dowd thanked author Atwood during her acceptance speech, as well as her family and representatives. But she also took a moment to thank the streaming service that released "The Handmaid's Tale": "They're very lovely, Hulu," she said.

Rising-star director Reed Morano, who helmed the first three episodes of the show, became the first woman to win the Emmy for drama series directing in 22 years.

In her acceptance speech, Morano hailed Moss for her fearless performance in the adaptation of the dystopian novel.

"Lizzie is my ultimate inspiration," Morano said. "This is as much her as it is me."



The last female director to take the drama series directing Emmy was Mimi Leder in 1995 for the "ER" episode "Love's Labor Lost."



Bruce Miller of "The Handmaid's Tale" also won the award for writing for a drama series.

"This Is Us" star Sterling K Brown made history by becoming the first African-American to win the best actor in drama series at the Emmys in 19 years.

The last time a black actor won the lead actor in a drama series trophy, it was Andre Braugher for "Homicide", back in 1998.

Brown plays Randall, the black adopted son of the otherwise white Pearson family, who is on a mission to find his biological father and explore his racial identity.

"I just want to say Mr Braugher, whether at Stanford University or on this Emmy stage, it is my supreme honour to follow in your steps," Brown said, before pivoting to thanking his TV family. "Milo, Mandy, Justin, Chrissy - you are the best white TV family that a brother has ever had. Better than Mr. Drummond, better then them white folks at Webster."



The best supporting actor award in the drama series went to John Lithgow for "The Crown". Lithgow won the trophy for his performance as Winston Churchill in the Netflix drama. The veteran actor has now won a total of six Emmys.

"I feel so lucky to have won this in the company of my fellow nominees.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov here on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and discussed the current situation in Syria, an official has said.

The meeting between the two leaders took place at the Russian mission in New York ahead of the UN General Assembly, State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said.

"The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward, pursuant to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254," Nauert said in a statement.

Tillerson had termed the relations between the US and Russia at a "historic" post-Cold War low, amid a tit-for-tat cuts to each other's diplomatic missions.

The US recently ordered Russia to shut its the Consulate in San Francisco and offices in Washington and New York.

Russia responded by promising a "tough response" to the US order which had come after Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered that the US cut its diplomatic staff in Russia by 755 employees.

Putin's order itself was in retaliation against new sanctions imposed in July after the US Congress decided to punish Moscow for its reported interference in the 2016 American presidential election.

The US wants to work with Russia to help resolve the crisis in Syria, where both have military forces deployed, and the rivals are trying to work through their differences.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President on Monday warned "bureaucracy" is stopping the United Nations from realising its potential, a barbed message during his first appearance at an institution he once derided as a talking shop.

Attending a discussion on UN reform, Trump insisted he had always seen the "great potential" of the organisation from a perch "right across the street" at his New York home.

"The United Nations was founded on truly noble goals" he said, adding that "in recent years the United Nations has not reached its full potential, because of bureaucracy and mismanagement.
US President Donald Trump, a critic of the UN, will seek to gather global support for reforming the world body, ahead of his maiden address to the General Assembly.

India along with some key members of the UN has also been seeking reforms and expansion of the UN Security Council.

Ahead of his address, Trump would host and chair a high- level meeting of the world leaders on reforms in the UN. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj would be participating in the meeting.

During the meeting, Trump "will express support for Secretary General (Antonio) Guterres' reform efforts," said National Security Advisor Lt Gen H R McMaster.

"The United Nations, of course, holds tremendous potential to realise its founding ideals, but only if it's run more efficiently and effectively," he told reporters in Washington last week.

On Tuesday, Trump will address the General Assembly during which he will tackle multiple global issues such as North Korea's nuclear ambitions and the crisis in Syria.

The UN reforms will focus on ensuring that other countries take a more equitable burden to ensure international security, to demand greater accountability of UN officials, and to reduce the budget by eliminating duplication.

Trump had once described the UN as "a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time".

"The utter weakness and incompetency of the United Nations. The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where, as you know, it has its home," Trump had said during his presidential campaign last year.

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin on Saturday said India wants these reforms to be broad-based and all encompassing.

The US Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, on Sunday said that Trump wants the world body to be efficient and effective.

"We said that we needed to get value for our dollar. And what we're finding is the international community is right there with us in support of reform. So, it is a new day at the UN," she told the CNN in an interview on Sunday.

The 72nd session of the UN General Assembly would be discussing 172 items on its agenda.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
President Donald Trump says he wants to stage an armed forces parade in Washington on July 4 to showcase US military strength.

Trump announced his idea yesterday at the start of a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump reminisced about how much he enjoyed watching France's military parade in Paris on Bastille Day in July. He said the two-hour parade was a "tremendous thing for France and for the spirit of France" and suggested that he wants the same for Americans.

Trump says he's discussed the idea with his chief of staff, John Kelly, who is a retired Marine general.

Trump and Macron met in New York as world leaders began gathering for the annual UN General Assembly session. They were to discuss terrorism, security and other international concerns.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are committed to "maximising pressure" on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of UN Security Council resolutions, the White House said today.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea early this month conducted its biggest nuclear test, which its state-run KCNA agency described it as a hydrogen bomb.

Trump today spoke with Xi to discuss North Korea's continued defiance of the international community and its efforts to destabilize the Northeast Asia.

"The two leaders committed to maximizing pressure on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions," the White House said.

Trump is in New York to attend the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly.

The UN Security Council last week unanimously passed a US-drafted resolution that imposes strongest sanctions ever on North Korea, including restricting its oil imports and banning textile exports, to curb the reclusive nation's nuclear programme.

US Treasury Secretary Rex Tillerson told reporters that they will have plenty of opportunity to talk about that with many, many of international leaders.

"I think the UN Security Council resolutions really speak for themselves, a unanimous view of what's needed for North Korea to correct the situation," Tillerson said in response to a question during a trilateral with his Indian and Japanese counterparts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping spoke by telephone, the White House said today, amid an escalating crisis over North Korea's ballistic and nuclear weapons programmes.

Trump is currently in New York for the United Nations General Assembly but Xi -- who has a major Communist Party congress that will cement his leadership for the next five years -- is not attending the event.

Officials had said prior to the call that North Korea was likely to be the major topic of discussion. Trump is expected to make his first presidential visit to China later this year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Turkey launched a military drill with tanks close to the Iraqi border today, the army said, a week before Iraq's Kurdish region is set to hold an independence referendum.

Despite opposition from Turkey, Iran and the United States, the Kurdistan Regional Government's leaders have said they will hold the non-binding independence vote on September 25.

Ankara has previously warned against the poll, saying it could risk "civil war" and will "have a cost" if it goes ahead.

Despite forging strong ties with the KRG in northern Iraq in recent years, Turkey fears the vote could stoke separatist aspirations among its own sizable Kurdish minority.

Ankara's national security council will meet on September 22 to discuss the country's official position on the referendum, but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday said it was a "mistake".

He was speaking before leaving for the United Nations General Assembly, where he is expected to meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi -- whose Baghdad government is also fiercely against the KRG's move.

Turkish presidency sources said Abadi and Erdogan agreed during a phone call on Monday that the KRG's "insistence would increase tensions in the region".

And they emphasised the need to protect Iraq's territorial integrity, the sources said.

Jan Kubis, the top UN envoy in Iraq, last week offered international backing for immediate negotiations between the country's federal government and the autonomous region in a bid to get Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani to drop the plans.

The Turkish military exercise began in the Silopi-Habur region in the country's south, close to northern Iraq, the armed forces said.

"Simultaneously with this exercise, counter-terrorism operations in the border region continue," a statement added.

Witnesses in the region said they saw around 100 military vehicles deployed, including tanks, in the early hours today, an AFP correspondent said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pressure grew on Myanmar today as a rights group urged world leaders to impose sanctions on its military, which is accused of driving out more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims in an orchestrated "ethnic cleansing" campaign.

The call from Human Rights Watch came as the UN General Assembly prepared to convene in New York, with the crisis in Myanmar one of the most pressing topics.

It also came on the eve of a highly-anticipated national address by Myanmar's civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi -- her first on the Rakhine crisis.

The exodus of Rohingya refugees from mainly Buddhist Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh has sparked a humanitarian emergency. Aid groups are struggling to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children.

Myanmar has suggested it will not take back all who had fled across the border, accusing those refugees of having links to the Rohingya militants whose raids on police posts in August triggered the army backlash.

Any clear moves to block the refugees' return will likely anger Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina, who will press the General Assembly to raise global pressure Myanmar to take back all the Rohingya massing in shanty towns and camps near the border.

Human Rights Watch also called for the "safe and voluntary return" of the displaced as it urge governments around the globe to punish Myanmar's army with sanctions for the "ongoing atrocities" against the Rohingya.

"The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims," the group said in a statement.

Myanmar's military was hit with Western sanctions during its 50-year rule of the country. But most have been lifted in recent years as the generals have allowed a partial transition to democracy.

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," said John Sifton, HRW's Asia advocacy director.

Nobel peace laureate Suu Kyi has shocked the international community with her near-silence on the plight of the Rohingya and her failure to condemn the actions of the army, with whom she has a delicate power-sharing arrangement.

Speaking to the BBC over the weekend, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called Suu Kyi's upcoming address a "last chance" to stop the unfolding humanitarian calamity.

But analysts say it will be difficult for her to tamp both global outrage and combustible religious tensions at home, where there is broad support among the mainly Buddhist populace for the army's crackdown.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today took oath as member of the state Legislative Council, meeting the mandatory six-month deadline to get elected to either house of the state after assuming office.

Two deputy chief ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Dinesh Sharma were also administered oath by Chairman of the Legislative Council Ramesh Yadav at a function at the Tilak Hall of the imposing Legislative Building here.

Two other ministers Swantradev Singh and Mohsin Raza also took oath.

Raza, a minister of state, is the lone Muslim face of the 48-member council of ministers headed by the 45-year-old saffron-robed chief minister.

All of them were recently declared elected unopposed to the state Legislative Council in by-elections to five seats that fell vacant when the sitting members resigned recently.

Adityanath has now becomes the third successive chief minister after Akhilesh Yadav (SP) and Mayawati (BSP), to opt for the Upper House.

With all the five seats going to the BJP, the party's tally has risen to 13 in the 100-member Upper House, where the Opposition still enjoys majority.

The Samajwadi Party (SP) has 61 members in the Legislative Council, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) nine, the Congress two and the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) one. While 12 seats are held by 'others', two are vacant.

The chief minister and his ministerial colleagues had to get themselves elected to either House of the state within six months of assuming office on March 19.

The seats fell vacant when Bukkal Nawab, Yashwant, Sarojini Agarwal and Ashok Bajpai - all members of the Samajwadi Party - and BSP MLC Thakur Jaiveer Singh resigned and joined BJP subsequently.

Other UP chief ministers who had opted for the Legislative Council route are Narain Dutt Tiwari and late Ram Prakash Gupta (BJP).

Former chief minister Vishwanath Pratap Singh had become a member of UP Legislative Council in November 1980 after assuming the chief minister's office in June 1980.

He later contested a by-election from Tindwari Assembly constituency, and became a member of UP Legislative Assembly in 1981.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Stressing the need for creating more opportunities for women, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya today said that campaigns like Standup Women and Standup India will act as a force multiplier in India's economic development.

The deputy chief minister also expressed the need for a multi-dimensional approach for development and promotion of women.

"The objective behind Standup Women campaign is to promote entrepreneurship among women, scheduled castes and tribes by enabling them secure easier loans and this could be an engine of job creation for the youth," he said here.

Maurya was inaugurating a National Conference and Awards ceremony on Stand-up India - Standup Women "Driving India's Economic Development", organised by ASSOCHAM.

He said that under the scheme, which could transform lives of Dalit and Tribal communities, SC/ST and women entrepreneurs would be provided loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs one crore for setting up new enterprises.

"This will help in creating 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs throughout the country as every bank branch will be required to provide two such loans - to a Dalit or SC/ST person and a woman," a press release issued by the industry chamber said quoting him.

Maurya said the scheme aimed to empower every Indian. "It seeks to convert job-seekers into job-creators," he said.

Maurya said that under the Standup India scheme launched in 2016-17 to support entrepreneurship among the Dalits, tribals and women, over 16,000 new enterprises have come up in areas such as food processing, garments and diagnostic centres.

ASSOCHAM Secretary General D S Rawat said the Standup scheme was meant for the uplift of downtrodden sections of the society, but the scheme did not get the desired publicity.

Rawat suggested that if the government worked in tandem with SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank Of India) and ASSOCHAM, the Standup scheme could deliver even better results.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The US is determined to withdraw from the Paris climate pact unless it gets a favourable term, President Donald Trump's top economic adviser said at the United Nations today.

Gary Cohn, the Director of National Economic Council, said this after a breakfast meeting with energy ministers from about a dozen countries on the sidelines of the annual General Assembly session of the United Nations.

"We are withdrawing from the Paris Agreement unless we can reengage on terms more favourable to the United States. This position was made very clear during the breakfast," the White House said in a statement after the meeting.

"Today's Energy Minister Breakfast was a useful conversation with many of our international allies and partners. We discussed the president's energy agenda, and the role that US energy resources and technologies can play in promoting energy security, driving economic growth, and reducing emissions at home and globally," a senior White House official said.

The conversation also focused on ways that the countries can work together to provide affordable, reliable energy to help reduce global poverty, the official said.

"Participants discussed the important role that technology and innovation will continue to play as our countries strive to achieve these important goals," he said.

"As a global leader in developing and deploying advanced energy technologies, including highly efficient fossil fuels, the United States looks forward to continuing this conversation as we work together to promote a balanced approach to reducing emissions that does not sacrifice energy security or economic growth," said the White House official.

President Trump in June announced his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change and renegotiate the deal that was agreed upon by over 190 countries during the previous Obama administration.

Arguing that countries like China and India are benefiting the most from the Paris Agreement, Trump had said that the agreement on climate change was unfair to the US, as it badly hit its businesses and jobs.

The Paris agreement's central aim is to strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change by keeping the global temperature rise in this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The landmark agreement, which entered into force last November, calls on countries to combat climate change and to accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed for a sustainable low carbon future, and to adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Biotechnology major Biocon today said the US health regulator has completed inspection of its manufacturing plant in Vishakhapatnam without any observations.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) inspected company's active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) manufacturing facility in Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh from September 11 to 15, 2017, Biocon spokesperson said in a statement.

The audit was completed without any observations. "No form 483 was issued", it added.

A Form 483 is issued by the USFDA to notify a company's management of objectionable conditions at its manufacturing facilities. It is issued to the management of a firm at the conclusion of an inspection.

Shares of Biocon today closed at Rs 357.05 per scrip on BSE, up 2.94 per cent from its previous close.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today said it was "very strange" that internet majors were objecting to making public certain recommendations in a report of a panel set up to explore technical solutions to block videos of sexual offences on social sites.

The apex court said there was "nothing secret" about the recommendations as representatives of the internet majors such as Google, Yahoo, Facebook and instant messaging application WhatsApp had attended the meeting and discussed the issue.

"This is very strange. One of the discussions is about the Ministry of Home Affairs making an expert group which had given recommendations on women and child safety. You are objecting to it. It is amazing," a bench comprising Justices Madan B Lokur and U U Lalit said.

"During the discussions, 17 people were there. So there is nothing secret about it," the bench observed.

The bench was informed by the chairperson of the apex- court appointed committee that the internet firms had raised objections on certain portions of the report from being made public.

The bench then sought to know from the counsel appearing for these firms the reasons behind their objections.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the bench that the proceedings should be held 'in-camera' and they would satisfy the court about the query raised by it.

Sibal and senior advocates A M Singhvi and Siddharth Luthra, appearing for other companies, said they should be given copy of the report.

The bench said the proceedings in the case would be held in-camera and asked the advocate-on-record of the parties to give the list of persons who would attend the hearings.

The court also asked these companies to file affidavits indicating the reasons for objections.

The companies also sought time to file affidavit giving details of complaints they had received from across the country about the objectionable contents concerning child pornography, rape and gang rape from 2016 till August 31 this year and the action taken on them.

The bench asked them to file the affidavit in two weeks and posted the matter for hearing on October 23.

The court was hearing a letter sent to then Chief Justice of India H L Dattu by Hyderabad-based NGO Prajwala, along with two rape videos in a pen-drive.

The top court had on its own taken cognisance of the letter about posting of these videos on WhatsApp and asked CBI to launch a probe to apprehend the culprits.

The committee chairperson had earlier told the court that there were several aspects on which no consensus was arrived at during the deliberations.

The apex court had observed that the panel would hold discussions and meetings to arrive at a consensus on the possibility of ensuring that such objectionable videos pertaining to child pornography, gang rape and rape are not made available on the internet.

Earlier, cyber security officials, who function under the CBI, had told the bench that internet was a "wild highway" and blocking objectionable content at the source was a technical challenge for which clear guidelines needed to be issued to stop circulation of such material.

The Centre had informed the court that it would set up a specialised agency to block and curb the sharing of sexual offence videos on social networking platforms.

The NGO's letter had also mooted the idea of maintaining a national sex offenders' register which should contain details of persons convicted for offences like eve-teasing, stalking, molestation and other sexual assaults.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The World Health Organisation today urged Yemen to approve cholera vaccinations it has offered to help contain an epidemic that could affect nearly a million people by year's end.

Yemen, where a multinational conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis, had asked the UN health agency earlier this year for doses of the vaccine, said Dominique Legros, the agency's cholera specialist.

The WHO sent a million doses in June only to see the Yemeni government change its mind, leading the United Nations to reassign the vaccines to Somalia and Sudan, Legros told reporters in Geneva.

Asked about Yemen's reversal, Legros said only that discussions with countries about vaccinations could be "complicated", noting the lack of familiarity with them in affected communities, especially in the case of newer vaccines like the one for cholera.

"We are still in negotiation with the government in Yemen to make sure we can also use (vaccines) to help control" the outbreak, he said.

Last week, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said the rampant cholera crisis in Yemen had reached "colossal proportions", warning that it could affect 850,000 people by the end of the year.

More than 2,000 people have perished from the disease, according to the WHO.

The epidemic has put further strain on a ravaged health system in Yemen, where less than half of healthcare facilities are functioning as the conflict drags on.

Since March 2015, a Saudi-led coalition has been waging a war on behalf of the internationally recognised government against Iran-backed Huthi rebels.

More than 8,000 people have been killed, including at least 1,500 children, and millions displaced in the conflict which has pushed the impoverished country to the brink of famine.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bangladesh is to buy rice from Myanmar, putting aside worsening relations over the Rohingya refugee crisis as the government races to overcome a shortage of the country's staple food.

Normally the world's fourth-biggest rice producer, Bangladesh has become a major importer this year after floods hit its crops, sending domestic rice prices to record highs.

The government has already secured deals to buy rice from Vietnam and Cambodia as domestic stocks diminished.

"We'll buy 100,000 tonnes of white rice from Myanmar at $442 a tonne," its food minister, Qamrul Islam, said on Monday.

"It will take some time to complete formalities. Then shipment will start," he told reporters.

Rice is a staple food for Bangladesh's 160 million people and high prices pose a problem for the government which faces a national election next year.

The deal with Myanmar is the first state-to-state rice deal between the two countries and comes amid increasingly strained relations.

More than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing a military offensive in Myanmar have crossed into Bangladesh since Aug. 25. Bangladesh has said all refugees must go home and has also accused Myanmar of repeatedly violating its air space, warning that any more "provocative acts" could have "unwarranted consequences".

Bangladesh recently finalised a deal to import 250,000 tonnes of white rice at $453 a tonne from Cambodia, following a comparatively cheaper deal with Vietnam.

It is also engaged in a second round of discussions with Thailand for rice after its initial talks with Bangkok, and India, suffered a setback over high prices.

High demand from Bangladesh could further lift Asian rice prices, which hit multi-year highs in recent months after Bangladesh and other countries in South Asia saw their worst monsoon floods in years.

Bangladesh seeks to import 1.5 million tonnes of rice in the year to next June.

The government also started selling rice at a subsidised rate on Sunday and last month cut a duty on imports of the grain for the second time in two months.

However, prices of rice have not budged, a situation largely blamed on hoarding by middlemen.

National police chief A.K.M. Shahidul Hoque said on Monday that tough action would be taken against those found hoarding rice in order to later make windfall profits.

Bangladesh produces around 34 million tonnes of rice annually but uses almost all its production to feed its population, and often requires imports to cope with shortages caused by floods or droughts.
LONDON (Reuters) - Around 10,000 finance jobs will be shifted out of Britain or created overseas in the next few years if the UK is denied access to Europe's single market, according to a survey of firms employing the bulk of workers in international finance.

approached 158 banks, asset managers, private equity firms, insurers and exchanges with UK operations on their plans for moving staff as a result of Brexit and received answers from 123.

Fifty-seven companies said they would have to move staff or restructure their businesses because of Brexit, which is due to take place in March 2019.

Another 37 said Brexit would have no impact, and the remainder said they are still deciding what to do or declined to comment.

The survey was conducted by email and telephone interviews between Aug. 21 and Sept. 15. A total of 55 banks responded, along with 37 insurers and insurance brokers, 28 asset managers and private equity firms, and three exchanges.

They included the 20 investment banks that earned the most fees from investment banking in Europe, the Middle East and Africa in 2016, according to Thomson Reuters' data.

Some participants declined to comment on some of the questions. Some participants also asked for the information to be part of an aggregate only, which is why has not published the complete data.

The insurers who responded to the survey included the largest listed insurers in Britain, along with large European Union and non-EU insurers operating in Britain, major insurance brokers and listed and unlisted insurers with an international focus, such as those operating in the Lloyd's of London market.

Twenty-eight asset managers managing a collective $25 trillion responded. They included most of the global managers who use the UK as a base in Europe, as well as the leading British firms.

Survey participants were asked if Brexit would mean new jobs in the European Union and if so, to give details about whether they would be new jobs or transfers from London. They were also asked how many UK employees they currently have.

Seventy-five organisations provided the number of staff they currently employ in the UK, which added together totalled 484,578. Of those 357,617 were employed by banks, 106,348 by insurers, 16,363 by asset managers and 4,250 by exchanges.

The 39 firms which gave details on their plans for Brexit staffing together employ at least 359,983 people. A precise number could not be calculated because four did not answer the question.

The 20 banks in the survey who answered the question about how many jobs would be affected by Brexit said they expected 9,777 jobs to be moved or created in the EU.

Eleven insurers expected 98 roles to be created in the EU in total. Eight asset managers and private equity firms who gave the information saw 311 jobs in total being created.

Of banks who have made a decision on what to do about Brexit, six planned to add jobs in Frankfurt, four in Paris, three in Dublin, two in Amsterdam, one in Berlin and one in Brussels.

Among insurers, seven were setting up subsidiaries in Luxembourg, six in Dublin, three in Brussels, and one each in Malta, Munich and Paris.

For the asset managers, nine said they were considering moving staff to another country or hiring locally there. The most popular destination was Luxembourg, chosen by seven firms, followed by Dublin with one and one undecided.

There are 344 banks registered in Britain, according to the Bank of England, although that includes the domestic-focused subsidiaries of many larger banks as well as many smaller lenders that earn the bulk of their revenue in Britain so won't be affected so much by Brexit.

There are 503 UK authorised insurers, according to the Bank of England, though many larger firms have more than one authorisation. Many UK insurers also have a purely domestic focus, insurance specialists say.

While the asset managers contacted account for the lion's share of the assets managed in Britain, there remains a long tail of smaller managers registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, a figure it currently puts at 1,840 firms.

(Compiled by Carolyn Cohn, Andrew MacAskill, Noor Zainab Hussain, Simon Jessop and Dasha Afanasieva; Editing by Sonya Hepinstall)

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ford Motor Co and Indian vehicle maker Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd said on Monday they will launch a new strategic alliance, seeking technology sharing and cost saving in a range of activities from purchasing to development of electric vehicles.

The agreement comes with global automakers under pressure as policymakers demand they shift their product lines entirely to electric vehicles over the next two to three decades. At the same time, regional automakers such as Mahindra want access to technology, strong brands and global distribution networks that established companies like Ford can offer.

Ford shares rose 0.5 percent Monday. Investors are watching as Ford Chief Executive Jim Hackett, who took over in May, has begun to steer the automaker in a different direction.

Hackett's decision to no longer go it alone in India follows a move to hire an outsider to run Ford's operations in China, and shift production of the Ford Focus for the US market to China, instead of Mexico as previously planned. Hackett has also launched reviews of the company's luxury brand strategy and self-driving car development.

Ford and Mahindra said in a joint announcement they would seek ways to collaborate on a wide range of projects for up to three years. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Ford president of global markets, Jim Farley, and Ford's head of Asia Pacific operations, Peter Fleet, told Reuters on Monday that teams from the companies will start meeting next week to discuss ways to benefit in the short and medium term.

"We are focused on the now and near with this initiative. We want to work on the opportunities that are right in front of us," Farley said.

In the shorter term, Ford and Mahindra suggested they could benefit from collaborating on distribution of vehicles in India, pooling purchasing and collaborating on forays into ride services.

Longer-term projects could include sharing technology or development efforts for electric vehicles, the companies said. For Ford, the Mahindra deal points to a new strategy for dealing with demands from policymakers in many major markets to phase out petroleum-fueled vehicles in favor of electric cars and trucks.

Ford, like global rivals, faces a challenge because electric vehicles engineered for the United States or Europe are too expensive for Indian or Chinese customers. Policymakers in China and India, as well as some European countries, have signaled they want the industry to phase out diesel and gasoline vehicles over the next two to three decades.

By allying with Mahindra, Ford can work with the leader in the emerging low-cost electric vehicle market in India. In China, Ford said last month it would pursue a joint venture with Chinese low-cost electric vehicle maker Zotye.

"We will certainly be introducing the companies," Ford's Fleet said.

India is one of the world's fastest-growing car markets. Getting more companies to manufacture in India - both for its own market and for export - is critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, which needs to create millions of new jobs each year as the workforce expands.

However, global car makers like Fiat Chrysler, Volkswagen and General Motors have struggled in India, where nimbler rivals such as Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor have cornered roughly two-thirds of the market.

Turbulence in the Indian economy, and shifts in government policy on vehicle taxes and regulation have further complicated the situation for global automakers. Earlier in September, for example, India's cabinet approved an increase in the maximum levy on luxury cars and sport utility vehicles to as much as 25 percent - less than two months after deciding on a lower rate of 15 percent as part of the new nationwide goods and services tax.

In May, General Motors said it would stop selling cars in India at the end of this year.

Mahindra and Ford said their prospective alliance would give Ford access to Mahindra's distribution network in India while Mahindra would benefit from Ford's market reach in other developing economies.

The US company has already invested more than $2 billion in India and plans to spend more to set up a global engineering center in the southern city of Chennai to help adapt products for the local market and changing consumer trends. India has the second-highest number of Ford employees of any country, company officials said.

Ford and Mahindra had a partnership during the 1990s and early 2000s that involved cross share-holdings and was unwound in 2005.

Ford is among the top exporters of cars from India and manufactures and exports vehicles and engines from its plants in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Sanand, Gujarat.
HELSINKI (Reuters) - Nokia said on Monday it had received a decision in patent licence arbitration with LG Electronics.

The Finnish company did not disclose details of the award but said that it would book revenue, as well as a non-recurring catch-up payment, starting from the third quarter.

Nokia sold its once-dominant phone business to Microsoft in 2014, leaving it focused on its telecoms network equipment business while retaining its handset patents.

(Reporting by Jussi Rosendahl; editing by Jason Neely)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Padraic Halpin

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary admitted on Monday to a "cock up" over pilot shortages that led him to cancel flights and disrupt the plans of hundreds of thousands of travellers in his bid to improve the budget airline's punctuality.

The Irish airline said it was preparing for up to 20 million euros ($23.9 million) in compensation claims and 5 million euros in lost fares as a result of the cancellations, although analysts estimated the total cost could be higher.

"This is clearly a mess up, I take responsibility for the mess up and I have to clear it up. I say sorry on behalf of Ryanair. I say we want to put our hands up, which is what we do when we make a mess," O'Leary told a conference.

Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers blamed a number of factors for the sudden cancellations including a backlog of staff leave, which must be taken by the end of the year, air traffic control strikes and bad weather.

O'Leary promised the problem would not recur in 2018 but said there would be a reputational hit from cancelling flights to and from destinations including Barcelona, Brussels, Lisbon, Madrid, Milan and Rome, which would not help future bookings.

Norwegian Air said it had hired more than 140 Ryanair pilots this year, although O'Leary said it had lost less than 100 of its 4,200 pilots and had recruited some from its rival, meaning it could fully crew its peak schedule.

The move brought bad publicity for an airline which has worked hard over the past few years to improve a reputation for treating passengers badly.

"Have I damaged Ryanair's reputation with these cancellations? Yes but I would rather damage the reputation of Ryanair by cancelling 2 percent of our flights than significantly delaying 40 percent of our flights," O'Leary said.

Seeking to halt a decline in performance figures, Ryanair has taken the unusual step of announcing plans to cancel between 40 and 50 flights per day until the end of October "to improve its system-wide punctuality which has fallen below 80 percent in the first two weeks of September". This fell as low as 70 percent in the days before the drastic move to cancel flights.

COUNTING THE COST

While it currently calculates crew leave from April to March, the Irish Aviation Authority is forcing it to calculate it from January to December from the start of 2018.

O'Leary said the problems were "because we're giving pilots lots of holidays over the next four months." Every passenger who is entitled to compensation will receive it in full, he added.

Ryanair sent emails to the first affected passengers last Friday, giving them the choice of a refund or an alternative flight. It has issued cancellation notices up until Wednesday.

bulletins in Ireland ran interviews with disgruntled customers while newspapers asked readers to share their stories, including a wedding party who told the Irish Times they had been left stranded in France.

Analysts at Dublin-based Goodbody Stockbrokers estimated the cancellations would cost the airline about 34.5 million euros ($41.2 million)m -- comprising 23.5 million euros in compensation, 6.3 million euros in lost fees, and 4.7 million euros in subsistence such as meals, drinks and accommodation.

Goodbody said that would shave 2.3 percent off its full-year forecast of 1.479 billion euros in profit after tax.

In July, Ryanair reiterated its 1.4 billion to 1.45 billion euro forecast for the financial year ending March 31, 2018.

PILOTS IN DEMAND

Barring exceptional circumstances, airlines must under EU rules provide at least two weeks' notice to avoid paying compensation of 250 euros per passenger for flights of 1,500 km or less or 400 euros for longer flights within the bloc.

The fall in Ryanair's punctuality below 80 percent compared to an average of 89 percent in the three months to the end of June. O'Leary said at the time he was not happy with that figure, seeking a mark of over 90 percent.

O'Leary confirmed a report in the Irish Independent that Ryanair had been offering some pilots a 10,000 euro ($11,925) "signing-on bonus" to keep up with its rapid passenger growth.

Training company CAE Inc has warned the worldwide commercial aviation industry would need an extra 255,000 pilots by 2027 to sustain its rapid growth and was not moving fast enough to fill the positions.

Shares in Ryanair, which fell by more than 3 percent in early trading, were 1.85 percent lower at 1430 GMT.

($1 = 0.8362 euros)

(Additonal reporting by Ole Petter Skonnord in Oslo, Victoria Bryan in Berlin and Alistair Smout in London; Writing by Alexander Smith; Editing by Mark Potter/Keith Weir/Edmund Blair)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Padraic Halpin

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ryanair said on Monday it had messed up after the Irish budget airline disrupted the plans of hundreds of thousands of travellers by cancelling flights to cope with pilot shortages and improve its punctuality record.

The airline said it was preparing for up to 20 million euros ($23.9 million) in compensation claims and 5 million euros in lost fares as a result of the cancellations, but analysts estimated the total cost could be higher.

Ryanair blamed a number of factors for the sudden cancellations including a backlog of staff leave, which must be taken by the end of the year.

Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers also said air traffic control strikes and weather disruption were affecting its performance.

Chief Executive Michael O'Leary promised the problem would not recur in 2018 but said there would be a "large reputational impact" from the cancellations.

Rival Norwegian Air said on Monday that it had recruited more than 140 pilots from Ryanair this year, adding to the squeeze on staffing, although O'Leary said it was not short of pilots and was able to fully crew its peak summer schedule.

"It is clearly a mess but in the context of an operation where we operate more than 2,500 flights every day, it is reasonably small but that doesn't take away the inconvenience we've caused to people," O'Leary told Sky .

He said the problems were not the result of pilots quitting but was "because we're giving pilots lots of holidays over the next four months." Every passenger who is entitled to compensation will receive it in full, he added.

Seeking to halt a decline in performance figures, Ryanair has taken the unusual step of announcing plans to cancel between 40 and 50 flights per day until the end of October.

Ryanair said the cancellations were designed "to improve its system-wide punctuality which has fallen below 80 percent in the first two weeks of September" and as low as 70 percent in the days before the drastic move to cancel flights was taken.

While it currently calculates crew leave from April to March, the Irish Aviation Authority is forcing it to calculate it from January to December from the start of 2018, it added.

COST OF CANCELLATIONS

Ryanair sent emails to the first affected passengers last Friday, giving them the choice of a refund or an alternative flight. It has issued cancellation notices up until Wednesday.

The move brought bad publicity for an airline which has worked hard over the past few years to improve a reputation for treating passengers badly.

bulletins in Ireland ran interviews with disgruntled customers while newspapers asked readers to share their stories, including a wedding party who told the Irish Times they had been left stranded in France.

Analysts at Dublin-based Goodbody Stockbrokers estimated the cancellations would cost the airline about 34.5 million euros ($41.2 million)m -- comprising 23.5 million euros in compensation, 6.3 million euros in lost fees, and 4.7 million euros in subsistence such as meals, drinks and accommodation.

Goodbody said that would shave 2.3 percent off its full-year forecast of 1.479 billion euros in profit after tax.

In July, Ryanair reiterated its 1.4 to 1.45 billion euro forecast for the financial year ending March 31, 2018.

PILOTS IN DEMAND

Barring exceptional circumstances, airlines must under EU rules provide at least two weeks' notice to avoid paying compensation of 250 euros per passenger for flights of 1,500 km or less or 400 euros for longer flights within the bloc.

The fall in Ryanair's punctuality below 80 percent compared to an average of 89 percent in the three months to the end of June. O'Leary said at the time he was not happy with that figure, seeking a mark of over 90 percent.

The Irish Independent reported on Monday that Ryanair had been offering pilots a 10,000 euro ($11,925) "signing-on bonus" in response to recruitment problems.

Ryanair employed 4,058 pilots at the end of March, according to its annual report, up from 3,424 a year earlier to keep up with a rapid growth in passenger numbers.

Training company CAE Inc warned recently the worldwide commercial aviation industry would need an extra 255,000 pilots by 2027 to sustain its rapid growth and was not moving fast enough to fill the positions.

Shares in Ryanair, which fell by more than 3 percent in early trading, were 1.85 percent lower at 1430 GMT.

($1 = 0.8362 euros)

(Additonal reporting by Ole Petter Skonnord in Oslo, Victoria Bryan in Berlin and Alistair Smout in London; Editing by Mark Potter/Keith Weir/Alexander Smith)

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Padraic Halpin

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ryanair admitted on Monday it had messed up after the Irish budget airline disrupted the plans of hundreds of thousands of travellers by cancelling flights to cope with pilot shortages and improve its punctuality record.

Ryanair blamed a number of factors for the sudden cancellations including a backlog of staff leave, which must be taken by the end of the year. Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers also said air traffic control strikes and weather disruption were affecting its performance.

Rival Norwegian Air said on Monday that it had recruited more than 140 pilots from Ryanair this year, adding to the squeeze on staffing.

"It is clearly a mess but in the context of an operation where we operate more than 2,500 flights every day, it is reasonably small but that doesn't take away the inconvenience we've caused to people," Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary told Sky .

He said the problems were not the result of pilots quitting but was "because we're giving pilots lots of holidays over the next four months." Every passenger who is entitled to compensation will receive it in full, he added.

Seeking to halt a decline in performance figures, Ryanair has taken the unusual step of announcing plans to cancel between 40 and 50 flights per day until the end of October.

Ryanair said the cancellations were designed "to improve its system-wide punctuality which has fallen below 80 percent in the first two weeks of September."

While it currently calculates crew leave from April to March, the Irish Aviation Authority is forcing it to calculate it from January to December from the start of 2018, it added.

COST OF CANCELLATIONS

Ryanair sent emails to the first affected passengers last Friday, giving them the choice of a refund or an alternative flight. It has issued cancellation notices up until Wednesday.

The move brought bad publicity for an airline which has worked hard over the past few years to improve a reputation for treating passengers badly.

bulletins in Ireland ran interviews with disgruntled customers while newspapers asked readers to share their stories, including a wedding party who told the Irish Times they had been left stranded in France.

Analysts at Dublin-based Goodbody Stockbrokers estimated that the cancellations would cost the airline around 34.5 million euros ($41.2 million) -- comprising 23.5 million euros in compensation, 6.3 million euros in lost fees, and 4.7 million euros in subsistence such as meals, drinks and accommodation.

Goodbody said that would shave 2.3 percent off its full year forecast of 1.479 billion euros in profit after tax.

In July, Ryanair reiterated its 1.4 to 1.45 billion euro forecast for the financial year ending March 31, 2018.

PILOTS IN DEMAND

Barring exceptional circumstances, airlines must under EU rules provide at least two weeks' notice to avoid paying compensation of 250 euros per passenger for flights of 1,500 km or less or 400 euros for longer flights within the bloc.

The fall in Ryanair's punctuality below 80 percent compared to an average of 89 percent in the three months to the end of June. O'Leary said at the time he was not happy with that figure, seeking a mark of over 90 percent.

The Irish Independent reported on Monday that Ryanair has been offering pilots a 10,000 euro ($11,925) "signing-on bonus" in response to recruitment problems.

Ryanair employed 4,058 pilots at the end of March, according to its annual report, up from 3,424 a year earlier to keep up with a rapid growth in passenger numbers.

Training company CAE Inc warned recently that the worldwide commercial aviation industry will need an extra 255,000 pilots by 2027 to sustain its rapid growth and is not moving fast enough to fill the positions.

Shares in Ryanair, which fell by more than 3 percent in early trading, were 1.9 percent lower at 1315 GMT.

($1 = 0.8386 euros)

(Additonal reporting by Ole Petter Skonnord in Oslo, Victoria Bryan in Berlin and Alistair Smout in London; Editing by Mark Potter/Keith Weir)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In the wake of an explosion in London on September 15, President Trump called for cutting off extremists access to the internet.
Whether Artificial Intelligence (AI) would kill most jobs or create many new ones is a fiercely waged debate across the world. A new book, 'What To Do When Machines Do Everything' brackets the debate into three - Dystopians (such as Elon Musk and Stephen Hawking), Utopians (such as Ray Kurzweil and Peter Diamandis), Pragmatists (such as Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai).

The authors - Malcolm Frank, Executive VP of Strategy and Marketing at Cognizant, Paul Roehrig, VP of Strategy for Cognizant's Digital Business, and Ben Pring, who leads the company's Center for the Future of Work - say they fall into the third group. That is saying the future with AI "can be good if we make smart, practical decisions."

This writer caught up with Malcolm Frank when he visited Delhi recently. There's both bad and good news for professionals working in the IT industry. While parts of every tech service currently offered such as application development, maintenance, testing, and infrastructure maintenance can be automated, leading to redundancy in the number of engineers required, Frank sees emerging job opportunities in the following areas over the next many years:

1. Instrumentation: It is likely enterprises will automate and instrument all their processes, going ahead - in the book, the authors write: "By instrumenting and creating a Code Halo, you turn everything into a data generator, allowing you to see facts that have never been visible before." Professionals into Internet of Things (IoT) will, therefore, be in demand.

2. AI, Machine Learning, Data: Professionals across the data supply-chain, and analytics will rule the roost. Just like oil, data can be segregated into Upstream (instrumentation, sensors, connectivity), Midstream (databases, algorithms, logical models), and Downstream (devices, user interfaces, apps). The world needs people who can manage this supply-chain.

3. Cloud: IT service providers will continue to help enterprises migrate to the Cloud and execute integration work.

4. Cyber-security: A spike in jobs in this domain will be a result of all the above. When every device is linked and integrated to the Cloud, the world needs soldiers who would protect your data. Surely, every cloud has a silver lining.
Amazon India, last week, announced a 44,000 sq.ft. digital imaging studio in Gurgaon. Called BLINK, it is the third in the world - after New York and London - and would churn out images for fashion products on its site. The reason why the e-tailer invested in such a facility is simple. Showcasing what you would want to wear requires far better imaging than say, mobile phones, books, or even grocery. One could easily miss the details in a fabric, for instance, if it were not shot and edited with state of the art equipment. A high quality image would seduce consumers into buying more. Of course, premium brands, many of whom have just tasted success with e-commerce, are still finicky. While better images, content and videos can't replace the "touch and feel" of traditional retail, it can make the online buying experience more immersive.

The launch of the Gurgaon studio also underlines the importance of the fashion vertical for Amazon India. Fashion and Grocery are the growth areas of the future. And fashion is one category where Flipkart, its biggest Indian rival, dominates. The combination of Flipkart, Myntra and Jabong (both Myntra and Jabong are Flipkart companies) totals nearly 70 per cent of the online fashion e-tailing market, industry watchers calculate.

Business Today met Arun Sirdeshmukh, Head of Amazon Fashion in India, a few months ago. He made some interesting observations on the market and the company's prospects in India. Here are some highlights:

1. One out of three people visiting Amazon.in, look for one or more products in the fashion segment. Fashion SKUs now total about two million.

2. How the company communicates fashion is a tad different. Amazon, in fact, is marketing two brands - Amazon.in and Amazon Fashion. The company has run ad campaigns specifically around fashion and its sponsorship of the India Fashion Week is specifically meant to build this category.

3. The fundamentals of the fashion business, however, are no different from other categories the e-tailer sells. It promises a wide selection at a compelling price. Over the last one year, Amazon has fixed a missing piece - there were premium brands the site was not carrying. However, in the second half of 2016, the company launched almost 150 brands in India. The company continues to add international brands that are not available with any other e-tailer. The e-commerce world, calls this phenomena "exclusives". In an exclusive deal, Amazon makes better margins. If there is no competition, there is little undercutting.

4. Sirdeshmukh believes "the water will ultimately flow to players that does fulfilment well". He also added that with the company's Prime service, "we are in e-commerce 2.0". It is no longer about having an item delivered in four-six days. Shopping for fashion e-commerce means you should receive it tomorrow. As close (and fast) to the physical store experience.
Most flights to small cities are never full as there aren't enough passengers flying to or from them. The smallest passenger aircrafts that India has currently are 70-seaters.

To resolve this issue, a group of engineers in Mumbai are currently working on what will be India's first 19-seater airplane. According to a report by Economic Times , Amol Yadav, a pilot with a private airline is leading the initiative. The group is working out of a 3,000-sq-ft terrace in Mumbai's Borivli suburb.

The airplane will be called TAC 005 and is likely to be ready for flight in the next four months. The report quotes Yadav who said he began work on this project to solve the aforementioned connectivity issue with smaller cities. The 70-seaters are not cost-effective, as they are mostly not full.



Yadav also believes that the 19-seater would give people and airlines alike a chance to opt to fly this smaller plane.

Development of a 14-seater, Saras, ended in disaster in 2009, when the test flight ended in a crash, killing the 3-member crew. The programme was conceived around three decades ago and was cancelled after a series of setbacks, including the crash, but has now been revived.
Google has finally revealed its payment application, Google Tez. Few days back there were reports about the possible launch of Google's Tez application. The payment application is finally here and it comes with numerous offers to encourage users into using it. Further updates to the application will add features that will even enable debit and credit card payments. To download the official application, users should look for the application developed by Google Inc.

The application has been made available on both Play Store and iOS' app store. This new application is a big announcement from Google as it's the first payment application it has launched which is specific to Asia.

The new app will not compete directly with the likes of Paytm and other mobile wallets, instead it will use bank accounts to make payments via the phone. The payment will be based on UPI (Unified Payments Interface). The payment app works with all banks that offer UPI services.

Unlike digital wallets, there is no need to top up your balance. Instead, the user can directly pay from their bank account. The app despcription explains, "Tez works with your existing bank account, which means your money is safe with your bank and you'll continue to earn interest. There's no need to open a separate account or worry about reloading wallets."

For security, each transaction will need the UPI pin whereas to log in to the application one can secure it with Google PIN or a fingerprint. Google assures a multi-layered security and 24/7 by Tez shield.

The application even has a Cash Mode that will enable instant transactions with anyone nearby without sharing personal details like a phone number or bank account.

The app description mentions that soon it will also enable payment through debit and credit cards. Other than that, soon users will be able to set reminders for recurring bills. All money transactions will be capped at only 20 payments in a day with a cash limit of Rs 1 lakh.

The application has also setup a reward system to encourage more payments through its services. The user can get Tez Scratch Cards in the app and be eligible to win up to Rs 1,000 with each eligible transaction. Plus, weekly transactions enroll the user in Tez's Lucky Sundays contest where one could win Rs 1 lakh every week.

The application provides extensive language support from English, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu.

The launch of this new service can be seen as a game changer in the Indian industry as Google's reach will be an obvious advantage. The payment is also trying to fill the gap in banking between digital wallets and bank accounts. With direct transfers from and to the customers' bank accounts the app will not require to go through an extra step of topping up wallet balance.
WELLSVILLE  Change appears to become to the citys annual Sham Battle. After Native American groups <a href=http://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/local/article_15195214-971d-11e7-a165-b3993e27eb72.html target=_blank>expressed their disapproval</a> of the city-sponsored annual production, Wellsville City <a href=http://www.wellsvillecity.com/2017/09/17/wellsville-city-statement-concerning-founders-day-sham-battle/ target=_blank>responded with a statement</a> Sunday, which was posted to the citys website.

The citys statement said that no disrespect was intended, that the portrayal does not accurately represent the relationship the early settlers had with the Native Americans and that city officials have been working with members of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone to update it and make it historically accurate.

The event began to catch national attention after a column written by The Salt Lake Tribunes Robert Gehrke called for an end to the tradition.

The Sham Battle, which is a part of the towns annual Founders Day celebration, features a narrated battle scene played out by locals dressed as early settlers and Native Americans. Ute Indian Tribe Political Action Committee director Robert Lucero said the portrayal is both historically inaccurate and offensive.

The complete statement can be read below.

<blockquote>

Dear Citizens-

Wellsville City has been overwhelmed by the correspondence received about our Founders Day Sham Battle. Please forgive us for not commenting or responding immediately. We have been recipients of articles, emails, and social media posts of concern regarding the re-enactment of our Pioneer tradition. Wellsville City is working to review and make the changes necessary to portray an accurate representation of the relationship between the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation and the Mormon Pioneers in Wellsville.

Wellsville City officials met with tribal members of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation and agree our depiction of the Native Americans portrayed in the annual Founders Day Sham Battle does not convey the relationship the Pioneers had, or the respect we have today, for our Native American neighbors.

Wellsville City meant no disrespect. We apologize if weve offended anyone. We are grateful for this opportunity to have productive conversations with the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation. They have agreed to help us create an updated event that depicts historical accuracy and may tell a story rich in heritage and culture.

Thank you.

</blockquote>
By Iskander Zakirov and Yuliya Nevskaya

September 18, 2017, Central Asia-Caucasus Analyst

Uzbekistans foreign policy has undergone major changes during Shavkat Mirziyoyevs presidency. The neighboring Central Asian republics are becoming the main focus in an approach to forge improved regional political and economic cooperation. Yet after years of suspicion and antagonism between the regional states, the region is in the very early stages of developing mutually beneficial ties. By targeting efforts to improve cooperation to a number of priority areas, the Central Asian states can address the most pressing remaining obstacles to realizing the regions full potential.

BACKGROUND: In August 2017, Tashkent hosted a major international conference entitled Central Asia is the main priority of Uzbekistans foreign policy, which attracted representatives of the UN, UNDP and OSCE as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and experts from all Central Asian countries.

The event received a highly positive response both within and outside Uzbekistan. The conferences central theme was Uzbekistans new regional course. All participants agreed that Tashkents policy made it possible to radically change the political atmosphere in Central Asia and lay the foundations for effective regional cooperation. Already in the first days of his presidency, Shavkat Mirziyoyev took decisive and concrete steps aiming to develop mutually beneficial relations with neighboring states and establishing trustful contacts with all other Central Asian leaders. Over the past ten months, Mirziyoyev held eleven meetings and fifteen telephone conversations with the leaders of other Central Asian states, along with two state visits and two working visits.

In sum, it is becoming clear that Central Asia, including Afghanistan, is Tashkents main foreign policy priority. Moreover, as an increasing number of Uzbek and foreign experts have noted, Uzbekistans foreign policy towards Central Asia has already been formalized into a holistic and integrated doctrine, with the principal goal of comprehensively deepening relations and increasing interaction with the states of Central Asia.

Uzbekistans active regional policy for rapprochement with all Central Asian states, without exception, and intensification of political dialogue at the highest level has already produced significant practical results, particularly by providing new impetus for cooperation in the trade, economic, transport and communication spheres.

Uzbekistan is clearly aware that increasing Central Asias economic potential and the regions competitiveness in the global economy is impossible without realizing effective regional cooperation projects. Concrete steps have already been taken in this direction.

Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have launched joint serial production of Ravon Nexia R3 cars in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. Uzbekistans activities in intergovernmental commissions with Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan have intensified. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan held an unprecedented business forum with the participation of over 400 companies, during which 75 trade contracts and investment agreements were signed at a total value of approximately US$ 1 billion. Over 20,000 people visited the exhibition fair of Uzbek industrial products in Dushanbe in April 2017.

These developments have allowed Uzbekistan to increase its trade turnover with Central Asian countries by 13 percent in the first half of 2017. The volume of trade between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan grew by 69 percent, while trade with Tajikistan increased by 22 percent and with Kazakhstan by 11 percent. Since early 2017, a high-speed rail connection has also been established between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Tashkent resumed its air service with Dushanbe for the first time in 25 years, while flights have commenced between Tashkent and the Issyk-Kul region in Kyrgyzstan. The section of the M-39 highway traversing Uzbekistans border with Kazakhstan has been opened for passage.

The Central Asian countries are thus in the process of laying the foundation for regional integration, which could in extension turn Central Asia into a region of cooperation and development. However, the countries of Central Asia are still only at the beginning of this process. Even the outlined process of activating intraregional trade is still extremely uncertain and weak. Trade between Central Asian countries is less than 10 percent of the total trade turnover of the five states. The corresponding figure in the EU exceeds 60 percent and in APEC 68 percent.

At the same time, Central Asia has a substantial potential for trade and economic cooperation. According to calculations of UN experts, effective cooperation between the Central Asian countries could at least double regional GDP in 10 years.

IMPLICATIONS: In order to utilize this potential, the Central Asian republics will need to depart from the established practice of passivity when it comes to the development of regional cooperation. They could proactively take control of the process of coordinating and harmonizing joint cooperation in a number of promising areas:

First, addressing regional problems that hamper effective interaction between the countries of Central Asia. The regional countries would benefit from developing coordinated approaches to resolving disputes on the basis of reasonable compromises and taking into account each others interests. The hitherto prevailing winner takes all logic, involving competitive ambitions and groundless claims vis-a-vis neighboring countries has proven deadlocked and counterproductive. Instead, a mutually beneficial win-win strategy is a precondition for building relations between the countries of Central Asia. Such constructive interaction could potentially induce the involved parties to sign the conventions on the use of water resources in the Amu Darya and Syr Darya river basins. This would be a real step towards solving the regions water and energy problems on the basis of the interests of all parties, and in accordance with principles of rationality and justice.

According to the UNDP, ensuing damages from the lack of proper solutions to the issue of rational distribution of water resources in the region is estimated to US$ 1.7 billion per year. At the same time, the economic benefits from a wise usage of transboundary watercourses in Central Asia would amount to 5 percent of regional GDP  about US$ 20 billion. In addition, by taking into account mutual interests, based on reasonable compromises and equivalent exchanges, it would also be possible to solve such complex problems as delimitation and demarcation of borders.

Second, expansion of cultural and humanitarian ties. A favorable information background would benefit the development of cooperation and confidence building in the region, and provide an important safeguard against attempts to incite ethnic hatred, distrust and suspicion among the Central Asian countries. An important step in this regard is the establishment of tools for peoples and parliamentary diplomacy. The recent initiative of Uzbekistans president to create SCO Centers, intended to provide direct contacts between ordinary people and popularize the cultural heritage of each country, is therefore timely and in demand.

Third, development of trade and economic cooperation. This sphere could become a key direction of cooperation for all countries of Central Asia. The Central Asian republics constitute each others most convenient and promising markets. Moreover, the regional states in large part display economies and industries that are complementary rather than competing. Regional economic cooperation is therefore in the interests of all republics. In this regard, the Central Asian states have begun to consider the formation of a Regional Economic Forum for organizing direct dialogue between the countries business communities and a substantive discussion of specific cooperation projects. This initiative will help raise the awareness among Central Asian business circles of proposed initiatives and projects in the region, and serve to deepen practical interaction between business representatives.

Fourth, deepening cooperation in matters of regional security. The regional countries face similar threats posed by international terrorism, religious extremism, transnational organized crime, drug trafficking, and environmental problems. Against this background, the efforts of the Central Asian states to anticipate and neutralize these threats would be more efficient if they were united and consolidated. For this to become possible, the current tendency of delineating regional security challenges to national security concerns needs to be replaced by adherence to the principle of indivisible security.

Fifth, linking national development prospects to region-wide priorities. With a common agenda for the region, the Central Asian states would be able to more effectively defend their interests within international organizations, attract the support of donors and external forces to implement joint regional projects, and act from unified positions on important regional and global issues. The rapprochement of all regional states could resolve many of Central Asias problems, turn it into a powerful player in the international arena, and realize the regions large economic, scientific, technical, resource and demographic potential.

Sixth, developing a new ideology of multilateral cooperation. Interaction between Central Asian countries has frequently displayed a tendency to link certain problems of bilateral relations with others, thus transplanting lack of progress in one area to an entire interstate relationship and hindering the establishment of effective political and economic ties. A precondition for improved regional integration is to engage in pragmatic interaction, free from politicized attitudes. For the states of Central Asia, this implies putting aside the so-called mutual insults and claims, and demonstrate political will and readiness for compromises.

CONCLUSIONS: Central Asia is a region of enormous opportunities and a huge potential that has not yet been realized. Ensuring sustainable development, stability and prosperity in Central Asia is a common and achievable task for the states of the region. The fact that the Central Asian republics increasingly display an understanding of this fact is a significant step towards strengthening and expanding regional cooperation.

AUTHORS' BIO: Iskander Zakirov and Yuliya Nevskaya are Heads of Department at the Center for International Relations studies in Tashkent.
| BY Ricki Green |

This years Melbourne Cup Carnival campaign via McCann Melbourne moves into a bold, new and exciting place. A place that seeks to be of the general admissions audiences world and remind them that the Melbourne Cup Carnival is truly a world class event, not to be missed.

The new campaign launched across social, digital, TV, OOH and radio, focuses on appealing to a general admission audience who are harder to reach and convince to come to Cup Week than ever before.

Says Alec Hussain, group account director, McCann Melbourne: Everyone knows the fashion will be fabulous, the racing thrilling and the atmosphere electric. But our core general admission audience now has more choice of leisure activities than ever before and according to VRC research, a growing sentiment that the races are either not for them or just a little too hard.

Getting our audience to reappraise the Melbourne Cup Carnival as an event for them is critical to the campaigns success and to do that we had to push into and be part of our audiences world, not just the racing world which they can find inaccessible.

Says Jo King, head of brand, marketing and customer experience, Victorian Racing Club: This campaign combines the old and the new with ambition and intelligence. It reflects the evolving on-track experience for general admission such as The Park and Flamingo Croquet Lawn and seeks to introduce a new audience to the Melbourne Cup Carnival while also getting those that are familiar with it to reappraise it.

The campaign will be delivered across two creative phases, running from now through to Emirates Stakes Day on Saturday November 11th.

Client: Victorian Racing Club

Executive General Manager  Customer Engagement: Caroline Ralphsmith

Head of Brand, Marketing and Customer Experience: Jo King

Senior Manager, Marketing, Brand & Acquisition: Chloe Alsop

Advertising Agency: McCann Melbourne

Executive Creative Director: Matt Lawson

Creative Director: Nicole Mandile

Art Director & Copywriter: Caity Moloney, Tessa Midgley

Designers: Dave Budd, Pocai DeAlmeida Guilherme

Retoucher: Ross Goddard

Finished Art: Belinda Cuddon

Managing Director: Adrian Mills

General Manager: Anita Deutsch-Burley

Group Account Director: Alec Hussain

Account Manager: Angela Lethbridge

Head of Planning & Media: David Phillips

Head of Digital: Tony Prysten

Head of Social: Chris Baker

Digital Producer: Joshua Ida

Agency Producer: Anne Comber

Production Partner: //Thirteen & Co

Director: Pete Moore

Producer: Catherine Warner

Executive Producer: Roy De Giorgio

DOP: Tim Tregoning

Editor: Joe Morris

Colourist: Chris Reynolds

Online Editor: Eugene Richards

Post Company: The Butchery / The Refinery
| BY Ricki Green |

In a land of beer worship, Canadian Club has done the unthinkable: releasing an integrated campaign via The Monkeys, that asks Australians if they are over beer.

Created by The Monkeys, The Big Question carries on the brands marketing strategy, Over Beer, which continues to see success as it enters its seventh year.

Challenging Australias beer drinking culture, the campaign and its refreshing alternative message sees Canadian Club challenge the perception of dark spirits and gives consumers an opportunity to question the often sleep drinking default choice made with beer.

Upon reading the campaign script, film director Nick Kelly of The Sweet Shop says the range of characters excited him: A lot of us are in there somewhere. I love how the main character pokes a little hole in the beer myth and accidentally kicks open the floodgates for everyone else.

Says Scott Dettrick, creative director, The Monkeys: The challenge was to take on beer in Australia. We drink it, our dads drink it, and their dads drank it, too. Its in our cultural DNA. However, Australia is changing and our drink choices are too.

The campaign shows that beer isnt everything that its cracked up to be; it has been bloating our bellies and making our breath bad for far too long.

Says Tiffany Madsen, marketing manager, Beam Suntory: We know beer is synonymous with Australian culture, however Canadian Clubs success shows there is something in challenging the conventional wisdom of beer. When were given permission to not choose beer, its strangely liberating. Were not suggesting Australians stop drinking beer, but rather reconsider their love affair with the liquid.

Live from September, the campaign is set to run across broadcast, cinema, print and outdoor.

Client: Beam Suntory

Marketing Director: Trent Chapman

Marketing Manager: Tiffany Madsen

Brand Manager: Kristy Rathborne

Assistant Brand Manager: Michaela Lloyd Jones

Creative Agency: The Monkeys

Founder/CCO: Scott Nowell

Creative Director: Scott Dettrick

Senior Copywriter: Andrew Fraser

Managing Director: Matt Michael

Group Content Director: Humphrey Taylor

Content Director: Sam Wallace

Content Manager: Bec Barnier

Head of Production: Thea Carone

Senior Producer: Jade Rodriguez

Head of Planning: Michael Hogg

Strategic Planner: Laura McRae

Production Company: The Sweet Shop

Director: Nick Kelly

Executive Producer: Edward Pontifex & Loren Bradley

DOP: Stefan Duscio

Managing Director: Wilf Sweetland

Post Production: The Editors

Editor: Stuart Morley
| BY Ricki Green |

Independent agency The Hallway has further strengthened its senior team in Melbourne with several new appointments.

Wilmari Pienaar (right) joint the agency as CX director, Hannah Sturrock (left) has been promoted to group head and Tisha Lazaro (centre) has joined the agency in the role of senior art director.

Pienaars appointment will boost the agencys focus on design holistic customer experiences delivering guaranteed marketing ROI.

She joins The Hallway from AJF Partnership in Melbourne, where she was director of CRM and digital. Prior to AJF, she held senior strategic marketing roles in technology, travel and retail organisations including Intrepid Travel, Digital and Fairfax.

Says Jules Hall, CEO and partner, The Hallway: We are so excited to welcome someone with Wilmaris expertise to our team. She has a rare blend of deep technical knowledge combined with omni-channel strategic marketing experience. Plus she really understands the power of harnessing data to shape powerful customer experience throughout acquisition and retention journeys.

New group head Sturrock has been with the agency for six years, previously as head of operations. She takes on a new expanded role, working between Sydney and Melbourne, with a particular focus on leadership of the agencys ANZ business.

Sturrock joined The Hallway in 2011, after long stints at BMF and Karmarama in the UK.

Says Hall: Hannah joined us when we were only ten people in a little studio in Redfern, and has been a big part of our success, helping shape out brand and our culture. Shes also a natural leader and an awesome partner for our clients. Shes also an ex-Melbournian so handles the crazy weather and knows how to make a hook turn in the CBD.
| BY Ricki Green |

Establishing itself as a thought leader with a re-imagined approach to undergraduate education, The University of Sydney has launched its new brand campaign, Unlearn, created by The Monkeys.

The new curriculum will be on offer from 2018 and represents the most significant change to education the University of Sydney has undertaken in a generation. The universitys new model aims to better prepare graduates to succeed in a world where the careers and jobs of the future will be very different from today.

The campaign demonstrates that while weve all been taught how to memorise facts and figures, not everyone has been taught how to unlearn  how to question the world, demolish social norms and rebuild new ones in their place. The campaign will run across online, print and outdoor.

Says Barbara Humphries, creative director, The Monkeys: This is a bold direction for the University to take and a perfect example of their Leadership for Good positioning. Unlearning can take us to places conventional learning cant.

Says Johanna Lowe, deputy director, marketing and communications, The University of Sydney: Giving our graduates the capacity to think critically and make a positive change in the world is at the heart of our undergraduate education model. The Unlearn campaign reflects this progressive approach really well, and we hope it encourages our community to do some unlearning too.

Client: The University of Sydney

Director, Marketing and Communications & Chief Marketing Officer: Marian Theobald

Deputy Director, Marketing and Communications: Johanna Lowe

Head, Brand and Marketing Services: Kerry Capsanis

Project and Brand Manager: Pia McMorran

Project and Brand Manager: Jessie Carter

Agency: The Monkeys

Chief Creative Officer: Scott Nowell

Creative Director: Barbara Humphries

Creative team: Chloe Banicevic and Archana Murugaser

Finished Artist: Lucinda Hansen

Designer: Lauren Elliot

Managing Director: Matthew Michael

Group Content Director: Kelly Spence

Content Director: Shannon Duhig

Senior Content Manager: Tim Leathart

Head of Production: Thea Carone

Senior Broadcast Producer: Christina Wilmot

Broadcast Producer: Ellen Fraser

Senior Integrated Producer: Sally Lankshear

Executive Planning Director: Fabio Buresti

Head of Strategy: Michael Hogg

Communications Strategy Director: Gary Peace

Production Company  PHOTOPLAY

Film Director  Michael Corridore

Producer  Emma Thompson

EP  Oliver Lawrance
Your digital subscription includes access to all content on our agricultural websites across the nation. Access unlimited content and the digital versions of our print editions - This Week's Paper.
Sunday, September 17, 2017 at 11:07PM

We associate the Note8 with being a good productivity tool. But this new Samsung ad suggests it can be used for more than that. The creative types, or those who just love to doodle, can actually use it to flirt. The newest ad for the Galaxy Note8 shows a couple getting together and falling in love with each other using the Live Messages feature on the phone to express how they feel. Its a cute ad and it gets across how Samsung is trying to market the Note8 outside of the productivity seekers.
Monday, September 18, 2017 at 2:37AM

Hulu has been a slow starter in the major awards circuit. But it got a first that its rivals Amazon and Netflix havent been able to get yet: a win in the Outstanding Drama category at the Emmys. Hulus The Handmaids Tale just won in said category, besting the likes of Stranger Things, This Is Us, The Crown, Better Call Saul, Westworld, and House of Cards. The show won four other awards that night, including best actress for Elisabeth Moss and best supporting actress for Ann Dowd.

The Handmaids Tale is adapted from Margaret Atwoods 1985 novel of the same name. The shows writer and executive producer Bruce Miller, who also took home an Emmy for writer in a drama series, thanked Atwood for creating this world for all of us.

Source: Mashable
Monday, September 18, 2017 at 10:42AM

Kids birthday parties have become pretty competitive over the past few years. Thanks to social media shares and Pinterest "inspiration", parents have taken their kids' birthday parties to a whole other level. We've all seen it. Moms who are obsessed with planning the parties for a four year old that is equivalent of a Sweet 16 party. Nothing wrong with that. I may have fallen in that obsession myself. After all, we gave birth to humans and these days we are looking for a reason to celebrate anything!

But what we don't need is the stress of planning a party. According to a recent Netflix survey, 82% of parents around the world want their kids to feel special on their birthday. 71% of parents admit to feeling pressured to throw an over-the-top birthday party for their kids, but 71% also wish there was an easier way.

So, are there ways to keep things simple while creating something special for your child's birthday without going over the top? Whether you have a birthday party theme, or not, Netflix has created on-demand birthday messages with some of the most popular shows on the streaming service including DreamWorks All Hail King Julien, Barbie, Beat Bugs, DreamWorks Dinotrux, Las Leyendas, LEGO Friends, LEGO Ninjago, Luna Petunia, Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir, My Little Pony, Pokemon, Project Mc2, Skylanders Academy, DreamWorks Trollhunters and Word Party.

After two years of the clever Netflix New Year's Eve on-demand countdowns (they were brilliant!), I'm pretty sure this will be a hit with the little ones!

So, other tips? We've gone through many years of kids parties and if I can give you some advice? It doesn't matter how much money you've spent on a party or how perfect that cake is. Little ones just want to just celebrate and be celebrated. A sleep over with a couple of friends is just as special as renting out the nearby trampoline playground.

It's also easy enough to pull an entire theme from one of these kids shows. Get them outdoors for an activity! If you haven't seen Beat Bugs, it's a sweet one. Pokemon is a no-brainer for us. Or try All Hail King Julien for a tropical themed party.

Wondering if Netflix can do this for adults too? Imagine Orange is the New Black or Titus of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Hey, Netflix my birthday is coming up!

To find the Netflix Birthday on-demand videos for kids, simply search "birthday" on the streaming service.
"Our reservations in relation to the proposed redefinition of marriage itself and, regardless of what views may be held on that issue, the genuine and very valid concerns we hold about our ongoing ability to continue to teach and model a Christian view of marriage we are, respectfully, asking all those associated with the school community to participate and vote NO in the survey.
Under the scheme, the agency pays a fixed rate of $501.71 per client to providers for each night in respite (also known as short term accommodation.) Ms Hall said Marymead had been running at a "significant financial loss" under this price for some time and had spent almost two years advocating for a more flexible rate, which better reflected clients with high needs, as well as penalty rates for staff working weekends.
"If the ACT government pushes through its preferred scheme, it will mean more injured people will be forced into the social welfare system, or forced to take out expensive private injury and income protection insurance, rather than, as they do now, getting a level of compensation that would enable them to have flexibility as to how their injuries are treated and to pursue the recovery of the actual loss they have suffered," she said.
The push for national testing comes amid growing concern about Australian student standards. About one in 20 year three students in 2016 did not meet the national minimum standard for reading or numeracy. According to the Program for International Student Assessment in 2015, 18 per cent of Australian 15-year-olds were low performers in reading proficiency by international standards. More than 20 per cent of 15-year-olds were low performers in mathematical literacy.
THIS WEEK IN CAPE BRETON: Raising the peace flag, reviewing future plans for Centre 200 and more

SYDNEY  During a time of conflict around the world and with racial tensions on the rise in many parts, its clear there are those who want to find a bright, positive light wherever they can. Over the next several days, the YMCA of Cape Breton will ...
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.
The Hyundai-Kia group has been hiring a raft of designers from Europe, and has now added another to its ranks in Pierre Leclercq.



Born in Belgium and educated in California, Leclercq started his career with Zagato and Fords Ghia studio in Italy before climbing up the ranks at BMW  first as an exterior designer in Los Angeles, then in Munich where he ultimately served as design chief for the M performance division.

Leclercq left the Bavarian automaker in 2013 to take up office as head of design at Great Wall Motors, but is now leaving the Chinese automaker to assume a new role as head of styling for Kia. Hell find himself in good company at the Korean giant, working under group design chief Peter Schreyer (formerly of the Volkswagen Group, pictured second from left, below).

Hyundai also tapped Luc Donckerwolke (third from left, also from VW) to run the Genesis design department, and former Bugatti designer Alexander Selipanov (fourth from left) to work with him. The company also recently picked up former BMW M chief engineer Albert Biermann (fifth from left) to run its N performance sub-brand.

Pierre Leclercq has a unique insight into global vehicle design, and brings with him the necessary experience and expertise to help reinforce Kias design identity in the coming years. said Schreyer. Design has played a key role in the transformation of the Kia brand, and Pierre will help to ensure our design-led approach remains consistent across new model launches in new segments.

In his new job, which he starts this month, Leclercq will direct Kias design strategy and coordinate between the companys design studios in Korea, China, Europe, and the United States.

Photo Gallery
A Porsche Boxster Spyder has injured 11 people after crashing into a crowd of bystanders in Boise, the capital city of Idaho.



According to authorities, the driver of the Porsche lost control while leaving the parking lot where a Cars and Coffee event was being held.

KTVB asserts that police believe the driver was accelerating rapidly as he was leaving the event and footage of the crash clearly shows the rear-end of the Porsche losing traction before it mounts the curb, spins and collides with a number of pedestrians.

Boise Police Lt. Charles Lebar told local media that six people were transported to hospital by ambulance while the remaining five went in private vehicles. He says some of the injuries are serious, but none of them are critical.

We do not have any information that this was an intentional act. It is my understanding that there was at least one person that was taking video of the cars that were leaving the parking lot, and accelerating quickly eastbound on Overland, Lebar said.

It is unclear if the driver will face criminal charges.

Windshield of car looks smashed in. Crash on Overland in front of Edwards 21 pic.twitter.com/OxyGHZJQHV Katy Moeller (@KatyMoeller) September 16, 2017

VIDEO
PSA Group, the owner of Peugeot, Citroen and DS Automobiles, is engineering its next generation of vehicles to meet U.S. regulations as part of their plan to return in North America.



The news were confirmed by PSA Groups CEO Carlos Tavares who spoke to AutoNews at the sidelines of the Frankfurt Motor Show.

That means that from three years down the road well be able to push the button, if we decide to do so, in terms of product compliance vis-a-vis the U.S. regulations, Tavares said.

He also added that theyve decided which of their brands -Peugeot, Citroen or the premium DS- will be the first to show up in North America but theyre not ready yet to announce their decision.

PSAs plan to return on the U.S. market will be a 10-year effort, as the French auto maker will begin this year making partnerships in the in-car sharing and mobility businesses.

PHOTO GALLERY
The new Netflix sitcom Disjointed, which takes place in a Los Angeles pot dispensary, features a short animated sequence in each episode created by independent animators.

The sequences, which revolve around PTSD and medical marijuana, were overseen by creative director Dave Hughes, who is the creator of the Adult Swims remarkable indie animation anthology Off the Air. Since the Netflix credits dont acknowledge any of the animators, Hughes took it upon himself to upload a reel of the Titmouse-produced sequences to Vimeo and identify all of the artists:

Its especially nice to see the sequences compiled like this because the animation is easily the highlight of the series. It was a challenging project in all the right ways, Hughes wrote on his Vimeo. I couldnt be happier with how the shorts came out, and its been great to see that many viewers feel the same.
Hundreds of people packed the Kelowna Community Theatre Saturday night to be inspired by Craig Kielburger, the founder of Free the Children and Me to We.

Kielburger spoke about how he got into philanthropy at a young age, just 12 years old, and about the people who inspired him.

By crowd applause, he let the audience decide what inspirational people he would talk about.

For the first topic, given a choice between Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Ed Bradley and Kielburger's grandmother, the audience overwhelmingly chose the grandma option.

Kielburger spoke about how making a real change in the world is never easy and can take many attempts to make a difference.
Photo: The Canadian Press Researchers are in Nunavut to view underwater Franklin ship.

A tiny dot of fuschia bobs livid against the deep blue Arctic sea at a GPS point known only to selected researchers and the few local hunters who guard it.

Anchored somewhere in Wilmot and Crampton Bay off Queen Maud Gulf, the buoy could not be more remote. Even the Inuit seem uncertain about what to call the islands  mere rock-strewn smudges of sand  that dot these waters.

That is about to change.

The buoy marks where, 10 metres down, Sir John Franklin's flagship the Erebus rests on the bottom, heaving up and down in the undersea swells as if breathing. Its lonely moorage will soon be home to one of the largest and most complex archeological excavations Canada has ever mounted.

Now, six archeologists camp out on a beach near the site. They dive from a small inflatable boat, subject to the vagaries of wind and wave.

By this time next year, a dedicated research vessel big enough to sleep 14 will be moored here. Alongside will be a barge, loaded with everything from artifact-cleaning tables to a hyperbaric chamber for divers if they get into trouble.

Vacuum dredges will suck sediment topside where workers will search it for anything from buttons to musket balls. A hydraulic crane will lift heavy items. Multibeam sonar will scan the site.

Divers, wearing suits trailing air hoses and communication lines and warmed by hot water pumped from the surface, will spend hours combing the wreck.

"I've never seen a case where shipwrecks have so much to contribute to a story," says Marc-Andre Bernier, head of Parks Canada's underwater archeology team.

The Franklin Expedition is one of the great legends of Arctic exploration.

The Erebus and its sister ship the Terror  which lies in deeper water just to the north in King William Island's Terror Bay  set out from England in 1845 with 129 men to search for the Northwest Passage. They never returned.

A message found in 1859 by a search vessel said both ships were trapped in ice in late 1846 and remained so for about 18 months. It added that in April 1848, 105 survivors headed out on foot. None survived.

More than 30 expeditions have since tried to find them. A few artifacts, graves and horrible tales of cannibalism is all they had to show.

In 2008, Parks Canada joined the effort.

Using a blend of Inuit oral history and systematic, high-tech surveys, the Erebus was found in 2014 to excited headlines around the world. Since then, Parks Canada has been working to understand what's down there  and what light it could shed on a story that has become part of Canadian lore.

"The degree of preservation is astonishing," says Charles Dagneau, one of the archeologists. "Typically, we deal with shipwrecks that are collapsed, split open, covered with sediment. This is a 3D structure so well preserved that you can actually see furniture in place."

The helm remains in position. The latrines are still in place. The cook's galley is there, complete with stove. So is the steam engine, one of the earliest outfitted for a ship.

The Erebus sailed with a 3,000-volume library, equipment to print a ship's newspaper and materials to stage amateur theatricals. It held a Daguerreotype camera  capturing, maybe, images from the voyage.

The wreck is expected to offer compelling insight into the lives of both officers and rank-and-file seamen.

"There is, for example, a seaman's chest," says Dagneau. "They would sit on it, eat on it, but they would also store their personal belongings (in it). One of them is right next to the forward ladderway. We're going to look at excavating it and retrieving its content."

Ice has crushed the deck atop Franklin's cabin, but the contents should remain.

"We're hoping to find many things here  personal artifacts that relate to individuals, but also records, documents saying what happened to the expedition after the abandonment of the vessel and why these vessels were abandoned and where they were abandoned."

These will not be anonymous artifacts.

The names of the ship's crew are known. Government of Nunavut archeologist Doug Stenton has already developed a DNA database of 19 of them and the divers sense their presence.

A belt plate has been linked to Daniel Bryant, sergeant of the Royal Marines.

A boot has surfaced, well-made and decorated with seal fur. Traces of skin inside retain enough DNA to be identified.

"That artifact in particular was, for me, wonderful," Dagneau says. "I felt like I was excavating the wardrobe of one of the officers on board."

Where objects are found could also shed light on interactions with Inuit. A pile of unrelated objects found together may suggest hunters were scavenging useful items before the Erebus sank.

A total of 64 artifacts, including the ship's bell, have already been recovered. Many are now on display at the National Maritime Museum in London.

Their ultimate fate is in dispute. As a warship, the Erebus and its contents remain the property of the Royal Navy. The United Kingdom, however, has granted Canada "care and custody." Nunavut has its own claim, pointing to a clause in its land claim giving it ownership of archeological sites within its boundaries.

The matter is under discussion by the Franklin Interim Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from Nunavut, Ottawa and the nearest communities.

"Governments used to take artifacts and simply tell the side of the story that they wanted to tell," says Parks Canada CEO Daniel Watson. "This approach is to make sure that the Inuit, who've been part of this story for longer than those of us in southern Canada, are able to make sure that story's told.

"The stories around artifacts, what happens with the artifacts, that'll all be part of the conversations with the advisory committee."

Meanwhile, the site is watched by four Inuit guardians who, from their camp beside the archeologists, are able to spot any intruders. The RCMP, Transport Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard also keep an eye out  as does National Defence from satellite monitors.

"The likelihood of a large ship making its way to this area unobserved is small," Watson said.

"And it's a long way out. Anybody who is coming in will have been observed. The system as a whole has a good sense of who is coming into this area and who's leaving the area."

The study of the Erebus is just beginning. Its location  much further south than it could possibly have drifted in sea ice  has already raised questions of whether the ship was remanned after being abandoned.

The real fun is about to begin, says archeologist and project manager Ryan Harris.

"The next step is targeted excavation, and that's the exciting bit for an archeologist."

From beneath the icy waves, more than 170 years after the mystery was born, science and Inuit history are about to resurrect what may be the most we'll ever know about a story that poets, novelists and artists have already turned into myth.

"What excites me is the anthropology of these ships, the lives of these men as they went through what must have been a terrible couple of years," Harris says.

"In these two shipwrecks that preserve so much of the crew's spaces inside, we're afforded the opportunity to study the lives of these men  in extremis  as they stared over the precipice."
Photo: Contributed

Four people were taken to hospital after a collision on Postill Lake Road Sunday night.

Everyone was able to be removed from the vehicle and paramedics, firefighters and police were on scene at around 6:15 p.m.

There are few details at this time as to what caused the collision to take place.

RCMP are investigating and will remain at the scene.
Photo: The Canadian Press

The RCMP has launched at least 20 investigations involving dozens of vendors shipping fentanyl from China as Canada grapples with a record number of illicit opioid deaths, the force's director of serious organized crime says.

"Most intercepts are done here in Canada," Sgt. Yves Goupil said, adding arrests have been made and charges will be laid.

Goupil said their investigation has only uncovered Chinese suppliers of fentanyl for the illicit market.

"It's not just Canada, it's the U.S., and it's all the other countries as well that are putting a lot of pressure on China," Goupil said, adding Mounties have met with Chinese officials twice since November 2016.

"When we were there in April we basically provided them with a lot of intelligence as to all the seizures we had made," Goupil said from Ottawa, adding that about 100 seizures of fentanyl were made up to then by the RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency.

Chinese officials could no longer ignore their country's role in Canada's growing opioid epidemic, he said.

"We suggested a course of action for China to actually stop and disrupt the influx of shipments of fentanyl. We want to make sure that China assists us once we identify vendors."

Goupil said the Mounties, along with the CBSA and Canada Post, have worked together to identify the best way to flag parcels arriving from China at three international mail-sorting centres  Montreal, Mississauga, Ont., and Vancouver, which gets most of the mail going to destinations across the country.

Fentanyl is prescribed as a painkiller but is also sold illicitly and often pressed into pills. Two milligrams of fentanyl, the equivalent of about four grains of salt, can kill someone who may not even know it's been mixed with drugs including heroin and cocaine.

"We know that for every little package that comes into Canada people can die," Goupil said. "Time is of the essence and we have to fight all the time to tackle the issue."

From June 2016 to Sept. 6 this year, the agency made 156 fentanyl seizures across the country, 83 of them in the Pacific region, it said in an email.

"While most fentanyl seizures are made at the Vancouver International Mail Centre in the Pacific region, it is important to note that fentanyl has been seized at Pacific region's air cargo operations and in other modes and regions," the CBSA added.

Goupil said Mounties have identified about 70 vendors from China, though at least two domestic sellers with ties to that country are also involved.
Photo: The Canadian Press Leadership contender Jagmeet Singh greets supporters before the NDP's Leadership Showcase in Hamilton, Sunday.

The four federal NDP leadership hopefuls had one last chance Sunday to make their case to party voters before balloting begins to select a replacement for outgoing leader Thomas Mulcair.

And all four said they are the candidate to unseat Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government.

Manitoba MP Niki Ashton, Quebec MP Guy Caron and Ontario MP Charlie Angus and Ontario legislature member Jagmeet Singh took part in a leadership showcase Sunday at a caucus retreat. Each candidate had 22 minutes to present their plan for the federal party and all kept their verbal barbs targeted at Trudeau's Liberals, not each other.

Singh, the perceived frontrunner, pitched himself as the candidate who can square off against Trudeau to win in 2019.

"They told us we couldn't win in the suburbs and we did," he said. "In Alberta and British Columbia we were told we'd never win government, but Rachel Notley and John Horgan (did). We've also been told that the NDP will never form the federal government. But together, we will."

Angus's presentation focused on reconciliation with Indigenous communities, cutting student debt and economic inequality. Standing with a worker from the Cami automotive plant in Ingersoll, Ont., he vowed to fight corporate interests, and the Trudeau government, to stand up for workers.

"They may have the lobbyists, the money and the inside track, but our history in the New Democratic Party, in the labour movement, in the women's movement, in the environmental movement, at the grassroots has proven time and time and time again that people have the power to make change," Angus said.

Ashton told the crowd that if she led an NDP government she would eliminate tuition fees, create a national childcare system and a Crown corporation to fight climate change. She told party members that the NDP must be "bold and progressive" if it's going to be successful.

Caron pledged to fight the Trudeau government with a substance over style approach. The party won't form government if it can't bolster its seat count in Quebec, he added. The NDP currently holds 16 seats in Quebec, well below the 59 it claimed in its historic breakthrough in the province in 2011 under Jack Layton's leadership.

Members will vote for Mulcair's successor via mail-in or online voting starting today, with results to be announced in early October.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and British Prime Minister Theresa May say their two countries are working towards a new bilateral free trade deal to take effect after the United Kingdom leaves the European Union.

Both leaders say the template for a deal would be the long-heralded Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement, or CETA, that comes largely into effect this week between Canada and the EU.

The Canada-EU trade deal eliminates well over 90 per cent of all barriers in trade between Canada and the European Union, and as such provides "an excellent basis for ensuring a smooth transition" post-Brexit, Trudeau said.

"After that, there will obviously be opportunities for us to look at particular details that could be improved upon for the specific needs and opportunities in the bilateral relationship between the U.K. and Canada," he told a joint news conference on Parliament Hill.

"But as a strong basis for a smooth transition, CETA is perfectly designed, and will be able to ensure  for investors, for companies and for workers and consumers  a smooth transition."

May agreed that using the Canada-EU agreement as the basis for a forthcoming new bilateral deal makes sense and would ensure the best path forward for all parties.

"We want to ensure that for businesses and indivduals, that there is as smooth a changeover, when the United Kingdom leaves the European Union, as possible; we want to see as little disruption to economies and to people's lives," she said.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Hollywood director James Cameron and his wife Suzy Amis Cameron have announced they are investing in an organic pea-processing plant in Saskatchewan.

The Oscar-winning Cameron appeared today in Vanscoy, a village southwest of Saskatoon, to say the couple have formed Verdient Foods to handle 160,000 tonnes of organic pea protein.

He says that, once operational, the plant will become the largest organic pea protein facility in North America.

The Camerons have entered into a four-year research contract with the non-profit Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre.

The aim is to develop value-added organic food products that will be produced by Canadian and global companies using ingredients from the Verdient plant.

Cameron is a Canadian-born filmmaker behind the blockbuster movies "Titanic" and "Avatar."

His wife is an environmental advocate and former actor.
Photo: Twitter

Parks Canada has informed some evacuees that they will be able to return to the Waterton Lakes National Park townsite starting Tuesday.

A powerful wildfire burning in British Columbia forced everyone out of the southwestern Alberta park 10 days ago before it breached the park's boundaries.

The agency says in a letter to residents, business owners and leaseholders that initial re-entry will take place over a 24-hour period.

It says two vehicles and four people will be allowed in for each property and everyone must check in at a reception centre.

Parks Canada spokeswoman Natalie Fay says the entire park other than the townsite remains closed for safety reasons.

She says power may be intermittent and people returning should report any disoriented or injured wildlife they see.
Photo: The Canadian Press Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is dropping the gloves in his fight with Boeing, saying his government won't do business with a company that he's accusing of attacking Canadian industry and trying to put aerospace employees out of work.

The comments represent the strongest yet against the U.S. aerospace giant since Boeing launched a trade dispute with Montreal-based rival Bombardier earlier this year.

And they leave little doubt Trudeau's Liberal government is serious about walking away from a controversial plan to purchase 18 interim Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing if the company doesn't stand down.

"We have obviously been looking at the Super Hornet aircraft from Boeing as a potential significant procurement of our new fighter jets," Trudeau said.

"But we won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and trying to put our aerospace workers out of business."

Beyond the interim plans, the prime minister also appears to have left open the door to excluding Super Hornets entirely from any future competition to replace more broadly Canada's aging fleet of CF-18 jets.

Trudeau made the comments during an appearance with British Prime Minister Theresa May, who says Canada and the U.K. will work together to defend Bombardier, which has a factory in Northern Ireland.

Boeing has accused Bombardier of selling its CSeries passenger jets to a U.S. airline at an unfairly low price with help from government subsidies, and says the case affects its long-term economic health.

"We will continue to stand up for jobs and stand up for the excellent airplane that is the Bombardier CSeries aircraft," Trudeau said.

"The action that Boeing has taken is very much in their narrow economic interests, to harm a potential competitor, and quite frankly is not in keeping with the kind of openness to trade that we know benefits citizens in all countries around the world."
Photo: The Canadian Press Finance Minister Bill Morneau

A jousting match erupted Monday between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer as the Liberal government's plan to end "unfair" tax advantages for some wealthy small business owners dominated the return of Parliament.

As they exchanged blows, the two leaders gave what is likely a preview of the themes that will underlie their respective election campaigns in 2019 as each tries to position himself as the champion of the middle class.

Scheer kicked off the first question period of the fall sitting by accusing Trudeau of hiking taxes on hard-working, middle-class small business owners.

"As Conservatives, we believe in raising people up, not tearing people down," Scheer said. "Conservatives wake up every day trying to think of new ways to lower taxes. Liberals wake up every day trying to find new ways to raise taxes."

The new Tory leader, who took over the post in May, vowed that the "pain will only be temporary," promising that Conservatives would fight the proposed tax changes "every step of the way" and "save local businesses."

Trudeau countered by accusing Scheer of siding with the wealthiest Canadians at the expense of their truly middle-class counterparts.

"(Conservatives) have been going around the country telling every doctor they meet that they stand with them, that they will defend their right to pay lower taxes than the nurses who work alongside them," the prime minister said.

"We don't think that's fair."

Trudeau even went on the offensive, urging Scheer to commit "right now" to reversing the Liberals' proposed changes and restoring the current system of "tax breaks for wealthy individuals" if they win the next election.

Scheer did not oblige, prompting Trudeau to accuse the Tories of peddling misinformation to stoke outrage but without any intention of actually undoing the proposed changes.

"They're happy to talk about outrage but they're not proposing to keep this system," Trudeau said. "They invent problems, exaggerate them and then won't act because they know that helping middle-class Canadians matters."
Using ultrafast flashes of laser and x-ray radiation, scientists at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics took snapshots of the briefest electron motion inside a solid material to date. The electron motion lasted only 750 billionths of the billionth of a second before it fainted, setting a new record of human capability to capture ultrafast processes inside solids!

When x-rays shine onto solid materials or large molecules, an electron is pushed away from its original place near the nucleus of the atom, leaving a hole behind. For a long time, scientists have suspected that the liberated electron and the positively charged hole form a new kind of quasiparticle  known as core-exciton. But so far, there has not yet been a real proof of its existence. Scientists have a wide range of tools to track excitons in semiconductors in real-time. Those are generated by ordinary light, and can be employed in various applications in optoelectronics and microelectronics. On the contrary, core-excitons are extremely short-lived, and up to now, no technique was available to track their motion and deduce their properties.



A team of scientists led by Dr. Eleftherios Goulielmakis, head of the research group Attoelectronics at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, have been able to capture the dynamics of core-excitons in solids in real-time. Using flashes of x-ray radiation lasting only few hundred attoseconds followed by optical light flashes of similar duration (a tool developed by the group last year) the scientists obtain an ultrafast camera which allowed them to take snapshots of the short-lived excitons in silicon dioxide for the first time.



Core-excitons live for a very short time because their interactions with other particles in the solid quickly stops their motion, said Antoine Moulet, leading author in this work. In quantum mechanics we say that the exciton loses its coherence, he adds.



A key tool to track the dynamics of core-excitons has been the development of attosecond light flashes in the optical range. The work was published by the Attoelectronics group last year.



In our experiment we use x-ray flashes to light up core-excitons in solids, whereas the optical attosecond pulses provide the possibility to resolve this motion in real-time, says Julien Bertrand, a former researcher in the group of Goulielmakis, at present assistant professor at Laval University, Canada. The combination of both allowed us to take snapshots of the motion of core-excitons which lived for approximately 750 attoseconds.



But the study was not limited to capturing these fleeting motions inside solids. We were able to acquire quantitative information about the properties of core-excitons such as their miniature dimension which were merely bigger than that of a single atom, or how easily they are polarized by visible light, says Goulielmakis. Our technique advances excitonics, i.e. the measurement, the control and the application of excitons in the x-ray regime. But at the same time, it is a general tool for studying ultrafast x-ray initiated processes in solids on their natural time scales. Such a capability has never before been possible in x-ray science.



The team now envisages applications of their technique for studying ultrafast processes at interfaces of solids, and new routes to realize ultrafast switches for x-ray radiation based on optical light fields. With x-ray free electron lasers rapidly proliferating around the world, the capability of controlling x-rays with visible light becomes increasingly important, says Goulielmakis.
Physicists at Lancaster University are developing methods of creating renewable fuel from water using quantum technology. Renewable hydrogen can already be produced by photoelectrolysis where solar power is used to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen. But, despite significant research effort over the past four decades, fundamental problems remain before this can be adopted commercially due to inefficiency and lack of cost-effectiveness.

Dr Manus Hayne from the Department of Physics said: For research to progress, innovation in both materials development and device design is clearly needed.

The Lancaster study, which formed part of the PhD research of Dr Sam Harrison, and is published in Scientific Reports, provides the basis for further experimental work into the solar production of hydrogen as a renewable fuel. It demonstrates that the novel use of nanostructures could increase the maximum photovoltage generated in a photoelectrochemical cell, increasing the productivity of splitting water molecules.

Dr Hayne said: To the authors best knowledge, this system has never been investigated either theoretically or experimentally, and there is huge scope for further work to expand upon the results presented here.

Fossil fuels accounted for almost 90% of energy consumption in 2015, with absolute demand still increasing due to a growing global population and increasing industrialisation.

Dr Manus Hayne said: Fossil-fuel combustion releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, causing global climate change, and there is only a finite amount of them available for extraction. We clearly need to transition to a renewable and low-greenhouse-gas energy infrastructure, and renewable hydrogen is expected to play an important role.

Photovoltaic solar cells are currently used to convert sunlight directly into electricity but solar hydrogen has the advantage that it is easily stored, so it can be used as and when needed. Hydrogen is also very flexible, making it highly advantageous for remote communities. It can be converted to electricity in a fuel cell, or burnt in a boiler or cooker just like natural gas. It can even be used to fuel aircraft.
The new GIX building in Bellevue, Washington. PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY

"Innovation is all about 'what is new', and the key is to dare to think differently," said Microsoft's Harry Shum.

Shum, executive vice-president at the tech giant, leads Microsoft's AI and Research Group.

He is also actively involved in educational innovation as one of the five board members of the Global Innovation Exchange (GIX), a partnership between major research universities and innovative corporations to develop leaders in innovation.

The two founding partners of GIX are the University of Washington and Tsinghua University, with foundational support from Microsoft.

The idea of the model was born in 2012, and the partnership between the two universities was created after Microsoft President Brad Smith visited Tsinghua University in Beijing.

"We started working on this five years ago, and it was based on the sense that future education would need to bring people together from different countries," Smith said. "Some of the problems of the world are global problems, issues like climate, (and) don't respect boundaries. If we are going to make progress in solving these problems, we have to find new ways to work together. It really requires that people start to learn together as students. As they learn more about each other, in our view, we build a new bridge across the Pacific.

"I still remember it like it was yesterday, the very first conversation I had with the University of Washington about this," he said. "And I said in that breakfast that, if we were very fortunate, we would succeed in persuading one university above all others to join, and that would be Tsinghua University."

Smith said "it was a reflection of Microsoft's long-standing research work in Beijing, our relationship with Tsinghua University. I felt that of all the universities in the world, it could bring more to this kind of international partnership, really the kind of partnership the world needs, than any other institution.

"So above all, I am very pleased now five years later to look back and see this become real," he said.

Shum said "the model is a cross-country, cross-culture and cross-discipline one, which I believe builds fertile soil for innovation".

On Sept 14, GIX announced that it had been joined by eight more Academic Network members and five Industry Consortium members.

The eight members of the GIX Academic Network are: Ecole polytechnique federale de Lausanne, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the Indian Institute of Science, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, National Taiwan University, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Tecnologico de Monterrey, and the University of British Columbia.

GIX Industry Consortium members include: Arm, Baidu, Boeing HorizonX and T-Mobile. Hainan Airlines has joined GIX as a valued partner providing travel support, fellowships and project support for students.

Academic Network members promote GIX to their students and connect faculty with relevant areas of research expertise. They also may offer projects to GIX learners in connection with industry partners. They benefit by gaining connections to UW research and Seattle's innovation ecosystem.

Industry Consortium members gain access to the GIX community of faculty, inventors and learners and may submit projects for students in the launch phase of the curriculum.

The goal shared by this member network is to forge connections and foster long-term relationships leading to technical exchange, co-invention and collaboration.

On the same day, GIX also celebrated the opening of its new home, a 100,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Bellevue, Washington.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, announced that the new GIX facility will be named the "Steve Ballmer Building" in honor of the former Microsoft CEO.

Microsoft provided $40 million in early funding and is committed to GIX's long-term growth and success. Ballmer has always been an advocate for business collaboration across international borders. He advanced Microsoft's global footprint and operations and forged groundbreaking new partnerships around the world.

Under Ballmer's leadership, Microsoft was the first company to open a basic research facility in China, and as a result, the Redmond, Washington company has a 20-year relationship with Tsinghua University.

"With the building opening, the partnership really enters its next phase, because the most important thing for us to contribute right now is frankly not more money, but time," Smith said.

Later this month, the GIX building will be occupied by the program's first two cohorts of master of science in technology innovation (MSTI from UW) degree students and dual degree students, which combines the MSTI with a master of engineering in data science and information technology (MEDSIT from Tsinghua) degree.

Half the students are from the United States and China. The rest hail from around the globe, from Canada, Estonia, France, India, Pakistan, Paraguay, Russia and Switzerland.

The Chinese students selected for the program were among the school's top tier but also had to prove they were adept at problem-solving, said Yang Bin, vice-president and provost of Tsinghua.

"We just 'opened the door' to the brand new GIX building," said Tsinghua University President Qiu Yong at the celebration ceremony. "I know we have opened the door to a level of cooperation that is unlimited by boundaries. We have opened the door to a collaboration that will facilitate international and interdisciplinary integration for technological innovation. And we have opened the door to an innovative education model and greater global capacity to tackle the world's greatest challenges."

Smith said it was "an important day for the relationship between China and the United States, because this is a building and this is a partnership that will help our countries (move) closer together. And I think that's what the future of the world requires if we're going to make progress and solve the world's problems."

With more global partners joining, GIX looks for an enrollment of 3,000 in a decade.
A conveyor belt carries filled boxes to trucks Aug. 1, 2017, at an Amazon fulfillment center in Romeoville. Amazon signed five of the areas 13 largest leases during the one-year period through mid-2017, including two in Aurora plus deals in Monee, Waukegan and Crest Hill. ( Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune )

It could be several months before Chicago finds out if it lands Amazon's 50,000-job second headquarters, but the e-commerce company is already making a big impact on the area's economy.

Led by Amazon leases, there's been more warehouse space gobbled up in the Chicago area over the past year than anywhere in the country.

Advertisement

In the past four quarters, through the end of June, a combined 22.3 million square feet of manufacturing and distribution space was absorbed in the greater Chicago area, according to Colliers International.

"The industrial market, particularly in Chicago, has benefited greatly from e-commerce demand," said Carter Andrus, who oversees the Chicago market for the area's largest industrial landlord, San Francisco-based Prologis, which owns 41 million square feet of warehouses in the metro area.

Advertisement

Net absorption, a key gauge of demand, measures the change in occupied space from one period to the next.

Amazon signed five of the area's 13 largest leases during the one-year period through mid-2017, including two in Aurora. It also signed deals in Monee, Waukegan and Crest Hill. The five new deals are for about 4.8 million square feet combined.

Amazon and similar companies are disrupting other businesses, such as traditional retailers, but the shift has created an overall rise in warehouse demand, Andrus said. Online retailers need three times the amount of warehouse space as a traditional retailer because they stock a broader range of products and also take in large numbers of returned products, he said.

"There are some traditional retailers whose business isn't as strong as a result (of more online orders), and there's a reduction of space for those companies," said Andrus, Prologis' head of operations for the central region, which stretches from Texas to the Chicago area. "But that pales in comparison to the increased demand we're seeing from e-commerce companies."

Online retailers also typically require lots of manpower, which is a boon to the local economy.

Amazon already has more than 7,000 employees in Illinois, and the new distribution facilities are expected to add thousands of additional jobs.

Chicago and Illinois officials said they plan to bid on Amazon's recently announced "HQ2," where it could eventually have 50,000 new, high-paying office jobs.

While Chicago office developers fine-tune their pitches, industrial property owners already have responded to increased demand.

Advertisement

Developers completed 22.8 million square feet of new industrial space in the Chicago area in the past year, second-highest of any U.S. market, according to Colliers. The Dallas area led the nation with 26.4 million square feet of completed projects during that time.

The greater Chicago area, which includes small pockets of Wisconsin and Indiana, is the nation's second-largest industrial market, with 1.37 billion square feet of space. Southern California is the largest, with 1.81 billion square feet.

Chicago is a coveted distribution and manufacturing market because of its central location, large labor pool and access to multiple modes of transportation.

The area's overall industrial vacancy was 6.7 percent in the second quarter, just above the 6.6 percent in the previous quarter that set a 16-year low.

Other recent big industrial deals have included candy-maker Mars' new 1.4 million-square-foot facility in Joliet, and a 1 million-square-foot facility built for tissue, paper and building materials company Georgia-Pacific in University Park.

During the second quarter, there was another 14.8 million square feet of industrial space under construction in the area, according to Colliers. Landlords and brokers are keeping a close eye on the Interstate 80 corridor, where four warehouses of more than 1 million square feet are under construction on speculation, or without leases signed in advance, said David Bercu, a principal in Colliers' Rosemont office.

Advertisement

"We've got to watch and see if that's absorbed without Amazon adding more space," Bercu said. "Other large users have got to step up.

"Amazon has skewed the numbers a little bit because they've taken down so many large spaces. I think, for the most part, they've put their dots on the map around Chicago."

For companies such as Amazon that have built networks of large warehouses in the area, the next frontier could be a wave of small facilities in heavily populated areas of the city where land is scare, in order to make speedier deliveries directly to consumers.

In order to get closer to neighborhoods, some companies are willing to accept older, less functional buildings that they can retrofit, Bercu said.

Andrus said the Chicago market could even see vertical development in areas of the city where land is costly. That phenomenon is now mostly limited to ultra-dense areas of Asia, such as in Hong Kong.

Prologis already is constructing the country's first vertical warehouse in Seattle  which will be three levels  and it plans another in San Francisco, Andrus said.

Advertisement

"Chicago's on our list where we're investigating" other vertical warehouses, he said.

An earlier version of this story misstated the location of Mars' new facility.

rori@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @Ryan_Ori
David Hausch, President of Hausch & Company headquartered in Elgin, speaks about the work his adjusters do in devastated areas on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune) (Stacey Wescott)

A thousand miles from the devastation wrought by hurricanes Harvey and Irma, Chicago-area insurance claim adjusters are in high demand.

In addition to an army of staffers dispatched by Allstate and State Farm, scores of independent adjusters have been called to the front lines in Texas and Florida by insurance firms struggling to keep up with mounting claims in the wake of the back-to-back Category 4 hurricanes.

Advertisement

Hausch & Co., an independent Elgin-based insurance claims firm, sent 10 adjusters to Texas and has 19 at the ready as claims begin to trickle in from Florida. That represents a significant portion of the company's resources, with 43 claims adjusters on staff and about 70 subcontractors on call.

Dave Hausch, president of the 70-year-old firm, said his company is working mostly for three regular clients but is receiving a flood of inquiries from other insurance carriers looking for claims adjusters.

Advertisement

"People we've never worked for before are calling us to see if we have capacity," Hausch said. "It kind of started a bidding war for the subcontractors."

The unprecedented one-two punch of Harvey and Irma marked the first time the U.S. was hit by two Category 4 hurricanes in one season. That has taxed everything from emergency resources to the insurance industry, which is scrambling to process claims from both hurricanes simultaneously.

Northbrook-based Allstate has 4,700 claims personnel on the ground in Florida, Texas and the Southeast and in catastrophe call centers, helping homeowners process claims, the company said.

"We know those impacted by Harvey and Irma need to have their claims handled quickly and efficiently so they can start to rebuild and restore their lives," Allstate spokeswoman April Eaton said in an email.

State Farm has over a thousand staffers deployed to the affected areas, with thousands more helping in customer call centers and in other capacities, spokeswoman Missy Dundov said.

The Bloomington-based insurance company had received about 41,000 home and auto claims from Irma and more than 81,000 from Harvey as of Monday.

In addition, State Farm is employing an undisclosed number of independent adjusters for Harvey and Irma, Dundov said.

"They are part of our customer response strategy," she said.

Advertisement

There are about 57,200 independent insurance adjusters in the U.S. as of July, up from 54,900 nine years ago, according to Loretta Worters, spokeswoman for the Insurance Information Institute.

While Worters said the industry group hasn't seen a claims adjuster shortage, the severity of this hurricane season is spreading resources thin.

"Part of the issue here is we're getting more frequent and severe storms," Worters said. "That will probably put some stress on getting insurance adjusters."

Hausch said the demands of this hurricane season have caused a backlog of claims closer to home and forced him to limit the number of adjusters he sends to Florida and Texas.

Paul LaMantia, an adjuster for Hausch, returned home last week after 10 days in Texas, where he processed about 60 claims and witnessed both the devastation and inspiration that has emerged from the floodwaters.

LaMantia, 36, of Algonquin, joined Hausch as a claims adjuster 11 years ago after graduating from Eastern Illinois University. He is a veteran of several major storms including Superstorm Sandy, but he said he was blown away by the extent of the damage caused by Harvey.

Advertisement

"The devastation I saw from Harvey was definitely more than I saw up in New York (with Sandy)," LaMantia said.

He flew into San Antonio on Sept. 3 and rented a car to drive to Corpus Christi, the Gulf Coast city where Harvey made landfall about a week earlier. After handling several dozen claims, mostly for wind damage, he drove to Houston to respond to flooding claims.

LaMantia said the devastation varied from neighborhood to neighborhood, with the hard-hit areas marked by mountainous debris piles lining residential streets. Part of his job was to rummage through the debris and "put the puzzle together after the fact" to assess the damage.

"You're talking debris piles so big that you can't even see the garages," LaMantia said.

Most flood insurance is sold by insurance carriers but written through the National Flood Insurance Program, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Homeowners who have flood coverage still need to have their claims processed through their insurance carriers before FEMA will pay out.

Advertisement

LaMantia said despite their plight, the Houston homeowners he dealt with were "nice and hospitable," with many sharing harrowing tales of their brushes with Harvey.

"One guy was telling me his daughter was born two nights before they had to evacuate," LaMantia said. "They released the baby from the hospital, and they had to drive six hours with a (newborn) in their car."

Days were long and nights were spent in oversold hotels, where evacuees, restorers and claims adjusters made up the majority of the clientele, LaMantia said.

"You know the adjusters who are at the hotel," he said. "Everyone is on their laptop in the lobby at night working."

Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys as a Category 4 hurricane on Sept. 10, climbing the Gulf Coast of the state through Tampa before diminishing to a tropical storm. While the most devastating projections were averted, Irma may prove to be one of the costliest hurricanes in U.S. history, with insured losses estimated between $25 billion and $35 billion, a spokesman for AIR Worldwide said Monday.

AIR, a Boston-based catastrophe modeling firm, pegged the insured losses from Harvey at more than $10 billion. AIR estimates do not include losses paid out by the National Flood Insurance Program or losses to uninsured properties.

Advertisement

Property losses from Harvey's record 50-inch rainfall are estimated to be between $65 billion and $75 billion, according to AIR.

LaMantia, who spent his 36th birthday writing insurance estimates in a Texas hotel, plans to ship off again once he is caught up with paperwork. He is not sure if he will return to Texas or head to Florida, a decision that will be based on the flow of claims.

While the work is stressful, LaMantia said, it is rewarding  and a lot easier than the path ahead for the homeowners.

"I go in, take pictures, write an estimate and send it in to the insurance company," he said. "The homeowners have to rebuild; they have to replace everything."

rchannick@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @RobertChannick
CNN "New Day" anchor Chris Cuomo admits that standing outside in a storm as powerful as Hurricane Irma requires some rationalization.

"It's arguably a stupid thing to do," he said this week on the phone from Naples, Fla., where he and his crew spent several nights living out of a minivan while reporting for the cable network. "But we do it for a reason."

Advertisement

Cuomo was among the anchors and correspondents willing to take the risks necessary to inform the public and emergency responders about the conditions and spread the word on the needs of the victims (CNN had an army of 140 people working on the story). He went a step further by sharing his satellite phone with residents who needed to get in touch with loved ones after the storm.

Such emotional moments helped boost the ratings for all the cable news networks during the storm coverage. Fox News Channel had the most viewers among the news networks. But, aside from the Weather Channel, CNN got the biggest ratings boost for the week that ended Sept. 10, according to Nielsen.

Advertisement

For the duration of the storm from Sept. 6 to 11, CNN averaged 1.47 million viewers, a 69% jump from its average for the previous four weeks, according to Nielsen. Fox News had 1.76 million viewers, a 28% jump; while MSNBC had 1.13 million, an increase of 12%. In the 25-to-54 category, the age group that advertisers value most in news programming, CNN was up 89% and ranked first in the category during for five straight days, the longest such streak the Time Warner-owned channel has had since 2001.

The ratings surge is a reminder that many viewers are still in the habit of going to CNN in a time of crisis, underscoring its commitment to devoting resources to breaking news around the world over 37 years.

"CNN was a natural place for all those viewers to flock to, given that the brand remains incredibly strong and the place for major news," CNN President Jeff Zucker said in an interview.

The question is whether CNN can hold on to those viewers when the intensity of a news story subsides. It has become more of an imperative lately as MSNBC has made major gains in ratings after several years of running a distant third behind Fox News and CNN. MSNBC has picked up viewers during the day with its breaking news coverage while leading CNN on most weeknights when its politically left-leaning hosts are on.

Zucker said he does not see a need to change course, noting that his network still leads MSNBC in the 25-to-54 category year-to-date in prime time.

But the competition is gaining ground. MSNBC has been powered to its best numbers ever thanks to the emergence of Rachel Maddow as the voice of the anti-Trump movement. She is now the most-watched host on cable news among the 25-to-54 demographic.

The audience for first-place Fox News is so loyal, the network's ratings have withstood several major changes in personnel including the loss of marquee anchor Bill O'Reilly, who was fired in April amid a sexual harassment scandal at the network. Even with the lineup shifts, Fox News viewers know they can rely on the channel to hear a robust defense of President Trump's policies from its commentators.

Zucker notes that his network is running ahead of its record ratings year of 2016 on the strength of its breaking news coverage, which he believes is what viewers still look for from the channel.

Advertisement

"If you think about the last five or six weeks there has been a tremendous run of big stories with what's happened in Charlottesville, what's happened in North Korea and what happened with Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Irma in Florida," he said. "The fact is audiences have been incredibly strong for CNN all year."

CNN remains ahead of NBCUniversal-owned channel MSNBC among 25- to 54-year-olds and is having the best year in its history in the category.

Over the past six months, more viewers have watched breaking news during the day on MSNBC than on CNN.  NBC News spokesperson

Although it does not matter to advertisers, MSNBC has the bragging rights of being ahead of CNN among all viewers over the full day in 2017, for the first time ever. NBC News, which runs the channel, believes the milestone is viewers' recognition that MSNBC is more than a political talk outlet.

"Over the past six months, more viewers have watched breaking news during the day on MSNBC than on CNN," an NBC News spokesperson said. "That's a seismic shift that was almost unimaginable two years ago when MSNBC changed its daytime product from opinion shows to live, breaking news coverage in collaboration with NBC News."

Even with the pressure from MSNBC, Zucker said he has no plans to shake up his prime-time lineup to try to take on Maddow in the 9 p.m. Eastern hour. CNN currently has Anderson Cooper anchoring the time slot on most nights.

"We're incredibly happy with our schedule," Zucker said. "We don't have this need to win every hour. We have this need to report and service our audiences on television and in digital."

Advertisement

CNN's ratings and its digital growth have it on track to take in $1.1 billion in profit this year, a strong financial performance that comes at a time of pending transition. AT&T's deal to acquire CNN parent company Time Warner is expected to be approved in the next few weeks. It has led to speculation about whether the company is willing to deal with the headaches that come with being in the news business and whether it wants Zucker at the helm of the network. Trump, who became a reality TV star at NBC under Zucker's watch at the network, often complains about CNN's aggressive coverage of his administration.

Zucker declined to comment on the AT&T deal, and would not confirm whether new management had called to praise the hurricane coverage and the service it provided to viewers.

As far as the criticism from the White House, Zucker said CNN's internal research continues to show the "fake news" narrative pushed by the White House has had no effect on public perception, even prior to its coverage of Irma.

"There is no evidence any of those silly attacks by the Trump White House were having any effect whatsoever," Zucker said. "There is strong evidence it was working to the contrary given our audience levels."

One unexpected side benefit generated from Cuomo's Irma coverage is the social media attention he received for the tight T-shirts he wore on camera. He good-naturedly insisted the wardrobe choice was not an attempt to generate viewer interest.

"My T-shirts are all XL," said the anchor, who stands 6 feet 2 and weighs 220 pounds. "I wear black because it hides the sweat. The idea of my wearing an intentionally tight shirt is demonstrably false."

Advertisement

stephen.battaglio@latimes.com

Twitter: @SteveBattaglio

ALSO

How L.A.'s Halo Top became America's bestselling ice cream pint

Chefs react angrily as federal appeals court upholds California ban on foie gras

What exactly does a big company like Nestle get when it buys an upstart like Blue Bottle?
Illinois Service Federal Savings & Loan officers Kweku Nduom, left, and his brother, Chiefy Nduom, are seen in a 2016 file photo. The bank is the city's last black-owned bank, where Chicago has made a $20 million deposi.t (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)

The last black-owned bank in Chicago is set to receive a $20 million deposit of city funds.

City Treasurer Kurt Summers on Monday announced the deposit into Illinois Service Federal Savings and Loan Association.

Advertisement

Founded in Chicago in 1934 to help give the black community better access to credit, ISF Bank is one of just more than 20 black-owned banks in the country, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

The deposit is meant to help drive economic development in the city's neighborhoods, Summers said.

Advertisement

"It's about being a community bank," said Summers, noting that his office works to invest in the city's neighborhoods and institutions. "Community banks are a great opportunity for that because they are designed for the sole purpose of reinvesting in their local area."

Though the Bronzeville bank survived the financial crisis and remains the last black-owned bank standing in Chicago, it has seen recent overhauls.

Ghana's Nduom family, which has a conglomerate that spans West Africa and the United Kingdom, invested $9 million into the bank in June 2016. The family brought plans to make services more efficient, among other changes.

Now, the bank is in a more stable position, and the time was right for the city to make the deposit, Summers said.

On average, the city keeps between $300 million and $700 million on deposit in banks. In order to receive deposits of city funds, financial institutions must go through a special certification process.

The deposit at ISF Bank, which went through the certification process, is the first the city has made with the intent to bolster a community bank, Summers said.

This newest deposit will strengthen the bank's financial foundation, Chairman Papa Kwesi Nduom said in a news release.

It will ensure "that we can strengthen the economic base of our communities and help people fulfill their dreams," he said.

Advertisement

The push to invest in black-owned banks and by extension the community is nothing new. The idea is that with money on hand, institutions can improve surrounding communities with loans to individuals and small-business owners.

One of ISF's competitors, Seaway Bank and Trust, ran a local version of a national campaign known as Bank Black that encouraged people to bank at black-owned institutions. Some industry experts, however, have questioned whether opening new accounts at black-owned banks would turn around neighborhoods affected by lack of investment and jobs.

Seaway was closed by regulators early this year and after two sales is now part of North Carolina-based Self-Help Federal Credit Union.

amarotti@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @AllyMarotti
Ilene Gordon, CEO of Ingredion, is photographed at the company's Westchester headquarters in 2016. Gordon will retire from the company next year, further thinning the ranks of top female executives in the Chicago area. (James C. Svehla / Chicago Tribune)

Ingredion CEO Ilene Gordon will retire from the company next year, further thinning the ranks of top female executives of large corporations in the Chicago area.

Gordon will conclude an eight-plus-year run in which she realigned the Westchester-based global ingredients company with changing consumer tastes and positioned it for growth. When Gordon joined the company, shares sold for about $25. On Monday, they closed at $125.59, up 75 cents from Friday.

Advertisement

As with CEO Irene Rosenfeld of Deerfield-based Mondelez International, who announced her own retirement last month, Gordon will be replaced by a man. Jim Zallie, 56, currently executive vice president of global specialties and president of the Americas business for Ingredion, will take over as CEO Jan. 1.

Gordon, 64, will serve as executive chairman of Ingredion's board of directors until she retires in July 2018.

Advertisement

"The responsibility of the board is to select the most qualified candidate to lead the company," Gordon said Monday. "We feel very confident that Jim is the right person to lead Ingredion forward."

With more than 30 years of experience in the industry, Zallie was president and CEO of the New Jersey-based National Starch before Ingredion  then known as Corn Products International  acquired his company in 2010. He's since helped grow the business of specialty starch ingredients globally, Gordon said.

"I appreciate Ilene's support and counsel over the years. She has been an insightful adviser, fearless leader and champion of Ingredion's values and mission," Zallie said in the company's news release Monday.

There are 32 female CEOS of Fortune 500 companies this year, meaning that 6.4 percent of the largest companies in the U.S. are run by women, according to Fortune's annual list. That's up from 21 female CEOs last year, according to Fortune. Gordon and Rosenfeld are both longtime fixtures on the list.

"I'm a big believer in building the pipeline and we will get there. You will see more women as leaders of Fortune 500 companies," Gordon said.

Ingredion has worked in recent years on "building the pipeline" for women and minorities to ascend to leadership positions, Gordon said. Half of the external hires for senior positions were women last year, she said, up from previous years.

Ana Dutra, president and CEO of The Executives' Club of Chicago, noted that Gordon was also the first female chairman of The Executives' Club and still serves on the board. Dutra said she had "tremendous respect" for Gordon.

"At the end of the day, you have to choose the right candidate at the time. ... What I think is that we all need to fight for more women to be developed for leadership positions," Dutra said.

Advertisement

Megan Kashner, clinical assistant professor at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, said it's too early to say whether the increase this year in female CEOs of Fortune 500 companies is a trend reflecting any real progress.

And Kashner said the retirements of Gordon and Rosenfeld don't necessarily reflect the opposite.

Choosing a CEO for a Fortune 500 company is a process with many stakeholders  including board members and shareholders  that lends itself to conservative decision-making, Kashner said.

"With that many cooks in the kitchen, there's a tendency to stick with what is known," Kashner said.

Ingredion used to be known for making high fructose corn syrup, the ubiquitous sweetener that some consumers have turned against in recent years. Since Gordon came aboard in 2009, the company has diversified its portfolio of ingredients through acquisitions and developing new products.

Ingredion reported about $5.7 billion in revenue last year.

Advertisement

After the acquisition of National Starch, Gordon rebranded the company and repositioned it as a global ingredient-maker that's increasingly working with large food and beverage companies to evolve with changing consumer trends.

Ingredion did not report any changes to compensation Monday in connection with the succession planning.

Gordon made about $10.3 million in total compensation last year, according to Ingredion's proxy statement filed in April. Zallie made about $3 million.

gtrotter@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @GregTrotterTrib
Auto mechanics and supporters walk the picket line outside the Toyota of Naperville on Aug. 14, 2017. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Mechanics at Chicago-area auto dealerships were back at work Monday after approving a four-year contract Sunday and ending a strike that was about to begin its eighth week.

The walkout, which started Aug. 1, involved nearly 2,000 mechanics at almost 140 new-car dealerships throughout the Chicago area. Many dealerships had to shut down repairs completely during the strike, and customers in need of warranty work or other more complicated repairs had to seek services elsewhere.

Advertisement

"We're extremely happy that the strike's over but extremely disappointed for the inconvenience that was put upon the dealers, the striking workers and consumers," said Mark Bilek, spokesman for the dealerships' bargaining committee.

The offer voted on Sunday was the fourth since the strike began, according to a news release from Automobile Mechanics' Local 701.

Advertisement

The contract addresses a number of requests from the union that became major sticking points during negotiations. Mechanics will see their base pay increase two hours under the new contract and see wage increases.

"We made some proposals, we conceded on some proposals, and we finally agreed to something that was within our comfort level," said Sam Cicinelli, spokesman for Local 701.

The terms of the contract are similar to those in separate agreements that about 70 dealerships entered into with union members after breaking ranks with the bargaining committee, according to the union.

The bargaining group, called the New Car Dealership Committee, presented the proposed pact to the union last week, days after the union rejected its "last, best and final" offer.

Both sides agreed to withdraw charges they had filed with the National Labor Relations Board alleging violations of labor law during the negotiations.

The return to work has not been completely seamless, Bilek said.

Most dealerships book appointments for repairs, and during the strike, they stopped scheduling work, he said. People have been putting off nonessential repairs, Bilek said, but it'll take time to get cars back in the shop.

"It's not like you just turn the light on and everything goes again," he said. "It'll be a couple days before things ramp up."

Advertisement

At Bill Kay Buick GMC in Downers Grove, 10 mechanics are typically on duty, service adviser Mike Manning said, but five were brought back to start.



Like other dealerships, Bill Kay Buick stopped scheduling appointments during the strike. The mechanics brought back Monday were working on cars left by clients who took out loaners, Manning said.



Other customers were put on a call-back list, and as they come back, so will the mechanics.



"We had four or five sheets of call backs with about 30 names on each sheet," Manning said. "That's what I've been doing all day is pretty much calling back all my customers."

Things weren't completely smooth on the union's side either, Cicinelli said.

The union filed a grievance with Cadillac of Naperville on Monday after the dealership allegedly told its union employees that it would keep the temporary workers it hired during the strike. A representative from the dealership did not respond to a request for comment.

amarotti@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @AllyMarotti
Avi Fox, owner of Rosenblums World of Judaica in Skokie, holds a Rosh Hashana Seder plate, which is divided into sections for apple slices in honey, sweet pomegranate, gourd, beet, leek, black-eyed peas, dates and a fish head. (Jim Young / Chicago Tribune)

Isn't a Seder plate supposed to be for Passover? In spring? When matzoh and horseradish make it onto the table?

Guess what. It turns out that Passover isn't the only Jewish holiday with a Seder plate.

Advertisement

"Each of these fruits and vegetables has a special meaning," said Avrom Fox, owner of Rosenblum's World of Judaica in Skokie, who is describing a special plate, divided into sections for apple slices in honey, sweet pomegranate, gourd, beet, leek, black-eyed peas, dates and a fish head.

"I love the idea of a fish head," Rabbi Steven Lowenstein, of Glencoe's Am Shalom, wrote in an email. The symbolism? "We are at the head of the year and not the tail."

Advertisement

In Hebrew, Rosh means head; ha means the; Shanah means year.

Can you really enjoy a meal with a fish staring at you? Will that really pass your endurance test, or that of your guests? Rabbi Phyllis Sommer, also of Am Shalom, said she knows of people who choose candy  Swedish fish  to represent the fish head.

Although the Seder plate is relatively new, the Rosh Hashana Seder is an ancient custom, dating back 2000 years, Rabbi Baruch Tuman, of Chicago's Torah Hub, wrote in an email.

"It comes from the Babylonian Talmud, Keritot 6a, Horayot 12a, which brings the opinion of the sage, Abaye, who says that now that 'simonim' (signs) have been deemed significant then a person should accustom oneself on Rosh Hashana to eat gourds, fenugreek, leeks, beets, and dates."

"It became established for people to eat these foods," Tuman continued, "and find symbolic connections to the names of the food." This gets very complicated because some foods were seen as omens with mystical powers; others, a subtle way of asking God to fulfill their needs.

So, pomegranate. At the meal, the sweet pomegranate is held and a prayer recited, asking that "we be filled with mitzvot (good deeds) like a pomegranate (is filled with seeds)."

Eating these foods on Rosh Hashana may be an old custom, but what is new is the Seder plate.

Where did this begin?

Advertisement

Eat. Watch. Do. Weekly What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. >

"It's recent," said Danny Levine, fourth generation owner of J. Levine Co. in New York. "Israeli artists were asking 'What can I make to bring to market?'" Meaning, what kinds of ceremonial objects? At first Levine sold a handful; today he orders well over a hundred before the holiday. It's something that began with a marketing objective, yet, he continued, "As the world gets crazier, people are looking for more spirituality and significance to our daily lives."

The Seder plate comes in glass, a combo of stainless steel and wood, or ceramic. It's decorated with Hebrew and English text, pomegranate designs, or apple motifs. Depending on your geography, if you're Ashkenazic or Sephardic, the variety and number of food items can vary.

"Most people have apple with honey," Fox said, "and recite a short prayer alluding to the symbolism of an apple sweetened with honey, the wish for a sweet new year ahead.

"It's becoming more in vogue to do this today," he added, talking about Rosh Hashana evolving into a festive meal, like Passover, which is characterized by the eating of symbolic foods displayed on a ceremonial object. "In a time in the world where there's such a lack of moral guidance, it's a nice custom to enhance the meal. We need to be brought together."

Find it

Look for Rosh Hashana Seder plates at Rosenblum's World of Judaica, 9153 Gross Point Road, 773-262-1700, www.alljudaica.com.

Advertisement

This article has been updated with details about the origin of the Rosh Hashana Seder plate.

[ Lamb for Rosh Hashana continues family's tradition  ]

[ Ring in the Jewish New Year with these Rosh Hashana specials  ]

[ Rosh Hashana tablescape tips  ]






Rosh Hashana menus are ripe with foods symbolizing hopes for a sweet, successful year ahead, from rounds of challah bread to apples dipped in honey to pomegranates, whose arils are said to equal the number of commandments in the Torah. Fish, too, can be a delicious and symbolic addition to the two-day holiday, which begins at sundown Sept. 24.

Fish symbolize fertility, prosperity and abundance, said Laura Frankel, executive chef of Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership in Chicago. Eating foods rich with meaning is an important Rosh Hashana tradition.

Advertisement

"It's the whole practice of eating our intentions or hopes for the year," said Frankel, who is also author of "Jewish Cooking for All Seasons." "It's kind of like eating beans at the New Year in the non-Jewish world."

Even a fish head serves as a reminder, said Denise Phillips, the Britain-based author of "The Gourmet Jewish Cookbook" and host of jewishcookery.com.

Advertisement

"We want to be seen as the head and not the tail," she said.

Baked sea bass stuffed with olives, herbs

Prep: 20 minutesCook: 35-40 minutesMakes: 8 servings

This recipe comes from "Jewish Traditional Cooking" by Ruth Joseph and Simon Round. They suggest you ask the fishmonger to gut the fish, scrape off all the scales and remove the large backbone. You can, the authors note, substitute 3 to 4 tablespoons of white wine for the lemon juice. If you prefer Asian flavors for the dish, omit the olives, capers and dill, and replace with a dash of soy sauce, a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger and plenty of chopped cilantro.

Herb stuffing:

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup each, chopped: fresh flat-leaf parsley, fresh dill

Advertisement

3 tablespoons drained capers

1 egg

1/2 cup pitted olives

1 cup fresh breadcrumbs

Juice and grated zest

of 1 lemon or lime

Advertisement

1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Fish:

1 whole sea bass, 3 to 4 pounds, or 4 smaller sea bass, about 1 pound each

1 lemon, thinly sliced

Olive oil for drizzling

Advertisement

1Heat the oven to 400 degrees. For the stuffing, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion; cook until tender and just starting to color.

2Meanwhile, puree the herbs, capers and egg in a food processor until smooth. Scrape into a mixing bowl. Chop or pulse the olives; add to the herb mixture. Add the breadcrumbs, cooked onions, lemon zest and juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

3Fill the cavity of the fish with the stuffing. Line a baking sheet with a double layer of foil; arrange lemon slices down the center. (If using multiple fish, wrap each separately.) Place fish on top; drizzle with olive oil. Wrap up the fish to form a tight parcel; bake, 5 minutes. Turn temperature down to 325; bake until the fish is tender and flakes when poked with a fork, 30-35 minutes. Unwrap fish; carefully scrape away skin. Arrange on a serving dish and serve.

Nutrition information per serving: 273 calories, 8 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 97 mg cholesterol, 13 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein, 530 mg sodium, 2 g fiber

Tomato, olive and fish tagine

Prep: 30 minutes

Cook: 40 minutes

Makes: 6 servings

Advertisement

This dish from Laura Frankel, executive chef of Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership can be used as a first course or entree. The sauce can be made and refrigerated, covered, for up to 2 days.

2 to 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, about

1 large red onion, thinly sliced

2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced

Advertisement

4 large tomatoes, coarsely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

 teaspoon each: cinnamon, ground coriander, cumin

Pinch of saffron

 cup pitted, chopped Kalamata olives

Advertisement

Freshly cracked pepper

Eat. Watch. Do. Weekly What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. >

2 pounds halibut or favorite lean fish, cut into 3 ounce pieces

Fresh chopped herbs, pomegranate arils (seeds)

1Heat a large skillet, lightly coated with olive oil (1 to 2 tablespoons), over medium heat. Add the eggplant; season with salt to taste. Brown the eggplant on both sides; set aside.

2Add 1 to 2 tablespoons oil to the pan; add the onion and peppers, seasoning with salt to taste. Cook until lightly caramelized and softened.

3Add back the eggplant along with the tomatoes, garlic and spices. Reduce the heat to a simmer; cook until the tomatoes have released their juices and the mixture has cooked to a sauce consistency, about 15 minutes. Stir in the olives; season with pepper and more salt, if needed.

Advertisement

4Add the fish to the pan; cook until the fish has cooked through and is opaque and firm, about 10 minutes. Garnish with herbs, pomegranate arils and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Serve with steamed rice.

Nutrition information per serving: 289 calories, 9 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 91 mg cholesterol, 16 g carbohydrates, 37 g protein, 377 mg sodium, 5 g fiber



wdaley@tribune.com
Actress Amber Tamblyn arrives at the TCL Chinese Theatre for the premiere of Netflix's "Arrested Development" Season 4 held on April 29, 2013 in Hollywood, Calif. (Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

Amber Tamblyn has worked in Hollywood since she was a child.

Tamblyn first gained fame as a 16-year-old actress on the daytime soap opera "General Hospital." From there, she scooped up roles in hot shows such as "House," "Two and a Half Men" and "Inside Amy Schumer." On the path to becoming one of Hollywood's young stars, the now 34-year-old Tamblyn struggled against the sexism she said pervades the industry.

Advertisement

"I have been afraid of speaking out or asking things of men in positions of power for years," the actress wrote in an essay in the New York Times this weekend. "What I have experienced as an actress working in a business whose business is to objectify women is frightening."

The most public example occurred last week, when actor James Woods called her a liar on Twitter, which she discussed in the essay - though she was quick to point out that the rift was emblematic of a larger issue, which she dubbed "Woods Culture." "This is less about what just happened with Woods and more about Woods Culture and how we can end it," she wrote on Twitter.

Advertisement

It began when Woods tweeted about "Call Me by Your Name," an upcoming movie centered on a romantic relationship between a 17-year-old boy and a 24-year-old man.

"As they quietly chip away the last barriers of decency," Woods wrote about the movie.

Actor Armie Hammer, who stars in the film, defended it by tweeting back at Woods, "Didn't you date a 19 year old when you were 60. . .. . ..?"

Tamblyn joined in, claiming that Woods "tried to pick me and my friend up at a restaurant once. He wanted to take us to Vegas. 'I'm 16' I said. 'Even better' he said."

Woods immediately denied the accusations, saying in a tweet that was liked nearly 2,000 times that Tamblyn was lying. "The first is illegal. The second is a lie," he wrote on Twitter.

"Calling me a liar, James?" Tamblyn tweeted back the next afternoon. "This is now far from over. That I can promise."

"What would I get out of accusing this person of such an action, almost 20 years after the fact? Notoriety, power or respect?" Tamblyn wrote, adding that she is "more than confident with my quota of all three."

She claimed the experience resurfaced some unpleasant memories, and sent her "back to all the days I've spent in the offices of men; of feeling unsure, uneasy, questioned and disbelieved, no matter the conversation."

Advertisement

Specifically, she recalled an experience she had when starring in a television show when she was 21 years old. As she described it, a crew member began appearing at her home unannounced, trespassing in her trailer and staring at her while she tried to work.

She felt unsafe, so she nervously met with the show's producer to report it. According to Tamblyn, he replied, "Well, there are two sides to every story."

"For women in America who come forward with stories of harassment, abuse and sexual assault, there are not two sides to every story, however noble that principle might seem," she wrote. "Women do not get to have a side. They get to have an interrogation."

Tamblyn pointed out that between 2006 to 2010, 65 percent of sexual assaults were unreported, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.

"What's the point, if you won't be believed?" she wrote.

She added that this is particularly problematic when the man in question is powerful or famous. And she's done keeping quiet, she wrote.

Advertisement

"The women I know, myself included, are done, though, playing the credentials game. We are learning that the more we open our mouths, the more we become a choir," she wrote. "And the more we are a choir, the more the tune is forced to change."

Tamblyn also published an open letter to Woods in Teen Vogue last week in which she asked the actor to "look in the mirror" and consider why he called her a liar.

She added that "The saddest part of this story doesn't even concern me but concerns the universal woman's story. The nation's harmful narrative of disbelieving women first, above all else."

Woods did not speak out publicly about either of Tamblyn's letters, but many people shared their support of the actress on Twitter.

"Snap snap snap, this woman is telling some serious truth," tweeted actress Olivia Wilde.

RELATED STORIES:

Advertisement

Actress Amber Tamblyn lets Hillary Clinton reveal her baby daughter's name

President Trump omnipresent over Emmy Awards ceremony

Judge sets date for Cosby retrial on sexual assault charges







Watch the latest movie trailers.

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)
Did a 16-year-old housemaid named Grace Marks kill her lecherous employer and his housekeeper in 1843? Or was the impoverished Irish immigrant to Canada merely the stablehand's unwitting accessory?

Or was she possessed by the ghost of another?

Advertisement

Those are a couple of the questions bubbling around "Alias Grace," the 1996 Margaret Atwood novel based on the real-life murders in what then was known as Upper Canada and that we now would describe as the Toronto area. Another is less causal and more ethical: Was Grace, whose mother died on the voyage to Canada, such a constant victim of neglect and abuse that no absolutist notions of guilt and innocence could fairly be applied to her case?

If you watched "The Handmaid's Tale" win five Emmys on Sunday night, you'll know that Atwood, and her brand of feminist Southern Ontario Gothic literature, has enjoyed a huge surge in popularity. Rivendell, a theater that long has focused on the work of women, has managed to snag the official world premiere of Jennifer Blackmer's skillful dramatic adaptation. (The CBC currently is adapting the novel as a miniseries, coming your way on Netflix.) Arriving close to curtain Friday night at Rivendell on Ridge Avenue, I found a line of standbys in the lobby all coveting my seat. "Alias Grace" already looks like a hit.

Advertisement

And fair enough. It's a gripping true-crime narrative (there are shades of "Handmaid's Tale" and "The Crucible") and, although the staging stutters in Act 2, never firmly deals with the sexualized complexity of the narrative, and thus hardly achieves the dramatic tension this level of material surely could, director Karen Kessler's production, which was workshopped at Ball State University, features a killer central performance (replete with flawless Irish accent) from the richly nuanced Ashley Neal.

Grace Marks is a tough assignment  she's a likable protagonist, buffeted from one lousy situation to the next, spirit unbowed. But for the piece to work, you also have to believe she'd be perfectly capable of a double murder.

You get all that from the empathetic-yet-daunting character forged here by the terrific Neal: She takes some real risks without ever fully showing her Grace's hand, and thus Grace's powerful female voice rings loud, clear and assertively in my head as I write, which is, I think, exactly as Atwood intends.

So does that of her friend Mary Whitney, here infused with equal vitality and guileless earnestness by the excellent Ayssette Munoz.

She's creepy, too. And so is Maura Kidwell, who plays the ill-fated housekeeper.

The real Grace Marks was imprisoned for 30 years and then suddenly exonerated and released, reasons unknown (as is her ultimate fate). Atwood came up with the fictional device of a prison psychological examination conducted by a dubious doctor (played by Steve Haggard), while the equally self-serving warden's wife (Jane Baxter Miller) watches over the proceedings, pursuing her own agenda.

This premiere hasn't come up with a viable visual metaphor  the design doesn't connect powerfully enough with the disruptions inherent in the material and while many of the individual scenes are strong, the production never allows them to build and intensify. The novel suggests that the doctor examining Grace is compromised by his own desires and thus becomes the latest in a long line of men to let her down, even as he maybe works on her behalf. But that's all very vague and underexplored in this staging.

Still, Atwood is Atwood, the actresses in the piece all are formidable, and this is very deft dramatization from Blackmer.

Advertisement

Around me, no one seemed to move a muscle.

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.

cjones5@chicagotribune.com

Review: "Alias Grace" (2.5 stars)

When: Through Nov. 4

Where: Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, 5779 N. Ridge Ave.

Advertisement

Running time: 2 hours

Tickets: $38 at 773-334-7728 or www.RivendellTheatre.org

Enjoy someone else's drama A great theater city deserves a great theater critic. Enter Chris Jones. Subscribe now and get 4 weeks of full access for only 99.

[ RELATED: In Denver, Disney's 'Frozen' musical plays it too safe with Elsa and Anna  ]

[ Sing away your troubles: 'Five Guys Named Moe' a musical celebration of Louis Jordan  ]

[ 'The Heavens Are Hung in Black' is a play set during Lincoln's darkest hours  ]







Watch the latest movie trailers.
The talk Monday on the Chicago set of the new Showtime series "The Chi" was all about the historic Emmy earned by series creator and Chicago native Lena Waithe, who Sunday became the first African American woman to win for comedy writing for her work on "Master of None."

Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, one of the main "Chi" cast members, was on location at a West Side elementary school and in a Tribune interview called her win "massive. I said this to her earlier, the way she's broken through is so important, this is for little girls from the South Side of Chicago.

Advertisement

"It even took Lena by surprise that she was the first African-American woman to be nominated for comedy writing  and to win. Chicago never ceases to amaze me, that a little girl from Chicago would grow up to be the first African-American First Lady (Michelle Obama), and now Lena is breaking through for television. And it's not a man that's making that history but a woman."

"This drama ('The Chi') is going to defy expectations because people look at her and see a comedy writer," Mwine said.

Advertisement

Accepting her Emmy for comedy writing on the "Master of None" Netflix series, a show created by Aziz Ansari, Waithe thanked the Television Academy for "embracing a little Indian boy from South Carolina and a little queer black girl from the South Side of Chicago." Her Emmy was for the semi-autobiographical episode "Thanksgiving," which is based in part on her coming-out story with her own family.

"I grew up at 79th Street, right off the Dan Ryan," Waithe told the Tribune last year. For junior high and high school, she moved with her mother to Evanston. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, she has been based in Los Angeles, where she worked as an assistant for director Gina Prince-Bythewood and later with director Ava DuVernay before landing a job as a writer on the Fox series "Bones."

The Emmy win raises Waithe's profile, but "The Chi" is bound to do more. An ensemble drama centering on the lives of African-Americans on the South Side of Chicago, the show has been filming throughout the summer and is expected to premiere in early 2018. Waithe is the creator and an executive producer alongside fellow Chicago native Common, who released a statement Monday basking in her win that read in part: "Lena's win touched me in many ways. I personally have witnessed her hard work and dedication to her craft. She is a unique and special talent. Her historic win will open doors for the communities she represents."

Regarding her ambitions for "The Chi," she said: "My family still lives in Chicago, my mother, my sister, my nephew, my family is there. So even though I am not living there, I feel very close to it and I visit very often  So what I wanted to do was write a show that would follow multiple black men from different walks of life with different goals and different ideas of what it means to be a man, and what it looks like trying to survive the South Side of Chicago."

nmetz@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @Nina_Metz

[ RELATED: 'Veep' and 'The Handmaid's Tale' win top Emmy Award prizes  ]

[ How TV shows like 'Chicago P.D.' portray Chicago gun violence  ]

[ Showtime picks up Chicago-set drama series 'The Chi'  ]







Watch the latest movie trailers.

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)
R. Richter, 4th Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade, and Sgt. Daniel E. Spencer wait with the body of a comrade, in an image from the PBS documentary series "The Vietnam War." (National Archives and Records Administration)

Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, who a decade ago co-directed "The War," about World War II, have now made "The Vietnam War."

Written  like that series and other Burns projects running back to "The Civil War"  by Geoffrey C. Ward, it begins Sunday on PBS, with 10 episodes running some 18 hours.

Advertisement

The series is both long, and somehow not long enough. Vietnam, a conflict kept alight by official lies, naive idealism and a shark-like inability to go any way but forward, was as deep a well as the country has ever gone down; half a century later, we have still not climbed out.

There are many good reasons to watch "The Vietnam War." Unless you are very well informed, it will teach you things you do not know and correct things you thought you knew. It may be, if you are of those generations for whom the words "the war" call to mind only Iraq or Afghanistan, that you know nothing of Vietnam at all. But there are lessons in this misadventure worth learning regarding the crooked course of human events and the collision of national interests and individual lives. Its multiplicity of voices, from both sides of the war and the war at home, might make you a more thoughtful, less judgmental person in the end if you pay attention.

Advertisement

And you should pay attention.

"It was so divisive," one commentator remembers. "It's like living in a family with an alcoholic father  'Sssh, we don't talk about that.' Our country did that with Vietnam."

Still, this is not the first time television has looked at Vietnam; indeed, it was the first "television war," played out in millions of living rooms on the nightly news. Burns' project is not even the first long examination; "Vietnam: A Television History" ran 13 hours on PBS in 1983.

But Burns is America's Documentarian; there is a built-in weight to his work  not appropriate to every subject he's tackled, but it works for war.

Burns' reputation gives him access to people and pictures. He has the drive to be definitive, which is of course impossible. As huge as "The Vietnam War" is, parts of the story are left unexplored; for example, it barely touches the ways in which American forces interacted with the civilian society of South Vietnam, and how one might have changed the other. Subjects that might have whole documentaries of their own  drugs, the children some soldiers left behind  are dutifully noted and dropped.

Gen. William Westmoreland confers with President Lyndon B. Johnson in April 1968, as seen in "The Vietnam War," a documentary series by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick. (Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library, Audiovisual Archives)

But if there is never another series on the subject, this one will serve posterity very well. It is something to reckon with: fact-filled, fascinating, infuriating, dreadful, beautiful, nerve-wracking and numbing. There are so many bodies, burning and blown apart, that they fail to register after awhile. (It's possible that we have seen too much artfully simulated screen-glamorized violence to fully appreciate the real thing; in any case, this is not a show for young eyes.) But as the series moves on past the war to passages of reflection and reconciliation, it grows moving to a degree unusual in Burns' work; whatever you have managed not to feel in the preceding hours comes back to get you.

The story goes back to its French colonial origins, with a young Ho Chi Minh looking for Western support for Vietnamese self-determination, jumping ahead every so often to remind us that an American story is coming. (There is a sequence at the beginning where the footage is actually run backward, back through Presidents Nixon, Johnson, Kennedy, Eisenhower and Truman, with bombs returning to planes, Buddhist monks and draft cards emerging from flames.)

Given the scope of the subject and the size of their series, and how many participants in the war and the war at home are still available, Burns and Novick use relatively few commentators to move their story along. But each has personal experience of Vietnam; there are no remote scholarly voices, but a well-chosen cast of soldiers, citizens, politicians, protesters and reporters.

Advertisement

As is his wont, Burns threads personal journeys through the history that shaped their course, which grows more chaotic and out of control, and a conflict few Americans paid mind to in the early '60s gives way in the '70s to massacres at My Lai and Kent State.

Seen from afar, Vietnam may have been for nothing, or less than nothing; Burns and his collaborators clearly regard it as tragic. (For North Vietnam, of course, it was a successful war for national liberation and reunification.) But up close, history is only a way of describing in a general, theoretical way many individual experiences, each of which is beyond theory or argument, and all of which are true.

'The Vietnam War'

Where: KOCE

When: 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday; concludes Sept. 28.

Rating: TV-MA-LV (may be unsuitable for children under the age of 17 with advisories for coarse language and violence)

Advertisement

robert.lloyd@latimes.com

Follow Robert Lloyd on Twitter @LATimesTVLloyd

ALSO

Ken Burns and Lynn Novick untangle the complexities of the Vietnam War

A long and sober look at Prohibition history
Protesters gather at the Federal Building at Congress Parkway and Clark Street in Chicago on Sept. 5, 2017, to protest President Donald Trump's action against the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program. Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune

Thursday morning, speaking to reporters before surveying hurricane damage in Florida, President Donald Trump pushed back against Democratic leaders who claimed there was a deal on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative.

However, he said he was "fairly close" to a deal with congressional leaders to preserve protections for young immigrants living illegally in America, also known as 'Dreamers.' He insisted on "massive border security" as part of any agreement and added that his promised wall along the U.S.-Mexico border would "come later."

"We're working on a plan subject to getting massive border controls. We're working on a plan for DACA. People want to see that happen," Trump said."I think we're fairly close but we have to get massive border security," he added.

Advertisement

Wednesday night, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York had announced in a joint statement that they had reached an agreement with Trump to provide legal status for the 800,000 immigrants under DACA.

"We agreed to enshrine the protections of DACA into law quickly, and to work out a package of border security, excluding the wall, that's acceptable to both sides," Pelosi and Schumer had said in a joint statement.

The White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, later said that "while DACA and border security were both discussed, excluding the wall was certainly not agreed to."

Advertisement

Before speaking to reporters Thursday morning, Trump tweeted saying:No deal was made last night on DACA. Massive border security would have to be agreed to in exchange for consent. Would be subject to vote.

Schumer and Pelosi responded to the President's tweets and said that his words were "not inconsistent with the agreement reached last night," and that while there was "no final deal," the president had said he would "support enshrining DACA protections into law, and encourage the House and Senate to act."

They added that details on border security needed to be negotiated, that both sides agreed "the wall would not be any part of this agreement" and that Trump said he would pursue the wall later.

Last week he had announced that his administration was rescinding the program and gave Congress six months to come up with a legislative fix.

At the same time, Trump expressed sympathy for the hundreds of Dreamers.

"Does anybody really want to throw out good, educated and accomplished young people who have jobs, some serving in the military, really?" Trump wrote. "They have been in our country for many years through no fault of their own - brought in by parents at a young age. Plus BIG border security."
Craig Venter has got a deal for you. For $25,000, he'll sell you a complete genome sequence, a full-body MRI scan, a cardio CT scan, bone densitometry, cognitive testing and more, all in the hope of discovering a lurking tumor or brain abnormality -- and nipping it in the bud.

"We're driving a medical revolution," says Venter of his latest startup, Human Longevity Inc., or HLI. "We have sequencing that's better than anybody else in the world. We have the most accurate data."

Advertisement

Venter, one of the best known scientists of the 21st century for his role in mapping the human genome, has been striking that kind of lofty note a lot lately, and investors are loving it. The four-year-old company has raised as much as $500 million, including $200 million this year, giving it a valuation of about $1.9 billion, according to data provider PitchBook. Plans are in the works for yet another round of venture capital before ultimately going public, according to Venter.

The problem is Venter's promises are ringing hollow for a growing chorus of critics. Conversations with more than a dozen current and former employees, customers and medical professionals depict a company that may prove unable to keep up with its founder's ambitions. Some doctors contend that such comprehensive testing isn't particularly useful, and even those who do think so say rivals may outpace Venter. Competing government-backed efforts in the U.S. and the U.K., for instance, threaten to overtake HLI in the race to collect massive amounts of the population's genetic and clinical data, a key proposition for the company's business success.

Advertisement

"Is HLI going to stay far enough ahead that these projects don't make it obsolete?" says Daniel MacArthur, co-director of medical and population genetics at the Broad Institute of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Venter has no doubt about that. He says 40 percent of the 1,000 or so customers who have taken the test, called the Health Nucleus, have learned they have a "serious disease." Some come from China, through a Shanghai-based medical tourism startup called Quantum Clinics, which partnered with HLI in 2016. Wealthy Chinese, willing to pay out of pocket, are attracted to HLI's white-glove service and attentive care, according to Chief Executive Officer Lu Yi, who said Quantum will send about 50 Chinese patients for testing over the following year.

Yet as Venter touts that 40 percent disease-discovery rate, a paper posted online earlier this year by HLI scientists said age-related diseases requiring "prompt" medical attention have been found in just 8 percent of participants. Venter says the difference in numbers is because "it depends on what you count." He includes findings like pre-diabetes that would lead a person to change his or her lifestyle.

Some doctors doubt the need for such extensive tests. "I don't like the idea of selling a product by scaring people," says Ethan Weiss, a cardiologist at the University of California San Francisco. Weiss looked over a list of conditions that Venter said had been caught by the test. He took issue with cases of dilated left atrium, which can be a predictor of cardiac risks. "Maybe your risk of developing atrial fibrillation over a lifetime is higher, but it's not clear today that this is valuable information. Your heart's not going to explode."

For a customer who discovers a dangerous, unknown tumor, there's no question that the test would be priceless. But for those who don't receive clear-cut findings, the volume of data generated by the test can be overwhelming.

"I got a 400-page report and no one knew what to do with it," said Emily Melton, a partner at the venture firm DFJ, who took the test and shared the results with her doctors. DFJ has invested in HLI. Steve Jurvetson, who led DFJ's participation, declined to comment.

Venter says the problem isn't with his company's reports, but rather with the medical community, which is untrained and can't keep up with his technology.

HLI, at any rate, is far short of selling the number of tests it needs to generate the database that will sustain the business. The company's goal is to gather a massive data set of both genetic information and clinical features -- from brain scans to gut bacteria profiles -- and discover new insights about how genes drive the aging process. Those insights could then be sold to pharma companies to make drugs. To arrive at such a level of understanding, particularly for complicated diseases, hundreds of thousands or even millions of samples would be needed to power the studies.

Advertisement

Skeptics doubt that Venter can get there before massive, government-backed efforts, which are embarking on similar projects. "Over the next three years, the U.K. Biobank will sequence and make public exome or genome data from 500,000 well-phenotyped people. And over the same time frame, the U.S. 'All of Us' program will hopefully sequence more than 1 million," MacArthur says.

To ramp up its customer base, HLI has resorted to slashing prices. In May, it created a $7,500 option with reduced services, then added a $4,900 offering for just the genome and whole body MRI. The website has been offering a limited time promotion of $2,500. Venter says he's working on signing contracts with large employers and expects to have "literally tens of thousands" of customers through those corporate partnerships.

As the race heats up, Venter's bolder statements have irked some of the company's current and former employees, who agreed to speak on the condition of anonymity. Two former employees described chaotic early days where the company was working on as many as 10 different projects, from forensics to a search engine for genomic information. Multiple cancer projects were underway at one point, including a service that would sequence a patients' tumor tissue and compare it to normal tissue. There was also a short-lived excursion into pediatric rare diseases.

That's "a fair criticism," said Venter, who stepped aside as CEO in January when HLI hired Cynthia Collins. He remains executive chairman of the board and speaks for the company. He added that some trial and error was necessary to figure out where the startup would be most successful. "We're concentrating on our uniqueness and probably have eliminated 100 or so of our diverse test projects."

The potential gap between Venter's unbridled enthusiasm and his startup's actual capabilities spilled into the public this month when a paper was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. In it, HLI scientists said they could use a DNA sample to accurately identify an individual in a line-up of 10 people about 80 percent of the time. Most of the identification power came from predicting the gender, race and age. The scientists also used the information to render a facial image.

Jason Piper, one of the 28 authors, who had left HLI prior to the study's publication, took to Twitter to criticize the paper. "Don't get me started about how terrible those faces are," he said, arguing that the images generated by HLI's algorithms were simply the average face of a given ethnicity, so naturally, many people would look like the average.

Advertisement

Two other authors of the paper, who asked not to be named because they weren't authorized to speak for the company, said the shortcomings of facial predictions were due to the small sample size of 1,000 participants and the images would improve with more data.

Meanwhile, Venter was telling media outlets, "When you have the whole genome, we can predict a photograph." That led to headlines like this one, on San Diego's KPBS website, trumpeting: "These San Diego Scientists Can Predict How You Look Using Only Your Anonymous DNA."

When told about Venter's statement, another author of the study paused. "Well, there's marketing and there's the truth," he said. "You need to separate those things."

Bloomberg's Li Hui contributed to this report.

RELATED STORIES:

Selena Gomez's kidney transplant: Young, minority women disproportionately affected by lupus

Advertisement

Surgeons play big role in women's choices for breast cancer care

What a month of ditching alcohol taught me






Mayor Rahm Emanuel acknowledged Monday what pundits have been saying for months  that Chicagoans' disdain for President Donald Trump is making Emanuel's job easier.

Speaking in New York at a climate change conference of big city mayors, Emanuel pointed to the environment as an issue on which it was not hard for him to stand against Trump, who in June announced his intention to pull the U.S. out of the Paris climate accord.

Advertisement

"On climate change, at least for a mayor in a city like Chicago  where [Trump] got 10 percent [Trump actually got 12.5 percent of the vote in Chicago] six months ago and is probably now trailing at about 4 percent  fighting the president, if you're asking me from a political standpoint, is easier."

Emanuel added, "Second is, he's on the wrong side of history, and third, he doesn't really have the policy analysis to deal with the problem. So on every measure you want to do, he's short of 50 percent."

Advertisement

The mayor  who appeared on a panel alongside Austin mayor Steve Adler and Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson  had been public enemy No. 1 for Chicago's left-wing activists in the waning days of Barack Obama's presidency. Emanuel has arguably improved his position since Trump's election, despite the president's frequent shots at Chicago's violence.

Often at his most comfortable on the national stage, Emanuel noted that Trump's opposition to climate-change science made his job harder "on a policy standpoint," but also used Monday's event to tout his recent federal court victory against Trump over the city's so-called "sanctuary city" status.

"He said he was going to be OK on dreamers and would fight cities on sanctuary cities," Emanuel said of Trump's immigration policy. But, he said, what has actually happened "is the inverse of what [Trump] thought he was going to be doing six months ago. Just as one political observation, in case anyone's interested!"

kjanssen@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @kimjnews
Rebeca Perrone is the county's first indigent coordinator, akin to a social worker whose clients are no longer living. Perrone works in the basement of the Medical Examiner's office helping families lay their loved ones to rest. (Antonio Perez and Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

The baby girl was a stranger at her own burial, abandoned by those closest to her in life and death.

She lived less than two hours, dropped from the eighth-floor window of an Uptown high-rise by her teen mother, who had kept the pregnancy a secret.

Advertisement

At All Saints Catholic Cemetery in Des Plaines last week, a crowd of mourners placed pink roses atop a tiny white casket to honor the short life of an infant they never knew.

Among them was one young woman who has attended the funerals of hundreds of unclaimed adults, children and babies. Rebeca Perrone is Cook County's first indigent coordinator, a role comparable to a social worker for the dead.

Advertisement

She was hired in 2015, amid a larger overhaul of the medical examiner's office after a scandalous backlog at the morgue came to light. Graphic photos several years ago revealed bodies stacked on top of one another in a crowded cooler, some with their limbs exposed.

Now it is part of Perrone's mission to ensure a dignified final resting place for those forsaken in death.

"It shows my compassion, being there for them," she said.

Her office shares a wall with the cooler, which doesn't bother her, except when the temperature gets a little chilly. A space heater under the desk warms her as she goes through the list of names of remains that haven't been claimed, calling and sending letters to potential next of kin, hoping to reunite them with their loved ones.

Often family members already know why she's contacting them.

Other times, "I break the news to them that their son, daughter, father is here," she said. "And they didn't know."

Perrone, who is 30 and grew up in Algonquin, strives to be comforting yet professional in explaining the process to the grieving: Relatives have 30 days to retrieve the body or the county will have it cremated. Cremated remains can be released for $100  a fee that is sometimes waived in cases of financial hardship  and are kept in storage in the basement of the medical examiner's West Side office for up to a year, when they are buried by the county.

Perrone handles some 700 cases a year. Most are adults who died of natural causes, and usually family members make arrangements.

Advertisement

She considers it a success every time remains are collected by next of kin.

"I'll have a cardboard box of remains in my arms and I'm like, 'Well, George is going home today; his family came to pick him up,'" she said. "And that's a good feeling."

Cook County Indigent Coordinator Rebeca Perrone stands outside the Office of the Medical Examiner in Chicago on Sept. 6, 2017. It is part of Perrone's mission to ensure a dignified final resting place for those forsaken in death. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

'Everybody is your neighbor'

Perrone never sees the bodies, including the abandoned baby girl buried last week.

A neighbor found the newborn on the grass, naked and bloody but breathing. He wrapped her in his sweatshirt and then two baby blankets retrieved from his home as he waited for emergency personnel,but the infant died shortly after at a nearby hospital on Nov. 12, 2015.

"I can't put a face or an injury to the person I'm reading about, the person I'm talking to their family about," Perrone said.

Advertisement

Yet she has an intimate knowledge of where many strangers are spending eternity.

A woman came in recently to pick up her son on the one-year anniversary of his death. She was planning to scatter his ashes in the Pacific Ocean, as he'd wanted.

One time, cremated remains were split between two friends, to be scattered on opposite coasts.

The job, which pays about $56,000 a year, might sound macabre, but it felt like an ideal fit for Perrone. After studying sociology and criminal justice at Loyola University, she worked for the Indiana Department of Child Services, investigating abuse and neglect claims. A part of her longed to be a detective, but not necessarily a police officer.

Some of her cases do require a bit of sleuthing.

Earlier this year, a man's body was found floating in the Chicago River, identified by fingerprints but with no known relatives. He had served time in prison decades ago, so Perrone began going through visitor and call logs from 1990.

Advertisement

"I'm never going to find anybody; these are way old names," she recalled thinking to herself.

It turned out that the first name she came across was a woman who had several children with the man. His kids had just seen him a few days before his death and wondered why he wasn't returning calls.

Some cases are eerie.

Over the summer, Perrone spoke with a grieving widow who didn't have funds to make arrangements for her husband. She gave authorization for him to be cremated and made plans to pick up his remains. Just two days later, the wife's name came up on the daily ledger of new deaths.

"And then I go back and listen to her recording on my phone," Perrone said. "That's crazy. I just talked to her and now she's here."

Another time, an elderly woman passed away and her daughter traveled here from out of state to make arrangements. Then the daughter died unexpectedly while in Chicago, leaving her two children  one an adult and one a minor  to make arrangements for both women.

Advertisement

Rebeca Perrone, indigent coordinator for the Cook County medical examiner's office, attends the burial of Ariyah Mikayla Hoover and Miriam Jane Uddin at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines on Sept. 13, 2017. Perrone helps coordinate burial services for people who go unclaimed by family. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

"So those poor kids were coming up here to bury or cremate their grandma, and then their mom dies too," Perrone said.

Twice Perrone has come across the names of people she happened to know growing up and had to notify their loved ones. After each of those phone calls, she wept.

The job has taught her to keep in touch with her own friends and relatives.

"Everybody is your neighbor," she said. "Your neighbor down the street that doesn't get out, or you only see him come out in the morning for the mail. Your aunt, who you may not talk to that often. Everyone is going to die at some point. You would never want to die alone yourself. ... Reach out to people."

Rest in peace

There are times when the dead have no one who can care for them.

Advertisement

When relatives are found but say they can't afford to make arrangements, Perrone tries to give information on various types of services that might be more affordable.

Some religious organizations bury members of their faith, and government agencies can provide burials for veterans.

In the case of the baby girl from Uptown, the mother relinquished the remains to the local nonprofit Rest in His Arms, which provides free funeral and burial services for abandoned babies.

About 50 mourners attended her interment on Wednesday, the grave site decorated with clusters of pink balloons and flowers. Rest in His Arms had also buried a second infant girl at the same time, whose body was discovered in June in a plastic garbage bag inside a shed in south suburban Dolton.

Sometimes the deceased have no living relatives or they refuse to make arrangements.

On a recent weekday, hundreds of boxes of cremated remains, marked by handwritten identification numbers, rested on shelves in the basement, waiting.

Advertisement

"There are a lot of people down there," Perrone said. "It really hits home that there are this many people either (whose) family couldn't take care of their disposition or ... were not willing to do it."

In 2014, the medical examiner's office began cremating indigent remains, which now costs $145 per body.

That doesn't include unidentified bodies. Those are not cremated, in case new information or technology emerges that could help with identification.

But for those whose names are known, cremation is more sanitary and dignified than keeping bodies long term, said Dr. Ponni Arunkumar, Cook County's chief medical examiner.

Thank-you cards sent to Cook County Indigent Coordinator Rebeca Perrone. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Shifting to cremation was one of many recent reforms aimed at preventing the cooler from again becoming overcrowded. Former Chief Medical Examiner Stephen Cina was credited with transforming the once-beleaguered office, but resigned in 2016, citing the stress that came with leading that turnaround.

A new cooler with more storage room began operation in 2014, with an automated crane and barcoding system that allowed workers to keep better track of remains. An email now goes out to top staff with a daily census count of the cooler, which always has to keep enough space empty in case of an emergency or disaster.

Advertisement

Perrone prepares the cremated remains for burial, placing each cardboard box into a large burial shell that's divided into 20 compartments. Then she seals on the top.

"I don't think anyone else will ever see these remains," she often thinks to herself.

The burial shells are laid to rest at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery on the southwest side, and funeral services are held every few months until the ground freezes in winter. The grave site is marked with a black granite monument, unveiled in July by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago.

"May their souls rest in peace" is etched on one side.

Perrone said she attends every service, leaving the cemetery a list of names of the deceased in case loved ones ever come forward. The funerals often draw a crowd of mourners  county officials, medical examiner's office staff, funeral directors and clergy.

"We are the last physician who sees these patients, so it is an honor taking care of their disposition," said Arunkumar, who also attends many of the burials. "To me, it's fulfilling that we are there for them."

Advertisement

eleventis@chicagotribune.com

Twitter: @angie_leventis
Immigrants talk about resettling in Rockford, where the immigrant population grew by 64 percent from 2000 to 2015, according to U.S. census data. "Rockford  it's a great place for a refugee to start," said Ahmed Muhammed, who moved to Rockford from Iraq in 2010. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune) (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

ROCKFORD  Like most Midwestern cities, this one is losing its native population. It's becoming less appealing to the people born and raised there, who have their sights set on warmer states in the South and West.

But as locals move out, immigrants are moving in.

Advertisement

Rockford has manufacturing and aerospace jobs, and help-wanted fliers are taped inside the windows of storefronts. It's a short drive from Milwaukee, Madison and Chicago. Housing is affordable. There are Buddhist temples and a mosque, and tight-knit immigrant communities that praise Rockford to friends and families overseas who are looking to settle in America.

For these reasons, among others, the city's immigrant population grew by 64 percent from 2000 to 2015, according to U.S. Census data, helping to mitigate a net population loss of about 10,000 people between 2010 and 2016.

Advertisement

Rockford is emblematic of a larger trend that's happening at a time when the country is torn over the issue of immigration. In more than 40 Midwestern cities, immigrants are a lifeline, bucking the pattern of population loss and revitalizing an aging workforce. In the last 15 years, immigrants accounted for 37 percent of the growth of Midwestern metropolitan areas  defined as a city and its surrounding suburbs. That's a significant contribution for a region that has experienced the slowest growth in the nation.

In larger cities like Chicago, population loss is greater and the influx of immigrants isn't having the same impact as in smaller Midwestern cities. Chicago and its suburbs lost 19,570 residents in 2016  the most of any major city in the country.

Immigrants tend to settle in ethnic neighborhoods in larger cities, and have a more difficult time assimilating. Demographers predict that immigrants will likely keep fueling the populations of quieter, midsize cities like Rockford, where some say it's easier to adjust to American life.

"I think in Rockford, you can be part of America," said Sunil Puri, a Rockford businessman who moved there from India in the 1970s. "The middle class, in the middle part of the country, in Midwestern America."

IMMIGRANT POPULATIONS IN THE MIDWEST The map below shows immigrant population percentage change from 2000 to 2015, within 45 metropolitan areas in 10 Midwest states. Areas with higher percentages are traditional gateway areas like Chicago, Minneapolis and Detroit, and outlying areas less known for immigrant communities are slowly increasing. Click on the circles for more detailed data: Sources: The Chicago Council on Urban Affairs, Census Bureau, Esri

Immigrants can't fully make up for population losses across the Midwest communities, but without them, cities and towns would be far worse off, demographers say.

The number of people born in the U.S. has declined since 2000 in about one-third of Midwestern metropolitan areas, according to a report compiled by Chicago demographer Rob Paral in May for the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. Another third of the cities have grown slowly  by less than 7 percent while the nation as a whole grew by 14 percent during that same time.

While immigrants made up 7.8 percent of Midwestern metropolitan areas in 2000, that number rose to 9.7 percent by 2015. The areas with the most foreign born people continue to be traditional gateway cities like Chicago, Minneapolis and Detroit. But in areas less-known for their immigrant communities, like Rockford, Iowa City, Bloomington, Ind., Wichita, Kan., Lincoln, Neb., and Grand Rapids, Mich., immigrants are starting to make up nearly 10 percent of the population.

In towns large and small across Indiana and Wisconsin, the trend is noticeable, according to people surveyed by the Tribune. They say their neighborhoods are diversifying, and they can count a number of newer, immigrant-owned restaurants or businesses they've visited. In Rockford, most residents believe the city to be welcoming to immigrants, and say instances of discrimination are generally rare. They also say they've noticed an effect on the economy.

Advertisement

"From an economic standpoint, we're seeing the impact the immigrant population has on our city," said Mayor Tom McNamara. "It's pretty dramatic. Foreign-born residents are starting businesses at a more frequent rate."

Immigrants from several countries whove recently made Rockford their home gather at Catholic Charities of Rockford on Aug. 24, 2017. From left are: Girom Gebreslessie, a former refugee from Eritrea; Lusi Ntamuheza, a former refugee from Burundi; Thang Khen Mung, a former refugee from Burma; and Tshela Annie Mwambuyi, a former refugee from Congo. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune )

Still, Rockford's home county, Winnebago, voted for President Donald Trump, who promised to reduce illegal immigration and has proposed policies since taking office to do so. Last month, Trump embraced legislation that would dramatically reduce legal immigration and shift toward a system that prioritizes merit and skills over family ties.

Because foreign-born people are a key component of Midwestern cities, Paral said, policies that curtail immigration put their population growth at risk.

"In light of Trump's policies, anything that hurts cities is bad for the Midwest, because we have a lot of cities back on their heels (after) population loss," Paral said.

Some Midwestern cities experiencing an economic boost from immigration sit in conservative counties that helped elect Trump, and opinions about immigration vary in the region. The residents of some towns have risen up to support friends who were living in the country illegally and were scheduled to be deported. Others, like Scott Hansen, a 52-year-old living in Wausau, Wis., say they embrace immigrants who want to start new lives in their cities, but think they should do so legally, through a "front door, not a back door."

"People that intentionally break the law regardless of what it is  in this case we're talking about immigration  laws are established for a reason," he said. "In order to have a functional society everybody has to play by the same rules."

Advertisement

Emily J. Wornell Seregow, a research assistant professor at Ball State University, recently analyzed Indiana's immigrant population. She found that immigrants accounted for 27 percent of the state's population growth of 488,160 people from 2000 to 2015. She also found that 30 percent of immigrants in Indiana had earned bachelor's degrees, compared to 24 percent of native-born residents.

"If these trends continue, and the immigrant population continues to be a larger proportion of these rural communities, then they really do represent the largest potential for population increase," she said.

She believes it's important for immigrants to be well-integrated into these communities and be given the chance to take on leadership roles. Cities and towns relying on immigrants to stabilize their loss of residents should work to retain second and third generations, too.

"The future of what these communities look like is very different from what they looked like 50 years ago," she said.

In Rockford, foreign born residents tend to fall into two groups: Immigrants looking for jobs and a friendly place to raise a family; and refugees who either have family in the area or are placed there by resettlement agencies.

Thinh To, who came to Rockford in 1993 from Vietnam, owns four nail salons and recently got into the restaurant business, helping open Asian Cajun and Pho 815. He said that while the Vietnamese community in Rockford is a modest one, he's noticed the immigrant community as a whole grew larger over the years.

Advertisement

He isn't surprised that immigrants are mitigating the city's population loss. What does surprise him is the president's crackdown on immigration, considering how much he thinks immigrants are helping bolster Midwestern cities.

"We do it the right way," he said. "All of us pay taxes for the work we do. I don't think (Trump) should restrict any of that. We're taking the jobs people don't want to take. We're doing the jobs below their standards."

He hasn't considered leaving Rockford, as it's "all I know." He has two young boys and hopes to keep his family in Rockford for the foreseeable future.

To's feelings about Rockford  that it's a good place to raise children, that the cost of living is cheaper than Naperville or Schaumburg  is shared by refugees, too. They say Rockford has become such a popular destination that refugees request to live there when applying to come to the United States, even if they have no family or friends there.

It's a place, they say, that's accepting of all religions and beliefs, where refugees can start to build new lives.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

"Some people, they would love to move to the big city," said Ahmed Muhammed, 35, who moved to Rockford from Iraq in 2010. "I recommend that they stay here, because Rockford is a good place to get familiar with the United States life."

Advertisement

Tshela Annie Mwambuyi, a 42-year-old mother of six, came from Congo with her family as a refugee in December. She's now happily settled in an apartment building filled with other immigrant families, and said she's amazed by the small acts of kindness she encounters each day.

"They're showing love to us. Even from the church, even from the hospital," she said, referring to a hospital visit shortly after her arrival to give birth to her now six-month-old baby.

Nearly everything about Rockford delights her, from her bible discussion group to the people she meets on the bus.

"People are respecting human beings. It's not only if you are there, sitting next to me. It's coming from here," she said, her hand over her heart.

meltagouri@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @marwaeltagouri
Bullet holes pocked the driver side of the Toyota Corolla. The side windows were shattered and the windshield was streaked with blood. A pile of bloody clothes lay about 20 feet away near 24th Street and Western Avenue.



Juan Bahena Jr., 24, was sitting in the car when someone in a tan minivan opened fire and struck him in the neck, thigh and buttocks around 4:30 p.m. Sunday. He was pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital. He lived about five miles away, in the 3800 block of West 55th Place, according to the medical examiner.



Bahena was the 500th homicide in Chicago this year, according to data kept by the Tribune. Last year, when violence hit levels not seen in decades, the city reached the milestone in late August. So far in 2017, the number of homicides is down about 7 percent from this time last year.



The Tribune counts all homicides, including cases considered justifiable. The Chicago Police Department does not includes those homicides or ones that occur on expressways. Fatal police shootings also are not counted. As of midnight Saturday, Chicago police had recorded 486 murders in the city this year, compared to 521 for the same period in 2016.



Bahena was among at least 2,718 people shot in Chicago this year, a more than 11 percent decrease from the 3,066 shot during the same time last year, according to Tribune data. Chicago police count incidents, not individual victims. As of midnight Saturday, they had recorded 2,089 incidents versus 2,486 in the same period last year, an almost 16 percent decline.



Bahena was shot on the border between the Little Village and Heart of Chicago neighborhoods. Police roped off the intersection of 24th Street and Western, where shattered glass and shell casings littered the area. On 24th Street, just west of the intersection, six evidence markers stood next to shell casings and a trail of broken glass.



To the east, just north of an auto shop, the Corolla sat parked with its flashers and windshield wipers still on. A small group of neighbors stood on the corner.



Karen Leahy, who lives down the street, had just driven through the intersection from shopping at a local grocery store. She was stunned to find out that she had missed the shooting by a few minutes.



"I'm freaking out because I just went through here," she said.



Leahy, who has lived in the neighborhood for 10 years, said things had calmed down lately. "I was just saying how we hadn't had any gang activity or shootings," Leahy said. "I thought it was getting better."



In the distance, music could be heard from the Riot Fest music festival at Douglas Park. Parking was being sold for $25 a few blocks away.



One man approached the crime scene tape, stared down at the investigators and blurted out, "This is 'First 48' for real."



Among those in the crowd was Ray, a 27-year-old father of one who had just moved back to his old neighborhood from downstate Pontiac.



"This is the first time I've seen something like this since I've been back," said Ray, who declined to give his last name because he feared for his safety. "We've heard gunshots in the past few weeks but nothing like this."



Ray said he knew better than to expect violence to end entirely in the cooler months when there are fewer people out on the streets. "It's never over."
A 28-year-old man, identified as Joshua Rayborn by family members, was fatally shot in the 2900 block of South Arch Street in the Bridgeport neighborhood late on Sept. 18, 2017. (Elyssa Cherney / Chicago Tribune)

Anna Rivera-Rayborn came to her son's Bridgeport apartment late Monday to help move her family out of the two-story brick building.

Two hours earlier, her 28-year-old son Joshua Joseph Rayborn was shot and killed while talking on a cellphone in the hallway just after 11:30 p.m. Monday, according to Chicago police and relatives. His wife and two young children, ages 8 and 4, lived there with him, Rivera-Rayborn said.

Advertisement

"He was a father. He was a husband. He wasn't a gang banger. He was a good man," said Rivera-Rayborn, crying inside an SUV. Rayborn was married just last year and loved rap music, a performer himself, his mother said.

Blood stained the concrete under the front door of the building in the 2900 block of South Arch Street. Rivera-Rayborn said her son's wife discovered him after she heard a loud bang and went to check on him. Rayborn was taken to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Advertisement

Rayborn was among six people shot from Monday afternoon to early Tuesday, police said.

Most recently, a 24-year-old man was shot in the back and left hip while sitting in a parked vehicle in the Little Village neighborhood on the West Side about 2:20 a.m. Tuesday, police said. He was sitting in the vehicle in the 2100 block of South Western Avenue when someone in a silver sedan fired shots. The man was taken to Stroger Hospital, where his condition was stabilized.

In other shootings:

On the Southeast Side, a 25-year-old man was shot while walking on a sidewalk in the Trumbull Park neighborhood Monday night, police said. The man was shot in the back and the abdomen by someone who approached him on foot in the 10600 block of South Yates Avenue around 11:30 p.m., according to police. He was taken in serious condition to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.

On the South Side, a 21-year-old man was shot in the buttocks in the Englewood neighborhood around 11 p.m., police said. The man was standing outside in the 7200 block of South Halsted when three men fired at him from across the street, according to police. He was taken to Stroger Hospital in good condition.

Just before 8:10 p.m. on the West Side, a 25-year-old man was shot in the 3000 block of West Walnut Street in the East Garfield Park neighborhood, police said. The man was shot in the buttocks and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital for treatment, police said.

About 3:15 p.m. on the Southwest Side, a 54-year-old man was shot in the right leg, police said. The man was shot in the 4400 block of South Leclaire Avenue in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital. The man told police he was standing outside a vehicle on Leclaire when someone came up on foot and began shooting at him, police said.

No one was in custody in any of the attacks, police said.
Chicago police investigate the scene of a shooting at the intersection of West 24th Street and South Western Avenue on Sept. 17, 2017, on the West Side. The shooting victim, a 20-year-old man, was later pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital. (Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune)

More than 30 people were wounded by gunfire in Chicago over the weekend, and another 11 people were fatally shot as the city marked 500 homicides for 2017, according to police and data kept by the Tribune.

Authorities provided information on 31 shootings in neighborhoods across the city, from Wicker Park, East Garfield Park and Fernwood to Burnside, Washington Heights and Little Village from Friday afternoon to early Monday. Eleven more people were shot to death, bringing total shooting incidents during the weekend to 42.

Advertisement

Four people were shot to death in a rifle shooting in Brighton Park on Friday, as they traveled in a car, police said. Police found their bodies in the vehicle. Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said a woman in the car was believed to be pregnant, but police won't know for sure until the autopsy.

The Cook County medical examiner's office on Saturday identified the deceased as Michelle Cano; Ida Arvizu, 28; Joel Sandoval, 24; and Miguel Sandoval, 27.

Advertisement

Brighton Park and the nearby Back of the Yards neighborhood have been the scene of dozens of rifle shootings since early 2016.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

In February, the Chicago Tribune reported that gangs in the two neighborhoods were increasingly using rifles styled after AR-15s and AK-47s. At the time, there had been more than 30 shootings believed tied to semi-automatic rifles in the two neighborhoods over the last year. At least 46 people were shot in those attacks, 13 fatally.

Later in the weekend, two neighbors were killed in separate attacks in different parts of the city, officials said. A woman was shot to death near her Southwest Side home Sunday night, hours after a man who lives on the same block was gunned down nearly nine miles away in the South Shore neighborhood on the South Side, according to police.

Authorities were not saying if the two shootings were connected or if the two victims were related. The medical examiner's office said both of them lived in the 6000 block of South Richmond Street.

Last year, when violence hit levels not seen in decades, the city reached 500 homicides in late August. According to the Tribune's count, the city hit that number Sunday with the fatal shooting of Juan Bahena Jr., 24, around 4:30 p.m. near 24th Street and Western Avenue.

So far in 2017, the number of homicides is down about 7 percent from this time last year, Tribune counting shows.

The Tribune counts all homicides, including cases considered justifiable. The Chicago Police Department does not include those homicides or ones that occur on expressways. Fatal police shootings also are not counted. As of midnight Saturday, figures from the Chicago police showed 486 murders in the city this year, compared with 521 for the same period in 2016.

There have been at least 2,718 people shot in Chicago this year, a more than 11 percent decrease from the 3,066 shot during the same time last year, according to Tribune data. Chicago police count incidents, not individual victims. As of midnight Saturday, police had recorded 2,089 incidents versus 2,486 in the same period last year, an almost 16 percent decline.
A teenager was held without bail Monday after prosecutors said the man he's accused of killing made a dying declaration naming the person who shot him.

Maurice King, 21, told witnesses and police that Anthony Culpepper, 18, shot him about 10:15 a.m. Saturday across the street from King's home in the 2500 block of West 58th Street in the Marquette Park neighborhood, prosecutors said Monday.

Advertisement

King walked across the street to his car, and just after he got into the driver's seat, a man walked over to the side of the car where King was sitting and opened fire, prosecutors said.

King got out of the car on the passenger side and crossed the street, collapsing in the front hallway of a nearby home, prosecutors said. When witnesses who heard the gunfire found King and tried to get him medical attention, King told them that Anthony Culpepper had shot him.

Advertisement

When police and emergency crews responded to the call, King again named the man he believed was the shooter.

A witness saw a man with black shorts and no shirt running from the scene with a gun in his hand, then drive away in a gold Nissan Altima, according to prosecutors.

King was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was treated for seven gunshot wounds, including one to his back, according to prosecutors. Multiple bullet casings were found and collected as evidence outside the driver's side of King's car.

About six hours after the shooting, Culpepper was stopped in a gold Nissan Altima wearing no shirt and black shorts, prosecutors said. A witness tentatively identified Culpepper in a photo lineup.

King's accusation is legally known as a "dying declaration," which can be used against a person in court proceedings, as it is exempt from rules barring hearsay.

On Monday, Judge David Navarro ordered Culpepper, of the 1300 block of West 83rd Street, held without bail on suspicion of first-degree murder.

Chicago Tribune's Megan Crepeau contributed.
Joy Ramos, 22, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of her 3-year-old son Steven Figueroa and with aggravated battery in the abuse of her 6-year-old son and 22-month-old daughter, according to prosecutors. (Cook County sheriff's office / )

The mother of a 3-year-old Elk Grove Village boy faces a murder charge in his killing as police question a second "person of interest" in the boy's death, authorities said Monday.

Joy N. Ramos, 22, charged with first-degree murder in her son Steven Figueroa's death last week, was ordered held without bail Saturday in a hearing before Cook County Judge Maria Kuriakos Ciesil, according to Cook County state's attorney's office spokeswoman Tandra Simonton and records. Ramos also faces aggravated battery charges in the abuse of her 6-year-old son and 22-month-old daughter.

Advertisement

Police on Monday also were questioning another person of interest in Steven's death, Elk Grove Village Deputy Police Chief Nick Olsen said in an email. On Friday, when they announced Ramos' arrest on murder and aggravated battery charges, police had asked for the public's help finding a 25-year-old Hoffman Estates man who was a "person of interest" in the case, but it was not confirmed Monday that they were questioning the same man.

The Department of Children and Family Services is investigating abuse allegations regarding the children, a spokeswoman has said.

Advertisement

Ramos, of the 900 block of Perrie Road in the northwest suburb, brought Steven to the Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Elk Grove Village and gave hospital staff no explanation for Steven's condition, according to authorities. He was pronounced dead at 10:27 a.m. Wednesday, and police were called to the hospital about 11:15 a.m.

Initially, police found that Ramos had brought Steven to the hospital because he wasn't responding or breathing, according to a police news release.

After an autopsy, the Cook County medical examiner's office determined Steven suffered two lacerations to his liver and multiple bruises to his back, head and abdomen, and ruled his death was a homicide caused by blunt abdominal trauma in an assault, according to prosecutors.

Ramos and her boyfriend lived in an apartment with Steven and his 22-month-old sister, prosecutors said. When questioned, Ramos admitted repeatedly hitting Steven with a belt, but said she hit him less often after her boyfriend moved in with her in July.

Ramos told investigators that her boyfriend hit Steven with a belt frequently, and in the weeks leading up to Steven's death, her boyfriend several times took Steven into a bedroom and beat him, prosecutors said. The boyfriend also forced Steven to do what he called exercises, including holding a push-up position or sitting against a wall, and that the boy's older brother would be punished if Steven failed in the exercises.

The older brother went to live with relatives about the time the boyfriend moved in, but he told investigators that before he moved, Ramos and the boyfriend hit the boys with belts, causing bruising, before he left the home, prosecutors said. Ramos' mother also lived with her and the boyfriend, and saw Ramos hit the children with both her hands and a belt. She confronted Ramos about it, saying Ramos was abusing the boys, but did not report the abuse to DCFS because she was afraid the children would be placed in separate homes, prosecutors said.

Sometime in late August, Ramos told a family member that Steven could not go the family member's house because he was throwing up blood, prosecutors said. When questioned by police, she told them she had taken Steven to a doctor, but medical records show he hadn't seen one in a year.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

Ramos told police she should have told her boyfriend to leave, called police and taken Steven to a doctor, prosecutor said.

Advertisement

Ramos admitted that both she and her boyfriend would hit the 22-month-old girl with a belt, leaving bruise, most recently last week, prosecutors said. Last week, when the girl was crying, the boyfriend hit her all day with the belt.

The day Steven died, Ramos found the boyfriend with an unresponsive Steven. Her boyfriend told Ramos "You don't know what I went through with him," Ramos told investigators.

The two drove Steven to the hospital, but the boyfriend left after dropping Ramos and the boy.

A child abuse pediatrician who was consulted in Steven's case judged that Steven's injuries were consistent with his having been injured the night before he was taken to the hospital, prosecutors said.

The girl was taken to Lurie Children's Hospital, where she was treated for bruises on her abdomen, jaw, ears, face, back, buttocks and legsinjuries a child abuse doctor who examiner her judged were from abuse, not accidents, prosecutors said. The girl also had a mark on her torso that was consistent with being hit with a cord and a mark on her leg consistent with being hit with a belt. She also had elevated liver function lab results, indicative of an internal abdominal injury, prosecutors said.

Ramos was scheduled to appear in court again Tuesday at Cook County's Rolling Meadows branch court, according to authorities and records.
Demonstrators rally outside the Crowne Plaza Sept. 9, 2018, the one-year anniversary of the death of Kenneka Jenkins, who was found dead inside a freezer at the hotel in Rosemont. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Police in Rosemont on Monday said the investigation into the death of Kenneka Jenkins, the Chicago teenager who was found dead in a hotel walk-in freezer Sept. 10, will remain in their hands despite requests from activists that an outside agency become involved.

A statement from police Chief Donald Stephens released Monday evening said, "This investigation has been and remains the utmost priority for us."

Advertisement

The statement came on the heels of a memorial for Jenkins in Chicago's Douglas Park on Saturday that was followed by a march to FBI headquarters on Roosevelt Road. About 30 of the 100 people gathered at the park were involved in the march and said they were dissatisfied with hotel video released by Rosemont police on Friday.

"We're here at the FBI building asking for a second look," activist Mark Carter told reporters among a crowd of supporters at the front gate of the FBI's Illinois Medical District headquarters Saturday.

Advertisement

Carter and the group promised to put an economic hardship on Rosemont.

Contributing to increased tensions following Jenkins' death was a misstatement by an activist who told reporters last week, prior to the release of surveillance video by police, that no one lured Jenkins into the freezer. The activist later clarified that the footage shows Jenkins staggering through an empty kitchen at the Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare hotel but does not show her entering the freezer where she was later found dead.

Authorities have said they're treating the case as a death investigation, not a homicide.

Jenkins' mother, Teresa Martin, said she supports a federal investigation, saying the videos did not make sense to her.

"I'm not a professional, but the FBI, from what I heard, they are professionals," said Martin, whose first name is sometimes spelled Tereasa. "I'm just looking for help  that's all I've been asking for since day one."

On Monday evening, a few dozen protesters again gathered along the sidewalk outside the Crowne Plaza in Rosemont, chanting slogans like, "No justice, no peace. This hotel won't get no sleep."

At one point, a line of local police in squad cars approached the protesters, followed by more officers on bicycles, and a police van was stationed nearby. Some protesters shouted angrily at the officers while other protesters appeared to restrain them, but as of about 7:45 p.m., the gathering remained peaceful and it appeared no one was detained.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

"We need the FBI to take over this case because the public trust is not there for the Rosemont Police Department," activist Jedidiah Brown said during Monday evening's protest.

Advertisement

In the statement earlier Monday declining assistance from the FBI, Stephens said his agency already has spoken up and asked when an outside agency was able to provide assistance, he said. In this case, however, he wrote about how confident he is in his team.

"I am fully confident in the ability of each and every one of the officers, detectives, and leadership team charged with this case. At no time have I doubted the work that is being done," Stephens wrote in the statement.

Surveillance video released by Rosemont police Friday appears to show that no one else entered the freezer area between the time Jenkins was seen stumbling through the kitchen and when her body was discovered nearly 24 hours later.

Chicago Tribune's William Lee contributed.

kdouglas@chicagotribune.com

jkeilman@chicagotribune.com
Activists rally for effective implementation of Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans' new general order that aims to significantly reduce the number of people incarcerated in Cook County Jail while they are awaiting trial by giving people affordable bail. (Lou Foglia/Chicago Tribune) (Lou Foglia/Chicago Tribune)

A new slate of judges using a new set of guidelines began to preside over Cook County bond hearings Monday as dozens of activists rallied at the criminal courthouse to let authorities know they expect real reform.

The changes are designed to set affordable bail amounts for defendants awaiting trial who do not pose a danger to the public.

Advertisement

Michael Clancy, one of the new judges brought in to oversee bond hearings at the county's main criminal courthouse at 26th Street and California Avenue, ordered most defendants released on electronic monitoring or their own recognizance while hearing about 30 new cases Monday.

In a handful of instances, though, Clancy ordered defendants held on a money bond higher than they said they could pay. But he set their next court date within a week to comply with a new rule requiring another bond review be held within seven days under such circumstances.

Advertisement

After a proposed class-action suit last year challenged the constitutionality of the bond system, Chief Judge Timothy Evans signed an order in July generally prohibiting judges from setting bonds higher than defendants can afford to pay.

Evans' office followed up late last week with a major shake-up of bond court, reassigning all six judges who presided over hearings at the Leighton Criminal Court Building. Their replacements all went through training on a tool used to assess a defendant's risk of committing further crime or skipping court dates.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

Illinois law already required judges to consider a defendant's financial situation before setting bond and held that bail amounts cannot be "oppressive." But critics say judges often ignored that rule, and the new order, like an existing state law, will only be effective as long as judges comply with it.

"The people are here today to make sure that you stick to that ... order," the Rev. Dwayne Grant, pastor at Xperience Church in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood, told reporters outside the courthouse as a crowd of supporters cheered. "Y'all judges better hear our voice today."

The cash bond system has come under fire from critics who say it unfairly punishes poor people charged with minor infractions who linger in jail because they don't have the cash to pay often meager bonds.

As of Monday, about 300 of the nearly 7,500 detainees in Cook County Jail were unable to post bonds of as little as $1,000 or less, according to Cara Smith, policy chief for Sheriff Tom Dart, whose office runs the jail.

Numerous county officials have voiced support for revamping the bond system. State's Attorney Kim Foxx, who was elected last year on promises of reform, announced in March that her office would no longer oppose releasing some jail detainees because they could not afford small amounts of bail.

mcrepeau@chicagotribune.com

Advertisement

Twitter @crepeau






Gov. Bruce Rauner answers questions during a news conference in Springfield on Aug. 30, 2017. An abortion rights advocate says a bill that would extend the availability of taxpayer-subsidized abortions to state workers and Medicaid recipients wont be sent to Rauners desk unless he says he will sign it. (Rich Saal / AP)

Welcome to Clout Street: Morning Spin, our weekday feature to catch you up with what's going on in government and politics from Chicago to Springfield. Subscribe here.

Topspin

Terry Cosgrove, the president and CEO of the abortion-rights advocacy group Personal PAC, says a bill that would extend the availability of taxpayer-subsidized abortions to state workers and Medicaid recipients won't be sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner's desk unless he says he will sign it.

Advertisement

Lawmakers approved the legislation known as House Bill 40 on May 10. But Democratic state Sen. Don Harmon of Oak Park put a procedural hold on the bill, preventing it from being sent to the Republican governor.

The legislation also contains a clause aimed at preventing Illinois from banning abortion in the event of a reversal of the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Advertisement

In April, Rauner said he would veto the measure and his office said that while the governor was "committed to protecting women's reproductive rights under current Illinois law," he did not back the proposal because of the "sharp divisions of opinion of taxpayer funding of abortion."

But in an April 2014 questionnaire to Personal PAC, then-governor candidate Rauner pledged to support such a law.

"I dislike the Illinois law that restricts abortion coverage under the state Medicaid plan and state employees' health insurance because I believe it unfairly restricts access based on income," his response on that survey said. "I would support a legislative effort to reverse that law."

There has been speculation that with Rauner's vow to veto the measure, Democrats were looking for the best time politically to send it to the governor to energize abortion-rights supporters.

But Cosgrove said on WGN 720-AM on Sunday that he wasn't aware of such a tactic. He said the bill won't move without a Rauner promise to sign it.

"As far as I know, House Bill 40 is not going to be sent to Gov. Rauner until he says he will sign it as it was passed by the Illinois General Assembly," he said. "That is my view of what should happen and currently the view of the sponsors and the people in control of the legislation." (Rick Pearson)

What's on tap

*Mayor Rahm Emanuel will appear at a New York Times event in New York at noon, then is back in Chicago in the evening to speak at the After School Matters Gala at Wintrust Arena.

*Gov. Bruce Rauner is wrapping up his trade mission to China and Japan.

Advertisement

*U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos of Moline will give a lunchtime City Club of Chicago speech.

*The City Council's Education and Child Development Committee meets.

*The week ahead: On Tuesday, Illinois House Republican Leader Jim Durkin will speak to the City Club. And the City Council's Housing and Human Relations committees will have a joint hearing. On Wednesday, the Rev. Stephen Katsouros, executive director of the Arrupe College of Loyola University Chicago, will give a City Club speech titled "How the Jesuits are Reinventing Education (Again)."

From the notebook

*More from Uihlein: Uline CEO Richard Uihlein has given another $2 million to a political action committee that has focused on electing Republicans to seats in Springfield.

State elections records show the contribution to Liberty Principles PAC was reported Saturday. The PAC is run by conservative radio host and former unsuccessful candidate for governor Dan Proft.

Uihlein has given money to the PAC before, as has Gov. Rauner. It reported spending more than $10 million on races in 2016.

Advertisement

*On the "Sunday Spin": Tribune reporter Rick Pearson's guests were Cosgrove; Todd Maisch, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce; and Sam Toia, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association. The "Sunday Spin" airs from 7 to 9 a.m. on WGN-AM 720. Listen to the full show here.

What we're writing

*Attorney General Lisa Madigan won't seek re-election in 2018.

*Lisa Madigan's departure sets off scramble for attorney general's seat.

*At DCFS office that handled Semaj Crosby's case, a "toxic" work environment.

*Former Lincoln-Way chief Wyllie could lose $321,000 annual pension if convicted.

*Lake County (Ind.) elects new top cop following federal corruption conviction of former sheriff.

Advertisement

What we're reading

*Kenneka Jenkins memorial becomes a call for FBI's help with death investigation.

*When Comptroller Mendoza met John "Quarters" Boyle.

*Texas probe: Trooper rude to Sandra Bland, did not follow procedures during arrest.

*More than 100 cities start courting Amazon for its HQ2.

Follow the money

Advertisement

*Track Illinois campaign contributions in real time here and here.

Beyond Chicago

*Trump will attend his first U.N. General Assembly this week.

*McMaster: U.S. isn't rethinking decision on Paris climate deal.

*Trump calls North Korean leader "Rocket Man."

*New storm threatens Caribbean.
Chicago is bidding for Amazon's second corporate headquarters in North America, a project that could bring as many as 50,000 high-paying jobs. The Seattle company's Sunnyvale, Calif., offices are pictured here. (Lisa Werner / Moment Editorial/Getty Images)

Even as city and state officials head to Seattle for a Tuesday tour in a bid to land Amazon's second headquarters for Chicago, Gov. Bruce Rauner on Monday acknowledged his administration also will work with neighboring St. Louis on its bid to woo the internet giant.

The decision by a re-election-seeking governor who needs to keep his Downstate base happy was a reprisal of the regional politics Rauner recently played during his battle with lawmakers over funding for local schools.

Advertisement

The Republican governor, whose relationship with Democratic Mayor Rahm Emanuel has become publicly tense in recent years, assured that city and state economic development teams were "working hand in glove to come up with a single comprehensive proposal."

"That said, I'll also say, as governor of the entire state of Illinois, St. Louis is also competing, and we have a major population center in Metro East. We have major strategic transportation advantages in Metro East around the St. Louis area," Rauner said. "And we will be working in assistance with the St. Louis proposal as well because that could  if St. Louis has some benefits that they bring in terms of their overall package, we want to make sure that Illinois is positioned to be a great benefit of that."

Advertisement

Amazon announced plans this month to establish a "HQ2" and said it would consider sites in metropolitan areas of at least 1 million people in a "stable and business-friendly environment" with access to international airports, major highways and public transportation. The company plans to spend more than $5 billion on a new campus at the second headquarters, creating 50,000 jobs over the next 10 to 15 years and offering positions that will pay an average of more than $100,000 annually.

As for the trip to the company's corporate campus in Seattle, Rauner told reporters that city and state officials would be meeting "with leaders at Amazon." Later, the governor's office acknowledged there would be no meeting with company officials.

The group will be "surveying the Amazon campus to help determine which Chicago area sites would best fit the company's future needs," according to a joint statement from the governor's and mayor's offices.

Among those taking the field trip: Chicago Deputy Mayors Bob Rivkin and Andrea Zopp; Deputy Gov. Leslie Munger; Michael Sacks, a top adviser to Emanuel; former U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker; and the heads of economic development nonprofits representing Chicago and Illinois.

Rauner's comments came as he signed into law a measure extending a tax credit program for businesses that had expired earlier this year.

The governor also was fresh off an eight-day trip to Asia, where he met with Japanese and Chinese businesses to try to recruit jobs to Illinois.

The governor described the trip as "extremely successful," and said "many new projects, many new initiatives will be underway in the coming weeks as a result of our trip." But Rauner later added that he had received "no firm commitments" from any of the companies he met with during his travels.

It was Rauner's first official international trip as governor, despite having campaigned in 2014 on a pledge to travel the world on his "own dime" to recruit businesses to Illinois. After he was elected, and for the following 21/2 years, Rauner contended that the business climate in Illinois needed to be fixed before he could make a good case for companies to come here.

Advertisement

On Monday, Rauner cited Illinois' comparatively low income-tax rate as an advantage for recruiting business. The state's personal income tax rate, at a flat 4.95 percent, is much lower than the rates paid by residents in many coastal states, which Rauner described as "a strategic advantage that I've been trying to sell."

Rauner also said that it was the unpredictability of the yearslong budget impasse that kept him from embarking on his international recruitment project until this month.

"I didn't want to leave the country when we didn't have a budget," Rauner said. "I wanted to be here, because you never know when issues are going to pop."

The governor did, however, travel internationally at least twice in the midst of the record budget stalemate. In late 2015, Rauner spent the holidays in Spain and Morocco, where he later said he slept in tents and took a camel ride. Last November, Rauner was among dozens of local officials who traveled to the Vatican to celebrate the elevation of Blase Cupich to cardinal.

Chicago Tribune's Hal Dardick contributed.

kgeiger@chicagotribune.com

Advertisement

Twitter @kimgeiger
PARIS  American college students attacked with acid at a train station in France have offered compassion and prayers for their assailant, who authorities say suffers from a mental illness.

French authorities have said they don't believe extremist views motivated the 41-year-old woman arrested in the attack on the four Boston College students, who are studying abroad.

Advertisement

One of the students, Courtney Siverling, said in a post on Facebook that she was not injured and that all the women are "safe."

"I pray that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of Jesus and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him," said Siverling, of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania.

Advertisement

The four women intend to remain in Europe to continue their studies, the spokesman for Boston College told The Associated Press.

The four were attacked Sunday morning at the Saint Charles train station in the southern French city of Marseille. Police in France described the suspect as "disturbed" and said the attack was not thought to be terror-related, according to a statement from Boston College, a private Jesuit school.

College spokesman Jack Dunn said the women were released from the hospital and expected to return to Paris on Monday.

Michelle Krug said she was one of two who got hit in the eye with "a weak solution of hydrochloric acid." She asked friends to "please consider thinking about/praying for our attacker" so she can receive help.

"Mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized," Krug, of White Plains, New York, wrote, adding she planned to continue her "incredible opportunity" to study in France.

Kelsey Kosten said on Facebook that all the women are doing much better and that she is looking forward to returning to Copenhagen to continue her studies abroad. Her father, Phillip Kosten, told The Boston Globe at his Winchester, Massachusetts, home that his daughter is "fine" and asked for privacy for his family.
Police officers respond to a collision involving two buses on Main Street in the Queens borough of New York on Sept. 18, 2017. (NYPD's 109th Precinct via AP)

NEW YORK  A charter bus owned by a company with a record of safety problems barreled through an intersection, slammed into a city bus and then plowed across a sidewalk and into a building Monday, killing three people.

The wreck, which was captured by a security camera, ripped away the facade of a fried chicken restaurant and started a small fire. The video appeared to show the charter bus racing through the intersection without applying its brakes.

Advertisement

"The tour bus was flying," Mike Ramos, a witnesses to the crash, told the Daily News. "There was people pinned under the front of the city bus. A lady was crying and screaming, 'Get me out! Get me out!'" he said.

One of the people killed was a pedestrian on the sidewalk, identified by police as Henry Wdowiak, 68, of Queens. The other dead were the charter bus driver, Raymond Mong, 49, and a passenger on the Metropolitan Transportation bus, Gregory Liljefors, 55.

Advertisement

Sixteen other people were hurt, some of them seriously, in the crash, which happened at 6:15 a.m. in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens, city officials said at a briefing. The charter bus was empty of passengers at the time of the crash.

Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was shocked by the "sheer destruction."

A building that houses a number of retail stores, including the restaurant, received substantial impact from the crash, and experts were working to make sure it was secure, the mayor said.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Joe Lhota said that although the investigation has just begun, the evidence indicates there was "an enormous amount of speed."

"We want to make sure we understand what happened and prevent this from ever happening again," he said.

VIDEO: Shocking footage captures moment tour bus smashes into MTA bus in fatal Queens crash https://t.co/3LcVmqa6Rl pic.twitter.com/PPikBXT7pV  New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) September 18, 2017

Signage on the charter bus showed it was from the Dahlia Group Inc., which has its depot a few blocks from where the wreck happened.

A person answering the phone there declined to comment; there was no immediate response to an email seeking comment.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration records show that a Dahlia bus was also involved in a fatal crash in Connecticut in February 2016.

Advertisement

One of the company's buses was driving through a snowstorm to reach the Mohegan Sun casino when it overturned on Interstate 95 in Madison, east of New Haven. One person died, and 36 people were injured.

The company's drivers have been cited several times over the past 12 months for safety violations, including failing to obey a traffic control device, speeding and unlawful parking in the roadway.

Federal regulators have flagged the company on a public website of having more infractions than similarly sized companies.

A Yelp page for the company is filled with complaints from motorists complaining about Dahlia buses speeding or driving dangerously.

Liljefors' widow, Audris Liljefors, told the New York Post her husband was a security guard on his way home from a night job.

"He was a good man. He was a good husband for 27 years. He was a good father to his two step-sons," she said.
Defense Secretary Jim Mattis selected Air Force Gen. Paul Selva, the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan to make evidence-based recommendations on the way forward, according to the memo released Monday.

This memo follows similar ones  released by the White House on Aug. 25 and the Pentagon on Aug. 28  giving Mattis until Feb. 21 to establish a plan for carrying out President Donald Trump's controversial ban on transgender personnel.

The president's surprise announcement via Twitter came July 26, saying he would not allow "transgender individuals to serve in any capacity." A day later, the Pentagon's top officer, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Joseph Dunford, indicated the military will comply with Trump's directive, but not before a new policy is finalized.

The Obama administration repealed a longtime ban on transgender military service in July 2016, saying there should be no barriers for qualified people who wish to serve. Trump and other critics have questioned whether such personnel are disruptive and cost money that should be spent elsewhere.

Mattis's new memo  labeled "Military Service by Transgender Individuals  Interim Guidance"  reiterates that the Defense Department will not take any adverse action against transgender service members this year. Those diagnosed with gender dysphoria will be provided with treatment, and policies put in place by the Obama administration will remain in effect for the time being.

Moreover, transgender troops who are "otherwise qualified" also may to reenlist as the Pentagon sorts through its next policy, Mattis wrote.

"First and foremost," the memo says, "we will continue to treat every Service member with dignity and respect."

The Pentagon will reestablish a "Central Coordination Cell" in the office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. That post is being filled on a temporary, acting basis by Anthony Kurta, whom Trump has nominated to serve as the deputy undersecretary in the office. Trump's nominee to head the office, Robert Wilkie, has not yet been confirmed by the Senate.

In August, Mattis said the Defense Department's soon-to-be arriving political appointees would play an important role in crafting its new transgender policy.

Shanahan was confirmed as the Pentagon's deputy defense secretary in July. He previously spent more than three decades with Boeing, most recently as its senior vice president for supply chain and operations.

Selva has been the Pentagon's vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff since July 2015, and faced a second Senate confirmation hearing in July at which he was asked to address how the Pentagon is reviewing its transgender policy, and whether there would be any unintended consequences from Mattis's prior decision to delay until 2018 the acceptance of transgender military recruits.

The general told lawmakers that he was an "advocate of every qualified person who can meet the physical standards to serve in our uniformed services to be able to do so," and that the decision to delay new accessions was focused on a disagreement about how mental health care and hormone therapy would help solve medical issues associated with gender dysphoria.
Protesters angrily confronted House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., on Monday about her emerging agreement with President Trump to provide legal protections to young undocumented immigrants.

Pelosi and Reps. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., and Jared Huffman, D-Calif., appeared at an event in her home town of San Francisco to call on Congress to immediately pass the Dream Act, bipartisan legislation that would enshrine legal protections for hundreds of thousands of "dreamers" into law. But the legislation is now the central part of an anticipated agreement between Trump and Democratic congressional leaders that would couple the bill with unspecified plans to bolster security along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The president, Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., agreed to work on the plan during a rare dinner meeting last week.

But on Monday, Pelosi came face-to-face with people who say they would be directly affected by any change in policy. After addressing the crowd, roughly 40 people rushed the stage and started chanting loudly while Pelosi, her security detail, Lee and Huffman watched. Several identified themselves as "undocumented youth" - presumably beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program or other dreamers.

"We are not a bargaining chip!" the protesters chanted, according to local reporters.

"All of us or none of us," they said later.

After standing by and watching the protest for more than 20 minutes, Pelosi eventually left the scene. Her official Facebook page had been live-streaming the event and her aides encouraged out-of-town reporters to watch it, but the feed cut out as the protesters persisted.

The protesters were identified as members of the local chapters of RISE, Faith in Action and the California Youth Immigrant Justice Alliance, according to Pelosi aides.

Pelosi is not the first - and likely won't be the last - Democratic official to be confronted by immigration activists. Several times over the course of his presidency, young immigration rights protesters shouted at President Barack Obama during official events, campaign rallies or campaign fundraisers. Given their distance from the president, he usually succeeded in shouting them down or U.S. Secret Service escorted them from the room. In this case, Pelosi had to stand by, with cameras rolling, as they continued shouting.

Talks to sort out the specifics of the deal sought by Trump and Democrats are set to begin this week, but several congressional aides said Monday that they had no details yet on plans to begin the talks or what they would focus on - if they ever commence.
The Congressional Budget Office is in the process of estimating the cost and coverage impact of the Graham-Cassidy bill, according to a senior Senate Republican aide. The measure from Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Bill Cassidy, R-La., Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and Dean Heller, R-Nev., would provide states with funding to establish health insurance programs outside ACA protections and mandates, an approach that could force millions off insurance rolls.

Republicans are facing pressure to undercut the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, with legislation as soon as possible, partially because the Senate's ability to pass budgetary legislation with a simple majority expires Sept. 30. After that date, health-care legislation will require 60 votes to pass, making it much harder for Republicans to approve legislation that would restructure Obamacare.

Democrats are taking the latest chatter seriously, and liberal lawmakers spent the weekend slamming the bill on social media.

"The Graham-Cassidy @SenateGOP 'health care' bill IS Trumpcare, & it will rip health care away from millions of Americans," Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts wrote as part of a series of tweets.

Progressive groups also spent the weekend resisting the potential legislation. Ben Wikler, the Washington director of MoveOn, told followers to be ready for a possible vote as early as Sept. 27.

Republican leaders are now trying to determine whether they have enough votes to begin debate on the bill, according to Senate aides. They are also trying to get Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., whose "no" vote sank the most recent Republican health-care bill in July, fully on board.

McCain has said he supports the bill in theory but wants to assess its impact on Arizona. Without prompting, he cautioned Republicans on Sunday against the instinct to "ram through our proposal" with a party-line vote.

"Why did Obamacare fail? Obamacare was rammed through with Democrats' votes only. ... That's not the way to do it. We've got to go back. If I could just say again, the way to do this is have a bill, put it through committee," he said on CBS's "Face the Nation."

Senate Republicans have a very slim path to victory on Graham-Cassidy: If more than two Republicans vote no, the bill won't pass. The math became even harder once Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., announced his opposition Friday.

"I can't support a bill that keeps 90% of Obamacare in place," Paul tweeted.

Cassidy replied to say the measure "repeals entire architecture of Obamacare & gives Kentucky control over its own health care."

Compared with Paul, conservative groups have been fairly quiet on the bill. Americans for Prosperity, the Koch-funded tea party group, has said nothing about it since the group's pivot to tax reform in August.

Heritage Action for America, which organized years of repeal rallies, echoed Paul's worry that the bill would leave the ACA's basic structure in place.

But senators' all-or-nothing pitch for the bill has worked on some organizations.

The Family Research Council has backed the measure as the last good chance to "stop taxpayer funding of abortion and redirect tax dollars away from the nation's largest abortion business, Planned Parenthood."

FreedomWorks also gave the bill a partial endorsement.

"It's not the repeal of Obamacare that was promised," wrote FreedomWorks' legislative affairs vice president Jason Pye on Saturday. "Nevertheless, FreedomWorks is treating it as what is likely to be the last serious attempt to reform Obamacare."

The Washington Post's Kelsey Snell, Mike DeBonis and Sean Sullivan contributed to this report.
A leaked memo from Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments  Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante  be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou (Francisco Kjolseth / AP)

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has recommended that President Donald Trump modify 10 national monuments created by his immediate predecessors, including shrinking the boundaries of at least four western sites, according to a copy of the report obtained by The Washington Post.

The memorandum, which the White House has refused to release since Zinke submitted it late last month, does not specify exact reductions for the four protected areas Zinke would have Trump narrow - Utah's Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Nevada's Gold Butte, and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou - or the two marine national monuments - the Pacific Remote Islands and Rose Atoll - for which he raised the same prospect. The two Utah sites encompass a total of more than 3.2 million acres, part of the reason they have aroused such intense emotions since their designation.

Advertisement

The secretary's set of recommendations also would change the way all 10 targeted monuments are managed. It emphasizes the need to adjust the proclamations to address concerns of local officials or affected industries, saying the administration should permit "traditional uses" now restricted within the monuments' boundaries, such as grazing, logging, coal mining and commercial fishing.

If enacted, the changes could test the legal boundaries of what powers a president holds under the 1906 Antiquities Act. Although Congress can alter national monuments easily through legislation, presidents have reduced their boundaries only on rare occasions.

Advertisement

The memorandum, labeled "Final Report Summarizing Findings of the Review of Designations Under the Antiquities Act," shows Zinke concluded after a nearly four-month review that both Republican and Democratic presidents went too far in recent decades in limiting commercial activities in protected areas. The act, signed into law by President Theodore Roosevelt, gives the president wide latitude to protect public lands and waters that face an imminent threat.

"It appears that certain monuments were designated to prevent economic activity such as grazing, mining and timber production rather than to protect specific objects," the report reads, adding that while grazing is rarely banned "outright," subsequent management decisions "can have the indirect result of hindering livestock-grazing uses."

To correct this overreach, Zinke says, Trump should use his authority under the Antiquities Act to change each of the 10 sites' proclamations to permit activities that are now restricted. These include "active timber management" in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters; a broader set of activities in New Mexico's Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte; and commercial fishing in the two Pacific Ocean marine monuments, as well as in one off the New England coast, Northeast Canyons and Seamounts.

In most of his recommendations, Zinke suggests Trump amend the existing proclamations "to protect objects and prioritize public access; infrastructure upgrades, repair and maintenance; traditional use; tribal cultural use; and hunting and fishing rights."

The White House is reviewing the recommendations and has not reached a final decision on them. At several points, the memo bears the marker "Draft Deliberative - Not for Distribution."

In an email Sunday, White House spokeswoman Kelly Love said she would not discuss in detail a review that is still underway: "The Trump Administration does not comment on leaked documents, especially internal drafts which are still under review by the President and relevant agencies."

The majority of the monuments listed in the report were established by either President Bill Clinton or President Barack Obama, but the two Pacific Ocean sites were created by President George W. Bush and later expanded by Obama.

"No other administration has gone this far," Kristen Brengel, vice president of government affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association, said of the Trump White House in an interview. "This law was intended to protect places from development, not promote damaging natural and cultural resources."

Advertisement

The secretary urges Trump to request congressional authority "to enable tribal co-management of designated cultural resources" in three ancestral sites: Bears Ears, Rio Grande del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks.

At the same time, he proposes not only shrinking the boundaries of Bears Ears but requesting that Congress make less-restrictive designations within it, "such as national recreation areas or national conservation areas." The monument, which contains tens of thousands of cultural artifacts, has become the most prominent symbol of the issues surrounding the Antiquities Act.

Yet Zinke also suggests the administration explore the possibility of establishing three new national monuments that would recognize either African-American or Native American history. These include Kentucky's Camp Nelson, an 1863 Union Army outpost where African-American regiments trained; the home of murdered civil rights hero Medgar Evers in Jackson, Mississippi; and the 130,000-acre Badger-Two Medicine area in Zinke's home state of Montana, which is consider sacred by the Blackfeet Nation.

"This process should include clear criteria for designations and methodology for meeting conservation and protection goals," he writes of these potential designations, adding that this course should be "fully transparent" to allow for public input.

Trump signed an executive order in April directing Zinke to examine any national monument created since Jan. 1, 1996, and spanning at least 100,000 acres. The secretary ultimately included 27 of them, including Katahdin, which is roughly 87,500 acres.

Before submitting Zinke's report to the White House in August, Interior had already announced that six of the monuments under scrutiny would remain unchanged. Zinke's memorandum is silent on the fate of the remaining 11 monuments, including Papahanaumokuakea, which Bush created but Obama expanded to more than 582,578 square miles of land and sea in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

Advertisement

Conservative Republicans, including House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Rep. Rob Bishop of Utah, have long been critical of how presidents have used the Antiquities Act. Speaking to reporters last month, Bishop said that the law was not intended "to appoint the president as a dictator" and that federal officials needed to be more respectful of what state lawmakers and local residents thought of protecting areas near their communities.

Ethan Lane, who directs the Public Lands Council at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, said in an interview that what administration officials are doing is "going back in to look at these designations and ensuring that groups that are significantly impacted are heard. . . . They're going back and fixing what is wrong with a pretty hurried and nontransparent process."

Grand Staircase-Escalante, which Clinton designated in 1996, later led to a land exchange between Utah and the federal government that was ratified by Congress and incorporated a $14 million buyout of 17 leases held by Andalex Resources Inc. within the monument's boundaries.

Zinke's report notes that the site contains "an estimated several billion tons of coal and large oil deposits" and that the limits of motorized vehicle use there "has created conflict with Kane and Garfield Counties' transportation network."

In the case of the Pacific Remote Islands, the memo notes that before Bush protected it in 2009 "there were Hawaiian and American Samoan longliners and purse seiners vessels operating."

National Geographic explorer in residence Enric Sala, who has conducted scientific surveys in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, said in an email that any effort to restart commercial fishing within its boundaries "would not only harm the ecosystem the monument is supposed to protect, but also its ability to help replenish tuna fisheries around it."

Advertisement

While concerns about ranching are raised more frequently than any other objection in the report, Zinke also writes that "border security is a concern resulting from the designation" of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks near New Mexico's border with Mexico. Both the Homeland Security Department and the Pentagon should assess risks associated with the monument, he suggests, given the proximity of nearby military installations.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a letter in January 2014, before the site was designated, saying it would not impede securityand would "significantly enhance the flexibility" of agents patrolling a five-mile strip along the border that was then an official wilderness study area.

Changing the way these monuments are managed, as well as their size, is likely to spur a range of legal challenges. Both Trump's executive order and the report highlight the importance of protecting sites though "the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected."

"Throughout the review, the Secretary has seen examples of objects not clearly defined in the proclamation," the report reads. "Examples of such objects are geographic areas, 'viewsheds,' and 'ecosystems.'"

And in Katahdin, which is managed by the National Park Service, the secretary proposes amending its proclamation "to promote a healthy forest through active timber management."

Lucas St. Clair, whose family's foundation donated the land to the federal government last year to create the monument, said he did not understand why the administration would be seeking changes since the Park Service already has the right to cut trees to maintain the property and protect visitors.

Advertisement

"We need to look through the lens of protecting the conservation and recreational values of the monument. I'm not sure if timber management does that," he said.
Yvonne Rish was the associate director at two west suburban YMCA chapters, overseeing aquatic programs, and worked for more than four decades in the medical field until retiring at 88.

"She expanded the life of the Y, which was programming," said retired YMCA Program Coordinator Dave Bast, who worked for Rish at the B.R. Ryall YMCA in Glen Ellyn. "In a lot of ways, she was responsible for what made B.R. Ryall the greatest Y in the western suburbs. She saw a program need, and she listened to the customer and then they did it  they would expand the high school program or the child care program."

Advertisement

Rish, 89, died of natural causes Aug. 13 at the Westbridge assisted living center at the Wyndemere Senior Living retirement community in Wheaton, said her daughter, Deborah Barnes. Rish had been a Wheaton resident since 1972.

Born Yvonne Fossenkemper in Highland Park, Mich., April 7, 1928, Rish grew up in Birmingham, Mich., and graduated from Cranbrook Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., in 1945. She earned a bachelor's degree in foreign languages from the University of Michigan in 1950.

Advertisement

After college, Rish served in the Navy, graduating from the U.S. Navy Officers Training School in 1951 and serving from 1951 until 1953 as a WAVE officer.

In 1953, Rish and her then-husband moved to Elmhurst, where she was a homemaker. In 1963, she joined the staff of the Elmhurst YMCA, first at its front desk then quickly rising to oversee all swimming programs.

In 1969, Rish and her husband divorced, and she moved to Naperville. She also transferred from the Elmhurst YMCA to B.R. Ryall in Glen Ellyn, where she was promoted to associate director, the second-highest operating position on staff.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 86 Dick Orkin, an award-winning radio advertising creator for close to a half-century who was perhaps best known for his syndicated Chickenman spoof, which aired on Chicago stations, died on Dec. 24 in California. He was 84. Read more. (Handout)

"She was so highly organized, and gave you the direction and expectation, and then got out of the way," Bast recalled. "She just let you do what you needed to do to get the job done. She gave a real flavor to the Y."

Rish was also honored by the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs in 1970 with its Roknich Award for Outstanding Physical Director.

In 1975, Rish began working part time in the admissions department at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield. She left B.R. Ryall in 1976 and began working full time at Mona Kea Medical Park in Carol Stream in two roles: administrative assistant for Orthopaedic Associates of DuPage and condominium administrator for the medical office condominium complex. In her role, Rish worked alongside orthopedic surgeon and Mona Kea developer Douglas Mains, who died in 2013.

"She was (Mains') right-hand person for many years," said Maureen Boyle, a retired nurse manager at Mona Kea. "She was full of energy and was just a joy to work with, with a zest for life. And she was an amazing person, so full of life and always had interesting things to do. And her energy was just what amazed me the most. For a woman in her 70s and 80s, she was one of those people where we thought, 'I'd like to be like that when I'm older.' She was just a real shining star and someone you will never forget."

In 1999, Rish shifted gears at Mona Kea and began working as the coordinator for A Woman's Place, a female-oriented health center. Meanwhile, Rish continued working at Central DuPage Hospital until 1999, when she transferred to working as the registrar for two of the hospital's convenient care centers in Wheaton and Bloomingdale.

Advertisement

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 100 Actress/singer Rose Marie is gleeful as director Carl Reiner, right, and Honorary Mayor of Hollywood Johnny Grant, present her with 2,184th star on the famed Hollywood Walk of Fame Oct. 3, 2001, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. Marie died Dec. 28, 2017, at age 94. Read more. (Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

Rish retired from her work at Mona Kea in 2004, and she retired from the hospital in 2008. However, she continued working part time from 2008 until 2016 as a receptionist at the Westbridge assisted living center in Wheaton. She only stepped down because she suffered a fall, her daughter said.

In addition to Barnes, Rish is survived by two other daughters, Marilyn Travetto and Mary Dauw; a son, Charles; 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Hulgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton.

Bob Goldsborough is a freelance reporter.
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton signs copies of her new book "What Happened" during a book signing event at Barnes and Noble bookstore Sept. 12, 2017, in New York City. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images)

"That which does not kill us makes us stronger."

 Friedrich Nietzsche (and Kelly Clarkson)

Advertisement

(Opening of "Showing Up," the first chapter of "What Happened," Hillary Clinton's new book on the 2016 presidential election.)

 This book is trying too hard.

Advertisement

 If you rearrange the words in these sentences it doesn't spell "Benghazi," but I think that, in and of itself, is EXTREMELY TELLING.

 This font is not right.

 No one would question the font that a man used to type these words, and I can't believe that Hillary Clinton is being subjected to it.

 I'm sorry, but after the second word I blanked out and went straight back to election night, and all I can hear is the sound of sobbing and unused confetti and balloons falling wetly from an unbroken glass ceiling onto a tear-soaked ballroom floor and nothing will ever be all right ever again.

 Why isn't this just an unprintable expletive in ALL CAPS that takes up an entire page? This doesn't feel strong enough.

 When I read this sentence, I burst into tears. When my daughter is old enough, I'm going to read it to her. These are the words of a woman who should have been our president, and not a day goes by that I don't think about that fact with regret. If you ever want to run again, I am still with you, as my numerous bumper stickers say. Your logo was great, by the way, if you're reading this. I hope you are, somewhere. I always hope so.

 These words are OK, but I wish they had been attributed to Bernie Sanders, who is sincere and good. Clinton is insincere and bad.

 Kelly Clarkson in fact said, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Hillary Clinton is out of touch with today's youth, as ever.

Advertisement

 Yas, Khaleesi!

 I know this review is not the place but I don't know where else to post about my general confusion that Pantsuit Nation is still so active.

 AFTER EVERYTHING KATY PERRY SACRIFICED TO CAMPAIGN FOR YOU, HOW COULD YOU DARE TO START A BOOK WITH ANYTHING BUT A KATY PERRY QUOTE?

 I want to hear from Hillary Clinton in her own words, not Nietzsche's words.

 This is no "Dreams From My Father."

 I didn't like this very much, but I know that was because of internalized sexism.

Advertisement

 Too rehearsed.

 I already have all the proof I need that Hillary Clinton secretly orchestrated every bad thing that has befallen the country in the course of her lifetime, including but not limited to JFK's assassination, 9/11 and that time when a swarm of bees flew onto the White House lawn and terrified some children President Barack Obama was reading to.

 This sentence reminded me that Hillary Clinton voted for the Iraq War.

 This is the old Hillary Clinton.

 I just realized it's been almost a year since I had to hear "Fight Song." Oh no, now it is stuck in my head again. I am going to throw this book out of a window, just for reminding me of that abomination.

 I miss the debates.

Advertisement

 She should start the book by apologizing abjectly for everything that went wrong, not with this nonsense quote.

 Nietzsche and Kelly Clarkson, really? This doesn't sound unlike everything that is wrong with white feminism.

 In this sentence, Hillary Clinton makes light of the situations of thousands of hardworking Americans who weren't killed but in fact were NOT made stronger by the ordeals they suffered. She should apologize.

 This seems like something Hillary Clinton would say to Wall Street for money.

 BENGHAZI

 How typical that in order for Kelly Clarkson to get her words taken seriously, she has to attribute them to a man. I am fired up with indignation already!

Advertisement

 Didn't apologize enough.

 Too apologetic.

 EMAILS

 Maybe instead of blaming Nietzsche, Hillary Clinton should blame herself.

 This book just reminds me that we live in the world where all these things happened and I don't like that one bit.

 Already blaming too much on sexism and not enough on herself.

Advertisement

 Where is the apology to Bernie Sanders and the mention of the DNC's complicity? This isn't a good look.

 Did we need this? Why is this happening? Who asked for this?

 Could this be the pivot we have long been waiting for? Already, this is a more presidential tone than we have been seeing from the commander in chief so far. Oh no, was this Hillary Clinton's book? I am sorry, it has been a long week, and I got confused.

"Crooked Hillary Clinton blames everybody (and every thing) but herself for her election loss. She lost the debates and lost her direction!"

Wrong author.

The Washington Post

Advertisement

Alexandra Petri is a Washington Post columnist.
Not to worry, citizens of Margaritaville. Your red state welfare benefits are on the way.

OK, I know, there's no such thing as red state welfare benefits. Not technically. Though recent events are reminding some of us blue state taxpayers about who really pays and who gets what when it comes to the distribution of federal tax dollars.

Advertisement

Sure, Southern conservatives like to moan about us tax-and-spend Yankees and our corrupt political machines, our too-powerful public employee unions and our inner cities full of unemployed folks who live off the generosity of our government. They may even believe it. But the actual numbers have long told a different story. The last time the Northeast-Midwest Institute checked, Southern states like Mississippi, Florida, Texas and Alabama were collecting the most "per capita net flow of funds from the federal government." New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Illinois are at the bottom of that list along with other "donor" states that get the least back in return for the federal taxes they send to Washington, D.C.

There are many, many reasons for this long-standing disparity. There's the flight of retirees and their Social Security checks to warmer climes. There's the heavy concentration of military bases across the South. Some credit the congressional seniority system for the latter phenomenon, but, in truth, it is more efficient to maintain warships in Norfolk, Va., than in Boston. Or at least it was.

Advertisement

The Navy is now scrambling to come up with a plan to deal with chronic and worsening tidal flooding that, unless mitigated, threatens to render the world's largest naval base all but inoperable in a decade or two.

All of which brings me, albeit belatedly, to the topic of this column: the National Flood Insurance Program.

This is the ultimate red state welfare benefit in that policyholders tend to be upscale property owners in seaside communities down South that generally swing Republican. Especially GOP strongholds in Texas and Florida, now reeling in the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. I realize it's bad form to just now begrudge aid to fellow Americans whose homes have been flooded, whose lives have been turned upside down, who are at this moment mucking out homes in the hot, soggy dark, perhaps trying to salvage wedding pictures or family heirlooms. So, I won't do that. What's more, my PayPal offering has been sent to the American Red Cross.

But ladies and gentlemen of the tropical South, please understand going forward that we are all in this together; that our problems, both North and South, are mutual problems; that they won't be solved by blaming others while excusing ourselves.

So yes, I expect enough Rust Belt Democrats in Congress will vote for billions in needed hurricane relief, enough to offset "no" votes by tea party Republicans who think people should solve their own problems. Enough Yankees also will vote to extend and refinance the National Flood Insurance Program. They'll do this even though NFIP was due to expire at the end of the month and even though it is $25 billion in the red following payouts for hurricanes Sandy and Katrina. They'll do this even though your lowland communities have refused to ban residential construction in flood-prone areas or to stiffen flood-resistant building codes.

Maybe now, after Harvey and Irma, you'll get around to making those needed changes. Maybe now, after a caring nation again steps up to help, you'll stop electing politicians who claim that global warming, with its rising sea levels and more intense storms, is some sort of hoax.

And one more thing: You're going to need a lot of help removing all those fallen trees and replacing mold-ridden drywall. Who's going to do all that? You know who.

Better slow down on the "Build the wall!" nonsense. This Yankee is sorry for your troubles and wishes you a speedy recovery. After all, we're all in this together, or should be.

Advertisement

John McCarron teaches, consults and writes on urban affairs.

Twitter @McCarronJohn
Sean Spicer was no victim. He willingly served a president who asked him over and over again to lie. Rather than resist or quit, he repeatedly stood behind the podium, the face and voice of the White House, and lied. Ryan Lizza recounted:

"Spicer defended Trump's lie about how there were three million fraudulent votes in the 2016 election. He spent weeks using shifting stories to defend Trump's lie about President Barack Obama wiretapping Trump Tower. In trying to explain the urgency of the attack on Syria, Spicer explained, 'You had someone as despicable as Hitler, who didn't even sink to using chemical weapons.' ...

Advertisement

"He lied about the nature of the meeting at Trump Tower in June, 2016, between senior Trump-campaign officials and several people claiming to have information about Hillary Clinton from the Russian government. "There was nothing, as far as we know, that would lead anyone to believe that there was anything except for discussion about adoption," Spicer claimed, bizarrely, because Donald Trump, Jr., had already admitted that the meeting was about Russian dirt on Clinton."

He insulted and demeaned the free press, continuing an unprecedented assault on objective sources of truth.

Advertisement

Melissa McCarthy, in her uproarious impersonation of Spicer (or more like an inhabiting of Spicer) on "Saturday Night Live," arguably did more than any single human in peeling the bark off the dishonest press secretary. She exposed the peculiar mix of inarticulateness, obnoxiousness and duplicitousness that defined not only Spicer but also his boss.

For this, you'd expect that in his post-White House life, he would receive the scorn and ostracism of liberal elites, and certainly from the media, right? You'd be wrong.

He's the toast of the towns, the elite ones. He's a guest on Jimmy Kimmel's show, yukking it up about, well, about lying. The Los Angeles Times recounted: "According to Spicer, journalists cross a line when 'they go on Twitter, or on other social media, and start to perpetuate myths.' " Yes sirree, what a laugh riot. Still trying to discredit the press that dares to expose his and his ex-boss' lies.

He was also featured at the 2017 Emmy Awards, appearing on stage with host Stephen Colbert pushing the rolling podium McCarthy used as a prop on "Saturday Night Live."

They should be teaching a course at Harvard on ethics and democracy just using Spicer's tenure as an example of the threats to free societies when its leaders abscond with the truth and delegitimize the media. Well, not exactly.

Harvard's Kennedy School of Government has extended him a visiting fellowship. No, really. The Kennedy School (full disclosure: I have accepted an invitation to speak later this month) was recently shamed into revoking the visiting fellowship of Chelsea Manning, convicted for betraying her country and leaking classified material. (President Barack Obama, in one of the most controversial actions of his presidency, commuted her sentence.)

Reflecting the widespread outrage of the intelligence community over the Manning commutation, CIA Director Mike Pompeo withdrew from a scheduled appearance at Harvard, and ex-acting CIA director Michael Morell resigned as a senior fellow at Kennedy. (Pompeo cited the decision of "Harvard to place its stamp of approval upon [Manning's] treasonous actions.") The school's dean, Douglas Elmendorf, withdrew the visiting fellowship invitation to Manning.

And yet the invitation to Spicer still stands. Elmendorf wrote about Manning:

Advertisement

"I see more clearly now that many people view a Visiting Fellow title as an honorific, so we should weigh that consideration when offering invitations. In particular, I think we should weigh, for each potential visitor, what members of the Kennedy School community could learn from that person's visit against the extent to which that person's conduct fulfills the values of public service to which we aspire. This balance is not always easy to determine, and reasonable people can disagree about where to strike the balance for specific people. Any determination should start with the presumption that more speech is better than less."

Spicer is not in the same moral universe as Manning. Nevertheless, as with Manning, the fellowship for Spicer will be viewed as "honorific," and hence a validation of his actions, which are defined almost entirely by the lies he told. Harvard absolutely should invite those who have served in this administration, although I grant you, the pickings are slim. But why not invite Sally Yates or James Comey? They'd surely have important lessons to depart about the obligations of public servants. Perhaps Elmendorf will reconsider his invitation to Spicer as well.

From Hollywood and Cambridge, Massachusetts, Spicer has gotten not only a second chance but also a pat on the back after disgracing the institution of the presidency and waging war on a free press. And you wonder why our politics and culture have gone to seed?

Washington Post

Jennifer Rubin writes the Right Turn blog for The Post, offering reported opinion from a conservative perspective.
Arlington Heights resident Dino Bolos took a picture of a carved rotisserie chicken with the bones removed that was left by a tree in Centennial Park in the village. Bolos and other residents who live near the park have spotted numerous prepared meals inside the park lately, suspecting that someone is trying to feed coyotes. (Courtesy of Dino Bolos)

Arlington Heights officials are warning residents about the dangers of catering food for wildlife after some residents recently have suspected a mystery benefactor of leaving steak, salmon and rotisserie chicken in a park for area coyotes to feast on.

Dino Bolos, 43, who lives in the Northgate neighborhood with his wife and their four children, said he first noticed the carefully prepared meals earlier this summer under a tree in Centennial Park after his dog, Lucy, lunged on her leash to try and retrieve a tempting pork chop.

Advertisement

Even though he assumed the chop was left behind by someone picnicking in the park, Bolos said he discovered that someone had carefully arranged an entire slab of ribs beneath the same tree a week later.

Bolos said that while he and his neighbors have not yet witnessed a person drop off the food, the consensus among residents is that someone is leaving prepared meals for the coyotes that are frequently sighted in the park and adjacent neighborhood.

Advertisement

"Every week, there is something different that's left behind ... hard boiled and scrambled eggs, salmon, steaks and a whole rotisserie chicken ... and everything is neatly set up at the base of the tree," Bolos said. "I'm trying to figure out why they're doing this because no one wants coyotes around."

Arlington Heights Park District spokeswoman Anita Pacheco said park district employees are monitoring the area "to remove any food that could attract coyotes," even though the person leaving behind the food may have good intentions.

"Additionally, we are partnering with the Northgate (Homeowners Association) to inform residents to refrain from leaving food out, as a precautionary measure," Pacheco said. "Coyotes are a natural part of the ecosystem, and we've posted information signs in parks where we've been made aware that they've been sighted."

One of the many dangers of feeding coyotes is the potential that the gesture will desensitize the animals to human encounters, said Robert Kostka, public service officer in Arlington Heights.

Kostka said the Arlington Heights Police Department has not received any reports regarding food being left at Centennial Park. But, he said, the action likely would be deemed a nuisance, resulting in a ticket for violating the village code since it would involve food being left at a public park.

"The grander issue is, you don't really know what you are feeding when you put things out, and you can easily draw every type of animal, like skunks, racoons and possums," Kostka said. "But the real issue is it could be jeopardizing the safety of park users."

Stanley Gehrt, a professor at the Ohio State University and a principal investigator with the Coyote Project in Cook County, said more people in recent years have started to leave food for coyotes, which commonly are seen throughout the region.

"It happens all the time across the Chicago area, mainly people leaving coyotes dog food, but also things like bologna sandwiches and chicken carcasses," Gehrt said.

Advertisement

People who leave the food typically select the same location, often a park or cemetery, so the coyote can find the meal easily, Gehrt said. But they also do it to try and catch a glimpse of the wild animal.

"Some people think they're helping the animals, but we strongly discourage feeding coyote because it only makes them more dependent and more habituated with people, which is not good thing for anyone," Gehrt said, adding, "If you want to appreciate the coyote, you need to know they don't need anything from us to persevere or protect them."

While food being prepared in memory of loved ones who have died is inherent to some cultural or religious rituals, one Chicago-area anthropologist said he doubts this is the case with the meals being left at Centennial Park.

"There are many cultures, for example in Mexico, people leave food at grave sites or at altars commemorating the dead," said Robert Launay, a Northwestern University professor with the school's anthropology department. "Trees, however, do not strike a chord."

Launay said one possible explanation for the food at Centennial Park could be that someone is trying to leave meals for a homeless person.

Despite the lingering mystery, Arlington Heights resident Dick Sarnowski said he suspects whoever is leaving the food at Centennial Park is determined to remain anonymous since the drop-offs usually happen after dusk.

Advertisement

Sarnowski, who lives in the Northgate neighborhood, also questioned if the food might be tainted, and left by someone with nefarious intent rather than an ill-advised animal lover.

"What if it's someone who wants to do the opposite of help the coyote, like poison them, which would put the dogs in the neighborhood at risk, too," Sarnowski said. "Whoever it is, it seems to me like they must be getting a thrill, but nothing positive can come out of this."

kcullotta@tribpub.com

Twitter @kcullotta
A mural titled "Heart of America" being painted in Aurora is designed to celebrate the diverse cultures that are part of the city  and the role immigrants have had in its growth.

Alejandro Loccoco of Guadalajara, Mexico, arrived recently to begin work on a 13- by 40-foot mural on the west wall of the second floor of the Santori Public Library at 101 S. River St. in downtown Aurora.

Advertisement

The mural idea came about after 2nd Ward Alderman Juany Garza was approached by Pedro Garcia Aguilar, the general coordinator of the Council of Hispanic Communities. The council is working on several cultural exchanges with Aurora, including the mural project.

Garza said the mural idea was first mentioned in November 2016 and that there have been many challenges that had to be overcome before it became a reality.

Advertisement

She said that originally, the mural was going to be put at Brady Elementary School in the East Aurora School District. The school is in Garza's ward and "has a large Latino population," she said.

Planning for the mural was not complete in time for Loccoco to paint at the school during the summer, and once the school year started it would not be ideal to block of an area of the building while Loccoco worked, said Dan Barreiro, chief Community Services officer with the city of Aurora who is also an East Aurora School District 131 board member.

Brady also is not accessible to the entire city, Barreiro said. The library, on the other hand, is open to all and has more extensive hours than a school building, he said.

The Brady mural was set to be specific to the school's neighborhood, while the library mural will be more general, Barreiro said. The library mural is set to be large, and there were not many walls in the city that were both large enough and could be blocked off while Loccoco works, he said.

"Plus, since it will be in a public building that is a destination for thousands, it will be a huge asset for Aurora that will enrich our multicultural community in many ways," he said.

Garza said her preference all along was to have the mural created at the library and when the board there gave the green light, things moved quickly.

"I know this artist in Mexico and he is very famous there and has done paintings in other parts of the world," Garza said. "This would cost more than $150,000, but he's doing it for free. The only cost is putting him up in a hotel here and local restaurants are providing his food."

Loccoco has said he is happy about the mural's location, which because it is inside it will preserve the art's integrity for many years to come.

Advertisement

"Outdoor murals change over time," Loccoco said in a press release from the library. "This mural will still be here when we're gone."

Library officials said the artist loved the location right from the state.

"When he arrived, he actually hugged the wall and has expanded the mural, which was originally supposed to be only 8 feet high," said library Communications Manager Amy Roth.

The mural was inspired by the union of cultures, languages and customs of both people born in the United States and those coming from all of Latin America, Loccoco said in the release, adding that he wants to honor and seek bonds of friendship and dignity between different cultures and races.

"We are pleased that Mr. Loccoco chose the city of Aurora and the Aurora Public Library to host this original work," said Library Director Daisy Porter-Reynolds. "We love that he appreciates Aurora's diversity and rich Hispanic heritage as much as we do, and we are honored that the Santori Library was asked to provide the canvas for his creativity."

Roth added that the mural will "mirror the dream catcher sculpture" that was erected at the library before the new facility opened.

Advertisement

"That sculpture was created by Jerry Savage, a retired University of Illinois professor, and it's interesting that the messages of both pieces are similar, even though they were created by totally different artists," Roth said.

The artist plans to present a program Thursday in rooms 125 and 126 of the library to explain the creative process and meaning of the mural, which is being created using a charcoal and mixed acrylic technique. The program will be in Spanish with English translation.

A formal invitation-only ribbon cutting is planned at the library Sept. 29.

"This is going to be here for many years to come, and we hope people will look back and say this was something interesting and wonderful that was done in 2017," Roth said.

For Garza, the mural will offer an important message.

"To me, the message of this is about the process of immigrants coming to this country regardless of race and how every day is challenge to have a better life," Garza said.

Advertisement

David Sharos is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News. Beacon-News reporter Sarah Freishtat contributed to this story.
Police officials gather outside Geneva High School Monday after a student doused himself with gasoline. The student was stopped from doing anything further, school district officials said. (Linda Girardi/The Beacon-News )

A Geneva High School student on Monday morning poured gasoline onto himself out of a water bottle in the school's cafeteria, but he was stopped by students and staff from doing anything further, according to a news release from Geneva School District.

The incident happened about 7:30 a.m., according to the release. The student was sent to a local hospital. No other students were injured.

Advertisement

The school was put on a soft lockdown for a time, and students were kept away from the cafeteria, which is on the east side of the high school campus. The area was cleaned by the Geneva Fire Department in what was described as a hazardous material incident, and the cafeteria was reopened.

Students resumed their normal school day later in the morning, according to the release.

Advertisement

Geneva Police Cmdr. Julie Nash said the Geneva Fire Department responded to the school on a report of "hazardous material."

She said the incident took place in the cafeteria where some students assemble prior to going to their classes. She said students and staff grabbed the individual to end the incident.

"The school is safe and students are safe. Classes are continuing as planned. Students were rerouted while safe clean-up was taking place," Nash said on the scene Monday.

She could offer no update on the condition of the student sent to the hospital.

"As this time we are not commenting on the medical condition of anybody," she said.

Linda Girardi is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.
The second man charged in a 2012 sexual assault case involving a Joliet woman in Aurora pleaded guilty Monday morning to a lesser charge that does not require him to register as a sex offender.

Corderro Pollard, whose trial was scheduled to begin Monday at the Kane County Judicial Center in St. Charles, pleaded guilty to simple battery, a class A misdemeanor, in exchange for a sentence involving 180 days of work release, 24 months of probation, sex offender probation and evaluation, a $500 fine, and $400 in court costs.

Advertisement

He is to obtain the sex offender evaluation within 90 days and follow any recommendations. Pollard, now 27, will receive credit for 16 days served in jail before he was released on bond.

Dropping felony sex assault charges, Kane County Circuit Judge John A. Barsanti accepted Pollard's plea in open court after breaking for several minutes to confer with attorneys for both sides. Pollard, who wore a gray suit to the courthouse Monday, previously pleaded not guilty to aggravated criminal sexual assault and criminal sexual assault.

Advertisement

"This is a resolution to a very old case that held the defendant accountable and that the victim was in agreement with," said Kane County State's Attorney Joseph McMahon.

Pollard and two other men were initially accused of having sex with the woman while she was too intoxicated to consent in August 2012 after a night of drinking ended at the Kenilworth Avenue residence where, according to court records, Pollard and co-defendant Eric Stallworth were roommates.

Stallworth and Pollard both admitted to having sex with the woman while in the same room at the same time, and in the presence of each other, prosecutors stated in court documents.

Stallworth and Shammrie Brown were also charged with sex assault after the initial Aurora police investigation, the Beacon-News reported. Stallworth pleaded guilty to unlawful restraint in 2015 and was sentenced to probation and periodic imprisonment.

Prosecutors accused Brown of failing to intervene on the woman's behalf during the alleged assault, but dropped the initial case against Brown and instead charged him with misdemeanor battery. He is next due in court Sept. 26.

Brown was listed in court filings as a potential witness for prosecutors, who also sought to introduce statements the woman made to medical personnel, records show.

hleone@tribpub.com

Twitter @hannahmleone
The former Illinois Youth Center prison in Joliet has been transformed into a mental health treatment unit male inmates with severe mental illness. (Alicia Fabbre/Daily Southtown )

Illinois Department of Corrections officials Thursday showed off what will soon be the state's largest residential facility for mentally ill inmates.

The former Illinois Youth Center prison in Joliet has been transformed into a mental health treatment unit for male inmates with severe mental illness. The facility will be the largest of its kind in Illinois and will begin accepting inmates by year's end. The renovation project cost $17 million, officials said.

Advertisement

The facility, and smaller ones like it, will address concerns stemming from a 2007 class action lawsuit regarding the treatment of mentally ill inmates in Illinois prisons. The state settled the lawsuit in 2015. Residential treatment units also will be opened at the Dixon, Pontiac and Logan prisons for inmates with less severe needs. The department also operates two buildings at the Elgin Mental Health Center for male and female inmates with mental illness who need to be hospitalized.

Previously, the state's 10,000 to 12,000 mentally ill inmates were designated to receive "special treatment" and received some services, but did not have special areas of the prisons to address their needs.

Advertisement

"Nobody ever thought we'd become the state's mental health system," Illinois Department of Corrections Director John Baldwin said during an open house at the Joliet Treatment Center Thursday. "But we are, and it's time we started acting like it.

"We need to have a response for all the people who come to us."

Renovations at the former youth prison, which closed in 2013 due to budget cuts, included adding interior windows to every cell and cell door and replacing old furniture with suicide-resistant furniture. Double barbed-wire fencing also was added to increase security within the facility.

Officials said everything at the center is geared toward treatment. The center, which has beds for more than 486 inmates, is a step-down facility meaning inmates will work toward the goal of moving out of the facility into a general prison or back into the community once their terms are up. Even within the facility there are portions of the center that are geared toward more intensive treatment and supervision and areas that are less restrictive for inmates who have progressed in their treatment.

Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday >

"When you come here you are coming to work on getting better," said Dr. Melvin Hinton, IDOC's chief of mental health services.

In addition to correction treatment officers, the facility also will have a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors and other professionals to work with inmates. The center's vocational building will hold a "treatment mall" where inmates will come to receive services in group or individual settings.

Each inmate will receive 15 hours of structured activities and 15 hours of non-structured activity time per week.

"Our focus is to improve their overall level of function," Hinton said.

Advertisement

Throughout the tour he stressed how residents at the facility will eventually return to the community and that the treatment they receive in prison will aid in their return to their communities.

"Prisons weren't originally designed (to treat) mental health," Hinton said. "It's our task and we have embraced that task and we will meet it."

Alicia Fabbre is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
A Palos Township trustee whose social media comments about Middle Eastern immigrants have set off months of protests and sparked calls for her resignation apologized for the remarks but stated she has no intention of resigning.

In a statement released late Monday morning, Sharon Brannigan, a former Republican congressional candidate who ran unopposed in April's township election, said she was not anti-Muslim or anti-immigrant and apologized that her comments had been interpreted as such.

Advertisement

"Although my comments were not intended as being anti-Arab or anti-Muslim, I acknowledge that some residents felt they were, and for that I am sorry," the statement reads. "After deep reflection, I can honestly say that my words were poorly crafted and my feelings were inadequately expressed. Racism and discrimination is not my intent and is not in my heart."

The trustee, whose presence has attracted large numbers of protesters at each of the last three Palos Township board meetings, first came under fire in late June after suggesting on Facebook that the area's schools were filling with undocumented Middle Eastern students.

Advertisement

"Why are all our schools filling with Middle East students without proper documentation? What is Dan Lipinski 3rd district rep. (D) doing about it?" she wrote.

In another post, Brannigan expressed her aversion to movies made by "very wealthy liberals" who support Democrats like "Barack Hussein Obama," and again criticized Lipinski for not doing more to restrict Middle Eastern immigration.

"In the 3rd district here in Illinois, our demographics include 25% Muslims of which very few integrate within the communities keeping themselves and their activities hidden from the general population," she wrote. "Everywhere you turn, from Orland Park to Bridgeview, those numbers are increasing in leaps and bounds. We are allowing these people whether they have peaceful intentions or not into our country without question."

Palos Township, which encompasses all or portions of Bridgeview, Hickory Hills, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Palos Park, Worth and Willow Springs, has one of the largest Arab populations in the state.

In the wake of Brannigan's comments, dozens of Arab Americans and their allies, young and old, have picketed outside Palos Township offices before monthly board meetings to demand that she resign. A #ResignBrannigan petition launched online by the activist group Take On Hate, which is leading a coalition of groups calling for the trustee's ouster, has received 1,030 signatures to date.

Brannigan defended her comments at the township's July board meeting by invoking her First Amendment right to free speech. She said her statement about undocumented immigrants filling local schools, which Palos Consolidated School District 118 trustee Terry Heafey condemned as "without fact or evidence," was meant to bring awareness to the community's growing tax burden and the nation's lax immigration system.

"I am very happy to see so many of you have come to this meeting with the same concerns, because after all, we all pay our fair share of property taxes and do not want to see poor mismanagement of that," Brannigan said, before reciting the First Amendment.

Two days later, Cook County Board president Toni Preckwinkle released a statement calling on Brannigan to resign her seat on Cook County's Commission on Women's Issues, saying, in part, "Such viewpoints certainly do not reflect our values nor, in my opinion, the kind of representation we want on the commission."

Advertisement

Catherine Bronson, an assistant teaching professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Notre Dame, speaks to a group of activists gathered outside the Palos Township office on July 10, 2017 to call for the resignation of Trustee Sharon Brannigan. (Zak Koeske / Daily Southtown)

Brannigan vacated the county commission seat a short time later, citing the difficulty of making it to downtown meetings from the south suburbs, and later released a statement on her website that acknowledged the "quickfire selection of language" used in her controversial Facebook posts "was not the best choice and unintentionally far too broad in scope."

She stopped short of apologizing in that statement but did say she was humbled and would "commit to being more sensitive and conscious to this moving forward."

Brannigan's statement Monday marks the first time she has apologized for the comments and offered publicly to meet with Arab American residents.

She said via email that she had already reached out to leaders of the township's Arab community in hopes of improving relations and fostering a better understanding between them.

She does not, however, plan to resign, she said.

"I am beyond open and happy to sit with anyone who has legitimate concerns and explain my true intent," Brannigan said. "I believe responsible public officials need to know when they do right and when they do wrong.

Advertisement

Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday >

"Again, I regret that my words offended anyone. That was not my intent. Going forward, it is my hope that we can work together as a community for the benefit of everyone who lives in Palos Township be they Irish, Arab, Muslim, Christian, Italian, Hispanic, Jewish or Middle Eastern."

The coalition of activist groups leading the #ResignBrannigan campaign responded that they would not accept her apology, which it deemed "insincere," "an example of political expediency," and "too little, too late."

"We asked for this apology months ago when it became clear that Brannigan had written racist social media posts attacking the township's Arabs and Muslims, as well as its Middle East [sic] students," Bassem Kawar, advocacy specialist for the Campaign to Take On Hate, said in a statement. "She refused back then to apologize, and is only doing this now to try to salvage her political career. We won't accept it."

The activists, who have been steadfast in calling for nothing less than Brannigan's resignation, said plans were being made to protest at the township's next meeting on Oct. 9

"For us, the outcome that the Muslim and Arab community wants is very simple," activist and organizer Rush Darwish said after the July 10 meeting. "This trustee must resign  must resign her post. And until that happens, this crowd you saw here tonight, you will continue seeing until that result is met."

zkoeske@tribpub.com

Advertisement

Twitter @ZakKoeske
Daniel Vazquez, of Woodstock, drove from the Chicago suburbs to the Houston area on Friday to deliver toiletries, clothes, books and other items to victims of Hurricane Harvey. Vazquez is a former firefighter who said the news of displaced Texans and Louisianans moved him to set up a donation drive to help assist in hurricane relief. (Daniel Vazquez)

As a firefighter in Blue Island, Daniel Vasquez found a way to assist those in times of emergencies.

An injury in 2010 forced the former Streamwood resident out of firefighting after only 10 years, but his penchant to help those remained.

Advertisement

When Hurricane Harvey hit the Gulf Coast, devastating communities in Texas and Louisiana, Vasquez wanted to help. The Streamwood native left for Texas Friday with a pickup truck, a small trailer and numerous supplies to hand out to those in need.

"You miss doing all that, this feels like it helps me get back into it, helping whoever I can," Vasquez, 37, said.

Advertisement

Vasquez left his Woodstock home with more than two dozen garbage bags filled with clothes, more than 200 toothbrushes, 50 cases of water, and countless numbers of toiletries like deodorants, disinfectant wipes, toilet paper and bandages.

Everything was donated to Vasquez, he said  including the truck and trailer. Other notable items he will be handing out are make-up supplies and comic books. He said the approximately 300 comic books were donated by a Schaumburg store. While make-up and reading material aren't essentials, he said they provide comforting distractions.

A GoFundMe account he set up immediately after Harvey struck has raised almost $2,800, according to the account page.

Monetary donations helped Vasquez gather approximately 500 meals-ready-to-eat rations, far more than he anticipated. The meals are already in a Texas warehouse, waiting for him to arrive from his 17-hour-drive, Vasquez said.

What was supposed to be only a monetary drive grew, he said. "As I was collecting donations, people were asking if I could take clothes and water and food and goods, and it just grew from there," he said.

Beverly Foy, who works with Vasquez at Elgin-based BDG International, said upon his first day back at work after Harvey hit, Vasquez was already plotting his ambitious plan. Foy helped Vasquez gather donations through their work, providing "the muscle" while he thought it up and served as "the mind" of the plan, she said.

"He wants to reach people in places that no one has been to yet," Foy said.

In Texas, Vasquez will be staying with Christina Jakubowski, a childhood friend from growing up in Streamwood. Jakubowski said it has been 20 years since they saw each other, although they kept in contact through social media.

Advertisement

"For somebody that doesn't live here and wants to accomplish thatmy first reaction was if you need a place to stay, you come stay with me," said Jakubowski, who lives in Spring, about 25 miles north of downtown Houston.

While Jakubowski's second-floor apartment was spared from Harvey, the same cannot be said about others in the vicinity, she said. Jakubowski cannot work from her office yet because of water damage, nearby creek banks overflowed, first-floor apartments in surrounding communities had six to seven feet of water in them, and trips to retailers still consist of coming up empty handed for items like containers and bins, she said.

To hear people like Vasquez are going beyond to help is "not surprising, I'm really not," she said. "He is such a nice guy and everybody knows that."

raguerrero@tribpub.com
The Elmwood Park library youth area upgrades included fresh paint, as shown in this photo from 2015. An upcoming event will help fund additional renovations. (Patrick Gorski/Pioneer Press )

The Elmwood Park Public Library has planned an after-hours fundraiser, the Gatsby Gala, for 8 p.m. Sept. 30.

The event takes place at the library, 1 W. Conti Parkway, Elmwood Park. According to a news release, the event will help fund a final round of renovations at the library.

Advertisement

The release noted that recent upgrades at the library included new private study rooms, an interactive kids play area and fresh paint on the walls. The final stage of renovations will include a modernized story room and a lobby remodeling with a snack space, the release stated.

Tickets will be $20 and include two drinks, hors d'oeuvres and a photo booth picture. It is for those ages 21 and older, and IDs will be checked. The release indicated that attendees are encouraged to dress up, but it's not required.

Advertisement

The event will be a 1920s-themed night, to feature jazz music, dancing, light refreshments and signature drinks. There will be prize drawings, a beer-tasting station and a crafting table.

For information, call 708-453-7645.

Walk-a-thon set:

Berkeley School District 87 has planned a walk-a-thon event for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. The event takes place from 9 to 10 a.m. Sept. 23 at the parking lot of St. Domitilla Church, 4940 Washington St., Hillside.

The event will be a 1.5-mile route. According to a news release, donations will help support the students of Sabine Pass Independent School District in Texas. Transportation from Northlake Middle School will be available. A bus will leave at 8:30 a.m. and return at about 10:30 a.m.

For information, visit www.berkeley87.org.

Free vision screenings:

Free vision screenings for those 6 months to 6 years old will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 at The Salvation Army Norridge Citadel, 8354 W. Foster Ave., Norridge.

Advertisement

It is presented by Lions Club 1-A Voices and The Salvation Army.

For information, contact Al Hanson at lionclubal@gmail.com or 224-563-8447.
A Lake Villa man was being held Monday in lieu of $75,000 bail, police say, he pretended to shoot an officer, nearly hit the officer escaping, then did the same to another officer who shot him with a stun gun before the suspect escaped a second time.

David L. Larsen, 68, of the 39000 block of Lake Avenue in unincorporated Lake Villa, was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, a Class 3 felony punishable by 2 to 5 years imprisonment, aggravated assault and two charges of aggravated fleeing a police officer, according to Geoff Guttschow, commander of operations for the Antioch Police Department.

Advertisement

On Thursday, an off-duty Antioch police officer was returning to the village after a training session in a marked police vehicle when he noticed a silver vehicle appeared to be following him, Guttschow said. The officer said the man inside the vehicle was flailing his arms and appeared to be in an agitated state, and he followed the officer through several turns, he said.

The officer pulled into the main driveway of the police station at 433 Orchard Street where the officer activated his emergency lights and stopped his vehicle to initiate contact with the man.

Advertisement

Guttschow said the suspect stopped his car and then held his hand out the window in a universal handgun gesture and pointed in the officers direction, mimicking the action of a gun discharging. As the officer attempted to confront the suspect, the man put his car in gear and fled, nearly hitting a second officer who was responding to the scene and driving over a sidewalk, he said.

A short chase ensued, but it was discontinued for safety reasons. The officer who was nearly hit suffered minor injuries jumping out of the path of the vehicle. Another officer spotted the suspect a short time later at the intersection of Orchard and Main streets, and again the suspect was yelling aggressively at the officer and making similar handgun gestures at the officer while shouting "bang," Guttschow said.

The officer shot the suspect with a stun gun device through the open window, but once again he fled and police did not pursue him because of the large gathering of people for a farmer's market that was underway. The following day, police got a warrant for his arrest and Lake County Sheriff's Office deputies with the warrants division apprehended him at his home in Lake Villa Township, he said.

According to court records Larsen was charged with resisting arrest when sheriff's deputies tried to take him into custody. Court records also indicate he was charged this year for disobeying a red light and he has an active foreclosure case.

fabderholden@tribpub.com

Twitter @abderholden
One man was being held Monday on $1 million bail and Zion police are still searching for a second suspect in an armed robbery at a cellphone store last week on Sheridan Road.

According to a statement issued Friday by Zion police, an armed robbery was reported Thursday just after 10:30 a.m. at a Verizon Wireless store at 2109 Sheridan. "The caller reported that a male/black subject wearing a striped shirt and a wig entered the store, displayed a black handgun, and took cash and electronic devices before fleeing out the back door of the store," the statement added.

Advertisement

According to police, responding officers located the vehicle the suspects departed in sitting in the 3400 block of Galilee Avenue, and "two suspects abandoned the vehicle there and fled on foot."

Police arrested Cordero Everett, 30, of Chicago a short distance away, but the second suspect was able to elude the officers, police report. A Waukegan K-9 unit was called in to track the suspect but was unsuccessful, according to the statement.

Advertisement

Officers recovered a bag containing the stolen electronic devices in the 1900 block of 33rd Street, according to statement, adding that they also recovered a striped shirt and wig in the 3400 block of Galilee Avenue.

Police report Everett was charged with armed robbery, robbery and burglary and went to bond court Friday, where his bail was set at $1 million.

The police statement added that the investigation to identify the second suspect is ongoing.

fabderholden@tribpub.com

Twitter @abderholden
Waukegan city officials violated the state's open records law by withholding a police report concerning Waukegan District 60 superintendent's missing personnel file, the Illinois Attorney General's office ruled Monday.

The city failed to explain how the disclosure of most of the police report's contents would interfere with or obstruct the investigation, Assistant Attorney General Valerie Calhoun said in a letter to the News-Sun and city of Waukegan.

Advertisement

The News-Sun had requested the review after the Waukegan Police Department denied a May request from the News-Sun for the police report, claiming its disclosure "would interfere with pending or actually and reasonably contemplated law enforcement proceedings."

Superintendent Theresa Plascencia's personnel file was discovered missing after the News-Sun had requested a copy of her resume and other application materials, the school district's attorney told the newspaper at the time.

Advertisement

The case remains open, but the Police Department's Investigations Division could not determine who took the file, Cmdr. Joe Florip said in an email Monday. If new evidence surfaces, the case will be revisited, he said.

An internal investigation identified possible suspects but wasn't able to conclusively identify who took the file, said school board members who were briefed on the matter.

The city had argued in a June letter to the attorney general's office that releasing the police report  including all the general information on the first page and the entire narrative on the second page  could compromise the list of suspects or potential witnesses before the police would be interview them.

Calhoun said in her letter the attorney general's office agreed with the argument concerning potential suspects and witnesses, but that did not explain how any of the other information in the report would hinder an investigation.

She requested the city release to the News-Sun a copy of the police report that redacts certain information, including sections that would identify the two witnesses interviewed, according to the letter.

City attorney Bob Long said Monday evening he had not seen the letter from the Attorney Generals Office and so could not comment.

emcoleman@tribpub.com

Twitter @mekcoleman
Ugly building

Has anyone noticed the picture of the Obama Presidential Library Center they've shown in the paper? It's the ugliest thing I've ever seen. It look like something from the slum area that needs to be torn down.

Advertisement

It's who you know

Not that I'm not a conspiracy theorist or something like that, but I'm going to be interested in finding out who's related to whose buddy or a friend of somebody's wife that married somebody's cousin who got the contract for the Waukegan school district's food service. I just wonder who knows somebody who's married to somebody. We all know how that works.

Advertisement

Encouraging sign

I'm absolutely thrilled to hear about Waukegan's new initiative for a cleanup. This is welcome news. I hope they include signs up in the parkway, flappy signs, and triangular pennants flapping in the wind above grand openings that occurred two and three years ago. They're on the right track, let's hope they do it correctly.

Wrong is wrong

All these leftists that call in about this immigration issue, and then you've got Rahm Emmanuel on the front page asking for court relief, judicial relief. It's ridiculous. Illegal immigration is illegal. Everyone wants to give their warm and fuzzy, heart-felt opinion about it, but it's illegal. It's illegal for you to enter this country without the proper process. This DACA program was illegal for President Obama to institute. No one cares about laws anymore. Emmanuel should be run out of office and impeached immediately because he's talking about breaking the law. This is insanity. This country has become insane because we don't want to obey laws. President Obama's Department of Justice picked and chose what laws to enforce and what not to. They even sued Arizona for trying to enforce laws on the books.

No choice

This is in regards to that Round Lake federal suit filed about a police shooting. I think that police officer should be commended. That guy was coming at her with glass and he was on drugs heavily. She had no choice but to shoot him. What's got to stop are these villages and municipalities paying these people money because their kid got killed.

Many thanks

Kudos to Waukegan's Animal Control Department. We called yesterday telling them we had a dead skunk in our backyard and, within a half-hour, they were there picking it up and taking it away. Thank you so much. We are truly impressed.

Advertisement

Misplaced blame

llegal immigrants, stop blaming Trump for the stopping of the DACA program. We owe nothing to any immigrant that comes into the United States. Stop leeching off the people that are paying to make this country go forward. Remember it was the citizens that voted Trump in. It wasn't Trump alone.

Democrats plan foiled

Somebody wrote in about what is going on here concerning illegal immigrants being legal. Well, Hillary was supposed to win the election, and the Democrats have allowed the illegals into this country because they wanted them for voters. They'll give them driver's licenses without a birth certificate. All you need is a driver's license and you can go vote. That's what the Democrats are counting on. They didn't think Trump was going to win, and now he's the fly in the ointment and it's screwing their system up and they don't like it. DACA was illegal by President Obama because he wanted the illegals to be here to vote for Hillary.

The real danger

Jeff Sessions and President Trump want Congress to act so that children under the DACA program can stay here legally. The real danger to this country is the growing number of people who don't care about the rule of law on which this nation was founded.

Advertisement

Editor's note

Talk of the County is a reader-generated column of opinions. If you see something you disagree with or think is incorrect, please tell us. Call us at 312-222-4554 or email talkofthecounty@tribpub.com. For a continuously updating blog of Talk of the County comments, go to newssunonline.com/talk.
About 2,500 trees were removed from the 40-acre parcel owned by the Archdioceses of Chicago near Butterfield Road and Winchester Road. The church is suing Libertyville after a prospective buyer was denied permits and later voided its purchasing contract. (Rick Kambic / Pioneer Press)

Libertyville's motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the Catholic Bishop of Chicago is scheduled for an Oct. 5 hearing, meanwhile both sides still appear willing to talk about the future of the 40 acres of open land along Butterfield Road where a proposed 148-house subdivision was denied permits earlier this year.

The village's latest move was filed in court Aug. 4, several weeks after paperwork was submitted requesting a jury trial. The motion to dismiss cites cases and legal criteria, ultimately arguing that the church's lawsuit is unclear.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, the Archdiocese in July met with concerned parishioners from Libertyville's St. Joseph Catholic Church and relayed a commitment to selling the land due to financial woes, according to individuals who attended the meeting.

Part of the original Mundelein Seminary, the 40-acre parcel was under contract to Lake Bluff-based development company The Roanoke Group, according to village documents. Plans for the houses included a mix of driveway and alley configurations with small yards for easy maintenance.

Advertisement

Throughout a seven-month zoning process that included numerous hearings, hundreds of people attended the meetings to oppose the project's density.

Village trustees voted unanimously March 21 to reject the project. Their comments covered a variety of conditions attached to the requested special use permit, namely safety issues and the potential impact on neighbors.

The Archdiocese filed a lawsuit June 19 and asked for a court to overrule Libertyville's decision and force the land to be rezoned and permits to be issued, according to the complaint. It also calls for current zoning to be changed before any new applications are filed instead of after a hearing.

When contacted by Pioneer Press, both sides said they're open to sitting down together and talking.

"We are looking forward to having the opportunity to meet with village officials to better understand their concerns and see if there is a mutually agreeable solution," the Archdiocese said in a Sept. 1 statement.

Libertyville Mayor Terry Weppler said last month he also wants to meet and talk about the issues.

"Part of this is working something out with the attorneys so we can have a meeting where both sides can speak openly without feeling like something that gets said will end up referenced in court," Weppler said.

However, both sides also said their legal strategies must proceed in the meantime.

Advertisement

Libertyville's motion to dismiss addresses the church's request for a "declaratory judgment" and case law that outlines three necessary criteria, one of which requires a clear controversy between two parties.

"Here, the complaint does not sufficiently identify the actual controversy that the plaintiff is asking the trial court to resolve," Libertyville's argument reads. "the denial of the zoning application and the decision to zone the property IB are two, distinct legislative decision, separated by many years."

One major point in the Archdiocese's June 19 lawsuit says The Roanoke Group terminated its more than $10 million purchasing contract.

Libertyville resident Jim Connell said he was one of 12 local parishioners who in July met with the real estate manager for the Archdiocese, and that $10 million was a central point of the discussion.

"A lot of the public and a lot of Catholics believe that the church has all this money and land, and that it's rich," Connell said. "He essentially laid out the fact that the church is in bad shape, very bad financial shape."

Although Connell said he was calm and mostly anxious to hear the church's point of view, he said others were very vocal, particularly about how their donations were being used.

Advertisement

"More than a few people plainly told them that as parishioners we are paying for both sides of this lawsuit and it doesn't feel good," Connell said. "The optics are horrible. It just doesn't look right."

The Archdiocese told the Libertyville residents that membership in the Catholic Church is declining, and Chicago Archbishop Blase Cupich is moving forward with plans to consolidate shrinking congregations and cut costs, Connell said.

One parishioner, according to Connell, suggested addressing the "elephant in the room," which he said was the ongoing saga of the church being sued over priest sexual misconduct.

"He was very forthcoming," Connell said. "He said that absolutely is a factor, among other things."

Several ideas were reviewed, Connell said. But ultimately, he said everything boiled down to a need to sell the land for the best possible price.

"I came away feeling good about the meeting," Connell said. "Nothing was really resolved and there was no follow up, but them coming to the table for a forthright two-way conversation was instrumental. It really meant a lot."

Advertisement

The church acknowledged the Libertyville parishioners as well.

"We appreciate the residents taking the time to meet with us so that we could gain a broader perspective on the previously proposed development plan," the Archdiocese told Pioneer Press in its Sept. 1 email.

When contacted on Sept. 15 about its motive for selling the Libertyville property, the Archdiocese provided a statement regarding open land in general.

"The Archdiocese has a long-term program to sell our undeveloped assets, including real estate, to cover costs associated with lawsuits and other matters," the Sept. 15 statement reads.

Phil Brown, who lives near the proposed project and led the community opposition, said he was not at the meeting but believes the land poses a safety risk to pedestrians and motorists.

"I'd prefer it to remain open land in some fashion, but I respect the church's right to sell their property," Brown said. "What would make sense is if you had a senior development where there were no children and no commuters trying to get to the train in rush hour, like another Del Webb. We could probably live with that."

Advertisement

Connell said the possibility of a senior living subdivision was raised in the July meeting, but the Archdiocese said it's a tough real estate market to attract.

rkambic@pioneerlocal.com

Twitter @Rick_Kambic
Tara R. Arenz, 33, of Plainfield, is accused of making a false report to Naperville police of being robbed in a strip mall parking lot. (Naperville Police Department)

The woman accused of falsely reporting to Naperville police that she was robbed last week in a strip mall parking lot is free on bond and awaiting a preliminary court hearing.

Tara R. Arenz, 33, of the 5500 block of Hickory Grove Court in Plainfield, surrendered Saturday at the Naperville police station, Cmdr. Lou Cammiso confirmed. She was released after posting $25,000 bond, the required 10 percent of her $250,000 bail that had been set late last week by a Will County Circuit Court judge.

Advertisement

Arenz faces trial on felony charges of filing a false report and making a false alarm/complaint to 911, according to court records. Her arraignment date is pending.

Arenz could not immediately be reached for comment Monday.

Advertisement

Cammiso said Arenz told police she was robbed at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the parking lot of a strip mall at the northeast corner of 95th Street and Route 59.

In her statement, Arenz told police someone approached her from behind and placed something hard against her back. Cammiso said she told police she was then ordered to surrender her wallet and the two rings she was wearing.

Arenz did not provide a description of the alleged weapon, suspect or suspects or getaway vehicle.

"The filing of a false police report is something we take very seriously," Naperville police Chief Robert W. Marshall said Friday in a written statement. "This erroneous claim consumed a lot of department resources and caused a great deal of concern among members of our community, who feared for their safety as a result of the report. This kind of behavior will not be tolerated."

Online court documents indicated Arenz has no criminal record.

wbird@tribpub.com
Bill Wilson is passionate about what he does. Ask the Naperville resident about Bricks Wood Fired Pizza Cafe, and you can't help but get excited about the thin crust Neapolitan-style pizza.

"I had my first taste of wood-fired brick oven pizza during a vacation in San Diego at a place called Sammy's Woodfired Pizza," Wilson said. "I couldn't get it out of my head. The difference in this pizza from our Chicago stuff was unbelievable."

Advertisement

Wilson was determined to bring that kind of pizza to the Chicago area. So after doing years of research  which included many trips to Naples, Italy  Wilson and his wife, Donna, and their sons, brought the concept to Chicago.

Here's the dish on this local favorite.

Advertisement

What's on the menu? Neapolitan-style pizzas, artisan sandwiches, soups and salads are made to order using only the freshest ingredients. The cafe also serves an assortment of craft beer and wines by the glass. The gluten-free crust pizza was six years in the making, and Wilson said customers tell him it can't be beat.

About the owners: Around 2000, Bill Wilson was on a family vacation in San Diego when he fell in love with wood-fired brick oven pizza. He opened his first Bricks in Lombard in 2005. The Naperville location opened four years ago and is one of six Bricks in the Chicago area. Wilson lives in Naperville with his wife, who works behind-the-scenes to make Bricks possible.

A mission statement or philosophy? To bring "wood-fired, family inspired" pizza and hearty sandwiches, salads and soups to area diners.

What's the decor like? The massive wood-fired brick oven is front and center at this fast casual restaurant. Watch your pizza being made and baked while you wait, although that only takes about 90 seconds in the 850 degree oven. Neutral colors, wood tables and metal chairs give the interior an industrial vibe that is also warm and welcoming.

Food specialties: Neapolitan-style pizza is the centerpiece of Bricks Wood Fired Pizza Cafe menu. The classic Margherita pizza is popular, and includes hand-crushed tomatoes, imported fresh mozzarella cheese, virgin olive oil and fresh basil. The chicken pesto sandwich gets rave reviews and includes roasted chicken breast, sweet basil pesto, grilled bell peppers, balsamic, Roma tomatoes and mozzarella that is baked in the wood fired oven. Freshly made salads such as the chopped chicken or cranberry-apple and soups are also worth checking out.

Extras: Catering is available for large or small gatherings as well as corporate events.

We're different because: Wilson said when he started in the Chicago area more than a decade ago, wood-fired pizza was fairly unknown in the town where deep dish was the norm. He took his passion for thin crust, Neapolitan-style pizza and created a loyal following.

Price range: A 12-inch specialty pizza (serves one to two people) runs $12 to $14. Hearth-baked artisan sandwiches are around $7 and include a side of kettle chips. Hearty entree size salads are around $7 to $8, and homemade soups are around $4.

Advertisement

Logistics: Bricks Wood Fired Pizza Cafe is located in the Freedom Commons plaza at 1763 Freedom Drive in Naperville. It is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday. For more information, go to brickswoodfiredpizza.com or call 630-799-6860.
After she was booked into the DuPage County Jail for allegedly killing two children, a Naperville woman acted as if she were holding and then stabbing a baby, jail personnel testified Monday as the woman's trial entered its second week.

Two nurses described seeing Elzbieta Plackowska in the days after Oct. 30, 2012, when, according to prosecutors, she stabbed her son Justin, 7, to death, along with a 5-year-old named Olivia Dworakowski, whom Plackowska was babysitting at the Naperville condo where Olivia and her mother lived.

Advertisement

Prosecutors allege that Plackowska, 45, killed the children out of anger and resentment over an unhappy home life. Her defense attorneys contend that Plackowska was insane at the time, and they called a half-dozen witnesses Monday who interacted with her in the days before and after the alleged murders.

Orlando Venecia, a jail nurse, said he saw Plackowska in the hours after she was booked into the jail. He said she was "screaming" in a suicide watch cell and doing stabbing motions. Lt. Melissa Gustafson, a corrections officer, testified that she saw Plackowska act during that first night as if she were cradling a baby, then putting the baby down and making a stabbing motion at it.

Advertisement

Ivona Kuczynska, the director of nursing, said she saw Plackwoska on Nov. 1, 2012, two days after her arrest. Plackowska was agitated and speaking loudly in Polish about her recently deceased father and the devil, said Kuczynska, who is a native of Poland.

The nurse said she visited again four days later, when Plackowska was still on suicide watch and had not been issued any clothing, only a blanket. Kuczynska said she asked Plackowska to use her blanket to cover herself, and Plackowska asked which one. There was only one blanket in the cell, the nurse said, but Plackowska said she couldn't get that blanket because there was a baby sleeping there.

When Assistant Public Defender Kristen Nevdal asked Kuczynska if she believed Plackowska's behavior was truthful, the nurse said "absolutely."

Another defense witness who used Plackowska as a house cleaner said she looked "disheveled" with "wild hair" when she showed up on Oct. 29, 2012, to clean the home. The woman, Lisa Bailey, said she and Plackowska had spoken about the death of her father in Poland.

Her attorneys say her father died alone in Poland in the weeks before the Naperville stabbings, and that his body had not been found for several days. The death started Plackowska on a descent into insanity, her lawyers say.

The bench trial will continue Tuesday in the courtroom of Judge Robert Miller.

Clifford Ward is a freelance reporter.
Mother and daughter Tina and Kimberly Hartman, of Naperville, enjoy a piece of art work Kimberly bought to decorate her new house. Both attended the 32nd Naperville Riverwalk Fine Art Fair Saturday. (David Sharos/Naperville Sun )

Margaret Parkolap of Naperville is such a fan of art work  it gives her goosebumps.

"Look at me as I'm talking about this," Parkolap said, rubbing her arm as she sat under a tree Saturday along the Naperville Riverwalk. "I love this fair, and I feel art speaks to my soul. I appreciate the creativity off all of these people as some never get recognized."

Advertisement

Artists and fans of their work were the focus of the 32nd annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair, which brought thousands of visitors to Naperville's downtown area Saturday.

The juried art show, which continues to draw representatives from around the country, remains ranked among the top 100 shows nationally, according to organizer Debbie Venezia.

Advertisement

"We have about 130 artists here, which is down about a half dozen because of people affected by the hurricane in Florida," Venezia said. "About 60 percent of our artists are back from previous years, and about 40 percent are new. We like to keep things fresh."

Naperville artist Laurie Pollpeter Eskenazi returned to the annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair Saturday. The event continues Sunday. She said she makes "over 1,200 pieces of artwork a year." (David Sharos/Naperville Sun )

Venezia said this year's show featured art in 14 different mediums.

"We have excellence, merit, and best of show awards, and we try very hard to have a balanced show each year in terms of the type of artists we have and the work they do," she said.

Parkolap said "the truth about buying art" is that now she can afford the real stuff.

"Let's face it  when a lot of us started out, you had to decorate by buying things at Target, but at this stage in life, we can finally afford it," she said. "Not all of the work speaks to me, but many of these things are breathtaking."

Martie and Leon Gawron, of Aurora, stopped to visit the art fair Saturday and said they have been coming the last 17 years.

"I'm a big pottery person, and I'd have to say that most years, I come home with at least a little something," Martie said. "I'm a former educator, teacher, and principal, and I appreciate art, period. We're always surprised by something we see here."

"I enjoy the setting here and just sitting and listening to the music," added Leon Gawron. "Personally, I can appreciate the effort people put into their work."

Advertisement

Naperville artist Laurie Pollpeter Eskenazi said work for her is a "10 to 12 hours a day thing" and that coming to the annual art fair "is like a vacation."

"I work six days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day and sometimes on Sunday," Eskenazi said. "I've been at this show for at least 15 years, and I think people continue to buy things because of the patterns and textures I use. When people ask me how long it takes to make something, I tell them I've been training now for 35 years."

College students Trevor Nyland and Elizabeth Ladas, both of Naperville, said they were looking forward to enjoying "the creativity and expression" of the artists.

"I really like acrylic paintings, and I like to paint, myself, although I'm not that good," Ladas said.

Tina Hartman and her daughter Kimberly, of Naperville, said they were enjoying a mother-daughter day.

"I think art allows you to have a connection with the world, and I personally enjoy things done using acrylics," Tina Hartman said.

Advertisement

"For me, art makes you feel stuff, and it speaks to you. Because when look at a piece of jewelry or whatever, you feel the love that was put into it and realize it is a piece of that person you are experiencing," Kimberly Hartman said.

Debora Duran Geiger, whose work was commissioned by the Marquette group and can be seen along the Riverwalk near the Water St. District, traveled to the fair from Santa Fe, N.M.

"I work with fire ceramic tile, which has been used for thousands of years, and I tried to be as authentic and accurate as I could when I did the murals," Geiger said. "It's amazing to overhear people talking about it now and never realizing I was involved with the project."

Israel resident Yoram Gal, who has been a regular at the show since 2005, said he was happy to be back.

"I have a studio back home in Israel that I'm running with my wife, so I don't do as many shows here in the U.S. as I used to," Gal said as he applied paint to a canvas with his finger. "I always feel fortunate though to be back here."

David Sharos is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.
Bernhard Woodwork journeyman cabinetmaker D.J. Burns lifts a switch plate he carved out of a wood panel, which will be returned to the panel when finished  a demonstration of how, he said, his job can never be replaced by automation. (Irv Leavitt/Pioneer Press )

The owner of a Northbrook factory said he doesn't even want to admit how much he spent on a new robotic system being brought on line this month. But he says it'll be worth it to make Bernhard Woodwork more competitive and help solve a staffing problem that $27 per hour hasn't fixed.

"It's a matter of survival, to keep the business cost-effective. And I can't even find people for an apprenticeship program here in-house," CEO Mark Bernhard said of the company at 3670 Woodhead Drive. "For the most part, we have long-term employees, 12-15 years at least, all older, and we're going to lose a lot of people" to retirement.

Advertisement

He says he can't find enough quality employees, even through a union-run carpentry apprentice program that rises from pay of $10.84 an hour to journeyman's wages of $27.09 in four years. Health insurance premiums are paid 100 percent.

So now, wood will be loaded directly from trucks onto a conveyor, which will carry it through a computer system from Italy's SCM Group that will perform up to eight operations at a time. The boards will then be stacked, ready for assembly or more detailed work.

Advertisement

Bernhard said he employs about 40 journeyman, five apprentices and five laborers, and no one will lose jobs due to the robotics system. He needs everyone, he said.

"There's such a stigma against people who work with their hands," Bernhard said. "You talk to any of the trades, and it's the same thing."

The three heating, ventilation and air-conditioning companies that share Northbrook's Sky Harbor business park with Bernhard rarely take down their help-wanted signs. They say they have to fight other firms, based as far away as Wisconsin, for skilled employees.

But Vince Sticca, the man who runs the apprentice programs for the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, said that the employees are there, should someone want them.

"Sometimes Mr. Bernhardt takes the people, and sometimes he doesn't," he said of his apprentice candidates.

Bernhard said it's not that simple.

"A lot of them are not good apprentices, that come out of there," he said of those provided by the union consortium. He also said some aren't good fits for his company.

"Most live way on the South Side, Joliet, you name it, only a handful on the North Side," he said. "You have a guy going from Joliet to Northbrook, that's not a good chance for a long-term employee."

Advertisement

He said he needs people to stick around because apprenticeships are a big investment. The new worker doesn't get as much done as a journeyman, and "basically that apprentice is slowing down one of your journeymen for the first couple of years."

Though the entire consortium's apprentice program has an enrollment of about 3,000, the Local 1027 Mill Cabinet apprentice program that supplies Bernhard only has 40 people at any one time, said the union's Jimmy Martinek, who runs it. He said Bernhardt refuses candidates not only due to geography but also due to their outlooks.

"The majority of his employees are family guys, guys that love being cabinetmakers, not guys who think it's just a job," said Martinek, who worked for Bernhard for 21 years before heading to the union.

Bernhard heads a 53-year-old business that specializes in woodwork walls, cabinets and fixtures for commercial buildings and luxury houses. He said his company is a leader in the finely-crafted high-end work, but when a job includes "boxes"  simple cabinets  it's hard to compete with cheaper companies. That's where the newest automation comes in, he said.

It preserves the hand labor for the high-end work, and "there's a lot of money out there," he said. He pointed out a work station where flat, thin wooden electrical switch-covers were being carved out of the wooden panels that will surround them, so electrical outlets will become an almost seamless part of a wall.

Journeyman D. J. Burns was doing that job as he watched over an apprentice, Ebba Schmid, and a new journeyman, Oscar Gonzalez. He said that the switch-plate job was the kind that ensures automation can't push out people like him.

Advertisement

"There's always going to be a need for cabinetmakers," he said. "A CNC machine can't build this. No way."

Schmid, of Chicago, said she was referred to the apprentice program by Chicago Women in Trades, an organization that helps women get apprenticeships. She said she took the nine-week "pre-apprentice" program, then began her apprenticeship, which requires her to go back to school, free, for one day every three months.

Some of the problem attracting employees is perception, said Steve Silca, one of the last high school shop teachers in the area. He's taught at Glenbrook South in Glenview for six years, and at Ridgewood High in Norridge for seven years before that.

He said that one of his star Glenview students did a great carpentry job on a $2 million house over the summer.

"His parents are both cabinetmakers, but he's not going to become a cabinetmaker," Silca said. "He's going to be getting a college degree. For teenagers, going into the trades is not very sexy, even if their parents are in the trades."

He said that "Norridge is not as much of a high-rent area, but even at Ridgewood, male students were not thinking about becoming a carpenter, electrician, plumber."

Advertisement

Bernhard plant manager Jeff Morris said the disinterest is national.

"Everybody wants to sit down at a desk and make six figures," he said.

ileavitt@pioneerlocal.com

Twitter @IrvLeavitt
Parking is sometimes difficult to find close to the restaurants and stores on the east side of Oakbrook Center. (Chuck Fieldman/Pioneer Press )

Construction of RockSugar Southeast Asian Kitchen, a new restaurant next to The Cheesecake Factory at Oakbrook Center, has eliminated parking spaces from an area of the mall where parking is often scarce.

"Parking is definitely something to keep an eye on around here because it does sometimes fill up," said Jair Soberanis, manager at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille. "We'll have to see how it goes, but I don't think it will hurt our business. We also have valet parking, if people want that."

Advertisement

Soberanis said all employees are supposed to park in the outer ring of the mall so that spaces closest to Perry's and other nearby restaurants in the southeast portion of the mall remain open for customers.

"It can get pretty full, especially around the holidays, but there's parking available," Soberanis said. "If people can't find a someplace close to park, they can use the valet or walk a little."

Advertisement

Caryn Torres, senior general manager of Oakbrook Center, said mall owner General Growth Properties is spending about $20 million for parking improvements, which started in 2016 and will continue into 2018. Among the 2018 work is the green parking deck, closest of the mall's six decks to restaurants on the southeast side.

"We recognize parking has become a pain point for some of our customers," Torres said. "I think some people may overlook the green parking deck when they come to one of those restaurants, but there are almost always spaces available there, and it's covered, which is nice during bad weather."

Torres, who wasn't certain how many parking spaces were lost to RockSugar Southeast Asian Kitchen, said parking deck improvements include fresh paint and more signs to notify drivers where parking is available.

"We also have digital signs that indicate how many spaces are available in a deck when you drive in, so you don't have to waste time driving around on a level that doesn't have open spaces," Torres said. "That is something that will be added to the green deck when that work is done."

Oakbrook Center has about 12,000 total parking spaces, said Lindsay Kahn, a spokesperson for General Growth Properties

David Walker, 43, of Chicago, said he visits Oakbrook Center about once every couple of months, but usually doesn't include restaurants on the southeast side of the mall in his itinerary because he has been frustrated in finding parking.

"They really do have plenty of parking here overall, but you don't always want to have to walk very far," he said. "I know I can get a bit lazy, especially if I'm just coming to eat, or that's going to be the first thing I do at the mall.

"I guess we'd all like to have a reserved parking space right next to where we want to go, but I don't think that's going to happen."

Advertisement

Thomas Wilke, 41, of Glen Ellyn, said he prefers to not have to walk very far when he comes to one of the restaurants.

"When I come here to shop, I don't really think about where I park because I usually am going to be walking around the mall for a while and spending more time," he said. "When I come just to eat at or near Perry's, I focus more on finding a parking space that's as close as possible, although, if I have to, I will look farther away to find an open spot."

A representative for RockSugar Southeast Asian Kitchen, which is under the same ownership as The Cheesecake Factory and scheduled to open in early December, said accessibility is important to the restaurant team, and its group members believe the location will provide adequate parking.

"There is a three-story parking garage nearby that will be available to RockSugar guests," said Alethea Rowe, senior director of public relations for RockSugar Southeast Asian Kitchen.

With only a Los Angeles location already open, Rowe said Oak Brook was chosen for a new restaurant because of its potential for RockSugar.

cfieldman@pioneerlocal.com

Advertisement

Twitter @chuckwriting
Park Ridge's League of Women Voters is known for its election-time candidate forums, but this month, the group is hosting something a bit different: A discussion of how schools are financed.

"Demystifying School Finance: State and Local" is scheduled to take place Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. in the Learning Resource Center of Lincoln Middle School, 200 S. Lincoln Ave.

Advertisement

The program is hosted by the League of Women Voters of Park Ridge, the Northwest Suburban Illinois Branch of the American Association of University Women, and Park Ridge-Niles School District 64, organizers said.

The featured speaker is Tom Kersten, an adjunct professor of educational leadership at Roosevelt University and the author of "Taking the Mystery Out of Illinois School Finance." Also scheduled to appear are Luann Kolstad, chief school business official with Park Ridge-Niles School District 64, and Mary Kalou, assistant superintendent of business with Maine Township High School District 207.

Advertisement

Cindy Grau, a member of the League of Women Voters of Park Ridge, said the organization came up with the idea for the forum after a "brainstorming session" of topics for possible community programs.

Ultimately, talk turned to property taxes, Grau said.

"It's an area people like to complain about, but it's an area they don't understand very well," she said.

"We just want people to have a clear understanding on how schools are funded, why it's such a big part of our tax bill, and why our tax bills might be different than other communities," Grau added.

Kersten is expected to talk about why school taxes make up such a higher percentage of the total property tax bill and how the school funding formula in Illinois differs from other states, while school district representatives have been asked to talk about tax caps, their tax bases, and how the recently passed Senate Bill 1 on school district funding will affect their districts, Grau said.

Questions will also be taken from the audience, she added. But Grau cautioned that the forum will not be a place to air grievances about property taxes or push for lower taxes.

"We feel that cane be done by going to school board meetings or talking to elected representatives," Grau said. "And we feel that can be done better when people understand the restrictions and rules that schools are operating under."

jjohnson@pioneerlocal.com

Advertisement

Twitter: @Jen_Tribune
The following are stories as they appeared in The Lake County Star, a weekly newspaper started more than 150 years ago that covered all of Lake County and most of Porter County. The paper was owned and operated by the Wheeler family, descendants of Crown Point founder Solon Robinson. Items are replicated here as they originally appeared.

September 21, 1917

Advertisement

A dispatch from Indianapolis says "Judge John J. Rochford of the Marion Superior court, room 3, on Monday declared unconstitutional and void the act of the last legislature granting partial suffrage to women. The legislature, the judge held, in effect, has no authority under the constitution to grant suffrage to women.

Through a letter received by Sheriff Barnes on Tuesday, it was learned that John Lynch, who is in jail awaiting trial for the murder of Jimmy Leather, at his resort at Cedar Lake, on the evening of August 22d, is an escaped convict from the Joliet penitentiary, where he was serving a life sentence for murder committed in Chicago in 1904. According to the letter from Warden Murphey, Lynch escaped from the honor farm of the institution June 10, 1917, and shortly after his escape went into hiding in a cottage at Cedar Lake, and finally hid criminal instincts returned when he shot down Leather, during a quarrel over an alleged wager Deputy Chas. J. Daugherty stated on Wednesday morning that Lynch would be tried here for the murder of Leather and will not be returned to the Illinois institution.

Advertisement

Four persons in one Chicago family lost their lives last Sunday afternoon, when the automobile in which they were touring Lake county, was struck by the fast Panhandle train at Schererville, going at the rate of sixty miles an hour. The car was being driven by Frank Ozinski, of Chicago, who had just recently purchased a new car and was taking his family, consisting of a wife, two small children and the father of Ozinski for a Sunday outing. The party had visited the city only a short time before the accident occurred. When the tourist reached Schererville a freight train was passing over the crossing and as it cleared, Ozinski started across, failing to notice an oncoming passenger which was only a few feet away. The automobile was struck squarely in the center, which was thrown several hundred feet, dealing death to four of its occupant as it struck the side of the right-of-way. Mrs. Ozinski was almost instantly killed, a young son and Ozinski's father were found dead in the debris and a four-year-old daughter died on the way to the Hammond hospital. Ozinski, the owner of the car was badly injured but will recover.

September 25, 1942

Impetus was given to an intensive iron and tin can drive in Crown Point and the rural sections of the county at a meeting held in the criminal court building assembly room Tuesday night. Committeemen from Hanover, Winfield, Center, St. John, Hobart and Ross townships were present, together with James McShane, Lake county chairman, who gave short talks and emphasized the urgent need for the continuation of the salvage drive and with greater force than has been exerted in this direction in the past four weeks.  Each of the speakers stressed the importance of the needs of scrap iron and tin at this time for war materials and urged the continuation of the scrap drive, especially in the farming communities, where tons of scrap, it is believed, can yet be salvaged. A similar meeting was held in Lowell this week also for organizing the Three Creek townships more solidly so that the campaign for scrap and tin may be carried out simultaneously from the beach of Lake Michigan to the banks of the Kankakee river.

September 22, 1967

Lake county commissioners will no doubt authorize the re-incorporation of the Town of Cedar Lake after reviewing the evidence introduced at Monday's hearing of the petition presented. A legal problem, however, involving the Cook area residents included in the petition must be passed on by the count6y attorney before the commissioners' decision can be announced. Attorney Nelson Girlls of Indianapolis presented the petition asking for the incorporation of seven square miles to make up the town including the Cook area. For proof of mailing of notices to residents, resident and non-resident property owners he presented an affidavit by Mrs. Geraldine Kortokrax stating that she had prepared and mailed notices and received a receipt from the postmaster for each one mailed. Proof of mailing notice of the pending incorporation proceedings was considered lacking or defective by Lake Superior Court Judge James Richards, who consequently held the first incorporation of Cedar Lake to be invalid three years ago. Two attempts by legislation in the 1965 and 1967 Indiana General Assemblies were considered illegal by the Indiana Supreme Court last March. The Supreme Court opinion upheld Judge Richard's decision, although the case was not on appeal, and ordered the first incorporation dissolved and void. The present reincorporation petition and proof of mailing are intended to avoid mistakes made in the first.

kconley@post-trib.com
Happy Birthday

September 22: Charles Boillot

Advertisement

September 23: Jason Szczerbowski, Dan Gossman & Mary Jessen share this day

September 25: JT Janda is 15. He shares this date with Jim Wiltshire & John Yagelski, Jr.

Advertisement

Happy Anniversary

September 23: Sgt. Dave and Donna Benson and Jill and Mark Baumgardner Jr. share this date

September 21: Rosh Hashanah and autumn begins

September 22: First Full Day of Autumn

I have always wanted to go on a scenic rail road journey or river cruise within the USA They are rather expensive, but should be great fun. I have been on a cruise of the Great Lakes, and I am happy that they are back so others can enjoy that also.

As far as river cruises, I am always getting advertising from the American Lines and other providers for various rivers and coastlines of America. They all sound great.

Nuns Fun, the same people that brought us the one person play "Late Night Catechism," is producing "Bible Bingo". That should be a fun event. It will be held on Sept. 30 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church 7667 East 109th Ave. in Crown Point. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and there is $30 donation. Proceeds will benefit Holy Spirit's St. Vincent de Paul Society to help the needy. Call 661-0644 or email holyspirit.winfield@gmail.com for tickets or more information.

Food for thought

Advertisement

Remember to be generous when asked to help the families devastated by both Hurricanes Harvey and Irma both in the U.S. and in the islands of other nations in the Caribbean. While we are thinking about our own suffering, don't forget that Mexico got hit from both the east and west by Hurricane Katia in the Gulf and an earthquake on the Pacific side at almost at the same time.

Cuba took the Category 5 hit from Irma, which slowing the storm down before it hit the Florida Keys. On some of the islands like Barbuda, the devastation is so great that people are without food and drinkable water and they need our help. They are our neighbors. This country did an airlift into Germany to help feed the people there at the end of World War II, and those were our former enemies, not our neighbors. Every state has its own National Guard that knows how to provide help. Governors and President Trump need to authorize guard units for them to help.

The U.S. Congress needs to pass a permanent protection for all the DACA children and even go further to give them a way forward to be able to earn full citizenship. People that say, "Keep the outsiders out, this is our country" I just would like to know what American Indian tribe do you belong to? If none, think!

Even my ancestors  some of whom came before the American Revolution and others later  all came from somewhere. In my case, my family on both sides came from both Germany and Ireland. Others came from England, Scotland, France, Spain, Italy, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Serbia, China, Japan, India, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Ukraine, Canada, Portugal, Greece, Venezuela, Australia, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Turkey, Sweden, and I could go on and on.

I hope you get the idea that unless you are an American Indian our families are all from somewhere else. What makes this country great is not that we are all one color or come from one "old" or "new" world country, but that our families all came here to be free. With all the documentation of the current friends of the Russian government trying to cause trouble here for us, it is time we stuck together and not follow down the rabbit hole of the upper crust "White Russians" as they used to be called. It is together that we, all of us are strong.

I have a friend whose family is originally Spanish/Mexican. He is proud of that fact. He does add that they never crossed the border, but the border crossed his family's home where they have always lived in what is now the southern part of Texas. That part of Texas was at one time ruled by Spain from 1519-1685 under the Castile & Leon flag, then by France from 1685-1690, and then back to Spain from 1690-1821 under the new flag of Spain. Next, came the Mexican Federal Republic from 1821-1836, followed by the Republic of Texas from 1836-1845 with two different flags, then the U.S. Flag flew from 1845-1861  with the flag changed by congress in 1846 to 28 stars to include Texas. The next to fly was the Confederate States Flag 1861-1865 and once again the U.S. Flag from 1865 to present day.

Advertisement

kconley@post-trib.com
Niles Township High School District 219 Supt. Steven Isoye, pictured in this July 12, 2016 file photo, would not comment on the labor lawsuit filed in federal court by an ex-employee Aug. 16 against the school district and its former chief technology officer. ( Brian L. Cox/Pioneer Press )

A former Niles Township High School School District 219 employee has filed a lawsuit against the district and its former head of technology, claiming he was at times required to work overtime but wasn't paid for it  in violation of state and federal statutes, according to the suit filed Aug. 16 in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division.

The lawsuit states that former employee Adnan Memon performed "network systems tasks" at two NTHS District 219 schools. He worked more than 40 hours in a week and was denied pay at a rate of time-and-a-half as required, according to the lawsuit.

Advertisement

According to District 219 officials, Memon worked in the district from June 2001 until April 2017. He was systems and network engineer, officials said.

Members of the school board approved 6-0 a resolution at the Sept. 13 school board meeting authorizing joint legal representation for the district and former Chief Technology Officer Guy Ballard.

Advertisement

School board member Naema Abraham was absent.

Following the meeting, Supt. Steven Isoye said the district has no further comment on the lawsuit at this time because of pending litigation.

"The board believes that it is in the best interest of the district for the district to cooperate with Mr. Ballard on the defense of this lawsuit, and for the district's counsel to jointly represent the district and Mr. Ballard," the resolution states.

Memon's attorney, John W. Billhorn of the Chicago-based Billhorn Law Firm, did not return calls seeking comment.

Ballard served as chief technology officer from 1999 until retiring in 2016. The suit filed against him and the district allows other past and current employees to join in although no one else is named.

The lawsuit charges that the district and Ballard violated the Illinois Minimum Wage Law and the Fair Labor Standards Act. It does not ask for a specific amount of compensation.

But Memon seeks "back pay equal to the amount of all unpaid overtime compensation" for two years before the suit was filed, attorney fees and any additional relief the court decides is "appropriate."

The lawsuit alleges the district and Ballard were aware that the district's policies and practices violated statutes or they were implemented with a "reckless disregard" for whether they did so.

Advertisement

misaacs@pioneerlocal.com

@SKReview_Mike
Pueblo PD, Mayor Gradisar propose more pay for entry-level officers

The Pueblo Police Department and Mayor Nick Gradisar are proposing to increase entry-level pay for police officers to help with hiring.
By Chet Scheltema

Chinese family members entered the offices of the foreign trading firm and refused to leave. A China-based employee on assignment in Southeast Asia had suffered a severe injury in a motorcycle accident and lay hospitalized in a coma. The family sought tangible assurance of financial support.

Evening approached. The employers called Shanghai police, but the police refused to intervene, dismissing the matter as a non-criminal dispute. Around 8 p.m., the employers made a frantic call to advisors: What do we do?

According to Chinese statistics, the likelihood of a labor incident has grown dramatically. Officially recorded disputes increased to nearly two million in 2016, double that of 2015.

Because foreign managers in China lack knowledge of how disputes may play out, they often fail to imagine how they could escalate nor anticipate how they could disrupt business. While the vast majority are resolved without incident, foreign managers must be imaginative and learn to spot high-risk situations, then respond proactively.

We review three real life labor dispute scenarios and comment on proactive steps that could have been taken to lower the risk of business disruption.

HR & Payroll Solutions from Dezan Shira & Associates

Asset, record, and chop seizures for leverage in employment severance

It is reasonable to assume that an employee can sense a worsening employment relationship, anticipate eventual termination, and that he or she may then respond negatively. However, how employees in China may respond is where foreign managers lack experience and imagination.

It should not come as a surprise if a disgruntled employee, or employees, given the opportunity, move preemptively to seize control of corporate assets to bolster a negotiating position in anticipation of severance.

The targeted assets are frequently corporate chops, because they are easy to steal, and because it gives the holder near total corporate decision-making authority, but they include assets like financial and banking records, computer or safe box passcodes, and keys for access to infrastructure. The effort may also include occupying physical premises as a form of seizure and, in some extreme cases, may even involve forms of physical detention.

Those with opportunity to seize corporate assets are normally senior officers or managers. However, this is not always the situation, as demonstrated by the introductory example, where control of physical premises was effectively seized by family members.

Disgruntled employees: how to spot high-risk managers

High levels of autonomy and lack of supervision increase the risk of a malicious seizure, as there are fewer barriers to acting out, and abundant opportunity. However, foreign investors in China often feel they have little or no choice but to place deep and wide-ranging authority in the hands of a few go-to managers. While understandable, risks then dramatically increase.

When extensive autonomy and wide authority have been granted over an extended period of time, a senior managers sense of entitlement may grow. The manager may come to feel responsible for company success, and could become disgruntled with his financial remuneration or a perceived lack of recognition.

Here is where foreign human resources and operations managers fail. Although the employer may recognize the red flags, they delay serious and imaginative consideration of the situation and do not act soon enough. The employer simply stumbles forward, hoping for the best, fearing premature action could worsen the situation. They fear provoking the employee.

The disgruntled employee, on the other hand, may feel mistreated, which justifies their actions. The employee may conclude there is little to lose in the China context, where police may entirely ignore such incidents.

In worst case scenarios, fraud and other abuses may have already occurred, and their discovery may be of much greater concern to the disgruntled employee than fallout from a surprise seizure of assets. The employee may even see seizure of financial records as having a collateral benefit, because it prevents initiation of investigation into fraud or abuse.

Strong internal controls and fraud training reduce risks

Effective internal control policies and practices will reduce the risks of such incidents occurring. All foreign investors in China are strongly advised to review and bolster their internal control policies, practices, and culture. These would include, for example, redundant authorization for access to key corporate assets, specifically including the company chops.

Training senior managers in fraud and internal controls, and obtaining their personal commitment to these standards, is also highly advisable. Sadly, employers often neglect or ignore internal controls in China, sometimes never implementing them to begin with.

Yet the fact remains, good internal control policies and practices cannot entirely eliminate the risks. Senior officers and managers will eventually need singular access to key corporate assets (and the company chops); it is incumbent on HR or operations managers to stay sharp, be imaginative, and prepare to act preemptively to prevent disruption.

In particular, employers must prepare plans to prevent singular access and control of key corporate assets by employees when red flags arise, most critically during the period between the deterioration of an employment relationship and the termination.

RELATED: Labor Disputes in China: Prepare for Aggressive Negotiating, Uncomfortable Concessions

Proactively manage and resolve disputes: become culturally aware to see whats coming

Our introductory scenario differs slightly from the discussion so far because there was no disgruntled senior manager acting to seize corporate assets on the cusp of termination. Rather, it was a regular employees family occupying office premises during a medical emergency.

But take a closer look: it is essentially a seizure of corporate assets in the context of an employment dispute as leverage to negotiate financial compensation. The example highlights the need for foreign managers to stay sharp and think imaginatively in the context of a Chinese dispute.

In the example, the employer, firstly, did not fully grasp that matters of health and finances are of concern to the whole family, not just to an individual and his or her spouse. The extended Chinese family has long needed to shoulder the burden of family members illness and care; it was to be expected that they would take a very keen and direct interest in this accident and a family members needs.

Furthermore, the family understood that they were directly exposed to financial burdens. Because Chinese social insurance would likely not cover the cost of care outside China, and they could not know what support a new, potentially flaky foreign employer might provide.

That the Chinese family would physically occupy the offices of the trading firm to seek support was the surprise. But it shouldnt have been. It was a simple failure of imagination on the part of the employer, arising from their lack of China experience, worsened by the fact they were probably distracted by the urgent medical crisis at hand.

Had the employer understood the common practice of seizing assets as leverage in labor disputes, they could have foreseen what might happen and could have taken precautions. The employer could have proactively contacted the family at a neutral site to assure them of support. Simultaneously, they could have secured their corporate facilities and limited family access.



About Us China Briefing is published by Asia Briefing, a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. We produce material for foreign investors throughout Asia, including ASEAN, India, Indonesia, Russia, the Silk Road, and Vietnam. For editorial matters please contact us here, and for a complimentary subscription to our products, please click here. Dezan Shira & Associates is a full service practice in China, providing business intelligence, due diligence, legal, tax, IT, HR, payroll, and advisory services throughout the China and Asian region. For assistance with China business issues or investments into China, please contact us at china@dezshira.com or visit us at www.dezshira.com

Dezan Shira & Associates Brochure

Dezan Shira & Associates is a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm, providing legal, tax and operational advisory to international corporate investors. Operational throughout China, ASEAN and India, our mission is to guide foreign companies through Asias complex regulatory environment and assist them with all aspects of establishing, maintaining and growing their business operations in the region. This brochure provides an overview of the services and expertise Dezan Shira & Associates can provide.

An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2017

This Dezan Shira & Associates 2017 China guide provides a comprehensive background and details of all aspects of setting up and operating an American business in China, including due diligence and compliance issues, IP protection, corporate establishment options, calculating tax liabilities, as well as discussing on-going operational issues such as managing bookkeeping, accounts, banking, HR, Payroll, annual license renewals, audit, FCPA compliance and consolidation with US standards and Head Office reporting.

Chinas Investment Landscape: Identifying New Opportunities

Chinas foreign investment landscape has experienced pivotal changes this year. In this issue of China Briefing magazine, we examine how foreign investors can capitalize on Chinas latest FDI reforms. First, we outline new industry liberalizations in both Chinas FTZs and the country at large. We then consider when an FTZ makes sense as an investment location, and what businesses should consider when entering one. Finally, we give an overview of Chinas latest pro-business reforms that streamline a wide range of administrative and regulatory measures.

Dezan Shira & Associates
Hong Kong's second-highest-ranking official said on Saturday that there is "no room for discussion" about separatism in the special administrative region.

Chief Secretary for Administration Matthew Cheung Kin-chung made the remark after 10 local university presidents issued a joint statement against recent pro-independence posters on their campuses.

The "Hong Kong independence" notion violates the Basic Law, Hong Kong's sole constitutional document, Cheung said.

"Advocating the notion challenges the country's bottom line on sovereignty and territorial integrity, which is intolerable," he said, adding that the university heads had delivered a clear message on the independence question, and advised students to focus on other issues rather than continuing any discussion of separatism.

"There is no room for discussion," Cheung said.

He added that the people of Hong Kong value freedom of speech, but there are certain boundaries and bottom lines for that freedom. All freedom should be enjoyed within proper limits, Cheung said.

He was joined by Paul Chan Mo-po, financial secretary of the Hong Kong SAR. Chan expressed hope that the people of Hong Kong would stop the wrangling, which he said leads to polarization.

Their calls were echoed by the city's education sector. Ho Hon-kuen, the chairman of a local alliance of education professionalsEducation Convergencesaid that educational institutions must make it clear to students that the "Hong Kong independence" notion violates the Basic Law.

Another local education professional organizationthe Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers, released a joint statement signed by eight local educational groups and 11 individual heavyweights in the sector. They expressed their sadness witnessing the recent strife at the universities and vowed to stand firm on what is right in teaching Hong Kong's next generation.

The hubbub began when posters advocating "Hong Kong independence" appeared on university campuses at the beginning of the new semester. In one of the most widely reported incidents, a confrontation developed between student union members and mainland students at Chinese University of Hong Kong.

The presidents of 10 universities in Hong Kong issued a joint statement on Friday condemning both the notion of independence and the abuse of freedom of expression. They said they do not support "Hong Kong independence" and stressed that it would be a violation of the law.

"We treasure freedom of expression but we condemn its recent abuses. All freedoms come with responsibilities," the brief statement said.

The 10 universities were CUHK, the University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shue Yan University, Lingnan University, Hong Kong Education University, Polytechnic University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the Open University of Hong Kong.

In a separate statement, CUHK Vice-Chancellor Joseph Sung Jao-yiu asked the university's student union to immediately remove pro-independence posters on campus. Otherwise the school will take action, he said.

Sung also apologized to those offended by "malicious personal attacks" and "abusive language" from CUHK students.

He stressed that the Basic Law stipulates that Hong Kong is an inseparable part of the People's Republic of China and that CUHK opposes the concept of "Hong Kong independence".
Hangzhou resident Xu Aifei, 28, became an internet celebrity after donating stem cells and writing about her experience online, while also giving other donators peace of mind, the Beijing News reported on Sunday.

Xu Aifei

Xu donated stem cells on September 12, 2017, and recorded her experience on her Weibo microblogging account on Saturday. The post has garnered over 120,000 likes and nearly 40,000 reposts.

"Stem cell donation is a once in a lifetime experience that few people have," she said.

Xu has been donating blood since she was in senior high school, having donated a total of 3,200 ml.

In 2009, while donating blood, she read a leaflet on stem cell donation and learned that it is not as painful as she had thought, so she decided to do it.

Later that year, she joined the Chinese Marrow Donor Program. On May 7, 2017, she received a call and was told that her stem cells matched a patient.

Without hesitation, Xu agreed to donate her stem cells to save a 15-year-old boy with leukemia.

Xu wrote on her Weibo account that over the course of four days, she received eight injections in her arm, joking that it looked like a hornet's nest. However, she also wrote that from the perspective of patients, this is a normal situation.

Her stem cells were collected both in the morning and the evening for four days. When asked how her body reacted, Xu said felt pain in her waist, similar to the pain during her monthly period, but that it was far from insufferable.

Her experience won her the online nickname 'the most beautiful donator,' which she said she didn't expect. Xu said she recorded the experience as something to look back on and to tell other prospective donators that the process is not that bad.

There are only about 2.3 million donators in the Chinese Marrow Donor Program, far less than what is required. The match rate is also low, with only around 6,000 successful matches nationwide up till now. Many patients die while waiting for a match.

Some donators regret making the decision and refuse to continue with the process due to the fear of pain, which causes sadness for the patient's family. In fact, the pain is not as much as people expect to endure.

Xu hopes that her experience can help promote stem cell donation in China and would like to be an ambassador for the cause.
You are here: Home

Zhejiang University is now adopting articles from the internet into their academic evaluation.

Students take photo at 2017 Zhejiang University graduation ceremony.[Photo/Chinanews.com]

A pilot evaluation method was rolled out on September 8 by the university, which includes outstanding online cultural achievements in the university's academic evaluation, the same as papers published in key academic journals.

Online cultural achievements will include articles, audio files, and comics trending on various platforms, having significant influence, reprinted or republished by multiple other major media platforms.

This is the first time a Chinese university has included online cultural achievements in its academic evaluation system.

Some have said it is a great leap forward for the current academic evaluation system as it acknowledges online publishing, while the others hold doubts over the academic seriousness of online articles.

Under the current evaluation criteria, Chinese scholars and students of most universities are graded on how many books they publish or papers that are published in key journals.
 Flash

China's envoy to Washington has urged the US to do more to resolve the nuclear crisis on the Korean Peninsula, while stressing that the UN resolution on Pyongyang also calls for dialogue and peace talks.

Hours after the Democratic People's Republic of Korea launched another missile over Japan into the Pacific Ocean on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to the US Cui Tiankai said Washington "should be doing much more than now", so that there's real, effective international cooperation on the Korean Peninsula issue.

"Everybody else will have to do their share; they cannot leave this issue to China alone," Cui said at a reception on Friday night in Washington.

The US should refrain from issuing more threats. Instead, it should do more to find effective ways to resume dialogue and negotiations, Cui said.

The ambassador's remarks followed shortly after the DPRK's latest missile launch drew condemnation from the United Nations and refueled fiery rhetoric about a military option from the Trump administration, which also asked China to mount pressure on the DPRK, partly by cutting oil shipments to Pyongyang.

China responded by saying that it has done its best, and the initiators of a problem should resolve it, said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying.

When asked about the oil cuts, Ambassador Cui told reporters, "We are fully prepared to implement all the Security Council resolutionsno more, no less."

Cui, however, bluntly said that China will never recognize the DPRK as a nuclear state and opposes nuclear weapons anywhere on the Korean Peninsula and beyond, including Japan and Taiwan.

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2375 on Sept 11 in response to the DPRK's sixth nuclear test, conducted on Sept 3.

Cui said the resolution is a shared responsibility for all parties.

"We need to be clear that the latest UN resolution not only sanctions the DPRK's nuclear activities but also calls for the reopening of dialogue and resolving the issue through consultations," Cui said. "The resolution should be implemented comprehensively."

At the UN's headquarters in New York on Friday, Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia also called on the US and others to implement the "political and diplomatic solutions" that are called for in the latest sanctions resolution.

"Without implementing these, we also will consider it as noncompliance with the resolution," Nebenzia said, Reuters reported.
 Flash

Visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela on Sept. 17 in Panama City. [Photo/Xinhua]

Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has inaugurated the country's embassy in Panama. The opening of the embassy comes during a two-day official visit by Wang to the central American country.

"The Chinese Embassy in Panama will fully carry out the friendly policies towards Panama set by the Chinese government. It will work with all sectors of Panama's society to build a new era of cooperation with mutual benefits and mutual development," said Wang.

Wang Yi has attended the ceremony along with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela.

The two countries established diplomatic relations in June, when Panama began to recognize the one-China principle and severed "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan. Panama's president says the country will firmly pursue the one-China principle and honor its commitment on Taiwan-related issues.

China and Panama signed a joint communique on June 13 this year on the establishment of diplomatic relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a meeting in Beijing with Isabel Saint Malo de Alvarado, Panama's vice president and foreign minister, as they signed the joint communique.

According to the document, the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Panama, in keeping with the interests and desire of the two peoples, have decided to recognize each other and establish diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level effective from that date.

In the communique, the Panamanian government recognizes that there is one China in the world, that the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory.

The communique also says the Panamanian government severed "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan as of June 13 and undertook not to have any more official relations or official exchanges with Taiwan.

During a press briefing after the meeting in June, Wang Yi said Panama is an important Latin American country, and the Chinese people value the traditional friendship with the Panamanian people.

He said the political decision made by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his government meets the fundamental interests of the country.

Wang also said the two sides will have communication and coordination in international and regional affairs and help deepen friendly cooperation between China and Latin America as well as the Caribbean.

China and Panama have had significant commercial relations for decades.

Chinese companies are already involved in dozens of infrastructure projects in Panama, including a 700-million-U.S.-dollar investment in the construction of a new deep-water container port in Isla Margarita, near the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal.

Wang Yi arrived in Panama after a stop in Costa Rica.

He will next head to New York for the General Debate at the UN Headquarters.
 Flash

Israeli officials said Monday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. President Donald Trump alongside the UN General Assembly to discuss Iran nuclear deal, Israeli Army Radio reported.

Israeli officials said Netanyahu will try to persuade Trump to retract U.S. support for the nuclear deal between the world powers and Iran.

"The most important thing in the upcoming meeting is demanding the cancellation of the nuclear deal," said Israeli cabinet minister, Yisrael Katz, who is also the minister of transportation.

In an interview with Army Radio, Katz said that "the lesson from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea shows negotiations and agreements with dictatorships do not prevent the development of nuclear weapons."

Netanyahu is expected to use his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to reiterate his position that Iran poses a threat to the stability of the Middle East.

The hardline politician has been a vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, which was signed two years ago in Vienne between Iran and the world powers.

Israel has been worried over Iran's expansive role in Syria and Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbors.
 Flash

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states on Monday expressed their support for the development of basic, operational and voluntary norms of behavior to guide the use of ICTs in the bloc in a responsible manner.

They made the remarks at the second ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity (AMCC), which is part of the Singapore International Cyber Week 2017 (SICW).

According to a press release from the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, the norms will take reference from the norms set out in the 2015 Report of the United Nations Group of Government Experts on Developments in the Field of Information and Telecommunications in the Context of International Security (UNGGE).

The AMCC agreed that such norms will help to enhance trust among ASEAN member states and build confidence in the use of cyberspace so as to harness its full potential to bring about greater economic prosperity.

The AMCC was chaired by Singapore's Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-charge of Cyber Security Yaacob Ibrahim.

He said at the opening ceremony that the norms would support the work of international organizations such as the United Nations, and more importantly, amplify ASEAN's voice on international cyber discussions.

"With an agreement on cyber norms among nations, cyber security cooperation can be better achieved," the minister said.

The AMCC came into two close-door sessions successively after the opening ceremony. According to the press release, the first session, opened only to ASEAN member states, saw the Conference agree on the importance of enhancing coordination to ensure that ASEAN's cyber security efforts across its various platforms in countering increasingly sophisticated cyber threats are focused, effective, and in synergy with one another.

The first session was followed by a special session, which, for the first time, existed in this year's AMCC and saw the participation of ministers and senior officials from five ASEAN dialogue partners, namely Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and the United States. It is aimed at facilitating more comprehensive discussions on cyber security.

Taking into account the increasingly inter-connected global economy and the transboundary nature of cyber threats, the special session highlighted the critical importance of international dialogue on cyber, as well as regular and robust inter-regional dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN and its dialogue partners, said the press release.
You are here: Home

 Flash

China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

The exercises are scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea.

It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.

The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.
 Flash

Iraq's supreme court on Monday issued a verdict to stop the independence referendum in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region slated for Sept. 25, a court spokesman said.

Head of the court's media office Ayas al-Samouk said in a statement that the order was issued after deliberation and "in the presence of all of its members."

On Sept. 12, the Iraqi parliament voted to reject the independence referendum of the Kurdish region, but the Kurdish lawmakers walked out of the session in protest of the decision.

On June 7, the Kurdish President Masoud Barzani announced his intention to hold a referendum on the independence of the Kurdish region from Iraq on Sept. 25.

The independence of Kurdistan is expected to be opposed by some countries because it would threaten the integrity of Iraq and because it comes as the Iraqi forces are in fight against terrorism, including the Islamic State militant group.

In addition, the neighboring countries of Turkey, Iran and Syria see that such a step would threaten their territorial integrity, as larger populations of Kurds live in those countries.
The Republic of Korea's fifth-largest conglomerate Lotte Group announced on Friday that it will sell some of its Chinese stores, and could dispose of all of them; a move that is no more than recognition of a fait accompli since Lotte agreed in February to provide land for the installation of the United States' Terminal High Altitude Area Defense anti-missile system in the ROK.

Following that decision, more than 80 percent of its hypermart stores in China have reportedly been closed, which has cost Lotte hundreds of millions of dollars.

Yet China can take no comfort in Lotte's business woes in the country, as the move serves neither side any good. For Lotte to exit the hypermarket business in China means it is abandoning a previously thriving market. Although the company's other businesses in China will continue to operate as before, its hypermarts have accounted for about 30 percent of the company's revenue in China, its largest overseas market. And the closure and sale of its stores means about 20,000 Chinese employed by Lotte will lose their jobs, as well as lost opportunities for hundreds of Chinese suppliers.

Lotte's announcement highlights the extent to which relations between the two countries have soured since former ROK president Park Geun-hye agreed to deploy THAAD on ROK soil.

Today, what prompted Lotte to make the decision to hand over its land to the ROK government to house the missile battery is no longer important. As tensions on the Korean Peninsula continue to escalate, it is never too late for the political and business leaders in the ROK to reflect on the lessons to be learned from the Lotte case.

By rolling out the deployment of THAAD despite Beijing's repeated protestations, Seoul has willfully ignored Beijing's concerns due to its fears about Pyongyang's intentions and the pressure applied by Washington in pursuit of its own aims.

Although China has firmly opposed the installation of the THAAD anti-missile system in the ROK from the outset, it is actually in the same boat as the ROK.

There is no need for the relationship to be in the state it is in now, since both countries share the goal of making the region nuclear-free, peaceful and stable.

However, the US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean Peninsula on Monday, which the ROK's defence ministry said was to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance". Yet Pyongyang is well aware of their military capabilities.

The ROK should reconsider its approach to its own security and instead of relying on the US, it should work to restore relations with China, as together they can work to ease the tensions that continue to dangerously escalate.
CHENGDU - The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) will continue its productive cooperation with China, said the global tourism body's incoming chief Zurab Pololikashvili Friday.

The UNWTO relations with China are important, "China is a main partner," and it is sure that bilateral cooperation will "continue in a very productive way," Pololikashvili said during a meeting with Li Jinzao, head of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), on the sidelines of the ongoing 22nd session of the UNWTO General Assembly.

The 40-year-old Georgian ambassador to Spain was appointed as the new UNWTO chief during Thursday's session of the UNWTO meeting. He is to succeed Taleb Rifai, who is set to complete a maximum two four-year terms.

During the brief meeting with Li, Pololikashvili also expressed support for tourism cooperation with China concerning the Belt and Road Initiative as well as the China-initiated World Tourism Alliance (WTA) that was established on Sept 12.

He said he himself witnessed the launch of the WTA and described the day as "historic," and assured his support for the non-governmental, non-profit tourism organization, saying the UNWTO and the WTA "are brothers, sisters."

During the meeting, Li stressed that "the role of WTA is complementary to that of the UNWTO" while expressing the hope for the two organizations to work together. Meanwhile, Li reaffirmed China's support for Pololikashvili's UNWTO leadership.

In addition, Pololikashvili said he hopes for further cooperation between the UNWTO and Chengdu, especially for promoting the Belt and Road Initiative.

The new UNWTO chief, who will take office in January 2018, said he is very impressed with Chengdu's hospitality in hosting the ongoing UNWTO gathering.

He said he will play an ambassadorial role in promoting Chengdu, and China as well.

More than 1,300 delegates from more than 130 countries attended the biennial UNWTO meeting this year, which is focused on sustainable development and tourism.

The UNWTO meeting officially opened on Wednesday in Chengdu, capital of the Sichuan province and an economic center in western China. It will last through Saturday.
WARSAW - The Belt and Road Initiative (B&R) is crucial for China-Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) relations, the Chinese ambassador to Poland Xu Jian underlined Friday.

Addressing a conference here which brought together experts from Poland and abroad, Xu said: "The Belt and Road Initiative was proposed by China but belongs to the world," adding that from 2014 to 2016, total trade volume between China and other B&R countries exceeded $3 trillion, with China's overall investments in these countries surpassing $50 billion.

Speaking to the first China-CEE development forum on Friday, Xu said: "Chinese enterprises have invested more than $8 billion in CEE region and expanded the investment areas."

Jiang Jianqing, chairman of the SINO-CEE Fund, emphasized the role of CEE countries as "a crucial hub connecting East and West, located between the vital markets of the EU, Russia and the Middle East.

Poland's Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Development Pawel Chorazy stressed the need for a more balanced collaboration that would see win-win for both sides: "More Chinese businesses would be welcome, with open arms, to Poland. We would also expect Chinese parties to be equally open," he said.

In May 2017, China held the B&R Forum attended by the heads of state and governments from 29 countries. Later this year, the 6th China CEE Summit will be held in Budapest, capital of Hungary.
BANGKOK - Thailand will start the construction of the first phase of the Thailand-China railway project in October, or no later than November, once the environmental impact assessment report is approved, said Thai Minister of Transport Arkhom Termpittayapaisith in an interview with Xinhua.

Thailand and China signed two contracts, namely the design contract and the supervision contract, for the 253-km first phase project earlier this month, which will link Thai capital Bangkok and the northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima.

"Once the relevant environmental impact assessment report from Baan Pachi in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province and Nakhon Ratchasima Province is approved, we will try to start the construction of the first section in October. If we cannot do that, we will definitely start in November, " Arkhom told Xinhua recently.

The transport minister said that his ministry has submitted the environmental impact assessment report for 5 times to a committee under the Environmental Impact Evaluation Bureau, and hoped that it will be approved this time. "We have submitted all detailed information of the project and it should be approved this time."

The first section, only 3.5 km in length, will be built by the Department of Highways attached to the Transport Ministry in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

The construction of other sections, the second 11 km section, the third 119.5 km section and finally the fourth 119 km section, will begin gradually.

According to Arkhom, to fully start the construction of the project, they still need to have detailed design of other sections to be put out to tender.

"The Chinese side said they will finish the detailed design of the whole project in 8 months after we signed the design contract."

The 253 km project is set to cost some 179 billion baht ($5.4 billion).

The Thai government will pay for the construction by issuing bonds or seek loans from banks, the minister said, adding his country is also considering loans from a Chinese bank for the signal system, tracks, trains etc.

Once completed, the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima railway with a maximum speed of 250 km per hour will be the first standard gauge high-speed railway of the country. But to finally form an artery railway linking Thailand, Laos and China, a 355 km second phase linking Nakhon Ratchasima with Nong Khai on the border with Laos has to be built.

"We will talk about making plans for the second phase and geological surveys on Sept 22 in China," Akhorm said.

He said the Thai side hopes to invest by itself to build the second phase, and also hopes both the first phase and second phase of the project will be open to the public at the same year as the China-Laos railway, which is under construction now and set to open to the public in 2022.

The transport minister also said he was quite confident of the quality of the Chinese high-speed railway technology as it has built the world's largest high-speed train network.

"China has built over 20,000 km of high-speed railways. The Chinese people take high-speed trains every day, and the Chinese side has kept telling me safety and security is their priority, so I am confident of the Chinese technology."

He also mentioned that China has agreed to transfer technology to Thais to enable them to drive, maintain and repair high-speed trains.

Thailand's long-term goal is to manufacture some components of the rails and the trains as it hopes the railway cooperation can enhance Thai people's skills and boost development of Thai industry, he said.

"We want to have this ability to manufacture some components to replace those worn components," Arkhom said, adding that by this way Thailand can also decrease the cost of maintenance.

He emphasized the importance of developing human resources for the railway and train industry.

"Railways can be used for over 100 years, so we have to have universities, colleges and schools to foster the ability of engineers and workers to maintain our railways and also move forward according to new trends."
China Chengtong Holdings Group, a State-owned investment and asset-operating company, said it will launch a large-scale fund to pool State and private capital to finance the mixed-ownership reform of the country's State-owned enterprises.

The plan is the company's newest initiative to support China's SOE reform, after it started the 350 billion yuan ($53.7 billion) national structural reform fund last September in collaboration with several big state firms to provide capital for SOEs' mergers and acquisitions, asset restructuring and industrial upgrades.

The new fund will target projects related with SOEs' ownership reforms, with private capital expected to make up a big portion of the fund, according to the company's chairman, Ma Zhengwu.

"We will establish a major investment platform to allow more private capital and smaller funds to participate in the SOE ownership reforms," Ma said without disclosing the scale of the new fund.

The move by China Chengtong reflects the acceleration of China's SOE reforms through capital-market practices to help major state companies to divest nonperforming assets, reduce debt burdens and raise operational efficiency.

Ma said the company is also preparing to set up a fund to support the overseas operations of Chinese SOEs under the Belt and Road Initiative and to help them explore and invest in overseas projects.

China Chengtong itself is an example of the evolution of China's SOEs along the country's transformation from a planned to a market-oriented economy. The company has evolved from a loss-making SOE that managed the country's production assets and logistics in the 1990s into the country's leading equity investment firm responsible for operating and restructuring state assets.

The company has handled and helped dispose of state assets and debts worth about 74.9 billion yuan over the past 10 years, involving 664 central and local SOEs and nearly 90,000 displaced employees.

The latest high-profile deals initiated by China Chengtong include the 800 million yuan capital injection in the mixed-ownership restructuring of COFCO Capital Investment and the 13 billion yuan investment in the share offering of mobile carrier China Unicom through the structural reform fund.

China Chengtong has also been actively participating in the debt-for-equity programs of some debt-laden SOEs and has been investing in SOEs' initial public offerings as a strategic cornerstone investor.
An employee monitors the blast furnace at the Zelezara Smederevo, a steel plant in Smederevo, Serbia, Jan 21, 2015. [Photo/VCG]

Until early last year Serbia's largest steel company, Smederevo, was in deep financial trouble. It had had seven straight years of losses, and its very survival looked precarious.

Now, barely 18 months later, the company is well and truly over its brush with mortality, and its managers say its prospects are rosy.

Its fortunes began to change in April last year, as did those of Ivan Matkovic, who has worked for Smederevo for 17 years.

The company and Matkovic owe their good fortune not only to the intervention of one of China's largest iron and steel manufacturers, HBIS of Hebei, but also to the overarching influence of the Belt and Road Initiative.

The initiative's five most important planks are policy communication, road connectivity, unimpeded trade, monetary circulation and understanding between peoples, and President Xi Jinping has stressed that the last of these is a sine qua non of sound relations between countries, and thus requires more commitment.

Paying heed, HBIS went about exploiting new opportunities presented by the B&R Initiative. It bought the loss-making Smederevo for 46 million euros ($54 million) and started to manage it within three months.

Now Matkovic earns more than he ever had before.

"HBIS expanded Smederevo's capacity after the takeover. I feel relieved economically and more confident in the company's future. Moreover, the top Chinese executives are very friendly, and provide effective management."

The output of Smederevo, which has since been renamed HBIS Group Serbia Iron & Steel (or simply HBIS Serbia), increased by more than 50 percent sequentially in the second half of last year, the highest level since 2010.

HBIS' takeover ended seven years of losses, and pushed the 105-year-old Smederevo back into the black by the end of last year, according to the company's CEO Song Sihai.

HBIS Serbia's revenue accounted for 2.1 percent of Serbia's GDP ($377.5 billion) in 2016.

"The Belt and Road Initiative is a very important trigger for the acquisition. The supportive attitude of the Serbian government also played an important role," said Song.

Zorana Mihajlovic, Serbia's deputy prime minister and minister of construction, transport and infrastructure, said in an interview that the total investment in the country's ongoing infrastructure projects is close to $1.64 billion. Of that, $704 million, or 43 percent, came in from Chi-na on the back of the B&R Initiative.

For instance, construction of the first stage of the Hungary-Serbia railway, China's debut rail line in Europe, will start in November.

Prior to the rail line, China had completed the 250-million-euro Zemun-Borca Bridge, across the Danube and its approach roads in Belgrade, Mihajlovi said.

"China's investment helped us to improve infrastructure facilities and created job opportunities. More importantly, we are very grateful to the technologies and training opportunities that our Chinese partners bring to us," said Mihajlovic.

"The decision to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative is one of the most important ones we've ever made, and we will definitely continue to get involved in it."

According to Mihajlovic, in the past 40 years, Serbia has been seeking partners in Europe to begin new projects in its energy sector but failed.

Now, the government is in talks with a Chinese company to start the country's largest hydropower station.

"The grand initiative needs the boldness of vision but should also be implemented in a way that could moisten things silently," said Xu Li, marketing director in the Western Balkans of YTO International Ltd, a Chinese tractor manufacturer.

With years of experience in expanding overseas, Chinese enterprises have been attaching much importance to building better relations with local staff and integrating with local people.

HBIS Serbia, for instance, increased the staff salary by 8 percent soon after the acquisition. It also set up a special fund to help staff going through difficult times.

The company's top management visited retirees during traditional local holidays and offered them gifts. In August, they gifted stationery to staff with schoolgoing children as schools reopen in September after the summer holidays.

"We also encourage the staff to advise us on how to improve the working process and management," said Song.

This year, HBIS Serbia will invest heavily in environment protection and energy-saving techniques. "We want to preserve a good environment for the local people," Song said.

HBIS is not the only Chinese company to ride the B&R Initiative to touch millions of lives. Sinohydro, a Chinese infrastructure builder, is another shining example.

In August 2015, the Macedonian city of Tetovo was caught in a rainstorm that led to a serious landslide, leaving some villages isolated.

Sinohydro's branch office in Skopje organized a rescue team quickly and pressed into service heavy machinery in the stricken areas to clear up a road, thus establishing a communication link to the isolated villages.

Liu Zhichao, who headed the rescue team at that time, recalled that a senior Skopje citizen invited Sinohydro's Chinese staff to his home, when the latter were having pizza for lunch, standing in the hot sun. The old man offered grapes, cola and beer.

"We paid lots of attention to communicate with the local government and communities while constructing the project," said Wang Jianfeng, manager of Sinohydro's Skopje branch office, which is executing the Kicevo-Ohird Motorway Project.

The hills along the project, for instance, often experience droughts during summer so the branch office has paid for the digging of open wells for the locals.

And during local festivities, company staff get into the spirit by offering gifts to villagers and passing on best wishes to the local government, Wang said.

Such efforts, Wang said, can help cement relations. Kicevo's singing and dancing group, for instance, visited the project for a performance during the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Zvonko Sarafiloski, 51, manager of a food processing factory in Kicevo, said Sinohydro's project in Kicevo is good for locals, particularly young people, as it has created employment. Prior to the project, the locals had limited job opportunities and low incomes.

Since 2014, however, the Kicevo-Ohird Motorway Project has offered a new life to local people.

"We have money not only for bread but meat, cheese, candy, alcohol and even new phones, laptops," said Sarafiloski. The motorway project also helped expand local businesses. More and more new groceries, restaurants and supermarkets were set up.

"Our life is easier now. We hope Sinohydro can get new projects, so that our young boys and girls can work with Chinese engineers for a longer time."

According to Ling Shengli, secretary-general of the International Security Research Center at China Foreign Affairs University, if two nations wish to come closer, the process has to start at the level of people.

People need to come together, heart-to-heart, firstonly then would there be closer ties, said Ling.
LUXEMBOURGHailing China's "win-win" Belt and Road Initiative, Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel has voiced his country's support for the mega project.

"Transport goes in both directions. It's initiatives like these that make win-win situations possible," Bettel told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Proposed by China in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative aims to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient Silk Road trade routes.

Bettel made an official visit to China in June this year, one he said was fruitful.

"Four agreements were signed during the visit. The visit also allowed me to discover China. And it was also a visit that allowed me to see (the country) in the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Luxembourg and China, a relationship of trust that continues," he said.

"What impressed me, for example, is China's leadership role, also in respect of COP21. When I was in China, it was just some time after (US) President (Donald) Trump said he did not want to follow (the Paris Climate Accord)," Bettel said.

"We could have had a domino effect. And I met strong Chinese leaders, who want to defend the COP21, who want to continue to have a political responsibility that is not always 'popular' but necessary to preserve for future generations."

Amid a rising protectionist tendency against Chinese investment in Europe, Bettel told Xinhua that the two sides "have to agree to do something that will satisfy both parties, something that will benefit the one and the other, without it being at the cost of the other."

"I think that the Sino-European cooperation must be a cooperation that works. We tend to stigmatize what is wrong and yet there are so many things that work. When you see the partnership between Europe and China, whether it's Luxembourg and China, or Europe and China, we need each other," Bettel said.

"We need international trade and exchange, and I think that it is through understanding and respect for one and the other that we can move forward," he said.
A Chinese expert shows local workers how to operate the machinery at an oil drill facility in Sudan. [Photo/Xinhua]

KHARTOUMThrough fruitful and mutually beneficial cooperation with Sudan, China is turning the African nation's two major resources in black and white, namely oil and cotton, into gold.

The China-Sudan cooperation now shines as a model for developing Sino-African relations, showcasing China's contribution to Africa's development.

Thanks to the funding and technological aid from China, Sudan has largely achieved energy independence by establishing its own oil industry.

Similarly, China is helping Sudan transform its economy, through its efforts to create a cotton industry with a complete chain of production.

To illustrate the close economic and trade relationship between the two countries, China is the biggest trade partner for Sudan, which is the third largest African trade partner for China.

"Our relationship with China is historical, deeply-rooted and strategic. This is a model relationship that we hope will continue and shift to wider horizons," Awad Ahmed al-Jaz, a Sudanese presidential aide in charge of Sudan's ties with China, told Xinhua in an interview.

When Sudan and China signed a deal on building the Khartoum Refinery Co Ltd in 1997, no one expected it to become such a success story like it is today.

Located on the eastern bank of the Nile and 70 km north of Sudan's capital Khartoum, the 50-50 joint venture between Sudan's Ministry of Energy and Mining and China National Petroleum Corporation or CNPC has successfully turned the oil-rich African country from an importer of petroleum products to an exporter.

A bedmaker in Sudan prepares cotton for use in mattresses and pillows. China is making efforts to help Sudan build a cotton industry, based on its successful experience in the oil industry. China has already achieved success in helping Sudan improve its cotton farming. [Photo/Xinhua]

With the help of China's funding, technology and personnel training, the refinery was built in less than 20 months, and has expanded to increase its yearly output to 4.5 million metric tons.

It has not only met Sudan's domestic demand for petroleum and diesel but exported high-grade petroleum products to neighboring countries to earn the much-needed hard currencies.

A new city was also born around the refinery as it has attracted a number of petrochemical factories, power plants, oil-trading companies, and other service providers.

In the past 20 years, the Sudan oil industry, including the refinery and other oil-related investments, has generated over $100 billion in direct and indirect revenues for Sudan's economy, according to official estimates.

Jia Yong, general manager of CNPC International (Nile) Co Ltd, the Chinese partner of the Khartoum Refinery, said the facility is a model showing how China helps an African state achieve industrialization.

"The project has not only helped Sudan realize energy independence, but also ensured its safety of national energy supply," Jia told Xinhua.

In addition to the economic benefits, China's oil investments have also brought about huge social benefits for local communities. For example, China has trained a contingent of Sudanese oil engineers and technical workers, many of whom are later recruited by oil-rich Gulf nations.

Over the years, CNPC has contributed more than $120 million to varied charity and poverty relief projects in Sudan, by building and donating 104 schools, 50 hospitals and clinics, and 400 water wells, to fulfill its social responsibilities.

This refinery is so successful that several other African countries have requested China's help to build a similar one in their countries. "So far, we have made progress in helping Algeria, Chad and Niger build similar refineries, following the Sudan model," Jia said, adding that this model could be applied in China's Belt and Road Initiative.

In addition to oil, Sudan is also famous for growing quality cotton. But it has failed so far to establish a complete industry with a production chain from cotton farming, processing, to textile and clothing making.

Now, China is making huge efforts to help Sudan build a cotton industry, based on its successful experience in the oil industry.

China has already achieved success in helping Sudan improve its cotton farming. In Al-Faw in Al Qadarif state, 260 km southeast of Khartoum, a China-funded modern cotton research center, the China Aid Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center, has successfully introduced a new type of quality cotton seeds from China.

The seeds, named as China 1 by the Sudanese government, have notably increased cotton yields per mu (0.04 hectare) by 150 kilos. The seeds are so popular that 94 percent of Sudanese cotton farmers now plant them, earning an average of 8,400 Sudanese pounds ($1,259) in increased income per household a year.

In August last year, the Sudanese government and Chinese companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding to allow the latter to grow 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) of cotton in Sudan, including 112,000 hectares in Al Jazirah, a major cotton-growing state of Sudan.

In addition to cotton growing, Chinese companies plan to help Sudan build textile and ready-made clothing factories to complete the cotton industry's chain of production.

In the Al Rahad irrigation zone, China Shandong International Economic & Technical Cooperation Group joined hands with Shandong Lumian Group in 2012 to invest $50 million in building a 6,667-hectare modern farm of cotton farming and processing.

It envisions building a complete chain of production comprising cotton-growing, processing, textile manufacturing and garment-making factories, as well as animal farming and meat-processing facilities. Raw cotton seeds can be processed to make cooking oil, and leftovers can be turned into animal feed.

With help from China's ministries of commerce and agriculture, the farm has been training Sudanese in cotton farming and processing. So far, the Al Rahad farm has held four sessions of training under a three-year deal with the UN Food Programme.

"We have achieved an inspiring model in the field of oil industry and now we are heading toward turning agriculture into another model for cooperation after oil industry. We are now ready to make Al Rahad Agriculture Project a model for cooperation in the agricultural field," Awad Ahmed al-Jaz said.

Sudan, benefiting so much from the previous cooperation with China, is now eager to take advantage of the new opportunities offered by China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The initiative aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa, by building roads, bridges, ports and other projects to seek common development and prosperity.

Al-Jaz said he was optimistic that the initiative would inject a new impetus to the China-Sudan ties as Sudan can serve as the link between the African continent and the Arab region.

Bushra Al-Sheikh Dafalla, a Sudanese diplomat and political analyst, told Xinhua that the partnership between the two countries has brought about many benefits, and Sudan needs to get more help from China in the field of infrastructure construction.

"China can establish land transport lines linking the Mediterranean Sea to Cape Town, which can connect the whole African continent across Sudan," he said, noting China's world-class railway construction expertise could be of big help in this regard.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Shanghai is the Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower, which offers a magnificent view of the city, particularly after nightfall.

Frank Heinricht, 55, is probably a little unusual in that rather than being attracted mostly by the spectacular views on such a visit, it is the clear glass underfoot 260 meters up in the tower that keeps him preoccupied. His big question: Is it safe?

Heinricht is the chief executive of the German specialty glass maker Schott, and as such his professional interest in glass follows him almost everywhere he goes.

"Quality and safety are always the top-priority for us and our customers," Heinricht said of his company, which plans to spend 100 million euros ($119 million) expanding its business in China over the next three years, the main aim being to produce more high-quality specialty glass.

Chinese customers are attaching ever more importance to product quality, he said, and this applies to the glass containers for pharmaceuticals that his company makes.

"Our Chinese customers are now opting for higher-quality glass for safety reasons and for the quality of the pharmaceutical ingredients. They are also looking for containers that can hold their pharmaceutical contents longer."

He attributes the change in attitudes to industry upgrading in China.

"China's healthcare industry is upgrading its facilities, and we see this trend relating to pharmaceutical containers. That is presenting us more business opportunities."

He also sees the company's growth in the field of diagnostic examination as highly promising because Chinese hospitals are upgrading equipment for such examinations, including glass containers that hold special contents and that require special manufacturing technologies.

The burgeoning telecommunications market in China also presents opportunities to Mainz-based Schott.

Chinese electronic device producers such as Midea, Haier and Huawei are interested in very thin glass that can be used for the surface of household appliances and electronic devices such as laptop computers and smartphones.

Household appliance makers in China are eager to produce high-end products to achieve new growth as the government encourages manufacturers to increase turnover by modernizing and digitalizing and to be more internationally competitive.

As industries in China have upgraded, Heinricht's view of the country has undergone an upgrade of its own.

Twenty years after first visiting China he is astonished at the huge economic changes that have taken place, he said.

In fact, it is easy even for someone like him who has become familiar with the country to get lost because everything has changed so rapidly in the cities, he said.

"But one thing remains unchanged: the culture and personal styles. It's easy to communicate with Chinese business-people because they are friendly, straightforward, pragmatic and flexible.

"Being flexible is what German people can learn from their Chinese counterparts. That makes things easier and more efficient."

Schott set up shop in China 2002 when it opened a sales office in Shanghai and a production plant in Suzhou, Jiangsu province. It has since expanded its activities in the country.

In 2012, a local medical apparatus producer, Jiangsu Xinkang Medical Equipment Co Ltd, and Schott founded a joint venture in Jinyun, Zhejiang province, that sells ampoules, vials and cartridges.

It is building a new production plant in Jinyun that will come into operation in October. Schott's pharmaceutical systems division will invest another 30 million euros or so in China over the next three years. This will increase its production capacity by 50 percent over that period, he said.

Heinricht calls the collaboration with Xinkang a success story.

"For German companies it's difficult to understand Chinese culture and to go through all the required administrative procedures in the country. It really helps if you have a reliable Chinese partner."

Schott is seeking opportunities to form joint ventures with other Chinese companies, he said.

"China is now our third-largest market after the United States and Germany, but by 2020 it will be our largest, most of our business sections having enjoyed high growth in China."
An investor checks gold and silver futures data of the Shanghai Futures Exchange. Since November 2012, China's futures markets have been sought to be opened up increasingly, enhancing their international influence. [Photo/Xinhua]

CSRC vice-chairman says move is part of country's larger economic goals

China will open up its futures markets to the world, particularly foreign investors, to help the markets align with the national strategies for boosting the real economy, said a senior official from the country's top capital market regulator.

The government will support a futures and derivatives market that is compatible with the country's economic and social development goals as well as the need for economic risk management, said Fang Xinghai, vice-chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

He made the remarks in his address to the 2017 China (Zhengzhou) International Futures Forum on Sept 8.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in November 2012, China's futures markets have been sought to be opened up increasingly, enhancing their international influence.

For example, prices of copper, PTA (purified terephthalic acid, a raw material used in the making of certain plastics) and iron ore in the futures markets have become important reference points in international and domestic trade.

"China will support and encourage more qualified overseas investors to take part in the trading of China's bulk commodities exchange," he said.

"The country will make crude oil futures the new starting point of opening up all futures markets. The preparatory work of listing crude futures on the Shanghai Futures Exchange has entered the final phase.

"And then, we will allow foreign players, whose enthusiasm is very high at present, to enter other futures markets, such as iron ore and PTA, when conditions are ripe."

The Dalian Commodities Exchange will steadily drive the internationalization of iron ore futures, attracting international traders to participate directly. That strategy would help increase China's influence in international markets, said Wang Fenghai, general manager of the exchange, at the forum.

He stressed that the company will try to allow foreign players to enter the market as early as this year.

In general, the standards and internationalization of China's derivatives markets are yet to reach levels that are considered world-class, in terms of pricing and risk management, market insiders said.

So, commodity exchanges will be supported if they seek to cooperate with overseas exchanges, especially those in countries and regions that are participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, Fang said.

"The Belt and Road Initiative provides new opportunities for the domestic futures markets to go global," said Chen Huaping, director of the Zhengzhou Commodities Exchange.

The exchange is actively searching for new ways of involving in international derivative markets, he said.

The markets regulator will support futures trading institutions to establish or buy out companies overseas, introduce foreign shareholders, and carry out cross-border businesses, said Fang.

"We will attract more international shareholders to participate in Chinese companies, strengthening the international element in them."

Until the end of last year, Chinese futures companies set up 18 subsidiaries abroad. The latter are engaged in the futures business. Two foreign financial institutions have picked up stakes in Chinese futures companies, according to data from the China Futures Association.
An executive of New China Life Insurance explains the firm's products to a potential customer. [Lang Sha/for China Daily]

Life insurance products should be more diverse to enhance risk control, said a senior insurance regulatory official.

Access to market, early intervention and fool-proof withdrawal mechanism are three prerequisites for preventing potential risks, said Huang Hong, vice-chairman of the China Insurance Regulatory Commission at a forum held in early September.

Premium income of life insurance companies reached 1.96 trillion yuan ($300 billion) from January to July, up 24 percent year-on-year, according to statistics released by the commission this month.

It shows life insurance plays an important role in guaranteeing financial safety, he said.

"However, products of some insurers are too homogenized with short duration, which may bring risk," he said.

"Insurers should construct a multi-level and widely covered structure to help cultivate a healthy market."

Since March last year, the commission had tightened sales of insurance products with medium or short duration.

Insurance whose duration is less than one year is not allowed at all. The proportion of policies with tenure of one to three years should be limited to 50 percent of the total by 2019, according to a document released by the commission.

It aims to guide insurers to adjust their business structure and develop long-term insurance, to prevent potential risks caused by asset-liability mismatches and insufficient cash flow of companies, the document said.

Huang also said insurance companies should optimize their ownership structure, improve incentives and risk control mechanisms.

The commission called on insurers to have self-examination procedures and course-correction mechanisms for risky behaviors in sales of life insurance, as stated in a document in May.

Self-examination should cover the management of insurance products, release of information, marketing communications, client reviews and complaint handling, according to the document.

The domestic insurance market witnessed steady development in the first quarter of this year with an optimized structure and stronger risk control capability, the commission said in May.

Its statistics showed total assets of the insurance industry reached 16.18 trillion yuan by March, up 7 percent from January.

The investment return on capital use of insurance companies showed a steady growth to 185.6 billion yuan, up 34 percent year-on-year, among which, more investments were made in infrastructural construction and the real economy, it said.

The balance of long-term equity and other investments accounted for 38 percent of total investments.

Huang said technological tools, including the internet, big data and artificial intelligence, should be adopted in innovation of insurance-related products, services and management.

In the first quarter of this year, the number of online deals grew 112 percent to 1.96 billion. Premium income of internet-based insurers reached 1.68 billion yuan, up 175 percent year-on-year, according to the commission.

In July, President Xi Jinping said at the National Financial Work Conference that finance is one of the country's core competences, hence financial safety is an important part of national securityand the financial system is an important part of the foundation for economic and social development.

Making the financial sector better serve the real economy, containing financial risks and deepening financial reforms were the three issues that were highlighted at the conference.

Xi said financial supervision should be enhanced to improve the capability to withstand financial risks.

To do that, insurers and regulators should mitigate risks in key fields, improve defenses and optimize risk emergency and response systems, he said.

Any tendency to disturb the financial market should be contained. Trading and operation of financial works should meet the existing norms.

A social credit system should be strengthened and finance-related legal sysem should be improved in accordance with the nation's development, he said.

The conference, which began in 1997, is convened once in five years, and is widely considered to be effective in setting the tone for financial reforms.
A man pays using his mobile phone on a train from Tianjin to Qinhuangdao, Hebei province. [Photo/Xinhua]

NEW YORK - Artificial intelligence (AI), along with other financial technology (fintech) innovations, are significantly changing the ways that financial business are being run, especially in the fields like trading, insurance and risk management, leading the traditional financial industry into a new era.

Robots replacing humans

Back in 2000, Goldman Sach's New York headquarters employed 600 traders, buying and selling stock on the orders of the investment bank's clients. Today there are just two equity traders left, as automated trading programs have taken over the rest of the work.

Meanwhile, BlackRock, the world's biggest money manager, also cut more than 40 jobs earlier this year, replacing some of its human portfolio managers with artificially intelligent, computerized stock-trading algorithms.

Those two big companies are not the only financial institutions replacing human jobs with robots.

By 2025, AI technologies will reduce employees in the capital markets by 230,000 people worldwide, according to a report by the financial services consultancy Opimas.

"Asset managers, analysts, traders, compliance administrators, back-office data collection and analysts are most likely to lose their jobs, because their jobs are easier to be replaced by automation and AI," Henry Huang, an associate professor at Yeshiva University's Sy Syms School of Business, told Xinhua.

"The net effect of this kind of automation will be more about increasing the productivity of the workforce than of robots simply replacing people," said Richard Lumb, group chief executive of Accenture's Financial Services operating group.

The best automated firms will outperform their competitors by making existing workforces more productive through AI, he added.

While humans are losing jobs in the financial industry, companies are enjoying the benefits bringing by AI technologies.

"Initially AI will add the most value and have the largest impacts in compliance (especially anti-money laundering and know-your-customer functions), cybersecurity and robo-advice," Lumb told Xinhua.

Wall street embraces fintech

Facing rising pressures from fintech innovations, represented by AI, Wall Street financial institutions choose to embrace the new trend.

"In general, we see the outlook for fintech as strong. Demand for fintech by banks is growing because of regulatory and capital pressures, competition from large technology players like Google and Amazon and the abundance of new security threats," Lumb said.

The FinTech Innovation Lab, an annual program launched in 2010 by Accenture and the Partnership Fund for New York City to foster fintech growth, has helped New York participants raise more than $440 million.

"The FinTech lab has proven to be a significant program for engagement between entrepreneurial technology companies and New York's financial industry," said James D. Robinson III, General Partner and Co-founder of RRE Ventures.

In New York City alone, fintech investment overall has increased from 216 million dollars in 2010 to 2.4 billion dollars in 2016.

"Big new frontiers are only just beginning to opening up in fintech - from AI, block chain and robotics to biometrics, augmented reality and cybersecurity," Lumb said.

Among all the fintech innovations, the prospect of the block chain has the highest expectation.

"The block chain will change the way people store information, which is real, spreading fast and cross-border, and its 'de-centric' feature will allow everyone to know what other people are doing. The application of block chain in finance will once again bring about a revolutionary impact on the industry, just like AI does," said Huang.

Fintech in china

Although it is hard to tell which country is leading the fintech innovations, many experts agree that China has outperformed other countries in fintech services adoption.

"The work in China has been dramatically ahead of anywhere else in the world," said Jim Bruene, founder of Finovate conferences, which showcase cutting-edge banking and financial technology.

With more intelligent, in-context financial services, especially commerce activities built around social media applications, "China is likely five or six years ahead of the United States," Bruene told Xinhua.

The latest report by Ernst & Young showed that China's fintech adoption rate came at 69 percent in an index that measures users' activity in various areas, including money transfer, payments, investments, borrowing and insurance, the highest among 20 major markets globally.

Wechat Pay, the e-payment platform built inside the 900-million-user Chinese social media application Wechat, is seen as the future of fintech services by many experts.

"Messaging is the next web browser, fintech and all other applications are going to live in a mobile messaging application like Wechat, just like how they lived in web browsers," said Greg Ratner, co-founder and chief technology officer of Troops, a U.S. artificial intelligence startup.

"It is going to be the future and is already happening in China. And I think it will come to the United States in the next five years," Ratner told Xinhua.

According to Huang's observation, there is a major difference between China and the United States in fintech development model.

"In the US, banks are the main driver of fintech innovations, while in China, BAT (Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent) representing the enterprises contribute most to the fintech development," Huang said.

"Considering the scale of banks in China, they should play a more important role in fintech innovations," he suggested.
BEIJING - State Councilor Wang Yong asked central State-owned enterprises (SOEs) to be vanguards in pushing forward innovation-driven development.

"Innovation is the primary force of development," Wang said after listening to reports about State firms' technological achievements, ranging from high-speed railways to passenger airliners, when attending a week-long annual campaign to promote entrepreneurship and innovation

Acknowledging the efforts, Wang said more has to be done to further improve corporate competitiveness and deepen reforms.

Central SOEs should continue to improve their innovation systems with increased R&D investment, stronger technical personnel and more innovation platforms.

Wang said central SOEs should play the leading role in propelling innovation. "Integrated development with small and medium-sized enterprises should be accelerated," said Wang.

China is counting on entrepreneurship and innovation to stimulate the economy against the backdrop of slowing growth. A number of measures have been rolled out, including reduced red tape, tax breaks and other policy support.
DHAKA - Two Bangladeshi and two Chinese firms have signed two joint venture pacts to build over 100 km rail lines and required infrastructure in the country's southeastern Cox's Bazar district bordering Myanmar.

Officials of Bangladesh Railways and joint venture China Railway Group Limited (CREC) of China and Toma Construction and Company Limited of Bangladesh; and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and MAX JV (joint adventure of CCECC of China and MAX international Ltd of Bangladesh) signed the deals on behalf of their respective sides here on Saturday.

Bangladeshi Raiways Minister M. Mazibul Haque, among others, witnessed the agreement signing ceremony as the chief guest.

In line with the agreements, the Bangladeshi and the Chinese firms will construct 102 km new dual gauge line along with 185 major and minor bridges under two different projects.

A station building will also be constructed under the project in Cox's Bazar town.

Officials say the project is part of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) support.

They said the Manila-based lender is helping Bangladesh set up double-track line between Dhaka and Chittagong and a fresh line on Dohazari-Cox's Bazar-Ghundum route, procure carriages and locomotives.

Railway officials said the project is scheduled to be completed in three years.
BEIJING - Back in the 1990s, Long Youfu had a pretty horrible job, creeping into scorching kilns and polishing ceramic tiles.

Today, he merely monitors an automatic loading and unloading system and presses some buttons on a polishing machine.

Long works in Guangdong Wonderful Ceramics Group in South China's Dongguan, the city which supplies one-fifth of the world's smartphones and one-tenth of the world's shoes. It's often called "the factory of the world."

Average annual wage in Dongguan had nearly doubled in five years to 46,000 yuan ($7,100) in 2016.

As growth slowed, demand dwindled and the days of cheap labor ended, the city's businesses had to evolve or perish. Some traditional industries still rely on intensive labor and if they do not change the way they operate, they might not survive.

In the worst year, Guangdong Wonderful Ceramics Group posed a loss of 13.3 million yuan, but it strove to develop overseas markets and used technology to cut costs and raise productivity.

"We invested nearly 400 million yuan on technology and cut the number of workers on each production line from 100 to 40," said He Jiye, the company's deputy Party secretary.

"Our daily per-capita output has increased more than 20 fold," he added.

In 2016, the company made 240 million yuan profit, up 27.8 percent, with clients in more than 60 countries and regions. The group invested $172 million in a factory in Tennessee last year, where further automation has reduced the number of workers on production lines to 20.

Dongguan has supported the manufacturing industry to the tune of at least 200 million yuan each year for the past three years to encourage technological upgrades. There are still a few factories where thousands of workers in long lines hunch over sewing machines or slot components into printed circuit boards, but that mode is being replaced by partially automated production lines, with human workers only at key points in the process.

More than 1,500 km away from Dongguan, in Yancheng, Jiangsu province, a similar transformation is underway.

At the workshop of Jiangsu Sunway Precision Forging Co, robots forge high-temperature alloy pieces while humans operate computers and monitor the robots.

The company, which used to produce bicycle parts for major domestic manufacturers, now supplies precision car parts.

"We decided to transform the company in 2000 and increased spending on research and development," general manager Dai Jingmin said.

Since 2015, the company has spent more than 200 million yuan, one third of its output, on technological upgrades, the precision of its products and work safety.

Nationwide, the old growth engines are unable to carry the economy forward. The country is trying to transform the economy towards a model that draws strength from consumption, innovation and service.

The gains from the transformation are beginning to soothe the pains. Although growth rate fell to a 26-year low in 2016, it is steadier and perhaps more sustainable.

From 3D printing to genetic engineering, from drones to artificial intelligence, Chinese companies are leading the world in reshaping the technological and business landscape.

The economy is on the right development track, despite the downward pressure, said Zhang Junwei, an economist at the State Council Development Research Center.
An elderly woman dining at a nursing home in Hangzhou. [Sun Yidou/for China Daily]

SYDNEY - With an increasingly aging population expected throughout Asia over the next 100 years, a new report released Monday suggested that this will bring a wealth of future opportunities as well as some significant challenges.

The Deloitte Voice of Asia report suggested that the shifting demography in the Asian nations within this century towards a significantly larger percentage of aged citizens will see more people aged over 65 in Asia by the year 2042 than in the whole of Europe and North America combined.

Such a significant increase will be "challenging" to some nations, according to author of the report Chris Richardson, director of Deloitte Access Economics who told Xinhua on Monday that for China in particular, despite positive government actions, such as the introduction of the two-child policy in 2015, the markets continue to play a role in the shifting demography.

"When housing costs a fortune -- as it does in some key parts of China, but not all - then other things equal, that keeps the birth rate on a tight leash," Richardson said.

However, with the challenges comes great opportunity for China, particularly with its burgeoning groups of middle-class millennials. The report said that the generations of Chinese born after 1990 are a "force to be reckoned with" who will continue to drive consumption.

"It will be impossible to truly understand China's growing consumer spending without appreciating its confident young consumers, whose audacity of spending has provided a floor to growth against the backdrop of economic moderation," the report said.

Health care, a major new focus point for the emerging middle-class in China, extends to the ageing demographic as well, and as former Australian Trade Minister Craig Emerson told Xinhua recently that this provides for opportunities for further partnership between China and the rest of the world.

"There is a real emphasis on services (in China), but an area I think has enormous untapped potential is in health, and aged care. As China's middle class continues to grow, and as the Chinese population continues to age, which it inevitably will, there will be interest in very high quality health and aged care services," Emerson said.

This sentiment was shared by another former minister Andrew Robb, who said that the increasingly prosperous Chinese citizens are "demanding" more and more infrastructure in order to address the needs of a wealthy, yet ever-aging population.

"These sorts of issues are large scale issues. The infrastructure is required to deal with the ageing population, the medical facilities now are being demanded by the middle class in China, the educational standards are required," Robb said.

"All of these things are needed now that China is re-emerging into a major global economy, these are all expectations that their population has now as China moves into a more normal role in the global economy."

The report also highlighted the recent push by China to emerge as a world-leader in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, saying that this would serve as a bigger "game changer" for China than it will be for other countries around the world.

"The rise of robots and AI will have its biggest impact by replacing jobs involving repetitive tasks rather than those involving personal interaction. This poses a particular challenge for China, whose great advances in recent decades have been relatively more focussed in areas such as manufacturing rather than service sectors," the report said.

"Other things equal, that says the rise of machines looms larger as a game changer for China than it does for many other nations."

With the report stating that the billion-strong workforce in China "is far and away the greatest workforce the world has ever seen", the shift towards an ageing economy is one which will remain in the crosshairs of those tasked with ensuring China's prosperity well into the future.
KAZAN - Russia and China can cooperate more closely in industrial and high-tech fields, and the future of such a partnership will be rosy, Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov has said.

"We are always ready to develop cooperation in all areas where there is an opportunity to unite our potential," he told Xinhua in a recent exclusive interview here.

Manturov said he views Russia-China cooperation in industry and high technologies very positively and he has formed a working group on a wide range of industries together with Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology Miao Wei.

According to him, Russian fertilizers giant PhosAgro is considering with Chinese partners joint production of hydrochloric acid at one of its plants.

The Ammonium firm located in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan is mulling the possibility of Chinese investment in the expansion of the range of its ammonia-based products.

Russia has also invited Chinese enterprises to participate in the creation of industrial parks for the production of value added aluminum items.

According to Manturov, Russia exports its electricity, hydrocarbon resources and primary aluminum, but it paradoxically imports finished aluminum products.

"Therefore, to create added value in Russia, we are now considering with colleagues from foreign countries, particularly from China, the possibility of their participation in expanded production of cables or aluminum wheel plates for cars," he said.

China and Russia are now jointly developing a wide-body long-range airliner and they have reached the stage of a draft design, during which potential suppliers of components and units will be selected and the final look of the aircraft will be decided, said Manturov.

He said both sides are currently discussing the name for the new plane, which should be universally accepted in Chinese, Russian and global markets.

"We consciously chose this option (of civil aviation cooperation), realizing that by using our joint potential of fundamental and applied sciences and markets, we will be able to achieve the result faster than if we work separately," he said.

To explore more cooperation, Manturov and Miao met earlier this week in Kazan to discuss further partnerships in civil aviation, raw materials, equipment and radio electronics.

After the discussion, the two ministers witnessed the signing of an agreement on proposed Chinese investment in Tatarstan and a memorandum of understanding on holding a China-Russia innovation competition.

Manturov told Xinhua that the two countries can cooperate on a wide range of products and the most important thing is to create conditions for business, which will then advance concrete proposals and ideas.

He said the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade is pushing for reducing barriers in the field of standards and in the formation of a favorable investment climate.
LUXOR - Egypt is eager to tap into the Chinese market to revive its ailing tourism industry, Governor of Egypt's Luxor Governorate Mohamed Badr told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Badr noted that the number of Chinese tourists has already notably increased after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Egypt in early 2016.

The Chinese president toured Luxor during his visit to Egypt, and the reports of this visit by major Chinese media outlets helped attract more Chinese tourists to visit Luxor, the governor said.

Badr said the inflow of Chinese tourists has somehow revived the tourism business in Luxor, which is a favorite attraction for tourists after the Pyramids.

Tourism in Egypt, a major source of its national income and foreign currency reserve, was dealt a further blow by the Russian airplane crash in North Sinai in October, 2015 after which several countries, including Britain and Russia, suspended their flights to Egypt.

This aggravated the recession in the country's already ailing tourism sector due to political instability.

Even before the Russian plane crash, Egypt suffered a sharp decline in tourists due to three years of political turmoil, including two mass uprisings that toppled two presidents, forcing several countries to ban their citizens from traveling to Egypt for safety reasons.

Luxor, once an ancient Egyptian capital, suffered similarly as other Egyptian tourist cities.

Amid the dire conditions, Egypt now pins big hope on China, a growing tourist market, to revive its tourism sector.

"We are focusing more on the Chinese market. I have given orders to add Chinese language to all direction signs on roads and tourist sites across Luxor," Badr said.

The governor said he has a general impression that the Chinese tourists, who are very well educated, come to Luxor because they want to learn more about the history of ancient Egypt.

Official figures from the Egyptian Embassy in Beijing show that the number of Chinese tourists who visited Egypt in the first five months this year nearly doubled from last year.

A total of 147,000 Chinese tourists visited the most populous Arab country from January to May 2017, marking a 94 percent rise from the same period last year.

China has become the fourth largest exporter of tourists to Egypt since the beginning of 2017.

Statistics also show that Chinese tourists spent 850,000 tourist nights in Egypt from January to May 2017, compared to 161,000 tourist nights in the same period last year.

"We have some four sister cities in China and in the next months we will have two more Chinese cities," the governor said, adding that he hopes to have more direct flights between Luxor and Chinese cities.

Badr noted that he is trying to market Luxor as a tourist attraction by giving Chinese tourists a good impression so every visitor would have a good story to tell back home.

Badr stressed that Luxor is totally safe, as his team is working hard to increase security and tourist facilities.

"We have also developed the road network in the province. I expect more tourists, mainly Chinese, to come to Luxor this year," he said.

Speaking about a Chinese initiative to construct an opera house in Luxor, Badr said a protocol of cooperation would be signed soon.

"We have already allocated a piece of land for the opera in front of the Nile," he said, adding that it will be jointly funded by culture ministries in China and Egypt.

In January 2016, Egypt's cabinet approved a Chinese initiative to establish a new opera house in Luxor, which was proposed during the visit of President Xi to the historic city.

"I think it is very important to establish such a cultural and artistic minaret in Luxor. I believe that we will know soon when the construction work will start," Badr said.

The governor predicted that it will take 18 to 20 months to finish building the opera house.

"We have connections in history, we are the cradles of civilization; we are developing the world together," Badr said, referring to the friendship between Egypt and China.
PARIS - Europe should join the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as soon as possible, said Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former French prime minister and president of the Foundation for Innovation and Future Technologies, a partner of BOAO Forum for Asia (BFA).

"Let's grasp the opportunity and make more profits. I believe we'll achieve win-win results through cooperating with our Asian partners," Raffarin told Xinhua on Friday.

The Belt and Road Initiative aims to enhance reciprocity for countries along the route. "France as well as other European countries need rapid growth. We should get involved instead of just discussing it because we will lose a lot of time then," he said.

"The initiative is very important for Europe" and French President Emmanuel Macron" has repeatedly said that a new driving force must be built within Eurasia, said Raffarin, adding that China is "offering a helping hand."

In this context, Raffarin noted the necessity of French-Sino work "to reassure the worried countries, to create a climate of confidence by putting forward the fundamental principles that underpin this project: respect, reciprocity, balance. It is necessary to create confidence."

Chinese President Xi Jinping has said several times that nowadays a country cannot succeed on its own, Raffarin said, adding that the initiative is conducive to combating tendencies of excessive nationalism and protectionism.

"We believe the world economy will be more open ... Excessive nationalism and generalized protectionism lead to tensions," he said.

When asked about the cultural aspect of the initiative, Raffarin said, "The relationship between France and China is primarily cultural. Economic and industrial relations are also very important, but what brings the two nations closer is the importance they attached to their great civilizations and their attachment to cultural values," he said.

"A French will know more about his mother country as he tries to know more about China, and vice versa," he added.

"I repeat, like all other French authorities, Chinese investments are welcome in Europe," he added.

The BFA hosts high-level forums for leaders from government, business and academia in Asia and other continents to share their vision on the most pressing issues in this dynamic region and the world at large.
Ulrich Spiesshofer, ABB chief executive officer. [Photo/VCG]

Shanghai will be the key to make the Yangtze River Delta a gateway to the Asia-Pacific, by leveraging its lead in digital technologies, ABB Chief Executive Officer Ulrich Spiesshofer told the 29th annual meeting of the International Business Leaders Advisory Council on Sunday.

The Yangtze River Delta generates more than 20 percent of China's GDP and it is among the country's most advanced areas in terms of economic vitality, degree of openness, innovative ability and absorption of immigrants.

As a leading city in the region, Shanghai boasts a well-developed transport network, a strong manufacturing base and a high level of connectivity, which lays a solid foundation to deploy digital technologies, Spiesshofer said.

By leveraging opportunities from industrial digital technologies, as well as the synergies between "Made in China 2025" initiative and the comprehensive city cluster development plan in the region, Shanghai can lead the delta region to a quantum leap in growth as it moves toward the goal of building a world-class conurbation, Spiesshofer said.

He referred to the "BosWash" region in the United States and the so-called "Blue Banana" in Europe, which went through similar transitions. In a digital, globalized world, the paradigm of cities is shifting when smart cities, big data in manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things are redefining the future of city clusters.
BANGKOK - China's Alipay and Thailand's Kasikorn Bank said on Saturday at Bangkok tourist hotspot Jatujak Market that they will enhance their cooperation in promoting QR code payment in Thailand.

The Thai Bank has already developed a mobile app which supports QR code payment for the Thai market. Chinese tourists can use Alipay app to scan the QR code generated by the Kasikorn app to complete the buying with Thai sellers.

"Chinese accounts for the majority of my customers and we just began to use the Kasikorn app a few days ago and we hope it will make buying more convenient for the Chinese customers," said Piyanas, a woman selling clothes at the Jatujak Market.

Viu, owner of a shop selling colorful notebooks, told Xinhua that she began to use the app this morning and one Chinese tourist had paid her by Alipay soon after.

During a press conference held inside the market, Pipavin Sodprasert, Thailand country manager for Ant Financial, which operates Alipay, told Xinhua that there are some 20,000 Thai businesses using their service and they aim to provide the convenience of QR Code payment, enjoyed by many Chinese now, to Thais, which is consistent with Thai government's target of cashless society.

"I have been to China for many times and we hope Chinese tourists can encourage our society to use e-payment," said Patchara Samalapa, senior executive vice president of Kasikorn Bank, adding that Thai customers can also use their app to scan and to pay.

The bank said their app is the first one that supports QR Code payment in Thailand and they aim to cover some 200,000 shops around the kingdom by the end of this year.
HARBIN - A 15-megawatt photovoltaic power station, with investment from China-based Sirius Holding Group, has been put into operation in Astrakhan, Russia.

The station generates 15,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per hour.

Cui Zhiwei, deputy general manager of Sirius, said the company's investment was expected to be recouped in five years.

Power demand in Russia has seen sustainable growth thanks to its economic recovery in recent years.
CAIRO - China Development Bank (CDB), the largest Chinese bank for foreign investment and financing cooperation, on Sunday signed two deals to provide loans to Egypt's two major financial institutions SAIBANK and Banque Misr.

The deals were signed at a ceremony at Banque Misr headquarters in Cairo, which was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Song Aiguo and representatives from the Central Bank of Egypt.

The first deal included two loan agreements, under which the CDB will provide SAIBANK with a loan of $40 million for small and medium-sized enterprises, and a special renminbi denominated loan of 260 million yuan ($40 million) for infrastructure construction.

"The deal includes about $40 million and their Chinese equivalent amount to promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and create many job opportunities," SAIBANK Vice Chairman Hassan Abdel-Meguid told Xinhua ahead of the signing ceremony.

He added that it comes within the framework of Sino-Egyptian cooperation in the light of the growing friendship and partnership between the two countries.

The second deal was a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between CDB and Banque Misr, in which the CDB will provide the Egyptian bank with a loan in Chinese currency renminbi for the first time.

"The loan amount is still being studied. Having the loan in the Chinese local currency will help provide loans to Chinese companies that operate or want to enter the Egyptian market in their own currency, which will encourage their investment in Egypt," Banque Misr Vice Chairman Akef Abdel-Latif al-Maghraby told Xinhua after signing the MoU.

Maghraby said it's important for China to have their own currency used more outside China, noting his bank has previously signed two loan agreements with the CDB that are worth $100 million and $500 million respectively.

Maghraby described Egypt's relations with China as "very strong and historical" with their close cultures and political and economic understanding and integration.

He stressed that Egypt is an active player in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013.

CDB Executive Vice-President Wang Yongsheng, who signed both deals with SAIBANK and Banque Misr, said the agreements marked a big step forward for the internationalization of the Chinese currency renminbi within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

"It is just the beginning of a brighter future for the cooperation between China and Egypt under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative," Wang told Xinhua.

CDB chose Egypt as the destination for its first overseas representative office established in 2009, which is also the only Chinese financial institution in Egypt.

It has also provided financial service to support various sectors in Egypt, including energy, telecommunication, banking, manufacturing, and small and medium-sized enterprises. By the end of 2016, CDB's loan outstanding in Egypt had reached more than 2 billion dollars.

At the invitation of President Xi, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi took part in the summit meeting of the BRICS economic bloc grouping Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, which was held in Xiamen, China, on Sept 3-5.

Meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit, Xi told Sisi that China is ready to advance the comprehensive strategic partnership with Egypt.

"During the BRICS summit, President Xi and President Sisi vowed to enhance partnership in various fields, including financial cooperation," Ambassador Song told Xinhua.

"So, I am happy to witness the signing of the joint financial deals today as the best example of what we can achieve through cooperation between the two countries," he added.
The freight train is full from China to Lithuania, but it comes back empty.

"How to use this train back for our exports: this is also a question that we should take on board and consider, how to promote our exports."

The Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Economy, Lina Sabaitiene, made these remarks in an interview with China Daily on Friday, while talking about the first cargo train which set off from Wuxi in East China's Jiangsu province for Lithuania in June for reloading goods before moving ahead to Germany and France.

Bringing freight trains linking China and countries in Europe and those along the Belt and Road Initiative, or CHINA RAILWAY Express, through Lithuania is chief among the efforts the country is making to participate in the China-proposed initiative, comprising the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which aims to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa on and beyond the ancient Silk Road routes.

Lina Sabaitiene, vice-minister of economy of Lithuania. [Photo by Tan Xinyu / chinadaily.com.cn]

"We have a big interest in transport and in logistics," Sabaitiene said, adding that her country is working hard to have parcels from China go through Lithuania. The vice-minister then wants to use Lithuanian ports or railways to distribute the cargo to western Europe, although she noted there is a fierce competition for this between Lithuania, Latvia and other countries.

Joining the European Union in 2004 and the Eurozone in 2015, Lithuania is a country with a population of about 2.85 million that covers markets with a total population of 700 million, including EU and Scandinavian countries. And it also has the only non-freezing port in the Baltics, Klaipeda, which connects sea, land and railway routes from east to west.

According to an analysis by Enterprise Lithuania, a non-profit agency under the country's Ministry of Economy, the trade gap between China and Lithuania has tended to narrow.

As a report issued by the agency in 2017 shows, in 2015, Lithuania's imports exceeded exports more than seven times, with imports increasing by almost 9 percent to 725 million euro ($866 million) and exports growing by 0.2 percent to 102 million euro. In 2016, the volume of imports declined by 2 percent to 708 million euro, and total exports grew by 20 percent to 123 million euro, sending the imports to an amount six times that of the exports.

On that subject, Sabaitiene said, "We want to further expand our [China and Lithuania] cooperation and investment, which is still at the beginning stage".

One of the important tasks for Sabaitiene and her delegation in this trip to China is to promote the free economic zones in Lithuania, so as to attract more Chinese investment to the Baltic state.

There are seven free economic zones in Lithuania, which, as Sabaitiene said, provide enterprises with tax incentives and other favorable policies. Yet no Chinese company has started business in these zones up to now.

Additionally, a pool of talents who have received higher education and can speak fluent English and other foreign languages, a large market accessibility, the "made in the EU" label, technologies and infrastructure in Lithuania are only some advantages Sabaitiene mentioned in her interview.

As Lithuania tries to strengthen relations with China, she said, her country hopes mutually beneficial cargo transports between the countries become a fixture.

"We not only want the first try at trains that go from China to Lithuania, but also we want to make regular [trips], and frequent ones. Of course, we have to fill in with freight."
Bob Baldwin (center), advisor to Australia International Trade Association & Associates, poses for a photo with Ken Smith (left), president of Australia China Business Council Victoria, and Daryl Guppy, president of the Northern Territory chapter of the Australia China Business Council, in Beijing, Sept 18, 2017. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Under the great leadership of the Chinese government, Australian businesses are very confident about the Chinese economy in the next five years, Bob Baldwin, advisor to Australia International Trade Association & Associates, said in an exclusive interview with chinadaily.com.cn.

Baldwin, who is also former parliamentary secretary to the minister for industry of the Australia Federal Government, said the Chinese economy hasn't slowed down in terms of bilateral trade between China and Australia, especially in certain sectors, such as agriculture. The Chinese economy has been developed at a very healthy and stable pace in the past five years.

"The Chinese economy is still one of the greatest economies in the world and most of the countries in the world will be happy to have the growth rate that China has in its economy right now," Baldwin said.

International financial heavyweight the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently upgraded their outlook for the Chinese economy and raised its estimate for China's 2017 growth to 6.7 percent, 0.1 percentage point higher than its last prediction.

This is in line with Baldwin's opinion, which can been interpreted as a show of confidence in China's economic growth.

One of the confidence boosters of the Chinese economy is what he read this week in the newspaper, that President Xi Jinping has directed great controls on intellectual property rights and prosecutions of those who breach intellectual property rights, Baldwin added.

"If you want to secure technologies from Australia, if you want to secure joint ventures and investments from Australia, people need to feel they have protection in their intellectual property rights," Baldwin said.

In Baldwin's opinion, China has shaken off the possibility of a hard landing, as the country has successful launched the Belt and Road Initiative and played an important role in the ninth BRICS Summit.

"The idea of a hard landing was really a story that was generated by many western commentators who failed to understand the structure of the Chinese economy and high level of domestic savings, so there was never a high probability of a hard landing economy in China," said Daryl Guppy, the president of the Northern Territory chapter of the Australia China Business Council.

Guppy believes the whole structure of the economy is very different, as the country can draw a large reserve of domestic savings, which means it may not be involved in international borrowing in the same way other countries are in Europe and in the United States.

"If we put the idea of a hard landing to one side and concentrate on the real issues of economic development and economic sustainability going forward, the Belt and Road Initiative is an important part of that. It will succeed because it doesn't rely on extensive borrowing from overseas," Guppy said.

China has already showed that their management after 2008 was some of the best management of economic development in the world, so there is no possibility for a hard landing for the Chinese economy, Guppy said.

Ken Smith, president of Australia China Business Council Victoria, highlighted the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative for both China and Australia.

Australia also wants to sell its products to Europe or other parts of the world along the Belt and Road through China, so the Belt and Road Initiative is not only important to China but also to Australia and the world as well, Smith said.

The Chinese market, with the increasing demand from the rising middle-class and strong consumption power, is very important to Australia and the world, and Australian businesses should have seized opportunities, especially after the Free Trade Agreement took effect two years ago, Baldwin said.

China and Australia have great cooperation potential in not only mineral and iron and ore industries, but also the tourism and education industries in the next five years, according to Baldwin.

Baldwin took the tourism industry as an example and pointed out that the collaboration between China's UnionPay International and Tourism Australia would ensure enjoyable and smoother experiences for Chinese tourists using the service in Australia, and stimulate Chinese visitors' spending in Australia.

As one of Australia's fastest-growing sources of tourists, China has been Australia's highest spending market for six consecutive years, said Australian Trade Minister Steve Ciobo in an interview with Xinhua News Agency.

The minister said about 1.2 million Chinese tourists visited Australia last year, and this is forecast to nearly double by 2020. These same Chinese tourists spent A$9.7 billion ($7.7 billion) in Australia in the year ending March 2017, Xinhua reported.

The anti-corruption campaign has demonstrated China's determination and capacity to push forward with reform and gives Australian businesses confidence that China can provide a stable, clean and healthy business environment for international investors, Guppy said.
BEIJING - Wang Junfeng and seven fellow Chinese researchers at Harvard Medical School gave up life in the United States to move to a small island on the outskirts of Hefei, capital of East China's Anhui province.

"Science Island" is home to more than 10 research institutes and 1,000 top researchers - and an ideal place to focus on their research, they said.

In the 1990s and early 21st Century, many Chinese college students flocked to developed countries to pursue studies and professions with the help of more advanced research equipment.

In the past two decades, as its economy blossomed, China has attached greater importance to science and technology, making it an increasingly attractive base for researchers.

Wang said he came to the island because advanced experimental equipment on steady high magnetic fields was to be built there. It would make China the fifth country in the world to have such equipment.

Kuang Guangli, leader of the project, said the team has already made an impact in international academic circles and that the members have made greater academic achievements here than they did in Harvard.

Sci-tech boom

Experience in China over almost a century has shown that it is necessary to mobilize efforts and resources to concentrate on major tasks. Now the experience is being applied to scientific and technological innovation.

Innovation is at the heart of China's 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020), which sets the aims to become an "innovation nation" by 2020, an international leader in innovation by 2030, and a world powerhouse in scientific and technological innovation by 2050.

At the forefront of fundamental research and strategic key technologies in fields such as space, deep sea, super computers and quantum communication, China has shown determination and speed, capturing world attention.

Over the past year, Chinese have been inspired by landmark achievements in science and technology.

Chinese scientists completed all the experiments designed for the world's first quantum satellite a year ahead of schedule, laying the foundation for a hack-proof global quantum communication network.

China's supercomputer, Sunway TaihuLight, was crowned the world's fastest computer at both the 2016 and 2017 International Supercomputing Conferences held in Frankfurt, Germany.

In early July, China made breakthroughs in the search for alternative clean energy sources by completing a 60-day trial of mining gas hydrates, commonly known as combustible ice, in the South China Sea.

"Combustible ice is considered a strategic alternative to oil and natural gas," China Geological Survey Bureau's deputy director Li Jinfa said. "The whole world is looking towards it."

In mid-June, China launched its first X-ray space telescope to observe black holes, pulsars and gamma-ray bursts.

"I am really impressed with how China is developing its scientific space program," said Arvind Parmar, head of the Scientific Support Office in the Science Directorate of European Space Agency (ESA). "The recent launches of the Dark Matter Particle Explorer and the Quantum Experiments at Space Scale missions highlight China's capabilities and commitment to science as does the range of missions under study for future launch opportunities."

China took a major step toward becoming a global aviation powerhouse as its homegrown large passenger plane, the C919, took to the sky on May 5. The flight makes China the fourth jumbo jet producer after the United States, Western Europe and Russia.

Last year, China launched its first space lab, Tiangong-2, and sent the Shenzhou-11 manned spaceship to dock with it. Two Chinese astronauts stayed in Tiangong-2 for a month, setting a new Chinese record for space residency.

In April this year, China launched its first cargo spacecraft, Tianzhou-1, to dock with Tiangong-2, to test space refueling technology, laying the foundation for building the country's space station.

This string of achievements shows the innovation-driven development strategy is paying dividends.

A report jointly issued by the National Center for Science and Technology Evaluation and Clarivate Analytics said China's expenditure on research and development accounted for 1.42 percent of GDP in 2006 and the ratio increased to 2.1 percent in 2016.

In 2016, China had over 1.1 million patents for inventions, ranking the third after the United States and Japan.

The latest Global Innovation Index showed China rose three places to 22nd on the list of the world's most innovative nations in 2017, the only middle-income country to join the top 25 innovative economies.

Origin of innovation

In the 13th Five-Year Plan, the evolution of the universe was given pride of place on the scientific research list. It was followed by material structure, the origins of life, and neurology.

"Fundamental questions, like this, have the power to influence solutions to some of the most prominent problems faced by society and the world at large," said Han Song, a Chinese sci-fi writer.

With economic pressures forecast to continue, China is committed to fostering new development momentum through innovation.

China has been striving to upgrade its industrial structure and shift its economy to a growth model that draws strength from innovation as its competitive advantages in low labor and raw material costs are eroded.

Zhang Xinmin, a researcher with the Institute of High Energy Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), said China is starting to value basic science.

Zhang, who studies primordial gravitational waves in Ngari, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, said research is the origin of innovation. Without it, innovation on a large scale is unachievable.

Studying the evolution of the universe seems unrelated to more pressing issues, such as lifting tens of millions of people out of poverty by 2020.

However, Hugo Award-winning author Liu Cixin said many advances rely on science and technology.

Wu Ji, director of the CAS National Space Science Center, said that since China's first satellite was launched into space nearly 50 years ago, a number of communications, remote sensing and navigation satellites have followed.

"If China wants to be a strong global nation, it should not only care about immediate interests, but also contribute to humankind. Only that can win China the real international respect," Wu said.

China will produce another five or six scientific satellites by 2020, which will aid research into black holes, dark matter, quantum physics and the space environment.

"If you want to innovate, you must have knowledge of the sciences. Space science is inseparable from China's innovation-driven development," said Wu.

A Chinese probe is expected to land on Mars in 2021.

"Exploring the red planet and deep space will mean that China can establish itself as a scientific and technological leader. The knock-on effect is that inventions and independent intellectual property rights will surge, and, as a result, China's core competence will increase, pushing development in other industries," said Jia Yang, deputy chief designer of China's Mars rover.

"Although China still lags behind scientifically-advanced countries in some areas, we have made great strides in basic science and space science. As long as we are diligent, in the near future we will achieve great success," said Chang Jin, vice-director of the CAS Purple Mountain Observatory.
Bitcoins. [Photo/VCG]

Cryptocurrency had been channel to transfer personal assets overseas

China's crackdown on bitcoin exchanges is a sign that the top regulator no longer tolerates cryptocurrency trading in the country as it has fueled illegal fundraising and cross-border money laundering, experts told China Daily.

Two of China's bitcoin exchanges, Huobi and OKCoin, both announced on Saturday that they will halt all virtual currency trading by the end of October, after they "received the notice and guidance from the regulators" according to their websites.

The Beijing News reported on Monday that senior managers of these two exchanges were forbidden to leave Beijing, and are required by financial regulators to cooperate with further investigations.

It followed the announcement of BTCChina, one of the country's biggest bitcoin exchanges, saying it will close its trading platform by the end of this month.

Bitcoin rebounded by more than 8 percent to $3,974 in intraday trading on Monday, up about 30 percent from Friday's low-ebb of $2,972, as investors calmed after digesting the exchange closure news.

"It is unlikely that the cryptocurrency trading will re-commence in the short term, as the financial regulators have made this decision," said Deng Jianpeng, a professor at the Law School of Minzu University of China.

More detailed explanations are expected from the central bank and other relevant government departments that may clarify the boundaries of illegal trading, he said.

Without mature and special laws on bitcoin trading, the cryptocurrency's exchange was seen as a channel to transfer personal assets overseas, which is supposed to be under the supervision of the country's foreign exchange administration.

Speculative investment fueled bitcoin's surge to around $5,000 earlier this year, marking a five-fold increase since the end of 2016.

Du Yan, executive director of the Asia-Pacific Future Financial Research Institute, said that the regulators' crackdown is "reasonable and just in time" to cool down the irrational investment and prevent potential financial risks.

The regulatory cost, from illegal fundraising and cross-border money laundering emerging from bitcoin trading, is much higher than the innovation benefits from the cryptocurrency, pushing policymakers to make the decision, said Du.

So far, the Chinese regulator has yet to identify bitcoin and other digital assets as illegal currencies.

The crackdown, as Deng said, will not spark market panic as the investors have accepted these facts since the information has been released gradually by media and the exchanges since earlier this month.

The People's Bank of China, the central bank, ruled earlier this month that initial coin offerings are illegal, as it has become a tool to raise funds bypassing the traditional regulatory system.

The National Internet Finance Association of China also warned investors earlier that bitcoin and other "virtual currencies" lack a clear base for valuation, and have become tools for illegal fundraising, money laundering, drug dealing and smuggling.
A visitor looks at a drone made by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp at an industry expo held in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo/VCG]

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, the nation's defense industry conglomerate, has vowed to answer the government's call to complete key internal corporate reforms by the end of this year.

Wang Zhanyu, deputy director of the department of strategy management at CASC, said at a media briefing that in addition to responding to the State Council's timeline to complete its corporate reforms by 2017, it has vowed to accelerate the process of spinning off its social functions by 2018, which is an essential part of deepening the reform of SOEs.

It also plans to promote mixed ownership reform, through raising its asset securitization rate to over 45 percent by 2020.

The restructuring is included in the broader SOE reforms administered by the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, the top SOE watchdog.

Specifically, the reform of CASC has been boosted by innovation-driven development, as can be seen from its achievements, such as BeiDou, China's leading satellite navigation system, manned space projects and the lunar exploration program.

Its Earth Observing System satellite program has increased the nation's self-sufficiency rate of high-resolution remote sensing data to over 70 percent, playing an essential role in information security.

According to Wang, CASC is constantly fine-tuning its management system and is making various innovations in this field.

In the past five years, the company has launched over 80 Long March rockets, with the launch frequency growing over 22 percent year-on-year. In 2016, the firm's launch frequency already shared the first place with the United States.

The company owes these achievements to its innovation breakthroughs. Its guidelines in response to the nation's "Made in China 2025" Initiative reduced its launch cycle and product cycle by 30 percent and 40 percent respectively, while raising its launch success rate to 95.6 percent, which is in line with the international standard. Moreover, the costs were lowered by around 20 percent.

Dong Yan, a researcher at the Institute of World Economics and Politics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that the reforms led by the government, benefit SOEs such as CASC, as they adjust their structure and operation system and are better equipped to face international challenges.
On September 16, the first day of the second China-Russia New Media Forum, five Chinese students together with 11 Russian counterparts went to the Don River.

There they traveled across the desert, paid a visit to a stable and exchanged ideas with each other.

They also visited the residence of Russian novelist Mikhail Aleksandrovich Sholokhov, author of famous book And Quiet Flows the Don.

Lan Juxin, a Chinese student, shot a short video on the first day.

Let's take a look at the video.
Visitors look at a BMW i8 car at the 2017 Frankfurt Auto in Germany. [Photo/Agencies]

PARIS/FRANKFURT - The battle over how and where Europeans charge their electric cars is now moving from the continent's cities to its motorways.

Power utilities, tech startups and oil majors are fighting to establish themselves as the dominant players in the fast-growing business of charging stations - but advances in electric vehicles mean that where they build them is changing.

Refueling conventional petrol and diesel cars on motorways has long been the domain of the oil companies, which typically have their own networks of filling stations.

Several are now talking about setting up high-power charging networks, creating major competition for limited space at motorway service areas.

"It is a bit of a landgrab now to win this sector," said Tim Payne, chief executive of British charging startup InstaVolt, which has raised 12 million pounds ($16 million) to install 3,000 charge points across Britain by 2020.

While the range of electric vehicles was less than 100 km, Europe's utilities were happy to help cities and companies install slow and inexpensive charging points at homes, offices and shops, often supported by state subsidies.

But Tesla, Porsche and BMW are now making battery-powered cars with enough range to drive across countries. Daimler and Volkswagen also announced plans on the eve of last week's Frankfurt motor show to accelerate their shift to electric cars.

Charging infrastructure, however, remains nowhere near it needs to be.

"Where is the network of charging points that will be required? Indeed where is the power and the grid?" Ralf Speth, chief executive of Britain's Jaguar Land Rover, asked.

Experts including Charge-Point and Engie are, however, making plans to build pan-European networks of high-voltage fast-charging stations which can refill a battery in less than half an hour instead of overnight.

In Britain, InstaVolt is renting land from filling station operators, bringing them additional revenue from the lease as well as the increased traffic to their shops at the sites. It earns a margin by selling power through the chargers.

InstaVolt struck a deal in May with ChargePoint, which itself is on a $125 million expansion spree in Europe, to install about 200 of the US group's ultra-fast chargers close to popular roads across Britain.

Morgan Stanley estimates that 1-3 million public charging points could be needed in western Europe by 2030, adding that while utilities have natural skills in the new industry, it was too early to determine who will come out on top.

"The winning business model is up for grabs," it said.

Today, there are fewer than 100,000 public charging points available in Europe, with only about 6 percent of them fast, according to the International Energy Agency.

Almost none of these is super-fast, a term usually used for charging stations with an output of at least 150 kilowatts. More than three times faster than current-generation chargers, they are now being targeted by those trying to become market leaders.

Contenders include Dutch EV-Box, one of Europe's biggest makers of charging stations, which was snapped up by French utility Engie in March.

"We expect hundreds of millions (of dollars) in annual revenue from EV-Box in a few years," Thierry Lepercq, head of innovation at Engie, told Reuters.

He sees Engie's EV charging revenue growing by a factor of 20 in three to five years. Last year, EV-Box had sales of 16 million euros ($19.1 million).

EV-Box Chief Executive Kristof Vereenooghe said that unlike most of its competitors EV-Box has been profitable from the start, a claim that makes it stand out in an industry where gaining scale is considered more important for now. That's why German utility E.ON, too, announced a strategic partnership with Danish startup CLEVER and said it had the ambition to roll out several hundred ultra-fast charging stations along European motorways.

REUTERS
Visitors at the stand of the Beijing Hainachuan Automotive Parts at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. [Photo provided to China Daily]

A BAIC Group subsidiary is partnering with international automotive parts suppliers to better explore the potential of the world's largest automotive market.

Beijing Hainachuan Automotive Parts Co is considering opportunities with various partners, according to agreements it signed on Sept 13 during the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany.

BHAP is one of the first Chinese suppliers to show its latest products and technology at the Frankfurt Motor Show, including lightweight materials, advanced driving assistance systems, electric car gearboxes, electric steering systems and many other products.

"We have carried out studies for years in new technologies such as intelligent, electric and light-weighted vehicles," said Han Yonggui, chairman of BHAP and also a board member of BAIC Group.

"We have been working hard to improve our capabilities in independent research and development, as well as technological innovation, to make major breakthroughs in key technologies."

The agreement signed with Hella Group indicates the two will explore intelligent driving, automotive electronics and the aftermarket business. BHAP also signed a memorandum of understanding with Magna International to build a joint venture that will specialize in door locks, windows and audio speakers.

The joint venture is designed to offer products for 300,000 cars a year, with Beijing Benz Automotive Co being its major customer.

ZF Group is another international giant that inked a joint venture deal with BHAP on the same day.

The two will produce EVD2 electric drivetrain products for BAIC EV, a BAIC Group new energy car arm, and other new energy vehicle makers in the country.

Since 2013, BHAP and ZF have been working on chassis, driving systems and new energy products.

Zhang Xiyong, general manager of BHAP's parent company, BAIC Group, believes the cooperation will generate productive results.

"Great opportunities for development will surely appear in the revolution of auto parts technology, the basis of innovation in vehicle technology.

"I hope BHAP will work with its partners to deepen mutual trust, further strengthen collaboration in new energy and intelligent fields, ensure open, tolerant and innovative cooperation and make fresh progress in promoting strategic partnership."

BAIC Group is one of the largest carmakers in China and has established partnerships with Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai. One of the country's fastest growing suppliers, BHAP has a rich portfolio of products ranging from interiors and exteriors, to chassis and power systems. The company has six R&D centers and 14 manufacturing facilities around the world.

Its major customers include global brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW and Volvo. Its sales revenue in 2016 reached 48.8 billion yuan ($7.45 billion).
(Left to right): Donovan Sung, director of product management and marketing of Xiaomi Global; Manu Jain, managing director of Xiaomi India; and Jon Gold, global director of Android Partner Programs, launch the Mi A1, Xiaomi's flagship, dual-camera smartphone at a function in New Delhi on Sept 5, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

Xiaomi steps up global expansion to ride the 'third wave' of chances

Xiaomi Corp is expanding its overseas footprint to complete its transformation from a Chinese smartphone maker into a technology giant.

Sitting on a recent 1 billion loan, and armed with more international patents, Xiaomi, founded in 2010, is itching for global marketing scraps with Apple Inc and Samsung Electronics Co.

On Aug 24, the Beijing-based company announced its formal entry into Thailand in collaboration with distribution partner VST ECS (Thailand) Co Ltd. At the event, Xiaomi announced that its flagship smartphone, the Mi 6, as well as the Redmi Note 4, are now available in Thailand.

The move came shortly after Xiaomi said in July that its wholly-owned subsidiary Xiaomi HK Ltd had signed a three-year $1 billion syndicated loan agreement with 18 banks.

A big part of the money would be used to accelerate global expansion.

So far, Xiaomi has a presence in over 40 countries and regions, with impressive growth in Indonesia, Russia, Ukraine, India and other markets.

Lei Jun, founder and CEO of Xiaomi, said competing for global market share represents the third wave of opportunities that will shape the Chinese smartphone industry.

The first wave of opportunities came on the back of urban Chinese smartphone adoption; the second wave came thanks to new smartphone users in China's third- and fourth-tier cities.

"Seizing this opportunity marks the beginning of Xiaomi's journey as a technology company on the global stage," Lei said.

According to the company, after three years of investments to explore overseas markets, it has racked up successive wins this year.

"Our performance in India has been especially encouragingrevenue in the first half of this year is up 328 percent year-on-year and we are now the second-ranked brand in the overall Indian smartphone market," Lei said in a company memo in July.

The performance is in line with forecasts. Data from research consultancy Strategy Analytics showed that in the second quarter of this year, Xiaomi had acquired 15.6 percent share of India's smartphone market. In comparison, the corresponding number in 2016 was 3.3 percent.

Neil Shah, research director at Counterpoint Technology Market Research, said Xiaomi is dominating the online sales channel in India with sub-$150 phones, similar to the market segment it won in China when it was at its peak.

Such performance marks a turnaround, considering the tough time Xiaomi had a year ago. Back then, its shipments plummeted over successive quarters amid mounting competition in China from fellow Chinese players such as Huawei Technologies Co Ltd and Oppo Electronics Corp.

Its online-sales model was also widely questioned as consumers in small cities were still more willing to buy smartphones at brick-and-mortar stores.

In response, Xiaomi stepped up investments in research and development, and embraced the New Retail model, successfully integrating online and offline retail partners.

In the second quarter of this year, it shipped 23.16 million smartphones globally, up 70 percent sequentially, marking a record high for its quarterly smartphone shipments.

Wang Xiang, senior vice-president in charge of Xiaomi's global expansion, said there are plans to open 2,000 brick-and-mortar stores within three years, with half of them overseas.

Also, Xiaomi is channeling more resources into innovation. In February, the company launched the Surge S1, a proprietary chipset, helping it to join the ranks of Apple, Samsung and Huawei which have mastered the complicated in-house chip-making capabilities.

"Innovation combined with patent accumulation is the cornerstone of Xiaomi's overseas expansion strategy," Lei said.

The company has 4,806 patents, of which 2,404 are international patents. According to Lei, Xiaomi will hire thousands of R&D professionals for its smartphone business within the next 12 months, as part of its broader push to reach the goal of shipping 100 million smartphones in 2018.

The company did not disclose how many handsets it shipped last year.

To expand its technology portfolio, Xiaomi has signed a multi-year patent agreement with Nokia in July. The agreement includes a cross license for each other's cellular-standard patents. Xiaomi has also acquired patents from Nokia as part of the transaction.

The move came after it bought around 1,500 patents from Microsoft Corp last year.

"The intellectual property partnership with Nokia, once the world's biggest phone maker, can help it tackle potential legal disputes overseas," said Xiang Ligang, a telecom expert and CEO of telecom industry website cctime.com.
A child seat installed on an Ofo shared bicycle. Such seats are available on Taobao. [Photo provided to China Daily]

People violating user agreements are liable for accidents, companies say

Shared bike companies discourage the use of removable child seats on their bikes and warn that users must take full responsibility for any accidents involving a child seat.

The child seats - which can be attached to different brands of shared bikes - popped up in online marketplaces with advertisements claiming the products are safe, reliable and easily attached and removed from the bikes.

But several bike-sharing companies including Ofo, Mobike and Mingbikes released statements saying their user agreements forbid carrying extra passengers on the bikes because of safety risks, and warning that they assume no legal responsibility if a violation leads to an accident.

Ofo said its on-street personnel, who mostly shift bikes between locations depending on demand, will attempt to persuade bike users to remove child seats if they spot them. If persuasion fails, employees are instructed to contact the police, it said.

A Mobike employee in the public relations department who asked not to be named said the company has been contacting online shopping websites that sell the detachable child seats, including Taobao, and asking them to remove the product because of safety concerns.

"We have been negotiating with Taobao and other shopping websites to remove the child seats from the shelves because of potential safety risks, but the initiative is in the hands of the websites," the employee said.

Taobao said negotiations with Mobike are ongoing.

According to the Road Safety Law in effect since 2011, local governments can decide if bike riders can carry passengers depending on the local situation. For example, Beijing's road safety regulation allows adult riders to take passengers under age 12 on fixed seats, while riders under 18 are forbidden to carry passengers.

Wang Weiwei, a lawyer at Beijing Zhongwen Law Firm who has an interest in laws and regulations on road safety, said the child seats designed for the shared bikes are not "fixed", so their sale and use should be banned in Beijing and other cities with similar regulations.

"The bike company is still liable if an accident arises due to a quality issue with the bike," Wang said. "The shopping websites, along with the manufacturers, are also liable for compensation if they fail to monitor the goods they are selling on the platform," he said.

Zhu Wei, deputy director of the Communication Law Center at China University of Political Science and Law, said parents who knowingly use the product in violation of the user agreement should take primary responsibility for an accident or injury.

"The product manufacturer, who should have expected the safety risks the product brings about, is also to blame. In places where the product is contrary to local road safety regulations, the supervisory body should ban its sale and use," he said.

"Shared bikes have brought people back once again to the age of bicycles, but people are already unfamiliar with related regulations and laws. The public's awareness of the law and safety still needs to be improved."

The Beijing Commission of Transport did not respond to a request for comment.

In July, Ofo became the first shared bike company to face a lawsuit in China over an accident involving one of its bikes. The lawsuit came in March after an 11-year-old boy was killed in a collision with a bus in Shanghai.

Li Lei contributed to this story.
A memorial hall was opened in Anqing, Anhui province, on Saturday in honor of scientist Ye Duzheng, one of the founders of modern atmospheric science in China.

Ye, who died in 2013 at the age of 98, was a senior academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. He was one of two winners of the National Top Science and Technology Award in 2005, a three-time winner of the National Natural Sciences Award and the first Chinese laureate to win the International Meteorological Organization Prize in 2003.

The weather forecast we check on a daily basis is accurate largely thanks to Ye's contribution to the science of meteorology over more than 60 years.

The Ye family traces its roots to Anqing, though the scientist himself was born in Tianjin in 1916, when China began keeping modern meteorological records.

Persuaded by Qian Sanqiang, who later became China's founding father of nuclear physics, Ye changed his major in 1935 from physics to meteorology at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

He later went to the University of Chicago in the United States and received his doctorate under the guidance of Carl-Gustaf Rossby, the celebrated Swedish-American meteorologist.

Ye returned to China in 1950 and since then logged many scientific achievements, including establishing a team of 10 people to draw the country's first weather map.

"Ye was also the first scientist in China who raised the problem of climate change," said Li Chongyin, a meteorologist and a senior CAS academician.

The 1,200-square-meter memorial hall, built in the Ye family temple, includes exhibitions of Ye's life and exhibits on meteorological science.

The ancient building is the only existing family temple in the urban area of Anqing and has been listed as a protected cultural relic.

"Through this memorial hall, his love for the country and dedication to science can inspire more people," said Ye Weijiang, the son of Ye Duzheng. The younger Ye is also a scientist.
Sichuan-Tibet section of the National Highway 318 features dangerous winding mountain roads and 12 peaks that rise 4,000 meters above sea level.

But a 36-year-old man from Sichuan province and his 12-year-old son managed to walk its length in 40 days to reach Lhasa, capital of the Tibet autonomous region.

Zhang Wei, a native of Zigong, said he had planned the trek for nearly a year, taking his son's health into consideration.

"I had talked to my son about the hardships on the journey and gained his consent before we started on July 8," Zhang said.

One month before starting out, they made a detailed plan for each day, deciding what to wear, what tools, medicine and instruments to take, when to start each morning, the route to take and where to put up for the night.

They drank rhodiola rosea, a Tibetan medicinal herb believed to prevent and mitigate altitude sickness, and ran every day in order to improve their lung capacity.

On July 8, they took a bus from Zigong to Kangding in the Ganzi Tibetan autonomous prefecture, where they started walking along the Sichuan section of the National Highway 318.

Built from 1950 to 1954, the National Highway 318 starts in Shanghai, passes through Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui and Hubei provinces, Chongqing, Sichuan and ends in Tibet. With a length of 5,476 kilometers, it is the longest highway in the country.

At 5 am the next day, they started to cross Zheduo Mountain, 4,298 meters above sea level, with other hikers. Although Zhang and his son suffered altitude sickness, they dared not stop for fear they might not reach the campsite where they planned to sleep before it got dark.

Despite using drugs to battle against the sickness, they were so tired they lagged behind the other hikers and only managed to reach the campsite at 8 pm.

Frustrated, Zhang asked his son if they should stop. He said it was a great feat to cross Zheduo Mountain and they could return to Zigong without losing face. But his son said they should continue the journey.

The route from Kangding to Lhasa is 1,700 kilometers. Although it was summer, they experienced several different seasons in a single day. It was as cool as spring in the morning, as hot as summer at midday and as cold as winter in the evening.

Altitude sickness can make a hiker without any luggage feel as if he is carrying something heavy on his back.

Zhang had a backpack weighing 15 kilograms and his son had one weighing 10 kilograms. Each day they walked more than 30 kilometers.

Because of the hardships, Zhang said they wanted to give up every day, but always carried on the next day.

On Aug 17, the pair reached Lhasa, where they stayed for 10 days, visiting the Potala Palace, learning how to make Tibetan incense and visiting artists making thangka paintings (traditional Tibetan Buddhist art). On Aug 26, they flew from Lhasa to Chengdu.

Marveling at their impossible mission, some friends thought Zhang was mad taking a 12-year-old boy to Tibet on foot.

Yet the father said the purpose of the journey was to teach his son to be brave and endure hardships in life.

It was not the first time the pair had undertaken a long journey. In the summer of 2015, Zhang and his son went walking and climbing mountains in Yunnan province and the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region for 40 days. The next year, they went hiking in Guizhou province.
Editor's Note: China is rolling out a major documentary series on its diplomatic principles, practices and achievements over the past five years. The English-language version of the program is now also available on TV and online. To help audience better understand Chinese diplomacy, Xinhua is releasing a variety of reports that include anecdotes, quotable quotes, facts and figures.

BEIJING - The following is a set of numbers related to the international community's broad support for the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative:

100 -- On Jan. 18, 2017, at the United Nations Office in Geneva, President Xi Jinping delivered a speech, saying that the Belt and Road Initiative he put forward aims to achieve win-win and shared development.

"Over 100 countries and international organization have supported the initiative, and a large number of early harvest projects have been launched," he said.

30/50 -- Pakistan was the destination of Xi's first overseas visit in 2015. His 30-minute speech at the Pakistani parliament on April 21 was interrupted more than 50 times by applause. The leaders of various political parties in Pakistan expressed their strong support for the Belt and Road Initiative.

1+4 -- In a speech at the Pakistani parliament, Xi said:" The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a focal point of our joint efforts to achieve mutual development and we should use this economic corridor to drive our practical cooperation with focus on Gwadar Port, energy, infrastructure development and industrial cooperation."

The Belt and Road Initiative comprises the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, aiming to build trade and infrastructure networks along the ancient Silk Road routes connecting Asia with Europe, Africa and beyond.
An airport in Dalian, Liaoning province, has turned birds that died after hitting planes into specimens for educational purposes.

The 108 stuffed birds that died after flying into planes or getting caught in protective netting surrounding Dalian International Airport are displayed in a newly-built exhibition hall in the airport.

Each specimen has a QR code, which visitors can scan to see information about its behavior, flying formations and migration patterns.

Ci Jia, deputy manager of the airspace clearance department of Dalian International Airport, said the 220-square-meter exhibition hall will help her department's members of staff understand more about the "enemies" they are fighting to ensure flight safety.

In August alone, more than 50 airplanes that landed at the Dalian airport were found to have traces of birds hitting fuselages, according to the airport.

Ci said the birds that threaten the safety of flights at the airport range from sparrows and magpies to nighthawks, red-tailed butcherbirds, pigeons and little owls.

Dalian, in Northeast China, is on a migratory route where birds fly in autumn on their journey from the north to the south, she added.

The airport first came up with the idea of putting the birds on display in 1999.

"Our staff members found some of the dead birds around the airport were really rare, which prompted the idea to make them into specimens to let our employees know what birds they are dealing with," she said.

Ci said her department has continued to research the birds to discover what factors, including insects, plants and soil, are attractive to them. They have used the findings to make the airport less attractive to those particular birds.

The airport is also equipped with various bird deterrents, including ribbons, sprayers, insecticidal lamps as well as pneumatic, laser and audio devices, which are also on display in the exhibition hall.

Ci said the airport is becoming a platform for exhibition, scientific research, teaching and aviation security.
Students take photo at 2017 Zhejiang University graduation ceremony.[Photo/Chinanews.com]

Zhejiang University is now adopting articles from the internet into their academic evaluation.

A pilot evaluation method was rolled out on September 8 by the university, which includes outstanding online cultural achievements in the university's academic evaluation, the same as papers published in key academic journals.

Online cultural achievements will include articles, audio files, and comics trending on various platforms, having significant influence, reprinted or republished by multiple other major media platforms.

This is the first time a Chinese university has included online cultural achievements in its academic evaluation system.

Some have said it is a great leap forward for the current academic evaluation system as it acknowledges online publishing, while the others hold doubts over the academic seriousness of online articles.

Under the current evaluation criteria, Chinese scholars and students of most universities are graded on how many books they publish or papers that are published in key journals.
MACAO - The election of the sixth Legislative Assembly of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) wrapped up early on Monday morning, with more than half of the eligible voters casting their ballots, Macao SAR's legislative election management committee said.

A total of 174,872 eligible voters cast their votes for the 14 directly-elected seats, with the turnout rate reaching 57.22 percent, up by 2.2 percentage points compared with the previous election, according to the preliminary data by the committee.

Meanwhile, a total of 5,500 eligible voters cast their ballots for the 12 indirectly-elected seats, with the turnout rate reaching 91 percent, the data showed.

The preliminary results showed that 14 candidates won the directly-elected seats, and 12 won the indirectly-elected seats.

After receiving the audited vote counting of direct and indirect election, the SAR chief executive will appoint another seven seats, adding the total seat number of the sixth Legislative Assembly to 33.

This year's legislative election has been held smoothly and orderly, and was carried out in accordance with the Basic Law and the Law of Legislative Election of the Macao SAR, president of the legislative election management committee Tong Hio Fong told reporters after the polling wrapped up.

After the preliminary results was announced, the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Macao said in a statement that it congratulates on the smooth progress of the sixth legislative election in Macao SAR and the sixth term of the Legislative Assembly.

According to the Basic Law of the Macao SAR, the Legislative Assembly shall be the legislature of the SAR, and also an important part of Macao SAR's political mechanism, the statement said.

A total of 186 candidates from 24 groups ran for the 14 directly-elected seats, while 15 candidates from five vocational groups ran for the 12 indirectly-elected seats.

In line with the Basic Law, the new legislature is composed of 33 seats including 14 directly-elected seats, 12 indirectly-elected seats, and seven others which will be appointed by the SAR chief executive.

The term of office of the sixth Legislative Assembly is four years, which will start in October 2017.
Online articles accepted by more than 10 mainstream media outlets or have garnered more than 100,000 hits on WeChat platforms will qualify for academic credentials with the same status, said a proposal issued by Zhejiang University in eastern China on Friday.

The university aims to recognize online pieces of cultural excellence by its faculty members and students, according to the draft statement.

The top school also launched into a detailed explanation of the proposal via its official WeChat account. It said that varying forms of great works are welcomed, including original articles, audiovisual and animated products.

Those works should be published or printed in China's mainstream media, such as People's Daily, Guangming Daily and Qiushi Journal. In addition, they should enjoy great popularity among netizens, such as a piece with more than 400,000 reads on the Beijing-based tech-driven news and information platform Jinri Toutiao.

Other web portals like Sina, Tencent and Youku are covered in the approved list.

To foster the development of intellectual cultural products, authors can also apply for an honorary certificate or equivalent status as those who publish their pieces on core academic periodicals across China, the draft reads.

The university's move is an inclusive, innovative and modern one, as new media has bloomed and China has encouraged academic reform, said Zhu Wei, deputy director of the Research Center on Communication Laws at the China University of Political Science and Law.

But some thought the proposal might allow credential cheating in higher education.
Editor's note: In the lead up to the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress, which begins Oct 18, chinadaily.com.cn is focusing on delegates to the congress.

A file photo of Zhu Hongjun [Photo/81.cn]

Zhu Hongjun, an operator of the Rocket Force, is one of the 253 delegates elected from the People's Liberation Army to take part in the upcoming 19th Communist Party of China National Congress.

Serving the army for 17 years, Zhu has won numerous honors and titles, such as the first class sergeant of the army, top 10 squad head of the Rocket Force and top 10 excellent sergeant of the Rocket Force.

Soldiers, technicians and military officials have praised Zhu as a "soldier expert" for his deep theoretical knowledge of rockets and practical experience.

During a test launch, a problem occurred in the rocket, and two technicians failed to find the cause after checking it through the whole night, said Zeng Manjun, Zhu's brigade commander.

Before reporting the case to the senior officials, Zhu came for a simple check and climbed into the rocket where he reset two wires in darkness and fixed the problem in about 10 minutes, Zeng said.

"The best thing I have received from all these years is not the medals on my chest, but the recognitions from others," Zhu said.

"What I've been pursuing might seem look insignificant and ordinary. I want to keep working, to keep doing what I love, and to contribute to our army," he said.



Pursing dream

Zhu is 1.7 meters tall and weighs less than 60 kilograms. He was born in June 1982 in Heze, East China's Shandong province, joined in the army in Dec 2000 after graduation from middle school.

During his childhood, Zhu used to listen to his grandpa telling stories of the Red Army, and his name Hongjun is the Red Army in Chinese. He started to dream that one day he would join the army to contribute to the country.

After graduating from middle school, Zhu, who is not from a financially well-off family, joined the army. "I joined the army to ease the financial burden on my family, and to fulfill my dream."

Zhu submitted his first application to join the Party after the first three months military training. "After joining the army, I told myself that I would be a soldier who would listen to and follow the Party's orders," he said.

Three years later, his outstanding performance had finally made him a Party member.


Safety precautions must keep up with the rapid development and frequent updates of novel internet technology to safeguard cybersecurity for the public, said a senior official from China's top internet watchdog.

"In those areas, such as the internet of things, blockchain technology, artificial intelligence and the 5G network, relevant technological institutions and companies must plan ahead of time and effectively keep away security risks that keep changing," Yang Xiaowei, deputy director of the Cyberspace Administration of China, said at a summit on cybersecurity technology in Shanghai on Monday.

Dozens of university professors and business leaders from home and abroad in the area of cybersecurity participated in the summit and discussed various topics, including a safe and efficient internet of the future, cyberspace safety concepts, and new challenges regarding cyberspace security with the rise of burgeoning technologies.

Dong Yunhu, head of Shanghai's publicity department, said cyberspace has become a national security issue.

"Cyberspace managers must improve their capability of protecting the security of data and personal information to ensure an unbreakable, safe cyberspace," he said.

The summit was held amid the annual Cybersecurity Week, an activity aimed at raising awareness about knowledge and policies related to cybersecurity, which began in Shanghai on Saturday and will last through Sunday.

Organized by multiple authorities, including the Cyberspace Administration of China, the Ministry of Education and Bank of China, this is the third time the summit has been held in the country. The first two were held in Beijing and Wuhan, Hubei province, respectively.

Forums in the following days will feature several topics, including enhancing the comprehensive morality of internet users and establishing a cleaner cyberspace, big data security and personal information protection, as well as technical standards of cybersecurity.
Draft bases changes on new conditions and missions to add strength, vigor

The Communist Party of China is expected to amend its constitution at the upcoming 19th CPC National Congress next month by adding key theoretical viewpoints and strategic thoughts.

The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee deliberated and produced a draft amendment to the constitution at a meeting on Monday presided over by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee.

Appropriately amending the constitution at the National Congress based on new conditions and missions promotes the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics and Party building, according to a statement released after the meeting.

The statement said the amendments should include the key theories and strategic thoughts presented by a work report to be delivered at the National Congress.

The amended constitution should fully embody the latest Sinicization of Marxism, the new governance concepts and thoughts and strategies of the CPC Central Committee since the 18th CPC National Congress, as well as the fresh experiences in adhering to and strengthening Party leadership, and in strict Party governance, according to the statement. The amendment should make the Party more vigorous and stronger, and enable it to keep a close connection with the people, it said.

The draft amendment will be submitted to the seventh plenary meeting of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which will be held on Oct 11, a week ahead of the scheduled National Congress.

Theoretical amendments have a profound significance in leading the direction of the Party and society as a whole into the future, said Wu Hui, a professor at the Party School of the Central Committee of the CPC. "In a detailed way, the constitution should be amended to strengthen discipline inspections, Party building and governance," he said.

Original thoughts developed by the Party since the 18th CPC National Congress, including strict Party governance and the supply-side structural reform, have strategic significance to form a system of thoughts, said Liu Chun, vice-president of the graduate school at the Party school.

Monday's meeting also discussed the work report presented by the 18th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection to the 19th CPC National Congress and reviewed a report on the implementation of the eight-point frugality code in the past five years.

Zhou Jin and Xinhua contributed to this story.
China completed a high-level environmental inspection of 31 provincial regions on Friday, including the latest round, in which over 5,700 government officials were held accountable, the Ministry of Environmental Protection said on Monday.

The last inspection roundthe fourthbegan in mid-August and covered eight provincial-level regionsJilin, Zhejiang, Shandong, Hainan, Sichuan and Qinghai provinces as well as the Tibet and Xinjiang Uygur autonomous regions. Inspectors finished their field work on Friday, the ministry said in a statement on Monday.

As of Friday, the inspectors had discovered 39,585 pollution problems and alerted the provincial governments. Of those problems, 35,039, or 88 percent, were dealt with. Taking heavy hits were polluting companies and irresponsible government officials, the ministry's data show.

Over 32,000 companies were ordered to stop generating pollution and improve their equipment, 9,181 companies were fined a collective total of 466 million yuan ($71.2 million) and 364 people from the polluting businesses were detained, the ministry said.

In addition, 5,763 government officials were punished for poor performance in tackling pollution, it said, launching a large-scale "accountability storm" in the inspections.

The inspections fueled the need to resolve some severe pollution problems. For example, mining and herding activities were prohibited in the Lhalu wetland of the Tibet autonomous region soon after inspectors delivered their report to the region's government.

The strict pollution inspections of companies also helped restore competition to the business market, said Tian Ge, manager of Jilin Shenhua Chemical Co, Xinhua News Agency reported on Monday.

His plant has been paying higher costs to reduce emissions during production, but has lost price competitiveness compared with businesses that did not have such equipment expenses and continued to pollute.

"We protected the environment, but lost in the market. It's not fair," he said, adding that many companies that generated pollution were shut down in the inspection, bringing back healthy competitionand profits to Tian's plant.

With inspection work concluded, the inspectors will monitor the investigation of other pollution problems and make a summary about the inspection to the central government and affected provincial-level governments.

"The inspections have brought better results in reducing pollution and received more support from the public," Liu Changgen, deputy director of the inspection bureau, said in a news release on Sept 1 about the environmental inspection.

High-level inspections, which take one month to complete, will be conducted in the 31 provincial regions every two years under a central government plan.

After the overall inspection, Liu said the central inspection teams will launch another by year's end covering 10 cities and lasting 15 to 20 days. The cities will be selected from the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and neighboring provinces of Henan, Shandong and Shanxi, based on their air pollution control performance.

"It will encourage the governments to perform better in reducing smog during the winter," he said.
A delegation of nearly 50 people from the US state of Iowa started their 10-day visit to China on Sunday and a groundbreaking for a China-US Friendship Demonstration Farm, believed to be the first of its kind, is set for Saturday.

Terry Branstad, the new US ambassador to China, will attend the ceremony, according to a news release from the Iowa Sister States commission, a nonprofit organization founded in 1985 to manage Iowa's official relationships with foreign states and provinces. The organization was established when Branstad was governor.

The China-US Friendship Demonstration Farm, to be located in Luanping county, Hebei province, will include an educational agriculture site modeled after a farm near Maxwell, Iowa, owned by Rick and Martha Kimberley and their son Grant. The demonstration farm is a joint project of Iowa and Hebei. Its educational components will include visuals of modern agriculture technology such as machinery, and advances such as grain storage and drying, as well as test plots.

Rick Kimberley, president of Kimberley Farms Inc, told China Daily that the demonstration farm will occupy a total area of 1,214 hectares. "The first phase will be a recreation of my home and buildings," Kimberley said.

"When President Xi Jinping was at my home and farm (as vice-president, in 2012), he said that he wanted to use my farm as a model of modern agriculture to China. So they will recreate my home and buildings."

The demonstration farm will use the same modern equipment and technology that the Kimberleys use. There will be demonstration plots for seeds and demonstrations of the use of equipment.

"The farm will create an environment for learning and showcasing modern farming practices and techniques," Kimberley said. "There will also be a conference center."

After the groundbreaking, there also will be a Hebei-Iowa agriculture seminar and Branstad will host a reception, according to the news release.

In 1983, then-governor Branstad signed the Iowa-Hebei Sister State/Province agreement with then-Hebei governor Zhang Shuguang. The "relationship is one of Iowa's most famous and visible relationships since it was formally recognized by Chinese President Xi Jinping", according to a news release. In 1985, Xi, then a county leader in Hebei province, visited Iowa through the sister-state/province program.

In 2012, when Xi returned to Iowa as vice-president of China, it was his first time back to the state since 1985. During his visit, he met with several "old friends" from 1985, and made visits to new places such as the Kimberleys' farm. During that visit he declared that Chinese farms should be modeled after the Kimberley farm, according to the news release from Iowa Sister States commission.

Those attending the event include Kim Heidemann, Iowa Sister States executive director, and board members Luca Berrone, Grant Kimberley and Will Zhang, Rick Kimberley and representatives from companies and groups involved in China-US trade and relations, such as Cozen O'Connor, China-Iowa Group, Diamond V, TransOva, Sukup Manufacturing, Hy-Line International, Principal Financial, Syngenta, John Deere, Monsanto and DuPont Pioneer.
GUIYANG - Luo Dengping crawls up a steep cliff in remote Ziyun County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, to collect herbs growing in the cracks in the rocks.

Luo, 37, is a resident of Getuhe Village, which is well-known for its steep karst mountains. Large numbers of swallows live in caves on the cliffs, and their excrement makes good fertilizer for the villages crops.

"The herbs that grow in the cracks can be used for traditional Chinese medicine," Luo said. "So I come here every day, hoping to earn money."

Luo's story was recently shown in a BBC video that went viral online. The video showed her crawling up a dangerous cliff without any safety rope.

At the age of 15, Luo, began learning to climb from her father, to help collect fertilizer for the family's crops.

"We were really poor and lived in a thatched cottage," said Luo, who never attended school. "My sister was luckier, but she dropped out after grade three because my family was too poor to support her studies."

Luo said when she first started climbing, she felt scared and had to crawl very slowly.

"Climbing the cliff without ropes is a tradition in this area," Luo said. "Some people place coffins on the cliffside, and others climb to pick herbs."

Most of the climbers are men, but as there are no boys in her family, Luo had to learn the skill.

"I think men and women are equal, if men can do it, I can do it too," she said.

In her late teens Luo became a migrant worker at a construction site in the southern metropolis of Guangzhou. In 2000, she returned to the village, married a local and had two children. While her children grew up she worked in the fields and occasionally climbed the cliffs looking for herbs to earn some extra money for her family.

In 2015, the local government decided to develop the karst mountains into tourist sites.

"Tourists then started coming in, and the government wanted us to climb the cliffs to entertain them," Luo said.

Luo agreed immediately and joined a "spiderman" team with five other villagers. She was the only woman and the youngest climber.

She climbs the 108-meter cliff once or twice a day. Years of climbing have left her hands calloused.

"It's not so bad, because the tourist area is within walking distance, so I can take care of my children," Luo said. "They also provide lunch for us, which is good."

Luo works from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, with four days rest each month. Her average monthly salary is about 3,000 yuan (458 U.S. dollars) which includes a base salary and commission on the number of tickets sold to tourists each day.

Luo said she wants to make more money to help her husband, who supports the family by driving freight trucks.

"I want my children to continue going to school," she said.

China has set a target of building a moderately prosperous society by 2020, including the complete eradication of poverty. From 2013 to 2016, 55.64 million rural people were lifted out of poverty in China.
Chinese tenor Shi Yijie will play the role of Jia Baoyu. [Photo by Jiang Dong/China Daily]

The English opera adaptation of the Chinese classic novel Dream of the Red Chamber has kicked off its tour of three Chinese cities, Beijing, Changsha and Wuhan, with six performances between Sept 8 and 23.

After the performance on Sept 9, a special contribution award ceremony for China-US cultural exchange was held by the mayor of San Francisco, Edwin Lee, in Beijing.

At the ceremony, Lee recognized two significant contributors, Peter Liu, the founder and chairman of WI Harper Group, a cross-border venture capital firm, and He Chenguang, the vice-president of the China-Cuba Friendship Association, for bringing the opera Dream of the Red Chamber to China.

The Dream of the Red Chamber, written by Cao Xueqin during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), is considered one of China's greatest classical novels, and its latest rendition is set to thrill opera lovers in the country.

The San Francisco Opera held the world premiere of its operatic production based on the novel in September 2016.
SONG CHEN/CHINA DAILY

Editor's Note: During the past few decades, the social opinion on overseas education has changed. News reports about youths returning after studying abroad, which costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, but ending up with low-paying jobs have made people wonder whether it's still worth sending their children overseas for education. Two education experts share their views on the issue with China Daily's Wu Zheyu.

Unfair to label overseas diplomas 'worthless'

As a young teacher working in a Chinese college after earning a college degree in the United States, I have to say that it's neither fair nor respectful to label an overseas college degree "meaningless". Social attitude toward overseas returned students has changed from widespread appreciation to bias. This calls for employers to analyze different cases differently.

That more and more Chinese students have easier access to overseas education than before does not necessarily mean overseas degrees have become worthless. Take, for example, majors such as journalism, finance and engineering, are actually "imported goods". They did not exist in China, let alone the other majors in overseas universities that still have the best rankings around the world. So there's no ground for questioning the quality of education Chinese students receive abroad. Take the major of business journalism I teach at the University of International Business and Economics. This major in Arizona State University ranks 1st in the US, and I believe people in China have barely heard the name of this university.

Employers should not seek only candidates with Ivy League college degrees, but they should not be deceived by degrees from some mysterious universities overseas either. That is to say, they should not go to extremes.

It's good to see students becoming increasingly competitive thanks to their diversified academic backgrounds. Now it's time for employers to evolve, to have the ability to differentiate between good and bad, in order to formulate a basic cognitive system to evaluate the quality of candidates who have studied abroad, as they cannot be identified as key universities like China. This will allow employers to comprehensively evaluate the candidates' educational qualifications and personal abilities.

Qian Jingjing, director of the Center for International Business Journalism, University of International Business and Economics

Overseas returned talents still rare

News about youths returning after earning a college degree and working for a few years abroad landing a job in China for a monthly salary of only 7,000 yuan ($1,089), much less than his or her pay overseas, prompts some people to believe overseas college degrees have lost their value.

In the 1980s, the students who got government funding to study abroad were selected from hundreds of thousands of candidates. In the 1990s, the number of self-funded students increased, but most of them usually obtained their bachelor's degree from a top Chinese university such as Tsinghua University or Peking University and then proceeded overseas for higher studies. Still, only 20,000 to 30,000 Chinese students went overseas for studies, and they were good enough to find a job to their liking. In fact, to bring back such students, the government formulated many preferential policies.

Now anyone whose parents can afford to pay can get admitted to a college overseas. And in their blind race to get an overseas college degree, students even enroll in almost unknown or unrecognized colleges. However, of the about 544,500 Chinese students studying abroad in 2016an overwhelming 498,200 of them self-fundedonly 390,000 returned to China. And most of them were undergraduate or junior college students, with only 5 percent being PhD candidates. This shows talents with cutting-edge skills rarely return and are still precious "commodity".

According to a rough estimate, given the current situation of the job market, a person with three years' work experience will usually receive higher pay and better treatment than one holding a master's degree. So operational capability and work experience are the two key factors that really matter in the long run, while a college degree is just a key to open the door to your career.

Chen Zhiwen, editor-in-chief of China Education Online
Chinese travel agencies predict that Japan is likely to become one of the hottest destinations for Chinese tourists during the Golden Week. [Photo/Xinhua]

I was surprised recently to find how closely Chinese internet surfers follow what happens in Japan. A short Japanese TV program about a middle school aired early this month has touched many a Chinese citizen's nerve. The school's principal encouraged his students to speak to their classmate crush.

Some students texted words of affection to their peers rather than mouthing them aloud, as the principal said, thanks to social networking technology. The principal wanted his students to bare their soul and share their emotions. Several teens came forward hollering out their "love" in front of the whole school. One boy was delirious after finding the girl whom he "loves" has the same feeling for him; others were rejected and tearful.

The annual program is designed to help children speak about either their affection or anxieties.

Chinese netizensmany of them adultssaid the principal and those students who dared to open up their hearts moved them to tears. Puppy love is part of teen development. But teenage romance is something that teachers and parents do their best to prevent and nip in the bud in China.

Also, Chinese internet users followed an Aug 30 report on Ishikawa prefecture's Kahoku city, where women with children "proposed" imposing a special tax on single people. The news sparked heated discussions online in Japan. The city has been bombarded with phone calls and emails protesting against the idea, which they say violates human rights. The city authorities have denied there was such a motion, saying only one mother complained to a local official about the cost of raising children and suggested single people contribute more to the country.

Japanese netizens also pay attention to news about China. They were worried about Wei Qiujie, a 27-year-old Chinese primary school teacher, who went missing during a trip to Hokkaido in late July. They prayed for her soul to rest in peace after she was found dead by the sea in Japan's northernmost prefecture. Good things come in small packages, as a saying goes.

Reading these reports, I couldn't help asking whether the opinions of Chinese and Japanese citizens about each other are really that bad. A survey conducted by Pew Research Center last year showed that Chinese and Japanese viewed each other with disdain and harbored mostly negative stereotypes about one another. Just 11 percent of the Japanese respondents expressed a favorable view of Chinaover the past decade, the average favorability of China among Japanese citizens has been just 18 percent. And only 14 percent people in China voiced a favorable opinion of their East Asian neighbor, in line with the average of available data of the past decade.

It is hard to believe that a large number of Chinese tourists visit Japan despite a majority of Chinese people having a low opinion of the country. More than 4 million Chinese visited Japan in the first seven months of this year, up 6.7 percent year-on-year. And more than 48 percent of the arrivals in the April-June quarter were repeat visitors, highlighting Chinese tourists' keen interest in Japan.

After spending huge amounts of money on made-in-Japan productsa byword for high qualityfor many years, Chinese tourists have begun to enjoy Japan's omotenashiJapanese way of wholeheartedly entertaining guestsand are trying to understand what Japanese-ness is.

Japan is getting ready for an influx of Chinese visitors during China's weeklong National Day holiday, or the "Golden Week", which starts on Oct 1, as about 506,000 Chinese tourists visited Japan during last year's "Golden Week".

Former Japanese prime minister Yasuhiro Nakasone liked to talk about Japan's foreign relations in terms of "equations with many variables". And a recent Reuters report said Japanese wholesale prices rose at the fastest annual pace in nearly nine years in August as robust Chinese demand boosted commodity prices.

Like it or not, China and Japan are neighbors that are on each other's equation.

The author is China Daily Tokyo bureau chief.

caihong@chinadaily.com.cn
Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents join a rally outside the Legislative Council complex to show support for the NPC Standing Committee's interpretation of the Basic Law on Nov 13, 2016. [Roy Liu /China Daily]

The Chief Secretary of Hong Kong, Matthew Cheung Kinchung, reiterated on Saturday that any advocacy of separatism, including that undertaken on university campuses, is unacceptable and an abuse of freedom of speech.

That the SAR government steadfastly condemns such activities is readily understandable since they violate the Basic Law, challenge the country's sovereignty, and threaten the special administrative region's fundamental interests.

As proved over the past two decades, the principle of "one country, two systems" has been the foundation for the SAR's economic prosperity and social stability, but this innovative framework is being endangered by the incessant endeavors of Hong Kong separatists.

The intent of "one country, two systems" was not only to maintain the city's prosperity but also to safeguard the nation's sovereignty, territorial integrity and development interests. Advocacy of Hong Kong independence blatantly challenges the bottom line of such vital national interests. It simply will not be tolerated by the central government and the Chinese people, including the great majority of Hong Kong residents.

The attempt to defend the advocating of separatism under the guise of freedom of speech is nothing more than sophistry, and the SAR government is right to say there is no room for discussion on the issue and to endorse the statement jointly issued by the heads of 10 local universities on Friday condemning the raising of banners advocating "Hong Kong independence" on campuses as an abuse of free speech.

"All universities undersigned agree that we do not support Hong Kong independence, which contravenes the Basic Law," the statement said.

The subsequent claim by those advocating separatism that this somehow restricts academic freedom was simply more sophistry.

Asked whether the government had put pressure on the universities, Cheung confirmed they acted autonomously and stressed that the message from the university heads was both clear and correct.

And that message is indisputable, as advocacy of separatism in the SAR is both illegal and unconstitutional.
Photo taken on Sept 11, 2017 shows the United Nations Security Council voting on a resolution on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) at the UN headquarters in New York. UN Security Council on Monday imposed new sanctions on the DPRK over its latest nuclear test. [Photo/Xinhua]

Every time the Democratic People's Republic of Korea conducts a nuclear test or missile launch, it is followed by a chorus of condemnation and a package of UN sanctions. Then everything goes back to "normal", with Pyongyang and Washington continuing their brinkmanship and the rest of the world helplessly looking on.

To ensure a peaceful Korean Peninsula that vicious circle must come to an end.

The UN Security Council has issued another strongly worded condemnation following Pyongyang's missile launch on Friday. But such rhetoric never works with the DPRK, whose leadership is seeking an "equilibrium of real force with the US"that being to its mind nuclear deterrence.

So the question being asked now is: Will sanctions make a difference?

If sanctions failed to prevent Pyongyang from conducting what it claims was a hydrogen bomb test on September 3, and launching a ballistic missile on Friday, will the latest sanctions bring the leaders in Pyongyang to their senses?

Some have simply accepted they will not, and are either calling for military action or else saying it is time the rest of the world began to learn to co-exist with a nuclear-armed DPRK. But the latter requires the international community forsake its current commitment to denuclearization and accommodate a provocative Pyongyang as a legitimate nuclear power, which looks anything but realistic.

In its latest statement, the UN Security Council displayed the unanimous belief that Pyongyang's nuclear/missile stunts are a threat to regional and global security. Beijing, through its ambassador to the US, stated hours after the missile launch on Friday that China would not accept the DPRK as a legitimate nuclear power.

Considering the unaffordable collateral damage of any military action against the DPRK, as well as the impossibility of dialogue at the momentespecially since Republic of Korea President Moon Jae-in, who favored engaging Pyongyang, has found dialogue "impossible"the most feasible approach is to let sanctions do the trick.

With its Friday missile launch, Pyongyang wanted to give the impression that sanctions will not work. Some people have fallen for that and immediately echoed the suggestion, pointing to the failure of past sanctions to achieve their purpose.

But that past sanctions did not work does not mean they will not. It is too early to claim failure because the latest sanctions have hardly begun to take effect. Giving the sanctions time to bite is the best way to make Pyongyang reconsider.

Priority No 1, therefore, is for the international community to work in unison so that the UN sanctions are implemented in full and work as intended, while leaving the door open to talks.
A collection of popular emojis on instant messaging software QQ in China. [Photo/Tencent]

ON WEDNESDAY, some of China's social media deleted emojis representing a person smoking from their platforms, because there were concerns that it might mislead young people into linking being "cool" with smoking. Thepaper.cn comments:

By deleting the emojis, the companies said they hope to help curb an implied link between smoking and being cool. Beijing Tabacco Control Association praised the move and called on other domestic IT companies to delete similar emojis from their social network apps.

However, it remains debatable how much influence such moves will have. Frankly, requiring social media companies to delete such emojis is not one of the most pressing tasks to curb tobacco use.

In Singapore, where tobacco control is rather effective, the local authorities have taken many measures to prohibit smoking in public. For example, they have made clear detailed standards for fining those who illegally smoke in public places. They have even adjusted the number and the locations of public trash cans so that smokers won't have anywhere to drop their cigarette butts.

All these are good examples that China can learn from. More important, the government should take measures to break the interest chain of tobacco. As early as April 2015, the newly amended Advertisement Law forbid tobacco advertisements, but an official survey last year shows there were still many illegal tobacco advertisements online.

The tobacco control associations nationwide should pay more attention to solving these problems. An open tobacco advertisement does much more harm than an emoji.

Deleting these emojis is good, but there are many more pressing tasks to curb tobacco use, and we hope the tobacco control associations will pay more attention to them.
Visitors watch a robot play piano at the 2017 World Robot Conference in Beijing, Aug 24, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

When President Xi Jinping visited the Institute of Advanced Technology under University of Science and Technology of China in Heifei, Anhui province, on April 26, he was greeted by a human-like robot named "Jia Jia". "I am very happy to see you, dear President, I wish you happiness every day," said Jia Jia, who is known as "robot goddess" for her good looks. Surely, Jia jias interaction with Xi has sent a strong signal to the world that China has acquired the mantle of leadership in the global robotic industry.

During the term of the 18th CPC Central Committee, the government under the presidency of Xi is vigorously advancing to become a great leader in the technology transformation and robotics transformation. In the last three to five years, the way the Chinese robot industry has prospered is astounding. The government and domestic companies are working together to achieve critical technological progress.

China is now the worlds largest consumer of robots. Many Chinese robotic companies, including Foxconn Technology Group, Shanghai STEP Robotics Corporation, Efort Intelligent Equipment Co Ltd, Siasun Robot & Automation Co Ltd, Estun Automation Co Ltd, are actively developing robots with their own technological advantages. And China-made robots have also won international recognition.

Thanks to the governments concerted and unremitting efforts and incentives over the past three years, China is forging ahead with a great force in the field of robotic industry, known as "jewel in the crown of manufacturing". And this great force comes from the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020), the Made in China 2025 program, Robotics Industry Development Plan and Three-Year Guidance for Internet Plus Artificial Intelligence Plan (2016-2018).

The government attaches great importance to the robotics industry and Artificial Intelligence 2.0. Xi called in a speech to the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2014 for a "robot revolution'' in a nod to automation's vital role in raising productivity. Robots were first mentioned in the Government Work Report of 2014, in the context of China's aim to achieve "major breakthroughs in super computing, intelligent robots, super hybrid rice, and other key technologies".

China became the world's biggest market for industrial robots in 2013, surpassing Japan. In 2016, China manufactured 72,000 industrial robots, around a quarter of global output. According to a report released by the Chinese Institute of Electronics on August 23, 2017, it is estimated that more than 110,000 robots will be sold by China for industrial use in 2017. It is expected China's industrial robot market will reach $4.22 billion rs in 2017.

In the meantime, the value of China's service robot market will reach $1.32 billion this year, up 28 percent year-on-year, according to the report. Estimates by the International Federation of Robotics, suggest the installation of robots in China surged by 27 percent year-on-year in 2016, to 87,000 units. The figure is close to one-third of all global robot installations in that year. By 2019, the figure is expected to double to 160,000 units.

It is worth mentioning here that the 2017 World Robot Conference (WRC) ended on August 27, 2017, showcasing the great vitality of China's fast-emerging robotics industry. Surely, the prestigious international conference echoed China's national strategy of robotic and digitized manufacturing upgrades to catapult China to lead the world in artificial intelligence (AI) technology by 2025.

More than 300 artificial intelligent (AI) experts and representatives of over 150 Chinese and foreign robot enterprises gathered the five-day event to show off their latest cutting-edge achievements and products including industrial robots, special-purpose robots, service robots, artificial intelligence (AI), smart homes and more. From chatting with visitors, playing the piano and doing surgery, robots stole the hearts of the audience at the third edition of WRC.

On the other hand, the two-day fourth China Robot Summit, with the theme of "intelligence plus era and smart future", held from May 16 to 17 in Yuyao, East China's Zhejiang province, displayed a variety of artificial intelligence technologies and service robots. More than 1,500 experts attended the Fourth China Robot Summit to discuss a fully robotic future in manufacturing and industrial transformation and upgrading.

China launched the "Made in China 2025" strategy in 2015. The plan is to replenish China's manufacturing with high-end and low-energy technologies, highlighting the robotics industry. It's really encouraging that China very much wants to strengthen cooperation with other countries to improve research and speed up the industrialization of robot technology.

As Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli noted in his keynote speech at the 2017 Boao Forum for Asia, "China will unswervingly persevere in its opening-up. China's gate is always open to the outside world". He reaffirmed, the Chinese government will further optimize the investment environment for foreign businesses. All domestic and foreign companies should be treated equally in terms of qualification licenses, standard settings, and government procurement, as well as enjoying preferential policies of "Made in China 2025".

In recent years, China has accelerated efforts to integrate artificial intelligence technologies into robots as the country aims to build a smarter, automated society by 2025. It should be noted here that on July 20, 2017, China's State Council unveiled the "Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan", which outlines China's aims to lead the world in AI. The plan will give funds to AI-related projects to pursue a first-mover advantage to become the premier global AI innovation center, pushing the domestic AI level to a more international approach challenging US dominance.

China plans to expand its artificial intelligence products market to over $15 billion by 2018 by speeding up the manufacturing of products like robots, home appliances and mobile phones as part of efforts to develop new technologies to upgrade the structure and performance of the real economy. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Science and Technology established a 2 billion yuan ($294 million) special fund for intelligent robot research and development, according to China Securities Journal.

China is extremely well-placed in the field of the robotics industry and AI research and development. Chinese people have caught up with new technologies to improve their way of life but at the same time it should bear in mind that mass adaptation of robots may steal medium-skilled workers jobs or rapid robotization will take control of our humanity as legendary theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking said that AI "could spell the end of the human race". Or it may not happen. May be one day will come when it is impossible to imagine a life without AI technology. We must make machines our best partner, rather than letting them replace us. We should be cheerful rather than fearful about robotic machinery.



Rabi Sankar Bosu is secretary of New Horizon Radio Listeners' Club in West Bengal, India.
An industrial robot interacts with a participant of the Dalian Summer Davos Annual Meeting at the Dalian International Conference Center in Dalian, Northeast China's Liaoning province, June 27, 2017. [Photo by Zhu Xingxin/chinadaily.com.cn]

China has achieved some four decades of rapid economic growth. But one powerful source of growth has yet to be fully tapped: urbanization. Now, the potential of megacities as an engine of dynamism and increased prosperity is finally getting the high-level attention it deserves.

Over the last decade, China has been working to shift from a manufacturing-led growth model fueled by low-cost labor to an innovation-led, higher-value-added model underpinned by strong productivity gains. Urbanization will be critical to facilitate this shift, not least by enabling economies of scale.

Currently, though China is the world's most populous country and its second-largest economy, only half the population lives in urbanized areas, and less than 10% reside permanently in megacities. And the country's urbanization rate remains well below the global average.

Growth in China's megacities  metropolitan areas with a population exceeding ten million  has long been heavily constrained by rigid state administrative divisions and planning agencies. Indeed, in pursuing rapid industrialization, megacities have often been less successful than smaller cities  which have largely evaded such constraints  in accumulating productive capital, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), and demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit.

In the 1990s, the small city of Kunshan became China's leading center for manufacturing electronic products. By integrating themselves into global supply chains, small cities in Guangdong province  including Dongguan, Huizhou, Shunde, and Zhongshan  have played a critical role in establishing China as the "Factory of the World."

But while the success of smaller cities is to be celebrated, it is China's megacities where the greatest potential to fuel future progress in productivity  and thus GDP growth  is to be found. So far, China has just four "first-tier" cities (with populations exceeding 20 million): Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

Given the size of China's population and economy, that is not a lot. And, in fact, there is no reason to believe that these megacities have reached their capacity, in terms of population or contribution to economic growth. Moreover, China has many dynamic second-tier cities  such as Chengdu, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Wuhan, and Suzhou  that are capable of reaching first-tier status, if given the chance.

In order to maximize the potential of China's cities, the government will need to be much more adaptive and flexible, especially regarding its notoriously strict control of urban land-development ratios. In particular, China must abandon its land-quota system, which not only limits the amount of land cities can develop for future productivity growth, but also allocates a disproportionate share of land to factories. Otherwise, urbanization will continue pushing up already-high housing costs, but not efficiently enough to power sustained growth and development.

The good news is that local governments are already working with the central government to alleviate or even eliminate existing administrative constraints. In China, cities' administratively defined boundaries include both urban and rural jurisdictions, with the latter  called the "county"  engaged mainly in agriculture. For example, about half of Shanghai's administrative jurisdiction of 6,340 square kilometers (2,448 square miles) is rural.

Local governments are now introducing so-called county-district conversions, in order to expand urban districts into rural jurisdictions. Such efforts, which the central government broadly supports, will enable more housing construction and industrial and commercial expansion.

Another strategy for advancing China's transition toward a city-led growth model is to expand the role played by urban clusters that leverage the strength of first-tier cities to boost growth in less-developed areas. From an economic standpoint, the Yangtze and Pearl River Deltas  which encompass megacities like Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzhen  are undoubtedly the most important such urban agglomerations, set to generate the higher future productivity gains from economies of scale and complementarity.

Here, too, China's leadership has already caught on. This past March, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang announced a plan for the development of a city cluster in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, which covers nine cities, including Guangzhou and Shenzhen, as well as the special administration regions of Hong Kong and Macau.

From 2010 to 2016, the annual GDP of the Greater Bay Area soared from CN5.42 trillion ($82 billion) to CN9.35 trillion ($1.42 trillion), making it the world's third-largest urban economy, after Tokyo and New York. Yet the population of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area is growing fast, and its GDP per capita is less than half that of Tokyo, suggesting that its potential is nowhere near depleted.

Moreover, China's leaders seem to be eyeing a second greater bay area, centered on Hangzhou Bay, which, because it overlaps with the Yangtze River Delta, could go a long way toward integrating that already-prosperous region. Such a cluster could cover the coastal megacity of Shanghai, as well as about ten more important cities across the Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces. It would include world-class ports, such as the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan (the world's busiest in terms of cargo tonnage). And it would cover two of China's 11 existing free-trade zones. The result would be a bay area on the scale of San Francisco and Tokyo.

The pace of China's economic growth over the last four decades has been unprecedented. But China has yet to complete its rise to rich-country status. As it upgrades its economy to become more knowledge-based and technology-driven, it is again leveraging its strengths. There is no better example of this than the ongoing effort to tap the potential of megacities.

Zhang Jun is Professor of Economics and Director of the China Center for Economic Studies at Fudan University, Shanghai.

The article was first published on chinausfocus.com.

Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2017.

Zhang Jun is a professor at Fudan University.
China's Fenglei aerobatic team performs at the opening ceremony of the 4th China International Helicopter Expo in Tianjin, north China, on Sept. 14, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

Taking the theme of "innovative integration, coordinated development," the 4th China Helicopter Expo ended on September 17, 2017, showcasing the great ambition of China's fast-emerging civil aviation industry. Debuted in 2011, the prestigious four-day exposition is the only international helicopter expo in China. It is now the second largest expo in the world and the largest in Asia. Surely, the 4th China Helicopter Expo has convinced the world that China can now draw an "incredible, gorgeous picture for the future of China's aviation industry."

The biennial expo which was co-hosted by the Tianjin Municipal People's Government, Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), and China PLA Ground Force, ran from September 14 to 17 in Tianjin Municipality. It offered a summit and air show, and was focused on domestic and overseas advanced helicopters, engines, airborne equipment, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground equipment, simulators and supporting services.

This year's edition of Tianjin Helicopter Expo saw a big increase in foreign and Chinese exhibitors. China Daily reported that 403 companies from 22 countries and regions attended this year's expo, which is 10 percent more than last year. Ninety-eight helicopters and 14 simulation models, 15 plane models, 8 engines, 9 special vehicles and 4 intelligent robots were on display at the expo, including over 20 helicopters for aerobatic shows. Twenty-eight pilots, seven Z-10 helicopters, three Z-19 helicopters, and one Z-8B helicopter from the PLA Ground Force staged static displays and air shows and demonstrated support tasks.

American and European helicopter giants also showed-off their latest high-tech flying contraptions at the Expo, including Sikorsky and Bell Helicopter Textron from the United States, Eurocopter from France and Agusta Westland from Italy. Chinese and Russian helicopters charmed aviation fans.

China's first unmanned combat helicopter with the sophistication of Chinese drone technology, the AV500W made its debut at the expo. The unmanned reconnaissance vehicle was one of the stars of the show. The 7.2-meter-long aircraft was developed and produced at the Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC) Helicopter Research and Development Institute in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province. It has a maximum take-off weight of 450 kilograms, a maximum speed of 170 kilometers per hour and a flight ceiling of 4,000 meters. It can remain in the air for four hours. "It will be useful in border patrols, counterterrorism operations and low-intensity conflicts," said Jiang Taiyu, one of the chief designers of AV500W.

Helicopters from the People's Liberation Army Ground Force and from AVIC conducted flight demonstrations at the opening ceremony on September 14. A pair of Chinese military helicopters shocked the expo-goers by performing an in-air ballet-like stunt as they circled around each other nose to nose at the expo. It is the second time the Fenglei aerobatic team of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Aviation had showcased the Z-19 light duty reconnaissance chopper at the bi-yearly event. It should be noted here that the Z-19 has been serving in the PLA Air Force and the aviation wing of the PLA Ground Force since 2011. Other military helicopters including the Z-10 or Fierce Thunderbolt also performed during the show.

Civil helicopters including the AC311, AC312, AC313 and the new-generation intermediate-class AC352 also performed at the expo. The latter, China's first 7.5-metric-ton class helicopter, was shown to the public for the second time after its maiden flight on December 20, 2016. The twin-engine helicopter capable of carrying 16 passengers showcased China's capacity to develop the world's most advanced mid-sized civilian helicopter.

Z-11WB, a light-duty attack helicopter, developed and made by AVIC Changhe Aircraft Industry in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, made its public debut on September 15 at the four-day Expo. The Z-11WB is based on the AC311 civilian craft and can conduct reconnaissance and ground assault operations. Z-11WB Chief Designer Wei Songlin said "the fully digital design and highly integrated avionics system make Z-11WB more intelligent. It can perform a variety of tasks, including battle field reconnaissance, patrol, escorts, precision attack to the ground and fire support."

According to CCTV, the last show on September 15 was presented by the Fenglei aerobatic team. Four Z-10 attack helicopters climbed together and, when reaching the peak, the formation was scattered to four different directions, just like a flower in full bloom. The excellent aerial stunts won loud cheers from spectators.

On September 16, China's first heavy-lift helicopter, AC313, astonished over ten thousand spectators with an excellent aerial fire-extinguishing show. With a long tube, the 13-ton helicopter displayed its capability for pouring water while airborne. According to AVIC, the helicopter will have a maximum takeoff weight of 38.2 metric tons and a maximum cruising speed of 300 kilometers per hour. It will be capable of flying at altitudes up to 5,700 meters and have a range of 630 km. It can carry four tons inside the cabin or lift five tons outside the body.

China's helicopter industry has been on a steady rise over the last decade. The domestic industry now boasts aircraft classes from one to 13 tons. The market value of China's helicopter industry is expected to reach 1 trillion yuan ($147.2 billion). China's helicopter giant Avicopter has mastered more than 50 models in 12 series of helicopters, with an annual production capacity of more than 300 helicopters.

China is the world's second largest and one of the world's fastest growing civil aviation markets. China will become the largest civil market and an important partner in industrial cooperation of the world's largest civil helicopter maker, Airbus Helicopters, which foresees a potential demand for 1,000 helicopters over the next decade in China.

China's demand for helicopters with multiple functions such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, firefighting, and tourism is soaring. Industry experts predict that the number of helicopters in China will grow by over 30 percent annually over the next decade. It is expected that China will have the capability of mass production of more advanced helicopters for both military and civilian use by the end of the 13th Five-year Plan (2016-2020).

China's helicopter industry is gearing up to become a global power. China is set to boost the development of the general aviation industry, with a focus on civil helicopters. It is hoped that China's fast-paced military helicopter industry will surely boost the development of more civilian helicopters to meet commercial demand.

Rabi Sankar Bosu is Secretary of New Horizon Radio Listeners' Club, based in West Bengal, India.
Gary Locke, former US ambassador to China

As a two-term governor of the US state of Washington from 1997 to 2005 and United States secretary of commerce from 2009 to 2011, Gary Locke fostered economic relations between his state and China. Then, as US ambassador to China from 2011 to 2014, Locke worked to open markets for US-made goods and services.

Since leaving public office, Locke has remained steadfastly committed to facilitating cross-Pacific business and trade. As legal counsel for the Seattle-based international law firm Davis Wright Tremaine, Locke currently consults with clients on issues regarding international trade, regulatory issues and investment policies.

The Q&A below reflects some of Locke's thoughts on China's recent development, and on the coming leadership meeting that will steer the country into the future.

What do you feel has been China's biggest achievement over the past five years? What's the most notable change you've observed?

The growing prosperity of the Chinese people and the growing number of Chinese who are middle class. China now perhaps is the world's most modern civilization and yet the oldest, the transformation of China has just been unbelievable.

What three words would you use to describe China today?

I would say modern, ancient and energetic. China is on the move.

What's the biggest challenge China faces, and how do you feel the country can go about overcoming it?

The biggest challenge is still closing the gap between the poor who live in the countryside and the growing middle class of the cities, ensuring that there is economic prosperity for its entire people. Another big challenge is providing care for the growing number of elderly in China. China is already working on moving more people from the countryside to urban areas. It has been done very carefully. I think it is important for China to open its markets, allowing foreign companies to invest in the country and to create jobs for the Chinese people. There are many companies in the West and the United States who have great experience and expertise in providing medical care and physical care for the elderly, from nursing homes to assisted living to retirement homes.

What are your expectations for the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China? What are the key issues you care about most?

A lot of people are wondering what will happen in terms of who will be on the Standing Committee and what economic policies the congress will establishwhether the reform effort will continue and what will be the areas of emphasis, as well as the pace or speed of reform.

What is your impression of President Xi Jinping?

President Xi Jinping has done an excellent job as president. He has great presence and visibility around the world. The Belt and Road Initiative is receiving positive reviews around the world, especially in those undeveloped countries that will benefit. He is doing very well in talking about the needs of global cooperation and avoiding protectionism. He has done much to help bring stability and prosperity to the people of China.

How do you view China's role in today's world? Do you believe that some of China's experiences or practices could be used to solve pressing global problems? If so, what are they?

China is a very important country. All the different issues confronting the worldfrom climate change to fighting diseases, fighting terrorism, to ensuring peace and stabilityrequire the active role of China.

What do you think China will be like in five years' time? How do you view China's longer-term future?

China will continue to grow economically and prosper and it will continue to modernize. It is moving away from low-cost, low-wage manufacturing of goods to be exported around the world, to an economy that is more innovation and technology based.

What's the most memorable experience or moment you've had in China, or related to China?

Two moments: The first is taking our children and family to travel throughout China, to discover the China of their ancestors by visiting places outside the cities of Beijing and Shanghai. That was a great experience for the children and family that we will never forget. The second one was actually visiting the family village to see where my father, my grandfather and ancestors were born.

What's your expectation for the US-China relationship in the next five years?

This is a very delicate and sensitive time for the US-China relationship. Hopefully president Trump will follow the policies of past presidents, Democrats and Republicans, since Nixon breathed life into the US-China relationship. There are issues. There are areas of differences. But common interests outweigh the areas of disagreement. The American people and Chinese people have benefited from the growing economic, political and cultural ties between our two countries. The world will benefit from a strong US-China relationship.
John Naisbitt and his wife Doris Naisbitt. [Photo/Agencies]

"No country in the world has made economic progress in such a short time. No country in the world has returned to be a global player in such a short time," said famed American futurist author of Mega-Trends John Naisbitt in a TED talk held in the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art at 798 Art Zone in Beijing on Sept 16.

The 88-year-old Naisbitt finished the whole speech accompanied by his wife, Doris Naisbitt, a long-time observer of global social, economic and political trends. They knew and fell in love with each other during the writing of Mega-Trends. As Doris said, "Asia and China brought us together."

John Naisbitt paid his first visit to China in 1967 when he served in the White House under Kennedy and Johnson.

"At that time, the difference between Washington and Beijing could not have been greater," he recalled.

Since then, John came to China on a regular basis and felt fascinated to see the changes. "I could not have imagined the China of today," he said.

Speaking on China's advancements in the past five years, John Naisbitt mentioned China's leading role in quantum science, quantum computing and the first fully Chinese aircraft, the C919. But China is not only leapfrogging its innovation processes, he said. China has also created new alliances and trade zones like the Belt and Road Initiative, which has the potential to reinvent globalization and create a more balanced growth model.

Asked for what made China's achievements of the past five years possible, Doris Naisbitt replied, "China has developed a new model of governing, and that has helped the country make great achievements in the past 30 years."

"The advantage of the Chinese system lies in the ability of the government, of the leadership, to allow long-term plans which are not interrupted by election-driven thinking," she explained. "Communication between leaders and common people and the use of both top-down and bottom-up approaches to address social problems in China has helped Chinese leaders to unify the nation and focus on development."

John supported his wife's opinion and gave credit for China's transformation to the governmental frame in which people could then contribute their share, both for their own benefit and for the progress of China.

Besides the congruence between the goals of the government and the goals of the people, the couple discussed two more reasons behind China's success.

China has high correlation between how the government sees itself and how it is seen by its people. When asked, "Overall, are you satisfied or dissatisfied with the way things are going in our country today," in the last poll in 2010, 87 percent of those in China answered "satisfied", compared with 36 percent in the US.

The other reason is how the global community sees China and how China sees itself. In a Pew Research poll conducted in 2014, 33 countries have accepted the rise of China.

As a leading futurist observing China for about half a century, John Naisbitt predicts China's prosperity is far from over, and a great future lies ahead.

The Naisbitts believe in the next decade China will not only change the global economy, but challenge Western democracy with its own model.
Tourists and monks attend a ceremony of gratitude at the Grand Hall of the Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai on Sunday. The hall was moved 31 meters north and raised 1 meter.[Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

Work to move the Grand Hall of Shanghai's Jade Buddha Temple 31 meters north and raise it 1 meter from the place it has stood for almost century was completed on Sunday.

The temple was first built in 1882 on the outskirts of Shanghai. It is named for the two jade Buddha statues it houses. Destroyed by fire, it was reconstructed in 1918 at its current downtown location.

Abbots of the temple decided to relocate the saffron-painted Grand Hall three years ago because of safety concerns and to protect the wooden structure. The temple welcomes about 2 million visitors a year, and daily visitors on occasions such as Chinese New Year Eve can top 100,000.

A special ceremony attended by monks, abbots and thousands of Buddhist faithful was held on Sunday morning to celebrate the successful relocation of the hall after two weeks of work.

The 2,000-metric-ton structure was moved together with three clay Buddha sculptures and other relics it contained.

"The challenge was like walking and carrying a tray of tofu to a destination," said Lan Wuji, founder of Evolution Shift, the company behind the project, which also handled the relocation of Shanghai Music Hall in 2003.
[Photo/Xinhua]

Egypt is eager to tap into the Chinese market to revive its ailing tourism industry, Governor of Egypt's Luxor Governorate Mohamed Badr told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Badr noted that the number of Chinese tourists has already notably increased after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Egypt in early 2016.

The Chinese president toured Luxor during his visit to Egypt, and the reports of this visit by major Chinese media outlets helped attract more Chinese tourists to visit Luxor, the governor said.

Badr said the inflow of Chinese tourists has somehow revived the tourism business in Luxor, which is a favorite attraction for tourists after the Pyramids.

Tourism in Egypt, a major source of its national income and foreign currency reserve, was dealt a further blow by the Russian airplane crash in North Sinai in October, 2015 after which several countries, including Britain and Russia, suspended their flights to Egypt.

Ths aggravated the recession in the country's already ailing tourism sector due to political instability.

Even before the Russian plane crash, Egypt suffered a sharp decline in tourists due to three years of political turmoil, including two mass uprisings that toppled two presidents, forcing several countries to ban their citizens from traveling to Egypt for safety reasons.

Luxor, once an ancient Egyptian capital, suffered similarly as other Egyptian tourist cities.

Amid the dire conditions, Egypt now pins big hope on China, a growing tourist market, to revive its tourism sector.

"We are focusing more on the Chinese market. I have given orders to add Chinese language to all direction signs on roads and tourist sites across Luxor," Badr said.

The governor said he has a general impression that the Chinese tourists, who are very well educated, come to Luxor because they want to learn more about the history of ancient Egypt.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is likely to play a larger role in the future as tourism has become the world's biggest industry with an estimated 10 percent contribution to the global gross domestic product last year.

The latest UNWTO data show a continued growth in global tourism. In January-June, international tourists increased to 598 million, making it the strongest half-year rise since 2010.

Taleb Rifai, secretary general of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), addresses the opening ceremony of the 22nd General Assembly of the UNWTO, in Chengdu, capital of Southwest China's Sichuan province, Sept 13, 2017.[Photo/Xinhua]

A sustainable tourism for development and growth is expected of the sector amid global economic sluggishness. Its role in promoting understanding between countries as well as people-to-people and cultural exchanges is meanwhile highlighted especially in the face of terrorist threats in many parts of the world.

As the 22nd session of the UNWTO General Assembly held on Sept 13-16 in Chengdu, China came under the framework of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai said he is very proud of the relevance.

"I feel very proud to have contributed to expanding the capacity of travel and tourism to the progress of the SDGs (UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals) that guide our common action to 2030. This General Assembly is a unique opportunity to continue advancing together," he said.

With a focus on sustainable development and tourism, the biennial UNWTO gathering this year has highlighted the importance of building partnerships for development, taking tourism cooperation concerning the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as an example.

Discussions related to the China-proposed initiative during a high-level session following the opening ceremony on Wednesday covered such travel facilitation details as visa policy and insurance in future cooperation.

Li Jinzao, head of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), told reporters the discussions were fruitful and successful, while Rifai described them as "conducive."

"China is an inspiration to others in terms of its supportive tourism policies and in placing tourism at the center of its poverty alleviation and national development strategies," Rifai said.

More than 1,300 delegates including tourism ministers from over 130 countries attended the UNWTO meeting in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province and an economic center in Western China.
Visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela on Saturday in Panama City.[Photo/Xinhua]

Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela told visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday in Panama City that he is glad to be able to visit China this year.

Wang relayed President Xi Jinping's greetings to the president and said China is ready to make good preparations for the visit. He spoke of the hope that both countries would take the visit as an opportunity to introduce a new era of mutually beneficial cooperation and common prosperity.

Varela said he has been motivated by the rapid development of bilateral ties.

Wang commented that bilateral exchanges in various fields have surged in that time and the potential for cooperation has been fully unleashed.

Facts have proved that the diplomatic relations between China and Panama serve the fundamental, long-term interests of Panama and its people and were a correct strategic choice, Wang said.

Varela said Panama warmly responds to and actively supports the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by Xi.

Panama is willing to fully use its unique geographical location, participate in building the Maritime Silk Road and work together with China to contribute to global connectivity, he added.

Panama will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, abide by its commitment to the Taiwan question made when its diplomatic relations with China were forged, and will in no way violate the one-China principle or damage mutual political trust, he said.

Francisco Carlo Escobar, the Panamanian ambassador to China, said in a recent interview with Xinhua that Panama will discuss with China the construction of several important Panamanian projects including the expansion of Tocumen International Airport and ports in Colon province.
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson speaks during a press conference in Washington, US June 21, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

WASHINGTON - US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday that the United States was considering whether or not to close down the US embassy in Cuba after US diplomats fell ill.

"We have it under evaluation and it's a very serious issue with respect to the harm some individuals have suffered," said Tillerson in an interview with CBS.

"We've brought some of those people home. It's under review," he added.

The US State Department revealed last month that at least 16 Americans working at the US embassy in Havana, Cuba, suffered physical symptoms caused by some "incidents."

The US authorities later confirmed that at least 21 Americans suffered physical symptoms.

No details of the injuries have been released, but media reports said the affected Americans suffered a severe hearing loss and at least one victim suffered some "brain damage."

The United States expelled two Cuban diplomats in late May after some US Embassy personnel in Havana reported that some "incidents" caused "a variety of physical symptoms" in them.

Cuba said that it was investigating allegations by the United States that unspecified "incidents" caused physical symptoms in Americans serving at the US Embassy in Havana, after two Washington-based Cuban diplomats were expelled.

"Cuba has never, nor would it ever, allow that the Cuban territory be used for any action against accredited diplomatic agents or their families," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The United States and Cuba officially resumed a diplomatic relationship in July 2015, more than five decades after they severed it.
TOKYO - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is considering calling a snap election for as early as next month to take advantage of his improved approval ratings and disarray in the main opposition party, government and ruling party sources said on Sunday.

Abe's ratings have recovered to 50 percent in some polls.

Abe told executives of his Liberal Democratic Party and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito party, that he might dissolve parliament's lower house for a snap poll after the legislature convenes for an extra session from Sept 28, the sources said.

Top LDP and Komeito officials will meet on Monday to discuss preparations, they added.

"Until now, it appeared the election would be next autumn, but ... we must always be ready for battle," domestic media quoted Komeito party chief Natsuo Yamaguchi as telling reporters on Saturday during a visit to Russia.

One option is to hold a snap election on Oct 22, when three by-elections are scheduled, the sources said. Other possibilities are later in October or after an expected visit by US President Donald Trump in early November.

Abe will probably make a decision after returning from a Sept 18-22 trip to the United States, the sources said.

Reuters
ERBIL, Iraq - The parliament of the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan on Friday approved the independence referendum to be held on Sept 25.

All the 65 lawmakers attending the session of the 111-seat regional parliament voted in favor of holding the referendum on the independence of the Kurdish region and the disputed areas.

The parliament also decided to invite relevant parties, including Kurdistan's Independent High Elections and Referendum Commission, to conduct the referendum.

According to Tariq Jowahar, parliament media advisor, the session was chaired by the deputy speaker, as Speaker Yousif Mohammed Sadiq did not attend the session since his Gorran Movement is boycotting the session along with the Kurdistan Islamic Group.

Kaka Bashar, a Kurdish lawmaker from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), said he regretted that some of the lawmakers boycotted the parliament session, particularly the Gorran Movement, and hoped they will take part in the coming session.

Bahar Mahmoud, head of Gorran's parliamentary bloc, said the parliamentary session is "illegal."

"The session is illegal and a violation to the internal parliament law, as the session must be approved by the parliament's presidency which comprises the speaker and his deputy, in addition to the secretary of the parliament," she told Xinhua.

Mahmoud also revealed that Sadiq was prevented from entering the regional capital city of Erbil.

"This session was held according to the wishes of the two main parties and not according to the desire of parliament," she said, referring to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) headed by the regional President Masoud Barzani, and the PUK with Iraqi President Fuad Masoum as one of its leading figures.

Horman Hama Sharif, a spokesman for the Kurdistan Islamic Group, echoed Mahmoud's opinion in a statement.

"We do not participate in this session because we consider it illegal, because the legitimate speaker is not aware of the session, as well as the parliament secretary, and this is an exploitation of the parliament as an institution for the parties and personal purposes," he said.

"We believe that the session will not solve our political and economic problems, but it could be the reason for further crises," Sharif concluded.

Fala Farid, head of the parliamentary legal committee, maintained that the parliamentary session is legal.

"The session is legal and was attended by the majority of the lawmakers, who expressed their opinions in supporting the referendum," he told Xinhua.

In addition to the Gorran Movement, which has 24 lawmakers out of the 111-seat parliament, and the Kurdistan Islamic Group with six seats, the Turkoman Front and the Rafidain bloc also boycotted the session.

Earlier in the day, the parliament reconvened for the first time after two years of suspension and discussed the independence referendum of the region.

Barzani earlier vowed to go ahead with the independence referendum, ignoring calls to postpone the controversial move.

"So far, we haven't seen an alternative that can take the place of the referendum. Do not listen to anyone, we are going to a referendum," Barzani said during a campaign for the Kurdish referendum in Duhok Province.

On June 7, Barzani announced his intention to hold a referendum on the independence of the Kurdish region from Iraq on Sept. 25.

The referendum has been opposed by Baghdad because it would threaten the integrity of Iraq and would distract the ongoing fight against Islamic State militants by Iraqi forces.

The neighboring countries of Turkey, Iran and Syria also feel that the move would threaten their territorial integrity, as large numbers of Kurdish population live in those countries.
The file photo shows vote Leave campaign leader Boris Johnson arrives to speak at the group's headquarters in London, Britain June 24, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said Saturday people writing off Britain as it heads towards Brexit are making a grievous error.

In a commentary published in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson launches an attack on critics.

"They are in grievous error, all those who write off this country, who think we don't have it in us, who think that we lack the nerve and the confidence to tackle the task ahead," said the politician.

"There are some people woefully underestimating this country, thinking. They Brexit isn't going to happen, 'who think we are going to bottle it'," he added.

He predicted Britain will succeed in its new national enterprise, adding: "and will succeed mightily".

Johnson said Brexit is Britain's chance to catch the wave of new technology, and to put the country in the lead as a "tech powerhouse" as one of four big tech investment areas of the world.

"In 10 years', 20 years' time, when we consider the arc of history comprised by our 45 years of EU membership, we will have a better and fairer comprehension of these events, why the British people wanted to join and why, eventually and sometimes regretfully, they wanted to leave (the EU)."

Johnson said if Britain itself had been asked to design the EU on a blank sheet of paper, there would be nothing like the body that exists today.

"This country still has chronic problems, and at least some of them have been exacerbated by the rigidities of EU membership."

Looking to the future, Johnson said Britain would not expect to pay for access to EU markets any more than the EU would expect to pay for access to British markets.

"Once we have settled our accounts, we will take back control of roughly 350 million pounds (475 million U.S. dollars)per week. It would be a fine thing, as many of us have pointed out, if a lot of that money went on the NHS, provided we use that cash injection to modernise and make the most of new technology."

Johnson's commentary comes just days before British Prime Minister Theresa May visits Florence where she will set out how Britain wants a special partnership with the EU after Brexit.
A delegation of nearly 50 people from Iowa embarked on a 10-day visit to China on Sunday and a ground-breaking ceremony for a China-US Friendship Demonstration Farm, believed to be the first of its kind, is on the agenda, China Daily learned Sunday morning.

Terry Branstad, the US' new ambassador to China, will attend the ceremony, according to a news release from the Iowa Sister States commission, a non-profit organization founded in 1985 to manage Iowa's official relationships with foreign states and provinces. The organization was established when Branstad was governor.

The China-US Friendship Demonstration farm, to be located in Luanping county, Hebei province in northern China, will include an educational agriculture site modeled after a farm near Maxwell, Iowa, owned by Rick and Martha Kimberley and their son Grant. The educational components of the project will include visuals of modern agriculture technology such as machinery, and advances such as grain storage and drying, as well as test plots.

Then Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping (L) talks with farmer Rick Kimberley as they sit in the cab of a tractor in Des Moines, Iowa, Feb 16, 2012 file photo. [Photo/Xinhua]

Rick Kimberley, president of Kimberley Farms Inc, told China Daily that the demonstration farm will occupy a total area of 3,000 acres and will open on Sept 23. "The first phase will be a recreation of my home and building," Kimberley said.

"When President Xi was at my home and farm (in 2012), he said that he wanted to use my farm as a model of modern agriculture to China. So they will recreate my home and buildings."

The demonstration farm will use the same modern equipment and technology that the Kimberleys use. There will be demonstration plots for seeds and demonstrations of the use of equipment.

"The farm will create an environment for learning and showcasing modern farming practices and techniques," Kimberley said. "There will also be a conference center."

Besides executive director Kim Heidemann and board members Luca Berrone, Grant Kimberley and Will Zhang, the delegation also includes Rick Kimberley and representatives from Cozen O'Connor, China-Iowa Group, Diamond V, TransOva and Sukup Manufacturing.

Representatives from other organizations will join the delegation in China, including Hy-Line International, the Des Moines Register, Principal Financial Group, Syngenta, John Deere, Monsanto, DuPont Pioneer and BlueShirt Group.

Following the ground-breaking ceremony, attendees will participate in a Hebei-Iowa agriculture seminar. In addition to attending the ceremony, Ambassador Branstad will also host a reception, according to the news release.

In 1983, then governor Branstad signed the Iowa-Hebei Sister State/Province agreement with then Hebei governor Zhang Shuguang. The "relationship is one of Iowa's most famous and visible relationships since it was formally recognized by Chinese President Xi Jinping", according to a news release. In 1985, Xi Jinping, then a county leader in Hebei province, visited Iowa through the sister-state/province program.

In 2012, Xi Jinping returned to Iowa as vice-president of China. It was his first time back to the state since 1985. During his visit, he met with several "old friends" from 1985, along with visits to new places such as the Kimberleys' farm. During that visit he declared that Chinese farms should be modeled after the Kimberley farm, according to the news release from Iowa Sister States commission.

yuanzhang@chinadailyusa.com
A scene from Little Soldier Zhang Ga, a play that will be performed at the China Changing festival. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Events include works by some of the most innovative artists in China

Some of the best British-Chinese and South East Asian artists will take center stage at the second China Changing Festival at London's Southbank Centre.

The international festival was launched in December 2016 and incorporates works by some of the most innovative artists practicing in China as well as leading and emerging UK-based Chinese and South East Asian artists.

Among the highlights will be a conversation with television host, publisher and media mogul Hung Huang. Often referred to as China's Oprah Winfrey, she will discuss her life, work and the role of the media in contemporary China.

The festival also features dance, concerts, theatre, music, audio visual performances and panel discussions exploring modern Chinese art, culture and identity.

Rachel Harris, creative producer of festival development at Southbank Centre said the"action-packed program'' was a celebration of "artistic excellence'' and Chinese and UK partnerships.

"China is a multifaceted country, experiencing an impressive expansion of cultural infrastructure in the context of its rich, ancient artistic heritage,'' Harris said. "With this festival, we hope to explore and give an insight into the breadth of China's creativity and creative influence."

There will also be family fun with calligraphy workshops and puppetry and dance performances throughout the day. One such performance is the story of Little Soldier Zhang Ga, told using puppetry and physical theatre.

The China Changing Festival talks program will bring the stories and experiences of women to the fore.

Leading Chinese writers Guo Xiaolu and Zhang Lijia will read and hold discussions about their most recent books and shine a light on the experience of generations of women in modern China.

SINK, based on a true story of Chinese writer Lao She, comes to London from a successful Edinburgh Fringe run and offers a reflection on the shifting role of culture in China.

There is also an opportunity to take part in the Chinese square-dancing craze, guangchangwu.

In China, the dance is performed in a public square and it's particularly popular among retired women, who've earned the nickname "dancing aunties".

The China Changing Festival takes place on Oct7.
China tells Japan not to defame UNESCO heritage application regarding comfort women

Xinhua | Updated: 2017-09-18 20:30

BEIJING -- Japan should act correctly towards an application for records of comfort women to be listed as UNESCO heritage, instead of threatening not to pay its UNESCO membership fees, a Chinese spokesperson said Monday.



If the submitted documents are approved for the UNESCO Memory of the World Register next month, domestic pressure for Japan to cancel payment of its UNESCO membership fees will grow, according to Japanese media.



The application for UNESCO heritage status submitted by more than 10 groups from China, the Republic of Korea and other countries and regions will "allow the world to fully understand the brutality of the war of aggression, remember history, cherish peace and defend human dignity," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a regular news briefing.



The move serves the purposes of the UNESCO, he said.



"The members of international organizations are obliged to pay their membership fees on time and in full. China demands Japan reflect on its history of aggression, and take a correct attitude towards and do not smear or meddle with the application," Lu said.



Forceful recruitment of comfort women, or sex slaves, was a grave crime committed by the Japanese militarism during WWII. There is solid evidence and no room for denying that, Lu said.



He said that Japan should handle the issue properly and in a responsible way to gain trust from its Asian neighbors and the international community.
Second suspect arrested after London subway blast named as Yahyah Farroukh: TV report

Xinhua | Updated: 2017-09-18 20:31

LONDON -- The 21-year-old man arrested on Saturday by police investigating the terrorist attack at Parsons Green subway station in west London has been named as Yahyah Farroukh, local television report said early Monday.



Farroukh is listed as living at an address in Stanwell, Surrey, some 26 kilometers from central London, which was searched by police officers on Sunday, according to the report.



His first pictures were published by the British media since he was arrested at a Fried chicken shop in Hounslow on Saturday night.



Farroukh is believed to be from the Syrian capital of Damascus originally and has lived in Britain for at least four years.



He previously stayed at the Sunbury house of Ronald Jones, 88, and his wife, Penelope, 71, who have been fostering at least 268 children over the past four decades, including refugees from Eritrea, Iraq, Somalia and Syria, according to reports.



Farroukh's arrest came after a 18-year-old chief suspect was detained at Dover ferry port on Saturday morning after an explosion on a packed rush-hour carriage at Parsons Green subway station on Friday morning injured some 30 people.



Both men remain in custody under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which allows police to detain suspects without charge beyond the four days allowed for suspects connected to other crimes.



British Home Secretary Amber Rudd claimed the two arrests as "good progress" in the inquiry of the London tube blast.



The terrorist attack was caused by an improvised explosive device, which had a timer, but failed to fully detonate.



Rudd said that it appeared the bomber was not a lone wolf but added that it was "too early to reach any final conclusion on that."



She said that military personnel who were mobilized when the threat level was raised on Friday night will return to normal duties.



She urged the public to "continue to be vigilant but not be alarmed."



The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the fifth terrorist attack in the country over the past six months.



Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.
Chinese developers are teaming up with the United Kingdom's National Health Service to build a new hospital in Fuzhou, in Southeast China's Fujian province, that will specialize in care for the elderly and treating people with cancer and heart problems.

The Rongqiao Group, a large-scale Fuzhou-based property development company, sought NHS expertise to help it move into the health and care market. The company aims to oversee the facilitys completion by 2019.

The project has the support of the British government's Department for International Trade, and collaborators include the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester's Christie NHS Foundation Trust, and the Liverpool Heart and Chest NHS Foundation Trust.

Greg Hands, the UK's international trade minister, said:"The NHS is globally respected for its world-class healthcare, and exporting this expertise abroad brings investment back into the UK."

Funds provided by the Rongqiao Group to the NHS for its services will be reinvested into patient care in the UK.

Northumbria Healthcare, which is rated as "outstanding" by the UK's Care Quality Commission, operates 11 hospitals and health centers in the county of Northumberland in Northeast England.

The Rongqiao Group is working with Northumbria on developing a clinical model based around integrated healthcare, in which patients receive treatment both at hospital and at home, and the hospital partners with local authorities to provide social care.

Jared Djuhar, director of the Rongqiao Group, said: "Our vision is to improve the standard of medical care in China, starting with a world-class medical facility in Fuzhou. We believe that Northumbria, with its successful experience in integrated care in the UK, will be able to bring the best of the NHS to our project."

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and the Liverpool Heart and Chest NHS Foundation Trust will provide consultation services related to the hospital's cancer and cardiac units respectively.

Representatives from the NHS trusts have visited Fuzhou to help carry out a feasibility study for the new hospital, and Northumbria has provided UK training for delegations of Chinese doctors and nurses.

Claire Davies, director of communications at Northumbria Healthcare, said:"The latest Commonwealth Fund Report puts the UK health system as the most efficient and effective healthcare system in the world. So, a lot of countries are coming to the outstanding organizations within the NHS to get that advice, support and understanding on how they can develop world-class healthcare facilities."

Davies said Northumbrias expertise in elderly care is relevant to the Fuzhou project and China's health system at large, as the country contends with an aging population.

Rongqiao was partnered with the three NHS trusts by the UK International Healthcare Management Association, which facilitates connections between businesses and healthcare providers in the UK.
President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Monday, and they exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula situation.

Xi stressed that he is glad to maintain regular communication with the US president on issues of common concern, according to a release from the Foreign Ministry on Monday night.

China and the US share a broad range of common interests, and the current exchanges and cooperation in various fields are gaining good momentum, Xi said.

The two sides should strengthen high-level exchanges and those at various levels, ensure the success of the first round of the China-US social and cultural dialogue as well as the first round of the law enforcement and cybersecurity dialogue and expand bilateral cooperation in various fields, Xi said.

Trump said that it is satisfying that the two heads of state keep close contact and a good working-level relationship.

This year, both the US and China have important domestic agendas, Trump said, and he hopes that these agendas can be carried out smoothly.

Earlier this month, Trump announced that he will make a state visit to China in November.

Xi said China attaches importance to Trump's state visit and the two sides should work closely to ensure that the visit is fruitful and will inject new impetus into the development of China-US relations.

Trump told Xi he is very much looking forward to his forthcoming state visit to China, and he is confident that this visit will effectively push forward the US-China relationship.

On the recent major hurricanes hitting the US, Xi expressed condolences to Trump and asked Trump to relay his condolences to the US people.

Trump expressed appreciation in return.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (left) and US President Donald Trump pose for a photo prior to a high-level UN reform meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept 18, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

UNITED NATIONS -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US President Donald Trump on Monday called for a change of bureaucracy in the United Nations.

Guterres and Trump made their remarks at a high-level UN reform meeting in New York.

Guterres said that efforts were needed to change "fragmented structures" and "byzantine procedures" in the UN, making it a more "nimble and effective, flexible and efficient" global organization.

He also mentioned that the UN is making progress on a broad and bold reform agenda to strengthen itself.

"We are pursuing sweeping management reform -- to simplify procedures and decentralize decisions, with greater transparency, efficiency and accountability," Guterres added.

Meanwhile, reforms on UN peacekeeping operations and the development system, as well as strategies to achieve gender parity and end sexual abuse, were also underway, noted the UN chief.

Addressing the meeting, Trump said that the United Nations has been kept from reaching its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement.

He praised Guterres for laying out a vision to reform the UN, noting that there has been changes under the secretary general.

In his speech, Trump pointed out that the United Nations on a regular budget has increased by 140 percent, and its staff has more than doubled since 2000.
China raises concern over EU investment screening initiative

Xinhua | Updated: 2017-09-18 20:30

BEIJING -- China on Monday voiced concern over a proposal by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker to create a new EU framework for investment screening.



"If a foreign, state-owned company wants to purchase a European harbor, part of our energy infrastructure or a defence technology firm, this should only happen with transparency, scrutiny and debate," Juncker said in EU address.



Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the EU had for a long time promoted free trade and investment facilitation, which had brought real benefits to European nations.



An open world economy is in the interests of all and is an unstoppable trend, he told a routine press briefing.



"Closing the door will not achieve lasting development," he said. "The losses will outweigh the gains if people resort to protectionist trade policy for short-term interests."



Lu said he hoped the EU would respect World Trade Organization principles, especially non-discriminatory principles, in any measures it adopted.



The EU should avoid sending confusing and negative signals to the outside world, he said.
China, Russia start joint naval drills

Xinhua | Updated: 2017-09-18 21:12

VLADIVOSTOK -- China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.



The exercises are scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea.



It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.



The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.



The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.



The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.
I had the privilege or reading a pre-release version of "God Shines Forth: How the Nature of God Shapes and Drives the Mission of the Church." Here are 20 quotes from the book, which you should pick up.
home World Pakistan sentences Christian man to death over a poem that allegedly insulted Islam

A Pakistani Christian has been sentenced to death after he was found guilty of blasphemy for sharing a poem that allegedly insulted Islam.

Nadeem James, 35, was arrested in July 2016 after his Muslim friend, Yasir Bashir, accused him of sharing a poem on WhatsApp messaging service that was deemed derogatory toward Islam's prophet Muhammad and other holy figures.

Defense lawyer Riaz Anjum said that his client intends to appeal the death sentence handed down on Thursday by a sessions court in the town of Gujarat.

"My client will appeal the sentence in the high court as he has been framed by his friend who was annoyed over his [the accused's] affair with a Muslim girl," the lawyer said, as reported by Dawn.

The trial was reportedly held inside a prison for security reasons, as local clerics had threatened the accused and his family.

Blasphemy is considered a criminal offense in Pakistan, and mere allegations of the crime have often lead to violence against the accused.

In 2011, Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer was assassinated by his own bodyguard after he called for the country's blasphemy laws to be reformed. The assassin, who was executed last year, has been hailed by Islamic hardliners as a martyr.

Last April, a mob in Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan had beaten a student named Mashal Khan to death following a dorm debate about religion. Over 20 students and some faculty members were arrested in connection with the killing, according to Reuters.

The incident drew widespread outrage and had prompted the Pakistani parliament to consider adding safeguards to the blasphemy laws. The slain student has since been cleared of all blasphemy charges.

The Pakistani government has stepped up its crackdown against blasphemy related crimes on social media.

Earlier this year, former interior minister Chaudhry Nisar threatened to block social media websites with "blasphemous content."

In March, Nisar told a court that Facebook has removed 85 percent of blasphemous content from its website.

Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Syed Ismael said at the time that a 25-member team has been working to look for blasphemous content online. He noted that Facebook had previously refused to consider blasphemous material as a violation of policies, but the social network has since agreed to remove such reported pages.

"Facebook's agreement with our demands is a big achievement," Ismail said, adding, "they have assured to comply with our demand."

At least 67 murders have been committed over unproven allegations of blasphemy, according to data from a research center and independent records kept by Reuters. Most of the blasphemy cases are filed against members of minority communities.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Houston-area grocers face weeks or months of work to reopen stores that flooded severely during Hurricane Harvey, challenging residents in some of the city's hardest-hit areas to find food and supplies elsewhere.

Fiesta Mart, H-E-B and Kroger reopened the majority of their local stores within a week after the storm hit, but each closed several locations that will require substantial repairs and renovations. Some will reopen as early as next month, but others likely won't open until next year.

Other chains have also closed heavily flooded locations. The Houston Food Bank recently identified at least nine areas that will require extra donations as grocers work to reopen stores in places including East Houston, Baytown, Channelview, Kingwood, Cypress, Pasadena and Richmond.

Fiesta Mart, which closed three stores, expects to reopen two of those locations in the coming weeks. Its location on Mesa and Tidwell will likely open early next month, and crews are working to reopen the Northwood store on Interstate 10 shortly after that.

But the company hasn't yet determined when it will reopen a location near the Addicks Reservoir at Clay Road and Texas 6. Chief operating officer Mark Sellers said the store took on as many as 10 feet of water. Crews are still assessing the extent of the damage.

"That whole area is just starting to be accessible," he said.

RELATED: Harvey floodwaters left some neighborhoods in food desert

Kroger, which lost two stores on Cypresswood Drive, said it expects to reopen them within the next three months.

H-E-B expects to reopen its Joe V's Smart Shop near Timberwood by the first of October. But its stores in Meyerland and Kingwood will take months to repair.

The company lost all of its equipment at the Kingwood location and doesn't expect to reopen that store until the first of the year. The company hasn't yet set a timeline for repairing the Meyerland store on Braeswood at Chimney Rock, which only recently reopened after the Tax Day floods last year.

"It's taking longer to assess that store," Houston president Scott McClelland said. "We're still determining what the plans are going to be."
Sugar Land's Team Industrial Services is removing its chief executive after an activist investor letter last week called for his ouster.

Team Inc. CEO Ted Owen agreed to step down on Monday, allowing Team to install board member and retired Chevron executive Gary Yesavage as its interim CEO while a search is conducted. Team is an industrial services company primarily focused on the energy and petrochemical sectors.

The move follows a strongly worded letter last week from New York investment firm Engine Capital Management that largely blamed Owen for Team's plummeting stock value and called for his removal.

"Besides the fact that Mr. Owen has overseen massive value destruction through poor management and poor capital allocation, he is not the right leader for an operational turnaround," the letter stated. "The best chance for a successful turnaround at Team lies with having a strong operator at the helm, not a CEO with a financial background like Mr. Owen."

In August, Owen bemoaned "very disappointing results" after four straight quarters of net losses and struggling revenues. Team is dealing with debt woes, layoffs and other budget cuts. In a weaker business environment with many of Team's customers continuing to cut costs, Owen blamed project cancellations, reduced job scopes and deferred customer maintenance projects, among other issues. In the most recent second quarter, Team had an $11.1 million loss versus a $7.4 million profit during the same three months last year.

Team's stock value has especially struggled since late last year. The stock has fallen from $39.25 at the beginning of December down $13.50 at the end of last week.

Investor activism increasingly has pushed changes atop many big companies, both within and outside of the energy sector, in recent years. Such activism has forced CEO changes at Cheniere Energy, Transocean, Chesapeake Energy and SandRidge Energy, while placing pressure on eventual changes at NRG Energy and Apache Corp. Such activism also is fighting now to prevent mergers of The Woodlands-based Huntsman Corp. with Swiss-based Clariant, as well as Ensco's pending acquisition of Houston's Atwood Oceanics. Investors also succeeded in making tweaks to the future plans of the newly merged DowDuPont chemical giant.

At Team, Owen served as the longtime chief financial officer before taking over the CEO job three years ago. He will continue serving as a special adviser at Team before officially retiring at the end of this year.

"Team is in a period of transition, and I believe now is the right time for the Company to bring in new leadership that can guide our people and our customers into the next phase of success and value creation," Owen said Monday.

RELATED: Sugar Land company buys Furmanite in $335 million deal

Owen oversaw Team's growth through acquisitions of Houston companies Furmanite and QualSpec. But Engine criticized Team for allegedly overpaying for both and for failing to efficiently integrate the companies.

The Furmanite business, which was struggling before it was acquired, has especially weighed down Team finances, Owen has acknowledged.
Police in Splendora are investigating a Harvey flood-related fraud case involving at least eight victims, with more victims expected.

Houston resident Todd Parker Neuwirth, 40, is accused of stealing personal documents and electronic equipment from flood debris piles around Houston, Lt. Alex Hadrych said Monday, Sept. 18.

Victims so far are from Kingwood, Houston, Humble and other neighborhoods, plus one victim from North Carolina, Hadrych said.

VIRAL VIDEO: Man scares off looters from robbing store during Harvey

Search warrants are being obtained for the electronic equipment found in Neuwirth's possession and are expected to reveal additional victims, he said.

On Friday, Sept. 15, a Splendora K-9 officer stopped a speeding vehicle that made an unsafe lane changes on eastbound FM 2090 about 11:30 a.m., police said in a report.

Driver, Neuwirth, was allegedly acting nervous and denied a vehicle search. A K-9 dog alerted officers to the possible presence of narcotics, at which point the vehicle was searched.

Narcotics were not found inside the vehicle, but investigators say they found a laptop, several printers, hard drives, USB drives, driver's licenses, identification cards and social security numbers. They also allegedly found check printing paper.

"Upon talking to one of the victims it was learned he lived in Kingwood, Texas, and was a flood victim," the police report states.

"It is believed the suspect in this case is going through flooded houses and flood refuse piled out by the street and stealing any paperwork with personal information or documents that he then can forge, stealing the victim's identity cashing checks or getting credit cards in the victims' names."

Neuwirth was arrested and is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail on one count of tampering with a government record and one count of fraud. His bond is set at a total of $400,000.

Neuwirth's criminal history in Harris and Montgomery counties includes convictions for drug possession, theft, assault, credit/debit card abuse and harboring a runaway.
High-school applicants to the University of Texas at Austin will have to work a little harder to earn an acceptance next year after the state flagship said Friday that just applicants in the top 6 percent of a high-school class would be automatically admitted.

UT-Austin said in a statement Friday that the change was responding to the projected growth in in-state high school graduates over the next eight years. This fall's high-school seniors must be in the top 7 percent of their graduating classes.

Under state law, UT-Austin must admit most of its freshman class through an admissions policy that automatically accepts a portion of top-ranked Texas high school students. Called the Top 10 percent rule, that percentage has declined to now 6 percent as application numbers grow because UT-Austin can cap the number of automatic admits at 75 percent of its class.

DATA: Texas colleges that pull the most students out of poverty

The university can admit its other students through a process that weighs essays, test scores, race and other factors. Lawsuits have targeted that race-conscious process in recent years.

UT officials have questioned the law in recent years. University of Texas System Chancellor William McRaven said in an interview with the Texas Tribune last summer that it could deter students from pursuing their academic goals. For example, some students seeking admission to selective programs like engineering within UT-Austin will not be accepted to those degree programs, even if they earn admission to the university through the law, he said.

Top high school candidates outside of the automatic admission threshold who arent admitted through the program also decide to go to college in other states, he said.

We see a little bit of a brain drain from some of our high school candidates who decide to go elsewhere, he said.

UT-Austin President Greg Fenves said in a legislative hearing last spring that the number of students applying to UT-Austin who do not qualify as automatic admissions has grown to about 21,000 from 14,000  for about 3,300 spots  since 2009.

Several lawmakers support the law because of its perceived ability to diversify UT-Austins incoming classes. In 2016, the percentage of UT-Austin enrolled students who are Hispanic, for example, was much higher among automatic admits than for the students accepted outside that state law.

Fenves said at that hearing that he could not say definitively what demographic changes to UTs student body came from the states changing demographics and what came from the law.

BUCKING THE TREND: The typical college president is white, male and in his 60s. Houston's leaders don't fit the bill.

The projected growth in applications at UT-Austin  and elsewhere in Texas  runs counter to national trends. Nationally, universities are feeling an enrollment pinch as changes to the national birth rate more than a decade ago mean that the number of high school graduates will be stagnant through the early 2020s.

By 2020, there will be about 3,000 fewer public high school graduates in the U.S. than there were in 2013, according to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education.

But in that time period, the number of public high school graduates in Texas is projected to grow by several percentage points per year, amounting to a 22.6 percent growth between the 2011-12 academic year and 2024-25, the commission found.

Lindsay Ellis writes about higher education for the Chronicle. You can follow her on Twitter and send her tips at lindsay.ellis@chron.com.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Days after he was deemed competent to stand trial, a Texas man accused of stabbing his 16-year-old girlfriend to death in a brutal triple killing penned a handwritten letter to the judge proclaiming his innocence and alleging the slain girl is still alive.

Jesse Dobbs is facing a murder charge for the November slaying of Kirsten Fritch, and he's also a suspect in the killings of Fritch's mother and sister, 37-year-old Cynthia Morris and 13-year-old Breanna Pavilicek.

In early August, the 21-year-old's lawyer filed paperwork requesting a competency examination, alleging her client suffers delusional episodes and does not consistently understand the facts of the case.

A judge signed off on the request, and in mid-August a psychiatric examination found him competent, according to Galveston County prosecutor Bill Reed. The 26-page finding is sealed.

Days later, Dobbs fired off a three-page missive to the judge, requesting copies of court documents and alleging a frame job by Galveston County. He slammed the doctor who carried out his competency examination as "unprofessional" and coercive.

"Our justice system is supposed to protect innocent people such as myself, which it is not," he wrote, alleging the evidence against him was fabricated and his previous admission coerced.

"There is no hard evidence supporting the claims laid against me," he wrote, also accusing the prosecutor and his own lawyer of a conspiracy against him.

"I'm falsely accused of murdering someone which I know for a FACT isn't even dead" he continued.

This isn't the first time Dobbs has alleged his one-time girlfriend may be alive. Not long after the slaying, Dobbs confessed to investigators, according to court documents. But he said he'd killed "not the real Kirsten but the fake Kirsten."

In his August letter, Dobbs trashed his lawyer, denying her concerns about his competency.

"I understand y'all want to put me to death," he wrote.

"Y'all just want to frame me."

Dobbs was arrested in November, following days of searches and unanswered questions. The tragedy began to unfold early on Nov. 8 when police responded to the family's Louise Street in Baytown and found Fritch's mother and younger sister shot to death in the bedroom.

Hours later, authorities issued an Amber Alert for Fritch, who'd gone missing along with her boyfriend and the family car.

That morning, a man spotted the couple in a Texas City apartment complex. About 10 hours after that, Dobbs called an ex-girlfriend from the bar across the street and asked her to take him to Louisiana to see his kids one last time, according to court records.

Instead, the woman called police, who picked up Dobbs - wet and shoeless - and held him on resisting arrest charges.

After a two-day search, crews recovered Fritch's body from a nearby field. She'd been stabbed more than 50 times, according to the medical examiner.

Dobbs' attorney, Jyll Rekoff, said at the time that her client did not kill Fritch's mother and sister and that he was high on methamphetamine at the time of his arrest.

"I think there's another side to the story," she said.

Rekoff did not respond Sunday to a request for comment.
A 2-year-old girl was killed after a three-alarm blaze engulfed part of an apartment complex in southwest Houston on Monday afternoon.

Crews battled the flames for nearly two hours, after the fire sparked about 2 p.m.

Witness Aaron Jackson said the blaze inundated sides of one of the complex's buildings, near the intersection of Corporate and Westwood, and infiltrated at least eight units. Flames shot out of an open doorway.

The fire's sole fatality was the 2-year-old girl. Authorities have not confirmed the toddler's identity.

However, the girl's mother has identified her as Ayleen Gomez, local television stations report.

Her mother added Ayleen's 5-year-old brother was also in the apartment when the fire began but he was able to escape.

The cause of the fire is still unknown, though officials said Monday the fire department's arson agency was investigating.

Jackson spotted EMS taking stretchers in to the Lodge apartment complex.

"It's very bad," Jackson said.

Houston police were also dispatched to help control traffic in the area.
North Korea recently boasted that it has detonated a hydrogen bomb and it has the capability to fit a nuclear device on a missile aimed at the United States.

An emergency United Nations meeting convened on Sept. 4 to discuss more sanctions and other possible solutions to the looming crisis. CNN reported U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said recently that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was "begging for war" as she urged the UN Security Council to adopt the strongest sanctions measures possible to stop Pyongyang's nuclear program.

Taunting and begging for war clearly describes the North Korean leader's irrational behavior. He continually ignores cries from other nations to stop his nuclear development program and testing. Moreover, he flaunts the world community and shows contempt to other nations directives to stop all aggression.

Yet, have the sanctions imposed by the United Nations worked for the past 10 years? Apparently, it has only aggravated the problem by making the North Korean military regime develop more weapons of mass destruction. As it accumulates more military equipment and firepower, the country remains poor and brainwashed by its despotic leader.

If the United Nations eliminated all commerce and trade with North Korea by adopting the strongest sanctions measures, then the country's people would suffer from starvation and probably its society would experience a total economic collapse. At this point, its people would revert to survival instincts and uphold its leader by engaging in war, and this would create a huge refugee crisis for China. Thus, world leaders must find a better solution to deal with this problem that has reached critical state.

Yet, after implementing economic punishments for years, what other options exist for the United Nations? Has this issue reached the brink of war and does not have a resolution? At this point, does militarily removing Kim Jong Un and his regime represent the only feasible outcome to this critical problem?

Clearly, a war with nuclear bombs would not only cause mass destruction of people and property, but also poison the environment with radiation for thousands of years. The earth and all of its ecosystems would fail to support life as humans know it. Modern civilization would end and would revert to barbarism for people who would survive such a holocaust.

However, standing above wars and nuclear destruction, a thoughtful and enlightened humanity can practice a benevolent and an altruistic love for all of life. With this higher revelation, all countries must exercise high morals and make wise decisions because a nuclear war has no winners and losers. Humans will only lose an enormous part of their humanity.

How does the world deal with a tyrant that threatens people with nuclear destruction? How does a unified world stop a leader from testing and launching nuclear capable missiles? How does a civilized world stop a reckless and wanton leader from baiting, fleering, and threatening nations who want to live in peace?
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Every time Tim Heller from ABC-13 would flash the leader board showing the stats for the most rainfall in the Gulf Coast area, Dayton residents had to shudder.

Always atop the stat sheet, the community was shellacked with more than 50 inches of rain and there was no place for it to go.

Hundreds of Liberty County residents felt the ravages of Hurricane Harvey, and none more than school children who were traumatized by the losses felt by devastated parents who were powerless to save their belongings.

The thought of returning to school may have seemed a million miles away to students in Dayton ISD, but they weren't devoid of help coming their way.

A Dallas-area principal used social media, Google documents, and newsletter software to connect principals around the country with principals in affected schools in south Texas.

Ronny Snow, principal at Malakoff Elementary in Malakoff, just west of Athens, in the northern part of the state, saw something that caught his eye.

"Our assistant superintendent sent out the list from Google Docs and I began to scroll through it," he said.

He came across Richter Elementary in Dayton, Texas, and had some connections to the town.

"We had a little bit of tie-in knowing some people here," Snow said. "We wanted to help someone, but when you know someone personally, you wanted to help them."

The principal adopted Richter on the Principals Helping Principals document and then put the word out to his community, 'Hey we need stuff right now," he said.

The principal told them to gather basic cleaning supplies, clothes with the tags still on them - sized and boxed, shoes, water, Gatorade, non-perishable food, backpacks with school supplies in them and much more.

"We put it out on Thursday and everyone started dropping off items on Friday, Monday, and Tuesday," he said.

The principal waited until after Richter's first day of school to see if they could give them a better idea on Wednesday after they started.

"We got it all loaded up after school [on Wednesday] and I jumped in the Malakoff truck with the Malakoff band trailer and southeast I went," he said. "If we need to do anything else, we're ready to help."

Snow said as proud Texans and they can argue about Cowboys and Texans, Mavericks vs. Rockets or whatever, but when it comes down to it, "we're all Texans and being a fifth generation Texan, I have a lot of pride in my state," he said.

"I don't need anybody in the rest of the country taking care of my fellow Texans because we're going to do it," he said beaming.

Richter principal Lecia Eubanks couldn't have been more thankful.

"Our first thought was all of the families we knew were going to need to help," she said. "We didn't flood in the school, but the homes did and so we had children and families that lost almost everything."

The principal went to work creating the Richter Rebuild Center, a room in the school to serve as the center for all the donations.

Beginning the first day after school started, parents came in with their families if they had a child in Richter and scavenged through the desperately needed supplies.

Eubanks said every child that didn't have a backpack was provided one.

"We have families who have children all the way through high school, not just here at Richter, but all of their family members," she said.

They provided diapers, bottles, clothes, shoes, backpacks, supplies.

"You name it, they needed it," she said.

Eubanks used technology to spread the word through the school's Facebook and Twitter feed.

"We also sent home letters to parents and just word of mouth around the community so they're coming in," Eubanks said.

Part of that small town, hometown feel came through as each of the teachers made personal contact with their students and their families by phone before they came back to find out how they weathered the storm and what were their needs.

"We created a Google doc with all of the students on that list and parents began coming in to pick up their care packages," Eubanks said, "and we've had some who came in to register and needed supplies."

Eubanks said the concentration of affected students were along the river, but said there were pockets of students throughout the community who were affected.

"If they're in need, we're providing it," she said.

"I'm proud of all of our principals and administrative team," said Dayton ISD Superintendent Dr. Jessica Johnson. "Everyone has been working behind the scenes throughout this whole Hurricane Harvey mess in various ways."

Travis Young, spokesperson for the district, had just sent out a notice to the principals that would affect every student.

"We applied for a waiver for food during the month of September and it was approved," Young said. "That means that all our students in the district, through September 30, will eat breakfast and lunch for free. It's just another way for us to give relief to our families here in the community."

The Child Nutrition department applied for the waiver.

"We're pleased to be able to help our folks that way," Johnson said.

She was also proud to announce that every Dayton ISD school had been adopted by one, two, or even three schools now.

"Their other school is Virginia. We're closer," Snow laughed, glad to be first to the rescue.

Eubanks and her teachers were assisted by the Texas Army National Guard who came to help unload the trailer and store the supplies in the Richter Rebuild Center.

To donate or pick up supplies, contact Eubanks at the school at 936-258-7126.
The annual Coldspring Library Garage Sale is ready to come back in October to provide donated items for sale to the public and also raise money for the Coldspring Area Public Library.

The Garage Sale is one of the annual fundraising events hosted by the Friends of the Library to provide for the Coldspring library's needs.

Sale items often include books, toys, games, sporting equipment, household items, furniture, seasonal items, electronics and more.

"You literally can get just a bunch of different things," said Nancy Schick of the Friends of the Library.

According to Schick, the fundraisers for the Coldspring library raise around $47,000 annually.

"The garage sale is about one-fourth of what we need to raise each year," she said.

While the Friends are accepting donations for the sale, they're also looking for volunteers.

"We really are looking for younger people to help us," said Schick.

Schick emphasizes that the Friends of the Library are finding it harder and harder to get the manpower for their events, prompting a search for younger members who share the same interest in the library's continued function.

The garage sale has a few surprises this year, with one of them including tickets for sale from Darnele Schreiber.

"She will be selling tickets in advance for the Princess Tea Party," said Schick.

Other entities have also contributed to the library such as Joe's Italian Restaurant, which has started a fundraiser where it donates 10 percent of its proceeds to the cause for one day.

"They're going to do it every last Wednesday of every month," said Schick.

The garage sale is scheduled for Oct. 5 and 6 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Oct. 7 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The bag sale starts at 11 a.m. on Oct. 7. The bake sale is scheduled for Oct. 5 and 6 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Setup for the event begins on Oct. 2. Food will be provided to the volunteers. The garage sale will be held at the Coldspring Community Center located at 101 East Cedar Ave., Coldspring, behind the San Jacinto County courthouse.

For more information on the garage sale or volunteering for the event, call Schick at 936-718-5779 or the Coldspring library at 936-653-3104.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Lucky Star Cleaners has moved to a new location and celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 14 with the Coldspring/San Jacinto County Chamber of Commerce.

The business is owned by Renee Isbell, who bought it three years ago from her niece. Lucky Star Cleaners was initially located at 15110 SH 150 Coldspring, Texas 77331.

"We were right across the street by Cutting Edge," said Isbell.

Lucky Star Cleaners is now located at 15131 SH 150 Coldspring, Texas 77331, which was the previous location for Jon's Computer Repair. Isbell moved her business to the new location on Aug. 1.

"We were looking for a larger location," said Isbell. "We wanted better parking for our customers."

Isbell offers a variety of services through Lucky Star Cleaners such as laundry, dry cleaning, alterations, repairs, wedding and formal gown cleaning, tuxedo rentals, leather cleaning, suede cleaning, garment storage and more.

"We just do a little bit of everything," she said.

Lucky Star Cleaners is hoping to expand its services, according to Isbell.

"We're going to utilize all that space in there," she said.

Isbell says she is hoping to open a small Christian bookstore in the location and sell T-shirts. There is no tentative date as to when these services may be provided.

"I'm excited to be able to serve the people and be a part of the community of Coldspring," said Isbell.

For more information on Lucky Star Cleaners, call 936-653-2111 or email mash3302@yahoo.com.
Dear Neighbors,

As the regular and special legislative sessions have come to an end, it is now time for the Texas Legislature to focus on interim charges. Interim charges offer an opportunity to hear from the public, research potential solutions, and recommend possible actions that the Texas House of Representatives should take in 2019.

So far, the House has released the first five interim charges, with each charge relating to the impact of Hurricane Harvey. Many of these charges directly reflect the challenges we have faced throughout this disaster.

Under the direction of House Committee on Appropriations, members will examine the use of federal funds by state agencies responding to the effects of Harvey to identify opportunities and maximize the use of federal funds. This is extremely important up and down our district as we witnessed the constant need for resources and aid. Thankfully with the combined efforts throughout the state and here locally, much of those funds were in the form of donations and volunteers.

The committee will also identify the need for state resources and opportunities in state infrastructure projects that will reduce the impact of future natural disasters. HD 18 continues to address these issues because we have numerous roads and bridges that still need rebuilding.

The House Committee on Public Education will seek to determine the scope of the financial losses, including their facilities. They will also offer recommendations on measures needed at the state level to prevent unintended punitive consequences to both students and districts in the state accountability system.

As you know, one of the most important things to remember in the aftermath is making sure the facilities are safe and our students can return to their normal schedules within their classrooms and daily lives. The committee will also examine the educational opportunities offered to students displaced throughout the state and the process by which districts enroll and serve those students.

In an effort to examine the role of regional entities, such as TxDOT, in developing projects to control flooding, both through new infrastructure and enhancing existing infrastructure, the House Committee on Natural Resources, will work to mitigate efforts to reduce future impact from flooding. Throughout this disaster, our local commissioners have provided great foresight in recognizing and solving the challenges due to this storm.

I am optimistic that these interim charges are a great start to many more, and I am excited to start working with the House committees along with our local stakeholders to focus on issues to be addressed now and in the upcoming legislative session.

As always, if there is anything I can assist with or if you have any thoughts on potential interim charges, please don't hesitate to contact me. You can reach me by email at district18.bailes@house.texas.gov or by calling 936-628-6687.
The first phase of Cornell Universitys new campus opened last week as interdisciplinary courses in topics from information science to computer engineering moved to breathtaking facilities on Roosevelt Island, a 12-acre sliver of land between Manhattan and Queens hundreds of miles from the Ivy League schools campus in Ithaca.

Houston officials and Texas university leaders may be taking note.

A focus group for the Houston land purchased by the University of Texas System evaluated the Cornell campus as a possible model for its operations. The Cornell campus touts private work spaces and open-plan offices that are modeled after tech companies workspaces, and The Wall Street Journal says the campus buildings set a new bar for architecture.

HoustonChronicle.com: McRaven's Houston buy cost political capital

Companies including Citigroup and Two Sigma Investments will operate out of the campus in an effort to encourage collaboration with researchers and students. Courses  which have operated in Googles Manhattan offices for years  will focus on everything from health technology to launching a startup.

As former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg told The New York Times:

High-tech companies and new, small companies that will be the next big companies, they tend to be created where the founders go to school. You see that in Silicon Valley. Here was a chance to get a bunch of people educated and create the economy of the future for New York City.

If Chancellor William McRaven hadnt called off the Houston plans, the task force would have proposed an idea for an institute for data science, saying it would bolster Houston's energy and health sectors and would allow UT to collaborate with industry and national laboratories.

Supporters said the institute's work could lead to more efficient and sustainable energy distribution and smarter health care delivery.

That operation, of course, was called off in March amid growing criticism from lawmakers, regents and Houston campuses  before the system or task force unveiled publicly any vision for the property. McRaven said he couldnt develop a shared vision for UTs use of the land. The project cost him political capital in Austin, and he pledged to sell the land.

But in his annual State of the City address, Mayor Sylvester Turner asked the University of Houston, Rice University and Texas A&M to work with UT to take on a task force's recommendations for how to use the 300-plus acres near the Texas Medical Center.

"If Houston wants to remain a global leader in energy, aeronautics, health care and education, we also need to be a leader in data science. And the world's premiere data science center needs to be and must be right here in the city of Houston," Turner said.

UNVEILING: Tech campus opens on Roosevelt Island

Cornells vision for its Roosevelt Island campus touched on similar interdisciplinary themes, with a focus on collaboration between business and academia. Greg Pass, a former chief technology officer at Twitter who oversees the business-focused program, told the Chronicle of Higher Education that master's degree offerings aim to make academic work "matter to real people."

The Cornell Tech campus was created in response to a competition put forward by Bloomberg, who asked institutions to pitch an applied sciences and technology campus for the city to diversify the citys economy outside of finance, insurance and real estate.

Turner in his State of the City echoed those themes.

UTs data science institute, he said, could represent a unique opportunity for Houston to diversify our economy, solidify our leadership in tech and strengthen our world class educational institutions. We cannot let this opportunity slip through our fingers because the initial approach was wrong.

Lindsay Ellis writes about higher education for the Chronicle. You can follow her on Twitter and send her tips at lindsay.ellis@chron.com.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

A substitute teacher and her students got a surprise Friday, when a snake slithered out from a child's backpack and onto her desk.

Fifth-graders at West Columbia Elementary school in West Colombia, Texas, were in a social studies class when the small serpent made its way out for the class to see.

BITTEN: Houston TV anchor Art Rascon bitten by copperhead snake

The substitute teacher, Heather DuPont, ran a few doors down to fellow educator Phyllis Chappell's classroom and said: "Can you come help get a snake out of the room?"

Chappell was obviously surprised, and accompanied DuPont back to the room, where students were rattled by the discovery.

TEXAS VETS: There's an increase in rattlesnakes biting dogs in Austin

"They were scared, one boy even jumped on top of a chair, he thought it would be safer," Chappell told Chron.com, adding the girl who may have inadvertently carried the snake in was still shaken. "She's still freaking out, saying she doesn't have any idea how it got here."

Chappell said she grabbed a trash bag from the classroom and ushered the snake into it, pointing out that she never touched it. They still don't know what kind of snake it was.

"He went in pretty easily. I felt like I was a snake catcher," Chappell quips. Eventually she dumped it out from the bag and let it slither away, though not before snapping a shot of the reptile make its escape.

SURPRISE SIGHTINGS: Warmer weather makes for more snakes in news headlines

The snake, about a foot long, may have come from the backpack owner's home. The girl told Chappell she keeps the bag on the floor at her house, which is nearby some Brazoria County properties that flooded during Harvey.

Chappell said she suspects the snake was retreating to higher ground and somehow made its way into the girl's bag.

With the area's recent floods, it'll be interesting to see if similar surprised keep cropping up at people's homes, workplaces and schools.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Splendora police corralled three suspected drug dealers during traffic stops on Saturday and Sunday, one accused of dealing methamphetamine and the others accused of dealing ecstacy and illicit prescription pills.

About 2 p.m. Sept. 16 , a police officer stopped a Camaro speeding on U.S. 59 near FM 2090, the police department said in a Facebook post.

When a K-9 unit inspected the vehicle, a search revealed 122 grams of Xanax bars and 90 grams of ecstasy pills.

INFO STOLEN: Splendora suspect accused of gathering private data from flood debris

The driver, identified as Kevin Lamont Stelivan, 28, of Little Rock, Arkansas, and passenger, Maurice Larell Everette, 19, of Little Rock, were both arrested and charged with manufacturing controlled substances with intent to deliver.

Police said Stelivan was also on probation for a similar charge in Arkansas.

Both men are being held in the Montgomery County Jail with bonds set at $200,000 each.

"Best reaction was when we told them their bond was 200K a piece," the police department posted in a Facebook comment. "They didn't take us seriously when we told them MOCO don't play."

METH BUST: Massive distribution lab discovered in Dallas

On Sept. 17 at about 3 p.m., police stopped a vehicle as it failed to use a turn signal while entering the Trinity Pines mobile home park in the 14900 block of 1st Street.

The driver of the vehicle consented to a vehicle search, but the passenger was acting nervous, police said.

Under the passenger seat, police say they found a large plastic bag containing 25 grams of methamphetamine.

The passenger, Cody Wayne Barnhart, 24, of Splendora, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture and deliver.

He is being held in the Montgomery County Jail with bond set at $50,000.
Pastor Rick Warren, author of the best-selling book "The Purpose Driven Life," hosted more than 300 interdenominational religious leaders at First Baptist Church Monday, offering them resources as they lead their congregations through Hurricane Harvey recovery.

Warren, from the evangelical megachurch Saddleback Church in California, hosted the event with pastor Kerry Shook of The Woodlands Church.
This Saturday, Sept. 23, we hope you can join us in a festive environment to honor our first responders and volunteers who helped in the midst of the worst storm in the history of The Woodlands.

The Community Safety Expo: A Hometown Salute to Harvey Heroes and Volunteers will be held at our newly renovated Northshore Park on scenic Lake Woodlands from noon to 3 p.m. with an official thank-you and brief presentation from the main stage at 1:30 p.m.

Throughout Hurricane Harvey, first responders worked tirelessly to provide assistance and rescue services to residents of The Woodlands. There were over 800 people rescued and six from life-threatening situations. Our fire department, ranked No. 1 in the country, worked around the clock for rescues and provided assistance to residents and businesses.

Our public safety entities, in Montgomery County and Harris County, tirelessly helped our residents as did our commissioners of both county courts.

Volunteers and elected officials stepped up to serve their neighbors in need at local organizations such as Interfaith of The Woodlands and a variety of shelters within the community. We encourage our residents to take this opportunity to thank the many first responders and volunteers for their hard work throughout the storm. Interfaith will be on hand for the collection of "gift cards" for thousands of people who still need help.

In addition to honoring hometown heroes, the National Night Out Community Safety Expo, produced by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, will feature live music provided by the Texas Joe Bailey band and public safety demonstrations for the entire community. Grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and various refreshments will be provided free of charge. Numerous local agencies will participate including the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Crime Stoppers, the Texas Rangers, Harris County Constable's Office Precinct 4, Harris County Sheriff's Office, The Woodlands Fire Department and many more. Many state and federal public safety agencies will participate also.

Residents can meet public safety personnel, see equipment, tour mobile command units of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and Homeland Security, watch law enforcement K-9 demonstrations and more at this free event. New this year, the Expo will feature virtual reality goggles in addition to driving simulators. These goggles simulate a variety of scenarios such as distracted driving and texting while driving, along with motorcycle driving. Children can enjoy face painting, a bounce house, crafts and hanging out with McGruff the Crime Dog. Parking will be available in the Aon Hewitt parking lot across from Northshore Park.

We hope you can come on out and experience the sights and sounds of public safety lights and sirens, and enjoy a beautiful afternoon in Northshore Park with The Woodlands Township as we celebrate public safety in The Woodlands.

For more information, see The Woodlands Township's webpage at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and like the Township on Facebook.

Gordy Bunch is the chairman of The Woodlands Township Board of Directors.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The Baytown woman accused of killing and dismembering her boyfriend with a machete was "uncaring" and showed "no remorse" after investigators collared her in Louisiana, police said Monday.

Cierra Sutton is still awaiting extradition from Jefferson Parish after police say she shot a sleeping Steven Coleman and allegedly deposited his severed remains in different dumpsters because the body was too heavy to move, according to court records.

"This is a first for me. It's a first for every one of my detectives to be honest with you," said Lt. Steve Dorris. "Fortunately we haven't had anything like this happen in my 18-plus years I've been with the Baytown Police Department."

BACKGROUND: Victim identified in alleged Baytown dismemberment case

The 32-year-old father and aspiring rapper disappeared in mid-August, two days before his then-girlfriend filed a missing persons report with local police.

Coleman's two cars were still sitting outside the couple's place at Briarwood Village Apartments after he vanished, and the missing man's mother said she hadn't heard from him in days, police said.

Then on Aug. 22, a worker pushing back a pile of debris at the Baytown landfill in Chambers County made a gruesome discovery. Hidden in the trash was man's torso, which authorities preliminarily identified as Steven Coleman.

No other remains have yet been found, though police are still on the hunt.

"Is it possible that there are other remains at that landfill? Sure it is," Dorris said. "We've had a major event since then, Hurricane Harvey, which kind of put us back a few weeks on our investigation. Unfortunately during the course of that few weeks, more and more debris and garbage has been brought to that landfill so that makes it significantly harder to find anything."

Authorities have combed through "quite a bit" of the landfill, Dorris said.

"That's a massive undertaking, because you're talking about tons and tons of garbage and debris to sift through," he said.

After a number of friends told police Sutton had confessed to the slaying, authorities tracked her to Louisiana and took her into custody without incident on Thursday, scooping her up as she walked out of a Metairie apartment.

Despite rumors to the contrary, Dorris said it is "not completely accurate" that the 30-year-old confessed to police - though she did provide information placing herself in the apartment. She also confessed to multiple friends and acquaintances, according to court records, at one point allegedly admitting to shooting Coleman while her daughter was in the living room.

When police searched the couple's apartment, they found it nearly vacant and covered in possible blood traces, records show.

It's not clear if Sutton had any accomplices, Dorris said, adding that there may have been other people around at the time. Court records show one witness spotted two men helping Sutton load unidentified items into a vehicle following Coleman's disappearance.

As news of the slaying spread, Coleman's friends shared their grief, some posting videos of his music, others leaving choice comments on Sutton's Facebook page.

The refinery worker was a loving father to his daughter and a loyal family man, friends said. At one point, he even wrote a song about his love for Sutton.

"He didn't deserved what happened," said Jasmine Wilson. "That was a damn good man."

And as the local hip-hop community mourns and investigators toil to close the case, Coleman's mother is left trying to pick up the pieces.

"She's devastated, she's heartbroke," Dorris said. "Whatever adjective you wanna use, she's crushed."
More about the controversial controlled releases from two Houston dams; how destruction affected small cities like South Houston and Wharton and profiles of all of Houston's known Harvey victims - all in this week's #investigative and #in-depth reporting.

Two elderly dead as Memorial-area residents ask why evacuations not ordered

By Mihir Zaveri and Cindy George

@mihirzaveri and @cindylgeorge

The decision came late at night, when much of the city was already asleep.

With little warning and no evacuation orders, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began releasing water about midnight Aug. 27 from the struggling Barker and Addicks reservoirs, pushing floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey deeper into several west Houston neighborhoods.

Robert Arthur Haines and Cathy Harling Montgomery, both 71, could not escape. They drowned after their Memorial-area homes near Buffalo Bayou began to fill up with water after the dam releases began.

Floodwaters gone in South Houston, but no sign of FEMA

By John D. Harden

@jdharden

It's been about two weeks since Hurricane Harvey ceased its devastating torrential rains on South Houston, but Irene Tamayo said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has yet to pay her or the city of about 16,000 residents a visit.

"I'm still listed as pending," she said. "I tried to schedule an appointment a week ago, but I'm still waiting." Tamayo is the face of a problem still plaguing some parts of this small city, where residents are stuck in limbo as they wait for federal help.

Marie D. De Jesus/Staff

New law limits doctors' ability to invoke DNR without patient consent

By Todd Ackerman

@ChronMed

Alisha Hauber had never heard the phrase "do not resuscitate" when she saw the hospital order on her son Lane's crib a few days after he was delivered.

Hauber knew something was wrong with Lane as soon as he was born, but only after Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth finished testing did she learn he had a chromosomal disorder doctors often call "incompatible with life." She was told Lane wouldn't survive a week and the decision not to attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation non-negotiable.

But beginning next April, the right of Texas hospitals and doctors to write unilateral DNRs in cases like Lane's will be dramatically curtailed under a new law signed by Gov. Greg Abbott.

Residents of flood-ravaged Wharton County feel forgotten in Harvey's wake

By Emily Foxhall

@emfoxhall

For residents of rural Wharton County, located some 60 miles southwest of downtown Houston, the floodwaters came quickly - in a matter of hours, perhaps faster. They arrived as a wall of water, pushing across fields, over roads and up to doorsteps.

But outside of Wharton, no one seemed to notice the force that residents of this rural community faced.

Harvey's human toll: Each victim's tale carries its own tragic arc

By Houston Chronicle staff

A beloved pastor and his wife swept away by a raging creek in Fort Bend County. An elderly man who died alone, trapped by rising waters in his west Houston home. Six members of the Saldivar family trying to escape the torrential rains. A dedicated police officer who could not ignore his duty. Read the stories behind the Houston area's 50 Harvey deaths.
Houston residents returning from their lunch breaks were hit with wet weather on the way back to the office Monday. Less than a tenth of an inch of rain was expected Monday afternoon, but the National Weather Service predicts more rain for the week.

MORE WEATHER: See the full forecast here
WASHINGTON  As Donald Trump and the Congress look for an agreement to protect young immigrants from deportation, the NAACP brought suit Monday on behalf of "Dreamers" who would be hit by the administration's decision to end an Obama-era program that provided temporary legal status.

Following California and 15 other states, the nation's oldest civil rights organization is challenging the constitutionality of the president's plan to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program.
AUSTIN -- The first line of defense between the outside world and Texas' gold will be Travis County Sheriff's Office veteran Bryan Whoolery, announced Lone Star Tangible Assets on Thursday.

Whoolery, a 28-year employee of the office and a SWAT team leader, will be the director of security for the long-awaited Texas Bullion Depository.

"Lone Star Tangible Assets is pleased Sgt. Bryan Whoolery will spearhead state-of-the-art security measures and programs to safeguard the depository," said Lone Star Chairman Matthew Ferris. "Whoolery has the requisite experience to ensure that all of our precious metals stay safe in Texas."

According to Chris Bryan, a spokesman for the Texas Comptroller's Office, Whoolery recently retired from full-time duty at the sheriff's office, and is now working full time for the bullion depository.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill into law establishing the Texas Bullion Depository in 2015. Prior to this summer, progress had been slow. Progress has quickened after Tom Smelker was named as the depository administrator and Lone Star was awarded a five-year contract to operate the facility in June.

"I applaud LSTA for choosing Sgt. Whoolery to fill this critical role," Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said in a press release. "His long and distinguished career in law enforcement, including his extensive tactical experience and training background, will let Texas Bullion Depository account holders sleep soundly knowing their gold and precious metals are safe and secure right here in the Lone Star State."

According to a press release from the comptroller's office, Whoolery will lead multiple training programs for the depository's armed security teams and coordinate to "reduce fraud and provide dignitary protection." Whoolery will also provide workplace safety programs for non-security personnel.

The depository was first envisioned as a new home for millions of dollars' worth of gold bullion owned by the University of Texas Investment Management Company that manages investments for the UT and Texas A&M systems and stores it in a facility in New York City. It also was seen as a place for gold owners to keep their private bullion, but when Abbott first signed the bill creating the depository, he declared Texas would "repatriate" the gold.

Officials with UTIMCO, currently the only Texas entity that owns a significant amount of gold, told the Houston Chronicle they have no intention of moving their gold Texas for the time being.

"The primary goal is to create a new, highly secure, well-managed, and fully audited depository operation for Texas and U.S. Citizens," said Bryan.

"There is currently no depository in the United States available to the general public that actually has administrative oversight from the state where it operates. Nearly all of the inquiries about the depository have been related to individuals, IRA Trustees, and corporations that wish to have a precious metals position held at the Texas Bullion Depository. The collective amount of these types of clients will far exceed the position owned by UTIMCO."
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The teenager accused of leading Shenandoah police officers on a short chase was indicted Tuesday, weeks after he penned a heartfelt letter to the judge in his case pleading for leniency.

Davonte Dashawn Lee, 18, is facing up to life in prison after he was arrested June 14 for allegedly stealing tools from Home Depot at Tamina Road and Interstate 45, then leading Shenandoah officers on a brief chase around the area. He's charged with first-degree felony aggravated assault against a public servant, third-degree felony evading arrest and state-jail felony theft.

PRIVATE INFO STOLEN: Splendora suspect accused of stealing from flood debris

Five men in total loaded two cars with the merchandise around 3:45 p.m. in the back parking lot of the home improvement store in the 19100 block of Interstate 45, according to Shenandoah Assistant Police Chief Barry Gresham, but were abruptly stopped by Home Depot employees. The employees called police as soon as they saw the men in the act.

Two of the men fled on foot behind the store south on David Memorial Drive, and eventually got into a wooded area east of the roadway, police said.

At the same time, two getaway vehicles were trying to exit the rear parking lot as officers with Shenandoah Police Department responded. The two getaway vehicles collided with each other before one of the vehicles, a black Dodge Charger, struck a Shenandoah police cruiser causing minor damage, Gresham said.

As the getaway vehicles drove away, they hopped over the grass median onto David Memorial Drive and headed north.

Intense video released to The Courier by SPD shows the Charger drove west on Alexandra Lane, which runs between Home Depot and the Portofino Shopping Center, but struck a curb which caused the front-right tire to come loose. The Charger eventually turned south onto the northbound frontage road after the loose tired came off and narrowly missed an SUV.

As the smoking, disabled Charger came to a stop, two men  later identified as Darryl Lee, 20, and Davonte Lee, 18  allegedly fled east on foot back into the Home Depot parking lot. After a brief foot chase, officers arrested the two.

In a July 31 letter Davonte Lee sent to 9th state District Court Judge Phil Grant, who is overseeing his case, the teenager said he has a bright future ahead of him.

"I did wrong and that was picking the wrong crowd," he wrote. "I don't want this to define my life. I'm better than that."

Davonte Lee said he wants to join the United States Air Force and work in technology.

"I learned a lot being here in jail," he said. "I had my 18th birthday in jail. I heard a lot of people's stories, and I know I'm not a failure or a threat to society."

Later in the letter, he mentions his faith in God and accepted responsibility for what happened.

"It hurts me worst because I know better," he said. "A lot of people counted on me and I let them down.  I let my dreams and goals go down the drain."

He said he's particularly interested in working with building and flying drones for the Air Force. Before his arrest, he purchased a personal drone and began marketing his skills by using the drone to make videos of special events, like church happenings or funerals.

"I'm not that person on that paper," he said. "I'm better than that. I have a purpose in life and I want to be successful.

"I don't want to become another statistic."

Davonte Lee will be back in Grant's court Oct. 19. He is being held in the Montgomery County Jail with no bond. Montgomery County grand jury indictments for Sept. 12 and 14:

Malquiel Cuevas-Hernandez, sexual assault

Brian Clark Bushman, injury to a child and endangering a child

Jonathon Christian MacDonald, aggravated sexual assault of a child

Ian Lee Cammack, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Rebekah Lee Rorie, possession of controlled substance

Larry Laverne Dunn Jr., burglary of habitation

Joshua Allen Coker, possession of controlled substance and unlawful possession of firearm by felon

Derrick Anthony Chatham, forgery and fraudulent possession of identifying items

Ellis Rvon McDaniel II, assault causing bodily injury family enhanced

Joshua Wayne Dams, burglary of habitation (x3) and unauthorized use of motor vehicle

Eduardo Castaneda Jr., robbery and burglary of habitation

Terrance Donshay Traylor, possession of controlled substance

Leigh Dorian Bienek, possession of controlled substance

Michael Eromosele Irabor, manufacture or possession with intent to deliver controlled substance

Mauricio Vidales, DWI  with a child

Jason Roy Garcia, assault family strangulation

Rhett Michael Birdwell, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Jason Shiloh McDowell, manufacture or possession with intent to deliver controlled substance

Brandon Scott Stanley, possession of controlled substance

Jacinto Vega Jr., possession of controlled substance

Jennifer Renee Villarreal, possession of controlled substance

Aurelio Rocha, evading arrest detention with vehicle

Cassandra Josephine Smith, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Joshua Clayton Johnson, tampering with physical evidence and accident causing bodily injury/death

Jeremy Sherrod Phillips, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Matthew Thomas Hynous, burglary of habitation and possession of controlled substance

James Kyle Biddison, burglary of habitation and theft of firearm

Joshua Enrique Bustoz, burglary of habitation

Christopher Austin Cook, burglary of habitation and theft of firearm

Steven Ryan Vercher, aggravated sexual assault of a child

Nathan Reese Smith, aggravated assault with deadly weapon (x2)

Johnny Angel Lara, assault family strangulation

Johnny Santamaria, sexual assault of a child

Enrique Martinez Orozco, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Keith Douglas Horn Jr., sexual assault of a child

Jose Luis Medelez Jr., failure to report change of address

Daniel Pierre Felder, forgery

Maribel Teresa Pineda, aggravated assault with deadly weapon

Reinier Alvarez-Marichal, unlawful use of criminal instrument

Nerey Yannis Mazorra, unlawful use of criminal instrument and possession of controlled substance

Dorcell Juvar Hightower, aggravated assault with deadly weapon

Ricky Lee Clark II, possession or promotion of child pornography (x4)

Melissa Nichole Branon, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Tommy Joe Domingue, online solicitation of a minor

Andreas Karl Henschke, promotion of child pornography and possession or promotion of child pornography (x5)
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.
We attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message.
All-Conference WEC teams The All-Conference teams for the War Eagle Conference have been announced with multiple MMCRU and South OBrien volleyball players making...

Crane signs off, for now I miss my ol' buddy, sportscaster Keith Crane on the sidelines. I miss his friendly smile, his dedication to his...
Florida homeowners insurers are poised to thrive following Hurricane Irma. For years, critics have disparaged Floridas unique homeowners insurance industry. These innovative and entrepreneurial insurers are about to prove critics wrong.

The $100B Detour

It should first be acknowledged that luck is a factor. Floridas homeowners insurers breathed a sigh of relief when Irma turned west and gradually lost its strongest windspeeds. Irma could have resulted in $200 billion in losses if it made landfall as a Category 5 in Miami. Instead of following this devastating path, Irma made a northerly turn as it approached Floridas west coast and quickly weakened as it turned inland. Irma ultimately spared Floridas most dense populations from the most catastrophic damage, and damage estimates decreased from hundreds of billions to under $40 billion.

Unparalleled Reinsurance Programs

Irmas detour is not the only stroke of luck for these insurers. Leading up to Irma, Florida insurers have used a decade-long hurricane drought as an opportunity to strengthen reinsurance programs. When Irma made landfall, Floridas 50 domestic homeowners insurers had accumulated $40 billion in capital to insure their 60 percent share of the homeowners insurance market.

For most insurers, Irmas magnitude translates to only a fraction of direct expense. Although responding to claims will test insurers operational capacity, from a financial standpoint, reinsurers will pick up a vast majority of the tab. Floridas Hurricane Catastrophe Fund is also available to insurers and offers $17 billion in additional protection.

After a decade without a hurricane in South Florida, Floridas insurers invested significant portions of revenue into affordable comprehensive reinsurance. As a result, these insurers are prepared to endure a storm of Irmas magnitude.

Florida Hurricane Recovery Obstacles

Florida insurers have developed policies to mitigate potential exposure for hurricane damages. Three protections are worth highlighting. Homeowners cannot file a claim later than three years after the event. Additionally, insurers can include higher deductibles for hurricane losses, deterring the vast majority of low value litigation. A third key protection is that Florida homeowners insurers generally exclude flood damage from coverage.

Although these protections seem subtle, insurers that handled one million insurance claims arising from Hurricane Wilma know that everything counts.

Mature Claims Departments

The assignment of benefits (AOB) crisis prepared Florida homeowners insurers for the inevitable onslaught of disputed Irma claims and litigation. Since 2015, many insurers have built strong departments staffed with claims experts and attorneys who are trained to rapidly resolve disputed claims and litigation.

To support these expert teams, these insurers also have access to unmatched claims litigation technology. In addition to helping insurers efficiently close claims and cases, this technology arms insurers with real-time analytics exposing the emerging litigation trends throughout Florida.

Additionally, the AOB crisis led these insurers to develop relationships with their insureds. Insurers marketing and claims teams have joined forces to inform homeowners about the perils of allowing public adjusters, water mitigation contractors, and attorneys take control of their claims. As Irma approached, these insurers used email, social media and even traditional media to warn insureds about potential scams. Thanks to these efforts, policyholders have a better chance of avoiding claims disputes created solely to enrich third parties.

With teams, technology, and connectivity typically reserved for national insurers, Florida homeowners insurers have the foundation to effectively navigate through this storm.

Savvy Entrepreneur Leadership

Companies with these strengths always have strong leadership in common. When the largest insurance companies fled the market out of fear, several savvy entrepreneurs were there to replace them. Unlike the national behemoth insurance companies mired by bureaucracy and management layers, these entrepreneurs are active leaders who innovate to preserve their businesses.

Evidence from the Stock Market

Wall Street is confident in the Florida homeowners insurance market. After sustaining a hurricane that covered the entire state, one would expect shares in Florida homeowners insurers to plummet. While these stocks did indeed drop leading up to Irma, Floridas publicly-traded homeowners insurers have nearly returned to their pre-hurricane values, and some are even higher post-Irma. At this early stage in the financial assessment of Irmas impact, there is no better market confidence indicator than stock value.

Florida Strong

After years of criticism, Floridas homeowners insurers have the opportunity to prove their strength and staying power. Led by some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the industry, Floridas homeowners insurers are about to pass one of the biggest tests any insurer has ever faced.
AKRON, Ohio - Three men and a woman are charged in a Saturday armed robbery in Akron's University Park neighborhood, police said.

No one was hurt in the hold-up that happened about 3:50 a.m. on Kirn Avenue near Power Street, according to a police report.

Richard L. Curley II, 30, of Akron; Christopher J. Morris, 25, of Akron; Hayden L. Fife, 23, of Whitehall, Ohio; and Porscha M. Daniels, 28, of Blacklick, Ohio, are each charged with two counts of aggravated robbery and one count of having weapons under disability in the incident, police said.

Daniels is also charged with one count of tampering with evidence because she is accused of hiding two guns in a getaway car, police said.

Investigators did not say why Fife and Daniels, who live east of Columbus in Franklin County, were in Akron.

A 24-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were out walking when two robbers pulled guns on them. Investigators later identified the robbers as Morris and Fife, police said.

The robbers took the woman's purse and the man's wallet and cellphone before they left in an old, silver Toyota, police said.

Akron police officers spotted the Toyota minutes later on East Thornton Street. The Toyota went through several stop signs before officers stopped it on East South Street at Washington Street, police said.

The officers found the four suspects in the Toyota, and Morris and Fife matched the victims' descriptions of the robbers, police said. Officers also found two loaded guns in the backseat, police said.

Curley's criminal history includes a 2005 conviction for aggravated robbery, and a Summit County grand jury indicted him on felony drug possession charges earlier this month, records show.

Fife was convicted in 2011 of felonious assault in Franklin County, court records show.

Summit and Franklin county court records do not show any prior felony cases involving Morris or Daniels.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
Investigators marked more than a dozen bullet holes on a Maple Heights house where two people were shot Sunday night.

MAPLE HEIGHTS, Ohio - A Maple Heights man and woman were hurt Sunday when gunmen fired more than a dozen shots at a house, police said.

No arrests have been made in the shooting that happened about 11:40 p.m. on Catherine Street near Raymond Street, police said.

The man and woman were taken to local hospitals for treatment, police said in a news release. A Maple Heights police spokesman did not not immediately respond to a request for an update on the victims' conditions.

Police did not specify if the man and woman were residents of the house.

Investigators placed more than a dozen evidence markers on bullet holes on the house. No one answered the door at the house Monday morning.

The case remains under investigation, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Maple Heights Police Department's detective bureau at 216-587-9624 or email detectives@mhpd-ohio.com.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
PARMA, Ohio - A Strongsville man avoided jail time when he pleaded guilty Monday in a crash that killed a 3-year-old girl in Broadview Heights.

Jordan C. Goughler, 41, pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide, a first-degree misdemeanor, Monday in Parma Municipal Court, his attorney Timothy J. Riley said.

Goughler was sentenced to 180 days in jail, but the sentence was suspended and he was placed on probation for one year. Goughler was also ordered to perform 100 hours of community service, and his driver's license is suspended for five years, Riley said.

Goughler apologized in court for the Aug. 14 crash that killed Janyia Thomas, Riley said.

"This is a terrible tragedy all around," Riley said. "My client has been remorseful from day one. He feels terrible about what happened."

Goughler was initially charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, a second-degree felony, in the crash. Riley said Goughler did not use alcohol or drugs before the crash, and was not driving recklessly.

The Broadview Heights city prosecutor's office did not immediately return a call seeking comment on the guilty plea and sentencing.

Goughler struck the 3-year-old girl while she and three other people were in an unmarked crosswalk on Ohio 82 at Taylor Avenue in Broadview Heights, according to a crash report.

Jaynia died after paramedics took her to the MetroHealth Brecksville Health and Surgery Center, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office said.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
FREMONT, Ohio -- Police have taken a 14-year-old boy into custody after a shooting Sunday left another 14-year-old boy dead, reports say.

The shooting occurred at about 5 p.m., the Fremont News-Messenger reports.

Emergency workers called to the scene found a 14-year-old male with a gunshot wound, WTVG Channel 13 reports. The teen died while being taken to a hospital.

A second 14-year-old has been charged with charged with involuntary manslaughter, tampering with evidence, burglary and obstructing official business. He is being held at the Sandusky County Juvenile Detention Center, according to WTVG.

The identities of the suspect and victim have not been released.

Fremont Police Chief Dean Bliss says investigators believe the shooting was an isolated incident and that there is no threat to the region.

The state Bureau of Criminal Investigation also is investigating, reports say.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio House could reinstate a freeze on Medicaid expansion enrollment, but a vote to override Gov. John Kasich's budget veto of the provision won't come at least until October, a spokesman for House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger said Monday.

Rosenberger recently sent a memo to House Republicans, giving them until 5 p.m. Sunday to indicate whether they would vote to override Kasich's veto. The freeze would go into effect July 1, 2018, and would make an exception for people receiving drug and alcohol addiction or mental illness treatment.

Brad Miller, a spokesman for Rosenberger, said he didn't know the tally of the informal vote and whether the override would be successful.

"I do know that it's not something that's going to be on the House calendar during this week's session," he said. "Then we have a couple weeks off. "

After this week, the House is not scheduled to meet again until Oct. 10.

Rosenberger told reporters last week that with Congress having failed to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, the freeze may be revitalized in Ohio.

More than 725,000 Ohioans have received Medicaid coverage since 2014, when the state expanded the coverage to the poor under Obamacare.

Kasich's administration has said over 500,000 Ohioans could lose coverage over 18 months.

The GOP governor's spokesman said in an email that Medicaid expansion has turned out to be an economic boon for Ohio, creating jobs with fast-growing wages.

"Smart, innovative management has allowed expansion to work for Ohio, giving low-income Ohioans the coverage they need so they can stay on the job and have the opportunity to meet their potential," said the spokesman, Jon Keeling.

Rosenberger has previously said the freeze is necessary to save Ohio money - a point the Kasich administration disagrees with.

Sixty votes are required in the 99-member House for a veto override. If the House successful, it would head to the Senate.
The mock-up renderings reviewed earlier in 2017 by the Commission of Fine Arts and Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee for a 2017 American Eagle palladium bullion coin exhibit designs mandated under the authorizing legislation.

Starting Sept. 25, the U.S. Mint will be issuing its first American Eagle bullion coin struck in .9995 fine palladium.

The first American Eagle palladium bullion coins will be offered for sale Sept. 25 by the U.S. Mint to its authorized purchasers.

The number of 1-ounce .9995 palladium $25 face value coins offered will be limited, but that limit is not yet disclosed. No additional coins will be struck once the inaugural mintage of the 2017 coins is sold. The U.S. Mint will sell the American Eagle palladium bullion coins to the authorized purchasers on an allocation basis. The coins will be sold to the authorized purchasers at a 6.25 percent premium over the prevailing price of palladium.

Did you buy a winner or a loser from the U.S. Mint? Also in this weeks print issue of Coin World, we not only learn more about rare coins, but collectible rare cars as well.

The Mint does not sell its bullion coins directly to the public, but instead sells the coins to its network of authorized purchasers, or approved buyers, for the closing London PM spot price of the metal per troy ounce plus a small premium. The coins are then made available to other customers  such as collectors, dealers and investors  for a small markup.

According to Acting Principal Deputy Mint Director David Motl, the palladium bullion coins will be struck at the Philadelphia Mint and, like all American Eagle bullion coins, will not exhibit the Mint mark of the production facility where the coins are struck.

A Proof version of the coin will be offered in 2018. It will be struck at the West Point Mint and bear the W Mint mark. It will have same designs as the 2017 bullion version.

The palladium coins were authorized under provisions of Public Law 111-303, the American Eagle Palladium Bullion Coin Act of 2010, which calls for production of a 1-ounce .9995 fine palladium coin with a $25 face value. The coin is an extension of the American Eagle bullion coin program.

Connect with Coin World:

Sign up for our free eNewsletter

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

The legislation mandates the obverse design be a high-relief version of sculptor Adolph A. Weinmans Winged Liberty Head design for the dime struck in 1916. The reverse is mandated to be a high-relief version of the Eagle design Weinman rendered in 1906 for the reverse of the American Institute of Architects gold medal first presented in 1907.

At first glance, collectors examining the coin's obverse may be confused believing they are seeing the W Mint mark of the West Point Mint even though the coins are being struck at the Philadelphia Mint and without Mint mark. What appears in the field up and right of the date is the monogram featuring the designer's AW initials of Weinman.

The planchets for the palladium bullion coins are being provided by PAMP. The enabling act requires the purchase of palladium mined from natural deposits in the United States, or in a territory or possession of the United States ... 

If such domestically mined palladium is not available or it is economically unfeasible to obtain such metal, the Treasury secretary has the authority to seek palladium elsewhere.

The only domestic mining concern within the confines of the United States, its territories or possessions yielding palladium is the Stillwater Mining Company.

The company conducts mining operations at the Stillwater Mine near Nye, Montana, and at the East Boulder Mine near Big Timber, Montana.

On May 4, 2017, South Africa-based Sibanye Gold Limited completed the 100 percent acquisition of Stillwater Mining Company for $2.2 billion. On Aug. 30, Sibanye Gold Limited was renamed and registered as Sibanye-Stillwater Limited (Sibanye-Stillwater).

For additional information on Sibanye-Stillwater, visit www.sibanyegold.co.za.
More than 1 million penguins call the Falkland Islands home.



The final of four coins from the Falkland Islands in a 2017 program honoring these aquatic birds is now available from the Pobjoy Mint.



The Magellanic penguin is the fourth subject of the four-coin Indigenous Penguins set, showing the birds in color on 50-pence pieces.



The reverse of the new coin features an adult Magellanic penguin swimming out to sea with its head breaking the surface.



Connect with Coin World:

Sign up for our free eNewsletter

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

The obverse features the exclusive Pobjoy Mint effigy design of Queen Elizabeth II.



The Magellanic penguin, or Spheniscus magellanicus, named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, is a penguin indigenous to the Falkland Islands, where individuals nest in dense flocks.





How can collectors determine a coins value when price guides assign it different values? Also in this weeks print issue, we learn of the first report of a 2017 doubled die variety, found on a Lincoln cent.

In appearance, they are similar to a Humboldt penguin, with black bodies, white abdomens and with two black bands between the head and the chest. Their heads are black with a white stripe running across their eyebrows. In the wild, these penguins can live to around 25 years.



Magellanic penguins are monogamous, remaining faithful to one partner throughout their life. Similarly to other penguins, Magellanic penguins take turns with their mates to incubate their eggs while the other swims out to sea to feed.



As fish populations have become further and further from penguin nesting grounds, partners are starving before they can reunite. This, in addition to other environmental issues such as oil spills, has resulted in a decline of about 20 percent in 20 years within some colonies and these penguins are now considered near threatened.



The Magellanic Penguin coin weighs 8 grams and measures 27.30 millimeters in diameter. It has a mintage limit of 7,500 pieces and retails for $11.95.



A colorful folder that can hold all four coins in the series is available for $7.



To order the coins, or for more information, visit the Pobjoy Mint website.


SOUTH GLENGARRY, Ontario  A fire completely destroyed a home located at 18600 Paragon Rd. on the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 15, 2017.

Dave Robertson, Acting Fire Chief for South Glengarry said that the home was a complete loss. The fire began in the afternoon on Friday,and a dark plume of smoke could be seen coming from the home as far away as the Nav Centre in Cornwall.

No cause has been determined yet, he said. An investigation is on going.

The fire has displaced a family of four, but they were not home at the time of the blaze and no injuries resulted from the fire.

Acting Chief Robertson explained that the South Glengarry Fire Service had resources from four fire stations arrived on the scene to fight the blaze, and that the fire was under control within an hour.
Tesla has "summon car" as a default feature on all its new models. True to their brand, they are catering to customers who would rather spend $70,000 than walk 70 feet. Users simply press a button on the key fob, and their car comes creeping toward them like a shameful dog. Of course, the feature is currently limited to a 40-foot range, and cars seem to only move forward or backward (no turns), but Tesla's engineers are hard at work on AI that can improve on this. But then, according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, continuing AI research will eventually be the end of all humanity . Presumably there will be a brief window between now and then that'll be pretty cool, though.

4 You'll Never Step In Another Puddle Again

Until the day we completely ruin this planet, water will fall from the sky. So for the next three or four years, it seems we're stuck living with stupid puddles. Or ... are we?

Concrete engineers have developed a porous substance called Topmix Permeable, which can support heavy traffic, yet contains tiny holes that allow water to pass right through it. You can dump a thousand gallons on a tiny patch of sidewalk, and it will all soak into the pavement in less than 60 seconds, leaving not even the smallest puddle.
Networking News

Aruba Has Eye On Cisco As It Launches 360 Security Fabric, Touting 'Openness' As Key Differentiator

Mark Haranas

Share this

Aruba is entering a new era with the launch of a security fabric filled with analytics, networking and Internet of Things technologies as it looks to turn up the heat on Cisco Systems.

The Aruba 360 Secure Fabric provides an analytics-driven attack detection and response offering to reduce threats with an open approach unmatched in the market today, said Larry Lunetta, vice president of security solutions marketing at Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company.

The centerpiece of the fabric is Aruba's new network-agnostic IntroSpect UEBA (User and Entity Behavioral Analytics) offering, which integrates with Aruba ClearPass to enable policy-based attack response. ClearPass is the vendor's flagship network access control and secure policy management product.

"If you get under the covers with some of the Cisco security solutions, if you dont have their technology it doesn't work. That's not the case with ClearPass and IntroSpect and how they operate. This is a very open fabric. Openness is big for Aruba," said Lunetta in an interview with CRN. "We are doubling down on security. This is a strategic initiative at the highest level."

Lunetta said a vital part of the 360 Secure Fabric is that customers can start anywhere. "We can start with Aruba infrastructure or if a customer doesn't have Aruba infrastructure, ClearPass and IntroSpect work just fine," he said. "The solutions work with other products and other vendors.  Clearly, the pieces together, the fabric together, adds tremendous value, but individually there's also a lot of value as well."

Aruba's IntroSpect UEBA offering was gained from HPE's acquisition of security analytics software provider Niara earlier this year. The software continuously monitors for attacks and includes a new entry-level model that uses machine learning to spot changes in device behavior that indicate attacks have evaded traditional security defenses.

Justin Tibbs, chief security officer at Draper, Utah-based Red Sky, an Aruba partner ranked No. 278 on the 2017 CRN Solution Provider 500 list, said the new fabric leverages Aruba security technology like never before.

"Aruba already had a lot of security built into their products but never really leveraged it. Bringing in something like IntroSpect to continuously monitor and use machine-learning scenarios to spot the anomalies makes perfect sense," said Tibbs. "They're investing quite a lot here around security, and the money is in security right now."

As part of the 360 Secure Fabric, Aruba is injecting ClearPass and IntroSpect into the foundation of all of the vendor's Wi-Fi access points, wireless controllers and switches, including the new Aruba 8400 Core Switch Series.

"We've had these technologies that make devices secure and the traffic secure for a while, but we've now opened them up so the analytics can leverage this infrastructure more productively," said Lunetta.

The Sunnyvale, Calif.-based network vendor also launched the Aruba 360 Security Exchange, which combines the partners and technical resources from the new IntroSpect Technology Partner Program and the Aruba ClearPass Exchange partner program.

There are more than 100 security and infrastructure offerings partners can leverage for verified interoperability and quick deployment with vendors such as Palo Alto Networks, Citrix Systems, Fortinet, IBM, McAfee and SAP, to name a few.

"Secure Exchange is the most powerful piece for us and for our customers," said Red Sky's Tibbs. "When a vendor says, 'We're actually going to create a platform that lets others integrate into our technology so we can use a bi-directional feed from their technology into ours and vice versa' -- that's pretty powerful and compelling for partners."

Tibbs said Red Sky has many customers that use Palo Alto Networks.

"So Palo Alto [Networks], for example, the ability to integrate those solutions into Aruba's 360 Secure Fabric means we dont have point products that are just sitting out there. We have solutions that are working with each other to provide security posture," said Tibbs.

Aruba ClearPass also is being revamped through IntroSpect integration, with an eye on the IoT market.

"ClearPass can now deliver device information at a much more detailed level, and that includes IoT things. So now we can look at groups of devices, such as Dropcams or heart monitors or anything like that, and understand if any one of those elements is behaving differently than the rest," said Aruba's Lunetta. "So it opens up an exciting set of use cases for IoT for the fabric that partners can chase.  We're now seeing IoT-oriented [proofs of concept] with large customers based on the capabilities with IntroSpect."

Tibbs said ClearPass competes in the network access control market against Cisco's Identity Services Engine (ISE) offering. He said the revamped ClearPass with new analytics and interoperability capabilities will help win deals against Cisco.

"So if a customer is already using a Palo Alto [Networks offering] and they have a [Cisco] ISE infrastructure or are looking at ISE, we can talk a lot deeper and provide a lot more value now with this Secure Fabric than we could in the past," said Tibbs, who is a former Cisco Network Security Engineer. "Cisco's a massive beast; they're always going to be there. The Secure Fabric does give us a little more beef to go in and talk a better solution, a better integration story."

According to Tibbs, Aruba is now saying, "We have our fabric, but we know we can't do this by ourselves. So we're going to integrate it into these partners that our customers are also using. That's a powerful statement, in my opinion."

To get partners and customers quickly up and running on IntroSpect, Aruba has introduced IntroSpect Standard -- a simple way for customers to start deploying UEBA machine-learning protection. It is designed for basic monitoring and kill chain forensics to detect anomalous and subtle behaviors that can indicate attack expansion and beaconing, as well as data exfiltration.

IntroSpect Standard can be implemented with as few as three data sources, accelerating an organization's time-to-protect, said Lunetta. It ingests common data sources including Microsoft Active Directory and firewall logs from sources such as Check Point, Palo Alto Networks or Aruba monitoring logs from controllers or IntroSpect packet processors.

Customers who deploy IntroSpect Standard can then easily upgrade to IntroSpect Advanced, which delivers a wider set of security capabilities to provide attack detection from a broader array of data sources, as well as incident investigation, threat-hunting, search and deep forensics.

Bill Buckalew, vice president of partner development for Optiv Security, a Denver-based Aruba partner that is ranked No. 27 on CRN's 2017 Solution Provider 500 list, has seen multiple IntroSpect demos.

"One of the things I like about it is how a device is able to be fingerprinted and its behavior mapped. Additionally, you can map its behavior to a device, like a camera, and make decisions on whatever behavior it should be exhibiting versus the behavior it is exhibiting," said Buckalew. "So if at 3 a.m., a whole bunch of traffic starts coming from a camera in a closet, that's probably bad."

Buckalew said Aruba's 360 Fabric is a holistic platform that could help customers cut the amount of security vendors needed inside their IT environment.

"There's a lot of really bad stuff that can happen in security, and we only have [a certain number of] people. When you have multiple systems, it takes a lot of time to be experts on multiple systems. So boiling that down to systems that do more, and can take data sources and feeds and control other aspects -- it only makes sense," said Buckalew.

The Aruba IntroSpect Standard and Advanced models are available now in North America, with global availability planned for 2018.

"This is not just a product initiative, it's a strategic initiative for Aruba to really have a much more dominant presence in security and take advantage of the unique position we have at the intersection of connectivity, intelligent insight and control," said Lunetta.
Networking News

John Chambers Will Not Seek Re-Election To Cisco Board In December, Passing The Chairman Baton To CEO Robbins

Mark Haranas

Share this

After 26 years of building the most powerful networking company in world, Cisco Systems chairman and former longtime CEO John Chambers will no longer have a role inside the vendor as he will not seek re-election to the board of directors in December.

"It is time for Cisco to move on to its next generation of leadership, including at the board and chairman level," wrote Chambers in an email to Cisco's board of directors. "I cannot be prouder of what we built: from the culture, to the customer trust, to the country digitization, to the product leadership, I could go on and on. But it is the right time for a change to occur for me and for the company."

When Chambers' term expires Dec. 11, the board plans to appoint CEO Chuck Robbins as chairman.

[Related: CRN Exclusive: 'Clarity' Comes To Cisco's Cloud Strategy With New Hybrid Cloud Blueprint For Partners]

"John's brilliant mind, compassion and charismatic leadership have helped shape Cisco for over 20 years, and for that we are all grateful," said Robbins in a statement. "John's influence on the industry is immense and he built Cisco around a culture of integrity and innovation that will continue to serve our employees, partners and customers for decades to come. I have no doubt he will continue to have a lasting impact with his future endeavors."

Chambers served as CEO for the San Jose, Calif.-based networking giant from January 1995 to July 26, 2015. He joined the company in 1991 as head of sales, and has been a member of the board since 1993.

As CEO, Chambers grew the company from a $1.2 billion business to $47 billion in fiscal year 2015.

"Every transition we have gone through at Cisco has been a world-class example of transparency and execution. That has also been true over the last two years over our transition of the CEO position from me to Chuck," said Chambers. "Cisco will always be in my heart and mind and I will always challenge us to lead, to disrupt or be disrupted, catch the key market transitions, and to move aggressively and fearlessly into this new digital world."

Cisco said Chambers is set to be given the honorary title of Chairman Emeritus.

Chambers has been keeping himself busy and involved with Cisco since stepping down as CEO. Over the past two years, he has worked as Cisco's executive sponsor for security, traveling around the globe to talk with world leaders. He also has invested in several vendors including drone software startup Airware and cybersecurity startup Pindrop Security.
Sizing Up The Midmarket

More so than company size or revenue figures, Gartner believes the shared challenges, business priorities and skill gaps faced by midsize enterprise IT departments are what best illustrate the unique economic and managerial environments they face.

Gartner research director Mike Cisek explained as much Sunday at the Midsize Enterprise Summit, a conference hosted by CRN parent The Channel Company this week in San Antonio. Midmarket organizations need to consider alternative approaches to infrastructure, applications, security, networking and operations as they deal with budget and staffing limitations, he said.

"You can't build it internally," Gartner told a room of 200-plus IT leaders. "You're not going to staff for it. You're not going to build the tools, the SOC and the NOC. You can solve the problem. But you have to do it a different way."

Citing the research firm's extensive analysis, Cisek highlighted five trends that midsize enterprise decision-makers should consider when trying to overcome these marketwide hurdles.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Fire crews battled a flat blaze believed to have been caused by a cigarette in Purley last night (Sunday).

Purley and Wallington firefighters were called to Brighton Road near the junction to Sydney Avenue at about 8.30pm on Sunday evening to the blaze.

Twelve people had evacuated the semi-detached three floor building, which had been converted into small flats, before crews arrived after the fire alarm started going off, said watch manager Ian Day.

Watch manager Day, on Purley fire station's red watch, said about 25% of a first floor flat, with two rooms, had been damaged by the blaze.

"There was quite heavy smoke in the room itself but the door was closed and the residents and staff reacted well to the alarm and evacuated well," he said.

He added the cause was thought to be started by a cigarette being disposed of in the bedroom.

Crews put the blaze out within about ten minutes using a hose reel, breathing apparatus and thermal imaging cameras, and left the scene at 9.35pm.

No one was injured in the fire.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Police in Croydon resorted to using force more frequently than in nearly every other London borough between April and June, new figures released by the Metropolitan Police reveal.

Officers in the borough used force 614 times in this three-month period, with the definition of using force including taking hold of someones arm, handcuffing a person who appears compliant, deploying a police dog, using a baton, CS spray (tear gas), Taser or a firearm.

The only boroughs with more cases of force being used in this period were Westminster, with 965 incidents, and Lambeth, with 734.

As for neighbouring boroughs, force was used 490 times in Sutton, 369 times in Bromley and on 201 occasions in Merton.

The most serious of the incidents in Croydon included 11 where an officer sprayed tear gas, six where an officer aimed a firearm at a suspect and two where a baton was used.

Tasers were also fired by officers in the borough four times, and a police dog was deployed once.

Handcuffing accounted for the majority of the incidents, with 238 incidents involving compliant handcuffing and 190 occurrences of non-compliant cuffing.

Most Croydon incidents were against men aged between 18 and 34, and breaking the data down further 40% of people were white, 46% black and 7% from the Asian community, and 11% of people were believed to have mental health issues.

Officers used force against a child who was aged eight or under on one occasion, as well as on seven pensioners  six men and one woman.

The Croydon figures, obtained by a Freedom of Information request by The Advertiser, additionally show that disabled people were on the receiving end of force 74 times  it was used 69 times on those with a mental disability and five times on people with one or more physical disabilities.

Shadow home secretary Diane Abbot called the figures deeply troubling, citing the fact that black people, who only account for around 13% of Londons population, were on the receiving end of 36% of uses of force London-wide and 46% of uses in Croydon.

Commander Matt Twist, head of response for the Met, said using force can be safer for officers, suspects and members of the public in certain cases.

He said: Our officers face the most dangerous situations every day. It is important we give them the right training and equipment to do the job.

Use of force techniques are there to stop violence and danger, protecting not only the officer making an arrest but also the public at the scene, and the person being arrested.

Mr Twist, who is the National Police Chiefs Council spokesman on restraint and self-defence, cited the fact that on 643 occasions during the three-month period, officers were injured while on duty.

Of these officers, 33 were working in Croydon  with one sustaining a severe injury.

The London-wide figures were released after the Met set up a new way of recording use of force incidents on April 1 in a bid for the force to be more transparent to the public.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

A major scene in the new Michael Keaton thriller American Assassin was filmed in Croydon, with a large area of the town centre transformed into a Turkish quarter.

The big-budget movie was based in Croydon for a week last year after FilmFixer, which is contracted by Croydon Council to manage filming in the borough, impressed the film's producers.

Croydon, Kingston, Southwark and Islington were all used as locations for the Hollywood movie which was released last week.

Croydon played the biggest part, with the whole of St Georges Walk transformed into an Istanbul quarter with actor Dylan O'Brien - best known for appearing in the Maze Runner films - taking part in the shoot in the borough.

This involved every single shop in St George's Walk being bought up for a week for the elaborate sets and hundreds Turkish speaking extras being brought in.

(Image: Kelly Jones)

FilmFixer director Andrew Pavord said: For the duration, St Georges Walk was transformed into shisha shops and Turkish restaurants, populated by 200 Turkish speakers, all in costume, serving real food and smoking real pipes.

"The smells and sounds were completely authentic.

(Image: Kelly Jones)

The production moved in on August 22 last year, and set up the area ready for filming from September 13 through to September 16.

They established an atmospheric Turkish restaurant on the corner of St George's Walk, and the entire parade of shops along St Georges Walk was dressed as an area of Istanbul.

"Pictures vehicles, or cars that appear in the film, lined St Georges Walk to make it look like a busy street.

Dylan OBrien walks through the bustle into the restaurant. Then the scene unfolds into an elaborate chase, with special operatives hoofing after him."

(Image: Christopher Polk/Getty Images)

As part of the shoot the production team brought in five film students, all but one from Croydon College, for a week of work experience.

Among them was Croydon teenager Amy Jones, who had previously landed a placement on the filming of Kevin Costner's Criminal in 2014.

Amy, who is studying film at Reading College, was offered work experience on American Assassin after she met the location manager while she was working in a Croydon cafe.

Amy was able to build on the experience of two years before and take on some more responsibility.

"It was really amazing to work in a place I know so well as a Croydon backstreet being transformed into bustling Istanbul," she said.

"It felt like a whole village was built in the middle of my hometown.

(Image: Kelly Jones)

"I was helping to block off roads and talk to residents to explain why they couldn't walk through. I was changing bins as well, which isnt very glamorous but it has to be done.

I really hope that because it was a big scale set and I was doing lots of different things, that it will show just what Im capable of and help me get work in the business when I finish my course."

After the shoot Amy added: "It gave the explosions even more impact when we filmed them, because it felt so real there.

"And of course, living in the times we do in London, we had to work hard to reassure everyone in the area that this was just for a movie.

(Image: Kelly Jones)

I did end up standing about two metres away from Dylan O'Brien at one point. That was exciting.

"Otherwise, I was helping to sort the green room for the actors, laying the carpet, getting in drinks and making sure everyone was happy.

"Aside from the director I heard only English accents on that shoot, so it's reassuring to think that I'd be able to work on big budget movies when I graduate without having to move to LA or somewhere.

"Having had the hands-on experience, I found afterwards that I was much more confident with my college work. When I was writing about the process it was with some real experience of it."

Mr Pavord added: We were happy that Croydon was able to meet this extensive location brief.

I cant overstate the value [for the people given work experience] of real Hollywood-style hands on experience, right on the corner, pretty much, of your own film college.

"Seeing the cameras used, seeing how a set is run, watching all the different moving parts in action is the kind of thing that really helps when it comes to looking for paid work in the industry.

You'll catch glimpses of the scenes filmed in Croydon in this trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlVY7jwW7_M
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The somewhat unusual numbers for August home sales in Greenwich depict a change in the towns housing market that seems to have taken a pause while Hartford sorts out the state budget, according to several Greenwich Realtors.

The more than 50 home sales tracked in Greenwich last month by Mark Pruner of Berkshire Hathaway N.E. Properties ranks slightly below the 10-year average for August, he said. Yet the number of high-end sales shows that the upper end of the towns housing market is making a comeback, according to Bryan Tunney of Sothebys International Realty in Greenwich. August has more high-end sales, and buyers are starting to see value again in backcountry, Tunney said.

The assortment of home sales across price categories registers as abnormal given how many homes sold for more than $5 million while the middle of Greenwichs market slowed down. Its a mixed bag, Pruner said. The over-$5 million category is doing significantly better than last year but the heart of our market between $1 million and $3 million is down.

The increase in home sales at Greenwichs upper end could be attributed to how Wall Streeters pay has changed since the 2008 recession, Pruner said. Were seeing a shift of high-end sales to the August, September, October period as Wall Street has restructured, he said.

According to a Hearst Connecticut Media analysis of property sales filed at Greenwich Town Hall, August home sales included one that edged above $13 million in midcountry as well as a handful of sales for prices between $5 and $10 million spread out between Belle Haven, Old Greenwich and midcountry.

Theres been more activity later in the year for the last year or two, Tunney said, adding buyers are taking longer to choose a home. He attributes the lengthened process to buyers wanting to make sure they see all possible options and trying to save money for larger down payments.

Already in the early weeks of September, a $22 million sale in midcountry and several pending contracts for more than $20 million have added to optimism for Greenwichs high-end market. Part of the uptick in pricey real estate sales is due to sellers taking significant haircuts on prices, Pruner said in his real estate report.

At the less pricey end of Greenwichs market, demand is far outpacing supply, according to Pruner. For homes listed at $600,000 and below, they go off the market as fast as they come on, he wrote in his report, adding the price range has become so competitive its almost disappeared with only one home currently on the market for less than $600,000. In August, one home thats located in Pemberwick sold within that range, according to town records.

Moving into the middle of Greenwichs market, the drop in sales is difficult to explain, though both Pruner and Tunney offered one potential reason: Connecticuts lack of a state budget.

That certainly doesnt help and may explain the slowdown in mid-market, Pruner said.

Similar to the way Greenwich home sales dropped dramatically leading up to last years presidential election, political uncertainty at the state level may be prompting people to hold off on making a big financial investment, Tunney said. Whenever theres uncertainty, it stalls decisions, he said. And whatever happens with the state budget, all that really matters to the towns housing market is that one gets passed, he added.

People are just waiting to pull the trigger until the uncertainty is removed, Pruner said. Uncertainty always seems to hurt sales more than the actual reality even if reality isnt necessarily favorable.

A state budget perceived as unfavorable toward businesses and homeowners wont encourage sales but just the removal of uncertainty will, Pruner said.

Contact the writer at mbennett@greenwichtime.com; Twitter @Macaela_
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 ...
Pa. Dems could flip the House of Reps. Here's what that might mean
Chancellor Philip Hammond (pictured) is said to be considering slashing tuition fees

There must have been a sudden chill in the air at the breakfast tables of the nations university vice-chancellors yesterday.

Or there would have been among those who had read yesterdays front page headline, which declared: Chancellor set to slash tuition fees by 5,000.

Apparently, Philip Hammond is considering a reduction in the allowable annual charge for tuition from 9,250 to 7,500 a year.

There are a number of reasons the Chancellor might be hatching such a scheme, but one is certainly a response to the way the pay of vice-chancellors has soared out of all proportion to any improvements they have presided over.

Last week, the Guardian published a survey which showed that in the five years since the Conservative/Liberal Democrat Coalition government allowed a tripling in tuition fees, 44 universities increased their vice-chancellors pay by more than 20 per cent.

On average across the sector, their pay went up by 15 per cent, at a time when academic salaries as a whole had actually fallen in real terms.

The fact that their bosses are now pulling in remuneration, on average, of well over 250,000 a year, is hardly a recipe for harmony on the campus (but then senior common rooms have always been cauldrons of bitterness and discontent).

Actually, the soaring pay of the vice-chancellors is the least of the problems.

It is not the hundreds of thousands they are paid that should most concern the Government, but the fact that the whole system increasingly resembles a Ponzi scheme, in which ever more students take on ever greater debts to the state which will never be recovered, because they will never earn enough to trigger the obligation to repay in full  or even in part.

At the last election, Jeremy Corbyn won many of such students votes by suggesting that a Labour government would find a way to write off all those debts.

That would cost about 100 billion  and Corbyn was rightly criticised for not offering the slightest hint about how such a vast sum (more than the countrys credit card debt) could be found.

But since the widely respected Institute for Fiscal Studies has concluded that three-quarters of students will never pay off their tuition fee loans, it is clear that this is a fiscal disaster waiting to happen, regardless of which party is in power.

This, in turn, emphasises the most important  and tragic  point: that many of these so-called degrees are worthless in terms of getting young people into the sort of jobs to which they aspire, and which would generate the level of incomes that would enable them to repay their tuition debts in full.

Sadly, this is completely unsurprising, since the crazy objective of the Blair government to get 50 per cent of young people into universities has been achieved only by said universities admitting in their thousands those who, to put it politely, are ill-suited to the groves of academe.

Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi (pictured) studied at the University of Salford, despite one tutor describing him as 'very slow, uneducated'

Two years ago, a survey showed that almost 3,700 students had been admitted to universities across the country with qualifications equivalent to three Es at A-level  or worse.

A grotesque example was provided by the suicide bomber Salman Abedi, the 22-year-old whose nail-bomb murdered and mutilated so many Ariana Grande fans at the Manchester Arena in May.

Abedi had for two years been a student at the University of Salford, a quite distinguished seat of learning whose Chancellor for almost a quarter of century was Prince Philip.

Yet previously Abedi had been on a course designed for people who are exceptionally low level, and a tutor had described him as very slow, uneducated.

Yet this evidently lazy misfit had been given almost 15,000 by the state-funded Student Loans Company to help fund his degree at Salford University.

Still, he must have been good with his hands to have built his foul weapon: and there are doubtless thousands of others  though unlike Abedi, good and kind young people  who would be better off going into apprenticeships for trades rather than the professions.

This is not snobbery: I regard journalism as a trade, since what we do requires no academic or professional qualifications.

Abedi had for two years been a student at the University of Salford (pictured), a quite distinguished seat of learning whose Chancellor for almost a quarter of century was Prince Philip

But if we are going to continue to allow such a high proportion of the nations youth into degree courses, the cost  ultimately guaranteed by us as taxpayers  must come down.

As the former head of Eastbourne College observed last week, given the scant contact time that students get with their professors, their tuition at 9,000 a year works out at about 30 an hour: At the independent school where I was head, if we had charged 30 an hour, annual fees would have been more than 60,000.

Heres my suggestion: let the great majority of courses follow the teaching format of Buckingham University, which in 1983 became the first private sector university in the UK (so it takes no state subsidies, via the Higher Education Funding Council, or otherwise).

Buckinghams degree courses are completed in two years, not three, with annual holidays of 13 weeks, rather than the public sectors 22 weeks.

As its prospectus notes: This means less debt, more focus.

And students there certainly appreciate it. Last year, Buckingham ranked first in the UK for student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide.

Perhaps not surprisingly, Buckinghams own vice-chancellor, Sir Anthony Seldon, has some choice words for his peers in the public sector, as their pay spiralled on the back of the tripling of tuition fees.

Seldon accuses them of having failed in their moral responsibility: Vice-chancellors have lost sight of how badly this reflects on universities in the eyes of the public. We have not shown the collective leadership nor the individual leadership we should have done.

I bet their own pay wont come down even if Philip Hammond does cut the amount universities can charge. But at least such action would benefit both students and taxpayers.

Nail bars not always as innocent as they look

If you live in London  or indeed any British city  you will have noticed the confetti-like spread of nail bars.

At one level, they bring more colour to our lives  or at least to the nails of our wives and girlfriends.

But, as Britains anti-slavery commissioner Kevin Hyland revealed, many  not all, of course  are also suspected as being centres of employment for Vietnamese girls who have been trafficked here and kept in conditions amounting to slavery.

Some of these nail bars are also, as he points out, thought to be used for laundering money from cannabis farms in this country  which seem to be run, to a remarkable extent, by Vietnamese as well.

This might explain why so many of these nailbars wont take credit cards, only cash. Not traceable, you see. I had known about the concerns regarding the trafficking of Vietnamese women, but the cannabis angle was new to me.

So I spoke to a former Home Office official, who, like Hyland, had also been a senior police officer.

He confirmed it: Yes, many of these nailbars are money-laundering the proceeds from hydroponic cannabis farms, which are very often run by Vietnamese. And he amazed me by adding: When you and I were young, all the cannabis in this country was imported. Now its all home-grown, and this country is a net exporter of the drug.

Its difficult to imagine nail bars as centres of organised crime: they seem so harmless and innocent. Which is perhaps one reason why the dodgy ones get away with it.
Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has admitted the cancellation of flights due to pilot holidays is 'a mess'

The sight of Ryanairs egotistical chief executive, Michael OLeary, waving his arms around and admitting the cancellation of up to 55 flights a day for six weeks is clearly a mess will not reassure passengers.

As many as 400,000 people are likely to be affected, their autumn breaks, business trips or visits to family overseas thrown into chaos because Ryanair has spectacularly mismanaged its pilot and crew rotas.

Its an appalling state of affairs for travellers who booked in good faith and have a perfect right to expect their flights to take off on the day they were advertised.

Yet perhaps, after years of problems with airlines, none of this should come as much of a surprise.

Chaotic

Yes, no-frills carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet have delivered flights at prices consumers could once only have dreamed of.

But in doing so, the airlines seem to have given up on any pretence of politeness and customer service, finding ever more devious ways to make money from luggage, hand baggage, food and drink.

The plane operators are only too happy to take our bank details, charge us for the privilege even of using credit cards, and then make it as difficult as possible to get our money back when the flights are cancelled, never mind actually pay compensation when flights are badly delayed.

Ryanair has, of course, long been loathed by many flyers who hate its extra charges for every last thing, and a corporate attitude that too often seems to treat customers as little more than irritating cash cows.

Ryanair will drop 40-50 flights a day over the next six weeks, leaving passengers stranded or out of pocket

This scandalous mass cancellation of flights comes on top of worsening punctuality, with Ryanair admitting its record has dropped to below 70 per cent.

At least yesterday Michael OLeary had the good grace  or, at least, the PR savvy  to get in front of television cameras and apologise for the bedlam over his carriers cancelled flights.

Yes, he admitted to the reputational damage caused, but many will say his airline didnt have much of a reputation to lose.

When British Airways suffered its own public relations disaster back in May, the boss didnt even deign to appear in public.

No one involved will easily forget the shambolic events at Heathrow over the Whitsun bank holiday, when an IT meltdown left 75,000 passengers stranded at the airport, struggling with children, piles of luggage and a virtual news blackout.

The airlines Spanish chief executive, Alex Cruz, was nowhere to be seen because he was allegedly taking personal charge of sorting out the computer meltdown.

His failure to offer heartfelt apologies, and the increasing remoteness of Willie Walsh, boss of the airlines parent company, only added to customers anger.

The explanation which emerged from BA, after one of the most embarrassing computer fiascos of recent times, was that human error has to blame.

An engineer from an outside contractor was said to have disconnected the power supply, and the surge which followed the reconnection blew out the whole system.

British Airways promised a full independent investigation to find out the facts and make sure the same disaster doesnt happen again.

The probe has now been completed, but BAs customers, ground staff, air crews and shareholders have no means of knowing the nitty-gritty detail of what happened.

The very least that could have been expected was publication of the report (leaving out sensitive commercial details), but so far there have been no full explanations, and compensation has been agonisingly slow.

Coming as it did on the back of a series of service reductions, the suspicion has always been that the IT meltdown was the consequence of cost-cutting. That would certainly ring true for the British Airways customers who have seen traditional free meals on short-haul flights replaced with Marks & Spencer sandwiches for which they have to pay.

Which brings us back to airlines obsession with chasing profits.

Ryanair suddenly removed 160 scheduled services to destinations across Europe on Fridays furious (stock photo)

They will all argue that the use of advanced IT systems for making reservations, checking baggage allowances and the costs of add-ons has made life simpler for passengers. But nothing could be further from the truth  its all about the bottom line.

By shifting responsibility for reservations from airlines and travel agents to passengers, the airlines have been able to make huge cost savings and, in doing so, boost their profits and dividends.

(For Michael OLeary, who owns just under 4 per cent of the shares in Ryanair, Europes largest carrier, that is money in his pocket.)

Meltdown

So is anyone able to crack down on the shoddiest practices that can make flying such a woeful experience, and ensure that there really are consequences for failure?

As private companies quoted on the stock market, the ultimate sanction for airlines is that dissatisfied customers vote with their feet, sales and profits plummet, and carriers find themselves in serious difficulty.

Ryanair chief marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said the company will 'continue to send regular updates' to passengers

But there are also regulations imposed by Brussels  which sets the terms of passenger compensation  and from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK. Ryanair and Michael OLeary are smart enough to have designed their flight cancellations in order to have minimised their liability to compensate passengers under those EU rules.

But even if there is an open-and-shut case for refunds or compensation, passengers must go through a laborious online or telephone process to get back their money.

This requires infinite patience and simply piles on the blood-boiling inconvenience that starts when a flight is delayed or cancelled.

Shambolic

When Ryanair passengers seek compensation, they are first directed to re-booking, presumably in the hope that they are still willing to give the airline their money. Finding the compensation terms and signing up requires navigating through to the small print.

Its this kind of corporate behaviour that adds fuel to Labours misguided calls for state ownership of public utilities, such as the railways.

Weak regulators and political indifference among the Tories have also allowed the idea to take root. But nationalisation will never work because pressure on public finances will always lead to under-investment.

It has long been my view that the highly trained former RAF engineers and pilots in charge of air safety at the Civil Aviation Authority do a fine job in keeping passengers secure. But the CAAs economic regulation of airlines is all but invisible.

The very least citizens could have expected after the May breakdown of systems at BA is a review by the regulator and some heavy fines for BAs failure to fulfil the flying schedules promised.

As for Ryanair, Michael OLeary and his cohorts should be forced to pay a heavy price for this shambles, cough up refunds without delay and be punished by the appropriate authorities for a catastrophic service breakdown.

Perhaps then theyll remember that their customers are not merely there to be squeezed for every last penny.
A self-described 'queer, kinky, cancer warrior' says she wishes someone would've told her more that black is beautiful - so now, she wants to be that someone to others like herself.

Ericka Hart, 31, was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer at 28 in 2014, and said she realized then that doctors had no idea how to deal with queer, black, cancer patients; they assumed she was straight and that she didn't have enough money to cover certain treatments.

So, after having a double mastectomy, the New York City-based sex educator and 'topless activist' began bearing her scars proudly on social media and festivals to include herself in a narrative that she felt queer, black women are usually excluded from, and show the world that she's more than just a cancer survivor.

Scroll down for video

Proud: Ericka Hart, 31, proudly shows her double mastectomy scars on social media to include herself in a narrative she feels queer, black women are usually excluded from

Smiling through hardship: The self-described 'topless activist' was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in 2014 when she was just 28

Take it off: Ericka told Cosmopolitan that doctors were unable to show her an image of what reconstruction scars would look like on black skin

Ericka told Cosmopolitan she poses topless to 'push up against these social constructed normatives about gender that people with bodies like [hers] are supposed to be clothed and covered and modest'.

Growing up in a mostly white neighborhood in Maryland, she said she was used to standing out both because of the color of her skin for her sexuality, which she identified as queer by the time she got to college.

'A lot of the kids would say, "Why does your hair not move?"' she recalled. 'I wish someone on my journey would have told me more is that black is beautiful.'

Ericka said she already had 'fears around the medical industry' based on the history of what's 'happened to black people's bodies in this country,' and things only got worse when she began her cancer treatment.

Even though she was set to marry her girlfriend Emily just just months after her diagnosis, doctors kept asking her how she would tell her 'husband,' automatically assuming she was straight.

When she asked what reconstruction scars would look like on dark skin, she said doctors were unable to provide any references; she then did a quick Google search to find more information on her own, and still couldn't find any images of black women with double mastectomy scars.

Fierce: The New York-based activist said doctors would assume she was straight and that she couldn't afford certain treatments

She's used to standing out: 'A lot of the kids would say, "Why does your hair not move?"' Ericka recalled of her childhood in a mostly white neighborhood in Maryland

That's when she said she decided she would live her life as a survivor in a big way, to help increase the visibility of cancer survivors that don't fit the pre-established mold.

She said her activism is not only 'to show [her] breast cancer scars, its also to place [hersef] in a narrative where Im oftentimes erased'.

Not everyone gets it: Although responses to Ericka's 'topless activism' have mostly been positive, some accuse her of doing it for attention and others post racists comments

Ericka's history with breast cancer, and with 'topless activism' is a long one- her mom died of breast cancer when she was just 13, and she recalled that one time, after having nipple reconstruction, her mom came home and started doing ballet topless because she was so happy to be out of the hospital.

'She wasnt walking around outside topless, but I believe that if she were here, she would be in complete support of me doing so,' said Ericka.

Although the response to Ericka's activism has been positive, with most of her more than 70,000 Instagram followers praising her for being open about her story and thanking her for her bravery, many have taken issue with her type of activism, with some accusing her of doing it for attention and others even leaving racist comments on her posts.

'Ugh how disgusting a wild n***** with her only worthy body parts removed, an [sic] sight hard to forget indeed,' said one racist comment on a picture of Ericka topless.

A more appropriate comment criticized her for using her posts for attention: 'I honestly believe that sometimes you exposing your breasts all the time has really nothing to do anymore about being a cancer survivor.

Doing it herself: Ericka decided she would live her life as a survivor in a big way to help increase the visibility of cancer survivors that don't fit the pre-established mold

A long history: Ericka's mother died of breast cancer when she was just 13

'I feel like it's about you using them as a commercial tool to accumulate exposure and validating your beauty. For breast cancer survivors it's not only about our breast cause just a physical scar it's all about the mental breakdown and the realization that life is fluid and passing.

'You often miss that in your representation of breast cancer survivor. Exposing of your breasts fails to educate people on what is real.'

But Ericka, who now speaks at women rights' events and has been featured on the cover of magazines, said her 'topless activism' is about much more than getting social media attention.

'I wore my chest out because I wanted to raise awareness, but I also...still feel really sexy with my body this way, and I want to be received as sexy, not just as a survivor,' she told Refinery29.

'I wanted other people to hear my story and to be touched, like this is so not about me anymore. It's for whoever is going through this, or who may go through this, or who have parents who have gone through it'.
A 14-year-old girl is hoping to go further than any woman, or human, has ever been.

Eleanor Sigres, from Virginia, is a budding rocket scientist who has already won a national prize thanks to her impressive science knowledge, which she plans to nurture until she one day finds a way to Mars.



The talented teen won $25,000 last October when she took the top prize for middle schoolers at the prestigious Broadcom science and engineering competition over a pool of 6,000 nominees, and now she's is busy looking ahead to the future - and up to the big, wide universe around her.

Scroll down for video

Young and brilliant: Eleanor Sigres, 14, is already an award-winning budding rocket scientist, and she plans on one day going to Mars

Hard worker: The teenager opened up about her project, Rockets, Nozzles and Thrusts, Oh My!, which aimed to improve the design of the nozzles of cold gas rockets

Eleanor talked about her accomplishments and goals on Thursday as part of the TODAY show's Girls Changing the World series.

Winning: Eleanor earned $25,000 after winning the top prize for middle schoolers at the prestigious Broadcom competition

Her winning project, Rockets, Nozzles and Thrusts, Oh My!, looked into how to improve the nozzles of cold gas rockets, which are used to stabilize spacecrafts when they land and to help move astronauts around space when they leave their aircraft.

'I simply just changed the shape of that nozzle to see if I could produce the most thrust for the highest push, for the lightest and smallest nozzle,' she said, trying to explain the science behind her project in a way non-scientists could understand.

Her project consisted of 3D printed small plastic models of rocket nozzles, some wide angles and others with narrow angles, and an apparatus to push air through each nozzle in order to find the best design, according to Science for Society and the Public. She even created a system to detect and record data on force, pressure and temperature of the gas that came out of the nozzles.

As part of the competition, Eleanor also competed in a series of challenges to prove her science, engineering, technology and math knowledge.

A girl of many talents: The 14-year-old is also a member of an award-winning robotics team and an accomplished violinist

She does it all! Not only is the high school freshman a budding scientist, she also makes her own clothes, like a space-themed dress (pictured)

The high school freshman said she got the idea for her research project when she saw a SpaceX rockets failed landing, but Eleanor has known what she wanted to dedicate her life to when her parents took her to Florida to witness NASA's historic last space shuttle launch in 2011.

I kind of was like, this is what I wanna do she told TODAY host Savannah Guthrie. I want to go to space, I want to go to Mars.

The path Eleanor plans on taking is not one many women have experienced: only 11.3 per cent of aerospace engineers are women, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but she's determined to break that barrier.

'It hasn't been done yet,; she said when asked why she wants to go to Mars, even if it's a one-way ticket. 'It's our sibling planet and the fact that we could maybe find something there, even if it's just bacteria- that's still life.

Determined: Eleanor's parents said all they have to do to support their daughter's passion is providing the environment and she motivates herself

Her parents, who have four other children, said Eleanor is determinedly self-motivated, and all they have to do is provide her with opportunities to engage in her passion.

'If you just give them the environment, they self-motivate,' said her mom.

And Eleanor doesn't just have the discipline to train herself in rocket science, the bright girl is also an accomplished violinist, is learning Russian, and is a member of an award-winning robotics team.

Not only that, she makes clothes for herself, like the space-themed dress she wore for her TODAY show interview, using a sewing machine or a traditional loom.

When asked what girl power means to her, Eleanor said it means they can do anything.

'We can really dive into it and be the brains behind just about anything,' she concluded.
For a truly stylish getaway, check into one of these hotels designed by a fashion legend.

RALPH LAUREN'S RETREAT

Ralph Lauren designed the interiors for the Oceanfront rooms at Round Hill near Montego Bay in Jamaica

King of American cool Ralph Lauren designed the interiors for the Oceanfront rooms at Round Hill near Montego Bay in Jamaica. Theyre graceful and airy with four-poster beds and sea views.

INSIDER TIP: Pack with care. The dress code is no shorts after 7pm.

DETAILS: Seven nights B&B cost from 2,135pp based on two sharing an Ocean View room, including flights, transfers and UK lounge passes.

Valid until December 17. Book by November 30, elegantresorts.co.uk.

ARMANI'S ARABIAN NIGHTS

Take in the Dubai skyline from the Armani Hotel, which is situated in the worlds tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa

Marvel at the Dubai skyline from the Armani Hotel in the worlds tallest tower, Burj Khalifa. The interiors are by Giorgio and the Armani Amal restaurant is dazzling.

INSIDER TIP: Mall of the Emirates houses every imaginable shop. Or head to the Dubai Outlet Mall for brilliant designer discounts.

DETAILS: Rooms cost from around 2200 dirhams (440), armanihoteldubai.com. Flights to Dubai from 359 return, emirates.com.

LACROIX, SWEETIE!

French designer Christian Lacroix is behind the interiors at the recently opened LAntoine hotel in Paris

Enter the flamboyant imagination of Christian Lacroix at recently opened LAntoine in Paris. The hotel is within walking distance of the hip Marais area and Bastille.

INSIDER TIP: Shopping including Merci, the fashion and interiors store, is on your doorstep.

DETAILS: Rooms cost from 123 (111) a night, hotelantoinebastilleparis.com. Eurostar to Paris from 52 return, eurostar.com.
This is a busy time of year for those of us who care about clothes: were on the cusp of two seasons, our wardrobes are in awkward transition, we have literally nothing to wear.

Of course, there are people around who dont feel like that. Im married to one. His wardrobe transitions twice a year  once when the cardi goes on, and once when it comes off again. New clothes are purchased only when old ones have fallen apart.

It says a lot about him as, in Sense And Sensibility, Robert Ferrarss purchase of a toothpick-case says a lot, too.

Austens heroine, Elinor, comes across this young man in Grays jewellery shop. He keeps her waiting, while he selects the ivory, gold and pearls to adorn his choice; he grandly announces the last day on which his existence could continue without it.

Gill Hornby picked Catherine O'Flynn's What Was Lost and Isabel Wolff's A Vintage Affair

And with a glance that seemed to demand rather than express admiration, he takes his leave. Elinor makes assumptions about his character there and then  and all are correct. By our shopping are we defined.

There was more opportunity for character study, though, back on the old-fashioned High Street. The gloom of the mall is much more impersonal.

Catherine OFlynns thriller What Was Lost is set in a huge, soulless shopping centre, built on the site where a young girl vanished 20 years before. Could it be that little Kate has come back to haunt it? And how much was her disappearance caused by the death of her community?

Every week bestselling author Gill Hornby suggests key novels to help you through the trickier times in life

Back to the warm intimacy of the independent shop, Isabel Wolffs A Vintage Affair celebrates one of those wonderful second-hand boutiques that heal a fashionistas conscience.

Broken-hearted Phoebe opens a vintage shop in London, burying herself and her trauma in Pucci and Balenciaga. Hunting for stock, she meets an elderly French lady with an exquisite, preserved wardrobe that may hold the secrets to her past.

Because good clothes, treated well, are not just a financial investment, theyre an emotional one: they become part of the fabric of our lives.
Mr Lennon was my geography teacher. I cant remember a thing he taught me about sedimentary layers, but I do remember his layers of winter wardrobe.

Rustic, autumnal russets, mustards and browns in a few pairs of trousers on heavy rotation.

It was straight out of the geography teacher handbook, which, since we all understand what dressing like a geography teacher means, I have to assume exists.

Mr Lennon had a cracking sense of humour and endless patience, but style cred? Not so much.

Much maligned as chunky, frumpy and deeply unsexy, corduroy is enjoying fashions love of the ironic so uncool its cool moment. Pictured is the trend on the catwalk at Mulberry

Until now. Without warning, geography teacher chic is happening. And its largely thanks to the resurgence of their go-to fabric: corduroy.

Much maligned as chunky, frumpy and deeply unsexy, corduroy is enjoying fashions love of the ironic so uncool its cool moment.

Prada was one of the autumn/winter shows to unveil corduroy suits in a Seventies palette of muddy browns  they also turned up at Marc Jacobs and Mulberry shows, among others.

As a result, our High Street will soon be vibrating with that pleasing swish swoosh sound that is the corduroy wearers cow bell.

If you ask me, its every bit as charmingly autumn as running through a huge pile of crisp leaves.

CORDUROY: THE RULES Beware the baggy slouch corduroy can take on. It can slacken while youre wearing it so, for trousers, buy on the tight side. They will loosen up. For a sleeker feel, choose thin ribbed styles. The chunkier the rib, the more casual the look. Thats the general rule. Have fun with colour and youre less likely to look like Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society. Mix corduroy with other fabrics rather than going for the full geography teacher suit. Advertisement

The trick to doing corduroy 2017-style and swerving any frumpy terrain is simple: add a fresh colour.

The pink trousers by Isabel Marant (295, harveynichols.com) are a perfect match for more wintery tones.

But if that price is making you twitch, the pink high-waisted trousers from Mango (49.99, mango.com) are also great. There is a matching jacket but wearing them together might be taking it a bit too night at the rodeo.

To emulate the Prada vibe, the 68 flared style from American vintage-inspired brand Free People  which Im going to go ahead and label geography teacher brown  are a great length for trainers.

But when a trend explodes these days, it really explodes and so, of course, corduroy is popping up on everything.

Like the brilliant boots by River Island, a steal at 45 (riverisland.com). Or this seasons it hat  a bakerboy style cap in brown cord, strikingly similar to Pradas design (16.95, hatsandcaps.co.uk).

And I have to hand it to Zara for its tiny corduroy bag (or, as theyre calling it at zara.com, a minaudiere) for 29.99. If you thought corduroy couldnt be sexy, you clearly havent seen its retooling in the various mini skirts dotting the High Street.

The burgundy zip-through design from Topshop (34, topshop.com) is born to be teamed with flat boots and something leopard print.

And check out the off-white jacket by Uniqlo (89.90, uniqlo.com).

Besides a steaming hot bath, I cant imagine anything more comforting to slip into on a chilly winters day than the soft, oversized shirt by The Cords & Co (155, thecords.co.uk), a label that sells only corduroy clothes.

Its a rare treat for fashion to decide something practical is also cool, so lets make the most of the corduroy moment. Mr Lennon, I salute you!
Emma Hope MBE, 55, launched her eponymous brand in 1985. She has two London stores and has designed shoes for Paul Smith, Anna Sui and Mulberry. She lives in London.

My parents were very supportive of my ambition to become a shoe designer. My journalist mother particularly  and practically so. She was a fashion editor in the Fifties and went to Paris for all the shows.

When I was a teenager she would take me and my sister to jumble sales to elbow through piles of clothes for treasures to dress up in on Saturday nights. We found skinny pencil skirts and oversized camel coats with silk velvet-lined pockets.

Shoe designer Emma Hope says her father greeted any problem by saying what a joke it was

I became addicted to beautifully made old clothes, but there were never any shoes. I imagined stunning satin designs and embroidered velvet heels  so I decided to make them myself.

My father was a naval officer in World War II and I relied on his problem-solving abilities when my business was taking off. I would ask him advice and he would think of a practical solution.

I have a favourite picture of him, smart and useful in white shorts and captains hat, standing on the bridge of his ship with his men around him, navigating her into the notoriously tricky Sydney harbour. He is so calm, when he must have been under so much pressure.

My father greeted any problem by saying what a joke it was and taught me to laugh to find my way out of any crisis. He would always say, in the words of Mae West: One at a time boys, please. Then hed take out a sheet of paper, write down my problems and work out with me how to solve them, one by one.

It is my mothers passion for lovely clothes and the memory of my fathers spectacular calm in a crisis that I draw on when I dont know what to do.

Even now, when Im trying to get the last embroideries and new raffia samples from India and Morocco, the strategic organisation involved in getting them produced on time comes down to an exercise in naval planning.
A chef and burger connoisseur has revealed his secret recipe for the humble cheeseburger - and it is as simple as picking the right Australian beef.

Jon Champ, owner and head chef at Five Points Burgers in North Sydney, shared with Daily Mail Australia his top tips for creating the perfect burger ahead of International Cheeseburger day on Tuesday.

According to Jon, mastering the subtle art of crafting a cheeseburger involves three steps: choosing premium beef, finding the ultimate smokey cheese and nailing the toasted bun.

His uncomplicated recipe, which can be cooked in the most basic of kitchens, is self-professed to be even better than the cheeseburgers at McDonald's.

Jon Champ (pictured) has revealed the recipe behind the perfect cheeseburger recipe

According to Jon, the perfect cheeseburger can be achieved with the right meat, a milk bun, American cheese and a secret sauce recipe

PICK PREMIUM AUSTRALIAN MEAT

Jon told Daily Mail Australia the perfect cheeseburger cannot be achieved without an immaculate cut of premium Australian meat.

If you can, go to the butcher and ask for chuck steak or skirt steak, and have it minced with either brisket or short rib, leaving in 30 per of its fat Jon said.

'And use a barbecue - or a pan if you don't have access to one - and hold it to the heat with a flat griddle with a splash of hot canola or cottonseed oil until it is caramelised.'

To finish off the patty, Jon recommends holding down the spatula on top of the meat for around 30-40 seconds to shape it and ensure it is cooked medium rare.

It is important to find the right cut of meat to make the perfect mince patty

Jon salts the meat patties before cooking them to medium rare and ensuring they have the right pattie shape

To finish off the patty, Jon recommends holding down the spatula on top of the meat for around 30-40 seconds

USE SMOKEY AMERICAN CHEESE

No burger is complete without the right slice of tasty American cheese to melt on top and underneath the succulent meat patty.

Jon's preferred cheese variety is an unbranded smokey American cheese from Coles or Woolworths which can melt without hassle.

'Leave the cheese out of the fridge or put it in a pan for 1-3 seconds to quickly give it some warmth before placing it on top of the patty,' Jon said.

Despite the common practice of melting the cheese slice under the grill, Jon says the best way is to let it melt from the heat of the freshly cooked meat patty instead.

The perfect slice of cheese to accompany the patty is an unbranded American cheese

Despite the common practice of melting the cheese slice under the grill, Jon says the best way is to let it melt from the heat of the freshly cooked meat patty instead

THE PERFECT CHEESEBURGER INGREDIENTS 4 Milk buns 640g Australian Beef mince 8 slices smoked cheese Five Points cheeseburger sauce Cottonseed oil Pinch of salt Five Points Cheeseburger Sauce 2 tbsp aioli 2 tbsp tomato sauce 2 tbsp mustard 5 dill pickles finely chopped (unsweetened best) METHOD 1. Roll the mince into 4 even balls, roughly 160 grams each. Then individually roll and flatten the mince between your hands to create the pattie. The flatter the better as this guarantees a more formed burger pattie after its cooked. 2. Heat BBQ on high, using a flat griddle. As an alternative to the barbecue, you can use a pan over gas. 3. Once hot, liberally pour the oil until it starts to show a high or medium smoke point. This is a continuous bluish smoke that will appear from the oil as it becomes hot. 4. Salt the burger pattie then place on the flat hot surface. Leave for 30 seconds, then (this is the important part) press firmly on the surface of the pattie and evenly smash it with a spatula for 2/3 seconds to get that lovely brown crust. 5. Once the edges beneath the pattie become crisp and dark, turn to cook the other side. Once turned add a cheese slice and leave for a minute to get a medium cooked pattie. 6. Toast milk bun, add another slice of cheese to the bottom bun, liberal amounts ofcheeseburger sauce to your liking, the cooked pattie and finish it with the top bun. COOKING TIPS  Dont forget you can get freshly ground mince at your local butcher. Make sure to ask for the beef to be grinded through medium blade twice, to ensure it has a good texture.  If you want to create your own mince at home with a food processor, use either chuck, sirloin or skirt coupled with brisket. The mixture of lean to fattier cuts maximises the delicious beef flavour in the cheeseburger. Advertisement

FIND THE PERFECT MILK BUN

The luscious ingredients of Jon's signature cheeseburger need to be nestled between a flawless bread bun.

The chef's secret weapon for mouthwatering bites is using a soft milk bun from artisan bakery Brasserie Bread.

'We went through a lot of buns, including brioche, to find the perfect one for our cheeseburger at Five Point Burgers,' Jon explained.

'A milk bun is a lot lighter than the traditional brioche and the trick is to toast it a little bit under the grill, but not too much, just so it has a bit of a crunch.'

Jon's secret weapon for mouthwatering bites is using a soft milk bun from artisan bakery Brasserie Bread

'A milk bun is a lot lighter than the traditional brioche and the trick is to toast it a little bit under the grill, but not too much, just so it has a bit of a crunch,' Jon said

Ahead of International Cheeseburger Day, Jon Champ of Five Points Burgers in North Sydney revealed his recipe

USE THE SECRET CHEESEBURGER SAUCE

The Fivepoints special cheeseburger sauce uses a classic mix of American mustard, tomato sauce, aioli and dill pickles.

Perfect for drizzling on top of the patty and cheese, Jon mixes together American mustard, tomato sauce, aioli and dill pickles.

'The trick is not to liquidise the sauce, just mix it in a bowl and then put half a spoonful of it on the burger,' he said.

'It is so simple you can cook it in any kitchen, and make sure you eat it straight away!'

Perfect for drizzling on top of the patty and cheese, Jon mixes together American mustard, tomato sauce, aioli and dill pickles
When your product makes it into the glamorous goodies haul handed out to A-list nominated celebrities, you can rest assured you are onto a good thing.

'Lip lady to the stars' Janine Hall will be gifting her new book 'One Million Kisses' to Emmy Award nominees this year as part of their Four Seasons Beverly Hills swag bags.

While the Sunshine Coast beauty expert can't reveal the names of all Hollywood stars who will be receiving her book, she did let slip Jessica Lange, Michelle Pfeiffer, John Mayer and Julia Louis-Dreyfus were all on the list.

It's not the first time Janine's products have made it into the prestigious bags either  for the past two years her top-selling lip-balm has featured in bags for the top 40 Academy Award nominees.

Janine Hall will be gifting her new book 'One Million Kisses' to Emmy Award nominees

Michelle Pfeiffer (pictured left) and Julia Louis-Dreyfus (pictured right) are two of the celebrities at this year's Emmy Awards who will receive Janine Hall's new book

The lip print reader revealed that when she was approached by the US company who distributes the bags to contribute this year she seized the 'very exciting' opportunity to share her new book.

Speaking to FEMAIL, Janine said she'd been working on 'One Million Kisses' - a labour of love all about the world of lips - for the past year, but the Emmy's deadline really got things moving.

'It really came together in the last few months; there were just six weeks between editing the manuscripts and printing,' she said.

'Then I jumped on a plane and hand delivered 50 copies to Hollywood Swag Bag's founder Lisa Gal in Los Angeles late August.'

She shared the concept behind her business  from her lip-balm range based on the chakra system of the body through to her book is to teach people to learn to love their lips.

Janine Hall's lip balms have made it into Oscar goodie bags for the last two years

Your lip shape defined: Alluring (top left) Lavish (top right) Tender (bottom left) Timeless (bottom right)

Janine explained lip print reading is a skill which she developed over the 17 years she worked as a remedial massage therapist where reading body language was integral to her work.

'That process gave me the ability to really tune into the body. It really honed my intuitive skills.

The holistic healer first began hand-making her lip products from her Caramundi kitchen for her massage clients 15 years ago, now the business is set to take the international stage by storm.

Your lip shape defined: Classic (top left) Pampered (top right) Divine Goddess (bottom left) Sweetheart (bottom right)

Having recently turned her hand to lip print reading - she's only one of a handful in the world - she said gives her greater a depth of understanding into her clients physical, mental and eimotional wellbeing.

'There are different aspects of the lips that intuit through the chakra system.

'My concept is to help people understand their lips, and to learn to love them.'

WHAT YOUR LIP SHAPE SAYS ABOUT YOU 1. Alluring: Prominent arched peak in heart centre, upturned lip corner Funny, witty, adorable and loved for your humour 2. Lavish: Thinner lips on top, wide lips, often straighter Love the finer things in life. Generous, passionate and kind 3. Tender: Thin-lipped on top and bottom, wider-lipped smile A softly spoken and loyal friend 4. Timeless: Wide with a slightly fuller bottom lip, upturned corner, thinner top lip Healthy, positive, a great multi-tasker and manage people well 5. Classic: Full top lip, slightly up turned symmetrical bottom lips Appreciate the simple things in life, have a strong sense of style 6. Pampered: Definite arched heart centre, full top and bottom lips Funny, witty, charming and undeniably attractive 7. Divine Goddess: Smaller width lips but with a wide smile Powerful, well-educated and articulate. 8. Sweetheart: Slightly rounded heart centre, thinner lip on top than bottom Determined and driven toward success, open and thoughtful 9. Elegant: Fuller upper and bottom lip with top being slightly fuller Cultured, imaginative and dainty with great sense of humour 10. Courageous: Full lip top and bottom with wide and big smile Fearless, self-assured, enterprising and authoritative 11. Mystic: Small thin width top and bottom, with often closed wide smile Appreciates solitude and enjoy the stillness of life Abridged excerpt from One Million Kisses - Courtesy Janine Hall Advertisement

Janine's new book 'One Million Kisses'  the first to be written on the subject in Australia - takes a look at lips and what they can tell us about our personalities and our health.

'I wrote the book to help people gain an understanding of themselves through their lips, she said.

'I want to educate women to love their lips. The book is for people who are in pursuit of perfect luscious lips  naturally.'

Your lip shape defined: Elegant (top left) Courageous (top right) Mystic (bottom centre)

While the creative alchemist concedes there is a definite trend towards plumper looking lips, she's not an advocate for cosmetic surgery.

'When I take a closer look at the effects these lip injections are having on many women on an emotional level, I want to tell them to stop and take a closer look.'

She said her main concern is Bacterium Clostridium Botulinum type A - a drug commonly used in cosmetic procedures to ease fine lines and wrinkles - because of the effect on the central nervous system.

'The mind-set around what you do to your lips is really important, so my thing with lips is love them and be kind to them,' she concluded

'When you block this you are more likely to feel depressed and less sure of who you are,' she said.

'The more often you have lip injections the more likelihood you will want more because you have that feeling of not enough, or not feeling good enough.'

Instead Janine offers that bridging the 'disconnect' between how your feel and how you think you should look as a pathway to true beauty.

'The mind-set around what you do to your lips is really important, so my thing with lips is love them and be kind to them,' she concluded.

'One Million Kisses' will be launched 28 September
A first-time mum left infertile by cancer didn't have a period for seven years  but claims she was told by doctors that this was normal.

Married mother-of-one, Rebecca Ponton, 31, only had one period in the eight years after her son Cooper was born and failed to get pregnant again.

The retail assistant, from Victoria, claims she visited her GP more than 10 times about her fertility problems but says she was told delays were normal and to keep trying.

But when Rebecca was eventually referred to a gynecologist she was shocked to be diagnosed with uterine cancer and told she needed a hysterectomy leaving her infertile.

Married mother-of-one, Rebecca Ponton, 31, only had one period in the eight years after her son Cooper was born and failed to get pregnant again

The retail assistant, from Victoria, claims she visited her GP more than 10 times about her fertility problems but says she was told delays were normal and to keep trying

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF UTERINE CANCER? - The most common symptom of cancer of the uterus is unusual vaginal bleeding - Some women also experience smelly, watery discharge and other symptoms include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or difficulty urinating - The exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown but factors such as being over 50, being postmenopausal, never having children, starting periods early or reaching menopause late can all increase a woman's risk of developing it. Advertisement

'12 months after Cooper was born we decided we wanted to try for another baby,' Rebecca said.

'For eight years I never had a period but every time I spoke to the doctors they just told me not to worry and said it was fine and to give it time because it would happen eventually.

'When it got to seven years I put my foot down and said "you really have to do something, there is something not right with my body".

'I was referred to a gynaecologist and they told me I had blocked tubes and did an operation to unblock them  but instead I found out, aged 30, I had cancer of the uterus.'

Rebecca said she regrets 'not pushing the doctors much earlier to get it checked out'.

'I went to my GP 10 times or more and I just believed them when they said everything was fine, even after so long,' she said.

But when Rebecca was eventually referred to a gynecologist she was shocked to be diagnosed with uterine cancer and told she needed a hysterectomy leaving her infertile

'But we had been looking at having a baby through IVF and doctors told me this could have spread the cancer and resulted in my death,' she said

'But we had been looking at having a baby through IVF and doctors told me this could have spread the cancer and resulted in my death.

'There are so many women out there that don't get the chance to have a baby at all and we are very grateful we did have the chance to have Cooper. But I had always wanted a second child, so to have that dream shattered was hard.'

Rebecca and labourer husband Matt Ponton, 31, decided to start trying for another baby 12 months after eight-year-old son Cooper was born in 2009.

The retail assistant had never had regular periods since she first started them age 14 due to having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) but in the eight years after her son's birth only had one single period lasting two days.

Rebecca and labourer husband Matt Ponton, 31, decided to start trying for another baby 12 months after eight-year-old son Cooper was born in 2009

After multiple GP visits and a referral to a gynecologist in Melbourne, she underwent a routine operation to unblock her tubes  but instead, in August last year, she was diagnosed with stage one uterine cancer.

Rebecca was put on medication but this gave her severe side effects such as bleeding and abdominal pain so the only option was to undergo a full hysterectomy in February this year.

Rebecca doesn't know how long she had had the cancer for but doctors told the IVF she had been considering wasn't an option as this could have caused it to spread rapidly.

Now the only chance of a brother or sister for Cooper for Rebecca and Matt is surrogacy, which is costly and legally difficult in Australia.

Rebecca said: 'Ever since I started getting periods they were never regular. I was always told this was due to my PCOS.

Rebecca doesn't know how long she had had the cancer for but doctors told the IVF she had been considering wasn't an option as this could have caused it to spread rapidly

The mum-of-one said while she is grateful she had the chance to have Cooper she is heartbroken she will never be able to have another baby

'But from when I fell pregnant with Cooper I only had one period in those eight years.

'I felt like I really had to push to get a referral, but how long do you wait?'

Rebecca is now sharing her story as she does not want other women to go through the same experience and said they should push their doctors if something doesn't feel right.

The mum-of-one said while she is grateful she had the chance to have Cooper she is heartbroken she will never be able to have another baby.

'Millions of women do not get that opportunity and we are happy the way we are,' she said.

'But if someone had listened to me all those years ago maybe something could have been done earlier and it is still really hard to think about the fact I could have had the chance to have another baby.

'Some days my son still asks me "when am I going to have a brother or sister" but he has started to realise now that won't happen,' she said

The sisters, who also lost dad Marty (centre) to lung cancer in January this year, are jetting off later this month for what will be Rebecca's first trip outside Australia

'Some days my son still asks me "when am I going to have a brother or sister" but he has started to realise now that won't happen.

'I think if after 18 months of trying you are not getting pregnant push to get checked out  do not wait as long as I did.'

Rebecca and 26-year-old sister Lauren Van Der Ven, from Rowville, Victoria, won a $25,000 AUD holiday to Wavi Island in Fiji after judges were touched by Rebecca's cancer battle.

The sisters, who also lost dad Marty to lung cancer in January this year, are jetting off later this month for what will be Rebecca's first trip outside Australia.

Lauren said: 'My sister deserves a holiday like this  in the past 18 months we have gone through an unimaginable amount of chaos and destruction.

'A holiday of this magnitude is what our family needs to end the trail of loss we've been through.'

A spokesman for Rebecca's GP surgery, said: 'Unfortunately the practice is not able to provide comment as this would compromise patient confidentiality.'
Having already walked the runway for Dolce & Gabbana - and been hailed as the 'most beautiful' member of the royal family - Lady Amelia Windsor has become a firm fixture in fashion circles.

So it was no surprise to see the 22-year-old blonde take a seat in the front row at the Emporio Armani show on Sunday.

Lady Amelia rubbed shoulders with grime artist Dizzee Rascal and the French actress Alice David as London Fashion Week got underway.

The former Edinburgh University student was pretty in pink, teaming bold colour block trousers with a co-ordinating chunky knit.

Lady Amelia Windsor, who has been hailed as the most beautiful member of the royal family, attended the Emporio Armani show at London Fashion Week

She was joined on the front row by grime artist Dizzee Rascal and French actress Alice David

She completed her eye-catching outfit with black boots, a white shirt and a metallic silver handbag.

After taking in the show from the star-studded front row, Lady Amelia joined the likes of Poppy Delevingne, Ellie Goulding, Liam Payne and Olivia Palermo at the label's equally glitzy after-party.

It followed her appearance at the Shrimps show, which saw Lady Amelia wear a short faux fur jacket from the cult label over a dress from another fashion pack favourite; Ganni.

The 22-year-old former Edinburgh University student has already walked the runway for Dolce & Gabbana

Lady Amelia wore a pair of bright pink trousers, a white shirt, and a pink and purple chunky knit

Lady Amelia is the granddaughter of the Duke of Kent, the Queen's first cousin.

The 36th in line to the throne was hand-picked as a muse by Dolce & Gabbana, and featured in a campaign for the Italian power house alongside another royal; Princess Olympia of Greece.

Even Lady Amelia's phone cover matched her bold pink trousers and cosy knit
Viewers tuning into last night's episode of Victoria were left smitten after Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes revealed that acting isn't their only talent - after the pair performed a tender on-screen duet together.

The stars, both 31, who are dating in real life, reduced some viewers to tears during a softly-lit scene that saw them sing a German love song to each other.

The dramatic Sunday night installment, which showed Prince Albert returning back to Germany after the death of his father, and the birth of the couple's son Albert, reunited the couple at the episode's climax for the heartfelt - and very tuneful - duet.

Scroll down for video

Some viewers were so impressed by the gentle love song that they suggested Coleman and Hughes should even perform together in real life.

One, @EinCrespo1, wrote: 'When are they going to release a single?'

Another fan said Coleman's performance had left her 'in tears' while @airchrysalis exclaimed: 'This episode is killing me and I like it.'

The actors have won rave reviews for their theatrical performances in the latest series of the show, which is written by Daisy Goodwin and documents Victoria and Albert's relationship before his untimely death in 1861 at the age of 42.

Last night saw Albert dash to Coburg in Germany after learning of the death of his father - only to arrive and be told that he was actually the biological child of Leopold, his uncle.

A tender scene between Victoria (Coleman) and Albert (Hughes) ended an emotional episode in which the man Albert believed was his father died, only for the young royal to travel to Coburg, Germany to be told his Uncle Leopold was actually his real father

Coleman's serene singing left viewers in awe, with one praising the actress, saying: 'I'm in love'

She can hold a tune! It isn't the first time Jenna Coleman has sang on screen, with a YouTube video capturing a very soulful rendition of Happy Birthday to a fan in Toronto in 2015

The highly-charged episode also saw Victoria revealing her pain after a difficult birth with their latest heir, Albert.

She told her husband: 'You dont know what its like to look at a child and feel as though you have nothing to offer it. Thats how worthless I felt.'

Coleman, who began her career in Emmerdale, has showcased her vocal abilities before, once singing Happy Birthday in accomplished style to a fan in Toronto in 2015.

Last month, the actress sparked rumours she had become engaged to her Victoria co-star after she was spotted wearing a sparkling ring on her wedding finger.
Ivanka Trump is back in New York City this week and isn't letting a little rain get in the way of enjoying her time back home.

The 35-year-old was photographed leaving Trump Tower on Monday morning, and despite a misty drizzle, she left her umbrella inside  all the better to show off her outfit of the day.

Ivanka was camera-ready in a black dress with a red floral design and peplum, and simple black ankle-strap heels as she was spotted leaving the building.

Lady in red: Ivanka Trump was seen leaving Trump Tower in New York City on Monday morning

Rain or shine: The 35-year-old didn't carry an umbrella despite the rainy weather

So girlish: She curled her hair and wore it in a low ponytail, tied up in a large black ribbon

Figure-flaunting: For her outfit, she picked a red floral pattern dress

On-the-go: She was only outside for a brief moment before ducking into an SUV

The mother-of-three was perfectly primped, too, with a swipe of bright red lipstick to match her outfit, as well as a girlish hairdo.

She wore her blonde locks pulled back into a low, curly ponytail at the nape of her neck and tied it with an oversized black ribbon, looking the part of a porcelain doll.

Despite having no umbrella on hand, she didn't give the rain or humidity a chance to mess up her hair, and walked quickly to the fleet of SUVs waiting for her on the curb outside.

The first daughter was met with three cars carrying Secret Service members to protect her as she headed to take care of business.

Briefly, she smiled at photographers stationed outside, reveling in her photo op before ducking into the back seat of a car.

Simple: She didn't carry a purse but did accessorize with black pumps

Hey there: She also wore a swipe of red lipstick and smiled subtly at the cameras outside

Doll: The ribbon in her hair fluttered as she took the few steps to the cars on the curb

Wherever she goes: Ivanka had three SUVs waiting for her, filled with Secret Service agents

Protected: Passersby were made to stop at the corner to allow Ivanka to pass

Bit of bling: She was mostly jewelry-free save for a pair of glitzy stud earrings

Ivanka was last spotted in Washington, D.C. last week when she was seen leaving her home in the upscale Kalorama neighborhood that she shares with her husband Jared Kushner, 36, and their three children.

On that occasion, she smiled widely for the cameras as she slipped through her front gate to the Secret Service vehicles.

She wrote a pleated white midi-length skirt with a sleeveless purple top that Friday, accessorizing with a pair of black pumps from her own brand and a matching black bag.

Her husband Jared was also pictured leaving the house on Friday morning in a suit and tie as the pair, who both have positions as senior advisers at the White House, headed to work.

Just the previous night, Ivanka's father and the first lady hosted a black-tie dinner for the White House Historical Association  but the first daughter and her husband were nowhere to be seen during the glamorous event.

Peppy: Ivanka seemed in a cheery disposition as she stepped out of her house in Washington, D.C. on Friday morning, greeting the day with a bright smile

On her way: The first daughter was pictured leaving the home she shares with her husband Jared Kushner, 36, and their three children in the upscale Kalorama neighborhood

Sartorial picks: Ivanka paired her white skirt with a sleeveless top

Change: The mother-of-three's relaxed and carefree attitude contrasted with the low profile she previously maintained over the previous few mornings

The mother-of-three's relaxed and carefree attitude on Friday morning contrasted with the low profile she previously maintained over the past few mornings, during which she avoided photographers by leaving her house in a blacked-out SUV.

On Thursday, though, the first daughter returned to her usual cheery disposition, smiling for the cameras as she stepped out of her family home in a pink floral dress.

Ivanka's outing on Thursday came after she revealed in an interview that she will not ever publicly criticize her father, because she considers herself 'part of the team'.

'To voice dissent publicly would mean I'm not part of the team,' the first daughter and top White House aide told the Financial Times. 'When you're part of a team, you're part of a team.'

She added that she believes people had 'unrealistic expectations' regarding her influence over her father and his decision making, insisting that 'my presence in and of itself' would not ever cause President Trump to 'abandon his core values'.

Duo: Her husband Jared was also pictured leaving the house on Friday morning in a suit and tie as the pair, who both have positions as senior advisers at the White House, headed to work

Happy: Ivanka looked as though she was on top of the world on Thursday morning, as she stepped out of her Washington, D.C. home with a wide smile on her face

'To those critics, shy of turning my father into a liberal, Id be a failure to them,' Ivanka added.

As President Trump entered office in January, Ivanka, along with her husband Jared, also a White House aide, and Gary Cohn, the director of the National Economic Council, were considered moderating factors who could bring the president to a more central stance on issues, instead of to the far right.

However, some decisions that Trump made tested Ivanka's clout, including his decision in June to pull out of the Paris climate accord.

'Anything we thought a few months back about how she was going to be a moderating influence on Trump has not come to fruition,' Douglas Brinkley, the presidential historian, told the Financial Times as part of its profile on Ivanka.

'If she's having a major policy influence, it's really being done in a subterranean fashion, because there are no clear signs of it.'

Sartorial: She was pictured leaving her home shortly after 8am on Thursday, wearing a pink dress with a floral pattern

Casual: Happily smiling for the cameras as she exited the home she shares with husband Jared Kushner and their three children, Ivanka appeared incredibly relaxed

Ivanka and Jared, who both have offices in the White House, do discuss their work life at home, although the first daughter acknowledged in her latest interview it might be best to separate their professional and personal lives as much as possible.

'We talk about it,' Ivanka said. 'I think its probably healthier to compartmentalize more. But I dont think this job lends itself to that. I think the weight of the decisions that are made in this building are such that you cant leave it at the door in the same way that you could in the business world.'

Although she sought to minimize her influence on her father, she has accompanied him on many official visits, helping him win over crowds and carry his message.
Coming off the back of her walk on the London Fashion Week catwalk, Tess Holliday is hitting the promotion trail hard in support of her new book.

The model appeared on the Today show as one of the program's style heroes, offering some nuggets of advice from The Not So Subtle Art of Being a Fat Girl while talking to Hoda Kotb.

During the interview, Tess revealed that her confidence in her style today originally came from being bullied her whole life.

Scroll down for video

Making the rounds: Tess Holliday appeared on the Today show as she promoted her upcoming book The Not So Subtle Art of Being a Fat Girl

Style hero: Tess discussed how she was bullied and abused for most of her life

'I think the fact that I loved what I loved and my mom always told me to wear what I want to wear and do what I want to do... and I knew I was going to be made fun of, but I feel like fashion should be fun even at a young age,' she says.

The new book covers Tess' tough life through bullying, tough times at home and sexual abuse - battles with which she says resulted in her being the thick-skinned, stubborn and driven woman she is today.

Also in the interview, Hoda asks Tess to share an example of her so-called 'Tess Holliday's advice for life' from the book.

Having a laugh: She offered Hoda a bit of life advice, saying 'You can eat your feelings, but guac is extra!' which earned her a high-five from Hoda

In support: Tess' husband Nick was in the studio sporting a stylish dark-colored romper

Strike a pose: Model Tess recently had just 24 hours at home in LA between London and New York City

She responds with one of her 'favorites,' saying: 'You can eat your feelings, but guac is extra!' The joke gained Tess a big high-five from Hoda, who also called her 'an inspiration.'

The video ends with a brief look at Tess' husband Nick in the studio, sporting a stylish romper.

Over the weekend, Tess got to spend 24 hours with her hubby and her sons between trips to London and New York after helping to kick off Fashion Week by walking in Simply Be's barrier-busting 'curve catwalk.'

Tess was scheduled on Sunday to fly to New York City for the next stop on her book tour, so in her one day back in Los Angeles she already had to pack up - but her son Bowie wasn't having it.

Take a hint? She posted a sweet video of her little boy Bowie on Saturday climbing onto his mom's suitcase

In a video posted on Saturday, the one-year-old boy can be seen crawling on top of Tess's big suitcase before giving his mom a little wave.

'You don't want mommy to go?' Tess asks her son, who replies with a big smile.

'Bags are packed to leave tomorrow and I think Bowie is trying to tell me something,' Tess wrote in the video's caption.

Just a few days before, Tess was walking alongside women ranging from a size 10 all the up to a 26 to kick off London Fashion Week in what has been hailed as its first ever 'curve catwalk'.

With the average UK size a 16, fashion bosses have regularly come under fire for casting waif-like models to advertise their clothes.

But on Thursday evening, seven women of all shapes and sizes took to the stage to showcase their wildly different body shapes in Simply Be's 'size inclusive fashion show' - wearing t-shirts emblazoned with their dress sizes across their chests.

March of the plus-size models! L-R Tess Holliday, Kelly Knox, Callie Thorpe, Felicity Hayward, Sonny, Ali Tate and Hayley Hasselhoff team up for the LFW 'Curve Catwalk'

Walking the walk: Tess wore a crushed velvet gold dress that teased just a hint of cleavage and flaunted her pins

Joining in: Size 24 blogger Callie Thorpe takes to the stage in a black top and fringed shirt that showed off more than a glimpse of her legs as she took to the runway on Thursday evening

Next up: Hayley Hasselhoff, a shapely size 16, showed off her sensational figure in a bustier teamed with a floral bomber jacket and matching skirt as she worked the runway

Among them were size 26 model Tess and size 22 Callie Thorpe, both of whom have been outspoken about the plus-size debate in the past.

Holliday was this week forced to defend herself after being accused of 'promoting obesity' during an appearance on Loose Women.

The mother-of-two, from Mississippi, said: 'No one is celebrating obesity, I am celebrating being the first model my size in the world to be in an industry where everyone said I couldn't.

'I am celebrating existing in my body and loving myself, when everybody said I wasn't worth anything.'

Thursday night's show, held at the Vinyl Factory in London's Soho, was organised by curve clothing e-tailer Simply Be and also starred Hayley Hasslehoff and and Kelly Knox.

Swish: Hayley, who is the daughter of Baywatch star David, showcased a series of stunning looks including a one-shouldered blue velvet dress (left) and an asymmetrical LBD (right)

The women of all shapes and sizes took to the stage to showcase their wildly different body shapes in Simply Be's 'size inclusive fashion show' on Thursday night

It comes after the company conducted a study which found that 89 per cent of its customers did not feel that their size was represented in mainstream advertising, on runways, on TV and in the fashion press.

In addition, more than half complained that they felt ignored by the high street in terms of the use of imagery of women their size and it simply ignored them when it came to fashion choices.

The Curve Catwalk, hosted a stone's through away from Carnaby Street in London, is described as 'a celebration showing that fashion is for everyone regardless of size or shape'.

Defiant: Size 26 Tess Holliday was this week forced to defend herself after being accused of 'promoting obesity' during an appearance on Loose Women

Blogger: Callie Thorpe at Thursday night's show, held at the Vinyl Factory in London's Soho, which was organised by curve clothing e-tailer Simply Be and also starred Hayley Hasslehoff

Curves: Size 14 Sonny and Ali Tate. The show comes after Simply Be conducted a study which found that 89 per cent of its customers did not feel that their size was represented on runways

Angela Spindler, chief executive of N Brown Group, the owners of Simply Be said: 'This isn't about thin shaming - we just think it's time we saw more diversity in terms of size in magazines, in advertising campaigns and on runways at fashion weeks around the globe.

Kelly Knox, Diversity campaigner and the UK's leading disabled model, added: 'Fashion should not be defined by ability, size, age, colour or gender choice. Fashion is for everybody.'

Hayley Hasselhoff said: 'When the guys at Simply Be asked me to be involved I jumped at the chance. The brand empowers women to be themselves and stand proud saying 'this is me'.

Bright lights: Tess recently defended herself against claims that she was 'celebrating obesity' by saying she was only 'celebrating' herself

On and on: She later covered up in eye-catching faux fur coat on the Simply Be catwalk

'This message resonates with what I project out into the world; that the greatest gift is being connected to yourself and loving yourself for all that you are.

'It's amazing to see Simply Be bringing more diversity on the runway because, after all, celebrating fashion shouldn't be dependent on dress size.

'The Curve Catwalk is about representing beauty in all and empowering women to love themselves through fashion. I can't wait to be involved.'
Claressa Coleman, from Arkansas, was bitten by a brown recluse spider

A 29-year-old woman was left on the brink of death after being bitten by a venomous spider as she slept next to her husband.

Claressa Coleman, from Arkansas, thought the jab that felt 'like a pin' in her shoulder was from a mosquito - but it later turned out to be from a poisonous brown recluse spider.

Initially thinking it was nothing to be concerned about, she went back to sleep. But she went on to spend a month in hospital and ballooned two stone in weight.

She was unaware of the tell-tale symptoms of the black mark where she was bitten and bouts of vomiting until blood tests confirmed doctors' suspicion.

Allergic to the baby spider's poison, her kidneys failed and she had convulsions in her stomach every five minutes.

Speaking for the first time about her ordeal, the arachnophobe said: 'I cant believe a baby spider nearly killed me.

'Ive got the pest control guys in, and we have had the whole house fumigated now. I'm not going through this again.'

When was she bitten?

On June 27, the morning after she was bitten, the customer service representative at a vitamin company went to work.

Shortly after arriving, she started vomiting. Her boss sent her home, but on the way she was sick and had to pull over at a gas station.

She couldn't stop throwing up and passed out. When she came round, she drove herself to the White River Medical Center in Batesville.

Allergic to the baby spider's poison, her kidneys failed, she ballooned two stone in weight and she had convulsions in her stomach every five minutes - which made doctors think she was pregnant (pictured in hospital recovering from her bite)

Doctors gave her blood tests and dye injections which indicated she had the poison from the notorious brown recluse spider in her body.

The arachnid is one of North Americas three venomous spiders, alongside the black widow and Chilean recluse.

I cant believe a baby spider nearly killed me. Claressa Coleman, 29

It is believed the spider which sank its toxic fangs into Mrs Coleman, was only a baby, despite its impact being far from small.

The spider had bitten directly into an artery, injecting its poison straight into her bloodstream, so it raced through her body.

Allergic to the spider's poison

By chance, she was also allergic to its powerful poison and spent almost a month in hospital fighting the effects of the venom.

Forced to have surgery, when her dead skin was cut out from her shoulder and ulcers formed, both her kidneys then failed.

Her mother, Michelle Sanders, 57, was called and her family, including husband Allen, 33, were told she was very ill.

Mrs Coleman, who has little memory of her time in hospital, said: 'I couldnt believe it. I realised instantly that Id been bitten in my sleep.

She was unaware of the tell-tale symptoms of a brown recluse bite - a black mark where she was bitten and bouts of vomiting - until blood tests confirmed doctors' suspicion

Speaking for the first time about her ordeal, the arachnophobe said: 'I cant believe a baby spider nearly killed me' (pictured: the hole in her arm from when dead skin was cut out)

BROWN RECLUSE SPIDERS They are also known as violin spiders due to the markings on their back. The spiders are known for their powerful poison but are also said to be shy and not aggressive, with bites only happening because they share the same living space with humans. The spiders favour living in dark corners and also live under furniture, boxes and books. They then generally move around at night for prey. Bites from the spiders often result in a pimple-like swelling, although the worst ones can led to large lesions where surrounding tissue dies. Advertisement

'I was experiencing convulsions in my stomach. They were coming every five minutes.

'The doctors asked if I was pregnant, thinking the convulsions might be labour. But I wasnt, it was just the spiders venom spreading through me.'

Sent home with antibiotics

Initially sent home with antibiotics - which she also had a surprise allergic reaction to - by June 29, she was back in hospital.

Mrs Coleman, who was hooked up to a dialysis machine, was sedated and had the dead skin cut from her arm.

She added: 'By this point the hole in my arm was growing. You could fit your pinkie finger in it.'

As the poison took hold, her blood pressure dropped and her body swelled - the result of it fighting the poisons.

Her heart was suffering and she ballooned two stone in weight. She was hooked up to a ventilator and pumped full of antibiotics.

Newfound terror of spiders

Finally, after about three weeks, Mrs Coleman's body began to fight the infection and she gradually came to.

And in mid-July  with a newfound terror of spiders  she was allowed home. But she was still very weak.

Mrs Coleman said: 'There has been a long-term impact on my kidneys. Now I am just recovering and thankful I am alive.'

Mrs Coleman is now raising funds for the money spent during her stay in hospital. Anyone wanting to donate can do so here.
Almost 100,000 British teenagers are now so obese their weight problem cannot be reversed without surgery, experts have warned.

Researchers found 2.4 per cent of 13 to 18-year-olds are 'super obese'  and argue they should be given free weight-loss surgery on the NHS.

If all 90,500 who meet the criteria for bariatric surgery  which costs around 6,000  went under the knife, it could cost the taxpayers 543million.

Study leader Professor Russell Viner, of University College London, said that denying adolescents surgical intervention could cost the health service more in the long-term.

Being obese puts you at a higher risk for health problems such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes.

If all 'super obese' teenagers had surgery it would cost the NHS 543million (stock photo)

Professor Viner told The Sun: 'We know once young people are super-obese it is extremely difficult for them to lose weight any other way than by surgery. The body resets its fat-sensing system and actively fights them trying to lose weight.'

OBESITY IN YOUNGSTERS: A GLOBAL PROBLEM The number of obese children in the US has more than tripled since the 1970s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Today, about one in five school-aged children (ages 6 to 19) falls into the 'obese' category. And one quarter of Australia's teenagers are overweight or obese, a report by the Cancer Council and National Heart Foundation revealed. According to the World Health Organization, childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century. The prevalence has increased at an alarming rate. Globally, in 2015 the number of overweight children under the age of five, was estimated to be over 42 million. The problem is increased at an alarming rate and affecting many low- and middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. Almost half of all overweight children under five lived in Asia and one quarter lived in Africa. Advertisement

Health charities have warned that government policy to tackle the obesity crisis, and its burden on the NHS, is failing.

Diabetes costs the NHS almost 9billion a year and one in six hospital beds at any one time are occupied by someone with the condition.

NICE guidelines

A quarter of the UK population is now obese, fuelling a rise in cases of type 2 diabetes, as well as heart disease, fatty liver disease and cancer, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

One in 20 people in the UK has type 2 diabetes, a progressive disease that can cause heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure and limb amputations.

Every year, 24,000 people die prematurely because of the condition. Every week, the NHS carries out 100 amputations caused by type 2 diabetes.

NICE recommends that all patients with a BMI of 35 or over who have recent-onset type 2 diabetes should be assessed for surgery.

Patients must have tried and failed to achieve clinically beneficial weight loss by all other appropriate non-surgical methods and be fit for surgery.

Guidelines also states that weight loss surgery is also beneficial for people with a BMI of 30-34.9 who have recent-onset type 2 diabetes that is very poorly controlled.

He said: 'The financial implications of obesity are huge  10 per cent of the NHS budget is used to treat diabetes and its complications alone. It is a major issue, if not the major issue, for the health service in the coming years.'

435 per patient cookery classes

The news comes it was revealed earlier this month that obese people at risk of diabetes will be sent on cookery and exercise classes.

More than two million people are expected to get the controversial referrals, which will cost the taxpayer billions of pounds at 435 per patient.

The initiative follows guidance from the National Institute of Care Excellence, who want everyone over 40 to be screened and monitored for the illness.

And a recent study from the University of Birmingham found that people who are 'fat but fit' are still more likely to develop fatal diseases including heart failure, coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease, which causes strokes.
Yolanda Hadid has revealed she was originally told by doctors that her Lyme disease was myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 53, says she initially misdiagnosed in 2011 due to her extreme fatigue, which can be a symptom of both illnesses.

Ahead of the release of her new book, she has spoken out about how her six-year battle with the disease made her want to die, but found the strength to go on when she thought of her three children.

Yolanda is the mother of supermodels Gigi, 22, and Bella, 20, as well as Anwar, 18  the latter two of whom also suffer from the same tick-transmitted disease.

She said: 'In the beginning stages you just go 'Okay', you're taught to believe the doctors are always right. So whatever the doctors said [I just went] 'Oh, I'm fine!'

'So you keep pushing, pushing, pushing. And then days turn into weeks, weeks turn into months, and months turned into years.'

Scroll down for video

Yolanda Hadid, 53, confesses Lyme disease made her contemplate death but her children kept her grounded, a story she reveals in her new book Believe Me

WHAT IS LYME DISEASE? Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria that is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. The most common symptoms of the disease are fever, headache, fatigue and a skin rash called erythema migrans. The disease can typically be treated by several weeks of oral antibiotics. But if left untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart and nervous symptoms and be deadly. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU ARE INFECTED? During the first three to 30 days of infection, these symptoms may occur: Fever

Chills

Headache

Fatigue

Muscle and joint aches

Swollen lymph nodes

Erythema migrans (EM) rash The rash occurs in approximately 80 percent of infected people. It can expand to up to 12 inches (30 cm), eventually clearing and giving off the appearance of a target or a 'bull's-eye'. Later symptoms of Lyme disease include: Severe headaches and neck stiffness

Additional EM rashes

Arthritis with joint pain and swelling

Facial or Bell's Plasy

Heart palpitations

Problems with short-term memory

Nerve pain Source: CDC Advertisement

The Dutch-born model first began to have symptoms in 2011, which included joint pain, exhaustion, insomnia and anxiety.

Her fatigue was so severe walking from the bedroom to the bathroom was nearly impossible and her illness eventually forced her to spend 22 hours a day in bed.

She was initially given a diagnosis of CFS in Los Angeles, California.

The illness is spread by ticks infected with the bacteria Borrelia, but the ticks are so small  often the size of a full stop on a page  that many people dont notice they have been bitten.

Yolanda was finally given the correct diagnosis in 2012 after she was admitted to hospital in Belgium after suffering severe migraines and dark circles around her eyes.

'I remember going to the Belgium airport I mean they had to push me in a wheelchair that's how debilitated I was,' she told People magazine.

'So it was a long six weeks of waiting, and once you get an answer it's like the light went on. And you go "See!" I told everybody I had an infection in my brain, and they were looking at my like I'm crazy.'

Yolanda and Bella are among a host of celebrities who have spoken out about their battles with Lyme disease including Martine McCutcheon and Avril Lavigne.

Spotted quickly, Lyme disease is halted with antibiotics. But if left untreated for years, its impact can be devastating  in 25 per cent of cases, the nervous system is affected, causing numbness and memory problems.

Experts warn the illness could be officially classed as an epidemic within the next decade.

'I cannot live one more day'

In a video for InStyle, Yolanda opened up about her years-long battle with chronic Lyme disease that she says pushed her to the darkest moment of her life.

'I was naked in the ocean and just feeling so sick and at the end of my rope, that I was just trying to be one with the universe,' she revealed.

'It was like, Okay just take me, I cannot live one more day with this pain,' she confessed.

'But in that same moment I also had a flash of my three children, going like no, that is such a selfish move to just let go and quit.

Yolanda shared this moment and many more in her book Believe Me: My Battle with the Invisible Disability of Lyme Disease released earlier this month.

Pictured left to right, Gigi, Yolanda and Bella attend the book signing of Believe Me: My Battle with the Invisible Disability of Lyme Disease

The 53-year-old was supported by her family including Anwar, pictured left, who has also had Lyme disease along with Bella

Number one fan: Bella shared snaps of her mother's book debut on Instagram in support

'It's hard for people to understand'

In her book, she reveals how her daughter and young Vogue cover star Bella jets across the globe for high fashion modelling gigs but often returns home crying in pain.

'This child suffers every day, seven days a week. But it's really hard for people to understand because she forces herself, pushes herself to go to work, and I have her at home crying and in pain and I have to treat her. It's very deceiving in a way,' she explained.

In the video, the blonde Dutch model went on to explain how her son Anwar suffers with the disease.

Children Bella and Anwar, who also suffer from Lyme disease, cuddle with their mom for a heart-warming snap on Yolanda's Instagram

'The symptoms of Lyme disease can be anything. For Anwar he had this sinus infection all the time and joint pain,' she said.

She says doctors would dismiss his illness as 'growing' pains. But Yolanda knew that his infections meant something much more sinister.

'You go through the whole system so many times until, as a mom, you have to follow your intuition. It's not normal for a child to always have a sinus infection. We really have to look at our children from a perspective of oh, what if the doctor isn't right?' she said.
While going to the gym is great for your health, few of us think about the millions of bacteria lingering on the weights, machines and yoga mats.

Fitness centers are a breeding ground for potentially deadly bacteria, which thrive in moist environments, with so many people dripping in sweat in close quarters.

These bacteria can cause warts, rashes and infections that can travel as deep as your bones.

Taking simple precautionary measures, such as wearing shoes in the shower and wiping down exercise equipment, can go a long way in protecting your body from harmful viruses and infections, such as MRSA and ringworm.

Here, an expert reveals some of the dangers of bacteria found in gyms that you should know about, and provides tips on how best to avoid them.

KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF

New York dermatologist Dr Arash Akhavan said that staph bacteria, which can lead to a MRSA infection, are among the biggest threats to communal gym users.

'In terms of the most serious danger, that would be staph,' he said. Dr Akhavan added: 'That's very easy to contract, especially through sweaty skin.'

Staph bacteria live in about one-third of the population, but they are usually harmless.

Cut out as much physical contact as possible at the gym to avoid getting a MRSA infection, which results in a grouping of pimples filled with pus on your skin

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN WHILE WORKING OUT Sweating excessively during a workout can be harsh on your skin. And leaving sweaty clothes on after your workout is also not good for your skin, as it can lead to acne. The following are hygiene tips for how to keep your skin clear if you exercise frequently: When you sweat for an extended period of time, a layer of dead skin can build up under your workout clothes. Washing off with a mild gel-based cleanser and applying a light moisturizer before your workout can lessen the harmful affects of this.

If you workout while wearing makeup, your pores are likely to clog, so make sure to remove all of it before you start to sweat.

When you sweat, the oil that your body produces can foster bacteria and worsen acne. After your workout you should take your exercise clothes off immediately and shower as soon as possible. Advertisement

However, if one person's staph bacteria enter another person's body via a cut or scrape on their skin, a resulting infection can prove deadly.

People usually notice these infections when they see swollen bumps resembling pimples on their skin.

It may seem like a minor rash at first, but these infected areas can quickly turn into hazards that require surgical draining.

And the bacteria that cause these infections can eventually make their way to a person's bones or bloodstream, resulting in sometimes-fatal infections.

To decrease your chances of developing a MRSA infection, make sure all your cuts and scrapes are thoroughly covered and avoid as much physical contact with others as possible while working out.

And taking these measures can also help you avoid an E. coli infection, which can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhea, cramping and nausea.

ALWAYS BRING YOUR OWN YOGA MAT

'The biggest thing we see infections from is yoga mats,' Dr Akhavan said.

He explained that the mats are classified as 'fomites', which are objects known to carry infections.

'Bring your own or use a towel' to separate your body from a gym yoga mat, he recommended.

Using gym-owned yoga mats can lead to fungal infections, an example of which is tinea, also known as ringworm.

Using yoga mats that belong to the gym can heighten your risk of getting a fungal infection, such as the ringworm infection pictured here

Tinea is caused by yeast that can be found on your skin. An infection occurs when this yeast grows out of control and the result is a rash.

Ringworm rashes include patches that can be pink, white, brown or red. They can be lighter or darker than the skin surrounding them. These spots are most common on one's neck, chest, back and arms.

Another way to avoid a fungal infection is to make sure you take off your sweaty exercise gear immediately after your workout. 'Cool off and dry off as quickly as possible,' Dr Akhavan suggested.

WEAR SHOES IN THE SHOWER AND LOCKER ROOM

Another danger is that of developing warts. One can do this by touching surfaces in gym showers and locker rooms.

This does not mean that you should avoid the shower completely, though. 'It's safe to shower as long as the gym is relatively hygienic,' Dr Akhavan said. But he explained that wearing shoes in these environments is critical.

And people should also try to touch as few surfaces in these areas as possible with their bare skin.

Wear shoes when you shower and avoid touching shower and locker room walls and surfaces, as this can lead to warts on your feet and hands

'You can bring them home,' he said, referring to the fact that, if you shower in a gym without shoes and then you go home and walk around barefoot, you can expose others in your home to warts.

Warts that occur on the bottom of one's foot are called plantar warts, while those on the hands are called palmer warts. They are growths caused by infections on the top layer of one's skin.

Plantar and palmer warts are caused by a strain of human papillomavirus, the most common STD.

DON'T USE HOT TUBS AND SAUNAS IN PUBLIC GYMS

It is best to avoid being in watery spaces, including hot tubs and saunas, at the gym, Dr Akhavan said.

'They are a big source of folliculitis that could [lead to] a pretty dramatic rash,' Dr Akhavan said. The rash that he is referring to occurs when one's hair follicles become inflamed.

He added that he once saw a folliculitis rash spread all over a patient's body and that the patient then had to be hospitalized and treated with antibiotics.

It can be easy to contract folliculitis in public hot tubs and saunas. Folliculitis is a skin infection, pictured here, which can eventually lead to hospitalization

Folliculitis is most common on one's beard, back, arms, buttocks and legs. A folliculitis rash looks similar to a grouping of red pimples, all of which have hair in the center.

They frequently itch or burn, and the pimples may have pus inside of them.

DISINFECT ALL WORK OUT EQUIPMENT BEFORE TOUCHING IT

Lastly, rhinoviruses, which are responsible for most common colds, can be found on nearly half of all machines that require hand contact that have not been cleaned thoroughly enough.

A study by the National Institutes of Health found that exercise equipment in communal gyms is teeming with viral bacteria.

A study has found that about half of the exercise equipment people touch in gyms are home to viral bacteria

For this reason, you should wipe down treadmills, ellipticals, weights and all other hand-contact workout machines before handling them to decrease your chances of getting sick post-workout.

In many gyms, there are stations with disinfecting wipes for use near cardio machines, and a thorough sweep of the equipment you use can save you from future coughing and sneezing fits.
American physician assistants are being enticed over to the United Kingdom amid staffing shortages - with promises of long vacations in Europe.

Physician associates, medical professionals who assist doctors in making a diagnosis and analyzing test results, train for two years, roughly a quarter of the training of a doctor.

It means that while they are qualified to prescribe and diagnose, it must all be done under supervision.

But that is changing in both the US and the UK as both nations struggle with demand for medics.

The NHS plans to recruit up to 3,200 PAs to perform minor operations and monitor wards - primarily from the US, which has more than 115,000 of them (file image)

Given staff shortages in the US, they are being given more autonomy to prescribe and operate. Now the UK is looking to recruit from the 115,000 US physician assistants.

The National Health Service (NHS) is offering 1,000 ($1,350) to cover their relocation, 41 days paid vacation a year, and free flights home during holidays.

Ultimately, officials say the plan is to recruit up to 3,200 PAs to perform minor operations and monitor wards.

The move has sparked outrage, with senior medics and patient groups warning it could trigger a slippery slope towards relying on under-qualified transplants to perform essential duties.

British health officials insist the PAs would not be replacing doctors, though they would be allowed to perform the same tasks.

According to recruitment materials, foreign PAs would earn 30,000 ($40,460) a year.

The pamphlet continues: 'This means that you will have ample time to explore the rest of the UK where there are many fascinating and historic sites and exciting cities and towns.

'The UK is also perfectly placed for taking trips short trips overseas to other countries.

'You can reach most European destinations in just a few hours from London which makes the UK a fantastic travel hub from which to explore Europe and even further afield.'

The plans come amid similar moves in the US to give PAs more autonomy.

As of this year, there were 115,000 trained physician associates in America, up almost six-fold since 1990, when there were 20,000.

States are increasingly easing restrictions on PAs, primarily allowing them to prescribe almost anything.

Last year, every state made at least one change to legislation that allowed PAs to have more power.

Doctors who supported the bills insist physician assistants should be allowed more scope as clinicians, since they are already trained to operate, diagnose, prescribe and work with patients.
Rohingya people who have fled Myanmar were labelled a 'serious security threat' by the Indian government as it tried to justify moves to deport up to 40,000 of the refugees on Monday.

Officials claimed in the Supreme Court that there was evidence that there are potentially-dangerous extremists living among the Muslim-faith community that have settled in many Indian cities.

The home ministry said it would confidentially share intelligence information with the court showing Rohingya links with Pakistan-based militants, in a bid to get clearance for the mass deportation plans.

The United Nations says there are 16,000 registered Rohingya in India, but many more are undocumented. The government puts the figure at 40,000

But a lawyer representing the Rohingya people said the decision to deport the ethnic group was discriminatory, as the court heard a petition filed on behalf of two Rohingya refugees challenging the government plan.

Mukesh Mittal, a senior home ministry official, said the Supreme Court must let the government take a decision in Indian interests because of Rohingya links to extremist groups.

'The court has no business to interfere in such matters of what they call illegal immigrants or illegal migrants,' the government said in an affidavit.

A Rohingya Muslim girl walks in front of their shanty at a camp for refugees in Hyderabad

The case is being heard as Bangladesh struggles with more than 410,000 Rohingya who have flooded across the border since August 25 when the military in Buddhist-dominated Myanmar launched a crackdown on the minority Muslim group.

Countries across the region fear they will feel the fallout from the crisis.

The petition was filed after India's junior home minister, Kiren Rijiju, said last month that state governments had been ordered to identify and deport illegal immigrants, including Rohingya Muslims.

Rijiju said India would even deport all Rohingya refugees, including some 16,500 who have been registered by the UN refugee agency as refugees.

A Rohingya Muslim woman holds a child as she pumps water at a camp for refugees in New Delhi

'Some of the Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the national security of India,' Mittal said in a written submission to the Supreme Court.

The statement highlighted the 'serious potential' for an 'eruption of violence against the Buddhists who are Indian citizens who stay on Indian soil'.

It also said the government had intelligence indicating links between Rohingya refugees and Islamic State and other extremist groups.

Rohingya community leaders have denied any link with Islamist extremism.

A Rohingya Muslim boy drinks water at a camp for refugees in New Delhi. India's government said Monday that it has evidence there are extremists who pose a threat to the country's security among the Rohingya Muslims who have fled Myanmar

The statement came in response to a petition filed at the Supreme Court challenging a government decision to deport the Rohingya, many of whom have been in India for the past decade.

Many experts have questioned where India could send the Rohingya.

Human Rights Watch urged India, the world's biggest democracy, to follow the international principle of non-refoulement which prohibits sending back refugees to a place where their lives are in danger.

'India should not be behaving like the abusive Myanmar government,' said HRW's South Asia director Meenakshi Ganguly.

A Rohingya Muslim girl Yasmin Ara stands in front of her shanty at a camp for refugees in Hyderabad

'There should be no collective punishment. If there is credible evidence of militancy against individuals, that should be brought before the court,' she told news agency AFP.

The United Nations says there are 16,000 registered Rohingya in India, but many more are undocumented. The government puts the figure at 40,000.

About 7,000 of them live in shanties in India's Jammu region in the Himalayas where they say they have faced hostility from the majority Hindu community there.

The government of Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi said last month it had asked state authorities to identify and deport Rohingya living in their territory.

Rohingya have been leaving mainly Buddhist Myanmar in steady numbers for years before the military crackdown last month that opened the floodgates, with thousands ending up in India

It says the Rohingya cannot use the 1951 Refugee Convention or the 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees since India was not a signatory to either.

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, representing the Rohingya at the Supreme Court hearing, said the Indian constitution 'provides equal rights and liberty to every person' including non-citizens.

Myanmar claims the community are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and denies them citizenship.

Rohingya Muslim rest in front of a grocery shop at a camp for refugees in Hyderabad, India, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. India's government said Monday that it has evidence there are extremists who pose a threat to the country's security among the Rohingya Muslims who have fled Myanmar and settled in many Indian cities. India's Supreme Court was hearing a petition filed on behalf of two Rohingya refugees challenging a government decision to deport the ethnic group from India. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

The stateless Rohingya have been fleeing Myanmar for decades.

While Bangladesh has been the main destination for Rohingya over the years, some have ended up in India and Nepal. There are also some in Pakistan.

The latest exodus began after Rohingya militants attacked police posts in Rakhine state on August 25 triggering a military backlash. The UN has said the army action could amount to ethnic cleansing.

Many people took to Twitter about the issue, including Sagarika Ghose who labelled it 'a sad overturning of India's ideals'

Mohammad Salimullah, one of the two Rohingya petitioners, said the authorities in New Delhi had always been helpful so he was hopeful the court would support the refugees.

'In the five or six years that we have been here, we have never felt that we are foreigners here nor have we ever felt any kind of fear,' Salimullah told AFP ahead of the case.

'We feel helpless and hopeless,' said Rohingya youth leader Ali Johar, who came to India in 2012 and lives with his family in a Delhi settlement.

'The world's largest democracy has given us shelter but they should handle this situation more empathetically.'

Modi's government has been criticised by activists for not speaking out against Myanmar's recent military offensive against Rohingya insurgents, and right-wing groups in India have begun vilifying Rohingya living there.

The hearing will continue next month.

Intel agencies claim Rohingyas using Syria-like tactics to get to India

With the security tightened along the India-Myanmar border, intelligence agencies have warned that the Rohingyas may use sea routes to sneak into the country with the help of professional traffickers.

'The Rohingiyas are desperate to sneak into Indian areas such as Bengal. And organised traffickers are likely to use sea routes from Myanmar and Bangladesh to push them into India,' senior intelligence officials told Mail Today.

Owing to largescale migration since 2012, thousands of Rohingyas have been living in Assam, WB, Jammu, UP and Delhi camps

'All security agencies concerned have to remain guarded against any such attempt.'

The officials said the traffickers involved with the Rohingiyas may use their experience in the Mediterranean where they used large boats and high-speed rafts to send refugees fleeing Syria into Europe in large numbers.

These routes were also used by a chunk of Islamic State supporters also, they pointed out. There have been sporadic incidents where some Rohingiya famlies tried to sneak into Indian territory using the sea route but such attempts have been few and at a much smaller scale.

'The story could be different this time, and much organised,' the intelligence official said.

Rohingya refugees travel on a boat as others walk on a muddy path after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border

The agencies are also keeping an eye on the movement from the southern part of Myanmar from where the Rohingiyas may try to enter the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and occupy the various uninhabited islands there.

Already, the Border Security Force and Assam Rifles have increased their vigil on the border with Myanmar to prevent the influx of the Rohingiyas and most of them are diverted to Bangladesh, which has also imposed harsh restrictions on them.

The intelligence sources also said that the traffickers and Rohingiyas are keen to reach the state of Bengal as the government is more sympathetic to the displaced and has already announced that it would provide shelter to the refugees from Myanmar.

According to UNHCR more than 400 thousand Rohingya refugees have fled Myanmar from violence over the last few weeks, most trying to cross the border and reach Bangladesh

However, the Centre has raised a red flag on the security threat from Rohingiyas and the government is developing a mechanism to deport around 40,000 Rohingyas allegedly living in the country illegally.

Minister of state for home affairs Kiren Rijiju stated the government's resolve in this regard more than once.

The officials point out that after the war broke out in Syria and Iraq, more than two million refugees sneaked into Europe with most of them packed up in boats provided to them by human traffickers.

Once the refugees touched shores in Europe, they spread out across the continent with the help of human traffickers, officials said. They also attributed the influx to an increase in terrorist incident on the continent.

Reports suggest that outfits like Al Qaeda, ISIS and Jamaat-ud Dawa (a front of the Lashkar-e Taiba) of Hafiz Saeed sent their workers to Rohingya camps in Indonesia, Bangladesh and, possibly, India.

These groups entered Rohingya camps on the pretext of providing humanitarian help, but their intention, intelligence agencies suspect, is to identify gullible youths and recruit them as jihadi operators for their outfits.

In Myanmar, Rohingiyas have their terrorists groups such as the Aqa Mul Mujahideen (AMM), which is believed to be an offshoot of the Harkat-ul Jihad Islami- Arakan (HuJI-A) and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army.

India has also extended humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh by flying down food and other essential items to the neighbour to help it deal with the huge influx of Rohingiyas.

India has also dispatched relief material to Bangaldesh be delivered in multiple consignments under 'Operation Insaniyat' using its C-17 heavy lift aircraft.
Nearly 56 years after its foundation was laid, the Sardar Sarovar Dam has finally become a reality with Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicating it to the nation.

Modi, on his 67th birthday, unveiled the plaque dedicating the mega project to the nation amid chanting of vedic hymns by students. He also performed a puja at the site in the Narmada district.

The project has been mired in controversy and has faced stiff opposition from villagers affected by the project.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being presented a bow and arrow by a group of tribals during a public meeting in Dabhoi on Sunday after inauguration of the Sardar Sarovar Dam

Union minister Nitin Gadkari, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani were among the dignitaries present. Addressing a rally some 55 kms from the dam site in Dabhoi town of Vadodara district, the PM said: 'No other project in the world has faced such hurdles as the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada river.

'But we were determined to complete the project.'

Dedicating the dam to the nation, he added, 'Many people conspired to stop this project. But we were determined not to take make it a political battle. I have knowledge ('kacha chittha') of everyone who tried to stall this project, but I will not name them as I do not want to go on that route.'

The foundation stone of the dam was laid on April 5, 1961 by first the country's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. But it took 56 years to finally complete its construction due to court cases and protests by the affected villagers

A policeman snatches a banner from an activist during the Narmada Bachao Andolan's protest demanding for the adequate rehabilitaion of Sardar Sarovar Dam project

'A massive misinformation campaign was launched against the project. The World Bank, which had earlier agreed to fund the project, refused to give loan for it raising environmental concerns. But, with or without the World Bank, we completed the massive project on our own,' he said.

The dam aims to provide drinking water to 131 urban centres and 9,633 villages (53 per cent of total 18,144 villages of Gujarat) and irrigation facilities for 18.54 hectares of land covering 3,112 villages under 73 talukas in 15 districts.

Modi's visit, which has added significance as assembly elections are due in Gujarat by the year-end, is the second in less than a week after he hosted Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the state and launched the bullet train project.

Earlier, the prime minister had stressed that the project will start a new chapter of prosperity for Gujarat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers to Narmada River during the inauguration of Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadiya in Narmada district

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani had called the project as Gujarat's lifeline, noting that the agricultural income and production by farmers in the state had more than doubled because of it.

The foundation stone of the dam was laid on April 5, 1961 by first the country's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. But it took 56 years to finally complete its construction due to court cases and protests by the affected villagers.

On Friday too, a group of activists and affected tribal families had protested in the national Capital. Another protesting group, led by activist Medha Patkar-led National Alliance of People's Movement, staged a dharna outside the Mantralaya gates in Maharashtra.

The activists complained that the villagers were being forcefully evacuated to temporary shelters, and that the rehabilitation sites remain in-habitable and lack basic facilities.
Advertisement

In a farewell befitting to a war hero, Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh was cremated at Brar Square in the Delhi Cantonment area with full state honours in the presence of the top political and military leadership of the NDA government.

His son Arvind Singh told IAF officials that he was proud that his father was given such a fitting farewell.

The event was attended by the who's who of the country  from the President, Prime Minister and the services chiefs  who stayed with him during his last moments to the funeral.

Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat, Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa paying their last respects to the Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh

The mortal remains of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh being taken on a gun carriage to the Brar Square for his last rites with state honours, in New Delhi

Born on April 3, 1914, Manekshaw's (right) military career spanned four decades, from the British era and World War II, to the wars against China and Pakistan. Singh (left) is the only officer ever to be named Marshal of the Indian Air Force and he died at the age of 98

A tale of two marshals

However, a sharp contrast can be made to the funeral of India's greatest military leader Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw who led the country to its greatest war victory over Pakistan in 1971, but was neglected by the then UPA government when he died in 2008.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

After his death in Ooty on June 27, 2008, condolences were offered by the government functionaries, but right from the then President Pratibha Patil to the supreme commander of the armed forces, the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his defence minister A K Antony and the three Service chiefs, none attended the 'state funeral'.

After the neglect by the UPA government turned into a controversy, the Defence Ministry tried to hide behind protocols to avoid the embarrassment.

But the military community was hurt by the snub.

However, the arrangements made by the government in Arjan Singh's funeral are being seen as befitting for the stature of the IAF officer who commanded the Air Force in the 1965 war and ensured that his men won the battle of skies.

Singh is the only officer ever to be named Marshal of the Indian Air Force and he died at the age of 98

Modi leads tributes to true Indian hero

Tributes poured in on Sunday for late Indian war hero Marshal Arjan Singh, who rose to prominence during World War II and for his leadership in the country's 1965 war against Pakistan.

Singh, the only officer ever to be named Marshal of the Indian Air Force owing to his achievements, died after suffering a cardiac arrest at the age of 98 at an army hospital in Delhi on Saturday.

The Indian government announced that a state funeral would be held for Singh on Monday.

'Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF) was a hero of World War II and won our nation's gratitude for his military leadership in the War of 1965,' Indian President Ram Nath Kovind said in a statement.

'He served the nation with distinction and was the first and only officer of the IAF who was honoured with the five-star rank as Marshal of the Air Force,' he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned Singh on Twitter.

'India will never forget excellent leadership of Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh in 1965, when the IAF saw substantial action,' he said.

Singh first rose to prominence after he received a distinguished flying cross for his contributions during the Second World War from the last Viceroy of pre-Independence India, Lord Louis Mountbatten.

'During the Second World War, Arjan Singh flew close support missions during the Imphal campaign and also was part of the team that assisted the advance of allied forces to Rangoon in today's Myanmar,' a report in The Hindu newspaper said.

'For his rile in successfully leading the squadron during combat, Singh received the distinguished flying cross in 1944,' it added.

After retiring from the IAF, Singh served as the Indian ambassador to Switzerland and the Vatican.
Drivers in Scotland are more likely to have a motoring conviction than in any other region in the UK, new data has suggested.

Insurance comparison site MoneySupermarket - which asks for driving offence information from motorists when completing a quote online - found that 2.75 per cent of licence holders in Scotland currently has a conviction, after reviewing 75 million individual quotes ran on its site in the last three years.

Of all the driving conviction types, speeding is by far and away the most common, representing 72.23 per cent of all offences, according to the data.

Driving convictions revealed: Scotland tops the list for having the most motorists with driving convictions

Some 275 per 10,000 Scottish drivers have an active conviction on their licence, the the study found.

That's higher than any other region in the UK, with Welsh motorists second (242 per 10,000), closely following by those in the South West (238 per 10,000).

Comparatively, only 154 per 10,000 Greater London drivers have a driving conviction, the comparison site claimed.

MoneySupermarket said the analysis proved that no matter where we live, we're a 'nation in a rush behind the wheel', with speeding dominating the driving convictions leaderboard.

The price comparison website analysed 'declared' driving offences across millions of car insurance quotes from 1st May 2014 to 30th April 2017 as part of the study.

It found that, of those looking for a car insurance quote, 155 per 10,000 drivers have been caught speeding.

The next most common type of conviction is for an insurance-related offence while drink and drug-driving offences rose to the third most frequent after a rise in prevalence in the country.

Speeding is far and away the most common conviction in the UK, representing almost three quarters of all offences

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON DRIVING CONVICTIONS? 1. Speeding: 72.23% of drivers with a conviction 2. Licence or insurance issues: 8.27% 3. Drink and drug driving: 3.67% 4. Careless driving: 3.2% 5. Situational (traffic direction and signs): 3.12% 6. Mobile phone: 1.9% 7. Licence: 0.97% Source: MoneySuperMarket

According to the data review, tougher laws around mobile phone use at the wheel as seen this type of conviction drop lower than previous data had suggested.

Men were found to be more likely to have a driving conviction than women, though the rate of convictions for men is falling.

When it comes to age, those aged 25 to 29 are most likely to have been convicted of a driving offence, followed by the 20 to 24 year old age group.

Kevin Pratt, consumer affairs expert at MoneySupermarket, said: 'Flouting the law is not only dangerous, it could also cost you, as having a conviction on your licence will bump up the cost of your car insurance at renewal by around 3 per cent.

'Those who have been caught and seen their premiums increase should shop around on renewal, as another provider may offer a smaller increase.'
She is battling to put her life back together after allegedly being snatched by a pair of female kidnappers while out jogging last November.

But although reclusive California 'supermom' Sherri Papini smiled last week as she made a rare foray from her Shasta Lake home to collect her two young children from daycare, her recovery has been far from easy.

On August 11, police were called to her home to perform a welfare check after worried neighbors reported hearing screaming coming from the property she shares with her family.

In July, DailyMail.com revealed that the young mother is living a reclusive existence as she attempts to overcome last year's ordeal.

The pretty blonde shed 18 pounds during the abduction but, seen here in pictures exclusively obtained by DailyMailTV, finally appears to have regained some of the weight she lost.

Rare sighting: Sherri Papini was spotted in a rare venture outside of her Shasta Lakes home to pick up her two children from daycare, nearly a year after she was kidnapped

All smiles: The 35-year-old mother-of-two appeared to be in good spirits as her 'signature' long blonde hair, hacked off during the abduction, growing back, grows back

Her 'signature' long blonde hair, hacked off during the abduction, is now growing back but there was no sign of the brand that was allegedly burned into her skin by the kidnappers.

The 35-year-old disappeared while out jogging a mile from her home on November 2 and was found three weeks later, wandering bound and bloodied on a road just off the Interstate 5.

Husband Keith, 33, who works for the local branch of Best Buy, said at the time that his wife had suffered a broken nose, had been beaten and appeared to have been branded by her kidnappers.

The mother-of-two, dubbed a 'supermom' by her sister Sheila Koester, 36, during the massive police search, has not yet spoken about her ordeal but has provided Shasta police with an account of what happened.

After being reunited with her husband, Papini returned to the family home which occupies a shady plot of land on the outskirts of Shasta Lake; a small town of 10,000 people in Northern California.

Since then, she has rarely been seen and is described by neighbors as living a 'reclusive' existence while also trying to put her life back together, according to her father-in-law Kenneth, 64.

Supermom: Papini - mother to Tyler, five, and Violet, three - is described by neighbors as living a 'reclusive' existence while also trying to put her life back together since her ordeal

Papini (pictured with her husband Keith, 33) may have suffered a setback last month when police were called to her home after a reported altercation

The Papinis are said to be typically 'quiet neighbors' but shocked nearby residents after 'very loud noises' were heard coming from their home around 11pm on August 11

Police logs show Papini's neighbor reported 'very loud noises' and screaming around 11pm on August 11

But her recovery appeared to have suffered a setback last month, with police called to her home on August 11 after a neighbor heard an altercation at the property.

A log of the incident, obtained by DailyMail.com, reads: 'RP [reporting party] req[uested] W/C [welfare check] on two listed neighbors due to hearing very loud noises (like a Jaws type movie) coming from their house last night around 2300 hrs.

'RP's father heard screaming 20 mins before RP heard this noise.'

Neighbor Linda Logan, 31, who made the call, told DailyMail.com that she became concerned because hearing noise from the Papini property is so unusual.

She said: 'The reason I called for a welfare check is because they are so quiet and private. I went out for a smoke around 11.32pm but about two minutes later, I heard their TV on crazy loud.

'I thought it was odd because they have two young kids but by 11.38pm it stopped. The next day, I talked to my dad and he said he had heard screaming about 20 minutes earlier.'

Retired police officer Jim Ferrario, 55, who occupies a second house on the same plot of land sitting directly behind the Papini home, added: 'If I was still a cop, I would have gone to investigate. It sounded like she was freaking out.'

Linda continued: 'I called for a welfare check around noon the next day because it was really weird - they are such quiet neighbors and it was so late and they have two very young children.'

Papini was spotted outside of her Northern California home in a small town of 10,000 people - Neighbors say she is hardly ever seen leaving her house ever since her ordeal

No action was taken by police, although the call out was recorded in the official police log.

In response to DailyMail.com's request for comment, Papini's spokeperson said:

'Keith Papini was watching Game of Thrones a little too loudly at 11PM, and because the Papinis are so beloved by their neighbors, a call was placed after someone heard "screaming" and the sounds of a 'Jaws type movie' coming from the Papinis' home. A wellness check was performed the next day to which no further inquiry or action was taken. This can also be verified by the appropriate authorities.'

But the visit is not the first time that officers from the local police department have been called to the property, according to records obtained by DailyMail.com.

Logs included in the Papini kidnap case file, part of which was made available to DailyMail.com via a public records request, include a note of an incident in September 2010 in which the mother-of-two believed she was victim of an online scam.

Papini made a second call to police just eight months later, in June 2011, claiming that an 'unknown suspect' had obtained her bank details.

Detective Sergeant Brian Jackson, one of the lead investigators on the Papini case, told DailyMail.com that both cases were closed with no criminal filings but said neither 'appear to have any connection' to the kidnappers.

The same file also reveals Papini had crossed paths with law enforcement prior to marrying first husband Richard Dreyfus, 32, in 2007 and current spouse Keith in 2009.

Police records included in the file show Papini was accused by her sister of kicking in the back door of the Shasta Lake family home in October 2000.

A second call, made the same day by her parents Richard and Loretta Graeff, describes the incident as 'vandalism' and says Papini had gone off 'to somewhere in Redding'.

In September 2003, the pretty blonde was found riding in a 'suspicious vehicle' by police in Shasta Lake, accompanied by a friend named Brandin Weese.

Keith Papini, 33, said at the time that his wife had suffered a broken nose, had been beaten and appeared to have been branded by her kidnappers (seen leaving their Shasta Lake home)

Sherri sparked one of the largest manhunts in California history after she was reported missing on November 2, 2016. She has never spoken publicly on the incident

According to the record, the silver Jeep Papini was riding in narrowly missed another car at a junction on Sacramento Street.

A month later, Papini's parents called the cops for a second time regarding their daughter, this time claiming she had taken money from her father's bank account  although the log notes she later returned it.

In December 2003, Papini's mother made a third call to cops, telling officers her daughter, then 21, was harming herself and blaming it on her.

According to the log, Loretta also asked the police for advice because Papini was returning to live in the family home.

The final call included in the case file was made by Keith in November 2011, who reported a loose pitbull dog running around on his remote property and asked to have it removed.

Records show that the next contact with police at the home came when Keith reported his wife missing on November 2, 2016.

The official log of the incident shows the first panicked phone call came in at 5.51pm that day with cops arriving at the property at 6.30pm.

A summary of the call made to police by Keith notes: 'Arrived home from work and wife isn't there. Wife also didn't pick up their juvs [children] from school.

Papini was found 140 miles from home on the side of a freeway near the tiny town of Yolo at 4.39am

According to a 911 call made to Yolo police, the stay-at-home mom appeared 'heavily battered' when she was spotted by a passing driver

'RP [reporting party Keith] found her phone at the end of the driveway, hair in headphones.'

In fact, the phone was discovered a mile away at the intersection of Sunrise Drive and Old Oregon Highway  neatly placed on the ground and with the headphones tidily wrapped around it.

Speaking in December, after Papini had been found, Sheriff Tom Bosenko confirmed that the phone had been found 'neatly placed' on the ground, telling the Today Show: 'It appeared it had been set in some grass with the screen facing up, and then the earbuds to the phone were loosely coiled and appeared to be placed on the screen.

He added: 'It did somewhat appear to be that it was placed there purposely.'

Intriguingly, receipts obtained by DailyMail.com reveal that police also traveled to Detroit, Michigan, during the investigation  arriving in the city on November 9.

Detective Kyle Wallace, who is leading the investigation into the mother-of-two's kidnap ordeal, visited a number of suburbs, including Plymouth, Canton, Northville and New Hudson before returning to Redding, apparently empty-handed, on November 11.

Records show he was joined for the trip by another officer, Sergeant Brian Jackson.

Speaking about the trip, Jackson said: 'Detectives went to Michigan to conduct follow up about Ms. Papini's disappearance but we are not able to comment about specifics due to the investigation being open and ongoing.'

Despite the visit to Michigan, when Papini was found, on November 24, 2016, it was just 140 miles from home; on the side of a freeway near the tiny town of Yolo.

Papini was found three weeks later and was reunited with her husband and kids in their $128,000 home in Shasta Lake

Papini said she was taken at the intersection of Sunrise Drive and Old Oregon Highway while on a jog. She's described her captors as two Hispanic women who drove a dark SUV

According to a 911 call made to Yolo police, the stay-at-home mom appeared 'heavily battered' when she was spotted by a passing driver  her injuries later described by husband Keith as being the result of multiple beatings.

A record of the discovery made by the Yolo County Sheriff's Office notes that she was found at 4.39am but does not give a description of the suspects  instead recording it as 'N/A'.

The log continues: 'Missing person [Papini] from Shasta County was found in Yolo along Interstate 5. The missing person was found to be kidnapped.'

Speaking in a press conference after the young mother was found, Sheriff Bosenko said Papini described her kidnappers as being two Hispanic women who drove a dark SUV.

The pair remain at large, with Det. Sgt. Jackson telling DailyMail.com that his office is still working on identifying the women.

He said: 'We are still working on trying to identify the suspects in this case however at this time we do not have any identities to release.'

Despite the lack of updates, receipts obtained by DailyMail.com show police traveled to Williams, 103 miles south of Redding, on December 15, and to Woodland  close to where Papini was found  on December 17.

And cops told DailyMail.com that other women living in the area have nothing to fear, with Det. Sgt. Jackson saying they have no information that would give rise to safety concerns.

He explained: 'There is no information that would cause our office to feel that the general public to be concerned for their safety. We do recommend that the public be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious persons.'

DailyMailTV launches today. Go to www.dailymailtv.com to check your local listings

jYW5v+
Two mothers of students at a top Sydney private school are suing each other for defamation over comments posted to parent WeChat groups.

The pair became friends in mid-2011 as their children attended Knox Grammar, but by March 2016 they were in open warfare online.

The feud escalated to such heights that it will go before the NSW Supreme Court, amid claims from both sides the other ruined their reputation among the school mums.

Two mothers at a top Sydney private school are suing each other for defamation over comments posted to parent WeChat groups

Some of the messages posted on the WeChat group seen by dozens of other school mums

The first mother claimed her nemesis implied she taught her children to be violent, and once tried to avoid a random breath test and run over a police officer.

She also allegedly made her out to be a 'savage' and unethical person and an incompetent manager in posts seen by more than 1,000 WeChat members.

The second mother is counter-suing over a series of other messages to the Knox English as a Second Language and Knox Mothers WeChat groups, seen by dozens of members.

'In front of me you call me baby and darling, and behind my back you stab me madly with a knife,' she wrote, according to court papers seen by Daily Mail Australia.

'You really think that you are a high class lady by sending your children to a private school, and by buying a few fake handbags?'

The pair became friends in mid-2011 as their attended Knox, but by March 2016 they were in open warfare online

The first mother also claimed the only reason the other one's son got into Knox was because she noticed the vacancy and vouched for her with the school.

She called her a 'bitch' with a 'fake face' who was 'phony and pretentious', and labelled her a 'green tea prostitute'.

The second mother responded on another forum by saying the other was 'bitching like a vixen' and accused her of destroying a family back in China by having an affair with a married man.

'Such a person who was a mistress and destroyed the families of others is bad in essence,' she wrote.

She claimed that although the first mother boasted about getting her son into Knox, she already had reference letter from two other friends.

'This is the first time in my life I have met this type of shrew,' she wrote.

'I feel very sorry to have met someone s**tty like you. It feels like stepping on [dog poo emoji].'

Wei hit out at her for attacking others for buying fake products when she did too, and claimed she 'brutally attacked and abused' her in Year 4 groups.

The second mother is counter-suing over a series of other messages to the Knox English as a Second Language and Knox Mothers WeChat groups, seen by dozens of members

In her defence, the second mother argued her messages didn't defame the first mother as she claimed, and even if they did she could defend them as being largely true.

She wrote that she was referring to a 2012 playdate where the first mother encouraged the other's 12-year-old daughter to hit her own 7-year-old child.

Other messages were referring to a dinner party where the first mother's husband told the story about trying to dodge a breath test and running down the police officer.

She said it was only the policeman's quick reaction time that stopped him from sustaining more than a skin bruise, and that she bought him off to avoid charges.

The pair were ordered to mediation in May but after that failed a five-day trial date was earlier this month set for July next year.

Knox said it would not comment on a legal matter between two people and the WeChat groups were not official or endorsed by the school.

Daily Mail Australia does not suggest any of the allegations made by either of the mothers are true, with the claims still to be determined by the court.
A senior commander of NATO has warned that Russia could be making 'serious preparation for big war' as it conducts military exercises in eastern Europe.

General Petr Pavel, head of NATO's Military Committee, said a lack of transparency by the Kremlin over the Zapad 2017 war games could lead to 'unintended consequences of potential incidents during the exercise.'

He spoke out as President Putin oversaw live-fire drills including the launch of a nuclear-capable missile in the Leningrad Oblast region of Russia on Monday.

President Putin oversaw military exercises in Russia on Monday as the Zapad war games gathered pace amid warnings from NATO over their true purpose

Senior NATO officials have accused Putin of a lack of transparency over the exercises, which they say could be viewed as preparations for an actual attack

Russia has denied that the exercises are aimed to intimidate or aggravate NATO, saying the alliance is not viewed as an enemy

Russia also announced that it carried out a successful test of an Iskander-M ballistic missile (not pictured), which is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead

Russia announced via news network RT that it carried out a successful test of the advanced Iskander-M ballistic missile at the Kapustin Yar range, inside Russia.

The missile flew 480km before successfully striking its target, the site reported.

Elsewhere Pavel said his chief concern is over troop numbers. While Moscow claims only 13,000 soldiers are taking part in the drills, Pavel believes the true number to be as high as 100,000.

'All together, what we see is a serious preparation for big war,' he said.

'When we only look at the exercise that is presented by Russia there should be no worry. But when we look it in the big picture, we have to be worried, because Russia was not transparent.'

The Zapad war games, being conducted this year mostly in Belarus, run until September 20.

Despite assurances from Moscow that 'NATO is not considered as an enemy' and that 'the exercise is not aimed at NATO,' concerns remain among the top brass.

Two weeks ago Pavel met in person with the Russian military's General Staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov.

General Petr Pavel said a lack of transparency over troop numbers has led to concerns that Moscow could be planning an attack

NATO commanders are concerned that military games being hosted in Belarus by Russia could be disguising preparations for an actual conflict

While the Kremlin says just 13,000 soldiers will join the exercises, General Pavel believes the true number could be as high as 100,000

There are currently around 4,000 NATO troops stationed along the border with Russia, while Putin is believed to have 330,000 amassed on the other side

The Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, had a phone call with Gerasimov at the beginning of Zapad 17.

Pavel said it was 'mainly focused on transparency and risk reduction and avoidance of unintended consequences of potential incidents.'

'We have high concentration of troops in the Baltics. We have a high concentration of troops in the Black Sea and potential for an incident may be quite high because of a human mistake, because of a technology failure,' said Pavel said.

'We have to be sure that such an unintended incident will not escalate into conflict.'

Pavel spoke out at an annual conference of NATO military chiefs in the Albanian capital of Tirana where they discussed fighting terrorism, the situation in the Western Balkans and the new U.S. strategy on Afghanistan.

The games come amid high tensions along Russia's border with eastern Europe as the Kremlin and NATO build up their forces

Russia has denied the military exercises are aimed at intimidating the NATO alliance, saying it is not considered an enemy

Russian helicopters are seen taking part in military drills at the Luga training ground in Russia

Belarussian jets eject flares as they take part in the Zapad war games in eastern Europe

Speaking about the Balkans, Pavel said trouble in the region could come from radicalism, organized crime, migration, economic problems or the 'malign influence from Russia.'

'We do not compete with Russia for the Western Balkans. We are primarily focused on the Balkans being stable and secure,' he said.

He also added there was no plan for reducing troops in Kosovo or setting a time length for their presence.

Some 4,500 troops from 31 countries have been deployed in Kosovo since June 1999, after NATO's 78-day air campaign to stop a deadly Serbian crackdown against ethnic Albanian separatists.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, but Serbia has refused to recognise it.

The Zapad military games, which are being hosted in Belarus, are due to continue until September 20, according to the Kremlin

Tank turrets protrude from defensive positions after a fire drill as part of the Zapat war games

A Russian T-72 type tank on manouvers during the war games which are being held in Belarus
A North Carolina fair worker who was trying to rescue two terrified children from a broken Ferris wheel in North Carolina fell from the ride, in an incident that was captured on dramatic cellphone video.

Footage shot by a guest at the Central Carolina Fair at around 9.45pm on Friday showed the unnamed fair worker climbing up the Ferris wheel after one of the gondola cars began to tilt out of its normal position.

Two boys, five-year-old Hunter Roach and seven-year-old Carlos White, were inside the faulty car.

A worker at the Central Carolina Fair slipped and fell while trying to fix a malfunctioning Ferris wheel Friday, in an incident that was caught on video (pictured)

This screenshot from a cellphone video recorded by fair goer Brittney Smith shows the moment the work lost his balance while trying to help two boys stranded on the ride

The employee was trying to dislodge the gondola when he lost his grip and banged his body on the ride (left and right)

When the worker dislodged the car, he lost his balance and fell, banging his body on the ride.

The Central Carolina Fair in Greensboro said in a statement Saturday that the worker was taken to a hospital to be treated for a broken finger. He was later released, as the station WDRB reported.

Brittney Smith, 28, a fair goer from High Point, North Carolina, shot the heart-pounding video capturing the moment the fair worker lost his grip and fell to the ground.

She told ABC News the young occupants of the malfunctioning Ferris wheel carriage were holding onto each other, 'trying to protect one another from failing out.'

She described the children as looking 'pretty shaken' after they were pulled to safety from the ride.

Speaking to the station WFMY on Saturday, Brenda Kindle and Angela Roach said they and their sons, Carlos and Hunter, were still shaken from the Ferris wheel debacle, which left the two young friends stranded inside a gondola car that was leaning at an almost 90-degree angle.

All you can hear is your seven-year-old child screaming and saying someone help us please someone help us. They are crying at the top of their lungs, said Kindle. That was the most traumatic experience for me as a mother. I felt helpless that I couldn't do anything at all.

The impact made the stuck gondola car swing even harder, sending the boys inside flying backwards

The worker suffered a broken finger as a result of his dramatic fall

Boys speak out: Hunter Roach, 5 (left), and Carlos White, 7 (right), were safely removed from the Ferris wheel after the scary incident

Carlos White said the worker fell trying to help them, which caused their gondola to swing even harder and sent him and his friend flying backwards.

I thought we were gonna die, the boy said.

Both boys were eventually removed from the ride and taken to a hospital as a precaution. The seven-year-old was left with a bump on his head and the five-year-old sustained some minor bruises.

Carlos said going forward, he will be staying away from fair rides, unless its bumper cars.

According to fair organizers, the operator of the ride 'followed safety procedures to safely unload all passengers.'

The ride, operated by Michaels Amusement, was inspected by state officials and approved for future use. The fair wrapped up on Sunday.
A Pennsylvania coroner's office is embroiled in a series of sex scandal allegations after an employee was fired following claims she had sex with a police officer near a dead body.

Police in Monroe County were forced to investigate disputed claims a coroner and a police officer had sex at a death scene, prescription drugs were stolen from a dead body and illicit photos of a lovers genitals were shared around work.

Dismissed employee, Lauren Fizz, filed the first lawsuit, which claims her co-worker Traci Allen created a sexually hostile work environment - including telling staff about her marital problems and infidelities.

Monroe County coroner's office in Pennsylvania is embroiled in a series of sex scandal allegation after employees filed lawsuits against Chief Coroner Bob Allen (pictured) and his wife involving salacious claims

Mrs Allen, wife of County Coroner Bob Allen - who has stood as a Republic candidate for 25 years - is alleged to have claimed Mrs Fizz enjoyed a sexual encounter with a police officer at a death scene in April 2016.

County Coroner Mr Allen said the claims were made to undermine his forthcoming election campaign, while Mrs Fizz alleges his wife bragged about having an affair with a colleague 'in the woods.'

Mrs Fizz also says Mrs Allen showed off pictures of her lover's genitals to fellow staff.

A month after she submitted a formal letter of complaint to the Chief Coroner about his wife's lurid behaviour, Mrs Fizz was fired from her role citing the false accusations of sex near a dead body, sparking the lawsuit.

Also included in the lawsuit, which is seeking damages from Mr Allen, Mrs Allen and the county, are allegations that the Chief Coroner's wife started rumours she stole prescription drugs as well as other items from dead bodies while working.

'Mrs Fizz categorically denies that this happened,' her lawyer, David Deratzian, said last week.

Kathleen 'Traci' Allen (pictured), wife of County Coroner Bob Allen - who has stood as a Republic candidate for 25 years - is alleged to have concocted a story that co-worker Lauren Fizz enjoyed a sexual encounter with a police officer at a death scene in April 2016

'As for the police officer who is supposed to have been her partner, it is highly unlikely he would have been at the scene to allow this to happen,' he added.

Chief County Detective Eric Kerchner said that so far he has found no evidence that the death-scene sex had occurred.

'Right now, it's just an investigation into some allegations, that's all,' Detective Kerchner said.

Adding the goal is: 'To get an overall view of what's been happening in the past.'

A month after she submitted a formal letter of complaint to the Chief Coroner about his wife's lurid behaviour, Mrs Fizz was fired from her role citing the false accusations of sex near a dead body, sparking the lawsuit filed against Mr Allen, Mrs Allen and the county

A second lawsuit, filed by chief deputy coroner Michael Sak, said he turned down sexual overtures that Traci Allen made towards him in early 2016 and again this July.

He claims she became angry, which drew her husband's attention, leading Mr Sak to tell him about Traci Allen's alleged misconduct.

He says Traci Allen then kicked over a chair and tried to attack him.

Both Allens then accused Mr Sak of exposing himself to bodily fluids by not following safety procedures. He was given a formal warning.

Mr Sak wants his discipline overturned and to be protected under the state's whistleblower protection law.
Advertisement

St Louis has entered its third consecutive night of violence over Friday's acquittal of Jason Stockley, the white cop accused of murder in the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith.

As occurred on Saturday, thousands of protesters had engaged in a peaceful protest over Stockley's Friday acquittal, this time gathering outside the Police Department HQ before walking through the city.

And just as on Saturday, that was followed up by a splinter group that began causing mayhem, smashing windows in downtown St Louis, with windows being smashed and police attacked.

One man in a mask and body armor who was spotted waving an Anonymous flag was stopped by police and had a pistol, pepper spray and his protective gear confiscated.

Several St Louis County sheriff's deputies were sprayed with an unknown chemical and had to be decontaminated; others were pelted with rocks.

More than 80 people were arrested and five weapons confiscated, police said. The officers' injuries were minor to moderate, it was announced.

Scroll down for video

Chaos took over St Louis streets for the third night in a row on Sunday, as crowds continued to protests white ex-cop Jason Stockley's acquittal for the 2011 murder of Anthony Lamar Smith. Pictured: people running as demonstrators march

Police arrest a man in St Louis as demonstrators march in the city. In total 80 people were arrested on Sunday night - many of them for refusing to disperse at the orders of police

Police stopped this man and confiscated his shield, Anonymous flag and body armor - as well as a pistol, pepper spray, his mask and other items

These are the items confiscated from the individual, who has not yet been named. Police said he was also taken into custody after the incident

A man throws a chunk of concrete through a window in St Louis on Sunday. Several businesses and other buildings had their windows smashed in downtown St Louis, while planters and trash cans were knocked over and damaged

Cops arrive en masse to deal with protesters amid violence late at night in St Louis. Police later commended the daytime protesters for their responsible attitude - in stark contrast to the violence that came as night fell

At around 7pm Pastor Doug Hollis, an organizer of the peaceful daytime event, announced: 'We met our goal. We are dispersing. This was a great, peaceful protest. That's what we want.'

Tensions were raised after some declined to leave, and an unmarked police car reversed into a crowd at speed; nobody was hurt, but police said some protesters threw bottles afterward, the St Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

'The crowd started moving in a threatening manner toward the Impala and because of road closures, the car could not go forward,' police said in a statement. 'The officer driving the blue Impala backed down the street to safety.'

By 8pm troublemakers had departed that group and headed downtown.

Windows were broken at several businesses, including the Marriott hotel on Washington Avenue, a sushi restaurant and a nail salon, and the intersection of Olive and 10th Streets was particularly badly hit.

A bike officer was injured around this time and taken to hospital in an ambulance; the nature of his injuries was not immediately apparent.

Strings of arrests were made on multiple occasions as police commanded crowds to disperse, and arrested those who refused to leave.

The masked man's flag - with the Anonymous logo - can be seen in this image. The violent protesters were just a small fraction of the thousands that gathered in the daytime

Police arrive with riot shields to break up the violence downtown. The pattern was the same as the one seen on Saturday, when nine people were arrested, four of them juveniles

A cop chases after vandals in downtown St Louis on Sunday. Residents remain angry about the Stockley decision - but rioters may turn public opinion against protesters if they continue

Just as on Saturday, the violence that occurred after dark on Sunday came after the close of a peaceful early evening protest.

That peaceful protest began with thousands of protesters converging outside St Louis Police Department's headquarters and staging a 'die-in' which they laid across the ground, pretending to be dead.

Authorities had closed off several blocks around the police headquarters Sunday afternoon in anticipation of the demonstration, which included young children and teenagers, as well as adults.

The crowd also observed six minutes of silence in front of the police department building, then chanted 'stop killing us' as officers looked on from the headquarters' windows.

Afterward, they resumed the large-scale marching, chanting slogans such as 'this is what democracy looks like.'

Protesters said that the six-minute silence symbolized the six years between the Smith's death and Stockley's acquittal.

Early Sunday evening, protesters (pictured) gathered outside the St Louis Police Department headquarters, holding Black Lives Matter signs and American flags

Once outside the St Louis Police Department headquarters, many demonstrators participated in a 'die-in', lying on the ground to protest ex-cop Jason Stockley's Friday acquittal in the 2011 shooting of black man Anthony Lamar Smith

Sunday's protest (pictured) was the third consecutive day of action after the verdict was delivered. The judge said there was no evidence Stockley had unlawfully shot Smith or planted a gun on him, despite claims by the prosecution

These are three of the five adults arrested after demonstrations turned violent in St Louis on Saturday. They are (l-r) Lamont Davis, Lakeshia Starks and Tristan Muir. Four juveniles were also arrested; they have not been identified

The other two adults arrested were (l-r) Edward Stewart and Caryn Pierson. Charges for all five range from rioting to property damage. Protesters were furious over Stockley's acquittal after charges he murdered Smith and planted a gun on him

The five adults named by police as suspects in Saturday's riot were Caryn Pierson, Edward Stewart, Tristan Muir, Lakeshia Starks and Lamont Davis. Three of them live in St Louis; one in the surrounding county; and the fifth in Freeburg, Illinois.

Pierson was charged with first-degree property damage and rioting, and jailed on a $20,000 bond. Stewart was charged with unlawful assembly and resisting arrest and jailed on a $10,000 bond.

Muir was charged with rioting and fourth-degree assault; he was jailed on a $10,000 bond. Starks was charged with first-degree property damage, rioting, and resisting arrest and jailed on a $20,000 bond. And Davis was charged with first-degree property damage and jailed on a $20,000 bond.

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens issued a warning Sunday on Facebook that anyone caught destroying property would be held accountable and could face felony charges.

'Saturday night, some criminals decided to pick up rocks and break windows. They thought they'd get away with it. They were wrong. Our officers caught 'em, cuffed 'em, and threw 'em in jail,' the first-term Republican governor wrote.

Demonstrators chant outside police headquarters in St Louis. Many Black Lives Matter placards could be seen among the crowds as they peacefully protested

A protester is seen being arrested in St Louis following riots on Saturday night, which saw dozens of shopfronts smashed. The violence broke out after a peaceful protest concluded earlier Saturday

Police haul off a protester as they break up the violent crowd on Saturday. A protester had thrown red paint onto the riot shield seen here. Rocks and chunks of concrete were also thrown at cops, who responded with tear gas

Stockley (left) was aquitted on Friday in the 2011 death of Smith (right, with his daughter). Smith had been shot after a high-speed chase. Stockley had an AK-47 on his rear seat - something he defended on Saturday

Ed Sheeran's Sunday concert at the Scott Trade Center was canceled on Saturday by Messina Touring Group on the venue's website.

THE JUDGE WHO DECIDED THE CASE St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson The judge who acquitted Stockley is described as objective and well-respected by prosecutors and defense lawyers alike. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who must retire when he turns 70 in December, has ruled both for and against police during his 28 years on the bench. 'He's very methodical and a very objective judge,' Jack Garvey, a lawyer and former judge told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. 'He really will review everything before he makes a decision. I don't think he's ideological in any way.' People accused of crimes have the right to have their cases heard by a jury, but can opt to have the verdict rendered by a judge instead, as Stockley chose to do. Experts say a judge is more likely to understand the concept of reasonable doubt and not be swayed by emotions. Advertisement

'With the safety of the fans being of upmost concern, and after consulting with local officials, who could not fully commit to providing a sufficient amount of police and other city services support, we felt it was in everyones best interest to cancel Sunday night's show,' it read.

'While we regret to have had to come to this decision, we do look forward to returning to St Louis as soon as Eds schedule will allow in 2018.'

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, which had canceled its Saturday and Sunday performances of the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets scores, went ahead with its performance on Sundauy.

However, the orchestra is giving refunds on its website to those who were unable to attend due to the protests.

It also promised refunds to those who had tickets to the canceled Friday and Saturday events.

Rock band U2 also canceled a performance due to protests, saying their Saturday gig could not go ahead as 'local crowd security personnel would not be at full capacity,' and that they 'cannot in good conscience risk our fans' safety.'

Ticketholders will be able to claim a refund online or at their place of purchase, they added.

Saturday's confrontation took place in an area that includes the Blueberry Hill club, where rock legend Chuck Berry played for many years.

There had been a peaceful march in the area earlier in the evening that ended with organizers calling for people to leave and reconvene Sunday afternoon.

But a few dozen protesters refused to go. Police ordered them to disperse, saying the protest was illegal. Hundreds of officers in riot gear eventually moved in with armored vehicles.

The demonstrators retreated down a street, breaking windows with trash cans and throwing objects at police.

Several protesters were taken away in handcuffs, including a man who was carried off upside down. At least one demonstrator was treated after he was hit with pepper spray.

Sam Thomas, who was helping his friend clean up the glass from the shattered windows of his clothing and accessories boutique, OSO, said he understood why people were angry. The US justice system is broken and needs to be fixed, he said.

'I'm not saying this is the right way to fix it,' he said of the damage. 'The window isn't murdered. Nobody is going to have a funeral for the window. We can replace it.'

Demonstrations began peacefully on Friday after Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson acquitted former St Louis police officer Stockley, 36, of first-degree murder in the 2011 shooting death of Smith, 24.

Protesters later clashed with police, and 33 people were arrested and 10 officers injured by early Saturday morning. Police said protesters also damaged Mayor Lyda Krewson's home.

Police are seen here with two people - one of them unconscious after an asthma attack - during the riots. Protests continued on Sunday, but remained peaceful as of the early evening

Smith was shot in his car after Stockley and his partner chased him following an alleged drug deal, authorities said. Prosecutors argued that Stockley planted a weapon in Smith's car.

Stockley left the St Louis Metropolitan Police Department in 2013. Smith's family settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the city for $900,000 in 2013.

An informal group of St Louis-based activists known as the Ferguson frontline have organized the protests.

The group has focused on what it describes as institutional racism since rioting erupted in Ferguson, Missouri, a St Louis suburb, after a white police officer, Darren Wilson, shot black teenager Michael Brown in 2014.

A grand jury decided not to charge Wilson, and the US Justice Department declined to bring any charges of civil rights violations against him.

Brown's death triggered sometimes violent protests in Ferguson and around the United States, fueled by police killings of unarmed black men in other cities.

It also helped spark debate about racial bias in the US justice system.
A 21-year-old man died in a haunted house in Hong Kong after being hit by a moving coffin, the amusement park's officials say.

The man, surnamed Cheung, was hit by a coffin on Saturday at an attraction called Buried Alive at Hong Kong's Ocean Park.

Cheung was found unconscious five minutes after he entered the attraction, Ocean Park chief executive Matthias Li said Saturday, expressing 'deep sorrow' over the tragedy.

A 21-year-old man died after being hit by a coffin on Saturday at an attraction called Buried Alive at Hong Kongs Ocean Park (pictured above)

Cheung was found unconscious five minutes after he entered the attraction, Ocean Park chief executive Matthias Li said Saturday. Ocean Park (pictured) is Hong Kong's largest amusement park

'Buried Alive' is part of a Halloween-themed festival at Ocean Park - Hong Kong's largest amusement park - running from October 5 to 31.

The park's website said visitors would 'experience being buried alive alone, before fighting their way out of their dark and eerie grave'.

Visitors are supposed to get inside a coffin-turned-slide, local media said, and slip through into the haunted house where they would experience what the park's website described as 'a rocky maze filled with dreadful ghouls'.

Hong Kong's government said it believed Cheung entered the house safely but wandered off into a restricted area where he was struck by machinery.

'Buried Alive' is part of a Halloween-themed festival at Ocean Park (pictured) running from October 5 to 31

The victim was 'believed to have entered into an area for mechanical operations that was not open to visitors and was hit by a mechanical part', a statement said.

Police said an investigation was ongoing.

Cheung was friends with an employee of a Swire Group subsidiary and had visited Ocean Park as part of an annual staff event organised by the company, the South China Morning Post reported.

The government has ordered the closure of 'Buried Alive' until further notice.
A teenager claims she was terrorised by three people dressed as clowns as she walked from a bus stop in Perth on Saturday night.

Perth girl Rastana Baker, 16, was walking on Eighty Road in Baldivis, 46km south of Perth, about 7.15pm on Saturday when three men wearing clown masks jumped out of a car and followed her.

'They were running in and out of the bushes, running up to me,' Rastana told Perth Now.

Scroll down for video

'They were running in and out of the bushes, running up to me,' Rastana Baker (pictured) said

The 16-year-old said she was scratched on the neck when one of the clowns reached out to grab her.

Police believed the attack was possibly inspired by the film adaptation of Stephen King's novel 'It', which was released in Australia in early September.

The horror movie features a clown called Pennywise, who terrorises a small town and kidnaps children.

Rastana said the Saturday night attack terrified her.

'I didn't think I was going to live to see today,' she told Perth Now.

'I didn't think I was going to live to see today,' Rastana Baker (pictured) said

Police believed the attack was possibly inspired by the film adaptation of Stephen King's novel 'It', which was released in Australia in early September

Rastana was so frightened, she ran for two and a half kilometres to escape her tormentors.

'Because the road was so dark and so long, I felt like I was just running forever,' she said.

Police have stepped in as 'clown patrollers' after the Saturday night incident.

The 'clown purge', as it was known, began last year with ordinary people dressing up as fearsome masked figures, some even with weapons, in an attempt to terrorise the nation.

The horror movie features a clown called Pennywise (pictured), who terrorises a small town and kidnaps children

The group uploaded a picture of five fearsome police officers wearing monster masks who are ready to tackle the growing clown epidemic

Facebook page called Cop Humour Australia decided to tackle the clown epidemic using their own tricks - masks.

The group uploaded a picture of five fearsome police officers wearing monster masks.

'Dear Clowns. There may be some of you, but there are more of us! We are also bigger, better and more scarier than you,' the caption read.

'There will be hundreds of clown hunting police out on the streets, coming to find you in the following suburbs: Balga, Midland, Mandurah, Rockingham every other suburb you can think of... Stay out at your own risk.'

The Perth incidents follow a clown craze which started in the US last year, when hundreds of people dressed up as evil clowns - the craze spread to Australia

A Facebook page called Clown Purge Australia had recently warned Perth residents that the strange dressed up characters would be popping up in neighbourhoods 'very soon'

The post attracted 1,000 likes and numerous hilarious responses.

'Don't you already deal with clowns on a daily basis just not while they're in costume?' One funny commenter wrote.

'Good on you, if one of those clowns jumped out in front of me I would be close to having a heart attack - thank you for trying to keep the streets safe and the idiots at bay,' another mused.

A Facebook page called Clown Purge Australia recently warned Perth residents 'clowns' would be popping up in neighbourhoods 'very soon'.

According to moderators of the Facebook page, which has wracked up 30,000 likes, 'we do not mean any harm, all of it is just for a scare and some laughs'

'Those who are dressing up and carrying out silly acts should think seriously about what they are doing - the distress caused to people is unnecessary and may lead to further harm,' WA police said

According to moderators of the Facebook page, which wracked up 30,000 likes, 'we do not mean any harm, all of it is just for a scare and some laughs.'

But WA police said the stunts were not without risk.

'Those who are dressing up and carrying out silly acts should think seriously about what they are doing - the distress caused to people is unnecessary and may lead to further harm,' they said.

'By participating in this craze, people may be committing criminal offences and if so they will be charged by police.'

The Perth incidents follow a clown craze which started in the US last year, when hundreds of people dressed up as evil clowns.

In the wake of the US based 'clown sightings', the phenomenon spread to Europe, South America, New Zealand and Australia.
Police have used evidence provided by paedophile hunters in almost half of child sexual grooming cases which they put forward for prosecution, it has been revealed.

Despite publicly condemning the self-styled amateur sleuths, who pose online as children to entrap perverts, detectives have become increasingly reliant on them to catch criminals.

New figures obtained by the BBC Inside Out programme under the Freedom of Information Act reveal a dramatic rise in the number of cases where files have been sent to the Crown Prosecution Service for 'meeting a child following sexual grooming' using evidence supplied by paedophile hunters.

Despite publicly condemning the self-styled amateur sleuths, who pose online as children to entrap perverts, detectives have become increasingly reliant on them to catch criminals

In 2014 the proportion was 11 per cent and the total figure was 20 cases. Just two years later in 2016 the proportion was 44 per cent and a total of 114 cases.

Police chiefs are now considering formal co-operation with the 'hunters' who refuse to obey warnings to stop their activities.

Simon Bailey, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for child protection, said he would 'consider' working with such groups in future.

He admitted police were 'not winning the moral argument' in trying to stop paedophile hunters taking matters into their own hands.

Mr Bailey, the chief constable of Norfolk, told Inside Out: 'I'm not going to condone these groups and I would encourage them all to stop, but I recognise that I am not winning that conversation and I am not winning that moral argument.'

Asked if police could work with paedophile hunters, he replied: 'I think that's something we are going to potentially have to look at, yes.'

But he said there were risks and complex problems that would have to be addressed to do so.

Inside Out followed a Southampton-based 'hunter' Stephen Dure, who spends his spare time posing as an under-age child to snare paedophiles.

His evidence has been used three times in court.

The BBC programme showed him meeting a paedophile Robert Babey from Eastleigh, Hants, who has previously been jailed 'more than once' for sex offences.

New figures obtained by the BBC Inside Out programme under the Freedom of Information Act reveal a dramatic rise in the number of cases where files have been sent to the Crown Prosecution Service for 'meeting a child following sexual grooming' using evidence supplied by paedophile hunters

Mr Dure warned Babey, who believed he was meeting a boy of 14 after an online chat, that police were on their way and he would use 'reasonable' and legal force to hold him until officers arrived.

The man was arrested and has since pleaded guilty to multiple breaches of a sexual harm prevention order and is awaiting sentence.

Explaining his motivation, Mr Dure, who works on a building site, said: 'I wanted to leave my mark and literally do something good for society.

'I'm never going to be able to give this up, this is me for life.'

He has 170,000 followers on Facebook who follow his paedophile hunting activities.

Mr Dure is just one of many amateur detectives around the UK who hand over video and online messaging evidence to police to help get paedophiles jailed.

They film their meetings with people who groom them and then post their videos on social media. The police have said that 'hunters' hamper current investigations and risk prosecutions by posting videos online before convictions.

Mr Bailey said: 'Vigilante groups are putting the lives of children at risk. They might not see it that way but they are potentially compromising our operations, they are not undertaking the comprehensive risk assessments that we do.'

But he admitted: 'My message hasn't been taken on board by these vigilante groups.'

In July Gwent police and crime commissioner, Jeff Cuthbert, urged more co-operation between police and hunters.

He said: 'Of course there are training implications, it would have to be done in a planned way - the right way - but I think in terms of the principle, it's the right way forward.'
The foster parents for the 18-year-old now considered the prime suspect in the Parsons Green bucket bombing knew little about him before taking him in, friends said today.

Penny and Ronald Jones reportedly learned more from police about the teenager in the past three days than they learned from Surrey County Council, who placed him in Sunbury-on-Thames.

Neighbours have described how the boy was 'trouble' and the Jones' had been contacting officials saying they were unable to cope before his arrest.

A family friend told The Times: 'They were aware he had been in an ISIS-controlled area but there was a lack of information about what appears now to have been a very troubled past.

'Penny and Ron are very good people. They've been doing what decent English people have been doing for decades and that is offering a helping hand. They're not to blame for this situation'.

Penny and Ronald Jones (pictured on a luxury cruise holiday) unwittingly gave their love and support to two teenagers embroiled in the investigation into the Parsons Green bombing

Police officers have sealed off part of Cavendish Road in Sunbury-on-Thames as they search a property in connection with the Parsons Green bombing

Experts have said that in many cases foster receiving refugees are only told a first name, their age and where they came from.

One former social services official, who was a foster carer and then ran a fostering service for a council, told MailOnline: 'The information that we get is just first name, age and where they come from, often after being age assessed it turns out that they are older, or they cannot assess a correct age.

'Of course the young person says they are fleeing their country as they are in danger, and many are, but it has always concerned me that we do not know if they may be a possible threat.

'Foster carers are being placed in a very difficult position as are us staff who place the young people in carers homes'.

It is also thought the couple had in the past looked after Yahya Faroukh, 21, whose home near Heathrow airport was searched by police yesterday. As police searched the couple's suburban home at the weekend, a friend told the Daily Mail: 'To say they are gutted is an understatement.

'For this to happen, after all the kids they have fostered, and for it to ruin everything... questions have to be asked about what checks were made and who decided to place him with them.'

Even though Mr Jones is on the cusp of his tenth decade and uses a mobility scooter, the couple were coaxed out of retirement a few years ago by a deep-seated desire to help children fleeing war zones.

Mrs Jones said in a recent interview: 'We try and support where we can  because they've had bad lives. They just need to be loved.'

When the couple were awarded their MBEs at Buckingham Palace in 2009, Mrs Jones said: 'We open our hearts to all the children. Anybody that comes to us, we will do whatever we can to help them with whatever they need.'

A man was caught on camera leaving a house at the centre of a police investigation into the Parsons Green bombing on the morning of the attack

A photograph of the flaming white bucket taken just after it exploded around 8.20am on Friday shows a number of wires protruding out of the top of Lidl bag

But their latest charge, a teenager born in Baghdad who came to Britain as a refugee a couple of years ago via an immigration centre in Dover, was proving a handful, it was said.

Stephen Griffiths, 28, who lives across the road, said: 'Police have been at this address a few times in the last couple of weeks.'

Aaron Nye, a former foster child of the couple, said they had told him they had hosted some 'difficult teenagers' recently, adding: 'I really feel for Penny and Ron. It's dreadful for them and it has made me quite emotional  they never asked for any of this and they have been so good to so many kids.'

Family friend Jim Adaway, 37, said the couple willingly took on refugee children after retirement, but admitted they had struggled with one of the youngsters.

It is also thought the couple had in the past looked after Yahya Faroukh, 21, (pictured) whose home near Heathrow airport was searched by police yesterday

He said: 'I think Penny was getting in touch with [the authorities] saying, 'I cannot handle this one'. I don't know if it was the right decision to do this.'

The couple, who have six grown-up children of their own, had given up fostering and were enjoying their retirement but in recent years were moved by the plight of children arriving from war zones. They have opened the door of their modest home to youngsters from countries including Iraq, Eritrea, Syria, Albania and Afghanistan.

Mrs Jones said: 'You have to have patience and remember they've been through a lot  they're doing their best but nothing is going to happen overnight.

'But it's so rewarding. They're grateful to be safe, to have a bed to sleep in and to have food and [our support] that's all they need.'

One refugee was a 15-year-old boy who had smuggled himself into the country from Calais in the back of a lorry. Fostering refugees has involved accompanying them to Home Office appointments and helping them find a solicitor.

Mrs Jones said: 'Sometimes, watching the news, they can get so worked up that they have to leave the house and go for a walk  it's awful to see and it's so difficult for them. We just try and support where we can.'

She added: 'They're all children  they just need to be loved.'

Nicky Rider, 43, a neighbour of the Joneses, said: 'They are a lovely couple. I have known them all my life. They must be devastated.'

Another neighbour said: 'I feel for them both. They don't deserve this at this time of their life.'
Pictured is the mugshot of Steven Pirus, 59

A Wisconsin man suspected of killing his wife and blowing up their home to try to cover up the crime has been arrested.

Steven Pirus, 59, of Madison was arrested on Saturday night.

He is being held on suspicion of first-degree intentional homicide, arson and recklessly endangering safety.

Pirus is accused of fatally shooting 50-year-old Lee Anne Pirus.

Investigators believe she could have been killed months ago. Police Chief Mike Koval said that he had shot his wife and wanted to cover up the crime.

Koval told the Wisconsin State Journal: 'Steven intentionally blew up this house. He's as much as admitted it over the course of several days of conversations.'

Koval added that Pirus 'has vacillated between his motives'.

Police spokesman Joel DeSpain expects Pirus to be charged Monday.

Pirus has been arrested on suspicion of first-degree intentional homicide, arson and recklessly endangering safety

He is accused of killing his wife, 50-year-old Lee Anne Pirus, and burning down their house to mask that he had done so. A preliminary autopsy determined that Lee Anne Pirus died of 'homicidal firearm trauma'

The house at 7806 Stratton Way exploded and caught fire at some point on Wednesday afternoon, NBC15 reports.

Her body was found Friday morning in the wreckage of the house.

The Dane County medical examiner's office says she died from 'homicidal firearm trauma' as opposed to injuries from the fire.

Authorities allege Steven Pirus manipulated his home's natural gas system to cause the explosion.

Firefighters work to put out a fire and search through debris from the site of the explosion

The couple had been married for at least 20 years. The blast endangered neighbors

Police say the blast also endangered his neighbors.

Steven and Lee Anne Prius had been married for at least 20 years and did not have children.
Iain Duncan Smith said that the Britain must invest in industry and technology to increase innovation and boost the economy

This week we were all reminded of a government success  that employment in Britain is at a record high, with 3million jobs created since 2010 and most of them full-time.

This achievement has been the result of policies enacted over the past seven years, and I dont think its importance can be overstated. In 2010, one in five households had no one in work.

Our welfare reforms were the catalyst that enabled us to get millions off welfare dependency and into work.

And they will continue to do so, for work is the surest route out of poverty. Not only does it give an individual dignity and purpose  we also know that long-term unemployment is linked with almost every social malady there is.

But employment alone is not enough. Having a good job, well paid, and with a chance of progressing up to better jobs is also important.

That is why, today, the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has published an in-depth report on the factors behind the UKs sluggish productivity rate. This highlights some deeply worrying trends  namely low levels of business investment and a growing regional divide between London and the rest of the UK.

At a time when government is borrowing 100,000 a minute and budgets are squeezed, it is only by increasing productivity that pay rises can be afforded, for it is low productivity that is the cause of British industrys addiction to cheap labour.

The truth is that, while the employment figures may be spectacular, our productivity figures make for less happy reading.

Over the last decade and beyond, they have stagnated. We appear to have fallen behind almost all of our main competitors and it is a puzzle that continues to vex economists and the Treasury.

Bucking the trend: Investment and innovation paid off at Nissan's Sunderland factory

Today the CSJ publishes a significant contribution to this debate and offers a solution. Whilst there is no simple answer to such a complex problem, our report looks at answers right across the financial and social landscape.

There is a consensus that the UKs productivity problem is a result of the 2007-2009 financial crisis which triggered a recession, a period of low investment, easy monetary policy and relative strength in the labour market.

This report argues, however, that these short-term factors only exacerbated economic pressures that already existed  and that, in fact, there have been longer-term causes of productivity stagnation.

Figures in the report show that the trends have been present since before the crash in 2008.

There are several key factors to address if we are to change this. Firstly  barring some exceptions such as in the car plants in the North East  investment and innovation in this country is on a steady downward trajectory and falling far behind our competitors.

There is obviously a role for government to play in reversing this trend but industry itself must also take a good look in the mirror. It has talked for too long about investment but now is a time to act. Businesses must take some responsibility.

The CSJ report shows the UK lagging far behind competitors in Sweden, the Netherlands and Germany in terms of how much we invest in employees, and this has been the case for over a decade.

Almost 30 years ago, after re-unification, Germany faced similar problems to those we have now. It took an immense effort for German businesses to get together and put a huge investment into industry and technology. But they are now reaping the benefits. We must do likewise here.

The advent of Brexit and the increase in the minimum wage only make this imperative more urgent.

We need to see increases in capital investment right across the British economy: an increase in business and government spending in research and development; simplification of the tax system to encourage capital investment; greater support for entrepreneurs; and support for business to increase the take-up of new generation technologies.

Secondly we must invest in our human capital. There has been no wage growth as well as low levels of occupational progression  workers moving up the jobs ladder  among those in the bottom 20 per cent earners for over two decades, suggesting there has been little productivity growth for the most disadvantaged in society since well before the financial crisis.

This report establishes that the education system has over the years failed generations of disadvantaged students, most of whom have not reached the basic level of attainment at GCSE level.

Recent reforms will help but the report finds there are too few alternative routes through education and into employment for school leavers today. The low levels of professional development training and in-work progression also need urgent attention.

Lastly, the gap in productivity performance between London and the rest of the UK is stark and growing. Astonishingly, productivity rates in some boroughs of London are more than ten times those of some of the poorest areas in the UK.

The standard measure of productivity  GVA or Gross Value Added  is below the national average in every single area of the UK outside London and the South-East.

Understanding productivity growth requires an understanding of the regional dynamics that have shaped the British economy and addressing them through changes to both the physical and social infrastructure.

We must pair up local growth plans with a radical anti-poverty agenda, to ensure that growth in productivity benefits the poorest in society. And we must develop means of attracting big employers to conurbations outside London and the South East.

Sir James Dyson, the British vacuum cleaner tycoon, recently made the point that, despite the many warnings about the risks of Brexit, well-run businesses will actually see these supposed risks as opportunities.

What this report makes clear is that for the UK to take advantage of such opportunities, we will need to become more competitive.

The worryingly low level of productivity, particularly in many of the regions highlighted in this report, makes it imperative that we tackle this with real urgency.

At the heart of this lies the need for a long-lasting solution to the problem of the UKs addiction to cheap labour.

If we want to improve the income of the bottom 20 per cent of workers, we can only do so by boosting business productivity which will require substantial investment, not least in training.

For too long, this has been spoken of as a challenge for government, yet perhaps the most powerful point emerging from this report is that British business needs to recognise that it has an enormous part to play.

Other countries have managed to boost productivity and so can we  but only if there is honesty about the nature of the challenge.
The Grenfell fire disaster has left dozens of firefighters traumatised by the experience of tackling the tower block blaze, it has been revealed.

A total of 200 London Fire Brigade staff have received counselling following the tragedy three months ago and 80 are still seeing counsellors.

Across the UK, mental health has become an increasing burden on fire and rescue services.

Staff taking long-term sick leave due to mental illness has risen by nearly one third over the last six years, new figures have shown.

Two thirds of fire services released data following a Freedom of Information request by a BBC Radio 5 Live investigation.

A total of 200 London Fire Brigade staff have received counselling following the Grenfell Tower tragedy three months ago and 80 are still seeing counsellors

It revealed the number of firefighters and other staff taking long-term mental health leave rose from 600 to 780 over the last six years. At least 126 staff have left the service due to mental health issues since 2011.

In London the figure has doubled over the same period and 103 staff have taken mental health leave this year.

Sean Starbuck, mental health lead for the Fire Brigades Union, told the BBC: The stigma attached to mental health needs to be consigned to the bins of history where it belongs. Its not going to get there on its own.

Fire services need to create an environment where firefighters feel able to disclose if they are suffering as a result of traumatic scenes they witness as part of the job. At the moment it appears many are unable to.

Faye McGuinness, programme manager for mental health charity Minds Blue Light programme, said: Our survey of over 1,600 staff and volunteers across emergency services shows nearly nine in 10 have experienced stress, low mood or poor mental health while working in their current role.

A shocking one in four told us that they had contemplated taking their own lives.

Ann Millington of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said the increase could reflect a change in behaviour with more firefighters prepared to seek assistance.

Staff taking long-term sick leave due to mental illness has risen by nearly one third over the last six years. In London, 103 staff have taken leave due to mental illness this year

She said: The days following the Grenfell fire saw a lot of open discussion about support being made available to firefighters and firefighters openly discussing it. The fact that people were talking about it openly and willing to accept help is an encouraging sign for the wider fire sector.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: Firefighters can and do see some traumatising things and it is important to give them the support they need and for them to know that there are always people available to listen to them.

About 200 firefighters and 40 engines fought the blaze which spread rapidly through the 24-storey residential tower block in Kensington in June. At least 80 people died in the fire.
The European Union has been accused of paying African migrant smugglers thousands  to encourage them to quit the illegal trade and set up their own businesses instead.

According to an investigation by the BBCs Panorama programme, traffickers are getting up to 6,000 a time to move into new employment, such as training to become a mechanic, or help to set up a farm or shop.

An EU spokesman has denied that any cash was given to individuals, but an unnamed EU official told the programme off-camera that ex-smugglers were being given money via third parties and that the vetting system to decide who received help was flawed.

The European Union has been accused of paying African migrant smugglers to quit the illegal trade and set up their own businesses instead (picture taken from Panorama programme)

According to an investigation by the BBCs Panorama programme, traffickers are getting up to 6,000 a time to move into new employment (picture taken from Panorama)

In one project, in Niger, the EU said it had invested 687,000 euros or 604,000 in a pilot project designed to help former traffickers in the past 12 months alone.

The West African state is seen as the gateway to Libya and on to the Mediterranean for refugees seeking a better life in Europe.

In August, around 4,000 migrants made the dangerous crossing by boat from Libya to Italy  but that number represented a huge fall on the previous year, when 21,000 travelled across the Med in August 2016.

The reduction is largely due to the crackdown by the Niger government and the EU, which has handed more than 300million to the country to help it combat those indirectly involved in trafficking.

Panorama found that, until a few months ago, convoys of pick-up trucks packed with migrants from all over sub-Saharan Africa would leave the city of Agadez, in Niger, to travel just over 500 miles across the desert to the Libyan border.

But following the crackdown, huge numbers of trucks have been confiscated. For each one impounded, there is a driver left without a vehicle and a livelihood.

In one project, in Niger, the EU said it had invested 687,000 euros or 604,000 in a pilot project designed to help former traffickers in the past year alone (picture from Panorama)

An EU spokesman has denied that any cash was given to individuals, but an unnamed EU official said ex-smugglers were being given money via third parties (picture from Panorama)

Reporters from the BBC One programme were given access to a meeting that was overseen by Nigerian and EU officials where those claiming to be former people smugglers or to have been involved in the illegal migrant trade were lined up and selected for EU funding to launch businesses of their own choice.

It was claimed they can receive up to 6,000 euros each. One official told reporters that the system was flawed because there was very little paperwork and instead friends or colleagues vouched for the former smugglers identities and intentions.

A spokesman for the EU said no money was given directly or indirectly via third parties to former people smugglers.

An EU spokesman admitted that 687,000 euros had been invested in reconversion activities in Niger (picture from Panorama)

However, she did admit that 687,000 euros had been invested in reconversion activities in Niger and that around 6,500 people previously involved in irregular migrant activities had been identified by 15 municipalities of the region of Agadez.

She said: People previously involved in smuggling submit reconversion projects that are then assessed.

If they are deemed realistic they can get assistance that meets their needs in kind equipment, tools, livestock.

There is no cash transfer to beneficiaries. Other projects offer vocational training.

Panorama: Africas Billion Pound Migrant Trail will be broadcast tonight at 8.30pm on BBC One.
A car is stuck on the tracks of a major Sydney train line causing peak-hour commuter chaos.

The damaged Hyundai hatchback is stranded on the Western Line causing trains in both directs to be halted just after 8am.

It appears to have crashed through the fencing to the tracks with significant damage to the bonnet and windscreen.

The vehicle, located near Toongabbie, has caused lengthy delays for people commuting to work along the Western and North Shore systems.

Sydney Trains are recommending people allow for extra time when travelling to and from the city and traffic on nearby roads could be effected.

More to come.
Mr Asanuma allegedly told police officers he had 'quadruple shots' of whiskey

He was also given 18 months probation for his drink driving on July 29

A Queensland man was disqualified from driving for 22 months on Friday

A 34-year-old man from Queensland has been disqualified from driving for 22 months for drink driving, after blowing nearly six times the legal limit.

Troy Segetaro Asanuma, from Ormeau on the Gold Coast, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol in Southport Magistrates Court on Friday.

He was also sentenced to 18 months of probation after blowing a blood-alcohol reading of .306.

A 34-year-old man from Queensland has been disqualified from driving for 22 months for drink driving (stock image)

The man told arresting officers he had been drinking 'quadruple shots' of Jack Daniels whiskey (stock image)

The legal blood-alcohol limit in Australia is 0.05.

Mr Asanuma was spotted swerving all over the road in the nearby suburb of Logan by another driver at 10.35am on July 29.

His damaged Toyota Landcruiser eventually came to a stop after smashing into a Mercedes van twice, before colliding with a tree.

Police arrived to find the man 'grossly intoxicated' but able to have a conversation, according to the Gold Coast Bulletin.

Mr Asanuma pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol in Southport Magistrates Court on Friday

Mr Asanuma confessed to driving the car and revealed he had been drinking the previous day as well, before his attempt to drive back to the Gold Coast.

Surprisingly, the man told arresting officers he had been drinking Jack Daniels whiskey before 'moving onto double shots, triple shots and quadruple shots'.

Mr Asunuma's lawyer, Mr Rijald Hadzalic, said his client was very remorseful.

'My client is fortunate no one was injured,' he told the Bulletin.

'He's taken a lot from the Queensland Traffic Offenders Program and is glad to put the incident behind him.'
A huge influx of child refugees arriving in Britain has left councils struggling to find homes for thousands of troubled teenagers.

More than 4,200 child asylum seekers were in council care last year  a 54 per cent increase on the previous year  and local authorities have warned that they cannot find enough foster care places.

The increase in numbers has left many councils facing massive budget shortfalls, with one local authority, Kent County Council, reporting that it spent 34million on care for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) in the last financial year.

Officials warned that such children were likely to suffer psychological problems because of horrors witnessed in their home country, or on their journey to Britain.

Councils in the UK have been struggling to find homes for thousands of teenagers because of a huge influx of child refugees (stock photograph of refugees in Calais, France)

Kent, which has taken 1,754 UASC into its care in the past five years, reported that 41 per cent of health assessments found evidence of psychological symptoms including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and flashbacks. Experts have questioned if enough support is available for refugee children, and for the foster carers who take them into their homes.

The growing number of arrivals also raises questions about whether councils have sufficient resources to vet for any signs of radicalisation. A counter-terrorism think-tank warned earlier this year that militant groups such as Islamic State were deliberately targeting young refugees in camps in Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan.

The Quilliam Foundation said extremists worked with people traffickers and funded travel to Europe for migrants, in the hope of 'buying' their allegiance.

The vast majority of asylum applications from UASC come from 16 and 17-year-old males, leaving councils struggling to find foster places for troubled young men.

Officials warned that such children were likely to suffer psychological problems because of horrors witnessed in their home country, or on their journey to Britain (stock photo of Calais)

In Kent, the council has opened reception centres solely for boys aged 16 or 17, where they can stay for up to eight weeks, because it said its normal care placements were at 'full capacity'.

Department for Education figures revealed there were 4,210 UASC in council care last year, compared with 2,740 in 2015 and 1,950 in 2013. Meanwhile, the Home Office said the number of lone children claiming asylum has risen every year for the past seven years, from 1,515 in 2010 to 3,290 in 2016.

The Local Government Association has warned that the central government funding councils receive does not cover the full costs of caring for child refugees.
More than eight million households are caught in a 1.2billion a year energy bill rip-off, figures show.

The biggest energy suppliers have launched a raft of cheap deals in recent weeks to entice new customers, but have failed to cut bills for existing ones.

It means loyal customers are now paying as much as 270 a year more for power than new customers with the same company.

Research compiled for Money Mail reveals the extent to which these customers are being ripped off by staying loyal to their supplier of gas and electricity.

More than eight million customers have a standard variable tariff with the six biggest firms: British Gas, EDF Energy, Eon, Npower, Scottish Power and SSE. This is the default tariff customers end up on when their fixed deal ends, and is typically the most expensive.

The biggest energy suppliers have launched a raft of cheap deals in recent weeks to entice new customers, but have failed to cut bills for existing ones

Experts say this is because suppliers know that millions of households do not regularly switch deals and so can get away with charging these customers more.

They can then use the money to launch cheap deals that will attract new customers.

Switching organisation The Big Deal calculates that the eight million customers on standard variable tariffs with the big six suppliers are paying a total of 1.2billion a year more than they would if they were on deals for new customers.

On September 6, EDF Energy launched a cheap dual-fuel deal costing the average household 890 a year. By comparison, loyal customers on its standard tariff paying by monthly direct debit pay 1,160 a year  some 270 more. There are currently 795,247 households on EDF Energys default tariff, which means that together they are overpaying by around 215million a year.

Scottish Power launched a one-year fixed deal on September 1 costing 990. This is 177 less than its standard tariff costs, at 1,167 a year. It means the 640,698 customers on this tariff are overpaying by a more than 113million a year, according to figures from The Big Deal.

Experts say this is because suppliers know that millions of households do not regularly switch deals and so can get away with charging these customers more

Scottish Power said customers can switch to another of its deals at any time without incurring a penalty.

Npowers cheapest deal costs 948 a year, while customers on its standard tariff pay 239 more a year, at 1,187. In total these 795,726 customers are overpaying by more than 190million.

SSE has just withdrawn its cheapest deal, costing 891 a year. But as customers signed up it continued to charge the 1.5million households on its standard deal 1,129 a year  some 238 more each and together more than 350million.

The difference between British Gass cheapest deal and its standard tariff is smaller at 18. But with 3.1million customers on its default tariff it is still making more than 54million a year extra from them.

Will Hodson, of The Big Deal, said: The difference between these deals is shocking. If the Big Six can offer deals 270 cheaper than their standard tariffs, they can surely afford to cut bills for millions of people.

Suppliers should be prevented from offering deals with such a large difference in prices. Otherwise, the Big Six will continue to exploit their most trusting customers in order to attract a few new ones.

Customers on standard variable tariffs are also vulnerable to price increases. On Friday, British Gas raised its prices for customers on its standard dual fuel tariffs by an average of 76 per person per year.

The rest of the Big Six suppliers raised prices for customers on standard tariffs earlier this year.

In its general election manifesto, the Conservative Party pledged to protect around 17million families on standard variable tariffs, but plans have since been watered down, with only two million vulnerable households set to benefit.

A spokesman for Energy UK, the trade body for power companies, said: How energy suppliers price their products is a matter for individual companies, and its in their interest to keep prices competitive to attract and retain customers.

The number of customers on standard variable tariffs continues to fall as the energy industry seeks to encourage switching. With over 50 active suppliers in the energy market there has never been more choice for consumers.

A spokesman for energy watchdog Ofgem said: Were determined to put an end to the two tier market which benefits those who shop around, but leaves many loyal customers overpaying.

QUICK MONEY SAVER: HOW TO SLASH YOUR ENERGY BILLS Don't let your energy provider get away with charging you over the odds, just because they can. Energy firms are constantly battling to pinch customers from each other and you could cut your energy bills dramatically as a new customer. Reviewing deals every year ensures you are on the cheapest deal. Even moving every other year will save you significant amounts. If you are one of the millions of people who have NEVER switched (i.e. stuck with your original supplier), then you should save a big chunk of cash. This could be as much as 616, according to energyhelpline. You only need to be interested in the tariff that is going to be cheapest where you live so do your own postcode comparison in minutes using the tool above - or here - to find the best price. You can read more about other quick tricks to make sure you are getting the best deal on your household bills in The MailOnline's award-winning money section, This is Money here. Advertisement

Smart meters project 'is way behind target'

Installing smart meters into millions of homes is massively behind schedule, researchers say.

It had been hoped to have them in 53million homes and businesses by 2020. But meeting that target would now require that 40,000 are put in every day.

The technology has generated confusion and resistance in many households, according to Benjamin Sovacool, professor of energy policy at Sussex University.

This is the largest government information technology project in history, he added.

It means installing 104million pieces of new equipment when counting separate electricity and gas meters, display monitors and wireless networks. There is little awareness of the benefits or of how the technology works.

The professor also told the Sunday Times the costs were high at 200-300 a home and the energy savings were tiny. It is estimated that the programme will cost some 11billion overall  a price added to household bills.

The meters transmit details of a familys energy use to suppliers, using a system similar to mobile phones and removing the need for estimated bills.

The idea is to encourage householders to use less energy.

A Government spokesman told the newspaper: Smart meters will end estimated billing, provide real-time information about energy use and help cut bills.

There are 7.7million meters installed and 80 per cent of people recommend them.

They are a vital upgrade to our energy system and will cut bills by 300million in 2020.
A middle-aged woman has been caught on camera launching a racist tirade of abuse on a bouncer after she was removed from a Sydney nightclub for being too drunk.

In the video, uploaded by Newsflare user Danny Ridley, the woman can be heard slamming the male bouncer with a number of derogatory insults.

'You piece of f***ing sh**... You f***ing Muslim,' the woman yells at him, while standing only inches away from him.

The middle-aged woman has been filmed launching a racist tirade on a bouncer before hitting him

She can be heard yelling a number of harsh insults at the man who was working

The woman continues a barrage of abuse before getting physical with the younger man and slapping him across the face.

She accuses him of stopping her from travelling home in a taxi but he tries to calmly explain to her she abused him and she must stay until the police arrive.

In the footage she slaps him a number of times, while screaming obscenities in his face.

The woman swears at him repetitively and uses phrases which include 'f***ing c***,' 'a lying f***ing Lebanese dog', 'smarta** c***' and a 'f***ing liar'.

She says to him 'Don't think you're so smart c***' and over eight minutes and 35 seconds of footage is unrelentless in her tirade.

In the footage she slaps him a number of times, while screaming obscenities in his face

She says to him 'Don't think you're so smart c***' and over eight minutes and 35 seconds of footage is unrelentless in her tirade

She physically assaulted and racially abused the security guard as he does his job

The woman staggers as she swears at the man and slurs her words as she hurls insults.

Mr Ridley captioned the video, which is uploaded three times to his account, 'A woman in her 50s is kicked out of a bar for being too drunk, then physically assaults and racially abuses the security guard for doing his job.'

He geo-tagged the footage as Kent Street, in the Sydney CBD.
Boris Johnson (pictured) was locked in a furious row with the head of Britains statistics watchdog last night over the size of the UKs annual contribution to the EU

Boris Johnson was locked in a furious row with the head of Britains statistics watchdog last night over the size of the UKs annual contribution to the EU.

In a highly unusual intervention, Sir David Norgrove publicly rebuked him for reviving his referendum pledge to take back control of roughly 350million a week.

After an angry exchange of letters, the Foreign Secretary accused Sir David of a wilful distortion of his words.

The row erupted after Sir David, chairman of the UK Statistics Authority, wrote to Mr Johnson saying: I am surprised and disappointed you have chosen to repeat the figure of 350million a week in connection with the amount that might be available for extra public spending when we leave the EU.

In a blunt assessment, Sir David accused Mr Johnson of a clear misuse of official statistics.

Aides to Mr Johnson later insisted it had been a misunderstanding, and that Sir Davids main concern focused on a headline in The Daily Telegraph stating: Boris: We will take back 350m from EU for NHS.

A spokesman said the two men had spoken yesterday, when Sir David made clear that he was complaining about the headlines and not Boriss piece. In fact, he admitted that Boriss wording in the piece was absolutely fine.

But Sir David hit back later, with a spokesman for the UK Statistics Authority saying: Sir David Norgrove does not believe the issues lie solely with the headlines. He has not changed the conclusion set out in his letter to the Foreign Secretary.

This prompted an angry letter from Mr Johnson accusing the public official of deliberately twisting his words. He said Sir David had privately conceded he was not responsible for the headlines and coverage that followed his article.

He added: I must say that I was surprised and disappointed by your letter of today, since it was based on what appeared to be a wilful distortion of the text of my article.

When we spoke you conceded that you were more concerned by the headline and the BBC coverage, though you accepted that I was not responsible for those.

Sir David Norgrove (pictured) publicly rebuked Mr Johnson for reviving his referendum pledge to take back control of roughly 350million a week

Mr Johnson demanded Sir David withdraw what he said was a complete misrepresentation.

Defending his claim, he added: I in fact said, Once we have settled our accounts we will take back control of roughly 350million per week. It would be a fine thing, as many of us have pointed out, if a lot of that money went on the NHS.

That is very different from claiming that there would be an extra 350million available for public spending and I am amazed that you should impute such a statement to me.

A spokesman for Sir David last night indicated he would not budge, saying he stands by the criticism in his original letter.

The row came as Mr Johnson stepped up calls for the NHS to be handed a Brexit dividend following the UKs departure from the EU.

Vote Leaves pledge to repatriate 350million a week from the EU was emblazoned on the side of its campaign bus and became one of the most contentious claims of last years referendum

Vote Leaves pledge to repatriate 350million a week from the EU was emblazoned on the side of its campaign bus and became one of the most contentious claims of last years referendum.

The statistics watchdog rebuked the group for continuing to use the misleading figure during the referendum campaign.

A House of Commons Library briefing states that last years gross contribution to the EU totalled 16.9billion  equal to about 325million a week. But critics claim not all of this would be available for additional public spending. Last years gross figure included a 4.8billion rebate and 4.1billion of EU spending in this country.

During the referendum campaign, the statistics watchdog pointed out that the Treasury pays the UKs contributions to the EU after deducting the value of the rebate. And Sir David said yesterday that the 350million figure confuses gross and net contributions.
Our dullard Establishment hates anyone with a vision. But that is exactly how Boris Johnson described his article which has caused such hyperventilational hand-flapping among Remain snobs.

Heres my Brexit vision, said swashbuckling Boris. And what a magnificent, upbeat, tolerant vision it was.

Freedom to run our own business sector without Brussels setting our regulations and taxes. Immigration laws to suit Britain (not Bulgaria or Romania or Berlins Frau Merkel).

And the right to say how we spend that weekly 350million  and yes, whatever the BBC says, that IS how much of our cash is currently under the say of boozy Brussels bigwig Jean-Claude Juncker.

Boris Johnson (pictured) has presented a 'magnificent, upbeat, tolerant vision' of Brexit, according to Quentin Letts

Boris diplomatically did not have a go at M Juncker in his article but he hardly needed to.

European Commission president Juncker has already achieved cut-through on the streets of Britain and he has become a wonderful vote-winner for Brexit.

His pompous antics and now naked political ambitions (which were disguised during the referendum campaign but became apparent with his state of the union speech last week when he called for ever-greater tax powers for Brussels) have left larger numbers of British voters thinking thank goodness were leaving.

This is one of the things Brussels, the Blairites, pro-EU Tories and the absurd Lib Dems at their conference down in Bournemouth do not acknowledge: British Euroscepticism is now stronger than it was last June.

The Remainers only hope is in the elite somehow neutering Brexit behind the scenes in parliamentary committees and inside Downing Street.

That is what they are trying to do, but thanks to Boris and (though sadly to a lesser extent) his fellow Brexiteer ministers such as David Davis and Liam Fox, it is by no means certain they will succeed.

Westminsters heebie-jeebies about Boriss weekend article must puzzle those outside the political bubble  the people of places such as Sunderland and Stoke-on-Trent and Walsall and Wigan who so firmly voted for Brexit.

Boris said he backed Mrs May and he firmly reiterated what she said in her Lancaster House speech in January. Whats the problem?

Scottish Conservative Party leader Ruth Davidson (pictured) said Boris Johnson should be thinking only of public service so soon after the Parsons Green Tube bomb

True, he touched on education and health policy, areas of government policy beyond his brief, but as holder of one of the great offices of state he has a right to offer his world view on such matters.

Boris is Foreign Secretary, and therefore most certainly has a right  a duty  to say what he thinks about the Brexit process. It is very much his business, despite what pro-Remain Home Secretary Amber Rudd said yesterday when she attacked Mr Johnson for back-seat driving.

Then there is the quibble about timing. The Scottish Tories Europhile Ruth Davidson  a talented politician who could well be next Tory leader, if only she could swallow the democratic verdict on Brexit  said Boris should be thinking only of public service so soon after the Parsons Green Tube bomb.

Without wishing to diminish the disgracefulness of that terror attack, this seems an overly prissy position. Why the heck should our politics be paralysed by would-be terrorists? Londoners are made of solid stuff. Miss Davidson should not patronise them by suggesting we must all go into black-crepe purdah every time some Isis punk tries it on.

Ah, continue Boriss critics, but he should not have spoken out so close to the big speech Mrs May is going to give in Italy on Friday. And now, perhaps, we step closer to the nub. Here is petty politics in the raw.

Boris Johnson (right) said he backed Prime Minister Theresa May (centre) and he firmly reiterated what she said in her Lancaster House speech in January, said Quentin Letts

Miss Rudd and Chancellor Philip Hammond and First Secretary Damian Green, all former Remainers and members of the Downing Street court, may have thought they had Theresa May in the bag.

With that Italian speech looming, was the Rudd/Hammond/Green axis prematurely congratulating itself that it had forced the PM to concede important ground to Brussels on how much of a divorce payment we will give the EU?

Can we not imagine Downing Streets Cabinet Secretary, the egregious Sir Jeremy Heywood, oiling the cogs for Rudd/Hammond/Green? Boris was away in the Caribbean last week, offering solidarity to our dependent territories damaged by Hurricane Irma. What a perfect time for all that Press briefing that Mrs May was preparing to weaken her position on the divorce payment.

Boris, now back in Britain, thinks we should be prepared to tell the EU to get stuffed if need be. His article may certainly make it harder for Remainers to give billions of pounds of taxpayers money to the EU. Hooray!

For weeks this Foreign Secretary has been effectively silenced on Brexit by the Whitehall machine. The Civil Services compromise merchants were appalled by the thought of Boris sticking to the principles on which he and Nigel Farage and pro-Leave Labour politicians won the Referendum. No doubt some of the Cabinets former Remainers felt a smidgen of envy that Boris backed the winning side last June.

Amber Rudd (pictured), who campaigned for Remain in the EU referendum, has been critical of Mr Johnson

I have not always been a total Boris fan. His bedroom palavers, his tendency to try to busk through problems and his eye for the main chance are all major drawbacks. But he has a little-rivalled connection with the voters. His ability to discuss politics in a pungent, picaresque way, is something the Hammonds and Greens of this world lack. What anti-democratic bores many Remainers are.

It has to be admitted that since last years thrilling Leave vote, Brexiteers have been outgunned in the media and Parliament. Did they ill-advisedly think the battle was won? Or was it inevitable that Remainers would resist the will of the people last June?

The status-quo brigade continue to hold most of the top positions in public life and they are determined not to give up their perks without a dirty fight.

Westminsters elite, particularly the House of Lords, is in a furious sulk about June 2016s amazing democratic result. On the airwaves and in the broadsheet Press, the Remain side has most of the firepower. Our broadcasters (not least yesterday mornings political programme on Sky) are aggressively pro-EU.

The Financial Times and Economist, both read (and believed!) by Eurocrats, are forever undermining Brexit. No wonder Brussels has got it into its mind that our Government will meekly hand over scores of billions of pounds simply to leave the EU club.

The readiness of some politicians and commentators to support a hefty divorce payment is bizarre  the political equivalent of terrible self-harm. These billions belong to us, not to the chancelleries of Europe.

What sort of madness grips an MP (such as Labours arch-Remainer David Lammy) who recommends that we willingly hand over all that gold? This money should be spent on British nurses and doctors, British police officers and firemen, British soldiers and care workers. This should be a great working-class cause. And yet centre-Leftists want the dosh to be given away to Brussels!

Until Boriss contribution at the weekend it was as though the waters had almost closed over last summers revolution and our club-class rulers felt they could resume business as normal. Boriss blood-stirring blast may force them to think again.
Report author Iain Duncan Smith warned that the UKs reluctance to invest in training a generation of British workers had led to an over-reliance on cheap labour

Neglecting Britains unskilled workers and relying on cheap labour from abroad have damaged productivity, a report warns today.

The countrys sluggish rate of growth is due to a lack of training of the bottom 20 per cent of unskilled workers, the Centre for Social Justice says.

Report author Iain Duncan Smith warned that the UKs reluctance to invest in training a generation of British workers had led to an over-reliance on cheap labour.

The former work and pensions secretary called on the Government to invest in training or face no rise in living standards.

To kick-start UK productivity, business has a role to play in upskilling their workforce and investing in innovation, he said.

The arrival of cheap labour en masse has been damaging to the UK economys long-term prospects. We now face a set of challenges; most important of these is Brexit. If we are to turn this challenge into an opportunity we must re-double our efforts to reverse these damaging trends.

We must act now to invest in our people, invest in technology and secure our place in the most cutting-edge industries or risk living standards falling for decades to come.

British businesses have been short-termist, opting for cheap labour rather than investing in the existing workforce and in new technology, the report warns.

It condemned the wasted potential of the low-paid and low-skilled sectors, which are the least productive, at a time when technology is advancing. The report added that Britain required a higher-skilled UK workforce to master new technology, analyse more data and communicate with people around the world.

To kick-start UK productivity, business has a role to play in upskilling their workforce and investing in innovation, Duncan Smith said

The report by Mr Duncan Smith, economist Gerard Lyons and several top business leaders, found the bottom 20 per cent of the workforce had suffered most. It said a lack of investment by business and poor education had prevented British workers, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, making the most of their natural abilities.

Mr Duncan Smith warned that while many unskilled workers still had jobs, wages had barely increased in the past ten years.

The next task is to raise living standards by boosting productivity across the low-skilled demographic, he added.

The UK has a long-term problem with stagnant productivity, especially in key sectors, such as manufacturing, the report said. It found a link between low-skilled, low-wage jobs and low productivity.

A significant proportion of the least productive workers are found in low-wage service industries, such as hospitality and administration, it said.

Britain also lags behind its neighbours in rates of job progression. Less than 15 per cent of low-wage, low-skilled workers progress to middle-wage, middle-skilled occupations  a smaller ratio than in Sweden, Belgium and Spain.

The report also reveals a large productivity gulf between the South East and the rest of the country. Out of the 20 most productive local authority districts in the country, nine are in London.
The parents of a 13-year-old boy who took his own life earlier this year said they are still struggling to come to terms with their son's inexplicable decision and death.

Jimi McDowell, a sportsmad, funny and well-liked teenager, committed suicide at a park near his home in Morley, Perth, in late February.

Six months later, his devastated parents Debra Brumby and Jason McDowell have revealed they still coming to terms with Jimi's death, as it came as a complete shock.

'My head knows it's real but my heart keeps saying this isn't possible, it can't be real, how am I supposed to go on now,' Ms Brumby told Perth Now as she choked back tears.

'(Georgie) is the reason. She's the only reason I get up in the mornings. I've got no choice, I've got to keep going for this one's sake. But the flip side is the pain. Because this is now a life sentence,' she said, referring to Jimi's younger sister, who pretends her brother is on a holiday with friends.

Scroll down for video

Perth teenager Jimi McDowell tragically took his own life earlier this year, just two weeks before his 14th birthday

Jimi was sportsmad, a keen rugby player and was the captain of his team last year

His parents (pictured) said they are still struggling to come to terms with their son's inexplicable decision and death

Ms Brumby and Mr McDowell said they are speaking of their grief in the hope no other parent will ever have to experience the same loss.

Ms Brumby said Jimi never showed signs of depression and was a fun-loving teenager with 'more friends than he knew what to do with.'

'He was a really happy kid. The only time you saw him unhappy was when he was grounded,' Ms Brumby told Daily Mail Australia in May.

'He was funny, he was sweet, he had the biggest heart.'

Ms Brumby said Jimi was a keen rugby player and was the captain of his team last year.

It was after he got into trouble with his mother for being suspended from school that Jimi made the split second decision to commit suicide in a public park.

'In one little moment, he felt like he had let mum and dad down,' Ms Brumby said.

He was rushed to hospital but his life support was switched off two days later.

Jimmi's mother, Debra Brumby, said the 13-year-old 'had the biggest heart'

Jimmi was well-liked among his peers and had a wide circle of friends

Jimi's father said his son was an active teenager and his unexpected death was 'a jolt out of the blue'

After his death, Jimi's kidneys were donated, which were given to two people on dialysis.

'I felt like I just wanted my boy back,' Ms Brumby said.

She said there needed to be a broader conversation within the community around suicide.

'Stop sweeping suicides under the carpet,' she said.

'People are afraid to talk to talk to their kids about it. Parents need to be talking to their kids [about suicide].'

Jimi's father said his son was an active teenager and his unexpected death was 'a jolt out of the blue'.

Jimi's parents, Jason McDowell and Debra Brumby, want a broader conversation within the community around suicide

'He wasn't a recluse, he didn't hide in his room, there was no signs,' Mr McDowell told 7 News.

Mr McDowell joined Ms Brumby in calling for changes to society's attitude towards suicide.

'Why can't we talk about it [suicide], why is it taboo? Get it out there. People have got to know,' Mr McDowell said.

For confidential support call the 24-hour crisis support Lifeline on 13 11 14. Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.
A skywriter believed to have written 'VOTE NO' above Sydney at the weekend has been deluged with abusive messages.

Yes supporters rounded on Skywriting Australia after claiming the business had sketched the words in the sky.

A company mobile phone number was widely shared on Facebook and several social media users shared angry messages they had sent it.

One message seen by Daily Mail Australia called the business owner an 'a***hole' while another post said it was 'probably the end of your business'.

The spring blue skies above Sydney were emblazoned with 'Vote No' skywriting on Sunday

One of the messages sent to the skywriting business by a Facebook user on Sunday

Another message sent to the company and later shared on Facebook

'Vote yes a***hole,' one Yes supporter told the business - before being criticised for 'destroying a business for not agreeing with you'

Another said: 'You're definitely the biggest piece of s*** in Australia today. Probably tomorrow too.

'Hope you're proud of yourself. Don't be surprised by the hate coming for you.

'Titt for tatt, it's only fair right? You stupid, ignorant, remorseless pathetic, old, LOSER'.

Flight tracking information confirmed the skywriting was performed by a Cessna owned by Skywriting Australia, whose charges start from $3990.

But the company has not responded to questions about whether it was responsible for the writing.

The business was contacted for comment on Monday morning, however calls to a mobile number went straight to voicemail and its Facebook page was deleted.

The No campaign denied playing a role in the skywriting, with the Coalition for Marriage telling the Australian Associated Press it was a 'grassroots' action.

A Facebook user here said 'sorry... this is probably the end of your business'

'You chose to be a terrible company,' said this user

The stunt was purportedly funded by an anonymous GoFundMe group.

The GoFundMe group has claimed the crowdfunding site had 'decided to freeze our funds until we give our names and locations'.

'We are obviously keen to stay fairly anonymous due to the sheer amount of hate and threats we have received on this campaign by those who mask their hate with 'Equality'', the group said.

Skywriting Australia drew the word 'TRUMP' in the sky during the Woman's March in January.

It told media a group of the President's Australian supporters had stumped up $4000 for the sign.
Many children may be missing out on religious education at school, a report suggests.

It claims up to one in four secondaries in England are struggling to meet their legal obligation to teach pupils about major religions and belief systems.

A quarter of the schools polled for the report said they do not offer the subject to all students at GCSE level (aged 14 to 16).

This is likely to be fuelled by a range of factors such as the fact that RE is not included in the English Baccalaureate, a school performance measure that recognises youngsters who studied a group of academic subjects.

Many children may be missing out on religious education at school, a report suggests (file photo)

In addition, the survey found differences between types of schools, with 96 per cent of faith schools saying they offer the subject to all 14 to 16-year-olds, compared with 73 per cent of academies.

The report is published by the Religious Education Council and the National Association of Teachers of RE (NATRE). Information gathered by the two organisations from the Governments workforce census under a Freedom of Information request also suggests that some schools are not teaching RE.

The request asked for the number of hours of RE each secondary school in England taught to each year group from Year 7 to Year 11.

For each year group the proportion of schools teaching no hours in 2015 was around one in four, the report calculates, with the highest proportion being around 28 per cent for Year 11.

Deborah Weston, NATREs research officer, said: Whilst many schools, including academies and free schools, are continuing to deliver good RE, these statistics highlight serious problems that have implications for cohesion and inclusivity in our society, as well as presenting questions around the role of specialist RE teachers in schools.

By developing knowledge and understanding about different religions and world views in the security of a classroom, young people have the opportunity to engage with complex, diverse and constantly evolving subject matter.

It claims up to one in four secondaries in England are struggling to meet their legal obligation to teach pupils about major religions and belief systems (file photo)

But Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said schools may be teaching the subject in different ways, rather than through specific RE lessons.

They might be teaching through conferences, they might be using citizenship lessons, they might be using assemblies, he told the BBC.

A Department for Education spokesman said: Religious education remains compulsory for all state-funded schools, including academies and free schools, at all key stages and we expect all schools to fulfil their statutory duties.

It is up to schools to decide how to offer RE, whether it is through classes in the subject, or alongside other topics, the spokesman said.
The Liberal Democrats have backed calls for a plastic bottle deposit scheme  as pressure mounts on the Government to take action.

It comes after Scotland announced a deposit plan and Prince Charles supported the proposal.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove has suggested that Westminster could follow suit with the great idea.

It has gathered support from all parties, but now the Lib Dems have publicly backed the scheme  which already operates in several countries.

The Daily Mail has previously called for an end to the tide of plastic waste polluting Britain with our Banish the Bags and Curb the Cups campaigns.

The UK currently recycles just 57 per cent of the millions of bottles sold each day. The rest end up in landfill or as litter, polluting beaches and green areas

The UK currently recycles just 57 per cent of the millions of bottles sold each day. The rest end up in landfill or as litter, polluting beaches and green areas.

A recent YouGov survey found that 73 per cent of people support or strongly support the idea of deposits on bottles and drink cans.

Last week, MPs from all parties backed the scheme and presented a petition signed by 250,000 people supporting the idea to Downing Street.

Earlier this month, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said a deposit and return scheme will apply to plastic and glass bottles and aluminium cans.

She said it would do more to support the circular economy and reduce waste.

Liberal Democrat environment spokesman Kate Parminter said that a bottle deposit scheme is 'crucial'

Countries such as Germany, Sweden and Belgium already have successful schemes which reward shoppers who return bottles with cash.

Now the Lib Dems have signalled their support for the scheme as they unveil an environmental strategy.

They approved stronger protections for the environment and a tough new environmental regulator at their annual conference in Bournemouth yesterday.

They are also calling for ministers to report annually to Parliament on the state of the UK environment and put forward a Nature Act.

The party also supported the Mails successful plastic bag-charging scheme which was introduced while they were in coalition government.

The introduction of the 5p charge in England in 2015, which followed Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, has cut the number of bags handed out by 83 per cent by some estimates, equivalent to six billion a year.

Good causes supported by the charge includes everything from anti-litter initiatives to beach clean-ups, new playgrounds and cancer care nurses.

Last week it was announced that MPs from all parties on the Commons committee will look at whether to include coffee cups in the scheme.

The UK throws away approximately 2.5 billion coffee cups every year, of which less than one in 400 are recycled.

The Lib Dems set out proposals for a non-recyclable coffee cup charge in their manifesto for the General Election campaign. Liberal Democrat environment spokesman Kate Parminter said: A bottle deposit scheme is crucial if we are to tackle Britains plastic litter crisis. Waste from plastic bottles is spiralling out of control, blighting our seas and countryside and clogging up our landfill sites. This is a common-sense proposal that enjoys widespread public support.

It would build on the huge success of the 5p plastic bag charge introduced by the Liberal Democrats in government.
Hillary Clinton doesn't believe her husband's tarmac meeting with former Attorney General Loretta Lynch ruined public perception of her or cost her the election.

The former presidential candidate spoke to PBS while promoting her new book 'What Happened.'

She has blamed many factors for why she lost to President Donald Trump, including but not limited to Facebook, former FBI director James Comey and the Electoral College.

But Clinton 'rejects' the notion that Bill's meeting with the attorney general who was investigating her emails cost her the election.

She admitted it was a bad look and blames Comey above Lynch.

Hillarry Clinton said she did not think Loretta Lynch's meeting with her husband on the tarmac of a Phoenix airport cost her the election

When Judy Woodruff asked whether or not this was a fatal mistake, Clinton responded: 'I honestly reject that premise, partly because theres a chain of command in the Justice Department.

'Theres a deputy attorney general. We all now know who it was, Sally Yates, a woman of experience and integrity.

'We knew at the time, after it was reported that, you know, both my husband and Loretta Lynch said they didnt say a word about this. The optics were not good. I admit that.

Clinton then turned the conversation back to James Comey: 'But in this chain of command, if the attorney general is recused, you know, the deputy attorney general. And what we know happened is that the investigation was getting nowhere. There was nothing to find. And he was in a position of having to accept the evidence that there was no case.'

Because of the optics of Loretta Lynch meeting with Bill while she was investigating his wife, she said she would agree to what the FBI director recommended

'The optics were not good': Hillary Clinton admitted it was a bad look when her husband met with Loretta Lynch who agreed to accept the FBI director's recommendations as to not appear biased

Comey essentially led the investigation into Clinton's private email server before Lynch pulled back as a result of the June meeting.

Clinton said the main reason for her defeat was James Comey's October 28 letter that the investigation into her email server was reopened.

Woodruff reiterated the question and pointed out because of the meeting, Lynch agreed to accept what the FBI director said as far as whether or not Clinton would be charged.

Because of this, Comey became a more prominent figure in the investigation which led to the October 28 letter.

Clinton said: 'I just dont  Judy, I dont believe that.

'I mean, he was in a position that was subordinate to the chain of command in the Justice Department. So, Loretta Lynch recuses. Its like when Sessions recused. The deputy attorney general steps forward and starts, you know, running the investigation.'

Comey said the meeting between Bill Clinton and Lynch was 'extremely careless' but did not recommend charges for the incident.
And they accuse the Tories of banging on about Europe! Down here at the Lib Dems conference in Bournemouth, they were speaking about little else yesterday. Anti-Brexit drone-drone-drone.

Conference-goers wore knitted EU berets (less stylish than Sir Ming Campbells Panama hat) and baggy EU sweatshirts.

A knot of blue flag-waving desperadoes gathered on a cliff overlooking the sea. Good grief, I thought: are they going to make the ultimate gesture and leap over the edge?

Inside the conference hall, ancients clapped furiously when anyone said: We should exit from Brexit.

Leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable attends the Liberal Democrats annual Conference at the Bournemouth International Centre

One speaker referred to the EU as the mainland. And there was a nervous young man whose tongue took a mind of its own and made him plead for the party to have a queer and unequivocal stance on Europe. Oops. He possibly meant clear.

Several activists claimed that the Lib Dems were the only party to be united in a view on Europe. This was not entirely true. A handful of souls voiced unease about the party so stubbornly setting its face against last years Leave vote in the EU referendum.

A lad called Andy from Wantage was in the process of telling the conference that it was a bad idea for a governing class to ignore the will of the people when  brzzzzt  the red time-limit light burst into life and he was firmly told to return to his seat.

Niall Hodgson, a councillor from Sunderland, argued that opposing Brexit was shackling us and you may have noticed it is not particularly popular.

He said the partys anti-Brexit stance made it very hard for him, in the north-east of England, to mention the national party on his campaign leaflets.

Mr Hodgson received some applause yet when it came to a vote he was ignored and the inmates voted to retain those shackles.

I really could become PM, says Sir Vince Sir Vince Cable has insisted he is a plausible candidate for prime minister as he set out his stall as leader yesterday. He claimed he could replace Theresa May despite leading a party of only 12 MPs. Asked about his prospects, the former business minister told BBC1s The Andrew Marr Show: I think its perfectly plausible, actually. As leader of the third UK party, my job is to be the alternative prime minister. Sir Vince said British politics was in a state of flux with the Conservative and Labour parties both engaged in civil war. However his comments coincided with him being reported to police over his election expenses. Stuart Coster, co-founder of the Peoples Pledge, said it sent a dossier to the Met detailing claims Sir Vince overspent by at least 4,000. The group, which campaigned for an EU referendum, claims some of the leaders personal claims have been wrongly allocated to national spending. Advertisement

Jo Swinson MP raged about the anti-liberal forces which swept Donald Trump to office.

Actually, Trump is in some senses a liberal in that he is sceptical about centralised officialdom.

Lib Dems love telling other people how to live their lives whereas liberals are live and let live.

Miss Swinson is a classic of the genre. She delivers a speech with numerous golly-gosh facial gestures and big fish hand movements but her patronising primary school-teacher ways are matched by a belief in a nannying elite.

If the Lib Dems want to identify their next leader they might be better advised to avoid la Swinson and consider a member of the Scots parliament, Alex Cole-Hamilton. He said he wept bitterly at the Leave vote. He at least spoke in a more immediate, connecting way than drippy Swinson.

The current leader, Sir Vince Cable, did a Q&A session in the afternoon. Snoozy and pessimistic.

Meanwhile, a Macclesfield activist called Richard said that the conference should not rule out the possibility of the Lib Dems winning the next general election. This was heard without laughter.

If I have to I will spend 40 years getting us back into Europe, cried Richard. I want to change the world!

Wera Hobhouse MP said she held regular marches through her Bath constituency to take the pulse of Europe. Former MP Julian Huppert ran up the steps to the stage to wail I am proud to be a European citizen! and then jogged back to his seat, chest puffed. The sketchwriting guild misses Huppert. He was always good for business.

A squeaky-voiced gent from Hertfordshire spoke about the European Court of Justice but it was hard to understand, his teeth were whistling so much. Another man said the EU referendum was the sort of thing Hitler would have done.

Lisa from Hazel Grove claimed the Lib Dems had a long and proud record of being right. Another former MP and former MEP, Liz Lynne, said the partys manifesto was not properly understood by the electorate at the general election.

Those dimwit voters!
A family in Queensland have been given the fright of their lives after finding a red belly black snake in a flatpack furniture box.

The family, from Coomera, called Queensland snake catcher Tony Harrison to help remove the slippery serpent from their home.

In a video uploaded by Mr Harrison on Sunday, the venomous snake can be seen darting out from underneath what appears to be a table top packed in a furniture box.

The removal of the snake takes place in the family garage, while a toddler sits on the stairs to watch.

Mr Harrisons's female partner wrangles the snake as it slithers from its hiding spot, picking it up and moving away from the family.

The serpent can be heard hissing furiously as it's wrangled, while Mr Harrison snaps a few shots of the creature.

The snake begins to thrash around and slaps itself on the garage floor while being held by the catcher.

A man in the background can be heard asking if the snake is venomous, to which the snake catchers explain yes.

A Queensland family called snake catchers to remove a red belly black snake from their home

'S**t,' the man replies.

'You get lots of these around this area because they eat frogs, and you've got a lot of water around here,' the snake catchers said in the video.

The woman explains red belly black snakes are 'usually quite calm' but will defend themselves if they feel threatened.

As the snake thrashes around and continues to hiss angrily, the snake catchers ready a cloth bag to place the creature in.

The serpent can be heard hissing furiously as it's wrangled away from the family, including a toddler

Opening the bag at the snake's head, the catcher patiently waits for the slippery serpent to lunge for the bag before dropping the snake inside.

The family open the garage once the snake is safely placed in the bag and the cloth is twisted to make sure the deadly creature can't escape.

Red belly black snakes are common along the east coast of Australia and deliver a bite that can prove fatal if not treated properly.
Theresa May (pictured) is gearing up to offer the EU a divorce payment worth up to 30billion in a bid to break the deadlock on a post-Brexit trade deal

The Prime Minister is gearing up to offer the EU a divorce payment worth up to 30billion in a bid to break the deadlock on a post-Brexit trade deal.

Senior Tories believe Theresa May will use a speech in Florence on Friday to confirm that the UK is willing to continue contributing to the EU budget during a two-year transition period.

A source said the Cabinet was almost unanimous in its support for the proposal, with only Boris Johnson arguing for a shorter transition and lower payments.

The Foreign Secretary is said to be unhappy at any deal that would pay Brussels more than 10billion. But the EU has tabled demands for as much as 90billion.

EU leaders have demanded that the UK agree a formula for calculating a final divorce bill before negotiations on a future free-trade deal can begin. First Secretary of State Damian Green  one of Mrs Mays allies  yesterday indicated the PM was preparing to make a serious offer this week.

Asked if payments would automatically end when Britain leaves the EU in 2019, Mr Green said: Lets see.

He added: I think that the other capitals of Europe, the governments and the commission I hope and expect will welcome what the Prime Minister has to say. Im not going to reveal any details of it, but because weve had these few months of negotiations you know we can see where the key points at issue are and they will be addressed in the Prime Ministers speech.

Mr Green said the UK would continue to pay into EU projects, including membership of the Europol crime-fighting organisation. Eurosceptic Cabinet ministers had been initially suspicious of a transitional deal.

A senior Tory source said: Almost everyone now agrees there will have to be a transition and that we will have to pay a fee during it.

EU leaders, including European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) have demanded that the UK agree a formula for calculating a final divorce bill

But Boris seems to be very much against any transition lasting longer than six months and opposed to paying anything for it.

French president Emmanuel Macron was first to table a proposal for continued payments during a transition, suggesting a minimum of 10billion a year over three years.

A Government source described the proposal as constructive, and Mrs May is expected to discuss the idea with Mr Macron in New York later this week.

The Governments legal advice states that the EU has no right to demand any money after the UK leaves in March 2019.

But some ministers, including Chancellor Philip Hammond, argue agreement on the principle could revive the possibility of starting trade negotiations next month.
Advertisement

Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer made a surprise cameo appearance at the 69th Emmys and helped Stephen Colbert mock his old boss President Trump.

He was wheeled out on a White House-esq podium and re-created his now infamous Trump inauguration claim that it was biggest attendance in history.

Spicer appeared after Colbert unleashed a blistering string of jabs about Trump, calling him a 'morally corrupt anti-hero,' a 'whiter Walter White', poking fun at his obsession with ratings and tweeting.

The Late Show host also performed a song which included the lyrics 'treason is better on TV', while flashing a shot of Trump and Vladimir Putin, and 'Imagine if your president was not beloved by Nazis'. He also took a shot at his failure to win the popular vote during the election.

Spicer and Colbert were joined by a long line of celebrities who criticized the president and his policies throughout the three-hour CBS broadcast, where politics was placed firmly in the spotlight.

Jane Fonda called him a bigot, Alec Baldwin ridiculed his failure to win an Emmy, Donald Glover he accused him of oppressing black people and Julia Louis-Dreyfus made an impeachment joke.

Scroll for video

Sean Spicer was wheeled out during Stephen Colbert's opening monologue to the shock of celebrities sitting in the audience at the Microsoft Theater in LA Sunday

Stephen Colbert cracked that if Donald Trump had gotten an Emmy for 'The Apprentice' maybe he wouldn't have run for President

McCarthy was surprised to see her SNL 'doppelganger' wheeled onstage. She led the star-studded audience in their shock at the former press secretary's cameo

Veep star Anna Chlumsky's face summed up the audience's reaction as Spicer was wheeled onstage behind the podium

EVERY JOKE AND JAB AT TRUMP AT THE EMMYS Colbert's opening monologue took a more benevolent turn when he urged people to keep donations coming to those in need after hurricanes ravaged both Florida and Texas STEPHEN COLBERT 'Of course, there's no way anyone could possibly watch that much TV, other than the president, who seems to have a lot of time for that sort of thing. Hello sir, thank you for joining us! Looking forward to the tweets. 'We know that the biggest TV star of the last year is Donald Trump. No, we may not like it, but he's the biggest star. And you know, Alec Baldwin, obviously. You guys are neck and neck. And Alec, you're up against a lot of neck. 'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way. 'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story'. 'We all know that the Emmys mean a lot to Donald Trump because he was nominated multiple times for 'Celebrity Apprentice,' but he never won. Why didn't you give him an Emmy? I'll tell you this  if he had won an Emmy, I bet he wouldn't have run for president. So this is all your fault. I thought you people love morally compromised antiheroes. You like Walter White. 'And he never forgave you, and he never will. The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Camera pans to Meyers, with marbles falling out of his mouth). 'And even during the campaign, he wouldn't let it go. This actually happened, this exchange actually happened in the debates. (Goes to video showing Clinton mentioning Trump's Emmy loss in debate) 'But he didn't. Because unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote. Where do I find the courage to tell that joke in this room? Of course, what really matters to Donald Trump is ratings. He's got to have the big numbers, and I certainly hope we achieve that tonight. 'Unfortunately, at this point, we have no way of knowing how big our audience is. I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know? (Moment Sean Spicer comes out on podium). 'The Americans has hotter spies than the Russia inquiry, even treason's better on TV' In a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.' SEAN SPICER 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.' Sean Spicer in a nod to the former WH flack's now infamous claim President Trump's crowd was the largest in history.' COLBERT RESPONDS: 'Wow, that really soothes my fragile ego. I can understand why you'd want one of these guys around. Melissa McCarthy everyone, give it up! Beautiful.' 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Veep star Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song. 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.' ALEC BALDWIN 'I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,' Baldwin said while accepting the award for his portrayal of the President on SNL. 'Orange wig proved to be effective' birth control, cracked Baldwin during his acceptance speech after he said he and wife Hilaria haven't had a child in three years. JANE FONDA, LILY TOMLIN AND DOLLY PARTON 'Back in 1980 in that movie (9 to 5), we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot. 'And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.' DONALD GLOVER Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list' during one of his Emmys acceptance speeches. 'He's the reason I'm probably up here,' he added. JOHN LITHGOW 'First and foremost, I want to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life reminds us what courage and leadership in government looks like.' KUMAIL NANJIANI 'They (the nominees for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program) also celebrate people who frantically race across international borders, and those who can scale walls really, really quickly. In other words, the president's worst nightmare.' SETH MYERS The late night hoset took on physical comedy as Trump had previously called him 'marble mouthed' when he was hosting in 2014 on Twitter. The tweet flashed on screen as cameras cut to Meyers drooling marbles Advertisement

Politics even made its way into the winners. The Handmaid's Tale with took home six goings for its bleak portrait of an authoritarian America.

The glitzy ceremony in downtown Los Angeles - the first under the administration of President Donald Trump - was widely expected to have a strongly political flavor.

'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way,' Colbert began.

'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story.''

This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world Sean Spicer

But it was Spicer's cameo that drew the most shocked reaction.

As he appeared 'Spicey' cracked 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.'

Spicer was brought out to a surprised room full of celebrities whose jaws dropped when they saw the president's former mouth piece at the Microsoft Theater in LA.

As the former White House flack was wheeled offstage, Colbert said 'Thank you Melissa McCarthy!' a nod to the actress's fantastic impersonation of Spicer on Saturday Night Live.

Colbert also jokingly scolded Emmy voters for not giving Trump an Emmy for 'The Apprentice,' posing that maybe if he had his own an Emmy he wouldn't have run for President.

'I thought you guys loved morally compromised antiheroes,' he said of Trump, then called him 'Walter Whiter,' in reference to the 'Breaking Bad' character who won several Emmys for Bryan Cranston.

He also hilariously noted: 'Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote.'

The awards show put Trump's seeming obsession with the Emmys front and center when they showed his 2012 tweet in which he shared his dismay over his reality show 'The Apprentice' not scoring the coveted golden statue

Did he make it out alive? Spicer has caught the ire of Hollywood while managing to become the butt of jokes after his run as press secretary - but he was happy to pose up with various celebrities - including the one who mocks his boss

Baldwin slammed Trump for his unsuccessful Emmy nominations in the past for The Apprentice - while he picked up the Best Supporting Actor award for his impression of the president on Saturday Night Live

Spicer also got a picture with Emmys host Stephen Colbert, who made several jabs at Trump throughout the night, Dolly Parton and James Corden - who planted a kiss on his cheek

The president in 2012 vented his frustrations after his reality show The Apprentice did not get one of the coveted gold statues given at the Emmys.

'The Emmys are all politics, that's why, despite nominations, The Apprentice never won--even though it should have many times over,' Trump tweeted at the time.

During a spirited opening song with several celebrity appearances, Julia Louis-Dreyfus sang how nice it would be to have a president who 'was not beloved by Nazis.'

Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote Stephen Colbert

With Colbert chiming in 'Even treason's better on TV,' as an image flashes of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.

Later in a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.'

Trump was not the only politician who was found in the cross hairs of Colbert's deadpan delivery.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz was just caught up in a scandal where his Twitter account 'liked' a hardcore porn video.

Colbert did not miss the opportunity to bring the mishap into his opening diatribe.

When talking about the myriad of steaming services available, the host jested: 'These days everyone loves streaming video, just ask Ted Cruz, but knock first. You don't wanna just walk in.'

The host did take time out from berating Republicans to thank first responders for their contributions during Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Harvey which devastated Florida and Texas respectively.

'While we're thanking people, no one deserves more thanks than our first responders', he said.

'They have been working tirelessly following the disasters in Texas and Florida' adding that there is still time to donate to the efforts in the neighborhoods hit hardest by the natural disasters.

Marble mouthed 2014 Emmy host: Trump called Seth Meyers hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2012 when he was upset he didn't win an Emmy for 'The Apprentice.' Colbert flashed Trump's tweet as Meyers drooled marbles out of his mouth

Loser no more? Trump didn't win an Emmy for his show The Apprentice in 2014 taking to his perennial favorite platform Twitter to call Meyers 'very awkward with almost no talent'

Alec Baldwin smiled in the audience as Colbert cracked at the actor's impersonation of the president on SNL this season

L to R: Stars of tv series '9 to 5' Lily Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda took aim at the president without naming him- comparing him to a character in their 1980's series who was described as a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss'

Sean Spicer stole the show during the opening monologue as he shocked the house packed with celebrities, many with who are of the more liberal persuasion

Colbert also took aim at Bill Maher for using the N-word during on his HBO show after speaking on the most black nominees ever during this year's awards: 'I assume he's black since he's so comfortable using the N-word. I don't know. Goodnight! That's my time everybody.'

However several celebrity presenters and those accepting awards decided to keep the spotlight on Trump, as the hits on his reign kept on coming later in the program.

The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Marbles fall out of Meyers' mouth).

Trump called Seth Meyers Emmy's hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2014.

Colbert started off by saying 'He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, ''That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!'' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth?'

Cameras cut to Meyers dribbling marbles out of his mouth in response.

Baldwin came to the stage accepting the Emmy and started off his speech by saying: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'

After its most-watched season in 23 years, 'Saturday Night Live' won nine Emmys, including best variety sketch series, for actress Kate McKinnon and for Melissa McCarthy's turn as Spicer.

Soon after Baldwin picked up the accolade, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton, came on stage to present an award and made a joke about their 1980s movie 9 to 5, at Trump's expense.

Tomlin and Fonda said in 1980 they didn't put up with a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss' and they won't today either, in a clear knock at Trump.

Donald Glover won his first Emmy win for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, making him the first black director to ever win the category.

Julia Louis Dreyfus, who portrays a POTUS on the HBO show 'Veep' received a round of applause after she joked the show decided to skip an impeachment line as they figured 'someone else might get to it first'

Donald Glover accepts Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series and thanked the president for making blacks in America 'number one on the most oppressed list'

He used the speech to make a jibe at the president.

Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list.'

Julia Louis Dreyfus who is starring in the hit show 'Veep' as President Selina Meyer on the HBO comedy, jested 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.'

The joke received a rousing applause from the fairly liberal Hollywood elite crowd.

Meanwhile, several celebrities walked the carpet wearing blue ribbons, but it wasn't a new trend.

Stars were showing their support for the American Civil Liberties Union and their 'Stand With the ACLU' initiative.

'Saturday Night Live' cast member Kate McKinnon told the audience that playing Hillary Clinton was the greatest honor of her life.

McKinnon won outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series Sunday at the Emmy Awards for her work on the sketch comedy show, in which she frequently portrayed Clinton during the Presidential election.

Backstage reporters peppered McKinnon with questions about Clinton. McKinnon says she is a great admirer of Clinton and that she is the best role she's ever gotten to play.

McKinnon was spotted having dinner with Clinton in New York in February and called the experience surreal and wonderful and says she also ate too much.

Sterling K. Brown won best dramatic actor for his role as an African-American who is adopted into a white family in heart-tugging NBC family drama 'This Is Us.'

In a crowded limited series category, HBO's murder mystery 'Big Little Lies' came out on top, winning eight Emmys including for best series, for Nicole Kidman's abused wife character, for Laura Dern and Alexander Skarsgard, as well as for writing and directing.

Kidman said the show 'was created out of frustration because women weren't getting great roles. So now, more roles for women, please!'

Britain's Riz Ahmed beat presumed front-runner Robert De Niro to take his first Emmy for his role as a man who falls foul of the U.S. judicial system in HBO's crime limited series 'The Night Of.'

Some of the night's biggest losers included two new Netflix shows. Fan favorite 'Stranger Things' won just five of its 18 nominations, mostly in technical categories, and British royal series 'The Crown' came away with three out of 16 nominations.
Critics have accused Boris Johnson of trying to bounce Theresa May into backing his version of Brexit, while supporters say his upbeat assessment is a vital antidote to the gloom of Remainers.

Here, Political Editor JASON GROVES examines what he said  and what he meant.

Johnson's red lines

What he said: 'Before the referendum we all agreed on what leaving the EU logically must entail: leaving the customs union and the single market, leaving the penumbra of the ECJ; taking back control of borders, cash, laws. That is the programme that Theresa May set out with such clarity and that is what she and her government will deliver.'

What he means: This might appear to be a simple restatement of government policy. But Mr Johnson's decision to highlight it days before the Prime Minister makes a major speech on Brexit is designed to stop her moving an inch on his key red lines.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson pictured leaving his home near Thame in Oxfordshire to return to London after Home Secretary Amber Rudd accused Mr Johnson of 'back-seat driving' the Brexit negotiations being led by the Prime Minister

Not a penny more

What he said: 'We would not expect to pay for access to their markets any more than they would expect to pay for access to ours. Once we have settled our accounts, we will take back control of roughly 350million per week.'

What he means: This is the point on which Mr Johnson is most at odds with Mrs May. He appears to set himself against making payments during a transition out of the EU. And his claim that the UK will repatriate 350million a week leaves no scope for any ongoing payments to Brussels.

A pledge to the NHS

What he said: 'It would be a fine thing, as many of us have pointed out, if a lot of that [350million a week] went on the NHS, provided we use that cash to modernise.'

What he means: Mr Johnson has been stung by claims that he lied about increasing funding for the NHS in last year's referendum. He and other Cabinet Eurosceptics are pushing hard for an increase in NHS funding after Brexit.

Slashing red tape

What he said: 'As we take back control of our cash, and our borders, and our laws, we will of course not jettison what is good But over time we will be able to diverge from the great accumulated conglomerate, to act with regulatory freedom.'

What he means: Mrs May is expected to use her speech this week to reassure EU leaders she will not lead a regulatory 'race to the bottom' after Brexit, giving the UK a competitive advantage over the EU. But Mr Johnson is anxious Britain does not abandon the opportunity to ditch decades of red tape blamed for stifling innovation and the economy.

... And taxes

What he said: 'We should seize the opportunity of Brexit to reform our tax system. Andy Haldane, the Bank of England's chief economist, argued in 2015 that our system is currently skewed so as to discourage investment. He believes that reform could raise output by around 20 per cent.'

What he means: Mr Johnson is keen to ensure that Mrs May and Chancellor Philip Hammond do not lock Britain into following the EU's high-tax model after Brexit.

Border control

What he said: 'We will have an immigration policy that suits the UK, not slamming the door, but welcoming the talent we need, from the EU and around the world. Of course we will make sure that business gets the skills it needs, but business will no longer be able to use immigration as an excuse not to invest in the young people of this country.'

What he means: Taking back control of Britain's borders was a key Vote Leave message. Mr Johnson is serving notice to business leaders that they will have to start training British youngsters rather than relying on an endless supply of cheap migrant workers.

Don't trust Corbyn

What he said: 'We have a glorious future, but hardly any of this would be possible under the bizarre and incoherent plans of the Labour Party. It seems that [Jeremy] Corbyn has chickened out. Now it appears he wants to remain in the single market and the customs union. He would turn an opportunity into a national humiliation. It would be the worst of both worlds, with the UK turned into a vassal state  taking direction from the EU but with no power to influence the EU's decisions.'

What he means: Mr Johnson saves his fiercest criticism for Labour, pointing out that Mr Corbyn's flip-flopping on the issue has betrayed traditional Labour supporters who voted in vast numbers to leave the EU.

Proud to be British

What he said: 'When people say that they feel they have more in common with others in Europe than with people who voted leave I want to say, 'But that is part of the reason why people voted leave.' You don't have to be some tub-thumping nationalist to worry that a transnational sense of allegiance can weaken the ties between us; and you don't have to be an out-and-out nationalist to feel an immense pride in this country and what it can do.'

What he means: This is very much in line with Mrs May's attack on self-proclaimed 'citizens of the world' who end up being 'citizens of nowhere'. Both believe Britain is in danger of being undermined by a lack of patriotism in sections of society and key institutions.

Forget project fear

What he said: 'I do not underestimate the scale of the task ahead as we take back control of our destiny. All I say is that they are in grievous error, all those who write off this country, who think we don't have it in us, who think that we lack the nerve and the confidence to tackle the task ahead. They have been proved wrong before, and believe me they will be proved wrong again.'

What he means: Mr Johnson fears gloomy talk about Brexit will become a self-fulfilling prophecy unless challenged publicly. He notes that many of the 'Project Fear' claims made by Remainers turned out to be utterly baseless.
Shocking new details have emerged from The Disappearance of Natalee Holloway, an Oxygen TV show that chronicles the 18-year-old's disappearance

The best friend of Joran Van der Sloot has claimed that he helped burn the skull of Natalee Holloway in a cave.

John Ludwick's shocking claim comes to light in episode five of 'The Disappearance of Natalee Holloway,' which aired on Oxygen on Saturday.

Ludwick, a friend of Van der Sloot's, said he helped the prime suspect in her death.

Ludwick agreed to talk after an informant provided evidence that he had been paid by Van der Sloot to dig up the body of the 18-year-old, who disappeared in Aruba on May 30, 2005.

The plan, according to Ludwick, was to try to get her remains cremated.

But in order to comply with Aruba's laws about cremation, the pair, according to Lucwick, hoped to crush her bones to the point where they would not be recognizably human.

He said: 'The idea was to crush everything to the point where it wasnt recognizable as her bones or skull or anything like that.'

Scroll down for video

John Ludwick (pictured), the best friend of Joran Van der Sloot, said that he helped Van der Sloot crush up the bones of Natalee Holloway and burn her skull in a cave

Van der Sloot is in prison in Peru serving a 28-year sentence for the 2010 murder of 21-year-old business student Stephany Flores Ramirez. He has remained the prime suspect in the 2005 death of Holloway but has not been convicted of the crime

The skull was somehow burned in this process, Ludwick claims. The rest of her body was not burned.

Back in August, DailyMail.com revealed that human remains found at a site in Aruba where Holloway may have been buried belonged to a young woman of eastern European descent.

The breakthrough, made during the early stages of DNA testing, meant the Holloway family - which has eastern European heritage- may be one step closer to finding out the agonizing truth behind their daughter's disappearance.

The initial finding is still to be confirmed by further testing, which might be confirmed by October.

Holloway, from Mountain Brook, Alabama, vanished while on a trip to celebrate her high school graduation.

She was last seen by her classmates leaving a nightclub with Van der Sloot - a then 17-year-old Dutch honors student living on the tropical island. No trace of her body has ever been found.

Now her father Dave Holloway believes the discovery of human remains - the result of a tip-off investigated by his private investigator TJ Ward - could be the lead they have been waiting for this past 12 years.

Pictured are Ludwick and Van der Sloot together. Ludwick said: 'The idea was to crush everything to the point where it wasnt recognizable as her bones or skull or anything like that'

Holloway, 18, was last seen by her classmates leaving a nightclub with Van der Sloot while on a trip celebrating her high school graduation

Experts had been conducting a mitochondrial DNA test (mtDNA test) on the remains at a reputable, undisclosed lab in the US, a source said.

The mtDNA test traces a person's matrilineal or mother-line ancestry using the DNA in his or her mitochondria - a structure that sits inside the human cell.

This type of DNA is passed down by the mother unchanged, to all her children, both male and female.

If the mtDNA inside the bone fragments matches that in the saliva provided by Beth Holloway, that will be conclusive evidence that Natalee's remains have been found.

The information that led investigators to the remains came from an informant named Gabriel, a former roommate of Ludwick.

Van der Sloot - who is currently in prison in Peru serving a 28-year sentence for the 2010 murder of 21-year-old business student Stephany Flores Ramirez - has long been a suspect in Natalee's disappearance.

Gabriel told Dave Holloway that, according to Ludwick, his daughter was buried in a park near her hotel on the island - a sequence of events that marked one of the biggest breaks in the 12-year history of the case.

Ludwick apparently told Gabriel that van der Sloot disposed of Natalee's body with help from his father Paulus, a judge on the island, after the teen choked to death on her own vomit soon after she was given a drink that had been spiked with GHB. Paulus has since died.

Van der Sloot revealed his actions to Ludwick, who then repeated the information to Gabriel while the two were living together in recent years.
A 14-year-old girl has received death threats from one of her classmates' fathers over her stance on same-sex marriage.

The death threat was shared on Twitter by the girl's mother on Sunday with the caption: 'Hey Malcolm Turnbull, this is my 14 year old daughter getting a death threat from a school friend's father because she wrote a Facebook post supporting same-sex marriage'.

The screenshot shows a conversation between school children from Dubbo, in regional New South Wales, speaking out in favour of same-sex marriage.

The death threat was shared on Twitter by the girl's mother on Sunday with the caption: 'Hey Malcolm Turnbull, this is my 14 year old daughter getting a death threat from a school friend's father because she wrote a Facebook post supporting same-sex marriage'

'Kk WTF?? I ain't f****** playing no more, u now what I'm capable of b****. I am Jordan's father. Call me b4 I come n drop bombs. It's my time to shine because straight up. U want me to come with a 9mm,' he said

The conversation was infiltrated by Sydney-based father Jason Payne, who unleashed a profanity-laden rant.

'Kk WTF?? I ain't f****** playing no more, u now what I'm capable of b****. I am Jordan's father. Call me b4 I come n drop bombs. It's my time to shine because straight up. U want me to come with a 9mm,' he said.

The shocked mother shared the conversation to Twitter in an attempt to get Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's attention.

'This is the level of civilised debate you have encouraged, Malcolm Turnbull a parent feels emboldened enough to threaten a child,' she said.

'Kk WTF?? I ain't f****** playing no more, u now what I'm capable of b****. I am Jordan's father. Call me b4 I come n drop bombs. It's my time to shine because straight up. U want me to come with a 9mm,' he said

'I'd love to square dance with anyone who has commented on me in the last two days. Where are ya b****, call me for your f****** time and place and I'll show,' he said

One day after his threat was shared to Twitter, Mr Payne took to Facebook inviting his critics to 'square dance'.

'I'd love to square dance with anyone who has commented on me in the last two days. Where are ya b****, call me for your f****** time and place and I'll show,' he said.

The mother shared his post saying: 'dude who threatened my daughter has struck a conciliatory note on Facebook'.

The post garnered a massive response with viewers stunned a man threatened a young teenager.

One day after his threat was shared to Twitter, Mr Payne (pictured) took to Facebook inviting his critics to 'square dance'

'Speechless. Please tell your daughter I'm sorry and not all adults are so atrocious. I'm so glad she stands up for what she believes in,' one woman said.

'You caused this Malcolm Turnbull and history will condemn you for it,' another said.

'He has all the charm and grace of a septic wound, a blight upon society. This is what the No campaign has unleashed,' one man said.

The post, which attracted thousands of comments, was also inundated with messages urging her to report the threat to the police.

The mother said she reported the threat to Dubbo Police in New South Wales, and officers were investigating.

The Australian Federal Police also wrote online 'Using a carriage service to threaten is a Commonwealth offence but investigated by state police'.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to the man in question for comment.
Presented by softly spoken Fiona Bruce, family favourite Antiques Roadshow conveys an atmosphere of genial curiosity to its millions of Sunday evening viewers. Behind the scenes, however, it appears to be a very different story.

I can reveal that the BBC show's boss, Simon Shaw, has dramatically resigned after his boyfriend, Lloyd Farmar, 55, was rumoured to have been forced off the programme.

Shaw had drafted the interior designer in to his production team in 2004. However, Farmar left the programme two months ago after a string of complaints were allegedly made about his behaviour on set.

Antiques Roadshow boss Simon Shaw (left), has dramatically resigned after his boyfriend, Lloyd Farmar (right), 55, was rumoured to have been forced off the programme

'For many years, there's been a great deal of unhappiness there,' a source tells me. 'Lloyd was rude to people.

'A number of them have been incredibly unhappy. They made official complaints and the powers-that-be have swept the thing under the carpet. How the BBC allowed it to happen, God only knows.'

Executive producer Shaw has worked since 2003 on Antiques Roadshow, which returns for its 40th anniversary series next weekend. Cardiff-born Farmar had previously worked on the BBC makeover programme Home Front, of which Shaw was also producer.

The Antiques Roadshow source claims of the couple: 'Basically, they had a fiefdom and a power game between them. A lot of nice people have gone.'

A BBC spokesman confirms that Shaw has quit the programme, but refuses to comment on Farmar's departure or the allegations of rudeness.

'We can confirm Simon has decided to leave the show,' the spokesman says.

'Antiques Roadshow is a much-loved programme enjoyed by over five million viewers each week and we would like to thank him for his creativity and passion over the years which has made it such a success. He leaves the show in great shape.'

Shaw and Farmar could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Culture Secretary Karen Bradley forced the BBC to reveal the names of its best-paid stars, yet she appears reluctant to name her own high-flyers.

The highest is likely to be permanent secretary Sue Owen, on more than 150,000 a year, according to figures elicited by Labour MP Jim McMahon in a written question.

Some 23 nameless toilers are on more than 80,000, while a further seven have salaries over 100,000.

Ben Goldsmith's model-turned-caterer wife, Jemima Jones, 30, has given birth to their second child, a boy they've called Arlo

Socialite Jemima Goldsmith joked earlier this year that her brother Ben should 'stop breeding' after he described Britain's rapid population growth as 'madness'.

Happily, the 36-year-old financier has ignored his sister's advice and added another member to the Goldsmith clan.

Ben's model-turned-caterer wife, Jemima Jones, 30, has given birth to their second child, a boy they've called Arlo.

The son of late billionaire Sir James Goldsmith already has three children with his ex-wife, the banking heiress Kate Rothschild.

'We are very happy and very lucky to have a new baby boy,' says Ben, whose brother is Tory MP Zac Goldsmith. 'Jemima is absolutely fine and we're taking him home today.'

Jemima is pictured cradling Arlo outside the Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital, London, where Prince George and Princess Charlotte were also born.

Ben is holding their 14-month-old daughter, Eliza, in the snap, which Jemima shared online with friends.

While the Earl of Snowdon's lovechild Polly Fry decides whether to contest her father's will, which left her nothing, the mother of the royal snapper's illegitimate son, Jasper, is delighted with his inheritance of 250,000 and suggests there may be more to come.

'Things are not yet finalised,' journalist Melanie Cable-Alexander tells me. 'There are still other elements under discussion.'

Snowdon's 3.2 million estate was divided mainly between his two children by Princess Margaret and his daughter from his second marriage, to Lucy Lindsay-Hogg.

Snowdon acknowledged he was the father of Polly, now a divorced mother-of-five, only after a DNA test, but had been a constant in the life of Jasper, 19, even paying his 18,855-a-year school fees.

Melanie adds: 'Things aren't quite finished, but we are very happy with whatever he's left.'

Lady Colin Campbell is holding a Frankenstein-themed ball (tickets 80) at her Grade I-listed country house, Castle Goring, in West Sussex and once the home of Dr Frankenstein's creator Mary Shelley.

'Who will Lady C go as?' wonders one of the royal biographer's friends, unkindly. 'Forget the monster, she'd be scarier as herself.'
Sir Michael Fallon (pictured) said web giants must take down terror manuals

Web giants must take down terror manuals and stop helping jihadists inflict mass bloodshed on British soil, the Defence Secretary declared last night.

Sir Michael Fallon's comments come after the Daily Mail revealed bomb-making manuals were still easily available despite repeated calls for internet giants to remove links to the sites.

Guides of how to build a bomb similar to the device used on the London Tube on Friday were still accessible via Google last night  more than 48 hours after the Mail alerted the firm.

Speaking from Qatar, where he was agreeing a deal to sell Typhoon jets, Sir Michael called for the guides to be removed.

He said: 'They [web giants] need to do much more. We expect these technology providers to help us in the fight against terrorism and not make it easier.

'They need to be part of this fight against terrorism and that means they need to help us stop the dissemination of this evil cult that seeks to inspire terrorist atrocities in our cities.

'They also need to take down the information that allows terrorists, for example, to start constructing the sort of devices we saw on the underground so they need to play their part.'

Theresa May  who said 'enough is enough' after the London Bridge atrocity in June  will put fresh pressure on Google, Facebook and Microsoft this week, when she and French president Emmanuel Macron host an anti-extremism summit in New York.

Prime Minister Theresa May (pictured) is set to put pressure on some of the internet giants such as Google and Facebook

Speaking to US broadcaster ABC News, Mrs May said the internet firms needed 'to do more'.

Labour MP Yvette Cooper, who chairs the Commons' home affairs select committee, said: 'The internet giants have made it much harder for people to find child-abuse images online. It's time they showed the same commitment to tackling terrorism.' Google said it worked to remove links to illegal content from its search results.
It seems someone finally got some praise for their presidential attitude.

Alec Baldwin won an Emmy for his portrayal of the President during his many appearances as the commander-in-chef this season on Saturday Night Live.

Baldwin walked out on stage to accept his Emmy and started off his speech with 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'

Alec Baldwin won an Emmy for his portrayal of the President during his many appearances as the commander-in-chef this season on Saturday Night Live

Baldwin walked out on stage to accept his Emmy from Seth Meyers and James Corden and started off his speech with 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy'

The crowd erupted into laughter at the actor's perfectly timed joke as he then went on to talk about how the wig was the perfect prop for birth control.

He added: 'What we do is important; to all of you out there in motion pictures and television, don't stop doing what you're doing, the audience is counting on you.'

Baldwin beat out Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt's Titus Burgess, Baskets' Louis Anderson, Modern Family's Ty Burrell, and Veep's Tony Hale and Matt Walsh.

He added: 'What we do is important; to all of you out there in motion pictures and television, don't stop doing what you're doing, the audience is counting on you'

Baldwin beat out Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt's Titus Burgess, Baskets' Louis Anderson, Modern Family's Ty Burrell, and Veep's Tony Hale and Matt Walsh

The actor has been nominated for 18 Emmy awards and won three.

Baldwin was also nominated for Outstanding Host for Match Game, but lost out to RuPaul Charles at the Creative Arts Emmys last week.

Emmy host Stephen Colbert had already jokingly scolded Emmy voters for not giving Trump an Emmy for 'The Apprentice,' posing that maybe if he own an Emmy he wouldn't have run for President.

'I thought you guys loved morally compromised antiheroes,' he said of Trump, then called him 'Walter Whiter,' the 'Breaking Bad' character who won several Emmys for Bryan Cranston.

He also hilariously noted: 'Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote.'
A veteran national security expert predicts mass terrorist attacks on Australian public transport are an imminent threat because improvised bombs are easy to make.

Australian Strategic Policy Institute boss Peter Jennings says bombs, made in household kitchens, could easily kill lots of people.

His warning follows the arrest of a second man in connection a crude bucket bomb, which was last week placed on a packed underground commuter train at Parsons Green in London.

Scroll down for video

Australian Strategic Policy Institute boss Peter Jennings says a terrorist attack on Australian public transport is likely

A crude bucket bomb used on a London morning commuter train could easily be made in a kitchen, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute says

'These type of spectacular mass casualty attacks will continue in Europe, in the UK and in mainland Europe in particular,' he told Sky News Australia on Monday.

'But we shouldn't rule out the possibility that they can happen here because these are devices which someone can make, with a bit of practice, in their kitchen.

'The risk of this type of attack on mass transit or in places of mass gatherings is something we've got to be really alive to.'

Mr Jennings, who advised former prime minister John Howard on national security, is sounding the alarm following the arrests of two men, aged 18 and 21 over that attack which injured 30 people in a morning commuter train.

He says the attack could have been much worse.

A terrorist attack on a train, similar to what occurred in London last week (injured woman from Parsons Green underground station attack pictured) could happen in Australia

An Australian security experts says the Parsons Green attack could have been much worse

'It could have been utterly disastrous had the explosive worked but the individual was working with very volatile chemicals which are hard to control in terms of their explosive effect,' Mr Jennings said.

Syrian refugee Yahya Faroukh, 21, was arrested on Sunday outside a chicken shop at Hounslow, near Heathrow Airport.

He was a foster child cared for by Penelope and Ronald Jones, who were awarded an MBE from the Queen in 2009 for serving families and children.

Police have raided their property at Surrey, which is believed to have also been home to the first suspect to be arrested, an 18-year-old boy, who was tracked to departure hall at the Port of Dover at the weekend.
A 25-year-old man has been charged with murder after a woman's body was found in Sydney's Northern Beaches.

Lanell Latta, 50, was found dead at her rental property on Marine Parade near Avalon Beach at 10.45am, NSW police said.

The man was found soon after in nearby Ruskin Rowe, and was taken to Manly Police station, where he was charged with murder and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He has been refused bail and will appear before Manly Local Court on Tuesday.

Ms Latta had been renting the home from Australian supermodel Gemma Ward, who expressed her shock to The Daily Telegraph.

'It's heartbreaking news. My heart goes out to the family and all involved in this tragedy,' she said.

Scroll down for video

Lanell Latta, 50, was found stabbed to death in her rented home on Sydney's northern beaches

Australian supermodel Gemma Ward and her husband David Letts rented out the two-bedroom beach home since buying it last year for $1.6 million

Ms Ward bought the two-bedroom beach property with her husband David Letts in 2016 for $1.6 million. The property was leased to the victim.

Mr Letts, who knew one of Ms Latta's sons, also expressed his heartbreak at the news.

'She was such a sweet woman, it's just a tragedy,' he said.

Shortly after police arrived at the Sydney home on Monday, a man who is believed to be the victim's son was arrested on nearby Ruskin Rowe, according to The Daily Telegraph.

He was taken to Manly Police Station for questioning but it is not believed charges have been laid yet.

Ms Latta, 50, is believed to have been stabbed to death by her own son, who was arrested in a nearby suburb on Monday

A family member of Ms Latta breaks down after the mother's body was discovered

The man, in his 20s, was reportedly living in the garage on the property.

Initial reports allege the woman was stabbed to death, according to 7News.

Georgia Westwood, who lived with her family next door to Ms Latta, said she could hear screaming from her balcony today.

'I saw a man running down the road but I didn't really think anything of it,' she told Nine News.

Ms Latta's death is being investigated. Officers have cordoned off the home and are still at the scene.

A report will be prepared for the coroner, officers confirmed.

Family members of the victim were overcome with emotion as they arrived at the home following the incident.

A man in his 20s, who is believed to be the woman's son, was arrested shortly after and is being interviewed by officers (pictured)

Officers have cordoned off the home and are still at the scene (pictured)

It is believed the victim was renting the two-bedroom house from Ms Ward

The two-bedroom house on Marine Parade belongs to model Gemma Ward

Girls dressed in what appear to be school uniform are seen speaking with police outside the crime scene

Police were seen consoling a young woman and she held her hands to her face.

A man in a grey hoodie also appeared to be crying as he sat on the curb.

Friends paid tribute to Ms Latta on Facebook, one writing: 'So sad, I miss you already beautiful will never forget your smile'.

Ms Ward and her husband David Letts have been renting out the two-bedroom beach home since buying it last year for $1.6 million.

It was advertised for a six-month lease at $750 per week from October, according to 9News.

The couple have two children - a daughter Naia, 3, and seven-month-old son Jett.

Forensic investigators also attended the scene in North Avalon on Monday

A man is pictured holding his head in his hands as he sits on the curb in front of the home

A report will be prepared for the coroner, officers confirmed

Police were seen consoling a young woman and she held her hands to her face

Officers were seen flooding the quiet suburban street after Lanell was stabbed to death

The Perth-born supermodel (pictured), who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s

Ms Ward and her husband David Letts have been renting out the two-bedroom beach home

Ms Ward and her husband reportedly bought the home last year for $1.6 million

Ms Ward, 29, made her Australian Fashion Week debut at just age 15 in 2003.

The Perth-born supermodel, who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s.

She was ranked as the world's 10th highest earning model by Forbes in 2007 before deciding to step away from the limelight.

In 2014, Ms Ward returned to the runway at the Spring/Summer 2015 show during Milan Fashion Week.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers.

A group of police are pictured talking outside the Northern Beaches home

More officers were seen putting on and taking off forensic suits as they entered and left the home

The Marine Parade home was advertised for a six-month lease at $750 per week from October

The woman's death is being investigated. Officers have cordoned off the home (inside pictured) and are still at the scene
Donald Glover sarcastically thanked President Donald Trump at the Emmys during his acceptance speech for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy.

Earlier Sunday, the Atlanta star became the first African-American to win an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series.

During his speech for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy, he said: 'I want to thank Trump for making black people number one on the most oppressed list. He's the reason I am probably up here.'

Donald Glover accepted Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Atlanta while jokingly saying Trump was the reason he was up on the stage

Glover won two Emmys for his FX show Atlanta, for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series andLead Actor in a Comedy Series

He beat out Black-ish star Anthony Anderson, Master of None star Aziz Ansari, Baskets star Zach Galifianakis, Shameless star William H. Macy and Transparent star Jeffrey Tambor.

Glover was not the only African-American winner to make history at the Emmys Sunday evening with his comedy directing win.

Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win best writing for a comedy series for the hit Netflix show Master of None.

Glover's comments took a jab at the president's track record on race.

Last month, President Trump said there were bad people on 'both sides' between neo-Nazis at a riot in Charlottesville and counter protesters.

Lena Waithe (pictured with Aziz Ansari) became the first black woman to win best writing for a comedy series for the hit Netflix show Master of None

Trump reiterated the comments last week, saying: 'You've got some very bad people on the other side also,' in reference to people protesting the neo-Nazis.

Last week, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders called for ESPN host Jemele Hill, a black woman, to be fired for calling the president a white supremacist on Twitter.

In addition to his comments, the president has also been accused of racism for several of his appointees including ex chief strategist and senior counselor Steve Bannon and Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

Bannon is the executive chairman of Breitbart News, a notoriously alt-right website and in the eighties Sessions was deemed too racially biased to be a federal district court judge in Alabama.
Four South American men accused of taking part in a string of jewellery heists as part of an international crime syndicate will be hauled before a Sydney court as police hunt for more offenders.

The men - aged 23, 30, 43 and 52 - are due to front Liverpool Local Court on Monday over their alleged roles in more than 17 robberies across Sydney in the past two months.

'The group use planned distraction techniques to effect the stealing, including: telling the victims they have a flat tyre, deliberately bumping into the victims and spilling drinks on them, engaging their victims in conversation or asking for directions,' Detective Superintendent Murray Chapman told reporters on Monday.

Four Chilean men are accused of taking part in a string of jewellery heists as part of an international crime syndicate (stock image)

The men, aged 23, 30, 43 and 52, reportedly robbed $600,000 worth of cash and jewels (stock image)

The syndicate coordinated their operation using earpieces and mobile phones, as well as wearing hats and glasses to disguise their identities, Detective Chapman said.

Police say the band of thieves have netted $600,000 in cash and jewels.

The four alleged members of the syndicate were arrested at Sydney airport on Saturday - two of them pulled off a plane bound for Santiago, Chile at the last minute.

Investigators have released security footage as they search for more offenders.

The men - aged 23, 30, 43 and 52 - were due to front Liverpool Local Court on Monday

The thieves, allegedly from Chile and Colombia, are in Australia on tourist or student visas, who distracted their many victims while other members robbed them during August and September.

Gang members staked out banks and jewellery stores to find victims carrying cash and valuables and often targeted the elderly.

Australian Associated Press understands the syndicate also hit a large jewellery fair in Sydney where they were caught on camera before fleeing with a large amount of jewellery.

Police are urging the public to remain vigilant, especially those who have just completed banking transactions or are in possession of cash or jewellery.
The UK has overtaken France in the manufacturing rankings as the weak pound boosts exports.

Our factories produce 184billion of goods a year  the eighth highest in the world.

That is up from ninth 12 months earlier, overtaking France which produces 179billion of goods.

Our factories produce 184billion of goods a year  the eighth highest in the world. Pictured is an employee at BAE Systems in Flintshire

China remains the worlds largest industrial nation followed by the US, according to United Nations figures analysed by manufacturing group EEF.

Paul Brooks, of Santander Corporate and Commercial, said: With strong manufacturing figures reported from across the country, it is crucial that we continue to support manufacturers in all regions of the UK. Manufacturing output is driven by food and drink, accounting for 16 per cent, then chemicals and pharmaceuticals, and transport  both 14 per cent.

The North West was the biggest regional powerhouse, producing more than 24billion of goods a year.

It comes as figures show the volume of goods sold overseas by UK manufacturers rose by 9 per cent in a year.

EEF said earlier this month that more companies are seeing output and orders increase than at any time since 1995 as exports go from strength to strength.

Whisky, salmon and beer helped UK food exports reach a record 10.2billion during the first half of the year.
EasyJet is to fit filters to its cabin air systems to stop toxic fumes reaching passengers, cabin crew and pilots.

It is the first time the aviation industry has admitted health concerns about so-called aerotoxic syndrome.

The condition is feared to be responsible for the deaths of pilots and crew and hundreds of incidents in which pilots have fallen ill, sometimes at the controls.

EasyJet said health concerns had led it to work with a commercial supplier, Pall Aerospace, to develop and design a new cabin air filtration system for testing on its aircraft next year.

Tristan Loraine, a former British Airways captain who claims toxic cabin air forced him from his job, said: This is the first public acknowledgment by an airline of a problem which this industry, including my own airline, has spent decades denying. I congratulate easyJet for having the vision and courage which no other airline had.

Alex Flynn, of the Unite union, which represents cabin crew, told The Sunday Times the easyJet move was highly significant and welcome. He said Unite was involved in about 100 UK civil court actions for death and injury allegedly caused by cabin air, a far higher number than previously reported.

During high-altitude flight the atmosphere is too thin to breathe so compressed air, or bleed air, is drawn from the planes engines and directed into the passenger cabin and cockpit. It is cooled but not filtered.

Faults in engine seals can contaminate it with engine oil, hydraulic fluids and lubricants. Some air is then recirculated through a filter, but a typical aircraft cabin consists of half recirculated filtered air and half unfiltered bleed air. The new total filtration system being tested by easyJet will filter the bleed air as well. It also includes a contamination detector.

EasyJet said health concerns had led it to work with a commercial supplier, Pall Aerospace, to develop and design a new cabin air filtration system for testing on its aircraft next year

EasyJet said it was not taking a position on aerotoxic syndrome, which remains an area of scientific uncertainty.

Last October, crew members on a BA flight from San Francisco to London were left spaced out and vomiting after what the captain described as toxic fumes leaked into the cabin.

Fatalities linked to cabin fumes include Matt Bass, a BA flight attendant who died in 2014. Toxic organophosphates  found in substances such as jet engine oil  were discovered in his body, an inquest heard last year. The hearing will resume shortly.
The parents of a Georgia Tech student who was shot dead by campus cops late Saturday night say their child didn't have to die.

They say Scout Schultz, 21, who identified as gender non-binary, wouldn't have died if police had used de-escalating tactics and non-lethal measures according to 11 Alive.

They have hired trial attorney L Chris Stewart to represent them ahead of the investigation into Schultz's death, which came after they were filmed walking toward police - who issued several warnings to drop what the cops believed was a knife.

Footage of the tense encounter shows the student walking closer and closer to the police officers and shouting 'Shoot me!'

'Nobody wants to hurt you,' one of the cops can be heard saying before a shot rings out and Schultz crumples to the ground, screaming out in pain.

Scout Schultz, 21, was seen walking toward police on Saturday before being shot dead. Schultz's parents are asking why non-lethal or de-escalation tactics weren't used

Stewart will hold a press meeting Monday, in which he is expected to question whether the officers involved had training for dealing with mentally ill students.

It's unclear what mental illness Schultz may have suffered from.

Schultz's father has claimed that his child - who preferred to be referred to as 'they' and 'them' rather than gendered pronouns - had been holding a 'tiny knife'.

None of the police officers involved in the shooting have been identified, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is currently looking into the shooting.

According to a press release from the bureau, the Georgia Tech campus police received a 911 call of a 'person with a knife and a gun' at 11.17pm Saturday night.

The release says Schultz was 'not cooperative and would not comply with the officers commands.

'Schultz continued to advance on the officers with a knife... Subsequently, one officer fired striking Schultz.'

The student was seenon camera walking toward the police officers and shouting 'shoot me.' 'Nobody wants to hurt you,' one of the cops can be heard saying before a shot was fired

The release says Schultz was 'not cooperative and would not comply with the officers'. The student's dad said Schultz had only been carrying a 'tiny' knife

The victim's parents are questioning why police used deadly force.

Schultz's mother Lynn told the New York Daily News Schultz was a 'nonconformist and very, very bright.'

She said Schultz had a 'lot of empathy for other people.'

At Georgia Tech, Schultz was president of the school's Pride Alliance, which is a student organization for LGBTQ students and allies.

The Pride Alliance released a statement that described Schultz as 'the driving force' behind the group thanks to their 'hard work and dedication'.

'We love you Scout and we will continue to push for change,' the statement concluded.

Schultz preferred 'they' and 'them' gender pronouns and identified as bisexual, non-binary and intersex, their mother Lynne said

The student from Lilburn, Georgia, was studying engineering and had plans to go to grad school and eventually have a career in making biomedical devices.

Schultz, born male, identified as bisexual, non-binary and intersex, Lynne said.

Non-binary means the individual does not identify as male or female.

Their father, Bill, wrote about the shooting on Facebook and said Schultz had a 'tiny knife.'

'[Police] didn't have to shoot [Scout] in the heart, but that's what they did,' he wrote.

The distraught parents are now considering legal options.

The Pride Alliance released a statement Sunday, calling Schultz a 'driving force' in the organization.

'Scout always reminded us to think critically about the intersection of identities and how a multitude of factors play into one's experience on Tech's campus and beyond,' the group said.

Saturday night's incident caused an emergency alert from Georgia Tech's Office of Emergency Preparedness - and students were urged to seek shelter.
A teenage boy has been winched to safety by rescuers after he broke his leg while climbing rocks in North Bondi, Sydney.

The boy reportedly broke his leg while climbing the coastal cliffs with friends on Monday.

Police rescue and paramedics were called to the scene.

A helicopter was also deployed to the cliffs to help evacuate the boys and winch them to safety.

More to come.

A teenage boy has been winched to safety by rescuers after he broke his leg while climbing on rocks in North Bondi, Sydney

The boy reportedly broke his leg while climbing the coastal rocks with friends
Fadi Ibrahim has been granted $2.2 million bail with conditions including that he lives under house arrest at his Dover Heights home.

Ibrahim's mother Wahiba had offered $1.5 million secured by her western Sydney home.

Magistrate Les Mabbutt ordered that Ibrahim live under house arrest, only leaving his home for court appearances, legal appointments and medical emergencies.

He is allowed one mobile phone, the number of which has to be given to police.

Mr Mabbutt noted Ibrahim was not charged with drug offences and the charges he did face could take up to two years to be heard in court.

Ibrahim is not to approach witnesses or any co-accused.

Fadi Ibrahim will apply for bail hours after being extradited to Australia from Dubai

Sam Ibrahim was one of four men facing court on Monday for their alleged involvement in an internationl drug-smuggling syndicate

Fadi was 'not a passive lender but an active investor' helping his brother Michael illegally import tobacco into Australia, a court has heard.

Fadi appeared via video link in Central Local Court on Monday facing two money laundering charges.

A day after his extradition from Dubai the 43-year-old listened as Commonwealth Crown prosecutor Matthew Kalyk outlined the case against him.

'This applicant is not a fool,' Mr Kalyk said.

Fadi is accused of two money laundering offences: one of providing $800,000 towards illegally importing tobacco and one of receiving $1.6 million from the proceeds of that operation.

Mr Kalyk said Michael Ibrahim had been recorded stating Fadi had doubled his money from the alleged investment.

Michael was allegedly recorded on three occasions saying he had borrowed money from Fadi, who in turn had drawn down $1 million on his home loan.

Mr Kalyk said Fadi was 'not a passive lender but an active investor' in Michael's activities.

Friends and supporters arrive at Central Local Court in Sydney with Sam and Fadi Ibrahim, Koder Jomaa and Mustapha Dib facing charges for alleged roles in international drug-smuggling syndicate

Michael was not required to appear when drug charges against him were mentioned in the same court.

The 39-year-old is charged with conspiring to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy and attempting to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

In opposing bail for Fadi, Mr Kalyk said there was a risk the company director would fail to appear at future court dates or would interfere with witnesses or evidence.

His criminal history included an entry for intending to influence a witness and the charges he faced carried maximum penalties of 20 and 25 years.

Mr Kalyk said Fadi had criminal associations, access to large sums of money and the Crown case against him was strong.

His wife Shayda would not be a suitable person to supervise him on bail because she had attempted to leave the jurisdiction in 2010 despite representations from Fadi that she would surrender herself.

Stephen Zahr, lawyer for Koder Jomaa, arrives at court after the 47-year-old was arrested during dramatic raids in Dubai

Mustafa Dib, who was extradited from Dubai with the Ibrahims and Koder Jomaa, was not required to appear when drug charges against him were mentioned.

The 34-year-old is accused of attempting to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

He is also accused of conspiring with Michael Ibrahim, Nejmi Saki, Hakan Arif, Hassan Fakhreddine, Ahmad Ahmad and others to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

Jomaa, 47, is accused of attempting to import 200 kilograms of ecstasy and conspiring to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

Michael Ibrahim, Dib and Jomaa did not apply for bail and it was formally refused.

Friends and supporters of the Ibrahims, Jomaa and Dib conceal their identities as they walk inside the courthouse

Outside court, Mr Jomaa's lawyer Steven Zahr said his client would fight the charges, and was 'doing well'.

'He's back in Australia and ready to deal with this matter,' Mr Zahr said. 'He's doing wellno complaints'.'

Michael and Fadi Ibrahim arrived back in Sydney on Sunday night to face charges relating to their roles in an alleged drug and tobacco smuggling syndicate.

The cuffed brothers were led into custody by Australian Federal Police officers with their wrists and waists heavily shackled.

The brothers were arrested on the street in Dubai on August 8; Michael could face life in jail for his alleged role in an $810 million drug ring spanning across Sydney, the Netherlands and Dubai.

The haul, which included 1.8 tonnes of MDMA, was seized by authorities in the Netherlands in July.
A graduate of a prestigious naval academy shot his 22-year-old girlfriend dead and then killed himself, investigators believe.

The bodies of Ohio State psychology student Heather Campbell and Kyle Lafferty, 25, were found in an apartment in the Taylor House complex in Columbus at 2:30pm on Sunday.

'It appears that the male murdered the female and then turned a firearm on himself,' Columbus police Sgt. Dave Sicilian told NBC 4.

'[This was] a domestic related situation that resulted in these deaths.'

Scroll down for video

Dead: The bodies of Heather Campbell, 22, and Kyle Lafferty, 25 (both pictured left), were found on Sunday. Cops say Lafferty, a Merchant Marine Officer, shot her, then himself

Courtesy WBNS-TV

One of Campbell's friends had made the grim discovery when she went to check on her friend.

'She's the one who actually found them and then she notified us and patrol officers came out to the scene and we started our investigation from there,' Sicilian said.

He added that someone in an adjoining apartment had heard something that sounded like an argument followed by a possible gunshot.

Campbell had worked as a Nuclear Engineer Mate in the Navy since August 2016, according to her Facebook page.

On July 7 she posted up a photograph of herself with Lafferty, along with four heart emojis.

Lafferty's Facebook page features no photos of the pair together, but does have a number of him in his uniform, with friends and family.

He graduated the US Merchant Marine Academy, a prestigious naval engineering school, in June 2015 after signing up in 2013.

Since then, the Merchant Marine Officer had worked at Kirby Offshore Marine in New Jersey, according to his Facebook page.

Found: Campbell was a nuclear engineer mate in the Navy, according to her Facebook page. Her neighbors had heard arguing and a gunshot before their bodies were found

Neighbor Mwanza Wamulumba said the discovery of the two bodies was 'nuts... completely nuts.'

'That's really, that's even sad because they're so young and they have so much so much more life to live so yeah that's terrible to hear,' Wamulumba said.

After news of the death emerged, Ohio State University released a statement.

'We are heartbroken to learn about this tragedy. Heather Campbell was a psychology major from Strongsville,' they wrote.

'Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

'Counseling is available for those students in our community who need support by calling (614) 292-5766.'
The pregnant wife of Kevin Hart made her first public appearance following the comedian's public apology to her and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment.'

Eniko Hart, 33, looked very solemn but casual as she made her way to an animal Hospital with the couples Doberman Pinscher, Roxy, in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Kevin Hart posted a video to Instagram on Saturday in which he apologized to wife Eniko Parrish and said he wasn't perfect and had recently made poor decisions.

It has also been revealed that part of the sex tape being investigated by the FBI includes the comedian talking about how he would never cheat on his wife.

In the clip from an earlier interview, Hart says: 'I got a good one. I can't play any games... Why risk it? What am I going to throw it all away for?'

Scroll down for video

Eniko Hart, 33, looked very solemn but casual as she made her way to an animal Hospital with the couples Doberman Pinscher, Roxy, in Los Angeles on Sunday

Wearing an army fatigue tracksuit and comfortable black sneakers, Eniko looked intent on getting to her location

Her pregnant belly was perfectly tucked behind a white t-shirt as she wore little to no makeup and had her sleek black tresses tied up in a bun

What Kevin Hart said about cheating... 'I got a good one. I can't play any games... I call her my rib and I don't know if people know what that means - it's from the Bible. A rib is something you can't live without. 'You can always try to find something that's better - a bigger a**, some breasts but that never ends so when you do find something stimulates you on a physical and mental and emotional level at this age, what else do you need? 'I got a good one. A logical, thinking woman... why risk it? What am I going to throw it all away for? It's not worth it at all, man.' Advertisement

He said there were 'no excuses' but added that someone was trying to seek financial gain over his mistakes, and he'd rather confess than let that happen.

Wearing an army fatigue tracksuit and comfortable black sneakers, Eniko looked intent on getting to her location.

Her pregnant belly was perfectly tucked behind a white t-shirt as she wore little to no makeup and had her sleek black tresses tied up in a bun.

Eniko still had her wedding ring on and had a large black bag on her shoulder as she made her way to the animal hospital.

She wore simple earrings to tie together a very casual and homely looking outfit.

Kevin Hart's alleged extortionist has also spoken out to call the star a liar as the FBI investigate the attempt at a multi-million dollar demand.

She wore simple earrings to tie together a very casual and homely looking outfit

It was her first public appearance following the comedian's public apology to her and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment'

Eniko still had her wedding ring on and had a large black bag on her shoulder as she made her way to the animal hospital

The mystery person said: 'The real reason Kevin Hart orchestrated the Texas Hurricane Relief Fund, this so-called good deed was done to get ahead as he knew this damaging footage was one click away from being exposed as the liar and cheater he is.

The FBI is investigating a multi-million dollar extortion attempt on Kevin Hart after he publicly apologized to his family in an Instagram video on Saturday for a 'bad error in judgment'

'Kevin Hart was privy to me wanting to expose him as I have made countless attempts to expose this information to various blogs, in an attempt to also get paid.'

The FBI is investigating the multi-million dollar extortion attempt on Kevin Hart after he publicly apologized to his pregnant wife and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment.'

Law enforcement officials told TMZ that an anonymous person contacted Hart saying they had a video of the comedian and a woman in a sexually provocative situation.

Sources have told TMZ that the FBI knows who the woman is that interacted with Kevin and they believe that she is the one making the demands.

But they also believe that the video was captured by someone who got a hold of the iPhone that the encounter was captured on.

Sources have also told TMZ that Hart's hurricane relief had nothing to do with the extortion attempt, contrary to claims made by the extortionist.

The 38-year-old posted a video to Instagram on Saturday in which he apologized to wife Eniko Parrish and said he wasn't perfect and had recently made poor decisions

Risky business? Hart was snapped in July in a Lexus with a woman local media identified as singer Monique 'Momo' Gonzalez
Coles supermarkets have issued a product recall for Hans brand Spanish Chorizo sausages over E.coli contamination fears.

Coles supermarkets have issued a product recall for Hans brand Spanish Chorizo sausages over E.coli contamination fears

The sausages, sold in 250g vacuum packed packages with the expiration of 1 December 2017, have been recalled in New South Wales and Queensland.

In a statement issues by Hans, the manufacturer said they are working with the 'relevant authorities'.

'Hans Smallgoods is conducting a recall of the above Hans Branded product as a precautionary health measure due to potential microbial (E.coli) contamination,' the company said.

'Customers should not consume the product. Any consumers concerned for their health should seek medical advice.'

The sausages, sold in 250g vacuum packed packages with the expiration of 1 December 2017, have been recalled in New South Wales and Queensland

What is E.coli? Escheria coli (E.coli) is a bacterium that lives in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. Most E.coli are harmless, however some E.coli can cause illness. The types of E.coli that can cause diarrhea can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with animals or persons. Signs and symptoms of infection include bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advertisement

'This recall is being undertaken to ensure the safety of our customers as part of our ongoing commitment to maintain the highest standards of safety and quality at all times.'

'We apologise for any inconvenience.'

The company said that the product recall only applied to the Spanish chorizo and no other smallgoods products from the brand had been impacted by the contamination scare.

Customers who may have purchased the sausages can return products to the point of purchase for an immediate cash refund.

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand said customers with any concerns may contact Hans on 1800 060 909.
This is the moment two 'Yes' campaigners rip down 'No' case signs on a main road at night.

Teaching student Robert Assaf, 21, and his 25-year-old girlfriend recorded two women as they aggressively tore down posters from a metal fence at Gladesville, in Sydney's north.

The posters were put up on a construction site with the permission of the owner.

'They seemed very angry. We were very worried for our safety,' Mr Assaf told Daily Mail Australia on Monday.

Scroll down for video

This 'Yes' supporter was filmed ripping down 'It's OK to say No' posters at Gladesville in Sydney

'We were on a main road. I was scared they were going to push me or my girlfriend on to the road.'

The confrontation on Victoria Road started shortly after 6.30pm on Saturday.

Mr Assaf and his girlfriend had already dealt with a man and a woman tearing down their posters.

After having them returned, they re-attached the 30 signs and a four-metre banner, all with the slogan, 'It's OK to say No.'

That's when the two women proceeded to tear down their signs, with Mr Assaf, a local resident, filming the encounter on his smartphone.

This pro-gay marriage supporter was filmed carrying away several of the signs on a main road

The first woman, with dyed blonde hair, strikes first holding a white 'It's OK to say no' banner before taking down a purple 'No' sign.

Another woman with short, cropped dark hair strikes next, tearing another two posters from the fence and turning them upside down.

They then walk down the footpath carrying the posters in both their hands.

Robert Assaf feared for his safety as the women tore down his 'No' campaign posters

Mr Assaf claimed he had earlier copped abuse from passing drivers as he put up the 'No' posters with his girlfriend.

'We were being heckled as we were doing it. People were driving by, calling us c-word or F-U,' he said.

'Other people were saying, 'Good on you.' There was a bit of mixed reaction.'

The women walked away with the 30 signs and the four-metre banner and haven't returned the property.

The two women walked away with the 'It's OK to say No' signs and refused to return them

The heated altercation comes despite Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who supports homosexual marriage, calling for a respectful campaign.

The lead-up to the postal survey has been plagued with acts of aggression, with a petition to have northern Sydney doctor Pansy Lai deregistered for appearing in a 'No' case ad.

That campaign was dropped following the public outcry.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics is sending out ballots to households, with deputy statistician Jonathan Palmer urging voters to contact them if forms haven't arrived by September 25.

Voters will have until November 7 to return them.
Courtney Siverling wrote on Facebook that she was praying for the woman who attacked her with acid to be healed from her mental illness

Hours after a shocking acid assault on four American college students in Marseille, one of the victims showed extraordinary strength and compassion by taking to Facebook to say she is praying for her attacker.

Boston College student Courtney Siverling, 20, posted on Sunday that she and her friends are all safe and said she did not sustain any injuries. Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman, Michelle Krug and Kelsey Kosten were all named by the university.

Savannah Freitas, her friend who also attends Antioch Community Church in Brighton, told DailyMail.com the three women are safe and have been helped by the U.S. consulate and the French police.

The 18-year-old said over Facebook messenger: 'Courtney did not receive any injuries but I did hear that the three others did but are expected to heal completely. However I am mostly struck by Courtney's incredible faith throughout this whole event.'

'As obviously traumatic as it must have been, she made it known to me personally as well as publicly on her Facebook that she is actively praying for the attacker to be healed of her mental illness.

Courtney Siverling posted on Facebook saying she was praying for the woman who attacked her and her friends

Charlotte Kaufman (left) and Kelsey Kosten (right) were two of the Boston College students attacked with acid in the French city of Marseille on Sunday

Michelle Krug was also attacked in Marsielle on Sunday. The 41-year-old attacker used a cleaning substance containing hydrochloric acid that she is thought to have picked up from a local DIY store

'She so strongly believes that salvation and forgiveness comes from Jesus Christ alone and is praying that she would receive that. She is so very trusting in Lord to keep her safe and I know that everyone is so inspired by her faith in God and willingness to keep her attacker in her prayers.'

Siverling posted on Facebook Sunday that she and her friends are all safe and said she did not sustain any injuries.

She wrote: 'Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out to see if I'm ok and/or has been praying for us. I did not receive any injuries from the attack in Marseille this morning and we are all safe. The French police and the U.S. Consulate have been wonderful and we are so thankful for that.

'I pray that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of Jesus and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him.

'"This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him." Psalm 91:2.'

The four students were treated at a Marseille hospital but released mid-afternoon. The worst injured had suffered impaired vision.

Savannah Freitas, 18, told DailyMail.com she was struck by her friend Courtney's faith through the accident

The horrifying attack took place shortly after 11am at the Gare de Marseille-Saint-Charles station (file image)

Two were hit in the face, while the other two received splashes of the substance on their legs.

The women's parents and other family members were being kept in touch with developments by the US Embassy in Paris and French officials in Marseille.

Ms Kaufman, Ms Krug and Ms Siverling are all enrolled in Boston College's Paris program, while Ms Kosten is a student at the Copenhagen Business School.

A woman with 'deep psychological problems' was in custody in the French city of Marseille on Sunday after spraying four American students with acid.

The attack took place shortly after 11am on Sunday at the St Charles station, where the four women were preparing to board a train.

All were Boston College juniors in their early 20s  three of them on a study abroad program in the French capital, and the fourth based in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The 41-year-old attacker used a cleaning substance containing hydrochloric acid that she is thought to have picked up from a local DIY store.

Four emergency services vehicles arrived at the station, which was packed on a Sunday morning at the tail-end of the holiday season.

After carrying out the assault, the women displayed photos of her own burns, allegedly picked up in an earlier incident.

'She displayed clear signs of suffering from deep psychological problems,' said a source close to the case, who added that no slogans were shouted out during the attack, and it was not thought to be terrorism related.

Four emergency services vehicles arrived at the station (file image), which was packed on a Sunday morning at the tail-end of the holiday season

The director of the Boston College's Office of International Programs, Nick Gozik, said the women have been released from the hospital and 'it appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances'.

French prosecutors are not investigating the acid attack as an act of terror.

Paris remains under a State of Emergency following a string of terrorist attacks carried out by Islamic State and Al-Qaeda operatives over the past two years.

Security at transport hubs including rail stations has been massively stepped up because of threats by the groups to target them.

Corrosive substances are increasingly being used as weapons in Europe, including in Britain, where there were 450 such attacks in London alone in the last year.

Acid-based products are easy to purchase, and can be paid for in cash, so there is no trace of who bought them.
A man is recovering after being shot in the face with an arrow during an altercation at Toowoomba, west of Brisbane.

Police said the man used a compound bow to shoot the 30-year-old victim at about 1am on Sunday, causing a deep laceration that required medical attention.

A 36-year-old man will appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Monday charged with acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm and 10 drugs charges.

A man, 30, is recovering after being shot in the face with an arrow during an altercation at Toowoomba, west of Brisbane about 1am on Sunday

A 36-year-old man will appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court (pictured) on Monday to face charges over the attack, as well as 10 drug charges

The Darling Heights resident was hit with the arrow on the right side of his face during an argument with his attacker.

He will undergo surgery on his facial injuries on Tuesday.

The incident occurred at the home of the victim, where the offender allegedly found the weapon and shot it when the argument continued, according to Toowoomba Criminal Investigation Branch Acting Senior Sergeant Brian Collins.

The offender used a compound bow (stock picture used above) to shoot the 30-year-old victim, causing deep lacerations to his face

The incident occurred at the home of the victim in Darling Heights where the offender allegedly found the weapon and shot it when the argument continued

Act. Snr Sgt Collins alleged the enemies were previously known to each other.

Police are expected to object to any bail application from the offender.

It's understood detectives have recovered the weapon they believe was used in the attack.
The lavish lifestyle of a charity boss, who retired due to 'health reasons', have been revealed after an internal audit was launched to investigate his hefty expenses.

Don Rowe was president of the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) for more than a decade, but retired in 2014 because of his ailing condition.

However, an audit into Mr Rowe found the former veteran's charity boss had racked up $475,000 in costs on his company credit card between January 2009 and December 2014, Fairfax reports.

Included in the near half million in expenses were $213,000 in withdrawals and a 'presidential suite' reservation at a four-star hotel for Mr Rowe and his son to use for as long as seven years.

The former president said he believed he could use the room 'for my use as I saw fit' and said he was not aware that he was acting inappropriately allowing his son to live in the room

Mr Rowe says he was told by RSL administration a 'presidential suite' was available to him to use at the Hyde Park Inn in Sydney's CBD

The NSW Government investigated Mr Rowe over the audit's claims that Mr Rowe had taken advantage of his situation as the boss of the RSL and inappropriately used the charity's money for the benefit of himself and his family.

Mr Rowe says he was told by RSL administration a 'presidential suite' was available to him to use at the Hyde Park Inn in Sydney's CBD.

The rooms cost up to $500 per night, and despite the room intended to be used by Mr Rowe working on behalf of the company, his son lived in the apartment from 2007 until a month before his father's resignation in 2014.

The former president said he believed he could use the room 'for my use as I saw fit' and said he was not aware that he was acting inappropriately allowing his son to live in the room.

'It didn't mean that you could allow members of your family to use it ... as [a] home away from home ... did you understand that at the time?' Anthony Cheshire, working on behalf of the council, asked Mr Rowe.

'No, I didn't,' he replied.

Mr Rowe also claims he was ignorant to the fact he was misusing the company credit card.

'When I was given the credit card, 'This is the card for you to use'. That's all he said unfortunately,' he explained.

Company policy dictates employees using a company credit card can only charge up to $50 for dinners when acting on behalf of the RSL, however Mr Rowe admitted to using it to pay for expensive meals at Mezzaro restaurant in Sydney (pictured)

Don Rowe (right) was president of the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) for more than a decade, but retired in 2014 because of his ailing condition

What the $475,000 was spent on Around $213,000 of cash withdrawals Phone bill accounts of about $38,000 A dozen flights for family members Meals at Mazzaro Restaurant, where duck breast with beetroot ganache goes for $36 Accommodation at Sydney's Hyde Park Inn, where two-bedroom apartments cost upwards of $300 per night Christmas shopping of $568.96 'Living expenses' including toothpaste, meals and shoes Paying off a house mortgage using a $20,000 annual car allowance Source: AAP Advertisement

Company policy dictates employees using a company credit card can only charge up to $50 for dinners when acting on behalf of the RSL, however Mr Rowe admittedly used the charity's money to pay for expensive meals for him and his family at the opulent Mezzaro restaurant in Sydney.

'Regrettably on occasion I did (pay for his family's meals),' Mr Rowe said.

'You were using the credit card to pay all your expenses of daily living?' Mr Cheshire asked.

'Yes,' Mr Rowe said.

He also used company money to help pay off the $400,000 mortgage of his Armidale despite receiving $1,000 per week in pension from the RSL.

He admitted to using the credit card to support his 'day-to-day' costs while in Sydney and denied that any expenses were ever rejected.

He admitted to using the credit card to support his 'day-to-day' costs while in Sydney and denied that any expenses were ever rejected

Mr Rowe says his resignation, due to 'health reasons', came after a threat from former national president Rod White said he would 'forensic audit' him.

'He was out to get to me, I believe.'

Mr Rowe apologised for his actions in misusing the company credit card and the charity's funds and accepted responsibility for the situation.

'We've had a big stuff-up. I don't blame anyone else. The buck stops with me.'
Advertisement

A rioter seen decked out in armor and brandishing a sword and shield during the third consecutive night of violence in St Louis has been arrested by cops.

The heavily armed man was among those demonstrating over Friday's acquittal of Jason Stockley, the white cop accused of murder in the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith.

Wearing a mask, shoulder pads, knee protectors, gloves and carrying a large pole topped with the flag of online activist group Anonymous, he was seen charging through crowds during the clashes.

He was also armed with a pistol and pepper spray and was carrying a megaphone. His shield had the words 'With your shield or on it' inscribed on its front, an ancient Greek proverb popularized by the movie 300.

As occurred on Saturday, thousands of protesters had engaged in a peaceful protest over Stockley's Friday acquittal, this time gathering outside the Police Department HQ before walking through the city.

And just as on Saturday, that was followed up by a splinter group that began causing mayhem, smashing windows in downtown St Louis, with windows being smashed and police attacked.

Scroll down for video

Police stopped this man and confiscated his shield, Anonymous flag and body armor - as well as a pistol, pepper spray, his mask and other items

These are the items confiscated from the individual, who has not yet been named. Police said he was also taken into custody after the incident. Pictured right: A close-up of the pepper spray and pistol

The masked man's flag - with the Anonymous logo - can be seen in this image. The violent protesters were just a small fraction of the thousands that gathered in the daytime

Several St Louis County sheriff's deputies were sprayed with an unknown chemical and had to be decontaminated; others were pelted with rocks

The officers were decontaminated by members of the fire department. The officers' injuries were said to be minor to moderate

Chaos took over St Louis streets for the third night in a row on Sunday, as crowds continued to protests white ex-cop Jason Stockley's acquittal for the 2011 murder of Anthony Lamar Smith. Pictured: people running as demonstrators march

Police arrest a man in St Louis as demonstrators march in the city. In total 80 people were arrested on Sunday night - many of them for refusing to disperse at the orders of police

A man throws a chunk of concrete through a window in St Louis on Sunday. Several businesses and other buildings had their windows smashed in downtown St Louis, while planters and trash cans were knocked over and damaged

Cops arrive en masse to deal with protesters amid violence late at night in St Louis. Police later commended the daytime protesters for their responsible attitude - in stark contrast to the violence that came as night fell

That peaceful protest began with thousands of protesters converging outside St Louis Police Department's headquarters and staging a 'die-in' which they laid across the ground, pretending to be dead. Pictured: A man is loaded into an ambulance

Several St Louis County sheriff's deputies were sprayed with an unknown chemical and had to be decontaminated; others were pelted with rocks.

More than 80 people were arrested and five weapons confiscated, police said. The officers' injuries were minor to moderate, it was announced.

At around 7pm Pastor Doug Hollis, an organizer of the peaceful daytime event, announced: 'We met our goal. We are dispersing. This was a great, peaceful protest. That's what we want.'

Tensions were raised after some declined to leave, and an unmarked police car reversed into a crowd at speed; nobody was hurt, but police said some protesters threw bottles afterward, the St Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

'The crowd started moving in a threatening manner toward the Impala and because of road closures, the car could not go forward,' police said in a statement. 'The officer driving the blue Impala backed down the street to safety.'

By 8pm troublemakers had departed that group and headed downtown.

Windows were broken at several businesses, including the Marriott hotel on Washington Avenue, a sushi restaurant and a nail salon, and the intersection of Olive and 10th Streets was particularly badly hit.

A bike officer was injured around this time and taken to hospital in an ambulance; the nature of his injuries was not immediately apparent.

Strings of arrests were made on multiple occasions as police commanded crowds to disperse, and arrested those who refused to leave.

Police arrive with riot shields to break up the violence downtown. The pattern was the same as the one seen on Saturday, when nine people were arrested, four of them juveniles

A cop chases after vandals in downtown St Louis on Sunday. Residents remain angry about the Stockley decision - but rioters may turn public opinion against protesters if they continue

Just as on Saturday, the violence that occurred after dark on Sunday came after the close of a peaceful early evening protest.

That peaceful protest began with thousands of protesters converging outside St Louis Police Department's headquarters and staging a 'die-in' which they laid across the ground, pretending to be dead.

Authorities had closed off several blocks around the police headquarters Sunday afternoon in anticipation of the demonstration, which included young children and teenagers, as well as adults.

The crowd also observed six minutes of silence in front of the police department building, then chanted 'stop killing us' as officers looked on from the headquarters' windows.

Afterward, they resumed the large-scale marching, chanting slogans such as 'this is what democracy looks like.'

Protesters said that the six-minute silence symbolized the six years between the Smith's death and Stockley's acquittal.

Early Sunday evening, protesters (pictured) gathered outside the St Louis Police Department headquarters, holding Black Lives Matter signs and American flags

Once outside the St Louis Police Department headquarters, many demonstrators participated in a 'die-in', lying on the ground to protest ex-cop Jason Stockley's Friday acquittal in the 2011 shooting of black man Anthony Lamar Smith

Sunday's protest (pictured) was the third consecutive day of action after the verdict was delivered. The judge said there was no evidence Stockley had unlawfully shot Smith or planted a gun on him, despite claims by the prosecution

These are three of the five adults arrested after demonstrations turned violent in St Louis on Saturday. They are (l-r) Lamont Davis, Lakeshia Starks and Tristan Muir. Four juveniles were also arrested; they have not been identified

The other two adults arrested were (l-r) Edward Stewart and Caryn Pierson. Charges for all five range from rioting to property damage. Protesters were furious over Stockley's acquittal after charges he murdered Smith and planted a gun on him

The five adults named by police as suspects in Saturday's riot were Caryn Pierson, Edward Stewart, Tristan Muir, Lakeshia Starks and Lamont Davis. Three of them live in St Louis; one in the surrounding county; and the fifth in Freeburg, Illinois.

Pierson was charged with first-degree property damage and rioting, and jailed on a $20,000 bond. Stewart was charged with unlawful assembly and resisting arrest and jailed on a $10,000 bond.

Muir was charged with rioting and fourth-degree assault; he was jailed on a $10,000 bond. Starks was charged with first-degree property damage, rioting, and resisting arrest and jailed on a $20,000 bond. And Davis was charged with first-degree property damage and jailed on a $20,000 bond.

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens issued a warning Sunday on Facebook that anyone caught destroying property would be held accountable and could face felony charges.

'Saturday night, some criminals decided to pick up rocks and break windows. They thought they'd get away with it. They were wrong. Our officers caught 'em, cuffed 'em, and threw 'em in jail,' the first-term Republican governor wrote.

Demonstrators chant outside police headquarters in St Louis. Many Black Lives Matter placards could be seen among the crowds as they peacefully protested

A protester is seen being arrested in St Louis following riots on Saturday night, which saw dozens of shopfronts smashed. The violence broke out after a peaceful protest concluded earlier Saturday

Police haul off a protester as they break up the violent crowd on Saturday. A protester had thrown red paint onto the riot shield seen here. Rocks and chunks of concrete were also thrown at cops, who responded with tear gas

Stockley (left) was aquitted on Friday in the 2011 death of Smith (right, with his daughter). Smith had been shot after a high-speed chase. Stockley had an AK-47 on his rear seat - something he defended on Saturday

Ed Sheeran's Sunday concert at the Scott Trade Center was canceled on Saturday by Messina Touring Group on the venue's website.

THE JUDGE WHO DECIDED THE CASE St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson The judge who acquitted Stockley is described as objective and well-respected by prosecutors and defense lawyers alike. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who must retire when he turns 70 in December, has ruled both for and against police during his 28 years on the bench. 'He's very methodical and a very objective judge,' Jack Garvey, a lawyer and former judge told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. 'He really will review everything before he makes a decision. I don't think he's ideological in any way.' People accused of crimes have the right to have their cases heard by a jury, but can opt to have the verdict rendered by a judge instead, as Stockley chose to do. Experts say a judge is more likely to understand the concept of reasonable doubt and not be swayed by emotions. Advertisement

'With the safety of the fans being of upmost concern, and after consulting with local officials, who could not fully commit to providing a sufficient amount of police and other city services support, we felt it was in everyones best interest to cancel Sunday night's show,' it read.

'While we regret to have had to come to this decision, we do look forward to returning to St Louis as soon as Eds schedule will allow in 2018.'

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, which had canceled its Saturday and Sunday performances of the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets scores, went ahead with its performance on Sundauy.

However, the orchestra is giving refunds on its website to those who were unable to attend due to the protests.

It also promised refunds to those who had tickets to the canceled Friday and Saturday events.

Rock band U2 also canceled a performance due to protests, saying their Saturday gig could not go ahead as 'local crowd security personnel would not be at full capacity,' and that they 'cannot in good conscience risk our fans' safety.'

Ticketholders will be able to claim a refund online or at their place of purchase, they added.

Saturday's confrontation took place in an area that includes the Blueberry Hill club, where rock legend Chuck Berry played for many years.

There had been a peaceful march in the area earlier in the evening that ended with organizers calling for people to leave and reconvene Sunday afternoon.

But a few dozen protesters refused to go. Police ordered them to disperse, saying the protest was illegal. Hundreds of officers in riot gear eventually moved in with armored vehicles.

The demonstrators retreated down a street, breaking windows with trash cans and throwing objects at police.

Several protesters were taken away in handcuffs, including a man who was carried off upside down. At least one demonstrator was treated after he was hit with pepper spray.

Sam Thomas, who was helping his friend clean up the glass from the shattered windows of his clothing and accessories boutique, OSO, said he understood why people were angry. The US justice system is broken and needs to be fixed, he said.

'I'm not saying this is the right way to fix it,' he said of the damage. 'The window isn't murdered. Nobody is going to have a funeral for the window. We can replace it.'

Demonstrations began peacefully on Friday after Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson acquitted former St Louis police officer Stockley, 36, of first-degree murder in the 2011 shooting death of Smith, 24.

Protesters later clashed with police, and 33 people were arrested and 10 officers injured by early Saturday morning. Police said protesters also damaged Mayor Lyda Krewson's home.

Police are seen here with two people - one of them unconscious after an asthma attack - during the riots. Protests continued on Sunday, but remained peaceful as of the early evening

Smith was shot in his car after Stockley and his partner chased him following an alleged drug deal, authorities said. Prosecutors argued that Stockley planted a weapon in Smith's car.

Stockley left the St Louis Metropolitan Police Department in 2013. Smith's family settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the city for $900,000 in 2013.

An informal group of St Louis-based activists known as the Ferguson frontline have organized the protests.

The group has focused on what it describes as institutional racism since rioting erupted in Ferguson, Missouri, a St Louis suburb, after a white police officer, Darren Wilson, shot black teenager Michael Brown in 2014.

A grand jury decided not to charge Wilson, and the US Justice Department declined to bring any charges of civil rights violations against him.

Brown's death triggered sometimes violent protests in Ferguson and around the United States, fueled by police killings of unarmed black men in other cities.

It also helped spark debate about racial bias in the US justice system.
Notorious prisoner Charles Bronson is suing TV presenter Richard Madeley after he wrongly claimed the hard man had attacked a governor.

Madeley made the error on live television while standing in as host of Good Morning Britain in February.

Bronson, 64, has begun legal action against the presenter for defamation after comments he made while interviewing the prisoner's fiancee Paula Williamson.

Madeley said: 'He could have been out years ago if he behaved himself. We have his charge sheet and his last incident he attacked the governor last year.

Madeley made the error on live television while standing in as host of Good Morning Britain in February

Bronson, 64, has begun legal action against the presenter for defamation after comments he made while interviewing the prisoner's fiancee Paula Williamson (shown)

'You're not going to be let out of prison if you do stuff like that.'

When Paula claims an attack did not happen last year, the presenter looks into the camera and says: 'Charlie you're watching now. You're lying.

'You know it was 2016 mate. It was last year.'

It is believed that a researcher on the morning programme handed Madeley the charge sheet of the wrong prisoner, according to The Sun.

A friend of Bronson (pictured), who spoke to the prisoner, told the newspaper that his mother was 'upset' at the gaff as he had promised not to get involved in more violence

A friend of Bronson, who spoke to the prisoner, told the newspaper that his mother was 'upset' at the gaff as he had promised not to get involved in more violence.

In a statement, Good Morning Britain admitted its mistake and said it was was happy to make a clarification.

Bronson is one of the country's most notorious prisoners and has spent the majority of the past four decades imprisoned for a series of violent crimes.

In recent years he has turned his hand to art and changed his surname from Bronson to Salvador in tribute to the Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dali.

He first struck up a relationship with Miss Williamson - who also had roles in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks - back in 2013 after they started writing to one another.

Bronson has previously said he wants to have children with Miss Williamson, claiming he would be the 'best dad in the world'.

He was first locked up for armed robbery in 1974, but during his time inside he has taken hostages in 10 prison sieges, attacked at least 20 prison officers and caused 500,000 in damage in rooftop protests.

When Paula claims an attack did not happen last year, the presenter looks into the camera (shown) and says: 'Charlie you're watching now. You're lying'

Writing on Facebook last week, Miss Williamson urged 'supporters' to write to the prison to put pressure on them to allow the pair to marry

In 1999 he was given a life sentence after taking prison art teacher Phil Danielson hostage at HMP Hull after he criticised one of his drawings.

Salvador, who does 2,000 press-ups a day, tied a skipping rope round the teacher's neck and led him about 'like a dog' while holding a knife and broken bottle to his throat before releasing him after 44 hours.

He now claims to be a 'changed man' and has passed a number of violence reduction courses in jail and is appealing against his life sentence.

He is currently serving a life sentence in HMP Wakefield, from where his letter is addressed, and has been jailed for most of the last 43 years - 37 of which have been in solitary confinement.
The star of HBO's Insecure proudly spoke about her support for black nominees at the Emmys last night in an awards ceremony that had historic wins for minority stars.

'I'm rooting for everybody black,' Issa Rae said from the red carpet. 'I am!'

The 32-year-old actress and writer also praised the number of African-Americans recognized for their talents in the TV industry.

The star of HBO's Insecure proudly spoke about her support for black nominees at the Emmys last night in an awards ceremony that had historic wins for minority stars

She said: 'You have so many people behind the camera and behind the scenes that are committed to telling authentic, real stories that haven't been seen on television before and you have audiences embracing it because they're tired of seeing the same old, same old stories. So it's just a pleasure to be among such great company,' according to Variety.

Insecure is a comedy-drama about the lives of two young black women, now in its second season.

Last night's Emmy awards was filled with hot-button political and racial moments and had notable wins for minority actors and writers.

Donald Glover sarcastically thanked President Donald Trump during his acceptance speech for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy.

'I'm rooting for everybody black,' Issa Rae said from the red carpet. 'I am!'

The 32-year-old actress and writer (pictured with The Night Of actor Riz Ahmed) also praised the number of African-Americans recognized for their talents in the TV industry

The Atlanta star also became the first African-American to win an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series.

During his speech for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy, he said: 'I want to thank Trump for making black people number one on the most oppressed list. He's the reason I am probably up here.'

Glover was not the only African-American winner to make history at the Emmys Sunday evening with his comedy directing win.

Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win best writing for a comedy series for the hit Netflix show Master of None and Sterling K. Brown became the first black actor in nearly 20 years to win for lead actor in a drama.

Donald Glover accepted Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Atlanta while jokingly saying Trump was the reason he was up on the stage

Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win best writing for a comedy series for the hit Netflix show Master of None

Sterling K. Brown became the first black actor in nearly 20 years to win for lead actor in a drama

Meanwhile, the dystopian vision of 'The Handmaid's Tale,' the deeply cynical Washington comedy 'Veep' and the ever-topical 'Saturday Night Live' won top series honors in a ceremony that took almost nonstop aim at President Donald Trump in awards and speeches.

'Go home, get to work, we have a lot of things to fight for,' producer Bruce Miller said in accepting the best drama trophy for 'A Handmaid's Tale,' which also won best drama writing and directing awards and a best actress trophy for Elisabeth Moss.

Glover's comments took a jab at the president's track record on race.

Last month, President Trump said there were bad people on 'both sides' between neo-Nazis at a riot in Charlottesville and counter protesters.

'Go home, get to work, we have a lot of things to fight for,' producer Bruce Miller said in accepting the best drama trophy for 'A Handmaid's Tale,' which also won best drama writing and directing awards and a best actress trophy for Elisabeth Moss

Trump reiterated the comments last week, saying: 'You've got some very bad people on the other side also,' in reference to people protesting the neo-Nazis.

Last week, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders called for ESPN host Jemele Hill, a black woman, to be fired for calling the president a white supremacist on Twitter.

In addition to his comments, the president has also been accused of racism for several of his appointees including ex chief strategist and senior counselor Steve Bannon and Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

Bannon is the executive chairman of Breitbart News, a notoriously alt-right website and in the eighties Sessions was deemed too racially biased to be a federal district court judge in Alabama.
The charity Oxfam has invited four refugees to stay in Donald Trump's childhood home in New York in a bid to 'send a strong message' to the president about the need for the US to be more welcoming.

The three-story Tudor-style home in Queens that Trump's father, Fred, built in 1940 is now a rental available on Airbnb that anyone can stay in for $725 a night.

It was auctioned off to an unidentified buyer in March for $2.14 million, its second time going up for auction.

But Oxfam has chosen to use the house to draw attention to the refugee crisis as the United Nations General Assembly convenes this week with Trump in attendance.

Scroll down for video

Abdi Iftin, left, from Somalia, Uyen Nguyen, second from left, from Vietnam, Eiman Ali, right, from Somalia but born in Yemen, and Ghassan al-Chahada, from Syria pose for a photo outside President Donald Trump's boyhood home in the Jamaica Estates neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York

Trump's administration issued travel bans on people from six unstable countries and all refugees in an attempt to boost US security.

After various court challenges, the Supreme Court last week allowed the restrictive policy on refugees to remain temporarily. The justices will hear arguments on the bans October 10.

Of the four refugees invited to the home on Saturday, three were from countries listed on the travel ban - two from Somalia, one from Syria. The other is from Vietnam.

'We wanted to send a strong message to Trump and world leaders that they must do more to welcome refugees,' said Shannon Scribner, acting director for the humanitarian department of Oxfam America.

Trump lived in the house on a tree-lined street of single-family dwellings until he was about 4, when his family moved to another home his father had built nearby.

In an upstairs bedroom, Eiman Ali, 22, looked around at the dark wood floors and a copy of the book 'Trump: The Art of the Deal' on a nearby table and wondered about the home's previous resident.

The listing originally played up to the Trump connection while describing the president's childhood home

Eiman Ali, of Somalia and born in Yemen, poses for a portrait during an interview in one of the bedrooms of President Donald Trump's boyhood home

Ghassan al-Chahada, from Syria, poses for a portrait during an interview in the dinning room of the Queens home

'Knowing Donald Trump was here at the age of four makes me think about where I was at the age of four,' said Ali, her smiling face framed by a dark gray hijab. 'We're all kids who are raised to be productive citizens, who have all these dreams and hopes.'

Ali was three when she arrived in the United States from Yemen, where her parents had fled when war broke out in their native Somalia. Ali said she remembered Trump as an entertaining character on 'The Celebrity Apprentice,' but has since changed her opinion.

'To have someone so outspoken against my community become the president of the United States was very eye-opening and hurtful because I have invested a lot in this country,' she said.

The Jamaica Estates Tudor fits 20 people and comes with a life-size cut-out of the Commander in Chief Read

Down the hall, Ghassan al-Chahada, 41, a Syrian refugee who arrived in the United States with his wife and three children in 2012, sat in a room with bunk beds and a sign on the wall that said it likely was Trump's childhood bedroom.

'Before the conflict began in Syria we had dreams of coming to America,' al-Chahada said. 'For us it was a dream come true.'

Al-Chahada said his life changed when Trump signed the ban that barred people from Syria and five other countries from entering the United States.

Trump, who lived in the home with his family from when he was born until he was four years old, has previously said he's against Airbnb when it comes to his own properties

'I had hopes I would get my green card and be able to visit my country,' al-Chahada said. 'But since Trump was elected I don't dare, I don't dare leave this country and not be able to come back.'

He looked out the window into the front yard and thought about what he would say to the president.

'I would advise him to remember, to think about how he felt when he slept in this bedroom,' al-Chahada said. 'If he can stay in tune with who he was as a child, the compassion children have and the mercy, I would say he's a great person.'
Jihadists have been told to attack tourist attractions, churches and 'symbols of western life' in new ISIS propaganda, an internal French police report has warned.

Extremists have also called on 'lone-wolf' assailants to carry out train derailments, poison food and start forest fires across Europe, the document says.

Warped propaganda urges attackers to make explosives 'as shown in tutorials' and for fanatics to conceal their radicalisation.

Jihadists have been told to attack tourist attractions, churches and 'symbols of western life' in new ISIS propaganda, an internal French police report has warned (file picture)

The warnings were analysed in a confidential, seven-page document - drawn up by the French police directorate, according to Le Parisien.

It examines jihadist propaganda over the last three months and warns 'particular attention should be paid to any reports of intrusion or attempted sabotage on the premises of railways.'

The document says that 'the threats of attack remain very high' in France and calls for extra vigilance at schools and universities.

This will extend to laboratories amid fears jihadists will aim to steal 'sensitive products or materials'.

France has been the victim of a string of ISIS-inspired terror attacks in the past two years, most notably the November 2015 atrocities (pictured) which claimed the lives of 130 people. The country has been in a state of emergency ever since

Tourist attractions and churches that are seen as symbols of 'the western way of life' are also seen as being vulnerable as potential targets.

The threat of vehicle attacks is also examined in the wake of similar atrocities in Nice, London, Barcelona, Stockholm and Berlin.

France has been the victim of a string of ISIS-inspired terror attacks in the past two years, most notably the November 2015 atrocities which claimed the lives of 130 people. The country has been in a state of emergency ever since.

Last year, Nice truck terrorist Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel killed 86 people and injured 434 when he drove his truck into a crowd celebrating Bastille Day.
Abandoned on the sandy banks of a Brazilian river, this is the kayak of a British woman who is feared to have been snatched by pirates or killed by drug smugglers.

The 43-year-old vanished while attempting to paddle alone more than 4,000 miles along the entire length of the river.

The former headteacher  whose name has been withheld at the request of her family  has not been heard of since she sent a distress signal from a remote area of Brazil last Wednesday.

Abandoned on the sandy banks of a Brazilian river, this is the kayak of a British woman who is feared to have been snatched by pirates or killed by drug smugglers

The 43-year-old vanished while attempting to paddle alone more than 4,000 miles along the entire length of the river

Last night local police said officers with homicide and kidnap officers squad were investigating the disappearance on the Solimoes river in the northern jungle state of Amazonas.

Photographs released by the authorities show her abandoned kayak on the same sandbank where a police officer disappeared after a confrontation with a drugs gang last year.

Clothing and cigarettes stubs found nearby have also been taken away for analysis.

The woman was canoeing alone on the Solimoes River (pictured) in Brazil's northern jungle state of Amazonas

The canoeist, who was navigating the river alone, activated an emergency locator at 10pm on Wednesday between the towns of Codajas and Coari

Yesterday civil police chief Ivo Martins, who is leading the search for the missing woman, said that the area where she vanished is a drugs trafficking route and known for frequent pirate attacks.

He said: 'There are various lines of inquiry. She could have been killed by drugs traffickers, or attacked by pirates, but she could also have been attacked by an animal, or just got lost.

'We have been looking at all possibilities these last few days.'

In December last year civil police chief Thyago Garcez disappeared in almost exactly the same remote stretch of the Solimoes river, after he and other policemen got into a firefight with drugs traffickers. His body has never been found.

And last month a boat, supposedly navigated by traffickers transporting drugs from Peru, was attacked by pirates who robbed the cargo after an intense gunfight in the same spot, according to reports.

The British woman, who hasn't been named on request of the British consulate, is believed to be a professional canoeist who had been rowing from Quito, Equador, on a solo expedition to cross the Amazon river at jungle city Manaus, a distance of more than 3,000 miles.

She passed through the Brazilian border post with Colombia at Tabatinga, 500 miles from where she went missing, on August 21.

The British woman, who hasn't been named on request of the British consulate, is believed to be a professional canoeist

The organisation she worked for reportedly contacted the Brazilian navy on Wednesday night, informing that the canoeist appeared to have got into trouble and activated her emergency activator.

Navy search teams using a helicopter and two boats started looking for the woman on Thursday, and her canoe was located on Friday, when a team of three divers was also sent to the area to assist the Navy efforts.

Police chief Ivo Martins said: 'We have already taken some of the items found on her canoe to forensics, such as clothes, some cigarette stubs and some shoes.

'We are awaiting the arrival of her canoe to look for more clues.

'Some local river people near where her canoe was found say they saw a woman rowing down the river, but they didn't know which direction she was going.

'Is it possible she fell in the river? It's possible. Is it possible that she's still alive? Yes, it's possible.

'We need to advance the investigations to find out what she was doing here, and her last steps before she disappeared.

'We cannot rule out that she was a victim of a criminal offence, or that she simply got lost. We are working with all the hypotheses.'
Theresa May has backed off her pledge to fight the next general election as Tory leader - saying her focus is on pushing through Brexit.

The Prime Minister struck a distinctly less strident tone after she triggered disquiet among colleagues recently by vowing to stay in place beyond 2022.

On a visit to Japan last month, she insisted: 'I'm not a quitter.'

But speaking in an interview ahead of a visit to New York this week, she ducked questions about her future after the UK formally leaves the EU in April 2019.

The Prime Minister struck a distinctly less strident tone in the interview with ABC News, after she triggered disquiet among colleagues recently by vowing to stay in place beyond 2022

'I'm going to pass Brexit,' Mrs May told ABC. 'I'm going to make sure that Brexit happens because the British people voted for it.

'And I think it's really important that politicians actually do respond and do listen to people.

'We gave the public the choice. They made their choice. And that's why I think it's important.'

Pressed on whether she would still be Conservative leader for the next election, which is due to be held in 2022, Mrs May replied: 'Well, the next election isn't going to be until after we have the - Brexit.'

The more ambiguous stance comes after senior Tories voiced alarm at the prospect of going into another election with Mrs May at the helm.

The PM suffered a shock setback on June 7 when the Conservatives lost their overall majority - having to seek support from the DUP to stay in power.

Mrs May's poor performance was one of the key factors blamed for the dismal showing.

In the ABC interview, Mrs May also played down tensions with Donald Trump over his comments in the wake of the Parsons Green terror attack.

The PM rebuked the US president after he claimed the suspect had previously been in the sights of Scotland Yard.

But Mrs May insisted she has a good relationship with the Mr Trump.

'I do get on with him,' she said. 'And of course, as you know, President Trump actually as an affection for the United Kingdom.

'Like many Americans, he has family connections with the United Kingdom.

'And we work very well together,'

Mrs May was the first world leader to visit the US to meet the newly-minted President Trump.
This is the moment an infuriated man starts a fight with a van driver on a London street because it is blocking the road.

A video shows the two men, one of which is dressed in a high visibility jacket and builders boots, flailing their arms as they throw punches at each other.

According to 'Stewartpower1989' who uploaded the video, the driver was dragged from the van by the man before the drama unfolded.

After dragging the driver from the van, the man in the black T-shirt starts throwing punches at him in the middle of the street

The fight continues with the driver grabbing the man by the waist, sending them both falling to the floor.

Onlookers, including a young school boy with a book bag, watch confused as one shouts 'I don't believe it, it's come to fisticuffs'.

The man, seemingly a friend of the person called 'Kev', continues by urging him to 'leave it', but he puts him in a headlock.

As the pair are dragged to their feet by other men in high visibility clothing, 'Kev' carries on antagonising his rival, asking him 'You wanna go? You wanna go?'

The pair fall to the floor as the fight continues as passers-by, including a young school boy, watch confused

Bystanders try to break up the fight, but the van driver keeps his rival in a headlock

Despite his friend pleading with him to calm down because of the young boy watching, he threatens the driver: 'Anytime you wanna go my boy we'll go.'

As they are finally separated, the driver cracks a smile and looking bewildered asks where the keys to his van have gone.

'Kev' is seen approaching him again, this time with his T-shirt off, but is quickly stopped from having another go at the man when one of the onlookers stands between them.

Eventually the pair walk away from each other and the video ends with the enraged man's friend chuckling to himself.

The pair are dragged to their feet as the man called 'Kev' is heard saying 'Anytime you wanna go, we'll go'
Thousands of women from South Sudan have told of horrific violence, sexual abuse and rape they have suffered during the country's brutal civil war.

One woman recounted how she was gang-raped by five soldiers and when her husband tried to stop them, he was stabbed to death.

Another woman recalled being blindfolded and stripped, then raped by three men as her baby lay nearby before fleeing naked.

Women and girls from South Sudan have told horrifying stories of murder, gang rape and sexual slavery being committed amid the country's brutal civil war (file)

One woman told of how her husband was stabbed to death when he tried to stop five government troops raping her, while another said she was raped in front of her baby (file)

The horrifying stories were reported by Al Jazeera, which spoke to survivors and human rights groups about the atrocities.

One woman recalled: 'My husband was following a short distance behind us.

'When he came and found these men on me, he told them to stop. They grabbed him immediately and killed him with a knife.'

The woman said five women, who she identified as government soldiers, were responsible for raping her and four other women.

South Sudan gained independence from the rest of the country in 2011, but has been in a state of near-constant turmoil since.

Civil war broke out in 2013 when President Salva Kiir Mayardit fired his cabinet and accused Vice-President Riek Machar of trying to instigate a failed coup.

A peace pact was signed by both sides in 2015, but the country descended into chaos again the following year.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, say troops from both sides have been responsible for the violence.

Some of the violence has been perpetrated along ethic lines, as President Mayardit belongs to the majority Dinka group, while Machar identifies with the second-largest Nuer group. Other times the atrocities are indiscriminate.

Human rights groups say both government and rebel forces in South Sudan are carrying out a pre-meditated campaign of sexual violence as they wrest for control of the country (file)

Previous reports by Amnesty detailed how women and men have faced 'shocking' levels of sexual violence, including rape, gang rape, sexual slavery, sexual mutilation, torture, castration, or forced nudity.

One woman, named only as Sara, told of how her 60-year-old mother was raped by three soldiers while out harvesting food for the family.

The attack was so severe that she suffered a dislocated hip, and was still recovering two months later when Amnesty spoke with her.

Sofia, a 29-year-old mother-of-three, told the human rights group how she was kidnapped from her village by soldiers who then kept her as a sex slave for a month along with five other women.

'At night, the rebels chose who to sleep with. I told them that I am a mother and a widow, and that my husband was shot dead, but they didnt care,' she said.

Amnesty has accused both government forces and rebels of campaigns of rape and violence carried out as a part of a pre-meditated strategy.

But a spokesman for the government told Al Jazeera this was not true.

Soldiers caught committing rape or sexual abuse are punished, he told the news site, though he rebutted the survivors' claims, saying they could be making it up.
President Donald Trump went after 'bureaucracy and mismanagement' in remarks at to the United Nations Monday  but only after plugging his condo on UN Plaza across the street.

'I actually saw great potential right across the street, to be honest with you, and it was only for the reason that the United Nations was here that that turned out to be such a successful project,' Trump said at the top of his remarks for a meeting on UN reform.

His line was a reference to Trump World Tower, the 72-story glass rectangular building located at UN Plaza.

President Donald Trump blasted UN bureaucracy and plugged his condo tower in remarks at the organization Monday

On it's web site, the Trump Organization touts the UN as a prime selling point.

'Adjacent to the United Nations Headquarters and surrounded by lush landscaping with a public plaza along East 47th Street, our 90-story building offers residential condominiums that deliver incomparable luxury,' according to the official site.

After delivering remarks where he criticized UN spending, Trump met with various world leaders  then said it was time to make the UN 'great'  leaving out the 'again.'

'The meeting was very good. I met a lot of the people that I have been dealing with over the last nine months. A lot of potential. The United Nations has tremendous potential and we'll see how it works out,' Trump said.

Asked about his main message for his major speech Tuesday at the UN, Trump said it was to make the United Nations great. Not again. Make the United Nations great, Trump said, referencing his 'make America great again' slogan.

'Such tremendous potential, and I think we'll be able to do this,' he said.

Introducing the president was UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, who talked up the president's business credentials on a week where he will meet with leaders of Israel, South Korea, and Turkey.

U.S. President Donald Trump talks with U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres (L) as they attend a session on reforming the United Nations at U.N. Headquarters in New York, U.S., September 18, 2017. Trump commended Guterres even as he criticized the UN

'It is now my honor to introduce someone who is no stranger to change. Donald Trump has a businessman's eye for seeing potential, and he sees great potential, not just in this reform movement, but in the United Nations itself.'

She added: 'He shares your commitment to creating a more effective advocate for peace, security and human rights.'

The president made his remarks at a reform panel ahead of his highly anticipated Tuesday speech to the UN General Assembly. Trump has regularly gone after the UN before becoming president.

He noted the organizations worthy goals, then said: 'Yet in recent years the United Nations has not reached its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement.'

LOCATION LOCATION: Trump World Building, Empire State building, and the Chrysler building

Trump referenced his residential tower at the UN

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley (L) and U.S. President Donald Trump participate in a session on reforming the United Nations at UN Headquarters in New York, U.S., September 18, 2017. She hailed the president's business savvy in her introduction

Trump World tower in the clouds

'While the United Nations on a regular budget has increased by 140 per cent and its staff has more than doubled since 2000, we are not seeing the results in line with this investment,' Trump said.

Trump referenced the hefty U.S. dues that keep the UN afloat. 'To honor the people of our nations, we must ensure that no one and no member state shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden. And that's militarily or financially,' he said.

With tension on the Korean peninsula a major focus point this week, Trump brought up peacekeeping missions.

Donald Trump greeting people inside UN United Nations on Monday September 18th, 2017

'We also ask that every peacekeeping mission have clearly defined goals and metrics for evaluating success. They deserve to see the value in the United Nations, and it is our job to show it to them. We encourage the secretary general to fully use his authority to cut through the bureaucracy, reform outdated systems and make firm decisions to advance the UN's core mission.

Even as he bashed the world body, Trump praised UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

'But I know that under the secretary general that's changing and it's changing fast, and we've seen it. That's why we commend the secretary general and his call for the United Nations to focus more on people and less on bureaucracy ,' Trump said.

PLEASE DON'T BORE US: President Donald Trump pats British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson on the back as they participate in a session on reforming the United Nations at U.N. Headquarters in New York, U.S., September 18, 2017

And although he criticized the UN, his remarks did not feature his more slashing rhetoric of the campaign, where he characterized it as a threat to freedom and not a friend to the U.S.

'We encourage the secretary general to fully use his authority to cut through the bureaucracy, reform outdated systems and make firm decisions to advance the UN's core mission. Further, we encourage all member states to look at ways to take bold stands at the United Nations with an eye toward changing business as usual and not being beholden to ways of the past, which were not working,' the president said from his remarks, which he delivered while seated.

Trump is making his debut at the United Nations and taking his complaints about the world body straight to the source.

In his first appearance as president at the United Nations General Assembly, Trump on Monday will be addressing a U.S.-sponsored event on reforming the 193-member organization he has sharply criticized.

As a candidate for president, Trump labeled the U.N. as weak and incompetent, and 'not a friend' of either the United States or democracy.

But he has softened his tone since taking office, telling ambassadors from U.N. Security Council member countries at a White House meeting this year that the U.N. has 'tremendous potential.'

In his first appearance as president at the United Nations General Assembly, President Donald Trump on Monday will be addressing a U.S.-sponsored event on reforming the 193-member organization he has sharply criticized

As a candidate for president, Trump labeled the U.N. as weak and incompetent, and 'not a friend' of either the United States or democracy

Later, he'll hold a bilateral meeting with Emmnauel Macron of France, who he's seen paling around with at Elysee Palace in July

Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wave after Trump's address at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem at the end of May. They'll sit down for a chat this afternoon in New York, too

Trump more recently has praised a pair of unanimous council votes to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its continued nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

Trump's big moment comes Tuesday, when he delivers his first address to a session of the U.N. General Assembly.

The annual gathering of world leaders will open amid serious concerns about Trump's priorities, including his policy of 'America First,' his support for the U.N. and a series of global crises. It will be the first time world leaders will be in the same room and able to take the measure of Trump.

The president and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will speak at Monday's reform meeting. The U.S. has asked member nations to sign a declaration on U.N. reforms, and more than 100 have done so. Trump wants the U.N. to cut spending and make other operational changes.

Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., said Trump's criticisms were accurate at the time, but that it is now a 'new day' at the U.N. An organization that 'talked a lot but didn't have a lot of action' has given way to a 'United Nations that's action-oriented,' she said, noting the Security Council votes on North Korea this month.

Guterres has proposed a massive package of changes, and Haley said the U.N. is 'totally moving toward reform.'

'We said that we needed to get value for our dollar and what we're finding is the international community is right there with us in support of reform. So it is a new day at the U.N.,' she said Sunday on CNN's 'State of the Union.' She said Trump's pleas had been heard and 'what we'll do is see him respond to that.'

On ABC's This Week, Trump's national security adviser said Trump would tell other member nations during a session this morning on reform, management, security and development that the world body, now almost 75 years old, needs to change to stay true to its charter.

'The president is going to say the United Nations can't be effective unless it reforms its bureaucracy and unless it achieves a higher degree of accountability for member states,' McMaster said. 'Some member states are actually trying to infiltrate and subvert some really key organizations within the UN.'

Marine One, carrying President Donald Trump, lands at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport on Sunday. Trump is staying at his former home, Trump Tower, during the conference

A line of sanitation trucks filled with sand line Fifth Ave. in front of Trump Tower amid heightened security before the start of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City

A member of a security team on Trump Tower looks towards high floors of nearby buildings shortly before the arrival of President Donald Trump in New York

Trump said on the campaign trail, 'The United Nations is not a friend of democracy, it's not a friend to freedom, it's not a friend even to the United States of America, where, as you know, it has its home.'

McMaster argued on This Week that 'parts' of the United Nations have not been beneficial to the U.S.

'I mean look at the Human Rights Council that is populated by some of the countries whose actions against their own people are particularly heinous,' he said. 'And so what's important is to focus on reform.'

Trump also planned to hold separate talks Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and French President Emmanuel Macron.

McMaster said the conversations would be wide-ranging, but that 'Iran's destabilizing behavior' would be a major focus of Trump's discussions with both leaders.

Trump visited Macron in Paris over Bastille Day in July. After a tense first meeting earlier in the summer that was characterized by hand-jerking as the two men tussled for the power position, they came out of their two-day visit on amiable footing.

The trip to France marked Trump's third voyage abroad since taking office. His first one took him to Israel, when he held talks with Netanyahu. The Israeli PM has also visited the White House.

Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., says Trump's criticisms of the U.N. were accurate at the time, but that it is now a 'new day' at the organization. National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster says Trump was right on the trail, 'parts' of the U.N. are not beneficial to the U.S.

Breakthroughs on a Middle East peace agreement are not expected in their talk at the U.N.

Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser on the issue, recently returned from a trip to the Middle East.

On a conference call last week that he and the president held with Jewish leaders, Trump said his team is working very hard to achieve a peace agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians and that he hoped to see 'significant progress' on a deal before the end of the year. Trump is scheduled to meet later this week with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.

Trump is also hosting a dinner for Latin American leaders tonight. Venezuela, which has been gripped by economic and political turmoil, will be discussed, McMaster said.

The United States is the largest contributor to the U.N. budget, reflecting its position as the world's largest economy. It pays 25 percent of the U.N.'s regular operating budget and over 28 percent of the separate peacekeeping budget - a level of spending that Trump has complained is unfair.

'We need the member states to come together to eliminate inefficiency and bloat, and to ensure that no one nation shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden militarily or financially,' Trump told the security council ambassadors as they dined at the White House in April. 'This is only fair to our taxpayers.'

The Trump administration is conducting a review of the U.N.'s 16 far-flung peacekeeping operations, which cost nearly $8 billion a year. Cutting their costs and making them more effective is a top priority for Haley.

Guterres has said he is totally committed to reforming the U.N. and making it more responsive to the needs of the 21st century world. As for the peacekeeping budget, he said last week that his intention is to do everything possible to make the missions 'the most effective' as well as 'cost-effective.'
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov held talks on Sunday ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York this week.

The pair discussed cooperation on the Syrian crisis, issues in the Middle East and the agreement to bring peace to Ukraine, a spokesperson for Lavrov said.

After the meeting, Tillerson left without commenting to reporters, who were initially invited in to cover the opening of the talks but were asked to leave before he arrived.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (left) and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov (right) held talks on Sunday ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York on Sunday

Tillerson and Lavrov: 'Met this evening in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly,' spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

'The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward,' she said.

The talks come amid a 'historic' post-Cold War low between Washington and Moscow, according to Tillerson, following tit-for-tat cuts to each other's diplomatic missions.

The pair discussed cooperation on the Syrian crisis, Middle East issues, and the agreement to bring peace to Ukraine, a spokesperson for Lavrov said following the talks held at the Russian mission. After the meeting, Tillerson left without commenting to reporters (pictured)

But Washington wants to work with Russia to help resolve the crisis in Syria, where both have military forces deployed.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin will not attend the UN General Assembly this week, but Donald Trump will make his much anticipated first address to the world body on Tuesday.

Trump, who once criticised the UN as a 'club' for 'people to get together, talk and have a good time,' will lay out his views on how to improve the United Nations a day before he makes his first address to the General Assembly.

Tillerson and Lavrov: 'Met this evening in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly,' spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement. Security has been beefed up surrounding the area at world leaders come together for the annual summit

Russia's President Vladimir Putin will not attend the UN General Assembly this week, but his US counterpart Donald Trump will make his much anticipated first address to the world body on Tuesday

Ties between Washington and Moscow are at what Tillerson has called a 'historic' post-Cold War low, amid tit-for-tat cuts to each other's diplomatic missions - but Washington wants to work with Russia to help resolve the crisis in Syria, where both have military forces deployed

Around 130 world leaders are attending this year's global gathering, but all eyes will be on Trump, whose 'America First' agenda has alarmed both allies and foes.

The UN's number one financial backer, the United States has threatened deep cuts to UN funding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said would create an 'unsolvable problem' for the world body.

Guterres, who is pushing for an overhaul of the UN bureaucracy, will also address the event at which leaders will sign a pledge of support for reform.

Around 130 world leaders are attending this year's global gathering, but all eyes will be on Trump, whose 'America First' agenda has alarmed both allies and foes

Trump, who once criticised the UN as a 'club' for 'people to get together, talk and have a good time,' will lay out his views on how to improve the United Nations a day before he makes his first address to the General Assembly

France and Russia have reacted coolly to the US initiative, amid concerns that the US administration is focused more on cost-cutting than improving the UN's performance.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley was a driving force behind a $600-million-dollar cut to the UN peacekeeping budget this year.

Haley on Friday pointed to the more than 120 countries that back the US-drafted political declaration on UN reform as a 'miraculous number,' showing there is support for a 'massive reform package' led by Guterres.
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has said the US embassy in Cuba is 'under review' after a string of unexplained incidents which damaged the hearing of American diplomats in Havana.

Tillerson's comments were the strongest indication to date that the United States could mount a major diplomatic response to the suspected 'sonic attacks', potentially bring to an end the historic restart of relations between the U.S. and Cuba.

The two former foes reopened embassies in Washington and Havana in 2015 after a half-century of estrangement.

'We have it under evaluation,' Tillerson said of a possible embassy closure. 'It's a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered. We've brought some of those people home. It's under review.'

The U.S. flag flies at the U.S. embassy in Havana, Cuba. Investigators are chasing many theories about what's harming American diplomats in Cuba, including a sonic attack, electromagnetic weapon or flawed spying device

Of the 21 medically confirmed U.S. victims - diplomats and their families - some have permanent hearing loss or concussions, while others suffered nausea, headaches and ear-ringing. Some are struggling with concentration or common word recall.

Some victims felt vibrations or heard loud sounds mysteriously audible in only parts of rooms, leading investigators to consider a potential 'sonic attack.' Others heard nothing but later developed symptoms.

Tillerson once called the events 'health attacks,' but the State Department has since used the term 'incidents' while emphasizing the U.S. still doesn't know what has occurred. Cuba has denied any involvement or responsibility but stressed it's eager to help the U.S. resolve the matter.

In a rare face-to-face conversation, Castro told U.S. diplomat Jeffrey DeLaurentis that he was equally baffled, and concerned. Predictably, Castro denied any responsibility.

The U.S. has said the tally of Americans affected could grow as more cases are potentially detected.

The last reported incident was on August 21, according to a U.S. official briefed on the matter. The official wasn't authorized to discuss the matter publicly and requested anonymity.

A decision to shut the embassy, even temporarily, would deal a demoralizing blow to the delicate detente that President Barack Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro announced in late 2014.

The next year, embassies were reopened and restrictions on travel and commerce eased - signs of a warming relationship that displeased some hard-liners in Cuba's government. President Donald Trump has reversed some of the changes, but left many in place.

Tillerson spoke on CBS' 'Face the Nation' as world leaders and top diplomats descended on New York for annual U.N. General Assembly meetings. President Donald Trump will give his first speech on the major global platform this week.

Cuba President Raul Castro appeared as alarmed as the Americans about a spate of U.S. diplomats harmed in Havana. He is pictured above during a rally in November 2016

Cuba is also represented at the U.N., but it's not expected Trump will meet with any Cuban leaders or officials during his visit.

The U.S. hasn't identified either a culprit or a device. Investigators have explored the possibility of sonic waves, an electromagnetic weapon, or an advanced spying operation gone awry, U.S. officials briefed on the probe said. The U.S. hasn't ruled out that a third country or a rogue faction of Cuba's security services might be involved.

In Washington, lawmakers in Congress have been raising alarm over the incidents, with some calling for the embassy to be closed.

On Friday, five Republican senators wrote to Tillerson and urged him to not only shut the embassy, but also kick all Cuban diplomats out of the United States - a move with dramatic diplomatic implications.

'Cuba's neglect of its duty to protect our diplomats and their families cannot go unchallenged,' said the lawmakers, who included Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who led the effort, and Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, a prominent Cuban-American and critic of the U.S. detente.

The incidents have frightened Havana's tight-knit diplomatic community, raising concerns about the potential scope.

At least one other country, France, has tested embassy staff for potential sonic-induced injuries, the AP has reported.
Samuel Johnson has revealed the heartbreaking final moments he spent with his sister Connie before her death.

The Gold Logie winner said the pair spent 'half an hour laughing' before she 'fell asleep and never woke up,' while appearing on the Project Monday night.

Co-host Carrie Bickmore could be seen choking back tears, as Mr Johnson vowed to continue his sister's legacy just hours after attending her funeral in Canberra.

Scroll down for video

Samuel Johnson (pictured) revealed the heartbreaking final moments he spent with his sister Connie before her death, while appearing on The Project Monday

The Gold Logie winner said the pair (pictured here together) spent 'half an hour laughing' before she 'fell asleep and never woke up'

Mr Johnson added that he now consider's himself not just the chief custodian of his sister Connie's legacy, but the 'head of cancer vanquishment' in the country.

'I will accelerate the push for a cure... I'm not going to stop, mate,' he told the hosts.

'She was training her little brother to do her work when she was gone. I'm ready for that.

Just minutes before his appearance, Sam took to the Love Your Sister page to share a photo of himself travelling to the show.

Looking out a plane window solemnly, the picture showed him travelling from his sister's funeral in Canberra to the Melbourne studio.

'Thanks to the anonymous rich person who got me from Con's service to The Project in time,' he captioned the moment.

Mr Johnson added that he now consider's himself not just the chief custodian of his sister Connie's legacy, but the 'head of cancer vanquishment' in the country

Just minutes before his appearance, Sam took to the Love Your Sister page to share a photo of himself travelling to the show, thanking an 'anonymous rich person' for helping him get there

Speaking about the service during his appearance, Mr Johnson said it was 'beautiful' and went exactly as Connie had planned.

'Seems weird to apply the word "perfect" to a funeral, but you know, it was perfect,' he said.

Mr Johnson finished by touching on the pair's nicknames for each other - Sammy Seal and Connie Cottonsocks - and how he had established a range of pink 'Connie cotton socks' in her honour.

Having brought the idea to Connie during her final days in hospice she gave him her blessing, so long as some 'Sammy Seal' ones could be made in blue too.

Mr Johnson also touched on the pair's nicknames for each other - Sammy Seal and Connie Cottonsocks - and how he had established a range of pink 'Connie cotton socks' in her honour (pictured on the desk)

Co-host Carrie Bickmore (pictured) could be seen choking back tears as Mr Johnson vowed to continue his sister's legacy

The mother-of-two passed away on September 8 at the age of 40, after a prolonged battle with breast and liver cancer.

She leaves behind her two sons Willoughby, 11 and Hamilton, who turns 10 on September 26.

After Connie's death Sam confirmed the news with a heartfelt message to fans, informing them that his beloved sister 'went so richly, and with such grace'.

'We lost Connie today. Or, as she asked me to say, she died of cancer today. It was so beautiful,' he wrote.

'We laughed, we cried, we sang stupid songs from our childhood to her, which she loved (mostly!). I read her so many village messages, which she relished.

'Trust me, she was genuinely cushioned by your love, till the end.'

The mother-of-two (pictured after receiving her Medal of the Order of Australia) passed away on September 8 at the age of 40, after a prolonged battle with breast and liver cancer.

After Connie's death Sam confirmed the news with a heartfelt message to fans, informing them that his beloved sister 'went so richly, and with such grace'

After his sister was diagnosed, Mr Johnson began vigorously campaigning to raise funds and awareness to beat cancer.

The Gold-Logie winning actor rode around Australia on a unicycle in 2013, raising $1.6 million for breast cancer awareness and research.

Following the record-breaking stunt he promised to continue fundraising, with the hope of raising more than ten million dollars.

This year he won a Gold Logie for his portrayal of Molly Meldrum, dedicating the statue to his sister who was watching at home, before retiring to focus on Love Your Sisters fundraising.

A public service for her will be held at St Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne on September 23.

After his sister was diagnosed, Mr Johnson began vigorously campaigning to raise funds and awareness to beat cancer and rode around Australia on a unicycle, raising $1.6 million
An undercover report has exposed a shocking trend in a Chinese city, which sees pet owners sending their dogs to street vets to have their vocal cords removed to stop them from barking.

Horrifying pictures and videos have emerged which show one unlicensed vet, in south-west China, performed devocalisation operations on dozens of dogs in the street as his assistant forced open the mouths of the animals.

The news has sparked an outrage among the public as people and animal lovers called the procedure 'unnecessary' and 'cruel'.

A white Pomeranian puppy was forced to have its vocal cords removed in south-west China

Mr Zeng reportedly offers the surgery at a cost from 5 to 11, depending on the dog's size

The undercover report, by Chengdu Business Daily, claimed that the vet, known with a surname Zeng, had been running his business at a flower and bird market in Qingbaijiang district of Chengdu since September 14.

Mr Zeng can be seen setting his booth at the side of a road. His equipment, displayed on a folding table, included a thong, a torch, cotton wool balls and tourniquets.

A disturbing video shows a white Pomeranian being injected anaesthetics into its front limb.

Mr Zeng then put a thong into the dog's mouth and cut off its vocal cords while his assistant held the canine's mouth wide open with the help of two red strings.

The devocalisation operation ended as Zeng threw the vocal cords out on the floor and took the white dog aside.

All the equipment were been sanitised before and after use and were put on a wooden table

Syringes, cotton balls and dozens of vocal cords were disposed on the floor after operations

Mr Zeng told the undercover reporter, who pretended to be a potential customer, that he did not have a licence to run the operation, but he claimed that he learned the skills from 'the others' years ago.

'Why do you need a licence? The inspection is not strict and no one is checking anyway,' Mr Zeng can be heard saying.

The reporter said all the equipment had not been sterilised when the unlicensed vet performed about 10 operations in an hour.

Vocal cords can be seen scattering on the floor near Mr Zeng's seat.

Mr Zeng added that the operation costs from 50 to 100 yuan (5.62 to 11.24).

After receiving a tip-off, the officers from the Qingbaijiang Forestry Bureau visited the market on September 17, and requested Mr Zeng to present a valid business licence.

Mr Zeng admitted he did not have a licence and was told to stop his business pending further investigation.

The canine struggled but was anaesthetised by the unlicensed vet and his assistant

Post-operation: Dogs were lined up in a row to wait the anaesthetics in its body to pass away

In explaining why they had brought their dogs to undergo the operations, a few pet owners complained to the officers that they had received complaints from their neighbours.

'(They complained) that the dogs are too loud, so I took it here to have it devocalised and now you told him to stop in the middle of the operation. What should we do?'

Mr Zeng's service did not meet the standards of an animal clinic, according to China's Animal Epidemic Prevention Law.

Performing operations in the street can increase the chance of bacteria infections to the canine and unsterilised equipment can pose threats of spreading diseases among the canines, according to the Law.

Forestry Bureau officers asked Mr Zeng to present his veterinary licence on September 17

Mr Zeng explained to the officers that he learned the skills from 'the others' years ago

The act of getting pet dogs devocalised can be observed around China.

Most owners choose to let their animals undergo the surgery to stop their pets from barking too much.

According to Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, devocalisation is an invasive procedure with the inherent risks of anesthesia, infection, blood loss and other serious complications.

Dogs could suffer breathing difficulties and increased level of stress and risks of threats to safety as a result of the operation.

Animal rights group PETA Asia explained that devocalisation took away dogs of their natural ability to vocalise and communicate. An officer from the group said the procedure 'is unnecessary and inherently cruel'.

Keith Guo, a spokesman from PETA Asia, said: 'Its horrifying to know so many dogs have suffered through this procedure at the hands of this unlicensed vet.'

Irene Feng, director of Animals Asia's Cat and Dog Welfare, agreed that devocalisation is a cruel and harmful operation to dogs.

'It is being carried out in unsanitary conditions risking pain and infection for the animal, while such mutilation is obviously extremely negative for the dogs' welfare and quality of life,' Ms Feng stressed.

Both animal groups admitted there are no organisation running a specific campaign against the devocalisation trend in China, but they have been working hard to increase the awareness about responsible companion animal ownership.
The son of Lanell Latta, who was stabbed to death in Sydney's Northern Beaches on Monday, has been charged with her murder.

Joel Woszatka, 25, was arrested in nearby Ruskin Rowe, where police spoke with him before putting him in a paddy wagon and taking the man to Manly Police station.

He has been charged with murder and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Police are investigating whether drugs, particularly ice, have played a role in the murder of Ms Latta, Nine News reported.

A friend of the family told Daily Mail Australia drug and alcohol abuse was becoming a big problem with young people living in the area.

Scroll down for video

Joel Woszatka (pictured), 25, was arrested and charged over the stabbing murder of his mother, 50-year-old Lanell Latta

Ms Latta (pictured), 50, was found stabbed to death in her rented home on Sydney's northern beaches on Monday

He said people had been 'trying to help Joel for a while, but it was having very little effect'.

'Neighbours would see him walking along the street at 9am with a long neck in a paper bag, and he would do the same in the evening,' he said.

'The younger kids who once would try and say hi to him, started to get scared of him.'

The man described Lanell, who worked as a hairdresser, as a 'hippie chick' with a 'beautiful smile'.

'She was a beautiful person who couldn't harm a flea,' he said.

He said since the killing had made headlines, debate had been raging about what could be done to tackle ice use among the local youth.

'Ice needs to be wiped off the face of the earth,' the man said.

'Addicts are just the victims of the dealers.'

Police are investigating whether drugs, particularly ice, have played a role in the murder of Ms Latta (Ms Latta pictured left, Woszatka second from right)

Ms Latta was described as a 'hippie chick' who had a 'beautiful smile'. A family friend said she wouldn't harm a flea

A witness to Woszatka's arrest told the broadcaster officers and the man had been conversing peacefully before he was put into the paddy wagon.

'He didn't put up a fight, no carrying on,' the man said.

Lanell Latta, 50, was found dead at the property on Marine Parade near Avalon Beach at 10.45am, NSW police said.

She was the daughter of Australian surfing champion Frank Latta, who was equally as highly regarded for his surfboard shaping and design skills.

Ms Latta had been renting her Avalon home from Australian supermodel Gemma Ward, who expressed her shock to The Daily Telegraph.

'It's heartbreaking news. My heart goes out to the family and all involved in this tragedy,' she said.

Australian supermodel Gemma Ward and her husband David Letts rented out the two-bedroom beach home since buying it last year for $1.6 million

Ms Latta, 50, is alleged to have been stabbed to death by her own son, who has been arrested and charged

Pictured: A family member of Ms Latta breaks down after the mother's body was discovered

Ms Ward bought the two-bedroom beach property with her husband David Letts in 2016 for $1.6 million. The property was leased to the victim.

Mr Letts, who knew one of Ms Latta's sons, also expressed his heartbreak at the news.

'She was such a sweet woman, it's just a tragedy,' he said.

Georgia Westwood, who lived with her family next door to Ms Latta, said she could hear screaming from her balcony today.

'I saw a man running down the road but I didn't really think anything of it,' she told Nine News.

Woszatka was arrested shortly after and was questioned at Manly Police Station

Officers have cordoned off the home and were still at the scene late into the afternoon (pictured)

It is believed the victim was renting the two-bedroom house from Ms Ward

The two-bedroom house on Marine Parade belongs to model Gemma Ward

Ms Latta's death is being investigated. Officers have cordoned off the home and are still at the scene.

A report will be prepared for the coroner, officers confirmed.

Family members of the victim were overcome with emotion as they arrived at the home following the incident.

Police were seen consoling a young woman and she held her hands to her face.

A man in a grey hoodie also appeared to be crying as he sat on the curb.

Girls dressed in what appear to be school uniform are seen speaking with police outside the crime scene

A man is pictured holding his head in his hands as he sits on the curb in front of the home

A report into Ms Latta's death will be prepared for the coroner, officers confirmed

Police were seen consoling a young woman and she held her hands to her face

Friends paid tribute to Ms Latta on Facebook, one writing: 'So sad, I miss you already beautiful will never forget your smile'.

Another said the woman: 'was and is a beautiful spirit'.

Ms Ward and her husband David Letts have been renting out the two-bedroom beach home since buying it last year for $1.6 million.

It was advertised for a six-month lease at $750 per week from October, according to 9News.

The couple have two children - a daughter Naia, 3, and seven-month-old son Jett.

Officers were seen flooding the quiet suburban street after Ms Latta was stabbed to death

The Perth-born supermodel (pictured), who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s

Ms Ward and her husband David Letts have been renting out the two-bedroom beach home

Ms Ward and her husband reportedly bought the home last year for $1.6 million

Ms Ward, 29, made her Australian Fashion Week debut at just age 15 in 2003.

The Perth-born supermodel, who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s.

She was ranked as the world's 10th highest earning model by Forbes in 2007 before deciding to step away from the limelight.

In 2014, Ms Ward returned to the runway at the Spring/Summer 2015 show during Milan Fashion Week.

A group of police are pictured talking outside the Northern Beaches home

More officers were seen putting on and taking off forensic suits as they entered and left the home

The Marine Parade home was advertised for a six-month lease at $750 per week from October

The woman's death is being investigated. Officers have cordoned off the home (inside pictured) and were still at the scene late into the afternoon
A bullfighter was mortally wounded in front of a horrified crowd when his bare-handed stand-off in front of a 1,100lb beast went horribly wrong.

Fernando Quintela, 26, suffered irreversible internal injuries in the bullring in Moita, a district of Lisbon, Portugal, and surgeons were unable to save him.

Quintela acted as a 'forcado', one of a group of men who perform a traditional part of bullfights in the country.

Fernando Quintela suffered irreversible internal injuries after he was charged in the bullring

The bull charges at Quintela, trapping his body between its two horns

Their job is to challenge the bull with their bare hands, by standing in front of it and egging the animal on.

The aim is to get the bull to run towards them and one of them grabs its head whilst the others jump on top of it. They all wear traditional clothing, including a long green knitted hat.

Footage of the horrific moment shows Quintela and the bull in a standoff in the Moita do Ribatejo bullring.

He can be seen stamping his feet as the animal becomes more antagonised.

The bull then charges at Quintela, trapping his body between its two horns and tossing him to the floor, before smashing into him again.

Fellow forcados tried to pull the bullfighter free but he had already suffered severe internal injuries and bleeding.

Footage of the horrific moment shows Quintela and the bull in a standoff in the Moita do Ribatejo bullring

He was rushed to the bullring's own infirmary but then taken on to the Sao Jose hospital in Lisbon. Surgeons were unable to reverse the internal haemorrhaging and he died a few hours later.

The bullfighter, who was born in Portugal, was a member of the Amadores de Alcochete forcado group and made his debut in France in 2008.

The association has expressed its heartbreak at his death and tributes have poured in to their Facebook site.

'He was a warrior,' said one mourner.

'He was a brave and young forcado,' said another.

A memorial service is to be held on Sunday in Alcochete.
A Soviet officer who prevented nuclear Armageddon has passed away aged 77.

Stansilav Petrov was monitoring radar in Moscow at the height of the Cold War in 1983 when it showed that America had launched a salvo of nukes at Russia.

Despite panic among his subordinates Petrov decided not to retaliate, and it was later revealed the radar reading was false - generated by sunbeams reflected off some clouds.

Stanislav Petrov, a former Soviet lieutenant colonel credited with averting a nuclear Armageddon during the Cold War, has passed away aged 77

Petrov was in charge of monitoring Russian radar on the night of September 26, 1983, when it showed America had launched five nukes - calling for an immediate response (file image)

His actions and the nuclear near-miss went completely unacknowledged until military documents were declassified in 1998, bringing his heroism to light.

Even his wife, who died in 1997, was unaware that her husband had helped to avoid what almost certainly would have escalated into World War Three.

Speaking about the night in question - September 26, 1983 - the former lieutenant colonel told the Associated Press that the decision was '50/50'.

He previously told RT: 'When I first saw the alert message, I got up from my chair.

'All my subordinates were confused, so I started shouting orders at them to avoid panic. I knew my decision would have a lot of consequences.

'The siren went off for a second time. Giant blood-red letters appeared on our main screen, saying START. It said that four more missiles had been launched.

'My cozy armchair felt like a red-hot frying pan and my legs went limp. I felt like I couldn't even stand up. That's how nervous I was when I was taking this decision.'

But Petrov (pictured in 2013 collecting the Dresden Prize) correctly identified the reading as a fake, and it was later confirmed to be nothing more than sunlight reflecting off some clouds

From the moment the first alarm sounded, Petrov had just 15 minutes to decide whether or not to report the launch, and Russia had 30 minutes to decide whether or not to respond.

Russia was genuinely fearful of a surprise attack by America at the time, after its military shot down a passenger plane flying to South Korea from the U.S., suspecting it of spying.

The United States, after a series of provocative military maneuvers, was preparing for a major NATO exercise, called Able Archer, which simulated preparations for a nuclear attack.

But figuring that America would have launched far more than five missiles in the case of an actual attack, Petrov reported that the alarm was a dud.

His decision was backed by more-reliable ground radar systems, which had failed to detect anything, but he recalled being far from certain when he made his report.

Had Petrov reported the warning as genuine, it could have prompted his commanders to launch retaliatory strikes against America - leading to World War Three (file image)

Petrov passed away back in March, but his death was only discovered earlier this month after a friend called to wish him a happy birthday and was informed that he had died

It turned out that his assumptions were correct, but rather than being rewarded, his actions were covered up by superiors, likely embarrassed by the failure of their early warning systems.

Accolades would only come years later after blogger Karl Schumacher convinced Petrov to travel to Germany with him, where his story could be told.

In the next several years Petrov was honored with an award from the Association of World Citizens which said: 'To the man who averted nuclear war.'

Petrov was later given the German Media Prize, previously handed to Mandela and the Dalai Lama, and the Dresden Peace Prize, which is awarded for avoiding conflict.

Perhaps fittingly for a man whose greatest accomplishment went unnoticed for decades, Petrov passed away quietly back in May in a small town near Moscow.

His death was only discovered after Schumacher called on September 7 to wish him a happy birthday, and was told he had died.
Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has admitted the cancellation of flights due to pilot holidays is 'a mess'

Ryanair's chief executive has admitted the 'mess' over the thousands of cancellations could cost the airline nearly 18million and promised those affected will discover their fate tonight.

The under-fire carrier has revealed the 2,024 routes which will be axed over the next six weeks, leaving passengers stranded or out of pocket.

Customers have already vented their fury over having their weddings ruined and their whole years destroyed thanks to the bedlam caused by the grounded planes.

Ryanair said air traffic control delays, strikes, bad weather and a backlog of holiday has led to punctuality falling to below 80 per cent over the last two weeks.

Chief executive Michael O'Leary, who saw his company's shares fall by three percent knocking around 500million off its market value, admitted: 'It is clearly a mess.'

He added: 'We're working very hard at the moment to make sure we finalise the list of flight cancellations, which will affect less than two per cent of our customers, and also look after those customers who are disrupted.'

The crisis could be a Ratner moment for the airline, according to Martin Lewis, a leading consumer campaigner.

That was a reference to Gerald Ratner infamously describing some of his jewellery firms products as total crap.

Chief executive Michael O'Leary, who saw his company's shares fall by three percent knocking around 500million off its market value, admitted: 'It is clearly a mess'

The under-fire carrier has revealed the 2,024 routes which will be axed over the next six weeks, leaving passengers stranded or out of pocket

Mr Lewis, who founded moneysavingexpert.com, predicted the final compensation bill would be much higher than Ryanairs estimated 17.7million.

He said: This appears to be a totally self-inflicted injury from a company trying to turn around its reputation for treating its customers badly. The one thing going for Ryanair was that it had a reputation for getting people from A to B, usually on time.

So the damage to its brand is going to be huge. Anyone affected will think twice before booking with Ryanair  others will be more likely to fly with another airline if there is not much difference in price.

He said the Ratner moment could follow unless the airline got on top of the situation.

In an extraordinary press conference, Ryanair's boss was in agreement about the figures suggested in terms of his company's losses and said: 'Clearly there's a large reputational impact for which again I apologise. We will try to do better in future.'

'In terms of lost profitability we think it will cost us something of the order of up to about five million euros (4.4million) over the next six weeks and in terms of the EU261 compensation we think that will be something up to a maximum of 20 million euros but much depends on how many of the alternative flights our customers take up.'

Customers reacted furiously to the news with David Bushby saying: 'Ryanair is disgrace with no thought to care of passengers. Never heard anything like it. Ostracise now and sink O'Leary.'

Another, Dom Glover, accused the airline of ruining his wedding and took to Twitter to vent his anger.

Ryanair refuse to help family-of-four after cancelling their flight from Spain to Manchester and leaving them with nowhere to stay Ryanair told a family of four they would have to wait a week for a plane home and offered them no help with accommodation or costs after cancelling their flight. Stephen and Helen Smith, and Helens parents Stephen and Debbie Luckett, were appalled by their treatment when they turned up at Alicante airport on Saturday morning to fly back to Manchester after a two-week holiday in Spain. They had to pay almost 1,000 for seats on an alternative flight with Vueling to Edinburgh on Saturday evening, a hotel and a hire car to drive home to Stockport on Sunday. Stephen and Helen Smith (pictured), and Helens parents Stephen and Debbie Luckett, were appalled by their treatment when they turned up at Alicante airport on Saturday morning to fly back to Manchester after a two-week holiday in Spain Mr Smith has vowed never to fly with Ryanair again. The family was not contacted to say their flight had been cancelled before setting out for the airport on Saturday and last night had still not received any official communication from the company. Mr Smith, 33, his wife and his in-laws had paid 120 each for their return flights. He said that at the airport on Saturday they were offered a flight back to Manchester with Ryanair seven days later but no accommodation or allowances were offered. An option of being put on stand-by for a flight to East Midlands Airport came to nothing when it emerged stand-by seats were no longer available. Mr Smith said Ryanairs last idea was flying from other Spanish airports hundreds of miles away but without any options for transport. Advertisement

Ryanair will drop 40-50 flights a day over the next six weeks, leaving passengers stranded or out of pocket

He said: 'After Ryanair spoiled our wedding we will never book another Ryanair ticket again. Utter disgrace of a company deserves to be sued to hell.'

One passenger told BBC News: Ryanair left me stranded in Krakow and gave me no option to get home in a reasonable amount of time so I took matters into my own hands.

Ryanair's history of mishaps from disability discrimination to telling staff to watch their weight to save on fuel 2002: Ordered to pay more than 40,000 in damages to its one millionth customer after it broke a promise to give her free flights for life 2004: Announced 50p wheelchair levy on all passengers to pay for wheelchair assistance after a disabled man won landmark discrimination case against the firm 2008: Ordered to withdraw an advert featuring a model in school-girl style clothes and promising hottest back to school fares 2010: Boss Michael OLeary suggests his planes could fly without a co-pilot to save money - instead training a flight attendant to help land a plane in an emergency 2011: Advert promoting tickets to place in the sun banned as destinations had temperatures of between zero and 14 degrees centigrade 2012: Spokesman says staff are encouraged to watch their weight to help save on aircraft fuel costs 2015: UK judge rules that Ryanairs attempts to slash time limit for passengers claiming compensation for delayed flights falls foul of European law 2015: Ryanair has to deny its own statement which said board had approved plans for flights to US 2017: Accused by passengers of deliberately splitting up families who refuse to pay extra to choose their seats. July, 2017: Infuriates passengers by claiming families are making their toddlers drag suitcases on planes to avoid paying fees to put baggage in hold September, 2017: Says passengers will have to pay for priority boarding if they want to take a second item of hand luggage on board 2017: Briefly suspends package holiday booking service just two months after launch  blaming illegal screen-scrapers 2017: As of today, optional fees listed on its website include 60 to carry a musical instrument, 160 for a name change, 100 for missing a flight, 35 to carry golf clubs, 50 to check in at the airport. Advertisement

'I spent 500 on tickets for myself, my partner and my mother to get back to London on another carrier.

Were about halfway through whats going to be an all-day journey involving a taxi and two planes and its been a really frustrating experience. Frustrating and costly.

Another added: Pretty disappointed about it. Even if they gave me a weeks longer notice it would have been much better for me but they didnt.

'They texted me the evening before the morning I was supposed to fly out so, yeah, pretty disappointed.

Mr O'Leary said: 'If they're not satisfied with the alternative flights offered they can have a full refund and they will all be entitled to their EU261 compensation entitlements.

'We will not be trying to claim exceptional circumstances.

'This is our mess-up. When we make a mess in Ryanair we come out with our hands up.

'We try to explain why we've made the mess and we will pay compensation to those passengers who are entitled to compensation, which will be those flights that are cancelled over the next two weeks.'

Mr O'Leary insisted the airline is 'not short of pilots' as he explained the reason behind the cancellations.

He said: 'What we have messed up is the allocation of holidays and trying to over-allocate holiday during September and October, while we're still running most of the summer schedule, and taking flight delays because of principally air traffic control and weather disruptions.'

Some have alleged the airline is trying to steer customers away from claiming compensation by not making the offer clear on its website.

It tells passengers: 'We offer you two options to choose from: 1. Apply for a refund 2. Change your Cancelled Flight'.

However, Ryanair fails to inform them it is required to pay 250 to 400 under EU rules, nor the obligation to pay for flights on other airlines 'at the earliest opportunity'.

It does have a link outlining the EU regulation at the bottom of the page and only travellers who follow the link and read the small print will be able to see this.

Paul Charles, former communications director at Virgin Atlantic, has slammed the move.

He said: 'It's misleading to give customers only half the true picture.

'They are entitled to EU compensation because of the cancellations so why aren't Ryanair being upfront? It smacks of the Ryanair of old.'

Aviation minister Lord Callanan has demanded that Ryainair pays compensation to customers as soon as possible.

He told the Times: 'We expect all airlines to fulfil their obligations to their customers and do everything possible to notify them well in advance of any disruption to their journey.

'In the event of any disruption or cancellation, airlines must ensure customers are fully compensated and every effort is made to provide alternative travel arrangements.'

Rory Boland, travel editor of consumer group Which?, said the airline must arrange alternative flights or provide a full refund.

The 2,024 flights cancelled by Ryanair: Check here to see if you have been affected by the scandal Advertisement

Ryanair suddenly removed 160 scheduled services to destinations across Europe on Fridays furious (stock photo)

Ryanair will drop 40-50 flights a day over the next six weeks, leaving passengers stranded or out of pocket

Ryanair chief marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said the company will 'continue to send regular updates' to passengers.

The airline explained there will be a two per cent reduction in its 2,500 daily scheduled flights until the end of October.

Ryanair also said a 'slightly higher number' of flights were cancelled this weekend, and it will bring in additional standby aircraft to help restore punctuality.

A spokesman said the number of flights delayed or cancelled was 'unacceptable'.

Ryanair chief marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said the company will 'continue to send regular updates' to passengers

Some travellers said last-minute cancellations had left them out-of-pocket due to non-refundable accommodation costs, or with no choice but to book expensive alternative flights or transport.

Others said they had been left stranded in their holiday destination and many urged Ryanair to publish a list of all flight cancellations.

The vast majority of UK cancellations affected Stansted and some Dublin flights were also dropped.

Writing on Ryanair's Facebook page, Lucy Dwyer said she is due to travel on Thursday and needs to know if the flight will go ahead.

She wrote: 'It's three days before the flight. Can you tell me before I book airport transfers? This is an absolute joke. My anxiety is through the roof! Thanks Ryanair.'

Another passenger, Lizzie Gayton, said she had to spend almost 700 to get home on Sunday after her flight from Lisbon to London Stansted was cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice.

'You weren't able to offer me another flight in time for me to get back for work,' she wrote.

'It is lucky that I had a credit card on me and don't have six kids to pay for! It is outrageous to think you are treating paying customers like this.'

Harriet Kathryn Ross wrote: 'What they need to do is confirm and publish a schedule of which flights will be cancelled over the next six weeks... it's wrong to leave people in suspense at the last minute. It's not fair.'
An author and researcher whose relatives claimed to be abducted by aliens in one of the most famous UFO stories of the last 60 years says she has key evidence proving extra-terrestrials exist.

Barney and Betty Hill said they saw a UFO as they were driving through rural New Hampshire, USA.

Their niece Kathleen Marden was just 13 at the time but began researching the incident many years later for a biography of the couple.

A pink substance on Mrs Hill's dress and spot marks on the car boot are evidence of the 1961 abduction, the Florida-based writer told the Examiner in her first ever British interview.

The self-proclaimed 'Ufologist' was speaking at the UFO Truth magazine conference in Holmfirth, west Yorkshire, which ran this weekend.

She said her aunt and uncle were credible witnesses whose story only went public when a journalist breached their confidence.

'I believe there was an abduction,' she said.

'When I began the investigation I was as unbiased as I could be.

'I did analysis of Betty and Barneys statement when they were on the (alien) craft, being taken and then released.

'My analysis is that the experience was real.'

Barney and Betty Hill, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens in rural New Hampshire, pictured with their dog Desley

After speeding away from the scene, the couple claim to have found themselves 35 miles south with little memory of how they'd ended up there.

They described details of a disc-shaped ship while under hypnosis, with Mr Hill recalling eight to 10 beings who were 'somehow not human'.

Mrs Marden said: 'They were dressed in black shiny uniforms...Barney believed they had a plan to capture him.

'Something started to drop down out of the craft. He ran back screaming to Betty that they had to get out of there or they would be captured.'

Author Kathleen Marden said at the UFO conference that physical evidence confirms her aunt and uncle were telling the truth

The couple sped away from the scene but later found themselves 35 miles further south with little memory of what had happened in the interim period.

Mrs Marden is convinced their account is not a hoax and called on sceptics to scrutinise the evidence.

'The scientists who investigated the case said Betty and Barney were honest and mentally healthy,' she said.

'They were upstanding members of their community.

'I think people should look at the evidence instead of speculating.'
Gillian Turner collapsed onto a desk and needed first-aid from court staff after Judge Alan Johns QC ruled against her in a claim against her former partner, Michael Durant

A devastated mother dramatically passed out in court after losing a legal battle for a half share of her property tycoon ex-boyfriend's business.

Shocked Gillian Turner collapsed onto a desk and needed first-aid from court staff after Judge Alan Johns QC ruled against her.

The former receptionist had sued her ex, Michael Durant, 61, claiming he reneged on promises to marry her and cut her into his property empire.

She claimed his business - Lodge House Ltd - was worth a fortune when he promised her a 50% stake during a conversation at their 1.1 million Hertfordshire home.

But the judge said Miss Turner 'clearly did not trust' her ex and it was 'hard to believe' that she wouldn't have got his promise in writing.

There was a 'complete absence' of a single document to back her up and it was 'inherently improbable' that he made the promise, the judge found.

Mr Durant, a former bricklayer, and Miss Turner, were in a 'stormy relationship' from the late-1980s to 2014, Central London County Court heard.

They had a son together and, in 2004, moved from Enfield to Cuffley, Hertfordshire, because of the area's 'better schools'.

Miss Turner claimed his business was by then probably worth millions, but told the judge that their relationship was 'always on the rocks'.

Her ex-boyfriend Michael Durant insists he did not promise her a slice of his property firm

She said she put her 200,000 life savings into buying their new home and asked him to match that.

But Mr Durant told her he needed cash to grow his business and instead promised to give her half his company, she claimed.

'He was saying how this was a new start for us and how much he loved me. He also said we are going to get married.

'I always lived in hope that we would stay together. I thought it was forever,' she added.

'I'm not sure as to the company's value, but he said things were doing very well, he had lots of rental property, he was buying lots of land, and building seven bungalows, and they were going to sell for 250,000 each.'

But Mr Durant denied that there had 'been any such conversation' or that he would ever have given away half of his company.

The legal wrangle centred on a home the former couple bought together in Hertfordshire

Judge Johns said it was 'surprising' that there was a 'complete absence' of any documents to back up Miss Turner's claim.

'That there is no trace of the agreement in documents...is particularly striking in circumstances where Miss Turner clearly did not trust Mr Durant,' he added.

'It is hard to believe, with that lack of trust, that she would have simply rested on his word to transfer the business without getting anything in writing'.

Judge Alan Johns QC said there was a 'complete absence' of documents to back up Miss Turner's claim

Ruling that 'no such promise was made,' he added that there was 'no imbalance' between the couple, as Mr Durant would be paying the 250,000 mortgage.

'Driven and ambitious' Mr Durant treated his business as his 'top priority' and it was 'most unlikely he would agree to part with half of it'.

Describing his account as 'reliable', the judge added: 'I reject Miss Turner's evidence that Mr Durant promised marriage.'

Miss Turner was ordered to pay the legal costs of the case, which will run into tens of thousands of pounds.

Mr Durant earlier told the judge he had forked out about 180,000 paying the mortgage on their home.

He said he was 'the sole breadwinner' and he was 'quite sure' that the crucial conversation 'never took place.'
Advertisement

The US has flown stealth fighters and advanced bombers over the Korean peninsula as a show of force in the wake of North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers participated in the live-fire exercise to 'demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats', South Korea's defence ministry said.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 before launching a missile over Japan last Friday and inflaming tensions in the region.

North Korea, meanwhile, said the latest round of UN sanctions imposed upon it represent 'the most vicious, unethical and inhumane act of hostility' and are an attempt to 'physically exterminate the people' living in the Stalinist autocracy.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers participated in the flight to 'demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats', the South Korean defence ministry said. Pictured: Four US F-35Bs dropping GBU-32 bombs over the Pilsung Firing Range in Gangwon-do, South Korea

Big beast: A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber drops an MK-84 bomb during the live-fire training mission. The show of force comes after North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test and launched a missile over Japan

Hit: A bomb explodes on a target at the training ground in South Korea. The US increasing pressure on the dictatorship, with UN Ambassador Nikki Haley warning it could be 'destroyed' if it continues to test missiles

The US jets few alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters (pictured) as part of 'routine' training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to 'improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies'

Tensions flared again early this month when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device. Pictured: The bombers and fighters over South Korea today

Air armada: The impressive show of force was designed to demonstrate the strength of the American-South Korean alliance against North Korea

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In also spoke by phone on Saturday and vowed to exert 'stronger pressure' on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a 'path of collapse.' Pictured: The planes over South Korea today

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster said the US would 'have to prepare all options' if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive. Pictured: The training mission today

Pictured: U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers flying with F-35B fighter jets and South Korean Air Force F-15K fighter jets

The previous such flights were on August 31, when aircraft from the two nations practised a precision-bombing mission with live shells (pictured)

The US jets flew alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of 'routine' training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to 'improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies'.

Today's flyovers charted a course across the Korean Peninsula and practised attacks by releasing live weapons at a firing range in South Korea, the U.S. Pacific Command said in a statement.

The U.S. warplanes also conducted formation training with Japanese fighter jets over waters near the southern island of Kyushu, according to the Pacific Command.

The previous such flights were on August 31, when aircraft from the two nations practised a precision-bombing mission with live shells.

North Korea said the more sanctions the United States and its allies impose on it, the faster it will move to complete its nuclear plans.

The reclusive nation's official KCNA news agency said today the U.N. Security Council sanctions represent 'the most vicious, unethical and inhumane act of hostility to physically exterminate the people of the DPRK, let alone its system and government'.

The U.N. Security Council unanimously passed a U.S.-drafted resolution a week ago mandating tougher new sanctions against Pyongyang that included banning textile imports and capping.

The US is increasing pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be 'destroyed' if it refused to end its 'reckless' weapons drive.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has launched a trio of missiles in recent weeks and tested a bomb that was its most powerful to date (file photo)

This photo made available by the North Korean state news shows a test-fire of the Hwasong-14 ICBM at an undisclosed location in North Korea in July

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un watches the launch of a Hwasong-12 missile in this undated photo released by North Korea

The subject is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone on Saturday and vowed to exert 'stronger pressure' on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a 'path of collapse.'

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital - and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South - vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster said the US would 'have to prepare all options' if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.

Donald Trump has taunted 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong-un about the 'long gas lines forming in North Korea' as he claims the UN sanctions on oil are beginning to bite

The president also taunted 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong-un about the 'long gas lines forming in North Korea' as he claimed UN sanctions on oil are beginning to bite.

Trump tweeted the jibe at the dictator after he and South Korean President Moon Jae-in discussed the escalating threat posed by North Korea Saturday night.

'I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night,' he tweeted. 'Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!'

Trump tweeted the jibe at the dictator after he and South Korean President Moon Jae-in discussed the escalating threat posed by North Korea Saturday night

State media on Saturday quoted Kim Jong-un as saying that North Korea's final goal 'is to establish the equilibrium of real force with the U.S. and make the U.S. rulers dare not talk about military option' for the North.

Alarmed by North Korea's advancing weapons programs, many conservatives in South Korea have called for the reintroduction of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in the South. But the liberal-leaning government of President Moon Jae-in said it has no intention of requesting that the U.S. bring back such weapons.

South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo told lawmakers on Monday that it is 'not proper' to reintroduce U.S. nuclear weapons. He previously said the idea should be 'deeply considered' by the allies, inflaming already-heated debate on the issue.
A beer festival held every year in Malaysia has been scrapped following complaints by Islamist groups who called it 'western' and 'un-Islamic', it has emerged.

The event, called 'Better Beer Festival 2017', had been planned for the first weekend in the country's capital Kuala Lumpur.

But an application by organisers was rejected amid warnings it would turn the city into 'the biggest centre of vice in Asia'.

A beer festival held every year in Malaysia has been scrapped following complaints by Islamist groups who called it 'western' and 'un-Islamic', it has emerged

There are plenty of beer drinkers among the sizable Chinese and Indian minorities, but protests against events deemed to be 'western' and unIslamic - such as concerts and festivals involving alcohol - are common in Muslim-majority Malaysia and are usually led by the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS).

The group warned the event could lead to criminal acts, free sex and rape.

'We can't bear it if Kuala Lumpur is known by the world as the biggest centre of vice in Asia,' PAS central committee member Riduan Mohd Nor was cited as saying in the Malay Mail Online.

'It is something that is shameful for an Islamic country like Malaysia.'

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) said in a short statement on Monday that it has rejected the application for a permit by the organisers the event, which would have entered its sixth year.

'If the organisers continue with the event without DBKL's approval, action will be taken in accordance to existing laws,' city hall said.

The event, called 'Better Beer Festival 2017', had been planned for the first weekend in the country's capital Kuala Lumpur

Mybeer (M) Sdn Bhd, the company organising the event, said in a separate statement that they were informed by DBKL officials that the decision was made 'due to the political sensitivity surrounding the event'.

A member of PAS' central committee, Riduan Mohd Nor, said in a statement on September 10 that there is no guarantee that such events would not lead to criminal acts, rape and free sex.

Opponents of the beer festival also launched a campaign on Facebook to block the event.

Around 6,000 people had been expected to attend the two-day festival, which would have featured craft beers from at least 11 countries, according to Facebook posts by the organisers and local news reports.
Advertisement

These never-before-seen photos reveal the thousands of jubilant spectators welcoming home HMS Invincible as she returned from the Falklands War, 35 years ago.

A flotilla of boats adorned with red, white and blue bunting set out to greet the mammoth 19,500-ton warship and people, young and old, took any vantage point they could find to watch her return. It was so hot that many people went shirtless or just wore swimming shorts as they perched on roofs along Portsmouth Harbour to watch the aircraft carrier come in on Friday, September 17, 1982.

HMS Invincible had left the port on April 5, and in the months which passed some 258 British servicemen were killed, and six other ships sunk.

Chris Bonass, 65, a former TV cameraman, spent the day watching the celebrations and recalled an unforgettable atmosphere as he took these photos.

He said: 'I got up early and went to the Round Tower, in Portsmouth Harbour. I stayed there all day until the ship came in. It was a bit hazy because some of the smaller boats had fired off red flares and the sky was pink.

'There would have been a couple of miles of seafront where people are normally sunbathing which was jam-packed with spectators. Families brought their young children, everyone had little flags. It was a great atmosphere.'

These never-before-seen photos reveal the thousands of jubilant spectators welcoming home HMS Invincible as she returned from the Falklands War, 35 years ago. The crowds lined the shores and walls of Portsmouth Harbour, waving the Union flag

To mark the 35th anniversary of the HMS Invincible returning to Portsmouth after the Falkland's conflict, amateur photographer Chris Bonass has released this previously unseen picture of the homecoming

HMS Invincible had left the port on April 5, and in the months which passed some 258 British servicemen were killed, and six other ships sunk

A flotilla of boats adorned with red, white and blue bunting set out to greet the mammoth 19,500-ton warship

Union flags and balloons were held up in celebration as HMS Invincible arrived back home at Portsmouth Harbour

The crowds and flotilla created a sea of red, white and blue as the victorious vessel made its way through Portsmouth Harbour

It was so hot that many people went shirtless or just wore swimming shorts as they perched on roofs along the Portsmouth Harbour to watch the aircraft carrier come in on Friday, September 17, 1982
A family who saved up for 12 months to go on holiday were denied their dream trip when Ryanair cancelled their flight - 45 minutes before boarding.

The Roffee family were due to fly to Spain to celebrate Simon's 30th birthday when they were told at the gate in departures that their flight was grounded.

Kellie, 35, and her family had scrimped and saved for the 2,105 trip and stayed at home throughout the summer to afford the flights and four-star hotel stay.

Since ruining their plans on Tuesday last week Ryanair have refused to even apologise to the family, who remain out of pocket.

The Roffee family were due to fly to Spain to celebrate the 30th birthday of Simon (left) when they were told at the gate in departures that their flight was grounded

Kellie and Simon were due to go away with Casey, 15, Ella, 12, Ryan, 9, and Amelia-Rose, 5.

They wasted their whole day at Leeds Bradford Airport before driving back home to Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire.

Kellie said: 'We normally go away for a weekend camping and we couldn't do it because we were saving up for this holiday; we won't be getting a holiday this year.

'We were waiting around the airport, the kids were really excited, we were sat in the VIP lounge and we heard this tannoy and they asking for everyone to go to gate four.

'We were really excited thinking we were going to get there and they locked the doors and they said nobody was going anywhere.

'It was 45 minutes before boarding, people were kicking off and they were really angry.

Kellie, a housewife and Simon, a maintenance worker for Lincoln Council, were promised a full refund from the airline as well as compensation

'One woman was having a panic attack and was crying, we asked Ryanair if they were prepared to pay for another flight and they said that was absolutely not going to happen.

'We were at the airport from 11am until 6pm, we wasted the whole day there.

'I feel really bad like I have deprived my children of a holiday, the kids are devastated, absolutely distraught, the next morning my Amelia-Rose came in and asked us "are we off on holiday today then?".

'We've had no apology or anything from Ryanair.'

Kellie, a housewife and Simon, a maintenance worker for Lincoln Council, were promised a full refund from the airline as well as compensation.

The family paid 495 for the flights and 1,500 to stay at a four-star hotel

The family paid 495 for the flights and 1,500 to stay at the four-star Hotel Rocamarina as well as shelling out cash on children's holiday clothes.

Ryanair are cancelling up to 50 flights-a-day for the next six weeks after it failed to correctly plan the pilots holiday rota.

The cancellations could affect up to almost 300,000 passengers who were offered alternative flights or refunds.

Kellie added: 'We normally go for a week with the kids so next year we would like to go for two weeks somewhere really nice, somewhere a little bit more expensive.

'Amelia-Rose was crying because she was scared, there was a bloke swearing and the police had to come and he almost got arrested.

'We had bought all the holiday clothes and everything as well, so we have lost money and next summer the clothes won't fit them.

'My husband was coming with us and it was his 30th birthday. We had only had one day out throughout the entire summer holidays and that was to Flamingo Land.

'As a parent I feel like I have I have failed my children, Ryanair offered us a flight on the 18 to come back on the 19, but even if we took the flight we would not have arrived until 10pm and we would have had to leave the hotel by 11am the next morning.

'It was ridiculous, they just said "sorry, that's all we can offer you".'

Ryanair told Kellie that the 495 flights were refunded back to On The Beach but the travel agent have claimed it will take 28 working days to return the cash.

Kellie said: 'Obviously we were going to rely on getting that money back it was meant to be back in the account this week.

'We were going to take the kids away for the weekend, for a couple of days, and we're not going to be able to do that so I'm going to have to let the kids down again.

'We were expecting all that money and I just feel like crying, none of this is my fault and I end up spending half the day on the phone and they are rude to me.

'If we wanted to book a last minute deal and fly off straight away we cant do that because they haven't paid us.'

A Ryanair Spokesperson told MailOnline: 'This flight from Leeds Bradford to Malaga was regrettably cancelled due to a French Air Traffic Control Strike.

'The customers in question have been fully refunded. Ryanair sincerely apologised to all customers affected by this French ATC strike, which was completely beyond our control.'
Fishing has been brought to new heights in a video taken by two paragliders casting their lines into the Black Sea while drifting 500 feet in the air near northern Turkey.

The two men are seen hanging in the air above a coastal area with a picnic table and bait bucket sandwiched between them.

The tandem, including Kadir Mert who shot the video, manage to catch four fish between them.

Paragliding is an extreme sport and hobby where a pilot sits in a harness attached to a parachute type net, or wing.

The wind is caught in this wing and allows for pilots to lift into the air, sometimes at altitudes of thousands of metres.

But rarely does the popular activity get paired with fishing.

The tandem fliers decided to try out a new fishing technique and are seen in the video attempting to catch a bite from the water below.

It appeared to be somewhat successful as they are believed to have caught four fish on their excursion - it is unknown how long they were up in the air for.

Paraglider Mr Mert is a Turkish software engineer.

Paragliders Kadir and Tunahan are seen gliding over 500 feet in the air as they cast their lines into the Black Sea below

With a bait bucket hanging off the equipment and a cup sat on a picnic table between them, the two men film themselves trying to get a bite

Fishing and paragliding don't typically go hand in hand but these two trendsetters managed to catch four fish
Magda Szubanski has revealed her heartache at the fact her late mother was unable to cast a vote in the gay marriage ballot.

The comedian, who lost her mum Margaret earlier this month, broke down as she told A Current Affair she wished the matriarch could have seen her gain the right to marry.

'I'm really sad that she died before seeing me have the same rights as her other two children,' Magda said.

Scroll down for video

Magda Szubanski (pictured) has revealed her heartache at the fact her late mother was unable to cast a vote in the gay marriage ballot

The comedian lost her mum Margaret (pictured) earlier this month and broke down as she told A Current Affair she wished the matriarch could have seen her gain the right to marry

The Kath and Kim star made a point of highlighting her mother's acceptance of her sexuality and how 'important' the issue of marriage equality had been to her.

'This is an old Catholic woman you know... she'd never even met any gay people before having a gay daughter,' Magda said.

'(But) the thing with my mum was that her acceptance, actually, and support of marriage equality came from her Catholicism, it wasn't at odds with it.'

Her mother passed away on September 4 at the age of 93, with Magda taking to Instagram in the days after to share a heartfelt message with fans.

'It was the hardest day of my life but seeing the church full of family and friends who loved her and us gave me such strength,' she wrote following the funeral.

'She did not live a big life. But there was a big life in her...She performed the millions of small, seemingly unnoteworthy acts of caring that together comprise the magnum opus of a mother's love.'

Her mother passed away on September 4 at the age of 93, with Magda taking to Instagram in the days after to share a heartfelt message with fans

The Kath and Kim star made a point of highlighting her Catholic mother's acceptance of her sexuality and how 'important' the issue of marriage equality had been to her

In the interview Magda also touched on the personal side of the campaign and the bullying that had occurred on both sides.

She revealed that she had been called everything from a 'pervert to a Nazi to the gay Taliban.'

But it did not stop her from hitting the streets of Melbourne this weekend to spearhead the 'Yes' campaign's Get Out The Vote rally.

With postal votes mailed out across Australia, she championed people to vote for equality.

'I was raised in a family where my parents were married for 58 years and I would hope if I met the woman of my dreams, that I could have that same institution to support me,' she said.

Voters have until November 7 to return their ballots, with a result expected to be announced by the Australian Bureau of Statistics by mid-November.

The interview came just a day after Magda hit the streets of Melbourne to spearhead the 'Yes' campaign's Get Out The Vote rally
A controversial app which lets people rent a sex doll for 34 a day has been shut down due to 'negative social influence'.

The news came only four days after the app, called 'Touch', was launched in Beijing, China.

Last Thursday, the developer behind the app unveiled five silicone models ranging from Wonder Woman to a schoolgirl as it introduced the rental service to the public.

Scroll down for video

The app, called Touch, got shut down just days after it was launched in Beijing, China

The app allowed clients to rent a used sex doll and the order would be delivered to their home. The fee is 34 a day and the company guarantees to change the 'critical parts' every time

A spokesperson from Touch had said that the company would replace the 'critical parts' of the sex dolls for every new customer.

However in a social media post today, the start-up company announced that it had decided to shut down the app.

The company said it had been investigated and fined by the authorities.

Touch apologised for causing 'negative social influence' in the lead up to the 'two sessions', the most important annual political meetings for the Communist Party of China.

The Chinese central government has apparently stepped up its censorship of public opinions as it prepares for the 'two sessions', which are set to be held in Beijing later this year.

The 'two sessions' stand for the annual plenary sessions of the National Peoples Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference.

Touch also explained that when it started developing the app six months ago, the company's goal was to help more people experience fun and introduce the concept of sex dolls to the general public.

The company said it would strive to step up its social responsibility in the future and explore the fun of life 'in a positive way'.

Touch, a company based in Fujian, south-east China, launched its service in the Chinese capital on September 14.

The company required customers to pay a deposit of 8,000 yuan (914) before hiring a life-size sex doll for 298 yuan (34) a day. The dolls would be delivered to the customer's address.

A spokesperson of Touch told Sina.com last week that the service was aimed at young white-collar workers aged from 20 to 35 years old.

The sex dolls were set in five nationalities featuring Chinese, Russian, Korean, and Hong Kong versions, as well as a copy of Wonder Woman who came armed with sword and shield.

All silicone sex dolls were full adult size and weighed at 29.8kg (4.7 stone).

They were also equipped with voice and heating function.

Customers could customise the doll's hair styles, eye colour and skin colour. In addition, they could pay to upgrade the doll so it would come with accoutrements like handcuffs and whips.

Special costumes such as nurse and school uniform were at an additional cost of 35 yuan (4).

(From left to right) The Touch app offers sharing sex doll models themed after Hong Kong, Russia, Greece, Korea and Paradise Island

Clients can choose their favourite hair styles, eye colour and skin colour for free (left). For additional upgrade, costumes and accoutrements are at additional costs (right)

At the app's launch, the spokesperson also told the reporter that all sex dolls would be sanitised by professional cleaners for five times for every new customer.

The company also guaranteed to change the doll's 'critical parts' every time after it is used.

The market price of a life-size silicone sex doll is up to 10,000 yuan (1,142) in China, according to the company.

According to hksilicon.com, Touch had around 53 million users on its app and 45 per cent of them were people in their 20s.

It was said that 30 per cent of their customers were female.

The app was available to be downloaded in Apple's app store on September 11, and it contained online forums and a shopping page for sex toys.

Users of Weibo, a Twitter-like social media site, were apparently worrying about the hygiene issues of the sharing sex dolls when the app was revealed.

'What if the sex dolls got infected with AIDS?' One user, called 'puntielim', asked.

'So this is not disposable?' Queried web user 'ariesscorpio', who was surprised that the dolls would be cleaned and reused.

Some other people took it as a joke and asked for a male version of sex dolls.

'Kuailiaoba' commented: 'When is sharing boyfriend coming? That's a bit of gender inequality, is it?'

And '1346_th' questioned what else is left to share in the Chinese market.
A father-of-five who sexually abused a toddler when he was a teenager has avoided jail after a judge ruled it would 'serve no purpose'.

John Mason, 51, was aged between 14 and 16 when he attacked the boy in Liverpool, during the early 1980s.

He admitted an historic offence of indecent assault, which today would be classed as oral rape - and carry a maximum life sentence.

John Mason, 51, was aged between 14 and 16 when he ssexually abused a toddler in Liverpool during the early 1980s, Liverpool Crown Court heard

However, he walked free from Liverpool Crown Court, after judge Denis Watson, QC, ruled he could only hand out a 'ridiculously short' sentence.

Offenders must be punished under the law at the time the crimes were committed.

At the time of Mason's sick assault, the maximum sentence was just three months.

Judge Watson said would have given Mason credit for his guilty plea, meaning in reality he would spend just weeks behind bars.

The court heard that when the victim was a teen, Mason confessed to him but made no report to police.

During the abuse, the man recalled that when Mason took off both their clothes, he said: 'I'll do it to you and you do it to me.'

Robert Dudley, prosecuting, said: 'He was left scared and confused and suffered nightmares and bed-wetting.'

Ahead of a trip to Scotland - where Mason now lives - the victim told his girlfriend he had been orally raped.

He suffered from depression and later also disclosed to his GP that he had been molested as a child.

He was referred for counselling and explained how he had been left 'frightened and ashamed'.

He said said he feared he would not be believed and suffered nightmares for 10 years.

The man said: 'Having to live and cope with what has happened to me has been and still is an everyday struggle.'

Having to live and cope with what has happened to me has been and still is an everyday struggle. John Mason's victim

Mason told an ex-wife in 1995 that he had forced his young victim to perform oral sex on him.

In 2010 the victim's mother contacted police and told officers Mason was a danger to children.

Mason then came to visit his daughter in Liverpool and confessed to her that he had abused the boy.

A complaint was made to police in 2015, which led to him being interviewed in 2016, when he made no comment.

Mason, now living in Banff, Aberdeenshire, was questioned in February this year, but again made no comment.

Prosecutors were unable to say whether Mason was 14, 15, or 16 at the time, due to uncertainty over when the rape happened.

A defendant's age affects sentences available and when there is doubt, the benefit is given to the accused.

Under the old Criminal Justice Act 1961, the maximum sentence a 14-year-old could receive for this offence was three months detention.

Mr Dudley said the court also had to take into account his lack of previous convictions, the remorse shown by his confessions and 'the fact that this case would not have come to light without the first of those confessions'.

Nicholas Walker, defending, said Mason was 'deeply sorry' and urged the judge to spare him jail, given the short amount of time he would spend in prison.

He said: 'There is only one victim in this case but it is evident from everything the court has read that this single incident in the 1980s still haunts both men.'

Judge Denis Watson, QC, handed Mason a three-year community order and told him to sign on the Sex Offenders Register for five years.

He said: 'When dealing with non-recent offences, no sentence can be passed on an offender which is greater than could be passed had you been dealt with at the time. The maximum sentence I can pass on you is one of three months in prison.

'Although you committed a grave offence which has had a lasting impact, you too are wracked with remorse for what you have done.

'There is no real purpose imposing what would seem to everybody to be a ridiculously short sentence.'
Theresa May (pictured greeting counterpart Justin Trudeau in Canada today) is gearing up to offer the EU a divorce payment worth up to 30bn in a bid to break the talks deadlock

Brexiteers voiced anger today amid claims the Prime Minister is gearing up to offer the EU a divorce payment worth up to 30billion.

Senior Tories believe Theresa May will use a speech in Florence on Friday to seek to break the deadlock in negotiations - confirming that the UK is ready to continue contributing to the EU budget during a two-year transition period.

A source said the Cabinet was almost unanimous in its support for the proposal, with only Boris Johnson arguing for a shorter transition and lower payments.

The Foreign Secretary is said to be unhappy at any deal that would pay Brussels more than 10billion. The EU has tabled demands for as much as 90billion.

But Mrs May could face a much tougher task getting the proposals for a divorce payment past Tory backbenchers.

Former Cabinet minister John Redwood insisted this morning there should be no payments after we formally leave in 2019 - and suggested handing over money for access to markets would be illegal.

He told the Today programme: 'Everybody knows that it is an awful lot of money so wouldn't it be more productive about how we spend that money when we have come out and also to discuss the point that many of us don't think there is any moral, political or legal reason to go on paying them, once we have left.

'Indeed I think it would be illegal to go on paying them once we have left.

'I find it very odd to find out how many people there are around government, official circles and advising government who seem to think the British people want to continue paying a lot of money to the EU, they just don't I can assure you.'

Mrs May, pictured shaking hands with Mr Trudeau in Ottawa today, is due to travel on to the UN in New York later

Mrs May and Mr Trudeau discussed issues including the potential for a post-Brexit trade deal when they met in Ottawa this afternoon

The PM (pictured in Canada today) is expected to be flanked by Cabinet ministers as she makes her offer to the EU on Friday, in an effort to show the government is united

EU leaders, including European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) have demanded that the UK agree a formula for calculating a final divorce bill

The PM is expected to be flanked by Cabinet ministers as she makes her offer to the EU on Friday, in an effort to show the government is united.

But there are growing fears of a split between ministers such as Chancellor Philip Hammond, who want to shadow the single market as closely as possible after Brexit, and the likes of Mr Johnson and Mr Gove, who prefer a looser Canada-style trade deal.

Meanwhile, Mrs May has moved to strengthen her grip over the talks by appointing Britain's top Brexit official to become her adviser on the EU.

Oliver Robbins will leave his post as permanent secretary at the Brexit Department to work for the PM.

He will still lead the UK's civil servants in the Brexit talks.

BRITAIN'S TOP BREXIT OFFICIAL TAKES UP NEW ROLE AS PM'S EU ADVISER Theresa May today strengthened her grip on the Brexit talks by appointing the Brexit Department's top civil servant to be her EU adviser. Oliver Robbins will leave his post as permanent secretary at the department to work directly for the PM. The move comes after reports Mr Robbins repeatedly clashed with with Brexit Secretary Davis Davis. He will still lead Britain's civil servants in the Brexit talks. Philip Rycroft, the current second permanent secretary at the Brexit ministry, will replace Mr Robbins. A No10 spokesman said the move would 'strengthen cross government coordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union'. But Lord Kerslake, the former head of the civil service, said he was 'surprised' at the move, which risks sending out a a message of chaos to Brussels. He told BBC Radio 4's World at One: 'What I worry about is the signal it send to business, and indeed the European Commission, about our organisation and capability.' He said the move was like 'rearranging the deckchairs' on the Titanic. Advertisement

It come after reports Mr Robbins repeatedly clashed with with Brexit Secretary Davis Davis.

Philip Rycroft, the current second permanent secretary at the Brexit ministry, will replace Mr Robbins.

A No10 spokesman said the move would 'strengthen cross government coordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union'.

EU leaders have demanded that the UK agree a formula for calculating a final divorce bill before negotiations on a future free-trade deal can begin.

Downing Street today refused to rule out paying the EU for access to markets after we leave - saying the issues were subject to negotiation.

First Secretary of State Damian Green  one of Mrs Mays allies  yesterday indicated the PM was preparing to make a serious offer this week.

Asked if payments would automatically end when Britain leaves the EU in 2019, Mr Green said: Lets see.

He added: I think that the other capitals of Europe, the governments and the commission I hope and expect will welcome what the Prime Minister has to say.

'Im not going to reveal any details of it, but because weve had these few months of negotiations you know we can see where the key points at issue are and they will be addressed in the Prime Ministers speech.

Mr Green said the UK would continue to pay into EU projects, including membership of the Europol crime-fighting organisation.

Eurosceptic Cabinet ministers had been initially suspicious of a transitional deal.

A senior Tory source said: Almost everyone now agrees there will have to be a transition and that we will have to pay a fee during it.

Boris Johnson, pictured greeting Donald Trump at the UN in New York today, is said to be pushing for a shorter transition deal and lower payments to the EU

Former Cabinet minister John Redwood said he did not believe there should be any payments to Brussels after we formally leave in 2019

Ollie Robbins has been shifted to become Downing Street's adviser on the EU, giving up his role as permanent secretary at the Brexit department. Mr Robbins is pictured second from right during talks with the EU team - which he will continue to attend

But Boris seems to be very much against any transition lasting longer than six months and opposed to paying anything for it.

French president Emmanuel Macron was first to table a proposal for continued payments during a transition, suggesting a minimum of 10billion a year over three years.

A Government source described the proposal as constructive, and Mrs May is expected to discuss the idea with Mr Macron in New York later this week.

The Governments legal advice states that the EU has no right to demand any money after the UK leaves in March 2019.

But some ministers, including Chancellor Philip Hammond, argue agreement on the principle could revive the possibility of starting trade negotiations next month.
Trent Thorburn is hoping to be released on bail as he appeals his four-year sentence for incest and perjury relating to his foster sister Tiahleigh Palmer.

Thorburn has been in custody since he was charged in September 2016 with having sex with the 12-year-old in the days before her death.

He was also charged with lying to a Crime and Corruption Commission hearing into the schoolgirl's alleged murder in June 2016.

The court heard Thorburn (pictured) admitted his sexual relationship with Tiahleigh in a Facebook messenger conversation with his cousin

The court heard Thorburn, then 18, had sex with Tiahleigh (pictured) at least once during the weeks leading up to her death in late October 2015

Following Tiahleigh's death, Thorburn repeatedly denied having had sex with her to police as well as denying he knew anything about her murder

Thorburn was sentenced in the Beenleigh District Court on Thursday to four years' jail after he pleaded guilty to four charges, including incest.

He was due to be released from prison on January 20 next year when his sentence is to be suspended for five years.

The 20-year-old is now seeking to be released on bail as he appeals his 'manifestly excessive' sentence.

Trent Thorburn, the foster brother of slain Queensland schoolgirl Tiahleigh Palmer, has admitted to having a sexual relationship with the 12-year-old

Mother of the murdered schoolgirl Cindy Palmer (second right), with friends and family outside the Beenleigh District Court

Police allege the 12-year-old was murdered by her foster father Richard Thorburn (pictured)

His bail application is set to be heard in the Brisbane Supreme Court on Friday.

Tiahleigh's body was found on the banks of a Gold Coast river on November 5, 2015, six days after she was allegedly murdered by her foster father Rick Thorburn.

Foster mother Julene Thorburn is due to be sentenced on November 3 for perjury and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The Thorburn's other son, Joshua, was sentenced in July to three months behind bars for lying to investigators.
Her journey from being a poverty-stricken single mother to the world's richest author has inspired girls and women around the world.

But when it comes to tackling the huge spiders that creep into her Scottish home, Harry Potter writer JK Rowling has admitted she is not as brave as her famous wizard character.

She tweeted a picture of the giant arachnid trapped beneath a large vase to her 12.6million followers this morning.

She added the message: 'I am a strong, independent woman. Also, thanks very much to my husband for dealing with this so I could go through the door it was blocking.'

Author JK Rowling confessed her husband had to tackle this huge spider at their home

The writer has been married to Dr Neil Murray since 2001 and they live together in Scotland

Her tweet caused hilarity among fans, with Zoel Hernandez replying: 'I'm a strong independent man, but I would not even get close to that sorry. I hate spiders.'

Another wrote: 'That thing... is huge,' to which the author replied: 'Thank you. My point exactly.'

Others tweeted Harry Potter memes, such as character Ron Weasley asking: 'Can we panic now?'

Some volunteered photos of their own brushes with spiders in recent weeks, with replies coming from around the world.

And others compared the creature to Aragog, the huge spider from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Ms Rowling wed her second husband Dr Neil Murray in 2001. She has since revealed the Scot has converted her to rugby.

The tweet pleased Rowling's many fans, who responded with Harry Potter-themed memes

Other fans around the world sent the author pictures of spiders they had seen in recent weeks

September is often a month when British homeowners face down massive spiders, with plunging temperatures outside sending spiders who have grown large over the summer scuttling inside for warmth.

Common house spiders can have a leg span of up to five inches (12cm), with females growing the largest.

Scientists last year named a newly-discovered species of spider Eriovixia Gryffindori after the house at Harry Potter's school Gryffindor.
As Hollywood's finest celebrated their wins or nursed their loses after the Emmy Awards Sunday night, there was one man who all the stars wanted to get their picture taken with - and no, it wasn't host Stephen Colbert.

Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer, who made a surprise appearance at the television awards show, was the belle of the ball, making even the most famous celebrities reach for their phones for a selfie.

Spicey seemed to be lavishing in the attention, as he rubbed shoulders with the likes of Alec Baldwin, Dolly Parton and James Corden.

The Hollywood Reporter, which spoke to Spicer on his way to the Governors Ball after party, said that the former Trump lackey 'couldn't walk two feet without being besieged by more photo requests'

'He could barely eat at the Governor's Ball, he was so popular,' a source told CNN.

Scroll down for video

Sean Spicer was the belle of the ball after the Emmy Awards on Sunday. He's pictured above with Alec Baldwin, who has portrayed President Trump on Saturday Night Live

Spicer also got a picture with Emmys host Stephen Colbert, who made several jabs at Trump throughout the night

The Late Late Show host James Corden went so far as to plant a kiss on Spicer at the awards show

Spicer made a surprise cameo at the 69th Emmys to mock his old boss, President Trump.

During the show, he was shelled out onto the stage on a White House-esq podium and re-created his now infamous Trump inauguration claim that it had the biggest attendance in history.

As he appeared 'Spicey' cracked: 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.'

Spicer was brought out to a surprised room full of celebrities whose jaws dropped when they saw the president's former mouth piece at the Microsoft Theater in LA.

As the former White House flack was wheeled offstage, Colbert said 'Thank you Melissa McCarthy!' a nod to the actress's fantastic impersonation of Spicer on Saturday Night Live.

Country music star Dolly Parton posed for pictures with Spicer at the Microsoft Theater, where the awards were held

But then Jane Fonda was quick to rush over with some rabbit ears in the background

Spicer appeared to have a lighthearted talk with LL Cool J at the Emmys

Spicer is pictured above with actor Michael Kelly, of House of Cards fame, at the Netflix Primetime Emmys party at NeueHouse

Spicer grins next to House of Cards star Gerald McRaney at the awards

He also enjoyed a conversation with Baldwin and Corden backstage

Playing nice with the sponsors: Spicer posed up with Matteo Lunelli, the CEO of a wine company that was sponsoring something at the event

Spicer pictured on the left with a publicist and on the right with a manager at Netflix

One reporter snapped multiple pictures of Spicer hamming it up after the Emmys

So social! He posed solo for the cameras at the Governors Ball

Time of his life! He also beamed while clutching a bottle of Fiji water backstage

And he waved the cameras leaving the parties

Along for the ride: Spicer brought his wife Rebecca with him

In his interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Spicer detailed how the appearance came together.

'I had a conversation with Stephen [Colbert] and his executive producer,'he said. 'They came up with a concept, and I thought it was kinda funny. I said Id be there.'

CNN reports that Colbert thought up the idea a few days before the telecast, wondering aloud if Spicer might be interested.

At the time, Spicer was in L.A. for an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

He briefly flew back to his home near Washington, DC and then returned to L.A. for a secret dress rehearsal before the big night.

Sources told CNN that the auditorium was mostly cleared so that Spicer could practice without word getting out.

After the appearance, Spicer said it was 'an honor' to attend.

'I have a lot of respect for folks who do what they do in film and on television, so its a real honor to be invited,' he said.

Spicer was wheeled out during Stephen Colbert's opening monologue at the Emmys, to the shock of celebrities sitting in the audience at the Microsoft Theater in LA Sunday

Stephen Colbert cracked that if Donald Trump had gotten an Emmy for 'The Apprentice' maybe he wouldn't have run for President

McCarthy was surprised to see her SNL 'doppelganger' wheeled onstage. She led the star-studded audience in their shock at the former press secretary's cameo

Veep star Anna Chlumsky's face summed up the audience's reaction as Spicer was wheeled onstage behind the podium

EVERY JOKE AND JAB AT TRUMP AT THE EMMYS Colbert's opening monologue took a more benevolent turn when he urged people to keep donations coming to those in need after hurricanes ravaged both Florida and Texas STEPHEN COLBERT 'Of course, there's no way anyone could possibly watch that much TV, other than the president, who seems to have a lot of time for that sort of thing. Hello sir, thank you for joining us! Looking forward to the tweets. 'We know that the biggest TV star of the last year is Donald Trump. No, we may not like it, but he's the biggest star. And you know, Alec Baldwin, obviously. You guys are neck and neck. And Alec, you're up against a lot of neck. 'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way. 'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story'. 'We all know that the Emmys mean a lot to Donald Trump because he was nominated multiple times for 'Celebrity Apprentice,' but he never won. Why didn't you give him an Emmy? I'll tell you this  if he had won an Emmy, I bet he wouldn't have run for president. So this is all your fault. I thought you people love morally compromised antiheroes. You like Walter White. 'And he never forgave you, and he never will. The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Camera pans to Meyers, with marbles falling out of his mouth). 'And even during the campaign, he wouldn't let it go. This actually happened, this exchange actually happened in the debates. (Goes to video showing Clinton mentioning Trump's Emmy loss in debate) 'But he didn't. Because unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote. Where do I find the courage to tell that joke in this room? Of course, what really matters to Donald Trump is ratings. He's got to have the big numbers, and I certainly hope we achieve that tonight. 'Unfortunately, at this point, we have no way of knowing how big our audience is. I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know? (Moment Sean Spicer comes out on podium). 'The Americans has hotter spies than the Russia inquiry, even treason's better on TV' In a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.' SEAN SPICER 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.' Sean Spicer in a nod to the former WH flack's now infamous claim President Trump's crowd was the largest in history.' COLBERT RESPONDS: 'Wow, that really soothes my fragile ego. I can understand why you'd want one of these guys around. Melissa McCarthy everyone, give it up! Beautiful.' 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Veep star Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song. 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.' ALEC BALDWIN 'I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,' Baldwin said while accepting the award for his portrayal of the President on SNL. 'Orange wig proved to be effective' birth control, cracked Baldwin during his acceptance speech after he said he and wife Hilaria haven't had a child in three years. JANE FONDA, LILY TOMLIN AND DOLLY PARTON 'Back in 1980 in that movie (9 to 5), we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot. 'And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.' DONALD GLOVER Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list' during one of his Emmys acceptance speeches. 'He's the reason I'm probably up here,' he added. Donald Glover accepts Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series and thanked the president for making blacks in America 'number one on the most oppressed list' JOHN LITHGOW 'First and foremost, I want to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life reminds us what courage and leadership in government looks like.' KUMAIL NANJIANI 'They (the nominees for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program) also celebrate people who frantically race across international borders, and those who can scale walls really, really quickly. In other words, the president's worst nightmare.' SETH MYERS The late night hoset took on physical comedy as Trump had previously called him 'marble mouthed' when he was hosting in 2014 on Twitter. The tweet flashed on screen as cameras cut to Meyers drooling marbles Advertisement

Spicer appeared after Colbert unleashed a blistering string of jabs about Trump, calling him a 'morally corrupt anti-hero,' a 'whiter Walter White', poking fun at his obsession with ratings and tweeting.

The Late Show host also performed a song which included the lyrics 'treason is better on TV', while flashing a shot of Trump and Vladimir Putin, and 'Imagine if your president was not beloved by Nazis'. He also took a shot at his failure to win the popular vote during the election.

Spicer and Colbert were joined by a long line of celebrities who criticized the president and his policies throughout the three-hour CBS broadcast, where politics was placed firmly in the spotlight.

Jane Fonda called him a bigot, Alec Baldwin ridiculed his failure to win an Emmy, Donald Glover accused him of oppressing black people and Julia Louis-Dreyfus made an impeachment joke.

This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world Sean Spicer

Politics even made its way into the winners. The Handmaid's Tale with took home six goings for its bleak portrait of an authoritarian America.

The glitzy ceremony in downtown Los Angeles - the first under the administration of President Donald Trump - was widely expected to have a strongly political flavor.

'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way,' Colbert began.

'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story.''

Colbert also jokingly scolded Emmy voters for not giving Trump an Emmy for 'The Apprentice,' posing that maybe if he had his own an Emmy he wouldn't have run for President.

'I thought you guys loved morally compromised antiheroes,' he said of Trump, then called him 'Walter Whiter,' in reference to the 'Breaking Bad' character who won several Emmys for Bryan Cranston.

He also hilariously noted: 'Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote.'

The awards show put Trump's seeming obsession with the Emmys front and center when they showed his 2012 tweet in which he shared his dismay over his reality show 'The Apprentice' not scoring the coveted golden statue

The president in 2012 vented his frustrations after his reality show The Apprentice did not get one of the coveted gold statues given at the Emmys.

Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote Stephen Colbert

'The Emmys are all politics, that's why, despite nominations, The Apprentice never won--even though it should have many times over,' Trump tweeted at the time.

During a spirited opening song with several celebrity appearances, Julia Louis-Dreyfus sang how nice it would be to have a president who 'was not beloved by Nazis.'

With Colbert chiming in 'Even treason's better on TV,' as an image flashes of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.

Later in a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.'

Marble mouthed 2014 Emmy host: Trump called Seth Meyers hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2012 when he was upset he didn't win an Emmy for 'The Apprentice.' Colbert flashed Trump's tweet as Meyers drooled marbles out of his mouth

Loser no more? Trump didn't win an Emmy for his show The Apprentice in 2014 taking to his perennial favorite platform Twitter to call Meyers 'very awkward with almost no talent'

Alec Baldwin smiled in the audience as Colbert cracked at the actor's impersonation of the president on SNL this season

Several celebrity presenters and those accepting awards decided to keep the spotlight on Trump, as the hits on his reign kept on coming later in the program.

The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Marbles fall out of Meyers' mouth).

Trump called Seth Meyers Emmy's hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2014.

Colbert started off by saying 'He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, ''That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!'' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth?'

Cameras cut to Meyers dribbling marbles out of his mouth in response.

Baldwin came to the stage accepting the Emmy and started off his speech by saying: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'

After its most-watched season in 23 years, 'Saturday Night Live' won nine Emmys, including best variety sketch series, for actress Kate McKinnon and for Melissa McCarthy's turn as Spicer.

Soon after Baldwin picked up the accolade, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton, came on stage to present an award and made a joke about their 1980s movie 9 to 5, at Trump's expense.

Tomlin and Fonda said in 1980 they didn't put up with a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss' and they won't today either, in a clear knock at Trump.

Donald Glover won his first Emmy win for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, making him the first black director to ever win the category.

He used the speech to make a jibe at the president.

Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list.'

Julia Louis Dreyfus who is starring in the hit show 'Veep' as President Selina Meyer on the HBO comedy, jested 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.'

The joke received a rousing applause from the fairly liberal Hollywood elite crowd.

Meanwhile, several celebrities walked the carpet wearing blue ribbons, but it wasn't a new trend.

Stars were showing their support for the American Civil Liberties Union and their 'Stand With the ACLU' initiative.
A teenager was killed when he was accidentally shot in the head by his own grandfather during a hunting trip.

The boy, 13, was shot as he bent over to pick up a bird that had been shot, near the small village Triaize, western France, on Sunday morning.

He was airlifted to a hospital 65 miles away, in Nantes, where he later died. An investigation has been launched into how the incident took place.

A teenager has been killed after he was accidentally shot in the head by his grandfather during a hunting trip on the opening weekend of France's season (stock image)

The boy's death is the second to take place on the opening weekend of France's hunting season after a 57-year-old man was killed when he fell into a ravine in the country's south western Alpes-Maritimes region on Saturday.

And in the Var region, in the south east, another man and his 12-year-old son were injured when they were hit by stray bullets. Their injuries were not fatal.

The incidents will likely fuel campaigns for a change in France's hunting laws.

The head of the Association for the Protection of Wild Animals (APWA), Pierre Athanaze, told The Local previously: 'Hunting needs to be stopped on Sundays, because this is the most dangerous day.

'There are more and more people heading out into the countryside on a Sunday, whether it's for walking, mountain biking or collecting mushrooms. We want an end to it.'
An elderly woman died three days after being sent home from hospital despite being unable to eat, walk or talk.

The family of Glenda Bunn, 79, has blasted a decision to declare her 'medically fit' to be discharged to her care home, which is being investigated by the NHS.

Ms Bunn, a retired manager for the London Underground's Northern Line, was admitted into Southend Hospital after suffering a stroke in January.

Her sister Patricia Putt, 72, said: 'It stinks; appalling is the only polite word I can use and it hurts.

The family of Glenda Bunn (pictured) has blasted a decision to declare her 'medically fit' to be discharged to her care home, which is being investigated by the NHS

'These two words, "medically fit", seem to be their excuse for chucking someone out of hospital because you cannot argue and that's it, out.

'When I saw her that morning she was still almost comatose, she hadn't been out of bed and she said to me they are sending me out today.

'I said to her no you cannot possibly be leaving so I went storming up to the nursing station and said Glenda tells me she's leaving and they said no.

'I went home but in the afternoon we got a phone call - it's decided she's medically fit and she's coming out today.

'I said I've seen her and they said no, we've decided she's medically fit.

'Despite being unable to eat or swallow any drink and despite the fact she was drifting in and out of consciousness and struggled to breathe, they said she was medically fit to be discharged.'

Glenda died in bed less than three days after her discharge to Dobsons House in Rayleigh, Essex.

'When we went to the home we were absolutely shocked, I just couldn't believe the state of her,' said Patricia.

'Less than 72 hours after her discharge the care home called me to come quickly but I got stuck in a traffic jam.

'They had called a paramedic but they said she just turned her head to the side and passed away. There was no dignity in my sister's death and I haven't had a single answer from the hospital since.

Patricia Bunn (pictured) said her 'very sharp' sister was a much-loved aunt and great-aunt who never complained of her ill health during her three-week stay at the hospital

Patricia said her 'very sharp' sister was a much-loved aunt and great-aunt who never complained of her ill health during her three-week stay at the hospital.

Patricia, a fiction author, of Raleigh, Essex, claimed hospital doctors refused to tell her how ill Glenda was with one even planning to immunise her for pneumonia in five years' time.

'It's important that the investigation is carried out not so much quickly but accurately because Glenda isn't on her own,' she said.

'The only honesty that we have had was on the Saturday when I her into hospital and the young A&E doctor who was in charge of her took me aside and told me all your sister's systems are failing - that was the only honesty I had.

'He told me effectively without putting it into words that she's dying.

'But I couldn't believe what I was told when I went to see a consultant three or four days later - and he says to me, "of course in about five years' time your sister will need a pneumonia jab".

'I looked at him and nodded but thought she's never going to make Christmas, why are we talking about five years?'

She added: 'My complaint about my sister's treatment actually goes back four years.

'She was admitted with pneumonia in one lung but within days she had fallen, broken her arm and leg and her pneumonia had spread to both lungs.

'The pneumonia meant she could not be operated on so she was left in agony for weeks. She was never the same.

'The indignities that my sister suffered over those four years I just couldn't put into polite language.

'Her being declared medically fit - that was insult upon injury.

'The only compensation I would want is my sister back but that's never going to happen.'

Glenda was a senior manager for the Tube's Northern Line for three decades until she retired in the late 1990s. She never married and had no children.

Denise Townsend, director of nursing at Southend Hospital, said: 'I can confirm we have received a complaint from Patricia Putt.

'I am sorry that Patricia is unhappy with the care her sister received at Southend Hospital.

'Please be assured that we are thoroughly investigating this matter and will invite Patricia to come in and discuss our completed findings with us.'
Five teenagers drowned after the pickup truck they were riding in hit a guardrail and crashed into a creek in northeastern Oklahoma on Sunday night.

According to an Oklahoma Highway Patrol report, Donovan Caldwell, 18; Jessica Swartwout, 18; Drake Wells, 19; Rhianna Seely, 18; and Lily Murphy, 18; all died at the scene of the crash near Tahlequah.

The collision occurred around 10.40pm as the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado pickup, which was driving south on Welling Road, hit a guardrail.

The truck bounced back to the other side of the road and veered off to the left, driving through the railing and off Welling Bridge, plunging 35 feet into Baron Fort Creek and landing on its roof.

Scroll down for video

Five teenagers drowned after the pickup truck they were riding in hit a guardrail and crashed into a creek in northeastern Oklahoma on Sunday night. Donovan Caldwell, 18 (left), was named the driver of the truck, according to police. Reports have differed in regards to whether he or victim Jessica Swartwout, 18 (right), was the only one wearing a seatbelt

All five were students at the nearby Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. Drake Wells, 19 (left); Lily Murphy, 18 (right); and Rhianna Seely, 18; were also killed

Courtesy FOX 23

Caldwell was named the driver of the truck. Some reports have claimed that Caldwell was the only one wearing a seat belt and others have named Swartwourt to be the only person.

All five teenagers were students at the nearby Northeastern State University in Tahlequah.

NSU President Steve Turner said in a statement Monday morning: 'I cannot fathom the pain the families and friends of these young people are going through as a result of this terrible and tragic accident. My thoughts and prayers are with them this morning.'

Turner added that the university is providing counseling for students and friends of the victims.

The collision occurred around 10.40pm as the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado pickup (pictured), which was driving south on Welling Road, hit a guardrail

The truck bounced back to the other side of the road and drove through the railing off Welling Bridge (pictured), plunging 35 feet into Baron Fort Creek and landing on its roof

NSU President Steve Turner said in a statement Monday morning that the university is providing counseling for students and friends of the victims. The report says the cause of the crash, and Caldwell's condition at the time, remains under investigation (Pictured, Caldwell and Murphy)

'I have every confidence in the compassion of the NSU family to pull together and support those who are experiencing so much pain and sadness,' he said.

The OHP, Cherokee County Sheriff's Department, Welling Fire Department and Cherokee Nation EMS responded to the scene and had to extradite all five from the vehicle.

The report says the cause of the crash, and Caldwell's condition at the time, remains under investigation.
Anna Harris, 28, was devastated after claiming something solid in a McDonald's apple pie left a gaping hole in her tooth

A bride-to-be with a dentist phobia has slammed McDonald's after breaking her tooth on allegedly something solid lurking in an apple pie.

Anna Harris, whose fear of the dentist is so severe that she blacks out in the chair, now has to fork out 500 in dental bills to fix the shattered tooth.

But jewellery and bakery business owner Ms Harris, 28, claims she cracked her tooth in half after chomping down on the 99p dessert she bought from the restaurant's Binley branch in Coventry.

Anna is so terrified of having it fixed that she waited nearly three weeks and had to take anti-anxiety medication to muster the courage and book a dentist appointment.

'I know as an adult it's completely ridiculous to have a dentist phobia like this, but it's something I've had for a long time which started when I was a little girl,' said Miss Harris, from Bishop's Itchington, near Leamington Spa.

'To a normal person it would just be a case of going to the dentist and getting it fixed but I also suffer with anxiety and panic attacks.

'I'm better than I was - some stuff still triggers it, mainly anything medical or dental.

'I held it together in McDonald's and was just angry because all I'd done was gone to have some food then my tooth had gone.

'When I came home to my fiance I just lost it and started crying.'

Anna claims that despite the store manager initially being sympathetic and vowing to get to the root of what happened, she hasn't heard back from McDonald's.

Anna has had to fork out 500 to get her tooth fixed privately. Her phobia of dentists is so severe that she will anaesthetised for the procedure

Ms Harris, pictured with her fiance Scot. She claims that despite the store manager initially being sympathetic and vowing to get to the root of what happened, she hasn't heard back from McDonald's

She added: 'I have had to have diazepam to get to the dentist or I get quite distressed.

'The first thing my dentist said was that I might need root canal work, which was scary.

'She then did a deeper X-ray and said she could fix it with a very large filling but within a few years it would need a crown on it.

'These aren't the kinds of thing you want to hear when you have a dental phobia.'

Anna claims she has been quoted just under 500 to get her tooth fixed by a private dentist - 350 for sedation and 145 for a filling.

Anna said: 'I'm annoyed I've got a big dental bill through no fault of my own.

'My fiance Scot surprised me with a holiday to Florida next month - it's been a dream of mine to go to America at Halloween - but now I have to pay out for a dentist.

'I'm also getting married next year and I want to look the best I can in the photos.

Ms Harris' fiance Scot surprised her with a holiday to Florida next month, but she has now had to fork our 500 to get her tooth fixed privately

A spokesman for McDonalds apologised after hearing about Miss Harris' experience and said the restaurant is launching an investigation

'Weddings and holidays aren't cheap, Scot and I work hard so we can enjoy these experiences together.'

McDonald's said that food safety is of the utmost importance to them and they have launched an investigation into the incident.

A McDonald's spokesman said: 'We are sorry to hear about this customer's experience. Food safety is of the utmost importance to us and we place great emphasis on quality control, following rigorous standards to avoid any imperfections.

'As soon as this matter was brought to our attention, we apologised and started an investigation. The restaurant team also contacted the customer after she had left the restaurant to check on her wellbeing.

'Our Customer Services team will be in touch as soon as the investigation is complete.'
A White House lawyer and one of Donald Trump's personal attorneys lunching at a Washington, D.C. steakhouse on Sunday loudly dished dirt about the Justice Department's Russia investigation  while a reporter chronicled the conversation at the next table.

White House Counsel Don McGahn upbraided in-house attorney Ty Cobb for the lapse in judgment, according to a New York Times report.

Cobb, sporting his unmistakable handlebar moustache, told Trump attorney John Dowd that McGahn had 'a couple of documents locked in a safe' that he intended to withhold from special counsel Robert Mueller.

White House lawyers Ty Cobb (left) and John Dowd (right) were overheard loudly dishing dirt about special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into alleged Trump campaign Russia ties

Cobb said White House Counsel Don McGahn (pictured) has documents locked in a safe that should be turned over to Mueller

Cobb argued that the White House should hand over everything, believing that transparency will ultimately clear the president.

The conversation occurred next door to the Times' Washington office, at a restaurant known as a hangout for the newspaper's political reporters.

Mueller is investigating whether the Trump presidential campaign colluded with the Russian government to sway the 2016 election in the president's favor.

The newspaper reported late Sunday that White House officials have become so paranoid about the Russia investigation that some are afraid to discuss it inside the West Wing  fearing that their colleagues could be wearing secret microphones to gather information for Mueller.

Mueller is investigating whether Donald Trump's presidential campaign colluded with Moscow to tilt the election in his favor

Mueller is suspected of wiring some White House aides in order to gather information, according to The New York Times

Cobb also told Dowd on Sunday that 'I've got some reservations about one of them. I think he's like a McGahn spy.'

White House Chief of Staff John Kelly erupted at Cobb after he learned about the lunchtime conversation.

Here's a photo of Ty Cobb & John Dowd casually & loudly discussing details of Russia investigation at @BLTSteakDC while I sat at next table. pic.twitter.com/RfX9JLJ0Te  Kenneth P. Vogel (@kenvogel) September 18, 2017

Cobb was also heard complaining about a White House colleague who he thought was a McGahn spy responsible for 'earlier leaks'  and who allegedly plotted to oust Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner from the administration.

Several congressional committees are also investigating possible Russia links with the Trump campaign.
A New York state Amber Alert has been issued for a baby boy and a toddler after they were abducted from Long Island early this morning.

Promise Lee, two months old, and Love Lee, two years old, are believed to be in 'imminent danger', police say.

The children were kidnapped near 17th Street in Jericho, Long Island at around 6.45am on Monday, allegedly by Sun Shin, 31.

Promise Lee (left), two months old, and Love Lee, (right) two years old, are believed to be in 'imminent danger', police say

Shin was last seen traveling on 17th Street in Jericho in her white four-door sedan 2015 Honda Accord with New York license plate number HCR1560.

It wasn't immediately clear if she had a relationship with the children.

Cops say the kids were abducted under circumstances that lead them to believe they are in imminent danger, but would not elaborate on what those circumstances were.

The children were kidnapped near 17th Street in Jericho, Long Island at around 6.45am on Monday, allegedly by Sun Shin, 31, (pictured)

A New York state Amber Alert (pictured) has been issued for the missing baby boy and toddler

Shin is described as being around 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing about 115 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Promise Lee is about 18 inches tall and weighs about 15 pounds, while Love is around 2ft tall, weighs 30lbs and has black hair and brown eyes. It is not clear if they are related.

Anyone who sees the missing children or abductor, or has any information is asked to call the Nassau County Police Department at (866)N Y S-AMBER or dial 911.
An eight-year-old girl has tragically died just days after contracting deadly flu virus as her father stops to remember his 'loving little angel.'

In what has become one of Australia's worst flu seasons in history, Melbourne Cub Scout Rosie passed away at the Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully on Friday.

Her devastated father Christian Brealey has thanked the public for supporting their family during such a traumatic time and paused to honour his 'beautiful' daughter.

In what has become one of Australia's worst flue seasons in history, Melbourne Cub Scout Rosie (pictured) passed away at the Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully on Friday

'We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful, loving little angel,' Mr Brealey said in a statement to the Herald Sun (pictured his daughter Rosie)

'We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful, loving little angel,' Mr Brealey said in a statement to the Herald Sun.

'Words cannot describe the depths of our grief. We want to thank our friends and family and the broader community for all the messages of love and compassion. We are so grateful for your support.

His statement encouraged all parents to immunise their kids against the flu and respect the family's need for time and space to grieve.

Her devastated father Christian Brealey (pictured) has thanked the public for supporting their family during such a traumatic time and paused to honour his 'beautiful' daughter

A fundraising page has been set up by Mr Brealey's friend James Bailey to show support and has raised almost $2,500 since Rosie's passing.

'His family has suffered a loss this week, losing their precious Rosie to a simple flu in Melbourne,' the description reads.

'As the family struggle to come to terms with this loss, we are hoping to raise some donations to show how much we care about Christian and his family, and ease some of the burden during this time.

'We know this would break the biggest and baddest of men!'

A fundraising page has been set up by Mr Brealey's friend James Bailey to show support and has raised almost $2,500 since Rosie's passing (pictured Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully)

Supporters were quick to share their sincerest condolences.

'To my friends Christian, Kylie, Heath & Finn, I hope we can all make a small difference, I wish I could take your heartbreaking pain away - we love you and will be here to support you in any way we can.

'RIP beautiful princess Rosie,' one person wrote on the Go Fund Me page.

'No words will do mate, hope this little bit helps...' another added.

There have been ten known deaths by flu in Victoria alone and Health Minister Jill Hennessy has implored people not to ignore potential deadly symptoms.
Retired barber Stanwood Elkus, 79, was sentenced on Friday over the fatal shooting of his former doctor Ronald Gilbert inside his California exam rooms in 2013

A retired barber has been jailed for life for the murder of a California urologist he shot 10 times in an exam room as revenge for a botched surgery performed by another doctor 21 years earlier.

Stanwood Elkus, 79, was sentenced on Friday over the fatal shooting of his former doctor Ronald Gilbert inside his Newport Beach offices in 2013.

Prosecutors had argued during his murder trial that Elkus had developed an obsession with his health over what he claimed was a botched surgery in 1992 that damaged his prostate.

Elkus blamed his incontinence, erectile dysfunction, diminished sex drive and the loss of his long term girlfriend on the surgery and believed it had ruined his life.

Dr Gilbert was a young medical resident at the time of the surgery and worked with a team of doctors to diagnose Elkus with a urethral stricture. He was not one of the doctors to perform the surgery to widen the patient's urethra.

Dr Gilbert was a young medical resident at the time and helped diagnose Elkus with his condition. But he was not one of the doctors to perform the surgery on Elkus

The retired barber was still angry about the surgery when he drove to Dr Gilbert's office in Newport (above) on January 28, 2013 and shot him 10 times in an exam room

Elkus, however, maintained a grudge against Dr Gilbert for years and showed up to his office prior to the shooting with medical records and a recording of his then-girlfriend talking about his sexual problems.

The retired barber was still angry about the surgery when he drove to the doctor's office on January 28, 2013.

He had scheduled an appointment with Dr Gilbert - a married father-of-two - using a fake name and shot him 10 times when he walked into the exam room.

Elkus had pleaded not guilty to Dr Gilbert's murder by reason of insanity. His defense attorney had argued that Elkus has dementia and brain damage, but jurors found he was sane when he shot dead the urologist.

He was sentenced to life in prison without parole last week. Jurors also agreed on allegations of lying in wait and personal use of a gun, which added an additional 10 years to his sentence.
Craig Brown has been jailed for four and a half years for fleecing a scientist of her money after starting a relationship with her by telling her he was a former soldier

A gambling-obsessed conman told a wealthy woman scientist he was a secret agent before fleecing her out 220,000.

Fraudster Craig Brown's victim thought she had met the 'perfect man' when she was swept off her feet by her 'confident, friendly and hugely likeable' suitor.

But after gaining access to her bank accounts, he plundered her savings before fleeing to Spain when she reported him to the police.

After he was finally brought to justice, Brown, 41, of Broxburn, near Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to eight offences of fraud and one of theft and was jailed for four and a half years.

Gloucester Crown Court heard the pair met in Brighton in 2011 and he told her he was a former soldier working for the Secret Service.

The judge, Recorder Paul Grumbar, said of the victim: 'She fell under your spell and how you charmed her in almost every respect.'

Brown then moved in with the woman, telling her he was due to get a 320,000 divorce settlement and would start paying his way when it came through.

Brown then asked the woman for several short term loans and promptly repaid them - building up her trust before gaining access to her finances.

He would take her out for meals and other trips, paying with 'wads of cash' in his wallet, then he told her he was an 'old fashioned man' and wanted to manage her accounts so she would be spared the trouble.

The woman, who cannot be identified, told the court: 'He is a contemptible liar who will say or do anything to get what he wants without any thought for the impact on anyone else'

Prosecutor Tara Wolfe told the court: 'He also persuaded her not to look at her bank account as it would spoil the surprise of what he was planning for her 40th birthday'. Brown also intercepted and hid all of the woman's post to prevent her seeing her account balances.

Brown even asked the woman's parents to help him raise the money for a deposit on a house, but cheques he wrote to repay the money had not been honoured.

When the woman confronted him, he pretended to have taken an overdose and was taken to hospital, but blood tests showed that he did not require treatment.

She called the police and Brown was due to be interviewed the next day, but he fled to Spain, where he spent the next four and a half years.

'He returned to Scotland, where he had been living for about four months with his Spanish girlfriend when he was arrested by Gloucestershire police on 16 May 2017,' Ms Wolfe said.

'He told more lies. He said a man had been threatening to burn his step-children and harm his partner. He accused another man who was an arms disposal expert of threatening to blow him up.'

Brown was finally prosecuted at Gloucester Crown Court after he went on the run in Spain

Jailing him, Recorder Grumbar told him: 'This lady is clearly respectable, intelligent - but she was about 40 years old and single and she thought she had found the love of her dreams. The picture that is painted is of appalling, simply appalling, and cruel abuse of her trust in you.

'Her self-esteem destroyed, she has been humiliated. The huge sum of money which was the accumulated efforts of her hard work has been dissipated by you.

'When it all got too hot to handle you vanished. I accept that you have a gambling problem. But it sounds as if you enjoyed the high life as well - at other people's expense.'
The U.S. Navy dismissed two senior officers, an admiral and a captain, on Monday after a series of collisions involving Seventh Fleet warships in Asia, citing a loss of confidence in their ability to command.

Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of Task Force 70, and Captain Jeffrey Bennett, commander of Destroyer Squadron 15, were fired by Seventh Fleet commander Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer, the Navy said.

In August, Sawyer replaced fleet commander Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin, who was fired after the accidents.

Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of Task Force 70, (L) and Captain Jeffrey Bennett, commander of Destroyer Squadron 15, (R) were fired the Navy said

'Both reliefs were due to a loss of confidence in their ability to command,' the Navy statement said.

The shakeup in the Seventh Fleet command followed a pre-dawn collision between guided-missile destroyer USS McCain and a merchant vessel east of Singapore and Malaysia on August 21, which killed 10 sailors and was the fourth major incident in the U.S. Pacific Fleet this year.

Seventh Fleet commander Vice Admiral Phil Sawyer was the one to fire the admiral and the captain 'due to a loss of confidence in their ability to command'

Chief of naval operations, Adm. John Richardson, said he wanted to conduct a 'comprehensive review' of recent US Navy collisions, according to CNN.

He doesn't necessarily believe the incidents are a result of cyberintrusion or sabotage, however, he is considering all options.

'We are looking at every possibility so we are not leaving anything to chance there,' he stated.

Additionally, in June, another destroyer, the USS Fitzgerald, collided with a Philippine cargo ship, killing seven U.S. sailors.

An unnamed US defense official said: 'The way it looks now, it seems that the crew on the (USS) Fitzgerald is going to be at fault,' according to The Guardian.

He added: 'They are certainly going to be held accountable in some way for their actions.'

Damage to the portside is visible as the Guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) steers towards Changi Naval Base, Republic of Singapore, following a collision with the merchant vessel Alnic MC while underway east of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore on August 21

Significant damage was done to the hull resulted in flooding to nearby compartments, including crew berthing, machinery, and communications rooms

Senior US Navy officer, William Moran, told a congressional oversight panel in early September that the hectic pace of military operations and a constrained military budget don't excuse these two warship accidents that killed 17 American sailors.

'No matter how tough our operating environment, or how strained our budget, we shouldn't be and cannot be colliding with other ships and running aground,' Admiral William Moran, the vice chief of naval operations, told members of the House Armed Services Committee.

'We have allowed standards to drop as the number of certifications has grown,' he added.

'That is not about resourcing; it is about safety and it is about leadership at sea.'

U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships steam in formation at the conclusion of Keen Sword

US Navy guided missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald arrives at its mother port US Naval Yokosuka Base, Kanagawa prefecture on June 17 this year
Brexit Secretary David Davis, pictured outside Downing Street last week, wants to build a 'new partnership' with the EU so tackle cross border crime and terrorism

Britain today warned the EU to strike a deal which maintains security cooperation post Brexit or face increasing the risk of terrorism and cross-border crime.

Ministers want to strike a new treaty on security links with the bloc which replicates the same ties we have now.

A Brexit white paper warned merely replicating the arrangements the EU has with other third party countries wold lead to a 'limited patchwork of cooperation'.

This risks creating a 'piecemeal approach' which would risk creating 'operational gaps' for the UK and EU 'increasing the risk for citizens across Europe'.

Instead, ministers want a 'comprehensive' framework that would be underpinned by a new treaty, according to the blueprint published today.

Brexit Secretary David Davis said: 'Together with the EU we have developed some of the world's most sophisticated systems in the fight against crime because cross-border cooperation is absolutely crucial if we're to keep our citizens safe and bring criminals to justice.

'That is why we want to build a new partnership with the EU that goes beyond any existing relationship it has with non-member states, so we can continue countering these cross-border threats together.'

The wave of terror attacks which have hit Britain and other EU countries this year have thrust the question of security cooperation to the forefront.

The UK has been hit by five terror attacks in just six months - killing dozens and injuring many more.

While extremists have also struck against innocent people in France, Germany and Sweden.

And there are fears that as ISIS are beaten back in Syria and Iraq, they will urge their recruits in Europe to launch more deadly assaults on Western streets.

Senior figures in policing and counter-terrorism have pointed out the crucial role Britain plays in sharing intelligence across the bloc, and vice versa.

And British politicians are keen to strike a Brexit deal which maintains these close ties.

The new Government paper acknowledges that a number of non-EU states already have agreements with the union in areas such as sharing fingerprint and airline passenger data.

Britain has been struck by an unprecedented wave of terror attacks this year, with five attacks launched in just six months. The authorities said 29 people were injured when a bucket bomb (pictured left) was planted on a District Line tube at Parsons Green on Friday

It says: 'One option for future EU-UK cooperation in this area would be to limit cooperation to those areas where a precedent for cooperation between the EU and third countries already exists.

'While this would be one possible approach, it would result in a limited patchwork of cooperation falling well short of current capabilities.

'It would also fall short of current channels used to assess the strategic threats facing European countries, threats that will still be shared after the UK withdraws from the EU.

'A piecemeal approach to future UK-EU cooperation would therefore have more limited value, and would risk creating operational gaps for both the UK and for its European partners, increasing the risk for citizens across Europe.'

The UK's proximity to Europe,the volume of cross-border movements, and the 'high degree of alignment' in the scale and nature of the threats faced 'call for a new, more ambitious model for cooperation', the document said.

The paper highlights UK's role in the development and operation of a number of EU tools, saying the country 'brings leading capabilities and expertise'.
English tutor David Lang (pictured), 64, from New York, but living in Russia, has been accused of child rape and pornography offences involving two girls under the age of 14. He faces 15 years in jail if convicted

An English tutor from New York, living in Russia, has been accused of child rape and pornography offences involving two girls under the age of 14.

Long-term expat David Lang, 64, who teaches English and business classes in Chelyabinsk, faces 25 counts of rape, producing child pornography and sexual abuse charges over the course of nine years.

Lang, a respected teacher known to senior US diplomats, could face 15 years in jail, if convicted.

His trial - in the Urals city of Chelyabinsk, where he lived - is being held in secret because of the alleged underage victims.

Evidence at his trial will include graphic pictures and films reportedly to seized at his home in Chelyabinsk or posted on the internet.

A spokesman for Kurchatovsky District court said: 'The first hearing took place on September 6.

'The man was charged with making and distributing pornographic materials where underage children were involved.

Lang, thought to be a respected teacher known to senior US diplomats, could face 15 years in jail, if convicted

Evidence at his trial will include graphic pictures and films reported to have been seized at his home in Chelyabinsk or posted on the internet

'He is also accused of raping underage victims. There are two victims in the case.

'The hearings are closed because of the underage victims.'

The names of the children have not been given, nor have their ages when the alleged offences took place, except that they were under 14.

Lang was detained in 2015, and has been held since at a detention jail in Chelyabinsk.

Before his arrest the accused was pictured with then US ambassador to Russia, Alexander Vershbow, who served in Moscow from 2001 to 2005.

He was also photographed with American consul-general in Ekaterinburg, Thomas Niblock.

Before his arrest he was pictured with US ambassador to Russia, Alexander Vershbow, who served in Moscow from 2001 to 2005

It is believed Lang took part in US programmes to develop democracy in Russia.

Lang has been living and working in Russia since the early 2000s, say the authorities.

According to state investigators, Lang posted his child pornography online and his illegal activities went on from June 2006 to November 2015 when he was arrested.

The Russian authorities were earlier reported to have accused Lang of overstaying his visa.
A mom had an emotional meeting with the transplant patient who received her son's heart.

Donna Harper lost her 22-year-old son, Matthew Boylen, in a car accident in Ohio 11 years ago. Boylen was an organ donor and Lucy Boenitz, who was suffering from heart failure at that time, received his heart.

Boenitz, who works as a first-grade teaching assistant at St. Richard's Episcopal School, met with Harper for the first time on Saturday - 11 years since her life-altering heart transplant and Boylen's fatal car accident.

Scroll down for video

Donna Harper (R) met with Lucy Boenitz (L) (who received her son's heart) for the first time since losing her son, Matthew Boylen, to a car accident in 2006

The emotional encounter, which was caught on video, shows the two women embracing as Harper (R) listens to her son's heart beating through a stethoscope.

Boenitz had contracted a virus that ultimately led to her needing a heart transplant.

According to Detroit Free Press the transplant took place on August 17, 2006 at IU Health Methodist Hospital.

Speaking in a video obtained from abc15 Boenitz spoke about her special connection to Matthew since the transplant: 'Matthew means gift from God. I believe in so many ways he was,' she tearfully said to the camera.

Matthew Boylen (pictured here) left behind a daughter Kelsey Pearson (also pictured here), who was just a toddler back then

Boenitz (L) couldn't hold back her tears whilst Harper (R) also was emotional when listening to her son's heart beating, eleven years since losing him

'I remember being so thankful to be alive,' she emotionally continued.

The two women were clearly overwhelmed when they met for the first time as Boenitz said to Harper: 'Do you want to hear his heart? It's probably going to be going a million miles an hour.'

The emotional encounter, which was caught on video, shows the two women embracing as Harper listens to her son's heart beating through a stethoscope.

Boenitz said during the embrace: 'It's strong and it's healthy and it's love.'

Kelsey Pearson, who was a toddler when her father died, also got to listen to her father's heart beating.

'Take all the time you need,' Boenitz reassured the 12-year-old. 'He's still right here.'

Boylen's long-term girlfriend Maggie Pearson was also there, as were his sisters - Mindy Callihan and Jamie Harriman.

The two extended families sat down and reminisced about Boylen by looking through old photos of the 22-year-old and telling stories about him.

Boenitz was overwhelmed with the union as she said during the video: 'Matthew means gift from God. I believe in so many ways he was'

The two women were overjoyed that they could finally meet

Harper (pictured in the middle) reminisced about her son Boylen

Boenitz works as a first-grade teaching assistant at St. Richard's Episcopal School

Boylen's sister Harriman said: 'He would have wanted his heart to go to someone who loved their family, who made a difference in the world.'

'That's why we've been able to come to terms. We're all organ donors now.'

Boenitz added: 'When I tell people about Matthew, Im just so proud of him and he isnt my child. Had he not even given me a heart, Im just so proud of him. He was doing all the right things.'
Three people were killed and 15 others were injured on Monday when a MTA bus and a private tour bus collided in Queens, New York.

Firefighters rushed to the scene of the crash that occurred in the neighborhood of Flushing around 6.15am.

An MTA spokesman said the Q20 bus was making a right turn on Northern Boulevard when the private bus, run by Flushing-based Dahlia Travel and Tours, struck it and crashed into a row of storefronts.

One victim, pinned under the bus, died at the scene. Two others, among seven who were critically injured, died at the hospital. The dead have been identified as Raymond Ming, 49; Gregory Liljefors, 55; and Henry Wdowiak, 68.

Audris Liljefors told The New York Post that Gregory, was a security guard who was on his way home from working a night shift,

'He was a good man. He was a good husband for 27 years. He was a good father to his two step-sons,' she said.

One of the victims was the charter bus's driver, the NYPD confirmed, but is unclear whether Ming or Wdowiak was the driver.

A picture of the speedometer on the Dahila bus, obtained by PIX11, showed it stuck at 60mph, which is more than twice the area's speed limit of more than 25mph. Investigators said they are cataloging it as evidence.

Scroll down for video

Three people were killed and 15 others were injured on Monday when an MTA bus and a private tour bus collided in Queens, New York, around 6.15am

An MTA spokesman said the Q20 bus was making a right turn on Northern Boulevard when the private bus, run by Flushing-based Dahlia Travel and Tours, struck it and crashed into a row of storefronts

One victim, pinned under the bus, died at the scene and two others, among seven who were critically injured, died at the hospital. One of the victims was the charter bus's driver, the NYPD confirmed

It is believed the dead have been identified as Raymond Ming, 49; Gregory Liljefors, 55; and Henry Wdowiak, 68. Liljefors's widow said her husband was a security guard on his way home from work

One person is listed in serious but stable condition, and nine others suffered minor injuries, including the MTA bus driver who has 10 years on the job according to the New York Post.

Images from the scene showed the Dahlia bus crashed into a Kennedy Pizza & Chicken while the MTA bus was facing the wrong direction on eastbound Northern Boulevard.

A small fire inside the building erupted following the crash which has since been extinguished, the FDNY said.

Video from the scene shows dozens of first responders swarming the two buses and firefighters using hydraulic extrication devices to free some of those trapped in the wreckage.

Heavy traffic delays were expected in the area as authorities canvassed the scene.

Authorities said they would look at surveillance video to help determine what caused the collision.

'We've had a really tragic morning here in Flushing, Queens,' Mayor Bill de Blasio told reporters at the scene of the crash.

'Just shocking to see the scene over there, hard to compare it to anything I've ever seen  the sheer destruction from the impact of this collision.'

One person was listed in serious but stable condition, and nine others suffered minor injuries

Images from the scene showed the Dahlia tour bus crashed into a Kennedy Pizza & Chicken storefront. A small fire erupted following the crash which has since been extinguished, the FDNY said

Authorities said they would look at surveillance video to help determine what caused the collision

'Just shocking to see the scene over there, hard to compare it to anything I've ever seen - the sheer destruction from the impact of this collision,' Mayor Bill de Blasio (center) told reporters

This is not the first time a Dahlia tour bus has been involved in a serious accident.

In February 2016, one of the company's buses rolled over en route to a Connecticut casino, injuring 14 passengers.

Additionally, the company appears to have an unsafe driving record. DNAinfo.com reported that, this year alone, federal records show Dahlia has been cited on three different occasions for speeding and failing to obey a traffic device.
Loraine Alison Hunter, from Moreno Valley, California, was convicted of first-degree murder on August 21 in the death of her husband Albert Thomas

A 62-year-old woman could be put to death for the 2009 murder of her husband after evidence was presented in court suggesting he was not the first she has killed.

Loraine Alison Hunter, from Moreno Valley, California, was convicted of first-degree murder on August 21 in the death of her husband Albert Thomas.

At that time the jury also learned that Hunter killed Thomas for financial gain and that it was something she'd been planning for months.

Hunter is expected to be sentenced on December 8, according to KTLA.

Thomas was found shot to death in the sleeper section of his semitruck on November 4, 2009.

The truck, which he drove for work, was parked in a dirt lot off of a busy intersection in Moreno Valley.

Thomas was found shot to death in the sleeper section of his semitruck on November 4, 2009. The truck, which he drove for work, was parked in a dirt lot (pictured) off of a busy intersection in Moreno Valley

Hunter was prevented from collecting his life insurance, but prosecutors claim she was aware of more than $1million available in policies under his name at the time of his death.

When deciding her sentence the jury was shown evidence that another husband of hers was murdered in Inglewood in 1996.

In that case no one was ever charged and she collected roughly $312,000 in life insurance.

Hunter was interviewed immediately after Thomas's death, but wasn't arrested until 2011.

Briuana Hunter, the defense's 23-year-old daughter, told the jury that she and her mother spent months planning Thomas's death, the Riverside Press-Enterprise reported. She spoke to the court after accepting a plea deal

Initially she claimed she didn't know of any life insurance policies, but investigators found that she'd spoken to the trucking company that employed her husband and learned of two policies totaling $225,000.

Those policies, police found, would double if Thomas was murdered instead of dying from a natural cause or as a result of an accident.

'The administrator at the trucking company told detectives that Hunter, prior to Thomas being found dead, had personally been told about the polices and that they doubled in the case of a murder,' the District Attorney's office said in an official release.

Briuana Hunter, the defense's 23-year-old daughter, told the jury that she and her mother spent months planning Thomas's death, the Riverside Press-Enterprise reported.

'She told me, "We need to figure something out,"' the young woman told the court after accepting a plea deal.

'She said that we needed the money. At first I didn't know what she meant, but later on it became clear.'

On top of the $450,000 available through her husband's life insurance policy, Hunter forged his signature in an attempt to secure another more lucrative policy of $750,000 just six months before his murder.

She was never able to collect any of the money because she never obtained a death certificate.
A newly released image shows comedian Kevin Hart resting his head on a woman's chest and clutching her thigh in a steamy video at the centre of an FBI extortion probe.

Hart, 38, can be seen laughing as he gets close to the woman in the intimate photo.

TMZ, which first showed the image, says it is part of a video that also includes two people having sex followed by a naked man getting dressed, which appears to look like Hart.

This comes as Hart's pregnant wife made her first public appearance following the comedian's public apology to her and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment.'

Eniko Hart, 33, looked very solemn but casual as she made her way to an animal Hospital with the couple's Doberman Pinscher, Roxy, in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Kevin Hart posted a video to Instagram on Saturday in which he apologized to wife Eniko Parrish and said he wasn't perfect and had recently made poor decisions.

It has also been revealed that part of the tape being investigated by the FBI includes the comedian talking about how he would never cheat on his wife.

In the clip from an earlier interview, Hart says: 'I got a good one. I can't play any games... Why risk it? What am I going to throw it all away for?'

Scroll down for video

A newly released image shows comedian Kevin Hart resting his head on a woman's chest and clutching her thigh in a steamy video at the centre of an FBI extortion probe

Eniko Hart, 33, looked very solemn but casual as she made her way to an animal Hospital with the couples Doberman Pinscher, Roxy, in Los Angeles on Sunday

Wearing an army fatigue tracksuit and comfortable black sneakers, Eniko looked intent on getting to her location

Her pregnant belly was perfectly tucked behind a white t-shirt as she wore little to no makeup and had her sleek black tresses tied up in a bun

What Kevin Hart said about cheating... 'I got a good one. I can't play any games... I call her my rib and I don't know if people know what that means - it's from the Bible. A rib is something you can't live without. 'You can always try to find something that's better - a bigger a**, some breasts but that never ends so when you do find something stimulates you on a physical and mental and emotional level at this age, what else do you need? 'I got a good one. A logical, thinking woman... why risk it? What am I going to throw it all away for? It's not worth it at all, man.' Advertisement

He said there were 'no excuses' but added that someone was trying to seek financial gain over his mistakes, and he'd rather confess than let that happen.

Wearing an army fatigue tracksuit and comfortable black sneakers, Eniko looked intent on getting to her location.

Her pregnant belly was perfectly tucked behind a white t-shirt as she wore little to no makeup and had her sleek black tresses tied up in a bun.

Eniko still had her wedding ring on and had a large black bag on her shoulder as she made her way to the animal hospital.

She wore simple earrings to tie together a very casual and homely looking outfit.

Kevin Hart's alleged extortionist has also spoken out to call the star a liar as the FBI investigate the attempt at a multi-million dollar demand.

She wore simple earrings to tie together a very casual and homely looking outfit

It was her first public appearance following the comedian's public apology to her and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment'

Eniko still had her wedding ring on and had a large black bag on her shoulder as she made her way to the animal hospital

The mystery person said: 'Kevin Hart was privy to me wanting to expose him as I have made countless attempts to expose this information to various blogs, in an attempt to also get paid.'

The FBI is investigating the multi-million dollar extortion attempt on Kevin Hart after he publicly apologized to his pregnant wife and his two children over what he described as a 'bad error in judgment.'

Law enforcement officials told TMZ that an anonymous person contacted Hart saying they had a video of the comedian and a woman in a sexually provocative situation.

Sources have told TMZ that the FBI knows who the woman is that interacted with Kevin and they believe that she is the one making the demands.

But they also believe that the video was captured by someone who got a hold of the iPhone that the encounter was captured on.

Sources have also told TMZ that Hart's hurricane relief had nothing to do with the extortion attempt, contrary to claims made by the extortionist.

The 38-year-old posted a video to Instagram on Saturday in which he apologized to wife Eniko Parrish and said he wasn't perfect and had recently made poor decisions

Risky business? Hart was snapped in July in a Lexus with a woman local media identified as singer Monique 'Momo' Gonzalez
Three Mexicans were killed, mutilated and dumped in the street with their severed heads inside sombreros ahead of the country's independence day celebrations.

The remains of brothers Juan Salvador Patino Leon, 27, and Jorge Luis, 31, were found on one of the main streets in the city of Xalapa, next to the body of Denisse Yazaret Morales Juarez, 28, the girlfriend of one of the men.

Loved ones had reported the trio missing on September 12, and their bodies were found the following day, just three days before street parties to remember the country's battle for independence from Spain.

Police have not yet confirmed why the trio were killed, but the manner in which their bodies were displayed indicates a gang-related death.

The mutilated bodies of three Mexicans were found on the streets of Xalapa tied up in bin bags with sombreros containing their severed heads on top

Loved ones said the trio went missing on September 12 before their bodies were found the following day, ahead of celebrations for Mexico's independence day

The bodies were found wrapped in bin bags tied with brown parcel tape, with two brooms laid over the top of them.

On top of each of the bodies was a sombrero containing the severed heads of the victims, images from the scene show. The hats were decorated with the colors of the national flag in reference to the upcoming celebrations.

The shocking way their bodies were mutilated and displayed indicates they were most likley murdered by a drugs cartel.

Locals claim the brothers, from Union, Nautla in Veracruz, came from a family with long links to criminal activity.

'Their father Jorge Patino was a kidnapper and murderer and now he's in jail,' one commenter wrote.

'One of their uncles... disappeared for the same thing. Here they continue just like their aunt, dedicated to drugging themselves and threatening people. Other members of their family are in jail in the US.

'In other words, they are all scum.'

Decapitations by gangs in Mexico first began in 2006, when members famously dumped the severed heads of five victims on the dance floor of a nightclub in Uruapan, a town in Michoacan state.

One of the victims was named as Denisse Yazaret Morales Juarez, 28, (left). She is believed to have been dating one of the men who was killed

Brothers Jorge Salvador Patino Leon, 27, (left) and Jorge Luis, 31, (right) were also named among the dead. It is not clear why they were killed

Mexican criminal expert, Jorge Chaba, at the Center for Research and Teaching of Economics in Mexico City, told McClathcy DC Bureau that gangs were inspired by the YouTube videos posted al Qaida and ISIS.

They adopted the brutal methods as a way to shock and horrify - sending a message to their enemies not to cross them. Since then, gangs have been competing to out-do each other in gruesome manners of death, including dissolving the bodies in acid, but most have returned to decapitation for its shock-factor.

The reason behind inclusion of the sombrero hats is unclear. Perhaps, the hat - which is tied to celebration and festivals - was a way of mocking the deaths of the victims.

It could even be a gang calling card. The Nuestra Familia or Nortenos cartel - a gang associated with North California but with ties to Mexico - has one of its symbols as the sombrero.

Sombrero left with the decapitated bodies could indicate their deaths were at the hands of the Nuestra cartel, whose rivals are the Mexican Mafia, or that they were members who crossed the wrong people.

Jorge Luis Patino Leon's Facebook page lists him as a teacher at the Ignacio Manuel Altamirano elementary school, based in the city of Xalapa, according to NotInfoMex.

Police were called to where the bodies were found, which is just a few streets away from the city centre, and are now investigating

He was also previously a trumpeter in la Banda Que Manda (The Band That Rules).

The band made it clear in a statement that Leon had left the group dive years ago, adding that 'none of our current members have been involved in any illicit.'

Leon, his brother and Juarez's bodies were found just a few streets from the municipal palace in the center of the city.

On the same day as the bodies were discovered, another man was killed while walking on a public highway while his companion was injured.

This week another man - Antonio Mota Perez, 56 - was also killed in the city, forcing government officials to speak out about the 'rising violence' in the area.

Americo Zuniga Martinez, the mayor of Xalapa, condemned the violence and called on locals to stay calm during the period of unrest.

Veracruz, the state where Xalapa is located, is known as one of the most violent in Mexico and has been fraught with death and crime since 2010 when the Los Zetas cartel began using the area to assist in their drug smuggling operations.
Six people were hospitalized on Saturday after they were stung by a swarm of bees outside a grocery store in California.

The Monterey Park Fire Department said the beehive was hanging in a tree in the parking lot of a Ralphs grocery store when it was disturbed around 4.52pm.

Officials said the disturbance led to the bees attacking several people, including two women who were completely covered in bees, according to KTLA.

Six people were hospitalized on Saturday after they were stung by a swarm of bees outside a grocery store in California. Firefighters sprayed the beehive with expanding foam (seen on the ground above) to keep the bees inside until a bee keeper arrived

Firefighters (pictured) said the bees attacked several people, including two women who were completely covered in bees. Monterey Park Fire Chief Mark Khail said a third woman was stung, but managed to get away and run into the store

Monterey Park Fire Chief Mark Khail said a third woman was stung, but managed to get away and run into the store.

Firefighters were also stung by the bees upon arrival as they tried to help the three women.

Three pedestrians and three firefighters were taken to local hospitals.

The firefighters were later released and the conditions of the other patients is unknown at this time.

Authorities said the hive was about 50 yards away from the store.

It was sprayed with expanding foam to keep the bees inside until a bee keeper arrived.

Firefighters were also stung by the bees (dead bees pictured above) upon arrival as they tried to help the three women. Three pedestrians and three firefighters were taken to local hospitals

The Monterey Park Fire Department said the beehive was hanging in a tree in the parking lot of a Ralphs grocery store (pictured) when it was disturbed around 4.52pm

One witness told the station that he was almost stung while passing by the parking lot on his bike.

'When I got here there was a bee around my head so I started riding faster,' said Michael Hsu.

'They were still around me so I parked my bike over there and ran into the food truck. I saw a lot of people with bees around them,' he added.

Authorities said it's still unclear what caused the disturbance of the beehive.
A pensioner dubbed 'Amazing Grace' has turned 111-year-old - as she reveals the secret to still feeling young is a nightly dram of whisky.

Grace Jones, the sixth oldest person in the UK, also puts her long life down to a 'worry-free mentality'.

The retired milliner, from Broadway, Worcestershire, said that although she may look 111, she did 'not feel any different than I did at 21'.

The widow has enjoyed a nightly tot of Teacher's whisky for around 60 years, and has lived through two world wars.

Grace Jones has turned 111-year-old - as she reveals the secret to still feeling young is a nightly dram of whisky

She has moved home around 27 times, finally returning to the Cotswolds for the second time when she was around 100.

'She's a very positive person and never seems to worry about anything,' explained daughter Dierdre McCarthy who is approaching her 80th birthday.

'She's also very lively and interested in everything and everyone. She loved moving around. She's the kind of person who cannot understand why anybody would want to live the quiet life.

'All her life she has loved clothes. She still has about five wardrobes full of clothes and has her hair done every week.'

Grace Jones (right) is celebrating her 111th birthday at Buckland Manor near Broadway. She is pictured with her daughter Deidre McCarthy, 79

Mrs Jones was born in Liverpool in the same year as Aristotle Onassis, John Betjeman, Samual Becket and screen goddess Mary Astor.

It was the year the world's first feature film, The Story of the Kelly Gang, was released and more than 20 years before women were given equal voting rights with men.

The widow (pictured aged 24, in 1930) has enjoyed a nightly tot of Teacher's whisky for around 60 years

Her husband Leonard, a chief engineer, died 31 years ago in 1986 and Mrs Jones says their happy marriage was the highlight of her long life.

'We were very worried when my father died because they were very close and you hear of so many people who lose heart and give up when that happens,' said only child Dierdre who lives in Winchcombe, Glos.

'But we looked after her and she kept going.'

Mrs Jones lives in warden controlled accommodation in Broadway but remains independent and healthy.

She walked into the Buckland Manor country house hotel near Broadway looking stylish in a white dress coat and pink suit for her birthday party.

'We are more companions than carers,' said Vikki Hale.

'She's usually up, washed, dressed and asking for her breakfast when we arrive.

'We are there to help if she needs us but most of the time she's fine.'

Bessie Cam from Rotherham is the oldest woman in England, aged 113 years, 86 days, and Mrs Jones celebrated her birthday on the day the oldest person in the world, Violent Brown, from Jamaica, died at the age of 117.
Randy Potter, 56, went missing from his Kansas home back on January 17 and authorities believe he committed suicide soon after he disappeared

The widow of a man whose decomposing body sat in his truck for eight months in a parking lot at Kansas City airport is outraged he wasn't found sooner.

Randy Potter, 56, went missing from his Kansas home back on January 17 and authorities believe he committed suicide soon after he disappeared.

Despite a widespread police search and the family bringing in private detectives, Potter's body was not discovered until last week.

His truck was parked outside terminal B at Kansas City International Airport in a long and short term parking lot.

'It is the worst pain I have ever experienced,' his distraught wife Carolina Potter told the Kansas City Star.

'He was there all this time but nobody bothered to look.'

Potter's remains were found on Tuesday after airport police reported an odor coming from his white Dodge Ram truck.

Soon after Potter went missing, his family say they went to the airport to search for signs of him.

His wife said airport officials told her that if Potter's truck was in the parking lot that security would find it.

Potter's remains were found last week in his truck parked at Kansas City International Airport. His wife Carolina is outraged his body wasn't found sooner despite a widespread search

'How is it possible, in America?' Mrs Potter said.

'A truck sitting there for eight months? He could have been found a lot sooner if everybody had done their job.'

Potter's niece Melissa Alderman was the one who initially thought her uncle could have left via the airport.

Alderman said they gave out her uncle's license plate to parking authorities. They repeatedly assured her that if Potter's truck was at the airport it would be found.

'Losing a loved one is hard. Losing a loved one to suicide is 10 times harder. Knowing that they sat there and baked for eight months - I can't breathe,' Alderman told the Kansas City Star.

Potter's remains were found on Tuesday after airport police reported an odor coming from his white Dodge Ram truck

'How many thousands of people drove by the vehicle? How many people walked by?. It's disgusting. And it's infuriating. It's a total disregard for human life.'

The Potter family have fired a lawyer to look into how the father-of-two's body could have gone unnoticed for so long.

They are looking back at the original missing person's report and the role airport security should have played in identifying the car.

'These family members feel that they're responsible because they didn't check it because they felt the responsibility was on the police department and the officials there at the airport,' Lester Underhill, their private investigator, told KCTV5.

'It didn't happen and it's ridiculous.'
Germany's right-wing AfD party has ramped up attacks against immigration and Islam as its poll ratings jumped in the final stretch of election campaigning.

The Muslim religion 'does not belong in Germany', said a top candidate of the Alternative for Germany, Alexander Gauland, who argued that its 'political doctrine is not compatible with a free country'.

'Islamist rhetoric and violence and terror have roots in the Koran and in the teachings of Islam,' he told reporters.

Gauland and the other top AfD candidate, Alice Weidel, have stirred controversy before Sunday's general election.

Alexander Gauland (left), a cnadidate for Germany's right-wing AfD party has ramped up attacks against immigration and Islam ahead of the general election on Sunday

Chancellor Angela Merkel's CDU and its Bavarian allies CSU slipped two points to 36 per cent, in new polls - close to the all-time low of 35 per cent when the Social Democrats (SPD) led by Gerhard Schroeder defeated them in 1998. Merkel is pictured on the campaign trail in Freiburg im Breisgau today

Gauland has argued Germany should be proud of its veterans of two world wars. And Weidel has reportedly employed an asylum seeker without paying tax, a claim she has denied.

Latest polls show the AfD at 10-12 percent, up from eight-10 per cent, potentially making it Germany's third-strongest party.

But Chancellor Angela Merkel's CDU and its Bavarian allies CSU slipped two points to 36 per cent, close to the all-time low of 35 percent when the Social Democrats (SPD) led by Gerhard Schroeder defeated them in 1998.

Merkel's conservative alliance however still commanded a huge lead over the SPD of her top rival Martin Schulz, which slipped to 23 percent.

The trend suggests the AfD will not only be the first right-wing nationalist party to enter the German parliament since 1945 but, depending on what coalition emerges, could also lead the opposition in the Bundestag.

Weidel's ambitions do not stop there. She told the Frankfurter Rundschau daily on Saturday that 'the aim of all parties is not to be the opposition, but to govern'.

'All our lawmakers should gain professionalism very quickly during the first term, so that by 2021 we are able to govern.'

Founded as an anti-euro party, the AfD recorded a surge in support after it began capitalising on unease in Germany over the arrival of more than a million asylum seekers since 2015.

epa06212124 German Chancellor Angela Merkel speaks at an election campaign event of the Christian Democratic Union party in Freiburg im Breisgau, southern Germany today

Its members now sit in 13 of 16 state assemblies and, eyeing the national parliament, have plastered towns and cities with posters carrying the slogans 'Burkas? We prefer bikinis' or 'New Germans? We make them ourselves!'

Its supporters have loudly disrupted Merkel's rallies, where they loudly jeer, boo and whistle in a bid to drown her out.

One such protester - who shouted 'traitor' at Merkel on Saturday in her Baltic coast constituency Stralsund - said he was voting AfD because 'the issues they raise relate to me'.

'Merkel said 12 years ago that there must be controlled immigration,' but now 'we have uncontrolled immigration, terror attacks', he told AFP.

'For me, she is not electable, and untenable for the people,' said the man, who identified himself only as a truck driver born in Stralsund.

As alarm has grown over the AfD's rise, Schulz, who has described the party as 'far-right' and its leaders as 'racists', warned however against ostracising its supporters.

'We must fight against the leaders of the party, but we must not attack their sympathisers,' said the SPD candidate.

'We must listen to the people who are attracted to the AfD. There's no doubt about it. They must be won back.'

A leader of the far-left Linke party, Katja Kipping, also urged voters to close ranks and stop the AfD from becoming the biggest opposition force in Germany.

'Those who want to stop a right-wing opposition leader must rely on the left,' she told national news agency DPA.
Commuters in London face another day of chaos next month after London Underground drivers voted to strike.

Members of the Aslef union will walk out for 24 hours on October 5, threatening huge disruption for passengers and visitors to the capital.

The drivers voted by almost 9-1 to strike and a bigger margin for other forms of industrial action.

Trains will sit idle next month when London Undergound drivers stage their latest strike

The dispute is over so-called 'work-life balance' plans the union say Transport for London have failed to deliver on.

Aslef say no details have been given over how staff will be able to reduce the number of shifts they work and reduce the percentage of weekend shifts they are given.

Transport for London says it has been trialing a four-day working week on the Jubilee line and is now studying the results.

Nigel Holness, TFL's Director of Network Operations, said: 'We are committed to ensuring that our employees are able to maintain a good balance between their work and personal lives and we have been working closely with the unions to explore new ways to achieve this.

'I encourage ASLEF to continue working with us constructively rather than moving towards unnecessary strike action.'

There were huge queues at bus stops and taxi ranks when the drivers went on strike in January

Finn Brennan, ASLEF's organiser on London Underground, said: 'As part of the settlement of the dispute over the introduction of Night Tube, LU agreed to introduce a mechanism to allow drivers to reduce the number of shifts they work, on a pro-rata basis, and 'new ways of working' to reduce the percentage of weekend shifts worked by July this year.

'They have repeatedly refused to make any detailed proposals to do so.

'For more than 18 months management have prevaricated, stalled and delayed. Deadlines have repeatedly been missed and promises broken while our detailed proposals to resolve these issues have been ignored.

'Our members' patience has finally been exhausted and our executive committee has announced strike action.'
Longtime Trump Organization lawyer Michael Cohen sits down with the Senate Intelligence behind closed doors this week, where he will faces questions about his communications with Vladimir Putin's spokesman.

Cohen talks to the panel, which is investigating Russian interference in the presidential election, on Tuesday.

His appearance comes just weeks after Donald Trump Jr. spoke to Senate Judiciary Committee staff about his meeting at Trump Tower with a Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer in June of 2016.

Cohen, in addition to facing general inquiries about anything he may know about links between Russians and the Trump campaign, is certain to get grilled about emails where he reached out to the Putin regime to discuss a Trump Tower Moscow  notwithstanding the president's repeated claims that he had nothing to do with Russia.

Donald Trump pictured in 2012 with lawyer, Michael Cohen, right. Cohen will speak to the Senate Intelligence Committee

Cohen reached out to Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, asking him to intervene to help the tower project.

'Over the past few months I have been working with a company based in Russia regarding the development of a Trump Tower-Moscow project in Moscow City,' Cohen, a person familiar with the email told the Washington Post. 'Without getting into lengthy specifics, the communication between our two sides has stalled.'

'As this project is too important, I am hereby requesting your assistance. I respectfully request someone, preferably you, contact me so that I might discuss the specifics as well as arranging meetings with the appropriate individuals. I thank you in advance for your assistance and look forward to hearing from you soon,' Cohen wrote.

Cohen told the paper he wrote the email at the suggestion of Russian-American businessman Felix Sater.

Donald Trump Jr. spoke to Senate Judiciary Committee staff

The timing of Cohen's testimony was first reported by NBC. Cohen confirmed that he would testify to the committee on Tuesday and said he did not know whether it would be in a closed session or public.

Aides to the committee's leaders did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Cohen said previously he had received a subpoena from at least one of the congressional committees investigating what U.S. intelligence has determined were Russia's efforts to influence the election on Trump's behalf, and whether Trump associates colluded with Russia.

Russia denies such activity. The White House denies any collusion, but concerns about the issue and Trump's ties to Russia have shadowed the first months of the Republican's presidency.

Cohen, a personal attorney to Trump, would be one of a series of close associates of the president to testify in Congress. Members of both the Senate and House of Representatives committees conducting investigations have said they expect to call more.

Trump's oldest son, Donald Trump Jr., testified to the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this month.
Two new Banksy murals have appeared in a tribute to Jean-Michel Basquiat as one of the largest British exhibitions of his work opens.

The pieces were created in a tunnel near the Barbican Centre in central London, and were described as an '(unofficial) collaboration' in Instagram posts by the artist.

Basquiat first rose to fame as a New York City graffiti artist, before turning his hand to painting. He died in 1988, aged just 27, from a suspected drug overdose.

This is one of two Banksy murals found near the Barbican prior to the opening of a Jean Michel Basquiat exhibition

Alongside an image on Instagram of this work, Banksy wrote: 'Major new Basquiat show opens at the Barbican - a place that is normally very keen to clean any graffiti from its walls.'

Alongside an image on Instagram of the first work - a Ferris wheel - Banksy wrote: 'Major new Basquiat show opens at the Barbican - a place that is normally very keen to clean any graffiti from its walls.'

The second mural, which bears a likeness to Basquiat's 1982 work Boy and Dog in a Johnnypump, is captioned: 'Portrait of Basquiat being welcomed by the Metropolitan Police - an (unofficial) collaboration with the new Basquiat show.'

Basquiat: Boom for Real opens at the Barbican Centre on Wednesday.

It has been described by the Barbican as the 'first large-scale exhibition in the UK of the work of (the) American artist'.

Basquiat (pictured) first rose to fame as a New York City graffiti artist, before turning his hand to painting. He died in 1988, aged just 27. Left, Basquiat with Andy Warhol in 1985

Banksy weighed into the EU debate by creating a giant 'Brexit mural' in Dover

The Barbican works are thought to be the first UK examples of Banksy work since May this year.

The elusive artist, whose identity still remains unknown, weighed into the EU debate by creating a giant 'Brexit mural' in Dover.

The piece depicts a workman chipping away at one of the 12 golden stars of the the European Union flag.

Banksy laid claim to the creation on his Instagram page, after it appeared on the side of a house in the Kent port overnight.
Bartolomeo Joly de Lotbiniere, 21, pictured arrive at Bradford Crown Court today, is charged with raping the student when she was 19

A student who appeared on University Challenge told a teenage girl he wanted to help her 'get over her ex-boyfriend' - as he held her down and allegedly raped her, a court heard today.

York University student Bartolomeo Joly de Lotbiniere, 21, who was 18 at the time of the alleged rape, told the teenager that he had 'fantasised' about having sex with her after a drunken night out together in June 2014.

The court also heard that Joly de Lotbiniere told the alleged victim, who was 19, now 22, that she needed to teach him how to have sex while he was assaulting her.

She alleges that he followed her to the bathroom opposite her bedroom at her halls of residence before trying to kiss her and telling her he wanted to have sex with her.

He then carried her back to her room, stripping off her clothes and 'forced' himself on her, the court heard.

The alleged victim claims he told her he was 'helping her get over her ex-boyfriend' while he sexually assaulted her, it was said.

The alleged victim was encouraged to tell police that she was raped by Joly de Lotbiniere when he became a social media sensation after appearing on TV quiz show University Challenge, a jury heard.

The 21-year-old history student appeared on the programme as part of the York University team in 2015 - more than a year after the alleged incident which happened in June 2014.

Prosecutor Gerald Hendron QC, said the complainant 'froze' when Joly de Loteiniere took off her clothes and carried her to the bed.

The victim, speaking in a pre-recorded police interview, said that Joly de Loteiniere kept telling her that she needed to teach him how to have sex while he was assaulting her.

And when he left the room afterwards it is alleged the History student told his victim: 'Pretend this never happened - tell no one about this.'

A series of texts between Joly de Loteiniere and the alleged victim revealed she was 'not overly comfortable' afterwards and he replied saying 'I was a disgrace', it was heard.

Texts sent between the alleged victim and Joly de Loteiniere revealed the victim was upset by what happened, it was heard. Joly de Loteiniere is pictured arriving at court with a family member today

But Joly de Loteiniere claimed in police interview he was embarrassed because he 'was not good at [sex]', was 'not fully erect' and she had 'to help him out', it was said.

Opening the case todeay at Bradford Crown Court, Mr Hendron QC said: 'He [Joly de Loteiniere] said he was helping her get over her ex-boyfriend.

'He said he had fantasised about her and then digitally penetrated her.

'He then put a condom on and did a thrusting motion. This went on for a while.

'This was going on for quite a while - and [the alleged victim] later said when the defendant stopped he was acting really drunk and she was sore down below.

'Upon leaving the room the defendant told [the alleged victim] 'pretend this never happened - tell no one about this'.'

When he left the room afterwards it is alleged the History student told his victim: 'Pretend this never happened - tell no one about this'

The incident occurred at the alleged victim's home in York in June 2014.

Texts sent between the alleged victim and Joly de Loteiniere revealed the victim was upset by what happened, it was heard.

The alleged victim text Joly de Loteiniere: 'I thought I'd let you know I wasn't overly comfortable with what happened on Thursday night.'

Joly de Loteiniere replied: 'Neither did I. I was a disgrace, and did a very stupid thing and I am very sorry for what I did. I just hope you can forgive me at some point and I'll try my best not to act like a bloody 14 year old again and start acting my age, sorry.'

The court heard that the alleged victim thought that she could put the experience behind her, but changed her mind when she next saw him at a house party in October 2014.

After she left the party, Joly de Loteiniere text his victim saying sorry, it was said.

Joly de Loteiniere text the victim: 'I wanted to apologise to you in person tonight. I want you to know I am very sorry for what I did and that there is no enmity between us and we can move on as mutual friends.'

She did not report the incident to the police until September 25, 2015, and the police seized Joly de Loteiniere's phone.

During a police interview the alleged victim said she wanted to do something about the incident a year later following the defendant's rise in notoriety on the BBC2 quiz programme.

The complainant said a tweet posted by Pointless TV presenter Richard Osmond had brought attention to Joly de Lotbiniere - granting him immediate social media fame.

In the recorded police interview she said she 'wanted to do something' about the alleged rape at the hands of the defendant after seeing his 'quite different' name on Twitter - which is when she knew 'something was up'.

Speaking in the pre-recorded police interview at Bradford Crown Court today, the complainant said: 'He was all over social media and even though it was a year on I thought I should do something about it.

'First he was on the TV and then I saw a tweet about it and I got really angry and upset.

'It definitely got to me.'

Mr Henderon said it was the prosecution's case that the texts Joly sent to the alleged victim revealed the defendant was admitting his part in the incident.

Mr Henderon added: 'It is the prosecution's case he raped her and put it down to his immaturity.'

Both, Joly de Lotbiniere and the alleged victim have admitted having 'brief sex' together - but the victim says it was not consensual.

Joly de Loteiniere formerly of York, now of Bolton Gardens, North London, denies two sex offences, including sexual assault by digital penetration and rape.

A jury of five men and seven women will try Joly de Loteiniere during a trail set to last at least five days.

The trial continues.
Robert Hodges, 32, was arrested for murdering his three children late Wednesday night

The father suspected of murdering his three young children following a domestic violence incident with his wife seemed 'content' immediately following the attacks, according to a neighbor.

Robert Hodges was taken into custody early Thursday morning, shortly after midnight, by California Highway Patrol officers who pulled him over on Interstate 80 near West El Camino Avenue in Sacramento, California.

Hours earlier, police were called to a West Sacramento apartment complex for a domestic violence incident.

Police have still not offered a movie for the slayings, but a neighbor told CBS Sacramento that she watched the 32-year-old leave the family apartment just before being arrested, saying he looked 'content.'

'He seemed content. Absent. He was not in a rage,' the woman said.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Hodges, who is pictured with his wife Mai, and two of three children Kelvin and Julie, is being held on suspicion of three counts of murder and attempted murder of his wife

Police first spoke with Hodges when he was found just after midnight in a parked car roughly seven miles from his apartment.

He is being held on suspicion of three counts of murder in the slayings of 11-year-old Kelvin Hodges, nine-year-old Julie Hodges, and Lucas Hodges, who was nearly eight months.

Their mother, Mai Hodges, is said to have been in close proximity of their murders, but did not witness them, according to police.

Officers have also said that information is needed to determine exactly how the three children died, but that first responders tried life-saving measures on the children when they first got to the apartment.

Hodges is also being held on suspicion of attempting to kill his wife Mai.

'She didn't go to a hospital,' according to Sergeant Roger Kinney.

'But what he did to her was significant enough that it did merit a charge of attempted murder from our investigators.'

Police responded to the family's apartment in West Sacramento Wednesday night and the three children above dead. Pictured are 11-year-old Kelvin Hodges, nine-year-old Julie Hodges, and Lucas Hodges, who was nearly eight months

The children's mother witnessed the crime, and police say she is a victim of domestic violence. Though she didn't have to go to the hospital, Mai's injuries were severe enough to warrant an attempted murder charge

Police were still trying to determine whether Hodges was the father of the children. In the picture above with the two eldest children, Hodges' wife appears pregnant

Mai Hodges' sister, Lyang Xvang, said the family was not aware of any problems between the couple.

'They love each other very much,' Xvang said. 'I just don't understand how he made this choice.'

He said she was a victim of domestic violence, but he didn't know the extent of her injuries.

'It's horrific and it's very difficult to deal with,' Kinney said. 'This [investigation] is going to take not hours, not days, it's going to take a long time a long time to come to grips with what happened there.

'I'm sure she's going through a rollercoaster of emotions, so we're getting what we can out of her as she's able to communicate.'

Hodges is due to appear in court sometime on Monday. He does not appear to have a lawyer, and a message left to his parents has not been returned.

A neighbor told CBS News that she saw Hodges leaving his home, and that he looked 'content.' Mai's sister Lyang Xvang, said the family was not aware of any problems between the couple, who she described as being very much in love

Simon Morales lights a candle on Thursday at a makeshift memorial outside the apartment where the three children were killed

Hodges is due to appear in court sometime on Monday. He does not appear to have a lawyer. Above is a view of the memorial to the three children on Thursday

The great-grandmother of three children has also said that relatives were unaware of any previous marital disputes.

Irene Aiello of West Sacramento says the couple had been married more than a dozen years. She says the grandparents have yet to speak to their grandson, Hodges, nor his wife.

Hodges was booked into the Yolo County jail on three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.

Kinney said a chaplain will be sent out to help neighbors of the victims and grief counselors will be made available to the officers who responded to the scene, as well as the Washington Unified School District, Kinney said.

'The officers are absolutely impacted, along with the firefighters, and certainly the family, the neighbors,' he said. 'It's horrific and it's very difficult to deal with.'

Police have not released the names of the three kids or their mother. Above, a view of the apartment on Thursday
A mother of two has been killed in a head-on collision after a 15-year-old boy swerved into her lane while driving unsupervised on a learner's permit.

Samantha Perkes, 28, died instantly in the crash around 3.40pm on Saturday in Smithfield, Utah, after a Ford Fusion driven by the boy struck her Pontiac Grand Am from the opposing lane.

Perkes' two daughters, ages four and seven, were properly strapped into the rear of the car and suffered only minor injuries, while the boy was hospitalized with serious head injuries.

Samantha Perkes, 28, died instantly in the crash around 3.40pm on Saturday in Smithfield, Utah. Her two daughters were properly secured in the back seat and had only minor injuries

Police said a 15-year-old boy driving a Ford Fusion (right) drifted into the opposing lane and struck Perkes' Pontiac Grand Am (left) head-on

Both vehicles were badly damaged in the crash. The boy driving the Ford suffered serious head injuries and was airlifted for treatment

Utah Highway Patrol Lieutenant Lee Perry told the Deseret News that the car driving in front of Perkes westbound on state Route 218 was able to veer off the road in time to avoid hitting the Fusion, but that Perkes was not.

'As they got close, (the front driver) realized that they would crash if he didn't do something, so the front witness car actually drove off the road to the right,' Perry told the newspaper.

'(Perkes) didn't have time to react to what was happening and her car and the Ford Fusion hit head-on in the westbound lane there.'

Police said the 15-year-old driver had a learner's permit, and was required under state law to have an adult driver in the car to supervise.

But for unknown reasons the boy was alone in the car at the time of the crash, police said.

The 15-year-old boy driving the Ford Fusion had a learner's permit, which requires adult supervision while driving. But police said he was along in the car at the time of the crash

Perkes' two young daughters will be released into the custody of their grandmother

The teen driving the Ford was taken to Cache Valley Hospital and was then LifeFlighted to Primary Childrens Hospital with serious head injuries.

Investigators have not yet been able to interview him and are still trying to determine why he drifted into the oncoming lane.

'We've got several things we need to gather and put together on this to determine what the cause was,' said Perry.

The two young girls were taken to the hospital for observation and will be released to the custody of their grandmother, police said.

'Our hearts break for her daughters and the rest of the family for what they are having to go through,' a family friend wrote on a GoFundMe page to raise money for the funeral expenses.
A drunk Pennsylvania man, who didn't want to down his booze alone, allegedly forced his way into a woman's home and sat down with two 12-packs of beer.

Sean Haller, 39, was arrested on September 12 after he reportedly entered the woman's apartment at the 30 Highland Manor complex shortly after 10pm and refused to leave, according to Southern Regional police.

The woman then called the police who said witnesses had seen the same man banging on the door and windows of the apartment.

Sean Haller (pictured), 39, of Pennsylvania man, who didn't want to down his booze alone, allegedly forced his way into a woman's home and sat down with two 12-packs of beer

When officers entered the apartment, they found Haller sitting at a table.

The resident of the home told police that Haller was extremely intoxicated and had fallen into the table, breaking a glass plant holder and a glass lamp, according to Fox 43.

Police arrested Haller and spoke to other witnesses who said Haller had entered another apartment while the owner wasn't home earlier in the day.

The resident told police that she knew it was Haller because she recognized him from another encounter, in which she reportedly saw him scare children at a nearby playground while wearing a mask.

He appeared to be intoxicated during that incident as well, the witness said.

When police spoke to the woman from the other apartment, she said the only thing taken from her residence was a shirt belonging from Haller.

Haller faces multiple charges including criminal trespass disorderly conduct, loitering and prowling at night, and public drunkenness after the incident. Haller remains in the York County jail (pictured) and faces a preliminary hearing on November 1

The woman did not disclose the relationship between her and Haller, but it appeared the two knew each other.

Haller faces multiple charges including criminal trespass disorderly conduct, loitering and prowling at night, and public drunkenness after the incident.

While in custody, police said they found three Xanax pills in Haller's possession. He told authorities that he had a prescription for the drugs.

He was then charged with illegal possession of a prescription drug. Haller remains in the York County jail and faces a preliminary hearing on November 1.
Advertisement

Dean Fisher is standing in a sterile room on the campus of UCLA, a silicone implant in one hand and a hernia mesh in the other. Theres a futuristic, giant metal machine behind him, sealed with the same type of door thats used on British nuclear submarines; not far away are a handful of barrels, and theyre filled with potassium hydroxide.

Both of the items in Deans hands have been through the machine and washed with the potassium hydroxide. Theyve also been inside of people, but the bodies of those individuals  unlike the mesh and silicone  were almost totally dissolved in the very same gleaming machine just a few feet away.

This machine is called a Resomator, and its purpose is to dispose of human remains in a dignified, efficient and relatively gentle manner. Dean is the director of UCLAs Donated Body Program, and its here that donors end up after theyve been studied for medical research. Rather than burying or cremating the donors with flame, UCLA employs a process known as alkaline hydrolysis, which goes by a number of colloquial names: green cremation, biocremation, flameless cremation and, in the case of UCLAs machine, Resomation  which is patented and refers to the process when its been conducted by this particular, branded apparatus.

The Resomator is at the forefront of the increasingly popular and progressive method of alkaline hydrolysis. Its a different type of cremation, employing water and chemicals instead of flame and intense heat. Alkaline hydrolysis essentially liquidizes most of the flesh and body but leaves the bones in a white phosphorus form that crumbles to the touch. As with flame cremation, the remnants are put into a cremulator, which refines the final remains into an ash-like substance. Resomation yields 33 percent more ash than flame cremation, Mr Fisher tells DailyMail.com.

We say its just like regular flame cremation, except for instead of using natural gas and high heat, we use water and potassium hydroxide, says Mr Fisher, who began his career as a funeral director and spent 20 years at the Mayo Clinic before accepting a job at UCLA in 2008.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Dean Fisher, director of the Donated Body Program at UCLA, shows off the Resomator machine, which uses a combination of water and chemicals to dissolve tissue into liquid and leaves bone in white phosphorus form that crumbles

While pacemakers and other medical implants must be removed prior to flame cremation - because the high temperatures can cause batteries to explode - they are left intact by biocremation and be recycled

The UCLA program recycles most of the medical devices, from hernia mesh to hip and knee implants, and uses the money to fund the upkeep of its Resomator machine

The bone remnants are dried and put through a cremulator, which turns them into ash - and families receive 33 percent more from this process than regular flame cremation

The body is placed on a tray and put into the circular, sleek stainless steel machine, melting away in about four hours. The liquid left at the end is sterile and sent to municipal water treatment plants. The 270 gallons of liquid left at the end of the process are collected in an accumulation tank and acid is added to bring its pH level down to a more neutral level acceptable to Los Angeles authorities  before a valve automatically opens to send the liquid to the city's treatment facilities.

The actual water is completely sterile, since we heated that up to 302 degrees, he says. its just like autoclave technology, like what a doctor uses to clean his instruments. Doctors clean at 250 degrees for a minimum of 20 minutes, so that way the next patient doesnt catch any disease. This heats up for a minimum of one hour, and were heating to 302 degrees Fahrenheit  so were destroying pathogens at 60,000 times greater than what a doctors office does or a dentists office, just to give you that idea.

We have people all over the world that are living with certain diseases like hepatitis, tuberculosis, those types of things, also HIV  and every day, the first thing that they do is they go to the bathroom, they shower, they brush their teeth, and all of that is treated by authorities, he says. This is actually sterile going back to them. When you do that in your home, that isnt sterile going back to them. They can treat that, so this can easily be treated also.

At UCLA, many of ashes are scattered over the Pacific and the donors are memorialized in an annual ceremony.

The process, Dean argues, has various benefits over flame cremation. First of all, its more convenient; items such as pacemakers must be removed before flame cremation  so the batteries dont explode in the heat that can reach 1600 degrees Fahrenheit  but remain intact after undergoing biocremation. They can be salvaged and the metal recycled to help with service costs of the machine.

The Crematory Association of North America (Dean is a board member) added alkaline hydrolysis in 2010 to its definition of cremation, including it as a variant of the process. The method is only legal in about a dozen states, and Californias government is currently debating the issue; some states recognize it as a third method of disposition, separate from cremation and burial.

In California, UCLA is allowed to use the machine because it is a research facility and subsequently has a medical waste permit, versus being in the funeral and cemetery industry, Mr Fisher says.

Theres the drying process at the end, because the bone comes out damp so we have to dry the bone, but other than that, its very similar to cremation and all of the step and all of the processes, Mr Fisher says. And thats why CANA accepted it, also.

To the average person, he says: Thats how we describe it  that its very similar to flame cremation, only instead of using fire, we use water and a chemical to dissolve the body, instead of burning the flesh off the body.

People embrace it, because instead of at 1400 to 1600 degrees, we only heat up to 302 degrees  so its a kinder, gentler process. Also, its like a whirlpool bath  thats effectively going on inside of the pressure vessel as were actually running a cycle. So people do embrace it.

Gentler is a word that seems to come up frequently when it comes to this method of disposition. During the process of flame cremation, operators use a rake halfway through to stoke the remains; there is none of that disturbance with biocremation, and people seem mollified by anything thats less invasive.

Proponents of biocremation also point to its environmental benefits and the elimination of mercury emissions, a 75 per cent reduction of carbon footprint and 1/8 of the use of energy consumed by flame cremation.

The average person has three grams of mercury in their mouth placed by dentists, Mr Fisher tells DailyMail.com. Mercury normally evaporates into the atmosphere around 670 degrees  so crematories that are running at 1400 to 1600 degrees, theyre putting a lot of mercury into the atmosphere  where with us, were not. We can capture that filling, and we can take that tooth that has mercury in it, and we can give that to our environmental health and safety inspectors here, and they put that in a safe place when theyre done with it so that it isnt going into the atmosphere.

He also adds: With flame cremation, anything thats a polycarbonate or is plastic, thats going to go right up into the atmosphere also, which creates more CO2 gas.

The Resomator was the brainchild of Sandy Sullivan, a Glaswegian who previously worked for a company that focused on using alkaline hydrolysis to dissolve the bodies of animals

The first machine Mr Fisher ordered, while he was working at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, did not work but was fixed by Mr Sullivan, and he decided UCLA needed one, as well, because the process is 'gentler' and less noticeable on campus

The Resomator dissolves bodies at a temperature of 302 degrees Fahrenheit, which is much lower than flame cremation, which ranges from 1400 to 1600 degrees; the biocremation process usually takes about four hours

The machine self-regulates weight, temperature and pressure as the body dissolves; technicians do not need to interfere with the process - whereas flame cremation usually requires remains to be moved and adjusted with a rake about halfway through

Mr Fisher marvels at how the finished liquid product following Resomation is sterile; he points out that, after heating the finished product to 302 degrees Fahrenheit, pathogens are destroyed at a level '60,000 times greater' than the sterilization process conducted by a doctor or dentist

When it comes to dirt burial, he explains, any implant thats like titanium, any of those things  with earth burial itll end up in the ground water.

The cremation industry itself has already been undergoing rapid change in recent years; according to CANA statistics, the cremation rate in the United States jumped from 26.2 percent in 2000 to 48.6 percent in 2015. Jason Bradshaw, president of the Bradshaw Group of funeral homes in Minnesota, says that, as biocremation makes inroads in the crematory world, At the same time, you have a lot of folks that are still getting used to the big change in cremation.

In Minnesota alone, he points out that the cremation rate has jumped from 15 percent in 1990 to 61 percent last year.

Mr Bradshaws family business purchased a Resomator about five years ago, and hes been taken aback by the popularity of the method with customers; between 70 and 80 percent of families who choose cremation are opting for the new method now, he says.

What we find is that most people, their first impression is that it sounds more gentle, he says. And we actually figured that the environment was going to be the main reason people chose it; whats interesting is more people choose it [because] it sounds like a gentler process.

He adds: Its actually been a bit surprising; we did do a focus group up front that said people would like it, but we were surprised to be between 70 and 80 percent for something so new. Im very pleased.

The costs of biocremation and flame cremations offered by his company are the same, he explains.

The machine itself is a bit more expensive than a flame crematory, but the actual cost of running the equipment is very comparable, he tells DailyMail.com. We actually provide both flame cremation and green cremation, biocremation, at the same price  I think a part of it for us was, we were one of the first in the country or the world to put it in, we didnt have a lot of background on how it was going to be perceived, we said, Okay, lets put the price the same and take that factor out of it and well see.

Both UCLA and the Bradshaw Group use machine made by Resomation Ltd, a company formed ten years ago by Glaswegian Sandy Sullivan. He previously worked for WR, which was the brainchild of two professors and started out manufacturing machines for the disposal of animals. The company sold a machine in 1995 meant for the disposal of multiple human cadavers to Shands Hospital at the University of Florida in Gainesville and, three years later, then-CEO and president Joe Wilson built a machine designed for a single human body  but it was never sold.

Dean Fisher, who was working at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota at the time, had been given a tour of the Florida machine and decided he wanted one for use at the donated body program at Mayo. The facility had been using local crematories, but they kind of got in cahoots and started raising their prices, he says.

We just felt it would be best practice for us if we kept everything in-house, where we controlled from the time somebody donated their body all the way through the final disposition of giving the ashes back to the families, he says.

The other reason is, if you think about it, Mayo and UCLA are large campuses. Mayos on a large medical complex that consists of over 30 buildings; UCLA probably has 60 buildings. To put a crematory in the middle of that and to blow smoke all over campus would draw some attention where with this process, its so clean and it can go straight into the drain when were finished and be recycled.

He ordered a machine to spec from WR and it was delivered  but the company went out of business 17 days later and Dean couldnt get it to work.

Sandy Sullivan contacted him to say that he could fix the problem, and he did. But his company is not the only one offering biocremation machines for humans, and theres a bit of a war going on between Sullivan and his main competitor, Bio-Response Solutions  started by his former colleague, Joe Wilson. Bio-Response Solutions offers cheaper machines but the process to cremate a body can take up to 16 hours, rather than four. Wilson and Sullivan got into an argument at an alkaline hydrolysis symposium in February, according to Wired, publicly shouting at one another.

The Bio-Response Solutions website offers two options for alkaline hydrolysis; the human low temperature system operates at a temperature between 199 and 208 degrees Fahrenheit, working for between 12 and 16 hours; the human high temperature system operates at a temperature between 199 and 302 degrees Fahrenheit and, according the company, can have as little as 6 hour turnaround.

Regardless of who is making the machines, however, there is definitely growing interest in the process  and Mr Fisher insists that this will be the future of final disposition.

Mr Fisher says that he, his children and his parents all want this form of disposition for themselves; he believes alkaline hydrolysis will form about 5 percent of disposition in his lifetime but will grow from there

Proponents of biocremation explain how it is much more environmentally friendly than alternative types of disposition; metal and other substances seep into the ground or atmosphere through burial and flame cremation

Mr Fisher praises the elimination of mercury emissions; the average person, he says, has three grams of mercury in their mouth placed by dentists - and the mercury would be released into the atmosphere through regular flame cremation, while it is preserved through his machine and disposed of safely

This is definitely my choice, he says. Someday I want to donate my body to science, and I want to go in this machine. For other people, they dont want any part of it. They might want to be buried, they might want to have flame, but it should be a choice  and its the most environmentally friendly choice that there is out there.

So I honestly think that there will be a market for this during my lifetime  probably 5 percent or less, but as our younger generation goes  my kids love it. My mom and dad are going to go this way; theyre in their 80s. Theyve seen it, they understand; thank God we have it in Minnesota so they can use it.

Once people know about it and its catching on, they will definitely use it  but it needs to be a choice everywhere. And thats all were asking, is it to be a choice.

Resistance to change often comes hand-in-hand with the mortuary industry, both he and Mr Bradshaw agree.

I had no idea when I first started in funeral service that this would ever exist someday, but Im glad it does, Mr Fisher says. Its hard when people havent changed for a hundred years, and the majority of these businesses are family-ran businesses  you know, grandpa did it that way, Dad did it that way, Im going to do it that way and my sons going to do it that way. Thats how we do things. Its hard to change. So were trying to change an industry and were trying to change things little by little and make things better.

Its no different than when we used to drive around in cars without seat belts or we used leaded gas versus unleaded gas and now we use electric cars  so you know, people get into their habits and its hard to make them change  and from a funeral service standpoint, change is probably harder than anything else, because nobody wants to talk about death and nobody wants to even think about it, in most cases.

Both he and Mr Bradshaw regularly get calls from fellow members of the industry interested in biocremation; UCLA happily gives tours.

Were kind of at the point where theres this tipping point where were starting to see an increase in interest, Mr Bradshaw says. I think you have people that are believing that its the next big thing thats coming up.

I think up until very recently theres been a lot of unknowns with it, he says of biocremation. What you start to see is a little bit of the snowball effect. Right now people are starting to realize, okay, it does work, its well received.
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has recommended to President Trump that 10 national monuments be modified, though the administration has kept his memo secret.

A leaked copy provided to the Washington Post found that Zinke has recommended boundary adjustments to four land and two water national monuments  including Utah's Bears Ears  while suggesting others be reopened to activities like commercial fishing and timber harvesting.

'The Trump Administration does not comment on leaked documents, especially internal drafts which are still under review by the President and relevant agencies,' White House spokeswoman Kelly Love told the Post, as the document was labeled 'Draft Deliberative  Not for Distribution.'

Scroll down for video

President Trump (left) tasked Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke (right) to look at nearly 20 national monuments designated since 1996, to assess whether they should stay the same size

President Trump's Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke recommended that the size of Bears Ears in Utah be trimmed, according to a leaked document given to the Washington Post

The oldest national monument that the review focused on was the 1996 designation of Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, which the Interior secretary thinks should be shrunk

Gold Butte, designated a national monument on December 30, 2016, as President Obama was leaving office, is one of four monuments Secretary Zinke recommended be resized

The final monument Secretary Zinke set his eyes on resizing is Cascade-Siskiyou, located in Oregon

The documents are the result of a four-month review process looking into nearly 20 of the largest national monuments, those over 100,000 acres, and designated as such since 1996.

In April, President Trump made a special trip to the Interior Department in order to sign an executive order, green-lighting this review to be done.

'The Antiquities Act does not give the federal government unlimited power to lock up millions of acres of land and waters and it's time we ended this abusive practice,' Trump said at the time, calling the practice a 'massive federal land grab.'

In the order, Trump had given Zinke 45 days to turn in a preliminary assessment and then 120 days to let the president know 'if a monument should be rescinded, resized [or] modified in order to better manage our federal land,' the interior secretary explained at the time.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke recommended that Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks be open to more activities like hunting and fishing

The documents handed to the Washington Post were dated August 24, meaning they had been submitted just in time.

The main takeaway from them is that Zinke believes President Trump's most recent predecessors, including Republican President George W. Bush, designated too much land in these national monuments by using the Antiquities Act, while limited their use.

'It appears that certain monuments were designated to prevent economic activity such as grazing, mining and timber production rather than to protect specific objects,' the report says.

'No president should use the authority under the act to restrict public access, prevent hunting and fishing, burden private land, or eliminate traditional land uses, unless such action is needed to protect the object,' it also warns.

In his recommendations,Zinke has pinpointed four national monuments for boundary modifications including Bears Ears and also Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, Gold Butte in Nevada and Cascade-Siskiyou in Oregon.

President Trump's Interior secretary made similar recommendations for resizing the Pacific Remote Islands and Rose Atoll, suggesting they also be opened to commercial fishing.

He also thought that the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts national monument, located 130 miles southeast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, be open to commercial fishing as well.

Allowing 'active timber management' was among the ideas for Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters, as it used to be private land, which was often used for snowmobiling too.

The memo suggests locals worry that the national parks distinction, made in August 2016, will bar those activities on those lands.

The documents also suggest a broader set of activities should be permitted in New Mexico's Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Nort.

Conservationists haven't been happy with this idea to begin with, and were displeased with what they saw when the memo leaked.

The moves 'represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands,' Jamie Williams, the president of the Wilderness Society, told the Associated Press.

'This callous proposal will needlessly punish local, predominantly rural communities that depend on parks and public lands for outdoor recreation, sustainable jobs and economic growth,' Williams added.

Kieran Suckling, the executive director of the environmental group, the Center for Biological Diversity, pointed to Zinke's so-called love for Teddy Roosevelt when she spoke with the AP.

'If Teddy were alive today, hed declare political war on Zinke and Trump,' she said.
A young mother who left her baby to die while she partied for a week with friends is facing ten years in prison in Russia.

Viktoria Kuznetsova, from Rostov, western Russia waited until her husband had been called up for military service before locking her nine-month-old baby Egor in the house.

The 17-year-old then set off to see her friends, staying in college accommodation while her child slowly starved to death.

Young mother Viktoria Kuznetsova (pictured) who left her baby to die while she partied for a week with friends is facing ten years in prison in Russia

Viktoria Kuznetsova, from Rostov, Russia waited until her husband had been called up for military service before locking her nine-month-old baby Egor (pictured) in the house

The 17-year-old left her home (pictured) before setting off to see her friends, staying in college accommodation while her child slowly starved to death

She is said to have posted on Facebook that 'everything is OK' just a day after abandoning her baby before boasting that she was 'hanging out with Nastya' and that she had dyed her hair black.

Reports in Russia say she told staff at the student dormitory that her baby was staying with an aunt.

But the little boy was found dead when neighbours became suspicious and called police.

Kuznetsova (left) said her little boy was staying with an aunt - but police found the youngster (right) dead a week after she left to see friends

Kuznetsova was arrested and is said to have confessed to police that she did not want to care for the baby.

When he was aged just one month, it was revealed, she had passed the baby to an orphanage - only for the organisation to return the boy to her when he was seven-months-old.

Her devastated husband is said to be seeking a divorce. Kuznetsova faces 10 years in jail.
A Danish woman has been deported from Belgium to Tunisia because she refused to take off her niqab at Brussels Airport.

Theo Francken, the Belgian State Secretary for Asylum and Migration, said the unidentified traveller was sent back to Tunisia on Friday because police could not identify her.

He said on Twitter: 'A Danish citizen coming from Tunis refused to take off her niqab at our border. Police could not identify her. She was sent back to Tunis.'

A Danish woman has been deported from Belgium to Tunisia because she refused to take off her niqab at Brussels Airport (Stock image)

The niqab, which covers the whole face apart from the eyes, was banned in Belgium in 2011 along with the burqa.

In an earlier tweet he said: 'I informed my Danish colleague Inger [Stojberg] about the niqab-incident with a Danish citizen on our Schengen border.'

Theo Francken, the Belgian State Secretary for Asylum and Migration, said the unidentified traveller was sent back to Tunisia on Friday because police could not identify her

In an earlier tweet he said: 'I informed my Danish colleague Inger [Stojberg] about the niqab-incident with a Danish citizen on our Schengen border'

In a longer Facebook post he said: 'After she refused to make her face visible in Tunis, she refused to do so in Zaventem.

'Our border police then refused her access to the Schengen area. Without identity checks, no access to our territory.

'People who refuse to identify cannot be allowed to access Schengen.'
The troubled 25-year-old son of Lanell Latta, who was stabbed to death in Sydney's Northern Beaches on Monday, has been charged with her murder.

Joel Woszatkas arrest is the culmination of what locals regard a dark time for the young man, who family friends revealed habitually wandered the suburban streets at dawn and dusk with a long neck beer in his hand.

People had been 'trying to help Joel for a while, but it was having very little effect,' the man told Daily Mail Australia.

'Neighbours would see him walking along the street at 9am with a long neck in a paper bag, and he would do the same in the evening,' he said.

Joel Woszatka (pictured), 25, was arrested and charged over the stabbing murder of his mother, 50-year-old Lanell Latta, as it is revealed community concerns about his behaviour had been growing

Ms Latta (pictured), 50, was found stabbed to death in her rented home on Sydney's northern beaches on Monday morning

Police are investigating whether drugs, particularly ice, have played a role in the murder of Ms Latta (Ms Latta pictured left, Woszatka second from right)

Local children who would previously say hello to the 25-year-old were reportedly now afraid to approach him, but the man, who declined to be identified, said he was not entirely to blame.

Police are investigating any link to drug use, particularly ice, in relation to the murder, with Ms Latta's family friend noting the drug was becoming an issue in the affluent suburb.

'The problem is, there are a number of kids who lose their way in Avalon to drugs and alcohol - and just as many can go on to lead very successful lives,' he said.

He said since the killing had made headlines, debate had been raging about what could be done to tackle ice use among the local youth.

'Ice needs to be wiped off the face of the earth,' the man said.

'Addicts are just the victims of the dealers.'

It is believed the Ms Latta was renting the two-bedroom house she died at from Australian supermodel Gemma Ward

Ms Latta was described as a 'hippie chick' who had a 'beautiful smile'. A family friend said she wouldn't harm a flea

Australian supermodel Gemma Ward and her husband David Letts have rented out the two-bedroom beach home since buying it last year for $1.6 million

Ms Latta was remembered as 'a beautiful spirit' with an unforgettable smile

Ms Latta, 50, was found dead at her rental property on Marine Parade near Avalon Beach at 10.45am, NSW police said.

Mr Woszatka was arrested in nearby Ruskin Rowe, soon after police were called to his mother's home.

Officers spoke with him before putting him in a paddy wagon and taking the man to Manly Police station.

He has been charged with murder and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The 25-year-old was refused bail at Manly Local Court on Tuesday.

He did not appear in Manly Local Court on Tuesday as his case was adjourned to September 26.

Police ordered Woszatka undergo a forensic procedure before he returns to court next week.

Police are investigating whether drugs, particularly ice, have played a role in the killing of Ms Latta, Nine News reported.

A witness to Woszatka's arrest told the broadcaster officers and the man had been conversing peacefully before he was put into the paddy wagon.

'He didn't put up a fight, no carrying on,' the man said.

Georgia Westwood, who lived with her family next door to Ms Latta, said she could hear screaming from her balcony today.

'I saw a man running down the road but I didn't really think anything of it,' she told Nine News.

Pictured: A family member of Ms Latta breaks down after the mother's body was discovered

Ms Latta's family friend told Daily Mail Australia Lanell, who worked as a hairdresser, was a 'hippie chick' with a 'beautiful smile'.

'She was a beautiful person who couldn't harm a flea,' he said.

Ms Latta was the daughter of Australian surfing champion Frank Latta, who was equally as highly regarded for his surfboard shaping and design skills.

She had been renting the Avalon home when it was purchased last year by Australian supermodel Gemma Ward, who expressed her shock to The Daily Telegraph.

Woszatka was arrested shortly after police found Ms Latta's body and was questioned at Manly Police Station

'It's heartbreaking news. My heart goes out to the family and all involved in this tragedy,' she said.

Ms Ward bought the two-bedroom beach property with her husband David Letts in 2016 for $1.6 million. Ms Letta stayed on as a tenant.

Mr Letts, who went surfing with another of Ms Latta's sons and dined at the home about six months ago, also expressed his heartbreak at the news.

'She was such a sweet woman, it's just a tragedy,' he said.

Ms Ward and Mr Letts live at a separate property with their two children - a daughter Naia, 3, and seven-month-old son Jett.

Officers cordoned off the home and were still at the scene late into the afternoon (pictured)

The two-bedroom house on Marine Parade (pictured) belongs to model Gemma Ward

Friends have paid tribute to Ms Latta on Facebook, one writing: 'So sad, I miss you already beautiful will never forget your smile'.

Another said the woman: 'was and is a beautiful spirit'.

A third said the 50-year-old was so lovely and had recently found love in her life.

One grieving friend described Ms Latta as: 'ethereal, funny, kind and gentle'.

'I have wonderful memories of you, and I wish you eternal peace now that you are home,' she wrote.

Officers were seen donning white forensic suits as they entered the crime scene

A man is pictured holding his head in his hands as he sits on the curb in front of the home

A report into Ms Latta's death will be prepared for the coroner, officers confirmed

Police were seen consoling a young woman and she held her hands to her face

Officers were seen flooding the quiet suburban street after Ms Latta was stabbed to death

The Perth-born supermodel (pictured), who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s

Ms Ward, 29, made her Australian Fashion Week debut at just age 15 in 2003.

The Perth-born supermodel, who dated Australian actor Heath Ledger before his death, quickly rose to the top and was considered the industry's new 'it girl' in the late 2000s.

She was ranked as the world's 10th highest earning model by Forbes in 2007 before deciding to step away from the limelight.

In 2014, Ms Ward returned to the runway at the Spring/Summer 2015 show during Milan Fashion Week.

Ms Ward and her husband David Letts have been renting out the two-bedroom beach home

Ms Ward and her husband reportedly bought the home last year for $1.6 million

A group of police are pictured talking outside the Northern Beaches home

More officers were seen putting on and taking off forensic suits as they entered and left the home

The Marine Parade home was advertised for a six-month lease at $750 per week from October

The woman's death is being investigated. Officers have cordoned off the home (inside pictured) and were still at the scene late into the afternoon
Barack Obama is officially cashing in, lining up speeches to Wall Street bankers for $400,000 a pop.

Bloomberg reported Monday that the former president spoke in New York to clients of Northern Trust Corp. A second appearance at the private equity behemoth Carlyle Group followed.

And next week Obama will speak at a health care conference hosted by investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald.

He famously railed against Wall Street during a '60 Minutes' interview near the end of his first year as president.

'I did not run for office to be helping out a bunch of fat cat bankers on Wall Street,' Obama said then.

Former U.S. President Barack Obama is cashing in, earning $400,000 each for a trio of Wall Street speeches this month

Obama largely let big banks skate during his administration despite railing against them as the cause of the 2007-2008 financial crisis

'I did not run for office to be helping out a bunch of fat cat bankers on Wall Street,' Obama said during a December 2009 interview on '60 Minutes'

'They don't get it. They're still puzzled why it is that people are mad at the banks. Well, let's see: You guys are drawing down $10 million, $20 million bonuses after America went through the worst economic year that it's gone through in decades, and you guys caused the problem.'

His presidency ultimately cooled to the idea of punishing big banks, however.

The Obama Justice Department never prosecuted any of them for their roles in the 2007-2008 financial crisis, and stopped short of heeding liberal economists' calls to break them up and limit their financial power.

Jeff Hauser, who studies political corruption as head of the Revolving Door Project in Washington, told Bloomberg that since Obama is still deeply involved with the Demorcatic Party, he should 'forgo a few hundred thousand here and maybe a half-million there.'

The news of Obama's new paydays comes six weeks before he convenes a Chicago summit under the aegis of his private foundation.

'On October 31st and November 1st, the Obama Foundation will welcome civic leaders from around Chicago, the U.S., and the world to join us for a two-day immersive event in Chicago,' the organization's website says.

'During this inaugural Summit, hundreds of leaders from around the world will come together to exchange ideas, explore creative solutions to common problems, and experience civic art, technology, and music from around the world.'

The summit will allow liberal thought leaders to rub elbows in much the same way the Clinton Initiative  led by former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her husband, another former president  carried on, drawing criticism for the influence big money had on American politics.

Obama is also hosting a foundation-led 'summit' in late October, reminiscent of how the Clinton Foundation's 'Global Initiative' brought liberal luminaries and big-money stakeholders together to rub elbows

Wall Street in New York City is the home of some of the world's most powerful banks, venture capital firms and hedge funds

Both Clintons also cashed in on Wall Street, adding more than $153 million to their bottom line collectively.

Former UBS Group AG executive Robert Wolf, a member of the Obama Foundation's board of directors, told Bloomberg that Obama 'doesn't stereotype' big-bank executives.

'He was the president of the entire United States  financial services are under that umbrella,' Wolf said.

'He doesn't look at Wall Street like, 'Oh, these are individuals who don't want the best for the country.'

Obama spokesman Kevin Lewis claims the 44th president has donated $2 million so far 'to Chicago programs offering job training and employment opportunities to low-income youth.'

Morgan Stanley Vice Chairman Tom Nides, a former deputy secretary of State in the Obama administration, defended the former president too.

'I love Barack Obama, and if someone is willing to pay him to give a speech, God bless America,' he said.
Millionaire businessman Roger Corbett has come out against same-sex marriage in a very awkward television interview.

The former Woolworths CEO and former Fairfax chairman appeared on ABC's 7.30 program with Leigh Sales on Monday night.

After starting the interview by telling Leigh Sales he had many gay friends, Mr Corbett struggled to explain why he opposed same-sex marriage, bringing issues of slavery and race in to the debate.

Scroll down for video

Millionaire businessman Roger Corbett has come out against same-sex marriage in an awkward interview

Mr Corbett appeared on ABC's 7.30 program with Leigh Sales (pictured) on Monday night

The former Woolworths CEO and former Fairfax chairman appeared on ABC's 7.30 program with Leigh Sales (left) on Monday night

After starting the interview by telling Leigh Sales he had many gay friends, Mr Corbett struggled to explain why he opposed same-sex marriage

'It's a statement that (marriage) is between men and women. A man and a man and a woman and a woman can have a similar relationship, but it's different,' he said.

'A black man and a white man are equal, but they're clearly different. A black man will never be a white man and vice versa.

'Clearly a man and a woman together can create children. And a marriage is really a union to provide an environment in which children can be conceived, born and brought up. And it is probably the best arrangement.'

Mr Corbett suggested there be a different name for 'other relationships'.

'(They) have a perfect right to a union that is exactly equal and should be treated exactly equally in the community, but let's call marriage marriage and let's find an appropriate name for other relationships,' he said.

Mr Corbett also condemned businesses for voicing their opinion on social issues, pointing to Qantas and its CEO Alan Joyce's 'yes' campaign.

Mr Corbett also condemned businesses for voicing their opinion on social issues, pointing to Qantas and its CEO Alan Joyce's 'yes' campaign

Australian businessman Roger Corbett has opposed gay marriage ('No' campaign pictured)
Video shows the moment a man is gunned down and killed outside of his local Brooklyn deli.

Police responded to shots fired at Franklin Finest Deli around 4.20am Saturday morning.

Donovan Frazier, 20, was found with multiple gunshots to the torso.

Frazier had just finished paying for a soda, when he stepped outside and was ambushed.

Scroll down for video

Footage shows the victim leaving the deli after buying a soda. He then runs back inside as gun shots ring out

Donovan Frazier, 20, was shot and killed Saturday in Brooklyn

The surveillance video shows the victim running back into the store, falling to the ground as he tries to seek cover. Frazier, the store clerk and another man in the store run behind the counter to avoid the bullets.

'He lay down behind the deli and stayed there. He was breathing very hard and crying,' the deli clerk told New York Daily News.

First responders rushed the victim to Kings County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Frazier is seen at the top of the screen running from the bullet, as another man ducks for cover

The victim was leaving his local deli Franklin Finest Deli, where he frequented often

A worker at the deli across the street said the victim walked into an ambush. 'I saw four guys waiting behind some cars, right outside the deli,' said Fahmi Ali.

He added that Frazier would come into the deli a lot, 'he was a nice guy, he always treated me well.'

A poster near the shooting reads 'RIP Breezy', referring to Frazier's alleged street name.

The shooting is believed to be gang-related and cops are still searching for the shooter.

Frazier was among 25 alleged members of the rival Lincoln Family and Bergen Family gangs busted in August 2016 in connection with a string of shootings in Crown Heights.
A university president in Tennessee has publicly apologized after he was accused of hosting a racist dinner for African-American students that featured cotton stalk table centerpieces and soul food.

Lipscomb University president Randy Lowry invited the group of students to his home for dinner last week to talk about their experiences at the predominately white university.

Some of the students criticized Lowry for his 'poorly chosen cotton centerpieces' and 'black meals' after it emerged he had also hosted a group of Latino students the night before and served them tacos.

Lipscomb University president Randy Lowry was criticized for his 'racially insensitive' cotton centerpieces (above) at a dinner for African American students at his home last week

Lowry posted his apology on the university's Facebook page, saying a number of the students had flagged their concerns with him.

Lowry posted a public apology on the university's Facebook page acknowledging the centerpieces were 'offensive'

'The content of the centerpieces was offensive, and I could have handled the situation with more sensitivity. I sincerely apologize for the discomfort, anger or disappointment we caused and solicit your forgiveness,' Lowry said.

One student shared photos of the cotton centerpieces on Instagram saying she was 'very offended' and that the food they were served - including mac n cheese, collard greens and corn bread - 'resembled many black meals'.

'The night before Latinos also had dinner at his house and they had tacos. They also didn't have the center piece that we had tonight,' she added.

The student said Lowry came around to each of the students when they first arrived to introduce themselves. She said when they told him the centerpieces were inappropriate, he responded it 'wasn't inherently bad it we're all wearing it'.

One student shared photos of the cotton centerpieces on social media saying she was 'very offended' and that the food they were served 'resembled many black meals'

Another student said the 'racially insensitive' cotton centerpieces was just one of the issues they had raised with Lowry about the dinner.

'There were other problems that occurred at the dinner that are not mentioned in this 'apology'. We came to his house after being told that we would get to share our experiences as a black student and to have a question and answer session with President Lowry,' the student wrote on Facebook.

'We did not get a chance to voice any of our questions like we were promised. Therefore, we are upset about other things aside from these poorly chosen cotton centerpieces.'

Lowry has since agreed to meet with a number of students in small groups or individually, according to his Facebook post.
A minister today took a swipe at her own Government for refusing to relax rules restricting the campaigning charities can do the year before elections.

The Government last week revealed it will not amend the controversial Lobbying Act - despite a government commissioned review calling for major changes.

And in a move suggesting division in the heart of government over the decision, civil society minister Tracey Crouch retweeted an article criticising the decision.

The article warned the decision will fuel concerns that Theresa May's administration is a 'weak minority Government that largely only has eyes for Brexit'.

Civil Society Minister Tracey Crouch took a swipe at her own government by retweeting an article criticising the decision not to amend the Lobbying Act which restrict the campaigning charities are allowed to do in the year before an election (file pic)

And it questioned what influence Ms Crouch 'genuinely has within Government' if she has not been able to convince her fellow ministers of the need for change.

The Prime Minister is already facing pressure from her Cabinet colleagues after Boris Johnson penned a 4,000-word article setting out his Brexit vision in what has been seen as a thinly-veiled challenge to Mrs May.

Shadow Culture Secretary Tom Watson said: 'The fact that a minister has endorsed an article which claimed the Prime Minister's office blocked her from amending lobbying rules to ensure charities can continue to make representations to government tells you everything you need to know about the priorities of Theresa May's administration.

'A divided government bogged down by Brexit doesn't have the time or the inclination to push through sensible changes to poorly-drafted legislation.

'Tracey Crouch deserves credit for speaking out but the truth is the country is suffering as a result'.

Tracey Crouch retweeted an article criticising the government's decision not to find the parliamentary time to amend the Act, and suggesting the minister was not listened to by her ministerial comments

Charities have complained the Act has a chilling effect on their work and results in them having to take expensive legal advice.

Lord Hogson's review recommended reducing the amount of time the Act can restrict charities activities from a year to four months.

The article, in the Third Sector magazine and retweeted by the minister this afternoon, said the Act is 'flawed' and Lord Hodgson's recommendations for change 'fair and proportionate'.

It states: 'Perhaps most worrying, is the government's reason for not implementing Hodgson's recommendations.

'The argument the Government has made is that there is not enough space in the legislative programme to pass the necessary law.

'But given that Hodgson was calling for relatively minor tweaks to the act and his recommendations appeared to enjoy support from across the political spectrum, where does this leave any charity-related legislation this Parliament?

Theresa May, pictured yesterday at a Battle of Britain memorial service at Westminster Abbey, has been accused of presiding over a deeply divided government

'There have been rumblings within Whitehall about the possible effects of a weak minority government that largely only has eyes for Brexit, so is this a firm indication of just how difficult it has become to get any primary or secondary legislation through in this parliament?'

The article also suggests Ms Crouch did not get a say over the decision not to find parliamentary time to bring in the changes.

It states: 'The Cabinet Office announced the decision to not pursue Hodgson's recommendations, rather than Tracey Crouch, the recently installed Minister for civil society, who resides within the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.

'The letter sent last month by the sector was addressed to Crouch directly, but there has been speculation that she was keen to distance herself from the Government response given that she appears keen to start afresh with the sector.

'Crouch's office wouldn't be drawn on her involvement in the decision not to take forward Hodgson's proposals, but said in a statement that she wanted to work with the charity sector to ensure it has 'complete confidence to continue non-party political campaigning'.

'But it begs the question what influence Crouch genuinely has within Government if she hasn't been able to convince her colleagues that the lobbying act requires reform.'
This is the terrifying moment a British woman and her teenage son were chased down by a furious villager while trekking in Nepal.

Gemma Wilson, 35, a trainee teacher from Barnsley, was hiking the Annapurna Circuit with stepson Charlie, 15, when the pair were attacked by a tea shop owner.

Dramatic GoPro footage shows the pair attempting to get away from the local, who is chasing them with two large planks of wood and throwing rocks at them.

This is the terrifying moment a Nepalese woman hurled rocks at Gemma Wilson, 35, a trainee teacher from Barnsley, and her stepson Charlie as they trekked around the country

Gemma can be heard begging for her life as the woman threatens them, saying she didn't dare fight back in case she slipped off the narrow mountain path to her death.

She told The Mirror that the altercation started as the pair were around 4.5km into the 230km trek when they stopped to get a drink.

Her son ordered a black tea, but when they came to pay for the drink, the woman wanted to charge them 150 rupees instead of the typical 50.

While Gemma paid the bill, she said she remarked the amount was more than they were used to paying.

The pair then went outside where they tried to take a picture of the shop, which caused the owner to go into meltdown.

Gemma said: 'She went to the door and picked up a big plank of wood and she was screaming at me. She tried to hit me with it.

Gemma said the incident started after they stopped at the woman's tea shop for a drink and she complained about the price of a drink (pictured, the pair run through the mountains)

Despite paying for the drink, Gemma said the woman hit her with a plank of wood - bruising her hand and breaking one of her walking poles - then started chasing them

'I moved my walking poles to stop it but she hit my walking poles with such force that it broke one of them.

'The only part she managed to hit me was my hand and I have some bruising.'

Gemma fled the village and went back to the path, but soon noticed that the woman was coming up behind them.

In the footage, she can be heard shouting to Charlie to run on ahead as she turns to face the woman before falling down.

As she pleads with the local to let her go, the woman hurls a large rock at her.

Gemma only makes it a short distance away before she is forced to stop - exhausted and out of breath after running in the high altitude.

In the video the local woman can be seen threatening to hit the pair again, shouting about money, and insulting them in very broken English

Gemma said she tried to call police when she arrived at the next village, where locals told her that the woman has attacked several other travelers

The woman catches up a second time, and can be heard shouting in very broken English about money and discounts.

Gemma can be heard pleading that the woman is scaring her son and asking to be allowed to leave, but to no avail.

The local woman then starts hurling a series of of insults - calling Gemma a 'dog', 'donkey' and 'cow' before making remarks about her hair.

In another blunt threat she tells Gemma: 'You dead.'

During the confrontation Gemma can be seen slowly backing away to where her son is standing further up the path with another man walking a donkey.

Gemma said that it was after seeing this man that the woman started backing off, though she can still be heard shouting as Gemma and Charlie leave.

Gemma told the Mirror that she attempted to contact police in the next village, but was told the nearest station was days away. Villagers told her that the same woman had harassed several other travelers.

But shop owner Pasang Gurung told a very different tale to Facebook page Responsible Treks.

She claimed Ms Wilson had asked for tea to be served in her own cup rather than one from the store which was three times the regular size, hence the inflated price for the drink.

Ms Gurung said Ms Wilson queried the price of tea before throwing money on the ground, then attempting to take pictures of the shop.

When Ms Gurung asked Ms Wilson to delete the photos, she claimed Ms Wilson took out a penknife which caused he to become afraid an lash out.

She said: 'I screamed as loud as I could, I roared upon her and I chased her.

'Angry and scared, I admit that I threw a small stone at her which hit her hip. I did no harm to her other than this.

'The government closed my shop for 15 days because of this and I had to explain the local officials why I did this.'
Advertisement

Some residents living near a house raided over the Parsons Green tube bombing have still not returned to their homes - although locals are now being permitted into the cordon by showing ID.

Anti-terror officers moved in on the home of foster carers Ronald Jones, 88, and wife Penelope, 71, in Sunbury, west London, after a homemade bomb which could have killed dozens of commuters failed to properly detonate last week.

It is understood the couple were looking after an 18-year-old Iraqi refugee who is now at the centre of the probe into the terror attack, and had previously housed 21-year-old Syrian suspect Yahya Faroukh.

Police were on Monday night given extra time to question the two suspects after magistrates granted warrants allowing the 18-year-old to be held until Saturday and Farroukh until Thursday.

Around 20 houses in the street, which lies to the south of Heathrow Airport, are behind the huge metal cordon set, but a formal complaint has been lodged over the police's handling of the evacuation.

Residents who were given just minutes to evacuate their homes when the raid took place at 1.45pm on Saturday were allowed back in as of, but have to show ID to get past officers who guard the gates day and night.

Witnesses living close to the cordon told that some are still not returning to their homes amid the huge investigation.

Police have taken the extremely unusual step of using metal barriers to completely seal off part of a street where the Parsons Green bombing suspect is thought to have lived with a foster family

Around 20 houses are now behind a cordon, which is patrolled by police, as forensics and anti-terror experts investigate

The home of Penny and Ronald Jones in Sunbury, west London is being searched for clues into the alleged bomb plot

Nigel Cole, who lives one house away from the Cordon, told MailOnline: 'Everyone was ushered out and told they could go to a local rugby club. I declined that offer, my stepfather I just went to the pub until we could go back.

'We were told we could go back at around 9.45pm [on Saturday], but the cordon finishes right by my house and those inside had to wait for longer. I have not seen my neighbours return home yet.'

Mr Cole has lodged a formal complaint to the Metropolitan Police after claiming he was 'treated like a criminal' after opening his front door to find an officer pointing a gun at him.

According to Mr Cole, because of the area's high crime rate he initially thought it was an armed robbery using hoax uniform, as the officer was wearing a plan black police vest, jeans and 'normal, tatty gym trainers'.

But when he asked the officer to show ID before allowing him into his home, he was allegedly threatened with arrest.

He told MailOnline: 'He did not introduce himself but aggressively said "you need to get out of your house now".

'His uniform could have been purchased online quite easily and with the crime rate in our area I was quite rightly apprehensive.

'I asked, "who are you", he replied, "police, get out of your house now".

'He did not give an answer and I asked further, at which point he said to me, "There is no time for ID, get out of your house now or I will arrest you".

'I said "arrest me? For what? Asking to see your ID?"'

'During this time he was the only person I could see and he stepped forward with his hands on his gun and said, "get out of your house and do not close your door."'

Behind a ten-foot-tall iron cordon detectives and forensic officers are sifting through every object inside the lilac coloured house where the 18-year-old suspect of the potential mass killing lived

Residents have told of her shock and dismay that Penny and Ron Jones had unwittingly become involved in the terror incident

At this point Mr Cole dialled 999 to verify the anti-terror team's authenticity, and when confirmation arrived - coupled with more officers making themselves visible - he allowed them inside.

However, he was so unimpressed with their handling of the situation he has lodged a formal complaint.

He said: 'They handled it disgracefully. I felt very threatened and treated like a criminal.

'Had the officer presented ID and said "I am sorry but we have a situation that could endanger you and your family and we need you to evacuate" I would have happily obliged.

'I have logged a formal complaint with Surrey Police and the Met Police. If they were like that with me, imagine how elderly people felt and worse, children who may have opened their doors.'

Photos of behind the barrier show a police mobile command unit, complete with satellite communications, has been parked on the street, with an awning to give officers extra cover.

Neighbours have told of their shock and disbelief that their usually quiet street has become the epicentre of the bombing investigation.

One told MailOnline: 'I can't believe it. This is normally such a quiet street. But now look at it  police, TV cameras, it's unreal.'

Two forensics tents have then been set up in front of the terraced home where the blameless couple, who had been awarded OBEs by the Queen after welcoming more than 260 children, live.

The couple, who have six grown-up children of their own, had given up fostering and were enjoying their retirement but in recent years were moved by the plight of desperate children arriving from war zones.

The house belongs to Penny and Ronald Jones (left), a foster couple who helped scores of children. The chief suspect is thought to have been living with them. Another man, Yahya Faroukh (pictured, right, in the street), who also stayed with them, has also been arrested

Forensics officers have been scouring every inch of the street as they try to piece together how the attack was planned

The couple have opened the door of their modest home to youngsters from countries including Iraq, Eritrea, Syria, Albania and Afghanistan.

A friend told the Mail: 'To say they are gutted is an understatement. For this to happen, after all the kids they have fostered, and for it to ruin everything... questions have to be asked about what checks were made and who decided to place him with them.'

Stephen Griffiths, 28, who lives opposite the 'lovely couple', said they were visited 'multiple times' by police, and added that he thinks their house may have been under surveillance. The police were there multiple times over the span of about a month - a few times a week.

'They started off as normally dressed cops, then moved up in the police ranks, wearing black uniforms in an undercover car.

'They used to speak to Penny and Ron on the doorstep, but the last couple of times they went in the house.

'You always think foster kids are going to have a bit of trouble, but you don't think terrorism. It's crazy to think it's over the road from you.'

Footage has emerged which is believed to show the bomber with his homemade device not far from the residential street

Mr Griffiths said the home was last visited by police between two and three weeks ago, and having witnessed Saturday's raid, he now believes they were counter-terror officers.

'You need to question whether the house was under surveillance,' he said.

'I think counter-terror police visited a few weeks ago, and if so, why wasn't something done sooner?'

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said the 18-year-old, who was detained on Saturday morning in the departure area of Dover ferry port, had not been arrested 'in the last couple of weeks'.

But she could not confirm whether he or the property had been visited by officers recently.
This is the moment two migrants were caught trying to get to Britain illegally, concealed in the boot of a family hatchback.

The picture was released by the Home Office after members of a people-trafficking gang were convicted of trying to bring a total of five Albanians into the country in two journeys.

On the first, Lee Anderson, 46, and Jason Cowley, 44, were caught with three stowaways, including a child, crammed into their boot as they tried to cross the border at Coquelles, France, in March 2015.

That August, a car driven by Gillian Barker, 47, was stopped at the same place and officers found two men, pictured, in the boot.

When the gang's car was searched by officers, they found two adults and a child, all Albanian nationals, hidden in the boot.

Investigators used travel and telephone records to link both smuggling attempts to Barker's boyfriend Ilir Hani, 44, and ultimately the gang's ringleaders, cousins Eduart Karaj, 39, and Vullnet Karaj, 41.

They also discovered that the Karajes were following Anderson and Cowley in a separate car on the first occasion to make sure they got through. The vehicle had previously been owned by Vullnet Karaj.

The UK operates border controls in France and Belgium, allowing officers to check passengers and freight destined for the UK.

Sentencing the gang yesterday, Judge Simon James branded the cousins as the operation's 'architects and guiding forces'.

He told the gang: 'Each of you have either admitted or been convicted in playing a part in a professionally organised criminal organisation set up to profit from people trafficking.

The full extent of the gang's activities were revealed after Gillian Barker (pictured) was stopped at Coquelles border

'What has become abundantly clear is if this had not been detected this effort would have continued to facilitate the illegal bringing of people into the UK.'

He added: 'The circumventing of immigration controls undermines our national security. It is our first defence against terror and illegal activity  vital given the current climate.'

Despite the suggestion that two of those smuggled were family members, he concluded that 'this was not an operation motivated by altruism or compassion'.

The court heard how Vullnet Karaj, originally from Albania, had previously been jailed for entering the UK illegally after being caught in the country without permission for a third time.

He was eventually granted indefinite leave to remain and began building his smuggling enterprise.

Eduart Karaj, Cowley, Anderson and Barker, all from Birmingham, pleaded guilty to conspiring to facilitate a breach of UK immigration law by a non-EU citizen.

Hani and Vullnet Karaj, both also from Birmingham, were convicted of the same offence at Canterbury Crown Court last month.

Yesterday Vullnet Karaj was jailed for five-and-a-half years and Eduart Karaj for five. Hani got four years, and Cowley and Anderson 30 months. Barker was sentenced to 20 months.

David Fairclough, of the Home Office's Criminal and Financial Investigation team, said: 'This was an organised crime group that has been dismantled. We never stop looking for those involved in immigration crime.

Lee Anderson (left) and Jason Cowley (right) were arrested by border officials as they attempted to enter the UK at Coquelles in France, near Calais in March 2015

Detectives would later link the arrests to Illir Hani (left), Eduart Karaj (middle), and Vullnet Karaj (right) through travel and phone records

'The border detections were only the start of our investigations. As time passed Eduart Karaj, Vullnet Karaj and Hani may have believed that their offences had gone undetected.'

'But my officers were digging deeper, gathering the evidence that would ultimately ensure that they too were held to account for their offences.

'This case sends a clear message. We are patient people and never stop looking for those involved in immigration crime.'

Paul Morgan, Director Border Force South East and Europe, said: 'The Border Force detections were the crucial first step in bringing these offenders to justice. Border Force officers are on the frontline keeping our borders safe and secure.

'We will continue to work with law enforcement colleagues to ensure that people smugglers and traffickers face the consequences of their crimes.'

An NSPCC Child Trafficking Advice Centre spokesman said: 'Motivated by their own greed these despicable traffickers tried to profit from an innocent child, who they crammed into a car boot.

'We know that these gangs are organised, ruthless, and do not care about the safety of the vulnerable children they are smuggling across borders. This is a clear example of child abuse and it is only right that they have been brought to justice.

'Operations like this prove why it's vital that agencies work together to stamp out this vile trade and ensure that the children who have been trafficked are protected from these predators.'
Spicey's done it again.

Sean Spicer, the former White House press secretary, made a surprise appearance at the Emmy awards, declaring: 'This will be the largest audience to witness the Emmys, period - both in person and around the world.'

Though he was making a joke - the statement rings familiar now that numbers have been announced showing that Emmy ratings were down for the third year in a row.

Initial ratings reveal that an all-time low number of people watched this year's award show, according to Deadline.

But, those numbers come as many communities in Florida are either without power or unable to report their numbers - and could therefore be skewed.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Initial ratings reveal that an all-time low number of people watched this Emmy awards show. Pictured the night's host Steven Colbert performs with a group of Handmaidens Tale-themed dancers

Sean Spicer made a surprise appearance at the Emmy awards, declaring: 'This will be the largest audience to witness the Emmys, period' Though he was joking - the statement rings familiar now that numbers have been announced showing that Emmy ratings were down for the third year in a row

Late night ratings show that this year's show snagged an 8.2 in metered market ratings, which is down roughly two percent from 2016.

It's not clear how many viewers there were - those numbers are expected to be released later on Monday.

Because these are just the first numbers reported, it is possible they will be adjusted and show growth.

Additionally, large portions of Florida are currently without power due to the impact of Hurricane Irma.

This could also have skewed numbers and might not accurately represent the number of people who either tuned in and cannot report, or who wanted to watch but were unable.

Many residents in Florida are still without access to water, electricity and mobile phone service.

Because these are just the first numbers reported, it is possible they will be adjusted and show growth

Additionally, large portions of Florida are currently without power due to the impact of Hurricane Irma. Pictured is a fallen tree on a trailer park in the Florida Keys on September 16. Many parts of Florida still lack water, electricity and mobile phone service

The numbers show third straight yearly decline for television's big night.

Last year's broadcast drew 11.3 million viewers and a 2.8 rating in adults between the ages of 18 and 49. Both numbers were historically low and down 18 percent from the previous year's numbers.

The award show has drawn both praise and criticism from fans for its political tones this year.

As Hollywood's finest were celebrated with their wins, many of them took a turn to jab at the President.

Among them were the President's former press secretary Sean Spicer.

He floored audiences with his appearance, rolling himself onto stage on his podium - in an apparent mockery of both himself and of Melissa McCarthy.

The award show has drawn both praise and criticism from fans for its political tones this year. Along with Spicer, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, host Steven Cobert, and Jane Fonda all had moving political messages

As celebrities' jaws dropped, Spicer declared: 'This will be the largest audience to witness the Emmys, period - both in person and around the world.'

The shock delivery courted controversy, as the former Trump aide acknowledged that his false assertion that the president had the largest inauguration viewership had made him a national laughingstock.

Jane Fonda and Julia Louis-Dreyfus also both made jabs at the president and his administration, calling him a bigot and saying he is 'loved by Nazis.'
A dog that disappeared in Florida 18 months ago has remarkably been found safe 1,000 miles away in New York.

The German shepherd-Jack Russell Terrier mix named Relay was brought into a Long Island and New York City animal rescue group by a woman last week.

The group, Bobbi and The Strays, managed to trace the dog's microchip and tracked down his astonished family in West Palm Beach, Florida.

The German shepherd-Jack Russell Terrier mix named Relay was brought into a New York animal rescue shelter last week after going missing from Florida in February 2016

'I had said many times, 'They're going to find that dog. They may not find that dog alive, but somehow, some way, they're going to find the chip on that dog and they're going to be calling us',' Rick Moneck said.

Nonetheless, the news came as quite the shock - especially given the family were dealing with Hurricane Irma.

'I never, ever expected - you know, we kind of gave up on it,' Moneck said. 'After this much time had gone by, you just move on with your life.'

Moneck told Newsday, which first reported the story, that his family adopted the 'beautiful' and 'well-behaved' dog as a puppy in 2014.

One day, Relay set off to explore.

'I think she's a wanderer,' Moneck said. 'I think she was just an opportunist dog and happened to see that she could fit underneath the gate.'

The family scoured the area for hours and put up fliers.

'The lady in the gas station said she saw a man call the dog over and walk away with the dog,' Moneck said.

A blurry surveillance video appeared to show a man putting Relay into his car.

Moneck said that in addition to the chip, Relay had left home wearing 'a brand new collar, a leather collar, with her name in brass' - and his son's name, address and phone number.

However the dog got to New York, it's about to experience some more mileage.

Bobbi and The Strays has been looking for a volunteer to drive Relay to Florida.

Moneck told Newsday it's 'unbelievable' that his family will be reunited with the 'dog that we loved so much.'
President Donald Trump phoned Chinese President Xi Jinping in an effort to bring more joint pressure to bear on North Korea following its string of missile launches, taunts, and a powerful underground nuclear test.

The two men spoke on Saturday, a day before Trump mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong-un as 'Rocket Man' in a tweet.

The quiet diplomacy involved coordination regarding new sanctions. According to the White House, the two men discussed North Korea's 'continued defiance of the international community and its efforts to destabilize Northeast Asia.'

The two leaders 'committed to maximizing pressure on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions,' according to the brief White House statement.

President Donald Trump spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping in an effort to bring more joint pressure to bear on North Korea

That part of the statement referenced new UN sanctions meant to force the hermetic regime to back off its provocations and return to the negotiating table.

President Xi is not at the UN this week, where world leaders and their representatives are attending the annual meeting of the General Assembly.

But the issue of North Korea's defiance of international pressure and sanctions is at the top of the agenda for many world leaders at the gathering. China joined in the latest sanctions applied against North Korea unanimously by the UN Security Council, although the effort got watered down to address China's opposition to anything that would bring a collapse of the regime on its border.

President Donald Trump (R) welcomes Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) to the Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach, Florida, on April 6, 2017. The two men spoke by phone about North Korea on Saturday

Top Trump administration officials repeated over the weekend that the military option is on the table, and Trump said Friday he is 'more confident than ever that our options in addressing this threat are both effective and overwhelming.'

The two men also discussed Trump's upcoming visit to China, the nation's Xinhua News Agency reported. The trip was first reported by DailyMail.com.

Donald Trump has taunted 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong-un about the 'long gas lines forming in North Korea' as he claims the UN sanctions on oil are beginning to bite

'Xi said China and the United States share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas at present,' according to the agency.

'The Chinese leader said he is happy to maintain communications with the U.S. leader on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern,' it said.

Trump also spoke over the weekend with South Korean President Moon Jae-In on Saturday, The men vowed to exert 'stronger pressure' on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a 'path of collapse.'

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital - and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South - vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In also spoke by phone on Saturday and vowed to exert 'stronger pressure' on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a 'path of collapse.' Pictured: The planes over South Korea today

Big beast: A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber drops an MK-84 bomb during the live-fire training mission. The show of force comes after North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test and launched a missile over Japan

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has launched a trio of missiles in recent weeks and tested a bomb that was its most powerful to date (file photo)

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster said the US would 'have to prepare all options' if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.

The president also taunted 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong-un about the 'long gas lines forming in North Korea' as he claimed UN sanctions on oil are beginning to bite.

Trump tweeted the jibe at the dictator after he and South Korean President Moon Jae-in discussed the escalating threat posed by North Korea Saturday night.

'I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night,' he tweeted. 'Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!'

State media on Saturday quoted Kim Jong-un as saying that North Korea's final goal 'is to establish the equilibrium of real force with the U.S. and make the U.S. rulers dare not talk about military option' for the North.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) waves to the press as he walks with US President Donald Trump at the Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach, Florida, April 7, 2017

In this picture taken on September 13, 2017 Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen during a welcome ceremony outside the Great Hall of the People during a welcome ceremony for Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah (not seen) in Beijing

Trump tweeted the jibe at the dictator after he and South Korean President Moon Jae-in discussed the escalating threat posed by North Korea Saturday night. Trump also spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinpeng Saturday, the White House said

Hit: A bomb explodes on a target at the training ground in South Korea. The US increasing pressure on the dictatorship, with UN Ambassador Nikki Haley warning it could be 'destroyed' if it continues to test missiles

Alarmed by North Korea's advancing weapons programs, many conservatives in South Korea have called for the reintroduction of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in the South. But the liberal-leaning government of President Moon Jae-in said it has no intention of requesting that the U.S. bring back such weapons.

South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo told lawmakers on Monday that it is 'not proper' to reintroduce U.S. nuclear weapons. He previously said the idea should be 'deeply considered' by the allies, inflaming already-heated debate on the issue.
Underworld arms dealers who flooded the streets of the UK with deadly weapons have been jailed for a total of 31 years.

Umair Khan, 29, and Nazim Hussain, 27, were described as the 'Premier League' of firearms suppliers after flogging guns to gangsters across the country.

Using the online identity 'cheeko412', Khan bought explosives, ammunition and stun guns from the dark web before selling them to organised crime groups, with two of their weapons ending up in the hands of 16-year-old boys.

He spent 50,000 purchasing more than 50 revolvers and more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition between August 2014 and February 2017.

Umair Khan (left), 29, and Nazim Hussain (right), 27, were described as the 'Premier League' of firearms suppliers after flogging guns to gangsters across the UK

Using the online identity 'cheeko412', Khan bought explosives, ammunition and stun guns from the dark web before selling them to organised crime groups

But he was rumbled when he tried to buy a grenade from an undercover police officer and tried to get it delivered to his home in Bordsley Green, Birmingham.

Khan also used the dark web to buy large quantities of custom-made ammo, to sell on with antique revolvers and weapons he had purchased from legitimate dealers.

The ammunition would be concealed within postal parcels and packets sent from Sweden and two pistols ended up in the hands of 16-year-old boys.

The supplier was arrested after officers from the Organised Crime Partnership intercepted the hand grenade on February 20.

During a search on his home, officers recovered four revolvers, along with 15 rounds of ammunition.

Meanwhile Hussain, of West Bromwich, West Mids., was found to have been helping Khan to find places to store the weapons and ammunition.

Two of the pair's weapons ending up in the hands of 16-year-old boys

Deadly: Khan also used the dark web to buy large quantities of custom-made ammo, to sell on with antique revolvers and weapons he had purchased from legitimate dealers

He was responsible for managing the dark web deliveries to multiple addresses across Birmingham, and ensuring they were signed for by others before being passed on to Khan on a later date.

Khan admitted to two counts of selling or transferring firearms, two counts of fraudulent evasion of the prohibition on the importation of ammunition, attempted fraudulent evasion, and possession of firearms for sale or transfer.

He was jailed for 22 years at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday.

Hussain pleaded guilty to two counts of fraudulent evasion of the prohibition of the important of ammunition, and attempted evasion and was jailed for nine years.

Sentencing, His Honour Judge Carr described the pair as the 'Premier League' of firearms suppliers.

Khan admitted a host of weapons offences at Birmingham Crown Court and was jailed for 22 years

Hussain pleaded guilty to two counts of fraudulent evasion of the prohibition of the important of ammunition, and attempted evasion and was jailed for nine years

He said: 'These activities over prolonged period of time place you in the Premier League of weapons suppliers.'

Jonathan Cox, prosecuting, said Khan had taken legal advantage of firearms exemptions by buying pistols that were deemed to be obsolete or antique.

He also formed a close relationship with a manufacturer of ammunition based in Sweden and used 'stealth' methods to import the ammunition into the UK.

Mr Cox added: 'Sophisticated efforts were taken to disguise these items within larger items such as computer hard drives or motor vehicles.'

Spencer Barnett, from the Organised Crime Partnership, said after the case: 'Khan set himself up as an armourer for organised crime groups and had no thought for where or how the weapons would be used.

'Although we have been able to link 50 revolvers to him, I believe he is linked to many more and we are looking into his wider criminal activities with support from West Midlands Police and the West Midlands Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU).

Umair Khan, 29, and Nazim Hussain, 27, flooded the UK's streets with deadly weapons (pictured) and were only rumbled when Khan tried to buy a grenade from a police officer

'The dark web is a distribution channel for the purchase and onward supply of illegal firearms in the UK, as well as in many European countries and the USA.

'We use a variety of traditional and innovative techniques to target and tackle criminals who use the dark web to conduct their business.

'Working with partners, we want the dark web to be a less attractive place for criminals to operate.

'This, and bringing offenders to justice regardless of how secure they feel hiding behind technology, is part of our wider strategy to tackle online marketplaces.

'We believe there are a number of illegal weapons in circulate supplied by Khan and Hussain.

'To avoid facing a criminal conviction and a possible custodial sentence, we would encourage people to contact their local firearms licensing department should they need any further advice, or to arrange surrender of any weapons or ammunition they no longer want or of which they should not be in possession.'
Police from Jamaica say a 68-year-old retied teacher from California, Heidi Ann Muth (pictured), was fatally stabbed in Jamaica. Her body was found on September 10

A 68-year-old retied teacher from California was fatally stabbed in Jamaica.

Police from the Caribbean island nation say Heidi Ann Muth was found dead on September 10 around 10.20am by a jogger.

Coral Bay officials say that Heidi Ann Muth was found dead on September 10th around 10.20am.

Her body was lying along a dirt path in Hatfield Meadow, located in an upscale neighborhood near Montego Bay.

Officials say in a statement that Muth was stabbed in the head and upper body. She was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Muth, a widow with two sons and a daughter, had taught fourth-grade history in Mission Viejo for 37 years. She also served on the St Joseph Hospital Foundation Board.

The Orange County Register reported that as of Saturday no arrests had been made and a motive had not been determined.

It wasn't immediately clear why Muth was in Jamaica.

However, a close friend of hers, Sarah Schiermeyer of Shrewsbury, Vermont, said Muth told her she was owed money by someone in Jamaica.

'That would be enough for her to do down there,' Schiermeyer told the Orange County Register.

'Everyone said she was throwing good money after bad money. But Heidi would get a bee in her bonnet and was very stubborn about stuff. It's absolutely horrid what happened to her.'

Muth was also described by friends as being kind-hearted, volunteering as a basketball coach at local Catholic schools and helping the homeless.

'She was a very generous person. 'She went out of her way to help people,' Schiermeyer told the Orange County Register.

A funeral has been scheduled for Muth at St Cecilia Catholic Church in Tustin on September 26.
A hang glider pilot has been pictured helplessly dangling 100ft in the air from a tree by his parachute after crashing into a National Park.

The brightly-dressed airman, believed to be a man in his 50s from north London, faced a nauseating wait to be rescued after the terrifying incident near the South Downs village of Fulking, West Sussex.

He is trapped 100 feet above the ground, while his plane is currently wedged into the tree.

A hang glider pilot has been pictured helplessly dangling 100ft in the air from a tree by his parachute after crashing into a National Park

The brightly-dressed airman, believed to be a man in his 50s from north London, faced a nauseating wait to be rescued

Rescue teams work to free the man and his aircraft following the terrifying crash

Firefighters are trying to recover the glider and the air ambulance has been called in to airlift the pilot to hospital.

A force spokesman said: At 3.55pm on Monday (18 September) we received a report from the ambulance service that a hangglider had become stuck about 80 feet up in a tree off Saddlescombe Road, Poynings, near Devils Dyke.

Fire and Rescue together with the ambulance service are currently arranging his rescue.

At present the man in the hanglider, believed to be in his fifties and from North London, is not reported to have been injured.

Firefighters are trying to recover the glider and the air ambulance has been called in to airlift the pilot to hospital
President Donald Trump says he thinks there's a 'good chance' his administration will be able to facilitate a Middle East peace deal.

Trump said at the beginning of a bilateral meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday afternoon on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly that he's 'giving it an absolute go.'

'I think there's a good chance that it could happen,' Trump posited.

Netanyahu affirmed that they would discuss 'the way we can seize the opportunity for peace' not just between Israel and Palestine but Israel and Arab nations in the region.

President Donald Trump says he thinks there's a 'good chance' his administration will be able to facilitate a Middle East peace deal

Trump made the declaration during a bilateral meeting with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday afternoon on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly

As journalists plowed into the room, Netanyahu loudly told Trump, 'This is called a feeding frenzy.'

Trump mouthed something inaudible to him before he started speaking about the prospects for a peace deal.

'We are giving it an absolute go. I think there's a good chance that it could happen. Most people would say there's no chance whatsoever. I actually think with the capability of Bibi and frankly the other side, I really think we have a chance,' Trump said. 'I think Israel would like to see it, and I think the Palestinians would like to see it. And I can tell you that the Trump Administration would like to see it.'

The former businessman said that the parties to a prospective agreement are 'working very hard on' a deal.

'We'll see what happens. Historically people say it can't happen. I say it can happen,' he added.

Trump has been sending his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and an envoy, Jason Greenblatt, to the Middle East for months in search of a deal. Kushner and Netanyahu have a long-standing relationship, as do Trump and the PM.

Like Netanyahu, Kushner and his family are Jewish. The president's eldest daughter Ivanka converted to the religion when she married him. Both Jared and Ivanka are senior advisers at the White House to the president.

Netanyahu has been to visit Trump once at the White House in Washington, D.C. Trump made a stop in Israel in May during his first foreign trip.

Speaking to Trump today at their meeting during the annual convening of member states of the United Nations, Netanyahu said, 'The alliance between America and Israel has never been stronger, never been deeper. I can say this in ways that people see and in ways that they don't see.'

Trump will meet with Palestine's leader Mahmoud Abbas later in the week.

During their last meeting, in Bethlehem when Trump made his Middle East swing, the U.S. president said he was 'committed to trying to achieve a peace agreement between the Israelis and the Palestinians.'

'I intend to do everything I can to help them achieve that goal,' he said at the time.

Trump told Abbas earlier in the month during side-by-side remarks in the White House's Roosevelt room that he'd like to be a mediator or arbitrator of a deal.

'But any agreement cannot be imposed by the United States, or by any other nation,' he said. 'The Palestinians and Israelis must work together to reach an agreement that allows both peoples to live, worship, and thrive and prosper in peace.'

Offering his services as a facilitator, Trump asserted: 'We will get this done.'

Peace between the rival territories wasn't the only item on the agenda today during Trump's meeting with Netanyahu. The two leaders were also due to discuss the nuclear deal that the previous administration entered into with Iran.

'I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly call is the terrible nuclear deal with Iran and how to roll back Iran's growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria,' Netanyahu said to Trump today.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani told CNN on Monday that America will pay a 'high cost' if the U.S. rips up the deal, as he's repeatedly said he'd like to.

Rouhani told CNN in New York, 'Exiting such an agreement would carry a high cost for the United States of America, and I do not believe Americans would be willing to pay such a high cost for something that will be useless for them.'

Trump played coy when reporters asked him about it as they were booted from his chat with Netanyahu after the leaders' opening remarks.

'You'll see very soon. You'll be seeing very soon,' Trump stated.
Theresa May and Justin Trudeau today announced plans for a 'seamless' transition for a post Brexit trade deal between Britain and Canada.

Both prime ministers stressed their commitment to ensuring a 'swift' move to keep trade flowing between the two countries and reassure businesses.

The UK has been key in striking the trade deal between Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (Ceta), which eliminates nearly all trade barriers between the two countries.

And the leaders today said they will use the existing deal to enable a quick transition to a new trade deal between the two countries after we quit the Brussels club.

Theresa May and Justin Trudeau, pictured in Ottawa, today announced plans for a 'seamless' post Brexit trade deal between Britain and the US

Theresa May and Justin Trudeau both outlined plans to secure a swift post-Brexit trade deal saying they want to give businesses certainty

Speaking at a joint press conference in Ottawa, Canada, Mrs May said: 'I'm pleased that we have agreed to day that Ceta should be swiftly transitioned to form a new bilateral relationship after Brexit.'

Mrs May said she wants to see 'as little disruption' to business as possible after Brexit and so Ceta should be a 'basis for a new deal.

BRITAIN'S TOP BREXIT OFFICIAL TAKES UP NEW ROLE AS PM'S EU ADVISER The top official at the Brexit Department is leaving to work for Theresa May. Oliver Robbins will leave his post as permanent secretary at the department to be the PM's chief EU adviser. He will still lead Britain's civil servants in the Brexit talks. The move has been seen as a bid by the Mrs May to strengthen her own grip on the talks. It come after reports Mr Robbins repeatedly clashed with with Brexit Secretary Davis Davis. Philip Rycroft, the current second permanent secretary at the Brexit ministry, will replace Mr Robbins. A No10 spokesman said the move would 'strengthen cross government coordination of the next phase of negotiations'. But Lord Kerslake, the former head of the civil service, said he was 'surprised' at the move, which risks sending out a a message of chaos to Brussels. He told BBC Radio 4's World at One: 'What I worry about is the signal it send to business, and indeed the European Commission, about our organisation and capability.' He said the move was like 'rearranging the deckchairs' on the Titanic. Advertisement

Mr Trudeau said using Ceta - which eliminated over 90 per cent of trade barriers between Canada and the UK - will 'make an excellent basis for ensuring a smooth transition for a post Brexit world.

'After that there will be opportunities for us to look at details which can be improved upon....buy as a strong basis for a smooth transition Ceta will be able to ensure investors companies workers and consumers, a smooth transition.'

The announcement is a major boost for Mrs May, who is making a series of Brexit trade missions around the world.

Speaking earlier today, Mr Trudeau said he wanted 'to continue working closely with the UK as it moves forward with Brexit'.

He added: 'We are going to make sure that the relationship between Canada and the UK stays as strong as it always has been and continues to stay stronger with a seamless transition.'

The PM and Mr Trudeau agreed the establishment of a joint working group to prepare the ground for a bilateral deal based on Ceta to be signed soon after Brexit.

Mrs May was welcomed by a military guard of honour as Mr Trudeau greeted her on the steps of Ottawa's Parliament.

She told Mr Trudeau she wanted to 'build on the relationship of Ceta, a very important trade relationship which we have signed up to with the EU and how that goes forward'.

She added that the UK and Canada were in a position to co-operate on issues like women's empowerment, modern slavery and online extremism.

Mrs May's first visit to Canada comes a week before an expected ruling from US trade authorities on allegations by Boeing that Bombardier has been dumping its C-Series jets on the US market.

Mrs May has already spoken about the case in a phone call with US President Donald Trump last week, in which she raised concerns about the impact that a possible financial penalty for the company could have on jobs in Northern Ireland.

Mrs May, pictured shaking hands with Mr Trudeau in Ottawa today, is due to travel on to the UN in New York later

Theresa May was given a guard of honour as she arrived in Canada for the trade talks

Bombardier is Northern Ireland's largest manufacturing employer, and Mrs May is understood to have been pressed to take action by DUP leader Arlene Foster, whose 10 MPs are propping up the minority Conservative administration in the House of Commons.

Speaking to reporters, Mrs May said: 'This is an issue I've raised with President Trump in my most recent phone call with him. I will be discussing this with Prime Minister Trudeau as well.

'I'm very clear of the potential impact that this could have on jobs in Northern Ireland and I will be doing all I can to ensure we can see a resolution to this dispute, because I want to see these jobs protected.

'I will be talking to Prime Minister Trudeau about how we can make sure we get resolution to this dispute. Obviously there is a key role for the Canadian government in all this.

'What I laid out to President Trump was that this is an issue that is of concern to the UK because of jobs in Northern Ireland and the impact it could have on Northern Ireland.'

The row involves a 2016 order from US airline Delta for up to 125 C-Series planes. Boeing alleges the aircraft are being sold at less than they cost to produce thanks to subsidies from the Canadian and UK governments.
Aphiwe Mapekula, who was shot dead by police

A cannibal caught eating a woman he beheaded has died after a police shot him in South Africa.

Aphiwe Mapekula, 23, collapsed in a hail of bullets with arm, leg and stomach injuries when police officers tried to arrest him at his home.

He is said to have ignored several warning shots as he continued to eat Thembisa Masumpa's raw flesh.

Officers finally opened fire on him when he attacked them with a knife, police said.

Mapekula is said to have slit 35-year-old Thembisa's throat and hacked off her head in Mount Frere, South Africa.

His horrified mum called cops after witnessing the gruesome slaughter.

But officers said he was tucking in to Thembisa's raw flesh by the time they turned up.

He then attacked them with a knife before being shot, said police Captain Edith Mjoko.

Mapekula's devastated mother said: 'I never raised a son like this one. I never imagined this.'

Police originally said Mapekula had dragged Thembisa from the street before butchering her.

But neighbours said she did odd jobs at his home and was washing in the back yard when he attacked her.

Aphiwe Mapekula, 23, collapsed in a hail of bullets with arm, leg and stomach injuries when police officers tried to arrest him at his home

Mapekula was under police guard when he died at Nelson Mandela Hospital, Mthatha

Police originally said Mapekula had dragged Thembisa from the street before butchering her. But neighbours said she did odd jobs at his home and was washing in the back yard when he attacked her

Captain Mjoko said: 'He killed her with a knife by cutting her throat.

'When the mother of the suspect saw what was happening she rushed and called the police to the scene.

'When they arrived the suspect was busy eating the flesh of the deceased.

'Police ordered him to stop and to hand himself over.

'He went berserk and stormed at them with the knife.

'Several warning shots were fired to deter him but in vain.'

Mayor Bulelwa Mabengu suspected Mapekula could have been under the influence of drugs.

'I believe that drugs and substance abuse was a major contributing factor and yearn to call upon law authorities to show a more proactive visibility in our area,' she told RNews.

Mapekula was under police guard when he died at Nelson Mandela Hospital, Mthatha.

Hospital spokesman Sizwe Kupelo told TimesLive: 'He was transferred with gunshot wounds and needed emergency surgery. But he unfortunately died.'

It is the second cannibal horror case to hit South Africa in three weeks.

Mayor Bulelwa Mabengu (left) suspected Mapekula (right) could have been under the influence of drugs

Six men are in custody after a woman was reportedly raped, murdered and butchered before parts of her were eaten in Estcourt.

Police investigating the tribe of cannibal witch-doctors have found eight human ears in a cooking pot as it emerged villagers were coerced into eating flesh because it would make them bulletproof.

The suspects were arrested after one of the men walked into a police station with a piece of an arm and a leg saying he had lost the taste for human flesh.

It prompted villagers in Estcourt, South Africa, to hold a meeting, where 300 residents allegedly admitted eating humans and digging up graves.

Grim details of the case have emerged as the spiritual healers' homes were raided with officers discovering a number of severed body parts and human remains stuffed inside suitcases.
A NHS nurse who was fined fifteen times at a total of 2,040 because she worked beyond the end of her shift will have to pay the huge sum after she lost a landmark legal case against the hospital cark park operators.

Julie Lindsay, who has worked as a clinical nurse specialising in breast cancer for nearly 30 years at NHS Tayside, will have to pay the fine plus expenses to Indigo Park Services UK Ltd.

Ms Lindsay works at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee in the mornings and in Perth Royal Infirmary, 24 miles away, during the afternoon, meaning that a parking permit was not suitable.

Julie Lindsay, who has worked as a clinical nurse for NHS Tayside for nearly 30 years, will now have to pay the total of 2,040 plus expenses, to Indigo Park Services UK Ltd

She was one of three nurses from Ninewells Hospital to be told to pay 4,077 in parking fines plus expenses by Sheriff Lorna Drummond at Dundee Sheriff court.

Indigo Park Services UK Ltd began legal action against the nurses for unpaid parking fines and recovery charges. The case is expected to lead to more drivers, including hospital workers, to be sued for payment through the courts.

The nurses claimed the recovery charges were excessive and that the terms and conditions on the signs were unclear, while also questioning the entitlement to charge fines and recover charges as the original agreement for the car park was between NHS Tayside and Vinci Park - which was the previous name of Indigo.

Student nurse Conor Watson, had a case brought to him by Indigo Infra Dundee Ltd, the new name for Vinci Park, which then changed again to Indigo Park Services UK Ltd - which they argued makes the claims invalid.

Ms Linday was one of three nurses who have had legal action taken against them. Student nurse Conor Watson and paediatric nurse Nicola Meachan also fined, taking the total sum between the three to more than 4,000

However the sheriff ruled in Indigo Parks favour after she claimed the argument whether the parking firm had the title to sue was not raised at the correct time, therefore giving the parking company the title to raise the court action.

In all the cases, the nurses pleaded that they could not afford the annual permit or that it was not suitable for their shift patterns.

Mr Watson was sued for 1,085 made up of eight different parking fines, plus eight recovery charges worth 96 each, while paediatric nurse Nicola Meachan was fined seven times and charged each time for recovery costs, amounting to a total of 952.

The health board is set for crunch talks with Dundee politicians on September 29 following a host of complaints about unfair fines.
Vernon Barrett Jr, 25, was charged with child endangerment and inducing panic on Saturday in Boardman, Ohio

A father who chased his six-year-old daughter around the neighborhood wearing a creepy clown mask was shot at by a neighbor.

Dad Vernon Barrett Jr, 25, was charged with child endangerment and inducing panic when his bizarre plan to scare his daughter into good behavior went awry on Saturday in Boardman, Ohio.

Barrett, who told police the child's mother is currently in jail for child endangerment after she stepped on the girl and broke several ribs, said his daughter had been misbehaving at school and at home.

'Barrett said that he decided to use the clown mask into scaring her to behave,' responding officer Joseph O'Grady wrote in an incident report obtained by the Washington Post.

Shortly before 10pm, the terrified little girl jumped into a stranger's car and said she was being chased by a clown.

Barrett, wearing the clown mask, approached and yanked the girl out of the car, the woman inside told police after calling 911 to report the shocking encounter.

Before police could arrive, the girl fled her creepy pursuer by running into the apartment of 48-year-old Dion Santiago.

'Santiago turned off the lights and looked out his apartment window and observed Barrett standing outside of the building with a clown mask on,' the report said.

Dion Santiago, 48, was charged with using a weapon while intoxicated

Santiago pulled out a gun and fired a warning shot toward the ground, which did not strike Barrett, police said.

When Officer O'Grady arrived, Barrett was still wearing the mask and the two men were yelling at each other as the girl huddled in terror in the apartment, refusing to come out.

'I attempted to tell [the girl] that it was okay and that it was her father,' O'Grady wrote. 'However, [she] ran into the back bedroom of the apartment.'

Santiago, who had been drinking a few beers, was charged with use of a weapon while intoxicated.

His family defended his actions though, saying that fears of a resurgence of creepy clowns following the release of the movie It had heightened his alarm.

'Santiagos son... said due to the news and Internet coverage of people dressed as clowns chasing people he got nervous and scared when he looked outside the window and saw a man with a clown mask on,' the police report stated.

The child was placed in the custody of Barrett's girlfriend while he was detained.

Both Barrett and Santiago are expected in court Tuesday at 8.30am.
David Davis lost another of his Brexit team as it emerged the department's top civil servant is quitting to become Theresa May's EU adviser.

Oliver Robbins will leave his post as permanent secretary at the Brexit department after reports he clashed with Mr Davis repeatedly over the summer.

But he will still continue in the role as 'EU sherpa' and help lead Britain's team in the crunch talks with Brussels.

The move will be seen as another blow to the Brexit Secretary, who has lost four top aides and ministers in the past year.

Oliver Robbins, pictured in Parliament, has announced he is leaving his post as the top civil servant in the Brexit department to become Theresa May's EU adviser. He will continue to be the UK's sherpa and lead our team in Brexit talks

David Jones and Lord Bridges both either quit or were sacked from their posts as Brexit ministers by the PM in June, just days before negotiations with the EU started.

While his top aide James Chapman,a former Daily Mail political editor, announced he was leaving just before the General Election.

The appointment will also be seen as a bid by the PM to tighten her own grip on the Brexit talks.

A Downing Street spokesman said the move will help coordination across government departments in Brexit planning.

Speaking while on a visit to Canada today, Mrs May denied the change showed the negotiating structure had been a 'bit of a shambles'.

She told a press conference: 'No, not at all. What it is a sign of is that the negotiations are getting into a more detailed and more intense phase.

'As a result of that I think it's right that Olly Robbins concentrates on that and obviously a different structure will be put in place in terms of the running of the management of the Department for Exiting the European Union and the permanent secretaryship there.'

Former head of the civil service Lord Kerslake said he was surprised by the move, which could be down to a 'clash of personalities'.

He told BBC Radio 4's World At One: 'It seems an odd point to make this kind of change.

'I wonder how he can lead a process of negotiation and not also be leading the department responsible for that process.'

Brexit Secretary David Davis, pictured in Downing Street last week, has lost four senior members of his team since the spring

The crossbench peer added: 'I don't know exactly what's driving this move.

'It could be, as has been put out from Number 10, a simple case of the Prime Minister wanting more controlling influence over the process, it could be down to a clash of personalities.'

He warned that he worries about the 'signal it sends to business, and indeed the European Commission, about our organisation and capability.'

He said the move was like 'rearranging the deckchairs' on the Titanic.

Philip Rycroft has been appointed as Mr Robbins' replacement as permanent secretary at Mr Davis's Department for Exiting the European Union (DExEU).

Mr Robbins worked closely with Mrs May as second permanent secretary at the Home Office for a year during her tenure as home secretary.

Sources said he had been brought in to help set up DExEU and it now made sense for him to 'focus solely on negotiations' rather than running the department.

A government spokesman said: 'In order to strengthen cross-government co-ordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union, the Prime Minister has appointed Oliver Robbins as her EU adviser in the Cabinet Office, in addition to his role as EU sherpa.

'He will continue to lead the official-side UK team in the negotiations, working closely with the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, and co-ordinate relations with the (European) Commission and member states.'
Two men who worked for a company that runs the Auburn University transit system have been charged in the alleged rape of a student on one of the buses.

James Don Johnson Junior, 32, of Auburn, Alabama, and Tony Martin Patillo, 51, of Columbus, Georgia, were arrested Saturday, the Auburn city police department announced Monday.

Each is charged with first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy in the Friday night attack.

Scroll down for video

Tony Martin Patillo (left), 51, and James Don Johnson Jr (right), 32, have been charged with first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy after an alleged Friday night rape

Police received a report late Friday about a man exposing himself while standing over a woman on a city street at about 11.50pm, oanow.com reports.

When officers responded to the call, they detained Patillo but initially were unable to find the woman, the department said in a news release.

Police later found and interviewed the 18-year-old woman.

An investigation showed that the woman 'appeared to be incapacitated' when she boarded a Tiger Transit bus earlier, and that she was sexually assaulted on the back of the bus by Patillo while Johnson drove the bus and 'engaged in actions to perpetuate the crime,' the police news release said.

Patillo exited the bus with the woman, and that's when a passerby reported seeing him standing over her, authorities said.

It was not immediately clear Monday whether either Johnson or Patillo is represented an attorney who could comment.

Patillo (left) is accused of raping an 18-year-old female student at Auburn University in the back of a bus driven by Johnson (right), who allegedly helped facilitate the attack. Both men were employees of Tiger Transit, a subsidiary of First Transit

Pictured is a bus on Auburn University's campus. The private First Transit company operates late-night weekend shuttles for the university. Both men were fired by the company and are currently being held on $100,000+ bond

Patillo was jailed under a $127,000 bond and Johnson was jailed under a $125,000 bond, WTVM reported.

Johnson and Patillo have been fired from their jobs with First Transit, a private company that runs the bus system through its Tiger Transit subsidiary, Auburn University said in a news release.

The company is required to conduct background checks of its employees, the school said.

First Transit said in a statement to The Plainsman, a student newspaper at Auburn University: 'We are greatly troubled by the events of Friday night. The safe and reliable transportation of our passengers is our highest priority. It is a responsibility we take very seriously.'

The company operates in 242 locations and is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.

It operates late-night weekend shuttles for Auburn University, which also has its own Campus Security Shuttles.

The university said it is re-evaluating its working relationship with First Transit.

'Our top concern is the well-being of the victim, and we cannot stress in strong enough terms our shock and distress over this despicable act,' the university release said. 'We immediately provided support and all available resources to the victim and continue to do so.'
More than 15,000 students have been cleared to return to classes on Tuesday after a rash of electronic threats shut down 32 schools in Montana.

Police said the person making threats had been directly contacting students and family members by text message in hopes of 'spreading fear and panic'.

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry said investigators told school administrators there is no indication the person making the threats was doing so from northwestern Montana.

'The suspect could, in fact, be behind a keyboard anywhere in the world,' Curry said.

Investigators said they had been in electronic contact with the suspect, whom they said had taken 'extraordinary measures to conceal his electronic identity and location.'

Flathead High School is one of 32 schools in Montana that have shut down for multiple days after a rash of email and text message threats to staff, students and their families

The suspects efforts to convince Curry that he was in the area and prepared to carry out the threats did not convince.

'All local references in our negotiations with the suspect are easily available online or from already compromised networks,' the sheriff said.

'We continue to work tirelessly to determine that location and fully discredit the threat.'

Investigators, including the FBI, have not made public details of the threats but Curry has said the person sending them was trying to incite fear.

The first threat was sent late September 13. Other schools then received similar threats.

Schools canceled classes on Thursday and Friday and postponed weekend extracurricular activities due to the threats.

Investigators believe the person hacked into the Columbia Falls school district computer and used information from it to then send disturbing threats via text and email to students, families and staff on Saturday.

Informational meetings for parents will be held Monday and there will be a law enforcement presence at area schools 'until we are able to apprehend the suspect or further discredit the threat,' Curry said.

Teachers returned to public schools on Monday.

Classes also resumed Monday for students at Flathead Valley Community College campuses in Kalispell and Libby.
Two inmates, included a convicted murderer, have escaped from Mississippi's largest prison. Officials say the escapees are armed and dangerous.

It is believed that 41-year-old James Sanders and 22-year-old Ryan Young broke out from Unit 30 at the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman sometime between late Sunday and early Monday, when it was discovered they were missing.

Sanders is serving a life sentence for murder out of Lafayette County. He is a white man with blue eyes who is five-foot-nine and weighs 170 pounds.

James Sanders, 41 (left), and Ryan Young, 22, were discovered missing from Mississippi's largest prison late Monday. Young was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2015 after being convicted of burglary, grand larceny, and being a convicted felon possessing a gun. In July 2000, Sanders pleaded guilty to murdering Charles Kenneth Maness. He reportedly stole his wallet and truck, placed a deer head on his headless torso, and drove around the county with it

In July 2000, Sanders pleaded guilty to murdering Charles Kenneth Maness. Court documents show he admitted shooting Maness with a shotgun during the course of an armed robbery.

WREG reported that Sanders also stole Maness's wallet and truck, then placed a deers head on his headless torso and drove around the county showing it to friends for several days in December 1998.

Sanders has filed appeals multiple times since his conviction.

Young was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2015 after being convicted of burglarizing a vehicle and a residence, grand larceny, and being a convicted felon possessing a gun.

It is believed that Sanders and Young broke out from Unit 30 at the Mississippi State Penitentiary (pictured) at Parchman sometime between late Sunday and early Monday. Officials say the escapees are armed and dangerous

He is described as a black man with brown eyes, standing at five-foot-nine and weighing about 193 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to call local police, or the Mississippi Department of Corrections at 662-745-6611, ext 4200.
Arch-Remainer Tony Blair today described Brexit as a 'self harming act' as he suggested Britain could stay in the EU.

The former Prime Minister said quitting the Brussels bloc is going to 'diminish' the UK and harm the economy.

And asked directly if Britain can 'undo Brexit' he suggested the historic vote could be undone once the final deal is thrashed out.

The ex Labour leader took to the stage in New York to deliver his gloomy views on Brexit in the latest in a string of interventions by him to challenge the vote.

In a talk at the Concordia annual summit, he compared the vote to leave the EU with the election of Donald Trump.

Tony Blair, pictured today in New York, said quitting the EU is a slef harming act that will leave the UK poorer and diminished on the world stage

He said: 'I think the drivers behind Brexit and Donald Trump were largely the same.

'A large section of people feel culturally alienated - issues with immigration for example - and economically alienated.

'Communities have fallen behind.'

He blamed this on the economic crash and a sense of anger at social and wealth inequality.

But he said quitting the Brussels club will harm Britain's economy and diminish us on the world stage.

He said: 'I think it is a defining decision for the UK

'To take ourselves out of our biggest political union and commercial market right on our doorstep...I think is going to diminish us.

'We will come through it - we are a great country and a great people. We will survive.

'But I think if it is something we can avoid, we should.'

He added: 'Don't take the self-harming act of cutting us out of the largest market we are selling into.'

Asked directly if he think it is possible to 'undo Brexit' he said he did not know - but suggested the vote could be reversed.

The former Prime Minister also took a swipe at Donald Trump by saying he would not tweet out his political thoughts and decisions the way the US President does

He said: 'We have got to respect the vote. On the other hand I would say to people Brexit is a bit like agreeing a house swap when you haven't seen the other house.

'You can agree in principle 'I want to move out' but when you actually see the other house and see the neighbourhood you may change your mind.

'So as these negotiations proceed, lets see what the terms of this relationship are s o we can compare the existing relationship with the EU with what's on offer.

'That is a different decision with a different quality of decision making around it.'

He also took a swipe at President Trump's habit of tweeting his opinions and major political announcements out.

Asked if he was still British PM if he would take to the site in the same way, Mr Blair said 'er.....no.'

He added: 'Trying to reduce really complicated things to 140 characters is not productive.'
Robert McGeehan, 59, is being charged with fraud and with a theft in the indictment, which was handed up Monday by a New Jersey grand jury

A former postal worker who claimed a wrist injury prevented him from working is facing insurance fraud charges after he posted photos of himself zip-lining and rappelling.

Robert McGeehan, 59, is being charged with fraud and with a theft in the indictment, which was handed up Monday by a New Jersey grand jury.

McGeehan, who lives in Lower Township, is accused of stealing more than $75,000 in federal workers' compensation benefits.

He injured his wrist in February 2008 and had arthroscopic surgery.

The man then took years off of his job as a mail carrier, claiming disability kept him from being able to do his job.

He was eventually deemed fit for light duty, but he disputed that finding and continued to receive disability payments.

McGeehan never returned to his post as a mail carrier.

Besides the photos, postal service investigators have also said McGeehan did strenuous yard work at his home - using a chain saw and even throwing large logs, all while on disability.

'This defendant claims he is physically unfit to return to work, even on light duty, but he's allegedly out there engaging in strenuous physical activities, including outdoor recreation,' said Attorney General Porrino in a release.

'Workers' compensation is meant to provide financial assistance to those who are legitimately unable to work, not provide able-bodied employees with paid time off to enjoy themselves.'

It isn't clear if McGeehan has retained an attorney.
Defeated presidential nominee Hillary Clinton said Monday that she might challenge the legitimacy of Donald Trump's election victory if it's proven that Russia interfered to help him win.

The move seemingly opens the door to a moral challenge of the president's legitimacy, if not a legal one.

'I don't know if there's any legal constitutional way to do that. I think you can raise questions,' Clinton told the 'Fresh Air' program on NPR.

Hillary Clinton told an NPR host on Monday that she's not ruling out the possibility of publicly questioning the fairness of Donald Trump's White House win

Clinton said during a 2016 debate that it would be 'horrifying' to refuse to accept the results of a presidential election after Trump hedged on the idea, but now she's the one airing doubts

Host Terry Gross asked the Democrat if she would 'completely rule out questioning the legitimacy of this election if we learn that the Russian interference in the election is even deeper than we know now?'

'No. I would not,' Clinton replied.

'You're not going to rule it out,' Gross repeated for emphasis.

'No. I wouldn't rule it out,' Clinton said.

But she added that there's no constitutional 'mechanism' that could reopen the election.

Clinton critized Trump last year for being unwilling to say he would accept the outcome of the election no matter how it turned out.

Asked during the final presidential debate if he would accept second place, he responded: 'I will look at it at the time.'

'What I'm saying is that I will tell you at the time. I'll keep you in suspense.'

In the final presidential debate, Trump wouldn't say he could accept losing  an idea that put Clinton on the attack

Clinton seemed to resign herself to defeat on November 9, 2016, telling supporters that she was conceding the race

Clinton called that comment 'horrifying' and said that 'this is how Donald thinks  and it's funny, but it's also really troubling. That is not the way our democracy works.'

'We've been around 240 years. We've had free and fair elections and we've accepted the outcomes when we may not have liked them,' Clinton continued, 'and that is what must be expected of anyone standing on a debate stage during a general election.'

Trump frequently said on the campaign trail that he suspected the election would be 'rigged' against him, and that he wanted to defeat Clinton by a sizable margin in order to remove any doubt about the outcome.

He announced in an Ohio rally the day after that final debate that he would 'totally accept the results of this great and historic presidential election  if I win.'

'Of course I would accept a clear election result, but I would also reserve my right to contest or file a legal challenge in the case of a questionable result,' Trump said.

'I will follow and abide by all the rules and traditions of all of the many candidates who came before me, always.'

Clinton spokesman Glen Caplin said Monday in a statement that the former candidate 'has said repeatedly the results of the election are over but we have to learn what happened.'

Clinton is currently on a book tour promoting 'What Happened,' her autopsy of the 2016 election and how she let the White House slip away.
President Donald Trump says he's planning a grand military parade to celebrate the nation's independence that will snake down Washington's main thoroughfare.

Trump was so impressed by the military parade he attended in Paris on Bastille Day in July, he told French President Emmanuel Macron he's looking at the logistics of having a Pennsylvania Avenue procession just like it.

'We may do something like that on July 4th in Washington, down Pennsylvania Avenue,' Trump told Macron on Monday afternoon. 'We're going to have to try and top it.'

The president said he'd like to have a 'really great parade to show our military strength' and that he's been sizing up the prospect since his experience in Paris.

Scroll down for video

President Donald Trump says he's planning a grand military parade to celebrate the nation's independence that will snake down Washington's main thoroughfare

U.S troops march down the Champs-Elysees avenue during the traditional Bastille day military parade on July 14, 2017 in Paris. The French National day coincided this year the 100th anniversary of the entry of the United States of America into World War I

Macron's guest at this year's Bastille Day celebration, the U.S. president and the newly-elected leader of France sat side-by-side at at two-hour display that featured military flyover and a procession down the Champs-Elysees

Trump has bet hot on the tail of a military parade for some time now. He floated the idea in a January interview just before his inauguration.

Macron's guest at this year's Bastille Day celebration, the U.S. president and the newly-elected leader of France sat side-by-side at at two-hour display that featured military flyover and a procession down the Champs-Elysees in July.

The holiday coincided this year with the 100th anniversary of the United States' entry into WWI. As such, U.S. planes and troops participated in the July 14 demonstration.

Macron arrived at the VIP viewing booth that he would sit and watch the spectacle from with Trump in a military jeep.

'We had a lot of planes going over and we had a lot of military might, and it was really a beautiful thing to see,' Trump said reminiscing this afternoon with Macron. 'They had representatives from different wars and different uniforms. It was really so well done.'

Trump told his counterpart during their meeting that took place United Nations, 'It was one of the greatest parades I've ever seen. It was two hours on the button, and it was military might, and I think a tremendous thing for France and for the spirit of France.'

A parade down Pennsylvania Avenue to show off the United States' military might has been on Trump's mind for some time now.

He told the Washington Post in January that he'd like to have a military parade as part of his campaign to 'Make America Great Again.'

'That military may come marching down Pennsylvania Avenue. That military may be flying over New York City and Washington, D.C., for parades. I mean, were going to be showing our military,' he told the Washington Post then.

The then-president in waiting, Trump reportedly requested tanks and missile launchers at at his inaugural parade. The Pentagon turned him down, the Huffington Post reported.

'They were legit thinking Red Square/North Korea-style parade,' a source told the news publication.

Red Square is the focal point of Russia's Victory Day Parade in Moscow. The May 9 event celebrates the fall of Nazi Germany on that date in 1945.

A parade down Pennsylvania Avenue to show off the United States' military might has been on Trump's mind for some time now. He wanted a flyover like the one at Bastille Day for his inauguration, but bad weather interfered

Trump's request was denied, the Huffington Post said, because the show of force was considered bad optics. Having tanks roll down the streets of D.C. was also determined to be structurally challenging. Tanks like the ones Trump is envisioning weigh 100,000 pounds.

The incoming president wanted a flyover for his inauguration, but that was called off, the Huffington Post said, because of bad weather.

A spokesperson for the Pentagon said the Air Force planned to fly four fighter jets overhead, an F-35, an F-16, an F-22 and an F-15E. The Navy was supposed to man four F/A-18 combat jets in the pass over.

The Army was to contribute four UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The Marines were down for four V-22 Ospreys. The Coast Guard was looking to fly four MH-65 rescue helicopters overhead, Maj. Jamie Davis said.

Trump said he's held further talks about a military parade that would run right by the White House - and his D.C. hotel, both of which are on Pennsylvania Avenue - next Fourth of July.

'I'm speaking with General Kelly and with all of the people involved, and we'll see if we can do it this year. But we certainly will be beginning to do that,' he said, talking about his chief of staff.

The construction of a secure viewing facility for the president and other White House officials like the one that's set up every four years for the inauguration takes months for construction workers to build. Access to Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House would close down in the spring and stay closed down until the structure could be removed.

Brian Hook, a senior State Department official, said Monday after Trump's comments that the president was very inspired' by what he saw in Paris.

'He I think took away a lot of good examples from that,' he told DailyMail.com. 'What will happen in the future unclear, but he was very inspired by it,' Hook added.

His answer suggested that Trump's parade may be a long way off.
Sarah Cundy, from Canterbury, Kent, said she would rather have solidarity with North Korea than the USA

A Labour youth officer has sparked outrage online after she expressed 'solidarity' with North Korea.

Sarah Cundy, 18, is chair of Canterbury Momentum - a grassroots group which backs leader Jeremy Corbyn - and said she would 'rather have solidarity with North Korea than the USA'.

The teenager was criticised after a picture of the North Korean flag appeared on her Twitter page which she has since removed.

The youth officer of the Canterbury Constituency Labour Party also displayed the flags of Venezuela, Cuba and Palestine on her profile.

It comes as North Korea and its supreme leader Kim Jong-un have faced international condemnation for missiles tests and nuclear weapons programmes.

She posted online: 'The flags in my bio represent countries I have solidarity with. I have solidarity with countries willing to stand up to imperialism.

'The DPRK [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] have weapons to keep themselves and their population safe from invasion - they don't want to end up like Libya.

'I do not endorse their strikes over Japan but three million Korean people were killed in the Korean War by America, I'd rather have solidarity with DPRK than the USA.'

Miss Cundy, from Canterbury, Kent, faced a backlash online with Twitter users questioning her stance on North Korea.

Critics on the social media site accused her of being a 'friend of dictatorship'.

Sarah Cundy (pictured) caused controversy when she had a picture of a North Korean flag on her Twitter profile

The teenager tweeted that she would rather have solidarity with North Korea than America

Emma Wasp wrote: 'Happy to see you are aligned with a communist dictatorship which aspires to kill 51 million in a nuclear war.'

Miss Cundy, who was educated at the Simon Langton Girls' Grammar School, was mortified and apologised if she offended anyone.

She told MailOnline: 'I really regret my comments and apologise if I've caused anyone any offence.

'As somebody who believes strongly in democracy I am not supportive of oppressive regimes, and the flag was intended in support of the citizens.

'I would also ask people to remember some of the silly things they said and did when they were 18 and regard my comments in the same light.'

A Momentum spokesperson added: 'What she has said isn't in line with Momentum's view and is not representative of the views of Momentum's membership.

'While she regrets her comments, we are currently investigating these comments and will take appropriate action based on our code of ethics and constitution.'
Yohann Ramchelawon, 30, was jailed for 15 years after being found guilty of 14 sexual offences, including sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl

An sexual predator who posed as a Justin Bieber lookalike in order to sexually assault a six-year-old girl and coax underage teenagers into sending him webcam images has been jailed for 15 years.

Yohann Ramchelawon set up fake accounts on social media websites Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and Skype with pictures he stole from the internet in order to groom girls aged 12 and 17 from around the world.

The 30-year-old - who is originally from Mauritius and wanted for immigration offences - asked girls to send nudes pictures while using a profile picture of a boy aged around 16 who police described as resembling 'a young Justin Bieber'.

Once he enticed the youngsters to send indecent images of themselves to him, he then forced them to perform sex acts on camera by threatening to send their inappropriate images to family and friends if they did not meet his demands.

Ramchelawon tried to deny his crimes originally in court but changed his plea, yet was jailed for 14 sexual offences, including sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl.

Judge John Wait said: 'I'm satisfied from your conduct that you have a perverted sexual attraction to very young girls.

'The consequence of your conduct has been awful and you present a significant risk of serious harm of further offending unless restrained. You are a dangerous offender and need to be sentenced as such.'

Ramchelawon, who was on bail for similar offences at the time, was finally caught after West Midlands Police tracked the phone he used to message a 12-year-old girl to a house in Walsall, West Midlands, where he was living at the time.

The predator used a picture of a boy who looked like the popstar to groom his victims

The young girl, from Manchester, felt 'disgusted' with herself after finding out Ramchelawon was not who he claimed to be. He was caught at a property in Huddersfield in March this year.

Police then found hundreds of indecent images of young girls on a number of his devices, with victims coming from Coventry, Walsall, Liverpool, St Ives, East Ham and Lanark in Scotland, the court heard.

Further examination revealed he had also reached out to girls living as far away as New Zealand, Brazil, Russia and United Arab Emirates.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Kerry Haywood from West Midlands Police's Public Protection Unit, said: 'He used various aliases including Ryan Smith and 'Santiago' and claimed to be a teenager who was sending messages during school or college lessons.

'He sent poems, would call them "baby" and tell them he loved them after chatting online for little more than a day.'

She added: 'The enquiry started when a girl from Manchester reported to police that a boy named Ryan was asking for intimate images. The investigation soon snowballed and we identified many more victims and online conversations with girls in different countries.

'I'd like to thank that 12-year-old girl for breaking her silence and putting her faith in the police. It's helped us put a calculating sex predator behind bars and undoubtedly protected other girls for falling into his trap.'

DC Haywood also appealed to parents to closely monitor their children's online activity.

Ramchelawon set up fake social media accounts using false names and pictures and coaxed young girls into sending him indecent images of themselves

She added: 'You need to be absolutely certain who you're talking to online. Your son or daughter may believe they're chatting with another teenager but, in reality, it could be someone much older with sinister intentions.

'Parents shouldn't feel awkward asking their children what they're up to online and who they're conversing with on social media. Perhaps have an agreement that they only use the internet in an overt manner, in the living room, rather than squirreled away in their bedrooms.

'And ask whether your child really needs a webcam in their bedroom? If a child is persuaded to expose themselves in front of a camera then they've lost control of that image or video and it could be floating around online forever.'

Once released Ramchelawon will serve the rest of his sentence on licence. Once his normal licence period has ended, he will be subject to a further five years on licence. He will be subject to recall to prison if he breaches any of the terms of his release.

He was also ordered to sign the sexual offenders register for life.
Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer said he 'absolutely' regrets the televised tirade he gave the media on his first full day on the job about the size of President Trump's inauguration crowd.

Spicer shared his regret with the New York Times the day after he made a self-mocking appearance for the Emmy Awards where he essentially played himself and made outlandish claims about the size of the TV program's viewing audience.

The real-life performance Spicer turned in the day after Trump's inauguration set the combative tone for his tenure, as he berated reporters and claimed falsely: 'This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration  period  both in person and around the globe.'

On Monday, Spicer told the Times: 'Of course I do, absolutely' regret his inaugural crowd claim.

Sean Spicer was wheeled out during Stephen Colbert's opening monologue to the shock of celebrities sitting in the audience at the Microsoft Theater in LA Sunday

Spicer didn't betray any concern that President Trump would be offended by the skit, which some commentators have said acknowledged he wasn't truthful during his job. He is currently on the paid speaking circuit.

'I certainly hope not,' Spicer said. 'This was an attempt to poke a little fun at myself and add a little bit of levity to the event.'

Spicer made a surprise cameo appearance at the 69th Emmys and helped Stephen Colbert mock his old boss President Trump.

After Colbert engaged in a series of jokes at Trump's expense, Spicer got wheeled out on a mobile White House podium of the kind that Melissa McCarthy used in her own savage impersonation of him on 'Saturday Night Live.

He then re-created his now infamous Trump inauguration claim that it was biggest attendance in history.

Spicer said he hoped President Donald Trump wouldn't be offended by the skit. 'This was an attempt to poke a little fun at myself and add a little bit of levity to the event,' he said

Spicer appeared after Colbert unleashed a blistering string of jabs about Trump, calling him a 'morally corrupt anti-hero,' a 'whiter Walter White', poking fun at his obsession with ratings and tweeting.

The Late Show host also performed a song which included the lyrics 'treason is better on TV', while flashing a shot of Trump and Vladimir Putin, and 'Imagine if your president was not beloved by Nazis'. He also took a shot at his failure to win the popular vote during the election.

Spicer has taken steps in the pass to walk back his remarks, but without going so far.

'Our intention is never to lie to you,' Spicer told reporters at the White House a few days after his infamous claims. 'You're in the same boat: I mean, there are times when you guys tweet something out or write a story and you publish a correction. That doesn't mean that you were intentionally trying to deceive readers and the American people, does it? And I think that we should be afforded the same opportunity.'

Stephen Colbert cracked that if Donald Trump had gotten an Emmy for 'The Apprentice' maybe he wouldn't have run for President

McCarthy was surprised to see her SNL 'doppelganger' wheeled onstage. She led the star-studded audience in their shock at the former press secretary's cameo

'There are times when we believe something to be true or we get something from an agency or we act in haste because the information available wasn't complete, but our desire to communicate with the American people and make sure that you have the most complete story at the time, and so we do it. But, again, I think that when you look net-net, we're going to do our best every time we can. I'm going to come out here and tell you the facts as I know them, and if we make a mistake, I'll do our best to correct it.'

But Spicer also defended his claim by saying that tens of people were watching the event online.

'It's unquestionable,' Spicer said then. 'And I don't see any numbers that dispute that when you add up attendance, viewership, total audience in terms of tablets, phones, on television. I'd love to see any information that proves that otherwise.'

Spicer and Colbert were joined by a long line of celebrities who criticized the president and his policies throughout the three-hour CBS broadcast, where politics was placed firmly in the spotlight.

Jane Fonda called him a bigot, Alec Baldwin ridiculed his failure to win an Emmy, Donald Glover he accused him of oppressing black people and Julia Louis-Dreyfus made an impeachment joke.

Scroll for video

Veep star Anna Chlumsky's face summed up the audience's reaction as Spicer was wheeled onstage behind the podium

EVERY JOKE AND JAB AT TRUMP AT THE EMMYS Colbert's opening monologue took a more benevolent turn when he urged people to keep donations coming to those in need after hurricanes ravaged both Florida and Texas STEPHEN COLBERT 'Of course, there's no way anyone could possibly watch that much TV, other than the president, who seems to have a lot of time for that sort of thing. Hello sir, thank you for joining us! Looking forward to the tweets. 'We know that the biggest TV star of the last year is Donald Trump. No, we may not like it, but he's the biggest star. And you know, Alec Baldwin, obviously. You guys are neck and neck. And Alec, you're up against a lot of neck. 'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way. 'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story'. 'We all know that the Emmys mean a lot to Donald Trump because he was nominated multiple times for 'Celebrity Apprentice,' but he never won. Why didn't you give him an Emmy? I'll tell you this  if he had won an Emmy, I bet he wouldn't have run for president. So this is all your fault. I thought you people love morally compromised antiheroes. You like Walter White. 'And he never forgave you, and he never will. The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Camera pans to Meyers, with marbles falling out of his mouth). 'And even during the campaign, he wouldn't let it go. This actually happened, this exchange actually happened in the debates. (Goes to video showing Clinton mentioning Trump's Emmy loss in debate) 'But he didn't. Because unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote. Where do I find the courage to tell that joke in this room? Of course, what really matters to Donald Trump is ratings. He's got to have the big numbers, and I certainly hope we achieve that tonight. 'Unfortunately, at this point, we have no way of knowing how big our audience is. I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know? (Moment Sean Spicer comes out on podium). 'The Americans has hotter spies than the Russia inquiry, even treason's better on TV' In a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.' SEAN SPICER 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.' Sean Spicer in a nod to the former WH flack's now infamous claim President Trump's crowd was the largest in history.' COLBERT RESPONDS: 'Wow, that really soothes my fragile ego. I can understand why you'd want one of these guys around. Melissa McCarthy everyone, give it up! Beautiful.' 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Veep star Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song. 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.' ALEC BALDWIN 'I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,' Baldwin said while accepting the award for his portrayal of the President on SNL. 'Orange wig proved to be effective' birth control, cracked Baldwin during his acceptance speech after he said he and wife Hilaria haven't had a child in three years. JANE FONDA, LILY TOMLIN AND DOLLY PARTON 'Back in 1980 in that movie (9 to 5), we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot. 'And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.' DONALD GLOVER Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list' during one of his Emmys acceptance speeches. 'He's the reason I'm probably up here,' he added. JOHN LITHGOW 'First and foremost, I want to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life reminds us what courage and leadership in government looks like.' KUMAIL NANJIANI 'They (the nominees for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program) also celebrate people who frantically race across international borders, and those who can scale walls really, really quickly. In other words, the president's worst nightmare.' SETH MYERS The late night hoset took on physical comedy as Trump had previously called him 'marble mouthed' when he was hosting in 2014 on Twitter. The tweet flashed on screen as cameras cut to Meyers drooling marbles Advertisement

Politics even made its way into the winners. The Handmaid's Tale with took home six goings for its bleak portrait of an authoritarian America.

The glitzy ceremony in downtown Los Angeles - the first under the administration of President Donald Trump - was widely expected to have a strongly political flavor.

'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way,' Colbert began.

'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story.''

This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world Sean Spicer

But it was Spicer's cameo that drew the most shocked reaction.

As he appeared 'Spicey' cracked 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.'

Spicer was brought out to a surprised room full of celebrities whose jaws dropped when they saw the president's former mouth piece at the Microsoft Theater in LA.

As the former White House flack was wheeled offstage, Colbert said 'Thank you Melissa McCarthy!' a nod to the actress's fantastic impersonation of Spicer on Saturday Night Live.

Colbert also jokingly scolded Emmy voters for not giving Trump an Emmy for 'The Apprentice,' posing that maybe if he had his own an Emmy he wouldn't have run for President.

'I thought you guys loved morally compromised antiheroes,' he said of Trump, then called him 'Walter Whiter,' in reference to the 'Breaking Bad' character who won several Emmys for Bryan Cranston.

He also hilariously noted: 'Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote.'

The awards show put Trump's seeming obsession with the Emmys front and center when they showed his 2012 tweet in which he shared his dismay over his reality show 'The Apprentice' not scoring the coveted golden statue

Did he make it out alive? Spicer has caught the ire of Hollywood while managing to become the butt of jokes after his run as press secretary - but he was happy to pose up with various celebrities - including the one who mocks his boss

Baldwin slammed Trump for his unsuccessful Emmy nominations in the past for The Apprentice - while he picked up the Best Supporting Actor award for his impression of the president on Saturday Night Live

Spicer also got a picture with Emmys host Stephen Colbert, who made several jabs at Trump throughout the night, Dolly Parton and James Corden - who planted a kiss on his cheek

The president in 2012 vented his frustrations after his reality show The Apprentice did not get one of the coveted gold statues given at the Emmys.

'The Emmys are all politics, that's why, despite nominations, The Apprentice never won--even though it should have many times over,' Trump tweeted at the time.

During a spirited opening song with several celebrity appearances, Julia Louis-Dreyfus sang how nice it would be to have a president who 'was not beloved by Nazis.'

Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote Stephen Colbert

With Colbert chiming in 'Even treason's better on TV,' as an image flashes of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.

Later in a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.'

Trump was not the only politician who was found in the cross hairs of Colbert's deadpan delivery.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz was just caught up in a scandal where his Twitter account 'liked' a hardcore porn video.

Colbert did not miss the opportunity to bring the mishap into his opening diatribe.

When talking about the myriad of steaming services available, the host jested: 'These days everyone loves streaming video, just ask Ted Cruz, but knock first. You don't wanna just walk in.'

The host did take time out from berating Republicans to thank first responders for their contributions during Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Harvey which devastated Florida and Texas respectively.

'While we're thanking people, no one deserves more thanks than our first responders', he said.

'They have been working tirelessly following the disasters in Texas and Florida' adding that there is still time to donate to the efforts in the neighborhoods hit hardest by the natural disasters.

Marble mouthed 2014 Emmy host: Trump called Seth Meyers hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2012 when he was upset he didn't win an Emmy for 'The Apprentice.' Colbert flashed Trump's tweet as Meyers drooled marbles out of his mouth

Loser no more? Trump didn't win an Emmy for his show The Apprentice in 2014 taking to his perennial favorite platform Twitter to call Meyers 'very awkward with almost no talent'

Alec Baldwin smiled in the audience as Colbert cracked at the actor's impersonation of the president on SNL this season

L to R: Stars of tv series '9 to 5' Lily Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda took aim at the president without naming him- comparing him to a character in their 1980's series who was described as a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss'

Sean Spicer stole the show during the opening monologue as he shocked the house packed with celebrities, many with who are of the more liberal persuasion

Colbert also took aim at Bill Maher for using the N-word during on his HBO show after speaking on the most black nominees ever during this year's awards: 'I assume he's black since he's so comfortable using the N-word. I don't know. Goodnight! That's my time everybody.'

However several celebrity presenters and those accepting awards decided to keep the spotlight on Trump, as the hits on his reign kept on coming later in the program.

The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Marbles fall out of Meyers' mouth).

Trump called Seth Meyers Emmy's hosting gig a 'total joke' in 2014.

Colbert started off by saying 'He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, ''That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!'' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth?'

Cameras cut to Meyers dribbling marbles out of his mouth in response.

Baldwin came to the stage accepting the Emmy and started off his speech by saying: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'

After its most-watched season in 23 years, 'Saturday Night Live' won nine Emmys, including best variety sketch series, for actress Kate McKinnon and for Melissa McCarthy's turn as Spicer.

Soon after Baldwin picked up the accolade, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton, came on stage to present an award and made a joke about their 1980s movie 9 to 5, at Trump's expense.

Tomlin and Fonda said in 1980 they didn't put up with a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss' and they won't today either, in a clear knock at Trump.

Donald Glover won his first Emmy win for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, making him the first black director to ever win the category.

Julia Louis Dreyfus, who portrays a POTUS on the HBO show 'Veep' received a round of applause after she joked the show decided to skip an impeachment line as they figured 'someone else might get to it first'

Donald Glover accepts Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series and thanked the president for making blacks in America 'number one on the most oppressed list'

He used the speech to make a jibe at the president.

Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list.'

Julia Louis Dreyfus who is starring in the hit show 'Veep' as President Selina Meyer on the HBO comedy, jested 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.'

The joke received a rousing applause from the fairly liberal Hollywood elite crowd.

Meanwhile, several celebrities walked the carpet wearing blue ribbons, but it wasn't a new trend.

Stars were showing their support for the American Civil Liberties Union and their 'Stand With the ACLU' initiative.

'Saturday Night Live' cast member Kate McKinnon told the audience that playing Hillary Clinton was the greatest honor of her life.

McKinnon won outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series Sunday at the Emmy Awards for her work on the sketch comedy show, in which she frequently portrayed Clinton during the Presidential election.

Backstage reporters peppered McKinnon with questions about Clinton. McKinnon says she is a great admirer of Clinton and that she is the best role she's ever gotten to play.

McKinnon was spotted having dinner with Clinton in New York in February and called the experience surreal and wonderful and says she also ate too much.

Sterling K. Brown won best dramatic actor for his role as an African-American who is adopted into a white family in heart-tugging NBC family drama 'This Is Us.'

In a crowded limited series category, HBO's murder mystery 'Big Little Lies' came out on top, winning eight Emmys including for best series, for Nicole Kidman's abused wife character, for Laura Dern and Alexander Skarsgard, as well as for writing and directing.

Kidman said the show 'was created out of frustration because women weren't getting great roles. So now, more roles for women, please!'

Britain's Riz Ahmed beat presumed front-runner Robert De Niro to take his first Emmy for his role as a man who falls foul of the U.S. judicial system in HBO's crime limited series 'The Night Of.'

Some of the night's biggest losers included two new Netflix shows. Fan favorite 'Stranger Things' won just five of its 18 nominations, mostly in technical categories, and British royal series 'The Crown' came away with three out of 16 nominations.
The Ibrahim brothers were moved to a Dubai military base before a covert operation to extradite them back to Sydney to face charges over an alleged drug and tobacco smuggling syndicate.

Fadi Ibrahim, 43, is yet to post the $2.2 million bail he was granted on Monday, with conditions including that he lives under house arrest at his Dover Heights home.

The Ibrahims, along with Mostafa Dib and Koder Jomaa, have been dubbed the Dubai Four for their alleged roles in a sophisticated international crime syndicate.

According to the Daily Telegraph, the men were flown to Sydney in a military aircraft over the weekend before facing their separate court appearances on Monday.

Fadi's mother Wahiba has offered $1.5 million secured by her western Sydney home, and Ibrahim should be released from Sydney Police Centre before the weekend.

Fadi Ibrahim (pictured at Sydney airport before dramatic arrest in Dubai) is yet to make $2.2million bail. He is facing charges over an alleged international tobacco syndicate

Fadi (pictured being led by AFP police officers into custody with his wrists and waists heavily shackled) spent nights in a Dubai military base with brother Michael before their extradition back to Sydney

Michael Ibrahim was one of four men - dubbed the 'Dubai Four' - facing court on Monday for their alleged involvement in an international drug-smuggling syndicate

Magistrate Les Mabbutt ordered that Ibrahim live under house arrest, only leaving his home for court appearances, legal appointments and medical emergencies.

He is allowed one mobile phone, the number of which has to be given to police.

Mr Mabbutt noted Ibrahim was not charged with drug offences and the charges he did face could take up to two years to be heard in court.

Ibrahim is not to approach witnesses or any co-accused.

Fadi appeared via video link in Central Local Court on Monday facing two money laundering charges.

The court heard he was 'not a passive lender but an active investor' helping his brother Michael illegally import tobacco into Australia.

Fadi is accused of two money laundering offences: one of providing $800,000 towards illegally importing tobacco and one of receiving $1.6 million from the proceeds of that operation.

Mr Kalyk said Michael Ibrahim had been recorded stating Fadi had doubled his money from the alleged investment.

Michael was allegedly recorded on three occasions saying he had borrowed money from Fadi, who in turn had drawn down $1 million on his home loan.

A day after his extradition from Dubai the 43-year-old listened as Commonwealth Crown prosecutor Matthew Kalyk outlined the case against him.

'This applicant is not a fool,' Mr Kalyk said.

Magistrate Les Mabbutt ordered that Ibrahim live under house arrest, only leaving his Dover Heights home (pictured) for court appearances, legal appointments and medical emergencies

One of the 'Dubai Four' is pictured being walked into custody by Australian Federal Police officers with his wrists and waists heavily shackled

A CCTV image supplied by AFP shows Fadi Ibrahim at the Rose Bay Commonwealth Bank in July this year

Michael Ibrahim was not required to appear when drug charges against him were mentioned in the same court.

The 39-year-old is charged with conspiring to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy and attempting to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

In opposing bail for Fadi, Mr Kalyk said there was a risk the company director would fail to appear at future court dates or would interfere with witnesses or evidence.

His criminal history included an entry for intending to influence a witness and the charges he faced carried maximum penalties of 20 and 25 years.

Mr Kalyk said Fadi had criminal associations, access to large sums of money and the Crown case against him was strong.

His wife Shayda would not be a suitable person to supervise him on bail because she had attempted to leave the jurisdiction in 2010 despite representations from Fadi that she would surrender herself.

Friends and supporters arrived at Central Local Court in Sydney on Monday with Michael and Fadi Ibrahim, Koder Jomaa and Mustapha Dib facing charges for alleged roles in international drug-smuggling syndicate

Pictured above is a court sketch of Fadi Ibrahim as he is granted $2.2million bail

Stephen Zahr, lawyer for Koder Jomaa, arrived at court after the 47-year-old was arrested during dramatic raids in Dubai

Mustafa Dib, who was extradited from Dubai with the Ibrahims and Koder Jomaa, was not required to appear when drug charges against him were mentioned.

The 34-year-old is accused of attempting to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

He is also accused of conspiring with Michael Ibrahim, Nejmi Saki, Hakan Arif, Hassan Fakhreddine, Ahmad Ahmad and others to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

Jomaa, 47, is accused of attempting to import 200 kilograms of ecstasy and conspiring to import a commercial quantity of ecstasy.

Michael Ibrahim, Dib and Jomaa did not apply for bail and it was formally refused.

Friends and supporters of the Ibrahims, Jomaa and Dib concealed their identities as they walk inside the courthouse

Outside court, Mr Jomaa's lawyer Steven Zahr said his client would fight the charges, and was 'doing well'.

'He's back in Australia and ready to deal with this matter,' Mr Zahr said. 'He's doing wellno complaints'.'

Michael and Fadi Ibrahim arrived back in Sydney on Sunday night to face charges relating to their roles in an alleged drug and tobacco smuggling syndicate.

The cuffed brothers were led into custody by Australian Federal Police officers with their wrists and waists heavily shackled.

The brothers were arrested on the street in Dubai on August 8; Michael could face life in jail for his alleged role in an $810 million drug ring spanning across Sydney, the Netherlands and Dubai.

The haul, which included 1.8 tonnes of MDMA, was seized by authorities in the Netherlands in July.
A controversial Muslim leader has likened gay relationships to incest while speaking out against same-sex marriage at Sydney mosques.

Keysar Trad, the head of the Islamic Friendship Association of Australia, is leading a 'vote no' campaign among the Muslim community, initiating a tour of prayer halls to speak about what he considers the dangers of gay love.

'We might love our mum and dad intensively but you don't denigrate that love with sexual behaviour,' he said, according to The Daily Telegraph.

Controversial Muslim leader Keysar Trad (pictured) has likened gay relationships to incest while speaking out against same-sex marriage at Sydney mosques

Mr Trad claimed the Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohamad (pictured), told a Bankstown prayer hall on Friday he is worried it will be illegal to tell children homosexuality is wrong if the law changes

'We should all love each other but that type of love ends in denigrating people; there is nothing to stop you from having the utmost love for your friends who might be the same gender but it doesn't mean you strip naked together and start doing things,' he said.

Mr Trad has been vocal about his belief marriage should remain between a man and woman, previously claiming bisexuals will lobby for both a husband and a wife if gay marriage is legalised.

Islam does not recognize or allow same-sex marriage, according to The Australian National Imams Council.

Mr Trad, the former president of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils, said he's not the only Muslim leader advocating a 'no' majority on the postal vote.

Mr Trad said the Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohamad, told a Bankstown prayer hall on Friday he is worried it will be illegal to tell children homosexuality is wrong if the law changes.

Mr Trad (pictured) is leading a 'vote no' campaign among the Muslim community, initiating a tour of prayer halls to speak about what he considers the dangers of gay love

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed pictured at a National Day of Unity and Mosque Open Day in Canberra in 2015

A spokesman for the Victorian Board of Imams also told the Daily Telegraph the group has started a 'vote no' campaign on social media.

'This is a democracy, we are being asked to vote, and we've had a say on that matter,' Sheik Muhammad Saleem said.

In February, Mr Trad controversially said the Koran allowed husbands to lightly beat their wives 'as a last resort' before clarifying he was giving a clumsy interpretation of the religious text.

Two months later, Women of Hizb ut-Tahrir released a video saying husband could hit their wives with a small stick.

Where Islamic polygamy is allowed, women are not allowed multiple husbands.

Under Islamic law, a man can divorce a woman by saying 'I divorce you' three times but a woman does not have this same privilege.

Postal vote ballot were sent out to Australian households on September 12, with voters given until November 7 to return them.
Dawn French (pictured) spoke out against the ladette culture that has become prevalent among young women

Dawn French has done us a favour: with refreshing force. In an amiable interview at the weekend she was reflecting  as a comedy creator will do  on the absurdities of modern life when she landed, with sudden anger, on the ladette thing.

She had been watching reality shows about 'young lasses out on the lash in Ibiza', not only helplessly drunk but having reckless sex with all and sundry.

'I am shocked at how they behave,' French said. 'These girls are preloading with vodka, primping . . . You reckon they want to meet someone who would love, cherish and respect them. But instead they go out and get utterly hammered and are s***ging in a bush and coming out and going 'Yes!' like men. Like the men we hoped we wouldn't ever be like, and certainly not mimic as women.'

She asks: 'Am I totally out of step? Is it really OK to be as sexually free as you like and as drunk as you like? I don't buy it. It feels wrong to me.'

And to the rest of us, Dawn.

Her interviewer slyly observed that 'maybe she's taken on more of the Vicar of Dibley's moralising than we knew'. But let's avoid that poisonous M-word 'moral'.

French asked: 'Am I totally out of step? Is it really OK to be as sexually free as you like and as drunk as you like? I don't buy it. It feels wrong to me'

French's words came a day before thousands of freshers took to the streets to party. Pictures emerged of scores of drunk students enjoying Freshers' Week, many of them female

Few outside extreme religions want to go back to the bad old days, when a girl losing her virginity outside marriage, even with honest love, was considered 'ruined', as if her young body was not her own business.

Rational feminism was right to reject this and point out that, during this prudish era, many of the same people thought it fine for young men to 'sow their wild oats'.

Fathers fiercely guarded their virgin daughters, but took their 18-year-old sons to visit prostitutes. Or covered for them, with money and influence, when they got the housemaid pregnant.

Good riddance to such double-standard morality, and to the shotgun marriage with young men pressured to 'make an honest woman of her'. Today, we accept that young people make sexual mistakes and need not be tied down forever by a fling.

For girls, reliable contraception took much of the terror out of making love, and when it fails single motherhood (despite the downsides) is not a path to disgrace, forced adoption or penury.

I am just old enough to remember when that was the case and it was awful. So was the horrible belief of my grandmother's generation that once a girl wasn't a virgin it didn't matter who 'had' her, willingly or not. The expression, if you want something to shudder at, was: 'What's a slice off a cut loaf?'

So let's not go back there. We own our bodies, and have a right to enjoy sex. At its best it is generously loving; at its very best faithful; if you're lucky and work at it, a delight for life. But on occasion, OK, having sex is just a mistake.

And that's fine to accept. But a pendulum swings, sometimes too far.

I raise those ghosts from the past for a reason, because it may be that what we have now is a backlash, amplified by tawdry reality shows and facilitated by the internet. What Dawn French condemns is the decadent extreme that seems to have too many of our young people in its grip.

Take the scenes on the streets of Manchester and Birmingham this week, where a new crop of students were 'enjoying' Freshers' Week by drinking themselves into a stupor, groping and fondling each other, or vomiting and urinating in the street.

A young woman leans over a railing in Birmingham as thousands of new students celebrate their university start with boozy nights out

Speaking on the ladette culture, French asked: 'Is that what women threw themselves in front of horses for?'

It's the shrugging hook-up culture, the normalisation of the one-night stand and the giggling 'walk of shame' in last night's crumpled clothes.

It's the popularity of Tinder, an online 'dating' app that has negated the need for chat-up lines and instead fuelled the growing expectation that young women will 'put out' on the first meeting.

It isn't just the annual humiliation of girls behaving badly in 'S**galuf' and elsewhere but all year. We see young women lying shrieking, knickers around their ankles, offering sex acts to strangers and risking the kind of rape which  as various judges have been slammed for pointing out  is difficult to prosecute because the girl was too drunk to remember.

But even if everything is consensual on those wild nights, as French points out there is little joy or real human connection, none of the mystery and magic of lovemaking.

Some wild couplings are of no more significance than a quick game of ping-pong. Except that when playing ping-pong you don't lose your dignity, catch anything nasty or get slut-shamed by strangers.

'I don't believe that you feel great about yourself the day after that. I don't think boys do particularly either,' French said. 'Is that what women threw themselves in front of horses for? For this? For girls to be as low as those awful boys? What have we done? How did we go wrong? They have mothers who love them.

Worse for wear: This young woman was pictured in Manchester where witnesses described seeing people urinating in the street and passing out being sick as Freshers' week kicked off

Four students were spotted embracing on the streets of Birmingham as the city's university held their first Freshers Fest night

'What's happened that they don't value their body or that they don't mind any of this?'

That's the question  and not just for mothers. French has spoken before of her own adored father, who committed suicide when she was 19, but who, as she was growing up, always made her feel pretty, and special  a prize to be won by some very lucky man.

All girls deserve to be given that idea of themselves, and it is the job of both parents to do that, to instill in their daughters a sense of dignity, of the need to care for themselves, of their self-worth.

The truth is that there is something painfully humble and self-loathing about girls who turn to extreme promiscuity: they're not after pleasure, but validation. And that isn't what you get from tipsy, leering, clumsy boys you don't even know, too immature to be loving or gentle and too uneasy with their own bodies to understand restraint.

No normal loving parent wants their daughter's  or indeed their son's  nights out and holidays to be nothing but joyless, impersonal and frankly unhygienic s**g-fests. So why do they find it difficult to guide so many away from this trend? We can, I suppose, blame the wider culture and the fictions paraded before us about how life should be: all the way from the sophisticated libertines of Sex And The City (who, apart from Samantha, at least persuaded themselves that they were looking for love) to the crudity of Geordie Shore, Love Island, Big Brother, Ex On The Beach and the rest.

This young lady appeared to have fallen asleep while leaning on a friend in Manchester

Revellers were spotted taking the weight off their feet during Freshers' Week in Manchester

We CAN observe that soap operas and dramas can only keep their plots going by constantly making and breaking connections at ever faster speed, and that unimaginative writers find it simplest to make those connections sexual.

(I know a sexual health nurse who enjoys making what she calls 'chlamydia maps' of the leading soaps.)

Nor is it something the middle classes can look down on. Those Freshers' Week scenes prove that.

Even The Archers has just had Oxford student Phoebe throwing up morning-after pills after an unenjoyable tumble with a Bulgarian fruit-picker she took a fancy to.

Then we have celebrities, bragging about hundreds of one-nighters and, in the case of the appalling Russell Brand this week, having the nerve to call themselves life gurus as a result of their experiences.

And let's not forget the well-regarded woman journalists now in their 30s reminiscing, possibly rather exaggeratedly, about their wild 20s of heavy drinking, drugs, random sex and terminations, and claiming this has led them to the broad sunlit uplands of marriage and prosperity.

The reality for many who ape them is addiction, depression, infections and infertility.

Big business has a case to answer, too: at a time when girls are overtaking boys academically and young women are making strides in science, politics and business, advertising  at all levels  is reinforcing the message that all women should aim for is being irresistibly 'hot'.

It isn't. It's time for the pendulum to swing back a bit.
Sean Spicer has responded to critics of his appearance at Sunday night's Emmy Awards ceremony

Sean Spicer says his surprise Emmy Awards appearance was a chance to have some fun, and suggested Tuesday that people who were upset by it were taking things too seriously.

Clearly, not everyone was laughing, however.

For Emmys host Stephen Colbert, there's also a risk that a joke he engineered could wind up doing collateral damage.

The former White House press secretary's cameo was Colbert's idea, and they arranged to maximize the surprise factor through Chris Licht, the Colbert producer who knew Spicer from his background in news.

Colbert set the joke up by saying there was no way of knowing how many people would be watching the Emmys, then Spicer wheeled out from behind a podium to say 'this will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys period, both in person and around the world.'

'Wow,' Colbert replied. 'That really soothes my fragile ego.'

Scroll down for video

Pictured is Spicer speaking on stage at the 69th Emmy Awards last night. At the awards, he was part of a joke meant to evoke his false claims as White House Press Secretary regarding the size of Donald Trump's presidential inauguration crowds

Colbert has received criticism for the stunt. He has been accused of legitimizing Spicer. To which Spicer offered a suggestion: lighten up. 'People are reading too much into this,' he said

The clear reference was to Spicer's first appearance in the White House press room, arguing against photographic evidence about how large President Donald Trump's Inauguration Day audience was.

In an unfortunate parallel, Emmy viewership on Sunday essentially tied last year with the smallest ever for the television awards show.

The Nielsen company estimated that 11.4 million people watched Sunday's presentation of the Emmy Awards, roughly equivalent to last year's show honoring the year's best in television.

Last year's audience of 11.3 million people was the lowest ever for the Emmy Awards.

Trump critics resented the apparent effort to 'normalize' Spicer and make light of the idea of not telling the truth in the White House press room.

'The message of his presence was not only that we can all laugh at his service and sycophancy in the Trump administration, but that he's willing to laugh with us,' wrote Frank Bruni in a column for The New York Times titled 'The Shameful Embrace of Sean Spicer at the Emmys.'

On 'The View,' Joy Behar said that if Spicer and other Trump surrogates apologize to the American people, 'then I'll have fun with you, Sean.'

Liberal commentator Keith Olbermann tweeted that the Emmys lost its credibility by lionizing Spicer. Even a Republican strategist, Kevin Madden, warned on CNN that Spicer should be wary of equating notoriety with respect.

To which Spicer, reached on an airplane on Tuesday, offered a suggestion: lighten up.

'People are reading too much into this,' he said. While he respects people's opinions, he said people shouldn't take the appearance that seriously.

He added to the New York Times: 'This was an attempt to poke a little fun at myself and add a little bit of levity to the event.'

He also told the Times that he 'absolutely' regrets his false inaugural crowd claim.

Melissa McCarthy, who portrayed Spicer to iconic comedic effect on 'Saturday Night Live,' is pictured reacting to his appearance at the awards

Pictured are Julie Bowen and Sarah Hyland of 'Modern Family' fame reacting to the stunt

Pictured is the reaction of Anna Chlumsky, who co-stars as Amy Brookheimer on Veep, which won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series this year

Spicer didn't betray any concern that President Trump would be offended by the skit, which some commentators have said acknowledged he wasn't truthful during his job. He is currently on the paid speaking circuit.

Spicer made the rounds of Hollywood parties after the Emmys and was greeted with many people asking for selfies.

'I was surprised at how nice people were to me,' he said, 'even the people who I know don't agree with me politically.'

Some fans of Colbert were also bewildered by the appearance.

The 'Late Show' host has soared in the ratings this year with comedy that has been sharply critical of Trump and his team.

He should know the dangers of appearing too chummy: late-night competitor Jimmy Fallon still hasn't recovered from the bad feelings engendered when he tousled Trump's hair when the then-candidate appeared on the 'Tonight' show last year.

After Spicer's appearance, Colbert got in a rip.

He joked that Robert DeNiro, who appeared as Bernard Madoff in the HBO movie 'Wizard of Lies,' had actually been the star of 'The Sean Spicer Story.'

Emily Nussbaum, television critic at The New Yorker, tweeted after that one: 'having cake, eating it too, then throwing it up again. There's a lot going on.'

The web site Vox said it was 'incredibly disappointing' to see Colbert joking with Spicer.

'It went against everything Colbert purports to do on his fiercely pointed 'Late Show,' and retroactively sucked the air out of any biting Trump jokes he tried to make in his opening monologue,' the site wrote.

Colbert blamed the Emmys for Trump's election as president.

He suggested if Trump had won an award for 'Celebrity Apprentice,' he might not have run for president.

He showed a clip of a presidential debate where Trump said he should have won an Emmy.

'Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote,' he said.

EVERY JOKE AND JAB AT TRUMP AT THE EMMYS Colbert's opening monologue took a more benevolent turn when he urged people to keep donations coming to those in need after hurricanes ravaged both Florida and Texas STEPHEN COLBERT 'Of course, there's no way anyone could possibly watch that much TV, other than the president, who seems to have a lot of time for that sort of thing. Hello sir, thank you for joining us! Looking forward to the tweets. 'We know that the biggest TV star of the last year is Donald Trump. No, we may not like it, but he's the biggest star. And you know, Alec Baldwin, obviously. You guys are neck and neck. And Alec, you're up against a lot of neck. 'However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way. 'All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards,' the new season of 'American Horror Story'. 'We all know that the Emmys mean a lot to Donald Trump because he was nominated multiple times for 'Celebrity Apprentice,' but he never won. Why didn't you give him an Emmy? I'll tell you this  if he had won an Emmy, I bet he wouldn't have run for president. So this is all your fault. I thought you people love morally compromised antiheroes. You like Walter White. 'And he never forgave you, and he never will. The president has complained repeatedly that the Emmys are rigged. He even went after the host a few years back, tweeting, 'That Seth Meyers is hosting the Emmy Awards is a total joke. He is very awkward with almost no talent. Marbles in his mouth!' Wow, marbles in his mouth, that's harsh. That's quite an accusation, do you have a response Seth? (Camera pans to Meyers, with marbles falling out of his mouth). 'And even during the campaign, he wouldn't let it go. This actually happened, this exchange actually happened in the debates. (Goes to video showing Clinton mentioning Trump's Emmy loss in debate) 'But he didn't. Because unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote. Where do I find the courage to tell that joke in this room? Of course, what really matters to Donald Trump is ratings. He's got to have the big numbers, and I certainly hope we achieve that tonight. 'Unfortunately, at this point, we have no way of knowing how big our audience is. I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know? (Moment Sean Spicer comes out on podium). 'The Americans has hotter spies than the Russia inquiry, even treason's better on TV' In a skit spoofing HBO hit, Westworld, Colbert was asked by Jeffrey Wright if he's 'ever questioned the nature of [his] reality?' Colbert responds: 'Every day since November 8th.' SEAN SPICER 'This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world.' Sean Spicer in a nod to the former WH flack's now infamous claim President Trump's crowd was the largest in history.' COLBERT RESPONDS: 'Wow, that really soothes my fragile ego. I can understand why you'd want one of these guys around. Melissa McCarthy everyone, give it up! Beautiful.' 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Veep star Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS 'Imagine if your president wasn't loved by Nazis' Louis-Dreyfus sang during the show's opening song. 'We did have a whole story line about an impeachment but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first.' ALEC BALDWIN 'I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,' Baldwin said while accepting the award for his portrayal of the President on SNL. 'Orange wig proved to be effective' birth control, cracked Baldwin during his acceptance speech after he said he and wife Hilaria haven't had a child in three years. JANE FONDA, LILY TOMLIN AND DOLLY PARTON 'Back in 1980 in that movie (9 to 5), we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot. 'And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.' DONALD GLOVER Glover 'thanked' Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list' during one of his Emmys acceptance speeches. 'He's the reason I'm probably up here,' he added. JOHN LITHGOW 'First and foremost, I want to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life reminds us what courage and leadership in government looks like.' KUMAIL NANJIANI 'They (the nominees for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program) also celebrate people who frantically race across international borders, and those who can scale walls really, really quickly. In other words, the president's worst nightmare.' SETH MYERS The late night hoset took on physical comedy as Trump had previously called him 'marble mouthed' when he was hosting in 2014 on Twitter. The tweet flashed on screen as cameras cut to Meyers drooling marbles Advertisement

Baldwin couldn't resist picking up that baton when he grasped his trophy. 'I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,' he said.

'SNL' had a smash year with its political comedy, led particularly by Baldwin and Melissa McCarthy's impersonation of Spicer.

It dominated the Emmys, too, with the show winning for variety sketch series and Kate McKinnon, who portrayed Hillary Clinton, taking a supporting actress award.

McKinnon thanked Clinton from the stage for her 'grace and grit.'

Lorne Michaels, the longtime top producer at 'Saturday Night Live,' said he knew it was an important year for the show to get things just right.

'It was one of the most amazing years we've ever had because everything changed every day,' he said backstage.

In an interview with the New York Times, Spcier also said of his appearance: 'This was an attempt to poke a little fun at myself and add a little bit of levity to the event'

Donald Glover, best actor winner in a comedy for his role in 'Atlanta,' brought up the president his acceptance speech, saying that 'I want to thank Trump for making black people No. 1 on the most oppressed list.'

A number of nominees wore blue ribbons, distributed by the ACLU in support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA.

'They asked us if he would wear these ribbons to bring attention to the DACA children - the 800,000 vulnerable children were waiting for Congress and our administration to give them permanent, safe homes - and not keep them in this limbo that is terrifying all of them and really affecting lives,' said actor Mandy Patinkin.

Three acting veterans got in the toughest shot at Trump - without mentioning his name. Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, the stars of the movie 'Nine to Five,' appeared to present an award.

'Back in 1980 in that movie, we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot,' Fonda said.

'And in 2017,' Tomlin added, 'we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.'
A Sacramento man murdered his three children - two of them with a belt - on Wednesday, prosecutors alleged Monday.

Robert Hodges, 32, of Sacramento, has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder after the bodies of Kelvin Hodges, 11, Julie Hodges, 9, and seven-month-old Lucas Hodges were found in his apartment Thursday.

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig said the two older children were strangled with a belt, the Sacramento Bee reported, but would not say how it was used or give other details - including a motive.

Hodges faces three 'special circumstance' allegations that could bring the death penalty if he is convicted - two of lying in wait, plus multiple murders.

Scroll down for video

Robert Hodges, 32 (seen in court on Monday), has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder after cops found the bodies of his three kids last week

Prosecutors say a belt was used to strangle Kelvin, 11, and Julie, 8, and that he attempted to murder his wife, Mai Sheng Hodges (all pictured)

Also killed was nearly-eight-month-old Lucas (pictured with Kelvin and Julia) although how he died has not been released. Prosecutors said they may seek the death penalty

The charging documents don't say how Lucas was killed; prosecutors say they're withholding details to ensure a fair trial.

'We have not yet determined if we intend to seek the death penalty,' Reisig said at a news conference.

That decision won't be made until prosecutors weigh the circumstances of the case - which could take months.

Hodges is seen here in his mugshot, taken after his arrest after midnight on Thursday. Cops said he hurt Mai badly enough to warrant an attempted murder charge

Hodges allegedly committed the crimes after getting involved in a domestic incident with his wife, Mai Sheng Hodges. Police say she did not witness the killings.

The first court appearance is expected to come later Monday. Officials expect to appoint a public defender to represent him.

The last execution to take place in California was that of Clarence Ray Allen, who was given a lethal injection in 2006 for killing three people.

Sheng Hodges remarked on Facebook that her husband had been a loving father prior to the attacks. She has made no further public remarks.

A neighbor who witnessed Hodges leaving his home immediately after the attacks said he seemed 'content', according to CBS Sacramento.

The neighbor said he seemed 'Absent. He was not in a rage.'

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Mai Sheng Hodges, and had raised almost $30,000 as of Monday evening.

Hodges remains in jail without bail and will return to court on October 2.

Police said Mai was also injured enough to warrant an attempted murder charge, but did not witness the deaths. A neighbor said Hodges seemed 'content' after the alleged incident

Prosecutors said it will take months to decide on whether to seek the death penalty as the circumstances of the deaths come to light. They are withholding facts to ensure a fair trial

Hodges was taken into custody shortly after midnight Thursday morning by California Highway Patrol officers, who pulled him over on Interstate 80 near West El Camino Avenue in Sacramento, California.

Hours earlier, police had been called to a West Sacramento apartment complex seven miles away for a domestic violence incident.

Officers said that first responders tried life-saving measures on the children when they first got to the apartment, to no avail.

Hodges had also been held on suspicion of attempting to kill his wife Mai.

'She didn't go to a hospital,' Sergeant Roger Kinney said. 'But what he did to her was significant enough that it did merit a charge of attempted murder from our investigators.'

Mai Hodges' sister, Xai T Vang, said the family was not aware of any problems between the couple.

'They love each other very much,' Vang said. 'I just don't understand how he made this choice.'

In a social media post, she also said: 'Losing a child is a parent's worst nightmare, and the time since the passing of our beautiful nephews and niece has been a horrific nightmare for my sister and our entire family.

'Our hearts are forever shattered.'

Mai's sister, Xai T Vang, said the family was not aware of any problems between the couple, who she described as being very much in love

Vang said Mai was a victim of domestic violence, but he didn't know the extent of her injuries.

'It's horrific and it's very difficult to deal with,' Kinney said. 'This [investigation] is going to take not hours, not days, it's going to take a long time a long time to come to grips with what happened there.

'I'm sure she's going through a rollercoaster of emotions, so we're getting what we can out of her as she's able to communicate.'

Hodges is due to appear in court sometime on Monday. He does not appear to have a lawyer, and a message left to his parents has not been returned.

Simon Morales lights a candle on Thursday at a makeshift memorial outside the apartment where the three children were killed

Hodges is due to appear in court sometime on Monday. Pictured is a view of the memorial to the three children seen on Thursday

The great-grandmother of three children has also said that relatives were unaware of any previous marital disputes.

Irene Aiello of West Sacramento says the couple had been married more than a dozen years. She says the grandparents have yet to speak to their grandson, Hodges, nor his wife.

Kinney said a chaplain will be sent out to help neighbors of the victims, and that grief counselors will be made available to the officers who responded to the scene, as well as the Washington Unified School District, Kinney said.

'The officers are absolutely impacted, along with the firefighters, and certainly the family, the neighbors,' he said. 'It's horrific and it's very difficult to deal with.'

This is the outside of the apartment in which the three children were killed. Police caught up with Hodges just after midnight on Thursday as he drove down the Interstate 80
One day in the summer of 1933, in a village in Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union, a little boy woke on top of the family stove. He was starving  not just hungry but genuinely starving.

Dad, I want to eat! Dad! he cried. But the house was cold and from his father there came no answer.

The boy went over to his father, who was apparently still asleep. There was foam under his nose, he remembered. I touched his head. Cold.

The famine that struck Ukraine in late 1932 and 1933 was one of the most lethal catastrophes in European history

A starving family in a courtyard, featured in Anne Applebaum's new book Red Famine

Dead and dying horses near a Belgorod collective farm during the man-made Holodomor famine

A little later, a cart arrived laden with bodies lying like sheaves. Two men came into the house, lifted his fathers body into a sack and threw it onto the cart. Then they were gone.

The boy left home after that. He wandered the empty fields, sleeping in stables, scrabbling for grains, swollen and ragged. But somehow he survived. Some four million of his fellow Ukrainians were not so lucky.

The famine that struck Ukraine in late 1932 and 1933 was one of the most lethal catastrophes in European history.

In the West, it is nowhere near as well-known as it should be.

In Ukraine itself, however, the Holodmor  literally, hunger extermination  is often seen as the equivalent of the Holocaust, a gigantic, man-made operation to murder millions of people.

Josef Stalin addressing the official session at the Moscow Metro in 1935

And behind it was not just one man  Stalin, who ruled the Soviet Union from the mid-Twenties to 1953  but an entire warped ideology which sought to remake a peasant society according to a Utopian Communist blueprint.

Even now, in an age when we are regularly assailed by images of horror and suffering, the details of the Holodmor are heartbreaking.

Starving children, mass graves, vigilantes, even cannibalism: the famine saw human nature stripped to the bone.

I was so frightened by what had happened that I could not talk for several days, recalled one woman who escaped after her emaciated body was mistakenly thrown into a mass grave. I saw dead bodies in my dreams. And I screamed a lot.

Today, almost unbelievably, there are still those who deny the famine happened. Indeed, in Vladimir Putins Russia, the architect of the famine, Stalin, is routinely presented not as a monstrous tyrant but as an admirably strong leader who made Russia walk tall in the world.

A few years ago, Mr Putin even told a press conference there was nothing wrong with restoring the statues of a man who claimed millions of lives. Stalin, he claimed, was no different to Englands Parliamentarian leader Oliver Cromwell  a comparison simply grotesque in its inaccuracy.

Thank goodness, then, for the journalist and author Anne Applebaum, whose new book, Red Famine, leaves no room for doubt about Stalins responsibility for what happened in Ukraine.

Nor does she spare us the grim details of the fate of millions of innocent men, women and children who had the misfortune to find themselves guinea pigs in his monstrous Marxist experiment.

The roots of the famine lay in the tortured, blood-stained relationship between Russia and Ukraine, a source of international tension and human suffering to this day.

The girl on the left's parents died from starvation and she survived on charity from a neighbour. Another starving girl is pictured, right

The word Ukraine means borderland. Once, much of it belonged to the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, but then it was conquered by the emerging Russian Empire.

Ever since, Russian nationalists have seen it as an integral part of their Eurasian dominion: even today, Mr Putins apologists often call it New Russia or Little Russia.

After the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, Ukraine made a bid for freedom, only to be crushed by the Red Army and turned into a republic of the new Soviet Union. Even so, both Lenin and Stalin regarded Ukraine with intense distrust.

The Ukrainians were too uppity, too different. They insisted on speaking their own language; their peasants were too conservative, holding onto their village traditions; they were insufficiently enthusiastic about the bright new Marxist future their Kremlin masters promised to build.

And then, at the end of the Twenties, came disaster. Determined to consolidate his rule after succeeding Lenin at the top of the Communist system, and increasingly impatient to break peasant resistance and move towards Utopia, Stalin ordered the collectivisation of the entire Soviet countryside.

The word collectivisation sounds technical, a little dry, even boring. But the human consequences were profound and dramatic.

The principle was simple. Richer, more successful peasants had to be liquidated, by starvation, murder or exile. The rest would be herded into vast state-run farms where they would toil ceaselessly for the greater Soviet good, instead of for private profit.

The collectivisation drive had Stalins fingerprints all over it. A different Soviet leader might have proceeded more cautiously, and indeed some Bolsheviks thought he was going too far, too fast.

Grain confiscated from kulak (rich peasant) family in the village of Udachoye, in the Donetsk region

Both Lenin (left) and Stalin (right) regarded Ukraine with intense distrust after several attempts to gain independence

But Stalin argued that collectivisation was simply good Marxism. If they wanted to build socialism on earth, he said, they needed to smash the peasants. How, after all, could they have a truly socialist society if they still allowed people to farm for themselves and make money?

What followed was horrifying. As Stalins thugs roamed the fertile Ukrainian countryside, seizing grain that he could sell abroad  which would allow him to buy the industrial machinery he desperately wanted  reports of growing hardship began to trickle back to Moscow.

By spring 1932, secret police reports were full of peasants streaming from their homes in search of food, children swollen with hunger, families living on grass and acorns, even bodies lying in the streets of Ukraines cities.

Some suggested this must be part of a secret capitalist plan to set the peasant class against the Soviet government.

Red Famine, by Anne Applebaum (pictured), leaves no room for doubt about Stalins responsibility

But Stalin did nothing. Far from intervening to help the afflicted, he blamed Ukrainian nationalists, told the secret police to search ever more closely for hidden grain supplies, and even ordered blacklists of farms and villages.

In part, this demonstrated his morbid suspicion of Ukraines independence aspirations  something he had in common with his Tsarist predecessors and, indeed, todays Russian leadership.

But it also reflected his Marxist mentality, which saw class enemies everywhere and treated ordinary people as pawns in his callous ideological game.

So it was that as 1932 gave way to 1933, with Stalin continuing to order relentless grain requisitioning, hunger became starvation.

Applebaum describes the process in chilling detail. As your body starves, it consumes its stores of glucose. Next it eats fats. In the third stage, some weeks later, it begins to eat its proteins, cannibalising tissues and muscles.

Finally your skin becomes thin, your eyes distended, your belly swollen. Death comes from starvation or from infections such as pneumonia, typhus and diphtheria. Either way, your fate could hardly be more horrible.

As millions began to die, human feeling perished with them. In one of countless dreadful anecdotes, Applebaum describes how a 15-year-old farm girl was begging beside the queue outside a Communist-run bread shop. As each person passed, the girl asked for crumbs. Finally, she asked the shopkeeper, who shouted at her and hit her so she fell to the ground. Get up! the shopkeeper said, kicking her. Go home and get to work! But she did not move; she was dead.

A few people in the queue started crying. Some are getting too sentimental around here, the shopkeeper said threateningly. It is easy to spot enemies of the people.

In another village, a little boy teased other children with jam and a loaf of bread that his family had managed to obtain.

An elderly Ukrainian man lights a candle in front of a monument commemorating the millions of Ukrainians who died from the great famine

Gareth Jones in Borubodur. British journalist Jones, who exposed the famine ravaging Stalin's Soviet Union has been hailed the 'unsung hero of the Ukraine'

The other children began throwing stones at him; they only stopped when he was dead.

Sometimes families turned on themselves. One man was so enraged by the sound of his children crying for food that he smothered his baby in its cradle and killed two other children by smashing their heads against a wall.

In the province of Vinnytsia, a farmer tried to suffocate his starving children by lighting a fire and blocking the chimney. When they screamed for help, he strangled them with his bare hands.

Poor peasants beside the ruins of a burned kulak house

There were even tales of people reduced to cannibalism. In one village, the police arrested a man who had gone mad after his wife died. A neighbour asked him why he seemed better fed than everyone else. I have eaten my children, the man said, and if you talk too much, I will eat you.

Later, in the camps of Stalins gulag, a Polish woman met hundreds of unhappy, barefoot, half-naked Ukrainians who had been sentenced for cannibalism.

Their children, they told her, had died of hunger; then, driven mad by grief and starvation, the parents had cooked and eaten them. But afterwards, when they came to understand what had happened, they lost their minds.

Whether the famine counts as genocide remains a controversial question. Ukrainians often say yes; Russians and their sympathisers say not. In a sense, though, the question is immaterial. What matters is that as a result of Stalins policy, millions of lives were extinguished and millions more blighted by appalling suffering.

From a Western perspective, what is truly shameful is that many outside observers refused to accept the truth or tried deliberately to cover it up. On the British Left there were plenty of apologists for Stalins barbarism, such as the keen socialists Sidney and Beatrice Webb, who hailed his regime as a new civilisation.

A brave exception was the Welsh writer Gareth Jones, who travelled through Ukraine in March 1933 and returned to break the news of a catastrophic famine.

Almost immediately, the New York Timess man in Moscow, Pulitzer Prize-winning Walter Duranty, published a reply under the headline Russians Hungry But Not Starving.

There was no famine, Duranty said, dismissing Joness report as part of a British government propaganda drive.

A few months later, Duranty, who lived in luxury in a Moscow apartment, went even further. Any report of a famine in Russia, he told American readers in August 1933, is today an exaggeration or malignant propaganda.

Since Duranty was better connected than Jones, many people who ought to have known better believed him. As Applebaum writes, as late as 1986, when the great historian Robert Conquest published a groundbreaking book on the famine, entitled Harvest Of Sorrow, the Left-wing London Review of Books ran a scathing review dismissing it as yet more anti-Communist propaganda.

Even today, shamefully, there are those on the Left who still make excuses for Stalin.

Chief among them, almost unbelievably, is Jeremy Corbyns sepulchral press chief, Winchester-educated Seumas Milne, who has rarely missed an opportunity to defend the Communist dictator.

According to Mr Milne, people should stop banging on about the victims of Stalins regime. Instead, they should remember communism in the Soviet Union, Eastern Europe and elsewhere delivered industrialisation, mass education, job security and huge advances in social and gender equality.

Jeremy Corbyns sepulchral press chief, Winchester-educated Seumas Milne, still makes excuses for Stalin

By any standards, this is a grotesque insult to the millions who died in the Ukrainian famine. The fact that it comes from Jeremy Corbyns official spokesman is simply disgraceful  and tells you all you need to know about the Labour leaderships moral compass, or lack thereof.

But no one who reads Ms Applebaums book, which is based on extensive work in Russian and Ukrainian archives, can have any doubt about the hideous death toll in 1932 and 1933, or about the responsibility of Stalin and his Communist allies.

The only place her book can expect a frosty welcome is Moscow, where Mr Putin has accused the West of excessive demonisation of Stalin, which he sees as a means of attacking Russia.

Indeed, a poll of 1,600 Russians only three months ago found that fully 38 per cent considered Stalin the greatest Russian of all time, followed by Mr Putin on 34 per cent. That tells its own story.

As for the Ukrainians, they have come to see the Holodmor as the central moment in their modern political and cultural history  a symbol of their suffering at Russian hands, but also a spur to their national self-determination.

In that sense, Mr Putin, who fancies himself as Stalins heir and still sees Ukraine merely as Little Russia, is surely doomed to fail.

But none of this can make up for the lives lost, the starving children, the grieving parents, the mass graves, the deserted villages.

We cannot lie peacefully in our graves, the Ukrainian poet and political dissident Mykola Rudenko once wrote, looking back on the Holodmor many years later. We, the dead, are unable to rest.

We cannot bring back Stalins victims. But in remembering them, perhaps we can help them rest.

n RED Famine: Stalins War On The Ukraine, by Anne Applebaum, is published by Allen Lane at 25.
September 12, 2017

The State Departments approval of a $3.8 billon weapons sale to Bahrain is raising questions about the sustainability of a surge in US military deals with the Gulf.

Announced on Friday, the deal includes the sale of 19 upgraded F-16V fighter jets, 35 fast patrol boats and more than 200 anti-tank missiles. The sales had been held up by the Barack Obama administration due to human rights concerns.

A US official said the deal would help Bahrains armed forces better integrate with American forces, including the 5th Fleet out of Manama, which is home to two aircraft carriers, 20 smaller ships and as many as 20,000 sailors. Bahrain is a major non-NATO ally, meaning that the US government gives it preference for approving arms sales and other military assistance.

Bahrain's air force has also flown bombing missions in Operation Inherent Resolve, the US-backed military campaign to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, and also provides assistance to Saudi Arabias fight in Yemen. The Trump administration first announced plans to approve the F-16 deal in March.

During the Obama administration, US companies sold armored Humvees, anti-tank missiles and F-16 equipment to Manama. The new deal gives Manama a boost in its effort to replace the last of its aging F-5 fighters, which were last produced in the 1980s.

This is a big issue of national pride, David Des Roches, a former White House and Defense Department official who now serves as an associate professor at the National Defense University in Washington, told Al-Monitor. Everyone wants to have a jet that goes vroom at their national parade."

Yet with a defense budget of little more than $1.5 billion in 2016  less than half of the proposed US sale  its not clear Bahrain will be able to sustain those purchases. With just 1.3 million people, the tiny Gulf kingdom is one of the smallest countries in the world to fly modern fighter jets.

And the F-16 might not be particularly well suited to Bahrains military. The countrys more than 8,000 troops are primarily focused on homeland security missions, such as protecting the Sunni monarchy from being overthrown by the Shiite majority and countering Iranian interference.

"The country is so small that theres a question of whether theyll be able to exercise the full lifetime performance of [the F-16], said Des Roches. They might bankrupt themselves for something of dubious military efficacy.

The sale comes as Congress has held back on weapons deals to the Gulf, as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates remain engaged in a diplomatic standoff with Qatar over its alleged support for Islamists.

Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Bob Corker, R-Tenn., informed Secretary of State Rex Tillerson that he would block future arms sales to the region pending a resolution to the crisis, which has persisted since June 5. A Corker aide told Al-Monitor that the chairman cleared the Bahrain sales prior to withholding consent on future Gulf sales in response to the ongoing dispute, but confirmed that the policy remains in effect.

Congress could yet decide to push back against the sale on the basis of human rights concerns. In June, the Senate approved a $510 million sale of precision-guided munitions to Saudi Arabia by a close 53-47 vote amid criticism of the civilian death toll in Yemen.

Bahrains ruling Al Khalifa family has been criticized by Washington for minimizing dissent and protests by its vocal Shiite majority. Recently, the State Department issued a statement condemning the sentencing of Bahraini human rights activist Nabeel Rajab.

The US-Bahrain security relationship was complicated under Obama because vetoes were being exercised over human rights concerns, Des Roches said. What the Trump administration is saying is security is security and human rights is human rights, were not going to sacrifice one for the other.
One half of the glamorous 'Thelma and Louise' duo who were on the run from prison has been caught by police - but the other woman remains at large.

Abigail Graf, 21, and Tegan Simpson, 24, were reported missing at 11pm on Sunday after they were absent for a routine headcount at a Gold Coast prison.

Graf, who was in custody for assaulting police, was arrested at a home in Moorina, north of Brisbane about 2.20pm on Monday.

Abigail Graf was arrested by police at a house north of Brisbane on Monday afternoon

She has been charged with escaping lawful custody and will appear at the Caboolture Magistrates Court on September 19

She was being held at an open prison in Numinbah Valley, 100km south of Brisbane

She has been charged with escaping lawful custody and will appear at the Caboolture Magistrates Court on September 19.

They were being held at a 700-hectare open prison in Numinbah Valley, 100km south of Brisbane.

Tegan Simpson is still wanted, and anyone who has seen her or has any information is asked to contact police

She is 163cm tall with dark brown hair and green eyes

She has multiple tattoos, including the word strength on her face and a skull and rose on her leg

Simpson is still wanted, and anyone who has seen her or has any information is asked to contact police.

She is 163cm tall with dark brown hair and green eyes, with multiple tattoos including the word 'strength' on her face and a skull and rose on her leg.
Boris Johnson openly speculated about his future in government last night after he was rebuked by Theresa May for speaking out over Brexit.

Amid a deepening Cabinet row over strategy, the Foreign Secretary repeated his concerns about the dangers of being dragged into a long transitional deal.

Friends said he was also concerned that Remainers in the Cabinet might wreck Brexit by keeping Britain in the single market in the long term.

Speaking in New York, where he is due to have a showdown with the Prime Minister today, he suggested he was toying with quitting.

Conservative grandee Ken Clarke today claimed if Mrs May had not been left weakened after the general election, Mr Johnson would already have been sacked.

Mrs May is set to hold a special Cabinet meeting ahead of her Brexit speech in Florence on Friday in a bid to restore order.

Speaking in New York, where he is due to have a showdown with the Prime Minister today, he suggested he was toying with quitting

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson (pictured with President Donald Trump on Monday) speculated about his future in government

Asked in New York he was planning to quit, the Foreign Secretary initially said: 'I think you may be barking up the wrong tree.'

But he later added: 'When the burden of office is lifted from my shoulders I will of course look back with great pride on my time doing all sorts of things.'

Mr Johnson's father Stanley also suggested his son was unhappy with the Government's position on Brexit ahead of a major speech by Mrs May.

'This is so important,' he said. 'I would have thought he would be happy, happy to walk away from the whole thing.' Downing Street has apparently put Mr Johnson on 'resignation watch' amid fears he may walk out.

At the weekend he set out his vision for Brexit in a 4,000-word essay. Yesterday he was backed by former leadership rival and fellow Brexiteer Michael Gove, who tweeted support.

Yesterday Mrs May tried to reassert her control over the Cabinet ahead of her set-piece speech in Florence on Friday.

Asked whether she was frustrated by the Foreign Secretary's actions, she said: 'Boris is Boris. What the Government is doing and what the Cabinet is doing is that we... base our negotiations on the principles set out at Lancaster House.'

The Prime Minister dismissed suggestions she was allowing Mr Johnson to act as a 'back seat driver'.

Speaking to reporters on a flight to Canada, she said: 'This Government is driven from the front and we are all going to the same destination.'

She insisted her plans for a major 'reset' of the Brexit negotiations this week would not be knocked off course, adding: 'What is important is the position of the Government and it is the position of the Government that I'll be setting out on Friday.'

The Prime Minister flatly rejected Mr Johnson's call to make it clear that money saved from EU budget payments would be spent on the NHS. She refused to back him in his row with statistics watchdog Sir David Norgrove over the claim that leaving the 28-state bloc would free up 350million a week.

But her attempts to silence Mr Johnson appeared to have little effect. At an impromptu press conference in New York he again set out his concerns about a lengthy transition period, saying: 'It is pretty important that it should not be too long and business should have a clear sense about where we are going and what it is like at the end of it.'

Mr Johnson repeated his concerns about the dangers of being dragged into a long transitional deal

Mr Johnson's father suggested his son was unhappy with the Government's position on Brexit ahead of a major speech by Mrs May (pictured with Justin Trudeau on Monday)

Friends of Mr Johnson say he 'felt he had to act' at the end of last week because of concerns that Remainers in the Cabinet, including Philip Hammond and Amber Rudd, were trying to sign the UK up to a deal that would keep it the single market for good.

Pro-Brexit ministers, including Mr Johnson and Mr Gove, favour a deal that would leave the UK much freer to set its own laws and taxes and strike its own trade deals.

The spat over Europe has dismayed many senior Tories. Commenting on what he described as 'party discord', defence minister Tobias Ellwood said: 'Many would agree we are not witnessing our finest hour  at a testing time when poise, purpose and unity are called for.'

At a joint press conference with Mrs May in Ottawa yesterday, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said he wanted a new trade deal with the EU, which comes into force this week, to continue in all but name with the UK after 2019.

The Canadian deal, known as Ceta, took seven years to negotiate.

Mr Trudeau said there was no reason for it to be interrupted by the UK's exit from the EU.

'Within the EU, the UK is the largest trading partner that Canada has,' he said. 'The UK was deeply involved throughout this negotiation toward Ceta in the past seven years. It will form the basis for the way we move forward in the post-Brexit Europe.

'We are very confident we are going to be able to continue strong trade ties and commercial relationships.'
Michael Gove came out in support of Boris Johnson yesterday after he was accused of using misleading statistics to exaggerate the benefits of Brexit.

At the weekend, Britain's chief statistician accused the Foreign Secretary of a 'clear misuse' of data after he revived Vote Leave's claim that up to 350million a week would be freed up for public spending.

The Environment Secretary, who torpedoed Mr Johnson's run for the Tory leadership after the Brexit vote, expressed support for his Cabinet colleague and accused critics of trying to 'refight' the referendum.

And another Tory MP called on Sir David Norgrove, chairman of the UK Statistics Authority, to resign for criticising Mr Johnson's use of figures.

Michael Gove has come out in support of Boris Johnson (pictured together in June 2016) after he was accused of using misleading statistics to exaggerate the benefits of Brexit

The 350million figure first attracted criticism during the referendum campaign, when Mr Johnson and Mr Gove travelled around the country in a bus emblazoned with the slogan: 'We send the EU 350million a week. Let's fund our NHS instead.'

The Foreign Secretary's decision to revive the figure in a 4,000-word article at the weekend prompted Sir David, 69, to publish a letter to Mr Johnson saying he was 'surprised and disappointed', claiming it was a 'clear misuse' of official figures.

Mr Johnson responded with his own letter accusing the chairman of a 'complete misrepresentation' of his views and called on him to withdraw the criticism.

On Monday, Mr Gove backed Mr Johnson, tweeting: 'In the debate on EU contributions it's important people look at what Boris actually wrote in his Telegraph article, not headlines.

The Environment Secretary torpedoed Mr Johnson's run for the Tory leadership after the Brexit vote

'Debate should be forward-looking on how to make most of life outside EU, not refighting referendum.'

In his Daily Telegraph article on Saturday, Mr Johnson wrote: 'Once we have settled our accounts, we will take back control of roughly 350million a week. It would be a fine thing, as many of us have pointed out, if a lot of that money went on the NHS, provided we use that cash injection to modernise and make the most of new technology.'

WHAT BRITAIN REALLY GIVES - AND GETS BACK Boris Johnsons claim that Brexit would free up 350million a week for the NHS sparked one of the biggest rows of the referendum campaign. The controversial 2ft message on the side of the Leave campaign bus read: We send the EU 350million a week. Lets fund our NHS instead. Vote Leave. However, the figure refers to the gross amount sent to Brussels every year. It does not take account either of the rebate  the money which comes back to British scientists and farmers. The amount transferred to the EU in 2014, after the deduction of the rebate, was 276million per week  significantly less than the amount on the bus. However, some eurosceptics say it is wrong to exclude the rebate from the 350million total because the UK does not have full control over its size. Advertisement

Tory MP Nadine Dorries also backed Mr Johnson, claiming Sir David was 'playing politics' by publicly criticising the Foreign Secretary. She tweeted: 'David Norgrove, resign. You are not fit to be head of UK statistics when you deliberately play politics to deceive and distort basic facts.'

In another post, she accused Sir David of being another 'voice of doom', adding: 'He will be warning us about 500,000 unemployed and an emergency budget, next.'

A Downing Street spokesman claimed Mr Johnson had 'clarified' his views, which were already 'well-known'.

Theresa May notably did not rally to Mr Johnson's defence in the row. Asked whether she trusted Sir David or her Foreign Secretary to be right on the figures, she said only: 'The reality is that year on year, the money the UK pays into the European Union changes because of a whole variety of factors.'

Sir David, who has had a string of senior roles at Marks & Spencer, is a former Treasury economist who served as Margaret Thatcher's private secretary.

Shortly after his appointment as chairman of the UK Statistics Authority in April, he pledged to limit his public slapdowns, saying: 'Letters from me should be the last resort.'
FBI investigators wiretapped former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort in the months before and after the election and prosecutors have told him they plan to indict him, according to two sensational reports.

CNN claims that Manafort was the subject of electronic surveillance under a secret court order in 2016 and the start of 2017 as part of an investigation into his ties to Russia.

Separately, two prosecutors working for Special Counsel Robert Mueller told Manafort that they plan to indict him after a raid on his home in July, according to the New York Times.

It marks another two dramatic developments in Robert Mueller's probe into alleged Russian meddling in the election, and also comes after President Trump tweeted in March about alleged wiretapping of his phones.

Government investigators wiretapped former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort in the months before and after the election

The FBI picked the key and raided Paul Manafort's Virginia home in July. After the raid, they reportedly told him he would be indicted

According to the CNN report, the FBI began investigating the Republican operative in 2014 because of his work with Party of the Regions, a centrist pro-Russia political party of Ukraine.

The wiretapping went into 2016 including a run up to the presidential election, according to the explosive report. The investigators initially stopped sometime last year because of lack of evidence.

It is not clear if Trump's was picked up on any of the calls handed over. They continued to talk after he took office in January.

But the FBI restarted the surveillance early this year after obtaining a FISA warrant, meaning the agency may have suggested Manafort was acting as an agency for a foreign power.

MANAFORT AND TRUMP CAMPAIGN: WHAT WE KNOW March 29, 2016: Republican candidate Donald Trump announces ex lobbyist Paul Manafort as his campaign convention manager June 9, 2016: Manafort, Donald Trump Jr and Jared Kushner have a meeting in Trump Tower with a Russian lawyer who claimed she had information about Hillary Clinton that could help the campaign June 20, 2016: Manafort becomes Trump's campaign manager July 31, 2016: The New York Times reports on Manafort's business deals with Party of the Regions, a centrist pro-Russia political party of Ukraine August 19, 2016: Trump removes Manafort as his campaign manager June 15, 2017: The Washington Post reports Robert Mueller is investigating the finances of Trump associates July 26, 2017: The FBI picks the lock and raids Manafort's Virginia home and tells him he will be indicted, according to Monday's New York Times report Source: Factcheck.org Advertisement

It's unclear when the surveillance was restarted, but Robert Mueller was appointed special counsel to investigate alleged Russian meddling in May after Trump fired former FBI director James Comey.

The decision to restart the surveillance under a new FISA warrant came before Manafort's home was dramatically raided by the FBI in July.

Manafort was still in bed when FBI agents, who'd been granted a 'no-knock warrant' picked the front-door lock of his Virginia home, according to the New York Times.

Agents not only seized tax documents, banking records and copied computer files, but they also photographed Manafort's collection of expensive designer suits.

The warrant was allegedly to investigate the ties between Trump campaign members and Russian operatives.

FBI agents at the raid reportedly warned Manafort that his prosecutors were planning to indict him.

Manafort stepped down from the campaign in August of 2016 following reports that he accepted payments from when he worked in Ukraine for the Party of the Regions.

Special counsel Robert Mueller has reportedly been informed with details of Manafort's communications.

Manafort was also in the 2016 meeting with Donald Trump Jr, Jared Kushner and Russian lawyer who said he had information about Hillary Clinton that could help Trump's campaign.

He is under investigation for allegedly violating requirements to disclose foreign lobbying, violating tax laws and violating money-laundering prohibitions.

Earlier this year, president Trump accused the Obama administration of wiretapping Trump Tower.

President Trump accused the Obama administration of wiretapping his phones at Trump Tower in March

President Trump tweeted that he believed Obama wire tapped Trump tower before the 2016 election

It is not clear if the conversations intercepted by the FBI from Manafort include conversations with President Trump

MUELLER'S INVESTIGATION HIGHLIGHTS May 2017: Mueller is appointed on May 17 by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein June 2017: The Washington Post reports Mueller is the special counsel heading the Russia probe The Post reveals Mueller is looking into 'the finances and business dealings' of Jared Kushner and other Trump associates Former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn turns over 600 pages of documents to the Senate intelligence committee Comey testifies under oath that he felt like the president asked him to 'lift the cloud' and publicly say he was not being investigated July 2017: Jared Kushner meets with Senate intelligence committee investigators on July 24 The FBI raids Paul Manafort's home on July 26 August 2017: Mueller investigated President Trump's drafting of Donald Trump Jr's response about meeting with a Russian lawyer to get opposition information about Hillary Clinton The former chief counsel for the Trump Organization reveals the company looked into building a Trump Tower Moscow during the campaign September 2017: Donald Trump meets with Senate judiciary committee investigators in five-hour-long closed session on September 7 Mueller examines Trump's first draft of his letter about why he wanted to fire ex FBI director James Comey Mueller calls in IRS' Criminal Investigations Unit Source: Factcheck.org Advertisement

He tweeted in March: 'Terrible! Just found out that Obama had my 'wires tapped' in Trump Tower just before the victory. Nothing found. This is McCarthyism!'

The same day, the president tweeted: 'How low has President Obama gone to tapp my phones during the very sacred election process. This is Nixon/Watergate. Bad (or sick) guy!'
How far would you go to get an adrenaline rush? To Chinese thrill-seekers, the answer seems to be a row of swings installed on the edge of a sky-high cliff.

A scenic spot in south-west China has been drawing throngs of visitors after installing four swings on the edge of a cliff at some 300 metres (1,000 feet) high last year.

Every day, up to 4,000 people flock to the Wansheng Ordovician Theme Park, situated in Chongqing, to take a ride on the unique swings.

The swings, located in a theme park in south-west China, has been extremely popular

The park receives up to 4,000 visitors every day who want to take a ride on the unique swings

A social media video, posted by People's Daily Online on YouTube on September 17, shows tourists having fun riding the swings.

They are seen being strapped to the seats of the swings with safety belts while workers at the theme park push them out as hard as possible.

One male tourist can be heard saying 'I want it again and higher' as he moves back and forth over the scary drop.

According to the Wansheng Ordovician Theme Park, the swings are located at an altitude of 1,300 metres (4,265 feet). They are around 300 metres (1,000 feet) above the ground.

A total of four cliff swings have been built by the park.

Two of them, with ropes measuring four metres (13 feet) long, are open to tourists. The other two, with ropes measuring six and eight metres long (19 and 26.2 feet) respectively, are reserved for acrobatic performance.

The two swings open to the tourists have ropes measuring four metres (13 feet) long

Since it was open last year, the cliff-side swings have been a star attraction for the park

Apart from the two swings open to tourists, the park has two others swings built for acrobatic performance. Their ropes measure six and eight metres long (19 and 26.2 feet) respectively

'3,000 to 4,000 tourists can ride the swings every day during the peak season,' a spokesperson from the park told MailOnline.

'Because workers have to manage the swings manually, we have limited availability. Many tourists who fail to ride them are very disappointed.

'A lot of young people come to our park just for the swings.'

The glass-bottomed walkway is built on the side of a cliff face in the park at 390 feet high

It has been accredited as the world's longest cantilevered glass-bottomed walkway

The park spent one year and around 40 million yuan (4.5 million) building the star attraction

The swings are said to be one of the two most popular attractions at the theme park.

The other one is the glass-bottomed bridge which juts from a cliff face above a 390-foot drop.

The transparent walkway extends more than 80 metres (262 feet) from a cliff face above a vertigo-inducing 120-metre drop (390 feet).

The impressive A-shaped bridge, which cost 40 million yuan (4.5 million) to build, has overtaken another observation deck in Chongqing to become the world's longest cantilevered glass-bottomed walkway.

No more than 30 visitors are allowed to stand on the bridge at any one time.
Killer robots of the future will need more powerful chips to allow them to process vast amounts of data.

The US military has now announced it is investing $900 million (665 million) on advanced materials and technologies to make these processors a reality.

It hope its efforts will enable the 50 years of growth in micro-processing power to continue over the coming century.

This will allow for the creation of advanced AI systems, ranging from killing machines to cars, planes and other autonomous technology.

Advanced AI systems of the future will need more powerful chips to allow them to process vast amounts of data. The US military announced it is investing $900 million on materials and technologies to make these processors a reality (stock image from The Terminator)

MOORE'S LAW Gordon Moore was one of the giants of the microelectronics revolution and was the co-founder of Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel. In 1965, Moore famously predicted that the transistor-count of integrated circuits would double every year or two while the cost per transistor would decrease. This prediction, that computing power would double roughly every two years, has been proved accurate. It has been used in the microchip industry to guide long-term planning and to set targets for research and development. But rising manufacturing costs and the limitations of existing chip technologies mean that new avenues of research are needed for this pace of growth to continue in the future. Advertisement

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Electronics Resurgence Initiatives will create six new programs over the next four years.

These are aimed at ensuring the predictions made by Moore's law, which have governed the increases in microchip processing power, will continue to apply to chip development.

Three areas will be focused on, materials and integration, circuit design, and systems architecture.

The project will see $75 million (55 million) spent each year on each of these research and development aims.

Bill Chappell, director of the Agencys Microsystems Technology Office, said: 'Moore's Law has guided the electronics industry for more than 50 years.

'Moores Law has set the technology community on a quest for continued scaling and those who have mastered the technology to date have enjoyed the greatest commercial benefits and the greatest gains in defense capabilities.

'The current trajectory is straining commercial and defense developments.'

Gordon Moore was one of the giants of the microelectronics revolution and was the co-founder of Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel.

DARPA hope its efforts will enable the 50 years of growth in micro-processing power to continue over the coming century. Their research hopes to ensure the predictions made by Moore's law, that computing power would double roughly every two years, will continue

In 1965, Moore famously predicted that the transistor-count of integrated circuits would double every year or two while the cost per transistor would decrease.

This prediction, that computing power would double roughly every two years, has been proved accurate.

It has been used in the microchip industry to guide long-term planning and to set targets for research and development.

But rising manufacturing costs and the limitations of existing chip technologies mean that new avenues of research are needed for this pace of growth to continue in the future.

It follows an announcement in June that the US military is investing $65 million into a programme to develop a 'brain chip' allowing humans to simply plug into a computer.

It says the system could give soldiers supersenses and even help treat people with blindness, paralysis and speech disorders

The goal is 'developing an implantable system able to provide precision communication between the brain and the digital world,' DARPA officials said.
Advertisement

New satellite images have shown that a trillion ton iceberg which broke off Antarctica has begun to drift farther out to sea.

The huge chunk of ice, dubbed A68, which is around the size of Delaware or four times the size of Greater London, made its final break back in July after a crack began to form in 2014.

It was unclear what would happen to giant mass, as icebergs can remain in place for many years, but experts fear the break could see the berg disintegrate into pieces too small to track on satellite.

If these drift into shipping lanes, they could pose a significant risk to vessels in the region.

Scroll down for video

New satellite images have shown that a trillion ton iceberg which broke off Antarctica has begun to drift out to sea. Experts fear the break could see the berg disintegrate into pieces too small to track on satellite. If these drift into shipping lanes, they could pose a significant risk to vessels in the region

THE BIRTH OF A68 In early July, a huge crack in Antarctica's Larsen C ice shelf caused a trillion ton iceberg - the third biggest ever recorded - to break off from the icy southern continent. The huge chunk of ice, dubbed iceberg A-68, measures 5,800 square kilometres (2,240 square miles), making it around the size of Delaware, or four times the area covered by Greater London. Advertisement

Professor Stef Lhermitte, of Delft University in the Netherlands, shared the latest satellite images of A68 on Twitter.

He said: 'After some initial back-and-forth movement, Larsen C's iceberg A68 seems on drift now.'

He added that the iceberg 'continues to drift', and posted a graphic comparing A68's position on Saturday to a another image taken on Wednesday.

The comparison shows a clear drift away from the Antarctic ice shelf.

Scientists have claimed that global warming did not play a role in the calving of the iceberg, according to reports in the Independent.

Dr Natalie Robinson, a marine physicist at New Zealands National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, told the site it was 'a "normal", if relatively large, calving event' and 'very different from the collapse of its neighbouring ice shelves'.

But Professor Nancy Bertler, of the Antarctic Research Centre at Victoria University of Wellington, said global warming and the hole in the ozone layer had caused the sudden break-up of 'numerous ice shelves' in the region 'some of which have been shown to have existed for 10,000 years or more'.

Professor Stef Lhermitte, of Delft University in the Netherlands, shared the latest satellite images of A68 on Twitter. The comparison shows a clear drift away from the Antarctic ice shelf.

National Centre for Earth Observation scientists David Moore shared this up to date image of the region take with the Sentinel 3 satellite on September 16

In early July, a huge crack in Antarctica's Larsen C ice shelf caused the trillion ton iceberg - the third biggest ever recorded - to break off from the icy southern continent.

The huge chunk of ice, dubbed iceberg A-68, measures 5,800 square kilometres (2,240 square miles), making it around the size of Delaware, or four times the area covered by Greater London.

New pictures captured via satellite imagery show iceberg A-68 in stunning detail as it drifts from Antarctica, where it could remain in the open sea for years.

In early July, a huge crack in Antarctica's Larsen C ice shelf caused a trillion ton iceberg to break off from the icy continent. New satellite images show the iceberg in stunning detail, including this zoomed-in view of iceberg A-68 (bottom left corner), Antarctica's Larsen C ice shelf (top and righthand segments), taken in late July by the Deimos 2 satellite

WAS CLIMATE CHANGE RESPONSIBLE FOR A68 Reporting this week in the Nature journal Climate Change, Dr Anna Hogg and Dr Hilmar Gudmundsson examine the events leading up to this dramatic natural phenomenon. They also discuss how calving of huge icebergs affects the stability of Antarctic ice shelves. Their article argues that a calving event is not necessarily due to changes in environmental conditions. Instead, it may simply reflect the natural growth and decay cycle of an ice shelf. Advertisement

Despite the iceberg breaking off some time between July 10-12, scientists have struggled to take images of A-68 because Antarctica is currently going through its winter season.

Since the split, researchers have relied on polar satellites like Sentinel-1, which uses radar to peer through thick cloud cover.

But a few clear days in late July gave Spanish satellite firm Deimos Imaging a visible-light view using Deimos-1 and Deimos-2 - a pair of satellites that work as a tag-team.

'These images are striking - easily the best I have seen since calving,' Adrian Luckman, a glaciologist at Swansea University and a member of the Antarctic research program Project Midas, told Business Insider.

The team's Deimos-1 satellite captures wider-angle, medium-resolution images while Deimos-2 takes zoomed-in, very-high-resolution pictures.

When combined the images can capture both vast, wide angle views of the scale of the Larsen C crack, as well as detailed up-close views of individual details.

The team's Deimos-1 satellite captures wider-angle, medium-resolution images (main image) while Deimos-2 takes zoomed-in, very-high-resolution images (insets)

The huge chunk of ice, dubbed iceberg A-68 by scientists, measures 5,800 square kilometres (2,240 square miles), making it around the size of Delaware or four times the area covered by Greater London. This wide-angle view shows iceberg A-68 (central shape) and Antarctica's Larsen C ice shelf (rest of image) and was taken by the Deimos-1 satellite in late July

The new images follow the news that cracks were spreading where the A-68 iceberg broke free from the Larsen C ice shelf.

Scientists released satellite footage of the moment the Antarctic Peninsula lost 10 per cent of its area earlier this month.

Since that time, experts have been following the fate of the huge iceberg as a rift has grown between the mainland and the mass of frozen water.

They have found that cracks are still growing on the ice shelf, and if they continue to grow, it's possible that the ice shelf could collapse.

If all of Larsen C collapses, the ice it holds back might add another 4 inches (10 cm) to global sea levels over the years.

A few clear days in July gave Spanish satellite firm Deimos Imaging a visible-light using Deimos-1 and Deimos-2 - a pair of satellites that work as a tag-team. This image shows Larsen C (left of crack) and iceberg A-68 (right of crack), taken by Deimos-2 in late July

WHAT IS ITS IMPACT? Icebergs calve from Antarctica all the time, but because this one is particularly large its path across the ocean needs to be monitored as it could pose a hazard to maritime traffic. The massive ice cube will float in water and by itself will not add to sea levels when it melts. But the real danger is from inland glaciers. Ice shelves float on the sea, extending from the coast, and are fed by slow-flowing glaciers from the land. They act as giant brakes, preventing glaciers from flowing directly into the ocean. If the glaciers held in check by Larsen C now split into the Antarctic Ocean, it could lift the global water mark by about 10 centimetres (four inches), researchers have said. Advertisement

Dr Anna Hogg, from the University of Leeds and Dr Hilmar Gudmundsson, from the British Antarctic Survey, have continued to track the iceberg, known as A68, since the July 12 breakaway.

Using the European Space Agency's (ESA) Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, they have found that, since the calving event, the berg has started to drift away from the Larsen-C.

Open ocean is now clearly visible in the approximately five kilometre gap between the berg and the ice-shelf.

A cluster of over 11 'smaller' icebergs have also now formed, the largest of which is over eight miles (13km) long.

Dr Anna Hogg, from the University of Leeds and Dr Hilmar Gudmundsson, from the British Antarctic Survey, have continued to track the iceberg, known as A68, since the July 12 breakaway. This Sentinel-1 data shows network of cracks grow on the Larsen-C Ice-Shelf, before and after the colossal iceberg broke free

The iceberg is one of the 10 largest icebergs ever recorded. A graphic shows how the iceberg compares in size

These 'bergy bits', as the experts are describing them, have broken off both the giant iceberg and the remaining ice-shelf.

Dr Hogg, an ESA research fellow in the centre for polar observation and modelling at Leeds, said: 'The satellite images reveal a lot of continuing action on Larsen-C Ice Shelf.

'We can see that the remaining cracks continue to grow towards a feature called Bawden Ice Rise, which provides important structural support for the remaining ice shelf.

'If an ice shelf loses contact with the ice rise, either through sustained thinning or a large iceberg calving event, it can prompt a significant acceleration in ice speed, and possibly further destabilisation.

'It looks like the Larsen-C story might not be over yet.'

This image shows the view of the A68 iceberg from a European Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite image acquired on July 30

Scientists released satellite footage of the aftermath of the Antarctic Peninsula losing 10 per cent of its area earlier this month. This Sentinel-1 image shows the colossal iceberg (shown in blue) after it had broken free and the 'bergy bits' described by the experts began to break off
Doting aunts can do a lot to give their nieces and nephews the best start in life but few would serve up their own flesh for dinner.

In an act of incredible self-sacrifice, velvet spiders offer their own bodies as a nutritious snack for demanding offspring while they're still alive, researchers found.

The young spiders suck out their virgin aunt's insides as her body naturally liquefies, reducing her to a crispy outer shell.

Scroll down for video

In an act of incredible self-sacrifice, velvet spiders (pictured) offer their own bodies as nutritious snacks for demanding offspring while they're still alive, researchers found

WHY DO THEY DO IT? There are many more female velvet spiders than males and only some of the females are able to reproduce. Each of these spiders only live for a year and reproduce just once. This means virgin spiders benefit from assisting a closely related relative as it propagates their own genes. These spiders also often live in arid landscapes and deserts so sacrificing your body will often provide more food for young ones than they could find by hunting for food. Advertisement

Research led by Aarhus University looked at what happens in the dense silk retreat of velvet spiders (Stegodyphus dumicola) who live in large communal nests.

'[The] spiders literally start feeding on the female while she is alive', Trine Bilde from Aarhus University told New Scientist.

'But there is no apparent aggression. It looks as if females are almost inviting spiderlings to feed on them', she said.

Each of these spiders only live for a year and reproduce just once.

Researchers studied two mated velvet spiders and three virgin females along with some spiderlings.

They found all the female spiders looked after egg sacs and regurgitated food - finally offering themselves up as a meal, regardless if the spiderlings were their own or not.

The process of looking after offspring who are not one's own is called 'alloparenting'.

'The investment in these offspring is an investment in her lifetime reproductive success,' said Dr Bilde.

Each of these spiders only live for a year and reproduce just once. This means virgin spiders benefit from assisting a closely related relative as it propagates their own genes. A mother (orange back) and an unpaired female (green back) together at the brood photo

'The more gene copies she propagates to the next generation, the better, so providing your body as food is a sensible evolutionary solution', she said.

In 2015 researchers found closely related female velvet spiders (Stegodyphus lineatus) biologically prepare themselves to be eaten by their young because their abdominal tissue degenerates to make them more palatable.

By time the offspring hatch, a large portion of the mothers body has started to degrade her tissues are partially liquefied.

Researcher Anja Junghanns told MailOnline the process is probably similar with the virgin aunts, although 'the liquifying process could possibly be less extreme or slower'.

Researchers studied two mated velvet spiders and three virgin females along with some spiderlings. A breeding female is pictured with an egg

'If and how the virgin females are able to undergo the same histological changes (that seem to be triggered by the event of producing an egg sac in the subsocial mothers) remains to be investigated.'

'And that is the next step I am working on actually', Dr Junghanns said.

There are many more female velvet spiders than males and only some of the females are able to reproduce.

'In the social spider Stegodyphus dumicola, approximately 40 per cent of females reproduce, and mothers show extended maternal care', researchers wrote in their paper.

'Therefore, extreme allomaternal care by virgin helpers can be considered an adaptation to cooperative breeding in social spiders.'

Virgin spiders benefit from assisting a closely related relative as it propagates their own genes.

These spiders also often live in arid landscapes and deserts so sacrificing their own body will often provide more food for young ones than they could find by hunting for food.
Climate change is speeding up dramatically because of red snow, according to new research.

Algae living on Arctic glaciers are turning the surface crimson reducing their ability to reflect sunlight.

And it is creating a vicious circle - particularly on the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets - as the extra meltwater fuels the growth of more microbes.

Scroll down for video

Red snow (pictured in Antarctica) is caused by a cold-loving, fresh-water algae known as Chlamydomonas nivalis that contains a scarlet pigment

WHAT IS RED SNOW? It is caused by a cold-loving, fresh-water algae known as Chlamydomonas nivalis that contains a scarlet pigment. Also known as 'watermelon snow' it's common during summertime along coastal polar regions - as well as high alpine areas. But the snow-dwelling microbes could substantially quicken glacier melt by making the surface darker and decreasing its reflectivity. This in turn encourages the growth of more algae, according to the study published in Nature Geoscience. Professor Roman Dial said although fresh white snow reflects most sunlight impurities such as black carbon and dust can darken the surface. This dirty snow increases glacial melting as the snow warms more easily. The specialised algae living on glaciers have a similar effect as they change the snow to red - making it darker than unaffected landscape. Advertisement

The phenomenon has not been factored into climate models and ignoring it risks 'underestimating rates of warming and consequent sea level rise,' said biologist Professor Roman Dial from Alaska Pacific University.

Red snow as 'dark as red port' was first discovered 200 years ago in the fabled North-West Passage - a treacherous ice-bound sea route linking the North Atlantic to the Pacific via the Arctic Circle.

But it's effect on global warming through the acceleration of thaw is only now coming to light.

Experiments on an Alaskan ice field showed red snow increased melting by almost a fifth.

It is caused by a cold-loving, fresh-water algae known as Chlamydomonas nivalis that contains a scarlet pigment.

Also known as 'watermelon snow' it's common during summertime along coastal polar regions - as well as high alpine areas.

But the snow-dwelling microbes could substantially speed up glacier melt by making the surface darker and decreasing its reflectivity.

This in turn encourages the growth of more algae, according to the study published in Nature Geoscience.

Professor Dial said although fresh white snow reflects most sunlight impurities such as black carbon and dust can darken the surface.

This dirty snow increases glacial melting as the snow warms more easily.

The specialised algae living on glaciers have a similar effect as they change the snow to red - making it darker than unaffected landscape.

Algae living on Arctic glaciers (pictured) are turning the surface crimson - reducing their ability to reflect sunlight. Also known as 'watermelon snow' it's common during summetime along coastal polar regions - as well as high alpine areas

Snow-dwelling microbes could substantially quicken glacier melt by making the surface darker and decreasing its reflectivity. This also encourages growth of more algae (pictured)

Professor Dial, of Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage, said: 'This study highlights the substantial impact of red-snow communities on glacier melt at high elevations and latitudes.

'Experimental results presented here, together with previous correlative observations, laboratory experiments and theoretical calculations provide a compelling case for the magnitude of the glacier microbiome's effect on hydrology and climate.'

In the study Professor Dial and colleagues added nutrients and water to different areas of snow on an Alaskan glacier.

Compared to a control area left undisturbed there was about 50 per cent more algae when water was added - and almost four times as much when the fertiliser called nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium was included.

Using data from satellites to estimate snowmelt across an area of 1,180 square miles (1,900 sq km) they showed red-snow algae (pictured in the Base Orcadas in Argentina) increased melting by about 17 per cent

WHAT DID THEY DO? In the study Professor Dial and colleagues added nutrients and water to different areas of snow on an Alaskan glacier. Compared to a control area left undisturbed there was about 50 per cent more algae when water was added - and almost four times as much when the fertiliser called nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium was included. Using data from satellites to estimate snowmelt across an area of 1,180 square miles (1,900 sq km) they showed red-snow algae increased melting by about 17 per cent. Advertisement

Using data from satellites to estimate snowmelt across an area of 1,180 square miles (1,900 sq km) they showed red-snow algae increased melting by about 17 per cent.

'The red-snow area extended over about 700 sq km (435 sq miles) and in this area we determined microbial communities were responsible for 17 per cent of the total snow melt there', said Professor Dial.

He said as the areas of algae-covered red snow generate more meltwater this could lead to a feedback of more microbial growth and glacial melting.

Due to their red pigmentation the algal blooms change their 'albedo' - the amount of light reflected off the surface of an object.

Just as black concrete is much hotter than pale glaciers covered in red absorb more light and melt at a faster rate.

This sets off a chain reaction of additional melting as the meltwater creates a habitat for algae to colonise and low-albedo rocks and dirty ice underneath glaciers are exposed.

Red snow was first reported by Captain John Ross's 1818 expedition through the Northwest Passage. Pictured is Chlamydomonas algae turning from green to red when placed on snow in North America

'A lack of liquid water limits life on glaciers worldwide but specialised microbes still colonise these environments', said Professor Dial.

'These microbes reduce surface albedo which in turn could lead to warming and enhanced glacier melt.

'Our results support hypotheses snow-dwelling microbes increase glacier melt directly in a bio-geophysical feedback by lowering albedo and indirectly by exposing low-albedo glacier ice.'

Two things keep the Arctic ice sheets stable - one is the temperature and the other the albedo or reflectivity of the ice.

'Given an upward-elevation shift with warming, algae will increase most rapidly across flat, snow covered topography, such as Greenlandic and Antarctic ice sheets, regions with critical albedo effects on global climate', said Professor Dial.

'Worldwide ash from biomass burning and dust from agricultural regions are increasingly deposited on these high-latitude ice sheets.

'This airborne nutrient input - together with growing meltwater availability - will certainly increase the glacier microbiome's impact on polar albedo.

'Climate and melt models that ignore the ecology of microbial radiative forcing risk underestimating rates of warming and consequent sea level rise.'

Red snow was first reported by Captain John Ross's 1818 expedition through the Northwest Passage.

He said there were patches or streaks across snowfields some of which was 'so dark a red as to resemble red port wine.'
The long-lost site of an infamous Victorian colony of 'free love' socialists which encouraged wife-swapping has been discovered by archaeologists near the Cambrdigeshire town of Littleport.

The Manea Fen community was set up by Cambridgeshire farmer and Methodist minister William Hodson in 1838 to pursue his vision of a socialist utopia.

He aimed to establish a cooperative community where everyone would be 'equal,' money and marriage were abolished and everyone worked together.

But the colony set in a 200 acres of farmland only lasted 25 months because after many female members were offended by the principle of free love and the people it attracted.

Scroll down for video

Using magazine articles describing the colony, archaeologists from Cambridge University have excavated parts of the former site near Littleport (pictured)

The Manea Fen working community (artist's impression) was set up by Cambridgeshire farmer and Methodist minister William Hodson in 1838 to pursue his vision of a socialist utopia

MANEA FEN COMMUNITY The Manea Fen community was set up by Cambridgeshire farmer and Methodist minister William Hodson in 1838 to pursue his vision of a socialist utopia. But the colony set in a 200 acres of farmland only lasted 25 months because after many female members were offended by the principle of free love and the people it attracted. In the 25 months the colony ran, rumours spread about the ongoings of the community, accusations of polygamy and inappropriate behaviour surfaced. 'In the early days, they got the wrong people, they had no labour skills and put in no time and effort, they were drunk, went into local brothels, and thought they could build a utopia without breaking a sweat' said historian Dr Marcus Brittain. Advertisement

Now, using magazine articles describing the colony, archaeologists from Cambridge University have excavated parts of the former site near Littleport.

Leading the research, Dr Marcus Brittain's wanted to see 'how much truth' was in the writings of the group.

He said: 'They created their own order, outside the norms of an industrial capitalist society.

'They organised their own hierarchy with their own framework.'

His team have unearthed kitchen areas, terraced buildings, and court yards where couples roamed.

Word spread about the new community in Manchester newspapers in order to recruit members.

The only problem was, the kind of the people it attracted were not particularly skilled.

'In the early days, they got the wrong people, they had no labour skills and put in no time and effort, they were drunk, went into local brothels, and thought they could build a utopia without breaking a sweat' said Dr Brittain.

In the 25 months the colony ran, rumours spread about the ongoings of the community, accusations of polygamy and inappropriate behaviour surfaced.

Dr Brittain added: 'They laid down the basic foundation and hoped it would thrive, but it required long-term perspective.

'They ran out of money and people realised how difficult it would be to create this kind of life.'

The long-lost site of the infamous Victorian colony of 'free love' socialists which encouraged wife-swapping has been discovered by archaeologists near Littleport

The face of Utopia found at the site at Manea. The aim was to establish a cooperative community where everyone would be 'equal,' money and marriage were abolished and everyone worked together

People who entered the colony came from the north of England, from Salford, Manchester and parts of Birmingham. Pictured are tobacco pipes found by archaeologists

Magazines at the time criticised the project but their vision inspired a nearby settlement called Queenswood in 1939 which also failed.

At the time, the utopian movement was a sizeable network which was popular with people as they put money to fund one of these communities.

People who entered the colony were part of the network and came from the north of England, from Salford, Manchester and parts of Birmingham.

However Dr Brittain said the settlements helped inspire a broader utopian vision that still functions today.

He noted that they had the right idea, just not the right execution.

At the time, the utopian movement was a sizeable network which was popular with people as they put money to fund one of these communities. Pictured is a horse shoe found on site

Researchers unearthed kitchen areas, terraced buildings, and court yards where couples roamed. Word spread about the new community in Manchester newspapers in order to recruit members. Pictured are some of their finds

The colony only lasted 25 months because many female members were offended by the people it attracted, sources say. Pictured are pieces of leather discovered at the site

Local historian, Mike Petty, noted that archaeologists (pictured) found evidence of centrally heated brick houses which a lot of the buildings at the time did not have

Local historian, Mike Petty, noted that archaeologists found evidence of centrally heated brick houses which a lot of the buildings at the time did not have.

Mr Petty also shed some light on some of the influences of founder William Hodson.

'Robert Owen (socialist) was concerned with the treatment of the poor, he had an idea to set up a colony in the fens, something that would be 'all for one and one for all,'

'It was this Owenite vision that William wanted to carry out but all fell apart very nastily' said Mr Petty.

Mr Petty told of what happened to William after the failure of the colony. 'William Hodson disappeared, he went to America (in 1846), and formed a new colony, Jane's Ville, [Wisconsin)].'

The project was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the Ouse Washes Landscape Partnership.

In the 25 months the Littleport colony ran, rumours spread about the ongoings of the community, accusations of polygamy and inappropriate behaviour surfaced
The Campi Flegrei volcano hasn't erupted since 1538, but experts have warned that it could be building up to another devastating eruption.

Scientists have found the first direct evidence of a 'hot-zone' feeding the supervolcano.

While the experts are unsure what this means in terms of the scale of a future eruption, they say there is 'no doubt' that the volcano is becoming more dangerous.

Scroll down for video

Scientists have found the first direct evidence of a 'hot-zone' feeding the Campi Flegrei supervolcano

KEY FINDINGS Researchers have pinpointed the location of the hot zone where hot materials rose to feed the caldera in the 1980s when the injection of either magma or fluids in the shallower structure of the volcano caused a series of small earthquakes. The research provides a benchmark that may help predict how and where future eruptions could strike. The study suggests that magma was prevented from rising to the surface in the 1980s by the presence of a 1-2 km-deep (0.6-1.2 mile-deep) rock formation that blocked its path, forcing it to release stress along a lateral route. While the implications of this are still not fully understood, the relatively low amount of seismic activity in the area since the 1980s suggests that pressure is building within the caldera, making it more dangerous. Advertisement

Campi Flegrei is a supervolcano near Naples that has been relatively quiet since the 1980s when the injection of either magma or fluids in the shallower structure of the volcano caused a series of small earthquakes.

Researchers from the University of Aberdeen have now pinpointed the location of the zone where hot materials rose to feed the caldera during this period.

The research provides a benchmark that may help predict how and where future eruptions could strike.

Dr Luca De Siena, lead author of the study, said: 'One question that has puzzled scientists is where magma is located beneath the caldera, and our study provides the first evidence of a hot zone under the city of Pozzuoli that extends into the sea at a depth of 4 km (2.4 miles).

'While this is the most probable location of a small batch of magma, it could also be the heated fluid-filled top of a wider magma chamber, located even deeper.'

The study suggests that magma was prevented from rising to the surface in the 1980s by the presence of a 1-2 km-deep (0.6-1.2 mile-deep) rock formation that blocked its path, forcing it to release stress along a lateral route.

While the implications of this are still not fully understood, the relatively low amount of seismic activity in the area since the 1980s suggests that pressure is building within the caldera, making it more dangerous.

Dr De Siena explained: 'During the last 30 years the behaviour of the volcano has changed, with everything becoming hotter due to fluids permeating the entire caldera.

While the Campi Flegrei volcano hasn't erupted since 1538, experts have warned that it could be building up to another devastating eruption

THE 'CRITICAL STAGE' Unrest since the 1950s has been causing a build-up of energy in the crust and making the volcano more vulnerable to eruption. Until now, scientists had thought that the energy needed to stretch the crust was lost after each period of unrest. The episodes of unrest are caused by the movement of magma around three kilometres below the volcano. An eruption becomes more likely when the ground has been stretched to its breaking point. This is because the molten rock can escape to the surface when the ground splits apart. But it is difficult to pinpoint when an eruption will occur, because even if the ground breaks, it is possible for the magma to stall before reaching the surface. Advertisement

'Whatever produced the activity under Pozzuoli in the 1980s has migrated somewhere else, so the danger doesn't just lie in the same spot, it could now be much nearer to Naples which is more densely populated.

'This means that the risk from the caldera is no longer just in the centre, but has migrated. Indeed, you can now characterise Campi Flegrei as being like a boiling pot of soup beneath the surface.

'What this means in terms of the scale of any future eruption we cannot say, but there is no doubt that the volcano is becoming more dangerous.

'The big question we have to answer now is if it is a big layer of magma that is rising to the surface, or something less worrying which could find its way to the surface out at sea.'

The study comes just months after experts predicted that Campi Flegrei is reaching a 'critical stage' leading up to an eruption.

Experts from UCL and the Vesuvius Observatory in Naples studied the patterns of unrest since Campi Flegrei's last eruption 500 years ago.

The unrest since the 1950s has been causing a build-up of energy in the crust and making the volcano more vulnerable to eruption

CAMPI FLEGREI The Campi Flegrei crater was formed 39,000 years ago in a blast that threw hundreds of cubic kilometres of lava, rock and debris into the air. It was the largest eruption in Europe in the past 200,000 years, according to scientists. Campi Flegrei last erupted in 1538, though on a much smaller scale. Nearby Mount Vesuvius, whose massive eruption just over 2,000 years ago buried several Roman settlements in the area, including Pompeii, is also classified as an active volcano. Advertisement

The volcano has been restless for 67 years, with two-year periods of unrest in the 1950s, 1970s and 1980s causing small, local earthquakes and ground uplift.

Similar unrest occurred over 500 years ago, when it took a century to build up to an eruption in 1538.

Using a new model, the researchers investigated whether Campi Flegrei may again be preparing to erupt.

They found that the unrest since the 1950s has been causing a build-up of energy in the crust and making the volcano more vulnerable to eruption.

Until now, scientists had thought that the energy needed to stretch the crust was lost after each period of unrest.

Dr Christopher Kilburn, who led the study, said: 'By studying how the ground is cracking and moving at Campi Flegrei, we think it may be approaching a critical stage where further unrest will increase the possibility of an eruption, and it's imperative that the authorities are prepared for this.

Campi Flegrei covers more than 100 square kilometres (38.6 square miles) outside the western suburbs of Naples

'We don't know when or if this long-term unrest will lead to an eruption, but Campi Flegrei is following a trend we've seen when testing our model on other volcanoes, including Rabaul in Papua New Guinea, El Hierro in the Canary Islands, and Soufriere Hills on Montserrat in the Caribbean.

'We are getting closer to forecasting eruptions at volcanoes that have been quiet for generations by using detailed physical models to understand how the preceding unrest develops.'

The episodes of unrest are caused by the movement of magma around three kilometres below the volcano.

An eruption becomes more likely when the ground has been stretched to its breaking point, because the molten rock can escape to the surface when the ground splits apart.

The researchers predict that an eruption today would affect the 360,000 people living across the caldera (pictured) and Naples' population of nearly one million

But it is difficult to pinpoint when an eruption will occur, because even if the ground breaks, it is possible for the magma to stall before reaching the surface.

Although it hasn't erupted, unrest at the volcano has already caused severe social disturbances in Campi Flegrei.

Together, the three episodes of uplift have pushed the port of Pozzuoli more than three metres out of the sea.

Dr Stefano Calino, who also worked on the study, said: 'The unrest in 1970 and 1983 caused tens of thousands of people to be evacuated from Pozzuoli itself.'

Campi Flegrei covers more than 100 square kilometres (38.6 square miles) outside the western suburbs of Naples.

An eruption of the Camp Flegrei supervolcano would dwarf the devastation caused by Mount Vesuvius on the otherside of Naples (illustrated)

The researchers predict that an eruption today would affect the 360,000 people living across the caldera and Naples' population of nearly one million.

Professor Giuseppe De Natale, who also worked on the study, said: 'Most damage in previous crises was caused by the seismic shaking of buildings.

'Our findings show that we must be ready for a greater amount of local seismicity during another uplift and that we must adapt our preparations for another emergency, whether or not it leads to an eruption.'
The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 2,370C (4,298F) - just shy of half the sun's temperature, researchers have discovered.

The record high was caused by an asteroid impact which led to the formation of the 28-kilometer diameter Mistastin Lake crater in Canada.

The findings are based on the presence of cubic zirconia, a diamond-like stone which can only form at temperatures of 2,370C or higher.

Scroll down for video

The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 2,370C (4,298F) - just shy of half the sun's temperature. The record high was caused by an asteroid impact which led to the formation of the 28-kilometer diameter Mistastin Lake crater in Canada (pictured)

HOW THEY DID IT Researchers from Curtin University in Perth, Australia and Western University in London, Ontario investigated the structure of zirconia sampled from the 28-kilometer diameter Mistastin Lake in northern Labrador, Canada. The researchers found evidence that the crater impact was hot enough that a mineral called zircon was transformed to cubic zirconia plus silica in impact melt , which required super-heating in excess of 2,370C. They did this by analyzing the structure a zircon grain near the crater wall. The crystals among zirconia grains preserve the phase transformation history of the crystal, so researchers can trace back how they formed. Advertisement

The study, published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters, was conducted by researchers from Curtin University in Perth, Australia and Western University in London, Ontario.

The researchers found evidence that the crater impact was hot enough that a mineral called zircon was transformed to cubic zirconia plus silica in impact melt , which required super-heating in excess of 2,370C.

'This new temperature determination is the highest recorded from any crustal rock,' the researchers wrote in their study.

The Mistastin Lake crater in Labrador, Canada, shows evidence of an asteroid impact, for example the presence of glass-like minerals and melt rocks.

'Nobody has even considered using zirconia as a recorder of temperatures of impact melts before,' Dr Nicholas Timms, the lead author of the research, told New Scientist.

According to the researchers, minerals have a tendency to vaporize at such high temperatures, so their discovery of cubic zirconia offers insights as to what occurred approximately 38 million years ago.

The Earth's record high temperature of 2,370C (4,298F) was caused by an asteroid impact which led to the formation of the 28-kilometer diameter Mistastin Lake crater in Canada

The asteroid strike took place during the Eocene geological time period, after the dinosaurs had already gone extinct about 65 million years ago, and, according to the University of California Museum of Paleontology, when mammals first began appearing.

According to the researchers, the asteroid was just one of the impacts that took place at a time when asteroid impacts on Earth were common.

'Moderate sized impacts, comparable to Mistastin, are predicted to have completely resurfaces the Earth within the first tens of million of years after the Moon-forming event,' the researchers wrote in their study.

The researchers say that their study has implications for the early evolution of the geochemical conditions of Earth and the composition of its crust.
US defense group Northrop Grumman will buy out the rocket and missile maker Orbital ATK in a deal worth $9.2 billion, the firms said on Monday.

The announcement comes around two weeks after industrial conglomerate United Technologies acquired aerospace supplier Rockwell Collins in a $30 billion deal.

'Northrop Grumman will acquire Orbital ATK for approximately $7.8 billion in cash, plus the assumption of $1.4 billion in net debt,' the companies said in a statement.

Scroll down for video

Northrop Grumman will buy out the rocket and missile maker Orbital ATK in a deal worth $9.2 billion

LUCRATIVE LAUNCH In 2015, Northrop won an $80 billion mega-contract from the US military for the Long Range Strike Bomber planned for the mid-2020s. Orbital ATK has contracts with NASA as well as the U.S. Army and the deal would give Northrop more than $4.4 billion in annual revenue according to Orbital's 2016 financials. Advertisement

The transaction, which is expected to close in the first half of 2018, has been approved by the companies' boards of directors but is still subject to regulatory and Orbital shareholder approval.

Northrop is valued at $46.5 billion, while Orbital - which specializes in making rocket launchers and missiles, including for Elon Musk's SpaceX - is valued at $6.3 billion.

The deal comes amid high tensions with North Korea and as American defense firms are under pressure to maintain their profit margins while customers demand better value for money.

In 2015, Northrop won an $80 billion mega-contract from the US military for the Long Range Strike Bomber planned for the mid-2020s.

Orbital ATK has contracts with NASA as well as the U.S. Army and the deal would give Northrop more than $4.4 billion in annual revenue according to Orbital's 2016 financials.

Orbital's rocket motors, missiles and electro-optical countermeasure product lines would enlarge Northrop's offerings to its largest customer, the U.S. Department of Defense, analyst Byron Callan of Capital Alpha Partners LLC said in a research note on Sunday.

The deal is noteworthy not only because it boosts Northrop's exposure to missile defense, but also because the company has not bought a large rival in many years.

Despite infrequent strategic mergers, Northrop has not shied away from bold corporate actions to please investors.

In 2011 Northrop spun off its Huntington Ingalls Industries shipbuilding business to shareholders. In 2009, it sold its government services business, TASC.

Orbital ATK specializes in making rocket launchers and missiles. Pictured, one of firm's rockets taking off

Northrop's last buying spree more than a decade ago included the 2002 purchase of TRW Inc for about $7.8 billion.

Based on Friday's closing stock price, Northrop was valued at $46.5 billion.

The acquisition price could exceed $7.5 billion if a typical premium was attached to it, the Wall Street Journal said in a report published earlier on Sunday.

Another reason for the deal could be the Pentagon's efforts to rebuild missiles defenses.

The Air Force had asked the defense industry last summer for proposals to replace the aging nuclear cruise missiles and intercontinental ballistic missile system as the military moved ahead with a costly modernization of its aging atomic weapons systems.

In August, Northrop received a $328 million contract to continue developing a replacement of the aging Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system for the U.S. Air Force.

Northrop is also the prime contractor for the B-21 bomber as well as the maker of the Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle.

Orbital is a subcontractor for composite structures on the B-21, and Callan of Capital Alpha Partners said the deal might spark concerns at the Pentagon because of vertical integration within that program.

So far this year Orbital's stock has increased 25 percent as investors have eyed an increase in U.S. defense spending.

Earlier in September, aerospace supplier United Technologies Corp agreed to buy avionics and interiors maker Rockwell Collins Inc in $30 billion deal that would be the largest in the industry's history.
Samsung is finally allowing users to disable the Bixby button on Galaxy 8 and Note 8 phones.

Many users haven't felt the need for the dedicated button or have been annoyed by how often its placement caused them to accidentally launch the assistant - but until now Samsung wouldn't allow users to turn it off.

The latest Bixby update, however, includes a new toggle that lets you choose to disable the launching of Bixby Home from the button.

Scroll down for video

Samsung is finally allowing users to disable the Bixby button on Galaxy 8 and Note 8 phones. To do so, install the update, open the new toggle or Bixby setting, and select 'don't open anything'

To disable the button, install the update, open the new toggle or Bixby setting, and select 'don't open anything.'

Users, however, cannot disable Bixby itself - this will only disable the command from the dedicated Bixby button, and users can still swipe left or use voice commands to summon the assistant.

And while the Bixby button can be disabled, it can't be assigned to do anything else.

Due to users' frustration with the button, third-party developers have created apps that allowed users to remap the button to launch different apps instead, but Samsung blocked these.

It appears that the option is rolling out slowly to Galaxy 8 and Note 8 users, as the option to turn it off has been appearing on only some of the Bixby-enabled devices so far.

Users, however, cannot disable Bixby itself - this will only disable the command from the dedicated Bixby button, and users can still swipe left or use voice commands to summon the assistant. And while the Bixby button can be disabled, it can't be assigned to do anything else

BIXBY'S KEY FEATURES - Operates through 'Quick Commands,' which allows users to create custom voice commands - Uses deep learning technology to understand the way you speak, ask questions and make requests - Improves over time to recognise your personal preferences and style of speaking - Acts as an intelligent interface, and can be integrated into other apps - When an application becomes Bixby-enabled, the assistant will support almost every task that the application is capable of performing using voice, touch or text Advertisement

Reception so far has been mixed, with some users telling Sammobile - which spotted the update - they are happy with it and others declaring the update useless.

'Best update ever! So happy of no mistake bixby launch,' wrote one users.

'This is great. Really happy with this option, I hate Bixby button,' wrote another.

On the other side, one user wrote: 'Unless this update removes the bixby button I dont care about it.'

Several said they attempted to disable the button but that it continued launching Bixby as it did before.

After delays caused Bixby to only be available in the US and South Korea for the first few months after launch, Samsung finally launched its voice assistant in more than 200 countries worldwide last month.

The launch will come as a huge relief to Samsung, which suffered major delays as Bixby 'struggled to understand English.'

Bixby is a smart assistant, similar to Apple's Siri and Microsoft's Cortana.

After delays caused Bixby to only be available in the US and South Korea for the first few months after launch, Samsung finally launched its voice assistant in more than 200 countries worldwide last month

It operates through 'Quick Commands'  a feature that allows users to create custom voice commands.

For example, users can use the command 'good night' as a shortcut for 'Turn on Do-not-disturb mode, set an alarm for 6:00am and turn on blue light filter.'

The voice assistant can also use deep learning technology to understand the way you speak, ask questions, and make requests.

For example, if you take a photo and then tell Bixby to 'send the picture just taken to Mum,' the assistant will know which photo you are referring to and will text it to your mum.

SAMSUNG GALAXY S8 SPECS Samsung is hoping that it's new high spec flagship can take on the iPhone Processor: Exynos Octa core (2.3GHz quad + 1.7GHz quad) 10nm SoC Screen: 5.8-inch Quad HD+, 2960 x 1440p, 570ppi Wireless: LTE Cat 16 Primary Camera: 12-megapixel, f/1.7, OIS Front-facing Camera: 8-megapixel, f/1.7, AF Memory: 4GB LPDDR4 RAM Storage: 64GB, microSD expansion to 256GB Battery: 3,000mAh Dimensions: 148.9 x 68.1 x 8.0mm, 155g OS: Android 7.0 Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB Type-C, NFC, GPS, Galileo, Glonass Advertisement

Bixby also improves over time to recognise your personal preferences and style of speaking.

Rather than operating as a standalone app, Bixby acts as an intelligent interface and can be integrated into other apps.

When an application becomes Bixby-enabled, the assistant will support almost every task that the application is capable of performing using voice, touch, or text.

Bixby is a smart assistant that operates through 'Quick Commands'  a feature that allows users to create custom voice commands

Bixby was initially available in South Korea with the launch of the Galaxy S8 in May, and was then launched in the US on 19 July, before launching worldwide last month.

Injong Rhee, Executive Vice President and Head of R&D, Software and Services of the Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics, said: 'Now millions of customers worldwide have access to a new and intelligent way of interacting with their phone.'

'The expansion of Bixby's voice capabilities is an initial step in the continued rollout of Bixby functionality.'

'In the future, Bixby will have the learning power to offer more intelligent and personalized interactions and seamless connections across more devices.'

Samsung has been plagued with issues with the smart assistant.
It's probably the most unpleasant part of aviation.

But turbulence may become a thing of the past thanks to new technology that promises to predict the type that lurks unseen - and steer planes around it.

That's according to Boeing, which will be trialing remote-sensing technology that can detect clear-air turbulence early next year.

New era in flying? Boeing will be trialing remote-sensing technology that can detect clear-air turbulence early next year

The concept, which they hope could be rolled-out across all commercial carriers, comes from a seven-tear collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and has huge potential for travellers.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the number of turbulence-related injuries doubled in 2016, from 21 to 44.

But this could be slashed by lidar (light detection and ranging technology), which will work by emitting pulses of laser light from the plane's nose, scattering small dust and other particulates.

Observing the reflected light in segments, the pulse provides measurement of the wind speed at increments all along the direction of the laser.

It offers the potential to accurately measure winds as much as 17.5 kilometers (10.8 miles) in front of airplanes and provide pilots with sufficient time to take appropriate action to avoid wind shear and clear air turbulence, which often occurs at high altitude and does not have any visual cues, such as clouds.

Great minds: The concept comes from a seven-year collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and has huge potential for travellers

HOW DO PILOTS DEAL WITH TURBULENCE? A serving airline captain reveals four methods for dealing with turbulence: 1. Grin and bear it - the aircraft is more than capable of withstanding the loads associated with turbulence (although severe turbulence can be quite uncomfortable and best avoided for passenger comfort). 2. Try flying higher (if aircraft performance allows it) or lower (although this burns more fuel and might make things worse). 3. Fly at the aircraft turbulence penetration speed - generally a little slower than normal cruising speed 4. Turn to avoid the area of turbulence if its localised (such as near a thunderstorm). Advertisement

These anomalies will trigger audio cues, which will be broadcast to pilots and cabin crew. Experts believe it would provide at least a 60-second heads-up.

However, a Dreamliner pilot told MailOnline that the technology wasn't much more than a toy.

He said: 'Sixty seconds notice? And then what do the pilots do?

'They can't climb or descend as staying level is what gives them separation from other aircraft. And "going round it" with a turn? Most turbulence areas are many miles long.

'It sounds like an interesting toy, but the end of turbulence... no way!'

The lidar research will be conducted in 2018 as part of a collaboration with FedEx Express.

Over a six-week period more than 30 technologies, including lidar, will be tested on board a new FedEx-owned 777 freighter.

'We're eager to continue working with JAXA so that we can both learn more about lidar technology,' said Boeing's Doug Christensen, who's overseeing the collaboration.

When turbulence is at its most severe, it can stall an aircraft, by pushing it below its minimum speed, despite the engines being on full power.

When this is about to happen pilots receive an attention-getter called a 'stick shaker'.

Speaking anonymously to MailOnline, an airline captain recounted an occasion when he received this warning while flying over north Africa in a 747.

He explained that he came out of the stall by pointing the plane downwards.

'You push the nose forward, keep the power on, let the aircraft accelerate. Aircraft like flying, they don't like falling out of the sky, and you've got to try pretty hard to make them do that,' he said.

'So, just push the nose forward, accelerate the aeroplane, and we return to our assigned altitude.

'For two to three minutes it was exciting, it was proper flying, the autopilot wasn't coping very well with it, so you take the autopilot out with a little push button on the control column and you go back to basic flying skills that keep the aircraft safe. That's why we're there.

'That's why there's always two of us on the flight deck and why we take the business of flight safety very seriously. And part of that is putting the seatbelt signs on.'

He added: ' Because we have a lot of people now who fly an awful lot, sometimes they're a bit casual about whether they should return to their seats and put their seatbelts on, and people think it's a bit of a drag, but there will be that one time in a hundred when it suddenly becomes really important to be in your seat.'
Wonder Woman, Atomic Blonde, Ghost in the Shell. Its clear that girl power is alive and well in Hollywood.

But when was the last time tinsel town produced a delicious and irresistibly devilish female villain?

For those of you craving a bad girl gone really, really bad, feast your eyes on Poppy, Julianne Moores twisted and unapologetic, megalomaniac in Kingsman: The Golden Circle.

Scroll down for video

Julianne Moore is the megalomaniac villain Poppy in the soon-to-be-released film Kingsman: The Golden Circle

The hotly anticipated sequel to the enormously popular and delightfully British 2014 hit Kingsman: The Secret Service, The Golden Circle follows super-suave-spies Colin Firth and Taron Egerton as they embark on a mission to save the world.

They, along with Channing Tatum and Jeff Bridges, safely occupy the good guy zone, while Halle Berry brings the expected dose of sultry screen siren.

But Moores Poppy, with all her flaming, fiery evil, is what makes the flick most exciting.

Don't be fooled by Poppy's cherry pie smiles and lip gloss - she is downright brutal and ruthless when it comes to taking out anyone who stands in the way of her plans

Director Matthew Vaughn describes the character as 'Martha Stewart on crack'. Who wouldnt want to see that?

Without spoiling her toe-curling introduction in the film, heres what you need to know about your new favourite reprobate.

She's a conniving drug baron

Poppy is a scarlet-wearing drug baron on a one-woman mission to legalise drugs across the world and cement her place as a legitimate, narcotics-pushing businesswoman.

She commands her army of henchmen from a diner in the heart of a secret jungle, where she has attempted to revive 1950s America with bowling alleys and some very questionably sourced hamburgers.

Her cherry pie smiles may seem wholesome, but she is anything but.

An American drug-baron with a penchant for the past, she controls her army of henchmen from a secret jungle where she has recreated 1950s America complete with bowling alleys and a namesake diner

Don't be deceived by her pristine looks

She reeks of badness and madness. Not girly, flirtatious naughtiness - were talking cackling, shrill, sweat-inducing wickedness which knows no bounds or reason if her empire or ambition is challenged - and she is unsettlingly pristine, matching her raspberry red blouses and nails to her glowing hair.

Cross her and you'll end up as mince meat

But dont be fooled by her appearance and high-pitched, upbeat demeanour. She hasn't a shred of mercy for anyone who dares threaten her prowess.

Go too far and its straight to the stainless steel mincing machine in the kitchen of her burger joint HQ. Hows that for brutal? But whats most enjoyable about her deviltry is its special brand of mischief that only comes with being female.

It's hard to imagine a male villain giggling his way to world domination one carnivorous murder at a time, but Poppy pulls it off with style and flare

With Gal Galdot's Wonder Woman and Charlize Theron's Atomic Blonde, there's no shortage of Hollywood heroines leaving Poppy to stand alone as the ultimate female villain

Taron Egerton returns as Gary 'Eggsy' Urwin and Colin Firth is resurrected as Harry Hart

Halle Berry joins the cast as the pixie-haired Ginger, an agent of Statesman, the fictional American secret service equivalent to the Brits' Kingsman

Channing Tatum and Jeff Bridges are two welcome additions to the film

She's gorgeous

As The Golden Circle hits cinemas, teenage girls will fawn over heartthrob Eggsy and die-hard fans will celebrate the fact that Colin Firths character is still very much alive (yes, really). But, take a moment to bask in Poppys scarily satisfying badness.

Grinning, gorgeous and gruesome to her core, she is a breath of fresh air in a world of tough but fundamentally good Hollywood heroines.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle will hit cinemas on September 21.
It was only last year that she went under the knife to increase her famous assets back to a 32GG cup.

But Katie Price has now revealed her plans to undergo another breast reduction, marking her ninth boob job since 1998.

Speaking to The Sun, the mother-of-five, 39, admitted she was keen to remove her implants as her chest felt 'so big' at the moment - but was quick to blast anyone who claimed she was addicted to surgery.

Scroll down for video

Up and down: Katie Price has revealed her plans to undergo another breast reduction, marking her ninth boob job since 1998 (pictured with her 32GG implants in June)

After shocking fans by returning to her natural 32B cup size in 2015, Katie shot back up to a whopping 32GG last year, following an operation in Belgium.

However, the Loose Women host has now revealed her plans to undergo another reduction, as she is not comfortable with the current size of her assets.

She told the paper: 'They are so big at the moment, I might go smaller.

Changes: Admitting she is not comfortable with the current size of her assets, Katie said this week: 'They are so big at the moment, I might go smaller' (pictured in September)

'They always say be sensible but you get used to them being that big and then they shrink.'

However she was quick to hit out at any haters who criticise her for going under the knife so much - with the next potential reduction marking her ninth boob job in two decades.

Standing by her decision, she added: 'If people want to say I'm addicted they can say it but I'm not.'

Over: The news comes amid a difficult time for Katie - who announced her split from third husband Kieran Hayler this month (pictured in February)

Heartbreaking: A week later she then confirmed her mother Amy (L) had been diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis - which has an average life expectancy of three to five years

The news comes amid a difficult time for Katie - who has not only announced her split from Kieran Hayler this month, but also her mother Amy's terminal diagnosis.

Katie confirmed her stripper husband had embarked on an affair with the family nanny in August, and has openly showed her desire to move on - taking to social media to announce she was using dating apps.

Only making matters worse however, Katie then emotionally revealed her mother Amy was terminally ill only a week later.

Au rev-bra? It was reported earlier this year that the TV personality was keen to shrink her bust in order to achieve a more 'demure' look (pictured right before breast implant surgery in 1995)

The Page 3 beauty dropped the bombshell Amy was diagnosed with progressive lung illness Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis - which has an average life expectancy of three to five years.

Despite her recent troubles however, rumours surfaced earlier this year that Katie planned to shrink her bust to a more 'demure' size.

The Sunday People reported in May that Katie was keen to have the reduction before her 40th birthday in May next year.

Getting it together: The Sunday People reported that Katie was keen to have the reduction before her 40th birthday in May next year

A source told the newspaper : 'She thinks her current chest size is too big and makes her look fat. The next stage will be smaller.'

Katie first went under the knife in 1998 aged just 20, when she went from a B cup to a slightly fuller C cup.

However, it wasn't long before the glamour model decided that bigger was better - and in 1999 she went up to a D cup, before a further op took her to a ample F size.

Blossoming figure: Katie first went under the knife in 1998 aged just 20 to go from a B cup to a slightly fuller C cup (seen before surgery, left, in 1995, and right after two operations in 1999)

Party girl: But it wasn't long before the glamour model decided that bigger was better and in 1999 she went up to a D cup before a further op took her to a ample F size (pictured 2003)

The star remained content with her bust size for seven years before opting for another operation to lift her famous assets after the birth of her three children.

This stint under the knife took her up to a huge G cup, before she also had a nose job during the same period of time.

After expressing a previously unheard of interest in having smaller breasts, Katie then shrunk down to a 32C in 2008.

However after the breakdown of her marriages to Peter Andre and Alex Reid, the former I'm A Celebrity star stepped out once again with eye-popping F-cup breasts.

Catching Pete's eye: Katie won a whole new legion of followers when she unveiled her F cup bust in I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! in 2004

Up and up: The star put on an incredibly busty display in a black lace bra in Australia in 2004

Yet, back in 2015, she shocked fans by announcing she was going all natural for the first time in almost two decades and had her famous implants removed.

She reduced her chest size from a 32G to her natural 32B, and looked worlds away from her usual self when she displayed her new assets on the London Fashion For Relief catwalk that year.

However, it seemed Katie couldn't stay away from the implants as she went for her biggest yet when she travelled to Belgium a year later, and increased them back up to a 32GG.

New woman: Yet, back in 2015, she shocked fans by announcing she was going all natural, and debuted her 32B chest on the London Fashion For Relief catwalk (above)

Katie's last boob job, which marked her eighth operation on her chest, was in July last year - but she later admitted her choice to go up again had been impulsive.

She said on Loose Women: 'Let me explain, I was all healed and ready for the final procedure on my boobs. The surgeon said to me: 'What size do you want? Same implants, a little bit bigger or bigger?'

'And me being impulsive, I just went: 'Oh go bigger then!' Maybe it's the Gemini in me. Normal size they put in is like a 275(cc) or a 375(cc). Mine are a little bit bigger than that, they're 1050. But my body is used to it, I have been bigger.'

On her previous smaller chest, she continued: 'I got used to having smaller boobs and all my clothes were all size 10 or 12 and now I'm a 16 again. I don't wear a bra, because they're so pert!'
When Yvonne Strahovski hit the 69th annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday evening, she had some news to break.

The 35-year-old Australian actress revealed she had wed longtime boyfriend Tim Loden over the summer.

The blonde beauty, who stars with Elisabeth Moss on The Handmaid's Tale, had her new husband with her at the splashy event inside the Microsoft Theater.

Scroll down for video and nominations...

Off the market! When Yvonne Strahovski hit the 69th annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday evening, she had some news to break

Takne: The 35-year-old Australian actress revealed she had wed longtime boyfriend Tim Loden over the summer

We're married! After revealing her happy news, Tim joined Yvonne on the screen

'Yes I got married!' announced the siren. 'It was over the summer.' Indeed she was flashing a wedding band.

She added that the nuptials were in Paso Robles, California and their biggest memory was how hot it was.

'There was a heatwave!' she said.

Tim is an actor who met Yvonne when she was a star on the TV series Chuck.

Lovely lady: On Sunday she looked stunning in her red satin gown that had a neckline so plunging it reached her tummy

Good look: The siren accessorized with a gold necklace and diamond earrings

Happy couple: Tim is an actor who met Yvonne when she was a star on the TV series Chuck

He played a Polish rocker in a 2010 episode.

He has also appeared on Bloodlines and Vantastic. The star is in post production on Morir de Amor.

There had been talk that Yvonne and Tom had split in 2012, but it seems as if they got back together soon after.

This is the first time the two have talked about their wedding.

Many years ago: Yvonne and Tim together in Las Vegas in 2011

Yvonne has also been on Dexter and 24: Live Another Day. She has been on The Handmaid's Take since the beginning.

On Sunday she looked stunning in her red satin gown that had a neckline so plunging it reached her tummy.

The number had a slit up the front that revealed gold and black heels.

Tim wore a suit and sported on-trend scruffy hair.

Yvonne was last seen at the BBC BAFTA tea on Saturday afternoon. The beauty wore a blue dress and showed off her diamond wedding ring.

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

A vision in blue: Yvonne was last seen at the BBC BAFTA tea on Saturday afternoon

The rings say it all! The beauty wore a blue dress and showed off her diamond wedding rings
She inspired others by sharing her honest weight loss journey on the hit TV show This Time Next Year.

And now Cassandra Bright has spoken up about the depths of her depression before shedding the weight, revealing the extra kilograms left her 'wanting to die'.

It comes as the inspirational 36-year-old told TV Week she has lost a further 18kg since appearing on the show, taking her total weight loss to a staggering 103kg.

'I wanted to die': This Time Next Year's Cassandra Bright reveals depths of depression over weight as she now inspires others with her 103kg loss

Cassandra, a care worker from Geelong, Victoria, told the magazine she had been very depressed prior to making her weight loss pledge on This Time Next Year.

'I wanted to die,' she revealed. 'Every daily task was a chore. There was no joy in my life.'

Cassandra said her depression had become so bad she would have to stop herself from 'walking onto the train line' everyday.

Struggle: Cassandra said her depression had become so bad she would have to stop herself from 'walking onto the train line' everyday

Lost even more: Cassandra told TV Week she had lost another 18kg since appearing on the show

But since going on the show and undergoing gastric bypass surgery, which reduced her stomach by 80 per cent, Cassandra has a new lease on life.

Revealing she had shed 80kg of her 180kg frame on This Time Next Year, Cassandra told TV Week she had lost another 18kg since appearing on the show.

'In total, I've lost 103kg - and I'm still losing,' she said.

But best of all, Cassandra said her anxiety had lessened and she was now out making friends after previously giving up on meeting people.

Heartbreaking: The 36-year-old from Geelong, Victoria, had Karl close to tears as she recounted her decades-long struggle with her weight

Saving her live: Cassandra had resolved to undergo gastric bypass surgery, cutting away 80 per cent of her stomach, leaving her with just 50ml in stomach space

On This Time Next Year earlier this month, Cassandra pledged to lose half of her 180kg weight in 12 months.

Cassandra resolved to undergo gastric bypass surgery leaving her with just 50ml in stomach space.

While admitting the surgery was risky, Cassandra had no choice but to take the drastic step.

Amazing: Cassandra came out on stage proudly showing off her weight loss

Health overhaul: The 35-year-old had succeeded in saving her life by losing almost half her weight

'I'm 35. I'm getting old, Karl. And if it's not now, it's never and I'll die young,' she revealed. 'I will die.'

Returning to the stage after her 12 month weight loss journey, host Karl Stefanovic's jaw dropped to the floor as Cassandra made her way through the door.

Cassandra revealed she had lost 80 kilograms, now weighing just 100 kilograms and receiving a new lease on life.

'I don't know before how I got up the staircase at home. This pledge definitely saved my life. Daily activities are no longer a chore. Movement is no longer, you know, an effort,' Cassandra explained.

If you or anyone you know needs support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
Posing with her hands on his shoulder, they look like brother and sister enjoying a night out together.

But despite Sofia Vergara's deceptively youthful looks, her handsome chaperone to the Emmys on Sunday night was her adult son.

Dapper 26-year-old Manolo Gonzalez Vergara is the only child of 45-year-old Modern Family star Sofia.

Scroll down for video

Yes, she's his mom! Sofia Vergara and son Manolo looks like siblings as they pose on the Emmys red carpet

Manolo was born in Sofia's native Colombia during her brief marriage to her high-school sweetheart, Joe.

He looked on with pride as his mother showed off her breathtaking figure in a clinging strapless white gown with a sweetheart neckline.

The dress showed off all of the buxom bombshell's famous curves, and also featured a fishtail hemline.

Her boy: Manolo Gonzalez Vergara looked on with pride as his mother showed off her breathtaking figure in a clinging strapless white gown with a sweetheart neckline

Only child: Manolo was born in Sofia's native Colombia during her brief marriage to her high-school sweetheart, Joe

Loving life: Manolo looked like he was having a blast as he posed on the red carpet

Her stunning gown also dipped into a V at the back.

Sofia's long brown hair was pulled back in a high ponytail, with her fringe left loose, framing her face, and she wore large statement earrings by Lorraine Schwartz, as well as a black diamond ring.

Posing confidently with her hands on her hips, Sofia twirled around in front of the cameras, showing off every angle.

White hot: Stepping onto the red carpet at Sunday night's Emmy Awards in LA, Sofia Vergara looked every inch the Hollywood icon

Bringing sexy back... Her stunning gown also dipped into a V at the back, showing off her famous curves

Flaunting it: The 45-year-old actress looked breathtaking in a figure-hugging strapless white gown with a sweetheart neckline

Hands on hips: Sofia drew attention to her enviable curves in the fishtail number

'It's amazing,' Manolo told Entertainment Tonight of being at the Emmys, joking, 'She invites me when Joe's busy, so...'

Sofia quickly agree. '[Joe's] shooting a movie in New York. So I'm like, "Manolo, you wanna come?"'

Hours out from the awards show, the show's cast, including Sofia, took to Instagram to share photos as they prepared for the star-studded event.

Posting a short video with a group of other dressed up guests, the Colombian beauty and her entourage were already in full on party mode, despite appearing to have still been at the star's hotel.

'Ready for the partyyy #emmys2017,' she captioned the video.

Gorgeous: The star was every inch the Hollywood pin-up in her glamorous gown

Accessorising in style: Sofia completed her look with her best accessory - a smile

Finer details: Sofia's long brown hair was pulled back in a high ponytail, with her fringe left loose, framing her face, and she wore jeweled Lorraine Schwartz earrings

Having a blast... The Colombian beauty appeared to have been having a great time, smiling and laughing as she posed for photos ahead of the awards show

Taking a spin... Posing confidently with her hands on her hips, Sofia twirled around in front of the cameras, showing off every angle

Dazzling: The stunner sporting a dramatic pair of diamond shaped earrings

Sofia's co-star in the hit series, Sarah Hyland also shared a photo of herself before the awards show.

The 26-year-old actress can be seen sitting on a stool in her kitchen, as a hairdresser and manicurist get to work.

Posing like a true movie star, the petite actress is clad in just a maroon satin robe, one leg bent and a hand elegantly raised to the side of her face.

Keeping the party going: Sofia then attended the Post Emmy Awards Reception at The Plaza

Party people: Taking to Instagram, Sofia posted a short video with a group of other dressed up guests

Glam squad: Sarah Hyland also shared a photo of herself before the awards show. The 26-year-old can be seen sitting on a stool in her kitchen, as a hairdresser and manicurist get to work

'Getting #emmys ready with my favorite people @allanface & @ryanrichman ,' she captioned it.

Julie Bowen also took to Instagram to share a photo of herself en route to the awards show in the back of a car, beside a female friend.

The smiling star appears to be wearing a black dress, her blonde hair pulled back in a chic chignon, and jeweled earrings hanging from her ears.

On their way... Julie Bowen also took to Instagram to share a photo of herself en route to the awards show in the back of a car, beside a female friend

Hamming it up: Not to be outdone by the ladies, Eric Stonestreet shared a comical photo of himself and his date posing like they were going to prom

'@curlefreye thanks for being the best date ever! #emmys2017,' the 47-year-old captioned it.

Not to be outdone by the ladies, Eric Stonestreet shared a comical photo of himself and his date posing like they were going to prom.

Dressed in a black suit, the 46-year-old actor can be seen gazing off into the distance, while wrapping his arms around her waist.

'Doing the #emmys right,' he captioned it.

Well-suited: Jesse Tyler Ferguson also took to Instagram to share a photo of himself standing alongside his husband of four years, Justin Mikita

Jesse Tyler Ferguson also took to Instagram to share a photo of himself standing alongside his husband of four years, Justin Mikita, 32.

The 41-year-old looked handsome in a green and black tuxedo.

The long-running series has been nominated for two awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Supporting Actor for Ty Burrell.
Stranger Things star Millie Bobbie Brown brought the wow factor the Emmys red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The 13-year-old donned a strapless white gown with full tulle skirt that styled her like a ballerina.

The actress, who plays the mysterious Eleven, in the Netflix drama series added a black and white scarf around her waist and wore her short hair slicked back against her head for a sophisticated look.

Scroll down for video

Star: Stranger Things star Millie Bobbie Brown donned a strapless white gown with full tulle skirt that styled her like a ballerina for the Emmys red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday

The British youngster wore pointed toe embellished shoes and rocked black polish on her finger nails.

Millie is nominated for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series and if she wins Sunday night, she will become the youngest person ever to win a primetime Emmy.

The show is nominated for seven awards to be handed out during the telecast.

Looking pretty: The actress added a black and white scarf around her waist and wore her short hair slicked back against her head for a sophisticated look

Fashionable: The British youngster, who is nominated for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series, wore pointed toe embellished shoes and rocked black polish on her finger nails

Millie's co-stars -Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin - also hit the red carpet looking sartorially elegant.

Caleb, 15, who plays Lucas, chose to stand out from the crowd in a fabulous brocade and satin jacket that popped with hues of purple.

He added a white dress shirt and black bow tie along with skinny black pants and slip on black shoes.

Gaten, 15, who plays Dustin, looked sharp in a three piece dark blue suit.

He opted for a burgundy tie with white shirt and black shoes.

Dapper: Millie's co-stars -Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin - also hit the red carpet looking sartorially elegant

Suave: Caleb, 15, who plays Lucas, chose to stand out from the crowd in a fabulous brocade and satin jacket that popped with hues of purple and added a dress shirt and black bow tie

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access . It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Stylish: Gaten, 15, who plays Dustin, looked sharp in a three piece dark blue suit. He opted for a burgundy tie with white shirt and black shoes

Finn, 14, who plays Mike, opted for a tuxedo with shirt and bow tie and shiny black dress shoes.

Noah, 12, who plays Will, added a nautical theme to his ensemble, rocking a crushed blue velvet jacket with gold piping on the cuffs and decorative brocade on the lapels.

He added a black bow tie, black pants and black slip on loafers.

Big night: Finn, 14, who plays Mike, opted for a tuxedo with shirt and bow tie and shiny black dress shoes

Striking: Noah, 12, who plays Will, added a nautical theme to his ensemble, rocking a crushed blue velvet jacket with gold piping on the cuffs and decorative brocade on the lapels

On hand, too, were supporting cast Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton and Joe Keery.

The trio made a showstopping turn on the red carpet as Natalia posed with Charlie and Joe either side.

The actress, 20, who plays Nancy, showed off her slim frame in a green halter neck gown.

The sleeveless satin number had a full skirt that fell to the floor and she wore her bobbed hair sleekly styled.

Charlie, 23, who plays Jonathan on the show, and Joe, 25, who pays Steve, rocked tuxedos.

Beautiful trio: Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton and Joe Keery made a showstopping turn on the red carpet

On trend: Natalia, 20, who plays Nancy, showed off her slim frame in a green halter neck gown

Perfect: The sleeveless satin number had a full skirt that fell to the floor and she wore her bobbed hair sleekly styled

Evening dress: Charlie, 23, who plays Jonathan on the show, and Joe, 25, who pays Steve, rocked tuxedos.

Co-stars David Harbour and Millie Bobby Brown are each nominated in the outstanding supporting actor categories .

Shannon Purser is also nominated for outstanding guest actress in a drama series for her turn as Barb.

Stranger Things is nominated for outstanding drama series and also for several technical Emmys including outstanding writing and directing for creators Matt and Ross Duffer.

Awards glory: Stranger Things is nominated for outstanding drama series and also for several technical Emmys including outstanding writing and directing for creators Matt and Ross Duffer
She announced in August that she was pregnant with her second child.

And Rose Byrne showed off her growing baby bump as she took a walk through New York City with friends on Sunday afternoon.

The 38-year-old Australian actress looked hippie-chic in a floral summer dress and hat as she strolled through the city with boyfriend Bobby Cannavale and their 19-month-old son Rocco.

Scroll down for video

A walk in the park! Rose Byrne showed off her growing baby bump as she took a walk through New York City with friends on Sunday afternoon

The Bridesmaids star covered up in a knee-length navy blue floral frock which featured hot pink horizontal stripes.

Her flowy multi-patterned dress had a drawstring neckline and dainty caplet sleeves covering her shoulders.

Byrne protected her porcelain skin by wearing a creamy fedora with a thick black strap around the band and she tied her long fiery red hair into a loose ponytail worn to one side.

Mama mia! The 38-year-old Neighbors actress looked hippie-chic in a floral summer dress and hat as she strolled through the city with boyfriend Bobby Cannavale and their 19-month-old son Rocco

Summer in the city: Rose covered up in a knee-length navy blue floral frock which featured hot pink horizontal stripes

The Internship starlet wore a pair of strappy black sandals and carried a large green water bottle as she walked through the park with a friend.

Bobby, 47, sported a navy shirt, grey shorts and a navy New York Yankees hat on his head as he pushed their son in a stroller ahead of the ladies.

Little Rocco's curly blonde hair was front and center as he sported a little grey tank top and red shorts for his afternoon adventure.

Rose and longtime beau Bobby are counting down the days until baby number two arrives after having confirmed the pregnancy news to Jones magazine last month.

Baby's day out! Little Rocco's curly blonde hair was front and center as he sported a little grey tank top and red shorts for his afternoon adventure

'I'm a little tired but feeling good,' she said during a shoot with her brother George.

'Everyone was very sweet on set today, and you always get a little bit more attention when you're pregnant, which is fabulous.'

Rose and actor Bobby began dating in 2012 and welcomed their first child four years later.

Bobby was previously married to American actress Jenny Lumet and they share a 22-year-old son Jake.
It was an Instagram comment that appeared to seal their romance in the public eye for a second time.

And Brooklyn Beckham and Chloe Moretz were still playing out their love story on social media on Sunday night, as he complained that he was 'missing [his] girl'.

Underneath a throwback shot of one of their favourite pastimes, the actress then commented with a love heart and a wilting flower.

Scroll down for video

Romantic: Brooklyn Beckham shared a picture on Instagram on Sunday night in which he appears to cuddle girlfriend Chloe Moretz's leg while they watch old fashioned western films together on a night in

'Missing my girl': He captioned the shot to say that these were his favourite nights but complained that he was missing his girl

Hinting: Underneath, actress Chloe commented with a love heart and a wilting rose to indicate that it was her who he was directing the cryptic message at

His cryptic message read: 'These nights are my favourite [love heart]. Missing my girl.'

Chloe very much confirmed that she was the girl he was pining for, when she left her comment beneath it.

The black and white post, which was liked by Joanne and David Beckham, appears to show Brooklyn stroking Chloe's leg while they watch old fashion western films in front of the TV.

Now that the British teenager has moved to New York City to study, he's been able to meet up with the beauty regularly.

back on: Chloe and Brooklyn (here in May 2016) previously dated in 2014 and were on and off while they shared a transatlantic relationship

They were first seen together again at the end of August, following claims that they had been 'getting very close'.

Then, two weeks ago, Chloe left a love heart beneath a picture of Brooklyn, in which there appeared to be a two-person shadow on the wall behind him.

Fans were furiously speculating that it was Chloe's shadow in the image, despite his brief fling with model Madison Beer, 18, in July.

They had previously dated in 2014, before splitting the following year and going on to reunite in the summer of 2016, with Chloe confirming: 'We're in a relationship. It's fine. It's no biggie.'

Trying again: The duo will no doubt find things easier now that Brooklyn lives in NYC

Months later she and Brooklyn had split again, but the Carrie star has fuelled rumours of a romantic reunion once more.

Brooklyn recently admitted that he has a few 'fangirls' at Parsons School of Design in NYC, where is studying photography.

He admitted in a new interview withThe Cut that he sometimes has to ask his more enthusiastic fans to calm down when they run into him.

Man of the moment: Brooklyn has been complaining that he is getting plenty of attention from girls while he studies at Parsons School of Design

He said: 'I like people from school but there are a few fangirls in the school  Sometimes, I have to be like, Im going to be with you for like, four years, so chill.

'I mean, its gotten better. They understand and they respect it, but its just at the beginning, its such a shock to them, so its fine.'

And Brooklyn, who has spent his entire life mixing in celebrity circles and is often seen at star-studded events, said he's not interested in hanging out with famous people, saying 'I dont hang out with all those famous, annoying people.'

Glamour shot: By now, Brooklyn is used to the extra attention on Instagram (seen here with mum Victoria Beckham)
They were all unsuccessful candidates vying for Matty J's heart on The Bachelor.

But these unlucky in love reality stars don't seem to be holding any grudges against the star, as they've all appeared to have moved on since their departure from the mansion.

From finding love with former Bachelor contestants, an engagement and a rumoured lesbian relationship, Daily Mail Australia takes a look at where Matty J's girls are now.

BACHELORETTE: LEAH COSTA, 24

NEW PARTNER: DAVID WITKO, 34

Where are they now? From finding love with former contestants, an engagement and a rumoured lesbian relationship, we take a look at where Matty J's girls are now

She was labelled as this season's villain and was given the boot after she was called out for not having the other girl's best interests at heart.

But leaving the mansion has seen to be the best thing for Leah Costa who has since found love with former Bachelorette star, David Witko.

Taking to Instagram earlier in the week, the former topless waiter said she'd found her prince.

'I found my own honest loyal and funny Bachelor,' she captioned.

In another recent Boomerang video, David is seen getting down on one knee and handing his girl a rose.

'@david_witko little did I know it at the time you gave me this rose, that I would soon realise I am never going to let it go,' she said hashtagging #boyfriend and #luckiestgirlalive

Her new Bachelor: Taking to Instagram earlier in the week, former topless waiter Leah Costa said she'd found her prince, David Witko

BACHELORETTE: AKOULINA KTOIANTS, 29

NEW PARTNER: ROBERT ROLLINGTON

That was fast! After just three weeks following her eviction from show, Akoulina took to Instagram to reveal she was engaged to her real estate agent beau

She was the memorable rhythmic gymnast who tried to twirl her way into Matty J's life.

And after just three weeks following her eviction from show, Akoulina took to Instagram to reveal she was engaged to her real estate agent beau Robert Rollington.

'He asked...I said yes!' she captioned the post with a ring emoji.

Speaking to OK! magazine after her announcement, she revealed she'd already been married once before.

'I have been married,' she told the publication.

'He didn't want to commit to me....It was unstable and I pulled the plug she revealed.'

Happily ever after: 'He asked...I said yes!' she captioned the post with a ring emoji

BACHELORETTE: SIAN KELLY, 24

RUMOURED PARTNER: GABRIELLE CRILLY

New love? After her emotional departure, Sian Kelly has appeared to move on with female friend Gabrielle Crilly

She infamously staged a dramatic exit and on-camera meltdown after feeling as though Matty hadn't noticed her.

And after her emotional departure, Sian Kelly has appeared to move on with female friend Gabrielle Crilly.

Through a slew of posts on both their Instagram accounts, Sian seems to be infatuated by her alleged lady love.

With captions such as: 'She had me at "we'll make it look like an accident"', 'Introducing to you, Mrs and mrs flog', and 'lover lover', it is assumed the pair are in a relationship.

Although neither have publically confirmed their relationship status it seems as though their families are in the loop with relatives sending their love and asking if they'll be joining this week's family dinner.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Sian for a comment.

Bye Matty! Through a slew of posts on both their Instagram accounts, Sian seems to be infatuated by her alleged lady love

Real love? With captions such as: 'She had me at "we'll make it look like an accident"', 'Introducing to you, Mrs and mrs flog', and 'lover lover', it is assumed the pair are in a relationship

BACHELORETTE: STEPHANIE BOULTON, 23

RUMOURED PARTNER: BRETT MOORE, 27 - NEW BACHELORETTE CONTESTANT

Didn't win Sophie over? She was the youngest contestant and safety administrator and he's set to make his Bachelorette debut this week

She was the youngest contestant and safety administrator and he's set to make his Bachelorette debut this week.

And it seems like Stephanie, Brett also doesn't make it to the final rose ceremony with Woman's Day reporting the stud has already moved on.

According to a source of the publication, the Perth pair were spotted together on a local beach.

'I saw them hanging out together on a beach in Perth, and they've been posting videos of Steph lying on Brett's bed!' they reported.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Stephanie for comment.

Perth based loves: 'I saw them hanging out together on a beach in Perth, and they've been posting videos of Steph lying on Brett's bed!'

BACHELORETTE: SHARLENE MIK, 26

NEW PARTNER: MR 'BLOKEY'

Who's the guy? Currently happily dating an the unidentified male from Darwin, Sharlene has described him as 'blokey'

She was the wedding planner hoping to take home the final rose.

But although not with Matty, love was in the air all along for the Sharlene.

Currently happily dating an the unidentified male from Darwin, Sharlene has described him as 'blokey'.

She first shared a selfie of her mystery man giving her a kiss on the cheek in the car.

The former body builder captioned her post: 'Happened to find one that fit into the Venn diagram, loves musical theatre, pugs AND he's a boxer.

'Sometimes, love comes into your life when you least expect it, and brings you the most happiness you could ever wish for,' she captioned in one of her photos.

'I'm absolutely blessed to have met you,' she added to the post, including a love heart emoji.

Her prince: 'Sometimes, love comes into your life when you least expect it, and brings you the most happiness you could ever wish for'
What better way to make an impact on the red carpet, than with a bold new haircut?

Padma Lakshmi certainly thought so, taking the scissors to her formerly long locks hours before she turned up to the Emmys on Sunday.

'Cut my hair!' she wrote on Instagram, before the eagerly awaited bash.

Scroll down for video

Pretty in pink! Padma Lakshmi shows off bold new hair cut as she puts her fabulous figure on display at the Emmys

New 'do: Padma took the scissors to her formerly long locks hours

Clearly pleased with the results of her new 'do, the 47-year-old flicked her shorn shoulder-length locks as she posed for the cameras.

The Top Chef presenter wowed in a bright pink mermaid-length gown, as she arrived to see her show compete for Outstanding Reality Program.

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

She added a small blue ribbon to her dress - showing her support for the ACLU - the American Civil Liberties Union.

Mother-of-one Padma joined the stream of actors parading past the cameras at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Star power: The Top Chef presenter wowed in a bright pink mermaid-length gown, as she arrived to see her show compete for Outstanding Reality Program

Speaking recently she talked about learning to love her body - whatever the size on her label.

'It used to be about being a certain size and fitting into clothes, but now with Top Chef, I have clothes in every size in my closet, from a 4 to a 14,' Padma told health magazine.

Padma recently wrapped season 15 of the hit show - having revealed she once gained 17 lbs while filming.

In great shape: Padma recently wrapped season 15 of her hit show - having revealed she once gained 17 lbs while filming

What a dress: the Indian-born beauty poses for photographers

So pretty: The mother of one was looking her very best

Busty: Padma lent forward to draw attention to her sensational curves and ample cleavage

'I didnt gain as much weight as I normally do,' the Indian-born supermodel said. '[I usually gain] 10, 15 pounds - the maximum Ive gained is 17. This time I only gained eight, because of a couple of reasons.'

On Sunday Padma paused for photographs and interviews on the red carpet, which for the first time was tented and air conditioned to provide relief from the usually warm September weather in Los Angeles.

Nature provided a break as well, with temperatures in the 70s.

Sensational silhouette: Padma displayed the gorgeous fishtail shape of her dress by working all her angles

Glamourpuss: Padma accentuated her stunning features with pink and purple make-up, and ruffled her newly sheared locks

The 69th prime-time Emmy ceremony will be about winners and losers and more, including politics and a cheeky turn by host Stephen Colbert.

Colbert, whose Late Show is a regular forum on the Trump administration, said that the president is fair game during the awards show airing at 8 p.m. EDT on CBS.

The Emmys are a celebration of TV, 'and the biggest television star of the last year was Donald Trump,' Colbert said at last week's ceremonial red-carpet rollout outside Los Angeles' Microsoft Theater.

He's also claimed that his nude rear - or part of it, suitably tanned - will be included in the opening musical number.

Red carpet ready: Padma looked incredible as she pulled a variety of poses on the red carpet

Stunning: The gorgeous star oozed elegance as she worked the red carpet
Her hit show Modern Family was up for two televised Primetime Emmys on Sunday night.

And Sarah Hyland ensured all eyes were on her as she hit the red carpet at the 69th annual Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The sitcom star, 26, showed off her toned midriff through the cut-out of her autumnal dress, which featured a scarlet falling leaves pattern.

Scroll down for video

Lady in red: Sarah Hyland ensured all eyes were on her as she hit the red carpet at the 69th annual Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles

Sarah's silk sleeveless outfit fell to the floor, with its train dragging slightly behind her as she worked her magic in front of the cameras.

The Manhattan-born actress left her wavy hair down and accessorized with a couple of rings, as well as a stylish pair of fire opal, orange sapphire and ruby earrings from Lorraine Schwartz, as well as a ruby ring from the same brand.

Sarah has been playing Haley Dunphy on Modern Family since its 2009 pilot.

Abs-olutely fabulous: The sitcom star, 26, showed off her toned midriff through the cut-out of her autumnal dress, which featured a scarlet falling leaves pattern

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Ty Burrell, who plays Haley's father Phil Dunphy, has been nominated for one of the two Emmy awards the smash ABC sitcom is up for Sunday night.

He's been nominated for eight Emmys in total - including this Sunday's - for playing Phil, and has won two of them.

Modern Family is also up for Outstanding Comedy Series, an Emmy it has won five times out of eight nominations.

Lady in red: Sarah's silk sleeveless outfit fell to the floor, with its train dragging slightly behind her as she worked her magic for the cameras. She accessorized with Lorraine Schwartz jewels

Earlier on Sunday, Sarah had posted an image of herself in a tiny royal purple robe as she prepared herself for the awards show at home.

Lounging in her chair, she showed off her knockout legs as she stretched them upward to rest them on the dining table in front of her.

She tagged hairstylist Ryan Richman and Emmy nominated makeup artist Allan Avendano, both of whom can be seen in the photo working away at her.

'Getting #emmys ready with my favorite people @allanface & @ryanrichman,' she gushed in her caption with a heart emoji.

Gearing up: Earlier on Sunday, Sarah had posted an image of herself in a tiny royal purple robe as she prepared herself for the awards show at home
They've been a couple since the early 80s.

But it's clear from their behavior at the Emmys that Felicity Huffman and William H. Macy are just as in love as ever.

The long-married couple were pure couple goals as they struck a series of poses on the red carpet on Sunday.

Scroll down for video

Couple goals! Felicity Huffman and William H. Macy have a blast as they pose on the Emmys red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday

Pucker up, darling: The happily-married couple smooched up a storm as they packed on the PDA on the red carpet at the high-profile television event

Shameless star Macy - rocking an ISAIA tux - showed his attentive side as he carefully arranged his wife's pretty blue lace Tony Ward dress into a perfect position for the pictures.

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

The 67-year-old then stood, hand at his side, with Felicity tucked behind him in an identical pose.

While Macy kept his face deadpan for the humorous moment, 54-year-old Felicity laughed away.

Not so Shameless: Macy showed his attentive side as he carefully arranged his wife's pretty blue lace Tony Ward dress into a perfect position for the pictures

Power couple: Macy - rocking an ISAIA tux - was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series at the show, while Felicity was up for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie

True romance: The two met as young actors in the early 1980s at New York City's Atlantic Theater Company

Macy is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series at the show, while Felicity is up for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie for her work on American Crime.

The two met as young actors in the early 1980s at New York City's Atlantic Theater Company.

Felicity has said their meeting was 'love at first sight' - but claims she had to persuade Macy to go on their first date.

'I went on a campaign. He was certainly worth it,' she previously told the Daily Mail.

The couple dated for at least 15 years before getting married in 1997, and have two children together.

Felicity looked far younger than her 54 years, however, dazzling in a stunning lace blue dress, which had a plunging neckline and long train.

She accessorized with some stunning Lorraine Schwartz jewels, including platinum rose cut diamond drop earrings.

True love: The couple dated for at least 15 years before getting married in 1997, and have two children together
Laverne Cox likes to make a statement and she did just that as she arrived for the Emmys on Sunday in Los Angeles.

The statuesque actress, 45, rocked a metallic silver gown with a very low-cut neckline that showcased her eye-popping cleavage.

The dress featured narrow shoulder straps and a fishtail skirt that hugged the Orange Is The New Black star's figure.

Scroll down for video

Style queen: Laverne Cox turned heads as she arrived at the Emmys in LA on Sunday in a metallic silver gown with a very low-cut neckline that showcased her eye-popping cleavage

The sassy star sported black finger nails and wore black and white diamond rings and black diamond chandelier earrings that matched her dress, all of which came from Lorraine Schwartz and Ofira Jewels.

Her eyes were rimmed with dusky shadow and black liner and mascara.

She completed her look with a touch of lip gloss.

Coordinated look: The actress, 45, sported black finger nails and wore a ring and chandelier earrings that matched her dress, all from Lorraine Schwartz and Ofira Jewels

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Made a statement: The dress featured narrow shoulder straps and a fishtail skirt that hugged the Orange Is The New Black star's figure

Cox is nominated for an Emmy for a second time.

She received a nod for outstanding guest actress in a drama series for her role as Sophia in Netflix's OITNB.

She made history in 2014 when she was nominated in the same category, becoming the first openly transgender person to be nominated for an acting award at the Emmys.

Big night: Cox is nominated for an Emmy for outstanding guest actress in a drama series for her role as Sophia in Netflix's OITNB
It's the competitive Channel Nine show that is firing up its contestants.

But now tensions have reached boiling point, with rumours rife that Block contestant Elyse Knowles is bullying fellow opponent Georgia Caceres.

It's been revealed that the pair are no longer on speaking terms following a spate of incidents on and off set that have inspired a bitter and nasty battle.

'It hasn't gone unnoticed Elyse has been cropping Georgia out of group shots on social media..': Tensions have reached boiling point on The Block, with confirmation that Block contestant Elyse Knowles (L) is bullying fellow opponent Georgia Caceres(R).

Insiders have claimed that the 24-year old has been accused of being a 'mean girl', using her recently inflated online presence to take some unkind digs at the 34-year old clothing designer.

'It hasn't gone unnoticed Elyse has been cropping Georgia out of group shots on social media and making digs at her,' a set insider told Woman's Day on Monday.

Elyse made another remark about Georgia and partner Ronnie only weeks ago via Instagram, when they didn't show up at her partner Josh's birthday celebrations.

'Thanks to Scotty for putting on a big feast and those who made the effort to come along...' she captioned on her post.

A bitter battle! Insiders have claimed that Elyse Knowles has been accused of being a 'mean girl', using her recently inflated online presence to take some unkind digs at Georgia Caceres

Digs: 'It hasn't gone unnoticed Elyse has been cropping Georgia (pictured above) out of group shots on social media and making digs at her,' a set insider told Woman's Day on Monday

However, Georgia has hit back at the ongoing hostility between the two, claiming that the 'immature behaviour' that goes on behind the scenes is something that has taken its toll on her.

'Ron was sort of fine with it - it probably affected me more than anything' she told the publication.

'At one point I was struggling to get out of bed for days.'

'Ron was sort of fine with it - it probably affected me more than anything': Georgia has hit back at the ongoing hostility between the two, claiming that the 'immature behaviour' that goes on behind the scenes is something that has really taken its toll on her

While Georgia claims she has confronted counsellors over the issue, Elyse and partner Josh have said that the pair deserve the malevolence, labelling them as 'untrustworthy', following cheating allegations earlier this month.

Josh accused Georgia of stealing an iPad full of design ideas, and then using them to decorate their main bedroom.

'Ronnie and Georgia lied a few times to people's faces. They're untrustworthy,' she said.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Channel Nine for comment.
He was officially unveiled on Sunday as one of the men who will be vying for Sophie Monk's heart on The Bachelorette.

But it appears the former Bardot star isn't the only high-profile identity that suitor Ryan Jones, 26, is connected to.

According to this week's Woman's Day magazine, the construction foreman has links to notorious King Cross personality John Ibrahim via a friendship with his son.

Scroll down for video

Surprising connection: According to this week's Woman's Day, new Bachelorette suitor Ryan Jones (pictured) is friends with Daniel Taylor, the son of King Cross identity, John Ibrahim

The publication reported that although Ryan hasn't committed any crimes himself, he has forged a friendship with the nightclub identity's son, Daniel Taylor, who was recently arrested.

Daniel was one of 18 people arrested in August as part of a sting on the multi-million dollar drug syndicate alleged to be operating across Australia, Dubai and the Netherlands.

The 26-year-old was arrested in Sydney for allegedly handing over a suitcase holding $2.25m to buy illegal tobacco as part of a deal masterminded by his uncle Michael.

Daniel was later released on bail and barred from contacting any of his co-accuseds, including his uncles.

Brush with the law: Daniel (left) is the son of John Ibrahim (right) and was one of 18 people arrested in August as part of a sting on a multi-million dollar drug syndicate

Looking for love! Ryan will be one of the men vying for Sophie Monk's affections

However, Daniel isn't the only well-known name Ryan is connected to.

The former rugby player also grew up with ex-Bachelorette star Jake Ellis, who took part in Georgia Love's season of the franchise.

Also in his friendship circle is Lisa Hyde, who was runner-up next to Sam Frost as they tried to win Blake Garvey's love in season two of The Bachelor.

Well-connected: Ryan also allegedly knows former Bachelorette suitor Jake Ellis and ex-Bachelor star Lisa Hyde

The Coogee-based suitor admitted to TV WEEK this week he has 'high standards' when it comes to what he's looking for in a partner.

'Seeing my parents' relationship is something I aspire to have one day,' he explained.

In April, Sophie also revealed she had family on her mind when it came to searching for love.

'I definitely want a family and I want someone that wants children too. I want to have a normal life like everyone else,' she previously told News Corp.

High standards: The 26-year-old also told TV WEEK he aspires to find a relationship that is similar to the one his parents enjoy
He's the hunky entrepreneur who is set to compete for Sophie Monk's heart on The Bachelorette.

But recent comments made by Perth investor Blake, 29, have raised questions about his intentions after he revealed he is highly attracted to famous women.

'I've dated people with higher profiles than Sophie's exes,' he proudly revealed to Woman's Day on Monday.

Drawn to fame: Recent comments made by Bachelorette star Blake, 29, have raised questions about his intentions with Sophie Monk after he revealed he is highly attracted to famous women'

The publication also revealed that Blake is a former model and has his very own YouTube channel.

It is unclear who exactly the hunk has previously dated however, a brief look at Sophie's famous exes, which include actor Sam Worthington, suggests Blake's conquests may have been A-listers.

Blake's comments come after the charming hunk promised to be like 'nothing this show has ever seen.'

'I've dated people with higher profiles than Sophie's exes,' Blake proudly revealed to Woman's Day on Monday ahead of The Bachelorette premiere

He's the third confirmed contestant and at 29-years-old, continues the current trend of applicants significantly younger than Bachelorette Sophie Monk, 37.

He was recently announced via The Bachelor's Instagram account, introducing himself in a short video clip.

Sporting a neat short back and sides crew cut, the dark-haired, bearded hunk wore an on-the-brink of tacky red velvet suit.

'My names is Blake, I'm 29, and I'm an investor slash entrepreneur, and I'm from Perth' he confidently announced.

'And I'm like nothing this show has ever seen.'

Fan reactions in the comments were mixed, with one simply writing: 'Waaay too young,' noting the pair's 8-year age gap.

Introduce yourself: 'My names is Blake, I'm 29, and I'm an investor slash entrepreneur, and I'm from Perth' he confidently announced in a short video on Instagram

'And probably the first to leave,' another added.

One quipped: 'Entrepreneur, seriously. Another word for unemployed.'

Blake is the third contestant to be announced, with it becoming clear former radio star Sophie will have to venture outside of her comfort zone to find love.

'Waay too young': Fan reactions in the comments were mixed, with one simply writing: 'Waaay too young,' noting the pair's 8-year age gap

In awkward footage released on Channel Ten's social media accounts last week, the 37-year-old was introduced to two other bachelors.

The first, a magician named Apollo, surprised the audience at just 24-years of age, 13 younger than Sophie.

The next was vineyard manager Jarrod, continuing the younger trend at 31.

He casually strolled out with a keg of grapes, inviting the beauty to crush them with her, and presumably devoid of any polite way to say 'no,' she obliged.

Surprise! The first, a magician named Apollo (L) surprised at just 24-years of age, 13 younger than Sophie, while vineyard manager Jarrod (R) 31, continued the younger suitor trend
She was joining the great and good of the Hollywood television industry at one of the biggest showbiz events of the year.

And Lea Michele ensured all eyes were well and truly on her as she hit the red carpet at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

The actress, 31, looked busty in a dramatic royal purple low-cut gown, which was covered in glittering sequins.

Scroll down for video

Princess in purple: Lea Michele ensured all eyes were well and truly on her as she hit the red carpet at the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night

Cinched in the middle to show off her slim waist, the star's dress fanned out to give a true princess look.

Lea wore her dark locks straight, and accentuated her striking features with expertly-applied make-up, accessorizing with a pair of purple sapphire, emerald and white diamond Lorraine Schwartz earrings.

While on the carpet, Lea revealed to Giuliana Rancic of E! News that Ryan Murphy had signed off on her new romance with fashion executive Zandy Reich.

Lea told Giuliana of Ryan's impact on her relationship: 'I was here with Ryan Murphy yesterday.

Fit for a (Scream) Queen: The actress, 31, looked busty in a dramatic royal purple low-cut gown, which was covered in glittering sequins

- If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

'So Ryan is like my family one of the greatest friends in the world that I have, so when my boyfriend got the seal of approval from Ryan Murphy, that's it.'

She quipped: 'Yeah, my parents, friends, whatever, but Ryan Murphy, done deal seals the deal.'

Lea, whose first dose of fame came from starring on Broadway in the musicalization of Frank Wedekind's Spring Awakening, hit a whole new level of notoriety with Glee.

Created by Ryan with Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan, Glee - a musical TV series set in a high school - featured Lea as the talented diva Rachel Berry from 2009 until 2015.

Elegant: Cinched in the middle to show off her slim waist, the star's dress fanned out to give a true princess look. She accessorized with glittering Lorraine Schwartz earrings.

The lovebirds: While on the red carpet, she revealed to Giuliana Rancic of E! News that Ryan Murphy had signed off on her new romance with fashion executive Zandy Reich

Lea's since also featured on Scream Queens, a short-lived horror comedy that Ryan had also created alongside Brad and Ian.

Beginning in 2015, it managed to last two seasons before its cancellation went public this May.

Although Lea isn't herself nominated for any Emmy Awards on Sunday evening, Ryan's show Feud: Bette And Joan racked up seven nods for televised Emmys.

As its title indicates, the show chronicles the infamous battle of wills between legendary Hollywood stars Joan Crawford and Bette Davis.

Before hitting the carpet on Sunday, Lea posted an Instagram selfie of herself during her preparations for the night's festivities.

She tagged her hairstylist Sarah Potempa and makeup artist Melanie Inglessis, who both appear with her in the photo.

Trio: Before hitting the carpet on Sunday, Lea posted an Instagram selfie of herself during her preparations with hairstylist Sarah Potempa and makeup artist Melanie Inglessis
They have been fuelling split rumours all summer, and he was even reportedly arrested for assaulting the beauty back in June.

But Scott Thomas and Kady McDermott hinted they had reconciled their romance on Sunday, by documenting their date night on social media.

The brunette, 22, took to Instagram to inform fans she was cooking Scott's 'favourite' dish lamb chops - before the curly-haired hunk shared the same meal to his own page, implying the pair were back on good terms.

Scroll down for video

On again? Scott Thomas and Kady McDermott hinted they had reconciled their romance on Sunday, by documenting their date night on social media

After months of swirling split rumours, the pair all but confirmed they were still together on Sunday with a series of loved-up social media snaps.

Kady first took to her Instagram story to share a shot of some lamb chops, gravy and red wine, captioned 'His favourite' - implying she was cooking for her beau.

After posting another image of his empty plate, she then uploaded a clip of herself watching television, with Scott cosily lying on her lap.

Sweet: Kady first took to her Instagram story to share a shot of some lamb chops, gravy and red wine, captioned 'His favourite' - implying she was cooking for her beau

Fuelling the fire: She went on to post another image of his empty plate

Cosy: She then uploaded a clip of herself watching television, with Scott cosily lying on her lap

Only intensifying the display, Scott himself then shared images of the same lamb chops to his own page, as well as a few videos of him playing with Kady's dog Coby.

The pair have remained silent about their romance on social media over the last few months, and even unfollowed each other on Twitter in July - sparking rumours they had split.

MailOnline has contacted representatives of Scott and Kady for comment.

Stronger than ever? The pair have remained silent about their romance on social media over the last few months, and even unfollowed each other on Twitter - sparking split rumours

Despite their own united front however, it became clear that the 2016 and 2017 Love Island contestants were at loggerheads on Sunday - after Amber Davies slammed Kady and Scott for failing to support the newbies on the show.

During the ITV2 series this July, the duo had openly tweeted their opinions about the contestants, and even claimed the 2017 stars were not as genuine during an interview with Lorraine.

However Amber, who recently won the series with Kem Cetinay, went on to slam the former contestants for not standing behind the new show stars.

At loggerheads: The snaps come after 2017 Love Island winner Amber Davies (above) slammed the pair for not supporting the show's new contestants

She told the Daily Star of their online comments: 'I'm quite shocked. You'd think they'd be supportive. They've been in the same situation as you, they know how it works.'

Before adding in a subtle dig: 'The show changed my life and it'll change the lives of the new contestants.

'I definitely will be taking a different approach to some of the people this year.'

Victorious: Amber, who recently won the series with Kem Cetinay (above), said of the former stars' harsh comments: 'You'd think they'd be supportive. They've been in the same situation'

Meanwhile Scott and Kady's loved-up snaps come just two days after it was claimed Scott had spent the night in a cell for lashing out at her, following a boozy evening with his friends.

According to The Sun, Scott allegedly assaulted Kady in a drunken tiff after waking her up in the middle of the night.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: 'Shortly after 4:35AM on Saturday 24 June 2017, police were called to reports of a domestic incident at an address in Heald Green, Stockport.

'Officers attended and arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of assault. He was later released without charge and no further action will be taken.'

Better terms: Meanwhile Scott and Kady's loved-up snaps come just two days after it was claimed Scott had spent the night in a cell for lashing out at her while drunk

A source added to the paper: 'Kady was furious when Scott came into the house drunk. They had a huge row and it got out of hand with some pushing and shoving.

'Kady called the police and Scott spent the rest of the night in a cell. It was blown out of proportion and they were both really embarrassed the next day.'

Yet, on Friday afternoon, Kady appeared to contradict reports by tweeting for the first time about Scott in months.

She wrote to fans: 'Me and Scott are happy in our own little private bubble,' which her beau soon re-tweeted.

The pair have fuelled split rumours all summer - with neither posting about each other on social media, and sharing a number of passive aggressive messages.
She triumphed over some of the biggest names in Hollywood to be named Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

And taking to the stage for her victory speech, Elisabeth Moss knew just who she wanted to thank.

'My brother, Derick, for being my best friend since the day you were born,' she said. 'And my mother. You are brave and strong and smart and you have taught me that you can be kind and a f***ing badass.'

Pretty in pink: Elisabeth Moss stunned in a Prabal Gurung gown at the 69th annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Celebrating in style: The actress was overjoyed with her big win for the hard-hitting show

The Handmaid's Tale star overcame stiff competition from the other nominees to triumph, beating Keri Russell, The Americans; Claire Foy, The Crown; The Handmaid's Tale; Robin Wright, House of Cards; Viola Davis, How to Get Away with Murder; Evan Rachel Wood, Westworld.

She seemed thrilled as she took to the stage to celebrate.

'So crazy!' she began. 'Im going to go with Hulu and MGM, thank you so much for supporting our show.

Mom's the word: Taking to the stage for her victory speech, Elisabeth knew just who she wanted to thank

Victorious: Elisabeth celebrates with Oprah as her show is named Outstanding Drama Series

I can't believe it: Elisabeth and Ann Dowd react after accepting the night's top award

Hugging it out: The cast couldn't believe their luck at beating off stiff competition

Tribute: Elisabeth told her mother 'You are brave and strong and smart and you have taught me that you can be kind and a f***ing badass'

Pretty in pink: The 35-year-old actress went for a 50s style Prabal Gurung number

Sealed with a kiss: The TV star showed her appreciation for both her trophies

Double whammy: She posed with both the Outstanding Drama and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series prize

'Each and every one of you has inspired me so much. You all deserve to be up here with me.'

Also getting a mention were her 'incredible' castmates and her manager and Handmaids Tale author Margaret Atwood for 'what you did in 1985. Thank you for what you continue to do for all of us.'

She also thanked director Reed Morano for 'teaching me what it means to be balls to the wall.'

Cosying up: Elizabeth and Samira Wiley (left) joined forces, while John Hamm (right) posed with her behind-the-scenes

Dazzling: Elisabeth pulled her look together with a pair of silver earrings

And Elisabeth sure looked like a winner on the red carpet.

The 35-year-old actress looked pretty in a pink Prabal Gurung number.

She definitely turned heads in the strapless midi dress at the event held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The dress worn by the former star of Mad Men definitely had a bit of a retro feel to it as it featured a bodice and flowy skirt.

Main cast: Ann Dowd, Elisabeth and Alexis Bledel joined forces behind the scenes

Glamorous: Gilmore Gils stat Alexis wore her brunette locks down in loose curls

Dazzling: Alexis' dress was embellished with a glittering purple pattern

All together now: The Handmaid's Tale cast posed all together behind the scenes

Elisabeth kept the rest of her look in the blush colour as she sported tie-up heels from Olgana Paris and accessorized with a matching pink clutch.

She also rocked a pair of gold earrings and wore her medium-length blonde locks down flowing over her shoulders.

The actress let her natural looks show with complimentary make-up topped off with a swipe of shiny pink lip.

The Television Academy's 21,000 members were given two weeks in June to sift through a crowded field of some 8,000 entries from shows aired during the previous 12 months across 113 categories.

Keeping the party going: Elisabeth then headed on to Hulu's 2017 Emmy After Party at Otium

Celebrating: Writer Bruce Miller was the winner of Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for The Handmaid's Tale

Terrific trio: Annapurna's Susan Goldberg and Sarah Gubbins posed with Elisabeth

Thrilled: Elisabeth looked pleased as punch with her trophies
He's faced a slew of bad press after being found to have underpaid restaurant staff and getting charged with assault.

And a fresh report in Woman's Day this week claimed Network Ten are 'seriously weighing up their options' on whether to keep the cooking talent on MasterChef.

But Network Ten has rubbished the report, telling Daily Mail Australia on Monday: 'All of the MasterChef Australia judges including George Calombaris will return in 2018.'

Scroll down for video

'George Calombaris will return in 2018': Channel Ten DENIES troubled star is being dumped from MasterChef ... after report claimed network was 'seriously weighing up their options'

Earlier this month, George appeared in court to plead guilty to assaulting a teenager at the A-League grand final earlier this year.

In April, the celebrity chef's restaurants were found to have underpaid $2.6 million in wages to staff.

Posters have since been circulating through Melbourne's CBD plastered with George's face and 'offering advice on how to recoup wages', Woman's Day claimed.

Bad press? Posters have since been circulating through Melbourne's CBD plastered with George's face and 'offering advice on how to recoup wages'

Claims: The publication also alleged Network Ten was 'weighing up their options' over whether to include George on MasterChef in 2018

The publication also alleged Network Ten was 'weighing up their options' over whether to include George on MasterChef in 2018.

'MasterChef prides itself on being a feelgood family show,' a 'source' told the magazine.

'There's no denying George's negative PR will impact the brand. They're seriously weighing up their options.'

Returning: A Network Ten spokesperson rubbished the report and said George would absolutely be coming back for a second season

But a Network Ten spokesperson rubbished the report and said George would absolutely be coming back for a second season.

'All of the MasterChef Australia judges including George Calombaris will return in 2018,' the spokesperson said.

'With MasterChef Australia celebrating its 10th anniversary next year  a remarkable achievement for any television series  the cooking program that led a cultural phenomenon and changed the landscape of Australian television is ready for its biggest series yet.'
Nicole Kidman was simply sizzling on the red carpet of Sunday's Primetime Emmy Awards.

The strawberry blonde actress looked ravishing in a plunging red Calvin Klein gown held up with silver straps which hung down her cleavage for a necklace-like effect as she posed up a storm at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

It was a big night for the Aussie beauty and her Big Little Lies castmates Reese Witherspoon, Zoe Kravitz, Shailene Woodley and Laura Dern, as they scooped an incredible six prizes.

Scroll down for video

Red hot! Nicole Kidman was simply sizzling on the red carpet of Sunday's Primetime Emmy Awards, where she was nominated for best actress in a limited series

Nicole paired her frock with pink heels adorned with gemstones and cherry red lips while piling her hair into a sleek updo.

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Hubby Keith Urban looked dapper in a simple suit and shiny brogues.

It was a successful night for the cast and crew of the hit HBO drama with Big Little Lies scooping six major prizes, including Outstanding Limited Series.

Date night! Hubby Keith Urban looked dapper in a simple suit and shiny brogues

On the up and up! The Aussie beauty added cherry red lips while piling her hair into a sleek updo

On fire! The strawberry blonde looked ravishing in a plunging red Calvin Klein gown held up with silver straps which hung down her cleavage for a necklace-like effect

It was a big night for the Aussie beauty and her Big Little Lies castmates Reese Witherspoon, Zoe Kravitz, Shailene Woodley and Laura Dern, as they scooped an incredible six prizes

Sealed with a kiss! The country musician shared a passionate kiss with his award-winning love at the official HBO after-party

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series went to Nicole, Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series went to Alexander Skarsgard and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series went to Laura Dern.

Later on, the statuesque beauty teamed up with Big Little Lies co-stars Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley and Laura Dern to present the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

The award went to Sterling K. Brown of NBC's This Is Us.

Twice as nice! The Big Little Lies star got to be twice as proud as both a lead and executive producer of the HBO hit

Flying high! Reese was all smiles as she posed with her wings after the show

Reese's pieces! The blonde beauty glowed with joy at the post-awards party

Pal Reese looked like she meant business in an blazer-inspired frock by Stella McCartney that featured sharp lapels and petite pockets.

The dress was perfectly tailored to her slim silhouette, highlighting the producer-actress's slim waist, toned legs, and flirty cleavage.

The Southern Belle added velvet pumps in a matching sapphire hue.

Twinning! Reese brought daughter Ava Elizabeth Phillippe as her date to the post-awards party

Handing out the hardware! Later on, the beauty teamed up with Big Little Lies costars Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley and Laura Dern to present Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Nine to five! Pal Reese looked like she meant business in an blazer-inspired frock that with sharp lapels and petite pockets

She teamed her silken dress with straight, sleek tresses with a center part while painting her pout in an orange-red.

Drop earrings and sapphire rings rounded out her look.

Reese brought daughter Ava Elizabeth Phillippe as her date to the post-awards party.

Fits like a glove! The dress was perfectly tailored to her slim silhouette, highlighting the producer-actress's tiny waist, toned legs, and flirty cleavage along with matching velvet heels

Straight and narrow! She teamed her silken dress with straight, sleek tresses with a center part while painting her pout in an orange-red

The mother-daughter duo looked more like sisters, with the teen reaching taller than her mom while clad in chic black with obligatory heels.

Shailene Woodley looked jaw-droppingly gorgeous in custom designed Ralph Lauren which dipped low to reveal her chest, while featuring sexy crisscrossing straps at back.

The Divergent darling tucked her hair back in a subdued ponytail while framing her eyes in smokey grey.

Shailene Woodley looked jaw-droppingly gorgeous in custom designed Ralph Lauren

Crossing the line! The emerald green dress dipped low to reveal her chest, while featuring sexy crisscrossing straps at back

Green with envy! The Divergent darling tucked her hair back in a subdued ponytail while framing her eyes in smokey grey

Darling in Dior! Zoe Kravitz stunned in feathered Dior which featured a wash of sunset colored plumes upon the skirt

Zoe Kravitz stunned in feathered Dior which featured a wash of sunset colored plumes upon the skirt.

She kept kinds simple up top with a pair of glittering necklaces, a chic black crop, and winged eyeliner.

The daughter of rocker Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet was joined by beau Karl Glusman, who looked polished in slick suit and 'stache.

Ruffling feathers! The Big Little Lies beauty stood out from the crowd in her artful gown

Top of the crops! Zoe looked classic with a chic black crop and winged eyeliner

French kiss! Zoe's intricate gown was from the French fashion favorite's Fall 2017 couture collection

24 Carat! Double trouble! She kept kinds simple up top with a pair of glittering necklaces that had matching rings and a bangle

Beau-ing the distance! The daughter of rocker Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet was joined by beau Karl Glusman

Secret 'stache! The actor looked polished in slick suit and 'stache

Laura Dern also ruffled feathers, donning a glittering black and white Proenza Schuler gown that flashed hints of skin with intricate cutouts scatter throughout while a plumed bottom added extra drama.

Later on, the Twin Peaks starlet would pick up the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie.

She thanked her 'tribe of four ladies,' explaining that she was so proud to depict 'fierce mothers' besides her castmates.

Sweet sixteen! Dern's HBO drama earned 16 nods, tying with channel-mate Veep with 17 bids and FX's Fargo for the third most nominated series

Well plumed! Laura Dern ruffled feathers in monochrome Proenza Schulerwith intricate cutouts scatter throughout while a plumed bottom added extra drama

XOXO: The Twin Peaks actress hugged Nicole before getting on stage to accept her honor

Her tribe! She thanked her 'tribe of four ladies,' explaining that she was so proud to depict 'fierce mothers' besides her castmates

The HBO drama earned 16 nods, tying with channel-mate Veep with 17 bids, and FX's Fargo for the third most nominated series.

Oscar winners Nicole and Reese went go head-to-head in the best actress in a limited series category while Laura Dern beat out Shailene Woodley for the supporting actress gong.

Alexander Skarsgard took home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie.

The ladies of Big Little Lies celebrated their big night of wins at HBO's after party

Still supportive! The striking blonde beat out Shailene Woodley for the supporting actress gong

Hot competition! Oscar winners Nicole and Reese went head-to-head in the best actress in a limited series category, with Kidman eventually going home with the thespian trophy

Watch yourself! Those looking to watch the Emmys tonight can tune in from nearly anywhere on CBS All Access, which costs $5.99 a month but comes with a free seven-day trial

You go guy! Big Little Lies co-star Alexander Skarsgard took home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie
Advertisement

The Handmaid's Tale may have had the biggest night but it was Julia Louis-Dreyfus who made history at the 69th Emmy Awards on Sunday.

The 56-year-old actress won Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for the the sixth consecutive year en route to tying a record for most acting awards ever at the event held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The big win for HBO comedy series Veep ties her with acting legend Cloris Leachman for most ever by a performer as they both have eight gongs total.

In her acceptance speech, the veteran actress said: 'This is and continues to be the role of a lifetime and an adventure of utter utter joy.'

Scroll down for video

Blazing the trail: Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Elisabeth Moss' The Handmaid's Tale were the big winners at the 69th Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday night

Wow factor: The Hulu drama The Handmaid's Tale took home the most coveted award and final prize of the the night: Outstanding Drama Series

She faced stiff competition as she was up against talented stars including Pamela Adlon, Jane Fonda, Allison Janney, Ellie Kemper, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Lily Tomlin. Veep also took home the Outstanding Comedy Series prize.

Hulu series The Handmaid's Tale was the biggest winner of the night with eight gongs including the final award of the night: Outstanding Drama Series.

It faced heavy competition including: Better Call Saul, The Crown, House of Cards, Stranger Things, This Is Us, and Westworld.

Elisabeth Moss also triumphed in the coveted Outstanding Actress in a Drama category.

She kept her speech sentimental as she thanked her family as she said: 'My brother, Derick, for being my best friend since the day you were born.

'And my mother. You are brave and strong and smart and you have taught me that you can be kind and a f***ing badass.'

The Handmaid's Tale star overcame stiff competition from the other nominees to triumph, beating Keri Russell, The Americans; Claire Foy, The Crown; The Handmaid's Tale; Robin Wright, House of Cards; Viola Davis, How to Get Away with Murder; Evan Rachel Wood, Westworld.

Golden girl: The big win for HBO comedy series Veep ties her with acting legend Cloris Leachman for most ever by a performer as they both have eight gongs total

Bow to your masters: Chris Hardwick got on one knee as he presented the star with the trophy

Big win: Veep also took home the Outstanding Comedy Series prize

Twice as nice: She has won the same award for six consecutive years

Golden: The cast and crew of the HBO series posed together with their shiny new prizes

Also a big winner for the drama was veteran actress of over 30 years Ann Dowd, who may have received the biggest honor of her career as she won the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.

The 61-year-old actress was visibly shocked while walking to the stage and had tears in her eyes as she accepted the prize for her work in the Hulu show.

During the emotional speech she said: 'I've been acting for a long time and that this should happen now I don't have the words.'

In another history making moment Reed Morano became the first woman to win a drama directing award at the Emmys in 22 years.

The 40-year-old filmmaker took home the Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series prize for her work on the episode titled Offred.

Pretty in pink: Elisabeth Moss also triumphed in the coveted Outstanding Actress in a Drama category

Meeting a legend: The actress seemed happy to meet Oprah who presented her with the award

Better than the trophy: She even received a hug from the media mogul

Happy times: Elisabeth looked pleased as they took home the last award of the night

Touching: Ann Dowd won the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series gong for her role in The Handmaid's Tale

Blazing a trail: In another history making moment Reed Morano became the first woman to win a drama directing award at the Emmys in 22 years

It was also a huge night for limited HBO series Big Little Lies as it took home six awards including Outstanding Limited Series.

Nicole Kidman earned one of the top honors of the night as she triumphed in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie category over stiff competition including castmate Reese Witherspoon.

The 50-year-old actress thanked her co-stars before opening up about family life with husband Keith Urban and their two daughters.

She said: 'I am also a mother and a wife, I have two little daughters Sunny and Faith and my darling Keith - who I asked to help me pursue this artistic path.

'And they have to sacrifice so much for it, so this is yours - I want my little girls to have this on their shelf and to look at it and go 'every time my mum didn't put me to bed it's because of this - I got something.'

Huge win: Nicole Kidman won Outstanding Actress as she lead the way for Big Little Lies' six gongs

Happy times: The HBO shows six awards including Outstanding Limited Series

Shining star: Laura Dern won the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie gong

Transcendent: Alexander Skarsgard took home a gong in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie for his work on Big Little Lies

Sweet smooch: Alexander's on-screen love-interest congratulated him with a smooch on the lips in front of her husband Keith Urban

Squad goals: Earlier in the night: Shailene Woodley, Nicole, Reese Witherspoon, Laura, and Zoe Kravitz presented the Supporting Actress in a Drama Series gong at the event

She continued by talking about how the HBO series has opened up a dialogue on a very sensitive subject; domestic violence.

Nicole added: 'But also I want them to know that sometimes when you're acting you get a chance to bring a bigger message and this is their contribution and your contribution - we've shone a light on domestic abuse.

'It is a complicated insidious disease, it exists far more than we allow ourselves to know - it is filled with shame, secrecy and by you acknowledging me with this award it shines a light on it even more - so thank you, thank you, thank you I bow down to you.'

Laura Dern was another big winner as she focused on the sisterhood with her female co-stars in her touching acceptance speech.

The 50-year-old actress won the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie gong at the She definitely seemed grateful for her co-stars including Reese Witherspoon, Nicole, Zoe Kravitz, and Shailene Woodley as she said: 'I share this with my tribe of four ladies.'

Purple reign: It was also a big night for Donald Glover as he was named the winner for Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series for his work on Atlanta

Awaken his love: The 33-year-old actor and musical artist looked dapper in a purple Gucci suit as he revealed that he is expecting another child with his girlfriend during his acceptance speech

Genius: Glover became the first black director to win the Emmy for Outstanding Director For A Comedy Series

Hilarious: He was presented with the honor by Dave Chappelle and Melissa McCarthy

Already winners: The comedy duo each won awards earlier in the night for their guest spots on Saturday Night Live

Alexander Skarsgard was also honored at the event as he took home the coveted Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie award as he thanked the female-heavy cast for including him.

The handsome 41-year-old Swedish actor said: 'Thank you for making this boy feel like one of the girls.'

It was also a big night for Donald Glover as he was named the winner for Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series for his work on Atlanta.

The 33-year-old actor and musical artist looked dapper in a purple Gucci suit as he revealed that he is expecting another child with his girlfriend during his acceptance speech.

'I want to thank Michelle, my partner, you love me even with how crazy I get,' he added.

'I want to thank my baby, my son, for just being the joy in my life. I want to thank my unborn son, we're listening to Stevie tonight,' Glover said onstage.

Dapper: Riz Ahmed earned Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie for The Night Of

Big winner: Sterling K. Brown received a standing ovation as he won Outstanding Actor in a Drama for This Is Us

Milestone: Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win for comedy writing for Master Of None along with Aziz Ansari

Glover earlier during the awards ceremony became the first black director to win the Emmy for Outstanding Director For A Comedy Series.

Sterling K. Brown received a standing ovation as he won Outstanding Actor in a Drama for This Is Us.

The 41-year-old actor had one of the standout speeches of the night as he named all the highly popular characters fellow thespians played to win the same award.

He said: 'This joint right here, like Walter White held this joint here. Dick Whitman held this joint. I may have lost some of yall but you know, Google it. And 19 years ago Detective Frank Pembleton held this joint, as impeccably played by Andre Braugher.'

Riz Ahmed earned Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie for The Night Of.

Big win: John Lithgow won the first award of the night in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series category for his role as Winston Churchill in The Crown

Making a point: The 71-year-old actor thanked the character he played while taking a thinly-veiled shot at the current US political climate as he said: 'Winston Churchill reminds us what courage in government really looks like'

The 34-year-old actor - who is the first actor of Asian decent to earn the honor - used the platform to point out the the injustices in the justice system.

He said: 'I want to say it is always strange reaping the rewards of a story based on real-world suffering, but if this show has shown a light on some of the prejudice in our societies, some of the injustice in our justice system, then maybe that is something.'

Another milestone occurred when Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win for comedy writing for Master Of None along with Aziz Ansari.

The 33-year-old actress got emotional as she said: 'The things that make us different  those are our superpowers.'

Talented: Kate McKinnon won the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy gong for the second year in a row

Muse: The comedienne got emotional as she thanked former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton

Yuge! Alec Baldwin won Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy for lampooning Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live

Still relevant: Creator Lorne Michaels accepted the gong as Saturday Night Live won Outstanding Variety Sketch Series

And now this: John Oliver happily accepted the Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series award and also later won the Outstanding Variety/Talk Series award as Last Week Tonight With John Oliver beat out SNL

She also mentioned her 'LGBTQIA family' before urging viewers to 'go out there and conquer the world. It would not be as beautiful as it is if we werent in it.'

John Lithgow kicked off the night by winning the first gong.

The 71-year-old actor received the shiny new Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series trophy for his role as Winston Churchill in The Crown.

As he beat out several talented actors including Jonathan Banks, Ron Cephas Jones, David Harbour, Mandy Patinkin, and Jeffrey Wright, he began his speech by saying: 'I feel so lucky to have won this in the company of my nominees'

Big winner: Charlie Brooker accepted the Outstanding Television Movie award for Black Mirror: San Junipero

Hitting the high notes: Hamilton star Christopher Jackson performed during the 'In Memoriam' segment

Talented: Rachel Bloom performed a song and dance for a funny segment

He even stopped to thank the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom as he said: 'Winston Churchill reminds us what courage in government really looks like.'

Saturday Night Live also earned a few wins including one for Alec Baldwin for his recurring portrayal of President Donald Trump.

Cast-member Kate McKinnon once again got a win in the comedy supporting actress category as she won the same category last year for her impression of Hillary Clinton.

Host with the most: After a funny video, host Stephen Colbert came out with dancers

Funnyman: As he is known for his political humor, much of his monologue poked fun at the current presidential administration

Wow factor: The most shocking moment of the monologue came out when former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer came out on a podium to address the crowd

What a shock: As Melissa McCarthy is best known for parodying the former member of the Donald Trump administration she looked surprised

Shock and awe: Modern Family stars Julie Bowen and Sarah Hyland could hardly contain their excitement

Back-up plan: The event began with a funny videotaped segment featuring Anthony Anderson and Allison Janney

Chano from 79th: Chance The Rapper made a surprise appearance by rapping in the clip

Hilarious: At one point during the show Colbert interviewed RuPaul who played a living Emmy statue

Melissa McCarthy also won for Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her fantastic portrayal of unhinged White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. Dave Chappelle was also a winner in the award announced before the televised portion of the event.

Creator Lorne Michaels also accepted a gong as Saturday Night Live won Outstanding Variety Sketch Series.

It was not a successful night for Westworld and Stranger Things as both shows were shutout on the night despite receiving several nominations.

Westworld had the most nominations coming into the event with 22 including at the Creative Arts Emmys which were held last week. At that gala they earned Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (one hour format) which was their only Emmy award of the year.

Wonder in white: Oprah looked fantastic as she presented one of the biggest awards of the night

Legends: Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda - pictured from left to right - presented Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie

Mother-figure: Anna Faris hugged Allison Janney as they presented together

A dream in tangerine: Viola Davis looked in fine form

Star-studded: Alec Baldwin and Edie Falco presented together

Not so Insecure: Issa Rae presented alongside big winner RIz Ahmed

Filled with Glee: Lea Michele and Kumail Nanjiani were happy to present the Outstanding Reality-Competition gong to THe Voice

Shining stars: Comedy actresses Kaitlyn Olson and Tracee Ellis Ross presented together

Unlikely combo: Funnyman Seth MacFarlane and Emmy Rossum joined forces

Stranger Things took home five awards at the Creative Arts Emmys last week but struck out on the other thirteen nominations including all the awards presented on Sunday.

The star-studded affair was held at the beautiful Microsoft Theater in Downtown Los Angeles on Sunday.

Comedian and late night host Stephen Colbert kicked off the festivities with a hilarious musical number which featured the likes of Allison Janney and Anthony Anderson. Critically-acclaimed hip-hop star Chance The Rapper even had a verse in the song.

As he is known for his political commentary, there were several comparisons made between the current US administration and current television shows including Stranger Things, This Is Us, and Veep.

Colbert finally hit the stage with several dancers who were dressed in shimmering red dresses and bonnets.

Classic: Norman Lear and Carol Burnett received quite the ovation

Looking good: Tatiana Maslany and Jeffrey Dean Morgan matched in black

Friend or foes? Seth Meyers and James Corden didn't let their competing time slots get in between them

Back to the future: Jim Parsons posed with Iain Armitage who will be playing the child version of his iconic character Sheldon

Specs appeal: Rashida Jones and Mark Feuerstein looked happy to announce a big winner

Vets: Kyra Sedgwick and Dennis Quaid strutted their stuff together

Just the two of us: Alexis Bledel and Gerald McRaney hit the stage

Cool bolbom Sonequa Martin-Green was ravishing in red as she presented with Jeremy Piven

He then went into his monologue which also included many political jokes. Colbert even took a serious turn as he thanked first responders who have helped aid victims of Hurricane Harvey and Irma and urged everyone to donate to Hand In Hand.

HBO's Game of Thrones, which dominated last year's Emmys with 23 nods and 12 trophies, including its second consecutive best drama award, fell outside the eligibility window for Emmy consideration this year.

The Television Academy's 21,000 members were given two weeks in June to sift through a crowded field of some 8,000 entries from shows aired during the previous 12 months across 113 categories.

If you want to watch the Emmys from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Loved up: Julia cuddled up with husband Brad Hall at the star-studded Governor's Ball after the event

Golden boy: Sterling proudly showed off his shiny new trophy at the gala

Dynamic duo: Aziz and Donald also posed with their awards

Cool guys: They congratulated each other on their big wins

Happy to be there: Sean Spicer smiled from ear-to-ear as he hung out at the Governor's Ball

Meeting of the minds: Alec Baldwin posed with Lorne Michaels at the gala
She was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series at the age of 70.

And Susan Sarandon looked ravishing in an off-the-shoulder navy gown as she attended the 69th annual Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday night.

The Oscar-winning actress shared the red carpet with her co-star in FX's Feud and fellow nominee Jessica Lange, 68, who was equally stunning.

Scroll down for video

Timeless beauties: Susan Sarandon, 70, and Jessica Lange, 68, dazzled at the Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday night

The Dead Man Walking star turned the magic on for the cameras in a sophisticated chic floor length number.

Throwing caution to the wind, Susan left her gorgeous decolletage bare as she accessorized with a only pair of gold earrings.

Her trademark red tresses were left long and loose as they just nipped the top of her petite shoulders.

Stunner: The Dead Man Walking star graced the halls of the Microsoft Theater in a sophisticated chic floor length number in navy blue

Daring: Throwing caution to the wind, Susan left her gorgeous decolletage bare as she accessorized with a only pair of gold earrings

Meanwhile, Jessica was not to be outdone as she dazzled in a plunging black and gold velvet dress.

Her decolletage was left bare as well while the couture number was adorned in a gold leaf and vine motif.

The American Horror Story veteran went with a soft makeup palette as she swept her golden locks off to the side of her youthful face.

Showstopper: Susan's trademark red tresses were left loose as they just nipped the top of her petite shoulders

What a pair: Jessica was not to be outdone as she dazzled in a plunging black and gold velvet dress while posing up a storm alongside her co-star

The Hollywood legends were up for the acting awards for their portrayal in Ryan Murphy's Feud.

The series follows Bette Davis - Susan - and Joan Crawford - Jessica - as they traverse their personal feud while filming the cult classic Whatever Happened To Baby Jane.

This was the fifth Emmy nomination for Susan and the eighth nomination for Jessica.

Headturners: Jessica's decolletage was left bare as well while the couture number was adorned in a gold leaf and vine motif

Glamour: The American Horror Story veteran went with a soft makeup palette as she left swept her golden locks off to the side of her youthful face
He won Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy for his portrayal of Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live.

And Alec Baldwin, 59, looked proud to be standing alongside his gorgeous wife Hilaria, 33, on the red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles before taking home his big award of the night.

But at the other end of the evening, the pair emerged looking a little more disheveled, with Alec offering his wife his blazer as they made their way to their limo.

Scroll down for video

Big night: Alec Baldwin, 59, offers his wife Hilaria, 33, his jacket as they emerge from post-Emmy dinner after his Supporting Actor in a Comedy win... and order a bottle of wine for the limo

The funnyman, who has received rave reviews for portraying the President on the sketch comedy show, went for a post ceremony dinner with his wife and his SNL castmates at Madeo.

He also ordered a bottle of wine - which had his name emblazoned across it - for the journey home, with it being delivered to the limo.

Stripped down to just his shirtsleeves and braces, Alec strolled out of the restaurant, with Hilaria concentrating intently on where she was walking.

They looked a far cry from when they arrived, preened and ready for the night ahead of them.

Long night: At the other end of the evening, the pair emerged looking a little more disheveled, with Alec offering his wife his blazer as they made their way to their limo

After party: Alec Baldwin went out for dinner at Madeo Restaurant In Beverly Hills With Hilaria Baldwin and the SNL cast

A toast: He also ordered a bottle of wine - which had his name emblazoned across it - for the journey home, with it being delivered to the limo

Celebrating: The funnyman, who has received rave reviews for portraying the President on the sketch comedy show, went for a post ceremony dinner with his wife and his SNL castmates at Madeo

He had looked dapper in a crisp black tuxedo, standing beside his beautiful wife on the red carpet.

The duo made a handsome pair with Alec's silver hair styled to perfection.

For her part, Hilaria looked ravishing in a silver strapless gown with a green and yellow floral pattern splashed throughout the entire gown.

She wore her shiny brunette hair parted down the center and blown out into perfect, loose waves around her shoulders.

Her makeup was done to perfection showing off her naturally beautiful features while adding just a touch of glamour.

Winner: He had looked dapper in a crisp black tuxedo, standing beside his beautiful wife on the red carpet

Alec Baldwin, 59, looked proud to be standing alongside his gorgeous wife Hilaria, 33, on the red carpet before taking home Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy

Perfect pair: Standing beside his beautiful wife on the red carpet, the duo made a handsome pair with Alec's silver hair styled to perfection

Stunning! Hilaria looked ravishing in a silver strapless gown with a green and yellow floral pattern splashed throughout the entire gown

Photo time! The actor documented the evening by posting a selfie in the car on the way to the Microsoft Center

The beautiful fitness star accessorized with large hoop earrings and wore big diamonds on both her hands.

The mom of three young children was no doubt enjoying her date night with her husband, sans kids.

Alec looked calm despite the fact that he was up for a big award.

SNL tied Westworld for the most Emmy nominations of the night with 22 each.

Proud husband: The mom of three young children was no doubt enjoying her date night with her husband, sans kids

Winner! Alec beat out Veep's Tony Hale and Matt Walsh, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt's Tituss Burgess, Baskets' Louie Anderson and Modern Family's Ty Burrell for the honor

Keeping it PG: Upon taking the stage, Alec immediately made a reference to Trump, saying: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

It appeared Alec's cool exterior was justified as the talented screen star won for his part on the extremely popular SNL.

Alec beat out Veep's Tony Hale and Matt Walsh, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt's Tituss Burgess, Baskets' Louie Anderson and Modern Family's Ty Burrell for the honor.

Upon taking the stage, Alec immediately made a reference to Trump, saying: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'

He didn't stay on the subject of American's President for long though.

Proud daughter: Alec's oldest daughter Ireland was watching from home, proudly sharing photos of her father's acceptance speech on social media

Close relationship: She added a photo of her dad accepting his award with a heart, showing her support

He continued: 'When you die, you don't remember a bill that congress passed or a decision the Supreme Court made or an address made by the President. You remember a song, you remember a line from a movie, you remember a play, you remember a book, a painting, a poem,' he said.

'What we do is important and for all of you out there in motion pictures and television, don't stop doing what you are doing, the audience is counting on you.'

Alec's oldest daughter Ireland was watching from home, proudly sharing photos of her father's acceptance speech on social media.

Big boss: The couple posed next to SNL creator Lorne Michaels
It's thanks to television viewers that she has a successful and remarkably well-paid career.

But Big Little Lies star Shailene Woodley insists that she does not watch the medium. Indeed, she claims, she does not even own a television.

'Im a reader. So I always read, so I always read a book instead of turning on my TV,' she insisted as she walked the red carpet.

Scroll down for video

Looking swell: Shailene Woodley stunned when she hit the Emmys red carpet at Los Angeles' Microsoft Theater in a cleavage-baring backless pine green Ralph Lauren grown

And Shailene has no time for those that do. 'All my friends who watch TV, I always just ask them when they have time to.'

And she further explained, according to The Hollywood Reporter: 'I haven't had a TV since I moved out of my parents' house when I was 18.'

Despite her own dislike of TV, Shailene has found success on the small screen.

Her show had six nominations for televised Emmys Sunday night.

Aglow: While on the red carpet, she dished to Jason Kennedy of E! News that she neither watches TV nor owns a TV set, according to the Washington Post

The 25-year-old was herself nominated Sunday for Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie - but lost to her Big Little Lies co-star Laura Dern.

The Ralph Lauren gown she wore custom-made, according to Pret-A-Reporter, which noted her stylist was Ilaria Urbinati.

Her red carpet ensemble was cinched-in tightly at the waistline and pleated below it, with a hemline that hit the floor.

The sleeveless dress' plunging neckline fell to her midriff.

'I'm a reader': She insisted: 'So I always read, so I always read a book instead of turning on my TV'

- If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Unplugged: According to The Hollywood Reporter , she'd also revealed on the red carpet that 'I haven't had a TV since I moved out of my parents' house when I was 18'

Shailene, whose hair was a mousy brown on Big Little Lies but has been its current blonde color since late July, had tied her locks into a ponytail.

Her fingernails were black, and she'd accessorized with a bracelet and two rings, all from Alexis Bittar.

As the awards show got going, Shailene took the stage with her Big Little Lies co-stars Laura, Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman and Zoe Kravitz to present the first prize of the night.

That trophy, which was for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series, went to John Lithgow for his portrayal of Winston Churchill on Netflix' The Crown.

Only the best: The Ralph Lauren gown she'd got on was custom-made, according to Pret-A-Reporter, which noted her stylist was Ilaria Urbinati

Touch of glitz: Her fingernails were black, and she'd accessorized with a bracelet and two rings, all of which were from Alexis Bittar

Close, but no cigar: Shailene was herself nominated Sunday for Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie - but lost to her Big Little Lies co-star Laura Dern

Nicole stunned in a sleeveless red dress hemmed slightly above her ankle, allowing for a full view of her ankle-strap heels.

Reese showed off her knockout legs in a full-sleeved blue outfit cut off at mid-thigh.

Zoe was a scene-stealer in a heavily frilled busty dress that, below the waist, was pink, orange and yellow.

Quintet: As the awards show got going, Shailene took the stage with her Big Little Lies co-stars (from left) Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura and Zoe Kravitz

First prize of the night: They presented Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama to John Lithgow for his portrayal of Winston Churchill on Netflix' The Crown

Chic as ever: Nicole stunned in a sleeveless red dress hemmed slightly above her ankle, allowing for a full view of her ankle-strap heels

While accepting her own award onstage, Laura extended her gratitude to Reese, Nicole, Zoe and Shailene: 'I share this with my tribe of four ladies.'

After Laura got her prize, another big win came for Big Little Lies - that of Alexander Skarsgard for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Limited Series Or Movie.

Just as Shailene and Laura were nominated against one another, so are Nicole and Reese.

Those latter two blondes, who are both producers on Big Little Lies as well, will be facing off for Outstanding Lead Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie.

Big Little Lies has also been nominated for Outstanding Limited Series.

When you got it: Reese showed off her knockout legs in a full-sleeved blue outfit cut off at mid-thigh

Eye-catching: Zoe was a scene-stealer in a heavily frilled busty dress that, below the waist, was pink, orange and yellow

Gracious: While accepting her own award onstage, Laura extended her gratitude to Reese, Nicole, Zoe and Shailene: 'I share this with my tribe of four ladies'
She couldn't keep her hands off her husband Keith Urban as they walked the red carpet together.

But it was Nicole Kidman's fictional Big Little Lies husband Alexander Skarsgard who received the full force of her affection after he won an Emmy on Sunday night.

After Alexander left the stage, the Australian actress gave her co-star a kiss on the lips - in full view of Keith, who was standing behind her.

Scroll down for video

That's not your husband! After Alexander Skarsgard (right) won an Emmy for his role in Big Little Lies, co-star Nicole Kidman (centre) gave him a kiss on the lips... as real-life husband Keith Urban (left) watched on beside them

The 41-year-old actor had just nabbed the outstanding supporting actor in a limited series or movie award for his role in the hit series where he starred alongside Nicole.

As he accepted the award, Alexander used the opportunity to thank his mostly female co-stars including Nicole as well as Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz and Laura Dern.

'Thank you for making this boy feel like one of the girls,' the dapper Swedish actor said in his acceptance speech.

Affectionate! Keith didn't seem to mind his wife was kissing another man

That's one way to say congratulations: Nicole kissed Alexander, who played her husband in Big Little Lies

Getting touchy-feely: Nicole couldn't contain her excitement about Alexander's win and tenderly touched his face after he left the stage

Seemingly grateful for the inclusion in his speech, Nicole couldn't contain her excitement about Alexander's win.

As he left the stage, Nicole fondly touched her co-star's face and planted a kiss on his lips.

Far from appearing jealous, Nicole's real-life husband Keith was unperturbed by his wife's display of affection with another man and could be seen smiling and clapping as he stood beside the pair.

Not the jealous type! As Nicole smooched her co-star, Keith smiled and clapped

Pucker up! Nicole locked lips with husband Keith after winning her Emmy award

Earlier in the night, Nicole and Keith - who have been married since 2006 - put on their own amorous display.

The dazzling couple were snapped holding hands, tenderly touching one another and gazing into each other's eyes as they happily posed for photos.

Nicole, dressed in a stunning Calvin Klein scarlet frock with plunging neckline, also cosied up to her co-stars from her hit HBO show, Big Little Lies.

A kiss for his queen: Keith planted several smooches on his wife on the red carpet

Star-studded cast: Big Little Lies co-stars Shailene Woodley, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern and Zoe Kravitz (pictured from left) took to the stage at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards

Winning women: The strong female-fronted cast won big at the awards ceremony
She didn't take home the Emmy for her performance in Feud.

But actress Jackie Hoffman, 56, put on quite the show when she lost to Big Little Lies Laura Dern, 50, Sunday night at the 69th Emmy Awards, screaming out loud before posting a series of tongue-in-cheek tweets.

When Laura's name was announced as the winner for her portrayal of Renata Klein on the HBO show, the camera showed the other nominees.

Scroll down for video

Sore loser? Actress Jackie Hoffman put on quite the show when she lost to Big Little Lies Laura Dern Sunday night at the 69th Emmy Awards, screaming 'Dammit' to the cameras

No sense of humor: Jackie, who is known for her dry humor was most likely kidding, although many took her seriously, chastising her for her reaction

Jackie was shown yelling 'damn it' over and over, seemingly agitated and no realizing the camera was on her.

Laura also beat Judy Davis from Feud: Bette and Joan, Regina King for American Crime, Michelle Pfeiffer for her role in The Wizard of Lies and Big Little Lies co-star Shailene Woodley.

Jackie, who is known for her dry humor was most likely kidding, although many took her seriously, chastising her for her reaction.

The funny actress, who was nominated for playing Mamacita in Ryan Murphy's FX series, was also busy tweeting during the ceremony, following up her outburst with a barrage of tongue-in-cheek tweets.

Best moment of the #Emmys so far: Jackie Hoffman yelling "dammit!!" when she lost to Laura Dern pic.twitter.com/euCWaRFsAy  Adam Feldman (@FeldmanAdam) September 18, 2017

Unhappy: Jackie can be seen yelling 'dammit' over and over, seemingly agitated and forgetting the camera was on her

Shock! Jackie appears completely shocked and disgruntled when Dern was announced as the winner

'Laura Dern had famous parents. Forgive me for being from real people,' she began.

Dern is the daughter of actors Diane Ladd and Bruce Dern.

She added: 'I hear that Laura Dern runs a child porn ring.'

The famous stand up comedian's Twitter bio even reads 'http://I'm kidding,' so it's assumed fans should not take her seriously.

It's more than likely Hoffman was joking and it was part of a spoof, channeling Joan Crawford's own spitefulness at the 1963 Academy Awards.

'Laura Dern had famous parents. Forgive me for being from real people,' she began in her tweet against Dern, who is the daughter of actors Diane Ladd and Bruce Dern

String of insults: Playing the character from the spoof she started in August, Jackie tweeted out a barrage of clearly false insults at Dern after she won

She's known for her wit: It's more than likely Hoffman was joking and it was part of a spoof, channeling Joan Crawford's own spitefulness at the 1963 Academy Awards

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

As depicted in Hoffman's show Feud, Crawford responded to being snubbed for a nomination that year by calling every single other nominee and offering to accept the award on their behalf if they couldn't make it to the ceremony.

Her rival and co-star Bette Davis was nominated when she was not.

Anne Bancroft ended up winning and didn't attend the ceremony, so Joan upstaged Bette by having her time in the limelight.

Jackie started the entire spoof weeks ago when she released a video of herself calling all of the other nominees offering to accept on their behalf if they could not make it.

She even adopted the tone and affect of Joan Crawford from the series.

Long-running joke: Jackie started the entire spoof weeks ago when she released a video of herself calling all of the other nominees offering to accept on their behalf if they could not make it
She gave birth to her first daughter Poppy in January this year.

And Phoebe Burgess showed off her stunning post-pregnancy figure in a red bikini on Monday.

Taking to Instagram, the wife of rugby league star Sam Burgess posted a picture of the couple's idyllic getaway in Fiji.

Yummy Mummy! Phoebe Burgess flaunts her toned tummy in red bikini during trip to Fiji just months after giving birth to first daughter Poppy

'BULLA,' she captioned, along with a heart emoji.

Showing off her toned tummy, the blonde beauty flaunted her figure in a sporty red two-piece featuring bikini bottoms and a tank-style top.

She also sported a wide-brimmed straw hat to shield her face from the sunshine.



A well-deserved break: The lovebirds are currently holidaying while Sam has time off from the rugby league season after his team, the South Sydney Rabbitohs , failed to make the finals this year

A bundle of joy: Following the birth of daughter Poppy, eight months, the pair have been busy being full time parents

The lovebirds are currently holidaying while Sam has time off from the rugby league season after his team, the South Sydney Rabbitohs, failed to make the finals this year.

Following the birth of daughter Poppy, eight months, the pair have been busy being full time parents.

Before their trip overseas, the smitten pair put on a stylish display while attending Stakes Day at Royal Randwick Racecourse.

Smitten: Before their trip overseas, the smitten pair put on a stylish display while attending Stakes Day at Royal Randwick Racecourse

Phoebe was seen wearing an 80s-inspired outfit that included a white blazer with black buttons that was colour-matched with a wide-brimmed hat.

She completed the monochrome ensemble with breezy wide-leg pants and black-and-white heels.

The yummy mummy let her luscious golden tresses down into a loose wave.

Meanwhile, Sam looked sharp in a checked blazer, on top of a light blue shirt and red tie.
The Block is a tough competition, with everyone hoping to make the big bucks come auction day.

And on Monday's episode of the show, Ronnie and Georgia won the buyer's jury prize, after buyer's advocates toured the homes of the contestants.

The married couple left the judges thoroughly impressed and won $10,000 in the process, which prompted villain Ronnie to confide: 'We just celebrated very quietly cause no one else really wanted to celebrate that!'

Scroll down for video

'No one else really wanted to celebrate that!' The Block villains Ronnie and Georgia (pictured) win $10,000 as buyer's advocates are impressed with their house

Georgia added that things are awkward every time winners are revealed.

Ronnie and Georgia scored 25.5 points from buyer's advocates Greville, Frank and Nicole.

The pair beat Josh and Elyse by just half a point, no doubt a good feeling for Ronnie and Georgia, who have been beaten in a few challenges by just half a point.

Ouch: Wombat (L) and Sticks (R) got SLAMMED for their decor and styling

So close! Ronnie and Georgia beat Josh and Elyse (seen) by just half a point

Coming third was Jason and Sarah on 23 points, while Hannah and Clint finished on 21.5 points.

Coming last was Wombat and Sticks on 20 points, who were told they desperately need to restyle their home as they will struggle to get buyers on auction day.

Conversely, Ronnie and Georgia were told their house and styling felt 'cohesive' and their kitchen was 'sleek and modern.'

They were advised that adding a large study to their home would maximise their profits on auction day.

Making a comeback: Coming third was Jason and Sarah (pictured) on 23 points

Hannah and Clint received criticism for lacking a large fridge in their kitchen, while their three small kitchens were labelled a 'disaster.'

Josh and Elyse impressed with their spacious study, with Frank saying their kitchen, living and dining areas are the best he's seen.

Jason and Sarah were told they need to dramatically improve their master bedroom and ensuite in order to make it more luxe and attract millionaire buyers.

Sticks and Wombat had their 'contrasting styles' and 'blokey feel' slated.

Room for improvement: Hannah and Clint (seen) were slammed for their lack of a large fridge in their kitchen, with their three small kitchens being called a 'disaster'

Feedback: Sticks and Wombat were slammed for their 'contrasting styles' and 'blokey feel'

Greville said the boys 'missed the mark' and appear confused as to who their target buyers are.

He told them to 'keep it simple' and to soften the area.

He then added that he doesn't want to show his buyers their house 'at all', while Nicole said she can't think of a buyer who would want the property.

Meanwhile, they were slammed for their tiny study and for the clashing cupboards and splash back in their kitchen.

Despite all the criticism, the buyer's advocates also said they thought the house can be saved.
Her show Big Little Lies scooped up six Primetime Emmys on Sunday.

And Zoe Kravitz was a showstopper as she posed up a storm in a colorful dress on the red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

The actress, 28, was joined by her dashing actor boyfriend Karl Glusman, who she's been dating since last October, as she enjoyed a successful night for the HBO drama.

Scroll down for video

Bold and bright: Zoe Kravitz was a showstopper as she posed up a storm in a colorful dress on the red carpet at the Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles

The star's eye-popping Dior dress was covered in rainbow-colored feathers, and was black above the waist.

The sleeveless number featured a cleavage-baring neckline that fell to her midriff, and she'd glitzed up the look with a double-necklace and earrings.

Below the waist, the dress faded from rose pink to orange to salmon to yellow at the front, with a few other colors at the back.

Cute couple: The actress, 28, was joined by her dashing actor boyfriend Karl Glusman, who she's been dating since last October, as she enjoyed a successful night for the HBO drama

Fabulous in feathers! The star's eye-popping Dior dress was covered in rainbow-colored feathers, and was black above the waist

Red carpet moment: Below the waist, the dress faded from rose pink to orange to salmon to yellow at the front, with a few other colors at the back

Neon Demon star Karl was classically elegant in a black suit and black tie, draping an arm around his girlfriend as they posed on the red carpet.

Though Zoe - daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet - wasn't a nominee that night, she did see three of her Big Little Lies cast-mates collect trophies onstage.

The first was Laura Dern for Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie, beating out a category that included her co-star Shailene Woodley.

Glam: The sleeveless number featured a cleavage-baring neckline that fell almost to her midriff, and she'd glitzed up the look with a double-necklace and earrings

As Laura headed up to the stage, her competitor Jackie Hoffman - nominated for playing Mamacita on Feud: Bette And Joan - was seen yelling: 'Dammit!'

Alexander Skarsgard went on to win Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Limited Series Or Movie.

Finally, Nicole Kidman won Outstanding Lead Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie - also beating one of her co-stars, in this case Reese Witherspoon.

Swanky: It was Zoe's big moment in the spotlight as she attended with her Big Little Lies co-stars

Victory: Zoe's show Big Little Lies scooped up six Primetime Emmys on Sunday

Nicole and Reese had also been producers on the show, so they both got to take the stage together when the show won Outstanding Limited Series.

Not that Zoe was deprived of her moment in the spotlight - she joined Reese, Nicole, Laura and Shailene onstage to deliver the first prize of the evening.

That award, for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama, went to John Lithgow for his portrayal of Winston Churchill on the Netflix show The Crown.

Quintet: Zoe was joined by her Big Little Lies co-stars (from left) Shailene Woodley, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern onstage near the beginning of the show

First prize of the evening: They presented the award for Outstanding Actor In A Drama Series to John Lithgow for his portrayal of Winston Churchill on the Netflix series The Crown
She's the former Sunrise weather producer and wife to Australia's much-loved Grant Denyer, 40.

And days after revealing her husband was only home for six weeks in a year, Cheryl Denyer has opened up about the couple's plans for more children.

Speaking to TV Week on Monday, the mum to daughters Sailor, six, and Scout, two, said Grant would love a son.

Scroll down for videos

Growing their family! On Monday, mum to Sailor, six, and Scout, two, Cheryl Denyer revealed her and husband Grant were thinking of expanding their brood

'He'd love a little boy running around the house,' she said.

'Grant's an amazing dad, and we've spoken about it, so who knows.'

While Cheryl spends her time living on her 27 acre farm just outside of Bathurst, Grant juggles hosting Family Feud, which is taped in Melbourne, along with his racing obligations.

Looking for a boy! 'Grant's an amazing dad, and we've spoken about it, so who knows'

Speaking to New Idea last week, Cheryl said that due to Grant's tight schedule, she only saw her husband 42 days in 2016.

'Last year Grant was only home six weeks out of the whole year - with all his motor racing and TV commitments - so it wasn't long,' she said.

And it seems Cheryl isn't the only one missing Grant with young Sailor and Scout also longing for daddy-daughter time as well.

Longing daddy-daughter time: Taking to Instagram late last month, Grant uploaded an adorable photo of his two girls holding up a piece of paper which read: 'We love you Daddy we miss you'

Not much time together: Speaking to New Idea last week, Cheryl revealed due to Grant's tight schedule, she only saw her husband 42 days in 2016

Daddy's girl! Although he may not be home much of the year, it is evident that when he is at home with his family, he soaks up all the time he can get, seen letting his daughters paint his toenails

Taking to Instagram late last month, Grant uploaded an adorable photo of his two girls holding up a piece of paper which read: 'We love you Daddy we miss you.'

'One more sleep girls!!' he captioned.

Although he may not be home much of the year, it is evident that when he is at home with his family, he soaks up all the time he can get, seen letting his daughters paint his toenails and reading them stories in bed.
The VH1 Hip Hop Honors bash welcomed a string of celebs at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

Airing on Monday night, the annual awards show is dedicated this year to The 90's Game Changers.

Guests included Karrueche Tran, 29, who evoked Madonna's Blond Ambition tour in a black cone bra attached to suspenders.

Eye-catching: The VH1 Hip Hop Honors bash welcomed a string of celebs at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Sunday night - among them Karrueche Tran

Those suspenders held up a pair of brightly multicolored pants covered in splashy designs - including Betty Boop.

Karrueche stunned in a pair of hoop earrings and multiple gleaming bracelets.

She balanced on a pair of black heels at the event, which played host to such famous names as Blac Chyna.

There's Betty Boop on the pants: Karrueche, 29, evoked Madonna's Blond Ambition tour in a black cone bra attached to suspenders

Chyna, who like Karrueche is 29, left her bright yellow jacket open to her midriff, providing a generous view of her cleavage.

Her hair was in blonde braids and she'd draped herself in jewelry, including multiple necklaces and bracelets and a pair of hoops.

Chyna had on skintight black trousers, plus black and white sneakers with white socks.

Posing up a storm: Blac Chyna, who like Karrueche is 29, left her bright yellow jacket open to her midriff, providing a generous view of her cleavage

Glitz: Her hair was in blonde braids and she'd draped herself in jewelry, including multiple necklaces and bracelets and a pair of hoops

Step lively: Chyna had on skintight black trousers, plus black and white sneakers with white socks

Kelly Rowland's hoops and necklaces matched her sleeveless silver gown, which fell to the floor and had a plunging neckline.

Monica's half-sleeved grey checked blazer matched a cocktail dress she'd worn underneath it.

She'd glitzed up the look with a choker and a massive glistening bracelet, balancing on thigh-high black stiletto boots.

She looks divine: Kelly Rowland's hoops and necklaces matched her sleeveless silver gown, which fell to the floor and had a plunging neckline

Coordinated: Monica's half-sleeved grey checked blazer matched a cocktail dress she'd worn underneath it

Lil' Kim had worn a sheer black coat over the tiny black bodysuit she'd slid into that night.

That coat was cinched around her waist by an intricately patterned floral piece of corsetry, which was complimented by a flower motif on her stilettos.

Remy Ma was the image of chic in a bright pink high-low skirt with a frilly hem.

Swank: Remy Ma was the image of chic in a bright pink high-low skirt with a frilly hem

So stylish: Angel Brinks (left) dazzled in an eye-popping and shining multicolored ensemble - including sparkling red boots - and NeNe Leakes (right) rocked a Gucci T-shirt

Her blazer-esque top featured a massive white lapel that matched the white polka dots speckled across its black background.

Angel Brinks dazzled in an eye-popping and shining multicolored ensemble - including sparkling red boots - and NeNe Leakes rocked a Gucci T-shirt.

Faith Evans wore an autumnal pantsuit with orange floral patterns strewn across a black field, and she'd slid into black open-toed shoes.

Fab in florals: Lil' Kim had worn a sheer black coat over the tiny black bodysuit she'd slid into that night

Hand at the waist: That coat was cinched around her waist by an intricately patterned floral piece of corsetry, which was complimented by a flower motif on her stilettos

Glowing: Faith Evans wore an autumnal pantsuit with orange floral patterns strewn across a black field, and she'd slid into black open-toed shoes

Missy Elliott was booked to open up the evening's show, which honored such names as Martin Lawrence, Mariah Carey, Master P and Jermaine Dupri, according to VH1.

Jermaine wore a black, white and salmon floral jacket casually over his shoulders. Otherwise, he was dressed in black.

He posed at Paramount Studios with his Alessandro Michele collaborator Da Brat.

T.I. wore a yellow jacket over a black top, torn jeans and black shoes.

Dynamic duo: Jermaine Dupri, one of the evening's honorees, posed with his Alessandro Michele collaborator Da Brat

Ageless beauty: T.I. wore a yellow jacket over a black top, torn jeans and black shoes

The day before Chyna headed to the Paramount Theater, her ex-fiance Rob Kardashian posted a sweet social media photo of their daughter Dream Kardashian.

Little Dream, who was born last November, is seen smiling at the camera as she sits on what appears to be a dining table.

Rob's captioned the photo: 'my twin' with an emoji that was crying from laughter.
Despite her young age she's no stranger to designer brands.

And on Monday, Roxy Jacenko's six-year-old daughter, Pixie Curtis, showcased her brand new Ray-Ban Aviators, worth $100.

Roxy, 37, shared a selfie with her little girl while they enjoyed an outing on the weekend, where Pixie and her brother Hunter, three, wore matching $850 Givenchy outfits.

Scroll down for video

'Growing up so fast!' Roxy Jacenko poses up for a sweet selfie with daughter Pixie, six, who wears $100 Ray-Ban Aviators

'Growing up so fast,' Roxy captioned the shot, with the PR guru adding a love heart emoticon.

In the picture, Roxy and Pixie both wear designer sunglasses and smile for the camera.

On the day, Roxy was dressed in a chic white Miu Miu T-shirt, while she dressed her children in matching Givenchy outfits worth a whopping $850.

For the love of fashion! Pixie and brother Hunter, three, wore matching $850 Givenchy outfits on the weekend

The family - including Roxy's husband Oliver Curtis - enjoyed a day out shopping at Sydney's Birkenhead Point.

It's believed Pixie bought her new shades from Sunglass Hut in the shopping centre, after which she posted a sweet picture of her and brother Hunter wearing their new sunnies.

'New shades,' part of Roxy's post read.

Adorable! It's believed Pixie bought her new shades from Sunglass Hut in the shopping centre, after which she posted a sweet picture of her and brother Hunter wearing their new sunnies

Budding business chick! Pixie also has her own range of hair accessories called Pixie's Bows

Last month, Pixie received a stunning necklace from Shannakian Fine Jewellery.

The little one recently turned six and celebrated her birthday with a lavish party at Nubo Play's activity centre in Alexandria.

A budding entrepreneur, Pixie also has her own range of hair accessories called Pixie's Bows.
It was a noticeably bigger Christian Bale who took his young son, Joseph, to a park in LA's Brentwood neighborhood on Sunday.

The 43-year-old actor has been gaining weight for his role as former Vice President Dick Cheney in the upcoming biopic, Backseat.

But Christian was fully focused on his role as dad over the weekend, when he stepped out with his three-year-old son.

Gaining weight: It was a noticeably bigger Christian Bale who took his young son, Joseph, to a park in LA's Brentwood neighborhood on Sunday

Strolling hand-in-hand through the park, the English actor led the youngster over to the swings, where he proceeded to give him a push.

The little boy appeared to have been thoroughly enjoying himself, smiling widely as his dad pushed him high.

Christian was later seen playfully pouring fistfuls of sand over the young boy as he rolled around in the sand.

The American Psycho star kept a watchful eye on Joseph as he climbed on top of a tree stump.

Hands-on dad: Strolling hand-in-hand through the park, the English actor led Joseph over to the swings

Child's play: The little boy appeared to have been thoroughly enjoying himself, smiling widely as his dad pushed him

On the rise... Christian was seen pulling the swing far back as he pushed the young boy from up high

Buried under: The actor was later seen playfully pouring fistfuls of sand over the young boy as he rolled around in the sand

Christian is also dad to a 12-year-old daughter, Emmaline, with his wife of 17 years, Sibi Blazic, 47.

Both the actor and Joseph were dressed casually for the outing, with the young boy quickly taking off his blue Nike sneakers to run around barefoot.

He also wore grey shorts and a long-sleeve black T-shirt printed with a punk teddy bear on the front.

Up and down: It's not the first time the actor has changed his appearance for a role. He famously slimmed down to just 120 pounds for his role in 2004's The Machinist (left), and gained weight for his 2013 role as a conman in American Hustle (right)

Meanwhile, Christian stepped out in baggy green cargo pants, which he wore with a loose black T-shirt.

He also donned grey sneakers.

It's not the first time the actor has changed his appearance for a role.

He famously slimmed down to just 120 pounds for his role in 2004's The Machinist, and gained weight for his 2013 role as a conman in American Hustle.

Watch your step... The American Psycho star kept a watchful eye on Joseph as he climbed on top of a tree stump

Life of pie... Speaking about his latest weight gain, Christian hinted he's been having a lot of fun bulking up for the upcoming role. 'Ive just been eating a lot of pies,' he said

Doting dad: Christian is also dad to a 12-year-old daughter, Emmaline, with his wife of 17 years, Sibi Blazic

Speaking about his latest weight gain, Christian hinted he's been having a lot of fun bulking up for the upcoming role.

'Ive just been eating a lot of pies,' he told Variety earlier this month.

The film is currently in pre-production and features an all-star cast, including Amy Adams, Steve Carell, Sam Rockwell and Bill Pullman.
She's gearing up for the premiere of her Bachelorette series this week.

And on Monday, Sophie Monk could not wipe the smile of her face whilst taking a phone call in Brisbane.

Potentially talking to her winning suitor, the 37-year-old was spotted beaming with glee whilst completing her media rounds.

Who's on the phone? The Bachelorette's Sophie Monk can't wipe the smile off her face as she has an animated call ahead of the show's premiere

Sophie wore a flirty patterned shirt for the busy day.

Featuring bell sleeves, the ensemble was held together by black straps that were tied up on her shoulder.

The blonde bombshell teamed her look with a pair of dark grey leather look skinny jeans.

Happy: Potentially talking to her winning suitor, the 37-year-old was spotted beaming with glee whilst completing her media rounds

Animated call: Holding her iPhone up to her ear, Sophie's face lit up and she flashed her pearly whites

Adding an extra wow factor, Sophie teamed her ensemble with a pair of blue heels.

Her signature platinum blonde locks were styled out and straight with her dark roots on display.

Letting her bold outfit do the talking, Ten's newest reality star kept her makeup minimal.

'Oh crap my pants. I just got handed the rose baton': Getting ready for Wednesday's Bachelorette premiere, Sophie took to Instagram over the weekend to reveal she was nervous for the show to start

Holding her iPhone up to her ear, Sophie's face lit up and she flashed her pearly whites.

Getting ready for Wednesday's Bachelorette premiere, Sophie took to Instagram over the weekend to reveal she was nervous for the show to start.

'Oh crap my pants. I just got handed the rose baton from @matthewdavidjohnson #herewego,' she captioned the photoshoot.
She was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in HBO series Westworld.

But Thandie Newton looked every inch the leading lady when she wowed on the 69th annual Emmys red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The actress, 44, was a vision in her dusty pink strapless ball gown, joined by her glamorous mum Nyasha Newton who slipped into a deep purple floor length dress.

Scroll down for video

Out of this world: Westworld's Thandie Newton was supported by her mum Nyasha Newton on the 69th annual Emmys red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday

Westworld star Thandie dazzled as the delicate jewels, which adorned the billowing skirt of her dress, reflected the glimmering spotlight at the A-list affair.

Cinched at the waist, the impressive fairytale gown best showcased the English born beauty's incredibly slender figure.

For the finishing touches of glamour, the acting sensation scooped her raven tresses into a top knot bun to show off her eye-catching dangling earrings.

It's all relative! The actress, 44, was a vision in her dusty pink strapless ball gown, joined by her glamorous mum Nyasha Newton who slipped into a deep purple floor length dress

Glamorous as ever: Westworld star Thandie dazzled as the delicate jewels, which adorned the billowing skirt of her dress, reflected the glimmering spotlight at the A-list affair

She's a vision: Cinched at the waist, the impressive fairytale gown best showcased the English born beauty's incredibly slender figure

Sensational beauty: The TV queen proved her beauty has stood the test of time, accentuating her features with smokey eye make-up and a dash of lipstick to plump out her pout

The television queen proved her beauty has stood the test of time, accentuating her features with smokey eye make-up and a dash of lipstick to plump out her pout.

Mixing up her look, Thandie toted a black clutch which was a striking contrast to her dusty pink attire.

She received a Emmy nomination for her supporting role as brothel madam and sentient android Maeve Millay in Westworld.

Stylish girl: She mixed up her look, toting a glittering black clutch to contrast with her dusty pink gown

She's a diamond: The acting sensation scooped her raven tresses into a top knot bun to show off her dangling earrings

Star-studded: She received a Emmy nomination for her supporting role as brothel madam and sentient android Maeve Millay in Westworld

Storytelling: The hit HBO sci-fi series transports viewers to a futuristic world where thrill-seekers live out their fantasies - no matter how dark - at a robot theme park

Next time: However, Thandie lost out on the prize for Outstanding Supporting Actress to Ann Dowd for her part in The Handmaid's Tale

The hit HBO sci-fi series transports viewers to a futuristic world where thrill-seekers live out their fantasies - no matter how dark - at a robot theme park.

But Ann Dowd scooped the prize for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her part in the television adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novel The Handmaid's Tale.

Thandie's stunning mum Nyasha supported her daughter on the red carpet at the showbiz bash.

Posing up a storm: She joined Susan Sarandon on the red carpet, who donned a black gown

The princess of the Shona tribe in Zimbabwe looked every inch of royalty when she put her incredible figure on display in the form-fitting floor length purple gown.

Going for glitter, Nyasha toted a dazzling clutch handbag which brought out the glittering jewels which decorated the neckline of her evening attire.

The nurse touched up her age-defying beauty with heavy eye make-up and a slick of deep pink lipstick.

Glitterball: She was also in the good company of fellow actress Sarah Paulson who donned a metallic floor length dress

Wow: Thandie joined the great and the good of the showbiz television world including the likes of Nicole Kidman and Kevin Spacey

Thandie was also in the good company of fellow actresses Susan Sarandon and Sarah Paulson later in the evening.

The star-studded bash was attended by the good and the great of the television world including Nicole Kidman, Claire Foy and Kevin Spacey.

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access.

It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.
A new season of The Bachelorette will hit screens on Wednesday and it looks set to be the most successful series yet.

Sponsors have already been jumping at the chance to be involved with the hit reality dating show and so far, they are some of the most unique it's ever had before.

Familiar products such as Maybelline New York will return (and with a New York-inspired date will feature in the series) but some of the other sponsor products have raised eyebrows.

From underwear to dating websites and even contact lenses: The Bachelorette has a bizarre list of sponsors for its Sophie Monk season

Mumbrella reported on Monday that some of the world's most recognisable brands have been locked in to advertise their products on the show.

This includes Mitsubishi which has hopped on board to transport Sophie and the eligible bachelors in between dates.

One of the more surprising inclusions is disposable contact lense company Dailies Total 1.

Speaking to Mumbrella, the channel's executive general manager Rod Prosser explained that Sophie Monk is a defining factor into why so many brands have thrown their support behind the show.

'Sophie's funny, honest and endearing qualities, along with the success of the much-loved franchise and the show's committed fan-base, has seen interest in the series at an all-time high...' Rod told the publication.

'Sophie's funny, honest and endearing qualities has seen interest in the series at an all-time high' Channel 10 says commercial interest in high for this season because of its star

Ten has had a difficult year so far.

The channel announced it had gone into voluntary administration back in June following a $232 million half year loss.

With American television powerhouse CBS buying Ten in August, the network has been looking to attract more viewers and bolster its dwindling ratings.

So far, The Bachelor and The Bachelorette have proven to be series winners for the network.
Matthew Newton appears to have put his troubled past behind him after years of legal and personal issues.

And his mother, Australian TV veteran Patti Newton is said to be the 'happiest mum in the world' as he rubs shoulders with A-listers at the Toronto International Film Festival, where his latest film Who We Are Now has won critical acclaim.

A 'close friend' of Patty's told Woman's Day: 'To see him mixing with stars and well-respected industry people again has been a dream of hers and Bert's for years.'

'Happiest mum in the world': Patti Newton is said to be 'over the moon' as her son Matthew puts his troubled past behind him with critically-acclaimed new film

Bursting with pride! His appearance at the festival reportedly has his 72-year-old mother Patti (pictured) jumping for joy at his resurgence

His appearance at the festival reportedly has his 72-year-old mother jumping for joy at his resurgence.

'Patti is absolutely over the moon about Matt's triumphant appearance on the A-list,' the friend told the magazine.

Matthew's film - which stars Julianne Nicholson, Emma Roberts and Jimmy Smits - was called an 'exemplary indie drama' by Variety.

'He's in a good place': Patti told 3AW's Nightline that Matthew has 'never been happier'

'Patti is just so proud of how Matthew went about doing this film,' the friend said.

The revelation of Patti's pride comes after she spoke about her beloved son reaching a place of contentment earlier this month.

'He is in a very good place,' she told 3AW's Nightline program, but refused to weigh in on rumours he has tied the knot with fiancee Catherine Schneiderman.

Patti continued: 'If he is happy we are happy, and he is in a very good place, so what more could you want?'

'I have never known Matthew to be happier and we are happy that he is happy,' Patti said.

'I don't care what anyone says, if he is happy we are happy, and he is in a very good place, so what more could you want?'

Matthew relocated to the US in 2012, and is now believed to be leading a sober life.

He reportedly told a Sunday Telegraph insider in April this year, that he 'hasn't touched a drink in five years.'
She famously lasted just a few days in the jungle on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, quitting after suffering an emotional breakdown.

And Gemma Collins has now released horrifying images of the injuries she allegedly sustained at the hands of an ex-boyfriend just before jetting out to Australia to take part in the show in 2014.

The TOWIE star hopes her story will encourage other victims of domestic violence to go to the police, revealing her biggest regret is not pressing charges because she was 'too scared to see it through.'

Scroll down for video

Shocking attack: Gemma Collins has released horrifying images of the injuries she allegedly sustained at the hands of an ex-boyfriend just before jetting out to Australia to take part in the show in 2014

Gemma was beaten up and left with a bloodied head and hands, as the shocking images - obtained by The Sun - show.

The Essex girl recalled how she was locked in her own flat and repeatedly kicked in the spine by her former flame in the terrifying alleged incident.

When her ex reportedly went into the bedroom to smash up her belongings, Gemma claims she managed to unlock the door and crawl into the hallway, where a concerned neighbour alerted the police.

She told The Sun's Bizarre column: 'I was really badly beaten. I was powerless. I should have pressed charges but I was in love with that person.

Speaking out: The TOWIE star hopes her story will encourage other victims of domestic violence to go to the police, revealing her biggest regret is not pressing charges because she was 'too scared to see it through.

She said: 'When he beat me enough to get me down on the floor then he didnt stop there. He locked me in my flat  he then repeatedly kicked me, kicked me, kicked me'

'When he beat me enough to get me down on the floor then he didnt stop there. He locked me in my flat  he then repeatedly kicked me, kicked me, kicked me'.

Gemma confessed that the experience has changed her relationships with men and still haunts her to this day.

She also admitted that she found it hard to move on from the romance - and the pair were still in touch after she left the jungle.

Can't move on: Gemma confessed that the experience has changed her relationships with men and still haunts her to this day

Her former partner has denied allegations that he assaulted her in 2014.

Gemma said: 'The mental and psychological side  I was still in love with this person but I knew what he did to me was really wrong. How do you press charges against someone that you love?'

The TV personality hopes that speaking out will help others walk away from abusive relationships before its too late.

She warned: 'If they do it once then they will do it again. I have never actually escaped that night. Even though I am speaking out I do fear for my life.'

MailOnline has contacted Gemma's representatives for comment.
He's known for his quick jibes and hilarious put-downs to his fellow co-presenters on Good Morning Britain.

And on Monday, Piers Morgan, 52, ribbed co-host Charlotte Hawkins, 42, for being 'boring', before hinting that the married presenter would fall victim to the Strictly curse as she is a contestant on the show.

His words followed her admission that she finds the sultry dance routines with Brendan Cole 'mortifying'.

Scroll down for video

Strictly ribbing: Piers Morgan, 52, ribbed Charlotte Hawkins, 42, for being 'boring', while she appeared on Good Morning Britain with him and Susanna Reid, 46, on Monday

During the show, Piers picked up the issue of the Mail's Weekend magazine, and began to joke about the infamous Strictly curse.

He said: 'In here some very intriguing detail of your burgeoning relationship with your partner Brendan Cole.'

Reading out her interview, he imitated her: 'You have to look deep into your partner's eyes, you sigh, it's the weirdest thing. My default is to start giggling, it's like being at the school dance.'

Embarrassed: The media personality delighted in teasing Charlotte - who is also a contestant on this years' Strictly - for her admission that she finds the sultry dance routines with Brendan Cole 'mortifying' in the latest issue of Daily Mail Weekend magazine

'Looks like things are progressing rather nicely,' he said, before adding: 'For the old curse.'

Cheeky Piers earlier began the segment by cutting over Charlotte, telling her 'you were boring me', prompting her to feign shock.

Charlotte has been married to Mark Herbert since 2008 and the pair have one child together, two-year-old Ella Rose. The Strictly curse refers to the breakdown of relationships as contestants perform sensual dance routines with their partners.

Charlotte explained she found it awkward dancing with Brendan: 'You have to look deep into your partner's eyes, you sigh, it's the weirdest thing. My default is to start giggling, it's like being at the school dance'

Not cursed: The Strictly curse refers to the breakdown of relationships as contestants perform sensual dance routines with their partners - but Charlotte was firm that the curse wouldn't affect her

There is of course nothing to suggest any romance between the pair.

Brendan famously began the so-called curse in 2004 with then partner - and fellow news presenter - Natasha Kaplinsky.

'Don't embarrass me!' Protested Charlotte, visibly cringing.

'I think as soon as you say to Piers Morgan "don't embarrass me"...' Laughed Susanna, hinting at his love of teasing his friends.

Hot contestant: Charlotte has been married to Mark Herbert since 2008 and the pair have one child together, two-year-old Ella Rose

After discussing the 69th Emmy Awards, which were held in Los Angeles on Sunday night, the trio turned their attention to the National Reality TV Awards, which are being held on Monday night.

Piers is nominated for the National reality TV awards Celebrity Personality of The Year, and noted that he and Susanna were nominated.

Piers couldn't resist ribbing Charlotte once again.

'Don't embarrass me!': Charlotte visibly cringed as she protested against Piers. 'I think as soon as you say to Piers Morgan "don't embarrass me"...' Laughed Susanna, hinting at his love of teasing his friends

'You weren't nominated because you have no personality,' he quipped to the blonde, causing her to sigh and roll her eyes.

He noted that one of the nominees was Ampika Pickston from the Real Housewives of Cheshire.

However, he mentioned he was worried about losing out to the reality star.

'Can you imagine losing the Celebrity Personality Award to a real housewife?' he laughed.
She's the PR queen who is always seen looking her best, no matter the situation.

And now, Roxy Jacenko has shared one of her secrets to her radiant, flawless complexion .

On Monday, the 37-year-old PR guru shared a rare behind-the-scenes photo of her receiving a bizarre-looking facial treatment in Sydney.

So that's how she does it! Roxy Jacenko shares a behind-the-scenes shot of her receiving a bizarre facial treatment in goggles and a hair net

Celebrity treatment: Roxy was seen having a 'Hollywood Laser Peel' facial, which she claimed is 'the favourite' of Kim Kardashian West and Angelina Jolie

Roxy was seen having a 'Hollywood Laser Peel' facial, which she claimed is 'the favourite' of Kim Kardashian West and Angelina Jolie.

The mother of two's blonde locks were swept back from her face and into a pink hairnet and she wore protective eye goggles for the treatment.

Sharing the picture to the Sweaty Betty PR Instagram account, she was also seen with a grey mud-like mask applied to the whole of her face.

'[It's] perfect to have once a month, fortnightly or just before events when glowing and plump skin is a must!' Roxy wrote.

Family day! On Sunday, Roxy headed out to Birkenhead Point by their new Shopper Hopper with husband Oliver Curtis, 32, and their children Pixie, six, and Hunter, three

Sunday funday! 'Experiencing the #shopperhopper today - got on at #circularquay and headed to @birkenheadpoint'

Roxy enjoyed a shopping trip with her family on the weekend.

Heading to Sydney's Birkenhead Point, she was joined by husband Oliver Curtis, 32, and their two kids Pixie, six, and Hunter, three.

Keeping it casual, Roxy donned a white Miu Miu shirt and jeans for the fun day out and accessorised with a blue Hermes bag.

Donning more upscale ensembles, Pixie and Hunter were both dressed in head-to-toe in designer - Givenchy, retailing at a combined total of nearly $850.

Designer kids! Donning more upscale ensembles, Pixie and Hunter were both dressed head to toe in Givenchy, retailing at a combined total of nearly $850

Starting their day at Jackies Cafe in Paddington, Roxy took a picture with Hunter who posed with his headphones on while using his iPad.

After brunch, the brood headed into the city to catch their ride to the outlet centre.

And it seemed like the kids enjoyed the boat experience with Pixie looking very content with her sweet treat she was greeted with during the 20-minute journey.

Distracted: Starting their day at Jackies Cafe in Paddington, Roxy took a picture with Hunter who posed with his headphones on while using his iPad

Fun day out: After brunch, the brood headed into the city to catch their ride to the outlet centre
The Emmy Awards are unquestionably one of the most glamorous nights of the year.

And Kyra Sedgwick was bringing some serious style to the red carpet at the 69th annual ceremony, hosted at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

The 52-year-old actress stunned in a striking purple gown with a lace skirt and a floaty gauze train as she made her grand arrival at the venue.

Scroll down for video

Glamorous: Kyra Sedgwick was bringing some serious style to the red carpet at the 69th annual ceremony, hosted at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday night

Kyra's elegant number featured a plunging neckline and semi-sheer detailing at the bust, adding a touch of glamour to the look.

The Hollywood actress' beautiful dress featured a floor-skimming skirt and subtle ruffles running down the bodice.

She wore her blonde locks in natural curls, setting off her hairdo with sparkling earrings.

Classic: Kyra's elegant number featured a plunging neckline and semi-sheer detailing at the bust, adding a touch of glamour to the look

The star previously joked that she was unfazed by the fact that she is distantly related to husband Kevin Bacon.

Kyra recently addressed the revelation - which first came out in 2013 on the PBS show Finding Your Roots - while appearing on a panel to promote her new ABC drama Ten Days in the Valley.

When she was asked about the 2013 episode and how she feels about being a distant cousin to her husband, she took the revelation in her stride.

Glamorous: The Hollywood actress' beautiful dress featured a floor-skimming skirt and subtle ruffles running down the bodice

Natural beauty: She wore her blonde locks in natural curls, setting off her hairdo with sparkling earrings

'I figured I was going to be related to Kevin Bacon  I mean, most white people are related, ultimately,' she said with a laugh.

'I wasn't surprised, honestly,' she continued. 'Frankly, I figured that was part the reason that they wanted to do both of us. I had to act surprised.'

The fact was delivered to the couple during the PBS show in which famous people get an insight into their family backgrounds.

Taking to the stage: Kyra and Dennis Quaid were presenting an award on the night

Beaming: The actress was in high spirits as she announced the winners

Host Henry Louis Gates Jr, the Harvard professor of African-American history, revealed that DNA evidence shows Bacon, 59, and Sedwick, 51, to be ninth cousins once removed.

Footloose star Bacon has been married to Sedgwick since September 4, 1988 after they met on the set of the PBS version of Lanford Wilson's play Lemon Sky.

They have two children, Travis Sedgwick Bacon, 28, and Sosie Ruth Bacon, 25.
She's the Australian singing talent that had a brush with cancer when she was 18 years old.

And now it appears that Delta Goodrem, 32, has been helping Olivia Newton-John deal with her second cancer diagnosis with a magazine claiming the 'mother-daughter' bond between the two is sparing on the 68-year-old star.

New Idea claims Olivia wants to beat her cancer: 'For women like Delta, who look up to her so much.'

'They are very close': Magazine claims that Delta Goodrem's relationship with Olivia Newton-John is helping the Grease star battle her second cancer diagnosis

Quoting an unnamed source, the publication claims that Delta, who is set to play the Grease star in a forthcoming mini-series, reveres Olivia.

'Delta really looks up to her,' the source is quoted as saying.

'Olivia knows that and has told family and friends she loves being a role model to Delta. They've always had a strong mother-daughter relationship and are very close.'

Mentor: Quoting an unnamed source, New Idea claims that Delta, who is set to play the Grease star in a forthcoming mini-series, reveres the star

While the source added that Olivia was determined to beat the disease for the sake of her husband John Easterling and daughter Chloe Lattanzi, it was the inspiration she felt from women like Delta that was helping her forge ahead.

'It's really helping her mental battle,' the source said.

Speaking to The Fix in June, Delta gushed about Olivia, revealing that the Xanadu star was her 'idol.'

Bond: Olivia knows that and has told family and friends she loves being a role model to Delta. They've always had a strong mother-daughter relationship and are very close'

'She is one of the finest people I know...I take a leaf out of her book. She is my hero, my mentor and my friend. And my idol,' Delta said.

She added that she believed Olivia's inherent positivity would help her beat the insidious disease.

'I know that she is a pillar of hope and she will get through this battle and come out helping even more people,' she said.

In May, Olivia shared news of her cancer diagnosis with fans while announcing she had been forced to postpone her concert tour dates in Canada and the US.

The star was first treated for breast cancer in 1992, at the age of 43. She underwent a partial mastectomy, chemotherapy and breast reconstruction.
Kerry Katona has come under fire for posting a photo of her 10-year-old daughter Heidi with a full face of make-up.

The former Atomic Kitten band mate, 37, was slammed by fans after posting the photos to her Instagram page on Sunday.

Kerry had proudly posted the photo of her sweet daughter, captioning it: 'Stunning is not the word to describe the beauty of my Heidi!!!'

Scroll down for video

Under fire: Kerry Katona, 37, has come under fire for posting a photo of her 10-year-old daughter Heidi with a full face of make-up on Instagram on Sunday

Playing dress-up, Heidi wore mascara, blush, and lipgloss. She finished off her makeover with a flower crown made of white daisies.

Fans were quick to criticise Kerry: 'Oh my god enough make up on her!... Way too much make up.'

However, others defended Kerry, pointing out the make over was simply a a bit of fun between the mother and daughter.

Not happy: The former Atomic Kitten band mate, 37, was slammed by fans after posting the photos to her Instagram page on Sunday, who said that Heidi was wearing 'way too much make up'

'The make up police will be out no doubt about this!! She's a beauty... Beautiful little lady bless her... Super pretty!!... She's absolutely stunning kerry like you'.

Meanwhile, Kerry could not stop beaming as she posed for a selfie with her hunky new boyfriend - who she was first seen with publicly during a PDA-packed meet at an airport last week.

Sharing the snap with her 88,700 followers, the stunning star was beaming in the image - released shortly after news arose that he had a violent past.

Too much: Fans were concerned about the amount of make-up Heidi was wearing

Defence: Other fans leapt to Kerry's defence

The smiling snap is her first public profession of romance yet the news comes after it was revealed that Kerry's new boyfriend James English once assaulted a woman and spat in her face in a McDonald's bust-up as shocking violent past is revealed.

She previously accused her estranged boxer husband George Kay of spitting in her face and displaying 'controlling' behaviour.

And it seems James has a violent past, as it has emerged the Scottish comedian once assaulted a woman and spat in her face.

Playing dress up: Playing dress-up, Heidi wore mascara, blush, and lipgloss. She finished off her makeover with a flower crown made of white daisies

The shamed 32-year-old actor, who was pals with slain gangster Euan 'EJ' Johnston, pled guilty to the assault during a furious bust-up at a McDonald's in 2015.

Kerry seemed unfazed by James' past as she was pictured kissing him passionately at a London airport last week - three months after splitting from George.

In April, James was initially charged with punching Michelle McArthur, 33, on the head and pulling her hair to the extent of an injury.

But that was later deleted from the charge - and instead he pled guilty to assault and spitting in her face during the brawl in November 2015.

James, who appeared on the reality show Glow last year, which was dubbed as 'Scotland's answer to TOWIE', had his sentence put back for a year for good behaviour when he appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court.
She is currently in London for Fashion Week, and is set to pound the catwalk at a number of high-profile shows.

And in a funny BBC Radio 1 interview set to air on Tuesday, Gigi Hadid revealed she is fully embracing the British culture, with the help of her native boyfriend Zayn Malik.

Talking to Nick Grimshaw on the Breakfast Show, the stunning model, 22, confessed she has been trying to perfect her own Sunday roast over the last few weeks - before going on to playfully mock her beau's Yorkshire accent.

Scroll down for video

Candid: Gigi Hadid revealed she is fully embracing the British culture, with the help of her native boyfriend Zayn Malik, in a funny BBC Radio 1 interview recorded on Monday (above)

Playful: Talking on the Breakfast Show, the model confessed she has been trying to perfect her own Sunday roast - before going on to mock beau Zayn's Yorkshire accent (pictured above)

The blonde beauty appears on the morning radio show with designer Tommy Hilfiger, ahead of his SS18 showcase during London Fashion Week.

Despite being the face of the luxury brand however, the blonde instead discussed her relationship with singer Zayn, 24, on the show - revealing he was helping her to immerse herself in British culture.

The model revealed her beau had been teaching her a lot about British foods, and that she was currently attempting to perfect the art of a classic Sunday roast.

Dream team: The blonde beauty chatted to host Nick Grimshaw (centre) with designer Tommy Hilfiger (L), ahead of his SS18 showcase during London Fashion Week

Opening up: The model revealed her beau had been teaching her a lot about British foods, and that she was currently attempting to perfect the art of a classic Sunday roast

However the LA native, who has been dating Zayn since 2015, did admit her recreation would never be as good as the one made by her beau's mum - implying she was close with her boyfriend's family.

Further demonstrating their close relationship, Gigi went on to mock the Bradford-born singer's northern accent, to the hilarity of Nick, Tommy and listeners.

Proving to have spent plenty of time in the UK with her boyfriend, Gigi explained she had binged on Bristol-based show Skins to try and master her accent - before confessing her love for beloved eatery Nandos.

Besotted: However Gigi, who has been dating Zayn since 2015, admitted her recreation would never be as good as Zayn's mum's - implying she was close with her boyfriend's family

Gotcha! Gigi ended the interview by answering a phone call from her 'biggest fan' Emily - who was later revealed to be her model sister Bella (right) pranking her

Only adding to the hilarity, Gigi ended the interview by answering a phone call from her 'biggest fan' Emily.

Asking for tips on how to get into modelling, the blonde delighted the super fan with sound advice - before Emily was actually revealed to be her younger model sister Bella, in a funny prank.

The full interview airs on Tuesday during The Breakfast Show with Nick Grimshaw on BBC Radio 1, 6:30-10:00am.

Gigi had made a stylish arrival at the BBC Radio 1 studios ahead of the interview, proving why she was first chosen as the face of Tommy Hilfiger's brand.

Well plaid: Gigi had made a stylish arrival at the BBC Radio 1 studios ahead of the interview (above), proving why she was first chosen as the face of Tommy Hilfiger's brand

Cover girl: Gigi had her flawless skin on show with a simply smoky eye and high bun, making sure the coat really stood out

The model paired the long-line coat with red Doc Marten boots, making sure she stood out as she entered the studios for an interview with breakfast show host Nick Grimshaw.

Allowing her flawless skin to shine, Gigi kept her hair scraped up into a neat high bun, with a simple smoky eye keeping her makeup both smart and sophisticated.

The beauty was in good spirits as she waved and posed for selfies with fans ahead of the interview due to be aired on Tuesday.

Natural beauty: Gigi was in the Radio 1 studios to chat all things fashion after stunning in the promotional photos for her third campaign with British design maven Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Girl: Gigi posed for selfies with fans as she headed to the interview due to be broadcast on Tuesday

Rock chic: Gigi seemed to have taken inspiration from her beau of two years Zayn Malik in the campaign, embracing edgy style with a rock theme in the campaign

Highland chic: Gigi rocked a plaid coat that wouldn't have looked out of place in the Scottish Highlands. The model seems to have taken to British fashion like a duck to water

'Positive': Tommy Hilfiger has showered the model with praise after the success of her previous collections with the designer. He told Vogue.co.uk she is 'a force in the fashion industry and the ultimate Tommy Girl'

'Memorable experience': Gigi has said that one of the best parts of revealing her collection is the final showcase on the runway. She said: 'It has been such a memorable experience that has been exciting to share with my followers'

Gigi was in the studio to talk about her third collection with Tommy Hilfiger, after stunning in promotional photos for the campaign

The model channeled her inner rock chick for the shoot, clearly inspired by the 'Tommy Tour 2017' of the collection.

Gigie has said that one of her favourite parts of revealing her collection is the final showcase on the runway.

She said: 'Weve loved presenting our collections directly to our fans on the runway each season - it has been such a memorable experience that has been exciting to share with my followers.'

Hot property: Gigi's position as a hot model in the industry has kept her in major demand with various designers including Marc Jacobs and Balmain

Second home: Gigi has been spotted out and about in Britain many times, as the homeland of her beau of two years Zayn Malik

Copy cat? Gigi certainly seems to have taken inspiration from her rockstar beau Zayn, with the collection carrying hints of his own edgy style

Designer Tommy Hilfiger similarly showered the model with praise after the success of her previous collections.

'Gigi is a force in the fashion industry and the ultimate Tommy Girl,' Tommy told Vogue.co.uk.

'Her positive, down-to-earth energy, and cool, effortless style continue to captivate her audiences around the world.'

Gigi certainly seems to have taken inspiration from her rockstar beau Zayn, with the collection carrying hints of his own edgy style.

The couple are no stranger to working together in the fashion industry, with both appearing on the cover of Vogue magazine in August.

Stunning: Gigi stunned in the promotional campaign for her third collection with Tommy Hilfiger, embracing an edgy rock chic style




Mad Men ended two years ago.

But co-stars Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss seem to be as close as ever.

On Sunday evening the two were seen hugging it out at the Hulu party at Otium in Los Angeles after she won an Emmy for her work on The Handmaid's Tale.

Mad about each other: Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss seem to be as close as ever. On Sunday evening the two were seen hugging it out at the Hulu party at Otium in Los Angeles

He hit the big parties: The 46-year-old was also seen solo at the HBO party

Hamm, who used to play Don Draper, looked dapper in a grey plaid suit.

The 46-year-old was also seen solo at the HBO party.

Moss triumphed over some of the biggest names in Hollywood to be named Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

And taking to the stage for her victory speech, she knew just who she wanted to thank.

'My brother, Derick, for being my best friend since the day you were born,' she said. 'And my mother. You are brave and strong and smart and you have taught me that you can be kind and a f***ing badass.'

Talented twosome: Elisabeth played determined Peggy Olson in Mad Men, while Jon portrayed her mentor, advertising boss and all-round ladies' man, Don Draper

The way they were: Mad Men's Moss and Hamm with Christina Hendricks, Vincent Kartheiser and John Slattery

Pretty in pink: Moss stunned in a Prabal Gurung gown at the 69th annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Celebrating in style: The actress was overjoyed with her big win for the hard-hitting show

The Handmaid's Tale star overcame stiff competition from the other nominees to triumph, beating Keri Russell, The Americans; Claire Foy, The Crown; The Handmaid's Tale; Robin Wright, House of Cards; Viola Davis, How to Get Away with Murder; Evan Rachel Wood, Westworld.

She seemed thrilled as she took to the stage to celebrate.

'So crazy!' she began. 'Im going to go with Hulu and MGM, thank you so much for supporting our show.

Mom's the word: Taking to the stage for her victory speech, Elisabeth knew just who she wanted to thank

Victorious: Elisabeth celebrates with Oprah as her show is named Outstanding Drama Series

I can't believe it: Elisabeth and Ann Dowd react after accepting the night's top award

Hugging it out: The cast couldn't believe their luck at beating off stiff competition

Tribute: Elisabeth told her mother 'You are brave and strong and smart and you have taught me that you can be kind and a f***ing badass'

Pretty in pink: The 35-year-old actress went for a 50s style Prabal Gurung number

Sealed with a kiss: The TV star showed her appreciation for both her trophies

Double whammy: She posed with both the Outstanding Drama and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series prize

'Each and every one of you has inspired me so much. You all deserve to be up here with me.'

Also getting a mention were her 'incredible' castmates and her manager and Handmaids Tale author Margaret Atwood for 'what you did in 1985. Thank you for what you continue to do for all of us.'

She also thanked director Reed Morano for 'teaching me what it means to be balls to the wall.'

Dazzling: Elisabeth pulled her look together with a pair of silver earrings

And Elisabeth sure looked like a winner on the red carpet.

The 35-year-old actress looked pretty in a pink Prabal Gurung number.

She definitely turned heads in the strapless midi dress at the event held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The dress worn by the former star of Mad Men definitely had a bit of a retro feel to it as it featured a bodice and flowy skirt.

Main cast: Ann Dowd, Elisabeth and Alexis Bledel joined forces behind the scenes

Glamorous: Gilmore Gils stat Alexis wore her brunette locks down in loose curls

Dazzling: Alexis' dress was embellished with a glittering purple pattern

All together now: The Handmaid's Tale cast posed all together behind the scenes

Elisabeth kept the rest of her look in the blush colour as she sported tie-up heels from Olgana Paris and accessorized with a matching pink clutch.

She also rocked a pair of gold earrings and wore her medium-length blonde locks down flowing over her shoulders.

The actress let her natural looks show with complimentary make-up topped off with a swipe of shiny pink lip.

The Television Academy's 21,000 members were given two weeks in June to sift through a crowded field of some 8,000 entries from shows aired during the previous 12 months across 113 categories.

Keeping the party going: Elisabeth then headed on to Hulu's 2017 Emmy After Party at Otium

Celebrating: Writer Bruce Miller was the winner of Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for The Handmaid's Tale

Terrific trio: Annapurna's Susan Goldberg and Sarah Gubbins posed with Elisabeth

Thrilled: Elisabeth looked pleased as punch with her trophies
They will celebrate their ten-year wedding anniversary next month.

And Hollywood star Jaime King and producer-director husband Kyle Newman proved they're just as loved up as ever while enjoying a date night at the Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday.

Looking sensational in a stunning silver gown, the Pearl Harbor actress was caught posing for selfies with her other half while attending the star-studded HBO after-party following the main awards show.

Scroll down for video

Still going strong! Hollywood actress Jaime King, 38, cuddled up to film producer and director husband Kyle Newman, 41, for a cute selfie at the HBO after party for the Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday night

Silver siren: the stunning Pearl Harbor star turned heads in a floor-sweeping, sparkling silver strapless gown, matched with open-toe heels

Cupping her hubby's face in her palm, the beautiful actress was seen holding her mobile phone out in one hand as Kyle peered over her shoulder for the couple's selfie.

While Kyle, 41, seemed unaware they'd been caught in the act, gorgeous Jaime, 38, clocked the camera and gave a megawatt smile before turning her attentions to snapping the perfect date night selfie.

Proving her model roots, the statuesque blonde struck a sultry pose and flaunted her killer cheekbones while pulling Kyle in closer for the snap.

The loved up couple married in November 2007, after meeting when Jaime appeared in comedy film Fanboys, which Kyle directed.

They've got two sons: James, born in 2013, and Leo, who arrived in 2015 and boasts Jaime's close friend Taylor Swift as his godmother.

Say cheese! Jaime proved her model roots by striking a pose while pulling husband Kyle in close for a selfie at their dinner table

What a vision! The strapless neckline and curve-skimming style highlighted the Hart of Dixie star's slender frame and killer legs

Red carpet beauty: the Nebraska-born star boasted a perfect golden glow and kept her blonde locks styled in simple loose waves around her face.

Earlier in the night, Jaime had turned heads and lit up the red carpet in a sparkling silver frock.

The strapless neckline and curve-skimming style highlighted the Hart of Dixie star's slender frame and killer legs, while also drawing attention to her toned shoulders and arms.

The Nebraska-born star boasted a perfect golden glow and kept her blonde locks styled in simple loose waves around her face, tucked back behind her right ear so as to ensure her statement silver earring was on display.

On the make-up front, Jaime chose to stay simple, allowing her natural beauty and clear complexion shine through with a flawless base, minimal eye make-up, groomed brows and a glossy pout.

Friends in high places: stunning Jaime was snapped hanging out with publishing heiress Lydia Hearst and entertainer Tracey Ullman at the party

Best of friends: Jaime and Lydia are such close friends that Jaime even officiated at Lydia's wedding in 2016. The two women cuddled for the camera while catching up at the star-studded bash

Group photo! Kyle and Jaime also posed for a picture with Tracey, Lydia, Lydia's husband Chris Hardwick and Tracey's son Johnny McKeown

Jaime wasn't the only famous face at the HBO party, which took place after the cable network won big at the at the 69th Emmy Awards.

Nicole Kidman, 50, whp won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Movie for her work in the HBO series Big Little Lies, was there to celebrate alongside husband Keith Urban and colleagues.

The Australian actress looked stunning in a Calvin Klein scarlet frock while she kissed husband Keith, 49, at the bash in West Hollywood.

She's a winner! Nicole Kidman kissed husband Keith Urban on Sunday at the HBO Party after she won at the 69th Emmy Awards

Elsewhere, Reese Witherspoon, 41, rocked a blue Stella McCartney blazer dress while celebrating with her look-alike 18-year-old daughter Ava Phillippe.

Nicole and Reese were both executive producers of Big Little Lies and co-produced it with their respective production companies Blossom Films and Pacific Standard.

Reese and Nicole also were both nominated in the same acting category that Nicole won.

The HBO Party also was attended by their Big Little Lies co-star Kathryn Newton, 20, who played Reese's daughter in the seven-episode series.

Family fun: Reese Witherspoon celebrated at the HBO After Party with her look-alike daughter Ava Phillippe as Big Little Lies took home eight awards

Big win: Reese who starred in and executive produced Big Little Lies celebrated its win for Outstanding Limited Series

Tender moment: Nicole and Keith enjoyed a tender moment at the HBO Party in West Hollywood

Good times: Keith smiled as Nicole touched his face as they both held Emmy trophies

Proud moment: Nicole posed with both her Emmy Awards at the star-studded bash

Gorgeous: She matched her lipstick to her dress as she posed up a storm

Arm-in-arm: The couple looked blissfully loved-up inside the event

Packing on the PDA: Nicole and Keith couldn't resist stealing a smooch

Close pals: Reese and Nicole couldn't contain their excitement as they celebrated the success of the show

Silk sensation: Reese showed off her slender legs in a wrap dress

Beaming: Reese flashed her pearly whites as she held her trophy aloft

Another big name in attendance was Alexander Skarsgard, who arrived clutching his Best Supporting Actor gong for Big Little Lies, closely followed by co-star Laura Dern, with her Best Supporting Actress trophy in hand.

She looked beautiful in her monochrome frock as she posed for pictures on the red carpet before meeting up with Reese inside for some cuddles, alongside Reese's daughter Ava and her own kids Jaya and Ellery.

Westworld stars including Thandie Newton, James Marsden and Luke Hemsworth also were in attendance, alongside their co-stars Evan Rachel Wood and Jeffrey Wright, who cosied up for a photo inside.

Hit show: Big Little Lies actress Kathryn Newton, 20, joined her co-stars at the party

Keeping his trophy close! Alexander Skarsgard arrived clutching his Best Supporting Actor gong for Big Little Lies

Hope she's cleared a space on the mantle! Laura Dern arrived with her gong for Best Supporting Actress in Big Little Lies

We did it! A jubilant Laura shared a hug with her producer Reese inside the party

The hard work paid off! The two women beamed as they celebrated the success of their critically acclaimed miniseries

Their mini mes! Reese and her daughter Ava joined Laura and her kids Jaya and Ellery for a group photo

Here comes Dolores! Westworld star Evan Rachel Wood cut a striking figure in a slim fitting black trouser suit

Westworld reunion: Evan joined co-star Jeffrey Wright for a photo inside the bash

Breathtaking: Westworld star Thandie Newton looked beautiful in a sparkling pale pink gown

Proud mum! Thandie's mother Nyasha joined her daughter at the glitzy party

All-star cast: fellow Westworld star James Marsden was also in attendance

Bold: Westworld beauty Angela Sarafyan turned heads in a canary yellow gown

Brooding: Westworld's Rodrigo Santoro cut a handsome figure inside the bash as he chatted with partner Mel Fronckowiak

The award-winning drama was well represented with James Marsden looking dapper in a navy suit on the red carpet and Angela Sarafyan turning heads in a canary yellow gown.

Meanwhile, their co-star Rodrigo Santoro cut a handsome figure inside the bash as he chatted with partner Mel Fronckowiak.

HBO was the big winner by network with 29 Emmys won, followed by Netflix with 20 awards and NBC with 15 wins.

Big Little Lies had the largest haul for HBO with eight Emmys.

Stunner in satin: Hollywood actress Jessica Biel wore a pale gold gown

Hollywood royalty: Michelle Pfeiffer joined HBO's CEO Richard Plepler and her husband David E. Kelley for a snap

Chic: Julianne Hough showcased her sensational figure in a striking yellow sheer haute couture ensemble

Vibrant: Despite the vibrant colour, the fishtail garment had an ethereal vibe to it as the enviable tulle added volume to her gym-honed figure

Valley girls: Silicon Valley stars Vanessa Marano and Amanda Crew attended the bash

Network party: Westworld actress Tessa Thompson also was in attendance

Famous family: Luke Hemsworth who also stars in Westworld was apparently feeling blue

Lovely in lace: Tessa Thompson was elegant in a cold-shoulder lace number

The Night Of, Veep and Westworld also won five Emmys each for HBO.

Jon Hamm, 46, who narrated the recent HBO mockumentary Tour de Pharmacy also attended the after-party, as did Julia Louis Dreyfus, who was celebrating the success of her show Veep.

Silicon Valley stars Vanessa Marano, 24, and Amanda Crew, 31, also made it out to the bash, alongside Hollywood stars Jessica Biel, 35, and Michelle Pfeiffer, 59.

Winner! Julia Louis-Dreyfus arrived without her Best Actress gong for Veep

TV star: Jon Hamm who recently narrated the HBO mockumentary Tour de Pharmacy looked typically dapper at the party

White gown: Sofia Vergara looked stunning in a long white gown at the HBO after party

Elegant: The stunning star wowed in a floaty white gown with a fishtail train

Pink lady: Padma Laksmi wore a pretty pink Christian Siriano gown

Sheer panels: Anne Heche wore a long grey dress with sheer side panels

Mystery man: The actress kissed a mystery man at the HBO party

Michelle's husband David E. Kelley, 61, was the brains behind Big Little Lies.

Bringing sunshine to the red carpet was newly-married Julianne Hough, 29, who wowed in a ethereal yellow frock.

The party also drew Padma Lakshmi, 47, and Anne Heche, 48, who previously starred in the HBO series Hung.

Fan favorite: Brittany Snow of Pitch Perfect fame also was in attendance

Stunning: Neve Campbell has recently been seen in Netflix series House of Cards

Silver siren :My Girl icon Anna Chlumsky now stars in the Emmy Award-winning series Veep

Dapper: Jeremy Piven's most famous role is still as Hollywood agent Ari Gold in HBO series Entourage

Also joining in the fun was Neve Campbell, 43, recently seen in Netflix series House of Cards, and My Girl icon Anna Chlumsky, 36, who now stars in the Emmy Award-winning series Veep.

Looking dapper was Jeremy Piven, 52, best known for playing Hollywood agent Ari Gold in the long-running HBO series Entourage.

Bringing extra glamour to proceedings was Debra Messing, 49, who is a multi Emmy Award nominee and Kathryn Hahn, 44, who appears in the HBO series Hung.

Pretty in pink: Will and Grace star Debra Messing chose a striking blush metallic frock

Keeping comfy: Hung actress Kathryn Hahn swapped heels for a pair of comfortable flat shoes for her night out

Weighed down with gold! Big Little Lies producer and director Jean-Marc Vallee couldn't resist showing off his trophies to the camera

Hollywood heavyweights: Jean-Marc joined forces inside with producer and director Gregg Fienberg and producer Nathan Ross

Glam co-stars: The Leftovers stars Amy Brenneman and Jasmin Savoy both turned heads on the red carpet

Glittering in gold: Busy Phillips currently stars in HBO comedy Vice Principals

Stunning: actress Sandra Vidal looked angelic in a white gown

Ready to celebrate! Veep's Reid Scott was no doubt ready to celebrate the show winning Best Comedy

Looking sharp: Zach Woods was on hand to represent Silicon Valley

Strike a pose: Rutina Wesley, Alexander Skarsgard, Adina Porter and Gregg Fienberg cosied up at the bash

Party pals: Janelle Monae and Tessa were seated together at the glittering bash

Terrific trio: James Tupper and Anne Heche cosied up inside the venue

Amy Brenneman, 53, was on hand to support her own HBO series The Leftovers, alongside co-star Jasmin Savoy, 23.

Meanwhile, Busy Phillips, 38, flashed a smile as she bigged up her HBO comedy Vice Principals.

Other stars in attendance included Reid Scott, 39, from Emmy Award-winning series Veep, and Zach Woods, 32, from Silicon Valley.

Hugging it out: Rutina Wesley and Alexander Skarsgard shared a friendly hug

All together now: Gina Torres, Adina Porter, Wanda Sykes, and Rutina were in attendance

Netflix bash: Meanwhile, Jackie Cruz, Gloria Calderon Kellett, Isabella Gomez and Diane Guerrero attended the Netflix Primetime Emmys after-party

Gorgeous gowns: Paris Berelc (left) and Vanessa Kirby (right) were dressed to impress

Proud moment: Master Of None favourite Aziz Ansari proudly held his trophy aloft

Double trouble: Ted Sarandos, Netflix Chief Content Officer, and Dave Chappelle partied in style

Main man: TV host James Corden joined in on the fun at the bash

Firm friends: Aziz was joined by his co-star Lena Waithe as they celebrated

Out and about: Isabel May, Nolan Gould, Rico Rodriguez and Paris partied together
She has carved a career in both television and radio, but first shot to fame as a model.

So it's no surprise Vogue Williams stole the show at London Fashion Week on Monday, as she stormed the Paul Costelloe runway in a daring designer dress.

The Irish model, 31, teased at her cleavage in a plunging pink floral ballgown as she fiercely pounded the catwalk at the star-studded show.

Scroll down for video

Show-stopping: It's no surprise Vogue Williams stole the show at London Fashion Week on Monday, as she stormed the Paul Costelloe runway in a daring designer dress

Making a leggy entrance, the presenting queen paraded her long and slender limbs in the statement frock, which rose to a thigh-skimming shorter hem at the front.

Making the look more striking, the designer garment also featured a fitted waist, to further accentuate her gym-honed figure, and bold bell sleeves.

Adding height to her already statuesque frame in pointed baby pink boots, Vogue was the picture of poise and elegance as she strutted her stuff down the catwalk.

Drama: The Bear Grylls: Mission Survive winner wore heavy eyeliner with a dusting of pink eye shadow to inject the finishing touches of drama into her catwalk appearance

Proving accessories are essential to nailing a look, she put her shiny rectangular drop earrings on display by scraping her golden locks into a high ponytail.

The Bear Grylls: Mission Survive winner teamed heavy eyeliner and mascara with a dusting of pink eye shadow to inject the finishing touches of drama into her catwalk appearance.

Vogue has been living the dream during London Fashion Week - and has been seen parading her phenomenal physique at numerous events.

Leggy lady: Making a leggy entrance, the presenting queen paraded her long and slender limbs in the statement frock, which rose to a thigh-skimming shorter hem at the front

Flattering: Making the look more striking, the designer garment also featured a fitted waist, to further accentuate her gym-honed figure, and bold bell sleeves

It is not only her career that is going from strength to strength however but also her personal life, as her relationship with MIC star Spencer Matthews continues to blossom.

The pair first set their sights on each other on Channel 4's The Jump in February, and confirmed their romance with an Instagram snap of them kissing one month later.

The gorgeous blonde recently revealed that the secret to their successful relationship is speaking to each other an excessive number of times a day.

Putting her best foot forward: Adding height to her already statuesque frame in pointed baby pink boots, Vogue was the picture of poise and elegance as she strutted her stuff

The Howth born beauty was discussing her boyfriend's upcoming appearance on Channel 4's Hunted when she made the revelation.

Hunted sees Spencer and his Made In Chelsea pal Jamie Laing completely go off-grid trying to evade capture from a team of expert surveillance hunters.

Vogue told Goss.ie: 'To be honest, it was a bit of an inconvenience for me. The hunters were actually hacking me, hacking my phone, they left a bug in my house.

'They turned up uninvited at 10 o'clock at night to try and see if I had seen Spencer. I had no make-up on and was wearing ice cream pajamas so I'm going to look pretty violent on that show.'

Model behaviour: Vogue has been living the dream during London Fashion Week - and has been seen parading her phenomenal physique at numerous events

Despite Spencer absolutely loving his experience, Vogue divulged she found it difficult not to talk to her lover as they communicate so often throughout the day.

She added: 'Yeah, you know what, we weren't able to talk.

'We went eight days without talking or seeing each other and that was really, really difficult because we speak to each other about 20 times a day so that was definitely the toughest part of it.'

In good company: She posed up a storm with the famous fashion designer Paul Costelloe backstage at the star-studded event

Front and Centre: Pop singer Femme attend the Paul Costelloe catwalk show at Fashion week

Killer looks: Charlotte de Carle took to the runway in a striking olive green jacket with impressive billowing sleeves which added character to her look

How to accessorise: The gorgeous model paraded her limbs in skintight leather trousers, adding to her height on the catwalk in sky-scraper high boots

Pins on parade: Olivia Cox showcased her legs in the thigh-skimming army-style dress, which she teamed with kooky black socks

Cosy: Francesca Newman-Young joined Olivia in a dark green cold shoulder dress

Great time: The ladies were also in the good company of Charlotte when they perched at the fashion show

Daring: Francesca Newman-Young (L) put her gravity-defying cleavage on display in a cold shoulder green dress while Fleur East (R) went braless in a silver suit teamed with white heels

Glamorous as ever: Fleur also showcased her long legs when she perched on a stool with a glass of bubbly at the fashion show

Confidence: Former Made In Chelsea's Nicola Hughes drew attention to her long thigh-high boots teamed with a pale mini dress

Fashion parade: Laura Wright (L) sparkled in the dazzling mini dress while Naomi Isted (R) opted for jeans teamed with pointed boots and a chic white blouse

Here come the girls: Fleur, Nicola and Laura looked cosy as they enjoyed each other's charming company
She's the actress and model that's branching out into the world of fashion design.

And Olivia Culpo simply stunned in campaign shots for her collaboration with Pretty Little Thing.

The 25-year-old flaunted her cleavage and taut torso in a number of revealing ensembles that oozed Italian glamour.

Pretty Little Thing! Olivia Culpo, 25, flaunted her cleavage and taut torso in revealing ensembles for her collaboration with the fashion retailer

In one shot, Olivia is seen highlighting her ample cleavage in a black pleather frock with a very daring neckline.

Clutching onto a beverage, the brunette oozes Italian glamour, standing next to a table with authentic pasta and pizza.

Tilting her head to the side and pulling a startled expression, Olivia looks primped to perfection, drawing attention to sleek locks and a glamorous makeup palette.

Italian glamour: One image sees Olivia showing off her lean mid-section in a flirty two-piece

Fun and flirty: A following shot sees the former beauty pageant queen flashing her taut torso in a two-piece ensemble

Another image sees the former beauty pageant queen flashing her taut torso in a two-piece ensemble.

An off-the-shoulder red top finishes just under the bust, drawing the eye to her washboard stomach.

Teaming the look with a pair of high-waisted flared trousers, Olivia accessorises further with a box clutch and holds a red rose to her nose.

A following shot sees the starlet once again showing off her lean mid-section in a flirty two-piece.

Notoriety: Olivia was named Miss Universe back in 2012

Building an empire: She has since branched out into modelling, acting and fashion design

The campaign comes at a busy time for Olivia, who has been lighting up parties and runways at New York Fashion Week.

The beauty, who was named Miss Universe back in 2012, previously revealed her fashion mantra.

She told US InStyle: 'Make sure your clothes are tailored. You can pull off anything if it fits you well and the proportions are right.

'I never plan my outfit the night before, except when I'm going to a big event. I feel like what I put on is a complete representation of how I feel, and I never know how I'm going to feel on any given day until I wake up.'
'Peru two' drug mule Michaella McCollum was seen on a solo beach outing on Monday in Majorca.

The 24-year-old former convict walked across the sand alone showing off her svelte frame in a grey and white two-piece.

The blonde showcased her toned stomach and her lengthy pins as she went Au Naturel with minimal make-up.

Scroll down for video

All by herself! Peru Two drug mule Michaella McCollum displays her toned beach body as she strolls along the shores of Majorca alone in a skimpy bikini

She kept her eyes covered with some dark shades and left her dark blonde tresses rest loosely around her shoulders.

Michaella matched her blue/grey and white bikini with long, sharp nails of the same colour, clearly having recently treated herself to a manicure.

The top of her two-piece was tied around the back of her neck and her bottoms showed off her pert behind.

Peru One: 'Peru two' drug mule Michaella McCollum was seen on a solo beach outing on Monday in Majorca

Pert: The 24-year-old former convict walked across the sand alone showing off her svelte frame in a grey and white two-piece

Toned: The blonde showcased her toned stomach and her lengthy pins as she went Au Naturel with minimal make-up

Glamorous: The blonde bombshell bathed in the sun on the Spanish beach

Like a swish out of water: She kept her eyes covered with some dark shades and left her dark blonde tresses rest loosely around her shoulders

She frolicked in the sea and peered around thoughtfully, presumably considering what to do that evening, seemingly on holiday by herself.

She then headed over to her lonesome towel where she reclined for some sunbathing under the cloudless skies.

The ex-criminal, from County Tyrone, Northern Ireland is known for showing off her tan in swimwear and being one half of the drug-smuggling twosome.

Elegant: Michaella reclined on the sand as she tied her hair back

Chilling: Michaella matched her blue/grey and white bikini with long, sharp nails of the same colour, clearly having recently treated herself to a manicure

Squats: The top of her two-piece was tied around the back of her neck and her bottoms showed off her pert behind

Paddle: She frolicked in the sea and peered around thoughtfully, presumably considering what to do that evening, seemingly on holiday by herself

The jet-setter, who was jailed in Peru alongside Melissa Reid in 2013 for trying to smuggle 1.5million's worth of cocaine into Europe, has enjoyed a string of beach holidays in the months since her release from prison.

In spring, McCollum was spotted living it up in the party centres of Ibiza and Marbella enjoying sun, sea and cocktails.

She was most recently seen taking in the sights of Brighton Pride with a male companion over the weekend, partying alongside some 30,000 other revellers on the streets of the seaside city.

Socialite: The jet-setter, who was jailed in Peru alongside Melissa Reid in 2013 for trying to smuggle 1.5million's worth of cocaine into Europe, has enjoyed a string of beach holidays in the months since her release from prison

Not looking back: In spring, McCollum was spotted living it up in the party centres of Ibiza and Marbella enjoying sun, sea and cocktails

Getting about a bit? She was most recently seen taking in the sights of Brighton Pride with a male companion over the weekend, partying alongside some 30,000 other revellers on the streets of the seaside city

How the former drugs smuggler has funded her holidays is unclear. Earlier this year she was seen signing on at her local Jobcentre, however she has also been linked to a number of potentially lucrative opportunities.

It has been reported that she has been offered a 250,000 tell all book deal detailing her criminal exploits and time behind bars in Lima.

She and Reid had each been sentenced to six years and eight months in jail after admitting to trying to smuggle cocaine out of the country.
He's the popular game show host and doting father that Australians love.

And now Grant Denyer has once again shown off how much he loves his children with an adorable tribute on his daughter's second birthday.

The 40-year-old posted to Instagram on Monday to wish his youngest daughter, Scout, a happy birthday.

'I love you, cuddle monster': Grant Denyer pays tribute to his little girl on her second birthday with an adorable Instagram post

Doting dad: Another image posted only moments later shows the caring father giving a piggy-back to Scout and eldest daughter Sailor, six, to create a 'triple-decker Dad'

'I love you so incredibly much Scout,' he wrote.

'For being the bright faced little cuddle monster you are.'

In the picture, a cheerful Scout shows off her pearly whites with a big smile, while holding an ice cream cone.

Another image posted only moments later shows the caring father giving a piggy-back to Scout and eldest daughter Sailor, six, to create a 'triple-decker Dad'.

But perhaps he become a 'quadruple-decker Dad' in the near future, after wife Cheryl Denyer opened up on Monday about the couple's plans for more children.

Growing their family! On Monday, Cheryl Denyer revealed her and husband Grant were thinking of expanding their brood

Looking for a boy! 'Grant's an amazing dad, and we've spoken about it, so who knows,' she said

Speaking to TV Week on Monday, the mum-of-two said Grant would love a son.

'He'd love a little boy running around the house,' she said.

'Grant's an amazing dad, and we've spoken about it, so who knows.'

While Cheryl spends her time living on her 27 acre farm just outside of Bathurst, Grant juggles hosting Family Feud, which is taped in Melbourne, along with his racing obligations.

Longing daddy-daughter time: Taking to Instagram late last month, Grant uploaded an adorable photo of his two girls holding up a piece of paper which read: 'We love you Daddy we miss you'

Speaking to New Idea last week, Cheryl said that due to Grant's tight schedule, she only saw her husband 42 days in 2016.

'Last year Grant was only home six weeks out of the whole year - with all his motor racing and TV commitments - so it wasn't long,' she said.

And it seems Cheryl isn't the only one missing Grant with young Sailor and Scout also longing for daddy-daughter time as well.

Taking to Instagram late last month, Grant uploaded an adorable photo of his two girls holding up a piece of paper which read: 'We love you Daddy we miss you.'

Not much time together: Speaking to New Idea last week, Cheryl revealed due to Grant's tight schedule, she only saw her husband 42 days in 2016
She's known for her enviable fashion displays on the red carpet and exclusive soirees.

And Salma Hayek wowed the style brigade once again as she showcased her personal flair for fashion attending the Christopher Kane's SS18 show as part of London Fashion Week at the Blavatnik building on Monday.

The 51-year-old actress looked incredible as she worked an eye-catching cropped red leather biker jacket that highlighted her hourglass curves alongside her husband Francois-Henri Pinault.

Scroll down for video

Sizzling: Salma Hayek wowed the style brigade once again as she showcased her personal flair for fashion attending the Christopher Kane's SS18 show as part of London Fashion Week at the Blavatnik building on Monday

The From Dusk 'Til Dawn actress accentuated her narrow waist as she slipped on a high-waisted metallic pencil skirt for the occasion.

Her dazzling garment was sure to skim her slender thighs while she posed for photos at the coveted fashion event.

Working a kooky style, Salma definitely went outside her usual fashion box as she injected a number of different textures into her show-stopping ensemble.

Adding inches to her diminutive height, she sported a pair of leg-elongating pointed silver pumps while holding onto her quirky clutch and accessorising her wrist in a number of eye-catching Carolina Bucci designed bracelets.

Form-fitting: The 51-year-old actress looked incredible as she worked an eye-catching cropped red leather biker jacket that highlighted her hourglass curves

Eye-catching: The Mexican beauty posed for photos with her husband Francois-Henri Pinault

She continued her glamorous display while working her raven-coloured locks into a voluminous blow dry which complemented her pink lipstick.

Joining the Hollywood star, Vogue Editor-in-chief Anna Wintour made her way to the FROW wearing her statement shades indoors as she watched the fashion.

The beauty recently admitted she has never been disciplined when it comes to exercise - and is even less inclined to work out since turning 50.

Opening up to NET-A-PORTER's digital magazine The EDIT, the Desperado star confessed she has never succumbed to the size pressures of Hollywood, though she insisted she does like to look good for her husband, French businessman Francois-Henri.

Metallic muse: Adding inches to her diminutive height, she sported a pair of leg-elongating pointed silver pumps while holding onto her quirky clutch and accessorising her wrist in a number of eye-catching Carolina Bucci designed bracelets

Runway ready: Joining the Hollywood star, Vogue Editor-in-chief Anna Wintour made her way to the FROW wearing her statement shades indoors as she watched the fashion

All in the print: The fashion connoisseur clashed prints for her appearance on the FROW

She confessed: 'I will sometimes say, "I am 51 years old! Why do I have to look good? I already got my guy!" But then, I dont want to lose the guy, either.'

Admitting that she loves her shapely silhouette, the mother-of-one continued: 'I love the word "curvy"; it's artistic.

'A straight line can be boring. [But] I'm not going to lie to you, I would like the curve to go in instead of out in some places.'

The candid interview also saw Salma reveal that Francois-Henri, who is the chairman and CEO of luxury fashion conglomerate Kering, calls her 'electric'.

Fashion fun: FKA Twigs made an appearance alongside designer Jonathan Saunders at the catwalk show

Absent: She was spotted without her distinctive engagement ring that her other half Robert Pattinson had given her

Style star: Alexa Chung showcased her signature style at the coveted fashion event

In the navy: Alexa worked a striking double-breasted wool blazer for the show

Style savvy: Alexa sat with Selah Marley and Nana for the show

Elsewhere, FKA Twigs made an appearance alongside designer Jonathan Saunders at the catwalk show, noticeably without her distinctive engagement ring that her other half Robert Pattinson had given her.

The second day in a row without her silver ring she accessoried her hands with a number of eye-catching sparklers on the rest of her hands.

The couple have been engaged since April 2015 but they have not been seen together since May 2017.

Representatives for FKA twigs and Robert Pattinson has been contacted by MailOnline for further information.

In the FROW: (L to R) Jonathan Saunders, FKA Twigs, Selah Marley, Alexa Chung, Nana, Harley Viera Newton, Laura Bailey, Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert and Stephen Jones attend the Christopher Kane SS18 catwalk show

Getting chic done: Model Harley Viera Newton, 29, and designer Laura Bailey attended the star-studded show

Fashion fans: (L to R) Nana, Harley Viera Newton, Laura Bailey, Lauren Santo Domingo, Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert and Stephen Jones sat together to watch the runway

Fans spotted that FKA was not wearing the ring on August 1, which immediately prompted questions about a break-up from commentators.

At the start of August, the Twilight star was pictured dining at the Sunset Towers Hotel's rooftop restaurant with his ex Katy Perry.

Robert and Katy have faced rumours of romance since the very beginning of their friendship back in 2012.

Yellow good looking! Lauren Hill's daughter Selah Marley, 18, stepped out in a vibrant yellow jumper

Posing: Fashionista Giovanna Battaglia and Milliner Stephen Jones

Katy's assured folks the pair are completely platonic more than a few times in the past, telling Elle UK 'He's my bud, I'm like his big sister' while even revealing she 'farts' in front of the heartthrob back in 2013.

Just weeks before that, the English gent said that he was 'kind of engaged' to girlfriend FKA during an interview with Howard Stern.

Other stars wowing at the exclusive fashion event included Alexa Chung, Lauren Hill's daughter Selah Marley and designer Laura Bailey.

Christopher Kane's presentation featured a heavy focus on texture in the form of knitwear, tartan and patent leather for a eighties flair.

New collection: Christopher Kane's presentation featured a heavy focus on texture in the form of knitwear, tartan and patent leather for a eighties flair

For the frill of it: He also included a number of frill detailed garments and fringe accented pieces

Pink to make 'em wink: Pink was a theme throughout the show which added a feminine touch to the tough textures
Chris Pratt had nothing but praise for his estranged wife Anna Faris' first public appearance since their split during CBS' Emmy Awards telecast Sunday.

'Oh gosh, were the Emmy's tonight? I guess I wasn't invited. I didn't get an invitation. I haven't checked my mailbox lately,' the 38-year-old action star joked to TMZ.

'I know she did great. Anna did an amazing job, man. She rules. Her and Allison [Janney] looked great. Go watch Mom on CBS!'

Scroll down for video

'I guess I wasn't invited': Chris Pratt had nothing but praise for his estranged wife Anna Faris' first public appearance since their split during CBS' Emmy Awards telecast Sunday

The 40-year-old SAG Award nominee took the plunge in a purple Marc Jacobs halter gown while presenting a trophy alongside her 57-year-old onscreen mother onstage LA's Microsoft Theater.

Meanwhile, the Guardians of the Galaxy heartthrob was spotted leaving church on Sunday with their cute bespectacled five-year-old son Jack sporting a Captain American shirt.

The charismatic couple amicably announced their legal separation after eight years of marriage in an August 6 Facebook post.

'We tried hard for a long time, and were really disappointed,' they jointly wrote.

The 38-year-old action star gushed tot TMZ: 'I know she did great. Anna did an amazing job, man. She rules. Her and Allison [Janney] looked great. Go watch Mom on CBS!'

And the winner is...: The 40-year-old SAG Award nominee took the plunge in a purple Marc Jacobs halter gown while presenting a trophy alongside her 57-year-old onscreen mother onstage LA's Microsoft Theater

Sporting a Captain American shirt: Meanwhile, the Guardians of the Galaxy heartthrob was spotted leaving church on Sunday with their cute bespectacled five-year-old son Jack

'Our son has two parents who love him very much and for his sake we want to keep this situation as private as possible moving forward. We still have love for each other, will always cherish our time together and continue to have the deepest respect for one another.'

Chris and Anna met at an early 2007 table read for Take Me Home Tonight - shortly after she filed for divorce from her love interest in Lovers Lane, Ben Indra.

On July 10, Pratt announced from his trailer in Hawaii that he'd officially wrapped Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom to his 22M social media followers.

It's over: The charismatic couple amicably announced their legal separation after eight years of marriage in an August 6 Facebook post (pictured April 24)

They jointly wrote: 'We tried hard for a long time, and were really disappointed. Our son has two parents who love him very much and for his sake we want to keep this situation as private as possible moving forward. We still have love for each other'

Pictured in 2006: Chris and Anna met at an early 2007 table read for Take Me Home Tonight - shortly after she filed for divorce from her love interest in Lovers Lane, Ben Indra (L)

The Minnesota-born hunk reprised his role as dinosaur researcher Owen Grady in J.A. Bayona's sequel - hitting US/UK theaters next June - alongside Bryce Dallas Howard, Jeff Goldblum, and BD Wong.

Meanwhile, Faris will kick off her Unqualified book tour October 24 (the same day it hits shelves) at New Jersey's Landmark Loews Theater's WORD Bookstore in Jersey City.

The Baltimore-born blonde will resume her role as single mother Christy Jolene Plunkett in the 22-episode fifth season of her sitcom Mom, which premieres November 2 on CBS.

'That's a wrap!' On July 10, Pratt announced from his trailer in Hawaii that he'd officially wrapped Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom to his 22M social media followers

Hitting US/UK theaters next June! The Minnesota-born hunk reprised his role as dinosaur researcher Owen Grady in J.A. Bayona's sequel alongside Bryce Dallas Howard

Author: Meanwhile, Faris will kick off her Unqualified book tour October 24 (the same day it hits shelves) at New Jersey's Landmark Loews Theater's WORD Bookstore in Jersey City
On Sunday, she was seen without her distinctive engagement, two months after Robert Pattinsion said he was 'kind of' betrothed to her.

And FKA twigs appeared to continue in making a bold statement about the state of the pair's romance on Monday, when she stepped out for the second day in a row without the silver accessory given to her by the Twilight heartthrob.

As she sat front row at the Christopher Kane SS18 London Fashion Week presentation, held at The Tanks at the Tate Modern, the 29-year-old was notably missing the jewellery item on her ring finger.

Scroll down for video

No ring: FKA twigs (centre) was spotted without her engagement ring for the second day in a row when she attended the Christopher Kane SS18 London Fashion Week show, held at The Tanks at Tate Modern on Monday

Representatives for FKA twigs and Robert Pattinson has been contacted by MailOnline for further information.

The couple have been engaged since April 2015 but they have not been seen together since May 2017.

Fans spotted that FKA was not wearing the ring on August 1, which immediately prompted questions about a break-up from observers.

At the start of August, the Twilight star was pictured dining at the Sunset Towers Hotel's rooftop restaurant with his ex Katy Perry.

'Kind of' engaged: In August, Robert Pattinson (pictured in 2015) said that he was 'kind of' engaged to wed FKA

No costume jewellery: At their last joint sighting (here) she was not wearing the ring, either

Smitten: The pair were pictured looking smitten during a rare red carpet appearance in February (pictured) but have not been seen together since May

Robert and Katy have faced rumours of romance since the very beginning of their friendship back in 2012.

Katy's assured folks the pair are completely platonic more than a few times in the past, telling Elle UK 'He's my bud, I'm like his big sister' while even revealing she 'farts' in front of the heartthrob back in 2013.

Just weeks before that, the British actor said that he was 'kind of engaged' to girlfriend FKA during an interview with Howard Stern.

You're engaged, right?" Stern pressed during an interview on his SiriusXM show, to which Robert replied: 'Yeah, kind of.'

Something's missing: At Sunday's LFW Versus showcase, she was notably seen without her engagement ring again

Relaxed: The singer appeared to be in a relaxed mood as she chatted with Jonathan Saunders

'Kind of?' asked Stern. 'You're one of those secretive guys with the relationship, right? Protective.'

Robert went on: 'It's one of the most frustrating things in the world, you want to be able to (be more open), but it's literally like, you get stuck in this position but you have to make this decision whether you want to let the crazy people in.'

Something's missing: The ring is a distinctive style, true to form for FKA

A source told E! News in August that things between the couple were not as strong as they once were, saying: 'He is technically still with FKA twigs, but it doesn't seem like it will last.

'They were serious at one point, but not anymore. The whole thing with Rob saying they are 'kind of engaged' speaks for itself. The relationship has been fizzling out.'

At the Christopher Kane show, FKA twigs, whose real name is Tahliah Barnett, stepped out in style, wearing a delicate white lacy gown under an embellished black jacket, while chunky jewellery adorned her neck.

Wearing red-tinted shades, the Gloucestershire native wore her raven locks in tight curls on top and plaits at the back as she mingled with a host of well-heeled guests.

Also in attendance was Salma Hayek, who wowed looked incredible as she worked an eye-catching cropped red leather biker jacket that highlighted her hourglass curves alongside her husband Francois-Henri Pinault.

Sizzling: Salma Hayek put on a glamorous display as she attended the hot ticket fashion show

Form-fitting: The 51-year-old actress looked incredible as she worked an eye-catching cropped red leather biker jacket that highlighted her hourglass curves

The From Dusk 'Til Dawn actress, 51, accentuated her narrow waist as she slipped on a high-waisted metallic pencil skirt for the occasion.

Her dazzling garment was sure to skim her slender thighs while she posed for photos at the coveted fashion event.

Working a kooky style, Salma definitely went outside her usual fashion box as she injected a number of different textures into her show-stopping ensemble.

Adding inches to her diminutive height, she sported a pair of leg-elongating pointed silver pumps while holding onto her quirky clutch.

Eye-catching: The Mexican beauty posed for photos with her husband Francois-Henri Pinault

Metallic muse: Her dazzling garment was sure to skim her slender thighs while she posed for photos at the coveted fashion event

She continued her glamorous display while working her raven-coloured locks into a voluminous blow dry which complemented her pink lipstick.

Joining the Hollywood star, Vogue Editor-in-chief Anna Wintour made her way to the FROW wearing her statement shades indoors as she watched the fashion.

The beauty recently admitted she has never been disciplined when it comes to exercise - and is even less inclined to work out since turning 50.

Opening up to NET-A-PORTER's digital magazine The EDIT, the Desperado star confessed she has never succumbed to the size pressures of Hollywood, though she insisted she does like to look good for her husband, French businessman Francois-Henri.

Runway ready: Joining the Hollywood star, Vogue Editor-in-chief Anna Wintour made her way to the FROW wearing her statement shades indoors as she watched the fashion

All in the print: The fashion connoisseur clashed prints for her appearance on the FROW

She confessed: 'I will sometimes say, "I am 51 years old! Why do I have to look good? I already got my guy!" But then, I dont want to lose the guy, either.'

Admitting that she loves her shapely silhouette, the mother-of-one continued: 'I love the word "curvy"; it's artistic.

'A straight line can be boring. [But] I'm not going to lie to you, I would like the curve to go in instead of out in some places.'

The candid interview also saw Salma reveal that Francois-Henri, who is the chairman and CEO of luxury fashion conglomerate Kering, calls her 'electric'.

Style star: Alexa Chung showcased her signature style at the coveted fashion event

In the navy: Alexa worked a striking double-breasted wool blazer for the show

Style savvy: Alexa sat with Selah Marley and Nana for the show

Elsewhere, FKA Twigs made an appearance alongside designer Jonathan Saunders at the catwalk show, noticeably without her distinctive engagement ring that her other half Robert Pattinson had given her.

The second day in a row without her silver ring she accessoried her hands with a number of eye-catching sparklers on the rest of her hands.

The couple have been engaged since April 2015 but they have not been seen together since May 2017.

Representatives for FKA twigs and Robert Pattinson has been contacted by MailOnline for further information.

In the FROW: (L to R) Jonathan Saunders, FKA Twigs, Selah Marley, Alexa Chung, Nana, Harley Viera Newton, Laura Bailey, Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert and Stephen Jones attend the Christopher Kane SS18 catwalk show

Getting chic done: Model Harley Viera Newton, 29, and designer Laura Bailey attended the star-studded show

Fashion fans: (L to R) Nana, Harley Viera Newton, Laura Bailey, Lauren Santo Domingo, Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert and Stephen Jones sat together to watch the runway

Fans spotted that FKA was not wearing the ring on August 1, which immediately prompted questions about a break-up from commentators.

At the start of August, the Twilight star was pictured dining at the Sunset Towers Hotel's rooftop restaurant with his ex Katy Perry.

Robert and Katy have faced rumours of romance since the very beginning of their friendship back in 2012.

Yellow good looking! Lauryn Hill's daughter Selah Marley, 18, stepped out in a vibrant yellow jumper

Posing: Fashionista Giovanna Battaglia and Milliner Stephen Jones

Katy's assured folks the pair are completely platonic more than a few times in the past, telling Elle UK 'He's my bud, I'm like his big sister' while even revealing she 'farts' in front of the heartthrob back in 2013.

Just weeks before that, the English gent said that he was 'kind of engaged' to girlfriend FKA during an interview with Howard Stern.

Other stars wowing at the exclusive fashion event included Alexa Chung, Lauren Hill's daughter Selah Marley and designer Laura Bailey.

Christopher Kane's presentation featured a heavy focus on texture in the form of knitwear, tartan and patent leather for a eighties flair.

New collection: Christopher Kane's presentation featured a heavy focus on texture in the form of knitwear, tartan and patent leather for a eighties flair

For the frill of it: He also included a number of frill detailed garments and fringe accented pieces

Pink to make 'em wink: Pink was a theme throughout the show which added a feminine touch to the tough textures

Making statement: Another model donned a gothic inspired jacket

Heading home: FKA was spotted leaving the venue without so much as a smile
Advertisement

The cast of the original film was led predominantly by men - but spy organization Kingsman made way for the women on Monday night.

With new recruits Halle Berry, 51, and Julianne Moore, 56, hitting the orange carpet, the world premiere of Kingsman: The Golden Circle in London was certainly a glamorous affair for the actors.

Oscar-winning beauty Julianne, 56, dazzled outside Cineworld in Leicester Square alongside Halle - fittingly dressed in berry colours - and their co-star Channing Tatum's exquisite wife Jenna Dewan Tatum turning heads.

Scroll down for video

Leading the glamour: (L-R) Halle Berry, Jenna Dewan Tatum and Julianne Moore led the glamour as they arrived at the world premiere of Kingsman: The Golden Circle, held at Cineworld in Leicester Square, London, on Monday night

Julianne recently revealed that, during her earlier days in the film industry, a former agent had once insensitively told her she wasn't 'pretty' enough for casting directors.

And North Carolina-born Julianne continued to prove all of her onetime naysayers wrong as she wowed in a glittering silver gown, which was given an extra eye-catching touch with the addition of a cold shoulder feature.

Formed entirely of shimmering sequins, the slinky frock then skimmed her enviably slender figure all the way down as she beamed widely for cameras.

Drawing the attention of fans and photographers gathered at the hot ticket event, the American actress accessorised with angular silver earrings and a pair of rings as she glided down the customised golden carpet.

Highlighting her natural beauty with smokey eyeliner, mascara and bubblegum pink lipstick, the screen star - who plays villainous entrepreneur Poppy Adams in the star-studded film - wore her red tresses in a sleek ponytail.

Star-studded: The red carpet gathered (from left) Edward Holcroft, Channing Tatum, Taron Egerton, Elton John, director Matthew Vaughn, Jeff Bridges, Julianne Moore, Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Claudia Schiffer and Halle Berry as a cast

Altogether now: Jane Goldman wrote the project, while new names Poppy Delevingne, Keith Allen and Emily Watson join the franchise

Lads, lads, lads: Julianne stood out in front of the mainly-male line-up, which originally featured Taron and Colin

Cold shoulder: Oscar-winning actress Julianne dazzled as she arrived wearing a silver cold shoulder long-sleeved dress

Slinky: Formed entirely of shimmering sequins, the slinky frock then skimmed her enviably slender figure all the way down as she beamed widely for cameras

Hint of glitz: Drawing the attention of fans and photographers gathered at the hot ticket event, the American actress accessorised with angular silver earrings and a pair of rings as she glided down the customised golden carpet

Glamming it up: She was putting on a glowing appearance as she appeared at the photocall earlier in the day

While Julianne was every inch the bombshell as she posed, Jenna Dewan Tatum opted for a more fairytale-inspired look, as she hit the carpet in a striking green gown.

The 36-year-old slipped her famous dancer figure into a pale green maxi dress, which rose into a delicate embroidered chiffon corset at the top.

Cinching in at her slim waist, the dress then cascaded out into a stunning tulle skirt, which fell softly on the carpet behind her as she posed for cameras.

Letting her striking outfit do the talking, the Step Up star left her brunette bob in its usual sleek and glossy style, and opted for a bronzed and dewy make-up look to accentuate her radiant complexion.

True romance: While Julianne was every inch the bombshell as she posed, Jenna Dewan Tatum opted for a more fairytale-inspired look, as she hit the carpet in a striking green gown

Stunning: Letting her striking outfit do the talking, the Step Up star left her brunette bob in its usual sleek and glossy style, and opted for a bronzed and dewy make-up look to accentuate her radiant complexion

My man: Jenna was the picture of elegance and glamour as she supported her handsome husband Channing Tatum at the star-studded event

Handsome: Meanwhile the hunk, who she met on the set of Step Up back in 2006, was typically handsome in a slick double breasted suit of navy pinstripe as he posed beside his wife on the carpet

True gentleman: Channing was seen helping his wife adjust her dress on the carpet, before the play joked around in front of cameras - proving to still be besotted after eight years of marriage

Adding bright pink lipstick in a finishing touch of colour and adding a smattering of Chopard jewels, Jenna was the picture of elegance and glamour as she supported her husband Channing Tatum at the star-studded event.

Meanwhile the hunk, who she met on the set of Step Up back in 2006, was typically handsome in a slick double breasted suit of navy pinstripe as he posed beside his wife on the carpet - and helped her adjust her dress on the carpet, like a true gentleman.

Only adding to the glamour of the evening was Halle Berry, who opted for a more daring and dramatic sheer look of black and purple.

The 51-year-old showed off her sensational figure in the frock, which was formed of nothing but a skimpy black leotard beneath a sheer skirt - displaying most of her long and lean legs and giving a saucy flash of her derriere for all to see, as she paraded the carpet.

Commanding attention: Only adding to the glamour of the evening was Halle Berry, who opted for a more daring and dramatic sheer look of black and purple

Sexy lady: The 51-year-old showed off her sensational figure in the frock, which was formed of nothing but a skimpy black leotard beneath a sheer skirt - displaying most of her long and lean legs and giving a saucy flash of her derriere

Flower power: Keeping the sexy look demure and classy however, the dress then rose into a Victoriana-style high neck, lined with lace, and was patterned with stunning purple flowers all over

Glowing: The former Bond girl swept her hair into a chic bun piled atop her head, and added a thick slick of eyeliner and a nude lip - to draw attention to her youthful and glowing complexion

Leading lady: Halle happily signed autographs as she greeted fans beside the carpet

Happy days: Halle was chatting in depth at the photocall for the long-awaited film

Keeping the sexy look demure and classy however, the dress then rose into a Victoriana-style high neck, lined with lace, and was patterned with stunning purple flowers all over.

Adding height to her already statuesque frame with black heeled sandals, Halle exuded poise and elegance as she posed fiercely for cameras, and waved at adoring fans beside the carpet.

The former Bond girl swept her hair into a chic bun piled atop her head, and added a thick slick of eyeliner and a nude lip - to draw attention to her youthful and glowing complexion.

Meanwhile, Colin Firth, 57, looked every inch the A-lister as he arrived at the premiere with his real-life leading lady, stunning wife Livia, by his side.

Power couple: Meanwhile, Colin Firth, 57, looked every inch the A-lister as he arrived at the premiere with his real-life leading lady, stunning wife Livia, by his side

Dynamic duo: He later swapped his wife to pose with Julianne, as two of the film's biggest stars

Handsome: The star, who plays eye-patch wearing secret service mentor Harry Hart in the spy-comedy flick, slipped on a pair of black rimmed glasses to give himself an extra edge as he happily signed autographs

Looking dapper, Colin donned a black checked fitted suit, teamed with a white shirt and matching printed tie.

The star, who plays eye-patch wearing secret service mentor Harry Hart in the spy-comedy flick, slipped on a pair of black rimmed glasses to give himself an extra suave edge, and styled his salt and pepper locks in a coiffed side part.

Flashing a warm smile and signing autographs, the star looked over the moon to be meeting his fans and spending some quality time with his wife of 20 years Livia.

Meanwhile his glamorous wife Livia wore a stunning black dress with ruffled shoulders which she paired with elegant strappy heels.

Main man: Adding to the suited and booted display was leading man Taron Egerton, who playfully posed for cameras in front of the iconic black cabs in a slick grey three-piece suit, and sleek black tie

Little touches: Following soon after was Jeff Bridges, who plays Champagne "Champ", the head of Statesman, in the flick - arriving in a classic black suit, which he jazzed up with a subtly floral printed tie, and a perfectly combed beard

Hunky: Meanwhile Edward Holcroft certainly had his female fans swooning as he appeared on the carpet in a Polo Ralph Lauren dark grey pinstripe wool double breasted suit, white cotton shirt, purple cashmere tie and black leather dress shoes

Main man: Taron laughed and joked for cameras as he posed on the carpet

Her brunette locks were swept into an elegant chignon and her sparkling peepers were enhanced with fluttery lashes and smoky eyeshadow.

The couple, who share two sons, looked closer than ever as they stood arm in arm at Cineworld in Leicester Square, beside their other co-stars.

Adding to the suited and booted display was leading man Taron Egerton, who playfully posed for cameras in front of the iconic black cabs in a slick grey three-piece suit, and sleek black tie.

Following soon after was Jeff Bridges, who plays Champagne "Champ", the head of Statesman, in the flick - arriving in a classic black suit, which he jazzed up with a subtly floral printed tie, and a perfectly combed beard.

Flapper fabulous: The flick also co-stars Poppy Delevingne, who put on a leggy display in a 1920s inspired beaded dress, complete with fringing on the hem

Sensational: Opting for a shorter number at the event, the sister of model Cara flashed her slender legs in the flapper style frock, completely embellished with bronze sequins and delicate pink diamante flowers

Striking: While she added to the glamour with chic velvet heels, it was the blonde's new bob hairstyle that caught the most attention - left in stylish, tousled waves to frame her perfectly contoured make-up look

Musician Elton John enjoys a cameo as himself, and even stood beside young actor Taron, who it's just been reported will play a young Elton in the story of his life.

The flick also co-stars Poppy Delevingne, who put on a leggy display in a 1920s inspired beaded dress, complete with fringing on the hem.

Opting for a shorter number at the event, the sister of model Cara flashed her slender legs in the flapper style frock, completely embellished with bronze sequins and delicate pink diamante flowers.

While she added to the glamour with chic velvet heels, it was the blonde's new bob hairstyle that caught the most attention - left in stylish, tousled waves to frame her perfectly contoured make-up look.

Keeping all eyes on her dress by ridding herself of accessorises, Poppy cut a truly radiant figure as she beamed widely for cameras beside her co-stars.

White hot: Also attending the premiere was Kylie Minogue, who dazzled as she returned to the spotlight for the first time in five months

Chic: The Spinning Around hitmaker's daring gown featured elegant flared sleeves with golden buttons, with the A-Line skirt flashing her shapely pins

A bit of all-white: The Spinning Around hitmaker's daring gown featured elegant flared sleeves with golden buttons, with the A-Line skirt flashing her shapely pins - which she further elongated with silver peeptoe sandals as she donned De Beers jewellery for the evening

Also attending the premiere was Kylie Minogue, who dazzled as she returned to the spotlight for the first time in five months.

The pop queen, 49, looked sensational in an ivory bardot dress, which featured a daring nude coloured panel, covered in silk patterns, which gave the illusion that the star was flashing her midriff and the top of her toned legs.

The Spinning Around hitmaker's daring gown featured elegant flared sleeves with golden buttons, with the A-Line skirt flashing her shapely pins - which she further elongated with silver peeptoe sandals as she donned De Beers jewellery for the evening.

It was a dazzling return for the Australian star, who was last pictured at a public event back in April when she was invited to Windsor Castle to accept the Britain-Australia Society Award from Prince Philip - following her split from fiance Joshua Sasse, 29.

Glamorous couple: Also attending the event was the film's director Matthew Vaughn, who appeared on the carpet with his stunning supermodel wife Claudia Schiffer

What a pair: The director looked typically trendy in a velvet blazer, black jeans and fedora hat, while the supermodel showed off her famously slender figure in a form-fitting LBD

Fit to bust! The dress was complete with a saucy mesh panel at the chest, to tease at her bra and bust underneath, and patterned with white stripes all over

Also attending the event was the film's director Matthew Vaughn, who appeared on the carpet with his stunning supermodel wife Claudia Schiffer.

The director looked typically trendy in a velvet blazer, black jeans and fedora hat - but appeared to sport a painful foot injury, as he arrived on the carpet via car, with a walking stick in hand. MailOnline has contacted his representatives for comment.

Not letting the injury get in his way however, the famous director, known for his work on Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, adorned the Ugg boot sported on his hurt foot with the famous Kingsman logo, in a fitting finishing touch.

Meanwhile his German supermodel partner showed off her famously slender figure in a form-fitting LBD, complete with a saucy mesh panel at the chest and patterned with white stripes all over.

Keeping warm in the autumnal weather with black tights, the beauty then tied her look together with small patent kitten heels and a quirky box clutch, with the cartoon image of a pair of eyes emblazoned across the front.

Injured: However the director appeared to sport a painful foot injury, as he arrived on the carpet via car beside Elton John (L), with a walking stick in hand

Battling through: Not letting the injury get in his way however, the famous director adorned the Ugg boot sported on his hurt foot with the famous Kingsman logo, in a fitting finishing touch, as he posed with Elton (R)

Stylish: Elton, who plays a fictionalised version of himself in the flick, was joined by his husband David Furnish at the star-studded event

The Golden Circle, which is a sequel to 2015 hit film Kingsman: The Secret Service sees the agents of Kingsman head to the United States to unite with Statesman, Kingsman's American counterpart. after Kingsman's HQ is destroyed by a treacherous crime syndicate called 'The Golden Circle'.

Fans will be overjoyed to see Colin in the flick, who despite dying in the last outing makes an improbable comeback as agent Harry Hart - the details of which remain a closely guarded secret.

After their headquarters are blown up and the world thrown into jeopardy, The Kingsman join forces with their American counterparts The Statesman to prevent disaster.

Director Matthew Vaughn's first film Kingsman: The Secret Service, followed Taron Egerton's Eggsy, an unemployed, troubled Londoner who is recruited by Colin Firth to an independent intelligence agency called The Kingsman, following the career path of his late father.

Tragically, Colin Firth's Harry Hart was killed in the last movie, shot in the head by the maniacal Valentine - played by Samuel L. Jackson. But, audience's were delighted to hear of Harry's mysterious return - now sporting an eye-patch.

In September 2016, while speaking to Collider, Colin remained mum about his return, simply teasing: 'Well, its still my duty to be cryptic about that, so forgive me in being creative in how I dodge that question.'

'Its no secret that Im involved, somewhere and somehow. From what Ive been able to gather, its not going to feel like a conventional sequel. Its going to be something that feels very much its own thing. Im very optimistic about it.'

'I cant give too much away about in what capacity Im back. A lot of people have speculated and a lot of people have come to the wrong conclusions about it. I want to keep the surprise alive, a little longer. I think theyre going to be surprised again.'
They were married for almost ten years before their shock split in June 2015.

But Jennifer Garner didn't look at all fazed as she ran errands in Brentwood, Los Angeles as ex-husband Ben Affleck made a high-profile appearance with new girlfriend Lindsay Shookus across town at the Emmy Awards on Sunday night.

The actress, 45, seemed relaxed as she went about her day, while her former flame supported his Emmy-winning partner during her Hollywood moment in the spotlight at the Microsoft Theater.

Classy: Jennifer Garner ran errands in Brentwood, Los Angeles as ex-husband Ben Affleck made an appearance with new girlfriend Lindsay Shookus across town at the Emmy Awards

Jennifer - who raises three children with Ben - kept casual in a cream knitted jumper, skinny jeans and white sneakers as she went about her day.

The Daredevil star wore a light blue collared shirt underneath her sweatshirt and carried a large black leather woven bag on her forearm.

The mother-of-three tied her chestnut brown hair back into a bun and shielded her eyes from the morning sun with a pair of dark sunglasses.

In a sign their relationship is going from strength to strength, Ben accompanied his producer girlfriend Lindsay to Sunday's Emmy Awards.

Keeping it casual: The actress, 45, seemed relaxed as she went about her day, while her former flame supported his Emmy-winning partner during her Hollywood moment

The Oscar-winning actor, who went public with the romance in July, happily played second fiddle to his new love who was part of the SNL team that won the Emmy for outstanding variety sketch series.

Ben, 45, was captured on camera during the telecast as he stood up to let his 37-year-old girlfriend out to go up on stage.

The star wore a tuxedo while Lindsay rocked a racy sleeveless black gown with side splits.

Making the most of the celebrations, the couple then headed to The Plaza at the Pacific Design Center to the HBO Emmys afterparty with the rest of the SNL cast and crew.

Public show of commitment: Ben accompanied his producer girlfriend Lindsay to Sunday's Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, but skipped the red carpet

They look cozy: Lindsay and Ben with (L-R) Jeff Garlin, Charissa Thompson, Larry David at the HBO party at The Plaza at the Pacific Design Center

The couple had earlier skipped the red carpet and entered the Microsoft Theater via a VIP side entrance, according to E! News.

When SNL won the Emmy, the actor and director 'jumped up and cheered,' an onlooker told UsWeekly.

The insider said: 'He jumped up and cheered when SNL won. He's sitting with all of SNL in the centre of the theatre. He's clearly her plus-one.'

Following the win, the onlooker said the couple were 'holding hands and whispering and smiling.'

She had her hand on him: The Batman v Superman star looked content as his lady love clamped onto his arm as they celebrated a successful night for SNL

Ben Affleck is here at the #Emmys accompanying his girlfriend, who is part of the SNL team pic.twitter.com/EFsnWI9UEP  Scott Feinberg (@ScottFeinberg) September 18, 2017

Winner: Producer Lindsay, in a sleeveless black gown with side splits, took the stage behind Lorne Michaels as SNL won the Emmy for outstanding variety sketch series

Emmy winner,Kate McKinnon waiting to go into the interview room. They even make Ben Affleck wait ;) #emmys pic.twitter.com/qvsGwqY0gG  Gavin Lew (@glew) September 18, 2017

If you want to watch the Emmys tonight from pretty much anywhere, you can with CBS All Access. It costs $5.99 a month, but you can sign up for a free seven-day trial.

Plenty to smile abut: Lindsay put her best foot forward backstage as she posed with her Emmy

Dared to bare: The TV producer, 37, flashed plenty of leg in her dress that was slit to the thigh as she stepped out in towering heels

Doting: Ben, 45, who is separated from wife Jennifer Garner, and Lindsay, 37, who is separated from husband Kevin Miller, confirmed their romance in July (pictured September 9 in NYC)

It's the first official engagement that the two have been seen at since revealing their romance.

Ben has been separated from actress Jennifer Garner since 2015 although the pair are not yet officially divorced.

They filed legal documents in April seeking joint physical and legal custody of their three children - Violet, 11, Seraphina, eight, and Samuel, five.

Lindsay has been separated from husband and Late Night with Seth Meyers supervising producer Kevin Miller since 2014.

They were wed for four years and share a daughter.

The New York Post reported last week that Ben and Lindsay have been spotted shopping for Manhattan apartments together.

Moving in? The couple have become inseparable lately and it was reported by the NY Post last week that they are house-hunting together in the Big Apple
They were pitted against each other in the Outstanding Actress for a Limited Series category at the Emmys.

But there was clearly no ill will between Big Little Lies co-stars Reese Witherspoon, 41 and Nicole Kidman, 50, after the latter emerged the winner at the star-studded ceremony at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

Reese - who was a producer on the HBO drama alongside Nicole - wept with joy as she cuddled up to the Australian actress in a sweet congratulatory snap posted to her Instagram page on Monday.

'Yes, I'm crying': Reese Witherspoon wept with joy as she cuddled up to Big Little Lies co-star Nicole Kidman in a sweet congratulatory Emmys snap posted to her Instagram on Monday

She wrote: 'This was after we won... Yes I'm crying!! So happy! Love you Nicole! #BigLittleLies.'

It was a big night for Big Little Lies, which took home six Emmys in total, including Outstanding Limited Series.

Despite the tears, the Academy Award-winning actress looked radiant in a tailored blue suit dress by Stella McCartney and Louboutin heels.

Reese added large silver David Webb earrings and a large statement ring also from the jeweler, while injecting a bold of color with a slick of red lipstick.

No competition: The pair were pitted against each other in the Outstanding Actress for a Limited Series category at the Emmys, which Nicole won

No blues: The Academy Award-winning actress, 41, looked radiant in a tailored blue suit dress by Stella McCartney and Louboutin heels at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles

Date night: The Walk The Line actress is married to agent Jim Toth, but she took her mother Betty along as her date for the awards night

The Walk The Line actress is married to agent Jim Toth, but she took her mother Betty along as her date for the awards night, before later sitting next to her husband as the show took place.

Reese posted a photo of mother and daughter Ava Phillippe, 18, posing after the show as Nicole's husband Keith Urban stood in the background.

The star later headed to the HBO post-Emmys party at The Plaza at the Pacific Design Center with Ava.

There was a striking similarity between Reese and the daughter she shares with her ex-husband, actor Ryan Phillippe, 42.

Mini-me: There was a striking similarity between Reese and Ava, 18, the daughter she shares with her ex-husband, actor Ryan Phillippe, as they attended the HBO afterparty

Talented: It was a successful night for the cast and crew of the hit HBO drama with Big Little Lies scooping six major prizes, including Outstanding Limited Series

Winners! Nicole and Reese - who starred in and co-produced the HBO drama - couldn't hide their delight as Big Little Lies was named Best Limited Series

So much so that, according to US Weekly, a photographer apparently mistook Ava for her movie star mother at the star-studded event.

Earlier, at the ceremony itself, there was speculation that co-star Laura Dern had snubbed the Legally Blonde actress, as she apparently skipped a hug with Reese while moving to the stage to accept her award for Best Supporting Actress.

But an Instagram post from Saturday seems to indicate there's no drama between the co-stars.

Reese posted a series of playful images of herself with the actress, who played her mother in Wild.

Blood feud: Laura Dern, 50, apparently skipped a hug with Reese while moving to the stage to accept her award for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series

BFFs: But a heartfelt Instagram post from Saturday seems to indicate there's no drama between the co-stars

The images are captioned: 'Late night fun with @lauradern' and '#bff', indicating that far from being upset with each other, the pair are actually besties.

On Sunday, Witherspoon added aSnapchat of Dern at the Emmys.

Titled 'Backstage', the video shows the Jurassic Park actress displaying mock shock at her co-star capturing her for the social media app.

It was a successful night for the cast and crew of the hit HBO drama with Big Little Lies scooping six major prizes, including Outstanding Limited Series.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series went to Nicole Kidman

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series went to Alexander Skarsgard and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series went to Laura Dern.
Sam Heughan bared (nearly) all during the graphic second episode - aptly titled 'Surrender' - of Outlander's third season on Sunday night.

There was a surprisingly gratuitous shot of the 37-year-old Scotsman's nude behind for the usually reserved British-American time-traveling soap.

1752 (six years later) was the first audiences saw of the 6ft3in heartthrob's outlaw character, the Dunbonnet Jamie Fraser, since he survived the Battle of Culloden.

Scroll down for video

Smoulder: Sam Heughan bared (nearly) all during the graphic second episode - aptly titled 'Surrender' - of Outlander's third season on Sunday night

Starved for human touch, the cave-dwelling fugitive took comfort in the arms of Mary MacNab (Emma Campbell-Jones) at his sister Jenny's suggestion while visiting his Lallybroch home.

'[It's] something we both need, something to keep us whole,' Jamie - still longing for Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe) - explained.

Fraser later turned himself into redcoats since a British jail has 'little difference to the prison I live in now.'

Meanwhile in 1940s Boston, Claire seduced her husband Frank (Tobias Menzies) by saying, 'I miss my husband.'

Prosthetic scars: There was a surprisingly gratuitous shot of the 37-year-old Scotsman's nude behind for the usually reserved British-American time-traveling soap

PDA: 1752 (six years later) was the first audiences saw of the 6ft3in heartthrob's outlaw character, the Dunbonnet Jamie Fraser, since he survived the Battle of Culloden

Starved for human touch: The cave-dwelling fugitive took comfort in the arms of Mary MacNab (Emma Campbell-Jones) at his sister Jenny's suggestion while visiting his Lallybroch home

Jamie - still longing for Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe) - explained: '[It's] something we both need, something to keep us whole'

But the medical student - clearly fantasizing about Jamie - refused to open her eyes during the fireside sex session, even at Frank's insistence.

'Claire, when I'm with you, I'm with you. But you're with him,' Frank later said, defeated.

Elsewhere in the episode, Fergus Fraser (Romann Berrux) is brutally punished by redcoats for possessing a contraband pistol.

Jamie watched helplessly as the French pickpocket had his arm chopped off by sword in the woods.

Back it up! Meanwhile in 1940s Boston, Claire seduced her husband Frank (Tobias Menzies) by saying, 'I miss my husband'

Sorry not sorry: But the medical student - clearly fantasizing about Jamie - refused to open her eyes during the fireside sex session, even at Frank's insistence

Frank later said, defeated: 'Claire, when I'm with you, I'm with you. But you're with him'

The complicated special effect involved clever editing, a realistic prosthetic hand, lot's of fake blood pumping, and a green sleeve over Roman's real hand.

Fergus then made a crude gesture with his bloody stump at the British and later joked, 'with one stroke, I've become a man of leisure.'

The gory scene got quite a reaction on social media, with one user called Rachel Luna exclaiming: 'Yooooo wtf they cut his hand off!'

Violence: Elsewhere in the episode, Fergus Fraser (Romann Berrux) is brutally punished by redcoats for possessing a contraband pistol

Ouch! Jamie watched helplessly as the French pickpocket had his arm chopped off by sword in the woods

Yikes! The complicated special effect involved clever editing, a realistic prosthetic hand, lot's of fake blood pumping, and a green sleeve over Roman's real hand

Up yours! Fergus then made a crude gesture with his bloody stump at the British and later joked, 'with one stroke, I've become a man of leisure.'

Another Twitter user called Kamrun shared a 'heartbreaking' snap of 'the close up of Fergus' severed hand abdanoned in the forest.'

And Bitz on Twitter wondered how 'Fergus didnt scream like a banshee' during the horrific scene.

User Mary Maxwell was surprised at Fergus' steeliness, tweeting, 'apparently in the 18th century, losing a hand wasn't really that big of a deal.'

The gory scene got quite a reaction on social media, with one user called Rachel Luna exclaiming: 'Yooooo wtf they cut his hand off!'

'#Outlander': Another Twitter user called Kamrun shared a 'heartbreaking' snap of 'the close up of Fergus' severed hand abdanoned in the forest'

'His poor hand left behind!' And Bitz on Twitter wondered how 'Fergus didnt scream like a banshee' during the horrific scene

'#YouHaveTwoAfterAll': User Mary Maxwell was surprised at Fergus' steeliness, tweeting, 'apparently in the 18th century, losing a hand wasn't really that big of a deal'

'#redcoat': On Instagram, user Lorinda Cockrell admitted she wanted to 'reach through the screen and strangle the imbecile' that hurt Fergus

And Insta user Mabel Vazquez remarked: 'It's all fun and games until someone loses a hand. Love wee Fergus'

On Instagram, user Lorinda Cockrell admitted she wanted to 'reach through the screen and strangle the imbecile' that hurt Fergus.

And Insta user Mabel Vazquez remarked: 'It's all fun and games until someone loses a hand. Love wee Fergus.'

Fans can catch more heated sexual tension between the rebel Highlander and the WWII nurse in the 13-episode third season of Outlander, which continues Sundays on Starz.
She's one of two Hollywood leading ladies to infiltrate a mainly male cast.

And Halle Berry made sure everyone knew why on Monday night, as she made a memorable red carpet appearance at Kingsman: The Golden Circle premiere in London.

Arriving in Leicester Square among a whole host of big names, Halle, 51, stood out in a completely sheer black dress, daringly flashing a skimpy bodice beneath.

Scroll down for video

Berry cheeky indeed! Halle Berry showed off her long legs at the London premiere of Kingsman: The Golden Circle on Monday night

Halle's dress fittingly featured berry-coloured flowers across the see-through skirt and across the bodice as it concealed her braless appearance.

From behind, as she waved to the crowds in London, Halle flashed an eyeful of her cheeky behind and a glimpse at her incredible legs as she navigated the orange stretch of carpet in stilettos.

Actress Halle wore her hair high on her head to let her outfit have full attention but chose to go minimal on the make-up front.

Cheeky: She flashed her pert bottom in the sheer number, which she layered over a black bodice

Showing her shape: The daring dress featured a polka dot skirt that was completely see-through

Working it: The actress went braless under the black number

Leggy look! Halle led the stars of the film as it premiered in London

Halle joins Colin Firth, Taron Egerton and Mark Strong in the sequel of the Kingsman franchise.

The second film also stars Channing Tatum and Jeff Bridges, as well as fellow leading lady Julianne Moore.

The Golden Circle, in which Halle plays Ginger Ale, is a sequel to hit film Kingsman: The Secret Service, which was released in 2015.

Stunning form: Leggy Halle was navigating the red carpet in strappy stilettos

The follow-up sees the agents of Kingsman head to the United States to unite with Statesman, Kingsman's American counterpart after Kingsman's HQ is destroyed by a treacherous crime syndicate called 'The Golden Circle'.

The film is released in the UK on Wednesday.

Actress Halle has joined the cast in London to premiere the film after they came together in Toronto for the International Film Festival.

'Honored to be a part of this illustrious group!' Halle wrote on Instagram on Monday, before premiering the film.

London bound: Halle is in London to promote the film with her co-stars
She's known for her chameleon looks as the cream of the modelling industry.

But Poppy Delevingne went for something totally different as she showcased her new hairdo at the premiere for Kingsman: The Golden Circle in London on Monday.

Poppy, who stars in the new film, styled her new bob in a shaggy style with volume as she joined stars on the orange carpet in Leicester Square.

Scroll down for video

Chop-off! Model Poppy Delevingne, 31, showed off her new shaggy bob at the Kingsman premiere in London on Monday (R). Poppy had been spotted the night before at an Emporio Armani party the night before with a long high ponytail (L)

Poppy teamed her new do with a pink feather and sparkle dress that stood out against the bright carpet.

The model-turned-actress turned heads with her stylish look, which she teamed with gold velvet ankle-strap pumps.

Poppy, who has been married former model James Cook since 2014, is set to appear in the British spy action flick, which will hit UK cinemas on Wednesday.

Top-bob: Little is know about Poppy's role in the film, which will also feature a cameo by music legend Sir Elton John

Bond girl? Poppy got fans hot under the collar in the Kingsman trailer, as she stripped down to racy red lingerie in the spy flick

Poppy got fans hot under the collar in Kingsman trailer, as she stripped down to racy red lingerie for her role, although little is known about her character in the film.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle continues the story of the Bond-esque spies known as Kingsmen, and stars Taron Edgerton, Colin Firth and Julianne Moore.

The first film in the series, Kingsman: The Secret Service was a huge success, leading to hot anticipation for the follow-up, which adds Channing Tatum and Halle Berry to the cast.

Taxi! Poppy posed next to London black cabs at the premiere of the spy flick, which tells the story of James Bond-esque spies known as Kingsmen

Glamour girl: Poppy has started to establish herself in the film industry after a role in the medieval epic King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

This is not Poppy's first role on the big screen, as the starlet previously appeared in medieval epic King Arthur: Legend of the Sword.

However, after her characters ill-fated turn in the film, Poppy hopes her Kingsman character will not meet the same fate.

She told The Evening Standard: 'Ive got to stop dying!'
She is known as a model and body confidence activist.

And Iskra Lawrence showed she practices what she preaches as she showed off her sensational curves in a flesh-flashing ensemble at London Fashion Week on Monday.

The 27-year-old flaunted her ample assets and killer abs in a tiny white crop-top, which also drew attention to her slender waist.

Scroll down for video

Curvaceous: Iskra Lawrence showed she practices what she preaches as she showed off her sensational curves in a flesh-flashing ensemble at London Fashion Week on Monday

The stylish star teamed her ab flashing top with a pair of high-waisted pinstriped palazzo pants with she paired with simple white stiletto heels.

Her platinum tresses were styled into an elegant half updo and flowing over her shoulders.

Emphasising her natural beauty, the star opted for a light dusting of make-up, including mascara, white eyeshadow, highlighter and a slick of rose lipstick.

She accessorised with the Aspinal taupe Lottie bag.

The star attended both the Aspinal of London presentation and the Pringle of Scotland show.

Ab-tastic: The 27-year-old flaunted her ample assets and killer abs in a tiny white crop-top, which also drew attention to her slender waist

Chic: Emphasising her natural beauty, the star opted for a light dusting of make-up, including mascara, white eyeshadow, highlighter and a slick of rose lipstick

She has been a regular at London Fashion Week, attending the Malone Souliers and Markus Lupfer shows, as well as the Emporio Armani party.

Iskra, who is originally from Worcestershire, has arrived back in London after New York's own fashion week, where she attended the Badgley Mischka and Marchesa shows.

It is no wonder the blonde, who is a size 14, has bagged so many high-profile invites, after forging a successful modelling career, with the aim to change the industry's perceptions on beauty and size.

Elegant: She has been a regular at London Fashion Week, attending the Malone Souliers and Markus Lupfer shows, as well as the Emporio Armani party

A passionate advocate for body confidence, the blonde spoke out about unattainable beauty standards in the fashion world in an interview earlier this week.

'The whole concept of Photoshop is an illusion,' she said. 'They're not flaws. They're part of your body. We were just convinced by society and the media that there was something wrong with them.'

She also described how she realised at 18 that instead of trying to change her body to fit into sample sizes, she 'would try to change the industry'.

In recent years she has become known for her empowerment movement, and often shares inspiring images and quotes about body confidence on her Instagram page.
Kim Kardashian manages to drum up fresh looks weekly much to the delight of her fans.

On Monday the 36-year-old reality TV star looked almost ghostly as she showed off her tummy in a crop top while leaving an LA taping of her Keeping Up With The Kardashians show, which comes back for another season in October.

This comes after the pinup told Allure she was in the best shape of her life.

A vision in white: Kim Kardashian turned on the sex appeal as she left a taping of her show Keeping Up With The Kardashians on Monday

Spooky: The 36-year-old reality TV star looked almost ghostly as she wore white and light grey

The wife of Kanye West wore an interesting cut-up and twisted white crop top that looked like it could be made at home with the help of a pair of scissors and a simple white Hanes T-shirt in extra small.

The cover girl added great sweatpants and bone colored pointy boots.

The mother of two wore her hair down in a sexy bed head style and her makeup was subdued but flattering.

DIY: The wife of Kanye West wore an interesting cut-up and twisted white crop top that looked like it could be made at home with the help of a pair of scissors and a simple white Hanes T-shirt

The new it look: The cover girl added great sweatpants and bone colored pointy boots

Instead of a big rock, she had on just a small wedding band as she has vowed to not wear as much bling since her October Paris heist.

Kim was alone as she left the building that had big glass doors and a bench outside.

Earlier in the day her October issue of Allure was released.

Wild for a Monday: The mother of two wore her hair down in a sexy bed head style and her makeup was subdued but flattering

The TV icon talked her body. The writer notes Kim orders eggs and a muffin when they meet at the Bacarat hotel in NYC, but she never eats the muffin.

'I'm, like, the most fit I've ever been,' the star says.

She also said she had an amazing transformation after she had a baby. Now Kims working out an hour and a half a day.

No ice baby: Instead of a big rock, she had on just a small wedding band as she has vowed to not wear as much bling since her October Paris heist

Kim then talked posing naked. 'My publicist would say to me, "Youre not getting naked. I have to be there."'

She adds there is an age limit to getting naked.

'Im like, "Im going to tone it down." But then Im like, Wait, I cant be doing it in 10 years, so  I might as well. I dont know what the age cutoff is.'

The star also said she had a bad feeling before her fateful Paris trip because she thought she could be the victim of a terrorist attack.

Her latest closeup: The icon took the October cover of Allure magazine

The cover without cover lines: Here is another close-up of the world's most famous reality TV star

She even went to see a therapist about it.

Her daughter North noticed her tension and tried to soothe her fears with a gift.

'She gave me a little plastic treasure box, and she put her little jewels in it  like fake little plastic jewels  and she was like, "Mommy, this will keep you safe when you go to Paris,"' said the daughter of Kris Jenner.

Soothing: The fame queen said her daughter North sensed her fear and gave her a toy jewelry box to calm her down in October

Kim said that she will never forget the gesture of her four-year-old daughter.

'To have something really sweet like that is more important to me than all the jewelry,' the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star said.

Kim then tells the reporter that she takes the box everywhere with her.

The Paris robbery also made her less materialistic.

Pared down: 'We dont do gifts,' she said. And she limits what North and Saint get. '[Kanye and I] talk about it all the time, about not getting too much and trying to be as grounded and well rounded as possible,' she said

'We dont do gifts,' she said.

And she limits what North and Saint get.

'[Kanye and I] talk about it all the time, about not getting too much and trying to be as grounded and well rounded as possible,' she said.

The Simple Life? 'I dont like presents anymore. We just did absolutely nothing [for our anniversary]. We spent two days in Santa Barbara, and we slept,' she said

'I dont like presents anymore.

'We just did absolutely nothing [for our anniversary]. We spent two days in Santa Barbara, and we slept. Then she remembers: You know what? I think we went to IHOP. Thats what we did.'

She as styled by Beth Fenton with hair by Garren of Garren New York and makeup by Pat McGrath.
Advertisement

He managed to fill the front row with star-studded attendees, desperate to see his Spring/Summer 2018 offerings.

But Julien Macdonald called upon some of the biggest names in the modelling industry on Monday night, to bring his London Fashion Week showcase alive at Bankside Vaults.

Led by Canadian stunner Winnie Harlow, catwalk queens including Alessandra Ambrosio and Martha Hunt paraded out in extremely scanty ensembles, most of which looked like they were designed to be worn without underwear.

Scroll down for video

Leader of the pack: Winnie Harlow lead the way for a star-studded runway on Monday night, at the Julien Macdonald show during London Fashion Week

Winnie, who has the rare skin condition vitiligo, was dressed in a tiny tutu dress, under which she simply wore black knickers and little else.

With her raven locks left long behind her back, Winnie practised her runway strut with conviction in perspex heels that were barely visible on her feet.

She was joined by Hailey Baldwin, the daughter of actor Stephen Baldwin, as well as top Victoria's Secret models Alessandra and Martha.

Little to the imagination: Winnie joined Martha Hunt (centre) and Alessandra Ambrosio (right) in a racy runway

Congratulations: Julien was brought out to a standing ovation at Bankside Vaults

Hands in the air: Julien was surrounded by the best models in the business, including Alessandra Ambrosio (right)

Walk on: Wearing barely anything, Winnie made quite the runway strut in her black heels

Going for it: Party girl Winnie threw her hands in the air to celebrate the end of the show

Mother-of-two Alessandra, 36, demonstrated why she's so highly in demand for modelling lingerie, when she walked out in a very high-cut bodice with just a sarong style sheer fabric draped over the front.

She couldn't be missed in eye-catching blue, which featured glitter detail throughout and some added shimmer on the bust.

Alessandra was taking the catwalk and dazzling in a beautiful CIROC luxury vodka inspired dress. The CIROC Utopia dress was designed exclusively for Alessandra by the legendary designer.

Speaking afterwards Alessandra Ambrosio said, 'What an incredible way to finale the wonderful week of celebrations in London! I was happy when Julien Macdonald designed this dress for me  especially one that is perfect for celebratory occasions!

'Wearing the CIROC Utopia dress on tonight's catwalk was an amazing occasion and definitely one of great on arrival moments to date!'

Meanwhile, Martha modelled two outfits; one in a simple silver mesh - which made undergarments a tricky option - and another featuring an exquisite drop hem that followed behind her like a glamorous cape.

Working it: The models stood in formation, following a noteworthy show in London

Top model: Alessandra dazzled in a blue number, which flashed through to a high-cut bodysuit underneath

Scantily-clad: Hailey Baldwin wore two variations on a very minimal black ensemble with peep toe boots

Julien Macdonald's cutting-edge designs for SS18 thrilled onlookers with a 'parallel universe' concept.

The eye-catching partywear collection featured spring-like brights of green and cobalt but played on the theme of lingerie - whether it was drawing attention to, or lack thereof.

The new collection juxtaposes Julien's iconic, signature silhouettes with a futuristic, streamlined glamour. High-voltage, form-fitting pieces in molten shades of gold, silver, black and pewter interspersed with flashes of scarlet, ombre sapphire blue and yellow, transport guests to a modern Utopia.

An array of intricate beadwork, crystal mesh and lace appear on liquid sheath dresses, knitted catsuits and sports enhanced separates like an other worldly, embellished second skin. Nocturnal foliage motifs appear on flowing silk chiffon recalling the designer's trip to the Amazonian rainforest and resulting in a captivating fashion experience in the heart of London.

Julien was brought out with a standing ovation from the crowd as the models swarmed the designer and - to set off the glittering show - ribbon foil fell from the ceiling.

Standing tall: The beautiful blonde bombshell owned the catwalk in a second, green ensemble

Leggy looks: The looks were feverishly daring and designed to be worn without lingerie in some cases

He was dressed in all black, so as not to detract from the new collection on the models, but looked proud to be presenting yet another eponymous collection.

Guests with front row tickets included Amanda Holden, Lisa Snowdon and Storm Keating as well as British actress Sheridan Smith.

Amanda also brought along her lookalike daughter Lexi for the exciting experience because she has a keen eye for genuine fashion and style.

The Britain's Got Talent judge said of the designer: 'Julien knows how to show off our best bits. My daughter is interested in modelling and fashion and stuff so shes here with me.'

Having a ball: Amanda Holden and daughter Lexi shared the star-studded front row with Ronan Keating (right) and his wife Storm on the FROW

Mother-daughter duo: Amanda was joined by her younger daughter Lexi, 11, at the bash - who bore a striking resemblance to her glamorous mother with the same flowing locks

Going for gold! Model Lisa Snowdon, 45, was truly stunning in a slinky midi frock, which hugged her show-stopping curves from head to toe with its gold chain-mail material, embellished with dazzling metallic jewels all over

Julien Macdonald said: 'My SS18 collection has been designed with elegant, strong and body confident women and men in mind and showcases looks that are inspired by a modern Utopia and my recent trips to the Amazonian rainforest.

'This season, I wanted to provide the ultimate balance between my signature high-octane red carpet wear and the sense of entering a new world.

'I have given my second-skin, highly embellished pieces a stronger, sportier edge. Alessandra Ambrosio and CIROC are the perfect partners to collaborate with for London Fashion Week as she embodies the powerful, independent women I dress and CIROC represents the luxury lifestyle we all aspire to.

'I designed the CIROC Utopia dress, featuring the brand's signature ombre sapphire blue, to capture CIROC's energy and 'On Arrival' campaign.'

Suits you, Rachel! Stevens made a striking appearance in a smart caramel coloured jacket which featured gorgeous glittery buttons at the LFW show

Youthful: The S Club 7 singer, 39, accentuated her features with deftly touches of make-up

How to accessorise: The chart topper toted a PVC bag which featured a series of tassels along the side of the bag

Step up: She sashayed through the venue in pointed sky-high stilettos for the occasion

Stunner: Caprice, 45, got pulses racing when she showed off her cleavage in the daring neckline of her latex dress

Standing tall: The London-based beauty was the picture of confidence when she sashayed through the venue in killer sky-high heels

Dressed to impress: The Californian native oozed sex appeal as she slipped her envy-inducing curves into the slinky PVC frock

Youthful: Age-defying Caprice showed her beauty had stood the test of time, accentuating her youthful features with dramatic eye make-up and a slick of scarlet lipstick

In good company: She joined Lisa Snowdon, Lilah Parson and Sarah-Jane Crawford in the front row at the show

Model moment: Lisa Snowdon showed off her sartorial flair as she made a dazzling appearance

Golden goddess: The brunette beauty, 45, showed off her hourglass curves in a stunning gold semi-sheer dress, with metallic sequins running down the arms, bust and hips of the dress

Glowing: The star's sparkling peepers were enhanced with metallic eyeshadow, feline flicks of liner and and fluttery lashes

It's all relative! Amanda and her daughter Lexi dressed in similar ensembles to show off their similarities

What a pair: The mother and daughter posed up a storm at the London Fashion Week event

Protective: Amanda wrapped her arm around Lexi's waist as they proved inseparable at the event

Mother like daughter! The pair both let their golden locks down and opted for black boots for the occasion

Must be love: Amanda affectionately cupped her daughter's petal-shaped face showing how close they are

Cosy up! The mother and daughter happily joined the loved-up married couple Ronan and Storm at the front row

How to accessorise: Lexi showed she has picked up a few style tips from her mother as she toted a scarlet handbag which contrasted with her black ensemble for an edgy effect

Posing up a Storm! Tallia, 18, went braless in the plunging blouse when she attended the Julien Mcdonald's show for London Fashion Week on Monday

Completing the look: Brooklyn Beckham's rumoured flame put the theatrics into her racy ensemble as she slipped her phenomenal figure into a pair of form-fitting flares

She's gorgeous: The stunner wore her trademark golden locks in beachy waves which kissed the edges of her face in a cropped style

Added height: Tallia showcased her pointed sky-high stilettos which added to her height
They've been married for four years.

But it's clear Kate Bosworth and husband Michael Polish are still in the honeymoon phase.

The couple held hands tightly, as they made time for a relaxing stroll through New York.

Stylish stroll: Kate Bosworth looked chic as can be while taking a stroll with husband Michael Polish in New York on Monday

Kate looked supremely chic in shades of black, brown and gold alongside her director love.

Last week, the actress/producer called out the sexist way Hollywood films are cast, explaining that without 'exception,' producers cast male actors ahead of female talent during a chat withPeople.

In the new pictures the producer/actress, 34, glowed while stepping onto the street in a lacy cami tucked into a pencil skirt.

Looking effortlessly poised, the Blue Crush beauty tossed a camel colored coat over one shoulder while slinging a crossbody Miu Miu purse across her front.

Pencil me in! The producer/actress, 34, glowed while stepping onto the street in a lacy cami tucked into a pencil skirt

Pointy gold heels rounded out the look along with bold hoops, square sunglasses and a perky topknot.

The California girl held hands with her husband of four years, who looked laid back in a hat, aviator sunglasses and long-sleeved tee.

Last Thursday, Kate opened up about one of the ways sexism still pervades filmmaking, explaining that projects always 'cast the guy first.'

The Still Alice talent didn't mask her frustration during the chat with People.

'The one thing I heard on every single film  and Im telling you there isnt an exception  whenever Im up for a role, really no matter how big or small, the answer that I always get from anyone who's casting me [is], "We have to cast the guy first."'

Teamwork! The star currently has three exec producer credits; for 2014's Amnesiac, as well as Hot Bot and Nona, which were all directed by husband Michael (above September 7)

'Every single one, there is no exception,' she added. 'Unless Im producing it.'

The star currently has three exec producer credits; for 2014's Amnesiac, as well as Hot Bot and Nona, which were all directed by husband Michael.

Kate continued, stressing the importance of calling out inequality in the industry.

'Its important to say, "Lets look at this in an equal way. Lets look at who to cast or who to bring on or who to collaborate with because theyre great or because theyre right for it",' she said.
Azealia Banks posed completely nude, with her modesty preserved by nothing more than flecks of gold body paint on Monday.

But rather than be impressed by her shapely figure, fans instead flocked to compare her to Tokyo Toni - the mother of reality star Blac Chyna.

At 45-years-of-age, Tokyo is 19 years the rapper's senior and is unlikely to have been her inspiration for the raunchy photo.

Golden girl: Azealia Banks posed in little more than gold flakes and a necklace for this photo that surfaced online Monday

The revealing picture showed the 212 musician with gold flakes adorning her body and metallic paint on her hands.

Her dark curly locks cascade down her back in the shot as she pushes her incredible bust towards the camera.

One fan wrote: 'Looks like Tokyo Toni' with a cat emoji.

The sentiment was echoed as another wrote: 'I thought that was Blac Chyna's mom'.

Another dubbed Banks 'Tokyo's other daughter.'

Mistaken identity: Fans were quick to add comments to the photo saying that Banks resembled Blac Chyna's mom Tokyo Toni (L) seen here in 2015

The fans have spoken: Many drew the comparison between Azealia and Tokyo Toni

Echoed: Another fan wrote that they thought Azealia was 'Blac chynas mom'

Sister act: A slightly more polite fan mentioned that Banks could pass at Blac Chyna's sister

Azealia has been busy touring across the globe, performing in Istanbul on Friday.

The outspoken star took to the stage to perform songs from her discography including her breakthrough hit 212.

Decked out in a black tube top, short frayed shorts and black gloves, Banks wowed the crowd with her talent.

Touring act: Azealia hit the stage for a performance at Garage in Istanbul, Turkey on Friday

The long and short of it: Banks wore a tiny tube top and short shorts with her very long locks

On Monday night, it was announced her set at the Nervo Nation festival in Ibiza was cancelled.

However, an hour before the show began it was confirmed she would be taking the stage after all.

Banks will embark on a North American tour starting October 3rd in Grand Rapids, Missouri and ending on October 31 in San Diego, California.

Hear her roar: The 212 rapper made her way through her collection of songs at the concert




Rohingya refugees sit under a shelter during rainfall at Thangkhali refugee camp in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district on September 17, 2017

Heavy monsoon rain heaped new misery Sunday on hundreds of thousands of Muslim Rohinyga stuck in makeshift camps in Bangladesh after fleeing violence in Myanmar, as authorities started a drive to force them to a new site.

With food and water shortages already making life tough, torrential rain brought back swamp-like conditions to many parts of the border town of Cox's Bazar which has become a magnet for the Rohingya.

About 7.7 centimetres (three inches) of rain fell in 24 hours and more is predicted in the next two days, the Bangladesh Weather Department said.

Bangladesh authorities, who have already issued travel restrictions on the Rohingya, launched an operation late Saturday to get tens of thousands out of roadside camps and hillside shanties into a giant new camp.

The United Nations says 409,000 Rohingyas have now overwhelmed Cox's Bazar since August 25 when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar launched operations in Rakhine state.

As existing camps are already full with 300,000 Rohingya fleeing earlier violence, many of the Rohingya have been forced to live in the open air or under flimsy plastic sheets.

Police toured streets with loudspeakers ordering exhausted families to go to the Balukhali camp in Cox's Bazar, which is being cleared to build new shelters.

"We are shifting them from the roadsides where many of them have been staying," Khaled Mahmud, a government spokesman for Cox's Bazar district told AFP.

Mahmud said gradually all the new Rohingya would be taken to Balukhali to bring order to the chaotic aid operation.

On Sunday Myanmar's government hinted that it may not take back Rohingya who fled across the border, accusing those refugees of having links to the militants.

Monsoon rain amid a drive to move hundreds of thousands of Muslim Rohingya out of makeshift camps added to the misery of the refugees who have fled violence in Myanmar for Bangladesh

"Those who fled the villages made their way to the other country for fear of being arrested as they got involved in the violent attacks. Legal protection will be given to the villages whose residents did not flee," the government's Information Committee statement said.

Previous statements have said the country will set up relief shelters in northern Rakhine for Muslims "who can guarantee they are in no way connected to the terrorists".

- 'Disaster unfolding' -

On Saturday, Bangladesh police issued tough new orders banning the Rohingya from moving out of designated areas. The order even prevented them from taking shelter with friends and relatives.

Checkpoints have been set up at key transit points.

With thousands more Rohingya arriving each day, Bangladesh authorities fear the refugees could swamp other towns and cities across the country.

But the United Nations is already warning of intolerable conditions in the camps around Cox's Bazar.

The rain "has doubled their misery", said Mohammed Kai-Kislu, police chief at Ukhia near Cox's Bazar, the new home for many Rohingya.

Aid workers said thousands of Rohingya were drenched by the return of the monsoon after a respite of a few days.

Arfa Begum and seven of her family tried to hide under rubber trees near the Balukhali settlement where they arrived five days earlier.

"They evicted us from the rubber plantation," she said, referring to the police and border guards forcing the refugees out of makeshift shelters.

"It took hours to find a safe place. We were drenched," she told AFP.

Faced with a spreading mudbath, the Rohingya have started building bamboo carpets to get over flooded land.

Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh's Balukhali refugee camp on September 17, 2017

A human rights expert in Cox's Bazar urged the government to shut local schools for three days to allow the Rohingya to camp in them.

"It is another disaster unfolding. Thousands of Rohingya had no place to hide when the rain came," Nur Khan Liton, who headed Bangladeshi rights group Ain O Salish Kendra, told AFP.

He said moving the Rohingya from roadsides and open spaces should be halted as it was compounding their troubles.

- Suu Kyi to give speech -

Conditions deteriorated for the Rohingya in what could be a key week in the crisis.

Myanmar's de-facto leader, Aung San Suu Kyi is to give a nationally televised speech on the Rohingya case on Tuesday.

The Nobel peace laureate, much criticised around the world for not condemning the violence against the Rohingya, must address the global outrage while not angering the military, which maintains huge power.

General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's globe-trotting army chief, called for a "united" stance in handling the crisis but gave no sign of concessions.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has arrived at the UN General Assembly in New York to press for greater help coping with the refugees and put more pressure on Myanmar over the case.

She is to address the UN assembly on Thursday.
The much-maligned former White House press secretary Sean Spicer delighted the Emmys audience with a surprise appearance

Sean Spicer, the former White House press secretary whose full-throated defense of Donald Trump earned him derision on television, delighted his former tormentors in a surprise appearance at Sunday's Emmys.

Spicer, who resigned in July in one of the many shake-ups of Trump's White House, was the highlight of Stephen Colbert's opening monologue which took a heavily political tone.

When Colbert asked how many people were watching television's award gala, Spicer slid onto the Los Angeles stage behind a White House-style podium and declared, "This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person and around the world."

The remarks were a reference to Spicer's jaw-dropping assertion at the very start of his tenure that Trump's inauguration was the most attended ever, pressing the president's claims despite photographic evidence to the contrary.

Spicer's tongue-in-cheek cameo stunned and delighted the Emmys audience including "Saturday Night Live" comedian Melissa McCarthy, who picked up a Creative Arts statuette for her "Unhinged Spicey" impersonation of him.

Spicer's appearance was all the more startling as both he and Trump had criticized "Saturday Night Live," complaining that the popular NBC show was out of line for its persistent satire of the administration.

"Saturday Night Live" won Sunday for best variety sketch series, the show's Kate McKinnon a.k.a. Hillary Clinton won as best supporting actress in a comedy and Alec Baldwin was tapped as best supporting actor in a comedy for his Trump impersonation.

Baldwin, speaking to reporters backstage after winning his award, praised Spicer for having the good grace to turn up before the liberal-skewing Hollywood crowd.

"I've done some jobs or things that you shouldn't admire or respect," Baldwin said. "He and I have that in common."

Show host Colbert, known for his left-leaning comedy, kept his wit on Trump during his monologue. He recalled the future president's past complaints that the Emmys were rigged for not honoring his reality show "Celebrity Apprentice."

The comedian quipped that the crowd at the Emmys bore responsibility for Trump as he may not have sought the White House had he won an award.

"But he didn't. Because unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote," he said, touching another sore point for Trump.

Colbert acknowledged his humor was in front of a friendly audience, asking: "Where do I find the courage to tell that joke in this room?"
AKL01-NZEALAND-LORDRINGS-AIRNZ

Thousands of airline passengers were stranded in Auckland Monday after a pipeline leak cut jet fuel supplies to New Zealand's largest airport, forcing planes to remain grounded, authorities said.

The pipeline operator, Refining NZ, said repairs would take at least a week, possibly two, raising the prospect of ongoing major disruption.

Air New Zealand said 2,000 passengers were affected by flight cancellations on Monday alone as it attempted to minimise fuel usage.

It said the leak meant fuel supplies at Auckland airport were down to 30 percent of normal capacity and some long-haul flights were having to make additional refuelling stops in Brisbane and Fiji.

"Aviation is a critical transport industry and the lifeblood for tourism. We are naturally extremely disappointed with this infrastructure failure," the airline said.

Refining NZ said it believed the pipeline from its refinery to the airport was accidentally damaged by a digger and a 30-strong team was working around the clock to fix the pipe.

But the danger posed by spilled fuel was slowing progress.

"We need to be absolutely clear that it is safe to work in before we can start welding in the new section of pipe," it said.

Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett said it was not the government's fault that such an important piece of infrastructure had been left so vulnerable.

"It's a private company that owns it and you would expect them to have better contingency plans," she told Radio New Zealand.

"(It's) a very rare occurrence, it hasnt happened for 30 years and we don't expect it to happen again."
Coral eating starfish are seen in Australia's Great Barrier Reef, which has lost more than half its coral cover in the past 27 years due to storms, poisonous starfish and bleaching linked to climate change

A giant starfish-eating snail could be unleashed to help save the Great Barrier Reef, officials said Monday, with a trial underway to breed thousands of the rare species.

Predatory crown-of-thorns starfish, which munch coral, are naturally-occurring but have proliferated due to pollution and agricultural run-off at the struggling World Heritage-listed ecosystem.

Their impact has been profound with a major study of the 2,300-kilometre (1,400-mile) long reef's health in 2012 showing coral cover halved over the past 27 years, with 42 percent of the damage attributed to the pest.

Now Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) research has shown they avoid areas where the Pacific triton sea snail -- also known as the giant triton -- is present.

The snails -- which can grow to half a metre -- have a well developed sense of smell and can hunt their prey by scent alone.

Research showed they were particularly fond of crown-of-thorns, but only eat a few each week, and with the snail almost hunted to extinction for their shells, there are not many left.

This led the Australian government to on Monday announce funding to research breeding them.

"The possibilities the triton breeding project opens up are exciting," said Queensland federal MP Warren Entsch.

The crown-of-thorns starfish

"If successful, this research will allow scientists to closely look at the impact of giant tritons on crown-of-thorns behaviour and test their potential as a management tool to help reduce coral lost to outbreaks."

Giant tritons held at AIMS have laid numerous teardrop-shaped egg capsules, with over 100,000 swimming larvae hatching in the last month. But they are so rare, almost nothing is known about their life cycle.

The eight snails that AIMS have took them two years to collect.

"We really don't know anything about them, what they eat, whether they're nocturnal or not, and this is the first real attempt to breed them," Cherie Motti, the marine ecologist leading the breeding program, told AFP.

- Natural predator -

Her research will focus on helping the larvae transition to their juvenile and adult stages, providing valuable insights into their biology, with the ultimate aim to deploy them to prevent crown-of-thorns aggregating closely during spawning seasons.

"If we can have a natural predator doing the job for us (killing the starfish), it will be the best outcome," said Motti.

Marine chemical ecologist Dr. Cherie Motti, who is leading the breeding program of the Pacific triton sea snail, or giant triton, is seen at a research facility near Townsville in Queensland

"There is a still a long way to go. We hope to learn more this year and within two years have babies growing happily."

Until now expensive chemicals such as bile salts have been used to try and eradicate the starfish, but they can harm other marine organisms.

In April, research showed they can be safely killed by common household vinegar, but dive teams would need to individually inject each starfish before it dies and breaks-up, making it a massive job with a estimated 10 million of them on the reef.

The Great Barrier Reef, the largest living structure on Earth, is also reeling from an unprecedented second straight year of coral bleaching due to warming sea temperatures linked to climate change.

In May, Australia hosted a summit of more than 70 of the world's leading marine experts to work on a blueprint on how best to respond to the threats facing the reef.

Options explored included developing coral nurseries, strategies to boost culling of crown-of-thorns, expanding monitoring systems and identifying priority sites for coral restoration.
The violence in Kasai has prompted waves of terrified people to seek shelter in camps -- among them Jamman, seen here waiting for the daily food ration in Kikwit. Jamman's parents were allegedly both beheaded

After more than a year of bloodshed, faint hopes of peace are starting to stir in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the vast region of Kasai, the authorities are now starting to register voters -- an outwardly banal operation that is nonetheless key to securing the country's stability.

"It's telling proof that peace has returned to the greater Kasai area," Bernard Kambala Kamilolo, the acting governor of Kasai Central province, said as the registration process got underway.

Mired in poverty and with a reputation for corruption, DR Congo -- a country nearly twice the area of Britain, France and Germany combined -- has a long history of violence, especially in its volatile east.

The diamond-rich Kasai region was deemed a relative haven until August 2016, when a tribal chieftain known as the Kamwina Nsapu, who had rebelled against President Joseph Kabila's regime in Kinshasa and its local representatives, was killed.

According to UN figures, clashes between local groups and government troops have lead to more than 3,000 deaths, and around 1.4 million people have fled their homes.

The alleged catalogue of violence includes extrajudicial killings, rapes, torture and the use of child soldiers, along with the torching of villages and the systematic destruction of schools, public buildings and clinics.

The big hope is that voter registration in the Kasai will open the door for a solution to DR Congo's dangerous political standoff.

The country was plunged into crisis last year after Kabila -- in office since he succeeded his murdered father in 2001 -- failed to stand down at the end of what was supposed to be his final term, according to the country's constitution.

On New Year's Eve a deal was cut by the regime and the opposition to hold elections by the end of 2017.

But no electoral calendar has been published so far, and there seems no sign of an end to the impasse as Kabila hangs on.

Among the greatest obstacles to holding the ballot is the turmoil in the Kasai provinces -- although the authorities have registered 42 million electors in the country's 24 other provinces.

- Precious card -

The start of the registration drive on Tuesday shed light on voters' craving for stability as well as the long road that lies ahead.

At a registration centre inside a Catholic school in Kananga, people formed long lines, eager to acquire a voter's card.

Glody Kabongo said he had got up at dawn in preparation for a six-hour wait but he was unfazed, because the coveted document also serves as an important ID card.

"I am very happy, because I'm a student and this card will save me a lot of hassle," he told AFP.

In Kananga's Nganza district, which has been badly hit in the violence, the turnout was far less -- many people have fled, said Mamie Kakubi, the local mayor.

"I am determined to stay here as long as it takes to get my card," said Emery Nondo, a man in his fifties.

"It means I can vote to choose leaders who will improve security in our province."

- Worries for 2017 elections -

Registration so far has been opened only in Kananga and another city in the Kasai, Tshikapa. People are still being trained to carry out the registration procedure, and it will take time to extend the drive to rural areas.

The laborious campaign will have an important knock-on effect for the national timetable.

Under the law, voter registration in the Kasai has to last 90 days from when the final registration office is open.

That badly compromises the aim of having presidential, legislative and provincial elections take place "in December 2017 at the latest," as the New Year's Eve deal, brokered by the influential Catholic church, stipulates.

Last week, Pope Francis' representative in DR Congo sternly warned that the pontiff would not visit Kinshasa until the elections were held.

"The (Congolese) state has a tradition of being a predatory state," Monsignor Luis Mariano Montemayor said.
Iraqi Kurds fly Kurdish flags during an event to urge people to vote in the upcoming independence referendum in Arbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq, on September 16, 2017

An Iraqi Kurdish plan to hold a September 25 independence referendum, which has hit a legal roadblock with just a week to go, is more of a tool to pressure Baghdad than a step towards actual secession, observers say.

Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani announced the referendum in June and has stuck to his course despite strong opposition from regional powers, the Kurds' international backers and the central government in Baghdad, which considers it unconstitutional.

On Monday, the supreme court in Baghdad stepped in at the request of lawmakers including Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi. It ordered a suspension until judges determine whether the poll violates the constitution.

There was no immediate reaction from Barzani's Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), but streets in the northern region's capital of Arbil remain festooned with red, white and green Kurdish flags and huge crowds have gathered at rallies to support the vote.

The result seems a foregone conclusion. The Kurds -- more than 30 million people spread across Iraq, Turkey, Iran and Syria -- have long sought their own state.

But with the United States and United Nations opposing the vote along with Baghdad, Turkey and Iran, the Kurds' chances of actually gaining independence are slim.

Instead, observers say, Barzani is using the referendum as leverage in the KRG's longstanding disputes with federal authorities.

He is hoping the referendum will deliver "wide-ranging benefits" on issues including oil exports, budget payments and control of ethnically divided areas, Karim Pakzad of the Paris-based Institute for International and Strategic Affairs (IRIS) told AFP.

He said the Kurdish leader wants to pressure Baghdad to resume paying the cash-strapped Kurdish region its share of the national budget, long blocked over the autonomous region's unilateral oil sales.

- Economic crisis -

Barzani is aiming to win "a greater political and economic role and recognition of the Kurds' right to exploit and export oil from the north," Pakzad added.

The other key bone of contention is control of areas with mixed populations of Kurds, Arabs and other groups.

The KRG has already expanded the territory it effectively controls and its peshmerga forces have seized areas outside its borders from the jihadists of the Islamic State group.

But some observers are warning that Barzani's power play is a dangerous gamble, raising the threat of sectarian clashes.

The oil-rich province of Kirkuk in particular has become a tinderbox.

Home to numerous minorities, it voted in August to take part in the referendum in defiance of Baghdad.

A former Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga fighter walks near the citadel in Arbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq, as he heads to a gathering to urge people to vote in the upcoming independence referendum, on September 13, 2017

The government responded by sacking Kirkuk's Kurdish governor, who has refused to leave his post. Rival communities are reportedly stockpiling arms in anticipation of clashes.

Hadi al-Ameri, head of the powerful Iranian-backed Badr organisation, has vowed to defend the unity of Iraq, warning that the poll could trigger partition and civil war.

Pressure has mounted to delay the vote, with Washington urging the KRG to resolve its differences with Baghdad without dividing Iraq.

Washington argues that the vote will weaken Arab-Kurdish joint military operations which have helped send IS into retreat in both Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

The US and other Western nations support a UN-backed alternative plan for immediate talks on future relations, providing the referendum is dropped.

- Turnout is real test -

Turkey, worried that the poll will stir separatist ambitions among its own Kurdish minority, has threatened Kurdistan it will pay "a price" in the event of a "yes" vote.

The autonomous region's economy is heavily dependent on oil exports via a pipeline through Turkey to the Mediterranean.

Israel is alone in openly supporting Kurdish independence.

KRG officials have sought to downplay concerns, with the Iraqi Kurdish envoy to Iran Nazem Dabbagh saying in July the referendum was more about "solving problems with Iraq" than breaking away.

Barzani has said a "yes" vote would not lead to a unilateral declaration of independence but rather kick-start "serious discussions" with Baghdad.

Some believe the vote is also designed to help Barzani stay in power, two years after his mandate as president expired.

Kurdish officials have said the real test in the referendum will not be the result itself but the level of participation. Anything less than 70 percent would be a failure, they said.

Some Iraqi Kurds oppose the vote, especially among Barzani's political rivals.

Rebwar Khudar of the KRG's Jamaa Islamiya opposition movement said the referendum was premature.

An Iraqi Kurdish man decorates a car with a poster bearing the image of Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani and urging others to vote in the September independence referendum, in Arbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq

"Before the referendum, we must put our Kurdish internal affairs in order and hold a real dialogue with our neighbouring countries so they will support us," he said.

But in Arbil, many relish the chance to finally vote for their independence.

Berwar Aziz, 23, flashed a wide smile in the shop where he sells scarves near in the city's famed citadel.

"I will vote 'yes' with all 10 fingers," he said.
A picture taken during a press tour provided by the Russian Armed Forces on September 15, 2017 shows Russian soldiers on in Syria's eastern city of Deir Ezzor as locals pass by

As the Islamic State group seems to crumble across Syria, a top Russian commander points to a pulverised tank once used by the jihadists as proof of his country's essential role in their demise.

In recent months, Syrian troops have rolled IS back in the country's northern province of Aleppo, Hama and Homs in the centre, and most recently, Deir Ezzor in the east.

But Moscow is keen to remind the world that its support for Syria's beleaguered forces made these advances possible.

In Uqayribat, a town recently recaptured from IS, the chief of staff of Russia's contingent in Syria leads a tour of a ruined factory where IS once produced one of its most terrifying weapons: "tank-bombs."

Jihadists would pack anti-tank mines and TNT into the vehicles, retrofit them with protective armour, then detonate them at Syrian army positions.

"The effect of such kamikaze tanks is considerable," says Lieutenant-General Alexander Lapin during a tightly-controlled tour by Russia's military.

He points proudly to the gutted shell of an old Soviet tank, likely captured from government forces when IS swept through central Syria.

Ironically, it was a Russian strike that reduced the would-be bomb -- with a "kill zone" of 300 metres (yards) -- to a harmless, charred carcass.

"Such design lets the tank lead both offensive and defensive actions. IS was the first organisation in history to use such a weapon," he says.

"Only Russian aviation can destroy them with their bombs."

- 'Kamikaze tanks' -

Uqayribat sits in the vast desert territory of Syria's central Hama province and has changed hands several times between jihadists and government troops in Syria's six-year war.

A picture taken during a press tour provided by the Russian Armed Forces on September 15, 2017 shows tanks inside a destroyed warehouse which was used by Islamic State group fighters to retrofit them into "kamikaze" suicide vehicles

In the first press tour to the town, Lapin says Syria's army and a volunteer brigade ousted IS from Uqayribat, but Russia also played a key role.

"New methods of warfare were used here, and Russian aviation inflicted extensive fire damage here," he adds.

Weapons including Russia's OFAB-500 fragmentation bombs have shattered 48 tanks in Uqayribat -- 30 percent of which were being fashioned into "kamikaze tanks."

Moscow has found three tank factories like the one in Uqayribat, and suspects one is still operating in Al-Mayadeen, an IS bastion near the border with Iraq.

"We will find it, and we will destroy it," Lapin says.

Russian reconnaissance drones were the first to scout the Uqayribat factory, and they also uncovered a network of IS tunnels criss-crossing the town.

"The underground town is a network of tunnels from 100 to 700 metres linked by passages which allowed them to move resources from one side of the town to another," Lapin says.

"All of these tunnels were discovered by Russian aviation's drones."

Moscow's military intervention in Syria began in September 2015 with an air war that helped troops loyal to President Bashar al-Assad recapture swathes of strategic territory.

"Wherever the Russians decide to apply their military capability, the regime can win," says Jeff White, military analyst at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

"Their broadest strategic goal is reassertion of Russia as a major player in the region and in the world."

- 'Extensive work' -

In recent weeks, Russian-backed regime forces have squeezed IS in eastern Deir Ezzor, in an offensive Moscow sees as the final stretch of the six-year war.

A picture taken during a press tour provided by the Russian Armed Forces on September 15, 2017 shows a Russian soldier riding in a helicopter en route to the eastern Syrian city of Deir Ezzor

"We've done extensive work. The Syrian army became professional and professionalism doesn't happen on its own," says military spokesman Igor Konashenkov.

"I'm certain that everything here (in Syria) is coming to an end."

Russia has played a "leading role" in helping Syria's army regain its offensive capability, according to Moscow-based military analyst Alexander Golts.

"Suddenly after six years of war, the military power of the Syrian army is looking better in the last six months," he says.

But the possibility that Syrian troops could recapture Deir Ezzor on their own remains "from the realm of fantasy," Golts adds.

In addition to air strikes and reconnaissance, Russia has also dispatched special forces, de-mining experts, and military police officers across Syria.

Pavel Felgenhauer, military observer for Novaya Gazeta newspaper, says more than 2,000 military advisers are also on the ground.

"Some two million tonnes of military supplies have been shipped to Syria," he says, including Russian weapons systems like the TOS-1 flamethrower rocket launcher and Msta artillery units.

Looking out over the vast territory that forms Syria's coveted desert region, Lapin says the Russian-backed victory in Uqayribat would be followed by many more.

"We cannot be stopped," he says.
One of the most influential magazines covering rock music, Rolling Stone has also been a home for experimental writers

Rolling Stone, the iconic 50-year-old magazine of music and counterculture, is putting itself up for sale amid an increasingly uncertain outlook, its founder said.

Jann Wenner -- who started Rolling Stone in 1967 as a hippie student in Berkeley, California and now runs it with his son Gus -- told The New York Times that the future looked tough for a family-run publisher.

"There's a level of ambition that we can't achieve alone," Gus Wenner told the newspaper in an interview published late Sunday.

"So we are being proactive and want to get ahead of the curve," he said.

One of the most influential magazines covering rock music, Rolling Stone has also been a home for experimental writers such as the gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson.

But the magazine's reputation -- and finances -- were badly damaged when it retracted a 2014 story about an alleged gang rape at the University of Virginia, with a review finding that Rolling Stone did not undertake basic journalistic procedures to verify the facts.

Rolling Stone last year sold a 49 percent stake to a Singaporean music and technology start-up, BandLab Technologies, which is headed by Kuok Meng Ru, the scion of one of Asia's richest families.

It was not immediately known if Kuok would want to take a controling stake in Rolling Stone.

The Wenner family earlier this year sold its other two titles -- celebrity magazine US Weekly and lifestyle monthly Men's Journal -- to American Media, Inc., a publisher of supermarket tabloids including The National Enquirer.

If American Media, Inc., were interested in Rolling Stone, it would mark a sharp change in owners' ideologies.

The tabloid empire is led by David Pecker, an ardent ally of President Donald Trump, while Rolling Stone tilts strongly to the left and has featured lengthy interviews with Democratic presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.

Jann Wenner, 71, who is also a key force behind the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, said that he hoped to keep an editorial role at Rolling Stone but that the decision would be up to its new owner.
Donald Trump arrives on Marine One in New York for the UN General Assembly, his first as US president

US President Donald Trump makes his debut at the United Nations on Monday, with an address on UN reform as a week of intense diplomacy kicks off, dominated by worries about North Korea, Iran and Myanmar.

Trump, who once disparaged the world body as a "club" for "people to get together, talk and have a good time," will lay out his views on how to improve the United Nations a day before he makes his first address to the General Assembly.

About 130 world leaders are attending this year's global gathering, but all eyes will be on Trump, whose "America First" agenda has alarmed both allies and foes.

The UN's number one financial backer, the United States has threatened deep cuts to UN funding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said would create an "unsolvable problem" for the world body.

Guterres, who is pushing for an overhaul of the UN bureaucracy, will also address the event at which leaders will sign a pledge of support for reform.

France and Russia have reacted coolly to the US initiative, amid concerns that the US administration is focused more on cost-cutting than improving the UN's performance.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley was a driving force behind a $600-million-dollar cut to the UN peacekeeping budget this year.

Haley on Friday pointed to the more than 120 countries that back the US-drafted political declaration on UN reform as a "miraculous number," showing there is support for a "massive reform package" led by Guterres.

- Differences over Iran, North Korea -

Activists rally outside the White House in July in favor of the Iran nuclear deal, an issue Trump is expected to discuss on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly

On Monday, Trump will hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, who will also be making his maiden address at the General Assembly on Tuesday, and with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Both Macron and Netanyahu are expected to raise the future of the Iran nuclear agreement, with the French leader making a strong case for keeping it alive and the Israeli prime minister pushing for its demise.

Trump will also have a working dinner with Latin American leaders that will touch on the crisis in Venezuela.

North Korea's nuclear and missile tests will be in the spotlight with foreign ministers set to discuss enforcing sanctions against Pyongyang during a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation on Thursday.

Also on Thursday, Trump will be holding talks with Japanese and South Korean leaders who have backed the US drive to ratchet up sanctions on North Korea.

The council last week imposed a new raft of measures such as a ban on export textiles and a cap on oil shipments to pile pressure on Pyongyang to come to the table and negotiate an end to its nuclear and missile programs.

Russia and China, however, are calling for diplomatic talks with North Korea while warning that a military option as suggested by the United States would have catastrophic consequences.

- Myanmar -

Rohingya Muslim refugees cross floodwater in Thyangkhali refugee camp near the Bangladesh town of Ukhia

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will host a meeting on the military campaign in Myanmar which the United Nations has described as "ethnic cleansing" after more than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims were forced to flee.

The closed-door meeting will be attended by a representative from Myanmar and by foreign ministers from "a range of countries with a strong interest in seeing an end to the violence there," a British diplomat said.

Ahead of the opening of the General Assembly, UN member-states will discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Irma that devastated parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

The hurricane disaster offers a reminder of the destructive force of nature as leaders set their sights on implementing the Paris agreement on climate change despite the US withdrawal from the deal.
The mass exodus of Rohingya refugees to neighbouring Bangladesh has billowed into an humanitarian emergency as aid groups struggle to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children

Pressure tightened on Myanmar Monday as a rights group urged world leaders to impose sanctions on the country's military, which is accused of driving out more than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims in an orchestrated "ethnic cleansing" campaign.

The call from Human Rights Watch came as the UN General Assembly prepared to convene in New York, with the ongoing crisis in Myanmar billed as one of most pressing topics.

The mass exodus of Rohingya refugees to neighbouring Bangladesh has billowed into an humanitarian emergency as aid groups struggle to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children.

There are acute shortages of nearly all forms of aid, with many Rohingya huddling under tarps as their only protection from monsoon rains.

Myanmar's government hinted Sunday that would not take back all who fled across the border, accusing those refugees of having links to militants whose raids on police posts in August set off the army backlash.

Any moves to block the refugees' return will likely inflame Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina, who will press the UN General Assembly for more global pressure on Myanmar to repatriate all of the Rohingya massing in shantytowns along her border.

Human Rights Watch also called for the "safe and voluntary return" of the displaced as it urged governments around the globe to punish Myanmar's army with sanctions for the "ongoing atrocities" against the Rohingya.

- Call for arms embargo -

"The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims," the group said in a statement.

It called on the UN General Assembly to make the crisis a priority, urging countries to issue travel bans and asset freezes on Myanmar officers implicated in the abuses, as well as expand arms emargoes.

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," said John Sifton, HRW's Asia advocacy director.

Myanmar's government has defended the military campaign as a legitimate crackdown on the Rohingya militants, who first emerged as a fighting force last October.

On Sunday Myanmar's Information Committee accused those who fled to Bangladesh -- more than a third of the Rohingya population -- of working in cahoots with the Rohingya militia, a rag-tag group of fighters armed with mostly rudimentary weapons.

"Those who fled the villages made their way to the other country for fear of being arrested as they got involved in the violent attacks," the statement said.

"Legal protection will be given to the villages whose residents did not flee," it added.

The violence has gutted large swaths of northern Rahkine in just over three weeks, with fires visible almost daily across the border from the Bangladesh camps.

Some 30,000 ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Hindus have also been displaced by the unrest.

While the world has watched the refugee crisis unfold with horror, there is little sympathy for the Rohingya inside mainly Buddhist Myanmar.

Many Buddhists revile the group and have long denied the existence of a Rohingya ethnicity, insisting they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.
Image messaging service Snapchat has blocked access to Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera for users in Saudi Arabia

Snapchat has blocked Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera from its app in Saudi Arabia at the request of Saudi authorities, the image sharing service said Monday, as tensions simmer between the Gulf states.

Saudi authorities have accused Al Jazeera of acting as a mouthpiece for extremist groups, a charge it denies.

Alongside the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia imposed a blockade on Qatar in June, in the worst diplomatic crisis to roil the Gulf in years.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," said a spokesman for parent company Snap Inc.

Al Jazeera condemned the blocking as an assault on freedom of expression.

"We find Snapchat's action to be alarming and worrying," the broadcaster's acting director general Mostefa Souag said in a statement.

"This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they don't agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms."

Snap Inc. said Saudi authorities had asked it to block Al Jazeera's account in the kingdom before the weekend, arguing that the broadcaster's Discover channel violated local laws.

The broadcaster's website has been blocked in Saudi Arabia for months and authorities shut down its office in the Kingdom when the crisis broke out in June.

So far, Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel can still be viewed in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt.

The Saudi-led alliance has issued a list of 13 demands to Qatar, accusing it of backing extremism and fostering ties with Riyadh's Shiite rival Tehran.

Doha denies the charges, claiming the blockade is an attack on its sovereignty.

The crisis has entered its fourth month and is showing no sign of ending, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia, with its bulging youth population, is among the world's top per capita users of social media.

The internet represents a limited space for freedom of expression in the conservative kingdom.
As more people in Bangladesh, one of the world's most densely populated nations, settle in elephant migration corridor areas, they are more likely to be attacked by confused, angry pachyderms

Wild elephants trampled two elderly Rohingya refugees to death Monday as they slept underneath a plastic sheet near a forest in Bangladesh, police said.

The incident occurred on the outskirts of Kutupalong refugee camp in Cox's Bazar district, where tens of thousands of Rohingya have set up makeshift shelters since fleeing violence across the border in Myanmar.

"We can confirm that two people were killed by wild elephants," local police chief Abul Khaer told AFP, adding both the deceased were Rohingya civilians.

More than 410,000 Rohingya have arrived in Bangladesh since a fresh outbreak of violence erupted on August 25 in Myanmar's westernmost Rakhine state.

Space at established refugee camps in Bangladesh has all but been exhausted, with new arrivals hacking away trees and other vegetation anywhere they can to erect shelters from the monsoon rain.

Many newly-arrived refugees are camping in the open or along roadsides, where they rush aid trucks for food and other desperately needed supplies.

Rohingya elder Kamal Hossain said the two refugees killed by elephants were new arrivals, who had taken refuge in a forested area near the sprawling Kutupalong camp.

"It happened early Monday morning when the Rohingya were sleeping under plastic tents. The wild elephants trampled the two elderly civilians to death," Hossain told AFP.

Many of the displaced have arrived with horrific tales of killings and rapes by Myanmar's security forces and Buddhist militias.

The latest violence erupted after Rohingya militant raids on 30 police posts in Rakhine triggered a military crackdown.

The UN calls the army fightback a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing" with villages set ablaze to drive Rohingya civilians out.
A US F-35B stealth fighter seen taxiing at the US Marine Iwakuni Air Station in Japan in January

The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

The flight was to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets flew alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on August 31.

Separately, China and Russia began a joint naval exercise east of the Korean peninsula.

The drill will be held in waters between the Russian port of Vladivostok and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, further north, the Chinese defence ministry said.

Chinese independent military analyst Wei Dongxu said it was mainly a submarine hunting exercise and not directly related to the situation on the Korean peninsula.

"However, it demonstrates a common determination to maintain regional stability and deter forces or countries from trying to move into the northeast Asia area," he said.

- 'Strongest possible measures' -

The UN Security Council last week imposed a fresh set of sanctions on North Korea over its missile and atomic weapons programmes, though Washington toned down its original proposals to secure support from China and Russia.

Chinese missile destroyer Shijiazhuang arrives in the Russian port city of Vladivostok as China and Russia begin a joint military exercise

Moscow backs Beijing's proposal for a freeze on North Korea's nuclear and missile tests in exchange for a suspension of US-South Korea military drills, which China blames for fanning regional tensions.

US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has rejected the proposal as "insulting" and said that if Pyongyang should pose a serious threat to the US or its allies, "North Korea will be destroyed".

North Korea's weapons drive is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly later Monday and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific last Friday, responding to the new UN sanctions with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse".

The US president has not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster has said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.
General Motors' Ontario assembly plant builds one of GM's most popular cars, the Chevrolet Equinox utility vehicle

Canadian autoworkers employed by General Motors at a key assembly plant in Ontario went on strike on Monday after GM and negotiators from Unifor Local 88 failed to reach a deal on a new contract covering some 3,000 workers.

The strike shuts down production at a plant that builds one of GM's most popular vehicles, the Chevrolet Equinox utility vehicle. GM is in the midst of ramping up production of Equinox for the 2018 model year and inventories of the new vehicle are in relatively short supply.

Dan Bothwick, president of Unifor Local 88, posted a message on the Local's website only moments calling for the strike, only moments before the old contract expired late Sunday.

The strike involves a long running battle between Unifor and GM over the company's decision to move work, previously done at the CAMI plant in Ingersoll, to a plant in Mexico.

Some 600 workers were idled last month when GM shifted production of a second vehicle, the GMC Terrain utility vehicle to a GM plant to Mexico where labor cost are cheaper than they are in Canada.

"We built the Terrain and the Equinox, and they moved the Terrain to Mexico despite being number one in quality and having massive sales, so part of our demands are to (ensure) the Equinox stays in Ingersoll, but General Motors is not interested in that whatsoever," says Unifor Local 88 chair Mike Van Boekel told the London (Ontario) Free Press a meeting earlier in the day in Ingersoll with the members of Unifor Local 88

"We've gone back and forth on a few different proposals over the course of these few weeks, but quite honestly, we are light years apart from each other in terms of reaching an agreement," Van Boekel said.

GM said in a statement e-mailed after the strike began that is was disappointed the negotiations had failed to produce a new agreement.

"While General Motors of Canada and our Unifor partners have made very positive progress on several issues over the past weeks, the Company is disappointed that we were not able to complete a new agreement. We encourage Unifor to resume negotiations and to continue working together to secure a competitive agreement."

The movement of work from Ingersoll to Mexico also has prompted Unifor to put pressure on the Canadian government of Justin Trudeau to demand greater protection for workers in any proposed changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Representatives of Mexico, Canada and the United States recently opened discussions on NAFTA at the urging of the Trump administration.

GM and other automakers, which have poured billions of dollar of investment into Mexico since the recession, have said the prefer the status quo to any major changes to what they view as a successful agreement that has helped protect jobs in all three countries.
The plight of the Rohingya, a Muslim minority who are reviled and denied citizenship in Myanmar, has roused emotion across the Islamic world, with protests held in Pakistan, Malaysia and Indonesia

At least 20,000 Islamist hardliners marched in Bangladesh on Monday in protest against the violence which has driven the Rohingya Muslim minority from neighbouring Myanmar across the border into squalid refugee camps.

White-robed protesters chanting "God is great" assembled outside Bangladesh's largest mosque before a planned "siege" of the Myanmar embassy in the capital Dhaka.

The turnout eclipsed a similar rally after weekly prayers last Friday, when 15,000 demonstrators urged the government to go to war against Buddhist-majority Myanmar over the "genocide" of Rohingya Muslims.

Police strengthened security before Monday's rally, deploying extra officers around Dhaka amid fears the demonstrators could turn violent.

The hardline Hefazat-e-Islami group had vowed hundreds of thousands of its followers would lay siege to the Myanmar embassy, but police halted the march before it reached the mission.

"Around 20,000 people joined the protest," deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Anwar Hossain told AFP.

There was "tension" but the crowd was slowly dispersing, he added.

Hefazat officials put the attendance figure much higher, with supporters from across Bangladesh pouring into the capital to rally.

Maolana Saifuddin, a 27-year-old teacher at an Islamic school outside Dhaka, said he was protesting at the "barbaric genocide" of the Rohingya by the government of Aung Sung Suu Kyi.

"We'll besiege the Myanmar embassy to send a message to the Myanmar government that we won't tolerate this genocide of our Muslim brothers in Arakan," Saifuddin told AFP, using the Bengali name for Myanmar's westernmost state of Rakhine.

Another protester, Abu Raihan, told AFP it was his religious duty to "protest the slaughter in Myanmar" of fellow Muslims.

The plight of the Rohingya, a Muslim minority who are reviled and denied citizenship in Myanmar, has roused emotion across the Islamic world, with protests held in Pakistan, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Rohingya in Rakhine have deep historic and linguistic ties with communities in the Chittagong region over the border, and images on social media purportedly showing abuses against the Muslim minority have aroused strong sympathy in Bangladesh.

Many homegrown Islamist groups are calling on the government to go to war with Myanmar and liberate Rakhine for the persecuted Rohingya minority.

The UN says more than 410,000 Rohingya refugees have poured into Bangladesh since a fresh outbreak of violence in Myanmar's westernmost state on August 25.

Many of those crossing the border bring harrowing tales of rape, murder and arson at the hands of Myanmar's security forces and Buddhist mobs.

Bangladesh already hosted at least 300,000 Rohingya refugees in squalid camps along its border with Myanmar before this latest influx.
Catholic priest Father Teresito Suganob (2nd L) was taken hostage along with about 13 parishioners from a local cathedral in Marawi city

A Catholic priest kidnapped by Islamic State supporters when they seized parts of a southern Philippine city nearly four months ago smiled and declared himself "strong" Monday after escaping.

Father Teresito Suganob called for prayers at a press conference at military headquarters in Manila after he was rescued late on Saturday when the military said it overran the militants' control centre inside a mosque in Marawi city.

"Thank you and I pray for you, God bless you all. Pray for me, for my recovery," said Suganob, 51, as he smiled and waved to reporters.

In a jocular mood despite his ordeal, the heavily bearded but apparently well-fed Suganob declared: "I am physically strong and handsome. That's it for now."

Hundreds of gunmen rampaged through Marawi, the main Muslim city in the mostly Catholic Philippines, on May 23 and then occupied key districts in what authorities said was an attempt to establish a Southeast Asian base for IS in the Philippines.

Smoke billows from houses after the bombing of Islamist militant positions in Marawi on September 17, 2017

More than 850 people have been killed and large parts of Marawi destroyed in the ensuing fighting, which has seen the gunmen defy a US-backed military campaign that has included heavy bombing.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte imposed martial law across the southern region of Mindanao in response to the crisis.

Suganob, a parish priest in Marawi commonly known as "Father Chito", was taken hostage along with about 13 parishioners from a local cathedral on the first day of the fighting.

The militants later released a video showing themselves vandalising the cathedral.

Another video released by his captors in late May showed Suganob standing in the rubble of buildings in Marawi asking President Duterte to withdraw troops and stop the military offensive.

- 'Prisoners of war' -

Suganob said at the time that the gunmen were holding 240 "prisoners of war", including teachers, carpenters and household workers. They were mostly Christians and local tribespeople.

"We want to live another day. We want to live another month," Suganob said in the video as gunfire was heard in the distance.

One escaped hostage later told authorities that Suganob had been forced to serve as a cook for the militants, according to the then-military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jo-ar Herrera in early July.

This was one of many reports that the militants were forcing their hostages to work as slaves.

Authorities said the hostages' roles included carrying the gunmen's food and ammunition, serving as stretcher-bearers for their wounded, collecting munitions and even acting as human shields.

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters that Suganob and another hostage, a 29-year-old male school teacher surnamed Acopio, were able to escape late on Saturday night as the militants pulled out of a mosque following hours of fighting.

"As the intensity of the armed confrontation continued to escalate in favour of our troops and as the terrorists were busy repelling the attack, our troops had the opportunity to snatch Father Chito and Mr Acopio," Lorenzana said.

Lorenzana and military chiefs described Saturday's overrunning of the mosque and another building that had been used by the militants as important victories, and predicted an end to the crisis soon.

"It is close, our soldiers on the ground are saying that we are near to finishing," Lorenzana said.

Nevertheless they conceded many obstacles remained, including improvised explosive devices and secret tunnels where the militants were hiding other hostages.

"The Bato mosque, underneath there are a lot of intricate tunnels and secret chambers so we are actually clearing those chambers and there are hostages in there," military chief Eduardo Ano said.

Military spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said that 673 militants, 47 civilians and 149 soldiers had been killed in the fighting.

He said there were 40 to 60 hostages and that some were still being forced to fight with the gunmen.

There were up to 80 fighters on the IS side but they could include some of the hostages, according to Padilla.
All media in Vietnam is government-controlled, but activists have turned to social media in recent years to voice grievances, with many -- including prominent blogger Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh -- arrested or jailed as a result

A political prisoner in Vietnam was sent to jail Monday for a second time after being found guilty of violating the terms of his house arrest, as the one-party state cracks down on critics.

Rights groups say at least 15 dissidents have been arrested since January in Vietnam, where a new administration in charge since last year has been accused of tightening already tough controls on freedom of expression.

Catholic activist Nguyen Van Oai was sentenced to five years in jail on Monday for failing to comply with terms of his house arrest and resisting public officers, his lawyer told AFP after the half-day trial in the central province of Nghe An.

"The court delivered a very unfair verdict based on its biased views," attorney Ha Huy Son said, adding that Oai would appeal the verdict.

Oai, 36, was convicted in 2013 along with 12 other activists of plotting to overthrow the government -- a common charge levied against government critics.

He was sentenced to four years in jail and ordered to serve another four years under house arrest.

He was re-arrested in January after he violated the terms of his house arrest and "strongly resisted" the orders of local officials, the state-run Ho Chi Minh City Law online newspaper said.

In a letter written ahead of the trial, Oai's wife maintained her husband's innocence and said he stood for "freedom and human rights".

"He is innocent. He is only guilty of refusing to remain silent in the face of misconduct (by authorities)," Ho Thi Chau wrote in the letter posted on Facebook last month.

Vietnam has long been criticised by advocacy groups for its dismal human rights record. It routinely jails bloggers, lawyers and activists accused of criticising the state.

Though all media in Vietnam is government-controlled, activists have turned to social media in recent years to voice grievances and promote freedom of expression.

Many have been arrested or handed heavy jail terms as a result.

In June prominent blogger Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh, known as "Mother Mushroom", was sentenced to 10 years in jail for anti-state propaganda for her online posts about the environment and politics, including an investigation into deaths in police custody.

The following month anti-China activist Tran Thi Nga was given nine years in jail for posting online articles deemed critical of the state.

In late July four dissidents were arrested on charges of trying to overthrow the government. The group was connected to a lawyer and activist who were previously arrested on the same charge, which carries the death penalty.

Amnesty International says at least 15 activists and government critics have been detained since January this year.
Jimbaran, a fishing village and resort area in southern Bali, where the scorched corpses of Japanese couple Nurio Matsuba, 76, and his 73-year-old wife Hiroko were discovered on September 4 by their Indonesian foster son

Indonesian police have arrested a man over the murder of an elderly Japanese couple whose bodies were found burned beyond recognition on the holiday island of Bali.

The scorched corpses of Nurio Matsuba, 76, and his 73-year-old wife Hiroko were discovered on September 4 by their Indonesian foster son in Jimbaran, a resort area in the southern part of the island.

Police detained a 25-year-old Balinese man, identified as I Putu Astawa, for the fatal stabbings early Monday.

Investigators, who are not looking for any other suspects, believe the murders were an opportunistic robbery gone wrong.

"His motive in committing the murder is his debt, Putu owed Rp 10 million ($750). He took a shortcut which was theft," Bali Police spokesman Hengky Widjaja said at a press conference.

Police allege he tied up and gagged Hiroko, who was killed first, before killing her husband, using a knife he found at the front door.

Later in the evening, Astawa returned to the house and set the bodies alight with gasoline and a lighter, police believe.

Widjaja said Astawa entered the Matsuba's home intending to steal money, but "because the victims fought back, he murdered them".

The couple had lived in Bali for seven years and the husband was a broker in a tuna export company, according to police.

Bali, a pocket of Hinduism in Muslim-majority Indonesia, is a popular tourist destination known for its tropical climate and palm-fringed beaches.

Petty crime is common on the island, although grisly murders are rare.
A total of 106 of the Chibok girls have been released, found or escaped

A Nigerian lawyer who helped secure the release of more than 100 schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram was on Monday awarded one of the United Nations' top prizes.

The UNHCR said Zannah Mustapha was given the annual Nansen award for his "crucial mediating" role as well as his work helping children affected by the long-running conflict.

Last year's recipients of the award were more than 2,000 volunteers who saved the lives of thousands of migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe.

Mustapha, who is in his late-50s, said the award was unexpected but he was "exceedingly happy" to have been chosen.

"I look forward to being a worthy ambassador... for such a noble award," he told AFP in an interview in the capital, Abuja.

Mustapha set up The Future Prowess Islamic Foundation School 10 years ago, which has since proved a lifeline for children in conflict-riven and impoverished northeast Nigeria.

The primary school has grown from having just 36 children and a single classroom to 540 pupils -- more than half of them girls -- and four times as many on the waiting list.

Last year, a second school was opened near the first in the Borno state capital, Maiduguri, providing free education to 88 pupils displaced from their homes by the violence.

Students also include the children of Boko Haram fighters and Nigerian soldiers.

"This is the place where every child matters, no matter what their religion, background or culture... Our aim is to make positive changes in their lives," he told the UNHCR.

Mustapha is a well-known figure in northeast Nigeria having previously represented the family of Mohammed Yusuf, the founder of Boko Haram who died in police custody in 2009.

The lawyer has previously been involved in peace talks with the group, whose insurgency has left at least 20,000 dead and displaced more than 2.6 million in the last eight years.

He refused to disclose exact details about his involvement in talks for the release of 219 schoolgirls who were seized by the group from the remote town of Chibok in April 2014.

A total of 106 of the Chibok girls have been released, found or escaped.

He told AFP when a deal was first reached it was "the highest point" in his life.

He said that being from the region, the kidnappings, which brought global attention on the Boko Haram conflict, were as if his own daughter had been taken.

Zannah was also circumspect about the fate of the remaining schoolgirls, confirming only that talks were ongoing and he was involved.

But he said he was "100 percent hopeful" that they would be released and that the insurgency will come to an end.

After so much violence, "everybody in my state is yearning to have peace", he said.

"We want to have transformation of the whole process to end and we are working towards that," he added.
PLEASE NOTE!

Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate!

All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited!

(One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!)
The Japanese government will allow the import of U.S. chipping potatoes from Idaho, marking the end of an 11-year ban on these shipments from the Pacific Northwest state.



The Japanese government will allow the import of U.S. chipping potatoes from Idaho, marking the end of an 11-year ban on these shipments from the Pacific Northwest state, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said in a statement.

According to USDA figures, the United States already has a 98-percent share of the Japanese potato market, with exports of fresh and chilled potatoes increasing from $1 million in 2010 to $19 million in 2016.

However, Japan stopped imports of Idaho chipping potatoes after detection of pale cyst nematode (PCN) in the southeastern part of the state in 2006.

Since then, USDAs Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has worked with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, as well as the nations potato industry, to demonstrate to the Japanese government the effectiveness of the PCN eradication program. As a result, Japan will reopen its market to chipping potatoes from all Idaho counties, except Bingham and Bonneville, which remain under quarantine for PCN. Potato exports from Idaho to Japan are expected to begin during the 2018 season.

In addition, Japan has clarified that all U.S. seed-producing states that are free from PCN and golden nematode are eligible to supply seed potatoes to produce chipping potatoes for export to Japan.
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad says a probe into the central bank's forex losses in the 1990s is 'vindictive'

Malaysia's former leader Mahathir Mohamad said Monday an inquiry into losses by the central bank in the 1990s was a "vindictive" attempt to target him and deflect attention from a scandal embroiling the current government.

Mahathir, who is seeking to oust scandal-plagued Prime Minister Najib Razak, was giving evidence at the inquiry into alleged multi-billion-dollar losses incurred by Bank Negara Malaysia through foreign exchange trading during his time in power.

The government-appointed Royal Commission of Inquiry comes at a time when Najib is battling allegations that billions of dollars were looted from crisis-hit sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. Najib and the fund deny any wrongdoing.

Mahathir, 92, described the probe, which can recommend action against anyone found to have been involved in causing the losses, as "vindictive in nature".

"The main aim of the government now is purely to put pressure on me... and all the critics of Prime Minister Najib Razak related to our criticisms of the 1MDB scandal and other woes," he said.

"There are so many other crises now which require an investigation instead of wasting public funds on this," he added.

He also denied ever having interfered in the central bank's operations during his time in office, from 1981 to 2003.

"I did not have legal powers to interfere in the policies, activities and administration of Bank Negara Malaysia," he added.

The inquiry chairman declined to comment when asked whether the probe was aiming to blame Mahathir for the losses.

Few details have emerged of the scale or nature of the alleged forex losses a quarter-century ago, but reports in local media have suggested that the central bank lost around US$10 billion.

Mahathir has come out of retirement to form his own party and joined forces with his old foe Anwar Ibrahim in an opposition alliance that aims to unseat Najib in elections due by 2018.

The inquiry is expected to submit a report to the country's king by October 13.
Turkish army tanks take position in Suruc near the Syrian border on September 29, 2014

Turkey launched a military drill featuring tanks close to the Iraqi border on Monday, the army said, a week before Iraq's Kurdish region will hold an independence referendum.

Despite opposition from Turkey, Iran and the United States, the Kurdistan Regional Government's leaders have said they will hold the non-binding independence vote on September 25.

Ankara has previously warned against the poll, saying it could risk "civil war" and will "have a cost" if it goes ahead.

Despite forging strong ties with the KRG in northern Iraq in recent years, Turkey fears the vote could stoke separatist aspirations among its own sizeable Kurdish minority.

Ankara's national security council will meet on September 22 to discuss the country's official position on the poll but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday said it was a "mistake".

He was speaking before leaving for the United Nations General Assembly, where he will meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi -- whose Baghdad government is also fiercely against the KRG's move.

Jan Kubis, the top UN envoy in Iraq, last week offered international backing for immediate negotiations between the country's federal government and the autonomous region in a bid to get Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani to drop the plans.

The Turkish military exercise began in the Silopi-Habur region in the country's south, close to northern Iraq, the armed forces said.

"Simultaneously with this exercise, counter-terrorism operations in the border region continue," a statement added.

Witnesses in the region said they saw around 100 military vehicles deployed, including tanks, in the early hours of Monday, an AFP correspondent said.
The world's largest beer festival is held annually in Munich, Germany

Malaysia has canned an annual craft beer festival in its capital Kuala Lumpur after an Islamist party warned it would turn the city into "the biggest centre of vice in Asia".

Drinking alcohol is common among the large ethnic minorities in Muslim-majority Malaysia but there have been a growing number of protests against activities and events seen as un-Islamic by politicians and hardliners.

The Better Beer Festival, billed as Malaysia's biggest craft beer festival, was due to take place on October 6 and 7 at a shopping mall on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur.

But last week the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), which often protests events seen as against Islam, warned the event could lead to criminal acts, free sex and rape.

"We can't bear it if Kuala Lumpur is known by the world as the biggest centre of vice in Asia," PAS central committee member Riduan Mohd Nor was cited as saying in the Malay Mail Online.

"It is something that is shameful for an Islamic country like Malaysia."

The organisers Monday announced "with disappointment" that the festival would not go ahead after city officials instructed them to cancel it due to licensing issues and "the political sensitivity surrounding the event".

Kuala Lumpur City Hall confirmed the cancellation and said legal action could be taken if it went ahead.

It was the latest sign of creeping conservatism in Malaysia, where critics say increasingly vocal Islamic hardliners and politicians are eroding a traditionally moderate brand of the religion.

About 60 percent of Malaysia's more than 30 million inhabitants are Muslim, and the country is also home to substantial ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities.
Iraq's supreme court said it had issued the order to suspend organising the Kurdish referendum "until it examines the complaints it has received over this plebiscite being unconstitutional"

Iraq's supreme court on Monday ordered the suspension of a September 25 referendum on the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan, to examine whether such a poll would be constitutional.

"The supreme court has issued the order to suspend organising the referendum set for September 25... until it examines the complaints it has received over this plebiscite being unconstitutional," it said in a statement.

The court took the decision after it "reviewed requests to stop the referendum", the statement said.

Court spokesman Ayas al-Samouk, told AFP: "We have received several complaints and this is why we decided to suspend the referendum."

A source in parliament said at least three lawmakers had filed complaints against the poll.

Neighbours Turkey and Iran, as well as the United States and United Nations, have pleaded for the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq to settle its differences with Baghdad through negotiations rather than secession.

Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani has said a "yes" vote would not trigger an immediate declaration of independence but rather kick-start "serious discussions" with Baghdad.
US President Donald Trump is due to decide by October 15 whether to re-certify sanctions relief given to Iran under the 2015 nuclear deal

Iran's nuclear chief on Monday accused the United States of seeking to undermine a landmark 2015 deal with major powers, calling on the UN watchdog to resist Washington's "unacceptable demands".

"The American administration's overtly hostile attitude and actual foot-dragging policies and measures aimed at undermining the nuclear deal... are contrary to the letter and spirit" of the accord, Ali Akbar Salehi said in Vienna.

He hit out at the US envoy to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, for making a "host of unjustifiable, peculiar demands" in talks with IAEA chief Yukiya Amano in Vienna last month.

These reportedly included that the IAEA inspect military sites in Iran, something which officials in Tehran have rejected.

US Energy Secretary Rick Perry told the Vienna meeting that Washington would "not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal".

But Haley's demands are "far beyond the purview of the JCPOA and its collectively negotiated and well-defined provisions," Salehi said, referring to the full name of the deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

"We remain confident that the (UN atomic) agency, and for that matter the director general, will resist such unacceptable demands," Salehi told the International Atomic Energy Agency's annual meeting of member states.

For his part, Amano on Monday repeated in his speech that Iran "is now subject to the world's most robust nuclear verification regime".

US President Donald Trump has called the agreement reducing Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief "the worst deal ever negotiated".

Trump has to certify in mid-October whether he believes Iran is abiding by the nuclear deal.

If Trump decides not to certify, Congress will then have 60 days to debate whether to re-impose sanctions.

On Sunday Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Tehran would not submit to US "bullying".

"The corrupt, lying, deceitful US officials insolently accuse the nation of Iran... of lying, whereas the nation of Iran has acted honestly and will continue on this path until the end in an honest manner," said Khamenei.

The nuclear deal is expected to be a major topic of discussion at the general assembly of the United Nations starting this week in New York.

The gathering in Vienna also saw as expected the Japanese Amano, 70, appointed to serve a third four-year term as IAEA director general.
Britain's Defence Secretary Michael Fallon holds a press conference in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on September 18, 2017

Britain's Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said he would try to persuade Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani at a meeting later Monday to call off a controversial September 25 independence referendum.

"I will be this afternoon in Arbil to tell Massud Barzani that we do not support the Kurdish referendum," he said at a press conference in Baghdad.

"We are committed to the integrity of Iraq. We are working with the UN on alternatives to this referendum," he said before heading to the Iraqi Kurdish capital in the northern city.

Iraqi Kurds have announced a September 25 vote on the autonomous oil-rich region's independence in a poll that Baghdad has argued would be unconstitutional.

Iraq's supreme court stepped in on Monday ordering the suspension of the referendum while it examines whether the plebiscite would be constitutional.

Neighbours Turkey and Iran, which have their own sizeable Kurdish populations, are also opposed to the plebiscite.

The United States and other Western nations are backing a UN-supported "alternative" plan for immediate negotiations on future relations in exchange for dropping the referendum.

Israel is alone in openly supporting Kurdish independence.

Barzani has said a "yes" vote would not trigger an immediate declaration of independence but rather kick-start "serious discussions" with Baghdad.
A file picture taken on July 8, 2017 shows a woman sitting and waiting to be relocated after fleeing fighting between Iraqi forces and Islamic State group jihadists in the Old City of Mosul

Iraq moved 500 wives of Islamic State group jihadists to a detention centre in preparation to deport them after they were captured along with 800 children, a councillor said Monday.

The women and children were detained in Iraq's second city Mosul, capital of Nineveh province and IS's main stronghold in the country until Iraqi forces retook it in July.

"They are in a holding centre in Tal Kayf under the control of Iraqi security forces, so their cases can be examined before they are eventually expelled from the country," the Nineveh province councillor told AFP.

The spouses and their children were moved Sunday from a camp run by international aid agencies 60 kilometres (40 miles) south of Mosul, said the official, who asked to remain anonymous.

A senior Iraqi security official said the 509 women and 813 children held 13 different nationalities from Europe, Asia and the Americas.

A government official said around 300 of them were Turkish.

"They are foreigners who entered the country illegally," a minister told AFP.

"Legal measures must be taken against them because, when they were detained, they were in an area controlled by terrorists."

The Norwegian Refugee Council said they group were mostly from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Russia and Tajikistan.

The Nineveh councillor said Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi had ordered their transfer to the detention centre and "could be part of preparations for their departure to their countries of origin".

Some of the families were among a group transferred to the Iraqi authorities a week after they surrendered to Kurdish forces deployed in the north of the country.

"Humanitarian organisations must have free access" to the centre in order "to provide assistance and monitor their living conditions," said Melany Markham, spokesperson in Iraq for the Norwegian Refugee Council.

Iraqi forces in late August ousted IS from the jihadists' one-time stronghold of Tal Afar, near Iraqi Kurdistan, after facing fierce resistance in the town of Al-Ayadieh.

Hundreds of women and children surrendered to Kurdish forces deployed north of Al-Ayadieh, officials said.
The family of former White House national security advisor Michael Flynn has launched a defense fund to raise money for mounting legal costs in the sprawling Russia election interference probe.

Flynn, who advised President Donald Trump's election campaign but was fired 22 days into the new administration, is under investigation for misreporting his contacts with Russian officials and his alleged lobbying activities for Turkey while involved in the campaign.

A new website for the Michael T. Flynn Legal Defense Fund called his lawyer bills 'tremendous.'

Former White House national security advisor Michael Flynn is raising money for his legal costs in the sprawling Russia election interference probe

Flynn and his son Mike Jr., shown at Trump Tower last November, are both promoting the legal defense fund on Twitter

'The costs of legal representation associated with responding to the multiple investigations that have arisen in the wake of the 2016 election place a great burden on Mike and his family,' the site said.

'Any support provided is greatly appreciated.'

Flynn's defense fund could potentially benefit from a change in the law to allow anonymous lobbyist and business donations to White House officials needing help with their legal defense.

Trump, his son Donald Trump Jr., son-in-law Jared Kushner, and several other current and former advisers have all retained lawyers to deal with the investigations, with lawyers fees for some topping $1,000 an hour.

Launching an official fund opens the door for lobbyists and businesses to make anonymous donations

The fund was established by Flynn's brother Joe and sister Barbara Redgate, who said in a statement the 'enormous expense' of legal fees had put a 'tremendous financial burden on our brother Mike and his family.'

They asked supporters of the retired U.S. general, 'veterans, and all people of goodwill' to contribute to the fund, which will collect donations from U.S. citizens through a newly created website, according to the statement.

Flynn, a central figure in a federal probe led by special counsel Robert Mueller, as well as a focal point of congressional investigations, broke a months-long silence to thank his siblings for their support on Twitter.

'Lori and I are very grateful to my brother Joe and sister Barbara for creating a fund to help pay my legal defense costs,' Flynn said in a tweet, referring to his wife Lori.

'We deeply appreciate the support of family and friends across this nation who have touched our lives.'

Flynn's son, Michael Jr., tweeted: 'Support @genflynn if you can..legal costs are what they are. I believe the truth will prevail. Hope others out there feel same. #TwoSides.'

Happier days: Flynn (right) is pictured on January 28 in the Oval Office with President Trump, former chief of staff Reince Priebus, Vice President Mike Pence and former press secretary Sean Spicer (top right)

Flynn's son said 'the truth will prevail'  if his father has enough money to defend himself

Flynn faces probes in Congress, from Robert Mueller, the Justice Department's independent prosecutor into Russian interference, and in the Defense Department, where Flynn formerly served as head of the Defense Intelligence Agency.

He has not been charged with anything.

But the investigations focus on several areas: his repeated discussions of US policy with Russian officials before and after Trump's shock election victory in November 2016; accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars to lobby for Turkey while advising Trump; being paid $33,750 by Russian TV RT to appear at a Moscow event; and his efforts to bring together Russia, the United States and Saudi Arabia in a deal for nuclear plants in the Middle East.

Potential charges include not reporting his business meetings, travels and payments as he was obligated to do as a former senior US military official.
An Egyptian policeman stands guard on Cairo's landmark Tahrir Square in this file picture taken on January 25, 2017

An Egyptian court on Monday acquitted Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa after four years in jail on accusations he participated in clashes with police in August 2013, a judicial official said.

Halawa, who has an Egyptian background, was arrested in Cairo after the clashes between police and supporters of former Islamist president Mohamed Morsi who were protesting his July 2013 ouster by the military.

It was not immediately clear whether he also has Egyptian citizenship.

Prosecutors had said the clashes led to the deaths of 44 people, the official said.

The court also acquitted three of Halawa's sisters, co-defendants in the same case who were released while on trial in November 2013 before they travelled back to Ireland.

The Irish government welcomed the ruling.

"I wholeheartedly welcome this conclusion to what has been an extraordinarily protracted case," Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said in a statement.

"I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity."

The court acquitted a total 52 defendants in the case which began in July 2014, including Halawa and his sisters, according to the official.

But of the 403 other defendants, 43 were sentenced to life in prison, 17 to 15 years in jail, 67 to 10 years, and 216 to five years, the official added.

Two juveniles were sentenced to 10 years in prison, while six others were sentenced to five years, the official said.

Amnesty International said Halawa and the others were subject to "a grossly unfair mass trial".

The London-based human rights group called for those who received sentences "to be re-tried in line with international due process standards or released".

It accused the court of having "relied entirely on unsound reports by security forces and investigations conducted by the National Security Agency as a basis for the convictions".

Amnesty said its conclusions were based on its analysis of the cases, and after speaking with at least five lawyers working on the case.

Following Morsi's overthrow, Egyptian authorities carried out a crackdown that killed hundreds of protesters who supported him.

Since then, courts have issued hundreds of death sentences against Morsi supporters, but many have appealed and won new trials.

Morsi and other top figures of his Muslim Brotherhood movement have also been put on trial.
"It would be utterly ridiculous if Mr Trump doesn't eventually say that," Nabil Shaath, a senior Abbas adviser, told journalists in Ramallah when asked about the two-state solution

A senior Palestinian official said Monday it would be "utterly ridiculous" if Donald Trump did not commit to the two-state solution, ahead of a meeting between the US president and Mahmud Abbas.

Trump is due to meet Abbas on Wednesday before the Palestinian president's address to the United Nations General Assembly the same day.

The US leader has been seeking to restart peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, in search of what he has labelled the "ultimate deal".

But Palestinian officials have grown increasingly frustrated at the failure of Trump's team to commit to the two-state solution, the focus of international diplomacy since at least the early 1990s.

Members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government openly oppose a two-state solution, while the premier himself has indicated in recent months that he plans no "uprooting" of settlements in the occupied West Bank.

"It would be utterly ridiculous if Mr Trump doesn't eventually say that," Nabil Shaath, a senior Abbas adviser, told journalists in Ramallah when asked about the two-state solution.

"What the hell are we negotiating? We are negotiating a diplomatic accord between Abu Mazen and Mr Netanyahu where they can meet each other? No," he added, referring to Abbas by his Arabic nickname.

Trump's aides -- led by his Middle East envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner and senior international negotiations aide Jason Greenblatt -- have been ferrying between leaders from the two sides in recent months.

But Shaath said he was not optimistic that the meeting between Abbas and Trump would lead to significant shifts.

"I don't know if Mr Trump has much to say. Already his delegation that was here, Mr Kushner and Mr Greenblatt, has requested a waiting period of three to four months before Mr Trump is ready with a formulation to get the peace process started."

"So it is a courtesy meeting of political importance."
The federal government has filed a complaint against California-based firm Perfectus Aluminum, alleging illegal imports of more than 2 million pallets of aluminum between 2011 and 2014.



The U.S. Justice Department has filed a complaint against California-based Perfectus Aluminum Inc, alleging the company illegally imported aluminum from China, thus evading $1.5 billion in tariffs, according to the asset-forfeiture complaint filed Thursday, Sept. 14.

According to the complaint, the companys warehouses in San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange counties held more than 2.1 million pallets of finished goods between 2011 and 2014. The complaint alleges that the pallets were never intended to be used as or sold as pallets, but rather to melt the aluminum and sell it as unfinished, to be shaped into products.

The federal government alleges that Aluminum Shapes was purchased, at least in part, for the purpose of melting Zhongtian Lius and Perfectuss stockpile of bogus aluminum pallets into aluminum billet, for sale in the United States, the complaint said. These pallets were not marketable or suitable for use as pallets, the complaint said. Rather, they were manufactured as a ruse to avoid paying customs duties upon importation into the United States.

According to the governments complaint, Chinese national Zhongtian Liu is the founder and chairman of China Zhongwang, which makes the aluminum bars, tubes and other parts that can be made into finished products. Liu also controls Perfectus Aluminum, the complaint says.

Aluminum Shapes, based in New Jersey, is owned by Jacky Cheung, who has also served as Perfectus Aluminums CEO since at least January 2017, the government stated.

According to California media outlet the Daily Bulletin, the aluminum pallets were stacked high in the four Southern California warehouses  so high, in fact, that one fire inspector wrote a citation at the Fontana facility.

The warehouses gained more attention from authorities when a stock trader accused China Zhongwang of fraudulent market practices, the Daily Bulletin said.

China Zhongwang then decided to export the aluminum to Vietnam, melt it down there and return it to the U.S. as Vietnamese aluminum, which would not be subject to tariffs, the Daily Bulletin reported.

The federal government imposed additional import duties on aluminum materials from China in 2010, after an investigation found the dumping of aluminum imports in the U.S. at less than fair value was materially injuring the U.S. domestic aluminum industry. Shortly thereafter is when Perfectus Aluminum began illegally importing aluminum into the U.S., the complaint alleges.
Police arrest demonstrators protesting the acquittal of former St. Louis police officer Jason Stockley in the 2011 on-duty shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith

Protests continued for the fourth straight day Monday on the streets of St Louis amid unabated outrage over the latest case of a US police officer fatally shooting a black man.

Dozens marched peacefully, some carrying "Black Lives Matter" signs, through the midwestern city's downtown streets and in front of city hall.

Hundreds have marched every day since Friday, in demonstrations that have turned violent and led to dozens of arrests.

The public outcry is over a judge's ruling Friday that there was not enough evidence to convict former police officer Jason Stockley for shooting Anthony Lamar Smith, a black man, following a 2011 car chase.

The protests have turned violent at night, with bricks thrown through store windows, and some protesters tossing rocks and chemical substances, according to authorities.

The violence led to the cancellations of several cultural events over the weekend -- including concerts by rock giant U2 and pop star Ed Sheeran.

Police have suffered minor injuries and responded with force, appearing in riot gear and arresting protesters. Police reported more than 80 arrests Sunday.

A demonstrator confronts police while protesting the acquittal of former St. Louis police officer Jason Stockley

"Once again, a group of criminals set out to break windows and destroy property. Tonight, those criminals are in jail," acting Police chief Lawrence O'Toole said at a news conference early Monday.

The American Civil Liberties Union has criticized the St Louis police response, saying officers had at times acted illegally.

The civil rights group said Saturday police were "attacking people indiscriminately with gratuitous use of pepper spray, pepper balls, rubber bullets and tear gas."

Stockley's acquittal was the latest example of the difficulty US prosecutors face in charging law enforcement officers following controversial deaths of citizens.

A number of cases brought against officers in various American cities have failed to send officers to jail -- including in the nearby states of Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin.

St Louis, in the state of Missouri, has a history of tensions between police and black communities, and became a cautionary example following the 2014 police killing of Michael Brown.

The officer involved was not charged by local or federal prosecutors, but the incident led the Justice Department to investigate St Louis police and find a pattern of civil rights violations.
A photo released by the Tunisian Presidency Press Service shows Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi (R) meeting with Libyan General Khalifa Haftar on September 18, 2017 at Carthage Palace in Tunis

Libyan military strongman Khalifa Haftar visited neighbouring Tunisia on Monday for talks with President Beji Caid Essebsi, who offered to act as a mediator between rival Libyan factions.

Libya, which plunged into chaos after the ouster and killing of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, has two rival governments and parliaments, as well as several militia groups battling to control its oil wealth.

"The stability of Libya is a necessary condition for the stability of Tunisia," Essebsi said, calling on Libyans to "overcome their differences" and "to work to build a state".

In a statement, he said Tunisia did not want to "interfere in Libya's internal affairs" but rather to "facilitate dialogue between the different components of the Libyan people".

Libya's Government of National Unity, based in the capital Tripoli, is backed by the United Nations but has struggled to assert its influence across the country.

The head of a rival government, backed by Haftar's self-proclaimed Libyan National Army which controls much of the country's east and south, on Sunday urged the international community to recognise his administration.

Essebsi's office said on Monday Haftar had expressed his "gratitude to the Tunisian president for his continuing efforts to reach a settlement".

Tunisia has been impacted by lawlessness in Libya which meant jihadist organisations including the Islamic State group were able to operate.

A series of jihadist attacks have hit Tunisian tourist sites and security forces since a 2011 revolution that toppled long-time dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and triggered the Arab Spring uprisings.

In 2011, several hundred thousand people fled Libya into Tunisia as the uprising against Kadhafi gained momentum.
Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah (L) welcomes United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in the West Bank city of Ramallah in August 2017

Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah is poised to visit Gaza for talks, a senior official said Monday, after Hamas agreed steps towards resolving a decade-long split with its West Bank-based rival Fatah.

Hamas announced Sunday it had agreed to demands by president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party to dissolve what is seen as a rival administration in Gaza, while saying it was ready for elections and negotiations towards forming a unity government.

Hamdallah plans to travel to Gaza City to meet Hamas officials and assert the government's control over ministries, Nabil Shaath, a senior adviser to Abbas, told journalists in the West Bank city of Ramallah, as a first step towards implementing a larger agreement.

"We await the first steps on the ground. We want to see Mr Hamdallah received by Hamas, the door to all the ministries open," he said. "That really could happen in the next 24 hours."

Abbas's internationally recognised Palestinian Authority (PA) is located in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, but it has had no control in Gaza for a decade -- after the Islamist movement Hamas seized the territory in a near civil war in 2007.

Hamdallah has not visited the territory since 2015, and a previous attempt at a unity government fell apart that year, with the two sides exchanging blame.

The head of the Arab League on Monday hailed the steps taken by Hamas and called for full reconciliation.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit "welcomes the important positive developments" regarding "ending the division" between the Palestinian factions, the Cairo-based organisation's spokesman Mahmoud Afifi said in a statement.

In recent months Abbas has sought to squeeze Hamas by reducing power supply to the strip, with the two million residents receiving only three or four hours of mains electricity per day as a result.

He has also reduced the salaries of some employees in Gaza, while the number of Gazans receiving PA permits to travel for medical care has declined.

Hamas on Monday called for the measures to be reversed after dissolving the so-called administrative committee, seen as a rival government and created in March.

In a statement they called on Abbas to "take urgent steps to cancel all his punitive decisions and measures against our people in the Strip."

Shaath said Abbas wanted to reverse the punitive measures, but he did not give a timetable.

"When the president supported these economic measures (against Gaza) he said they will stop immediately once the self-rule governance of Hamas ends and the consensus government takes place. He didn't put any other conditions whatsoever."

Abbas is due to address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, after meeting with US President Donald Trump.
South African Revenue Service commissioner Tom Moyane said that KPMG's decision to annul its report that was used to fire the finance minister was "abhorrent, unprofessional and unethical conduct"

South Africa's tax service said Monday it may sue auditor KPMG after it retracted a report it wrote that was used by the president to fire the former finance minister.

South African Revenue Service (SARS) commissioner Tom Moyane told a press conference that KPMG's decision to annul the report that was requested by his department was "abhorrent, unprofessional and unethical conduct".

KPMG South Africa last week cleared out its senior management, offered to repay the report's $1.7 million (1.4 million euros) cost as well as retracting the dossier which probed an intelligence unit within the tax service.

The final document appeared to accuse the former SARS chief who went on to be the country's finance minister, Pravin Gordhan, of having knowledge of the allegedly rogue team.

KPMG said in a statement on Friday that the evidence it had received did not support those findings and apologised for its work.

The now withdrawn report was used by President Jacob Zuma as grounds to sack Gordhan at the end of March, triggering a collapse in the rand currency and two separate credit rating downgrades.

"SARS sees KPMG's behaviour as nothing else than a dismal attempt to portray SARS and its leadership as incompetent, inefficient, and involved in a witch-hunt activity," said Moyane, who insisted that only SARS could nullify the report's findings.

He added that KPMG's "abhorrent, unprofessional and unethical conduct" had left him with no option but to consider "instituting legal proceedings against KPMG for reputational damage".

SARS may also seek to have KPMG banned from all work for the South African state as a result of the spat, said Moyane, who also threatened to report the auditor to local and international regulators.
Turkey summoned the German ambassador in protest at a Cologne rally Ankara says was organised by supporters of Kurdish militants -- the German city also hosted a march last November in support of Kurds

Turkey on Monday summoned the German ambassador for the second time in just three days, Turkish diplomatic sources said, as an intensifying bilateral crisis showed no sign of ending.

Germany ambassador Martin Erdmann had already been called in by the Turkish foreign ministry on Saturday over a rally that Ankara said was organised by supporters of Kurdish militants in Cologne.

Turkish state-run news agency Anadolu said the summons related to a previous incident where Erdmann had been unable to attend but did not specify further.

A Turkish foreign ministry source, who asked not to be named, said it was a "coincidence" that the latest summons came so soon after the previous order from the ministry at the weekend.

German foreign ministry spokesman Martin Schaefer confirmed the summons, saying it was the 17th time in his tenure as ambassador that Erdmann had received such an order.

Erdmann has been Berlin's envoy to Ankara since August 2015.

Schaefer told reporters in Berlin the number of summonses Erdmann had received was "very unusual" between "partners within NATO".

Relations between the allies deteriorated sharply after last year's failed coup, with Berlin condemning the mass arrests in Turkey which have included German citizens.

Among those imprisoned is Deniz Yucel, a German-Turkish journalist with the Berlin-based newspaper Die Welt, accused of terror charges earlier this year.

But Turkey has repeatedly accused Germany of supporting "terrorists", referring to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and individuals accused of involvement in the failed coup.

The Turkish foreign ministry said on Saturday it expressed "in a strong way" its opposition to the rally which it claimed was "an activity by the PKK terror group's extensions in Germany and their spreading terror propaganda there today in Cologne".

Erdogan has accused Germany of "Nazi" and "fascist" practices while Germany has responded by updating its travel advice to warn citizens that they could face arrest if they travel to Turkey.

The PKK, which has waged an insurgency inside Turkey since 1984, is proscribed by Turkey as well as the European Union and the United States.
President Donald Trump warned that as chief executive of the United States -- a founding member of the UN and its biggest financial contributor -- he wants a better return on his investment

US President Donald Trump on Monday warned that "bureaucracy" is holding the United Nations back, delivering a barbed first message to the world body he once derided as a talk shop.

Kicking off a frantic week of diplomacy with a panel discussion on UN reform, Trump noted a personal history with the New York-based institution.

He had seen "great potential right across the street" from UN headquarters, Trump said, referencing his decision to build the 72-floor residential skyscraper Trump World Tower nearby.

"To be honest with you, and it was only for the reason that the United Nations was here that that turned out to be such a successful project," the businessman-turned-president told delegates.

But Trump warned that as chief executive of the United States -- a founding member of the UN and its biggest financial contributor -- he wants a better return on his investment.

"The United Nations was founded on truly noble goals," he said, adding that while progress has been made, "in recent years the United Nations has not reached its full potential, because of bureaucracy and mismanagement."

He said that while the United Nations' regular budget has increased by 140 percent, and its staff has more than doubled since 2000, "we are not seeing the results in line with this investment."

He called on the institution to "focus on results," a call that was echoed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, who said a reformed UN needs to focus "more on people and less on process."

- Make the United Nations Great -

Trump once disparaged the world body as a "club" for "people to get together, talk and have a good time" and his administration has threatened deep cuts to UN funding.

That includes a $600 million cut to the peacekeeping budget, which critics warn will significantly affect peace operations but which is music to Trump supporters' ears.

"I think the main message is 'Make the United Nations Great.' Not again. 'Make the United Nations Great'' Trump said after his remarks.

President Donald Trump's remarks were a preamble for his maiden address to the UN general assembly on Tuesday

"The United Nations has tremendous potential and we'll see how it works out."

Although US president Franklin Roosevelt was instrumental to midwifing the United Nations into existence, the American public has proven more skeptical.

Many of Trump's closest advisors and donors see the 193-member body as a check on US power and drain on American resources.

The United States pays 22 percent of the UN's $5.4 billion core budget and 28.5 percent of the $7.3 billion peacekeeping budget.

According to Gallup, 60 percent of Americans think the United Nations is doing a poor job.

The Trump administration's effort to cut costs has been met coolly by other powers, most notably Russia and China, who were not among the 128 member states who signed on to a US call for reform.

UN diplomats argue that divisions at the UN Security Council -- where the United States holds veto power along with Russia, France, China and Britain -- are as much to blame for UN failures as bureaucratic hurdles.

- The main event -

Trump's remarks Monday were a preamble for his maiden address to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday.

His appearance -- which aides say will last around a half-hour -- is likely to emphasize the importance of sovereignty and the primacy of the nation state, reinforcing the anti-internationalist themes of his campaign.

Trump held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who again hit out at the "terrible" Iran nuclear deal and was due to meet later with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Both Macron and Netanyahu are concerned by the future of the Iran nuclear agreement, with the French leader making a strong case for keeping it alive and the Israeli prime minister pushing for its demise.

Trump will also have a working dinner with Latin American leaders that will touch on the crisis in Venezuela.
Rosneft continues to grow its influence in the region as the company also eyes expanding Kurdistan's oil infrastructure

Russian energy giant Rosneft announced Monday it intends to help build a gas pipeline in Iraqi Kurdistan, a move bolstering Moscow's links to the region as it eyes independence.

The state-run firm said it had "negotiated" with local authorities the "opportunity to participate in the project on funding of the construction project of Kurdistan Region's natural gas pipeline infrastructure".

"The Kurdistan Region gas pipeline will not only supply natural gas to the power plants and domestic factories throughout the region, but also enable exporting of substantial fuel volume to Turkey and the European market in the coming years," a statement said.

The pipeline is set to carry 30 billion cubic metres of gas a year and is scheduled to start working in 2019, the company said.

The deal to build the pipeline should be finalised later this year, it said.

Kurdistan is currently locked in a dispute with Iraq's central government in Baghdad over its plans to hold an independence referendum on September 25.

The latest deal will further increase Rosneft's influence in the region as the company also eyes expanding Kurdistan's oil infrastructure.

Russia has long been involved in the oil and gas sectors in energy-rich Kurdistan, with state gas behemoth Gazprom also involved in the region.

Kurdistan is looking to boost its own energy infrastructure to ease any reliance on the central government in Baghdad.
The Department of Defense will allow existing servicemen and women who are transgender to continue serving indefinitely, but First, people who are being treated for 'gender dysphoria'  the condition where a person identifies as the opposite of their biological gender  can no longer enlist or receive officer commissions.

And transgender troops can continue receiving transition-related medical treatment for now, the Pentagon said Monday, amid mounting challenges to President Donald Trump's effective ban on funding such procedures as well as accepting new openly transgender personnel.

Trump blindsided the Pentagon in July when he tweeted that transgender troops, who had been allowed to serve openly under rules implemented by Barack Obama's administration, would be barred from the military.

The White House formalized the decree in an August 25 directive, but Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has ordered the current Obama-era policy remain in effect until officials conduct a review of how a ban might be implemented.

The Trump administration revealed some specifics on Monday about how it will implement a new policy banning transgender Americans from serving in uniform

Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis says the administration will leave most of the existing policies in place until February or March while it studies how best to put Trump's orders into place

Guidance released by the Pentagon permits transgender troops to re-enlist in the military if they are already serving, but no new applicants will be accepted

'First and foremost, we will continue to treat every service member with dignity and respect,' Mattis said in the memo to service chiefs released Monday.

He said troops with a gender dysphoria diagnosis can receive Pentagon-funded sex-change procedures until March 22, when no more reassignment operations will be allowed.

Trump has said the ban would save on the 'tremendous' medical costs and disruptions that transgender personnel could create.

But a Rand Corporation study said only a tiny portion of service members would ever seek gender transition affecting their deployability or health expenditure, adding between $2.4 million and $8.4 million in costs -- a fraction of the Pentagon's more than $600 billion budget.

Trump's ban has provoked outrage from rights groups and from both sides of the political aisle.

A bipartisan group of US senators on Friday introduced legislation that would protect transgender troops from being booted for their gender identity.

Protests broke out after Trump announced a U-turn from the Obama-era policy over the summer

President Donald Trump stunned the Defense Department in August when he announced the new policy in a tweet

The measure was co-sponsored by Senator John McCain, a senior Republican figure who leads the Senate Armed Services Committee, so is likely to gain wide traction and raises the possibility that Trump's ban will be overturned before it ever can go into effect.

Mattis additionally underscored that no service member can be booted from the military based on their gender identity -- for now. Mattis's review is due to be submitted by February 21.

Trump's transgender ban has also sparked several legal challenges.

OutServe-SLDN  which works to end military discrimination  and civil rights litigators Lambda Legal have filed a lawsuit and retired admiral Mike Mullen, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has thrown his support behind the challenge.
The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force as the crisis over North Korea's weapons programme deepened

North Korea bitterly denounced new sanctions on its economy as "vicious, unethical and inhumane" and warned the measures would only accelerate progress on its nuclear weapons programme, state media reported Monday.

The angry statement from Pyongyang's foreign ministry came as the crisis surrounding the reclusive state was set to dominate the annual UN gathering of world leaders.

The UN Security Council last week imposed a new raft of sanctions on North Korea, slapping an export ban on textiles, freezing work permits to North Korean guest workers and placing a cap on oil supplies.

The international community is scrambling to contain an increasingly belligerent Pyongyang, which has conducted its sixth and largest nuclear test and fired long-range missiles over Japan that it says could reach the US mainland.

Pyongyang says it needs nuclear weapons to protect itself from US forces. It says it is determined to build a weapons system capable of delivering a nuclear warhead capable of hitting the American mainland.

The state news agency KCNA, quoting the foreign ministry statement, said the economic restrictions -- which US officials estimate could deny the impoverished state more than $2 billion in revenue -- were an "act of hostility to physically exterminate the people of" North Korea.

"The increased moves of the US and its vassal forces to impose sanctions and pressure on the DPRK will only increase our pace towards the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force," it said, referring to the country by the initials of its official name.

The effectiveness of the sanctions depends largely on whether China, North Korea's ally and main economic partner, will fully implement them.

US President Donald Trump, who was was due to address the UN in New York Tuesday, spoke by phone to his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping Monday, with the White House saying the two men were committed to "maximising pressure on North Korea."

The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a blunt show of force.

Trump says he has not ruled out a military option in the crisis. War could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital of Seoul -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- exposed.
Israeli soliders patrol near an Iron Dome defence system, designed to intercept and destroy incoming short-range rockets and artillery shells, in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, in this picture taken on January 20, 2015

Israel on Monday inaugurated with its US ally a joint missile defence base on Israeli soil, the first ever, a senior Israeli air force officer said.

The new facility, at an undisclosed location in southern Israel, was announced as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was due to meet US President Donald Trump in New York on the fringes of the UN General Assembly.

"We inaugurated, with our partners from the United States Army, an American base, for the first time in Israel," Brigadier General Tzvika Heimowitz, head of Israeli missile defences, told journalists.

"An American flag is flying permanently over a US army base situated inside one of our bases."

Heimowitz said the move was not a direct response to any specific incident or immediate threat, but was a combination of "lessons learned" in the 2014 war in Gaza and intelligence analysis of future dangers.

"We have many enemies around us, near and far," he said.

The outgoing Israel air force chief in June warned neighbours of the "unimaginable" military power at the country's disposal.

On September 7 Syria's army accused Israeli warplanes of hitting one of its positions, killing two people in an attack that a monitor said targeted a site where the regime allegedly produces chemical weapons.

Israel, without confirming it was behind the attack, indirectly warned Syria and Iran that it would not tolerate any "Shiite corridor from Tehran to Damascus".

Israel accuses Iran of building sites to produce "precision-guided missiles" in both Syria and Lebanon and Netanyahu is expected to reiterate the point in his talks with Trump.

The country has bought 50 F-35 stealth fighters from the United States.

Israel has a sophisticated anti-missile defence system, including the Iron Dome short-range interceptor which has successfully brought down rockets fired from Syria, Lebanon, Egypt's lawless Sinai region and the Gaza Strip.

It also has the medium-range David's Sling and the Arrow missile defence system, designed to counter more distant threats.

Heimowitz did not comment on the specific role of the new joint base, but said the "few dozen" US personnel there would be under Israeli command.

"This is not part of an exercise or manoeuvre," he said. "It is a presence as part of the joint effort of Israel and the US to improve defence."
Opposition supporters kept an all-night vigil as they demanded constitutional reform during anti-government protests on September 7 -- but now the ruling party says it will respond with counter marches of its own

Togo's ruling presidential party on Monday urged supporters to take to the streets to coincide with planned opposition demonstrations against the slow pace of political reform.

Georges Kwawu Aidam, the first vice-president of the Union for the Republic (UNIR) told AFP there would be marches on Wednesday and Thursday in support of a controversial constitutional reform bill which the opposition see as not going far enough.

A parliamentary panel last Friday approved the bill to revamp the constitution and introduce a presidential term limit after days of protests against the regime of Faure Gnassingbe, the scion of one of Africa's oldest political dynasties.

But the panel rejected wholesale 48 amendments proposed by opposition parties.

Aidam said the ruling party march would "say 'no' to violence" and hold counter rallies as the opposition steps up its demands, notably to apply a limit on the number of presidential terms retroactively, preventing Gnassingbe from running again in 2020.

He has been president since 2005 following the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had ruled since 1967.

Opposition parties have long called for the introduction of two-term limits and a change to the two-round voting system.

The West African state's 1992 constitution has been modified a number of times, including by Eyadema, who enjoyed the military's support and who in 2002 scrapped mandate limits.

Jean-Pierre Fabre, the historic leader of the opposition, reiterated his rally appeal on Monday, sending an audio message to the Togolese people via the Whatsapp messaging service.

"My dear compatriots... we invite you once again to mobilise to take part in great numbers in the demonstrations that the democratic forces contemplate," said Fabre, president of the National Alliance for Change (NAC).

Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe has ruled the country since 2005, having replaced his father who ruled for 38 years -- but the opposition want constitutional reforms to limit presidential terms

"We will not have rest until Mr. Faure Gnassingbe has left power as you ask him," he added.

On September 6 and 7, hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets of Lome, Togo's capital, and in other cities to demand constitutional change.

The demonstrators brandished signs and chanted slogans to demand Gnassingbe go.

At the weekend, Togo's bishops slammed "the violence exercised by the forces of law and order" and urged political parties not to organise simultaneous rallies.

The ruling party had initially decided earlier this month to organise marches on the same day as the opposition, forcing the latter to change its dates.

Aidam insists the ruling party will "defend its values" and that the opposition has no monopoly on the street.
A security guard poses in an empty alleyway in Ogbaru Market in May 2017, during a shutdown in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Nigerian Civil War

A dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed after clashes between pro-Biafra supporters and Nigerian security services was relaxed on Monday, as the government blasted social media "quacks and internet trollers" for stoking tensions.

The Abia state government in the country's southeast last week ordered people off the streets from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am because of the unrest.

But it now said it had scaled back the start time to 10:00 pm "until further notice" because "relative peace and calm" had returned.

Members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement have clashed with the police and the military in Abia and neighbouring Rivers state over the last week.

IPOB wants an independent state for the Igbo people who dominate the region, reviving secessionist sentiment that led to a brutal civil war 50 years ago.

Fears the violence could take on a wider ethnic dimension were sparked last week after violence against Igbos living in the central city of Jos, where two people were killed.

On Saturday, police in the southern state of Delta said suspected IPOB members shot dead four people in a market dominated by Hausa-Fulani traders from the north.

IPOB claims the army, which has flooded the Abia state capital Umuahia and its commercial hub Aba with troops, is seeking to curtail its activities.

But the military, which has branded the group "a militant terrorist organisation", maintains it is conducting a routine operation against violent crime in the area.

Nigeria's highest-ranking army officer, Lieutenant-General Tukur Buratai, told reporters in Abuja on Monday the soldiers' presence was "in line with their constitutional role".

On social media, pro-Biafra supporters regularly call for the break-up of Nigeria, which is almost evenly split between a mainly Muslim north and largely Christian south.

It is also home to hundreds of ethnic groups and languages.

But Information Minister Lai Mohammed accused IPOB of using "fake videos ... to mislead the international community and win their support".

He called the attempt to manipulate public opinion "the activities of quacks and internet trollers", rejecting IPOB claims of genocide against Igbos as "lies and propaganda".

"What we have in the southeast is a clampdown on a band of lawless people who have no regard for the laws of the land," he added.
US President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Accords on June 1, 2017

A hopeful France set out at the United Nations Monday to persuade the United States to stay in the Paris climate agreement, as Donald Trump's administration insisted it was not changing gears.

Gary Cohn, the chief White House economic adviser, reiterated Trump's opposition to the landmark accord as he met over breakfast with officials from other major economies at the start of the UN General Assembly, an annual week of diplomacy.

But French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, whose government has made preserving the agreement reached in the French capital in 2015 a top priority, held out hope.

"We take note of President Trump's statements on not respecting it, but for the moment no action has been taken and we can still hope to persuade him," he told reporters.

"We have to make sure that international pressure is strong and that we do not stop the agreement from being implemented," he said, noting that French President Emmanuel Macron has called a climate summit for December 12 in Paris.

The Trump administration has sent out mixed messages on the Paris deal in recent days.

European officials suggested after a climate meeting in Montreal on Saturday that Washington might be ready to re-engage with the pact.

That prompted a firm pushback from the White House which insisted its stance was unchanged -- only for Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to assert a day later that the US was studying ways to cooperate with other countries on what, he said, "is still a challenging issue."

- Extreme weather -

Trump, whose Republican Party has strong ties to the fossil fuel industry, has said that the Paris agreement is unfair to the world's largest economy.

In pulling out, the United States would be the only country outside the Paris accord other than war-torn Syria and Nicaragua, which had pressed for a stricter deal.

The agreement, championed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, calls for countries to set their own plans with a goal of keeping global warming over this century under two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) from pre-industrial levels.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned Monday that there was no time to spare, estimating that more than 20 million people have already been displaced by floods, storms or other extreme weather linked to climate change since 2008.

"In Paris, we rose to a global challenge. Now we have an even bigger challenge: raising ambition and staying on course," Guterres said.

But in the wake of Trump's move, the UN chief focused on action by non-state players such as businesses and regional governments.

Governor Jerry Brown of California, the most populous US state, has called a meeting of non-governmental players on climate change for next year.

"America is not run by Donald Trump," Brown told a forum called by Guterres.

"We are a country of diverse power centers, and mobilizing those power centers that are not controlled by the president is still a very worthwhile goal and very powerful," he said.

- Action at local level -

Former vice president turned environmental champion Al Gore warned of the rapid worsening of climate change, pointing out that Hurricane Harvey which battered Texas last month was the type of rain that was only likely to happen every 25,000 years.

"We are departing the familiar bounds of history as we have known it since our civilization began," Gore told a conference of the World Economic Forum on the UN sidelines.

Both Gore and former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, who is serving as a UN special envoy on cities and climate change, said that the United States could still meet its Obama-era commitments through private sector action.

"We are winning this, but we must win it more quickly," Gore said.

Cohn, a former Goldman Sachs investment banker, at his meeting with officials of major economies discussed the role of US energy technology in both economic growth and lowering carbon emissions, a White House official said.

The official said that Cohn made clear during the breakfast that Trump is "withdrawing from the Paris agreement unless we can re-engage on terms more favorable to the United States."

arb-leb-cat-sct/jm
US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said negotiators are moving at 'warp speed' to revamp the NAFTA but it is not clear whether they can reach the finish line

Negotiators are moving swiftly to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement but the outcome remains uncertain, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said Monday.

"We're moving at warp speed but we don't know whether we're going to get a conclusion," he said.

The remarks following a speech on trade policy came days ahead of the third round of talks aimed at reworking NAFTA, which are due to kick off Saturday in Canada.

US President Donald Trump last month again called the future of NAFTA into doubt, saying he would "probably" terminate the agreement "at some point."

Despite a campaign promise to abandon the trade pact, Trump opted instead to call for talks to renegotiate it, but has signalled several times he is willing to terminate it if he does not get a good deal.

Lighthizer said Monday officials are eager to conclude the talks due to time pressures from the political calendar, notably in Mexico, which will hold general elections in July, and because uncertainty was inconveniencing businesses.

"There are a lot of people that the whole process is having real-life effects on, real farmers and ranchers and businesspeople who are trying to do business," said Lighthizer.

"So there are reasons to move quickly on a renegotiation."

Trump officials have put heavy emphasis on reducing bilateral trade deficits in all of its discussions, including with NAFTA partners Canada and Mexico, something analysts say may be difficult to remedy in trade talks.

-'Unprecedented' threat from China-

Turning to China, Lighthizer said the World Trade Organization was not equipped to respond to the "unprecedented" threat from Beijing's policies.

"The sheer scale of their coordinated efforts to develop their economy, to subsidize, to create national champions, to force technology transfer and to distort markets in China and throughout the world is a threat to the world trading system that is unprecedented," he said.

Lighthizer said he did not want to "prejudge" the outcome a pending US investigation into Chinese intellectual property policies, but there is "an awful lot to indicate there's a problem."

The Trump administration this month blocked Chinese efforts to acquire a US semiconductor firm in Oregon due to national security issues, partly because of concerns about forced transfer of sensitive technology.

Washington has also cited national security in launching probes of Chinese steel and aluminum production.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was the first foreign leader to hold one-to-one talks with US President Donald Trump as senior international figures gather at the UN General Assembly in New York

US President Donald Trump again expressed his hopes for a peaceful settlement to the Middle East crisis Monday as he met Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu was the first leader to have a one-on-one with Trump at the US president's first United Nations General Assembly, an annual week of high-level diplomacy.

The conversation in New York will be dominated by talks of North Korean provocations, the Iran nuclear deal, the crisis in Syria and the debate on climate change.

But Trump was at pains to remind reporters that he has not forgotten his pledge to help negotiate an end to the long dispute between Israel and the Palestinians.

"We're going to be discussing many things; among them, peace between the Palestinians and Israel -- it will be a fantastic achievement," he said, sitting with Netanyahu.

"We are giving it an absolute go. I think there's a good chance that it could happen. Most people would say there's no chance whatsoever," he said.

"I actually think with the capability of Bibi and, frankly, the other side, I really think we have a chance," he insisted.

"I think Israel would like to see it, and I think the Palestinians would like to see it. And I can tell you that the Trump administration would like to see it.

"So we're working very hard on it. We'll see what happens. Historically, people say it can't happen. I say it can happen."

Netanyahu thanked Trump for his and the United States' support for Israel, and said he wanted to focus on the Iranian threat and Tehran's growing clout in Syria.

But he also agreed to discuss the "opportunity for peace" between Israel and Palestinians and, in his preferred emphasis, "between Israel and the Arab World."

Trump is due to meet the Palestinian leader, Mahmud Abbas on Wednesday, again at the UN assembly.

- Shuttle diplomacy -

The Palestinians are keen to clarify US support for a two-state solution to the stand-off with Israel, the focus of international diplomacy since at least the 1990s.

Some members of Netanyahu's government oppose such a deal, and the premier is a defender of Jewish settlement building on occupied land claimed by Palestinians.

Trump's Middle East envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner and senior aide Jason Greenblatt have been ferrying between leaders from the two sides for months.

But Palestinian officials have become increasingly frustrated by the White House's ambivalent stance.

Trump and Netanyahu were also meeting on the day that, according to a senior Israeli officer, Israel and its US ally opened their first joint missile defense base.

The site, in southern Israel, will fly a US flag and strengthen the region's defenses, said Brigadier General Tzvika Heimowitz, head of Israeli missile defenses.
Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah (L) welcomes United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in the West Bank city of Ramallah in August 2017

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas and Hamas leader Ismail Haniya spoke Monday for the first time in nearly a year, adding impetus to a surprise reconciliation between their factions locked in bitter dispute for 10 years.

Abbas spoke with Haniya by phone from New York and "expressed his satisfaction with the prevailing atmosphere of reconciliation", according to a statement on the official Palestinian news agency Wafa.

A Hamas statement quoted Haniya as saying that Hamas was "determined to move ahead with steps to end the division, will all willingness and determination, with the goal of uniting our Palestinian people".

A Hamas spokesman told AFP that the two had not spoken since meeting in Qatar in October 2016.

Hamas said Sunday it had agreed to demands by Abbas's Fatah party to dissolve what is seen as a rival administration in Gaza, while saying it was ready for elections and negotiations towards forming a unity government.

As a first step towards implementing a larger agreement, Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah plans to visit Gaza City to meet Hamas officials and assert the government's control over ministries, said Nabil Shaath, a senior adviser to Abbas.

"We await the first steps on the ground. We want to see Mr Hamdallah received by Hamas, the door to all the ministries open," he told journalists in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

"That really could happen in the next 24 hours."

Abbas's Palestinian Authority (PA) located in the Israeli-occupied West Bank has international recognition, but it lost control of the Gaza Strip when the Islamist movement Hamas seized the territory in a near civil war in 2007.

Hamdallah last visited the coastal enclave in 2015, and a previous attempt at a unity government fell apart that year, with the two sides trading blame.

The head of the Arab League on Monday hailed the steps taken by Hamas and called for full reconciliation.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit "welcomes the important positive developments" regarding "ending the division" between the Palestinian factions, the Cairo-based organisation's spokesman Mahmoud Afifi said in a statement.

- Squeezing Hamas -

In recent months Abbas has sought to squeeze Hamas by reducing power supply to the strip, with the two million residents receiving only three or four hours of mains electricity per day as a result.

He has also reduced the salaries of some employees in Gaza, while the number of Gazans receiving PA permits to travel for medical care has declined.

Hamas on Monday called for the measures to be reversed after dissolving the so-called administrative committee, seen as a rival government and created in March.

In a statement they called on Abbas to "take urgent steps to cancel all his punitive decisions and measures against our people in the Strip."

Shaath said Abbas wanted to reverse the punitive measures, but he did not give a timetable.

"When the president supported these economic measures (against Gaza) he said they will stop immediately once the self-rule governance of Hamas ends and the consensus government takes place. He didn't put any other conditions whatsoever."

Abbas is due to address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, after meeting with US President Donald Trump.
US President Donald Trump wants to hold a military parade in Washington for the July 4 Independence Day holiday

US President Donald Trump on Monday revealed plans to transform America's Independence Day celebrations next July 4 into a vast military parade, styled on France's Bastille Day.

"We're actually thinking about Fourth of July, Pennsylvania Avenue, having a really great parade to show our military strength," Trump said at the start of a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York.

During brief remarks, Trump raved about his visit to Paris last July 14 -- which featured military fly overs, parades of horse guards, assorted tanks and other military hardware.

"To a large extent, because of what I witnessed we may do something like that on July Fourth in Washington down Pennsylvania Avenue," said Trump, indicating he had discussed the event with White House chief of staff John Kelly.

"We had a lot of planes going over, and we had a lot of military might and it was really a beautiful thing to see," he said. "We're going to have to try and top it."

"We'll see if we can do it this year, but we certainly will be beginning to do that."

America's Independence Day is associated with fireworks and barbecues rather than the country's military might.

Trump aides, speaking on condition of anonymity, have confirmed that they considered a military parade for his inauguration last January.

Since then Trump has embraced military backdrop for several speeches and presidential visits, travelling twice to the USS Ford aircraft carrier.

Just this week he appeared in front of a B-2 bomber at a military base just outside Washington.

This latest plan is sure to fuel criticism from detractors, who allege Trump has struck the type of militaristic tone more commonly seen in authoritarian regimes.
The Iraqi military's ultimate target is Al-Qaim, the last Iraqi town in the hands of the Islamic State group before the border with Syria

Iraqi forces backed by paramilitary units were preparing Monday to attack the last stronghold of the Islamic State group in the western desert bordering Syria, an AFP correspondent said.

Armoured vehicles advanced on a road across a rocky plain as troops on pick-up trucks armed with machineguns watched from behind dusty embankments.

The vehicles were approaching Anna, one of three towns still in the jihadists' hands about 100 kilometres (60 miles) from the Syrian border, in the vast province of Anbar.

After retaking Anna and then Rawa, the Iraqi forces will target Al-Qaim, the last of the towns before the border with the Syrian province of Deir Ezzor.

The IS jihadists are also under pressure from Syrian government forces backed by Russian air power and an alliance of Arabs and Kurds supported by a US-led coalition.

"The objective is to bring the entire province of Anbar back into the fold of the nation," Lieutenant General Rashid Flaih, head of Anbar's paramilitary units, told AFP.

Operations had already been carried out and "many jihadists have been killed," said General Abed Jabbur Mathlum, the deputy commander for the area.

The battle for the towns, where more than 1,500 jihadists are thought to be holed up, comes as Iraq prepares to launch an assault on Hawija, another IS stronghold about 300 kilometres north of Baghdad.

Iraq dealt IS a heavy blow in July when it recaptured second Mosul from the jihadists three years after they overran swathes of the country's north.
US President Donald Trump is attending his first United Nations General Assembly and is expected to speak out strongly against Iran, which is believes is in breach of the spirit of its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers

France stepped up global efforts to convince US President Donald Trump not to abandon the Iran nuclear deal Monday, suggesting a way could be found to prolong its effects.

Trump has signalled he is ready to declare Iran in breach of its side of the 2015 accord -- which he has branded the "worst deal ever" -- as early as next month.

And if the White House "decertifies" Iran's compliance, this would open the way to the US Congress reimposing sanctions and perhaps provoke Iran to itself pull out.

The other world powers -- France, Britain, Germany, China and Russia -- who signed the accord continue to see it as the best way to prevent Iran from building a bomb.

But Washington argues that by pursuing a banned missile program and fomenting militant violence in its region, Iran is in breach of the spirit of a weak deal.

Not all US officials share Trump's total antipathy to the pact, but they want stronger controls on Iran's ability to resume weapons development when it begins to expire.

- Sunset clause -

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is also at the United Nations General Assembly and is expected to defend Tehran's compliance with the nuclear deal

America's European allies are desperate to save the deal and -- as world leaders gathered on Monday in New York for the UN General Assembly -- France spoke out.

Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian warned that scrapping the "essential" agreement would launch a regional arms race between "neighboring countries."

But he also said: "France will try to persuade President Trump of the importance of this choice, even if it can be completed by work for after 2025."

Le Drian was speaking ahead of a meeting between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, who also suggested in a speech last month that the accord could be improved.

Under the deal, limits on Iran's uranium enrichment will begin to expire in 2025 under "sunset clauses" and critics have said this is the weakest part of the deal.

"It's essential to maintain (the agreement) to prevent a spiral of proliferation that would encourage hardliners in Iran to pursue nuclear weapons," Le Drian said.

Under the nuclear deal, Iran surrendered much of its enriched uranium, dismantled a reactor and submitted nuclear sites to UN inspection.

For their part, Washington and Europe lifted some sanctions related to Iran's nuclear program, while retaining others tied to its "destabilizing" actions.

Hawks in Washington, with winks from Trump and some in his inner circle, are calling for tougher sanctions on Iran's ballistic missile program.

These, they argue, would not breach their side of the nuclear-only deal.

Meanwhile, Trump's top foreign policy officials, UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, have upped their rhetoric.

Haley went to Washington this month to deliver a speech laying out the case for Trump to find Iran in breach of the deal when he reports to Congress on October 15.

Tillerson is reportedly not convinced that destroying the accord is the best way forward, but tougher measures from allies would help him make this case to Trump.

- Iran, North Korea top UN agenda -

Iran and North Korea will dominate the annual gathering of world leaders, which opens on Tuesday with a series of addresses by Trump and Macron among other leaders.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is scheduled to speak on Wednesday.

Tillerson will join his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif on Wednesday for a meeting of the so-called E3+3 on the nuclear deal, chaired by the European Union.

Turning to North Korea, Le Drian said "very strong" pressure from sanctions would compel leader Kim Jong-Un to negotiate an end to his missile and nuclear programs.

"Military action is not required," said the foreign minister. "To bring North Korea to the negotiating table, the only possible way is to apply very strong pressure."

The UN Security Council last week imposed a new raft of sanctions on North Korea after it carried out its sixth and most powerful nuclear test.

The council will meet on Thursday to discuss ways of enforcing sanctions, which depends largely on cooperation from China, North Korea's largest trading partner.
US Defence Secretary James Mattis, seen here during an April 2017 visit to Kabul, says most of the 3,000 more US troops being deployed to Afghanistan are on their way

Most of the 3,000 additional US troops being deployed to Afghanistan under President Donald Trump's new strategy to shore up security are on their way to the war-torn country, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Monday.

Trump last month announced a new Afghanistan policy to knock back the Taliban, who are continuing to mount deadly attacks, control large areas of territory and are killing local Afghan forces in the thousands.

Mattis told Pentagon reporters that he didn't want to give precise numbers but said he was sending "exactly over 3,000" troops to Afghanistan, where they will bolster the approximately 11,000 American forces already there.

"Frankly I haven't signed the last of the orders right now as we look at specifics," he said.

"Most of them are on their way or under orders now and I'd prefer not to give any more information that helps the enemy."

US generals have for months been calling the situation in Afghanistan a "stalemate," despite years of support for Afghan partners, continued help from a NATO coalition and an overall cost in fighting and reconstruction to the United States of more than $1 trillion.

The war turns 16 next month, and is America's longest-ever conflict.

Trump, who had previously advocated a US withdrawal from Afghanistan, changed his mind after US military leaders convinced him that the costs of pulling out would be worse than remaining.

The president's new strategy for Afghanistan will take a page from successful US efforts over the past two years to strengthen Iraqi security forces against the Islamic State group with better training, logistical support and the battlefield backup of US artillery and air strikes on enemy positions.

The United States is also pressing for NATO partners to increase their own troop levels in Afghanistan.
CitiFinancial will pay $5,000 to affected servicemembers and $500 per account to compensate borrowers for lost equity

A Citigroup unit will pay $907,000 to settle allegations it illegally repossessed cars from US military servicemembers, the latest case of violations against soldiers, the Justice Department announced Monday.

CitiFinancial seized 164 cars between 2007 and 2010 despite knowing the borrowers were serving in the military, or had received orders to report for duty, and were protected under the law, the department said in a statement.

"This settlement provides financial relief and credit repair assistance to the servicemembers whose vehicles were repossessed by CitiFinancial," Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand said.

Filed in a Texas federal court, the settlement follows a separate $10.5 million agreement in 2015 with Santander Consumer USA, part of Spain's Santander Group, which purchased CitiFinancial's auto loans in 2010.

CitiFinancial will pay $5,000 to affected servicemembers and $500 per account to compensate borrowers for lost equity.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides protections for military members, empowering courts to block repossessions, require the refunding of some loan payments or appoint attorneys represent borrowers serving in the military.

The repossessions at issue in the latest settlement happened without the required court orders, according to the Justice Department.

As part of the Santander investigation, federal authorities learned CitiFinancial had sold Santander the right to collect debts from servicemembers after their cars had been repossessed.

In January, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau forced CitiFinancial to refund $4.4 million to consumers and pay a fine of an equal amount, finding the bank had failed to tell borrowers about options that would have helped them avoid foreclosure on their homes.
Foxconn is expected to invest up to $10 billion to build a flat-screen facility in the US state of Wisconsin

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker signed a bill on Monday granting $3 billion in tax incentives to Foxconn, paving the way for the Taiwan electronics giant to build a manufacturing plant in the state.

Foxconn, maker of Apple's iPhone, is expected to invest up to $10 billion to build a flat-screen facility in the state -- with the promise of at least 3,000 new jobs, and possibly as many as 13,000.

Wisconsin would provide up to $3 billion in tax subsidies as job promises are met -- the highest US government subsidy ever for a foreign company, according to fact-checking website PolitiFact.

Walker signed the incentive package into law Monday, despite opposition from Democrats who saw the tax subsidy as too generous.

Wisconsin is one of several "Rust Belt" states that buoyed Donald Trump to last year's surprise presidential election victory on his promise to bring back manufacturing jobs lost to automation and cross-border trade.

Trump hailed the deal at the White House in July, saying it displayed Foxconn's "faith and confidence in the future of the American economy."

Walker, a fellow Republican who competed against Trump for the party's presidential nomination, on Monday called the deal "transformational."

"We can see this is going to be a benefit all across the state," Walker said. "There are going to be good-paying jobs for people for generations to come."

Walker said the tax subsidies spread out over 15 years would spur jobs at the 20 million square foot (1.9 million square meter) Foxconn plant, as well as prompt growth in ancillary companies and related industries.

But Democrats and progressives have criticized the deal as a giveaway that will not pay off for at least 25 years. The state legislature approved the bill signed by Walker on a largely party-line vote.

The governor and state legislators "are responsible for committing us to send billions to a foreign corporation instead of investing it here," said Scot Ross, head of the progressive group One Wisconsin Now.

The Foxconn plant would break ground next year and begin operating in 2020, Walker said.
Nineteen members of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's security detail have been indicted for attacking protestors in Washington

The US government has frozen arms sales to the bodyguards of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after his aides attacked demonstrators in Washington last May, two senators said Monday.

Senators Patrick Leahy and Chris Van Hollen said the move came after they proposed their own legislation to halt any sales to the Turkish Presidential Protection Directorate.

The move would block a deal by New Hampshire-based Sig Sauer to sell $1.2 million worth of small arms to the bodyguard unit behind the May 16 assault on anti-Erdogan protesters during a presidential visit to Washington.

"This sale to President Erdogan's personal security guards should never have been approved, given their history of excessive force," Leahy and Van Hollen said in a statement.

"We should also stop selling weapons to units of the Turkish National Police that have been arbitrarily arresting and abusing Turkish citizens who peacefully criticize the government."

Nineteen members of Erdogan's security detail have been indicted over the daylight attack in front of the Turkish ambassador's residence that saw several demonstrators sent to hospital for serious injuries.

Two Turkish-Americans were arrested and pleaded innocent to assault charges on September 7. The others, including 15 Turkish nationals and two Turkish-Canadians, remain at large outside the United States.

Erdogan, who labeled the protesters "terrorists," early this month blasted the US indictment of his bodyguards, saying the case was a "scandalous demonstration of how American justice works."
A look at what's happening all around the majors Sunday:

___

SHUTOUT STREAK

Baseball fans take a selfie with Los Angeles Dodgers' Curtis Granderson, left, during a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017, in Washington. The Dodgers won 3-2. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg tries to extend his franchise record of 34 straight scoreless innings when he starts at night against the Dodgers. Strasburg is 13-4 going into this matchup of NL division leaders vs. Hyun-Jin Ryu. Los Angeles has won four in a row since its 11-game losing streak, and is going for a sweep at Washington.

CENTER OF ATTENTION

Jason Kipnis is expected to return from the disabled list for Cleveland and pick up a new position: center field. Kipnis last played the outfield as a minor leaguer in 2009, but an injury to rookie Bradley Zimmer has created a hole in center that the two-time All-Star second baseman is set to fill. "I'm pretty sure I've got it in me," Kipnis said earlier this week. "I think I can still do it." Kipnis is scheduled to play at least five innings in center against Kansas City.

RIGHT PRICE

Red Sox lefty David Price could make a relief appearance when the AL East leaders wrap up their series at Tropicana Field. He hasn't pitched since July 22 because of elbow inflammation, and manager John Farrell recently said Price would work out of the bullpen. Price's last game as a reliever was in 2015 during the AL playoffs with Toronto; the last time he relieved in a regular-season game was 2010 with Tampa Bay.

WAIT AND SEE

The Cubs plan to evaluate injured right-hander Jake Arrieta a day after he threw a 42-pitch bullpen session. The 2015 NL Cy Young Award winner has been out since Sept. 4 with a right hamstring strain, and Chicago wants to see how he responds to Saturday's bullpen before determining his next step. Arrieta was 4-1 with a 1.21 ERA over six starts in August.
LONDON (AP) - British police and hospital staff are trying to locate the mother of a newborn baby who was abandoned in an east London park.

Police say they are worried about the mother's welfare after finding a newborn baby boy carefully wrapped in a white blanket.

Police were called Sunday morning after the baby was found. They took the infant to a hospital where he is receiving care. Detective Jim Foley made a direct appeal to the mother, asking her to contact police, a hospital or her doctor.

He says "it's really important that we know you are safe."

Police also appealed to the public for information that might help authorities reunite the baby with his mother.
COX'S BAZAR, Bangladesh (AP) - The Latest on the violence in Myanmar and the exodus of Rohingya Muslims into Bangladesh (all times local):

5:10 p.m.

Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has condemned the violence against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar and called on the country's government and its leader, Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi, to no longer remain silent.

A Rohingya Muslim woman, who crossed over from Myanmar into Bangladesh, serves dinner to her son inside their temporary shelter at Taiy Khali refugee camp, in Bangladesh, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. United Nations agencies say an estimated 409,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled to Bangladesh since Aug. 25, when deadly attacks by a Rohingya insurgent group on police posts prompted Myanmar's military to launch "clearance operations" in Rakhine state. Those fleeing have described indiscriminate attacks by security forces and Buddhist mobs. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)

Jolie on Sunday told weekly Welt am Sonntag: "It's absolutely clear that the violence by the army needs to stop and that the return of the refugees has to be permitted - and that the Rohingya should be given civil rights."

Jolie added: "We all wish that Aung San Suu Kyi will in this situation be the voice of human rights."

Suu Kyi has been harshly criticized for not condemning the violence.

Rohingya have faced decades of persecution by the majority Buddhist population in Myanmar, where they are denied citizenship. The current crisis that has led more than 400,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh in the past three weeks.

A Rohingya Muslim boy Shahidul Alam, who crossed over from Myanmar into Bangladesh with his family, pauses for a photograph as he walks back after collecting water from a handpump near Mushani refugee camp, Bangladesh, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. The U.N. has described the violence against the Rohingya in Myanmar as ethnic cleansing, a term that describes an organized effort to rid an area of an ethnic group by displacement, deportation or killing. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)

A Rohingya Muslim, who crossed over from Myanmar into Bangladesh, walks towards the nearest refugee camps carrying his belongings at Teknaf, Bangladesh, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. United Nations agencies say an estimated 409,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled to Bangladesh since Aug. 25, when deadly attacks by a Rohingya insurgent group on police posts prompted Myanmar's military to launch "clearance operations" in Rakhine state. Those fleeing have described indiscriminate attacks by security forces and Buddhist mobs. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)
LISBON, Portugal (AP) - Porto beat Rio Ave 2-1 away from home on Sunday to claim its sixth win in six matches in the Portuguese league this season.

Danilo Pereira broke through for Porto in the 54th minute before Moussa Marega scored what proved to be the winner in the 67th. Nuno Santos pulled one back for Rio Ave with 10 minutes left.

Rio Ave lost defender Marcao to a second yellow card in the 89th.

Benfica lost 2-1 at Boavista on Saturday, when Sporting Lisbon beat Tondela 2-0 to keep its perfect start.

The weekend left Porto and Sporting atop the league with 18 points. Maritimo is third with 15, while defending champion Benfica is fourth with 13.
EL DORADO, Ark. (AP) - Hannah Green shot a course-record 8-under 64 on Sunday to win the Symetra Tour's Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout and wrap up an LPGA Tour card.

The 20-year-old Australian earned $15,000 for her second victory of her rookie season to jump from sixth to fourth on the money list with $76,290. The top 10 after the final three events will earn LPGA Tour cards.

"I'm really happy and excited, but it doesn't feel real quite yet," Green said. "I'm really pleased with how today turned out and I'm glad I shot a really good score to get the win."

With father Tau serving as her caddie, Green finished at 14-under 205 at Mystic Creek to beat France's Celine Boutier by a stroke.

"My ball-striking was definitely there today," Green said. "Going bogey-free on this course means everything tied together today."

Boutier, also a two-time winner this season, closed with a 69. The former Duke player earned $9,715 to move from second to first on the money list with $107,876.

Green also won the Sara Bay Classic in April in Florida. Four years ago after graduating from high school in Perth, she devised a plan to reach the LPGA Tour.

"I set a plan and I wasn't going to college in the U.S. or studying in Australia, I just said that I was turning professional and I wanted to be on the LPGA," Green said. I've been dreaming about this for at least four years so to have it come true is awesome."

Green also received a $10,000 diamond bracelet from Murphy-Pritard Jewelers.
WASHINGTON (AP) - Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, with changes to several others proposed.

A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou.

Two marine monuments in the Pacific Ocean also would be reduced under Zinke's memo, which has not been officially released. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the memo, which was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

FILE - This May 23, 2016, file photo, shows the northernmost boundary of the proposed Bears Ears region, along the Colorado River, in southeastern Utah. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou (Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, File)

Trump ordered the review earlier this year after complaining about improper "land grabs" by former presidents, including Barack Obama.

National monument designations add protections for lands revered for their natural beauty and historical significance with the goal of preserving them for future generations. The restrictions aren't as stringent as national parks, but some policies include limits on mining, timber cutting and recreational activities such as riding off-road vehicles.

The monuments under review were designated by four presidents over the last two decades. Several are about the size of the state of Delaware, including Mojave Trails in California, Grand-Staircase Escalante in Utah and Bears Ears, which is on sacred tribal land.

No other president has tried to eliminate a monument, but some have trimmed and redrawn boundaries 18 times, according to the National Park Service.

Zinke told the AP last month that unspecified boundary adjustments for some monuments designated over the past four decades will be included in the recommendations submitted to Trump. None of the sites would revert to new ownership, he said, while public access for uses such as hunting, fishing or grazing would be maintained or restored.

He also spoke of protecting tribal interests and historical land grants, pointing to monuments in New Mexico, where Hispanic ranchers have opposed two monuments proclaimed by Obama.

Zinke declined to say whether portions of the monuments would be opened up to oil and gas drilling, mining, logging and other industries for which Trump has advocated. It was not clear from the memo how much energy development would be allowed on the sites recommended for changes, although the memo cites increased public access as a key goal.

A spokeswoman for Zinke referred questions Sunday night to the White House, which did not offer immediate comment.

If Trump adopts the recommendations, it would quiet some of the worst fears of his opponents, who warned that vast public lands and marine areas could be lost to states or private interests.

But significant reductions in the size of the monuments, especially those created by Obama, would mark the latest in a string of actions where Trump has sought to erode his Democratic predecessor's legacy.

The recommendations cap an unprecedented four-month review based on Trump's claim that the century-old Antiquities Act had been misused by past presidents to create oversized monuments that hinder energy development, grazing and other uses.

The review raised alarm among conservationists who said protections could be lost for areas that are home to ancient cliff dwellings, towering sequoia trees, deep canyons and ocean habitats. They've vowed to file lawsuits if Trump attempts any changes that would reduce the size of monuments or rescind their designations.

Zinke had previously announced that no changes would be made at six national monuments - in Montana, Colorado, Idaho, California, Arizona and Washington. He also said that Bears Ears monument in Utah should be downsized.

In addition to shrinking six monuments, Zinke recommends changes at several other sites, including two national monuments in New Mexico: Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte.

He also recommended changes to Katahdin Woods and Waters in Maine.

Jamie Williams, president of the Wilderness Society, said the recommendations apparently made by Zinke "represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands" by the Trump administration.

"This callous proposal will needlessly punish local, predominantly rural communities that depend on parks and public lands for outdoor recreation, sustainable jobs and economic growth," Williams said in a statement.

"We believe the Trump administration has no legal authority to alter or erase protections for national treasures. If President Trump acts in support of these recommendations, The Wilderness Society will move swiftly to challenge those actions in court."

FILE - This May 30, 1997, file photo, shows the varied terrain of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Boulder, Utah. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac, File)

FILE - In this May 9, 2017, file photo, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke rides a horse in the new Bears Ears National Monument near Blanding, Utah. Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou (Scott G Winterton/The Deseret News via AP, File)

FILE- In this May 26, 2017, photo, Susie Gelbart walks near petroglyphs at the Gold Butte National Monument near Bunkerville, Nev. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)
NEW YORK (AP) - It was, not surprisingly, a night for politics, with everyone from host Stephen Colbert to Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda and Alec Baldwin getting in zingers about Donald Trump - all to be upstaged by Sean Spicer himself, in a controversial appearance that set social media afire. But Emmy night was not only about politics.

It was also about diversity and new voices, with notable wins, among others, for Sterling K. Brown, the first black actor in nearly 20 years to win for lead actor in a drama; for Lena Waithe, the first black woman to win for comedy writing, and Donald Glover, the first black director to win the comedy award (and best actor, too.) Riz Ahmed's acting win was also first for Asian men. Stories about women won big: "Big Little Lies," ''The Handmaid's Tale" and "Veep" won the top three categories. But there was a notable paucity of Latino and Asian winners.

Some notable moments:

Sean Spicer speaks at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

YES, THAT WAS REALLY HIM

Colbert had been hitting on Trump early and often in his opening monologue, but there were gasps of genuine shock in the crowd when he called out for "Sean," and the former White House press secretary wheeled a podium onstage to spoof his highly dubious claims on Trump's behalf about the inauguration crowd size. "This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys period," he announced in faux seriousness, "both in person and around the world." There were plenty of laughs, but on Twitter, many questioned whether Spicer should have been there at all. "congrats to @seanspicer for his new job as the punchline to an unfunny joke," wrote Dan Pfeiffer, one of President Barack Obama's former aides.

A BIG WIN - AND THEN A MIC CUT - FOR STERLING K. BROWN

A year after winning in a different category for playing Christopher Darden, Brown became the first black actor in 19 years to win the top drama series trophy, for "This Is Us." He paid tribute to the last African-American man to win the category, Andre Braugher, and also saluted his castmates, "the best white family a brother could have." The emotional moment was marred by the unfortunate decision to cut Brown's speech short, a particularly sour note on a night that celebrated so many diverse voices. Waithe, who shared the best comedy writing award with "Master of None" co-creator Aziz Ansari, expressed gratitude to Emmy voters: "Thank you for embracing a little Indian boy from South Carolina and a little queer black girl from the south side of Chicago." And Ahmed became the first Asian man to win an acting Emmy for his role in "The Night Of," for which he won best actor in a limited series or movie.

A '9 TO 5' REUNION BECOMES A TRUMP ROAST

Perhaps the most biting Trump commentary came, unexpectedly, from the crowd-pleasing reunion of Dolly Parton, Fonda and Tomlin, stars of the 1980 hit movie "9 to 5." Fonda declared that back then, the women refused "to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" (their boss in the film.) To which Tomlin quickly added, to huge cheers: "In 2017 we STILL refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying hypocritical bigot." Parton, for her part, chose to joke about her hope of getting a "Grace & Frankie" vibrator in her swag bag.

STORIES ABOUT WOMEN RULE

Winning the limited series award for "Big Little Lies," co-producers and stars Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman issued a call for more meaty, important roles for women. "Bring women to the front of their own stories," Witherspoon said. "More great roles for women, please!" said Kidman (who also won for acting in the hugely popular series.) The winning shows in the other two major categories also featured women's stories: "The Handmaid's Tale," and "Veep." Backstage, Elisabeth Moss, who won the drama acting prize, said "incredible progress" has been made, but "there's still a lot of work to be done. There are still meetings you walk into and wonder if they say 'no,' because it's a show by or about a woman." And comedy actress winner Julia Louis-Dreyfus said she hoped "this is the beginning of something even better in our country, and the world. I think the world would be a better place if more women were in charge."

'SNL' HAS A GOOD NIGHT

"Saturday Night Live," like the nighttime talk shows, has capitalized on the 2016 election to huge success. Lorne Michaels, accepting the variety sketch series award, recalled how when the show won an Emmy in 1976, "I remember thinking ... there would never be another season as crazy, as unpredictable, as frightening, as exhausting, or as exhilarating. Turns out I was wrong." Kate McKinnon, who won as supporting actress in a comedy, paid tribute to Hillary Clinton - whom she memorably played - for her "grace and grit." Baldwin, who won for his Trump portrayal, spoke directly to Trump: "I suppose I should say, 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.'"

IN MEMORIAM SNUBS

It always seems to happen: There's a major omission in the memorial segment, and social media notices right away. This time, it was actor Harry Dean Stanton, who died Friday at age 91, and comedians Dick Gregory and Charlie Murphy. "Thinking of my brothers Dick Gregory + Charlie Murphy," tweeted rapper Common, after the snub. "I'll never forget you. I miss you both."

Sterling K. Brown accepts the award for outstanding lead actor in a drama series for "This Is Us" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

Lily Tomlin, from left, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda present the award for outstanding supporting actor in a limited series or a movie at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)
BERLIN (AP) - Germany's foreign minister is calling for direct talks with North Korea in the standoff over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs.

Officials in Germany, which holds an election Sunday, have been adamant that there must be a diplomatic solution. Chancellor Angela Merkel has pointed to the negotiations that led to Iran curtailing its nuclear program as a possible model.

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel told Monday's edition of the Bild daily that the world should wait for sanctions to bite, but "visions and courageous steps" also are needed.

This undated photo distributed on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017, by the North Korean government shows what was said to be the test launch of an intermediate range Hwasong-12 in North Korea. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

He said "a security guarantee other than the nuclear bomb" is needed for North Korea and pointed to Cold War detente as an example. Gabriel said that requires direct negotiations with North Korea and argued that the U.S., China and Russia should participate.

In this undated file photo distributed on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017, by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, celebrates what was said to be the test launch of an intermediate range Hwasong-12 missile at an undisclosed location in North Korea. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump on Monday named a lawyer and former NFL player as executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as the administration faces criticism from those institutions of promises unkept.

Jonathan Holifield, who also writes and consults on the topics of innovation and inclusiveness, told leaders and students that HBCUs must contribute more to the American economy.

"There is no path to sustain new job creation, shared prosperity and enduring national competition without the current and increased contributions of historical black colleges and universities," Holifield told students at the Old Executive Office Building next to the White House.

FILE - In this Feb. 27, 2017, file photo, President Donald Trump meets with leaders of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. There likely will be few smiles on the faces of presidents of historically black colleges and universities on their second visit to the White House this year. An annual gathering in the nation's capital for the nation's HBCUs has been reduced to a two-day summit, further aggravating college officials who are already frustrated with the White House's slow pace on its promises to them. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, file)

His appointment answers one complaint from the leaders HBCUs, who are making their second visit to the White House this year amid strains with the Trump administration over unfulfilled promises. Trump has said he would move the office of historically black colleges and universities from the Education Department to the White House. He promised support for the schools during his presidential campaign and Black History Month meetings, when college presidents posed for pictures with Trump in the White House.

But the annual gathering in the nation's capital for those schools has been reduced to a two-day summit, further aggravating college officials. And Trump was not in Washington to receive the visitors Monday. Instead, he was in New York for the U.N. General Assembly.

"Everyone's uptight in this day and age with our current president and with what's going on," said Ty Couey, president of the National HBCU Alumni Associations. "Things are out of control."

Advocates for the schools say there has been little to no action from the Trump administration. The institutions have not seen increases in their funding in Trump's proposed budget, and they had to beat back a White House push to call construction money for historically black colleges and universities unconstitutional. All that followed the backlash after school presidents posed with Trump for a photo in the Oval Office.

That led to calls from the colleges' major advocates to postpone the annual National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week Conference.

"It has become painstakingly clear that these promises are not being kept," said Rep. Alma Adams, D-N.C., who leads the Congressional HBCU Caucus.

"In this current environment, and with zero progress made on any of their priorities, it would be highly unproductive to ask HBCU presidents to come back to Washington," she said.

The week is normally planned by the White House HBCU Initiative's executive director along with a presidential HBCU advisory board, said Johnny C. Taylor, president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, a nonprofit organization that has supported public historically black colleges and universities since 1987.

Responding to "feedback from key stakeholders," the Education Department sent an email Sept. 5 saying it was "postponing this year's National HBCU Week Conference" and replacing it with "more intimate conversations."

Omarosa Manigault Newman, a HBCU graduate and assistant to the president and director of communications for the White House Office of Public Liaison, told The Associated Press in a telephone interview last week that the conference was simply scaled back. She said the White House intended to announce an executive director for the initiative on Monday.

Also announced Monday was a lineup of 62 HBCU "All-Stars" - students who serve as the initiative's ambassadors to black colleges.

The leaders were expected to discuss capital financing, improving student outcomes, alliances with the tech sector and post-secondary degrees. Students are getting a tour of the White House, mentoring and a special tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

"President Trump's commitment to the HBCU Community remains strong and unwavering," Newman said in a statement. "Registration remains at capacity and we are looking forward to welcoming HBCU presidents, students and guests."

Trump received 8 percent of the African-American vote during the election. Since then, he has generated controversy through several statements, including saying last month said there were "very fine people" among the white nationalists, white supremacists and neo-Nazis protesting the possible removal of a Confederate statue in Charlottesville, Virginia.

"There is legitimate concern that some may want to use this event to protest, boycott or much worse, refuse to work with the Trump Administration and the Republican-controlled Congress," Taylor said.

The White House is not the only game in town, Couey said.

"A lot of our time is not spent on Trump. He's just one individual," he said. "We have many friends in Congress that we interact with; we have many friends within the federal government. These are the people we're dealing with, the people who actually get things done."

Adams now plans to hold an inaugural "HBCU Brain Trust" meeting during the Congressional Black Caucus' annual meeting.

"Despite the ongoing drama and unnecessary distractions of the president's own making, we plan to move forward with opportunities for HBCU leaders to engage in substantive dialogues that put our schools and students first," Adams said.

___

Associated Press writer Darlene Superville contributed to this story.

___

Jesse J. Holland covers race and ethnicity for The Associated Press. Contact him at jholland@ap.org, on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/jessejholland or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jessejholland.
MADRID (AP) - Barcelona has to rejig its attack again.

Just when Ousmane Dembele was getting used to his role as Neymar's replacement, the young forward was struck by a thigh injury that will keep him sidelined for up to four months.

With the transfer market closed and no other top forwards in the squad, Barcelona has to go back to the drawing board to find another partner for Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi, who has been carrying the load with eight goals in seven matches.

Barcelona's Ousmane Dembele, centre, leaves the pitch injured during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Getafe and Barcelona at the Alfonso Perez stadium in Getafe, outside Madrid, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. Barcelona won 2-1. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

The club leads the Spanish league after winning its first four matches. Its next match is on Tuesday against Eibar.

Dembele injured his left thigh tendon on Saturday in the first half of the 2-1 win at Getafe. He will undergo surgery on Tuesday in Finland. He was photographed in a wheelchair on Monday as he made his way to the Barcelona airport.

Gerard Deulofeu replaced Dembele at Getafe. The responsibility to help the attack may fall again on Deulofeu, who failed to impress when he was first given the chance to replace Neymar.

Barcelona had not yet signed Dembele when it promoted Deulofeu to try to fill the hole left by Neymar after he moved to Paris Saint-Germain. Deulofeu struggled in the spotlight, though, and improved only after being demoted to a secondary role. He eventually started to play well off the bench or when getting a chance to start in the absence of the regular starters.

Coach Ernesto Valverde may also replace Dembele by improvising other players in the position, including Denis Suarez, Sergi Roberto, Aleix Vidal, Andre Gomes or Paco Alcacer. It can also rely on youth players such as Jose Arnaiz or Carles Alena. Going forward, Arda Turan and Rafinha - who are injured - may get to play up front with Messi and Suarez.

"We have a lot of options to replace (Dembele), both in the first team and in the B team," Valverde said on Monday.

Barcelona failed to bring in any other top forwards in the offseason, with its only signings being Paulinho and Deulofeu, a product of the club's youth academy who had been playing with Everton.

Dembele was making only his third appearance with Barcelona. The France forward is likely to miss the entire group stage of the Champions League.

"He will need to have a lot of patience and work a lot on his own," Valverde said. "There will be good days and bad days, but he is young and will recover. We will all be supporting him."

Valverde said that maybe Dembele could have avoided the back-heel pass in which he got injured.

"Maybe that wouldn't have happened to a veteran player," said Valverde, a former striker.

Barcelona signed Dembele from Borussia Dortmund in a deal that could reach nearly 150 million euros ($180 million), the biggest in the club's history.

___

More AP Spanish soccer coverage: https://apnews.com/tag/LaLiga

___

Follow Tales Azzoni on http://twitter.com/tazzoni
KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) - Thirteen people, including 12 Tanzanian nationals, have been killed in a motor accident on a highway in central Uganda, police said Monday.

Most of the victims were traveling in a minibus that crashed head-on with a truck on Sunday night, Ugandan police spokesman Asan Kasingye told a news conference in the capital, Kampala.

The Tanzanians were returning home from a wedding in Kampala.

Seven other passengers in the minibus were seriously injured and "in critical condition." A passenger in the truck was killed while the driver was seriously injured, Kasingye said.

The highway leading to western Uganda has been notorious over the years for the high number of lethal accidents usually blamed on irresponsible drivers.

In July 2016 at least 17 people were killed in a multi-vehicle accident on the highway, which leads to neighboring Rwanda and often has heavy trucks carrying imports from the Indian Ocean coast.

Deadly motor accidents are frequent in this East African country where roads and highways are narrow and often pot-holed.
VIENNA (AP) - U.S. President Donald Trump warned Monday that Washington will walk away from a nuclear deal it agreed to with Iran and five other nations if it deems that the International Atomic Energy Agency is not tough enough in monitoring it.

Iran, however, said the greatest threat to the nuclear agreement is U.S. hostility.

The warning from Trump came in a message to the U.N. agency's annual meeting, being held in Vienna, that was read by U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry.

CORRECTS DATE - Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, Yukiya Amano of Japan delivers a speech during the opening of the general conference of the IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

The United States asserts that Iran is obligated to open its military sites to IAEA inspection on demand if the agency suspects unreported nuclear activities at any of them. That's something Tehran stridently rejects, and Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi urged the agency and its head, Yukiya Amano, to "resist such unacceptable demands."

Asserting that Iran is fully complying with terms of the accord, Salehi said the greatest threat to its survival is "the American administration's hostile attitude."

But Trump, as quoted by Perry, suggested the deal could stand or fail on IAEA access to Iranian military sites, declaring "we will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal."

Amano also has said the IAEA's policing authority extends to Iranian military sites, if necessary. But he said Monday that Iran "is fulfilling the commitments it entered into" under the deal, which took effect early last year and offers sanctions relief in exchange for limits on Iranian nuclear programs that could be turned toward making weapons.

The U.S. administration has faced two 90-day certification deadlines to state whether Iran was meeting the conditions needed to continue enjoying sanctions relief under the deal and has both times backed away from a showdown. But Trump more recently has said he does not expect to certify Iran's compliance with an October deadline looming.

On North Korea, Trump, as cited by Perry, again suggested that a military strike remained on the table to counter Pyongyang's rapidly expanding nuclear weapons capacity, saying Washington "continues to consider all options" to meet the threat.

And he said the international community "must continue to hold Syria accountable for its past construction of a clandestine nuclear reactor."

Syria denies building such a facility and the issue has faded, due in part to verification difficulties created by the Syrian war. But Amano has gone on record as saying that a target destroyed by Israeli warplanes in the Syrian desert in 2007 was the covert site of a future nuclear reactor.

CORRECTS DATE - Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, Yukiya Amano of Japan delivers a speech during the opening of the general conference of the IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry delivers a speech during the general conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry delivers a speech during the general conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Ali Akbar Salehi waits for the beginning of the general conference at the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Ali Akbar Salehi delivers a speech during the general conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Ali Akbar Salehi delivers a speech during a general conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, Yukiya Amano of Japan is seen on screens as he delivers a speech at opening of the general conference of the IAEA, in Vienna, Austria, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Ronald Zak)
ATHENS, Greece (AP) - Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is urging ministers to get on with reforms demanded by creditors so the country can exit its bailout program in 10 months.

Tsipras told his cabinet Monday in televised remarks that the country was on course to outperform budget targets set by creditors for the second year running. He said Greece's surplus, before debt servicing costs are taken into account, will be higher than the 1.75 percent of annual GDP demanded.

Bailout inspectors are currently in Athens but negotiations on the next batch of loans are not expected to start until November. Conditions for future disbursements include the continued reorganization of public sector personnel and further deregulation of the state-dominated energy utility.

The previous bailout review was delayed by more than six months.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Columbus police continue to use excessive force against residents and, in particular, blacks nearly 20 years after the government sued over similar allegations, according to a federal lawsuit filed against the city.

The department also fails to properly train, supervise, monitor and discipline officers who use excessive force, said the civil rights complaint filed Sunday on behalf of defendant Timothy Davis.

At issue is the Sept. 1 arrest of Davis inside a Columbus convenience store where officers tried to arrest him on a warrant alleging he assaulted an officer last year.

The lawsuit was filed as unrest continues in St. Louis after a white former police officer was acquitted in the killing of a black suspect.

Monday morning, a racially mixed crowd of demonstrators locked arms and marched quietly through downtown St. Louis to protest a judge's announcement that he found Jason Stockley not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith. The march came one day after hundreds of riot police mobilized in downtown St. Louis, arresting more than 80 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism. The arrests came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

In the Ohio case, cellphone video of the arrest showed officers struggling to subdue Davis and eventually punching and kicking him. Afterward, police spokesman Sgt. Dean Worthington said use of force depends on a suspect's behavior and police policy does allow for punching and kicking.

Officers at the scene shielded fellow officers attacking Davis to keep witnesses from seeing and tried to cover up what happened by falsely claiming Davis put them in harm, the lawsuit said.

Last week, police chief Kimberly Jacobs said an officer was pulled from patrol duties over comments he made during Davis' arrest.

"I'm going to choke the life out of you," the officer said at one point, referring to how he would have handled the arrest.

Jacobs said she was appalled by the inappropriate and unprofessional comments made by the officer.

WCMH-TV reported last week that Davis has twice refused to attend a post-arrest court hearing, saying he needs a wheelchair which hasn't been provided. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office says a wheelchair isn't medically necessary.

Davis, 31, faces a preliminary charge of resisting arrest.

Seventeen years after the Justice Department sued Columbus, "the unconstitutional conduct of the City of Columbus Police Department towards civilians, particularly African-Americans, has not changed," the lawsuit said.

Sunday's lawsuit seeks unspecified financial damages and an end to alleged excessive force use.

"Our officers are sworn to protect and serve," said police department spokeswoman Denise Alex-Bouzounis in a statement Monday, "not to protect and serve those of a particular race, ethnic background, or socioeconomic status." She declined further comment.

In 2004, the Justice Department officially closed a case that accused Columbus police of illegal searches and using excessive force.

A federal judge in 2002 dismissed the department's lawsuit after the city made changes on the use of police force and handling of complaints against officers.

The Justice Department said it was satisfied the city complied with its new policies. As part of the dismissal in September 2002, the city agreed to give the government videotapes of recruit and on-the-job training.

The Justice Department in 1999 accused officers of routinely violating citizens' civil rights through illegal searches, false arrests and excessive force. The 1999 lawsuit said the abuses were condoned because police supervisors did not adequately discipline the officers who committed them. The city and police union denied the allegations.

The city was the first in the nation to fight such a lawsuit in court.

The department also faces ongoing criticism for the fatal police shooting of 13-year-old Tyre King in September 2016, and the June 2016 shooting of Henry Green by plainclothes officers working in a summer program targeting violence-prone neighborhoods. Both King and Green were black and the officers who shot them were white.

Grand juries cleared officers in both shootings.

In July, the city fired a white officer seen kicking a subdued black suspect in the head. The officer is appealing; he was also involved in the fatal shooting of Henry Green.

___

Andrew Welsh-Huggins can be reached on Twitter at https://twitter.com/awhcolumbus.
NEW YORK (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump (all times local):

10:50 p.m.

Ivanka Trump is meeting with foreign officials as the United Nations General Assembly gathers in New York this week.

President Donald Trump speaks during the "Reforming the United Nations: Management, Security, and Development" meeting during the United Nations General Assembly, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, in New York. From left, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Trump, UN Ambassador Nicky Haley, White House chief of staff John Kelly, and National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

A White House official says President Donald Trump's daughter - and senior adviser - is holding a series of meetings on issues she has prioritized, including women's economic development.

She met Monday with Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Peter Maurer, President of the International Committee for the Red Cross.

Later in the week, Ivanka Trump will meet with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and will have coffee with Queen Maxima of the Netherlands.

Ivanka Trump is also expected to attend her father's first address to the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday.

___

9:30 p.m.

President Donald Trump's trip to survey hurricane damage in the Caribbean is being delayed - because of another hurricane.

Hurricane Maria was upgraded Monday to a Category 5 storm - the most powerful. It was on a path to approach Puerto Rico by Tuesday.

Trump told reporters last week that he was planning to visit Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands after both U.S. territories were damaged by Hurricane Irma.

But White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders says the trip is being delayed due to Maria.

Sanders says the White House is monitoring the situation and doesn't want to disrupt any preparedness efforts by having Trump visit.

Trump has surveyed storm-damaged areas of Texas, Louisiana and Florida following Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

___

7:20 p.m.

President Donald Trump says the U.S. is prepared to take further action against the Venezuelan government if President Nicolas Maduro continues down the path of authoritarianism.

Trump spoke at a dinner in New York with leaders of Brazil, Colombia, Panama and Argentina. Venezuela's deepening economic and political crisis was under discussion.

Trump says Maduro has inflicted terrible misery and suffering on his people. Trump says Venezuela once was one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but now its people are starving and the country is collapsing. He says the situation is "completely unacceptable" and called on the other leaders to be prepared to do more.

Trump has sanctioned Venezuela and at one point wouldn't rule out U.S. military action. He says additional actions are possible.

___

6:10 p.m.

The Trump administration says President Donald Trump's meetings with the leaders of France and Israel were heavily focused on Iran's "malign activities" in the Middle East.

Brian Hook of the State Department says the president shared his concerns about Iran with French President Emmanuel Macron (mah-KROHN') and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH'-hoo).

Hook says they discussed working together to address Iran's missile and nuclear program and destabilizing activities. He says the leaders spoke about the need to prevent Iran from establishing any deep roots or organizing in Syria.

Trump held the meetings along the sidelines of the United Nations. He's scheduled to address the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday.

__

3:30 p.m.

President Donald Trump says he is considering having an armed forces parade in Washington on the Fourth of July to showcase the nation's military might.

Trump met Monday with French president Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meetings.

Trump reminisced about how much he enjoyed watching France's military parade while in Paris on Bastille Day.

He then said he was considering ordering up a similar spectacle for Pennsylvania Avenue, potentially as soon as next year. Trump said he asked his chief of staff, John Kelly, to look into it.

Trump and Macron were also slated to discuss other international concerns, including terrorism and security, during their meeting.

___

1:20 p.m.

President Donald Trump is meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and says they "are giving it an absolute go'" in Middle East peace talks.

Trump on Monday said that "we're working very hard" to reach a deal between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

Netanyahu said that Israel's alliance with the United States has been "never stronger" than now under the Trump administration. He also blasted the Iran nuclear agreement.

Asked if the U.S. would stay in that deal, Trumped answered only "you'll see very soon."

Trump's meeting with Netanyahu was the first of the many world leader confabs he is scheduled to have on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly this week.

He is slated to meet with the Palestinians in the coming days.

___

12:30 p.m.

The White House says President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have discussed North Korea's continued nuclear weapons and ballistic missile tests.

The leaders spoke by phone Monday while Trump is in New York for this week's U.N. General Assembly session. Xi skipped this year's gathering.

The White House says Trump and Xi committed to "maximizing pressure" on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of U.N. Security Council resolutions.

China sits on the security council, which has voted unanimously on two separate occasions in recent weeks to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its weapons testing.

Trump has also been pressing Xi to use his influence to help rein in North Korea.

___

10:05 a.m.

President Donald Trump is pressing the need for reform at the United Nations as he speaks at a meeting on U.N. reform ahead of the U.N. General Assembly in New York.

He is applauding efforts by the secretary general to reform the organization "so that it better serves the people we all represent."

Trump adds that the U.N. "has not reached its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement."

He says the group spends too much money and has too many staffers, and declares: "We are not seeing results in line with this investment."

He also says no member state should shoulder a disproportionate share of the cost.

Trump's first appearance before the organization is at a U.S.-sponsored event on reforming the 193-member organization.

___

4:15 a.m.

President Donald Trump is plunging into a foreign policy-focused week that will be anchored by his first address to the United Nations General Assembly.

Trump planned Monday to address a U.S.-sponsored event on reforming the 193-member world body.

Trump criticized the U.N. during the presidential campaign as weak and incompetent, but has softened his tone since taking office. Trump wants the U.N. to cut spending and make other operational changes.

The president also meets separately Monday with the leaders of Israel and France, and hosts Latin American leaders for dinner.

United States President Donald Trump speaks with U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley before a meeting during the United Nations General Assembly at U.N. headquarters, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
"Alone" (Liveright Publishing Co.), by Michael Korda

Interest in the 1940 cross-channel evacuation of British soldiers amid the French collapse in World War II has sprung to life this summer, thanks to Christopher Nolan's blockbuster movie "Dunkirk." On its heels comes "Alone," Michael Korda's masterful account of that epic drama and its impact on his family.

Few of the soldiers, airmen and mariners whose heroism allowed Britain to carry on a singlehanded battle against Nazi Germany are alive today. Korda was only 6 years old at the time, living in London with his filmmaking family whose roots were in central Europe. But he was remarkably aware of events that propelled Europe into war.

This cover image released by Liveright / WW Norton shows "Alone: Britain, Churchill, and Dunkirk: Defeat Into Victory," by Michael Korda. (Liveright/WW Norton via AP)

Korda recounts how he and his family had to cut short their August vacation in France as war clouds thickened in the weeks prior to Adolf Hitler's invasion of Poland. They were glued to the radio for Neville Chamberlain's grim announcement that Britain was at war. The author recalls air raid sirens, the family's temporary move to the countryside and his evacuation to a farm in Yorkshire followed by his stay at a boarding school on the Isle of Wight before his return to London.

Korda's family was moviemaking royalty. His uncle, Alexander, was a renowned producer and director, married to actress Merle Oberon, and his father, Vincent, was a film art director. When war broke out, the family production company, London Films, was in the midst of one of its most ambitious projects, the Arabian fantasy movie "The Thief of Bagdad."

"Alone" describes in detail the tense political drama that surrounded the emergence of Winston Churchill as prime minister just hours before Germany invaded France and the Low Countries. Alex was a longtime friend and supporter of Churchill, who gave his blessing to the producer's decision to move his operation to Hollywood after wartime manpower demands made it impossible to finish his films in England.

The trans-Atlantic move had the British government's clandestine blessing and financial support in hopes that Alex's subsequent film "That Hamilton Woman," about Admiral Horatio Nelson and his mistress, would build pro-British sentiment in the United States.

Family issues highlight some of the more fascinating dynamics in "Alone," but the book is first and foremost a riveting account of the fate of the 300,000-man British Expeditionary Force during its retreat toward the English Channel as German tanks overran Belgium and set their sights on Paris in a blitzkrieg that left France demoralized and prey to a wave of defeatism and recriminations.

Illuminating profiles of key players include those of Vice Admiral Bertram Ramsay, architect of the evacuation plan dubbed Operation Dynamo; German tank warfare strategist Heinz Guderian; and a string of hapless French generals. On the political side, we meet the British appeasers whose lapses in judgment paved the way for Churchill - described by Korda as "that rarest of men, a well-functioning, even hyper-functioning alcoholic" - to rally his people to ultimate victory.

Perhaps the biggest question that Korda and other historians have struggled to address is why the Germans temporarily halted their race to the channel, a decision that allowed Britain to assemble a fleet that ranged from Royal Navy destroyers and commercial ferries to fishing boats and yachts, enabling its troops to survive and fight another day.

Some suggest that Hitler chose to spare the British army as a sign of his good intentions and encourage a peace settlement. For his part, Korda believes the three-day rest break was designed to prepare the panzer divisions for the decisive encounter with the French army while delaying an advance in the marshy terrain of Flanders.

"Alone" reaches its climax in the days depicted in Nolan's film. The author's descriptions of fire and smoke along with smells of burning rubber and unburied bodies evoke images as vivid as any to hit the screen. One writer quoted by Korda likens it to "a scene from Dante's Inferno."

Korda likens the evacuation to a big lottery. "Some people went to the beach, fell into the right line, were taken aboard a ship with a minimum of drama, and disembarked a few hours later at Dover." Others were shelled while on the beach, machine-gunned by German aircraft or drowned when their ship was mined, bombed or torpedoed.

A total of 338,226 troops, including 139,921 French, made it to England, but it was only months later - after the Battle of Britain - that fears of invasion dissipated and the "spirit of Dunkirk" became cause for celebration. It was, according to Korda, "that rarest of historical events, a military defeat with a happy ending."

It is rare and fortuitous that this spellbinding account came out within weeks of the release of Nolan's film that struck box-office gold. One can only hope that many of those drawn to the movie will go on to read "Alone" to delve further into the details and context of that historic episode.
CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) - Windy Dees told her sport administration students at the University of Miami that they likely wouldn't see each other for a few days after Hurricane Irma hit.

Their separation has lasted two weeks, and counting.

"Saying it'd be a few days," Dees said. "That's funny now."

Maria Stotts, and Heather Mueller, volunteers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, clear debris from a Monroe County sheriff's deputy's home damaged by a six-foot storm surge, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Big Pine Key, Fla. Residents were allowed to return to their homes in the Keys today a week after Hurricane Irma struck the Florida Keys (Al Diaz/Miami Herald via AP)

Slowly, Florida school vacations caused by Irma are ending. Public schools in Miami-Dade County and Broward County - the state's two biggest school districts and two of the nation's largest - reopened Monday for more than 600,000 students after a nearly two-week hiatus. Elementary, middle and high schools in the storm-ravaged Florida Keys expected to resume next week

"We will all face significant challenges upon our return," Monroe County Superintendent Mark Porter said. "Some will be more significant than others."

Officials in Collier County, which includes hard-hit Naples, say staff and school buildings are still struggling with power outages, sewage backups and repairs.

Colleges also are continuing to recover. Miami is starting some graduate classes this week, will resume undergraduate classes next week and has already called off its fall break to help make up for lost class time. Florida International in Miami is adding a week to its semester.

In Fort Myers, officials at Florida Gulf Coast University were planning to postpone December's commencement because of storm issues, but a solution was struck to have smaller college-by-college ceremonies, which allowed FGCU to keep its planned Dec. 16 date.

"We've got a solution that ought to be acceptable to the vast majority," FGCU President Mike Martin said.

Barry University was also dealing with Hurricane Maria on Monday, even though that system is nowhere near the U.S. The school sent a charter jet to St. Croix and evacuated at least 72 students, faculty, staff and family members from the university's physician assistant program there. The group was to arrive in the Miami area later Monday night and many were expected to remain there until Maria passes.

Some schools face fewer headaches than others. At University of Central Florida, with the state's largest enrollment at 66,000, classes resumed Monday after more than a week off. The school has largely kept to its schedule for the semester and is making allowances for students who were called up to National Guard duty in response to the storm.

"Our policy is to extend flexible accommodations to these students to help them meet their educational goals once they return," UCF Provost Dale Whittaker wrote in a letter to the campus community. He also encouraged faculty members to work with their deans and chairs to help other students who face extenuating circumstances.

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam announced a plan Monday to allow at least 48 county school districts - the vast majority of the state - to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students through a federal program that will run through Oct. 20. State officials say that could affect up to 2.5 million students at 3,000 schools, and those numbers may still rise.

"Students' return to school today is a step toward normalcy," Miami-Dade Superintendent Alberto Carvalho tweeted Monday.

Officials haven't decided yet whether the academic year will have to be changed in Miami-Dade; those discussions will start in the coming days. School bus routes in some South Florida districts were slightly affected Monday by ongoing storm cleanup. And some homes in the Miami area are still without power.

One school in Broward County had a message scrawled on the sidewalk in chalk Monday: "We met Irma. She was strong but we are stronger."

"Great message," Broward Superintendent Robert Runcie said.

Dees said there's a rhythm to a semester, and Irma striking so early in the fall term could essentially reset whatever learning momentum was going on at the start of the year. She looked forward to returning to campus.

"I miss work right now," said Dees, an associate professor at Miami. "I miss normality and having some structure. I've never dealt with anything like this. I've never been through anything that has knocked out almost a month of a semester. But I know we'll get through this."

FILE - In this Sept. 9, 2017 file photo, evacuees are moved to another building with more bathrooms while sheltering at Florida International University ahead of Hurricane Irma in Miami. Students in two of the nation's largest school districts still don't know when they'll return to class, forcing many Florida parents to juggle childcare as they head into a second week of recovering from Hurricane Irma. Miami-Dade and Broward counties had hoped to resume operations Monday, Sept. 18.. But dozens of schools in the two districts , which serve almost 700,000 students, are still without power. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
AL-MAGHTAS, Jordan (AP) - Italian star tenor Andrea Bocelli made a pilgrimage to the traditional site of Jesus' baptism Monday, praying for peace as he stood on the edge of the River Jordan.

Bocelli, 58, who is blind, was guided by a priest who scooped up river water and poured it over the singer's hands. The artist, a Roman Catholic, made a sign of the cross and the priest recited the Ave Maria (Hail Mary) prayer.

The spot represents the "roots of my faith," Bocelli told The Associated Press. "For this reason, it is a very special place. I am very happy to be here. I prayed for peace in the world."

Italian star tenor Andrea Bocelli, 58, a Catholic, makes the sign of the cross at the edge of the Jordan River, attended by a priest, at Al-Maghtas, Jordan. Bocelli prayed at the traditional site of Jesus' baptism and told The Associated Press that he "prayed for peace in the world." (Elena Boffetta/Jordan Tourism Board via AP)

Bocelli performed later Monday at a Roman amphitheater in Jordan's northern city of Jerash. He sang popular arias as well as pop music standards.

Bocelli wrapped up his performance with his hit "It's Time To Say Good-bye," wearing a red-and-white checkered scarf, a national symbol of Jordan, draped over his shoulders.

Jordan hopes headliners like Bocelli will help revive a tourism industry that has been flagging in recent years amid regional turmoil. The kingdom portrays itself as an oasis of stability.

Tourism Minister Lina Annab earlier told the AP that the baptism site is as important to Jordan tourism as the ancient city of Petra.

"It is very nice to see devout people, especially of the stature of a great artist like Andrea Bocelli, to be coming to this site, and I think it brings a very nice vibe to the place," she said.

Annab said the spot is "full of harmony, full of peace, full of spirituality." Having someone like Bocelli visit "only adds to the beauty of it," she said.
WASHINGTON (AP) - "Utter weakness and incompetence." ''Not a friend of democracy." ''Just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time."

As President Donald Trump visits the United Nations, a look at some of his past tough comments about the world body:

- "Why is the UN condemning @Israel and doing nothing about Syria? What a disgrace," he tweeted in October 2011, one of a series of tweets about the organization that year. Trump said that September he was "increasingly concerned" with what he called "the UN's ploy against @Israel this coming week."

President Donald Trump speaks during the "Reforming the United Nations: Management, Security, and Development" meeting during the United Nations General Assembly, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, in New York. From left, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Trump, UN Ambassador Nicky Haley, White House chief of staff John Kelly, and National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

"We must stand firm against the UN's ploy to sabotage Israel -- -if the UN grants the PA statehood then we must immediately defund it," he wrote.

- "The cheap 12 inch sq. marble tiles behind speaker at UN always bothered me. I will replace with beautiful large marble slabs if they ask me," he tweeted in October 2012.

- In a speech at the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington in March 2016, Trump took on what he described as "the utter weakness and incompetence of the United Nations."

"The United Nations is not a friend of democracy, it's not a friend to freedom, it's not a friend even to the United States of America; whereas you know it has its home and it surely is not a friend to Israel," he said.

-Angry at the Obama administration for not vetoing a U.N. resolution that criticized Israel for its settlement activity, the soon-to-be-president said in a Dec. 23, 2016 tweet that: "As to the U.N., things will be different after Jan. 20th."

-"The United Nations has such great potential but right now it is just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. So sad!" Trump tweeted on Dec. 26, 2016, shortly before his move to Washington.

- "The U.N. has such tremendous potential, not living up to its potential," he told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida in December 2016. "When do you see the United Nations solving problems? They don't. They cause problems. So, if it lives up to the potential, it's a great thing. And if it doesn't, it's a waste of time and money."

-"I have long felt the United Nations is an underperformer but has tremendous potential," Trump told ambassadors and their spouses who visited the White House for lunch in April. "I think that the United Nations has tremendous potential - tremendous potential - far greater than what I would say any other candidate in the last 30 years would have even thought to say. I don't think it's lived up - I know it hasn't lived up to the potential."

He added: "You just don't see the United Nations, like, solving conflicts. I think that's going to start happening now. I can see it. And the United Nations will get together and solve conflicts. It won't be two countries, it will be the United Nations mediating or arbitrating with those countries. So I see fantastic potential."
TORONTO (AP) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday his government could stop doing business with Boeing if the U.S. company doesn't drop a trade complaint against Canadian plane maker Bombardier.

Trudeau said Canada "won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and put our aerospace workers out of business."

Canada had been in talks to purchase 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from U.S. aerospace giant Boeing, but those have been on hold because of the Bombardier dispute. Trudeau's comments are Canada's strongest yet.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and British Prime Minister Theresa May walk in the Hall of Honour on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, during a visit on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press via AP)

Chicago-based Boeing's complaint claims Bombardier's new C Series passenger aircraft receives Canadian government subsidies that give it an advantage internationally.

The complaint prompted a U.S. Commerce Department anti-dumping investigation that could result in penalties for Bombardier. A preliminary decision is expected next week and a final decision could include financial penalties.

Boeing spokesman Scott Day took issue with Trudeau, saying Boeing is not suing Canada.

"This is a commercial dispute with Bombardier, which has sold its C Series airplane in the United States at absurdly low prices, in violation of U.S. and global trade laws. Bombardier has sold airplanes in the U.S. for millions of dollars less than it has sold them in Canada, and millions of dollars less than it costs Bombardier to build them," Day said in an emailed statement.

"This is a classic case of dumping, made possible by a major injection of public funds."

Trudeau spoke during a news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Bombardier is also a major employer in Northern Ireland, with over 4,000 workers in Belfast. May said she brought up the issue with U.S. President Donald Trump in a telephone call recently and said she'll reiterate Bombardier's importance to Northern Ireland when she meets with Trump this week.

Boeing petitioned the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate subsidies of Montreal-based Bombardier's C Series aircraft. Boeing says Bombardier has received more than US$3 billion in government subsidies that let it engage in "predatory pricing."

Brazil has also launched a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization over Canadian subsidies to Bombardier. Sao Paolo-based Embraer is a fierce rival of Bombardier's.

The Quebec government invested US$1 billion in exchange for a 49.5 percent stake in the C Series last year. Canada's federal government also recently provided a US$275 million loan to Bombardier, which struggled to win orders for its new medium-size plane.

Bombardier won a 75-plane order for the C Series from U.S.-based Delta Air Lines in 2016. Bombardier said its planes never competed with Boeing in the sale to Delta.

The Canadian government said late last year it would enter into discussions on buying 18 Super Hornet jet fighters from Boeing on an interim basis and hold an open competition to buy more planes over the next five years. Canada remains part of Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

Canadian Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan previously said Boeing's action against Bombardier is "unfounded" and not the behavior of a "trusted partner." He said buying the Super Hornet fighter jets "requires a trusted industry partner."
NEW YORK (AP) - The Trump administration will press its concerns about unexplained incidents harming American diplomats in Cuba during a meeting this week in Washington, as the United States considers shuttering its recently re-opened Embassy in Havana.

U.S. diplomats will host Cuban official Josefina Vidal, who has been the public face of Cuba's diplomatic opening with the U.S., and other Cuban officials, a State Department official told The Associated Press. Vidal has served as the chief of U.S. affairs for her country's foreign ministry and was recently named Cuba's ambassador to Canada, whose diplomats also were harmed by the mysterious incidents.

The United States plans to raise concerns and discuss the status of the ongoing investigation, which has yet to determine a cause of culprit for what the U.S. has variably called "incidents" or "health attacks." The Trump administration will be represented by John Creamer, the deputy assistant secretary of state responsible for Cuba, said the official, who wasn't authorized to comment by name and requested anonymity.

FILE - In this Jan. 12, 2017, file photo,Josefina Vidal speaks to reporters in Havana, Cuba. The Trump administration will press its concerns about unexplained incidents harming American diplomats in Cuba during a meeting in Washington, as the United States considers shuttering its recently re-opened Embassy in Havana. U.S. diplomats will host Cuban official Josefina Vidal, who has been the public face of Cuba's diplomatic opening with the U.S., and other Cuban officials, a State Department official said. (AP Photo/Desmond Boylan, File)

Though the conference is part of an ongoing series of "Bilateral Commission" meetings the two countries have held since restoring relations in 2015, it will take on heightened significance - and sensitivity - in light of the incidents.

Vidal, who helped negotiate the detente, has represented Cuba at the regularly scheduled meetings before. But the diplomatic opening appears to be in jeopardy given grave U.S. concerns about what has transpired in Havana since November 2016.

On Sunday, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson disclosed that the Trump administration is considering closing down the embassy, the strongest indication to date that the United States might mount a major diplomatic response. The two former foes reopened embassies in Washington and Havana in 2015 after a half-century of estrangement.

"We have it under evaluation," Tillerson said of a possible embassy closure. "It's a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered. We've brought some of those people home. It's under review."

Of the 21 medically confirmed U.S. individuals affected - diplomats and their families - some have permanent hearing loss or concussions, while others suffered nausea, headaches and ear-ringing. Some are struggling with concentration or common word recall, The Associated Press has reported .

Some victims felt vibrations or heard loud sounds mysteriously audible in only parts of rooms, leading investigators to consider a potential "sonic attack." Others heard nothing but later developed symptoms.

The State Department has emphasized that the U.S. still doesn't know what has occurred. Cuba has denied any involvement or responsibility but stressed that it's eager to help the U.S. resolve the matter.

The U.S. has said the tally of Americans affected could grow as more cases are potentially detected.

The last reported incident was on Aug. 21, according to a U.S. official briefed on the matter. The official wasn't authorized to discuss the matter publicly and requested anonymity.

A decision to shutter the embassy, even temporarily, would deal a demoralizing blow to the delicate detente that President Barack Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro announced in late 2014. The next year, embassies were reopened and restrictions on travel and commerce eased - signs of a warming relationship that displeased some hard-liners in Cuba's government. President Donald Trump has reversed some of the changes, but left many in place.

Tillerson spoke on CBS' "Face the Nation" as world leaders and top diplomats descended on New York for annual U.N. General Assembly meetings. President Donald Trump will give his first speech on the major global platform this week.

Cuba is also represented at the U.N., but it's not expected Trump will meet with any Cuban leaders or officials during his visit.

The U.S. hasn't identified either a culprit or a device. Investigators have explored the possibility of sonic waves, an electromagnetic weapon, or an advanced spying operation gone awry, U.S. officials briefed on the probe told the AP. The U.S. hasn't ruled out that a third country or a rogue faction of Cuba's security services might be involved.

In Washington, lawmakers in Congress have been raising alarm over the incidents, with some calling for the embassy to be closed. On Friday, five Republican senators wrote Tillerson urging him to not only shutter the embassy, but also kick all Cuban diplomats out of the United States - a move with dramatic diplomatic implications

"Cuba's neglect of its duty to protect our diplomats and their families cannot go unchallenged," said the lawmakers, who included Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who led the effort, and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, a prominent Cuban-American and critic of the U.S. detente.

The incidents have frightened Havana's tight-knit diplomatic community, raising concerns about the potential scope. At least one other country, France, has tested embassy staff for potential sonic-induced injuries, the AP has reported.

___

Reach Josh Lederman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joshledermanAP
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has endorsed his frequent rival and fellow Democrat Bill de Blasio for a second term as mayor of New York City.

Cuomo voiced his support for de Blasio on Monday during an interview on WNYC. He called de Blasio "the better person to serve" the city.

De Blasio faces Republican state Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis (mal-ee-oh-TAH'-kihs) of Staten Island in the November election.

Cuomo had declined to make an endorsement during the five-way Democratic primary. He and de Blasio have feuded repeatedly, with Cuomo's administration second-guessing the mayor and de Blasio complaining of Cuomo's retaliation against his political opponents.

On Monday, however, Cuomo said simply that as a Democrat he will support the Democratic primary victor.
A suspect has been charged in the 1992 killing of a teacher's aide after his friend turned over a handwritten note admitting to the rape and murder.

Gary E. Schara, 48, appeared in a Vernon, Connecticut courtroom Monday, where he is charged with murder, aggravated rape and kidnapping in the killing of 24-year-old Lisa Ziegert.

Ziegert, a teacher's aide at Agawam Middle School, was working her night job at a gift shop when she disappeared on April 15, 1992.

Her body was found four days later in a wooded area nearby. Forensics showed that she'd been raped before being stabbed to death.

Investigators on the case, many of whom have since retired, vowed never to stop searching for the killer.

Gary E. Schara, 48, appeared in a Vernon, Connecticut courtroom Monday, where he is charged with murder, aggravated rape and kidnapping in the killing of 24-year-old Lisa Ziegert

Springfield-Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced the charges

A break in the case came last year, when Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni released a phenotype composite sketch generated from DNA at the crime scene.

The phenotype sketch showed a dark-haired European man similar in appearance to Schara.

The DNA sample had been run against databases in the past, and investigators decided to take another look at prior persons of interest who did not appear in existing DNA databases.

Investigators stopped at Schara's home on Wednesday to notify him of a subpoena process to collect his DNA, but he was not home, and they left a message with a person in the house.

Gulluni said that on Thursday, a friend of the suspect's came forward and turned in what appeared to be handwritten documents by Schara admitting to the 1992 rape and murder.

The victim's mother Dee Ziegert said: 'We are so grateful for the hard work and determination and faith that all of these investigators had over all these years'

When police tried to speak to Schara, they learned that he had fled to Connecticut, and had been hospitalized there following a suicide attempt.

The DNA at the crime scene matched Schara's, prosecutors said.

It wasn't immediately clear if Schara had an attorney.

'We are so grateful and  'happy' is the wrong word, I can't use the word 'happy,' because in this situation, we're not happy  but we are so grateful for the hard work and determination and faith that all of these investigators had over all these years,' Dee Ziegert, the victim's mother, said Monday, NBC Connecticut reported.

'They never, ever gave up on Lisa, and that is what we're focused on.'
WASHINGTON (AP) - Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that four large national monuments in the West be reduced in size, potentially opening up hundreds of thousands of acres of land revered for natural beauty and historical significance to mining, logging and other development.

Zinke's recommendation, revealed in a leaked memo submitted to the White House, prompted an outcry from environmental groups who promised to take the Trump administration to court to block the moves.

The Interior secretary's plan would scale back two huge Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante - along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. The monuments encompass more than 3.6 million acres - an area larger than Connecticut - and were created by Democratic administrations under a century-old law that allows presidents to protect sites considered historic, geographically or culturally important.

FILE - This May 23, 2016, file photo, shows the northernmost boundary of the proposed Bears Ears region, along the Colorado River, in southeastern Utah. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou (Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, File)

Zinke's plan also would allow logging at a newly designated monument in Maine and urges more grazing, hunting and fishing at two sites in New Mexico. It also calls for a new assessment of border-safety risks at a monument in southern New Mexico.

Bears Ears, designated for federal protection by former President Barack Obama, totals 1.3 million acres in southeastern Utah on land that is sacred to Native Americans and home to tens of thousands of archaeological sites, including ancient cliff dwellings. Grand Staircase-Escalante, in southern Utah, includes nearly 1.9 million acres in a sweeping vista larger than the state of Delaware. Republicans have howled over the monument since its creation in 1996 by former President Bill Clinton.

Cascade-Siskiyou, which juts into Northern California, protects about 113,000 acres in an area where three mountain ranges converge, while Gold Butte protects nearly 300,000 acres of desert landscapes that feature rock art, sandstone towers and wildlife habitat for bighorn sheep and the threatened Mojave Desert tortoise.

The Associated Press obtained a copy of the 19-page memo, which was submitted to the White House last month and has not been officially released.

Two marine monuments in the Pacific Ocean also would be reduced under Zinke's memo, and a third monument off the Massachusetts coast would be modified to allow commercial fishing. Commercial fishing also would be allowed at two Pacific sites, west of Hawaii and near American Samoa.

President Donald Trump ordered a review of 27 sites earlier this year after complaining about a "massive land grab" by Obama and other former presidents.

"It's gotten worse and worse and worse, and now we're going to free it up, which is what should have happened in the first place. This should never have happened," Trump said in ordering the review in April.

National monument designations add protections for lands known for their natural beauty with the goal of preserving them for future generations. The restrictions aren't as stringent as for national parks, but include limits on mining, timber cutting and recreational activities such as riding off-road vehicles.

No president has tried to eliminate a monument, but boundaries have been trimmed or redrawn 18 times, according to the National Park Service.

Zinke's recommendations to pare down the four Western monuments - and allow more economic activity at three other sites - "represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands" by the Trump administration, said Jamie Williams, president of the Wilderness Society.

"This callous proposal will needlessly punish local, predominantly rural communities that depend on parks and public lands for outdoor recreation, sustainable jobs and economic growth," Williams said, vowing to challenge in court any actions by the Trump administration to reduce the size of national monuments.

It was not clear from the memo how much energy development would be allowed on the sites recommended for changes, but Zinke said in the report that "traditional uses of the land such as grazing, timber production, mining, fishing, hunting, recreation and other cultural uses are unnecessarily restricted."

Those restrictions especially harm rural communities in western states that have traditionally benefited from grazing, mining and logging, said Zinke, a former Montana congressman.

"Zinke claims to follow Teddy Roosevelt, but he's engineering the largest rollback of public land protection in American history," said Kieran Suckling, executive director of the Center for Biological Diversity, another environmental group.

A spokeswoman for Zinke referred questions to the White House, which said in a statement that it does not comment on leaked documents.

If Trump adopts the recommendations, it would quiet some of the worst fears of his opponents, who warned that vast public lands and marine areas could be lost to states or private interests.

But significant reductions in the size of the monuments, especially those created by Obama, would mark the latest in a string of actions where Trump has sought to erode his Democratic predecessor's legacy.

The recommendations cap an unprecedented four-month review based on Trump's claim that 1906 Antiquities Act has been misused by recent presidents to create oversized monuments that hinder energy development, grazing and other uses.

By sealing off more than 3 million acres in solidly Republican Utah, Obama and Clinton hurt local economies in rural areas that depend on logging and ranching, said Matt Anderson of the conservative Sutherland Institute.

"It begs the question: Are these expansions more about ulterior motives like climate change, presidential legacies, corporate interests like outdoor recreation companies, or are they about antiquities?" Anderson asked.

___

Associated Press writers Brady McCombs in Salt Lake City and Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, N.M., contributed to this story.

Follow Matthew Daly: http://twitter.com/MatthewDalyWDC

FILE - This May 30, 1997, file photo, shows the varied terrain of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Boulder, Utah. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, along with management changes to several other sites. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Donald Trump recommends that two Utah monuments - Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante - be reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac, File)
WARSAW, Poland (AP) - Poland's most powerful politician on Monday denounced anti-Semitism and praised the "great" state of Israel at a ceremony honoring Poles who protected Jews during the Holocaust.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, chief of the governing conservative Law and Justice party, spoke at an outdoor ceremony attended by Israeli, U.S. and British officials and organized by From the Depths, a foundation established by descendants of Jewish Holocaust survivors.

In rare remarks on international relations, Kaczynski said Israel owes its existence to the "power of spirit, power of the mind, determination and courage" of its people. He denounced anti-Semitism as a "very dangerous" phenomenon that is expressed through hostility toward the country.

Zipi Kamon of Israel, center, with Polish Franciscan nuns from a congregation that saved Kamon and her mother from the Holocaust during a ceremony honoring Poles who saved Jews in Warsaw, Poland on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

"In its way, in a real way, Israel is a great state," Kaczynski said, calling the Mideast country an "outpost of our civilization."

While Warsaw and Tel Aviv have strong ties, Kaczynski has faced pressure from Jewish communities in Poland and Europe to speak out against what they see as a rise of anti-Semitism.

Monday's ceremony was held to recognize the heroism of Poles who saved Jews from the German Nazis. From the Depths presented the Zabinski Awards, named for former Warsaw zoo director Jan Zabinski and his wife, Antonina, who hid over 300 Jews at the zoo during World War II.

Daniel Kawczynski, a Polish-born member of the British Parliament, accepted an award that honored his great uncle. Jan Kawczynski was shot by the Germans in 1943 along with his wife, Helena, and their 10-year-old daughter Magdalena, for having sheltered Jews.

Catholic Nuns from a Franciscan order that sheltered over 700 Jewish children and adults in more than 40 orphanages in Poland also received an award. One of the people the nuns' order helped save, Zipi Kamon, accompanied them to the ceremony. Born in Poznan, in western Poland, Kamon now lives in Israel.

Most of Poland's pre-war population of some 3.5 million Jews perished in the Holocaust. Poland was the only country occupied by the Nazis where any form of aiding Jews was treated as a crime punishable by immediate execution.

Polish-born British conservative Member of Parliament, Daniel Kawczynski ,with his aunt Krystyna Kawczynska-Krysiak during a ceremony honouring Poles who saved Jews from the Holocaust, in Warsaw, Poland, on Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. They received a special award in memory of Kawczynski's great uncle, Jan Kawczynski, who was killed by the Nazi Germans with his 10-year-old daughter Magda and wife Helena for having sheltered Jews. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland's most powerful politician Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of the ruling party, speaks to denounce anti-Semitism and praise Israel at a ceremony honoring Poles who protected Jews during the Holocaust, in Warsaw, Poland, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland's most powerful politician Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of the ruling party, attends a ceremony organized by the Jewish "From the Depths" ceremony and honoring Poles who protected Jews during the Holocaust, in Warsaw, Poland, on Monday, Sept. 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland's most powerful politician Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of the ruling party, speaks to denounce anti-Semitism and praise Israel at a ceremony honoring Poles who protected Jews during the Holocaust, in Warsaw, Poland, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Prosecutors charged a father Monday with three counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of his children, saying a belt was used in two of the killings.

Prosecutors filed the charges against 32-year-old Robert William Hodges in the deaths of 11-year-old Kelvin Hodges, 9-year-old Julie Hodges and Lucas Hodges, nearly eight months.

Hodges pleaded not guilty during his first court appearance.

In this photo released Thursday Sept. 14, 2017, by the Yolo County, Calif., Jail is Robert Hodges. Three children were killed inside a California apartment and their father has been arrested in the deaths that followed a domestic violence altercation with his wife, authorities said Thursday. California Highway Patrol officers arrested Robert Hodges, 33, on Interstate 80 in Sacramento. (Yolo County Jail via AP)

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig said the two older children were killed with a belt but would not say how it was used or give other details, including a motive.

The charging documents don't say how the infant was killed.

Prosecutors also charged Hodges with the attempted murder of his wife, Mai Hodges, after she called police Wednesday to report she had been assaulted.

Arriving officers found the three children dead and Robert Hodges missing; he was arrested hours later.

Authorities said Monday that Hodges was ordered held without bail for an Oct. 2 court appearance.

Deputy public defender Ron Johnson, who represented Hodges in court, did not immediately return a telephone message seeking comment.

Hodges faces three special circumstance allegations that could bring the death penalty if he is convicted - two of lying in wait plus multiple murders.

"We have not yet determined if we intend to seek the death penalty," Reisig said at a news conference. The decision is months away after prosecutors weigh the circumstances of the case.

The prosecutor also said the facts of the crime would not be released to ensure that Hodges receives a fair trial.

Police have said Mai Hodges did not witness the slayings.

Relatives and neighbors have said there were no apparent problems or abuse in the marriage. Police said they had no history of calls to the family's apartment, and Robert Hodges had no significant criminal record.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - President Donald Trump is encouraging Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee to run for another term, according to two people familiar with a meeting between the two Republicans at the White House last week.

The Friday meeting was the first between Corker and Trump since they clashed over the president's comments about a violent white supremacist rally in Virginia last month.

The people familiar with the discussion declined to be identified because they were not authorized to discuss the conversation publicly. The White House declined comment on Monday.

Corker, the chairman of the influential Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has so far declined to say whether he will seek a third term.

One conservative activist announced last week that he will run for the GOP nomination in Tennessee, and at least two others are considering bids.

Corker had a $6.5 million balance in his campaign account at the end of the last reporting period, the most among GOP senators facing re-elections next year. Corker has since increased his cash on hand by $1 million, according to his office.

Corker had criticized the president after he blamed both white nationalists and anti-racist protesters for the violence at the Charlottesville rally, questioning whether Trump had shown the "stability" and "competence" to succeed in office.

Trump responded on Twitter: "Strange statement by Bob Corker considering that he is constantly asking me whether or not he should run again in '18." Trump added, "Tennessee not happy!"

Corker's detractors in Tennessee have been keen to highlight the discord between senator and the president, who remains highly popular in the state.

But Corker has downplayed any notion of a rift between himself and Trump, telling reporters last week that "for people to try to act as if there is daylight between us as a result is just not true."

Corker, 65, has surprised political observers in Tennessee by refusing to divulge whether he will run again. Although the former Chattanooga mayor pledged before his election in 2006 to only serve two terms in the Senate, he has been widely expected to run again because of his seniority on the foreign relations and banking committees.

The senator said last week that he will announce his decision about his political future "very soon."

Tennessee's primary election is scheduled for August 2018.
Police and hospital staff are searching for a missing mother after a newborn baby was found in an east London park.

The boy was found wrapped carefully in a white blanket at around 8.20am on Sunday in a park area near Balaam street in Plaistow.

He is being cared for in hospital and has been called Harry by medical staff.

(PA)

We are appealing for the mother of a newborn baby to come forward so that she can receive medical care and support https://t.co/UgveZCmeVJ  Newham MPS | North East BCU (@MPSNewham) September 17, 2017

Police and doctors now fear for the mothers health and urged her to come forward.

Appealing to the childs mother, Detective Chief Inspector Jim Foley said: We are growing increasingly concerned for your welfare and I would urge you to make contact with us or your local hospital or GP surgery.

It is really important that we know you are safe.

I would also ask that anyone who has information that could help us to reunite this baby with his mother to come forward.
Detectives have been granted more time to question two young men held in raids over the Parsons Green terror attack.

An 18-year-old man and a 21-year-old, identified by his employers as Yahyah Farroukh, were arrested on Saturday over Friday mornings bomb attack on a London Underground train.

Scotland Yard said on Monday night that magistrates had granted warrants allowing the 18-year-old to be held until Saturday September 23, and Farroukh until Thursday September 21.

The men, understood to be from Iraq and Syria respectively, are believed to have both been fostered by the same British couple.

The news came as fresh CCTV footage that appears to show the Parsons Green bomb suspect on his way to plant his homemade device, was discovered.

The video obtained by the Press Association shows a figure dressed in grey carrying a distinctive white Lidl carrier bag around 80 minutes before the explosion that injured 29 people.

Aladdin's

The footage was obtained from a camera outside Ecco La Vera pizzeria in Vicarage Road in Sunbury-on-Thames.

Both Farroukh and the 18-year-old man, understood to be the suspected bomber, are believed to have spent time in foster care with Penelope and Ronald Jones, aged 71 and 88 respectively, who previously received MBEs for services to children and families.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: They both remain in custody at a south London police station.

Searches are continuing at two addresses in Surrey and a commercial property in Hounslow in connection with this ongoing investigation.

House in Sunbury-on-Thames

Farroukh was arrested after he finished his shift at a fried chicken shop in Hounslow, west London.

Video obtained by The Sun appeared to show forensic officers gathering evidence as he was held against the shutters of the neighbouring pharmacy.

According to his Facebook profile, Farroukh is originally from Damascus and living in London, having studied English at West Thames College.

Suleman Sarwar, 43, who owns Aladdins Fried Chicken in Kingsley Road, Hounslow, with his brothers, said very normal Farroukh worked at the takeaway and was arrested outside the shop after his shift at around 11.30pm.

Suleman Sarwar

He said: It was at that point that the police all grabbed him.

Asked if police had been staking out the shop, Mr Sarwar said I suspect so, but said he was not aware of any operations.

The takeaway owner added he was sure Farroukh was Syrian because of his distinctive dialect.

Mr Sarwar said police had taken CCTV recordings from the shop on Sunday and carried out a search of the property.

Farroukhs home in Stanwell, Surrey, was searched by police on Sunday, after armed officers raided the Jones home in Sunbury-on-Thames on Saturday.

Penelope Jones

A local politician said he understood an 18-year-old Iraqi orphan was living with the couple, having moved to Britain at 15 after his parents died.

The younger suspect was detained on Saturday morning in the departure area of Dover ferry port, which is the busiest ferry hub in Europe and a gateway to the French coast.

Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council Ian Harvey, whose ward is Sunbury East, said he learned about the boys background from neighbours of Mr and Mrs Jones and information available publicly.

He told the Press Association: One thing I understand is that he was an Iraqi refugee who came here aged 15  his parents died in Iraq.

Of the other suspect, he added: I think it is widely known that this person who lives at (the Stanwell) property was a former foster child at the property which was raided yesterday.
Wales is marking the 20th anniversary of the historic vote to say Yes to devolution.

On September 18 1997, the country went to the polls and voted to establish the National Assembly for Wales.

The margin of those in favour over those against was just 6,721 votes (0.6%) - a narrower percentage margin than by which last years EU referendum was decided.

A picture of the front of the Senedd Building, National Assembly for Wales, in Cardiff Bay in 2007

Monday will be 20 years since #WalesSaidYes in the devolution referendum. Here are some examples of what has been achieved since then pic.twitter.com/ON7YXGiAJg  Welsh Government (@WelshGovernment) September 16, 2017

An earlier referendum under the previous Labour government in 1979 saw devolution for Wales overwhelmingly rejected by a four-to-one majority.

It was Tony Blair who, after sweeping to power in 1997, arranged for referendums on devolution to be held in both Scotland and Wales.

In Scotland, the ballot - held a week earlier - saw a much more decisive victory, with 74.3% in favour of a parliament.

Tomorrow will be 20 years since #WalesSaidYes in the devolution referendum. Here are some examples of what has been achieved since then pic.twitter.com/TfxBkF0pSp  Welsh Government (@WelshGovernment) September 17, 2017

In the 20 years that have passed, the Assembly has gained primary law-making powers through the Government of Wales Act 2006. In 2011 Wales voted again to unlock further powers from Westminster.

Wales Acts in 2014 and 2017 have seen the Assemblys responsibilities widen further to include tax-raising powers for the first time in almost 800 years and responsibility for creating laws in more than 20 areas of public life.

Landmark laws passed by the Assembly include adopting a system of presumed consent for organ donation and minimum staffing levels on hospital wards, while a petition calling for a ban on single-use carrier bags led to a 5p charge which has greatly reduced their use and been adopted across the UK.

Tomorrow it will be 20 years since #WalesSaidYes in the devolution referendum. Here are some examples of what has been achieved since then pic.twitter.com/GKYxbQ5fQD  Welsh Government (@WelshGovernment) September 17, 2017

Wales was also the first UK nation to vote in favour of restricting smoking in enclosed public places and now all new homes built are required to be fitted with a sprinkler system.

In 2013 the Assembly passed a law that cemented both English and Welsh as the Assemblys official languages, placing a statutory duty on itself to provide services to Members and the public in the official language of their choice.

Further developments in Wales have been the signing of two City Deals and the scrapping of the Severn Bridge tolls.

Monday will be 20 years since #WalesSaidYes in the devolution referendum. Here are some examples of what has been achieved since then pic.twitter.com/TV7R5zk8AZ  Welsh Government (@WelshGovernment) September 16, 2017

Elin Jones AM, the Llywydd of the Assembly, said: Support for devolution and the National Assembly has grown significantly in Wales.

In 1997 the vote in favour was very close, but a BBC Wales St Davids Day poll in 2017 had 73% of people either saying the Assemblys powers should be increased or were sufficient.

Our priority for the future is to ensure that we have a parliament that is well-equipped to represent the interests of Wales and its people, make laws for Wales and hold the Welsh government to account; a parliament that is an equal of its counterparts across the UK.

Monday will be 20 years since #WalesSaidYes in the devolution referendum. Here are some examples of what has been achieved since then pic.twitter.com/hacnoOrkwj  Welsh Government (@WelshGovernment) September 16, 2017

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns added: Devolution in Wales has come a long way over the 20 years since the referendum.

The Senedd is now an established part of our constitutional landscape  taking critical decisions on matters that affect everyday lives.

We are now in another period of change for Welsh devolution  the devolution of powers that are repatriated when we leave the EU.
A defiant Boris Johnson has insisted there can be no extended transition period after Britain leaves the EU as Theresa May sought to stamp her authority on her Cabinet over the Brexit negotiations.

The Prime Minister said the talks were being driven from the front after the Foreign Secretarys dramatic weekend intervention setting out his vision for life outside the EU in a 4,000-word newspaper article.

Attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mr Johnson denied accusations by furious colleagues that he was trying to act as a back-seat driver in the talks with Brussels before a keynote speech by Mrs May in Florence on Friday.

Looking forward to PM's Florence speech. All behind Theresa for a glorious Brexit: https://t.co/5pe1pY2m13  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) September 16, 2017

However, in an interview with BBC News, he again reiterated his demands the UK should not have to make extortionate payments to Brussels for continued access to EU markets and that any transitional arrangements should be strictly time-limited.

Mr Johnson also side-stepped a question on whether he would resign if he did not get his way, saying: You are barking slightly up the wrong tree here.

The two now face an awkward reunion in New York on Tuesday, when the Prime Minister flies in to join the United Nations following talks in Ottawa with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau.

Speculation has been mounting she will use her Florence speech to offer to pay tens of billions of pounds to the EU during a two to three-year transition deal after the UKs formal exit in 2019 to break the deadlock in negotiations.

Speaking to reporters on board her flight to Canada, the Prime Minister said the Cabinet was fully united behind her approach to the Brexit talks.

This government is driven from the front and we are all going to the same destination, because we are all agreed on the basis of the Lancaster House speech, she said.

We are all agreed as a government about the importance of ensuring the right deal for Britain, the right withdrawal agreement, but also the right deal on a special partnership between the EU and UK for the future.

What the UK paid to the EU in 2014

She also notably failed to offer support to Mr Johnson with the chairman of the UK Statistics Authority after he revived the controversial claim that Brexit would release 350 million a week which could be spent on the NHS.

For his part, the Foreign Secretary said he accepted that Mrs May was in charge of the negotiations while playing down suggestions that he was at odds with key Cabinet colleagues such as Chancellor Philip Hammond and Brexit Secretary David Davis.

He said that his article in The Daily Telegraph had been intended as an opening drum roll to Mrs Mays Florence speech.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson attends a meeting during the United Nations General Assembly. (Seth Wenig/AP)

There is one driver in this car. Its Theresa. What I am trying to do is sketch out what I think is the incredible exciting landscape of the destination ahead, he said.

Lets not try and find rows when there really arent rows. I think it is a good thing to have a bit of an opening drum roll about what this country can do.

He made clear, however, that he stood by his arguments over the transition period.

It is pretty important that it shouldnt be too long, he said.
After the UK Statistics Authority rebuked Boris Johnson for reviving a claim that up to 350 million a week extra would be available for the NHS after Brexit, we look at how much the UK gives to the EU:

The UK made a net contribution to the European Union of roughly 156 million a week in 2016/17.

Treasury figures released in the summer suggested the total amount for the 12 months to March 2017 was 8.1 billion, the lowest level for five years.

The UKs gross contribution to the EU budget in 2016/17, before the application of the rebate, totalled 16.9 billion or around 325 million a week.

But, as the UK Statistics Authority pointed out during the referendum campaign, the Treasury pays the UKs contributions to the EU after deducting the value of the rebate.

The rebate in 2016/17 was 4.8 billion. Subtracting this from the gross contribution gives a figure of 12.2 billion.

What the UK paid to the EU in 2014

A further subtraction of the EUs payments to the UK public sector gives the final figure of 8.1 billion, or about 156 million a week.

The precise amount of money the UK sends to the EU is difficult to calculate.

European Union payments that are made directly to the private sector, such as universities and research organisations, are not included in the Treasurys figures and therefore not reflected in the estimate of 156 million a week.

A briefing paper published by the House of Commons Library said that UK organisations receive around 1 billion, 1.5 billion a year directly from the European Commission.

This includes funding for research and innovation as part of the Horizon 2020 programme, and money for education, training, youth and sport through the Erasmus+ scheme.
The question of Scottish independence needs to be de-coupled from Brexit, the Scottish Secretary has said three years on from the referendum.

David Mundell said the two issues have been deliberately conflated in order to push a second independence vote.

During a trade trip to South America, the Scottish Secretary called on the UK and Scottish governments to move on from the issue that divided our country so badly and work closer together on Brexit.

.@davidmundelldct talking about banging the drum for Scottish businesses this week in #Paraguay and #Argentina @UKinParaguay @ukinargentina pic.twitter.com/Vq5esxFPVU  Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland (@ScotSecofState) September 16, 2017

He said: Behind the scenes, that work has been happening and I am pleased to report we are making progress. But frankly, up to now, private progress has been overshadowed by public rhetoric.

We have been accused by the Nationalist government in Edinburgh of a power grab, of using our exit from the EU as an opportunity to centralise power at Westminster. That is simply not the case. Our record demonstrates our commitment to devolution.

As a former MSP, I want to see the Scottish Parliament strengthened and that is what will happen as we leave the EU.

Im equally clear I want to see devolution delivered in a way that strengthens our United Kingdom  not undermines it. This, sadly, goes to the heart of the matter.

The fact is, until the recent election in June, the Brexit debate in Scotland was deliberately conflated with the question of Scottish independence.

Despite the passage of only three short years  and despite the decisive result  the Scottish National Party sought to use Brexit to reopen the issue that divided our country so badly.

Trafalgar Square

Their attempt was roundly rejected in the recent general election, so we now need the issues to be de-coupled for good.

Mr Mundell is in Paraguay as part of the first visit by the UK Government in more than 20 years. He is also travelling to Argentina as part of an international trade mission.

He said: Around half of the UKs exports to Paraguay come from Scotland  mainly in the form of Scotch whisky. I understand that this has been rising steadily over the years.

This is welcome, of course. But 20 years ago we were exporting three times as much Scotch whisky to Paraguay as we are now.

This is something I want to see turned around in the coming years and which I see as a real Scottish opportunity. 

Independence cupcakes

A spokesman for Holyrood Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: Mr Mundells obsession with independence and failure to understand the impact of the EU withdrawal bill is at odds with the growing consensus across Scotland that we must protect the powers of the Scottish Parliament from this legislation and that any UK-wide frameworks must be mutually agreed, not imposed by Westminster.

We wish David Mundell every success on this trip but the best thing that could come out of it would be for the Tories to wake up to the economic damage they are causing with their disastrous approach to Brexit.
Shares in BAE Systems were hovering near a two-month high after Qatars defence minister signed a letter of intent to buy 24 Typhoon aircraft from Britain.

The agreement was signed on Sunday during a visit to the Gulf state by Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon, who said it marked the UKs first major defence contract with Qatar.

He said: This is an important moment in our defence relationship and the basis for even closer defence co-operation between our two countries.

We also hope that this will help enhance security within the region across all Gulf allies and enhance Typhoon interoperability across the GCC.

The news boosted the share price of aerospace defence firm BAE Systems, which is set to manufacture the 24 jets out of its plant in Lancashire.

Shares in the FTSE 100-listed company rose 3.1% or 18.5p to a near-two month high of 614.5p.

BAE Systems share are near their highest level in two months (PA)

The firm said in a statement: BAE Systems welcomes a formal Statement of Intent between the governments of the UK and Qatar signed today in Doha on the potential purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft for the future military and training requirements of the Qatar Armed Forces.

Discussions are ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.

David Madden, a market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said that while the value of the sale was not disclosed, it was  likely to be in excess of 1 billion.

The resulting share price boost has helped BAE Systems recover from the knock it took in August, when it announced that it would take a restructuring charge for its intelligence division.

That announcement sent the stock to a six-month low, Mr Madden said.

However, interest in the firm has continued to build.

Last month, Goldman Sachs added the stock to its conviction buy list, sighting Saudi Arabian contracts as the reason behind the move, and now they are selling to Qatar too.
The publisher of Rolling Stone has hoisted a for sale sign over the 50-year-old magazine.

Founder Jann Wenner plans to sell his controlling stake in the music and pop culture publication, telling the New York Times that letting go was the smart thing to do.

Rolling Stone, which was founded in Mr Wenners loft in 1967, has been grappling with the pressures on the publishing industry, as advertising spend is diverted from print to online.

The 71-year-old, who runs Wenner Media with his 27-year-old son Gus Wenner, said the pair hoped to remain at Rolling Stone, but the decision would lie with the new owner.

(Ian West/PA)

It comes after Wenner Media recently sold magazines Us Weekly and Mens Journal, while also offloading a 49% stake in Rolling Stone to Singapore-based BandLab Technologies last year.

Theres a level of ambition that we cant achieve alone, Mr Wenner, president of the media group, told the New York Times.

So we are being proactive and want to get ahead of the curve.

Publishing is a completely different industry than what it was. The trends go in one direction, and we are very aware of that.

Artists such as Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift have all featured on the front cover of the US magazine.

It also became renowned for its political coverage in the 1970s through the gonzo journalism of Hunter S Thompson.

The authors most famous work  Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas  was originally published in the magazine.

However, the publication was left financially bruised when it had to retract a 2014 story focusing on an alleged gang rape at the University of Virginia.
A collision between a city bus and a tour bus in New York Citys Queens district has left three people dead and others severely injured.

The New York Police Department said one person died at the scene of the 6.15am (11.15am BST) crash on Monday. Two other people died later in hospital.

More than a dozen others have been injured.

(AP)

Heavy traffic & delays due to a serious collision @ Main & Northern. Many Queens buses are being detoured. Visit https://t.co/ouKuv0qHjE  NYPD 109th Precinct (@NYPD109Pct) September 18, 2017

The collision occurred at an intersection in the Flushing area.

One of the buses also hit a building, and firefighters had to extinguish a blaze there.

A photo tweeted by the NYPDs 109th Precinct shows the buses side-by-side facing opposite directions, with the city bus slightly tilted to one side.

A Fire Department photo on Twitter shows firefighters responding outside the building.
Boris Johnson has sought to step up pressure on Burmas civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi to end the violence against the countrys Muslim Rohingya minority.

The Foreign Secretary joined representatives of the United States, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Turkey, Australia, Canada, Sweden and Denmark to raise the issue with Burmas national security adviser on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

UK-led #Burma meeting on #UNGA margins delivered uncompromising messages to Burmese govt: stop killings, grant aid access, uphold rights. pic.twitter.com/DJTk0j5vK3  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) September 18, 2017

Ms Suu Kyi, a Nobel peace prize winner, has chosen to stay away from the gathering amid international anger over the Burmese militarys campaign against the Rohingyas, which has seen thousands flee from Rakine province to neighbouring Bangladesh.

Boris Johnson at UN headquarters

Mr Johnson said: While Burma has undoubtedly made encouraging progress towards democracy in the last few years, the situation in Rakhine, the terrible human rights abuses and violence are a stain on the countrys reputation.

As I have repeatedly said, no one wants to see a return to military rule, so it is vital that Aung San Suu Kyi and the civilian government make clear these abuses must stop.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable has called for wealth taxes, as he insisted his party is not just Ukip in reverse, caring only about Brexit.

Sir Vince used his first keynote address to the Lib Dem conference as leader to urge a crackdown on property speculators to ease housing problems.

The Lib Dem leader said he wanted to see the tax system shift to imposing levies on wealth accumulated through property and savings, rather than work.

He told delegates: We must end the stranglehold of oligarchs and speculators in our housing market.

I want to see fierce tax penalties on the acquisition of property for investment purposes, by overseas investors.

Despite insisting there is more to the Lib Dems than opposing Brexit, Sir Vince said EU withdrawal ranked alongside the Iraq War and the banking crisis as one of the three great disasters to hit Britain in recent years.

Sir Vince accused ministers of behaving like dictators over Brexit as he called for political adults in Tory and Labour ranks to join forces with him and try to reverse withdrawal from the EU.

Coming soon.... our new Party Political Broadcast! pic.twitter.com/nBGws73B3s  Liberal Democrats Media (@LibDemPress) September 18, 2017

He challenged Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and other Brexiteers to defend any deal hammered out with Brussels in a new referendum.

The Lib Dem leader labelled Brexiteers masochists, saying: What are they afraid of? They now believe in the slogan of dictators everywhere: one person, one vote, once.

We believe the public have a right to change their mind.

At the end of these tortuous divorce negotiations, the British public must be given a vote on the outcome.

Sir Vince Cable at the Lib Dems' conference in Bournemouth

Sir Vince called for a cross-party effort against a hard Brexit.

He said: What the country now desperately needs is some political adults. There are sensible grown-ups in the Conservative Party, and the Labour Party and the Greens.

Sir Vince said that the sharp drop in the pound since the referendum is a taste of things to come.

The Lib Dem leader used the address to demand that Prime Minister Theresa May guarantees the rights of EU nationals in the UK

Sir Vince accused Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn of trying to face both ways on Brexit.

The Lib Dem leader compared Cabinet differences on Brexit with a public school pillow fight.

A disaster looms  Brexit. The product of a fraudulent and frivolous campaign led by two groups of silly public school boys reliving their dormitory pillow fights.

Taking a swipe at US President Donald Trump, Sir Vince said it was unforgivable the Government was entrusting Britains standing in the world to a special relationship with a president who is volatile, dangerous, and an apologist for religious and racial hatred.

Sir Vince also called for a clampdown on the blight of absentee second home owners in rural communities.

Acknowledging the Lib Dem U-turn on tuition fees that badly damaged the partys standing, Sir Vince said he wanted to create an endowment or learning account to help people access higher education at any time of life.
By Takaya Yamaguchi and Linda Sieg

TOKYO, Sept 17 (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is considering calling a snap election for as early as next month to take advantage of his improved approval ratings and disarray in the main opposition party, government and ruling party sources said on Sunday.

Abe's ratings have recovered to 50 percent in some polls, helped by public jitters over North Korea's missile and nuclear tests and chaos in the opposition Democratic Party, which has been struggling with single-digit support and defections.

Abe told executives of his Liberal Democratic Party and its junior coalition partner, the Komeito party, that he might dissolve parliament's lower house for a snap poll after the legislature convenes for an extra session from Sept. 28, the sources said.

Top LDP and Komeito officials will meet on Monday to discuss preparations, they added.

"Until now, it appeared the election would be next autumn, but ... we must always be ready for battle," domestic media quoted Komeito party chief Natsuo Yamaguchi as telling reporters on Saturday during a visit to Russia.

One option is to hold a snap election on Oct. 22, when three by-elections are scheduled, the sources said. Other possibilities are later in October or after an expected visit by U.S. President Donald Trump in early November.

Abe will probably make a decision after returning from a Sept. 18-22 trip to the United States, the sources said.

Abe's ratings had sunk below 30 percent in some surveys in July, battered by suspected cronyism scandals and a perception that he had grown arrogant after more than four years in office.

His popularity rebounded somewhat after a cabinet reshuffle in early August and has since been helped by worries over a volatile North Korea, which on Friday fired a ballistic missile over Japan, its second such move in less than a month.

"If we have a snap election now, we need to explain it to the public, including how we will cope with the threat from North Korea," Koichi Hagiuda, a senior LDP executive, told NHK.

Given that there is no need for a general election until late 2018, a snap poll could prompt criticism of Abe for creating a political vacuum at a time of rising tensions over regional security.

However, an early vote would not only take advantage of Democratic Party disarray but could also dilute a challenge from an embryonic party that allies of popular Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, an ex-LDP lawmaker, are trying to form.

Abe's coalition would be likely to lose its two-thirds "super majority" in the lower house but keep a simple majority, political sources have said.

Loss of the two-thirds grip could dim prospects of Abe achieving his goal of revising Japan's pacifist constitution to clarify the military's role, though members of a new conservative party linked to Koike might back the change.

Any constitutional amendment requires approval by two thirds of both chambers and a majority in a public referendum.

That risk could make Abe hesitate.

"I am sceptical about the consensus that Abe will call a snap election because doing so poses a risk, albeit small, to his agenda of constitutional revision," said Jeffrey Kingston, director of Asian studies at Temple University Japan. (Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore and David Goodman)
By John Irish and Parisa Hafezi

UNITED NATIONS, Sept 18 (Reuters) - The 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers faces a stern test at the United Nations this week as Europeans try to persuade a skeptical Trump administration to keep it, while Israel lobbies to turn up the pressure on its regional rival.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who must make a decision by mid-October that could undermine the agreement, repeated on Thursday his long-held view that Iran was violating "the spirit" of the deal under which Tehran got sanctions relief in return for curbing its nuclear program.

The Republican president has called the agreement, struck under his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, "the worst deal ever negotiated."

The prospect of Washington reneging on the agreement has worried some of the key U.S. allies that helped negotiate it, especially as the world grapples with another nuclear crisis, North Koreas nuclear and ballistic missile development.

"We all share U.S. concerns about Iran's destabilizing role in the region, but by mixing everything up, we risk losing everything," said a senior European diplomat, who was part of the 18-month negotiation process that led to the accord.

Trump must decide in October whether to certify that Iran is complying with the agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). If he does not, Congress has 60 days to decide whether to reimpose sanctions waived under the deal.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned on Sunday that Tehran would react strongly to any "wrong move" by Washington on the nuclear deal.

At the U.N. General Assembly on Monday, Trump meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu followed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who like Trump, is making his inaugural appearance at the annual gathering of world leaders.

Both have very different messages to deliver.

"Our position is straightforward. This is a bad deal. Either fix it - or cancel it. This is Israels position," Netanyahu said in Argentina last Tuesday as he toured Latin America.

Israeli officials said he would also relay concerns over what Israel describes as Tehran's growing military entrenchment in Syria and its post-civil war role in that country.

They said changes that Israel was seeking in JCPOA included lengthening the 10-year freeze on Iran's nuclear development program or even making that suspension permanent and destroying centrifuges rather than temporarily halting their operation.

FRANCE SEES NO ALTERNATIVE

The deal was brokered by the United States, Russia, China, Britain, Germany and France. The six will meet with Iran at the ministerial level on Wednesday.

Paris took one of the hardest lines against Tehran in the negotiations, but has been quick to restore trade ties and Macron has said repeatedly there is no alternative to the deal.

French officials say Iran is respecting the JCPOA and that were the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which ensures its implementation, to say otherwise, a mechanism exists to reimpose sanctions.

Macron, who won praise from Trump while hosting him in July at France's Bastille Day celebrations, will warn him that weakening or scrapping the deal would not only add fuel to a regional powder keg but deter North Korea from negotiating on its nuclear program, French diplomats said.

It would also signal the beginning of the end of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, which entered into force in 1970 and is aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, they said.

"We can always find legal arrangements to make it look like the deal is still in place, but if the U.S. no longer supports it politically, then the reality is that it will be in serious jeopardy and its implementation will be very difficult," said a senior French diplomat.

DIVIDING WORLD POWERS

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson argued on Sept. 15 that Washington must consider the full threat it says Iran poses to the Middle East when formulating its new policy toward Tehran.

The French diplomat underlined that the nuclear deal was achieved in large part because it was not linked to all the other grievances the United States may have had with Iran.

Macron will meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani immediately after Trump to tell him that Tehran must play its role in not stoking American anger through its activities in Syria, Lebanon and Yemen, a French presidential source said.

With Europeans not on the same page as the Trump administration, Iranian officials say they have an opportunity to divide the P5+1 grouping that negotiated the deal with Iran.

A senior Iranian diplomat and a former nuclear negotiator said he believed the European members of the group had no intention in following Trump's overtly aggressive Iran policy.

"They are wise. Look at the region. Crisis everywhere. From Iraq to Lebanon. Iran is a reliable regional partner for Europe, not only a trade partner but a political one as well," he said.

"European powers have been committed to the deal. The IAEA has repeatedly confirmed Irans commitment to the deal. Trumps insistence on his hostile policy towards Iran will further deepen the gap among the P5+1 countries," the diplomat said. (Additional reporting by Jeffrey Heller in Jerusalem; Editing by Peter Cooney)
By Clyde Russell

LAUNCESTON, Australia, Sept 18 (Reuters) - It is increasingly popular to write obituaries for coal, with analysts, market watchers, investors and utility bosses leaping on the bandwagon, declaiming that the days of the polluting fuel are numbered.

Certainly the long-term outlook for coal is becoming less certain as more countries commit to ending, or severely curtailing, use of the fuel.

But while the doomsayers may eventually be proven correct, coal is enjoying a stellar year, particularly in Asia, the main demand centre.

The price of benchmark prices for thermal coal at Australia's Newcastle Port slipped toward the end of last week, but still ended above $100 a tonne on Sept. 15.

The contract rose 45 percent from the closing low of $71.30 a tonne on May 16 to a peak of $103.50 on Sept. 12, providing a bonanza for miners in Australia and Indonesia, the two largest exporters of thermal coal used in power stations.

Metallurgical coal, used to make steel, hasn't had quite as good a year as thermal, but is still holding above $200 a tonne.

Singapore Exchange contracts, priced against the Steel Index assessment of Australian cargoes, ended at $207 a tonne on Sept. 15, down from a cyclone-induced peak of $285 in early April, but largely steady from the $226.50 a tonne they fetched at the start of this year.

While coking coal has been affected by weather-related disruptions in Australia, the price of thermal coal has mostly been driven by Chinese import demand.

Chinese seaborne imports of both types of coal were 157 million tonnes in the first eight months of 2017, according to vessel-tracking and port data compiled by Thomson Reuters Supply Chain and Commodity Forecasts.

This was up 12.4 percent on the same period in 2016, with China importing an additional 17.3 million tonnes from the seaborne market.

That sounds significant, and it certainly provides some fundamental justification for the strong rally in thermal coal prices this year.

However, while China is the world's largest coal importer, it is by no means the only major player in Asia.

India, which ranks second, has seen a sharp drop in seaborne coal imports this year, down to 117.9 million tonnes in the January-August period, a drop of 19.4 million tonnes from the same period in 2016.

Also down is fifth-ranked Taiwan, with seaborne imports at 42.6 million in the first eight months of 2017, a decline of 1.2 million from the same period a year ago.

Asia's other two major importers, though, Japan and South Korea, have increased their overseas purchases.

Japan is vying with India for second place this year, importing 118.7 million tonnes from the seaborne market in the first eight months, up 2.8 million tonnes, while South Korea has imported 85.7 million, up 3.6 million.

Put together, Asia's top five importers are up 3.1 million tonnes for coal shipments in the first eight months of the year compared to the same period of 2016.

In percentage terms, this is a gain of only 0.6 percent, which is hardly enough to justify a 45 percent rally in prices over the past four months.

SUPPLY DISRUPTIONS THE DRIVER?

There have been some supply issues from Australia and Indonesia related to weather events, with exports dropping in the first eight months of the year in both producers.

Australia exported 249.9 million tonnes of coal in the January-August period, down 10.2 million tonnes, while Indonesia's exports slipped 11.9 million to 218 million.

This drop of a combined 22.1 million tonnes from the world's top exporters may have more to do with the increase in prices than the strength of Chinese demand, even though the prevailing market narrative gives China a starring role in coal's rally.

Certainly, higher prices have been needed to make exports to Asia from non-traditional suppliers viable.

The United States exported 50.3 million tonnes of coal in the first eight months of 2017, up from 43.6 million for the same period last year.

Of this, 19.7 million tonnes were shipped to Asia, up from 14.3 million for the first eight months of 2016.

This means that of the additional 6.7 million tonnes the United States exported in the January-August period, 5.4 million, or 80 percent, went to Asia.

Overall, it appears that while the additional demand from Asia has been positive for prices, the drop in supply seems more relevant.

This is especially the case with Australia, since its higher-quality coal has seen most of the increase in demand from China, Japan and South Korea.

India's decline in imports will have a greater impact on Indonesia, which supplies cheaper, lower-grade fuel.

An example of this is the price of Eco Coal, a grade of lower-quality Indonesian coal with an energy value of 4,200 kilocalories per kilogram.

The monthly assessment by the Indonesian government <COAL-ECO-ID> stood at $45.35 a tonne as of Aug. 31, down from $53.46 at the end of last year, but up from the low of $41.46 for June.

This shows that the rally in coal prices isn't universal in Asia, rather it's mainly a reflection of higher demand for Australian coal, and other grades of similar quality.

The key question for the coal market is whether the sharp jump in Australian benchmark prices is justified by the lower exports and stronger demand in top Asian buyers?

Certainly, with prices above $100 a tonne for seaborne thermal coal, a supply response becomes inevitable, it's just a matter of time.

(Editing by Tom Hogue)
MADRID, Sept 18 (Reuters) - The Villar Mir family, which holds a 51 percent stake in Spanish builder OHL, is in advanced talks to sell the company to China State Construction Engineering, online newspaper El Confidencial said on Monday.

The potential deal comes as creditors increase pressure on the family over mounting debts, the report said, citing unidentified sources close to the talks.

Credit Agricole, Santander, HSBC and Deutsche Bank have warned Grupo Villar Mir that the company has short-term debt obligations worth some 500 million euros ($597 million), it said.

OHL, Grupo Villar Mir and China State Construction Engineering were not immediately available for comment.

($1 = 0.8372 euros) (Reporting by Tomas Cobos; Writing by Paul Day; Editing by Mark Potter)
The following are some of the stories in Russia's newspapers on Monday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

VEDOMOSTI

www.vedomosti.ru

- Russia's VTB bank could provide CEFC China Energy with a loan to pay for a stake in state-controlled Rosneft oil company which the Chinese conglomerate is buying from Glencore and Qatar Investment Authority, the daily writes.

- Russia's state industrial conglomerate Rostec has agreed with India's Mylan Laboratories on partnership in producing components for anti-HIV medicines.

KOMMERSANT

www.kommersant.ru

- Russia-oriented foreign funds attracted to Russia's economy $84 million in the week ended on Sept. 13, a maximum level of investment since mid-March, the daily writes, concluding that interest in shares of Russian companies has grown stronger again on the global market.

- Dubai port operator DP World has requested Russia's anti- monopoly regulator, FAS, for a permission to acquire a stake in FESCO Group, Russia's container and logistics company operating in the Far East.

- Crimea's authorities have arranged deliveries of mobile gas turbine stations to the peninsula to prevent any possible power outages in the region.

IZVESTIA

www.izvestia.ru

- Yury Lonchakov, the head of Russia's Federal Cosmonauts' Training Centre, has dismissed allegations that he will be replaced with Oleg Ostapenko, a former head of Roscosmos state space agency.

- Russia could toughen punishment for those polluting the Arctic region, the daily writes, adding that prosecutors have already started checking all information concerning violations of Russia's nature protection laws.

ROSSIISKAYA GAZETA

- After 13 years, Iraqi Airways has resumed direct flights between Baghdad and Moscow. Passenger flows will consist mainly of relatives living in both countries, businessmen and transit passengers, the daily writes.

NEZAVISIMAYA GAZETA

www.ng.ru

- Russia's natural gas export monopoly Gazpom will spend 100 billion roubles ($1.74 billion) on the development of the gas network of ex-Soviet Kyrgyzstan by 2030, which will be ten times more it spends on household gasification in Russia, the daily writes.

- The accessibility of free medical services in Russia is shrinking alongside with government reforms of the healthcare system, the daily reports, adding that at the same time fewer people can afford private doctors. ($1 = 57.6311 roubles) (Reporting by Tatiana Ustinova; Editing by Dmitry Solovyov)
BERLIN, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Turkey summoned Germany's ambassador to its foreign ministry on Monday, Berlin said, amid a mounting row between the two NATO powers.

Der Spiegel magazine said Ankara wanted to raise a German parliamentary motion last year that declared the 1915 massacre of Armenians by Ottoman forces a genocide - a description that Turkey has long fiercely rejected.

There was no immediate comment from Turkish authorities on the summons or the broader dispute, which has been exacerbated by the German parliamentary vote and Berlin's criticism of Ankara's rights record.

Germany's foreign ministry said it was the 17th time its envoy Martin Erdmann had been summoned, underlining the divisions at a time when European powers are counting on Turkey to help contain migrant flows, and to confront Islamic State militants over its borders with Iraq and Syria.

Germany has criticised mass arrests carried out in Turkey since last year's failed coup against President Tayyip Erdogan and demanded the release of around a dozen German or Turkish-German citizens arrested in recent months.

Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is seeking re-election on Sunday, has called for Turkey's EU accession talks to be called off. Germany also says it is limiting arms sales to Turkey.

Turkey says Germany has ignored Ankara's requests for the extradition of suspects it believes are linked to the putsch and accused Berlin of using Nazi-like tactics by banning pro-Erdogan rallies on German soil.

Turkey, which says the killings of Christian Armenians during World War One do not amount to genocide, already recalled its ambassador to Germany after parliament passed the resolution last year. (Reporting by Emma Thomasson; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
Sept 18 (Reuters) - Energy traded Vitol SA increased oil-backed loans to state-controlled companies in Kazakhstan to a maximum of $5 billion, making it one of the biggest traders of oil produced from the country, the Financial Times newspaper reported on Monday.

Commodity traders such as Vitol, Glencore and Trafigura have been moving further into the business of providing cash-for-crude loans to oil producers such as Russia, Kazakhstan and Iraqi Kurdistan. (http://on.ft.com/2w2NXGR)

Lending money tied to physical oil exports also helps bank manage loans and has been a trend in energy trading since 2014 when oil prices fell from a peak of $115 per barrel. (Reporting by Sanjeeban Sarkar in Bengaluru; editing by Jason Neely)
A group of diverse but like-minded individuals, the members of ARC have come together in their common desire to fight hatred, bigotry, intolerance and violence because of the harm these antisocial behaviors cause to our society. In that effort, we will not use or sanction the use of illegal actions (such as violence or intimidation) in pursuit of our desired aims and if we learn of anyone who does use these unethical methods we will report those individuals to the authorities. Instead, we will use the guarantees found in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms that ensure freedom of legal speech and expression.
By Ruma Paul

DHAKA, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Bangladesh is to buy rice from Myanmar, putting aside worsening relations over the Rohingya refugee crisis as the government races to overcome a shortage of the country's staple food.

Normally the world's fourth biggest rice producer, Bangladesh has become a major importer this year after floods hit its crops, sending domestic rice prices to record highs.

The government has already secured deals to buy rice from Vietnam and Cambodia as domestic stocks diminished.

"We'll buy 100,000 tonnes of white rice from Myanmar at $442 a tonne," its food minister, Qamrul Islam, said on Monday.

"It will take some time to complete formalities. Then shipment will start," he told reporters.

Rice is a staple food for Bangladesh's 160 million people and high prices pose a problem for the government which faces a national election next year.

The deal with Myanmar is the first state-to-state rice deal between the two countries, and comes amid increasingly strained relations.

More than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing a military offensive in Myanmar have crossed into Bangladesh since Aug. 25. Bangladesh has said all refugees must go home and has also accused Myanmar of repeatedly violating its air space, warning that any more "provocative acts" could have "unwarranted consequences".

Bangladesh recently finalised a deal to import 250,000 tonnes of white rice at $453 a tonne from Cambodia, following a comparatively cheaper deal with Vietnam.

It is also engaged in a second round of discussions with Thailand for rice after its initial talks with Bangkok, and India, suffered a setback over high prices.

High demand from Bangladesh could further lift Asian rice prices, which hit multi-year highs in recent months after Bangladesh and other countries in South Asia saw their worst monsoon floods in years.

Bangladesh seeks to import 1.5 million tonnes of rice in the year to next June.

The government also started selling rice at a subsidised rate on Sunday and last month cut a duty on imports of the grain for the second time in two months.

However, prices of rice have not budged, a situation largely blamed on hoarding by middlemen.

National police chief A.K.M. Shahidul Hoque said on Monday that tough action would be taken against those found hoarding rice in order to later make windfall profits.

Bangladesh produces around 34 million tonnes of rice annually but uses almost all its production to feed its population, and often requires imports to cope with shortages caused by floods or droughts. (Reporting by Ruma Paul; Editing by Susan Fenton)
By Tuvan Gumrukcu and Maher Chmaytelli

ANKARA/BAGHDAD, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Turkish tanks carried out drills at the Iraqi border on Monday, the army said, a week before a referendum across that frontier on Kurdish independence that Ankara has called a threat to its national security.

The exercises came as Turkey, the central government in Baghdad and their shared neighbour Iran all stepped up protests and warnings about the looming plebiscite in semi-autonomous Kurdish northern Iraq.

Iran, which like Turkey fears fuelling separatism in its own Kurdish population, warned of unspecified consequences if the vote went ahead.

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said any threats from inside or outside its territory would face immediate retaliation. The military command released pictures of the tanks speeding along roads and kicking up dust during exercises.

Iraq's Supreme Federal Court ordered Kurdistan region to suspend the vote, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office said. Baghdad, its neighbours and Western powers fear the referendum could distract attention from the fight against Islamic State militants across the region.

But the Kurdish leadership showed no sign of bowing to pressure to call off the vote, including from the United Nations - which urged Erbil to resolve disputes with Baghdad over land and power sharing through dialogue.

TANKS, MISSILES

In Turkey, around 100 military vehicles, mostly tanks, took part in the drill near the Habur border gate, a crossing point into Iraq, the private news agency Dogan said. Vehicles carrying missiles and howitzers also participated.

Turkish military sources said the drill was due to run until Sept. 26, a day after the planned Kurdish referendum.

Turkey has not spelt out what response it might take if the referendum goes ahead. It has brought forward meetings of the cabinet and its national security council to Friday, three days ahead of the vote, to look again at the situation.

Separately, Turkey's military said it carried out an air strike in northern Iraq on Monday and that "four terrorists were neutralised". Turkish forces often launch cross-border attacks they say target members of the outlawed Kurdish PKK group, which has waged an insurgency in southern Turkey for three decades.

"Those who are chasing dreams in Syria and Iraq should know very well that any attempt that threatens our national security, from inside or outside our borders, will be immediately retaliated in kind," Prime Minister Yildirim said in a speech in the southern Turkish town of Sanliurfa.

Kurdish forces have, with U.S. backing, been in the forefront of the battle against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. The Kurdish involvement in Syria strains relations between Washington and Ankara.

The Iraqi Supreme Federal Court approved Prime Minister Abadi's demand to consider "the breakaway of any region or province from Iraq as unconstitutional", his office said in a statement.

The court is responsible for settling disputes between Iraq's central government and regions including Kurdistan, but has no means to implement its rulings in the Kurdish region which has its own police and government, led by Massoud Barzani.

Iran issued a veiled warning to the Kurds that their security could be affected if Iraq's unity was threatened.

"Any damage to this strategic principle would lead to the revision of and serious alteration in the existing cooperation between Iran and Iraqs Kurdistan region," said Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, according to state-run Press TV.

Turkey's protests in the build-up to the vote had been relatively muted. It has built good relations with Barzani's semi-autonomous Kurdish administration in northern Iraq, founded on strong economic links as well as Ankara and Erbil's shared suspicions of other Kurdish groups.

The Kurdish Regional Government, led by Barzani's KDP party, exports hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil per day to world markets via Turkey and said on Monday that Russian oil major Rosneft would invest in pipelines in the Kurdish region to export gas to Turkey and Europe. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara, Maher Chmaytelli in Erbil; Editing by Dominic Evans and Andrew Heavens)
BEIRUT, Sept 18 (Reuters) - The Deir al-Zor military airport in eastern Syria, which the Syrian army recaptured this month from Islamic State, began functioning again on Monday for the first time in nearly a year, Syrian state media and a monitoring group said.

The military base is seen as a valuable asset for the Syrian army as it presses its campaign against Islamic State in Deir al-Zor province.

Two planes landed and took off from the base on Monday, state TV reported - the first such activity there since September 2016, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said.

Monday's flights carried aid to Deir al-Zor, Syrian state media and the British-based Observatory said.

On Sunday, the United Nations said it had halted costly airdrops to the city as a land corridor opened.

The U.N. has estimated that some 93,000 people were living in "extremely difficult" conditions in government-held parts of Deir al-Zor during the Islamic State siege and were supplied by air drops to the base.

Syrian government forces and their allies broke Islamic State's three year siege of Deir al-Zor earlier this month, reaching the government-held enclave in the city and the adjacent air base.

The Syrian army and U.S.-backed militias are fighting separate offensives against Islamic State in the province, the jihadist group's last major stronghold in Syria. (Reporting by Sarah Dadouch; Editing by Richard Balmforth)
BEIRUT, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Lebanon's parliament speaker on Monday proposed holding a legislative election before the end of the year, bringing it forward from May 2018.

The proposal "supports the national interest ... (and is) in the spirit of the law where elections must be held as soon as possible," Nabih Berri said in a televised statement.

The current parliament's mandate would, under the proposal, end on Dec. 31 with the election to take place before that date, he said.

Lebanon's parliament has extended its own mandate three times since current lawmakers were elected in 2009 for what was meant to be a four-year term.

In June the cabinet approved a new law which extended parliament's term for 11 months for "technical reasons", tentatively setting elections for May 2018.

Sectarian divisions have long plagued politics in Lebanon, exacerbated by the Syrian conflict and complicated by rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which back different groups in the country. Lebanese activists accuse politicians of using regional upheaval as an excuse to dodge elections.

Political wrangling left the country without a president for 29 months before Michel Aoun was elected in October last year. (Reporting by John Davison; editing by Andrew Roche)
CAIRO, Sept 18 (Reuters) - An Egyptian court sentenced hundreds to jail for murder and illegally protesting on Monday after a mass trial criticised by rights groups.

But it acquitted an Irish student, a high-profile detainee who says he was tortured in custody.

Ibrahim Halawa was on trial with three of his sisters and nearly 500 others, all charged with, among other crimes, breaking into a mosque, killing 44 people, and illegal possession of firearms.

The incidents followed the military's ouster of former Islamist president Mohamed Mursi in 2013.

The defendants were all facing the death penalty but none received it. Instead the judge sentenced hundreds to jail terms including 43 people to life in prison, which in Egypt is 25 years, and five years of parole.

Another 17 people were sentenced to 15 years in prison, 67 to 10 years, and 216 to five years. Two minors were sentenced to 10 years in absentia and six to five years.

A dual Egyptian-U.S. citizen involved in the trial was also acquitted.

Egyptian rights activists say they have faced the worst crackdown in their history under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who was elected president in 2014 a year after as armed forces commander he led the military's toppling of Mursi.

Halawa was 17 when he was arrested with hundreds of others in 2013, as part of a crackdown on protests in Egypt. He has been held in pre-trial detention since then, and has said he has been regularly tortured.

"Today's verdict is long overdue. Ibrahim was arrested as a child for the 'crime' of attending a protest, tortured, and tried facing the death penalty alongside adults in an unfair mass trial," said Maya Foa, director of human rights group Reprieve, which is assisting Halawa.

"For years, these court proceedings - which were designed to punish political dissent - made a mockery of justice. The wider international community - including the EU, which helps to fund Egypts courts - must also call urgently on Egypt to end its use of patently illegal mass trials."

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar welcomed Halawa's acquittal and said the case had been an "extraordinarily protracted" one.

"Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity," he said in a statement. (Reporting by Haitham Ahmed and Ahmed Aboulenein; Additional reporting by Padraic Halpin in Dublin; Writing by Ahmed Aboulenein; Editing by Patrick Markey/Jeremy Gaunt)
By Polina Devitt

MOSCOW, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Russia will supply around 600,000 tonnes of wheat to Venezuela in the current marketing year ending next June, Russia's agriculture minister told Reuters, deepening the Kremlin's support for Venezuela's troubled economy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro agreed a grain supply deal in May, providing a lifeline to the South American country which has faced soaring bread prices in recent years and queuing at bakeries has become common.

Russia, which last season did not ship any wheat to Venezuela, had not previously confirmed how much wheat it planned to supply under the deal.

The supplies to Venezuela will be carried out as part of commercial contracts between Russian and Venezuelan state companies, Russian Agriculture Minister Alexander Tkachev said in an interview for the Reuters Russia Investment Summit.

Pilot batches have already been sent to Venezuela, he said in written answers to Reuters' questions. Tkachev did not provide further details.

Venezuela's unravelling socialist government is increasingly turning to ally Russia for the cash and credit it needs to survive, according to a Reuters report published last month.

Russian state-controlled grain trader United Grain Company previously said that it would supply 300,000 tonnes of grain to Venezuela in 2017/18.

Agriculture is not the only sector with which Moscow has been cooperating with Caracas. Venezuela borrowed from Russia in 2011 but failed to keep up with payments on the debt in 2016. Russia wants to find a solution on how Venezuela will fulfil its debt obligations to Moscow by the end of this year, a senior Russian official said in September.

BUMPER CROP

Russia is widely expected to harvest a record grain crop and become the world's largest wheat exporter in the 2017/18 season which started on July 1.

The bumper harvest has led to bottlenecks at some points in Russia's transport infrastructure, prompting a search for ways to diversify transport routes.

The agriculture ministry has recently proposed providing state subsidies for grain supplies by rail to Russia's Black Sea ports.

Tkachev said these subsidies will cost the budget about 3 billion roubles ($52 million) and will make exports of up to 1.7 million tonnes of grain attractive for suppliers from Siberia, Urals, Volga and Central regions of Russia.

"This will allow us to balance domestic prices and ease pressure in those regions which have a long transport leg," he added.

The ministry currently sees Russia's 2017/18 total grain exports at 44 million tonnes, up 4 million tonnes from the previous estimate, he added.

He said there were some bottlenecks in Russia but in general the infrastructure was coping with the current crop.

Russia is currently building two grain terminals near the border with China which will add 3 million tonnes and 8 million tonnes, respectively, to total grain export capacity towards 2020, he said.

Investors are also considering construction of a grain terminal in the Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga, according to the minister.

STATE STOCKS

The ministry has been considering exporting 500,000 tonnes of grain from its stockpile to free up storage space in case it needs to accommodate a part of the currently arriving crop, and to reduce budget spending on servicing the stock.

"We are waiting for a window when commercial suppliers make a pause and we're not jostling with each other," Tkachev said about the timing for the sale.

He added that the ministry was keeping its forecast for Russia's 2017 grain crop unchanged at 110 million tonnes, lower than unofficial analysts' estimates of around 133 million tonnes.

Asked about the reason for this difference, he said there was a risk that Russia's Volga, North-Western and Urals regions, which had delayed the harvest by 2-3 weeks, would not be able to harvest their grain before the cold weather sets in.

Farmers have already harvested 110 million tonnes of grain, before drying and cleaning, from 73 percent of the total area. ($1 = 57.6330 roubles)

Follow Reuters Summits on Twitter @Reuters_Summits (Reporting by Polina Devitt; Editing by Susan Fenton)
By David Brunnstrom and John Irish

NEW YORK, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Britain, France and Australia urged Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday to push for an end to military violence against Rohingya Muslims, while her national security adviser said those who had fled could return but the process had to be discussed.

The military response to insurgent attacks last month in the western region of Myanmar sent more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing to neighboring Bangladesh, escaping what the United Nations has branded as ethnic cleansing.

The government says about 400 people have been killed in the fighting.

"We will make sure that everybody who left their home can return to their home but this is a process we have to discuss," Myanmar national security adviser Thaung Tun told Reuters on Monday after a ministerial meeting on the crisis hosted by Britain on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

"We want to make sure that everybody who needs humanitarian assistance gets it, without discrimination. That is one of the things we agreed on," he said.

Nobel laureate Suu Kyi has faced a barrage of international criticism for not stopping the violence. She is due to speak to the nation on Tuesday about the crisis, which the United States has described as a "defining moment" for Myanmar.

"We expect from Mrs Aung Sang Suu Kyi tomorrow a strong statement in this direction," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves le Drian told reporters in New York.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson hosted a ministerial meeting to discuss ways to resolve the Rohingya crisis, which included ministers from Canada, Denmark, Turkey, Australia, Indonesia, Sweden, Bangladesh, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and a representative of the European Union.

"What we are trying to get everyone to agree is that, number one, the killings have got to stop, and the violence has got to stop. And we look not just to the military but also to Daw Suu to show a lead on that," Johnson told Reuters before the meeting.

In a statement afterwards, Johnson said that while Myanmar had "made encouraging progress towards democracy in the last few years, the situation in Rakhine, the terrible human rights abuses and violence are a stain on the countrys reputation."

"It is vital that Aung San Suu Kyi and the civilian government make clear these abuses must stop," he said.

Johnson said he was "encouraged by our discussion and by the participation of the senior Burmese representatives, but we now need to see action to stop the violence and open up immediate humanitarian access."

China, which, like the United States has worked to forge closer ties with Myanmar, a strategically important country in Southeast Asia, will not attend, a Chinese spokesman said, citing "a really packed calendar" for Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told Reuters ahead of the British meeting that a lasting political solution needed to be found for the Rohingya in Myanmar.

'ENORMOUS TRAGEDY'

About a million Rohingya lived in Rakhine State until the recent violence. Most face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop told Reuters she wanted to hear Suu Kyi offer a solution "to what is a tragedy of enormous proportions." She said that during the ministerial meeting in New York there "was unanimity in the view that the violence must end and that there be a ceasefire.

"And we emphasized the need for humanitarian support to get through and also that the Rohingya must be able to return home," Bishop said.

The United States urged the Myanmar government to end military operations in Rakhine state, grant humanitarian access, and commit to aiding the safe return of civilians to their homes, Haley said in a statement after the meeting.

"People are still at risk of being attacked or killed, humanitarian aid is not reaching the people who need it, and innocent civilians are still fleeing across the border to Bangladesh," Haley said.

Washington has also called for an end to the violence and a restoration of humanitarian aid, and a deputy assistant secretary of state, Patrick Murphy, is due in Myanmar this week.

"We urge the (Myanmar) government to act quickly to restore the rule of law, investigate alleged human rights abuses and violations, and to hold security forces and others responsible for abuses and violations fully accountable for their actions," a spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department said.

U.S.-Myanmar ties improved after the military began withdrawing from government in 2011, and paved the way for a 2015 election won by Suu Kyi's party. But the military retains a strong hand in government and remains responsible for security.

A Trump administration official told Reuters last week the violence made it harder to build warmer ties with Myanmar, and there would likely be some "easing" in the short term, but he did not expect a return to sanctions.

For years, the United States and Western allies imposed sanctions on Myanmar in support of Suu Kyi's campaign for democracy. Myanmar's response was to forge closer ties with China.

Human Rights Watch U.N. director Louis Charbonneau called for "strong U.N. action to compel Myanmar security services to end their ethnic cleansing campaign."

"With so many influential leaders gathered in New York, the next step should be work on a U.N. General Assembly resolution condemning the abuses and a Security Council resolution to impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the commanders leading this brutal campaign" he said.

However, Myanmar earlier this month said it was negotiating with China and Russia, both permanent veto wielding members of the Security Council, to block any bid to censure the country over the violence. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom and John Irish; Writing by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Grant McCool)
BEIRUT, Sept 18 (Reuters) - A booby-trapped motorbike exploded in the northeastern Syrian city of Qamishli on Monday, killing a child and wounding six other people, the monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported.

Syrian state TV said a motorbike had exploded and reported that four people were wounded but did not immediately mention deaths.

Qamishli is in an area mostly under the control of Kurdish security forces. Bomb blasts, often claimed by Islamic State, have occurred in Qamishli and nearby Hasaka city, both under Kurdish control, but have been rare in the last year.

Islamic State also reported the bombing via its online Amaq news agency, saying it had targeted a vehicle belonging to Kurdish security forces. It did not explicitly claim the attack.

Kurdish internal security force the Asayish, in a statement, blamed a Syrian government-allied paramilitary group for carrying out the attack.

The Kurdish YPG militia is spearheading a U.S.-backed offensive to drive Islamic State out of the jihadist group's remaining strongholds in eastern Syria, including its former de facto Syrian capital, Raqqa.

The YPG and Syrian government forces have mostly stayed out of each other's way in the six-year-old Syrian conflict. (Reporting by John Davison; Additional reporting by Ahmed Tolba in Cairo; Editing by Larry King and Richard Borsuk)
CARACAS, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Venezuela's opposition blamed President Nicolas Maduro's government on Monday for the death of a sick activist in jail, saying he was framed and then denied medical help.

Carlos Garcia, a local legislator in western Apure state, suffered a stroke in August after being arrested in late 2016 during protests and having money planted on him, his party said.

Two days before his death on Sunday, Garcia was granted house arrest but was never transported home, the Justice First party added in a statement, saying the accusations were invented and urgent medical help was denied prior to his stroke.

"He should never have been in prison and should never have died at the hands of a repressive government whose hands today more than ever are stained with blood," said party secretary general Tomas Guanipa.

Venezuela's opposition parties accuse Maduro, the 54-year-old successor of Hugo Chavez, of being a dictator and maintaining hundreds of political prisoners on trumped-up charges.

He denies that, saying all activists behind bars are there on legitimate charges, including for "terrorism" and coup-plotting against his socialist government.

There was no word from authorities on Garcia's death, and it was not clear if there had been formal charges against him. (Reporting by Diego Ore; Writing by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Seen here Chef Martin Yan of Yan Can Cook fame speaking to the gathering about his love for Ceylon tea as Director of Aitken Spence PLC and Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Managements (Pvt) Ltd Stasshani Jayawardena looks on.

Pic By Nisal Baduge

By Supun Dias

Aitken Spence Hotels marked 150 years of Ceylon tea since it was introduced by James Taylor to replace coffee and as of today it is among the top five export generators for Sri Lanka.



The event was held at the Aitken Spence Head Office down Vauxhall Street and concept for the event was very unique as it had been set up for the guests to experience a rail ride from Fort to NanuOya, arriving at a beautiful walkway through tea plantations leading to the entrance of Heritance

Tea Factory.



Signature brews specially made to be blended with curated tea infused concoctions and delightful sweet and savory nibbles with a twist to truly Sri Lankan flavours were created by Aitken Spence Hotels talented and award winning culinary.



It was also an opportunity for the Aitken Spence Group to appreciate and thank its valued stakeholders their constant support given over the years. Director of Aitken Spence PLC and Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Managements (Pvt) Ltd Stasshani Jayawardena said that marking 150 years of Ceylon tea is very important for a leading hospitality brand which always focuses on carrying the virtues of Sri Lankan culture.



While tea is part and parcel of Sri Lanka and its identity in the world, it has influenced our business as well. If you take our Heritance Tea Factory; a unique property that is converted from a 19th Century tea factory constructed in the days of a British Raj and we are very proud of having such a property as it gives us an impetus to share in this national celebration of its legendary journey in tea, Jayawardena said.



The event saw the participation of notable individuals from the industry, as well as reputed figures representing the public and private sector as well as foreign dignitaries.

Aitken Spence Hotels believes that celebrating and recognizing the Ceylon tea brand is essential to take forward the Sri Lankan culture blended with the unique Sri Lankan hospitality.
A few days ago the eastern Indian media took Prime Minister Narendra Modi to task for claiming that Sri Lankas national anthem was composed by Bengali Poet Rabindranath Tagore.



On my international visits, I feel proud to say that Tagore composed national anthems of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India, Prime Minister Modi was quoted as saying in a speech made in Delhi.



His speech was delivered at a ceremony to mark the 125th anniversary of Swami Vivekanandas Chicago address and the centenary celebrations of Deendayal Upadhyaya, a towering figure in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor of the BJP. Since both these leaders were Bengalis the PM it appeared had opted to mention the Bengali contribution to India and the world at large and thus must have thought of referring to Tagore.



Though Modis gaffe was spotlighted by a section of the Indian media, interestingly enough it failed to create even a ripple in Sri Lanka despite the Indian claim for something as symbolic as the national anthem.



The silence from Sri Lankan quarters could be ascribed to a few factors. Firstly the news did not reach a majority of Sri Lankans because of the fact that it was only reported by the eastern Indian press  mainly the Calcutta-based, The Telegraph. The Mumbai and Delhi press, did not bother to follow it up after it made news despite the fact that the speech was delivered in Delhi.As a result it hardly reached the mainstream media here.



Secondly a few who heard about the blooper would have considered it a bona fide mistake because the Indian Prime Minister was very unlikely to have made the statement had he known that it was factually wrong. Generally he is known for offering his due respect and gratitude to deserving Sri Lankan leaders. For instance the 150th birth anniversary of Tagores contemporary Anagarika Dharmapala was observed with much pomp and pageantry by Delhi for his efforts to revive Buddhism in India and the Modi government issued a stamp to honour the Sri Lankan Buddhist leader.

Interestingly it was a bearded Dharmapala who is seen seated right next to Swami Vivekananda in the photos taken at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 where both the leaders made a solid impression. While Swami Vivekananda represented Hinduism at the event, Srimath Dharmapala was a speaker for Theravada Buddhism.



Thirdly even most of those who may have heard of the Indian Premiers gaffe would have decided against making a fuss about it out of respect for Tagore, given his stupendous influence and contribution to the renaissance of Sinhala culture here. The Sinhala culture be it in dress, music or language has always been traced to Bengal ever since the mass wave of migration from the East Indian coast to the island that begun with the arrival of Prince Vijaya. Genetic studies by both Indian and Sri Lankan scientists have proven that nearly 58% to 60% genes of the Sinhalese are of Bengali origin.



It should be noted that though Ananda Samarakoon entered Tagores Visva Bharati University in 1936 he returned to Sri Lanka six months later instead of continuing his studies.



Mr. Samarakoon who was also a notable painter however had visited India on and off even after his return from Visva Bharati. It is said that the first few lines of the national anthem were penned on his return from such a trip, on board his first ever trip by air, inspired by the sight of his Motherland through the clouds. On his return Mr. Samarakoon had completed the song and taught it to students of Mahinda College in Galle where he served as the music teacher. This happened in 1940 and eight years before Sri Lankas independence. The song was not meant to be the national anthem so much so that by the time a competition was held to pick the national anthem, after independence, Mr. Samarakoon was reportedly not even in the country. It was his wife who had submitted the song to the selectors.



It would be worthwhile therefore that the record on Sri Lankas national anthem is put straight in the best interest of Indo-Sri Lankan relations.
Sleep experts say our devices are keeping us awake for longer, which affects our sleep and health. So why on earth do we do it?

What was the last thing you did before drifting off last night? You were probably on a device: reading emails, surfing the web or checking social media.

Youre not alone. A study by the National Sleep Foundation estimates 48% of American adults use gadgets such as tablets or laptops in bed and studies in other countries show this is even more prevalent among younger adults.

But snuggling up with electronic devices is ruining your sleep: keeping you up later and waking you more frequently during the night. More research has shown that night time use of technology can have a detrimental effect on ability to cope with stress, self-esteem and general mental health. Without sufficient sleep, youre less productive at work and long term health can suffer but few seem able to resist. So why do we do it?

Sending a text message, posting on Facebook or checking your email means you are waiting for a response, which revs up your emotional nervous system (Credit: Alamy)

Sleep, interrupted

Unlike reading and TV, modern gadgets are interactive rather than passive. Their connectivity to the outside world intrudes into the bedroom, a place that has historically been somewhere private to unwind and forget about a hectic day.

These devices are causing sleep procrastination, says Matthew Walker, a professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of California, Berkeley.

Experts say we need between 30 minutes and an hour of preparation before going to sleep to give our minds a chance to unwind from the stresses of the day. Things like reading a book, having a hot drink or doing a repetitive task like counting sheep all help.

When we pick up our phones, we are undoing that preparation our brains need by extending the day into the night-time hours

But, says Walker, when we pick up our phones, we are undoing that preparation our brains need by extending the day  together with all the stress and worry from it - into our night-time hours.

We might feel perfectly sleepy and could drop off easily if the power went out and our phones didnt work, he says. But when we pick up these devices it allows us to put off sleep. Often people will get into bed, someone will ping them on Facebook or send an email, and before they know it 20 to 30 minutes has gone.

Sending a text message, posting something on Facebook or checking your email means you are waiting for a response and revs up your emotional nervous system. Then once you put it down by your bedside, if you leave the phone on, there are all the pings, dings and other sounds that can wake you up during the night.

It appears there is a marked difference between staying up late with a good book or watching television in bed and using smartphones, tablets and laptops. The way we interact with electronic devices allows them to eat into far more of the time we should be asleep, according to researchers.

A review of 20 studies on childrens sleep patterns found that children with mobile devices in their rooms slept less deeply (Credit: Alamy)

For example, the blue light given off by many electronic screens can alter the release of a hormone called melatonin, which helps regulate sleep, and can throw the bodys internal biological clock out of sync.

Cant put it down

Ben Carter, a biostatistician at the Institute of Psychiatry at Kings College London, has spent the past few years studying the impact of technology on sleep and has uncovered strong associations between the use of portable electronic devices in the bedroom and poor sleep.

Carter says we have allowed ourselves to sleepwalk into a situation where we are in bed with our technology and it is controlling us, he says. There is no question that can have long-term impacts on the quality of our sleep.

So, given the harm this can do, whats going on? Carter likens the device behaviour to smoking.

If it is something you do last thing at night and first thing in the morning, then you are probably addicted, he says. According to Carter, being able to access information and engage with others around the clock is so pervasive to our knowledge-hungry, social brains that it can even affect those who should know better.

Much like smoking, chronic phone use can be an addiction (Credit: Getty Images)

I talked recently with a professor of addiction who told me he wakes up in the night to check the American newspapers on his phone, says Carter. I also know I shouldnt check my phone before bed, I don't want to do it, but it is actually very hard to detox.

Sleep experts believe that, like quitting cigarettes, we must learn to wean ourselves off our gadgets at night so we feel comfortable leaving them in another room.

Just the presence of the device in their bedrooms was affecting their sleep

The National Sleep Foundation in the US found a fifth of people it surveyed were woken up by their devices in the night and half of those then picked them up to use them.

Carter conducted a review of 20 studies into the impact of technology on childrens sleep patterns, finding even those who did not use phones or other devices before bed but had them in their bedrooms, slept less deeply than those who left their devices in another room.

Just the presence of the device in their bedrooms was affecting their sleep, says Carter. These children were still cognitively engaged with their devices.

Just having an object that creates a sense of anxiety in your bedroom will actually change the quality of your sleep, says Walker. Worrying about something happening the next day, such as giving an important presentation at work, has been shown to not only keep people awake at night but also decrease the amount of deep sleep they get when they do drift off.

Deficiency and addiction

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the US says that 35% of American adults are not sleeping enough, an increase from 29% ten years ago. To put this in perspective, the CDC now estimates 70 million US adults are sleeping less than six hours a night. This, it says, is leading to an epidemic of people struggling to concentrate or remember things at work. Insufficient sleep is also implicated in an increased risk of car crashes and industrial accidents.

Further sleep deficiency has been linked to a wide range of health problems, from heart disease and obesity to diabetes and depression.

It is perhaps the biggest unaddressed public health issue of our time - Colin Espie

It is perhaps the biggest unaddressed public health issue of our time, says Colin Espie, professor of sleep medicine at the University of Oxford. Sleep is essential for a wide range of functions that serve our health and well being.

Yet surprisingly, Walker says technology itself may hold the answer to regulate our night time slumbers. There are already many gadgets on the market that claim to monitor and aid sleep. And Walker hopes to use machine-learning technology to produce new ways of intervening if someone is not sleeping properly.

Washington State University Spokane's Sleep and Performance Research Center employs polysomnographic recording systems to measure sleep quality (Credit: Getty Images)

It should be possible to produce a precise sleep prescription for each person to improve their sleep, he says. It could look at your calendar for the next day and suggest that because you have an early morning call in the morning, it might be worth getting ready for bed now so you can get enough sleep.

Similarly, he suggests that algorithms could also gradually adjust our bedtime over several weeks to help us prepare for trips abroad and combat jet lag.

There is no doubt that sleep has been desperately disrupted by our gadgets, says Walker. But I also think technology could be our salvation by helping to correct our sleep too.

To comment on this story or anything else you have seen on BBC Capital, please head over to our Facebook page or message us on Twitter.

If you liked this story, sign up for the weekly bbc.com features newsletter called "If You Only Read 6 Things This Week". A handpicked selection of stories from BBC Future, Culture, Capital and Travel, delivered to your inbox every Friday.

www.bbc.com
The whole purpose of the Disappearances Act will be defeated if the past is left out of its ambit

In the North, protests by victims indicate their growing frustration over the slow pace of reforms

The very reason for the legislation is to inquire into the disappearances during the conflict

The Convention will be useful to all except those who had indulged in abductions

Media reports state that, at the suggestion of President Maithripala Sirisena, the parliamentary debate on the Bill to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances (CPAPED) will not held as scheduled on September 21.



The media also quoted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as saying that the Disappearances Bill pertains only to future cases and not those of the past (including disappearances which had occurred during the war).



These two claims have pleased the Joint Opposition (JO) led by former President Mahinda Rajapakse and Sinhala nationalists outside the JO framework, because they imply that personnel of the tri-forces will be let off the hook. But the minority Tamils are extremely disappointed, if not livid. Of the two claims, the one made by the Prime Minister has hurt the Tamils a great deal.



The whole purpose of the Disappearances Act will be defeated if the past is left out of its ambit, said Mano Ganeshan, Minister for National Co-existence, Dialogue and Official Languages and leader of the Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA).



The very reason for the legislation is to inquire into the disappearances during the conflict, especially the last few years of the war. And most cases pertain to the Tamils, he pointed out.



We condemn the reported move to postpone the debate on the Disappearances Bill and the Prime Ministers interpretation of the Bills applicability, said M.A.Sumanthiran MP and top leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA).



If the disappearance of the Tamils during the conflict and war cant be inquired into, it means that the Tamils are not just second class citizens, but are fourth class citizens, he asserted.

The Government deciding not to have the debate on the Disappearances Bill has angered the minority Tamils in the island

Sumanthiran said that the Government had been dragging its feet on the introduction of the Disappearances Bill and making the Office of Missing Persons (OMP) operational because of a lack of courage and political will in the face of opposition from the Rajapakse group.



The reported decision not to hold a debate on the Disappearances Bill on Thursday (after having postponed it once earlier) only shows the Governments pusillanimity, the Tamil leader said.



According to Sumanthiran, if the Government issued a notification making the OMP operational from September 15 and declared its intention to re-introduce the Disappearances Bill on September 21, it was because President Sirisena was going to be in the UN to address the General Assembly on September 19.



Another reason was the recent speech made by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Prince Zeid Raad bin Hussein, castigating Sri Lanka for tardy and inadequate implementation of the resolution on accountability and reconciliation which it had co-sponsored at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in September 2015.



This was what Zeid said about Sri Lanka on the opening day of the 36 th. Session of the UNHRC last week: I urge the Government to swiftly operationalize the Office of Missing Persons and to move faster on other essential confidence building measures, such as release of land occupied by the military, and resolving long-pending cases registered under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. I repeat my request for that Act to be replaced with a new law in line with international human rights standards.



In the North, protests by victims indicate their growing frustration over the slow pace of reforms. I encourage the Government to act on its commitment in Resolution 30/1 to establish transitional justice mechanisms and to establish a clear timeline and benchmarks for the implementation of these and other commitments.



This shouldnt be viewed by the Government as a box-ticking exercise to placate the Council, but as an essential undertaking to address the rights of all its people.

The absence of credible action in Sri Lanka to ensure accountability for alleged violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law makes the exercise of universal jurisdiction even more necessary.



According to Sumanthiran, the Sri Lankan Government hopes that making the OMP operational and fixing a date for a debate on the Disappearances Bill will silence critics in the UN at New York and Geneva at least during President Sirisenas sojourn in New York.



But unfortunately for the Government, JO leader G.L.Peiris let the cat out of the bag by claiming publicly, that the President had assured his group that the debate on the Disappearances Bill will not be held on September 21.



Postponement isnt going to go down well with the powers-that-be in the UN and the international community, Sumanthiran warned.



He recalled what Zeid said about window-dressing for appearances sake. Zeid said that the accountability and reconciliation measures taken so far should not be viewed by the Government as a box-ticking exercise to placate the Council, but as an essential undertaking to address the rights of all its people.



Flawed OMP Gazette

Soon after the gazette making the OMP operational from September 15 was issued, the Center for Policy Alternatives (CPA) pointed out that it wasnt constitutional, implying that it could be challenged in court.



Translating the legalese in CPAs statement into common language, Sumanthiran said: As per 19A, the President can hold only two ministerial portfolios  those of Defense and Environment. He cannot be Minister of any other subject. But in violation of this constitutional provision, he had made himself the Minister of National Integration and Reconciliation. And then, now, in a further violation of the constitution, he has issued an important notification setting up the OMP as Minister National Integration and Reconciliation, a post he is constitutionally barred from occupying. Anybody can challenge this notification in the Supreme Court.



On this ground, the OMP may be scuttled, Sumanthiran warned.



Disappearances Convention

Article 2 of the International Convention Against Enforced Disappearances says that for the purposes of the Convention, enforced disappearance is considered to be the arrest, detention, abduction or any other form of deprivation of liberty by agents of the State or by persons or groups of persons acting with the authorization, support or acquiescence of the State, followed by a refusal to acknowledge the deprivation of liberty or by concealment of the fate or whereabouts of the disappeared person, which place such a person outside the protection of the law.



This definition gives the impression that the Convention and the Bill to follow, will be targeting the Sri Lankan Security Forces and not the LTTE which is a non-State entity. This is a major worry among millions of Sri Lankans who are grateful to the armed forces of ridding the country of the scourge of terrorism.



But, as moderate Tamil leaders and even serving military commanders have said, enforced disappearances outside the framework of the law, cant be permitted or condoned even if the perpetrator is a man in uniform. This basic principle is for the good of the forces and the people of Sri Lanka at large.



If the Convention becomes part of domestic law ,then there will be no reason for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to complain and go on to say that it may be necessary to use the principle of Universal Jurisdiction in Sri Lankas case, Sumanthiran argued.



The Tamil MP added that incidents of the kind which happened in Brazil against former Army Commander Gen.Jagath Jayasuriya (when he was threatened with arrest fo alleged war crimes) would not happen if Sri Lanka had a law banning enforced disappearances and trials were held.



The Convention will be useful to all except those who had indulged in abductions which the world considers heinous.



As regards the fear that the LTTE, which had abducted and executed countless Sri Lankans, including Tamils, will be allowed to go scot-free, Sumanthiran said that once the Convention is ratified, the spirit of a universal legal principle gets embedded in domestic law and cases against the LTTE can be filed and conducted.



Sumanthiran said that the TNA isnt against LTTE cadres being proceeded against for abduction, so long as the due process is followed in letter and spirit and the application of the law is even handed.
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) Workers Union today said they would continue with their strike action as the latest discussions with the authorities ended unsuccessfully.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror the Workers Union said the first discussion was held at 2.30p.m to 4.00 p.m today at the Labour Ministry auditorium with Labour Minister W. D.J. Seneviratna, Power and Renewable Energy Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya and the CEB administration.

After we outlined our demands, the minister told us to be at the Labour Ministry at 6.00 p.m to discuss the issue further with the CEB Engineers Association as well, the CEB Workers Union said .During the discussion, the CEB Engineers Association left the meeting claiming that they couldn't agree with the CEB Workers' Union demand. Later the discussion between the Labour Minister and CEB Workers' Union continued, the Union said.

The CEB Workers Union had informed the ministers and the other officials that the strike would continue till next year if the CEB administration did not come up with a favourable response.

The CEB officials said a favourable response would be given by tomorrow to bring down the salary ratio to some extend as the workers union demands.

The CEB Workers union said if the CEB administrations decision was favourable they would end the strike action by tomorrow.

The CEB Workers Union announced their indefinite strike from September 13 over several demands including the revision of the salary ratio from 1:9 to 1:6. (Chaturanga Pradeep)
Even now I find certain sections of the media refering to the Tamil Militants as extremists and terrorists

Following is an excerpt of a speech delivered by Northern Province Chief Minister C.V.Vigneswaran at the launch of Kusal Pereras book Rajapakse the Sinhala Selfie.

It gives be immense pleasure to be involved in this book launch. Apart from Kusal being a friend of ours, who was kind enough to accompany us to meet the Mahanayake Theros last weekend, the book launched by him is also about a friend of his. The book is titled Rajapakse the Sinhala Selfie. A selfie is when we take our own photograph. When Mahinda Rajapakse takes one he sees not Rajapakse, but a Sinhala man. What sort of Sinhala man is he, is what Kusal talks about in his book.



In his preface Kusal says the following about Mahinda  In Mahinda I thus found a very easy friend who agreed often and rarely disagreed. In fact he never disagreed possibly for his own convenience

That is an apt description of Mahinda Rajapakse. Despite a lot of objections from my own quarters, I had taken Oaths before him on the 7th of October 2013 as Chief Minister of the Northern Province. He was so friendly. Then on 2nd of January 2014, I went and met him at his official residence. He was full of charm. I had about ten requests including the replacing of the Military Governor whose term was coming to an end. I said there was no necessity for a Military person to be the Governor and wanted him to replace the incumbent Governor with a civilian. Mahinda was quite impressive. Of course we must change that, he said. But let him wait till July this year when his period of office comes to an end. Thereafter I will appoint a civilian he said. In fact he had asked for the names of possible suitable replacements and I had suggested some names too.



When July came he granted a further extension to the selfsame Governor with the Military background conveniently forgetting his undertaking to me. I believe none of the ten requests made by me was fulfilled even though he studiously undertook to look into them favorably. Such is the Sinhala Selfie. He says something having another idea in his mind. Prevarication is his forte.



There is another important observation Kusal makes in his Preface, That is that the Tamil Diaspora never read right and failed to understand the political implications of the word Terrorism. There has been a serious shift in global politics after the New York 9/11 tragedy during the time of George Bush Junior which made US Intelligence and State Officials to classify and label all armed politics as terrorism or equivalents of Al Qaeda. Rajapakse had capitalized on that calling the Tamil Militants as Terrorists equivalent to Al Qaeda. Incidentally yesterday was the 16th anniversary of the 2001 event.



Even now I find certain sections of the media refering to the Tamil Militants as extremists and terrorists. In the global arena all acts of militancy on the part of the Tamil youth are referred to as Terrorist activities. To that extent Mahinda had transformed a local political military agitation into a global phenomenon.



It is about this Mahinda the Sinhala Selfie that todays book is all about. There are questions being asked why Vigneswaran should lend his support to the launching of a book on Mahinda Rajapakse. There is also a whispering conversation thus   Sambandan is courting Mahinda  Is Vigneswaran providing the flowers?

Frankly I first accepted the invitation of my friend Kusal Perera to be present at his book launch. It was thereafter that I tried to find out what the book was about.



Having seen a paragraph at the tailend of the book I thought why not.



Let me quote that paragraph verbatim  The brutality with which this whole war was waged by the Rajapaksa regime can never be underscored and can never be justified. Its brutality wasnt limited to the North-East only. It was never limited to persecuting the Tamil people only, though they were the most ruthlessly hounded. This war, waged by the Rajapaksa regime, dismantled the long standing democratic structures of the whole society and has overturned social values. It has totally violated democratic and human rights of the people. It has throttled media freedom and coerced all media to obey its dictates. It has paved the way for a politico military regime that no longer represents the elected Government and is not responsible to the people. It has eroded the sovereignty of the people with an intimidating social psyche, in the name of eliminating Tamil terrorism. With the contents of that paragraph one cant disagree. Under the guise of eliminating Tamil terrorism Mahinda Rajapakse paved the way for a politico Military regime. While Mahinda was politically elected, a petrol bunk worker in the US was called in to lead the Military regime, which wasnt responsible to the people. No doubt such action eroded the sovereignty of the people.



Far from providing the flowers to Mr.Sambandan to woo Mahinda, I am trying to arm myself with the brickbats needed at the appropriate time. It is a trite saying that the villain gains popularity sooner than the hero. But it isnt popularity; it is notoriousness.

It is the notoriety of Mahinda that is for sale today in the book authored by Kusal Perera and not an eulogy. Hence I am not on the same wave length as Mr.Sambandan.

One of the positive observations about the LTTE mentioned by Kusal in his book should not go unreported. This was something that used to perplex me. He gives his remarks which make sense. Let me refer to the relevant paragraph.



The story that made rounds and the UNP stalwarts kept saying is that former Parliamentarian Tiran Alles negotiated a deal on behalf of Rajapakse for the boycott of elections. One Emil Kanthan of the LTTE, it is said, was the contact. I tend to believe that, that may have been a different business deal Tiran Alles negotiated with Kanthan that was for political reasons tinkered into the LTTE boycott.



He goes on to say this  Personally I dont believe a person like Emil Kanthan can be profiled as a capable and a valid contact to play middleman for any agreement with Prabhakaran and the LTTE leadership on an election boycott. There were better and more capable men if need be, who frequented Colombo meeting diverse people to solicit support for their own relief and livelihood projects. The LTTE political wing and peace secretariat head Pulidevan was one among such few. He could have been a more trustworthy contact for a political compromise with the LTTE if the Rajapakses wanted any. Yet I doubt very much, Prabhakaran would have gambled on his politico military future, on bundles of money sent from Colombo by one whose fate depended on how people vote.



Kusal states elsewhere that the Tamil Diasporas stubborn incapacity to read global politics after 9/11, allowed them to assume, their international campaign could have UN intervention in establishing an autonomous Thamil State in the North-East. For which they thought, they needed a hardline Sinhala Buddhist leader as President in Colombo, who would not agree to anything more than the presently dwarfed 13th Amendment. That was the reason why the LTTE went on a boycott. The popular reading even before the presidential election was declared predicted that the Tamil people, at least the larger majority of them, would vote for Wickramasinghe, at least to continue with the ceasefire.



In other words the LTTE wanted Mahinda Rajapakse at the helm of affairs for what might have been to their benefit.



Kusal was close to the Rajapakse family. More so to Mahinda himself. Yet he wrote an open letter on the eve of the election on 13th November 2005 to Mahinda concluding I therefore will not vote for you as that would amount to hanging the fate of this country by a shawl He observes Huge corruption amounting to plunder, nepotism and constitutional authoritarianism with the war winning military projected as War Heroes was the hallmark of his rule. He said I have thus called his rule a kleptocracy. What that meant was Mahinda used his power to steal our countrys resources.

Kusal knew personally the central character in his book. He was and is in the midst of the growth of Sinhala populism around this man, Mahinda Rajapakse, whom he knew so well



Kusals book, which I had little time to read in full, has a few plus points. He knew personally the central character in his book. He was and is in the midst of the growth of Sinhala populism around this man Mahinda Rajapakse whom he knew so well. But what he regrets in this book is that Mahindas populism extended into extreme and violent ethno religious presence in Sri Lankan politics.



In this book Kusal traces Mahindas ancestry, his absorption into the orbit of Sinhala Nationalism, his entry into SLFP politics and so on. Then he discusses the steps already taken before Mahinda took over the reins of power to discriminate against the Tamils more specially the Tamil students in the form of standardization to neutralize the superior performance of Tamil medium students in Science Subjects.



He goes on to state Thus the consolidation of the Sinhala Buddhist State was achieved through numerous, complex and politically manipulated means over almost 03 decades. Every such intervention in turn strengthened the Sinhala social psyche and made the two leading political parties compete for Sinhala votes in gaining political power at every election. (Unquote) This is a major reason why the Tamil problem has not been solved by any party so far. Actually it is so simple to solve the problems of the Northern and Eastern Province Tamil speaking people. Recognize their individuality and draft constitutional provisions accordingly and this country could immediately take off towards peace, reconciliation and economic regeneration.



Then he refers to a statement by my colleague at Royal College and friend Dr.Nihal Jayawickreme in a speech by him at the birth centenary of Dr. Colvin R de Silva on 1/3/2008. It is regarding the 1972 and 1978 constitutions, which were constitutions that the then political parties wanted for their politics and not constitutions which looked into the problems and grievances of the people. It runs thus If I may sum up, I do not think there was any philosophy underlying either of the republican constitutions.



They merely reflected on the policies of the political parties under whose auspices they were drafted; or perhaps more accurately, the imperatives of the two leaders whose personalities dominated the drafting processes. Dr Colvin R. de Silva and the Lanka Sama Samaja Party probably saw in the overwhelming majority, which the United Front received in the 1970 General Elections, the opportunity to introduce and implement his and its long held political beliefs, and wished to do so without obstruction from any quarter, whether it be the public service, the judiciary, or the more moderate-minded prime minister. The tragedy was that in doing so, the constituent assembly failed to hear or recognize the voice of the North, expressed so clearly at the same general election. (unquote) The other drafter Nihal mentioned was Dr.H.W.Jayewardena who was responsible for the 1978 constitution.



Refering to the 1972 constitution, Dr.Jayawickreme was quoted as saying the basic Resolutions upon which the 1972 Constitution was drafted, rested completely in accord with the United Front and Government policy, and not on public accord, as acceded by Dr. Colvin R de Silva, the architect of that constitution. Thus Dr. Jayawickrama says, it took away (1) the second chamber, which was intended to serve the minorities (2) independent Public Service Commission, intended to guarantee strict impartiality in all matters affecting public service appointments (3) Judicial Service Commission, intended to guarantee the independence and integrity of the judiciary (4) nominated members in the legislature, intended to represent unrepresented interests (5) judicial review of legislation and (6) prohibition on discriminatory legislation contained in section 29, which the Privy Council had described as representing the solemn balance of rights between the citizens of Ceylon; the fundamental conditions on which inter se the Tamil leaders accepted the Constitution, and are therefore politically unalterable under the Constitution.



I like to refer to a four point note submitted by the Federal Party to the Constituent Assembly which is referred to by the author next. It runs thus A four point note submitted to the Constituent Assembly by the FP led Tamil representation requesting the new constitution to (1) provide equal constitutional status for Tamil language as Sinhala language (2) establish a secular State (3) decentralise governing structures and (4) grant citizenship without discrimination to all Tamil plantation sector workers, was also rejected by the UF representation in the Constituent Assembly including LSSP and CP leaderships. Therefore, the new Constitution that turned Ceylon into a sovereign and independent Republic called Sri Lanka, firmly centralised the State as a unitary Sinhala Buddhist State, beneath the words, sovereign and independent. And, far worse was their negation of ethnic identities and that by a leading Leftist minister, a one time Marxist scholar who stood for two languages and a single country, to lump every one together as Sri Lankan citizens. Politics of this UF Government therefore laid the basis for the radicalising of Tamil youth, but also made the most democratic, decent and peace loving of all Tamil leaders loved by the Tamil people to seek an alternative to his most cherished dream of living in a single united country. He, Thanthai Chelva sought political refuge in a separate Thamil State and resigned from his parliamentary seat, Kankasanthurai (KKS) in 1972 October. Chelvanayagam, SJV in popular politics, said he would challenge the 72 Republican Constitution at a by election to prove the Tamil people didnt accept it. The UF Government led by Madam Bandaranaike kept postponing the bye -election. This led to more frustration among Tamil people and for the first time in 1973 at ITAKs 12th convention held in Mallakam, serious discussions ensued on the feasibility of a Separate Thamil State.



The UF leadership finally decided to have the KKS by election in February 1974. Chelvanayagam romped home with a massive voter support that topped 72.55 per cent of the total polled. This is the highest ever number of votes in post independent parliamentary elections to date. The UF Government fielded the CP leader in Jaffna, V. Ponnambalam. He polled 26.46 per cent only. This election was just 02 years before Thanthai Chelva, the father figure in Tamil Nationalist politics bade farewell to the world after 33 years of very active, democratic politics. Three years before that and 30 years after active and hectic, but democratic Tamil politics, he was compelled by the Sinhala leaders to accept a Separate Thamil State as the only answer to the political grievances of the Tamil people to live with dignity.



I wish to announce to my people and to the country that I consider the verdict at this election as a mandate that the Tamil Eelam nation should exercise the sovereignty already vested in the Tamil people and become free he said in a public statement accepting victory at the bye-election.



This clearly explains what happened. Coming from a Sinhalese journalist though he doesnt consider himself a Sinhalese, but a humane being, the reference to what took place in an impartial manner should be taken note of by our die hard Sinhala so called nationalists. Many matters which I would have wanted to bring to your notice, Kusal has referred to in his book. If I refer to them I might be called an extremist or a rabble rouser. I doubt such epithets being used against Kusal. But what both of us are trying to say is the truth and nothing but the truth.



It isnt my intention to take you through the whole book which I have not finished reading yet. But it is useful for the general public to remember the political antics of the past which gave rise to the present impasse in this country which matters I have cursorily referred to from Kusals Book.



It is a timely publication. Though it refers to Mahinda the Sinhala Selfie, the book is full of historical facts of the recent past which traces the steps that led to the armed rebellion. The call for a free Tamil Nation came not from Prabakaran, but Chevanayagam first.



In this scenario Mahindas part is aptly referred to in the last paragraph of the Book.

Thus two and a half years without Mahinda remains as much Rajapaksa as it was before. And that for me is the most that can be written here on how the Sinhala factor with Mahinda remains unchallenged yet. And it would remain so with no alternatives discussed for a plural and a secular society, democracy remaining procedural and not functional.



Eric Metaxas,the American Author, Speaker and Radio Host said With the tools of democracy, democracy was murdered and lawlessness made legal. Raw power ruled, and its only real goal was to destroy all other powers besides itself.



This is the most appropriate quote by Kusal to what happened during Mahinda Rajapakses reign.



Before I conclude let me refer to the meetings with the High Priests of Malwatte and Asgiriya last weekend. The two High Priests are personifications of contrary characteristics. I am sure Mahinda would find himself closer in spirit to Asgiriya rather than Malwatte.



The latter welcomed us cordially. The former was officious. One is not sure whether the Karaka Sabha constricts the Venerable Asgiriya Prelates freedom.



The Malwatte Priest was humane and interested in alleviating the sufferings of the people. The Asgiriya Karaka Sabha members, who wouldnt allow me a personal audience with the High Priest, but made sure all of them sat at a higher pedestal while I and my group sat at cushions placed in lower positions, were interested in protecting their Sinhala Buddhist sentiments. They appeared conceited and almost offensively self assertive.



They had made up their mind that federalism is separation. I did point out to them that a recent Supreme Court judgment had confirmed that federalism isnt separation and it is a way to bring disparate units together. I pointed out it was the Kandyan elite who first opted for federalism before the British Commissioners in 1930-1940. The Kandyans had said that they wished to protect their individuality by opting for federalism. The Asgiriya Priest didnt appear convinced. If we could get past the veil of hardline arrogance of the Asgiriya Priests I am sure we could solve the political problems of this Country soon. They seem to be a very powerful section among the Sinhala Buddhists. To that extent ours was a useful fact finding visit.



I have always said that I like to meet the so called hardliners among the Sinhala Buddhists. In the Members of the Karaka Sabha I found some of them. I have confidence that we could, if given time, wean them from their hardline stance to transform them to become humanes like the Matwatte Priest,

After all their arrogance is artificial. It is based on false beliefs, wrong presumptions and distorted perceptions. Once the truth is stated or is recognized they would return to their real fundamental Buddhist base which is understanding and love, not hatred and suspicion.



I thank you for your patient hearing. I thank Kusal for inviting me to be with all of you today. Thanks.
AFP: Google and Facebook may face higher tax bills in Europe as the EU rushed this weekend to change rules so that more of Silicon Valleys mega profits fall into public coffers.



Public anger against the billions of euros earned by online behemoths is growing louder in Europe and EU finance ministers meeting in Estonia pledged to make sure the companies pay a fairer tax. But divisions emerged on how to go about taking on the giants, with several member states worried that a tax in Europe could push the companies to set up shop in the US or Asia. In the digital age the current taxation system no longer applies and that is why we have to find another solution, said Toomas Toniste, Finance Minister of Estonia, which hold the EUs six-month rotating presidency.

Led by France and Germany, big EU powers urged their bloc partners to explore an emergency tax so that the giants pay tax where they earn revenue, instead of on profits booked in a low-tax EU HQ of their choice, often Ireland or Luxembourg.



We are now about 10 countries to back this idea, said French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire as stepped into the talks, adding that he hoped for a firm proposal by December.



We dont want a Europe at the heel of others, he added.

But the road ahead will be difficult. Europe-wide tax reform is a huge headache in the European Union, requiring unanimity of all 28 states, which has proven nearly impossible on tax issues.

Ministers from smaller member states already hinted at difficulties, warning that they would much prefer the problem be addressed at the international level, such as at the G20 or through the OECD, the club of rich nations.



I think we should be very careful not to tax on what we are going to live on in the future, said Danish Finance Minister Kristian Jensen.



I am... always sceptical by new taxes and I think Europe taxes heavily enough,

he added.



The OECD has also poured doubt on the proposal.



Generally speaking, taxes on revenues, theyre daft, said Pascal Saint-Amans, the OECDs tax policy director during a hearing on Wednesday at the French parliament.



But politically, I understand that it may be necessary, given that reform led by the OECD at the G20 level could take years to achieve.



British Finance Minister Philip Hammond warned against angering Washington, which could abandon OECD tax reform in retaliation, sources familiar with the matter told AFP.



We should see what the United States thinks because a lot of these companies are US based, said Spanish Economy Minister Luis de Guindos.



The commission, the EUs executive arm, has been tasked to draw up a set of solutions, including the French proposal, in time for an EU leaders summit in Tallinn on September 29.



We cannot have a whole sector of the economy that pretty much escapes taxation, EUs economy commissioner Pierre Moscovici, who will shepherd the plan, told France Inter radio.



Europeans have become increasingly aggressive against US technology giants seen by officials as gaining too much power, with Amazon and Apple also under scrutiny.



Moreover, several national authorities in the EU have opened up tax fights with Google, Airbnb and other Internet giants.



A French court, citing EU law, ruled in July that Google was not liable for 1.12 billion euros (US$1.27 billion) in taxes claimed by the state. France appealed the decision.
Nearly 72 years ago - in August 1945 - the US detonated the first nuclear weapons over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki killing over a hundred thousand Japanese civilians in the first four months after the bombs were detonated.

In actuality it was the first use of a weapon of mass destruction on civilian targets. The effects of the bomb killed many thousands within minutes. It completely destroyed the two cities, left thousands suffering from radiation exposure and unborn who would continue to suffer the effects of the destruction wrecked by the two bombs.

According to Huffuingtonpoast.com the bomb dropped over Hiroshima used Uranium-235, while the Nagasaki bomb had Plutonium-239. The half-life of U-235 is 700 million years, while that of Plu-239 is 24,000 years!

The US has been the only country to unleash the devastating power of nuclear weapons on civilian populations. It has still to apologise for the suffering and destruction it caused, neither has it paid compensation to the victims of the atrocity.

On September 15, North Korea carried out yet another missile test over Japan. The missile flew over Japans northern island of Hokkaido and travelled a distance 2,300 miles before crashing into the sea. According to CNN, North Korea has fired22 missiles during 15tests since February this year.

Earlier this month on the 3rd of September to be specific, the newest member of the nuclear club North Korea- successfully tested a hydrogen bomb underground. Its state-run broadcaster warned the bomb could be loaded onto its Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). The Japanese fear and anger over the North Korea tests overflying the country is understandable and North Koreas action deplorable.

Condemnation of the test came fast and swift with the US leading calls for stronger sanctions and demanding Russia and China call the latest member of the club to heel, and halt its weapons development programme.

North Korea with its experience during the Korean War, where the US Air Force dropped napalm bombs on parts of that country killing nearly 20% of its population, adamantly refuses to halt its weapons development programme, claiming its weapons of mass destruction are its sole safeguard against a possible future US attacks.

The North Koreans do have a point. They too cannot have forgotten the US atomic bombing of Japan during the closing stages of World War II, that came at a time Japan was on the brink of surrendering.

So, is there a way the world can move away from more countries developing nuclear arsenals and toward nuclear non-proliferation? Yes, there is a remote possibility. A faint light appears to be hovering at the end of the tunnel.

In July this year, more than 70 years after the first and only nuclear weapon was used against civilians, the United Nations (UN) adopted a global treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The treaty was approved by 122 nations with only the Netherlands voting against and Singapore abstaining.

In two days time; September 20, the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons will be open for signatures from all UN members at the sessions of the UN General Assembly.

The Guardian quotes Beatrice Fihn of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons in Geneva saying we banned biological weapons 45 years ago, we banned chemical weapons 25 years ago, and today we are banning nuclear weapons. Within two years the treaty could have the 50-state ratifications that it needs to enter into international law.

As Finn points out, treaties like the Landmines Treaty too did not have the backing of the US and a few other key states, but today they too have aligned themselves to it. It may not happen soon, but it will happen, sometime in the future and the ban on nuclear weapons will become part of international law.

Nuclear-armed nations, US, Britain, France, Israel, India, China, Russia, Pakistan and nations under their protection or hosting weapons boycotted the negotiations. The US angrily criticised the negotiations holding up North Koreas testing of nuclear weapons and long-range missiles as a reason for retention of nuclear weapons. Yet, the US is the only country in the world to have calculatedly used nuclear weapons on civilian populations.

The vociferous din it is creating over North Koreas weapons programme rings hollow when viewed with its own actions.

What the world and its peoples need, is freedom from the threat of a nuclear holocaust. Not the angry trumpeting of slogans such as all options are on the table
The government has started auditing the Colombo city hotels to bring to book the violators of the minimum room rate regulation, Tourism Development and Christian Affairs Minister John Amaratunga said yesterday.



We have introduced a minimum rate because the hoteliers want it but (even) with that people are violating that behind the scene. In fact, there is now an audit programme, which has been put in place to take action, he said in reply to questions raised by Mirror Business.

Many hotels in Colombo have been accused of selling rooms below the minimum rate to corporate clients and in business-to-business transactions with tour operators. Rooms are also sold at minimum price to retail clients, with plenty of complimentary services.

This new revelation seems to indicate that laws would apply to both ants and giants going forward, since the government this month indicated that it would go through with enforcing regulations on the informal sectordominated by small bed and breakfast unitsby setting up an Enforcement Unit, following intense lobbying from large hotels.

The fine for each violating sale of a hotel room under the minimum room rate regulation is US $ 1,000 and the difference between the selling price and the regulated price of a hotel room. However, hotels have violated this with relative impunity over the past eight years.



The regulation was introduced in 2009 in response to small hotels being pushed out of competition through under pricing by five-star hotels.



Amaratunga said that he is not a fan of the minimum room rate regulation.



My personal view is that we should not go for long with this minimum wage. We should open it out but we shouldnt become like Thailand, giving rooms for US $ 10 or US $ 15. We have to maintain our standards, he said.



On numerous occasions over the past two years, Amaratunga had announced policies to discontinue the minimum room rates by March 2017 but on each occasion, within days, lobby groups such as the Colombo City Hoteliers Association had managed to convince Amaratunga to continue with the minimum room rates, creating policy uncertainty.



The latest reversal came last October, when Amaratunga said that the removal of the regulation will be delayed by two years.



Most Sri Lankan hotels compete on price instead of quality and due to this, have been feeling the pressure from informal home-stay units catering to modern trends such as authentic experiences at cheap prices. Hotels are also facing issues in hiring and retaining labour, affecting their quality.



Due to a glass ceiling for the younger generation, lower wages, which do not correspond to the difficult and long hours of labour and the discriminatory nature of distributing an unregulated service charge, most young talent seeks hospitality jobs abroad, shortcomings which have been admitted by some leaders in the industry.

Amaratunga, while denying that Sri Lankan hotels are inefficient and do not provide sufficient quality, said that hotels could set higher prices if there were highly trained labour to provide premium service and that the governments new training programmes would hopefully address this over the next two years.



Despite the existence of the minimum room rate and concessionary loan schemes, Amaratunga also said that the government is not providing that big of a support for the hotel industry and that the industry is now becoming more competitive.


Universities arent geared in directing us to the practical side of the subject matter

The Government has no idea about what sort of research we need. The idea should be fed by academics

I have students in the undergraduate programme who have filed applications for patents

Teachers and lecturers should teach children about life, moral values and qualities

As a researcher working on sustainable development, this is the best country one can ever work in

I believe that the engineering and the management faculties should do a common research

Another interesting innovation was the Vegetated Roof Slab system where I have introduced grass instead of insulation

Sri Lanka has produced many intellectuals who have conquered the world in various fields. Hence we are equipped with enough resources and in turn can move forward with novel innovations. This is what Professor Rangika Halwatura believes in. Employed as a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa (UOM), Prof. Halwatura was recently recognised as the Best Scientist in the Developing World by The World Academy of Science. With a PhD in Structural and Building Services Engineering, also from UOM, Prof. Halwatura has so far obtained seven patents for his unique innovations. Thus he is a hardworking academic who has a passion to do things differently. In a candid interview with the Daily Mirror, Prof. Halwatura spoke about the engineering industry, opportunities for the youth and issues he has identified in the local education system.



Excerpts :

QTell us about yourself

My roots are in Kalutara and my school is KalutaraVidyalaya. Back then when someone asked whom I wanted to be my reply was either to be an army officer or an engineer. In engineering I only knew about civil engineering at the time because two of my cousins were involved in it. I always had an interest for construction materials which I may have acquired from my grandfather because he was a good farmer. I remember him constructing a seven or eight kilometre road in my hometown. That was one way how I got inspired. After the 88/89 incidents I gave up on my idea about the military and was left with the engineering option. I joined the University of Moratuwa just after my A/Ls and did my engineering degree there.

We cant live with this island mentality anymore. But we are equipped with a culture, values and knowledge. I always believe that when we go to other countries we need to secure our knowledge



Unlike today, school and university life was so much fun because we had a lot of friends and it is one memorable chapter in anyones life. My parents always had their trust in me and I enjoyed a lot of freedom. Although I was interested in my studies I was also involved in various activities conducted by the Students Union and I also did various sports.





QWhat sort of an exposure did you receive in the university in terms of your studies?



Universities arent geared in directing us to the practical side of the subject matter. I have discussed this matter with the Vice Chancellor on several occasions because theres a vast difference between a teacher and a lecturer. This difference could be seen in how they create knowledge and disseminate it. Teaching shouldnt only be confined to the subject matter. Teachers and lecturers should teach children about life, moral values and qualities. But we dont see this happening. If anybody comes to earn money from the education system they should stay away from the university gate. If I go to the university to earn money Im destroying the education system. I am a chartered engineer and I earn money when I work in the industry. We spend on more external courses than internal courses. Postgraduate teaching is for those who are in the industry. Back then we didnt get opportunities to try out new innovations, but today students have ample opportunities to research and innovate. I have students in the undergraduate programme who have filed applications for patents.



Im happy to see many students showing a keen interest on research and it is our responsibility to offer them the proper guidance. Our education system should be structured to teach children in a more interesting manner. If we take five students and teach them all the technical details they will pick it up, but the problem is they dont have the soft skills. They dont know how to communicate, speak or understand the laymens language.



QYou have already obtained seven patents. Tell us about these innovations.



The minimum recognition is given for patents. If you want to develop the country we have to own the intellectual property. When we were schooling there was a poem titled Mage Rata. According to this poem we have all the resources we need, but we cant beat other countries. We cant live with this island mentality anymore. But we are equipped with a culture, values and knowledge. I always believe that when we go to other countries we need to secure our knowledge. The Mud Concrete Block was the first patent I got and from there onwards I developed the concepts. The others include a heat insulation system, Mud paving block, Self-compacting in-situ cast mud-concrete load bearing wall system, Vegetated Roof Slab system, Modular Formwork system for in-situ cast walls made out of self-compacting soil-based materials and a Bamboo Heat Insulation Panel for Roof Slabs.

Although we find the solutions, those products are not marketable and this is why the industry doesnt approach us. If we can market ourselves they will come to us and fund the research



In a nutshell I have always wanted to include local materials in to the construction system instead of foreign materials. We use cement in almost all construction work and I have found that cement is the material which increases the embodied energy and Carbon footprint. To produce cement you need more energy, but bricks are a more sustainable material. For example in the Bamboo Heat Insulation Panel I have replaced the polyethylene layer with bamboo because I found out that it is more efficient. Another interesting innovation was the Vegetated Roof Slab system where I have introduced grass instead of insulation. When constructing a building you cannot load it too much, so the idea here was to have a two inch soil layer and make the turf.



QDo you think that there are opportunities for the youth in the engineering industry?



These patents I achieved wouldnt have been a reality if not for my research students and I appreciate them for having placed their trust in me. I interview them and include them in my research and my group always has a good blend since they are not only engineering students.



Through this they will know what their colleague is studying and will get an exposure about different fields. They have been my second family and we are always together. We havent exposed them to the actual industry, so we need to work with them with clear boundaries. Im always encouraging my students to work with the industry and therefore all graduates should be employable. But to get them employed we have to understand what the industry needs.

These patents I achieved wouldnt have been a reality if not for my research students and I appreciate them for having placed their trust in me



QWe see that students are exposed to more theory than practical knowledge. How could the education system be transformed from a content-based system to a problem-based one?



Education evolves. Although our system has changed many times it never fits the industry. Theres no vision in our country. This is not only in terms of education, but in various other aspects as well. We also never thought of international benchmarking. Since we have this island mentality we dont want to tie up with other countries. The world education system has changed from a content-based system to problem-based. Students should understand a question, find possible solutions for the question and then find an answer. But we spoon-feed the students and expect them to replicate the same thing. So where and how can we encourage critical thinking?



QWhat issues have you come across in the industry?



We have everything in this country. As a researcher working on sustainable development, this is the best country one can ever work in. When driving from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya one can experience all the climatic conditions. From Nuwara Eliya to Jaffna this changes again. If you go to another country with tropical climates you cant experience this. Theres no issue with funding as well because the universities and even the National Science Foundation and the National Research Council could assist us.

Although we find the solutions, those products are not marketable and this is why the industry doesnt approach us. If we can market ourselves they will come to us and fund the research. The only issue I can see in this system is jealousy. This is because our people havent been taught to value ourselves. If we can take this component out, our universities will be the worlds best.



QResearch and development is an important area of focus. Is the Government doing enough to fund and promote research-based projects?



The Government has no idea about what sort of research we need. The idea should be fed by academics. Politicians dont know how to link research with development. I believe that the engineering and the management faculties should do a common research. But we hardly see any two faculties working together. People should be creative in their thinking, but we havent given them an opportunity to think freely.



QWhats your message to the youth and society.



We dont live forever, so we have to be happy with what we do. But in the process dont hurt another person while seeking your happiness. I cant change the lives of everyone I meet but if I could change the life of at least one person, that is my satisfaction.



(Pics by KushanPathiraja )
Global real-estate consulting powerhouse Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) called for a re-evaluation of the regulatory and legal mechanisms around Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) as a vital first step towards their introduction into the domestic market.

In a global context, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have become an integral part of the investment landscape, accepted by individual and institutional investors, alike, as providing greater access to commercial real estate projects.

In Sri Lanka too, the potential benefits to the domestic economy from the introduction of REITs are significant. Their introduction will likely signal stronger economic growth and job creation, but, moreover, REITs provide a platform for much needed foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka without transferring the ownership of the real estate asset to the foreign investor. Given the current regulations around foreign ownership, we believe that REITs are one of the most viable mechanisms for attracting investment into Sri Lankas commercial real estate sector, JLL observed.

Defined as a company that acquires, owns and operates income producing real estate assets, which typically include apartment blocks, commercial office buildings, shopping malls, hotels, warehouses and industrial buildings, their requirements for external funding means that REITs are typically listed on a countrys stock exchange and unit holders are able to purchase shares via an initial public offering (IPO) or on an exchange platform.

The funds collected through this mechanism are invested in a diverse portfolio of professionally managed real estate assets and, the income thus derived, by renting, leasing, or selling those assets, after costs, is distributed directly to unit holders, by way of a dividend.

However, JLL noted that prior to the introduction of REITs to the domestic market, significant reforms would be necessary in relation to Sri Lankas legal and regulatory frameworks in order to ensure sufficiently robust safeguards and procedural mechanisms to enable a secure foundation for REITs to flourish.

Establishing REITs in a new market depends heavily upon support from local regulatory bodies and authorities including the implementation of a Unit Trust Code, but there also needs to be an efficient and stable tax regime in place to instill confidence in investors. In addition to transparent taxation policies, that are required to be applied in an equitable fashion, there is a need for certain limited tax concessions to stimulate yields and make REITs more attractive, JLL stated, citing the example of stamp duty as one area where concessions could be applied.

Several studies have shown that the socio economic benefits provided by REITS outweigh any losses in tax revenue, and supportive policies, along with international standards of corporate governance are essential to entice foreign investors who are, in turn, the lifeblood to the longer term prosperity of REITs in the country, it noted.

Current restrictions on foreigners owning land in Sri Lanka have been a significant hurdle to foreign capital inflows in Sri Lanka, however JLL noted that if regulations were enacted to help mitigate these challenges while still ensuring that the title of a given property is not directly transferred to a foreign investor, then a significant obstacle to the establishment of REITs in Sri Lanka would have been cleared.

First established in the USA in 1960, REITs are widely regarded as investment vehicles that democratize real estate ownership, enabling retail investors to take a diversified stake in real estate, something that they, in all probability, could not achieve as individual investors. The benefits to individual investors are well documented, including greater access to commercial real estate projects, but also a secure and stable income stream, derived from multi-year lease contracts from the real estate assets held, swift entry and exit options, via exchange listings, which effectively turn an illiquid asset class, real estate, liquid, and the prospect of steady long term appreciation. Unlike stocks and shares, the value of the underlying assets is more insulated from business cycle pressures.

While REITs are yet to be introduced in Sri Lanka, the Asian REIT market is now valued at approximately US$180 billion with Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan being the clear market leaders. The REIT market in Singapore alone was worth US$38 billion, in 2012, and these figures encouraged Pakistan to launch the first South Asian REIT ahead, even, of India in 2015.

The raft of benefits to the Sri Lankan economy presented by the introduction of REITs is surely too tempting to resist for much longer, but, this is only one side of the coin. Authorities and regulators in Sri Lanka must clearly understand that for REITs to flourish in the longer run, they must focus on establishing a conducive environment to encourage corporate and investor participation.

This needs to be supported by strong corporate governance, a commitment to transparency and a stable taxation regime, before the investor community embraces Sri Lankas hesitant first steps into the REIT arena, JLL concluded.
The Auburn Police Department is looking for information regarding a fight that occurred Monday morning on Washington Street.

According to a press release, at around 10 a.m., officers responded to 20 Washington St. after callers reported a fight outside the residence.

Detective Bryant Bergenstock said initial reports indicated there were unspecified weapons involved. Both APD and New York State Police responded.

Upon arrival, police said they detained two male subjects. One of the subjects was transported to Auburn Community Hospital with minor injuries. Bergenstock said on Monday afternoon that victim was expected to be released from the hospital shortly.

Meanwhile, the second subject was airlifted via Mercy Flight to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse. Bergenstock said it was a precaution due to the nature of the man's injuries, which turned out to be non-life threatening.

Police were called to the residence at least three times Monday. Bergenstock said officers had responded to a "domestic-related incident" before the incident at 10 a.m. Then, at around 4 p.m., police were dispatched to 20 Washington St. again for reports of "possible retaliation."

Bergenstock said the investigation is active but in its "infancy stage." No arrests have been made.

Anyone who has any information or surveillance images of the incident is asked to contact Bergenstock at (315) 258-9880 or Investigator Christopher White at (315) 252-5874 or (315) 253-3231. Callers can remain anonymous.
The US has stressed that there will be no major change in its trade policy towards Sri Lanka in the aftermath of its new administration and hinted on stronger economic relations in the future, based on the bedrock US-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) inked in Washington in 2002, to which Colombo consented readily yesterday.



It is tough to predict the future, stressed the Washington DC-based visiting new Assistant US Trade Representative South and Central Asian Affairs Office of the US Trade Representative Mark Linscott yesterday in Colombo.



Linscott was meeting Sri Lankan Industry and Commerce Ministry team led by Industry and Commerce Ministry Secretary Chinthaka Lokuhetti representing Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen, joined by Commerce Department Director General Sonali Wijeratne and other Commerce Department officials and Bathiudeens Senior Advisor Himali Jinadasa.



Linscott was joined by Economic and Commercial Officer of US Embassy in Colombo William Humnicky.



The new US administration has a significant shift in change towards several of its trade agreements-mainly the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal and there is a big focus on renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) as well as correcting our current trade deficits too, Linscott.



He added, Despite this, I am not expecting any significant changes in the US bilateral trade with Sri Lanka or our TIFA with Sri Lanka. Being a hub in the region, this is a remarkably exciting time for Sri Lanka and we share the interest in working with Sri Lanka and exploiting its natural advantages for better trade.



The World Trade Organisation (WTO) Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) would bring immediate international attention if Sri Lanka moves ahead while I agree that these are challenging initiatives for the country. Also we are pleased of the governments public-private partnership vision, which the TIFA too stresses about. The US is the largest export market for Sri Lanka but our exports to Sri Lanka have not increased in parallel and are down the list, something we need to work on.



When it comes to Sri Lankas trade with the world in 2016, 27.5 percent of total Lankan annual exports headed to US, while 2.77 percent of total imports from the world to Sri Lanka were from the US. According to the Commerce Department of Sri Lanka, of last years Sri Lanka-US total bilateral trade, only 16 percent were imports to Sri Lanka (US $ 540 million) while 84 percent were exports from Sri Lanka to the US (at US $ 2.8 billion).



In the five period of 2012-16, Sri Lankas exports to the US surged by 33 percent from US $ 2.11 billion (in 2012) to US $ 2.8 billion (in 2016). In the same period, imports from the US to Sri Lanka surged by 130 percent to US $ 540 million.



Sri Lankas leading exports to the US in 2016 were apparels and clothing accessories and made up textile articles (all three totalling to 11.5 percent of overall exports), solid, new and used tyres (6 percent) followed by fish, activated carbon and mineral and cinnamon. Among leading imports from the US in 2016 were oil cakes (13 percent), optical and photographic (10 percent), plastics (5 percent), medicaments (3 percent), and wheat and meslin (3 percent), etc.



Sri Lankan officials apprised Linscott on the countrys many new trade initiatives based on the vision of the unity government of Sri Lanka and thanked for recent US-GSP support.



We welcome the recent US support by expanding US GSPs scope, which enhances our exports of travel goods to the US, said Lokuhetti.



He added, Sri Lanka has one of the highest US GSP utilisation rates among other US GSP beneficiaries  we use 85 percent. Therefore, it is time we see more new initiatives via the TIFA and are keen to strengthen the TIFA path. Having successfully concluded the inter-sessional meeting in September 2016 on 12th Joint Council Meeting (JCM) to adopt a five-year action plan, it is time to meet again.



Linscott responded, We are looking to move on from the past and create a special (trade) plan for Sri Lanka on the TIFA. A real example is using trade to increase economic growth. We too definitely want to see the TIFAs follow up on the progress achieved in Washington. I appreciate this frank exchange of ideas with the Industry and Commerce Ministry in my first visit to Sri Lanka.



The TIFA was signed in July 2002 in Washington D.C., to further enhance trade and economic relations between the two countries.



According to the Commerce Department of Sri Lanka, in the five period of 2012-16, Sri Lankas bilateral trade with the US surged by 43 percent from US $ 2.34 billion to US $ 3.34 billion. Even last year, Sri Lankas YoY bilateral trade with the US surged by 2.14 percent to US $ 3.34 billion from 2015s US $ 3.27 billion.
The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) said today it was not too optimistic about the Presidential Committee Report on SAITM on the basis that the report contradicted the committees recommendations.

It said the committee report contained grave errors and the GMOA had appointed its own committee to study the entire report of the presidential committee before arriving at a final decision.

GMOA Secretary Haritha Aluthge told a news conference the committee had concluded that SAITM had stopped student enrollment and therefore there is no reason why it repeats that recommendation.

Even though the committee says SAITM has stopped student enrollment, Dr Neville Fernando told a newspaper that he has accepted 300 more applications. GMOA had earlier requested the authorities to issue a legal order banning student enrolment until this matter is resolved, he said. (Thilanka Kanakarathna)

Video by Janaka
BY Asanga Abeyagoonasekera

The Village in the Jungle is different because its not about Us, but wholly about Them. It was very advanced in 1913, when many people in Europe were racist. -Nick Rankin

Rural Hambantota was once best known thanks to featuring in a book by Leonard Woolf in the early 20th century, and now, as a port shaping Sri Lankan politics. Woolfs The Village in the Jungle was the first novel in English literature to be written from an indigenous perspective rather than a colonisers.



According to the British author, Nick Rankin, It was a book about the white chaps at the club who run the show, but about those at the very bottom of the imperial heap, the black and brown fellows who dont even know theyre part of an Empire, but who just survive day by day, hand to mouth, as slash-and-burn agriculturalists.



If Woolf was alive today, he would probably be writing his second masterpiece, The Village that was Leased Out, Hambantota.



After Chinese President Xi Jinping launched the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Sri Lanka signed an agreement with China for one of the key strategic projects of this initiative in May 2017. The agreement was to lease out the Hambantota Port with a majority share to a Chinese company for three generations.



The BRI is the project of the century, according to Jinping. This trillion-dollar initiative aims to integrate Eurasia through the development of infrastructure. It is unquestionably the most ambitious project ever launched in recent times, which seeks to revisit and resurrect the Ming dynastys admiral Zheng Hes global legacy. A century ago, a British geopolitical thinker Sir Halford Mackinder argued that whoever controls the Eurasian heartland will control the world.



The US strategy looks further into Alfred Mahans maritime power; after World War II, George Kennan incorporated Mahans geostrategic focus on rim lands, rather than heartlands, to his Cold War strategy of containment of the Soviet Union to create a favourable balance of power.



As Washington rebalances to Asia, relations between the US and China have become increasingly contentious and zero-sum oriented. According to Wang Jisi, a Chinese foreign policy scholar, as Washington rebalances towards East Asia, China must avoid a head-on military confrontation with the US. Instead, it should fill in the gaps left by the US retreat from the Middle East. By doing so, China will be able to decisively influence regions free from a US-dominated security order or a pre-existing economic integration mechanism.



The BRI was a construct of Wang Jisis initial inputs and strategic thinking, to have a significant Chinese footprint in Eurasia, especially to recalibrate the existing world order. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2030 the US will no longer be the only superpower and China will be well placed among the many countries to become one of the big powers.



Sri Lanka, with its geostrategic position at the centre of the Maritime Silk Road, is a super-connector linking the east-west sea lanes. The Sri Lankan people should reap the benefits of the countrys participation in this initiative and it is important that all strategic projects in this regard are carefully calibrated.



However, the process of determining the content of the agreement has not been discussed in parliament, in consultation with think tanks or the public. As a democracy with its sovereignty vested in the people by the constitution, it is important to get inputs from as many quarters as possible when determining strategic projects for the country.



President Maithripala Sirisena pointed out that the debate should go to parliament, an argument which Minister Wijedasa Rajapaksa further expounded and this is absolutely correct. The failure of such public consultations has triggered much internal destabilisation; in the past, the hurried nature of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution  the Indo-Sri Lankan Accord  had triggered the southern insurrection.



China is Sri Lankas second largest trading partner, surpassing the US and just behind India. Sino-Lankan trade remains at more than US $ 3 billion. This position will change significantly with the Chinese economic zone and Hambantota ports full operationality. By 2025, China will become Sri Lankas largest trading partner due to the significant investments in the island.



In the geopolitical context, while global hegemon US is strengthening its ties with India, the regional hegemon, other South Asian countries are strengthening ties with China to counterbalance this. Indias role and Chinas aspirations in the Indian Ocean remain a topic of debate among scholars. India fears encirclement by China and China feels the same vis-a-vis the US.



Tensions at the lines of intersection are highest at geostrategic hotspots like Sri Lanka. The governments consideration to lease out the new Chinese-built Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) to India is a measure to counterbalance China. While India, the US and Japan will strengthen the rules-based order of the world, China will be the peace-loving explorer set on transforming the world on a self-proclaimed win-win basis.



In this strained geopolitical environment, Sri Lanka should design not a plan based on the process of leasing but rather chart a path within the interests of emergent and existing powers. It must seek to develop a value-added export basket to strengthen its economy.



(The views expressed here are personal and do not reflect those of the Government of Sri Lanka or Institute of National Security Studies Sri Lanka. Asanga Abeyagoonasekera is a visiting lecturer in international political economy (IPE) and Director General of INSSSL, the national security think tank of Sri Lanka. This article was initially published by the IPCS, New Delhi for Dateline Colombo -http://www.ipcs.org/article/india/sri-lanka-leveraging-the-politics-of-geography-a-href-5343.html)
Narratives of horror in Myanmars restive Rakhine State and the squalid refugee camps in Bangladesh where nearly 400,000 Rohingya refugees live in subhuman condition after being chased out by the Burmese Armys scorched earth campaign are distressing. Ethnic violence in Rakhine first erupted soon after Myanmars military junta relaxed its grip on political power in 2012. A social media post by rubble-rousing monk Ashin Wirathu about an alleged rape of a Buddhist woman by two Muslim youth precipitated an orgy of ethnic violence that engulfed the Rohingyas. Since then the community has been confined in military guarded internment camps, with no right of movement.



Myanmars military dictator Ne Win disenfranchised Rohingyas in 1982 under the new citizenship laws, effectively turning them into the worlds largest community of stateless people, with no recourse to jobs, education, healthcare and even to birth certificates. The latest military crackdown was launched after a series of simultaneous attacks by Rohingya militants who have recently been waging a low level insurgency. Now media reports indicate a heavy dose of radicalization in the refugee camps, with a disturbing potential of a local grievance being exploited by the global jihad.

On the surface, the problem has always been that most these states failed to accommodate the full scope of their demographic diversity



What is equally distressing is a pattern of events that have been witnessed in many parts of the world whenever a new country or one that had been under jackboots of an autocrat finally tried to define its own identity. Few new states emerged unscathed in their nation-building process; many were cannibalized by their own domestic forces. South Sudan, the worlds newest state was engulfed in a power struggle that pitted two main tribes (Dinka and Nuer) against each other and produced the first famine in the 21st century. Earlier, the Balkans fragmented into an ethnic inferno along the ethnic lines of former Yugoslavias many communities. Africas story of building inclusive nation states is abyssmal. Even where it managed to avoid the mass slaughter of Rwanda, Burundi, and Democratic Republic Congo, primary loyalties of the people were firmly placed with their tribe and the clan. At the British departure from the Subcontinent, India was born in the butchery of partition. Bangladesh followed suit two decades later.

On the surface, the problem has always been that most of these states failed to accommodate the full scope of their demographic diversity. While that is true to some, it is still only a partial explanation. The dynamics of competing interests and the national imperatives sometimes make the two irreconcilable. Americas founding fathers were willing to grant slave owning Southern states an effective veto through the electoral college, but Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru viewed extensive devolution demanded by Pakistans founder Ali Jinnah for Muslim provinces were inimical to Indias national interest -- in terms of both national security and the central planned economy that India adopted.

Those prejudices were perhaps in great deal inherent in the Burmese Buddhist discourse and also helped by an earlier Rohingya insurgency to secede from Myanmar to join Pakistan at its independence



Though there are plenty of leaders who have bungled the affairs of their nations, there are many others who were overpowered by virulent domestic factors, some of which they themselves helped unleash while others predated their political existence. Ms Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel laureate is a hostage of those competing ethnic interests that were unleashed long before she got her own freedom (and by any account, real power of the state is still with the generals). Those prejudices were perhaps in great deal inherent in the Burmese Buddhist discourse and also helped by an earlier Rohingya insurgency to secede from Myanmar to join Pakistan at its independence.



It is naive to assume that the leaders do not care for the cost of mismanagement of competing ethnic interests. If Jinnah did not anticipate the mass mayhem, he helped unleash, Ms Suu Kyi had first hand witnessed this regular pattern of slaughter happening elsewhere. However, virulence of those domestic forces is such that few leaders manage to rise above them.



In the 1960s, Samuel Huntington, writing about the failure in democratization in newly independent former colonies, observed a gap between the slow pace of building political institutions and the accelerated rate of enhanced political participation and social mobilization. The primary problem of politics is the lag in the development of political institutions behind social and economic change, he wrote. That political gap left the nascent political institutions and politics in general at the mercy of ethnic bidding, militant trade unionists, insurgents and coup detat.



This problem is understandable though. It took Britain 400 years since the Magna Carta to implement the universal suffrage. In the subcontinent, those were implemented barely fifty years ago before any form of serious political reforms were tried. And our part of the world was (and is) unparalleled not only in demographic diversity but also in inequality of social conditions. Equality of conditions had to be built. It is a far more complicated and often conflictual process than giving every man a vote.



Our politics thus quite predictably became hostage of a myriad ethnic forces. Sri Lankas gradual political decay since independence has much to do with that political gap, which became increasingly wide as the UNP itself split with S.W.R.D Bandaranaikes parting of ways to form the SLFP. With two main political parties vying for the majority Sinhalese vote, ethnic bidding became the political strategy. The upsurge of Sinhala Buddhist nationalism which was kicked into action by political calculations could not be abated once unleashed.
The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale will be in Sri Lanka from the 5th to 15th October and will be held at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC).



The event is supported by the Education Ministry of Sri Lanka. The launch event held to announce the entry of the sale to Sri Lanka was attended by Big Bad Wolf Books Founder and Managing Director Andrew Yap and ProRead Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd Local Director

Nishan Wasalathanthri.



The highlight of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale is that the sale will be open 24 hours a day, providing book enthusiasts the opportunity to shop non-stop for 11 consecutive days. This would mean 255 hours from the moment the sale opens its doors. Book lovers of all ages will get the opportunity to shop to their hearts content without having to worry about time. The mega book sale will also offer an array of amazing deals, which include significant discounts between 60 percent and 80 percent on brand-new, high-quality English language books that will be on sale to the public. The aim of a book sale of this scale and nature is to make good books available at an affordable price, allowing the general public to purchase books at the best prices. It will also contribute towards raising readership rates, increasing awareness on the value of books and improving English proficiency amongst

Sri Lankans.



The sale brings together a variety of books and collectibles under one roof, making them more accessible at unbeatable prices. It will include over 1.5 million books, covering 20,000 high-end English titles from various genres such as biographies, novels, non-fiction and fiction, literature, coffee table books, cookbooks, childrens books and educational books for children of all ages which are perfect for new parents and teachers and more. The sale will also be an ideal venue for limited edition and rare book collectors, whilst providing a space for suppliers of local bookshops, DVD and Blu-Ray movie stalls.



Sharing his thoughts, ProRead Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. Director Nishan Wasalathanthri opined: We are excited about the opportunities that the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale can offer avid Sri Lankan readers and parents. From the very beginning, we identified the need for a book sale of this nature in Sri Lanka, and we are positive that the visitors to the sale will be delighted with the choice of books available, as well as the many activities that we have lined up to encourage a more knowledge-sharing community.

Commenting on the introduction of the book sale into Sri Lanka, the Malaysian Partner of Big Bad Wolf Books Dipak Madhavan stated: As someone who deeply believes in the importance of developing skills in English, we decided to bring the Big Bad Wolf to Sri Lanka to provide everyone with an awe-inspiring experience. Its not just for readers but also for those who would like to come to a family-oriented event; so do drop by and explore what the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has to offer. The event will no doubt help book lovers, both young and old to expand their curiosity whilst sharing knowledge and will also get them to enjoy learning English in the process.



The very first Big Bad Wolf Book Sale was initiated in 2009 at Dataran Hamodal in Selangor, Malaysia. The concept proved a success and ever since then, the sale has grown considerably and expanded to neighbouring countries such as Indonesia and Thailand. Sri Lanka is the fourth country thus far to hold this mega book sale.
Recently, the Assamese filmmaker Kenny Basumatary was trying to procure screens in Delhi/NCR to release his latest, Local Kung Fu 2, an action comedy and the sequel to his 2013 cult classic Local Kung Fu.

Now Basumatary and Co represent indie cinema in every sense of the word - LKF 2 was crowdfunded, the cast and crew included friends and family and the entire thing (like its predecessor) had a lo-fi aesthetic, shot on a shoestring budget.

Naturally, multiplex owners were acting tough. They refused to commit to even one show per day to Basumatary, unless he could prove that he would have a certain number of people coming to watch his film. So that's exactly what the filmmaker did - a Facebook campaign was launched, asking fans to "confirm" their presence virtually, paying for tickets in advance, until the multiplex agreed.

Compare this to Mission China, the recent Zubeen Garg-starrer, which he also directed and produced. Made with the biggest budget ever for an Assamese-language film (Rs 2 crore), it has romped to a second week in Delhi's DT Saket, no mean feat for a film which doesn't even offer English or Hindi subtitles. Clearly, the business model is changing when it comes to commercial filmmaking in India. And we are not just talking about the Baahubalis of the world here. Actors such as Riteish Deshmukh and Priyanka Chopra are financing small, gritty, regional-language films every year. And these films are not just wowing critics but also earning serious money for their financers.

A big part of this is the phenomenon of "local stardom", ie, the kind of overwhelming star appeal enjoyed by say Ravi Kishan in Bihar or Mohanlal in Kerala. One has to see this to believe it, really. The case of Zubeen Garg offers similar insights. Garg is, by some distance, the most popular Assamese musician alive. He has also appeared in a handful of films, although he is not primarily recognised for acting or directing. His sometimes controversial words and actions, his larger-than-life persona and his legion of delirious fans, who still lose it in every concert - everybody who lives in Assam is familiar with these things.

It is ultimately this factor which makes Mission China's success (it has become the highest-grossing Assamese film of all time) very interesting indeed.

Consider the very first appearance of Garg in the film. Going in to the multiplex, most of us knew that Garg was playing a military-badass- with-a- dark-past in the movie, a Colonel Goswami. The first thing Colonel Goswami does onscreen is (drum-roll) pour himself a stiff glass o' Scotch, on the roof of his palatial home. Later in the film, Colonel Goswami berates a younger colleague by saying "Mod khaaye utpaat!" (Drunk and making a ruckus!).

One is stunned at how a new cult of Zubeen fans is on the rise, often misrepresenting his endeavours.

Now, the thing is this: Both these scenes drew loud, generous peals of laughter in DT Saket. And why? Because the list of drunken Zubeen Garg adventures in the popular Assamese consciousness is a long one. I don't mean to indict Garg here in the slightest - by all accounts, including a one-on- one interview I did with the man not too long ago, he is a far, far more sober person than he once was. His wife, who has co-produced the film and designed the brilliant costumes for Mission China, has been an extremely positive influence in Garg's life. Not to mention, she's an artist in her own right.

But fans have long memories, and the laughter I witnessed told me that at some level, Garg's fans haven't quite gotten over their memories of the young, hellraising pop star of yore. It is also interesting to note how an artist's rebellious sides are constantly consumed within the market space and outside it. In the 90s, his oeuvre of lyrics and music had a long queue of older people thoroughly grooving to his madness, for we all know there can be no art without madness.

The regional media has been largely responsible for the circulation of Zubeen's image and controversies. All of which from time to time like to tame his madness and institutionalise him into a figure of sacred perfection. One is stunned at how a new cult of Zubeen fans is on the rise, often misrepresenting his endeavours.

I myself recall one such incident in Guwahati when a rowdy youngster broke a chair, spat, and yelled on the Bihu field, because his specific requests were not being listened to. Similarly, the group of loud queues eagerly waiting for Mission China tickets hint at the shift in fan-artist equation.

Fans can act as a subculture sometimes, and are crucial for keeping the artist on his/her toes. But resorting to brainless fan pandering only leads to artistic decay, and I am worried because Garg's marvellous acting in former films such as Dinabandhu (2004) and Tumi Mur Mathu Mur (2000) really earned a lot of unconditional love from all generations.

Though I am not trying to fall back on the trap of nostalgia that seeks to glorify the past, I am perturbed by the fact that only a few wish to admit that fandom can be a struggle and not always transformative for art. As for filmmakers and their tryst, it will be tragic if their attempts only act as a divisive force amid several groups. All kinds of criticism only enrich and challenge any creative domain as opposed to the popular idea of a "negative" feedback.

In the words of Zubeen from Mission China, "Lagibo Dhoyjya" - "You cannot change the society by anger, you will need patience for that." In an otherwise incoherent plot, these lines are my essential takeaway from the film.

Older artists such as Bhupen Hazarika, when speaking of art had in multiple functions, mentioned that cultural waves never evolve under militant policing, but with collective understanding of its peoples.

This surely is the way forward, to not despair, but to keep raging towards artistic perfection.

Bit by bit, mistake after mistake, we will get there. Cinema from Assam (both commercial and alternative) is currently going through a tremendous flux. In an ideal scenario, Zubeen's hit ought to be a game-changer for many upcoming artists who might wish to make films but require funds for the same.
Editor's Note: This editorial was first published Aug. 22, 2012.

There is a scene in "It's a Wonderful Life" where it suddenly dawns on George Bailey just who will be responsible if all that is good and true in his hometown of Bedford Falls gives way to the squalor and corruption of Pottersville.

It is George himself, the president of the local savings and loan and the only person in town with enough clout and courage to face up to the corrupt Mr. Potter.

As everyone knows, George runs back to his family, saves his depositors from ruin and inspires the people of Bedford Falls to take back their town from Mr. Potter.

We've thought of that scene often this week as we mourn the loss of Nate Avery, Flagstaff's pediatric neurosurgeon who died unexpectedly at the age of 45 as a result of a fall at Lake Powell last week.

Avery grew up in Flagstaff, where there were few physicians doing brain surgery of any kind, much less on children.

He graduated from NAU and the medical school at the University of Arizona, then did a neurosurgery residency in Kentucky and received a prestigious fellowship to work in pediatric neurosurgery at the University of Utah.

At some point, Avery no doubt faced a choice of either taking his specialized medical skills to a top-flight hospital in a big city with all the latest technology -- or returning to his hometown to practice medicine. Choosing the latter would mean long hours on call as one of the few neurosurgeons in town and building a pediatric intensive care unit at FMC from the ground up.

He chose Flagstaff, and he did so, from all reports, with open eyes, a glad heart and a self-deprecating humor that put everyone around him at ease.

Indeed, for someone with such intimidating credentials and skills, Avery came across as an Average Joe who happened to do brain surgery in his day job. During his college summers, he worked as a rafting guide on the Colorado, and he often wondered aloud to friends how a "river rat" like him wound up doing brain surgery for a living.

But make no mistake about the impact that Nate Avery's choice had on Flagstaff. Visiting the memorial website, www.nateavery.info, that his family set up after his death is a wake-up call for anyone who doubts that one man's life can make a profound difference. In post after post, patients and friends recall a man unfailingly kind, upbeat and thoughtful who changed their lives -- even as he dealt with some of the most difficult and heart-wrenching cases medicine has to offer. There is nothing more painful to a parent than the inability to ease the suffering of their child, but in Nate Avery they found not only a doctor who would heal their loved one but a counselor to walk them calmly through those terrifying days.

Every single post on nateavery.info -- there are more than 300 -- is a variation on that same theme. Before he recruited a partner for his practice, the professional burden of caring alone for dozens of juvenile and adult patients suffering complex ailments of the brain and spine must have weighed heavily on him. But to his patients and friends, he was unfailingly considerate and a model of courage in the face of adversity.

They don't teach that in medical school. In fact, they don't teach that anywhere. Combine an inspirational bedside manner with hometown dedication and singularly unique skills, and the enormity of Flagstaff's loss comes into focus.

There is, of course, no guardian angel like Clarence to bring Nate Avery back to us. But now it's our turn to pay forward what Nate Avery gave us all, whether we are surgeons, carpenters, teachers or housekeepers.

-- If you think a job's important but no one else will do it, do it yourself.

-- Honor your roots and work for the common good.

-- Don't look back with regret and don't wallow in self-pity -- if the only pediatric brain surgeon in town can face each day with love and laughter and inspire the same in his patients, who are we to do any less?

-- Live each day as if it's your last but live it so that tomorrow is a better one for everyone you meet.

There is a famous courtroom balcony scene in "To Kill a Mockingbird" where the young girl, Scout, is reminded to stand as her father, the heroic Atticus Finch, passes by.

A half-century later, a variation on those words might serve as inspiration as we look to live up to another homegrown hero's legacy.

"Stand up, Flagstaff. The spirit of Nate Avery is passing by."
Visa requirements for United States citizens and non-citizen nationals are administrative entry restrictions by the authorities of other states placed on nationals of the United States.

As of 1 January 2017, holders of a United States passport could travel to 174 countries and territories visa-free or with visa on arrival, and the United States passport was ranked 3rd (tied with the Danish , Finnish , Italian and Spanish passports) in terms of travel freedom according to the Henley visa restrictions index . [1]

Visa requirements map [ edit ]

Visa requirements for holders of regular United States passports United States Visa free access Visa issued upon arrival Electronic authorization or online payment required / eVisa Both visa on arrival and eVisa available Visa required prior to arrival Visa requirements for holders of regular United States passports

Visa requirements [ edit ]

General visa requirements of sovereign countries towards United States citizens:

Dependent, Disputed, or Restricted territories [ edit ]

Visa requirements for United States citizens for visits to various territories, disputed areas, partially recognized countries not mentioned in the list above, and restricted zones:

Non-visa restrictions [ edit ]

Passport validity length [ edit ]

Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival. [601]

Countries requiring passports to be valid at least 6 months on arrival include Afghanistan , Algeria , Anguilla , Bahrain , Bhutan , Botswana , British Virgin Islands , Brunei , Cambodia , Cameroon , Cayman Islands , Central African Republic , Chad , Comoros , Cote d'Ivoire , Curacao , Ecuador , Egypt , El Salvador , Equatorial Guinea , Fiji , Gabon , Guinea Bissau , Guyana , Indonesia , Iran , Iraq (except when arriving at Basra and Erbil or Sulaimaniyah ), Israel , Jordan , Kenya , Kiribati , Laos , Madagascar , Malaysia , Marshall Islands , Micronesia , Myanmar , Namibia , Nicaragua , Nigeria , Oman , Palau , Papua New Guinea , Philippines , Qatar , Rwanda , Saint Lucia , Samoa , Saudi Arabia , Singapore , Solomon Islands , Somalia , Somaliland , Sri Lanka , Suriname , Taiwan , Tanzania , Thailand , Timor-Leste , Tokelau , Tonga , Tuvalu , Uganda , United Arab Emirates , Vanuatu , Venezuela , Vietnam , Yemen and Zimbabwe . [602]

Countries requiring passports valid for at least 4 months on arrival include Micronesia and Zambia .

Countries requiring passports valid for at least 3 months on arrival include European Union countries (except Denmark , Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom , and except for EU / EEA / Swiss citizens), Albania , Belarus , Georgia , Honduras , Iceland , Jordan , Kuwait , Lebanon , Liechtenstein , Moldova , Monaco , Nauru , Panama , Saint Barthelemy , San Marino , Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates .

Bermuda requires passports to be valid for at least 45 days upon entry.

Countries that require a passport validity of at least 1 month on arrival include Eritrea , Hong Kong , Macao , New Zealand and South Africa . [603]

Other countries require either a passport valid on arrival or a passport valid throughout the period of the intended stay.

Blank passport pages [ edit ]

Many countries require a minimum number of blank pages in traveler's passport, generally one or two pages. [604]

Vaccination [ edit ]

Many African countries, including Angola , Benin , Burkina Faso , Cameroon , Central African Republic , Chad , Democratic Republic of the Congo , Republic of the Congo , Cote d'Ivoire , Equatorial Guinea , Gabon , Ghana , Guinea , Liberia , Mali , Mauritania , Niger , Rwanda , Sao Tome and Principe , Senegal , Sierra Leone , Uganda , and Zambia require all incoming passengers to have a current International Certificate of Vaccination .

Some other countries require vaccination only if the passenger is coming from an infected area. [605]

Israeli stamps [ edit ]

Iran, [606] Kuwait, [607] Lebanon, [608] Libya, [609] Saudi Arabia, [610] Sudan, [611] Syria [612] and Yemen [613] do not allow entry to people with passport stamps from Israel or whose passports have either a used or an unused Israeli visa, or where there is evidence of previous travel to Israel such as entry or exit stamps from neighbouring border posts in transit countries such as Jordan and Egypt.

To circumvent this Arab League boycott of Israel , the Israeli immigration services have now mostly ceased to stamp foreign nationals' passports on either entry to or exit from Israel. Since 15 January 2013, Israel no longer stamps foreign passports at Ben Gurion Airport , giving passengers a card instead: "Since January 2013 a pilot scheme has been introduced whereby visitors are given an entry card instead of an entry stamp on arrival. You should keep this card with your passport until you leave. This is evidence of your legal entry into Israel and may be required, particularly at any crossing points into the Occupied Palestinian Territories." [614] Passports are still (as of 22 June 2017 ) stamped at Erez when travelling into and out of Gaza . Also, passports are still stamped (as of 22 June 2017 ) at the Jordan Valley/Sheikh Hussein and Yitzhak Rabin/Arava land borders with Jordan.

Armenian ethnicity [ edit ]

Due to a state of war existing between the Republic of Armenia and Azerbaijan , the government of Azerbaijan not only bans entry of citizens from Armenia, but also all citizens and nationals of any other country who are of Armenian descent , to the Republic of Azerbaijan [615][616] (although there have been exceptions, notably for Armenia's participation at the 2015 European Games held in Azerbaijan).

Azerbaijan also strictly bans any visit by foreign citizens to the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh[617] (the de facto independent Republic of Artsakh ), its surrounding territories and the Azerbaijani exclaves of Karki , Yuxar? ?skipara , Barxudarl? and Sofulu which are de jure part of Azerbaijan but under control of Armenia, without the prior consent of the government of Azerbaijan. Foreign citizens who enter these occupied territories, will be permanently banned from entering the Republic of Azerbaijan and will be included in their "list of personae non gratae ". [618]

Upon request, the Republic of Artsakh authorities may attach their visa and/or stamps to a separate piece of paper in order to avoid detection of travel to their country.

Persona non grata [ edit ]

The government of a country can declare a diplomat persona non grata , banning their entry into that country. In non-diplomatic use, the authorities of a country may also declare a foreigner persona non grata permanently or temporarily, usually because of unlawful activity. Attempts to enter the Gaza strip by sea may attract a 10-year ban on entering Israel . [619]

Passport card [ edit ]

The United States Passport Card can be used as an alternative to the booklet passport when travelling to and from Canada, Mexico , Bermuda and many Caribbean islands at sea ports-of-entry or land border crossings. [620]

APEC Travel Business Card [ edit ]

The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is meant to facilitate travel for U.S. citizens engaged in verified business in the APEC region. [621]

The U.S. ABTC will enable access to a dedicated fast-track lane for expedited immigration processing at participating foreign some APEC member airports. [622] U.S. APEC Business Travel Card holders may also use the Global Entry kiosks at participating airports upon their U.S. return. [623] But the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card cant be used in lieu of a visa to enter an APEC member country. Other countries APEC cards can be used in lieu of visas. But the U.S. has decided not to participate in the visa reciprocity part of the program because the government is unwilling to waive visa interviews. [624] Legislation authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to issue U.S. APEC Business Travel Cards only through Sept. 30, 2018, unless the law is amended to extend that date.

Consular protection of US citizens abroad [ edit ]

American diplomatic missions (in the year 2007), including embassies (blue), interests sections, and other representations (light blue) American diplomatic missions (in the year 2007), including embassies (blue), interests sections, and other representations (light blue)

The United States has the most diplomatic missions out of any country in the world.

See also List of diplomatic missions of the United States .

The Department of State regularly publishes travel warnings or travel alerts.
New Delhi: ONGC Videsh Ltd and its partners in Azerbaijan's giant ACG oil fields have agreed to pay USD 3.6 billion bonus to the Azeri government for extension of the field contract by 25 years to 2049.

Also, the partners will have their stake in the field trimmed as state-owned SOCAR raises its stake. OVL's share of the total bonus payments would be about USD 111 million and its stake will come down to 2.31 per cent from current 2.71 per cent, the company said in a statement.

The Azeri-Chirag-Deepwater Gunashli (ACG) complex in the Caspian Sea produces most of Azerbaijan's crude oil. The partners have "entered into an agreement with the Azerbaijan government and State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) for extension of duration of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for ACG oil fields until December 31, 2049," the statement said.

Oil production from the field has been dropping for some years now. It fell 11 per cent to 585,000 barrels per day in the first half of 2017 despite the startup of a new platform in 2014 at a cost of USD 6 billion.

While the extension of the production sharing contract, which was to expire in 2024, was necessary to ensure continued investment, SOCAR will see its stake in ACG rise from 11.6 per cent to 25 per cent.

As a result, BP of UK will see its stake cut from current 35.8 per cent to 30.37 per cent. Chevron will see its stake trim from 11.3 per cent to 9.57 per cent while Japan's INPEX will have 9.31 per cent as against 11 per cent previously.

Norway's Statoil will have 7.27 per cent stake (8.6 per cent previously), ExxonMobil 6.79 per cent (8 per cent), Turkey's TPAO 5.73 per cent (6.8 per cent) and Japan's ITOCHU 3.65 per cent (4.3 per cent).

"The agreement is subject to ratification by the Parliament (Milli Majlis) of the Republic of Azerbaijan," the statement said. As part of the agreement, the international co-venturers will pay a bonus of USD 3.6 billion to the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and SOCAR will increase its equity share in the ACG from 11.65 per cent to 25 per cent.

"OVL's share of the total bonus payments is about USD 111 million," it said.

The ACG oil fields are located in the Caspian Sea, about 100 kilometres east of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

The fields currently produce 585,000 barrels per day of oil, which is transported through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline to Ceyhan on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, from where it is shipped to customers.

The existing production sharing agreement (PSA) for ACG was signed on September 20, 1994 for 30 years. "There is substantial amount of remaining oil and gas in the field and the PSA extension will benefit Azerbaijan and partners through sustained long term production," it said.

OVL, the overseas arm of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC), had acquired 2.7213 per cent interest in the ACG and 2.36 per cent in 1,768-km BTC pipeline from Hess Corporation on March 28, 2013 for USD 1 billion.

The BP-operated field at that time was producing around 700,000 barrels a day (35 million tonnes per annum) of crude oil. OVL's share of output was over 19,000 barrels a day or a little less than one million tonnes per annum.

At the reduced production and stake, OVL's share would be about USD 13,500 barrels per day.
New Delhi: Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday again warned of demonetisation and "hasty" implementation of GST adversely impacting GDP growth.

Singh, who had previously cautioned against note ban shaving off 2 per cent of GDP, said demonetisation of 86 per cent of the currency in circulation and the hasty implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have impacted informal and small scale sectors, which account of about 40 per cent of the USD 2.5-trillion economy.

"Both demonetisation and the GST have had some impact (on GDP growth)," he said. "Both would affect the informal sector, the small scale sector... the sectors today are responsible for 40 per cent of GDP." Ninety per cent of India's employment is in the informal sector, he told CNBC-TV 18.

"And the withdrawal of 86 per cent of currency plus also GST, because it has been put on practice in haste, there are lots of glitches which are now coming out. These are bond to affect the GDP growth adversely," he remarked.

On November 25 last year, some two weeks after old 500 and 1,000 rupee notes were junked, Singh had in his Parliament speech termed demonetisation a "monumental mismanagement", "organised loot" and "legalised plunder" which would cause GDP growth to fall by 2 per cent.

GDP growth in the first quarter of current fiscal slumped to a three-year low of 5.7 per cent, down from 7.9 per cent in April-June quarter of 2016. In January-March quarter, the growth declined to 6.1 per cent from 8 per cent in the year-

ago quarter. The government had blamed de-stocking ahead of the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from July 1 as the primary reason for the fall in the GDP growth rate.

GST unified more than a dozen central and state levies like excise duty, service tax and VAT, but its implementation has seen technical glitches with the registration and tax filing portal, forcing the government to postpone return

deadlines.

In April, when the supporting GST bill was passed in Parliament, the former prime minister had hailed it as a "game-changer" while cautioning against the difficulties in its implementation. On August 30, the Reserve Bank of India said nearly 99 per cent of the Rs 15.44 lakh crore junked currency had returned to the banking system, raising questions on the efficacy of the government's note ban decision that was aimed at curbing corruption and black money.
Tim Kreifels left his 16-year job as a caseworker at Tecumseh State Correctional Institution in February, but he stays in touch with friends that still work there.

Twelve-hour shifts and mandatory overtime for corrections officers and other protective services staff had been required since the May 2015 riot. But as vacancies at the prison increase, Kreifels said, he's concerned for his friends who are working more frequent 16-hour days.

That doesn't leave much leeway for workers who have family responsibilities or other needs for personal time. When he left, he said, a lot of employees were unhappy.

"Everybody was complaining, I mean everybody," he said.

In his annual report, Inspector General for Corrections Doug Koebernick, who is charged with assisting in improving operations of the prisons, said staff overtime, vacancies and turnover are major concerns.

Nebraska has the second-most crowded prison system in the country -- behind Alabama -- with a population reaching 162 percent of design capacity. Seven of 10 prisons individually stretch beyond that mark, with one at 294 percent of capacity.

The inability to properly staff the crowded prisons only contributes to stress and safety concerns felt by staff, inmates, families and administrators, Koebernick said.

The average collective overtime hours for protective service workers throughout Nebraska's prisons increased from 22,056 hours a month in 2014 to 31,838 a month during 2016, a 44 percent increase, Koebernick's report said. During the first half of 2017, it was an average of 33,202 hours, up 50.5 percent from 2014.

The money spent on overtime pay jumped to $9.3 million in 2016-17, up in six years from $3.3 million.

"Probably the biggest thing that I hear from people is that they're just worn out and tired, and that it just keeps going, that there's no end in sight," he said.

"I give the workers so much credit for going to work every day in really difficult circumstances and trying to do their best to help people."

The two prisons with the most significant overtime use, Koebernick said, were Tecumseh and the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln.

Thirty employees had the distinction of working the most overtime, ranging from an extra 966 hours in a year to an extra 2,889 hours, or an average of 90 hours per week.

High overtime can lead to low morale, burnout, complacency and fatigue, he said, and mistakes.

High numbers of vacancies, which as of June 30 were 292 department-wide, are also concentrated at Tecumseh and the penitentiary.

"If it was spread out, it might not be so alarming," Koebernick said. "But when you have that at the two facilities where you need staffing the most, that should be a cause of concern."

On top of that, a staffing analysis last year showed the prisons needed 138 more protective services employees. Combining that with the number of vacancies, it shows how understaffed the prisons are.

And there are other positions the department hasn't analyzed -- recreation aides, kitchen workers, maintenance workers -- that are needed, he said.

The department is bringing in workers from Omaha prisons to Tecumseh this month to work a couple of shifts a week to provide relief for Tecumseh staff.

A recent email from the department's human talent director said the Omaha Correctional Center and Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility were providing 10 staff daily to work there.

"Even with these staff members," said Erinn Criner, "we will still need additional volunteers for overtime to avoid mandatory overtime."

Koebernick described the situation as a "downward spiral."

Turnover has also increased in the past six years. In 2016, the agencywide turnover rate was at 25 percent, and more than 25 percent in six of 10 prisons. At the Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility, the rate was more than 38 percent.

At Tecumseh, in June and July, 29 corrections officers or corporals left their jobs, Koebernick said. Twenty-three of them had worked 12 months or less. And 16 of the 29 left without providing two weeks' notice.

Corrections Director Scott Frakes said the majority of states have the same challenges in retaining Corrections staff. The struggle to fill positions and retain employees becomes greater when the work is specialized and includes inherent risk, he said.

A recent survey of state corrections departments by the Association of State Correctional Administrators showed that of the 37 states who responded, 83 percent of them reported challenges retaining correctional officers.

"Vacancies drive overtime and overtime drives vacancies," Frakes said. "We are working to address that, but it is a difficult time to hire and retain people in any business today given the state's low unemployment rate."

It's tough work, but Corrections teams establish bonds, and it's a fulfilling career, he said.

My team is actively recruiting talented staff members. Retention is a key priority and a consideration of daily importance, he said.

Frakes said he and his team would review the report carefully and consider Koebernick's recommendations as they make decisions and continue to move the agency forward.

Koebernick last year recommended changes to salary proposals that result in longevity pay or a tiered merit pay system. In this year's report he made 22 recommendations, including these:

Consider directing front-line recruiting efforts at correctional employees in Kansas and Missouri, which have lower rates of pay for those positions;

Present a recommendation to the governor and Legislature on the need to request retention and recruitment funding;

Request a review of the wage scale for mental health and substance abuse staff;

Study providing gender specific training and ongoing supports to female staff.
Mumbai: Like Aadhaar, the 12-digit biotmetric based identity issued compulsorily to every Indians, the government is planning to make PAN, a 10-digit alpha numeric number, mandatory for businesses and non-governmental organisations, a report in The Times of India said.

The report adds citing some unidentified sources telling TOI that for the purpose Corporate Ministry has backed amendments to the Income Tax Act. MCA has also supported some changes made in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to make PAN compulsory for identified entities.

As part of its massive crackdown on black money, tax evasion, unaccounted wealth, counterfeiting and unhinged political funding, the government has taken a slew of measures to stop recurrence of these illegal activities. It has also mandated linking of Aadhaar with PAN a compulsory exercise, which will lead to cancellation of PANs if holders fail to link both the crucial documents.

The government also wants to set up a mechanism under which it can make any entity that has a cumulative annual transactions of over Rs 2 lakh to comply with law. Tax authorities have already issues PAN cards to many companies, businesses, trusts and individuals. So far, the I-T department has allotted more than 25 crore PAN cards in the country, a number which is 20 per cent of India's 125 crore population.

Through the new stricture, tax authorities want to keep track of individuals who are directors or promoters of companies and discourage them from holding or owning benami properties.
New Delhi: Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday again hit out at the BJP government saying that demonetisation and hasty implementation of GST will adversely impact the economic growth.

Both demonetisation and the GST have had some impact (on GDP growth), he told a business news channel. He noted that both measures would affect the informal sector and the small scale sector.

The sectors today are responsible for 40 per cent of GDP. Ninety per cent of Indias employment is in the informal sector, he said.

The withdrawal of 86 per cent of currency plus also GST, because it has been put on practice in haste, there are a lot of glitches which are now coming out. These are bound to affect the GDP growth adversely, added Dr Singh.

Dr Singh had called note ban a monumental mismanagement, org-anised loot and legalis-ed plunder which would cause GDP growth to fall by two per cent.
Mumbai: After creating ripples in domestic and international market, Sridevi starrer 'Mom' that released in India on 7th July, 2017 is now all set for a release in Russia, Poland and Czech Republic, all three unconventional territories for a Bollywood film release. Under the distribution of Zee Studios International, the film is set to release in mid-October under the screen count of 21 screens in Russia, 9 screens in Poland and 3 screens in Czech. To appeal to the local audience, the movie is also being dubbed in Russian language.

'Mom' marked the debut of director Ravi Udyawar. The critics and audience alike praised the film for its gripping drama and superlative performances. In India, apart from Hindi, it was released in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.

The film has already collected 6 million USD in India and 2.2 million USD across the conventional markets like USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, UAE/GCC, Pakistan and rest of the world.

With the kind of appreciation we have received for Mom across the world, we are pretty sure the audiences in Russia, Czech and Poland will give us a positive response. The film has a very strong message applicable universally, coupled with Sridevi's acting has made the film what it is. We are looking forward to releasing the film there and expanding our audience base," producer Boney Kapoor said in a statement.
Mumbai: Sushant Singh Rajput launches Sushant4Education programme for the students.

The Bollywood actor who had dropped out of engineering college to pursue his acting aspirations, stresses on the importance of education.

He recently launched a programme named Sushant4Education, as a part of efforts to help young students.

With this programme, Sushant hopes to actuate the strong sense of learning in young minds as he firmly believes in the power of education towards a prosperity of the nation. Among multiple initiatives under the programme one is to provide counsellors to the schools in helping young students to make a right choice of career based on their strengths and aptitude.

Sources have mentioned that despite his busy schedule Sushant will be personally meeting school principals and selecting trained counsellors for this very purpose. These counsellors would be visiting schools on a weekly basis. In fact, these sessions have already begun in two schools (St Elias High School and SS Sahney High School).

Sources added, When Sushant announced this initiative on his social media platforms, over a hundred applications from counsellors came in. Sushant has already shortlisted two counsellors who have started visiting schools from this month. He will be meeting the school principals and counselors to select candidates himself for this programme. Next on the agenda is also installing projectors in certain schools, to make subjects more interactive, by bringing in the visual medium and make learning fun. Majority of the kids from these schools are first generation learners. The idea was to ensure that students are well informed about different kinds of career avenues that lie before them so that they can make the right choices according to their aptitude."

Sushant said, "My mother always taught me that we educate our children not to become a doctor or engineer, but the impact of education reflects on their thought process and decision making. This is a very small step and it will give kids a new excitement and encouragement.
Nantha, the director of Anu Hasans comeback movie Valla Desam, seems like a man with many plans. In a chat with us, the director reveals about the film, his other female-centric projects, an English project that he will begin in 2018 and more.

Talking about Valla Desam, he says, In our society, there is still this wrong notion that women after marriage should spend taking care of the children and the home. So, we wanted to show what their real potential is with this movie.

When asked about the good phase that Tamil cinema is going through, where many female-centric films are being made, he opines, It is happy to see things slowly changing. But the question is how much the makers trust the female lead? In Valla Desam, we have put our complete trust to Anu Hasan. So, the kind of role and importance to the female lead also matters.

The film was majorly shot in London and only 30 per cent was shot in Chennai. It had a preview show in London as well. Nantha says it was well-received there  Many, after watching the film, said it was like a big budget Hollywood production.

But it was not! The film was made in small budget only. Even Kamal sir at the audio launch said the same.

Nantha also has bigger plans for future  I have got another woman-centric film, and will soon plan the cast once Valla Desam is out. Also, in 2018, I have plans to start an English film which will have a popular Hollywood actor in the lead. He has acted in films like Mission Impossible, Mummy, and Harry Potter series. He is a friend of mine, but before its official, I dont want to reveal the name.
Dileep is one of the most popular actors in Mollywood.

Kochi: The Angamali magistrate court on Monday rejected the bail plea of Malayalam actor Dileep in the alleged assault and abduction case of a popular south actress earlier this year.

Previously, his bail plea has been rejected three times by the court, following his arrest in the case in July.

The decision comes after the court had reserved its orders on his plea and extended the actors custody till September 28.

Dileeps wife, actress Kavya Madhavan had also filed an anticipatory bail application in the court, amid reports that she will also be arrested for investigation in the case.

Dileep is accused of conspiracy in the abduction and alleged sexual assault of a prominent South actress in a car on February 17.
Balancing studies and work can be a challenge. More so, if your job requires you to be a part of exhaustingly long schedules with odd working hours. But an increasing number of young Tollywood actresses are successfully juggling their education and shoots, making one wonder how they manage it.

I have been doing this since the last couple of years. While it has been fantastic so far, I would be lying if I say I dont feel the pressure to ace everything, now more than ever. But I think Ill do fine and this is how I like it, shares 20-year-old Malvika Nair, who is pursuing a BA in Arts, Literature, History and Political Science in Hyderabad.

Malvika Nair

Concurring with Malvikas words, 21-year-old Kruthika Jayakumar says, At times, it can be difficult to strike a balance. You want to do well in both but theres a sense of worry. I think the reason I am completing my graduation is that my parents were always particular that I shouldnt neglect studies at any cost. While I resisted initially, now I see the point. Kruthika is currently studying journalism in Bengaluru.

Malvika Nair

Even though this makes life tougher, and ones love for films and desire to study could clash, its all about a healthy mix, asserts Nivetha Thomas. I was always particular about doing films only during vacations. When-ever I was approached for a role, I made it clear that nothing could hamper my academics, says the 21-year-old actress, adding that she has always received support from all quarters in this regard.

Malvika Nair

While juggling is one thing, it is scary to think how these young girls deal with situations where shoot schedules clash with exams! That happens all the time, reveal Kruthika and Malvika.

Whenever I was appro-ached for a role, I made it clear that nothing could hamper my academics

The latter explains, Apart from being, almost always, the youngest person on the sets, people seem to find it peculiar that I bring books to the sets and study when my acting career is just fine! Over time, I learnt not to internalise peoples opinions on my life and career which has made me a lot happier. Also, the productions I have worked with have been extremely understanding of my exam schedules and it always worked out.

Keeping so busy, do they miss out on experiences that most young girls their age have? To be honest, I have missed important ceremonies in college and did feel bad about it. It often happens that I cant take part in fun activities. However, luckily for me, my friends always made me feel included and even when I miss out on something, they make it up to me in some way or the other, shares Kruthika.

I dont think I missed out on anything as far as college is concerned but school was different. I missed having long-term friends. For the most part, I felt like an outsider except for the occasional lovely company I had, adds Malvika. Most of my peers are, naturally, not exposed to the workings of the industry and hence seem unable to comprehend my line of work. Having said that, people who want to stay in your life make an effort and appreciate what youre doing and stand by you, she elaborates.

However, if theres one common thing all these young talents share, it is the support from their educational institutions. Narrating her experience, Kruthika says: I remember several instances when my teachers went out of their way to make my life easier. While I wasnt excused from work, tea-chers tried to make things easier for me when I wasnt in class. Malvika adds, Teachers have unanimously been supportive of whatever I choose to do but they are also concerned, out of goodwill, about my academics with a few of them even going out of their way to help me.

Despite receiving support from their families, friends and institutions, sustaining and striking the work-study balance is no easy feat, and, is no less than a superpower.
Epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer affects the tissue covering the ovary or lining of the fallopian tube or abdominal wall. (Representational Image)

A European Medicines Agency (EMA) panel recommended the approval of Tesaro Incs key drug, niraparib, for the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer.

The recommendation comes months after the drugs approval and launch in the United States, where it is sold at a list price of $9,833 for a one-month supply and is marketed as Zejula.

The list price of a drug is not necessarily what patients actually pay. Their out-of-pocket cost is based on their individual healthcare insurance plans and duration of treatment.

Epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer affects the tissue covering the ovary or lining of the fallopian tube or abdominal wall.

Niraparib kills cancer cells by inhibiting the production of proteins called poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP), which helps repair damaged DNA strands, thereby hastening the death of some types of cancer cells.

Effective PARP inhibitors are sought after by drugmakers because of their potential to be used in combination with other types of cancer treatments to create new breakthrough treatments.
More young people across the world have started getting adventurous in bed with increasing awareness about sexuality and more access to related information. While its always great to go a step ahead for enhancing the experience between the sheets, one should always be careful not to go too far.

A couple from a Alabama in US ended up in a hospital after their attempts at taking sex to another level resulted in a shocking accident. Samantha Irving had to call an ambulance as her husbands head was stuck in her vaginal cavity causing excruciating pain whenever he moved.

One of the paramedics who helped the couple out of their ordeal said the man was also struggling as he had half of his face buried in his wifes vagina. The couple was finally separated and while the man suffered few scratches and bruises, the woman is said to be stable despite internal bleeding.

But this isnt the first such case the doctors at the hospital encountered as they said a couple with a similar situation was hospitalised in 2007. They advised people to stay away from extreme sexual behaviour.
Sikar: Atrocities against school children continue unabated, as yet another shocking incident is reported from Sikar in Rajasthan.

An 18-year-old student was allegedly raped by the school director and a teacher in Rajasthan's Sikar district, the police said on Monday.

The victim's parents in their complaint alleged that the two had been sexually assaulting her for some days after calling her to school on the pretext of extra classes.

When she became pregnant, the duo allegedly made her undergo an abortion at a clinic in Shahpura town, circle officer, Neem Ka Thana, Kushal Singh said.

The matter came to light after the teenager's health deteriorated post abortion.

The student is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Jaipur, he added.

Following the complaint, school director Jagdish Yadav and teacher Jagat Singh Gurjar were booked on gangrape charge and getting abortion done without a woman's consent.

A case was also registered against Dr Rajnish Sharma and his wife Kanan for carrying out illegal abortion and destroying evidence, police said.

"The victim is unconscious and undergoing treatment. We are yet to register her statement.We have constituted teams to nab the accused at the earliest.A case has been registered against the four persons," SHO, Ajeetgarh, Manglaram Ola said.

The incident comes in less than two weeks when a 7-year-old boy, Pradyuman Thakur, of Ryan International School, Bhondsi, was found in a pool of blood inside the toilet of the school. He was bleeding profusely.

Pradyuman, student of Class 2, was immediately rushed to a private hospital where doctors declared him brought dead. A knife has been recovered from the scene of the crime.

School bus conductor Ashok, arrested for the murder of Pradyuman, allegedly attempted to sexually assault the boy and killed him when he raised an alarm.

With inputs from PTI.
A team of police officers from the city, headed by an inspector, reportedly raided the office of the chief qazi, took him into custody, and seized the records. (Representational image)

Hyderabad: Fareed Ahmed Khan, the chief qazi of Mumbai, was taken into custody on Monday evening in relation to the case of Omani national Al-Rahbi Ahmed Abdullah who married a minor girl from the Old City five months ago.

The police, while investigating the case, discovered that Fareed had issued the marriage certificate on the basis of which the Omani national was able to obtain a visa for the girl and subsequently took her to Muscat.

Abdullah had married the 16-year-old girl on the outskirts of the city. Because it is difficult for a foreign national to be issued a marriage certificate locally, the certificate had been arranged from Mumbai.

Fareed issued the certificate and he has admitted to it, said an official involved in the investigation.

A team of police officers from the city, headed by an inspector, reportedly raided the office of the chief qazi, took him into custody, and seized the records.

On examining the records, we found that the qazi had issued certificates to several foreign nat-ionals, especially people from Gulf countries. He issued certificates for marriages performed in Odisha, Karnataka and other states, said the official.

The qazi has reportedly collected several lakhs of rupees by working in collusion with brokers for the facilitation of contract marriages. He charged lakhs of rupees for issuing marriage certificates, said the police. Teams are continuing to conduct searches at the residencies of persons suspected to be involved in contract marriage rackets.

Raids are being carried out at lodges and hotels in the city to nab foreign nationals who have come to the city for such marriages.
The Thane police on Monday evening arrested gangster Dawood Ibrahims brother Iqbal Kaskar (yellow T-shirt) in connection with an extortion case.

Mumbai: The Thane City police detained fugitive underworld gangster Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar on Monday night allegedly on charges of extortion from a property developer.

The police's anti extortion cell (AEC), headed by recently inducted and former encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma, picked up Kaskar from south Mumbai along with some of his aides. The case was registered with the Kasarvadavali police station by the developer recently.

The project is coming up on Ghodbunder Road. Preliminary reports revealed that Kaskar came on police's radar after the property developer lodged a complaint of him demanding more.

As per the complaint Kaskar has already taken four flats in an upcoming project in Thane and was asking for more.

This irked the builder, said a police officer requesting anonymity. The police is questioning Kaskar and are looking for more of his associates who are stated to have been involved.

The process of placing him under the arrest is yet to be completed and police teams have been sent out to look for more accused persons.

The project and developer is of Thane and nothing more can be revealed at this moment as the prove is still on and more arrests are likely to take place soon, added the officer.

The Mumbai police last arrested Kaskar in an extortion case in 2015. The arrest was made following a complaint filed by one Salim Sheikh. Kaskar was later granted bail on a security amount of Rs 50,000.

It was alleged then that Kaskar and his men had demanded extortion of Rs 3 lakh after assaulting him.

He was questioned at the JJ Marg Police Station for over four hours before being arrested. Shaikh, a resident of Byculla, had approached the local police after being threatened by Kaskar.
Sidelined AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran said that M K Stalin led DMK was their 'primary rival'. (Photo: PTI)

Chennai: Sidelined AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran on Friday launched a fresh attack on his rival, Chief Minister K Palanisamy and vowed to "end this rule of betrayal" within a week.

The 'sacked' party deputy chief also ruled out his faction having any direct or indirect pact with M K Stalin-led DMK, saying that party "is our primary rival."

Speaking to reporters in Chennai, the combative leader also alleged that Palanisamy had tried to "adopt short-cut" method of facing a floor test of his government on Monday by disqualifying 18 MLAs supporting him.

"The short-cut adopted by Palanisamy is, he tried to have the floor test by Monday (apparently September 18) after disqualification (of his supporting MLAs)," he alleged. By doing so, Palanisamy may not require to garner the required support of 117 MLAs to win the trust vote, he said.

In the 234-member state Assembly, AIADMK has 134 MLAs including the Speaker. The RK Nagar seat is vacant following the death of then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa last year.

The Madras High Court had on Thursday directed that no floor test be held in the state Assembly till September 20. Following the revolt of 19 party MLAs against Palanisamy, they were all initially put up at a resort in Puducherry. They later shifted to a resort in Coorg in Karnataka and are since staying there.

One of them shifted camps to support Palanisamy later.

Dhinakaran also slammed Palanisamy for "aligning" with former rebel leader O Panneerselvam, now Deputy Chief Minister.

Dhinakaran has escalated his attack against Palanisamy since the August 21 merger of the two camps.

"There is no history of adharma and betrayal having triumphed. In one week we will end this rule of betrayal in the Assembly," he said, apparently indicating at a possible floor test of the government.

Dhinakaran claimed 21 AIADMK MLAs were now against the chief minister and wanted his removal, a demand raised with the Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao.

"The Governor delayed (on directing floor test), but DMK won't keep quiet. They want elections to happen and so they moved the court (for floor test)," he said.

The DMK, which has more than once petitioned Rao to direct the Palanisamy government to prove its numbers, had moved the court on the matter recently.

On his rival AIADMK camp's criticism that he has joined hands with DMK in his tussle against Palanisamy, Dhinakaran said "there is no direct or indirect alliance with that party."

"I repeatedly say that DMK is our primary rival. There is no direct or indirect alliance with that party," he asserted.

His faction had moved the court against a possible disqualification of its MLAs after "sensing" such possible action," from Speaker P Dhanapal, he said.

"You should question me if only I align with DMK after this government goes," he said.

Palanisamy, who had "betrayed" AIADMK chief VK Sasikala, will not be "forgiven" by God, Dhinakaran said.

He also faulted the Chief Minister for convening the party General Council to remove her as interim general secretary.

Dhinakaran had earlier dismissed the September 12 General Council as a "public meeting", saying the court could have the final say on the matter.
The Centre said some Rohingyas were indulging in illegal /anti national activities i.e. mobilisation of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake Indian identities for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking. (Photo: AP)

New Delhi: The Centre on Monday filed affidavit in the Supreme Court over the Rohingya matter.

The apex court said that it will now hear the matter on 3 October at 2 pm.

In its affidavit to the apex court, the Centre said the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continuous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The Centre's affidavit, filed in the Supreme Court Registry, said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

Earlier on Monday, a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, that the reply would be filed later on Monday and fixed the PIL challenging the deportation of Rohingyas for hearing on October 3.

"As evident from the constitutional guarantee flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution, the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as well as right to move freely throughout the territory of India is available only to the citizens of India... No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this Court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general...," the affidavit filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The Centre said the Rohingya refugees were illegals and their continuous stay pose a grave security threat.

"It is submitted that continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats," it said.

In its affidavit to the apex court, the Centre said, "The total number of such illegal immigrants into our country would be more than 40,000 approximately as on date."

It said, "As far as Rohingyas are concerned they claimed to have entered from Myanmar using porous border between India and Myanmar."

The Centre said that it has contemporaneous from security agencies inputs indicating links of some unauthorised Rohingyas with Pakistan terror organisations.

The Centre said some Rohingyas were indulging in illegal /anti national activities i.e. mobilisation of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake Indian identities for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking.

The government said it may file in sealed cover the details of the security threats and inputs gathered by the various security agencies in this matter.

The Centre said that since India is not a signatory to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, the obligations concerned to non-refoulement is not applicable.

"That the provisions of Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951 and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1967 cannot be relied upon by the petitioner since India is not a signatory of either of them. It is respectfully submitted that the obligation concerning the prohibition of return/non-refoulement is a codified provision under the provisions of 1951 Convention referred to above.

"It is submitted that this obligation is binding only in respect of the States which are parties to the Convention. Since India is not a party to the said Convention, or the said Protocol, the obligations contained therein are not applicable

to India," it said.

The bench, also comprising Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.

The plea, filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR), claimed they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The violent attacks allegedly by Myanmarese armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, were settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

The plea said that India has ratified and is a signatory to various conventions that recognise the Principle of "Non-Refoulement', which prohibits deportation of refugees to a country where they may face threat to their lives. The government has recently raised "serious concern" over reports of renewed violence and attacks in Myanmar and extended its "strong" support to the Myanmarese government at this "challenging moment".

With inputs from PTI.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the members of the District Bar Association of Gurgaon not to obstruct in any manner the proceedings going on before a special judge there relating to the murder of a 7-year-old student in the Ryan International school.

The apex court was informed by the bar body that they have withdrawn their earlier resolution in which they had said that no lawyer will represent any of the accused in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra observed that an accused has the right to be represented by an advocate and the bar was under an obligation not to obstruct any lawyer from appearing on behalf of an accused.

"We must say without any hesitation that any accused, whatever the offence maybe, has a right to be represented by an advocate. The tradition of bar does not authorise any bar association to pass a resolution like this.

"However, the solace is realising the fault. The bar association has withdrawn it (resolution)," the bench, also comprising Justice AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud, said.

The bench was hearing a plea filed by Francis Thomas, the northern zone head of Ryan Group, seeking transfer of the student murder case from the local court at Sohna, alleging that the bar has restrained lawyers from representing the accused in the sensational case. Thomas was arrested in connection with the case.

During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Sandeep Kapur, appearing for Thomas, told the bench there was "hostile atmosphere" at the Sohna court and no lawyer was appearing for the accused in the case.

Class 2 student Pradyuman was found with his throat slit on the morning of September 8 in the toilet of the Ryan International School in Gurgaon.

Police allege that 42-year-old bus conductor Ashok Kumar killed him with a knife after the boy resisted an attempt to sodomise him.
Chennai: The MLAs of TTV Dhinakaran faction of the AIADMK seem to be under severe heat from the Tamil Nadu police. On Monday, a team from the Central Crime Branch of the city police registered a cheating case against Karur MLA Senthil Balaji, former state transport minister, and launched a hunt for him in Kodagu district, where the now disqualified MLAs are reportedly holed up.

Less than a week ago, the CB-CID of the state police named former higher education minister, P. Palaniappan, an MLA from Pappireddipatti, as a suspect in the suicide of a Namakkal-based contractor four months ago. City police sources said that the case against Senthil Balaji pertains to an allegation that the former transport minister had collected Rs 2.5 crore from over 40 persons through his men, promising them jobs in the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) in the state.

CCB registered a case based on a complaint by V. Ganesh Kumar of Ambattur, according to which, an amount of Rs 95 lakh was paid to the MLA through his relatives in 2014-15 at his residence in RA Puram.

The complainant further claimed that he was threatened by his relatives when he demanded to return the money. A CCB team has camped in Kodagu district and is on the lookout for the MLA who is said to have escaped from the resort where they were holed up. His relatives Prabhu, Sahaya Rajan and Anna Raj were also included in the case.

Police officers deny that the MLAs of TTV faction are being framed as a means of political bullying. There is no pressure on us. We are going by evidences available, a police officer said.
Chennai: Shakul Hammed, a 25-year-old youth from Chennai who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), had been under the scanner of the central agency for more than two years now. He was picked up from his residence in the city at around 2 30 pm.

A resident of SS Puram in Otteri near Perambur, Shakul Hammed has a bacherlors degree in business administration from a City college and dropped out of MBA in 2014. It is during this time, Shakul Hammed is said to have involved with persons in the state who vowed to join the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

His father Mohammed Zackariya who is a tailor had filed a missing complaint with the local police after Shakul Hammed went absconding for a long time, according to police sources. After his arrest on Monday, his family members cried foul and claimed that he had returned recently after a work-related trip from Dubai.

Shakul Hammeds arrest is based on inputs provided by Khaja Mohideen of Cuddalore district who is also among the nine persons the NIA accused of being deported from Turkey in 2015 when they attempted to migrate to the ISIS controlled territory in Syria.

Khaja Moideen, now lodged in Salem prison, is believed to have masterminded the murder of KP Suresh Kumar, a Hindu Munnani activist, in 2014 in Chennai. NIA officials are planning to seek custody of Khaja Moideen for further investigations.

Khaja Moideen and Shakul Hammed were among the people who met Haja Fakrudeen, a Singapore national of Indian origin who joined ISIS in January 2014 along with his family. Haja had met the duo in early 2014 with intentions to recruit more persons for ISIS. Shakul Hammed will be produced before the NIA special court in Poonamalee, NIA officials said.
KTR at a press meet held in the Secretariat on Monday, on the burning of the Bathukamma sarees; said that the event was an orchestrated and manufactured protests. Also seen are Shailaja Ramaiyer director of handlooms and textiles and Jayesh Ranjan industries secretary. (Photo: P. Anil Kumar)

Hyderabad: Textiles and handlooms minister K.T. Rama Rao on Monday termed the burning of Bathukamma saris orchestrated and manufactured protests by Opposition parties to defame the TRS government and obstruct distribution of one crore free saris to poor women in the state.

Addressing a press conference at the Secretariat, Mr Rama Rao said some student leaders and activists belonging to the Opposition Congress and Telugu Desam parties forcibly snatched away saris that were distributed to women and burnt them.

We are well aware how Opposition parties have been obstructing any development or welfare programmes taken up by TRS government for the last three years. They have not even left Bathukamma saris now. They tried to create unnecessary controversy under the pretext of poor quality and burnt them at five or six distribution centres, which is not even 0.001 per cent of the total 26 lakh saris distributed on day one, Mr Rao said.

Accusing the Opposition parties of resorting to pathetic, disgusting and third grade politics, Mr Rama Rao said, These untoward incidents were witnessed in Jagtial Assembly constituency held by Congress senior MLA T. Jeevan Reddy and Sathupally constituency held by TP MLA Sandra Venkata Veeraiah. This clearly shows who is behind these incidents.

A woman in Jagtial has already filed a complaint with the police against Congress activists for forcibly taking a sari from her and burning it and the case was registered, the minister added.

Stating that Bathukamma had a sentimental and emotional attachment for women, Mr Rao said, Women will not even throw away flowers used to decorate Bathukamma. If women really did not like the saris as claimed by the Opposition parties, they would not have used them, or would have given them away to someone. But they would never burn saris associated with Bathukamma.

He said that the sari distribution programme was a huge success and nearly 26 lakh saris have been distributed of the targeted 1.04 crore in nearly 10,000 centres in all 31 districts.

Defending the governments decision to place an order with textile firms in Surat, Gujarat, Mr Rama Rao said, The scheme was aimed to help debt-ridden weavers in the state by placing an order for 1.04 crore saris worth over Rs 200 crore. But the decision was taken only three months ago.

He added, its not possible to manufacture such a huge quantity in three months here. Due to paucity of time, we had to split the order between our weavers and Surat textile firms in the ratio of 50:50 to meet the targets.

Since, Sircilla has 40,000 powerlooms, we placed an order for 50 lakh saris. From next year, we will place complete order with weavers, he said.

Mr Rama Rao refused to comment on the TSTD working president A. Revanth Reddys allegation that there was a Rs 150 crore scam in procuring the saris. He said, I will comment only if they come out with any proof in support of their allegations. There is no point in reacting to baseless allegations.

Each sari costs Rs 200 not Rs 50, say officials

Industries secretary Jayesh Ranjan and director of handlooms and textiles, Shailaja Ramaiyer, dismissed allegations that they had supplied poor quality Bathukamma saris to women.

Addressing a press conference at the Secretariat, they said each sari was worth over Rs 200 and the allegation that the saris cost `50 was baseless and unfounded.

Mr Jayesh said, These are 100 per cent polyester saris procured from Surat. Orders were placed with textile firms in Surat after quality checks were done at four levels by textile experts. Its not possible for anyone to make polyester saris for Rs 50. They cost over Rs 200. If some people are trying to create needless controversy over these saris with hidden agenda or malafide intention, there is little we can do. We are ready to send the samples of these saris to anyone for quality checks or any tests to find whether they cost `50 or Rs 200 each.

Ms Shailaja Ramaiyer said the scheme was introduced to help the debt-ridden weavers community.

We opted for polyester saris because they are durable. We got the proposal for cotton saris later. But due to insufficient time, we could not change our decision. We will examine cotton saris next time.

She said due to the order of Bathukamma saris, the income of powerloom weavers in Siricilla had more than doubled from Rs 7,000 per month to Rs 20,000.
Members of the Congress IT Cell stage protest against the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre for not waiving off farmer loans, in Bengaluru in Bengaluru on Monday. (Photo: DC)

Bengaluru: The opposition BJP will kickstart its election campaign on November 1 with Parivarthana, a rally covering the 224 Assembly constituencies in the state in 70 days.

State BJP leaders and workers want the party central leadership to convince Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the rally, but the visit of the Prime Minister has not been decided yet. But party central leaders including Cabinet ministers will address the public meetings during the rally.

A top functionary of the state BJP told this newspaper that the rally will commence from November 1 and end before Makara Sankaramana (January 14, 2018).

If the Prime Minister is not able to attend, the party state leadership will request BJP National President Amit Shah to inaugurate the Parivarthana rally, said a senior leader.

The rally is intended to highlight the failures of the Congress government headed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and also convince voters about the need for Parivarthana in the 2018 Assembly elections.

The party has set itself three main agendas. Firstly, it will focus on Hindutva, secondly, on corruption and thirdly on issues concerning farmers. Some party leaders are worried about raising the issue of corruption against the Congress government as they feel it will boomerang with rivals likely to rake up the corruption cases of the previous BJP government involving its CM, B.S. Yeddyurappa.

In each Assembly constituency, public meetings will be conducted with more than 320 public meetings planned over 70 days.

During these public meetings, leaders from other parties will also get a chance to join the BJP.
Hyderabad: TPCC president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Monday launched the 100-day Indiramma Rythu Bata programme aimed at training the party's booth-level cadre on the ongoing land records rectification drive taken up by the TRS government.

Addressing hundreds of booth-level workers in Karimnagar and later at Sangareddy, Mr Uttam Kumar Reddy said the TRS government was pursuing anti-farmer policies which would destroy the agriculture sector.

He alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao had allowed infiltration of TRS cadre into the agriculture sector through the farmer coordination committees to keep poor farmers under their control.

Mr Reddy asked the Congress cadre to be extremely cautious and highlight the loopholes in the ongoing land records rectification drive.

He said the previous Congress regimes had distributed lakhs of acres of land among the poor farmers but the TRS government was snatching away farmers land in the name of different projects. He said that present TRS regime would be remembered as a dark era for the agriculture sector.

He said Mr Raos wrong policies had forced over 3,500 farmers to suicide while lakhs of farmers are yet to recover from the losses incurred due to governments negligent attitude.

Mr Reddy said the Congress would establish Rythu Samrakshana Samitis (Farmers Protection Committees) in all villages. He said these committees would have representatives of all Opposition parties, farmers associations and genuine farmers.

He asked the Congress workers to collect applications from eligible persons for 2 BHK houses and three acres of land for Dalit families. He said the Congress would take up those cases with the concerned authorities.

The TPCC chief said that the Congress would organise flag hoisting programmes in all villages on November 19 to mark the birth anniversary centenary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. A massive public meeting was being planned on the Congress Formation Day on December 28.
Hyderabad: BJP general secretary Ram Madhav on Monday said the party would fight against the arrogance and dictatorial TRS government without any compromise.

He said, he was confident that the party would win a majority of Lok Sabha and Assembly seats in the state on its own in 2019.

Speaking in Hyderabad, Madhav alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Raos rule was nothing short, that of the erstwhile Nizam that was known for arrogance and dictatorship. The Chief Minister was not consulting the Opposition on any issue and was running the administration on his whims, Madhav alleged.

He said, Rao was making tall promises, without bothering about their implementation.

We are going to wage a war against the TRS and the BJP is confident of winning majority on its own without any alliances or seat adjustments, Madhav said.

He said the BJP at the national level had drawn up strategies for Mission 2019 for the accretion of its strength in the Lok Sabha.

The last time we could win only the Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat in Telangana state. Now we have decided to strengthen our base and improve winning chances in the rest of the Lok Sabha seats in the state. We have started a massive exercise in this direction, he added.

Asked about Union ministers frequenting the state and issuing statements praising the TRS government, Madhav said, you should differentiate between the functioning of the government and the party. Even assuming a few schemes are well implemented, it is a known fact that the Centre has a greater share of funds in those schemes.
KOTTAYAM: Father Tom Uzhunnalil will visit India in two weeks, says the Saleshian congregation. Father George Muttathuparampil, spokesperson of the congregation, confirmed the same adding that a final date has not been fixed yet.

We have suggested 27th and 28th of this month as the most suitable dates. Any way the visit will be held within two weeks", he told DC. Meanwhile, the Saleshian congregation and the Uzhunnalil family are planning to give a warm welcome to Father Tom during his visit to the state.

"A reception will be accorded to him at Ramapuram by the Uzhunnalil Kudumba Yogam," Thomas Uzhunn-alil a member of the family said. Prof Navitha Elizabeth Jose, who received the first telephone call from Father Tom after his release from the custody of terrorists, confirmed it, adding, "a meeting of the family will be convened so as to give a rousing welcome to Father Tom." Father Uzhunnalil will come to New Delhi and then to Bangalore from where he will reach his home place at Ramapuram. Right now Father Uzhunnalil is taking rest at the press office of Vatican being run by the Saleshians.
Alappuzha: The Travancore Devaswom Board did not take up the controversial issue of Mr Sudhikumar, the non-Brahmin priest, on Monday as the board president and members were attending a meeting on Sabarimala master plan at Government Guest Houses, Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram. It may be recalled that the board had asked Mr Sudhikumar to give a written application indicating his willingness to serve in the Chettikulangara temple. He was also asked to appear before the TDB headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.

His transfer to the temple as assistant priest had kicked up a controversy after the order was stalled by the authorities on the ground that he was non-Brahmin. Mr Sudhikumar told DC that though he had given a written appeal to the devaswom board secretary, he had received no reply. I have written in the appeal that I wished to serve in the Chettikulangara temple, he said. Mr Prayar Gopalakrishnan, TDB president, said that a decision may be taken on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Mr K. Raghavan, TDB member, said that the final decision has to be taken by the president and member Ajay Tharayil (both are Congress nominees). My stand is that Sudhikumar should be appointed to the Chettikulangara temple, he said. Meanwhile, the Kerala Kamaraj Congress workers led by its president Vishnupuram Chandrasekaran stopped Mr Gopalakrishnan and members in front of the Thycaud guest house in support of Mr Sudhikumar late in the evening on Monday. They withdrew the protest after the TDB president promised to decide the matter on Tuesday.
Chennai: The war of words between the ruling AIADMK and the rebel TTV Dhinakaran turned ugly on Sunday with fisheries minister D. Jayakumar calling him a thief while the former hit out at Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami for saying that he would soon land in jail.

Dhinakaran dared the CM to resign from his post and convene a meeting of party MLAs and elect a new legislature party leader. Let Palaniswami say that the post of Chief Minister and the Cabinet which was given by Chinnamma (V. K. Sasikala) is not necessary ... let them choose anyone (as legislature party leader)... we are not concerned, he told reporters here.

Dhinakaran, who two days ago said that the government would fall within a week, said he was ready to send his loyalist MLAs to the meeting of legislators which he proposed. I am not responsible if they do not vote for you (Mr Palaniswami), he added.

To a question, Dhinakaran asserted that he had not indulged in any corruption and said the cases of alleged Fera violation against him pertained to 1996 when he was not even an MP. He said he became an MP only in 1999.

Reacting strongly to his remarks, Mr Jayakumar likened him to a thief who attempted to rob by jumping over the wall with a monitor lizard. But, he gave it up seeing the public. Likewise Dhinakarans tricks will not work.

He also claimed that none can shake the Palaniswami government. Dhinakaran also sought to know why Mr. Palaniswami and his Ministers got worked up whenever his name was mentioned. I didn't expect brother Palaniswami to speak thus, he added.

While addressing a public meeting, Mr. Palaniswami, said Dhinakaran would soon go to Maamiyar Veedu, meaning he would be sent to jail. Meanwhile, Governor CH. Vidyasagar Rao is likely to arrive here on Monday.
Kalaburagi: While revealing that he had decided to contest the 2018 Assembly polls from a constituency in North Karnataka, state BJP chief, B.S.Yeddyurappa on Monday subtly challenged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to choose to contest from the region as well.

Speaking to reporters here, Mr Yeddyurappa explained he was moving from his home constituency of Shikaripur on the advice of his party high command, but did not reveal what his new constituency would be.

There is pressure on me to contest from Jewargi in Kalaburagi district as well as from Bagalkot and Vijayapura districts. The final decision has not been taken as yet. But its certain that I will contest from North Karnataka this time. If Mr Siddaramaiah also wants to contest from North Karnataka, we will welcome it, he added, clearly challenging the Chief Minister to prove his popularity in the region.

Accusing Mr Siddaramaiah of trying to divide the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community for his partys political ends, he asserted that he would not succeed in his design.

Its certain that the BJP will come back to power in the next elections, he added.

Also taking on Water Resources Minister, M B Patil on the issue of independent religious status for Lingayats, he charged, He will even swear on his wife and children for the sake of politics!

Once again accusing the government of being embroiled in corruption, he threatened to expose the Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues within a week and demanded the resignation of Bengaluru Development Minister, K J George over the suicide of DySP, Ganapathy.

Mr Yeddyurappa, who regretted that the state government had failed to release funds for irrigation projects as promised, said the BJP would hold a rally at Koppal on September 21 to highlight its failures.
Chennai: The DMK and Congress on Monday viewed the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs by Speaker P. Dhanapal as a quicker route to power by winning the bypolls, while the other Opposition leaders hoped that the move would not stand legal scrutiny ultimately resulting in the fall of the government on the floor.

Describing the move as an 'act of cowardice', DMK working president M.K. Stalin said the Palaniswami government trying to escape through fraudulent means would be defeated in the people's court, indicating that the party is preparing to face bypolls to 19 constituencies including R.K. Nagar and change the government.

Congress MLA Vijayadharani, openly commented that the DMK-Congress alliance would sweep all the 19 seats in the bypolls and capture the government. If the DMK swept the polls to 19 seats, the alliance tally would go up to 117 in the 234-member House. Besides, members including actor Karunas and MJK legislator Thamimun Ansari are opposed to the Palaniswami government.

However, Stalin also said the disqualification was illegal and buried the democratic traditions, besides demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami. He also hit out at the BJP government saying the Centre would have to answer for allowing a government which had lost its majority to continue in power and handle the exchequer.

The DMK leader termed the act a 'murder of democracy' since an MLA could be disqualified only if he voluntarily quit a party or voted against the party's whip in Assembly.

Stalin also pointed out that the same Speaker had not disqualified 12 MLAs who voted against the government in the confidence vote in February despite complaints by four AIADMK MLAs.

Citing the Supreme Court verdict on the Yeddiyurappa government's case that MLAs conveying to the Governor that they had no confidence in the Chief Minister would not amount to defection from a party, Stalin said the Speaker's move was against the Supreme Court verdict and anti-defection law.

Citing the same verdict, PMK founder S.Ramadoss said the move would not stand legal scrutiny and asserted that Palaniswami government would be removed even if the Speaker and Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao tried to prop it up. Ramadoss said the horse-trading efforts of the government had failed despite the Governor delaying his decision to give time for horse-trading, the PMK leader said.

CPM state secretary G.Ramakrishnan said the result of the action would depend on the outcome of the court verdict on the issue. CPI state secretary R. Mutharasan said the minority Palaniswami government is acting in an illegal manner with the support of the Centre even though Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Rajnath Singh and the Governor knowing well that the state government had lost its majority. VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan said the Speaker knew that the move would be rejected by the court and described the move as a drama enacted by the state and Central governments.
KALABURAGI: The sudden demise of former minister and prominent Muslim Leader Qamarul Islam has come as a big blow to the Congress, especially in the Kalaburagi North Assembly constituency from where he was elected. The loss is all the more severe as it comes soon after the demise of senior politician and former CM N. Dharam Singh.

A six-term MLA and one-term Lok Sabha MP, Mr Islam had a strong grip over Muslim voters, especially in Kalaburagi City and neighbouring constituencies in the district. Mr Islam was the undisputed and unchallenged Muslim leader in the city. As long as he was alive, the Kalaburagi North Assembly seat was a safe seat for the party and he could win it hands down. Also, his command over Muslim voters helped the party immensely in the Lok Sabha contest as well. Mr Islams demise has left a big void because there is no other Muslim leader who can match him in stature in the district unit of the party. But Mr Islam should also share the blame for creating a void because he never allowed a second rung leadership to grow. Though he had health-related problems during the last few years, he did not groom anyone as his successor, a political analyst observed. Though Mr Islam was a senior leader, he did not try to become a leader of the Hyderabad Karnataka region.

His politics was confined to Kalaburagi North seat (earlier Gulbarga City) and at the most, a few pockets of Muslim voters under Kalaburagi Lok Sabha constituency. He did not look beyond his constituency, observers explained.

Mr Islam created ripples when he defeated veteran Congress leader Mohammed Ali, who was the Transport Minister in the Devaraj Urs Cabinet, in the 1978 Assembly election by contesting on the Indian Union Muslim League ticket. Initially he was a firebrand Muslim leader first in the IUML and subsequently in the Indian National League. After his defeats in the 1983 and 1985 Assembly elections at the hands of veteran Labour leader S.K. Kantha, Mr Islam never looked back. Mr Dharam Singh and Mr Mallikarjun Kharge recognized his usefulness and persuaded him to join the Congress. Mr Islam who was also looking for a broader political platform, lapped up the offer.

Although Mr Islam publicly acknowledged the leadership of Mr Kharge, in reality both of them were not on good terms with each other.  Mr Islam, who considered himself to be the supreme leader of Muslims in the city, did not approve the grooming of any other Muslim leader. So when Mr Kharge started backing his classmate Mr Iqbal Ahmed Saradagi and made him Lok Sabha member and also MLC, it was strongly opposed by Mr Islam. The recent appointment of Mr Ilyas Bhagban as Chairman of North Western Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) was perceived by Mr Islam as a subtle move by Mr Kharge to replace him as the candidate for the Assembly seat. The differences between Mr Islam and Mr Kharge took a serious turn when Mr Islam was dropped from the Cabinet by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in June 2016. Squarely blaming Mr Kharge for his removal, Mr Islam had dared Mr Kharge to come out in the open and work against him. But Mr Kharge bought peace with Mr Islam, because he knew his potential, an analyst observed.
Kalaburagi: Former Congress Minister and prominent Muslim leader, Qamarul Islam, passed away following a brief illness in Bengaluru on Monday. He was 69.

Mr Islam was admitted to hospital 11 days ago for cellulitis of the leg and poor cardiac function. Suffering from hypertension and diabetes, he was also under treatment for Myasthenia Gravis, a neuro-muscular disorder. He died of cardiogenic shock and multi- organ failure in the hospital at noon on Monday, according to his doctors.

As a mark of respect, the KPCC cancelled all its scheduled programmes for the day and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, KPCC president, Dr G. Parameshwar, its working president, Dinesh Gundurao, Water Resources Minister, M.B.Patil, state BJP chief B.S. Yeddyurappa and other leaders of the state offered condolences to his family.

The seniormost Muslim leader from Hyderabad-Karnataka, he represented Kalaburgi six times in the state assembly. Qamar Sab, as he was fondly called by his supporters, began taking an interest in politics as a student of the PDA Engineering College in Kalaburagi and became the first Muslim president of its students union. His political career ,however, took off in the seventies as a leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in Kalaburagi. He went on to win the assembly polls in 1978, but lost the following elections in 1983 and 1985 to veteran Labour leader, S K Kantha, who became the Labour Minister in the Hegde government.

But he made a comeback in 1989 , defeating Mr Kantha in the Assembly elections that year and in the early nineties joined the Indian National League and then later, the Congress. Although he won from Gulbarga in 1994 to enter the Assembly again, he quit two years later to join the Janata Dal briefly and enter the Lok Sabha on its ticket. But he resigned as MP to contest the assembly polls and joined S.M. Krishna cabinet as Housing Minister.

Although he was part of the Siddaramaiah government too, he was dropped from the Cabinet in June 2016 and squarely blamed senior Congress leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, for his demotion. He was, however, appointed AICC secretary in charge of Kerala a few months ago.

Having served as the first chairman of the Hyderabad-Karnataka Regional Development Board when it was constituted in 2014, he also had stints as chairman of the Karnataka Housing Board, Karnataka Minority Comm ission and Karnataka Slum Clearance Board.
Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs supporting rebel leader TTV Dhinakaran for withdrawing their support to Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and going against the line of the ruling AIADMK.

The Speakers decision brings down the strength of the 234-member Assembly to 214 and the magic number for a majority down to 108 from 118, which might enable the Edappadi K. Palaniswami government to prove its strength on the floor of the House.

As per the last count on September 5, the Chief Ministers camp has the support of 114 MLAs as 111 of them turned up at a meeting and three others registered their presence over phone.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has 19 seats vacant as of now , including RK Nagar which is vacant since the late chief minister J Jayalalithaas death in December last year.

A floor test cannot take place till Wednesday as per a directive from the Madras High Court. Almost a month after the rebel group MLAs had submitted a letter to the acting Governor, CH Vidyasagar Rao, stating the withdrawal of their support to the Chief Minister, Speaker Dhanapal issued a statement in which he said the legislators were disqualified under The Members of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification On Ground of Defection) Rules, 1986.

The MLAs who were disqualified include P Vetrivel and Thanga Tamilselvan, the most vocal supporters of Dhinakaran, whose appointment as deputy general secretary and reinduction into the party was struck down by the General Council last week. A majority of the disqualified legislators are staying at a private resort in Karnatakas Kodagu district.

The move was expected since the Speaker had sent them notices seeking their reply on why they should not be disqualified for going against the party line on August 24. Dhanapal had acted on a petition filed by Chief Whip S Rajendran who sought their disqualification for expressing no confidence against the Chief Minister. The move by Dhanapal may clear some of the uncertainty for now, but the rival Dhinakaran camp has vowed to take the fight right up to the Supreme Court.

Legal experts were divided on their opinion with majority of them saying any decision by the Speaker is subject to judicial review. They also referred to the Supreme Court cancelling disqualification of 16 MLAs by the then Karnataka Speaker in October 2010. They also said the sky-high powers of the Speaker are limited to his/her actions on the floor of the House and inside the Assembly.

Immediately after the move was made public, Dhinakaran accused the Speaker and Government of trying to prove majority through unfair means. It is always justice that prevails at the end. We will definitely seek legal course and ensure that our legislators participate in the voting as and when it happens. They will vote against this Government, Dhinakaran said.

However, Fisheries Minister and EPS-OPS loyalist D Jayakumar said the Speaker has acted democratically and has gone by the rule book. I am not supposed to comment on the Speaker's decision or action. His decision is final and moreover this matter is in court. If I talk about it, it will be sub-judice, he told reporters in New Delhi.

The Opposition also hit out against the Speaker's decision calling it most unfortunate. The disqualification has been done deliberately to reduce the strength of the house. We will challenge the decision at two places - courts and people's court, Opposition Leader MK Stalin said.
If he shuts up, they shut up. Its what it seems to come down to. Because there was, and remains, a bit of a mystery at the heart of the ouster.

If it was about accountability, accountability was already dead. The London apartments are from the 90s, as was everything directly against Zardari.

In a decade of democracy, theres nothing new thats come up. The iqama is new, but the embarrassment of having to hang an ouster on it has forced attention away from it.

If it was about the judiciary asserting its primacy, other recent events with the judiciary and among lawyers have demonstrated that its business as ugly usual.

Sure, if youre the PM, youve got to worry about the courts, but the courts dont seem particularly keen on bringing the iron hammer of the law down in areas far and wide.

If it was about the boys wanting to get their way, it wasnt like anyone was stopping them from getting their way anyway. Theres nothing that Nawaz had actually won against them. And they had clearly figured out how to contain him. Better, then, to leave the dagger hanging above him than to plunge it in.

From inside the system, Nawaz had an obvious interest in stability and continuity. From outside, you risk him becoming a loose cannon and keeping everything uncertain and unstable.

The fierce, angry polemics in the immediate aftermath of the ouster and the GT Road defiance demonstrated the danger. But then things went quiet.

The braying and bleating lot on TV suddenly turned low energy. The next phase of the Sharifs legal woes got off to an uncertain start. The wild threats to national security quietly receded.

Seven weeks since the biggest shake up in decades of civilian political history, its like we didnt just lose a PM. Its almost like we never had Nawaz.

Part of it is likely Kulsooms illness. You cant have a slashing, bitter contest when the biggest candidate, an elderly woman no less, is getting emergency cancer treatment.

Part of it is likely IK. He doesnt like sharing the PTI spotlight and so the party candidate has had to toil in relative national anonymity. Part of it is the Sharif family drama. The Shahbaz side is sulking and plotting; Maryam is finding her political feet; and the party is worried and frozen, unsure of who will lead them into next years election. But it still doesnt quite add up.

Until you factor in one more thing: Nawaz has shut up. Hes out of the country and hes not talking. And, it seems, as long as Nawaz is willing to shut up  and possibly stay out of the country  theyre willing to shut up too.

If youre willing to be adventurous, you can even guess that theyre telegraphing a message to Nawaz: look, were not trying to hurt you and we dont want to do anything more than whats happened.

Keep your billions, enjoy your apartments, hang out with your grandkids and look after the wife. Just put some distance between yourself and Pakistan and the PML(N) and everything can be all right. If he shuts up, they shut up.

The sceptic will see that its already a case of mission accomplished. We have, in effect, a technocratic, apolitical PM. Hes unobtrusive, stays in his lane and is non-threatening.

The sceptic will note that minus Nawaz there is no real PML(N), not in a sense of seriously challenging anything that the boys care about.

The avoid-confrontation-with-institutions silliness of some in the PML(N) is just code for doing business, carving up the state between the boys and the civilians to the satisfaction of both and the misery of the people. But there seems something more, something personal, with Nawaz.

The civilians had the temerity recently to speak of past national sins and the need to move the state off the path of non-state jihad, and it barely elicited a response from the boys and their proxies in the media.

If Nawaz did that, well, weve seen what happened. So cooperation with the civilians on civilian priorities that the boys may grudgingly recognise as the right choice is not entirely ruled out. Only with Nawaz. What is it about Nawaz?

It seems to be about personality  what they think of him and what they believe he thinks of them.

Nawaz with his base in Punjab and mind set on peace with India is a policy-politics threat that would always have to be managed. But the old and well-known are also the well-understood and expertly countered.

So maybe what drove them over the edge was that Nawaz acted like he was above them, better than them. His dislike, arguably contempt, for judges and generals was on full display in his last year in office. See, the Panama hearings and the Raheel exit.

So when he was at their mercy, there was none to be had. Nawaz got done to him what he probably fantasised about doing to judges and generals, if he had the power.

And now, with him gone and, at least temporarily, having shut up, they are showing they are better than him by giving him an option: if he shuts up, they shut up.

So the weirdest ouster among the many ousters weve had has already given way to business as ugly usual.

Accountability is dead, the courts seemed uninterested in extending their primacy far and wide, and the boys get to have their way and look conciliatory too. If he shuts up, they shut up.

By arrangement with Dawn
People dont necessarily recognise modern frontiers. When war, brutal suppression or starvation forces them to leave their homes they often do so as did the citizens of Syria or Afghanistan or more recently the Rohingyas living on the northern coast of Myanmar. Their displacement from their homes is not extraordinary in recent modern history, or even in the region they come from. It happened in Bangladesh when the birth of that nation was accompanied by the murder of lakhs of people and the temporary moving of millions of desperate people to sanctuary in next-door India.

As a civilisation we have given sanctuary to many people who have sought refuge on our shores, from Parsees who left Iran centuries ago to more recently Tibetans, Afghans, Sri Lankan Tamils and Bangladeshis seeking an end to repression. In the latest flareup of violence, when nearly half a million have sought refuge in Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia or Indonesia, less than a tenth have sought refuge in India.

The Narendra Modi governments attitude towards refugees has, not surprisingly, been callous. It has overturned all previous notions of caring for those driven from their homes despite the strain it puts on our resources. Former RSS ideologue K.N. Govindacharya filed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking deportation of Rohingya Muslims, claiming they are being used by Al Qaeda for terror and jihad. The minister of state for home affairs informed Parliament that 40,000 Rohingyas were to be deported. This attitude has to do with the religion followed by the Rohingya people and has nothing to do with any dangers the helpless refugees may pose.

Modern communication and the relative ease of travel have made the refugee crisis a worldwide phenomenon. Witness how refugees fled the devastated Arab world, specially countries like Syria and Libya, where the US was trying to force a regime change. Most of those fleeing their bombed-out homelands are willing to return once the terror ends. Meanwhile, Europe has to put up with the refugees at their doorstep. But it never had to deal with the crisis in the way Asian countries like India have had to.

Behind every refugee crisis is a larger political crisis. The annexation of Tibet by the Chinese led to the Dalai Lama and thousands of his followers seeking refuge in India. Similarly, the breakup of East Bengal from Pakistan and the reign of terror they unleashed led to over a million Bangladeshis seeking temporary shelter in India. Something similar happened during the chaos in Afghanistan in the 1990s when there were over a million refugees in Pakistan.

Rohingyas are considered by the United Nations as the most persecuted minority group in the world. They have faced persecution for several decades, the latest being in 2016 and 2017. While Human Rights Watch has called the military crackdown on Myanmar a case of ethnic cleansing, the UNs office of human rights has declared that the crisis in Myanmar could tantamount to crimes against humanity.

In 1982, the Government of Myanmar passed a citizenship law that gave national citizenship to only those people of Myanmar who could prove they had ancestors residing in the country before British colonial rule. The Rohingyas found themselves classified as associate citizens and were deprived of holding any government office and denied several other citizenship rights. A further confusion with their status in Myanmar is the denial of their ethnic Burmese identity and are considered stateless entities by the government.

The problem is accentuated by the extreme poverty of Rakhine state  the least developed region in Myanmar. Though Myanmar is changing after decades of stagnation, opportunities are still limited. All the neighbouring countries  Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia  offer a better life and even Bangladesh has grown remarkably fast in the past decade or so. Coupled with the government repression are opportunities elsewhere that offer a better life. So together with a demand to get a better political deal for the Rohingya population in Rakhine province there needs to be greater emphasis on economic development there.

The most recent clashes in Rakhine broke out again in August 2017 after a militant group known as the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) claimed responsibility for attacks on police and Army posts. More than 100 people died. The ARSA was declared a terrorist organisation as many such groups are in other parts of the world as well. The comparison with Kashmir, with militants there being labelled terrorists to sway public opinion, is inevitable. So also the reaction of majoritarian organisations, like the BJP and RSS, that are eager to dub any armed resistance to government misrule as terrorist.

What is more surprising is the reaction of Aung San Suu Kyi  the tallest leader in Myanmar. After she led Myanmars first democratically elected government last year, the first after the military coup in 1962 came to power, people expected her to change the style of governance. But with her grip on power still weak, she has been reluctant to battle for Rohingyas and other Muslims for fear of alienating Buddhist nationalists and threatening the still fragile leadership.

Myanmars de facto leader has denied that ethnic cleansing is taking place and dismissed international criticism of her handling the crisis. In doing so she has weakened her own position as a leader who fought for decades to restore democratic rights in Myanmar. She accused critics of fuelling resentment between Buddhists and Muslims and the Nobel Peace Prize laureate said her government had already started defending all the people in Rakhine in the best way possible. She has to restore rights of Rohingyas if democracy has to survive in Myanmar.
Its a week now since Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi spoke at the University of California at Berkeley and the buzz and counter-buzz havent faded yet. It seems the faltering Mr Gandhi, often described as a misfit in politics, and blamed for his reluctance to shoulder the responsibility of the Congress, the countrys oldest political party, seems to have at last found his voice, and in a way has got his act together. This is one time the ruling BJP has found it difficult to laugh him out of court. BJP president Amit Shah countered Mr Gandhis charge that there has been no economic growth in the three years since Prime Minister Narendra Modi entered office by asking the Congress leader to explain what his family had done for the country. It was clearly a bad one from Mr Shah. He should have asked about the Congress contribution to development in 50 years, instead he pointed a finger at Mr Gandhis great-grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru, grandmother Indira Gandhi and father Rajiv Gandhi. It became personalised, and it revealed that somewhere Mr Gandhis words touched a raw nerve in Mr Shah. The BJP president soon recovered his poise and told the media in Jharkhand that he wouldnt respond to Rahul Gandhis speeches.

Information and broadcasting minister Smriti Irani, who had contested against Mr Gandhi in Amethi and who appears confident of dislodging him in the next election, mounted a counter-attack, calling Rahul Gandhi a failed dynast and described his career in politics as a failed political journey. There was also the taunt that Mr Gandhi chose a foreign locale to criticise the Narendra Modi government, and she implied Mr Gandhi and his party didnt have ground to stand on in the country. The political crossfire is in order. But theres a clear indication that it has gone beyond the predictable rapier thrusts. It seems that Mr Gandhi had not only expressed his own assessment and his own opinion of the situation in the country with disarming candour  at one point he acknowledged that Mr Modi was a better communicator than him  but he has also echoed the rising tide of public dissatisfaction with three years of the Modi government. Its the convergence of Mr Gandhis personal view and general opinion in the country that makes the Berkeley speech a turning point as it were in the nations shoptalk.

When Mr Modi campaigned in 2014 against the ineffective and effete Manmohan Singh government, he was voicing his personal view but he also echoed general opinion. After three years in power, it appears that the tables have turned, and the Modi government is in the line of fire. That Mr Gandhi fired the salvo could be explained away as a coincidence but it will not change the fact that there is a change in the nations mood. His level-headed, calm and critical assessment of the Modi governments performance is far superior to the throwaway line of suit-boot ki sarkar in an earlier Lok Sabha speech. His critics and detractors, and there are legions of them in the party and outside, in the BJP and in the media, have suddenly found themselves face to face with a man who cannot any more be lampooned. There might be occasion in the future when he might make himself a ready target of scorn, but this is his moment.

However, it would be far too premature to declare that this could be the beginning of the end for the Modi government and the BJPs impressive series of electoral wins from 2014 onwards. What is clear is that the people are now asking questions, and the BJP is forced to give answers. For example, Mr Shah had to acknowledge that economic growth has slowed down due to technical reasons. He couldnt any more contemptuously brush aside the question. The Berkeley speech can be described as a green shoot of political dissent in the country, that can either gain strength or wither away. Even those who have been impressed with Mr Gandhis newfound gravity are doubtful whether he can carry it through as that involves activating the fractious Congress Party, striking alliances with other parties and reaching out to people at large with something more substantial than the litany of the Modi governments policy blunders. He has less than two years to work out the alternative to the BJP. Even this wouldnt ensure success. Because ultimately, the people remain to be convinced. What Mr Gandhi has achieved post-Berkeley is that people across the country, contrary to Ms Iranis claims, are willing to give a hearing to Mr Gandhi, to the Congress and to other Opposition parties. That is what is worrying the BJP.

It shouldnt come as a surprise that the Modi government is losing its 2014 sheen, and the Prime Ministers charisma is showing signs of wear and tear. The media in 2014 pitted the political virility of Mr Modi against a namby-pamby Rahul Gandhi, and it seemed natural that Mr Gandhi didnt stand a chance. It is also forgotten that after a decade of Congress-led UPA rule, the people looked for a change. It was not entirely Mr Gandhis fault that he looked a greenhorn in comparison to Mr Modi. In 2017, the situation is slightly different. Prime Minister Modi is not all that strong any more, and Mr Gandhi isnt exactly a novice. But the scales in a Modi-Gandhi contest are still in favour of Mr Modi. But people may want to vote out the BJP more than Mr Modi, and they may opt for a Congress-led coalition more than Mr Gandhi. It changes equations altogether. The BJP might well believe Prime Minister Modi is their Sachin Tendulkar, but its a fact India lost many a match despite Tendulkar. This should be a moment of reflection for the BJP more than for the Congress. The political Opposition that was nearly decimated in 2014 is back in the reckoning. Mr Gandhi has merely made it clear that the Opposition is back.
Tales of bravery abound in the armed forces, including the Air Force, where the thrill of flying adds to the lore, more so when pilots risk their lives in combat. But even by the high standards of bravery in the military, the tale of Arjan Singh, first Marshal of the IAF and Indias only five-star flying officer, is a lyrical one. He was the born leader of a fledgling Air Force who flew every possible aircraft, including in combat. Pilots put their lives on the line every time they entered the cockpit of early fighters, primitive ones guided visually rather than in the computerised machines of today. World War IIs fighter pilots were heroic combatants. Arjan Singh was among them, winning the Distinguished Flying Cross, the most reputed British wartime honour. He took on the Japanese in the Arakan campaign and gave air support to Indian troops in Rangoon.

Arjan Singhs greatest deed was possibly in 1965, as IAF Chief, during the battle of Akhnoor when he led aerial missions to stop the Pakistani offensive, outmanoeuvring an enemy far better equipped in terms of aircraft, flying American fighters. Arjan was one of the prime forces behind the imaginative tactical planning for the battles in the sky that won the short war for India in just three weeks. For a fighting man, even civil assignments after retirement seemed to suit him as he joined the ranks of diplomats and administrators. He faded away at the ripe age of 98, as a clamour is growing for a Bharat Ratna for Indias pioneering air warrior.
The Parsons Green underground train station attack in southwest London on Friday, in which 30 persons were hurt but fortunately no one died, was not seen globally as a major terrorist strike, although from the start the British authorities treated it as an act of terrorism. It appeared the police might have been exercising abundant caution, considering Britain has been targeted five times by terrorists this year. But the investigations so far seem to suggest possible signs of a change in the modus operandi of international Islamist outfits like Daesh (Islamic State), which faces an existential crisis in its home base in Iraq and Syria.

One of the two young men arrested in Britain was picked up from the departure area of Dover port and may have been fleeing to France. It is not known if there is a wide network with links in Europe. The real point is that cadres of disaffected young people have entrenched themselves in Europe and elsewhere. The Parsons Green operation makes it clear this was not a suicide bombing, for which Islamists are known. Is this a change of tactic, and if so what does it indicate? These are complex issues to figure out.

The past two decades, since the global spread of Islamist terrorism and extremist thought to the far corners of the world, have revealed the Islamist strain to be a serious politico-psychological issue which has shaken up the worlds military and security establishment as well as the political grid in certain countries.

In light of this it was amateurish, reckless, and revealing of a shocking disregard of leadership qualities on the part of US President Donald Trump to say in tweets that the British police had known the identity of the Parsons Green attackers but was found wanting in its counter-terrorism abilities. Can such a leader be trusted to make key decisions that impact the entire world?

In case Mr Trump tweeted against Scotland Yard in order to win back his nativist, redneck constituency back home in America, which some think may have been getting disenchanted since the US leaders hobnobbing with Democrats in the past week or so to get past key political hurdles in the US Congress, he was being completely irresponsible and cynical.

In his tweets, besides criticising the UK police, Mr Trump renewed his call for restricting immigration from certain Muslim countries. This is likely to feed the communal narrative in a nation like India and also drive passions among communal, sectarian, extremist outfits in Islamic countries and Muslim communities everywhere. If extremism and terrorist tendencies in Islamic countries have to be curbed, the need is to douse passions and gain the social support of Muslims everywhere with appropriate policy actions, and not inflame passions as Mr Trump has done.
The ninth annual Brics summit followed by the India-Japan bilateral summit may be over, but China remains an unresolved issue due to geography and economics. The friction with Beijing is unlikely to see any early end due to the territorially turbulent geography and the reality of gross unequal economics of one-way trade. The latter is conducted under international agreements such as those relating to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the World Customs Organisation (WCO). These are intended to further globalisation, inter-dependence, inter-connectivity and mutual benefit of the worlds sovereign nations, but often have a different effect.

There is a turbulent geography with Beijing over the unresolved Sino-Indian territorial dispute, which was among the many issues pushed under the carpet at the recent Brics summit in Xiamen. Unequal economics as Beijing is the only one profiting from the trade, where Indias handicap remains unresolved and unadvised. This in the long run will harm India no end, and there may come a time, and not too distant in the future, when this nation will regret the colossal loss caused to industry, employment, macro-economic policy and planning, leading to possible internal turbulence, civil unrest and political chaos, resulting in unforeseen and unanticipated dislocation in society. To understand the basics, one should note the fault lines in Sino-Indian bilateral commerce/trade  which only furthers imports of Chinese fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

Its an open secret that Chinas annual bilateral trade surplus is $50 billion-plus, while Indias exports are virtually static and stagnant, at $10 billion annually. Is India planning to rectify this grim scenario? Will Indians always have to play a economically subservient role for the sake of sticking to our international commitments and obligations under WTO and WCO? Does China even follow it? Or will India alone shoulder the responsibility of acting ethically in international commerce, even if it hurts our core national interests?

In a credible recent analysis, it was found that over 80 per cent of the total import of toys was made through three major customs ports  Mumbai (Jawaharlal Nehru Port or Nhava Sheva), Delhi (Tughlakabad Customs, Inland Container Depot) and Chennai Port. This study also found over 92 per cent of imports were from China. The most significant finding, however, was that most of the traders/importers were either not declaring the brand of goods, or are declaring them unbranded in the brand column of import documents, virtually confirming that Chinese exporters are colluding with some unscrupulous Indian traders/importers to harm the Indian economy.

Another study on unbranded mobile phone parts and accessories found most of the consignments were in pre-packaged form and there was a huge variation in the import transaction value and the prices in Indias local markets. In fact, such is the price variation between the imported stuff and retail sale prices that customs officers found it not only improbable, but absurd. Interestingly, all these pertain to imports from China.

Lets therefore take another sample to do a reality check on Indias economics of public finance. The minimum unit price of imported mobile accessories fluctuates between Rs 0.8 to Rs 9.9, the ascertained local RSP  done through online market surveys  for hands-free shows the minimum sale price (MSP) to be Rs 100, and for hands-free with Bluetooth at Rs 295. There are several other studies and the result is simply bewildering  the total disadvantage of India resulting in a colossal loss to the Indian exchequer. Loss of customs revenue means loss to the Indian economy. All this is in the name of adhering to our international treaty obligations.

It is disturbing to unravel this stark picture pertaining to a national loss. It is not only damaging our economy, but is also a potential threat to national security  as the time may come when the Chinese monopoly will turn India into a country of eternal financial loss, debt, deficit and unemployment. When Indias 1.25 billion people keep spending, and the Chinese keep earning!

A fact that is often forgotten by our IAS-centric bureaucratic establishment is that there is a wing of the civil service called Indian Revenue Service, whose nomenclature has undergone a slight change with the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax from July 2017. But that doesnt take away or alter the role and duty of the customs department in Sino-Indian bilateral trade, which fortuitously remains intact.

I would like to draw attention to the fact that despite customs being a major department, which can do much in finance, commerce, defence and national security, it is not being looked upon or involved in the bigger scheme of things on the nations strategic canvas. The customs department is in the forefront of national security and does an operational job, which makes it the only service dealing with both men and material, vide Customs Act 1962. One of the most effective and intelligently-crafted of all post-Independence laws, the 161 sections of the Customs Act empowers officials to know the background, behaviour, action and movement of each and every person going in and out of the country through ports, airports and land border posts. Also, every imported and exported consignment is under the official gaze of the customs department. Every piece of baggage of a passenger can be opened, searched, seized and confiscated if the situation so demands. There is also ancillary work pertaining to intelligence/investigation connected to various other laws, that empower customs officials to act. In short, no other department or service has the authority, power, duty and responsibility to do what the customs service does. There are also no other agencies that can work upfront as well as undercover wherever necessary. The police doesnt have the mandate. IAS and IFS officers cannot have knowhow of the technical, legal and operational matters of the customs department except when a secretary from an all-India service comes for less than 30 months to head a highly technical and law-oriented IRS, rendering even seasoned senior professional customs officers helpless. This has been continuing for the past 70 years. The ongoing Sino-Indian trade imbalance is a danger signal. The government needs to wake up to the reality and use the customs service more effectively to rectify the potential economic rot and a possible growing threat to national security.
This country runs on trust  and one of the most admirable qualities has been its multi-culturism. This is particularly visible in London, which did not vote for Brexit, and has even elected a Muslim mayor, Sadiq Khan. But now some of these admirable values are on shaky ground with the latest Tube attack  in which a bucket bomb on a Tube at rush hour failed to detonate  but still injured many.

The bomb is suspected to have been placed by someone who was given shelter as a refugee by a well-meaning British couple. This, if true, would be the ultimate betrayal of British values.

Unfortunately, while the person who created and placed the bomb might be mentally ill or disturbed, these acts do create communal rifts  and add to the ever-present suspicion of migrants, specially from a particular religion, alas.

For years in India we have all grumbled over the endless checking of briefcases and handbags at all public venues, train stations and even malls  but now one firmly believes that this system must be brought into the UK as well. Unfortunately, the era when we could all trust each other is being destroyed by these foolish and deranged youngsters who do not realise the enormous harm they are doing to their own community and its image. The worst will be if other refugees  who could have got a good start in life in the UK  are now denied entry.

Technology is what you make of it  and while some use it to make bombs  others use it to write books. And one of the books which has been short listed for the Man Booker this year is by a first-time young novelist Fiona Mozley who wrote it on her phone while commuting. I must say I am impressed already by this nimble-fingered author! I find it difficult enough to write emails on the phone and here is someone who has written a whole novel! Though it has been called a gothic dark gem and deals with the marginalised  there are literary critics who are already fuming about the fact that other better-known writers like Arundhati Roy and Zadie Smith never made it. However, the debuts are always interesting  so Mozleys Elmut and Emily Fridlunds History of Wolves is getting a good response, while I cannot wait to read Mohsin Hamids Exit West  though not a debut of course. So who are you betting on?

There was a time when most visitors came to the UK in July... but now we find that London is on the map almost throughout the year, making it a really busy city. The highlight last week were the events around the 120th anniversary of the Battle of Saragarhi one of the famous last stands in military history, in which 21 Sikh soldiers died but did not surrender to a savage army of over 6,000 Afghans. There were ceremonies commemorating this event in London and elsewhere. Capt. Amarinder Singh, the chief minister of Punjab, also gave a really informative talk about it at the National Army Museum at Chelsea. It was well-attended, specially by former soldiers and officers from the pre-Partition days, including British officers who had served in the Indian Army, and Sikh soldiers now settled in the UK who had fought in World War II. The Saragarhi Foundation, run by the indefatigable Harbinder Singh, had organised a series of events, including a polo match and the launch of The Peoples Maharajah, a biography on the Punjab CM written by Khushwant Singh. The latter bears the same name as the legendary author, and has also done a remarkable job of producing a candid tell all book, which is rare in India. Suhel Seth, erudite as ever, conducted the conversation at the Mayfair Hotel. There was also a wreath-laying ceremony at the Memorial Gates at Hyde Park in which I also participated (with a lump in my throat) remembering the brave fallen Sikh soldiers who were butchered at Saragarhi.

Perhaps next year we could get defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman to preside over some of these really moving events when we remember those Indians who died in innumerable battlefields outside their home country in the late 19th and early 20th century.

In case you thought that Big Brother is not watching you in the UK, think again. And NHS definitely has you in their radar if you are obese. The real problem in the land of plenty appears to be unhealthy eating. So now the obese are going to be taught how to cook healthy food, under new rules. Though the cooking classes might cost up to 500 to the taxpayer, they are thought to be a good investment as it might prevent the NHS from spending many thousands curing diabetes or other obesity-related issues in later years.

I wonder how many of the celebrity chefs would qualify as cooking experts under these new NHS guidelines? Almost every recipe from Nigella Lawson, for instance, includes generous dollops of butter! And what about the delicious ready to eat meals available at supermarkets? The NHS will also have to regulate who we read and what we see!
Ali Mohammad Sagar, former J&K minister and National Conference general secretary, says that the BJP wants to settle outsiders, people who are not state subjects, in J&K to change its demography. In an interview with Yusuf Jameel, Mr Sagar speaks on home minister Rajnath Singhs recent Kashmir visit and Article 35A and various other issues. Excerpts:

Union home minister Rajnath Singh, during his recent J&K visit, said that the Centre will not go against the sentiments of the people of Kashmir. Should it end the ongoing controversy over Article 35A of the Constitution?

Were not quite sure. When we met him, he told us that a non-issue is being made into an issue unnecessarily. But he didnt tell us categorically that Article 35A will not be diluted. Also, a few hours after he made a statement at a presser that we will not go against the sentiments of the people of Kashmir, a senior BJP leader said Article 35A will not pass judicial scrutiny and that it was illegal. Unless and until the Central government submits an affidavit before the Supreme Court strongly defending Article 35A the fears and apprehensions among the people here would not go.

Why should they want to tamper with Article 35A?

I think it is the BJPs political agenda. It wants to settle outsiders, the people who are not state subjects, in J&K to change its demography. Article 35A, as you know, empowers the J&K legislature to define permanent residents of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents. If Article 35A goes, the state-subject law which is in force since 1927 can also get diluted. As per this law, only permanent residents of J&K can own immovable property in the state and enjoy other benefits like employment in government departments and agencies. The BJP wants to snatch it. It also says non-state subjects are entitled to vote in state Assembly elections. It has during its election manifestos in the past opposed the J&Ks unique status and insisted on one flag and one Constitution. Since that is not possible because of the special status guaranteed under Article 370, the party wants both it and Article 35A to go.

Did you convey your apprehensions to the home minister?

We told him that we strongly protest at the ambiguity that exists on behalf of the government at the Centre in defending J&Ks special status in the Supreme Court. We also expressed disappointment over the J&K governments inadequate defence of the states constitutional rights and political identity.

He also said that the Centre is eager to talk to all stakeholders with an open heart and mind to resolve the issue of Kashmir. Is it a good sign and how different is it from earlier stance of the BJP-led government?

They talk a lot, but do little practically on the ground. Their ally PDP had publicly pledged that peace talks with Pakistan and the Hurriyat Conference and other separatists would be resumed to find a solution to the Kashmir problem. They promised it also in Agenda of the Alliance, the framework of the PDP-BJP coalition. Nothing has moved. They also promised to open new routes to reconnect the two parts of Kashmir. Even the existing ones have been shut or are facing problems. The entire Hurriyat leadership is languishing in jails or curbs are imposed on their movement on daily basis. There is huge gap between what they say and what they do.

Do you think the raids and arrests being made by the National Investigating Agency (NIA) can aggravate the situation? The separatists have openly accused the government of using the agency as a tool to browbeat them and force them into capitulation?

Our party president, Dr Farooq Abdullah, has already said that the NIA raids wont yield anything as these exercises are only aimed at defaming and creating turbulence in Kashmir. We, at the party level, believe that the NIA raids could be appreciated only if these bring any consequences. If these raids and arrests are meant to threaten people or torture them or ruin our business sectors, nothing positive will emerge as far as the problems faced in Kashmir are concerned.

Such actions must not be politically motivated or an exercise of political vendetta. The NIA has claimed that terror funding was taking place. But it has, so far, not come up with anything that is credible. Were waiting and watching.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had, in his Independence Day speech, said that the issue of Kashmir cant be resolved through goli (bullet) or gaali (abuse) but by embracing its people. Is the government going in right direction and what role the National Conference (NC) assigns for itself towards reconciliation in Kashmir?

Na goli se, na gaali se, Kashmir ki samasya suljhe gi gale lagaane se is a good slogan. Earlier, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had also coined the slogan bandook se na goli se, baat banegi boli se (neither gun nor bullet but talk will help resolving issues). But they have failed to live up to it and translate their rhetoric into realism. Nevertheless, the PM has taken this pledge from the ramparts of the Red Fort and that on a day which is very important for the country. We have to trust.

Rajnath Singh also said people should understand the PMs na goli se, na gaali se intention and added a new mantra of five Cs  compassion, communication, coexistence, confidence and consistency to reach out to the Kashmiri people.

But before beginning his J&K visit, he had said that he was going with an open heart and would like to talk to all. At our meeting, our party working president Omar Abdullah asked for holding an open-ended, constructive and sustained political engagement with all stakeholders and political organisations in Kashmir irrespective of their political ideology. We said this was imperative for peace and is a prerequisite to an acceptable resolution of the political issue. But he didnt meet and talk to people with whom he needs to talk.

Who are they?

Clearly the Hurriyat Conference and other separatist leaders. It is they who are standing apart and are disillusioned. They challenge the states accession with India. We in the NC dont. Nor do the Congress, the BJP or any other mainstream party. You cant discount or evade them. They also hold weight and you have to take them along. You need to talk to those who take offence.

For this reason, we told the home minister that the Central government should invite all stakeholders for talks. We strongly believe that the initiative would drastically reduce the level and depth of turmoil on the ground and help in initiating a process of reconciliation and rebuilding.

But the government and also the BJP have ruled out possibility of a dialogue with the Hurriyat Conference and other separatists. During the home ministers visit while various mainstream political parties, social and trade organisations and civil society groups were invited to meet him, the separatist leaders were ignored and even curbs were imposed on their movement. Do you still see ice being broken on Kashmir?

When Atal Behari Vajpayee was Prime Minister, the BJP-led government did hold a series of rounds of talks with the Hurriyat leaders. Even then deputy prime minister L.K. Advani got the joint secretary (home) to talk with five top commanders of Hizbul Mujahideen. When they could go to that extent then, I think it is vital and unavoidable to talk to the separatist leadership to bring about lasting peace in J&K. You have to go beyond sloganeering and rhetoric and move forward to resolve the issue of Kashmir.
Eli Goldstein, cofounder of SkyCool Systems, showed off his new invention at his workspace in Burlingame, California. The new device looked weird, but was claiming to do something more wonderful that how it looks.

A set of square silver panels placed into his parking lot were tilted toward the sun, and covered in aluminum foil attached to a metal frame holding an array of pipes, tubes, and thermometers.

SkyCools new panels being shown off were some sort of high-tech mirrors, designed to cool down buildings far more efficiently than traditional air-conditioning systems. The new device does it by exploiting optics that allows a narrow band of radiation to escape into space. Depending on the application and climate conditions, the technology could be able cut down energy used to cool structures by 10 to 70 per cent.

Understanding how it works requires a bit of background. MIT Technology Review gives us the entire insides of the same.

All objects give off heat in the form of infrared radiation, an invisible form of light just to the right of red on the spectrum. The point of jackets, mittens, and scarves is to retain as much of that radiant heat as possible, keeping us warm on winter days. The atmosphere itself, mainly in the form of water molecules, also radiates back a portion of the heat.

But a sliver of emissions in the mid-infrared range (with wavelengths between eight and 13 micrometers, for those keeping score) slips through, escaping through what has been described as a window into space. Materials emitting radiation in that range literally cast it into the cold expanses of space, or at least the cool upper atmosphere, allowing the surfaces themselves to dip below the temperature of the surrounding air. This natural phenomenon is what causes frost to form on surfaces under the open night sky, like car windows and blades of grass, even when temperatures dont reach freezing.

A critical challenge for harnessing this mechanism in useful ways has been that during the day, the heat from the sun generally offsets any cooling effect. But in research first published in Nature in late 2014, the scientists behind SkyCool Systems got around that problem by developing an advanced material tuned to radiate infrared light in the range that slips through the atmosphere while also reflecting away 97 percent of sunlight. Placed on a roof under direct sunlight, the material remained 4.9 C below ambient air temperatures, a cooling power of 40.1 watts per square meter.

Three of the researchers involved in this work cofounded SkyCool Systems last spring in an effort to commercialize the technology. Goldstein is the startups chief technology officer; Aaswath Raman, lead author of the original paper and one of MIT Technology Reviews 35 Innovators Under 35 in 2015, serves as chief executive; and Shanhui Fan, a Stanford professor of electrical engineering, acts as an advisor.

Last week the researchers published a follow-up paper in Nature Energy, demonstrating that a scaled-up version of the technology can be used to cool flowing water. By setting up panels with thin water pipes running directly beneath them, the researchers lowered the temperature of water by 5 C over three days of testing. The result suggests that the technology can be incorporated into existing cooling mechanisms by replacing or augmenting the condenser component used in conventional air-conditioning and refrigeration. Through modeling, the researchers showed that integrating the technology into a two-story office building in Las Vegas would cut the electricity demands of cooling by 21 percent during the summer.

The ability to retrofit the system into existing buildings, lowering costs for owners and tenants, means the potential market is vast. About 14 percent of total U.S. energy production goes to cooling residential and commercial buildings. The Department of Energys moonshot ARPA-E program, which provided $3 million to the SkyCool researchers in 2012, found that advanced radiative cooling panels could cut 10 to 20 percent of that use, and reduce peak load demands on the electricity grid.

But far larger energy savings may be possible for developers who opt to incorporate radiative cooling systems directly into new buildings during the design phase, says Nick Fernandez, an energy analyst at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. If the system were coupled with a hydronic radiant cooling systema rare but highly efficient way of cooling buildings that works by circulating water instead of blowing airthe energy savings for heating, cooling, and ventilation could reach nearly 70 percent in ideal climate conditions, according to a simulation analysis published in 2015, on which Fernandez was the lead author.

SkyCool isnt the only company going after this market. In February, a team of engineers at the University of Colorado, Boulder, published a paper in Science describing a glass-polymer hybrid material that achieved noon-time radiative cooling power of 93 (watt per square meter) under direct sunshine. The researchers stressed that theyve already figured out how to affordably manufacture rolls of the film-like material, making it a potentially viable large-scale technology for both residential and commercial applications, according to a university publication.

Like the Stanford team, the CU Boulder researchers raised money from ARPA-E, applied for a patent, and formed a company, Radi-Cool. The scientists are in talks with potential investors and manufacturers, says Ronggui Yang, a professor of mechanical engineering, who is a coauthor of the paper and acting CEO of the startup.

SkyCool's researchers, who have secured a limited amount of additional federal and private funding, continue to improve the efficiency of the advanced materials. Raman, the startups CEO, declines to discuss eventual product pricing, but he believes that any up-front costs will be offset by long-term energy savings. If a rooftop radiator of the type SkyCool is developing could be produced and installed for less than 58 cents per square foot, the energy savings would cover those costs in about five years, the Pacific Northwest Lab study estimated.

The company is carrying out a field trial of its latest generation of panels in Davis, California, about two hours away from Burlingame in the Central Valley, evaluating the technology as a way to augment both air-conditioning and commercial refrigeration systems.

SkyCools next major milestone will be a large-scale demonstration with an early customer or partner, which Raman and Goldstein hope to begin next year. They are targeting businesses with large cooling needs, such as supermarkets and data centers, where any energy savings add up fast. Talks with potential clients have already begun.

by James Temple, MIT Technology Review.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.
The novel research conducted on color Doppler Fetal Intelligent Navigation Echocardiography (5D Heart Color) will be published in the October 2017 issue of the scientific journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology (UOG).

Samsung Medison, a global medical equipment company and an affiliate of Samsung Electronics, is hosting a number of seminars at the 27th World Congress of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology (ISUOG) in Vienna. Through 13 sessions at Samsungs Satellite Symposium, leading medical professionals are publicizing the clinical benefits of Samsungs ultrasound imaging solutions for womens health.

Professor Lami Yeo, M.D., from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, US, presented research on the diagnostic performance of Fetal Intelligent Navigation Echocardiography (5D Heart) which showed a sensitivity of 98%, specificity of 93%, and accuracy of 95% for the prenatal detection of congenital heart disease. She also explained that 5D Heart offers a rapid and simple solution to screen for and diagnose congenital heart disease by generating nine standard fetal echocardiography views in a single template display.

Additionally, novel research conducted on color Doppler Fetal Intelligent Navigation Echocardiography (5D Heart Color) will be published in the October 2017 issue of the scientific journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology (UOG), which will also feature on its front cover, the prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease using 5D Heart color.

In addition recently developed diagnostic tools such as E-Cervix, Crystal Vue and IOTA-ADNEX from Samsungs Crystal Clear Cycle, the lifelong healthcare solution for women, are also being presented throughout the congress.

Samsung also displayed prototypes of ultrasound system with new ergonomics and stress-relief transducers, as well as cloud-based IT solution at a private room for selectively invited key opinion leaders. Visitors to the room shared feedbacks that the next-generation product meets the needs of professionals and patients with a form that is entirely unlike the norm. Some also showed positive response to the new IT solution designed to provide efficiency for doctors demanding tasks, and that they look forward to its commercial release.

I believe Samsungs proactive technological developments in ultrasound in recent years are providing quite significant clinical value to the field. Samsung has been releasing machines for users at all levels of expertise, said Dr. Andrew Ngu, former President of the ISUOG. Seeing Samsungs vision for design innovations that enhance user workflow and efficiency, it is not difficult to expect Samsung to play a pivotal role as a game changer for the future ahead.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.
Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers flew over Korean peninsula (Photo: AFP)

Seoul: The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers flew over the peninsula to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets few alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on August 31.

The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be "destroyed" if it refused to end its "reckless" weapons drive.

The subject is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse."

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.
A man who admitted to selling meth and stolen guns is facing charges after impersonating a Drug Enforcement Administration agent, according to charging documents.

Justin Curtis Huckaby, 35, pleaded not guilty to impersonation of a public servant and criminal possession of dangerous drugs, both felonies, in Yellowstone County District Court on Monday. Judge Russell Fagg set bond at $50,000 and required GPS monitoring if Huckaby posts bond.

Huckaby pulled a gun on an acquaintance on July 17, charges state. The acquaintance, a man, had seen Huckaby driving and began following him. The man told investigators he was trying to confront Huckaby about rumors that Huckaby had paperwork showing the man was working with the DEA. The man told investigators he had bought meth from Huckaby in the past but was trying to get clean, and that it could put him in danger if people believed that he was working with law enforcement.

Huckaby saw the acquaintance driving behind him and pulled over near South Park, as did the acquaintance. Huckaby got out of his car wearing a black tactical vest with a holstered gun, as well as a thigh holster and calf holster, both holding guns. Huckaby pointed one of the guns at the man and told him to Back up, back up.

The man told Huckaby to pull the trigger, and then Huckaby got in his car and drove away, charges state. Huckaby then called the man a half hour later and asked him to meet. The man agreed, still worried that the rumors about him could jeopardize his safety, charges state.

When they met at a casino, Huckaby jumped out of his car, still wearing the vest and guns, and began yelling that he was a DEA agent and the man was messing up his investigation. Huckaby said he was the one whod put a mutual acquaintance in jail and was going to bust another person and her drug sources as well.

When a police officer later found Huckaby parked at a motel parking lot and searched his truck, he found meth, a semi-automatic pistol, magazines and ammunition.

In an interview later with a detective, Huckaby said hed gotten involved with people dealing meth three months earlier and had helped them transport and sell the drug, also using it himself. He said hed transported two to four pounds of meth into Billings.

Huckaby also told the detective he had sold three guns he knew were stolen.

Huckaby has previous felony theft charges from Los Angeles, and a criminal history in Alabama and Florida as well, prosecutors said in court Monday.
US Air Force B-1B bomber drops a bomb as it flies over the Korean Peninsula during a joint drill

The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Koreas latest nuclear and missile tests, South Koreas defence ministry said.

The flight was to demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Koreas nuclear and missile threats, the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets flew alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of routine training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies.

Separately, China and Russia began a joint naval exercise east of the Korean peninsula.

The drill will be held in waters between the Russian port of Vladivostok and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, further north, the Chinese defence ministry said.

Chinese independent military analyst Wei Dongxu said it was mainly a submarine hunting exercise and not directly related to the situation on the Korean peninsula.

However, it demonstrates a common determination to maintain regional stability and deter forces or countries from trying to move into the northeast Asia area, he said. The UN Security Council last week imposed a fresh set of sanctions on North Korea over its missile and atomic weapons programmes, though Washington toned down its original proposals to secure support from China and Russia.

Moscow backs Beijings proposal for a freeze on North Koreas nuclear and missile tests in exchange for a suspension of US-South Korea military drills, which China blames for fanning regional tensions.
Islamabad: Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah will foray into Pakistan's political scene by contesting the 2018 general elections, a senior member of the outfit said, a day after its candidate finished third in a crucial by-poll.

Last month, Jamaat-ud-Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, announced that it was launching the Milli Muslim League.

Sheikh Yaqoob, a JuD-backed candidate who was defeated by ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's wife Kuslsoom from a parliamentary seat that fell vacant after he was disqualified by the Supreme Court, said the new front "will field candidates in every constituency of the country in next year's election."

Yaqoob wanted to contest Sunday's election from Milli Muslim League, launched just before the NA-120 by-poll, but could not do so as the Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to register it as a political party. Yaqoob was placed in 2012 on a US Treasury sanctions list of those designated as leaders of terrorist organisations, The New York Times reported.

"We have got a very good response in NA-120. It was our first election and people have welcomed us," said Yaqoob, who contested as an independent candidate.

"We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies. India, United States and Israel and at the same time help them in solving their basic livelihood problems," he said.

The JuD formed Milli Muslim League at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti-terrorism act.

The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.
The mortal remains of Arjan Singh  Marshal of the Indian Air Force  was consigned to the flames at a solemn military ceremony here as the nation bids farewell to one of its most valiant warriors.



The last rites of Singh, who led the IAF during the 1965 war against Pakistan, was marked by a fly-past of three Su-30 MKI aircraft in the missing man formation and group flying by three Mi-17V5 aircraft carrying the national flag as well as the IAF flag under-slung.



The missing man formation is an aerial salute performed as part of a flypast at a funeral or memorial event, typically in memory of a fallen pilot, a well-known military service member or a veteran. This is a rare honour, reserved only for the bravest in the armed forces.



The funeral was preceded by a 17 gun salute as the funeral was held in state honours. The national flags atop government buildings in Delhi will fly half-mast on Monday as a mark of respect for the departing soul.



Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and BJP veteran L K Advani were among the political leaders who attended the ceremony at the Brar Square in Delhi cantonment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his respect to Singh at his home on Sunday night.



The ceremony was in stark contrast to the treatment accorded to Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw  the General who led the country to a glorious victory in the 1971 war - in his last journey in 2008.



Neither then defence minister A K Antony, nor the three Service Chiefs were present at the cremation ceremony of Sam Bahadur in Wellington near Ooty in Tamil Nadu.



While all three Service Chiefs and a Union Cabinet Minister attended Field Marshal K M Cariappa's cremation in 1993, the senior most political representative at Manekshaw's funeral was Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju and the armed forces were led by Vice-Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen M L Naidu.



This triggered a volley of protests and resentments among the armed forces community.



The NDA government, on the contrary, decided to bestow state honours to the Marshal of the Air Force  the only five-star officer in the IAF, equivalent to a Field Marshal. His body was driven in a gun carriage from his residence in central Delhi (7 Kautilya Marg) to the creation ground in the western part of the city.



His son Arvind Singh, who flew in from the USA, lit the pyres as a Sikh priest chanted the religious hymns (Ardas)


US President Donald Trump makes his debut at the United Nations on Monday, with an address on UN reform as a week of intense diplomacy kicks off, dominated by worries about North Korea, Iran and Myanmar.



Trump, who once disparaged the world body as a "club" for "people to get together, talk and have a good time," will lay out his views on how to improve the United Nations a day before he makes his first address to the General Assembly.



About 130 world leaders are attending this year's global gathering, but all eyes will be on Trump, whose "America First" agenda has alarmed both allies and foes.



The UN's number one financial backer, the United States has threatened deep cuts to UN funding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said would create an "unsolvable problem" for the world body.



Guterres, who is pushing for an overhaul of the UN bureaucracy, will also address the event at which leaders will sign a pledge of support for reform.



France and Russia have reacted coolly to the US initiative, amid concerns that the US administration is focused more on cost-cutting than improving the UN's performance.



US Ambassador Nikki Haley was a driving force behind a $600-million-dollar cut to the UN peacekeeping budget this year.



Haley on Friday pointed to the more than 120 countries that back the US-drafted political declaration on UN reform as a "miraculous number," showing there is support for a "massive reform package" led by Guterres.



On Monday, Trump will hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, who will also be making his maiden address at the General Assembly on Tuesday, and with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.



Both Macron and Netanyahu are expected to raise the future of the Iran nuclear agreement, with the French leader making a strong case for keeping it alive and the Israeli prime minister pushing for its demise.



Trump will also have a working dinner with Latin American leaders that will touch on the crisis in Venezuela.



North Korea's nuclear and missile tests will be in the spotlight with foreign ministers set to discuss enforcing sanctions against Pyongyang during a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation on Thursday.



Also on Thursday, Trump will be holding talks with Japanese and South Korean leaders who have backed the US drive to ratchet up sanctions on North Korea.



The council last week imposed a new raft of measures such as a ban on export textiles and a cap on oil shipments to pile pressure on Pyongyang to come to the table and negotiate an end to its nuclear and missile programs.



Russia and China, however, are calling for diplomatic talks with North Korea while warning that a military option as suggested by the United States would have catastrophic consequences.



British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will host a meeting on the military campaign in Myanmar which the United Nations has described as "ethnic cleansing" after more than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims were forced to flee.



The closed-door meeting will be attended by a representative from Myanmar and by foreign ministers from "a range of countries with a strong interest in seeing an end to the violence there," a British diplomat said.



Ahead of the opening of the General Assembly, UN member-states will discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Irma that devastated parts of the United States and the Caribbean.



The hurricane disaster offers a reminder of the destructive force of nature as leaders set their sights on implementing the Paris agreement on climate change despite the US withdrawal from the deal.
Amid mounting pressure from the Opposition for a floor test, 18 AIADMK rebel MLAs, supporting ousted leader T T V Dhinakaran, were disqualified by the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker on Monday under the anti-defection law.



The rebel MLAs had withdrawn support to Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. Assembly secretary K Boopathy said the disqualified rebel legislators had lost their membership of the Assembly with immediate effect. The disqualification was under the 1986 law created under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution.



The disqualified legislators were also asked to vacate from the MLA hostel immediately. Though the MLAs were disqualified on the grounds of defection, all 18 rebels have neither officially resigned from the party nor joined any other political outfit.



Soon after the merger between the Palaniswami faction and the O Panneerselvam group, 19 dissident legislators submitted individual letters to Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao withdrawing their support to the chief minister and demanded his resignation.



Even as the Speaker on September 8 issued show cause notices to the dissident members under the anti-defection law and asked them to appear before him, Cumbum legislator S T K Jakkaiyan shifted from the rebel camp to the Palaniswami group. Except Jakkaiyan, who appeared before the Speaker, the rest of the rebel MLAs sought more time.



The total strength of the Tamil Nadu Assembly is 234. However, the effective strength is 233 following the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa. The ruling AIADMK has 135 MLAs including Speaker. The DMK and its allies have 98 legislators. (DMK - 89, Congress - 8, IUML -1).



Following the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs, the total strength of the assembly came down to 215. Similarly, the AIADMKs strength also came down from 135 to 117. However, the stance of three MLAs, Thaniarasu, Thamim Ansari and Karunas, who won on AIADMK symbol, is still unknown - whether they would support Dhinakaran or Chief Minister Palaniswami.



If the floor test is held, Palaniswamis government would need support of 108 MLAs out of the total 215 for a majority to retain power. Even if the undecided MLAs go ahead and support Dhinakaran, Palaniswami will still have the support of 113 MLAs (excluding speaker) to prove his majority.



Reacting to the disqualification of the MLAs supporting him, Dhinakaran said his faction will move the court against the Speakers action. Various leaders, including the Opposition DMKs working president M K Stalin, condemned the Speakers action of disqualifying the rebel legislators.
Amit Shah, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president on Monday said that he had seen Mayaben Kodnani, the accused in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case, in Gujarat Assembly and then at Sola Civil Hospital on February 28, 2002.



Kodnani is one of the key accused in Naroda Gam case where 11 persons from minority community were killed in riots that broke out across Gujarat post burning of Sabarmati Express near Godhra, killing 58 persons.



Deposing before the special designated court of Justice P B Desai, Amit Shah submitted that, Mayaben was not at Naroda Gam but in the state Assembly at 8.30 am. Later, I was at the (Sola) Civil Hospital where I met Maya Kodnani.



Shah said that he was visiting Sola civil hospital that was located in his electoral constituency. It is at this hospital that the bodies of Godhra train massacre victims had been brought in 2002. Shah said that Kodnani was seen consoling families of those killed in Godhra attack when he reached there.



Amit Shah said that he had seen Mayaben at Assembly at 8.30 am and later at civil hospital at around 11.00 am to 11.30 am. When asked where she was in the interim, Amit Shah expressed ignorance, Shamshad Pathan, lawyer for families of victims of Naroda Gam, told mediapersons.



Witnesses have alleged in the court that Kodnani led the rioters in Naroda Gam between 9.30 am and 10,00 am. We have been saying that Mayaben was at the venue of Naroda Gam riots between 9.00-10.00 am and if you see Amit Shahs testimony, it points to her presence, Imtiaz Qureshi, victim of Naroda Gam violence, said.



Shah was appearing before the court following summons issued after Maya Kodnani claimed that despite repeated attempts she had failed to get BJP chief to depose as her defence witness. She wanted him to appear and prove her alibi that she was not present at the scene of violence but in the Assembly and at Sola civil hospital. Kodnani, who is one of the 82 accused, had enlisted 14 witnesses, 13 of whom had already deposed before Shah did on Monday.



Naroda Gam case is one of the nine major cases of 2002 riots that were investigated by a Special Investigation Team appointed by the Supreme Court. So far, 187 witnesses have been examined by prosecution and 58 by defence side in the case.



When SIT prosecution lawyer asked Shah why he had not testified in another riot case of Naroda Patiya, where Kodnani was found guilty and sentenced to 28 years in jail, Shah said that though Mayaben was with him, she had not seek his testimony and that he was neither summoned nor approached by prosecution or defence side.



In Naroda Patiya, located next to Naroda Gam, 97 persons from minority community, including women and children, were killed in violence on the same day as Naroda Gam.



Now that Shahs statement has been taken, the case enters argument stage and the court would be able to deliver its judgement. The victims, who have been waiting for justice for last 15 years would get it, Pathan said.



Maya Kodnani  The journey so far



Early Life



* Studied at a Gujarati-medium school founded by her father at Deesa, Banaskantha district, N. Gujarat, known more as a potato growing hub



* Pursued MBBS & Diploma in Gynaecology & Obstetricsfrom Baroda Medical College

Joined Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, RSS womens wing.



* Moved to Ahmedabad. Set up Shivam Maternity Hospital in Sindhi-dominated Kubernagar area near Naroda in Ahmedabad.



Political Journey



* Became BJP candidate from Saijpur Bogha ward in Ahmedabad civic polls in 1995

* Elevated to chairman of the Standing Committee.

* 1998 - Elected to Gujarat Legislative Assembly on a BJP ticket from Naroda constituency.

* 1998-2000: General Secretary & later chief of Gujarat BJP Mahila Morcha.

* 2000-2005: First woman president of Ahmedabad BJP.

* 2002, 2007: Kodnani wins Assembly polls from Naroda with massive margins.

* 2007: Appointed as Gujarats minister of state for women and child welfare in government led by Narendra Modi



Naroda Patiya Massacre



* February 28, 2002: Burning of Sabarmati Express near Godhra killing 58 Kar Sevaks on way back from Ayodhya to Ahmedabad

* February 28, 2002: Riots broke out across the state, including in Naroda Patiya area, part of Naroda constituency represented by Maya Kodnani.

* As many as 97 persons, including women and children, were killed in communal clashes.



Naroda Gam Massacre



* February 28, 2002: Naroda Gam, which too falls under Kodnanis Naroda constituency, too was caught amidst 2002 communal riots in Ahmedabad.

* As many as 11 persons were killed in Naroda Gam, situated next to Naroda Patiya.

* Kodnani accused of instigating Naroda Gam riots, firing pistol and distributing arms that she apparently carried to the area in her car.



Post 2002 riots



* Supreme Court appointed Special Investigation Team makes Kodnani an accused in both Naroda Patiya and Naroda Gam riot cases

* SIT declares Kodnani an absconder as she fails to respond to its requests for deposition

* March 2009: Kodnani arrested, resigns as minister

* August 31, 2012: A special SIT court convicts and sentences Kodnani to 28 years in prison, describing her as the kingpin of the massacre

* April 2013: Gujarat government decides to seek death penalty for Kodnani by filing an appeal in Gujarat High Court against Special courts judgment in the case

* May 2013: Gujarat government withdraws its decision to seek death penalty

November 2013: Kodnani granted interim bail of three months for treatment of intestinal TB

* July 30, 2014: Gujarat High Court accepts Kodnanis plea for a regular bail on grounds of ill-health.

* April 13, 2017: Special court accedes to Kodnanis request to summon 14 defence witnesses, including BJP national president Amit Shah to verify her claim that she was at Gujarat Assembly and later at Sola civil hospital on the day Naroda Gam massacre took place

* September 12, 2017: Special court summons Amit Shah after Kodnani claims that she is unable to trace him despite repeated attempts

* September 18, 2017: Amit Shah testifies in favour of Maya Kodnani saying that he had seen her in Gujarat Assembly and at Sola Civil Hospital on the fateful day of February 28, 2002.
The Centre on Monday contended before the Supreme Court that illegal immigration of Rohingya has serious security ramifications.



Many of them have figured in the sinister design of ISI/ISIS and other extremist groups for their ulterior motives of communal flare-up and sectarian violence in sensitive areas, the Union government claimed.



The continuity of Rohingya immigration and their stay here... will have a very serious adverse impact on the fundamental rights of Indian citizens to share the natural resources of the country, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in an affidavit.



Some of the Rohingya with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal and national security of India, it maintained. The deportation of immigrants will take place in a just and fair procedure established by law, it added.



The government also pointed out that due to an already existing large influx of illegal immigrants from the neighbouring countries, the demographic profile of some of the bordering states has already undergone a serious change, thereby causing the far-reaching complications with a direct detrimental effect on the fundamental and basic human rights of countrys own citizens.



The affidavit, clarifying the governments stand, was filed after a three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice Dipak Misra granted permission for it to Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.



The court, which put the matter for consideration on October 3, said it would examine if it has jurisdiction to entertain a plea made by two Rohingya Muslims  Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir. It also refused to issue notice to the NHRC in the matter.



The petitioners, along with others, have challenged the governments move to deport 40,000 Rohingya Muslims to their home country Myanmar.



Senior advocates F S Nariman, Kapil Sibal, Rajeev Dhawan, Colin Gonsalves, Ashwini Kumar and Prashant Bhushan appeared before the court to oppose the governments decision.



Among other grounds, the government claimed that a fragile north-eastern corridor may become further destabilised in case of stridency of Rohingya militancy is allowed to continue.



The government also said many Rohingya have managed to avail the 12-digit Aadhaar and PAN cards through forged documents. It also expressed its readiness to give inputs from the security agencies and details gathered during other sensitive investigations right from 2012-13 in a sealed cover to support its contention.
Jailed Dera Sacha Sauda chief's adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan tops the list of 43 persons 'wanted' by the Haryana Police in connection with incidents of violence that followed Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's conviction in a rape case.



Earlier, a lookout notice was issued against Honeypreet Insan and Dera spokesman Aditya Insan, whose name also figures in the 'wanted' list. The photos of 43 persons on the 'wanted' list have been posted on the official web portal of Haryana Police, the police said today.



Earlier, Haryana police had requested the general public and media to send videos or photographs of the violence that rocked Panchkula on August 25. Police said they had received several photos and videos so far, out of which 43 persons were identified and their photos uploaded in connection with the incidents of violence in Panchkula, which left 35 dead. Six persons had died in incidents of violence in Sirsa.



Panchkula Police Commissioner A S Chawla said the general public has been requested to come forward and share any information which they may have about the accused. The identity of those giving information leading to their arrest will be kept a secret, he said.



Honeypreet is the only woman in the 'wanted' list. Most of the other accused are youths and some of them can be seen carrying 'lathis' in their hands. The 'wanted' list begins with photos of Honeypreet and Aditya, police said.



Haryana Police said it was collecting videos from various sources pertaining to incidents of violence which broke out in Panchkula and was trying to identify the accused involved in inciting violence and indulging in acts of arson.



The Haryana Police made several arrests after violence broke out in Panchkula that includes Dera Sacha Sauda chief's top aide and spokesperson Dilawar Insan, who was arrested from Sonepat, on September 15.



Pradeep Goyal Insan, a Dera functionary, was arrested yesterday from Udaipur in Rajasthan by a Special Investigation Team of the Haryana Police.



Prakash alias Vicky, who is brother-in-law of Aditya Insan, was also nabbed yesterday from Mohali, Panchkula's Deputy Commissioner of Police, Manbir Singh had said.



The police had earlier also arrested Dera's state body member Gobind Insan. The Haryana Police had earlier sent a team to Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh bordering Nepal in search of Honeypreet, a close confidant of the self-styled godman who is serving a 20-year-old jail term for raping two disciples.



Officials of the Uttar Pradesh police had earlier said that Honeypreet's photographs were pasted at police stations bordering Nepal.



The police had on September 1 issued a lookout notice for Honeypreet and Aditya, fearing that they could flee the country.



Police have intensified efforts to trace Honeypreet, who describes herself as "Papa's angel", after it arrested and questioned another sect functionary, Surinder Dhiman Insan, in connection with an alleged conspiracy to help Ram Rahim escape after his conviction on August 25.



Earlier, Panchkula Police Commissioner, A S Chawla had said that police needs to question Honeypreet regarding the disclosures made by Surinder Dhiman and some other arrested accused.



The 50-year-old Dera chief, who is lodged in the Sunaria Jail in Rohtak, had been sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment by the CBI court for the 2002 rapes of two of his disciples.


Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers staged "mock bombing drills" over the peninsula this morning, South Korea's Yonhap news agency said, citing an unidentified Seoul government source.



If confirmed, they would be the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.



The US jets trained together with four South Korean F-15K jet fighters before returning to their bases in Japan and Guam, Yonhap quoted the source as saying.



The previous such flights were on August 31. The US military could not immediately confirm the latest flights.



The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be "destroyed" if it refused to end its "reckless" weapons drive.



Efforts to tame the increasingly belligerent North are set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.



Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.



The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.



Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse."



Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.



Trump's National Security Advisor HR McMaster said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.

The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula today in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, a report said.


Any clear moves to block the refugees' return will likely anger Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina, who will press the General Assembly to raise global pressure Myanmar to take back all the Rohingya massing in shanty towns and camps near the border.



Human Rights Watch also called for the "safe and voluntary return" of the displaced as it urge governments around the globe to punish Myanmar's army with sanctions for the "ongoing atrocities" against the Rohingya.



"The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims," the group said in a statement.



Myanmar's military was hit with Western sanctions during its 50-year rule of the country. But most have been lifted in recent years as the generals have allowed a partial transition to democracy.



"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," said John Sifton, HRW's Asia advocacy director.



Nobel peace laureate Suu Kyi has shocked the international community with her near-silence on the plight of the Rohingya and her failure to condemn the actions of the army, with whom she has a delicate power-sharing arrangement.



Speaking to the BBC over the weekend, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called Suu Kyi's upcoming address a "last chance" to stop the unfolding humanitarian calamity.



But analysts say it will be difficult for her to tamp both global outrage and combustible religious tensions at home, where there is broad support among the mainly Buddhist populace for the army's crackdown.

Pressure grew on Myanmar today as a rights group urged world leaders to impose sanctions on its military, which is accused of driving out more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims in an orchestrated "ethnic cleansing" campaign.The call from Human Rights Watch came as the UN General Assembly prepared to convene in New York, with the crisis in Myanmar one of the most pressing topics.It also came on the eve of a highly-anticipated national address by Myanmar's civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi -- her first on the Rakhine crisis.The exodus of Rohingya refugees from mainly Buddhist Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh has sparked a humanitarian emergency. Aid groups are struggling to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children.Myanmar has suggested it will not take back all who had fled across the border, accusing those refugees of having links to the Rohingya militants whose raids on police posts in August triggered the army backlash.
BSP supremo Mayawati on Monday said that the leaders of the opposition parties were being targeted by the central investigating agencies even as she accused prime minister Narendra Modi of going back on his promises made to the farmers.



Addressing a public meeting at Meerut, about 450 kilometres from here, Mayawati also alleged that a conspiracy was hatched to eliminate her during her visit to the village that was rocked by Dalit-Thakur clashes a few months back in Saharanpur district in the state.



''The prevailing situation in the country is worse than Emergency....central agencies like CBI and ED are targeting the opposition leaders,'' she said.



The BSP supremo said that the farmers of the state felt betrayed as the BJP had promised to waive their loans to the tune of Rs. One lakh. ''Many farmers received waiver cheques worth re. one,'' she said.



Mayawati also accused the BJP of engineering Dalit-Thakur clashes in Saharanpur in a bid to gain the sympathy of the Dalit community. ''There was a conspiracy to eliminated me during my visit to Saharanpur,'' she alleged.



She also said that BJP had selected Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the post of President to make a dent into her Dalit vote bank.



Mayawati said that she had resigned from the membership of Rajya Sabha as she was not allowed to speak on the atrocities on the Dalits in UP.



The BSP supremo has planned a series of rallies across the state in the next few months in a bid to regain lost ground and the support of the Dalit community.



BSP had failed to open its account in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and in the recent assembly polls also the party could win only 18 seats.


Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday favoured the move to hold simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. His statement assumes significance as there has been wide speculation that the election to the Bihar Assembly, whose term ends in November 2020, may be advanced and go to polls along with the Lok Sabha elections in May 2019.



If the elections to the Lok Sabha and Assembly are held together, it will not only save time, money and energy but help in carrying out development activities in an unhindered manner once the poll process is over, said Nitish. He was speaking on the sidelines of his weekly public interface programme called Lok Samvad.



Nitish, however, clarified that he would prefer simultaneous polls from 2024 onwards, not 2019.



I would rather suggest that even Panchayat elections should also be tagged along with the Assembly and Parliamentary polls so as to minimise the election expenses, opined Nitish.



This is seen as a major climbdown by the JD (U) strongman who, when in Grand Alliance, had opposed the idea of simultaneous Assembly and Parliamentary polls on the plea that the move needed a constitutional amendment and should be ratified by more than half of the States in India.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a staunch votary of simultaneous polls. The Assembly elections are due in at least five states in 2018 and as many in 2019. The BJP feels the time is ripe to hold simultaneous polls with some of the Assembly term being truncated.



Nitish also supported Modi to keep petroleum products outside the purview of the GST. Of late, the PM has been facing flak for the exorbitant price of oil due to more than 130 percent tax on fuel even though the crude has nosedived since 2014.



I dont think its advisable to bring oil products within the ambit of GST. When a policy decision has been made to revise petroleum price daily, everyone should follow it. Someday it will go up, sometimes the price will come down, argued Nitish.



Speaking against dynasty, Nitish said he never favoured nepotism. In fact, its the Congress which gave birth to dynasty. Otherwise, there have been examples where people from humble backgrounds have reached the top post, averred the Bihar Chief Minister.
In a bid to ensure peaceful and incident free Durga Puja and Moharram, Uttar Pradesh government has banned playing of DJ (Disc Jockey) and imposed limit on the height of Durga idols and 'Tazia' (a replica of the tomb of Hussain, the martyred grandson of Prophet Mohammed, carried at processions during Moharram).



Chief minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the authorities to strictly impose ban on DJ and not to start any new tradition on Durga Puja and Moharram.



''Loudspeakers may be used with the permission of the local authorities,'' a senior government official here said quoting the chief minister.



Incidentally Moharram this year falls a day after the last day of Dussehra festival, when the Durga idols are immersed.



According to the sources here, Adityanath has also asked the authorities to make sure that the Durga idols and 'tazias' are not so high that trees or some other construction would have to be felled or demolished for their passage.



He also made it clear that under no circumstances the routes fixed for the Moharram processions or Durga idols' immersion be changed.



Sources said that the chief minister has warned that the concerned police officials would be taken to task in the event of any incident.



The chief minister has also directed the police officials to identify the criminal and anti-social elements and take stern action against them before the beginning of the festive season.



''Meetings of the peace committees should be held before the Durga Puja and Moharram to solicit cooperation of both communities in peaceful celebration of Durga Puja and during Moharram processions,'' the official said.



UP has a long history of sectarian and communal violence during Durga Puja and Moharram. In the state capital shia and sunni communities often clashed during the Moharram processions.


Elder Grove school officials were pretty sure they had picked the best expansion option to deal with booming enrollment. After a community meeting Thursday night, they feel pretty good about parents and taxpayers agreeing with them.

More than 115 people, all voters from the K-8 school district, cast votes in a straw poll after a presentation about enrollment growth that's straining existing facilities  and it isn't expected to let up.

"The first few weeks (of school) have been quite a trying time for us," principal Nathan Schmitz said, citing issues like higher-than-usual class sizes and a locker shortage.

School officials pitched three options: filling up Elder Grove's existing West End campus, building a second elementary school on a new campus, or building a new middle school on a new campus and converting the existing middle school to elementary space.

The final option met most of the goals created by a series of community meetings last year, and architectural estimates peg the cost a shade below $15 million  barely within the amount of money Elder Grove is legally allowed to bond for. Schmitz and other Elder Grove officials pitched it as the best option to deal with growth, and those at the meeting overwhelmingly agreed; 113 people voted for the new middle school.

"Everything that we're working toward is 'how do we accomodate 1,000 students,'" school board trustee Rich Pope said.

The cheapest option was the expansion of the current campus, but it would have provided only a two- to three-year fix. Officials hope a new middle school could meet enrollment demands for a decade.

Elder Grove has about 630 students this year, about 40 more than accounted for in projections that already expected growth. Its likely that the school will be over state accreditation capacity standards in the next two years.

Its one thing to win a straw poll in a school gymnasium on the heels of a passionate presentation from educators. Its another to get voters to pony up.

Schmitz said its likely that the school board will move to get a bond to pay for a new middle school on a ballot this fall. The boards next meeting is slated for Sept. 26.

Local taxes

Like much of eastern Montana, tax raises have been a tough ask in Elder Grove. The district operates barely above its minimum budget, meaning that voters havent approved many local tax increases. A building reserve levy that would have raised money to purchase land  say, for a new middle school  failed in 2016.

Part of Thursday's meeting included a computer station that could swiftly calculate estimates for property tax impacts of a new school.

This time around, school officials have made the what ifs clear if a bond isnt passed. The school could purchase modular classrooms, which are expensive on a per-classroom cost and dont offer any long-term solutions. Combining with another school district would be a thorny process and likely result in a tax raise for Elder Grove if it did happen.

The worst case scenario for Elder Grove officials is jettisoning seventh- and eighth- graders, perhaps to School District 2. Superintendent Justin Klebe met with SD2 officials earlier this year to discuss to prospect. Elder Grove would have to pay tuition for students  an automatic local levy  and SD2 couldnt provide any guarantees about which middle school students would attend, or if theyd even attend the same school.

This idea that theres a solution out there that costs us nothing  it doesnt exist, Pope said.

The alternatives generated a bit of crowd discussion Thursday night, but most questions revolved around expansion options. How would the district cope in between the time a bond passed and a building was finished? How would it make sure a new school was adequately staffed?

District officials said that passing a bond quickly was the best way to avoid an in-between crunch; they could likely make do over the next two years, even with overcrowding. For staffing, school officials said it was likely theyd offer a levy in the spring to raise local taxes to support year-to-year operating costs.

They also hope it could help with teacher retention. Elder Grove turns over an unusual number of teachers, and the No. 1 reason teachers who leave give for their decision is salary. The school pays about 20 percent less than SD2 for beginning salaries.

The school has several 20-plus-year veteran teachers, Schmitz said, but its losing a pipeline to get there.

Were not building up that 5-, 10-, 15-year veteran status, he said.


The AGP audit report also warned that "in all probabilities, the rooftop of the building will be utilised to install surveillance devices that could be used to monitor government offices in the vicinity".



It acknowledges that the "irregularity" occurred due to the "lack of oversight" and failure of implementation of rules.



Despite constant requests made by the AGP, a department accounts committee meeting could not be held, the report adds.



The audit report has recommended a high-level inquiry against the construction of the building and stresses upon "appropriate corrective action".



The building blueprint was approved in January 2012 by a committee comprising officials of the CDA, representatives of Planning, Emergency and Disaster Management and members nominated by the Pakistan Council of Architects and Town Planners. Not one of them had raised an objection at the time.



After a local intelligence agency raised concerns, the city managers had decided to limit the height of the building.



The new embassy building was inaugurated in July 2015.



"The intelligence agency asked the CDA to explain how it could approve a seven-storey structure in the Diplomatic Enclave and urged the CDA to take appropriate action," the paper added.

Raising objections over a new seven-storey US Embassy building in the diplomatic enclave here, the Auditor General of Pakistan had cautioned that its top floor can be "conveniently" used for surveillance of the government offices in the adjacent areas, a media report said.The US government went ahead with the construction of the building without waiting for the prime minister's approval, Dawn reported.The revelation comes amidst tensions in the ties between Pakistan and the US after President Donald Trump last month hit out at Islamabad for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists.Citing an audit report released by the AGP office, the paper said that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) had withheld the No-Objection Certificate for the US embassy until the approval from the premier, as the CDA can only sanction the construction of up to five-storey buildings in the area."Despite pending approval by the prime minister, construction had started," the audit report says.Citing a report published in Dawn on November 17, 2011, the paper said a CDA official had confirmed that a plan for a new US embassy building had been approved by the authority.The report claims that the CDA chairman had received a letter from security agencies on February 14, 2012, that expressed concerns about the construction of the seven-storey building, saying it "would overtake most of the ministries and other official buildings along the Constitution Avenue".
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat who is on a six day tour in Rajasthan said people who respect cows do not resort to violence.



While addressing RSS workers meeting in Jamdoli near Jaipur he said, "People who revere cows devote themselves to rearing cows. They do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt". His statement comes in the wake of a number of cases of people resorting to violence on the pretext of protecting the cow. He further added, "The rearing of cows provides financial benefits to the people"



RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also met various saints working for social causes during his pravas in Rajasthan. He appreciated the social activities of the saints and discussed on how to expand social welfare schemes. While speaking on the ban of chinese goods he said, " Swadeshi means to use items and products that are made in small and cottage industries. The products provide provides employment to people and manifest a sense of pride within".



RSS chief while addressing the workers insisted for a mutual coperation and expansion of the ideology. At present 1,325 seva activities are being run by the swayamsevaks in Rajasthan region. Out of which 577 are of education, 181 of health, 128 of swavalamban and 439 works of social upliftment.
Within a week of assuming the charges, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman approved a fresh cadre review for the junior commissioned officers and men, impacting the career of nearly 1.45 lakh soldiers of the Indian Army.



The decision, cleared by the ministry on September 14, is the first rationalisation of the men in the Army after more than three decades, as the last such exercise was carried out in 1984.



As a consequence 479 new posts of Subedar Major; 7,769 Subedars; 13,466 Naik Subedar; 58,493 Havildars and 64,930 Naik would be created in the next five years within the existing ranks.



Once these posts are created, there would be 145,137 less sepoys or lance-naik as they would be promoted in these newly created posts with better pay and perks.



The new minimum assured career progression route among the JCOr and ordinary soldiers (Other Ranks in the Army parlance) may encourage more youngsters to join the Army as a soldier. As on January 1, 2017, the Army was having a shortage of 25,472 JCOs and ORs.



The defence ministry sources said the shortfall was not worrying as the deficiency was being made up gradually. Compared to the situation in 2016, when the deficiency figure stood at 35,174 nearly 10,000 men joined the Army as soldiers within a year.



The new cadre review would be implemented in a graded manner in the next five years. In this fiscal, 30% of the new posts would be created. In the next three years, 20% of the posts would be created in each year leaving only 10% posts for the final year. The total additional financial outgo would be about Rs 20 crore, said an official.



Increased education level in the ranks, use of more technologically advanced weapons and long-term commitment for the counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir and the North East were the major driving force behind the cadre review.



The first study on the cadre review was done in 2009, based on which the Army moved a proposal in September 2014.
A 14-year old girl died under mysterious circumstances allegedly after she fell from the roof of her school building in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria town, about 325 kilometres from here, on Monday.



Sanjana (name changed), who was a student of 9th standard at the Modern City Montessori School in the town, was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries on the way.



Police sources here said that girl, a resident of Chakiyawa locality in the town, was last seen on the roof of the school. It was not, however, clear what prompted her to go on to the roof, a place seldom visited by the students.



Sanjana's family members alleged that the girl was pushed from the roof by a school employee and demanded registration of a case against the school management.



''There was no reason for Sanjana to go on the roof...she must have been taken there by someone,'' alleged one of the family members. They also accused the school management of not providing quick treatment to the girl.



A panicky school management closed the institution immediately after the incident. A group of irate parents later held a demonstration before the school and created ruckus in protest against the incident.



The principal of the school Adya Tiwari was absconding after the incident, the police said. ''We are investigating the matter....the principal could not be contacted,'' said a police official in Deoria.



The incident comes close on the heels of murder of a 2nd standard student at Ryan International school at Gurugram a few days back.




Employees will haul up the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) in court for denying recognition to their union by crafty methods.



BMRCL Employees Union vice president Suryanarayana Murthy said following the strike by employees that disrupted metro rail services on July 7, Pradeep Singh Kharola, the Managing Director of the BMRCL, had promised to address our demands, including the recognition of the union. Now, however, the MD says employees cannot be part of the union since they do not come under the category of workmen, he added.



A copy of the letter from the BMRCL, available with DH, says employees performing supervisory works cannot be members of the union.



Section engineers, junior engineers, customer relation officers as well as station controllers/train operators have been made members of the employees union. These employees are performing supervisory functions in their respective fields. As per (the) law, employees performing supervisory works cant be members of the union, it says. Kharola could not be reached for comment.



A source in the BMRCL, however, said the company was worried that recognising the union would allow employees to hold the corporation to ransom. We cant allow a situation where an essential service like the metro is disrupted at the drop of a hat. We have internal platforms and various mechanisms to resolve the grievances. We dont want travellers to suffer because of minor issues, the source said.



Murthy alleged that the BMRCL was employing crafty methods to sidestep their genuine grievances. There has been no wage revision for seven years. Employees neither get a lunch break nor do they have a canteen or toilets. These are the basic issues we are fighting for.



Stating that none of the union members was performing supervisory work, he said they were either assistants, clerks or engineers in the operation and maintenance division. Describing them as supervisors is not true considering the BMRCLs reply to an RTI application that there are 697 workmen, 690 supervisors and 42 officers in the corporation.
A 17-year-old rape survivor from Bengaluru moved the Supreme Court on Monday for the termination of her 25-week pregnancy.



A three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice Dipak Misra directed the head of the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) to set up a medical board on Tuesday to examine her case. The court put the matter for consideration on Thursday.



Advocate Nikhil Nayyar, representing the girl, challenged the order passed by the High Court of Karnataka on August 31, 2017, declining her plea for abortion.



The court sought the opinion of Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar, who submitted that a medical board should be set up at the BMCRI to examine the matter.



The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, ordered constitution of the medical board that would comprise experts from various departments. The boards report would be considered on September 21. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, prohibits abortion of foetus beyond 20 weeks.



The high court had refused the girls plea by saying that the medical opinions tendered by Vani Vilas Hospital on August 28 have pointed out the risks and complications inherent to the second trimester of medical termination of pregnancy. It also noted another opinion given by experts from the MS Ramaiah Medical College that there was no risk in continuing the pregnancy.



The girl, however, expressed unwillingness to continue the pregnancy, saying she wanted to complete her studies. She also sought the courts directions for preserving the terminated foetus for DNA testing and analysis to assist the investigation in the rape case.


Bengaluru let 3.76 tmcft of rainwater and sewage water flow into drains in Tamil Nadu and eventually to the Bay of Bengal, from August 18 to September 7.



The finding of the ongoing Bengaluru Urbanisation and Sustainable Water Management Study comes at a time when the state government is preparing the data on diverting west-flowing rivers to meet the citys water needs. The study by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) focuses on assessing how much water is lost every year and how much can the city hold.



The 3.76-tmcft loss is only from Kommaghatta and Chellaghatta (KC) valleys. This loss is because of silt accumulation in lakes and stormwater drains. The lakes and stormwater drains have lost their water-holding capacity due to the accumulation of silt, which has led to water wastage. The government is unable to withhold even part of the rainwater which the city gets through proper rainwater harvesting (RWH) mechanisms. Instead, its thinking of diverting west-flowing rivers and getting water from Yettinahole, Sharavathi and Netravathi, said Prof T V Ramachandra, of the Centre for Ecological Sciences, IISc, who is conducting the study.



Both KC and Hebbal valleys join at Nagondanahalli village (Ward 94, Hagadur) before flowing to the Dakshina Pinakini River. The capacity of the KC Valley is 5.37 tmcft (measuring 271 sq km) while that of Vrushabhavathi Valley 5.6 tmcft (165 sq km) and Hebbal valley 4.4 tmcft (207 sq km).



Bengaluru gets rainfall of 15.3 tmcft per year. But during the study period, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city received 321 mm rainfall. This apart, 500 mld of sewage flows through sewerage lines every day, of which 470 mld flows through KC Valley.



As per the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) records, only 74,000 out of 9.4 lakh connections have the RWH. The BWSSB has collected Rs 12 crore as penalty from 12,000 connections since last September for not implementing the RWH.



A R Shivakumar, an RWH expert and senior scientist at the Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology (KSCST), said though not all water can be tapped, a lot can be through the RWH. Apart from those in BWSSB limits, around 30,000 households have installed the RWH.



Seema Garg, CEO, Karnataka Lake Conservation and Development Authority, said desilting was an essential part of the detailed project reports that come for approval. But sometimes, the work may not happen for lack of funds. There is, however, a need to desilt drains to improve their water-holding capacity.
The southeast division police of Bengaluru police has arrested an inter-state gang of two from Tamil Nadu and recovered Rs 30 lakh worth of 85 laptops from them.



Ramesh Kaliyappa (27), of Ambur, and Manikantan Shivakumar alias Mani (29),of Chennai, used to target rooms and paying guest accommodations in Bengaluru, where bachelors and software engineers resided, while acting as beggars.



They had a fake medical certificate and acted as deaf and dumb, police said. They mainly operated in Madiwala, Mico Layout, Koramangala, Byatarayanapura and HSR Layout.



Ramesh had been visiting Bengaluru since 2015 and stayed in low-cost hotels. He would do a recce of homes that he could target early in the morning. He stole laptops through windows, and sometimes through the main doors, added the police. Manikantan runs a laptop sales and service shop in Chennai and used to sell stolen goods for higher price, the police said.
For those with disabilities, much of the burden is placed on individuals and families in need, or federally-funded institutions whose running 
A section of Congress leaders is said to be mounting pressure on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to contest from North Karnataka region in the next Assembly polls to counter the BJP, which is planning to field its chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa from the region.



Excise Minister R B Timmapura has reportedly urged Siddaramaiah to contest from any of the constituencies in Bagalkot district. Similarly, senior leader and former minister Satish Jharkiholi is learnt to have requested Siddaramaiah to contest from Athani constituency in Belagavi district.



The leaders are of the view that Siddaramaiah contesting from North Karnataka will not only help the party counter Yeddyurappa if the he decides to contest from a constituency in North Karnataka but also boosts the morale of the Congress workers in the region. The party high command has already declared that the next election will be fought under Siddaramaiahs leadership.



Congress sources said Siddaramaiah had been planning to contest from the Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysuru district in the next polls, leaving the Varuna seat to his son Dr Yatindra. It is also speculated that the party may ask him to contest from two places  one from south and another from North Karnataka. Currently, Siddaramaiah is a MLA from Varuna.



Speaking to reporters on Monday, KPCC working president S R Patil said the party workers are demanding that Siddaramaiah should contest from a constituency in Bagalkot district in the next election. But nothing has been finalised yet, he added.



Patil also said the BJPs decision to field Yeddyurappa from North Karnataka will not have any impact on the Congress in the election. Why Yeddyurappa? Let both Modi (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and Amit Shah (BJP national president) contest from North Karnataka. The Congress is not worried, he stated.



Ready contest from anywhere: CM



Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Monday that he was open to the idea of contesting the next Assembly election from north Karnataka.



Many people have invited me to contest from North Karnataka. Once in the past, I contested the Lok Sabha elections from Koppal. Im ready to contest from any part of the state. The final decision will be taken by the party high command, Siddaramaiah told reporters in Chikkaballapur where he inaugurated various developmental works.



In the 1991 Lok Sabha polls, Siddaramaiah, then a Janata Dal candidate, lost to the Congress Basavaraj Patil Anwari from Koppal.


Adult children of a man arrested for interference with a police officer allege Casper police refused to present a warrant and then used excessive force when taking him into custody. Police maintain the officers acted appropriately and the mans injuries were the unfortunate result of him refusing to comply with lawful police authority.

But in an unusual turn, the debate over force played out on social media, with both the mans family and police using Facebook to state their case.

Christopher Benson, 58, was arrested Sept. 5 on a charge of interfering with a peace officer as police attempted to arrest him on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear for a court date. That night, his son posted photos to social media documenting injuries Benson suffered while being arrested, including a dislocated pinkie finger. In the Facebook post, Lazarus Benson said officers knocked his father unconscious during the arrest.

This is why we need body cameras, so we know what kind of officers we have, Lazarus Benson wrote in the post, which was shared with his 3,499 Facebook friends and made visible to the public.

The police department responded on its Facebook account two days later, giving its account of the incident. The post said Benson twice refused to step outside of his apartment and speak to officers before they attempted to place him under arrest.

Chris Benson actively resisted arrest, kicking an officer in the groin, the post stated. After a brief struggle officers were able to place Chris Benson in handcuffs.

Bensons family members said the departments version of events was inaccurate and downplayed the gravity of the incident that hospitalized their father.

A police sergeant later said officers acted appropriately in arresting Benson and the mans injuries were the result of him refusing to listen to police commands.

The last thing (an officer) wants to do is injure anyone, Casper police Sgt. Ryan Dabney said by phone Wednesday.

The Benson family and police werent the only ones with an opinion on the arrest. Within a short time, hundreds of people had joined the debate via their computers and smartphones.

Officers account

The story presented in court documents filed on behalf of the police department mirrors the narrative presented by the department on social media.

Officers had been tipped by a neighbor that Benson lived in a drug house, according to the documents.

The documents allege that Benson had hid his left hand behind an open door when officers arrived at his house, and when officers told Benson they had a warrant for his arrest, he refused to step outside.

The documents state that two officers attempted to force Benson outside, and he wedged himself in the door frame. An officer hit Benson, who kicked the officer in the groin.

The officers eventually dislodged Benson and wrestled him into handcuffs in his front yard, according to the documents.

Benson had injured his pinkie finger and officers called for an EMS unit, the documents state. After paramedics arrived, Bensons daughter, Juanita Whitmore, arrived and told them Benson had epilepsy, the documents state.

Family disputes details

Bensons son, Lazarus Benson, told the Star-Tribune that his fathers left hand was not hidden behind the door but instead was holding the door open. He said police had refused to present the warrant to his father.

Lazarus Benson said he was not there at the time of his fathers arrest.

Whitmore said she had arrived at her fathers house well before paramedics arrived and had initially told police about her fathers medical condition. Court documents do not specifically state when Whitmore arrived, except to say that she appeared after paramedics were there.

Whitmore disputes this, saying she had arrived by 3 p.m., in time to see officers subduing her father in front of his house. She said when she arrived, officers were violently throwing her father to the ground. Whitmore said she ran to the scene and told officers, Be careful with him. He has epilepsy.

Officers told Whitmore to return to the sidewalk, she said.

She said she waited for nearly an hour before paramedics arrived to take her father to Wyoming Medical Center.

Marisa Montes, Bensons other daughter, said she arrived at the hospital just after 4:15 p.m.

Once she was allowed in to see her father, Montes said her father appeared dazed and was twitching. In addition to the injured finger, she said she believes her father suffered a seizure after being thrown to the ground.

A CT scan of his head didnt indicate anything unusual, Montes said. Her father is wearing a splint on his finger, which may take months to heal, she said.

Montes said when she asked officers at the hospital what the arrest warrant was for, they told her they did not know.

Police response

Dabney said it was hard to comment on ... someone who wasnt there, in reference to Lazarus Bensons claim that his father was not hiding his left hand.

The sergeant defended officers use of force and said they did what was necessary to apprehend Benson. Dabney said officers had lawful authority, presence and objectives, but Benson responded violently.

We still dont know the full extent of the officers injuries, Dabney said, referring to the police allegation that Benson had kicked an officer in the groin.

Officers do not typically carry around warrants, Dabney said. He said that in this case, officers had received a call from police dispatch and looked up Benson in their computers. When they saw that Benson had a warrant for his arrest, they confirmed that fact with dispatchers before arriving at Bensons house. He said the process that officers took to verify the warrant in this case was typical.

Dabney did not directly comment on Whitmores claims that she had arrived earlier than police indicated in documents and had warned officers about her fathers medical condition. He said that after speaking with both officers and reviewing the court documents, he thought officers stories were consistent.

When asked why officers might not know the reason for an arrest warrant, he said such a situation was not uncommon. Dabney said warrants often arent explanatory on their face, giving as example out-of-state warrants and warrants that are issued for failure to appear in court in a different case.

Dabney said that although officers might be put at risk if they do not know the background of a suspects, that is a safety concern we sign up for.

Facebook back-and-forth

Casper police Sgt. Mike Ogden said the police department uses its Facebook account to help make the department more transparent. He was on vacation during Bensons arrest and the subsequent social media discussion, so he could not comment directly on the specifics of the departments decision to respond online.

Speaking generally about his experience with social media complaints, Ogden said they can typically be attributed to a sometimes ill-informed public leveraging the power and convenience of social media to deal with difficult situations.

No one calls us on a good day, Ogden said.

Citizens complaints are important to the people leveling them, and police take them seriously, Ogden said, even though there are times the department doesnt have the ability to do what citizens ask.

Detective John Hatcher, who manages the departments Facebook account, was not available Friday to comment for this story.

Lazarus Benson said Facebook was the natural medium for him to level his complaint. While some people might be intimidated by challenging the police department, he thought it was important to speak up, he said.

Not a lot of people say anything to them, Benson said. Its just something that I thought people should know.

The post brought public pressure on the department, the younger Benson said. He said he is also in the process of filing an internal affairs complaint.

Community weighs in

The two Facebook posts generated hundreds of responses, ranging from mocking GIFs to thanks directed at the police department to accusations of power abuse.

The majority of responses to Lazarus Bensons post were sympathetic, calling for video surveillance of police officers and alleging other police misconduct, in Casper and elsewhere.

Scores of people commented on the younger Bensons post the night of Sept. 5, including City Council member Amanda Huckabay, who asked him to email Council members.

Lazarus Benson said he had emailed City Council members by that weekend but had not heard back by Thursday night.

Responses to the police department post primarily characterized police actions as appropriate, with a sprinkling of respondents accusing the police of mischaracterizing the incident and misleading the public.

Christopher Benson, for his part, didnt comment on the posts.
New research presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, in Lisbo, Portugal, suggest that non-caloric artificial sweeteners can cause metabolic derangements which up risks of developing type 2 diabetes.

Artificial sweeteners continue to be a controversial health issue: on one hand, they are becoming increasingly popular as people try to reduce their calorie intake and lose weight. But on the other hand, there is this purported link with metabolic syndrome.

In this small study, researchers from the University of Adelaide, in Australia, looked at whether high consumption of artificial sweeteners led to blood sugar dysregulations.

The research involved 27 healthy participants who were assigned to take oral capsules of two different artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), three times a day for two weeks prior to meals. Some were given a placebo instead.

The results show that those whove been taking the capsules had spikes in their blood sugars after meals, suggesting it may impair glucose tolerance over time thereby increasing risks for type 2 diabetes.

Following the release of these findings, many experts including Victor Zammit, a professor of biochemistry at the University of Warwick, have voiced concerns and said that it would be premature to draw any firm conclusions at this stage:

Increased sweetener intake may be associated with other lifestyle elements that may be more direct causes of type 2 diabetes, Zammit recently told a Guardian reporter.

For every study that has linked artificial sweetener consumption with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes, there is another that has found no association.

Furthermore, most studies conducted on artificial sweeteners to date were observational in nature or have only been done on mice. It is unclear how much of this existing data really applies to us humans in a real-world setting.

Based on available evidence, it seems that artificial sweeteners can be helpful for weight loss in some circumstances. However, the effect of artificial sweeteners on disease risk remains inconclusive.

In sum, we need to see the results of larger trials testing in settings truer to real life before well know more about health risks associated with artificial sweeteners.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II will be the first to feature built-in support for Google Assistant. The wireless noise cancelling headphone is expected to launch in the coming weeks.

Bose has been rumoured to be working on an upgraded version of its QuietComfort 35 wireless noise cancelling headphones for some time now. A reference to this updated model had been spotted on the company's own newsletter and it has now appeared on the shelves of Best Buy.

Android Police reports that a person has found a pair of Bose QuietComfort 35 II at a local Best Buy store. Further 9to5Google adds that it is one of the first headphones to feature built-in support for the Google Assistant. The leak coincides with reports stating that a pair of headphones codenamed Bisto are in development and will be the first to feature Google Assistant.

It is not clear whether the second iteration of the QC 35 brings any enhancement other than built-in support for the Assistant. The upgraded model features a new button called Action button on the left earcup that will allow users to summon the Google Assistant. Once activated, Assistant can answer general questions, send or read back text messages or control audio output. Earlier reports said that the upgraded model will allow users to temporarily disable noise cancellation or enable ambient sound to gain better understanding of what's happening around the user.

The same feature can be one of the highly recommended noise cancelling headphones in the market. The retail packaging highlights that the Action button will launch Google Assistant on iOS as well, but Bose might allow iOS users to remap the button to launch Siri instead.

The Bose QuietComfort II is not expected to differ much from the existing model and 'built-in' Google Assistant will be the headline feature. However, the updated QC35 II may offer improved battery life and we will have to wait few more days before Bose makes it official.
Is your phone pure, secure and always up to date? Thats actually Nokias promise, but also what every stock Android-based smartphone boasts. After spending years trying to promote custom interfaces, companies are finally realising that a big subset of the market actually makes buying decisions based on stock Android software. The most recent to realise this, of course, is Xiaomi. And when you do make a stock Android phone, you become direct competitors with Motorola.

The Xiaomi Mi A1 (review) and Moto G5S Plus (review) are identical devices, as far as specifications are concerned. They run stock Android software, sport the same chipset, have similar sized batteries and displays with the same resolution. Barring the Mi and Moto logos, theres precious little to choose from. The two phones even cost the same.

How do you decide which phone to buy, then? Read this comparison, of course!

Build and Design

If you compare dimensions, theres little separating these two devices. The phones are equally tall, wide and punch at the same weight. Sure, the Mi A1 is 2mm taller and 3 grams heavier, but none of that makes a real difference in real world usability. Bringing the competition even closer is the fact that both the phones have metallic bodies.

Personally, we prefer the Mi A1 from a looks point of view, but the Moto G5S Plus feels more tightly packed and sturdier. The metal seems thicker and sturdier, and the body doesnt sound hollow. Motorolas design seems much more seamless, which is something we prefer, against the Mi A1. Wed call this one a tie, but gun to our head, we would have to pick the Moto G5S Plus as the better designed smartphone.

Display

This would have been a second tie in this comparison, but Motorola pulls ahead here. Thats because the Moto G5S Plus presents noticeably more fluid touch experience, while the Mi A1 feels somewhat sticky. Neither phone will miss touches and response times are as fast as youd ever need, but sticky swipes on the Mi A1 make it the less desirable display.

That said, the two phones are evenly matched in terms of colour reproduction, saturation and contrast. Neither has AMOLED level blacks and contrast is just about fine, while colours lack the pop that many are looking for. If a vibrant display is what you want, neither phone really fits the bill, but theyre good enough to allow good video viewing experiences.

Performance

Lenovo and Xiaomi have both installed a few apps on their devices, over and above what pure stock Android brings, but with the Snapdragon 625 chipset and 4GB RAM on each, performance is literally the same. Graphics performance is decidedly same, meaning games and large apps will take some time to load on both, but in-app usability should be unaffected.

The benchmark scores presented below present an objective view of what we found on real world usage. With background activity kept the same, the same apps open simultaneously on the two devices. Both companies have tweaked the camera software to accommodate dual-cameras, but the respective camera apps take pretty much the same time to open. The Mi A1 is slightly faster in processing photos, though.

In overall terms, we couldnt separate the two phones based on performance. Both phones get slightly warm when gaming, but stay within reasonably levels of heating. The Snapdragon 625 continues balancing heat, thermals and battery efficiency well, leaving little to question. Neither phone is blazing fast, but both are dependable and will easily get the job done.

Battery

As mentioned in the beginning, the batteries on these phones are similarly sized. With the same software, processor and display resolution/size, there battery lives remain similar too. Both phones will get your from dawn to dusk with ease, but will need a charge every night. Heavier users may need a charge in between, but that is only if you gave for long hours or shoot lots of videos. In general usage, these phones get by a work days use, which seems to be the industry standard today.

Wed hope for better battery lives on smartphones in future, but battery technology doesnt seem to be progressing as fast as other things.

Camera

The difference in these two phones basically comes down to the camera. As is characteristic of Xiaomi, the company put the more premium wide angle+telephoto combination on its budget device. On the other hand, the Moto G5S Plus carries the RGB+monochrome combination, albeit with a software driven depth mode built into the camera app. Both carry 13MP dual-sensors on the back.

Regular Shooting

On side-by-side analysis, it becomes quite evident that the Mi A1 has a noticeably better camera. The phone accomplishes higher levels of detail and reproduces colours more accurately. In low light photos, the Mi A1 generates more detail, although it loses colour balance sometimes. The Moto G5S Plus doesnt produce accurate colours in low light either, choosing slightly warmer tones than is natural. Some may find this attractive, but visible noise (thanks to lower-grade sensors) is inescapable.

100% crop of photos taken by the Moto G5S Plus (left) and Xiaomi Mi A1 (right)

Daylight shot where the Moto G5S Plus (right) messes up the colours against the Mi A1's true to source photo (left)

Original Image, shot indoors in natural light

100% crop of images taken by Moto G5S Plus (left) and Xiaomi Mi A1 (right)

Photo taken indoors, in incandescent light using the Moto G5S Plus (left) and Xiaomi Mi A1 (right)

It is worth noting though that the monochrome+RGB combination on the Moto G5S Plus produces better colours than the Mi A1 often, especially if you use the HDR mode.

Depth Effects

Bokeh or the depth effect is the new in-thing in smartphone cameras. Apple introduced it and other brands quickly brought the feature to lower price brackets. The Moto G5S Plus and Mi A1 represent two of the most popular phones to produce bokeh effects.

However, the Moto G5S Plus does this mostly via software, without the help of a telephoto lens. As a result, images seem quite unnatural. The best way to equate this is by citing the lens blur effect on Snapseeds image editing tools. The G5S Plus does use the second sensor to gain depth information, but the Mi A1s telephoto lens is simply more adept at this. The background blur in neither phone matches DSLR quality photos, but the Mi A1s bokeh mode makes for more attractive profile photos on social media.

Its worth noting though that while the Mi A1 produces better edge details, neither phone is very good at this aspect. But, if youre buying a budget device with this aspect of the camera in mind, the Mi A1 is indeed the better choice.

Zoom

The telephoto lens also allows better zooming capabilities on the Mi A1. Xiaomi presents a 1x-2x button right on the viewfinder, allowing you to zoom seamlessly. On the Moto phone, you will need to pinch to zoom, and that will be done digitally. The final results are quite expected, and the Mi A1 produces more detail with its optical zooming capabilities.

Original image, shot without zoom.

2x zoom shot using Moto G5S Plus (left) and the Xiaomi Mi A1 (right)

App and Usability

While both companies have tweaked the camera app to accommodate dual-cameras, the G5S Plus takes noticeably longer to process photos, which is annoying and comes in the way of general usability. Both phones are slow to focus when shooting in low light, but Xiaomis phone does better in other conditions. Overall, Xiaomi once again has an edge here, with zoom and portrait mode buttons placed right on the viewfinder, and faster processing of photos.

Bottomline

In overall terms, this could have easily gone down as a preferred brand wins scenario. However, the camera makes a world of difference here. If dual-cameras is what you want, the Mi A1 is the better device for you. The Moto G5S Plus is better build, and matches the Mi A1 in most respects, but its also not an Android One phone. With Motorola going back on its word for Android N and O updates to some older devices, it seems an Android One phone has a better shot at being pure, secure and always up to date. After all, Google itself promised the Android O and P updates for the Mi A1.
Save my User ID and Password

Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site.

Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site.
Digitimes Research: Top-5 notebook vendors see on-year shipment declines in August

Worldwide top-5 notebook brand vendors' combined shipments grew on month, but decline on year in August. With the consumer notebook sector continuing to lack new innovations to stimulate demand, the overall notebook market may see difficulties growing further by only relying on the contribution from the enterprise area.

Hewlett-Packard (HP), which performed strongly in the 12 months prior to August, only had a single-digit percentage on-year shipment growth in August. Lenovo returned to number two, but its shipments went down by over 10% on year.

Dell achieved on-year growth in August shipments thanks to stable demand from the enterprise sector. Asustek Computer and Acer both saw an increase of over 30% on month in August shipments, but Asustek had weaker output than in August 2016.

Within the top-5 ODMs, Compal Electronics had the highest on-year growth in August thanks to orders from Lenovo and Acer, while Quanta and Pegatron also had on-year shipment growths.

Wistron saw shipments decline in August as the company has been cutting its notebook manufacturing business and looking to gain profits from non-PC product lines. Inventec also suffered an on-year shipment drop because its orders from HP have been gradually taken over by competitors.
In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, a woman ran out of formula for her sick child.

Her neighborhood in Beaumont, Texas, was blocked off by debris and floodwater. It seemed nearly impossible that the formula  a specific and hard-to-find type  would be found and make its way to the mother and child through the hurricanes wreckage.

Eventually, her call for help reached Spencer Pollock, who was stationed at the Red Cross headquarters in Houston. The executive director of the Wyoming branch of the organization went to work to find a solution.

He called stores in the area, but nobody had the special formula in stock. He called hospitals and clinics  nothing. Finally, he tracked down two cans of the special formula sitting in the back of a local salesmans car. Pollock contacted a local helicopter pilot, who then flew the life-saving formula to the mother.

Those are the ones that make you smile when you look back on it  that theres a mom and a little child that are doing just fine now, Pollock said.

Except for a brief trip home to Wyoming, Pollock has been working in Houston for the past three weeks. He and more than a dozen others, both Red Cross volunteers and staff, uprooted their lives in the days after the hurricane and traveled to Texas.

Theres so much need down here in Texas, from down in Corpus Christi to really the Louisiana border, Pollock said.

Pollock has been working from Houston and managing relations and requests from outside organizations, news media and donors, as well as local and national politicians. He helped coordinate President Donald Trumps visits to the area and is helping with the expected visit of Rep. Paul Ryan, speaker of the House of Representatives.

One volunteer, Charlie Magee, returned to his Laramie home Sept. 8 after two weeks in Texas. While in the Lone Star State, he spent his nights sleeping in a cot in a sweltering shelter set up in a Baptist church and his days in a red and white emergency response vehicle delivering meals to local residents.

He worked in Corpus Christi and Victoria, where the Guadalupe River still surged almost at road level days after the hurricane passed. He drove past mobile homes marked with red crosses spray painted by first responders. Some trailers were knocked off their foundation.

Some of the things we saw he said Tuesday, trailing off. It was very real.

Magee delivered two hot meals a day to people without electricity or water, sometimes with help from volunteers with the Mexican Red Cross. They called Come on out, hot food, Red Cross over the trucks sound system as they drove down streets. After a few days, the residents began to recognize the trucks and call the workers by name.

As electricity and water services returned, Magee watched as the residents lives returned to a semblance of normal. Now able to obtain their own food and cook, the people no longer needed the Red Cross meals as much but still went out to thank Magee and his partner.

The vehicles kind of symbolized hope, he said. I could see it in their eyes.
Subscriber content preview

BEND, Ore. (AP)  Oregon State University-Cascades has received a $1 million donation from the founder of a Bend-based biotechnology company, which will help build the campus' second academic building.

The Bend Bulletin reported Thursday that university now has raised $8.9 million of its $10 million goal with the gift from Grace-Bio Labs President Charles McGrath.





. . .
Subscriber content preview

DETROIT (AP)  An expert who two years ago warned about dangerous lead levels in Flint, Michigan's drinking water has declared a qualified end to the crisis.

Virginia Tech researcher Marc Edwards said Friday that, after several rounds of testing, lead levels are back to normal  for a city with old lead pipes. He recommends the continued use of filters and warns of a crisis of confidence among residents who blame government for the water problems.





. . .
Moriguchi family's ID high-rise will be designed by Shigeru Ban



Journal staff reporter By BRIAN MILLER Journal staff reporter

Image by PortLiving [enlarge] Tomio Moriguchi met Shigeru Ban through his work in Vancouver, B.C., on Terrace House, which is billed as the worlds tallest hybrid timber structure. It is shown here next to architect Arthur Ericksons 10-story Evergreen Building.





The Moriguchi family, which owns Uwajimaya, is working with the Japanese architect Shigeru Ban to design a major mixed-use project on a parking lot at 500 S. Jackson St.

The complex will have apartments and possibly a hotel, as well as retail and commercial space, but details about the number of units and the height aren't specified.

Kirkland-based Freiheit & Ho is listed as the local architect, with Shigeru Ban Architects as the design architect. The firm is based in Tokyo and has offices in New York and Paris. In 2014, Ban won the Pritzker Architecture Prize for his work.

The developer is PortLiving of Vancouver, B.C.

The 27,000-square-foot site is on the northeast corner of Jackson and Fifth Avenue South. New zoning for the International District permits residential structures there up to 270 feet. The site is in the International Special Review District, and the project would have to be approved by the ISRD board in addition to the city's design review.

I purchased the site with my family, says Tomio Moriguchi, the family patriarch who stepped down earlier this year as Uwajimaya chairman. He handed the reins to daughter Denise, who became CEO.

The new project will be a family venture, with no connection to Uwajimaya.

The family's Fujimatsu LLC acquired the parking lot from the company in 2004 for $3.1 million. Uwajimaya had owned it since 1995.

Fujimatsu Moriguchi, Tomio's father, founded the family business in 1928. Tomio was CEO from 1964 to 2007, and chairman of the board after that.

Design hasn't yet begun, says Moriguchi. Hopefully, we'll send out a press release soon. We're working on maximizing the zoning allowance. The majority of the project will be housing.

Moriguchi says he'd like a hotel to occupy about 35 percent of the space, but that's complicating things. It requires more equity. It's not gonna be easy sailing. That part of the city could use a quality hotel.

Moriguchi notes the site's proximity to transit and the sports stadiums. Hotel guests could wheel their luggage from the light rail station right across Jackson.

Underground parking is planned, likely accessed from the alley to the east. The property is also bounded by South Main Street.

Moriguchi

Moriguchi says that about 15 percent of the space would be retail-commercial.

There will always be some opposition to any kind of development, he says, but we can't live in a cave. We've been doing some outreach and had some favorable comments. I know it'll have some pushback.

Having Ban on the team will be a huge selling point, though Moriguchi admits, Average people don't know his name.

Moriguchi met Ban because he is designing Terrace House in Vancouver, B.C. The 19-story, 20-unit condominium is billed as the world's tallest hybrid timber structure. It's about to begin construction, and is Ban's first project on the West Coast. PortLiving is the developer.

PortLiving founder Macario Tobi Reyes made the introduction.

Ban has said Terrace House, which will also use concrete and glass, will be a companion piece to its next-door neighbor: architect Arthur Erickson's Evergreen Building. The terraced, 10-story office tower is in Vancouver's Coal Harbour neighborhood.

Moriguchi says his partner Reyes has mostly done condos, but I told him, No, I don't want condos.' He intends to keep the asset in the family.

Shigeru Ban is great, says Moriguchi. I've met him a couple of times. He's very pleasant. Mr. Ban has been interested in Seattle. I guess he has been wanting to do something in Seattle and the Northwest for a while.

Ban visited Seattle in 2001 to give a lecture, and Moriguchi says he is supposed to be here in November.

Ban has designed high-profile international projects like the Aspen Art Museum, Centre Pompidou-Metz and La Seine Musicale, but he also is known for creating disaster-relief structures out of cardboard tubes and recycled paper. One acclaimed example is a temporary cathedral built in Christchurch, New Zealand, following the 2011 earthquake.

Ban trained as an architect in California and New York, and is known for his sparse, elegant brand of sustainable modernism.

In 2007, The New York Times' Michael Kimmelman wrote that Ban is an old-school Modernist with a poet's touch and an engineer's inventiveness.

The team may have preliminary renderings to show in November. Right now, says Moriguchi, Because the zoning is relatively new, they've been spending a lot of time interpreting the code.

The city's Mandatory Housing Affordability Act will also affect the building specifications and height, but to what extent, We haven't determined yet. It might be in the 240-foot range, the 230-foot range. We might not want to max it out.

At the street level will be storefronts facing Jackson.

Ban knows some very high-level retailers in Japan, says Moriguchi, who plans to meet with some of them about leasing in the unnamed project. We're going to Japan next week.

The tenant entrance might be on the uphill side of the property, on Main.

Moriguchi sees local demand continuing for both hotel rooms and high-quality apartments.

Last year, Uwajimaya opened The Publix, a renovation and addition project that created 125 units and retail space at 504 Fifth Ave. S., opposite Union Station. We were pleasantly surprised [by how quickly it leased]. There seems to be a demand for larger units.

Also last year, a Moriguchi LLC sold a parking lot at 450 S. Main St., where the 18-story, 202-unit Koda condominiums are now being planned. Several other residential projects are underway in the ID, chiefly owing to the upzone. Excluding Yesler Terrace, about 1,389 units are being planned in the area, according to the website Seattle in Progress.

Moriguchi says he expects his project will take about five years to complete. It's very exciting... I just hope I'm breathing then.





Brian Miller can be reached by email at brian.miller@djc.com or by phone at (206) 219-6517.




Subscriber content preview

KENT  A small business park at 1531 Central Ave S. in Kent has sold for $5.5 million, according to King County records. The seller was Totem Business Park LLC, which has owned the property for decades.

The buyer was Totem Business Center LLC, which is associated with Vornbrock & Sons Construction of West Seattle.





. . .
The first installment of money raised for the Irish Red Cross to assist the relief effort following the devastating floods in north Donegal in August was handed over to the charity group on Wednesday.



A cheque for 35,000, which was the majority of the proceeds of a charity concert held in Lettterkennys Aura Centre recently, which saw stars such as Daniel ODonnell and Nathan Carter perform, was handed over to the Chairman of the Irish Red Cross, Pat Carey at a function Bank of Ireland, Letterkenny.

The event was set up by Deirdre Grant and a committee of volunteers over the course of six days.

Mrs Grant said some reported the event as thesix day miracle and added that there was still more money to be collected from their fundraising efforts and this will be passed on in due course.

Speaking at the function she said it was a real team effort to host the concert but it was the goodwill of so many people that made it happen,

She said the event was wonderful and madness but was a great success.

It is just amazing what you can do when you get a group of people to do something for the right reason, from the right place in their hearts and I think that is what we all did. It was a group of people. It was all volunteers. It was the people who came on the day and bought tickets. It was the like of McElhinneys, John Foy and others who donated prizes for the raffle and the artist who performed. From the beginning it really took off when Daniel ODonnells manager called me and said Daniel would like to be a part of it, she explained.

She said the first installment was for 35,000 and there was more to come in from other collections and events being hosted around the country and further afield and this would be handed over later.

Pat Carey told those present that it was a great response from the people of Donegal and that the money raised would make a hell of a difference to the relief effort.

Daniel ODonnell also joined the event via Skype and said he was delighted the event was so successful.

The star-studded bill at the Aura Leisure Centre included Daniel ODonnell, Big Tom, Nathan Carter, Dominic and Barry Kirwan and Johnny Brady, among others.

The fundraising target for the event was 20,000 but the generosity of many saw that target exceeded.

Mrs Grant said there were even collections taking place in London to support those affected by the flooding.

The Donegal Association Dublin recently hosted a fundraising table quiz and social night in D2 on Harcourt Street for Inishowen Flood Relief. The event raised over 7,000.

Finin Mac a Bhaird was MC for the evening and spoke of how the Donegal Association were glad to be able to help and host an event for the victims of the recent floods in Donegal saying how this event brought the association back to its grassroots as it was originally founded as a result of a tragedy  The Aranmore Disaster in 1935

Donegal Person of the Year Stephen McCahill travelled from Ardara to be there on the night and spoke about the association and the importance of their work in Dublin.

Following on from the floods local farmers have called on the IFA to fight for as much financial aid as possible following the flooding which damaged land, crops, and roads, mostly in the Inishowen peninsula.

Special meeting

A special IFA meeting on Tuesday to deal with the flooding issue heard that the aid on offer - a package of 15,000 - would be inadequate for many farmers and some farmers would need substantial sums to deal with damage caused to their land by the flooding of August 22nd. Concern has also been raised by the IFA that damage to crops and uncut fodder and silage may not be covered.
Bam Bam, the bighorn sheep whose penchant for butting cars made him an international star, died of natural causes at Sybille Canyon near Wheatland on Thursday. He was believed to be 12.
A tender has gone out for 15m of improvements for a stretch of road between Donegal town and Killybegs.

Improvement works on the N56 at Mountcharles from Turris Hill to Drumbeigh are out for tender and tenders are to be returned by the end of October.

Donegal TD and Leas Cheann Comhairle Pat the Cope has Gallagher has welcomed the confirmation from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). The proposed works will involve the design and construction of approximately 2.75km of new national secondary road to type 1 single carriageway. The scheme commences at the tie-in with the Mountcharles Bypass and continues to Drumbeigh .

Deputy Gallagher was advised by TII that, it is intended a contractor for the new road project will be appointed shortly after the October deadline and that road construction commence immediately after.

The project will significantly improve the level of service for road users and enhance the accessibility of South West Donegal including the port of Killybegs and Gaeltacht areas, Deputy Gallagher said.

He said the N56 Mountcharles to Drumbeigh is an essential project for improving access to south-west Donegal and the port of Killybegs, but more improvement works need to be done to the N56 right throughout Donegal.
The programme to resettle refugees from the Syrian war in Donegal has been suspended following the flooding in Inishowen leading to a call for the refugees to be resettled in other parts of the county.

Twelve families were due to be resettled this month in Buncrana and Carndonagh, two towns badly hit by the flooding of August 22nd.

The families were initially to come to Donegal in May but the programme was put back to September.

Donegal County Council confirmed following a query from the Donegal Peoples Press that the programme has been suspended but it said it hopes it will recommence as soon as possible.

In a statement the council said: Following on from the recent flooding in Inishowen, Donegal County Council is continuing to work with the Irish Refugee Protection Programme to ensure that disruption to the refugee resettlement project is temporary.

 It is hoped that the resettlement programme will be back on track as soon as resources allow.

Up to 30 families are expected to be coming to Donegal in two phases, the first of which were to come to Inishowen.

Cllr Jack Murray said while there is a moral obligation to resettle refugees, the floods had created a serious housing shortage in Inishowen which means the option of resettling the refugees in other parts of the county should be considered.

Moral obligation

The council and Irish society have a moral obligation to house people in desperate need and who are fleeing a war zone and a hellish situation, the Sinn Fein councillor said.

Given our recent past and given the level of help that other European countries have given refugees, we need to step up to the mark.

While Inishowen was intended to house the first refugees, it is obvious that the floods have created a serious housing shortage in Inishowen where we still have a number of families living in hotels due to a lack of accommodation, therefore, I feel that while we should house these families, it makes more sense to look at other municipal districts that are not experiencing a crisis in housing like we are.

This is not about shirking our humanitarian responsibility, it is just dealing with the reality of the situation where there has been a natural disaster that has seriously reduced the level of housing available.

A total of 760 refugees arrived in Ireland last year under the governments humanitarian programme for people fleeing conflict in Syria and other war-torn countries in the Middle East and north Africa.

The Irish government has committed to admitting 4,000 people over three years.
A new peanut buying station will provide Geneva County farmers with another option for selling their peanuts.

The Farmers First Peanut Company, LLC officially opened Friday. The $2 million facility, located at 4055 Enterprise Highway, was built by a group of Geneva County farmers who wanted a locally controlled peanut buying station. The new station will sell peanuts to Birdsong Peanuts, a Georgia firm.

Debbie Faine, company spokesperson, said local farmers wanted more options for selling their peanuts and came together to achieve that goal. Faine said the station is the first new peanut buying station built in Geneva County in many years.

Competition is good and it keeps us all on a level playing field, Jason Vinson, a farmer and member of the companys board, said.

The station is already seeing business. Henry Martin, one of Geneva Countys longest-working farmers, dropped off the first load of peanuts at the new station recently.

Weve all sold to big companies before and were still selling to them, Vinson said. This just gives us a locally owned option and is a big asset to the community.

Vinson said the new facility can process about 20,000 tons of peanuts at a time and includes the latest graders, samplers and cleaners.

Peanuts are big business in Geneva County. According to a 2010 report by the Alabama Cooperative Extension, Geneva County ranked third in the state in peanut production. After poultry and eggs, peanuts were the countys No. 2 agricultural commodity.

Farming is important to Geneva County  of the countys 368,819 acres, about 220,492 are devoted to farming.
Media center

The media library provides access to images, as well as TV footage files and video clips, infographics and documents related to Deutsche Post DHL Group and its corporate divisions.
If there's one thing that we can agree with Secretary of State Corey Stapleton about, it's that his office should be investigating fraud.

We don't just mean that if there is evidence of fraud that his office should be leading the charge against it; Stapleton should be held responsible for perpetuating a political hoax at the expense of undermining Montana's electoral process.

Some things that should be beyond partisan gamesmanship. Confidence in Montana's election process should be one of those sacred, off-limits topics which should be agenda-free.

Blaming Montana media

Stapleton has instead used his position as Montana's chief elections officer to undermine Montana's confidence in voting and then, when his own unsubstantiated views are debunked, he can do nothing more than blame the media for his own political shenanigans and petty games.

Let's explain: Stapleton, following a popular conservative ploy nationwide, jumped on the "voter fraud" bandwagon. In testimony to an interim legislative committee he called into question why there were no cases of voter fraud in Montana, and then said that more than 300 ballots cast during the state's Special Election for Congress were illegal.

When a reporter followed up on that number with Stapleton, he pegged the number of illegal (his word, not ours) ballots at 360, and also raised the question of whether they were counted.

And so that the reporting, done by the Associated Press, Lee Montana Newspapers and The Billings Gazette, remained part of the unchallenged record since the meeting on July 20.

On Thursday, nearly two months later, Stapleton was asked to appear again before the State Administration and Veterans Affairs Interim Committee to clarify and update those shocking numbers.

Skipping SAVA meeting

Instead of appearing in person, Stapleton decided to send his chief of staff. He didn't have the courage or conviction of his apparently strongly held beliefs to explain to the committee that those numbers (as many as 360) were wildly misleading. We feel sorry for Stapleton's chief of staff, who had to read a letter riddled with grammatical errors. He blamed the entire issue on the media and misreporting. He even went so far as to say that he had reached out to editors to correct the stories after they appeared. His chief of staff named The Billings Gazette specifically as one of the media organizations he reached out to.

Yet the editors at The Gazette have no record of being contacted. Furthermore, neither The Gazette nor the Associated Press ever printed a correction on the stories.

When Stapleton visited The Gazette editorial board on Aug. 18, almost a month after the stories appeared, he complained of inaccuracies in the stories, but failed to give one concrete example, saying that it wasn't his job to correct a reporter's story. When asked why he wouldn't want citizens to have the correct information if there was indeed errors, he again asserted that his job isn't to talk to reporters.

Throughout reporting on Stapleton and the issue of voter fraud in Montana, reporters with this organization and other media have called him for comment and explanation. We've done that because it's not only sound journalistic practice, but also because Stapleton, in his elected position, should be the authority on the subject. Sadly, Stapleton has a long track record of not returning phone calls, and then complaining loudly when he doesn't like something in the press. In fact, in an August editorial that was critical of how he was using the "voter fraud" issue for political points, The Gazette reached out for comment and clarification before drafting an editorial. Those calls, which we made sure were received because we talked to an assistant to assure that he got the message, went unanswered.

In short, we have continuously given Stapleton the opportunity to comment, clarify and correct. He simply refuses.

That leads us to believe Stapleton has used this issue of voter fraud to undermine confidence to score political points. When he was unable to justify his numbers or rhetoric, he blames an easy scapegoat, the media, which plays well to the same group that also yearns to believe in voter fraud.

No fraud in Missoula

We'd point out the three cases that his chief of staff cited as fraud at Thursdays committee meeting have not been substantiated. In fact, Committee Chairwoman Sen. Sue Malek reported that investigation of the alleged fraud case in Missoula yielded no evidence of crime, according to the Missoula County attorney. Fraud requires proving the intent to deceive. Ballots werent counted because they were turned in late, had no signatures or signatures that didn't match the voters signature on file at the county elections office. Maybe evidence of sloppiness, but certainly not fraud.

Stapleton by his actions has undermined the system he was elected to protect. He seems proud to disseminate misinformation and then refuses to correct it. Finally, he makes accusations against the media that are unsubstantiated.

There is fraud, Mr. Stapleton, and it's been perpetuated by you on the citizens of Montana when you've given them a reason not to trust the results of a free and open election. This is nothing more than a farce, designed to incense lawmakers who will then take steps to make voting unnecessarily difficult which would have the effect of disenfranchising entire blocs of voters.
Louth IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chairperson, Riona Meehan is calling on all farmers to join the push for pension equality for women.

She said that since changes to the yearly average contribution categories introduced in 2012, the pension gap between women and men has widened.

'It is completely unacceptable that women are being discriminated against for taking time out from paid work to care for children and family members, particularly when in some instances they were forced to give up work under the marriage bar', said Riona Meehan.

IFA is calling on the Government to address past injustices for women at or near pension age by:

Introducing a total contribution system for the purposes of calculating the level of contributory pension; and,

Ensuring that the pension system recognises the important role women have played and continue to play in providing unpaid care.

'It is very saddening to meet women farmers who have worked all their life on the farm, caring for their children and older relatives and who are now facing their old age in poverty because the State still fails to recognise their work as unpaid carers', Riona Meehan said.

She said the IFA has been lobbying in recent years for changes in the pension system to remove discrimination against women farmers, and is delighted to lend our support to the campaign by the National Womens Council of Ireland (NWCI) for Pension Equality for Women.

Riona Meehan asked all farmers to support the campaign and to contact their local public representatives to make them more aware of womens pension issues.

The NWCI has produced a new publication outlining the issues in relation to womens pensions and offering advice on discussing these with public representatives.

'To honour its commitments in the recently published National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020, the Government must as a matter of urgency assess how our pension policy impacts on women', Riona Meehan said.

Orla OConnor, Director of the National Womens Council of Ireland (NWCI) said,

'Budget 2018 is a crucial opportunity to addresses the indirect discrimination against women in the pension system, as well as ensuring pension policy in Ireland is based on the modern lives of women and men.

'A longstanding issue for women accessing pensions is that the Homemakers Scheme only applies retrospectively to 1994, leaving many women who were forced out of work by the marriage bar with insufficient and unfair pension entitlements.

'It is critical that the Government immediately backdate the Homemakers Scheme to 1973 and, as promised seven years ago, replace the Homemakers' Disregard with credits.'
Communities across County Louth are on high this week with the announcement that three towns in the county have been shortlisted for Bank of Ireland Enterprising Town awards.

Carlingford, Ardee and Drogheda will each be visited by adjudicators from the competition this week for assessment.

The judges are looking to see how the community works together to support enterprise and job creation.

'It's wonderful to see three of our towns shortlisted for these awards', said Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council Cllr. Colm Markey.

He continues, 'We know that the county has so much to offer. Superb access to national and international markets, a highly talented workforce and a can-do attitude to Enterprise and we're looking forward to showing this off this week.'

'The judges will visit Carlingford on Thursday morning, Ardee on Thursday afternoon and finish their visit to Louth in Drogheda on Friday morning.

'In each of their visits they'll be taking a walking tour of the town so were encouraging local people to watch out for the adjudicators and give them a big smile', concluded Louths Head of Enterprise Thomas McEvoy.

The competition, now in its second year, seeks to highlight the role that local people can play in driving enterprise and job creation in their own community.

Last years winner was Boyle, Co. Roscommon when they achieved the title and a prize fund of 23,000 for local enterprise projects.
Coca-Cola today revealed the non-profit organisation from Louth included in a shortlist of 20 in this years Coca-Cola Thank You Fund, which aims to empower and support young people across the island of Ireland.

The groups were selected for their ideas to bridge the divide between education and the workplace, foster diversity and inclusion in communities, and empower young people to become the leaders of the future. The selected groups will now continue in the process to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges for a share of the 100,000 Fund.



The Coca-Cola Thank You Fund is delivered in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and Youth Action Northern Ireland. Shortlisted from over 200 entries, the shortlisted youth organisation, Stephenstown Pond from Louth, is in the running to receive a grant of 30,000, 10,000 or 5,000 following their presentation to the panel of judges. Winners will be announced at Zeminar, Irelands largest Youth Conference, in the RDS on Thursday 12th October 2017.



In understanding the need for funding to support youth development across the island of Ireland, Coca-Cola commissioned research to establish the ambitions and concerns of parents of young people. The research found that 82% of parents feel it is important for their child to continue education into third level, and this gains further significance with 67% of parents concerned for their childs future employment prospects. While the number one aspiration of parents (35%) is for their child to create a life they enjoy, 63% have worries and concerns over their children being led astray by peer groups. Top issues on the minds of parents included concerns around drugs (21%), followed by general societal challenges such as unemployment and high costs of living (15%).



The research also revealed that if their children wanted to emigrate, nearly half of parents (48%) would understand but rather their child stayed in Ireland. 45% said they would be excited for their child to explore life in another country.



Through the Thank You Fund, Coca-Cola is seeking to fund youth focused projects that will provide youths across Ireland and Northern Ireland with opportunities to engage in their community and participate in programmes and activities that will in the long term equip them with the skills and experiences they need to be successful and involved in todays society.
Financial Services Minister Kelly ODwyer has pushed through reforms to overhaul the governance of Australias $2.3 trillion superannuation system, sparking anger from Industry Super Australia.

The new legislation was introduced on Thursday in a bid to deliver a strong and modern superannuation system that is solely focused on delivering outcomes for all Australians who rely on these funds to secure their retirement, with a strong prudential regulator, said Ms ODwyer in a statement released on Thursday.

Despite Ms ODwyers announcement that the package will ensure the highest standards of transparency and accountability across all APRA regulated superannuation funds, Industry Super Australia has accused the government of caving into pressure from banks to dismantle the not for profit superannuation sector.

Chief executive David Whitely said: Industry Super Australia is concerned that this move gives the banks a leave pass on some new transparency and disclosure requirements.

The government has still not advanced any evidence that their proposals will improve returns for members.

The evidence is clear: for the ten years to 30 June 2017, SuperRatings monthly data shows, on average, industry super funds have outperformed bank-owned super funds by more than 2 per cent a year*.

Key Points:

According to a statement released by Ms ODywer, the package will:

Ensure superannuation funds are more transparent and accountable through new reporting of expenses such as annual member meetings

Strengthen APRAs powers to regulate funds

Give workers the right to choose their own super fund

Improve governance of super funds by implementing a consistent minimum standard for one-third independent directors

Ensure all workers receive their full superannuation entitlements by closing a legal loophole that some employers are using to short-change workers of their super

Strengthen all default MySuper products offered across the industry.

A spokesman for Ms ODwyer said: These are long overdue reforms, appropriate to a modern compulsory superannuation system thats 25 years old, and they apply across all funds; corporate, retail, industry and public sector funds.

Superannuation belongs to members and no one else, she said.

*ISA analysis of SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey, SR50  balanced option medians, June 2017
It didn't take long for the celebrating to die down as voters, providers, patients and whole communities discovered that things were not as they seemed. The anti-marijuana group SafeMontana has a much different agenda: Raise $500,000 for an Educational and Political Media Campaign to Stop Legalization of Marijuana in Montana. SafeMontana Phase I is well funded to pass legislation. In Phase II, we need your help to fund a $500,000 education campaign. SafeMontana wants to make Montana the first state in the union to pull federally illegal drugs (marijuana) out and then off to SafeUnitedStates in 2018 and 2020 to pull it out of the other 23 states it is in. Well, there you have it, the SafeMontana Steve Zabawa long-term agenda!

The real truth is that Montana is financially broke and we are in serious trouble as a state facing a future of uncertainty. We could change all that with the legalization of cannabis/hemp while maintaining our ethical moral compassion and standards. It doesnt matter whether it's legalization or our medical cannabis program. We should all be educated with research, truth, and facts that will benefit all of our citizens of the Great State of Montana.

I started Cannabis/Hemp Education and Therapeutic Communication because I wanted to provide education to its potential application and use while creating community solutions designed for health professionals, cannabis/hemp providers/staff, medical cannabis patients, law enforcement, professionals, agriculture, and the citizens/local government of our communities.

Everywhere that you have educational information SafeMontana, Steve Zabawa, and SafeMontana board members, I will be there challenging your material with educational material of my own. I can no longer just sit on the sidelines while I watch you and your organization destroy families with your propaganda, misinformation and twisted truths.

Its my opinion that Steve Zabawas information is driven by the greed of the pharmaceutical/political side of marijuana.

Kimberly A. Whitaker

Missoula
Justin Walsh and Garrett Moon couldnt find a job they wanted in Bismarck, so they created their own.

The two are founders of one of North Dakotas fastest-growing technology startups, CoSchedule, and are finding success as their company makes its move to the next level.

CoSchedule is a marketing calendar application that helps companies better plan and implement their marketing campaigns. And lately, the product has been catching the business worlds eye  mentions in Inc. and Forbes magazines, placing in the top five at Tech.Co Startup of the Year competition and 22 on the list of top 1,000 SaaS (Software as a Service) companies, as well as appearances at INBOUND marketing and sales professionals conference in Boston and Content Marketing World Conference in Cleveland.

To keep up with these increases in demand, the company went from 27 employees on Jan. 1 to 63 now in Bismarck and Fargo  an expansion partially powered by $2.2 million in investment financing earlier this year, including $600,000 from the North Dakota Development Fund and $400,000 from the Bank of North Dakotas New Venture Capital Program.

We really saw it coming last year, Moon said.

As the tool has gotten better, it has started to appeal to a larger set of customers, including some bigger firms with greater, more complex needs, such as more advanced workflows that auto notify other departments to start the next step when one department completes a task or sending items for legal and compliance checks.

GAP, Uber and Ebay are just a few of CoSchedules more than 8,000 customers in more than 100 countries.

CoSchedule eliminates the need for email threads and copy and pasting into multiple marketing platforms, according to Moon. It also saves time by developing templates for companies to use to develop their social marketing messages. And because it is a calendar that allows pre-scheduling, it makes companies marketing more consistent, leading to better engagement and interest from customers.

CoSchedule offers a one-size-fits-all tool. When a customer requests a new feature that could be beneficial to other customers, the company rolls it out for all to use, something customers can expect to see a lot of over the next six to eight months as the company makes changes.

Some of our biggest things are ahead of us, Walsh said, of the companys increased investment in its product.

And CoSchedule has doubled its number of engineers to make it happen, as well as increasing its sales staff and adding an administrative team.

CoSchedule still considers itself an early stage company, but as it begins to grow beyond a startup, its founders are aiming to maintain some of the startup culture that has served them well, including their mission of failing fast.

As a startup, there is limited time and money, so they encourage employees to take risks but to take them quickly and learn early whether or not the ideas are going to work, according to Walsh.

If you find something that works, its a big win for everybody, Walsh said.

CoSchedule has managed to find the talent it needs in North Dakota, mostly by allowing the teams, with employees becoming more specialized, to be involved in the community and network with other professionals who may have that startup, entrepreneurial mentality.

Theyre coming to us, Walsh said of new hires.

"As dynamic as they are, CoSchedule adds a different feel to the business community because there is really nobody else like them, said Brian Ritter, president of the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association. Certainly any time you have a company, like CoSchedule, in technology it adds even more diversity to the economy. Im encouraged to see them start here and grow here.
Dickinson National Honor Society students are raising money to help their so-called "sister city" in Dickinson, Texas, a community that was inundated with floodwaters just weeks ago that destroyed and damaged homes, businesses and at least one school there.

This past week, North Dakota's Dickinson High School students filed into their dry classrooms, while students at Texas' Dickinson High School spent their time cleaning up their community that was rocked by Hurricane Harvey on Aug. 25.

After a two-week delay in school, Dickinson Independent School District in Texas resumed classes on Sept. 11.

Some of the district's 11,000 students returned to school after losing everything. Of the district's 1,600 employees, 400 employees' homes were damaged by flooding, according to Tammy Dowdy, DISD director of communications.

After seeing the devastation in the Dickinson, Texas, community, Jim Fahy, a social studies teacher and adviser for DHS Honor Society, thought there must be a way they could help.

"When Dickinson, Texas, came on the news, Im seeing how hard they got hit  theyre right next to the (Gulf of Mexico)," said Fahy, who then enlisted the help of his Honor Society students.

Honor Society committee chairs and seniors Alexus Meduna, Amy Wegner and Cora Knipp said they brainstormed ideas and decided to make T-shirts and collect money in jars. On Sept. 7-8 and Sept. 11, the students put out the jars at the high school and throughout the city, including grocery stores and gas stations. They collected about $3,500.

Meduna designed a T-shirt that displays the two states overlapping and has both Dickinson cities marked. Across the shirt it reads, "Support our sister city." They're selling the $15 shirts, which can be purchased at logomagicinc.com/dickinsonsistercity, until Sept. 21.

"It's a really good way of giving back, and that's really what our organization is all about," Fahy said.

Fahy reached out to Texas' Dickinson High School National Honor Society adviser, Kathleen Baldwin-Bruysschaard, to let them know of the plan to help.

I was absolutely so touched," Baldwin-Bruysschaard said.

Baldwin-Bruysschaard said there was four feet of water in her home. Her family lost three cars and had to canoe and kayak to escape the flooding in their neighborhood. She was weeding through her family's belongings to find what was salvageable when she got an email from Fahy.

Ive got dirty gloves on my hands, Im hot  and I get this email, and I stop to read it, and it just, the light just came out. It just made such a difference," she said.

Baldwin-Bruysschaard, who is also chair of the high school's science department, said her Honor Society students started a staple program two years ago that helps seniors who have overcome hardships during their high school career. This year, she wasn't sure she and her Honor Society students could do any fundraising for the program, because the community was hit hard by Harvey. They usually raise about $1,300 to help 10 students.

I just felt, personally, that this would be really difficult, she said. The whole community is trying to get material items for people to get back on their feet. We have kids coming to school who lost everything and are still living in shelters. So, how am I going to ask my kids to raise money for something that we dont have to have?"

So, when an Honor Society adviser from Dickinson emailed her and said his students wanted to help, Baldwin-Bruysschaard was elated.

Theyve saved us," she said, adding that this week she told some of her Honor Society students who didn't believe it until they saw the email themselves. They may even be able to help more students in the program this year.

Local Dickinson Public Schools officials said they're proud that their Honor Society students stepped up to help another school during its time of need.

"Its an awesome thing that our kids our doing," said Dickinson High School principal Ron Dockter. "They have a lot of compassion and empathy for, as they call it, their sister city."
New show apartment opening at Summerhill Park, Liverpool

Buyers looking for apartment living outside the city centre  yet within reach of everything Liverpool offers - will be able to view Redrows latest designs at Summerhill Park later this month.

The award winning homebuilder is set to unveil a chic new show apartment at Kings Court on Saturday, September 23, so its definitely a date to put in the diary.

The Kings Court apartments are the newest phase of Summerhill Park, a development of two, three and four-bedroom homes, which boasts something for everyone and enjoys a great location within walking distance of Broadgreen station and close to the end of the M62.

Kings Court comprises two three-storey apartment buildings, each containing 15 two-bedroom apartments and offering a choice of three different layouts.

Summerhill Park is proving to be a very popular development and one we are really proud of, says Claire Jarvis, sales director for Redrow Homes (Lancashire).

A double award winner - it was highly commended in the UK Property Awards, which held it up as a prime residential development, and has previously been given the title of Housing Development of the Year by Knowsley Business and Regeneration Awards - it has clearly been given the seal of approval by buyers too, with sales soaring.

And we are delighted to mark the start of this new phase with the show apartment opening, which gives people a chance to see inside one of the latest properties, which are ideal for first time buyers, downsizers and buy-to-let investors.

And Claire added: These light and airy, modern apartments make the most of every bit of space, offering contemporary open-plan living at its very best.

The new show apartment is a C-type, which offers a spacious kitchen, lounge and dining area (209 x 112), two double bedrooms and a bathroom with a separate bath and shower cubicle. All the rooms are accessed from a central hallway and theres a handy storage cupboard and laundry area.

Whichever apartment style home owners choose, all boast fully-fitted kitchens with integrated appliances including a ceramic hob, single oven and microwave, as well as a fridge and freezer, with prices expected to start in the region of 125,000.

Each apartment has a dedicated parking space, with further visitor places provided, and theres a bike store to encourage greener travel.

Already competitively priced, the apartments will also be available with the government-backed Help to Buy equity loan, which can reduce the initial outlay by up to 20% and means purchasers may only need a 5% deposit.

While situated in a quiet neighbourhood within the borough of Knowsley, Summerhill Park, off Thomas Lane, is close enough to Liverpool city centre so residents can take advantage of all that it has to offer. Broadgreen train station is a short walk away  with a footpath leading to the station from Kings Court  and offers frequent journeys to Liverpool Lime Street in less than 15 minutes.

The end of the M62 is also within easy reach, linking to the heart of Manchester in around 40 minutes and the M6 in under half an hour.

For more information about the Kings Court apartment, as well as three and four-bedroom family homes from Redrows hugely popular Heritage Collection at Summerhill Park, go along to the show apartment opening on Saturday, September 23 between 10am and 5.30pm, visit redrow.co.uk/summerhill.
College funds worth tens of thousands now essential for children from middle-income families

Aspirant parents who want their children to go to university may need to start building a college fund now or their child may not be able to afford a university education, according to NFU Mutual.

Means testing of the Student Maintenance Loan, introduced last September for students in England, means that children from all but the lowest income households wont be able to borrow all they need to get by. This years shortfall alone will top 5,500 for some students.

Unprepared parents could be forced to consider unsecured loans to make up the shortfall themselves to allow their kids the chance to fulfil their potential.

Sean McCann, chartered financial planner at NFU Mutual, commented: If mum and dad expect their kids to borrow to fund the full cost of their university course, theyll be in for a shock.

Many parents have come to terms with the fact that if their children attend university, they are likely to graduate with an enormous debt. However, some wont yet realise the size of the financial burden they will have to take on to meet their childs living costs.

The US concept of the college fund must now be an essential part of family finances in the UK if university is a realistic ambition. Even now, two parents on average salaries could need to fork out more than ten thousand pounds between them to top up the maintenance loan over a standard three-year undergraduate course.

Were in a situation where middle-income parents with young children will have to start planning in earnest. Those with several bright kids are likely to have an even greater financial burden.

This September some students will be able to borrow 5,500 per year more than others to pay for living costs. Students coming from households with an income of more than 25,000 wont be able to borrow the full amount, potentially pricing them out of a university education.

Sean continued: The maintenance loan is there to help pay for the basics such as student accomodation and food. The means test prevents most students from borrowing the full amount. And, while the guidelines arent explicit, basing the test on household income means that the bank of mum and dad will have to make up the shortfall.

Most people will look to an ISA to build up a nest egg and some might want to consider investing in stocks and shares if they have five or more years to invest. However, Junior ISAs are not necessarily the answer as the child will have full access on their 18th birthday and that could become an unavoidable distraction ahead of A-levels.

As some people have children later than others, there will be a number of parents who may be able to access their pension pot by the time their child starts further education. At the moment, pensions are one of the most tax efficient way to invest money  particularly for higher earners.
Investment climate and anti-corruption efforts discussed at high-level meetings

EBRD President Sir Suma Chakrabarti concluded a visit to Ukraine on Friday afternoon after meetings with the countrys President Petro Poroshenko, Prime Minister Volodymyr Groyssman and a speech at the annual meeting of the YES international conference.

The EBRD President praised progress in the reform process in recent years, specifically mentioning the banking and power and energy sectors. These steps had turned many doubters into believers that the country has the political will and resources to make changes happen, he said. However, he also urged the country to continue on this path.

President Chakrabarti said: Ukraine just does not have the luxury of further delaying the reforms required to complete the foundations and build the structure of its economy. Ukraine needs to do much more to consolidate the rule of law and respect for property rights. Widespread corruption is the single largest obstacle to the return of investment, which will drive future growth.

He stressed the ongoing commitment of the EBRD, the countrys largest investor, to increase its activities in Ukraine. At the same time, he reiterated that in order to enjoy sustainable growth, the country needs to remove the remaining barriers to foreign or domestic investment.The EBRD is disappointed with the lack of progress in the privatisation and reform of state-owned enterprises. The highly anticipated land reform could unlock significant funding for Ukraines agribusiness, which has the potential to become a European global player.

The EBRD is the largest international financial investor in Ukraine. To date, the Bank has made a cumulative commitment of almost 11.6 billion through 383 projects since the start of its operations in the country in 1993.
Consumer credit reporting agency Equifax on Thursday said it suffered a major criminal data breach that exposed personal information of as many as 143 million consumers in the U.S. between mid-May and July of this year.

The attack exposed a range of sensitive personal data, including names, addresses, Social Security Numbers, dates of birth, and in some cases drivers license numbers, Equifax said. The attackers also accessed credit card data for about 209,000 consumers and credit dispute information for about 182,000 consumers.

Further, the intruders obtained a limited amount of personal information for certain people in the UK and Canada, but Equifax did not specify how many were affected.

Picking Up the Pieces

Equifax discovered the attack on July 29 and immediately began to take action. The company contacted law enforcement agencies and hired a top independent cybersecurity firm, which has been conducting a thorough cybersecurity review in order to understand the scope of the attack and what specific information was involved.

This is clearly a disappointing event for our company and one that strikes at the heart of who we are and what we do, said CEO Richard Smith, who apologized to consumers and business customers. We pride ourselves on being a leader in managing and protecting data, and we are conducting a thorough review of all of our security operations.

The company has developed a comprehensive portfolio of services to support U.S. consumers whether or not they were impacted directly by the incident, he added.

Equifax has established a dedicated website, www.equifaxsecurity2017.com, to help consumers determine whether they were impacted by the incident, and also to sign up for complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection.

The package includes something called TrustedID Premier, which includes three-bureau credit monitoring of Equifax, TransUnion and Experian credit reports, copies of Equifax credit reports, the ability to lock and unlock Equifax reports, identity theft insurance and the ability to scan for compromised Social Security Numbers to see if they are on the Internet.

Further, Equifax said it will contact consumers directly by mail if their credit cards or dispute documents were compromised. The company is in the process of contacting federal and state regulators, as well as the attorneys general of all U.S. states and territories about the incident.

One of them  New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman  on Friday issued a consumer alert.

The Equifax breach has potentially exposed sensitive personal information of nearly everyone with a credit report, and my office intends to get to the bottom of how and why this massive hack occurred, Schneiderman said.

I encourage all New Yorkers to immediately call Equifax to see if their data was compromised and to consider additional measures to protect themselves, he added.

Consumers can contact a dedicated call center at 866-447-7559 to determine if they have been affected by the breach. The call center is open every day (including weekends) from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Eastern time.

Equifaxs goal cannot be to fix the problem and move on, CEO Smith told the firms employees.

Although Equifax has made significant investments in cybersecurity, company officials recognize that they must do more, Smith said, and he promised that they will.

Ahead of the Game

The company has responded well to the attack, said Mark Nunnikhoven, vice president of cloud research at Trend Micro, noting that its CEO has issued a written and video statement accepting responsibility, it has called in outside technical expertise, and it is providing assistance for consumers.

Equifaxs response in this situation is a great example of how to respond if a cybercriminal does manage to breach your defenses, Nunnikhoven told TechNewsWorld.

Still, the attack appears to have exposed a vulnerability at Equifax that could challenge it from both a security and branding perspective and potentially expose it to legal jeopardy.

Equifax needs to raise their cybersecurity score, said Chris Morales, head of security analytics at Vectra.

Enterprises need to realize they cannot address cybersecurity by simply spending money on intrusion prevention solutions, he told TechNewsWorld, and need to shift investments to detection and response solutions to thwart todays advanced attackers.

Several law firms  Levi & Korsinsky, Khang & Khang, Holzer & Holzer and others  already have launched investigations into potential securities law violations by Equifax. The firms stock plunged more than 13 percent on Friday on the news.

Consumer Safety

Consumers should check the Equifax site to find out if their data was exposed, making sure to use a secure computer with an encrypted network connection, advised Seena Gressin, attorney with the Federal Trade Commissions Consumer and Business Education division.

They also should check all three major credit reports, using the annualcreditreport.com site and check for accounts they dont recognize.

Consumers should consider placing a credit freeze on their files to make it harder for someone to open up an account in their name, or if they decide not to place the credit freeze, placing a fraud alert on their files, Gressin said. Consumers also should file their taxes early to avoid tax identity theft.
Blog Archive June 2021 (1) May 2021 (77) April 2021 (77) March 2021 (82) February 2021 (68) January 2021 (64) December 2020 (67) November 2020 (66) October 2020 (66) September 2020 (67) August 2020 (74) July 2020 (83) June 2020 (92) May 2020 (86) April 2020 (104) March 2020 (105) February 2020 (74) January 2020 (75) December 2019 (75) November 2019 (70) October 2019 (89) September 2019 (69) August 2019 (81) July 2019 (77) June 2019 (73) May 2019 (110) April 2019 (110) March 2019 (102) February 2019 (85) January 2019 (123) December 2018 (116) November 2018 (112) October 2018 (121) September 2018 (107) August 2018 (150) July 2018 (163) June 2018 (190) May 2018 (145) April 2018 (112) March 2018 (124) February 2018 (113) January 2018 (164) December 2017 (150) November 2017 (144) October 2017 (169) September 2017 (171) August 2017 (135) July 2017 (131) June 2017 (147) May 2017 (160) April 2017 (138) March 2017 (156) February 2017 (143) January 2017 (203) December 2016 (208) November 2016 (185) October 2016 (173) September 2016 (194) August 2016 (232) July 2016 (225) June 2016 (238) May 2016 (231) April 2016 (215) March 2016 (246) February 2016 (226) January 2016 (252) December 2015 (230) November 2015 (250) October 2015 (234) September 2015 (222) August 2015 (253) July 2015 (275) June 2015 (279) May 2015 (223) April 2015 (226) March 2015 (243) February 2015 (258) January 2015 (281) December 2014 (292) November 2014 (296) October 2014 (413) September 2014 (472) August 2014 (506) July 2014 (483) June 2014 (488) May 2014 (512) April 2014 (497) March 2014 (531) February 2014 (482) January 2014 (535) December 2013 (482) November 2013 (441) October 2013 (416) September 2013 (491) August 2013 (521) July 2013 (491) June 2013 (470) May 2013 (457) April 2013 (426) March 2013 (420) February 2013 (414) January 2013 (489) December 2012 (433) November 2012 (504) October 2012 (469) September 2012 (430) August 2012 (427) July 2012 (360) June 2012 (336) May 2012 (362) April 2012 (322) March 2012 (263) February 2012 (224) January 2012 (291) December 2011 (295) November 2011 (325) October 2011 (330) September 2011 (319) August 2011 (333) July 2011 (318) June 2011 (387) May 2011 (373) April 2011 (389) March 2011 (375) February 2011 (335) January 2011 (400) December 2010 (445) November 2010 (395) October 2010 (312) September 2010 (262) August 2010 (277) July 2010 (323) June 2010 (386) May 2010 (360) April 2010 (333) March 2010 (351) February 2010 (336) January 2010 (384) December 2009 (353) November 2009 (300) October 2009 (308) September 2009 (350) August 2009 (298) July 2009 (255) June 2009 (203) May 2009 (193) April 2009 (186) March 2009 (197) February 2009 (173) January 2009 (148) December 2008 (181) November 2008 (197) October 2008 (236) September 2008 (304) August 2008 (314) July 2008 (273) June 2008 (27) May 2008 (1) April 2008 (6) October 2007 (1) May 2007 (1) April 2007 (6) March 2007 (2) February 2007 (1) October 2006 (1) September 2006 (1) August 2006 (4) July 2006 (4) June 2006 (1) July 2005 (1) May 2005 (2) March 2005 (1) June 2004 (2) May 2004 (1) April 2004 (4) March 2004 (2) February 2004 (2) July 2003 (2) June 2003 (5)
FARGO -- North Dakota State University students woke up Sunday to a sobering sight  a red Cass County coroners van parked on the sidewalk in front of Sevrinson Hall on the university campus.

A 17-year-old male, believed to be a high school student from a Minneapolis suburb, died on Sunday, at Sevrinson.

NDSU police received a call shortly after noon on Sunday that there was an unresponsive male at the residence hall. Paramedics responded and tried to revive the teenager but were unsuccessful.

Mike Borr, director of the University Police and Safety Office, said the deceased was not an NDSU student. Borr did not release the victims name or cause of death.

It is unknown whether alcohol or drugs were involved. There were no apparent signs of foul play, Borr said.

An investigation into the cause of the death was still ongoing. The lead agency in the investigation was the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. NDSU police, Fargo police and the Cass County coroner were also participating. Attempts to reach a spokesperson for the BCI on Sunday were unsuccessful.

Residents who knew the deceased said he was a high school senior from Burnsville, Minn., and had been staying with a friend on the seventh floor of Sevrinson Hall for the weekend.

Nick Harrom and Brandon Wright, both 18 of Bemidji, Minn., who live on the sixth floor of Sevrinson, said they are friends with a suite-mate of the student the deceased was visiting. They said they hung out with the deceased on Friday night and saw him at 12:30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

They said many students had been drinking but that the deceased seemed fine at the time.

He didnt seem unusual, Harrom said. He was still sitting up, still talking, still functional. There was nothing out of the ordinary.

Both said they saw the deceased and his friend at the JCI Musical Festival, featuring T-Pain, on Saturday night at Newman Outdoor Field at NDSU. They stopped briefly at the friends room early Sunday morning before going back to their room.

Wright said that when the deceaseds friend woke up on Sunday morning, the victims lips were purple and he couldnt wake him, so he immediately called for an ambulance.

Many students walking in and out of Sevrinson Hall on Sunday seemed shaken by what had happened, and the presence of a coroners van in front of their dorm.

Although there was no official word that alcohol was involved, Harrom said, It makes you take a step back. Everybody says dont drink. But nobody knows what to do once you start drinking.
Anxiety has become the most significant obstacle to learning among my adolescent students. In a teaching career spanning more than 30 years, I have watched as it has usurped attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which itself displaced dyslexia, as the diagnosis I encounter most often among struggling students. In contrast to dyslexia or ADHD, for which I have developed effective teaching strategies, anxiety in students leaves me feeling powerless. As a new school year kicks off, I am left wondering how anxiety has become so prevalent so quickly. What can I do about it? Might my teaching actually contribute to it?

Until recently, I felt confident I could engage, challenge, and succeed with a wide range of learners, both at the high school and college levels. My history classes are interactive, fast-paced, and student-directed. Discussions, projects, art, trips, speakers, and the occasional rap throw-down make up my method. My students and I read and make sense of the most challenging authors togetherNietzsche, Foucault, Dostoyevsky. I work closely with learning-support teachers to assist students needing help. Students signaled that they liked my approach: voting for me to receive awards, giving positive evaluations, writing end-of-year thank-you cards.

Things have changed. School refusal has surfaced. Last year, half the high school seniors in my global-studies seminar missed a month of class time; 20 percent were out for more than two months, risking loss of credit.

Absenteeism also proved concerning in the two college classes I taught; a few students stopped coming altogether and failed. I had only limited success staunching the exodus of undergraduates by implementing a policy linking unexcused absences to grade reductions. It pained me to do so, but my department chair said almost the entire faculty had done likewise.

Explanations for absenteeism varied. There were the usual suspects: illness, death in the family, sports. But other themes emerged: I just couldnt face school today. I had two projects and felt overwhelmed. I couldnt get out of bed, or I had a counseling appointment and was in crisis. The best student in my college class offered this surprise: Ive never taken an evening class before, and I forgot we were meeting. These comments suggest overscheduling, emotional distress, distraction.

It was a rare day when every student turned in work on timethat happened just twice during the spring trimester. My policy is to work with students who may occasionally be too busy to meet a deadline; I ask for 24-hour notice, an email requesting an extension, and a description of extenuating circumstances. Even so, I often found myself tracking down students who failed to turn in their assignments.

I seek new ways to discuss anxiety with students and parents. I don't want to make things worse, but my gut tells me that sidelining anxious students in the classroom is counterproductive."

When students were called to account, two types of responses stood out: I couldnt start; my mind went blank, and expressions of apprehension from my 12th graders about college readiness. I interpreted the first as a kind of paralysis. The second is a new phenomenon among the students I teach and suggests powerful ambivalence for life postgraduation.

Other signs emerged. I observed students traveling abroad suffering panic attacks, separation anxiety, insomnia, nervous stomachs, phobias, and similar symptoms. Over the last few years, some students could not complete trips to distant parts of the world and came home early. Overnight retreats or a trip to New York City were problematic; so were theatrical performances involving violence or sex.

Of course, travel and art should push peoples comfort zones. Yet, I was struck by both the frequency of symptoms and that this debilitating anxiety was cropping up in seemingly solid kids. Enhanced vetting to assess potential overseas travelers emotional health still proved inadequate. Many of my high school students were just a year away from college. I wondered how they would cope.

It is more difficult to employ my go-to toolsquestioning and listeningto engage anxious students. Administrators instructed me not to discuss attendance or missed work with some (or their parents) because they feared raising familial stress. My interactions with families were therefore often mediated, with administrators and counselors serving as go-betweens. I understood the rationale, but things did not necessarily improve. Students failed. Grades declined generally.

Research confirms a rising trend. National Institute of Mental Health data show that 38 percent of 13- through 17-year-old girls and 26 percent of boys the same age have an anxiety disorder , according to a New York Times report. Those statistics contrast with studies from just a decade ago, when an estimated 3 percent to 5 percent of teenagers manifested anxiety disorders.

Positively, the authors of Primer on Anxiety Disorders, a 2015 book that compiles writings from leading researchers in the field of anxiety disorders, suggests that Big Science and Big Data are having revolutionary effects in addressing this national crisis. Advances in brain science and decoding the human genome make it easier to diagnose and treat anxiety. Better detection signals progress and is a precursor to relief.

However, other scholars point out that illness always derives from historical and societal factors. Histories of anxiety describe its uptick as the Cold War fueled fears of nuclear annihilation and pharmaceutical companies invented and marketed tranquilizers.

Anxiety diagnoses are thus symptomatic of a cultural matrix that is a hothouse for producing more anxiety.

Psychologist Stephen Hinshaw has described anxiety in teenage girls as stemming from an existential crisis: a reaction to a culture that makes impossible demands and offers little meaning beyond achievement. Hinshaw suggests beating teenage anxiety necessitates a sweeping reordering of families, schools, and the cultural packaging of adolescence.

My students words and behavior support this view. Thus, I intend to do more to show them how developing their intellectual lives can bring existential meaning. I am also rethinking how I challenge my students. Maybe my classroom, with its variety and speed, should feel slower. Our culture prioritizes rigor, but what if the cost is paralysis, massive attrition, ormy worst fearviolence or suicide? Such outcomes are unacceptable.

I seek new ways to discuss anxiety with students and parents. I dont want to make things worse, but my gut tells me that sidelining anxious students in the classroom is counterproductive.

Im also coming to terms with my limits. Socioeconomics, genetics, ethnicity, personality, gender, social media, and family may each play more important roles than school in determining adolescent anxiety, studies show. Teachers cannot shoulder all the burden, or blame, for anxious students. This epidemic demands societal responses.
Exorbitant water use by New Zealand dairy farms, says pro-water tax expert

Around 2,000 dairy farms in New Zealand, which are mostly not irrigated, use a very hefty amount of water equaling to the combined populations of London, New York, Tokyo, Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro, according to a Stuff report.

These farms are mainly based in dry areas of the country like Canterbury and Otago. Agricultural economist Peter Fraser describes a "huge gold rush" to turn such regions to "hugely water-intensive uses."

"There's an issue here with how we've gone and used our land," Fraser commented. "Why have we gone and put these incredibly water hungry uses such as dairy farming in such water scarce areas?" He claimed that "free" water escalates the heavy dependency on water.

An average of around 80 cubic metres of water is used by each person, based on figures from Wellington - although water use varies nationwide. This calculates to about 58.2 million people, the figure equivalent to the amount of water dairy farms use. In addition, there were 12,000 dairy herds in New Zealand consuming 4.8 billion cubic metres of water, said Fraser and farm consultant Dr. Alison Dewes, who estimated the amount based on Dairy NZ figures.

New Zealand's Labour Party recently proposed a water tax which sparked protests by farmers thinking that the move is aimed unfairly at rural communities. However, claims that they would be overwhelmed by the significant cost of a water tax are exaggerated, Fraser and Dr. Dewes remarked.

Cost estimates of paying the tax range from $50,000 to $100,000. For an irrigated dairy farm, the average cost would be between $10,000 and $15,000, Fraser and Dr. Dewes' analysis found. Some mega farms, which were each using water equivalent to 31,000 people, would pay up to $50,000.

On the other hand, data by Irrigation NZ showed the average cost for an irrigated farm in Canterbury to be bigger - at between $24,000 and $29,000.

'When this additional cost is put in context of the profit generated by a family farming business, it will create a significant impact, particularly for sheep and beef, arable and vegetable farmers who have reasonably tight operating margins," said the organisation's chief executive, Andrew Curtis.

Fraser, who believes the water tax should be paid by everyone, said the tax "would be $1.60 per person a year."

Dr. Dewes also called upon the country's National party to focus on "developing sound policies that help farmers transition to high-value, resource-efficient land uses with lower water, nitrogen and carbon footprints."

- Stuff
FARGO  What exactly happened to Savanna Marie LaFontaine-Greywind? When will we know? Will we ever know?

Her story has riveted Fargo-Moorhead and the region, and has drawn the attention of people across the country and around the world, so much so that shes become known simply as Savanna. Yet, we still know remarkably little about what happened.

When did she die? How and where was she killed? When was her baby born? How did it come into the world? Was it born naturally, induced early, or taken from her violently?

Police and prosecutors presumably know more than we do, but theyre not talking.

A beautiful young woman, eight months pregnant, with a promising career, about to start a new family with her longtime boyfriend and expected baby daughter, disappeared. Five days later, her newborn baby was found alive and healthy, but without her. Three days after that, the womans body was discovered in the Red River, wrapped in plastic and bound by duct tape.

The basic facts of the story read like a Hollywood murder mystery, but its more frightening than any movie because its real.

Three weeks have passed since Savannas body was found and two suspects were charged in the case, but many questions remain about the womans disappearance and killing.

Very little new information has emerged. Fargo police have not made any public announcements about the case since Aug. 29, when preliminary autopsy results became available, and even then they only provided the vaguest of details.

The Forum recently sent Fargo Police Chief David Todd and Cass County States Attorney Birch Burdick a list of questions about the case, but both refused to answer any of them.

Police have said they cannot release further information because it would jeopardize their investigation and the states attorneys ability to prosecute the case. Burdick said prosecutors are prohibited from making extrajudicial comments by professional rules of conduct.

Therefore, much of what we dont know may not emerge until the case is resolved at trial or otherwise. Some details may never be known. Heres what we know so far:

*****

Savanna, 22, was home on a Saturday afternoon, Aug. 19, with her family in the basement apartment they shared in a three-story apartment building at 2825 9th St. N. in Fargo, a short walk from McKinley Elementary School. She lived there with her mother, father, a brother and a sister.

A woman living in a third-floor unit, Apartment 5, asked Savanna if she would model a dress she was sewing so that she could pin it. The woman was Brooke Lynne Crews, who lived there with her boyfriend, William Henry Hoehn. Crews offered Savanna $20 in return for her help. Savanna agreed.

Crews and Hoehn have been charged with conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. They are each being held on $2 million bail at the Cass County Jail.

Savanna went upstairs about 1:30 p.m. Before going upstairs, she ordered a pizza, so she must have thought she wouldnt be gone long. But she never ate that pizza.

Just before going upstairs, she texted her mother, telling her what she was doing. At 1:24 p.m., she texted her boyfriend, Ashton Matheny, who was housesitting for his mother in Grand Forks. It was the last time he would hear from his girlfriend.

Savanna was supposed to give her 16-year-old brother a ride to work just before 3 p.m. About 2:30 p.m., Savannas mother, Norberta LaFontaine-Greywind, sent him upstairs to get her, but nobody answered at Apartment 5 when he knocked. A few minutes later, Savannas father, Joe Greywind, went upstairs and knocked on the door. Crews answered, but she told him they werent finished working on the dress.

Since Savanna was unavailable, her mother took her son to work. Once the mother returned home, she went about her business, doing laundry, assuming her daughter was in her room. Eventually, she discovered Savanna wasnt there. She panicked, ran upstairs, knocked on the door of Apartment 5, but Crews told her Savanna had left soon after her father had come to the door.

Savannas mother immediately knew something was wrong. Savannas car was still in the apartment parking lot. Shed left behind her wallet. It was out of character for her to leave home without telling anyone. She was unlikely to go anywhere on foot because she was very pregnant, uncomfortable most of the time as a result, and naturally cautious.

Norberta called Savanna on her cellphone, but she didnt answer, though the phone was on and rang. She texted her. Savanna didnt respond. She then called Savannas boyfriend, Ashton, but he hadnt communicated with her since that text at 1:24 p.m.

Savannas mother later said she didnt trust Crews even before her daughters disappearance. Two weeks before, Crews had knocked on the familys door and asked Savanna to come upstairs to smoke pot with her, despite the fact Savanna was 7 months pregnant. She had no such antipathy toward Hoehn.

About 4 p.m. on Saturday, the Greywind family contacted Fargo police to report that Savanna was missing. About 4:27 p.m., three police officers arrived at the apartment. They met with the family, and then went upstairs to question Crews and Hoehn.

*****

According to Lt. Jason Nelson, Fargos chief detective on the case, both Crews and Hoehn were home at the time. Crews invited the officers into Apartment 5. She acknowledged that Savanna had been in the apartment earlier, but had left, and Crews said she hadnt seen her since. The officers asked if they could look around the apartment and were granted permission. They found nothing suspicious.

Police saw evidence of the sewing project that was Savannas reason for going upstairs. Still, it remains puzzling why Crews, who isnt visibly overweight, would ask a woman who was eight months pregnant to model a dress for her.

The couple who lived immediately below Crews and Hoehn said later that they heard loud noises coming from the bathroom of the suspects apartment on Saturday afternoon about the time Savanna went upstairs  banging in the bathtub. The noises lasted for about 20 minutes, then the shower was turned on.

They were so accustomed to Crews and Hoehn fighting that they didnt think anything more of it at the time.

Later that night, the Greywind family again called police to report that Savanna had not returned home. Though that call is not listed in the dispatch log, Nelson said that officers responded and met with the family. They cautioned them that there was a limit to what police could do at that point because Savanna was an adult who could have left of her own volition and there was no evidence of criminal activity.

Police again went upstairs to the apartment of Crews and Hoehn. Both were home. They again granted the officers the right to search the apartment. The officers found nothing suspect.

Norberta Greywind later said Fargo police did not take Savannas disappearance seriously at first. She said she called them repeatedly but that they were very rude and had no sympathy whatsoever. She said she screamed at them. I felt like they just had no care. They told me they did their job.

For reasons that are unknown, Fargo police returned to the suspects apartment for a third time that weekend about 6:30 p.m. Sunday. This time a detective accompanied a uniformed officer. According to Nelson, only Crews was home at the time. She invited the officers into the apartment. She allowed them to search the apartment. They found nothing. They also searched public areas of the apartment building.

All three initial searches were what police call consent searches, meaning that the residents authorized police to search. But consent searches, by their nature, are less rigorous than searches conducted with search warrants, which often include forensic investigations.

The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead provided little news on Savannas disappearance initially. The first story appeared online Aug. 20 and in the newspaper Aug. 21. It was a short story, 12 sentences in length, on page 3 of Section C. It included a photo of Savanna, a photo that would be featured again and again, in media around the world, in coming weeks. A second update story appeared on page 2 of the A Section the following day, but it was even shorter.

Savannas disappearance didnt become front-page news until Aug. 23, four days after she had gone missing.

*****

A member of the Spirit Lake Tribe, Savanna was born in Belcourt, moved to Fargo when she was young, and then to the Spirit Lake reservation at age 9. She lived on the reservation until moving to Fargo last year. Her father is a Spirit Lake Indian. Her mother is a member of the Turtle Mountain band of Chippewa Indians.

Relatively little is known about what Fargo police did to try to find Savanna between Aug. 19 and Thursday, Aug. 24, when they raided the suspects apartment and found Savannas baby. As late as Aug. 22, Deputy Police Chief Joe Anderson said there is nothing to suggest criminal activity.

Police reported on Aug. 22 that they had interviewed Savannas family, friends, employer and neighbors. They had conducted two K-9 searches. U.S. Customs and Border Protection did an aerial search. The Fargo Fire Department searched the river. Police had tried unsuccessfully to ping her cellphone to determine its location. They had contacted hospitals throughout the region, to no avail.

Responding on Aug. 23 to concerns about whether police were doing enough to find Savanna, Fargo Police Chief David Todd, who was on vacation at the time, said, This is our No. 1 priority. All of our resources have been focused on this since the beginning.

Deputy Chief Anderson said the same day, We are treating it as a criminal investigation and have since Sunday, which seemed to contradict what he said the day before. He insisted there was no contradiction.

The police response, however, has inspired many questions from Savannas family and friends, from the public and the media.

Police later said that they lacked a criminal nexus required to obtain a search warrant until Wednesday, Aug. 23, though they have never defined what that means or what information they lacked.

To obtain a search warrant, police must demonstrate to a judge probable cause that something they are seeking in an investigation will be found at the location they wish to search  that it is more likely than not to be found, according to Cass County District Court Judge Steven Marquart. Theres not a high burden of proof, he said. Its the least onerous standard of proof in the legal system.

*****

The apparent breakthrough in the case came Wednesday morning, when Fargo police interviewed people who worked with William Hoehn at Assured Quality Roofing in Fargo. Lt. Nelson told Chris Berg, host of the Point of View program on KVLY-TV, that Hoehns coworkers said he had talked about having a baby at home.

That information, Nelson said, was what police needed to justify obtaining a search warrant for the apartment of Crews and Hoehn. Police obtained the search warrant on Wednesday morning, but still they didnt act.

Nelson said that police didnt execute the search warrant right away because they didnt know whether Savanna or her baby were in the suspects apartment, and they didnt want to do anything to jeopardize their safety. Instead, they placed the apartment building and the two suspects under surveillance.

About this time, a rumor circulated online that the woman who lived in Apartment 5 was named Dawn Kirby, a registered sex offender, though the rumor proved to be false. On Wednesday night, I went to Apartment 5 at the instruction of my editor to interview whoever was there.

As I walked up the stairs in the apartment building and approached Apartment 5, I heard a loud machine noise coming from the apartment. It sounded like construction noise, possibly an industrial vacuum, noise you might hear if an apartment was being rehabbed. It was too loud to be a normal home vacuum cleaner or any other common domestic machinery.

I knocked on the door. The machine was turned off. A woman behind the door asked who was there. I identified myself, but she couldnt hear me sufficiently so she opened the door, just wide enough to see me. I asked if William Hoehn lived in the apartment. She confirmed that he did. I asked if he was home. She said he wasnt. I asked if she was Dawn Kirby. She said she was not, that she didnt know Dawn Kirby, that Dawn Kirby did not live there, and that she had never heard of Dawn Kirby. I asked her name, but she wouldnt tell me.

Later, after Crews and Hoehn were arrested, I realized that Crews was the woman with whom I had spoken.

Knowing that, my visit inspired questions. What was Crews doing in the apartment when I knocked? What sort of machine was she using? If the apartment and suspects were under constant surveillance, as police later said, why didnt police follow me and question me about what I was doing there?

At 1:41 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 24, police executed a search warrant on Apartment 5. They found Crews at home and, much to their surprise, found a healthy newborn baby, which the suspects told them belonged to Savanna.

How is it possible the baby was born four weeks early in such challenging circumstances, was healthy when found, and has experienced no significant health problems?

Crews was arrested. Hoehn was arrested soon after at his job. The baby was taken to Sanford Childrens Hospital and placed under protective custody of Cass County Social Services until DNA could determine whether Savanna and her boyfriend, Ashton, were the parents. DNA tests have since proven that they are the parents, and Ashton has obtained legal custody of his daughter, Haisley Jo.

Fargo police and investigators from the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation spent the rest of the day searching the apartment building and Apartment 5, and conducting detailed forensic examinations. They have not revealed anything about what they found there.

*****

Savanna, however, remained missing. Police seemed to have no clues about where she might be. When asked at a news conference the day after the raid whether searches had uncovered any information about her whereabouts, Chief Todd said, Not that Im aware of.

Police asked for the publics help in finding Savanna. They called on people to search their properties, buildings, garages and outbuildings. They asked landlords to check vacant properties. They encouraged the public to look through dumpsters for suspicious materials. They asked anyone who had seen a brown 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee owned by the suspects to contact police.

But when asked if there was a geographic focus to police searches, Todd said, We do not have a specific direction to point people in right now.

Family and friends of Savanna grew impatient with police and the lack of progress on the search, so on Friday, Aug. 25, they organized their own search and encouraged the public to help. Over the next three days, hundreds of people fanned out across Fargo looking for clues. They looked in parks and wooded areas. They looked along the river. They looked in residential neighborhoods.

Police were not involved in the public searches when they started. On the first day, a single police officer stood away from a pavilion where organizers had set up in Trollwood Park, merely observing. But by the end of the weekend, a more collaborative relationship between police and searchers developed. Searchers were instructed about what to do if they found anything suspicious, and all information was turned over to police.

Savannas body was found on Sunday night, Aug. 27, wrapped in plastic and lodged against a tree in the Red River north of Fargo-Moorhead. Eight days of intensive searching by law enforcement and the public had failed to produce results. Rather, the discovery was made by accident by kayakers paddling the river for some weekend fun. They saw a body-sized object in the river and contacted police.

Law enforcement agencies also searched a nearby abandoned farmhouse next to the river in rural Clay County, Minn. Volunteer searchers found suspicious items there and alerted police. Authorities eventually determined that the farmhouse was not a crime scene and had no connection to the case. To date, no other location has been identified as a possible crime scene, except Apartment 5.

*****

Presumably because Savannas body was found on the Minnesota side of the Red River (police wont say exactly where it was found), it was sent to the Ramsey County Medical Examiners Office in St. Paul for an autopsy. Police received preliminary results of the autopsy two days later, but said only that the cause of death was homicidal violence. No information was provided about the time of death, specific cause, condition of the body, or whether examinations had determined the method by which the baby was born.

The two suspects, Crews and Hoehn, were formally charged on Monday, Aug. 28. They were each charged with conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, and providing false information to police. The charging documents revealed some new information, but also raised new questions.

Crews and Hoehn told different stories about what happened. Crews said she instructed Savanna on the day she disappeared how to induce early childbirth. She said Savanna then left her apartment, returned two days later at 3:30 a.m., and gave Crews a newborn baby. Crews told police that she had taken advantage of Savanna in order to obtain her child.

Hoehn, in contrast, said he came home from work about 2:30 p.m. on the day Savanna disappeared and discovered Crews cleaning up blood in the apartment bathroom. He said Crews presented him with a newborn baby and told him, This is our baby, this is our family. Hoehn told police he removed garbage bags containing bloody towels and shoes, and disposed of them in an apartment dumpster in an unknown location in West Fargo.

Charging the two suspects with conspiracy to commit murder, rather than murder, suggests that police and prosecutors may not know who actually killed Savanna. The charges allege that Crews and Hoehn conspired to murder Savanna so that they could obtain her child and so that the child could be raised as (their) biological child.

Reporters inquiries made after Crews and Hoehn were arrested revealed that Crews had at least seven children of her own by at least five men, but had limited contact with all of them. She had been sued for child support by two of the men. Hoehn had two children, one of whom he physically abused as a baby, fracturing its skull.

*****

Fargo police say they are still investigating the crimes. Prosecutors, meanwhile, are formulating their cases against the suspects. A preliminary hearing for Crews is scheduled for Sept. 28 and for Hoehn on Oct. 4.

Fargo police executed two more search warrants at the apartment building  on Monday, Aug. 28, and Tuesday, Aug. 29. They havent said why. All three search warrants have since been returned to the court. When a search warrant is returned, the paperwork contains an inventory of what was found. But all three search warrants have been sealed so their contents cannot be examined.

What happened in Apartment 5 on Saturday, Aug. 19? How long was Savanna alive after she went upstairs? When was her baby born and how?

This article asks more than it answers. Savannas tragic story has shaken many of us. It has made us feel a little less secure and a little less trusting. It has challenged the belief of many in the exceptionalism of this place. Those of us who experienced it, even from a distance, will never be quite the same.
Finally, some commonsense western fire policies By Paul Driessen

President Trump promised to bring fresh ideas and policies to Washington. Now Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue are doing exactly that in a critically important area: forest management and conflagration prevention. Their actions are informed, courageous and long overdue. Westerners are delighted, and Ive advocated such reforms since my days on Capitol Hill in the 1980s. As of September 12, amid this typically long, hot, dry summer out West, 62 major forest fires are burning in nine states, the National Interagency Fire Center reports. The Interior Department and Ag Departments Forest Service have already spent over $2 billion fighting them. Thats about what they spent in all of 2015, previously the most costly wildfire season ever, and this season has another month or more to go. The states themselves have spent hundreds of millions more battling these conflagrations. Millions of acres of forest have disappeared in smoke and flames  1.1 million in Montana alone. All told, acreage larger than New Jersey has burned already. However, even this hides the real tragedies. The infernos exterminate wildlife habitats, roast eagle and spotted owl fledglings alive in their nests, immolate wildlife that cant run fast enough, leave surviving animals to starve for lack of food, and incinerate organic matter and nearly every living creature in the thin soils. They turn trout streams into fish boils, minus the veggies and seasonings. Future downpours and rapid snowmelts bring widespread soil erosion into streambeds. Many areas will not grow trees or recover their biodiversity for decades. Most horrifically, the conflagrations threaten homes and entire communities. They kill fire fighters and families that cannot get away quickly enough, or get trapped by sudden walls of flames. In 2012, two huge fires near Fort Collins and Colorado Springs, Colorado burned 610 homes, leaving little more than ashes, chimneys and memories. Tens of thousands of people had to be evacuated through smoke and ash that turned daytime into choking night skies. Four people died. A 1994 fire near Glenwood Springs, CO burned 14 young firefighters to death. These are not natural fires of environmentalist lore, or ordinary fires like those that occur in state and privately owned and managed forests. Endless layers of laws, regulations, judicial decrees and guidelines for Interior and Forest Service lands have meant that most western forests have been managed like our 109 million acres of designated wilderness: they are hardly managed at all. Environmentalists abhor timber cutting on federal lands, especially if trees might feed profit-making sawmills. They would rather see trees burn, than let someone cut them. They constantly file lawsuits to block any cutting, and too many judges are all too happy to support their radical ideas and policies. Thus, even selective cutting to thin dense stands of timber, or remove trees killed by beetles or fires, is rarely permitted. Even fire fighting and suppression are often allowed only if a fire was clearly caused by arson, careless campers or other human action  but not if lightning ignited it. Then its allowed to burn, until a raging inferno is roaring over a ridge toward a rural or suburban community. The result is easy to predict. Thousands of thin trees grow on acreage that should support just a few hundred full-sized mature trees. Tens of billions of these scrawny trees mix with 6.3 billion dead trees that the Forest Service says still stand in eleven western states. Vast forests are little more than big trees amid closely bunched matchsticks and underbrush, drying out in hot, dry western summers and droughts  waiting for lightning bolts, sparks, untended campfires or arsonists to start super-heated conflagrations. Flames in average fires along managed forest floors might reach several feet in height and temperatures of 1,472 F (800 C), says Wildfire Today. But under extreme conditions of high winds and western tinderboxes, temperatures can exceed 2,192 F (1200 C), flame heights can reach 165 feet (50 meters) or more, and fires can generate a critter-roasting 100,000 kilowatts per meter of fire front. Wood will burst into flame at 572 F. Aluminum melts at 1,220 degrees, silver at 1,762 and gold at 1,948 F! Most of this heat goes upward, but super-high temperatures incinerate soil organisms and organic matter in thin western soils that afterward can support only stunted, spindly trees for decades. These fires also emit prodigious quantities of carbon dioxide, fine particulates and other pollutants  including mercury, which is absorbed by tree roots from rocks and soils that contain this metal, and then lofted into the sky when the trees burn. Rabid greens ignore these hard realities  and divert discussions back to their favorite ideological talking points. The problem isnt too many trees, they insist. Its global warming and climate change. Thats why western states are having droughts, long fire seasons, and high winds that send flames past fire breaks. Global warming, global cooling and climate change have been part of the Earth and human experience from time immemorial. Natural climate fluctuations brought the multi-decade Anasazi drought, the Dust Bowl and other dry spells to our western states. To suggest that this summers heat and drought are somehow due to mankinds fossil fuel use and related emissions is deliberately delusional nonsense. Neither these activists nor anyone in Al Gores climate chaos consortium can demonstrate or calibrate a human connection to droughts or fires. Rants, rhetoric and CO2-driven computer models do not suffice. And even if manmade (plant-fertilizing) carbon dioxide does play a role amid the powerful natural forces that have always controlled climate and weather, reducing US fossil fuel use would have zero effect. China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam alone are building 590 new coal-fired power plants right now, on top of the hundreds they have constructed over the past decade. Overall, more than 1,600 new coal generators are planned or under construction in 62 countries. People in developing countries are also driving far more vehicles and making great strides in improving their health and living standards. They will not stop. Western conflagrations jump fire breaks because these ferocious fires are fueled by the unprecedented increase in combustibles that radical green policies have created. These monstrous fires generate their own high winds and even mini tornados that carry burning branches high into the air, to be deposited hundreds of feet away, where they ignite new fires. It has nothing to do with climate change. Remove some of that fuel  and fires won get so big, hot, powerful and destructive. We should also do what a few environmentalist groups have called for: manage more areas around buildings and homes  clearing away brush that federal agencies and these same groups have long demanded be left in place. Finally, we should be using more of the readily available modern technologies like FireIce from GelTech Solutions. They can suppress and extinguish fires, and protect homes, much better than water alone. The last bogus eco-activist claim is that fire isnt destruction; its renewal. It creates stronger, more diverse ecosystems. That may be true in managed forests, timber stands in less tinder-dry states, and forests that have undergone repeated, non-devastating fires. For all the reason presented above, it is not true for government owned and mismanaged forests in our western states. Over 50 million acres (equal to Minnesota) are at risk of catastrophic wildfires. Right now, we are spending billions of dollars we dont have, should not have to spend fighting all these monstrous killer blazes, and should have available to improve forests and parks and fund other vital programs. These forests could and should create jobs and generate revenues in states where far too many lands, timber, oil and minerals have been placed off limits  primarily by urban politicians, judges and radical activists who seem determined to drive people off these western lands, turn them into playgrounds for the wealthy, and roll back other Americans living standards and well-being. Cleaning out dead, diseased, burned, overgrown trees would bring countless benefits. It would make our forests healthy again. Above all, the new Interior-Agriculture approach would demonstrate that Rural Lives Matter. 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 and other books on the environment. Home
Make America great again By Dr. Robert Owens

I know a very intelligent man who says, All politicians lie, the good ones do it convincingly. The Donald won his miraculous victory based on promises that built an agenda to make America great again. These promises basically said that he would address three areas, the economy, the wall, and taxes. Hows he doing so far? The S&P 500 has added more than two trillion in market value since Trump's election. This is an astounding run for a bull market. Records have been broken, and broken, and then broken again. I call this the Trump Bump. Economy growing: check. What about the wall? Homeland Security has issued a waiver to certain laws, regulations and other legal requirements to ensure the expeditious construction of barriers in the vicinity of the international border near Calexico, California. The waiver was published in the Federal Register today so construction of the border wall can begin. How can this be? I thought from hearing the media cartels storyline that this would never happen. In legislation already on the books Congress provided the Secretary of Homeland Security with a number of authorities necessary to carry out its border security mission. Current law provides that the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take such actions as may be necessary to install additional physical barriers and roads in the vicinity of the United States border to deter illegal crossings in areas of high illegal entry into the United States. In laws already in effect Congress called for the installation of additional fencing, barriers, roads, lighting, cameras, and sensors on the southwest border. In this legislation Congress granted to the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to waive all legal requirements that the Secretary, in his sole discretion, determines necessary to ensure the expeditious construction of the barriers and roads authorized. DHS is implementing President Trump's Executive Order 13767, Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements, enforcing laws already on the books laws thatve been unenforced for years and is taking steps to immediately plan, design and construct a physical wall along the southern border, using appropriate materials and technology to most effectively achieve complete operational control of the border. In other words despite the fake news the Corporations Once Known as the Mainstream Media keep spinning President Trump is moving forward with his promise to build the wall. Wall underway: Check. What about taxes? For years Ive predicted that if we would reform the bewildering tax code, personally I advocate for a flat tax of 15%, lower the corporate tax, allow the repatriation of foreign holdings, and scale back regulation our economy would take off like a rocket. The Trump administration is eliminating sixteen regulations for every new one. Throw tax reform into the mix and maybe were about to see if that prediction has been valid. Two trillion in growth may pale in comparison to what Americans can do if we remove the shackles forged by the anti-capitalist Progressives over the last twenty-nine years. If we can corral enough RINOs we can pass the presidents tax reform plan. Donald Trump promised that if we elected him together we would make America great again. Since the day of his election hes been under assault by the establishment. Its been unrelenting and according to the latest survey coverage has been 91% negative. Its become so ludicrous that if the President walked on water the headline would be, Trump cant swim! If he changed water into wine it would be, Trump encourages alcoholism! And if he raised the dead it would be, Trump attacks the funeral parlor industry! Even the politically blind can see through this haze of bias and partisanship disguised as journalism. Even those made deaf by Progressive indoctrination disguised as education can hear that the political hacks and their media megaphone are doing a hatchet job on a man who sacrificed a life as a successful entrepreneur to work a thankless job for the benefit of his country. Why? What could induce someone to leave a life of luxury surrounded by a loving family all working together to accomplish great things? Why would one of the most successful builders in American history leave his own plans in the hands of others to take on a job draining a swamp? Why give up the life of a super star idolized and lionized by millions to be caricatured and hated by those driven mad because they didnt get their way? Why? To make America great again thats why. Remember the man who said, All politicians lie, the good ones do it convincingly. My vote went to a non-politician because I hoped a businessman might tell me the truth. Lets dedicate ourselves to doing anything and everything we can to support the President in his goal. Contact your Senators. Call your Representative. Let them know that you want them to help not hinder the President. Let them know you want them to forget about getting themselves re-elected and instead work to Make America Great Again! 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
China's nuclear puppet gambit  Kim Jong-un By Mark Alexander

The growing tension between the U.S. and North Korea's brutal communist dictator Kim Jong-un is reported by the mainstream media as if it were a dangerous one-dimensional game of checkers. While it is most assuredly dangerous, it is in fact a multidimensional strategic chess match influenced most by China's trade with the U.S., and U.S. debt held by China. (Of course, that would be too complicated for the media to explain between soundbite-punctuated advertisements.) Last week, responding to the sixth nuclear detonation and latest nuclear missile tests by North Korea's 33-year-old Western-educated "Dear Leader," the UN Security Council voted unanimously to impose its most restrictive sanctions yet against NoKo. Signers of the resolution include both China and Russia, Kim's largest trade partners  which is to say, China's dictator Xi Jinping and Russia's dictator Vladimir Putin exercise a lot of control over Kim's puppet strings. Our UN ambassador, Nikki Haley, made our position clear: "Today we are saying the world will never accept a nuclear-armed North Korea. War is never something the United States wants. We don't want it now. But our country's patience is not unlimited. ... Twenty-four years of half measures and failed talks is enough. ... North Korea has not yet passed the point of no return." She deflected protests from Russia and China, which have called for the U.S. to dismantle its THAAD missile defense systems in South Korea, noting those demands are "insulting." Insulting is an understatement, given that half of South Korea's 52 million people reside in its capital city of Seoul, just 35 miles from the 150-mile-long 38th parallel DMZ border with NoKo. That is why the United States Pacific Command has almost 30,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines stationed in South Korea, as well as a strong fleet presence in the region. Of course, President Donald Trump already put NoKo on notice, saying a nuclear strike against the U.S. or any of our allies "will be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen." (Actually, the world has seen some "fire and fury" in that region.) You would be hard pressed to find a Leftmedia outlet or conservative MSM homepage that isn't promoting headlines on the NoKo nuclear threat. But what you won't see or read on those pages is the backstory  how China, and to a lesser extent Russia, are using the Kim/NoKo nuclear threat as a king pawn to protect their own trade and foreign policy interests. In other words, the Kim/NoKo threat looms only as large as China and Russia allow it. Thus far, that threat has been little more than political theatrics in the form of missile displays and rhetoric  which is not to say it couldn't potentially become a catastrophically lethal political theater. If it does, however, that will only be with the tacit approval of China and Russia. And, should China's Kim/NoKo gambit not preserve the balance of its trade interests worldwide, a very limited conventional NoKo strike against South Korea or Japan's outlining territorial islands, two of China's most significant economic competitors, is a scenario that could follow, in order to ramp up the threat and ward off any alterations of China's favorable trade interests. A conventional strike would be considered a precursor to a NoKo nuclear strike, the latter being highly unlikely as it is clear to both Kim and Xi that such a strike would lead to the obliteration of NoKo and a lot of fallout over China. The greatest nuclear threat posed by Kim is not a direct assault but the transfer of a fissile weapons to an asymmetric Middle East threat vector  Jihad terrorists acting on behalf of ISIL. Though Kim already has the ability to launch a nuclear strike against the U.S. mainland  not that any of his rudimentary missiles would penetrate U.S. strategic nuclear defenses  it is exponentially more difficult to deter an asymmetric terrorist strike. For the record, Kim is no "military genius," as portrayed by NoKo's propaganda directorate. He was arbitrarily made a "four-star general" in 2010 as the heir apparent to the line of eternal leaders, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. But this rank appointment was, and remains, an insult to NoKo's senior military leaders. However, they would not risk assassinating Kim and installing a new government for NoKo's 24 million people, because they know well Kim has the full backing of Xi's Red Chinese. China has far more at stake than Russia, and is thus, and has been since Kim was appointed supreme leader after his father's death in 2011, his primary controller. If the Chinese economy were to further contract due to U.S. trade restrictions, it would pose a significant risk to Xi and his communist regime. The Kim/NoKo threat has been an effective front thus far, protecting China from any U.S. restrictions on its considerable trade advantages and foreign policy initiatives. In effect, Kim is for China what Castro was for the USSR. Despite China's control over Kim, it obfuscates the appearance of such control by projecting tension with NoKo. Here are three examples of China/NoKo political theater that appear at face value to represent political friction between the two: While China is on board with punishing Kim for his nuclear ambitions by signing on to the UN resolution and restricting coal imports from NoKo (its largest export to its largest trade partner), this can also be interpreted as a means of ensuring Kim's orchestrated threats best serve China's trade interests with the rest of the world. Regarding China's protest about the "mysterious" February assassination of Kim Jong-un's older half-brother, Kim Jong-nam, recall that the latter was, ostensibly, under Chinese protection at the time of his murder in Malaysia. China's protests notwithstanding, this criminal act ensured that Kim Jong-un's reign would not be challenged, which is in China's best interest. While Chinese Communist Party leader Liu Yunshan has met with and maintains close ties with Kim Jong-un, Xi Jinping has yet to meet with him and that is also part of the theatrics  implying tension and distance between the two leaders, when in fact Kim is Xi's best hope of containing President Trump's threats to close ranks on trade inequality with China. It is this latter concern, the threat of economic sanctions by the Trump administration, that presents the greatest threat to China. As we noted in 2011, "U.S. negotiators are rightly concerned about bilateral trade, the valuation of U.S. and Chinese currencies and Beijing's influence in North Korea, where the Chinese plan an economic consortium, undermining U.S. efforts to isolate Pyongyang's dictator, Kim Jong Il." Of course, the Red China/NoKo consortium was openly allowed to flourish under Barack Obama's foreign policy malfeasance and appeasement. Enter candidate Trump and his clear warnings to China about the lack of trade parity. Here are a few of Trump's observations during the 2016 presidential campaign: "There are people who wish I wouldn't refer to China as our enemy. But that's exactly what they are. They have destroyed entire industries by utilizing low-wage workers, cost us tens of thousands of jobs, spied on our businesses, stolen our technology, and have manipulated and devalued their currency, which makes importing our goods more expensive  and sometimes, impossible. ... [China is] an economic enemy, because they have taken advantage of us like nobody in history. It's the greatest theft in the history of the world what they've done to the United States. They've taken our jobs. ... We can't continue to allow China to rape our country and that's what they're doing. ... They suck the blood out of us and we owe them money. ... We're like their whipping post. We are being ripped by many countries, China being the No. 1 abuser. They do it better than anybody else. ... The single biggest weapon used against us and to destroy our companies is devaluation of currencies, and the greatest ever at that is China. Very smart, they are like grand chess masters. And we are like checkers players. But bad ones. ... China is the great abuser of the United States economically and we do nothing about it, and it would be very easy to stop. ... We should use our economic power, because without us, China would be in serious trouble." In August, Trump signed an order to investigate China's theft of U.S. intellectual property, one of the first steps he has taken to retaliate against China. But why has he waited so long to do so little? The Washington Post's editorial board unwittingly answered that question, suggesting that the president is distracted by China's use of North Korea as a shield against economic sanctions: "For all his talk during the 2016 campaign about taking on China for 'stealing' American jobs, President Trump has hardly launched the trade war against Beijing that many feared. He has not slapped across-the-board tariffs on Chinese goods; he has delayed what once seemed an imminent crackdown on aluminum and steel imports; he has declined to brand Beijing a 'currency manipulator.' Rather than trade, Mr. Trump's approach to China has emphasized enlisting President Xi Jinping's help in defusing the crisis over North Korea's nuclear weapons." And that would be precisely China's strategy. Again, the Kim/NoKo nuke threat is a shrewd subterfuge. The chess match strategy is all about trade and ultimately about the self-preserving desire of China's Xi Jinping to keep his communist party in power. Kim is likewise motivated, and, in fact, he's taking measures to model his country's economy after China's successful "economic liberalization," or the oxymoronic Marxist contradiction, "free-enterprise communism." So what is Trump to do? He's now shifting gears in line with China's ruse, to influence China's control of its Kim puppet strings. The latest shot across China's bow is President Trump's threat to curtail trade with any country that does business with NoKo  knowing that 86% of Kim's exports go to China. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin asserts, "If China doesn't follow these [UN] sanctions, we will put additional sanctions on them and prevent them from accessing the U.S. and international dollar system, and that's quite meaningful. North Korea economic warfare works. ... We sent a message that anybody that wanted to trade with North Korea  we would consider them not trading with us." Indeed, China was officially put on notice when Treasury executive Marshall Billingslea told members of the Congressional Foreign Affairs Committee, "If China wishes to avoid future measures, such as those imposed on Bank of Dandong or the various companies sanctioned for illegal trade practices ... it urgently needs to take demonstrable public steps to eliminate North Korea's trade and financial access." Ed Royce, who chairs that committee, agreed: "We must target major Chinese banks doing business with North Korea, such as China Merchants Bank and even big state-owned banks like Agricultural Bank of China." Mr. Trump then sealed the strategy, warning, "Those sanctions are nothing compared to what will ultimately have to happen." Trade "fire and fury"? There are two factors that can be an asset or a liability to Trump's strategy of refocusing on the trade issues that China has diverted with its Kim/NoKo threat strategy. First, U.S. exports to China are $170 billion, while imports are $480 billion  a $310 billion trade deficit with our largest trade partner. U.S. imports represent 20% of China's export market. While a trade war over this deficit and China's corrupt trade practices would shock the U.S. economy and its consumers, the threat of a trade war would mean significant economic contraction in the Chinese economy and a serious threat to Xi Jinping's dictatorship. As China scholar Steve Tsang notes, Xi must be focused first and foremost on sustaining his communist party power. Second, according to the most recent Treasury data, China is the largest foreign holder of U.S. debt, owning more than $1.24 trillion in bills, notes and bonds, or almost 30% of the $4 trillion held by foreign countries. China owns about 10% of all publicly held U.S. debt, and the implications if China were to begin dumping debt are ominous. At the same time, however, the security of that debt is of grave concern to China. So it is, in effect, a two-edged sword. Responding to the latest efforts by the Trump administration to pivot from the Kim/NoKo threat back to trade, China's UN ambassador, Liu Jieyi, said, "China will continue to advance dialogue." Trump won't. Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. Home
As urbanization accelerates around the world, local municipalities and city planners are struggling to keep up with the pace. Sometimes and in some areas, its easier to work outside the government altogether.

Such is the case for the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Lagos Nigeria, which has slowly developed a city of sorts over the past 30 years, complete with an independent power plant and privately managed security, infrastructure, and sanitation.

In Nigeria, the line between church and city is rapidly vanishing, writes Ruth Maclean in a profile for The Guardian. The Redeemed Christian Church of Gods international headquarters in Ogun state has been transformed from a mere megachurch to an entire neighbourhood, with departments anticipating its members every practical as well as spiritual need.

Known as Redemption Camp, what began as a mere convention center now includes 5,000 private homes and a range of businesses and institutions, including daycares, schools, colleges, banks, healthcare facilities, restaurants, a supermarket, manufacturing shops, and a childrens fair, complete with carnival rides.

Leaders of the project maintain good relations with the local government, which coordinates closely with the church to ensure that various laws are enforced and certain standards are met. But government is not the driving force of development:

If you wait for the government, it wont get done, says Olubiyi. So the camp relies on the government for very little  it builds its own roads, collects its own rubbish, and organises its own sewerage systems. And being well out of Lagos, like the other megachurches camps, means that it has little to do with municipal authorities. Government officials can check that the church is complying with regulations, but they are expected to report to the camps relevant office. Sometimes, according to the head of the power plant, the government sends the technicians running its own stations to learn from them. There is a police station on site, which occasionally deals with a death or the disappearance of a child, but the camps security is mostly provided by its small army of private guards in blue uniforms. They direct traffic, deal with crowd control, and stop children who havent paid for the wristband from going into Emmanuel Park  home to the aforementioned ferris wheel.

The Redemption Camp experiment has a good deal of resemblance with other private cities that continue to emerge across the developing world, such as Gurgaon, India, a district to the southwest of Delhi that has transformed from remote village to large industrial city in a matter of decades.

Yet with its distinct integration of faith, Redemption Camp is about much more than government incompetence, growing organically and spontaneously over time the past 30 years. What began as dormitories and residences for temporary stays and occasional conferences soon evolved into a tightly knit community of faith that wanted to stay and stick together. Families like the Oliatans find themselves wanting to live full-time with people who share their values, in a place run by people they feel they can trust, writes Maclean.

Or, as Olubiyi puts it: We feel were living in Gods presence all the time.

As for the underlying theology and ecclesiology, plenty of questions remain. Yet the prioritization faith and local institutions is a welcome development in the wider pool of private-city experiments.

Given the mixed results of non-religious private cities like Gurgaon, we can see that improved laws, property rights, and incentives are important, but they are not enough. Redemption Camp offers a unique angle and input to such experiments, weaving together private initiative and enterprise with a spiritual motivation centered on community, service, and shared belief.

At what point Redemption Camp can or should or already has transition(ed) from mediating institution to governing body is an open question. Regardless, it offers as a compelling portrait of faith and work in action, unbound by scarcity or cultural constraints, and intentional and holistic in its public witness, both in word and deed.

Image: Wikimedia Commons, Kaizen Photography, CC BY-SA 4.0

Image: Wikimedia Commons, Kaizenify, Public Domain
The $10 trillion resource North Korea can't tap



By Nick Cunningham

North Korea may not have proved petroleum reserves, but it's estimated that the secluded belligerent nation sits on reserves of more than 200 mineralsincluding rare earth mineralsworth an estimated up to US$10 trillion.



Of course, there are no official reports on how much North Korea's mineral wealth really is, but according to rough estimates from earlier this decade, Pyongyang's deposits of coal, iron ore, zinc, copper, graphite, gold, silver, magnesite, molybdenite, and many others, are worth between US$6 trillion and US$10 trillion, as per South Korean projections reported by Quartz.



Before the fall of the USSR, North Korea had prioritized mineral mining and trade with fellow communist partners. But the mining industry has been in decline since the early 1990s, due to decades of neglect and lack of funds for infrastructure development to support mining activities.



Now North Korea's mining sector trade is under a full ban by the UN, as Pyongyang has stepped up both nuclear missile tests and belligerent rhetoric in recent months. The UN started banning trade in metals last year, but there have been reports that Kim Jong-Un's regime has grown increasingly inventive in circumventing sanctions.



The UN introduced last month a full ban on coal, iron, and iron ore, after having banned trade in copper, nickel, silver, and zinc in November last year. China also implemented the coal import ban, cutting off an important economic lifeline of the regime. Coal trade has generated over US$1 billion in revenue per year for North Korea, the U.S. Department of Treasury said at the end of August, when it slapped sanctions on Russian and Chinese entities for supporting the regime.



Last Monday, following North Korea's latest nuclear test on September 2, the UN Security Council banned the supply, sale, or transfer of all condensates and natural gas liquids, and banned Pyongyang's exports of textiles such as fabrics and apparel products. The latest sanctions, however, are not imposing a full oil embargo as the U.S. called for in recent weeks. The sanctions instead are capping refined petroleum products and crude oil supply, after the U.S. dropped its demand for full oil ban, to avoid China vetoing the UN resolution.



All the sanctions leading to last weeks strongest prohibitions so far have been designed to stifle North Korea's trade in minerals and cut off money for the regime.



North Korea has staked mostly on coal mining, the cheapest and easiest to mine, compared to precious metals or rare earth metals mining, for which Pyongyang has neither the funds nor the infrastructure or know-how to develop.



North Korea has sizeable deposits of some minerals. Its magnesite reserves are the second largest in the world behind China, and its tungsten deposits are likely the sixth-largest in the world, Lloyd R. Vasey, founder and senior adviser for policy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), wrote in April this year. North Korea sits on sizeable deposits of more than 200 different minerals, and "all have the potential for the development of large-scale mines", Vasey said.



North Korea doesn't have either the funds or the infrastructure to develop those resources. It's also officially banned to export them.



Yet, "The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is flouting sanctions through trade in prohibited goods, with evasion techniques that are increasing in scale, scope and sophistication," a UN report of a panel of experts from February this year concluded.



"Diplomats, missions and trade representatives of the Democratic Peoples' Republic of Korea systematically play key roles in prohibited sales, procurement, finance and logistics. In particular, designated entities are trading in banned minerals, showing the interconnection between trade of different types of prohibited materials," the panel's report reads.



According to UN expertsas of February this yearNorth Korea had adapted to the stricter sanctions "through various tactics, including identity fraud."



"Their ability to conceal financial activity by using foreign nationals and entities allows them to continue to transact through top global financial centres," according to the report.



According to a more recent investigation by ABC Four Corners, North Korea has business interests in Asia, the Middle East, and even Europe, contrary to the common perception that it is a very isolated country. Office 39one of the departments of its Workers' Partyis "the ultimate slush fund", reportedly generating up to US$1.6 billion annually for Kim's lavish lifestyle, while 70 percent of people are food insecure.



"North Korea is very sophisticated in concealing the fact that it is, indeed, North Korea doing business overseas. It's good at hiding in plain sight," Andrea Berger, Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), told the program.



Nick Cunningham is a writer for Oilprice.com where this originally appeared. Home
Structural issues of the Polish-Canadian community By Mark Wegierski

Authors note: An earlier version of this article has appeared in Quarterly Review (UK). It has to be said at the outset, that the lack of meaningful intellectual and cultural infrastructures for the Polish-Canadian community is particularly troubling. While the work of professor Tamara Trojanowska, who teaches Polish Language and Literature at the University of Toronto has been considerably helpful (such as the major international conference on Polish themes that took place in February 2006), professor Piotr Wrobel, who holds the Chair of Polish History at the University of Toronto, has been seen by some as rather cool to the core concerns of the Polish-Canadian community. The author argues that the Polish-Canadian community must somehow build up significant infrastructures  or find itself fading away. Canadian Polonia is a term by which Polish-Canadians refer to themselves, synonymous with the Polish-Canadian community. Canadian Polonia has always complained about the lack of financial resources for its community endeavours. It could be argued that the place of the Polish-Canadian community in Canada is rather attenuated, despite the figures of the 2011 Canadian Census which suggest there are over a million persons of Polish descent in Canada. Vast initiatives are indeed required to raise the saliency of Canadian Polonia. Some fairly obvious directions are to increase the pressures on all levels of government (federal, provincial, regional/municipal) to provide a more equitable share of multiculturalism and other cultural-related funding to the Polish-Canadian community. It would be helpful if some systematic, comparative research could be done in this area, so that Canadian Polonia could approach the various levels of government with some solid statistics. It should also be remembered that effectively writing grant proposals and putting together grant applications is a major skill. It may also be remembered that the proposals for establishing a Polish-Canadian Defence Fund which were made some years ago, have achieved comparatively little. It could be argued that in the current-day climate, the task of watching the main Canadian media for any anti-Polish comments has to be, at least to some extent, entrusted to very competent, salaried, hopefully full-time, professional researchers. Along with writing letters-to-the-editor and letters to publishers and producers as needed, such persons could also take a pro-active role by trying to have Polish-friendly articles appear in various Canadian media. In the case of an institution like this, the funds can only come from the community itself. In these days of the Internet Two some attention must also be paid to social media strategies. There should be an attempt made to build up a reliable cadre of individuals that will reliably put forth well-phrased, pro-Polish messages  and fight back against Pole-bashing -- on the various social media and major newspaper and magazine comment threads they participate in. For example, the community should become able to raise a Twitter storm when faced by particularly egregious insults. There should be the encouragement of such helpful initiatives as Poland in the Rockies, and the Quo Vadis conferences. After resuming in 2014, the Poland in the Rockies summer event had a mid-winter meeting in early 2016 (according to the website), but apparently no summer meeting in 2016. A possible source of funding for the community that can now, one thinks, be considered, is from the various cultural institutions of the Polish state, such as the Wspolnota Polska (Polish Commonweal)  a Polish state body officially dedicated to Poles and persons of Polish descent living abroad. (The rhetoric on its website is certainly high-flown!) After all, it is over twenty-five years since the fall of Communism! It is also an unfortunate fact that in todays Poland, funds are all-too-readily found for rather dubious things  such as paying royalties for the radio-play of what is sometimes the worst of current-day American rap music, and the broadcasting of the more awful Hollywood films and TV series. Indeed, money is flowing out of Poland for all kinds of dubious things and undertakings, while the Polish overseas communities are sometimes left begging for relatively small funds. Such support could be particularly efficacious in regard to the maintenance of Polish-Canadian archival, library, and museum-type institutions, such as, the Polish Library in Montreal and the Canadian-Polish Research Institute in Toronto. It is to be hoped that perhaps some support can be found for the very elegant Polish Combatants Association (SPK) building at 206 Beverley Street (located near downtown Toronto, and near the University of Toronto campus)  so that it could be held by Polish-Canadians in perpetuity as a permanent archival, library, and museum institution. There are significant archival, library, and museum elements already in place there. Perhaps it could be eventually reconstituted as, for example, the Museum of Poland and the Poles in World War II. Although there may eventually be some help available from Poland, the efforts of the community in regard to various levels of government in Canada should be the main focus. Unfortunately, one finds oneself frequently annoyed by what could be perceived as the excessively obsequious and servile attitudes of some people in Canadian Polonia towards the alleged munificence of the federal and Ontario governments. There actually appears to have been comparatively little funding from those sources for the Polish-Canadian community, after what now seem like the glory days of the 1970s  when Stanley Haidasz was the federal Minister of Multiculturalism. I do believe, however, that things recently improved slightly when the Conservatives actively courted various ethnic electorates. It could be argued that it is indeed sometimes helpful to be extremely demanding and almost shameless in trying to obtain funding on behalf of ones own group. As far as private philanthropy, many of the more prosperous Polish-Canadians seem mostly averse to offer significant bequests (to any of the small, mostly impecunious Polish-Canadian foundations) usually preferring to leave their entire inheritance to children and grandchildren that, in some cases at least (unfortunately) care very little (or nothing at all) about Polish matters. Also, it could be argued that the track record of some major Canadian Polonia fund-raising initiatives has proven quite disappointing to the community, for example, the Chair of Polish History at the University of Toronto. Professor Wrobel is perceived by some as being very cool to core community concerns. Some worthy goals for the community could be the considerable augmenting of such institutions as the Polish Library in Montreal, the Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences in Canada (PIASC), and the Canadian-Polish Research Institute in Toronto. For example, it would be helpful if the publication of the annual scholarly journal of the Polish Library in Montreal and PIASC, could be restored. (The last extant issue appeared in 2007-2008.) Obviously, the community should try to increase support to its small, mostly impecunious foundations  notably, the Adam Mickiewicz Foundation in Canada, the Canadian-Polish Millennium Fund, and the Wladyslaw Reymont Foundation. It would be helpful to put into place such things as real scholarships for Polish-Canadian graduate students in the social sciences and humanities (as seen, for example, in some other communities, reaching an amazing $20,000 a year per person!). These scholarships should be primarily merit-based. It would also be helpful if these foundations could offer, for example, scholarships for Polish-Canadians taking journalism courses and programs, as well as for students of creative writing working on Polish themes, along with annual prizes for the best Polish-Canadian writers (rather than for already well-established, big-name authors from Poland). It would be helpful, furthermore, to augment the Polish-Canadian Publishing Fund (Polski Fundusz Wydawniczy w Kanadzie) on the understanding that it would begin to extensively publish books in English, rather than almost exclusively in Polish. It would be desirable to re-establish a Polish-Canadian literary-artistic-cultural publication along the lines of the now-defunct High Park Magazine (which published twenty-five magnificent issues between 1992 and 1998). Perhaps one of the major Polish-Canadian newspapers might be interested in having such a quarterly magazine supplement? I have also noticed that the superb Western-Canadian-based literary-artistic-cultural magazine, Strumien (Stream) has not been able to keep up annual appearances. It is presumably short of funds and needs financial assistance. A hope could also be expressed for the eventual professionalization of the executive posts of the main representative institution of Canadian Polonia  the Canadian Polish Congress (KPK). Let us be frank  in other comparatively large ethnic groups such highly responsible positions are well-remunerated. And when fund-raising is done, it is done on a highly professional basis. One need hardly add that the official buildings of the representative bodies of some other groups are considerably more imposing. Can one hope that the KPK will ever be able to break out of what has appeared to be its state of perpetual penury? The irony is that, as individuals, many Polish-Canadians do considerably or even very well in Canadian society. However, this personal success has, unfortunately, rarely been translated into greater clout and success for the community as a whole. If at least some of the initiatives mentioned above were rapidly actualized, they could create a social, cultural, and intellectual impetus that could sustain the community for many future decades! As has been frequently noted, one must in truly efficacious politics combine the cunning of the fox with the nobility of the lion. Mark Wegierski is a Toronto-based writer and historical researcher, He was born in Toronto of Polish immigrant parents. Home
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Get the latest on all the biggest court and crime news in Essex direct from our expert court reporter

A restaurateur says it will be "business as usual" after his premises had its licence revoked for hiring illegal immigrants.

The fate of the Baddow Tandoori has been in question ever since it was raided by the Home Office Immigration Service on June 14.

Shortly before 9pm, officers discovered two workers at the Indian restaurant, one who claimed to be the manager and another who said he just visiting, who had no right to work in the UK.

Despite licence holder Nurul Islam's assertions that he had attempted to make all the relevant checks, the Great Baddow restaurant's licence was revoked by a subcommittee at Chelmsford City Council today (Monday, September 18).

Mr Islam's business came to the attention of the authorities when one of the illegal workers, known as "Mr Ahmed", used the Tandoori's address in Church Street for various applications.

Mr Ahmed, who was found hiding in a downstairs cupboard, was found to be living in Galleywood on an expired student visa.

Officers found the second worker from Myanmar, known as "Mr Hoque", as he walked out of the kitchen, with food on his clothes and stained hands from working.

When asked to hand over identification, his documents revealed he had no right to work in the UK, though he claimed he was visiting from Walsall to break the Ramadan fast with friends.

Following an investigation, Essex Police applied to Chelmsford City Council to have Mr Islam's licence permanently revoked.

Representing the force, Guy Ladenberg told the panel how Mr Islam had taken "no steps to satisfy" either of the men were allowed to work or to register them properly on the PAYE system.

"There was a total lack of management of these premises," he said.

"When you have management this poor, a few conditions would not help this case."

Mr Ladenberg also explained that while Mr Hoque had a right to be in the UK but no right to work, Mr Ahmed's expired student visa afforded him neither privelege.

But David Dadds, representing Mr Islam, refuted the claim that the business management was poor, nor that any workers were paid below minimum wage as had been suggested.

He also noted that the only party backing the licence revocation was Essex Police, with no support from local residents, businesses or environmental health.

"This is a premises that has had its first review," he said.

"There's no history of any previous wrongdoing."

Turning to Mr Ahmed's employment at the restaurant, Mr Dadd confirmed his client had asked for bank details, a passport and proof of his right to work but that this had been stalled by Mr Ahmed.

Seeking a licence suspension, he said: "He is aware that going forward he's not going to be getting a second chance.

"All workers will have to provide proof of ID."

Mr Dadds also noted that the Home Office did not have to conduct their investigation with a raid.

Summing up the police case, Mr Ladenberg reiterated that neither men questioned by immigration officers had PAYE or National Insurance details and that after being in business for five years, Mr Islam should have had a better system in place.

Summing up the committee's decision, Councillor Lance Millane, chairman, said the committee felt the proper course of action was to revoke the licence as the situation was too serious to warrant a suspension.

Councillor Millaine also stated he and the committee did not feel the story put forward by Mr Hoque was believable.

Speaking on behalf of his client after the hearing, Mr Dadds confirmed the council's decision would be appealed and that it would be "business as usual".

He also stated Mr Islam had the support of many local residents and businesses in his determination to maintain his licence.

Until the outcome of the appeal, Baddow Tandoori will still be able to operate as usual, including its sale of alcohol and will stay open until 1am.

Mr Islam will have 21 days from receipt of the formal notification to file his appeal.
We have more newsletters

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

Notorious prisoner Charles Bronson is suing Essex's ITV presenter Richard Madeley for defamation.

On Good Morning Britain last year, it was incorrectly reported that Bronson, who has changed his name to Charles Salvador, had attacked a prison governor.

The hard man, 64, is now claiming that Mr Madeley slandered his name, reports The Mirror.

It came as Mr Madeley, from Romford, was interviewing former Coronation Street star Paula Williamson , who is engaged to Bronson.

He told the 37-year-old: "He keeps reoffending.

(Image: Sunday Mirror)

"We have his charge sheet. In his last incident he attacked a prison governor last year."

Paula told the host that her fiance hadn't committed an offence since 2013, and at that point, Mr Madeley looked into the camera and said: "Charlie, you're watching now. You're lying.

"You know it was 2016 mate. It was, it was last year."

The 61-year-old went on to tell Paula: "He's a bad 'un and he's got a lot of form."

According to The Sun , Good Morning Britain bosses have acknowledged receiving a notice of legal action by Bronson, who has served 36 years in solitary confinement since he was first put away for armed robbery in 1974.

(Image: ITV)

The newspaper also reports that Bronson told a friend during a phone call that his mother had been left upset by the false claims.

He said: "My mum was upset over it.

"I promised her I wouldn't get involved in more violence. She believes me."

GMB has been asked to retract the comments as well as pay out compensation.

It's reported that the mistake happened after a researcher handed Madeley the wrong prisoner's charge sheet.

(Image: Rex Features)

A spokesman for the show said: "We mistakenly stated that Mr Salvador [Bronson] had attacked a prison officer in 2016.

"This was incorrect. We are happy to make this clarification."

Mr Madeley's representatives and GMB have been approached for comment.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Get the latest on all the biggest court and crime news in Essex direct from our expert court reporter

A man who racially abused a couple in Chelmsford has had his sentencing hearing postponed after he became emotional in the dock due to his father's death.

Kevin Reed, 54, sobbed as proceedings continued around him at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Wednesday afternoon (September 13), just two hours after his father had died.

Reed, of Wheatfield Way, who had pleaded guilty to two counts of causing racially aggravated fear or provocation of violence by words at an earlier hearing, had returned to the court to be sentenced.

But the magistrates' bench felt they had no choice but to adjourn the sentencing as the defendant was clearly too distraught to continue.

Reed landed himself in the dock after he racially abused a couple who own two barber shops in Chelmsford.

On April 19, a drunken Reed went to have his hair cut at Essex Boys in Cornhill, High Chelmer, sitting down in an empty chair and cutting the queue.

"He was told he would have to wait," said prosecutor Barry Hargreaves.

"He gave a sarcastic apology and left after a short time."

Reed headed to the other branch of Essex Boys, in New London Road, where his one of his eventual victims, Tracey Simsek, would cut his hair.

But Reed had no money with him to pay for the trim so told Mrs Simsek he would return to pay the next day.

He did indeed return to the Cornhill branch the next day where he became abusive towards Mrs Simsek, whose husband, Mehmet, is of Turkish origin, about payment of the haircut.

The court heard a number of the racist remarks he screamed at Mrs Semsek including, "This is my town, who the **** do you think you are?", "You dirty ******* Turkish ****", and "You go back home".

When Mr Simsek arrived, he was also treated to a similar barrage of racism before Reed told the couple he would get "fifty men" from the pub to attack them.

Reed was then arrested on April 24 and later charged with two counts of causing racially aggravated fear or provocation of violence by words.

During his police interview, Reed told officers he "didn't have a problem" with the Simseks and that he did have a card to pay on the first day.

He also claimed Mr Simsek threatened to punch him.

Mrs Simset's victim impact statement revealed she had become stressed following the altercation and that she is "upset" when she hears people shouting in the street.

As Mr Hargreaves read from the statement, Reed began shouting from the dock and was told to be quiet.

"I can't believe how he spoke to us," said Mr Hargreaves, continuing to read the statement.

"We try to be pleasant to everyone.

"He told us we don't belong in the UK."

A distraught Reed then stood up and asked to the court's attention and said: "My dad died two hours ago and I've come to court to sort this out."

After a short discussion with his client, Sam Haldene conferred with Mr Hargreaves with both agreeing the hearing should not continue.

Mr Clubb, chairman of the bench, commended Reed for doing the right thing in answering his bail but told him he should attend to other matters.

Reed was warned he must return to court at 9.30am on September 27 for the continuation of his sentencing.

His bail was granted on the condition that he did not enter either of the Essex Boys barber shops and had no contact with his victims whatsoever.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

A Peruvian Nando's worker who was hit by a train and killed near an embankment in Chelmsford had been suffering 'relationship difficulties' before taking his own life, an inquest has heard.

Daniel De La Vega Roldan, 29, was looking at the train throughout the incident as he ran into the path of the train off Stump Lane in Springfield.

On June 8, the 07:08 train from Liverpool Street to Ipswich left Chelmsford station travelling at 60-70mph.

As the train approached Stump Lane Bridge, the train driver saw Mr Roldan run into the path of the train.

The driver applied the emergency brakes but struck the 29-year-old, of Parklands.

Police and the ambulance service were called but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The British Transport Police identified the male as Mr Roldan through fingerprints.

There was also a work identification card in his rucksack, where officers discovered he worked in Nando's and found a clocking in ticket.

Officers went to his address where they found a passport in his name. No note was found.

A post-mortem was carried out at Broomfield Hospital, with the cause of death confirmed as multiple injuries due to a collision with a train.

The toxicology report shown no drugs in his system.

Mr Roldan was born in Lima, Peru but had been living in Chelmsford at the time of his death.

Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray called British Transport Police representative Claire Tilley to give evidence during Monday morning's inquest.

Ms Tilley said: The male was 200 to 300 yards away from the striking point, but the train struck the male, he had no option. He saw no one else in the vicinity.

The male was looking at the train throughout the incident, we believe it had been a deliberate act. The incident was declared to be non-suspicious on the day.

Mrs Beasley-Murray added: The British Transport Police carried out a thorough investigation. Their view is that there were no suspicious circumstances to his death and that it was a deliberate act.

I have come to a very sad conclusion that Mr Roldan intended to take his own life.

I believe he had some relationship difficulties and was somewhat down. I conclude that Mr Roldan killed himself. What a tragedy.

Speaking on behalf of Daniel's colleagues, a Nando's spokesman said: "We are incredibly saddened by the loss of one of our team and our thoughts go out to his family and friends."
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

An Essex weapons manufacturer whose warplanes have been used by Saudi Arabia 'to devastating effect' in Yemen, is among hundreds of companies marketing their products to delegates from human rights-abusing nations.

BAE systems, which conducts research and development at a site in Chelmsford, is just one of a number of Essex companies among the 1,500 exhibiting their goods to potential buyers at the biannual Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) fair, which took place at London's ExCel Centre last week.

Government and military delegates from 56 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey and Bahrain, were invited to attend DSEI  which is co-hosted by the Defence and Security Organisation, the section of the Government's Department for International Trade tasked with assisting weapons manufacturers with international exports.

Six of the countries invited to DSEI, including Saudi Arabia, have been included on the UK Government's own watch list of human rights abusers, while nine are considered to have authoritarian regimes.

Andrew Smith of Campaign Against the Arms Trade (CAAT) described the guest list as a "roll call of despots, dictatorships and human rights abusers".

He added: "They will be greeted by civil servants and Government ministers who are there for one reason only: to promote weapons.

"It's impossible to promote human rights and democracy while arming and supporting authoritarian regimes and tyrants."

Other local companies exhibiting at DSEI are Harlow-based Raytheon, whose bombs have also been sold to Saudi Arabia and dropped in Yemen, and Basildon's Leonardo, formerly Finmeccanica, whose T129 attack helicopters have been used against Kurdish rebels in Turkey.

Hundreds of British Kurds gathered outside the ExCel Centre ahead of DSEI in protest at the British Government's continued support of arms exports to Turkey, arguing that British weapons sold at the fair would be used against Kurds in Turkey and Syria.

BAE, the world's third largest arms producer, supplies weapons including aircraft, warships, tanks and artillery to customers in over 100 countries.

Their Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft have played "a central role in Saudi Arabia's attacks in Yemen", according to CAAT, while missiles produced by their subsidiary company, MBDA, have been confirmed to have been dropped on the war-ravished country.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has left three million people malnourished  including half a million children described by Oxfam as being in a "life-threatening condition"  and 20 million, or 75 per cent of the population, in need of humanitarian aid.

According to a recent report by the United Nations (UN), more than 60 per cent of the more than 10,000 civilian deaths in the war-ravaged country have been the result of Saudi-led air strikes, which began in March 2015, with Amnesty International accusing them of displaying an "appalling disregard for civilian lives".

The UK has sold more than 3.6 billion worth of arms to Saudi Arabia  its biggest customer  since the devastating conflict began, according to campaign group Control Arms.

Andrew Smith said: "The war in Yemen may feel far away and removed, but there are companies on our doorsteps that have profited from the destruction every step of the way.

"Companies like BAE and Raytheon have not just fuelled the bombardment, they have aided and facilitated it.

"Their equipment has been used to devastating effect."

In July, a High Court ruled that arms exports could continue to Saudi Arabia after a legal challenge led by CAAT, despite mounting humanitarian concerns.

The UK Government had previously been revealed to be considering suspending sales to Saudi Arabia following the 2016 bombing of a funeral in Yemen which killed 140 civilians.

Neither BAE nor Raytheon responded to a request for comment.
We have more newsletters

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

The iconic Yellow Pages has announced it will no longer be printed after more than 50 years.

Yell, the company who own the Yellow Pages, delivered the shocking blow last week revealing the 51-year-old phone directory was being scrapped for a digital only service.

A final print run of 23 million copies next year will mark the end of the go-to phone book.

Before the wonders of Google, the Yellow Pages offered people business numbers galore from accountants and builders to hairdressers, plumbers and vets.

This heartbreaking news comes after the Mirror reported that stores in Scotland and several unnamed locations in England have been earmarked for the trial as Argos "tests demand" for the hefty catalogue in 2017.

The news hit some people quite hard with people taking to social media to condemn the move.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

Customers flying with Ryanair are facing travel chaos over the next six weeks as up to 50 flights a day are being axed.

The low budget airline announced on Friday (September 16) that it would be axing thousands of flights until the end of October due to a mix up with pilots' holidays, the Mirror reports.

With Ryanair flying plenty of routes of Stansted Airport this region is set to be particularly badly affected by the cancelled flights.

More than 50 flights to and from Stansted Airport from yesterday (September 17) to Wednesday (September 20) have already been axed by Ryanair.

Ryanair's marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said: "We have messed up in the planning of pilot holidays and we're working hard to fix that."

Robin Kiely, head of communication at Ryanair, added: "We apologise sincerely to the small number of customers affected by these cancellations, and will be doing our utmost to arrange alternative flights and/or full refunds for them."

The Mercury reported yesterday that two Essex women Tarryn Sullivan, 22 from Chelmsford, and Christie Driver, 23, from Colchester had been left stranded in Budapest after their flight back to Stansted Airport was cancelled.

But what are your rights if you are effected and are left trapped abroad or stuck at home after having a flight axed?

Under the European Passenger Rights legislation passengers are protected if an airline does cancel your flight.

Travel expert Simon Calder said: "The rules say if the airline doesn't have a suitable alternative flight, you have to be booked on a rival airline."

And he said passengers should be able to claim compensation for the cancellations.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

American pop star Lady Gaga has cancelled a number of European tour dates due to ill health.

The Joanne World Tour Concert was expected to begin this coming Thursday (September 21) in Barcelona, Spain, before concluding on October 28 in Koln, Germany.

During that time, Gaga, whose real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, was expected to play five dates in the United Kingdom - including two at The O2 Arena in London, two at the Genting Arena in Birmingham and one at the Manchester Arena in Manchester.

However, due to Lady Gaga suffering for severe physical pain that has impacted her ability to perform, all European dates have been postponed until early 2018.

A statement, released by tour organisers Live Nation on Monday (September 18) morning, said: "Live Nation confirmed today the European leg of Lady Gaga Joanne World Tour Concert has unfortunately been postponed until early 2018.

"The six-week European leg of the tour was scheduled to begin on September 21 in Barcelona, Spain and conclude on October 28 in Koln, Germany.

"Lady Gaga is suffering from severe physical pain that has impacted her ability to perform. She remains under the care of expert medical professionals who recommended the postponement earlier today.

"Lady Gaga is devastated that she has to wait to perform for her European fans. She plans to spend the next seven weeks proactively working with her doctors to heal from this and past traumas that still affect her daily life, and result in severe physical pain in her body.

"She wants to give her fans the best version of the show she built for them when the tour resumes.

(Image: Lady Gaga - Facebook)

"Lady Gaga sends her love to all her fans across Europe and thanks them for their support and understanding.

"As the tour is currently working on rescheduling the European dates, fans should hold onto their existing tickets pending the announcement of additional information once it is available.

"The second North American leg of the tour is scheduled to continue as planned.

"Live Nation and Lady Gaga apologize sincerely for the inconvience."

Following the official announcement, Lady Gaga has shared images on social media of her current surrounding in hospital, along with a heartfelt message to her fans.

It said: "I have always been honest about my physical and mental health struggles. Searching for years to get to the bottom of them. It is complicated and difficult to explain, and we are trying to figure it out.

"As I get stronger and when I feel ready, I will tell my story in more depth, and plan to take this on strongly so I can not only raise awareness, but expand research for others who suffer as I do, so I can help make a difference.

"I use the word "suffer" not for pity, or attention, and have been disappointed to see people online suggest that I'm being dramatic, making this up, or playing the victim to get out of touring. If you knew me, you would know this couldn't be further from the truth. I'm a fighter.

"I use the word suffer not only because trauma and chronic pain have changed my life, but because they are keeping me from living a normal life. They are also keeping me from what I love the most in the world: performing for my fans.

"I am looking forward to touring again soon, but I have to be with my doctors right now so I can be strong and perform for you all for the next 60 years or more. I love you so much."
To be good citizens, faithful people must examine policies results, not just their intentions. One overly intrusive environmentalist policy alone has prevented the poor from accessing adequate housing and, ironically, reduced the diversity of the environment. If excluding the vulnerable from the economy is evil, as Pope Francis has written, then new approaches are needed, writes Philip Booth, a distinguished British professor of finance in a new essay for Religion & Liberty Transatlantic.

He begins by opening an earnest dialogue with the pontiffs social concerns:

Pope Francis likes to talk about how we have created an economy of exclusion. For example, in his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis wrote, Just as the commandment Thou shalt not kill sets a clear limit in order to safeguard the value of human life, today we also have to say thou shalt not to an economy of exclusion.

The marginalized are often excluded from the markets through cronyism  but Transparency International ranks the UK among the least corrupt governments in the world. Instead, Booth writes, land use policy has contributed to the nations growing and seemingly intractable housing crisis by preventing the market from relieving the pressure of the housing market.

Its elementary supply-and-demand. Booth  a professor of finance, public policy, and ethics at the UKs largest Catholic university (St. Marys University, Twickenham), as well as a senior academic fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs  explains the intentions and impact of restricting much of the supply of land from being used for new homes. The latter have been disastrous, as he writes in this summary:

People are literally excluded from the housing market by prohibitions on building; they are prevented by the cost of housing from moving from areas dominated by high unemployment or low wages to areas of high wages and low unemployment. High land prices lead to higher business costs and less business competition, raising other household costs. And the least-well-off are prevented from having dignified housing and attaining a level of disposable income after housing costs that would allow them to buy other necessities and have some money left over to save for times of greater need.

Because of high housing costs, 157,000 British children were never born, according to the London-based Adam Smith Institute.

At the same time, restrictions assigning vast swaths of land to agricultural use have actually diminished the number, species, and variety of animal and plant life, Booth notes. After his carefully developed and rigorously supported argument, he concludes:

In Britain, no single policy would benefit the poor more than a liberalisation of planning regulation. It would help ensure that all families could own a property (home ownership is at a 30-year low), something which many proponents of Catholic social teaching regard as intrinsically valuable. Whatever the fears that many have from over-development, counter-intuitively, in many respects, more building on land hitherto used for agriculture might well actually also improve the environment.

You can read his full essay here.

(Photo credit: Rennett Stowe. This photo has been cropped. CC BY 2.0.)
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

For daily updates and all the latest breaking news sent straight to your inbox sign up to our daily newsletter

An eight year-old girl from Wickford is on the verge of having her hair cut to raise money for a terminally-ill friend.

Isabelle Keevil, from Haslemere Road in Wickford, is aiming to raise 300 and is donating her locks to charity after hearing that five year-old friend Olivia Gregory had been diagnosed with an inoperable and aggressive brain tumour called a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).

DIPG has a 0 per cent survival rate, with the average survival time being around nine months from diagnosis. Just ten per cent of children survive for two years after diagnosis and one per cent live for five years after diagnosis.

After being diagnosed at Great Ormond Street Hospital in June 2017, Olivia has already undergone emergency neurosurgery to implant a shunt in her brain to relieve the symptom of Hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) caused by the tumour, as well as biopsy surgery to remove tissue around her brain and six weeks of radiotherapy at UCLH London.

Speaking about her daughters incredible kindness to try and do anything to help save her friend, Isabelles mum Sarah, who also has a four year-old daughter called Tallulah, told Essex Live: I was brushing Isabelles hair one morning and because it is so long and thick, we were having the same argument like most mothers and their daughters have every morning about the amount of knots in her hair.

She turned to me and said that she wanted to get her hair cut, to which I said that she wasnt allowed because her hair is really nice and long.

Isabelle then said to me that she wanted to get it cut so that she can raise money for Olivia and so that she can donate her hair, to which I couldnt really say no.

At first, I was shocked because although Isabelle is aware that Olivia is poorly, she has never really mentioned it because kids are very resilient and they just get on with it.

I didnt really know that Isabelle had been thinking about it too much and when she told me what she wanted to do, I was really shocked at the kindness and thoughtfulness.

Ive explained to her that her hair wont just grow back overnight and what it involves, but she understands and Im just immensely proud of her for wanting to do something so kind for a friend.

Sarah, who co-runs Facebook group Crimewatch Wickford, met Olivias mum Clare Gregory a number of years ago, where they bonded over the fact that they both had daughters of similar ages.

Having grown an extremely close bond with the Gregory family, Sarah admitted that the news shocked her family and that is was heart-breaking that there is nothing they can do to keep Olivia alive.

Olivia and her family are really close friends of ours, she continued.

Clare and I met a couple of years ago and because we've both got two girls each of similar ages, we have all become very close.

It is devastating because you go from one minute where you are seeing the family and everything is normal and happy to hearing that Olivia is ill and there is no return from it.

It isnt just hearing the news though because you also see it every week that you go round to visit, when you see Olivia that little bit more poorly and it is heart-breaking really.

I cant even imagine what they are going through as a family and there is nothing we can do to help apart from helping to fundraise and offer them our love and support.

We can do all that, but there is nothing we can do to help save Olivia and that breaks our hearts.

The amount of people that have come out in support for the family has been amazing  whether that is offering money, services for future fundraising or love and support.

It has been immense and it is all because of how wonderful that family is.

To support Isabelle during her charity mission, which has been called The Rapunzel Cut, please visit Isabelles GoFundMe page by clicking here.

Also, you can read more about Olivia and her battle by visiting the 'Help Olivia Fight DIPG' Facebook page by clicking here.
ETAN condemns attack on Jakarta human rights gathering



For more information contact:

John M. Miller, +1-917-690-4391; john@etan.org



Sept. 18, 2017 - The East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) strongly condemns the



The hardline groups of today are alarmingly similar to the paramilitaries of the New Order regime. Indonesia must learn from the past and ensure that this time these groups do not enjoy any impunity.



"The events over the past weekend are a leap backwards in Indonesia's transition from military dictatorship to democracy," said ETAN's National Coordinator John M. Miller. "The hardline groups of today are alarmingly similar to the paramilitaries of the New Order regime. Indonesia must learn from the past and ensure that this time these groups do not enjoy any impunity."



"Freedom of speech and assembly are central to democracy," added Miller. "Indonesia needs more, not less, discussion of past human rights violations. Furthermore, the victims of those crimes from 1965 on need justice."



Background



Crowd outside LBH offices. Photo via @LBH_Jakarta. Hundreds of self-proclaimed anti-communists began demonstrating at the LBH building on Saturday, September 16, against a planned discussion between survivors of the



After police cancelled the planned discussion, LBH-Jakarta responded by quickly organizing a cultural event on Sunday, September 17 titled "Asik Asik Aksi: Darurat Demokrasi" [Fun and Action: Democratic Emergency]. After a few hours of music and poetry, the participants found they were unable to safely leave the building as it had been surrounded by an increasingly angry mob.



Despite a heavy police and military presence, the mob terrorized those trapped inside for hours, chanting anti-communist slogans, death threats, and throwing rocks and bottles. After midnight the police began using tear gas against the protesters, and in the early hours of September 18 those inside the LBH building were finally able to leave. In contrast to the increasingly heavy-handed approach towards peaceful protests organized by Papuan independence supporters, reports on social media indicate state security forces showed reluctance to confront the so-called anti-communist protesters. Although hundreds are regularly detained in Jakarta and Jayapura when peacefully protesting human rights violations in Papua, only five people were arrested on suspicion of provoking the violence.



The LBH building in Cikini houses two of Indonesia's most prominent civil society organizations, the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (Y-LBHI) and the Jakarta Legal Aid Institute (LBH Jakarta), which engage in human rights legal advocacy and provide legal support for poor and marginalized groups. The building is centrally located and its facilities are often shared with other civil society organizations.



see also For more information contact:John M. Miller, +1-917-690-4391; john@etan.orgSept. 18, 2017 - The East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) strongly condemns the recent attacks against the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (LBH) headquarters in Jakarta."ETAN is shocked and saddened to see such brazen attacks against a peaceful gathering of civil society in Indonesia's capital," said John M. Miller, National Coordinator of ETAN. "We join others in Indonesia and around the world in calling on the Indonesian government to prosecute those responsible for the violence and take immediate steps to end the thuggish threats against Indonesian civil society.""The events over the past weekend are a leap backwards in Indonesia's transition from military dictatorship to democracy," said ETAN's National Coordinator John M. Miller. "The hardline groups of today are alarmingly similar to the paramilitaries of the New Order regime. Indonesia must learn from the past and ensure that this time these groups do not enjoy any impunity.""Freedom of speech and assembly are central to democracy," added Miller. "Indonesia needs more, not less, discussion of past human rights violations. Furthermore, the victims of those crimes from 1965 on need justice."Hundreds of self-proclaimed anti-communists began demonstrating at the LBH building on Saturday, September 16, against a planned discussion between survivors of the 1965-1967 massacres and their allies. Fueled by an online smear campaign, suspected members of hardline groups gathered outside the office and claimed those inside were members of the long-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).After police cancelled the planned discussion, LBH-Jakarta responded by quickly organizing a cultural event on Sunday, September 17 titled "Asik Asik Aksi: Darurat Demokrasi" [Fun and Action: Democratic Emergency]. After a few hours of music and poetry, the participants found they were unable to safely leave the building as it had been surrounded by an increasingly angry mob.Despite a heavy police and military presence, the mob terrorized those trapped inside for hours, chanting anti-communist slogans, death threats, and throwing rocks and bottles. After midnight the police began using tear gas against the protesters, and in the early hours of September 18 those inside the LBH building were finally able to leave. In contrast to the increasingly heavy-handed approach towards peaceful protests organized by Papuan independence supporters, reports on social media indicate state security forces showed reluctance to confront the so-called anti-communist protesters. Although hundreds are regularly detained in Jakarta and Jayapura when peacefully protesting human rights violations in Papua, only five people were arrested on suspicion of provoking the violence.The LBH building in Cikini houses two of Indonesia's most prominent civil society organizations, the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (Y-LBHI) and the Jakarta Legal Aid Institute (LBH Jakarta), which engage in human rights legal advocacy and provide legal support for poor and marginalized groups. The building is centrally located and its facilities are often shared with other civil society organizations.see also





Indonesia and West Papua Struggles Human Rights & Justice page SUPPORT ETAN! ETAN is "A voice of reason, criticizing the administration's reluctance to address ongoing human rights violations and escalating oppression in West Papua and against religious minorities throughout Indonesia." Noam Chomsky Donate Today!

Become an ETAN Sustainer, make a pledge via credit card here Background | Take Action | News | Links | What You Can Do | Resources | Contact ETAN Store | Estafeta | Images | Home | Timor Postings | Search | Site Index | Follow ETAN s
BANGALORE, India and MARSEILLE, France, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

- Seven-year partnership with Infosys to enhance CMA CGM's customer service experience - Infosys to establish a Delivery Center in Marseille to attract and enhance local expertise

The CMA CGM Group, a world leader in container shipping, and Infosys [enlace ] , a global leader in consulting, technology and next-generation services, today announced a strategic seven-year partnership which will simplify and transform CMA CGM's IT applications and improve customer service experience.

(Logo: enlace )

As part of the agreement, and at the request of CMA CGM, Infosys will open a Delivery Center (DC) in Marseille, which will become a key hub attracting and enhancing local expertise.

Infosys will also acquire CMA CGM's Innovation and Delivery Center in Dubai, UAE, expanding its footprint in the Middle East.

Through this partnership:

- Infosys will provide CMA CGM with the skills required to maintain its applications and develop its SAP projects. Infosys will also provide CMA CGM with new high value-added technologies that will improve its agility and responsiveness. - As part of its ongoing digital transformation, CMA CGM will use Infosys Nia's artificial intelligence platform and its scalable automation platform, AssistEdge, to revamp its customer service, improve process execution and enhance internal performance.

These new systems will allow CMA CGM to be more flexible and innovative in a dynamic industry.

Rajesh Krishnamurthy, President and Head of Europe, Infosys, said, "Simplifying the technology footprint and leveraging next-generation technologies is the need of the hour for the hyper-competitive shipping and logistics industry. We look forward to helping CMA CGM leapfrog to the next-generation of software-led business innovation which is customer friendly, cost effective and flexible. Infosys is keen to leverage its logistics industry experience and assist CMA CGM with its business transformation journey."

Rodolphe Saade, CEO, CMA CGM, said, "Innovation and digitalization are at the heart of our strategy. Our ambition is to create a competitive advantage by offering our customers state-of-the-art technologies. The partnership with Infosys is key to attaining this objective. By setting up their Center for Innovation in Marseille, CMA CGM, as well as the region, will benefit from both their expertise and their proximity."

About CMA CGM

CMA CGM, founded by Jacques R. Saade, is a leading worldwide shipping group. Its 445 vessels call more than 370 ports in the world on all 5 continents. In 2016, they carried 15.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). Now headed by Rodolphe Saade, CMA CGM enjoys a continuous growth and keeps innovating to offer its customers new maritime, terrestrial, and logistical solutions. With a presence in 160 countries and through its 600 agencies network, the Group employs 29,000 people worldwide, including 2,400 in its headquarters in Marseille.

Follow the CMA CGM Group on

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cmacgm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cmacgm

YouTube: enlace

LinkedIn: enlace

Instagram: http://instagram.com/cmacgm

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in technology services and consulting. We enable clients in 45 countries to create and execute strategies for their digital transformation. From engineering to application development, knowledge management and business process management, we help our clients find the right problems to solve, and to solve these effectively. Our team of 198,000+ innovators, across the globe, is differentiated by the imagination, knowledge and experience, across industries and technologies that we bring to every project we undertake.

Visit http://www.infosys.com to see how Infosys can help your enterprise thrive in the digital age.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements in this press release concerning our future growth prospects are forward-looking statements regarding our future business expectations intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, and unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. These filings are available at http://www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. In addition, please note that any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of the date of this press release. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the company unless it is required by law.

Disclosure under SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015: -

(CONTINUA)
Cine

Muere en el aeropuerto de Paris el refugiado irani que inspiro La terminal de Spielberg y Tom Hanks
Hi all,

Good morning!

Recently, I have taken PTE Academic and got 10 points, which increased my score to apply for 189 visa (60 points) and 190 visa (65 points) types.



Currently I am eligible to apply only for NSW and Victoria states. Could you please suggest me on applying for both the states with two different EOIs using the same email id is a wise decision or not?

If I apply two EOIs, will either of the state deny my application in any case?



My occupation list and points score -

ICT Developer Programmer - 261312

Age (35 years) - 25 points

Education (BE) - 15 points

Experience (assessed by ACS - 5+ years) - 10 points

PTE Academic (S-69, W-88, R-73, L-80) - 10 points

Total - 60 points
Hi there, was hoping someone could shed some light on whether the CRS certificate, (if translated) is relevant in France? and would it be enough to register as self employed to do labouring on sites? Thanks in advance!
Fast food restaurant chain Pollo Tropical will close its remaining six restaurants in Texas because of a lack of brand awareness, the chain's parent company announced Friday.

Fiesta Restaurant Group, which owns the Pollo Tropical and Taco Cabana chains, closed four Pollo Tropical locations in San Antonio and two in Houston on Friday, the Addison-based company said in a news release.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The ship lurched in and out of 15-foot waves in what felt like a never-ending storm.

Spanning 30 days and two oceans, the Puerto Rican soldiers barely survived the journey to Korea. Their stomachs rejected the American food they werent used to eating, and when they werent vomiting, they had to chip rust from the ship, retrieved from mothballs by the U.S. Army.

And all that before we even got to land, said Victor Lopez Nieves of San Antonio, 89, a retired sergeant major who was aboard the ship.

He and 14 other veterans of the 65th Infantry Regiment embarked Sunday on a much easier trip to South Korea, three of them flying from San Antonio to Chicago, then meeting everyone in Seoul for a reunion tour.

The torturous voyage in 1950 was the first of a series of hardships the soldiers would face in a war launched when North Koreas communist forces invaded South Korea. A democratic and prosperous South Korea eventually emerged decades after a bloody stalemate and shaky truce signed in 1953, but the conflict became known as the forgotten war, overshadowed by World War II and Vietnam.

In recent years, Americans have started remembering  and not just the war, which has returned to national attention as North Korea amped up its nuclear weapons tests, but the forgotten soldiers who fought in it.

The heroism of the 65th Infantry was only briefly noted at the time, amid a cascade of American defeats. The regiment formed the rear guard of the legendary Marine retreat from the Chosin Reservoir in December 1950, when China entered the war, and it fought on until the armistice. It was almost all Puerto Rican, a throwback in an Army that had integrated only a few years earlier, and it faced discrimination in battle and for years afterward.

They called themselves the Borinqueneers, derived from borinquen, the Taino indigenous word for the Caribbean island and U.S. territory. An award-winning 2007 documentary, The Borinqueneers, sparked a movement to recognize the veterans, by then in their late 80s and early 90s, and they were awarded a Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.

The films director, Noemi Figueroa Soulet, arranged for 15 of them, including three South Texans, accompanied by a family member or friend, to make the free six-day trip through the South Korean governments Revisit Korea program. A fourth South Texan, Delcio Rivera-Rosario of San Antonio, had planned to make the trip but in the end had to stay behind for his health.

As a former colony and now a commonwealth, we dont have the right to vote in U.S. elections, and yet we serve in the military and we can be drafted, Soulet said. Its a paradox, but for many of the veterans of the 65th it became an incentive to be even more patriotic, to prove themselves in battle 200 percent.

Lopez Nieves said hes looking forward to seeing the battlegrounds, including a river they had to cross while under fire.

Im also looking forward to seeing the new faces of the Korean people, Lopez Nieves said. And I guess thats about it. Im mostly looking forward to surviving.

Into the line

On their first night in Korea, the Puerto Rican soldiers were put in the front line at 3 a.m. They dug trenches that quickly became pools of rainwater and were told to fire at anything coming at them.

Lopez Nieves and his comrades did that for 12 months straight.

When youre young, you have no common sense, he said. We would laugh about the whole thing. When we came under attack by artillery fire, or mortar fire, everyone was flapping about or jumping in front. And praying.

It was an eerie feeling, Lopez Nieves said. You kiss mother earth, and you dig with your own hands when youre trying to take cover. And then when it was over, you just get up and laugh about it  if you were still alive. We lost quite a few people.

He never could understand why he was spared.

The 3rd Infantry Division, to which the 65th was attached, would be called the fire brigade for its timely arrival and bravery. Lopez Nieves said his unit seemed to navigate the terrain better, the mountains being similar to those in Puerto Rico. The men were extremely close, with a shared language and culture.

We all knew each other, said Ismael Nevarez, 91, of San Antonio, a retired sergeant first class. He worked in communications for the Army, and joined the 65th because his brother was in it.

I wanted to be with them, and be part of my community, he said.

At one point during Nevarezs 10-month stay, Air Force pilots misidentified his troops as enemy forces. Nevarez saved them by displaying an ally symbol while using his whole body to point away from his station and toward enemy forces.

The jets barreling toward them saw his signs and, in the last fraction of a second, turned away. Nevarez was awarded a Bronze Star.

One time I wrote my wife a letter when things were bad, and I said I could be killed any day, he said. Every day was a bad day. You were expecting anything could happen at any time.

The Korean War was Puerto Ricos bloodiest. About 61,000 Puerto Ricans served in it, with 2,376 of them wounded or killed, Soulet said. One in every 42 U.S. casualties was Puerto Rican  a startling number considering the territory had just over 2 million people.

The regiments soldiers earned one Medal of Honor, 12 Distinguished Service Crosses, 263 Silver Stars, 1,155 Bronze Stars and 2,721 Purple Hearts, Soulet said.

They drew praise from Gen. Douglas MacArthur but their service was peppered with accounts of being forced to shave their mustaches, of a lack of cold-weather uniforms and other unequal treatment. The troops were sometimes derided as rum and coke soldiers. An entire company was arrested and 95 infantrymen court-martialed for refusing to fight  they were reacting to the firing of their colonel after the Chinese forced another company off a hill, and were later pardoned.

Nevarez said some asked if he was in the Puerto Rican army  as if Puerto Rico was separate from the U.S. His daughter, Olga Custodio, a San Antonian who became the first Hispanic female pilot in the Air Force, said shes experienced the same thing.

We value our U.S. citizenship. As Puerto Ricans we have to, even if we havent been recognized as we should, Nevarez said.

They waited so long (for recognition), said Edwin Custodio, Olgas husband. And so many have already died and didnt even know.

Never seen before

Born in Nuevo Leon, Daniel Jaime of McAllen, now 85 and a retired master sergeant, was one of the few Mexican-American soldiers in the 65th. On Sunday, he met Nevarez and Lopez Nieves at San Antonio International Airport just after dawn to begin their long flight.

Theyll make stops at the Korean National Cemetery, a folk village and the demilitarized zone. For many, their memories are of a ravaged, war-torn country with a harsh climate.

All I remember was dirt. It was either dirt or everything was burned up, Nevarez said. It will be a surprise to see a Korea Ive never seen before.

While the Revisit Korea program has been offering free flights for veterans for years, Soulet found many Puerto Rican veterans were unaware of the opportunity. Its an example, she said, of how those in the 65th and other Hispanics are often left out, though she speculated that the language difference has contributed to that isolation.

In 2014, about 300 surviving Borinqueneers had a shining moment, presented with the Congressional Gold Medal in Washington, belting out their traditional song, El Viejo San Juan.

Until then, Lopez Nieves had never talked about the war.

For so long, you just want to forget, he said. All of that opened me up to remember and to talk about my experiences. Im proud of what I did  before, I wasnt. Were a quiet people. We were just left alone, not boisterous about anything. But I am proud of what we accomplished.

sfosterfrau@express-news.net
DUNLAY  Proponents of a new rail spur under construction here tout its future promise as an economic development catalyst for Medina County.

Its already delivering dust clouds and heartache to residents nearby.

It scares us to death, said Shirley Voigt, 71, noting that gravel-laden trains will pass 200 feet from her bedroom window, on a neighbors land across County Road 4643. This is going to change our whole life.

Southwest Gulf Railroads estimated 9-mile track will initially have trains hauling rock from a Quihi-area quarry owned by Vulcan Materials, the railroads parent company, but trains also could carry freight for other entities because of the lines status as a common carrier.

Looking forward to opening the short line in 2019, the railroad is marketing it in concert with area groups.

We are committed to Medina County and excited about bringing new jobs, generating new tax revenues and spurring economic growth throughout the area, said Scott Burnham, spokesman for the railroad company.

Project opponents say they expect little demand for service on the dead-end line thats to run north across rural ranch land from existing Union Pacific tracks in this small, unincorporated community on U.S. 90 between Castroville and Hondo.

They want a state district court to examine the common carrier designation, which granted the company eminent domain authority. That allowed the company to condemn property if landowners refused to provide easements needed for the tracks.

Were fighting to protect private property rights in Texas, said Robert Fitzgerald, president of the Medina County Environmental Action Association.

The grass-roots group of about 100 families has fought the quarry/rail project since it was proposed around 2000. Many added covenants to their land deeds that barred use by trains, which the company was able to override with its eminent domain power.

The association filed a lawsuit over the quarry but settled that in 2006 after Vulcan agreed to leave a vegetative buffer around the dig site, among other concessions.

The group also opposed the federal Surface Transportation Boards 2008 authorization allowing the rail company to build and operate a common carrier line.

After a seven-year pause in activity, the company moved ahead with condemnation lawsuits in 2016 and in seeking approvals for safety equipment where tracks will cross seven area roads.

On Friday, the company released a letter from County Commissioner Timothy Neuman approving the companys proposal to install lights, crossing arms and signs at five county roads, exceeding state requirements.

The association wants Neuman to demand that the railroad honor long-ago pledges by Vulcan officials to install overpasses  called grade separated crossings  at County Road 4516 and FM 2676, a state road.

Why does the county not fight for an overpass? asked Alyne Fitzgerald, association secretary and Robert Fitzgeralds wife. Its the safest kind of crossing, and SGR would pay for it.

Neuman, who could not be reached Friday, said in the letter that current vehicle traffic counts dont warrant an overpass on CR 4516 but may in the future.

Laura Lopez, Texas Department of Transportation spokeswoman, said the agency is assessing the companys request to install a grade level crossing on FM 2676.

The new rail spur, costing tens of millions of dollars, and the quarry are forecast to generate $400,000 in new tax revenue for the county annually.

The investment will create approximately 150 construction jobs over the two-year construction phase and will operate with approximately 50 full-time jobs, Burnham said.

The prospect of new jobs is welcomed by many residents, as is anything that cuts gravel truck traffic on roads in the area, which is rich with quarries.

Vulcan has said 850 daily truck trips would be needed to move the 5 million tons of rock planned to be mined annually, versus using two 100-car trains.

Alyne Fitzgerald calls that scenario logistically impossible and notes that even with the rail line, its estimated 20 percent of the rock will be moved by truck.

The arrival of earthmovers and dump trucks last month sparked feelings of dread and anger.

We have our home and land just how we want it, Voigt said. We worked really hard to get it this way. Then you wake up one day and your whole world has changed.

Voigt said that even if she and her husband, Harold, sold their residence of 20 years, as they are considering, she doubts that theyd get full value because of the nearby rail line.

That line now seems destined for completion, but association members continue prodding public officials, scouring regulatory records for possible missteps by the company and paying lawyers to plead their case.

In a Sept. 7 letter that addressed concerns recently lodged by the association, STB official Victoria Rutson said that the time for MCEAA to raise objections on the boards decision granting construction authority has long passed.

Confidential settlements were reached in SGR condemnation suits with 19 of the 20 landowners from whom easements were acquired, Burnham said.

Still unresolved is litigation with Richard Fournier, who court records show was offered $80,000 for the easement that bisects his property.

His lawyer calls that inadequate and wants the court to reject SGRs common carrier designation for The Medina Line, which would effectively rescind its condemnation authority.

Fitzgeralds group plans to ask the judge to let it file a brief supporting Fourniers challenge to common carrier designation. They complain that Neuman and County Judge Chris Schuchart have kept them in the dark on the projects progress, citing newly disclosed meetings between county leaders and SGR and TxDOT.

They said they would keep us informed, and they havent, Robert Fitzgerald said.

The officials deny concealing developments on the project, an issue that Schuchart said hasnt been on the agenda of a Commissioners Court meeting since he took office.

If they ask me about what I know, I tell them, Schuchart said Friday, revealing that the company had submitted its long-awaited design plans to the county Sept. 11.

He disclosed attending eight meetings with SGR since December in a Sept. 8 letter that rebutted Fitzgeralds claims that the company hadnt properly consulted with county officials, as specified by the Surface Transportation Board.

Burnham said the company has been totally transparent with the community and expressed frustration at continuing local efforts to derail the project.

Weve also gone through a long and lengthy process and received all the necessary approvals. At the eleventh hour, they are rehashing their same arguments, which have all been dismissed, he said.

Schuchart said no constituents have raised conflict-of-interest concerns to him over his past legal work for Vulcan. He said he hasnt made decisions concerning the project and would recuse himself on any vote on it by the Commissioners Court.

No one unaffiliated with Fitzgeralds group has expressed objections to him over the project, Schuchart said, adding that the rest of them dont care if this happens or not.

Its here, he said. Ive always said I dont look at it as a bad thing for the county.

zeke@express-news.net
The auditorium was packed when Barbara Collins Bowie stepped out to tell her story at the New York Historical Society Museum & Library this summer.

The balcony also was full, she recalled, creating a loud buzz of anticipation. The crowd grew quiet as Bowie, clad in a white linen dress, walked up to the microphone and began weaving her tale about awakening to the Civil Rights Movement.

Shimmering in the spotlight, she recalled growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, where white-only signs were posted throughout downtown. She remembers the time that her mother pulled her from the sidewalk to let a white person pass. She has painful memories of how her sick mother died at a hospital after hours of nurses placing white patients ahead of her.

And Bowie spoke about how her older brother, Jesse James Davis, inspired her as one of the Mississippi Freedom Riders, who rode buses through the South to challenge segregated interstate travel laws. She hopes the nation never returns to those days, but she is concerned about the rise of protestors who rally for a divided America.

Im extremely upset because one of the main reasons for getting involved was so our kids and grandkids wouldnt have to go through that, Bowie, 70, said. There has been a lot of progress but thats because we were on the ground working. Its not the same today, its different, but its still racism and its still wrong.

The story Bowie told in New York City that June day, titled The Freedom Riders and Me, was recorded for a Moth Podcast as part of a response to the white nationalists protest in Charlottesville, Virginia. Catherine McCarthy, manager of The Moth education program, said Bowies story was a testament to what the nation has to lose.

I think a lot of us have grown up thinking that was a long time ago and that was in our past, McCarthy said. People sharing their truths and exploring identities on stage at the microphone is a powerful act. Everyday folk talking about their lives in itself is an act of social justice and democratization of the art form.

McCarthy said listeners have responded to the powerful podcast. A woman who had listened to Bowies story told her she started crying at hearing things that her father, who had similar experiences, had never talked about.

That really struck me, McCarthy said. There is so much power and those tiny details give you access to understand another persons life experience.

This the 20th year that The Moth has provided a stage for storytellers of all ages from all across the country, including high school students, actors, civil rights leaders, authors, refugees, prison inmates and Nobel Laureates. Novelist George Dawes Green founded The Moth after nights of spinning tales with a small group of friends on a back porch in Georgia. Named for the moths that fluttered through a hole in a screen, Moth events, such as Bowies address and story slams, are recorded to be experienced by others on the radio and in books.

As a child, Bowie never envisioned a day when people would line up to hear her, nor could she have predicted the milestones she has achieved. Bowie is the first African American woman on the Kirby City Council and director of The Bowie Foundation, which helps youth use fine arts to realize their artistic abilities at an early age. And, as executive director of the Bowie Scholarship Foundation, she regularly brings Freedom Riders to speak at local schools.

Bowies appearance on the New York stage had its roots in a Texas Public Radio broadcast that aired several years ago. In promoting one of her groups events on that broadcast, she talked about the Freedom Riders. When the Moth Mainstage live show came to San Antonio in April, they found her story in TPRs archives and asked her to participate in the show at the Majestic Theatre. The New York invitation came shortly after that.

Now, shes entertaining other speaking opportunities, thankful to the Moth producers for giving her a way to share stories with the world. With the recent passing of her brother, Bowie plans to keep his memory alive by continuing to tell the story of how he and fellow activists fought for voting rights and equality in the Mississippi Delta.

The progress we have made, it just hasnt been enough, Bowie said. We need to pass the torch, our generation is dying out, we need these younger people to understand its time to continue the progress in the right direction.

vtdavis@express-news.net
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The decision came late at night, when much of Houston was already asleep.

With little warning and no evacuation orders, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began releasing water about midnight Aug. 27 from the struggling Barker and Addicks reservoirs, pushing floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey deeper into several west Houston neighborhoods.

Robert Arthur Haines and Cathy Harling Montgomery, both 71, could not escape. They drowned after their homes near Buffalo Bayou began to fill up with water following the dam releases.

I just want the public to know that the government really screwed up  royally, said Emile Nassar, a flood survivor who is president of the homeowners association at the condominium complex where Montgomery died. Its only when they opened up the dams that the water started coming.

Corps officials have said they released the water to prevent the reservoirs from overflowing amid heavy rains and runoff in the area. Officials with the Harris County Flood Control District said Friday that they did not have data showing how much the releases may have affected flooding along Buffalo Bayou, but gauges recently measured more than 5 inches of rain near the spot where the two spillways converge.

But questions remain about why evacuations were not ordered for the area and why residents werent given a warning to leave before the releases started.

City officials, who could have ordered evacuations, said they were told by the corps that the releases would not cause life-threatening flooding, with only streets expected to be underwater.

Alan Bernstein, a spokesman for Mayor Sylvester Turner, said officials believe that they made the right decision at the time in telling people to shelter in place, as the vast majority of flooding deaths occur when people try to move around in floodwaters.

If you ask people to evacuate into an impenetrable situation, you could be dooming them, Bernstein said.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, who also could have ordered evacuations, said the corps told county officials the releases were the safest option because engineers had no idea where it was going to go if they let the water spill out around the edges of the rapidly filling reservoirs.

Corps officials declined to comment on the deaths but offered condolences.

We at the Corps of Engineers offer our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of those who lost their lives during this tragic event, the agency said in an email. We are not aware of the circumstances of these deaths, and so it would not be appropriate for us to comment on them except to say that all of us regret any loss of life during Harvey.

Life safety is paramount, spokesman Randy Cephus said in the statement.

But angry residents and family said they deserved more notice.

Susan Whites parents, Jim and Judy Poston, had only puddles of water at the curb of their two-story home after the first bands of rains came through in the two days before the releases. By midmorning Aug. 28, the water was waist-high, White said.

They went to bed dry and woke up to, Oh, my gosh, she said.

She arranged for volunteers in a boat to pick up her parents and their elderly neighbors.

There was no evacuation order until many days after the whole street was vacated by volunteers, White said.

Some officials acknowledged that more could be done in the future to alert residents.

I do think we need to have an early warning system for any more releases from the dam, said City Councilman Greg Travis, who represents many of the neighborhoods that were flooded along Buffalo Bayou.

Shouldnt have died

The bodies of Haines, a retired financial planner, and Montgomery, a retiree with multiple sclerosis, were pulled from their still-flooded homes days after the releases began.

Haines had left messages for his son during the night Aug. 27 saying that more than 2 feet of floodwaters had entered his home; he was found in 4 feet of water.

On Thursday, a red X  a sign that someone inside had died  was still visible against the chalky-white brick on the one-story home where Haines settled about a decade ago.

Kirby Haines said he last talked with his father around 3 p.m. Aug. 27, the Sunday after the heaviest rains slammed Houston and sent waters rising in Buffalo Bayou.

Haines said his father mentioned a problem with his cellphone charger and that they agreed to talk later on the home phone. Overnight, however, the elder Haines left two voicemail messages, about a half-hour apart, that his son received the next morning.

The water was rising, he said, and had reached a couple of feet. But Kirby Haines said the messages were informational and that the situation did not appear to be life-threatening.

He tried to reach his father all day Aug. 28 and couldnt get through.

He was supposed to have a caretaker with him, he said. There was no one there to save him.

By Aug. 30, when Robert Haines husband, Kyle Fredricks Haines, tried to return home, he was stopped by floodwaters a mile away. A man with a boat took Fredricks Haines brother to the house, but they couldnt get into the flooded home.

At that point, Fredricks Haines reported Robert Haines missing to the Houston Police Department. After repeated attempts, a police dive team recovered the body Sept. 8. Four feet of water was still inside the home.

The whole house was submerged, and my husband was in the house, said Fredricks Haines, 34. He shouldnt have died that way.

Changing release times

Five miles away at The Pines condominium complex, Montgomery was among hundreds of residents bracing for another deluge that Aug. 27 night.

Her body was found Sept. 7 in her flood-damaged residence, where she lived alone. On Friday, while other units had been cleared, Montgomerys unit remained full of furniture, with a large television in place and black mold coating the drywall.

The first public warning from the corps about the releases came at 2 p.m. Aug. 27, after a night of torrential rains across the Houston area. Capacity at both reservoirs was shrinking rapidly.

These structures continue to perform as they were designed to do, which is to protect against flooding in downtown Houston and the Houston Ship Channel, Col. Lars Zetterstrom, the Galveston District commander for the corps, said at the time.

The corps is responsible for the dams and reservoirs, which are designed to reduce flood risks downstream.

Initially, the corps planned to stagger the controlled releases, with the first set for 2 a.m. Aug. 28 from Addicks and 11 a.m. that day for Barker. Then, in a surprise move about 11 p.m. Aug. 27, the corps announced that the releases would begin from both reservoirs at midnight, hours earlier than expected. The change was prompted by heavier-than-expected rainfall and runoff into the basins, they said.

The releases started relatively small, at 1,600 cubic feet per second from the dams combined, but increased to the expected 8,000 cubic feet per second. The next day, the releases increased even more, to 13,300 cubic feet per second, and were expected to increase further.

Days later, on Sept. 1, Turner issued a voluntary evacuation of the flooded residential areas downstream, followed by a mandatory evacuation order Sept. 2. Those orders  aimed at people trying to remain in their homes  were issued because the city could not guarantee rescues could be conducted safely, Bernstein said.

Corps officials said engineers worked closely with the city, county and Texas Department of Public Safety to provide data regarding the dams and reservoirs to help them make informed decisions for the communities they support.

The corps Friday referred further questions to the Justice Department, which declined to comment.

Nine federal lawsuits and one state suit have been filed in the past few weeks seeking compensation from the government for property lost or damaged by the decision to release water downstream. The federal cases have been brought in a specialized U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington, D.C., which eventually could handle hundreds of so-called takings cases for lost property.

Looking ahead

As cleanup continues across Houston in Harveys aftermath, local officials are looking for ways to improve the response the next time the city endures catastrophic flooding.

Travis, the city councilman, said public officials should develop an emergency system like the Amber Alert to notify residents that releases are imminent. We should have an alert that goes off to warn people, he said.

Both County Judge Emmett and Mayor Turner are pushing for upgraded dams and possibly more than two, which would diffuse the floodwaters downstream.

The city has learned that all options should be considered to expand the capacity of the reservoir system to avoid water releases that are unilaterally scheduled by the (corps), Bernstein said in a statement.

If officials had known of the potential flooding to homes, they could have positioned rescue teams in the area. But shelter-in-place likely still would have been the message from city officials, he said.

Residents, however, said they want a stronger warning next time.

Hank Bussa, 71, a semiretired orthodontist who lives a few houses away from Haines home and a block from the Addicks spillway, noticed water near his front door about 10 p.m. Aug. 27 but said it seemed to be receding. A little after midnight, it began coming inside.

There was water coming in my front door, he said. I turned around and looked across my family room and there was water coming in my back door. There was water coming into the utility room. The water was coming in from all directions. And it came in fast. We had maybe another 30 minutes and we were wading around downstairs trying to pick up chairs and whatever we could.

Bussa said they tried to salvage their belongings but lost his grandparents valuable antique furniture.

We got no warning, he said. I could have saved more stuff if I had had a little time.

He and his wife, Cathy, finally waded out of the house the next day when rescuers arrived by boat.

Houston Chronicle reporters Gabrielle Banks and John D. Harden contributed to this report.
Another good day trip from Lucerne is to Mt. Pilatus, and Swiss Travel Pass offered free "Golden Round Trip" to Mt. Pilatus when we visited. First we took a boat to Alpnachstad, then a cogwheel train to go up the mountain. Coming down involved taking two different gondolas and then a bus back to Lucerne.



1. Lucerne.

2. Museum of Art Lucerne. Too bad we never had time to check it out even though it is free for Swiss Travel Pass holders.

3. Mt. Pilatus (7000 ft.).

4. Cogwheel train station. This is the steepest rack railway in the world, with a maximum gradient of 48% and an average gradient of 35%.

5. Gondola station on Mt. Pilatus.

6. A gondola was coming up.

7. From Mt. Pilatus.

8. From Mt. Pilatus.

9. Hike to Tomlishorn.

10. More cogwheel trains coming up.

11. Hike to Tomlishorn.

12. Tomlishorn.

13. Back to Lucerne.

14. Lucerne.

15. Lucerne. Most shops are closed on Sundays so the place looked so empty.

16. Lucerne.

(To be continued)
Only subscribers with PAID Print or E-Edition subscriptions enter here to gain access. If you are not a Current Paid subscriber do not go through this portal. Please return to the subscription page to purchase one of our offers. Thank you!
Funeral homes often submit obituaries to the newspaper as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we are happy to accept obituaries from family members. You may use the form linked below, or you may email Jeanne Cobert at jcobert@fauquier.com or call her at 540-270-4931.

Go to form
A bill approved in both houses of the California legislature would allow certified teachers six paid weeks of maternity leave.

Assembly Bill 568 would require school districts, charter schools, and community colleges to pay for a minimum of six weeks leave for pregnancy, childbirth, or miscarriage.

Teachers with at least 12 months on the job and 1,250 hours logged are eligible to take 12 weeks of maternity leave under the federal Family Leave Act (FMLA). But, unlike the California measure, the federal leave is unpaid unless teachers have enough sick days banked to cover the absence.

More often than not, teachers use paid vacation or sick days to cover time off during pregnancy. California teachers get 10 sick days each year that can be banked. Once a teacher uses up her sick days, she can qualify for differential leave paythe amount of her salary remaining after the district has paid a substitute to fill the position. Differential leave pay is available for up to five months.

But the California Federation of Teachers argued in a statement that teachers shouldnt have to give up sick days, nor should they have to schedule pregnancies according to the school schedule or be forced to manage with a reduced paycheck for a period of time.

Its patently unfair to make women use sick leave and vacation time for pregnancy-related, medically necessary absences, or to recuperate after childbirth, said Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, the bills author, in a statement. We know these kinds of discriminatory leave policies are costing us good teachers because women dont want to be penalized for having a baby, and that needs to change.

Schools responsible for footing the maternity leave bill are not happy. Theyve appealed to Governor Jerry Brown, who has the power to veto the legislation. According to CBS Sacramento , a coalition of school districts, charter schools, and community colleges have sent the governor a letter arguing that the added expense would compete with the costs of educational programs and student services within finite budgets.

The California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) argued that the state should help pay for maternity leaves. Without a direct state funding source, this adds to the school districts financial burden as a new liability to be absorbed within an already constrained fiscal environment, a statement from CASBO read.

Most of the 193 countries in the United Nations have a national paid parental leave law, according to the World Policy Analysis Center at the University of California Los Angeles School of Public Health. The United States is one of a few UN countries that does not.

All this means that in the United States, new moms and dads have to get back to work sooner than theyd like because they simply cant afford unpaid time off. In this Early Years blog , Lillian Mongeau takes on our less than stellar parental leave policy, with a little help from comedian John Oliver.

Californias paid parental leave bill is now in the governors hands. He has until next month to sign it.

Photo: Getty

See also:
Job Title: Director, Anti-Bribery/Corruption Compliance Officer

Employer: Merck & Co., Inc

Location: Gwynedd, Pennsylvania USA

Description: The Director, ABC Compliance Officer, will be responsible for supporting high priority activities of the Companys compliance program as they relate to the Prevention of Bribery and Corruption outside of the United States (ABC Program). The ABC Compliance Officer is responsible for maintenance and oversight of the Companys ABC Program, and serves as the lead ABC program and process advisor on issues relating to the Companys ABC policies, trainings and due diligence protocols. . . . . Continue Reading
Sebastian Stan realised 'I, Tonya' was a special movie during his time on set.

Sebastian Stan

The 35-year-old actor stars as Jeff Gillooly, the ex-husband of controversial American figure skater Tonya Harding, in the new Craig Gillespie-directed film, and Sebastian feels the hard work and patience of the cast has paid off with the positive feedback they've already received.

Asked when he realised he was making a special movie, Sebastian shared: "It was definitely on set. I mean, the movie kind of came together there and we knew because the days were really long ... 31 days to shoot it.

"And there were all these skating sequences and it was a lot to get done."

But Sebastian said that because the cast - which also included Australian star Margot Robbie - were aware of how good the film could become, they never lost patience with the director.

Speaking to Collider, Sebastian explained: "We never got frustrated because everyone was operating from a point of view of what was the creatively most important decision that we could make on that day.

"For the film, for the story ... it's what shot really needed to be in the movie."

Meanwhile, Margot recently admitted she didn't know 'I, Tonya' was based on a real-life story.

The blonde beauty plays Tonya - who pleaded guilty to hindering the prosecution following an attack on her rival Nancy Kerrigan in 1994 - in the film, but she was initially unaware of the dramatic storyline.

Margot confessed: "I didn't realise it was a true story.

"I thought it was complete fiction, just a wacky story. And then I found out it was all true and I was even more fascinated."
Meghan Markle has reportedly asked the Duchess of Cambridge to be her maid of honour.

Meghan Markle

The 'Suits' actress is currently dating Prince Harry and though the couple have not got engaged just yet, it is speculated that a proposal is in the pipeline for the pair.

Although Meghan has not yet been asked by Harry to have her hand in marriage, the 36-year-old actress has already started to put plans in place for her big day, including inviting Duchess Catherine - who is married to Harry's older brother Prince William - to be her chief bridesmaid, Women's Day has reported.

It has been rumoured the brunette beauty sent her soon-to-be sister-in-law a rose gold diamond bracelet, which is believed to have cost Meghan over 1,000, alongside a note asking Catherine - who has four-year-old son Prince George and two-year-old daughter Princess Charlotte - to take on the important role.

This news comes shortly after the 33-year-old royal introduced his girlfriend to his grandmother Queen Elizabeth earlier this month when they returned from their three-week trip in Botswana and Zambia on September 2.

And it is believed the royal meeting went "well".

Speaking previously about the encounter, a source said: "Harry decided to take Meghan to visit as he hadn't been up yet all summer.

"He wanted to introduce Meghan to the queen. It went well. It'll no doubt be the first of many encounters. The entire weekend was a success. He was able to introduce someone he loves to someone he cares for deeply."

And alongside the growing speculation as to when Harry will pop the question is where the marital ceremony will take place, as it is believed the couple could tie the knot at Westminster Abbey even though Meghan was previously married to Trevor Engelson from 2011 until 2013.

Speaking previously the representative for Westminster Abbey said: "The Abbey follows the General Synod Ruling of 2002. Since then it has been possible for divorced people to be married in the Church of England."
Marty McKenna has claimed he's been "sacked" from 'Geordie Shore'.

Marty McKenna

The 23-year-old reality TV star - who has appeared on the boozy series since last year - has discovered he's been dropped by the programme following his suspension earlier this year, but he's fuming because he's found out through the grape vine rather than bosses telling him to his face that they've decided to axe him permanently.

Taking to his Twitter account last night (17.09.17), Marty said: "So I won't be going back to @mtvgeordieshore as I've been sacked according to a few people. F***** in thing is a liftin beg from @mtvex."

He later added: "Yeah mate funny how everyone else know before f****** me. (sic)"

The hunk was removed from the infamous house in May after he and his co-star Scotty T infuriated bosses with their erratic behaviour and, as a consequence, they were banned from joining the rest of the cast in Italy for the summer special.

A source said at the time: "Marty is just as bad if not worse than Scotty. He parties hard and it can get too much at times.

"He didn't fly out to Italy with the cast as producers had already made their minds up and knew he wouldn't be continuing for the rest of the series."

And it's believed Scotty may find himself in a similar situation as Marty as he was suspended twice within six months due to his boozy behaviour this year.

A source said: "He was suspended last series for the very same thing and was told to go and sort himself out, which he did. But he is back at it again and they have had enough. They have banned him from filming the second half of the series."

The news that the lothario has again been kicked off the show came just weeks after fans got excited when they heard he had been allowed to return to the house.
Britney Spears and Kevin Federline would have celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary today so we take a look back at their time as man and wife.

Britney Spears and Kevin Federline (Credit: Famous)

1. The couple got engaged only three months after dating in July 2004.

2. Background dancer Federline had only recently broken up from actress Shar Jackson so their relationship was heavily reported by the press.

3. Their nondenominational ceremony took place in September of the same year in Studio City, California.

4. The marriage as not legalised until October 6th as the pre-nuptial agreement was not complete at the point in which they said their vows.

5. The pair have to sons together, Sean Preston Federline, who was born on 14th September 2005 and Jayden James Federline who was born on September 12th 2006.

6. The couple starred in the reality TV series Britney and Kevin: Chaotic, which showcased all of their home videos.

7. Spears wrote a 'letter of truth' to her fans which explained to them that she needed to take a break from her career to concentrate on her marriage to Federline and her children, reportedly much to the displeasure of her bosses at Jive Records.

8. Spears filed for divorce only two months after in November citing 'irreconcilable differences'.

Source: IMDB and Wikipedia.

by Lucy Moore for www.femalefirst.co.uk

find me on and follow me on
No Warrant Needed to Search Probationer's Cell Phone

The Fourth District Court of Appeal for the state of California has issued a ruling that, at first blush, appears to disregard the recent ruling of the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on a nearly identical issue. At issue in the People v. Sandee case is whether a warrantless search of a probationer's cell phone is valid under the Fourth Amendment waiver that probationers consent to as a prerequisite to being granted probation.

The California appellate court explained that under California law, and precedent set by the California supreme court, probationers should expect that their Fourth Amendment waiver will allow a cell phone to be searched attendant to a probation search.

What's This Case About?

In short, this case involves a probationer who had their cell phone searched incident to a search while on probation. As a result of the search, evidence of a drug crime was discovered (the sale of a controlled substance). After her motion to suppress that evidence was denied, she pled guilty to the sale and possession charges.

After sentencing (where she only received three years of felony probation), the appeal was filed asserting that the motion to suppress should have been granted. Sandee based her argument on Ninth Circuit precedent, but the state appellate court found her case worthy of distinction.

Ninth Circuit Not Enough

The state appeals court further explained that despite the Ninth Circuit case, U.S. v. Lara (which petitioner relied upon), relying upon U.S. Supreme Court precedent, the wrong test was used by the Ninth Circuit. The federal court applied a balancing test that accounted for the totality of the circumstances when assessing whether a warrantless search of a probationer violates the Fourth Amendment. Unfortunately for Sandee, the Fourth District opined that until SCOTUS decides this exact issue resolving California law, it will rely on the objectively reasonable test laid out by the state's highest court.

Basically, for a warrantless search of a probationer to be a violation of the Fourth Amendment in California, it must be shown that the purpose of the search was improper. Essentially, California courts take the position that unless the Fourth Amendment waiver specifically excludes cell phones or devices, that they will be included within a probationer's waiver of rights, as that is what a reasonable person would expect based on the wording of the probationer's Fourth Amendment waiver of rights.

Related Resources:
Westminster University's Harrow campus in the United Kingdom has claimed to have created the world's first dedicated archive of men's fashion open to public. Created by Andrew Groves, the archive contains more than 1,000 garments, including designs by Burberry and British couturier Alexander McQueen and rare military clothing, some of World War-I vintage.It shows the impact military styles have had on menswear designs, says Groves, who is the director of a new course in menswear introduced in the university. Pieces range from 1900 to the present day and include contemporary designers.

Westminster University's Harrow campus in the United Kingdom has claimed to have created the world's first dedicated archive of men's fashion open to public. Created by Andrew Groves, the archive contains more than 1,000 garments, including designs by Burberry and British couturier Alexander McQueen and rare military clothing, some of World War-I vintage.#

The archive, created last year, has key pieces from French designer Jean Paul Gaultier, British brands Barbour and Berghaus, US brand Levi's and Japanese fashion label Comme des Garcons, according to British media reports.The aim was to offer the new generation of menswear designers a glimpse into the historical context of the garments they are reinterpreting, added Groves. (DS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Turkey's ready-to-wear industry has around 10 per cent share in the German apparel sales volume, the Aegean Exporters' Association (EIB) claimed recently at the Munich Apparel Source Fair. Fourteen Turkish firms under EIB, founded in 1939 with 7,500 member firms now covering 12 industrial sectors, including textiles and apparel, participated in the fair.Pointing out that Turkey ranks third in readymade garment exports after China and Bangladesh, Aegean Association of Readymade and Apparel Exporters (EHKIB) chair Emre Kizilgunesler said the country aims for the top rank by focusing more on the German market, a Turkish newspaper reported. He hoped that the recent political tensions between the two countries would not affect the export figures.

Turkey's ready-to-wear industry has around 10 per cent share in the German apparel sales volume, the Aegean Exporters' Association (EIB) claimed recently at the Munich Apparel Source Fair. Fourteen Turkish firms under EIB, founded in 1939 with 7,500 member firms now covering 12 industrial sectors, including textiles and apparel, participated in the fair.#

Turkey has the largest thread, home textile and fabric production capacity in Europe, the world's third-largest supplier of socks, ranked sixth in woven fabric, and is the largest producer of woven carpets, EHKIB Promotion Committee chair Elvan Unluturk told the fair delegates.Apparel exports to Germany during the first eight months of the year registered a 7 per cent rise and reached $9.6 billion. During the same period, Turkey's ready-to-wear industry saw a 1 percent increase in exports as sales hit $2.1 billion. More than 60,000 Turkish garment and textile companies employ more than a million.The Munich Apparel Source Fair stands for a focused range of apparel and accessories manufacturing services offered by established sourcing partners presenting their production methods in Munich. (DS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
ECOC The data center and telecom application space has seen rapid deployment of small form factor 100G modules in 2017. The migration from 10G and 40G to 100G data rates will accelerate considerably until 2020 with an estimated number of more than fifteen million 100G ports expected to be deployed. Source Photonics has anticipated this rapid expansion in deployment of 100G modules and has positioned itself as a market leader through early research and development efforts and investments in operational infrastructure in 100G small form factor long reach single mode devices. After sampling the first generation of 100GBASE-LR4 in QSFP28 form factor in 2014, Source Photonics went into full scale production in 2015. Continuous investment into the InP fab as well as in transceiver production infrastructure allows Source Photonics to react to the increasing volume needs as well as to the cost requirements of the customers. Capacity expansion will support greater than half a million modules annually by early 2018.

Building on the highly successful technical 100G LR4 platform as well as the best in class production operations for complex small form factor modules, Source Photonics is expanding its product portfolio to address market needs for 100G QSFP28 modules by adding support for modules with OTU4 data rate and extended temperature operation up to 85C for 100GBASE-LR4 and 100G CWDM4 (2 km) and 4WDM-10 (10 km) modules. In addition, longer reach 100G applications of up to 40km are supported by a 100G 4WDM-40 MSA compliant module. These complementary transceivers will be available for sampling in Q4 2017 and will move to full production in Q1 2018.

Further R&D investments are funding multiple projects for 28Gbd and 53Gbd PAM4 based next generation technology for 100G and 400G products to be released to production in 2018.

Source Photonics will exhibit its full portfolio of 100G products and will demonstrate its next generation technologies from its broadening portfolio of higher speed products at ECOC in Gothenburg, Sweden, booth number 162, from September 18-20, 2017. For further information or to schedule an informational session, please visit our website at www.sourcephotonics.com.

About Source Photonics

Source Photonics is a leading global provider of innovative and reliable technology that enables communications and data connectivity, in next-generation mobile and fixed-line access networks, in metro networks, and in data centers. We invent next-generation solutions to provide data centers with low power, high data rate technology to meet the demands of the rapidly growing cloud data industry. Source Photonics is headquartered in West Hills, California, USA with manufacturing facilities, R&D, and Sales offices worldwide.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170917005062/en/

Contacts:

Source Photonics

Jasmin Basal, 818-885-4202

Marketing Communications Manager

jasmin.basa@sourcephotonics.com
Quantzig, a global analytics solutions provider, has announced the completion of their new salesforce effectiveness study on the finance industry. The client, a leading financial services provider, approached Quantzig to help them improve sales volume and increase profitability. The client wanted to leverage Quantzig's salesforce effectiveness study to increase their ROI and enhance market shares in the financial sector.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170917005038/en/

Leveraging Salesforce Effectiveness Study to Improve Sales for a BFSI Client. (Graphic: Business Wire)

According to the salesforce effectiveness experts at Quantzig, "In today's dynamic financial market environment, the sales force plays an important role in improving market shares and increasing profitability. Organizations are forced to implement effective sales force strategies to improve operational efficiency and combat competition."

The introduction of digital technology in the financial sector has changed the market landscape for financial service providers. The players in the BFSI market have new market opportunities that they can explore in the long run. Companies are relying on salesforce effectiveness solutions to gain customer insights and enhance their sales performance.

The solution offered by Quantzig helped the financial industry client devise a customer-centric approach to target potential customers. Based on the insights offered, the client was able to enhance cross-selling and up-selling opportunities and bolster acquisition rates and revenues.

Request a free demo to see how Quantzig's solutions can help you.

This salesforce effectiveness solution provided benefits that helped the client to:

Retain profitable customers

Gain customer insights and position their products effectively in the market

To read more, request a free proposal

This salesforce effectiveness solution offered predictive insights on:

Driving sales, attracting new customers, and creating accountability

Delivering value-added customer service

To read more, request a free proposal

View the salesforce effectiveness study here:

https://www.quantzig.com/content/financial-services-salesforce-effectiveness

About Quantzig

Quantzig is a global analytics and advisory firm with offices in the US, UK, Canada, China, and India. For more than 12 years, we have assisted our clients across the globe with end-to-end data modeling capabilities to leverage analytics for prudent decision making. Today, our firm consists of 120+ clients, including 45 Fortune 500 companies. For more information on all of Quantzig's services and the solutions they have provided to Fortune 500 clients across all industries, please contact us.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170917005038/en/

Contacts:

Quantzig

Anirban Choudhury

Marketing Consultant

hello@quantzig.com

https://www.quantzig.com/contact-us
LUXEMBOURG, September 20, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Millicom International Cellular S.A. ("Millicom") today announces that it has successfully issued a $500 million bond at par with a fixed coupon of 5.125%. The bond will be listed in Luxembourg.

Millicom has applied the proceeds from the bond to purchase all of the following debt securities (the "Notes") in a tender offer that was described in Millicom's 11 September and 18 September press releases (the "Tender Offer").

Title



CUSIP



ISINs



Principal Amount Tendered



Principal Amount Purchased



Principal Amount Remaining 6.625% Senior Notes due 2021



600814AL1



US600814AL16; XS0980363344



$185,922,000



$185,922,000



$$472,554,000

Millicom intends to use the remaining bond proceeds, plus cash on hand, to redeem all Notes that remain outstanding pursuant to the Conditional Redemption Notice that was delivered on 11 September 2017, and confirms that the condition described in the Conditional Redemption Notice has now been satisfied.

The security identification codes for the new bond are: CUSIP numbers 600814AN7 and L6388GAB6, ISIN codes US600814AN71 and USL6388GAB60, and Common Codes 168724179 and 168724438.

The Tender Offer was made on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Tender Offer Memorandum dated 11 September 2017 (capitalized terms used in this announcement without definition have the meanings specified in the Tender Offer Memorandum).

This press release is qualified in its entirety by the Tender Offer Memorandum. This press release will also be posted on the website of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

This press release is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase nor the solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities described herein nor shall there be any offer or sale of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Tender Offer was made pursuant to the Tender Offer Memorandum, which sets forth the complete terms and conditions of the Tender Offer. Capitalized terms used in this announcement and not otherwise defined have the meanings ascribed to them in the Tender Offer Memorandum.

Certain statements in this press release, including those describing the completion of the Redemption, constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent only Millicom's belief regarding future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside Millicom's control. It is possible that actual results will differ, possibly materially, from the anticipated results indicated in these statements.

For more information please contact:

Press:

Vivian Kobeh, Corporate Communications Director

Tel: +1-305-476-7352 / +1-305-302-2858 / press@millicom.com

Investors:

Michel Morin, +352-277-59094

Mauricio Pinzon, Tel: +44-20-3249-2460 / investors@millicom.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

http://news.cision.com/millicom-international-cellular/r/millicom-issues-10-year-corporate-bond--completes-tender-offer-and-satisfies-redemption-condition,c2351124

The following files are available for download:
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The National Association of Home Builders' report on homebuilder confidence in March is due at 10:00 am ET Thursday. The housing market index is expected to edge down to 71 in March from 72 in February. Ahead of these reports, the greenback traded mixed against its major rivals. While the greenback eased against the pound, it rose against the rest of major rivals. The greenback was worth 1.2330 against the euro, 105.98 against the yen, 0.9475 against the franc and 1.3961 against the pound as of 9:55 am ET. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY

A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE

Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the "Code")

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Identity of the person whose positions/dealings are being disclosed: Magnetar Capital Partners LP (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):

The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient N/A (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:

Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree Tesco Plc (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: January 23, 2018 (f) Has the discloser previously disclosed, or are they today disclosing, under the Code in respect of any other party to this offer? Yes - Booker Group Plc

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security: 5p ordinary

ISIN: GB0008847096 Interests Short positions Number % Number % (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: (2) Derivatives (other than options): 30,721,808 0.37% (3) Options and agreements to purchase/sell:

TOTAL: 30,721,808 0.37%

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open derivative or option positions, or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors' and other executive options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists: Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit

(b) Derivatives transactions (other than options)

Class of relevant security Product description

e.g. CFD Nature of dealing

e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit Ordinary shares Swap Increasing a short position 102,424 2.0977

(c) Options transactions in respect of existing securities

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type

e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercising

Class of relevant security Product description

e.g. call option Number of securities Exercise price per unit

(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security Nature of dealing

e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:

If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none"

None

(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:

(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or

(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:

If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none" None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? No

Date of disclosure: January 24, 2018 Contact name: Audrey Newsom Telephone number: 847-905-4693

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service and must also be emailed to the Takeover Panel at monitoring@disclosure.org.uk. The Panel's Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code's dealing disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel's website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.
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.
Google Sued for 'Systemic Discrimination' Against Female Employees

It seems like just yesterday Google was parting ways with an engineer who felt the need to explain to colleagues, in excruciatingly sophomoric detail, why the "distribution of preferences and abilities of men and women differ in part due to biological causes and ... these differences may explain why we don't see equal representation of women in tech and leadership."

But that was over a month ago, just four months after the U.S. Department of Labor accused the company of an "extreme" gender pay gap. All of which is a precursor to yet another lawsuit filed yesterday in San Francisco, claiming Google "discriminated and continues to discriminate against its female employees by paying female employees less than male employees with similar skills, experience, and duties."

Front and Back

Ex-Googlers Kelly Ellis, Holly Pease, and Kelli Wisuri, a software engineer, senior manager, sales communication specialist respectively, claim the company paid them less than male colleagues, assigning the women to lower compensation levels and job ladders than "similarly qualified men performing substantially similar work." Their lawsuit was filed as a class action complaint, seeking to represent all women at Google.

Ellis, in particular, says she was "occupationally-segregated" into a frontend software engineering role because of a "false and gendered perception at Google that backend software engineering is more technically rigorous, and therefore more prestigious." Ellis's lawsuit claims "Google pays backend engineers more ... and fasttracks them for promotion," and that "almost all back-end software engineers were men." Ellis resigned after four years at the company "because of the sexist culture."

Back and Forth

Google, for its part, denied the allegations. Spokesperson Gina Scigliano told Forbes:

"Job levels and promotions are determined through rigorous hiring and promotion committees, and must pass multiple levels of review, including checks to make sure there is no gender bias in these decisions. And we have extensive systems in place to ensure that we pay fairly. But on all these topics, if we ever see individual discrepancies or problems, we work to fix them, because Google has always sought to be a great employer, for every one of our employees."

The lawsuit claims Google violated California labor laws, and is asking for unpaid wages, damages, and prejudgment interest.

Related Resources:
VALCOURT, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 09/18/17 -- BRP Inc. (TSX: DOO) will host a conference call from its semi-annual dealer meeting in Dallas, Texas on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 7:30 a.m. (ET). Jose Boisjoli, president and chief executive officer, Sebastien Martel, chief financial officer, Sandy Scullion, senior vice-president and general manager, Global Retail and Services and Josee Perreault, senior vice-president, Spyder, will discuss BRP's new 2018 Can-Am and Sea-Doo line-ups and address questions from analysts in the room.

Interested participants may access the conference call on a listen-only basis.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------- DATE AND TIME Thursday, September 21 at 7:30 a.m. ET --------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 866 528-2256 (North America) AUDIO 216 706-7052 (International) Access Code: 1115402 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

SLIDE PRESENTATION Available online here by 6 a.m. on September 21

About BRP

BRP (TSX: DOO) is a global leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems. Its portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am off-road and Spyder vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. BRP supports its line of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business. With annual sales of CA$4.2 billion from over 100 countries, the Company employs approximately 8,700 people worldwide.

www.brp.com

@BRPnews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am, Spyder and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Contacts:

For media enquiries:

Valerie Bridger

Sr Advisor, Corporate Communications

450.532.5107

valerie.bridger@brp.com



For investor relations:

Philippe Deschenes

Financial Analyst

450.532.6462

philippe.deschenes@brp.com






WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Hurricane Irma has left a path of destruction in its wake and resulted in a major headache for insurance companies as they grapple with a severe scarcity of insurance adjusters in Florida.



Many of Florida's insurance adjusters are currently working on claims made as a result of Hurricane Harvey, which hit Texas just two weeks before Irma hit Florida.



The biggest worry for insurance companies is that damage to buildings from the impact of Irma could worsen due to the delays in handling claims. In addition, angry homeowners could resort to litigation due to the delays.



Florida's home-insurance market relies heavily on small and mid-size insurers after brand-name national insurers scaled back their presence in the state in order to reduce their exposure to hurricanes.



In addition, many insurance adjusters have left the industry during the decade after 2005, when no hurricane made landfall in Florida.



The small insurers in Florida do not have their own adjusters and instead, depend on independent adjusters to handle insurance claims. The demand for independent catastrophe claims adjusters in Florida has increased as a result.



Damages from Irma are expected to be large enough to put the hurricane in the league of the most expensive hurricanes ever in the U.S. Last week, catastrophe-risk modeling from Karen Clark & Co. estimated Irma-related damage in the U.S. at $18 billion.



Insurance companies are now luring independent insurance adjusters to Florida by promising higher fees. State-run insurer Citizens Property Insurance Corp., which relies on independent adjusters for claims related to Irma, has increased compensation for insurance adjusters.



In early September, Citizen Property Insurance's governing board suspended normal contracting procedures so that it could pay more to hire additional claims adjusters.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
Company announcement No 46/2017- 18 September 2017





The Board of Directors of Royal Unibrew A/S and President & CEO Jesper B. Jrgensen have mutually agreed that Jesper B. Jrgensen resigns from his position with immediate effect. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kare Schultz, states the following with regard to the resignation:



"Royal Unibrew' business performance has continued to be solid since Jesper B. Jrgensen took over on 1 April 2017. Whilst Royal Unibrew continues to deliver upon our unchanged, ambitious, strategic objectives and commitments, the management style of Jesper B. Jrgensen has proven not to match our Royal Unibrew culture."



COO, Johannes F.C.M. Savonije (Hans Savonije) will take over the position as President & CEO of Royal Unibrew with effect as of today. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kare Schultz, comments the following with regard to the decision to appoint Hans Savonije as President & CEO:



"The board is convinced that Hans Savonije is the right leader of Royal Unibrew. He has a profound knowledge of Royal Unibrew' business through his current position as COO and member of the Executive Management of Royal Unibrew and is in charge of Royal Unibrew's operations since 1 October 2008. Hans Savonije brings a distinguished career and more than 35-years of experience in leading positions within, among others Unilever and The Coca Cola Company and has a strong and extensive experience in the beverage industry.



Furthermore, Lars Jensen, the current CFO and member of the Executive Management of the company since 2011, will continue in his position and add selected commercial and business development responsibilities to his portfolio in addition to his role as CFO. Also Lars Jensen has a profound insight in the business of Royal Unibrew built over his last 20 years in the company in various, key management functions.



Hans Savonije and Lars Jensen will form the Executive Management team of Royal Unibrew going forward and will thereby ensure continuity of the strategy and execution of the business operations based on their strong collaboration within the Executive Management over the past 6 years."



"I look forward to continuing executing our ambitious strategic plans together with Lars Jensen and Royal Unibrew's talented and committed colleagues", says Hans Savonije.



On a separate note, due to taking his new position as President & CEO of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. based in Israel, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kare Schultz, has decided to retire from the Board of Directors of Royal Unibrew with effect as of 1 January 2018. Consequently, the Board of Directors has decided to appoint the current Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors, Walther Thygesen, as Chairman of the Board of Directors and current member of the Board of Directors, Jais Valeur, as Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors. The changes to the Board of Directors will be effective as per 1 January 2018.



"Both Walther Thygesen and Jais Valeur have an extensive experience and knowledge of the company's business as they have served as members of the Board of Directors of the company. Walther Thygesen has served as deputy Chairman since 2011 while Jais Valeur has served as a board member since 2013, and has held commercial leadership positions in Royal Unibrew in the past. These appointments made by the Board of Directors focus on ensuring the continuity of the Board of Directors and the business", udtaler Kare Schultz



Please address any questions to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kare Schultz by phone +45 22 20 80 17



Kare Schultz, Chairman, Royal Unibrew A/S



Attachment:

https://cns.omxgroup.com/cds/DisclosureAttachmentServlet?messageAttachmentId=645702

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 09/18/17 -- Vancouver's finance and technology industries will meet at the Extraordinary Future Conference on September 20, 2017 at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

25 Canadian technology companies will showcase products and present their opportunities to the Vancouver investment community. The show will feature a trade show market place with live demos including a virtual reality village, battery technology solutions, blockchain applications and more, two stages streaming keynote talks and panel discussions and a private meeting concierge for investors and companies to meet one on one.

The VR Village will showcase 5 of Vancouver's most disruptive virtual and augmented reality companies, and is presented by the Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Association.

A two hour blockchain feature will be headlined by Alex Tapscott - Canada's most recognized authority on Blockchain technology. Tapscott recently closed a $20 Million fund to invest in blockchain focused businesses.

"We are bridging the gap between Vancouver's technology and finance communities. There is an amazing amount of talent and innovation happening in Vancouver and investors are taking notice. We are showcasing success stories, up and comers, and accelerating the growth of Vancouver's innovation sector." - Jay Martin, CEO, Cambridge House

One such success story is Hamed Shahbazi; who sits at the apex of Canadian technology and entrepreneurship. Shahbazi started TIO Networks while he was in college and spent the next 20 years building the multinational payment processing company that provides convenience and access to the underbanked and underserved.

To cap off a highlight reel of growth, share performance, and acquisitions, TIO was acquired by Pay Pal earlier this year for $304 million CAD. Shahbazi will stay on as GM of PayPal Canada Bill Pay Service.

Hamed Shahbazi will discuss his journey and future in a fireside chat on the Extraordinary Future Conference main stage.

Extraordinary Future is produced by Cambridge House International Inc., Canada's undisputed leader in technology and mining investment conferences.

To learn more about the Extraordinary Future conference, please visit ExtraordinaryFuture.com or call 604-687-4151.

Contacts:

Media inquiries:

Lbrodie@cambridgehouse.com



Speaking Inquiries:

Danielle@cambridgehouse.com




Regulatory News:

Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (LN:PSH) (NA:PSH) today announces that it has purchased, through PSH's agent, Jefferies International Limited ("Jefferies"), the following number of PSH's ordinary shares of no par value (ISIN Code: GG00BPFJTF46) (the "Shares"):

Date of purchase: 18 September 2017 Number of Shares purchased: 28,386 Shares Highest price paid per Share: 981 pence 13.25 USD Lowest price paid per Share: 967 pence 13.06 USD Average price paid per Share: 973.79 pence 13.16 USD

PSH intends to cancel these Shares. The net asset value per Share related to this Share buyback is USD 16.82 GBP 12.66 which was calculated as of 12 September 2017. After giving effect to the above Share buyback, PSH has outstanding 237,832,512 Shares. The prices per share in USD were calculated by Jefferies.

The number of PSH Management Shares and the 1 special voting share (held by PS Holdings Independent Voting Company Limited) has not been affected.

About Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd.:

Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (LN:PSH) (NA:PSH) is an investment holding company structured as a closed-ended fund that makes concentrated investments principally in North American companies.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918006305/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Maitland

James Devas, +44 20 7379 5151

Media-pershingsquareholdings1@maitland.co.uk
CARLSBAD, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2017 / Patriot Scientific Corporation (OTC PINK: PTSC) today announced the law firm of Bunsow De Mory LLP has been retained as successor counsel in representation of Patriot Scientific Corporation, Phoenix Digital Solutions LLC, and Technology Properties Limited LLC as plaintiffs before the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in patent litigation against defendants Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., LG Electronics, Nintendo Co. Ltd., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., and ZTE Corporation.

About Patriot Scientific Corporation

Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, Patriot Scientific Corporation is the co-owner of the Moore Microprocessor Patent Portfolio. For more information on PTSC, visit www.ptsc.com.

About the MMP Portfolio

The MMP Portfolio includes US patents as well as their European and Japanese counterparts, which cover techniques that enable higher performance and lower cost designs essential to consumer and commercial digital systems ranging from PCs, cell phones, and portable music players to communications infrastructure, medical equipment, and automobiles.

About Bunsow De Mory LLP

Bunsow De Mory LLP represents clients in all aspects of intellectual property litigation, including patent litigation, copyright enforcement, trademark protection, and trade secret disputes.

Contact:

Patriot Scientific Corp

760-795-8517

SOURCE: Patriot Scientific Corporation
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 09/18/17 -- Brookfield Global Infrastructure Securities Income Fund (the "Fund") (TSX: BGI.UN) today announced a distribution of C$0.15 per unit for the quarter ending September 30, 2017. The distribution will be paid on or before October 16, 2017 to holders of record on September 29, 2017.

Eligible holders of the Units ("Unitholders") may participate in the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment Plan ("DRIP"), where they may elect to automatically reinvest their dividends in additional Units. Details of the DRIP are available on the Fund's website at www.brookfield.com. Unitholders who wish to participate in the DRIP should contact their investment advisor for further information and to enroll.

Brookfield Investment Management (Canada) Inc. and Brookfield Investment Management Inc. (together, the "Firm") are the manager and investment manager of the Fund, respectively.

Brookfield Investment Management Inc. (the "Firm") is an SEC-registered investment adviser and represents the Public Securities platform of Brookfield Asset Management. The Firm provides global listed real assets strategies including real estate equities, infrastructure equities, real asset debt and diversified real assets. With more than $15 billion of assets under management as of June 30, 2017, the Firm manages separate accounts, registered funds and opportunistic strategies for institutional and individual clients, including financial institutions, public and private pension plans, insurance companies, endowments and foundations, sovereign wealth funds and high net worth investors. The Firm is a wholly owned subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management, a leading global alternative asset manager with approximately $250 billion of assets under management as of June 30, 2017. For more information, go to www.brookfield.com.

The Fund uses its website as a channel of distribution of material company information. Financial and other material information regarding the Fund is routinely posted on and accessible at www.brookfield.com.

Contacts:

Investor Relations

(855) 777-8001

funds@brookfield.com

www.brookfield.com




Sao Paulo, Brazil-based payment platform Vindi raised U$1.8M (R$ 5.8m) in funding.

Criatec2 fund, managed by Bozano Investimentos, made the investment.

The company intends to use the funds to move to new headquarters to accommodate around 80 employees, to make investments in technology, growth, and acquisitions of other fintechs.

Founded in 2013 by Rodrigo Dantas, CEO, Vindi provides is the leader in payment solutions in signatures, plans and monthly payments in Brazil targeting the retail and service sector. The companys payment processing platform features more than hundreds of different integrations with banks, credit card acquirers and financial solutions.

Clients include Multiplus, Editora Abril, Thomson Reuters, VivaReal, Movile and some of the fastest growing startups in the country.

In four years, Vindi has has accumulated acquired Aceita Facil (2016) and Smartbill.

SP

Tel.: (Vindi) +55 (11) 5904-7380

https://www.vindi.com.br | https://www.smartbill.com.br
Ocean Aero, a San Diego, CA-based developer of an unmanned maritime vehicle, received a strategic investment from Lockheed Martin Ventures.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

Lockheed Martin Ventures joined marine instrumentation leader Teledyne Technologies, which has invested in the company since 2014.

The deal will create opportunities for both companies to grow their maritime capabilities, with a focus on multi-domain Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR).

Led by Eric Patten, CEO and president, Ocean Aero is a business focused on developing autonomous, highly persistent, energy scavenging, solar/wind powered vessels. The Submaran, a new class of unmanned underwater, surface vessel, combines surface and subsurface performance in a self-propelling body, capable of long missions in extreme conditions.

The latest model, the Submaran S10, has the power and payload for a wide range of sensor systems.

FinSMEs

18/09/2017
New Delhi: Former prime minister Manmohan Singh today again warned of demonetisation and "hasty" implementation of GST adversely impacting GDP growth.

Singh, who had previously cautioned against note ban shaving off 2 percent of GDP, said demonetisation of 86 percent of the currency in circulation and the hasty

implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have impacted informal and small scale sectors, which account of about 40 percent of the $2.5-trillion economy.

"Both demonetisation and the GST have had some impact (on GDP growth)," he said. "Both would affect the informal sector, the small scale sector... the sectors today are responsible for 40 percent of GDP."

Ninety percent of India's employment is in the informal sector, he told CNBC-TV 18.

"And the withdrawal of 86 percent of currency plus also GST, because it has been put on practice in haste, there are lots of glitches which are now coming out. These are bound to affect the GDP growth adversely," he remarked.

On 25 November last year, some two weeks after old 500 and 1,000 rupee notes were junked, Singh had in his Parliament speech termed demonetisation a "monumental mismanagement", "organised loot" and "legalised plunder" which would cause GDP growth to fall by 2 percent.

GDP growth in the first quarter of current fiscal slumped to a three-year low of 5.7 percent, down from 7.9 percent in April-June quarter of 2016. In January-March quarter, the growth declined to 6.1 percent from 8 percent in the year-ago quarter.

The government had blamed de-stocking ahead of the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 1 July as the primary reason for the fall in the GDP growth rate.

GST unified more than a dozen central and state levies like excise duty, service tax and VAT, but its implementation has seen technical glitches with the registration and tax filing portal, forcing the government to postpone return deadlines.

In April, when the supporting GST bill was passed in Parliament, the former prime minister had hailed it as a "game-changer" while cautioning against the difficulties in its implementation.

On 30 August, the Reserve Bank of India said nearly 99 percent of the Rs 15.44 lakh crore junked currency had returned to the banking system, raising questions on the

efficacy of the government's note ban decision that was aimed at curbing corruption and black money.
New Delhi: Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Ford Motor Company on Monday inked a pact to explore a strategic alliance covering areas like product development, electric vehicles and distribution in India and abroad.

Under the agreement, teams from both companies will collaborate and work together for up to three years to leverage benefits of Ford's global reach and expertise and Mahindra's scale in India, the two companies said in a statement.

"Any further strategic cooperation between the two companies will be decided at the end of that period," they

added.

The companies said their alliance would look at areas of potential cooperation including, "mobility programmes,

connected vehicle projects, electrification and product development".

Besides, it will explore sourcing and commercial efficiencies, distribution within India, improving Ford's

reach within India, global emerging markets, improving Mahindra's reach outside of India, the statement added.

Mahindra & Mahindra Managing Director Pawan Goenka said: "Today's announcement builds on the foundation laid through our past partnership with Ford and will open opportunities for both of us."

The two companies had a 50:50 joint venture -- Mahindra Ford India Ltd -- in the mid-90s when Ford re-entered India.

Goenka said accelerated rise of new technologies, sustainability policies and new models of urban shared

mobility have triggered changes in the automotive industry globally.

"Given these changes we see the need to anticipate new market trends, explore alternatives and look for ways to

collaborate even as we compete and build powerful synergies that will allow rapid exploitation of the exciting new

opportunities," he said.

Ford Executive Vice-President and President of Global Markets, Jim Farley said the company is committed to India and the alliance could help it deliver the best vehicles and services to customers while profitably growing in the worlds fifth largest vehicle market.

"Our two companies have a long history of cooperation and mutual respect. The memorandum of understanding we have

signed today with Mahindra will allow us to work together to take advantage of the changes coming in the auto industry," he added.

The enormous growth potential in the utility market and the growing importance of mobility and affordable battery

electric vehicles are all aligned with Ford's strategic priorities, Farley said.
Shri Raj Kumar Singh, a former bureaucrat and Member of Parliament from Bihar, took oath as the new Minister of Power, New and Renewable Energy on 3 September, 2017. Various factors contribute to making this role extremely crucial for the growth of our country. India is one of the largest power producers, but the per capita consumption still remains at very low levels. It has often been seen that GDP growth rate and the power generation capacity of the country is co-related, attributing to the importance of this function. Under the leadership of Shri Piyush Goyal, Indian power industry flourished, showing a 60 GW growth in thermal as well as 23 GW growth in renewable energy capacity.

The power transmission capacity also went up by an aggregate of 25 percent. Various policy initiatives like allocation of coal blocks, Discom rejuvenation scheme  UDAY, supply side reforms, green corridors program and the solar parks policy that he initiated during his 40 month tenure has helped the multiple stakeholders in the spectrum from generators to consumers. In 2016, India achieved 5 GW of solar capacity addition, practically doubling its capacity (to 10 GW) from 2015. The new minister has a huge task of maintaining the momentum of renewable-based installations in the country. The solar sector being in infancy needs to be supported continuously so that the dream of Prime Ministers 100 percent electrification by 2018 and 100 GW of solar by the year 2022 is achieved.

Increasing rural electrification & latent demand

It must be noted that while more than 99 percent of the villages in India have the necessary infrastructure of transmission and distribution, only 78 percent of the total households have access to electricity. Central government in partnership with state governments and under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana, needs to provide power to every household at a rate which is rationalised so that Discoms dont shy away from providing power in rural areas and the objectives of UDAY scheme are not defeated. Despite latent demand being present, the plant load factor (PLF) of various power plants have reduced; to address the concerns, the government must also undertake demand side reforms across the country.

Need to stabilize solar sector

The solar sector has witnessed tremendous growth across the country and tariffs have decreased from Rs 10-12.76 per kWh in 2010-11 to Rs 2.44/per unit in 2017 (near about 90 percent fall). Aggressive reverse bidding has brought the tariff to a new low. With such low tariffs, and increase in raw material costs, there are concerns of projects not being commissioned. Government should rethink the mechanism it has adopted to discover the market price of power in order to avoid a market failure in renewable energy sector. Due to decrease in solar module costs, many discoms are now seeking renegotiations of the earlier contracted agreements for the power purchase agreement (PPA). Any step towards renegotiation of tariff will adversely affect renewable energy sector and hurt the investor confidence and lead to developers abandoning projects. There are also concerns that this scenario can lead to increase in NPAs. Regulators must differentiate between renewable and non-renewable based power plants, since the only recurring cost for renewable based power plants are cost of finance.

To achieve the National Solar Mission target on time, the time gap between auctioning and awarding of projects need to be reduced. It has been observed that more than 25 states have failed to meet their renewable purchase obligation (RPO) targets. A new policy that charts out regulatory framework for enforcement of RPOs is required to push states to comply with RPOs. New coal/lignite thermal power plants should abide by the Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO) of installation or procuring electricity from RE-based power plants.

Decreasing reliance on imports

Estimates state that 85-90 percent of the solar modules installed in India in 2016-17 were imported (from China and other countries) leading to a forex outflow of nearly $3 billion. Such high reliance on foreign countries will affect Indias energy security and make it difficult for domestic producers to survive. To realise the objectives of the Make in India mission, one suggestion is that the government should implement anti-dumping duties on imported solar modules so that local jobs and expertise are created in the country. There should also be encouragement for domestic manufacturers to enhance capacities. Given the WTO ruling on the Indian solar sector, the government should also continue to explore new ways to mandate procurement of domestically produced modules for public sector companies.

Reducing rate finance, favourable tax structure for manufacturers, increase in subsidies and incentives, better and easier allocation of resources (land and water), quicker regulatory approvals, higher budget allocation for R&D and clarity on GST are few other issues which the renewable sector is currently grappling with. A favourable policy environment is required to address the above issues. Shri Raj Kumar Singh, the new minister of Power, New and Renewable Energy has extensive administrative experience, and has always served with distinction. Therefore, we believe that he will lead the renewable energy revolution in India, championing solar; mirroring, or even surpassing his predecessor eventually.

(The writer is CEO and MD, Vikram Solar)
Hours after a Level 2 fire broke out on the sets of reality show Super Dancer Season 2 at the historic RK Studios in Chembur, Mumbai, veteran actor Rishi Kapoor mourned the loss of precious memorabilia of RK Films. However, there was more speculation than facts regarding all the historic memoirs that have been gutted.

Now, Mumbai Mirror reports that memorabilia ranging from the legendary Raj Kapoor costumes to those of all the RK Films heroines to sets where iconic songs and scenes of RK Films, have been lost as they were stored near Stage 1 where the set caught fire.

"There were costumes from every RK film, from Awaara to Chalen. Most of the stuff was kept neatly in trunks and some of it was even labelled. The costumes worn by every RK heroine, from Nargis to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, is lost. The jewellery worn by Padmini in Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai was also stored here with a lot of love. There were spears, sabers, artifacts, furniture and other regalia used for the various shoots. The Mera Naam Joker mask and clothes... Dabboo (Randhir Kapoor) and I couldn't believe what hit us. This is probably why they say that one should never put all eggs in one basket. But for us, this was our father's legacy, and it was a treasure trove," Rishi says, as per the same report.

Besides these, the stage which got completely destroyed because of the fire has provided the setting to a large number of films produced under the banner. Classic songs like 'Pyar Hua Ikrar Hua' from Raj's 1951 film Awaara and 'Om Shanti Om', featuring Rishi on a revolving stage, from Subhash Ghai's 1980 thriller Karz were also shot there.

Rishi's Karz co-star Simi Garewal also expressed her shock at the news of the RK Studio fire. The Hindu quotes her as saying, "Stage 1 is where I shot with Raj Kapoor for my documentary Living Legend Raj Kapoor for Channel 4, UK. I recall him asking, while standing there at Stage 1, what is a studio? Is it granite, cement, bricks or walls? 'What is important is not the studio but what is made there by the people,' he said. That statement has kept flashing back to me since this news came up."

The same report, however, states that the negative prints of all RK Films are safely housed in another building within the studio premises. Thus, they escaped the wrath of the fire.
Malayalam superstar Dileep's fourth bail plea has been rejected by Angamaly magistrate court in the Malayalam actress assault case.

The News Minute reports that the court rejected Dileep's bail a day after extending his remand period to 28 September. This comes as a major setback for the actor as his long awaited film Ramleela is slated to release on the same day. The same report states that the film had already been pushed for two months due to his arrest.

Deccan Chronicle reports that Amidst expectation of him filing his fourth bail application in the Kerala High Court, Dileep opted for the magistrate court instead, which has already rejected his first bail application. However, this time, besides arguing that he has been framed in the Malayalam actress assault case, Dileep's counsel also asked for a bail on grounds of natural justice as his remand period has exceeded 60 days and that he has been cooperating with the police in the investigation.

However, Manorama Online reports that the prosecution argued that releasing Dileep on bail at this juncture of investigation could prove fatal to the case as he might attempt to influence the witness. Subsequently, the court rejected his fourth bail plea application as well.

Also read - Malayalam actress assault case: 60 days after Dileep was arrested, a look at developments
Los Angeles: Indian-American Aziz Ansari and African-American Lena Waithe added a shade of diversity to the winners of the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards here as co-writers of a Master of None episode on a character coming out to her family as a lesbian.

They won for the Thanksgiving episode, in which Waithe's onscreen character Denise discovers her sexuality and comes out to her friends and family over the course of five Thanksgivings spanning 22 years.

The duo received a standing ovation as they took the stage, where Ansari let Waithe gave the acceptance speech at the Microsoft Theater where the Emmys were held this year.

Waithe, who also now holds the distinction of becoming the first African-American woman to win an Emmy award for writing for a comedy series, thanked her mother, girlfriend, the show's cast and the LGBTQIA community for their support.

"I love you more than life itself," Waithe said to her girlfriend, while also thanking her mother for inspiring the Thanksgiving episode.

Expressing gratitude to the LGBTQIA community, she said, "I see each and every one of you. The things that make us different, those are our superpowers. Every day when you walk out the door and put on your imaginary cape and go out there and conquer the world because the world would not be as beautiful as it is if we weren't in it."

Waithe also took a moment to thank the Television Academy for embracing diversity. "For everybody out there that showed so much love, thank you for embracing us, a little Indian boy from South Carolina and black girl in the southtown of Chicago. We appreciate it more than you could ever know."

Before the gala, Waithe took to Instagram to share a childhood photograph in which she looks joyful. She captioned it: "This little girl always dreamed of going to the Emmys one day. And today her dream comes true. This is how I feel no matter what happens tonight."
Telugu producer Dil Raju has been booked on plagiarism charges by novelist Shyamala Rani who accused his 2011 film Mr Perfect of having glaring similarities to her 2010 novel Na Manasu Ninnu Kore.

Deccan Chronicle reports that Rani moved Miyapur court, which in turn directed Madhapur police station in Hyderabad to file a complaint against both Raju and director Dasaradh. The same report states that the story of Mr Perfect was provided by KS Ravindra aka Bobby, who is currently directing Jr NTR starrer action film Jai Lava Kusa.

Hindustan Times reports that Rani has claimed that she could not sell her novel's story to any prominent Telugu producer because of the same reason. She realised the glaring similarities while watching the film on television in 2013.

The same report states that both Raju and Dasaradh have not received a notice yet. But the Deccan Chronicle report states that Madhapur DCP Viswa Prasad has confirmed that a complaint has been filed and that they will closely compare the novel and the film as part of their investigation.

Mr Perfect stars Baahubali star Prabhas, Kajal Aggarwal and Taapsee Pannu. It was a major commercial success when it released in 2011. However, there is no word on why the complaint, pertaining to a six-year old incident, has been filed now.
Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party have repeatedly vowed to end VIP culture in India, media reports suggest that we are still far from that reality and the average citizen continues to be as vulnerable as before.

A report in The Times of India showed that a total of 20,828 VIPs across the country currently enjoy official police protection by 56,944 personnel. This indicates that three police personnel on average guard each of those VIPs, which leaves us with one policeman for 663 common citizens.

This highly skewed ratio has often been linked to several instances across India where the police failed to intervene in time, leading to damage to public property and, on many occasions, resulting in a heavy civilian casualties.

Here are some of the major instances in the last five years when police failed to step in and prevent widespread violence:

Panchkula violence, Haryana (2017)

Thirty-eight people died and over 250 were injured in Panchkula and other areas in Haryana after followers of self-styled godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was convicted by a court in August. The former Dera Sacha Sauda chief, who used to operate out of Sirsa in Haryana, was convicted in two rape cases and sentenced by a special CBI court to 20 years' imprisonment.

Several vehicles, which belonged to the media and police, were damaged or torched by the mob, which also vandalised other public property.

Gorkhaland agitation, West Bengal (2017)

Instances of violence continue to punctuate an indefinite strike called by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha for the creation of a separate Gorkhaland state. The strike, which has continued unabated since June 2017, has seen deaths of activists, torching of public offices, and regular clashes with police.

Mandsaur violence, Madhya Pradesh (2017)

Six farmers were shot down by the police in Mandsaur in June, when protests to demand loan waivers turned violent, leading to burning down of 25 trucks and two police vans. One month after the police admitted that it was indeed the police which fired the shots, permission for subsequent rallies was denied to farmers.

Patidar agitation, Gujarat (2016)

At least two dozen people were injured and multiple vehicles were torched when protests by members of the Patidar community in Gujarat turned violent, as outnumbered policeman fought running street battles with stone-throwing demonstrators.

Cauvery riots, Karnataka (2016)

One person was killed and at least 30 buses were set ablaze when rioting erupted in Bengaluru in September 2016 after the Supreme Court ordered Karnataka to release 12,000 cubic feet of water per second per day from the Cauvery river to Tamil Nadu.

Jat agitation, Haryana (2016)

Violence during the Jat agitation, which claimed lives of 16 people and is estimated to have caused property losses of Rs 1,100 crore, was caused by separate mobs which went on rampages in Rohtak and Jajjhar districts in February 2016. Allegations of widespread gang rape were also levelled at the agitators in Murthal and Sonepat.

Muzaffarnagar riots, Uttar Pradesh (2013)

At least 60 people were killed and over 50,000 displaced in violence in Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts of Uttar Pradesh in 2013. Many opine that these riots, which have been described as the worst instances of communal violence in Uttar Pradesh, led to such horror largely because of police apathy.



Bodoland agitation, Assam (2012)

Violence in Assam broke out with riots between indigenous Bodos and Bengali speaking Muslims in July 2012, where at least 77 people lost their lives and over 4,00,000 people from 400 villages were displaced. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi later blamed the Central government for delay in sending troops to the violence-hit regions.

The demand for a separate Boroland state has come up in subsequent years, but the violence has been curtailed.

Azad Maidan violence, Maharashtra (2012)

Two people died, 54 were injured and property worth Rs 2.74 crore was damaged when a formal protest at Azad Maidan turned violent in August 2012. Although over 80 were charged for rioting, the case is yet to conclude. Azad Maidan in Mumbai is an area used regularly for protests, and is usually protected by police.
On Monday, India marked the first anniversary of the Uri terror attack on an army camp in Jammu and Kashmir.

Seventeen soldiers were killed while 19 others were injured in what was dubbed as the deadliest attack on the Indian Army in at least two decades.

Here is a look at all the important events that occurred in matters related to national security, politics, and the changes to the way the army operates.

Surgical strikes

After the attack, the clamour for a surgical strike on Pakistan rose sharply, with even members of the ruling BJP urging India to "teach a lesson" to Pakistan. Senior party strategist Ram Madhav demanded "for one tooth, a complete jaw".

Modi came under immense pressure to live up to his 2014 election campaign rhetoric of showing Pakistan that India is not a "soft power" and would give a "befitting reply" to any attacks on the country.

Special forces of the Indian Army conducted surgical strikes to destroy terror launchpads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on 29 September, 2016.

"Based on credible information that some terrorist teams had positioned themselves at the Line of Control, the Indian army conducted surgical strikes on terror launch pads across the LoC. The operations were focused to ensure that terrorists do not succeed in their plans for infiltration," the then Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Ranbir Singh said.

However, Pakistan denied any surgical strikes had been carried out. Pakistan even stated at the United Nations that India was lying about conducting a surgical strikes.

Opposition questions veracity of strikes

While Pakistan Ambassador to the UN Maleeha Lodhi said India's "claim" of carrying out a surgical strike across the Line of Control was "false", she added that India had, by its own admission, "committed aggression" against Pakistan, according to a statement by the Pakistan mission.

She added that the responsibility for the "escalating crisis rests entirely on India", a press release stated.

Even the Opposition doubted the veracity of the surgical strikes and demanded that the government release video of the operation. However, the BJP criticised the Opposition, specifically Arvind Kejriwal and the Congress.

"Indian leaders are questioning the surgical strikes. There can be nothing more unfortunate," Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said.

"In matters of national security, one should not raise frivolous questions just because of political rivalry. No question should be raised which will affect the morale of the Indian Army," the Union minister said. "Politics has its own place. Please do not do or say anything which insults the Indian Army," he had added.

After the surgical strike, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit that was supposed to take place in Islamabad in October 2016 was suspended, as several members, led by India, backed out.

Changes in army brass, tactics

Post the surgical strike, the Indian Army also made quite a few changes. While DS Hooda, who headed the Northern Command, retired and was succeeded by Devraj Anbu, DGMO Randhir Singh was made the General officer Commanding (GOC) of the Mathura-based 1 Corps.

Lieutenant General AK Bhatt was made the new DGMO of the Indian Army. Moreover, General DS Suhag has since then retired and been succeeded by Bipin Rawat.

Tactics to deal with militancy were also changed after violence broke out in Kashmir following the death of militant commander Burhan Wani's in an encounter on 8 July, 2016.

Signalling an aggressive stance, the army on 11 May decided to re-introduce cordon and search operations (CASO) as a "permanent feature" of its campaign against militants. The practice was initially abandoned in 2001.

Army sources said CASO will now be carried out in a major way in militancy-hit areas of Kulgam, Pulwama, Tral, Budgam and Shopian in south Kashmir.

Terror attacks, infiltration continued

While the fear of an all-out military confrontation between India and Pakistan eventually subsided, terrorist infiltration into Kashmir seemingly continued unabated.

In two major terror attacks, that rocked Jammu region on 29 November, seven army personnel, including a Major, were killed and eight other security men, including a BSF DIG, were injured, before six heavily-armed terrorists were eliminated in the separate encounters.

As per a RTI application filed by the Firstpost in August, 135 terrorists were killed by the security forces, while 43 security men were killed in terror attacks and encounters in 2017.

On 9 May, militants killed 22-year-old Lieutinent Ummer Fayaz after abducting him from his relative's house in south Kashmir's Shopian. His bullet-riddled body was found in Herman area of Shopian the next day.

Perhaps, one of the biggest terrorist attack in Kashmir was the 11 July strike on Amarnath Yatris in Anantnag. The attack killed seven pilgrims and injured three policemen, with officials suspecting the hand of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujaheedin.

Ceasefire violations and infiltration by Pakistan too continued unabeted after the surgical strike. According to the army, until June 2017, 22 infiltration attempts were foiled and 34 armed intruders were eliminated on the Line of Control.

In a significant development, in July 2017, Al-Qaeda announced its Kashmir wing, adding that Zakir Musa, former commander of Hizbul Mujahideen, would head the operations of the terror outfit.

Militant leaders killed

However, the security forces also enjoyed considerable success in eliminating key militants in 2017. On 27 May, security forces killed Hizbul Mujaheedin commander Sabzar Bhat in an encounter in Tral. After Sabzar, it was the turn of Abu Dujana, the Lashkar commander, who was killed by security forces on 2 August in Pulwama.

Dujana was succeeded as the Lashkar operational commander by Abu Ismail, another Pakistan national, also considered a mastermind of the Amarnath Yatra attack. However, he too met the same fate.

On 14 September, government forces gunned down Ismail, and his associate, Abu Qasim, in an operation that was one of the briefest in Kashmir, a Firstpost article reported.

Ismail was trapped and gunned down on a road side in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, the report added.

Rajnath Singh expresses confidence of 'political solution' to Kashmir problem

During his frequent visits to the Valley, Home Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated that the NDA-led Centre will resolve militancy in the state and integrate Kashmiris into the mainstream. While interacting with the media in June, Rajnath said, "Our government will solve the Kashmir issue. Our government wants a permanent solution while taking people in confidence."

Jitendra Singh in July exuded confidence that militancy in the state would end soon. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Singh said, "I am very optimistic that this militancy is also going to outlive its life as we have seen happening in other parts of the country. I think we are now in the last phase of the militancy."

During his Independence Day address, Modi too adopted a conciliatory approach saying that bullets or abuses would not resolve the Kashmir issue and that it can be addressed only by embracing every Kashmiri.

The prime minister asserted that his government is committed to restoring the lost glory of Kashmir and its status as 'heaven on earth'.

With inputs from agencies
News / International

by Dr. Wangu Mazodze

The party membership and vanguards in the US, Canada and North America is solidly in support of President Tsvangirai as he navigates the political terrain with regards to an inclusive coalition building process.As a progressive province, we are neither naive nor unaware of the machinations by retrogressive elements who are working to derail the terrific efforts by our dear President.We salute the excellent deal making prowess by the president as he magnetically pulls together the likes of Messers Ngarivhume, Biti and Prof Ncube inta alia.The publications by tabloids fed on hullucinations by some low lifers claiming that VP Chamisa wants to take over from Dr. Tsvangirai exposes their sinister agenda.As a province we say, " Jesus has no ambitions to take over from God the Father - Hapana zuva rinobuda rimwe risati ranyura."Being the party's biggest province by land area, we shall countinous protect, defend, support and express opinions on all matters.We wish President Tsvangirai good health!Under authority of the Privincial Council, Mdc T, United States of America Province
New Delhi: A 27-year-old Bangladeshi-origin suspected al-Qaeda operative, who had come to India to allegedly train and radicalise Rohingyas for fighting the Myanmarese Army, has been arrested from east Delhi, the police said on Monday.

Initially, the British national tried to mislead police by claiming that his real name was Shoman Haq. He even showed them a fake voter ID card issued from Kishanganj in Bihar but subsequently, he was identified as Samiun Rahman alias Raju Bhai, they said.

The Delhi Police's Special Cell had been working to gain information about Rahman since July. The sleuths had learnt that a man named 'Raju Bhai' of the al-Qaeda terror group is trying to set up base in Delhi to carry out terrorist activities in New Delhi.

The team of Special Cell deployed sources in the NCR and other states to get information on him. It was further learnt that 'Raju Bhai' is in Delhi and is attempting to recruit people for the purpose of jihad, said Pramod Singh Kushwah, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell).

On Sunday, the police learnt that 'Raju Bhai' would come to Vikas Marg, Shakarpur near ITO, to meet one of the probable jihadist recruits, he said. He was nabbed and later the police learnt his real name. A pistol of 9 mm calibre, laptop, mobile phones, $2,000, 13,000 in Bangladeshi currency and Indian rupees were recovered from him, Kushwah said.

It was also found that he was a trained militant and had visited Morocco, Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Turkey, Syria, Bangladesh apart from India for terrorist activities. He had fought in Syria as a member of Jabhat Al Nusra, an affiliate of al-Qaeda in Syria, against the Syrian government forces, the official said.

In 2013, he was influenced by the ideology of al-Qaeda and joined it. He obtained a three-week training in their camp in Syria and fought there till 2014.

While he was in Syria, their group came to know about the "atrocities" on Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar. With his Bangladeshi background, he was selected to raise a fighter group there. In 2014, he arrived in Bangladesh to radicalise youth to join al-Qaeda with the help of a person named Yasina, a resident of Bangladesh and an old al-Qaeda cadre, the police official said.

He visited Dhaka and other places and radicalised dozens of young people in Bangladesh for their entry into Myanmar from Chittagong. However, he was arrested in Bangladesh for terrorist activities in 2014 and after imprisonment of about three years, he was released on bail in April this year, the official said.

He was in contact with his outfit members via Facebook, WhatsApp and telegram and after being released on bail, he contacted Muhammad al-Jawlani, head of al-Nusrah Front, who directed him to go to India.

In July, he entered India with the objective of setting up base in Mizoram and Manipur to fight for Rohingya Muslims, raise funds and incite youths, Kushwah said. During this period, he stayed at various madrasas in Kishanganj (Bihar), Hazari Bagh (Jharkhand), NCR and other places.

It is believed that he was in touch with a number of youths to incite them to join al-Qaeda, Kushwah said. He visited Delhi frequently for this cause.

Rahman was also involved in cultivating people through Facebook and Telegram app. He was in contact with his outfit members of Syria, including Jawlani and other countries through various chat applications and protected sites. The government had told Parliament on 9 August that according to available data, more than 14,000 Rohingyas, registered with the UNHCR, were staying in India.

However, some inputs indicate that around 40,000 undocumented Rohingyas were staying in India, mostly in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan regions.
A special cell of the Delhi Police on Sunday arrested an Al-Qaeda operative who had been working for the terror outfit for the last four years, said media reports.

#UPDATE - Name of the Al Qaeda's operative is Shubhan Haq. He was looking after Al Qaeda's operation since 2013 pic.twitter.com/245gMS02Oj  News18 (@CNNnews18) September 18, 2017

According to a report on News Nation, the Delhi Police said that the arrested accused Shuman was plotting a "major operation" in the country and his other aid could be also present in the national capital.

Haq, 27, was arrested following a tip-off by Delhi Police's Special Cell, an official said. Haq's interrogation is underway and further details are

awaited, he added.

Al-Qaeda in June had said, according to India Today, that it would target Hindu "separatist" organisations involved in the destruction of mosques and Muslims' property.

On 10 August, a suspected Al Qaeda terrorist was arrested from the capital when he was trying to flee to Nepal. The suspect, Raza-Ul-Ahmed, was found to be a member of Ansar Bangla, a Bangladesh-based terror outfit affiliated with Al-Qaeda.

Ahmed was arrested by Delhi Police's special cell and was later handed over to the West Bengal police. Financial Express had cited police sources as saying that Ansar Bangla was becoming more active in India and many of its operatives had sneaked into the country using forged documents.

On 6 August, another suspected Ansar Bangla militant was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad from Muzaffarnagar. The police had said the suspect Abdullah had been living in Deoband since 2011.

With inputs from agencies
BJP president Amit Shah on Monday appeared before a special sessions court in Ahmedabad following summons issued in the 2002 Naroda Patiya case, in which 11 persons were killed.

Shah was summoned after the key accused in the case and former minister in the then Narendra Modi government Maya Kodnani claimed to have failed to get the BJP chief to depose as a witness in her favour. The court had said it would not re-issue the summons in case Shah failed to present himself.

When the 2002 communal riots took place, Shah was BJP MLA from Sarkhej constituency, while Kodnani was an MLA from Naroda constituency. Kodnani claimed in her application that MLAs and other leaders of the BJP had assembled at the Sola Civil Hospital during the time when the Naroda Gaam killings took place. She had stated in her application that Shah was present at the Sola Civil Hospital, where he too was present with other party leaders and hence, he should be examined too.

Kodnani on 12 September told a special court, hearing the 2002 Naroda Gam massacre case, that she could not find the address of BJP president Amit Shah to summon him as a defence witness in the Naroda Gaam case.

Gujarat: Amit Shah leaves after appearing before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case. pic.twitter.com/CGDNhH7Szo  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

CNN-News18, reporting from inside the court, quoted Shah who said, "I stayed at Naranpura and was Sarkhej MLA in 2002. On 27 February, 2002, we got news of the Godhra incident." When asked where he was on 28 February, 2002, the BJP leader said, "I went to the assembly at 8.30 am on that day. The Vidhan Sabha proceedings got over in about half an hour after condolences were given to Godhra victims."

"Kodnani did not go to Naroda Gaam between being at the Assembly session and Sola Hospital. We did speak about me appearing as a witness in the Naroda Patiya case, but the SIT has not bothered to ask me whether I was with her on 28 February, 2002, or not."

When asked if Kodnani was present in the assembly, Shah replied in the affirmative. "After the (session of the Gujarat) Assembly got over, I received many calls from Sola Civil Hospital as it was in my constituency, so I went there," he said

"What time did you reach the hospital? What did you see there?" asked defence counsel Amit Patel, News18 reported. "I reached between 9.30 pm and 9.45 pm. There was a lot of commotion and confusion. Relatives of those who died were there and the postmortem was ongoing."

Top leaders from Gujarat BJP said that Kodnani filed her application for summoning defence witnesses including Shah without even speaking to them. According to reports, when Shah learned that his name has also been included in the list of witnesses to be summoned, he is understood to have expressed anger and displeasure at this and even asked the state party leadership to reprimand Kodnani.

"I was not allowed entry into the postmortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose postmortem and identification had been completed. There were several karyakartas with me; people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital," said Shah.

"I was at the hospital for quite some time. I remember seeing Jaideep Patel and other leaders. I tried to pacify the crowd but they surrounded me; the police had to take me and Kodnani away from the spot in one of their jeeps. This was at around 11 or 11.15 am," said Shah.

"I learnt about the Godhra incident when the home minister announced it in the Assembly. I don't exactly remember where I was sitting when Kodnani arrived at the hospital but the police did cordon us and take us away for protection," he added.

As many as 14 witnesses have already deposed and have been examined.

Kodnani, who was convicted in the Naroda Patiya case in 2012, had insisted that she was in the state Assembly and later at her hospital when the killings occurred on 28 February, 2002.

The Naroda Gaam killings occurred close to another massacre site  Naroda Patiya, in which 100 people were died.

Kodnani wanted to present Shah to testify the veracity of her claims since, according to her, he was with her the whole time.
New Delhi: IAF patriarch Arjan Singh will be given a state funeral at 9.30 am today at Brar Square, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters.

The cortege will leave on a gun carriage from Arjan Singh's 7-A Kautilya Marg residence at 8.30 am.

A gun salute will be given, and if weather permits, a fly past will also take place, the defence minister said. Singh's family has also planned a ritual for the funeral.

An icon of India's military history, 98-year-old Singh breathed his last at an army hospital.

On Sunday, President Ram Nath Kovind led the nation in paying final tributes to Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, hero of 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid a wreath on behalf of herself and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Gujarat for the inauguration of Sardar Sarovar Dam.

The three service chiefs  Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, Naval chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, army chief General Bipin Rawat -- as well as Minister of State Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Puri were also present.

Among other dignitaries who were seen streaming in were Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, MoS for External Affairs and former Army chief V K Singh, former defence minister AK Antony and Congress MP Karan Singh.

Former Indian Air Force (IAF) chiefs SP Tyagi, NC Suri and Anil Y Tipnis as well as several decorated officers who served under Arjan Singh during the 1965 war were also present.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat described the five-star ranking officer as "a legend, an icon, a pilot-chief who led from the front and a philanthropist to the core".

He recalled Singh's immense contribution as the air chief during the 1965 India-Pakistan War, the first major air battle of the IAF after independence. "It was to his credit that despite initial setbacks, we were able to 'overcome and overwhelm' the enemy and spoil their design to annex Jammu and Kashmir," Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa told reporters.

Arjan Singh's daughter, Asha Singh, and other members of the family, including his niece and actor Mandira Bedi, were present at the officer's residence, where his mortal remains lie in state. His son Arvind Singh is expected to arrive later this evening from Arizona, US.

The tricolour will fly at half mast at all government buildings in the national capital on Monday in the honour of the military legend.
Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh was on Monday cremated with full state honours at Delhi's Brar Square. The mortal remains of Arjan Singh were taken in a gun carriage for the ceremony. Military band played farewell tune as the nation bid goodbye to the Air force veteran, NDTV reported.

The Army gave a 17-gun salute to the Marshal. The IAF officers sounded the bugle before the cremation at the Delhi Cantonment area.

The IAF's Sukhoi-30 fighters in the "missing man" formation along with the Mi-17V5 choppers in "insignia" formation made the flypast paying their last respects to the national hero.

Fly past held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/fIYWf15TyM  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Gun salute & fly past held at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/28xxEpOj4I  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Arvind Singh, son of Arjan Singh lit the pyre after Sikh priests performed religious rituals.

The cortege with Arjan Singh's body wrapped in the flag left his 7, Kautilya Marg residence at 8.30 am. It was decorated with marigold flowers.

#LIVE - Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh arrives at Brar Square to pay his last respects to Air Marshal #ArjanSingh pic.twitter.com/qf4t6zBf2l  News18 (@CNNnews18) September 18, 2017

Delhi: Mortal remains of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh being taken to Brar Square for the last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/RPUpQA4wW2  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

#Visuals from Delhi's Brar Square where last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh will be performed. pic.twitter.com/aOTHNk9ZwX  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Delhi: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays wreath & pays tributes to Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh, at his last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/BaF9lFotTJ  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Delhi: IAF Chief BS Dhanoa & Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba pay tributes at Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh's last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/wx8EaWrWdG  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

BJP veteran LK Advani, and Chief of Naval Staff Sunil Lanba laid a wreath at Brar Square in Delhis Cantonment area, Hindustan Times reported.

The Shipping Corporation of India, in a tweet, paid respects to Singh:

We pay our respects to the departed soul of 'Marshal of the Indian Air Force' Arjan Singh, the first 'Five Star' rank officer of @IAF_MCC  SCI (@shippingcorp) September 17, 2017

BJP president Amit Shah paid respects to Singh in a post on Twitter: "Pained by the sad demise of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh ji. I express my deepest condolences to his family and friends," Mr Shah wrote on Twitter. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee condoled the demise of Arjan Singh, in a tweet.

Saddened at the passing of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh. One of India's greatest of all time. Condolences to his family & IAF family  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) September 16, 2017

Singh's last journey of 8-kilometre was accompanied with an Air Force band. He has been accorded a state funeral and the national flag will fly at half-mast in Delhi.

Arjan Singh, who led the air operations in the 1965 war with Pakistan, died at the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi on Saturday. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 98.

Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the IAF when he was only 44 years old.

He was the chief of the IAF when it found itself at the forefront of the 1965 conflict.

Singh, who had flown more than 60 different types of aircraft, had played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.

Known as a man of few words, he was not only a fearless fighter pilot but had profound knowledge about air power which he applied in a wide spectrum of air operations. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, in 1965

With inputs from agencies
The Union home ministry on Monday filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court on Rohingya Muslims' deportation to Myanmar, calling them a "security threat to India", according to media reports.

The government, according to the News18 report, told the Supreme Court that the Rohingyas' continued presence in India would have serious national security ramifications.

The total number of such illegal immigrants into our country would be more than 40,000 approximately as on date: Centre in SC  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

The report added that the petition filed by Rohingya refugees, is being argued by senior advocates Fali S Nariman, and Kapil Sibal. The Centre has said that the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of India is available to citizens only. No illegal immigrant can invoke writ jurisdiction of the court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights enjoyed by citizens only, the Centre further said. The Supreme Court has said that it will hear the matter on 3 October at 2 pm. The Centre has responded saying that it would place all intelligence inputs before SC on October 3 to prove its claim that Rohingyas are a security threat, reported The Times of India.

Centre has contemporaneous from security agencies inputs indicating links of some unauthorized #Rohingyas with Pak terror orgs:Centre in SC  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Some Rohingyas are indulging in illegal /anti national activities i.e. mobilization of funds through hundi/hawala channels: Centre in SC 1/2  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Procuring fake Indian identities for other #Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking: Centre in SC 2/2  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Court may decline interference,leaving to Centre to exercise essential executive function by way of policy decision: Centre in SC #Rohingya  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on 15 September said that the government would inform the Supreme Court on its stand on the Rohingya immigrants on 18 September.

The Supreme Court fixed Monday for hearing a plea challenging the government decision to deport Rohingya Muslim immigrants back to Myanmar.

An affidavit on the issue, which the government had said was just a draft and was being worked upon, was leaked after it was inadvertently served on the counsel for petitioner Muhammad Salimullah.

Salimullah moved the Supreme Court, asking the government to be restrained from deporting the Rohingya.

A letter written to the petitioner's advocate by the Central Agency Section  which deals with cases relating to the central government in the apex court  said that it served the copy of "unfinalised" affidavit "by mistake".

In the draft affidavit, the Centre had said that there were "contemporaneous inputs" received by it that indicated links of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with terror organisations based in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The Centre said it was found organised network of agents and touts facilitating illegal migration of Rohingya.

"It has also been found that many Rohingya figure in the suspected sinister designs of Islamic State and other extremist groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India including that of flaring up communal and sectarian violence in the sensitive areas of the country," read the draft.

With inputs from agencies
Srinagar: A Congress delegation, led by former prime minister Manmohan Singh, concluded its two-day visit to Kashmir on Sunday, after holding discussions on the current situation in the valley with a large number of delegations representing a cross section of society.

The party's 'policy planning group on J-K affairs' returned to New Delhi on Sunday afternoon after two days of meetings and interactions with various groups, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president GA Mir told PTI.

Mir said over 54 delegations and groups, involving about 1,200 people, met the panel. "It was a fruitful visit and the people in the valley responded because there was credibility as it was led by a former prime minister. The interactions are the first indicator that people want peace and discussions," he said.

He said the delegations, groups and some individuals from different shades of the society of Kashmir met the group and apprised them of the ground situation and the reasons behind the prevailing unrest and alienation of the people arising out of the resentment of the mishandling of the situation by the present central and the state governments.

"They also gave them inputs of the feelings and aspirations of the people from different nook and corner of Kashmir Valley, especially the failures of the present dispensations and the betrayal of the mandate of the people by the ruling dispensation," he said.

The delegations also referred to the various working groups and interlocutors' recommendations, including the Justice Sagheer Committee report, and sought their implementation as a way forward to restore the confidence of the people, Mir said.

"They also mentioned about various confidence building measures and initiatives taken during the UPA regime. They regretted that the present dispensation at the Centre and in the state have failed to carry forward that process," he said.

"Almost all the delegations called for evolving a consensus at the national level and debate the issue in

Parliament," he added. The Congress state president said the policy planning group would visit Ladakh by the end of September or early October.

The panel will compile a report and submit to the party high command, which will then decide the party's future course of action, he said.

The panel was formed in April 2017 after the situation in the valley worsened because of widespread

violence by agitators during the Srinagar Lok Sabha bypolls.

The group met various delegations from Kashmir, including opposition parties, bar association, LoC trade delegation, minority delegation, fruit growers association, women's delegation, hotel and houseboat associations, tour and travel delegation, and panchayat delegation.

Meeting separatist leaders was not part of the group's agenda.
Mumbai: An RSS activist has filed a complaint in a magistrate court in Mumbai against Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi and CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for allegedly linking the organisation to the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh.

"I have filed a case of criminal defamation and the hearing is likely to take place on 22 October," lawyer Dhrituman Joshi, who filed the complaint, said.

In the complaint filed on Friday, Joshi cited some purported remarks by Gandhi and Yechury and alleged that they had blamed the RSS for the murder.

"Statements made by the accused and the respective political parties are in utmost sense defamatory and belittle the RSS in the eyes of common public. There was a definite move by the accused to tarnish the image of the RSS, without citing any proof," Joshi alleged in his complaint.

He said that being an RSS worker, he was humiliated and defamed before the common people.

The complaint claimed that the comments, which are "defamatory and detrimental to the image of the RSS", have been made without any proof or official statement by the investigating authorities.

Joshi has also made the Congress, its president Sonia Gandhi and the CPM as party to his complaint.

Journalist Lankesh was killed on 6 September by unidentified assailants at her residence in Karnataka.

Rahul Gandhi is already facing a defamation case in a court at Bhiwandi in Thane district over his alleged comment against the RSS regarding Mahatma Gandhi's assassination.
Editor's note: The rape conviction of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has left the fate of many people in limbo. In the third of a four-part series, Firstpost speaks to the parents of children enrolled in Dera-run educational institutes and brings to light their worries about the future.

Sirsa, Haryana: The rape conviction of self-styled godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh has left the fate of around 7,000 children studying in schools and colleges of Dera Sacha Sauda up in the air.

Following Singh's conviction by a special CBI court, a curfew was imposed in parts of Sirsa, forcing schools and colleges to shut down.

While schools reopened on 16 September, all Dera-run institutions are under investigation.

While parents have been given some temporary relief  the district administration has announced they will oversee the functioning of the Dera institutions they are still worried because officials have revealed that this is temporary.

The final fate of the Dera-run schools and colleges lie with the courts.

Seven Dera-run educational institutes have been shut since 24 August. This includes two boys schools, two girls schools, and one co-ed international school (Saint MSG Glorious International School). The Dera also ran a Polytechnic college and two undergraduate and graduate colleges, one especially for women.

Over 200 parents, students and teachers from educational institutions run by the Dera met Sirsa Additional Deputy Commissioner Munish Nagpal earlier this month and expressed their concerns.

Anand Kumar, whose daughter is studying in Class 7, said he was constantly enquiring with the Dera management about her school's status.

We received two text messages saying that the school will be reopened soon. But we don't see any action," Kumar said.

Sheela Puniya, principal of the Shah Satnam Ji Girls School, confirmed that the district administration had ordered the schools reopened today. We have begun informing parents. We will ensure that we make up for lost time and the students won't be affected," Puniya said.

Parents said that initially, government officials instructed them to enroll their children in other schools. Deputy Commissioner Prabhjot Singh told Firstpost he'd ordered all private schools in the district to accept any student from the Dera-run schools.

While the district education board on Saturday ordered that all educational institutes run by Dera be reopened, this move is temporary. Education officer Yagya Dutt Verma told Firstpost the order was an interim one.

We will ensure that the schools reopen, but since all the Dera-owned assets are under investigation, it is the court that has to take the final call, he said.

He further added that the courts had ordered the seizure of all Dera-owned companies and institutes and that their bank accounts be frozen.

"If the school wants to organise any event or even pay salaries, they will have to contact the district administration. The administration will then approach the court, which will take the final call," Verma said.

Many parents are still reluctant to change schools. They said they are satisfied with the quality of education their wards receive and the emphasis on extra-curricular activities too.

Some parents are also worried about having to shell out money to admit their children to other schools.

We've paid our children's school fees for the entire year. We aren't even sure if we can get our money back," said Baba Gulab, who has three children enrolled in Dera-run schools. The fees in Dera's primary schools range from Rs 60,000 to Rs 1 lakh per year.

Ramesh, whose daughter is studying in a Dera-run college, said she can only get admission into another institute after getting permission from the university, a lengthy and time-consuming process.

Parents said the biggest problem they faced was trying to explain to their children why they could no longer attend school. "My daughter keeps asking me what happened. She's eight! How can I explain that the religious head of the organisation that ran the school was convicted of rape and that's why her school is shut?" a parent, who did not wish to be named, said.

The authors are Haryana-based journalists and are members of 101Reporters.com, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters


Assisted by international forensic experts, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the murder of Bengaluru-based journalist Gauri Lankesh, has started interrogating a number of people linked with the case, among them are her brother Indrajit and her bitter rivals.

The SIT, it is reliably learnt, has drawn up an inventory of people Lankesh targeted in her newspaper, Gauri Lankesh Patrike, for the last one year and has interrogated as many as 100 in the last fortnight.

The team also met up with Hamid Dhabolkar in Pune and shared information relating to Lankesh's murder, including CCTV footage but the son of the slain Left-leaning activist, Narendra Dabholkar, could not offer much help to the SIT, sources who wished to be unnamed, told Firstpost.

The SIT also met up with Uma, wife of slain CPI politician Govind Pansare, in Kolhapur with the evidence but nothing ground-breaking emerged out of the meeting because Uma had problems in identifying the person in the CCTV footage. The person, sources claimed, was five-and-a-half-feet-tall, stocky, wore black dress and a black helmet. Sources, who based their conversations on the postmortem report, said the shooter was not a professional hitman or was not accustomed to the weapon. The ballistic reports from Lankesh's murder is still awaited.

However, the SIT confirmed that it found interesting clues from the public appeal it had made after the murder of the journalist and announced a prize of Rs 10 lakh for those who offer vital information in connection with the murder. "Work is still on," claimed sources, and added, "the information is vital".

The SIT members visited Khanapur, Belgaum and Kolhapur, Mangaluru, Chikkamangaluru, and Sringeri to collect information relating to the murder, and met a host of people, who according to the probe team, could offer clues.

The SIT team also visited Goa and Mumbai and questioned around 15 people, including members of Sanatan Sanstha, which has been under police radar for years now for its alleged role in the murders of Pansare, Dabholkar and another right-wing critic MM Kalburgi. "The head of Sanstha, Jayant Balaji Athaval, was also questioned," claimed sources, adding "nothing concrete" came out in the interrogation.

BK Singh, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Intelligence, refused to comment on the current status of the SIT probe. "I am not interested in sharing any information till the probe is complete," Singh told Firstpost in a telephonic interview.

However, the SIT, it is reliably learnt, is trying hard to seek custody of cases of bullets used in the murder of Pansare, Dabholkar and Kalburgi from the court so that it can be matched with those recovered from the site where Lankesh was murdered. "Unless the bullet cases are found, it would be difficult to pin point on the theory that the same pistol was used for the murders. Every time a bullet is fired, it leaves a particular trace in the pistol. Some linkages can also be found if all the bullet cases are forensically tested," the sources said.

What is interesting is the fact that her brother, Indrajit, when questioned, came out as evasive, at best, during the interrogation. He admitted having a pistol which he had once used to threaten Lankesh but told the members of the SIT that he had patched up with his sister. "He was evasive when asked about the gun. He said he had sold it but could not produce a receipt. The SIT had on Wednesday questioned Indrajit but he was mostly uncooperative during the meeting. He has been given a week's time to revert," the sources said.

Police sources told Firstpost that the SIT will focus on the family-dispute-angle behind the murder.

Bengaluru Police have said that Lankesh and Indrajit had a series of disagreements, both gave statements to the cops against each other and blamed each other for eyeing family property, including the rights of Lankesh Patrike after the death of their father, editor and publisher P Lankesh.

The SIT is in possession of a report from the state police which said as many as 26 country made pistols were smuggled into Bengaluru from Bihar. "It is suspected that the pistol used to kill Lankesh was part of that consignment of 26 country made pistols which were sold mostly to Naxalites in Bijapur district by Bihar based illegal arm smugglers," said a top source.

A rowdy-sheeter, Kunigal Giri, known for his connections with illegal arms suppliers, was questioned but the effort made no headway. Forensics reports also suggest that Lankesh was killed using a country-made pistol, raising the possibility of Naxalites being behind her killing, as Naxalites operating in nearby Telangana mostly use such country made pistols.

Although Lankesh was a pro-Left activist, SIT is working on theory of Naxalites killing her. Her brother Indrajit also told the media that she was getting threats from Naxals for making six of them surrender last year. "She succeeded in bringing a couple of them from Naxalism to the mainstream. For that, she was getting some hate mails, hate letters for past few days," Indrajit told reporters soon after the murder. However, the next day he retracted his statement and said that he was misinterpreted.

But the information given by Telangana Police's Anti-Naxal Squad has put SIT in a fix. This Anti-Naxal Squad of Telangana Police monitors activities and movements of Naxalites via surveillance and other means. Sources in Bengaluru Police told Firstpost that Telangana Police has informed SIT that they have no information about any Naxal operation or Naxalite movement during the week Lankesh was murdered.

Also, among the list of suspects of the SIT are political activists and wealthy industrialists who were distinctly uncomfortable with Lankesh's writings. Lankesh had made it known to some of her confidants about her plans to carry exposes against these people.

The SIT, it is reliably learnt, is not even ruling out the possible involvement of a handful of senior police officers, who had blamed Lankesh for allegedly getting them transferred because she felt they were "corrupt" and "close to one particular political party". And then, the SIT has already interrogated family members of Lankesh who had serious property disputes with her, and a handful of professionals for whom she made her dislike clear through her writings against them.

Some foreign experts  which unconfirmed reports claimed were from the Scotland Yard - were assisting the SIT in technical investigation in the case, which includes forensic studies of bullets, analytical studies of fingerprints on Lankesh's body and footmarks leading to the doorway of her home on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

Sources claim that the foreign experts are finding it difficult to carry out their operations, ostensibly because the site of the murder was not even sanitised by local police after the crime, and everyone, including scores of reporters and neighbours were roaming freely at the site.

The SIT is also zeroing on some other angles which include political rivalry within the ruling Congress party in the state. It is learnt that Lankesh had met up with a very influential minister in the state and had "acquired evidence against two ministers of the current government against whom investigations were already on". It was not possible to ascertain the names of the two ministers.

There were others in Bengaluru who were being interrogated by members of the SIT, among whom is Vikram Sampath, a senior official of Bengaluru Literature Fesstival. In an angry Facebook post, Sampath expressed his total surprise at the SIT's "bizarre" move to record his statement.

"I had never met her even once or interacted with her and was among the first people to tweet from London in condemnation of her dastardly murder.

"The reason I was told left me confounded  that I had once upon a time (way back in 2015!) opposed the Award Wapasi campaign, which then spiraled into the controversy around the Bangalore Literature Festival, eventually culminating in my resignation from the festival in order to save it. At that time, in December 2015, Gauri Lankesh had apparently written very critical article(s) about me in her Kannada tabloid and some English newspaper(s)  none of which I had either read, or even responded to as it did not seem important to me to react to every opinion in that charged atmosphere, with a counter."

"But the entire incident left me with more questions  Is this how SITs proceed? Are there angles that are sought to be planted and then probed? Will the SIT now also be questioning everyone whom Gauri has been critical of - because as a fearless journalist she has been critical of several individuals, including the high and mighty? Given the way this SIT is headed, will it really reach its rightful and logical conclusion? Or go the way several others, especially in Karnataka where killers of writers, civil servants or police officials, have gone nowhere even after years of them being constituted?"

Sampath further wrote he would co-operate in whatever manner. Repeated attempts to call Sampath proved futile.

A senior officer of Bengaluru police who is not a part of the investigation team, said that at this moment of time nothing can be ascertained about suspected killers of Lankesh and it will not be an easy task for the SIT to nab the culprits. On condition of anonymity, he said there are high chances that this case will also languish like previous Left-leaning writers' killings, and the SIT probe too will eventually lose steam.

With inputs from Nishant Goel
News / National

by Staff reporter

FIERCE jostling for power has reportedly erupted in the opposition MDC-T, as party hawks were lobbying for ailing opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai to step down on health grounds and hand over power to his youthful deputy, Nelson Chamisa, NewsDay reported.The opposition party was thrown into a panic mode over the weekend after Tsvangirai, who is battling cancer of the colon, was air-lifted to South Africa early on Friday morning as his health took a sudden plunge.Chamisa, who was catapulted to the position of vice-president by Tsvangirai last year, was according to insiders, a front-runner to take over from his boss, NewsDay heard."There are calls within the party and among our supporters that Tsvangirai should stay at home, rest and relax because the extra work he is doing is taking a heavy toll on his health. The emergency which saw him being airlifted to South Africa left the party in panic," the source said.According to analysts, Tsvangirai had, of late, been grooming Chamisa to take over the reins of power, going with him on international trips where they have met foreign leaders, partners and potential funders."Chamisa has been Tsvangirai's right, hand man over the past year. The two travelled together to Ghanaearly this year for the swearing-in of President Nana Akufo-Addo, before going to Kenya where they met [opposition leader] Raila Odinga. Chamisa was also left in charge at the MDC Alliance meeting in Kadoma when Tsvangirai's health took a nasty turn [last week]," the source said.Chamisa, an advocate, turns 40 next year in time to present his nomination papers as a presidential candidate, who will face Zanu-PF's soon to be 94-year-old candidate, President Robert Mugabe.But, both Chamisa and MDC-T spokesperson Obert Gutu yesterday dismissed Tsvangirai's succession reports as "ill-timed and malicious"."There is nothing to take over. If anything, we need a take-off, president Tsvangirai is well. He is our best foot forward in 2018, he is the popular candidate, he deserves all the support by all of us in the movement and in the country to deliver victory in the 2018 watershed elections," Chamisa said.He added: "So, instead of people calling for him to step down [if ever there is anything like that happening], I think the correct message is to ask him to step up and to encourage every Zimbabwean to register to vote so that we deliver a decisive blow to poverty and backwardness."Gutu weighed in saying: "President Morgan Tsvangirai is doing fine. Why should we even talk about succession when he has been endorsed as our presidential candidate by the MDC Alliance? We are now focused on mobilising our supporters to register to vote in their millions. At the same time, we are also strenuously pushing for the adoption of electoral reforms that will ensure that next year's elections are free and fair."Gutu also said: "Whoever is making those calls is motivated by malice and ill-will. We will not even dignify such rubbish by offering a substantive response."Tsvangirai's other vice-presidents Elias Mudzuri and Thokozani Khupe denied that the party was in a panic mode."The president is doing alright, I last spoke to him this afternoon and he will be back to lead the party and the alliance. So I don't know why people are speculating on leadership change. I don't want to comment on that speculation save to say it's their democratic right to do as such," Mudzuri said, adding he had just met Tsvangirai in South Africa and got assurances that the MDC-T leader was in good health.Khupe, who of late has clashed with Tsvangirai over the party's participation in the MDC Alliance, declined to comment over the issue.Academic and activist Blessing Vava, however, urged the MDCT to look beyond Tsvangirai and begin a process of leadership renewal."I think the MDC-T now needs to look beyond Tsvangirai, he has done his part and he needs to rest. His latest images show that he is deteriorating, he should consider his health more than anything else. The electoral period is rigorous and intense and it's a matter of concern if he is going to pull through, but whoever should takeover should go through democratic processes and not by direct appointment," Vava said.The succession issue has been a major factor in the negotiations between MDC-T and Joice Mujuru's National People's Party (NPP), with Tsvangirai retaining leadership of the MDC Alliance."He has been clear that in the event that he becomes indisposed then his deputy, who was supposed to be Joice Mujuru, can't take over the presidency. Instead, it should be taken by someone from his party and we clearly did not agree with that," a source at Mujuru's NPP said.Tendai Biti's People's Democratic Party was, however, optimistic that Tsvangirai will pull through and lead the alliance to victory."He looks ready to manage. We all have our days, remember he is contesting against a man who is almost a century old. We need to make sure we support him to get to the elections and beyond as best we can and we will leave the rest to the Almighty God. The same who has taken him to this point and will not abandon him at this hour," PDP spokesperson Jacob Mafume said.
Allahabad: The Allahabad High Court on Monday asked the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government to come up with an action plan to tackle the menace of encephalitis in Gorakhpur district which claims the lives of several children every year.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice DB Bhosle and Justice Yashwant Verma passed the order on a bunch of petitions filed by Suneeta Sharma and others who had demanded a judicial probe into the recent deaths of more than 30 children within a span of 48 hours at Gorakhpur's BRD Medical College.

The children, many of them afflicted with encephalitis, had reportedly died because of lack of adequate supply of oxygen at the hospital attached to the medical college.

The court fixed 8 October as the next date of hearing in the matter and asked the Centre and the state to submit their proposed action plan to deal with the menace.
Auto refresh feeds

BJP president Amit Shah has arrived at the Ahmedabad Sessions Court as a defence witness for former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani, one of the prime accused in the Naroda Patiya case, media reports said on Monday. According to DNA, Shah is is expected Ahmedabad City Civil and Session Court at the old HC campus at 11 am to present himself as a witness.

On a petition filed by Kodnani, who is the prime accused in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case, a special SIT court on 12 September summoned the BJP chief to appear before it on Monday.

By summoning Shah and others, including her nursing home and Sola civil hospital staff, Kodnani will attempt to prove she was present at spots such as the Gujarat Assembly, civil hospital, her home, and other places, but not Naroda Gam during the time of riots on 28 February, 2002, Hindustan Times reported.

Maya Kodnani wants to prove she was present in Guj Assembly

She and 31 other convicts have challenged the verdict in the Gujarat High Court which concluded its hearing on 30 August and reserved the verdict.

In 2012, she was convicted on similar charges and sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in Naroda Patiya massacre, a place close to Naroda Gam. She was held as the kingpin of the riots.

Maya Kodnani is accused of leading a mob of thousands of people and inciting them for violence in Naroda Gaam in which 11 Muslims were killed. She is among the 82 accused who are facing trial.

Kodnani is accused of leading mob of thousands and inciting them for violence

"I was at the hospital for quite some time. I remember seeing Jaideep Patel and other leaders. I tried to pacify the crowd but they surrounded me, Police had to take me and Mayaben (Maya Kodnani) away from the spot in one of their jeeps. This was around 11  11:15 am," says Amit Shah.

CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying, "I was not allowed entry into the post-mortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose post mortem and identification was completed. There were several Karyakartas with me, people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital," says Amit Shah.

Amit Shah in court says Maya Kodnani and him were escorted away by police during the riots

While the names of many BJP leaders surfaced during the investigation into the 2002 riots, it was only Kodnani who was tried and sentenced by the SIT court for her role in the riots.

Amit Shah's statement on Maya Kodnani will not have any imapct on the outcome of the 2017 Gujarat Assembly elections as the 2002 riots is a distant memory for the voters.

Shah, who arrived at the Sessions Court at around 11 am, has already concluded his statement and the proceedings are now over.

"Maya Kodnani did not go to Naroda Gam between being at the assembly session and Sola hospital. We did speak about appearing as a witness in the Naroda Patiya case but the SIT has not bothered to ask me whether I was with her on February 28, 2002, or not" CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying.

"I was not allowed entry into the post-mortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose post mortem and identification was completed. There were several Karyakartas with me, people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital," says CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying.

Amit Shah says he was not allowed to enter post-mortem room

Deposing before the court, Amit Shah backs former minister Mayaben Kodnani in the case, saying that Shah was in the hospital during the riots in the Naroda Patiya area of Ahmedabad.

While all the witnesses have been examined in the Naroda Patiya case, the procedures will go on. The examining of defence witnesses is over and the statements will be compared with the chargesheet that was filed in the case. However, Shah's deposition comes as a major relief for Kodnani as she was being felt left off after she was convicted in the case.

In an election year, where the BJP is already facing an uphill task to retain the prime ministers home state, this step is one such effort to send out a signal to its core votebank  the majority.

Why Amit Shah chose to be a witness and defend Kodnani is probably to refute allegations that the BJP had left all the riot accused to fend for themselves their party leaders. Shah, in his statement, stood by Kodnani and backed her alibi by saying that they were not allowed in the postmortem room of the hospital and taken away by the police.

The whole deposition lasted for less than an hour

While the names of many BJP leaders surfaced during the investigation into the 2002 riots, it was only Kodnani who was tried and sentenced by the SIT court for her role in the riots.

Amit Shah's statement on Maya Kodnani will not have any imapct on the outcome of the 2017 Gujarat Assembly elections as the 2002 riots is a distant memory for the voters.

Shah, who arrived at the Sessions Court at around 11 am, has already concluded his statement and the proceedings are now over.

"Maya Kodnani did not go to Naroda Gam between being at the assembly session and Sola hospital. We did speak about appearing as a witness in the Naroda Patiya case but the SIT has not bothered to ask me whether I was with her on February 28, 2002, or not" CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying.

"I was not allowed entry into the post-mortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose post mortem and identification was completed. There were several Karyakartas with me, people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital," says CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying.

Amit Shah says he was not allowed to enter post-mortem room

Deposing before the court, Amit Shah backs former minister Mayaben Kodnani in the case, saying that Shah was in the hospital during the riots in the Naroda Patiya area of Ahmedabad.

While all the witnesses have been examined in the Naroda Patiya case, the procedures will go on. The examining of defence witnesses is over and the statements will be compared with the chargesheet that was filed in the case. However, Shah's deposition comes as a major relief for Kodnani as she was being felt left off after she was convicted in the case.

In an election year, where the BJP is already facing an uphill task to retain the prime ministers home state, this step is one such effort to send out a signal to its core votebank  the majority.

Why Amit Shah chose to be a witness and defend Kodnani is probably to refute allegations that the BJP had left all the riot accused to fend for themselves their party leaders. Shah, in his statement, stood by Kodnani and backed her alibi by saying that they were not allowed in the postmortem room of the hospital and taken away by the police.

Gujarat: Amit Shah leaves after appearing before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case. pic.twitter.com/CGDNhH7Szo

The whole deposition lasted for less than an hour

BJP president Amit Shah has arrived at the Ahmedabad Sessions Court as a defence witness for former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani, one of the prime accused in the Naroda Patiya case, media reports said on Monday. According to DNA, Shah is is expected Ahmedabad City Civil and Session Court at the old HC campus at 11 am to present himself as a witness.

On a petition filed by Kodnani, who is the prime accused in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case, a special SIT court on 12 September summoned the BJP chief to appear before it on Monday.

The court had said it will not re-issue the summons in case Shah fails to present himself.

By summoning Shah and others, including her nursing home and Sola civil hospital staff, Kodnani will attempt to prove she was present at spots such as the Gujarat Assembly, civil hospital, her home, and other places, but not Naroda Gam during the time of riots on 28 February, 2002, Hindustan Times reported.

Kodnani's advocate Amit Patel submitted before the court the residential address of Shah in Thaltej area of Ahmedabad city, after which the court issued the summons to him on the same address.

Earlier, Kodnani had failed to give the address to which the summons to Shah were to be issued. Her advocate had twice sought time for four days each to her to find out and submit the address on which the summons could be issued to Shah.

The court had in April allowed Kodnani's plea to have the summons issued to Shah and some others as witnesses in her defence.

At the subsequent hearings, the court had asked Kodnani to tell it whether Shah will depose as her witness.

Kodnani, in her application to prove her innocence, said that on the day of incident she had visited Sola civil hospital after attending the state Legislative Assembly. She claimed in the application that Shah, who was an MLA at that time, was also present at the Sola civil hospital, where bodies of 'karsevaks' killed in the Sabarmati train burning incident were brought from Godhra.

Kodnani said that Shah's testimony will help prove her alibi.

Two weeks back, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months.

A bench headed by then Chief Justice JS Khehar was informed that the trial was in progress and evidence of the defence witnesses was being recorded by a special court. The top court had asked the lower court to complete the recording of evidence of the remaining defence witnesses in two months.

The massacre in Naroda Gam in Ahmedabad is one of the nine major 2002 communal riots cases which were investigated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Eleven persons belonging to the minority community were killed in Naroda Gam in the 2002 riots, during a bandh called to protest the Godhra train burning incident.

A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

Kodnani, who was then a minister in the Narendra Modi-led state government, has already been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the case of riot at Naroda Patiya where 97 people were massacred.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the members of the District Bar Association of Gurugram not to obstruct in any manner the proceedings going on before a special judge there relating to the murder of a seven-year-old student in the Ryan International school.

The apex court was informed by the bar body that they have withdrawn their earlier resolution in which they had said that no lawyer will represent any of the accused in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra observed that an accused has the right to be represented by an advocate and the bar was under an obligation not to obstruct any lawyer from appearing on behalf of an accused.

"We must say without any hesitation that any accused, whatever the offence maybe, has a right to be represented by an advocate. The tradition of bar does not authorise any bar association to pass a resolution like this.

"However, the solace is realising the fault. The bar association has withdrawn it (resolution)," the bench, also comprising Justice AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud, said.

The bench was hearing a plea filed by Francis Thomas, the northern zone head of Ryan Group, seeking transfer of the student murder case from the local court at Sohna, alleging that the bar has restrained lawyers from representing the accused in the sensational case. Thomas was arrested in connection with the case.

During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Sandeep Kapur, appearing for Thomas, told the bench there was "hostile atmosphere" at the Sohna court and no lawyer was appearing for the accused in the case.

Class 2 student Pradyuman was found with his throat slit on the morning of 8 September in the toilet of the Ryan International School in Gurugram.

Police allege that 42-year-old bus conductor Ashok Kumar killed him with a knife after the boy resisted an attempt to sodomise him.
Washington: Chelsea Manning, the transgender US soldier convicted of espionage for leaking national security secrets, has said that she was not a traitor as her critics have claimed and did what she thought was right, the media reported.

Manning made the remark on Sunday while addressing a crowd at the annual conference for The Nantucket Project in Massachusetts, reports Politico news.

"I believe I did the best I could in my circumstances to make an ethical decision," she told the crowd when they asked if she was a traitor.

The 29-year-old Manning is a transgender woman who was known as Bradley Manning when she was convicted in 2013 of leaking a trove of classified documents.

She was released from a military prison in May after serving seven years of a 35-year sentence, which was commuted by former President Barack Obama in his final days in office.

Tom Scott, who co-founded The Nantucket Project, said he invited Manning for "clarity of understanding", Politico reported.

Scott said some of the attendees were upset that Manning was invited, but he did not consider retracting the invitation.

On 15 September , Harvard University reversed its decision to name Manning a visiting fellow, a day after CIA Director Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned appearance over the title for Manning.

"I'm not ashamed... I view that just as much of an honoured distinction as the fellowship itself."
New York: Foreign ministers of India, US and Japan will hold a trilateral meeting on Monday to give momentum to their cooperation, amid China flexing its muscles in the region.

Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj will hold the trilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono on Monday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, an Indian official said.

During her week-long stay, Swaraj, leading a high-powered Indian delegation, is expected to hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

Swaraj will address the annual session of the UN General Assembly on 23 September. The minister is scheduled to have a series of meetings on Monday including that with Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese prime minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

Swaraj will also attend a high-level meeting on UN Reforms hosted by the US and chaired by its president Donald Trump.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.
New Delhi: Hours after stoking a controversy with a tweet that contained a Hindi abuse, Congress leader Manish Tewari on Sunday clarified his remark saying that his target was not Prime Minister Narendra Modi but the person who compared the latter with Mahatma Gandhi.

Replying to a Twitter user earlier on Sunday who had written that even Mahatma Gandhi cannot teach Modi patriotism since it was already in his DNA, Tewari had posted a message which riled many Bhartiya Janata Party leaders who found it to be "abusive" and condemned it subsequently.

"Ise Kehte Hain C******* Ko Bhakt Bana Na or Bhakton Ko Permanent C******* Bana Na -Jai Ho. Even Mahatma cannot teach Modi Deshbhakti (This is what we call making fools their disciples, and votaries permanent fools)," read Tewari's tweet that snowballed into controversy.

2/2 Sikhiyan- Unko Mahatma Gandhi v Nahi Sikha Sakta...' Subsequent Tweet in colloquial was deriding the response.No offence meant to PM 2/2  Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) September 17, 2017

But later, he offered a conditional apology. "Willing to apologise for using a 'colloquial' Hindi phrase. However will PM promise to unfollow those who heap unmentionable abuse on women???" he wrote.

Willing to apologise for using a 'colloquial' Hindi phrase However will PM promise to unfollow those who heap unmentionable abuse on women???  Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) September 17, 2017

The episode began with a tweet shared on Sunday even earlier by Tewari of a video clip which showed Modi walking while the national anthem played during his Russia trip in 2015.

The tweet was responded to by a user who then proceeded to compare Modi with the Mahatma saying he needed no lesson in patriotism.

The issue remained hot on Sunday with BJP leaders taking issue with Tewari over it.

"This is a new low as far as the Congress party is concerned. We have seen use of abusive languages by various Congress leaders' in the past. We have seen how (Congress leader) Digvijaya Singh used exactly similar kind of words which I cannot even pronounce in front of the camera for the Bhartiya Janata Party and the Prime Minister.

"And yet again the offence has been repeated by none other than a lawyer who was formerly the information and broadcasting minister of the country. It's extremely unbecoming for an educated person to use such kind of language, that too when you are official spokesperson of the party," BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra told Republic news channel.
BJP president Amit Shah arrived at the Ahmedabad City Civil and Session Court as a defence witness for former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani, one of the prime accused in the Naroda Patiya case, media reports said on Monday. According to DNA, Shah was expected to reach the court at the old high court campus at 11 am to present himself as a witness.

Shah's deposition started before Judge PB Desai who had last Tuesday summoned him in response to an application filed by Kodnani, the prime accused in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case.

The court had then said it will not re-issue the summons in case Shah fails to present himself.

Kodnani requesting Shah and others, including her nursing home and Sola civil hospital staff to be a witness is an attempt to prove she was present at spots such as the Gujarat Assembly, civil hospital, her home, and other places, but not Naroda Gam during the time of riots on 28 February, 2002, Hindustan Times reported.

Kodnani's advocate Amit Patel submitted on 12 September before the court the residential address of Shah in Thaltej area of Ahmedabad city, after which the court issued the summons to him on the same address.

Earlier, Kodnani had failed to give the address to which the summons to Shah were to be issued. Her advocate had twice sought time for four days each to her to find out and submit the address on which the summons could be issued to Shah.

The court had in April allowed Kodnani's plea to have the summons issued to Shah and some others as witnesses in her defence.

At the subsequent hearings, the court had asked Kodnani to tell it whether Shah will depose as her witness.

Kodnani, in her application to prove her innocence, said that on the day of incident she had visited Sola civil hospital after attending the state Legislative Assembly. She claimed in the application that Shah, who was an MLA at that time, was also present at the Sola civil hospital, where bodies of 'karsevaks' killed in the Sabarmati train burning incident were brought from Godhra.

Kodnani said that Shah's testimony will help prove her alibi.

Two weeks back, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months.

A bench headed by then Chief Justice JS Khehar was informed that the trial was in progress and evidence of the defence witnesses was being recorded by a special court. The top court had asked the lower court to complete the recording of evidence of the remaining defence witnesses in two months.

The massacre in Naroda Gam in Ahmedabad is one of the nine major 2002 communal riots cases which were investigated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Eleven persons belonging to the minority community were killed in Naroda Gam in the 2002 riots, during a bandh called to protest the Godhra train burning incident. A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

Kodnani, who was then a minister in the Narendra Modi-led state government, has already been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the case of riot at Naroda Patiya where 97 people were massacred.
Patna: Amid reports of possible winding up of the Marhowra diesel locomotive factory announced by Lalu Prasad Yadav in the Rail Budget a decade ago, chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday batted for the project and said he would have a word with the railways minister in this regard.

"I have seen media reports about railways considering possibility of exiting or winding up Marhowra diesel locomotive factory to be set up in Saran district of Bihar. I will talk to railways minister in this regard," Kumar told reporters on the sidelines of 'Lok Samvad' (public interaction) programme.

According to the reports, winding up of the diesel locomotive project was to give way for electrification, which is seen as the roadmap for future.

"Electrification of railway is taking place slowly. The electrified area in the country is still less than non-electrified areas," Kumar, who himself served as railways minister during the NDA rule of AB Vajpayee, said.

"Complete electrification of railway will take time and till that time diesel engines cannot be discarded.

"In such condition need for high-capacity efficient diesel engines would be there. There is market for efficient diesel engine across the world," he said.

The railways had awarded contracts for the Madhepura electric and Marhowra diesel locomotive factories in Bihar to Alstom and GE, respectively, in 2015.

The two projects were billed as the biggest FDI in the rail sector, together representing around Rs 40,000 crore of investment.

Over 67 acres of land were given by railways to Marhowra project. Work is on in full swing.

The twin projects were announced by former railways minister Lalu Prasad in his Rail Budget a decade back, as a "gift" to Bihar.
New Delhi: The Tamil Nadu government on Monday told the Supreme Court that there were no fresh anti-NEET agitations in the state after it was banned by the top court on 8 September.

The top court had made NEET mandatory for admission to undergraduate and post-graduate medical courses.

The Attorney General KK Venugopal told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice DY Chandrachud that following the directions of the top court on 8 September banning all anti-NEET protests, the chief secretary of the state asked all the district collectors to immediately comply with the top court's order.

The attorney general told the court that "there were no reports from the district authorities about any fresh anti-NEET agitation. As attorney general made his submission, the bench asked the Tamil Nadu government to file an affidavit to that affect".

The court directed the next hearing of the matter on 8 October.

The top court had on 8 September, on a petition by advocate GS Mani, banned all anti-NEET agitations in the state.
News / National

by Staff reporter

FACEBOOK love between Wisdom International Church founder Apostle Mazvarirashe Magubu and his wife Johanna Mahachi has ended in nasty fashion.Both parties confirmed they met on the social network platform leading to their wedding on the day Magubu paid the bride price.The reason for split has mainly been fingered as bed hoping by the man of cloth.Johanna said Magubu had several girlfriends and loses control when he sees light skinned women.Yesterday Johanna decided to pack her belongings and leave their matrimonial home."I have made up my mind to leave this marriage because I have discovered that this man was only after my hard earned cash."There is overwhelming evidence that he has been sleeping around with different women from our church."He is not selective, he sleeps with single ladies, single mothers and even married women," said Johanna.She said she got to know about it through confessions by these women as well as Facebook messages."The evidence have is so overwhelming and it is clear that for the past six months, he has been sleeping with different women."Most of the women he had sex with approached me and told me how he was approaching them."I also have his chats where he was flirting with women, asking women for sexual favours," she said."We haven't been intimate for very long time and he was now sleeping with these women."Apart from Apostle Magubu's adulterous acts, Johanna said she also decided to part ways with him because he was not taking care of her."I sacrificed a lot for this maniage, I left a well-paying job in South Africa where I was based."When we started staying together, I was doing everything for him whilst he was doing nothing."I was actually the one who gave him money to pay for my lobola because I was so in love with him but I later realised that I deserved better."I am the one who bought the whole property and I am taking everything I bought with me."I would give him money for air tickets to and from Nigeria and sometimes he would borrow money in my name," she said.Johanna said Apostle Magubu was also in the habit of making false prophecies to prominent people to solicit money from them."There are a number of promminent business executives and politicians who have been tricked by this man."We would go to houses of different politicians to pray for them. However, I didn't like what he would do when we visit another politician as he would use what the other politician would have said in his prophecy."He did all this just to get money from them but I realised that what he was doing was also dangerous so I no longer want to be associated with him anymore," she said.Apostle Magubu said his wife was being influenced by her relative to part ways with him."The challenge I am having in my marriage is that my in-laws never loved me from the start."They were always against our marriage and yes I am not perfect but I know we could have solved our problems if her family was not involved."The chats that she saw were between me and women I used to date before her, there was nothing I could have done to cut communication because tbey were still interested in talking to me," he said.
New Delhi: The CBI on Tuesday informed the Supreme Court that it has concluded the probe into the murder of journalist Rajdev Ranjan and filed a charge sheet against eight accused including RJD strongman Mohd Shahabuddin. Replying to another query by the court, the agency said it has not yet probed the issue relating to media reports featuring photographs and videos that showed former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav, the son of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, along with one of the then absconding accused.

The submission was made by the probe agency before a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud after it enquired about the status of the investigation in the case. The counsel for CBI said that the final report has been filed on 22 August before the special CBI court.

When the bench enquired as to whether CBI has probed the issue relating to media reports featuring photographs and videos that showed Tej Pratap along with one of the then absconding accused, the CBI said it has not probed this yet. The court then adjourned the matter for eight weeks. The apex court had earlier issued notices to Shahabuddin, Tej Pratap and Bihar government on the plea of Ranjan's wife seeking transfer of the case from Siwan in Bihar to Delhi.

The apex court had directed the CBI to proceed with investigation and ordered police protection to the scribe's wife Asha Ranjan and their family. Asha had moved Supreme Court seeking transfer of probe and trial in the case to Delhi alleging that media reports had shown two absconding killers of her husband in the company of Shahabuddin and Tej Pratap.

She had sought relief including a direction to CBI to take up the investigation forthwith in view of the fact that the proclaimed offenders, Mohd Kaif and Mohd Javed, have been spotted with Shahabuddin and the state Health Minister, where several cops were also present. Kaif surrendered in a Siwan district court of Siwan on 21 September.

The scribe, working with a vernacular daily, was shot dead on the evening of 13 May in Siwan town by some sharp-shooters allegedly at the instance of then jailed RJD leader, the plea alleged. Despite being named by the family of the journalist, Siwan police did not name Shahabuddin in the FIR as a key conspirator, it alleged.

It also alleged that the RJD leader was irked over some reports by the slain journalist on the issue of murder of three sons of Chandrakeshwar Prasad. Shahabuddin has been awarded life term in one of the cases.
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday cautioned troopers of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) against messages being circulated on social media and warned them not to believe them unless their authenticity is verified.

"As you (SSB) have the responsibility to guard an open border, I want to draw your attention towards social media. I feel that several unnecessary information are circulated on social media which do not have any basis. People generally believe such information and forward it," the home minister said while launching the new intelligence set-up of SSB.

"I appeal to all SSB troopers not to believe the authenticity of such information they get on their mobile phones and WhatsApp until it is properly verified."

Singh said there are several anti-national and anti-social elements who try to forward such wrong activities by circulating them through messages on social media that are very dangerous for any society and country.

"I think, there is a necessity to be cautious and avoid such activities," he said.

The minister further stressed the need to do more for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), saying "what has been done for CAPFs is still not enough, there is need to do more for them".

Reiterating his earlier statement, the minister said the kin of every deceased CAPF personnel should be given not less than Rs 1 core as compensation and that the facility has been started from 2016.

Singh promised to initiate a new scheme which will help CAPF troopers whose family suddenly faces any big problem and they are not able to handle it.

"Our next attempt is to provide some help to the family of a CAPF trooper whose family faces any special kind of problem which he can not handle. I am thinking of it and will definitely do something for it."

"I think, if you (CAPF officers) take care of the family of any martyr, you would not only perform your duty but also earn their blessings."

On the occasion, he launched a full-fledged Intelligence Wing of SSB which is mandated to guard the India-Nepal and India-Bhutan borders.

In a bid to enhance operational efficiency, the home ministry in July had given approval to creating 650 combatised posts for the intelligence set-up in the 96,500-strong SSB.

The 650 posts in various ranks range from battalion to headquarters levels.

The intelligence wing personnel would be deployed along the 1,751-km India-Nepal and 699-km India-Bhutan borders where there are no restrictions on the movement of people on either side.

SSB director general Archana Ramasundaram said the intelligence wing was required due to cross-border movement of criminals and anti-national elements in the context of visa-free regime on these borders.

As most stretches of the border see activities of Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence, Indian insurgent groups, Maoists, fundamentalists, smugglers of arms and ammunition, narcotics, Indian fake currency racketeers and human traffickers, the wing will really help in keeping a proper tab on these, she said.

On the occasion, the home minister also launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) app and distributed scholarships to the children of SSB personnel killed in the line of duty.

The mobile app is available on Google Play store and is user-friendly, the SSB DG said.

"The app contains various useful features to facilitate retired CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances redressed, seek skill development training through the National Skill Development Corporation under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information," she added.

"It will also help retired personnel to have better coordination with WARB and its field formations at states, union territories and district level."
Imphal: The Indian government might be keen to send the Rohingya Muslims packing to Myanmar but its consistent failure in deporting 11 of them, who have been languishing in Manipur jails for years, shows it's easier said than done.

According to various aid agencies, about 40,000 Rohingya Muslims are living in India since fleeing their homeland of Myanmar in the wake of violence. This community has been living in the country's Rakhine state since 8th century but the government does not consider them citizens. They live in poverty and are denied most basic of human rights, like education and freedom to marry, to name two. Myanmar's latest "security operation", which the world leaders have called genocide and ethnic cleansing, is forcing them to seek asylum in other nations yet again.

Terming them illegal immigrants, a drain on the country's resources and a security threat, the Indian government has categorically said it seeks to deport all the Rohingyas. On the other hand, it has failed to deport 11 Rohingya refugees over the past five years after Myanmar refused to accept them as its citizens.

A prison official from Manipur, which shares a porous border with Myanmar, spoke to Firstpost on the condition of anonymity and said that the authorities concerned in the state have tried many a time to deport the 11 refugees. All of them were arrested on the charges of entering India without valid documents.

The official said deporting is a cumbersome process and requires the involvement of Union Home Ministry and the cooperation of the Myanmar government. With the latter consistently refusing repatriation, the refugees find themselves stuck in Indian jails.

The prison official said the authorities are more than willing to release the Rohingya prisoners but refrain from doing so out of caution. He said there are concerns that people might assault or even kill these immigrants.

Frantic efforts, worth nothing

Reportedly, five Rohingya Muslims who were lodged at Sajiwa Central Jail in Manipur's capital Imphal were repatriated in 2015. Fearing a similar fate  since living in Myanmar is risking death for this minority  nine Rohingya Muslims who are also lodged in the central jail filed a petition in the high court on 8 February, 2016.

About that time, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, New Delhi, wrote a letter to the joint secretary of Union home ministry, seeking access to Myanmar nationals lodged in Manipur's central jail. The letter also made a case for completing the process of determining their refugee status and releasing them.

However, during the hearing on 1 February this year, their advocate Meihoubam Rakesh learnt from the government counsel that the petitioners have filed an application to the Manipur home ministry's principal secretary, seeking their repatriation. A little more than two weeks later, their case was disposed off. The court directed the principal secretary to consult with the ministry of external affairs and take a call on deporting the refugees within six weeks.

Speaking with Firstpost, Rakesh expressed surprise at the inexplicable development and said he did all in his might.

The prison official said they are still awaiting instructions from the Union Home Ministry on what to do with the foreign nationals lodged in the central jail. He informed that response to their paperwork from Myanmar comes in the language and script used in the south-east Asian country and the authorities here have to take the help of the jailed refugees to make sense of it.

Prisoners of fate

Three Rohingya Muslims were arrested on 29 January, 2012, near Indo-Myanmar border from Manipurs Churachandpur district on the charges of entering the country without valid documents. Four days later, six more Rohingya men were arrested in the district. On July 30, the chief judicial magistrate of Churachandpur convicted all nine of them and sentenced them to six months of simple imprisonment under Section 14 of The Foreigners Act, 1946. As they had been in jail all this while, they had already served their prison term by the time the verdict was announced.

More than five years have passed but they still remain behind bars. Similarly, two other Rohingya Muslims were convicted and sent to Sajiwa Central Jail in August 2013 and January 2014. While one is still an undertrial, the other's jail sentence finished three years ago. Altogether, 19 Myanmar nationals are lodged in the central jail in Imphal. A Bangladeshis is also behind bars despite all of them having finished their jail term long ago.

Firstpost tried contacting the jailed Rohingya Muslims, but the tedious process of seeking approval from multiple high-level agencies thwarted the attempt.

SM Jalal Sheikh, the president of All Manipur Muslim Organisations Co-ordinating Committee, said the crisis in Myanmar and Indian government's response to it are unfortunate. He said India accommodated the Tibetans during the Chinese invasion and settled them in Dharamsala but is now being a mute spectator as thousands of innocent people are being massacred in another neighbouring country.

Meanwhile, Manipur chief minister N Biren has issued a security alert, directing that police and district administrations beef up security along the border with Myanmar to check the influx of Rohingya Muslims.

The authors are Imphal-based freelance writers and members of 101Reporters.com, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.


Jaipur: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that those who revere cows do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt.

Rearing of cows is financially beneficial for us, he said to a question asked by a volunteer during a meeting in Jamdoli near Jaipur on Sunday.

Bhagwat, who is on a six-day tour of Rajasthan, said, "People who revere cows devote themselves to rearing cows. They do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt".

There have been several incidents of violence perpetrated by cow vigilantes in recent months.

To another question on use of Chinese goods, he said Swadeshi means to use items and products that are made in small and cottage industries.

"Using Swadeshi products provides employment to people. Using Swadeshi items manifests a sense of pride within," he said.
As Ryan International School in Gurugram reopened 10 days after a seven-year-old boy's murder, Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh said on Monday that the entire crime scene has been sanitised so that none of the evidence gets destroyed. Singh also said there will be a safety audit on an internal portal for parents on Monday evening before he decides whether or not the school will remain open on Tuesday.

Singh was appointed the administrator for the school after the Haryana government suspended the school management.

Since school is re-opened, entire area (crime scene) has been sanitized so that no evidence gets destroyed: Vinay Pratap Singh, DC #Gurugram pic.twitter.com/kcaRiSBl9O  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

We'll put safety audit on internal portal for parents to see. Then we'll decide this evening if school remains open tomorrow: DC #Gurugram pic.twitter.com/0eK8xLqQSP  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

The Class 2 student was found dead with his throat slit inside the school's washroom within an hour after his father dropped him at school on 8 September morning. The case snowballed into a major national issue of safety and security of children in schools, with vociferous protests held by parents and activists outside Ryan schools in several states.

The government has ordered a CBI inquiry into the murder after the child's father Barun Chandra Thakur moved the Supreme Court over his son's murder, demanding that the school should remain closed until the CBI completes its probe.

Just before the Gurugram school's reopening, Varun Chandra Thakur, father of the Class II student had said that reopening the school will erase all evidence about the case. The media have been barred from entering the school premises in Bhondsi on Sohna road as it can cause "undue disturbances".

Meanwhile, Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi arrived for a high-level meeting on security and safety of children in the Ryan International School on Monday.

Delhi: Women & Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi arrives for a high level meeting on security & safety of children in school pic.twitter.com/iCc6S7LbID  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

On Sunday, the trustees of Ryan International School on Saturday moved Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking anticipatory bail in the case.

The trustees, Augustine F Pinto, his wife Grace and their son Ryan, had approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court after the Bombay High Court rejected their bail plea citing jurisdiction issues.

The regional head of the Ryan Group of Institutions, Thomas Francis, who was arrested by the Haryana Police in the case, had moved an application for regular bail.

With inputs from IANS
Prime accused in the murder of seven-year-old Ryan International School student, Pradyuman Thakur's, on Monday told a special CBI court that he was forced by the police to confess to his crime.

The news came in on a day when the Gurugram school finally reopened 10 days after the brutal murder that had triggered widespread outrage against the school authorities for ignoring children's security. Police said on Monday that several security lapses were found at the school during a safety audit.

To address the safety concerns, the school will remain closed till Friday while classes will only resume from 25 September, Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh told ANI.

According to India Today TV, Kumar, who was a bus conductor in the school, also alleged that he was beaten up while he was in custody. Last week, the police had arrested the school bus driver and detained nine school staffers.

Kumar's lawyer Mohit Verma also told The Times of India that he was being made a scapegoat in the case.

"Ashok was tortured, beaten with sticks and forced to confess. He did not murder Pradhyuman, but cops and school made him a scapegoat in this case," said Verma after meeting Kumar in Bhondsi jail.

This comes a week after the bus driver had alleged that the accused and he were being forced to confess and give statements according to the police's narrative.

"Since I am the driver of the bus in which Ashok Kumar (the main accused) was a conductor, I was interrogated by police officers and top officials of the school. They forced me to admit that the weapon of crime (knife) was part of the bus tool kit. They detained me till 1.30 am on Saturday and tried every possible way to terrorise me. Since the knife was not part of the toolkit, I categorically denied it," India Today quoted the driver as saying.

The driver also said that officers threatened to apply third degree on him if he did not admit that a knife was part of the bus tool kit.

"There was the principal, three teachers and some top school officials present along with the police officers on the campus. Officers in civil dress threatened to apply third degree on me if I did not admit that the knife was a part of the toolkit. I inspected the toolkit just a day earlier and I am 100 percent sure that the knife was not part of the toolkit," he told ANI.

Following Pradyumn's death, the government ordered a CBI inquiry after his father Varun Chandra Thakur moved the Supreme Court. Pradyumn, a class II student was found dead with his throat slit inside the school's washroom within an hour after his father dropped him at school on 8 September morning.

The case snowballed into a major national issue of safety and security of children in schools, with vociferous protests held by parents and activists outside Ryan schools in several states.
Fifty-six years after India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation for the Sardar Sarovar Dam over the Narmada river, the project was finally inaugurated by Narendra Modi the 15th Prime Minister on Sunday.

The dam, which is the second biggest in the world after the Grand Coulee Dam in the United States, however, was in the news for the several delays and legal roadblocks that the project faced especially in the last three decades.

Amid the political slugfest between BJP and the Congress to seek credit for the project, it is still unclear on how much of the project is actually complete.

According to a report in The Hindu, the Narmada Control Authority (NCA) recently gave the approval for closing the dam gates.

The report stated that the NCA allowed the authorites to raise the dams height by lowering on 30 gates, which will help in the completion of the project.

Together with raising the dam's height, the decision will also help in increasing the dams storage capacity from 1,565 million cubic metres (MCM) to 5,740 MCM and also increase hydro power generation from the current 1,300 MW to 1,450 MW.

However, the Congress on Sunday claimed that around 80 percent of the work, especially on linking various canals was still incomplete.

The party said that water had reached only three lakh hectares out of the planned irrigation of 19 lakh hectares, and asked whether the BJP government and Modi will apologise to Gujarat farmers.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala added that only 18,803 kilometre of canal network was constructed in the 22 years of BJP rule against planned length of 90,389 kilometres.

The official documents validated part of the allegation leveled by the Congress.

The dam is officially complete, as it now stands at 138 metres: the original height that the Modi government wanted. The main canal is also complete, the data showed. However, as the Congress pointed out, it is the minor canals that are yet to be completed. Out of the 71,748 kilometres of the canal system that have been approved, only 49,313 kilometres are completed. This means nearly 30 percent of the canal system is yet to be completed.

The data also showed that due to the incomplete canal network, the irrigation potential of the system is yet to reach its full level.

While the authorities expect to cover nearly over 36 lakh hectares for irrigation, through minor and sub-minor canals, only a little over 25 lakh hectares have been covered so far.

According to the Gujarat government, "Assured water supply will soon make the area benefiting from the dam drought proof."

The project is also expected to help alleviate the problem of drinking water.

"All the villages and urban centres of arid region of Saurashtra and Kachchh and all 'no source' villages and the villages affected by salinity and fluoride in North Gujarat will be benefited. Water supply requirement of several industries will also be met from the project giving a boost to all-round production," the website noted.

The dam will also be a major source of power generation for the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The power from two power houses of 1200 MW and 250 MW respectively will be split this way: Madhya Pradesh - 57 percent, Maharashtra - 27 percent and Gujarat 16 percent.

However, the whole project has been in the eye of the storm over the negative impact it would have on the local tribals in the region.

Thousands of families along the Narmada river in Madhya Pradesh's Barwani, Dhar, Alirajpur and Khargone districts are at risk of getting displaced with the closing of gates of Sardar Sarovar Dam in neighboring Gujarat and resultant rise in the water level in its catchment area.

However, during his address at a rally, Modi took potshots at those who opposed it, which includes many environment and human rights activists.

"No other project in the world has faced such hurdles as the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada river. But we were determined to complete the project," Many conspired against Sardar Sarovar Dam project, even World Bank refused funding," the Prime Minister said.

"I have knowledge ('kacha chittha') of everyone who tried to stall this project, but I will not name them as I do not want to go on that route," Modi said.

"A massive misinformation campaign was launched against the project. The World Bank which had earlier agreed to fund the project, refused to give loan for it raising environmental concerns. But, with or without the World Bank, we completed the massive project on our own," Modi added.

With inputs from PTI
New Delhi: Some Rohingyas have been found with links to Pakistan's ISI, the Islamic State terror group and extremist outfits targeting India, the Centre said on Monday, while making it clear that it was bound to take action against the illegal migrants as per the law.

The Union home ministry said that the influx of the Rohingyas started in 2012-13 and the involvement of some of these illegal migrants has been noticed in criminal activities, including fraudulent and illegally obtaining Indian identification documents and fake currency etc.

"It has also spawned a network of organised group of touts and agents who are involved in such rackets. In addition, some of the illegal migrants are suspected of having links with ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence) and ISIS operatives and members of extremist groups targeting India," a home ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

Amidst the ongoing debate on the illegal migrants, the home ministry said no illegal migrant has a right to stay in India without prescribed legal documents and asserted that the central government's decision on the declaration of an individual as a foreigner is final according to existing law.

The home ministry also said that the right and duty of the Indian government to take action is critical and any interference with this has the potential of encouraging and legitimising illegal migration which can be detrimental for Indian citizens.

The statement came as the Supreme Court is hearing a plea filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered as refugees under the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). They have claimed that they have taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The central government on Monday told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continuous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The home ministry spokesperson said that the Foreigners Act 1946 empowers the Indian government to take action against foreigners staying illegally in the country and makes it obligatory for the government to act in the matter.

The process of identification and deportation of such foreigners illegally staying in India is elaborately laid in executive instructions which strictly follow established due process of law.

"As a matter of policy, the government of India does not support illegal migrants either in own territories or Indian citizens in foreign territories," he said.

Curbing illegal migration is a priority area for the government since it has major security, economic and social ramifications and impinges significantly on the basic rights of Indian citizens.

Regulated migration, on the other hand, is facilitated through an elaborate visa regime which aims to serve the best interests of all concerned parties, including potential migrants.

No illegal migrant has a right to stay without prescribed legal documents nor is he entitled to the right to reside and move freely within India under Article 19 which is available only to Indian citizens, the home ministry said.

"The government of India's first duty is towards its own citizens which are to be accomplished within available resources. However, all illegal migrants are to be dealt with under the due process of rule and law applicable in our democratic set up," the spokesperson said.
There are 1.04 lakh schools in Maharashtra, with over 2.5 crore students studying in primary and secondary classes. However, with students' security being the talking point in schools across the country, Firstpost has learnt that only 60 percent of the state's schools are covered by CCTV cameras, while the other 40 percent schools haven't done so despite a high court ruling mandating it.

The issue of students' safety came to the fore following the murder of a seven-year-old boy, Pradhyumn Thakur, in Gurugram's Ryan International School. The Ryan group of schools is headquartered in Mumbai, ironically in Borivali, the Assembly constituency of state education minister Vinod Tawde.

When asked about the sorry state of security in Maharashtra's schools, Tawde said the state government has begun precautionary measures, as directed by the Bombay High Court guidelines. Its three-year programme involves the installation of CCTV cameras at all schools, Tawde said. However, he added, CCTV cameras would work as a precautionary measure at best, and will not mean the end of all crime.

It has been 18 months since the Bombay High Court asked the state education department to ensure better security of students. In the more immediate aftermath of the murder in Gurugram, this has achieved new significance. And it wasn't the first time the Ryan school found itself in such a controversy. In 2016, a child's body was found inside the water tank of the school's Vasant Kunj branch in Delhi. Even in Mumbai, a seven-year-old boy was sexually abused by the principal of St. Xavier's School in Andheri, which is owned by the same educational group.

But Tawde admitted he hadn't spoken with the administration of the Ryan schools in the state following the Gurugram incident. "There is no need to focus on this one school. I am concerned about all 1.04 lakh schools in the state," he said.

When asked to comment on the fact that the schools are headquartered in his constituency, and Grace Pinto is the BJP Mahila Morcha office bearer, he said the party's top leadership would have to be quizzed on the topic.

Growing numbers of sexual assault cases against minors in schools had forced the high court to issue a directive. Following this, the state also issued a government resolution (GR) in April 2016 asking all schools to install CCTV cameras. According to the GR, all primary, secondary and privately managed schools in the state should install CCTV cameras. Any schools that don't do so will not get funds from the state government. The schools have also been asked to ensure that cameras installed are in working condition and are monitored regularly by school authorities.

The Maharashtra education department has found itself embroiled in a spate of controversies in the recent past, including over delays in announcing results of Mumbai university's board examinations, even months after the deadlines passed.

Senior NCP leader and former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar hit out at Tawde over these issues plaguing the education department. In a public function in Pune, Pawar, without specifically naming Tawde, asked how can the education department be run by a bogus degree holder. Tawde has no control of the education department, and is helpless though the Mumbai university results are still not declared.

MLC Amrish Patel, trustee and president of the Vile Parle Kelvani Mandal, said, "We installed CCTV cameras 10 years ago in our schools and colleges. After seeing its benefits, we also decided to install it inside classrooms, in the staircase, outside toilets, and around the campus. By having CCTV surveillance, unwanted activities can be curbed and it helps create discipline," Patel said.

Parents from the Andheri-based St. Xavier's School, which had already witnessed claims of sexual assault against children, said there aren't enough CCTV cameras there. "It's very disturbing for parents who send their children to this school. The kids are helpless and anybody can do anything to them. The schools are working as money-making machines, but they aren't bothered about security," said a parent.

"Apart from installing CCTVs, having separate toilets for boys and girls and proper sensitisation of staff is also necessary. The education department is supposed to conduct regular audits to ensure these directives are followed," said Arundhati Chavan, president of the parents-teacher association. She added that they have written letters to Fadnavis and Tawde in this regard.
New York: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived in New York on Monday to represent India at the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session with a packed schedule of super diplomacy among an array of world leaders.

During her week-long stay, Swaraj, leading a high-powered Indian delegation, is expected to hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

Swaraj, was received at the airport by the Indian Ambassador to the US Navtej Sarna, and India's permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin.

She would kick off her official engagement later on Monday with a trilateral meeting with her American and Japanese counterparts Rex Tillerson, and Taro Kono respectively.

Aimed at lending momentum to cooperation between the three countries, the meeting also turns significant amid China flexing its muscles in the region.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted by the US and chaired by President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries who have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.

India has said that the UN reforms need to be "broad-based and all-encompassing" and the changes should not be restricted to its Secretariat only.

In a preview of the Swaraj's engagements during her week-long stay in the US, Akbaruddin had said that issues of climate change, terrorism, people centric migration and peacekeeping are other key focus areas for India this year.

Swaraj will also participate in a special panel of selected countries by the UN Secretary General on climate action, he said earlier.

She will address the UNGA on 23 September.

The minister is scheduled to have a series of meetings on Monday including that with Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese prime minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

Akbaruddin in an interaction with Indian reporters ruled out a bilateral meeting between Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart.

However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings including that of SAARC and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Swaraj is scheduled to leave for India a day after her address to the UN General Assembly.
News / National

by MLF





Click HERE >>> for the FULL DOCUMENT





This document chronicles the suffering compounded by the despicable genocide and ethnic cleansing inflicted on the people of Matabeleland (Mthwakazi) during the past one hundred and twenty-four (124) years by both the British establishment and its proxy, the ZANU-PF regime of Robert Gabriel Mugabe. It gives a fundamental justification as to why the people of Matabeleland (Mthwakazi) must be free to chart their own destiny, free from the tyranny of British colonialism and its proxy, Mugabe's regime in present-day Zimbabwe. It is the intention of this document to lay bare all of the facts by way of a summative outline regarding the genocide and ethnic cleansing that was not only inflicted and imposed through the annexation of the Kingdom of Mthwakazi (Matabeleland) - but also which has been continued and sustained by Robert Gabriel Mugabe's regime during the past thirty-seven (37) years.In presenting the facts as they continue to remain unchanged, it is hoped that the reader close by to Mthwakazi, or within the region notably in Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Malawi, and indeed elsewhere within the wider African continent as well as across all continents of the world, the leaders of these countries, including the opposition parties therein, together with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Human Rights Organisations, Churches of the world and other such organisations will STOP recognising and supporting the regime of Robert Gabriel Mugabe.Clearly, therefore, this document seeks to give readers, policymakers and political decision-makers throughout the world, an insight and understanding as to why the people of Matabeleland (Mthwakazi) must be freed from the chains of genocide, ethnic cleansing, disappearances, unimaginable brutality and torture, poverty, unemployment, disease, illiteracy, and above all homelessness and lack of identity not only in this world but most critically in their own country of origin.It is hoped that after reading this document, the reader will have a concrete and objective basis upon which to validate the plight of this besieged nation. Not least, it is hoped that those who have for so long perceived and admired Robert Gabriel Mugabe as a statesman will recognise him for what he really is, a butcherer and mass murderer of the people of Matabeleland (Mthwakazi). More importantly, it is hoped that for the first time, the international community which includes both Botswana and South Africa will react accordingly and effect serious mechanisms aimed at addressing the plight of the people of Mthwakazi, instead of making so much noise in respect to Cecil the Lion gunned down at Wankie Game Reserve. Rather the international community needs to understand that the assault suffered by a young woman recently in Johannesburg, by the name Gabriela Angels, at the hands of Grace Mugabe provides a historic and contemporary insight into the irrationality of Robert Gabriel Mugabe's ZANU-PF regime in totality since its assumption of power in 1980 in present-day Zimbabwe.
On Monday, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj landed in New York to represent India at the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

EAM Sushma Swaraj reaches New York for #UNGA2017 pic.twitter.com/N6LYmvVfe3  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Swaraj, who will address the UNGA on 23 September, has a packed schedule. She is expected to hold around 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with world leaders.

On Monday, Swaraj will have a trilateral meet with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono to discuss increased cooperation between the three countries. Swaraj will also be part of a high-level meet on UN reforms chaired by US president Donald Trump.

As the external affairs minister readies for a jam-packed week, we attempt to hypothesise what should be the larger talking points which Swaraj should discuss with the world leaders she is slated to meet on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

The Rogue Nation

North Korea is perhaps the most pressing issue.

According to this article in Firstpost, India's North Korea policy has undergone a marked shift recently, even to its own detriment. India has banned all trade with North Korea  except for food and medicine  even though it is one of the few countries with which India has a trade surplus.

India has also put an end to military, technical, scientific or economic exchanges. The Modi-Abe joint statement issued at the 13th India-Japan Summit also contained stronger language towards North Korea than last year, according to the report.

Swaraj will likely further commit New Delhi to Washington's cause of isolating the Kim Jong-un regime in the hopes that President Donald Trump will, in exchange for our help, crack down on Islamabad.

The Rohingya refugee crisis

With India constantly trying to guard its borders against huge influx of Rohingya refugees who are trickling in through the porous borders, Swaraj has a tough job at hand if the issue comes up in the General Assembly address. Swaraj will have to tread carefully.

On Thursday, she called Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to extend India's full support over the Rohingya issue. Swaraj also said that the Rohingya problem is not limited to Bangladesh alone, but has turned into a global matter, reported The Daily Star, a leading Bangladesh-based newspaper.

Swaraj has stated that India is putting pressure on Myanmar to take the refugees back, according to a report in NDTV. The Narendra Modi government has, steadfastly called Rohingya Muslims 'illegal', 'a threat to national security' and vowed to deport them. In fact, on Monday, Union Home Ministry on Monday filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court on Rohingya Muslims' deportation to Myanmar, calling them a "security threat to India"

However, the Centre is also seeking to curry favour with the Buddhist-majority nation of Myanmar to counterbalance China. According to this Firstpost report, India is developing a road which runs through Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar (BCIM), a 2,800 km-long corridor that starts from Kolkata and passes through Bangladesh and Myanmar before ending at Kunming in China.

Modi went to Nay Pyi Taw in November 2014, calling on former Myanmar president U Thein Sein, meeting Kyi and interacted with 300 members of the Indian community and Swaraj visited Nay Pyi Taw in 2014, according to a report in The Indian Express.

Expect Swaraj to strike a delicate balance during her remarks: To call for the world to act on the Rohingya crisis, even as she puts gentle pressure on Myanmar to take back the refugees.

Security Diamond and dialogue with the Dragon

Swaraj, who will meet Tillerson and Kono on Monday, will likely push for increased cooperation between the India-US-Japan-Australia 'Security Diamond', also known as the 'Quad'.

According to this Firstpost article, China's agreement to 'expeditiously disengage' at Doka La was based, in no small part, because it did not find support from any country. However, China's actions have also tested the strategic relationship between India and China.

While Japan openly sided with India, the US limited itself to stating that both sides needed to resolve the issue through dialogue. Walter Lohman, director of Heritage Foundations Asian Studies Centre, said that Washington's failure to condemn China over its Doka La actions will only strengthen her resolve to continue her aggression along the Himalayas.

India's stand-off at Doka La with China will likely be the impetus for this likely renewed focus on the Security Diamond.

China, which will be represented at the UNGA only at a foreign minister's level, NDTV reported. However, Swaraj is expected to keep New Delhi's line of communication open with Beijing as she attends several meetings of regional and specialised groups like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), the Non-aligned Movement, G4 (India, Brazil, Germany and Japan) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) NDTV reported.

Put Pakistan on notice

India has already indicated the tone it will take regarding Pakistan at the UNGA.

On Saturday, top Indian diplomat Syed Akbaruddin told reporters that Islamabad's decision to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN, which has not been discussed at the world body for decades, is narrow-minded and that India, on the other hand, is focused on progressive, forward-looking agenda.

Akbaruddin also ruled out a bilateral meeting between Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart. However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings including that of SAARC and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Expect Swaraj to follow up on Akbaruddin's comments and lay out India's agenda for the future, even as she takes potshots at Pakistan during her UNGA speech.

Swaraj has never been one to mince words regarding our neighbour, particularly at the United Nations.

In 2016, Swaraj slammed Pakistan in a powerful speech, calling it a "terrorist haven" and stating that India, despite extending a hand of friendship, only received terrorism in the form of Pathankot, Uri and Bahadur Ali in return.

"Jammu and Kashmir is a part of India and will always remain a part of India," she also stated unequivocally.

Responding to Nawaz Sharif's 2016 speech at the UNGA, she said, "People living in glass houses should not throw stone at others" and stated that brutalities against Balochis represented the worst form of oppression.
New York: Foreign ministers of India, Japan and the US on Monday emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, as they held a trilateral meeting in the backdrop of Doka La crisis and assertive Chinese behaviour.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the three leaders India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, US secretary of state Rex Tillerson and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono also exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

"The ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes," ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined," Kumar said in a statement.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea.

However, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

India and China last month ended a 73-day standoff in Doka La area of the Sikkim sector that was triggered by China's move to build a road in the border area.

Swaraj also deplored North Korea's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, Kumar said.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea early this month conducted its biggest nuclear test, which its state-run KCNA news agency described it as a hydrogen bomb.

The three ministers directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation, he said at the conclusion of the meeting.

Swaraj arrived in New York early on Monday to attend the 72nd annual session of the UN General Assembly. She is scheduled to address the United Nations on 23 September.

During her week-long stay here, she is likely to hold between 15-20 bilateral meetings in addition to several multilateral and trilateral meetings.

She is scheduled to have a series of other meetings on Monday including that with Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese prime minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics, and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US president Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN secretary general.
Namakkal: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswamy on Sunday accused AIADMK deputy general secretary and his rival in the party TTV Dhinakaran of "colluding with the opposition DMK" to topple his government.

Without naming Dhinakaran, who has been demanding his ouster as chief minister, Palaniswamy said, "Some are believing the DMK and making a miscalculation that they can

bring down this regime and break the party (AIADMK)."

The chief minister was addressing the gathering at the centenary celebrations of late chief minister and AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran, popularly known as MGR, in Namakkal in western Tamil Nadu.

Palaniswamy hit out at Dhinakaran, who claims the support of 21 of the 134 MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, alleging that he had "joined hands with a party that was considered as an evil force" by MGR.

"They (the Dhinakaran camp) are not bothered about this party (AIADMK) and the government," he said and added that it was not even appropriate to expect that from the rival faction as Dhinakaran was expelled from the AIADMK by "Amma" (late chief minister J Jayalalithaa).

"The almighty, which is Puratchi Thalaivi Amma, will punish them," he said.

Stating that "doubts" about his government's stability were raised from "day one" by political rivals, Palaniswamy said they "confused" the people by raking up such suspicions.

On the contrary, the government was going ahead smoothly and all the schemes for the people were being implemented, he added.

"What are the deficiencies that you have found in this government?" Palaniswamy asked the gathering and listed out the welfare measures initiated by his regime, including the Kudimaramathu initiative (an ancient practice of desilting waterbodies with participation from the common people and farmers) and distribution of laptops among students for free.

Attacking the DMK, without naming it, for its refrain that his regime had become a "slave" of the BJP-led central government, he said his government enjoyed a cordial

relationship with the Centre as only then the state could get the much-needed development schemes, new plans and fundings for the same.

The chief minister referred to the Japanese industrial township in the state, announced two days ago by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to drive home his point.

In a series of questions pointed at the DMK, he wanted to know what did it achieve on the "lifeline issues" of Tamil Nadu such as the Cauvery and Mullaperiyar during its over-a- decade-long stint at the Centre as part of various regimes.

He accused the main opposition party in the state of "only taking care of its family interests".

Deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam, in his address, likened the AIADMK faction, led by Palaniswamy and him, to a "mountain".

"The AIADMK is a mountain. If anyone bangs against it, his head will be shattered to pieces...this is a warning to the conspirators who are trying to topple this government," the former chief minister said.

Earlier in the day, Palaniswamy flagged off vehicles, marking the launch of "Swachhta hi Sewa" (Thooimaye Sevai Iyakkam), a cleanliness drive of the Centre, in seven

districts of the state at a function in Salem, his native district.

He also inaugurated a Rotavirus vaccination scheme for infants.

Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai, speaking at the centenary fete, said the "Navodaya" schools were about the "three-language formula", and asserted that the AIADMK would not waver from the two-language formula.

These comments of his came against the backdrop of opposition from various political parties to the opening of Navodaya schools in the state.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had recently directed the Tamil Nadu government to take a decision on issuing a no-objection certificate for opening the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in the state within eight weeks.

Following this, there was opposition to it from various political parties in the state, including the DMK, which claimed that it would lead to an "imposition" of the Hindi language.
The Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Assembly, P Dhanapal, has disqualified 18 MLAs loyal to TTV Dhinakaran, thereby significantly changing the political scenario in the state, media reports have stated.

18 MLAs backing TTV Dhinakaran disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal. pic.twitter.com/pJedJ3aOWK  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

ANI has also reported that Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P Vetrivel and K Mariappan are among those who have been disqualified.

The disqualified MLAs have already approached the Madras High Court challenging the Speaker's order, according to reports on Times Now and India Today.

Dhinakaran reiterated his stand that the EPS-OPS faction does not have the majority number of 117. He also said that they are now taking the escape route by expelling MLAs.

DMK working president MK Stalin has also taken issue with the disqualification as he told ANI that the disqualification 'is not right and has been done deliberately to reduce the majority of the house'.

Firstpost had earlier reported that Dhinakaran was apprehensive that such a disqualification could happen before Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami faces a trust vote. This disqualification has reduced the strength of the House, and could allow the chief minister to prove his majority in an Assembly where he is in a minority. The trust vote in February was won on the back of keeping 122 legislators locked for a week at the Koovathur resort, with allegations of bribery doing the rounds subsequently. Now this trust vote could be won through arithmetical jugglery.

The Madras High Court had earlier said that no trust vote can take place before 20 September. Justice M Duraiswami passed the interim order on petitions by Stalin and MLA P Vetrivel, a staunch loyalist of ousted AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran.

Citing pending disqualification proceedings against the MLAs loyal to Dhinakaran in view of their rebellion against Palaniswamy, the petitioners had submitted that they apprehended the Speaker might disqualify the legislators.

On Friday, the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court had ordered the Election Commission to dispose of the issues relating to the ruling AIADMK before 31 October, a former parliamentarian of the party had said.

"Hearing a petition, the court ordered the Election Commission to decide on all the issues relating to AIADMK before 31 October, 2017. I had impleaded as a party to a petition filed by another person," KC Palanisamy, former AIADMK parliamentarian, told IANS.

On 12 September, the AIADMK had cancelled the appointment of jailed VK Sasikala as party general secretary. The appointment of her nephew TTV Dhinakaran as deputy general secretary was also cancelled. The decision was announced at the AIADMK party general council.

Following the death of AIADMK general secretary and chief minister J Jayalalithaa, the party split into three factions. The Election Commission had frozen the party's 'two leaves' symbol due to competing claims for it. The EC decision now becomes extremely important as the two leaves symbol is recognised by most of Tamil Nadu as being associated with Jayalalitha and MG Ramachandran, reported India Today.
Eighteen AIADMK MLAs owing allegiance to rebel leader TTV Dhinakaran were on Monday disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal, giving the ruling side an edge in a show of strength which now seems imminent.

Governor C Vidyasagar Rao, who met President Ram Nath Kovind and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the national capital, is reaching Chennai on Tuesday morning and may issue orders summoning a special session of the Assembly for the chief minister to prove his majority.

Assembly Secretary K Boopathy said that after the disqualification under the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules 1986, the 18 MLAs have lost their membership of the House.

He also wrote to the Election Commission notifying the vacancies in the House after the disqualification.

With this, the effective strength of the 234-member House (where late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa's seat remains vacant) has come down to 215. And against a half-way mark of 109, Chief Minister E Palaniswamy claims to enjoy the support of 114 MLAs.

The DMK and its allies have 98 members.

The disqualified MLAs are: Thanga Tamilselvan, R Murugan, Cho Mariappan Kennedy, K Kathikamu, C Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P Palaniappan, V Senthil Balaji, S Muthiah, P Vetrivel, NG Parthiban, M Kothandapani, TA Elumalai, M Rengasamy, R Thangadurai, R Balasubramani, 'Ethirkottai' SG Subramanian, R Sundararaj and K Uma Maheshwari.

Though notices were issued by the Speaker initially to 19 AIADMK MLAs who took sides with Dinakaran, one of them, STK Jakkaiyan, shifted his loyalty to the chief minister.

The 18 MLAs have neither quit their party membership nor joined another political party, grounds on which an MLA can be disqualified.

A furious Dhinakaran told reporters that the Speaker's decision was a "shortcut" to gaining majority but said the matter will be taken to the Madras High Court on Tuesday.

"We are sure we will get a stay. Justice will triumph. Patience will win. Betrayal will never win," he said.

He said the fact that the government did not have majority was well known from last month and blamed the Governor for the current unpleasant situation. "After unseating the government, we will get a majority in the elections," Dhinakaran said.

He claimed he had the open support of 21 MLAs and 10 to 12 MLAs were "silently" with them.

Dhinakaran on Monday claimed that legislators supporting him would not have been disqualified had Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao acted on time on their plea against Palaniswamy.

"Because the governor made unnecessary delay despite knowing that Palaniswamy did not have the 117 magic number, such a murder of democracy has happened," he alleged.

Since 22 August, when 19 of the MLAs revolted against Palaniswamy and sought his removal with Rao, the governor was aware that the chief minister lacked the "magic number of 117", the simple majority in the 234-member House, he claimed.

One MLA later switched over to the Palaniswamy camp.

The combative Dhinakaran, engaged in a tussle for power with Palaniswamy, claimed initially MLAs of his camp had met the governor at his insistence and that later he himself had knocked on the doors of Rao.

"Such mishaps (Monday's disqualification of 18 MLAs) are happening due to the governor failing to maintain the dignity of his position," he told reporters.

Dhinakaran described as "murder of democracy" Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the 18 legislators owing allegiance to him and said he did not expect such an action from the former.

The Dhinakaran faction, besides Opposition including DMK, have been since urging Rao to direct a floor test of the Palaniswamy government.

People of all walks of life were opposing the disqualification of 18 MLAs, which amounted to "stifling democracy", he said.

He also said the BJP-led central government "should not close its eyes to this murder".

He claimed that some other AIADMK MLAs would also vote against the government during a possible floor test as they were against "betrayal".

"It is certain that Palaniswamy is going home. It will be known soon when it will happen," Dhinakaran added.

He said Palaniswamy had betrayed 'removed' party chief VK Sasikala, as it was she who had identified him as O Panneerselvam's successor, following the now deputy chief minister's rebellion in February.

He said Sasikala accepted the post of party general secretary only after "much pleading" by AIADMK leaders who conveyed to her the decision taken at its General Council last December following the death of her predecessor and then chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Dhinakaran said a situation to that of 1987 had come up, referring to the rebellion in the AIADMK following the death of party founder MG Ramachandran.

The party had split into two factions, each headed by Jayalalithaa and Ramachandran's widow Janaki.

Jayalalithaa, however, later managed to unify the different factions.

Dhinakaran also exuded the confidence of "attaining success" in "sending Palaniswamy home".

His loyalist MLA Thanga Tamilselvan said in Kodagu in Karnataka, where the MLAs are staying in a resort, that they were 100 per cent confident that they would get justice in court. They would not rest till the chief minister was removed, he said.

Palaniswamy said in Salem that nobody can succeed in toppling his government or splitting the AIADMK. His faction would restore the frozen election symbol of "Two Leaves" for itself, he said.

Last week, senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who appeared for the DMK on a petition seeking an immediate floor test in the Assembly, told the Madras High Court that he feared the Speaker could disqualify these MLAs and conduct a floor test to facilitate Palaniswami to prove his legislative majority.

The Opposition parties have been demanding that the government should prove its majority on the floor of the House after 19 legislators asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new chief minister.

DMK leader MK Stalin said on Monday that the Speaker's action amounted to "cruel murder" of democracy and was an attempt by the chief minister to take a shortcut to prove his majority in the Assembly.

The Madras High Court had ordered that a floor test should not be held till 20 September.

Stalin had claimed earlier that the Palaniswamy government has lost majority support after the legislators belonging to Dhinakaran group withdrew their support to Palaniswami. On Monday, Stalin asked both the Speaker and the chief minister to resign.

With inputs from agencies
BJP president Amit Shah appeared as a witness to defend former BJP minister Maya Kodnani at a Sessions Court in Ahmedabad. Kodnani, who is already convicted in the Naroda Patiya case, one of the worst in the 2002 riot case monitored by the Supreme Court-appointed SIT, wanted Shah as a witness for the trial in the Naroda Gaam case where 11 Muslims were murdered, 1 kilometre away from the Naroda Patiya.

Why Amit Shah chose to be a witness and defend Kodnani is probably to refute allegations that the BJP had left all the riot accused to fend for on their own especially their party leaders. Shah, in his statement in the court, backed Kodnani and said that they were not allowed in the postmortem room of the hospital and taken away by the police. 2017 being a crucial year for the BJP in election-bound Gujarat, the party is already facing an uphill task to retain Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state, this step is one such effort to send out a signal to its core votebank  the majority.

With Congress stepping up its attack on BJP with slogans like, 'vikas (development) has gone crazy,' the BJP is also on the backfoot on Patidar reservation issue as well. The party would obviously try everything to ensure to win the prestige battle.

The recent visit by Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe already established the fact BJP was on an election mode, but listing out party's achievements in the last two decades might not help BJP secure a guaranteed victory. The Patels led by their young leader Hardik Patel, who is addressing huge rallies in north and south Gujarat, is giving sleepless nights to BJP workers in the state.

Support for the Patel leader is indeed a concern for the BJP which witnessed buses being burnt in Surat  one of the strongholds of Patels.

In the wake of all the developments in Gujarat, Shah's decision to stand by his former colleague and defend her in the court of law, is an attempt to send a signal that the party has not left its veterans to fight on their own.

Kodnani, who comes from a strong RSS background, had been left to fight on her own (she is already convicted in one of the cases). Even the prime minister's visit to the house of party patriarch and former Gujarat chief minister, Keshubhai Patel to condole the death of his son was seen an attempt to send a signal that the seniors are still important to the party.

With Assembly elections just a few months away, tokenism might matter and the message is loud and clear from the top brass.

Click here for live updates on the case
Opposition parties in Kerala have alleged that the state Communist Paty of India (Marxist) unit might have received "bribes" from owners of liquor bars for the construction of the proposed EK Nayanar Academy in the northern district of Kannur.

Both Congress and BJP have questioned the genuineness of the Rs 20.84 crore that CPM claimed to have generated through bucket collection on a single day, stating that the funds might be a payment from owners of liquor bars for reversing the phased-prohibition initiated by the previous Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government.

Donations or bribe

Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala said that bulk of the fund might have come in the form of bribe that the party received through ministers for favours they may have given to various groups.

"It is not possible for any political party to collect such a huge amount through bucket collection on a single day in a tiny state like Kerala," the senior Congress leader said, adding, "The fund collected by the CPM may include bribes that the party received from owners of liquor bars for reversing the phased-prohibition initiated by the UDF government."

The fund was collected by all units of the party across the state on 19 August on the call of the state secretariat, which will be undertaking the construction of the academy in 3.74 acres of land at Payyambalam, the final resting place of the Nayanar, former chief minister of Kerala, and other senior leaders of CPM.

The party had collected Rs 6.25 crore through a similar bucket collection in 2005 to buy land for the proposed academy, which will house a historical museum  throwing light on the history and growth of the communist party and other revolutionary movements in the state  a reference library and a state-of-the-art convention centre.

The Congress also alleged that an unholy deal between the CPM and bar owners in Kerala had taken shape even before the state Assembly elections in April 2016. The deal was to reopen the bars closed by the previous government if the Left Democratic Front (LDF) came to power, the party had alleged. Many in Congress believe that bar owners had pumped in money to defeat the UDF government in the 2016 Assembly election.

Interestingly, the government headed by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has not only facilitated reopening of most of the closed bars despite a Supreme Court verdict banning liquor vends within 500 metres from state and national highways but also allowed new bars to come up across the state.

While the government has circumvented the apex court's order to renew licenses of closed bars by de-notifying several state highways passing through urban areas, it paved the way for opening of new bars by reducing the minimum distance limit of bars from schools and places of worship from 200 meters to just 50 meters and curtailing the powers of local bodies.

The Opposition leader termed the fund collection drive of the CPM as a tool to legitimise the ill-gotten money that the party received from bar owners.

BJP suspects misuse of power

The Bharatiya Janata Party has also viewed the CPM fund collection drive with suspicion.

"Political parties mostly collect funds from people by issuing receipts. Any amount of money collected by anybody without issuing a proper receipt can only be viewed with suspicion," BJP state general secretary MT Ramesh told Firstpost.

Ramesh said that he was surprised that the party was able to collect such huge funds only when it came to power in the state.

The BJP leader suspects a misuse of power behind the funds accumulated by CPM for the EK Nayanar Academy.

Left rubbishes allegations of bribe

CPM, however, has termed the allegations as "cheap". The amount collected is the contribution of 4.5 lakh party members and other well-wishers. The people of Kerala supported the drive wholeheartedly, said state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan.

He said that the collected amount was transferred to the trust through two bank accounts in Canara Bank and Indian Bank. He said that the party secretariat has decided to release complete details of the EK Nayanar Academy fund to clear doubts created in the minds of the people.

Controversy had surrounded the fund raising campaigns of the CPM in the past too. Similar questions were raised in 2008, when the party claimed that it had mobilized Rs 4.25 crore on a single day through bucket collection for establishing a school to educate party cadres on organisational matter in memory of party patriarch EMS Nampoothiripad.

The centre known as EMS Academy was set up in 60 acres of land on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram.

The party has also built memorials for martyrs and several other senior leaders like P Krishna Pillai, AK Gopalan, AP Varkey and Chadayan Govindan through similar bucket collections. All these are located in prime areas in cities and towns.

Bucket collection drives lack transparency

T Raveendran, coordinator of Kerala state chapter of the Association for Democratic Rights (ADR), says that a bucket collection is not a right way for raising funds as it lacks transparency. He told Firstpost that this method of fund collection was prevalent only in Kerala.

"Everything in the bucket collection is camouflaged. There is absolutely no transparency in the method. We have no mechanism to check the genuineness of the funds since it is difficult to verify the claims of the fund raisers," he added.

The party justifies the huge response to its fund collection campaigns saying that the workers, peasants and toiling masses were ready to donate from their meager income whenever the party calls for material support.

BJP does it too

Curiously, while BJP has criticised the legitimacy of CPM's bucket collection drive, the party itself had launched similar drive in May this year to bolster its financial base ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

In fact, the saffron party had given targets to its various committees even though the donation under bucket collection is normally voluntary. The BJP had asked its booth committees to collect a minimum of Rs 20,000, area committees Rs 2 lakh, constituency units Rs 10 lakh and district committee Rs 1 crore.

The BJP has not released the details of collected fund so far.

Taking a cue from these parties, several other organisations have also started raising funds in this way making bucket collection a unique method of fund collection in Kerala, where there are no major corporates.
Mumbai: After a video clip showing BJP leader Pasha Patel abusing a journalist at a press conference went viral, Latur police in Maharashtra on Sunday registered a case against him.

Patel, however, said it was a conspiracy against him.

The incident took place at Latur on Saturday.

The journalist, who is from a news channel, today filed a complaint against Patel under IPC sections 294 (uttering obscene words in public), 504 (intentional insult

with intent to provoke breach of peace) and 506 (criminal intimidation) at Vivekanand police station in the Latur city.

When asked for his comment, Patel, who is the head of agriculture price commission set up by the Maharashtra government, today said "this is a conspiracy against me by my rivals" and added that he would not tender apology.
Just as VIPs and political luminaries caught up on the wrong side of the law get cardiac problems the moment their arrest is imminent, so too does torrid tweets come with an attached apology. Of course Manish Tewari meant to be rude to the Prime Minister and insult him in his profanity-laced tweet.

In the aftermath, when it all went wrong and someone told him he should rescind probably because of legal reasons, he said he was only sorry for the expletives used and hoped it would all go away. Which is what is happening. These people say what they want, are totally out of line, and then when the crap hits the fan they trot out this hypocritical milky apology or an equal expression of regret and then expect the public to forget.

And the public does forget. Besides, there are no consequences for such blatant misuse of social platforms. Digvijay Singh, also of the Congress had only last week slandered Modi, and had also used foul language. He got away without even a slap on the wrist. The same is likely to happen with Tewari, who seems reluctant to even give a wholehearted retraction. What could be more rude after that ill mannered and coarse tweet than to say that you are willing to apologise. The word willing qualifies the contempt Tewari has for the chair of the Prime Minister and his smugness in knowing that after a bit of a troll typhoon for a day it will all go away and the original tweet will stand.

Tolerance in the public arises largely from the fact that so much muck is being abbreviated in 140 characters - thereby making it easy for anyone to dash off a message. After the length was relaxed last year and adding quotes, polls, videos, or image still allowed for text, the tedious nature of this imposition has increased.

Tewari sent off a video of Modi walking while the national anthem was playing during his trip to Russia. You have to be really mean and nasty to take a pot shot of this nature. For one it happened in 2015. For another the Russian official gave a signal with his hand which Modi interpreted as a moment to move and inspect the guard of honour. The second he realised his error he stood rigidly to attention. There was no disrespect on his part. So why make such a noise about it?

The other factor now is that tweets have masquerades. You can put a faux VIP name and then say what you like. For example, Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi, tweeted an anti-Indian article link and was castigated. Someone pretending to be him could do worse by simply adding a prefix like false or fake.

As a result of these deceptions and the deluge from trolls and bloggers, those in power, and supposedly endowed with a greater sense of responsibility, find refuge in numbers and get away with it because no one has the time to sift the wheat from the chaff.

The tweet per se was first begun in the Indian political firmament in 2009 by Shashi Tharoor, though he has learnt the hard way that tweets can bite you in the butt. After his wifes death the tweet world exploded and still sizzles. Tharoors last major fling was against Arnab Goswami and created a whirlpool within an eddy by his using the word farrago.

In Tweetland mediocrity and sheer stupidity often reign supreme. A man named Shiv Narayan Yadav and claiming to be an RJD leader, justified killing of 18 soldiers in the Uri attack. Modi himself was guilty of crassness when he attacked Sunanda Pushkar in a pre-election rally calling her a Rs 50 crore girlfriend. Sexist comments rear their ugly head underscoring the thriving misogyny. Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam once said to Smriti Irani words to the effect that you are now a political analyst, you used to be a dancer on TV. And the 'unwilling' Tewari went for another cheap shot at Modi when he tweeted that the prime minister was following people who were celebrating the killing of journalist Gauri Lankesh. So what.

Know what the enemy is doing. That was smart on Modis part.
News / National

by Stephen Jakes

A ZIMBABWEAN man is standing trial after he was arrested last month for allegedly insulting some Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers, whom he accused of depositing funds collected from members of the public through corrupt means.Zephania Virimai, (32) who resides in Tshovani high-density suburb in Chiredzi in Masvingo province, was arrested on 01 August 2017 and charged with undermining police authority as defined in Section 177 (b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 09:23.Prosecutors claimed that Virimai, who is represented by Blessing Nyamaropa of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, undermined police authority after he allegedly insulted two ZRP officers namely Lazarus Nyahonzo and Slyna Nyamaropa, who were depositing some cash at a CBZ bank branch in Chiredzi collected by the ZRP in its policing operations.Nyahonzo and Nyamaropa reportedly entered the CBZ bank branch intending to lodge money into the bank. Upon entering the bank, the ZRP officers were instructed by Kazamula Mudhungazi, a security officer at the CBZ bank to proceed to till number 2 to deposit the cash.The ZRP officers reportedly started retrieving cash from a bag and that is when Virimai allegedly started insulting the law enforcement agents by saying "Mbavha idzo ngadzibvepo, which prosecutors translated to mean "Thieves move away from there".After realising that Nyahonzo and Nyamaropa were unmoved by the alleged insult, Virimai reportedly intensified the verbal attacks on the ZRP officers by saying "Zvimapurisa zvinobhenga mari yecorruption", which prosecutors translated to mean "Rogue police officers who bank corruption money".Prosecutors charged that because of Virimai's conduct, there was a real risk of engendering feelings or hostility towards such police officers or the police force or exposing the ZRP officers to contempt, ridicule or low esteem.Virimai, whose trial commenced on Thursday 14 September 2017 before Chiredzi Magistrate Tafadzwa Mhlanga, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges of undermining police authority, returns to court on Wednesday 04 October 2017 for continuation of his trial.
Editor's Note: This copy was originally published on 30 August 2012, when Maya Kodnani was convicted for her involvement in the Naroda Patiya case. The Gujarat High Court acquitted Kodnani of all charges on Friday, while upholding the conviction of Bajrang Dal leader Babu Bajrangi. This piece is being republished in light of recent developments.

A gynaecologist who was always more keen on politics than on her medical practice, Maya Kodnani's fall from being a poster girl for the RSS in the state after being implicated in the 2002 Naroda Patiya massacre has been rapid and had finally ended in tears on 29 August 2012.

Kodnani achieved infamy when she became the first woman and sitting MLA to be convicted for her involvement in the 2002 massacre in the Naroda Patiya area of Ahmedabad in which 97 people were killed in broad daylight.

An Indian Express report speaks about how Kodnani, the daughter of a staunch RSS worker who immigrated to India due to Partition, studied in a Gujarati medium school and joined the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti before entering Baroda Medical College where she became a doctor.

Kodnani had set up a maternity hospital in Kubernagar in Naroda, but then quickly began her political ascent with victories in the Ahmedabad civic elections in 1995 and by 1998 she had become an MLA.

In 2002 during the communal riots that engulfed Ahmedabad following the burning of the Sabarmati Express at Godhra, Kodnani was accused of instigating the rioters, firing a pistol and even distributing arms that she had transported to Naroda in her car.

However, the minister denied the claims and said she had been attending the State Assembly at the time was caught out by statements of witnesses and mobile phone records that showed she was in Naroda at the time of the violent riot.

Dildar Umrav Saiyed, a witness said that he was working at his garage, testified in court that he had seen the BJP leader distribute a bundle of sharp weapons. He said was offered money not to testify against the rising leader and even faced attacks

"I was offered lakhs of rupees but I refused, Dildar was quoted as saying in a Telegraph report.

It wasn't hard to see why. Kodnani's star was on the rise after the riots. Mentored by none less than party patriarch LK Advani, she won the 2002 elections that followed the brutal riots by a thumping majority and by 2007 had been elevated to MoS for women and child development.

However, in 2009 when the Supreme Court appointed SIT summoned her for questioning in the case she refused to appear before them and was declared an absconder. After hiding, ironically accompanied by her police guard, Kodnani finally surrendered and resigned from the ministerial post.

She was then arrested but later released on bail by the high court. And with it came to an end the fiery oratory.

"I believe what happened in 2002 riots was wrong and I have sympathy for the victims, whether they are Muslims or Hindus," she was quoted as saying in an interview while in relative political wilderness.

"I regularly attend the court hearings from morning till the end of the proceedings. Then I come to my clinic to attend patients and people who expect help from me," she said.

However, as the verdict approached, the doctor remained largely absent from the maternity nursing home, choosing to instead spend more time in the state Assembly and appearing for the court hearings.

When the verdict was announced, Kodnani was asked by the court if she had anything to say, she said the charges against her were politically motivated. She and her husband, who is also a doctor, were in tears when she was convicted. Kodnani's lawyers have opposed the prosecution's plea for capital punishment on the grounds that her husband was not in good health and her son was studying abroad.

And as the court sentenced her to 28 years in jail, it perhaps also spelt the death of the political career of the fiery orator, who will spend a long time in prison cell.
With Gujarat heading for crucial elections at the end of this year, the Sardar Sarovar Dam is expected to a major issue for political maneuvering throughout the state.

However, it will be an especially major issue for Saurashtra, and with good reason.

Last month, Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani proclaimed that with the completion of the project, Saurashtra's water shortage would be a thing of the past, according to a report in The Times of India.

Saurashtra is characterised by low rainfall and high political opportunity. The dry region in the western part of Gujarat has the highest number of Assembly seats.

According to this Firstpost report, as the Patel community is dominant in these districts, the ruling BJP will leave no stone unturned to woo the disgruntled community.

The Opposition Congress, on the other hand, will hope to use the resentment of the Patel quota agitation to its advantage, according to the report.

But the focus on Saurashtra is not driven by political considerations alone. The region's environmental characteristics also bear out the water crisis present in the region.

The SAUNI (Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation Yojana) is a project that appears to have deeply impacted this part of the state. The project aims to fill up 115 dams in Saurashtra with the excess run-off from the Sardar Sarovar Dam, according to a report in The Hindu.

With the completion of the project, a large number of people who had left the region due to agricultural distress have returned, according to the the article.

For instance, a resident of the region was quoted as saying that while villagers mostly cultivated cotton in the kharif season, they would now also be able to cultivate sugarcane or wheat in the rabi season. Sugarcane and wheat are highly water-intensive crops.

The SAUNI project will distribute the water of the river Narmada to 115 reservoirs of 11 districts of Saurashtra, as per a description of the scheme on the website of the Gujarat government.

The distribution is planned to take place through four link pipelines.

As Gujarat is a state characterised by low rainfall, water supply to cities as well as rural areas is a major worry for the people.

Penning an op-ed in The Wire, Medha Patkar from the Narmada Bachao Andolan mentions some of these issues.

She claimed that the canal network in Gujarat remains at less than 50 percent, water meant for the desert region of Kutch has been diverted to the Sabarmati riverfront and water meant for farmers has been allocated to industries.

In such a context, the Sardar Sarovar Dam could well bring a major change in the ecology of arid Saurashtra.
After a 54-year-long delay, the Sardar Sarovar Dam was finally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. However, the prime minister's comment that the dam faced numerous hurdles, did not go down well with the Congress, which called the inauguration an "election gimmick."

While addressing a rally at the Dam site, Modi had said that no other project in the world has faced so many hurdles as this "engineering miracle" which many people had "conspired to stop".

Modi, after dedicating the dam to the nation on his 67th birthday, said, "Many false allegations were hurled on us. Many people conspired to stop this project. But we were determined not to take make it a political battle."

"I have knowledge ('kacha chittha') of everyone who tried to stall this project, but I will not name them as I do not want to go on that route," Modi said.

"A massive misinformation campaign was launched against the project. The World Bank which had earlier agreed to fund the project, refused to give loan for it raising environmental concerns. But, with or without the World Bank, we completed the massive project on our own," he said.

However, the Congress hit out at the prime minister after the dam's inauguration. The party's media in-charge Randeep Surjewala said Modi had indulging in "misconceived electoral hype, hyperbole and hoopla by yet again inaugurating the Sardar Sarovar Dam".

"Using the worlds second largest dam built by efforts of Congress party and people of Gujarat as an electoral gimmick has become the centrepiece of BJP's 'Gujarat Model': for this is the only tangible project that would ameliorate peoples conditions, when actually completed," he said.

"The rest of the 'Gujarat Model' is engrained with fakery, doublespeak, fallaciousness and falsehood. The BJP is ruling Gujarat since the past 22 years and not even 20 percent of the canal network, creating minors and sub-minors, has been completed," he said in a statement.

Surjewala said the dam reservoir has water but it cannot reach the fields of the needy farmers in the absence of the canal network.

Claiming that the BJP and Modi government have failed the beneficiaries, he said, the Narmada project in Gujarat remains incomplete even though BJP is in power for the last 22 years, out of which Modi was chief minister for 14 years.

The Congress leader said despite stumbling blocks and challenges, it is only the Congress that strived for the completion of Narmada Valley project.

He accused the BJP of being "incompetent and insensitive" and said it has failed the people of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan, the beneficiary states.

From the laying of the foundation stone by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961 up till 1987, when its construction work was stalled for environmental reasons and litigations, there were a multitude of insurmountable road blocks, he said, adding that under leadership of the then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi each blockade was cleared conscientiously and 90 percent of the work was approved for completion.

Interestingly, the party also published a Twitter poll under its #Knowyourlegacy initiative, which read like a political statement to counter the BJP.

Which Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Sardar Sarovar Dam project? #KnowYourLegacy  Congress (@INCIndia) September 18, 2017

He said water has reached only three lakh hectares out of the planned irrigation of 19 lakh hectares, and asked whether the BJP government and Modi will apologise to Gujarat farmers.

He said only 18,803 kilometres of canal network was constructed in the 22 years of BJP rule against planned length of 90,389 kilometres.

At a time when the project is not even complete, keeping in mind the upcoming elections, the BJP has launched another yatra: Narmada Mahotsav Yatra, which the people of Gujarat have "strongly rejected" by staging protests along the route, he said.

"This is a befitting reply that the people of Gujarat - especially the farmers - are giving to the BJP for its unpardonable apathy and non-performance," he said.

Surjewala alleged there is "rampant corruption" in the Narmada Nigam and funds are being diverted. He claimed CAG, the government auditor, has confirmed it.

"What action have you taken after the exposure of rampant corruption, maladministration and misuse of funds in Narmada Nigam? Why is the BJP shielding the corrupt?" he asked.

The Congress leader said the people of Gujarat are "disillusioned" with the "insensitive 'suit-boot' policies" of the successive BJP governments and the leadership of PM Modi that thrive on "full publicity and zero delivery".

With inputs from PTI
tech2 News Staff

After Google, now Bing has added a fact-checking label. This label will help users with fact-checking information given in news stories and articles which appear on the Bing search results.

According to Bings blog, the fact-checking label would be applicable to news results, webpages, and information. This would help them in checking the trustworthiness of the information provided.

The label would allow the user to fact-check the sources, also know which information is true or false.

In order to label news information with this tag, the user has to be certain that their work meets the criteria asked by the search engine. This includes, transparency and citation. Moreover, it also suggests that the claims made must be easily identifiable within the body of fact-checking sites.

Also it takes help from third-party organisations, like Snopes or PolitFact and other fact-checking organisations.

In the process of fact-checking, after every news article it gives the verdict as true or false.

However, Bing did mention that it has its own review system which requires users putting up news articles to fill up certain criteria so as to be certain of the credibility of news information. However, it also said that Bing may or may not show a verdict for every news article. This means not all articles will be shown with the fact-checking mark, leaving the credibility factor hanging.

Off late fake news has become a problem for most of the news organisations and consumers of news as well. Thus, Google began attacking fake news in late December after several embarrassing examples of misleading information appeared near the top of its search engine. Among other things, Google's search engine pointed to a website that incorrectly reported then President-elect Donald Trump had won the popular vote in the US election, that President Barack Obama was planning a coup and that the Holocaust never occurred during World War II.

Learning from the US Presidential elections 'fake news' fiasco, Facebook had rolled out a tool to help Kenyan users spot fake news ahead of a hotly-contested presidential election that had seen supporters of rival candidates trade bitter words online.
tech2 News Staff

Apple iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus are set to be launched in India on 29 September at 6 pm. The launch will take place in nine cities which including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune and Hyderabad.

The launch event for consumers will take place in leading malls. Industry executives, who spoke to the Economic Times said that they are targeting around 10,000 retailers. Looking at increasing its sales especially with Dussera and Diwali round the corner, the pre-booking will start from 22 September.

According to the Economic Times report, the Cupertino-based company will begin advertising campaigns from 18 September on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. An Apple India spokesperson who spoke to the ET said, This is the earliest iPhone has ever been available for customers in India.

Company officials have indicated they will increase the number of in-shop promotions during the launch phase and are extremely bullish about a positive response considering this year the new iPhone will get the full festive season benefit of both Dusshera and Diwali unlike just Diwali in earlier years, said one executive who spoke to ET.

The Apple iPhone 8 64 GB costs Rs 64,000 while the 256 GB variant will be available for Rs 77,000. The Apple iPhone 8 Plus starts at Rs 73,000 for 64 GB variant and Rs 86,000 for the 256 GB variant.

The Apple iPhone 8 Plus comes with a 12 MP dual camera setup, while iPhone 8 comes with a 12 MP single camera.

The two models iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus were launched alongside iPhone X and Apple Watch series 3 on 12 September at Steve Jobs Theatre at Cupertino. The event marked ten years since the first iPhone was launched.
Boses QuietComfort 35 II is expected to come with a built-in Google Assistant.

Rumours about Google Assistant-powered headphones have been doing the rounds online for quite a while now. Codenamed Bisto, it was first being discussed online in April on the beta version of the Google app (v7.0). According to the code mentioned in the report it was expected to support headphones.

Now, as per the recent leaks posted on AndroidPolice, Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones will come powered with Google Assistant. This headphone will be priced at $349.99. The headphones, as of now, comes in two variants which were first leaked on Reddit as per AndroidPolice. These are in silver and black colour variants.

According to the leaked picture, the headphone support noise cancellation and offer noise reduction while taking calls.

Look what I found early .... Bose QC 35 II pic.twitter.com/vq2zXDDb2A  Jeremy Judkins (@jeremyjudkins) 16 September 2017

While nothing much has been said about Google Assistant's functions on headphones, previous reports suggest that you can ask the Assistant questions through the microphone section and get answers via the headphones. Users would be able to answer via voice commands.

The report was further confirmed in the leaked photographs which showed the headphone packaging. The package gives more insights into how the Assistant could work with the Bose QC 35II: With your Google Assistant built in, you can control music, send & receive texts, and get answers using just your voice. Just press and hold the Action button, and start talking.

According to reports, the Google Assistant enabled Bisto headphones could run on Android Wear. Considering the Google Pixel 2 smartphones are expected in October, and there are rumours of a mini Google Home and a Chromebook Pixel also launching on the same day, it wouldn't be a stretch to imagine that Bisto would also be announced at the same time.
IANS

Following several deadly terror attacks in Britain over the past six months, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May is set to urge Facebook and Google to perk up their efforts in cracking down on online radicalisation.

May will demand tougher action to combat online radicalisation at a showdown in New York this week, The Mirror reported late Sunday. "In a 15-minute speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, she will call on leaders and tech giants to help halt the spread of poisonous material that is warping young minds," a UK official official was quoted as saying.

She will then host talks on tackling extremism with Facebook, Microsoft and Google alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. Last week, as many as 30 people were injured in an explosion which occurred at the Parsons Green subway station in West London, of which the Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility.

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said that Britain's terrorism threat level has been lowered from "critical" to "severe" after being raised to the highest possible in the wake of the Friday explosion.

Rudd made the statement on Sunday after British police arrested two suspects in connection of the explosion in a packed rush-hour carriage on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.
tech2 News Staff

Google is celebrating the 308th birth anniversary of the father of the modern dictionary  Samuel Johnson. Johnson is renowned for creating the English language's most comprehensive dictionary back in the 1750s.

The Google Doodle shows an animation of a dictionary, which opens up to reveal an entry called Lexicographer. The rolling text animation on top of the image then goes on to describe the word as "A writer of dictionaries; a harmless drudge that busies himself in tracing the original and detailing the signification of words".

Johnson was born in 1709 and had worked for around nine years to come up with the 'Dictionary of the English Language' which was published in 1755. This was the dictionary that was the most popular one till the Oxford English Dictionary was completed by 1928.

Johnson's dictionary had over 42,000 entries and it was considered to be the most comprehensive achievement of scholarship back in the day. It provided valuable insights into the language and culture of 18th century.

Johnson's dictionary was 18-inches tall. It was the most used dictionary till the Oxford English Dictionary came about almost 150 years later. Apart from being a lexicographer, Johnson was also a poet, critic, biographer and editor.

The use of physical dictionaries is on the decline, thanks to search engines such as Google itself and the app variants of dictionaries. While Google was a made up word, Doodle does exist in Johnson's dictionary on page 638. But unlike today, Doodle meant 'an idler' or 'trifler'.
tech2 News Staff

Google Flights has tied up with Cleartrip as a part of its expansion plans in India. This is Googles fourth partnership after Vistara, Jet Airways, and travel portal Via.com.

In a report by The Economic Times, the head of air and distribution at Cleartrip, Balu Ramachand, said that this would allow their flight prices to be accessible on Google's platform.

Vikas Agnihotri, industry director, Google India said, For Googlethis partnership with Cleartrip is important as it helps expand our offering and provides consumers with another way to conveniently plan and book their travel.

Google Flight is essentially used to search flights across carriers as well book hotels.

A top executive whose company has partnered with Google said, "One advantage with Google Flights is that it allows the listed supplier to retain ownership of the customer. This means the supplier charges insurance tariffs, etc. and, more importantly, retains intelligence and data such as travel and booking patterns of the customer. This doesn't happen in case of booking through an OTA (online travel agency)."

Details about the tie-up are yet to be revealed.

Last year, Google had added the alert feature, where if a particular flight route is selected, then Google will notify the user in case of price changes. Google Flights notifies its users about the expected difference in ticket prices, and provides a time window within which the booking can be done before the prices go up.

If users looking at a particular route, have not yet selected a flight, then Google also displays helpful cards that prompt users into making better decisions.
Nimish Sawant

Google has officially released its mobile payments app for the Indian market  Google Tez. The name of the app, translating to fast, is available on the Play Store as well as the Apple App Store. This is Google's first big foray into mobile payments in India. Tez will work with all banks that support Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which is backed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). There is a separate Tez for Business app as well, which is meant for businesses to receive payments from their customers.

The Google Tez app will let you send to and receive money from friends, link up your bank accounts to your phone to pay for goods online as well as in physical stores and more. According to app description on the Google Play Store page you can, "Send money to friends, instantly receive payments directly to your bank account and pay the nearby cafe with Tez, Google's new digital payment app for India. Using NPCI's (National Payments Corporation of India) Unified Payments Interface (UPI), money transfers are simple and secure with Tez."

One of the interesting feature is called Tez Cash, which lets you make or receive payments from anyone nearby without sharing your personal details such as phone number or bank accounts. You can also pay and set reminders for paying recurring bills such as DTH or phone bills and so on.

Tez is not a mobile wallet in the same vein as a Paytm however. There is no option to store money in a wallet as such on the Tez app. Your wallet is in essence your UPI connected bank account. Tez supports most of the banks such as ICICI, Axis, State Bank of India, HDFC, among others.

According to Techcrunch, there is a limit of Rs 1,00,000 on the transaction amount in one day and you can do up to 20 transactions in a day. Google has also trademarked the name for countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines.

For business users having a current account associated with Tez business app, the limit is Rs 50,000 per month with UPI and no fees. After this limit, the bank will charge its respective fees.

You can also pay someone who does not have a Tez app, but has a valid UPI address. You will need to add the person's UPI address to your address book before making the payment.

Tez offers language support for English, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu.

Here's how Google Tez works

We downloaded the app and gave it a spin. And it seems to be a user-friendly one for sure. Here are the steps you will need to go through to get the Tez app up and running on your Android or Apple smartphones.

Registration: First of all, you will have to select your language of choice from the eight languages including seven regional ones. You then choose your Google account that will be locked to the app  preferably the account which you have with your banks, but that is not a necessity. Then you add in the phone number which is associated with your banks. This is important as you cannot add a phone number which your bank does not have.

Security: You can secure the Tez app with a pattern lock, pin lock or a finger print. 'Tez Sheild' is a Google powered multi-layered security feature which ensures data security on the app.

Cash Mode: Once this is done, you enter the simple user interface of the Tez app. The major portion of the app is occupied by the 'Tap for Cash Mode' button which has a Tez logo. On tapping it, you will see two options Pay and Receive, and you can select either one depending on whether you are making a payment or receiving it. It will search for devices nearby and show up the details of the person. Once you verify that it is indeed the person you want to pay (or receive money from), you will be prompted with a screen to enter the payment amount (or get a notification once you receive a payment), followed by the UPI pin entry. After that the payment is made instantly.

I did face issues transferring money to my colleague on his iPhone, but vice versa worked fine. When I tried sending money to a friend from my contact list, who does not have the Tez app, the app prompted me saying "This person hasn't added a bank account. We've sent a reminder".

Payments mode: When you tap on the Ruppee symbol present in the bottom half of the device, it will show you a list of contacts who have Tez installed on their phones.

Offers: To ensure more people get on the app, Tez is offering you and your friend (who is not on Tez) Rs 51 to get on the app. The Rs 51 will be paid to you when your friend make their first payment.

Rewards: Apart from this Offer tab, there is another tab called Rewards, which will pay you for making payment transactions using Tez.

It is still early days on the app and a lot of my friends are yet to get on the app. I will update this story as and when more people come onboard and I get to try the app out for different use cases. So far I do not see any dedicated businesses which are eligible for recurring payments such as my phone service provider or electricity bill provider in the Tez app. Google has partnered with services such as RedBus, PVR Cinemas, Domino's Pizza, DishTV and Jet Airways as launch partners and the Tez payment mode will be active in these apps.

Also there wasn't any interface to add in Debit or Credit card details, in case you want to pay via those means.

But so far it seems to be like a quick way of making and receiving payments, keeping in line with the UPI philosophy. Knowing Google, expect mass promotions of this app in the coming days.

You can download the Google Tez app on the Play Store and the App Store.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The MDC Alliance has threatened to stage protests against proclaimed dates for voter registration, arguing that the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) is unprepared for the process.This comes after President Robert Mugabe said in an official government notice that the Zec would start registering voters on September 14 and would end the process on January 15 next year.MDC Alliance spokesperson Jacob Ngarivhume said they are pursuing legal process to challenge the proclamation, but if that fails, they will go into the streets and demonstrate.The MDC Alliance was formed last month at the historic Zimbabwe Grounds, where veteran opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai sealed an electoral pact with seven political parties that include formations which sprung out of the MDC in 2005 and 2014, namely Welshman Ncube's MDC and Tendai Biti's People's Democratic Party (PDP) to challenge Mugabe in next year's crunch elections."The proclamation is illegal, we are going to pursue legal route and we are also going to protest. We know that this is the beginning of rigging," Ngarivhume told the Daily News after the Kadoma workshop where Tsvangirai was taken sick."In our workshop, serious concerns were raised over the launching of BVR voter registration by Zec with only 400 of the 3 000 kits available, including no clarity on the status of the servers for data storage."A strategy and roadmap to the 2018 elections was discussed and agreed. The alliance partners agreed to continue fighting for electoral reforms for the 2018 election to be credible, free and fair."Ngarivhume said the partners agreed to continuously engage on issues pertinent to the health and well-being of the alliance as a matter of principle."The workshop presented a great opportunity for the team as a trust or confidence building exercise between alliance partners, synergising on areas of strength."It was agreed that 2018 is a watershed election and as such the Alliance forged a watershed strategy and implementation matrix to match."We will continue to fight for electoral reforms ahead of next year's elections. Recommendations from the workshop will be tabled at the next principals' meeting for adoption next week," Ngarivhume said.
tech2 News Staff

It's another day and the there's another bunch of leaks revealing a few more details about the much-rumoured Nokia 9 flagship from HMD. This time around, there is not just a leaked schematic, but a fan made render that gives us a better idea as to what this upcoming device will look like.

The leaked schematic comes from a Baidu forum, and reveals the size comparison between the recently leaked out entry-level Nokia 2 and premium flagship Nokia 9. While the Nokia 2 outline looks very similar to a recent leak, the Nokia 9 looks a bit different.

The smartphone appears broader, not taller and appears to have a 3D curved glass on the back. This is similar to what most manufacturers have been following since Samsung came up with the Galaxy S7 edge.

The outline reveals a smartphone with a dual camera setup at the rear, accompanied by what appears to be a quad-LED flash. Below the flash, sits a fingerprint reader, which has moved from the front to the back because of the expected edge-to-edge display. Other details reveal the volume rocker and power button on the left side of the device.

Another leak coming from a Twitter tipster, hints reveals a render of the device, that looks very close to the Baidu leak. The render which has been created by the tipster himself, showcases the front of the device as well as the rear. While the rear looks similar to the Baidu leak, the front has more similarities to the Nokia 8 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. There are ultra-thin-bezels on the left and right, while the top and bottom showcases bezels that appear similar to the stuff we have on the Galaxy Note 8.

The device according to previous reported rumours is expected to feature a QHD 5.3-inch display, a Snapdragon 835, 4 GB RAM and cameras from the outgoing Nokia 8. Again, these cannot be confirmed as most of the details from the earlier leak seems to have already appeared on the Nokia 8. The Nokia 9, if anything, should at least be an upgrade from the Nokia 8.
tech2 News Staff

Sony Mobile India has started sending out invites to the media inviting them to a launch event on 25 September. While the device in question has not been specified a teaser in the invite reveals bits of the Xperia XZ1.

The Sony Xperia XZ1 along with its smaller sibling the Xperia XZ1 Compact and the phablet-sized XA1 Plus were announced together at the recent IFA Berlin. The XZ1 that is expected to launch in India on 25 September is the company's current flagship offering and comes with some interesting hardware bits.

There's a 5.2-inch Triluminous full HD display with a layer of Gorilla Glass 5 on the top. Below it sits a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 chipset paired with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB internal storage.

As for the cameras, Sony has stuck with a single lens system as opposed to the dual camera setup used by most manufacturers today. The primary camera consists of a 19 MP Motion Eye camera featuring a 1/2.3-inch Exmor RS mobile memory stacked sensor.

Moving to the front-facing camera, the Sony Xperia XZ1 gets a bigger 13 MP sensor. The device comes with the usual stack of connectivity options found on flagships smartphones.

Hardware aside, Sony seems to be the first smartphone manufacturer to offer Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box. This is a big deal as most of the flagship smartphones released this year in India are still stuck on Android Nougat with many promising upgrades to Android Oreo.

Over the years, Sony has refused to launch the Compact or 'mini' version of its flagship devices. So we aren't expecting them to launch the Xperia XZ1 Compact model this year either.
IANS

In a unique initiative, Gender Alliance Bihar, a collective effort of over 270 civil society organisations backed by the UN Population Fund, has come up with a mobile application to fight the rampant social evil of child marriage in the state.

Launched by Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, the "Bandhan Tod" app will try to create awareness on resisting child marriage and will also provide round-the-clock help to adolescent girls saying no to the practice in the form of an SOS button.

The Gender Alliance is an initiative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and was started to bring together civil societies, activists, academicians, researchers, media, and others on a common platform to advocate gender equality.

"Use of latest technology like a mobile app is probably the first of its kind in the country to fight child marriage," Nadeem Noor, head of UNFPA in Bihar, told IANS.

He said the app offers innovative features that will give girls the confidence to stand up against marriage before they are 18, the legal marriagable age for girls in India, adding its unveiling ahead of the formal launch of the statewide campaign against child marriage by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Mahatma Gandhi's birthday (2 October) was a positive development.

"If the state government includes the app in its campaign, it will help us popularise it down to the village level with the wide network of thousands of women self-help groups active in rural Bihar," he said.

Bandhan Tod is part of Gender Alliance's strategy to support the state government's efforts to end child marriage and dowry.

"It is a rare effort of civil society, and the first of its kind in Bihar, to support the state government's commitment to end child marriage and dowry," Gender Alliance convener Swapan Mazumdar said.

The app was also lauded by N. Vijayalakshmi, Managing Director, Women Development Corporation.

It will be available on Google Play Store and anyone can register on it with their details  name, age, block, district and mobile number. Mobikwik, a digital payment gateway, will provide incentive to users who download it.

If the SOS button is pressed, the registered mobile number and other details of the user will be sent to the Gender Alliance monitoring cell and civil society organisations, who will contact the user to get details and then alert the local authorities for action.

Given the socio-economic and cultural context within which child marriage takes place, the campaign will aim to directly and indirectly reach out to girls at the village and panchayat levels in all the blocks and districts of Bihar through technology.

Gender Alliance stressed on the dire need and urgency to match this commitment with coordinated strategies, action and resources to end child marriages as well as early marriages in Bihar.

It has also extended support of the hundreds of civil society organisations, that are part of the initiative, to the state government in its fight against child marriage.

"Bandhan Tod mobile app will complement the Bihar government's campaign against child marriage," said Prashanti Tiwary, Manager of Gender Alliance.

Since its inception last year, Gender Alliance has focused its work on gender equity. Keeping this in consideration, it has also identified child marriage as one of the four priority issues as it is not only a violation of human rights, but a grave threat to the lives, health and development of girls.

Child marriage is rampant in Bihar, particularly in rural areas, despite laws against it. It is a big social problem among Dalits, OBCs and Muslims due to lower literacy rates and other factors, including poverty.

Till a few years ago, Bihar accounted for 69 per cent of child marriages of total marriages. But the latest National Family Health Survey-4 revealed that the figure has declined in Bihar in the last 10 years due to increase of education among girls.

Gender Alliance will soon come out with a ground reality report on the adolescent girls' social, education and health status in every block and district.

"This in-depth report is likely to provide ready-made data for the government to use for different scheme implementations to achieve its goals in a time-bound manner," Mazumdar said.

Gender Alliance has announced the Bandhan Tod award for journalism for mainstreaming gender in media and awarded adolescent girls with Bandhan Tod champion title to recognise their brave role in the fight against child marriage.
Islamabad: The Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) on Monday challenged an anti-terrorism court's verdict which had set five Pakistani Taliban suspects free and declared former military ruler Pervez Musharraf an absconder in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case.

Bhutto, the 54-year-old PPP chief and a two-time prime minister, was killed along with more than 20 people in a gun and bomb attack in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh during an election campaign rally on 27 December 2007.

The anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi had set free five Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) suspects citing lack of evidence. The court had also ordered authorities to confiscate Musharraf's properties and declared him an absconder.

PPP's senior advocate Latif Khosa filed three appeals in the Rawalpindi bench of the Lahore High Court against the 31 August verdict.

In one of the appeals, he asked the court to try and convict Musharraf, in absentia, if he had failed to comply with the arrest warrant issued by the court.

Khosa said that Bhutto, in one of her letters, had declared that Musharraf would be held responsible in case she was killed.

In a second appeal, the PPP lawyer asked the court to change the sentence of two police officers into death sentence.

Saud Aziz was police chief of Rawalpindi Khurram while Shahzad was Superintendent of Police when Bhutto was assassinated in 2007.

In the third appeal, the PPP sought death sentence for the five TTP militants  Rafaqat Hussain, Husnain Gul, Sher Zaman, Aitzaz Shah and Abdul Rashid.

Benazir, daughter of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was the first woman prime minister of any Muslim country to be assassinated.
Washington: Donald Trump Jr will testify publicly before a congressional committee probing Russia's meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign and possible collusion by his father's campaign, a Democratic senator said.

"Well, it will be this fall. I know that for sure," Senator Dianne Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in an interview with CNN.

It would be the first public testimony on the Russia affair by a member of President Donald Trump's inner circle, and by no less a figure than his eldest son, the co-director of the family business.

"Don Jr" already has testified behind closed doors, answering questions by Senate Judiciary Committee investigators for five hours on 7 September. Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, also testified behind closed doors before several congressional committees in July.

But the lawmakers want the various Trump insiders to publicly explain, under oath, their contacts with Russians before and after the November election. All have vehemently denied any collusion with Moscow, defending the contacts as of no significance or unrelated to the campaign.

In Trump's son's case, investigators are interested in one particular meeting he had in June 2016 at New York's Trump Tower with a Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya.

She had had been presented to Donald Jr as a Russian government lawyer who could provide compromising information about Hillary Clinton.

He says the meeting never led to anything. Regardless, investigators will want to know if his father was aware of what might amount to an attempt at collusion.

Donald Jr's testimony has not yet been scheduled by the Judiciary Committee, which is controlled by Republicans. If he refuses an invitation to testify, Congress can compel his testimony through its subpoena powers.
Beijing: Chinese president Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump discussed Trump's visit to China later this year and the Korean Peninsula situation over the phone on Monday.

Xi said China and the US share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas, Xinhua news agency reported.

Xi said he was happy to maintain communications with Trump on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern.

He also said Beijing attaches great importance to Trump's state visit to China, and called on both sides to work closely to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of China-US relations.

The two sides need to strengthen high-level contacts and contacts at all levels, operate the first round of China-US social and cultural dialogue as well as law enforcement and cyber security dialogue, and extend bilateral cooperation in all fields, Xi noted.

For his part, Trump said he was looking forward to paying the state visit to China, hoping that the trip can strongly move bilateral ties further forward.

It is satisfactory for the US and Chinese heads of state to maintain close contacts and a fine working relationship, Trump said.

This year both the United States and China have important domestic agendas, the US president noted, expressing the hope that these agendas will all be smoothly carried out.

Xi also expressed sympathy and solicitude to Trump and the American people for the destruction caused by the hurricanes in the United States over the past few days while Trump expressed thanks.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the current situation on the Korean Peninsula.
Kano: At least 15 people were killed on Monday when suicide bombers attacked an aid distribution point in northeast Nigeria, in the latest suspected strike by Boko Haram insurgents against civilians.

The blasts occurred in the Konduga area, about 40 kilometres from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri, both of which have been repeatedly targeted by the jihadist group.

On 16 August, at least 28 people were killed and more than 80 injured when three female suicide bombers detonated their explosives outside a camp for displaced persons in Konduga.

A rescue worker said the first blast on Monday happened at 11.10 am in the village of Mashalari. "(It) killed 15 people and left 43 others injured," he told AFP.

"It happened during aid distribution by an NGO, when people had gathered to receive donations," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Twelve minutes later, another bomber struck, but luckily only she died."

The rescue worker said both bombers were women but did not specify which NGO was distributing aid.

Northeast Nigeria is in the grip of a humanitarian crisis caused by the Islamist Boko Haram insurgency, which has left at least 20,000 people dead and displaced more than 2.6 million since 2009.

The violence has devastated farming, leading to chronic food shortages and leaving hundreds of thousands of people on the brink of starvation and dependent on aid agencies for help.

Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force, a militia assisting the military with security against Boko Haram, confirmed the rescue worker's account.

"We have dispatched out team to the scene," he said.

Nigeria's military and government maintains that Boko Haram is a spent force as a result of a sustained counter-insurgency campaign over the last two years.

But continued attacks, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas of Borno, suggest claims of outright victory are premature.

This month, jihadists fired a rocket-propelled grenade into a camp for the internally displaced near the border with Cameroon, killing seven.

Amnesty International says Boko Haram attacks since April have killed nearly 400 people in Nigeria and Cameroon - double the figure of the previous five months.

The UN children's fund said last month that 83 children had been used as suicide bombers this year, four times as many as in all of 2016.
Riyadh: Social media platform Snapchat has blocked access to Al-Jazeera content in Saudi Arabia, the media reported on Monday.

The popular photo-sharing app said it was asked by the Saudi authorities to remove the Qatari-backed broadcaster's Discover Publisher Channel because it violated local laws, reports the BBC.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement.

Qatar is in an ongoing dispute with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The four countries cut ties with Qatar earlier in 2017, accusing the country of supporting terrorism.

After the start of the dispute, Saudi Arabia had also demanded the Qatari government to shut Al-Jazeera altogether as one of 13 conditions to remove sanctions against the country.

However, those conditions were later withdrawn.
Washington: A knife-wielding student was shot dead by the police at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, US, authorities said.

The Georgia Tech Police Department responded to a call about a person reportedly carrying a knife and a gun near a school dormitory early Sunday morning, reports Xinhua news agency.

Officers arrived at the scene and tried to make contact with Scout Schultz, 21, who was holding a knife, outside a campus parking garage, an official statement said.

Schultz was not complying with the police as he approached the officers before one of them fired, striking him. He was taken to a hospital where he died later.

Videos taken by witnesses showed Schultz appeared to be walking barefoot, with an object in his right hand. He can be heard yelling "shoot me" to the officers who urged him to drop the knife.

"Our son, Scout Schultz, was killed by the Georgia Tech police," the victim's father, William Schultz, posted on Facebook.

"He had a tiny knife... They didn't have to shoot him in the heart, but that's what they did."

Scout was a fourth-year computer engineering student from Lilburn.
Washington: Members of the World Muhajir Congress have held a peace rally in front of the White House in support of US President Donald Trump's new South Asia policy in which he hit out at Pakistan for harbouring terrorists.

Trump in his new policy in August vowed to keep the US troops in Afghanistan so that a hasty recall did not create a void to be filled by terrorist organisations like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

He pledged to fight against all forms of terrorism and bring stability in South Asia. Trump said that America had been paying Pakistan billions of dollars while at the same time the country was housing terror organisations that the US has been fighting against.

World Muhajir Congress held rally against terrorism and human rights abuse by Pakistan in Karachi and Balochistan, in front of White House. pic.twitter.com/yJ8QUkIjPs  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

"We stand today in compassion with the people and government of the United States at a time when the USA and the rest of the world are facing the menace of ruthless religious extremism and terrorism," World Muhajir Congress (WMC) said in a statement on Sunday.

Muhajir is an Arabic-origin term used in Pakistan to describe Muslim immigrants, of multi-ethnic origin, and their descendants, who migrated from India after the Partition.

According to WMC, about 50 million Muhajirs live in Karachi, Hyderabad and other urban areas of the Sindh province.

"We collectively extend our support to the US administration in its efforts to eliminate terror safe havens on Pakistani soil," they said.

The participants held banners and placards highlighting Pakistan's role in promoting terrorism and demanded that the Trump administration declare Pakistan a "state sponsoring terrorism".

They called for the elimination of terror sanctuaries in Pakistan.

"We also express our deep sympathies with the families of victims who lost their loved ones in 9/11 terror attacks and other acts of terrorism around the globe," it said.

The rally was attended by leaders and activists from different political and ethnic groups from South Asia, including Muhajirs, Balochs, Afghans and Indians.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Former Vice President Joice Mujuru, who now leads the opposition National People's Party (NPP), has warned that President Robert Mugabe could unleash genocide on the Karanga population for opposing his grand plan of a dynasty.The NPP leader, who served as Mugabe's deputy for a decade, said his erstwhile ally-cum-foe's recent utterances at a presidential youth interface rally in Bindura that the provinces of Midlands and Masvingo were scuttling his plan were dangerous.Mugabe's Zanu-PF is now deeply-divided along two factions, the Team Lacoste that is behind Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is popular in Masvingo and Midlands provinces, and the Generation 40 (G40) that is opposed to the vice president's alleged presidential aspirations and is coalescing around First Lady Grace Mugabe."NPP is not shocked by Mugabe's utterances in Bindura labelling Masvingo and Midlands people as factionalists. The people of Zimbabwe know that Mugabe is a dangerous tribalist."When Mugabe makes such tribal utterances, Zimbabweans must not take him lightly as history has taught us that he can kill as he did during Gukurahundi," said Mujuru, speaking through her spokesperson, Gift Nyandoro.The so-called Gukurahundi massacres, carried out by a crack military unit trained by North Korean military advisers, resulted in the killings of 20 000 people, according to an estimate by the rights group Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace in Zimbabwe.Most of those killed were Ndebele.In Bindura, Mugabe told his supporters that he is worried about the conduct of Masvingo and Midlands provinces, which are reportedly the power-base of his deputy Mnangagwa."If Mugabe has a score to settle with his vice president (Mnangagwa), he could have done it in a closed meeting but taking it to a public rally was all to show the seriousness that he is after the Karangas; in both Midlands and Masvingo."Before the Gukurahundi genocide, Mugabe made similar statements at rallies, although he could have discussed the issue of the unrest in Matabeleland and Midlands with the late Joshua Nkomo in a Cabinet meeting," Mujuru's spokesperson said.During the Bindura rally, Grace also warned ominously that Mnangagwa could go the Mujuru way.And Mujuru said Mugabe is now going for the VP using the same modus operandi he used to purge her."It is known that when a leopard wants to eat its young ones, it claims that they smell like goats. Mugabe has found an issue to deal with Karangas. When Mugabe had all the support from Masvingo and Midlands, he used to proudly declare that Masvingo was a one-party province.' What has gone wrong?"Tribalism, regionalism or racism was never an issue ever debated during the early stages of the liberation struggle but was only a debatable agenda issue when Mugabe arrived in Mozambique. Rugare Gumbo, Dzinashe Machingura and many other Karangas were incarcerated for nothing but being Karangas."Mugabe forgot to mention that the liberation struggle was delayed by James Chikerema and Nathan Shamhuyarira who broke away from the main revolutionary party to form their Super Zanu called Frolizi (Front for the Liberation of Zimbabwe)."Can Mugabe mention any member from Masvingo or Midlands who were members of this Frolizi splinter group?"Why then does he want to say every factional fight starts from Masvingo? This is only Mugabe's divisionist Jezebel spirit - a divide and rule policy," Mujuru's spokesperson added.Mujuru said during Zanu's first congress in 1964 that was held in Gweru, "Mugabe was not elected secretary-general but was only awarded the post after he raised the tribal balance card."Mugabe was unknown, untrusted and unpredictable to the point that he lost all posts he contested until his cunning tribalism card saved him to land the post of secretary-general."
Islamabad: Raising objections over a new seven-storey US embassy building in the diplomatic enclave in Islamabad, the Auditor General of Pakistan had cautioned that its top floor can be "conveniently" used for surveillance of the government offices in the adjacent areas, a media report said.

The US government went ahead with the construction of the building without waiting for the prime minister's approval, Dawn reported.

The revelation comes amidst tensions in the ties between Pakistan and the US after president Donald Trump last month hit out at Islamabad for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad

that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists.

Citing an audit report released by the AGP office, the paper said that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) had withheld the no-objection certificate for the US embassy until the approval from the prime minister, as the CDA can only sanction

the construction of up to five-storey buildings in the area.

"Despite pending approval by the prime minister, construction had started," the audit report says.

Citing a report published in Dawn on 17 November, 2011, the paper said a CDA official had confirmed that a plan for a new US embassy building had been approved by the authority.

The report claims that the CDA chairman had received a letter from security agencies on 14 February, 2012, that expressed concerns about the construction of the seven-storey building, saying it "would overtake most of the ministries and other official buildings along the Constitution Avenue".

The AGP audit report also warned that "in all probabilities, the rooftop of the building will be utilised to install surveillance devices that could be used to monitor government offices in the vicinity".

It acknowledges that the "irregularity" occurred due to the "lack of oversight" and failure of implementation of rules.

Despite constant requests made by the AGP, a department accounts committee meeting could not be held, the report adds.

The audit report has recommended a high-level inquiry against the construction of the building and stresses upon "appropriate corrective action".

The building blueprint was approved in January 2012 by a committee comprising officials of the CDA, representatives of Planning, Emergency and Disaster Management and members nominated by the Pakistan Council of Architects and Town Planners.

Not one of them had raised an objection at the time.

After a local intelligence agency raised concerns, the city managers had decided to limit the height of the building.

The new embassy building was inaugurated in July 2015.

"The intelligence agency asked the CDA to explain how it could approve a seven-storey structure in the diplomatic enclave and urged the CDA to take appropriate action," the paper added.
Islamabad: Pakistan is ready with a tough diplomatic policy if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabad's major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, according to a media report.

Pakistan's new strategy comes after US president Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants.

A day after Trump's announcement, US secretary of state Rex Tillerson suggested that US could downgrade Islamabad's status as a major non-NATO ally if it does not crack down on militants.

The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government has prepared a three-option 'toughest diplomatic policy'.

According to official sources, the policy includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

"The last option may include a ban on using Pakistani land for NATO supplies to Afghanistan," according to the newspaper.

However, the policy will be implemented after the approval of the National Security Committee.

Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan are expected to sort out their differences during the meetings between their leaders on the sidelines of UN General Assembly session starting on Tuesady.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is expected to meet US vice president Mike Pence while the foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet.
Manila: Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte taunted the head of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday, asking if he was a paedophile because of his focus on the killing of teenagers in the governments bloody war on drugs.

Duterte also suggested to lawmakers that the CHRs proposed 678 million Philippine peso ($13.2 million) budget could be used to equip police with body cameras if the legislators preferred not to restore funding for the agency, with which he has repeatedly clashed over his anti-drugs campaign.

The CHR requested a budget of 1.72 billion pesos for 2018, but the government proposed 678 million instead. Dutertes allies in the lower house of Congress then voted to allocate it just 1,000 pesos ($20), in what critics of the drugs war said was retaliation for its efforts to investigate thousands of killings in the past 15 months, including those of two teenagers in August.

Why is this guy so pre...suffocated with the issue of young people, especially boys? Are you a paedophile? Duterte asked, referring to CHR head Chito Gascon. Why are you smitten with teenagers? Are you? Im having my doubts. Are you gay or a paedophile? he asked.

CHR spokeswoman Jacqueline de Guia said the presidents remarks deviated public attention away from a critical human rights issue in the country. These are remarks that do not show respect for the dignity of others. The public must understand that the death of children concerns us all as they are especially vulnerable and need state protection, De Guia told Reuters in a mobile phone message.

Duterte also accused Gascon of being a spokesman for the opposition and criticised his scrutiny of police anti-drug activities. Why cant you move on to other issues that are besetting this country? Duterte said, citing the suffering of the people in the besieged southern city of Marawi.

Critics say police are executing suspects under what is effectively a government policy. Duterte has rejected that claim while the police say they only kill in self-defence.

The CHR has long said it lacks the manpower and resources to fully investigate the killings, the majority of which activists say are of drug users and small-time peddlers, with few high-profile arrests.

Vice-President Leni Robredo, who was not Dutertes running mate and has locked horns with him numerous times, said the lawmakers move regarding CHRs budget effectively abolishes the constitutional body.

Filipinos largely support the crackdown as a means to tackle rampant crime, which Duterte says stems from drug addiction. Duterte reiterated there will be no let-up in the campaign, which he said was targeted at organised criminals trafficking in drugs and not at teenagers without a sin.

The firebrand leader, who is also fighting communist rebels following a breakdown in peace talks with the government, said he remained open to resuming negotiations to end the conflict that has dragged on for nearly five decades.
Madrid: Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) or Doctors Without Borders on Monday urged Myanmar to grant international humanitarian organisations unrestricted and independent access to the conflict-torn Rakhine state to enable provision of humanitarian assistance to the hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people.

The MSF appeal comes amid an ongoing military offensive in Rakhine that was launched on 25 August after the Arakan Rohingya Resistance Army (ARSA) mounted fresh attacks on multiple government posts in the region that led to over 400,000 Rohingyas fleeing to neighbouring Bangladesh.

"The remaining population in northern Rakhine, thought to be hundreds of thousands of people, is without any meaningful form of humanitarian assistance," the MSF was quoted as saying in a statement by Efe news.

According to the statement, in central Rakhine, around 120,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) remain in camps where they are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for their survival, owing to restrictions on their movements.

The statement added that MSF used to provide mobile clinics in several of these camps and villages "but international staff have not been granted travel authorisations to visit the health facilities since the end of August, whilst national staff have been too afraid to go to work following remarks by Myanmar officials accusing NGOs of colluding with ARSA".

Moreover, according to Benoit De Gryse, MSF's operations manager for Myanmar, the government's desire to exclusively provide humanitarian assistance in Rakhine "is likely to result in even more severe administrative and access constraints than ever".

The army offensive in Rakhine has been condemned globally by human rights organisations.

Rohingyas are not recognised as citizens by Myanmar although more than a million of them have lived in the country through generations, facing growing discrimination, including severe restrictions on their freedom of movement, following a sectarian conflict in 2012 that killed at least 160 people, and displaced nearly 120,000.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Council is set to discuss human rights violations in Myanmar and determine if an "ethnic cleansing" of the Rohingya minority is underway in the country.
The central government, on entirely expected lines, submitted an affidavit in the Supreme Court on Monday, calling the Rohingya refugees a "security threat" to India and calling for their deportation. This was in response to a plea before the apex court, against the deportation of Rohingya Muslims back to Myanmar on humanitarian grounds. The Supreme Court said it will hear both parties on 3 October.

The Rohingya crisis has resurrected the usual debate involving refugees  humanitarianism vs internal security  in south Asia, just as the Syrian crisis had exposed European nations to a similar dilemma two years ago.

When the Syrian refugees made a beeline to Europe in 2015, major west European leaders like David Cameron (Britain), Matteo Renzi (Italy), Francois Hollande (France), and major eastern European leaders like Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban resolutely drove them away, talking of a possible Islamic State backlash. None of these countries agreed to accept even the limited refugee quota that had been mandated by the European Union.

The hapless Syrian refugees had just the one saviour: Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany. Merkel agreed that security was a prime concern but she made an idealistic pitch  rare for a top leader of a major country  that the security concern could not make her abandon the humanitarian principles that constituted the bedrock of human civilisation.

Merkel's historic announcement that year saying that Germany would not deport the fleeing Syrian refugees took the world by surprise. It was a dream come true for the refugees to find a foothold in the richest country in Europe.

What, of course, nobody had bargained for was that many Iraqis, Afghanis, Iranians, Albanians and Eritreans also used the opportunity to find their spot in Merkel's Germany and begin a new lease of life. That resulted in swelling of numbers of new entrants to such a point that even a generous Merkel found it impossible to accommodate them all. More than 900,000 people sought asylum in a relatively small country like Germany.

That is when the Merkel administration made that important distinction between refugees and migrants; Germany would provide shelter only to those who were fleeing terror in their home lands. She made it clear, rightly so, that Germany could not be a stomping ground for citizens from poorer nations seeking a better quality of life.

That belies the misleading argument often made by the so-called defenders of national interest, that Merkel acted in haste and repented at leisure.

Despite the fact that the Right-wing populist AfD party has made rapid strides cashing in on a campaign that refugees would dig large holes into Germany's security and prosperity, Angela Merkel, who is seeking a fourth term as chancellor (24 September is election day in Germany), has remained unrepentant about her decision to allow refugees free passage.

In a recent interview, she had said, "All the important decisions of the year 2015 I would make again. At that time, Germany had acted in a difficult and humane manner."

It's this quality that makes Angela Merkel a colossal statesman, while most other European leaders who hid under the umbrella of pursuing "national interests" look like ordinary midgets.

The Rohingya crisis provided a historical setting for Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina to emerge as an iconic statesman of south Asia. The virtual ethnic cleansing by the military on the Rohingya population in Rakhine state of Myanmar (ironically, it is a country headed by a democracy icon and a Nobel Peace Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi) has led to hundreds of thousands of men, women and children seeking shelter in the neighbouring countries like India and Bangladesh.

And look at the contrasting manner in which the two are dealing with the crisis: Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina personally visited the camps last week, where more than seven lakh Rohingyas are housed, and spoke inspiring words that echoed the sentiments expressed by Angela Merkel two years ago: "We have the ability to feed 160 million people of Bangladesh and we have enough food security to feed the 700,000 refugees," Hasina said.

The Bangla Tribune, published from Dhaka, reported, "Hasina also directed the local governments to make sure the sick and wounded Rohingya were taken care of in the hospitals, and they receive immediate medical attention."

Invoking the good sense of her fellow citizens, Hasina made an earnest appeal to all Bangladeshis, "We have let the Rohingya in on humanitarian grounds and I ask the people of this country to help ease their suffering in whatever way they can."

And how did Narendra Modi's India deal with the Rohingya crisis? Well, India  a country eight times larger in population and 22 times larger in area compared to Bangladesh  has just 40,000 Rohingya refugees, which accounts for a little over five percent of those who have sought shelter in Bangladesh.

Can anything be of greater shame for a country (of 1,300 million people) which wishes to occupy a pride of place in the international comity of nations, that it wants to push out of its territory just 40,000 Rohingyas who have fled from the terror unleashed by the Myanmar authorities? Compare this with the decision of Bangladesh government which wants to take full care of the seven lakh refugees till they are taken back by the Myanmar government.

The defenders of the Indian government say that its humanitarian concern for the refugees is reflected in a grand-sounding 'Operation Insaniyat' initiative. Well, what does that entail? Some bags of foodgrain and some mosquito nets for the seven lakh Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

And what is our government's offer for the 40,000 refugees in our land? The Centre made it clear through the affidavit submitted to the apex court: Rohingyas must be deported for security reasons.

Therein lies the fundamental difference between an Angela Merkel and a Narendra Modi.

After a series of violent attacks in Germany  deemed to be Islamic terrorist activity and directly linked to some refugees who came in because of Merkel's open-door policy  the right-wing AfD party waged a virulent campaign that Germany had become sitting duck for militant action. In an election year, when most leaders would like to cover their flanks, Merkel's reply set the tone for a civilisational discourse: "A rejection of the humanitarian stance we took could have led to even worse consequences. The assailants wanted to undermine our sense of community, our openness and our willingness to help people in need. We firmly reject this," she said.

Narendra Modi should take a cue from Angela Merkel and Sheikh Hasina, and begin afresh a civilisational discourse in dealing with Rohingyas, unless, of course, he wants to be remembered in history in the same bracket as a Cameron or a Hollande.
Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has hit out at Bangladesh's policy on accepting Rohingya refugees from Myanmar's Rakhine state, questioning the country's motivations of coming to the community's aid.

Nasreen questioned if Bangladesh would offer refuge to a persecuted community if they were not Muslims, but belonged to other faiths.

B'desh offerd land 2shelter Rohingya.What if thse ppl wre Hindus,Buddhists,Christians,Jews but not Muslims?Shelter not 4humanity but 4votes!  taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) September 18, 2017

Nearly 410,000 members of the Rohingya Muslim minority fled from Myanmars western Rakhine state to Bangladesh to escape a military offensive that the United Nations has branded a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

Bangladesh has for decades faced influxes of Rohingya fleeing persecution in Buddhist-majority Myanmar, where the Rohingya are regarded as illegal migrants.

Bangladesh was already home to 400,000 Rohingya before the latest crisis erupted on 25 August, when Rohingya insurgents attacked police posts and an army camp in the western state of Rakhine, killing a dozen people.

Rights monitors and fleeing Rohingya say Myanmar security forces and Rakhine Buddhist vigilantes responded to the 25 August insurgent attacks with what they say is a campaign of violence and arson aimed at driving out the Muslim population.

Myanmar rejects that, saying its security forces are carrying out clearance operations against the insurgents of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which claimed responsibility for the August attacks and similar, smaller, raids in October.

The Myanmar government has declared the group a terrorist organisation and accused it of setting the fires and attacking civilians.

With inputs from Reuters
Chicago: Protesters hurled debris at police in St Louis, Missouri on Monday and smashed store windows as demonstrations over the acquittal of a former police officer in the shooting death of a black man turned violent for a third straight day.

Agitators are breaking multiple windows at Olive & 10th. Officers are heading to scene. #STLVerdict  St. Louis, MO Police (@SLMPD) September 18, 2017

Hundreds of protesters earlier staged a "die in" outside a police headquarters and marched through St Louis before returning to the headquarters building.

Peaceful demonstrations had turned violent on the two previous nights, with the city on edge since Friday's acquittal of white former police officer Jason Stockley.

The case  the latest high-profile incident of police using violence against a black suspect  has touched a nerve in St Louis, where racial tensions were heightened by the 2014 killing of a black man, Michael Brown, in the suburb of Ferguson by a white police officer.

Rock giants U2 and pop star Ed Sheeran called off scheduled weekend concerts in St Louis, saying police had advised them that security could not be assured.

The first sign of violence after Sunday's peaceful protest was a police tweet that a group was "throwing debris" at officers following a traffic stop near the police headquarters.

"If group cannot be peaceful they will be ordered to leave," the tweet said.

St Louis Post-Dispatch reporters on the scene reported soon after that vandals were breaking store windows, targeting small businesses and a restaurant.

"Protest is a mess now. People running everywhere, bike cops in pursuit," tweeted Mike Faulk, a Post-Dispatch journalist on the scene.

At least 35 people have been arrested since Friday, and 11 police officers were reported to have been injured in the clashes with stone-throwing protesters.

Store windows were smashed by vandals during the worst of the violence on Friday night.
Seoul: The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers flew over the peninsula to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on 3 September and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets few alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on 31 August.

The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be "destroyed" if it refused to end its "reckless" weapons drive.

The subject is set to dominate US president Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean president Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse."

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital  and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South  vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's national security adviser HR McMaster said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.
United Nations: Facing an escalating nuclear threat from North Korea and the mass flight of minority Muslims from Myanmar, world leaders gather at the United Nations starting Monday to tackle these and other tough challenges, from the spread of terrorism to a warming planet.

The spotlight will be on US president Donald Trump and France's new leader, Emmanuel Macron, who will both be making their first appearance at the General Assembly.

They will be joined by more than 100 heads of state and government, including Zimbabwe's president Robert Mugabe, one of Africa's longest-serving leaders who is said to be bringing a 70-member entourage.

While Trump's speeches and meetings will be closely followed, it will be North Korea, which Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls "the most dangerous crisis that we face today," that will be most carefully watched.

No official event addressing Pyongyang's relentless campaign to develop nuclear weapons capable of hitting the United States is on the UN agenda, but it is expected to be the foremost issue for most leaders.

Not far behind will be the plight of Myanmar's Rohingya Muslims, victims of what Guterres calls a campaign of ethnic cleansing that has driven nearly 4,00,000 to flee to Bangladesh in the past three weeks.

The Security Council, in its first statement on Myanmar in nine years, condemned the violence and called for immediate steps to end it. British foreign secretary Boris Johnson is hosting a closed meeting on the crisis Monday, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's contact group on the Rohingyas is scheduled to meet Tuesday.

Guterres said leaders would also be focusing on a third major threat, climate change. The number of natural disasters has nearly quadrupled and he pointed to unprecedented weather events in recent weeks from Texas, Florida and the Caribbean to Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Sierra Leone.

While Trump has announced that the United States will pull out of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, Macron will be hosting a meeting Tuesday to spur its implementation. And a late addition to the hundreds of official meetings and side events during the ministerial week is a high-level session Monday on the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma.

Several terrorism-related events are on the agenda. Macron is holding a meeting Monday with leaders of five African nations, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad  that are putting together a 5,000-strong force to fight the growing threat from extremists in the vast Sahel region.

A side event Wednesday on "Preventing Terrorist Use of the Internet" will be attended by senior representatives of major social media companies. Co-hosts Britain, France and Italy said a global response is needed "to make the online space a hostile environment for terrorists."

Trump has accused Iran of supporting terrorists and is threatening to rip up the 2015 deal to rein in its nuclear program. With a US decision due in October, ministers from the six parties to the agreement are expected to meet next week. The five others strongly support the deal.

Trump has also been critical of the United Nations and has promised to cut the US contribution to its budget, which is the largest. So some diplomats were surprised that the United States would sponsor an event Monday on reforming the 193-member world body.

Trump and Guterres will speak, and the United States has asked all countries to sign a declaration on UN reforms. Over 100 have added their names, but Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that "we are not sure we will sign this declaration".

He said that while "lots of ideas contained in this document are important and look similar to what the secretary-general proposes," UN reforms should result from negotiations among all countries instead of from "a declaration of like-minded countries".
Geneva: The World Health Organisation on Monday urged Yemen to approve cholera vaccinations it has offered to help contain an epidemic that could affect nearly a million people by year's end.

Yemen, where a multinational conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis, had asked the UN health agency earlier this year for doses of the vaccine, said Dominique Legros, the agency's cholera specialist.

The WHO sent a million doses in June only to see the Yemeni government change its mind, leading the United Nations to reassign the vaccines to Somalia and Sudan, Legros told reporters in Geneva.

Asked about Yemen's reversal, Legros said only that discussions with countries about vaccinations could be "complicated", noting the lack of familiarity with them in affected communities, especially in the case of newer vaccines like the one for cholera.

"We are still in negotiation with the government in Yemen to make sure we can also use (vaccines) to help control" the outbreak, he said.

Last week, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said the rampant cholera crisis in Yemen had reached "colossal proportions", warning that it could affect 850,000 people by the end of the year.

More than 2,000 people have perished from the disease, according to the WHO.

The epidemic has put further strain on a ravaged health system in Yemen, where less than half of healthcare facilities are functioning as the conflict drags on.

Since March 2015, a Saudi-led coalition has been waging a war on behalf of the internationally recognised government against Iran-backed Huthi rebels.

More than 8,000 people have been killed, including at least 1,500 children, and millions displaced in the conflict which has pushed the impoverished country to the brink of famine.
News / National

by Leletu Leleh Pheloza Miranda

The verbal spat between the two neighbouring countries' political leaders puts many Zimbabweans residing in South Africa in fear of xenophobic attacks. There seems to be no end to the verbal war between the ANC and South Africa's northern neighbour Zimbabwe's Zanu PF.The spat was sparked by utterances made by the 93-year-old Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe, while addressing a rally in his country's fourth largest city, Gweru.In comments, spoken in Shona and translated on NewZimbabwe.com, Mugabe says, "What was the most important thing for (Mandela) was his release from prison and nothing else. He cherished that freedom more than anything else and forgot why he was put in jail." He further states that even some cabinet ministers in the ANC government blame Mandela for leaving 'everything with whites.'The ANC responded through its Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe. Addressing; Mantashe says, he urged his Zanu PF counterparts to rein-in their president to refrain from denigrating the late former political leader. He says, "Your president is all over Madiba but the reality of the matter is that you have destroyed the economy in your country."However, the unrepentant Mugabe responded by saying Mantashe 'stupidly reacted' to criticism of Mandela. He says black South Africans are not as free as blacks in other SADC countries are. Quoted in Zimbabwean- state media, The Herald, Mugabe while addressing business leaders insists, "It is true, South Africa is not as free as other countries. There is greater freedom for the whites than there is for blacks. The whites have industries. They can pride themselves- this is my company that is my company, my farm. How far can the Africans go in doing the same in South Africa?"In response to the salvo, Mantashe took to Twitter. "Zimbabwe should be very thankful to us. President Mugabe cannot insult us. We don't research their crises; we meet it on the street.""What Mogabe has thought about Mandela being a sell-out might be true, but it does not concern them. The Secretary-General is doing the right thing by shielding the distinction of the late Tata Mandela over the Zanu PF leader." Andile Zwane said. The MUT Financial Accounting student adds on saying Zanu PF has been silent the whole time until the prosecution of Grace Mugabe. We could say the Zimbabwean president is just bitter.A South African citizen, Mzukisi Matinjwa believes that Mugabe is on point in this case. Matinjwa takes exception to the neighbouring president's remarks. He believes that Mogabe is correct in saying 'South Africa is not economically free'. Hence the is an economic gap between the poor and the elite who control the economy and the means of production. Even Mandela after his realise, just before he took office, once expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of the economy. The first black president placed blame on the rich, like Opreinheimers accusing them of monopolising the economy.The tiff has however left some Zimbabweans living in South Africa worried. Clayton Simba, a teacher who works in Mthatha thinks the tension between the long time allies might lead to xenophobic attacks. The worst thing is Grace Mugabe attacked a South African model with an extension cord but was let off the hook.'Will Zanu PF respond to Mantashe's remarks? That is what some people are waiting to see. As it is, it seems the diplomatic gloves are off between the two liberation parties.
Opinion / Book Reviews

Mzilikazi: A Mountain Falls (book four)

South African Heritage Publishers

48 pages, illustrated

R105

Each of our public holidays has a special meaning - a particular reason for its existence. Heritage Day, which South Africans celebrate every year on September 24, is no different. The day has been set aside to celebrate our diversity and culture.As former president Nelson Mandela said: "When our first democratically elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation."The idea of heritage is a difficult one to define, but it is generally agreed that it includes things such as our languages. Often overlooked, these key identifiers of heritage are among the more important mediums through which our cultures are communicated.Other aspects of heritage are the arts, our practices and our collective memories. This makes our heritage somewhat fluid - something that can be created or recreated, especially through the selection of information presented as public history.Think about it - the cultural memories of the person standing on a street corner are as important as the memories of those who run our country. They are certainly as important as your own, simply because these memories play a part in our identity and how we act this out in our lives.Knowing where others come from - how each of us came to be where we are today - will help us create a collective memory and public history that unites us. There was a time when the storytellers and bards would relate our stories around fires, capturing us with magical tales of our ancestors.The Our Story series takes up the role of those who kept our memories and helped us remember our past.Whether you choose to attend a formal celebration this Heritage Day, or sit around a fire and braai, take a moment to think about the way our pasts are linked.Maybe you can listen to the stories of your grandmothers or grandfathers, or read this extract about Chief Mzilikazi.The story of the Great Bull Elephant, the ruler Mzilikazi, son of Mashobane and grandson of Zwide, is told over four titles in the Our Story series. In our first three, we found out that Mzilikazi was the forefather of the amaNdebele nation, and both the friend and rival of Shaka Zulu. As an emerging leader, he took his people far from KwaZulu-Natal to the rolling plains of Limpopo. We followed the great path of the roving conqueror as he travelled from the east of what we now call South Africa to the far west, and the effect he had on the people he met along the way. In the final chapters of his life, the great Chief Mzilikazi expanded his territory and led his people further than he could have imagined.The fourth and final book in the series about Mzilikazi takes us on the last leg of his great road. The amaNdebele, also referred to as the Matabele in times past, still had a long way to go and many battles to fight. In this extract, read how Mzilikazi continues the long march of his people, struggles to keep the colonial forces at bay and is compared to Napoleon Bonaparte by a French missionary.Mzilikazi's attack on the Bangwaketsi set a pattern for future attacks on other tribes. The Matabele struck in the dead of night with flaming torches, driving the Bangwaketsi villagers out and murdering them as they fled. Not all of them were slaughtered, however, as the young men and women were captured. They would become warriors and mothers for the Matabele. During the day, the Matabele sent out their best warriors to continue the fight.The javelins, battle axes and clubs of the Bangwaketsi would not hold up against the sturdy ox-hide shields and assegais of the Matabele, so they fled far west to the Kalahari desert, where thirst caused more suffering.Eventually, the thirst even affected the Matabele who chased them. They turned back, collecting the scattered cattle along the way. The exiled Chief Sebitoane would later die in the dry desert of the Kalahari as the Matabele took control of the land.Mzilikazi's path of destruction would continue as he travelled west to defeat first the Bakgatla - the Baboon People - and then the Bakwena - the Crocodile People.In five years, the Matabele had marched as far as the Kalahari. By then, Mzilikazi's territory had grown very large. The only Bechuana community left in the area was the Bahurutsi.Mzilikazi made it clear that he wanted to defeat them by the autumn, but was interrupted by the arrival of three white men from across the seas. In March 1832, three Frenchmen arrived at the village of Mosega on behalf of the Paris Evangelical Mission Society.These men were Prosper Lemue, Samuel Rolland and Jean Pierre Pellissier, and they hoped to open up a missionary in the Bahurutsi territory. When they saw the wars that had ravaged the countryside, they decided to visit Mzilikazi's friend Robert Moffat instead. They would wait with him in Kuruman until peace returned to the land.During the next three months, they received letters from Paris demanding they set up the missionary station as soon as possible. When they learnt from Chief Mokgatla that there were no further invasions from Mzilikazi, they decided to leave Kuruman.Mzilikazi had, however, heard of the French missionaries and invited them to his royal kraal to find out what they wanted. Pellissier thought this would be a good time to discuss starting a missionary station in the area, so he travelled to Mzilikazi's kraal.After a long journey, Pellissier arrived at enKungwini to visit Mzilikazi. In the letters he sent to Paris, he described the Great Bull Elephant as charming but very strict, and told how the entire Matabele population listened to him.He compared the Matabele chief to another powerful ruler, Napoleon Bonaparte, who had waged war in faraway France. He said Mzilikazi seemed more stern and thirsty for territory than the French ruler.Mzilikazi welcomed Pellissier and even spoke about letting him work among the Matabele. Pellissier soon realised that Mzilikazi was more eager to learn how to use firearms than to build a church.After some time, Pellissier tried to return to Mosega and he glimpsed something of the powerful ruler's authority when Mzilikazi said he alone would decide when the missionary would leave. Mzilikazi put Pellissier to work cleaning a stack of firearms that the Matabele had taken from the Griqua at the Battle of Moordkop. Pellissier was eventually allowed to leave, returning to Mosega as quickly as his wagon would go.At Mosega, the tension between the Matabele and the Bahurutsi continued to grow. An incident happened a few months after Pellissier's return, when the Bahurutsi found a troop of six Matabele warriors they thought were sent to spy on Mosega. They were taken to Chief Mokgatla and executed before the French missionaries could intervene.Pellissier knew the response from Mzilikazi would be quick and ruthless, and he was right.In June that year, a convoy arrived at Mosega to demand that the missionaries return to enKungwini to see Mzilikazi. The missionaries guessed their journey would end badly, and decided to pack up their belongings and leave the Baharutsi and nearby Kuruman.Moffat even offered to send a guide with them to enKungwini, but they still refused. Moffat sent a messenger to Mzilikazi, but, after the messenger's disappearance and four months of silence, the message became clear: Mzilikazi had no intention of allowing the French missionaries to settle in Matabele country. Before Mzilikazi could march on the Bahurutsi in retaliation, he was attacked from the south by Dingane and his Zulu warriors. The clash ended in a stalemate, but both the Zulu and the Matabele held a victory dance after the battle. This was in spite of the retreat of the Zulus on the one hand and the severe losses suffered by the Matabele on the other.After the battle, Mzilikazi was eager to continue with his plan of expanding into Bahurutsi territory. He was cautious, but, after a few months, gave his warriors orders to attack. At the same time, Mzilikazi decided to move his royal kraal further west into the Marico District. As they marched, the Matabele were surprised to find that the Bahurutsi territory was largely abandoned, so they were met with little resistance.After securing the land from the fleeing Bahurutsi, Mzilikazi moved his royal kraal to Mosega. The women carried pots, sleeping mats and baskets, while the men drove herds of cattle to their new home. It was in this new place that Mzilikazi would encounter the battle that changed his life.- Ask your nearest bookseller to order a copy if they do not stock the series, or contact the publishers at info@saheritagepublishers.co.za- For a full list of titles in the series, visit saheritagepublishers.co.za- Read more about Mzilikazi in books one, two and three: Mzilikazi: A Khumalo Prince; Mzilikazi: The Roving Conqueror; and Mzilikazi: The Great Bull Elephant- For updates and more information, follow Our Story on Facebook at facebook.com/ancestorstories or on Twitter at @saheritagepub
Halloween Recipes on Food Network

From spooky snacks to creepy cakes, find everything you need to make this Halloween fa-BOO-lous!

Come in if you dare...
Coffee Cake for Challenging Days

First of all, weigh your eggs and try to remember the number - this is the amount of margarine, sugar and flour that you will need. Preheat your oven to 180C (or 160C fan). Cream together the margarine and sugar until they're light
Biscotti Di Prato

Medium

Preheat the oven to 160C. Place the almonds on a cookie sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, then transfer to a wide ceramic platter to cool off. Do not leave them on the cookie sheet or they will continue to cook and b
Opinion / Columnist

Once upon a time, I admired Dr Nkosama Moyo and considered him a man with a wisdom and a vision. Now I have got to know him better, to say I am disappointed is an understatement. He has turned out to be one of those very clever with words but sadly there are all hollow words "fully of sound and fury signifying nothing", to borrow from William Shakespeare.The more Dr Moyo tries to show he is different from the current crop of corrupt, incompetent and murderous tyrants, in the case of President Mugabe and his Zanu PF thugs still in the party or now in the opposition camp masquerading as democrats; the more he is becoming one with them."One sign stands out though, valiantly trying to light a candle, instead of cursing the darkness: APA is resolutely bringing a new brand of politics to Zimbabwe, a brand driven by core values not convenience and expedience, a style of politics whose focus is to rebuild the country with the right team and skill sets," said Nkosana Moyo."It is time to pick the team that will reverse the decline, not one that will produce more of the same. It is time for common sense to prevail. A common-sense decision says, I have looked at all the candidates. I have examined what they stand for. I have looked at their words versus their actions and because I want to see my country's economy restored and my children's future guaranteed, I am choosing to go with candidate x."We think your X should go next to APA on the ballot paper but the decision remains yours. You owe it to yourself to make a rational decision in the best interests of your country. It is time for heart and mind to converge so that all the signs of a dying country can be replaced by signs of prosperity."Dr Moyo has only been in the opposition camp a few weeks and yet he already thinks and talks like Morgan Tsvangirai."In his usual light-hearted manner, President Tsvangirai said he was more worried about the country's health, urging Zimbabweans to vote wisely next year so as to deal with the multi-layered afflictions of the country's political economy," Tsvangirai's spokesman, Luke Tamborinyoka, told the nation the other day.So, according to Dr Moyo and Tsvangirai, Zimbabweans have been stuck with this corrupt and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship for all these last 37 years because the people themselves failed to make "a common sense and rational decision" and/or failed to "vote wisely"! How shocking. It is not the people to blame here but the failed leaders.The country is in this political and economic mess because the leaders who promised freedom and liberty before independence have since become the new oppressors. Those who promised to bring democratic changes have failed to deliver even one change in two decades in frontline politics. And those promising "to light the candle and not curse darkness" do not have the common sense to accept that Zanu PF rigs elections and that there will never be any meaningful change in the country until something is done to stop vote rigging.Instead of the opposition expending their energy, time and treasure implementing the democratic reforms they are wasting it all on hare-brain schemes to win rigged elections and then blame povo, the victims of the rigged elections, for their failures.The one thing the people told Tsvangirai everywhere he went last year, during his nationwide tour, was the problem of Zanu PF rigging the vote; be it vote buying using food, agricultural input donations, etc. Or by wielding the large stick through voter intimidation, harassment, beating, rape and even murder. The populous are constantly reminded of the wanton violence of 2008 and that it will return if they fail to do as they are told. Tsvangirai has done absolutely nothing to end this blatant denial of the people's right to free, fair and credible elections.Dr Moyo himself has acknowledged the country's problem of politically motivated violence. He has said, he is not going to hold any public rallies and instead confine his campaign to door to door chats for fear rallies will attract retribution from Zanu PF thugs. This is not going to end Zimbabwe's culture of political violence; he is just kicking the can down the street, at best. The solution is to implement the democratic reforms and stop messing around.Like it or not Zanu PF is right now frogmarching people, especially in the rural areas, to register to vote, to attend ongoing Zanu PF rallies and, come voting day, to vote for the party.The vote rigging has already started. The regime has deliberately delayed the voter registration until now, there is less than a year to the next elections; there will be no time to inspect, correct and produce a verified voters' roll. The failure to produce a verified voters' roll was one glaring and very serious vote rigging tactic in the 2013 elections and, signs are, the regime will do the same again.SADC leaders advised Zimbabwe's morbid, corrupt and incompetent opposition politicians not to contest the July 2013 national elections with no democratic reforms in place. Their advice is even more relevant today. It is madness to keep contesting elections, knowing fully well the whole process is flawed. President Mugabe has a dice with six on all six sides, betting on him failing to throw a six is insane.Zimbabwe is in a serious economic and political mess and we are not getting out of the mess by contesting flawed elections. Just because the country's opposition politicians are corrupt and incompetent and would not listen to the sound advice from SADC leaders does not mean we, the ordinary Zimbabweans, too should not pay heed to the advice. We must demand the implementation of the democratic reforms and refuse to be dragged into yet another futile electoral process.The common-sense decision in Zimbabwe today is to stop contesting flawed elections and put an end to this madness of hoping to win rigged elections. All those contesting the flawed elections have no common sense. None!Who would have thought someone like Dr Nkosana Moyo would be that stupid and join the likes of Tsvangirai, Biti, Ncube, Coltart and the rest of the morbid MDC leaders in contesting flawed elections. Dr Moyo even has chutzpah to accuse the people of lacking common sense when he is the one who has none.
Grilled Breakfast Tacos

Medium

Prepare a grill for medium heat. Prick the chorizo links 3 or 4 times with a fork (this keeps them from bursting on the grill). Brush them all over with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Grill, turning as needed, until charred all over and cooked through, 12
Irish budget airline Ryanair was under pressure Monday to provide more information to travelers after canceling up to 50 flights a day over the next six weeks because it mismanaged its pilots' holiday schedules.

Ryanair, Europe's biggest airline by passenger numbers, canceled the flights because it had "messed up in the planning of pilot holidays."

The company promised to publish a full list of the canceled flights by Tuesday, but as of Monday there were only details on canceled flights through Wednesday.

Travelers with flights after Wednesday remained in limbo and took to social media to vent their anger.

"How the hell do you know if you can get back. Publish full list now!" Carole Schofield tweeted.

The company offered to refund travelers for their canceled flights, in accordance with EU law, or to allow them to change their flight for free. It also faces paying compensation of 250 euros ($300) per traveler for flights canceled on less than two weeks' notice.

CEO Michael O'Leary said Monday that the cost of compensation will run up to 20 million euros ($24 million).

"Clearly there's a large reputational impact for which again I apologize. We will try to do better in future," he said.

Shares in the airline fell 1.8 percent to 16.77 euros in Dublin in an otherwise higher market.

Analysts said Ryanair's scheduling problems stemmed from having to harmonize Irish rules with European Union rules on how many hours pilots can fly in a certain period of time.

"The impact in terms of adverse publicity and frustration to customers is large," said Loizos Heracleous, professor of strategy at the Warwick Business School. He does not, however, expect it to have a durable financial impact on the company, which is expanding and is adept at controlling costs and finding new sources of revenue.
Shares of U.S. toy companies Mattel Inc <MAT.O> and Hasbro Inc <HAS.O> fell on Monday on concerns that retailer Toys "R" Us, a major customer, could be filing for bankruptcy before the holiday sales season.

In the latest sign of distress that has ripped through traditional brick-and-mortar retailers, sources said late on Friday that Toys "R" Us was working to put together a loan to fund its operations in a potential Chapter 11 filing.

Toys "R" Us declined to comment.

The company is one of the three largest customers for both Mattel and Hasbro, according to the companies' most recent annual reports. The other two are Wal-Mart Stores Inc <WMT.N> and Target Corp <TGT.N>.

Mattel said in its annual report that it typically makes sales on credit, without collateral, and it warned that a bankruptcy filing by any major customer could significantly affect revenue and profitability.

"If there is any kind of bankruptcy filing, it will have a major disruption for all of the toy suppliers," said Lutz Muller, chief executive officer of toy retail consultancy Klosters Trading Corp. "Toys "R" Us needs to have money in place to get merchandise on the shelves ahead of the holiday season."

Toys "R" Us is the second-largest U.S. toy retailer behind Amazon.com Inc <AMZN.O>, according to data compiled by Muller.

Mattel's shares dropped 5.7 percent to $14.95, and Hasbro was down 1 percent at $93.90 in afternoon trading. Jakks Pacific Inc <JAKK.O>, a smaller U.S. toy company that also relies on Toys "R" Us for its business, fell 7.2 percent to $2.83.

Mattel, Hasbro and Jakks did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Tracy Rucinski in Chicago; Additional reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware and Jessica DiNapoli in New York; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday his government could stop doing business with Boeing if the U.S. company doesn't drop a trade complaint against Canadian plane maker Bombardier.

Trudeau said Canada "won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and put our aerospace workers out of business."

Canada had been in talks to purchase 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from U.S. aerospace giant Boeing, but those have been on hold because of the Bombardier dispute. Trudeau's comments are Canada's strongest yet.

Chicago-based Boeing's complaint claims Bombardier's new C Series passenger aircraft receives Canadian government subsidies that give it an advantage internationally.

The complaint prompted a U.S. Commerce Department anti-dumping investigation that could result in penalties for Bombardier. A preliminary decision is expected next week and a final decision could include financial penalties.

Boeing spokesman Scott Day took issue with Trudeau, saying Boeing is not suing Canada.

"This is a commercial dispute with Bombardier, which has sold its C Series airplane in the United States at absurdly low prices, in violation of U.S. and global trade laws. Bombardier has sold airplanes in the U.S. for millions of dollars less than it has sold them in Canada, and millions of dollars less than it costs Bombardier to build them," Day said in an emailed statement.

"This is a classic case of dumping, made possible by a major injection of public funds."

Trudeau spoke during a news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Bombardier is also a major employer in Northern Ireland, with over 4,000 workers in Belfast. May said she brought up the issue with U.S. President Donald Trump in a telephone call recently and said she'll reiterate Bombardier's importance to Northern Ireland when she meets with Trump this week.

Boeing petitioned the U.S. Commerce Department and the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate subsidies of Montreal-based Bombardier's C Series aircraft. Boeing says Bombardier has received more than US$3 billion in government subsidies that let it engage in "predatory pricing."

Brazil has also launched a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization over Canadian subsidies to Bombardier. Sao Paolo-based Embraer is a fierce rival of Bombardier's.

The Quebec government invested US$1 billion in exchange for a 49.5 percent stake in the C Series last year. Canada's federal government also recently provided a US$275 million loan to Bombardier, which struggled to win orders for its new medium-size plane.

Bombardier won a 75-plane order for the C Series from U.S.-based Delta Air Lines in 2016. Bombardier said its planes never competed with Boeing in the sale to Delta.

The Canadian government said late last year it would enter into discussions on buying 18 Super Hornet jet fighters from Boeing on an interim basis and hold an open competition to buy more planes over the next five years. Canada remains part of Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

Canadian Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan previously said Boeing's action against Bombardier is "unfounded" and not the behavior of a "trusted partner." He said buying the Super Hornet fighter jets "requires a trusted industry partner."
In response to threats from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the country would stop doing business with Boeing (NYSE:BA) unless it dropped a trade complaint against Canadian plane maker Bombardier on Monday, Boeing doubled down on its dumping allegations.

Boeing is not suing Canada  This is a classic case of dumping, made possible by a major injection of public funds. This violation of trade law is the only issue at stake at the U.S. Department of Commerce. We like competition. It makes us better. And Bombardier can sell its aircraft anywhere in the world. But competition and sales must respect globally-accepted trade law, a Boeing spokesperson said in a statement.

On Monday, Trudeau said Canada "won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and put our aerospace workers out of business."

Canada had been in talks to purchase 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing, but those have been on hold because of the Bombardier dispute.

Chicago-based Boeing's complaint claims that Bombardier's new CSeries passenger aircraft receives Canadian government subsidies that give it an advantage internationally.

This is a commercial dispute with Bombardier, which has sold its C Series airplane in the United States at absurdly low prices, in violation of U.S. and global trade laws. Bombardier has sold airplanes in the U.S. for millions of dollars less than it has sold them in Canada, and millions of dollars less than it costs Bombardier to build them, according to Boeings statement.

The complaint prompted a U.S. Commerce Department anti-dumping investigation that could result in penalties for Bombardier.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Disneyland has become somewhat of a culinary destination, dishing out the most Instagrammable and outrageous looking dishes  and this latest instance is no exception.

The resorts new treat is a unique twist on nachos, but instead of tortilla chips, its served with tiny corn dogs. On the menu at White Water Snacks at the Grand Californian Hotel, these corn dog nachos appear to come topped with nacho cheese, tomatoes, olives, green onions, jalapenos and guacamole.

THIS DISNEY WORLD RESTAURANT IS NOW SERVING WINE SLUSHIES

If youre interested in trying this surprising dish, you better head to Anaheim ASAP because theyre only available through the end of September as part of the snack bar's rotating Hot Dog of the Month menu.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

Previous months hot dogs specials included a mac and cheese-topped dog with bacon, and a chili cheese dog with fritos.
Health officials in Australia are warning about the horrific flu season after an 8-year-old girl died of the viral infection on Friday.

The Victorian Health Department confirmed the girl died at the hospital, The Sydney Morning Herald reported on Monday. The girls identity was not revealed.

HAWKEYE FAN WAVE BRINGS JOY TO 4-YEAR-OLD PATIENT, FAMILY

Health officials urged people to be vaccinated and not dismiss flu symptoms as simply a cold. At least 97 people have died from the flu in Victoria this year.

"We are having a horrific flu season," Health Minister Jill Hennessy said. "This is an influenza strain that is able to impact the young, the elderly, the well and the unwell."

"We are dealing with a horror flu season and we're not quite sure when or where it will finish," Hennessy added.

FAMILY LISTENS TO DEAD SON'S HEARTBEAT 11 YEARS AFTER TRANSPLANT

A 30-year-old man also died early September from the flu on the countrys Fathers Day.

Cases of the flu in Australia has jumped significantly this year, with more than 160,000 cases reported in the continent compared to 75,818 recorded from last year.
Grieving family members traveled from Ohio and packed into an Indiana school library on Saturday for a chance to listen to the heart of their relative that saved the life of a first-grade teaching assistant 11 years ago. Donna Harper, whose son Matthew Boylen was killed in a car accident, was the first to meet transplant recipient Lucy Boenitz, IndyStar.com reported.

After years of letters and Facebook messages, the two women exchanged emotional hugs, and then Boenitz offered Boylen the chance to listen to her deceased sons heart beating inside of her chest.

HAWKEYE FAN WAVE BRINGS JOY TO 4-YEAR-OLD PATIENT, FAMILY

Do you want to hear his heart, she said. Its probably going a million miles an hour.

Boylen listened first, followed by Matthews 12-year-old daughter, his two sisters, his longtime girlfriend and his nieces and nephews, IndyStar.com reported.

He would have wanted his heart to go to someone who loved their family, who made a difference in the world, Jamie Harriman, Matthews sister, told IndyStar.com. Thats why weve been able to come to terms. Were all organ donors now.

Boenitz, who lost her own son to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) more than 20 years ago, told the family that she is proud to tell others about Matthew.

When I tell people about Matthew, I am just so proud of him and he isnt my child, she told IndyStar. Had he not even given me a heart, Im just so proud of him. He was doing all the right things.
Opinion / Columnist

It is mind boggling that a Zimbabwean can travel all the way to the US to participate in demonstrations calling for sanctions against fellow Zimbabweans, all because they do not see eye-to-eye with the ruling ZANU PF party. The likes of Morgan Tsvangirai, Patson Dzamara, Savannah Madamombe and Evan Mawarire have gained infamy for their anti-Zimbabwe activism disguised as opposition to the ZANU PF government.These activists use every available opportunity to besmirch the country's standing in the community of nations, in the process jeopardizing the country's strategic interests. The on-going United Nations General Assembly has provided a fertile hunting ground for these political vultures to feast upon the aspirations of the people through rent-a-crowd demonstrations.In America, the Patriot Act makes it a high crime to aid the county's enemies, in the same fashion these pseudo-activists have caved a career out of inviting collective punishment for their kith and kin on account of their political differences with ZANU PF.The Patriot Act in the US was enacted following the September 11 2001bombings where some Americans were accomplices in the horrendous bombings.Ordinary Zimbabweans in Muzarabani, Chiredzi and Kotwa are collectively punished by the imperial masters of this world for their support for ZANU PF, all because a fellow Zimbabwean abused their Zimbabwean-issued passport to attract the punishment.Our legislators may need to consider some remedial action against those who abuse the privilege of a passport to invite sanctions against the people.In African philosophy, ubuntu tells us that "I am because we are". In other words, we attain our individuality because society around us has achieved human existence as well. Our opposition activists are actually denouncing this ubuntuism by putting their individual interests ahead of those of the greater community.Zimbabwe's strategic interest should be separated from those of political parties. These interests should not be jeopardized for political expediency. History does not forget, one day these people will be called to account for their anti-people activism in the people's court of justice.
No one wants to repeal ObamaCare more than I do. As a career physician, there are few in Congress who have as much firsthand experience on all sides of the health care debate as I do. Ive voted for repeal. Ive sponsored my own Repeal and Replace plans.

But Ive also led the fight to stop and block ObamaCare Lite plans offered in both houses of Congress this year. These have been plans that have spent nearly as much money as ObamaCare, that left most of the taxes and regulations in place, and basically failed to honor our promise of repeal.

Unfortunately, theyre back again, and I must add to the list of ObamaCare Lite plans to oppose the new Graham/Cassidy bill that was introduced last week in the Senate.

In all ways, this bill is also ObamaCare Lite. In no way is it repeal the way we promised. I will oppose this bill as I did the other fake repeal bills, and I urge those who want repeal to do so, as well.

Make no mistake  Graham/Cassidy keeps ObamaCare funding and regulations in place. Oh, it rearranges the furniture a bit, changes some names, and otherwise masks what is really going on  a redistribution of ObamaCare taxes and a new Republican entitlement program, funded nearly as extravagantly as ObamaCare.

Their sales pitch is, If you like your ObamaCare, you can keep it. Thats nice, but I dont like it, I dont want to keep it, and I dont want to keep paying for it.

Graham/Cassidy doesnt repeal a single ObamaCare insurance regulation. All of the Title 1 rules, the Essential Health Benefit rules, all of them - theyre still in place here.

States may grovel on bended knee for some relief to the federal government, with no guarantee of success and no permanent solution beyond the current administration.

I believe the president and HHS Secretary would WANT to do the right thing on state waivers, but Ive already spent the better part of the year arguing with an army of bureaucrats and lawyers in the administration trying to get them to do something President Trump and I AGREE should be done - loosening up the rules on joining group plans. This would be a huge change for Americans and a big fix for our system  yet they cant get it done. The idea disappears into the Swamp. Im afraid even the minor waivers of regulations envisioned here would do the same.

This bill is also set to spend us further into debt. Even the bills authors and proponents, using what Im sure are rosy numbers, admit that their ObamaCare Lite bill will spend 90 percent of what we currently spend on ObamaCare. Other estimates are closer to 95 percent. Either way, did anyone go out to vote so we could repeal only 5 or 10 percent of ObamaCare? I didnt.

Graham/Cassidy wont fix our health care problems, and it will become a permanent drain on the treasury - one that is already $20 trillion in debt, with a $700 billion deficit next year.

Repeal of ObamaCare, if we did it root and branch as some suggested in their campaigns, would have saved over a trillion dollars in spending over 10 years. Instead, we are left trying to save crumbs while leaving the system largely intact.

I wont do it. I know many of my colleagues are getting desperate to say they did something, and I can sympathize with that. They figure most people arent paying attention, and the press conference where they said they did something would carry them through the elections next year.

But Im worried. Im worried about what happens when premiums continue to go up double digits (and they will). Im worried about what happens when the system continues its downward spiral, but this time it is GOP/TrumpCare that gets blamed. And they will.

Im looking ahead past the next election, to the day of reckoning when the bills are due, and we are out of money, because we did the wrong thing for the wrong reasons.

Graham/Cassidy keeps a trillion dollars in taxes and spending and redistributes it. And, somehow, people are looking to call this federalism. I wish it were, but thats just not the case.

Their sales pitch is, If you like your ObamaCare, you can keep it. Thats nice, but I dont like it, I dont want to keep it, and I dont want to keep paying for it. So how about we all keep our word and get rid of it?

To my colleagues, I say, No thanks. This bill is no better than the last attempt and should receive no more support. It should not pass. Ill vote no, and Ill fight to stop the newest ObamaCare Lite plan.
The Hillary Clinton road show is only just beginning.

While the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee spent the last week doing TV interviews and even signing books at a Manhattan Barnes & Noble, that was political prologue  to the extended book tour that formally kicks off Monday evening.

The former secretary of state will take the stage at Washington, D.C.'s Warner Theater sometime after 7 p.m. ET for what's being described as a "conversation about a story thats personal, raw, detailed and surprisingly funny."

It might not be so funny for Democrats already fretting about the tensions that Clinton's return to the spotlight has stirred up.

Former Bill Clinton pollster Doug Schoen, also a Fox News contributor, said last week that it's "time for her to step off the stage, find something productive to do and stop pointing fingers."

Critics, including her former opponent President Trump, have dismissed the book promotion so far as a blame tour, as Clinton calls out a wide range of culprits to explain her surprise defeat last fall.

Crooked Hillary Clinton blames everybody (and every thing) but herself for her election loss. She lost the debates and lost her direction! the president tweeted.

But Clinton has a packed schedule, and America can expect to see her in the spotlight through the holidays.

Starting Monday, she hits the road for live events across the United States and Canada to promote her What Happened campaign memoir. The former secretary of state is scheduled to visit 15 cities for these Hillary Clinton Live appearances between now and early December.

Her first appearance before a live audience on Monday will be just a stones throw away from the White House.

She will be interviewed on stage by Lissa Muscatine, her former chief speechwriter who co-owns the Politics and Prose bookstore.

Clinton has given media interviews and appeared for book signings since the memoir was released last Tuesday, portraying this book as her first opportunity to speak candidly.

Im letting my guard down, Clinton writes in the book.

The price of admission to the events has drawn attention, with certain premium ticket packages to her events going for thousands.

For example, Clinton fans in Toronto can obtain a VIP platinum ticket for her Sept. 28 talk for $2,375.95. That ticket includes two front-row seats, a photo with Clinton backstage and a signed book.

HILLARY CLINTON CHARGING BIG BUCKS FOR BOOK TOUR EVENTS

For the same price, VIP tickets also are available during Clintons upcoming appearances in Montreal and Vancouver.

The steep prices have not gone unnoticed in the publishing industry.

It is standard for high profile authors to do book tours that sell tickets to events, but Clinton's tour takes it to a new level of greed, an industry source told Fox News.

But Simon & Schuster, the publisher of Clintons book, has defended the practice. A spokesman said it is customary for a venue to charge for tickets at events featuring high profile writers.

Tickets typically include a book, Cary Goldstein, the executive director of publicity at Simon & Schuster, told Fox News, saying lecture venues have become a central component of book tours for public figures.

General admission tickets to Clinton's events are offered as well, for a lower price than the VIP versions. In Toronto, all the $70.49 tickets for Clintons lecture already have sold out.

Ticket prices for Clintons events vary, depending on the location. In Broward County, Fla., they range from $50 to $375 a ticket for an Oct. 3 appearance.

For Clintons Nov. 1 event in New York, VIP tickets are going for $750.

The tour will also take Clinton through Florida, California, Michigan, Illinois, New York, Wisconsin, Georgia, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Washington state and Oregon.

In her book, Clinton attributes her loss in part to: the Russians, the media, voter ID laws, sexism and former FBI Director James Comey. She also goes after her former Democratic presidential rival Bernie Sanders, accusing him of paving the way for the relentless Crooked Hillary attacks she endured during the general election.

CLINTON BLASTS BERNIE SANDERS FOR INSPIRING CROOKED HILLARY ATTACKS

She accuses Sanders of resorting to innuendo and impugning my character during the contentious primary because the Democratic socialist couldnt make a policy argument against her.

Nonetheless, his attacks caused lasting damage, making it harder to unify progressives in the general election and paving the way for Trumps Crooked Hillary campaign, Clinton writes.

Tickets are sold out for Monday evening's event.
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that four large national monuments in the West be reduced in size, potentially opening up hundreds of thousand or even millions of acres of land revered for natural beauty and historical significance to mining, logging and other development.

Zinke's recommendation, revealed in a leaked memo submitted to the White House, prompted an outcry from environmental groups who promised to take the Trump administration to court to block the moves.

The Interior secretary's plan would scale back two huge Utah monuments -- Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante -- along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. More logging and other development also would be allowed at three other monuments -- two in in New Mexico and one in Maine.

Bears Ears, designated for federal protection by former President Barack Obama, totals 1.3 million acres in southeastern Utah on land that is sacred to Native Americans and home to tens of thousands of archaeological sites, including ancient cliff dwellings. Grand Staircase-Escalante, in southern Utah, includes nearly 1.9 million acres in a sweeping vista larger than the state of Delaware.

Grand Staircase has been a source of ire for local officials and Republican leaders for more than two decades amid complaints that its 1996 designation as a monument by former President Bill Clinton closed off too much land to development.

Cascade-Siskiyou, in southwestern Oregon, protects about 113,000 acres in an area where three mountain ranges converge, while Nevada's Gold Butte protects nearly 300,000 acres of desert landscapes that feature rock art, sandstone towers and wildlife habitat for bighorn sheep and the threatened Mojave Desert tortoise.

Two marine monuments in the Pacific Ocean also would be reduced under Zinke's memo, which has not been officially released. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the memo.

President Trump ordered the review earlier this year after complaining about a "massive land grab" by Obama and other former presidents.

"It's gotten worse and worse and worse, and now we're going to free it up, which is what should have happened in the first place. This should never have happened," Trump said in ordering the review in April.

National monument designations add protections for lands known for their natural beauty with the goal of preserving them for future generations. The restrictions aren't as stringent as for national parks, but some policies include limits on mining, timber cutting and recreational activities such as riding off-road vehicles.

No president has tried to eliminate a monument, but some have trimmed and redrawn boundaries 18 times, according to the National Park Service.

Zinke's recommendations to pare down the four Western monuments -- and allow more logging and other development in three other monuments -- "represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands" by the Trump administration, said Jamie Williams, president of the Wilderness Society.

"This callous proposal will needlessly punish local, predominantly rural communities that depend on parks and public lands for outdoor recreation, sustainable jobs and economic growth," Williams said, vowing to challenge in court any actions by the Trump administration to reduce the size of national monuments.

"Zinke claims to follow Teddy Roosevelt, but he's engineering the largest rollback of public land protection in American history," said Kieran Suckling, executive director of the Center for Biological Diversity, another environmental group. "If Teddy were alive today, he'd declare political war on Zinke and Trump."

Zinke has declined to say whether portions of any monuments under review would be opened up to oil and gas drilling, mining, logging and other industries for which Trump has advocated.

It was not clear from the memo how much energy development would be allowed on the sites recommended for changes, although the memo cites "active timber management" as a goal, as well as increased public access.

A spokeswoman for Zinke referred questions to the White House, which said in a statement that it does not comment on leaked documents.

If Trump adopts the recommendations, it would quiet some of the worst fears of his opponents, who warned that vast public lands and marine areas could be lost to states or private interests.

But significant reductions in the size of the monuments, especially those created by Obama, would mark the latest in a string of actions where Trump has sought to erode his Democratic predecessor's legacy.

The recommendations cap an unprecedented four-month review based on Trump's claim that the century-old Antiquities Act had been misused by past presidents to create oversized monuments that hinder energy development, grazing and other uses.

In addition to shrinking the four western monuments, Zinke recommends greater economic activity at Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte in New Mexico, and Katahdin Woods and Waters in Maine.
Senate Republicans are trying again to repeal and replace ObamaCare, pushing a measure that would give states broader authority through block grants and which appears to have wide support among GOP members. But the deadline to pass such a measure ends in just days, with leaders of the GOP chamber skeptical about another failed and damaging attempt.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., says hes just one or two votes shy of the minimum 50-vote threshold, with 52 Republicans senators in the chamber. He said last week that Democrats and Republicans alike have said, If we give states the flexibility to come up with their own solutions, they will find solutions that work better for their states than ObamaCare.

It looks like they are getting there, counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway on Monday told Fox News Fox & Friends.

Conway, like Cassidy, says the plan also has support among governors, with 34 of the countrys 50 being Republican. And she made clear again how important the GOP-controlled Congress passing such a measure is to President Trump, who made dismantling ObamaCare a key campaign promise.

This president wants to deliver health care to the 29 million Americans who dont have it, she also said Monday. Hes ready.

The 100-member Congress has until Sept. 30 to pass the bill under the so-called budget resolution process, in which bills that also identify deep cuts to federal spending require only a simple majority for passage.

Cassidy, a medical doctor, reportedly said Friday that he can get the votes by the deadline. The bill is co-sponsored by fellow Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, of South Carolina.

Senate Democrats also appear to think the Graham-Cassidy bill is for real.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., tweeted a red alert about it on Twitter this past weekend.

Trumpcare is back & Senate GOP has until Sept 30 to pass their bill, he tweeted. We need your voices more than ever!

Still, the chambers GOP leaders remain wary of holding another potentially failed vote, despite intense pressure from Trump.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., had to delay a repeal-replace vote in July, upon realizing he didnt have enough support, only to have a leadership-backed bill fail in August by just one vote.

Meanwhile, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has introduced a bill that attempts to have the country move to a single-payer health care system, which essentially is a federally run program for every American.

Cassidy on Friday playfully called the measure BernieCare, but warned the idea speaks to the depth of problems with the existing U.S. health care system.

He would not be putting that forward if he thought that the status quo was working, Cassidy said.

Sanders acknowledged as much Sunday.

I think the immediate concern is to beat back these disastrous Republican proposals that would throw millions and millions of people off of the health insurance, he said on NBCs Meet the Press. It's not going to happen tomorrow. I totally admit that. But we need to put benchmark down there and go forward.

The Graham-Cassidy bill purportedly has support from Sens. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev.

However, Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, a holdout on previous repeal-replace efforts, has not publicly expressed support.
Before Roy Moores sexual assault allegations came to light, the Republican senate candidate was already a polarizing figure.

Moore has argued that Muslims shouldnt be able to serve in Congress; he promoted the conspiracy theory that former President Barack Obama wasnt born in the U.S.; and he said in a 2005 interview that homosexual conduct should be illegal.

Then, slightly a month before the special election, the Washington Post released a bombshell report of allegations that Moore had inappropriate sexual conduct with teenage girls while he was in his 30s. One woman alleged that Moore had her touch him in private areas when she was just 14.

After the initial report, additional women came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct.

Moore staunchly denied the accusations, but even still, many leading Republicans called on him to step aside from the campaign. However, others  including President Trump and Steve Bannon  stood by Moore.

The former judge lost the Alabama Senate election earlier this month to Democrat Doug Jones, but he thus far has refused to concede.

After a judge rejected a last-minute complaint from Moore that alleged voter fraud had given Jones his victory, the Democrat was officially certified as the winner of the states Senate race on Dec. 28.

Read on for a look at the special Senate election held earlier in December to replace Jeff Sessions.

Doug Jones, Democrat

A former U.S. attorney during the Clinton administration, Jones beat out seven other Democrats to secure the partys nomination. And he eventually became the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate in Alabama since 1992.

Jones, 63, is perhaps best known for successfully prosecuting two members of the Ku Klux Klan accused of bombing a Birmingham church in 1963 that killed four young girls.

I may have the honor of serving Alabama as your senator, but the most important thing I have done is prosecuting those klansmen who killed 4 little girls at 16th St Baptist Church, Jones said in a November tweet.

Because of his resume, Steven Taylor, a political science professor at Alabamas Troy University, said Jones is considered to be a quality candidate in the political science world. He's someone who is credible and, therefore, competitive, Taylor told Fox News.

HERE ARE ALL OF THE REPUBLICANS WHO HAVE COME OUT AGAINST ROY MOORE

Weve not seen a lot of quality Democratic candidates for Senate because Sen. [Richard] Shelby and Sen. Sessions, they were so strongly ensconced in their positions that the Democratic nominee was most often a more fringe candidate and not taken very seriously, Taylor said. Jones doesnt fall in that category  he has a background as a prosecutor, he has linkage to Civil Rights prosecution for the bombers in Birmingham. This makes him a more serious and significant candidate.

Openly critical of Trump, Jones promised to fight for pro-abortion policies, tackling student loan debt and raising the minimum wage.

Even prior to the allegations of Moore groping a teenage girl, Democrats reportedly felt optimistic about Jones chances of winning in a historically red state. And after the allegations, some polls  such as a Fox News poll conducted days before the election  had Jones in the lead.

While Jones initially stayed away from the accusations against Moore, the Democratic candidate came out swinging during a speech the week before the election.

I damn sure believe that I have done my part to ensure that men who hurt little girls should go to jail and not the United States Senate, Jones said.

Jones was endorsed by prominent Democrats, including former Vice President Joe Biden and Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga. In addition, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., campaigned for Jones, as did former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick.

Jones also received a surprising financial backing from a Senate Republican  Jeff Flake. The Arizona senator tweeted a photo of a check made out to Jones with the subject line saying, Country over Party.

And Trump, although he endorsed Moore, tweeted his congratulations to Jones.

Congratulations to Doug Jones on a hard fought victory. The write-in votes played a very big factor, but a win is a win, Trump said. The people of Alabama are great, and the Republicans will have another shot at this seat in a very short period of time. It never ends!

Prior to the election, Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, D, encouraged Jones to stay the course and not get bogged down with the allegations against Moore.

Getting involved in the allegations, that doesnt bring jobs to Alabama. That doesnt bring opportunity or economic prosperity to our state. That doesnt help education or health care. It doesnt help our infrastructure, Daniels told Fox News. Why would he focus on that?

Daniels also praised Jones for being a fighter for his entire career. He said Jones would bring unity and civility to the Senate and would work with lawmakers across the aisle to better Alabama.

Roy Moore, Republican

Called the Ayatollah of Alabama by critics who believe he too closely marries his political and judicial responsibilities with his religious beliefs, Judge Roy Moore emerged as the leader of the Republicans vying for the open Senate seat. In a special primary election earlier this year, Moore defeated incumbent Sen. Luther Strange who was tapped to fill the position when then-Sen. Jeff Sessions became the U.S. attorney general.

In the primary, Moore, 70, garnered the support of conservative darlings, such as former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson. Trump initially backed Strange but would eventually throw his weight behind Moore. Trumps former adviser, Steve Bannon, also campaigned for Moore.

Moores political past is mired in controversy, which he used to his advantage during the primary election. He was twice removed from Alabamas Supreme Court. The first time, he was dismissed when he refused to move a boulder-sized Ten Commandments monument from the statehouse; he was permanently suspended in 2016 after he instructed probate judges to deny marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

The Supreme Court incidents worked in his favor given that Alabamians are generally very conservative and religious, Taylor said. And his refusal to bend to the federal government is in line with a tradition set in the state by the former longtime pro-segregationist Gov. George Wallace, he said.

Hes very outspoken in a variety of ways, Taylor said of Moore. Hes a little more reflective of those more populist candidates weve seen of late, including the president.

Prior to the election, Taylor thought it possible that voters in the deep red state of Alabama could look the other way.

In some ways, that Roy Moore has a very strong religious element to his politics is not substantially out of the mainstream for the state, Taylor said.

"He's very outspoken in a variety of ways."  Dr. Steven Taylor, Troy University political science professor

After Moores primary victory, Trump called him a really great guy who ran a fantastic race. Many Trump supporters turned out to campaign for Moore during the primary, despite the presidents backing of a different candidate.

Moores judicial past took a backseat, however, when the Washington Post reported that four women accused Moore of engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior with them while they were teenagers and he was in his 30s.

Leigh Corfman, now 58, alleged that Moore first approached her in a courtroom in 1979 when she was 14 years old. Eventually, Moore took her to his house, took off her shirt and pants, touched her private parts and guided her hand to his underwear, she said. The two did not have sexual intercourse, and he took her home when she asked, Corfman said.

After the Washington Post's initial report, several more women accused Moore of being sexually inappropriate.

Moore vehemently denied the accusations, calling them baseless and the very definition of fake news.

It seems that in the political arena, to say that something is not true is simply not good enough. So let me be clear. I have never provided alcohol to minors, and I have never engaged in sexual misconduct, Moore said in a statement provided to Fox News.

He also told Fox News Sean Hannity that he generally didnt date women who were teenagers when he was in his 30s and would not date someone without her mothers permission. Moore admitted its possible that he did go on dates with one of the accusers in the Washington Post report who said she was 17 when Moore kissed her.

That line of defense was not as strident or strong as one might expect, Taylor said.

Despite numerous Republican leaders backing away from Moore, Trump tweeted on Dec. 12  Election Day  that Moore will always vote for us.

The people of Alabama will do the right thing, Trump tweeted while encouraging his followers to vote for Moore.

But following Moores loss, the president noted that he originally endorsed Strange because he knew that Moore will not be able to win the General Election.

I was right! Roy worked hard but the deck was stacked against him, Trump said.

And on Dec. 23, Trump again said on Twitter that he said [Moore] would lose in Alabama and touted his initial support of Strange.

A week before the election, the Republican National Committee began to support Moore again, just three weeks after it pulled its financial support for the beleaguered candidate.

But despite his loss, Moore didnt give up. He filed an election complaint on Dec. 27, that said alleged voter fraud was so prevalent, it improperly altered the outcome of this election. The complaint calls for a thorough investigation and is meant to block the certification of Jones until a probe is completed, Moores campaign said.

A judge rejected Moores attempt to challenge the election.

According to the election results from earlier in December, Moore lost to Jones by a margin of 21,000 votes.

If Moore had won, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said he would immediately have an issue with the Ethics Committee.

Fox News Lukas Mikelionis and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
White House attorney Ty Cobb was allegedly caught spilling the beans about the Russia investigation to some of his colleagues at a popular Washington steakhouse, The New York Times reported on Sunday.

Cobb, within earshot of a New York Times reporter, was heard talking openly with John Dowd, another Washington lawyer, about some of the inner tension surrounding the case.

Cobb also mentioned a colleague whom he blamed for some of these earlier (media) leaks, and who he said tried to push Jared Kushner (Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser) out.

On a roll, Dowd also took a swipe at White House lawyer Don McGahn, accusing him of keeping a couple of documents locked in a safe.

Trumps legal team has been at odds over how much to cooperate with the special counsel investigating Russias meddling in the 2016 election.

"The White House counsel's office is being very conservative with this stuff," Cobb reportedly told Dowd at BLT Steak in D.C. "Our view is we're not hiding anything."

BLT Steak is close to the White House. Its also next door to the Washington bureau of The New York Times.

Dowd represents Trump but doesnt work in the White House. Cobb is a White House employee.
President Trump was mum ahead of a key meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about whether he intends to tear up the Iran nuclear deal bitterly opposed by the Jewish state.

You'll be seeing very soon," Trump told reporters.

Netanyahu has urged Trump to exit the 2015 international accord, in which Iran agreed to curtail its nuclear weapons program in exchange for the easing of economic sanctions.

Trump has been critical of the deal amid concerns about Iran not following the rules, but has so far made no clear effort to pull out the United States.

The world leader are meeting privately at the U.N.s annual General Assembly meeting, one day before Trump delivers his first presidential speech before the 193-member nation body.

The Trump administration has also tried to broker a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.

Trump said Monday at U.N. headquarters in New York that he believes there is a "good chance" of success.

"The Trump administration would like to see it," he said. "I think it can happen."

Netanyahu, after a chilly relationship with former President Barack Obama, lauded Trumps efforts toward Israel, saying he has acted with clarity and conviction."

He also expressed concern about what he called Irans growing aggression in the region."
A 53-year-old Kansas man missing for eight months has been found dead inside his truck at a busy airport  and now his family wants some answers.

Relatives of Randy Potter, along with their attorney and a private investigator, believe the former T-Mobile manager died shortly after leaving his Lenexa home on Jan. 17, the last day he was seen alive. Police in Kansas City found his body Tuesday after a foul odor coming from his white 2014 Dodge Ram pickup truck was reported at Kansas City International Airport.

Potters body, which was found in the drivers seat, was so badly decomposed that investigators couldnt initially determine the gender or race, but he was later identified and apparently died by suicide, the Kansas City Star reports.

How is it possible, in America? Potters wife, Carolina, told the newspaper. A truck sitting there for eight months? He could have been found a lot sooner if everybody had done their job.

Potters truck was parked on the street level in front of the airports Terminal B, where travelers can park for both short- and long-term parking. Carolina Potter is now demanding answers as to how the body of her husband sat undisturbed in a busy parking lot and has hired a lawyer to investigate exactly what went wrong.

Its amazing that he wasnt found in June or July, lawyer John Picerno told the paper. Our goal is to find out what happened and why. What was done, what wasnt done. And to try to make sure that this doesnt happen again to somebody.

Potters daughter, Nichole, told WDAF she found it disgusting that her fathers body sat inside his truck at the airport for that long.

A spokesman for Kansas City told the station that officials are now working with S-P Plus, which manages the airports 25,000 parking spaces, to find out what exactly what happened.

The city of Kansas City and its Aviation Department express our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Randy Potter, spokesman Chris Hernandez said in a statement. We wish them peace during this difficult time.

Some of Potters relatives, however, say the delay in finding his body is unacceptable, calling it a total disregard for human life.

Potters niece, Melissa Alderman, told the Kansas City Star that she flew from Florida to assist with the search in the days after Potter disappeared. She eventually got the idea to check parking lots at Kansas City International Airport. Alderman even gave Potters license plate number to authorities there in hopes of locating his truck, which would be found if it was indeed parked there, she recalled an airport police official saying. Shes now livid that her instincts were correct but were seemingly not heeded by authorities.

Losing a loved one is hard, Alderman told the newspaper. Losing a loved one to suicide is 10 times harder. Knowing that they sat there and baked for eight months  I cant breathe  How many thousands of people drove by the vehicle? How many people walked by? Its disgusting. And its infuriating. Its a total disregard for human life.

This article originally appeared on the New York Post.
Maria weakened to a tropical storm by Thursday morning as it continues to move away from the U.S. east coast.

Maria had been briefly downgraded to a tropical storm earlier this week before it regained strength and became a Category 1 storm on Wednesday. Forecasters do not expect much of a change in Maria's strength over the next few days, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The storm made landfall in Puerto Rico last week as a powerful Category 4 hurricane, destroying hundreds of homes and knocking out power to the entire U.S. territory of 3.4 million people. The storm's center passed near the U.S. Virgin Island of Saint Croix.

Here's what you should know about Marias path.

Where is Maria today?

Maria is approximately 275 miles east-northeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C., and 470 miles northwest of Bermuda, according to the National Hurricane Center's 8 a.m. ET advisory Thursday.

HURRICANE WARNING VS. WATCH: HOW ARE THEY DIFFERENT?

The storm is traveling east-northeast at 8 mph with maximum sustained winds of about 70 mph, the National Hurricane Center said.

What else should I know about the storm?

There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. All storm surge warnings have also been discontinued as of Thursday.

North Carolina previously issued a mandatory evacuation for visitors to much of the Outer Banks. Officials said Thursday that they hope to lift the evacuation order on two islands in the Outer Banks soon.

Maria already ravaged the Caribbean nation of Dominica, leaving widespread devastation, according to Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.

WHAT IS THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON SCALE?

"So far we have lost all what money can buy and replace," Skerrit said.

The confirmed toll from Maria jumped to at least 49 on Monday, including 16 dead in Puerto Rico. No injuries have been reported on the U.S. mainland from Maria after it lashed the Outer Banks with strong waves and rising waters.

When Maria hit Puerto Rico, it was the third-strongest storm to make landfall in the U.S., based on its central pressure. It was even stronger than Irma when it hit the Florida Keys.

Saint Croix, largely spared the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Irma just weeks ago, this time experienced five hours of hurricane force winds, U.S. Virgin Islands Gov. Kenneth Mapp said.

Residents in Saint Croix told Fox News that the storm left them without power and turned roads into mudslides. Barges were also destroyed in the storm, residents said, causing concern not only for Saint Croix, but for nearby Saint Thomas and Saint John, which had been receiving aid from the larger of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Fox News' Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Zoe Szathmary and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
An arrest has been made in the 25-year-old unsolved murder case of a middle school teachers aide.

Gary E. Schara was arrested by police Saturday and charged with murder, aggravated rape and kidnapping of Lisa Ziegert, who first went missing in 1992, the Hampden District Attorney said during a news conference on Monday.

I am informing the public that the search for Lisas assailant is over. DNA testing and analysis has confirmed the identity of Lisas killer, the district attorney said.

Ziegert, who was from Agawam, Mass., was working at her night job at a gift shop when she disappeared in April 1992, Fox 25 Boston reported.

NYPD USING NEW DNA TEST TO IDENTIFY DISMEMBERED MAN

Four days later, she reportedly was found raped and stabbed to death in a wooded area, about four miles from her job.

Police gathered evidence from the crime scene at the time of the murder, but they were unable to identify officially a suspect until now, reports said.

Although, the district attorneys office did note Monday that Schara had been a person of interest since 1993, Fox 25 Boston reported.

The case reportedly became a joint investigation with the Agawam Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, the state crime lab, and the FBI.

Police made headway in the case after distributing a computer-generated picture last year, using DNA found at the scene to estimate what a possible suspect would look like, reports said.

Investigators said a person close to Schara gave them handwritten confession notes he had allegedly written, Fox 25 Boston reported.

Schara was arrested at a medical facility in Connecticut and is in the custody of the Connecticut State Police, the district attorney said. Authorities are currently waiting to find out when hell be returned to Massachusetts.

Click here for more from Fox 25 Boston.
A scene out of a Halloween thriller came to life on Mississippi street Sunday, when police said a man wearing a Jason Voorhees mask -- such as the one made famous in the "Friday the 13th" franchise -- opened fire on three men, killing one.

Jackson Police Department Sgt. Derrick Jordan told The Clarion-Ledger the suspect came from behind an apartment building and shot the three victims before running away.

"I don't want to speculate on why he was wearing a mask, but ultimately it was to hide his identity, that's for sure," Jordan said.

Authorities identified the victim who died as 30-year-old Kendrick Hughes. The two other unidentified male victims were taken to a hospital, Mississippi News Now reported.

Some residents in the apartment complex said they were on edge about the mask.

"It's crazy that the dude had a Jason mask on," Deontravies Williamson told Mississippi News Now. "I wonder...it's gotta be deeper than that, or something."

Other residents, however, didn't think much of the latest shooting, which was the city's 44th homicide of 2017.

"I ain't shocked because it's happened a lot, since I've been little," Jayvon Carter told Mississippi News Now. "That's just how Jackson goes."

Police said they don't have a motive for the triple shooting and are still working to identify the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Jackson Police Department at (601) 960-1234.
Hurricane Jose continued to head up the U.S. East Coast, causing dangerous surf and rip currents as Tropical Storm Warnings were issued Monday for parts of southern New England.

Jose was centered about 265 miles east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C., and was moving north at 9 mph with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, the National Hurricane Center said in its 11 a.m. advisory.

The storm is not expected to make landfall, but a Tropical Storm Warning was issued from Watch Hill, R.I., to Hull, Mass., including for Block Island, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. A Tropical Storm Watch has been posted elsewhere along the coast from Delaware to Rhode Island.

The storm is expected to bring high surf and heavy rain to the East Coast.

"These swells are likely to cause dangerous surf and rip current conditions for the next several days in these areas," the NHC said.

The ocean washed over parts of North Carolina's Outer Banks as Jose passed well to the east, and five people were knocked off a coastal jetty in Rhode Island by high surf caused by the storm.

Capt. Nelson Upright of the Narragansett Fire Department told WPRI-TV the group swept off the rocks suffered injuries ranging from minor to pretty major.

Firefighters had to get into waist-deep water to get the victims ashore to be loaded into stretchers for transport, but no firefighters or police were injured despite the rough surf.

Its not worth losing your life over trying to catch a fish or go look at the waves, Upright told WPRI.

Further north in Massachusetts, officials are warning residents to begin securing property, make sure generators are working, and check if cars are gassed up and boats are either removed from the water or securely anchored.

Scituate Fire Chief John Murphy told Boston 25 News the town is also listing hotels online, if residents feel the need to evacuate. A town official told Boston 24 News the high school would also be used as an emergency shelter, if needed.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Two more Navy officers were fired after a series of deadly warship accidents in the Pacific this summer involving the 7th Fleet, a senior U.S. defense official confirmed Monday to Fox News.

The firings of Rear Adm. Charles Williams, commander of Combined Task Force 70, and Capt. Jeff Bennett, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 15, now bring the total number to seven U.S. Navy officials who received punishment for the crashes of the USS Fitzgerald and USS John S McCain, which left 17 sailors dead.

Four accidents have occurred in the Pacific since late January.

The majority of ships operating in the fleet werent certified to conduct basic operations at sea related to war fighting, according to U.S. Navy records released this month.

As of late June, eight of the 11 cruisers and destroyers in the 7th Fleet, and their crew members, werent certified by the U.S. Navy to conduct mobility seamanship, or basic steering of the ship, according to U.S. Navy records provided to two House Armed Services subcommittees.

The Navy also said that seven of those ships had expired training certification in the areas of cruise missile defense and surface warfare, which test a crews ability to defend a ship or to conduct attacks.

Last month, the Navy said it would review the 7th Fleet's performance, including personnel, navigation capabilities, maintenance, equipment, surface warfare training, munitions and certifications.

Navy Adm. John Richardson, the chief of naval operations, said the review will be conducted with the help of the Navy's office of the inspector general, the safety center and private companies that make equipment used by sailors.

Richardson is set to testify before Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, on Tuesday. The USS John S McCain is named for the senators father and grandfather, naval commanders who served during World War II.

Fox News' Jennifer Griffin and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Boston College student who was attacked at Marseilles train station in France on Sunday has forgiven the assailant who attacked her and her friends with acid.

In a Facebook post following the attack, Courtney Siverling wrote that she prays that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of Jesus and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him.

Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out to see if Im ok and/or has been praying for us, Siverling wrote.

Siverling, along with other Americans Charlotte Kaufman, Michelle Krug and Kelsey Kosten, were hospitalized after a woman attacked them with acid.

Two of the women were treated for shock, and all four women were released from the hospital later in the day. Siverling said she was not hurt.

Krug took to Facebook to note the women were doing okay, and said the attacker threw a weak solution of hydrochloric acid at us. She also wrote that people should consider praying for their attacker because Mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized.

The women thanked French authorities and the U.S. Consulate for aiding them after the incident.

The tourists, all in their 20s and part of Boston Colleges Class of 2019, were in Europe for study abroad programs.

The assailant, who was arrested after the attack, was reportedly a 41-year-old woman with a history of mental health problems. French officials confirmed to Fox News that the incident was not terror-related.
Jose, once a hurricane threatening the Caribbean, is now weakened to a post-tropical cyclone storm, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Jose will "meander" off the southern coast of New England for a few days as it slowly travels to the west.

Here's what you need to know.

Where is Jose now?

Jose is approximately 115 miles south-southeast of Nantucket, Mass., the National Hurricane Centers 8 a.m. ET advisory said Friday. It has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph.

FLORIDA SEES LOOTING, BVI PRISONERS ESCAPE IN IRMA AFTERMATH

Jose was downgraded to a tropical storm last week, earlier than initially expected by forecasters, but then became a Category 1 hurricane a day later. It has since been downgraded back to a tropical storm.

What else should I know about the hurricane?

Shortly after Irma ravaged the Caribbean, Jose formed, threatening already wrecked houses, businesses and shelters with a major loss of communication.

Jose passed north of the Caribbean islands and Puerto Rico last week as a Category 4 hurricane, a situation, the Netherlands navy said, that was better than expected.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Block Island, R.I., as well as Nantucket and Marthas Vineyard, both in Massachusetts.

The warning also applies to a stretch of the state going from Woods Hole to Sagmore Beach that includes Cape Cod, according to forecasters.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In Idlib province in northwestern Syria, deemed the last government stronghold in the conflict-butchered country, civilians caught in the crossfire of escalating poverty and hopelessness have resorted to selling whatever they can to survive  including body parts.

I need money, I borrowed money from people to get a fake foot and they need their money back, Ghazwan, a married 31-year-old father of two young daughters, told Fox News. Therefore, I want to sell my foot.

Two years ago, he was caught in an aerial bombardment attack by Syrian regime planes and his leg was amputated below the knee. For the surgery, along with the seven following operations, medicines, and a prosthetic limb, Ghazwan borrowed money from friends and family eager to help. But with the deteriorating humanitarian crisis and lack of jobs, nearly everyone needs money.

His eyes glazed with tears, Ghazwan remembered for a moment life before the war. He worked on a ship as a chef. Now, he said, all he feels is sadness and depression.

I feel that I am alone, Ghazwan noted. He said he is trying to pick up jobs here and there  and his wife and children are also trying to find work  but his limb is the only thing of value left to sell, and he doesn't want to leave. He doesn't want to become a refugee.

Please tell the world to stop the war in Syria and dont forget us disabled people and poor people, Ghazwan stressed. Please stop acting as animals and killing each other.

Ghazwan has been posting advertisements on social media and asking around the neighborhood over the past couple of weeks in the hopes of finding a potential buyer able to meet the needs of his $6,000 price tag. But so far, despite the many missing limbs six-and-a-half years into the war, he hasnt had any luck.

INSIDE IRAN: WESTERN TOURISM A GROWING GOVERNMENT MONEY-MAKER

Yet Ghazwan is hardly alone in his grim quest. The selling of body parts has become something of an accepted practice both in the war zone and among Syrian refugees. The trade of illegal organs in neighboring countries  especially Lebanon  has burgeoned over the past couple of years, with desperate refugees exploited by surgeons and sellers willing to make a quick buck to feed their family and survive.

There are people who sell one of their kidneys so they can run away from this country and try to live a better life with their children, said Idlib-based human rights activist, Suhaib Monzer Zakour. Many people sell everything they possibly can to reach a safer place. Some of them have got absolutely no money left to rent a room, so they have to try and find a tent for displaced people on the border.

Idlibs population has ballooned from its pre-war estimate of fewer than 1.5 million to more than 2 million  particularly as other former rebel holds such as Aleppo and Homs fell to government forces. The rise has subsequently deepened the poverty, chaos and displacement  at least half have no home  inside the already bomb-battled governorate.

The city also continues to be overrun by Al Qaeda-linked jihadists, as the extremist faction Hayat Tahir al Sham has seized control of most the city over the past few months and has set up its own harsh interpretations of Islamic law. Its escalating dominance could see the U.S. dragged further into the quagmire of the long-running civil war, given the threat that Al Qaeda poses to the homeland.

AS U.S. CLOSE TO VICTORY VS. ISIS IN SYRIA, AL QAEDA TAKES TERRITORIAL CONTROL

Despite the militant grip, many inside Idlib describe it as akin to anarchy  each to his or her own, a freefall of sorts to survive, with few employment and education prospects and an alarming lack of goods and services.

However, civilians may at least have some temporary reprieve from bombs falling and bullets flying. Syria and its allies Russia and Iran, along with Turkey  which opposes the Syrian regime  agreed on Friday to establish de-escalation zones for at least six months in Idlib, as well as parts of Latakia, Aleppo and Hama provinces.

Ankaras presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin expressed confidence that the deal would allow for humanitarian aid to be delivered inside the province despite Al Qaedas control. Last month, Turkey stated that it was restricting the flow of non-humanitarian aid into Idlib given the dominance of a terrorist organization.

SYRIAS SECRET CAVES SERVE AS HOSPITALS IN A FINAL LIFELINE TO SAVE VICTIMS

Activists confirmed to Fox News that around 18 Turkish army vehicles arrived to the Rihaniyah area on the Turkish-Syrian border early Sunday, where they're expected to move deeper into Syrian territory. The agreement, while embraced by some, also has many civilians worrying that fighting could break out at any moment between Turkish and Syrian soldiers.

Since March 2011, the Syrian war has killed up to half a million people and displaced more than 10 million. It has been deemed the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II.
U.S. Air Force bombers and stealth fighter jets flew over the Korean Peninsula Sunday in a show of force aimed at Kim Jong Uns regime, two days after North Korea launched a second intermediate-range missile over Japan  and less than a month after the rogue nation conducted its sixth nuclear test.

A pair of Air Force bombers and four stealth fighter jets conducted the live-fire training mission over the Korean Peninsula, the U.S. military's Pacific Command reported. Two B-1 bombers from Guam and four Marine Corps F-35 stealth fighter jets  along with allied fighter jets from South Korea and Japan  took part in the flight.

The move comes in response to North Koreas Friday intermediate-range missile test, which flew over Japan  the second such test to do so in less than a month. The missile was launched from Sunan, the site of Pyongyangs international airport, and flew over northern Japan before landing in the Pacific Ocean. It flew 2,300 miles, ostensibly placing the U.S. territory of Guam in range of a missile attack.

The volatile dictatorship on Monday scoffed at the United Nations Security Councils condemnation of the missile test and vowed to continue its goal of becoming a nuclear state. The U.N. Security Council accused North Korea of undermining regional peace and causing grave security concerns around the world.

"The increased moves of the U.S. and its vassal forces to impose sanctions and pressure on the DPRK will only increase our pace towards the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force," North Koreas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released by the states official Korean Central News Agency.

Kim Jong Un also said Saturday his regime would complete its final goal to establish the equilibrium of real force with the U.S. and make the U.S. rulers dare not talk about military option or [North Korea].

President Trump, though, mocked the regimes leader in a series of Sunday tweets, referring to Kim Jong Un as Rocket Man.

I spoke with President Moon [Jae-in] of South Korea last night, Trump wrote. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!

Trump appeared to be referencing the U.N. sanctions against North Korea banning all natural gas liquids and condensates imports and capped crude oil imports at the level of the last 12 months. The Trump administration initially pushed for a ban on all oil and natural gas exports to North Korea, along with a freeze on all foreign financial assets of Kim Jong Un and the government.

National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster told "Fox News Sunday" the U.S. must "move with a great deal of urgency" in dealing with North Korea. Trump and South Koreas President Moon seem to agree on tougher sanctions against North Korea in an attempt to curb its nuclear ambitions; however, China has criticized the U.S. for putting what it views as undue pressure on Beijing to rein in Kim Jong Un.

"The so-called 'China's responsibility theory' is essentially moral kidnapping," the People's Daily, the official paper of Chinas Communist Party, said in a commentary. It also noted that sanctions should not harm "legitimate economic and trade exchanges between North Korea and the outside world" and the lives of everyday people.
Authorities named one of two Middle Eastern refugees believed to be responsible for last week's London subway bombing, as new details emerged about their troubled time being fostered by a British couple previously honored by Queen Elizabeth II.



Yahyah Farroukh, 21, was identified as one of the suspects being held by London police, Sky News reported. Farroukh was arrested at a fried chicken shop, where he worked, in Hounslow in west London Saturday night. Suleman Sarwar, 43, who owns the chicken shop, said the 21-year-old suspect was arrested after he finished his shift.

He was very normal, Sarwar told Sky News. I don't know how long he worked here. It was surprising seeing him on the news.

Farroukhs Facebook profile indicated he was from Damascus and studied English in West Thamas College between 2013 and 2015. He was living in Stanwell, Surrey, where officials conducted a search on Sunday, but also most recently was registered to live with Penelope and Ronald Jones, who were honored by the queen for fostering more than 200 children  including refugees from Middle Eastern countries affected by conflicts. Another unidentified 18-year-old man who was arrested earlier in the day at Dover ferry port, where boats to France leave, was also fostered by the couple.

Both men are being held under the Terrorism Act and questioned by London police about Fridays attack, when an improvised explosive device partially detonated aboard a subway train at Parsons Green station during morning rush hour, injuring 30 people.

But trouble with the couples foster children was reportedly visible beforehand  when police visited the Sunbury house two or three weeks ago, according to neighbor Stephen Griffiths.

"The police were there multiple times over the span of about a month  a few times a week," Griffiths said. "You always think foster kids are going to have a bit of trouble, but you don't think terrorism.

The 18-year-old man is believed to be an Iraqi orphan who moved to the United Kingdom when he was 15 years old, after his parents died. The man was reportedly a problem for the foster parents and they had been contacting officials before the attack, according to the Telegraph. He lived with the Joneses, but hadnt been arrested in the last couple of weeks despite the police activity at the Jones house, a Metropolitan Police spokeswoman told Sky News.

The news of frequent police visits could shed light on a tweet sent soon after the attack by President Trump in which he appeared to criticize British authorities for not acting sooner to prevent the attack.

Another attack in London by a loser terrorist. These are sick and demented people who were in the sights of Scotland Yard. Must be proactive! Trump wrote.

Images of the 18-year-old suspect, who is believed to have planted the bomb, have not emerged.

ITV News, however, obtained CCTV footage showing a man near Joneses Sunbury house Friday morning carrying a bag from Lidl supermarket. Images after the device detonated on Friday showed it was carried in a Lidl bag.

ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack, but British officials said theres no proof yet the terror group was actively involved in the planning, preparation or carrying out of the attack. British Prime Minister Theresa May raised the citys terror threat level to critical  meaning an attack is imminent  but downgraded it Sunday to severe  meaning an attack is highly likely.

"Severe still means that an attack is highly likely, so I would urge everybody to be vigilant but not alarmed," Home Secretary Amber Rudd said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Although cryptocurrencies have been studied and argued for a long time, they are just now becoming known as financial tools t
A few years ago, NASA senior space scientist David Morrison debunked an apocalyptic claim as a hoax.

No, there's no such thing as a planet called Nibiru, he said. No, it's not a brown dwarf surrounded by planets, as iterations of the theory suggest. No, it's not on a collision course toward Earth. And yes, people should "get over it."

But the theory has been getting renewed attention recently. Added to it is the precise date of the astronomical event leading to Earth's destruction. And that, according to David Meade, is in six days - Sept. 23, 2017. Unsealed, an evangelical Christian publication, foretells the Rapture in a viral, four-minute YouTube video, complete with special effects and ominous doomsday soundtrack. It's called "September 23, 2017: You Need to See This."

Why Sept. 23, 2017?

Meade's prediction is based largely on verses and numerical codes in the Bible. He's honed in on one number: 33.

"Jesus lived for 33 years. The name Elohim, which is the name of God to the Jews, was mentioned 33 times [in the Bible]," Meade told The Washington Post. "It's a very biblically significant, numerologically significant number. I'm talking astronomy. I'm talking the Bible . . . and merging the two."

And Sept. 23 is 33 days since the Aug. 21 total solar eclipse, which Meade believes is an omen.

He points to the Book of Revelation, which he said describes the image that will appear in the sky on that day, when Nibiru is supposed to rear its ugly head, eventually bringing fire, storms and other types of destruction.

The book describes a woman "clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head" who gives birth to a boy who will "rule all the nations with an iron scepter" while she is threatened by a red seven-headed dragon. The woman then grows the wings of an eagle and is swallowed up by the earth.

The belief, as previously described by Gary Ray, a writer for Unsealed, is that the constellation Virgo - representing the woman - will be clothed in sunlight, in a position that is over the moon and under nine stars and three planets. The planet Jupiter, which will have been inside Virgo - in her womb, in Ray's interpretation - will move out of Virgo, as though she is giving birth.

To make clear, Meade said he's not saying the world will end Saturday. Instead, he claims, the prophesy in the Book of Revelation will manifest that day, leading to a series of catastrophic events that will happen over the course of weeks.

"The world is not ending, but the world as we know it is ending," he said, adding later: "A major part of the world will not be the same the beginning of October."

Meade's prediction has been dismissed as a hoax not only by NASA scientists, but also by people of faith.

Ed Stetzer, a pastor and executive director of Wheaton College's Billy Graham Center, first took issue with how Meade is described in some media articles.

"There's no such thing as a Christian numerologist," he told The Post. "You basically got a made-up expert in a made-up field talking about a made-up event. . . . It sort of justifies that there's a special secret number codes in the Bible that nobody believes."

Meade said he never referred to himself as a Christian numerologist. He's a researcher, he said, and he studied astronomy at a university in Kentucky, though he declined to say which one, citing safety reasons. His website says he worked in forensic investigations and spent 10 years working for Fortune 1000 companies. He's also written books. The most recent one is called "Planet X - The 2017 Arrival."

Stetzer said that while numbers do have significance in the Bible, they shouldn't be used to make sweeping predictions about planetary motions and the end of Earth.

"Whenever someone tells you they have found a secret number code in the Bible, end the conversation," he wrote in an article published Friday in Christianity Today. "Everything else he or she says can be discounted."

That is not to say that Christians don't believe in the Bible's prophesies, Stetzer said, but baseless theories that are repeated and trivialized embarrass people of faith.

"We do believe some odd things," he said. "That Jesus is coming back, that he will set things right in the world, and no one knows the day or the hour."

The doomsday date was initially predicted to be in May 2003, according to NASA. Then it was moved to Dec. 21, 2012, the date that the Mayan calendar, as some believed, marked the apocalypse.

Morrison, the NASA scientist, has given simple explanations debunking the claim that a massive planet is on course to destroy Earth. If Nibiru is, indeed, as close as conspiracy theorists believe to striking Earth, astronomers, and anyone really, would've already seen it.

"It would be bright. It would be easily visible to the naked eye. If it were up there, you could see it. All of us could see it. . . . If Nibiru were real and it were a planet with a substantial mass, then it would already be perturbing the orbits of Mars and Earth. We would see changes in those orbits due to this rogue object coming in to the intersolar system," Morrison said in a video.

Doomsday believers also say that Nibiru is on a 3,600-year orbit. That means it had already come through the solar system in the past, which means we should be looking at an entirely different solar system today, Morrison said.

"Its gravity would've messed up the orbits of the inner planets, the Earth, Venus, Mars, probably would've stripped the moon away completely," he said. "Instead, in the intersolar system, we see planets with stable orbits. We see the moon going around the Earth."

And if Nibiru is not a planet and is, in fact, a brown dwarf, as some claims suggest - again, we would've already seen it.

"Everything I've said would be worse with a massive object like a brown dwarf," Morrison said. "That would've been tracked by astronomers for a decade or more, and it would already have really affected planetary objects."

Some call Nibiru "Planet X," as Meade did in the title of his book. Morrison said that's a name astronomers give to planets or possible objects that have not been found. For example, when space scientists were searching for a planet beyond Neptune, it was called Planet X. And once it was found, it became Pluto.

Stetzer, the pastor, encouraged Christians to be critical, especially in an information era marred with fake news stories.

"It's simply fake news that a lot of Christians believe the world will end on September 23," Stetzer wrote. "Yet, it is still a reminder that we need to think critically about all the news."

He took issue with a Fox News story with a headline that appears to give credence to the doomsday theory - and was published in the Science section under the label "Planets."

"Every time end-of-the-world predictions resurface in the media, it is important that we ask ourselves, 'Is this helpful?' " Stetzer wrote. "Is peddling these falsehoods a good way to contribute to meaningful, helpful discussions about the end of times?"

- - -

The Washington Post's Julie Zauzmer contributed to this story.
The Stafford Sheriffs Office is seeking the publics help in identifying a driver who left the scene of an accident Saturday after striking an 11-year-old boy.

Sheriffs 1st Lt. Eric Quinn said took place just after 3 p.m. on Cynthias Place in the England Run North apartment complex. Quinn said the boy was crossing the road on his bicycle when he was struck by a blue pickup truck.

It was reported that the truck stopped briefly before leaving the scene. The boy was taken to Stafford Hospital Center, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released.

The vehicle was described by witnesses as a dark blue crew-cab style pickup truck with a Philadelphia Eagles sticker on the left side of the back window.

The driver was a young Hispanic man with black hair wearing rainbow-colored sunglasses on his head.

Quinn said there was a woman in the front seat with a child sitting in her lap and a man in the back behind the driver.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriffs Office at 540/658-4400 or Crime Solvers at 540/659-2020.
An Ohio man who tried to discipline his 6-year-old daughter by chasing her around in a clown mask has been charged after she ran screaming to a stranger's apartment - prompting that neighbor to fire a gunshot into the air, police say.

The incident occurred just before 10 p.m. Saturday, when 25-year-old Vernon Barrett Jr. donned a clown mask and began chasing his young daughter outside their apartment in Boardman Township, a suburb of Youngstown, Ohio.

It was supposed to be a prank, Barrett later told police, a way to get the child to behave without resorting to spanking. A police report did not specify why he was trying to discipline his daughter that day.

Instead, the frightened child ran to a female stranger's car nearby, jumped inside and said she was being chased by a clown, police said. That woman later told police that the man wearing the clown mask pulled the child out of her car. Unsure of what was happening, the woman called 911. ("I don't want to be named," the witness told The Washington Post on Monday when reached by phone, "but I can tell you it scared the bejeezus out of me.")

In the time it took officers to arrive, the child ran into the adjacent apartment of 48-year-old Dion Santiago, declared she was scared and asked whether she could stay there because a clown was chasing her, according to a police report.

"Santiago turned off the lights and looked out his apartment window and observed Barrett standing outside of the building with a clown mask on," responding officer Joseph O'Grady wrote in his incident report. " . . . [Santiago] grabbed his firearm and fired a shot out of his window."

When officers responded to the scene, Santiago and Barrett were yelling at each other - the former still standing at his window and the latter still wearing a clown mask - and the girl remained too afraid to come out, police said. The child was identified in the incident report only by her initials.

"I attempted to tell J.B. that it was OK and that it was her father," O'Grady wrote. "However, J.B. ran into the back bedroom of the apartment."

She eventually emerged after a woman in Santiago's apartment escorted her out, police said. O'Grady wrote that he had to physically separate Barrett and Santiago and call for backup because the two neighbors were getting into a heated argument, with Barrett insisting that Santiago had fired his gun at him.

Barrett was charged with child endangerment and inducing panic; Santiago was charged with using weapons while intoxicated, police said. Both were released and are scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.

The child was placed in the custody of Barrett's girlfriend while Barrett was detained, police said.

Barrett told officers that his daughter's mother was in prison for child endangerment after she had stepped on the child and broken several of her ribs, according to the incident report.

"Barrett said due to this he cannot discipline his daughter and reported they have been having behavior problems with J.B. at school and home," the report stated. "Barrett said that he decided to use the clown mask into scaring her to behave" but that the "prank" got out of hand.

Santiago, meanwhile, defended his actions to police, saying he was with his family when the 6-year-old burst into their apartment and startled them.

"Santiago's son [redacted] spoke to officers and provided a written statement and said due to the news and Internet coverage of people dressed as clowns chasing people he got nervous and scared when he looked outside the window and saw a man with a clown mask on," the police report stated.

Around this time last year, several creepy clown sightings were reported nationwide, sending some communities into panic and even prompting a school to shut down. Though most of the reports turned out to be hoaxes, the supposed sightings - and copycat pranks - prompted law-enforcement agencies to issue stern statements about clowns in general.

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, a psychologist who has written several books on parenting and child development, told The Post that it wasn't surprising that the child in Ohio wouldn't have been able to process that the man chasing her in the clown mask was her father.

"Especially when we're really frightened, we're not able to think clearly. We're not able to process new information. We're not able to understand someone else's perspective," Kennedy-Moore said. "A 6-year-old's ability to distinguish between fantasy and reality is a little shaky. For instance, it's common for a 6-year-old to tell the teacher that mommy's having a baby but she's not - but the kid really wishes she were."

The fact that it was a clown chasing the girl probably exacerbated the situation, the psychologist added.

"There's something very creepy about clowns to children, because the faces don't move and the features are kind of exaggerated," Kennedy-Moore said.

Clowns aside, Kennedy-Moore advises against deliberately scaring children - even though adults, in anger, can often be tempted to convince children of their "badness," she said.

"Children learn not through suffering but by doing it right," Kennedy-Moore said. "A lot of parents feel bewildered and helpless in terms of helping their kids to learn how to behave. In general, we want to be a source of safety rather than fear for our kids."
A new statewide survey sponsored by the University of Mary Washington shows Democrat Ralph Northam and Republican Ed Gillespie locked in a tight race for governor of Virginia.

The survey released Monday shows 44 percent of likely voters favor Northam, who is now the state's lieutenant governor, and 39 percent back Gillespie, the former chairman of the state Republican Party and the Republican National Committee. Libertarian candidate Cliff Hyra received the support of 3 percent, with 14 percent undecided.

The poll of 1,000 likely voters was conducted for UMW by Princeton Survey Research Associates International Sept. 5-12. The 5-point difference between the two major party candidates is within the margin of error for likely voters. The election is Nov. 7.

The latest Mary Washington survey demonstrates that both candidates have a lot of work to do between now and November, Stephen J. Farnsworth, professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington and director of its Center for Leadership and Media Studies, said in a news release. The large number of undecided voters at this stage demonstrates that either major party candidate can become the next governor of Virginia.

The survey shows that voters who identify themselves as Democrats or Republicans are sticking with their party's nominee. Northam and Gillespie each have the support of 91 percent of those who identify with their party.

Among likely voters who described themselves as independent, 39 percent supported Gillespie and 30 percent backed Northam.
With less than two months until Election Day, the race for Virginia governor is essentially a toss-up, according to a recent poll by the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg.

About 44 percent of likely voters favored Democratic Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, and 39 percent backed Republican Ed Gillespie, but Northams 5-point lead is within the surveys margin of error. Libertarian Cliff Hyra won the support of 3 percent of likely voters in the 1,000-person survey from Sept. 5-12.

Stephen Farnsworth, a political science professor at UMW, said the results indicate both candidates have a lot of work to do between now and the Nov. 7 election. The large number of undecided voters at this stage demonstrates that either major party candidate can become the next governor of Virginia, he said in a news release.

The winner of the nationally watched race, considered an early referendum on Republican President Donald Trump, will succeed term-limited Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat. A Republican has not won a statewide race in Virginia since 2009.

Gillespie squeaked by Prince William County Supervisor Corey Stewart, whose bombastic rhetoric drew comparisons to Trump, in the GOP primary while Northam easily defeated anti-establishment candidate Tom Perriello for the Democratic nomination.

But UMWs poll shows that Gillespie has since locked up the Trump vote, receiving the support of 90 percent of voters who said they backed the rich businessman in Novembers presidential election. Northam had the backing of 86 percent of Virginians who said they voted for Democrat Hillary Clinton.

Clinton defeated Trump in Virginia by 5.4 percentage points.

Both campaigns have secured nearly all the party loyalists, Farnsworth said. Hesitation to support the eventual nominees in their respective parties has just about disappeared.

Gillespie won the support of 39 percent of likely voters who identified as independents compared to 30 percent for Northam, according to UMWs poll.

The survey also revealed gender and racial gaps, finding that women, African-Americans and Hispanics overwhelming preferred Northam while Gillespie held a comfortable lead among men and white voters.

In addition, UMWs poll showed Democrat Justin Fairfax with a 5-point lead over Republican Jill Vogel in the race for lieutenant governor, and incumbent Attorney General Mark Herring, a Democrat, with a 7-point edge over Republican John Adams.

Northam press secretary Ofirah Yheskel said in an email that the candidates message of economic opportunity for all Virginians is resonating with voters. Our campaign will ensure that voters know the stark choice they face in this election between Dr. Northam and Ed Gillespie, who will be nothing more than Donald Trumps lobbyist in Virginia, he added.

The Gillespie campaign declined to comment, but referred The Free LanceStar to another recent poll by Suffolk University that shows the candidates in a tie, each with 42 percent of the vote.
CAMEROUN :: Cameroon Patriotic Diaspora forum: The diaspora will meet at Paris on October 13, 14 and 15, 2017

The CAMEROON PATRIOTIC DIASPORA FORUM was initially scheduled to take place in Ouagadougou capital city of Burkina Faso from the 25th, to 27th of May 2017, on the theme  organization and strategies by the Cameroonian Diaspora to foster sustainable and durable socio political transition in Cameroon . Due to reluctance of local authorities to grant an authorization, the forum was shifted to neighboring Cote dIvoire from the 26th to 28th May of the same year. It was equally banned by Ivorian local authorities.

Infact, threats of diplomatic rupture raised by the Cameroonian consular authorities to the Burkinabe and then Ivorian authorities prevented the holding of the Forum in Ouagadougou and Abidjan and this demonstrates the determination of Etoudi tenant and his counterparts to prevent the holding of this Forum on African soil. So in order not to pursue a game of hide and seek from one African capital to another, Paris was finally chosen.

This city offers more assurance about the possibility of holding this Forum as the nuisance capacity of the regime in place against the Diaspora is null. The Cameroonian Patriotic Diaspora, which has always wanted to hold this Forum in Africa, has therefore resolved to withdraw from such tactics and France is a choice of reason and not of heart. The forum is scheduled for the 13th, 14th and 15th October 2017.

Participants at this forum are supposed to define a framework through which the Diaspora can contribute to bring about a smooth political transition in Cameroon. The ground situation in Cameroun progressively worsening, Cameroonians in and out of the country are unanimous that the time to rethink strategies that can bring about real change is now. Its principal objective will be to identify main root causes to the disastrous socio political atmosphere of our country and find lasting solutions by the Diaspora for a new Cameroon. It is therefore intended for all patriotic Cameroonians in the Diaspora and all friends of Cameroun to help boost active participation at building a solid democracy in Cameroon despite their physical absence from the country.

The organization committee here includes leaders and militants of some political parties, members of civil society organizations, intellectuals, media professionals, entrepreneurs, renowned artists, cultural promoters. Added to these are a group coined  Friends of Cameroon .

Invited are members of civil society organizations, Cameroonians of all works of life ; students, journalists, intellectuals ,academic title holders, representatives of NGOs and political parties, musicians in the Diaspora , and friends of Cameroon.

In the mean time, registration for participation is already open. All prospective participants are invited to write to the following email address; camerdiaspoforum2017@gmail.com. For organizational and security purposes the deadline for registration is the 07 th of October 2017 so as to prepare identification badges ahead of time.

150 participants are expected to attend this forum. In the mean time, general mobilization for the success of this great annual event which promises to be amazing in the Diaspora is at its peak.

Phone contacts:+225 5908924, +33 630195061, +32 465 126 618
Free Freightnet Membership

List your company in the Freightnet directory. It's Free, it's Easy and your company can be displayed in front of potential freight buyers within 24 hours.
City Displaces Homeless Uptown Residents To Move Forward With Construction

By aaroncynic in News on Sep 18, 2017 8:01PM



Tents some homeless residents of Uptown were living in set up along a nearby parkway after they were forced to move from under viaducts. Photo courtesy Alan Mills, Uptown Peoples Law Center.

Some of the Chicagos homeless in Uptown were once again displaced by the city Monday morning, after officials told members of the community they had to pack their tents and belongings and move from a parkway to make way for a construction project.

Homeless members of the community were first forced out from living under viaducts under Lake Shore Drive on Wilson and Lawrence after a federal judge ruled Friday that the city could move forward with construction plans, the Chicago Tribune reports. Monday morning, work crews and the Chicago Police were seen going from tent to tent telling residents they had to move, and some belongings including food, bedding, and blankets were thrown into garbage trucks.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, resident Maggie Gruzlewski was told by the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services she needed to pack her things and would be taken to a shelter, but she has issues with them.

They have bed bugs. I have sleeping problems, Gruzlewski said. I cant sleep with so many people in one room, and I dont want to leave my boyfriend. Were together 10 years. Gruzlewski also told the Tribune she had her pocket picked before at a shelter.



The City of Chicago works with a community of partners toward the goal of ensuring all Chicagoans have a place to call home. The City strives to treat homeless residents with respect and to connect them with the programs and services they need to move from crisis to stability and will continue to do so during the construction of the Wilson and Lawrence viaducts. Homelessness is a complex issue for those individuals dealing with a web of challenging social, economic and health-related circumstances. Because of this, those experiencing homelessness often refuse options for shelter and services, and choose to remain on the street.

A representative from DFSS said the City was making efforts to connect the residents with support services. In a statement given to ABC7 , DFSS wrote:

Residents displaced by the city however, dont feel theyve been treated well or given many options to find stability.

"We can turn around and take a children's hospital, tear it down and build up a complex for luxurious apartments, but we can't take care of people that need a little help?" resident Carol Aldape told ABC7. "Shelters are not safe, they are not a community of loving people. They're survivors that think they have to grab and get what they can get. I'd rather be in the streets."

Tom Gordon, another resident called the move by the City a "betrayal," and slammed both Alderman James Cappelman and Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Ive lived in Uptown for years and Im here because I was evicted from an SRO (single room occupancy building)," said Gordon in a statement to Chicagoist. "The homeless are not going away -- and for Rahm Emanuel and James Cappleman to not even show up for this, but to send [the Chicago Police Department] to kick us out, is sickening.

ONE Northside, one of several community groups that have been working with the residents, say that given the closure of SRO's, rising rents, and incoming luxury high rises that have little room for affordable housing, homelessness in the area will be on the rise.

There is a dire need for real affordable housing in Uptown and across the North Side, said Curtis Smith, ONE Northside Board President, in an email to Chicagoist. Rising rents, the closure of single room occupancy buildings, and new developments without enough affordable housing will only create more homelessness. With all of these forces in play, long time Uptown residents like those living in Uptown Tent City truly have nowhere to go. We need real vision and public investment in this vital resource.
The City Council approved the $25 minimum wage increase earlier this year  but may have to repeal it after a challenge to that decision.
12 Of Our Favorite Events In Chicago This Week



Image via Ruth Page Center for the Arts' Facebook page.

Movies, stores, pancakes, booze and more to do this week in Chicago.



MONDAY SEPTEMBER 18

LANGSTON HUGHES SHOW: The works of activist, poet and playwright Langston Hughes have been adapted for the stage in a quartet of short plays at Ruth Page Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. The Langston Hughes Art Show will look closely at the struggles of African-Americans during the Jim Crow Laws and the Harlem Renaissance. Tickets start at $25 and include a dessert and wine reception after the performance.

INDUSTRY APPRECIATION PIG ROAST: Saint Lous Assembly says good bye to summer and thank you to industry folks with a pig roast from 1 to 5 p.m. on Monday. RSVP here for free eats and Jager Soft Serve Sundaes. Theyll also have cocktail specials, bocce and tunes from DJ Dave Mata.

MOTH STORYSLAM: The Chicago Moth StorySLAM makes its way to SPACE this Monday for an evening about getting "Schooled." Storytellers should come prepared with a five minute story of school, from nun teachers to hard knock lessons and everything in between. 7 p.m. Free.

Invasion by The Fantastic Plastics

SCI-FI PUNK ROCK: The Fantastic Plastics may now be based on the East Coast, but they were created in Peoria. The husband and wife duo mix Weezer style hooks with seriously sci-fi nerdery, and we are huge fans of both. Catch the band at The Burlington Monday night.



TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 19

ROOFTOP SCREENING: Elevated Films Chicago teams up with Ace Hotel Chicago for a rooftop screening of The Florida Project at 7 p.m. The special event features a post-screening l Q+A with director Sean Baker moderated by Spencer Parsons. The film, starring Willem Dafoe, Brooklynn Prince and Bria Vinaite, takes a poignant look at childhood just outside the magical world of Disney. Tickets are $12.



WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 20

LIGHTS, CAMERA, COCKTAILS: ArcLight begins their new Lights, Camera, Cocktails series this Wednesday with Sin City at 6:30 p.m. The movie and mixology series features a three-drink film-inspired menu paired with the mixologists favorite movies. Begin with a pre-screening cocktail and then a wrap party post-film in the cafe. Tickets are $35 and include three cocktails and complimentary popcorn.



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 21



Kellie Epperheimer, Adrienne Lipson and Elliot Hammans in Peter Chu's Space, In Perspective. Photo by Todd Rosenberg.

INTERACTIVE DANCE: Hubbard Street Dance begins the fall season with immersive, interactive performances at Harris Harris Theater this weekend. The innovative program will take place in unexpected spaces such as the lobbies, loading dock and backstage, culminating with all parties (audience included) on the main stage. Audiences will be limited to 400 people per performance, broken down into even smaller groups for the journey around the venue. Visit their website for showtimes. Tickets are $65.

LIT CRAWL: There's a real live lit crawl this Thursday in Andersonville. Crews like The Neo-Futurists, Miss Spoken and Drinkers with Writing Problems will invade spaces trusted as well as unexpected throughout the evening. Stroll from bookstore Women and Children First to sex toy store Early to Bed to the Hopleaf bar and restaurant and land on all different type of performance literature. Performances take place in three one-hour blocks. Visit the Lit Crawl website for the full schedule.



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 22

312 BLOCK PARTY: Every year Goose Island throws a nonchalant homegrown party outside their brewery on Fulton Street. While casual, the 312 Block Party is more than your average Chicago street fest. The music lineup for this year alone boasts Animal Collective, The Record Company, Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires, Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, Filthy Friends (Feat. members Sleater Kinney, R.E.M. and The Minus Five), Joey Purp, Califone, The Drastics, Low Down Brass Band, and more. Theyll also have food trucks like Girl & the Goat, Beat Kitchen and Happy Lobster, and $3 brews all day Friday and Saturday. Admission is a $10 suggested donation going toward Mission Muscle Foundation, Open Books and the Chicago Canine Rescue.

BEER MANSION: It really goes without saying, but beer lovers are going to want to make their way to a place called Beer Mansion this Friday and Saturday. The interactive, multi-room celebration of beer, food, music, more beer and community is presented by Brooklyn Brewery Mash inside Morgans on Fulton from 6 to 10 p.m. each night. The mansion boasts five themed tasting rooms along with local flavor when it comes to breweries (Solemn Oath, MARZ), restaurants (Budlong, Aloha Poke) and live music artists (Deeper, Negative Scanner), just to name a few. Tickets are $65.

PANCAKE + BOOZE ART SHOW: Find emerging artists, body painting, a free pancake bar and more at the Pancake & Booze Art Show at Reggie's this Friday and Saturday. The touring art show will also feature live band performances. Tickets are $7 in advance ($10 day of).


The day students move into the dorms at Oregon State University is one filled with emotions, such as excitement about starting a new stage of life, sadness about leaving home for the first time and nervousness about learning a new place.

But that wasnt the typical case at Halsell Hall, which has residents that are nearly all sophomores and above, with about a quarter of the buildings 220 residents coming to OSU as transfer students from another college.

Sunday was move-in day at OSU and approximately 3,600 students moved to campus.

Its different as a returning student because Im not as nervous, said Jachob Wolff, a sophomore and resident assistant at the building. Wolff spent Sunday morning helping to give direction to drivers struggling to find the correct dorm.

(Learning campus) can be quiet intimidating. ... its nice to be on the other side of it helping people out, he said.

Jennifer Piacentini, a junior in psychology who moved into Halsell on Sunday, said she was more nervous about a band audition than moving into the dorms. She spent the previous two years living in Sackett Hall and said she didnt really consider moving off-campus.

I like how convenient (dorms) are. Were close to all the buildings on campus.

Jennifer Vina, director of marketing and communications with OSUs University Housing & Dining Services, said the university has over the last three years tried to create more communities for sophomores and above on campus.

Although Halsell, which features apartment-style quad rooms with enclosed bathrooms and living rooms, has long been a community for sophomores, the university has been adding other dedicated communities for sophomores and above in its residence halls over the last three years. That includes two floors in Tebeau Hall, two floors in Bloss Hall and a floor in connected Hawley and Buxton halls.

This year, the university is adding new sophomore and above residences areas in a wing of Sackett Hall, a wing of the second floor of McNary Hall and the first floor of Cauthorn Hall.

Vina said over the last four years the university has seen the number of sophomores and above living on campus grow about 10 percent a year, to about 500, a figure that does not include transfer students or students who are living in the halls and working as UHDS employees, like Wolff.

Michael Diegel, a junior in mechanical engineering, also moved into Halsell Sunday. He was in Hawley the past two years.

I couldnt find anything that was reasonable (in price), had parking and was within walking distance, he said.

Diegel said it was nice to be back on campus after the summer and that the experience of moving in is different as a returning student.

Its a lot less chaotic the second time because you know what you are doing, he said.

Diegel added that hed also learned a lesson after having to squeeze all his possessions into a dorm room.

You bring half the stuff you brought the first year, he said.
An opportunity for foodies and beer lovers to get lost in a world of food and drink from a hand-selected range of food trucks and breweries from around New Zealand.
Work to move the Grand Hall of Shanghai's Jade Buddha Temple 31 meters north and raise it 1 meter from the place it has stood for almost century was completed on Sunday.

Tourists and monks attend a ceremony of gratitude at the Grand Hall of the Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai on Sunday. The hall was moved 31 meters north and raised 1 meter. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

The temple was first built in 1882 on the outskirts of Shanghai. It is named for the two jade Buddha statues it houses. Destroyed by fire, it was reconstructed in 1918 at its current downtown location.

Abbots of the temple decided to relocate the saffron-painted Grand Hall three years ago because of safety concerns and to protect the wooden structure. The temple welcomes about 2 million visitors a year, and daily visitors on occasions such as Chinese New Year Eve can top 100,000.

A special ceremony attended by monks, abbots and thousands of Buddhist faithful was held on Sunday morning to celebrate the successful relocation of the hall after two weeks of work.

The 2,000-metric-ton structure was moved together with three clay Buddha sculptures and other relics it contained.

"The challenge was like walking and carrying a tray of tofu to a destination," said Lan Wuji, founder of Evolution Shift, the company behind the project, which also handled the relocation of Shanghai Music Hall in 2003.
Article

Protecting the worlds oceans  an important goal of Germanys climate diplomacy

The worlds oceans are vital to our survival. They regulate the global climate and are a source of food and income for billions of people. Only a very small part of the seas enjoys legal protection, however. Our diplomats are working in New York right now to change this state of affairs.
With the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress approaching, politicians worldwide said they are observing "with great interest and high expectation" the political and policy outcome of the event, which begins Oct 18.

Politicians, scholars and opinion leaders from Europe, the United State and Asia have expressed their predictions in interviews with China Daily a month before the once-in-five-year congress begins.

A new CPC Central Committee and a new Central Commission for Discipline Inspection are expected to be elected by 2,300 delegates nationwide elected before June to represent China's 88 million CPC members.

In reviewing China's progress, achieved by the CPC Central Committee under the leadership of Party General Secretary Xi Jinping since 2012, they concluded that China has started to take center stage globally and they look forward to seeing how China will deliver more positive solutions to global issues.

"My view is that President Xi has given a positive surprise to the world in the past five years and surely China has started to take central stage," said former Italian prime minister Enrico Letta.

Letta, now dean of the Paris School of International Affairs, part of the Paris Institute of Political Studies, said the global political landscape has changed rapidly during the past five years due to economic growth, social media expansion, technological breakthroughs and Donald Trump's US presidency.

During the global shift, Letta said, China has grasped chances to transform its economy, eliminate corruption and further lift people at home from poverty. Internationally, it has rolled out the Belt and Road Initiative and played an active role in global affairs.

Letta said his school has groups of scholars and students who have shown interest in observing the upcoming 19th Party Congress.

Former Pakistani prime minister Shaukat Aziz also has praised the outcome of Xi's work during the past five years, calling him "a peace-loving man and a world-class leader".

Aziz said the Belt and Road Initiative is an excellent example of his leadership. "President Xi, in my view, has changed the dimensions and policy framework of China," he said.

Jo Leinen, a German politician who is chairman of the European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with China also said Europe looks with great interests and expectations on the 19th Congress because "it is a great moment for the country, but also for the world".

In addition to the new leadership election and reshaping of the CPC institutions, Leinen said he also is watching what policy guidelines and directions China will take in the coming five years.

Leinen said he looks forward to seeing how Xi's coming policy addresses, ideas, thoughts and strategies regarding governance by the CPC Central Committee will be further developed.

Former US ambassador to China Gary Locke remains committed to facilitating US business and trade, saying the growing prosperity in China and the country's growing middle class are impressive achievements.

He said Xi has done an excellent job as president and the Belt and Road Initiative is receiving positive reviews worldwide.
IPOB Leader, Nnamdi Kanu Petitions UN, US And Russia Over Army Invasion

clarajancita at 18-09-2017 12:12 PM (5 years ago) (f)

In letter addressed to Office of the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights, Palais des Nations CH-1211, Geneva 10, Switzerland, a team of IPOB international lawyers based in US and Nigeria have petitioned UN, US and Russia over the invasion of Nnamdi Kanus residence and the recent tension in south-East Nigeria.

In letter addressed to Office of the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights, Palais des Nations CH-1211, Geneva 10, Switzerland, a team of IPOB international lawyers based in US and Nigeria have petitioned UN, US and Russia over the invasion of Nnamdi Kanus residence and the recent tension in south-East Nigeria.

The group also claimed Nnamdi Kanus rights to freedom of speech, association and religion, has also been violated. The petition seeks the intervention of the UN human rights arm in the crisis in South-East Nigeria. The team of the US-based lawyers led by Bruce E. Fein, W. Bruce DelValle, alongside their Nigerian-based Attorney, Aloy Ejimakor, approached the UN human rights on behalf of the IPOB leader, IPOB members and pro-Biafra agitators.



Here an excerpt from the letter;

The group also claimed Nnamdi Kanus rights to freedom of speech, association and religion, has also been violated. The petition seeks the intervention of the UN human rights arm in the crisis in South-East Nigeria. The team of the US-based lawyers led by Bruce E. Fein, W. Bruce DelValle, alongside their Nigerian-based Attorney, Aloy Ejimakor, approached the UN human rights on behalf of the IPOB leader, IPOB members and pro-Biafra agitators. Quote On behalf of the 50 million Igbo people of Nigeria, organized under the umbrella of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led by Nnamdi Kanu, the Nelson Mandela of Nigeria, this office together with Nigerian Barrister Aloy Ejimakor (IPOB general counsel) calls your attention to the Nigerian governments authorized shootings and killings of Mr. Kanus guests at his home by elements of Nigerian Army late Sunday, September 10, 2017.



We are convinced the Nigerian government intended to assassinate Mr Kanu because of his Igbo ancestry, Judaic religion, and political views. Its nefarious designs were thwarted by the unanticipated presence of numerous visitors to Mr Kanu at the time of his scheduled extrajudicial murder by the Nigerian Army under colour of Nigerian law.

According to 10 credible Nigerian newspaper reports, many of the visitors were seriously wounded in the Army attack. Fatalities have been reported. Due to the developing nature of this incident, definitive information is unavailable at this time. But enough is known to justify an international response to prevent convulsion in Nigeria that would threaten international peace and security. [/i]

[/i]

Post Reply I am a metro reporter on Gistmania, I have been publishing news materials for over 5 years Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:12 PM (5 years ago) | Hero

gogoman at 18-09-2017 12:18 PM (5 years ago)

(m) THE EARLIER UNA COME TO REALITY THAT NIGERIA IS A SOVEREIGN COUNTRY THE BETTER FOR UNA!! maybe na papa USA OR mama UN go come beat NAIJA i won see Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:18 PM (5 years ago) | Grande Master THE EARLIER UNA COME TO REALITY THAT NIGERIA IS A SOVEREIGN COUNTRY THE BETTER FOR UNA!! maybe na papa USA OR mama UN go come beat NAIJA i won see Reply

Haso112 at 18-09-2017 12:18 PM (5 years ago)

(m) COWARDICE AT IT'S HIGHEST PEAK.... I THOUGHT IT WAS EITHER BIAFRA OR DEATH, WHY UNA COME DEY PETITION, WHY HIDE IF YOU FEEL YOU'RE RIGHT....? IPOB HAS BEEN DECLARED AS A TERRORIST ORG. & THAT'S FINAL... THERE'S SURE NO GOING BACK ON THAT....!!! Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:18 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac COWARDICE AT IT'S HIGHEST PEAK.... I THOUGHT IT WAS EITHER BIAFRA OR DEATH, WHY UNA COME DEY PETITION, WHY HIDE IF YOU FEEL YOU'RE RIGHT....? IPOB HAS BEEN DECLARED AS A TERRORIST ORG. & THAT'S FINAL... THERE'S SURE NO GOING BACK ON THAT....!!! Reply

Haso112 at 18-09-2017 12:19 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: gogoman on 18-09-2017 12:18 PM THE EARLIER UNA COME TO REALITY THAT NIGERIA IS A SOVEREIGN COUNTRY THE BETTER FOR UNA!! maybe na papa USA OR mama UN go come beat NAIJA i won see



Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:19 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac Reply

tegonwa at 18-09-2017 12:23 PM (5 years ago)

(m) My Dear, Never You Liken Nnamdi Kanu With Nelson Mandela.The Difference Between The Two Is Miles Apart! Nelson Never Called South Africa A Zoo; He Never Called Even The Least Among The South African White Leaders Paedophiles, Imbeciles Or Rapists, He Never Called For The Death Of Anyone Or Incited Violence Against The Whites.Nelson Was Abused And Denigrated Upon For More Than Two Decades But He Easily Forgave His Transgressors.Why Compare Such A Legend To This Aba Man That Wants To Destroy This Unity And Peace That Nigerians Have Built Since 1970?Nawaa O! Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:23 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac My Dear, Never You Liken Nnamdi Kanu With Nelson Mandela.The Difference Between The Two Is Miles Apart! Nelson Never Called South Africa A Zoo; He Never Called Even The Least Among The South African White Leaders Paedophiles, Imbeciles Or Rapists, He Never Called For The Death Of Anyone Or Incited Violence Against The Whites.Nelson Was Abused And Denigrated Upon For More Than Two Decades But He Easily Forgave His Transgressors.Why Compare Such A Legend To This Aba Man That Wants To Destroy This Unity And Peace That Nigerians Have Built Since 1970?Nawaa O! Reply

tegonwa at 18-09-2017 12:25 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Please Let Peace Reign. Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:25 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac Please Let Peace Reign. Reply

Haso112 at 18-09-2017 12:27 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: tegonwa on 18-09-2017 12:23 PM My Dear, Never You Liken Nnamdi Kanu With Nelson Mandela.The Difference Between The Two Is Miles Apart! Nelson Never Called South Africa A Zoo; He Never Called Even The Least Among The South African White Leaders Paedophiles, Imbeciles Or Rapists, He Never Called For The Death Of Anyone Or Incited Violence Against The Whites.Nelson Was Abused And Denigrated Upon For More Than Two Decades But He Easily Forgave His Transgressors.Why Compare Such A Legend To This Aba Man That Wants To Destroy This Unity And Peace That Nigerians Have Built Since 1970?Nawaa O!



SEE AS YOU MAKE SENSE... E BE LIKE SOMETIMES SHA, UR BRAIN DEY ALWAYS GO ON BREAK....! Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:27 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac SEE AS YOU MAKE SENSE... E BE LIKE SOMETIMES SHA, UR BRAIN DEY ALWAYS GO ON BREAK....! Reply

ruthie at 18-09-2017 12:34 PM (5 years ago)

(f) Quote from: tegonwa on 18-09-2017 12:23 PM My Dear, Never You Liken Nnamdi Kanu With Nelson Mandela.The Difference Between The Two Is Miles Apart! Nelson Never Called South Africa A Zoo; He Never Called Even The Least Among The South African White Leaders Paedophiles, Imbeciles Or Rapists, He Never Called For The Death Of Anyone Or Incited Violence Against The Whites.Nelson Was Abused And Denigrated Upon For More Than Two Decades But He Easily Forgave His Transgressors.Why Compare Such A Legend To This Aba Man That Wants To Destroy This Unity And Peace That Nigerians Have Built Since 1970?Nawaa O!

well said Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:34 PM (5 years ago) | Hero well said Reply

tegonwa at 18-09-2017 12:35 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Haso112 on 18-09-2017 12:27 PM SEE AS YOU MAKE SENSE... E BE LIKE SOMETIMES SHA, UR BRAIN DEY ALWAYS GO ON BREAK....!

My Bro Notin Sweet Pass Peace And Unity. But Haso, The Thunder Wey Go Fire You For Saying That My Brain Dey Go Break Eh...That Thunder Still Dey Mama Iyabo Kiosk Dey Drink Alomo Bitters!Nawaa O! Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:35 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac My Bro Notin Sweet Pass Peace And Unity. But Haso, The Thunder Wey Go Fire You For Saying That My Brain Dey Go Break Eh...That Thunder Still Dey Mama Iyabo Kiosk Dey Drink Alomo Bitters!Nawaa O! Reply

ruthie at 18-09-2017 12:37 PM (5 years ago)

(f) tegonwa has said it all...no need for my comments! Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:37 PM (5 years ago) | Hero tegonwa has said it all...no need for my comments! Reply

fineboy77 at 18-09-2017 12:43 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: gogoman on 18-09-2017 12:18 PM THE EARLIER UNA COME TO REALITY THAT NIGERIA IS A SOVEREIGN COUNTRY THE BETTER FOR UNA!! maybe na papa USA OR mama UN go come beat NAIJA i won see

This now concludes the level of your ignorance. Why speak when you have nothing upstairs? What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:43 PM (5 years ago) | Hero This now concludes the level of your ignorance. Why speak when you have nothing upstairs? Reply

tegonwa at 18-09-2017 12:46 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: ruthie on 18-09-2017 12:37 PM tegonwa has said it all...no need for my comments!

In Fact Eh, Tell Your Father That When Naija Pals Pays Me 10k, I Am Coming To Lagos To Pay Your Bride Price Immediately.Lols... Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:46 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac In Fact Eh, Tell Your Father That When Naija Pals Pays Me 10k, I Am Coming To Lagos To Pay Your Bride Price Immediately.Lols... Reply

fineboy77 at 18-09-2017 12:46 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: tegonwa on 18-09-2017 12:23 PM My Dear, Never You Liken Nnamdi Kanu With Nelson Mandela.The Difference Between The Two Is Miles Apart! Nelson Never Called South Africa A Zoo; He Never Called Even The Least Among The South African White Leaders Paedophiles, Imbeciles Or Rapists, He Never Called For The Death Of Anyone Or Incited Violence Against The Whites.Nelson Was Abused And Denigrated Upon For More Than Two Decades But He Easily Forgave His Transgressors.Why Compare Such A Legend To This Aba Man That Wants To Destroy This Unity And Peace That Nigerians Have Built Since 1970?Nawaa O!

A prophet has no respect among his people. That said and talking about thunder,the one wey go fire that your mouth wey you take talk this shit na suicide bomber What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:46 PM (5 years ago) | Hero A prophet has no respect among his people. That said and talking about thunder,the one wey go fire that your mouth wey you take talk this shit na suicide bomber Reply

fineboy77 at 18-09-2017 12:47 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: tegonwa on 18-09-2017 12:46 PM In Fact Eh, Tell Your Father That When Naija Pals Pays Me 10k, I Am Coming To Lagos To Pay Your Bride Price Immediately.Lols...

Na for which brothel you go see am? What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:47 PM (5 years ago) | Hero Na for which brothel you go see am? Reply

Haso112 at 18-09-2017 12:48 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: tegonwa on 18-09-2017 12:35 PM My Bro Notin Sweet Pass Peace And Unity. But Haso, The Thunder Wey Go Fire You For Saying That My Brain Dey Go Break Eh...That Thunder Still Dey Mama Iyabo Kiosk Dey Drink Alomo Bitters!Nawaa O!



HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...... I DON LAUGH DIE FOR HERE.....! I DON SEND SANGO TO SWALLOW THAT THUNDER... ABEG OOO, THUNDER WEY DEY DRINK ALOMO BITTERS.. CHAI.... Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:48 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...... I DON LAUGH DIE FOR HERE.....! I DON SEND SANGO TO SWALLOW THAT THUNDER... ABEG OOO, THUNDER WEY DEY DRINK ALOMO BITTERS.. CHAI.... Reply

fineboy77 at 18-09-2017 12:49 PM (5 years ago)

(m) IPOB using diplomacy,the Nigerian govt as touts and thugs that they are bringing war to the Igbos just 4 pot to call kettle black. Senseless people What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:49 PM (5 years ago) | Hero IPOB using diplomacy,the Nigerian govt as touts and thugs that they are bringing war to the Igbos just 4 pot to call kettle black. Senseless people Reply

schmit at 18-09-2017 12:56 PM (5 years ago)

(f) Nawaooo Posted: at 18-09-2017 12:56 PM (5 years ago) | Hero Nawaooo Reply

morganaldore at 18-09-2017 01:21 PM (5 years ago)

(m) This news no be true..or its either the lawyers who write the letter na fool . ...for you to write a letter like this to the UN or USA about trying to divide a country ..and even comparing the fool with Nelson Mandela saying "the Nelson Mandela of Nigeria"....is just plain stupid....do they think writing a letter like this will make them do something....Them no va finish N korea issue ..na come one useless illiterate trying to divide a country . Posted: at 18-09-2017 01:21 PM (5 years ago) | Upcoming This news no be true..or its either the lawyers who write the letter na fool . ...for you to write a letter like this to the UN or USA about trying to divide a country ..and even comparing the fool with Nelson Mandela saying "the Nelson Mandela of Nigeria"....is just plain stupid....do they think writing a letter like this will make them do something....Them no va finish N korea issue ..na come one useless illiterate trying to divide a country . Reply

tegonwa at 18-09-2017 01:28 PM (5 years ago)

(m) Quote from: fineboy77 on 18-09-2017 12:47 PM Na for which brothel you go see am?

But How Can Anyone Say That Nnamdi Kanu Is The Nelson Mandela Of Nigeria?Even Turkey Has Come Out To Say That The Turkish Man Who Was Supporting Kanu Is Not A Turkish Diplomat. Posted: at 18-09-2017 01:28 PM (5 years ago) | Gistmaniac But How Can Anyone Say That Nnamdi Kanu Is The Nelson Mandela Of Nigeria?Even Turkey Has Come Out To Say That The Turkish Man Who Was Supporting Kanu Is Not A Turkish Diplomat. Reply
felicilin at 18-09-2017 03:00 PM (5 years ago) (f)

Nigerian girls as young as 13 are increasingly being trafficked to Italy to work as street prostitutes, experts have revealed.

Nigerian girls as young as 13 are increasingly being trafficked to Italy to work as street prostitutes, experts have revealed. The girls are promised jobs as baby sitters and hairdressers once they arrive in Italy but instead end up on the streets selling themselves for as little as 10 euros (8.90) a time, terrified into submission by gang r*pe and voodoo curses.

Teenage girls and young women sitting on beer crates or cheap plastic chairs in dusty lay-bys are a common sight on the periphery of Italys major cities, and even along country lanes in places such as Tuscany and Umbria.

Nigerians now make up the biggest nationality crossing the Mediterranean in smuggling boats launched from Libya, and many of the migrants are girls and young women who are destined for the s*x trade.

Of the 100,000 migrants who have been rescued at sea so far this year and brought to Italy, 15 per cent were Nigerian.

"There are girls aged 13, 14 and 15 on the streets now  a lot of them are underage. They are so young and they are living such terrible experiences," said Anna Pozzi, an expert on the sex trade and the author of a book, Slave Merchants.

"They come from desperately poor families. Many have not been to school and are illiterate. They dream of a better life in Europe, they see Italy as a paradise. They are getting younger and younger, said the author, who has travelled extensively in Nigeria to research trafficking networks.

Some of the women have only the vaguest idea of where they are heading, but worry about having to cross a very wide river  by which they mean the Mediterranean.

It is estimated that 80 per cent of Nigerian teenage girls and young women who make it to Italy are forced into the s*x trade.

Female migrants are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and violence

Blessing Okoedion, 29, is one of the rare women who managed to escape the trafficking gangs and speak out against the flesh trade.

She came to Naples four years ago on the promise of a job as a computer technician but was forced onto the streets as a prostitute.

The number of girls on the street is increasing and some of them are very young, said Ms Okoedion, who now works as a cultural mediator and wrote a book about her ordeal, The Courage of Freedom.

When I see them out there, I remember my own time on the street. I felt like I was dead. You no longer feel like a person, you feel like a product that is bought and sold. They take everything away from you

Even now, when I ask street directions from a man in Italy, often he will say how much do you cost?

The young women live in terror of the madams who run them, as well as Nigerian criminals who organise the trade in league with Italian mafia networks such as the Camorra of Naples.

Even local churches are involved  Ms Okoedion claims one preacher she came across is a well-known trafficker.

Once they arrive in Italy they are told they must pay 30,000 euros or more in order to win back their freedom.

Over the last three years there has been an almost 600 per cent increase in the number of potential sex trafficking victims arriving in Italy by sea, according to the International Organisation for Migration, the UNs migration agency.

In 2014, just under 1,500 Nigerian women and girls reached Italy. That number rose dramatically to 11,000 in 2016.

The exploitation increasingly involves younger girls  often minors  who are already subject to violence and abuse on their way to Europe, the agency said in a report released in July.



The girls are promised jobs as baby sitters and hairdressers once they arrive in Italy but instead end up on the streets selling themselves for as little as 10 euros (8.90) a time, terrified into submission by gang r*pe and voodoo curses.Teenage girls and young women sitting on beer crates or cheap plastic chairs in dusty lay-bys are a common sight on the periphery of Italys major cities, and even along country lanes in places such as Tuscany and Umbria.Nigerians now make up the biggest nationality crossing the Mediterranean in smuggling boats launched from Libya, and many of the migrants are girls and young women who are destined for the s*x trade.Of the 100,000 migrants who have been rescued at sea so far this year and brought to Italy, 15 per cent were Nigerian.said Anna Pozzi, an expert on the sex trade and the author of a book, Slave Merchants."They come from desperately poor families. Many have not been to school and are illiterate. They dream of a better life in Europe, they see Italy as a paradise. They are getting younger and younger, said the author, who has travelled extensively in Nigeria to research trafficking networks.Some of the women have only the vaguest idea of where they are heading, but worry about having to cross a very wide river  by which they mean the Mediterranean.It is estimated that 80 per cent of Nigerian teenage girls and young women who make it to Italy are forced into the s*x trade.Female migrants are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and violenceBlessing Okoedion, 29, is one of the rare women who managed to escape the trafficking gangs and speak out against the flesh trade.She came to Naples four years ago on the promise of a job as a computer technician but was forced onto the streets as a prostitute.The young women live in terror of the madams who run them, as well as Nigerian criminals who organise the trade in league with Italian mafia networks such as the Camorra of Naples.Even local churches are involved  Ms Okoedion claims one preacher she came across is a well-known trafficker.Once they arrive in Italy they are told they must pay 30,000 euros or more in order to win back their freedom.Over the last three years there has been an almost 600 per cent increase in the number of potential sex trafficking victims arriving in Italy by sea, according to the International Organisation for Migration, the UNs migration agency.In 2014, just under 1,500 Nigerian women and girls reached Italy. That number rose dramatically to 11,000 in 2016.The exploitation increasingly involves younger girls  often minors  who are already subject to violence and abuse on their way to Europe, the agency said in a report released in July.

Post Reply Posted: at 18-09-2017 03:00 PM (5 years ago) | Hero
Overall, dont let the bhoot mislead you, nothing bhootiya about this story. Had the makers tried to push the envelope, the idea could have been outstanding for a bhootiya comedy.
A two-day forum focusing on the prospects and major achievements of stem cells research and clinical trials was held in Jimo, Qingdao, Shandong Province from Sept. 14 to 15.

Richard John Roberts, a Nobel Laureate of Physiology and Medicine in 1993, addresses the opening ceremony of a two-day forum of life sciences on Thursday, in Jimo, Qingdao, Shandong Province. [Photo by Wu Jin / China.org.cn]

Officially titled Qingdao China-2017 International Annual Meeting on Biology and Medicine, also known as Heshan Forum, the workshop, proposed by Zhao Chunhua, doctor and chief scientist from Peking Union Medical College Hospital, attracted an outstanding line-up of biomedical luminaries. The presence of Richard John Roberts, the 1993 Nobel Laureate of physiology and medicine, has given prominence to the cross-country and interdisciplinary meeting.

As one of the critical breakthroughs in the sector of life sciences, the research, application and regeneration of stem cells is expected to save more people who are suffering from deadly diseases such as cancer, leukemia or diabetes.

Leukemia patients, who could only survive in many cases with a compatible organ donation chosen from a bank of millions, may in the future have a better chance of surviving by receiving marrows donated from their lineage family members, Zhao introduced.

According to Martin Zenke, a professor of cell biology and chairman of the University Hospital Pauwelsstrasse, the science of artificial stem cell has a close relation with genetic engineering.

"It's a big topic and we have different kinds of stem cells, conventional stem cells and unconventional stem cells, because we can make artificial stem cells," he said.

"What is also very important is that the stem cells have property. When it grows, and it divides one stem cell into two stem cells. They can also change their identities to becomea different cell. This also goes together with the technology of genetic engineering, genetic editing with stem cells and engineering cells, which give us, the new bunch of cells and cell products," he added.

Zenke's interdisciplinary explanation has been echoed by Steve A. Kay, the provost professor of neurology, biomedical engineering and biological sciences of the University of Southern California.

"[We aim] to really pool together people from very different backgrounds, much broader than normal, from our cinema school, from our art, design school and our engineering school and our medicine school to really look at big and massive things like cancer and diseases related to aging," Kay said.

"So, gathering as much patient data as we can on different diseases within a diverse population. We don't think we know everything about health to solve these problems, so we are really interested in collaborating with institutions, individuals and government," he added.

During the opening ceremony, two standardized programs, namely, "the clinical standard of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation for treating graft-versus-host-diseases (GVHD)" and "the clinical standard of MSCs transplantation for treating acute Myocardinal infarction" were launched and "the establishing of the biomedical sciences international alliance of the 'Belt and Road' initiatives'" was inaugurated.

In retrospect of China's progress made in biomedical sciences and healthcare services, the forum, with an attendance of 600 people from both home and abroad, aimed to forge ahead with the exchanges and cooperation among the professionals.

Following Chinese President Xi Jinping's remarks made in August, 2016, during which he reiterated that the policymakers should observe people's healthcare demands as one of the top priorities on their strategic agendas, the Qingdao government mapped out an outline endeavoring to shape the coastal city's medical and pharmaceutical layout within four years.

"China has spent lots of money on research, and I think this is because you have leaders who are technically savvy as they understand important modern technologies and they understand important sciences," said Roberts.

The organizers of the forum have chosen Jimuo, the county-level city under the jurisdiction of Qingdao, as the venue for the annual biomedical workshop.
RICHMOND -- Concepts like machine learning and artificial intelligence might conjure up images from science fiction tales about self-aware robots.

The team of tech gurus at Notch, a small Richmond company that specializes in machine learning, have heard all that. One managers daughter has even joked with her friends about dad working for a robot company.

What Notch really helps its clients do is less fantastic, but still has great potential to revolutionize how businesses use the vast amounts of data generated in the digital economy.

We are a very niche company, focused on some emerging areas, said Paul Hurlocker, Notchs CEO who co-founded the company in 2014 with David Der. When we started the company, we saw an opportunity.

Machine learning  which fits into the broader category of artificial intelligence  is now figuring into technologies such as autonomous vehicles and voice and face recognition. Its one of the tools behind how companies such as Amazon and Netflix give customers automated product recommendations.

As a consulting company, Notch is trying to bring the benefits of machine learning to more businesses and organizations.

Leading-edge tech companies like the Facebooks and Googles and Netflixes of the world operate on their data in a very different way than most companies do, Hurlocker said. They are also able to leverage machine learning to do things that other companies cant do.

We think that is the future, and the companies we work with want to move into that future, he said.

From its office in Richmonds Shockoe Bottom, the 16-employee company works for clients ranging from small startups to Fortune 500 companies, in industries including pharmaceuticals, health care, retail sales, finance and publishing.

Notch does not disclose its financial results, but its managers say revenue tripled last year.

***

Notch has operated largely out of the media spotlight so far, but Robby Demeria, executive director of RVATech, Richmonds technology council, said the company is one of the top contributors to Richmonds tech ecosystem.

Notch is a small but fierce data company, said Demeria, adding that it has some of the most knowledgeable data scientists and software engineers in the business.

Their presence in Richmond elevates our overall profile as a destination for machine learning and data strategy, as a number of their clients are not local, he said.

The Notch team includes veterans of the Richmond-area technology community, along with a staff of young tech specialists, many of them just a few years out of Virginia universities.

Hurlocker and Der met while working at Amentra, an information technology consulting firm founded in Richmond that was acquired by Red Hat Inc. in 2008.

Der is now Notchs chief operating officer, and his two brothers, Bryan and Matt, subsequently joined the company.

The Der brothers grew up in Chester, with a father who works in computer science. We had it around the house growing up and, while in school, we all found we had a natural aptitude for mathematics, David Der said.

Bryan Der works as a data scientist for the company.

Matt Der earned a doctorate in computer science, specializing in machine learning, from the University of California at San Diego. He is Notchs chief technology officer and, thanks to his doctorate, he is the one who gives the company its street cred in machine learning, Hurlocker said.

A recent addition to the management team is Mike Upchurch, as chief strategy officer. Upchurch was the co-founder of Fuzzy Logix, an in-database analytics company, and he previously worked in investment, commercial and retail banking.

The managers of Notch believe it is the only company in the Richmond region offering the services it does, and one of the few in the country. What makes us unique is we thrive at the intersection of machine learning and data engineering, Matt Der said.

Thanks to the internet and smartphones, more data are being collected now than ever before, and Notchs data engineering service helps clients organize, move and store the data they receive. The data engineering helps position clients for Notchs second service, which is machine learning.

***

Machine learning is typically defined as the ability of computer systems to automatically analyze large amounts of data, extract information from that data, and learn from it, without being explicitly programmed to do so.

Upchurch describes it as essentially using machines to crunch enormous amounts of data beyond the ability of any human and to look for patterns.

The machine automatically learns patterns from data, Matt Der said. I equate it with predictive analytics, rather than just descriptive analytics, which involves analyzing historical data to determine what happened, he said.

A lot of companies are used to doing descriptive analytics, he said. That is hindsight, but you can answer even more important questions if you progress from descriptive to predictive. Instead of asking what happened, you ask what will happen? If you can predict the future, you can make better decisions today.

Predictive analytics could be used to improve outcomes in many areas, from preventing fraud in financial services to earlier predictions of who is most likely to get a chronic disease among patient populations.

Machine learning tools could even be used to help identify weaknesses in the culture of an organization before it becomes a problem.

One of the local companies Notch has been working with is TMI Consulting, which helps organizations improve their workplace diversity and inclusiveness. Notch has been assisting TMI in developing a machine learning system that can aid in the assessment and analysis of such things as employee engagement, and identifying the likelihood of such problems as racial and gender bias.

Tiffany Jana, TMI Consultings president and CEO, said the firm has been working with various experts for about three years on the system, which she hopes to offer to clients starting next year. Notch has been developing the machine learning tools for about a year.

I am used to people being a little bit confused and incredulous, about the whole idea, Jana said, but Notch has done work to make it possible.

They have made what we brought to them 100 times better, she said. This machine learning is their world. They are not afraid of thinking outside the box at all.

***

Despite all the hype surrounding artificial intelligence, most businesses still dont use it, Upchurch said.

In reality, we are still in the early days of corporate adoption, he said, which means there is lots of room for a company like Notch to grow.

The company has bootstrapped itself so far, not taking any outside investors or debt, Hurlocker said.

The majority of the companys clients are not in Richmond. We are doing a lot of West Coast work, Hurlocker said. We have clients in Chicago, Los Angeles, San Diego and Houston. Northern Virginia is a growth area for us, and Norfolk.

We do have some clients in Richmond, but they tend to be startups, Hurlocker said. We are passionate about working with them. We are committed to trying to help the Richmond startup community.

A lot of the software tools the company uses were developed by West Coast tech companies or nonprofit software developers. They have open-sourced these things, and we have developed expertise in those areas, Hurlocker said.

Notch has remained based in Richmond because its managers have close family and professional connections in the region, but also because the regions technology economy has been blooming.

It is also a great city to start a business, Hurlocker said. There is talent, and it is affordable. There are some good anchor companies in town.

We think Richmond is on a roll, in general, he said. We hope we are a part of that.
Vancouver, September 18, 2017 - Zinc One Resources Inc. (TSXV: Z) (OTC Pink: ZZZOF) (FSE: RH33) ("Zinc One or the Company") announces that Zinc One has entered into a binding letter of intent (the "LOI") with Nubian Resources Ltd. ("Nubian") whereby Zinc One has agreed to sell a 100% interest in one of its non-core assets, the Esquilache Silver Project, located in Southern Peru, to Nubian.

Under the terms of the LOI, Nubian paid Zinc One a $25,000 deposit and has agreed to pay $600,000 on closing (the "Closing Payment"). The Closing Payment will consist of: (i) a minimum of $125,000 in cash and (ii) up to $475,000 in common shares of Nubian calculated on the volume weighted average price ("VWAP") for the 60 calendar days preceding the LOI date.

Further, Zinc One will receive four non-refundable annual advanced Net Smelter Royalty (NSR) payments of $162,500. Zinc One will also retain a 2% NSR of which Nubian will have the right to purchase 1% for $500,000 at any time, until the third anniversary of the first sale of gold, silver or concentrate. The parties have agreed to enter into the definitive agreement by November 23, 2017.

Jim Walchuck, Chief Executive Officer of Zinc One stated "The proposed sale of the Esquilache Silver Project reiterates management's plan to focus on the exploration and development of our flagship Bongara Mine and Charlotte-Bongara Zinc-Oxide Projects in north-central Peru and being a 'pure zinc' exploration and development company."

Closing of the purchase is subject to a number of conditions including acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Zinc One Resources Inc.

Zinc One is focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of prospective and advanced zinc projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions. Zinc One's key assets are the Bongara Mine and Charlotte-Bongara Zinc-Oxide Projects in north-central Peru. The Bongara Zinc-Oxide Mine Project was in production from 2007 to 2008, but shut down due to the global financial crisis and concurrent decrease in the zinc price. Past production included 20% zinc grades and recoveries over 90% from surface and near-surface zinc nonsulfide mineralization. High-grade nonsulfide zinc mineralization is known to outcrop between the mined area and the Charlotte-Bongara Zinc-Oxide Project, which is nearly six kilometres to the NNW and where past drilling intercepted various near-surface zones with high-grade zinc. The Company is managed by a proven team of exploration geologists and engineers who have previously constructed and operated successful mining operations.

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Bill Williams, COO and Director of Zinc One, a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101

For more information, please visit the website at www.zincone.com or contact James Walchuck, CEO, President and director at (604) 683-0911 or email at info@zincone.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

ZINC ONE RESOURCES INC.

"signed"

James Walchuck

CEO and President

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Zinc One cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Zinc One's limited operating history, its proposed exploration and development activities on the Bongara Zinc Oxide Project and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Zinc One does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

Neither 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 release.


TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Sept. 18, 2017) - First Cobalt Corp. (TSX VENTURE:FCC)(OTC:FTSSF) (the "Company") has elected not to complete the strategic alliance over seven cobalt exploration properties in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, previously disclosed on May 1, 2017.

The Company will focus its efforts in 2017 on the Canadian Cobalt Camp. The previously announced mergers with Cobalt One Ltd. and CobalTech Mining Inc. will be completed later this year, resulting in a combined land position of more than 10,000 hectares in the Cobalt Camp containing approximately 50 past producers and mine workings. The high number of advanced exploration targets ready for immediate work in the Cobalt Camp greatly offsets the potential in the DRC properties at this time. The Company may evaluate cobalt opportunities elsewhere in the future, where the exploration project potential aligns with the Company's overall strategy to offer investors leveraged access to the growing cobalt market.

Trent Mell, President & Chief Executive Officer, commented:

"Investors are very supportive of our vision for the Canadian Cobalt Camp and we are aligned with their desire to focus on the bulk mining potential of this district, located in the best mining jurisdiction in the world. The Canadian Cobalt Camp is emerging as one of the most prospective targets for cobalt exploration. The DRC remains very appealing geologically but the investment climate has deteriorated since the strategic alliance was announced and we have significantly expanded our footprint in Canada."

About First Cobalt

First Cobalt's objective is to create the largest pure-play cobalt exploration and development company in the world. The company's primary focus is on its Greater Cobalt Project, including an option for the former producing Keeley-Frontier mine, a high-grade mine that produced over 3.3 million pounds of cobalt and 19.1 million ounces of silver from 301,000 tonnes of ore, as well as a joint venture on a fully permitted cobalt refinery in Cobalt, Ontario.

On behalf of First Cobalt Corp.

Trent Mell, President & Chief Executive Officer

For more information, visit www.firstcobalt.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects', "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include the reliability of the historical data referenced in this press release and risks set out in First Cobalt's public documents, including in each management discussion and analysis, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although First Cobalt believes that the information and assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed times frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, First Cobalt disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
US$5 Million Loan Facility - US$5 million received in Telson's bank account on September 15, 2017 - Three-year term with six-month grace period followed with 30 repayment installments. - Loan Facility Matures on September 2020 and bears interest at rate equal to LIBOR (3M) +5% - No hedging conditions - No equity based payments Offtake Agreement - 51-month term ending December 2021 for Campo Morado Pb and Zn concentrate production - Fixed minimum tonnage to be sent during the offtake term - Very Competitive industry payable metal terms at LME and LBMA Spot prices - Access to prompt payments 5 days after delivery, providing excellent liquidity to the operation - Competitive transport charges

- Executed loan facility with Trafigura in the amount of US$5 million for working capital- Full funding enables restart of mining and mineral processing at Campo Morado Mine- Full US$5 million has been received into Telson's bank account- The Offtake Agreements are for 100% production of zinc and lead concentrates with a minimum fixed tonnage, starting delivery in October 2017 and ongoing until December 2021Vancouver, September 18th, 2017 - Telson Resources Inc. ("Telson" or the "Company") (TSX Venture - TSN.V) is very pleased to announce it has entered into a Loan Facility and Offtake Agreements (the "Agreements") with Trafigura Mexico S.A. de C.V. ("Trafigura"), a market leader in the global commodities industry, to sell 100% of the lead and zinc concentrate produced at the Campo Morado Mine from the commencement of commercial production estimated during October 2017 and until December 2021. Trafigura has provided Telson with a credit facility of US$5 million thereby securing full working capital requirements to initiate the restart of continuous mining operations at the Campo Morado Mine.Click Image To View Full SizeKey Terms:

Telson has provided industry standard security to Trafigura in the form of a corporate guarantee, a promissory note plus a pledge of the shares of Telson 100% owned subsidiary company Nyrstar Campo Morado, S.A. de C.V. The extent of Telson's liability to Trafigura within the Agreements under Mexican law is limited to the amount of the offtake loan plus interest.

Antonio Berlanga, CEO of Telson, states "We are very happy to be able to deliver to our shareholders this exciting key milestone which has secured Telson not only the US$5 million working capital we were seeking allowing Telson to commence full mining operations at Campo Morado but also, very good concentrate sale terms plus an experienced and professional funding partner recognized worldwide as a leading commodities trader. This working capital will now allow us to finalize the mill clean up and refurbishment, that we initiated immediately after acquiring this project, and commence full-scale mining and mill processing in early October". To view short video of ball mill restart during operational testing - Sept 2017 <click here>.



Click Image To View Full Size

Telson is currently mining underground on Campo Morado at approximately 500 tonnes per day and will, over the next two weeks, add additional equipment and personnel to increase underground mining production toward 2,000 tonnes, or more, per day. In early October, the Company plans to begin the mineral processing mill restart at a planned rate of approximately 1,400 tonnes per day and will methodically and steadily increase the mineral processing mill throughput rate to a planned 2,000 tonnes per day within 6 to 12 months as milling techniques and recoveries are perfected and subsequently increase production to the ultimate capability of the mill which is currently rated at 2,500 tonnes per day.

About Trafigura

Founded in 1993, Trafigura is one of the largest physical commodities trading groups in the world. Trafigura sources, stores, transports and delivers a range of raw materials (including oil and refined products and metals and minerals) to clients around the world. The trading business is supported by industrial and financial assets, including 49.6% owned global oil products storage and distribution company Puma Energy; global terminals, warehousing and logistics operator Impala Terminals; Trafigura's Mining Group; 50% owned DT Group which specializes in logistics and trading; and Galena Asset Management. The Company is owned by around 600 of its 4,100 employees who work in 61 offices in 36 countries around the world. Trafigura has achieved substantial growth over recent years, growing revenue from US$12 billion in 2003 to US$98.1 billion in 2016. The Group has been connecting its customers to the global economy for more than two decades, growing prosperity by advancing trade.

Visit: www.trafigura.com

About Telson Resources Inc.

Telson Resources Inc. is a Canadian based resource development company advancing two gold, silver and base metal projects towards production over the coming months of 2017 and 2018. Telson's Tahuehueto Project, located in north-western Durango State, Mexico and its recently acquired Campo Morado Mine in Guerrero, Mexico purchased from Nyrstar Mining are both polymetallic deposits containing significant gold, silver, lead, zinc and copper. Telson is currently mining ore at Tahuehueto at a rate of approximately 150 tonnes per day and direct shipping to a toll mill for processing off-site. By securing the funding stated in this Press Release, Telson will recommence mineral processing milling operations at Campo Morado in early October while at the same time, subject to additional financing, intends to continue the development of its Tahuehueto Project through the mine construction phase with an anticipated timeline to be processing at the project site in its own mineral processing facility during 2018.

Visit: www.telsonresources.com

On behalf of the board of directors

(signed) "Ralph Shearing"

Ralph Shearing, P.Geol, President and Director

Qualified Person

This press release was prepared under the supervision and review of Ralph Shearing, P.Geol., President and Director of Telson Resources Inc., a Professional Geologist registered in Alberta as a member of the professional organization APEGA, and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, disclosure regarding possible events, conditions or financial performance that is based on assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action; the timing and costs of future activities on the Company's properties, such as production rates and increases; success of exploration, development and bulk sample processing activities; timing for the restart of continuous mining operations at the Campo Morado Mine, and timing for processing at its own mineral processing facility on the Tahuehueto project site. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as "plans", "expects", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or variations of such words and phrases. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, that the current exploration, development, environmental and other objectives concerning the Campo Morado Mine and the Tahuehueto Project can be achieved;, the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions and operations. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. There can be no assurance that Forward-Looking Information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to Forward-Looking Information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events

For further information about Telson Resources Inc., please contact:

Glen Sandwell

Corporate Communications Manager

ir@telsonresources.com

Tel: +1 (604) 684-8071

Copyright (c) 2017 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.


Vancouver, September 18, 2017 - Prospero Silver Corp. (TSXV: PSL) (the "Company" or "Prospero") is pleased to provide an update on planned drilling of the Petate project in Hidalgo State, Mexico. The drilling is being carried out as part of its on-going 6,950 m reconnaissance drill campaign funded by strategic partner Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. ("Fortuna").

The final permission to drill has now been received from the Hidalgo State branch of the Secretariat de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales ("Semarnat") and a rig is now on site. Drilling was scheduled to start overnight on Sunday, September 17, 2017. Prospero plans to drill 12 holes at Petate testing 4 targets: Apartadero SE, Apartadero Central, Tajo and Petate #3. A drill collar plan will be posted shortly on Prospero's website.

The 6,868 hectare Petate property is the most advanced of Prospero's projects. High-level epithermal alteration is exposed over a 5x4 km area with highly anomalous gold and silver hosted in extensive outcrops and float of steep to strata-bound jasperoid. The significant size of the silicified zones indicates that Petate is a robust mineralized system with excellent potential to host a replacement type deposit at depth.

Qualified Person

Tawn Albinson, M.Sc., President of the Company, is a Qualified Person, as defined in NI 43-101, and is responsible for the technical content of this news release. Mr. Albinson is a Member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists and a Certified Professional Geologist (CPG) No. 11368.

About Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.

Fortuna is a growth-oriented, precious metals producer focused on mining opportunities in Latin America. The company's primary assets are the Caylloma silver mine in southern Peru, the San Jose silver-gold mine in Mexico and the Lindero gold project in Argentina.

About Prospero Silver Corp.

Prospero is a Mexico-focused project generator listed on the TSX.V under the symbol PSL.V. Prospero's aim is to discover world-class precious metal projects in the major mineral belts of Mexico. The Company applies a unique blend of practical exploration experience, cutting-edge mineral deposit science, and an extensive knowledge of Mexicos geology to find new gold and silver systems. Our exploration programs are run by a small but highly-focused geological team based in Mexico.

For further information please contact:

Ralph Rushton

Exec VP Business Development

Tel: 604 307 0055

William Murray

Chairman

Tel: 604 288 2553

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions:

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, relating to, among other things, the Company's proposed use of the financing proceeds. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include, possible, accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out the Company's exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise the additional funds in the future to continue to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Company's business and prospects. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

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 RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES


In Meridian, Miss., the town where I grew up, people used to escape the summer heat by sitting on their front porches with a pitcher of lemonade. On those hot afternoons, they chatted with neighbors and strangers who passed by, sometimes inviting them up for a cool drink. They got to know each other that way.Then air-conditioners showed up and moved everyone indoors.Across America, we have turned inward to engage more with our televisions, computers, video games and cellphones instead of with each other. This has led to less understanding of people who are "other," less acceptance, less compassion, greater discord -- and sometimes, as recent events illustrate, even violence.Today, our public spaces are America's front porches: places in our communities where people can mix and mingle, swap stories, do business, flirt, even protest -- and all the other things that humans do when they rub shoulders with one another. And we need them now as much as -- or more than -- ever.During my 16 years as mayor of Meridian, I came to recognize the need for these kinds of public spaces. But I also came to see that they don't just spring up spontaneously. We must create them intentionally, and to do that we must have a vision for the kinds of communities that we want our children and grandchildren to inherit.I recently joined a study tour organized by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Gehl Institute to Copenhagen, where I saw in the parks, the streets, the sidewalks and the outdoor cafes a commitment to building a more social society whose public spaces promote the joy of mingling. Everywhere you go in Copenhagen, people mix with each other. They chat, they play, they listen to music or appreciate outdoor art together. They enjoy being part of the great congress of humanity.These places are not necessarily grand. Many are tiny, simple spaces, perhaps just a patch of shaded ground between two houses with a couple of park benches. But they welcome everyone in the community. Many of them support physical activities like bike riding and walking. They promote health and they bring people together by connecting with everyday activities in ways that are easy and convenient.We certainly have examples of intentional public space-making here in the United States. Take Chattanooga, for example. Surrounded by mountains and sitting on the banks of the Tennessee River, it had turned its back on its gorgeous natural assets. A six-lane highway separated the city from its river, which became horribly polluted. Civic leaders realized that they had to re-engage the community with its natural surroundings. They cleaned up the river and took out several highway lanes to create an outdoor complex with grand steps that link the city's magnificent aquarium with the river. On a nice day, people are everywhere, eating lunch, playing or just sitting and watching the world go by.In New York City, planning officials did the unthinkable: They removed traffic lanes at Herald Square to create a temporary outdoor space with tables and chairs and landscaping for people to claim -- which they did, with great enthusiasm. Even in New York, people hungered for small, simple places where they could commune with each other.These days, in my current role with Transportation for America, I often consult with communities contemplating major renewal projects. I advise them to ask themselves three questions:Why did the founders of your community build it where they did? Was it because of proximity to a river or railroad? To start a farming community or a trading community?Look in the mirror. What choices has your community made over the years, and what have been the results of those choices? What essential element of your community's identity has been lost and how can it be recovered?Look 40 years into the future and imagine the community you want your grandchildren to inherit. If you can't, you may not be ready to begin your work.In Copenhagen, they recognize that rich community life requires rich social interaction in public spaces -- a social society, if you will. In America, we can create more vibrant and diverse communities for our children. And it's up to us as governors, mayors, council members, city planners and engaged citizens to make that happen.So let's ask ourselves: Who do we want to be as a place, as a people? And then let's design public spaces that nurture that vision and open our minds to the understanding of "neighbor."
Most Pennsylvanians avoided the big budget hurt when the state ran out of money Friday to cover $2.5 billion in bills amid a months-long budget stalemate in the state Capitol.With the Legislature unable to pass tax and revenue bills to pay for the state budget since July, Gov. Tom Wolf announced the state temporarily would default on medical and pension bills rather than not pay state employees or shut down programs.Wolf delayed a $1.2 billion payment that was due Friday to eight state-contracted managed care providers. The providers act as middleman in paying doctors, hospitals and nursing homes that treat poor, infirm, elderly and disabled who qualify for government-funded Medicaid. That means either the providers have to get loans to cover their bills or skip their own payments to those on the front lines of care until the state pays its bills.The governor also postponed the state's $581 million payment that was due Monday for its share of pension obligations to the Pennsylvania School Employees Retirement System. Wolf spokesman J.J. Abbott did not offer a time frame for when that bill would be paid to the system, which already was carrying about $43 billion in debt.The governor also has asked Republican legislative leaders in the House and Senate to talk this weekend about settling the budget.By postponing those two bills, the state was able to cover about $81 million in payroll and $100 million in bond debt that were also due on Friday.Abbott said the state will not have the medical money for at least another week. He did not offer a time frame for when the pension payment would be met."As a result of the ongoing budget stalemate, the commonwealth today was forced to delay significant payments given the failure to pass a complete budget and fully fund the appropriations approved overwhelmingly 76 days ago," Abbott said.The state has been without a fully operational budget since the Legislature approved a nearly $32 billion spending plan on June 30, but also neglected to pass various tax and programmatic code bills to pay for the spending.The unfinished budget is the latest example of the Legislature and governor's inability to work together to pass balanced budgets. The state has had deficits for several years, even though the constitution says the budgets must be balanced. Its structural deficit is pegged at $2.2 billion through June 30, 2018, without cuts, tax increases, one-time transfers or a combination of those scenarios.In July, the Republican-controlled Senate passed bipartisan bills to raise utility taxes for electricity, natural gas and phones, as well as institute a new tax on natural gas drillers to generate $611 million in new revenue. It also relied on a $1.3 billion bond from proceeds of the state's tobacco settlement fund.Since then, Wolf had been warning the state would run out of money and he would have to make tough decisions on how to manage the state's finances. Last week, Treasurer Joe Torsella and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, both Democrats, said they were disinclined to approve short-term treasury loans to the state to cover costs.House Republicans, who objected to the Senate plan, called Wolf's warnings bogus, saying tax money continues to roll in.But on Thursday, Rep. Stan Saylor, R-York, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, implored Torsella and DePasquale to issue short-term loans to cover expenses. The House's budget vote on Wednesday "provides a basis for budget negotiations to continue between the governor and the General Assembly."They didn't and Wolf froze the medical and pension payments.The payment freezes came two days after the Republican-controlled House narrowly approved its own budget bill that did not include tax increases on utilities and natural gas drillers as the Senate's budget bills did to raise an additional $611 million.Instead of higher taxes, the House would rely on about $630.5 million in fund transfers from special accounts that cover transportation, environmental, hazardous waste cleanup and a variety of other public projects. That amount was far lower than the $2.4 billion in transfers a group of conservative House lawmakers had originally proposed but scaled back under intense pressure from moderate Republicans, Wolf administration and special interest groups.Like the Senate bill, the House would rely largely on borrowing more than $1 billion from the state's tobacco settlement fund. The GOP House used semantics to get that borrowing plan passed its more conservative caucus, which is generally opposed to the state issuing more bonds. The House called it's tobacco plan a "sale" of some fund proceeds to potential bidders, but like a bond, that money must be repaid with interest over time.Unlike the Senate bill, the House's bill also does not include about $600 million in funding for state-related universities: Penn State, Temple, Pitt and Lincoln."Though the Senate passed a package that addressed our structural deficit, recurring revenue that funds all approved appropriations and separate funding legislation for state-related universities has not yet been sent to the governor's desk," Abbott said.The Senate is back in session on Monday."The House took six weeks to deliver us a plan," said Jenn Kocher, spokeswoman for Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-Centre. "We felt it was responsible to take a few days to go over it with a fine-tooth comb. Our plan is to have significant information for members of our caucus on Monday to discuss."The longer the stalemate goes on, the more taxpayers will pay if Wall Street bond rating companies go through with their threat to raise the cost of the state's bonds due to unstable politics.
Leaders of BRICS countries take a group photo. [Xinhua]

China's recent diplomatic efforts have involved a number of separate but frequently interlocking annual high-level meetings.

This is, of course, most constructive, given the increasing networking of the worlds economies, but it's always possible that work on one area can be eclipsed by more attractive or more urgent work on another. Inevitably, the focus of world attention will shift from time to time.

These days, it could be argued that much of the substance of the BRICS economic agenda has been subsumed, for China at least, given the wider concerns of the Belt and Road initiative.

All BRICS partner countries represent important nodes in the global network that China is attempting to establish with her flagship program. Also, current weaknesses in the global economy have led to a reining-in of expectations.

President Xi Jinping recognized this in his opening speech at the BRICS summit in Xiamen, saying, "The global economy remains in a period of adjustment, with weakness in growth and an apparent absence of new economic drivers. This sluggish growth has given rise to an inward-looking mentality and protectionist tendencies."

China, as we know, maintains an absolute commitment to openness and free trade.

Despite these problems, the four State Presidents of China, Russia, Brazil and South Africa, plus Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, managed to put together a comprehensive and constructive agenda on September 3-5.

Unsurprisingly, in the current international climate, the focus shifted somewhat from traditional economic to security issues; on those issues, larger states like those comprising BRICS necessarily assume a weightier role.

Nonetheless, China led the way in broadening the base for talks at the BRICS summit by inviting leaders of smaller countries to participate in a parallel forum, the Dialogue of Emerging Markets and Developing Countries, where the leaders of Egypt, Guinea, Mexico, Tajikistan and Thailand joined the BRICS leaders in discussing the global development and South-South cooperation agendas.

This is an advance on the previous BRICS outreach programs, which formerly only featured neighbors of the host country.

However, prior to the summit, there were worries that recent dissensions between China and India might present an obstacle to discussions, following the long border stand-off at Doklam. Some good preparatory work was done between the two leaders at the G20 summit in Hamburg in July, and there has been a noticeable relaxation of tension since then, enabling the Indian and Chinese leaders to meet in Xiamen on better terms.

There are other running issues between the two Asian giants, in particular the fact that one of the strongest cooperative partnerships in the Belt and Road program in Asia is that between China and Pakistan, Indias long-standing regional rival.

This cooperation requires Chinese security support to safeguard the infrastructural projects against terrorism, causing India some disquiet at times.

Still, so long as Chinese and Indian leaders are talking (they had a bilateral session on the margins of the conference), progress towards a relaxation of tensions is being made.

And the summit agreed, for the first time, to mention in its Joint Declaration certain Pakistan-based Islamist organizations by name as terrorist conspirators, further helping cordiality between India and China, who have a common interest in fighting terrorism in South Asia.

President Xi described the guiding principle of the BRICS process as "dialogue without confrontation, partnership without alliance." This represents the shape of recent Chinese diplomatic efforts aimed at establishing a multi-layered network (bilateral and multilateral) throughout the world, underpinning long-term global stability with a web of mutually beneficial economic interests giving each country a stake in cooperation.

Obviously, China is not in a position to mastermind all these networks, except for the Belt and Road Initiative, a truly Chinese project; they simply arise as the result of various initiatives from various countries, and China makes what use of them it can, all the time aiming for maximum integration between the different networks.

However, this approach is a genuine new departure for China, which previously had a reputation for standing rather aloof from multilateral diplomacy, no doubt in pursuit of the long-standing Chinese policy of avoiding entangling alliances.

Now, however, it recognizes it is perfectly possible to enter into mutually beneficial international partnerships without in any way compromising ones freedom of action. This is a major step in promoting world peace.

Tim Collard is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/timcollard.htm
State Rep. Victoria Neave agrees that everyday Texans shouldn't have to pass around a figurative hat to help rape victims get justice; footing the costly bill to test sexual assault kits should be the job of government, she says.But since the state and localities seldom allocate enough money to test kits as they come in, the Dallas Democrat is hoping generous Texans will help.A new law Neave authored will essentially crowdfund rape kit testing statewide. House Bill 1729, which took effect Sept. 1, directs the Department of Public Safety to allow Texans to contribute to that cause when applying for and renewing drivers licenses and personal identification certificates.Applications already ask whether folks want to donate $1 or more to a few other causes: veterans, the states organ and tissue registry and the Blindness Education Screening and Treatment Program. Beginning Jan. 1, applications will also allow donations to test sexual assault kits.There are women sitting for years sometimes waiting for justice, said Neave, a freshman in the Legislature this year. A dollar can go a long way toward bringing someone peace.State Rep. Victoria Neave, D-Dallas, authored a House bill that would allow crowdfunding for rape kit testing in Texas.Police gather such kits through hours-long, invasive exams of sexual assault victims, and they can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to analyze. Forensic analysts and advocates say testing the kits is crucial to solving cases, finding serial rapists and acquitting the wrongfully accused.The crowdfunding law, coupled with a new two-year budget appropriation of $4.2 million, is the states latest effort to reduce a backlog of untested kits that swelled for years.In 2011, the Legislature enacted requirements that law enforcement agencies submit newly gathered kits for testing within 30 days  an ambitious target thats not always met. Public safety officials reported a 20,000-kit backlog in August of that year, and lawmakers in 2013 injected $11 million into addressing it.Through May of this year, the pre-2011 backlog still sat above 3,000, while thousands of new sexual assaults occur each year in Texas. In Austin this June, mold was found growing on the outside of hundreds of kits that had sat in police storage since the 1990s, according to the Austin American-Statesman.Seriously, this has been a problem emblematic of the devaluing of survivors of gender-based violence, really system-wide, said Chris Kaiser, director of public policy for the nonprofit Texas Association Against Sexual Assault. But the Legislature deserves a lot of credit for addressing the problem when it came to light.A fiscal note on Neaves bill estimates crowdfunding would bring in about $1 million each year for testing, based upon what other programs featured on drivers license applications take in.Any money is a help, said Peter Stout, president and CEO of the Houston Forensic Science Center. But the resourcing to do this stuff right and to get this stuff done in a time that makes a difference is substantial. And as a whole  across the country  were still short of where we need to be.Houston drew praise in 2015 for overcoming a backlog of more than 6,600 untested kits  a two-year effort that registered 850 hits in the FBIs nationwide DNA database and led to charges against 29 people at the time.Officials at the Houston Forensic Science Center, which typically receives 80 to 100 new kits each month, said it took a multimillion-dollar commitment from the city  on top of any help from the state  to tackle the problem.The city recently fell slightly behind in its 30-day goal of turning around tests, partly due to new, more detailed FBI requirements for chemistry analysis, but it expects to soon be back on track.In terms of investigating, its huge that all these kits be tested, said Amy Castillo, chief operations officer at the center. Rape survivors, she added, deserve that their kit be processed.
California will not legalize safe injection sites for drug users this year after a state bill failed to pass the Senate on the last day of the legislative session Friday.State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, a co-author of the bill, said he intended to ask the Senate to reconsider the proposal after it failed by two votes Tuesday night, but apparently the support wasnt there and no vote occurred.Assemblywoman Susan Eggman, D-Stockton, who introduced the bill, announced her decision late Friday that she wouldnt ask for the bill to be reconsidered by the Senate.Tonight I decided with my dedicated co-authors  that I would not bring Assembly Bill 186 up for another vote prior to the end of the session, Eggman said in a statement posted on Twitter Friday night. We have made incredible progress on this life-saving policy, from not getting a vote in policy committee last year all the way to the Senate floor.While I am disappointed that the bill will not pass at this time, I am committed to finding a way forward next year. The opioid epidemic continues and new solutions are desperately need.
State agencies including the State Police won't be allowed to ask a person about his or her immigration status in most cases, under an executive order issued by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo Friday.Police won't be able to ask whether a person is in the United States illegally when a person contacts police as a victim of a crime, is a witness or is seeking assistance, according to the order.State agencies also won't be able to ask about immigration status unless the law requires it or the information is needed to provide benefits or services.The executive order is the latest effort by the Democratic governor to combat a crackdown on illegal immigration by the administration of President Donald Trump."As Washington squabbles over rolling back sensible immigration policy, we are taking action to help protect all New Yorkers from unwarranted targeting by government," Cuomo said in a statement."New York became the Empire State due to the contributions of immigrants from every corner of the globe and we will not let the politics of fear and intimidation divide us," Cuomo said.State Conservative Party Chairman Michael Long said Cuomo's order "undermines the very essence of what made New York State the Empire State.""The immigrants who contributed so much to our Empire State, came here legally," Long said. "We are proud of being a melting pot of legal immigration. It is illegal immigration that we oppose; when you enter illegally you make the statement that the rule of law does not apply to you."Governor Cuomo's executive order gives immigrants who have entered our beloved country illegally his blessing to disregard the rule of law and allows illegal immigrants to reap the benefits created by a society that is based on the rule of law," Long said in a statement.Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) was among many Democrats to applause Cuomo's action."Protecting our country's borders does not require using fear to intimidate honest, hardworking people who have made this country their home," Heastie said.Cuomo's order states: "The reporting of unlawful activity by immigrant witnesses and victims is critical to strengthening ties between immigrants and law enforcement, reducing crime, and enhancing the State's ability to protect the safety of all of its residents."An executive order doesn't require approval by the Legislature, but could be challenged in the courts.
It turns out that the city of College Park did not have enough votes after all to grant voting rights to noncitizens, officials said Saturday.The College Park City Council voted 4-3 with one member abstaining Tuesday night on an amendment to the city's charter that would allow noncitizens to vote in municipal elections. But charter amendments need six votes of the eight-member council, the city announced Saturday.That rule was changed in June, and the mayor and council members said they neglected to note that they needed six votes."We each accept our responsibility for not realizing the impact of the June charter amendment on Council procedures and we apologize to our residents," the mayor and council said in a statement.The Washington Post reported Wednesday that the mayor and city council of College Park voted to make the change Tuesday night. It expands local voting rights to undocumented immigrants, student-visa holders and residents.It was not immediately clear whether the council would reconsider the idea of allowing noncitizens to vote. It plans to discuss the matter at its next work session on Tuesday.The issue has spurred passionate debate since it was introduced in June, and Tuesday's vote occurred during a tense meeting. Residents who supported the change said it was about civil rights. Those who opposed it said voting is a privilege that immigrants should earn with citizenship.Had the change been legally approved, College Park would have become the 10th and largest municipality in Maryland to allow noncitizens to vote in local elections.One of the first to allow noncitizen voting was Takoma Park, a liberal Montgomery County community that approved the measure during a referendum vote in 1991. The neighboring community of Hyattsville approved a similar measure last year.Had the measure been approved, the College Park city clerk would have created a supplemental voter list that would include noncitizens who meet other qualifications to vote in the city, such as being 18 years old and not being registered to vote elsewhere. The changes would have gone into effect for the next round of city elections in 2019.Federal law only prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections, according to the city. It does not prohibit cities or states from allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections.
California is poised to become the nation's strictest "sanctuary state," restricting state and local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration authoritiesand forbidding them from asking about a person's immigration status.The legislation, which was introduced last December as a direct response to Trumps victory and hardline stance on immigration, is the first of its kind to pass in the Trump era. It passed the state Assembly on Friday and the state Senate on Saturday by a vote of 27-11, along party lines, just a day after a federal judge blocked Trumps attempt to defund sanctuary cities. It is now on the governors desk, awaiting hisexpected signature."That word, 'sanctuary,' has deep meaning. It suggests refuge, safety, a place of belonging," says Joseph McKellar, co-director of the advocacy organization PICO California. "A bill like this sends an incredibly important message to immigrants and their families that they're wanted here."Weeks of negotiations with Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown resulted in a significantly watered-down bill , but its still the furthest-reaching legislation of its kind anywhere in the country.Oregon became a sanctuary state 30 years ago, prohibiting the use of state and local resources for immigration enforcement when the immigrant in question hasnt committed a crime. That law, however, has recently come under fire , and conservative groups are hoping to put the issue before voters in 2018. In August, Illinois passed what some have called a "sanctuary state" law because it preventsstate and local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration agents unless they have a warrant.Neither of those laws offer as many protections as Californias.Among its many provisions, the bill prevents local jails from holding onto inmates who would otherwise be released just to give the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) time to pick them up. It also places strict limits on ICE transfers, or the practice of notifying ICE when an inmate is going to be released. And it places limits on "joint taskforces," or teams of federal agents and local officers that work together, most often in gang enforcement.Sanctuary state bills similar to California's have been introduced in Colorado and New Mexico this year, but both of those measures have slim chances of making it out of the legislature.In New Mexico, the legislation could feasibly make it out of the Democratic-controlled House and Senate, but it stands virtually no chance with Republican Gov. Susana Martinez, who in 2011 overturned an executive order preventing police from inquiring about immigration status. In Colorado, the bill has no support from the Republicans, which dominate the state Senate.Even though California is one of the most pro-immigrant states in the country, the bill's path to the governor's mansion wasn't easy. The bill faced opposition from some local councils and from the California State Sheriffs Association, which were not appeased even after the bills many amendments.The law enforcement organization argues that the bill still leaves out some serious offenses, and it could end up endangering public safety.The Trump administration, too, has made its displeasure known: A U.S. Department of Justice spokesperson last week said the state was attempting to codify a commitment to returning criminal aliens back onto our streets.In its original iteration, the California bill barred state andlocal law enforcement from cooperating with ICE except regarding inmates who committed serious or violent felonies. But the final version widely expanded the list of crimes that can have an undocumented immigrant turned over to federal authorities. It now includes 800 offenses, some of which are minor drug offenses and nonviolent property offenses, says Angela Chan, policy director and senior staff attorney at Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Asian Law Caucus.Both McKellar and Chan say that, despite the compromises, the bill will make a real, material impact for immigrants across the state, particularly those who live in areas without sanctuary policies, like San Diego, the Inland Empire and the Central Valley. These tend to be areas that lack the deep organizational roots of places like Los Angeles and San Francisco, where immigrants and advocates have been able to mobilize against police cooperation with ICE more effectively, says McKellar. The bill will also eliminate the states last remaining 287(g) contract (which spells out extensive cooperation between ICE and local law enforcement) in Orange County.We know this isnt a perfect bill. We had an internal debate and asked ourselves, 'do we push so hard for a better bill that we risk a veto? Or do we take this as a victory?' says McKellar. In the end, we opted for the latter because our people need to taste victory right now.McKellar says he hopes this bill can act as a jumping off point for future sanctuary bills in the state and a model for states around the country that might be considering one. He says bills like this one will cut to the heart of what state action looks like against Trumps immigration policies, if only for the weight and significance of the word sanctuary to immigrant ears.
Chicago's criminal justice system has seen relentless stains on its reputation in the last few years. In 2015, the city released a disturbing video of Laquan McDonalds shooting , disproving officers claims that the teenager had been killed in self-defense. Crime and violence in the city continues to spiral out of control . And this January, the U.S. Department of Justice released a scathing report on the department, describing a culture of excessive force, bad training and cover-ups.But the police force isnt the only place plagued by dysfunction. The court system there shares some of the same problems, and one professor embedded herself into it to better understand them.Nicole Gonzalez Van Cleve, a researcher and criminal justice professor at Temple University, spent 10 years gathering information on the Cook County court system, which includes the city of Chicago. She even worked as an intern and a law clerk in a prosecutors office for several years. After collecting 1,000 hours of observation, Van Cleve wrote, a searing indictment of the criminal justice system that alleges racism, intimidation and unprofessionalism from prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges and police officers.Unfortunately, Van Cleve says, Cook County is quite ordinary in its profound dysfunction.In the book, Van Cleve focuses on how authority figures treat victims, defendants and their families. She takes that approach because, she says, the publics perceptions determine whether government institutions can function effectively."When the government stops serving the people, or when people feel mistreated by government, it has lasting effects," she says. "How do you get young people to follow direction from police officers? How do you get the public to see them as being helpers rather than someone who is going to harm young men or plant drugs on them?"spoke with Van Cleve about her research, how customer service ratings inspired it and what she thinks can be done to improve courtroom culture.The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.Crook County is not a term that I made up. It came from the communities that are most impacted by the criminal justice system in Chicago. It's their critique of a criminal justice system that has lost its way and that acts in these illegal ways that blur the lines between who the true criminals are. You will often see protesters with signs that say "Crook County Judge," referring to these judges who let police officers off after shooting an unarmed suspect.For me, there is something valuable about honoring the people most impacted by the system -- whether they're defendants, victims or family members. In some ways, they own the title of my book.I was part of an internship program that allowed Northwestern University students to both gather social science data and get work experience. I chose the prosecutor's office because at that time I really felt compelled by the mission of a prosecutor. I felt that prosecutors were advocating for victims, and that's kind of the side I wanted to be on.But once I saw who was being held accountable in the courts, I saw that these people weren't there for violent crimes. Half of the cases were nonviolent felony infractions and oftentimes possession of drugs the size of a sugar packet.One of the things that I thought about is, if I'm a lone researcher studying this court system, what do I need to do to compel the chief judge or the chief prosecutor to really believe the findings? And so I thought about this idea of appraising public institutions based on the consumers they serve. I thought of this from working in the private sector. If you work for a profit-based company, you often evaluate customer service ratings. We often don't think about that in terms of our public institutions. How are these institutions serving the people? That is in some ways the highest bar for the court system. There is no other institution that can take away your freedom and serve justice, right?So that became the principle and the inspiration behind sending 130 anonymous court watchersto all 25 courts in Chicago. They collected an additional thousand hours of data looking at how justice was served in terms of individuals. How were victims, families, witnesses and defendants treated in those courtrooms?For our public systems -- be it the mayor's offices, be it courtrooms, even the DMV -- any time you walk in and the government's insignia is over that institution it's important that there is a sense of legitimacy in it. That, to me, underpins everything.If you have a lack of legitimacy in policing, for example, that fuels the types of violence we see on the street because people can't trust that the police will stand in and protect them rather than harm them. And when that happens, people turn to gangs to save them.One of the first things that researchers saw when they went into the courts was just a lack of regard for human life. When you walked into the courthouse, you literally saw almost a shantytown of people waiting in lines that snaked out the door while professionals were pulled alongside through a special kind of "VIP entrance," if you will.It was everything from malfunctioning bathrooms for defendants and their families, to lack of food, to sheriff's officers who were so intimidating that grandmothers literally would walk toward the gallery to ask basic questions with their hands up. How do we balance creating order with maintaining people's dignity, you know?And then there were also lots of abuses of power. Everything from a judge appearing to fall asleep during a trial to a sheriff wrapping an extension cord around a defendant's chair because he had the audacity to ask for a jury trial. These types of antics became part of the everyday practice of justice.The final thing was the level of basically overt racism. Judges and prosecutors and sheriffs were often using racial tropes or mocking defendants and their families using kind of African-American English. They had these coded racial slurs. They often called defendants the word "mope," which had all the stigmatizing bad meanings that one would associate with a racial slur.It's important to think about, what can good prosecutors or good judges or good government employees do in the face of such abuse of power? Being a whistleblower is often an extremely scary thing.In the book, for example, one prosecutor came forward and said that he had a case where a suspect was shot and that the police officer's stories weren't making sense. He kept trying to go up the chain of command to ask for help, and at every step of the way, all the way up to the chief prosecutor, he was ignored. At one point, they throw an ashtray at him. So you have someone trying to do the right thing, but the court culture made it so that individuals could not stand up for what was right.I think that's the greatest challenge: How do you empower people who want to do the right thing to be able to do it and actually try to make a change within an institution?
In a ruling with national significance, a federal judge in Chicago on Friday blocked the Trump administration's rules requiring so-called sanctuary cities to cooperate with immigration agents in order to get a public safety grant.U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber held that Chicago has shown a "likelihood of success" in its arguments that U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions exceeded his authority in imposing new standards governing Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants across the country.He also said Mayor Rahm Emanuel's administration has shown the city could suffer "irreparable harm" in its relationship with the immigrant community if it were to comply with the U.S. Department of Justice's new standards."Once such trust is lost, it cannot be repaired through an award of money damages, making it the type of harm that is especially hard to rectify" were he to wait until the lawsuit is settled, Leinenweber wrote in the 41-page ruling.The preliminary injunction granted by Leinenweber applies to districts nationwide.At a hastily arranged news conference at City Hall on Friday, Emanuel cast the ruling as a national victory against the immigration policies of President Donald Trump."I want to be clear, this is not just a victory for the city of Chicago," the mayor said. "It is a win for cities, counties and states across the country who also filed amicus briefs on behalf of our lawsuit, and also the business leaders who also stepped forward on our lawsuit."City Corporation Counsel Ed Siskel said 37 municipal and county governments filed friends-of-the-court briefs in the case.Emanuel went on to call the ruling "an affirmation of the rule of law.""It's an assertion of our most fundamental American values, and it's an unambiguous, clear rejection of the false choice that the Trump Justice Department wanted Chicago to make between our values, our principles and our priorities," Emanuel said.Representatives of the Justice Department did not immediately return messages seeking comment. Options include asking Leinenweber to reconsider his ruling or filing an appeal directly to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.The ruling comes a little more than a month after the Emanuel administration filed suit against the Justice Department over its new requirements for sanctuary cities that want federal funding to give notice when immigrants in the country illegally are about to be released from custody and allow immigration agents access to local jails.The new regulations, announced by Sessions in July, would also require local authorities to give 48 hours' notice "where practicable" before releasing from custody people who federal immigration agents suspect of being in the country illegally.In oral arguments last month, lawyers for the city argued that keeping people longer than 48 hours is unconstitutional and that the move by Sessions represented a slippery slope that could lead to other strings on federal money tied to administration priorities.Chicago has already applied for $1.5 million in Byrne grants for next year, and other local municipalities and Cook County have requested about $800,000 more as part of the same application.It's a minuscule piece of Chicago's roughly $9.8 billion municipal budget. Politically, however, the issue has taken on importance for the mayor, who wants to establish himself as a leader among the country's mayors.The ruling Friday means Emanuel gets to claim a victory over the Trump Justice Department that could appeal to Chicago's sizable Latino community and the city's overwhelmingly Democratic electorate.And with Leinenweber's ruling being applied nationwide, he can point to a signature moment in the movement of big-city mayors across the U.S. taking steps to oppose Trump's immigration agenda.Emanuel has been declaring himself a protector of immigrants in the U.S. illegally since before Trump was sworn in, appearing with U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez within days of Trump's victory over Hillary Clinton to promise he would stand up for Chicago's "values and principles as it relates to inclusion."It's a theme he has hammered in the months since, sponsoring various pro-immigrant measures in the City Council and declaring Chicago a city that will continue to welcome immigrants.Arguing for the city last week, attorney Ronald Safer said the Byrne grants were set up specifically by Congress to give local governments leeway to decide how best to allocate money to meet their law-enforcement priorities. Sessions is attempting to "sweep away the goals of the (Byrne) JAG program," Safer said.If Sessions is allowed to take this step, he could conceivably try to exercise much broader authority over what cities have to do to qualify for this or other grants, Safer said."This attorney general could say, 'We believe building a wall is related to law enforcement, so unless you send four squads of Chicago police to help build the wall, you will get no JAG money,'" Safer said.Assistant Attorney General Chad Readler countered there are already several strings attached to the Byrne grants, among them an Obama-administration requirement that cities don't use the money on military-style weapons. Standards are also in place for the types of police body armor that can be purchased with the money, Readler said.If Chicago doesn't like the rules, the city can simply opt not to apply for the money, Readler said.But in his ruling Friday, Leinenweber was clear that the attorney general overstepped his authority by imposing the special conditions, agreeing with the city's argument that it was an attempt to usurp power from Congress over the country's purse strings."The Executive Branch cannot impose the conditions without congressional authority," wrote Leinenweber, adding that "efforts to impose them violate the separation of powers doctrine."Leinenweber, 80, was appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1985. He previously served as a Republican representative in the Illinois House from 1973 to 1983.At Friday's news conference, Emanuel noted the Byrne grants are awarded based on a population formula. He said he looks forward to the Justice Department responding to Chicago's application to the funds with $1.5 million he plans to spend on Shot Spotter technology _ which captures audio of gunfire and attempts to pinpoint its location for officers to respond more quickly.Asked if he's concerned the Trump administration will try to find another reason not to award Chicago the money, Emanuel contended federal officials have no further way to do so."In my view, there's no cloud as it relates to trying to use the Byrne grant to coerce the city off its values. The judge was very clear about that," Emanuel said. "We have an application. I'm letting you know the application is in."
On Friday, in the morning, at Government House, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs de Jersey hosted an Investiture Ceremony for residents of Queensland, recipients of Australian honours and awards announced in the The Queens Birthday 2017 Honours List and the Australia Day 2017 Honours List.

In the evening, at the Queensland Conservatorium, South Bank, the Governor attended the 2017 Lev Vlassenko Piano Competition and Festival  Grand Final Concert and addressed guests.
Description

GIS -18 September, 2017: A sensitisation workshop on the Kigali Amendment in the context of activities marking the 2017 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer was launched this morning by the Minister of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Environment and Sustainable Development, Mr Etienne Sinatambou, at the Intercontinental Hotel in Balaclava in presence of other eminent personalities.

In his address, Minister Sinatambou highlighted that Mauritius, since its adherence to the Montreal Protocol in 1992, has been actively engaged in the phasing out of hydro fluorocarbons (HCFCs) with the collaboration of various key stakeholders. Other actions taken comprise: training of Customs Officers in the fight against illegal trade of ozone depleting substances; capacity building for technicians for the safe use and handling of hydrocarbons in air conditioning units; and, installation of a Carbon Dioxide Cascade system at the Universite des Mascareignes, he recalled.

The Minister underscored that this workshop provides an ideal platform regarding the various implications of the Kigali Amendment and the process towards its ratification. Mali, Rwanda and Norway are amongst the countries to have already ratified the Kigali Amendment, he pointed out.

He underlined the importance of the ozone layer which acts as a shield to sustain life on earth and prevents harmful ultraviolet radiation emitted by the Sun. Ozone layer depletion allows more ultraviolet rays to reach the Planet and in turn, cause harmful impacts on the environment as well as increase possibilities of eye cataracts and skin-related diseases for human beings, he added.

For his part, the Legal and Compliance Officer Ozone Secretariat of the United Nations Environment Programme, Dr Gilbert Bankobeza, underscored that Mauritius over the years has demonstrated its willingness to safeguard the atmosphere and sustain a resilient environment. It is high time to focus on environmental protection and to consider the technical as well the financial aspects regarding the effective implementation of the Kigali Amendment, he urged.

The theme retained for this year's International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is Caring for all life under the sun. It also marks the 30th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and the relentless efforts of different countries for its successful implementation in the phasing out of ozone depleting substances. The Montreal Protocol signifies a global commitment to combat climate change towards the restoration of the ozone layer.

Several activities are being organised to mark the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2017 in Mauritius. These include a one-day awareness programme on the importance of having Certified Technicians in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector; training of Technicians on hydrocarbon technology; and, a half-day workshop for students of the University of Mauritius.

International Day and the Montreal Protocol

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 September as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer in 1994. Since then, countries which are Parties to the Montreal Protocol have agreed to get rid of substances threatening the ozone layer.

The Montreal Protocol supports the new mandate to phase down climate-warming HCFCs under the Kigali Amendment which was adopted at the 28th Meeting of Parties to the Montreal Protocol in Kigali in 2016.
On Emergency Preparedness: What Have We Learned After Harvey and Irma?
 Flash

Tourists and monks attend a ceremony of gratitude at the Grand Hall of the Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai on Sunday. The hall was moved 31 meters north and raised 1 meter. (Gao Erqiang/China Daily)

Work to move the Grand Hall of Shanghai's Jade Buddha Temple 31 meters north and raise it 1 meter from the place it has stood for almost century was completed on Sunday.

The temple was first built in 1882 on the outskirts of Shanghai. It is named for the two jade Buddha statues it houses. Destroyed by fire, it was reconstructed in 1918 at its current downtown location.

Abbots of the temple decided to relocate the saffron-painted Grand Hall three years ago because of safety concerns and to protect the wooden structure. The temple welcomes about 2 million visitors a year, and daily visitors on occasions such as Chinese New Year Eve can top 100,000.

A special ceremony attended by monks, abbots and thousands of Buddhist faithful was held on Sunday morning to celebrate the successful relocation of the hall after two weeks of work.

The 2,000-metric-ton structure was moved together with three clay Buddha sculptures and other relics it contained.

"The challenge was like walking and carrying a tray of tofu to a destination," said Lan Wuji, founder of Evolution Shift, the company behind the project, which also handled the relocation of Shanghai Music Hall in 2003.

Lan said because the temple was built much earlier and there were no schematics, its move was a much more difficult job than the relocation of the music hall.

It was later found, through radar technology, that the foundation of the Grand Hall was made from rocks glued together with a mixture of lime and glutinous rice, rather than cement or steel.

Ten rails were created along which the hall was moved to its new site at a speed of 3 centimeters per minute. Forty-six hydraulic jacks were placed under the foundation to lift the entire structure off the ground.

Around 20,000 bricks will be used to fill the gap below the structure, as it is now 1 meter higher than before. Members of the public can pay 200 yuan ($30) to have their name inscribed on one of the bricks before the end of September, when they will be inserted.

After the new foundation is complete, a bell and drum tower, as well as a hall dedicated to Kuan Yin, the goddess of mercy, will be added to the Grand Hall to complete the temple's function and architectural style, a typical Buddhist temple in East China.

The whole renovation is expected to be finished in the first part of next year.
(TNS) - While Hurricane Jose continued to kick up high surf and coastal flooding in Volusia and Flagler counties Sunday, Hurricane Maria formed to the east of the Leeward Islands.Late Sunday it appeared Maria would move northward in the Atlantic Ocean, east of Florida. Much is dependent on whether a ridge of high pressure allows the storm to move northward.Maria is forecast to become a major hurricane today, and by Wednesday the storm is forecast to become a Category 4 hurricane with winds of more than 140 mph, the National Hurricane Center said Sunday evening. The storm is forecast to move through the Leeward Islands, many already reeling from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Irma. Hurricane watches have been posted in the US and British Virgin Islands.Maria is forecast to move over Puerto Rico as it reaches peak intensity on Wednesday, prompting concerns across the island.Jose, passing far to the east of Florida, prompted rip current warnings and coastal flooding advisories from the National Weather Service over the weekend. Volusia County Beach Safety reported 15 people had to be rescued from the surf over the weekend, as the surf greatly increased. Beach safety officials also warned of the risk of submerged debris from Hurricane Irma.Jose has prompted tropical storm watches from Delaware to Cape Cod. Its moderate to large swells are forecast to continue to affect the eastern Florida coast through mid week, the Weather Service said, causing rip currents and poor offshore boating conditions.Tropical Depression Lee is forecast to become a remnant low on Monday, far out east in the Atlantic Ocean.Ahead of Maria's path, the Hurricane Center said hurricane warnings are in effect for Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat and Martinique. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, on of the islands devastated by Irma.Ahurricane watch is in effect for the Virgin Islands, Saba, St. Maarten, St. Martin and Anguilla.In Puerto Rico, the Governor, Ricardo Rossello, stated officials had prepared about 450 shelters with a capacity of nearly 68,000 people, the Associated Press reported Sunday. Puerto Rico was spared the worst of Irma, but electricity was knocked out to much of the island.Gov. Ricardo Rossello said officials had prepared about 450 shelters with a capacity for nearly 68,000 people  or even 125,000 in an emergency, the AP reported. He said schools were cancelled for Monday and government employees would work only a half day.Officials in the Dominican Republic urged people to leave areas prone to flooding and said fishermen should remain in port.2017 The News-Journal, Daytona Beach, Fla.Visit The News-Journal, Daytona Beach, Fla. at www.news-journalonline.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(TNS) - Tropical Storm Marias westward march across the Atlantic is continuing Sunday, with the storm expected to become a hurricane later in the day, the National Hurricane Center said Sunday.The strong tropical storm has sustained winds of up to 65 mph and higher gusts.Tropical storm conditions extend out about 60 miles from the storms center, forecasters said.As of 2 p.m., the storm was 405 miles east of the Leeward Islands, traveling at 15 mph. It is expected to strengthen as it makes its way west, forcing Caribbean islands to prepare for Marias arrival even as they recover from the destruction Hurricane Irma left behind a week ago.Forecaster Jerry Combs of the National Weather Service in Melbourne says it is way too early to predict what kind of impact  if any  the storm will have Florida, but it seems to be following a similar track to last weeks monster hurricane.The storm  which Combs said could grow to a Category 3 hurricane  is expected to be near Puerto Rico by Wednesday night.Rosalina Vazquez, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in San Juan, said the eye of the storm is expected to travel right over or north of the island.Vazquez said forecasters measured wind gusts of up to 114 mph in the small island of Culebra during Hurricane Irma, which didnt directly hit Puerto Rico.Forecasters say Tropical Storm Maria is in an environment that is conducive to strengthening over the next couple of days. Multiple islands are under a hurricane watch, including St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis.Tropical Depression Lee diminished from a Tropical Storm Sunday, the National Hurricane Center said.It remains in the Atlantic, 875 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands moving at 8 mph, forecasters said, with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph.miwilliams@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5022.2017 The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.)Visit The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.) at www.OrlandoSentinel.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
U.S.

Chicago-Columbus-Pittsburgh, 488 miles

Dallas-Laredo-Houston, 640 miles

Cheyenne-Denver-Pueblo, 360 miles

Miami-Orlando, 257 miles

India

Bengaluru-Chennai, 208 miles

Mumbai-Chennai, 685 miles

United Kingdom

Edinburgh-London, 414 miles

Glasgow-Liverpool, 339 miles

Mexico

Mexico City-Guadalajara, 330 miles

Canada

Toronto-Montreal, 400 miles

(TNS) -- Dallas has one more mode of futuristic transportation to dream about, along with bullet trains and flying Uber cars . It's made the short list for Hyperloop One, a Los Angeles-based company that wants to replace long flights and road trips with a quick ride through a low-pressure tube.The Texas route is one of 10 routes that the company is considering, according to a Thursday news release. It would cover about 640 miles and connect Dallas-Fort Worth to Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Laredo.Hyperloop One launched a contest in May 2016, asking individuals, universities, companies and governments to submit proposals for routes in their region. The company narrowed the field from hundreds of applicants to 10 teams. It will now start researching the commercial viability of the possible routes and look at factors like economic benefits, regulatory environments and passenger demand, according to the news release.If the Texas route ever becomes reality, it'd take just 19 minutes to travel from Dallas to Austin, according to Hyperloop One.The Texas proposal -- dubbed the Texas Triangle -- was submitted by engineering firm AECOM with support from the North Central Texas Council of Governments, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Austin Capital Metro, City of Dallas, Houston-Galveston Area Council, the Port Authority of Houston, Public Works and the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce.Hyperloop One is building a new transportation technology that would use levitating pods to shuttle people as fast as 700 mph through low-pressure tubes by propulsion of electric motors. And the company says they'd like to keep the price as low as a bus ticket.The company was founded in 2014. Since then, it's built a track near Las Vegas and started testing. Company leaders say they'd like to have three systems in operation by 2021.Steven Duong, a senior urban designer in AECOM's Dallas office who is leading the Hyperloop Texas team, told the Dallas Morning News in April that Texas would be ideal for the project because the state's large number of commuters, relatively flat landscape and problems with traffic congestion. He said the Hyperloop would do for transportation what broadband did for communications.Hyperloop One is one of many companies trying to to turn the concept into reality. The idea of the Hyperloop has been championed by tech billionaire Elon Musk, known for his focus on futuristic innovations like Tesla's electric cars and SpaceX's private space travel.Uber is working on its own imaginative transportation approach. It's chosen Dallas and Dubai to test its concept for ride-hailing through the skies. But just like the Hyperloop, it may be awhile before we see those flying taxis or lightening-fast travel tubes.Here's the list of the 10 contenders:Source: Hyperloop One
(TNS) -- OAKHAM - A 'slinky' of plastic tubes sprawled across the dirt floor of the greenhouse under construction at Dismas Family Farm, part of the radiant floor heating system that will keep organic vegetables toasty as they grow during the winter. But while a radiant-floor-heated greenhouse may be unique enough, what's really impressive is what the greenhouse will be fueled by - a compost pile."I'm talking rot," said the heating system's engineer Thaddeus Szkoda, president of Freedom Energy Systems, laughing. "Goodbye to oil technology, hello to compost."The greenhouse is a zero net energy building, getting all of its energy needs from renewable sources on site.It is also an example for the future of Central Massachusetts, as local government, business, nonprofit, and environmental leaders recently gathered at the farm to discuss how the region can move to 100-percent renewable energy."There's a lot we can do in the local community to move in this direction and accelerate our progress," said Ben Hellerstein, state director for the Environment Massachusetts Research and Policy Center. "The sooner we can get a clear goal and achieve that and a framework to get there, the better."For Dismas Family Farm, the decision to go green was a financial one, said the farm's executive director, Dave McMahon. The farm - which is a rehabilitative and vocational prisoner reentry program - faced funding challenges in 2009 following the Great Recession and started working with state programs and initiatives to lower utility costs through renewable energy. Today, the farm provides all of its electricity with solar energy."The funding we saved from utilities we can use for our programs and staffing," explained Mr. McMahon.And leaders at the forum said that Dismas Family Farm's energy success can be replicated across the region, benefiting local health and the climate as fossil fuels are abandoned.Ellen Watts, president and co-founder of Architerra architecture firm, said that zero net energy buildings can be all sizes and cost effective. Tony Dutzik, a senior policy analyst with the public interest think tank Frontier Group, noted that renewable energy resources are now widely available, and "barriers are falling" for renewable energy. For instance, the cost of solar is decreasing, battery storage capability is increasing, and cars are more efficient than ever before."We're moving in the right direction," Mr. Dutzik said.The question is how to get there.State Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton, has filed legislation to set a goal of 100 percent renewable energy economy-wide by 2050 and 100 percent renewable electricity by 2035."It's very easy for us to say Massachusetts is a leader" in clean energy, Mr. Eldridge said. "But there's so much more to be done, and we can't rest on our laurels."Ms. Watts recommended that leaders encourage businesses and large institutions to "lead by example," and mandate zero net energy buildings or at least make new buildings ready for solar installations.Mr. Dutzik said there was no one way to achieve a 100 percent renewable energy future, mentioning that the goal required innovations and expansions in the technology, energy transmission, and transportation sectors.But as attendees toured the farm admiring sheep, the greenhouse, and a solar array, Jeuji Diamondstone said she was optimistic that 100 percent renewable energy was a possibility."It's a possibility but it's contingent not just on the people here but the rest of the community," Ms. Diamondstone, a community organizer with Renewable Energy Worcester, said. "People have to understand the needs and the benefits and understand that we are all part of that solution. ... It was exciting to hear about all that is being done and know that there are so many purposeful people committed to moving us along."
(TNS) -- Alexa, forget my grocery list and morning traffic reports. Tell me about CPR.Alexa, Amazons voice-activated digital assistant for the home, has learned a new skill -- dispensing medical information about first aid from one of the best-known names in medicine, Minnesotas Mayo Clinic.The information is accessible by speaking to the Amazon device, which users might appreciate if theyre busy doing something with their hands, like putting aloe on a burn or examining someone who has stopped breathing.Users who enable the free Mayo Clinic First Aid program and then ask Alexa for information about CPR are told, multiple times, to call 911. The device also advises in its robotic-female voice to begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation for one minute and then call 911 if the person is unresponsive from suffocation. If the user asks for it, the device will go on to discuss specific techniques for doing CPR on an adult, child or baby.We provide health information in a print newsletter, digital newsletter, desktop web, mobile web, Mayo Clinic app. We view this voice interface, specifically the Amazon Alexa application, as basically a new channel to provide that information, said Jay Maxwell, a senior director in health information with the Mayo Clinic Global Business Solutions, which developed Mayo Clinic First Aid.Although the program includes a disclaimer that Mayo Clinic First Aid should not be used in a life-threatening medical emergency, instructions for CPR is one of the suggested topics in the programs description, along with tell me about spider bites and how to treat a cut.Online mega-retailer Amazon sells a variety of hands-free home assistant devices like the Echo and the Echo Dot that can listen to human voices and respond to commands like add eggs to the grocery list, check traffic or play streaming music. Alexa is a cloud-based system that responds directly to the user, similar to Apples Siri program.And just as apps can be downloaded at will for smartphones, Alexa-enabled devices can add new skills created by outside companies like the Pizza Hut program that can order a pie for delivery, or the U.S. Bank program that can securely check balances and recent credit card purchases.Amazon spokesman Daniel Gabis said Mayo developed its First Aid program using Amazons self-service Alexa Skills Kit, as other organizations have.Were excited that Mayo Clinic developed its health information skill for Alexa customers. Other developers such as WebMD have built skills for Alexa using our self-service Alexa Skills Kit, Gabis said via e-mail.The WebMD Alexa program, and similar ones like DexMD, include explicit disclaimers that the programs do not provide medical advice. Mayos First Aid program says it is for information purposes only and should not be used in an emergency medical situation or in place of professional medical advice. Rather, the Mayo program offers instructions for self care for dozens of everyday mishaps and other situations.Dr. Sandhya Pruthi, associate medical director of Mayo Clinic Global Business Solutions, said the content was adapted from entries in the medical library that Mayo already offers for free online. The information is updated in real time as medical evidence evolves.One of the biggest challenges was adapting the information from a format where users can move their eyes around a web page to find what they want, to one in which Alexa reads all the information aloud and users have to wait to hear what they want and think of deeper questions to ask.It has to be conversational. You cant just read a textbook, Pruthi said. I think its more understandable when its presented this way. ... The way that I talk to my patient today is the way that I would want this to come across on Amazon Alexa.Amazon is not paying Mayo for the content, and there are no ads in the free download program. Mayo already had a relationship with Amazon, through its 60-second audio news feed for medical stories called Mayo Clinic Flash Briefing, before the launch of the First Aid program.A spokeswoman in Mayos public relations office acknowledged that services like the First Aid program give a boost to Mayos brand awareness with the public, but she said the primary motivation was to continue to extend the not-for-profit Mayo Clinics health knowledge beyond its four walls.The voice-enabled experience is a new and growing global innovation, and may be the largest shift in how people interact with devices since the development of smartphones, Mayo spokeswoman Duska Anastasijevic wrote in an e-mail. Mayo Clinic is among the first health care organizations in the voice space, and will take what it learns to apply it toward other projects that provide trusted information or potentially address a market or consumer need.
McLaren will become a de-facto 'factory' team by 2019, according to team boss Eric Boullier.

Like many members of the struggling British outfit, Boullier admitted to feelings of relief in Singapore that the Honda divorce is now set in stone.

"It had become inevitable," the Frenchman told the Belgian broadcaster RTBF.

"After three difficult years, important decisions had to be made before it was too late. Now what we feel is relief but also sadness because we built a good working relationship with Honda even if there were no results," Boullier added.

Things are now looking better for 2018, with McLaren to use the same engine as the works Renault team and Red Bull and almost certainly also retain the services of Fernando Alonso.

Boullier said: "We have information from Renault that proves to us that their engine is competitive.

"Maybe it is a bit behind the Mercedes and the Ferrari but it has potential," he insisted.

"We have had meetings that show they are working on a reliability and performance package that will be more competitive next year.

"The other advantage of working with Renault is that we will have a say in engine design. In 2019 we will have a solution that is almost 'factory', so it's an advantage over a customer engine," Boullier revealed.

(GMM)
Aston Martin looks set to become Red Bull's title sponsor next year.

Although the energy drink owned team uses a Tag-Heuer branded Renault engine, Red Bull is also sponsored by the British luxury carmaker Aston Martin.

And in Singapore, one prominent attendee was Andy Palmer, the Aston chief executive.

Earlier in the weekend, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner was asked about Porsche entering F1 but insisted "We have an existing relationship with an OEM that don't make F1 engines".

He was clearly referring to Aston Martin.

When asked if Aston might build an engine for Red Bull, Horner answered: "They can't do that now, so it would have to be for 2021."

Palmer confirmed: "We are studying the 2021 engine. If we get a reasonable regulation that brings down the cost, Aston would like to be involved."

In the meantime, Aston Martin looks set to ramp up its involvement by becoming the Red Bull title sponsor in 2018.

"Our partnership with Aston Martin continues to thrive and there will be further developments in this regard," said Horner.

Again, Palmer confirmed: "We'd like to be involved a little more next season and then join the dots."

(GMM)
Carlos Sainz left Singapore on Monday wondering if it had been his last race for Toro Rosso.

The Spaniard made his F1 debut for the junior Red Bull team in 2015, but will be loaned to the works Renault team next year.

So when Sainz crossed the line in a career-best fourth place on Sunday, Toro Rosso boss Franz Tost told him on the radio: "Stay with us. We don't (want to) let you go."

Tost may also have been alluding to persistent speculation that Sainz, 23, could replace Renault's Jolyon Palmer as soon as the next race in Malaysia.

Reports indicate Palmer is weighing up a contract buy-out offer of between $3 and $7 million.

So when asked if Singapore was a fitting way to farewell Toro Rosso, Sainz answered: "Yes, but I'm still not thinking this was my last race.

"I told my team and my mechanics beforehand to not worry about what happens next. Let's just do a perfect weekend."

(GMM)
Three Midwest power companies welcomed a new solar power farm to the town of Hallie on Monday.

Eau Claire Energy Cooperative, La Crosse-based Dairyland Power Cooperative and SoCore Energy of Chicago dedicated the Lafayette Solar Project. It is a swath of solar panels on County OO surrounded by farmland and forest, and is part of a statewide effort from the three companies to introduce more solar farms to Wisconsin. We have 11 sites, all the way from southern Wisconsin to Conrath and Menomonie, said Jonathan Roberts, project manager for SoCore.

Dairyland Power Cooperative originally proposed enough Wisconsin facilities to reap 25 total megawatts of solar power. There are currently enough farms operating to get 19.5 megawatts.

The Lafayette project isnt a community effort, but the area may be able to harvest the benefits, said Lynn Thompson, president of Eau Claire Energy Cooperative. Fifteen such solar farms in Wisconsin could provide power to over 3,000 households.

SoCore and Eau Claire Energy Cooperative initially applied for a building permit in Hallie in January 2016.

Thompson said as interest in solar power increases, the technology will become cheaper and more efficient. If you look at the last few years, the explosion of solar across not only Wisconsin, but across the country has been remarkable. Thats partially based on economics. As more and more panels are being manufactured, the economics make a lot more sense. You can get more production out of states in the Southwest, but we have 210 sunny days a year (in Wisconsin.)

Hallies solar farm will harvest as much sunlight as it can from those 210 sunny days, using single-axis trackers, which enable the panels themselves to tilt throughout the day as the sun rises in the east and sets to the west.

Roberts said the final plan for the Hallie site is to introduce a native pollinator mix to encourage a healthy environment. Well have prairie grass thats conducive to pollinator species, he said Monday.

Were looking at maybe five more (farms), perhaps in Minnesota or Iowa at this time, Thompson said. Stay tuned. You never know whats next.
Want to fly to beautiful San Diego, Calif.?

My wife and I did just that last Thursday morning, returning last night.

American Airlines offers direct flights from Charlotte.

But you can save a lot of money by starting your journey at Piedmont Triad International Airport.

No kidding.

Catch today's 12:46 hop on AA 5350 to Charlotte, and there board AA 540 to San Diego. Your round-trip fare is $580.

But if you simply take AA 540 from Charlotte to San Diego, the round-trip fare is $898.

Either way, you arrive in San Diego about 5 p.m. PDT today.

Something similar happened earlier this summer when my wife and I flew to Bermuda. It cost less for us to fly from Greensboro to Charlotte and then to Hamilton than it would have cost to fly directly from Charlotte.

The first time, I thought this was a fluke. The second time, I figured PTIA has made a deal with American Airlines to increase passenger traffic here. So I called Kevin Baker, PTIA's executive director.

Not so, he said this morning. But he was happy to hear it worked out so well for us.

"Is this a trend or a pattern? We'll have to see," he said.

Weird pricing is standard for airlines, and this has happened before  both to the benefit and detriment of PTIA.

For a while in the early 2000s, Baker recalled, the fare differential actually encouraged Charlotte-area travelers to drive to Greensboro, fly back to Charlotte and from there go on to their final destination. That makes sense if you want to get to San Diego today.

At other times, Greensboro-area travelers could save a lot by driving to Raleigh-Durham, Baker said.

The airport has little control; it can only urge airlines to price flights that make PTIA competitive.

But there's no special deal with American.

Travelers ought to be as savvy as my wife, who always checks out the best way to get from here to wherever. We only had a few days to plan the trip to San Diego, but she found the best deal right here.

This helped PTIA's passenger traffic and also earned the airport $32 for four days of long-term parking.

It's crazy that, in effect, American Airlines gave us a fare refund to take an additional flight. For us, it was crazy good.
GREENSBORO  GreenHill Center for North Carolina Art has been awarded $5,000 from the PNC Foundation to expand the reach of its free Family Night.

GreenHill's galleries are located in the downtown Greensboro Cultural Center, 200 N. Davie St. It houses four spaces: ArtQuest Studios, The Gallery, InFocus Gallery and The Shop.

To learn more, visit www.greenhillnc.org or call 336-333-7460.

It offers Family Night from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, when families can participate in all of the activities provided during GreenHills open studio hours free of charge.

In addition to time in the ArtQuest Studios, GreenHill will expand Family Night into The Gallery. Starting Nov. 1, GreenHill will provide programming in The Gallery once a month during the school year aimed toward families with preschool and elementary age children.

The program will be based on GreenHills popular Masterpiece Friday program, offering a lollipop tour of the artwork in the current exhibition, story time and gallery games such as a scavenger hunt.

"The goal for Family Night in The Gallery is to create an accessible program that encourages families to not only make art together, but to look at art together as well," Jaymie Meyer, GreenHill education director, said in a news release.

Family Night participants also can connect with GreenHill through its Pop-up Residency program, a 10-day artist residency programs in the NC Art Studio throughout the year.

Selected North Carolina artists, including musicians, creative writers, poets, performers, and visual artists, will create new work in collaboration with children and their families and showcase their final product during First Friday programming. Families will be able to participate for free.

GreenHill has offered Family Night since 1996. Comprised of four interactive studios, the ArtQuest studios are active, social spaces where families can make art and share ideas, create one-of-a-kind paintings or work with clay or new and unexpected materials at the hands-on exploration table.

Goals of the family engagement program are twofold, said Laura Way, GreenHill executive director: To create an awareness of GreenHill educational programs for under-served families and to promote sustained participation in the visual arts.
Sept. 18, 1975

Newspaper heiress and wanted fugitive Patty Hearst was captured in San Francisco and arrested for armed robbery. On Feb. 4, 1974, Hearst, 19, daughter of newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearts, had been taken from her apartment in Berkeley, Calif., by three armed people. She was seen struggling and blindfolded as she was placed in the trunk of a car. The Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a small U.S. leftist group, announced that it was holding Hearst as a prisoner of war and demanded Hearsts family give $70 in foodstuffs to every needy person from Santa Rosa to Los Angeles. Randolph Hearst gave away some $2 million worth of food, but the SLA asked for $4 million more. In April Patty Hearst declared in a tape sent to the authorities that she was joining the SLA and later was filmed participating in armed robberies. Finally, on Sept. 18, 1975, Tania, as she called herself, was captured in San Francisco. She claimed that she had been brainwashed, but she was convicted on March 20, 1976, and sentenced to 7 years in prison. Her sentence was commuted by President Jimmy Carter, and she was released in February 1979. In 2001, she received a full pardon from President Bill Clinton.
Gov. Scott Walker has shifted the state's focus from job creation to workforce development, but critics say the focus is still on the needs of businesses, rather than of workers.
Make the American Dream Mexicos again, AB InBev pleads. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

President Trump wont need that big, beautiful wall if everyone in Mexico just follows Anheuser-Busch InBevs brilliant new business plan. The worlds largest beer company has released an ad urging Mexicans who plan to work illegally in the U.S. to instead consider opening a store that sells its beers. Its part of a push to open more locations of Modelorama, a small convenience chain in Mexico thats run by Grupo Modelo, the AB InBevowned brewery that makes Modelo, Corona, and Pacifico, and controls 63 percent of Mexicos beer market.

The ad strikes a very serious tone. Its format is a four-minute-long mini doc shot by Mexican filmmaker Juan Carlos Rulfo. The lack of economic opportunities in Mexico, he explains as dramatic music plays, is why a lot of people emigrate from Mexico and abandon their families to go in search of the American Dream. News stories flash on the screen about how the cost to smuggle yourself into America has now jumped by 130 percent. Enter Grupo Modelo, apparently: It might now set you back between $3,000 and $20,000 to cross the U.S. border illegally, but it takes just $5,000 to start your own Modelorama store, and theres no fence-hopping.

It isnt just a convenience store that sells alcohol, the video says  its more like having a money tree, since the beer moves on its own. (If it was up to me, one happy Modelorama owner adds, I would already have like five!) Right now, Grupo Modelo operates about 8,000 of these across Mexico, and an executive tells Ad Age they open another two or three every day  900 so far this year alone. Modeloramas business model, he explains, just requires a little upfront investment; the company then gives you the space, outfits it with refrigerators, and delivers the beers youll be selling. Theyll even let about 10 percent of the stores products be things A-B InBev doesnt make, like Cokes or chips.

As it turns out, the U.S. government wont let AB InBev sell Corona or Grupo Modelos other beers in America for antitrust reasons (those brews are owned by a different megacompany, Constellation Brands). AB InBevs Mexican portfolio, however, includes all of Grupo Modelos beers, plus Budweiser, Bud Light, Stella Artois, and others.
The feeding process isnt pleasant. Photo: Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The futures not looking great for foie gras in California. Fans of the controversial delicacy got dealt a new blow on Friday, when the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals said it was okay to reinstate a ban, first passed in 2004, that a lower court first overturned in 2015. After about a decades worth of legal drama, this decision marks the biggest victory yet for animal-rights groups that argue that gavage (the force-feeding process done by tube) is cruel. PETA, which is known to refer to the fatty liver dish as torture on toast, applauded Fridays ruling by saying that the Champagne corks are popping, and a Humane Society spokesperson told the L.A. Times that anytime you can get Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former pope and the Israeli Supreme Court to agree, thats pretty close to a consensus.

Unless youre canvassing the kitchens of Californias fine-dining scene: A lot of chefs werent thrilled by the ruling, and many have issued pro-foie statements that sound like what NRA members always say about their guns  i.e., if you want it, youll have to pry it from their cold, dead hands. Nobody needs to take foie gras off the menu tonight and we certainly arent, said Ken Frank, chef of Napa Valleys La Toque, a restaurant thats been sued before for its foie gras. What will happen is, foie gras sales are going to go back through the roof now, Frank said. L.A. chef and Food Network regular Eric Greenspan called the ruling just crazy, and the fight misplaced. (Lets ban assault rifles before we ban foie gras if you want to talk about cruelty.) Neal Fraser, chef at another popular L.A. restaurant, Redbird, felt the crusade was similarly dumb: Dont we have anything better to do than attack foie gras? he told the Times. Like ending childhood hunger, cleaning up Houston, or getting a step up on homelessness.

Marcus Henley, the manager of Hudson Valley Foie Gras who is a plaintiff in the original case, says that unfortunately for opponents, the sale of foie gras cant be banned until his group exhausts all their appeals anyway. It could take weeks, if not months to get a ruling from the full Ninth Circuit (Fridays decision was only by a three-judge panel), and if that goes poorly, too, theres always the Supreme Court.
These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales.
Gettys Commemorate Queen's OBE Award and Announce Plans for Live Simulcast Worship Conference Contact: Gareth Russell, +44-7967-468008, gareth@jerseyroad.co.uk



LONDON, Sept. 18, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Keith & Kristyn Getty were this week honored at the Houses of Parliament in London, England to mark Keith's Officer of the British Empire (OBE) award in June by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The evening, hosted at St Mary's Undercroft set beneath the Palace of Westminster celebrated the Getty's contribution to music and hymn writing through their re-popularizing of hymns. The event marked the first occasion in which an OBE has been given to an individual who is actively involved in the world of contemporary church music.



Beyond just their work as hymn writers, Keith Getty and his wife Kristyn have spent the last decade as ambassadors of the genre. An estimated 40-50 million people are singing Getty hymns in church services each year, include the eponymous In Christ Alone (co-written with Stuart Townend) which has become of the one most-frequently-sung in US churches over the last decade.



Getty says, "Obviously to receive the OBE has been a great honor, but to sing hymns in as intimate and prestigious a venue as the chapel of St. Mary's Undercroft is one of those moments neither Kristyn, nor I will ever forget."



The event also marked the "pre-launch" of Sing!, a book inspired in part by the reformer Martin Luther in this the 500th anniversary of The reformation, made all the more poignant as the Houses of Parliament was the seat of the reformation.



Alongside the OBE celebrations, the Getty's announced that their upcoming Getty Music Worship Conference: Sing! will be global live simulcasted from September 18th - 20th. Audiences from the USA and around the world will have the opportunity to hear celebrated speakers including the Gettys, Alistair Begg, D.A. Carson, David Platt, Joni Eareckson Tada and over 50 other speakers and seminar leaders. Four thousand people will attend this sold-out conference in person from around the world, but live simulcast registration is now open and Getty is keen for the churches across America to join them.



Keith continues, "We would love for churches across the United States to register for the live simulcast and be equipped to release even greater potential through their worship."



The simulcast will include an exclusive concert at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN with special guests Stuart Townend, Ricky Skaggs and more.



To register for the Getty Music Worship Conference: Sing! live simulcast go to www.gettymusicworshipconference.com.

Share Tweet




Haiti - Security : A bus Dignite burned in Grande Riviere du Nord





In a note, the Political Bureau of Senator Dieudonne Luma Etienne deplores and denounces with all her might the burning of a bus Dignite by unidentified individuals in the commune of Grande Riviere du Nord.



"This odious act of vandalism targets the northern community in general and does not contribute to the development of the community, especially when considering the importance and usefulness of the institution Dignite in the school transportation system at the time the opening of classes.



The office is asking the judicial authorities to take all the necessary measures to render justice and reparation to the institution and to the entire Rivanordaise community, victims of this act of banditry."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Politics : Financing of Parliament, half-truth of Moise





Last week week, Youri Latortue Senate President announced the reconstruction of the Parliamentat the cost of about 3 billion Gourdes (+/- $ 48 million). The new parliamentary complex will consist of 3 buildings. A first of 10-storey for the offices of parliamentarians, the working and meeting rooms of the Standing Commissions and the offices of the administration. A second one will comprise three large hemicycles (Chamber of Deputies, Senate, and National Assembly), and finally the 3rd will include a four-storey closed parking for parliamentarians and visitors...



On Friday in his message to the Nation regarding the publication of the budget, President Moise wished to silence criticisms relating to the high budget of Parliament by stating that 50% of the 7.2 billion gourdes allocated to senators and deputies in the budget would be used for the reconstruction of Parliament adding "people have lied a lot to the population on this budget..." https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22135-haiti-flash-moise-asserts-his-authority-and-publishes-the-budget.html



However, in reality, it is stated in the budget that the 7.2 billion Gourdes of the Parliament are divided 50/50 between the Senate and the Lower House, ie 3.6 billion for each Chamber. For the Senate 2 billion are devoted to the functioning and an "investments" heading has an envelope of 1.5 billion which will be allocated to the reconstruction of the Parliament. As for the budget of the lower chamber, it is essentially devoted to functioning and does not include any heading "investments". This means that only 50% of the estimated costs of reconstruction of Parliament will come from Parliament's budget and not all as Moise said and the other 1.5 billion gourdes to complete the cost of the work, will have to come from other items in the State budget...



If Senator Latortue evokes an amount of about 3 billion Gourdes for the new parliamentary complex, Clement Belizaire, the Director of the Unit of Construction of Housing and Public Buildings (UCLBP) shows more reserved "We do not know yet how much will cost Parliament nor the firm that will carry out the work because adjustments have been requested," specifying that there will be no traditional call for tenders for the construction of the Haitian Parliament.



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





1,700 postulants for 50 jobs

On Sunday, more than 1,700 candidates of both gender from the 10 departments of the country and abroad took part in the second and final day of the competition in hopes of being recruited in one of the 50 position of "State administrators" https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-22136-haiti-politics-first-day-of-the-state-administrators-competition.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-22130-icihaiti-politics-competition-for-the-recruitment-of-state-administrators.html



Embassies affected by the strike

Due to the transport strike, please note that the Mexican Embassy will be closed to the public on Monday, September 18th. The Embassy of Canada will be open but with reduced staff, the US Embassy in Tabarre will also be open at 9:00 am but with limited staff, all visa appointments this Monday have been canceled.



Distribution of tillers, water pumps...

On Friday, "Food For The Poor" launched a partnership with the Civic Education Training Center for Community Assistance to Cooperatives, an association of growers in Leogane and helping more than 400 farmers by providing them with power tillers, water pumps and agricultural implements.



2,000 homes with solar energy

"As promised an individual solar energy system was distributed to the inhabitants of Sevre (Tiburon). 2,000 households in four communal sections of Tiburon have been provided with solar energy kits, under the "Kay Pam Klere" program, informed President Moise.



Diaspora meeting with Jovenel Moise

The Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti in New York is pleased to invite the Haitian community to a meeting with the President of the Republic His Excellency Jovenel Moise Thursday, September 21, 2017 from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm - Medgar Evers College - 1650 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22146-haiti-politics-president-moise-in-new-york.html



Registration to the "Ti manman cheri" program

More than 250 mothers have registered in the program "Ti manman cheri" at the national school of Madame Bageot in the commune of Petite Riviere de l'Artibonite.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By William Schwartz | Published on 2017/09/17

The bookish Woo-jin (played by Lee Sang-yeob) is ditched on his wedding day by the more traditionally pretty Seo-yeon (played by Kim So-eun). The rest of the story is about Woo-jin trying to find out what happened to her. Bear in mind that since Woo-jin is not a private detective, and also has a day job, his efforts are mainly limited to making plaintive radio broadcasts for her return. Oh, and there's also that weird moment where he meets another woman (played by Lim Hwa-young) who claims to be the real (?) Seo-yeon.

Advertisement

The most important thing to understand about "Drama Special - You're Closer Than I Think" is that it not a potboiler mystery. You could certainly be forgiven for thinking so, looking at the individual shot composition. Director Choi Yoon-seok-II devotes a lot of artistically styled cinematography. There's dutch angles, thematic empty space, the classic sinking into the bathtub spot, aerial shots, and even a suitably distinctive lingering shot on a stylized restaurant menu.

There's even the requisite ominous mood setting, of how Seo-yeon's disappearance can be explained by a suitably horrible secret. Without getting into spoilers, I'll admit that I was somewhat underwhelmed by said horrible secret, mostly because I was expecting something in the dramatic potboiler mystery vein. In full perspective, though, it's pretty clear that "Drama Special - You're Closer Than I Think" was probably originally storyboarded as a standard melodrama.

Because I mean, really, everyone is crying all the time. Which again, looking back at the character designs, is pretty easy to parse. Woo-jin bonds with Seo-yeon over literature, after all, and The Little Prince in particular. Fundamentally all the characters arcs here revolve around loneliness. That's why Woo-jin's alleged best friend Do-yeong (played by Kwak Hee-sung) doesn't do much aside from provide opportunities for exposition.

Although really, "Drama Special - You're Closer Than I Think" is barely even Woo-jin's story at all. Everything revolves around Seo-yeon. Which is frustrating, because on balance we get more ambiguous flashbacks foreshadowing Seo-yeon's running off on her wedding day than we do of Woo-jin and Soo-yeon ever actually being happy together. Photographer Soon-taek (played by Dong Ha) likewise gets far less exposition than we would expect, considering the production team goes to the trouble of giving him a happy ending. Soon-taek's photography is more interesting than Soon-taek himself- although Dong Ha, like all the other actors in "Drama Special - You're Closer Than I Think", is at least pretty good at subtly emoting.

Review by William Schwartz

"Drama Special - You're Closer Than I Think" is directed by Choi Yoon-seok-II, written by Choi Mi-kyeong and features Lee Sang-yeob, Kim So-eun, Dong Ha and Lim Hwa-young.
By Vasia Orion | Published on 2017/09/17

The closer Sang-mi and her saviors get to the truth and to a semblance of victory the more alert out villains become and this creates some situations which may soon end lives. Sang-hwan finally gets somewhere with his pleas for some official support and Guseonwon's sordid past starts surfacing once more. There are things "Save Me" has not delivered, but ample suspense is not one of them.

Advertisement

Sang-mi's (Seo Yea-ji) allies are in for a world of hurt, as seeing the finish line makes them careless. Jeong-hoon's (Lee David) slip up could cost him his life, but it is not out of character for our naive savior. Dong-cheol's (Woo Do-hwan) curiosity creates suspense and it fits his impulsive nature. While So-rin's (Jeon Yeo-been) oversight is big, I can see why our reporter would start slipping up with distractions around her.

Episode thirteen sees a lot of forward movement with certain characters and thankfully not all of it is dangerous or at least yet. I want to feel hope from Detective Lee (Jang Hyuk-jin), but he has met no opposition to his investigation yet. He has already been established as someone who will drop his duty on demand and I feel that there is a reason why the series has made that so very clear. My hope is that he will be too scared to bury a case he now realizes many outsiders know about.

It is officer Woo's (Kim Kwang-kyu) corruption which carries more weight, however and that is because of Jeong-hoon. Bribery makes him an accomplice, rather than just a lazy worker. However, it is his function in the series that I find most regretful. "Save Me" has sadly not made good use of several supporting characters. Dae-sik's (Lee Jae-joon) outburst is a good indicator of their use as mere plot devices. From Joon-goo (Ko Jun) to the lovely "noona" at the tavern (Choi Hyeok-joo), it is a shame seeing potentially fun characters go underutilized.

Even so, I can handle this disappointment when it comes to the world of Muji if we get through things with all major loose ends tied. If the aforementioned characters are given impactful scenes during their obvious one function in this story during the upcoming episodes, it will be a comfort. After all, the writer is a rookie and sometimes one's vision can shrink a lot from conception to delivery.

As far as predictions on character fates go, I firmly believe Dong-cheol would die to save someone or everyone, although Jeong-hoon could be used as a narrative sacrifice to spare our more developed hero. So-rin's fate is looking mighty grim as well. Whatever sacrifices happen, I look forward to the moment when Baek Jeong-gi (Cho Seong-ha) discovers how flammable he really is. I am counting on you, "Save Me".

"Save Me" is directed by Kim Seong-soo, written by Jeong Sin-gyoo and Jeong I-do-I and features Ok Taecyeon, Seo Yea-ji, Cho Seong-ha and Woo Do-hwan.

Written by: Orion from 'Orion's Ramblings'

Note: Due to licensing, videos may not be available in your country
Published on 2017/09/17 | Source

"Flying Trapeze" fell through. Sources say the drama isn't going to happen due to internal reasons. It was supposed to be a air after Lee Jong-suk and Bae Suzy's "While You Were Sleeping", which begins airing the 27th of September. He's searching for a new role now.

Advertisement

"Flying Trapeze" is an original novel by a Japanese writer. It was made into an animation that was broadcast on Fuji TV and a j-dorama starring many famous Japanese actors. The story revolves around about a mid-level boss of a gang that can't stand to look at sharp objects, a trapeze artist that constantly falls from his trapeze, a young doctor who fights the urge to rip off the wig of his hospital director, and a freak nurse who wears shorts throughout the year.
The report identifies eight wage suppression strategies and models the impact on long-run superannuation contributions and retirement incomes.

It estimates that for a 40-year-old worker experiencing one of the simulated wage-suppressing measures, superannuation balances would be cut by between $30,000 and $270,000 by the time they retire.



It references high-profile cases of employers suppressing wages, including the cancelling of enterprise agreements by Streets Ice Cream, Griffin Coal, Aurizon and Murdoch University, and wage theft scandals at Dominos, 7-Eleven and Caltex.



The report argued that the best superannuation investments are in companies that are growing the economy, investing in people and thinking for the longer term.



It referenced research from Macquarie Bank that showed employee-friendly companies outperformed hostile employers by 6.6% annually.



The reports major findings include:



 Around three million people or a quarter of the workforce have experienced some form of wage suppression and will stand to lose out in their retirement savings because of lower superannuation payments compounded over time

 There will be a black hole of up to $37 billion (in real 2017 dollars) for the government through lost taxes on lower superannuation contributions and the consequent higher age pension payouts.

 In the worst cases, where employers cancel enterprise agreements and force employees onto the minimum award, superannuation savings can be reduced by as much as $270,000 by the time an individual retires.

 In cases where employees are illegally underpaid, retirement savings can be reduced by over $50,000.

 Where enterprise agreements allow for below-award payments, retirement savings can suffer by over $40,000.

 When employers enforce even a temporary wage freeze, retirement savings can be reduced by over $30,000 over an individuals retirement period.



Transport Workers Union national secretary, Tony Sheldon, said slashed wages are affecting a quarter of the workforce  and this impacts on people day to day and also affects their retirement.



The Superannuation Investment Acts sole purpose test is clear on the obligations of super funds: for the 'provision of benefits on or after a members retirement," said Sheldon.



"The Federal Government is standing by and allowing this to happen, even supporting companies which rip their workers off.



The best superannuation investments are in companies that are growing our economy, investing in people and thinking for the longer term. Research by Macquarie Bank shows that employee-friendly companies outperform hostile employers by 6.6% annually.



The report was conducted by the Centre for Future Work at the Australia Institute and commissioned by the TWU.



HRD contacted the minister for employments office for comment.




PLANS for 30 homes off Kennylands Road, in Sonning Common, have been rejected by South Oxfordshire District Council

Scores of villagers protested against the application by T A Fisher, of Theale, at a planning committee meeting last week

It was recommended to be approved by planning officers but, in the end, councillors voted against it despite some members being in favour.

They said they saw no planning reasons to refuse the application and asked it was approved but this was voted down.

Members later agreed to reject the application with six members voting in favour and three against with chairman Councillor Toby Newman abstaining.

The 1.5-hectare site is earmarked for 22 homes in the villages neighbourhood plan, which passed referendum last year.

Councillor Barrie Greenwood, chairman of the plans working party, said the group was pleased with the outcome.

Speaking after the meeting, he said: We were relieved that the application was eventually turned down by councillors.

The decision was going to be deferred but the councillors did not like that so they voted for refusal.

The planning officers will be left to put together the strongest possible refusal with reasons for rejection.

We feel there are problems with sustainability and problems with spatial distribution.

 Althought T A Fisher wanted a higher number the maximum we were not prepared to go above a we did not consider it sensible. It would have been a 36 per cent increase over the allocated numbers.

Planning officer Paul Lucas had recommended the application to be approved.

He said the development would not harm the AONB, not cause highway safety problems and would not harm the residential amenity of those living nearby.

Speaking at the meeting in Didcot last week, Councillor Greenwood said the neighbourhood plan was originally worded to allocate up to 22 homes on the site but the district council had advised this should be removed and final numbers agreed at planning permission stage.

The working group agreed but now believes that, in fact, it had the right to keep that wording and regrets taking it out as it didnt realise T A Fisher would push for an increase.

He said: If approved, it will seriously undermine our neighbourhood plan and set a precedent for made and emerging plans throughout South Oxfordshire.

After long and detailed consultations with T A Fisher we reluctantly agreed this site would be included in the plan as a response to the SHMA in 2014.

We settled on a figure of 22 homes which reflects the sensitivity of the site because of its proximity to the AONB and its possible impact on neighbours.

We didnt know about our legal right to retain the wording on our policy for that site and agreeing to remove it has rebounded badly on us. It has also opened the door for similar increases on other sites in our plan.

This is a dense and very poorly-designed development in such a sensitive area and far too many aspects have been left to the reserve matters stage. It shouldnt be an outline application  all matters should be under discussion tonight.

Rejection would send a strong message to the developers that they should work with the parish council to develop something appropriate. An increase of eight homes may not sound much but its huge in the context of this site and there is a principle at stake.

Paul Mullin, a resident of Kennylands Road, said: The need for new, sustainable housing in our community is accepted on appropriate sites. However, the planned density on this site is unacceptable.

The developer has shown little regard for creating a balanced and attractive layout and should stick to the original allocation.

Katherine Miles, representing T A FIsher, said: Whilst the neighbourhood plan did initially seek to restrict the number of dwellings, this was found to be contrary to the advice of the district council.

The wording was removed before publication because it was seen as premature and unduly restrictive with no substantial evidence against it.

This proposal strikes the right balance between making the most effective possible use of the site while respecting the sensitivity of the area and will not harm the landscape.

Councillor Will Hall, one of Sonning Commons district councillors, said: This committee should be upholding the principle of the democratic exercise that is producing a neighbourhood plan. Additionally, the site is very close to the AONB so it needs to be treated as a special instance.

Councillor Sue Lawson proposed approval, saying she had reservations but couldnt see a valid planning reason for refusal. She was seconded by Councillor Ian White, who shared his view and was profoundly uneasy about the idea.

However, the motion was voted down and Councillor Lorraine Hillier then proposed refusal, seconded by Councillor Richard Pullen.

The committee was going to defer the decision as members couldnt agree on valid reasons for refusal.

However, it decided to vote for refusal and let Councillor Toby Newman, the chairman, confer with officers on the matter.

They will now work together to present the strongest possible case for refusal of the application.

The result marks a second victory for the parish council in defending the Sonning Common neighbourhood development plan.

In Februrary more than 100 residents of the village attended a meeting where Gallagher Estates had an application for 95 homes refused.

The company had applied to build on land off Kennylands Road, which is earmarked for just 26 in the villages neighbourhood plan, which outlines sites for 200 homes across the village.

It was unanimously rejected due to impact on the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and affect on traffic and amenities.

Cllr Greenwood added: We feel this is a vindication of our plan and it was a victory for the democratic process.

The majority of councillors felt our plan should be followed.

ENDS
CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans for 245 new homes on the outskirts of Emmer Green were refused permission.

Gladman Homes wanted to build on three fields between Peppard Road and Kiln Road, saying the development would be a logical extension to Emmer Green.

But South Oxfordshire District Councils planning committee refused consent, saying the land in Eye and Dunsden parish wasnt earmarked for housing in the councils local plan and the scheme would detract from its rural setting.

The decision went against the advice of planning officers, who said objectors concerns could be offset by imposing planning conditions on the developer.

Dozens of protesters attended the committees meeting at Didcot civic hall on Wednesday last week.

Some carried placards depicting Gladman both as a shark and as the computer game character Pac-Man gobbling up the countryside. Others held home-made banners and flags urging the committee to reject the application.

Opponents, including more than 300 residents, seven parish councils and two MPs, said the development would be too far from shops and other services so the residents would be isolated. It would also place intolerable pressure on public services and surrounding roads.

Gladman argued that the district council had failed to secure enough land to meet the next three years housing demand, rendering its local plan invalid.

Planning director Diana Richardson told the committee that the development would make a significant contribution towards the councils housing supply.

She said full and thorough consideration had been given to the potential impact of the scheme.

The nearest services and facilities were less than a mile away and so within walking distance and a new bus stop could be installed so that residents could get to Sonning Common, Emmer Green and Reading town centre.

Mrs Richardson said she was aware of the concerns about the capacity of local roads, surgeries and schools but any necessary mitigation would be funded through statutory contributions.

One protestor stormed out of the meeting, claiming the developers argument was a load of nonsense, and received loud applause.

David Woodward, chairman of Eye and Dunsden Parish Council, said he didnt underestimate the seriousness of the housing land shortage in South Oxfordshire but it was critical that this development was not allowed.

Approving this will blow apart the spatial strategy underpinning your own adopted plan and the new one which is emerging as other sites will come tumbling forward, he said.

This area has never been planned for growth and with good reason as it is not convenient for services  where is the social cohesion? Walking to school or the shops in either Sonning Common or Emmer Green will be impossible and doctors surgeries will not be able to cope.

You have a stark choice: either kow-tow to the greed of the developers and allow Reading to burst into our beautiful countryside or opt for sane and logical planning.

Iain Pearson, a member of Kidmore End Parish Council, said: We arent here because this is a good idea but because the district council has made a hash of its housing supply numbers and is vulnerable.

This site wasnt in any neighbourhood plan and no responsible parish would consider including it.

Will Hall, district councillor for Sonning Common ward, said: We arent just talking about a scrappy piece of land. This is high-quality, stunning countryside with village characteristics which couldnt be further from the way it has been characterised by the applicant.

The shops at Emmer Green arent anywhere near the development. Its bonkers to suggest that and I should know as I dont drive and must walk or take the bus everywhere within my parishes.

It gets on my nerves when people say its housing for young people because that doesnt have to clash with the need to protect the countryside. You can have both, you just have to build housing on appropriate sites.

Seven of the nine committee members voted to refuse permission, including Henley councillors Lorraine Hillier and Joan Bland.

Councillor Hillier said: The general design of this proposal is good but its totally in the wrong place and we should be looking at brownfield land first. You can see the huge strength of feeling in this room and we have to put our residents first.

After the meeting, Cllr Woodward said: Were delighted with the outcome. A large group of people has been working very hard on this for more than a year and its definitely the right result based on the evidence we were able to provide.

However, we know theres very likely to be an appeal and we have to prepare for that even bigger battle. Were already getting emails suggesting how we might go about that but I do hope we get a bit of a break first.

Im very glad that large numbers of people showed up to voice their concerns. It was a real display of people power and shows you can get the result you want.

The decision was also welcomed by Henley MP John Howell and Reading East MP Matt Rodda, neither of whom attended the meeting but had expressed their concerns.

Mr Howell said: This would have had a serious impact and forever changed the landscape of the South Oxfordshire countryside by urbanising what is currently a rural site.

Mr Rodda said: This decision preserves the greenfield area which forms part of the edge of Reading. Had it been permitted, the future development of the town could have been altered for good, which would have led to more suburban sprawl and stopped regeneration.

The development would have included a mix of detached, semi-detached and terraced homes, of which up to 40 per cent would be affordable, with a main entrance off Peppard Road, a smaller access off Kiln Road and a footpath entrance off Marchwood Avenue.

The objectors also included Sonning Common health centre, the Oxfordshire NHS Clinical Commissioning Group and Oxfordshire County Councils education officers.

Gladman declined to comment.
PLANS to turn a former antiques shop in Wargrave into four homes have been backed by parish councillors.

Wargrave Antiques in High Street closed last year when owner John Connell retired due to ill-health.

After failing to sell the property as a business premises, his family now want to convert it into flats.

They say there was no interest in the shop, despite them lowering the price.

They have applied to Wokingham Borough Council for change of use permission, saying there is more demand for residential property in Wargrave than retail space.

The building would be extended at the back to provide three one-bedroom flats and a one-bedroom studio. The shop facade would be retained.

Neighbours have raised concerns about being overlooked from the flats and the lack of parking in High Street.

They also say the residents of the flats could be disturbed by nearby businesses, including a dentist and an upholstery shop.

Parish councillors said they had no problems with the application as Mr Connells family had tried to sell the business before making the application. Councillor Michael Etwell said: Its good to see a proposal to tidy it up and I can understand why attempts to sell the property proved difficult.

Councillors also supported plans for a new five-bedroom home in High Street.

Martin Marston wants to demolish Silvaplana to create a two-storey house with a rear basement which would be similar in size to nearby properties including the neighbouring Wargrave Hall.

He says the existing house dates back to the Sixties and has no historic or other interest.

Councillor Marion Pope said: The site definitely needs something done. This design is more in keeping with the homes in the village than whats there at the moment. Councillor Philip Davies said: Im not sure about the size as it is an extremely large building. It is, however, a large plot.

Meanwhile, a gypsy family have appealed after their plans for a mini-traveller site near Wargrave were refused.

James Smith applied for retrospective permission for a plot of land in Wargrave Road, near the A4, where he already keeps a stationary caravan.

The land was historically used as a paddock but Mr Smith wanted his Romany gypsy family to be able to use it when not travelling in their second touring caravan, which would also be parked at the site.

He said he wanted a stable place to live where the family could access healthcare and education for their children.

Residents opposed the application, saying land was intended to be used as a paddock and having a large caravan there could obscure views of traffic on a roundabout on Bath Road.

Wokingham Borough Council refused to grant planning permission, saying the development would harm the green belt and would cause unacceptable impacts on the character of the area.

The council also said it had already identified other land for use by travellers.

Enforcement action had begun to remove the family from the site before Mr Smith appealed.
ITS a plan so cunning you could stick a tail on it and call it a weasel.

South Hill Park in Bracknell has announced plans to resurrect Edmund Blackadder and chums with a stage adaptation that will run at the Ringmead venue from October 11 to 15.

Fans of the original TV series, which ran from 1983 to 1989, are sure to savour the ultra-sarcastic putdowns that were its stock in trade.

The production takes the form of a lecture given by leading historian, Professor Christopher Starkers, with an episode from each of the four series being woven into the action as he describes various periods of British history.

Tickets are 20.50 with concessions available. To book, call 01344 484123 or go to www.southhillpark.org.uk
An elderly thief who posed as an Irish Water worker so he could carry out a series of burglaries at businesses across Dublin city centre has been jailed for 16 months.

George Courtier (68) used the same method in each theft, pretending he was there to check the plumbing to get "free rein" of the premises.

He targeted cafes, hotels, shops and a health clinic before he was caught.

Dublin District Court heard Courtier was homeless and had problems with drugs after being introduced to them in his 60s.

Judge Bryan Smyth jailed him for almost a year-and-a-half after he pleaded guilty to a string of burglary charges.

Gda Des Rogers told the court of one incident at the Castle Hotel, on Gardiner Row, on January 1 last year.

Heroin

Courtier told staff he was from Irish Water and gained entry to an area where he stole an iPod and Samsung phone. The value was 381.

In all the burglaries, he was identified on CCTV footage and later arrested and charged.

Courtier is originally from Co Limerick and had a difficult childhood, his solicitor Aine Flynn said. He had been homeless for some time and came to drug addiction very late in life, having been introduced to heroin in his 60s.

Ms Flynn added that Courtier has two grown-up sons and is now entitled to a pension but is not in receipt of it yet.

"The modus operandi is generally that he goes into a premises, passes himself off as being from the water authority and gains access to a staff area and steals property and cash," she said. "There is never any confrontation."

The judge imposed a series of consecutive sentences totalling 16 months. He said he was taking account of time Courtier had already spent in custody.
A "protective" brother kicked a garda in the face when the officer apprehended his sister during a public disorder incident on a city centre street.

Patrick Whelan (22) did not realise who the uniformed off-icer was when he assaulted him, a court heard.

Jailing him for two months, Judge Bryan Smyth said he did not think "you can get too much lower" than kicking someone on the ground.

Whelan, of Greenfort Crescent, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty to assaulting and obstructing a garda.

Gda Ian Walsh told Dublin District Court he was trying to restrain a person during a public order incident at O'Connell Street Lower at 4am on September 25 last year.

Whelan approached him and pulled him from behind numerous times, preventing him from doing his duty.

Bruising

Seconds later, while Gda Walsh was on the ground restraining the person, Whelan approached from behind and kicked him in the face.

He suffered bruising to his cheek.

Walsh was very intoxicated at the time, his barrister said.

He thought his sister was being apprehended by someone else, not realising it was a garda.

The court heard Whelan was now serving a prison sentence and hoped to become a mechanic when released.

He did not have any addiction issues but admitted he was "very inebriated" on the night and that clouded his judgment.

"Your judgment would have to be very clouded now to kick someone who is down on the ground in the face," Judge Smyth said.

Whelan had not been able to take in the information that it was a garda and he had "seen a side of himself that he's disgusted by", his lawyer said.

He said the accused has four sisters, none of whom were before the court.
Ryanair customers are demanding to know which flights will be cancelled in the coming six weeks.

The chaos comes after the airline admitted it "messed up" with its pilots' holidays.

As a result, Ryanair has been forced to cancel up to 60 flights a day to the end of next month.

The company is facing compensation payments to pass-engers, which could cost it millions.

The Commission for Aviation Regulation ruled yesterday that there were no exceptional circumstances behind the cancellations.

Among those cancelled yesterday were eight flights affecting Dublin, including outbound trips to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Nantes and Santander.

Inbound flights from the same destinations were also cancelled.

Confusion has reigned over the bookings that will be cancelled in the coming weeks, with the airline slow to let its customers know if their flights have been affected.

Ryanair marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said that all customers with bookings up to Wednesday have been informed.

"We've messed up in the planning of pilot holidays and we're working hard to fix that," he said.

However, there was a flurry of messages on Ryanair's social media pages yesterday, with customers desperate to know if their flights are going ahead.

Passengers have accused the airline of treating them "app- allingly" and demanded it publishes a full list of the flights to be cancelled over the next six weeks.

"This is an awful way to treat customers," Lee Bore wrote.

"You need to inform us now of every flight you are planning to cancel over the next six weeks and not give six hours, 12 hours or 24 hours notice. Leaving people stranded is not on."

Heartbroken

Edina Moisin wrote: "You should publish a list of all cancelled flights, not keeping people wondering if their flights will be cancelled or not."

Grandmother Karen Litton was due to fly from Knock to Stansted to meet her first granddaughter this week.

However, the estate agent has been left devastated after Ryanair cancelled her flight.

"I'm heartbroken. I was due to fly over to meet my new granddaughter Margot on Wednesday," she said.

"I was going to spend a week with my daughter to help out as her husband is starting back to work after his paternity leave. We're all so disappointed."

Ryanair has blamed the disruption on the company changing its holiday year - which currently runs from April to March - to run from January to December.

It said the shift meant it had to allocate annual leave to pilots this month and next.

The Herald asked Ryanair for details of flights that would be cancelled for the rest of this week, but there was no response to queries.

However, 12 flights have been cancelled from today, including to and from Amsterdam, Brussels, Manchester, London, Bristol and Barcelona.

Ryanair is facing increased competition in the low-fares aviation market from relative newcomer Norwegian Air.

The Scandinavian airline recently said it has signed up 140 former Ryanair pilots.
David Kelly, partner of tragic Danielle Carroll, with their children Carter and DJ

The baby son of tragic Danielle Carroll, who took her own life last month while on the housing list, looks at pictures of her and cries out for his mother.

Ms Carroll (27) died by suicide while in emergency accommodation.

She had been staying at the Leixlip House Hotel, in Co Kildare, since her rented accommodation was sold by its owner at the start of this year.

Ms Carroll had been offered one house, only to have the offer withdrawn later and another property suggested to her, which she felt wasn't suitable for bringing up two young boys.

Her eldest son DJ is seven, and Carter is just 20 months.

Now, her heartbroken partner, David Kelly, has called for help to secure a home for their two young boys.

"It's two weeks, I'm still getting up every morning and trying to push on, as hard as it is. It breaks my heart into a million pieces," he said.

Cage

"Carter is looking at these pictures every morning and he's crying 'mama, mama'.

"All I know is that I'm not made of steel. It's as if I don't exist. I feel as if I've been thrown in a cage. Danielle's gone, we're here on our own."

Mr Kelly said he wants answers about why the first offer of a house for Ms Carroll was withdrawn and revealed the boys still have no permanent place to stay.

"She won't rest in her grave until they have a home," Mr Kelly told the Sunday World.

"Four o'clock this morning I'm waking up, and all of a sudden I'm waking up to a song played at Danielle's funeral just out of the blue on my sister's phone.

"She said ever since she played that song, it just comes on out of the blue.

"I felt someone was touching me in the back and I thought 'what is going on inside this house?'. She's trying to push me on here," he added in an interview over the weekend, speaking from his mother's house in Jobstown.

He is struggling to create a normal life for the couple's son's but said he wasn't blaming anyone.

Emergency

"But they still have nothing for me. The only one making calls has been me," Mr Kelly added.

He has been told the only housing offer that can be made for him was to go back into emergency accommodation.

"I'm not going back to the Leixlip House Hotel where it all happened," he said.

"I said to them that the only difference between that room and Mountjoy Prison is that Mountjoy has bars on the windows."

He said there were at least 20 empty houses near his mother's home in west Dublin.

"The only thing I want, more than anything else on the planet, is a house, so they [the boys] can have a home."

He said all of the family's belongings are in a van that is parked outside his mother's house.

"Every single night, every single morning I'm waking up to only half my family, because the other half is gone," said Mr Kelly.
Gardai expect to continue searching for missing man Trevor Deely for at least another week as the massive search operation enters its final phase.

Officers have been searching a site at Chapelizod in west Dublin for five weeks and the operation is now in its closing stages.

"Gardai will continue searching for as long as possible but no trace of the missing man has been found," a senior source said.

The Garda Water Unit spent several days searching at the site last week, but its involvement has ended.

Garda specialist teams have been carrying out digs at spec- ific locations on the three-acre site.

Mr Deely (22), a Bank of Ireland worker, was last seen in the early hours of December 8, 2000, in the Haddington Road area of the city centre.

The last known images of him were captured by a CCTV camera at the junction of Haddington Road and Baggot Street at 4.14am.

A man dressed in black, who gardai believe also spoke to Mr Deely outside his place of work minutes previously, can be seen following him in the direction of Haddington Road.

This footage was only made public earlier this year after a specialist unit, set up in Pearse Street Garda Station to review the case, secured improved CCTV images.

Informant

Last month, it emerged that an informant, who has alleged that a member of a dysfunctional crime family shot and buried Mr Deely, came forward due to a guilty conscience.

The criminal told detectives that he had no interest in the 100,000 reward being offered for any significant information in relation to Mr Deely's disappearance, but instead said he could no longer keep the information to himself.

The alleged suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is a well-known offender who has been involved in various forms of criminality over several decades.

The man and his associates were suspected of involvement in the drug trade, particularly heroin, in the south inner city and south Dublin area throughout the 1990s.

Associates of the alleged suspect were involved in running street prostitution in the Baggot Street area at the time of Mr Deely's disappearance.

This criminal gang has also been investigated for the unsolved murder of 21-year-old Sinead Kelly in the same area in June 1998.

Ms Kelly, from Santry, was stabbed to death on the banks of the Grand Canal off Baggot Street.

Gardai believe she was murdered because she owed 800 to a Dublin drug dealer.

Two files, one on the dealer and the other on the man who detectives believe he hired to kill Ms Kelly, have been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

However, the DPP decided that there should be no prosecution in the case.
Two more advertisers have deserted George Hook's radio show amid reports lawyers are trying to determine if the controversial Newstalk presenter breached his contract.

Printing and graphic design franchise Snap and the Mental Health and Wellbeing Summit both confirmed they had stopped advertising with Hook's High Noon radio show.

Condemnation

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Summit said it had pulled its advertising from the programme and Snap has refused to allow its ads to be broadcast during Mr Hook's show.

Last week, Ireland's largest hotel group Dalata - the show's main sponsor - pulled out, followed by Tesco.

It came after widespread condemnation of Mr Hook's comments about the UK case of a 19-year-old woman who alleges she was raped by a man after having consensual sex with a different man.

Last Friday, Newstalk confirmed they had suspended Mr Hook from High Noon.

Station insiders told the Sunday Independent an investigation is expected to reach a conclusion early this week.

It is understood that lawyers are determining whether Mr Hook had breached his contract with his controversial remarks.

The 76-year-old, who has also engaged lawyers, is understood to believe he was not in breach of contract and negotiations are now expected to turn to his pay-off this week.

There is also concern among Newstalk staff that, if the matter is not resolved sooner rather than later, collateral damage could be caused to other shows.

Over the weekend, Newstalk managing editor Patricia Monahan rubbished claims that there was systemic sexism at the station.

She said the idea that female representation didn't count if not heard on air was "insulting".

Meanwhile, Minister of State Mary Mitchell O'Connor has said Mr Hook's controversial comments about rape are representative of a "deeply embedded culture of misogyny, sexism, double standards and victim blaming".

Clear

She said it is essential that the "realities around consent" are made "crystal clear" to future generations.

"George Hook's comments were a disgrace. There is no simpler way to say it," Ms Mitchell O'Connor said last night.

"While we have to welcome his apology, we also have to highlight that every time a statement like this is made it gives silent assent to others who share the same backward, insulting view," she added.
Travis Wayne Ball, age 43, an accomplished, compassionate career licensed practical nurse, went to be with the Lord unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 12, 2017. Travis was a graduate of Bristol Tennessee High School where he was a member of the band and played the tuba. He graduated from Slater Nursing School as an LPN and worked for many years in the field of home health care, private duty nursing, nursing homes, psychiatric facilities and prisons. He also attended the ETSU nursing program. Travis was an avid reader in research and had a broad depth of knowledge on numerous subjects. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Cecil S. Duke and Margaret Duke; and paternal grandparents, Claude P. Ball and Myrtle M. Ball. Travis is survived by his mother, Patricia Duke and fianc, Michael Redman; father, Kenneth Ball and wife, Eva; daughter, Anja Chekiri Ball; brother, Danny Tittle; step sister, Kim Akers; step brother, Gary Castle; niece, McKenzie Tittle; and nephew, Zac Tittle; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. The funeral service for Travis will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, September 17, 2017, in the Weaver Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Scott Price officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. prior to the service. The interment will follow the service at Eastern Heights Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Danny Tittle, Zac Tittle, Randy Edwards, Ricky Wallace, Dr. Shannon Finch, Benny Epperson and Michael Redman. Online condolences may be registered at www.weaverfuneralhome.net. Arrangements have been made with Weaver Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Comings & goings: Health bar, candle shop, fishing charter website

A health bar and candle-making shop will cut their ribbons in the next few weeks while a charter fishing company launches its website.
LINCOLN  Nebraska's population is aging, and lawmakers want to know what to do about it.

A demographic shift over the next few decades could mean a surge of retirees relying on public services and sluggish growth in the number of workers who drive the economy and generate tax revenue, according to a report produced for a legislative committee.

Some lawmakers say the state isn't doing enough to prepare for changes that could become a major drag on the state budget and economy. Those worries have prompted them to try to take a long-term view of how state officials should respond.

"We could find ourselves in a position of having to take some drastic action on taxes or drastic action on state government (spending)," said Sen. Paul Schumacher of Columbus, chairman of the Legislature's Planning Committee.

Nebraska's working-age and retirement-age populations are both projected to grow between 2020 and 2050, but the number of new retirees will be larger, according to a report by Jerry Deichert, director of the University of Nebraska at Omaha's Center for Public Affairs Research. Retiree numbers are also expected to increase at a faster rate.

Nebraska will gain roughly 112,000 new residents between 18 and 64 years old during that period, according to the report. The population of those 65 and older will grow by 146,000. The state's growth is largely driven by Latinos and concentrated around Nebraska's largest cities, while the most remote areas lose population, Deichert said.

By 2020, Nebraska is projected to have roughly 3.5 working-age residents for every person older than 65. By 2050, the ratio is expected to shrink to about 2.7 working-age people for each resident older than 65.

Schumacher, who leaves office in January 2019, said he's concerned that lawmakers spend too much time reacting to "knee-jerk pressures of the moment" and not enough energy on long-term problems that will have a greater impact on the state.

An older population and fewer younger residents could worsen the state's workforce shortage, which in turn could cause businesses to leave the state and make it harder to recruit new ones, said Renee Fry, executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute.

Fry said lawmakers should respond by placing a greater emphasis on early childhood education, before- and after-school programs and career training for the youths who will replace today's aging employees.

"Those kiddos are going to be a really critical part of our workforce," she said. "We need to make sure they're career-ready when they graduate. If we're not thinking about these kinds of trends now, my fear is we're going to have some real problems with the economy."

The shift could also stress the state budget unless lawmakers respond proactively, said Sen. Kate Bolz of Lincoln, who chaired the Legislature's Aging Nebraskans Task Force.

Bolz said lawmakers should make permanent the state's Aging and Disability Resource Center, a pilot program created in 2015 to connect aging residents and their families to the level of services they need. The program helps about 8,000 people a month and saves the state money by making residents aware of services that are less expensive than nursing homes, such as in-home respite care, Bolz said.

Bolz said the state needs to maintain its investment in nursing homes, which are already struggling to hire and retain front-line workers.

Additionally, Bolz said the state should create incentives for more residents to buy long-term care insurance. One option is a tax credit for people who purchase coverage, which would reduce the number of residents relying on the state to pay for care in a nursing home or other facility.

"You need to ensure you're providing the right incentives at the right time," Bolz said.
HICKORY  As leaves begin to fall and autumn rolls into Catawba County, the monarch butterfly will make its way into Western North Carolina as part of its natural migration.

But before the journey begins, the monarch butterfly will undergo a metamorphosis  a process similar to Tracey Pauls 28-year career with Catawba County Public Health (CCPH).

Paul, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) outreach specialist and farmers market manager, began her metamorphosis in 1989 as a health educator.

My husband and I were living in Charlotte, and my job brought us here, Paul said.

She moved to Catawba County in 1990, and within a year of starting, she was given more responsibility.

This (has been) my one and only health education job, said Paul, who earned a public health education degree from the University of North Carolina.

In the early 1990s, Paul transformed into something CCPH had never seen before.

I created our first and only childbirth educator position, Paul said. I (was) Lamaze certified and taught childbirth classes for almost 20 years, before I even had my children.

As a childbirth educator with no children at the time, Paul tackled criticism head-on.

There was always the question of how can I teach childbirth classes if I had never had a baby. Well, lots of (male) doctors deliver babies, and they can never have babies, she quipped.

Paul believes her personal inexperience with motherhood actually was a benefit to her teaching.

There is always the teacher who wants to focus on her experience all the time, and every pregnancy, labor and delivery is different, and the teacher is not there for personal sharing, she said.

Soon after, Pauls CCPH role would change again after her supervisor left to care for her own child.

As the new health education supervisor, Paul kept her sights on informing the public.

One of my struggles in working here has been letting people know what we do here at public health, she said. Unless you are directly impacted, a lot of people have no clue what all we do. Sometimes, it's a little confusing for people to really understand (what) our role is.

After supervising three health educators tasked with health promotion and disease prevention, Paul started working closely with the health director.

Over the years, Paul and the health director promoted initiatives like tobacco-free policies on school campuses and county offices, and also fought against the dwindling amount of school nurses.

We did second-grade tours; it was a really big project for many years where we brought in 2,000 second-graders for interactive tours, Paul said. At one point in time, we did not have a lot of school nurses, so that was one way we would stay involved with the schools.

Soon, Pauls path crossed with an intern at CCPH, Lindsey Lawhon.

I have known Tracey for my entire professional life, and that started in 2008 with my internship at public health, Lawhon said. I helped organize the second-grade tours during that time.

It was a lot of work for just one person, but Tracey managed to coordinate practically everything.

After her internship, Lawhon was offered a full-time position at CCPH in 2009 and continued to work closely with Paul.

Tracey had so much experience with public speaking and developing relationships with the public, and I feel like everything I learned during that time was learned from her, Lawhon said.

Lawhon also attributes the public speaking skills to helping in her career as the development specialist for the Council on Adolescents in Catawba County.

Tracey really does live and breathe public health, Lawhon said. She is an outstanding professional and incredibly passionate about what she does.

After the success of second-grade tours and an increase in school nurses, Pauls metamorphosis concluded with outstretched wings over the farmers market.

We are impacting all kinds of folks in the community now, Paul said.

After Pauls almost three-decade-long career, she serves as WIC outreach specialist and farmers market manager.

I am the one that makes sure everyone and everything gets off the ground every Thursday for the farmers market and all the stuff during and after, Paul said.

The CCPH Farmers Market has been held in public healths parking lot for five years and attracts about 230 visitors each week.

After realizing many WIC participants were not utilizing the farmers market vouchers, Paul and her team set out to make a change.

We decided that if we were going to provide these vouchers to people that we needed them to be able to actually use them, she said.

Paul, with the help of others, energized CCPH to become pioneers with its farmers market.

We were the first county in North Carolina to do this, and since then, we have been able to help other counties come up with their version of a farmers market as well, she added.

Since the creation of the farmers market, Catawba County has been in the states top three counties for highest redemption rates of the WIC farmers market vouchers.

CCPH Community Outreach Manager Zack King can attest to Pauls hard work in not only the farmers market, but with everything public-health related.

Tracey is a public health educator by heart, making sure that babies, mothers and families are living the safest and happiest lives they can, said King, who started in 2015. I look up to her a lot, and she has been an incredible mentor.

In just a couple of years, King said Paul has already left an impression on him.

The biggest thing that I have seen in Tracey is her belief that every single person in our community is as important as the next, King said. She will treat the homeless person in need of our services just as well as a council member coming to visit.

He also said Paul is known for her voice, laugh and a smile thats infectious to all she meets.

She has always stepped up to the plate no matter what, King said.

Although most folks who have been able to work with Paul count themselves lucky, Paul is quick to consider herself just as lucky.

The blessing, to me, has been able to work with such dedicated staff over my 28 years, Paul said. They truly care about what they do and the people they serve, and the farmers market is just one example of how we all come together.

Its a labor of love  lots of hard work, but lots of payoffs as well.

Paul said she needs the farmers market as much as it needs her; its safe to say, after 28 years of transformations, Paul has blossomed in her career.
This domain has expired. If you owned this domain, contact your domain registration service provider for further assistance. If you need help identifying your provider, visit https://www.tucowsdomains.com/
Indian academic institutions are hurtling towards the deep end of irrelevance. On the one hand, India faces new challenges that range from corruption in its political economy and pressure on public resources to a future of work that requires new competencies and newer models of employment. On the other, universities in India continue with business as usual  credentialing through rote learning and standardised examinations, uninspiring classrooms with extremely low engagement, and a student experience that is violent and intolerant both on the body and the mind. The tragedy of our country is that there are exceptions and they, rather than being used as exemplars for larger change, are progressively swatted to the norm by regulatory agencies.

Take a student who comes to a university  desirous of new learning and wanting to change the world. Most are trying to figure out how to navigate the changing environment around them. Of course, there are those too who have been sent to mark time until others decide what is to become of them. The faculty too begin with phenomenal earnestness, but lose their enthusiasm to build institutions that matter sooner than their students. Many have come to institutions without the necessary preparation in the methods of their discipline or pedagogy or a perspective to grow questioning minds. The university leadership is a reward rather than a clarion call for building a bold new world; and most rest in its celebration. The bureaucracy seldom understands the nuances of managing institutions and how to get the most out of it. Society rarely cares about institutions once its own children have graduated. So, how do we heal this hurt of generations?

Universities are meant to be open, questioning, trusting, experimenting, inspirational, direction setting, and enabling people to believe that nothing is impossible. They are also universes of learning. They are safe spaces in which to try out new ideas, for diverse thinking, and for unpopular conversations that are based out of deep thinking, research, new theoretical constructs, and data. They make our understanding of the society more contemporary and solve its more knotty problems. Universities are always places of the future the future is shaped in its crucibles, classrooms and conversations. Education is the basis of social and economic change in any country. India has yet to fully absorb the value of this proposition. Academic organisations are difficult to manage as job security and low accountability when combined with low expectation and poor resources creates a destructive admixture of powerful mediocrity that burns to ashes the possibilities of the university. Changes in three areas would be needed to restore to our institutions the above privileges and characteristics.

The most crucial change is required in the governance of our institutions. The fundamental question is around who makes choices concerning the institutions. Regulations and regulators that control create rigidity and uncertainty in institutions and make them incapable of renewing from within. Governments and their bureaucracies will have to free up institutions to allow them to make their own choices on who they admit, how they admit, what comprises education, details of a degree, and how institutions are run from within. Once institutions commit to outcomes, all decisions regarding their management have to be made by the university with no constraints from any external body. Today, government agencies constrain the inputs and pre-define processes at the university and thereby also define the outcomes by default. This processes has to be reversed. They should only demand transparency and define outcomes.

The second change that is required is to build the ability of institutions to attract a very different kind of faculty  one that has the preparation of deep scholarship, is entrepreneurial, that cares for its students, and one that has traits to build the profession. Indian higher education will not survive if it does not become a congregation of the meritorious. The day we have a hundred mechanical engineering professors who have the desire and capabilities to find a new substitute for the internal combustion engine, Indian higher education would be ready to lead the countrys development. The best students will have to be attracted back to become academics before our institutions can transit to a higher performance levels.

And last, the regulator will have to understand that excellence is about culture. Hence, all policies will have to be designed to allow each individual institution to conduct its own transformational processes. Only such a change making strategy, long drawn as it may be, is sustainable and likely to create thousands of quality institutions in India.

It would serve the country well to redesign our educational systems if we think of the face and aspirations of the 17-year-old entering a university for the first time and a 45-year-old seeking to retool themselves with new skills as their world of work gets disrupted dramatically. This will require universities to become immensely flexible. It is has another benefit as well. It will produce graduates for whom the world of possibilities will be unconstrained and innovation will flow for the benefit of all.

Pankaj Chandra is vice chancellor, Ahmedabad University

The views expressed are personal
After the murder of a seven-year-old boy at the Ryan International School in Gurugram, fear has gripped parents, including Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, who worry for their kids safety.

What Ive heard from jail; violence against women and children. I think its sad that these things are happening. All of us should condemn it and I feel that there has to be a change, he said.

These people who do it should be dealt in a very severe way. And the people whove suffered should get justice, he added.

Talking about the terrible Ryan murder case, the 58-year-old actor said that he is scared for his kids. How is it a safe place anymore? the father of three asked before saying, You cant trust anybody!

Sanjay Dutt arrives at an event in New Delhi on Sept 16. (IANS)

Pradyuman Thakur was mercilessly murdered with his throat slit on September 8, inside the school washroom. The child was allegedly killed by Ashok Kumar, the bus conductor of the school. The principal of the Gurugram-based school was suspended following this incident.

On the work front, the Munna Bhai MBBS star is in the national capital to promote his latest film Bhoomi along with filmmaker Omung Kumar and co-star actress Aditi Rao Hydari. The film marks Dutts comeback to the silver screen after a gap of three years since his release from jail.

Bhoomi will hit the theatres on September 22.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
All geared up for her upcoming release, Bhoomi, touted to be Sanjay Dutts comeback film, actor Aditi Rao Hydari is content with the way her career has shaped up.

However, looking back at the seven years she has been a part of Bollywood, with a dozen films to her credit, the actor feels that its disappointing that filmmakers never really thought of her for a strong role to portray on-screen.

When I was offered Bhoomi, I couldnt believe it for a moment and I actually wondered as to how they [makers] thought of me, because I am usually not very often thought of as a very strong face, though I dont know why that is. I think most filmmakers have a very narrow sort of view of who is strong and who is delicate, says Aditi, who has been a part of films such as Yeh Saali Zindagi (2011), London, Paris, New York (2012) and Murder 3 (2013).

#coverstory @khushmag #abhaysingh @sonia_ullah @palazzoversacedubai  A post shared by Aditi Rao Hydari (@aditiraohydari) on Aug 22, 2017 at 12:04am PDT

Aditi plays the role of Dutts daughter in Bhoomi, a revenge drama that shows an intense father-daughter relationship. On what might have worked for her for this particular role, she adds, Here, they needed vulnerability for the character. So, I guess that worked in my favour. They needed that sunshine girl, who then goes through something, so it was that combination that they were looking for.

Aditi also feels that makers didnt want someone who is already a big name in the industry, to play the titular role. Apparently, they were looking at people who had not done a lot of work, though I have been here for almost seven years now. They were looking at people, who were much newer may be and who had just done a few films, she says, adding, And then somewhere, I dont even know how, maybe it was just the right time and place when somebody just thinks of you, and they called me.

She further reveals that when she first heard the story, she didnt know anything about rest of the cast, but the story was very powerful and they told me the name of the film and that I was to play the title part, I had no reason to say no.

Asked how she reacted to co-starring with Dutt, the actor says she had never imagined that shell ever get to be in a film with him. He is such a rock star. On-screen, he is playing this father, who is very protective and I play his daughters role. Its a powerful story and Sanjay sir is so effortless, she says, adding that she was lucky to have been picked for a film that Dutt had chosen to be his comeback film.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
The father in Sanjay Dutt is scared. Ever since the news of the brutal murder of Ryan International Schools seven-year-old student, Pradyuman Thakur, came to light, parents are worried sick about the safety of their children anywhere outside their homes. Dutt, who has a daughter Trishala (29) and six-year-old twins Iqra and Shahraan, says its scary and beyond belief that someone can go to that extent to harm a child.

Its so, so scary. Who can hurt a child that much? These kinds of crimes should never take place. Minor girls being raped or children getting molested I dont know where this world is going, he sighs.

Dutt, who was in Delhi to promote his upcoming film Bhoomi, calls for severe punishment for such criminals. Whoever does such a thing should be taken to task in a major way where an example is set. The government should take some extreme and severe steps. There should not be any trial and this or that. This is downright heinous, says the actor, who, in 2016, completed his five-year term in prison for illegal possession of weapons, and is aware of how law and order can change the course of things.

As a celeb with influence, does he wish to spread awareness about such issues through cinema? I would, but, I think, more than the film, what matters more is how people conduct themselves. I mean, how can anybody do something like that [to a kid]? Honestly, I couldnt even read that [Ryan School murder] full article. Its just crazy.

Crimes against women are another concern, and Dutts comeback film, Bhoomi, focuses on that. It talks about violence against women, which is a big problem in India today and I really condemn it. I believe in womens empowerment and saving the girl child. Beti bachao and beti padhao is what can take this country forward, says the actor.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
His feud with fellow Bollywood actor Salman Khan had come with a huge professional price, according to actor Vivek Oberois recent revelations. It was like a fatwa was issued against me from the powers that be, he told a tabloid.

Vivek was quoted as saying this in Mumbai Mirror, talking about his 2003 feud with Salman  they clashed over actor Aishwarya Rai (now married to Abhishek Bachchan), who was then reportedly dating Vivek and had broken up with Salman before that. Following a press conference, in which Vivek spoke of how Salman had threatened him, he became the guy nobody was supposed to work with.

He said, When my personal life got messed up, I couldnt keep my eye on the ball. Even if I gave a hit, work wouldnt follow. Shootout at Lokhandwala became a huge hit, but I sat at home for a year after that.

Vivek had made his presence felt with the portrayal of Chandu in Ram Gopal Vermas Company (2002). He went on to impress the audiences still more in films such as Road and Saathiya, which also released in 2002. Along with his professional life, his personal life at that time was going great guns  Vivek was in a steady relationship with Aishwarya, his co-star in Kyun! Ho Gaya Na (2004).

But then, controversy followed. At a 2003 media conference, Vivek claimed that Salman reportedly dialled his number 41 times and threatened to end his life. Many feel that this statement went against him.

Though Vivek continued to do films, he never reached the level everyone had expected him to reach. Also, there were times when he had little work. There were reports that Salman made sure that the plum projects wouldnt go to Vivek.

In the recent report, the tabloid quoted an acquaintance of Vivek as saying, To what extent Salman blacklisted him [in] the industry is a matter of conjecture. Its easy to assume that he used his clout to ask people to exclude Vivek from projects. But then, Salman didnt get along with Ranbir Kapoor and John Abraham either, and theyve both got work through the years.

Vivek, however, reconciled his differences with Salman later. He even praised the latters Eid 2017 release Tubelight. I want Tubelight to break [the] records of Baahubali and become a superhit film. I feel Tubelight has all the capacity to make Hindi cinema proud all around the world and I would like to wish all the luck for the entire team of Tubelight, he told an agency.

Uyir Nanba! Happy Birthday to #Thala!What an honour its been being part of the #Vivegam family. Learnt a lot from you #Ajith Anna, you are an inspiration to us all! A post shared by Vivek Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) on May 1, 2017 at 12:06am PDT

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Vivek was last seen in the Tamil film Vivegam, starring Ajith. He was also a part of the web series, Inside Edge.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Dehradun Police will have to wait longer before it gets to know if it can file a case against a woman judge from Uttar Pradesh for allegedly misbehaving with cops at a police station here last week.

On September 12, a woman, claiming to be a judge from the neighbouring state, allegedly slapped a policeman at the Premnagar police station besides manhandling other cops. A purported video of the incident went viral on social media.

Police, after verifying her identity as Jaya Pathak, a principal judge at the family court in Unnao, last week applied for seeking permission of the registrar general of the Allahabad high court to prosecute her.

The (Uttar Pradesh) high court has formed a committee to look into our application and examine the evidence (including the video footage) that we had submitted for seeking permission to file a complaint against the judge. A decision on our application after its due evaluation, is likely to be taken in a weeks time, Naresh Rathore, in-charge of the Premnagar police station, told HT.

The woman was visiting the police station in support of her son, who had been embroiled in a fight between two groups of youngsters studying at Dehradun-based University of Petroleum and Energy Studies.

Premnagar Police had brought both the parties to the police station for interrogation when the incident happened.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Doonites are happier than ever before. Reason: the state capitals makeover carried out by various government agencies ahead of the two-day visit of BJP president Amit Shah.

The social media sarcastically thanked Shah, who will arrive in the state on Tuesday, and went on requesting him to come every now and then.

Mota Bhai (referred to big brother in Guajarati), please come every month to Dehradun. At least government will gear up and take a note of the civic problems, commented Akhilsh Dimri on his Facebook page.

Another user Mukesh Rawat added: Someone ask Mota Bhai to come over to my colony, no one is concerned for the roads of my locality.

In the last few days, various government departments, including the public works and forest, have been doing every bit to fill the potholes and beautify city.

On Monday, several employees from the forest department were busy planting more than 400 trees of date palm and golden bottle brush that were specially delivered from Uttar Pradesh on Sunday night.

Harish Chandra Bhatt, a forest employee supervising the plantation of trees in an empty field next to the state secretariat building, told HT that these tree species could be directly planted in the holes done by the earth moving machine. A date palm tree cost around 10,000 and 50 of them were ordered.

Doesnt it look like as we are in Dubai? Dehradun is changing sir, a smiling Bhatt told this correspondent while pointing towards the trees.

The empty plot which is a disputed property was decorated with the date palm and other specie trees as the road passes through chief ministers residence where Shah will be visiting and hold meetings.

Besides, the PWD tirelessly painted patches of the major roads from where Shah will be crossing. The potholes have been filled. The road that heads to BJP office has also been repaired so that Shah doesnt feel bumpy roads.

The Haridwar-Dehradun national highway which had taken several human lives over the past few months due to abysmally poor condition has also got new lease of life.

Shah will land at Dehradun airport on Tuesday morning and will visit party office via national highway. It takes nearly 40-50 minutes to reach BJP office from the airport.
Five persons of two families were killed and six others were critically injured in a clash in Palwali village in district Faridabad late on Sunday night.

Police said the incident occurred around 9.30pm on Sunday when two groups clashed allegedly over parking issue in the village. However, police also said that some villagers claimed the two groups had been allegedly involved in a dispute for the last few years.

As tension gripped the village after the murders, police force was rushed to Palwali village on Monday morning as a precautionary measure. It is alleged that the accused opened fire at two families killing five of them on the spot and critically injuring six others. The injured, including the husband of village sarpanch Dayawati, have been admitted to a hospital.

Commissioner of Police Hanif Qureshi also rushed to the village soon after the incident. Those killed were identified as Srichand, Rajinder, Ishwer, Nanee and Davinder of the same village.

An FIR was registered in Kheripul police station against 25 accused and 19 persons have been rounded up in the case. Commissioner of Police Hanif Qureshi constituted an SIT early on Monday to investigate the case.

Five persons of village Palwali have been killed and we have rounded up some suspects whose are being interrogated, Qureshi told HT. Officials said police teams have been deployed in Gurgaon, Palwal and parts of Faridabad town to nab the accused.

 We are keeping a close watch on the situation, ACP crime Rajesh Cheche said.

(Details are awaited)

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A 24-year-old drunk man went on a rampage with a shaving blade, slashing five people at a neighbourhood in outer Delhis Mangolpuri on Sunday night.

The man also ended up hurting himself with the same blade when people tried to restrain him. The violence ended with people thrashing the man before handing him over to the police.

The accused has been identified as Shubham, a native of Jalaun in Uttar Pradesh. He works at a factory in Mangolpuris industrial area and lives in a rented room in the same area.

According to MN Tiwari, DCP Outer Delhi, the problem began when a sloshed Shubham visited a cigarette kiosk in his neighbourhood on Sunday night. However, the shop owner, 64-year-old Babulal, turned him away as he did not have change for Rs 500 that Shubham offered for a tobacco product.



Shubham allegedly picked up a fight with the shop owner over this issue. When he tried to get physically violent, locals intervened and forced Shubham to back off.

The accused left the spot at that time, but soon returned with a shaving blade and attacked the shopkeeper, his wife and son, said the DCP.

Shubham had a free hand with the blade for a brief while before other people in the neighbourhood could react. When neighbours tried to control him, he attacked them too.

As people controlled Shubham, he turned the blade on himself. That, however, did not evoke any sympathy in the people who badly thrashed him before a police team reached the spot and rescued him.

A total of six persons, including the attacker, were admitted to Sanjay Gandhi Hospital in the neighbourhood. One of them underwent a surgery, but police said none of their injuries was life-threatening.

A case has been registered against Shubham and the police are waiting for him to recover before arresting him. Shubham did not have a criminal past, said police.
Four armed men fired at employees of a private cash collection company and fled with around Rs 50 lakh from their cash van in northeast Delhis Karawal Nagar late Monday afternoon.

The audacious heist took place around 5 pm. The robbers who were on two motorcycles, shot at cashier Manveers hand and hit security guard Pradeep on his head with a pistol butt, police said. The injured were admitted to Guru Teg Bahadur hospital where their condition was stated to be out of danger.

A K Singla, deputy commissioner of police (northeast), said a case of robbery was registered at the Karawal Nagar police station. Teams were formed to probe the daylight armed robbery case. The CCTV cameras installed near the crime scene are being analysed for clues about the suspects.

Read more: Fake income tax officials caught duping Delhi family thrashed | Video

A police officer said the van was hired by the private company which collects cash from shopkeepers and deposits the money in banks. The van was heading towards Karawal Nagar after collecting cash in Loni area. Apart from Manveer, Pradeep, and driver Adil, two more custodians were present in the van.

As the vehicle reached Johripur area, four men on two motorcycles forced its driver to stop. Suddenly, they fired a bullet at the cashier and hit the guard on his head. They threatened to kill everyone if anybody resisted or raised an alarm, said the officer.

The four took out cash from the cash box, put the money in their bags and fled. Police are questioning the cash van staff to ascertain if they had a role in the robbery.
St Stephens College has come yet another step closer to gaining autonomy.

However, there is a small hurdle. As the University Grants Commission (UGC) has come up with new guidelines on autonomous colleges, the institution would be required to move a fresh application based on the revised format.

The institution had earlier decided to apply for autonomy on March 25, even as students and faculty members objected on the grounds that they werent consulted. Sources said the college pushed the application through anyway, only to be told by the UGC that it would have to be re-filed in the new format.

St Stephens principal John Varghese confirmed the decision to apply for autonomy before the UGC.

According to sources, the human resource development (HRD) ministry and the UGC will soon convene a meeting with college principals across the country to dispel misconceptions on the issue of autonomy. Officials will use the opportunity to provide information on the scheme, and clarify on monetary concerns harboured by the colleges concerned.

A number of colleges fear that autonomy will come with a cut in finances, which is clearly not the case. We want good institutes to opt for autonomy. Colleges with academic and operative freedom do better than others, and possess more credibility, said a senior UGC official.

Read more: Not just St Stephens, other trust-run colleges vie for autonomous status too

According to the UGC Guidelines for Autonomous Colleges-2017, a college coming under the scheme will be able to determine and prescribe its own courses; restructure and redesign the syllabi to suit local needs; and make it skill-oriented in consonance with job requirements.

An autonomous college would also be empowered to prescribe rules for admission in accordance with prevalent reservation policies; evolve methods to assess students performance; conduct examinations; and launch self-financing courses, among other actions.

The guidelines further stipulate that the parent varsity must ensure a reference to the college concerned on all degrees, diplomas and certificates issued to students. Autonomous institutions will also be permitted to provide their own provision and migration certificates.

Once the college submits its proposal for autonomy to DU, it has to be forwarded to the UGC within 30 days in accordance with the new guidelines. If the proposal is rejected by the university, the matter will be communicated to the college and the UGC through a speaking order. If no decision is taken within 30 days, the UGC will assume that the university has no objection to the proposal. The college will forward an advance copy of the proposal to the UGC.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
An alleged al Qaeda operative has been arrested from east Delhis Shakarpur, police said on Monday.

Shumon Haque, 28, had been allegedly associated with the terror outfit for the last four years, said Pramod Kushwaha, DCP (special cell).

Kushwaha said an identity card found in Haques possession showed him to be a native of Kishanganj in Bihar.

Haque was arrested on Sunday by a special cell team near a bus stand in Shakapur around 6pm on Sunday after a tip-off. He is being interrogated about his alleged activities with the terror outfit.

Delhi Police had earlier arrested two other alleged al Qaeda operatives before Independence Day in August this year.

The operation was carried out in collaboration with central agencies and West Bengal police.

Al Qaeda is an international terror group that was founded by slain terrorist Osama bin Laden. The group was behind the 9/11 attacks on World Trade Center in New York and Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States defence department.
In a break with tradition, politicians will share stage with film and televisions actors in Ramlila at Red Fort this year.

One of the oldest Ramlila organisers in the Walled City  Luv Kush Ramlila Committee (LKRC) has engaged members of Parliament and councillors to play mythological characters in the theatrical enactment of Ramayana.

Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment Vijay Sampla, who is an MP from Hoshiyarpur in Punjab, will portray Nishad Raj. The Bhojpuri actor-turned-politician and Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari will play the role of Angad and Shobha Vijender, BJP leader Vijender Guptas wife and a councillor from Rohini central ward, will be seen as Ahilya.

The organiser approached me with their offer, which I accepted. This is the first time; I am participating in any Ramlila. It is a small role therefore does not require rigorous rehearsal. I am looking forward to my performance, Sampla told Hindustan Times.

Shobha said with her participation, she wants to convey a message that Ramlila is our cultural heritage and we must preserve it. Until people from different sections of the society do not come forward, we cannot send the true message of Lord Ram to masses. It was also necessary to bust the myth that Ramlilas only belong to commoners or poor people. I took it as a challenge. As I had been doing theatre during college days, it was not that difficult for me, she said.

North Delhi mayor Preeti Agarwal and her counterpart in east Delhi Neema Bhagat are also likely to play important characters at LKRCs event, which is starting from September 21.

LKRC, one of the four big Ramlila organisers in old Delhi, was started in 1988. It soon gained popularity after Bollywood actors and celebrities were invited for the play. Since 2015, films and TV artistes have been acting in LKRCs Ramlila.

Ramlilas began in Delhi around 350 years ago, when Mughal king Shahjahan shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi and built Shahjahanabad  today known as Old Delhi.

It is believed that last Mughal emperor would fund the celebration, which used to take place at the bank of Yamuna behind Lal Quila. The venue was later shifted to Ramlila Maidan. The event was attended by the British Viceroys and post-independence, Prime Ministers, Presidents, and other dignitaries have been watching the Ramlilas in old Delhi.

Our motto is that people from every walk of life should contribute to the cause. Their involvement may be in three forms  tann (body), mann (soul / heart), and dhan (wealth). We wanted to take it to the next level so we invited politicians. Participation in Ramlila, which is another form of worship, is contribution through body and soul, said Ashok Agarwal, president of LKRC.

Around 50 film and television actors are participating in LKRC. To make war scenes impressive and live, the committee has roped in a Lucknow based magician Hasan Kamal Rizvi, who is essaying the role of Narantak.

Rizvi, a known magician will help create illusion to make the scene lively and more realistic like beheaded demons walking or characters vanishing into thin air, said Ashok. Apart from Rizvi, a few more Muslim actors  Raza Murad, Shahbaz Khan, and Ali Khan, will be acting in LKRCs Ramlila.

The organiser has planned various cultural activities such as daily dance performance by a different troupe everyday and is also bringing winners of beauty pageant of more than 56 countries to attract the crowd. Manoj Tiwari has written and composed two new songs for the event.

Earlier, I would play Kevat but when Ravi Kishen joined, he took the role. This year, he will do Narad. I am appearing as Angad. Acting in Ramlila gives immense pleasure and satisfaction, said Tiwari.

Vishal Karwal, who is playing Krishna in a TV serial, has been roped to play Ram at LKRC.

One of special features at LKRC is its massive stage (250X40). The stage will be divided into seven parts, which are basically different sets depicting palace, forest, sea, village, and battlefield. We will create new sets everyday as the story progresses, Ashok said.

While the LKRC has invited celebrities, the Shri Dharmic Leela Committee (SDLC), established in 1924, has decided to stick to traditional form of Ramlila enactment. It has invited a popular troupe of actors from Moradabad led by Pradeep Sharma this year too. They have been performing at SDLC for more than a decade.

The highlight of this Ramlila is hasya kavi sammelan, which is held in Janak Bazaar, where visitors relish traditional old Delhi savories on all 11 days. We remain with the basic. The emphasis is on the life of Lord Ram and his teachings. We are running the show in original format for decades but keep rotating episodes to maintain freshness. We dont bother about actors. We dont want whistles but applause, said Ravi Jain, press secretary, SDLC.

Another group, Nav Shri Dharmik Lila Committee (NSDLC) is one of the oldest organisations as has been doing Ramlila in Old Delhi for decades.

NSDLC president Hari Agrawal said episodes related to birth of Ram and Kaikeyi are enacted only in his Ramlila. Incidents or scenes, which are not shown by other committees, are performed at our Ramlila. A very few people have knowledge about those episodes. Kaikeyi is always shown in bad light. But it is not like that. We recreate the entire Ramyana beautifully, which leaves an impression on people, said Hari.

NSDLC has engaged nearly 40 traditional Muradabad artistes, including a few actors from Mumbai. The actors from Mumbai dont come because of the publicity or money. They join us because before starting their professional career in Bollywood, they were associated with our Ramlila. It is their way of expressing gratitude, Hari added.

Apart from the play, Ramlila Savaari, a procession, is an integral part of the Ramlila held at Ramlila Maidan. The 12 day-long feature begins with first day of the Navratras and continues till Bharat Milap, the day after Dussehra.

Bahadur Shah Zafar started it when he took over the reign of Shahjahanabad. Ever since, the Shri Ramlila Committee (SRC), Ramlila Maidan, has been organising it.

On all 12 evenings, a set of floats ferry artistes dressed as Ram, Lakshman, Sita, and Raavan from Esplanade Road in Chandni Chowk. The three-hour-long journey starts at 6pm, and traverses the lanes of the Walled cityDariba, Chandni Chowk Main Road, Nai Sadak, Chawri Bazaar, Chowk Hauz Qazi and Ajmeri Gate. It ends at the Ramlila Maidan, where the actors enact crucial scenes from the epic Ramayana.

Want to watch Ramlila?

The groups will enact the play everyday from September 21 to October 1

Luv Kush Ramlila Committee

Timing: 6pm

Venue: Lal Quila Maidan, opposite Jama Masjid

Shri Dharmic Ramlila Committee

Timing: 8pm

Venue: Madhavas Park, Lal Quila, opposite Lajpat Rai Market

Nav Shri Dharmik Lila Committee

Timing: 8pm

Venue: 15 August Park, Lal Quila, opposite Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir

Shri Ramlila Committee

Timing: 8pm

Venue: Ramlila Maidan, opposite Zakir Husain College

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Two devotees of jailed godman Sant Rampal were killed on Monday while cleaning a sewer at his ashram located in Mundka in west Delhi.

The victims were identified as Amarjeet, 30, and Makhan Lal, 27. DCP (outer) Pankaj Singh said the deceased had no connection with any of the civic agencies of the city.

The incident took place around 5pm on Monday and the police claimed that the men had asphyxiated to death after inhaling some toxic gases.

Police said a third volunteer was injured when he attempted to pull the duo out of the sewer tank. He too fell unconscious after being exposed to toxic gases inside the sewer but climbed out on time.

One of the victims, Makhan Lal, belonged from Nepal but was living and working at the ashram for the last 15 years. Amarjeet lived in a nearby village.

A case of death and injury due to negligence was registered at Mundka police station in connection with the incident. The manager of the ashram and other volunteers were being questioned in the matter.

Police officers said they were questioning the manager and residents of the ashram to know why they did not hire sanitation workers for cleaning the sewer and instead depended on volunteers.

A senior police officer said the incident came to their notice after a call was made to the police control room. A police team rushed to the incident spot and learnt that Lal had first entered the sewer tank to clean it. When he did not come out despite other volunteers repeatedly calling out his name, the manager allegedly asked Amarjeet to go down and check.

A few minutes later, another devotee who was keeping a watch on the two, went inside after Amarjeet too stopped responding to them. The man climbed down but as he started feeling uncomfortable he climbed out and fell unconscious.

A rescue team from the fire department later reached the spot and the bodies of the two cleaners were pulled out of the sewer tank. They were rushed to a nearby hospital where doctors pronounced them brought dead, the officer added.

Police said legal action is also likely to be taken against the ashram.
Postgraduate students pursuing courses at the University of Mumbai are likely to end their first semester without attending a single lecture, as the deadline for admission has been extended til September 25.

Even as it faces flak over delayed results and missing answer sheets, the university has once again deferred admissions to postgraduate courses at affiliated colleges. Students are worried about wasting an entire semester as colleges are scheduled to shut down for Diwali vacations in October, leaving just two weeks for completion of the admissions process and starting MA, MCom and LLM classes before the break for vacations.

First the delay in starting assessment of papers, then delay in announcement of results and the same has affected postgraduate admissions; its a never-ending downward spiral, said the principal of a suburban college. With the admission deadline pushed to September 25, colleges are worried that they wont get to start lectures before the first week of October. Well have to break for Diwali vacations starting mid-October. So technically, students have lost an entire semester of academic time due to the delay in announcing results, he added.

While the original deadline for postgraduate admissions was August 21, the same has been postponed twice already and on Saturday, the university decided push back the dates again to September 25. Whats the use of postponing admissions if the university is still struggling to announce all pending results? Rather, let colleges start lectures for students on the basis of provisional admission instead of wasting academic time, said another principal. She added that while extra lectures in vacations could be the way out, many teachers are not keen to give up their holidays once again. Many have worked through the May holidays as well as the Ganesh festival break and to expect them to work during Diwali holidays will be unfair, she added.

In some cases where colleges have managed to fill up more than 50% seats in post graduate courses have decided to start lectures for those students starting this week. It makes no sense to wait for another week or so to start lectures, especially since the university has already declared dates for MA examinations even before their admissions are done, said Anju Kapoor, principal of UPG College, Vile Parle. Tentative exam dates have been shared by the university and MA/MCom exams by the last week of December or early January.

For the time being, the university is hoping to clear all pending results soon, however, theres still no word about the 28,000 missing answer scripts.

More than three months after the on-screen marking (OSM) assessment of answer scripts of lakhs of students began, officials from University of Mumbai (MU) are searching for misplaced answer booklets. They claim the answer sheets could be lying in a warehouse, misplaced in the assessment software or lost altogether.

Online assessment of all MU exams conducted between March and May this year began in mid-May. Answer scripts were first scanned at the examination house situated in MUs Kalina campus, after which they were uploaded on the assessment software as per subject codes and made available to teachers for assessment. Right from the start, teachers complained about receiving answer papers with the wrong subject code or in another language under their log-in ID.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
New Delhi

Psychiatrists in the city are flooded with calls, emails and messages from schools, with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) asking all its affiliated schools to get the psychometric evaluation of all employees.

But will psychometric tests make schools safer? Experts are not too sure.

It serves no purpose as its a generalised evaluation of a persons current state of mind and cannot be an indicator of whether the person will assault a kid in future or not, says Dr Samir Parikh, director-department of mental health and behavioural sciences, Fortis Healthcare.

Psychometric test is not a single test but a series of tests, and the result may not be 100% accurate.

It is not like a blood test or an MRI scan, it is a test which is based on the evaluation of a persons background, family history, etc. The results are based on how well a person evaluating is able to interpret the information, says Dr Rajesh Sagar, professor, department of psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi.

Also, India reels under severe shortage of mental health professionals, with an estimated 300-350% demand and supply gap, which puts a question mark on the feasibility of the whole exercise within the stipulated two months.

We have not been able to provide trained counsellors to schools because there is an acute shortage of trained psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. It is not feasible to conduct the tests on the entire staff of all the affiliated schools in two months, says Dr Parikh.

Dr Sagar agrees, These tests take long hours; sometimes one sitting is not enough and we may need to have two-three sittings, and interpreting the results takes even longer.

Also, experts fear it may lead to substandard evaluation.

It will encourage fly by night psychologists to offer certificates that may not hold much psychiatric value, says Dr Parikh.

More thought needs to be put into the matter.

It is not an entirely a bad idea, however, there could be some method if one brainstorms and comes up with a better strategy like choosing high-risk people, etc., says Dr Sagar.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) said on Monday that construction of an underground U-turn near Ambience Mall on the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway has been cleared. He also shared the project details with the two major stake holders  DLF Limited and Ambience officials.

The U-turn is urgently required for pedestrians and commuters coming from Udyog Vihar to cross National Highway 48 on way to DLF, Ambience and other areas. In the absence of a functional U-turn, commuters take

U-turn from under Rajokri flyover.

NHAI officials and representatives of the stakeholders and officials of the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) held a meeting in this regard at the NHAI office at 24 Toll site. The NHAI said cost of the project has been pegged at 70 crore. While the road authority will share 50% of the cost, the two stakeholders will share the rest.

Both the stakeholders in principal raised no objections to the design of the underground U-turn and agreed to share cost. The NHAI will, however, wait for a formal approval from their side. The U-turn is required urgently, AK Sharma, project director, NHAI Gurgaon, said.

At a meeting held a fortnight ago, the two stakeholders had voiced their willingness to share design of the underground U-turn.

The NHAIs initial plan was to construct an elevated U-turn, but it changed to an underground one in the last meeting. The formal consent by the two stakeholders is likely at the next meeting at the NHAIs headquarters in Dwarka.

The underground U-turn is to come up exactly at the place the elevated U-turn had been proposed by the NHAI.

The U-turn will start somewhere from the point where the Shankar Chowk flyover connects Udyog Vihar and will cover nearly 150 metres before connecting Leela Hotel on the other side of the expressway, the NHAI project director said.

Read I Gurgaon: Elevated U-turn on Delhi-Gurgaon expressway near Ambience Mall soon

A series of meetings has taken place in this regard between the NHAI and the state officials since 2008 when the expressway was thrown open to the public.

The NHAI, in 2015, decided to construct an elevated U-turn (instead of underground) and hired a consultant to prepare the design. It followed a meeting with the officials of the Haryana urban development authority (Huda) in November 2014.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Haryana government on Monday took administrative control of the Ryan International School as it reopened 10 days after an eight-year-old student was found dead with his throat slit inside the institute.

The murder of the class two student in the prestigious school brought the safety of school children into sharp focus and sparked protests in many parts of the country.

A conductor of a school bus has been arrested over the murder and the state government has handed over the probe into the incident to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

With attendance very low  only three to four students of each class were present  no classes were held on Monday even as several parents said they were contemplating withdrawing their children from the school.

I want to withdraw my sons admission from this school. He has refused to attend classes here and is very scared to visit the school premises, said Madan Kumar, a software engineer.

Shockingly, when I approached the teachers today, they were not even interested to counsel parents and asked to look for another school in the city, he added.

Police personnel were also deployed in civvies.

School officials were seen escorting students from the school buses to campus to avoid media and students were given directions not to interact with journalists.

Deputy commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh took charge as administrator of the school for three months.

Parents also interacted with the deputy commissioner who assured them of better safety and security.

Parents said several school buses reached late and on many routes buses did not ply.

I waited till 7.30 am but when the bus did not reach, I came to drop my son. The school authorities are still taking it casually and have not even informed parents about the bus schedule, said Sanjay Singh, a resident of Sector 49.

Parents said they were annoyed as the school did not send them a message regarding unavilability of buses. Some blamed the school staff of being too casual to security issues.

When I asked the management what security provisions have they added in these ten days, they asked me to be patient and said it will take another 15 days to get things going, said Swati Singh, a worried parent.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
As the Ryan international school Bhondsi reopened on Monday after ten tumultuous days, parents were apprehensive about sending the children to the school as they alleged that nothing has changed in terms of security.

To alley their fear and apprehension, Gurgaon deputy commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh on Monday interacted with parents and students of the school and assured them on safety measures adopted since the murder of an eight-year-old student on campus.

He then announced that the school will be closed for four more days on the request of parents.

Counselling sessions were provided to students of the school at Bhondsi and the DC will request other schools to arrange similar sessions on their campuses.

I want to withdraw my sons admission from this school. He has refused to attend classes here and is very scared to visit the school premises, Madan Kumar, a software engineer, said.

The victims father also voiced concern over the school reopening in such a short notice, as the city police has written to the state government recommending that the case be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

As a layman, I feel that since the case is yet to be formally handed over to the CBI, the administration should not have taken over and announced reopening of the school on Monday. I strongly feel someone else is also involved in the case and that person will get a chance to destroy crucial pieces of evidence that could throw new light in the case. The administration should have taken consent of the CBI, as already, the school management has destroyed and tampered with crucial evidence at scene of the crime, said the father of the victim.

Taking note of the concerns voiced by the victims family, the DC has already passed instructions that the toilet where the 8-year-old was murdered and his classroom be cordoned off, so that crucial pieces of evidence arent destroyed.

We will ensure the area is not used by anyone and pieces of evidence, if any, isnt tampered with. Classes on the ground floor near the crime scene has been shifted to the first floor, Singh said.

We will soon put the safety audit of the school on our internal portal for parents. Parents will be told to post their feedback on the same, Singh said.

DC has requested parents to have some patience and assured the school will be a safe place for the students. He said the administration will ensure that parents have no complaints after three months. Parents should not take any decision in haste. We will work on the safety and security issues. Today was the first meeting and we have planned the next on September 23 in a bid to address the issues of parents, Singh said.

Read I Gurgaon: Post takeover by state, Ryan, Bhondsi to open on Monday

Exact schedule of exams will be sent to the parents within this week, he said.

The school will be on the administrations watch for three months, by which time it will look to plug all security loopholes and win back of the confidence of concerned parents.

If the district administration fails to meet the demands of parents within three months, the state will take a call on the future course. The DC also said that they will also make sure issue surrounding transportation is resolved.

If parents still feel they want to shift their wards to another school, we will definitely provide the transfer certificates, Singh said.

When I asked the management what security measures have they taken in these ten days, they asked me to be patient and said it will take another 15 days to get things in place, Swati Singh, a worried parent, said.

A school safety committee will be formed in each school and will be headed by the principal. The district administration will hold a meeting featuring representatives of all schools across the district and safety audits will be conducted in each of them, it was learnt.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Arjun Kumar Yadav, who was driving the truck attacked by alleged cow vigilantes killing dairy farmer Pehlu Khan in April, doesnt transport cattle anymore. Instead, the 23-year-old, also a key witness in the case, ferries vegetables to villages on Jaipur outskirts, incurring a monthly loss of Rs 10,000.

Yadavs family members, in Chomu town near Jaipur, said the financial loss was a small cost to pay as long as it doesnt risk their sons life.

On April 1, it was in the pickup truck owned by Yadav that Pehlu Khan was transporting cattle before he was waylaid and lynched by a mob. HT reported last week how the Rajasthan police, citing lack of evidence, gave a clean chit to all the six people named by Khan for the attack that had sparked nationwide outrage.

Yadav, had managed to escape when Khan and other dairy farmers, Azmat and Rafique, were attacked. Since then, the pickup truck remained confiscated at the Behror police station as Yadav treated the injuries that he sustained in the attack.

I got the pickup truck back last month and had to pay Rs 1.5 lakh to repair the damages. Now I am back to driving it, Yadav told HT reluctant to speak about the lynching incident.

The family said ever since the attack, Yadav hasnt set foot on the weekly cattle market from where Khan had bought the bovines that he was transporting to his native village Jaishinghpur in Haryanas Nuh.

We forbade him from transporting cattle again. Now he ferries vegetables to various villages near Jaipur. We were concerned that in spite of having permit and all the necessary documents what if he is once again attacked by gaurakshaks? said Girdhari Lal, his uncle.

Lal said this decision to stop transporting cattle has also amounted to a loss of at least Rs 10,000.

Earlier, Arjun used to transport cattle to adjacent districts near Jaipur such as Nagaur and used to earn around Rs 30,000. Now, by ferrying vegetables he earns only Rs 20,000 which is quite less but at least he is not risking his life, said Lal.

Of the Rs 20,000 Yadav pays a monthly bank instalment of Rs 16,000 to back for the Rs 4.5 lakh loan that he availed to buy the truck eight months before the attack.

Theres very little money he can save after paying the loan instalment but the life of our son is more precious than the income. We would never let him transport cattle again, his uncle Lal, said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Minister of state for home affairs Kiren Rijiju on Monday said the governments stand to deport Rohingya refugees was in the nations interest.

It is a sensitive matter. Whatever government will do, will be in nations interest, Rijiju told reporters ahead of the Supreme Court hearing on Rohingya Muslims who have fled from Myanmar and a large number of them are in India.

The apex court is hearing a plea against the governments decision to deport the refugees to Myanmar. Rijiju said the governments way forward would be based on national interest.

We will mention the same in our affidavit to be submitted in the Supreme Court, he said.

He also requested the international human rights bodies not to spread misinformation about India and said: India is a sovereign country and protecting the nation is our duty.

The UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva last week slammed India over its stand on the Rohingya crisis.
Many Rohingya refugees have links with the Islamic State and Pakistans spy agency ISI, the government told the Supreme Court on Monday, as it sought to win legal backing to deport tens of thousands of them for being a serious security threat to India.

The government also said if allowed to stay, the Rohingya refugees would exhaust natural resources meant for Indians that could culminate in hostility towards them and lead to social tension and law and order problems.

It said the plan to deport Rohingya refugees was a policy decision and the court should desist from interfering. In response, the court said it will soon take up the question of whether it has jurisdiction over the matter.

The governments argument was in response to a petition filed by two Rohingya refugees challenging any Indian decision to deport an estimated 40,000 people of the community who fled alleged persecution in Myanmar.

Many experts have questioned where India could send the Rohingya Muslims. Human Rights Watch urged India, the worlds biggest democracy, to follow the international principle of non-refoulement which prohibits sending back refugees to a place where their lives are in danger.

The United Nations says there are 16,000 registered Rohingya in India, but many more are undocumented.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra refused to issue a formal notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to know the stand of an independent body. This despite senior counsel, including Fali S Nariman  arguing in favour of Rohingyas  insisting on it.

We will see the legal position, whether we have the jurisdiction or not. We need to see what kind of jurisdiction can be invoked, the bench told the lawyers, fixing October 3 to hear the petition and a slew of intervention applications filed by both sides.

Nariman, who wanted a hearing on Friday, took the courts liberty to approach it earlier if any untoward incident takes place with the immigrants.

Government said in its affidavit that unless it took action, illegal immigrants would drain resources meant for Indian citizens, depriving them of their legitimate share.

Any indulgence shown by the highest court of the country would encourage the illegal influx of illegal migrants into our country and thereby deprive the citizens of India of their fundamental and basic human rights, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in the affidavit.

The government said many Rohingya refugees took advantage of the porous borders in the countrys east and an organised human trafficking racket had helped them procure fake identity cards such as PAN and voters ID.

Radicalised Rohingays may wreak violence on Indian Bhuddist, the government said.

Rohingya in India voiced worries that they were being unfairly tainted by the allegations and sought more understanding for their plight.

The government said India was not a signatory to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, and Protocal Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1967, and so was not obliged to follow its provisions.

Last week, the UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva slammed India over its stand on the Rohingya crisis.

Reacting to the court proceedings, the Congress party called on the government to start a wider political consultation on what it said was a sensitive matter.

Such participatory interaction with us will only help the government. A blanket approach is never helpful, party spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The government told the Supreme Court on Monday many Rohingya refugees had links with global terror outfits and allowing them to stay in India would pose a security threat to the country.

India is home to approximately 40,000 Rohingya refugees, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Rohingya, who fled to India after violence in the Western Rakhine State of Myanmar, have settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

More than 75,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmars Rakhine region since August 25 and images show Rohingya villages burnt to the ground in a clash between government forces and armed militants.

From UN condemnation to politicians, heres what has been said about the governments stand on deporting Rohingyas:

United Nations

The UN high commissioner for human rights had last week criticised India for seeking to deport Rohingyas who fled to India.

Al Hussein said he deplored New Delhis measure to deport the refugees. The minister of state for home affairs has reportedly said that because India is not a signatory to the Refugee Convention, the country can dispense with international law on the matter, together with basic human compassion, he said.

However, by virtue of customary law, its ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the obligations of due process and the universal principle of non-refoulement, India cannot carry out collective expulsions, or return people to a place where they risk torture or other serious violations.

Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister

Union minister Kiren Rijiju said last week branding India as a villain on the Rohingya refugee issue was a calibrated design to tarnish the countrys image.

This chorus of branding India as villain on Rohingya issue is a calibrated design to tarnish Indias image, the minister tweeted.

It is a sensitive matter. Whatever government will do, will be in nations interest, Rijiju told reporters on Monday.

He also requested international human rights bodies not to spread misinformation about India and said: India is a sovereign country and protecting the nation is our duty.

Amit Shah, BJP president

When questioned over the issue at a press conference on Saturday, BJP president Amit Shah said the government has made its stand clear before the Supreme Court and it is prepared to extend all help to Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar.

Mamata Banerjee, Bengal CM

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee expressed support for the Rohingya and adopted a stance contrary to the position of the Narendra Modi government.

We do support the @UN appeal to help the Rohingya people. We believe that all commoners are not terrorists. We are really concerned, Banerjee tweeted last Friday.

Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM chief

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi cited the example of refugees from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in India and berated the government over its decision to send the Rohingya Muslims back to Myanmar.

If Taslima Nasreen can stay here, why cant Rohingyas? If Taslima can be the prime ministers sister, cant Rohingyas become his brothers? Owaisi said, while addressing a gathering last week in Hyderabad.
BJP president Amit Shah told a special court on Monday that he had seen former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani in the state assembly and later at a government hospital the day deadly riots broke out in parts of the city in February 2002.

Deposing as a defence witness for Kodnani, who is accused of inciting a mob that killed 11 people in the citys Naroda Gam area, Shah testified that he saw her in the assembly building in Gandhinagar between 8.308.40 am on February 28, 2002.

Shah said he saw her again later the same morning at the civil hospital in Sola, Ahmedabad. I reached there between 9.30 and 9.45 am, he told the court. HT has a copy of his deposition and subsequent cross examination.

Shah testified that he saw Kodnani at the hospital but did not specify when. There was chaos. There were many leaders present. I tried to go inside the post-mortem room but I was not allowed, Shah told the court.

I was talking to the relatives of the deceased. I saw Mayaben there.

Shah said he left the hospital between 11.15 and 11.30 am. Shah and Kodnani were escorted out by police together.

The BJP chief told the court he did not know where Kodnani was between the time he first saw her in the assembly building and again at the hospital, or where she went after being escorted out of the hospital, defence lawyer Amit Patel told Hindustan Times.

The state assembly and the hospital are about 23 km apart. The prosecution accuses Kodnani of leading the rioters at Naroda Gam between 9 am and 10am.

Riots broke out across Gujarat after a bogie of the Sabarmati Express was set on fire at Godhra on February 27, 2002. The blaze killed 59 Hindus, mostly Karsevaks or volunteers returning from Ayodhya, where rival Hindu and Muslim groups are locked in a decades-old dispute over a religious site.

The train fire sparked three days of reprisal attacks across the state that left about 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, dead. Both leaders had visited the hospital where the bodies of the victims of the train fire had been brought.

After Shahs hour-long testimony, the defence and prosecution lawyers differed on its interpretation.

Amit Shah has testified in favour of Kodnani, said a second defence lawyer Chetan Shah.

But prosecution lawyer Shamsad Pathan contended that Kodnanis presence in the assembly and later at the hospital didnt necessarily absolve her.

Amit Shah told the court Maya Kodnani was in the assembly in the morning and then was seen leaving the hospital around 11.30am. This proves she was present at Naroda Gam when the violence happened, said Pathan.

Kodnani, the women and child welfare minister in the then Narendra Modi government in Gujarat, has already been sentenced to life in prison for a separate case of rioting in Ahmedabads Naroda Patiya area, a verdict she has challenged. Shes been on bail since 2014.

Asked why he did not depose earlier in the Naroda Patiya riots trial, Shah said he wasnt called to testify. The prosecution had argued that Shah did not turn up despite the special court asking anyone with knowledge of the case to depose.

Defence lawyer Shah said 57 witnesses had deposed for the defence side and no more witness is required to appear in the court.

For the prosecution, 187 witnesses deposed. Pathan said the final arguments are expected to begin from September 25.

Last week, the court summoned Shah as a witness following a request by Kodnani to prove that she was not present at Naroda Gam when riots broke out there.

In 2009, the Supreme Court set up six special courts to speed up trials in cases related to the 2002 Gujarat riots, among the countrys worst religious violence.

Reacting to Shahs testimony, the opposition said the issue should be left to courts. There is a legal procedure. It does not matter what a person says about another. Witnesses give statements on affidavits... On such serious issues, we are of the view that action should be taken with utmost care and caution, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said.

(With input from agencies)

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
After an encouraging start in Sundays bye-elections to a parliamentary seat in Lahore that was held by former premier Nawaz Sharif, the political party formed by the Jamaat-ud-Dawah has signalled its intention to contest Pakistans general election next year.

The Milli Muslim League (MML), which has not been recognised by the Election Commission, came in at third place in the bye-polls, behind the ruling PML-N and the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf.

Sheikh Yaqoob, the independent candidate in the bye-elections who was backed by the JuD, told media that the MML will field candidates in every constituency of the country in next years election.

In August, the JuD announced it was launching the MML. Yaqoob wanted to contest the bye-elections on the MML ticket but could not do so as the Election Commission is yet to register it as a political party.

Yaqoob was placed on the US treasury sanctions list of designated terrorist leaders in 2012.

We have got a very good response in NA-120 (constituency). It was our first election and people have welcomed us, Yaqoob told the media.

We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies  India, the US and Israel  and at the same time helps them in solving their basic livelihood problems.

The JuD formed the MML after its chief Hafiz Saeed was placed under house arrest in Lahore. Saeed and four aides  Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain  were detained under the Anti-Terrorism Act on January 30.

The JuD was declared a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The US has offered a $10 million bounty for Saaed for his alleged role in the Mumbai attacks.
Bihar director general of police PK Thakur said on Monday that the Haryana Police has not contacted Bihar cops, seeking help for arrest of jailed Dera Sacha Sauda chiefs adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan, who is believed to be hiding in Nepal currently.

Several districts of Bihar share international borders with the Himalayan nation.

Thakur also refuted reports that the state police has information on the whereabouts of Honeypreet through the states districts adjoining the Nepal border.

So far, Haryana Police has not approached Bihar Police in this connection, Thakur said.

Honeypreet Insan tops the list of 43 people wanted by the Haryana Police in connection with incidents of violence that followed Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs conviction in two rape cases.

A senior police official at the police headquarters here said there was no information with the state police that Honeypreet was seen in areas along the Nepal border. All such reports are baseless.

He said Bihar shares nearly 700-km porous border with Nepal.

For the last 10 days, reports have been appearing in the local as well as national media that Honeypreet might have crossed over to Nepal through Bihar.
An affidavit filed by the government in the Supreme Court says Rohingya refugees are a security threat and they must be deported to Myanmar, a stand that is likely to rile human rights activists.

Here are the top 5 reasons why the Narendra Modi government wants Rohingyas deported:

1. The continued stay of Rohingyas, who number about 40,000 in India, has serious national security ramifications.

2. The government has security inputs indicating links of Rohingya refugees with Pakistans ISI, the Islamic State and other extremists groups that want to spread communal and sectarian violence in India. Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat.

3. The Rohingyas are indulging in illegal/anti-national activities i.e. mobilisation of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake/fabricated Indian identity documents such as PAN and voter ID cards for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking.

4. The fragile north-eastern corridor may become further destabilised in case of stridency of Rohingya militancy, which the Central government has found to be growing, if permitted to continue.

5.There is also a serious possibility of violence erupting against the Buddhists, who are Indian citizens and live in the country, by the radicalised Rohingyas.
A court in Keralas Kochi on Monday rejected the bail plea of Malayalam superstar Dileep, who has been in judicial custody for more than two months in connection with the abduction and sexual assault on a popular woman actor.

This was the fourth time the actors bail plea has been rejected. Before this, the Angamally (Kochi) judicial magistrate court refused to entertain his plea once and the Kerala high court twice.

While rejecting the bail plea the court agreed with the contention of the prosecution that if he was released at this juncture he could influence witnesses and weaken the case. The prosecution said the case was at a critical stage and would file a chargesheet within 90 days.

Dileep was released for two hours earlier this month to perform his fathers death anniversary rites on the condition that he will not use a mobile phone, follow the investigating officers instructions, and will not misuse courts order.

The actor, charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code including criminal conspiracy, has been lodged in a jail in his hometown of Aluva since his arrest on July 10 in connection with the case.

The 31-year-old actor was returning from a film shoot on February 17 when she was allegedly abducted by a gang of criminals and sexually assaulted in a moving car in Kochi.

The assailants allegedly recorded the assault on their mobile phones and threatened to release the clip if she dared to approach the police. During the attack, the main accused  Pulsar Suni  allegedly hinted they were committing the crime at somebody elses behest.

She lodged a complaint with the police, who arrested all the accused allegedly involved in the crime.

The special investigation team says Suni was allegedly involved in at least 20 criminal cases who reportedly admitted that many actors used his service to settle scores. The SIT is now looking into two similar attacks.

Another woman actor had said there was a similar attempt to abduct her by the same gang but it was foiled after her husband intervened.

Last Saturday, Dileeps wife and actor Kavya Madhavan filed an application for an anticipatory bail in the Kerala high court. In her plea, Madhavan alleged the team investigating the case was totally biased, partisan, and ill-motivated.

She said the officers in the probe team made open threats of arraying her as an accused to cover up lacunas in the unfounded allegations against her husband Dileep and intimidate everyone associated with him.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, on Monday, expressed his in principle agreement withprime minister Narendra Modis idea of holding simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly polls, but ruled out pre-mature assembly election in Bihar, along with the Lok Sabha general elections, in 2019.

Assembly elections in Bihar are due in September-October 2020. However, a remark by Bihar JD (U) president Basistha Narayan Singh had set off speculation that the ruling JD (U) may prefer to hold the elections a year earlier, to coincide with the 2019 LS poll.

Backing Centres one nation one election idea, Singh had, on Tuesday, said that the party was okay with the idea and was ready for snap polls in 2019 to implement the idea of holding synchronised elections in the country.

It is a good idea. I approve the idea of holding simultaneous elections for all constitutional bodies, right from Lok Sabha, assembly, local bodies and panchayats, he said, while pointing out that the roll out of Niti Ayogs suggestion, to ensure minimum campaign-mode disruption to governance, was to start from 2024.

But a section of the media started interpreting the state JD (U) presidents remark to mean that the party was gearing up for a snap poll in 2019 itself, the chief minister said, in response to a question whether the state was heading towards a pre-mature election.

The chief minister said the idea of simultaneous elections was not a new one.Separate elections started taking place in the country only after 1967. Once simultaneous polls become the norm, it will save expenses, provide ruling party adequate time to perform and go to the voters for seeking mandate on the basis of its work, he said.

Kumar, however, had a rider. There should be an inbuilt mechanism for ensuring the completion of the five-year tenure of a state government so that it gets adequate time to deliver upon the people[s expectations, he said.

Though Kumar tried to put all speculation to rest, the JD (U) state presidents remark had the requisite ammunition to fire the popular imagination. Sources said having the JD (U) on board for vigorously pursuing the idea was one of the key points for the BJP to warm up to the JD (U), which had supported demonetisation, the army[s surgical strike and NDAs presidential candidate.

Now, with the BJP, unfolding its mission 350 (winning 350 seats in the Lok Sabha in 2019), the JD (U) leadership is only too aware that it will enjoy a equal partner status only till 2019 LS poll outcome.

Once the saffron-brigade is anywhere near its target-mark, it will not allow regional allies to extract a fair share of seats during 2020 assembly elections. In that case, the sealing the deal in 2019 for centre and state elections seems to a plausible proposition.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Tamil Nadu government on Monday told the Supreme Court that there were no fresh anti-NEET agitations in the state after it was banned by the top court on September 8.

The top court had made NEET mandatory for admission to undergraduate and post-graduate medical courses.

The Attorney General KK Venugopal told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice DY Chandrachud that following the directions of the top court on September 8 banning all anti-NEET protests, the Chief Secretary of the state asked all the district collectors to immediately comply with the top courts order.

The AG told the court that there were no reports from the district authorities about any fresh anti-NEET agitation. As AG made his submission, the bench asked the Tamil Nadu government to file an affidavit to that affect.

The court directed the next hearing of the matter on October 8.

The top court had on September 8, on a petition by advocate G.S. Mani, banned all anti-NEET agitations in the state.
Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu wrote to Union home minister Rajnath Singh Monday expressing his states inability to accept the Centres decision to grant citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees residing in the northeastern state.

Reiterating concerns of the people, the CM said that the issue is of deep emotional concern and the state is not ready to accept any infringement of the constitutional protection bestowed on the states tribals.

Khandu said Arunachal Pradesh is a predominantly tribal state to which the Constitution has provided special safeguards to protect the rights of the indigenous people from the outsiders.

The people of my state.want to ensure that the ethnic composition and the special rights enjoyed by the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh are safeguarded at all cost, Khandu wrote to Rajnath.

The Centre had recently decided to grant citizenship to nearly one lakh Chakma and Hajong refugees who have been residing in northeastern states for over 50 years now.

The decision had evoked sharp reactions in Arunachal Pradesh, where nearly 50,000 of the refugees who fled from Bangladesh in 1964 reside. Chakmas are Buddhists while Hajongs are Hindus.

The Centres decision to grant citizenship follows a 2015 Supreme Court order.

But the refugees wont have any land rights and would need to have an inner line permit to reside in Arunachal Pradesh, where there are restrictions on entry of outsiders.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Heavy overnight exchange of fire, including shelling, continued for the fourth consecutive day between Indian and Pakistani troops along the international border in Arnia sub-sector of RS Pura sector in Jammu district.

BSFs Jammu frontier DIG, Dharmender Pareekh said the Pakistani Rangers started unprovoked firing in Arnia around 9 pm on Sunday, and later resorted to mortar shelling, prompting Indian forces to retaliate strongly.

The gun-duel lasted till 5.30 am on Monday, he said, adding that nobody was killed or injured in the exchange of fire.

All schools within the 5 km of the border in Arnia were shut on Monday.

The exchange of fire began on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday when a sniper bullet by Pakistani forces killed constable Brijendra Bahadur Singh.

A woman named Ratna Devi died and five others were injured in Pakistani shelling in Arnia on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

Dozens of livestock have been killed and injured while many houses were damaged in the shelling.

While the PDP-BJP government in Jammu and Kashmir has promised to construct 4,000 community bunkers and 20,000 individual bunkers along the Indo-Pak border, villagers, including children, remain a sitting duck for the Pakistani firing.

Pak Accuses India of Unprovoked Firing

Pakistan armys publicity wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) posted on its website that the director general of Pakistan Rangers (Punjab), major general Azhar Naveed Hayat visited the working boundary at Phokhlian sector where unprovoked ceasefire violation by Indian troops had martyred two innocent civilians.

The DG appreciated the response by Rangers and assured the affected families that it would respond befittingly against Indian attacks.

Indian BSF targeted the civilian population in Sialkot border villages Jarwaal, Joiyaan, Anula, Harpal, Salaankey, Wahga, Akhanor, Sangiyaal, Umeraanwali (Harpal sector) and Charwah, Behlaadpur, Merjakey, Akhnur and Dhamala villages (Charwah Sector) along the Sialkot working boundary by using the small and big mortar shells, Pakistani daily, The Nation quoted local officials as saying on Saturday.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The mysterious disappearance of Honeypreet Insaan, adopted [daughter of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim, since she accompanied him till jail following his conviction and sentencing, has led to an intelligence agencies alert on the Indo-Nepal border.

The intelligence agencies are seized with the possibility Honeypreet might have slipped into neighbouring Nepal.

With Bihar sharing a 729 km-long, porous border with Nepal, along Sitamarhi, Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul, Madhubani, East Champaran and West Champaran districts. the focus has shifted as much to this part of the country as to the Himalayan republic.

In her thirties, Honeypreet had accompanied the Dera head on way to the special CBI court in Panchkula for the pronouncement of the verdict in the 15-year-old rape case. She also travelled along with him in a special chopper which took them to Rohtak from Panchkula after the conviction.

After that, she went missing. The Haryana police have issued a lookout notice against Honeypreet, tipped to be Dera chiefs successor as head of the enormously wealthy seat but central agencies suspect she may have sneaked into Nepal.

SSB IG of Patna Frontier Chanchal Shekhar told HT on Monday that instructions had been issued at all border out posts (BOPs) to keep a strict vigil for women wearing veils or burqas.

We are constantly in a state of alert, as the porous border is always vulnerable to the activities of criminals and fugitives. Though there is no specific input, we are aware of the sensitive nature of the matter at hand, he added.

Sources maintained that the Haryana police had enquired from the Nepal Police and also from officers of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), deployed on different border out-posts (BOPs) about Honeypreet, but could not get any clue thus far.

Bihar director general of police (DGP) Pramod Kumar Thakur told mediapersons that there was no written communication between Bihar and Haryana police regarding Honeypreet so far.

The police personnel in seven districts of the state bordering Nepal had been put on maximum alert to frustrate any attempt by Honeypreet to escape to Nepal, said an official..

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Last rites of war hero Marshal of Indian Air Force Arjan Singh were performed with gun salute and fly past at Brar Square in Delhis Cantonment area on Monday.

The Indian Army gave a 17-gun salute to the Marshal, who died on Saturday following a cardiac arrest at the age of 98. Marshal Arjan Singh had led the Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan conflict. The IAF officers sounded the bugle before the cremation at the Delhi Cantonment area.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, IAF chief BS Dhanoa, chief of naval staff Sunil Lanba, army chief Bipin Rawat, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, senior BJP leader LK Advani, and several former service chiefs, relatives, and friends were also present.

The IAFs Sukhoi-30 fighters in the missing man formation along with the Mi-17V5 choppers in insignia formation made the flypast paying their last respects to the national hero.

Fly past held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/fIYWf15TyM  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Arvind Singh, son of Arjan Singh, lit the pyre after Sikh priests performed religious rituals.

In the morning, the mortal remains of Marshal of Indian Air Force Arjan Singh were taken to Brar Square from his 7A Kautilya Marg residence.

The home ministry had said the national flag will fly at half mast in all government buildings in New Delhi on Monday in his honour.

#WATCH Live: Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. https://t.co/oBXshXJDsJ  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, a state funeral will be accorded and national flag will fly half-mast on the day of the funeral (September 18) in Delhi on all buildings where it is flown regularly, a home ministry spokesperson said on Sunday.

Singh was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the IAF when he was only 44 years old, a task he carried out with elan. He was the chief of the IAF when it found itself at the forefront of the 1965 conflict against Pakistan.

Gun salute & fly past held at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/28xxEpOj4I  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday evening visited the house of Marshal to pay his tributes.

Soon after returning from his tour to Gujarat where he dedicated the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the nation, Modi reached Arjan Singhs 7A Kautilya Marg residence, where he laid a wreath, and paid tributes to the legend.

Visited the residence of Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh to pay tributes to him & extended condolences to his family members. pic.twitter.com/rpzbavzj5z  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 17, 2017

He also met his family members and wrote a condolence message.
The conviction of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim for raping two women has raised concerns among people in Madhya Pradesh, more than 1,000 km away from Sirsa, whose students study in a school run by the Dera sect.

Residents in Budhni, Sehore district, are worried about the future of their daughters who are students of Shah Satnam Ji Girls School.

The school, established in 2007 over 66 acres of land, has 433 students enrolled in it.

Many now want to send their children to another school and had approached the Shah Satnam administration for the transfer certificate but the latter refused, prompting parents to lodge a complaint with the district education department.

People now ask questions about the school. If my daughter continues with her studies there, it will malign her image, said a woman who did not wish to be named to keep the identity of her daughter secret.

Read more: Over 4,200 people recommended rape convict Ram Rahim for Padma award

Another parent said she was unhappy with the activities at the school and has vowed not to send her daughter there anymore. In the name of science exhibition, the students were taken to Bhopal and were shown a movie of Dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim in a city mall a few months ago. The students were asked to bring Rs 300. I was upset with the school staff for this. With Gurmeet now exposed for his sins and judged a rape convict, I want to shift my daughter to some other school, she said.

In the name of science exhibition, the students were taken to Bhopal and were shown a movie of Dera chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim in a city mall a few months ago.

The school had remained shut for a few days after the Dera chiefs conviction.

A Class 11 student, judging the school as the best in our area and who doesnt want to quit, however, is worried about her future and isnt sure how the school administration will continue operating the school.

A team of education department officials went to the school as part of its inquiry into parents complaints.

Block education officer GP Meena said, We didnt find any irregularities in the school. Its a girls school and all the staff members are female and outsiders cannot gain unauthorised entry. We talked to at least 200 students and no one said anything negative about the school.

The officer added that the school administration has nevertheless been asked to get all the teachers background verified by the police and also form a committee to which students can report complaints of sexual harassment, if any.

Unlike a raid on other premises of the Dera sect in Haryana, the district administration didnt receive any such instruction for Budhni.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Tamil Nadu assembly speaker on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs supporting sidelined AIADMK leader TTV Dinakaran, just two days before a high court deadline for a floor test by chief minister Edapaddi Palaniswami.

The decision by assembly speaker P Dhanpal brings down the magic number in the 234-member House to 110 as against 117 before the disqualification, in the case of a floor test.

The Palaniswami government claims support of 114 MLAs, who had attended a general council meeting that ousted jailed leader Sasikala and Dinakaran from party posts.

The decision was immediately challenged by the Dinakaran camp.

P Vetrivel, a senior MLA supporting Dinakaran, said the order was patently illegal and we will challenge this in the court.

The speaker has done this disqualification so that the government wins the floor test. The decision is unfair as well as illegal as 19 MLAs had given in writing to the governor that they had lost faith in the EPS as the chief minister, he added.

The opposition DMK also challenged the speakers decision.

A Sarvanan said it was precisely to prevent this that we had moved the high court asking for a direction on holding floor test.

We had reports that the government would disqualify the MLAs at 10am and hold the floor test at 10.30am so that no time would be given for challenging this, he added.

MK Stalin, the leader of opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly, criticised the speaker for disqualifying the MLAs, saying he has done this deliberately to reduce majority of the house.

However, the Madras high court has stayed any floor test till Wednesday, when it takes up a plea filed by the DMK and Dinakaran camp MLA P Vetrivel.

Following the revolt of 19 party MLAs against Palaniswami, they were all initially put up at a resort in Puducherry.They later shifted to a resort in Coorg in Karnataka and are since then staying there.

One of them shifted camps to support Palaniswami later.
Uttar Pradesh government has come out with a slew of guidelines for peaceful and smooth celebrations of Durga Puja, Dussehra and Muharram that are about a fortnight away.

The guidelines include a ban on use of disc jockeys (DJs) during the celebrations, restriction on use of loudspeakers, stipulation of procession routes and heights of Durga idols and tazias that are carried in processions during Muharram.

They were chalked out at a high-level law-and-order review meeting chief minister Yogi Adityanath had with senior officials of his government on Saturday evening, sources said.

The four-day Durga puja celebrations begin on September 26. Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be observed on September 30, while Muharram falls on October 1.

Maintaining law and order during the festival season will be an acid test for the Adityanaths BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in the communally sensitive west and eastern parts of the state.

Disputes over use of loudspeakers or taking a particular route for procession between Hindu and Muslim communities during these festivals sparked several communal clashes in the past.

To avoid recurrence of such incidents procession routes for the immersion of Durga idols and taking out tazias will be fixed by the state government and the organisers will be accordingly informed, said an official privy to the discussions in the meeting.

Use of loudspeakers will also be strictly regulated as per rules set up by the district administrations.

During the about hour-long video conferencing, the chief minister collected feedbacks from officers of sensitive Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Allahabad, Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, Meerut and Bareilly ranges.

Usually principal secretary (home) and DGP give instructions to the district administration through video conferencing before major events or festivities, but this time chief minister himself conveyed the directives.

He directed them to remain alert for the occasions and hold meetings of peace committees at police stations by September 21.

The officers were asked not to allow any deviation from the traditions being followed in the past during the celebrations.

Chief minister also directed officials to form five-member committees comprising officials from the district administrations and members of the organisation committees of puja and Muharram to coordinate with the police.

He also asked them to hold meetings with organisers before the start of the processions.

Height of Durga idols and tazias will be fixed by the administration to ensure that no tree was cut, or structure demolished, on the route of the respective processions, the official added.

The chief minister urged officials to motivate puja organisers to immerse idols in ponds instead of rivers to avoid river pollution.

He also ordered a crackdown on anti-social elements to check eve teasing and harassment of women during Ram Leela programmes or near puja pandals or fairs organised on the occasion.

Intelligence units should provide regular feedbacks to the administration over law and order, the official said quoting Adityanath.

He also district magistrates and superintendents of police to maintain cleanliness along with security at puja pandals and tazia sites.
BJP president Amit Shah on Monday appeared as a defence witness for Maya Kodnani, telling a special court that the former Gujarat minister was at the state assembly and a government hospital when the 2002 riots broke out in Ahmedabad.

Kodnani stands accused of inciting a mob that killed 11 people in the citys Naroda Gam on February 28, 2002.

Once a rising star in the Gujarat BJP, Kodnani, a gynaecologist by profession, was elevated to the minister of state for women and child development in the Gujarat government in 2007. In 2009, Kodnani was forced to resign after her arrest in the separate Naroda Patya rioting case.

Early life

A report in the Indian Express describes Kodnanis early life, studying in a Gujarati-medium school founded by her father in Deesa. After school, she enrolled in the Baroda Medical College to pursue MBBS, followed by a diploma in gynaecology and obstetrics. At the same time, she joined Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, the RSS womens wing.

She later moved to Ahmedabad and set up the Shivam Maternity Hospital in Kubernagar in Naroda.

Political career

Her first brush with politics came in 1995, when the BJP fielded her as their candidate from Saijpur ward in Ahmedabad civic elections. The BJP won and Kodnani was later elevated to the chairman of the standing committee.

In 1998, Kodnani was elected as the BJP MLA from Naroda. She was also the general secretary of Gujarat Pradesh BJP Mahila Morcha and later, from 1998 to 2000, its chief.

In 2000, she became the first woman president of the Ahmedabad BJP, a position she retained till 2005.

Narodya Patya and Naroda Gam massacres

The 2002 riots in happened during Kodnanis stint as BJPs MLA from Naroda. She was convicted for instigating rioters and orchestrating the Naroda Patya massacre on February 28, 2002, where 97 people, including women and children were brutally murdered by a mob led by the Bajrang Dal.

Kodnani is also accused of instigating the Naroda Gam riots, where 11 people died, and of firing a pistol and distributing arms that she had transported to Naroda in her car.

After the riots

Kodnanis ascent to power continued after the riots. Mentored by BJP patriarch LK Advani, she won the 2002 elections with a huge majority. In 2007, she was appointed as the MoS for women and child development.

The case against Kodnani

A Supreme Court-appointed special investigation Team (SIT) made Kodnani an accused in the Naroda Patiya case. She was declared an absconder after she failed to respond to SITs requests for a deposition.

Kodnani was arrested in March 2009, following which she resigned as minister of state for women and child development.

In August 2012, a special SIT court convicted and sentenced Kodnani to life, describing her as the kingpin of the massacre.

In 2014, a Gujarat high court accepted Kodnanis plea for regular bail on health grounds.
The breakaway faction of the Janata Dal (United) hopes to rustle up an alliance with the Congress, Left parties and the outfit led by Hardik Patel in order to jointly oppose the BJP in the Gujarat assembly elections scheduled in December.

I met senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel yesterday to discuss the issue. Sharad Yadav  the patron of the splinter group  has been in touch with other leaders including those of theLeft. The broad framework of the alliance should be ready within a week, said Chotubhai Vasava, theacting president of the breakaway group.

At a meeting on Sunday, the Yadav-faction of the party declared Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumars elevation as the party president as null and void and elected the six-term legislator from Gujarat in his place. Asked about Kumars status in the party, Vasava said he had left the party.

The breakaway group has also convened a meeting of the party national council on October 8to formulate the future course of action.

Following Kumars decision to dump the Mahagathbandhan partners in Bihar to align with the BJP, the ginger group led by Yadav has been claiming to be the real JD (U) in arepresentation to the Election Commission.

The official faction has also made its case for the party name and symbol before the Commission, while also having approached the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman, seeking removal of Yadav and Ali Anwar Ansari for anti-party activities.

We have sought time for four weeks from the Election Commission to present the facts, Ansari told HT.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A 62-year-old Jodhpur businessman was shot outside his showroom on Sunday night. He died in hospital during treatment. The murder sparked protests by businessmen in Jodhpur.

Unidentified men on a motorcycle shot Vasudev Israni, who runs an electronics showroom in Sardarpura area, the police said. He was rushed to MG Hospital where he passed away.

Vasudevs showroom is just 100 metre from the Sardarpura police station.

Vasudevs son, Anil Israni, said that his father had also been attacked on June 19 this year. A man wearing a helmet had barged into the showroom and fired shots but my father had escaped the attack, he said.

Vasudev was given police protection after the attack. The armed guard left a little early on Sunday, leaving my father alone during the attack, Anil added.

Police said that Vasudev has got at least four extortion calls after the attack in June. The callers threatened to kill him if he did not pay.

The murder sparked protests in the market on Monday. Shops on the Sardarpura C Road did not open, and traders shouted slogans against the police, demanding immediate arrest of Vasudevs killers. Traders staged a sit-in at Jaljog Circle and blocked traffic.

BJP MLA from Jodhpur City, Kailash Bhansali, faced peoples ire when he visited the businessmans house to pay condolence.

Jodhpur MP and Union minister of state for agriculture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, questioned the functioning of the police and said that repeated shootings in the city in the last few months has caused resentment amongst the people against the police.

Shekhawat said that he will speak with the chief minister for a review of the Jodhpur polices functioning.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot said that the law and order situation in the state had worsened in last few months and added that the Jodhpur police have failed to curb crime.
An 18-year-old student was allegedly gang-raped by the director of a private school and a teacher of the same institution in Sikar district of Rajasthan and was then forced to undergo an abortion in August when she became pregnant, police said on Monday.

The family of the student, who is now admitted in a hospital in Jaipur, registered a case at the Ajeetgarh police station on Sunday.

In their complaint, the family members have said that the accused used to call the victim to the school for extra classes, where they allegedly gang-raped her. The victim started experiencing stomach pains last month, said Kushal Singh, circle officer, Neem Ka Thana.

The police said that after going to a doctor the family discovered that the she was pregnant. The students father is a farmer.

Preliminary investigation suggests that an abortion of the girl was carried out last month at a hospital in Shahpura with the family members alleging that the two accused were also present on the occasion and somehow conspired to get the abortion done, said Manglaram Ola, station house officer, Ajeetgarh.

The two accused have been identified as Jagdish Yadav, the director of the school and teacher Jagat Singh Gurjar, said the police.

The family members have alleged that the two accused tricked them into believing that an operation was being conducted whereas actually it was an abortion, said Surendra Kumar Dikshit, additional superintendent of police, Sikar.

Officials said that following the abortion, the condition of the student deteriorated and she was shifted to a hospital in Jaipur on September 7.

A case of gang-rape has been registered against both the accused who are currently absconding and we have initiated a search for them, said circle officer Singh.

The police said that the statement of the victim will be recorded when her condition improves.

We have recorded the statement of two doctors at the hospital in Shahpura and learnt that the family members of the victim were also present on the occasion. Further details will emerge as the probe progresses, said Singh, who is the investigating officer in the case.
In a shocking incident, Haridas Roy, a 58-year-old constable, was arrested for allegedly raping a minor inside a police barrack in Dinhata in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal. The girl is class 4 student.

The incident happened on September 6. Roy was arrested on Saturday.

Read: Woman gang-raped in Bengal, brutalised for refusing to continue affair

The last such atrocity by a policeman in Bengal was in 1992 when Nilkamal Ghosh, a constable, along with two others, were found guilty by a court for raping a pavement dweller within Phoolbagan police station in Kolkata. Ghosh was given imprisonment for life.

Roy was immediately suspended from the police force. He was arrested and produced at a district court. The culprit will not be spared, Cooch Behar district police superintendent, Anoop Jaiswal told HT on Monday.

Trinamool Congress legislator from Dinhata assembly constituency, Udayan Guha said that the crime was committed within the police barracks.

Read: West Bengal: Quest for justice costs rape victims husband his life

The victim, who is 11 years old, was silent in the first few days due to shock. Later she revealed the atrocity to her mother. Finally, on September 16 evening, the culprit was arrested. He was produced at a district court on September 17, which sent him to 14 days in jail custody, Guha said.

The victim was taken for counselling on Monday. She is supposed to undergo the medical test after the counselling.

The victims mother, a widow, runs a small eatery near the police barrack at Dinhata town, more than 700 km from Kolkata. The victim used to study at a local school and help her mother in running the eatery. The police personnel residing at the barrack were regular customers of the eatery.

District police sources said that on the morning of September 6, the girl went to the barrack to deliver bread and vegetable curry. Roy pounced on her, dragged her to a room and raped her.

When the victim informed her mother about the incident, she first went to the police barrack. But Roy threatened them and asked them not to reveal it to anybody. Then she went to the teachers of the school where her daughter studied. Eventually, with the help of the teachers, she filed a complaint at Dinhata Police station on September 16, said a district police officer.
A class 9 student died after allegedly being pushed from the third floor while in school, in Deoria on Monday.

A student of Modern City Montessori School in Nehru Nagar, the girl died while being taken to the hospital.

The childs father said she told him someone had pushed her.

I received a call from the school authorities who informed me that my daughter had suffered some injuries .They asked me to reach the district hospital. When I reached there, she was referred to the medical college .On the way, she told me that somebody had pushed her off the building, he said.

She had apparently gone to the third floor to use the toilet there.

Police are on the look out for some teachers and the principal of the school who absconded after the incident. A case has been registered under Section 302 against unidentified people based on a complaint from the victims father, superintendent of police Rajeev Malhotra said.

The incident comes at a time schools are being scrutinised for their security measures after a class 2 student was found murdered inside a toilet in Gurgaons Ryan International School in Haryana.
To prevent water pollution after idol immersion, a group of six artists from Nadia district of West Bengal have come up with a novel idea to decorate Durga idols using clothes, jewellery etc made from mud. This would be done without comprising with the aesthetics. Their eco-friendly product for the forthcoming Durga puja is finding many takers.

According to one of the artists Joy Mukherji, the idols adorned with clothes and other decorative items made from mud take more time to prepare as compared to conventional ones and hence are slightly costly.

We use only eco-friendly material in making these idols, which include water colour instead of synthetic colour, straw, bamboo and mud. Each detail of the mud idol has to match the entire composition, which takes more time than idols on which cloth and jewellery is used for decoration. The Puja Committees here in Allahabad are finding it a novel idea for addressing the issue of river pollution, he said.

These artists arrived nearly four months back in Allahabad and started making idols since then in Tagore Town area. A 5-feet high eco-friendly idol would cost around Rs 15,000 while an 8-feet high idol would cost around Rs 32,000. The traditional ones on the other hand cost Rs 10,000 and Rs 25,000 respectively.

It may be mentioned that synthetic paint, clothes and other items used for decorating Durga idols are a major cause of river pollution despite a number of efforts in the light of Allahabad High Court order that have paved way for immersions being held in artificially built ponds under the supervision of district administration.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Allahabad high court on Monday asked the Centre and Uttar Pradesh government to file a report by next month on how they were planning to tackle the menace of encephalitis disease in Gorakhpur.

The bench comprising chief justice DB Bhosale and justice Yashwant Varma asked the governments to file their action plans by October 6, the next date of hearing in the cases pertaining to BRD Medical College deaths last month.

The court was hearing several PILs which sought a judicial inquiry into the incident and speedy conviction of the guilty.

Over 30 children had died at BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur  which is represented by chief minister Yogi Adityanath in Lok Sabha  in 48 hours (August 9-11) allegedly due to lack of oxygen supply.

Petitioners have alleged negligence by the doctors, who have been accused of not clearing long-pending dues to the oxygen supplier. The petitioners also claimed that though children die of Japanese encephalitis in Gorakhpur every year, no concrete step has been taken to ensure its prevention.

The court had earlier directed the member-secretary of the state legal services authority to visit the BRD Medical College hospital and prepare a detailed report on infrastructure and medical facilities available for patients in the hospital along with photographs of various wards.

Earlier, a probe committee constituted by the state government also submitted its report in a sealed cover.
Chief minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday by cutting a 67 kg laddoo cake in Varanasi, the PMs Lok Sabha constituency, on Sunday.

He appealed to people to make Varanasi the worlds cleanest city by joining the Swachh Bharat campaign.

Adityanath was addressing a felicitation ceremony organised for safai mitras at the cultural complex.

Kashi is known as a cultural and spiritual city around the world. It is the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who started the Swachh Bharat mission to make every city, every village, and every street clean. Please connect with the cleanliness drive to make Kashi the worlds cleanest city, Yogi said.

He said it would be great if the cleanliness drive turned into a public campaign here.

He said he was quite pleased to find himself among the safai mitras whose interest his government was committed to safeguarding.

He blamed previous governments for ignoring interests of the poor and framing policies to appease a community for votes.

However, the Modi government made several schemes for the welfare of poor, farmers and sanitation workers, he said.

He mentioned the Stand- up India scheme started by the PM for the welfare of the scheduled castes and the scheduled tribes.

Under the Stand-up India scheme, a bank branch has to advance loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore at easy installments to two people each of the SC/ST communities in their respective areas, he said.

Adityanath also said there were 16,525 bank branches in the state. If each branch provided loans to two such people, around 33,000 families could be made happy, he said.

He also said the centre and his government launched various schemes for the welfare of the poor.

The Central Coalfields Limited (Ranchi) organised the felicitation ceremony in Varanasi.

The chief minister lauded the CCL for planting indigenous species of saplings, including mango, neem, banyan and peepal, in over 200 villages in Varanasi under the guidance of CCL chairman-cum-managing director Gopal Singh.

He said the move was a source of inspiration for other public enterprises. The CCL has made around 35,000 saplings of these species available to locals in 75 villages under three developmental blocksKashi Vidyapeeth, Arajiline and Sevapuri.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati is likely to motivate anti-BJP voters to support the blue brigade by playing Dalit-Muslim card in a public rally in Meerut on Monday.

Besides attacking the Centre and the state government, Mayawati may also ask the party cadre to gear up for the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

The BSP chief will address her first public meeting in Meerut after the partys defeat in the 2017 assembly election. She will also address meetings in other parts of the state in future.

The BSP has launched its campaign from west UP which has been its stronghold. Since late 90s, the BSP had been winning maximum seats in the assembly and Lok Sabha election from this region with the support of Jatav and Muslims.

In 2012 assembly election, the SP gained foothold in the area but the BJP made inroads into SP-BSP vote bank after Muzaffarnagar riots.

The upsurge of Bhim Sena during the caste conflict in Saharanpur became a matter of concern for the BSP leadership. Mayawati visited the spot to ensure Dalits do not switch sides to the Sena.

With the show of strength in the rally, the BSP will send across the message that it enjoys the support of the people and will thwart the plans of rival parties to make inroads into her vote bank.

Before the launch of the BSPs campaign for Lok Sabha election, five senior leaders raised the banner of revolt spoiling Mayawatis plan to keep the flock together.

As she knew that the BSP polled 20% votes in the assembly election, Mayawati called upon the party leaders to build a coalition of Dalit- Muslim-Backward caste ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Mayawati resigned from the Rajya Sabha on July 18 for not being allowed to speak on Dalit atrocities and is likely to highlight her sacrifice for the community in the rally.

She has not responded to the offer by non-NDA parties to join the secular front. She also upset the opposition parties plan to form anti-BJP alliance by turning down the proposal to attend the BJP Bhagao, Desh Bachao rally organised by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad in Patna on August 27.

Though the BSP has suffered a defeat in three consecutive elections, it has managed to maintain its hold on its vote bank. If non-NDA parties want to open the door for the BSP, they should come with a dignified offer for alliance, a BSP leader said.

Raising question over the effort of the opposition parties to form a secular front, Mayawati earlier said before forging a pre-poll alliance the parties should finalise the seat-sharing formula.

The durability of an alliance is dependent on the distribution of seats among partners. The tussle for seats will send a wrong signal to the people and ultimately benefit the BJP, she said.
Launching a scathing attack on the BJP and RSS, Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati on Monday charged the saffron party with hatching a conspiracy to eliminate her during her public meeting in Shabirpur village after Saharanpur violence.

Claiming that the situation was worse than Emergency, she alleged that the central government had let loose the government agencies on opposition leaders to intimidate them.

The present situation is worse than the Emergency. The BJP is weakening democracy in the country and misusing CBI and other government agencies to silence the leaders of rival parties, she said.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had the plan to trigger violence in the village in case I made a provocative speech in support of Dalits. BJP ka plan mujhe hamesha ke liye dafan kar dena tha jis se ki BSP khatam ho jaye (BJP wanted to eliminate me to decimate the Bahujan Samaj Party), Mayawati alleged.

They failed to assess me. I always make my statement in accordance with the situation, she said.

Without naming Bhim Army which was held responsible for violence in Saharanpur, Mayawati said the conspirators managed an organisation to execute their plan and lodged cases against it when their plan was exposed.

Terming BJP and RSS as anti-Dalits and anti-poor, she reminded the people about the Rohith Vemula case, atrocities on Dalits in Gujarats Una and Saharapur violence to support her claims.

I decided to resign from the Rajya Sabha on July 17 when I was not allowed to raise my voice against atrocities on the poor and Dalits, she said.

Comparing her move with the resignation by the then law minister and Dalit icon Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar in September 1951, Mayawati said: Babasaheb resigned in protest of the lackadaisical attitude of the Nehru-led government in providing women rights equal to men and in support of demand for a commission for reservation to OBCs. Following his footsteps, I also resigned when the ruling party stopped me from speaking for Dalits and poor, she said.

I have been working to revive and organise them to convert them into a force which could fight against the BJP-RSS agenda of caste politics, Mayawati added.

Targeting Modi for making hollow promises to the people, she said the union government was working for the benefit of capitalists and was implementing the agenda of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) which had nothing to do with the welfare of Dalits, OBCs and underprivileged sections of the society.

Mayawati said the Yogi government in UP was following the footsteps of Modi which had resulted in deteriorating law and order situation, violence in the name of cow and poor health services.

She called upon the people to join hands to stop NDA and BJP win the Lok Sabha election in 2019 to prevent it from coming to power in Uttar Pradesh again.

In 2014 Lok Sabha election, nobody noticed manipulation in EVMs as there was a widespread discontent against the Congress but it was taken into notice in 2017 elections and the BSP launched a statewide protest against it, she said.

Commencing from Meerut on Monday, the BSP will organise divisional-level rallies in different parts of the state every month.
Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav will be missing from the hoardings to be placed for the national convention of the party scheduled to be held in Agra on October 5.

The format of the hoarding received from Lucknow has a big photograph of national president Akhilesh Yadav besides Mohd Azam Khan, Dimple Yadav, Ramgopal Yadav and Kiranmoy Nanda, sources in the party said.

Besides Mulayam, his brother Shivpal Yadav is also missing from the hoardings. These hoardings will be put up in the city by September 20.

Mulayam used to choose Agra for national executive and national meet as he considered the city to be lucky for the party.

Under Mulayams leadership, the party organised national convention and executive meet at Agra in 1993, 1996, 2003, 2009, 2011 and 2013. Following the meetings, the party registered good results in elections.

Party leaders in Agra said they would comply with the format received from the national president.

We have received the format for hoardings from Lucknow and the pattern will be followed as per the instructions. The party workers willing to place hoardings will have to follow this format, said city unit president Raisuddin who also heads the publicity and preparation for the meet.

Besides this hoarding, another format has been received which has place for personalities associated with the ideology of samajwad.

This hoarding will have photographs of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Janeshwar Mishra, Mohan Singh and Braj Bhushan Tiwari.

The city will be decked up with eight dwars (gates) to be named after Chaudhary Charan Singh, Ram Manohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev, Raj Narain, Karpoori Thakur, Madhu Limaye and Janardan Mishra, said Raisuddin.

He, however, avoided discussion on the omission of Mulayams name and said he was following the instructions.

The days ahead may unfold more chapters in the broadening gap within the party. Shivpal has remained vocal in taking on Akhilesh and had even hinted at some decision during his visit to Mainpuri last Thursday.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
These people may be belonging to different parts of the country, but they have made Lucknow their karmabhoomi with the objective of seeing the Metro project through.

Meet the planners, technicians, administrators and labourers who

worked relentlessly for construction agency  Larsen & Turbo  commissioned by Lucknow Metro Rail Corporation (LMRC) for the project.

The project, which was rolled out in September 2014, had 150 L&T staff and 350 labourers. Hindustan Times randomly spoke to a cross-section of people who worked for Lucknows dream project since the start and have stayed on.

Coming from various corners of India, most of them are youngsters. Some were just married when they came to Lucknow, few are bachelors at present, some are to be married soon while others left their family behind and made Lucknow their temporary home.

We trace their antecedents, talk about their family, routine and stay in the city.

SANJAY SINGH GANGWAR

Gangwar is currently a project manager. (HT Photo)

The Kanpurite has been working with different companies on metro projects for 17 years. I left Kanpur in 1995 and since 2000 started working for various metro projects in New Delhi. I am with this company since 2012, and in August 2015, I joined the LMRC project as a deputy project manager, he says.

Gangwar says coming to Lucknow was very special for him. With my hometown a few kilometers away, it was a great feeling that finally metro was coming to UP. The greatest feeling was that I was chosen for the project that was completed in record time, he adds. Gangwar is currently a project manager.

His family is in Delhi, which has become his home since 2000. My father belonged to Farrukabad while mother is from Kanpur. We migrated to Kanpur due to work where I grew up and then work took me to Delhi, which has now my home. My son is pursuing engineering while my daughter is in Class 12. My wife, a homemaker, takes care of them while I keep travelling to Delhi every fortnight to see them, he tells.

Gangwar says he hasnt been able to meet his family for three months due to CMRS inspection in Lucknow. These are hazards of transferable job, but then one has a lot of satisfaction when hard work pays off. Now, I have been transferred to the second phase of the project (Munshipulia). We will expedite work as we need to complete it by December 2018.

Another silver lining for him is that Kanpur metro project is also shaping up.

AVIK DUTTA

A native of Kolkata, he came to Lucknow in January 2015 where he joined as deputy planning manager. Before I came here, I worked on a flyover project in Hyderabad, a port in Odisha and Kolkata Metro. During that period the foundation of Transport Nagar depot area was being laid, he tells.

Dutta says the workforce faced the challenge of working on the fastest metro project, but they were confident as land was defined.

Initially for six months, he stayed in a guest house and then brought his wife and small kid to Lucknow. I rented a house in Ashiana. My son is now 3 and a half years and I plan to put him in a good school. I hope to stay on in the city till the next phase (Munshipulia stretch), he says.

YATINDRA SINGH

This senior engineer comes from Ghaziabad and has been working with L&T for the last seven years. Before coming to Lucknow in October 2015, I worked on NHAIs road project in Nashik and Faridabad metro project.

Since then I have been continuously doing night shifts as our main work starts after blocking the road at 11 pm. Its typically 8:30 pm to 8:30 am routine, he says, adding that he has the experience of working for 24 to 36 hours at a stretch in crucial situations.

He got married in January 2015, few months before he came to Lucknow. I got married in Kasganj. After I shifted to LMRC project, my wife stayed back in Ghaziabad. Last year, I brought her to Lucknow and a rented a house here. My son has now turned 1, he adds.

Yatindra says workers have an erratic eating habits due to night shifts. You cant have dinner at 8 pm and work overnight. Sab aise hi chalta hai... when I used to feel hungry in late night hours, our saviour was bun-makkhan, he says with a smile.

RAHUL BHUSHAN SRIWASTAVA

Hailing from Bihar and brought up in Ranchi, he joined Lucknow Metro project in January 2015. He is currently a construction manager. Prior to this, he has worked with Delhi Metro.

Completing the project in two years and seven months was a big task. Earlier, similar work had been completed in three and a half years. But, his was made possible due to team effort  company, supplier and client LMRC. We saved 30% time abiding by our companys motto: safety and quality, he says.

A bachelor, Rahul is looking forward to getting married with a Varanasi girl in October. There is lot of pressure from family. But then one needs free environment, some holidays and peace. In full work mode, all this is not possible. Now, that metro is operational and second package is going on, I had to give in to family pressure, he says.

Rahul says Lucknow will be special to him as he is entering a new phase of life from this city. I hope to stay on for may be two more years till Munshipulia stretch is completed.

RAHUL DEV YADAV

A native of Chapra district in Bihar, he is currently station in-charge with the Metro project. Working in this company for last five years, he has worked for Faridabad metro project before coming to Lucknow in June 2015.

Better road management was required for construction of stations for which the team had to struggle with locals. Its true that people had to face a lot of inconvenience while the metro was being built. This was very challenging as we were working in the middle of the main artery of the city. But, people are very sweet here and co-operated with us, he says.

Rahul says the main problem they faced was from outstation commuters who used Kanpur Road as a highway and at times engaged in heated arguments. The marshals and security team handled them well. The local administration and police too had to step in at times, but all went off well, he recalls.

He is staying with his wife in a rented home in Krishna Nagar. Rahul is a station in-charge and lives near his work station.
Respect for the Aged Day in Japan honours and celebrates senior citizens. The day traces it origins back to 1966 when it was declared a public holiday. According to the population estimate released by the Japanese government, as of last week, the total number of Japanese people aged 90 and older has topped 2 million for the first time, reported The Japan Times. Moreover, a record 7.70 million people aged 65 and older are earning wages in some fashion.

Events to mark Respect for the Aged Day are often held in the run up to the occasion. For instance, a pop-up restaurant called the Restaurant of Order Mistake was set up in Tokyo on September 16. Its wait staff team included 17 dementia patients. So you were expected to be patient if you ordered a pasta but ended up with a soup. The idea was to spread the message of acceptance and empathy towards elderly dementia patients.

Another event encouraged senior citizens to look after their health. It was held at a temple in Tokyos Sugamo district, an area frequently visited by Japans elderly population. Take a look at the pics from the event:

Elderly and middle-aged people exercise with vigour. (Toru Hanai/Reuters)

Japan has a large number of elderly population. (Toru Hanai/Reuters)

Many events are held to mark the annual Respect for the Aged Day. (Toru Hanai/Reuters)

A large number of senior citizens in Japan are engaged in part-time or contractual work. (Toru Hanai/Reuters)

Now that Japan has paved the road for other countries to follow their lead, India too must take more steps to look after older adults in a better way.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more
Is your receding hairline taking a toll on your confidence? It might actually work in your favour if a new study is to be believed. According to a study by researchers from The University of Pennsylvania, bald men are perceived as more attractive, confident and dominant.

Choosing to dispense with ones hair is arguably a form of nonverbal behaviour, a form of expression which communicates information about the self otherwise difficult to observe, the researchers were quoted as saying by Britains Independent

The researchers also suggested that bald men might be more elusive than those with typical mops.

For the study, the team gave three major tests to college students, both men and women, asking them to rate images of men according to attractiveness, confidence and dominance. In the first study, men with shaved heads were rated as more dominant than similar men with full heads of hair.

In the second study, men whose hair was digitally removed were perceived as more dominant, taller and stronger than their authentic selves. This effect was due to a large degree by their higher perceived confidence and masculinity, the researchers noted.

The third study extended these results with nonphotographic stimuli and demonstrates how men experiencing natural hair loss may improve their interpersonal standing by shaving. Thus, instead of spending billions each year trying to reverse or cure their hair loss, the counterintuitive prescription of this research to men experiencing male pattern baldness is to shave their heads, the researchers emphasised.

Doing so will increase their interpersonal standing on a host of dominance-related traits, including their potential for leadership, they said.
A nine-year-old boy died after being bitten by around 10 stray dogs in Bhiwandi on Sunday. Dhiraj Yadav, who was playing with a friend at a dump yard, accidentally jumped from a pipeline on to a dog. The dog started chasing Dhiraj and soon more dogs followed and mauled the boy.

The Class 2 student was rushed to IGM Hospital in Bhiwandi, but as he was badly injured, the doctors asked him to be shifted to Thane civil hospital. He succumbed to his injuries a few hours later at the Thane hospital.

Dhiraj ran when the dogs started chasing him. But he slipped and fell and the dogs pounced on him, said Dinesh Katke, senior police inspector. His friend saw him being attacked by the dogs, but was scared and he ran away. A passer-by spotted the dogs mauling the boy and alerted others.

The police have filed an accidental death report (ADR).

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Mumbai traffic polices order to overhaul traffic flow in south Mumbai by banning heavy vehicles from entering the area for 17 hours a day and putting parking restrictions on vehicles has now been put on hold till September 22. The police will discuss the matter with stakeholders to see if the policy requires any changes.

Amitesh Kumar, joint commissioner of police (traffic), said, We will speak to all the stakeholders including bus owners and heavy vehicle owners and take their feedback into consideration till September 22.

Senior traffic police officials will meet with stakeholders including school bus and heavy vehicle owners. Shortly after the order was issued, city bus operators had threatened to go on a 48-hour strike from Tuesday. I am not officially informed about any protests but they had asked for discussions. The suggestions were open to invitations, added Kumar.

Stakeholders from buses, school buses, water tankers, LPG, oil refineries, ready-to-mix plying vehicles are scheduled to meet with the traffic police chief for further discussions.

Following the meetings, the department may revise the order taking into consideration the basic needs of the stakeholders. However, senior officials said its not certain if major changes would be made to the order.

Apart from heavy vehicles, other vehicles heading towards south Mumbai were to be allowed only till specific roads between 11am and 5pm. The original order had exempted ST buses, BEST buses, school buses, buses carrying private companys staff, Mumbai darshan buses, heavy vehicles providing essential services like vegetables, milk, bread and bakery products, drinking water tankers, petrol, diesel, kerosene tankers, ambulance, police vehicles, fire brigade vehicles and government and semi-government vehicles from plying in the restricted area.

The order, issued by the department on September 12, was to be carried on for two months on pilot basis and the police was monitor the situation, if it changes.
Thane police on Monday arrested Iqbal Kaskar, Indias most wanted criminal Dawood Ibrahims brother, in connection with an extortion case.

The Thane Anti-Extortion Cell, led by encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma, took Kaskar in for questioning from his Mumbai residence in the evening. He was later arrested.

Kaskar called a builder from Thane around four months ago and tried to extort money from him. The builder lodged a complaint with the police a few days ago. When we traced the number, we confirmed it was Kaskars, a police officer from the anti-extortion cell said.

We have questioned Kaskar about the call. We have detained him as a prime suspect in the case, the officer added.

Kaskar, who was deported from the United Arab Emirates in 2003, is said to be operating his brothers real estate business in the city, the police said.

He was wanted in a murder case and the Sara Sahara illegal construction case. However, he was acquitted in both the cases in 2007.

This is Sharmas first big case since taking over the anti-extortion cell last month. He was previously posted with the Mumbai police, but dismissed from service in August 2008 for his alleged close ties to the underworld.

(With PTI inputs)

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
If all goes well as per the plan chalked out by the government, then soon your automobile dealer will have the authority to register vehicles and issue registration number as well.

Once the rule is amended, customers could get faster deliveries. Sources said dealers could hand over vehicles to their customers within two days after booking against the present day waiting period of minimum seven days.

To give dealers the authority to register vehicles in non-transport category  vehicles with white number plates  the state has decided to amened ule 42 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Rules 1989. The decision was taken during a meet chaired by chief secretary Sumeet Mullick. The transport department is drafting rules and inviting suggestions and objections from the people before September-end.

Refusing to divulge details, transport commissioner Praveen Gedam said a proposal is under-consideration. However, sources from transport department said the move is aimed at reducing workload on RTOS, which are short-staffed and use the existing manpower for works such as conducting vehicle fitness tests.

About 20 lakh non-transport category vehicle are registered in Maharashtra every year, including 2 lakh at four RTOs in Mumbai. Currently, RTO inspection is mandatory for an automobile dealer before handing over vehicle to the customers.

It could save time and money of the customers, said an RTO official. He, however, cautioned that chances of customers being sold damaged vehicles cannot be ruled and demanded stringent action and penalties against corrupt dealers.

Sources said since the implementation of web based VAHAN system used for vehicle registration, dealers directly receive vehicle homologation data from manufactures. The dealers cannot change it, therefore the government does not foresee any major problem giving vehicle registration powers to the dealers.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The city airport will reach its saturation point next year, leaving it with no room to operate more flights than it currently does. A report by Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), a leading aviation think tank, said the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA) has currently reached 94% of its passenger-handling capacity.

The countrys second-busiest airport, after Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport, handles 45.2 million passengers every year and witnesses around 930 flight operations every day. According to the Sydney-based think tanks report, the Mumbai airport will handle 48 million passengers  its maximum capacity  in 2018. The IGI airport, which has an annual capacity of 100 million passengers, is currently used by 58 million passengers and will reach saturation point in 2023.

The report said the congestion at CSIA will lead to loss of thousands of jobs and economic loss for Mumbai and the region.

Mumbai International Airport Private Limited, which manages the airport, did not comment on the report.

Aviation expert and former pilot Vipul Saxena, however, said, This has been coming up time and again, as there are many stakeholders whose future depends on this issue. I agree with CAPAs study. The passenger traffic at Mumbai airport is growing at almost 20% of the total air traffic growth, which is alarming.

When it reaches its maximum capacity, the Mumbai airport would have added 48 more flights every day, but it wont be able to increase operations after that. According to CAPA, the Navi Mumbai airport, which was expected to handle the overflow from Mumbai, can be thrown open to passengers only by 2024, at the earliest. The delay Mumbai getting a second airport, the report pointed out, and the severe congestion at Mumbai airport, will lead to the lowest aviation traffic growth among six metros in India.

I hope under the proactive NDA government, the ministry has drawn up a plan which they must share with the public at the earliest so that there is no panic and land price hoarders dont loot people. I expect Goa and Pune airports will have to share the burden of the Mumbai airport till the Navi Mumbai one doesnt come up, said Saxena.

The report termed the situation completely avoidable, and stated that 40 Indian airports are expected to be saturated in the next decade. It, however, added that airports in metro could be saturated quicker.

The report said that while all metro cities will require a second airport by 2030, Mumbai and Delhi might need a third one.

Some airlines are already preparing for what is to come. A few airlines have started using wide body aircraft  which have higher passenger capacity  for some domestic routes from Mumbai. This is done to have maximum passengers flying in the already available slots. The airport has been actively discouraging operations by regional aircraft and has a curfew on general aviation movements during peak hours, said the report.
For the past three months, citizens walking or jogging along Bandras Carter Road promenade have been seeing a man with a shovel in his hand, digging and clearing mangroves of debris and garbage. He was always seen working alone.

Toiling as a one-man army against garbage that is choking Mumbais mangrove forests, 51-year-old Rehan Merchant, a Bandra resident, has cleared more than 15 tonnes of litter in 90 days. He cleared a 100-foot-wide pool of sewage by creating a channel that allowed the high tide water to wash away muck. He unclogged a decade-old sewage pipe so that plastic would not get stuck to mangrove branches.

Inspired by Merchants efforts, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) sent 10 clean-up marshals to assist him.

In two weeks, the BMC workers have helped him remove more than five tonnes of trash. The heavy downpour on Saturday morning did not interrupt the latest cleaning session.

After spending 12 years working in the Middle East, Merchant, a website designer, returned to Mumbai in 2009 and found that the area, where he grew up, was strewn with garbage, mostly plastic. What was worse, the amount of trash kept increasing daily as the high tide would set in, said Merchant. He contacted the authorities and local politicians to clean the area but his pleas were not addressed.

He studied the cause and devised a plan to remove plastic with minimal effort. He called the plan Prakritik Samadhan or environmental solution. He put up signboards, requesting people to contribute Rs 600 per day for one additional worker who could remove the excess garbage while he dug a channel to drain sewage. When authorities failed to support me, citizens did and we were able to clear the sewage, said Merchant.

He refuses to take the credit for the cleaning operation. Nature supported me. During high tide, the storm water and sewage would automatically channel the excess garbage, silt and muck into the sea, allowing me enough time to clear the residual trash, said Merchant.

He added that Mumbais flood problem could be easily solved by following his model.

After the sewage was drained, Merchant contacted the assistant municipal commissioner, H (West) ward, Sharad Ughade, who agreed to survey the area. When citizens step forward and participate towards a cleaner environment, we will always commit our resources to boost their endeavour, said Ughade.

Merchants efforts are a little unorthodox but they are nonetheless exemplary. Our workers will ensure that the area is trash free, said Mangesh Mayekar of BMCs solid waste management department.

ALL YOU NEED KNOW ABOUT MANGROVES

Mangroves are salt-tolerant plants, a common natural feature along the Mumbai coast

Apart from playing a role in stabilising coastlines, mangrove trees act as carbon sinks, capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing them in the vegetation. This process is called carbon sequestration, and helps control global warming by reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere

 Mangrove ecosystem establishes and grows at the interface of soil and water bodies like sea, creeks, estuaries, bays and lagoons. They are commonly found in inter-tidal areas  area between the high tide and the low tide.

 Mangrove ecosystem is believed to have evolved around 114 million years ago in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires a minimum of 24 degrees Celsius temperature for growth

Official Speaks

The city is generating large quantities of trash daily and mangroves are bearing the brunt. Similar to our cleanup drive at the Carter Road mangroves, we welcome Merchants efforts in creating a sustainable habitat for the several plant and animal species surviving at these mudflats, said Makarand Ghodke, assistant conservator of forest, Mumbai Mangrove Conservation Unit.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
As the University of Mumbai (MU) and its affiliated colleges scramble to finish the syllabus in time following the results mess that delayed the admission process, students who have opted for post-graduation (PG) students and teachers are looking at truncated vacations and additional classes to cover the time lost.

With thousands of the degree students still awaiting results, the university has deferred the deadline for PG admissions until September 25, leaving MU departments and affiliated colleges with the uphill task of covering the entire semesters curriculum in just 55 days. This is almost half of the mandatory 90-day teaching period prescribed by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

It will be tough to complete the syllabus in this limited period. We are waiting for the instructions from the university. Simultaneously, we are also trying to figure out if a few lectures can be held during Diwali vacations, said Rajpal Hande, principal, Mithibai College, Vile Parle.

In any case, the college will be functional for a week during vacations due to the degree [first-year] college exams. So we might as well conduct a few lectures for PG students during this period, said Parag Thakkar, principal, HR College, Churchgate.

Though the university had scheduled Diwali vacation between October 13 and November 6, it recently slotted first-year degree exams from October 30.

However, a few principals believe that it may impossible to cut down on holidays.

We have Diwali vacations as per the schedule because many outstation students need time to travel home and come back, said Kalim Khan, director, Rizvi Institute of Management Studies and Research, Bandra.

Balaji Kendre, an associate professor at MUs department of sociology, said the department is planning to conduct additional classes during the existing teaching days to compensate for the days lost owing to the results mess. There might be six lectures every day, instead of four, he said.

Some of the colleges have commenced the semester to minimise the academic loss. Jhunjhunwala College, Ghatkopar, has started lectures and practical sessions for all its masters and PG diploma courses, except MCom. The focus for now is on projects before regular sessions begin. Even the students, who are yet to seek admission, to the college can attend lectures.

Birla College, Kalyan, too started orientation and laboratory work for its MSc Bio-Technology course. KC College, Churchgate and MU Law Academy will hold special classes for law aspirants.

For us, the benefit of students is the top priority. Owing to the extended vacation, they have lost the touch with the academics and want to return to the college, said Usha Mukundan, principal, Jhunjhunwala College.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
British electronic band Clean Bandit are all set for their maiden visit to India in December. According to a source close to the group, the Rockabye hitmakers will perform at the 11th edition of Sunburn Music Festival. The electronic dance music festival, earlier held in Goa, now takes place in Pune.

Were still finalising a few details, but yes, Clean Bandits will be flying to India for their first performance. They are excited about it, says the source, adding that the Brit group will perform on December 28, the first day of the four-day Sunburn event, which has its finale on New Years Eve.

The first wave of artists at the festival also includes popular musicians Martin Garrix and DJ Snake. We are making some exciting changes to the main festival this year  [details] will be out soon. We also have some of best DJs lined up for the festival and hope to close the year on a high, a statement from the organisers read.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
More than 1 million Americans await a hearing to see whether they qualify for disability benefits from Social Security, with the average wait nearly two years  longer than some of them will live.

All have been denied benefits at least once, as most applications are initially rejected. But in a system where the outcome of a case often depends on who decides it, most people who complete the appeals process will eventually win benefits. The numbers come from data compiled by the Social Security Administration.

About 10.5 million people get disability benefits from Social Security. An additional 8 million get disability benefits from Supplemental Security Income, the disability program for poor people who dont qualify for Social Security. The disability programs are much smaller than Social Securitys giant retirement program. Still, the agency paid out $197 billion in disability payments last year.

Recipients wont get rich as the average benefit is $1,037 a month  too small to lift a family of two out of poverty.

For some, the benefits come too late.

Chris Hoffman worked as a mason, laying bricks and tile and pouring concrete. He had terrible back pain for much of his life, but he kept working until a series of heart attacks. He applied for Social Security disability benefits in 2014 but was denied. He appealed to an administrative law judge.

In November, Hoffman died at 58, following his fourth heart attack. Ten months later, the judge ruled that he was entitled to benefits.

It wasnt that he was limited, it was that he wasnt able to do anything, said Hoffmans son, Dustin.

Last year there were 7,400 people on waitlists who were dead, according to a report by Social Securitys inspector general.

For someone to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, a doctor must determine that the disability is severe enough to prevent an applicant from working. The disability must last at least a year or could result in death.

If applicants cant perform their old jobs, officials see if they can adapt to new ones.

The Social Security Administration says it is working to reduce the backlog by hiring 500 new administrative law judges and more than 600 support staff. The judges, who now number about 1,600, hear appeals from people who were initially denied benefits. The agency is also expanding a program that quickly awards benefits to people with serious illnesses and conditions, including certain cancers, said Bea Disman, the agencys acting chief of staff.

But advocates say budget cuts over the past five years have frustrated efforts to reduce the disability backlog.

Last year, the agencys budget was $12.6 billion, roughly the same as it was in 2011, even though an additional 6 million people receive either retirement or disability benefits from Social Security.

No search for efficiencies, reprioritization of tasks or technological improvements can substitute for adequate resources, said Lisa Ekman of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives.

To get benefits, applicants first apply to state agencies that work with the Social Security Administration. These agencies approve, on average, about one-third of the applications they receive, Disman said. In most states, applicants who are denied benefits can ask the same state agency to reconsider, though very few of these applications get approved.

The next step is to file an appeal with an administrative law judge. This is where the backlog swells, with 1.1 million applicants waiting for a hearing before a judge. Thats slightly down from last year, but a 31 percent increase from 2012.

The average wait for a hearing is 602 days. Five years ago, it was less than a year.

The delay is an unfair hardship for people already living with disabilities, said Mike Stein, assistant vice president of Allsup, a firm that represents applicants.

Chris Shuler couldnt attend his hearing.

Shuler was working as an airplane mechanic in Oklahoma when he was exposed to some chemicals and developed severe respiratory problems, said his wife, Elizabeth Shuler. The medicine he took for his lungs affected his bones and he eventually had two hip replacements, she said.

Chris Shuler applied for Social Security disability payments in 2012 and was denied almost immediately, his wife said. He died in July 2015 from an infection that started in his hip, just before his 40th birthday.

Four months later Elizabeth Shuler attended her husbands hearing on his behalf.

I wanted to make sure I at least saw a judge, she said. The judge said it was a no-brainer.
In the first phase of its anti-land mafia initiative, the Ghaziabad administration has identified and booked 32 persons under the Goonda Act for being a part of the land mafia involved in 17 cases of grabbing public and private land across the district.

However, activists say this is just the tip of the iceberg and the administration is yet to get its hands on the bigger fish.

Ahead of the 2017 polls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had promised to crack down on land mafia and it started the drive soon after chief minister Yogi Adityanath assumed office.

The first phase of the drive will end on September 30. Officials have been asked to pick pace as only 131 hectares of 603 hectares of the encroached land has been freed till now.

Nearly 130 FIRs and 1,369 revenue cases have been lodged against different persons. The persons identified are habitual offenders and have encroached much private and government land, said Gynendra Singh, additional district magistrate.

In a related development, the revenue board has asked all lekhpals (grassroot-level officials) and revenue inspectors to physically verify the status of land at gram sabha-level and upload this status on the Bhulekh portal.

Seventeen instances of land grabbing have been uncovered at Vijay Nagar, Murad Nagar and Loni areas; only one instance of grabbing government land, of 7,084 square metre, came to the fore.

Activists, however, claim the land mafia has grabbed a lot more government land in Ghaziabad, where land prices are high. They have developed residential settlements and sold them off in the past decade, activists claim.

Explaining the mafias modus operandi, councillor Rajendra Tyagi said, The land mafia purchase small pieces of land from farmers near government land. They then capture the government land as well and sell it to different people. However, the registries made to different people are of the same khasra number as the farmers. In the past 20-30 years, the mafia have encroached on a lot of government land, sold it and fled.

Under the anti-land mafia campaign, the officials must identify all land grabbers and the officials who helped them, Tyagi said.

We are in the process of identifying more land mafia, said Ghaziabad district magistrate Ritu Maheshwari.

Officials said that vis-a-vis the encroached public land that has been colonised they have written to the state government to either regularise them or a develop rehabilitation policy.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
English professor Ganesh Devys eyes sparkle when he talks about the challenging days when he published magazines in dying languages of India.

In 1997, I brought out 11 magazines in tribal languages, which were on the verge of being lost. One was of the Chaudhari tribe of Gujarat. I printed 1,000 copies and on the first day  to my surprise  I sold 700 magazines, 67-year-old Devy, who used to teach at the University of Baroda told HT.

Illiterate daily wage labourers bought those copies  I saw tears in their eyes when they saw their language in print for the first time in their lives, he said, underlining the pride and joy that spurred those people to pick up the magazines.

After that life-changing experience, Devy decided to document dying languages. He travelled across India, stayed for months with poor communities, built networks, trained and mobilised 3,500 volunteers (academics, language experts, authors, school teachers, farmers, activists, bus drivers, and nomads), and finally set up an 80-member editorial collective to ground the project academically.

Devy is not a linguist but under his initiative, the Peoples Linguistic Survey of India (PLSI) was established in 2010 in Vadodara. Last month, PLSI launched 26 volumes on languages spoken across 10 states. Thirty-four more are expected to be out by 2018.

While Devys project is a personal effort, the Union government, too, has its own programme to preserve dying languages. In 1969, it established the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in Mysuru. In mid-2013, the institute, which is under the ministry of human resource development, was given the task under the Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages (SPPEL). The actual documentation work started in late 2014. CIIL did not respond to queries regarding their project.

THE GLOBAL LANGUAGE CRISIS Over the last two decades, scientists have come up with mathematical models for predicting the life of languages. These predictions have indicated that a large part of linguistic heritage is moving rapidly close to extinction. Some of the predictions maintain that out of an approximately 6,000 existing languages, only a small portion of language diversity will continue to exist in the 22nd century. In the absence of a through survey of languages, it is difficult to decide how many languages there are really in existence and how many will survive. The PLSI is a snapshot of languages. In GLSR, we are going to do a janampatri of languages, a horoscope. This (PLSI) is about the present of the language  that is about the future of the languages. THE GLOBAL LANGUAGE CRISIS  The 1961 Census recorded 1,652 languages

 Since the 1971 Census, languages spoken by less than 10,000 people have been lumped as "others"

 The language data of 2011 Census, the most recent one, has not been disclosed

 PLSI has recorded 780 living languages, of which 400 are dying. Over the last two decades, scientists have come up with mathematical models for predicting the life of languages. These predictions have indicated that a large part of linguistic heritage is moving rapidly close to extinction. Some of the predictions maintain that out of an approximately 6,000 existing languages, only a small portion of language diversity will continue to exist in the 22nd century. In the absence of a through survey of languages, it is difficult to decide how many languages there are really in existence and how many will survive. The PLSI is a snapshot of languages. In GLSR, we are going to do a janampatri of languages, a horoscope. This (PLSI) is about the present of the language  that is about the future of the languages.The 1961 Census recorded 1,652 languagesSince the 1971 Census, languages spoken by less than 10,000 people have been lumped as "others"The language data of 2011 Census, the most recent one, has not been disclosedPLSI has recorded 780 living languages, of which 400 are dying.

How many languages does India have?

There is no official count of the total languages in India. The 1961 Census recorded 1,652 languages. But since the 1971 Census, languages spoken by less than 10,000 people have been lumped as others. The language data of 2011 Census, the most recent one, has not been disclosed.

Thanks to lack of public information over the last 40 years (1971-2011), it is impossible for any agency other than the census office to figure out the range of languages expected in India, explained Devy.

Devys research, however, shows that there are 780 living languages in India  at least 400 are at the risk of dying in the next 50 years.

Unsurprisingly, most at risk are the ones spoken by marginal tribes whose children receive no education or, if they go to school, are taught in Indias 22 languages recognised in the Constitution.

How did we start losing languages?

This marginalisation of languages started in 1926. That year, the idea of organising India on the lines of linguistic states came up and became a reality after Independence. Languages that had scripts were counted and the ones without a script, and therefore, no printed literature did not get their own states. Schools and colleges were established only in the official languages.

Languages without scripts had no place in the education system. The result: Gondi, Bhili and Santhali became minority languages because their population was divided among several states.

Bhili is a minority language in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh while together it has its own majority. Bhili did not have a script and so nobody proposed a state for them, Devy said.

As a result of this division, tribal groups started lagging behind in education and many took on other languages.

Today, schools are increasingly training students in global languages, giving a short shrift to local ones.

In a similar way, the idea of Nation-State and one language  an idea which has triggered many discussions in this country  has weakened regional languages. The NDAs push for Hindi, which has met with protests in non-Hindi speaking regions, reflects that one nation-one language idea.

Why should we save languages?

Some say theres no harm in losing languages. As an argument, it is okay. But every language is a unique world view and a repository of traditional knowledgelosing them would be disastrous, said Devy, adding that in a tech-driven world, language diversity can be turned into a great cultural capital and real capital.

Language is also about political power. The scheduled languages are linguistic citizens of this country but non-scheduled languages are linguistic non-citizens. But we all have equal stakes in the country and equal responsibility. By giving the non-scheduled languages their due, I am creating responsible citizens by protecting their languages, argued Devy. Linguistic citizenship is as important as political citizenship.

Moreover, language is also about bargaining power of the people with the State. The lack of a common language between a local administrator and the citizens severely curtails both sides from expressing their needs.

Or take the issue of security. In Maoist-hit Chhattisgarh, misunderstanding between local language-speaking tribals and Hindi-speaking forces lead to a loss of lives.

Had we given importance to tribal languages, we would not have landed where we are today. I believe that if we start working on tribal dialects, start creating dialogue model of communication platforms, and start education in those languages, the Maoist problem can be solved. There is a huge drop-out rate in adivasi students because they speak dialects of Gondi and the teacher Hindi. Many of them end up with Maoists, [who speak the local language], Subhrangshu Choudhury, a Chhattisgarh-based journalist-turned-educationist who works among tribals, told HT.

As always, in connecting with nomadic communities Devy brings in a new critical insight that overrides some of the existing paradigms and notions, said Vinod Raja who recently directed Sikkidre Shikari Ildidre Bhikari, a film on the Hakki Pikki (bird trappers and small game hunters) nomadic tribe.

Endangered languages also cannot ensure livelihood to people, leading to migration, loss of culture and knowledge, and social and economic imbalance.

With the PLSI on firm ground, Devy, a meticulous planner, would like to document languages used by the transgender community and the trade languages of India. The ones used by dabbawallahs of Mumbai and the angadias (cash-carriers) of Gujarat  he told HT, happy at the prospect of starting another unique project.

@kumkumdasgupta

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Its generally agreed in Washington, DC, that President Donald Trumps presidency is entering a new phase. Defining just what that phase is, is proving to be problematic.

The widespread expectation was that the removal of Stephen Bannon  the former White House chief adviser and resident avatar of white American nationalism  would make the administration run more smoothly, mitigate (though not eliminate) infighting, and reduce the number of leaks. The internal warfare may be quieter since John Kelly took over as White House Chief of Staff and imposed more order in the West Wing. But so long as Trump is president, orderliness will not be the White Houses chief characteristic. In fact, Trump remains in frequent contact with Bannon, who is back in charge at Breitbart News.

Inevitably, by early September, after Kelly had been on the job for all of five weeks, Trump was chafing under his new chief of staffs restrictions. Kelly has imposed tight controls over who may enter the Oval Office, listens in on most of Trumps phone calls during office hours, and controls what pieces of paper reach the presidents desk, thus eliminating the highly ideological screeds that some staff members used to slip him.

The problem is that Trump likes disorder; thats how he had run his business, and he doesnt take well to being managed. He liked having favoured people wandering into his office as they chose, and its been his managerial creed to play people off each other. Nor does he bother to control his temper when dealing with aides. Even Kelly, an ex-Marine Corps general, has come under the lash of Trumps tongue. Observers now take bets on when Kelly will decide hes had enough.

Ive never known a White House where so much depends on who has incurred the presidents ire. Gary Cohn, the former Goldman Sachs president and chief operating officer who serves as Trumps chief economic adviser, is the latest to be frozen out. Cohns sin was to let it be known publicly that he almost resigned following the violence last month in Charlottesville, when Trump equated white supremacist and neo-Nazi demonstrators, many of them armed, with those who opposed them.

Actually, one can have some sympathy for a president with an aide who wants to have it both ways, as Cohn did  letting his apparent anguish be known without acting on it. But there can be problems when a president chooses to disregard his chief economic adviser. Cohn has been seen as one of the administrations more moderate voices, and he has wanted to succeed Janet Yellen as chair of the US Federal Reserve.

Speculation about the possibility of a new Trump peaked in early September, when the president suddenly cut a deal with Democratic congressional leaders. Trump agreed with House minority leader Nancy Pelosi, and her Senate counterpart, Chuck Schumer, on how to increase the federal debt limit, which Congress must raise each year as spending increases, and extend appropriations to keep the government running (because Congress routinely fails to write appropriations bills on time). Both items were tied to a special appropriation in the wake of Hurricane Harvey to pay for recovery efforts. (The larger Hurricane Irma hadnt yet hit.)

In the midst of the discussion at the Oval Office meeting with Pelosi and Schumer, Trump interrupted Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin as he was defending the Republicans position that these issues should be put off for 18 months, until after the 2018 congressional elections. The Democrats had argued that the increase in the debt ceiling and extension of appropriations should last for only three months, thus forcing the Republicans to take electorally risky votes before the 2018 elections.

Before the meeting, House Speaker Paul Ryan had adamantly rejected the Democrats proposal. But suddenly, without notifying even his own aides, Trump went for it. The author of The Art of the Deal had accepted the Democrats opening position.

Commentators went into overdrive, imbuing the episode with broad significance: Trump was now not a Republican but an Independent. He might start a third party. His move marked the beginning of a new way of governing.

In fact, Trump merely saw an opportunity and took it. With no real legislative achievements to claim, he did something. The Republican congressional leaders, Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, had been in bad odour with Trump for a while, because they had been unable to deliver on his legislative agenda. He was embarrassed and angered at their failure to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare. (Trump didnt recognise his own contributions to the debacle.) On many issues, Trump lacks a governing majority in the Senate.

Overlooked in all the excitement over Trumps lining up with Democratic leaders was that the issue at hand concerned legislative timing, not substance. And the subsequent fevered discussions about Trumps core beliefs  maybe he was a crypto-Democrat, who had, after all, donated to Democratic candidates at one time and sympathised with Democratic positions (such as on abortion)  missed the point. Trump harbours no particular political philosophy; hes an opportunist who craves publicity and praise.

But his maverick behaviour might turn out to be self-perpetuating. For all his contempt for the dishonest media, Trump was ecstatic about the positive press coverage his bipartisan move received. And that might lure him to try for more.

Elizabeth Drew is a journalist and author

The views expressed are personal

Project Syndicate, 2017
Ceasefire violations between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control and the international border in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) continue. The number of ceasefire violations till August this year are nearly as much as for all of 2016. Last week four people, including two BSF personnel, were injured at Poonch in the face of unprovoked firing by Pakistani troops. The ceasefire agreement of 2003, which held for over a decade, has effectively broken down.

Citizens of India and Pakistan hear a lot about ceasefire violations but have little detail on how, where and why they occur. People learn about the casualties and, sometimes, the area where violations occur but the circumstances under which they happen or the factors that precipitate them remain largely opaque. The standard Indian explanation for ceasefire violations is that they are a result of unprovoked Pakistan firing, geared to provide cover for militants infiltrating into J&K. Islamabad, in turn, blames India for unprovoked firing targeted at the civilian population on the Pakistani side.

A new paper by Happymon Jacob, associate professor at JNU, which sheds some needed light on this poorly understood dimension of India-Pakistan relations, argues that the situation is more complex than that. The study, published by the United States Institute of Peace, draws on new data, on-field visits, and over 50 interviews with Indian and Pakistani military, para-military and foreign service officials, both serving and retired. In it Jacob argues that militant infiltration is one of the causes for ceasefire violations but it is notas is often claimedone of the primary causes. There have been times when infiltration was low and ceasefire violations were high. Ceasefire violations could continue even if infiltration were to stop, he reckons, because of local factors on the frontlines.

As is well-known ceasefire violations generally correspond to the state of bilateral ties; the ceasefire tends to hold during a result-oriented bilateral dialogue process and less so when ties take a downturn. When ties are strained as they are now, there are factors on the ground [that] significantly and directly contribute to the violations, to the extent that many violations are generally not planned, directed, or cleared by higher military commands or political establishments, but are instead driven by the dynamics on the frontlines.

The structural causes for border firing are several: the LoC is delineated on a map but not marked on the ground, no formal border treaty is in place for the LoC sector, the final ratification of a Ground Rules agreement is pending, joint standard operating procedures (SoPs) are inadequate. India has tried fencing and electrifying the international border and most of the LoC  but they are ineffective at places for a variety of reasons. This sort of ambiguity about where ones territory is and the lack of formalised border management protocols on the ground sets the stage for miscalculation and escalation.

Indian and Pakistani soldiers thus try and maintain area domination amid uncertain conditions, often in the midst of civilian populations (in Jammu alone there are nearly 600 villages within five kilometres of the border). Indian security forces are constantly wary of infiltration attempts, something Pakistani counterparts do not have to worry about. Small patrol parties  that are prone to ambushes  maintain vigils in four hour shifts through the night, soldiers hunker down in bunkers and live in fear of sniper attacks. Troops are mostly preoccupied with retaining ground advantage and resisting changes to status quo. According to retired Pakistan army Lieutenant General Tariq Waseem Ghazi directions from higher chain of commandto engage in ceasefire violations may be issued to Indian or Pakistani troops for a variety of reasons, such as: to maintain dominance, to establish pressure through continuous engagement, to highlight or create disputes, to cause casualties as a matter of retribution, to show aggressive postures, or to cover and divert attention from other activities.

Ceasefire violations occur for a variety of other political and military reasons and heightened bilateral tensions only increase their likelihood. For instance, violations are known to happen when political leaders visit J&K, on days of national importance like Independence Day or whenever Pakistan finds them useful to keep the Kashmir issue alive. Local commanders on both sides may sometimes seek permission from seniors to fire in order to exact revenge for casualties. Sometimes violations occur when one side wishes to test the resolve of a new battalion posted opposite it; at other times a departing battalion makes a parting show of strength. A new battalion may wish to assert itself from the outset and take an aggressive posture. Soldiers can also react to the environment they operate in; matters get worse when tensions are high. As a retired Pakistani general puts it, the soldier in the forward most post is as affected by the media as the man in a city. The temperament of local commanders in both sides matters a great deal. Violations canbe triggered by the emotional state of soldiers and commanders in a highly tense and daunting operational environment.

The terrain creates its own complications. There is genuine confusion as to where the LoC lies, especially after winter snows and torrential rains. Troops sometimes move into areas claiming territory to be their own, provoking violence. Rivers create gaps in the international border fence. Rivers and streams can also change course, particularly after floods; when waters recede from the flood plains both sides may make conflicting claims on land  that can lead to violence if one side is in a vulnerable position. The absence of joint standard operating procedures on patrolling for India-Pakistan soldiers complicates matters by creating a tendency to misread troop movements and fire. Civilian movement adds to the pressure. Villagers from both sides who live close to the LoC, especially those who have kinship ties, often cross back and forth, they also undertake farming activity, cut grass, draw water and so on, increasing the surveillance burden.

Jacob has learned from interviews that construction-related activities are the most important cause of ceasefire violations. Both sides have agreed not to develop any new posts and defence works along the LoC but new construction is a regular occurrence. Construction and improvement of posts is undertaken to enhance observation capability and hold ground during a standoff. Owing to the advantages they afford, construction activity is often fired upon and hence the work is done mostly during the night.

Jacobs paper is an important contribution to the public understanding of India-Pakistan conflict. It points to how the absence of peace and heightened tensions put the lives of soldiers and civilians at risk on an everyday basis. It also shows how the absence of formalised protocols puts many in harms way.

To address this, Jacob suggests several urgent steps. These include formalising the 2003 ceasefire, which would entail a clear and detailed signed agreement that itemizes the attendant dos, donts, rules, guidelines, and principles would enable the two sides to better manage the border and significantly reduce the ad hoc nature of the current arrangements. Both countries should take steps to finalize the India-Pakistan Ground Rules Agreement of 1961, which could help better manage the Jammu-Sialkot border. India and Pakistan could explore the possibility of developing joint SOPs on a number of issues such as managing villagers living close to the zero line, return of inadvertent crossers, tackling movements at night, and accidental firing, among others. More pertinent, the two sides could also explore the possibility of simultaneous coordinated patrolling of small stretches of land, as is practiced along the international border in Punjab. He says the more agreements and joint SOPs in place, the less the likelihood of ceasefire violations. India and Pakistan would also need to agree on where the notional line lies in Kashmir and establish rules for construction activity.

What Jacobs paper demonstrates is that political leaders can do a lot more than just point to militant infiltration. Saving the lives of soldiers and civilians involves the hard work of negotiating agreements and creating incentives for the other side to cooperate. Increasing tensions and hardening foggy conditions of war is easier but serves little purpose except to consign troops to a state of perpetual uncertainty and conflict.

Twitter: @SushilAaron

(The views expressed by the author are personal)

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Ireland on Monday invited Punjab and Chandigarh based companies to set up ventures and also tie up with Irish companies in the field of agro industry, food processing, IT and life sciences sectors while offering pro- business environment and low-tax regime.

There is a lot of interest in Punjab-based companies in doing business with Ireland. It could be setting up ventures in Ireland and equally it is also tying up with Irish companies in various fields whether it is in agro industry, food processing or it is IT and life sciences, said Tanaz Buhariwalla, country director - India at IDA (Investment and Development Agency) Ireland, in Chandigarh today.

She said a lot of Indian companies are looking to set up base in Ireland to have an access to European Union.

We are closely engaged with about 20 companies in this region. We are engaged in talks with three companies which are in advanced stage. The two companies are in life science sector and one is in IT sector and they are looking to set up base in Ireland, she said.

She further said with setting up of base in Ireland, companies will have an access to the European Union.

Lot of companies will use Ireland to springboard into Europe. There are many reasons for that like right from the cost of doing business in Ireland which is cheaper than any Western Europe jurisdiction, she said.

There is a pro business environment in Ireland and the government recognises that business is very important to the economy. For Ireland, exports and MNCs are pillar for the economy. Ireland is the fastest growing economy in the EU.

Ireland is one of the fastest growing economies in Europe having a distinct advantage as it is now the only English part of the EU offering a favourable business environment coupled with immigration policies that welcome skilled labour and entrepreneurs to be part of the pro-business environment, she said.

The corporate tax is just 12.5 per cent. Moreover, there are grants for research and development, she said.

Ambassador of Ireland Brian McElduff said, Indian and Irish companies are increasingly looking for opportunities to collaborate in key knowledge sectors and it is very encouraging to note the increase in conversations between companies of the two countries.

Indian companies are turning to Ireland to benefit from the well-developed sectoral clusters there and to gain access to valuable European markets, he said.

They are tapping into the highly successful R&D clusters in Ireland to build products suitable for a global audience. Irish companies are also collaborating with their Indian counterparts to access the Indian and Southeast Asian markets. We look forward to ever increased engagement between companies of both countries, said McElduff.
Gearing up for the release of Jai Lava Kusa, actor Jr. NTR has told a leading Telugu television channel, about how his life and career changed post the arrival of his son in his life. Ive reached a stage in my career where Ill only take up projects that excite me more than being with my son and family. Only when I get something so exciting, will I even feel like leaving home and stepping out and working, he said.

Explaining how his life has changed after the entry of his son Abhay Ram, he said, When my son was born, I walked into the room and tried to prove to him that Im his father. Even without knowing who I was, he was genuinely smiling at me. I realised that moment that my son wanted me to become as genuine as him. In that room, it didnt matter to him whether I was a star or Jr. NTR. It was a wake-up call for me. Since then, I seek genuinity in the work I do and in the characters I play. When you genuinely work towards something, irrespective of the result, you dont feel guilty.

Jr NTR plays triple role in Jai Lava Kusa.

In Jai Lava Kusa, slated for release on September 21, NTR will be seen playing triple roles. Directed by Bobby, the film also stars Raashi Khanna and Nivetha Thomas as the leading ladies. Bollywood actor Ronit Roy plays the antagonist and the project also marks his Telugu debut.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktop
The highly anticipated teaser of Vijays Mersal will be released on September 21, the makers have announced. Its being released on that day because it happens to be the birthday of the films director Atlee.

Vijays fans have been waiting with bated breath for the teaser and are looking forward to receive the teaser with much fanfare. Instead of opting to unveil the teaser at midnight, which has become a norm of sorts for most big films, the makers of Mersal chose to release it at 6 pm and this has come as a sigh of relief for the fans who dont have to spend a sleepless night.

Mersal is one of the most anticipated releases of this year and is slated to hit the screens this Diwali. The film marks his second successive collaboration with Vijay after last years blockbuster Theri. In the film, Vijay plays triple role and he will be seen as a panchayat head, a doctor and a magician. The film also stars Nithya Menen, Kajal Aggarwal and Samantha Ruth Prabhu as Vijays love interests while SJ Suryah plays the antagonist. The film has music by A.R Rahman and has been produced by Sri Thenandal Films.

Tipped to be made on a whopping budget of Rs 130 crore, Mersal is the most expensive film in Vijays career, superseding Puli which was made on a budget of Rs 100 crore. It needs to be seen whether Mersal, given its very high budget, can strike big at the box-office or not. The film has been dubbed in Telugu as Adhirindi, and it will have a simultaneous release with its Tamil version.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktop
The top entry for a Google search on NASA jobs takes you to the US space agencys official website, lit up with the promise of galaxies far, far away.

Our work ranges from the everyday operating of our facilities, to exploring furthest limits of the past, present, and future, reads a description.

The space agency said it received a record 18,300 entries when it invited applications for a new class of astronaut trainees last year. Only 12 were selected and reported for training last month, reported CNN Money on Sunday.

How candidates are chosen

To become a NASA astronaut, applicants must be graduates in a field of science, technology, engineering or mathematics. Post graduation and work experience or at least 1,000 hours clocked in flying jets are necessary parameters for selection.

Astronaut candidates must also have skills in leadership, teamwork and communications, NASA says on its website.

Crew members walk around the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) on Mauna Loa volcano. NASA participants were involved in a study designed to better understand the psychological impacts of a long-term manned mission to space on astronauts. NASA hopes to send humans to Mars by the 2030s. (AP File Photo/University of Hawaii)

About 120 candidates shortlisted are called to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, for the second round: physical fitness tests. They must have good eyesight, height between 5 feet 2 inches and 6 feet 3 inches and stable blood pressure, which shouldnt be more than 140/90 in a sitting position.

Then, the applicants have to pass an endurance test and a string of interviews.

If you think youre the right pick, here s a list of job openings at NASA currently.

Training to be an astronaut

The final astronauts selected must complete a two-year training period. The new astronauts have more at stake as the space agency plans to fly farther into space and reach Mars.

Its like getting a full four-year college degree compressed into two years, The NASAs oldest active astronaut (62) Donald Pettit tells CNN Money. There are no summer breaks.

Some of the exercises astronauts are asked to complete in their training include swimming and treading water for 10 minutes while wearing a flight suit, going scuba -- as underwater environment is similar to space vacuum -- and riding in jets to experience zero gravity, etc.

NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik, a member of the main crew of the 52/53 expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), reacts as his spacesuit is tested at the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome in Baikonur. (AFP File Photo)

Getting comfortable in space suits is important. Theyre hot and uncomfortable, and when you get out of them, you kind of slither out of them like a worm... like a slimy creature that just crawled out of a chrysalis, Pettit says.

Astronauts also have to learn to speak Russian because space agency Roscosmos assists Nasa in space launches and travelling to and back from the International Space Station.

Wait, it still isnt over. Astronauts are further trained on the basis of what theyll be doing in space. Sample this: astronauts are trained for years before a six-month mission to the ISS.

Pay and benefits

The space agencys annual salaries for astronauts who are first starting out are between $66,026 (more than Rs 42 lakh) and $144,566 (more than Rs 92 lakh) per year.

The grade is determined in accordance with each individuals academic achievements and experience, says NASA.

Nobody gets rich, says Pettit, because the agency restricts astronauts from making financial gains. For example, they cant earn royalties if theyve written books and they cant accept gifts from aerospace companies.

NASA is ranked the first in best places to work among the 18 US federal government agencies, including the Department of State (4) and the Intelligence Community (3).

But perhaps, more importantly, each day you will help make history and decide the future, says NASA.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
DOVER, Pa. The laptop in the corner of Stanley Bolton IIs Dover living room hasnt been used in years.

It doesnt even have a charging cable to power it up.

So it might seem strange that Bolton spent more than a year and $250 fighting with police and prosecutors to get that $50 laptop back.

Bolton, a 57-year-old hardware-store employee, didnt expect to win. But he fought, he said matter-of-factly, on principle.

He said its wrong that law enforcement in Pennsylvania can take someones property through civil asset forfeiture without having to convict that person of a crime. The deck is stacked against people who try to get their property back, Bolton said.

While Bolton pursued his laptop, state law changed to make it more difficult for law enforcement to hang on to property seized under the forfeiture law. But Boltons case reveals the authority that police and prosecutors have to take things they believe were used in a crime, and how difficult  and expensive  it can be for someone who isnt convicted to get their property back.

Across Pennsylvania, district attorneys take in millions of dollars a year through civil asset forfeiture. At least some of that money goes to the same law enforcement agencies that seized the property.

Many district attorneys and police departments say they dont abuse the forfeiture law, but advocates for stronger reform say the potential for abuse is there, and reform would keep the system honest.

Before Boltons fight was over, he would accumulate stacks of court documents and rejected Right-To-Know requests; make countless unreturned phone calls; and lose his lawyer, which would mean heading to court on his own.

You think, Well, this cant happen to me, Bolton said. Guess what, it can.

Incident

On July 31, 2014, Bolton was at work when he got a call from his son, Andrew Bolton.

About 10 police officers had raided Andrew Boltons trailer. They came in with guns drawn. They took some of his stuff, including his cellphone and his laptop.

Police said he had been sharing child pornography using that laptop.

But, months later, they dropped the charges.

The York County District Attorneys office wrote that Andrew Bolton  who Stan Bolton says has some developmental disabilities  didnt have the mental capacity to have committed the crimes. It is more likely that the crime was committed by an unknown person who used the defendants IP address, and not the defendant himself.

Stan Bolton, who has power of attorney for his son, never believed the charges were valid and always believed his son was innocent.

He was frustrated that his son had been charged at all. He was confused why the police wouldnt just sit down and talk with him.

And he was irritated when he heard that he wouldnt get the laptop back  even though charges had been dropped  unless he went to court.

And so, he fought.

I just dont think its right for someone to come in and take something without providing why its being taken, Bolton said. I didnt feel that they had a case against us.

Laptop

By spring 2017, police had had the laptop for almost three years. Stan Bolton hired a lawyer, but told her he wanted to spend as little as possible, since hed already spent thousands on the criminal case.

Lawyers worked a deal with Northern York County Regional Police: They would return the laptop if Stan Bolton and his family members agreed to sign a release of all claims against the police department, and if they agreed to let police remove any criminal information on the laptop.

Stan Bolton said no.

Ive never heard of something so dumb, Stan Bolton said. Youre putting conditions on something that we feel belongs to us. Theyre holding this thing hostage unless we sign over our right to sue the police department?

When he declined the deal, that ended his relationship with the law firm. So, days later, he and his son went to court, alone.

Jonathan Blake, assistant district attorney, said that Andrew Bolton agreed that police would wipe the computers hard drive before it would be returned, a court transcript shows. York County Court of Common Pleas Judge Maria Musti Cook asked if there were any charges filed in relation to the forfeiture of the laptop. Blake said yes, but the charges were dropped.

So what is the Commonwealths authority to even wipe the computer clean and return it? Cook asked.

Blake said that under the law, Andrew Bolton didnt need to be criminally charged or prosecuted in order for police to take and keep his computer.

The prosecution has to show only that the property is more likely connected to a crime than not. If the case went to a full hearing, Blake said, he was confident that the judge would rule in the prosecutions favor.

But going to a full hearing wasnt necessary, Blake said, because police were willing to return the computer so long as they could wipe its hard drive first.

Stanley Bolton sat in one of the rows in the back of the courtroom and listened as the judge asked his son if he would agree to Blakes request.

Not certain they have a basis to do that, but if you tell me you dont care, I guess I will let them do that, Cook told Andrew Bolton.

Stan Bolton said he wanted to speak up, and to tell the judge they wanted to take the computer as-is. He had thought about having the computer analyzed. But if police wiped the hard drive, hed lose that chance.

But Andrew Bolton was representing himself at the hearing, and Stan Bolton wasnt allowed to speak up.

Andrew Bolton spoke: If that means this all ends, it doesnt matter to me, he said.

Cook gave the order.

Charges

The district attorneys office had said Andrew Bolton wasnt capable of the alleged crimes and that it was likely someone else used his IP address, and dropped the charges.

But Northern York County Regional Police Chief Mark Bentzel said that doesnt mean prosecutors lacked evidence.

Bentzel said his department returns property to people as soon as possible when it can. In cases involving (child) pornography, it has been our practice to forensically sterilize those items, he said.

The laptop was not returned, he said, because of the material police believe was on it, even though Northern York County Regional Detective Mark Baker wrote in an incident report that no images of child pornography had been found.

Bentzel cited the incident report, which noted that certain file sharing software indicated that child pornography had been, at some point, on the laptop.

It would not be proper to return something that potentially has evidence of a crime... without a judges order to return it or without allowing the police to remove the evidence, Bentzel said. We did what we thought was the right thing to do, and that was forensically sterilize the computer.

Bentzel said it might be in everyones best interest for the forfeiture law to spell out how law enforcement has to return property, especially since his department is seeing more and more cases of cyber crimes. Northern York County Regional is not taking peoples property simply to get forfeiture money, he said.

Hes happy that the proceeds of civil asset forfeiture cases in Pennsylvania go to the district attorneys offices to later be distributed to police departments, and that the money doesnt go directly to departments.

Darpana Sheth, a senior attorney with the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit civil liberties, public interest law firm based in Arlington, Virginia, said the law sets the stage for potential abuse simply because at least some proceeds go back to law enforcement.

Its kind of problematic to have that kind of incentive for police who are responsible for seizing property, Sheth said.

Legislation

Back in the 1980s, when Mike Dawida was in the state Senate and introduced legislation to expand civil asset forfeiture, the world was a changing place, he said.

Im a Democrat, a civil Libertarian, so I was not one of those people who tried to put everyone away, but on the other hand, it seemed like the bad guys were getting the upper hand, Dawida said recently.

Dawida saw civil asset forfeiture as one way to stop the bad guys. Even if they couldnt be convicted of crimes, at least they couldnt keep the things theyd gotten through illegal activity.

Forfeiture has grown into the millions of dollars in Pennsylvania. During the 2014-2015 fiscal year, law enforcement in Pennsylvania took more than $13 million in assets through civil asset forfeiture, according to reports from the state attorney generals office. York County took more than $848,000 in assets that year.

Nationally, civil asset forfeiture laws have come under fire for allowing law enforcement so much latitude to take and keep peoples property.

Dawida is now the executive director of the nonprofit Scenic Pittsburgh. But, he said, if he were in the state legislature now, he would want to make changes to the civil asset forfeiture law.

The Boltons case, he said, was not how he saw civil asset forfeiture being used.

Some legislators helped push through reform because they believed the existing law didnt provide enough protection to property owners. State Sen. Mike Folmer, R-Lebanon County, was the lead sponsor of a bill signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf in June.

Fred Sembach, Folmers chief of staff, said law enforcement will have to show clear and convincing evidence of an association between the seized property and the crime.

But Sen. Daylin Leach, D-Montgomery County, voted against the bill because, he said, the changes are not enough to counter faults with the law.

I think the whole concept of civil asset forfeiture is unconstitutional, Leach said.

Effective reform would include three key things, Leach said:

Someone who has their assets taken should have access to an attorney just as defendants in criminal cases do.

There should be a judicial finding in order for law enforcement to be able to keep your possessions.

The assets that are taken, whether cash or other property, should not be given to law enforcement, nor should the proceeds from the sale of any of those items.

Right now, the district attorneys office can spend that money on county programs or give it to police departments for equipment or enforcement efforts, typically related to drug enforcement.

Thats an obvious conflict of interest, Leach said. It would be like me going before a judge and the judge says Daylin Leach, youve committed some offense, Ill fine you $5,000. Make the check out to me.

Instead, Leach said, assets or proceeds from the sale of assets should go into a separate fund.

In the case of Andrew Bolton, Leach said he understands why police took the laptop computer to begin with.

But as soon as the charges were dropped, police should have returned it, he said.

York County District Attorney Tom Kearney, when asked why the county kept the Boltons laptop, contradicted one thing his office said at Andrew Boltons hearing  that no child porn was found on the computer.

Someone obviously had child pornography, Kearney said. . someone who had access to that computer has child pornography on that computer.

He wouldnt answer further questions, saying the case, and related Right to Know requests, were still open to appeal.

Afterward

On an August night in his living room, Stan Bolton cracked open the laptop and looked over its keyboard.

He didnt turn it on.

He said he thinks about taking the computer to someone who might be able to look it over, see if the police put any kind of tracking software on it. He wonders whether theres anything left on the computer that could show what police had done to it, or what they found when they looked it over years ago.

Its still so puzzling, he said, how his son got entangled in such a mess and why the police fought so hard to keep a laptop thats not worth much.

You have people within our county that want to take something that doesnt belong to them, Stan Bolton said.

Hes tried using the Right-To-Know Law to get emails from the police and attorneys that he thinks could offer clues about what happened. But those requests were denied.

He doesnt want to spend more money to go back to court to fight those denials.

He and his son will head back to court one more time at the end of September.

They have a hearing to get Andrew Boltons record expunged.

Stan Bolton said hes not sure what the family will do with the computer. They might try to get it up and running so they have a second computer in their home.

It might only be worth $50, but it sure tied up more money than that, he said, with a chuckle.

Overall, we kid about how much money went into this computer if you figure out everybodys time, from investigating officers, undercover officers, court time, and everything else, Stan Bolton said. I would be curious of how much money has gone into this, what we consider a $50 laptop.
A recent crackdown by forest officials on Gothi Koya tribals to evict them from Jalagalancha in Telanganas Pasra forest has triggered a political controversy.

The forest authorities plan to file criminal cases against the tribals, who are accused of cultivating crops in Pasra forest  which has been declared as a wildlife sanctuary  in violation of prevalent laws. However, the tribals claim podu (shifting cultivation) of millets and pulses on forest land is their sole means of sustainance, and they would not be able to survive on the plains.

Source said over 200 forest department officials swooped down on the Jalagalancha tribal hamlet with tractors and bulldozers on Saturday, and began demolishing the abodes of about 36 Gothi Koya families. They ransacked their huts, throwing out food items, clothes, cots and utensils, before razing them to the ground. They also destroyed the standing crops in their fields. The tribals resisted the action, resulting in a clash. When the womenfolk tried to waylay the tractors, lathi-wielding female constables belonging to the forest department dragged them away, Sarath Kumar, a witness, told HT.

While the tribal women were herded under a tree, their male counterparts were forced to dump their belongings into the tractors. It took the fores officials two hours to shift them all to Tadwai, situated about 20 km away, Kumar said.

The Gothi Koya tribals migrated to the forests of Warangal, Bhoopalpalli and Khammam districts from Chhattisgarh about ten years ago. Frequent gunbattles between security forces and ultras in the Maoist-infested state had spurred their exodus.

A policeman raises his lathi to restrain a tribal protester at Jalagalancha. (HT Photo)

They settled in the woods, eking out a livelihood through podu. The district authorities even acknowledged their hamlets, giving them Aadhaar cards a couple of years ago and laying an approach road to their hamlet, Ramana, a resident of the area, said.

The incident triggered protests by political parties as well as Adivasi groups. Agitators blocked the nearby Hyderabad-Bhupalapatnam national highway to demand justice for the victims on Sunday.

All India Adivasi Congress leader Bellaiah Naik Tejavath said tribals have the right to depend on forests for subsistence, and decried their eviction as unconstitutional. He has demanded monetary compensation for the affected tribals.

Pasra forest range officer J Shireesha, who carried out the evacuation, said the Gothi Koya tribals had to be shifted because they were cultivating crops in the wildlife sanctuary in violation of the law. We served notices and tried to counsel them on three occasions since May. Though there was an initial agreement to leave the place, they decided against it in the eleventh hour. In the end, we had no option but to follow orders and evacuate them by force, she told HT.

Shireesha alleged that some of the tribals who clashed with the officials were drunk. We used mild force after they turned violent, she said. We dont mind providing them with others means of livelihood and an alternative place to live, but the law will take its course if they attempt returning to the forest.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
For K Harika, a resident of Kusumanchi village in Telanganas Khammam district, securing an MBBS seat was a matter of life and death. Quite literally.

The 24-year-old woman was allegedly strangled and set on fire by her husband on Sunday night, after she failed to live up to his academic expectations for the third time in a row. Cyberabad police have arrested the accused  K Rushi Kumar (26)  in connection with the incident, which occurred at Rock Town Colony near Nagole on the outskirts of Hyderabad.

According to LB Nagar assistant police commissioner P Venugopal Rao, Kumar  an unemployed man who claims to hold a B Tech degree  had been staying in the colony with Harika (who happens to be his cousin) for the last two years.

The relationship between the two was strained from the very start, with Rushi constantly pestering Harika to bring more dowry. The accused also wanted her to become a doctor, so he could live comfortably on the money she earned, Rao told HT, adding that he even threatened to divorce her unless she succeeded in securing an MBBS seat.

Harika appeared for the medical entrance examination twice, but failed to land an MBBS seat. She finally managed to secure a Bachelor of Dental Surgery seat at the Kamineni Medical College this year, but it wasnt good enough for Kumar.

According to a resident of the colony, a commotion broke out at the couples place around 8 pm on Sunday. We rushed there to find the half-burnt body of Rushis wife. He had apparently set Harika afire after dousing her with kerosene, but  upon realising that smoke had begun billowing out of the house  decided to extinguish the flames with water. As there were no screams, it can only be assumed that he killed her before setting the body alight, he said.

Rushi was not on cordial terms with his neighbours, and the couple used to maintain a low profile. His sister and brother-in-law also stayed in a nearby apartment.

Rao said Rushis parents were also arrested on charges of dowry harassment, after complaints in this regard were lodged by the victims family. We initially filed a case of suspicious death. We are awaiting the post-mortem report. If it turns out to be a murder, we shall book a case under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code, he said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A popular beverage in most parts of the world, coffee is much more than just a drink in the Middle East. It is an integral part of the regions heritage, a celebration of its culture and a dedicated coffee museum in Dubai -- the first of its kind in the Middle East -- stands as testimony to the regions longstanding tryst with the drink.

Just like the traditional value that most Indians associate with chai, coffee is the customary drink served to visitors in most homes in the Middle East. It is a part of our heritage. The way we have been brought up, coffee has always occupied a vital space in our culture. So even the poor, those who cannot afford anything, will serve coffee to their guests and welcome them, museum owner Khalid Al Mulla, a noted coffee trader and collector said.

The museums shop is the first thing that catches the eye on entering this villa. Here one finds coffee mugs from several countries, personal hand grinders and other similar stuff to carry home. Enter the museum and your are spellbound at the sight of a beautiful lady, dressed in traditional Egyptian attire serving traditional coffee and popcorn to visitors. Along with a cup of coffee prepared in authentic African style, she also told us a fable. Marriages are not made by gods. They are made by coffee, she proclaimed, before bursting into loud laughter.

The ground floor includes a room for Western antiques, and another for Orientalism. A dedicated corner is designed to showcase various types of coffee. There is also an Egyptian corner, which shows the history of coffee since the days of the Ottoman Empire. One of the most rare treasures in the basement, which transports you to back into time, is the Swedish roast dating to 1840.

Then, there is the German grinder from the World War II era and many mills that were collected from Britain, dating as far back as 1860. The museum also contains ancient toasters and old paintings that tell the history of coffee and its methods of manufacture and preparation. There is also a literature room, which displays texts related to coffee, from the eighteenth century to the present day.

The upper floor lounge includes a small coffee shop, offering coffee and snacks to visitors. What strikes you is that even the sweets offered here have a distinctive coffee flavour. As we stroll through the museum and its distinctive rooms, Mulla, who is a mobile information bank about the cultivation of coffee and the ways of transporting and making it, elaborated on the history of what is one of the most popular drinks in the world today.

He said that the origin of coffee can be traced to the Ethiopian highlands many centuries ago. As the Legend of Kaldi has it, he said, coffee was discovered accidentally when a goat ate some unknown berries from a tree and remained alert for the rest of the night.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more.
The 69th prime-time Emmy Awards concluded at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles with Hulus The Handmaids Tale winning the ceremonys big award - Best Drama Series. Other major winners include NBCs This is Us, Netflixs breakout hit, The Crown and HBOs The Night Of and Big Little Lies. Science fiction western drama Westworld and NBC sketch comedy Saturday Night Live led the pack with 22 nominations apiece.

On the comedy side, Donald Glovers Atlanta and the second season of Aziz Ansaris Master of None were winners in major categories - Glover picked up Best Actor in a Comedy Series, and Ansari and Lena Waithe made history with a win for Best Writing in a Comedy Series.

A number of records were broken at the ceremony. Reed Morano became the first woman in 22 years to win for directing a drama series. Lena Waithe became the first black woman to win for writing, and Donald Glover became the first black man to win for directing a comedy series.

US President Donald Trump was top of mind all night long. In his opening monologue, the host Stephen Colbert declared Trump the biggest story of the year in television and Sean Spicer, the former White House press secretary, made a surprise appearance during the show.

Priyanka Chopra, one of the presenters at the Emmys, unwittingly made news when her name was announced as Priyanka Choppa, and her fans on Twitter calling the Emmy organisers out on it.

HBO led the race with 46 nominations in different categories while FX and Netflix have 27 nominations each. NBC and ABC follow them with 17 and 11 nominations respectively.

Catch all the updates from the ceremony here:

8:32 am IST: The Handmaids Tale is crowned Best Drama Series. This is the first major win for streaming service Hulu, seen as a competitor to Netflix and Amazon.

8:27 am IST: Elisabeth Moss wins Best Actress in a Drama Series for her performance as Offred in Hulus The Handmaids Tale. The show is seen as a poignant parable about American life under Donald Trumps presidency. Moss dropped two f-bombs in her acceptance speech.

8:23 am IST: Sterling K Brown, star of 2016s hit American Crime Story, wins Best Actor in a Drama Series for his performance in NBCs breakout hit, This is Us.

8:16 am IST: HBOs Big Little Lies continues its dominance with a win for Best Limited Series. The show has already won Emmys for Best Director and Best Supporting Actress (Nicole Kidman).

8:10 am IST: Veep wins Best Comedy Series for the third year in a row.

David Mandel and the cast accept the award for Outstanding Comedy Series to Veep. (REUTERS)

8:08 am IST: Nicole Kidman wins Best Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie for HBOs Big Little Lies. She spoke about domestic violence in her acceptance speech. Her character in the show is a victim of abuse.

8:06 am IST: Riz Ahmed takes home Best Actor for Limited Series or TV Movie for his portrayal of a falsely accused Pakistani immigrant in HBOs The Night Of. He spoke about the broken American justice system in his acceptance speech.

7:54 am IST: Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers a political speech after winning Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Veep. The former Seinfeld star plays the vice president in the HBO comedy. She makes Emmy history with most wins for the same role - six years in a row.

7:50 am IST: Donald Glover wins Best Actor in a Comedy Series for Atlanta, gives a shout out to Donald Trump in his acceptance speech. Hes the reason Im probably here, he said.

7:46 am IST: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver picks up its second trophy of the ceremony, wins Best Variety Series. The award was presented by Priyanka Chopra and Anthony Anderson.

7:24 am IST: Reed Morano wins Best Directing in a Drama Series for the pilot episode of The Handmaids Tale, and Charlie Brooker wins Best Writing for a Limited Series or TV Movie for Netflixs Black Mirror. Morano becomes the first woman to win for directing a drama series in 22 years.

7:11 am IST: Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe win for Outstanding Writing for Comedy Series for Netflixs Master of None, which premiered its second season this year. Aziz is the second Indian origin winner of an Emmy, after Archie Panjabis win in 2010 for The Good Wife. Lena Waithe becomes the first African American woman to win an Emmy for Best Writing. Thank you for supporting a little Indian boy from South Carolina and a queer black girl from the heart of Chicago, she said in her acceptance speech.

Aziz Ansari and Lena Waite accept the award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for Master of None. (REUTERS)

6:56 am IST: Ann Dowd is the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for Hulus Handmaids Tale. This is her first Emmy. She also played a supporting role in HBOs The Leftovers.

6:52 am IST: HBOs Last Week Tonight With John Oliver wins Best Writing for Variety Series. Its the shows second win in two years in the same category.

6:45 am IST: Alexander Skarsgard wins Best Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie for his terrifying turn as an abusive husband in HBOs Big Little Lies.

6:38 am IST: Jean-Marc Vallee wins Best Directing for a Limited Series or TV Movie for helming all 7 episodes of HBOs Big Little Lies.

6:35 am IST: Alec Baldwin wins Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of US president Donald Trump on SNL. Baldwin started out his acceptance speech night by ribbing Donald Trump, saying the president finally has his Emmy.The actors impersonations of Trump have propelled SNL to its best season in years, bringing in viewers and also Emmy glory. Baldwins win is the third win for Saturday Night Live during the show.

Alec Baldwin with his Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for Saturday Night Live. (REUTERS)

6:16 am IST: NBC institution, Saturday Night Live wins Best Outstanding Variety Sketch Series in a unusually political year for the show which lampooned the US presidential race.

6:13 am IST: Donald Glover wins Best Directing for a Comedy Series for his FX hit, Atlanta. Glover also writes, produces and stars in the show about the citys DIY rap scene. He became the first black man to win for directing a comedy series.

6:07 am IST: Laura Dern, who played a high society vamp in HBOs Big Little Lies, wins Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie.

6:03 am IST: Kate McKinnon wins Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for playing Hillary Clinton on Saturday Night Live. This is McKinnons second Emmy in as many years.

5:51 am IST: John Lithgow wins Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for playing former British PM, Winston Churchill in Netflixs lavish period piece, The Crown. The show is speculated to be one of the most expensive TV projects in history, with a budget exceeding 100 million. I thank Winston Churchill, I thank the Academy, and I thank you all, said the veteran actor.

5:47 am IST: Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer makes a surprise appearance, drawing reactions that ranged from utter shock (were looking at you, Anna Chlumsky) and sheepish embarrassment (Melissa McCarthy played a female Spicer on numerous occasions on SNL) the famously liberal Hollywood audience

5:44 am IST: Host Stephen Colbert kicks off the show with a lavish song and dance number - and a Chance the Rapper verse!

Host Stephen Colbert performs at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

You can check out the full list of winners here

Follow @htshowbiz for more
A ban was demanded on the long-running SAB TV comedy, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma, by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Sunday for allegedly portraying a series of blasphemous acts. Claiming that the show hurt their religious sentiments, SGPC chief Kirpal Singh Badungar said in a statement that the soap depicted a living character portraying tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh, which was against the Sikh tenets. The shows makers have now clarified their position and said the actor, Gurucharan Singh Sodhi, played Guru Gobind Singh ka Khalsa (a soldier of the 10th Sikh guru) and not Guru Gobind Singh himself.

In Episode 2287 of TMKOC, Sodhi was dressed up as Guru Gobind Singh Ji ka Khalsa. We request viewers to not misinterpret it in any other way, said a tweet on shows official handle.

The apex religious body of the Sikhs had earlier warned the channel and the director of the show from showing blasphemous content on small screen. No actor or any character can equate himself with the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh. Such an act is unpardonable, the statement said.

Earlier, talking to Bollywoodlife.com, Munmun Dutta who plays Babita on the show had said, Gurucharan is a staunch Sikh himself will never do and speak anything that goes against the sentiments of Sikhs all around the world. I clearly remember having a conversation with him about this particular sequence on the day of the shoot and he had mentioned that nobody is allowed to play Guru Gobind Singh ji and thus he is enacting the role of his Khalsa. And thats exactly what we shot and showed on TV. People who have raised objections about it have clearly not seen the sequence. I wish they had made the effort to see it first where the character Sodhi clearly states that he is his Khalsa and not him.

She also said that it was all a misunderstanding because when that particular scene started, he scroll introducing his character stated Sodhi as Guru Gobind Singh Ka Khalsa and apparently the Ka Khalsa got hidden behind the disclaimer scroll run by the channel.
At least 20,000 Islamist hardliners marched in Bangladesh on Monday in protest against the violence which has driven the Rohingya Muslim minority from neighbouring Myanmar across the border into squalid refugee camps.

White-robed protesters chanting God is great assembled outside Bangladeshs largest mosque before a planned siege of the Myanmar embassy in the capital Dhaka.

The turnout eclipsed a similar rally after weekly prayers last Friday, when 15,000 demonstrators urged the government to go to war against Buddhist-majority Myanmar over the genocide of Rohingya Muslims.

Police strengthened security before Mondays rally, deploying extra officers around Dhaka amid fears the demonstrators could turn violent.

The hardline Hefazat-e-Islami group had vowed hundreds of thousands of its followers would lay siege to the Myanmar embassy, but police halted the march before it reached the mission.

Supporters of the hardline Hefazat-e-Islam march towards Myanmar Embassy to protest against the persecution of Rohingya Muslims, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP)

Around 20,000 people joined the protest, deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Anwar Hossain told AFP.

There was tension but the crowd was slowly dispersing, he added.

Hefazat officials put the attendance figure much higher, with supporters from across Bangladesh pouring into the capital to rally.

Maolana Saifuddin, a 27-year-old teacher at an Islamic school outside Dhaka, said he was protesting at the barbaric genocide of the Rohingya by the government of Aung Sung Suu Kyi.

Well besiege the Myanmar embassy to send a message to the Myanmar government that we wont tolerate this genocide of our Muslim brothers in Arakan, Saifuddin told AFP, using the Bengali name for Myanmars westernmost state of Rakhine.

Another protester, Abu Raihan, told AFP it was his religious duty to protest the slaughter in Myanmar of fellow Muslims.

Supporters of the hardline Hefazat-e-Islam participate in a protest march towards the Myanmar Embassy against the persecution of Rohingya Muslims, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP)

The plight of the Rohingya, a Muslim minority who are reviled and denied citizenship in Myanmar, has roused emotion across the Islamic world, with protests held in Pakistan, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Rohingya in Rakhine have deep historic and linguistic ties with communities in the Chittagong region over the border, and images on social media purportedly showing abuses against the Muslim minority have aroused strong sympathy in Bangladesh.

Many homegrown Islamist groups are calling on the government to go to war with Myanmar and liberate Rakhine for the persecuted Rohingya minority.

The UN says more than 410,000 Rohingya refugees have poured into Bangladesh since a fresh outbreak of violence in Myanmars westernmost state on August 25.

Many of those crossing the border bring harrowing tales of rape, murder and arson at the hands of Myanmars security forces and Buddhist mobs.

Bangladesh already hosted at least 300,000 Rohingya refugees in squalid camps along its border with Myanmar before this latest influx.
A second powerful storm in as many weeks was bearing down on a string of battered Caribbean islands on Sunday, with forecasters saying Maria would strengthen rapidly into a major hurricane in the next two days and rip into the Leeward Islands on Monday night.

Marias strength was building as it approached the Lesser Antilles, the US National Hurricane Center said, estimating its winds at near 85 miles per hour (140 kph).

Maria is expected to become a major hurricane as it moves through the Leeward Islands, the forecaster said.

Maria is approaching the eastern Caribbean less than two weeks after Irma hammered the region before overrunning Florida.

That storm, one of the most powerful ever recorded in the Atlantic with winds up to 185 miles per hour (298 kph), killed at least 84 people, more than half of them in the Caribbean.

Army soldiers from the 602nd Area Support Medical Company gather on a beach as they await transport on a Navy landing craft while evacuating in advance of Hurricane Maria, in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands September 17. (Reuters Photo)

Hurricane conditions were expected for Guadalupe, Dominica, Martinique and St. Kitts, Nevis and Montserrat, and the hurricane center warned Puerto Rico to monitor the storm.

The British Virgin Islands and St. Martin, which was devastated by Hurricane Irma, were under a hurricane watch, as were the US Virgin Islands and Anguilla.

More than 1,700 Residents of Barbuda, where Irma damaged nearly every building, braced for Maria on Antigua, now under a tropical storm watch, said Ronald Sanders, the countrys ambassador to the United States.

Puerto Rico has already begun preparations for Maria, which by Tuesday was expected to unleash powerful winds on the US territory, already dealing with a weakened economy and fragile power grid.

Damage to Puerto Rico could also disrupt the disaster relief supply chain to other islands that were hit by Irma.

Puerto Rico is our lifeline, said Judson Burdon, a permanent resident of Anguilla who has helped coordinate supply shipments to the island. We had two volunteer flights cancel because of the weather that is coming.

The planned deliveries consisted of plywood, power tools and screws to close up windows and doors that remain open on the island, where 90 percent of structures were damaged.

As of 11 p.m. (0300 GMT Monday), the center of the storm was about 100 (165 km) northeast of Barbados and about 210 miles (340 km) east-southeast of the Leeward island of Dominica.

The hurricane center also issued a tropical storm watch for portions of the US mid-Atlantic and New England coast by Tuesday as a second hurricane, Jose, moved slowly north from its position in the Atlantic Ocean about 315 miles (510 km) southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.

The eye of Jose, with top sustained winds of 90 miles per hour (150 kph), should remain off the US East Coast, the NHS said.

Even so, by Tuesday it could bring tropical storm conditions from Fenwick Island, Delaware, to Sandy Hook, New Jersey, and from East Rockaway Inlet on New Yorks Long Island to the Massachusetts island of Nantucket.

Up to five inches (13 cm) of rain could fall over parts of the area, and the storm could bring dangerous surf and rip currents as well.
British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted a long-awaited state visit by Donald Trump will go ahead as planned despite a diplomatic spat triggered by the US presidents comments after a terror attack in London.

Speaking to ABC News from Downing Street in an interview that aired Sunday, she added that London was in talks with internet giants Google and Facebook about doing more to assist authorities in tracking extremists using the web to plan attacks, an issue she said she would take up at the UN General Assembly next week.

After an explosion in the London subway early Friday injured more than 20 people, Trump on Twitter blamed sick and demented people who were in the sights of Scotland Yard.

Britons expressed outrage at the presidents suggestion that British authorities had advance knowledge about the attackers. May herself told journalists Friday that I never think its helpful for anybody to speculate on what is an ongoing investigation.

Trumps keenness to underline a series of attacks in Britain has led to repeated outcry across the Atlantic that has helped indefinitely delay his much-vaunted state visit.

But in her ABC interview, May made clear the planned visit is still on.

Her Majesty the Queen issued the invitation, she said. The president has accepted it. Its just a question of getting dates to -- and sorting out the logistics.

May said the point of the historic special relationship between the two countries was that when we do disagree were able to say so -- and pretty bluntly.

As an example, she cited the sharp differences over the Paris climate change agreement. Ive made very clear I was dismayed when America decided to pull out of that, she said, adding that she hoped the US administration would be able to find a way for America to come back into the agreement.

After reports that some European officials believed the US might return to the agreement, the White House said Saturday that it would do so only if it could negotiate more favourable terms.

May also emphasized the need to block terrorists from using the internet for planning attacks and for the spread of extremism, of hatred, of propaganda.

She said British authorities were working with internet giants like Facebook and Google about doing more.

Those companies and others, including YouTube and Twitter, have formed a Global Internet Forum to Combat Terrorism, working with governments and other groups.

Asked, if she agreed with a tweet from Trump urging a tougher travel ban to curb terrorism, May said, I think what is important is that were able to have the powers to look into people, to identify people who may be wanting to cause us harm. And then to act accordingly.
Editors note: Part of an ongoing examination of threats to First Amendment freedoms by The Associated Press, the American Society of News Editors and Associated Press Media Editors.

There are cracks in the curtains President Donald Trump tried to draw around the government early in his presidency, but the slivers of light arent making it easier to hold federal officials accountable for their actions.

Trump still refuses to divest from his real estate and hotel empire or release virtually any of his tax returns. His administration is vigorously pursuing whistleblowers. Among scores of vacant senior jobs in the government is an inspector general for the Department of Energy  led by Secretary Rick Perry, former governor of Texas  as it helps drive the regions recovery from Hurricane Harvey.

Rebuilding from the deadly storm seems certain to be a $100 billion-plus endeavor involving multiple federal departments and an army of government contractors. If the ghosts of Katrina, Sandy and other big storms are guides, the bonanza of taxpayer dollars is a recipe for corruption. And that makes transparency and accountability all the more critical for a president who has bristled at the suggestion of either one.

This is an administration that wants to do things their own way and a president that wants to do things his own way, said Rick Blum, director of News Media for Open Government, of which The Associated Press is a member. (Trump) is frustrated by the institutions our founders established. And hes going to have to learn that the public deserves a free and independent press.

To be sure, Trump has not backed off his fury with the media or his branding of reporters as enemies of the people who want to harm the country. He still calls revelations he doesnt like fake news. And he tweets untruths himself, including that he witnessed Harveys devastation first hand during his first visit to Texas on the edges of the disaster zone.

Still, a new slate of top aides, including White House Chief of Staff John Kelly and presidential spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders, seems to have opened pinpricks of light and lowered the temperature in the daily White House briefing.

Trump has let fade his threat to scrap the daily question-and-answer sessions in favor of written questions and responses since the dismissals of Reince Priebus, Sean Spicer and Steve Bannon from his inner circle. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos gave the AP an interview about education policy.

President Trump and his administration are committed to transparency and accountability throughout the government, the White House said in a statement issued Saturday to The Associated Press. The administration is responsive to public records requests, instituted new lobbying standards for political appointees  including a five-year ban on lobbying and a lifetime ban on lobbying for foreign countries  and expanded and elevated ethics within the White House Counsels office.

Still, questions persist about how committed the administration will be in making its actions transparent. This past week, open government and First Amendment advocates criticized the administrations response to a lawsuit that sought the visitor logs for the presidents Mar-A-Lago resort in Florida.

They said its important for the public to know who has access there to the president, who has made seven trips to his property this year.

The watchdog groups received only a list of 22 Japanese officials who had joined their countrys prime minister at the property during a February trip. In a letter, Justice Department officials said any records beyond those names were related to the presidents schedule and were therefore exempt from public records laws.

The government believes that Presidential schedule information is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act, they wrote. Noah Bookbinder, executive director of the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, described the move as spitting in the eye of transparency.

The Trump administration also has served notice that the executive branch could ignore some information requests from Congress, with a few exceptions.

Nonsense, said Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, an outspoken advocate of open government. Shutting down oversight requests doesnt drain the swamp, Mr. President. It floods the swamp.

Members of the administration have resisted being questioned. Some White House briefings were declared off-limits for video or audio. And in July, during the presidents second overseas trip, the administration insisted that a briefing by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin be off-camera. Trump also barred the U.S. media from his White House meeting with Russian officials, only to see photos of the Oval Office session surface in the Russian media.

The signs of struggle included the resignation in July of the governments ethics chief, Walter Shaub, after an extraordinary public fight with Trumps lawyers over potential conflicts of interest. Shaub, an Obama appointee leaving short of the end of his five-year term, had tried unsuccessfully to get Trump to fully divest from his business empire.

As with most new administrations, Trumps Justice Department has not issued its own its official policy on complying with one of the cornerstones of open government, the federal Freedom of Information Act.

Trump and his closest aides appear to have little respect for the very processes of government, and therefore little appreciation of the publics need to know of them as part of our democratic process, said Daniel J. Metcalfe, the founding director of the Justice Departments Office of Information and Privacy who teaches secrecy law at American University.

Trumps core supporters seem to be OK with this, he said, as if new degrees of federal government secrecy are actually better for the country.

Its not just the White House.

Proceedings of the House and Senate are televised live, as are many congressional hearings. But Senate leaders this year briefly tried to bar reporters from conducting televised hallway interviews without permission. And Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell opted to privately negotiate an ultimately unsuccessful bill to overhaul Obamas Affordable Care Act. Closing the beginning of the bill-writing process is unusual, though when the original bill was passed, negotiators closed it at the end, to get a final deal.

The Obama administration in its final year spent a record $36.2 million on legal costs defending its refusal to turn over federal records under FOIA, an Associated Press analysis showed earlier this year. The Obama administration also set records for outright denial of access to files, refusing to quickly consider requests described as especially newsworthy, for example.

But Obama signed two executive orders and a set of memoranda on his first day in office that directed the government to revert toward openness. One directive reversed policy by President George W. Bush that made it easier for government agencies to deny Freedom of Information Act requests for records. Another effectively repealed a Bush executive order that allowed former presidents or their heirs to keep records secret by claiming executive privilege.

Part of the current administrations resistance to openness may stem from Trumps background running a family business.

If you come out of the private company background and you didnt have to report to anybody, you basically got to run your own shop and you can just fire people. Thats been Donald Trumps life, said Richard Painter, who served as George W. Bushs White House ethics lawyer. Then at age 70, suddenly hes in a job where hes accountable to other people; theres a Constitution and a set of rules here.
China and Russia began naval drills near North Korea on Monday amid continuing tensions over the isolated states nuclear ambitions and ahead of a United Nations General Assembly meeting this week, where North Korea is likely to loom large.

North Korea launched a missile over Japan last Friday, its second in the past three weeks, and conducted its sixth and by far most powerful nuclear test on September 3, in defiance of international pressure.

The official Xinhua news agency said the joint exercises will take place between Peter the Great Bay, just outside of the Russian far eastern port of Vladivostok, not far from the Russia-North Korea border, and into the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, to the north of Japan.

The drills are the second part of China-Russian naval exercises this year, the first part of which took place in the Baltic in July. The report did not directly link the drills to current tensions over North Korea.

Both China and Russia have repeatedly called for a peaceful solution and talks to resolve the issue.

The international community must remain united and enforce sanctions against North Korea after its repeated launch of ballistic missiles, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in an editorial published in the New York Times on Sunday.

Such tests are in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and show that North Korea can now target the United States or Europe, Abe said.

Diplomacy and dialogue will not work with North Korea and concerted pressure by the entire international community is essential to tackle the threats posed by North Korea, Abe wrote.

A week ago, the 15-member U.N. Security Council unanimously adopted its ninth sanctions resolution since 2006 over North Koreas nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

On Monday, the official China Daily said sanctions should be given time to bite but that the door must be left open to talks.

With its Friday missile launch, Pyongyang wanted to give the impression that sanctions will not work. Some people have fallen for that and immediately echoed the suggestion, pointing to the failure of past sanctions to achieve their purpose, it said in an editorial.

But that past sanctions did not work does not mean they will not. It is too early to claim failure because the latest sanctions have hardly begun to take effect. Giving the sanctions time to bite is the best way to make Pyongyang reconsider.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said on Sunday the U.N. Security Council has run out of options on containing North Koreas nuclear programme and the United States may have to turn the matter over to the Pentagon.

China has urged the United States to refrain from making threats to North Korea. Asked about President Donald Trumps warning last month that the North Korean threat to the United States will be met with fire and fury, Haley said, It was not an empty threat.

Pyongyang has launched dozens of missiles as it accelerates a weapons programme designed to provide the ability to target the United States with a powerful, nuclear-tipped missile.

North Korea said on Saturday it aimed to reach an equilibrium of military force with the United States.
Almost everybody has heard of the United Nations. But how many people know what it actually does? Or how it works? Or why, as world leaders gather for the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, the institution has struggled to live up to the promise of its founders: making the world a better, more peaceful place?

Birth of the United Nations: When, where and why

The United Nations Charter was signed at a conference in San Francisco in June 1945, led by four countries: Britain, China, the Soviet Union and the United States.

When the charter went into effect on October 24 of that year, a global war had just ended. Much of Africa and Asia was still ruled by colonial powers.

After fierce negotiations, 50 nations agreed to a charter that begins, We the peoples of the United Nations.

Why is that opening line notable? Because today, the UN can, to some, seem to serve the narrow national interests of its 193 member countries  especially the most powerful ones  and not ordinary citizens.

These parochial priorities can stand in the way of fulfilling the first two pledges of the charter: to end the scourge of war and to regain faith in fundamental human rights.

Members of the New York City police department stand guard in front of the United Nations building in New York City. (Reuters File Photo)

High ideals on human rights

In 1948, the UN proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These include the right to not be enslaved, the right to free expression and the right to seek from other countries asylum from persecution.

However, many of the rights expressed  to education, to equal pay for equal work, to nationality  remain unrealised.

General Assembly: Prominent stage, limited powers

Each fall, the opening session of the UN General Assembly becomes the stage where presidents and prime ministers give speeches that can be soaring or cliched  or they can deliver long, incoherent tirades, such as the one given by Moammar Gaddafi, the Libyan strongman, in 2009.

The event offers plenty of star power, but critics contend that it is little more than a glorified gabfest.

For the rest of the session, the General Assembly is the arena where largely symbolic diplomatic jousts are won and lost. Hundreds of resolutions are introduced annually. While some of them earn a great deal of attention  like one in 1975 that equated Zionism with racism  they are not legally binding. (The assembly is responsible for making some budgetary decisions.)

In principle, nations small and large, rich and poor, have equal voice in the assembly, with each country getting one vote. But the genuine power resides elsewhere.

Security Council: Powerful but often paralysed

The 15-member Security Council is by far the most powerful arm of the UN It can impose sanctions, as it did against Iran over its nuclear program, and authorise military intervention, as it did against Libya in 2011.

Critics say it is also the most anachronistic part of the organisation. Its five permanent members are the victors of World War II: the US, Britain, China, France and Russia. The other 10 members are elected for two-year terms, with seats set aside for different regions of the world.

Efforts to expand the permanent membership of the council to include powers that have emerged since 1945  such as India, Japan and Germany  have been stymied. For every country that vies for a seat, rivals seek to block it.

The United Nations Security Council sits to meet on North Korea after their latest missile test, at the UN headquarters in New York City. (Reuters File Photo)

Any member of the permanent five  or the P5, for short  can veto any measure, and each has regularly used this power to protect either itself or allies. Since 1990, the US has cast a veto on council resolutions 16 times, many concerning Israeli-Palestinian relations. Russia has done so 17 times, including eight times over Syria.

The charter does allow the General Assembly to act if, because of a veto, international peace and security are threatened. But in reality, it is rarely done.

Problems keeping the peace

The Security Councils job is to maintain international peace. Its ability to do so has been severely constrained in recent years, in large part because of bitter divisions between Russia and the West.

The council has been feckless in the face of major conflicts, particularly those in which permanent members have a stake.

Most recently, its starkest failure has been the handling of the 6-year-old conflict in Syria, with Russia backing the government of President Bashar Assad and the US, Britain and France supporting some opposition groups. The Security Council has failed to take decisive action on Syria, despite reports of countless war crimes, and similarly failed to halt the conflict in Yemen, despite its contribution to an outbreak of cholera, with 600,000 cases reported so far. Most recently, the council has been confronted with mounting atrocities against the Rohingya ethnic group in Myanmar.

Also, North Korea, long an ally of China, has repeatedly ignored UN prohibitions against conducting nuclear tests, ratcheting up its arms program with a series of nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests.

Just days after the most severe sanctions to date were passed by the UN on September 11 in reaction to the Norths sixth and most powerful nuclear test, North Korea again conducted a missile test.

Secretary-general: Global reach, vague role

The charter is vague in defining the duties of the secretary-general, the UNs top official. He or she is expected to show no favouritism to any particular country, but the office is largely dependent on the funding and the goodwill of the most powerful nations.

The Security Council  notably the P5  chooses the secretary-general, by secret ballot, to serve a maximum of two five-year terms. This process makes it difficult for the role to be independent of the P5s influence.

United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres takes part in a news conference at the United Nations headquarters. (Reuters File Photo)

The secretary-general has no army to deploy, but what the position does enjoy is a bully pulpit. If the officeholder is perceived as being independent, he or she is often the only person in the world who can call warring parties to the peace table.

The current secretary-general, Antonio Guterres, a Portuguese statesman, took the reins this year. He was the UN high commissioner for refugees from June 2005 to December 2015.

His predecessor, Ban Ki-moon of South Korea, repeatedly revealed the limits of the offices authority during his 10-year tenure. For example, Ban was persuaded for two years in a row to keep powerful countries off a list of those whose military forces had killed and maimed children.

Since 1946, nine people have held the position of secretary-general. All have been men.

Whats next: Questions for the UNs future

When Guterres took on the role on January 1, he inherited a body facing the unenviable task of demonstrating the UNs relevance in a world confronting challenges that were inconceivable 72 years ago.

Here are some of the questions that will determine whether the organidations influence diminishes or grows:

 Can the Security Council take action against countries that flout international humanitarian law? And can the P5 members of the council look beyond their own narrow interests to find ways to end the scourge of war?

 Can peacekeeping operations be repaired so the protection of civilians is ensured?

 Can the UN persuade countries to come up with new ways to handle the new reality of mass migration?

 Can the secretary-general persuade countries to keep their promise to curb carbon emissions  and to help those suffering from the consequences of climate change?

 Can the UN get closer to achieving its founding mandate, to make the world a better, more peaceful place?

(An earlier version of this article first ran on Sept. 16, 2016.)
US President Donald Trump warned Monday that Washington will walk away from a nuclear deal it agreed to with Iran and five other nations if it deems that the International Atomic Energy Agency is not tough enough in monitoring it.

Iran, however, said the greatest threat to the nuclear agreement is US hostility.

The warning from Trump came in a message to the UN agencys annual meeting, being held in Vienna, that was read by US Energy Secretary Rick Perry.

The United States asserts that Iran is obligated to open its military sites to IAEA inspection on demand if the agency suspects unreported nuclear activities at any of them. Thats something Tehran stridently rejects, and Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi urged the agency and its head, Yukiya Amano, to resist such unacceptable demands.

Asserting that Iran is fully complying with terms of the accord, Salehi said the greatest threat to its survival is the American administrations hostile attitude.

But Trump, as quoted by Perry, suggested the deal could stand or fail on IAEA access to Iranian military sites, declaring we will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal.

Amano also has said the IAEAs policing authority extends to Iranian military sites, if necessary. But he said Monday that Iran is fulfilling the commitments it entered into under the deal, which took effect early last year and offers sanctions relief in exchange for limits on Iranian nuclear programs that could be turned toward making weapons.

Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Ali-Akbar Salehi attends the opening of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference at their headquarters in Vienna, Austria September 18, 2017. (REUTERS)

Amano on Monday repeated in his speech that Iran is now subject to the worlds most robust nuclear verification regime.

The US administration has faced two 90-day certification deadlines to state whether Iran was meeting the conditions needed to continue enjoying sanctions relief under the deal and has both times backed away from a showdown. But Trump more recently has said he does not expect to certify Irans compliance with an October deadline looming.

If Trump decides not to certify, Congress will then have 60 days to debate whether to re-impose sanctions.

On Sunday Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Tehran would not submit to US bullying.

The corrupt, lying, deceitful US officials insolently accuse the nation of Iran... of lying, whereas the nation of Iran has acted honestly and will continue on this path until the end in an honest manner, said Khamenei.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (Reuters File Photo)

The nuclear deal is expected to be a major topic of discussion at the general assembly of the United Nations starting this week in New York.

The gathering in Vienna also saw as expected the Japanese Amano, 70, appointed to serve a third four-year term as IAEA director general.
A crying Rohingya mother in a yellow headscarf cradling her five-week-old infant son who died after their boat capsized is one of the most powerful Reuters images of Muslim refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar.

Hamida, her husband Nasir Ahmed and their two young sons were among 18 refugees on a small fishing boat crossing the Bay of Bengal to the Bangladesh village of Shah Porir Dwip.

As they neared the shore, the boat capsized and they were tossed into the murky water.

Reuters photographer Mohammad Ponir Hossain was taking pictures of exhausted refugees on the beach when he heard an autorickshaw driver shouting that a boat had capsized.

I rushed to the spot and found people crying over the dead body of a child, Ponir said.

He took a picture of Hamida, cradling the tiny pale body of her child, Abdul Masood. He appears to have died as the survivors scrambled through the crashing waves to shore.

Another picture showed the anguish on the face of Nasir Ahmed as he carried his son away from the crowd.

Nasir Ahmed cries as he holds his son, in Teknaf, Bangladesh. (Reuters Photo)

The couples other son survived the accident.

Around 400,000 Rohingya have arrived in Bangladesh in less than three weeks and people are still arriving, by land and sea, after attacks by Rohingya militants sparked a fierce counteroffensive by Myanmars army.

Waves crash into a boat, which capsized with a group of Rohingya refugees at Shah Porir Dwip, in Teknaf, Bangladesh. (Reuters Photo)

Senior United Nations officials have described the violence as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

Hamidas family was among tens of thousands of Rohingya who embarked in a rickety fleet of small wooden fishing boats on the crossing from Myanmars coast to southern Bangladesh, a journey that can take up to five hours.

They are so desperate that they are risking their lives to escape Myanmar. The pictures show what is going on here, Ponir said.
US President Donald Trump criticised the United Nations for bloated bureaucracy and mismanagement on his first visit on Monday to UN headquarters, calling for truly bold reforms so it could be a greater force for world peace.

Ahead of his maiden speech to the annual UN General Assembly on Tuesday, Trump hosted a short event to boost support for changes to the United Nations.

In recent years the United Nations has not reached its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement, while the United Nations on a regular budget has increased by 140% and its staff has more than doubled since 2000, Trump said.

The United Nations must hold every level of management accountable, protect whistleblowers and focus on results rather than on process, Trump said.

I am confident that if we work together and champion truly bold reforms the United Nations will emerge as a stronger, more effective, more just and greater force for peace and harmony in the world, Trump said in his first remarks at the UN in New York since his inauguration as president in January.

In a building where long statements are commonplace, Trump spoke for just four minutes. More than 120 countries were invited to attend Mondays reform meeting after signing on to a US-drafted 10-point political declaration backing efforts by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to initiate effective, meaningful reform.

Businessman Trump, who complained during his 2016 election campaign about the United States paying a disproportionate amount of money to the United Nations, made the point again on Monday.

We must ensure that no one and no member state shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden and thats militarily or financially.

The United States is the biggest UN contributor, providing 22% of its $5.4 billion biennial core budget and 28.5% of its $7.3 billion peacekeeping budget. The contributions are agreed on by the 193-member General Assembly.

Guterres, who also took office in January, told the meeting: To serve the people we support and the people who support us, we must be nimble and effective, flexible and efficient.

He agreed that UN bureaucracy was a problem that kept him up at night.

Our shared objective is a 21st century UN focused more on people and less on process, Guterres said. Value for money while advancing shared values  that is our common goal.

Trump also said that all peacekeeping missions should have clearly defined goals and metrics for evaluating success.

The United States is reviewing each of the UN peacekeeping missions as annual mandates come up for Security Council renewal in a bid to cut costs. The United States is a veto-wielding council member, along with Britain, France, Russia and China.

On Sunday night, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.

When asked if the UN refugee agency could perform its current missions if the United States cut its voluntary contributions to the budget, according to a pool report Grandi answered: I would say no.

US aid is vital to what we do to support refugees around the world and to find solutions to their situations, Grandi said.
India, Japan and the United States on Monday called for the respect of international norms and sovereignty and territorial integrity on connectivity initiatives, delivering a thinly veiled joint reminder to China on its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined, a statement released by the three countries said.

The remarks came at the end of a trilateral meeting that external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj held with Rex Tillerson and Taro Kono  her US and Japanese counterparts  on the sidelines of the UN general assembly meeting in New York. This was her first meeting with Tillerson.

The three ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, a clear reference to Chinas muscle-flexing in the South China Sea and its dispute with littoral states, including Japan.

India has opposed the BRI, a component of which  the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor  traverses Pakistan occupied Kashmir. The government has repeatedly called for respect of territorial integrity and sovereignty, and skipped a recent meeting hosted by China of the projects various stakeholders.

New Delhis concerns on the issue were reflected in letter  word for word  and spirit in the India-US joint statement issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump met in June.

At the New York meet, Swaraj also sought attention on proliferation linkages of North Korea, whose recent actions nuclear and missile tests have posed a direct and immediate danger to Japan and the US. She deplored the DPRKs recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, a release by the ministry said, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

The ministrys release did not name Pakistan, which supplied North Korea with key equipment for enriching uranium, including gas centrifuges. The father of Pakistans nuclear bomb, AQ Khan, confessed in 2004 to supplying nuclear technology and components to North Korea, Iran and Libya.
A lawyer for two Myanmar journalists detained in Bangladesh while reporting on the influx of thousands of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar said on Monday he had been denied access to them amid concern over their well-being.

The journalists, Minzayar Oo and Hkun Lat, were detained more than a week ago in Coxs Bazar border district of Bangladesh, where refugees are arriving from Myanmar to escape a military offensive against insurgents that the United Nations has described as ethnic cleansing.

Bangladesh police said the pair was detained for engaging in journalistic work for a German magazine while on tourist visas. On Thursday, a court refused them bail.

Jyotirmoy Barua, their lawyer, said he had gone to the prison to meet them about a petition he planned to file in a higher court seeking their release.

But prison authorities refused him permission and did not say why, he said, adding he had asked for court and police documents to prepare an appeal on behalf of the two.

Myanmar has said it is seeking information about the two through diplomatic channels.

More than 410,000 refugees from Myanmar have poured into Bangladesh since August 25, when attacks by Rohingya militants on security posts triggered a Myanmar Army operation in response.

Myanmar denies ethnic cleansing, saying its forces are conducting a legitimate campaign against terrorists.

Germanys GEO magazine, which had assigned Minzayar Oo to cover the Rohingya crisis, said he travelled to Bangladesh on September 6 along with Hkun Lat, and was detained the next day.

We are very concerned that the lawyer is being denied access, Christoph Kucklick, editor-in-chief of GEO, said in a joint statement with Adrian Evans, director of Panos Pictures, of which Minzayar Oo is a member.

Even more disconcerting is that the authorities are stating that Minzayar Oo and Hkun Lat were detained on September 13 - whereas in reality they have been in police custody since September 7, the magazine said.

We need to know that they are well treated and physically unharmed.

Minzayar Oo is one of Myanmars most prominent photographers and has worked for several media outlets, covering the countrys emergence from military rule.

Hkun Lat is also a well-known photographer in Myanmar and has won prizes for his coverage of conflict in frontier regions.
Nepal on Monday held largely peaceful elections to local government bodies in Province no 2, which is considered the Madhesi heartland, with 73% of the voters casting their ballots.

Sporadic scuffles were reported in some districts but the polls were not affected in any way, officials said. More than 60,000 security personnel were deployed across eight districts of Province no 2.

A total of 33 fake voters and 10 others who violate security regulations were arrested, chief election commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav told a news briefing immediately after voting concluded.

The Election Commission put the turnout at 73% and said polls were largely peaceful.

Over 70% vote cast in Province 2 - by no means a small achievement! Big congrats to ECN staff, security forces, voters of Province 2 & parties, election commissioner Ila Sharma tweeted.

Over 70% vote cast in Province 2-by no means a small achievement!Big congrats to ECN staff, security forces, voters of Province 2 & parties.  Ila Sharma- (@ila_home) September 18, 2017

The voting on Monday largely followed the trend in previous rounds of polls in May and June in the six other provinces, where an average of more than 70% cast their votes.

Since widespread protests erupted in the Terai region over Nepals new Constitution in 2015, the area has become the hotbed of Nepali politics. Recent floods in the region bordering India also killed around 130 people.

Mondays elections are being seen as a litmus test for Nepals big political parties, especially the Madhes-based parties.

Top leaders of Madhes-based parties voted in their respective areas. However, Mahanta Thakur, coordinator of the newly formed Rastriya Janata Party Nepal, was unable to vote as he fell ill and was moved to Kathmandu for treatment.

The elections to the local bodies in Province no 2 were another crucial step for implementation of the new Constitution against the backdrop of protests by Madhesi people since September 2015, demanding fair representation of the population of the Terai in state entities and correction of federal boundaries.

The elections went ahead only after Madhes-based parties, including the Rastriya Janata Party Nepal, agreed to join the process. They had boycotted the two previous rounds of voting in the other six provinces.

The polls were held to elect 6,636 representatives in 136 local bodies, including one metropolitan city, three sub-metros, 73 municipalities and 59 village councils.

A tough competition is expected among the big parties in Province no 2, while the main opposition CPN-UML is leading in the overall poll results in Provinces no 1, 3,4,5,6 and 7.
Police on Monday revealed the identity of one of the two suspects arrested in connection with the terror attack on a London Tube train that left 30 people injured, authorities said.

Pictures showed the 21-year-old Yahyah Farroukh being stopped by officers outside a fried chicken shop in the Hounslow area of west London on Saturday night before his arrest, reports the Guardian.

Metropolitan Police officers were still searching the area on Monday morning.

Officers were also searching an address understood to be Farroukhs home in nearby Stanwell, in Surrey, only metres from the outer boundaries of Heathrow airport.

Farroukh was the second person to be arrested after an unnamed 18-year-old man was stopped by officers near the port of Dover on the evening of September 15, hours after the attack that sent a ball of fire along a carriage of the eastbound District Line train from Wimbledon at the Parsons Green station.

The attack was claimed by the Islamic State terror group.

According to a Facebook profile thought to belong to Farroukh, he is originally from Damascus, in Syria, and studied English for speakers of other languages at West Thames college, the Guardian reported.

His profile also claims that he worked for an events company in London.

Local council leader Ian Harvey said the 18-year-old was an Iraqi orphan who moved to the UK when he was 15 after his parents died, the BBC reported.

The severe terror threat level means an attack is no longer imminent but was still highly likely.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said police had made good progress in the investigation and urged everybody to continue to be vigilant but not alarmed.

Assistant Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley said police had gained a greater understanding of how the bomb was prepared but said there was still much more to do.
Thousands of women of all ages marched on Sunday through Mexico City, demanding justice in the case of a young woman who was kidnapped and murdered.

It wasnt your fault, Mara, read a sign carried by one marcher, rejecting attempts to shift the blame on the victim, 19-year-old Mara Castilla, for having gone out alone at night.

Castillas body was found on Friday in the neighbouring state of Puebla, a week after she left a nightclub and got in a private vehicle.

Prosecutors say the driver kidnapped her and took her to a hotel, where he sexually assaulted her and strangled and beat her to death. Afterwards, he dumped the body in an area near the hotel.

A Mexican demonstrator carries a sign with the names of recent victims of femicide or gender-motivated murders in a protest against violence against women in Mexico City. (AFP)

The demonstrators marched from Mexico Citys Zocalo, or central plaza, to the attorney generals office where they staged performances denouncing the inaction of the authorities in the face of violence against women.

We live with fear and that is a reality, said Pixie, a 27-year-old teacher who covered her face in a fuschia colored ski mask to evoke the vulnerability many women experience.

Edgar Arriaga, a 22-year-old sociology student, criticized what he said was the criminalization of women.

It seems unjust to me to say that because you go out at night, because you like to party, or something like that, that its a justification for murder.

Castillas murder was the 83rd of a woman documented in Puebla this year by civic organisations and the 59th publicly acknowledged by the state attorneys office.
COOPERSBURG, Pa.  For Lehigh Valley farmers, the mantra if you can grow it, you can sell it, is no longer true.

Between growing and selling, farmers now have to worry about branding, marketing and muscling out major retailers.

In the last 10 years, sales directly from farms to consumers have remained flat, even though the number of markets nationwide has nearly doubled, according to the U.S. Agriculture Department. Its not that people dont want farm-fresh food  quite the contrary. Its that large retailers such as Whole Foods and Wegmans have joined the local-food bandwagon, making it harder for local farmers to compete.

Ten years ago, you could do anything and it was easy  local food was an easy sell, said Steve Shelley, co-owner of the 1.9-acre Godshall Farm in Coopersburg with his wife, Nicole.

Now, farmers are in uncharted territory, taking courses in marketing and rebranding to stay in business.

Whole Foods has been a central driver in steering big retail toward the local-food movement, said Neil Stern, a senior partner with retail consulting firm McMillan Doolittle. In the last five years, most supermarkets have followed suit in an attempt to appear more authentic and less pasteurized, he said. Some, such as Giant, Weis and Wegmans, even have proprietary relationships with local farms.

As a result, the market is becoming crowded with outlets selling local produce.

Its taken a little bit of the mystique away from the farmers market, he said. Its not a perfect substitute, but its a substitute.

A year ago, the Shelleys  whose business was then known as Gottschell Farm  sold vegetables, herbs and flowers at the Emmaus Farmers Market. They also operated a roadside stand and ran a community-supported agriculture system  a subscription service in which members pick up weekly or biweekly boxes of goods from the farm.

The Shelleys have since pulled out of the farmers market and opened their own: the Downtown Allentown Local Food Market. They spent the winter taking an exhaustive marketing webinar, which led them to rebrand their business with a new name and logo.

The stakes are high now that their competition consists of large retailers and delivery services.

Supermarkets have a huge budget  thats what we have to compete with, Nicole Shelley said.

Treating the farm as a business is the first step to competing in the bigger marketplace, said Brian Moyer, program assistant at Penn State Extension, who develops classes to teach farmers how to diversify their market platforms. There can be some hesitancy to change, he said, as many farmers come into their vocation for idealistic reasons.

A participant in several Extension programs, Charis Lindrooth of Red Earth Farm in Kempton became a self-made marketing manager  alongside her farmer husband, Michael Ahlert  through hours of webinars and consultations with local marketing firms. Sometimes her Friday nights consist of working on marketing strategy and writing the farms blog.

Its an ongoing and kind of scary, intimidating challenge for small farms. . We have to ramp up our game, she said.

Farmers markets are innovating, too. Sales at the Easton Farmers Market were down significantly last year  on average, by about 15 to 20 percent, said Megan McBride, the markets district director. In response, her team expanded childrens programming with music, yoga, and arts and crafts; added live music; and introduced a rewards card.

She encourages the vendors not to be dependent on the markets sales alone. And the market is taking steps to provide vendors with more outlets.

It recently applied for a grant through the Greater Easton Development Project, its parent organization, to study setting up a food hub in the Lehigh Valley. It would be a sister to the farmers market, McBride said, an avenue for farmers to sell their produce to restaurants.

If you look at the big picture, were just offering farmers more options, she said.

The Easton market as well as others across the Lehigh Valley are considering hubs along the lines of the Common Market in Philadelphia, which offers a central location for local produce and acts as a middle-man between farmers and retailers looking to buy local.

There is a demand for such intermediary markets, McBride said, with institutions such as prisons and schools as interested in local produce as restaurants and grocery stores are.

Buy Fresh Buy Local Greater Lehigh Valley also is researching hubs and other ways to better collect and distribute locally grown food, outreach coordinator Allison Czapp said. She said hubs have been tried before in the region without success, but now demand for them and momentum are building.

In the Lehigh Valley, theres a real lack of infrastructure, she said.

Godshall Farm has a proposal in the works for a food hub in Allentown, which they were to present to City Center Investment Corp. The Shelleys envision a one-stop shop: grocery store, wholesaler and interactive experience in a brick-and-mortar location thats open every day. They hope to open the hub next spring.

Hubs can co-exist with farmers markets, where people go to do more than shop.

Hubs and supermarkets, Czapp said, cant replicate the experience of going to a farmers market, where you can see neighbors, listen to music and shake the hand that tended to the crop in the field. For shoppers, farmers markets are a pleasurable experience. For farmers, the markets should be part of a broader business strategy.

Czapp puts stock in farmers ability to adapt to changes in the market, as they have done for centuries.

Farmers are really innovative people, she said. Thats kind of their job description.
A new strategic highway in Tibet will link the region to Nepal and can be used for military purposes, state media reported on Monday, adding the road can help open up South Asia to China .

Experts said the 25-metre wide highway can be used by armoured vehicles and serve as a runway for military aircraft if required.

India is likely to be irritated by the development, the state media reported.

The Tibet highway between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday, a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border which experts said will enable China to forge a route into South Asia in both economic and defence terms, the Global Times tabloid said in a report.

The 40.4-km highway will shorten the journey between the dual-use civil and military airport and Tibet's second-largest city from an hour to 30 minutes.

The highway is expected to be linked to the China-Nepal railway in future, experts said.

As part of G318, the highway connects the border town of Zhangmu with Lhasa, the capital city of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. It can link with the future cross-border Sino-Nepali railway, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

The report added: The Sino-Nepali railway was part of a deal struck by Nepal deputy Prime Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara when he visited China in early September. The railway includes two lines: one connecting three of Nepal's most important cities and two crossing the border between China and Nepal.

Zhao said the railway line, which passes through the Chinese border town of Zhangmu and connects with routes in Nepal, will be the first rail link from China to enter South Asia.

Zhao told the newspaper: "Although the railway connection between China and Nepal is intended to boost regional development and not for military purposes, the move will still probably irritate India. India is always disgusted when neighbouring countries attempt to get closer to China.

Mahara said earlier this month that Nepal is fully committed to pushing forward cooperation with China under the Belt and Road Initiative. He was in China for a six-day official visit earlier this month.

"We have already signed the memorandum of understanding on participating in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China," Mahara told official Xinhua news agency.

According to Xinhua, the total highway mileage in Tibet touched 80,000 km in 2016, an increase of 19,000 km since 2011.
The more sanctions the United States and its allies impose on North Korea, the faster it will move to complete its nuclear plans, the reclusive nations official KCNA news agency said on Monday, citing a foreign ministry spokesman.

The latest sanctions imposed by the UN security council represent the most vicious, unethical and inhumane act of hostility to physically exterminate the people of the DPRK, let alone its system and government, the spokesman said on Monday, using the Norths official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

The UN security council unanimously passed a US-drafted resolution a week ago mandating tougher new sanctions against Pyongyang that included banning textile imports and capping crude and petrol supply.
Pakistan is ready with a tough diplomatic policy if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabads major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, according to a media report.

Pakistans new strategy comes after US President Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants.

A day after Trumps announcement, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson suggested that US could downgrade Islamabads status as a major non-NATO ally if it does not crack down on militants.

The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government has prepared a three-option toughest diplomatic policy.

According to official sources, the policy includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non- cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

The last option may include a ban on using Pakistani land for NATO supplies to Afghanistan, according to the newspaper.

However, the policy will be implemented after the approval of the National Security Committee.

Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan are expected to sort out their differences during the meetings between their leaders on the sidelines of UN General Assembly session starting tomorrow.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is expected to meet US Vice President Mike Pence while the foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet.
President Vladimir Putin observed Russias biggest war games in years on Monday, watching as his forces successfully repelled an imaginary enemy and launched a tank-led counter offensive, part of an exercise that has rattled the West.

NATO officials say they are monitoring the Zapad-2017 (West-2017) war games with calm and confidence, but many are unnerved about what they see as Moscow testing its ability to wage war against the West. Russia says the exercise is rehearsing a purely defensive scenario.

Putin, commander-in-chief of Russias armed forces, sat in a command centre flanked by his defence minister and the chief of his General Staff, and used binoculars to peer through a cold drizzle at the simulated conflict unfolding before his eyes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, speaks to Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, left, as Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov, second right, looks on during a military exercise at a training ground at the Luzhsky Range, near St. Petersburg, Russia, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (AP)

The Russian leader has appeared at similar events in the past, sometimes donning a military uniform, and uses them to bolster his image among Russians as a robust defender of the countrys interests on the world stage.

This time, the 64-year-old president, who is widely expected to run for re-election in March, wore a dark suit and looked relaxed as the firing range in front of him, in the Leningrad region, was briefly transformed into a war zone.

Tracer bullets lit up the murky skyline, battle tanks churned across muddy terrain, shells exploded, helicopters fired missiles, planes roared overhead and hundreds of paratroopers and armoured vehicles were dropped from the skies.

The paratroopers, inserted behind the lines of their imaginary enemy, then waged war against what the defence ministry called illegal armed formations.

The over-arching Zapad war games, which began on Sept. 14 and run to Sept. 20, are taking place in western Russia, Russias exclave of Kaliningrad, and Belarus, a Russian ally which borders Ukraine as well as NATO member states Poland, Latvia and Lithuania.

A multiple rocket launcher system fires during the Zapad-2017 war games, held by Russian and Belarussian servicemen, at an undisclosed location in Belarus, September 17, 2017. (REUTERS)

Moscow says almost 13,000 Russian and Belarussian service personnel are taking part, as well as around 70 planes and helicopters. It says almost 700 pieces of military hardware are being deployed, including almost 250 tanks, 10 ships and various artillery and rocket systems.

NATO officials have said they believe the exercises involve more troops than Moscow has disclosed, however, and have complained about what they say is the lack of transparency about the exercise, an allegation Russia rejects.

As part of the same drills, Russia on Monday said it had successfully test fired a ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, hitting a target at a firing range in Kazakhstan about 480 km (300 miles) away.

Moscow says it is the West that threatens stability in eastern Europe because NATO has put a 4,000-strong multinational force in the Baltics and Poland, while the US Army has deployed 600 paratroopers to the Baltics during Zapad.

As a precaution, the United States has also temporarily taken over guardianship of the airspace of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, which lack capable air forces and air defence systems.
Russian oil major Rosneft will invest in gas pipelines in Iraqs Kurdistan, expanding its commitment to the region ahead of its independence vote to help it become a major exporter of gas to Turkey and Europe.

Kurdistan has been exporting oil independently from the central government in Baghdad since 2014 and Kremlin-controlled Rosneft joined the list of buyers this year, lending the semi-autonomous region hundreds of millions of dollars in loans guaranteed by future oil sales.

Now Rosneft is widening its investments to gas by agreeing to fund a natural gas pipeline in Kurdistan, Rosneft and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) said on Monday. Two sources close to the deal said the investments would amount to more than $1 billion.

Kurdistan is holding an independence vote on Sept. 25 as it seeks to part ways from Baghdad after years of disputes over budget revenues and the sharing of oil exports.

Erbil, the seat of the KRG in northern Iraq, needs money to fund the fight against Islamic state and a budget crisis caused by low oil prices.

Kurdistan has relied on oil pre-finance deals to improve its fiscal position but has struggled to develop its large gas reserves, which can require more investment to develop on a longer-term scale.

The arrival of Rosneft will speed up gas development, which has so far largely been driven by mid-sized companies.

For Rosneft, the worlds largest publicly listed oil company by production, the deal is a major boost to its international gas ambitions. Rosneft has long sought to challenge Gazprom, Russias gas export monopoly, in supplying gas to Europe.

For Turkey, it means the arrival of new supplies for its energy-hungry economy and the potential to become a major centre for gas supplies to Europe.

The pipelines capacity is expected to handle up to 30 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas exports a year, in addition to supplying domestic users. Kurdistan sits on some of the largest untapped gas deposits on Europes doorstep.

The volumes that Rosneft wants to help Kurdistan supply to export markets are big - they represent 6 percent of total European gas demand and one-sixth of current gas export volumes by Russia - by far the largest supplier of gas to Europe.

The pipeline will be constructed in 2019 for Kurdish domestic use, with exports due to begin in 2020.

Rosneft has previously loaned money to Kurdistan guaranteed by future oil sales and has also agreed to help the region expand its pipeline infrastructure.

Kurdistan is seeking to boost oil exports to one million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of this decade from the current 0.65 million bpd.
World leaders, including external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, have gathered in New York for the 72nd United Nations General Assembly session.

From US President Donald Trumps maiden UN address to Indias call for a permanent Security Council seat, heres all you need to know about the institution which work towards world peace:

United Nations General Assembly

UNGA is one of the six primary arms of the United Nations, which was instituted when a charter was signed by 50 nations led by Britain, the United States, Soviet Union and China after the World War 2.

It is the only arm of the UN in which all 193 member states have one vote and one representation. It covers a wide array of issues such as development, security and international law, passes non-binding resolutions and takes budgetary decisions.

Every year, the UNGA convenes in September at the General Assembly Hall in New York where world leaders deliver rousing speeches through the week. The UNGA assembled on September 12 this year.

Indias engagements

Swaraj, who arrived in New York on Monday, will kick off her official engagement with a trilateral meeting with her American and Japanese counterparts, Rex Tillerson and Taro Kono. She will address the UNGA on September 23.

The Indo-US-Japan meeting is aimed at enhancing cooperation between the three nations and assumes significance amid Chinese show of strength in the region.

Swarajs week-long stay in the US will focus on these issues: climate change, terrorism, people-centric migration and peacekeeping. She will take part in a meeting chaired by Trump to discuss terrorism on the sidelines of the 72nd UNGA session.

The external affairs minister is likely to press for banning Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar and a permanent seat for India at the UN Security Council, a NDTV report said.

Things to watch out for

 Trumps maiden UN address

The United Nations is just a 20 minute stroll away from Trump Tower, but it is an unfamiliar world for the tough-talking US President.

Donald Trump makes his maiden address to the United Nations on Tuesday, a spectacle closely watched at home and around the world, with the potential to move armies, markets and polls.

The US President has previously during his campaign trashed the United Nations as just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time.

 Climate change

The Trump administrations stand on withdrawing from the Paris climate deal remains unclear. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday the US was seeking ways in which we can work with partners in the Paris climate accord.

Trumps decision to withdraw from the landmark pact, signed by nearly 200 countries, was widely criticised. Trump had said in June the draconian pact had impinged on American sovereignty and unfairly favoured China and India.

When European environment officials suggested over the weekend that the United States might be ready to re-engage with the pact, the White House said that its position was unchanged, and that it could stay only if more favourable terms were achieved.

 North Korea, Rohingya crisis, terrorism

No official event addressing North Koreas relentless campaign to develop nuclear weapons capable of hitting the United States is on the UN agenda, but it is expected to be the No. 1 issue for most leaders.

Not far behind will be the plight of Myanmars Rohingya Muslims, victims of what UN chief Antonio Guterres calls a campaign of ethnic cleansing that has driven nearly 400,000 to flee to Bangladesh in the past three weeks.

Several terrorism-related events are also on the agenda. A side event on Wednesday on Preventing Terrorist Use of the Internet will be attended by senior representatives of major social media companies.
British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Monday she would press US President Donald Trump this week about a trade challenge by Boeing Co that could endanger thousands of aerospace jobs in Northern Ireland.

May and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau are worried about Boeings move against Bombardier Inc, which is the single largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland and Canadas most important aerospace firm.

May raised the issue with Trump in a call earlier this month and told reporters in Ottawa she would do so again this week on the margins of the United Nations.

I will be impressing on him the significance of Bombardier to the United Kingdom ... I want to see a resolution that protects those jobs in Northern Ireland, she said after talks with Trudeau where both leaders agreed to work together to make the point that Boeing should back down.

Mays minority Conservative government depends on the support of the small Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) for their majority control of the British parliament.

Boeing has accused Bombardier of dumping its new CSeries passenger jet in the US aircraft market, a charge the Canadian firm denies.

A US trade court is due to give a preliminary ruling on Boeings complaint on Sept. 25.

I am very happy to be working with Prime Minister May to explain to the American administration how Boeings actions are harmful to workers here in Canada, Trudeau told reporters.

Trudeau reiterated that Canada would not talk to Boeing about a proposed purchase of 18 F-18 Super Hornet fighter jets until the firm had dropped its challenge.

We wont do business with a company trying to ... put our aerospace workers out of business, he said.

May sidestepped a question as to whether the two leaders had discussed trying to jointly pressure Boeing by refusing to buy its planes.

Canada last month tried to end the dispute by suggesting it could withdraw a threat not to buy the Super Hornets if Boeing withdrew the challenge, sources said, but Boeing rejected the idea.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump discussed the situation on the Korean peninsula by telephone on Monday, state news agency Xinhua reported.

The White House said Trump and Xi Jinping committed to maximising pressure on North Korea, amid an escalating crisis over Pyongyangs ballistic and nuclear weapons programs.

The two leaders committed to maximising pressure on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions.

In a phone call the two men discussed North Koreas continued defiance of the international community and its efforts to destabilize Northeast Asia, the White House said.

The two also discussed Trumps coming China visit, Xinhua said.

Xi said China and the United States share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas at present, the report said.

He called on both sides to work closely to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of Sino-US relations, it said.

The Chinese leader said he is happy to maintain communications with the US leader on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern.

Trump will likely visit China in November as part of a trip that will take him to an ASEAN summit in the Philippines and an APEC summit in Vietnam.
US President Donald Trump, who is attending his first UN general assembly this week, began his remarks on how to reform the world body by promoting a property owned by him.

I actually saw great potential right across the street, to be honest with you, and it was only for the reason that the United Nations was here that that turned out to be such a successful project, Trump said, after he was introduced by his ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley.

He was referring to the Trump World Tower, a skyscraper in New York City that is home to many diplomats serving at the UN headquarters on the other side of the road.

Trump has been quite critical of the world body, referring to it as a a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. The United Nations was founded on truly noble goals, he said, adding that in recent years, it has not reached its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement. He pointed to the 140% rise in its budget and doubling of it staff since 2000.

The US  the largest UN contributor, with 22% of its $5.4 billion biennial budget and 28.5% of its $7.3 billion peacekeeping budget  has backed administrative reforms of the UN secretariat which were proposed by secretary general Antonio Guterres.

India too is supporting the reforms, but has said it was time for the UN to also move forcefully on governance reforms and bring the world body more in line with the changed world. In other words, expand the permanent membership of the security council; India is a leading claimant to a permanent seat.

World leaders gathered at the United Nations will anxious to hear what Trump says in his first remarks, as he inaugurates the general assembly debate on Tuesday. Previewing his remarks, national security adviser HR McMaster told reporters last week that the consistent message will to emphasise three goals: First, to promote peace. Second, to promote prosperity. And third, to uphold sovereignty and accountability.

But he said that the bedrock of all economic talks during the week will be this administrations ironclad commitment to free, fair, and reciprocal trade and access to markets.

Trump will also focus on North Korea, whose recent nuclear tests and a string of missile tests poses one of the biggest challenges faced by the world community today.

Asked if the speech will include direct messages to Iran and North Korea, Haley had told reporters: I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with the US being very strong in the end.
The US military flew advanced bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula and near Japan in drills with South Korean and Japanese warplanes on Monday, three days after North Korea fired a missile over Japan.

The United States often sends powerful military aircraft in a show of force in times of heightened animosities with North Korea. The North launched its latest missile as it protested against tough new UN sanctions over its sixth nuclear test on September 3.

Mondays flyovers involved two B-1Bs and four F-35Bs from the US military and four F-15K fighter jets from South Korea, according to the South Korean and US militaries. The US and South Korean planes flew across the Korean Peninsula and practised attacks by releasing live weapons at a firing range in South Korea, the U.S. Pacific Command said in a statement.

The US warplanes also conducted formation training with Japanese fighter jets over waters near the southern island of Kyushu, according to the Pacific Command.

Since Kim Jong Un took power in North Korea in late 2011, his nation has tested weapons at a torrid pace. The country flight-tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles in July. Its nuclear test in September was its most powerful to date.

Many experts say its only a matter of time until Kim achieves his stated objective of possessing reliable nuclear-tipped missiles capable of striking anywhere in the mainland US.

State media on Saturday quoted Kim as saying that North Koreas final goal is to establish the equilibrium of real force with the US and make the US rulers dare not talk about military option for the North.

Alarmed by North Koreas advancing weapons programs, many conservatives in South Korea have called for the reintroduction of US tactical nuclear weapons in the South. But the liberal-leaning government of President Moon Jae-in said it has no intention of requesting that the US bring back such weapons.

South Korean defence minister Song Young-moo told lawmakers on Monday that it is not proper to reintroduce US nuclear weapons. He previously said the idea should be deeply considered by the allies, inflaming already-heated debate on the issue.
US President Donald Trumps childhood home in New York had some new occupants over the weekend  refugees who shared their stories as a way to draw attention to the refugee crisis as the United Nations General Assembly convenes this week with Trump in attendance.

The three-story Tudor-style home in Queens that Trumps father, Fred, built in 1940 is now a rental available on Airbnb that anyone can stay in for $725 a night. It was auctioned off to an unidentified buyer in March for $2.14 million, its second time going up for auction.

The international anti-poverty organisation Oxfam rented it Saturday and invited four refugees to talk with journalists. The Republican presidents administration issued travel bans on people from six Muslim-majority countries and all refugees. After various court challenges, the Supreme Court last week allowed the restrictive policy on refugees to remain temporarily. The justices will hear arguments on the bans October 10.

We wanted to send a strong message to Trump and world leaders that they must do more to welcome refugees, said Shannon Scribner, acting director for the humanitarian department of Oxfam America.

Trump lived in the house on a tree-lined street of single-family dwellings until he was about 4, when his family moved to another home his father had built nearby.

In an upstairs bedroom, Eiman Ali, 22, looked around at the dark wood floors and a copy of the book Trump: The Art of the Deal on a nearby table and wondered about the homes previous resident.

Knowing Donald Trump was here at the age of four makes me think about where I was at the age of four, said Ali, her smiling face framed by a dark gray hijab. Were all kids who are raised to be productive citizens, who have all these dreams and hopes.

Ali was three when she arrived in the United States from Yemen, where her parents had fled when war broke out in their native Somalia. Ali said she remembered Trump as an entertaining character on The Celebrity Apprentice, but has since changed her opinion.

To have someone so outspoken against my community become the president of the United States was very eye-opening and hurtful because I have invested a lot in this country, she said.

Down the hall, Ghassan al-Chahada, 41, a Syrian refugee who arrived in the United States with his wife and three children in 2012, sat in a room with bunk beds and a sign on the wall that said it likely was Trumps childhood bedroom.

Before the conflict began in Syria we had dreams of coming to America, al-Chahada said. For us it was a dream come true.

Al-Chahada said his life changed when Trump signed the ban that barred people from Syria and five other countries, from entering the United States.

I had hopes I would get my green card and be able to visit my country, al-Chahada said. But since Trump was elected I dont dare, I dont dare leave this country and not be able to come back.

He looked out the window into the front yard and thought about what he would say to the president.

I would advise him to remember, to think about how he felt when he slept in this bedroom, al-Chahada said. If he can stay in tune with who he was as a child, the compassion children have and the mercy, I would say hes a great person.
President Donald Trumps top economic adviser said at the United Nations on Monday the United States had not changed its plans to withdraw from the Paris climate pact without a renegotiation favourable to Washington, with little appetite for such a step in the international community.

Trump in June announced his decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris climate agreement, saying it would put US industries at a disadvantage, cost US jobs, weaken American national sovereignty and put the country at a permanent disadvantage to the other countries of the world.

We made the presidents position unambiguous, to where the president stands, where the administration stands on Paris, Gary Cohn said after the informal breakfast meeting with ministers from about a dozen countries on the sidelines of the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations.

In a statement issued after the meeting, a White House official said: We are withdrawing from the Paris Agreement unless we can reengage on terms more favourable to the United States. This position was made very clear during the breakfast.

US officials attended a Montreal meeting on Saturday of ministers from more than 30 of the nations that signed the climate change agreement. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump administration officials had said Washington would not pull out of the agreement and had offered to re-engage.

There was some confusion over the weekend and I think we removed all the confusion, Cohn, director of the National Economic Council, told reporters, adding that he was referring to the meeting in Montreal.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday that the United States could remain in the Paris climate accord under the right conditions.

Cohn, who is overseeing the issue for Trump, on Monday declined to elaborate on suitable terms that the United States would consider to remain in the climate change pact.

The mood was good, Cohn said of the meeting. Very constructive. Everyone wants to work together. Everyone wants to understand everyones position. I think everyone has a understanding where we all want to get to.
A racially mixed crowd of demonstrators locked arms and marched quietly through downtown St. Louis Monday morning to protest the acquittal of a white former police officer in the killing of a black suspect, following another night of unrest and more than 80 arrests.

The latest action follows three days of peaceful protests and three nights of violence in the city that has been rocked since Friday, when a judge announced he found Jason Stockley not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith.

Hundreds of riot police mobilized downtown late Sunday, arresting more than 80 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism. The arrests came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

Im proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight, Interim Police Chief Lawrence OToole said at a news conference early Monday.

People continue to march after the not guilty verdict in the murder trial of Jason Stockley, a former St. Louis police officer, charged with the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith, who was black, in St. Louis, Missouri, US, September 17, 2017. (REUTERS)

Earlier Sunday, more than 1,000 people had gathered at police headquarters then marched without trouble through downtown St. Louis, the posh Central West End, and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City. Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St. Louis County.

By nightfall, most had gone home. The 100 or so people who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched back toward downtown. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels, and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers.

One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital. His condition wasnt known.

Soon afterward, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, and police scoured downtown deep into the night, making arrests and seizing at least five weapons, according to OToole. Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a city boulevard chanting whose street, our street  a common refrain used by the protesters  after clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

Were in control. This is our city and were going to protect it, OToole said.

Mayor Lyda Krewson said at the same Monday news conference that the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive and that destruction cannot be tolerated.

Protesters stage a "die-in" during a peaceful rally outside the police headquarters after the not guilty verdict in the murder trial of Jason Stockley, a former St. Louis police officer charged with the 2011 shooting of Anthony Lamar Smith, in St. Louis, Missouri, US September 17, 2017. (REUTERS)

Early Monday, more than 150 protesters marched arm-in-arm, some carrying signs, to city hall. Police turned traffic away as the marchers blocked a busy St. Louis street during the rush hour crush. Once at city hall, they found their voices, chanting: I know that we will win. The protesters then marched four blocks to a city court building, where they chanted again, then dispersed. The next protest is scheduled for Monday evening in University City.

The recent St. Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

Protest organizer Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out: While change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression has caused some to turn violent.

I do not say the (violent) demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best, Bell said.

Many protesters believe police provoked demonstrators by showing up in riot gear and armored vehicles; police said they had no choice but to protect themselves once protesters started throwing things at them.

Anthony Lamar Smith's mother, Annie, walks with family and protesters during a peaceful rally after the not guilty verdict in the murder trial of Jason Stockley, a former St. Louis police officer charged with the 2011 shooting of Smith, in St. Louis, Missouri, US September 17, 2017. (REUTERS)

Stockley shot Smith after high-speed chase as officers tried to arrest Smith and his partner in a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified he felt endangered because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smiths car after the shooting. The officers DNA was on the weapon but Smiths wasnt. Dashcam video from Stockleys cruiser recorded him saying he was going to kill this (expletive). Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockleys lawyer dismissed the comment as human emotions during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley murdered Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.

Stockley left the police department and moved to Houston three years ago.
Thank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.
Halawa and his three sisters have been acquitted of all charges at their trial today in Cario's special anti-terrorism court.

After the mass trial was adjourned for the 25th time in August, news of his acquittal was announced by Colm O'Gorman of Amnesty International, who wrote via Twitter:

Breaking: Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted of charges. Verdict just emerging in Cairo. Really, really good news. #FreeIbrahim  Colm O'Gorman (@Colmogorman) September 18, 2017

CONFIRMED: after 4 years of detention & mass trial involving 494 defendants, Irishman Ibrahim Halawa acquitted of all charges #FreeIbrahim  Colm O'Gorman (@Colmogorman) September 18, 2017

Ibrahim Halawa, moments after his acquittal. He jumped with joy, hugged fellow prisoners and had tears in his eyes. pic.twitter.com/P40IjYQLHK  Declan Walsh (@declanwalsh) September 18, 2017

Advertisement

Halawa had been imprisoned since 2013, during which time he was arrested for participating in a peaceful protest against the removal of the then-Egyptian President Muhammed Morsi.

His three sisters were acquitted of their charges while on bail.

Halawa is expected to be released in the coming days.
The sentencing of the 21 year old Irish citizen and is expected to be delivered today after the trial was adjourned for the 25th time last month.

Halawa has been held in a Cairo jail since 2013 after he and 494 other individuals were accused of murders, bombings, possession of firearms, desecration of Al Fatah Mosque and violence against police. Arrested while taking part in a protest against the removal of then-president Mohammed Morsi, Halawa may face the death penalty if found guilty.

Writing on Facebook last night, Halawa said, "My freedom is in the hands of an oppressor. This time I don't fear the trial... I've lost hope. Not being free but in the Egyptian government to free me. All I can do is pray."
The Irish government is being urged to intervene to ensure that the Jack B Yeats papers due for auction remain in the country for the benefit of the Irish people.

This collection up for auction comprises painting, drawings, prints, letters, furniture and personal items relating to famed painter, John Butler Yeats and his children.

Fianna Fail Spokesperson on Arts and Heritage, Niamh Smyth TD says that the Minister for Arts Humphreys Department should intervene and purchase the collection to ensure they remain where they belong.

This collection is of profound cultural and literary importance of Ireland and to the Irish people, and should be kept in the State," Smyth tells Hot Press.

It would be a sorry day for us all if this collection was allowed to leave the State when there is an opportunity to keep them in Ireland.

I am calling on the Minister to do the right thing and protect Irelands artistic legacy and ensure that either her Department or one of the agencies under its auspices purchases the collection for us all to enjoy
Social media was buzzing last week with complaints of airlines taking advantage of those trying to flee Hurricane Irma by charging exorbitant amounts for last-minute flights.

There was letter-writing from politicians and outrage from celebrities like Chelsea Handler, who called on her nearly 8 million followers to boycott Delta, referring to this tweet by Leigh Dow, a customer who can now be seen as patient zero for the scandal that followed:

"Shame on you delta. Jacking from $547 to over $3200 for people trying to evacute responsibly?" Dow wrote, sharing a screenshot that showed a flight price change from $547.50 to $3,258.50.

While the quoted price in this example was found through Expedia.com and not Delta.com, a Delta spokeswoman said, the customer reached out to Delta directly and found a happy resolution (Handler retracted her boycott call as well).

"I was very impressed their social media team was empowered to actually resolve the situation, not just pass me to someone else," Dow said. "The Delta rep who reached out to me on social media was the same rep who found the $349 ticket from Miami to Phoenix with one stop through Atlanta and booked it real time."

Delta and other airlines that were accused of wrongdoing denied the allegations.

"We did not change ticket prices when this happened, and as of last Wednesday afternoon, we were booked full for the rest of the week out of Florida," said Charles Hobart, a United Airlines spokesman.

But questions remained, such as: Why exactly were customers faced with such steep price hikes in the initial lead-up to Hurricane Irma, and is there anything travelers can do in the future to avoid such situations?

Were airlines raising fares?

The short, technical answer appears to be no. But that's not likely to make anyone who was in this unfortunate situation feel any better.

Price gouging refers to raising prices on goods and services to unfair levels, particularly during times of crisis, and many states have laws designed to prevent this practice.

When customers in Florida were looking to change their flights so close to their departure date and saw such dramatic increases, it sure looked like classic price gouging. But according to the airlines and even consumer advocacy experts, that term was being misused when describing the price jumps.

"It's just the computer programs doing what they do when it's last minute and seats are scarce," said George Hobica, founder of AirfareWatchdog.com.

The computer programs Hobica is referring to are also known as yield management systems, which are algorithms that consider supply and demand and set fares. When demand increases, the prices rise.

"There are no ethics valves built into the system that prevent an airline from overcharging during a hurricane," said Christopher Elliott, a consumer advocate and journalist. The outcry suggests that customers think that there should be.

"It seems that if we can program systems to be intelligent enough to respond to spikes and lulls in demand, then it doesn't seem a stretch to have the intelligence to adapt to declared states of emergency," Dow said.

Airfare data by Hopper shows that the price increases that took place during the lead-up to Irma were similar to those from the two weeks prior, suggesting that the price changes were typical for a week of departure flights.

Many airlines would eventually put price caps on one-way fares out of Florida, ranging from $99 to $399, add additional flights and provide humanitarian flights to bring needed supplies to and evacuate people and animals from affected areas.

What can travelers do?

The general rule of thumb when trying to book affordable airfare is that the earlier, the better. This rule is useless, though, when you're in an emergency rebooking situation.

"The problem with something like the hurricane is that everyone is trying to buy at the last minute," said Patrick Surry, a data scientist at Hopper. "There aren't really tools on the market right now that help consumers protect themselves in extraordinary circumstances like this one."

But while airlines have their algorithm, consumers have their Twitter.

"It seems like shaming the airlines on Twitter worked wonders so perhaps that's the best 'negotiation' tactic," Hobica said of the tweet that sparked the initial outrage over suspected price gouging.

Airlines do not typically negotiate airfare with customers, Surry said, "unless there's an extraordinary circumstance."

So if you find yourself stuck with an expensive ticket and shortly after your airline institutes a price cap, as many did for Hurricane Irma, "It's probably worth giving the airline a call to see what your options are," Surry said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Luis Fonsi could have saved "Despacito" for the end of his Sunday night set at Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. It's the biggest hit of his career -- and of the past several years, in any language.

Instead, Fonsi launched into the juggernaut about halfway into his set. He slowed down the intro sung by Justin Bieber on the chart-topping remix and sung it himself under a single spotlight. Then, the groove kicked in.

It completely changed the energy in the room. The crowd had been receptive and warm to that point. But every single person was on their feet. Dancing. Screaming. Snapping and Facebook-ing. It also warranted an outfit change for Fonsi, from all black into a bright denim jacket and red pants.

MR. WORLDWIDE: Luis Fonsi on the success of 'Despacito' and what comes next

And it was the perfect local kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs through Oct. 15 -- with the Spanish-language song that has shattered records all over the world.

Fonsi acknowledged the newfound success early in his hour-and-40-minute set.

"Is there anybody here who doesn't speak any Spanish?" Fonsi asked. There were a few pockets of screams. "We're gonna be doing more stuff in Spanish. I hope that's OK. I don't want you guys to feel left out.

"And also, as a side note, you need to learn a little more Spanish." (Story continues below.)

"Despacito" has indeed put Fonsi in a whole new circle of recognition. He's since hopped on tracks with DNCE and EDM star Afrojack and was a featured performer on the recent "Hand in Hand" telethon for hurricane relief.

But there were plenty of fans who cheered just as loudly for the other songs that have marked Fonsi's nearly 20-year career.

He was smart to to ping-pong between midtempos ("Tanto para nada," "Corazon en la maleta") and slower songs ("Nada es para siempre," "Imaginame sin ti") throughout the night. It ensured that things never settled into a routine. A quartet of dancers added some energy, too.

He kept the mood bright but acknowledged the city's troubles.

"I know you've been through difficult moments recently. I'm glad you came here to share the music with us," he said.

Fonsi has an emotive voice that bends easily around any rhythm. He was particularly impressive on booming power ballads "No me doy por vencido" and "Aqui estoy yo." And he has a gentle, sweet nature that makes him instantly likable.

He debuted a pair of new songs -- "Apaga la luz," "Echame la culpa" -- that point to a more aggressive, rhythmic sound. A new album is due this year.

Fonsi acknowledged his English-language success with runs through DNCE's "Kissing Strangers" and Charly Black's "Party Animal." (He's featured on recent remixes.) And he mashed up his own hits with elements from The Chainsmokers' "Don't Bring Me Down," David Guetta's "Without You" and Walk the Moon's "Shut Up and Dance."

He reprised "Despacito" at the finale, but it was unnecessary. Fonsi proved that he can soar far beyond a genre-hopping, record-smashing, unite-the-world hit.

But it was still just as much fun the second time around.
Sonequa Martin-Green is struggling to express her feelings.

It takes little time to realize that this is far from normal. The Alabama-born actress generally speaks in long, thoughtful streams of sparkling musicality that occasionally erupt into torrents of words, frequently punctuated by laughter and deliberate pauses in which she gathers her thoughts.

But at this moment, Martin-Green - who battled "The Walking Dead" as the ultimately doomed Sasha, courted laughs as Winston's prank junkie wife, Rhonda, on "New Girl" and threatened the very existence of Storybrooke as villainous Tamara on "Once Upon a Time" - is stumped and a little teary-eyed.

Sitting in a borrowed dressing room on the CBS Studio Center lot in Studio City, Martin-Green tried to process that she was about to boldly go where no black woman has gone before: to the center of one of TV's most beloved franchises as the lead in the new CBS All Access series "Star Trek: Discovery." (The show premieres Sunday on both CBS and the streaming service and will live on the latter for the remainder of its 15-episode first season.)

" 'Walking Dead' was such a big phenomenon in my life, and then to come from that phenomenon to this even bigger phenomenon - because of the length of time that it's been so important to our society," she says before trailing off, her eyes starting to well. "I always hope that I can completely encapsulate the way that I feel in words, and I can never quite get it because it does mean so much."

Set 10 years before the original series, "Star Trek: Discovery" revolves around Martin-Green's character, First Officer Michael Burnham, who moves from the USS Shenzhou, helmed by Capt. Philippa Georgiou (Michelle Yeoh), to the USS Discovery, commanded by Capt. Gabriel Lorca (Jason Isaacs), in a manner yet to be divulged. Although she is human, Burnham was raised on the planet Vulcan by Sarek (James Frain), aka Spock's father.

To "Star Trek" fans wondering why they have never heard of Spock (played by the late Leonard Nimoy) having a foster sister, Martin-Green offers assurance that it will be addressed. Somehow.

"(Executive producer) Alex Kurtzman actually spoke on that at Comic-Con, and he said, 'For those of you that are wondering, like, why was it never mentioned before? Give us a second. We're working on it,' " she says with a laugh.

More important is the nature versus nurture element to Burnham's journey.

"It isn't just that there is the Vulcan way of thinking in (her), it is that (she) was completely indoctrinated with the Vulcan way of life," Martin-Green says of her character, the first human to attend the Vulcan Learning Center.

"It's about acculturation versus assimilation," she says of Burnham, a xenoanthropologist who studies extraterrestrial life forms and experienced the culture shock of going from her human home to Vulcan.

"(Burnham's) entire upbringing was a fight to assimilate. No one can really verbalize how difficult of a journey that is," she says. "I hope that people who have had that journey in their lives, in whatever way, can relate and see truth in it and can be, maybe, even comforted by it."

While that sounds a bit lofty for a space adventure, those concepts have always been embedded in the DNA of the Gene Roddenberry series. And Martin-Green believes the franchise has served as a powerful entry point for viewers to ponder many big issues, from the tangible - war and discrimination  to the existential - the qualities of being human and the nature of existence.

"The fantasy opens them up for the societal themes and the interpersonal themes to get in," she says. "Because sometimes, when a story is on the ground, people are sort of closed off to it automatically when it's too close to their own lives. But when something is so far-reaching, it activates the imagination and then, little by little, the doorway of the heart is opened up."

And the 32-year-old can certainly relate to her character's culture shock. "I feel it more than anything in my upbringing in the South as a black woman," she says. After graduating from the University of Alabama, she traveled to New York, losing her accent but keeping her unique first name, to begin her career on the stage.

There, she met her husband, fellow actor Kenric Green, with whom she now has a toddler son. The couple eventually headed west to break into independent film and TV; she had guest and recurring parts on "Army Wives" and "The Good Wife" before landing her breakthrough role on "The Walking Dead" in 2012.

"It was not a baby step, it was an adult step," she says of her time on the wildly popular AMC series. "I almost see it as my post-graduate degree. It was roughly four years, five seasons. It was nothing but learning and education and preparation."

Her commitment to battling walkers almost kept her from boarding the USS Discovery. Originally, "Star Trek: Discovery" was to have been cast while Martin-Green was under contract to "The Walking Dead." But in a twist of fate, the turbulence behind the scenes of "Discovery" - which led to the departure of original showrunner Bryan Fuller - meant that production was delayed just long enough for her to take the role.

Her co-stars are grateful, waxing rhapsodic about not only Martin-Green's talent but also her spirit and work ethic as No. 1 on the call sheet.

"It's a responsibility, but it's also an opportunity to set a tone that is collaborative and inclusive, a tone of incredible warmth and diligence and all those things. And Sonequa has done that in spades," says Anthony Rapp, the Broadway vet who is playing the first openly gay character on a "Star Trek" series, science officer Lt. Paul Stamets. "She is so clearly ready for this moment in her life and in her career, and she's approaching it with incredible heart and commitment and gratitude and joy and openness and all the things that I would have ever hoped for."

"I think in real life, Sonequa Martin-Green might be part Vulcan, because she has a retention rate of words that is otherworldly," says Doug Jones, who plays Lt. Saru, a new alien life form to the "Trek" universe. "Sometimes, we'll get a script the day before it starts filming and she's got paragraphs of 'tech talk' to do, and it comes out of her with understanding the next day. This is just not normal. I sit in amazement watching her every day, I really do."
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Jo Beth Young, wife of Second Baptist Church pastor Ed Young, died early Sunday. She was 80.

She was a preacher's wife for 58 years who raised three sons who each became ministers in their own right. And although the Mississippi native never sought the spotlight, preferring a more behind-the-scenes role at the church, "Joby" as her husband called her, had her own unique ministry.

"She was indeed that 'great woman' behind the 'great man,'" Second Baptist Church officials said in a statement released Sunday.

Working alongside her husband, Young helped shepherd the church's growth from about 400 members when they arrived in Houston in 1978 to about 70,000 at six Houston-area campuses.

"She made an impact behind the scenes, extending the arms of our pastor and church to the membership and the surrounding community," church officials said.

Melanie Theiss and her family attended Second Baptist Church for more than a decade before moving.

"She was one of the finest people I've ever known. She was always down to earth and led by example," said Theiss, who now lives in Nacagdoches. "She was friendly to everyone, and she was always approachable."

Even with a growing family that eventually included sons Ed, Ben and Cliff, Jo Beth Young was kept busy as the pastor's wife. She faithfully taught Bible study classes - often going to multiple Second Baptist Church campuses - and helped mentor the wives of newly ordained deacons and pastors.

More for you 'Grace and good food' inspires cookbook

"Her Christian faith was the most important thing in her life. She was fiercely loyal to Dr. Young and his ministry," Theiss recalled. "I've never known her to have a cross word with anybody."

Mark Stouse was friends with the Young boys when they were all growing up in the early 1980s and was a frequent guest at their home.

"When I would show up, she'd always me a hug and ask about my parents. Then, she'd always hand me a snack to eat," said Stouse, who now lives in Arizona. "She was just an extraordinarily kind woman with a personal touch."

While Young had a gentle, giving demeanor, she also was a classic southern "Steel Magnolia," Stouse said. He recalled an incident when son Ed Young, Jr. brought home a bull shark he had caught fishing off Galveston. He hung the carcass from a basketball hoop in front of the home and blood dripped onto the driveway.

"Mrs. Young drove up about 20 minutes later, and let's just say, that didn't go over very well," Stouse said. "I had a lot of respect for her. She would brook no nonsense."

Ben Young and Cliff Young serve at the Houston megachurch their father still leads. Ed Young, Jr. is now the pastor of Fellowship Church in Grapevine. In a Facebook post, he wrote: "Today Mom went to be with Jesus. She was one of the greatest Christian women I have ever known."

In addition to her three sons, Jo Beth was the beloved "Mimi" to her 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

The former Jo Beth Landrum and H. Edwin Young grew up in Laura, Miss. and attended that city's First Baptist Church with their families. When anyone would ask how long they have been together, Joby would say, "We met in the church nursery."

They dated in high school and college. She attended Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Miss., church officials said.

Melanie Theiss said her Christian faith gives her comfort knowing that Jo Beth Young is now in Heaven with Jesus.

"But my heart goes out to Ed and their sons," she said. "They've lost their mother, and Dr. Young has lost his lifelong sweetheart."

A public memorial service will be held Sept. 21 at the church's Woodway Worship Center, 6400 Woodway.
Damaris Gonzalez was 9 when her family came to the United States. Twelve when she learned the word "undocumented." An estimated 600,000 immigrants lack documentation in Houston. Despite their numbers, many live life in the shadows, unable to participate in much of daily life and vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

"My life in Houston as an undocumented woman has not been the greatest," said Gonzalez. "My parents were afraid to even let me go on a school trip," for fear someone would discover her status and she would not return.

Advocates and individuals who work with immigrants who are living in the country without documentation said that fear has only increased in recent months at a panel discussion September 13 co-hosted by the Kinder Institute for Urban Research and the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative. Even as parts of SB4, the anti-sanctuary city bill signed into law in May, are on hold as lawsuits progress, many immigrants have been hesitant to come forward to report crimes, said Rachna Khare, the executive director of Daya, a group that works with mostly South Asian domestic violence survivors.

And in the wake of Harvey, some immigrants who lack documentation and their families stayed in flooded homes for fear that seeking emergency shelter would put them in more danger.

When the federal government announced its intention to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which offered temporary protections to some young people brought to the country as children, it sent still more fear through the community.

Gonzalez said receiving DACA was a turning point in her life that allowed her to seek steady employment and learn to drive. "It opened so many doors for me," she said.

With a potential deal in the early stages from Congress that would make DACA permanent, there's some hope for individuals like Gonzalez. But DACA recipients represent a small chunk of the overall population of immigrants who lack documentation, who continue to face challenges in Houston, even as they will be critical to the recovery and rebuilding of the city as Harvey.

GRAY MATTERS: Homer. Hospitality. And the DACA decision.

"Before Harvey, we were facing an extreme shortage of workers," said Stan Marek, head of the construction company Marek Brothers Systems, Inc. "I don't know where we're going to get the workers, legal or undocumented, to rebuild our city."

Workers who are living in the country without documentation are estimated to constitute half the state's construction workforce and are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation without legal recourse, said Marek.

Given the climate in Texas with SB4 still partially enacted, Marek said after Irma, such workers may think Houston is too risky. "Irma didn't help it all," he said, "because people will go to Florida, but they won't go to Texas."

Though workers who are paid cash often don't pay into Social Security, those using fake Social Security numbers do. By one estimate, immigrants who lack documentation contributed some $13 billion in payroll tax in 2010. "They love it," said Marek of the Social Security administration, "because they'll probably never pay it out."

Marek said he also knows of many workers who get Taxpayer Identification Numbers to pay income tax "because they want to do the right thing." That's in addition to paying taxes like sales tax.

Despite these contributions, workers who are living here without documentation have no protections. "They step on nails, they get electrocuted ... they don't get paid and who are they going to go to? The police? Forget it," said Marek. "People will take advantage of them."

And immigrants are vulnerable to exploitation beyond the workplace. Roughly 75 percent of abused immigrants, said Khara, have spouses who do not complete the proper paperwork for them. "When you're an immigrant survivor and your immigration status is tied to your abuser, it's just an especially heinous kind of abuse," she said.

Though the country offers a very limited number of visas for survivors of crime who are undocumented, Khara said they are too few and too complicated to be an option for most. And so many abused immigrants, especially immigrants who lack documentation, stay in abusive situations.

"The fear of deportation is stronger than the fear of abuse," explained Khare.

Such immigrants are particularly vulnerable in the legal system. Individuals facing deportation do not have the right to legal counsel and so many go through their proceedings without a lawyer. "Harris County is the place that deports the most immigrants in the country," said Andrea Guttin, an immigration lawyer with the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative.

The majority, she said, are unrepresented.

The advocacy group United We Dream, which Gonzalez is part of, was part of the push urging the city to join the lawsuit against SB4. The group also pushes for other reforms, including ending cash bail, better funding public defenders, emphasizing rehabilitation programs over jail time and considering the implications to an individual's immigration status when sentencing them in court.

"We are going to stay here, we are not going anywhere and we are going to keep on fighting for human rights and for liberation," said Gonzalez.

Leah Binkovitz (@leahbink), formerly of the Houston Chronicle, is now a staff writer for Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research. This story originally appeared on the Kinder Institute's blog, The Urban Edge.

Bookmark Gray Matters. It doesn't know where we're going to get the workers.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

More than four weeks after he vanished, a missing Baytown man has been identified as the victim in a gruesome slaying and dismemberment allegedly carried out by his machete-wielding girlfriend, according to court documents.

Cierra Sutton was arrested Thursday after police accused her of shooting a sleeping Steven Coleman and cutting him up with a machete before ditching his body in different dumpsters.

But as of Sunday evening, authorities said the one recovered body part had not yet been positively identified through DNA as Coleman.

Another Baytown incident:

Now Playing: FOX 26 News Reporter John Donnelly Video: KRIV

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Baytown man surrenders after shooting wife in front of kids

"Based off what we learned they appear to be one and the same," Baytown police spokesman Steve Dorris said.

Sutton kicked off the case with a missing persons report on Aug. 18, two days after the slaying police say occurred at Briarwood Village Apartments. When she came into the station to file a report, Sutton told police she'd last seen her boyfriend that Wednesday, when he'd left home around 10:30 p.m.

But Coleman's car was still sitting in the lot outside the couple's shared apartment, and the 32-year-old's mother told investigators she hadn't seen him in at least a week. A friend said she'd spoken to him that Wednesday around 10:20 p.m., when he'd promised to come help look for her daughter - but then he never showed up.

The friend also cautioned investigators that the missing man had allegedly warned her before: If he ever disappeared, police should investigate his girlfriend.

Coleman's neighbors and apartment manager said they'd last seen him the Monday before his disappearance. Afterward, one witness said she'd spotted Sutton moving furniture out of Coleman's apartment, court records show. Another witness told police she'd seen two men help Sutton move stuff into a truck.

That Thursday - the day before Sutton reported her boyfriend missing - a woman matching her description used Coleman's card to buy a foam bed topper and duct tape at a Baytown Walmart, according to a sworn statement filed in Harris County court.

Five days later, a man's torso was found in the Baytown landfill in Chambers County, which takes trash from dumpsters across Baytown and Pasadena. The decomposing pelvis included certain details matching the description Sutton gave police when her boyfriend disappeared.

The week after Coleman's last sighting, police searched the couple's apartment and found it "mostly vacant" with blood traces scattered across the bedroom, kitchen and bathroom.

But as the case dragged on, Sutton had disappeared as well. Before the hurricane, she told Baytown police she'd come talk with them further about the investigation - but then she never showed, according to court documents.

Instead, authorities used an anonymous tipster to help track her down in September, tracing her to Louisiana, where she'd stopped by a Covington home shared by her brother and his girlfriend. Under questioning, the brother's girlfriend told investigators that Sutton had admitted to shooting Coleman in his sleep, then cutting him up with a machete and wrapping the remains in sheets and duct tape, according to court records.

Then, Sutton allegedly loaded the evidence in her Jeep and disposed the pieces at different dumpsters.

When police finally interviewed Sutton's best friend, she and her boyfriend both offered a similar story, claiming Sutton had confessed to killing her boyfriend after an argument  allegedly while her 10-year-old daughter Trinity was in the living room. She'd chopped up his body because he was too heavy to carry, police say she told her best friend's boyfriend.

Sutton was charged with murder and arrested late Thursday in Louisiana. She did not appear to be in the Harris County jail as of Sunday afternoon, and court records do not show any assigned attorney.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Three people are in the hospital after gunfire early Monday near the Alief area in west Houston.

Officers were called about 3 a.m. to Rodeo Square, near Bellaire, after reports of a shooting, said Lt. Larry Crowson with the Houston Police Department.

No one was at the cul de sac when officers arrived, but there were the remnants of gunfire: Police spotted shell casings in the street.

While officers investigated the scene, a separate call came into police. A man and a woman about two and a half miles away, inside of a black SUV parked at a Walgreens at Texas 6 and Bellaire, had been shot.

Police believe the pair were injured at Rodeo Square, Crowson said.

The man was taken by Life Flight to an area hospital in critical condition. The woman was taken to an area hospital in serious but stable condition.

The man and woman didn't appear to be the only victims of the morning's violence. A man with gunshot wounds was dropped off Monday morning at West Houston Medical Center - also about two and a half miles from the site of the gunfire - in a private car.

Police believe he too was injured at Rodeo Square.

Police did not immediately release the second man's condition. They did not release the men or the woman's identities.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The call came just as he began his shift. He recognized the number as one from a ranking member above him and he knew he couldn't ignore the call.

He stepped outside away from his job to make the phone call.

"Have you seen your email yet?" the voice said.

"No," he answered.

"We've been alerted and you need to report to the armory as soon as possible," the voice on the other end said.

Sgt. Sean Golliday had just begun his shift and couldn't find a replacement and so he would have to leave as soon as his regular shift ended.

That night, after a long day of work, he left his job around 11 p.m. and hurried home to pack his bags. He kissed his worried wife goodbye and headed straight to the base.

While it was a couple of days before they pulled out, he knew it was important for him to get there as quickly as possible.

The sergeant, who worked security for the government at an undisclosed location in Dallas, didn't know where he was going and hadn't seen any orders but he knew he would be briefed eventually as to the scope of the mission.

Living in Mansfield, Texas, the 13-year veteran of the Texas Army National Guard and his wife had moved to Texas from Portland, Oregon to serve in another army - the Army of the Lord.

An itinerant minister, based out of a church in Bedford, Texas, Golliday spent his weekends preaching the gospel to anyone who would hear.

He ended up in Texas after following his senior pastor back in Oregon who had come to the Lone Star state to plant a church in Irving, Texas.

"Some of us who were part of the staff came down to help and that's how we got down here," he said. "And we have no plans of going back."

He's a part-time staff member at the church and works as a security contractor with the government.

"I signed up after 9/11 about a year after. I wanted to do more. I was just moved by what happened," he said. "I always wanted to join but never did and I went into ministry right after high school."

He told his wife he was going to join and she was supportive.

"We've always had a special place in our heart for the military," he said.

They had also lived in California where most of their friends were either in the Marines or Navy. We had a big influence there in San Diego.

He joined the Navy Reserves first and later switched to the Texas Army National Guard (TANG). The Navy accepted enlisted up until age 39, and he joined up at 36.

He has been promoted to sergeant and still enjoys serving after 13 years with the TANG.

"I served a tour in the Sinai, Egypt on a peacekeeping mission in 2006, a stint in Kirkuk, Northern Iraq in 2008 and 2009, and my last one was in 2012-2013 in western Afghanistan. In between, we trained with the Romanian and English armies," he said.

He felt blessed to be back stateside safe and was thankful that their infantry didn't lose anyone.

He's currently attached to the 156th Brigade Engineers Battalion in Grand Prairie, Texas.

When Golliday isn't playing Army, he's off speaking to congregations across the country.

"My boss is really flexible besides using my vacation time," he said with gratitude.

He was in a youth conference in Arizona recently before his call-up.

At the end of the month, he will be in Vista, California speaking for a friend who pastors a church there once deployment was over, wherever that was going to be.

"I had an inkling of where we might be headed, but this was my first time for a SAD (State Active Duty). I knew after some time they would brief us on where we were going," he said.

It wasn't until they loaded up and were heading south that he figured it was in response to the hurricane.

"It was a lot easier for my wife knowing we were headed there and not being activated to go overseas somewhere," he said.

"You still have that uncertainty."

His mind drifted to his two sons, one 29 and the other 28. At 51 now, he's now answering to his oldest son who is an intelligence officer and captain.

"We were in Afghanistan together at the same time," he said proudly.

"It was frightening. He was on a different FOB [forward operating base]. I actually got to spend some time with him while we were there," he said. They flew the sergeant over so he could see his son while they were in Afghanistan.

Golliday is the oldest in his unit which makes him the target of some harmless joking.

"I may not be the first and I definitely won't be the last, but I'll be in the middle," he laughed.

His decision to serve Uncle Sam has been an integral part of his ministry.

"It's been great for me. It's been a life-long dream to do it, and for the most part, it's been a very positive experience. Like anything, it has its challenges. It's added a lot to my life. It's made me more well-rounded. I've met people of all ages, from different countries, and races. I'm so proud to be able to serve," he said.

Serving in two armies, he finds opportunities to combine the two.

"It has so many similarities to both that I can apply," he said.

While at the Dayton Community Center, he hosted a Bible study.

"I'm a full squad leader and some of my own members have come to me for counseling and prayer. One of my soldiers had a family member that died during the hurricane. Along with the chaplain we've been able to give him some support, pray with him and just be there for him," he said.

The command gave the soldier an opportunity to go to the funeral.

"My wife and I pastored our first church in 1988 in Belleville, Ill. And a church in east San Diego in 1981."

He began traveling as an itinerant pastor in 1985.

"I was living in Oceanside, Calif., at the time and have been to Australia, Africa, Ukraine, and many states to youth camps and youth conferences," he said.

His message he says is positive and focuses on faith-building, with purpose and destiny.

"I see a gap or a lack of purpose, particularly with young people today," he said. "A lot of people want to know who they are and why are they here on this earth. If I can connect them with the God who created them who is full of purpose they can learn why they are here."

He said he's grateful that his command allows him the opportunity to minister to young men and women who are vulnerable and in a stressful situation.

"It's just fulfilling to see the lives that are changed through the gospel," he said.

While he was in Afghanistan, his command allowed him to hold services for the soldiers on the base on Sundays in a chaplain's tent. He held Bible studies during the week when his schedule allowed him.

Golliday helped with the Point of Distribution (POD) and several other missions in Dayton and Katy where they arrived first.

"I'm glad we came down to help the community. I wish we would have been here much sooner, but we went out to an elementary school and we got to escort the kids in to their class and read to them," he said.

It was a special time for him remembering his own days with his own two sons.

Now back home in Mansfield, he uses his Texas Army National Guard experiences to relate to those he is helping fight spiritual warfare.
Alisha Hauber had never heard the phrase "do not resuscitate" when she saw the hospital order on her son Lane's crib a few days after he was delivered.

Hauber knew something was wrong with Lane as soon as he was born, but only after Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth finished testing did she learn he had a chromosomal disorder doctors often call "incompatible with life." She was told Lane wouldn't survive a week and the decision not to attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation non-negotiable.

"They didn't ask for our consent," Hauber, a mother of four, said of the "do not resuscitate" or DNR order. "They did it without our permission even when we asked them to take it off. They said it was the physician's right and the hospital's right."

Eight years later, with Lane profoundly disabled but alive, Hauber still bristles at the unilateral right, medicine's little-known secret. An order placed without patient consent may seem like a violation of one of medicine's most cherished principles, but experts say cases like Hauber's, though infrequent, aren't isolated. Even the medical field seems unsure what to make of such power, divided about when to invoke it.

A survey published in the July issue of the journal Chest found half of responding doctors endorsed unilateral DNR orders as appropriate. Six percent of doctors and 20 percent of pulmonary critical-care doctors who responded said they had performed a unilateral DNR - that is, slipped an order in a patient's file or refused a request to provide CPR - in the previous year.

'More symbolic'

Beginning next April, the right of Texas hospitals and doctors to write unilateral DNRs will be dramatically curtailed under a law signed by Gov. Greg Abbott last month. The law requires doctors and hospitals to notify and get consent from patients or their guardians before implementing a DNR order.

The likely impact of the law is unclear, given that most hospitals already have policies calling for doctors to get such approval before writing a DNR. More than one critic called it "a solution in search of a problem," and bioethicist Thaddeus Pope said its value may be "more symbolic than practical."

"This law probably won't affect that many people, but it's another example of discretion being taken from clinicians and hospitals," said Pope, director of the Health Law Institute at Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul, Minn. "That's been a national trend the last five or so years, the health-care profession losing power they used to have, the emergence of a greater culture of patient rights."

Texas Right-to-Life testified at a legislative hearing that eight states have enacted laws requiring health-care practitioners get patient consent before writing a DNR, though not all are recent and most are limited in scope. Pope cited laws passed recently in Kansas, Oklahoma, New York and Idaho as examples of the curtailment of medical authority. The Kansas statute, known as Simon's law for a child whose death followed a doctor's unilaterally-issued DNR, preceded the Texas law by a few months but requires consent only in pediatric cases. The child for whom the Kansas law is named had the same chromosomal disorder as Lane Hauber.

Bipartisan support

Ethicists said it is unclear how the new Texas law squares with the state's 1999 futile-care law, which gives hospitals the authority to remove a patient's life-sustaining care against loved ones' wishes if the doctor deems continued treatment unethical because it would cause suffering. The constitutionality of the futile-carelaw is being challenged in a lawsuit scheduled to be heard in a Houston courtroom this week. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a brief in support of the plaintiff, the family of a now-deceased cancer patient for whom Houston Methodist Hospital initially invoked the law.

The DNR law, one of Abbott's special-session right-to-life priorities, passed easily, with bipartisan support, despite opposition by the Texas Hospital Association. The Texas Medical Association opposed early drafts but took a neutral position after changes were made in the final version to provide doctors better protection from lawsuits.

The bill was sponsored by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, who said it "defies all logic" that doctors could slip a DNR order into a patients' files without their knowledge.

"It's not so much that it happens often - I'm glad it doesn't - as that it happens at all," said Perry, a CPA. "My heart goes out to people it's happened to."

Several such people, including Hauber, told their stories at legislative hearings. Hauber said she was unable to get treatment for Lane even as he got older and stronger because of the DNR order and the medical community's attitude about his disorder, known as trisomy 18, in which only about a half of those who carry the extra chromosome are born alive and only about 10 percent live to their first birthday. Hauber told legislators that "I don't think it's fair, I don't think it's right" that a hospital or doctor has "complete control over the rest of your life and can make decisions for you."

Cook Children's Hospital declined comment about the case, citing patient confidentiality laws.

Pope and William Winslade, a University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston ethicist, side with parents of such children, arguing that a hospital's issuance of DNRs and accompanying non-treatment policies in trisomy 18 cases represent not medical judgments so much as value judgments, the view that it's better to be dead than live with such a condition.

Greater consensus between doctors and ethicists prevails when the patient is elderly, incapacitated and near death and a loved one still wants CPR attempted. In many such situations, say experts, most doctors would favor a DNR order, noting that CPR is one of medicine's most brutal procedures.

"CPR is a physical insult to the individual," said Dr. Arlo Weltge, an emergency medicine doctor at the University of Texas at Houston McGovern Medical School and a Texas Medical Association board member. "Those chest compressions can break ribs. Electricity applied to the chest is painful. Intubation is miserable. And CPR is not necessarily a lifesaving event."

Families can override

Weltge noted DNRs are rare in emergency departments because patients typically are there with acute problems, such as trauma, where CPR is one of the foundations of treatment. They occur more often in hospital rooms where an aging patient has advanced cancer or dementia, often in addition to other degenerative conditions.

Ideally, such patients have made their wishes known to doctors, but the reality is many have not - only about a third of U.S. adults have advance directives for end-of-life care. If they become incapacitated, DNR decisions typically fall to a family member.

Some interpret language in the Texas law as giving too much power to family members or other surrogates.

"It's really an anti-DNR bill," said Courtenay Bruce, a professor in the Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy at Baylor College of Medicine. "It makes it hard for patients to institute DNR orders - requiring paperwork or witnesses - but easy to revoke. It allows families to override the wishes of an incapacitated patient, which is wrong. You want to honor patient preferences, not families who may be ill informed or have vested interests."

That families have such authority was the primary issue cited by the Texas Hospital Association. In a statement, it said the law will "undermine patients' choices and add unnecessary confusion and ambiguity."

Doctors' discretion

Still, the law does allow doctors the discretion to order DNRs in certain circumstances, where it is "medically appropriate" and death is imminent. In cases in which death is not imminent, Bruce said hospitals could invoke the process spelled out in the futile-care law, which involves approval by an institutional ethics committee and a 10-day clock to allow the family time to find a hospital that would follow their wishes.

Pope, who praised the requirement that hospitals be more transparent about DNRs, suggested the law may be a mixed bag.

"I don't think it's a terrible statute," he said. "I'm confident it'll produce some good and some bad - probably some families who want to care for a trisomy 18 child will find less resistance and probably some people for whom a DNR order is highly appropriate will have to undergo CPR. I don't know how to weigh that."
PILOT KNOB  When reenactors from across the country converge on the Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site in the Arcadia Valley this weekend, they will be bringing to life a significant Civil War battle that took place on that very spot exactly 153 years ago.

Thousands of people from across the country will be making their way to the historic site, located in the Iron County town of Pilot Knob, to experience first-hand one of the most popular Civil War reenactment events in the country.

For those who don't know the story of the battle which took place Sept. 23-24, 1864, it is an amazing one.

In the fall of 1864, Confederate armies east of the Mississippi River suffered an almost endless string of defeats. Ulysses S. Grant and the Army of the Potomac had trapped Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia in the trenches around Petersburg, Virginia, and Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman captured Atlanta on Sept. 2.

Even so, Confederate Gen. Edmund Kirby Smith's army, encamped west of the Mississippi River, faced no immediate threat. In an attempt to relieve the increasing pressure on his fellow armies to the east, Smith sent a massive mounted raiding force far behind federal lines into the state of Missouri.

Smith appointed Maj. Gen. Sterling Price, Missouri's most famous Confederate, to lead the raid. Price's goals were to divert Union troops from east of the Mississippi River, gather Confederate recruits, capture and destroy Union war materials and, if at all possible, capture St. Louis or Jefferson City.

Price entered Missouri on Sept. 19, 1864, with an army of 12,000 men headed for St. Louis. This was the largest Confederate cavalry raid of the war.

On the way to St. Louis, Price decided to attack the weakly defended post of Fort Davidson at Pilot Knob. At that time, Fort Davidson was a small hexagonal earthwork fort defended by Gen. Thomas Ewing Jr. and his 1,450 Union soldiers.

Capturing Fort Davidson would provide arms for Price's 3,000 unarmed soldiers, prevent Ewing's garrison from reinforcing St. Louis or Jefferson City, and provide combat experience for the nearly 6,000 untested Confederate draftees.

Price's leading regiments engaged Union pickets at 1 p.m. on Sept. 26, driving into the town of Ironton. As the rebel strength grew the small Union force was pushed back toward the fort. During the night the Confederate army camped south of the fort and prepared to strike the next day.

On the morning of Sept. 27 the Confederates attacked. Two Union regiments fell back from their advance line near Ironton and retreated to the slopes of Pilot Knob and Shepherd mountains. As the rebels appeared between the two mountains, the siege guns of Fort Davidson opened fire.

The Confederates pressed the attack. Price and his commanders felt that one swift assault would overwhelm the fort. Confederate cannons on Shepherd Mountain fired on the fort as four brigades of Southern troops charged. Union troops still defending Pilot Knob Mountain were engulfed, while those on Shepherd Mountain safely retreated to the fort with the Confederate wave cresting behind them.

Unfortunately the poor timing of the Confederates' assaults allowed heavy fire from the garrison to be directed at each attacking brigade. Only one Rebel brigade reached the fort. It advanced one mile under murderous fire, halting only when it reached the fort's moat where the Yankees threw hand grenades down upon them. The assault was broken and the Confederates fell back to reorganize and prepare for a renewed attack the next day.

Ewing, low on ammunition for his cannons, knew his Union forces could not hold out a second day. He ordered Fort Davidson evacuated. The soldiers silently exited the fort at 2:30 a.m., traveling north past Confederate guards under the cover of darkness.

At 3:30 a.m., a small group of soldiers exploded the fort's powder magazine, destroying the fort's remaining supplies. Ewing escaped Price's pursuing columns, marching 67 miles to the hamlet of Leasburg. From Leasburg, Ewing headed to Rolla, freeing that city's garrison to reinforce Jefferson City.

The Confederates paid a heavy price during the Battle of Pilot Knob with as many as 1,000 Rebel troops killed or wounded. More importantly, Gen. Price no longer posed a threat to St. Louis.

Union forces suffered 200 casualties, with 28 killed.

Dr. Seymour Carpenter commandeered Immanuel Lutheran Church for the Union Army to be used as its main hospital, along with several local houses to tend to the wounded.

A bloodstain is still visible on the floor of the church and several years ago an archaeological survey retrieved a minie ball  a Civil War-era bullet  from beneath the church's trap door. A few weeks after the battle ended, the Union Army had once again taken control of the area.

Price continued his advance into Missouri following the battle. Eventually he encountered two Union armies at the battle of Westport, near Kansas City. It was there, in the largest battle fought west of the Mississippi River, where he was defeated and forced to return to Confederate-held Arkansas.

For decades following the battle the fort drew former Union and Confederate soldiers to the site where they solemnly remembered comrades both living and dead. Today the Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site remains a popular stop for tourists, historians and Civil War buffs who visit the area.

Despite the crowds, plenty of parking is available for visitors. Also, food and craft vendors will be on-site for the event throughout the weekend.
Demonstrations continued Monday in St. Louis over the acquittal of a former police officer charged with murder, as marchers gathered for a protest just hours after authorities said they had arrested more than 80 people during a third consecutive night of unrest.

The protests, which authorities say have shifted toward vandalism and violence at night, have rocked St. Louis, where memories remain fresh of the mayhem that erupted in 2014 after a white police officer fatally shot a black teenager in suburban Ferguson. That shooting, and a later decision not to charge the officer, set off intense, sometimes violent protests, and it also marked the beginning of a wave of demonstrations against police use of deadly force that gripped cities across the country in recent years.

The latest protests began almost immediately after Jason Stockley, a former St. Louis police officer, was found not guilty Friday morning. Stockley shot and killed Anthony Lamar Smith in 2011 after a car chase.

Authorities said that during the chase, Stockley could be heard saying he was "going to kill this -- - - - - - - - - - -, don't you know it." Prosecutors also accused Stockley of planting a gun in Smith's car, noting that the weapon was found with only Stockley's DNA on it.

Stockley said he had no plan to kill Smith and could not recall making the comments about killing him, and he denied planting the gun, saying that he was trying to find the weapon when he went into Smith's car.

Judge Timothy Wilson, the circuit judge who heard the case in a bench trial rather than one presented to a jury, released a 30-page opinion Friday saying he was "simply not firmly convinced" of Stockley's guilt.

Wilson said he "agonizingly" went through the evidence, which included video footage captured inside the car as well as recorded from a restaurant surveillance camera and a witness's cellphone. Ultimately, Wilson said, prosecutors did not convince him that Stockley "did not act in self-defense."

After Wilson's order was released, marchers began gathering in the streets of St. Louis, which had tensed up Friday as the verdict was expected to be announced. Demonstrators pledged "mass disruption," and they grew in size throughout the day Friday but remained largely peaceful, according to authorities and media accounts.

However, St. Louis police Chief Lawrence O'Toole said that after nightfall, the calm demonstrations had given way to "agitators" who "began to destroy property and assault police officers."

The same pattern would recur Saturday and Sunday: Peaceful protests during the day giving way to smaller groups and acts of violence at night. Accounts from the scene described people hurling water bottles, rocks and chairs, smashing windows and damaging numerous businesses in the city.

Police decried the vandalism and sought to project a sense of command over the unrest. In a news conference early Monday, O'Toole said more than 80 people were arrested late Sunday and called them "a group of criminals [who] set out to break windows and destroy property."

O'Toole outlined damage to property, including broken windows and flowerpots, and said law enforcement officers were hit with "chemicals and rocks," adding that these officers suffered minor or moderate injuries and would return to duty soon. He also said police confiscated five unused weapons from demonstrators.

"The city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight," O'Toole said of the Sunday night protests. He said later: "We're in control. This is our city, and we're going to protect it."

Protesters on the ground, though, have criticized police for responding to the demonstrations with riot gear.

"Do they think this will make us feel safe?" Keisha Lee of Ferguson, Missouri, told Reuters.

Police have announced more than 100 arrests since the demonstrations began Friday, and they have also described injuries to a number of law enforcement officers. Some of these injuries were minor, O'Toole said, but his department also said some were more serious, including a 26-year-old female officer whose jaw was broken, and a 43-year-old male officer who had his shoulder dislocated, both after being struck by bricks.

Some of the local and state officials responding were not in office during the Ferguson unrest, including Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens, a Republican elected last year, and St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson, elected earlier this year. Greitens, who appeared with Smith's fiancee to plead for peaceful protests and called up the National Guard before the verdict, also appeared to draw a direct, critical comparison with those in power during previous protests.

"In the past, our leaders let people break windows, loot, start fires," he wrote on Facebook over the weekend. "They let them do it. Not this time. Tonight, the police arrested the vandals."

Krewson, whose home was damaged Friday night, said during the briefing early Monday that "the vast majority of protesters are nonviolent, but for the third day in a row, the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive."

At least one of those arrested was Mike Faulk, a reporter with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, according to that newspaper.

A photographer for the Post-Dispatch, a veteran of protest coverage, also reported early Monday that after police made arrests, officers could be heard chanting "Whose streets? Our streets."

He also reported that the same thing was heard by several other people at the scene.

After the sun rose Monday morning, just hours after O'Toole and Krewson spoke, demonstrators had gathered at the St. Louis City Hall. The group chanted and clapped, and at least one held aloft a sign saying: "No justice, no peace."

While in front of City Hall, a group of demonstrators could also be heard chanting "Whose streets? Our streets."

The protesters paused Monday morning and moved from the roadway to allow a firetruck and ambulance to respond to a call, after which the marchers gathered once again in the middle of the road.

These demonstrations, which have extended for a fourth day and show little sign of abating, are the latest to erupt after a deadly shooting by law enforcement, a decision by prosecutors not to pursue charges or a verdict acquitting an officer involved.

In many cases, these eruptions follow relatively quickly on the heels of a shooting, though there are exceptions, like the protests that followed the November 2015 release of video footage showing a Chicago police officer fatally shooting a teenager more than a year earlier.

This shooting occurred in 2011, well before Ferguson became the first of many cities - including Baltimore, San Francisco, Cleveland, Baton Rouge, Seattle and Charlotte - where deaths involving police officers prompted intense unrest and drew nationwide scrutiny.

Charges against officers for on-duty shootings or other uses of deadly force are rare, though prosecutions have increased in recent years, which experts attribute to a combination of political pressure and more video evidence. Convictions, though, are still very rare. In June, three trials involving officers charged in controversial shootings captured on video ended without convictions; officers in Minnesota and Wisconsin were acquitted, while an Ohio jury deadlocked in the third case.

The St. Louis case prompting the ongoing protests surged back into the public consciousness Friday when Wilson, the circuit judge, released a 30-page order explaining why he acquitted the officer of a murder charge as well as a charge of armed criminal action.

Wilson wrote that Smith's car crashed into a police vehicle before driving off. Stockley fired shots at Smith's car before pursuing him in a high-speed car chase that Wilson said endangered drivers and pedestrians alike and was "stressful" for the officers involved.

It was this stress that Wilson cited when discussing Stockley's comment about killing Smith, writing in his opinion that "people say all kinds of things in the heat of the moment or while in stressful situations."

Wilson also wrote that he did not believe Stockley's actions after the chase were "consistent with the conduct of a person intentionally killing another person unlawfully." He wrote that Stockley was told Smith had a gun and did not immediately open fire as he approached Smith's car.

Wilson also wrote that Stockley approached Smith's car with his hand on his holstered gun and appeared to wrestle "with something or someone at the window" before drawing his gun and firing. Smith was shot five times, with one bullet going through his heart, Wilson wrote.

Neil Bruntrager, an attorney for Stockley, praised Wilson for outlining his decision in great detail, which he said allowed the public to fully understand what factored into the acquittal.

"This is Tim Wilson's best effort in that regard to make sure people understand why he did what he did," Bruntrager said. "That to me is invaluable. Because if you read this, if you truly read this, you can't come away with any other conclusion other than what he concluded."

Stockley left the St. Louis police force in 2013 and has moved to Texas. After his acquittal, he detailed his side of what happened.

"I can feel for and I understand what the family is going through, and I know everyone wants someone to blame, but I'm just not the guy," Stockley told the Post-Dispatch in an interview Friday.

Federal authorities said they had already considered Stockley's case and opted against prosecuting him. According to Lauren Ehrsam, a spokeswoman for the Justice Department, the U.S. Attorney's Office declined to prosecute the case in 2012.

The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division concluded its own review "and agreed that the evidence did not support a prosecution under federal criminal civil rights statutes," Ehrsam said in a statement.

Civil rights prosecutions require a particularly high legal bar, something that federal authorities have restated again and again when declining to pursue charges in high-profile cases. In 2015, months after Ferguson erupted when Darren Wilson, a police officer, shot and killed Michael Brown, the Justice Department declined to prosecute him while releasing a scathing report demanding wholesale changes to the police there.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The people of Bear Creek emerged cautiously from their ruined houses to greet the men and women wearing blue FEMA shirts who came to their front doors. They stood amid enormous piles of discarded belongings that covered their front lawns and spilled over the sidewalks and into the streets.

The FEMA workers answered question after question: Why do I have to fill out a Small Business Administration loan application when I don't own a business? (It's a required part of the process.) Why won't my homeowners' insurance cover flood damage? (You need flood insurance for that.) Why does FEMA need a copy of the denial letter from my insurer? (To avoid duplicating benefits.)

Yet these survivors of Hurricane Harvey's floods, like thousands of others across the Houston area and beyond, needed more than information. They needed a bit of encouragement and support.

"Don't give up," disaster assistance team member Howard Higgins advised a group of women who had just told their story to him and his colleagues. "We wish you the best. I hope we clarified some of it for you today."

Higgins was part of a team that had been working for days in Bear Creek, a northwest Harris County community where Harvey's floods damaged hundreds of houses. The Federal Emergency Management Agency had dispatched this group and others like it to hard-hit areas up and down the Texas Gulf Coast to guide survivors through the first steps toward recovery.

FEMA has faced a lot of criticism - including some in this column - for its response to major disasters in recent years, from Katrina to Ike to Harvey. But the concerns focus mainly on management and policy issues involving top leadership.

At the ground level, the story is different. I have met dozens of FEMA employees and contract workers in the aftermath of Hurricanes Ike and Harvey. Almost all of them are smart, hard-working people who ache at the suffering they see every day - and at the limits of their power to ease it.

Most members of these outreach teams are not permanent FEMA employees; they work intermittently for the agency, deployed after major disasters. The teams are supplemented by young people from the FEMA Corps, a group associated with the Corporation for National and Community Service.

In the section of Bear Creek where Higgins and his colleagues were working on Friday, virtually every home had flooded. The team went from house to house, knocking or calling out. If the occupants were not home, the group left flyers on the doors.

Beth Parsell, wearing a face mask, walked out to collect her mail as the FEMA team approached a home across the street from her. Members of the team had met Parsell earlier in the day when they worked her side of the block.

"God bless you guys," Parsell said when she saw them. She turned to me: "We're so happy they're here. They've been helping us and guiding us."

A few blocks away, George Hawkins stood on the sidewalk and lit a cigarette as the FEMA workers spoke to his wife, Jan. The front lawn was covered with ruined furniture that Jan had bought after her previous house was destroyed by fire caused by a lightning strike during Hurricane Rita in 2005.

"In one day, I spent $30,000 on furniture," she said cheerfully with a sweep of her arm, "and here it all sits."

The couple is staying temporarily with Jan's mother. George Hawkins said their house had never flooded before, but the overflowing Addicks Reservoir nearby was more than the neighborhood could handle.

"The Corps of Engineers failed to open the (release) gates soon enough because they didn't want to flood Memorial," Hawkins said. (Many homes in the Memorial area, of course, did flood, and residents there have made the opposite argument.)

The last house the team visited before we parted ways on Friday was the home of Jackie Mathew, who stood in the driveway with her daughter, Jana Daniels, and next-door neighbor, Virginia Beck. They had finished their official business, and Beck was reflecting on the psychological effects of a disaster like Harvey.

"As Americans, we're used to being in control of our fate," she said. "Now, it's totally out of our control. It makes people emotional because they feel completely out of control of their own destiny."

That sense of helplessness is common when a disaster like Harvey wrenches away the underpinnings of our daily existence. As they go from door to door, FEMA's disaster recovery assistance teams can help people feel a bit steadier as they face the daunting task ahead.
For three decades at Lone Star College's Kingwood campus, Steve Davis has looked students in the eyes as he taught the Reconstruction era and World War II in his American history courses. This semester, he worries he'll never see their faces.

About 600 in-person courses at Lone Star College-Kingwood, including Davis', will move at least partially online after Hurricane Harvey plowed floodwater and sewage through many campus buildings late last month, causing millions of dollars in damage and requiring the major change to course schedules. Before Harvey, the campus scheduled 28 percent of its classes to take place partially or fully online. That figure is now 73 percent.

The decision forced an abrupt training of many professors who had never taught online before and required the college to find class space in facilities from local churches to the student center before the semester begins Sept. 25.

Davis said he's anxious about leaping into online education abruptly. He has never held an online class - and like many other faculty at Lone Star College-Kingwood, he had never been trained to do so before this week. A few colleges and universities have moved to online operations in times of crisis over the last decade, but digital learning experts characterize that decision as reactionary, not a pre-planned strategy.

"I know I'm a really good teacher," he said. "It's going to be hard for me to be an average teacher, to do this quick transition to this. ... The stress is coming from a feeling of worry that I'm not going to be as good as I want to be."

Faculty learned how to host discussions virtually, how often to respond to student emails and when to pick up the phone or schedule a video call. Professors, many of whom were familiar with the digital system from online grading and other course management programs, are now assessing how many students do not have reliable internet access. The college could not estimate that figure or assess how many faculty members completed training this week.

'Planning as we go'

Professors and administrators acknowledge several reasons why moving to a heavily online semester was a good option for Lone Star College-Kingwood, which enrolled more than 12,000 students each semester last year.

First, about a fifth of those students generally take courses online each semester, making the process familiar, the campus president said. Second, at least one study has shown that a significant percentage of community college students who take time off from their education don't return to finish their degree. Administrators and faculty, then, had to make every effort to hold classes, they say.

Kingwood campus president Katherine Persson said in an interview that Lone Star had not expected that Harvey would halt campus operations for so long.

"No one ever thinks they're going to lose 80 percent of their facilities in a weekend," Persson said. "Maybe when all this is over, I'll have sage words to offer. But right now, we're planning as we go."

Harvey had brought more than 30 inches of rain to Kingwood over three days, isolating the neighborhood from other parts of the city as high waters submerged streets.

Repairs to campus will span the semester. Six of nine buildings took on floodwater, and an additional building lost power. Damage is estimated at about $15 million, including the loss of life-size medical mannequins that simulate childbirth for nursing students and 12 dental seats for dental hygiene students.

After the rains subsided, administrators met around a dean's kitchen table to assess damage and examine the semester's course offerings, Persson said.

Some available rooms in a student center and music building will turn into classrooms. Facilities from local churches to a rehabilitation hospital will also host in-person classes, said David Baty, vice president of instruction, in an email. Organizing which courses will be held where is the last stage of planning for the semester.

Besides the move online, Harvey required faculty to trim courses to fit in a shorter semester and operate without office space. Speakers and extracurricular events will be cancelled, faculty say, including author visits.

Same skills apply

Just two students of more than 100 have dropped from professor Daniel Coleman's fall classes, he said.

Internet service has been out at Coleman's home in Westbury since Aug. 26, and this week he uploaded tests for his online religion classes from the priest's office at Grace Episcopal Church in Willowbend, where he could use Wi-Fi.

Coleman has taught online classes for years, he said, and even for in-person world religions classes, he uploads lectures along with Buddhist and Hindu prayers for student review off campus. Teaching online, like in-person, requires clear communication with students, he said. He sometimes asks students to call him.

"The foundation is learning the technological end," he said, "but the same skills that apply in a regular classroom apply in an online classroom, too."

Online learning has helped college students continue taking classes through crisis for more than a decade, but education technology experts say few universities and colleges are prepared to immediately switch to heavily online operations after a natural disaster.

New Orleans students took online classes financed by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation the semester after Hurricane Katrina, and a report by that foundation said University of Hong Kong students used distance education during the SARS epidemic, too.

"It's often a seat-of-the-pants response," said Robert Ubell, vice dean emeritus for online learning at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering. "But because it's a seat-of-the-pants response, it's quite extraordinary for them to have done it."

With last-minute preparations, however, course quality may suffer, said Scott McLeod, an educational leadership professor at the University of Colorado Denver.

"A large number of faculty have been allowed to not engage in online learning in any way," he said. "Which means, all of a sudden, their learning curve is sharp in a compressed period of time."

Kaleigh VonDerVor, Lone Star College-Kingwood's director of professional development, said faculty should not have been required to learn how to teach online as a preemptive measure.

Professors should be free to use their limited professional development time to develop skills of their choice, she said.

"We couldn't have anticipated this, ever," she said, adding that she is not familiar with any institution training all faculty to teach online.

'We don't have a choice'

Still, some students who had paid tuition before Harvey do not have high expectations for the semester, though they will stay enrolled. Kingwood resident Wendy Curts said her 18-year-old daughter is starting her freshman year this fall and will remain enrolled for core classes.

She registered for in-person classes, Curts said, because she worried online learning would heighten her tendency to procrastinate. Her daughter would have attended a different college or university had she known her courses would be online, Curts said.

"I've already paid for it - we don't have a choice," she said.

Faculty said they plan to schedule in-person meet ups throughout the semester to say hello to their students and answer questions face to face.

Davis, the American history professor, emailed students on Wednesday, urging them to meet him at a Starbucks in Kingwood on Thursday.

"I would love to meet you and will answer your questions to the best of my ability," he wrote. "This semester is certainly going to be a challenge, but maybe it's a comfort if we all realize there's no way we can do as horribly as the Texans did last Sunday (against the Jaguars)."
This past weekend was a somber occasion at most military installations and veteran organizations across the country as they observed the National POW/MIA Recognition Day with their brethren, the family of those not accounted for, and their communities.

Since 1986 the third Friday of September has been designated as a day to honor those service members who are prisoners of war or missing in action, as well as their families.

In the course of two days the service men and women who have never returned from battle were remembered in several events in the Parkland.

This event goes back to our countries promise of no man left behind, said Joe Snyder with Bismarck VFW Post 6947. They (POWs/MIAs) are one of us. We may have not have known them personally, but they were still one of our brothers.

The first event of the weekend locally was held Friday evening at the Bismarck War Memorial, which pays tribute to the area military personnel who gave the ultimate sacrifice to their country and laid down their lives for their country.

Before the ceremony Snyder, along with Arthur Jones, the Posts POW/MIA chairman, explained why the evening was so important.

POWs underwent a tremendous amount of misbehavior from the enemy, especially during Vietnam where many of them were tortured, Snyder said. The MIAs  they are still missing and we dont know what happened to them. Did they survive? Are they still prisoners? There are over 70,000 men from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam who are unaccounted for.

Jones spoke of a World War II pilot whose remains were recently discovered. His plane had crashed in a field and eventually a tree grew over the crash site. The pilots remains were recently discovered in that tree.

We have people looking all over the world for our men, Jones said. Events like this remind people that we will not leave one man behind. We will continue to look for them until they are brought home.

At all the local ceremonies military tradition was upheld. The ceremonies at Bismarck, Desloge VFW Post 2426, Farmington VFW Post 5869 and the Mineral Area Memorial VFW Post 5741 in Leadington, all shared some common elements.

Each ceremony began with the Posting of the Colors, either by the post members or in the case at Farmington the Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard. Each recited the Pledge of Allegiance and each began the ceremony with a prayer.

But one of the most subdued moments of the proceedings was the presentation of the Missing Man Table, or the Fallen Comrade Table,

During Friday evenings ceremony in Desloge, and then the following afternoon at Farmington and Leadington, a small round table covered by a white tablecloth became the focal point of the event.

The table was set for only one person, a symbolism of the isolation a prisoner of war must endure. In addition, the table also held a single red rose setting in a vase with a red ribbon tied around it ... another symbol of sacrifice and remembrance.

On the plate laid a single slice of lemon with salt sprinkled next to it. A reminder to of the bitter fate of the soldiers and the tears of those who are missing him.

Finally, a Bible and a lit candle sat across from each other. The Bible to offer spiritual guidance and strength, and the candle representing the light of hope, to shine light on the soldiers pathway home.

This Saturdays event is so we, and the generations to come, do not forget about our POWS and MIAs and keep their families in our hearts, said Bill Henson, the commander of Post 5741. We want to remember those who we knew, and we want the younger people to understand what it is all about.

"We have a war going on right now  the War on Terrorism  and we have soldiers overseas right now. At some point they could become a POW or MIA, so it should be just as important to them as it is to us.

To pay tribute to MIAs, some of veteran organizations took a moment to place a hat from each of the military services - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard - either on a chair or at a separate table ... just one more symbolic gesture for those who are still not accounted for.

For the most part those who were present at the ceremony were former service members from World War II to Afghanistan. But at Leadington, two boys, Parker Fields, 11, and his brother Carter, 13, dressed in their Boy Scout uniforms, sat intently through the ceremony. The two were selected to participate in the flag raising ceremony that followed.

Im excited about being here today, said Carter. I like to give back to the community and to give back to the soldiers, and to the soldiers who died for us.

Although it was a day of remembrance, many of those in attendance were hoping this past weekends events would spark the attention of community and political leaders about the plight of the POWs and the MIAs.

Joe Cerchi, the POW/MIA Chairman, Department of Missouri, wants to see closure given to the 2,327 families of MIA soldiers from World War II, or 258 men missing from Korea, or the 32 soldiers from Missouri who are still missing from Vietnam.

Everything we do should be set around public awareness, said Cerchi. It kind of hurts when there isnt a turnout for this, especially when you are in a town that claims to be patriotic. It shouldnt matter if they were 20 years before your time. They are still a comrade, a brother, a sister, a son.

Speaking on the same topic was Philip Baker, the POW/MIA Chair for the Department of Missouri, American Legion.

We have to raise awareness so people know that the POWs and the MIAs are not forgotten, Baker said. There are so many POW/MIA who suffered so we can have the freedom we have today.

"We need everyone to write their congressman and representative and let them know we need government funding to bring our people home." At each ceremony, the men and women participating seemed to have the same dream.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Mayor Sylvester Turner and religious leaders urged the city to stay united at a prayer vigil Sunday on the steps of City Hall, as the crisis sparked by Hurricane Harvey has ebbed and local governments return to more normal schedules.

Several dozen residents sang and hugged, cupping white wax candles with tinfoil and plastic cups, at an hour-long service.

Religious leaders sang and prayed to Jesus and Allah, in English and Spanish. One attendee blew a shofar horn - a symbol of the Jewish New Year - intermittently.

"(Prayer) events are taking place all over the city," Turner said. "It's a reminder that we are much stronger today than we ever have been. I just want it to continue to last."

A moment of silence honored the Houston and Harris County residents who died in the storm, including Joseph Dowell, a Houston Public Works employee who died in floodwaters trying to get to work. His body was found in a wooded area in the 3500 block of North Wayside Drive, authorities confirmed Thursday.

Dowell's family, their heads bowed, embraced and prayed Sunday at the event as religious leaders praised his service.

"He gave his life in an attempt to serve us," Pastor E. A. Deckard of Green House International Church said.

Sunday's event came shortly after the city pledged to move the last evacuees at the George R. Brown Convention Center shelter to a Houston Community College space.

Also on Friday, Turner lifted the city's last curfew, imposed to clear the streets for law enforcement and prevent looting. Harris County Courts and some schools reopened last week.

Deckard in introductory remarks said Harvey "washed away division" and left Houston "whole and together."

Mayor Pro Tem Ellen Cohen said one church and one school offered to host Jewish holiday services for two synagogues that were "wiped out" in the storm. Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, begins Wednesday at sundown.

Speakers and attendees acknowledged on Sunday that some in the city were trying to move forward and reestablish their routines while others remain devastated by the flood's damage.

"The crowd should have been a lot bigger," said Stacy Williams, the founder of a Humble nonprofit, after the sun set and crowds thinned.

Deckard closed the event praying for renewal for city officials, first responders and community leaders, minutes after a community activist collapsed in the heat. EMS responded to the scene.
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's legal team is wrestling with how much to cooperate with the special counsel looking into Russian election interference, an internal debate that led to an angry confrontation last week between two White House lawyers and that could shape the course of the investigation.

At the heart of the clash is an issue that has challenged multiple presidents during high-stakes Washington investigations: how to handle the demands of investigators without surrendering the institutional prerogatives of the office of the presidency. Similar conflicts during the Watergate and Monica Lewinsky scandals resulted in court rulings that limited a president's right to confidentiality.

The debate in Trump's West Wing has pitted Donald McGahn, the White House counsel, against Ty Cobb, a lawyer brought in to manage the response to the investigation. Cobb has argued for turning over as many of the emails and documents requested by the special counsel as possible in hopes of quickly ending the investigation - or at least its focus on Trump.

McGahn supports cooperation, but the president must still decide whether he will invoke the sort of executive or attorney-client privilege that would limit how forthcoming McGahn could be with the special counsel. McGahn is also concerned about setting a precedent that would weaken the White House long after Trump's tenure is over.

The friction escalated in recent days after Cobb was overheard by a reporter for the New York Times discussing the dispute during a lunchtime conversation at a popular Washington steakhouse. Cobb was heard talking about a White House lawyer he deemed "a McGahn spy" and saying McGahn had "a couple documents locked in a safe" that he seemed to suggest he wanted access to. He also mentioned a colleague whom he blamed for "some of these earlier leaks," and who he said "tried to push Jared out," meaning Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law and senior adviser, who has been a previous source of dispute for the legal team.

After the Times contacted the White House about the situation, McGahn privately erupted at Cobb, according to people informed about the confrontation who asked not to be named describing internal matters. John Kelly, the White House chief of staff, sharply reprimanded Cobb for his indiscretion, they said.

Emails, documents sought

The special counsel, Robert Mueller, is investigating connections between Russia and Trump and his associates, including whether they conspired to influence last year's election. Mueller is also looking into whether Trump's decision to fire James Comey, the FBI director initially leading the investigation, constitutes obstruction of justice.

He has asked the White House for emails and documents related to these matters, and Cobb has organized the requests into 13 categories, but officials would not describe them in more detail. So far, officials said the White House has not turned down any request.

Trump's aides said they were scrambling to respond to the requests to avoid a subpoena that might make it look as if the White House was not cooperating. Cobb hoped to turn over a trove of documents this week, according to people close to the legal team.

Cobb argues that the best strategy is to be as forthcoming as possible, even erring on the side of inclusion when it comes to producing documents, because he maintains the evidence will show Trump did nothing wrong. McGahn has told colleagues that he is concerned that Cobb's liberal approach could limit any later assertion of executive privilege. He has also blamed Cobb for the slow collection of documents.

A likely witness

Complicating the situation is that McGahn himself is a likely witness. Mueller wants to interview him about Comey's dismissal and the White House's handling of questions about a June 2016 meeting between Donald Trump Jr. and a Russian lawyer said to be offering incriminating information about Hillary Clinton.

McGahn is willing to meet with investigators and answer questions, but his lawyer, Bill Burck, has asked Cobb to tell him whether the president wants to assert either attorney-client or executive privilege, according to lawyers close to the case. McGahn could face legal jeopardy or lose his law license should he run afoul of rules governing which communications he can divulge. He did not respond to requests for comment.
WASHINGTON - They want him to scrap the Obama-era nuclear deal with Iran. They want him to bring American service members home. And they want him to stop sending money to help out other countries.

In other words, Donald Trump's supporters want to hear the president tell world leaders this week at the United Nations that America comes first.

"We're not the world's policeman just because something bad is going on and we need to save the day," said Tim Jones, former speaker of the Missouri House who now hosts a weekly, conservative radio show.

On North Korea, the topic most urgently on the agenda at the United Nation's annual gathering, Trump voters want the president to deliver more tough talk. But they also want him to get the rest of the global community to step up and take responsibility for stopping Pyongyang from lobbing missiles at America's allies in Asia and threatening nuclear war.

"I would love for him to go to the U.N. and actually get some other nations to actually join in as far as condemning North Korea and being more strict on them," said Brian Bledsoe, a Dallas truck driver who served as a delegate to the GOP convention in Texas last year.

Trump's administration successfully pushed the U.N. Security Council to pass sanctions against North Korea twice in recent weeks - once after the nation carried out its sixth and largest nuclear test. The Security Council dropped a full oil import ban and sanctions on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

"We've got a lot of clout. We're not at the bottom of the food chain," said Robert Clark, a former drywall contractor and Marine from Columbia, S.C. "We need to stand up and use our influence with the other countries. We need to be firmer with our beliefs and use our clout."

Trump's first speech to the United Nations, on Tuesday follows a campaign in which he ridiculed the organization as an inefficient and inconsequential body and criticized its decision to condemn Israeli settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. He also will host an event Monday to reform the U.N. attended by representatives of more than 100 nations.

"The United Nations has such great potential but right now it is just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. So sad!" he tweeted in December as he prepared to enter the White House.

The United States is the single biggest financial contributor to the United Nations, using a formula based on the size of a country's economy, among other factors; Washington sends more than $500 million a year to the organization's regular budget, more if counting the U.N.'s other operations.

"I would like him to in no uncertain terms to put the United Nations on notice that we're not going to tolerate their inactivity and ridiculousness anymore," said Jerry Rovner, a retired Navy captain from Columbia, S.C. who served as a delegate to the Republican convention last year. "The amount of money spent by us - we could probably fix both hurricanes and bail people out from that. All we're doing is pumping money into people who want to live like kings."

Trump campaigned on a rejection of previous American administration's attempts at globalization, instead latching onto a growing nationalist sentiment throughout the country with what he called an "America First" agenda. He carried that into the White House, making nationalism the theme of his inaugural address.

Since then, however, some of the aides who guided Trump's beliefs and rhetoric on foreign affairs, including top strategist Steve Bannon and policy adviser Sebastian Gorka, have been ousted. Some of his voters now worry he has now deviated from Bannon's philosophy, and they hope the president will use his United Nations address to set the record straight.

"Trump campaigned on restrained foreign policy. He campaigned against establishment policy," said Brian Darling, who worked on Capitol Hill before founding his own public affairs and lobbying company. "I want to hear the president reflect what he campaigned on and what I voted for and not a continuation of failed policies in the past."

Trump supporters cheered when he announced the United States would leave the Paris climate agreement, an international pact to combat global warming, even though he vowed to negotiate re-entering the deal if it doesn't harm the American economy. And they supported his proposal to slash budgets for the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development by 37 percent.

"Is it really necessary to spend $2 billion for foreign aid to XYZ country when we have to spend money in Florida for flood relief?" said a former Trump adviser who remains close to the Trump White House. "That's real 'America First.'"

They were encouraged when he criticized a landmark 2015 agreement designed to allow Iran to pursue a nuclear energy and research program but prevent it from producing a nuclear weapon. He must decide by Oct. 15 whether to certify Iran is complying with the deal.

They know - and like - that Trump views most domestic and global issues through a lens of "economic populism" and they want him to continue reiterating that the United States needs to negotiate better deals with countries.
City Council set the ball rolling Wednesday on Mayor Sylvester Turner's proposed one-year 8.9 percent property tax rate hike to help fund Houston's recovery from Hurricane Harvey, in what would be the first hike from City Hall in more than two decades.

The council voted to schedule three public hearings on the issue, which is expected to reach a formal vote in mid-October.

Those hearings will be held at City Hall on:

Sept. 25 at 6 p.m.

Oct. 2 at 6 p.m.

Oct. 11 at 9 a.m.

The average Houston owner of a $225,000 home with a standard homestead exemption would pay $118 more in property taxes next year under the proposal. The rate would rise to 63.87 cents per $100 of appraised value from 58.64 cents - the lowest city tax rate since the late 1980s. The former was the rate from 2009 through 2013, when a 13-year-old voter-imposed limit on Houston's property tax collections first began forcing City Council to cut the rate each year to avoid bringing in more revenue than was allowed.

Turner is able to propose an increase beyond the strictures of the revenue cap, allowing the city to collect an extra $113 million for one year, because Harvey placed Houston under a federal disaster declaration. The rate would revert back to the revenue cap's calculations next year.

The mayor said his staff will work over the next two to three weeks to better estimate what insurance policies will cover, what the Federal Emergency Management Agency will reimburse and what the city will be left to pay itself.

After that review, Turner said, the 8.9 percent increase he listed on this week's council agenda could be reduced.

"We'll get better numbers, we'll streamline it," the mayor said. "It's a very sensitive, touchy issue. No one wants to pay taxes. We're trying to balance competing interests, so to speak. People are having to expend more money to get their houses back in order, I understand that. The city is needing additional dollars to keep moving forward, to pick up the debris. We're going to be very judicious."

Harris County GOP chair Paul Simpson issued a statement, accusing the city of "chronic waste and misuse of taxpayers' hard-earned dollars" and calling on council members to "reject this opportunistic Tragedy Tax."

"Not only does the City have cash reserves to meet short-term cash flow needs, the open-ended nature of this tax hike means it would do little to solve real challenges," Simpson said.

Instead, he said, the city should follow Harris County's lead in managing its resources.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett on Wednesday said he would support a large bond issue - perhaps upward of $1 billion - and a tax hike to pay for it to refocus the county's flood control strategy, including the construction of a new reservoir, continued bayou widening projects and large-scale buyouts of properties that repeatedly flood.

City Council members Greg Travis, Michael Kubosh and Jack Christie voted against a procedural agenda item Wednesday to schedule the three public hearings; two council members were absent.

Houston is not the only local government to seek additional funds for hurricane response.

Pearland is seeking a 2.8 percent increase in its tax rate, to 70 cents per $100 of valuation, because of anticipated storm-related expenses. City Manager Clay Pearson has said two of the city's sewage treatment plants were damaged in the storm.

Missouri City, Sugar Land, Galveston and Pasadena all have proposed tax rate increases, but those were planned before Harvey's arrival.

Fort Bend County Commissioners Court also had discussed leaving its tax rate flat, rather than cutting it, because of Harvey's impact, but the commissioners proceeded Wednesday with a public hearing on a rate one-half cent lower than last year's.

Galveston County, La Porte and hard-hit Dickinson have passed or proposed no changes to their tax rates.

Montgomery County has discussed no tax increase and is requesting that properties be reappraised, which would lower the tax bills of those whose homes were damaged in the storm. Friendswood and League City have proposed lowering their tax rates.

Kristi Nix, Emily Foxhall and Andy Dubois contributed to this report.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Health care

Regarding "Ranks of insured Texans grow" (Page B1, Wednesday), conservatives argue that people should be able to choose whether they want to purchase health insurance.

The problem is that people who choose not to purchase health insurance expect to receive medical care when they arrive at the emergency room or are diagnosed with a disease such as cancer.

Health care is expensive. When people who choose not to buy insurance get sick, their costs are passed on to the rest of us in the form of higher health-care premiums or higher property taxes. So it is surprising that the GOP is considering bills they know will increase taxes and premiums for the rest of us.

As a property owner, I am tired of seeing my taxes and premiums increase to cover health-care costs for people who choose not to pay their way.

Congress should maintain and enforce the individual mandate. Everyone needs to be accountable for his or her own health care insurance.

Bill Meyer, Kingwood

Texting, driving

Regarding "Texting ban among more than 650 new Texas laws that took effect Sept. 1 (Chron.com, Sept. 4), now that texting while driving is against the law, you wouldn't know it. I have not had a single day that I have not had someone drift into the lane I am in, or get stuck behind someone doing 35-40 mph on a road for 60-65 mph.

Most cars since 2005 have bluetooth for hands-free phone operation, and some newer models even read your text for you. So that raises the question: Why are people still driving around with their phones in their hands?

The Texas Legislature just didn't go far enough. The point is to get the phone out of drivers' hands so they can preform the job they are doing - driving a vehicle that weighs several tons.

Gary Thies, La Porte

Sales tax option

Regarding "City: Turner seeks emergency rate increase for Harvey recovery" (Page A1, Tuesday), Mayor Sylvester Turner's proposed 12-month tax to rebuild Houston and replace damaged city vehicles has a laudable purpose. No one quibbles about the damage extreme flooding has caused to our infrastructure and buildings or the need to repair it.

The long, frustrating commutes illustrate how important passable, safe roads are to our populace - to all citizens, not just property owners.

The fair way to do it and raise much-needed revenue is to raise the city sales tax so non-property owners share the burden.

LaRetta Allen, Houston

Eliminate debt

Regarding "Congress still needs its debt ceiling" (Monday, Page B1), thanks to business columnist Chris Tomlinson for focusing attention on the $19 trillion debt the United States has now accumulated. It's shameful how the Republican Party has abdicated its conservative principles hoping we'll all forget this monstrous gift we are bequeathing future generations.

Continuing to fund countless government programs while pushing the debt onto our children and grandchildren is just too easy.

Randal Jones, Houston
WASHINGTON - Rarely, if ever, have so many presidential winners and losers been so incessantly chatty.

Hillary Clinton - who lost the 2016 election, in case you weren't sure - is on a book tour with her campaign memoir, "What Happened." (Hint: She's a woman, the Comey letter.)

Donald Trump - who is still campaigning despite having won - is chatting up Democrats to try to get something done. Anything! By week's end, he was recanting every mean thing he ever said about illegal immigrants and was softening his vow to send Dreamers (children brought here by their parents) back to their point of conception.

Meanwhile, Barack Obama, who already had his turn but can't quite quit the presidency, is still talking. All the time.

Finally, Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who lost the Democratic nomination to Clinton, is still running and still ranting about Medicare for everyone. Given the likely eventuality of a single-payer healthcare system, he and Larry David may as well take a victory lap. It's beginning to seem that Sanders won after all. As did the Democrats.

On the losing side are the Republicans who put their faith in a guy who promised the moon but has managed only to deliver a galaxy of tweets and several significant staff replacements. Trump the Republican was always a strain to credulity, but people can make themselves believe just about anything, as thousands of years of ritual sacrifice and snake dances confirm. Trump the salesman has always known this, either instinctively or as the result of his first successful con.

There are two things to know about con artists: One, they're having fun; two, once a bluffer tastes the sweet satisfaction of scamming a sucker - one's born every minute, you know - he can't stop. Once The Donald realized people would buy his brand of unction, he couldn't resist. No matter what he said or did, people of good (and not so good) faith donned their protective glasses and refused to see.

Trump was never ideologically driven, though he did surround himself with ideologues as helpmates. Or were they the biggest suckers of all?

This thought finally began to take shape when Trump recently met with the enemy - House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Depending on whose version one prefers, they discussed making a deal on both the future of hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants and what Trump called "extreme security."

Almost instantly, Breitbart slapped Trump with a headline and a nickname: "Amnesty Don." How quickly Steve Bannon shape-shifted from former senior White House policy adviser and Trump's personal Pravda to his antagonist. Other Republicans, presumably speaking for the base, declared Trump's presidency kaput.

Then again, maybe Trump decided it was time to get something done. Maybe hidden deep within, he has a heart. Or, more likely, he saw polls saying that most Americans think children brought here not of their own accord should be allowed to stay in the country where they grew up.

Maybe he gets his wall in the process, maybe not. But what seems increasingly clear is that, while Clinton tries to purge her demons by explaining how she lost, Trump is busy fashioning a perfect world for Democrats to prevail. Which is to say, he may get more accomplished for the Democratic Party than Clinton could have with a Republican-dominated Congress.

Consider: Immigration reform is beginning to look a lot less Draconian and a lot more Pope-ish. Bannon, a Catholic, notably remarked during a recent "60 Minutes" interview that the church has been "terrible" on immigration, encouraging forgiveness rather than wall-building, because, he said, it needs illegal immigrants to fill the pews. Such a charmer, that one.

Also, the wall is not, in fact, getting built, though repairs are currently being made to existing wall-like structures. Ditto health care, which, instead of being repealed and replaced, likely will be an Obamacare fix, followed by a single-payer system that Democrats wanted all along and that Trump supported before he became a "Republican."

Thus, it would seem that Democrats really won the election and that President Trump, despite his faux-angry campaign promises, is a pretty good Democrat after all. Congratulations, Mr. President, on your best performance yet. Congratulations are also owed to former President Obama, whose chief legacy survives. Congratulations, Sen. Sanders: Your day is nigh.

Finally, congratulations, Madame Secretary: Everybody knows you won, as well as why you lost. You get the last word, a great haircut, and you didn't have to take the worst job in the world. Not a bad day's work.

Parker's email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com
Eric Gay/STF

With the recovery from Hurricane Harvey ramping up to full speed in Texas, the first political shots were fired over Washington's approval of an initial aid package for Texas -- and why four U.S. Texas congressmen voted against it. They're all from Dallas-Fort Worth and North Texas.

At the same time, Gov. Greg Abbott was confident that additional federal funding will soon be on its way to bolster the recovery in the Lone Star State, where Harvey cut a 300-mile swath of devastation along the Texas coast, from Corpus Christi to Houston and points east.
The following are excerpts from reports generated by the Houston Police Department:

Alicia A. Williams, 34, of Route 5, Box 490 in Salem, was issued a citation for private peace disturbance after an incident at a Sommerfield Drive residence at 6:35 p.m. Sept. 2.

Williams was cited after an officer was dispatched regarding a woman yelling and screaming at the location. She was taken to the Texas County Jail, fingerprinted and released the next morning.

Anthony D. Bigby Jr., 31, of 114 Sugar Maple Drive in Houston, was cited for driving without a valid license after a traffic stop on Sept. 12.

Angela D. Briggs, 40, of 315 W. Chestnut St. in Houston, was arrested Sept. 11 for having an active City of Houston warrant for possession of marijuana.

An officer who was aware of the warrant made the arrest after observing Briggs walking on Second Street around 2 p.m. She was taken to the Texas County Jail, where she was unable to post $200 bond.

Carol M. Dicarro, 53, of 424 King Street in Houston, and Cody Laughlin, 22, of 422 King Street in Houston, were each issued citations for fourth-degree assault after an incident on King Street at 5:40 p.m. Aug. 10. An investigating officer cited them after determining they had each committed an assault during an argument over a debit card.

Bruce A. Batchelor, 33, of 17169 Indian Creek road in Houston, was issued citations for driving with a revoked license, failure to register a motor vehicle and no insurance after an Aug. 10 traffic stop on Second Street.

Lyndsey J. Diefenbach, 29, of 11419 Reed Road at Licking, was cited for stealing under $750 after allegedly shoplifting at Walmart on Sept. 5.

Jason Soileau, 44, of 14010 Arnot Road in Licking, was issued a citation for property damage after allegedly damaging products Aug. 30 at Walmart.

An investigating officer reported that a member of store management stated Soileau had come to the store on Aug. 26 to check on Coca Cola Products and that surveillance video showed him using a utility knife to cut open a bag of cat litter and stab several bottles of laundry detergent. The officer observed the video and met with Soileau, who admitted to the offense.

Kathleen V. Deluca, 58, of Hartville, was issued a citation for stealing under $750 after allegedly shoplifting from Walmart on Sept. 1.

Ronald J. Fleming, 31, of 15300 Piney Drive in Houston, was issued a citation for stealing under $750 after allegedly shoplifting Aug. 22 at Walmart.

Michael L. Termaine, 49, of 17753 Highway B in Houston, was issued a citation for steeling under $750 after allegedly shoplifting Aug. 31 at Walmart.

Marcia A. Bailey, 46, of 309 Holt Street in Houston, was arrested Aug. 31 for having an active Texas County warrant for possession of a controlled substance.
The following are excerpts from reports generated by the Texas County Sheriffs Department:

The owner of Oak Hill Trading at Houston reported Aug. 26 that a 57-year-old Houston man was looking through vehicles after hours and wasnt welcome on the firms property. An investigating deputy made contact with the man and advised him not to return.

A deputy was dispatched around 10 p.m. Sept. 1 to check on a 52-year-old man at his Airport Road residence at Cabool. The man reportedly had called 911 about 10 times prior to the officers arrival.

The officer observed that the man was extremely intoxicated. He told the officer he just wanted to talk to someone. The officer advised the man that services exist for that, and that 911 and the sheriffs department are mainly for emergency calls.

Around 10:30 p.m. Sept. 13, a deputy assisted the Missouri State Highway Patrol with a stolen vehicle at a storage unit facility in Houston. A juvenile boy and girl found in the vehicle were transported to a detention center in Mountain Grove.

A deputy on Sept. 3 investigated a report that a 63-year-old Plato man had driven his skid steer across private properties owned by a 62-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man.

After consulting with the Missouri Department of Transportation and observing where the skid steers tracks were, the officer determined the man had driven on public right of way and not on either private property.

A deputy on Sept. 3 responded to a report by the Mountain Grove Police Department that a stolen vehicle had been found in a barn on Jackson Road in Cabool.

During a search of two barns at the location, the deputy discovered a deer that had been poached. T Missouri Department of Conservation dispatched an agent, who didnt find the stolen vehicle, but two men at the location were found to have active warrants and were subsequently arrested.

A 57-year-old Willow Springs man reported Sept. 5 that someone had shot two surveillance cameras at his Highway 137 residence. The man named three neighbor men as suspects.

A deputy was dispatched Sept. 11 regarding a report of theft at a Shafer Road residence at Licking.

A 28-year-old woman who lives there told the officer a Yamaha Raptor ATV valued at $3,000 and a Sony CD player valued at $20 had been stolen. There are no suspects.

A deputy was dispatched Sept. 14 regarding a report of a man bothering customers at Walts Store in Roby.

A woman working at the store told the officer the man had been bothering people for the past two days and she was worried about him being there. While the deputy was talking with the woman, the man walked into the store.

The officer asked him to step outside and advised him that he was worrying the cashier and would have to leave. The man said he would leave and walked across the road to Dollar General.

A 33-year-old Licking man reported Sept. 2 that four guns with a total value of $1,450 had been stolen from his Highway 32 residence. Investigation of the case is ongoing.

Texas County Jail admissions

Sept. 6

Ronald K. Atkisson  Houston PD hold

Roger A. Christ  parole violation

Heather Pennington  endangering welfare of a child

Matthew Corkell  endangering welfare of a child

Gaige C. Watts  possession of controlled substance

Patrick L. Vaughn  DWI

Coltin J.L. Andrews  unlawful use of weapon, property damage

Lucas L. McGaugh  72-hour commitment

Sept. 7

Megan L. Neal  probation and parole warrant

Erik S. Warren  72-hour commitment

Sept. 8

Corey R. Crumm  48-hour commitment

Sept. 10

Ronald K. Atkisson  Rolla PD hold

Shane L. Briggs  Wright County hold

Sept. 12

Lisa R. Sisler  assault, resisting arrest

Tammy L. Sprague  assault

Sept. 13

Shasta B. Atkisson  possession of controlled substance

Lucas McGaugh  72-hour commitment

Brian S. Powell  tampering with motor vehicle

Marcia A. Bailey  possession of controlled substance

Sept. 15

Louie D. Mowan  possession of controlled substance

Stephanie Hawkins  parole warrants

Jennifer Holden  48-hour commitment

Brenda D. Ramsey  arson

Corey R. Crumm  48-hour commitment

Sept. 16

Justin D. Christopher  possession of controlled substance, resisting

Lewis A. Gandy  passing bad checks

Christina Shepherd  Phelps County hold

Bobby W. Williams  48-hour commitment

Ashley N. Wells  48-hour commitment

Sept. 17

Neilson N. Neal  trespassing, possession of controlled substance
Country

Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Canada Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cuba, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Dominican Republic Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Haiti, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Jamaica Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Mexico, United Mexican States Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Virgin Islands Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print.

Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition.

If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create.
As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content.

When you click get started below it will walk you through creating an online account to attach your print subscription number to.

After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE NUMBER OFF OF THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OR ANYTHING AFTER JANUARY 28, 2019 TO GAIN ACCESS!

OLD ACCOUNT NUMBERS WILL NOT WORK

The account number and zip code are easily available on your most recent issue of the High Plains Journal or Midwest Ag Journal in the address fields as is shown here. Sometimes the account number has extra zero's in front of it, just ignore those.
zabelin via Getty Images

Imagine for a second that you are a member of the Taliban. Let's say you are in your early thirties so you were an impressionable teenager in 2001 when, in your opinion, US troops flooded into your country under the cover of aerial bombardments that you didn't know were possible. Life as you knew it was ripped apart. You left education to join the jihad.

Fast forward 16 years and you are now somewhat of an 'elder'. You've lost countless friends, colleagues and family members. You've lived day-to-day for 16 years, constantly on the move, unable to trust anyone and forever wary of the whirring-in-the-sky. All you've ever known is the fight against what you see as foreign invaders and their Afghan stooges - many of whom would kill you in an instant if they had the chance.

Advertisement

Yet things are looking up. Life is easier since most US forces left in 2014. You control territory again and still have sponsorship from neighbouring states and other backers.

Then the Afghan Government, which you see as a mere collection of disingenuous and corrupt warlords that would collapse the second international backing stops, asks you to come to the table to talk peace.

Yes, you are tired of war but cannot admit it openly for fear of reprisals from the hawks in your movement. Even if peace was possible - could you trust the Afghan government? The same officials responsible for their war strategy also seem to be responsible for making peace - so isn't their peace strategy just an extension of their war strategy?

It doesn't seem genuine and there is no offer on the table. Nobody has outlined what would happen to you and your fellow fighters. Would there be power-sharing? How would you make a living? Who would protect you from retributive attacks by ethnic rivals? Could you trust the Afghan Security Forces who you fought for so long? What would happen to US forces? There would have to some form of agreed withdrawal - which to you seems unlikely given that President Trump just approved an increase.

Advertisement

So when the Afghan Government tells you to "come to peace" it seems that what they really mean is "surrender and ask forgiveness".

What would your answer be?

The point is that 'peace' has for too long been synonymous to 'surrender' in Afghanistan. Since 2001, the insinuation has been that peace will come when the Taliban lay down their arms and reintegrate into Afghan societal structures and institutions, i.e. surrender.

For 16 years, military action has driven efforts in Afghanistan, largely on a year-by-year basis. Both Afghan and international actors have been striving for the 'win', i.e. comprehensive defeat of the Taliban. The underpinning assumption was that the Taliban could be beaten out of existence or weakened into surrender. Likewise the Taliban has rejected any legitimacy for the government and clings to the reintroduction of the Islamic Emirate.

Making surrender a condition for peace is a flawed assumption. Insurgent ideology cannot be defeated with conventional military action and pressure can never reach tipping point as long as the Taliban enjoy sanctuary and safe-haven outside of Afghanistan. In any case, fighters willing to die for their cause will do exactly that before they surrender.

Despite being widely, if reluctantly, recognised that there is no military solution in Afghanistan, the surrender-narrative still prevails. The assumption is now that only military pressure will to force the Taliban to the table. This is another flawed assumption. It is more likely to prompt resentment and entrenchment.

Advertisement

Even if more bombs and bullets did push the Taliban to the table, forcing someone to negotiate when they are not ready or willing will only make them unlikely to be open to compromise or able to stomach the costs of peace.

So what do we do instead?

The first pre-requisite for any genuine Afghan peace process is reshaping the surrender-narrative. The term 'peace' itself must be reclaimed so that it is no longer viewed with suspicion or equated to surrender and weakness. Those who are hostile to it become comfortable with it.

A desirable concept of peace must dominate public space and monopolise the public mind-set so it is ingrained as the eventual - and only - way forward. If peace is the primary issue in the public's mind and the goal they desire then once negotiations do begin, a step towards the enemy will be seen as a response to a public demand and not an act of desperation, betrayal or surrender.

There must be efforts - on all sides - to help people see that negotiating does not mean forgiving or forgetting the past, but being pragmatic about the future. It means that parties try to understand opponent's interests and attempt to meet them without sacrificing their own. It does not represent surrender.

Also critical is to ensure that a peace process is not seen as an effort to return life to the way it was before war. Peace must be framed as a process of enhancement for both sides, not as an antagonistic clash of parties where one loses and one wins (or both lose). It must be marketed as a process of mutual gain for both sides, not a zero-sum game.

Advertisement

No matter how difficult it will be to stomach, peace must involve the creation of something new that benefits everyone.
Royal Dutch Shell

David Katz, founder and CEO of the Plastic Bank, the world's only organisation to monetise plastic waste.

Growing up on the picturesque coastline of British Columbia, I have always been passionate about the need to protect the ocean. As CEO of the Plastic Bank, I'm on a mission to make plastic more valuable, and reduce its presence in our precious oceans. So why have I partnered with Shell?

Advertisement

I am the first to admit that we might make unlikely bedfellows. But I believe in the power of scale, and with 43,000 sites in 80 countries, Shell can enable us to reach up to 30 million people a day. And as we reach the milestone of 50,000 Kg of plastic waste removed from Haiti's oceans after just one campaign together, the power of this partnership starts to show.

The Plastic Bank created the concept of Social Plastic, a mechanism for transferring more wealth to the world's poor by assuring they receive a consistent, above-market rate for plastic gathered safely from the world's oceans.

The greater the demand for Social Plastic, the higher premium it will command and the more impact it will have. It's a virtuous circle which accelerates as it grows: for example, we also enable entrepreneurs to set up local convenience stores which accept plastic waste as currency, as well as enabling individuals to trade it for money, items and services directly.

In this way, the value of Social Plastic goes beyond the commodity price of plastic: a ladder of opportunity is created for the world's poor by providing access to income, goods and services and plastic is kept out of the ocean.

Advertisement

The more that can be done to reveal the true value (and cost) of plastic and to reduce its use, the more opportunity there will be to keep our oceans clear of plastic waste. That's why I partnered with Shell to launch a reusable plastic water bottle in their retail sites in the UK and around the world as they share a common objective that by reducing waste we can create a better future.

The bottle itself is made from local recycled plastic, and each bottle sold supports the removal of 2kg of waste from the ocean surrounding Haiti - with this recovered waste turned into Social Plastic to be sold at a premium, providing funds to extend our work even further.

What next for Plastic Bank? We currently have operations in Haiti and the Philippines and plan to expand through similar work in Indonesia and Brazil. Excitingly, we will be able to extend our work even further through a new app launching in 2018 which will create a secure electronic plastic exchange with the power to reach across the world. Powered by Blockchain technology, it will include digital savings along with the ability for anyone on the planet to operate a convenience store for the poor in which plastic waste is the currency.

The long-term ambition is to prevent the eight million tonnes of plastic that ends up in our oceans every year by revealing its value.

Advertisement

To accomplish this, continued support and involvement from companies, organisations, and individuals is key - everyone can be part of the solution.
Mohammad Ponir Hossain / Reuters

Images of thousands of refugees fleeing Myanmar have quite rightly focused global attention on the human tragedy of displacement and the search for safety.

However, there is another story here, namely the scramble to deliver aid to over 400,000 refugees - the population of a small city.

Advertisement

Dramatic displacements like these require a huge humanitarian response to ensure new arrivals live with dignity.

Indeed it is our legal, humanitarian, and above all, moral responsibility to provide sanctuary and a dignified way of life.

All too often we see scenes of chaotic and undignified 'do-it-yourself' aid distribution.

Of trucks and vans with stick-wielding men throwing aid to crowds of refugees, jostling for position.

Although there is good intention here, it is undignified and breaks pretty much every humanitarian standard.

Advertisement

So what is going wrong?

To put it simply, emergency aid in these first few weeks runs at two speeds - fast and frantic (meeting immediate needs) and sound and steady (bulk delivery on aid based of clear needs assessments and properly procured/mobilised aid items).

Most international aid agencies are very good at the sound and steady and are often fully operational by week three or four.

This is no mean feat. Sound and steady can deliver a refugee camp hosting 20,000 refugees with shelter and water and sanitation in four weeks which is something to behold.

For far too long though, the international community has ignored the crucial role that local and national aid agencies play in humanitarian response.

Advertisement

They have the know-how and access and are often the first to respond to disasters.

However, all too often international aid agencies either ignore them or form very lop-sided partnerships that overwhelm local partners.

At worst they recruit staff from local/national aid agencies and disrupt their programmes.

If international aid agencies are genuine about serving the most vulnerable, they need to change their strategic approach to emergency aid and seek out equitable partnerships that invest in local capacity.

Only then can we see dignified and effective aid in the first days of a disaster.
On September 18th, 1997 Wales voted 'Yes' to devolution by less than 7,000 votes out of over a million cast.

As an enthusiastic Labour Cardiff Councillor I had set up and chaired the Cardiff cross-party 'Yes For Wales' campaign after Labour won our landslide in May of that year.

It was clear to me from the outset that the voters of Cardiff were at best lukewarm to the idea. Many traditional Labour voters couldn't see why we needed a new body when they had just voted massively for a Labour UK Government.

Advertisement

Our campaign in Cardiff was energetic, imaginative and colourful. One of our keenest volunteers, Sally Davies, designed green and red ribbons which became ubiquitous across Wales during the campaign. The late Geoff Mungham, a fellow Labour Cardiff Councillor at the time, even persuaded the proprietors of a local Market to put up an enormous banner to persuade shoppers to vote 'Yes'.

In the end our most effective argument on the doorstep and at our street stalls was that devolution was an insurance policy against a rebirth of Thatcherism affecting Wales, rather than appeals for national autonomy.

I knew that Cardiff would vote no, but I also knew that if we could run a vigorous campaign and maximise the losing Yes vote in Cardiff, it could help the overall Yes vote across the finishing line.

On the night the exit polls seemed to suggest my pessimism was misplaced, but then the early results pointed to a victory for the 'No' campaign.

Advertisement

The atmosphere was subdued at the official count at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and tense at the 'Yes' campaign party at the Park Hotel.

I even gave an interview to my old acquaintance Michael Crick of the BBC where I all but conceded we had lost.

Then as the wee hours wore on news started to trickle down that they were deliberately holding back the result in Carmarthen because it was good enough to deliver a last gasp win by a short head for 'Yes'.

When the result was officially announced there was a spontaneous explosion of joy in the Park Hotel which included a number of us climbing on a table that collapsed under the strain.

A special post referendum fundraiser was held a few weeks later in Ystradgynlais to help pay the bill for the broken table.

Advertisement
PA Wire/PA Images

'Turn away and hopefully he's swinging.'

This is the advice undercover reporter Callum Tulley receives from a fellow G4S detainee custody officer at Brook House Immigration Removal Centre, in footage aired last week on BBC Panorama, on how to treat someone under 'suicide watch'. Callum and his colleagues are sitting round a table in the staff room and one of the officers, Calvin, has been bragging about the physical violence he inflicted on one such detainee, a vulnerable Egyptian national:

'I obviously went out to make sure no one is looking... bang his head... and as he's banging, on the bounce, I went [hits table with hand] and sort of held it there! [held head down on the table] attention seeking little prick... I don't have any sympathy for any of them.'

Advertisement

One of the stark truths to emerge from last week's expose is that detention centres not only traumatise detainees, the institutions also brutalise the staff. Violence is normalised. The demonising effect of power and a lack of accountability was demonstrated in the notorious Stanford Prison experiment of 1971. Within six days volunteer student guards were subjecting volunteer student prisoners to such a level of psychological torture that the experiment had to be abandoned. As Callum saw at Brook House, while some officers cannot deal with the violence, and end up resigning, others become 'immune to the pain and suffering that they see, and then some actually turn to the other side and take part in the abuse.'

The banal evil in these centres is chillingly reminiscent of the words of the Auschwitz Commandant, Rudolf Hoss, as he awaited trial at Nuremberg. The dominant attitude at the camp was total indifference, Hoss told his US army psychiatrist, any other sentiment 'never even occurred to us.'

G4S have a poor track history, which has been well documented in the media since the story of Callum's whistleblowing report emerged. Despite the multinational company's record of incompetence and violence, the Home Office continues to award them the complex and challenging task of running immigration detention centres.

But none of this is news.

Duncan Lewis Solicitors, the law firm at which I work, holds a 'detention contract' with the Legal Aid Agency, which means that we have represented and continue to represent thousands of men and women in these centres. Many of our clients are victims of torture, rape and trafficking, who, under the Home Office's own published policies, are unlawfully detained, sometimes for several years. These clients, across all the UK's detention centres, have been complaining about the kind of abuse shown in the documentary for years.

Advertisement

Only this August, one of our clients in Brook House was compelled to make three complaints against detention staff. First, he told us, he was pushed around by a group of officers for no reason. When he tried to defend himself, he was sent into solitary confinement for 24 hours. Second, he was told by a nurse that she thought he was Muslim and that he 'should not be gay' if that is the case. Third, he was told by an officer, in front of other detainees, that he should change his clothes as he 'looked gay'. This client is seeking asylum on the basis of his sexuality and lives in terror that the other detainees will find out he is gay.

Many of our clients watched the Panorama expose whilst in detention. One, Vitor Cassombe, a Portuguese national, was detained at Brook House until the day the documentary was aired. I asked him how he felt as he watched the footage of abuse:

'It was upsetting; it could have been me or anyone else that was at Brook House at the time. They [detention officers] don't try to understand what we're going through, because it's not them, they don't care about it. It's good that that guy was actually recording everything, he was the only one who thought it was wrong, even the nurses, they're used to it now, it's too normal for them.'

Vitor is still detained (elsewhere) but he was keen for us to use his full name:

'I have nothing to hide, I'm speaking for everyone, they're the ones in the wrong, they need to be exposed.'

We have seen all this before. In 2015, a Channel 4 undercover report exposed similar staff brutality at the women-only detention centre in Bedfordshire, Yarl's Wood IRC, run by Serco, another multinational public service provider. The expose was followed with the expected public outrage and finger-wagging. But even two years ago it was appropriate for Yvette Cooper, the then shadow home secretary, to call out the hypocrisy:

Advertisement

'There is no point in ministers pretending to be shocked at news of abuse. This is not news. Even now, the ministers have not set up an independent inquiry.'

Like Serco, G4S have commenced 'a full investigation'. In the expose, we see G4S officers refusing to record a use of force or the fact that a detainee had missed a meal ('because he's a prick'). Indeed, a former senior manager at G4S, Nathan Ward, told the BBC that he warned his company's management about staff 'roughness' at Brook House three years ago. How can we have any confidence in the integrity of an in-house investigation by G4S?

Callum Tulley's brave reporting has shed some light on abuse carried out in detention centres, nine G4S officers have been suspended, and Twitter is all a-chirrup with calls for radical detention reform and the imposition of a time-limit (the UK being the only EU country not to have one), but we cannot allow this to be yet another outrage that fades from public consciousness against the backdrop of Brexit and Trump.

So where do we go from here? As Nathan Ward put it on Panorama, '[i]t is too simple just to look at the individuals, even though their actions are deplorable, we need to look at the people who have put these people in place, and allowed them to do what they've done.'
Last week I started a petition on the House of Commons petition website calling for a referendum on the final Brexit deal (see details further down). This is why I think such a referendum is a necessary part of the democratic process.

In June 2016, the British people voted in an advisory referendum on remaining or leaving the European Union. By 51.9% to 48.1% the UK public chose to support leaving the EU. In March 2017, Theresa May's Government triggered Article 50 and set in motion the process for leaving the European Union.

Advertisement

But let us go back a few months. In February 2016, David Cameron's government negotiated an EU reform deal that included: a seven-year emergency brake that would allow the restriction of in-work benefits to EU migrants for four years; exclusion for the UK from the EU's goal of 'ever-closer union'; stronger protections from Eurozone country regulations; and limits to child benefits sent abroad. The British public, entering the voting booths in June 2016, knew what a 'Remain' vote entailed.

What they did not know was what a 'Leave' vote entailed. By April 2019 they should. The Conservative government is currently trying to negotiate a deal with the EU. This deal aims to address the 'divorce' bill, trade agreements for goods and services, single market access, financial regulation, the status of UK/EU citizens living abroad, border controls and much, much more. Whatever is in that final agreement - if one can be reached - is likely to be unpalatable for many, whether they voted for 'Leave' and 'Remain'. There will be voters who believe the UK would be better off leaving with no agreement rather than take the one on the table. Similarly, there will some 'Leave' voters who find the final agreement so disagreeable, and the 'no deal' alternative so risky, that they would prefer to remain in the EU after all. This is not to say those people made the wrong choice in 2016, but that they made a decision in 2016 without the full facts of the realities of Brexit. Conversely, it is conceivable that an excellent deal in 2019 might convince some original 'Remain' voters that accepting a deal would be a better option.

The reasons people voted 'Leave' or 'Remain' in 2016 varied from one person to the next. For this reason, different aspects of the deal being negotiated will be important to different people. For example, contrary to promises by some politicians that the UK would receive a windfall of 350m per week that could be spent on the NHS, it is likely that the UK will pay a large 'divorce' bill (to settle its EU liabilities). Should the UK and EU negotiate a divorce bill of 60 billion, this would cost each British household over 2,000. For some, this is an acceptable cost for Brexit, for others it is not. The final amount negotiated will affect whether people would prefer to take the deal and leave the EU, reject the deal and leave the EU, or remain within the EU - and people can only make that choice when the final deal is known.

Advertisement

Similarly, some people would rather leave the EU without a deal than accept freedom of movement. Some people would rather remain in the EU than take a deal which lacked a comprehensive trade agreement for selling our goods and services into EU markets. Some people would rather accept a bad deal than take no deal at all, and others would prefer to take a good deal than stay within the EU. Different people have different red lines, and the only way the British public can make a meaningful, informed decision on this issue is to do so once the final deal is known. Then, and only then, must the British people vote on their future.

I do not want to re-run the 2016 referendum, but just as a vote of the people started this process, so one should end it. This time there must be not two, but three options. I have submitted the following proposal to the House of Commons petition website:

In a straight vote of these three options it is likely that the 'Leave' vote would be split and the 'Remain' vote would win. That would not do British democracy justice. As far as I can see, the Single Transferable Vote (the system used in our mayoral elections) would offer the fairest way to choose between these three options without biasing in favour of 'Leave' or 'Remain'.

Advertisement

Brexit is the single most important event since we joined the European Economic Community in 1973. Its impact will be felt for generations. Only when a final deal is known, will the British public be in a position to make an informed choice about the future of their country. Parliament must allow them that choice.
FOR SALE: Rolling Stone Magazine

Iconic music and political magazine Rolling Stone is for sale. Founded by Jann Wenner in 1967, Wenner Media sold a 49% stake to Singapore's Bandland Technologies in 2016. Wenner has retained Methuselah Advisors to find and filter strategic options for its majority interest in Rolling Stone to best position the brand for future growth.

Wenner and his 29 year old son Gus, who is president and COO of Wenner Media, were interviewed by the New York Times, and Jann said that Rolling Stone hoped to find a buyer with lots of money.

Rolling Stone has played such a role in the history of our times, socially and politically and culturally. We want to retain that position, he added.

The magazine celebrates 50 years in November.

Share on:
State Sen. Adam Hinds, Mayor Linda Tyer, state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, Yummy Treasures owner Beth Carpenter, SBA Massachusetts District Director Robert Nelson, and SBA Berkshire Regional Director Keith Girouard. Mayor Linda Tyer. Keith Girouard helped Red Apple Butchers with business planning, financial modeling, and finding the right location. Beth Carpenter and Robert Nelson cuts a cake for the celebration of Yummy Treasure's award. State Sen. Adam Hinds. State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier. The SBA and local officials honored the businesses on Thursday. PreviousNext

SBA Honors Red Apple Butchers And Yummy Treasures



Red Apple Butchers is a nose-to-tail shop that opens its expanded location this week. PITTSFIELD, Mass.  It was about 10 years ago when Beth Carpenter wanted to get rid of some excess jewelry making supplies.

She sold them online and turned a decent income. Sales grew and eventually took over her living room. It got so large of an operation she brought her husband, Greg, on to help run the business.

Yummy Treasures continued to grow from there.

Two years ago, she opened a storefront on Commercial Street.

Now, Yummy Treasures is the No. 1 shop on Etsy for jewelry and crafting supplies and the winner of the Massachusetts Small Business Administration's Microenterprise of the Year.

"The fact that you are a family business means so much. We have a lot of legacy businesses and they all started like this and so many started in their living room. And that's the beginning of your story, starting at a kitchen table," state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier told Carpenter at the shop on Thursday, when SBA officials joined local officials to celebrate the award.

SBA District Director Robert Nelson presented the award to Carpenter in Boston a week ago but came to the Berkshires Thursday for the local celebration.

He said the organization offers a lot of assistance for small businesses from technical assistance programs to loans. The organization just got another federal grant of $500,000, which could match small businesses up to $12,000 to expand or start exporting -- which Yummy Treasures does.

"It is really important for me and what we do in the commonwealth to make sure that businesses all across the state know about the SBA programs and services. We're really happy we had nominees from the western part of the state and a winner from Pittsfield," Nelson said.

State Sen. Adam Hinds was particularly taken by the way Yummy Treasures can be successful on both the online marketplace and in a storefront.

"You are putting your finger on something we are all struggling with right now. How do our downtown shops exist when folks are moving to online sales? And here you've become the No. 1 on Etsy. It blows my mind," Hinds said.

Mayor Linda Tyer praised the work of all involved, from the SBA that helped perfect the company's business plan to the state for funding the SBA and the city officials on the ground helping to allow the business to grow.

"It is a great addition to this rich fabric of economy we have in Pittsfield. We are really grateful that you took a risk on our city and you are opening your business right here," Tyer said.

Yummy Treasures wasn't the only small business SBA officials visited on Thursday.

Red Apple Butchers is opening in its expanded location on North Street on Wednesday. It was just four years ago when butcher Jazu Stine was asked to join four other businesses in co-leasing a space at Berkshire Organics. He took the leap and started the nose to tail butcher shop.

"I really believed there was an opportunity in this community to bring better food in, to close the gap. I am a believer that the food we eat is of vast importance and the system hasn't been working in our best interest for a long time, in particular when it comes to meat. I think there is a much better way to do it," Stine said.

"We took a risk and it was a great opportunity to grow and start small. We quickly realized that we were right, there is a need for that, and that we needed more space."

Now they'll be offering baked goods, produce, dairy and other food products out of its Crawford Square location.

"It is not just about meat but a philosophy of how you approach food, how you respect it, how you utilize it properly, how to not waste it," Stine said. "We now have the room to do that."



Nearly four years ago, Jazu Stine opened Red Apple Butchers alongside four other businesses at Berkshire Organics. His business has grown so much, he's expanding. Keith Girouard, the regional director of the Berkshire office for the SBA, said Red Apple Butchers was provided financial modeling and forecasting, helped with a business plan and scouting locations, and was aided in getting financing through Lee Bank and the Pittsfield Economic Revitalization Corp.

"This is what the Small Business Administration is all about, trying to help small businesses grow and succeed whether it is through our loan programs or our technical assistance," Nelson said.

The opening of such a shop supports a growing number of people living downtown, Tyer said. Recent years have seen the upper floors of North Street buildings being transformed into market-rate apartments and condominiums. A butcher shop adds to the changing dynamic of North Street.

"I'm really happy to be here to celebrate the opening of a new business right in our downtown that is going to be a great compliment to the art and culture scene, to the new downtown living we have and the emerging growth of market-rate housing," Tyer said. "It is a great moment for Pittsfield and North Street."

Farley-Bouvier said people didn't want to live downtown years ago but now that is changing.

"I think it is so cool when I see small businesses popping up to support the people living downtown," Farley-Bouvier said.

Hinds said focusing on the companies that are "right here, right now" is a winning proposition.

"The more we can do that, the better off we all are," Hinds said.
Bibi to Trump: We Must Address Terrible Nuclear Deal

The Fellowship | September 18, 2017

In the United States to speak at the United Nations General Assembly this week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with Donald Trump today. The Times of Israels Raphael Ahren reports that Netanyahu bashed the Iran nuclear deal and called for the world to address the Islamic Republics aggression in the Middle East:

Netanyahu, speaking after Trump, opened his remarks by thanking the president for strengthening the US-Israel alliance, and then moved on to attacking the Iran deal, which the president had said earlier in the day the US may back out of next month.

I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly call a terrible nuclear deal with Iran, and how to roll back Irans growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria, Netanyahu said, without elaborating whether he wanted the deal canceled or amended, before briefly touching on the peace process.

As you said, we will discuss the ways we can seize the opportunity for peace between Israel and the Palestinians and Israel and the Arab world. I think these things go together, the prime minister said.

Netanyahu went on to say that Washingtons position toward Israel at the UN had never been better than under Trump. Its been strong, its got both clarity and conviction, and I want to thank you on behalf of the people of Israel and Israels friends around the world  thank you, Mr. President, he said
Imperial Valley News Center

Command of 3rd Fleet Changes Hands as Vice Admiral Nora W. Tyson Retires

San Diego, California - Vice Adm. John D. Alexander relieved Vice Adm. Nora W. Tyson as commander of U.S. 3rd Fleet during a change of command and retirement ceremony held aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, Friday.

During the ceremony, Tyson retired from active duty after 38 years of honorable naval service.



Commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet Adm. Scott H. Swift, who served as the ceremony's guest speaker, said that when Tyson was commissioned the opportunities available for women was much different.



"Women were not allowed to serve in combatant ships, and they'd only just been given the opportunity to serve on sea duty aboard support and auxiliary ships less than a year prior. But for those of us that know her well, Nora was never one to let apparent obstacles get in the way of success," said Swift.



In July 2010, Tyson became the first woman to command a carrier strike group when she took control of the George H.W. Bush Strike Group, leading 13 ships, 80 combatant aircraft, and about 9,000 Sailors, as the commander of Carrier Strike Group Two. She led the strike group on its maiden deployment where they conducted combat operations in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. When she assumed command of U.S. 3rd Fleet in July 2015, Tyson became the first woman to command an operational numbered fleet.



"She would tell you that she was simply the beneficiary of fortunate timing, but any who have had the privilege to work with and for Nora know that she has earned her position through her tireless work ethic, her outstanding leadership, her unwavering pride in service, and her love for Sailors. Without a doubt, she was the best person for the job," Swift said.



Under Tyson's command, 3rd Fleet's role expanded in the Pacific under the U.S. Pacific Fleet initiative Third Fleet Forward. Third Fleet Forward is an operational concept where 3rd Fleet maintains command and control of units throughout their deployment rather than transferring operational control to U.S. 7th Fleet once units cross the international date line. This provides the Pacific Fleet commander with additional flexibility and options by applying the full range of capabilities of both numbered fleets based on specific missions rather than geographic areas.



During her time on board, Tyson oversaw Third Fleet Forward deployments of two surface action groups, a carrier strike group, and several independently deploying ships.



During the ceremony, Swift also presented Tyson with her second Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of her exceptional meritorious service to the United States Navy.



In her remarks, Tyson acknowledged the barriers she's broken and said that while she is proud to have been the first woman to command a carrier strike group and the first woman to command an operational numbered fleet, she is even more proud to be part of a Navy where those milestones are in the past. She also thanked her friends, family, and those who have supported her throughout her career.



"As leaders, we know we do not succeed on our own. We are here because of the people who put their faith in us - the officers who pushed us beyond our comfort zones, the chiefs who molded us into naval officers, and perhaps most importantly, we are here because of all those incredible men and women we've been privileged to lead and mentor along the way - the Sailors and officers who placed their trust in us to make the right decisions," said Tyson.



Tyson said she was incredibly proud of the men and women serving in 3rd Fleet and was confident in turning over command to Alexander.



"I'm also proud to be handing this command over to a leader who I know will take 3rd Fleet to new heights. Sarge [Alexander], you are absolutely the right person for the job... I don't think, in fact I know, there's not a better job in the Navy, and I know you are ready for the challenges we're sure to face," said Tyson.



Swift said one of those challenges is the evolution of 3rd Fleet that will continue to evolve under Alexander's leadership.



"It is really about the continuation of a cultural change here at 3rd Fleet, begun by Nora but carried through by Sarge. Cultural change is commander's work, and it takes time. But our culture, what has made us so successful in history will continue to make us successful in the future, is the culture of a Navy and a Fleet that demands excellence in operation, always based on the highest standards of readiness," said Swift. "I couldn't think of a better individual to be flown behind Nora and taking over the helm of really a fleet of heritage in 3rd Fleet."



Alexander, whose most recent assignment was as director of Maritime Operations at U.S. Fleet Forces Command, said he was honored to take command and looks forward to carrying on the legacy of past 3rd Fleet commanders.



"Adm. Swift's vision of 3rd Fleet Forward as a second maneuver element in the Pacific is more relevant today than ever...we must remember our roots. We are the ancestors of Bull Halsey and Duke Hernandez who were charged with transforming 3rd Fleet at a critical time in our history. It is our time to carry this operational vision forward. I pledge you my absolute best effort in continuing the transformation initiated by Nora. It is my promise to each and every one of you," said Alexander.



Alexander has served as commander of Battle Force 7th Fleet (CTF 70/CSG 5), forwarded deployed aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in Yokosuka, Japan; assistant commander for Career Management at Navy Personnel Command; commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135; commanding officer of USS Juneau (LPD 10), forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan; and commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).



He also served tours as an A-6E bombardier/navigator with Attack Squadron (VA) 165, VA-155, and VA-196; staff of Cruiser Destroyer Group 3; executive officer of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69); assistant to the director of the Joint Staff; aviation commander detailer (PER-431); and as an A-6E instructor with VA-128.



U.S. 3rd Fleet was formed during World War II on March 15, 1943, under the command of Fleet Adm. William F. "Bull" Halsey. Third Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy. Third Fleet constantly coordinates with U.S. 7th Fleet to plan and execute missions based on their complementary strengths to promote ongoing peace, security, and stability throughout the Pacific theater of operations.
Imperial Valley News Center

Governor Brown Welcomes New Signatories to Under2 Coalition

New York City, New York - On the eve of Climate Week NYC 2017, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today welcomed 10 new members  including the Republic of the Marshall Islands  to the global pact of cities, states and countries committed to limiting the increase in global average temperature to below 2 degree Celsius, the level of potentially catastrophic consequences.

Climate change threatens the very existence of the Marshall Islands and many other places, said Governor Brown. Cities, states and countries are joining the Under2 Coalition to curb emissions and prevent a horrible catastrophe.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands  a convener of the High Ambition Coalition of countries that were instrumental in shaping the Paris Agreement and bringing it into force last year  endorsed the Under2 Coalition today during a meeting between Governor Brown and The Republics Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade John Silk, becoming the 17th nation to join.

Governor Brown and Minister Silk meet in New York City.

If we dont keep global temperature increases below 1.5 degrees, my country will not survive, and no country will be safe. Every country, every company, and every constituency must take ambitious climate action, and it is this groundswell of climate action that the Under2 Coalition is building. We are proud to sign the Under2 MOU as a further demonstration of our determination to lead by example, said Minister Silk. California is itself a shining example of climate leadership, and a place many Marshallese have come to call their new Pacific home. The High Ambition Coalition will work closely with Governor Brown in the lead-up to the Climate Action Summit in September next year, including to build a bridge between the Summit and national governments. It is crucial the Summit identifies opportunities to help governments ramp up their nationally determined contributions in time for world leaders to present them at the UN Secretary-Generals Climate Summit in 2019.

The Governor also announced today that nine other U.S. and international jurisdictions have signed on to the Under2 Coalition: the cities of Atlanta, Boulder, Orlando and Pittsburgh and Montgomery County, Maryland in the U.S.; Queensland, Australia; Quelimane, Mozambique; and the German states of Lower Saxony and Rhineland-Palatinate.

With the addition of these new members, the Under2 Coalition now includes 187 jurisdictions on six continents that collectively represent more than 1.2 billion people and $28.8 trillion GDP - equivalent to over 16 percent of the global population and 39 percent of the global economy. The coalition, formed in 2015 by the states of California and Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany to mobilize and galvanize bold climate action in the lead up to COP 21, pledges to limit greenhouse gas emissions to 2 tons per capita or 80 to 95 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.

More and more of the major issues, whether its fighting crime and terrorism or whether its climate change, are being fought on the local level. I think mayors around the world have recognized were now on the front lines on many of the major issues of our day. For this reason we have committed to the Under2 MOU and We Are Still In coalition to show our dedication to climate action. As a result, we will exceed the demands from the Paris agreement and work to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 90% compared to 2007 levels by the year 2040. The withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement puts us, as a nation, out of step with where the rest of the world is headed. That doesnt mean that the cities cant pick up the slack, said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

The City of Atlanta is honored to sign the Under2 MOU and join the network of organizations committed to greenhouse gases emissions mitigation. For three consecutive years, the City of Atlanta has led the nation in total commercial property committed to energy and water efficiency through the Atlanta Better Buildings Challenge. Our other sustainability initiatives include the installation of solar panels on municipal buildings, deployment of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure and the creation of an urban agriculture program. We look forward to sharing viable solutions, as well as working with other governmental agencies to learn from their programs geared at creating a healthier, cleaner and greener environment, said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.

The City of Pittsburgh is committed to building a more sustainable future for ourselves and our children. Joining the Under2 Coalition provides a global network of peers to help us achieve that goal. We are thrilled to participate in this international community of practice, said Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto.

Local action on climate is more important than ever, and we will continue to work with cities throughout Colorado and the nation to lead on climate. Boulders Climate Commitment goals set greenhouse gas reduction targets that exceed those outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement. We are honored to be part of the Under2 Coalition will continue on our path to significantly reduce our city and community emissions, said Boulder Mayor Suzanne Jones.

Now, more than ever, jurisdictions need to redouble their efforts to address climate change. We have many forward-thinking and concerned residents and businesses in Montgomery County, Maryland, who understand the urgency of this issue. We are proud to join the growing international coalition seeking to reduce the risks to the environment and the economy from climate change, said Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett.

Tomorrow, Governor Brown will help officially kick off Climate Week NYC 2017 with remarks during the opening ceremony and will discuss subnational climate leadership at the United Nations.
Governor Brown to Participate in United Nations, Climate Week NYC and Yale Climate Conference

Sacramento, California - Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today announced he will participate next week in events connected to Climate Week NYC 2017, the 72nd Regular Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, and the Yale Climate Conference in New Haven, Connecticut before traveling to Quebec City, Canada to meet with the premiers of Quebec and Ontario.

During the week, the Governor is expected to discuss subnational climate leadership at the United Nations, deliver remarks at the opening of Climate Week NYC 2017, welcome new members to the Under2 Coalition, announce new details regarding the 2018 Global Climate Action Summit, convene a meeting of U.S. Climate Alliance governors, join global climate leaders at the Yale Climate Conference and meet with the premiers of Quebec and Ontario to expand climate cooperation between California and Canadian provinces.

In June, Governor Brown was named Special Advisor for States and Regions ahead of this years UN Climate Change Conference (COP 23) by Fijis Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama  incoming president of COP 23. This followed meetings with Chinas President Xi Jinping during the Governor's week-long trip to China and with Germany's top environmental official, Minister Barbara Hendricks, in San Francisco. Earlier this month, Governor Brown attended the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, where he called for deeper Trans-Pacific collaboration on climate change.

Governor Brown continues to build strong coalitions of partners committed to curbing carbon pollution in both the United States through the U.S. Climate Alliance and around the globe with the Under2 Coalition. Governor Brown also launched America's Pledge on climate change with Michael Bloomberg earlier this year to help compile and quantify the actions of states, cities and businesses in the United States to drive down their greenhouse gas emissions consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement. In September 2018, the State of California will convene the world's climate leaders in San Francisco for the Global Climate Action Summit, where representatives from subnational governments, businesses, investors and civil society will gather with the direct goal of supporting the Paris Agreement.

In November, the Governor will take part in a number of international events in Europe focused on fighting global warming, including a climate symposium organized by the Vatican and this years United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 23) in Bonn, Germany.
Costa Rica's National Day

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "On behalf of the Government of the United States, we congratulate the people of Costa Rica on the 196th anniversary of your independence September 15.

"The strength and depth of our countries relationship is evident not only in our joint efforts to promote regional prosperity and security, but also in the robust exchange between our peoples, including the more than one million U.S. citizens who visit, study, and conduct business in your beautiful country each year.

"May the bond between our nations continue to be an example of the lasting partnership between vibrant democracies with shared values and common goals for our people.

"Best wishes to all of Costa Rica as you celebrate your nations independence."




This Isnt Our Last Love Letter



Dear Don Don,

Way back in 92



I walked into the room and knew



Never felt this way before



I shook your hand while gazing into your eyes



And the feeling grew



As I took a seat I knew



A love that would have my heart



Forever



I knew



Way back in 92





They say love at first sight doesnt always last or isnt true



We were the exception to that rule



Our love had no where to hide



A spark set fire



As if this is how the universe started





I never doubted our love or what we could do



Together we grew



Forming a bond everlasting



That became our glue



My euphoria was YOU



Im eternally grateful for the love and life we shared



For how fortunate we were :



to have and to hold

through sickness and in health

Til death do us part



Until we are together again



This isnt our last love letter



I love you with all my heart and soul



Yours forever,



Deirdre (Mrs. Hank Snow)





Im fortunate to have fallen in love with, marry and make a life with the sharpest, coolest, funniest, most rare, bad ass, tender loving, loyal man on the planet, my husband Don Imus.









A True American Hero

I dont know why it has been so hard for me to write about my dear friend Don Imus.



I certainly know what he meant to me, my family, my charity, my hospital and the millions of fans that listened and loved him for so many years.



I keep reading all the beautiful condolences that people are writing about how much a part of their lives were effected by listening to him over the years.

But what most people dont talk enough about is what he did for all of us.

In every sense of the word, he was an American Hero. His work with children with so many different illnesses and his dedication to their future was unmatched by anyone I have ever known or heard about.



Besides raising over $100,000,000 for so many causes, he took care of young people for over 20 years in a state where he could not breathe. Along with his incredible wife Deirdre, he created a world where children were not defined by their disease. That was a miracle! He was a miracle.

I will miss him ever day for the rest of my life.

I was blessed to be a part of his and Deirdes life.

No one will ever do what he did.

I love you Don Imus - A TRUE AMERICAN HERO





David Jurist

IMUS IN THE MORNING

FIRST DAY BACK!
Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Todays Google Doodle pays tribute to Dr Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), English wit and author of the Dictionary of the English Language, on the 308th anniversary of his birth.

Johnsons dictionary appeared in 1755 and remains a landmark achievement of English prose, an extraordinary individual undertaking that included over 42,000 entries and took its writer nine long years to assemble.

But who was Johnson? What else was he known for and why has his legacy endured beyond that of his many illustrious eighteenth century peers?

The best Google Doodles Show all 50 1 /50 The best Google Doodles The best Google Doodles Mister Rogers Google Doodle celebrating children's TV presenter Mister Rogers Google The best Google Doodles Lucy Wills Google Doodle celebrating haematologist Lucy Wills Google The best Google Doodles Falafel Google Doodle celebrating falafel Google The best Google Doodles St George's Day Google Doodle celebrating St George's Day Google The best Google Doodles James Wong Howe Google Doodle celebrating Hollywood golden age cinematographer James Wong Howe Google The best Google Doodles Seiichi Miyake Google Doodle celebrating Seiichi Miyake, developer of tactile paving Google The best Google Doodles Walter Cronkite Google celebrates US broadcast journalist Walter Cronkite's 100th birthday The best Google Doodles Lantern Festival 2016 Google celebrates the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations with a doodle of the Lantern Festival Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating Sergei Diaghilev Google Doodle celebrating art critic Sergei Diaghilev Google The best Google Doodles George Boole Google marks mathematician George Boole's 200th birthday The best Google Doodles Sergei Eisenstein Google Doodle celebrating soviet film director Sergei Eisenstein Google The best Google Doodles 41st anniversary of the discovery of 'Lucy' Google marks the 41st anniversary of the discovery of 'Lucy', the name given to a collection of fossilised bones that once made up the skeleton of a hominid from the Australopithecus afarensis species, who lived in Ethiopia 3.2 million years ago The best Google Doodles Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Google celebrates physician and suffragist Elizabeth Garrett Anderson 180th birthday The best Google Doodles Sir William Henry Perkin Google Doodle celebrating chemist Sir William Henry Perkin Google The best Google Doodles Nelly Sachs Google Doodle celebrating poet and playwright Nelly Sachs Google The best Google Doodles Thanksgiving 2018 Google Doodle celebrating Thanksgiving 2018 Google The best Google Doodles Nigerian Independence Day Google Doodle celebrating Nigerian Independence Day Google The best Google Doodles Mary Prince Google Doodle celebrating abolitionist Mary Prince Google The best Google Doodles Father's Day 2016 Google celebrates Father's Day The best Google Doodles Ebenezer Cobb Morley Google Doodle celebrating "father of football" Ebenezer Cobb Morley Google The best Google Doodles Octavia E Butler Google Doodle celebrating science fiction author Octavia E Butler Google The best Google Doodles Tamara de Lempicka Google Doodle celebrating painter Tamara de Lempicka Google The best Google Doodles Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss Google Doodle celebrating mathematician and physicist Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss Google The best Google Doodles Fanny Blankers-Koen Google Doodle celebrating Dutch Olympic gold medalist Fanny Blankers-Koen Google The best Google Doodles John Harrison Google Doodle celebrating clockmaker John Harrison Google The best Google Doodles Guillermo Haro Google Doodle celebrating astronomer Guillermo Haro Google The best Google Doodles St. David's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google The best Google Doodles Carter G Woodson Google Doodle celebrating Carter G Woodson, a pioneering African-American historian Google The best Google Doodles St Andrew's Day Google Doodle celebrating St Andrew's Day Google The best Google Doodles Gertrude Jekyll Google Doodle celebrating horticulturist Gertrude Jekyll Google The best Google Doodles Children's Day 2017 Google Doodle celebrating Children's Day 2017 Google The best Google Doodles Studio for Electronic Music Google Doodle celebrating the Studio for Electronic Music Google The best Google Doodles Olaudah Equiano Google Doodle celebrating abolitionist Olaudah Equiano Google The best Google Doodles Fridtjof Nansen Google Doodle celebrating Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen Google The best Google Doodles Ladislao Jose Biro Google celebrates Ladislao Jose Biro's 117th birthday The best Google Doodles Amalia Hernandez Google Doodle celebrating ballet choreographer Amalia Hernandez Google The best Google Doodles Dr Samuel Johnson Google Doodle celebrating lexicographer Dr Samuel Johnson Google The best Google Doodles British Sign Language Google Doodle celebrating British Sign Language Google The best Google Doodles Eduard Khil Google Doodle celebrating baritone singer Eduard Khil Google The best Google Doodles Fourth of July Google Doodle celebrating Fourth of July Google The best Google Doodles Victor Hugo Google Doodle celebrating author Victor Hugo Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating Giro d'Italia's 100th Anniversary Google Doodle celebrating Giro d'Italia's 100th Anniversary Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating St. Patrick's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. Patrick's Day Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google The best Google Doodles Steve Biko Today's Google Doodle features anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko Google The best Google Doodles The history of tea in Britain Google celebrates the 385th anniversary of tea in the UK The best Google Doodles Nettie Stevens Google celebrates geneticist Nettie Stevens 155th birthday The best Google Doodles William Morris Google celebrates English polymath William Morris' 182 birthday with a doodle showcasing his most famous designs Google The best Google Doodles Professor Scoville Google marks Professor Scovilles 151st birthday The best Google Doodles Sophie Taeuber-Arp Google marks artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp's 127th birthday

Samuel Johnson was born in Lichfield, Staffordshire, the son of a bookseller. He attended Prembroke College, Oxford, in his late teens but struggled to afford the fees, complained of the intellectual idleness of his contemporaries and felt humiliated when a fellow student took pity on him and presented him with a replacement pair of shoes as a gift.

The great man left university without completing his degree and launched himself into the coffeehouses and print shops of literary London, living a life of genteel poverty, forever under threat from his creditors. His earliest works included the long-form poems London and The Vanity of Human Wishes and the periodicals The Rambler and The Idler.

Having completed the mammoth task of assembling the dictionary, a commission for which he was handsomely reimbursed, Johnson wrote an analysis of Shakespeare and a biography of his friend Richard Savage, a poet convicted of murder.

A rare foray into fiction, The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia (1759), followed and proved a commercial success. The novella was an exotic philosophical fable that told the story of a wayward young royals decision to leave behind his isolated homeland, the Happy Valley, in search of true contentment in the wider world.

The primary reason for Johnsons enduring appeal though, outside of his own remarkable achievements in print, is surely the ongoing popularity of James Boswells fantastically detailed Life of Samuel Johnson (1791). The book recounts the many wise, comic and vitriolic sayings its subject produced when talking for victory late into the night with his peers and clubmates. That circle included such great figures of the age as portrait painter and Royal Academy founder Joshua Reynolds, actor David Garrick, politician Edmund Burke and playwright Oliver Goldsmith.

Boswell recalls such delightful comic incidents as Johnson good-naturedly dismissing Burke as a vile Whig, rebuking Goldsmith for being loose in his principles and declining a repeat visit backstage to visit Garrick at the theatre because, the silk stockings and white bosoms of your actresses excite my amorous propensities. His opinions on everything from remarriage ("the triumph of hope over experience") to women vicars and the merits of Alexander Pope are preserved for the ages in a work whose value cannot be overstated.

Boswell would also document Johnsons tour of Scotland in his company, while his life was recorded in a separate biography by another friend, the socialite Mrs Hester Thrale, who published her own reminiscences of their time together in 1786.

Today, a statue of Johnson looks out over his former stomping ground of Fleet Street while his name has lived on in the title of a leading prize for non-fiction writing (lately rechristened the Baillie-Gifford), the most recent recipient of which was Philippe Sands.

Modern audiences will no doubt remember Robbie Coltranes performance as the Great Cham in the BBC sitcom Blackadder The Third (1987) while fans of his famous barbed tongue include stand-up comedian Frank Skinner, who became president of the Dr Johnson Society in 2010.

The good doctors namesake, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, is another admirer, including him in his 2011 book Johnsons Life of London and devoting an episode of BBC Radio 4s Great Lives to his memory.
Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Todays Google Doodle marks what would have been the 308th birthday of Dr Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), a giant of English literature in every sense.

Johnson remains best known for his Dictionary of the English Language (1755), compiled by the sage of Lichfield entirely unaided over a nine-year period. Approached to write this epic tome by a group of prominent London booksellers including Robert Dodsley and Thomas Longman, Johnson was paid 1,500 guineas (about 220,000 in modern money) and set about the task with relish, meticulously gathering quotations to support his definitions.

The resulting work contains 42,733 entries over 2,300 pages and remains a colossal achievement, revered to this day and famed for its numerous droll comic touches. The word lexicographer, for instance, is defined as a harmless drudge, while oats is said to denote a grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.

The best Google Doodles Show all 50 1 /50 The best Google Doodles The best Google Doodles Mister Rogers Google Doodle celebrating children's TV presenter Mister Rogers Google The best Google Doodles Lucy Wills Google Doodle celebrating haematologist Lucy Wills Google The best Google Doodles Falafel Google Doodle celebrating falafel Google The best Google Doodles St George's Day Google Doodle celebrating St George's Day Google The best Google Doodles James Wong Howe Google Doodle celebrating Hollywood golden age cinematographer James Wong Howe Google The best Google Doodles Seiichi Miyake Google Doodle celebrating Seiichi Miyake, developer of tactile paving Google The best Google Doodles Walter Cronkite Google celebrates US broadcast journalist Walter Cronkite's 100th birthday The best Google Doodles Lantern Festival 2016 Google celebrates the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations with a doodle of the Lantern Festival Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating Sergei Diaghilev Google Doodle celebrating art critic Sergei Diaghilev Google The best Google Doodles George Boole Google marks mathematician George Boole's 200th birthday The best Google Doodles Sergei Eisenstein Google Doodle celebrating soviet film director Sergei Eisenstein Google The best Google Doodles 41st anniversary of the discovery of 'Lucy' Google marks the 41st anniversary of the discovery of 'Lucy', the name given to a collection of fossilised bones that once made up the skeleton of a hominid from the Australopithecus afarensis species, who lived in Ethiopia 3.2 million years ago The best Google Doodles Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Google celebrates physician and suffragist Elizabeth Garrett Anderson 180th birthday The best Google Doodles Sir William Henry Perkin Google Doodle celebrating chemist Sir William Henry Perkin Google The best Google Doodles Nelly Sachs Google Doodle celebrating poet and playwright Nelly Sachs Google The best Google Doodles Thanksgiving 2018 Google Doodle celebrating Thanksgiving 2018 Google The best Google Doodles Nigerian Independence Day Google Doodle celebrating Nigerian Independence Day Google The best Google Doodles Mary Prince Google Doodle celebrating abolitionist Mary Prince Google The best Google Doodles Father's Day 2016 Google celebrates Father's Day The best Google Doodles Ebenezer Cobb Morley Google Doodle celebrating "father of football" Ebenezer Cobb Morley Google The best Google Doodles Octavia E Butler Google Doodle celebrating science fiction author Octavia E Butler Google The best Google Doodles Tamara de Lempicka Google Doodle celebrating painter Tamara de Lempicka Google The best Google Doodles Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss Google Doodle celebrating mathematician and physicist Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss Google The best Google Doodles Fanny Blankers-Koen Google Doodle celebrating Dutch Olympic gold medalist Fanny Blankers-Koen Google The best Google Doodles John Harrison Google Doodle celebrating clockmaker John Harrison Google The best Google Doodles Guillermo Haro Google Doodle celebrating astronomer Guillermo Haro Google The best Google Doodles St. David's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google The best Google Doodles Carter G Woodson Google Doodle celebrating Carter G Woodson, a pioneering African-American historian Google The best Google Doodles St Andrew's Day Google Doodle celebrating St Andrew's Day Google The best Google Doodles Gertrude Jekyll Google Doodle celebrating horticulturist Gertrude Jekyll Google The best Google Doodles Children's Day 2017 Google Doodle celebrating Children's Day 2017 Google The best Google Doodles Studio for Electronic Music Google Doodle celebrating the Studio for Electronic Music Google The best Google Doodles Olaudah Equiano Google Doodle celebrating abolitionist Olaudah Equiano Google The best Google Doodles Fridtjof Nansen Google Doodle celebrating Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen Google The best Google Doodles Ladislao Jose Biro Google celebrates Ladislao Jose Biro's 117th birthday The best Google Doodles Amalia Hernandez Google Doodle celebrating ballet choreographer Amalia Hernandez Google The best Google Doodles Dr Samuel Johnson Google Doodle celebrating lexicographer Dr Samuel Johnson Google The best Google Doodles British Sign Language Google Doodle celebrating British Sign Language Google The best Google Doodles Eduard Khil Google Doodle celebrating baritone singer Eduard Khil Google The best Google Doodles Fourth of July Google Doodle celebrating Fourth of July Google The best Google Doodles Victor Hugo Google Doodle celebrating author Victor Hugo Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating Giro d'Italia's 100th Anniversary Google Doodle celebrating Giro d'Italia's 100th Anniversary Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating St. Patrick's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. Patrick's Day Google The best Google Doodles Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google Doodle celebrating St. David's Day Google The best Google Doodles Steve Biko Today's Google Doodle features anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko Google The best Google Doodles The history of tea in Britain Google celebrates the 385th anniversary of tea in the UK The best Google Doodles Nettie Stevens Google celebrates geneticist Nettie Stevens 155th birthday The best Google Doodles William Morris Google celebrates English polymath William Morris' 182 birthday with a doodle showcasing his most famous designs Google The best Google Doodles Professor Scoville Google marks Professor Scovilles 151st birthday The best Google Doodles Sophie Taeuber-Arp Google marks artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp's 127th birthday

The great man remained a prodigious writer throughout his life, publishing periodicals, poems, biographies and one philosophical novel, The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia (1759), widely read during the Enlightenment.

Beyond the dictionary, the most famous work associated with Johnsons name remains his friend James Boswells Life of Samuel Johnson (1791), a posthumously printed biography faithfully recording his wit and wisdom in exhaustive detail. It is to Boswell that we owe the preservation of many of this extraordinary orators fine words and bon mots, typically uttered in the company of the capitals leading lights, Johnson counting portrait painter and Royal Academy founder Joshua Reynolds, actor David Garrick, politician Edmund Burke and comic playwright Oliver Goldsmith amongst his social circle.

Here we present a selection of Dr Johnsons most celebrated aphorisms and sayings, many of which have entered the common parlance.

When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford. Johnson was a great advocate for London and lived happily at 17 Gough Square off Fleet Street for many years with his wife Elizabeth Tetty Johnson and their cat Hodge. The house, just yards from The Cheshire Cheese, his tavern of choice, is now a museum dedicated to Dr Johnsons memory.

Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.

I never desire to converse with a man who has written more than he has read.

The noblest prospect which a Scotchman ever sees, is the high road that leads him to England! Johnson was notorious for the joshing derision he displayed towards Scots, as demonstrated by the aforementioned dictionary definition or such assertions as, Knowledge was divided among the Scots, like bread in a besieged town. Boswell, a proud Highlander, sought to correct the prejudice and took Johnson to visit, a journey recorded in his Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1775)

A fly, sir, may sting a stately horse and make him wince; but one is but an insect, and the other is a horse still.

Curiosity is one of the permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect.

Tea amuses the evening, solaces the midnight, and welcomes the morning. Johnsons extraordinary output can in part be attributed to his positively heroic consumption of tea, a beverage with which he was infatuated, claiming to drink as many as 25 cups of an evening.

He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man. Johnson suffered from ill health throughout his life, beset by scrofula, gout and fits of depression. His melancholy often gave rise to misanthropy as indicated by the following observation: I hate mankind, for I think myself one of the best of them, and I know how bad I am. The above remark incidentally provides the epigraph to Hunter Thompsons classic gonzo odyssey Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1971).

Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.

The use of travelling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are.
Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

One of The Wolf of Wall Street's most memorable moments is, of course, its lengthy, lengthy quaalude scene.

However, despite being one of the greatest thespians of his age, it's a feat Leonardo DiCaprio couldn't accomplish entirely on his own; having never done drugs before, he enlisted the real Jordan Belfort to teach him exactly what it looks like.

"I showed him what it looks and feels like when you are high on quaaludes," Belfort told The New York Post. "I... started crawling around. We were both on the floor, drooling. His father walked into the room and asked us what the f*ck we were doing."

DiCaprio himself has corroborated the story, adding that he caught the sessions on tape, nicknamed "the lost Jordan tapes".

"He crawled around the floor to re-enact the stages of getting high. He wasn't the greatest actor, but he certainly gave me the inspiration," he told The Daily Mail in 2014.

The actors on Martin Scorsese's 2012 film took their (fake) drug-taking so seriously, in fact, that Jonah Hill ended up hospitalised after snorting too much fake cocaine. "If you ingest that much matter into your lungs youll get very sick, and we were literally doing fake coke for, like, seven months, every day," he revealed.

 The Wolf of Wall Street MovieBites

In this case, the fake substance being used was vitamin D powder, which Hill claims did have some beneficial effects: "I never had more vitamin D in my entire life - I think I could have lifted a car over my head."

Follow Independent Culture on Facebook for all the latest on Film, TV, Music, and more.
Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

A real-life corpse was reportedly discovered on the set of the BBC's new serial killer drama Rellik.

Filming is said to have been halted after a body was found at Cambridge Heath Park in east London.

Paterson Joseph, who plays a psychiatrist on the six-episode drama, told The Mirror: "The crew arrived to film their own dead body and the police told them they weren't able to, because they'd found a real dead body. It was bizarre, fact being stranger than fiction."

The 53-year-old actor added: "There were a lot of strange coincidences. Richard [Dormer] who plays our main character, getting impetigo and his face being covered in blotches and blemishes."

Dormer's character was scarred by an acid attack during the investigation.

"He got the same reaction as his actual character, who's been scarred in an acid attack. We found that odd," he said.

"Then there were the acid attacks which happened at the same time as we were filming ours. It's a strange show when it brings out these coincidences."

Rellik premiered on BBC One on 11 September, and can be watched on iPlayer.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

In the corner of Aladdins  the best chicken shop in Hounslow according to one customer  a little girl sat eating her chips and singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

By Monday lunchtime, news had yet to filter through to some that Yahyah Farroukh, the quiet 21-year-old who worked here frying chickens, had been arrested outside the front door on Saturday night, on suspicion of involvement in the Parsons Green bucket bomb attack.

A man dressed as if he was homeless had, staff said, revealed himself to be an undercover police officer and helped lead the charge to arrest the refugee from Syria.

Three blokes and a woman came running past and he was rugby tackled to the floor, one witness told The Sun.

The guy was screaming. The cops were shouting to get his phone. I guess because it holds important information.

They called for back-up. They were holding him down.

A forensic team wrapped his arms in plastic up to his biceps and his legs up to his thighs. They put plastic on his shoes then put him in overalls and plastic cuffs.

 Police release CCTV footage of alleged Parsons Green bombing suspect

As soon as I saw them wrapping him up, the witness added, I knew it was really serious.

And yet, on a quiet afternoon a day and a half later, the only visible sign of Saturday nights arrest and subsequent police search of Aladdins was the occasional visiting TV news crew.

The formica tables of the west London chicken and burger bar filled with the usual customers  boisterous schoolchildren, passing workers, long-term regulars  some still blissfully unaware of what had happened at the weekend.

The father of the singing three-year-old girl was amazed when The Independent told him the news.

I heard someone had been arrested in Hounslow, said Ryadh Houchala, 42, an Uber cab driver, But I wasnt expecting it to be from this place.

This is the best chicken shop in Hounslow, a family place, not for drunk people.

I have been coming here for 17 years, added Mr Houchala. All the staff seemed OK.

Shown a photograph of Farroukh, Mr Houchala seemed to think he recognised him.

Its strange, he said, Scary.

Suleman Sarwar, 43, one of the four blameless brothers who run Aladdins, was almost as surpised as Mr Houchala.

"This is all very overwhelming, he admitted, Not a thing you're equipped for or used to.

He had not seen the arrest himself, but was soon told about it by staff, who recounted seeing an apparently homeless man reveal himself to be an undercover police officer as their hitherto unremarkable colleague was arrested.

 Parsons Green attack: What we know so far

With a polite smile, Mr Sarwar fielded the questions that invariably follow a terror-related arrest.

Not even an inkling, he said, when asked if there had been any signs of anything suspicious in Farroukhs behaviour. Honest to God, no. Nothing.

Yes, Farroukh had prayed regularly  but so had everyone else, staff and customers alike, who used the restaurants upstairs prayer room.

He didnt look outwardly religious at all, said Mr Sarwar. He dressed like any other twenty-something: jeans, T-shirt, no distinct beard. Very, very, very normal.

Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Show all 23 1 /23 Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion A bucket with flames and wires coming out of it was photographed in the carriage after the explosion  apparently the source of the blast AFP Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion An explosion on a packed Tube train has injured a number of people in west London AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion The blast triggered a stampede as commuters panicked AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Click through for more pictures from the scene Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosioN Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion PA Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty

Farroukh had been working at Aladdins for about six months. He only ever worked in the kitchen and never served customers. The standard of the Syrian refugees English, said Mr Sarwar, allowed for little else.

His language wasnt perfect. It was hard to communicate with him.

He was very quiet. There wasnt much conversation to be had from him. About the only thing I remember him saying to me was that he had a sister in Canada.

And then came Saturday nights arrest, shortly after Aladdins closed for the night at 11.30pm, at the end of Farroukhs shift, which had started at about 6.30pm.

Police came to search the restaurant on Sunday night. Mr Sarwar said a team of eight plainclothes officers and three uniformed colleagues took away CCTV recordings and examined Farroukhs locker.

It was totally empty, said Mr Sarwar.

The restaurant manager confirmed that the police had asked for all documentation relating to Farroukhs employment, including photocopies of papers confirming he had permission to work in the UK.

Apart from that, though, nearly all the questions Mr Sarwar was asked related to how to get access to all areas of the restaurant.

They already seemed to have plenty of information [on Farroukh], said Mr Sarwar, More than I could give them.

"I hope that the police get to the bottom of this," he added.

 Parsons Green bombing: Arrest is 'very significant' says Rudd

But after an arrest that seemed so shocking to him, Mr Sarwar certainly wasnt going to jump to any conclusions.

Farroukh had yet to be charged with any offence, he cautioned, when asked to speculate about how the chicken shop worker might have turned jihadi.

We still dont know whether or not he was turned, said Mr Sarwar. Obviously the police have found something to say they should arrest him, but I simply dont know if he really has done something.

As the schoolkids jostled and chatted, as a father told his three-year-old daughter to eat her chips nicely, one by one, there was no denying it was hard to associate Aladdins with the location for anything like a counter-terrorism arrest.

You think you can trust people, said Mr Houchala, as his daughter finished her chips. And then something like this happens.
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Ninety-nine per cent of advanced dementia sufferers are not receiving specialist care they need, new research suggests.

A survey of people in the later stages of dementia shows that a lack of palliative care services in the community means GPs and emergency services are being forced to provide most of their end of life healthcare, rather than specialist services.

The study, conducted by the Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department at University College London, reveals that just one per cent of advanced dementia patients had contact with specialist services such as a geriatrician or an older persons psychiatrist.

The findings, based on a survey of 85 people with advanced dementia from six clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) across Greater London, show that nearly one in five (19 per cent) sufferers were seen by a paramedic in the month prior to their death, suggesting a reactive rather than planned response to patients needs.

Researchers also found that GPs were the main providers of medical care for dementia patients, with 96 per cent of people with advanced dementia seeing a GP in their last month of life.

Care homes, where the majority of people with dementia die, were found to be poorly served by secondary healthcare services, with GPs who visited homes not supported by specialist services, according to the findings.

While palliative care teams may have assisted with symptom management, less than a third of participants (28 per cent) were seen by a palliative care team  despite 34 per cent being referred  and when they were, this was predominantly in the month prior to their death.

Helen Findlay, who cared for her mother who died from dementia, said she was told her mother didnt need palliative care when she asked because she didnt have cancer.

Mums dementia was getting worse but when I asked about palliative care I was told that she wasnt at that stage, despite the fact my GP had told the family that she only had 12 months left to live, she said.

Nearer the end I asked about specialist care again and they said that she didnt need it as she didnt have cancer  thats how they viewed it. Sadly, I think there is a perception that dementia isnt a terminal illness and therefore doesnt require specialist care.

My mum was also suffering from kidney failure and this might have been picked up on earlier if she had been seen by a specialist.

At the end of the day its about treating people with respect and giving them the dignity they deserve when theyre dying. When a loved one has dementia, youre already grieving before theyve died.

Based on the findings, experts warned that  given that dementia is now the leading cause of death  healthcare services were not currently tailored to the complex needs and symptoms of people with advanced dementia, and have urged the Government to increase funding for palliative care services in the community.

Scott Sinclair, Marie Curies head of policy and public affairs in England, told The Independent: We know that, with the right support and resources in place, it is possible to deliver high-quality end of life care within the community.

This research demonstrates that there is an urgent need for the Government to increase the capacity of palliative care services in the community and this will require more funding in terms of both health and social care.

One third of people in the UK aged over 65 will die from some form of dementia and many are currently not getting the care that they need and deserve. With numbers only set to increase, we can only expect things to get worse unless drastic measures are taken.

Mr Sinclair added that the lack of funding was preventing dementia sufferers from having a good quality of life before they die, urging that this was not fair for patients or their families.

For many people with advanced dementia, care homes are essentially playing the role of hospices but without any of the specialist support services that are available in a hospice," he said.

Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests  but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty

This is not fair to the residents and their families, or the care home staff who are unable to meet the needs of their residents.

The Local Government Association, which represents local councils, has recently warned that adult social care is at a tipping point, with the sector facing an annual 2.3bn funding gap by 2020.

It comes after research earlier this year suggested that the number of people living with dementia in England and Wales is to rise to 1.2 million by 2040 as life expectancy increases

A Department of Health spokesperson told The Independent: We want England to be the best place in the world to live with dementia where every patient receives the highest quality care and support. Thats why we have set ambitious plans in our Challenge on Dementia 2020 to drive up standards by ensuring everyone receives end of life care that is compassionate and personalised.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Isis and other terrorist groups are winning an ongoing netwar against authorities trying to stop the spread of extremist material online, a new report has warned.

Research by the Policy Exchange think-tank found that almost three quarters of the public want large internet companies to do more to find and delete content that could radicalise people.

Another 65 per cent people thought firms were not doing enough to combat the phenomenon and while respondents were split over whether internet companies or the Government should take ultimate responsibility, 75 per cent supported the introduction of an independent regulator.

Three quarters of the 2,000 people surveyed wanted new laws to criminalise the persistent viewing of extremist material online, and 73 per cent thought the possession of propaganda should be illegal.

The Policy Exchange warned that such powers would need to be constrained to avoid undue infringement of civil liberties, but called for a new approach to combat the terror threat.

Its analysis found that jihadi content was accessed more frequently in the UK than anywhere else in Europe, with the country in fifth place globally behind Turkey, the US, Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

General David Petraeus, the former director of the CIA, said current situation was clearly unacceptable.

The retired general, who commanded Nato forces in Afghanistan, said the attempted bombing in Parsons Green underscored the threat generated by instructions and other materials available online.

 Theresa May: London terror attack shows Britain too tolerant of extremism

The fight against Isis, al-Qaeda, and the other elements of the global jihadist movement has become the defining struggle of the early 21st Century, General Petraeus said in a foreword to the report.

That struggle has increasingly been contested not just on the ground, but in a new domain of warfare, cyberspace.

He cautioned that while few doubt Isis physical caliphate in Syria and Iraq will be eradicated along with most of its militants, the group will continue to inspire atrocities around the world by targeting the most vulnerable sections of society with its poisonous ideology.

General Petraeus added: The events of the last decade-and-a-half attest to the durability and adaptability of the jihadist movement.

I have seen how the defeat of jihadist forces in one theatre does not equate to victory in the overall struggle  or, sadly, even to enduring success in that theatre.

General Petraeus said that like its predecessor al-Qaeda, Isis will continue to operate either as an insurgency, terrorist movement or ideological project that continues seeking to radicalise followers and inspire terror attacks around the world.

It is clear that that our counter-extremism efforts and other initiatives to combat extremism on line have, until now, been inadequate, he added.

I do not think we have yet developed all the big ideas needed to come to grips with the problem, much less the policies and methods to combat it.

The Policy Exchange report found that while Isis propaganda has declined on Twitter, Facebook and other mainstream platforms amid increasing cooperation with those companies, it continues to flourish elsewhere.

Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Show all 23 1 /23 Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion A bucket with flames and wires coming out of it was photographed in the carriage after the explosion  apparently the source of the blast AFP Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion An explosion on a packed Tube train has injured a number of people in west London AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion The blast triggered a stampede as commuters panicked AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Click through for more pictures from the scene Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosioN Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion PA Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Parsons Green explosion Reuters Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty Terror attack at Parson's Green  in pictures AFP/Getty

The terrorist group has been able to maintain a consistent virtual output of thousands of videos, radio bulletins, magazines and less formal messaging through encrypted apps like Telegram and its own network of websites.

To combat intensifying efforts to remove its content in the three years since the Islamic State was declared, Isis has developed tools like an automated email service, apps and Firefox plug-ins to ensure followers can access its key propaganda outlets.

While direct access has become more difficult, researchers and journalists are unwittingly making extremist material more findable by reporting on Isis tactics, the Policy Exchange warned.

Dr Martyn Frampton, the lead author of the report, said authorities were playing a fruitless game of whack-a-mole reducing individual pieces of content and needed to go further to disrupt dissemination networks.

The evidence suggests that we are not winning the war against online extremism and we need to consider options for change, he added.

If the internet companies wont do what their customers want and take more responsibility for removing this content, then government must take action through additional regulation and legislation.

In May 2016, Facebook, Microsoft, Twitter and YouTube signed up to an EU-sponsored code of conduct that pledged to establish improved ways to take down illegal hate speech and other extremist material.

But Isis swarmcast  an interconnected network that constantly reconfigures itself to resist disruption  has allowed it to continue distributing its propaganda on file sharing services, encrypted apps, websites and social media.

The Policy Exchange called for the Governments proposed Commission for Countering Extremism to be empowered to oversee the removal of extremist content, and for the possible creation for an independent online regulator that could financially penalise companies that fail to remove extremist content.

But analysts have warned that the role of the internet in radicalisation has been overplayed, with research showing that personal relationships and real-world networks play a defining role.

Isis has been able to release detailed instructions on carrying out terror attacks via its propaganda magazines

A recent UN report showed that Isis foreign fighters are likely to be young, disadvantaged economically and educationally, and from a marginalised background  all factors requiring Government intervention beyond counter-extremism.

The same research report found that among surveyed fighters, the internet played a far less significant role as an independent source of radicalisation than is generally assumed, and certainly a far less significant role than real life contact.

Authors found that would-be jihadis went online to confirm and strengthen ideas that were already taking root, adding: The internet then played a key role in reinforcing a decision that had in part been taken already.

Major-General Chip Chapman, the former head of counter-terrorism in the Ministry of Defence, said the internet made a convenient target for the Government.

They are picking on an unspecific part of what the total problem is and its not addressing the core issues, he told The Independent.

Radicalisation is not just an online process, its offline as well because its really to do with friendships and networks.

The internet is really just a place of congregation like schools, universities and prisons.

Major-General Chapman said cohesion and integration were historical contributors to radicalisation that remain unaddressed.

The core problem is that 70 per cent of people who have been arrested for terrorism in the year to June are either British or dual nationals, he added.

Thats the real elephant in the room that theyre not really looking at by picking on the internet.

He cautioned that social media was worsening confirmation bias and making it more difficult for young people to gain the intellectual resilience needed to question propaganda.

The debate comes amid warnings by the security officials that the threat of Isis-inspired terror attacks is increasing as it becomes more difficult for jihadis to travel to its waning territories.

Around 3,000 extremists are being monitored as potential threats, with a wider pool of 23,000 people who have previously come onto the radar of intelligence agencies and police.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

A police officer who arrested a 21-year-old on suspicion of bombing Parsons Green Tube station was purportedly working undercover and was "dressed as a homeless man".

Yahyah Farrough  who is thought to come from Syria  was arrested at a fried chicken shop where he worked in Hounslow, west London, on Saturday night.

Staff at the fast food restaurant said a man wearing plain clothes revealed himself to be an undercover police officer during the arrest, a manager at the restaurant told The Independent.

Some of the staff told me that an undercover policeman dressed as a homeless man was one of a group of officers who helped arrest him," Suleman Sarwar, one of four brothers that runs Aladdins chicken shop, said.

"I don't know if the undercover officer was posing as a beggar  all my staff told me was that he was dressed as a homeless man."

The Metropolitan Police, which is leading the investigation into the explosion, did not deny that one of the officers involved in the arrest was undercover.

Mr Farough was the second man to be questioned in connection with the attack on a District line train on Friday.

An 18-year-old was arrested on Saturday morning in Dover, where he was reportedly attempting to buy a ferry ticket to Calais.

Around 30 people were injured by the bomb in west London, which was contained in a white bucket. Witnesses described a "fireball" fly through the train carriage, which was packed with commuters and school children.

Mr Sarwar said the 21-year-old suspect didnt look outwardly religious at all".

He added: He dressed like any other twenty-something: jeans, T-shirt, no distinct beard. Very, very, very normal.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 12 November 2022 The City of London Pride Group take part in the parade during the Lord Mayor's Show PA UK news in pictures 11 November 2022 City workers attend a Remembrance Day ceremony at Lloyd's of London, in the City of London, to mark Armistice Day, the anniversary of the end of the First World War PA UK news in pictures 10 November 2022 A grey heron lands on the river Dodder in Dublin on a sunny autumn morning PA UK news in pictures 9 November 2022 Australia and Spain play during the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup group A match at the Copper Box Arena, London PA UK news in pictures 8 November 2022 A migrant attempting to communicate with journalists is pinned against a fence by members of staff, before being taken out of view, at the Manston immigration short-term holding facility, located at the former Defence Fire Training and Development Centre in Thanet, Kent PA UK news in pictures 7 November 2022 Handout photo issued by Just Stop Oil of a protester who has climbed a gantry on the M25 between junctions six and seven in Surrey, leading to the closure of the motorway PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2022 A grey seal with its pup, at the Donna Nook National Nature Reserve in north Lincolnshire, where they come every year in late October, November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes, the wildlife spectacle attracts visitors from across the UK PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 Florence Kasumba, Letitia Wright, Tenoch Huerta and Lupita Nyongo attend the European Premiere of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in London Getty UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA

The 43-year-old said Mr Farrough was "very quiet" and that his English was not good enough for him to engage in much conversation.

Mr Farrough and the 18-year-old, who has not yet been identified, are thought to have lived at different times with a British couple known for fostering refugees.

Penelope and Ronald Jones, aged 71 and 88 respectively, were made MBEs for services to children and families in 2009 and have fostered hundreds of children.

Their home in Sunbury-on-Thames remains cordoned off after a raid by armed police, who evacuated nearby homes as a precaution on Saturday.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

British arms companies have earned more than 6bn from their trade with Saudi Arabia during the ongoing war in Yemen, new research has found.

War Child UK claimed the true revenue from dealings with the Gulf state are almost double previous estimates, despite only around 30m going to the public through corporation tax receipts.

The charity accused private manufacturers including BAE Systems and Raytheon of profiteering from the deaths of innocent children by selling missiles and equipment to the Saudi-led coalition.

It stands accused of committing war crimes and killing thousands of civilians with its bombing campaign against Houthi rebels.

Rocco Blume, a conflict and humanitarian advisor at War Child, said Britain is not only selling arms to Saudi forces but maintaining them as well.

The estimated revenue from ongoing support pushed the estimated revenue far above the 3.6bn figure announced by the Campaign Against the Arms Trade last week.

We all want to see productive international trade, but this is damaging, Mr Blume told The Independent.

The revenue has to be seen in the context of all the other costs incurred in this trade, especially to our international reputation, particularly on human rights.

 Michael Fallon claims Saudi Arabia is only 'defending itself' when attacking Yemen

Mr Blume said there was a lack of transparency on the extent of British firms involvement amid a global weakening of protections for children in conflicts including Yemen, Syria and Iraq.

He also raised concern that the UK was becoming less fussy about international trading partners as Brexit approaches.

Recommended Michael Fallon outlines vision for increasing arms trade after Brexit

BAE Systems and Raytheon were among the exhibitors at an arms fair held in London last week, which was supported by Government ministers and senior military commanders.

Liam Fox, the International Trade Secretary, defended the ethical trade at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) event, telling delegates that Britains licensing system ensured exports are lawful and the UK does not violate international law.

The following day, the Sir Michael Fallon outlined his vision for the UK to take a bigger share of the international defence market after Brexit.

Mr Fallon said the UK secured defence orders totalling 5.9bn in 2016 and is already the worlds second-largest weapons exporter.

But War Child said there was a disparity between the economic benefit to the British public versus the profit for private firms inside the arms industry, which is estimated at almost 600m.

Ministers championed the arms trade at the DSEI arms fair in London (Lizzie Dearden)

It found that an estimated tax revenue of 45 pence per head was dwarfed by pay and bonuses, as well as the amount spent by the Government on aid to Yemen.

A spokesperson said: Weapons sales to Saudi Arabia generated just 13m in corporation tax in 2016, yet during 2017, the UK will spend 139m in humanitarian aid to Yemen.

This means the Treasury is spending over four times in aid what it is getting back in tax.

The Government has been forced to repeatedly defend the trade amid evidence of war crimes and civilian deaths in Yemen, where Saudi-led bombardment is worsening a hunger crisis and cholera epidemic.

Evidence found at the scene of massacres suggests some were carried out by British-made weapons, including Raytheons laser-guided Paveway IV smart bomb, which is manufactured in Fife.

In two years of civil war in Yemen, an estimated 1,300 children have been killed and 2,000 more injured, with 212 schools attacked and medical facilities destroyed and millions at risk of famine and cholera.

Yasser, 12, told War Child his mother, father and three siblings were killed in an air strike in northern Yemen.

The first rocket fell on the hospital gate, he said. The sound was terrifying. I saw the bodies of people. Even my father was killed. I was afraid so I ran away to the mountains.

The situation in Yemen Show all 14 1 /14 The situation in Yemen The situation in Yemen Houthi supporters trample on a US flag during a gathering mobilizing more fighters into several Yemeni battlefronts, in Sana'a, Yemen EPA The situation in Yemen People carry the coffins of men, who were killed in the recent Saudi-led airstrikes during their funeral, in the Old City of Sanaa, Yemen AP The situation in Yemen Pro-government fighters give food to Yemeni children on the road leading to the southwestern port city of Mokha. Yemeni rebels are putting up fierce resistance in a key Red Sea port city where they are encircled by pro-government force Getty Images The situation in Yemen A Yemeni stands in front of a graffiti protesting US military operations in war-affected Yemen, in Sana'a, Yemen. According to reports, US Special Forces troops allegedly disembarked from US helicopters in the Yemeni town of Yakla and attacked several houses belonging to members of the terrorist group Al-Qaeda, killing three high-ranking Al-Qaeda members and nine civilians, six women and three children. One American serviceman has been killed and three injured in the attack EPA The situation in Yemen US Special Forces troops allegedly disembarked from US helicopters in the Yemeni town of Yakla and attacked several houses belonging to members of the terrorist group Al-Qaeda, killing three high-ranking Al-Qaeda members and nine civilians, six women and three children. One American serviceman has been killed and three injured in the attack EPA The situation in Yemen A Yemeni female fighter supporting the Shiite Huthi rebels, and carrying weapons used for ceremonial purposes, takes part in an anti-Saudi rally in the capital Sanaa Getty Images The situation in Yemen Yemeni female fighters supporting the Shiite Huthi rebels, and carrying weapons used for ceremonial purposes, take part in an anti-Saudi rally in the capital Sanaa Getty Images The situation in Yemen A boy shouts slogans next to pro-Houthi fighters, who have been injured during recent fighting, during a rally held to honour those injured or maimed while fighting in Houthi ranks in Sanaa, Yemen Reuters The situation in Yemen Balls of fire and smoke rise from a Houthi-held military camp following alleged Saudi-led airstrikes, in Sana'a, Yemen EPA The situation in Yemen Yemenis search under the rubble of damaged houses following reported Saudi-led coalition air strikes on the outskirts of the Yemeni capital Sanaa Getty Images The situation in Yemen A Yemeni boy looks on as Yemenis search under the rubble of damaged houses following reported Saudi-led coalition air strikes on the outskirts of the Yemeni capital Sanaa Getty The situation in Yemen A Yemeni boy sits amidst the rubble of damaged houses following reported Saudi-led coalition air strikes on the outskirts of the Yemeni capital Sanaa AFP/Getty The situation in Yemen Marine One with US President Donald Trump flies with a decoy and support helicopters to Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware, for the dignified transfer of Navy Seal Chief Petty Officer William 'Ryan' Owens who was killed in Yemen Getty Images The situation in Yemen US President Donald Trump aboard the Marine One to greet the remains of a US military commando killed during a raid on the al Qaeda militant group in southern Yemen on Sunday, at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, US Reuters

A 10-year-old boy called Sameer told how he left for school near Sanaa before his brother and returned home to find their house destroyed, and everyone inside dead.

Saudi Arabia was blacklisted by the United Nations for committing grave violations against children last year but later removed from the list after protests from the countrys government.

MPs and humanitarian organisations have called on the Government to end arms sales to Riyadh, but it won a legal challenge mounted by the Campaign Against the Arms Trade in July.

The High Court ruled that the trade did not break the law because there was no evidence of the Saudi-led coalition deliberately targeting civilians, while it investigates alleged civilian casualties.

Lord Justice Burnett told the Court that it had not been established that there was a clear risk that the items might be used in the commission of a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

The Government has publicly restated its support for Saudi Arabias role in Yemen, saying it is supporting President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi against Houthi rebels and forces loyal to the former president.

But Rob Williams, the CEO of War Child UK, said it was morally repugnant that the UK government is allowing companies to make killer profits from the deaths of innocent children.

Thousands of children have died and millions more are at risk, he added.

The British Government is shamefully complicit in their suffering and justifies it with promises of economic prosperity, which this report embarrassingly discredits.

A spokesperson for the Department for International Trade said: The UK Government takes its defence export responsibilities very seriously and operates one of the most robust export control regimes in the world.

We rigorously examine every application on a case-by-case basis against the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria.
Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Boris Johnsons weekend intervention in Brexit negotiations has been received with open-mouthed disbelief across continental European newspapers.

Most outlets suggested the Foreign Secretarys 4,000-word Daily Telegraph article spelling out his own Brexit plan would weaken Theresa Mays hand with EU negotiators still further  just days ahead of her crunch speech in Florence.

The EU will follow the civil war within the Tories with horror, analysis from Germanys pro-business Handelsblatt newspaper summarised.

For nothing makes negotiations more difficult than an unpredictable partner who does not know what he wants.

French daily newspaper Le Monde described the Foreign Secretarys intervention as having a nationalist tone and warned that it risks reviving the war on Europe within the Tories and weakening the already difficult position of the Prime Minister, not only on the domestic level, but in the negotiations with the EU-27.

The issue of Mr Johnsons false claim that 350 million would be available for UK public spending once Britain had left the bloc was treated with rather less benefit of the doubt in the continental press than in British outlets.

While the BBC has been under fire on social media for claiming that Mr Johnsons false claim that the UK sends 350 million to the EU every week is merely disputed, Spanish newspaper El Pais simply said the minister had resurrected a proven lie from the referendum campaign.

The daily papers analysis adds that the Prime Ministers failure to sack the Foreign Secretary for such an overt leadership bid adds further evidence of her weakness just when the country needs someone strong.

Theresa May has full confidence in the Foreign Secretary, Downing Street said (Chris J Ratcliffe/AFP)

Downing Street on Monday flat-out refused to acknowledge that Mr Johnson had deviated from the Government line on Brexit, with a spokesperson saying the PM had full confidence in the minister. The spokesperson, however, conceded that Mr Johnson's article published online on Friday night had not been cleared by Number 10.

Mr Johnson has been given a back-seat role in Brexit negotiations despite his post as Foreign Secretary, with day-to-day negotiations delegated to Davis Davis, the Brexit Secretary.

Brexit: the deciders Show all 8 1 /8 Brexit: the deciders Brexit: the deciders European Union's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier Getty Brexit: the deciders French President Emmanuel Macron Getty Brexit: the deciders German Chancellor Angela Merkel Reuters Brexit: the deciders Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker EPA Brexit: the deciders The European Parliament's chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt Getty Brexit: the deciders Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May Getty Images Brexit: the deciders Britain's Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond PA Brexit: the deciders After the first and second appointed Brexit secretaries resigned (David Davis and Dominic Raab respectively), Stephen Barclay is currently heading up the position PA

Liam Fox, the International Trade Secretary, has been tasked with negotiating trade deals outside the EU  leaving the Foreign Secretary with the other, more limited, aspects of foreign policy.

Ms May will travel to Florence on Friday to give a speech on the future of Brexit negotiations. The address is expected to be her biggest intervention in talks since her Lancaster House speech at the start of the year, when she ruled out the UK remaining a member of the single market.
Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

The British public has given overwhelming backing to major parts of Jeremy Corbyns policy agenda, new polling has revealed.

The exclusive survey for The Independent shows the Labour leaders plan to cap the excessive pay of fat cat executives is among the most popular proposals  winning backing from 69 per cent of people.

But the study by BMG Research also indicates Labour still has work to do, with a larger proportion of people yet to believe the party is a government in waiting.

Many voters also do not think Mr Corbyns relative success at the ballot box has earned him the right to change Labours internal rules on leadership contests and candidate selection.

It comes just days before Mr Corbyn is to attend his third party conference as leader but in his strongest position yet, having performed better than expected at the election in June and ended talk of a leadership challenge.

Todays poll tested key ideas in the partys manifesto or mooted by Labour figures, including a ratio cap on executive pay, scrapping tuition fees, nationalising rail and utility companies and imposing a financial transaction tax.

Asked whether people would back a pay ratio for top executives, so pay is capped relative to the pay received by the lowest-paid worker in the company, 38 per cent said they strongly backed the plan and 31 per cent supported it somewhat.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 12 November 2022 The City of London Pride Group take part in the parade during the Lord Mayor's Show PA UK news in pictures 11 November 2022 City workers attend a Remembrance Day ceremony at Lloyd's of London, in the City of London, to mark Armistice Day, the anniversary of the end of the First World War PA UK news in pictures 10 November 2022 A grey heron lands on the river Dodder in Dublin on a sunny autumn morning PA UK news in pictures 9 November 2022 Australia and Spain play during the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup group A match at the Copper Box Arena, London PA UK news in pictures 8 November 2022 A migrant attempting to communicate with journalists is pinned against a fence by members of staff, before being taken out of view, at the Manston immigration short-term holding facility, located at the former Defence Fire Training and Development Centre in Thanet, Kent PA UK news in pictures 7 November 2022 Handout photo issued by Just Stop Oil of a protester who has climbed a gantry on the M25 between junctions six and seven in Surrey, leading to the closure of the motorway PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2022 A grey seal with its pup, at the Donna Nook National Nature Reserve in north Lincolnshire, where they come every year in late October, November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes, the wildlife spectacle attracts visitors from across the UK PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 Florence Kasumba, Letitia Wright, Tenoch Huerta and Lupita Nyongo attend the European Premiere of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in London Getty UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA

It is one of several areas where a strong Labour position has helped push the Government into making concessions, with Ms May announcing measures to tackle excessive corporate pay earlier this year  albeit ones that fell short of what had initially been mooted.

Plans to force companies to put a worker on boards giving them a greater say on executive pay rewards were ditched by the Prime Minister in the face of opposition from some cabinet ministers.

Mr Corbyns call to scrap tuition fees altogether is also backed to some degree by a majority, 58 per cent. Sensing shifting public mood on the issue, ministers including Chancellor Philip Hammond have said the current system of fees needs reviewing.

Nationalising the railways also received majority support, with 55 per cent of the public saying they backed it either strongly or somewhat, while nationalising utilities such as water and electricity won the approval of 57 per cent in the weighted poll.

There was also broad support for a Robin Hood tax, of around 0.05 per cent on financial transactions including those involving stocks, bonds, foreign currency and derivatives  an idea Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has previously signalled support for  which was backed to varying degrees by 45 per cent in the poll.

But the popularity of Labours manifesto commitments will be tempered by an apparent nervousness about the party taking up the reins of power.

Asked do you see the Labour Party as a government in waiting, 44 per cent of people said no, while 33 per cent of people said they did and 24 per cent said they did not know.

 Jeremy Corbyn hands out free food at food bank

There were also questions over what Mr Corbyns success at the ballot box, which saw him defy predictions to increase Labours number of Commons seats, earned him the right to do.

Some 46 per cent said the result earned him the right to fight the next election, compared with 31 per cent who said it had not and 23 per cent who did not know.

There was an almost even split on whether the outcome earned him the right to personally set his partys policy agenda, with 35 per cent saying it did, 37 per cent saying it did not and 29 per cent saying they did not know.

But when it came to whether Mr Corbyn had earned the right to start changing the internal workings of his party, support drifted.

Asked whether the election meant he should be able to change leadership contest rules  set to be a key battleground for rival wings at this years conference  only 24 per cent said it did, whereas 44 per cent said it did not and 32 per cent did not know.

On changing the way MP candidates are selected, just 23 per cent thought Mr Corbyns election result earned him the right to alter rules, 45 per cent said it did not and 32 per cent said they did not know.

The leadership is expected to propose reform of party rules at a meeting of Labours ruling National Executive Committee on Tuesday, though insiders have said not to expect anything dramatic.

There are also due to be a series of pitched battles on the conference floor in Brighton over changes to the leadership contest format and on who sits on the NEC.

1,447 individuals were surveyed 12-15 September. Results are weighted to reflect the profile of GB adults
Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

The founder of the powerful Corbyn-backing Momentum group has said it his objective to push for changes to Labours ruling executive ahead of a major battle over the issue at this months party conference.

Speaking exclusively to The Independent, Jon Lansman said Labours National Executive Committee needed more grassroots member representation, giving them greater sway over determining policy, leadership contests and candidate selection.

A behind-the-scenes row over NEC control has already flared ahead of Septembers gathering after The Independent revealed a plan by the right wing of the party to rein in Jeremy Corbyns power by drafting extra members likely to be hostile to his leadership.

But the activist leaders intervention now sets the stage for a major struggle over the heart of the party in Brighton, where Momentum will once again hold its own festival on the doorstep of Labours official conference.

Highlighting the glaring inadequacies in the way the party is run, Mr Lansman said: Out of 35 members, half a million members have just six representatives [on the NEC]. Its absurd.

I would like to see constituencies having more or less the same number of representatives as the unions and thats my objective.

Its not about precise numbers; its about fair representation from members in the decision-making process of the party.

Recommended Former Corbyn critics within Labour to address Momentum event

The veteran left-winger, who was instrumental in the setting up of Momentum  the grassroots campaign group that grew out of Mr Corbyns leadership of Labour  also hinted he would oppose a compromise deal on changing the rules for a future leadership contest.

Under a proposed rule-book change  dubbed the McDonnell amendment  a future contender in a Labour leadership contest would need 5 per cent of MPs to nominate then, rather than the 15 per cent that currently exists. The Independent revealed earlier this month that left-wingers are prepared to compromise at 10 per cent.

Asked what the next steps would be for Momentum, Mr Lansman replied: Looking at how the party is operated there is a glaring deficiency  given our experience of the value of members and what members can do if you mobilise numbers of them, because they are ordinary people who know their communities.

It is vital that they are fully engaged in the process of the party, in determining policy, in picking candidates, in electing leaders  all of the decision-making in the party. Its important they feel ownership of the party.

Explaining his mission to involve members more in the party, he cited the decision by Tony Blairs government to invade Iraq in 2003. The way the Labour Party has been structured in recent years, in the last couple of decades, its been an incredibly centralised party in which there has been no room for debate or dissent and that has led to some bad decisions being made, he said.

For example, Iraq  Chilcot said one of the reasons for it was the lack of challenge. There wasnt even debate in the Cabinet, let alone in the party.

The same for austerity, he continued. At the last national party forum before the 2015 election we put a motion calling simply for a Budget that invests in jobs and ends the failing policies of austerity. Now Ed Balls, [then Shadow Chancellor], knew perfectly well austerity was failing  he said it would in his Bloomberg speech. But he couldnt break out of that, he thought there wasnt the political space to break out of that.

Jeremy Corbyn created that political space by ensuring there was debate in that leadership election. As a result of that you struggle to find a single person in the party who now supports austerity  that has shifted the ground of British politics.

But when pressed on a report in The Independent that the Labour leadership is prepared to compromise on a crucial rule-book change for future leadership contests, Mr Lansman appeared uninterested in a deal.

At the moment theres only one proposal on the table, which is 5 per cent, said Mr Lansman. I much prefer 5 per cent to 15 per cent. I want to see the 5 per cent.

Mr Lansman, who has known the Labour leader since the 1970s, also said he now believed Mr Corbyn will make it to Downing Street. I was involved, first of all in persuading him to stand in the nomination stage in the first leadership campaign and in every stage Jeremy has risen to the next occasion. he said.

Its been a learning process, but he has come most of the way to being prepared to go into Downing Street. OK, he hasnt got ministerial experience  neither did Cameron or Blair  but I have every confidence that Jeremy can do it.

Im confident we can win [the next election] he added. We are preparing to win thats why were are training people in persuasive canvassing for example which we did during the course of the election but we want to do in all of the new marginals.

But he attributed Labours failure to win power in June to starting at a very low level when Theresa May called the snap election, with Labour then languishing in the polls and the Conservatives experiencing record highs.

Unfortunately starting at a low level was the penalty we paid for two years of more internal strife than we should have had  and I do not claim any responsibility for that, he added.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 10 November 2022 A grey heron lands on the river Dodder in Dublin on a sunny autumn morning PA UK news in pictures 9 November 2022 Australia and Spain play during the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup group A match at the Copper Box Arena, London PA UK news in pictures 8 November 2022 A migrant attempting to communicate with journalists is pinned against a fence by members of staff, before being taken out of view, at the Manston immigration short-term holding facility, located at the former Defence Fire Training and Development Centre in Thanet, Kent PA UK news in pictures 7 November 2022 Handout photo issued by Just Stop Oil of a protester who has climbed a gantry on the M25 between junctions six and seven in Surrey, leading to the closure of the motorway PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2022 A grey seal with its pup, at the Donna Nook National Nature Reserve in north Lincolnshire, where they come every year in late October, November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes, the wildlife spectacle attracts visitors from across the UK PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 Florence Kasumba, Letitia Wright, Tenoch Huerta and Lupita Nyongo attend the European Premiere of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in London Getty UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA

Pressed on whether he believed Labour was pursuing the right Brexit strategy, Mr Lansman  after a five-second pause  said he had his own opinion.

I think that where we are is that Tories have got us in this position, he said. Labour wasnt at the time in favour of a referendum. Cameron pushed a referendum thinking hed win and he lost it. May was on the side of remaining, then on the side of hard Brexit, and now shes on the side of softish Brexit.

Theyve got the responsibility as the Government to negotiate a deal with the EU. Were in Opposition and our job is to press them on the important things and ensure that anything come back which is unacceptable  which doesnt deliver a future which gives people the prospect of growth, investment and secure jobs and rising incomes  is rejected.
Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

The Labour Party has barred Saudi Arabia and Sudan from attending its party conference in Brighton.

In response, the League of Arab States wrote to Labour MPs and peers to tell them a reception and dinner hosted by Arab ambassadors would be cancelled.

Unfortunately, the council of Arab Ambassadors has taken the decision to cancel its annual reception and buffet dinner, the letter read.

It added: Our council has decided to refrain from attending the Labour party conference this year due to rejection of both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Sudans application to attend the conference."

 Johnson: We do not think Saudi have 'crossed threshold' of humanitarian laws, despite bombing Yemen

Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, has called for the Government to stop selling arms to Saudi Arabia, arguing they are being used in Yemen's civil war.

"We are selling arms to Saudi Arabia and at the same time we are sending aid in, we should not be doing both," he told the BBC's World at One programme.

Mr Corbyn went on to say it was important to ensure there is "a political process to bring about a ceasefire" in Yemen.

10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Show all 10 1 /10 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In October 2014, three lawyers, Dr Abdulrahman al-Subaihi, Bander al-Nogaithan and Abdulrahman al-Rumaih , were sentenced to up to eight years in prison for using Twitter to criticize the Ministry of Justice. AFP/Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In March 2015, Yemens Sunni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi was forced into exile after a Shia-led insurgency. A Saudi Arabia-led coalition has responded with air strikes in order to reinstate Mr Hadi. It has since been accused of committing war crimes in the country. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Women who supported the Women2Drive campaign, launched in 2011 to challenge the ban on women driving vehicles, faced harassment and intimidation by the authorities. The government warned that women drivers would face arrest. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Members of the Kingdoms Shia minority, most of whom live in the oil-rich Eastern Province, continue to face discrimination that limits their access to government services and employment. Activists have received death sentences or long prison terms for their alleged participation in protests in 2011 and 2012. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses All public gatherings are prohibited under an order issued by the Interior Ministry in 2011. Those defy the ban face arrest, prosecution and imprisonment on charges such as inciting people against the authorities. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In March 2014, the Interior Ministry stated that authorities had deported over 370,000 foreign migrants and that 18,000 others were in detention. Thousands of workers were returned to Somalia and other states where they were at risk of human rights abuses, with large numbers also returned to Yemen, in order to open more jobs to Saudi Arabians. Many migrants reported that prior to their deportation they had been packed into overcrowded makeshift detention facilities where they received little food and water and were abused by guards. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses The Saudi Arabian authorities continue to deny access to independent human rights organisations like Amnesty International, and they have been known to take punitive action, including through the courts, against activists and family members of victims who contact Amnesty. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Raif Badawi was sentenced to 1000 lashes and 10 years in prison for using his liberal blog to criticise Saudi Arabias clerics. He has already received 50 lashes, which have reportedly left him in poor health. Carsten Koall/Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Dawood al-Marhoon was arrested aged 17 for participating in an anti-government protest. After refusing to spy on his fellow protestors, he was tortured and forced to sign a blank document that would later contain his confession. At Dawoods trial, the prosecution requested death by crucifixion while refusing him a lawyer. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Ali Mohammed al-Nimr was arrested in 2012 aged either 16 or 17 for participating in protests during the Arab spring. His sentence includes beheading and crucifixion. The international community has spoken out against the punishment and has called on Saudi Arabia to stop. He is the nephew of a prominent government dissident. Getty

A Saudi-led coalition has waged a devastating air campaign in Yemen since 2015 to support the government in its war against Houthi rebels.

The fighting has killed more than 10,000 people and fomented a cholera epidemic, and the UN has called Yemen the world's greatest humanitarian disaster.

A spokesperson for the party told HuffPost: Following evidence of war crimes committed by Saudi Arabia in its bombing campaign in Yemen and other large scale human rights abuses, the NEC agreed that the embassys application to attend the Labour Party conference would not be accepted.

Labour's annual conference begins next Sunday.
Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Theresa May has delivered an Im in charge rebuke to Boris Johnson after his open challenge to her Brexit policy, insisting her government is driven from the front.

The Prime Minister denied she had lost control of her Cabinet, claiming it was agreed on the same destination for leaving the EU  despite the clear split with her Foreign Secretary.

Ms May also slapped down his call for an extra 350m a week for the NHS after Brexit, saying: That will be a decision that will be taken at the time.

Asked, en route to trade talks in Canada with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, if she feared Mr Johnson was poised to resign to fight for a harder Brexit, the Prime Minister swerved the question.

We are all agreed as a Government about the importance of ensuring that we get the right deal for Brexit, she told journalists. We are optimistic about what we can be achieving.

Asked if, after Mr Johnsons challenge, she was truly in charge, Ms May replied: This Government is driven from the front and we are all going to the same destination.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 11 November 2022 City workers attend a Remembrance Day ceremony at Lloyd's of London, in the City of London, to mark Armistice Day, the anniversary of the end of the First World War PA UK news in pictures 10 November 2022 A grey heron lands on the river Dodder in Dublin on a sunny autumn morning PA UK news in pictures 9 November 2022 Australia and Spain play during the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup group A match at the Copper Box Arena, London PA UK news in pictures 8 November 2022 A migrant attempting to communicate with journalists is pinned against a fence by members of staff, before being taken out of view, at the Manston immigration short-term holding facility, located at the former Defence Fire Training and Development Centre in Thanet, Kent PA UK news in pictures 7 November 2022 Handout photo issued by Just Stop Oil of a protester who has climbed a gantry on the M25 between junctions six and seven in Surrey, leading to the closure of the motorway PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2022 A grey seal with its pup, at the Donna Nook National Nature Reserve in north Lincolnshire, where they come every year in late October, November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes, the wildlife spectacle attracts visitors from across the UK PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 Florence Kasumba, Letitia Wright, Tenoch Huerta and Lupita Nyongo attend the European Premiere of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in London Getty UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA

The Prime Minister was forced to reassert her battered authority after Mr Johnson published his personal 4,200-word vision for Brexit  seen by many as a leadership bid.

His stance that Britain should not pay into EU coffers during a transition phase came just days before Ms May is expected to agree to such payments, to try to kick-start the stalled exit talks.

The Foreign Secretary appears to sniff betrayal and resents being kept out of the loop as other Cabinet heavyweights seek to steer the Prime Minister towards concessions.

 Boris blasted over Brexit blueprint

Mr Johnson spoke to journalists at the UN general assembly in New York, on Monday and fielded questions about his Brexit article and his future role in Government.

"I am trying to say once you take back control there are opportunities, he told reporters.

"We do not want to be paying extortionate sums for access to the single market.

It is pretty important that it should not be too long and business should have a clear sense about where we are going and what it is like at the end of it.

Asked if he would resign, the Home Secretary said: I think you may be barking up the wrong tree.

On the transition period I can see some vital importance of having some clarity and certainty since what all of us want is that it should not be too long.

"Let us not try and find rows where there are really not rows.

People want to know where we are going. It is good to have a bit of an opening drum roll about what this country can do.

He added: When the burden of office is lifted from my shoulders I will of course look back with great pride on my time doing all sorts of things.

Speaking on the plane to Ottawa, Ms May also:

* Tried to dismiss the threat posed by Mr Johnsons revolt by saying Boris is Boris

* Acknowledged that ongoing payments after departure in 2019 were part of the negotiations  and did not deny rumours of 10bn a year for three years

* Ducked a question asking if she would order Cabinet ministers not to set out personal manifestos.

* Refused to back Mr Johnson in his spat with the UK Statistics Authority over his claim that Britain will reclaim 350m a week  saying only that the sum varied year on year.

* Played down suggestions of seeking a Brexit breakthrough in one-to-one talks with EU leaders when she goes to the United Nations in New York  admitting the European Commission was in charge of the negotiating process.

 Amber Rudd says she doesn't want Boris backseat driving Brexit

On the suggestion that Britain will agree to hand over 10bn a year for market access up to 2022, Ms May said Lots of figures have been thrown round, lots of figures have been stated over the last few months

What we are doing is sitting down with the European Union negotiating this.

However, year on year on year, we will not be sending huge sums of money into the European Union, she insisted.

Asked if the NHS would be top of the list for any funds released by Brexit, the Prime Minister replied: We will have to decide as a Government how to spend that money.

After Canada and the UN General Assembly, Ms May is expected to open the door to continuing payments into the EU, after 2019, when she delivers her crucial Brexit speech in Florence on Friday,

Some Conservatives speculate that could be the trigger for Mr Johnson to walk out and mount a leadership bid  while other Tories are angry he has not been sacked already.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

A man who was accused of beheading a woman and cannibalising her corpse has died in hospital after being shot by police in South Africa.

Aphiwe Mapekula, 23, was shot in the arm, leg and stomach outside his home in Mount Frere after officers arrived to find him eating the corpse of a woman.

It is the latest incident involving cannibalism in the Eastern Cape, after four men were charged with raping, killing and "consuming" parts of a woman near Durban last month.

Police say they arrived at the scene in Mount Frere last week to find Mapekula eating the flesh of Thembisa Masumpa, 35, a woman who was known to him and who he allegedly beheaded after a family argument.

Officers told local newspaper reporters the suspect ignored several warning shots designed to stop him, before charging at the police with a knife after they opened fire.

He was taken to taken hospital, where he is also alleged to have attacked a female medic minutes after being admitted, and died three days later on 12 September.

His mother, who first raised the alarm when she saw her son attacking Ms Masumpa as she tried to leave their home, told the Daily Dispatch: I never raised a son like this one. I never imagined this.

Neighbours say Ms Masumpa worked at the home doing odd jobs and was washing in the backyard when she was attacked by Mapekula.

Local police spokeswoman Captain Edith Mjoko said He killed her with a knife by cutting her throat.

When the mother of the suspect saw what was happening she rushed and called the police to the scene.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

When they arrived the suspect was busy eating the flesh of the deceased.

Police ordered him to stop and to hand himself over. He went berserk and stormed at them with the knife.

Several warning shots were fired to deter him but in vain.

Local mayor Bulelwa Mabengu said he believed "drug and substance abuse" was involved. Neibours described Mapekula as an introvert who dropped out of university after struggling with drug addiction.

A spokesman for the local health department, Sizwe Kupelo, told HeraldLive: He was admitted on Saturday after he was transferred from Madzikane KaZulu Hospital in KwaBhaca with gunshot wounds and needed emergency surgery. He unfortunately died in the early hours of this morning at about 4.35am.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

An Irish citizen held for four years in Egypt and threatened with the death penalty has been acquitted of all charges.

Ibrahim Halawa, from Dublin, was 17 when he was arrested during a protest in Cairo in 2013.

He was detained by the Egyptian army during a demonstration staged by supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood after their elected leader, Mohamed Morsi, was ousted from power in a military coup.

Mr Halawa is the son of a senior member of the Muslim Brotherhood, an Islamist group that swept to power in elections after the 2011 uprising, but was later outlawed as a terrorist organisation.

Recommended Irish student facing death penalty writes heartbreaking letter home

He was accused along with 500 others, including his three sisters, of murders, bombing, possession of firearms and explosives, arson, violence against police and desecration of the Al Fatah mosque in Cairo's central Ramses Square.

Mr Halawa's sisters were released three months after their arrest and allowed to return home to Dublin, but he remained in the Wadi Natrun jail, where he says he was kept in solitary confinement, often without light or a toilet.

His family said he was beaten and refused treatment for a gunshot wound he sustained shortly before his arrest.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

Mr Halawa was cleared of all charges on Monday  one of 52 who were acquitted.

A further 43 defendants were sentenced to life imprisonment  25 years under Egyptian law  while 399 defendants were sentenced to between five and 15 years.

Mr Halawa, now aged 21, was on a family holiday at the time in his parents' homeland.

He is unlikely to be released immediately due to delays in the Egyptian judicial and prison system.

Recommended Amnesty calls for investigation into civilian deaths in Mosul

Maya Foa, director of human rights group Reprieve, told The Independent: "Ibrahim has been repeatedly tortured throughout his detention; hes reported being beaten with metal chains, stamped in the back, threatened with execution, and denied medical treatment.

Todays ruling should be welcomed, but lets be clear  this trial made a mockery of justice. Protesters should never have been rounded up and threatened with the death penalty, and the trial should not have dragged on for as long as it did. The proceedings in this case and other mass trials were always more about crushing dissent than seeing justice done."

Amnesty International, which called the mass trial grossly unfair, said all 442 other defendants in the case should be retried.

The group said there was no evidence that Mr Halawa was involved in the violence, adding that he was detained solely for peacefully exercising his rights to freedom of expression and assembly.

Nosayba (left) and Somaia Halawa, sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, on Grafton Street in Dublin's city centre, where family members and supporters held an awareness day (PA)

He is a prisoner of conscience who should never have been detained in the first place, said Najia Bounaim, North Africa research director at Amnesty.

This trial has been a cruel farce from start to finish. From relying on questionable testimonies to dismissing key evidence and depriving the defendants of the proper means of defending themselves, these proceedings expose the deep flaws in Egypts notorious criminal justice system.

Amnesty said there was evidence to support the case against just two of the defendants, despite hundreds standing trial.

Lawyers told the charity the trial defendants were held behind a glass screen preventing them from hearing the proceedings or being able to participate.

Ireland's Taoiseach Leo Varadkar welcomed the news of Mr Halawa's acquittal. The Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney, said: "Ibrahim Halawa's name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay."

Nosayba Halawa said her brother would be very happy and delighted with the outcome.

We couldn't believe [the news] after all the suffering. It is coming to an end, she said.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Google is celebrating the life and legacy of Amalia Hernandez with a colourful nod to her passion for dance.

Hernandez, who would be 100 years old, is remembered as an ambassador for Mexican culture, and for having played an integral role helping to share her countrys culture with the world.

Hernandez, a dancer and choreographer, was born in 1917, and danced for most of her life. She is perhaps best known for having developed the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, which was used to bring Mexican dancing and music to the world.

That ballet still performs to this day, and has reached more than 22 million people since its creation in 1952. There were just eight performers when the troop was created then, but has grown considerably since then. That ballet didnt end up on television until 1954, and was able to successfully translate that performance into a weekly broadcast.

Those successes allowed Hernandez and her team of dancers to organise more ambitious trips, including a tour of North America and, alter, the honor of representing Mexico in the Pan American Games in 1959.

Hernandez died in 2002, while working with her daughters and a grandson.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

In addition to the ballet, he was also the founder of the Folkloric Ballet School in Mexico City.

Hernandez was careful throughout her career to focus her interests on Mesoamerican cultures and dance styles, and endeavored in her life to highlight those indigenous cultures where possible. Even so, she worked hard to portray the diverse cultures that make up the indigenous areas of Mexico.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Cincinnati Zoo has got its first new gorilla since it had to kill Harambe last year.

The Ohio zoo has been the centre of criticism and controversy for more than a year, since it shot and killed Harambe. It said that it had to do so to protect the life of the child, but a range of people have disagreed.

Now it has its first replacement gorilla since that contentious day in May 2016.

The most controversial animal killings Show all 6 1 /6 The most controversial animal killings The most controversial animal killings Cincinnati Zoo worker shots and kills Harambe, the 17-year-old gorilla Harambe, a 17-year-old gorilla was shot and killed by a Cincinnati Zoo worker after a three-year-old boy climbed into a gorilla enclosure and was grabbed and dragged by Harambe. The incident was recorded on video and received broad international coverage and commentary, including controversy over the choice to kill Harambe. A number of primatologists and conservationists wrote later that the zoo had no other choice under the circumstances, and that it highlighted the danger of zoo animals in close proximity to humans and the need for better standards of care Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden The most controversial animal killings Walt Palmer (left), from Minnesota, who killed Cecil, the Zimbabwean lion (pictured here with another lion shot in Africa) Walter James Palmer has been named by Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force as the shooter of Cecil, a 13-year-old prized lion. He is now wanted by Zimbabwe officials on poaching charges. The lion was protected and the subject of a decade long study by the Wildlife Unit of Oxford University in the UK. He was outfitted with a GPS collar and was killed in Hwange National Park. The Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Authority and the Safari Operators Association said that two men were charged with poaching in connection to Mr Palmer The most controversial animal killings Kendall Jones hunting images Kendall Jones, a 19-year-old Texas Tech university student, has provoked worldwide fury after posting pictures of herself smiling next to animals she hunted, including a lion, rhinoceros, antelope, leopard, elephant, zebra and hippopotamus The most controversial animal killings Rebecca Francis hunting images Rebecca Francis, a huntress who has killed dozens of wild animals has been sent death wishes by furious social media users after a picture showing her lying down next to a dead giraffe was circulated. Rebecca Francis has a website and Facebook page dedicated to the animals she has killed in hunts across Africa and America. Francis, a prolific hunter who has also co-hosted the television show Eye of the Hunter, regularly posts pictures of herself posing next to dead bears, giraffes, buffaloes and zebras, among other animals. She uses a bow and arrow to kill her prey The most controversial animal killings The slaughter of Marius, an 18-month-old healthy giraffe in Copenhagen Zoo Copenhagen Zoo made the controversial decision to euthanise a healthy giraffe named Marius, which was later dissected and fed to lions as visitors watched. The slaughter sparked a furious backlash from social media users and zoo staff have received death threats by phone and email. Soon after the incident, Copenhagen Zoo faced an international outcry once again after four healthy lions were put down The most controversial animal killings Swiss Dahlholzli zoo kills healthy brown bear cub A Switzerland zoo faced heavy criticism from animal rights groups, after keepers put down a healthy brown bear cub to spare it from being bullied by its dominant male father. The 360 kg male bear Misha had already killed one of his 11-week old cubs in public and was bullying the second, staff at the zoo said, because he was jealous of the attention the cubs were receiving from their mother, Masha. Both adult brown bears had been donated to Berns Dahlholzli zoo in 2009. Campaigners condemned staff there for not separating the cubs, who are being referred to as Baby Bear Two and Baby Bear Three, and their mother from Misha after their birth in January Facebook

The 29-year-old western lowland silverback gorilla came Louisville Zoo. The move is going well so far, the zoo said.

Mshindi has settled in nicely, said Ron Evans, Cincinnati Zoos curator of primates, in a statement. We worked closely with Louisville Zoos gorilla staff to learn Mshindis trained behaviors for body presentations and health exams and to get familiar with his likes and dislikes. When working with highly intelligent animals like the great apes, its imperative for keepers from both zoos involved in a transfer to collaborate and exchange detailed information to ensure a smooth transition.

Neither Mr Evans or the rest of Cincinnati Zoo's statement made any reference to Harambe. Instead, it focused on the zoo's work trying to conserve and save the species.

The outcry at the death of Harambe was so strong that the zoo was forced to plead with people to stop "constantly mentioning" Harambe and creating memes about the dead gorilla.

"We are not amused by the memes, petitions and signs about Harambe," Thane Maynard, Cincinnati Zoo director, said last year. "Our zoo family is still healing, and the constant mention of Harambe makes moving forward more difficult for us. We are honoring Harambe by redoubling our gorilla conservation efforts and encouraging others to join us."

Since then, its public and press channels have mostly been shut off. Repeated calls to the zoo over the last year have gone unanswered, and all of the zoo's social media posts are still responded to by a flood of people upset about the death of Harambe.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Hurricane Maria has strengthened to a Category 3 storm as it heads toward the Caribbean, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Maria was rapidly intensifying into a major hurricane, according to the NHC. The eye is expected to move through the Leeward Islands later on Monday. The storm's centre was about 60 miles (95 kilometres) east of Martinique, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (195 kph).

The storm is on a path that would take it near many of the islands wrecked by Hurricane Irma and on toward Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Hurricane warnings were posted for Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat and Martinique.

The storm's future path is unclear at this point. After hitting those Caribbean islands over the next few days, the storm has the potential to move north and hit Florida, or potentially the east coast of the US.

"We may luck out and it turns north before reaching Florida," Dave Samuhel, an AccuWeather meteorologist, said. "Unfortunately, it looks like blocking pressure could force it into Florida. Definitely something we are watching."

Maria is expected to experience further rapid strengthening over the next 48 hours, according to the NHC. The storm may end up having winds as high as 150 mph Tuesday, which would make it a Category 4 hurricane.

Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Show all 8 1 /8 Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Jennifer Nelson, senior keeper at Zoo Miami, leads a cheetah named Koda to a hurricane resistant structure within the zoo, Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017 in Miami. AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Ryan Martinez, a trainer at Zoo Miami, places an Eurasion Eagle Owl into a crate AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Flamingos at Zoo Miami, are shown in a temporary enclosure in a hurricane resistant structure within the zoo, (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee) Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Brown pelicans and an American white pelican take refuge in a shelter ahead of the downfall of Hurricane Irma at the zoo in Miami REUTERS/Adrees Latif Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami An African crested porcupine is moved into a shelter ahead of the downfall of Hurricane Irma at the zoo in Miami, Florida, REUTERS/Adrees Latif Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami A macaw parrot looks out of it's cage after being put into a shelter REUTERS/Adrees Latif Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami An African grey parrot is moved into a shelter ahead of the downfall of Hurricane Irma REUTERS/Adrees Latif Animals take shelter from Hurricane Irma at Zoo Miami Cheetahs are photographed in a shelter ahead of the downfall of Hurricane Irma at the zoo in Miami, Florida, REUTERS/Adrees Latif

"This storm promises to be catastrophic for our island," Ernesto Morales, with the National Weather Service in San Juan, said. "All of Puerto Rico will experience hurricane-force winds."

Before Maria hits Puerto Rico, however, the storm is likely to impact the US Virgin Islands Tuesday night or Wednesday. People there are lining up to flee the storm, with the devastation of Hurricane Irma still weighing heavy on their mind. Irma hit there on September 7 as a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of 185 mph. That storm blew apart homes and businesses, and power is expected to be out there for months.

Haiti could experience the wrath of the storm on Wednesday, and officials there have set up shelters capable of housing 100,000 evacuees if necessary.

Whether Maria hits the United States depends on steering currents in the upper atmosphere, which can't be predicted a week in advance. The east coast is already staring down the potential for tropical storm level winds from Hurricane Jose, and warnings have been posted for a good portion of the southern New England coast.

The US has already experienced a devastating hurricane season after weathering major impacts from both Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Harvey. Irma left millions without power in Florida, and destroyed hundreds of homes. Harvey inundated Houston with torrential flooding, leaving thousands stranded in the city. All told, Harvey and Irma may have caused more than $150 billion in damages together, which would put those two storms on par with the costs associated with Hurricane Katrina.

Those costs will be shouldered by several different sources, including by individuals themselves. In addition to those private citizens, help will also come from the federal government, and insurers.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Georgia Tech police shot and killed the president of the Pride Alliance student group on Saturday night in full view of dorm residents.

Police encountered Scout Schultz, a 21-year-old computer engineering student who identified as neither male nor female, in a parking lot outside the dorms after someone called 911 to report a person with a knife and a gun, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Schultz didn't appear to be holding a gun in video recorded from a window above the parking lot, as the campus was placed on lockdown shortly before midnight. But the student was armed with a knife, the bureau wrote in a statement - and video shows officers repeatedly telling Schultz to drop the weapon as the student advances.

Come on man, let's drop the knife, an officer with his gun drawn says in the graphic video. But Schultz walks toward him.

Shoot me!

The officer keeps backing up, moving behind a parking barricade and imploring again: Nobody wants to hurt you, man.

At least four officers had surrounded Schultz by then, according to WSB-TV. In the dorm-window video, one of the officers called out to the student, who consequently turned away from the barricade and began to move toward the new voice.

What are we doing here? the officer asked. No reply.

Do not move!

Drop it! someone says finally, as Schultz takes three more steps toward an officer, and then comes the report of a gunshot and many screams.

Schultz was taken to an Atlanta hospital early on Sunday and died there, according to the bureau, which has released few other details as it investigates the shooting. About 700 people have been shot and killed by police in the United States this year.

Georgia Tech didn't immediately respond to a Washington Post request for comment.

Scout's sudden and tragic death today has been devastating news for the Schultz family, classmates, the university's dean of students, John Stein, wrote in a statement obtained by NBC News. For members of the community who knew Scout personally, the shock and grief are particularly acute.

They seemed fine. Friends said they seemed fine, Lynne Schultz told the New York Daily News, using the pronoun they for her child, as the student asked people to do.

Speaking from the family's home town in Lilburn, Georgia, she called Schultz a nonconformist and very, very bright.

In a statement, Pride Alliance called its late president the driving force behind the group for the past two years.

They pushed us to do more events and a larger variety events, and we would not be the organisation we are known as without their constant hard work and dedication, the statement reads.

We love you Scout and we will continue to push for change.

Schultz's biography on the group's website didn't dwell much on gender politics, or reveal anything about whatever brought them face to face with police on Saturday night.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

I'm bisexual, nonbinary, and intersex, Schultz wrote. When I'm not running Pride or doing classwork I mostly play D&D and try to be politically active.

A memorial planned for Monday had about 150 RSVPs by Sunday afternoon.

The Washington Post
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Speaking at the United Nations for the first time as US President, Donald Trump decried its "mismanagement" and "bureaucracy", but was full of praise for the global bodys mission as he began a busy week of diplomacy.

With North Korea, the Rohingya refugee crisis in Burma, an increasingly confident Russia and climate change among a host of looming global issues, Mr Trump pushed for reform of the UN during his first meeting.

Expected to admonish foes - and perhaps even praise enemies like calling Kim Jong-un "rocket man" - during his major speech on Tuesday, his usual fiery rhetoric and riffing giving way to friendly greetings with UK Foreign Minister Boris Johnson and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and sticking to reading prepared remarks may see some world leaders relax just a bit.

Recommended Trump started his first UN speech by promoting his nearby building

In recent years the United Nations has not reached its full potential because of bureaucracy and mismanagement, while the United Nations on a regular budget has increased by 140 per cent and its staff has more than doubled since 2000, Mr Trump said.

I am confident that if we work together and champion truly bold reforms the United Nations will emerge as a stronger, more effective, more just and greater force for peace and harmony in the world, Mr Trump added.

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley, one of the few members of the administration that has received high praise for her leadership, appears to have had some influence over the President speaking in New York.

In the past, Mr Trump repeatedly called the UN just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time.

He also threatened to cut off US funding for the UN, which currently covers approximately 22 per cent of the overall UN budget and 28 per cent of the peacekeeping budget.

In the context of the reform discussion, however Mr Trump only mentioned the US burden of funding once and heaped praise on Mr Guterres efforts to change business as usual.

However, Mr Trump first plugged his Trump Organisation-owned residential building across the street from the UN campus, saying he first saw potential in the neighbourhood of Turtle Bay there but that without the UNs presence, the project would not have been a success for him.

He then said the UN was founded on truly noble goals, a far cry from his vitriol on the campaign trail which was being discussed in the hallways ahead of his appearance.

Mr Trump also called for setting specific metrics for success for UN Peacekeeping forces, but did not elaborate what that means in terms of ever-changing violent conflicts around the world.

He harkened back to his business world experience, saying that the UNs staff has nearly doubled in the last two decades but the world has not seen the results for the investment. What he and Ms Haley deem are results is still to be determined.

Some 128 countries were invited to attend Monday's reform meeting after signing on to a US-drafted 10-point political declaration backing efforts by Mr Guterres to initiate effective, meaningful reform. UN Security Council veto powers Russia and China did not sign the declaration.

In April Mr Trump hosted the UN Security Council in an unusual White House luncheon.

At the meeting, Mr Trump made clear his dislike of the fact that the US shoulders much of the burden for funding the UN, but noted that he would be less concerned about this if the UN did a "good job".

The President has used the word unfair to describe American taxpayer contributions to both Nato and the UN before. He echoed the statement during his first UN meeting.

Mr Guterres, using a phrase of former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, also said the world should get value for money and the organisation should keep in mind the hardworking taxpayers who underwrite its work, language not used by a Secretary-General in recent memory.

His speech began a busy week of diplomacy for Mr Trump, who is scheduled to meet separately with more than a dozen world leaders along the sidelines of the UN. In his first bilateral meeting, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mr Trump declared that they are giving it an absolute go on Middle East peace talks. Mr Trump is to meet with the head of the Palestinian Authority later in the week, but the White House has played down prospects for a breakthrough.

 Stephen Colbert: If Donald Trump had won an Emmy he might not have run for president

US National Security adviser HR McMaster said Iran's destabilising behaviour would be a major focus of those discussions. While seated next to Mr Netanyahu, a vociferous critic of the Iran nuclear deal, Mr Trump declared you'll see very soon when asked if the US would stay in the agreement. Mr Netanyahu labelled it a terrible nuclear deal.

Mr Trump also spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron, touching on the issue of the nuclear deal with Iran and climate change. Mr Trump also said that he had enjoyed a military parade while in Paris on Bastille Day, and suggested he might look to do something similar on the Fourth of July.

A slew of events are taking place in the coming week centered around addressing climate change and discussions have taken on a particular urgency given the recent withdrawal of the US from the Paris Agreement.

The accord, signed in December 2015 by nearly 200 countries and formally joined through an executive order by former President Barack Obama, aims to reduce carbon emissions and tackle global warming.

Mr Trump has said that the deal was unfair to American workers, particularly in the coal and steel industries.

His announcement was met with strong language from nearly every world leader and expert who lamented that the world second largest polluter would not work towards the goals laid out in the agreement.

A recent report by the Wall Street Journal suggested that there was some possibility of the US staying in the deal, but the White House quickly put the kibbosh on it.

Director of the National Economic Council Gary Cohn held a breakfast with energy ministers from several G20 countries on Monday, but suggested that the White House position had not changed and they were looking to withdraw without major changes to the agreement.

 Trump Compares United Nations to 'Country Club'

The White House has said that participants discussed "promoting energy security, driving economic growth, and reducing emissions at home and globally."

It suggests that perhaps Mr Trump will say something regarding energy security in his speech tomorrow, but whether that is to push for "clean coal" rather than a more sustainable, climate-friendly mix remains to be seen.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said that says dissention and conflict are at their highest level since the Cold War, while cooperation among nations has become more difficult.

He said there "a worrying degradation of the international environment, what sounded like a thinly-veiled jab at Mr Trumps simplistic America First doctrine.

He was likely also talkign about the threat from north Korea's nuclear ambitions - with an escalating war of words between the US and the North Korean regime having been a central feature of the last few weeks.

The UN has passed the most stringent sanctions ever, with the vote coming just after Ms Haley claimed that Pyongyang and its mercurial leader Kim Jong-un were begging for war. She noted that though the US did not want to use its military, its patience is running thin.

It was no small feat to get a unanimous vote given that Russia and China both have trade relations with the isolated nation.

What may still be a concern for world leaders about Mr Trumps speech tomorrow is his response to the sanctions that banned all textile exports and put a cap on fuel supplies.

For their part, both China and Russia have jointly called for a mutual freeze of activities with North Korea ceasing their nuclear programme if the US halts military drills with ally South Korea, which Pyongyang sees as a provocation. The US has repeatedly rejected the proposal.

Mr Trump noted that the sanctions, regardless of how limiting they are on Pyongyangs economy, are nothing compared to what ultimately will have to happen.

To some, it showed Mr Trumps fatalistic view towards using military action against Pyongyang.

TJ Pempel, a political science professor at the University of California - Berkeley, previously told The Independent that the crux of the North Korea comments was that Mr Trump devotes zero time to understanding the complexities of any foreign policy issue.

That could also be a cause of the anxiety over Mr Trumps speech tomorrow - which most of the nations in the General Assembly will be watching with interest.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

The Indian federal government is trying to deport Rohingya Muslims over their alleged terror ties, as the ethnic minority faces a brutal military crackdown in Burma that the UN has said could amount to ethnic cleansing.

The Indian supreme court is currently hearing an appeal lodged on the behalf of the estimated 40,000 Rohingya to save them from a plan by Prime Minister Narendra Modis Hindi nationalist government to expel them.

The country's home ministry has submitted an affidavit to the court saying it could confidentially share intelligence information with the Supreme Court showing Rohingya links to Isis and Pakistani militants.

An estimated 400,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh to escape persecution in Burma since the start of a crackdown there on 25 August.

The offensive, which the United Nations branded a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, has seen desperate refugees climbing over barbed wire border fences to escape an alleged campaign of rape and murder by Burmese soldiers in the western state of Rakhine.

Reports have emerged that the Burmese military are laying landmines along the border to stop them coming back.

But in India, the government said it had reports from security agencies and other authentic sources "indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries."

It also said there was information on Rohingya involvement in plots by Isis and other "extremist groups" to ignite communal and sectarian violence in India.

Rohingya refugees  in pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young girl and a baby wade through mud after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma on 10 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees walk through a camp in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after arriving from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young Rohingya refugee gathers firewood after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees wait for sacks of rice to be distributed in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees arrive on a boat in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after crossing from Burma on 8 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees react after being re-united with each other after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Getty Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees walk along the remains of a road after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Myanmar Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees stand in the rain after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indian children hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya Muslims in Burma EPA/Raminder Pal Singh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Supporters of the Difa-e-Pakistan Council (DPC), an Islamic organisation, listen to their leaders' speeches against Burma's persecution of Rohingya Muslims, during a demonstration in Karachi Reuters/Akhtar Soomro Rohingya refugees  in pictures Hundreds of Iranians take part in a protest against violence in Myanmar after weekly Friday prayers, in Tehran EPA/Abedin Taherkenareh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indonesian Muslim activists hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya minority in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia EPA/Ali Lutfi Rohingya refugees  in pictures Members of an Islamic organisation shout slogans against the Burma government during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh EPA

Senior home ministry official Mukesh Mittal said the Indian government would privately show the court material gathered from "sensitive investigations" to substantiate the claims in its affidavit.

They said the 40,000 Rohingya had arrived in India illegally four or five years ago from Bangladesh after fleeing Burma.

In a separate development, Indian police say they have arrested British national Shauman Haq, 27, near a bus stop in Delhi on Sunday and allege that he had come to India via Bangladesh specifically to recruit Rohingya to fight for al-Qaeda.

Rohingya in India voiced worries that they were being unfairly tainted by the allegations and sought more understanding for their plight.

"We feel helpless and hopeless," said Rohingya youth leader Ali Johar, who came to India in 2012 and lives with his family in a Delhi settlement.

"The world's largest democracy has given us shelter but they should handle this situation more empathetically."

Mr Modi's government has been criticised by activists for not speaking out against Burma's offensive against the Rohingya and right-wing groups in India have begun vilifying Rohingya living there.

The Rohingya are denied citizenship in Buddhist-majority Burma and regarded as illegal immigrants, despite claiming roots that date back centuries. More than 800,000 Rohingya currently live in Bangladesh.

Additional reporting by Reuters
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Russia and China have begun major military drills less than 100 miles from the North Korean border, amid continuing tensions over the isolated state's nuclear ambitions.

Chinese warships arrived in Peter the Great Bay, just outside of the Russian port of Vladivostok, for joint naval exercises that will extend into the Sea of Okhotsk, north of Japan.

The drills, which follows China-Russian naval exercise in the Baltic in July and runs until 26 September, have not been directly linked to the diplomatic crisis engulfing the region.

But they come amid a flurry of air, sea and land exercises on the Korean peninsula triggered by the Norths missile programme.

Both sides will carry out joint submarine rescue missions and anti-submarine drills involving ships and aircraft.

Military sources told Russian news agency Tass the drills aimed to consolidate partnership and practical cooperation between the two militaries and were not aimed at any one country.

The US, South Korea and Japan conducted their own bombing drills involving two American B-1B bombers and four F-35 jets from Guam and Japan.

They were joined by four South Korean F-15K fighters in drills that are now being held on a near-weekly basis, South Korea's defence ministry said.

Both exercises come before a UN General Assembly meeting on Tuesday, where the threat from North Korea is likely to dominate.

China has faced criticism for failing to act decisively against Pyongyang after a string of nuclear and missile tests this summer; its latest coming last Friday over Japan.

But its ambassador to the US said China would never accept North Korea as a nuclear weapons state.

 World leaders react to North Korea's latest missile launch

China's Communist Party newspaper, the People's Daily, criticised the US for demanding that Beijing put more pressure on North Korea to rein in its weapons programmes.

It said Beijing "will never accept the 'responsibility' imposed by the US".

China accounts for about 90 per cent of North Korea's trade.

Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Show all 6 1 /6 Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Photos released by North Korea show Kim Jong-un talking to subordinates next to a device thought to be the new thermonuclear weapon. There is no way of independently verifying the pictures STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb North Korea claims it has successfully tested an advanced hydrogen bomb which could be loaded onto an intercontinental ballistic missile AFP/Getty Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A diagram on the wall behind Mr Kim shows a bomb mounted inside a cone STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un (C) attending a photo session with participants of the fourth conference of active secretaries of primary organisations of the youth league of the Korean People's Army (KPA) in Pyongyang STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A new stamp issued in commemoration of the successful second test launch of the "Hwasong-14" intercontinental ballistic missile KCNA via Reuters Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A new stamp issued in commemoration of the successful second test launch of the "Hwasong-14" intercontinental ballistic missile KCNA via Reuters

Later, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told reporters that "some related parties" - a reference to the US and North Korea - "keep sending threatening messages both in words and deeds that include warnings of military action".

"These kinds of actions don't help solve the problem but further complicate the situation," he said.

Much like China, Russias reaction to the North Korean standoff has been subdued, with the foreign ministry calling the missile launch regrettable.

Moscow has urged all the parties involved [to] stop escalating tensions that accompany each new cycle of responses and counter responses, laying partial blame on Washington for ratcheting up tensions.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have pleaded for safe passage from two remote Burmese villages cut off by hostile Buddhists and running short of food.

Villagers feared their houses would be burned down and said they could starve to death unless authorities helped them flee.

At least 430,000 Rohingya have escaped into neighbouring Bangladesh amid a campaign of violent persecution that United Nations has called a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing".

"We're terrified," Maung Maung, a Rohingya official at Ah Nauk Pyin village, told Reuters by telephone. "We'll starve soon and they're threatening to burn down our houses."

Another Rohingya Muslim, who asked not to be named, said ethnic Rakhine Buddhists came to the same village and shouted: "Leave or we will kill you all."

Fragile relations between Ah Nauk Pyin and its neighbours were shattered on 25 August, when deadly attacks by Rohingya militants in the western Rakhine state prompted a ferocious response from Burmese security forces.

About a million Rohingya lived in the state until the crisis but endure systematic discrimination in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Most of the Muslim minority face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship.

Tin Maung Swe, secretary of the the state's government, said he had received no information about the plea for safe passage and claimed southern Rathedaung, the district in which the villages sit, was "completely safe".

"There is nothing to be concerned about," he added.

 Rohingya crisis: Muslim village burnt to the ground

National police spokesman Myo Thu Soe also denied knowledge of the trapped Rohingya villagers but said he would investigate.

The US State Department's East Asia Bureau called "urgently" for Burma's security forces "to act in accordance with the rule of law and to stop the violence and displacement suffered by individuals from all communities."

"Tens of thousands of people reportedly lack adequate food, water, and shelter in northern Rakhine state," spokeswoman Katina Adams said.

"The government should act immediately to assist them."

She added that Patrick Murphy, the US deputy assistant secretary of state for East Asia, would reiterate grave concern about the situation in Rakhine when he meets senior officials in Burma this week.

The UK was set to host a ministerial meeting to discuss the crisis in Rakhine on Monday on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly in New York.

A Rohingya refugee woman carries water jars during rainy weather at a makeshift camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh (Reuters)

Until three weeks ago, there were 21 Muslim villages in Rathedaung, along with three camps for Muslims displaced by previous bouts of religious violence. Sixteen of those villages and all three camps have since been emptied and in many cases burnt, forcing an estimated 28,000 Rohingya to flee.

Rathedaung's five surviving Rohingya villages and their 8,000 or so inhabitants are encircled by Rakhine Buddhists, human rights monitors have said.

The situation is particularly dire in Ah Nauk Pyin and nearby Naung Pin Gyi, where any escape route to Bangladesh is long, arduous, and sometimes blocked by hostile Rakhine neighbours.

Maung Maung, the Rohingya official, said the villagers were resigned to leaving but had no boats to escape and authorities have not responded to their requests for security.

"It's better they go somewhere else," said Thein Aung, a Rathedaung official, who dismissed allegations that Rakhines were threatening Rohingya.

Two of the 25 August attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) took place in Rathedaung. But the township was already a tinderbox of religious tension, with ARSA citing the mistreatment of Rohingya there as one justification for its offensive.

In late July, Rakhine residents of a large, mixed village in northern Rathedaung enclosed hundreds of Rohingya inside their neighbourhood and blocked access to food and water.

Maung Maung said he had called the police at least 30 times to report threats against his village.

In one 13 September phone call, heard in a recording passed to Reuters, a man told him: "Leave tomorrow or we'll come and burn down all your houses."

When Maung Maung protested that they had no means to escape, the man replied: "That's not our problem."

On 31 August, the police convened a roadside meeting between seven Rohingya from Ah Nauk Pyin and 14 Rakhine officials from the surrounding villages.

Instead of addressing Rohingya complaints the Rakhine officials delivered an ultimatum, according to Maung Maung and two other Rohingya who attended the meeting,

"They said they didn't want any Muslims in the region and we should leave immediately," said a Rohingya resident of Ah Nauk Pyin who requested anonymity.

The Rohingya agreed, but only if the authorities provided security, said Maung Maung.

He showed Reuters a letter that village elders had sent to the Rathedaung authorities on 7 September, asking to be moved to "another place". They had yet to receive a response, he said.

A Rohingya refugee woman is carried in a sling, through a swollen water stream in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh (Reuters)

Relations between the two communities deteriorated in 2012, when religious unrest in Rakhine state killed nearly 200 people and made 140,000 homeless, most of them Rohingya. Scores of houses in Ah Nauk Pyin were torched.

Since then, said villagers, Rohingya have been too scared to leave the village or till their land, surviving mainly on monthly deliveries from the World Food Programme (WFP).

The recent violence halted those deliveries as the WFP pulled out most staff and suspended operations in the region.

Residents in the area's two Rohingya villages said they could no longer venture out to fish or buy food from Rakhine traders, and were running low on food and medicines.

Maung Maung said the local police told the Rohingya to stay in their villages and not to worry because "nothing would happen".

But the nearest police station has about six officers and could not do much if Ah Nauk Pyin was attacked, he said.

Rohingya refugees  in pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young girl and a baby wade through mud after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma on 10 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees walk through a camp in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after arriving from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young Rohingya refugee gathers firewood after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees wait for sacks of rice to be distributed in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees arrive on a boat in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after crossing from Burma on 8 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees react after being re-united with each other after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Getty Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees walk along the remains of a road after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Myanmar Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees stand in the rain after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indian children hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya Muslims in Burma EPA/Raminder Pal Singh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Supporters of the Difa-e-Pakistan Council (DPC), an Islamic organisation, listen to their leaders' speeches against Burma's persecution of Rohingya Muslims, during a demonstration in Karachi Reuters/Akhtar Soomro Rohingya refugees  in pictures Hundreds of Iranians take part in a protest against violence in Myanmar after weekly Friday prayers, in Tehran EPA/Abedin Taherkenareh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indonesian Muslim activists hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya minority in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia EPA/Ali Lutfi Rohingya refugees  in pictures Members of an Islamic organisation shout slogans against the Burma government during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh EPA

A few minutes' walk away, at the Rakhine village of Shwe Long Tin, residents were also on edge, said its leader Khin Tun Aye.

Villagers heard gunfire at night and were guarding the village around the clock with machetes and slingshots in case it was attacked by the ARSA.

"We're also terrified," he said.

He added he had told his fellow Rakhine to stay calm, but the situation remained so tense that he feared for the safety of his Rohingya neighbours.

Rohingya who have fled Burma also face a growing humanitarian crisis, with aid agencies warning of shortages of food, water, and shelter in Bangladeshi refugee camps.

A woman and two children were reportedly killed in a stampede on Sunday as food and clothing were thrown from relief trucks.

UN Secretary-General on Sunday added to growing pressure on Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi to do more to stop end the military crackdown on the Rohingya.

I would expect that the leader of the country would be able to contain it, and would be able to reverse the situation, Antonio Guterres said in a BBC interview.

She has a chance, she has a last chance in my opinion, to do so.

Otherwise, he said, the tragedy will be absolutely horrible.

Additional reporting by agencies
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

An Australian town is in the grip of a paedophile epidemic with 90 per cent of school-age children suffering abuse, police have warned.

Thirty-six men have been charged with more than 300 offences against 184 children after an investigation uncovered a "staggering" rate of abuse in Roebourne, Western Australia.

The state's child protection minister said the scale of the epidemic was so vast that child sex abuse had become "normal" in the remote former gold rush town, which has a largely Aboriginal population of about 1,410.

Police have identified 124 suspects from Roebourne and the surrounding communities during the operation, which still has another year to run.

The confirmed victims amount to about 90 per cent of the town's school-age population, according to The Australian, and police say they expect more to come forward.

Simon McGurk, West Australian Child Protection Minister, said abuse had become normalised through an "intergenerational" cycle.

You would have to say that, through the sorts of numbers we are starting to see, she said. Its intergenerational. Many of these perpetrators were victims themselves.

West Australian Police Commissioner Karl OCallaghan said the scale of the abuse was the worst the state had ever seen and amounted to an "almost unrecoverable crisis".

Its a war zone out there and the victims are little kids, he said.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

British-born Mr O'Callaghan, who oversaw the first leg of the investigation, told The Australian: I cannot understand why we are not as a nation more shocked. When you look at the percentages, in the history of police investigation in WA, Ive never known that percentage of kids in a town of 1,500. Its phenomenal.

He added: "If it happened in a Perth suburb... thered be more noise [but] because its an Aboriginal community and they are Aboriginal children were not as outraged by it."

Mr O'Callaghan said sex offenders in the town, where 80 per cent of people are on benefits, were spending welfare money on drugs and alcohol to lure children.

A high proportion of children in Roebourne are classed as vulnerable, according to news.com.au.

A government report published seven years ago found alcohol abuse, child neglect, violence, and crime among the town's were occurring at an alarming rate.

Alcohol consumption was three times the Australian average, the report found.

Roebourne, which lies in the Pilbara region 930 miles (1,500km) from Western Australia state capital Perth, was a booming mining town in the 19th century.

But was reduced to a virtual ghost town in the 1960s, when mining companies developed other towns to accommodate their workers, and was subsequently reclaimed by Aboriginals as a native township.

The benefits of lucrative iron ore mines nearby have largely passed by the town, which has an employment rate of half that of wider Pilbara.
Lebanon clinics

adds providers

Samaritan Family Medicine Resident Clinic  Lebanon welcomes new physicians Kathryn Bachman, D.O., and David Simmons, M.D., to its team of providers.

Simmons earned a bachelors degree from Oberlin College followed by a medical degree from Oregon Health & Science University. He recently completed a residency with Providence Oregon Family Medicine Residency.

His passions include empowering patients to reduce the number of medications they take, as well as providing education and resources for body-based treatments for chronic pain. He chose to join Samaritan partly to be re-united with Rick Wopat, MD, who was one of his in-clinic trainers during medical school.

Bachman earned a bachelors degree from Goshen College and a medical osteopathic degree from Des Moines University. She recently completed a residency at Community East Family Medicine Residency in Indianapolis prior to joining Samaritan.

Her specialties and interests include obstetrics, contraception and womens health maintenance. She also offers osteopathic manipulation treatments and helps her patients with chronic pain to find non-narcotic treatments that work for them.

A Willamette Valley native, Bachman joined Samaritan because of the organizations emphasis on community health.

Simmons and Bachman can be reached for an appointment by calling 541-451-6960.



Nurse joins

Corvallis clinic

Nurse practitioner Leslie Shortridge is the newest family medicine provider at The Corvallis Clinic.

She is seeing patients at the clinic's facility at 1705 Waverly Drive SE in Albany. Appointments are available at 541-967-8221.

Shortridge earned a Master of Science degree in nursing, family nurse practitioner, last year from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Shortridge was a registered nurse and worked as nurse manager at Pregnancy Alternatives Center in Lebanon from 2009 to 2014, and as health services coordinator for Lebanon Community Schools from 2002 to 2008. She also was the office surgical RN/office manager for Terry Shortridge, M.D., in Lebanon, from 1992 to 2000, and the staff RN for Genstler Eye Center in Albany in 1991 and 1992.

Foundation picks

officers, directors

The Corvallis Kiwanis Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation that was incorporated in July 1973 by the two Corvallis-area Kiwanis clubs, the Kiwanis Club of Corvallis and the Kiwanis Club of Corvallis Sunrisers, announced its officers and directors for their 2017-18 term.

Officers are Art Koebel, president; John Gallagher, vice president; Cheri Galvin, secretary, Jim Searcy, treasurer; and Barrett Reeve, as past president. Directors are Harry Lorz, Barara Malloy, Dottie Horton, Len Butterfield, Milt Donelson and Les Ishikawa.

Donations made to the foundation qualify as charitable contributions according to both state and federal requirements. The foundation accepts grant applications from October 15 through December 1 at www.kiwanissunrisers.org/foundation.

Team attends

fire conference

The Albany Fire Department and Good Samaritan Home Health were awarded a scholarship to attend the 2016 NFPA Remembering When Conference last November in San Antonio, Texas.

The team participated in training to deliver educational fire and falls prevention program sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association.

NFPA selected teams from 30 communities across the United States and Canada to travel to San Antonio for the training. Teams are composed of at least one member of the fire department partnered with an individual from an agency within the community that serves older adults. Physical Therapist Lori Mueller of Good Samaritan Home Health is partnering with Community Paramedic Hillary Kosmicki and Deputy Fire Marshal Sandy Roberts from Albany Fire Department.

The team conducted group presentations and training sessions to prepare additional facilitators. They also held public education classes for community members. Team members also bring the program to older adults during home visits where they will tailor the Remembering When messages and help older adults identify changes that will increase home safety.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Firefighters spent three hours using power tools to free a man with his penis trapped in a gym weight.

The crew used an angle-grinder and a circular saw to prise the 2.5kg dumbbell disc off the unfortunate weight-lifter at a hospital in Worms, Germany.

They also employed a hydraulic emergency tool more often used to free trapped car crash victims.

The man reportedly had to be sedated as firefighters cut through and smashed the weight.

Worms fire department posted a picture of the shattered disc on social media following the rescue operation on Friday.

"One person had a very sensitive part of the body trapped in the hole of a 2.5 kg dumbbell disc," it said on Facebook, describing the call-out as "somewhat different".

Perhaps wisely, the department offered no details on how the man became trapped. But it cautioned: "Please do not imitate such actions."

In May, firefighters in north London used hydraulic tools to rescue a man who had his genitals stuck in a penis ring for two days.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

In 2004, Hjalti Sigurjon Hauksson was imprisoned for raping his stepdaughter nearly every day for 12 years, starting when she was just five. Thirteen years later, his crime has helped bring down Iceland's government.

The story involves Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson and his father, Benedikt Sveinsson.

Here's what happened: Several months ago, Sveinsson drafted a letter of recommendation for Hauksson, arguing he should have his honour restored. In Iceland, convicts can have certain civil rights returned by submitting letters of recommendation showing good character. Hauksson and another convicted paedophile, Robert Downey (formerly named Robert Arni Hreidarsson), received full pardons over the summer.

Recommended Icelandic PM calls snap election due to child sex abuse scandal

Those decisions rattled Icelandic society, according to Iceland Magazine. As a reporter explains: public and media have spent much of summer discussing the two cases and the horrifying world of violence and abuse they revealed.

Soon after, one of Downey's victims launched a campaign urging the government to release the letters of support for Downey and Hauksson. But the Justice Ministry refused to respond to questions on the subject.

This week, a parliamentary committee ruled that the administration was violating freedom of information laws by keeping the names a secret. So the letters were released to the news media. Even more damning: On Thursday, Iceland's justice minister, Sigridur Andersen, told television news reporters he had informed the prime minister of his father's involvement back in June. She said she told no one else.

That disclosure, which smacked of a cover-up, sent shock waves through Iceland's political class and threatened the fragile three-party coalition that put Benediktsson in power last year.

To secure a majority, his Independence Party joined forces with the centrists and the Bright Future coalition, squeaking in with a razor-thin majority of 32 out of 63 seats. On Friday, Bright Future voted unanimously to leave the government. The letter was the straw that broke the camel's back, a Bright Future insider told Reuters. This is not in our spirit, and everybody agreed this was the end of it. It came as a complete surprise. It was something we couldn't have continued with, this is something completely opposed to our principles. The corruption and dishonesty are just incredible.

Bright Future's decision left Benediktsson without a majority. He called his behaviour a serious breach of trust and dissolved his government. We have lost the majority, and I don't see anything that indicates we can regain that, he told reporters. He has called for speedy elections, aiming for November.

This isn't Benediktsson's first controversy. He and his father both appeared in the Panama Papers, connected to offshore tax havens and a controversial sale of state assets.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

In a statement, Benediktsson's father apologised for signing the letter of support for his old friend. I have never considered the restored honour as anything except a legal procedure making it possible for convicted criminals to regain some civil rights, Sveinsson said, according to the BBC. I did not think of it as something that would justify Hjalti's position toward his victim. I told Hjalti to face his action and to repent.

Hauksson's victim called the situation surreal. In interviews with Icelandic media, she said Hauksson has continued to harass her, even approaching her six-year-old daughter while she was on a field trip. Hauksson was working as a bus driver at the time.

The Washington Post
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Iraqs Prime Minister has said it is possible a teenage German jihadi bride could face the death penalty for her involvement with Isis.

The fate of 16-year-old Linda Wenzel now lies in the hands of the Iraqi judicial process, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said.

The teenager was found hiding in a basement in Mosul by Iraqi forces during an offensive to drive the jihadists from the city in July.

She ran away from her home in eastern Germany to join Isis in Iraq after talking to extremists online and is believed to have spent around a year in the country.

She is currently in a Baghdad prison awaiting trial to determine whether she faces death by hanging.

You know teenagers under certain laws, they are accountable for their actions especially if the act is a criminal activity when it amounts to killing innocent people, the Prime Minister said in an interview with the Associated Press.

Iraq carried out at least 88 executions by hanging in 2016 and has put to death large numbers of people for terrorism offences since wresting Mosul back from Isis.

If tried in Germany, Linda could face a prison term between of between one and ten years. Germany's Foreign Ministry previously said they were working on returning the teen and three other German women who are imprisoned in Iraq, but there is currently no extradition treaty between the two countries.

Iraqi intelligence forces told AP that Linda allegedly worked with the Isis police force.

Amir Musawy, an Iraqi journalist who met the German teenager after her arrest, said she was exhausted and had a leg injury when he spoke to her.

He said he was not sure she recognised the gravity of the situation she now finds herself in.

I do not have the feeling that she understands what she did, and what she might have waiting for her, whether in Iraq or in Germany.

She just told me that she wants her home back, like a journey that she went on and did not like.

Its like she is still thinking like a child or a young woman and not understanding what is waiting for her.

He added that the teenager was wearing a headscarf when they met and appeared to be still under the influence of the jihadists.

She does want to go home, definitely, she answered Yes, I am German when I asked her that.

Linda, who comes from the small town of Saxony, is being held in Baghdad along with hundreds of other foreign women with Isis links suspected of carrying out terrorist attacks, Iraqi officials said.

She was just 15 years old when she fled her homeland and told journalists in July that she regrets ever going to Iraq.

I want to go home to my family, she said at the time. I want to get out of the war, away from the weapons, the noise.

She said it took her a month to travel to Turkey, through Syria and into Iraq to marry an Isis fighter before she was taken to Mosul, where her husband was killed shortly after they arrived.

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 Prime Minister said Iraqi forces detained 1,333 women and children who surrendered to Kurdish forces during the offensive to liberate Mosul.

The other non-Iraqi women include citizens from France, Belgium, Syria and Iran.

Many of those being detained at the camp are not guilty of any crime, Mr al-Abadi said, adding that his government is communicating with their home countries to find a way to hand them over.

So far, Iraq has repatriated fewer than 100 people, but the Prime Minister said: It is not in our interest to keep families and children inside our country when their countries are prepared to take them.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

You dont just go and do terrible things straight away, says my ex-Bell Pottinger colleague over drinks in a South London wine bar. Were discussing the scandal that finally sunk the PR house after it was caught inciting racial hatred in South Africa on behalf of its clients, the Gupta family, and their investment vehicle Oakbay. Now, Bell Pottinger has collapsed into administration after being expelled from the industry regulatory body the PRCA, with hundreds losing their jobs.

You build up to doing bad things, without even realising what youre doing is bad, they go on. Your boss tells you to do something, so you do it.

After working in the lobbying industry for three years, I left to become a journalist in 2015. During that time I worked at a number of big-name firms, including Bell Pottinger.

I learned a lot from my experiences in the industry, and on the whole I dont regret it. I worked with smart, good people who taught me how to be hard-working and professional. I made lifelong friends. And I represented clients that I believed were doing important things  making great strides in the technology world, or lobbying the Government on behalf of those who could not, like pensioners living in fuel poverty.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 7 November 2022 Handout photo issued by Just Stop Oil of a protester who has climbed a gantry on the M25 between junctions six and seven in Surrey, leading to the closure of the motorway PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2022 A grey seal with its pup, at the Donna Nook National Nature Reserve in north Lincolnshire, where they come every year in late October, November and December to give birth to their pups near the sand dunes, the wildlife spectacle attracts visitors from across the UK PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 A villager cooks roti bread at the site of the annual Camel Fair in Pushkar, in India's desert state of Rajasthan AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters

Bell Pottingers downfall has dominated headlines for months, but Ill rehearse the key details here briefly. They ran a social media campaign on behalf of Oakbay, who were paying the firm 100,000 a month. In return for this pant-droppingly huge amount, Bell Pottinger ran an anti-monopoly capital campaign that was later judged by the PRCA to stir up hatred in a country where the memory of racial violence is as red-raw as a freshly inked tattoo. It was a venal, despicable thing to do. But having worked in the industry, I can understand how it happened.

People tend to think of corporate lobbying as an industry peopled by Renaissance-era courtiers plotting political intrigues over North London lasagne suppers or in the gaudy interiors of Saudi jets. This does happen. But most of the time, things are duller and more prosaic.

Understand the industry, and youll understand how good people overcame their scruples to do a terrible injustice to the people of South Africa.

Working in a firm like Bell Pottinger becomes more stressful the higher up you get. Partners need to bring in new business to justify their salaries, and they need to over-service their most expensive, demanding clients. In a culture where executives are constantly measured against financial targets, the pressure to keep lucrative families like the Guptas happy becomes paramount  and scruples were quietly dropped.

What have the other PR houses said of Bell Pottingers demise, after all? Nothing. Their silence resembles the quiet whir a cash machine makes before dispensing notes: to speak out would risk shining the spotlight on their own activities  and besides, theyre too busy wining and dining Bell Pottingers former clients! (Itll be steak for supper at many PR firms this autumn.)

 Lobby Group want to know who is in every AirBnb rental

Bell Pottinger wasn't exceptional, and this probably isnt even the worst thing they did. Its important to remember that the only reason Bell Pottinger was undone was because of the work of the South African opposition party to expose them. Without that, Bell Pottinger would still be free to represent the Oscar Pistoriuses of this world. And theyd be in good company. Similarly reprehensible practices are widespread at firms across London.

Ive heard firsthand from a former lobbying industry executive (at a different firm) of repressive Middle Eastern governments personally bribing British journalists to look favourably on their activities; of war rooms pumping out made-up blogs and social media postings spreading fake news. Spray luminol across Londons major PR houses, and youll see similar blood spatters.

It may seem astonishing to someone whos never worked in the industry that good people could work on the Oakbay account and not raise objections. (From what its worth, my sources within the company tell me that many did, and were overruled). But its not to me.

Youre an inexperienced account executive, or a harried partner with a new business target and pressure from above. Youre not a savvy geopolitical operator and barely understand South African politics. Youre used to skirting close to the line and, above all, to obeying orders  the culture of deference in firms at Bell Pottinger is paramount.

Above all, you uphold the sacrosanct belief of all lobbyists: that everyone is entitled to representation, in the same way theyd be entitled to a lawyer.

 Motion of confidence against South African president Zuma falls

When youre in the business of representing some of the worst people in the world, its easy to lose your head. Things that are objectively very wrong  whipping up racial hatred, for instance  become professionalised and clinical. Its hard to recognise what youre doing, really, as you upload a blog post from a smart London office. You detach from your actions as cleanly as a pathologist, unflinching as you peel the skin away from the dead.

In 1971, psychology professor Philip Zimbardo ran a psychological experiment to understand the implications of perceived power. Over the course of the Stanford prison experiment, the white, middle class men designated guards tortured, humiliated, and stripped naked their prisoners.

Eventually, the experiment was stopped because one woman  Christina Maslach, a graduate psychology student  questioned its morality. Out of 50 people involved, she was the only one to do so.

There are clear parallels to be made, nearly 50 years on, with Bell Pottingers collapse. Good people did bad things because authority figures in a deference-heavy culture told them it was the right thing to do. If a lesson is to be learned, its that we need more Christina Maslachs in the world  and we need to listen to them.
Academics invited to speak at a prestigious United Nations education conference are calling on governments, universities and research funders to support a Wikipedia for educators to solve the longstanding problem of keeping teachers up to date with the latest research.







Professor Sarah Younie, De Montfort University Leicester (DMU)s Professor in Education Innovation, and Professor Marilyn Leask, Visiting Professor in Education at DMU, are leading an international network of educators developing the web resource MESH.



MESH, which stands for Mapping Educational Specialist knowhow, is a knowledge mobilisation system giving teachers, policy makers and academics access to the latest thinking and research to guide lesson planning, policy improvements and future research.



Instead of relying solely on intuition to guide what works in the classroom, teachers can read MESH research summaries to find evidence-based approaches that have been proven to remove barriers to learning or indeed to keep up to date in their subject.



Today educators from more than 180 countries use the resource, with a growing community of volunteers contributing who share the same ethos to improve education. MESH has been dubbed Edupedia and emerging evidence has shown its benefits in helping support professional judgement.



On Wednesday, Prof Younie and Prof Leask have been invited to present their work to the United Nations Teacher Task Force conference being held in Togo, West Africa.



Prof Younie said: "The MESH network has developed a Marginal Gains strategy which asks education system stakeholders to produce MESH guide research summaries whenever research reports are published. A small change in practice can thus have a significant impact with the research findings made easily available to the millions of teachers worldwide.



Prof Leask, a teacher, researcher, author, Dean of Education and Government policy officer at DMU and Winchester University, said: "Governments around the world want the best education possible for the coming generations but the cost of keeping each individual teacher up to date in every topic is simply beyond what any one country can afford. The MESH system supports inter-government collaboration and international knowledge sharing supported by digital tools to provide a low cost solution to this longstanding problem.

Gary Brace, Board Director (Education), UK National Commission for UNESCO is one of many supporters. He said: "Improving quality and equity in education are at the core of SDG4. It follows that we must put emphasis on improving the quality of teachers and teaching.

"A high impact and low cost system of support for teachers is needed if we are to make a global difference to education by 2030. By using available existing technology and drawing on what we already know about what works in teaching, the MESHGuides can both update teachers professional knowledge and help improve their practice. If grasped, within a few years the MESHGuides approach could bring a step change to professional support for teachers and, consequently, the quality of education for millions of children."



Other users have also praised the system. Professor Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa, Quito, Ecuador, said: "UNESCO Latin American fully backs and is enthusiastic about MESH/Conexiones and trusts the quality of the work. MESH is an elegant low cost solution to the long standing problem of keeping teachers up to date.



Professor N.B. Jumani, Islamabad, Pakistan, added: "MESHGuides have the potential to support teachers everywhere in giving lessons which inspire learners."



Improving the quality of education in every country is a UN priority. Some 350 delegates including teachers, educators, teachers union representatives, NGOs, researchers, policy makers and those from Teacher Task Force Member States will be attending the UN event in Lome, Togo.



The theme of this years forum is Teaching: A Profession, and examines ways to achieve the UNs stated goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all by 2030.



MESH is a tool of the Educational Futures Collaboration, a registered charity set up for educators and their partners to work to improve the quality of education. Prof Younie and Prof Leask are the co- chairs. In 1995, they co-founded with the Swedish ministry, the successful European SchoolNet which connects teachers and pupils across Europe in undertaking collaborative projects.




Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has accused the Government of playing politics with the housing situation

Action to tackle the housing emergency needs to be taken at every level of supply, the Fianna Fail leader has said.

The rate of growth in construction activity in Ireland fell last month to its slowest rate in more than two years, according to Ulster Bank.

Micheal Martin accused the Government of playing politics while the country suffered.

He said: " The scale of the housing emergency continues to get worse.

"For some inexplicable reason it took the new minister three months to arrange a meeting with the people charged with delivering housing in local authorities. In the coming weeks he will publish the fourth housing plan in as many years.

"Our policy is clear - we are proposing action at every level of housing supply with the biggest action being targeted at social and affordable housing."

Consultants Deloitte have warned that housing could become the biggest constraint on growth in the Irish economy.

It said the undersupply could ultimately hinder efforts to boost productivity and limit the ability to attract foreign direct investment.

Last week the Taoiseach announced that the government will be utilising NAMA to tackle the housing crisis, Mr Martin noted, calling for more action and less words.

"We are going to keep on pushing for delivery on social housing, on affordable housing, on helping families with serious household debt problems and on rental supply and affordability."

The Housing Department said its action plan for housing and homelessness sets out measures to be taken to address the housing crisis.

The plan provides for expenditure of 5.35 billion euros (4.73 billion) on 47,000 additional social houses.

A statement said: " Unlocking supply is the key to overcoming many of the housing challenges we face and a number of initiatives have been introduced under the plan including: 226 million euros (200 million) for critical infrastructure to get key sites moving; changes to the planning system to fast-track large scale housing planning applications; mapping of state lands available for social and private homes."

A review of the action plan is underway.

"This review will identify what new and additional actions can be taken to improve the supply of housing across all tenures, with a particular emphasis on social and affordable housing. Minister (Eoghan) Murphy intends to conclude the review shortly."
Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted of all charges

Ibrahim Halawa's sister has said his family want him home as soon as possible following his acquittal in Egypt after four years in jail.

Mr Halawa was cleared on Monday of all charges connected to mass protests in Cairo in August 2013.

It is unlikely the 21-year-old will be released immediately due to procedures within the Egyptian judicial and prison authorities.

His sister Somaia Halawa said the family is "overjoyed" by the Egyptian court's verdict.

She added: "We are delighted at today's verdict. Our entire family are overjoyed at the result and we now look forward to seeing Ibrahim return home as soon as possible.

"We would like to extend our thanks to all those who tirelessly campaigned and fought for Ibrahim's release."

Mr Halawa's lawyer Darragh Mackin, of KRW LAW, said he and the Halawa family "will be actively engaging with the Irish and Egyptian Government to ensure that happens without any further delay".

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also welcomed the news of Mr Halawa's acquittal.

He said he expected him to be released as soon as possible to return home to his family.

Mr Varadkar added: "The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity.

"I want to acknowledge the consular and diplomatic work undertaken on Ibrahim's behalf by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Irish Embassy in Cairo throughout this lengthy process.

"Following today's verdict, they will continue to assist Ibrahim and his family to ensure he gets home as soon as possible."

Mr Halawa, a student and son of a prominent Muslim cleric in Dublin - Sheikh Hussein Halawa - was jailed after being detained in a mosque near Ramses Square in Cairo four years ago amid protests over the removal of president Mohamed Morsi. He was 17 at the time.

He has been cleared of all charges.

His three sisters - Somaia, Fatima and Omaima - were also arrested but later released on bail and returned to Dublin.

All three, who were tried in absentia, were also acquitted.

Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said the Government had been hoping for good news.

He added: "Ibrahim Halawa's name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

"My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them.

"The Government's priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that we can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible.

"We are conscious that there will be some practical procedures and formalities to be gone through before Ibrahim will be able to fly back to Dublin, but my department and our embassy team will be assisting and supporting Ibrahim and his family to seek to ensure he gets home as soon as possible."

Upon his eventual release, Mr Halawa will not be able to return home to Ireland immediately due to security and immigration status issues.

Ireland's Children's Minister Katherine Zappone said Mr Halawa's acquittal must be followed by a swift return home.

"It is important that all who campaigned over the past four years continue to co-operate to ensure Ibrahim's return is arranged as soon as possible.

"I remain in close contact with Ibrahim's sister Somaia, his lawyers and Government colleagues to ensure that Ibrahim's needs are immediately assessed and any supports required put in place.

"Assessing his health, psychological and social needs must be the priority," she said.
Ryanair passengers are furious that the budget airline is shelving up to 50 flights a day

Ryanair has published details of flights cancelled up to the end of next month.

Customers affected will be emailed offers of alternatives or full refunds and details of their compensation entitlement, the budget airline confirmed.

It faces a compensation bill of up to 20 million euro (17.7 million) for the "mess" which has left many passengers stranded, boss Michael O'Leary said.

The Dublin-based carrier is shelving up to 50 flights daily over the next six weeks due to the over-allocation of pilots' holidays during a relatively busy period.

They have been listed on www.ryanair.com and cover the period up to October 28.

The airline said it was cancelling flights at airports where it ran the busiest schedules, so it would be easier to place passengers on alternative flights.

Mr O'Leary, the airline's chief executive, told a press conference: " Clearly there's a large reputational impact, for which again I apologise. We will try to do better in future.

"In terms of lost profitability, we think it will cost us something of the order of up to about five million euro (4.4 million) over the next six weeks and in terms of the EU261 compensation we think that will be something up to a maximum of 20 million euro, but much depends on how many of the alternative flights our customers take up."

Mr O'Leary said customers whose flights have been cancelled will receive an email by Monday evening.

This will inform them what flights they can transfer to which will be "hopefully on the same or, at worse, the next day".

Under EU law, passengers given less than 14 days notice of a flight cancellation are entitled to claim compensation worth up to 250 euro (221) depending on the timing of alternative flights and if the issue was not beyond the responsibility of the airline, such as extreme weather.

Mr O'Leary said: " If they're not satisfied with the alternative flights offered, they can have a full refund and they will all be entitled to their EU261 compensation entitlements.

"We will not be trying to claim exceptional circumstances.

"This is our mess-up. When we make a mess in Ryanair, we come out with our hands up.

"We try to explain why we've made the mess and we will pay compensation to those passengers who are entitled to compensation, which will be those flights that are cancelled over the next two weeks."

Mr O'Leary insisted the airline is " not short of pilots" as he explained the reason behind the cancellations.

He said: " What we have messed up is the allocation of holidays and trying to over-allocate holiday during September and October while we're still running most of the summer schedule, and taking flight delays because of principally air traffic control and weather disruptions."

Changes imposed by Irish regulators, in line with European law, forced Ryanair to conform staff holidays with the calendar year from January, requiring it to allocate that leave before the end of the year.

Asked if he believed he should lose his job, Mr O'Leary replied: "No, I don't think my head should roll, I need to stay here and fix this."

The routes affected include flights to and from Dublin, London Stansted, Barcelona, Lisbon, Madrid, Milan Bergamo, Porto and Rome Fiumicino.

Alex Neill, a managing director at Which? consumer service, said: "It's vital that passengers who have suffered the nightmare of Ryanair's cancelled flights are now given clear information about what they are entitled to.

"Ryanair must quickly honour its legal duty to arrange alternative flights or provide a full refund, as well as reimbursing reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.

"The airline will know which passengers are entitled to compensation and should pay this out automatically, so they don't have to go through the additional stress of trying to claim what they are rightly owed."
EU Commissioner Phil Hogan has directly challenged British Prime Minister Theresa May to reverse her decision to take the UK out of the European tariff-free area as a central part of Brexit.

Mr Hogan has publicly urged her to use a landmark speech she will make in Florence this Friday to state that Britain will stay inside the EU customs union after Brexit becomes a reality in 2019.

The agriculture commissioner said this is what British business wants from Brexit and it would also go a long way towards resolving Irish Border and trade dilemmas.

"She must reflect very carefully on all of the representations that have been made to her in relation to business and trade with the European Union.

"It is in the interests of the UK business community and employment that we have good trading arrangements with the biggest market at their disposal, which is the other 27 member states of the European Union," he told the Irish Independent.

"To achieve that in a frictionless way, it means we have to have the United Kingdom reconsider their position in respect of the customs union.

"This not only will help trading relationships between the EU and UK, but would also help us enormously in dealing with the issue of a 'soft Brexit' and the Border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

"So, I would hope that common sense and pragmatism will prevail on the part of the British government to remain in the customs union in the future and resolve many of the difficult issues by this policy change."

British diplomats have trailed Friday's speech by Mrs May as an important occasion.

But up to now, she has steadfastly stuck to her statement last October that Britain's break with the EU in March 2019 will be total - including leaving the border-free single market and the internal free trade area known as the customs union.

Experts insist that these moves, and especially Britain quitting the customs union, make a 'hard Border' with Ireland inevitable.

They say it also makes trade tariffs between Ireland and the UK unavoidable.

Mr Hogan has also backed the idea of an EU finance minister to closely co-ordinate economic and finance policies in the 27 member states.

But he said a directly-elected EU president is not wanted right now.

Mr Hogan said a strengthened role for a European finance commissioner, as proposed by EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker last Wednesday, should happen soon, bringing a better response to financial crises.

But he said the other idea pushed again by Mr Juncker, while desirable in the longer term, is not wanted at present.

Mr Hogan's call on Mrs May will intensify pressure from the 'Remain' side in Britain which wants a so-called 'soft Brexit'.

But she is also under pressure from the hardline 'Leave' advocates.

UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has published a plan about Britain after Brexit that included an insistence on leaving the customs union.
'While the UK cabinet seems to have struck an agreement to push for a transition, there remains disagreement over how long it should run.' Stock photo: PA

British business leaders have urged Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a three-year transitional period after Brexit, warning failure to buy time for such an adjustment would jeopardise "our collective prosperity".

The move won support here yesterday from employers' group Ibec, whose CEO, Danny McCoy, said the risk of a "divisive, cliff-edge divorce" must be avoided.

In a letter organised by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), executives from 120 businesses with more than one million employees yesterday warned political leaders of a so-called cliff edge in which Britain leaves the European Union in March 2019 without a new trade deal or enough time for companies to adjust.

Signatories included representatives of Centrica, Zurich Insurance, Johnson & Johnson and Harrods.

"Our businesses need to make decisions now about investment and employment that will affect economic growth and jobs in the future," the letter said. "Continuing uncertainty will adversely affect communities, employees, firms and our nations in the future."

While the UK cabinet seems to have struck an agreement to push for a transition, there remains disagreement over how long it should run.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond has sided with business in suggesting three years, while others such as Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and Trade Secretary Liam Fox are reported to favour a shorter timeframe.

Mrs May is set to update her Brexit strategy on Friday in a speech in Florence, days after Mr Hammond recommended a "status quo" transition. (Bloomberg)
Cash from the old National Pension Reserve Fund could pay for a ramp-up in housebuilding, according to draft proposals drawn up for Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy and circulated to the construction sector for response.

The Government may divert more money from the State's Irish Strategic Investment Fund (Isif) to help pay for much-needed housing as it considers bold new measures to tackle the growing homeless crisis.

A draft document, drawn up by the Department of Housing and seen by the Irish Independent, sets out a greater level of involvement in the sector by Isif, which is managed by the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA).

The tactic is designed to generate more private funding for affordable housing. In 2015, Isif injected 325m into Activate Capital, a 500m fund jointly controlled by US private equity fund KKR. Activate was set up to lend to private developers. Its deals to date include financing the 107m acquisition by Cairn Homes of part of RTE's Donnybrook campus in Dublin which is to be developed as luxury apartments.

Isif's total resources are more than 7bn. The draft Rebuilding Ireland document urges a wider use of the cash portfolio. It says the Government should "encourage [the] use of Isif funding to stimulate more finance house interest in affordable housing".

It also proposes a radical overhaul of the management of State-owned land, suggesting the Government should actively try to match builders and developers to sites it wants housing built on. The document recommends the State's land management role should be upgraded to "target best use and delivery mechanisms", with the land matched to the best "market player".

It is understood the document has been circulated to key industry stakeholders including lenders, builders and developers over the past week for feedback.

A spokesperson for the Department of Housing said the report was being prepared as "part of a Rebuilding Ireland observation" examining "housing delivery input costs". He said it was designed to "consider areas where economies can be achieved" and said "it is the intention therefore that actions arising out of the completed report will assist in achieving a more economic product within the marketplace".

But the draft document paves the way for a major shift in the Government's approach to the housing crisis. It raises the prospect of the abolition or reduction of the vacant site levy and recommends an analysis should be undertaken in to the "effectiveness" of the penalty.

Industry sources said the Government's punitive measures are ineffective and argued that while some owners are hoarding land others are doing so because they "are unable to make a return on their investment".

Last year, the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland released a study showing over half the cost of building a three-bed semi-detached house was soaked up by non-construction factors, including value-added tax, levies, the cost of acquisition and development finance.

The organisation calculated the build cost of the home at 330,493 and pointed out the developer would need to sell the property above that figure to make a profit - putting it beyond the financial reach of a couple on the average industrial wage.

But the Rebuilding Ireland paper dismisses any alteration to the current VAT regime for housing, stating that "what may be a short-term benefit will ultimately only serve to enhance what is already a problem with overpayment for residential land".

At Fine Gael's 'think-in' in Clonmel last week, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar indicated that Nama could be turned into a housing agency, to tackle the undersupply of new homes.
September marks the start of the hedge cutting season and the newly formed Teagasc Invasive Alien Species Working Group is calling on farmers and contractors to watch out for Invasive Alien Plant Species.

The purpose of this newly formed Group is to create awareness and promote relevant information to the agriculture industry.

While we do not have all the answers, there is a lot of information available about what to do, and more importantly, what not to do, according to Catherine Keena, Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist.

With the start of the hedge cutting season in September, Catherine calls on farmers and contractors to watch out for Japanese Knotweed, currently one of the most widespread invasive alien species in Ireland.

The advice is not to cut, mow, strim or disturb this plant.

The optimum time to control Japanese Knotweed with the herbicide glyphosate is when the plant has flowered.

Expand Close Japanese knotweed (right) can wipe out the value of your home in just a few short months. / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Japanese knotweed (right) can wipe out the value of your home in just a few short months.

It is vitally important to seek professional advice and always follow product label requirements before embarking on control as improper treatment can make the problem worse. Control leading to eradication is likely to take several years.

Colette OFlynn from the National Biodiversity Data Centre says Invasive Alien Plant Species are non-native species that have been introduced into Ireland by human intervention with serious consequences for our farms and wildlife as they can cause damage to our environment, economy and human health.

The annual cost to Ireland of invasive and non-native species is estimated at 261 million.

David Devaney from the Open Source Farm based in Teagasc Kildalton spoke of the ongoing efforts to control and eradicate Invasive Alien Plant Species and the importance of devising best practice recommendations for farmers.

All farms are at risk from Invasive Alien Species hence then need for farmers to be able to identify them and to maintain a high level of vigilance. This topic will be covered at the forthcoming GLAS courses. Laura Cassin Teagasc Horticulture Lecturer highlighted the relevance to the horticulture industry.

Within this varied sector, there is a growing requirement for clear and concise guidelines on all aspects of invasive alien species from identification to control through to safe disposal.
THE latest tractor statistics from the FTMTA show a total of 1,535 new tractors were sold during the first eight months of 2017 (up to the end of August), which is around 8pc less than in the corresponding period of 2016. Last month in Ireland, some 129 new tractors were sold, which is up a considerable 46pc from the 88 new units sold in August 2016.

FTMTA Chief Executive Gary Ryan said last months strong performance could be an early indication of confidence returning to the market, with the increase in sales being driven mainly by a resurgent dairy sector.

However, Mr Ryan cautioned that difficult times remain for machinery dealers. The introduction of the split year for motor vehicle registration purposes in 2013 meant there was no surprise that Julys tally of 238 units registered was the second highest level of monthly registrations after January.

Cork continues to be the county with the highest level of registrations during 2017 to date with 174 units, followed by Tipperary on 120. Wexford and Galway show nearly identical levels with 88 and 86. Clare has the fifth highest level of registrations with 75. The most popular power bracket continues to be in the 101-120hp segment, with 34pc of all new tractors. Next is the 121-150hp segment, with 30pc of all new tractors within this power range.

Teleporters, backhoe loaders and wheeled loaders all continue to show improvements in registrations when compared to the first seven months of 2016.

Teleporters are up 216 units versus 209 last year. Backhoe loaders are also up at 34 versus 31. Wheeled loaders have performed strongly with 68 units  a significant increase of 16 units on the same period last year.

Peak

At its peak 10 years ago, the Irish tractor market saw over 5,000 new units sold. Those figures were undoubtedly bloated by the construction sector and when the crash took hold in 2009, annual sales fell off by nearly 60pc. At the time, sourcing credit also became a huge issue. Some of the main lenders to the agri market at the time crashed in style.

Overall there has been marginal recovery and it is now accepted by most industry sources that we will not and should not expect to see figures like 2006 and 2007 again.

The evidence suggests that around 2,000 new tractors per annum, plus or minus 200 units depending on milk and grain prices in a given year, is a realistic market.
Ryanair has come under fire for cancelling up to 50 flights a day for the next six weeks as it moves to reduce a backlog of holidays for staff.

A spokeswoman for the budget airline said Ryanair is preparing for up to 20m in compensation claims, according to Reuters.

In a doorstep interview by Sky News, CEO Michael O'Leary said that Ryanair "sincerely apologise" and that the airline is "working very hard" to finalise the list of flight cancellations.

Final list of cancellations

Mr O'Leary said the final list will represent "less than 2pc of our customers" and it is expected that Ryanair will hold a press conference at 4pm today when this list has been finalised.

Mr O'Leary said the flight cancellations were not as a result of pilots quitting but because "we're giving pilots lots of holidays over the next number of months".

"It is clearly a mess but in context of an operational where we operate more than 2,500 flights a day it is reasonably small," he said.

"That doesn't take away in any way the inconvenience of it to those people whose flights have been cancelled."

Mr O'Leary also said that "everyone is entitled to compensation, everyone will receive full compensation".

Compensation

According to the Commission for Aviation Regulation, if Ryanair cancels a flight, it must offer you the choice of an alternative flight at the earliest opportunity or at a later date of your choice subject to the availability of seats or a full refund of the ticket.

Ryanair can offer a passenger comparable transport to the final destination if no alternative flight with the airline is available.

"When a place is served by several airports, Ryanair may offer a flight to an alternative airport to that originally booked. Ryanair is then obliged to bear the cost of transferring you to the airport that you had booked or to another close-by destination agreed with you," according to a commission statement on Monday.

Furthermore, if your agreed rerouted flight departs later than your original, you must be offered care and assistance free of charge while waiting for your rerouted flight.

"Specifically, reasonable meals and refreshments in relation to the waiting time, hotel accommodation in cases where an overnight stay becomes necessary, transport between the airport and place of accommodation and two telephone calls, emails, faxes or telexes."

Editor in Chief of money.co.uk Hannah Maundrell said that Ryanair "have really messed up".

"If your flight has been cancelled, ask for a refund. You should get your money back within 7 days or given an alternative flight. This should also apply to connecting flights you miss as a result, as long as they were booked together," she said.

"If your flight is delayed by over two hours you should be able to get food and drink covered at the airport and accommodation if you need to stay overnight."

Ms Maundrell said that, generally, if your flight is delayed by over three hours you can claim compensation for the inconvenience. Cancellation amounts vary from 250 to 600 depending on your flight.

"If your other travel plans are impacted, look to your travel insurance for cover. This is when having a decent policy can really come in handy," she added.

'Misleading commercial practices'

Brian Hayes said that Ryanair could be in breach of the EUs Unfair Commercial Practices Directive through misleading commercial practices.

"Ryanairs decision to cancel up to 50 flights per day for the next six weeks is an act of gross negligence in commercial behaviour. Up to 400,000 passengers could be affected," he said.

"I am calling on the CCPC to conduct an investigation into Ryanairs cancellation of flights. There are clear problems with Ryanairs actions under EU consumer protection law. Given the scale of the problem and the number of consumers affected, this issue should be addressed immediately and given priority by the CCPC."

"Ryanair has been the biggest beneficiary of the EUs Single Aviation Market and it has taken full advantage of the single market. Passengers have also benefited from Ryanairs offering through cheap flights. Yet mass cancellations like this cannot go unpunished," he said.

"It needs to be made very clear that there are high standards of consumer protection in the EU that Ryanair needs to adhere to. As Ryanair is headquartered in Ireland, the CCPC also has a responsibility to show that it is enforcing EU consumer law properly."

Read More

Ryanair Q&A: What if my flights are cancelled? Can I get compensation?

Why is Ryanair cancelling flights?

Ryanair is cancelling up to 50 flights a day for the next six weeks as it moves to reduce a backlog of holidays for staff and improve punctuality.

The airline has apologised sincerely to affected customers for what it says is " clearly a mess". But there is widespread outrage at the sudden action.

The Irish Travel Agents Association says it shows utter disdain towards consumers, and the airlines share price has been plummeting.

Read a full explainer on the cancellations here.

How many flights are affected?

The airline says less than 2pc of its schedule will be affected over six weeks.

However, thats a busy schedule. Ryanair's Boeing 737-800s seat up to 189 passengers - filled to 97pc capacity (the airline's load factor for August), that could mean over 9,160 customers are affected every day.

The latest lists of cancelled flights are here.

How do I know if my flights are affected?

Ryanair says it is emailing all customers on cancelled flights (check the email address you used to make the booking). You can also check the airline's website.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled?

Flight cancellation rights are covered under EC Regulation 261/2004.

If your flight is cancelled for any reason, and regardless of when you are notified, your airline must offer you the choice between:

1) Re-routing as soon as possible, subject to availability, free of charge.

2) Re-routing at a later date.

3) A full refund.

How do I arrange a re-routing or refund?

Ryanairs website includes the steps to process your own refunds or bookings here. These should be refunded back to the original source of payment within seven working days.

Am I entitled to care and assistance?

If your flight is cancelled and you choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, then you are entitled to meals and refreshments, hotel accommodation and transfers between the airport and hotel as required. If the airline does not provide these, and you end up paying yourself, keep the receipts - you are entitled to a reimbursement of reasonable expenses.

NB. A five-star hotel may not be a reasonable expense!

Bear in mind that if your flight is cancelled and you choose a full refund, then the airline's obligations to you end there and then.

I'm overseas. My return flight is cancelled. What now?

Ryanair has a duty of care to you (see above). Go to the airport, where it must offer you care and assistance until it can get you home.

If you choose to fly with another airline or get home another way, you don't have the same rights to care and assistance, and may have a hard time claiming compensation (see below).

Im flying within the next six weeks. What do I do?

Ryanair's failure to quickly release a full list of cancellations has been a huge source of frustration for passengers booked (and booking) to travel.

Since it announced the cancellations last Friday, it has continued to sell flights for the next six weeks, and 'autumn getaway' sale fares from 19.99.

A full list is expected today.

Before it is released, any rearrangements you make are at your own expense. Ryanair is not obliged to offer refunds or re-routing for any flights that have not (yet) been confirmed as cancelled.

Am I entitled to compensation?

Financial compensation depends on the flight length and the reason for the cancellation. It ranges from 250 (short-haul, less than 1,500km) to 600 (long-haul, over 3,500km).

Here are three scenarios:

1) If you receive less than seven days notice of cancellation and choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided your new flights depart within one hour of the original departure and land within two hours of the original arrival.

2) If you receive between seven days and two weeks notice of cancellation, provided you choose to be re-routed and are facilitated with a new flight that departs no more than two hours before the original departure time and arrives no more than four hours after the original arrival time, you are NOT entitled to compensation.

3) If you receive notification of two weeks or more, you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided, of course, that the airline offers full re-routing or refund options.

NB. If the air carrier can prove the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, then you may NOT be entitled to compensation. However, you are still due a refund or re-routing.

So far, Ryanair has been apologetic and not invoked any "extraordinary circumstance". The Commission for Aviation Regulation has been speaking with Ryanair on the matter.

How do I claim compensation?

Contact the airline.

If you're not satisfied with its response, then you can escalate by contacting the Commission for Aviation Regulation (01 661-1700; flightrights.ie).

How can my travel insurance help?

In the event of a flight cancellation, the first source of refunds and re-routing should be with your airline. Standard travel insurance policies don't offer much help here.

However, if your policy includes extra cover for "travel disruption" you can be covered for additional transport or accommodation costs up to 1,000pp, according to Ciaran Mulligan, Managing Director of Blue Insurance.

Travel Disruption cover costs extra, and though you can add it retrospectively to a policy, you cannot add it to claim on an event that has already happened.

Also worth noting is the fact that it covers transport and accommodation-related expenses only - i.e. not a host of other potential losses, ranging from lost annual leave or business opportunities to deposits, concert tickets or museum or attraction fees booked in advance online.

If my outbound flight is cancelled, what happens my return flight?

If a given flight isn't subject to disruption, technically you are not entitled to any care or compensation. However, airlines can take a logical view, and have been known to work with passengers to refund or reschedule flights impacted in this way. Check with it for details.

Where can I find more information?

For full details on your air passenger rights in the event of cancellation, delays and more, see flightrights.ie.

Read more:
So far in 2017 Ryanair has lost 140 pilots to Norwegian Air, as passengers continue to be affected by the budget airline's plans to scrap up to 50 flights a day until the end of October.

As the airline battles to fill positions, it is understood that Ryanair has commenced offering pilots a 10,000 "signing-on bonus" the Irish Independent reports.

The airline has blamed a number of factors including changes to staff rosters and air traffic control strikes for the cancellation of dozens of flights for the next six weeks.

However the Irish Independent reports that recruitment problems are also affecting the low-cost airline.

Earlier this month Norwegian Air confirmed it's to open a new pilot base in Dublin later this year, which will initially include around 40 pilots.

Norwegian's Ireland-based unit - Norwegian Air International (NAI) - already has a head office at Dublin Airport, which is headed by Tore Jenssen, and which employs over 80 people.

Read More

At Dublin airport today a dozen Ryanair flights in or out of the airport have been cancelled, something which is being replicated in airports around Europe.

So far today Ryanair's share price has dropped almost 3pc to 16.56.

In total just under 400,000 passengers across Europe could be affected by the cancellations in the coming days and weeks.

Here is a list of cancelled flights today:

"We will cancel 40 to 50 flights daily for the next six weeks, (less than 2pc of our schedule) with a slightly higher number this weekend as we begin to implement these cancellations Ryanairs Kenny Jacobs said.

Editor in Chief of money.co.uk Hannah Maundrell said it is "so disappointing" for Ryanair passengers whose flights have been cancelled, especially at such late notice.

"Ryanair have really messed up here, but you shouldnt be left out of pocket," she said.

"If your flight has been cancelled, ask for a refund. You should get your money back within 7 days or given an alternative flight. This should also apply to connecting flights you miss as a result, as long as they were booked together.

"If your flight is delayed by over two hours you should be able to get food and drink covered at the airport and accommodation if you need to stay overnight."

Ms Maundrell said that, generally, if your flight is delayed by over three hours you can claim compensation for the inconvenience. Cancellation amounts vary from 250 to 600 depending on your flight.

"If your other travel plans are impacted, look to your travel insurance for cover. This is when having a decent policy can really come in handy," she added.
LinkedIn has just unveiled its new 17,650 sq m Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) HQ in Dublin.

The first building that the social networking firm has built outside the USA, the Wilton Place premises is a result of an 85m investment.

The five-storey building has been designed, and undertaken over a two year period, in order to meet the needs of LinkedIns growing workforce in Ireland.

Employee numbers have increased from just three to to 1,200 in a mere seven years, with 80 roles currently available.

A number of Irish companies were involved in the building works, and at the height of the construction, the project saw 360 workers on site every day.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony on Monday morning, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the new development "is a strong endorsement of the Government's economic and job creation strategy because it reaffirms that Ireland is the perfect location for investment".

"When LinkedIn first came to Ireland in 2010 we were in the middle of one of our darkest periods economically," he said.

Read More

"But today, thanks to the sacrifices of the Irish people and the policies pursued by the Government, our economy has recovered, and we are now facing the future with renewed confidence."

Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald TD said that LinkedIn is now one of Irelands leading technology employers, "with employees from 55 nations which reflects the diversity that Dublin has to offer".

Some of the facilities in the new building include a music studio, a high-end gym and fitness studio, a restaurant, coffee bar, an expansive roof terrace, and a games room.

The rooftop terrace provides views across Dublin from The Aviva Stadium to the Spire and the Sugarloaf Mountains to Dublin Bay.

Each of the five floors has a theme - and there is open plan seating throughout the building with no private offices, designed with an aim to encourage interaction.

Head of LinkedIn Ireland Sharon McCooey said that the level of our investment "reflects our commitment to Ireland and the great work our amazing team in Dublin does every day".

Linkedins Dublin operation serves the entire EMEA region supporting customers and members across two continents, with functions including sales, marketing, customer service, finance, analytics and engineering.

Additional features

*The World of Wonder by Lithuanian artist Monika Mitkute represents a world full of individual characters where creativity and ideas are free to move, float and grow.

*The Polaroid Wall gives employees the opportunity to take their photo and display it alongside their colleagues.

*The steel beam was signed by employees before being hoisted into its position on top of the building in August 2016.

*The McKenna-Lawlor room is named after Susan McKenna-Lawlor, an Irish astrophysicist and is professor of experimental physics at Maynooth University.

*The Atrium. The atrium provides the space for all hands meetings and also a range of activity for staff like mental health talks with Roy Keane.

*Failte Wall - This interactive wall at the restaurant entrance aims to record and display the many countries that Linkedin's visitors and employees come from.

*LinkedIn has a full gym and fitness studio, with professional trainers and a range of classes for staff to avail of.
Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe is among a number of senior EU figures who have expressed serious reservations over plans for a tax blitz on the revenues generated by internet giants such as Amazon and Facebook.

Mr Donohoe voiced serious concerns about the proposals at a meeting in Tallinn, Estonia - placing him and other finance ministers on a potential collision course with the so-called EU 'Big Four': France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

The proposal, if adopted, would see the introduction of a tax on the revenues of major technology firms - instead of just their profits.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told colleagues at the meeting on Saturday that the new tax on the digital industry should be introduced by mid-2018 as a matter of fairness.

Ten countries, including the other three EU powerhouses Germany, Italy and Spain, have formally backed the initiative.

But eight others have reservations - with Denmark expressing similarly strong reservations to those voiced by Mr Donohoe.

France has proposed a temporary levy on the revenue generated by multinational companies in the technological sector.

The French government, led by President Emmanuel Macron, is pushing for such a measure because taxing profits is complicated under international rules.

It was accepted at the meeting in the Estonian capital that implementing such a policy could take years.

Ireland will open itself up to accusations that it is trying to protect internet giants who have set up their bases here by opposing the French-led plans.

Senior Government sources last night played down reports that Mr Donohoe was leading the opposition, saying that the proposals need to be carefully scrutinised.

The same sources said Mr Donohoe is of the view that the proposals to target the revenue of technological giants would need to also include the US and other big countries.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Mr Donohoe said that "the very, very considerable difficulties in taxation of this sector" became evident.

But he confirmed that there were "very big questions about how such a measure could be implemented".

According to Bloomberg, Danish Finance Minister Kristian Jensen warned that a European tax could risk driving business abroad, saying he is "sceptical".
The 69th Emmys ceremony, which took place in the early hours of this morning, was, unsurprisingly, choc full of political references.

Donald Trump got a roasting from several quarters while Sean Spicer making an appearance and SNL stars Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon receiving gongs for their portrayals of Trump and Hilary Clinton. Political satire Veep also bagged a gong and one for star Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Here are the biggest shocks, surprises, and stand out moments from the LA ceremony...

Sean Spicer appears on Melissa McCarthy's SNL podium

The former White House press secretary came on stage during Stephen Colbert's opening monologue to take the Mick out of himself and Trump.

Colbert was joking about the size of the audience in reference to Spicer's 'alternative facts' comment with regard to the size of the inauguration crowd.

Spicer said, "This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys period, both in person and around the world."

Colbert added, "Melissa McCarthy, everyone!"

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

A lot of people were unhappy he was given the time of day.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Video of the Day

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Elisabeth Moss swears (twice) during her acceptance speech

Well if you won your first Emmy Award you'd swear too. She had been nominated eight time previously but never managed to get that gong. Last night her role as Offred in The Handmaid's Tale saw her to victory.

Overwhelmed she thanked everyone and swore and then thanked her mother and swore again. "You are brave and strong and smart, and you have taught methat you can be kind and f***ing badass."

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Charlie Brooker wins two awards

The genius that is Brooker won two awards for the stunning San Junipero episode of his Black Mirror series. If you haven't seen it, head to Netflix (the series moved from Channel 4). You're in for a treat.

He called 2017 "too on the nose" to be a Black Mirror episode which, quite frankly, is rather terrifying.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Nicole Kidman wears the face off (slight exaggeration) Alexander Skarsgard when he wins

Your husband is right there woman! Nicole gave Big Little Lies co-star and on-screen hubby Alexander a smacker on the lips when he won as her real life hubby Keith Urban clapped on and everyone thought it was hilarious.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Anna Faris makes first public appearance since marriage split

Everyone's heart broke a little bit when Anna Faris appeared on stage for the first time she she announced her split from husband Chris Pratt after eight years.

Expand Close 69th Primetime Emmy Awards  Show  Los Angeles, California, U.S., 17/09/2017 - Anna Faris (L) and Allison Janney present the award for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp 69th Primetime Emmy Awards  Show  Los Angeles, California, U.S., 17/09/2017 - Anna Faris (L) and Allison Janney present the award for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni

Faris appeared on stage with her Mom co-star Allison Janney. She had skipped the red carpet earlier that evening. Hugs Anna.

Stranger Things won nada

Netflix series Stranger Things may have garnered rave reviews with a second series imminent but it failed to bag a single gong on the night.
I'm not going to defend what George Hook said, and I'm certainly not going to argue that words don't matter. His comments about an alleged rape victim taking some blame for her attack were wrong and they clearly caused a lot of hurt. Hook is aware of this himself. He has accepted he was wrong. He has apologised. The question now is whether he should be silenced. According to reports this weekend, it is likely he will be.

There is an appetite for this these days. Those who like to see people who have wrong opinions banished might feel they are on a roll. John Waters has disappeared from the national scene. Kevin Myers was fired by lunchtime for stupid and wrong comments about Jews and women. Could Hook be next? And who will be next then?

Some are saying there was a valid argument hidden in what Hook was saying - that it's OK to tell women to be careful. The whole 'personal responsibility' thing. But that is not what Hook said. There is a difference between general advice and specific blame after the fact.

If Hook had just said in general that in his opinion women should be careful, but that rape is rape and is done by a rapist, he would still have found many to argue furiously with him. But he probably would not be suspended right now.

The personal responsibility argument is a tricky one. Obviously the only one to blame for rape is the rapist. But hands up, will I urge my daughters to be careful? Probably.

In terms of policing speech, we have to accept that words are powerful, and they can hurt. Words matter, and they can set a tone, and legitimise a way of thinking. But institutionalised discrimination is far worse.

Say you do actually have the courage to report a rape, and say your case does actually make it to court in this, the country with the lowest conviction rate for rape cases following allegation in Europe. Did you know that there is a one-in-three chance that you will be quizzed on your sexual history?

And I don't mean the circumstances that led to your attack and your actions around your rape. That will probably come into it no matter what. I mean that in 30pc of rape cases in Ireland the prosecution will make a successful application to the judge to bring the victim's previous sexual behaviour into the case.

Technically the idea is that it may be relevant in terms of the victim's credibility. In practice, a Section 3 application, as it is known, is often used to establish promiscuity, and even, in some cases, to establish whether women use birth control.

Here's one example from a recent article in the Irish Times. A girl who was raped in a field when she was 14, by 26-year-old Martin Stokes, was cross-examined for two and half days during Stokes's trial. Stokes claimed she was a willing partner. The victim was quizzed on text messages she sent to friends and Facebook posts.

Read More

Last year Faisal Ellahi was convicted of raping a young woman with Down syndrome. Ellahi sought permission to question the victim about whether she had kissed any boys. Thankfully in that case the judge refused. Ellahi had also initially claimed his victim was a willing participant.

A 76-year-old man on the radio has a certain amount of power. But the legal system has far, far more power in underpinning what you might call the rape culture and in literally legitimising certain modes of thinking.

If Hook was found to be discriminating or mistreating women in his workplace, it would be a different matter entirely. But right now people want him to be fired for expressing an opinion, however wrong.

There are two strange aspects of the Hook case. One is that there was a rush to connect Hook's comments to a wider malaise in Newstalk. It is, we are told, a cold house for women. And somehow the suggestion is that because it is a boys' club, comments like Hook's would be viewed as more acceptable.

Toxic masculinity unchecked in other words. Which is to suggest that Shane Coleman, Paul Williams, Pat Kenny, Sean Moncrieff, Ivan Yates, Chris Donoghue and others are all complicit in some kind of echo chamber where it's OK to blame women for rape. This is simply not true. And it smacks of people taking a different gripe they have about Newstalk and attaching it to the lightning rod that is Hook.

Secondly, we are told that Hook must be silenced because the opinion that he expressed is shared by too many other men out there. But it's hard to see how silencing Hook helps to deal with that. If we want to deal with this view, which Hook served to legitimise, then we need to publicly re-educate Hook, and hopefully more with him. He needs to be challenged and confronted on his views. We need to have an argument, as old-fashioned as that sounds. I'm with Kitty Holland on this. Making a martyr of Hook is not going to help anyone's cause here.

Let me make it clear again. None of this is in any way to support Hook's comments. But silence is not the answer. Surely we have learned that by now in this country. Silence is never the answer.

Another aspect of this discussion has been the tarring of all dissenting voices as being deliberate controversialists who portray themselves as victims and spew nasty bile. Dissenting voices may often be simply wrong. But silencing dissent, silencing those who provoke us to think twice, is a sinister road to go down. And many of us could fall foul of it at some stage, depending on who decides what opinions merit banishment.

In some ways, this last week has been useful. It has caused somewhat of a conversation about some people's attitudes. It has caused men to think a bit more, to examine our unconscious biases, to ask women a bit more about their feelings on this, to be more aware not just of the hurt we can cause when we discuss sexual violence.

It has also probably made many of us more aware of the prevalence of sexual violence here.

I actually think there is a little more empathy around the country after last week. I'm with Louise O'Neill on this: "I think the furore is a good thing in one way as it's a sign that cultural values are shifting. Hopefully?" In fact this last week has probably helped cultural values to shift a bit more.

Sometimes it's painful to talk. But it's always good to talk. Silence is never the answer.

And maybe if Hook survives, he should do a few shows on how the legal system treats victims of sexual violence.
The head of human resources at An Garda Siochana has voiced serious concern about the access to a special unit of lawyers and retired gardai that is being provided to former Garda commissioners Noirin O'Sullivan and Martin Callinan.

It has emerged that Ms O'Sullivan is continuing to avail of services provided by the internal unit in Garda Headquarters which was set up to liaise with the Disclosures Tribunal. The tribunal, led by Mr Justice Peter Charleton, resumes its hearings today into the alleged smear campaigns against Garda whistleblowers.

Ms O'Sullivan and Mr Callinan - who both resigned under clouds of controversy - are accused of being complicit in the smear campaign. But the Irish Independent can reveal that since Ms O'Sullivan's departure last week, head of HR John Barrett has expressed deep disquiet over the continued access to the unit.

Mr Barrett has told colleagues he intends to formally express his concerns to Judge Charleton over the access. The Dail previously heard claims Ms O'Sullivan appointed some of her close friends to the unit - some of them retired gardai.

Central to Mr Barrett's concerns is that serving members of the force who are key witnesses at the tribunal do not have the same access to legal services as Ms O'Sullivan and Mr Callinan. These include Sergeant Maurice McCabe, Superintendent David Taylor and Garda Keith Harrison.

Mr Harrison, who is due to appear in front of the tribunal today, has alleged he was subjected to bullying and harassment after arresting a colleague in Athlone for suspected drink driving.

It's understood Mr Harrison has also registered his concern with the tribunal about the make-up and access to the internal unit. Among those appointed to the unit are retired assistant commissioner Mick O'Sullivan and former chief superintendent Brendan Mangan.

The unit is headed up by Detective Supt Tony Howard, who was involved in investigating Mr Taylor over an unrelated issue. Mr Howard is assisted by Sgt Sinead Greene. Both officers previously reported to Ms O'Sullivan's husband, Detective Chief Supt Jim McGowan.
A 23-year-old Dublin man has been remanded in custody following his extradition from the UK on knife possession and motor theft related charges.

Nathan Coakley, aka Nathan Hutch, from Buckingham Street Upper in the inner city's north side will face his next hearing tomorrow.

Four members of the Garda Armed Support Unit holding machine guns were on duty at the courtroom door during his brief hearing before Judge Grainne Malone at a special late sitting of Dublin District Court tonight.

He faces three charges: unlawful use of a stolen motor vehicle, unlawful possession of a knife as a weapon and possession of stolen keys at Ringsend Road, Dublin 4 on December 24, 2015.

Garda Bryan Hunt told Judge Grainne Malone that the accused was arrested at 5.35pm at Dublin Airport. He was travelling with a passport in the name of Nathan Hutch, the court heard.

Garda Hunt, who is attached to Irishtown Garda station, told the court the 23-year-old man was arrested on foot of district court warrants issued on June 6 last.

He was transported to Ballymun Garda station where at 6.34pm he was charged with the three offences.

Garda Hunt said Mr Coakley was cautioned after each charge and made no reply. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed trial on indictment in relation to all matters, Garda Hunt said.

This means the case will be sent forward to a higher court.

The garda said the purpose of the remand was to await preparation of a book of evidence but it will not be ready at the next hearing.

Defence solicitor Simon Fleming said there was no application for bail and there was consent his client being remanded in custody to appear at Cloverhill District Court on Tuesday.

Judge Malone noted the DPPs direction in the case and said that the State have six weeks to complete the book of evidence.

Garda Hunt said he has been informed it will be ready in two weeks.

There was an application for legal aid and Mr Coakley spoke up to confirm he wanted Mr Fleming to represent him. A statement of his means had also been furnished to the court.

Garda Hunt said Mr Coakley was extradited from the UK on an European Arrest Warrant. He also said the accused had consented to the extradition.

Another warrant is to be executed tomorrow, the court also heard.

The garda said the accused had been held in custody for six days however Mr Coakley spoke up to say a week and two days.

Judge Malone granted legal aid and remanded him in custody pending his next hearing tomorrow.

Dressed in a grey sweater, black trousers and shoes and a black body-warmer, Mr Coakley sat on the defendants bench and chatted quietly to his mother who was at the front row of the public gallery for a couple of minutes before the remand warrant was ready and he was brought out of the courtroom.
A youth, who denies sexually assaulting a young girl after she fell asleep, will face trial in December.

The 18-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to sexual assault of the girl, then aged 14, at an apartment in north Dublin on a date last year.

The youth was aged 17, a juvenile, at the time of the alleged incident and was due to go on trial earlier this month at the Dublin Childrens Court.

However, Judge John OConnor acceded to a request by the State to vacate the trial date on the grounds that the complainant and two other witnesses wish to give evidence via video-link, a facility which has not been installed at the Childrens Court building in Smithfield in Dublin city-centre.

The case was re-listed again for mention and a new date for the hearing was set.

The Childrens Court will hear the trial at the Criminal Courts of Justice building in December instead.

The teenager had been arrested in a midlands town and charged in April.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed that the case could be dealt with at Childrens Court level and not in the Circuit Court, which can impose lengthier sentences.

Detective Garda Michael Harkin had said earlier that it was alleged the girls sister was in a relationship with a member of the youths family. It was alleged the girl fell asleep on a couch in the apartment and the youth attempted to penetrate her digitally but she woke up and pushed him away.

It was reported immediately to gardai and the girl was taken to a sexual assault treatment unit for an examination. The court heard she has been left very traumatised.

Judge O'Connor has accepted jurisdiction for the case to remain in the juvenile court.
By the end of this decade, it is expected that in the region of 5,000-plus higher education students from Ireland will undertake a study visit or traineeship to one of the other 32 EU/EEA countries or to a country outside of Europe, every year.

What is also pretty certain is that in the region of more than 10,000 students will travel in this direction attracted by the English language, the international reputation of the higher education system, the friendly welcome and the fact that Ireland is generally regarded a safe place to live.

That imbalance can be a cause of concern to higher education institutions who do not receive any funding for enrolling more students than they send out. However, the wider economy benefits significantly from incoming Erasmus+ students.

Higher education students participating in Erasmus+, generally stay in their host country for six to nine months, which allows plenty of time for family and friends to visit.

A survey conducted in 2016 by the Erasmus+ National Agency at the Higher Education Authority (HEA) found that 80pc of these students received at least one visitor, with the overall average being 4.3 visitors per person. The duration of stay ranges from three to 15 days, averaging at seven.

Based on 2016 figures of 7,200 incoming students, this would have generated nearly 25,000 visitors, worth almost 14m to the economy.

Gerry O'Sullivan, head of the HEA International Office said: "International education partnerships drive tourism numbers, the benefits of which are felt nationwide with 36pc of students located in Dublin, 18pc in the rest of Leinster, 33pc in Munster and 12pc in Connacht/Ulster."

Dublin is the favourite destination, reflecting the most used point of entry to the country, followed by Galway, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, Limerick, Belfast and Derry, with Wicklow, Clare, Waterford and Donegal not far behind.

Five countries supply nearly 80pc of visitors: France 38pc, Germany 17pc, Spain 12pc, Italy 8pc and The Netherlands 4pc.

This trend is set to continue. The number of incoming students has increased significantly over the past seven years. In 2007/2008 Ireland welcomed 4,515 students from European higher education institutions. By 2015/16, it was 7,219, and it is likely to exceed 10,000 by 2020, with visitor numbers of the order of 35,000 to 40,000, per year, projected.

In 2016, the Government's International Education strategy, "Irish Educated, Globally Connected" estimated that the economic value of international education activity, including the English language sector, to Ireland was worth 1.6bn.
Significant funding is available for collaborative work between higher education and/or the business/voluntary sectors. This year, colleges in Ireland are sharing nearly 11m for such collaborations.

Waterford IT and NUI Galway were recently awarded almost 1m each for Erasmus+ Knowledge Alliances, beating off competition from nearly 170 other applications to become two of 20 approved this year. Knowledge alliances are transnational and result-driven activities between higher education institutions and businesses.

WIT will lead a project entitled "Enabling SMEs to gain competitive advantage from the use of High Performance Computing", while NUIG will receive support for a project called "Startup skills for Researchers and Innovators in Entrepreneurship Development".

Previous recipients are DIT for "HubLinked: Strengthening Europe's Software Innovation Capacity" and Louth County Enterprise Board for its project "SME and Higher Education Institutes in Innovation Partnerships".

Under Key Action 2, the EU encourages emerging countries to expand the capacity of their higher education systems. In 2017, UCD, UCC, DCU, TCD, GMIT and DIT will share their expertise as part of collaborative bids worth more than 8m for projects in Jordan, India, Georgia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Egypt and Indonesia. Under the EU Jean Monnet Action, UL, UCC, and TCD were awarded a total of nearly 115,000 to promote excellence in teaching and research in the field of EU studies.

While applications relating to Knowledge Alliances and Capacity Building measures are made directly to the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency in Brussels, submissions for Strategic Partnerships are made directly to the HEA. Such projects can be from within higher education or across the education sectors with partners drawn from at least three E+ countries.

Since 2014, over 3m has been allocated to UCC, DCU, TCD, NUIM, IT Sligo and IT Tralee. Projects supported cover a broad spectrum, including gifted youth, digital humanities, medical device design, language learning and bullying. The D-days for these actions will be on various dates in February and March 2018.
When Ben Finnegan went to Salamanca for his Erasmus year, learning about Spanish culture would have been part of the plan, but he also flipped things around and made sure to immerse the famous university city in Irish heritage.

Turning iconic buildings around the world green for St Patrick's Day had become a fashion and Ben took it upon himself to ensure that the local main square, the Plaza Mayor, joined the international experience.

But, Ben, who had gone on Erasmus as part of a BA International Business and Spanish degree in Maynooth University, was met with a resounding "no" everywhere, including from Irish politicians who told him it was a "great idea, but maybe next year".

He persisted. Then, four days before St Patrick's Day, Ben received a call from the office of the Mayor of Salamanca, Snr Alfonso Fernandez Manueco, who had seen a message Ben had sent to an old blog page of his, and he thought it was a fantastic idea.

And so Salamanca's town hall turned Irish for the day and every St Patrick's Day since.

The congratulations rolled in from everywhere for the enterprising student, including President Michael D Higgins and then-Tourism Minister Leo Varadkar, who publicly thanked Ben in the Dail. Ben says a couple of weeks after the event, he welcomed the Irish Ambassador to Spain to Salamanca "and had the pleasure of introducing him to the Mayor!"

Ben credits his Salamanca experience with giving him the confidence to run for student union president in Maynooth University. After two years in that role, and a year in marketing, it is perhaps unsurprising that he is now working in the International Office at Mary Immaculate College, Limerick. His role involves facilitating exchange agreements, establishing institutional linkages and coordinating externally funded international projects and programmes.

"I absolutely love it and believe that this is the career path that I want to take long-term. I firmly believe that I would not be in my current position had I not decided to do an Erasmus study year abroad."

Ben says apart from the "fantastic academic developments I made by studying in a different language I would never have had the confidence or skills to get to where I am right now without spending the year in Salamanca. It truly was one of the best and most significant decisions of my life to date!

He says the experience gave him the confidence "to never give up on an idea or project that you believe in, no matter how many obstacles that might be presented."
Mary Burton-Quinn was in her 50s when she went on her Erasmus year.

Having reared her three daughters, the Clonakilty woman had enrolled in University College Cork (UCC), in 2010, as a mature student.

"I little realised the journey it would take me on. What started off as a three-year BA ended up as a four-year BA International degree as I decided to take up the opportunity to do an Erasmus year abroad."

Mary headed to Alicante, Spain "armed with only a few words of spoken Spanish and a very large dictionary".

It was a fast learning curve. "There were five more young students from UCC and, together, we faced both the challenge and the hilarity of going to daily lectures where we understood not a word. But it got easier and 'Google translate' became our best friend."

The turning point for Mary came on St Patrick's Day when she decided to introduce some Irish culture to the city. She made Irish coffees for some Cuban friends in a hostel where she used the internet for study.

"The staff spoke little or no English and I was very reticent about using the little Spanish I had learnt. Many Irish coffees later I realised I had lost my inhibitions and had begun to converse in Spanish, and all those hours of learning vocabulary, grammar and translations finally started to pay off.

"After that, there was no going back and I used every opportunity to use my bad Spanish."

Two years later, and after graduating, Mary began working in the International Office in Cork IT, dealing with both incoming and outgoing Erasmus students.

"I have come full circle, from being an Erasmus student to managing Erasmus+ students, and I am forever grateful to the Erasmus programme for helping me to make this possible," she says.
Mairead McGuinness, MEP and Vice President of the European Parliament, with children from Our Lady of Victories Boys NS, Ballymun at the Erasmus Learning Area at the National Botanic Gardens, a horticultural learning space mainly targeted at primary school children. It is a joint-venture between the Erasmus+ National Agency at the HEA and the Office of Public Works.

Adult education and vocational education and training (VET) organisations in Ireland can take part in Erasmus+ in several ways. They can send their staff for training or job shadowing in another country, where they can gain first-hand knowledge of other European education systems, experience how these systems meet shared professional challenges, and hone their own competences as educators.

Apprentices and vocational trainees in VET organisations can also do work placements in other countries. These placements give the trainees direct experience of the workplace and help relate it to their studies. Time spent in placements helps to increase the trainees' self-confidence, intercultural skills and employability prospects.

These projects are called 'Key Action 1' or 'Mobility' projects, because the participants literally move to another institution outside their own country. Some VET organisations have built trainee work placements so comprehensively into the daily life of their organisation that they hold a 'Mobility Charter'. The Charter allows them to strategically plan their placements over a number of years, and use more streamlined application and reporting forms. Galway Technical Institute, profiled in this supplement, is a Charter holder and sends dozens of trainees on placements each year.

A different way to get involved is through a 'Strategic Partnership' with other relevant organisations. To take part, the VET or adult education organisation identifies a key area they want to address with European partners, such as developing a joint education course or a new technology. These projects can be small or large scale, and involve organisations from the same or different sectors. For example, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland worked with a training organisation in Norway and a nursing school in Belgium to develop an online training course for family carers of loved ones with dementia. The result, 'Home Based Care - Home Based Education' has been shortlisted in the Learning Technologies Awards 2017.

Another option is to become a partner in a project led by an organisation in another country. This can be a good first step for organisations nervous about taking on the administration of an entire project!

Adult education professionals can also get actively involved with their colleagues in Europe through EPALE, an online platform that hosts blogs, resources and discussion groups about Adult Learning in Europe. EPALE is also a great place to find partner organisations to work with on common issues, or explore developing an Erasmus+ project.
The Government is continuing to stall on setting up a proper investigation of nursing home top-up charges, despite indications that the elderly may be squeezed for an additional 17m a year in 'extras'.

The Department of Health yesterday refused to commit to surveying individual nursing homes on how much they are charging in additional fees to Fair Deal residents and what services they are delivering for these levies.

It has been left to Age Action and the media to probe the extent of the unpopular charges which can be as high as 16,900 a year in out-of-pocket extras for some residents.

A spokeswoman for Older People Minister Jim Daly repeated earlier responses on the controversy, saying a project team will "identify and examine" the key issues on the additional charges and analyse the implications.

However, this will not involve any survey of nursing homes, although it would take officials a few days to find out the information from homes which are being paid 1bn by the taxpayer under the Fair Deal scheme.

Once this project team has finished its work, an interdepartmental group will then consider the issue again and report back to Mr Daly.

He will then confirm the "next steps", which may include research.

However, the officials, for now, will not conduct any survey to find out what the level of charges are, or quiz individual nursing homes. This means they will be reaching decisions without any crucial evidence - reducing the chance of any urgent action being taken.

An undercover investigation by the 'Sunday Independent', which looked at charges by 330 private nursing homes, found more than two-thirds were imposing additional charges that ranged from 1 a day to as high as 325 a week.

The services provided for the extra charges vary between nursing homes and are inconsistent. They can include a levy for social activities, such as games, outings and arts and crafts. Some include a doctor service charge even if the resident has a medical card.

The most expensive charge is levied by Leeson Park nursing home in Dublin 6, where it ranges from 125 a week for a resident in a shared room to 325 for a resident in a single room.

Fee

In response, the Silver Stream Group, which operates the nursing home, said it provided "premium" nursing care.

All nursing home residents agree in advance the fee structure depending on the care options and accommodation requirements. The level of fees had not increased since 2008, it said.

Justin Moran of Age Action warned that the Government had shown very little movement on the issue of additional charges, despite it now being months since the practice was first highlighted.

"You need evidence to make the right decisions," he said.

Department officials should be finding out themselves what each nursing home is charging and also importantly what the resident is getting for these payments, he added.

Nursing Homes Ireland, which represents private nursing homes, has denied that the charges are "hidden".

The resident's contract "detailing charges for services is presented prior to or on their admission to the home", said the organisation's chief executive Tadhg Daly.

It wants the department to speed up the overdue review of the cost of care under the Fair Deal scheme.

About 23,000 people are availing of the Fair Deal scheme.
A garda has been hailed a hero after helping to prevent a late-night tragedy from taking place in the north-west.

Garda Padraic Deery dived into the Garavogue river in Sligo after a woman was seen being swept a few hundred metres by fast tides.

Gda Deery managed to reach the woman and with the assistance of his colleague, Garda TJ Gallagher, successfully brought her to safety.

A number of nightclub bouncers were also involved in the rescue by sending life rings into the water, which was fast flowing due to earlier rain. Gda Gallagher was then later involved in another rescue involving a separate male.

It's the third time in a matter of weeks gardai in Sligo have saved lives at the river.

Bravery

Chief Superintendent Michael Clancy commended gardai for their bravery and said their actions no doubt resulted in lives being saved.

Ray Wims, north-western executive member of the Garda Representative Association (GRA), said the rescue operations illustrated the type of work front-line officers did on a daily basis.

"Thankfully, no loss of life occurred during these rescue operations," Garda Wims told the Irish Independent.

"We are very proud of Gda Deery and Gda Gallagher. It is indicative of their commitment to their jobs and their communities. The conditions were particularly dangerous as there had been a lot of heavy rain."

A number of potential tragedies at the Garavogue river were averted last month due to the actions of gardai and local people. If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article please contact the Samaritans on 116123 for support or visit www.samaritans.org. Pieta House can be contacted on 1800 247 247.
A female member of the Cabinet says broadcaster George Hook's controversial comments about rape are representative of a "deeply embedded culture of misogyny, sexism, double standards and victim blaming".

In a hard-hitting intervention, Higher Education Minister Mary Mitchell O'Connor said Irish society often excuses men charged with rape or sexual assault in cases where alcohol has been consumed.

The Dun Laoghaire TD told the Irish Independent it was essential the "realities around consent" were made "crystal clear" to future generations.

"George Hook's comments were a disgrace. There is no simpler way to say it. Sadly they are representative of a deeply embedded culture in Ireland of misogyny, of sexism, of double standards and of victim blaming," Ms Mitchell O'Connor said last night.

"While we have to welcome his apology, we also have to highlight that every time a statement like this is made it gives silent assent to others who share the same backward, insulting view."

The minister hit out at what she says is a willingness to absolve men who carried out such crimes if they take place after a night out.

Expand Close George Hook. Photo: Damien Eagers / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp George Hook. Photo: Damien Eagers

"We need to challenge those who are privileged enough to have a voice to use their platform more responsibly; particularly when they use that voice to belittle victims or distort facts.

"We live in a society where quite often if a man is charged with rape or sexual assault we hear that he acted 'out of character' as he had been drinking," she said.

"While women who are victims of these acts are blamed because they had been drinking. Think about that?

"The man is absolved of blame for his act, the woman is shamed. It is a shameful double standard.

"In short, rape is never the victim's fault. And we have work to do to ensure that the concept and realities of consent are crystal clear to the next generation."

Her comments came as Newstalk sources told this newspaper that it was "highly unlikely" Mr Hook would return to his presenting role following his suspension.

It has emerged that a number of other high-profile presenters at the station were part of the almost 20 people who signed a letter calling on Mr Hook to be taken off the air.

Several commercial advertisers have also confirmed they will not take out advertisements during the radio slot if Mr Hook is the presenter.

The Dalata Hotel Group also withdrew its sponsorship from Newstalk as it could not "support any radio station that allows inappropriate and hurtful comments to be made".

The sponsorship for 'High Noon' was believed to be worth up to 250,000. Other firms, such as Tesco, have followed suit.

It was announced on Friday that Mr Hook had been suspended by Newstalk as the fallout from his controversial on-air comments about a rape case in the UK continued.

Mr Hook's remarks on his show on September 8 were made while he discussed the case of a woman (19), who alleges she was raped by a former member of the British swim team.

A number of complaints have been made to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland regarding Mr Hook's comments, including one which was received from the Women's Council of Ireland.
Gardai investigate the shooting of a man in his twenties at a shopping centre car park near Citywest

Gardai investigate the shooting of a man in his twenties at a shopping centre car park near Citywest

A man killed in a shooting in Dublin on Monday evening received a number of gunshot wounds in the attack.

The incident occurred at a car-park at Fortunestown Lane, Tallaght, Dublin 24, close to Citywest.

The man, aged in his late twenties, was shot a number of times at approximately 9.20pm.

It is understood he was sitting in a car at the time of the attack.

Expand Close Gardai investigate the shooting of a man in his twenties at a shopping centre car park near Citywest / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Gardai investigate the shooting of a man in his twenties at a shopping centre car park near Citywest

The man received medical assistance at the scene but was pronounced dead a short time later, gardai confirmed.

The victim of tonight's fatal gun attack is believed to be from Lucan.

He had a number of convictions and appeared in court for minor drug offences in recent months.

Gardai are examining if the shooting is connected to the shooting of Darragh Nugent (36) last week in Wheatfield Avenue, Clondalkin.

The father of three was gunned down outside his home on the avenue exactly seven days ago.

The west Dublin feud, which is not linked to the ongoing Hutch/Kinahan feud, has already claimed the lives of three people, including Nugent.

The first murder in this deadly feud was that of innocent Dean Johnson (21) in August 2013.

Tragic Mr Johnson was not involved in crime and it quickly emerged the intended target of his murder was Clondalkin criminal James 'Nelly' Walsh, who escaped unharmed in the shocking incident. Walsh was a close associate of Nugent.

Within five days, cartel-linked criminal Jason 'Jay' Carroll (39) was shot dead at his home at Cherrywood Drive in Clondalkin.

Gardai in Tallaght are now investigating the incident and emergency services are at the scene.

Local Sinn Fein councillor Louise Dunne lives close by to where the shooting took place and said it's generally a busy area.

"I thought I did hear shots but that might also have been fireworks," she said.

"Then I heard the guards and knew something bad had happened.

"It does be quite busy around the shopping centre late at night. It's absolutely shocking," she added.

Another local described it as "disgraceful" saying; "It's getting out of hand... where is it going to end?"

Investigating Gardai are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information, particularly those who may have been in the vicinity of Fortunestown Lane Tallaght to contact the incident room at Tallaght Garda Station on 01-666 6000, The Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111 or any Garda Station.
Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

The family of Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa have said they "waited four years for today to happen."

The 21-year-old has been acquitted of all charges at an Egyptian court today.

He had been held in a Cairo jail since 2013.

Speaking outside their family home in Firhouse, Imbrahim's sisters Fatima, Omaima, Somaia and Khadija expressed their "relief" that their brother has finally been declared innocent.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

"It's exciting because he can now live a normal life. He can eat from a plate with a normal spoon, he can use a proper bathroom, he can drink clean water, all these basic things," said Fatima.

"When you're in prison you can't use metal, only plastic. Being in prison, it's the hardest thing. Four years of your life in prison, to to be proven innocent. For the last four years he's been derived of his basic human necessities, and for him to come back...it's going to be great," Somaia said.

Very emotional scenes here in Firhouse this afternoon following news of Ibrahim's acquittal #halawa pic.twitter.com/zdnYSsjq6Y  Stephanie Grogan (@StephGrogan3) September 18, 2017

The family, who have not yet spoken to Ibrahim since this afternoon's verdict, also shared a message with the 21-year-old.

"Come home, we're waiting for four years for this to happen... you owe use big time"," Omaima joked.

Ibrahim Halawa was arrested along with hundreds of other individuals during peaceful protests against the ousting of former president Mohamed Morsi.

The trial process had been beset by more than 30 adjournments but a verdict was finally delivered today.

Expand Close Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Speaking on RTE Radio, Declan Walsh, Cairo bureau chief of the New York Times, said Ibrahim was jumping for joy and "absolutely delighted" with the result.

Somaia Halawa, Ibrahim's sister, watched the verdict being delivered with her family in Dublin and said that today's result has surpassed all their expectations.

"We weren't expecting it to get an innocent verdict.. Ibrahim always wished for it but finally he got it. Even in all his letters he said I know I haven't done anything, I know I should be proven innocent," she told Independent.ie earlier in the day.

But the family did not think it was plausible that an innocent verdict could be handed down "after having [a person] in prison for four years and then saying he has been proven innocent" Somaia said.

When her brother's name was called and the verdict read out the family erupted into "screaming and crying".

She said that the family do not know yet when their brother will be released from custody and brought home to Ireland but they are hopeful his return could be as early as the weekend.

"It really depends on process and how fast it is. I'm sure the embassy will issue passport as soon as possible," Somaia said.

Independent.ie understands that his release from prison could take between three and five says and Mr Halawa's travel status also needs to be addressed before he is free to return home.

After four years of fighting to clear Ibrahim's name the family are looking forward to welcoming home with the help of his supporters.

"I think I would like to have all the people who supported him to come to the airport for him to see how many amazing people he had behind him.. to see how much support he had," she said.

Somaia said there was a long list of people her family were grateful to and added that her family were heartened to receive a personal call from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on Sunday night.

Nusayba Halawa, another of Ibrahim's sisters, told RTE Radio One: "We couldn't believe it... after all that suffering it's nearly coming to the end."

"We weren't expecting it," she added,

"We just heard the news a few minutes ago but we hope it is going to be soon [when he is released] and we hope he is going to be home very soon. I think that he has suffered a lot... I hope that he will be home soon," she said.

"Also I have to mention as well that there is a lot of people we met visiting Ibrahim and we had a lot of times with them and I felt really sorry for them because a lot of them got convicted. So I feel sorry for these people as well that they have to still suffer all that suffering that we suffered for four years."

Ibrahim's mother is due to undergo surgery tomorrow and the family were hoping that her spirits would be high after hearing some good news about her son.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he wholeheartedly welcomed the conclusion to the "extraordinarily protracted case" case.

Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity."

After hearing the result Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said: On behalf of the Government and on my own behalf I welcome the news from Cairo that Ibrahim Halwa has been acquitted.

"This is the good news we had been hoping for. Ibrahim Halawas name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

"My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them."

He said the Governments priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that they can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible.

"We are conscious that there will be some practical procedures and formalities to be gone through before Ibrahim will be able to fly back to Dublin, but my Department and our Embassy team will be assisting and supporting Ibrahim and his family to seek to ensure he gets home as soon as possible.

President Michael D Higgins has also issued a statement welcoming the verdict.

As President of Ireland I welcome the news that Ibrahim Halawa and his three sisters have today been acquitted of all charges brought against him, and them, in what has been a prolonged, distressing and draining experience," he said.

"Todays decision brings to an end a long ordeal that Ibrahim, his family, friends and legal team have been put through.

"I am sure Ibrahims family are looking forward to the moment that Ibrahim will return to his home and loved ones," he said.

"I am sure they will have been sustained by the support of all those who have campaigned for his release over the last four years.

"It is appropriate, also, to acknowledge at this time the important efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the staff at Irelands embassy in Cairo.

Children's Minister Katherine Zappone has said she will work with her colleagues to ensure there are supports put in place.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar spoke by phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi when the last trial was adjourned three weeks ago.

During the 25-minute phone call, the Taoiseach expressed his disappointment.

He made clear to Mr Al-Sisi that his priority was to secure the return of Mr Halawa to Ireland as soon as possible.

In a statement today Amnesty Internation said "some semblance of justice has been done".

"Nothing can ever excuse the horrific ordeal that Ibrahim has endured. He spent more than four years locked up in harrowing conditions in in various different Egyptian prison cells, without access to proper medical care," Colm OGorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland said.

"He was unlawfully detained with no credible evidence to support the charges laid against him. In fact, not one shred of evidence was presented to the court against Ibrahim at any stage during this four year farcical mass trial process which was adjourned more than 30 times."

Today, at last, Ibrahims nightmare is over. He must now be immediately released and allowed to return home to Ireland. Our expectation is that the Irish Government will continue to work on his behalf and ensure his prompt return home to his family and life here in Ireland."

Human right's group Reprieve also welcomed the verdict saying it was long overdue:
Police were called at 10am and sealed off the area surrounding his mother's flat. Stock image

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of a toddler in Northern Ireland.

Three-year-old Kayden McLaughlin was discovered dead in bed in his Columbcille Court home in the Bogside yesterday morning.

Police were called at 10am and sealed off the area surrounding his mother's flat as investigations began into what caused the death of the child.

Officers could be seen outside the house yesterday afternoon.

Devastated friends and family gathered at the police cordon, many in tears, as news of the young boy's death filtered through the community.

Kayden's uncle, Michael McLaughlin, said the family was numb following the death of the youngster.

"We are not sure what happened," he said.

"Kayden was a lively wee fella.

"He loved life.

"He was a character.

"He played about, he was always climbing.

"Our family are very upset.

"We are just numb at the moment."

Sinn Fein Assembly member Karen Mullan said that the close-knit community in the Bogside was distraught over the news.

"This is just shocking, particularly in terms of the little boy's age," she said.

"I know there is no more information about what happened at this stage but the community down there will be distraught.

"It is just so tragic.

"There would be a lot of families who live in there and have lived there for years.

"It is a very close-knit community.

"It is just shocking to wake up to this tragic news this morning.

"It's awful, it's so scary. My heart and my sympathy goes out to all the family."

A spokesman for the PSNI said that a post mortem examination will be carried out.

"Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of a young child in the Bogside area of Derry/Londonderry on Sunday morning," they said.

"Police received the report shortly after 10am.

"A post mortem examination will take place to determine the cause of death.

"There are no further details available at this time."
Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa has been acquitted of all charges at an Egyptian court.

The 21-year-old has been held in a Cairo jail since 2013.

He was arrested along with hundreds of other individuals during peaceful protests against the ousting of former president Mohamed Morsi.

The trial process had been beset by more than 30 adjournments but a verdict was finally delivered today.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Declan Walsh, Cairo bureau chief of the New York Times, said: "Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa and his three sisters have been acquitted of all charges by an anti-terrorism court outside Cairo."

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Very emotional scenes here in Firhouse this afternoon following news of Ibrahim's acquittal #halawa pic.twitter.com/zdnYSsjq6Y  Stephanie Grogan (@StephGrogan3) September 18, 2017

Speaking on RTE Radio Mr Walsh said Ibrahim was jumping for joy and "absolutely delighted" with the result.

Somaia Halawa, Ibrahim's sister, watched the verdict being delivered with her family in Dublin and said that today's result has surpassed all their expectations.

"We weren't expecting it to get an innocent verdict.. Ibrahim always wished for it but finally he got it. Even in all his letters he said I know I haven't done anything, I know I should be proven innocent," she told Independent.ie.

But the family did not think it was plausible that an innocent verdict could be handed down "after having [a person] in prison for four years and then saying he has been proven innocent" Somaia said.

Expand Close Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt

When her brother's name was called and the verdict read out the family erupted into "screaming and crying".

She said that the family do not know yet when their brother will be released from custody and brought home to Ireland but they are hopeful his return could be as early as the weekend.

"It really depends on process and how fast it is. I'm sure the embassy will issue passport as soon as possible," Somaia said.

Independent.ie understands that his release from prison could take between three and five says and Mr Halawa's travel status also needs to be addressed before he is free to return home.

After four years of fighting to clear Ibrahim's name the family are looking forward to welcoming home with the help of his supporters.

"I think I would like to have all the people who supported him to come to the airport for him to see how many amazing people he had behind him.. to see how much support he had," she said.

Somaia said there was a long list of people her family were grateful to and added that her family were heartened to receive a personal call from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on Sunday night.

Nusayba Halawa, another of Ibrahim's sisters, told RTE Radio One: "We couldn't believe it... after all that suffering it's nearly coming to the end."

"We weren't expecting it," she added,

"We just heard the news a few minutes ago but we hope it is going to be soon [when he is released] and we hope he is going to be home very soon. I think that he has suffered a lot... I hope that he will be home soon," she said.

"Also I have to mention as well that there is a lot of people we met visiting Ibrahim and we had a lot of times with them and I felt really sorry for them because a lot of them got convicted. So I feel sorry for these people as well that they have to still suffer all that suffering that we suffered for four years."

Ibrahim's mother is due to undergo surgery tomorrow and the family were hoping that her spirits would be high after hearing some good news about her son.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he wholeheartedly welcomed the conclusion to the "extraordinarily protracted case" case.

Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity."

After hearing the result Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said: On behalf of the Government and on my own behalf I welcome the news from Cairo that Ibrahim Halwa has been acquitted.

"This is the good news we had been hoping for. Ibrahim Halawas name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

"My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them."

He said the Governments priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that they can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible.

"We are conscious that there will be some practical procedures and formalities to be gone through before Ibrahim will be able to fly back to Dublin, but my Department and our Embassy team will be assisting and supporting Ibrahim and his family to seek to ensure he gets home as soon as possible.

President Michael D Higgins has also issued a statement welcoming the verdict.

As President of Ireland I welcome the news that Ibrahim Halawa and his three sisters have today been acquitted of all charges brought against him, and them, in what has been a prolonged, distressing and draining experience," he said.

"Todays decision brings to an end a long ordeal that Ibrahim, his family, friends and legal team have been put through.

"I am sure Ibrahims family are looking forward to the moment that Ibrahim will return to his home and loved ones," he said.

"I am sure they will have been sustained by the support of all those who have campaigned for his release over the last four years.

"It is appropriate, also, to acknowledge at this time the important efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the staff at Irelands embassy in Cairo.

Children's Minister Katherine Zappone has said she will work with her colleagues to ensure there are supports put in place.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar spoke by phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi when the last trial was adjourned three weeks ago.

During the 25-minute phone call, the Taoiseach expressed his disappointment.

He made clear to Mr Al-Sisi that his priority was to secure the return of Mr Halawa to Ireland as soon as possible.

In a statement today Amnesty Internation said "some semblance of justice has been done".

"Nothing can ever excuse the horrific ordeal that Ibrahim has endured. He spent more than four years locked up in harrowing conditions in in various different Egyptian prison cells, without access to proper medical care," Colm OGorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland said.

"He was unlawfully detained with no credible evidence to support the charges laid against him. In fact, not one shred of evidence was presented to the court against Ibrahim at any stage during this four year farcical mass trial process which was adjourned more than 30 times."

Today, at last, Ibrahims nightmare is over. He must now be immediately released and allowed to return home to Ireland. Our expectation is that the Irish Government will continue to work on his behalf and ensure his prompt return home to his family and life here in Ireland."

Human right's group Reprieve also welcomed the verdict saying it was long overdue:
Trevor Deely disappeared on December 8, 2000, as he made his way home from his office Christmas party to his apartment in Ballsbridge.

Gardai expect to continue searching for missing man Trevor Deely for at least another week as the massive search operation enters its final phase.

Officers have been searching a site at Chapelizod in west Dublin for five weeks and the operation is now in its closing stages.

"Gardai will continue searching for as long as possible but no trace of the missing man has been found," a senior source said.

The Garda Water Unit spent several days searching at the site last week, but its involvement has ended.

Expand Close Trevor Deely has been missing since December 8, 2000 / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Trevor Deely has been missing since December 8, 2000

Garda specialist teams have been carrying out digs at spec- ific locations on the three-acre site.

Read More

Mr Deely (22), a Bank of Ireland worker, was last seen in the early hours of December 8, 2000, in the Haddington Road area of the city centre.

The last known images of him were captured by a CCTV camera at the junction of Haddington Road and Baggot Street at 4.14am.

A man dressed in black, who gardai believe also spoke to Mr Deely outside his place of work minutes previously, can be seen following him in the direction of Haddington Road.

This footage was only made public earlier this year after a specialist unit, set up in Pearse Street Garda Station to review the case, secured improved CCTV images.

Informant

Last month, it emerged that an informant, who has alleged that a member of a dysfunctional crime family shot and buried Mr Deely, came forward due to a guilty conscience.

The criminal told detectives that he had no interest in the 100,000 reward being offered for any significant information in relation to Mr Deely's disappearance, but instead said he could no longer keep the information to himself.

The alleged suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is a well-known offender who has been involved in various forms of criminality over several decades.

The man and his associates were suspected of involvement in the drug trade, particularly heroin, in the south inner city and south Dublin area throughout the 1990s.

Associates of the alleged suspect were involved in running street prostitution in the Baggot Street area at the time of Mr Deely's disappearance.

This criminal gang has also been investigated for the unsolved murder of 21-year-old Sinead Kelly in the same area in June 1998.

Ms Kelly, from Santry, was stabbed to death on the banks of the Grand Canal off Baggot Street.

Gardai believe she was murdered because she owed 800 to a Dublin drug dealer.

Two files, one on the dealer and the other on the man who detectives believe he hired to kill Ms Kelly, have been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

However, the DPP decided that there should be no prosecution in the case.
Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa celebrating the news of his acquittal on charges relating to mass protests in Cairo four years ago. l-r; Somaia, Fatima, Khadiza and Somaia. Ballycullen, Dublin. Picture: Caroline Quinn

Ibrahim Halawa celebrates moments after his acquittal of various charges at the Wadi el-Natrun prison outside Cairo, Sept. 18, 2017. (Declan Walsh/The New York Times) Credit: New York Times / Redux / eyevine

This is the moment Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa heard he was acquitted of various charges and set to leave Egyptian prison after four years.

Jumping up and down with tears in his eyes, Halawa hugged his fellow prisoners as his name was read out as one of those who had been acquitted of all charges.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Standing behind an iron mesh, Halawa spoke briefly to embassy officials that had attended the hearing.

It is not yet known when he will be officially released from prison, but the Halawa family have said they hope to welcome him home before the weekend.

Very emotional scenes here in Firhouse this afternoon following news of Ibrahim's acquittal #halawa pic.twitter.com/zdnYSsjq6Y  Stephanie Grogan (@StephGrogan3) September 18, 2017

Some of the prisoners present at the mass trial received lengthy jail sentences, with over 40 receiving life sentences.

The 21-year-old had been held in a Cairo jail since 2013.

Speaking outside their family home in Firhouse, Imbrahim's sisters Fatima, Omaima, Somaia and Khadija expressed their "relief" that their brother has finally been declared innocent.

"It's exciting because he can now live a normal life. He can eat from a plate with a normal spoon, he can use a proper bathroom, he can drink clean water, all these basic things," said Fatima.

"When you're in prison you can't use metal, only plastic. Being in prison, it's the hardest thing. Four years of your life in prison, to to be proven innocent. For the last four years he's been derived of his basic human necessities, and for him to come back...it's going to be great," Somaia said.

The family, who have not yet spoken to Ibrahim since this afternoon's verdict, also shared a message with the 21-year-old.

Expand Close Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Sisters of Ibrahim Halawa, who is being held in Egypt

"Come home, we're waiting for four years for this to happen... you owe use big time"," Omaima joked.

Ibrahim Halawa was arrested along with hundreds of other individuals during peaceful protests against the ousting of former president Mohamed Morsi.

The trial process had been beset by more than 30 adjournments but a verdict was finally delivered today.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Speaking on RTE Radio, Declan Walsh, Cairo bureau chief of the New York Times, said Ibrahim was jumping for joy and "absolutely delighted" with the result.

Somaia Halawa, Ibrahim's sister, watched the verdict being delivered with her family in Dublin and said that today's result has surpassed all their expectations.

"We weren't expecting it to get an innocent verdict.. Ibrahim always wished for it but finally he got it. Even in all his letters he said I know I haven't done anything, I know I should be proven innocent," she told Independent.ie earlier in the day.

But the family did not think it was plausible that an innocent verdict could be handed down "after having [a person] in prison for four years and then saying he has been proven innocent" Somaia said.

When her brother's name was called and the verdict read out the family erupted into "screaming and crying".

She said that the family do not know yet when their brother will be released from custody and brought home to Ireland but they are hopeful his return could be as early as the weekend.

"It really depends on process and how fast it is. I'm sure the embassy will issue passport as soon as possible," Somaia said.

Independent.ie understands that his release from prison could take between three and five says and Mr Halawa's travel status also needs to be addressed before he is free to return home.

After four years of fighting to clear Ibrahim's name the family are looking forward to welcoming home with the help of his supporters.

"I think I would like to have all the people who supported him to come to the airport for him to see how many amazing people he had behind him.. to see how much support he had," she said.

Somaia said there was a long list of people her family were grateful to and added that her family were heartened to receive a personal call from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on Sunday night.

Nusayba Halawa, another of Ibrahim's sisters, told RTE Radio One: "We couldn't believe it... after all that suffering it's nearly coming to the end."

"We weren't expecting it," she added,

"We just heard the news a few minutes ago but we hope it is going to be soon [when he is released] and we hope he is going to be home very soon. I think that he has suffered a lot... I hope that he will be home soon," she said.

"Also I have to mention as well that there is a lot of people we met visiting Ibrahim and we had a lot of times with them and I felt really sorry for them because a lot of them got convicted. So I feel sorry for these people as well that they have to still suffer all that suffering that we suffered for four years."

Ibrahim's mother is due to undergo surgery tomorrow and the family were hoping that her spirits would be high after hearing some good news about her son.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he wholeheartedly welcomed the conclusion to the "extraordinarily protracted case" case.

Now that Ibrahim has been cleared of all charges, I expect he will be released as soon as possible and can return home to his family. The Government will facilitate his return home at the earliest opportunity."

After hearing the result Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said: On behalf of the Government and on my own behalf I welcome the news from Cairo that Ibrahim Halwa has been acquitted.

"This is the good news we had been hoping for. Ibrahim Halawas name has been cleared and his innocence is confirmed. I look forward to him being released from custody without delay.

"My thoughts are with Ibrahim and his family at this time of great emotion for them."

He said the Governments priority now is to support Ibrahim and his family in every way that they can in order to ensure that Ibrahim is able to return home to his family and friends as soon as possible.

"We are conscious that there will be some practical procedures and formalities to be gone through before Ibrahim will be able to fly back to Dublin, but my Department and our Embassy team will be assisting and supporting Ibrahim and his family to seek to ensure he gets home as soon as possible.

President Michael D Higgins has also issued a statement welcoming the verdict.

As President of Ireland I welcome the news that Ibrahim Halawa and his three sisters have today been acquitted of all charges brought against him, and them, in what has been a prolonged, distressing and draining experience," he said.

"Todays decision brings to an end a long ordeal that Ibrahim, his family, friends and legal team have been put through.

"I am sure Ibrahims family are looking forward to the moment that Ibrahim will return to his home and loved ones," he said.

"I am sure they will have been sustained by the support of all those who have campaigned for his release over the last four years.

"It is appropriate, also, to acknowledge at this time the important efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the staff at Irelands embassy in Cairo.

Children's Minister Katherine Zappone has said she will work with her colleagues to ensure there are supports put in place.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar spoke by phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi when the last trial was adjourned three weeks ago.

During the 25-minute phone call, the Taoiseach expressed his disappointment.

He made clear to Mr Al-Sisi that his priority was to secure the return of Mr Halawa to Ireland as soon as possible.

In a statement today Amnesty International said "some semblance of justice has been done".

"Nothing can ever excuse the horrific ordeal that Ibrahim has endured. He spent more than four years locked up in harrowing conditions in in various different Egyptian prison cells, without access to proper medical care," Colm OGorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland said.

"He was unlawfully detained with no credible evidence to support the charges laid against him. In fact, not one shred of evidence was presented to the court against Ibrahim at any stage during this four year farcical mass trial process which was adjourned more than 30 times."

Today, at last, Ibrahims nightmare is over. He must now be immediately released and allowed to return home to Ireland. Our expectation is that the Irish Government will continue to work on his behalf and ensure his prompt return home to his family and life here in Ireland."

Human right's group Reprieve also welcomed the verdict saying it was long overdue:
Maggie Gibado, who lives in Oranmore, Co Galway, with a picture of her sister Sara who perished in a fire in their college accommodation in Leuven, Belgium. Photo: Andrew Downes

The landlord of a house where two Irish students died in a fire has "never apologised", the family of one of the girls has claimed.

Malachy Vallely, director of the Leuven Institute for Ireland in Europe and owner of the student accommodation in Belgium where Dace Zarina (22) and Sara Gibadlo (19) died in 2014, was convicted on September 5 of breaching fire regulations. He was handed a 6,000 fine and a one-year suspended sentence.

The family of Sara Gibadlo said that while "some justice" was achieved, the outcome is not what they had hoped for.

"They were found guilty, and fair enough, but we just can't comprehend how somebody's life is worth 6,000 ... our daughter's life was worth more than that," said her mother Malgorzta Gibadlo.

"Also, the day after the case, we went down to place some flowers for the girls and on our way back ... I can't even describe in words ... we were so shocked to see him [Vallely] walking in the opposite direction, laughing away and talking on the phone. He looked at us, but he didn't recognise us. He didn't appear for the verdict and the way he is conducting himself, the way he tried to blame others, is just heartbreaking and unfair."

Ms Zarina and Ms Gibadlo were on a placement at the Leuven Institute as part of a business degree in catering and hotel management at the Galway and Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT).

Expand Close Saras mother Malgorzta Gibadlo. Photo: Andrew Downes / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Saras mother Malgorzta Gibadlo. Photo: Andrew Downes

The Gibadlo family said Sara had hoped to become a primary school teacher one day.

"She had her whole future planned out. She wanted to finish her course in GMIT and she was really excited to become a primary-school teacher as she loved kids.

"She was always smiling and she always knew how to include everyone in a conversation," her younger sister Maggie said. "She was like my mom - I could trust her with my life."

It's been more than three years since Ms Gibadlo tragically died but her family said time hasn't been a healer.

Expand Close Aftermath of fire in Leuven, Belgium. / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Aftermath of fire in Leuven, Belgium.

"The more time passes, the more you think about her. I always wonder would she have got married, where she would have lived ... I feel like our family has missed out on so much. She was just an amazing sister and I miss her every day," Maggie added.
Rural stories

'The lack of bus routes has directly affected my education'

Is education really accessible to everyone?

That is the question that Amanda Nolan, from Tournafulla in West Limerick, wants people to ask.

Amanda who studies Hotel Management in the Institute of Technology Tralee believes that "people in rural communities are being forgotten about."

"Around me there are no buses at all. The nearest bus is over 15km away. My parents have other children, and cant always be dropping me everywhere," she said.

Amanda believes the lack of public transport services around rural Kerry has affected her education. She said, because of the lack of a bus route, she has missed important deadlines and classes and this has directly affected her grades.

Expand Close Amanda Nolan believes the lack of public transport is directly affecting her education / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Amanda Nolan believes the lack of public transport is directly affecting her education

Amanda does avail of the SUSI grant system, but this only leaves her with about 60 a week. This is not enough for her to move to Tralee, she claims.

"60 a week isnt enough to pay rent, buy food and buy supplies," Amanda said.

"At the moment, I cant even afford to travel down to Tralee for the five days a week."

Amanda says that she is 6km below the distance needed to achieve the full grant, and she believes that the government and SUSI arent taking into account rural areas when calculating the distance.

"You need to be living 45km away from the college or university to get the special rates grant, which would give me enough money to survive on my own.

"That would be fine, 45km isnt far if you are living on a main road, but for me living in the back end of nowhere it becomes a lot harder journey to travel," she said.

The 21-year-old, who works in Tesco part time, believes there needs to be more bus routes to connect rural Ireland to the city.

"Better services are needed. I am where I am, I cant help that, there are plenty of other students in the same position as me, but no one cares about us," she added.

'I run a digital media company... but don't have Wi-Fi'

Catherine Hughes (23), who lives near the village of Mountcollins in rural Limerick, has never had Wi-Fi.

The young woman faces the added difficulty of running her company, Flash Media, without access to Wi-Fi.

Flash Media is an independent company Catherine started whilst studying in the University of Limerick. It provides services such as event videography, short film production, music video production, video editing and event photography.

She spoke to Independent.ie about her situation, and the problems she faces on a daily basis.

"Weve been told were in a dip, so cant get Wi-Fi.

"You can get it at the top of the road, you can get it at the bottom of the road, but here you are in a black spot," she said.

Catherine is currently relying on her mobile phone for all internet access. She said this can be slow and unreliable.

"Coverage can be bad, and if theres poor coverage theres no internet.

"You cant just go and reset the router," she said.

Expand Close Catherine Hughes is running a company without Wi-Fi / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Catherine Hughes is running a company without Wi-Fi

Catherine said she has been told in the past that roughly 5pc of the country resides in these black spots, where Wi-Fi isnt available.

She believes that it is not seen as financially beneficial for anyone to try and get Wi-Fi to these black spots - and is critical in the lack of improvement that has happened in recent years.

I just feel like five or ten years ago everyone was getting dial-up internet.

"When we didnt get that we said fair enough, we're a step behind everyone else.

"But now everyones 10 steps ahead and were still in the same spot," Catherine continued.

Catherine believes that improvements need to be made.

"Instead of making whats good better, they should be making whats not existent, existent.

"Someone from Dublin would have a complete meltdown in our position."

Catherine spoke about how the lack of internet access has impacted the growth of her company.

"It's definitely harder.

"These days everythings done online, even the banks are saying that theyre no longer sending statements through the post, that you have to do it online.

"If you dont have internet access, then tough luck."

'To the Department it's just a spreadsheet... but it was so lonely being the only teacher in a one-teacher school'

A school principal in west Mayo has told Independent.ie about the loneliness she felt when her school was put back to a one-teacher school two years ago because of dropping student numbers.

"The darkest feeling wasn't desperation. It was the loneliness," said Tereasa McGuire of Drummin National School.

"We went down under the 22 students and I was suddenly on my own," she said.

She said it was very challenging and isolating to lose a teacher in the primary school.

"It was harrowing and challenging but you get on with it and do it. I was very lucky to have a very good secretary with a level five in childcare. My learning support teacher was also very supportive and they ensured that I was left on my own as little as possible," she said.

"But it brought a lot of challenges. It was very lonely. The support was the main thing. While the Board of Management did their best, there was no real sounding board or support.

"You nearly spend more time with your colleagues than your loved ones, you really do," she said.

Expand Close "The darkest feeling wasn't desperation. It was the loneliness" - Tereasa McGuire of Drummin National School / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp "The darkest feeling wasn't desperation. It was the loneliness" - Tereasa McGuire of Drummin National School

She said the logistics of running a one-teacher school was very challenging, especially in terms of supervision, and that children felt the brunt of the change.

"In reality it is the children who lose out. And on the other side if you're a parent you don't want to send your child to a one-teacher school so the problem gets worse," she added.

Ms McGuire said she was very aware and supportive of parent's concerns.

She said it was difficult to find more families to send their children to the school.

"The community in Drummin is not the same as it was. We have a very supportive and proactive Board of Management who were thinking of everything they could to promote the school. However, you can bring a horse to water but you can't force it to drink," she said.

Ms McGuire is also a Fine Gael Councillor in Mayo.

"You're the one on the coalface getting on with things, and you don't want children to suffer because of that situation. You want them to have the very best and you're doing the best you can.

"You understand in your head that this is the way it has to be. To the Department it's a spreadsheet and a number is a number and there has to be a cutoff. But in your heart, your heart says no," she added.

"I hate when people are blaming the decline on rural Ireland. It's not the government's fault that people want to live in a town," she added.

However, three children soon arrived into the community and the second teacher was able to return.

"We were very lucky the same teacher could slot back in. Every child is entitled to the best and their education shouldn't be hampered by geographical location. It shouldn't be a hindrance. We want to provide the highest level of education," Ms McGuire added.
Many students are already choosing not to study in Dublin because of the cost or the lack of a home. (Stock photo)

Last month, the latest Daft.ie Rental Report showed just how bad the market is for today's renters. Rents are now up by 70pc in Dublin from their lowest point, in late 2010, while elsewhere in the country they have risen by 45pc on average - although this hides significant variation by county.

Not only do rents continue to increase, they are doing so at a faster rate: for the fifth quarter in a row, rents rose by at least 10pc year-on-year. It would be a brave civil servant who would argue that Rent Pressure Zones are working.

As ever, prices are only a symptom, though. The underlying cause is a lack of supply. There were fewer than 3,000 properties available to rent nationwide on August 1 this year. That is not only down almost 20pc on the same date a year earlier, it is also the first time ever that fewer than 3,000 homes have been available to rent.

The last time the rental market was experiencing anything like this was in early 2007, when rents were increasing at roughly 11pc per year. Even then, though, there was an average of 4,800 properties available to rent at any one time, roughly half those in Dublin.

Now, though, availability in Dublin is close to 1,000. Comparisons with 10 years ago also understate the issue: the number of people renting has risen by more than 50pc. If 5,000 homes to rent was a tight market 10 years ago, the equivalent tightness today would be 7,500.

This sort of rental crisis is unprecedented and is clearly linked to the homelessness crisis. Healthy housing markets are built on a number of key ingredients. One of these is the presence of sensible mortgage rules, which we had through the Building Society system from the 1860s until the late 1980s, and again since the Central Bank rules were introduced in 2015.

A second key ingredient is a responsive social housing sector. Ireland had this more or less from independence but it was dismantled steadily from the 1980s on. By the mid-2000s, loose lending was taking the place of social housing.

But we now have a combination of mortgage rules but no social housing. Never before in post-war Ireland have we had this combination, which is what makes the homelessness crisis so severe.

Into this environment step our fledgling households, those starting college for the first time this month. What chance do they have? Many students are already choosing not to study in Dublin, even if a course there offered them the best prospects, because of the cost or the lack of a home. Many more are commuting very long distances to try to make things work.

As a society, we should be happy with neither of these as solutions. Even leaving aside the potential for higher education as a lucrative export industry, we should be trying to ensure our students have the supports necessary to fulfil their potential.

What is obvious from a quick glance at the figures is that we are failing them, particularly when it comes to their accommodation. In the UK, roughly half of all students who don't live with their parents live in purpose-built student accommodation, either on- or off-campus.

In Ireland, roughly 35pc of students - rather than the 10pc seen in the UK - live at home with Mammy. Of the remainder, only a small fraction - a little more than 10pc - live in purpose-built student accommodation. This, of course, puts pressure on the wider rental sector, as students group up and take family homes out of circulation.

What is truly frightening to me, as an outside observer, is how ill-prepared our policy-making system is for the future. We know from demographics that the number of third-level students is set to grow by at least 50pc over the coming decade. Factoring in likely increases in enrolment and in net migration, as well as the targeted increase in non-EU students, student numbers in Ireland may double over the coming 15 years.

Suppose we allow for one-third of Irish students to stay with Mammy. Even reaching the UK ratio of one student in purpose-built for every student in the wider rental sector would mean a dramatic increase in purpose-built student housing over the coming decade.

The country needs to plan for having 100,000 units in purpose-built student accommodation by 2025. It currently has about one-third of that. Put in its simplest terms, Dublin needs to be seeing a new block of 300 student beds opening every month for a decade, while the rest of the country as a whole needs to see roughly the same.

But with Dublin City Council already seeking to change the rules to make it easier to say no to proposals for student beds, what are the odds that this will happen? Sadly, unless a change in mindset happens fast, we are likely to read grim news on student housing and the rental sector for some years to come.
You might hate Monday, but you'll love our pick of the week's best travel offers...

39.99: Fly direct to Iceland

WOW air has some rock bottom prices to Iceland, including one-way fares from Cork to Reykjavik from 34.99 and Dublin from 39.99. Baggage fees are extra, but these are among the lowest fares WOW has ever offered on the routes. See wowair.ie.

199pp: Christmas markets in Berlin

ClickandGo.com has up to 250 off winter sun holidays, as well as deals on Christmas Market breaks - including Berlin from 199pp. The deal is based on flights and a 4-star hotel for travel on Tuesday, December 5. 01 539-7723; clickandgo.com.

15pc off with Brittany Ferries

Brittany Ferries has 2018 sailings on sale, with up to 15pc off sailings from Cork to Roscoff when you book by 31 October. It's offering 20pc off accommodation bookings too. 021 427-7801; brittanyferries.ie.

529pp: Qatar Airways on sale

Qatar Airways has a Global Travel Boutique promotion running to September 19 - with discounts of up to 40pc on economy and business fares. Deals include return flights from Dublin to Bangkok from 529pp and Hong-Kong from 549pp. See qatarairways.com.

899pp: Santa's home in Lapland

Sunway has a one-night trip to Lapland (see video above) this December from 899pp (799pp for kids). It includes flights, accommodation, a snowmobile adventure, reindeer sleigh ride, husky sleigh ride, snow and ice activities and a meeting with Santa... and arctic clothing. Two night trips cost 1279/1079pp, and three and four-night trips are also available. 01 231-1833; sunway.ie.

NB: All travel deals subject to availability/change.
Ryanair is cancelling hundreds of flights. Travel Editor Pol O Conghaile answers your questions on passenger rights.

Why is Ryanair cancelling flights?

Ryanair is cancelling up to 50 flights a day for the next six weeks as it moves to reduce a backlog of holidays for staff and improve punctuality.

The airline has apologised sincerely to affected customers for what it says is " clearly a mess". But there is widespread outrage at the sudden action.

The Irish Travel Agents Association says it shows utter disdain towards consumers, and the airlines share price has been plummeting.

Read a full explainer on the cancellations here.

How many flights are affected?

The airline says less than 2pc of its schedule will be affected over six weeks.

However, thats a busy schedule. Ryanair's Boeing 737-800s seat up to 189 passengers - filled to 97pc capacity (the airline's load factor for August), that could mean over 9,160 customers are affected every day.

The latest lists of cancelled flights are here.

How do I know if my flights are affected?

Ryanair says it is emailing all customers on cancelled flights (check the email address you used to make the booking). Alternatively, full lists are here:

Flying on Monday 18th Sept? Check HERE

Flying on Tuesday 19th Sept? Check HERE

Flying from Wednesday 20th Sept? Check HERE

Flying from Thursday 21st Sept - Sunday 24th September? Check HERE

Flying from Monday 25th Sept - Saturday 28th October? Check HERE

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled?

Flight cancellation rights are covered under EC Regulation 261/2004.

If your flight is cancelled for any reason, and regardless of when you are notified, your airline must offer you the choice between:

1) Re-routing as soon as possible, subject to availability, free of charge.

2) Re-routing at a later date.

3) A full refund.

How do I arrange a re-routing or refund?

Ryanairs website includes the steps to process your own refunds or bookings here. These should be refunded back to the original source of payment within seven working days.

Am I entitled to care and assistance?

If your flight is cancelled and you choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, then you are entitled to meals and refreshments, hotel accommodation and transfers between the airport and hotel as required. If the airline does not provide these, and you end up paying yourself, keep the receipts - you are entitled to a reimbursement of reasonable expenses.

NB. A five-star hotel may not be a reasonable expense!

Bear in mind that if your flight is cancelled and you choose a full refund, then the airline's obligations to you end there and then.

I'm overseas. My return flight is cancelled. What now?

Ryanair has a duty of care to you (see above). Go to the airport, where it must offer you care and assistance until it can get you home.

If you choose to fly with another airline or get home another way, you don't have the same rights to care and assistance, and may have a hard time claiming compensation (see below).

Im flying within the next six weeks. What do I do?

Ryanair's failure to quickly release a full list of cancellations has been a huge source of frustration for passengers booked (and booking) to travel.

Since it announced the cancellations last Friday, it has continued to sell flights for the next six weeks, and 'autumn getaway' sale fares from 19.99.

A full list is expected today.

Before it is released, any rearrangements you make are at your own expense. Ryanair is not obliged to offer refunds or re-routing for any flights that have not (yet) been confirmed as cancelled.

Am I entitled to compensation?

Financial compensation depends on the flight length and the reason for the cancellation. It ranges from 250 (short-haul, less than 1,500km) to 600 (long-haul, over 3,500km).

Here are three scenarios:

1) If you receive less than seven days notice of cancellation and choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided your new flights depart within one hour of the original departure and land within two hours of the original arrival.

2) If you receive between seven days and two weeks notice of cancellation, provided you choose to be re-routed and are facilitated with a new flight that departs no more than two hours before the original departure time and arrives no more than four hours after the original arrival time, you are NOT entitled to compensation.

3) If you receive notification of two weeks or more, you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided, of course, that the airline offers full re-routing or refund options.

NB. If the air carrier can prove the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, then you may NOT be entitled to compensation. However, you are still due a refund or re-routing.

So far, Ryanair has been apologetic and not invoked any "extraordinary circumstance". The Commission for Aviation Regulation has been speaking with Ryanair on the matter.

How do I claim compensation?

Contact the airline.

If you're not satisfied with its response, then you can escalate by contacting the Commission for Aviation Regulation (01 661-1700; flightrights.ie).

How can my travel insurance help?

In the event of a flight cancellation, the first source of refunds and re-routing should be with your airline. Standard travel insurance policies don't offer much help here.

However, if your policy includes extra cover for "travel disruption" you can be covered for additional transport or accommodation costs up to 1,000pp, according to Ciaran Mulligan, Managing Director of Blue Insurance.

Travel Disruption cover costs extra, and though you can add it retrospectively to a policy, you cannot add it to claim on an event that has already happened.

Also worth noting is the fact that it covers transport and accommodation-related expenses only - i.e. not a host of other potential losses, ranging from lost annual leave or business opportunities to deposits, concert tickets or museum or attraction fees booked in advance online.

If my outbound flight is cancelled, what happens my return flight?

If a given flight isn't subject to disruption, technically you are not entitled to any care or compensation. However, airlines can take a logical view, and have been known to work with passengers to refund or reschedule flights impacted in this way. Check with it for details.

Where can I find more information?

For full details on your air passenger rights in the event of cancellation, delays and more, see flightrights.ie.

Read more:
Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.Picture Credit:Frank Mc Grath 18/9/17

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.Picture Credit:Frank Mc Grath 18/9/17

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.Picture Credit:Frank Mc Grath 18/9/17

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.Picture Credit:Frank Mc Grath 18/9/17

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.Picture Credit:Frank Mc Grath 18/9/17

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

Ryanair has published a list of the airports that will bear the brunt of its flight cancellations to October 31.

Several airports, including Dublin, will be most affected, with at least one "line of flying" removed from each over the next six weeks as follows:

Barcelona: 1 of 12 lines of flights

Brussels Charleroi: 1 of 13 lines of flights

Dublin: 1 of 23 lines of flights

Lisbon: 1 of 4 lines of flights

London Stansted: 2 of 41 lines of flights

Madrid: 1 of 13 lines of flights

Milan Bergamo: 1 of 14 lines of flights

Porto: 1 of 8 lines of flights

Rome Fiumicino: 1 of 3 lines of flights

A "line of flight" refers to the schedule of flights an aircraft operates in a day.

The cancellations have been allocated "where possible" to Ryanair's bigger base airports and routes with multiple daily frequencies to minimise inconvenience, it says.

Read More

The full schedule of cancelled flights from September 21 to October 31 will be published later today - follow Independent.ie for the news as it happens.

The list of cancelled flights up to and including Wednesday, September 20, is here.

Up to 50 flights a day are being cancelled over the next six weeks as Ryanair moves to reduce a backlog of holidays for staff and improve punctuality.

The move has attracted fierce controversy, throwing into chaos the travel plans of what could be over 9,160 customers a day, given its recent load factors.

The airline has "apologised unreservedly" to affected customers, who will be emailed with offers of alternative routings or refunds, it says.

"It is clearly a mess but in context of an operational where we operate more than 2,500 flights a day it is reasonably small," Michael O'Leary said earlier.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon Mr O'Leary said the airline is trying to allocate a large amount of annual leave, principally to Ryanair pilots.

"We are not short of pilots. What we have messed up is the allocation of holidays. We don't have enough stand-by coverage to cover the inevitable disruptions that happen - air traffic control disruption and weather," he said.

"We don't have enough pilots in September and October to allocate the leave.

"As we take disruptions - eg thunder storms this weekend in Barcelona - and as crew and aircraft get stuck, there are no back-up crews available.

"We need to take out about 50 flights a day over the next six weeks while we have these crewing issues."

The cancellations will affect less than 2pc of customers the airline has said.

He said no heads will roll following Ryanair's mass cancellation of flights.

"We balls-ed it up," said Mr O'Leary at a press conference this afternoon. "I don't think heads will roll because the heads are fixing this."

Expand Close Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

He said about 75pc of passengers will be able to get another flight on the same day and that every customer will be compensated according to EU rules.

Almost 400,000 people will be affected by the cancellations.

"While over 98pc of our customers will not be affected by these cancellations over the next 6 weeks, we apologise unreservedly to those customers whose travel will be disrupted, and assure them that we have done our utmost to try to ensure that we can re-accommodate most of them on alternative flights on the same or next day," Michael O'Leary said in a statement released to media.

"Ryanair is not short of pilots  we were able to fully crew our peak summer schedule in June, July and August  but we have messed up the allocation of annual leave to pilots in Sept and Oct because we are trying to allocate a full years leave into a 9 month period from April to December.

"This issue will not recur in 2018 as Ryanair goes back onto a 12 month calendar leave year from 1st Jan to 31st December 2018.

"This is a mess of our own making.

"I apologise sincerely to all our customers for any worry or concern this has caused them over the past weekend.

"We have only taken this decision to cancel this small proportion of our 2,500 daily flights so that we can provide extra standby cover and protect the punctuality of the 98pc of flights that will be unaffected by these cancellations."

The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) has said their members are "inundated" with queries from customers.

Our members have been inundated with queries from intending travellers who are uncertain if their flights will go ahead. We have written to Ryanair requesting them to publish a full list of all flights they intend to cancel immediately to ease the uncertainty faced by intending travellers and so that alternative holiday arrangements can be made as soon as possible," Cormac Meehan, President of the ITAA said.
Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary during a press conference in Dublin where he has admitted the cancellation of flights due to pilot holidays is "a mess". Niall Carson/PA Wire

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin.

As passengers seethed about Ryanairs industrial-scale cancellations, and social media sizzled with rumours about the airlines staffing and financial health, getting answers from Europes biggest airline has proved unusually difficult.

But the picture emerging from a combination of leaked documents, insider accounts and aviation regulations suggests that the airlines admission we messed up in the planning of pilot holidays is an understatement of the problem.

At the root of Europes worst-ever case of staff shortage are two factors: annual holidays and Flight Time Limitations (FTLs).

Short-haul aviation in Europe has very heavily pronounced peaks and troughs. Demand between Easter and the beginning of September is much stronger than the rest of the year  and this is also when airlines such as Ryanair make the vast majority of their profits.

Expand Close Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Ryanairs CEO Michael O Leary pictured during a press conference where he addressed the recent Ryanair flight cancellations at Ryanairs HQ in Dublin. Photo: Frank McGrath

As passengers seethed about Ryanairs industrial-scale cancellations, and social media sizzled with rumours about the airlines staffing and financial health, getting answers from Europes biggest airline has proved unusually difficult. But the picture emerging from a combination of leaked documents, insider accounts and aviation regulations suggests that the airlines admission we messed up in the planning of pilot holidays is an understatement of the problem.

At the root of Europes worst-ever case of staff shortage are two factors: annual holidays and Flight Time Limitations (FTLs).

Short-haul aviation in Europe has very heavily pronounced peaks and troughs. Demand between Easter and the beginning of September is much stronger than the rest of the year  and this is also when airlines such as Ryanair make the vast majority of their profits.

The Independent has seen a letter sent to pilots last Wednesday by Ryanairs chief operations officer, Michael Hickey. He indicates that the airline has a healthy overall crewing ratio, and indeed says that there was actually a surplus of pilots in the peak months of July and August.

Expand Close Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary during a press conference in Dublin where he has admitted the cancellation of flights due to pilot holidays is "a mess". Niall Carson/PA Wire / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary during a press conference in Dublin where he has admitted the cancellation of flights due to pilot holidays is "a mess". Niall Carson/PA Wire

The airline must now be wishing it had sent some of them away on holiday. Instead, Mr Hickey is asking pilots to sell back their annual leave. But this has two problems: it may not be legally possible for some of them to work any longer; and there is anger among pilots at the way Ryanair has chosen to implement the change, with far less time off in summer.

A combination of the pilots understandable wish to use their holiday rather than lose it; the unbreakable rules on Flight Time Limitations; and an ambitious schedule mean that all the holidays are now bunched into the next six weeks, and Ryanair simply does not have enough staff to operate all the planned 2,200 flights a day.

Whenever any airline runs into difficulties, there is always a surge of rumours about financial or operational problems  often both. Ryanair is so ferociously profitable and cash-rich that it can easily afford to lose up to 100m as a result of botched rostering. So instead the rumours centre on pilots (100? 300? 500?) moving in their droves to Norwegian and/or Jet2.

Both airlines are certainly expanding, and some flight crew have certainly moved on from Ryanair  which, by many young men and women, is seen as a good entry-level opportunity to build flying hours but not a long-term career.

Yet with the winter season just a few weeks away, it would not make sense for large-scale poaching to be happening  most other airlines will shortly be looking around the crew room and wondering why they are paying so many pilots.

Come spring, though, it is possible that rumours could begin to crystallise into reality.
Premium

Radio review: The thing about the Wolfe Tones is not that their music is Irish, but that its bad

We have established that nationalism in general is eejitry taken to such extremes it becomes a form of evil. And in the case of our version of nationalism, perhaps the ultimate eejitry is that many of us would broadly agree in theory with a United Ireland if it wasnt for the nationalists themselves  they have contrived somehow to be the main obstacle to their own ambitions.
Premium

John Downing Opinion New British prime minister Rishi Sunaks succession proves an important milestone in British political inclusivity

There is an old saying in British politics that goes: The right looks for converts while the left seeks out traitors. It comes to mind when one reflects upon the election of Rishi Sunak as the UKs first non-white prime minister in a party traditionally seen as most opposed to mass immigration and the dilution of national identity via multiculturalism.
EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan was one of the few in the Brussels executive deemed capable of campaigning on the ground against Brexit in Britain in spring and summer 2016. He went about agricultural shows in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland arguing in a low-key, but frank fashion that the EU was good for farmers.

Other commissioners were warned to stay at home so as not to make things worse. But Mr Hogan's interventions were deemed to be well-judged and helpful, though not enough to prevent the 'Leave' side from winning.

Now Mr Hogan has publicly called on the British prime minister to dial down the worst aspects of Brexit by at least keeping the United Kingdom inside the EU customs union. That would mean no tariffs or quotas for trade between Britain and the other EU member states and would be a boon for trade and employment.

Europhobes in Britain will predictably castigate Mr Hogan's intervention. But even a quick glance at how he has couched his comments will show that such reactions are unjustified.

The Irish commissioner lays most stress on the needs of British trade and continuing employment. His view is widely held across the United Kingdom and is now the stance adopted by the opposition British Labour Party. Mr Hogan is also justified in arguing that staying inside the customs union would also benefit Ireland north and south as it would help manage the Border issue.

Theresa May is under huge pressure from the hard-line 'Leave' advocates. Leaving the customs union, and the border-free single market, have been central to her stance on Brexit as articulated in her landmark speech on the issue in October of last year.
'The speech in the European Parliament was accompanied by the adoption of concrete initiatives by the European Commission on trade, investment screening, cybersecurity, industry, data and democracy.'

There was much to be welcomed in European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker's State of the Union address last week in which he presented his priorities for the year ahead and outlined his vision for how the European Union could evolve, not least the sense of optimism he sought to portray after a decade of stagnation and the uncertainty created by the UK's decision to leave the European Union.

The speech in the European Parliament was accompanied by the adoption of concrete initiatives by the European Commission on trade, investment screening, cybersecurity, industry, data and democracy.

However, there were also several notes which will be of concern to this country and all smaller, peripheral countries in Europe, particularly in light of the UK's exit, a decision which will allow the political power blocs of Germany and France more freedom to dominate influence within the EU.

In particular, Mr Juncker's stated intention to move to qualified majority voting for decisions on the common consolidated corporate tax base, on fair taxes for the digital industry and on the financial transaction tax should raise a red flag in Ireland.

A government-commissioned report recently concluded that Ireland's corporate tax code meets the highest standards internationally and said that the surge in tax receipts from multinationals based here will continue until at least 2020.

The review, by economist Seamus Coffey, who is also chairman of the Government's Fiscal Advisory Council, comes in the wake of a series of controversies concerning Ireland's corporate tax regime, culminating in the European Commission's ruling last year that Apple should repay 13bn in back taxes to Ireland.

Mr Coffey was asked specifically to look at issues relating to tax transparency, tax certainty and the avoidance of preferential treatment, an allegation that has been repeatedly made against the Irish Government in relation to Apple, but he was not asked to include an examination of a change to the State's 12.5pc headline rate of corporate tax.

Governments here have consistently made the case that a change to the country's corporate tax regime is a non-starter. There are well-rehearsed reasons for holding that position, which is why any move to qualified majority voting on such taxation issues should be resisted. Mr Juncker is determined that Europe maintains a united front in the Brexit negotiations, so it was inadvisable to again raise the issue of a common consolidated corporate tax base at this juncture.

That said, it is increasingly evident that changes are in train to the manner in which multi-nationals, particularly digital and pharmaceutical corporations are treated for tax purposes at a global level.

It is important that Ireland continuously adapts to stay ahead, but on the correct side of these overdue reforms. It is vital that Ireland strikes a proper balance between attracting inward investment and not allowing companies to manufacture new ways to avoid taxation. It is also important that Ireland co-operates, and be seen to co-operate with the reform programme being led by the OECD.

Meanwhile, the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, while downplayed by Mr Juncker, remains critical to this country's future and, therefore, perhaps should not have been minimised to the extent that it was in his address. That said, 10 years since the economic crisis, he did strike an optimistic note. Europe has reason to look forward with confidence, but countries such as Ireland also have grounds to temper such confidence with caution.
Princess Charlotte of Cambridge arrives at Berlin Tegel Airport during an official visit to Poland and Germany on July 19, 2017 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Britain's Prince George accompanied by Britain's Prince William (L), Duke of Cambridge arrives for his first day of school at Thomas's school in Battersea, southwest London on September 7, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / POOL / RICHARD POHLERICHARD POHLE/AFP/Getty Images

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince George of Cambridge, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte leave from Victoria Harbour to board a sea-plane on the final day of their Royal Tour of Canada

Prince William has shared new details about Prince George and Princess Charlotte's personalities.

During a visit to Aintree University Hospital, Liverpool, William (35) told patients about his two children.

Speaking about Charlotte (two), he reportedly said: "I think she's going to be trouble when she's older. All fathers say that."

Talking about four-year-old George starting school two weeks ago, he said: "Most of the parents are in floods of tears and the children are absolutely fine.

Expand Close Britain's Prince George accompanied by Britain's Prince William (L), Duke of Cambridge arrives for his first day of school at Thomas's school in Battersea, southwest London on September 7, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / POOL / RICHARD POHLERICHARD POHLE/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Britain's Prince George accompanied by Britain's Prince William (L), Duke of Cambridge arrives for his first day of school at Thomas's school in Battersea, southwest London on September 7, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / POOL / RICHARD POHLERICHARD POHLE/AFP/Getty Images

"George rules the roost and Charlotte isn't far behind."

The Duke made the visit to the hospital on his own as his wife, Kate Middleton, is suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness, during her third pregnancy, as she did with the other two.

The new baby will become the fifth in line to the throne behind George and Charlotte, pushing Prince Harry into sixth place.
Irish designers showing at London Fashion Week tapped into inspiration from their childhoods to create stunning catwalk looks which were widely acclaimed in a weekend of Spring-Summer 2018 shows.

Richard Malone (27) had the honour of opening the Spring-Summer 2018 collections at LFW on Friday and his "quietly defiant" collection which included lots of stripes, for which the Ardcavan man is now famous, and factored in some patchworking skills he learned making GAA flags.

Rebellion comes in many forms, says Malone, who turned to a tawdry colour palette of 'supermarket' blue, green and yellow. He looked to "weird contrast" such as when the well-dressed guests arrive into town for the Wexford Opera Festival and how the locals dressed.

His first exposure to formal dressing came in the photographs that his grandparents Patrick Harper and his late wife Christina brought home from their holidays in Blackpool.

His collection included lots of sculptural, dramatic silhouettes, but while these dresses may denote high-octane femininity, he is quick to assert: "This is not glamour."

His new fabrication, Lyocell, is made from the bark of eucalyptus trees, and came to life in duster coats and halter-neck dresses.

Expand Expand Previous Next Close Rich handwork and playful innocence in two looks by Simone Rocha at her LFW show at Middle Temple, the British law chamber Rich handwork and playful innocence in two looks by Simone Rocha at her LFW show at Middle Temple, the British law chamber / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Rich handwork and playful innocence in two looks by Simone Rocha at her LFW show at Middle Temple, the British law chamber

Meanwhile, Dubliner Simone Rocha consolidated her reputation for subversive femininity collapsing frills, hand-painted flowers, silk tulle and a collection that was inspired by dolls from her childhood. Rocha, who turned 31 last week, and has a 21-month-old daughter Valentine, recalled after the show how she had china dolls with Victorian dresses when she was little and used to send them down the banisters at home, so they ended up with cracked faces.

They provided some inspiration for the collection with its strong Edwardian vibes. She experimented with ballooning white cotton shapes and broderie anglaise with exaggerated cutwork holes and puff sleeves. In contrast, there was a new long, lean and supremely sexy silhouette gleamed in bias-cut charmeuse.

One of Rocha's signature looks has been her layered tulles, and for SS18 there's a striking motif of red dolls holding hands across hemlines which is brilliantly offset by luxurious red satin shoes.

Shoe fans will be pleased by her introduction of scallop-edged flat sandals and pearlised Mary-Janes.

Expand Close Simone Rocha. Photo: Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Simone Rocha. Photo: Getty Images

Video of the Day

Rocha's collection is exclusive in Ireland to Havana in Donnybrook and I suspect her Irish fans will zone in on her modern macs with their lace and pearls, quilted suits with hand-stitched pinstripes and washed silks. Best of all, this talented young mum designs for women of all ages.
Boats piled up at Nanny Cay on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands in the wake of Hurricane Irma. Photo: PA

The hurricane-battered islands of the Caribbean prepared to face yet another disaster last night, with forecasters saying that Tropical Storm Maria was headed their way as a strengthening hurricane.

Hurricane watches were in effect for many of the very islands still trying to cope with the devastation left by Hurricane Irma, including St Martin, St Barts and Antigua and Barbuda.

The US National Hurricane Centre said Maria was likely to grow into a hurricane by last night and swell into major hurricane status by midweek as it heads for Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Haiti.

The storm had maximum sustained winds of 100kmh yesterday. It was centred about 650km south-east of the Lesser Antilles and was heading west-north-west at 24kmh.

The Hurricane Centre said hurricane conditions should begin to affect parts of the Leeward Islands by tonight, with storm surge raising water levels by 1.2m to 1.83m near the storm's centre.

The storm is likely to bring 15 to 30cm of rain across the islands, with more in isolated areas.

It could make a direct hit on Puerto Rico, which was spared the full brunt of Irma, though power was knocked out to much of the island.

Governor Ricardo Rossello said officials had prepared about 450 shelters with a capacity for nearly 68,000 people - or even 125,000 in an emergency.

He added that schools were cancelled for today.
A Japanese artists toys have been captivating people online, and its not hard to see why.

Haruki Nakamura uses a variety of mediums to create his masterpieces, and their detail and ingenuity push them beyond the average yo-yo or Beanie Baby  and attracted views in the millions on YouTube.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Although much of Nakamuras work feels more artwork than toy, his dream is for children to play with the toys rather than a spot in a gallery.

I want to become standard, Nakamura told the Press Association. I want children 100 years later to play my work.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Nakamura said the Gears Heart, seen above, was the most difficult piece he has ever created and that a typical piece takes between one and two months to design.

Despite the pieces intricacy, Nakamura said creating the toys from his designs requires only elementary school ability  and he has posted videos showing how its done.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Nakamura said he has various inspirations, often finding ideas from failure and trial and error.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Many of Nakamuras toys are comical, including a wolf with a sheeps head hidden inside.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Others use cleverly folded paper to pop open, revealing insides such as a dinosaur bursting out of an egg.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

Meanwhile, others imitate the animals they represent  such as the aptly-named Surprised Armadillo.

We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preference

If youd like to see more from Nakamuras collection, take a look at his YouTube channel. Alternatively, you can buy the toys for yourself on his website.
In the rainy season the illusion never changes. It is the same sea every time. The same beguiling confluences of water and gold, sunlight and vivid green, wooden stilt bridges, small figures far below in the dusk as the plane banks over the Mandalay hills. There is no more beautiful approach to the land anywhere on earth, a descent that is like an ascent: your body is coming to the earth but the heart soars in the presence of such beauty. The rice paddies have been flooded since the first rains came in May giving the impression of a flooded civilisation above which the golden pagodas seem suspended in air.

It is impossible to conceive of this as a place in which hatred might blossom. The stillness of a pre-industrial landscape, the body reduced to listlessness by the pressing heat, the smiles on every passing face, those lines of saffron-robed monks clutching their alms bowls. All that and generations of conditioning of a western mind which sees the word Buddhism and instantly thinks of the Dalai Lama, celebrities like Richard Gere, meditation, thousands of self-help books, and appeals for compassion and tolerance.

It is the last part, or rather their absence, that is causing the problem in Myanmar now. Numerous friends have asked me in tones of disbelief if Buddhists could really be capable of the crimes being attributed to them now, a nastiness that has driven over 400,000 people to flee from their homes into makeshift camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, perpetrate rape and murder, and sow landmines on paths used by refugees? I have news for you, my friends. They are capable. More than capable. Like the rest of us of all faiths and none, they can, in fact, be ferociously enthusiastic about slaughtering their ethnic, religious or political enemies.

That I should have to explain this says much for the power of stereotype and broader ignorance of the history of South East Asia.

Being a devoutly Buddhist country does not give immunity to the vice of hatred. Anybody remember Cambodia and the devoutly Buddhist society that gave us the genocidal Khmer Rouge? Or Sri Lanka and its savage war with the Tamils? Or the vicious crackdowns in Thailand, where tolerance is so valued that the mere hint of a comment that might be seen to disrespect the monarch can land you in jail?

There are numerous other examples of viciousness in the Buddhist realms. But the issue is not a belief system. The fault does not lie with Buddhism as such, no more than the fault lay exclusively with religion in our own blood quarrels. Or with religion in the current wars in Syria or Iraq.

It is the misuse of religion that brings untold grief. And yes, we need to acknowledge that faith can be the most powerful of all flags. Men can unleash their most vile instincts under the pretence of doing holy work. But scrape away the flaking paint and there is a different fresco on the ancient walls, a hatred borne of fear of the 'other' and usually an 'other' whose existence is resented for the most basic, non-sectarian reasons. Do the Rakhine Buddhists hate the Rohingya because they face Mecca to pray and revere a different holy book? Of course they don't. They fear them because they themselves are among the poorest of the country's poor and they have been told by the military for generations that the Rohingya want to take what they have. They have been told that unless they fight back they will be swamped and destroyed, that their women will be seduced and used as vehicles to breed Muslim babies and dilute the race. To students of genocide or ethnic cleansing, this language will be familiar. It is what usually comes in the preparatory stages.

These hateful falsities have been encouraged by a self-serving elite composed of the military and some senior Buddhist clergy. They have been enabled by a pro-democracy movement that has decided to remain silent, not least because of fear of alienating a larger population that, by and large, has accepted the agenda of untruth. Blame the sealing of Myanmar from the world over decades on the ability of the elite to preserve the ugly mythologies of race and faith.

The Buddhist monks of Ma Ba Tha have led the way in Muslim baiting. This popular movement was banned last July by the government of Aung San Suu Kyi. But the ban has not been enforced, perhaps because of a lack of enthusiasm among the security forces. I went to meet the monks in Mandalay for an encounter they filmed and which involved them scolding me for the BBC's use of the term 'Rohingya' when "no such race existed." There were eight monks facing me in a semi-circle and all repeated the same ethno-sectarian polemic.

These men have, in the past, derided Aung San Suu Kyi. But her stance on the Rohingya issue pleases them. She has described the problems in Rakhine state as 'terrorism' and written-off reports of ethnic cleansing as an "iceberg of misinformation." One Monk told me "she is on the right side in this Bengali (the pejorative term for Rohingya) issue."

Aung San Suu Kyi does not control the military. The compromise that allowed for democratic elections involved ceding control over the army, borders and domestic security to the military. But this does not absolve a Nobel Laureate from the responsibility to call for tolerance and an end to abuses. Knowing the military as well as she does, Aung San Suu Kyi knows precisely what they are capable of in Rakhine state. The 'iceberg of misinformation' line is disingenuous, to put it mildly. Some diplomats have suggested she will not speak out where she believes private pressure is best. Private pressure has achieved nothing.

The blame for ethnic cleansing lies with the military and its chief, General Min Aung Hlaing. But it is Aung San Suu Kyi's government that has cooperated in the banning of independent aid workers and journalists, and refused to utter a single public word urging restraint on the military. True, in a country where the majority regards the Rohingya as interlopers, she risks political isolation by speaking out.

But five years ago over 100,000 Rohingya were driven out and she said nothing. She was not in government then, not tied to the military.

There have been many times since then when she could have spoken but chose to stay silent. Leadership involves unpleasant compromises. But it also means speaking out when your country is being consumed by catastrophe. Now it is the military hawks and Buddhist hardliners who are in the ascendant. Perhaps the time when Aung Suu Kyi might have made a difference, has passed.

Fergal Keane is a BBC Special Correspondent
ELKO  Join the Mining Rocks tour 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 3 to explore mining-related careers as well as certificate and degree programs available to those interested in becoming a part of Nevadas mining industry.

Great Basin College CTE College Credit Program, in collaboration with Barrick, offers an opportunity to tour the Goldstrike mine site and the technical labs at GBC.

All interested parties must complete the Mining Rocks application available online at www.gbcnv.edu/cte/events.html. Applications are due Sept. 25.

The variety of careers and programs discussed during the tours includes electrical systems technology, diesel technology, welding technology, mining, engineering, natural resources, earth sciences, office technology, human resources, and business administration.

This opportunity is open for 45 participants. Interested high school students who want to participate will have first priority. GBC students and community members who are interested in attending GBC are also encouraged to apply.

For information, call Jonica Gonzalez at 753-2303 or email jonica.gonzalez@gbcnv.edu.
Model Gemma Ward attends the Sydney premiere of `The Black Balloon' at the Dendy Opera Quays on February 27, 2008 in Sydney, Australia (Photo by Gaye Gerard/Getty Images)

A man in his 20s has been arrested after a woman was found dead in the home owned by Australian supermodel Gemma Ward.

It is believed the woman had been renting the home in the exclusive Northern Beaches suburb of Avalon with her son who lived outside in the garage.

According to The Australian, police were called to the home at 10.45am local time on Sunday following "information a woman had been injured".

They reportedly found the woman's body at the scene.

Expand Close The home in Marine Parade, Avalon Beach on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Picture: REA / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp The home in Marine Parade, Avalon Beach on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Picture: REA

A police statement said a man in his 20s was arrested 2km away from the home in the suburb of Ruskin Rowe.

The man is helping police with their inquires.

Expand Close Gemma Ward (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images) / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Gemma Ward (Photo by Don Arnold/Getty Images)

Initial inquiries suggest the pair are known to each other."

The Australian Daily Telegraph reports that Ms Ward and her husband, David Letts, purchased the property for AUS$1.6 million and have rented it out while living with his parents in Newport.

It is understood that they had not seen the tenants for six months.

Ms Ward told Daily Telegraph: My heart goes out to the family and all involved in this tragedy.

Its heartbreaking news.

Ms Ward (29) made her modelling debut when she was 15-years-old.

Expand Close Gemma Ward arrives ahead of a YSL beauty launch at Sydney Town Hall on April 14, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images) / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Gemma Ward arrives ahead of a YSL beauty launch at Sydney Town Hall on April 14, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

In 2007, the Perth-born model dated late Australian actor Heath Ledger, when she was aged 20.

She's now married to Letts and the pair have two children; daughter Naia, (3) and seven-month-old son Jett.

Ward was named Forbes' highest earning model in 2007 but she quit the industry in the same year.

At her peak she commanded US$25,000 a show and fronted 24 Vogue covers.

She made a return in 2014, walking for the Prada Spring/Summer 2015 show.
Emergency services personnel and staff from Thames Water and the local authority of Greenwich at Alwold Crescent in Lee, south London, where residents were rushed to hospital with nausea and vomiting amid fears of a chemical incident. Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire

A cordon put in place by fire crews at Alwold Crescent in Lee, south London, where residents were rushed to hospital with nausea and vomiting amid fears of a chemical incident. Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire

A feared chemical incident in south London that left residents with nausea and vomiting is believed to be a gas leak, emergency services have said.

Emergency crews were called to Alwold Crescent in Lee amid fears locals may have suffered an allergic reaction.

Several people were taken to hospital and six homes were evacuated in Alwold Crescent, Lee, on Sunday morning while the London Fire Brigade tried to identify the possible cause.

Residents at one end of the crescent were asked to leave their homes at around 11.30am and a cordon was erected.

Expand Close A cordon put in place by fire crews at Alwold Crescent in Lee, south London, where residents were rushed to hospital with nausea and vomiting amid fears of a chemical incident. Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp A cordon put in place by fire crews at Alwold Crescent in Lee, south London, where residents were rushed to hospital with nausea and vomiting amid fears of a chemical incident. Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire

Three fire engines were on the scene, as well as representatives from Thames Water, but no unusually high levels of any dangerous chemicals were found.

Wayne Higgins, 50, said that he and his neighbours had been feeling unwell for the last few days.

"The fire brigade have been here checking if there are chemicals or toxins. For the moment we don't know when we will be allowed back in - not until they find out the cause of the problem.

"We just assumed everyone had a cold or something was going round."

Mr Higgins said they didn't start thinking it was a gas leak until yesterday evening.

Kevin Dobbins, 31, who was also asked to leave his home, said: "I haven't smelled anything or felt the effects myself. I know there were neighbours who were experiencing sickness and those who were smelling gas a few days ago.

"They did pull us all together and had a meeting with us saying you will have to leave the area and it could be throughout the night and in to tomorrow.

"They are still uncertain. They have done checks and they've ruled out a few different things.

"They believe it could be a small gas leak."

A spokeswoman for the London Fire Brigade said: "We were called to the smell of chemicals and we've swept the area to check for raised levels (of gas or chemicals).

"We haven't found any raised levels and we are handing over to the gas board."

A spokeswoman for Southern Gas Network (SGN) said: "SGN is supporting the ongoing multi-agency response into the incident at Lee in south east London.

"Following reports of residents feeling unwell, around six properties were evacuated by the London Fire Brigade earlier. The situation is being investigated by the emergency services, utility companies and the local authority.

"As part of the ongoing investigation, SGN engineers are carrying out routine safety checks in the immediate area."
Four young American tourists were attacked with acid by a 41-year-old woman at a French railway station yesterday but police have dismissed any extremist link.

Two of the four women suffered facial injuries during the late morning attack at Marseille's Saint Charles station and one of the two also had a possible eye injury.

All four of the women, who are in their 20s and students at Boston College in Massachusetts, were hospitalised, two of them for shock. The suspect was taken into police custody.

The suspect did not make any extremist threats or declarations during the attack and there are no indications the woman's actions were terror related.

The Marseille fire department was alerted just after 11am and dispatched four vehicles and 14 firefighters to the railway station.

Two of the Americans were "slightly injured" with acid but did not require emergency medical treatment at the scene.

Regional newspaper 'La Provence', quoting unidentified police officials, reported that the suspect had a history of mental health problems and noted that she remained at the site of the attack without trying to flee.
Police say Scott Schultz was armed with a knife

The lawyer for the family of a student killed by Georgia Tech police has said the officer who fired the fatal shot over-reacted.

Campus police killed 21-year-old Scout Schultz, who they claim was advancing on officers with a knife.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Schultz refused to put down the knife and kept moving toward officers early on Sunday outside a dormitory.

Attorney Chris Stewart told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution he thinks Schultz was having a mental breakdown and did not know what to do.

Mr Stewart and the student's family have scheduled a news conference for later on Monday.

WSB-TV reported the weapon involved, still on the ground when its news crew arrived, appeared to be a "metal, flip-open, multi-tool knife".

Schultz was president of Pride Alliance at Georgia Tech.

Authorities have not identified the officer who shot him.

AP
Mr Tsipras said Greece is on course to meet key conditions (AP)

Greek prime minister Alexis Tsipras has urged ministers to get on with reforms demanded by creditors so the country can exit its bailout programme in 10 months.

Mr Tsipras told his cabinet in televised remarks that the country was on course to outperform budget targets set by creditors for the second year running.

He said Greece's surplus, before debt servicing costs are taken into account, will be higher than the 1.75% of annual GDP demanded.

Bailout inspectors are currently in Athens but negotiations on the next batch of loans are not expected to start until November.

Conditions for future disbursements include the continued reorganisation of public sector personnel and further deregulation of the state-dominated energy utility.

The previous bailout review was delayed by more than six months.
Iran has manufactured a 10-ton bomb comparable in scale to the United States "Mother of All Bombs", one the country's most senior general's has claimed.

"These bombs are at our disposal, can be launched from aircraft and they are highly destructive," said General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, Airspace Commander of Irans Revolutionary Guards

Speaking to the country's state news agency FARS, Mr Hajizadeh described the bomb as the father of all bombs inviting comparison with the Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb (MOAB) which the US Air Force dropped on tunnels in Afghanistans Nangarhar province from an MC-130 aircraft in April.

The MOAB is the largest non-nuclear weapon ever used in combat by the US military, Its explosion is equivalent to 11 tons of TNT and the blast radius is a mile wide

The announcement comes as tensions are escalating between the US and Iran over the development of its military program.

Earlier this month, Iranian state media claimed the countrys military had tested its first ever long-range missile defence system.

In 2015, crippling economic sanctions on Iran were lifted after the government agreed to restrict development of its nuclear weapons.

The United Nations (UN) resolution, signed by five members of the security council, called upon Iran not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology.

Iran maintains it has complied with the UN accord. However, the Trump administration has repeatedly said it believes Iran is violating the terms of the agreement.

In our view, Iran is clearly in default of these expectations of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, Mr Tillerson said this week at a press conference in London.

The countrys actions were threatening the security of those in the region as well as the United States itself, he continued.

Retaliating, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said: "The Iranian nation is standing firm and any wrong move by the domineering regime regarding the [nuclear accord] will face the reaction of the Islamic Republic."
With the sudden influx of people moving into Nevada Territory following the discovery of Comstock Silver, the need to provide water for agriculture to feed the new population became apparent. Western Nevada is basically a desert region with little natural precipitation. Snowfall in the high Sierra Nevada mountains ran off with the spring thaws and flowed to the desert lakes to such as Pyramid, Walker and the Stillwater Marsh.

Having grown up in a ranching and farming family, I have always been aware of the importance of adequate water being available for irrigation purposes. My Great Grandfather, Pietro Cassinelli, was once shot in the back in a dispute over water rights in the early 1900s. Fortunately, he survived the incident. In my own landscaping business, now run by my son, John, much of our work has been installation of both agricultural and residential irrigation systems.

As early as 1867, John Wesley Powell conducted a series of expeditions to locate places throughout the West where run off water from snow melt and spring rains could be captured in dams built along the rivers for storage of irrigation water. The demand for agriculture crops such as hay, grain and vegetable crops prompted farmers and ranchers in the valleys bordering rivers and streams to develop irrigation ditches to irrigate their fields. The Truckee Meadows, Carson Valley, Dayton Valley, Lovelock, Mason Valley and others soon began producing local crops that supplemented costly imported crops from California.

Taking water for irrigation from local rivers was not sufficient to produce reliable crops on a sustained basis due to low stream flow during drought years such as during the 1890s and in the late summer months. Following the advice of John Wesley Powell, local farmers organized to prove the benefits of building irrigation projects that could store water for the drier years.

Congressional Representative from Nevada, Francis G. Newlands took the lead and in 1902 when he introduced legislation to fund major irrigation projects in 13 western States including Nevada. This resulted in the creation of many of the mountain dams and reservoirs still in use today for irrigation and as a side benefit, they created fishing and recreation opportunities for everyone. The government agency created by this act eventually evolved into the United States Bureau of Reclamation.

Francis Newlands had moved to San Francisco in 1870 and worked for William Sharon, the Bank of California executive who had financed much of the Comstock Lode development in Virginia City, Nevada. Newlands married William Sharons daughter who later died in 1882. In 1888 he moved to Nevada where he remained associated with William Sharon and continued his law practice.

Newlands served as a Democratic Representative for Nevada from 1893 to 1903. He was an active representative and participated in writing an act to create the territory of Hawaii and of course, the famous Newlands Reclamation act for funding irrigation projects throughout the American West.

Francis Newlands became a United States Senator for Nevada in 1903 where he was a member of the Senate subcommittee investigating the 1912 sinking of the RMS Titanic. He remained a Senator from Nevada until his death on December 24, 1917.

On the darker side, Francis Newlands was an avowed racist who in 1912, ran for President on a platform to amend the Constitution to disenfranchise black men and limit immigration to whites only. In 1916, Newlands was the only Democratic Senator to vote against the nomination of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis. The only reason given for this rejection was that Brandeis was Jewish.

During his time in the U.S. Senate, Newlands maintained a mansion home in Reno. The home is one of only six properties in the State of Nevada designated as a National Historic Landmark. During the 1920s and 1930s, the house was used by several notable people awaiting divorce papers to be finalized by local divorce lawyer George Thatcher. He had purchased the home in 1920 to enhance his divorce practice.
Violent protests took place following largely peaceful demonstrations during the day (AP)

Demonstrators have linked arms and marched quietly through St Louis city centre in protest over the acquittal of a white former police officer in the killing of a black suspect, following another night of unrest which led to more than 80 arrests.

The latest action follows three days of peaceful protests and three nights of violence in the Missouri city which has been rocked since Friday, when a judge announced he found Jason Stockley not guilty over the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith.

Hundreds of riot police mobilised on Sunday night, arresting more than 80 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism.

The arrests came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

Interim Police Chief Lawrence O'Toole said at a news conference: "I'm proud to tell you the city of St Louis is safe and the police owned tonight."

Earlier on Sunday, more than 1,000 people had gathered at police headquarters then marched without trouble through St Louis city centre, the upmarket Central West End, and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City.

Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St Louis County.

By nightfall, most had gone home.

The 100 or so people who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched back toward the central area. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers.

One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital.

Soon afterwards, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, with officers making arrests and seizing at least five weapons, according to Mr O'Toole.

Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a city boulevard chanting: "Whose street? Our street" - a common refrain used by the protesters - after clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

"We're in control. This is our city and we're going to protect it," Mr O'Toole said.

Mayor Lyda Krewson said at the same news conference that "the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive" and that "destruction cannot be tolerated".

Early on Monday, more than 150 protesters marched arm-in-arm, some carrying signs, to City Hall.

Police turned traffic away as the marchers blocked a busy St Louis street during the rush hour crush.

The recent St Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson. The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

Protest organiser Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out. He said that while change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, years of oppression has caused some to turn violent.

"I do not say the (violent) demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best," Mr Bell said.

State representative Bruce Franks, a Democrat who has participated in the peaceful protests, said those behind the violence "are not protesters".

AP
Undated photo provided by US Fish and Wildlife showing walrus cows and yearlings resting on ice in Alaska (AP)

An environmental activist is calling for anchored rafts in the ocean as resting platforms for walruses after stampedes killed 64 animals on Alaska's northwest coast.

Rick Steiner, an environmental consultant and former University of Alaska marine conservation professor, pitched the idea two years ago.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service concluded it did not have the money or manpower to provide artificial resting platforms that might give a few walruses relief but not benefit the population as a whole in the absence of ice in the Chukchi Sea.

Mr Steiner said he was again asking the agency to take the lead in a raft pilot project because sea ice continues to diminish and artificial platforms could provide alternatives to huge herds gathering on the Alaska coast.

"If it doesn't work, then it doesn't work," Mr Steiner said.

Fish and Wildlife Service spokeswoman Andrea Medeiros said the raft suggestion was thoroughly reviewed in 2015 and the agency position has not changed.

Walruses dive hundreds of feet to eat clams and other molluscs on the ocean floor, but they cannot swim indefinitely.

Historically, sea ice has provided a platform for female walruses and their young to rest, nurse and dive north of the Bering Strait.

In recent decades, however, sea ice has diminished due to global warming.

The ice in late summer has receded far beyond the shallow continental shelf, over water more than 10,000 feet deep, too deep for walruses to reach the ocean bottom.

Instead of staying on sea ice over deep water, walruses have gathered in Russia and Alaska, with 35,000 or more animals sometimes packed shoulder to shoulder on a beach.

If a herd is spooked by a polar bear, hunter, airplane or boat, calves can be crushed by mature females weighing more than a ton.

A survey last week near the Inupiaq Eskimo village of Point Lay found 64 dead walruses.

With the amount of carbon in the Earth's atmosphere and oceans, Mr Steiner said, the loss of sea ice will continue.

He proposes a pilot project of perhaps three rafts anchored a few miles off Point Lay and 80 miles offshore at Hanna Shoal, an important walrus feeding area.

Giant fuel barges are readily available for sale or lease that could be painted white to simulate large pan-ice floes, outfitted with artificial turf and lowered with seawater in their ballast tanks to a level where walruses could pull themselves up with their tusks, as they do with sea ice, Mr Steiner said.

"The solution here is a little bit of biology, a little bit of naval architecture, and good old, standard tug-and-barge operation," he said.

Former Fish and Wildlife Service regional director Geoffrey Haskett said in his response to Mr Steiner in 2015 that the agency's two major management concerns were disturbances to walruses on shore and stress placed on them by having to swim greater distances from the coast to feeding areas.

The agency and Point Lay residents have combined to discourage flights and hunters near herds that could cause stampedes.

Mr Steiner called the effort heroic but "simply not enough".

AP
US president Donald Trump has made his debut at the United Nations, using his first moments at the world body to urge it to reduce bureaucracy and costs while more clearly defining its mission around the world.

But while Mr Trump chastised the UN - an organisation he sharply criticised during his election campaign over its spiralling costs - he said the United States would "pledge to be partners in your work" in order to make the UN "a more effective force" for peace across the globe.

Mr Trump said: "In recent years, the United Nations has not reached its full potential due to bureaucracy and mismanagement."

In a rebuke over the UN's ballooning budget, he added: "We are not seeing the results in line with this investment."

The US leader pushed the UN to focus "more on people and less on bureaucracy" and to "not be beholden to ways of the past which were not working".

He also suggested that the United States is paying more than its fair share to keep the New York-based world body operational.

He also complimented the steps the United Nations had taken in the early stages of the reform process and made no threats to withdraw his nation's support.

His measured tone stood in stark contrast to his last maiden appearance at a global body, when he stood at Nato's new Brussels headquarters in May and scolded the member nations for not paying enough and refusing to explicitly back its mutual defence pact.

While running for office, Mr Trump labelled the UN as weak and incompetent, and not a friend of either the United States or Israel.

But he has softened his tone since taking office, telling ambassadors from UN Security Council member countries at a White House meeting this year that the UN has "tremendous potential".

Mr Trump more recently has praised a pair of unanimous council votes to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its continued nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

Mr Trump's big moment comes on Tuesday, when he delivers his first address to a session of the UN General Assembly.

The annual gathering of world leaders will open amid serious concerns about Mr Trump's priorities, including his policy of "America First", his support for the UN and a series of global crises.

It will be the first time world leaders will be in the same room and able to take the measure of Mr Trump.

The president praised UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who also spoke at the reform meeting and said he shared Mr Trump's vision for a less wasteful UN to "live up to its full potential".

The US has asked member nations to sign a declaration on UN reforms, and more than 120 have done so.

The president also kicked off his maiden speech at the world body by making a reference to the Trump-branded apartment tower across First Avenue from the UN.

Nikki Haley, the US ambassador to the UN, said Mr Trump's criticisms were accurate at the time, but that it is now a "new day" at the UN. An organisation that "talked a lot but didn't have a lot of action" has given way to a "United Nations that's action-oriented", she said, noting the Security Council votes on North Korea this month.

Mr Guterres has proposed a massive package of changes, and Ms Haley said the UN is "totally moving toward reform".

AP
MOUNT PLEASANT- Part of North Carolina Highway 49 was closed this morning after a motor vehicle accident with a pin-in.

According to the Town of Mount Pleasant Fire Departments Facebook page, the accident occurred between Fisher Road and Barringer Ct.

Emergency personnel helped to free the patients from their vehicles and they were transported to the hospital.

No further information is available at this time.

There were at least two other serious crashes in Cabarrus County Monday, according to law enforcement.

More details will be added as information becomes available.
WASHINGTON  Americas middle-class incomes shot up by 3.2 percent last year, after a decade marked by the Great Recession, weak economic growth and widespread unemployment.

The U.S. Census Bureau, which compiles economic statistics throughout the country, reported Tuesday that U.S. median household income climbed to $59,039 in 2016.

Thats a hefty increase over the previous years $57,230 median income figure.

The nations poverty rate also fell last year to 12.7 percent, with 40.6 million people in poverty, 2.5 million fewer than in 2015, the report said.

However, the bureau said the poverty numbers were not statistically different from the 2007 rate (12.5 percent), the year before the most recent recession.

Large numbers of Americans are still at or below the poverty income line, and a number of cities are still losing jobs.

Some 1.3 million people joined Americas civilian labor force over the past year, says a survey report by the 24/7 Wall St. website.

But the recovery has eluded some parts of the country. Approximately 1 in 5 U.S. metro areas lost jobs over the past 12 months, and the number of employed persons has decreased by at least 1 percent in 25 of the countrys 388 metropolitan areas, writes Steven M. Peters.

Among some of the job losers: Binghamton, New York, where unemployment is 5.5 percent; Williamsport, Pennsylvania, 5.6 percent; Lafayette, Louisiana, 5.7 percent; Rocky Mount, North Carolina, 6.1 percent; Danville, Illinois, 6.7 percent; Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana, 5.7 percent; Rockford, Illinois, 6.3 percent; Elmira, New York, 5.5 percent; and Casper, Wyoming, 5.2 percent.

Lagging job growth was clearly evident last month when the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the economy produced a lower-than-projected 156,000 jobs.

Wage growth was pathetic, too. Average hourly wages increased a mere 3 cents in August.

Earlier this summer, the BLS appeared much too eager to report that job growth was exploding under the Trump administration, only to see some of its estimated numbers shrink under subsequent revisions.

It turns out that the number of jobs created in July and June have been revised downward by 41,000.

Since he was sworn into office in January, Trump says his job creation record has been excellent.

But economic reporters put his score at around 170,000 jobs a month, a rate that can only be called mediocre.

The Obama economy limped through his presidency at an average 2 percent growth rate, because he raised taxes that crippled new business creation and investment, and unleashed a tidal wave of suffocating regulations on businesses large and small.

The Trump economy badly needs two things to lift it out of the eight-year Obama lethargy: across-the-board tax cuts and global trade expansion. Trump is working hard on the first, and still fighting against the second.

Throughout the first half of this year, Trump has been pushing Congress to give him a sweeping tax cut reform bill, without offering any detailed specifics.

Lets be blunt about this: The House and Senate will write whatever tax bill Congress may pass, if it passes anything. And that is very much in doubt right now.

Internal debates in committee rooms are all about the rate cuts, but also about making the bill revenue-neutral by eliminating or reducing loopholes, deductions and other forms of corporate welfare.

That would raise revenue on certain sectors in exchange for lower tax rates overall. President Reagan won that fight against a Democratic-run House by appealing to a small, pro-growth group of Southern conservative Democrats.

Trump is using Reagans playbook by also reaching out to Democrats who face tough re-election prospects back home. As a party, they are overwhelmingly opposed to any and all tax cuts, but Trump needs only a small number of deserters to send him the bill he wants.

Bashing free-trade deals has long been the bible of the Democratic Partys socialists, leftists, liberals and its union bosses. Their mantra: It kills jobs and makes us poorer.

Trump grabbed the issue and ran with it, scaring voters about the trade deficit. But over a century or more of trade deals, America has grown wealthier, not poorer, and stronger, not weaker.

Earlier this month, the U.S. and Mexico met in four days of talks about changing the rules of the North American Free Trade Agreement, with the U.S. focusing on the trade deficit.

But that doesnt reflect the stream of capital investment flowing between us and our trading partners. The trade deficit is a macroeconomic issue. It has nothing to do with trade policy, says Jaime Zabludovsky, who helped negotiate NAFTA in the 1990s.

Trade helps U.S. firms to become more competitive in what we make and sell here at home, and benefits hard-pressed consumers with less expensive products.
Keystone Realtors IPO Day 1 subscription Live status Keystone Realtors IPO with an issue size of Rs 635 Crore shows restrained response today. The offer is subscribed only 6% on the day one with 5,82,309 total bids received against 86,47,858 bids... November 14, 2022 | 4:11 pm

Inox Green Energy Services IPO of Rs 740 crore receives mild response from investors on day 2. The issue was subscribed 46% on Day 1. According to BSE data, investors made 4,67,21,280 bids out ... November 14, 2022 | 3:55 pm

Markets end the day in red Indian markets had a range-bound day today. Markets ended the day in red. Nifty 50 ended, down by 20.55 points. Sensex ended, down by 170.89 points. Top Gainers today were Hindalco,... November 14, 2022 | 3:45 pm

Fusion Microfinance IPO to list tomorrow Following the allotment, The IPO of Fusion Microfinance will list on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. The response to the public issues worth Rs. 1,104 crores has been relatively moderate with 2.95 ... November 14, 2022 | 3:27 pm

Vascon Engineers inks JV agreement for commercial project in Kharadi, Pune Vascon Engineers Limited has entered into a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) on Monday. Vascon has signed the JDA with Landowner to develop a commercial project at Kharadi a well-es... November 14, 2022 | 3:04 pm
Star kid Vivek Oberoi made a promising debut at the box-office. With RGV's Company, he proved that his passion for acting is why he has entered films. And then came Yash Rajs superhit Saathiya opposite Rani Mukerji and he was declared a superstar.

However, this fairytale of a star kid winning hearts turned sour, thanks to his affair with Aishwarya Rai and the whole feud with Salman Khan in 2003. And he held a press conference in 2003 to clear the air about a lot of issues but it was too late by then. This was closely followed by a rough patch in his career and a few hits and misses.

Pinterest

Even though his films like Shootout at Lokhandwala, Grand Masti, Krrish 3 and the recent Tamil film Vivegam' created a lot of buzzes, but he could not reclaim the superstar status that he once enjoyed briefly.

In a first, years later, Vivek Oberoi spoke to Mumbai Mirror and said,

Pinterest

It was like a fatwa issued against me from the powers that be. Even if I gave a hit, work wouldn't follow. Shootout at Lokhandwala became a huge hit but I sat at home for a year after that.

There were a lot of rumors that he was declining film offers and many of them ended up becoming hits. Talking about the rumors of him refusing Hum Tum, he said,

Hum Tum was offered to me on the exact same day that I was supposed to begin shooting for Kisna which was delayed since I had an accident during Yuva. Some things were just not meant to be.

Talking about this rough patch where he felt nothing was going right, he said,

PTI

When my personal life got messed up, I couldn't keep my eye on the ball."

On the professional front, Vivek is looking forward to venturing into production with Company 2 and he will also be seen in RGV's Rai.
For all those who find that avoiding the act of indulging in their favour alcohol almost an impossible endeavour, there's good news. Scientists have come up with a drug that influences your immune system in a manner that disrupts your desire from drinking at night.

Representational Image

A recent study published in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity revealed that there was a significant reduction in alcohol drinking behaviour by mice, who were given (+)-Naltrexone, specifically at night time when the reward for drug-related behaviour is usually at its greatest.

The University Of Adelaide in South Australia researchers conducted the study on mice and switched off the impulse to drink alcohol by giving mice a drug that blocks a specific response from the immune system in the brain.

Alcoholism Rehab/Representational Image

The objective of the study was to show a link between the brain's immunity and the motivation to drink alcohol at night.

Lead author Jon Jacobsen said that alcohol is the world's most commonly-consumed drug and there is a greater need than ever to understand the biological mechanisms that drive the need to drink alcohol.

"Our body's circadian rhythms affect the 'reward' signals we receive in the brain from drug-related behaviour and the peak time for this reward typically occurs during the evening or dark phase. We wanted to test what the role of the brain's immune system might have on that reward and whether or not we could switch it off," Jacobsen added.

ET HealthWorld/Representational Image

The team focused their attention on the immune receptor Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4).

They administered the drug (+)-Naltrexone (pronounced: PLUS-NAL-TREX-OWN), which is known to block TLR4, to mice.

They concluded that blocking a specific part of the brain's immune system did in fact substantially decrease the motivation of mice to drink alcohol in the evening.

Senior author Mark Hutchinson said that these findings point to the need for further research to understand the implications for drinking behaviour in humans.

theoakstreatment/Representational Image

The study is part of an emerging field which highlights the importance of the brain's immune system in the desire to drink alcohol.
UCOM HAS INTRODUCED FUTURE NETWORK WI-FI 6E ROUTERS

Statement by the Spokesperson on the conflict resolution and reconciliation efforts

Foreign Minister of Armenia to participate in the Fifth Paris Peace Forum

Armenia: EU and Armenia Hold annual Dialogue on Human Rights

Todays Shushi, Occupied and Cleared of Armenians, is a Real Example of Turkish-Azerbaijani Policy of Ethnic Cleansing of Artsakh

Ookla, the the global leader in internet testing and analysis has awarded Ucom

Sweden will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union

Ameriabank: At the Vanguard of Armenia's Banking Sector

STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

SUBSCRIBERS OF UCOMS ALL TIME BEST OFFER TO ENJOY ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders

PACE co-rapporteurs on Armenia concerned by reports of alleged war crimes or inhuman treatment perpetrated by Azerbaijans armed forces

There is still 35% gender pay gap: Sona Ghazaryan

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair

Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan

Google Ad

I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General

I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox

UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS

There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur

EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".

UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT

The statement of the meeting between Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Aliyev, President Macron and President Michel of October 6, 2022

Largest Corporate Bond Program at the Securities Market of Armenia Completed Successfully

The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces

LEVEL UP ONLY FOR STUDENTS: UCOM OFFERS X2 AND X3 MORE INTERNET

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN

This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan
The funeral of Arjan Singh, the Marshal of the Indian Air Force and a legendary fighter pilot, took place today with full state honours in the capital. Singh was the only officer to be ever named Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

Singh died suffering a cardiac arrest at the age of 98 at an Army hospital in Delhi on September 16.

Sukhoi-30 fighter jets carries out the flypast in a 'missing man' formation to bid farewell to Marshal of IAF- Arjan Singh #RIPArjanSingh pic.twitter.com/nY19Hrfwmn  TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) September 18, 2017

The national flag is being flown at half-mast at all government buildings in Delhi today in his tribute.

Arjan Singh's body was wrapped in the flag and was taken from his home to the Delhi Cantonment in a gun carriage decorated with flowers. A journey of 8 km was accompanied by an Air Force Band and a tri-services contingent at the funeral site.

Gun salute & fly past held at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/28xxEpOj4I  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

A fly past of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets and 17-gun salute were also held.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the chiefs of the Air Force, the Army and the Navy paid tributes at the last rites ceremony. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former Army chief Dalbir Singh and BJP leader LK Advani also paid their respects.
Father Tom Uzhunnalil, a Catholic priest who was freed from 18 months of captivity by suspected ISIS militants last week, said that he was never physically harmed by his captors.

AFP

Fr Tom, who hails from Kerala's Kottayam district was kidnapped from a home for senior citizens in Aden, southern Yemen, established by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in March 2016.

"God has been extremely kind to me. No gun was pointed at me," Fr Tom said.

He was freed due to the intervention of Qaboos bin Said al Said the Sultan of Oman, acting on behalf of the Vatican.

AFP

The priest said he had been transferred from Yemen by car to Oman, and then brought by air to the capital before continuing his journey to Rome. The priest said he didn't know his kidnappers' identities or affiliations and believed their motive was ransom, although the head of the Salesian order, Don A F Artime, said they had no knowledge of any ransom having been paid.

The Indian government which were also making efforts to secure his freedom have also haven't revealed of any ransom deal.

BCCL

During his captivity, Fr Tom said he prayed and exercised his mind by reciting Mass by memory. After being loaded into the trunk of a car when he was first kidnapped, Fr Tom said that the tabernacle from the altar inside the senior home was at his feet.

His hands weren't tied, and he was able to reach under the velvet cloth and touch it, confirming that it contained four or five Eucharistic hosts that he had blessed the day before.
Back in 1940, the Indian Air Force, in its seventh year, was operating out of Miranshah Fort in what is today North Waziristan Agency of FATA, Pakistan. The IAF only had some obsolete Westland Wapiti and Hawker Audax biplanes. Its role there was to support Indian Army operations against Pashtun tribesmen. For a century, the British Empire had been at war with "unruly tribals" in those areas. Indian Air Force pilots had also been cutting their teeth at combat by bombing and strafing the "war-like desperados" in that part.

PTI

A young pilot officer named Arjan Singh, all of 21, was also sent out for his baptism by fire. Singh was from Lyallpur (now Faisalabad in Pakistan) in undivided Punjab. And destiny had chosen him to be the second most famous Singh from that place, the first being Bhagat Singh. It was deja vu of sorts for the young flyboy in Waziristan: his great grandfather had died fighting Afghans in the Second Anglo-Afghan War as part of the Corps of Guides, and his grandfather too had served in the same areas as part of the same regiment. So yes, the tradition of fighting was pretty much there in his family.

But nobody could have possibly guessed that he would one day rise to become the only five-star general officer of the IAF. One day, while flying from Miranshah to Razmak, Singh's Hawker Audax was hit by rifle fire from the ground. The plane had to be force-landed in a nullah, and Singh hurt his nose as his head bumped on the control panel.

ALSO READ: With Marshal Arjan Singh No More, Here Are Three Field Marshals India Had Seen So Far

Twitter

What happened after that is told differently by different people. Some say his gunner Ghulam Ali leapt out and ran, not realising that he was running straight towards the enemy, and was brought back by the pilot with great difficulty; others say that the pilot remained with his gunner, who was more badly wounded, until a Gurkha detachment came for their rescue. Whatever the version, a legend was born that day of a 'flying Sikh' with nerves of steel. And the battle scar stayed with him till the very end.

Four years later, Singh was a Squadron Leader and CO of No. 1 Squadron of IAF that was posted to the Imphal sector in February 1944. It was here that he was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross. The Times of India had in its edition dated June 2, 1944, broken the news of Singh winning a DFC and carried a profile of him. The report had also quoted from the award citation: "Squadron Leader Arjan Singh is a fearless and exceptional pilot with a profound knowledge of his specialised branch of tactical reconnaissance, and he has imbued those under him with the same spirit."

PTI

The DFC was presented to Singh in the field by Lord Mountbatten, then the Supreme Commander of SEAC. He was 25 then and only the fourth Indian to win the prestigious medal. When India became free in 1947, Singh was chosen to lead free India's first flypast over the Red Fort, which was jointly put together by the Royal Indian Air Force and Royal Air Force. That was a historic moment and a rare honour for the future Marshal of the IAF he was literally leading his country from Raj to Swaraj. At 45, he became the youngest chief of air staff, leading IAF in the 1965 War. His role there is quite legendary to be repeated here.
Wikimedia commons

The funeral of Arjan Singh, the Marshal of the Indian Air Force and a legendary fighter pilot, took place with full state honours in the capital. Singh was the only officer to be ever named Marshal of the Indian Air Force. Read more





Here are more top news of the day:





1) Rapist Ram Rahim's Adopted Daughter Honeypreet Tops List Of 43 'Most Wanted' For Dera Violence

PTI

Haryana Police on Monday released a list of 43 people wanted for the violence that broke out after Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was convicted in two rape cases last month. Read more





2) India Among Least Policed Countries; Just 1 Cop For Every 663 Ordinary Citizens, 3 Cops For 1 VIP

Reuters/Representational Image

The latest data reveals that some 20,000 VIPs have on average three cops to protect each of them while there is a huge shortage of policemen for ordinary citizens. Read more





3) Ryan School Reopens 10 Days After The Murder Of 7-Year-Old Boy, Parents Apprehensive

BCCL

The Ryan International School reopened today after the Haryana government suspended the management and appointed Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh as its new administrator. Read more





4) Party's Over! Goa To Ban Drinking In Public Places, Offender To Be Fined

bccl/representational image

Chief minister Manohar Parrikar has said that the state government has decided to ban consumption of liquor in public places and would issue a notification by next month. Read more





5) Unidentified Men Mix Rat Poison In Water Supply At Madrassa Run By Ex-VP Hamid Ansari's Wife

PTI

In an incident which former Vice President Hamid Ansaris wife, Salma Ansari, called shocking and scary, some unidentified men allegedly mixed rat poison in the water supply of Madrassa Chacha Nehru in Aligarh that houses 4,000 children. Read more
The Haryana Police on Thursday said it have arrested three policemen who allegedly conspired to help Dera Sacha Sauda head Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh escape after his conviction.

ap

The policemen  two head constables and a constable  were part of the Dera chief's security detail during his appearance before a CBI court which held him guilty of raping two of his followers.

Also Read: Dera Sacha Sauda Chief 'MSG' Gurmeet Ram Rahim Convicted For Rape

The cops were arrested in Panchkula where they were called to join the investigation, said Panchkula Deputy Commissioner of Police Manbir Singh.

ap/representational image

They have been booked under the relevant sections of the IPC, including the sedition charge, said Singh.

Also Read: 7 Indian Godmen Who Thought They Were Indomitable Until The Law Caught Up With Them!

"We have arrested three Haryana policemen who were part of the Dera sect chief's security on August 25," he said.

They have been in arrested in connection with the conspiracy to free Ram Rahim on August 25 after he was convicted by the Special CBI Court in Panchkula, he added.

The DCP said Head Constable Amit, Head Constable Rajesh and Constable Rajesh "were produced in the local court today and have been remanded in police custody for three days".

Also Read: How An Anonymous Letter By A Sadhvi 15 Years Ago Exposed Gurmeet Ram Rahim

The Haryana Police had dismissed five policemen who were also part of the Dera chief's security detail. Besides them, three cops from the Punjab police had also been arrested.
Appreciating the role played by yoga legend Bishnu Charan Ghosh and his family members in spreading Indian postural yoga in Japan, the Japanese postal department has released postage stamps on four of Bengal's famous pioneers of the ancient Indian practice.

linkedin/Representational Image

The stamps on Bishnu Charan Ghosh, his son Biswanath Ghosh, daughter Karuna Ghosh and Karuna's father-in-law Asutosh Ghosh were released recently in Japan. The stamps were official showcased here by the Japanese Consul General in Kolkata, Masayuki Taga.

Reuters/Representational Image

"This is the first time Japan has released postal stamps on any yoga experts. It is a result of the constant endeavour by the four yogis to create a close cultural linkage between the two countries by popularising the Indian form of yoga in Japan," Taga said during the event.

Reuters/Representational Image

He welcomed the fruitful exchange between Indian postural yoga and Japanese martial art, stating that both have similar traits and extended good wishes to the Indian martial artists performing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Last week, the US State Department confirmed that two more American diplomats in Cuba have been victims of a series of mysterious attacks in the country. According to the Associated Press, that brings the total number of American victims to 21.

21 diplomats at the US embassy in Cuba have been attacked - Reuters

The US first acknowledged the attacks this August, nine months after its diplomats in Cuba first began reporting strange experiences, followed by varied symptoms ranging from hearing loss and concussions to brain damage. Despite a large scale international probe, the attackers are still at large with no clues as to who they may be.

In addition, the incidents have also left authorities and scientists baffled as to what kind of weapon the attackers are using.

Victims have reported a range of symptoms including nausea, headaches, dizziness, balance issues, tinnitus, nosebleeds, permanent hearing loss, and speech problems, not to mention a few serious cases of brain injuries and concussions. Worryingly, some of those affected reported feeling vibrations during the attacks, while others described hearing high pitch chirping or grinding sounds.

Still others talked about waking up with a ringing in their ears, which faded when they stepped away from their beds. Most say they were attacked at home, while other reported being attacked in a newly renovated hotel in the countrys capital of Havana. However, most of the attacks seemed to come at night.

The weapon responsible may be a type of "Sonic Gun", similar to what the DC superhero Blue Beetle uses

What could be the weapon?

All of these clues have scientists completely stumped as to the method of the attack. The only hypothesis they have is that the attackers have possibly built a sonic gun, a weapon that uses a channelled beam of sound to target victims. However, if it were possible to build such a device, they believe it would be large and incredibly hard to hide, not to mention that the varied range of symptoms exhibited are another discrepancy.

Brain damage and concussions, its not possible, Joseph Pompei, a former MIT researcher and psychoacoustics expert, told the AP. Somebody would have to submerge their head into a pool lined with very powerful ultrasound transducers.

Its still unclear to authorities if the attacks are the work of Cuban actors, particularly as a few Canadian diplomats in the country have also been targeted, despite being on much friendlier footing with the Cubans than the US. The investigation is underway, but it may be a long while before anything is uncovered. And if the probe is eventually successful, just what happens to the possible sonic gun the US uncovers? Its unlikely such technology would just be destroyed or disposed off without being studied to replicate in future.
Edmon Marukyan: Our authorities are scared of different opinions

Edmon Marukyan, MP from the YELK(Way Out) faction spoke about the Armenia-Diaspora Pan-Armenian Conference and why The YELK faction was not invited Today Armenia-Diaspora Pan-Armenian Conference entitled "Mutual Trust, Unity and Responsibility" starts in Yerevan. According to RA Ministry of Diaspora, nearly 1400 Armenians from 70 countries are going to participate in the Conference. But the weirdest thing is that, under the name of mutual trust and unanimity, Armenia's unhandy authorities did not invite a single representative of the YELK Alliance, whereas, social-economic, foreign-policy and other issues of Pan-Armenian significance are going to be discussed at the conference. You ask why they did not invite them. The reason is that our authorities are scared of different opinions and alternative approaches. Thus, Pan-Armenian event is being organized in Yerevan, where parliamentary opposition is not invited, because the authorities are afraid that we will expose the bankruptcy and present different approaches to development of Armenia. As a result, the authorities have even brought the Diaspora to monopoly, misleading many Diaspora representatives by organizing a Pan-Armenian event and leaving those outside their narrow circle. Thus, Armenia-Diaspora Pan-Armenian Forum, under the conditions of mutual mistrust, fake unity and absolute irresponsibility, is held on September 18-20 in Armenia .
Were excited to announce that indmin.com is now part of fastmarkets.com.

A new look and an improved experience means you can still stay ahead of this fast-moving market with price data, news and market intelligence right here on Fastmarkets.

Discover more than 2000 prices, news and analysis in primary and secondary metals markets. We cover base metals, industrial minerals, ores and alloys, steel, scrap and steel raw materials.

If you already have a Fastmarkets account, youll still have uninterrupted access to your markets by logging in with your current details.
The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State has accused the state governor, Ayodele Fayose, of funding the ( IPOB ) group and its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said in a statement on Sunday that the Nigerian Army was performing its constitutional role of preserving the unity of Nigeria and bringing all secessionists and their backers to justice.

Mr. Fayose had urged the federal government to embrace dialogue in the resolution of the Biafran agitation after the Nigerian military declared IPOB a terrorist organisation.

He had earlier accused the government and the military of ethnic cleansing in their handling of the Biafran agitation.

Mr. Olatunbosun said the governors actions and utterances had shown that he was solidly behind any activity that will bring Nigeria down.

On April 26 and as published by The Nigerian Tribune Newspaper and its online publication on April 27, 2017, Fayose said he was working in conjunction with Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, to raise funds for Kanu, stressing that he was taking his support for Kanu beyond showing solidarity in court by raising funds that would be deposited in an account opened in Kanus name, Mr. Olatunbosun alleged.

He quoted the governor as saying that, as many lawyers willing to fight the oppression should join the struggle for liberation from the oppression, alleging that Mr. Fayose was not new to seditious and treasonable activities to bring Nigeria down.

He led a campaign to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja and later to Shanghai, the Chinese capital, to urge the Chinese government not to lend hands in helping Nigeria out of recession, continued Mr. Olatunbosun.

Relentlessly, he led hate campaigns against the symbol of the Nigerian authority, President Muhammadu Buhari, wishing him dead, including hounding and haunting the President across the world, including on his sick bed, and threatening to expose the President on a life-support machine, all these in spite of swearing to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to be loyal to the Nigerian state and her President.

He went further as reported in the media on May 25, 2017 that Ekiti State is now part of Biafra, which drew the ire of several Yoruba groups as reported in the media.

Not done, while Nigerians and indeed the countrys leaders were celebrating Nigerias exit from recession, Fayose was the only governor across the country who dismissed the celebration as a ruse, maintaining that Nigeria was still in a deep economic mess even though in his state, he is the biggest stumbling block to the survival of Ekiti people by diverting all loans he took to pay workers salary to needless projects contracts awarded to his friends companies in which he allegedly has interest.

Mr. Olatunbosun further alleged that Mr. Fayose demonstrated the seriousness of his support for the collapse of Nigeria when he released his telephone number 070300000393 and email: [email protected].com as reported in the media on April 27, 2017, urging all that were interested in the Biafra cause to contact him through the phone number and email address.

All the South-east governors, including the Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, have opposed Kanu in his secessionist activities while Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has warned Kanu and IPOB to stay away from Rivers; but Fayose declared Ekiti State as part of Biafra and that has confirmed the report that he is part of Biafras financiers as he had publicly declared to the media, said Mr. Olatunbosun.

No wonder, just four months after Fayose started mobilising funds for Biafra, thousands of deadly weapons, including military assault rifles, were smuggled into the country but were intercepted by the Nigerian Customs while it was also discovered that uniformed Biafran militants already have military training camps where they are planning deadly assaults against Nigeria after threatening her leaders.

We had earlier alerted the security agencies to the presence of armed gangs and stockpiling of arms in the Ekiti State Government House and his present activities in raising funds for Kanu only confirm that he is part of rebellion against the Nigerian state.

We have always insisted that Fayose is a threat to the Nigerias unity and the economic survival of her people.

The APC spokesman urged security agencies and Interpol to investigate Mr. Fayose in his support for funding IPOB with the latest influx of military assault rifles into the country.

His support for Kanu in funds mobilisation for his treasonable act and the activities of Fayoses media men in promoting the Biafran cause only point to one agenda to destabilise Nigeria and that has proved us right that Fayose has no agenda than the destabilisation of Nigeria to enable him escape all illegal and criminal activities linked to him in recent past, he added.

But Mr. Fayose has described the allegation as baseless, saying his support for the group did not translate into funding of the IPOB.

His Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, who spoke on his behalf, told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday that the APC allegation was an attempt to cover up the federal governments torture and killing of the Igbo people.

He said the governor had the right to express his support for any group, including the IPOB, arguing that the travails of the Igbo people should be the concern of all Nigerians.

The attack by the military on the IPOB should be a concern for all Nigerians, he said. The people are expressing their fundamental rights. Their demands are legitimate.

He denied raising funds for the group, saying that it was the ploy of the APC and the government at the centre to defend their wrongdoings and silence any opposition.

The agitation of the IPOB is as a result of bad governance by the present administration, Mr. Adelusi said.

If there was good governance, there would not have been any need for the agitations; there would not have been calls for restructuring by the Niger Delta agitators, Afenifere and other groups.

Mr. Adelusi further reasoned that the proclamation of IPOB as terrorist organisation was uncalled for, given that far more dangerous groups like the Fulani herdsmen, who had been accused of killing, maiming and raping, had been treated lightly.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper)
A former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to convene a Council of State meeting.

In a Facebook update,on Friday, Mr. Jonathan said his observations indicated that the unrest could mushroom into a full-blown conflict if not immediately checked by the countrys leaders.

Perhaps it is time for the Council of State to intervene and offer its wise counsel, Mr. Jonathan said.

Extant membership of the Council of State, an advisory body for critical national issues, according to Section 5, Third Schedule of the Constitution, is as follows:

The President, chairman of the council;Vice-President, deputy chairman; all former presidents and all former heads of the state, all former Chief Justices of Nigeria and the incumbent President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives.

All incumbent state governors and the Attorney-General of the Federation are also members of the body.

Mr. Jonathans appeal came hours after the Nigerian military proclaimed the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, a terrorist organisation, a controversial move that capped a week of renewed ethnic and tribal skirmishes.

The Nigerian military began its latest physical onslaught against IPOB with the unexpected presence of soldiers at the residence of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in his native Abia State on Sunday.

At least three people, including a soldier and a policeman, were reportedly injured in the aftermath, which remained largely disputed.

The police on Sunday confirmed the death of an officer from the violence,

An official military statement said soldiers were on a parade exercise when some hoodlums allegedly pelted them with stones and broken bottles in Afara Ukwu, Mr. Kanus neighbourhood just north of Umuahia, the state capital.

But Mr. Kanu disproved this, saying through his lawyer that the troops arrival caused immediate panic in the area and also part of an elaborate state-sponsored plot to assassinate him.

The police said the soldiers retreated to their base after the incident and calm had returned by Sunday evening.

The troops returned to Mr. Kanus neighbourhood on Tuesday, with the Nigerian Army stating again that the soldiers were only on a routine parade through the area.

But Mr. Kanus lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, said his client could not be found after the encounter, which reportedly lasted for several hours.

The soldiers also allegedly assaulted residents around the area, with some journalists getting caught in the crossfire for taking pictures.

The military parade was billed as a precursor to the formal launch of Operation Python Dance II, an exercise the Army said was aimed at curbing violent crimes across the region.

Governor Okezie Ikpeaze expressed misgivings about the situation, saying it could have grave security and economic impact on the state.

The governor recognised the supremacy of the Nigerian state and Constitution but urged the federal government to consider the larger wellbeing of the states residents in quelling secession squabbles.

Mr. Jonathans latest statement was similarly tailored to accommodate the duty of the Buhari administration and the plight of aggrieved citizens.

In as much as there may be a need to enforce order, there is a greater need to reinforce our humanity and treat Nigerian citizens humanely whether they be from the North or South, the former president urged.

Nothing justifies the desecration and destruction of religious places of worship or a police station, he added. But even more so, nothing justifies the endangering of human life.

It is yet unclear if Mr. Buhari would be positively disposed to the idea of a Council of State meeting as part of his administrations strategy to curtailing the separatist threats, which had spread to the North Central.

Calls and text messages seeking comments from presidential spokespersons, Femi Adesina and Garba Shehu, were not answered on Saturday.

The administration has been locked in bitter confrontation with supporters of IPOB since Mr. Kanu was first arrested in October 2015 after sneaking into the country from the United Kingdom.

He was charged alongside three other members of his group by the Nigerian government. He was granted bail in April 2017.

Amidst his trial, Mr. Kanu continues to push for Igbo secession, while regularly putting his popularity to test.

On May 30, thousands of residents in the Igbo-dominated eastern part of the country complied with a stay-at-home order which Mr. Kanu urged in memory of the 1967 Civil War.

At least 500,000 Igbo were said to have been killed during the war, which ended in 1970.

Last month, reports emerged that IPOB had launched a secret service to protect its members and preempt any clampdown by security agencies with its own counter-intelligence.

But his exploits have not gone without notice by other ethnocentric elements across the country.

Leaders of Hausa youth-based groups which called for a mass exodus of Igbo from the North in June justified their widely-condemned action as a response to the activities of Mr. Kanu and his group.

The Northern youth later withdrew their threat and assured Igbo of peaceful coexistence in the region beyond the October 1 deadline they initially issued.

Mr. Buhari, who returned to the country on August 19 after 103 days of medical treatment in London, was equally taken notes of IPOBs activities.

Two days after using his August 21 address to reaffirm Nigerias indivisibility, the president ordered military chiefs to immediately neutralise all threats to reaffirm Nigerias indivisibility.

The military swiftly launched the second face of its South-east security exercise, Operation Python Dance II.

The first edition of the exercise ended in December 2016, with military declaring it a huge success over serious crimes across the region.

Fridays designation of IPOB as a terrorist group appeared an actualisation of the presidents order, even though its legality had been put into question by critics.

Mr. Buhari had been criticised for failing to follow a precedent set by Mr. Jonathan, his immediate predecessor who grappled with the Boko Haram sect throughout his tenure.

Mr. Jonathan had procured an approval of the Federal High Court before proclaiming Boko Haram a terror organisation in a May 2013 federal gazette.

The Nigerian military did seem to have obtained a court order before proclaiming IPOB a terrorist group, a move that could contradict the Terrorism Act.

When asked about the legal basis for declaring IPOB a terror group, John Enenche, spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters who announced the proscription Friday, said he was not a lawyer.

Nonetheless, the move appeared to have been backed by South-east governors, who followed with their own prescription order a few hours later.

The governors said Mr. Kanus activities were getting out of control and it was time to put him in check.

Source:( Premium Times )
A heartless man has left many people in shock after he reportedly shot dead the mother of his newborn son during an argument.

A quick-tempered man has shot dead the 34-year-old mother of his newborn son after the couple had a fight early Sunday, cops said.

According to a report by New York Daily , the boyfriend, 31, blasted Luz Cuza in the head outside her home on 147th St. near 133rd Ave. in Jamaica at about 2 a.m., according to police. She was taken to Jamaica Hospital, where doctors tried in vain to save her.

The boyfriend identified as Robert Rodriguez was apprehended by the police a short time later at 115th Ave. and 225th St. in Cambria Heights. They recovered a .40-caliber firearm, authorities said.

Suspect Robert Rodriguez is charged with murder, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal possession of marijuana. His arraignment was pending early Monday.

Cuzas brother, Ray Garcia, was at home with his sister when the crazed boyfriend pulled the trigger. He said the couple had been arguing that night.

I didnt think he was going to hurt her because she just gave birth to his son, like, two months ago, he said.

Garcia was in a separate room when he heard a shot ring out. When I go to the front, my sister is laying on the ground with her eye almost popped out, he said. She was gasping for air.

When I saw that, I knew how much I loved my sister, because I started crying, Garcia recalled, devastated.

I said, Dont worry, Im gonna save you. And I knocked on every neighbors house, because I didnt have my phone with me.

One of the neighbors had already called 911, but the boyfriend had fled.

He was walking away, Garcia said. And he disappeared by the time the cops came.

Police caught up with Rodriguez, who works as a parking attendant in Manhattan, soon after. The couples child, Lucito LaKing, was born just four months ago. Cops said the victims mother will take care of the baby. The victims friend, Jessica Heyliger, 36, said Cuza had worked at a hair salon until the baby was born, and had been doing hair from home since giving birth.

Heyliger said the couple had their issues, but she never expected things were that bad.

Yes, they fought and argued, Heyliger said. But as far as him shooting her in the face, it wouldnt lead to that.

Heyliger said that just hours before the murder she received a text from Cuza apologizing for the barrage of messages she had sent the previous day.

Cuza said she was upset.

Heylinger said that if she had responded sooner or just come over Cuza might still be alive. Cops said there had been no previous calls for domestic violence at the home. Neighbors said the suspects mother came by every weekend to spend time with the child.

The investigation was ongoing Sunday.
Nigeria Undergraduates might be returning back to their institutions soon, as the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU,is looking forward to a fruitful deliberation with the federal government on Monday, September 18, in an attempt to end the ongoing strike embarked upon by university lecturers.

This was confirmed by the unions National President, Biodun Ogunyemi said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Lagos.

NAN reports that lecturers in the nations universities had on August 13 embarked on what they described as comprehensive, total and indefinite strike.

S

The lecturers are protesting the non-implementation of 2013 Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, as well as the 2009 agreement they entered into with the federal government.

We are going into another round of meeting with representatives of the federal government tomorrow, Sept. 18.

We are still on strike. However, we are hoping that we will sort out all the grey areas and hope, too, that the federal government will show sincerity and commitment on their own part.

We have done our own part and we expect them too to do their own with all sincerity.

Should both sides settle whatever issues that have been brought before the house, we will consider putting the crisis behind us and move forward.

So, we are indeed looking forward to a fruitful deliberation tomorrow in order to move forward, for the benefit of all the stakeholders and the nation at large, the unionist told NAN.

Source: ( NAN )
President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived the United States of America to take part in the UN General Assembly.

Nigerias President, Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in New York to join other world leaders for the one week 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) high-level events starting on Tuesday.

NAN reports that the President was accompanied by Govs. Abdulaziz Yari, David Umahi and Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) of Zamfara, Ebonyi and Ondo states respectively.

He was received at the JF Kennedy Airport by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama, and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN, Prof. Tijjani Bande.

The president was thereafter, welcomed at about 8:30 p.m. at his lodge by the Ministers of Solid Minerals Kayode Fayemi, Education, Adamu Adamu, and Industry, Trade and Investment counterpart, Okechukwu Enelamah.

The others were the Minister of State for Environment, Ibrahim Jibril; his Budget and National Planning counterpart Zainab Ahmed, presidential aides as well as members of staff of the Nigerian Missions in the U.S. Buhari will deliver Nigerias National Statement on Tuesday, the first day of the general debate.

He has been listed as the eighth speaker of the 193 Head of States expected to address the General Debate of the General Assembly. The theme for this years debate is Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet.

The president will also join other world leaders at the welcoming reception to be hosted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and hold a bilateral meeting with the UN chief.

Aside other high-level engagement, he will have a lunch meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, along with other world leaders. Nigeria will also participate in high-level meetings on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: Building Momentum for Change, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, a High Level Event organised by AU under its theme of the Year:Roadmap on the Demographic Dividend:From Commitment to Action, among others.

It is expected that the president and members of his delegation will project Nigeria as a strong moral force and responsible member of the international community. Nigerias commitment to global peace, security and development will also be reaffirmed, with the need for increased international cooperation in the fight corruption.

Other priorities for the Nigerian delegation at 72nd UN General Assembly include strengthening human rights institutions, the rule of law, support for internally displaced persons arising from Boko Haram activities and recent flooding and mitigating the effects of climate change.

The Nigerian delegation is expected to also canvass the support of UN member states for the Buhari administrations efforts towards combating illicit financial flows in order to foster sustainable development.
A heartless police officer identified as Inspector Samuel Imana attached to the area command in Warri, Delta state reportedly shot three persons by mistake yesterday.

According to Sapele Olofofo, he was said to be acting under the influence of alcohol. The sad incident took place at a childs dedication.

Two of the victims, one Elvis Kugbere and another man have been confirmed dead, while the last one is in coma at UBTH.

The incident reportedly happened at Ejewo Street, Off Okere Ugberikoko Road, Warri, Delta State. According to an eyewitness Inspector Imana accompanied three (Internet Fraudsters) Yahoo boys to a baby dedication, trouble was said to have started when the yahoo boys started spraying money, the police officer started shooting in display of his loyalty, all of a sudden, mysteriously the inspector who was one of the escort pointed his gun directly at the crowd in close range and started shooting at them.

The first deceased was immediately rushed to First rank Hospital within the area where the Divisional Police Officer,B Division in warri, CSP Anieteh Eyoh and other Senior Officers dashed to see him before he was transferred to Syracuse Hospital.

He later gave up the ghost three hours after losing so much blood. The Delta State Acting Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Andrew Aniamaka, confirmed the incident, noting that the policeman is under investigation and he is being tried for professional misconduct.
While speaking on Sunday when he visited the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Abia council, the Abia state Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, opened up on how God reverted the greatest bloodbath in history in the state.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu said God averted the greatest bloodbath in history in Abia State, following tension in the state over Operation Python Dance II of the Nigerian Army.

Soldiers on the operation clashed with members of the now outlawed Indigenous People Of Biafra, IPOB.

At least one person, a police officer, has been confirmed dead from the incident, with the police saying about 59 members of IPOB have been arrested and will be prosecuted.

Mr. Ikpeazu made his remark on Sunday when he visited the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Abia council to commiserate with journalists over last Tuesdays invasion of the secretariat by soldiers.

The governor noted that the presence of the troops sparked tension across the state.

We are grateful to God for intervening in stopping what could have been the greatest bloodbath known in the history of mankind.

He also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for reposing confidence in Southeast Governors Forum, by giving us a second chance to talk to our people on the need for us to live as one united nation.

He added that the Igbos remained the most widely travelled people in Nigeria, living and conducting businesses in every nook and cranny of the country.

The governor put the estimated population of Igbos in the north at about 12 million, with Borno having the least population of about 50,000 Igbo households.

He said Abia needed peace for business to thrive, especially in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the state.

I am very happy to say that normalcy has returned to the state, he said, adding that Muslims worshipped in their Mosque on Friday in Aba.

He, therefore, urged residents of the state to go about their lawful businesses, assuring them that government would continue to provide adequate security for lives and property.

The governor described the invasion of the NUJ secretariat as unwarranted, saying that journalists do not deserve such an attack.

He said that although journalists faced different hazards in the course of their duty, military attacks only happened under military regime or war situation and not in a democracy.

Mr. Ikpeazu, who complained that the activities of his administration were under-reported, urged journalists to help in reporting the state positively to the world.

He promised to look into some of the challenges facing the Abia NUJ, including taking steps to complete the unions unfinished permanent secretariat.

Earlier, the state Chairman of the union, John Emejor, narrated how the secretariat was invaded by no fewer than 20 soldiers without any provocation.

Mr. Emejor said that Abia NUJ was the only council in the country that still operated in rented apartment.

He described the relationship between the union and the Ikpeazu administration as frosty and urged the governor to take steps to reverse the trend.

The Abia correspondent of The Oracle Today newspaper, Bonny Okoro, was manhandled during the attack.

His Samsung tablet, as well as a cell phone belonging to the correspondent of Daily Times, Sunny Nwakanma, was also destroyed by the soldiers.

The army has since apologised for the attack and pledged to discipline the soldiers involved.

Governor Ikpeazu was accompanied on the visit by his deputy, Ude Oko-Chukwu, Rep. Sam Onuigbo representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, and Anthony Agbazuere.
The diversification of the local economy as strongly advocated by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is beginning to yield good fruits.

India has approached Nigeria to supply it with $1billion (about N367 billion) worth of Pulse Beans.

The Director, Agricultural Business, Processing and Marketing, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Azeez Olumuyiwa, made this revelation at a sensitisation workshop on agriculture held for officers of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

He said that the offer was tabled by the Indian Ambassador to Nigeria, Nagabushana Reddy, at a parley with Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh.

The Indian ambassador said Pulse Beans is a food variety consumed four to five times daily by Indians. He has offered to buy $1billion worth of the products from Nigeria if we can produce it, Azeez said.

According to him, India, the worlds second most populous nation, required 27 million metric tonnes of pulse beans. Nigerias current production capacity for the produce is about 47 million metric tonnes.

Pulse Beans is a good source of iron and is mainly grown in Bauchi, Borno States as well as in Shaki, Oyo State. The federal government has also admitted unease at Chinas plan to begin to use bio-ethanol gasoline across the country by 2020.

The use of bio-fuel, seen as an alternative to fossil energy, is discomfiting for Nigeria as China is one of the major buyers of her crude oil.

Rather than continue to import fuel, China wants to focus on bio-ethanol gasoline production which is a derivative sourced from sugarcane and corn.

Ogbeh, who revealed governments mood on the development, also stressed that two months ago, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, India, Norway and the Netherlands have indicated plans to ban fuel-run cars in about two decades, to reduce air pollution and save fossil fuel energy.

It is not a particularly soothing news for us because with this development, there will be less demand for oil and gas. By 2030, all these countries will be using electric cars. The only way to prepare us from the revenue that will no longer be available from oil is by focusing on agriculture, Ogbeh said in a speech read by his Special Assistant, Winifred Ochinyabo.

The minister said that only 44 per cent of Nigerias 79 million hectare of arable land was currently utilised, while the country requires six million metric tonnes of rice per annual to feed its large population.

The agricultural workshop was held for the NAF officers to encourage them to embrace farming after retirement.

The programme covered orientation on distribution of inputs materials, warehousing, processing of food, livestock farming, bio-fuel production and running of agric extension work. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sadique Abubakar, was represented at the workshop by NAF Chief of Administration, AVM Lawal Alao.
An Islamic cleric in Nasarawa State, Malam Ishaq Adudu, on Sunday, has urged for peace and tolerance in the country, irrespective of ethnic, religious and political affiliations despite agitation by Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Audu is the Chief Imam of Gidi Magoro, Lafia Mosque, made the call in Lafia.

He said peace was a necessary requirement for the development of any nation, hence the need for agitators and other Nigerians to embrace peace and be law abiding at all times in the interest of development.

The cleric urged youths not to take the law into their hands but to report unlawful activities to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.

Adudu also called on community and religious leaders to caution their people against acts capable of causing disunity in the country.

He said as a religious leader, my role is to preach peace, unity and to advise other Nigerians to live in peace and tolerate one another, irrespective of ethnic, religious and political affiliation.

No nation or society can develop in an atmosphere of rancour and confusion. The security challenges facing some parts of the country has affected lives and the socio-economic development of the country negatively.

Peace is non-negotiable, priceless and it is the necessary requirement for the development of every nation. Nigerians should not do anything that will jeopardise the existing peace we are all enjoying.

The chief imam called on security agencies to work collectively toward ensuring peace and unity of the nation and urged citizens to feed security agencies with useful information that would expose culprits of evil acts.

According to him, security is not the responsibility of government alone, hence the need for collective efforts.

Source: ( PM News )
President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Nasir El-Rufai in 2019 have both been endorsed by the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna State for re-elections.

This was made known at a stakeholders meeting with party leaders from the 255 electoral wards of the state on Saturday at the Umaru Musa YarAdua Hall, Kaduna.

Those present at the meeting were, Governor El-Rufai, one of the two senators of the APC from the state, members of the House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly, and political appointees at both federal and state levels.

Shehu Sani, who has been in a protracted dispute with Mr. El-Rufai, stayed away from the meeting. Mr. Sani, a vocal critic of Mr. El-Rufai, belongs to a separate faction of the APC in Kaduna.

The state acting chairman of the party, Shuaibu Idris, who presided over the meeting, thanked those who attended for standing by the party to overcome threats to its unity in the state.

Mr. Idris said party supremacy is a non-negotiable principle for members, warning that the party would sanction members adjudged to be working against its progress and unity.

He said the leadership of the party would continue to operate an open-door policy and embrace members who accept its discipline and uphold the APC manifesto.

At the meeting, Mr. El-Rufai took time to interact with party members and answer questions on government policies and actions.

The governor thanked party leaders and members for their efforts and assured them that the state government remains committed to improving education, health and security, infrastructure, and agricultural development in in line with the APC mandate.

He said the government would continue to implement policies to grow the states economy, attract investments and create jobs.

The Governor appealed for unity in the party and apologized for any offense that any government or party official might have caused to any party member.

Suleiman Hunkuyi, one of the senators, also charged members to close ranks and work hard for the unity of the party.

He recommended that the party develop a road map that will guide it to consolidate its 2015 victory.

He pledged his commitment to strengthening the party and promoting reconciliation.

Source: ( Premium Times )
23 year old Nigerian lady, Selemon Susan Funke, has gotten the heart of fashion lovers online with her newspaper inspired fashion styles.

The Educational management graduate of the University of Ibadan and founder of Susan Rosemon Fashion Brand decided to have a unique fashion style, something to help her differ from others, this decision of hers resulted in her newspaper inspired brand.

Funke, in an interview, described the style as My 2017 Newspaper Series Collection.

She said;

My passion for fashion started since I was a lass. I started learning how to sew at the early age of seven from my mother who also learnt from my grandmother. Its a family heritage. From the early age of seven, I wanted to be more creative than my mum and she really encouraged me, supported my dream and kept pushing me hard to be a better me. She has always been my number one mentor and role model. Today I can do so much with my hands thanks to my mum. Asides from designing and making dresses; I design and make costumes, bags, shoes, hats, accessories. I also do interior decoration and can work with materials of any kind, from fabrics, paper, plastic, glass, beads, and so on. The reason I know so much is because of the drive and passion within me. Learning and creating new designs each day keeps me going in this competitive industry. One of my memorable fashion experiences is the Nigerias Next Top Designer 2016 competition in which I made top 7 from over 500 fashion designers shortlisted. My 2017 Newspaper Series Collection was inspired by God. The truth is, I wouldnt even come this far without Gods divine guidance and direction. With all these gifts that I have, I hope to inspire the upcoming generation to seat tight and be productive. My advice to upcoming entrepreneurs, is to find something you are passionate about, learn it so well and be your own boss. You dont need to have the talent or skill, just be passionate and love what you do. Surely there will be a lot of challenges faced, but with hard work and prayer, you will break grounds.

See more pictures below;

(gistreel)
There are strong rumours that separatist leader, Nnamdi Kanu is plotting to slip out of Nigeria through the land borders as the military search for him.

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum has alleged that the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, who was said to have gone into hiding, is planning to flee Nigeria through the Cameroonian borders.

The organisation said intelligence reports at its disposal had revealed that the pro-Biafran activist was on his way to the Cameroon borders where he could easily escape from Nigeria.

Kanu and top leaders of IPOB were said to have gone into hiding following the declaration on Friday by the Nigerian Army that IPOB and other pro-Biafran groups were terrorist organisations.

The President of AYCF, Mallam Shettima Yerima, in an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday in Jos, said, We are aware that he is scheming to find a way of escape through Cameroonian borders, which is easier for him to move and run back to where he belongs.



He is on his way looking for how to run to Cameroon and that we are aware from our intelligence reports.
A northern group has called on youth in the region and northerners living in the south not to retaliate following the recent attacks on Hausa/Fulani community in Abia State by suspected members of separatist Independent People of Biafra,

The Arewa Youth Assembly, AYA, said video clips circulating on alleged attacks of northerners living in the south do not represent the true situation in the country.

It urged the people to ignore the activities of members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, in the South-east region of the country.

The group had earlier threatened to shut down federal government activities in the Federal Capital Territory if then Acting President Yemi Osinbajo failed to order the re-arrest of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The group had said Mr. Kanu was violating his bail conditions in manners that could affect peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

Mr. Kanu who is standing trial over treasonable offences was granted bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja on April 28 with stringent bail conditions.

In a statement on Saturday by its speaker, Mohamed Salihu and clerk, Desmond Minakaro, AYA tasked northern youth to be law abiding and avoid violent reactions across the 19 northern states.

We wish to condemn in totality the recent attacks on Northerners in Abia and Rivers States.

While we consider this as barbaric, undemocratic and uncivilised, we wish to call on the various security operatives within the southern zones to provide adequate security cover for northerners living in that region

It is very clear now that the activities of the IPOB Leader, Nnamdi Kanu and his followers are only aimed at destabilising the unity of our great country, Nigeria. Hence, the justification of our earlier call for his arrest, the group stated.

We also wish to call on our youth in the 19 Northern states and FCT to be law abiding and not to resort to any reprisal attack as most of the information and videos being aired on social media, are not the true representation of the real situation in Abia and Rivers State.

Our investigation has revealed that some of these videos are events of the past that have nothing to do with the current situation in the southern part of the country, and as such should be disregarded.

The statement also commended Abia and Rivers state governors for their messages of peace and unity and for the protection of northerners residing in their respective states.

We call on other governors within that region to emulate such gestures for the continuous peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians, the group said.

Source:( Premium Times )
Tragedy struck in Okokomaiko area of Lagos on Friday 14th September 2017, after a suya seller was reportedly killed for laughing at a traditional rulers son.

It was gathered that the incident happened after Bashiru Ahmed, son of Sarki Hausawa of Okokomaiko was told by the deceased colleagues that he was laughing at him after he fell into the gutter. Ahmed and his gang threw the suya Sellers meat on the floor and left.

The Suya seller was allegedly shot by two assailants who escaped, after he went complained to Bashirus father, the Sarki, Alh Adamu Ahmed Gaya, who promised to pay for the suya but the owner declined the compensation.

Though the Police are already investigating the incident, as they linked Bashiru Ahmed to the murder incident, however friends of the late Suya man who sighted an associate of Bashiru Ahmed today, pursued and killed him near Alaba rago and moved to the Palace of the Sarki and set it ablaze.

The Area commander Area E Command,Acp Auwal Musa, the commander RRS Acp Tunji Disu and Officers of Ops Mensa were on the ground to maintain peace . Meeting were held with elders of the community to stop further reprisal attacks.
Abolade Abdulhazeez Olakunle popularly known as Deejay Flammzy started his DJ career in the year 2011 under the tutelage of DJ AY.

He got his first appointment at a night club as one of the in-house Disco Jockeys. This fresh start was an opener during his early career stage. In 2012, DJ Flammzy was appointed to host a radio show on City FM 105.1 budded Club Techno. This he did satisfactorily for four (4) years.

DJ Flammzy joined the Mavin Records as an Artist DJ in 2013. This gained him more experience, confidence and exposure.

In 2014, he debuted Belle ft Reekado Banks under Mavin Records. Much later that year, he got a deal with Bheerhugz Cafe as in-house DJ for the Ikeja outlet and in 2015, DJ Flammzy started his own label Dflamz where he dropped his 2nd single titled Modinatu ft Falz and CDQ.

In 2016, DJ Flammzy made a move from City FM 105.1 to Kiss FM 98.9 where he is currently the head DJ and Assistant music librarian.

It is a pleasure to announce his official joining into the Jagged Edge Records. DJ Flammzy is a very creative, ambitious, fun-loving, God-fearing young man.

Projects

With the passion to see others grow, Deejay Flammzy runs a DJ academy where he mentors over 20 Disco Jockeys; some of which are very successful in the industry.

He has played at major gigs like Access Mavin Concert , Afro pop concert , Roctoberfest / Felabration , Reekado Banks thank you concert in Lagos, MTVbase White Christmas party and recently a night with Mavin in Kampala.

He is majorly known for his vast knowledge of music and his ability to mix any genre of music professionally.

Follow @deejayflammzy on all social media platforms.

http://jerecords.com/cartist/dj-flammzy/

For bookings and inquiries please contact:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07062716270

Source: Linda Ikejis blog
The Biafra National Guard (BNG) has reportedly declared they are ready to fight the Nigerian Army to avoid the extinction of The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

This comes days after the Nigerian military declared IPOB a terrorist group following the recent clash in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State.

In a statement submitted to the press, the BNG laughed off the terrorist tag and vowed to fight on until the hope of Biafra is restored.

According to Major Nkuma, the spokesman for the group he tagged the Nigerian government a big joke for making such declaration.

The statement read: Nigerian government can be rest assured of self-defense because it would never retreat or surrender till death lift our hands.

It did not come as a surprise to Biafra National Guard that Buhari through Nigerian military declared IPOB a terrorist organization.

Let us remind Nigerian establishment and Britain that IPOB is not a group or organization- IPOB is the people of Old Eastern region and having declared IPOB a terrorist organization, it implies that every Biafran is a terrorist.

It is sad that we found ourselves in a country we are considered species of terror and a country we have no right to ask for self-rule.

We the Biafra National Guard believe that the declaration is the end of the road for all Indigenous People of Biafra who have been peacefully clamoring for a referendum.

The big question remains; are we going to watch them implement the genocide they just declared? It is important to clearly state that Biafra National Guard has been in existence for years and was not formed recently as claimed by Nigerian military and it is an independent self-defense group; primarily saddled with the responsibility of defending old Easterners as enshrined in 2007 UN charter on the rights of Indigenous People.

IPOB under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is the mother of all pro-Biafra groups and as such, all pro-Biafra activists are Indigenous People of Biafra.

The Biafra National Guard is Indigenous but clearly independent and doesnt subscribe to the peaceful strategy of IPOB but fully endorsed, and respects IPOB because it is Biafra peoples wish.

Biafra National Guard is not likely to take orders from IPOB because IPOB is peaceful unless they decide otherwise- as we have always maintained, IPOB is the representative of the entire people of Biafra.

We the Biafra National Guard carries the responsibility of self-defense in Biafra land; and we are unapologetic, we dont care what Nigeria tags the people of Old Eastern region but they should be restassured that we must defend our lives according the 2007 UN and human rights charter.

As thoughtless as the Nigerian military; a supposed intelligent officer that passed out of school and living in a modern world to tag a peaceful freedom fighting outfit terrorist organization is the height of the joke- Nigeria is a big joke.

The daftness of Muhammadu Buhari has infected the Nigerian military that they both speak out of sheer hatred instead of reason or experience. It is laughable that it took UN to declare Boko Haram a terrorist organization but took a wayward soldier to declare a peaceful or non-violent people a terrorist organization.

The Nigerian military can go to hell because we wont be blackmailed; we will defend our lives at all cost and we will restore Biafra because we are freedom fighters.

Nigerian government and her military must be taken back to the classroom or lecture hall to study history. They should be well taught that Nelson Mandela was never a terrorist; Martin Luther King and Mahatma Ghandi were never terrorists.

They should be lectured that no freedom fighting outfit or fighter has been labeled a terrorist; it is only possible in artificially created Nigeria.

Nigerian government and her military should go to UK and ask them why they never tagged Scots terrorists and they should also go to Spain for Catalonians. Must Nigeria continue to disgrace herself before the world; is Nigeria a world apart from the real world?

Buhari and Britain should be well informed that they cannot blackmail us; if being a freedom fighter is being a terrorist, we are proud terrorists. If being a Biafran is being a terrorist; we are happy to be one but by virtue of our activities, we are not terrorists and can never be.

We are Biafrans; we forbid terrorism; our culture and everything we represent forbids terrorism. Nigerianmilitary is killing our people and we must defend ourselves to avoid our extinction.

Biafra National Guard will never engage civilians but will oppose armed murderous Nigerian forces. We have been labeled terrorist to enable them implement the genocide against us but we will defend our lives. Nigerian government can be rest assured of self-defense because we shall never retreat or surrender till death lift our hands.

Britain must be held to account because they are the brain behind the genocide and terrorist tag; they are backing this second phase genocide against the people of Biafra.

Britain did not tag Scotland agitating for Self-determination terrorists but went ahead to force Nigeria to tag Biafrans who are like Scots terrorists.

We will resist every attempt to implement this second genocide; may God never forgive us if we watched on while ethnic cleansing is carried out.

Source: Linda Ikejis blog
The gallant operatives of Agbor Gha Ihun security outfit in Agbor, Delta state have apprehended a man while playing keyboard inside a church, few hours after we was involved in a robbery.

A 23-year-old man identified as Emmanuel Ndidi, has been apprehended by security operatives on Saturday in a church in Agbor, Delta state, few hours after he led a two-man gang to unleash terror at the Sunny Ojougboh area in Agbor.

According to a report by PoliticsNGR, the suspect who is a native of Ohunmere, said he is a Ghana returnee and was a bus driver in Ghana. He confessed that he delved into robbery so as to earn a daily living.

Speaking on why he did not go back to the driving profession, he said that it was the devil that made him not to venture into any meaningful business except crime.

He appealed that he should be pardoned as he will not steal again. He further confessed that one, Chuks Okpehoro, was his accomplice in the operation were about four handsets and other items were forcefully collected from their victims.

Meanwhile 23-year-old Chuks Okpehoro, on his part, said that Emmanuel invited him to be part of the operation which according to him they carried out the robbery along Sunny Ojougboh area. He confessed that he has been into crime, but he will turn a new leaf if he is freed.
Some teenagers engaged in acts of cultism in the commercial capital of Nigeria have been busted by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

Operatives of the Lagos state Neighbourhoood Safety Corps, LNSC has arrested 11 secondary school students suspected to be cultists. This was disclosed by CSP Adekunle Omisankin, the Divisional Police Officer of Olosan Police station.

According to Omisankin, the suspects who have been in operation since 2013 operating as students between 17 and 18 years old, all belonged to the Gang Star cult and fingered to be terrorizing members of the public with dangerous weapons.

One student-suspect was brought to our station by LNSC on Friday. Our investigation led to the arrest of 10 other students, including a female student, Omisankin said.

The spokesman for the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps, LNSC, Adewale Afolabi, said that they had also arrested a JSS3 student, who was allegedly terrorising members of the public with dangerous weapons such as knives and machetes.

Afolabi said that the suspect, who resides at 243, Agege Motor Road, Ojuwoye in Mushin, Lagos Mainland, was alleged to be a student of a secondary school in Igbo Owu, Kwara.

He had been terrorising the people and students of the area. The LNSC operational team arrested the suspect following intelligence information from the public. He confessed to the crime and also exposed his 16-member gang by giving their names and their hideouts to the LNSC. Afolabi said that the suspect had been transferred to the Olosan Police Station, Mushin for further investigation.
A teenage mother has been nabbed to face criminal prosecution after she left her own daughter to die by abandoning him for one week.

Viktoria Kuznetsova, a teenage mum is facing 10 years behind bars after letting her baby starve to death as she abandoned him for a week so she could party with pals.

According to The Sun UK, the young mother had been living with nine-month-old baby Egor and her husband in the town of Rostov, Russia, before he was called up for military service.

But as soon as he left the house, the 17-year-old put baby Egor in a pram, locked the door and went off to see her mates.

She then spent the whole week partying and staying in college dorms while her baby slowly starved.

The day after leaving the family home, she posted on her social media page: Everything is ok.

This was followed by two other posts. One said: Hanging out with Nastya, Ive dyed my hair black.

And two days later she posted: We argue, were holding grudges and getting angry with those whom we love sincerely and whom were afraid of losing.

According to reports, when dormitory staff asked her where her baby was she told them he was staying with an aunt.

Egors rotting remains were eventually discovered after neighbours became suspicious about not seeing her or the baby for a week and called the police.

They broke down the apartment door and found him motionless in his pram.

During interrogation, the teenage brunette, who faces 10 years in jail, admitted she had left the baby to die because she didnt want to take care of him.

It was also discovered that eight months earlier she had given the tot to an orphanage but that he had been returned to her just two months ago.

Following her arrest, her unnamed husband, who has since filed for divorce, posted a pic of the baby alongside the caption: Thats what my son was like.
Two people were killed and properties destroyed in a clash as an identified Suya Seller and one Bashiru Ahmed who is the son of the Sarkin Hausawa in the Okokomaiko area of Lagos state last Friday, September 14th.

According to a statement released by the Rapid Responds Squad of the Lagos State Police command, Bashiru had accused the Suya man of laughing at him and the suya seller told him he was laughing at the person who fell into the gutter. Bashiru and his gang threw the suya sellers meat on the floor and left.

Angered by Bashirus action, the Suya seller and some sympathizers went to complain to his father, the Sarki, Alh Adamu Ahmed Gaya, who promised to pay for the suya but the owner declined the compensation. The following day, the Suya seller was shot and killed by two assailants who escaped from scene.

The police swung into action and arrested Bashiru Ahmed who is suspected to have had a hand in the murder.

Yesterday Sunday September 17th, friends of the deceased Suya man sighted an associate of Bashiru Ahmed, pursued and killed him near Alaba rago and moved to the Palace of the Sarki and set it ablaze.

The Area commander Area E Command,Acp Auwal Musa, the commander RRS Acp Tunji Disu and Officers of Ops Mensa were on the ground to maintain peace. Meeting were held with elders of the community to stop any further reprisal attacks.

Source: ( Linda Ikeji )
Tactical Insights Blue Line Futures - 29 minutes ago "Navigating the world of futures and commodities with actionable trade ideas, supported by quantitative insights through the lens of a macro framework."

Hogs Gained Last Week Barchart - 1 hour ago Last Mondays trade shot prices high enough that the remaining weeks weakness only limited the weekly gain. Dec and Feb hogs were up 1.7% and 2.3% respectively last week. On Friday, lean hog prices... HEZ22 : 84.950 (+0.71%) HEJ23 : 94.425 (+0.35%) KMZ22 : 94.900s (-0.63%)

Cotton Starting New Week Red Barchart - 1 hour ago Cotton prices come out of the weekend with triple digit losses so far into the new week. Cotton added 116 to 182 points to the upside on Friday. That left the board under the pre-report high from Tuesday,... CTZ22 : 85.54 (-3.02%) CTH23 : 83.51 (-3.27%) CTK23 : 82.86 (-3.16%)

Mixed Morning for Monday Wheat Barchart - 1 hour ago Chicago wheat prices are down into the day session of the new week. KC and MPLS are holding last nights gains for a mixed board for the complex. Wheat futures ended with +1% gains on Friday. KC HRW... ZWZ22 : 809-4 (-0.52%) ZWH23 : 830-0 (-0.63%) ZWPAES.CM : 7.4274 (-0.50%) KEZ22 : 947-0 (+0.37%) KEPAWS.CM : 9.0532 (+0.39%) MWZ22 : 955-2 (+1.00%)

New Week For Cattle Market Barchart - 1 hour ago The cattle complex faded on Friday, with LC futures $0.72 to $1.77 lower. December contracts were 13 cents weaker for the week. Feeder cattle ended the day 0.9% to 1.7% in the red as Jan gave back $3.12.... LEZ22 : 151.775 (+0.16%) LEG23 : 153.225 (-0.02%) LEJ23 : 156.900 (-0.10%) GFX22 : 176.900 (-0.03%) GFF23 : 178.575 (unch)

Beans Red with Nov Expiration Barchart - 1 hour ago Soy markets are gaining in the meal, but down 5 1/4 to 9 1/4 cents in the beans and down 65 to 73 points in the oil so far for the Monday session. Front month soy futures ended the day higher on a bounce... ZSX22 : 1460-0 (+0.31%) ZSPAUS.CM : 14.1014 (-0.75%) ZSF23 : 1439-0 (-0.76%) ZSH23 : 1443-0 (-0.74%)

Red Start for Monday Corn Trade Barchart - 1 hour ago Corn prices stayed in a ~6 cent range overnight but mostly one directionally. Into the day session the market is off the lows with 2 3/4 to 5 cent losses in the front months. Corn futures bounced ahead... ZCZ22 : 654-4 (-0.53%) ZCPAUS.CM : 6.5372 (-0.44%) ZCH23 : 658-2 (-0.72%) ZCK23 : 657-6 (-0.75%)
Scientists exchange between Armenia and China

Radik Martirosyan, President of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, and Van Weyguan, President of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences signed the Cooperation Agreement between the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, on September 18, 2017. An agreement was signed between the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the Yerevan State University on establishing a Chinese Research Center at Yerevan State University. "We are glad to meet at the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia. Our goal is to establish scientific ties with the RA National Academy of Sciences and Yerevan State University. These signed documents will be an impetus for the development of these ties. I invite the president of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia and the YSU rector to China," said Van Weyguan, President of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Academician Radik Martirosyan, President of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia, welcomed this opportunity to deepen scientific ties with the Chinese side. " The agreement that we are signing is the document that interests both us and the Chinese side," Radik Martirosyan said. The Agreement signed with the RA NAS stipulates exchange of scientists, joint scientific-research activities, lectures and conferences, exchange of books and scientific journals, joint publications on scientific research results. Aram Simonyan, YSU Rector, RA NAS Corresponding Member, Ruben Safrastyan, RA NAS Institute of Oriental Studies, RA NAS academician, Ashot Melqonyan, director of NAS Institute of History, RA NAS academician, Gevorg Poghosyan, RA NAS academician, Director of Institute of Philosophy, Sociology and Law of NAS RA, Ararat Aghasyan, Director of the Institute of Art, RA NAS Corresponding Member, Pavel Avetisyan, Director of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, RA NAS Corresponding Member, Vardan Devrikyan,RA NAS director of the Institute of Literature. 18.09.2017.
Update 4/16/18  Triton Construction Ltd. has begun development work on Big Yellows 92,000-square-foot Castlefield self-storage facility. The 12 million project was originally proposed as six stories but will be five. Steel work is scheduled to begin this week, according to a source.

Whilst this should be a relatively straightforward five-story build, we are having to take extra care and adjust our methods to adhere to the strict vibration monitoring that is being undertaken by Network Rail, said Michael Parkinson, managing director at Triton. Were doing everything we can to ensure that there is limited ground movement, avoiding disturbance to the lines.

Big Yellow has owned the Water Street site for 12 years but only recently received project approval from Manchester officials. We had a requirement from the local authority to ensure that we built an exemplar building with high-quality public realm, and that the construction and finish was sensitive to the surroundings, said Nigel Hartley, construction director at Big Yellow. To do so, we needed a company with the experience and technical expertise to deliver despite the complexities, and Triton seem to be thriving on the challenge.

Triton is based in West Yorkshire, England.

9/18/17  U.K. self-storage operator Big Yellow Group PLC is seeking approval to build a six-story facility in Castlefield, an inner-city conservation area in Manchester, England. The Manchester City Council Planning and Highways Committee will review the proposal for the 1.6-acre parcel on the corner of New Elm Road and Water Street on Thursday. The site currently houses the construction compound for Ordsall Chord, an 85M railway project.

The facility will be designed by Mountford Pigott LLP, with Quod Planning serving as the development consultant. If the project is approved, Big Yellow will also create a public realm at the intersection, the source stated.

A report prepared by the city staff recommends the committee approve the application. It stated, "The proposal would provide a high-quality, self-storage facility. It would create new employment opportunities, support the strategic objectives of Castlefield, and contribute to Manchester city center's ongoing regeneration and economic growth."

Big Yellow reported last May that it was having trouble finding available commercial real estate on which to develop new facilities due to housing development in London and Southeast England. The company was concerned it wouldnt be able to expand and meet demand as its current Greater London properties lease up.

A 25,000-square-foot expansion of a Big Yellow property in Wandsworth, England, is underway. The operator also began construction in December on a 55,000-square-foot facility in Guildford, England. Both sites are expected to open in 2018. Information about the projects was released as part of the companys interim financial results for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2016.

Big Yellow Group operates 89 self-storage locations in the United Kingdom under the Big Yellow Self Storage and Armadillo Self Storage brand names, with most concentrated in Greater London. Its total portfolio comprises 5.3 million square feet.

Sources:

Insider Media, Castlefield Self-Storage Facility Set for Go-Ahead

Bdaily, Builders Working on 12M Storage Facility at Manchesters Historic Rocket site

BQ Live, 12M Development Underway on Castlefields Railway Site
Self-storage developer Greystone Holdings LLC has acquired two vacant properties in Northern California on which it intends to build self-storage. The company paid approximately $6.25 million in separate deals. Both parcels are pre-approved for self-storage development, according to a press release from the National Self-Storage Practice Group of real estate services firm Colliers International, which brokered the deals.

In Antioch, Greystone will look to develop a 6.68-acre parcel at the intersection of E. 18th Avenue and Vineyard Avenue. The seller, Recess Development, had intended to build a multi-story facility on the property comprising 86,325 net rentable square feet in 733 storage units and 95 RV spaces. The land was purchased for $3.25 million.

The second site, a 4.59-acre parcel at 9080 San Ysidro Ave. in Gilroy, Calif., was acquired for $3 million. The seller, a private investor, had planned to develop 100,725 square feet of storage in 794 units. The original project included medical office buildings, the release stated.

Tom de Jong, senior vice president of Colliers storage group, represented the buyer in both transactions.

Based in Northern California, Greystone is a private developer of self-storage and other commercial real estate assets.
Inside Self-Storage (ISS) has released a slideshow focusing on key data from its 2017 Top-Operators Lists, an annual compilation ranking the industry's leading players by net rentable square feet. The 2017 Top-Operators Lists: The Self-Storage Industrys Largest Owners and Management Firms Fatten Their Portfolios offers an in-depth review of the numbers behind the ranking, including notable growth and decline in portfolio square footage, and number of facilities among this year's top 100 facility owners and the top 50 management companies.

The Top-Operators List has historically been issued as a single top-100 ranking by total square footage. ISS has broken the data into separate rankings for owned and managed square feet this year to reduce the potential for square-footage redundancy that can occur when using only total square-footage figures for all companies in a single list. For the third consecutive year, the lists feature data on owned vs. managed self-storage facilities for companies that do both, with breakouts for number of facilities, units and square footage for each.

The Top-Operators Lists appear on the ISS website and in the October 2017 print edition of ISS magazine. The lists include the portfolio sizes of self-storage real estate investment trusts, multi-facility operators and management companies. They also feature contact information, expansion plans, and each companys number of locations and units.

Slideshows for several years of previous Top-Operators Lists are also available for free download under Galleries, in the ISS Resource Center.

A package of premium 2017 Top-Operators content, including all the collected data contained in an Excel spreadsheet as well as a PDF file with an analysis report and presentation of the list results and a full representation of the rankings in easy-to-read format, is available for purchase from the ISS Store, an e-commerce website providing research and education products for industry professionals.

For more than 26 years, ISS has provided informational resources for the self-storage industry. Its educational offerings include ISS magazine, the annual ISS World Expo, an extensive website, the ISS Store, and Self-Storage Talk, the industrys largest online community.
STROUD, ON (September 17, 2017)- To only call it action isnt enough. The 2017 Trailers Plus Eastern Ontario Legends Series season has delivered the ultimate of motorsports excitement lap-after-lap, with every turn of the wheel. After a strong year, the countdown is on and only a pair of events remain before the tour crowns its first champion. Next on the agenda is a return to Sunset Speedway on Saturday, September 23.

The popular oval, located north of the Greater Toronto Area, has already played host to a trio of EOLS events, with feature race wins by Matt Haufe, Kevin Foisy and a Saturday, August 5 victory by Robin Jongen in the years second qualifier for the U.S. Legends Asphalt Nationals to be held October 13 and 14 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Bullring. Speaking on behalf of the Eastern Ontario Legends team of officials, that also includes Andrew McFadden, Kevin Foisy and Geordie Ledson, Jeff Drimmie says its quite likely the outcome of the inaugural season will come down to the final checkered flag at the Autumn Colours Classic.

Most of our events have been staged at Peterborough Speedway, but in addition to Sunset, the series has also turned laps at Kawartha and September 9 and 10, our teams headed west to Grand Bend Speedways oval and also ran a test session for a possible future road course date, Drimmie explained. Ever since the first green flag of the year, its been our goal to expose the Eastern Ontario Legends Series brand to as many fans as possible and I think we can call our mission a success.

Drimmie says the east-versus-west events shows at Grand Bend brought some new players into the fold, with U.S. invader Gregory Rudzik taking the Saturday win on the oval after 30 laps of caution-free racing. The combined two division event had a total of nine Saturday races without a single yellow flag. Adam Cuthbertson claimed the victory in the road course test session.

For full details on the Saturday, September 23rd Sunset Speedway event, fans can visit www.sunsetspeedway.ca to get the complete schedule.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/clarkemotorsports

613.968.6410
PETERBOROUGH, ON (September 17, 2017)- Ask even a casual stock car racing fan about the driver who made the number 43 famous and almost everyone will answer Richard Petty. Even though he lost his life in a crash at the Daytona 500 in 2001, Dale Earnhardt will be forever linked to the black #3 car and for many, Jeff Gordon will always be known as the driver of the #24. At every level of the sport, racing is all about numbers. They help fans identify their favourite drivers and let raceway officials track position during an event.

With Peterborough Speedways 25th edition of the Autumn Colours Classic presented by Lucas Oil Products less than a month away, the motorsports number game is ready to take on an entirely different meaning. Taking the checkered flag in Ontarios premier auto racing event is such a coveted achievement, several drivers are expected to run a number of different classes, while some teams will file multiple entries in search of the big prize.

Gary Elliott, the self-proclaimed Canadian Ironman, is looking forward to the Autumn Colours Classic. The event will not only be his 25th of the year, if everything goes according to plan, it will also be his 800th consecutive race for the Dundas, Ontario veteran in a career that began in 1987. Elliott says his current plan is to run with the OSCAAR Modified division, but he hasnt ruled-out bringing his Late Model along as well and running a pair of different classes, as he has done in the past.

Former track champion and ACC winner Ryan Kimball also has plans to climb behind the wheel of multiple entries. The Norwood, Ontario racer, who started on the pole with at New Hampshire Motor Speedway with an American-Canadian Tour machine, has confirmed plans to contend for his next Autumn Colours Classic in the Organics & Glass Late Model field, as well as an OSCAAR Super Late Model.

If past seasons are any indication, there will several duplicate car numbers through the different divisions, said Peterborough Speedway owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse. These teams are familiar with the process and will readily add an X or some other letter to their car to help the scorers and eliminate any confusion.

The 25th edition of the Autumn Colours Classic presented by Lucas Oil Products is scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday October 6 -8, at Peterborough Speedway. The first days activities include technical inspection and practice rounds, along with the first round of qualifying for the Battlefield Equipment Rental 4Fun, Jiffy Lube Mini Stock, Thunder Cars, Organics & Glass Late Model, Pro Late Model and OSCAAR Modified divisions. Young Guns Races sponsored by APC Auto Parts for the Mini Stock and Thunder Car classes are also part of the opening night race card.

Pit gates open at 10:00, with the spectator grandstands unlocked at 5:00 and racing starting at 6:00. Full schedule details are available by checking www.peterboroughspeedway.com as well as the tracks Facebook page and Twitter feed. Fans can also download the free Peterborough Speedway app for their Smartphone.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/clarkemotorsports

613.968.6410
A massive cyberattack on our financial system is coming. This is how it happens. By Ben Sullivan.

Nobody knew the banks had fallen.

Overnight, unknown attackers had hijacked the websites and online customer portals of every single bank in the country. From the outside, nothing seemed amiss. In reality, a cyberheist on an unprecedented scale was underway.

The attackers were stealing login credentials from unsuspecting customers who thought they were visiting their banks websites but were in fact being redirected to bogus reproductions thanks to the hackers modification of the banks Domain Name System registrations. The spoofs even went so far as to display fraudulent HTTPS certificates  the Internet equivalent of a fake ID.

The attackers weren't just pilfering login credentials, though. Customers were infected with data-stealing malware from the hijacked bank websites, while the attackers simultaneously redirected the information of all ATM withdrawals and point-of-sale platforms to their own systems, hoovering up even more credit card information on the nations unsuspecting citizens.

The first to notice were Twitter users. They read and reread the tweets, unsure what the message meant.

Only we can give you security. Only we can give you freedom.

The missive was tweeted out from the accounts of the state banks at 03:00:00 UTC. Likes and retweets racked up by the hundreds, then thousands, in a matter of seconds. Prominent security researchers at first assumed it was just the banks Twitter accounts that had been hacked. They were quickly dissuaded of such a comforting notion: As the retweets passed 10,000, the accounts started linking to data dumps containing the credentials of thousands of transactions collected during the night. A sociopolitical campaign of implanting distrust was in full swing.

Only we can give you security. Only we can give you freedom.

Every news channel across television and radio that morning had its top story: A large-scale hack of the countrys banks had compromised the details of hundreds of thousands of customers. Trust in the already weakened economy took a nosedive.

The worst was yet to come. It wasnt long before the issues at the stock exchange started.

The attackers had infiltrated the exchanges internal network through an obviously exploitable flaw: compromised emails and passwords from managerial administrators working for the banks. When markets opened, the attackers started pulling out sell and buy orders, and triggered a short sell of government bonds. Rapid fluctuations started destabilizing the entire countrys economy within minutes; billions were wiped off the regions largest companies market valuations.

The market shuddered, then crashed. Fraught nerves in the financial industry snapped as trading was suspended entirely, the exchange only realizing its circuit breakers implemented explicitly to prevent volatile crashes were also maliciously altered by the attackers. Sinking valuations sent those who held collateral scrambling to find extra funds; commercial paper markets, the funding lifeblood of many large companies, seized up.

Social media and 24-hour news meant the run on banks came in just hours. Unlike with other crashes seen around the world, however, the national bank hadnt planned any form of emergency bailout. Already underperforming private banks certainly werent prepared. The lines stretched for blocks, but the ATMs were empty.

With the capital citys new smart transport system, the country had inadvertently given the attackers an easy access point to sow turmoil in the streets. Traffic lights stopped working; the metro ground to a halt. Any backup power systems keeping the country running were shut down less than an hour later by another attack, this time targeting water treatment plants and gas stations dotting the countryside. Every centralized government infrastructure system had been compromised to make the attack on the economy more powerful. This was all in the first four hours. The money stopped for two weeks. The effects could last a lifetime.

On the morning of November 12, 2015, cyberforces representing the U.S. and the U.K. commenced a joint exercise, the culmination of more than eight months of meticulous planning. Government and independent cybersecurity researchers, working alongside leading global financial firms, simulated their worst-case cyber scenario: a large-scale, coordinated attack on the financial sectors of the Western worlds biggest economies  one that could easily play out like the hypothetical attack just described.

Operation Resilient Shield, as the exercise was dubbed, was part of a transatlantic political maneuver on cybersecurity reflecting the importance of international cooperation in cyberspace, a necessity in the age of intertwined, globalized, and wholly digital financial infrastructures.

Players of this war game  although the governments of both countries were eager to avoid using that phrase  included the Bank of England, the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, the White House National Security Council, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the U.S. Secret Service, and the FBI. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and practically the entirety of the U.S. intelligence community also participated in the mock doomsday scenario.

While the British government had previously assaulted financial institutions with sustained mock cyberattacks back in 2013s Operation Waking Shark II, Resilient Shield played out a different, seemingly more urgent, strategy. Rather than a what-if scenario, Resilient Shield was more akin to a when scenario. The essence of the operation wasnt to prevent a cyberattack, but to rehearse what actions should be taken when a cyberattack occurs on critical banking infrastructure.

So when, just mere weeks later, tens of thousands of Ukrainians were plunged into darkness following the worlds first large-scale cyberattack on a countrys utilities infrastructure, Operation Resilient Shield seemed almost prophetic. But the intricate, multistage attack on western Ukraines Prykarpattyaoblenergo power supplier  which shut off power for hours to more than 80,000 residents  was just a warning shot. That day, December 23, 2015, would not remain an anomaly.

Cyberattacks, traditionally carried out by gangs of hackers and thieves eager to make a quick buck out of poor Internet security, have now become the weapon of choice for political groups, terrorist organizations, and even the worlds governments and militaries. The target: our infrastructure.

What happens when banks become the target and the money stops?

Banks and financial institutions are not strangers to cyberattacks. A March 2017 report commissioned by Accenture found that a typical financial services organization will face an average of 85 targeted breach attempts every year, a staggering third of which will be successful. Financial institutions across the world are a constant target for attackers, from nation-state hackers looking to cause disruption to old-fashioned criminals looking to steal vast sums of money, says Lee Munson, a security researcher at Comparitech.

Perhaps the most notorious case to date is the February 2016 hack of Bangladeshs central bank, which saw hackers make off with more than $80 million after exploiting vulnerabilities in the Swift global bank messaging and communication system.

The attackers were able to access Swift using credentials of Bangladesh central bank employees, and sent fraudulent transfer requests to move the stolen money to bank accounts throughout Asia. The FBI suspects it was an inside job; other security experts point toward North Korean involvement.

Three years prior to the Bangladesh heist, a South Korean bank (along with three South Korean television networks) was hit by a cyberattack that knocked out mobile payments and cash machines in the country. Investigators concluded that the malware used in the attack, called DarkSeoul, was most likely the work of North Korea in collusion with China. During the attack the Internet servers of Shinhan Bank were blocked, and a handful of other national banks were also hit when several of their branches were targeted with viruses that took their computers offline.

Back in Ukraine, less than two years after the initial attack on its power infrastructure, a cyberattack yet again crippled the country. This time the aggressors didnt stop at the states energy supplier. On June 27, 2017, a devastating strain of ransomware  a computer virus that locks down users files  rapidly spread throughout the country, knocking out computer systems across government infrastructure, airports, and national banks. The virus, dubbed NotPetya, acted just like the WannaCry ransomware that had plagued hundreds of thousands of computers across 150 countries one month earlier.

As a result of cyberattacks, these banks have difficulties with customer service and banking operations, an urgent statement rushed out from the National Bank of Ukraine said during the attacks. The national bank is confident that the banking infrastructures defense against cyberfraud is properly set up and attempted cyberattacks on banks IT systems will be neutralized. The message did little to quell concerns.

Ukraines state postal service was also affected, and metro passengers in the capital, Kiev, were unable to pay using their banks debit cards. ATMs were also offline around the country. In just a matter of hours, the country was in utter chaos. Ukraines state security service, the SBU, pointed the finger at Russia, an accusation backed up by several cybersecurity vendors. The available data, including those obtained in cooperation with international antivirus companies, give us reason to believe that the same hacking groups are involved in the attacks, which in December 2016 attacked the financial system, transport and energy facilities of Ukraine, said the SBU, referring to the original power grid attack. This testifies to the involvement of the special services of [the] Russian Federation in this attack.

While traditionally used to profit by duping victims into paying to release files, this particular ransomware was instead a vehicle to cause mass disruption on a countrys infrastructure. What was witnessed in Ukraine first in 2015, and then again since, is just a taster of whats to come.

Some predict a large-scale attack on a nation states entire infrastructure, penetrating and disrupting the countrys economic core. The stock exchange or a single central bank may be attacked, destroying trust between the countrys lenders, citizens, and governments. The broader economy as a whole could become unstable, eventually showing cracks as consumers stop buying and hoard cash as power networks and transport links go offline.

No one expects to see blackouts in this day and age  but it happened, says Pascal Geenens, a security expert at security firm Radware. If the utilities were to be targeted at the same time as the financial and government networks, all hell would break loose. There would be panic as peoples homes come under fire, panic as people try to grab their money, panic as people try to protect their citizenship. Bottom line is that anything connected to a network is a risk.

While its relatively easy to imagine a hacker remotely infiltrating the network of a power station and manually switching off the safety limits on a reactor, its harder to imagine how exactly a cyberheist of a financial institution or a central bank would go down. Similarly, cutting the power has an obvious impact on citizens. But what would be the effects of a major bank suffering from some form of attack?

When looking at an attack, you actually have to look at why. A lot of times theres a destructive side of it, says Andre McGregor. When youre looking at foreign nation states and why they would attack a banking institution, you have to think about how those states are economically entwined.

McGregors calling me in London from New York City. His colleague, Jason Truppi, is also on the phone. The two are former FBI cyber special agents, experts in criminal and counterintelligence cyber techniques with decades of combined frontline experience responding to serious national security issues, corporate data breaches, hacktivism, and cyber extortion. They now work at Tanium, a U.S. cybersecurity company that helps protect and advise some of the worlds largest financial organizations. Its customers include 12 of the worlds 15 biggest banks, Aon, PwC, eBay, Amazon, and the intelligence agencies of the U.K. and the U.S.

Iran was a good example of that, says McGregor, referring to the seven Iranian hackers charged in early 2016 with carrying out distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks against 46 U.S. banks and financial institutions throughout 2011, 2012, and 2013. But of course theres a financial-gain perspective as well. Like North Korea and Swift.

Between them, McGregor and Truppi have investigated dozens of cyberattacks against U.S. financial institutions, and they say that working out why a bank might have been attacked often leads to discovering who attacked it, and how. A good example: China is not going to hack United States infrastructure and take down the trading platform, because that would affect them economically, says Truppi. What China would try to do is hack banking institutions and gain the upper hand with information, maybe information on mergers and acquisitions or other information on companies.

On the other hand, Truppi says, attacks like those purportedly deployed by North Korea on South Korea are designed to wreak havoc on society. The reason they have been able to take those destructive approaches is because theyre not economically entwined with the U.S. in any way, shape, or form. Its making a statement, he says.

In our fictionalized scenario, a countrys financial infrastructure has been targeted to cause maximum disruption. But how exactly would the attackers  nation state or otherwise  go about achieving this?

There are many different forms of an attack, but youve got to think about how a banking institution has been positioned on the Internet. They have to interface with customers, right? says Truppi. Thats the primary location of where most banks get attacked. And thats because those areas are accessible to most people around the world. Its accessible to a customer of the bank  but also to a hacker sitting somewhere else. For years banks have been targeted through web-based login portals and other Internet applications, exposing them to a range of cyberattacks, such as DDoS, fraudulent transfers, and attacks where sensitive information is raided and stolen. Its a financial institutions Achilles heel.

Once in, damage can spread. Financial institutions that offer interconnected services are at a high risk due to the way their systems have to communicate and interact with each other, says Mark James, a security specialist at Slovakian security firm ESET. Malware writers are very aware of how this works; one successful infection or compromised machine inside a network could cause a cascade effect that could cripple infrastructures like we saw with Petya.

But in the era of tweeting presidents and globalized social media, banks arent just vulnerable from the inside: Experts dont discount the role fake news or other propaganda could have in a disaster scenario involving an attack on financial infrastructure.

Agnia Grigas, an energy sector and political risk analyst who focuses on the U.S. and Eurasia, points to the widespread 2007 cyberattacks in Estonia as evidence of this. The attacks, which some blamed on Russia, were merely proving grounds for organized DDoS campaigns on a countrys media and government. Estonias banking systems, parliament, and media were all targeted in a widespread propaganda and misinformation campaign dubbed a cyber riot that shook the country for days.

[Attacks] could become quite potent when used in combination with information warfare and propaganda, Grigas says. Essentially, if you hack into a system, like a media system, and you put on some fake news or fake reports  that is less sophisticated than taking down an entire system, but it can be just as potent by causing commotion and confusion.

Fake news has on numerous occasions caused financial disruption in the real world. In April 2013, hackers accessed the Twitter account of The Associated Press and tweeted out a message that the White House had been bombed and Barack Obama had been injured. Almost $140 billion was temporarily knocked off the stock market.

Once an attacker has a foot in the door, the possibilities are nearly limitless. The first port of call is to look for any weaknesses in IT administrator privileges at a particular bank or company, followed, perhaps, by spear-phishing attacks on other administrators to rack up credentials to access more systems. The attacker can then use these new privileges within the network to deploy malicious software where data can be scooped up, manipulated, or even destroyed.

Any countrys economy is based on trust, says Alan Levine, a security adviser at Wombat Security Technologies, a U.S.-based cybersecurity training company. Shake this confidence and any economy would shudder, weaken, and potentially begin to fail. There would be runs on banks and exchanges, consumers would stop buying and hoard cash, treasuries and other bonds would be weakened, and this downward cycle would feed upon itself, eating away at the fabric of the economy.

The deployment of malware inside a banks systems could devastate an economy if the bank isnt prepared. Moreover, a multistage bank attack  like that used in the Bangladesh Swift hack  could funnel billions away from customers while a smokescreen of disaster has authorities preoccupied. A Russian criminal hacking group known as Cobalt has already been successful in targeting hundreds of banks with malware and phishing attacks across Europe, stealing millions. By attacking a financial exchange, a criminal group like Cobalt can pump or dump stocks, incentivizing purchase or sale of shares in certain companies in a way that causes rapid fluctuations in share price, says Alex Mathews, lead security evangelist at cybersecurity firm Positive Technologies.

Former FBI agents McGregor and Truppi confirm that the consequences of a cyberattack on a countrys economy would be devastating. I look at something like Bernie Madoff, where we had one individual that had such a significant negative impact on the market through his Ponzi scheme that sent a ripple through all industries, says McGregor. Thats just one person.

Truppi refers to the disorder caused after South Korean banks were attacked in 2013. Residents were unable to withdraw cash from ATMs. Thats a pretty scary situation, especially for electronic transactions, he says. The majority of transactions are still via cash, at least in the U.S. economy. But were slowly moving toward electronic-based transactions, and if you cant make a transaction for one day, its not that big of a deal. But two days, four days, two weeks  which is what happened in South Korea  thats scary. Truppi and McGregor also believe cyberattackers could easily take advantage of the very integrity of data. Looking at markets, how do we know that the data were looking at is actually the data that is real and true? asks McGregor. We trust it, but if I were going to disrupt a market, as a bad guy, why not change the numbers?

But in protecting banks against an attack, the duo is confident. Andre and I have spent an enormous amount of time with banking institutions and how they protect not only trading platforms for stock exchanges but also internal banking applications, says Truppi. Generally speaking, I think that banking institutions are pretty well positioned to protect that to a high security level, and what that means is that its not easy for an attacker to infiltrate a bank and take down a stock exchange. Unlike other industries like water and gas, the financial industry has the cash to spend on the best cybersecurity. Banks have always been ahead of the curve with technology because, quite frankly, they have the money to do it, says McGregor.

This sentiment echoes Grigass opinions. When asked what the financial industry could learn from an industry thats already been compromised with a powerful attack, like the energy industry, she replies, I think its the energy sector that can actually learn more from the financial sector.

Its mid-August and the cooling breeze is already anticipating autumn in Londons Greenwich Park. Standing on Observatory Hill looking north over the River Thames, the impressive skyline of Londons iconic Canary Wharf looms in front of us. The risk of cyberattack comes from centralization of infrastructure and authority, the man next to me says. I think that the issue with centralization is the lack of diversity it creates, both security and otherwise. We all learn that diversity is good from an evolutionary perspective  it supports resilience. The problem is that diversity is messy, and that is really abhorrent to a lot of people, and confusing to everyone.

Daniel Ames is core team member at European cryptocurrency project Crown. He is a believer in a decentralized future built upon the distributed-ledger technology of blockchain, the same technology that gave Bitcoin its star status. The risk we have in our society right now  the biggest risk, cybersecurity and otherwise  is leaving people behind to be dependent on centralized systems.

Looking over the river toward one of Londons major business districts with its aging, steel towers, its easy to forget just how vulnerable todays world is to cyberthreats. Like honeypots, centralized infrastructures, including central banks, make juicy targets for attackers. But blockchain is decentralized and people like Ames argue that by virtue its more secure.

Blockchain technology allows for secure transactions of money and other assets thanks to a ledger system thats distributed over the Internet. Not only useful for actual money, blockchain can also store any digital assets across numerous computers spanning networks, publicly recording all transactions. Its a stark change from putting your trust in a centralized bank or government service, but thats where blockchain supporters see its success. Combined with the cryptographic qualities that make blockchain secure, the technologys invulnerability to tampering or alteration prevents cases of fraud and data manipulation. The decentralized technology has another boon too: With no single attack surface, its almost impossible to shut down a target with a DDoS attack.

This is why billions have already been pumped into the technology by most of the worlds leading banks and financial institutions. Looking further into the future, blockchain and cryptocurrency are both part of a grander ideal for Ames, who sees the entire banking industry turned on its head by the technology.

Truppi is inclined to agree, saying that the power of blockchain shines when used with a system like Swift, ensuring that transactions arent manipulated or fraudulent. What I imagine is some sort of quasi-centralized cryptocurrency for the large major banks. Thats where I see that application of [blockchain], says Truppi. I imagine like eight or ten central banks supporting the infrastructure for that, but then the transactions themselves are somewhat decentralized, so you have this model where there is still trust in the infrastructure.

Unlike conventional warfare, cyberwarfare has yet to attain its own rules of play.

There are no borders, no guidelines  just ever-intensifying hacks that push the boundaries of what small groups, organizations, or even nation states can unleash without putting physical boots on the ground. Our digital addiction is only making a serious financial attack scenario more likely. As we speed into a world where everything is digital, we embrace technology to manage the tasks we used to do manually. We want everything at our fingertips, easy, simple, and interconnected, ESETs Mark James says. For a large-scale attack to succeed, the core infrastructure will need to be taken down; as we move toward an interconnected city, this is only going to get easier.

Despite emerging technologies, defending against cyberattacks is an incessant game of cat and mouse, with attackers and defenders finding new ways to outsmart each other with updated software and innovative attack vectors. Even if banks are relatively safe compared to other infrastructure hubs, institutions around them will be targeted, say Truppi and McGregor. Secondary industries and those third parties that are supported by the banks will come under fire, they say.

By the nature of its newness, its nearly impossible to accurately predict what a cyberattack on a countrys financial institutions would look like. Yet we can be certain about one thing: Along with electricity, transport, medical facilities, telecommunications, and water, a nations financial infrastructure is crucial to the smooth running of todays society. Emerging cyber superpowers, be they malicious groups of hackers or governments exploring new types of warfare, are now a constant, prevalent, and very real threat.

Were going to see more from North Korea, based off of the rhetoric, warns McGregor. Theyre not connected to the economy of the Western world. They kind of want to push the envelope. Theyre posturing, and theyve proven to be able to disrupt markets. And because the Western world hasnt created a red line for cyberattacks, what is that cyberattack that results in a kinetic attack? asks McGregor.

What cyberattack results in a missile down range?
Four people have pleaded guilty to a $40 million Ponzi scheme in which they duped people into investing in their insurance businesses.



Michael Holcomb, Gary Holcomb, Jennifer L. Chalmers and Kristen S. Van Breeman all pleaded guilty in federal court to operating a Ponzi scheme in Oregon. The Holcombs also pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and to one count of money laundering. Chalmers and Van Breeman each pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering.



Prosecutors say that between 2008 and 2012, the four solicited people to invest in their insurance businesses, Berjac of Oregon and Berjac of Portland. They promised investors that their money would earn a high rate of return, according to local CBS affiliate KOIN 6.



Rather than invest the money as promised  (they) diverted the money for personal use, speculative real estate projects, and to make interest and other payments to earlier investors, prosecutors said.



More than 400 investors lost a total of more than $40 million, according to KOIN 6.


UCOM HAS INTRODUCED FUTURE NETWORK WI-FI 6E ROUTERS

Statement by the Spokesperson on the conflict resolution and reconciliation efforts

Foreign Minister of Armenia to participate in the Fifth Paris Peace Forum

Armenia: EU and Armenia Hold annual Dialogue on Human Rights

Google Ad

Todays Shushi, Occupied and Cleared of Armenians, is a Real Example of Turkish-Azerbaijani Policy of Ethnic Cleansing of Artsakh

Ookla, the the global leader in internet testing and analysis has awarded Ucom

Sweden will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union

Ameriabank: At the Vanguard of Armenia's Banking Sector

STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

SUBSCRIBERS OF UCOMS ALL TIME BEST OFFER TO ENJOY ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders

PACE co-rapporteurs on Armenia concerned by reports of alleged war crimes or inhuman treatment perpetrated by Azerbaijans armed forces

There is still 35% gender pay gap: Sona Ghazaryan

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair

Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan

Google Ad

I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General

I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox

UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS

There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur

EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".

UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT

The statement of the meeting between Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Aliyev, President Macron and President Michel of October 6, 2022

Largest Corporate Bond Program at the Securities Market of Armenia Completed Successfully

The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces

LEVEL UP ONLY FOR STUDENTS: UCOM OFFERS X2 AND X3 MORE INTERNET

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN

This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan
An Ohio husband and wife have been sentenced for using their home-health company to defraud Medicaid.Riyad Altallaa, 52, was sentenced to four years in prison for using his company to scam Medicaid and build a $932,000 luxury home. His wife, 50-year-old Muna Alnoubani, received three years of probation for her role in the scheme.The couple pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud Medicaid in December, according to the. Altallaa also pleaded guilty to money laundering for using the proceeds of the scam to finance their house.Investigators said that between 2011 and 2015, the couples company, Columbus Home Health Services, routinely charged Medicaid for services it hadnt provided, and falsified the conditions of patients so it could bill for services the patients didnt need to receive.Altallaa and Alnoubani also ordered their employees to submit fake bills and time sheets, according to the. They also faked the work histories of their employees to make it appear that they were qualified to provide home health services.It was egregious, Assistant US Attorney Steven M. Brown told the Dispatch. They made a significant amount of money off the taxpayer and Medicaid and other health insurance companies. It allowed them to have this lavish lifestyle.
The Maine supreme court on Wednesday began considering whether a paper millworker left suicidal by narcotic painkillers should receive workers compensation for medical marijuana.

Its the first time the court has considered the question of insurance reimbursement for medical marijuana.

Madawaska, Maine, resident Gaetan Bourgoin won a ruling from the states Workers Compensation Board two years ago saying the paper mills insurer must reimburse him for medical marijuana. He contends marijuana is cheaper and safer than narcotics.

But Twin Rivers Paper Co. and its insurer appealed the ruling, arguing that paying for pot use, even for medical purposes, could expose the companies to prosecution since marijuana still is illegal at the federal level.

With medical marijuana legal in Washington, D.C. and 29 states, insurers across the country have been confronted with the same dilemma. Uneven state laws on reimbursement further complicate the issue.

Five states  Connecticut, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey and New Mexico  have found medical marijuana treatment is reimbursable under their workers compensation laws, according to the National Council for Compensation Insurance. Florida and North Dakota, meanwhile, passed laws this year excluding medical marijuana treatment from workers compensation reimbursement.

Members of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court posed hypotheticals to the attorneys arguing the case. One asked Bourgoins attorney what hed do if a client needed cocaine for pain treatment, and another asked Twin Rivers attorney whether she believes the federal government will start prosecuting insurers for medical marijuana reimbursement.

Justice Donald Alexander repeatedly questioned whether marijuana use should remain illegal under federal law and contrasted the drug with opioid-based painkillers, which he said drug companies have lobbied Congress to protect.

Opioids are killing people every day in Maine, he said.

Bourgoins case dates to 1989, when he hurt his back as a 29-year-old at the paper mill now known as Twin Rivers.

His attorney, Norman Trask, said Bourgoin pays for medical marijuana out-of-pocket and receives reimbursement from Twin Rivers insurer. Bourgoin previously took opioid-based painkillers, which caused other problems.

At one point, he was on such high dosages that they were concerned about his oxygen levels at night, Trask said. He became suicidal.

Twin Rivers attorney Anne-Marie Storey said paying for medical marijuana puts the company in violation of federal law. The company contends that Maines medical marijuana law does not explicitly require an insurer to cover the cost of medical marijuana.

This is not a case about making judgment over whether someone should use or not use marijuana as a matter of personal choice, she said. Theres a scarcity of research on medical marijuana, and nobody knows how safe it is, she said.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Workers' Compensation Cannabis Maine
Hundreds of runners came out Saturday for a Marine Corps charity race on the New Jersey shore, a race run without incident one year after a pipe bomb detonated at the event site and forced its cancellation.

Security was beefed up for this years Semper Five race, with trash cans removed along the race route in Seaside Heights and manhole covers sealed.

The race also saw a sharp increase in registrants, with nearly 2,000 runners taking part.

The registration surge had spurred organizers to move the race from Seaside Park to neighboring Seaside Heights, due to the larger boardwalk there that could accommodate the extra runners. Race officials said the increase in runners was a response to the bombing and people wanting to show support for the military.

The bomb that rocked last years event was planted by Ahmad Khan Rahimi as the start of a two-day reign of terror in the region, authorities have said.

Several hours after that blast, another bomb exploded in a New York City neighborhood, wounding 29 people. The next night, a homeless man and his friend alerted authorities after they found a backpack full of explosives in a trash can near a train station in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Five devices were in the bag, including one that exploded while a bomb squad robot attempted to disarm it.

Rahimi, an Afghanistan-born man living in Elizabeth, was arrested the next morning after he was seriously injured in a shootout with police in Linden. He has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the bombings and is being held without bail while awaiting his trial, scheduled to start Oct. 2.

No one was injured in the Seaside Park explosion, mostly because the start of the race had been delayed because of a large number of late entrants, or by the devices found in Elizabeth. But the situation frightened many in a region where the Sept. 11 attacks still reverberate strongly.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics New Jersey
RLI Corp. in Peoria, Ill., has added Bryan Fowler to serve as its new vice president, chief information officer (CIO). Fowler will be responsible for leading RLIs IT strategy and initiatives to support company business goals.

He comes to RLI with nearly 20 years of insurance industry experience and 31 years of IT experience. Prior to joining RLI, he was the founder and managing director of InsurTech Advisors in Portland, Ore., an IT consulting firm serving the insurance technology marketplace. He also previously served as vice president and CIO of Oregon Mutual Insurance and in various IT leadership roles at Progressive Insurance.

RLI Corp. is a specialty insurer serving diverse, niche property, casualty and surety markets.

Source: RLI
Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty Inc. has acquired DernCo Insurance, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis.

Serving both Wisconsin and Colorado for more than 25 years, Rich Dern and his team have been offering a full spectrum of insurance products from numerous companies, enabling them to deliver a magnitude of options within budget.

In Wisconsin, the DernCo team will be joining Seeman Holtz Property & Casualtys Green Bay offices.

Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty is headquartered in Boca Raton, Fla.

Source: Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty Inc.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Property Casualty Property Wisconsin Casualty
An Iowa judge has ruled that the details of shadow insurance subsidiaries created by several life insurers can remain confidential.

Indiana University professor emeritus Joseph Belth sought the documents last year under Iowas open records law, saying he believes they would expose risky financial practices that could bankrupt some insurers.

On Sept. 14, Judge Lawrence McLellan sided with the industry and state regulators, saying the documents are part of the companies plans of operations and exempt from disclosure.

Companies such as TransAmerica have taken advantage of an Iowa law to transfer billions of dollars in liabilities to subsidiaries. Insurers say the arrangements free them from accounting rules mandating that they hold excess cash reserves.

Belth is seeking copies of the financial guarantees the companies made to their subsidiaries, saying policyholders and shareholders should know whether theyre sound.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Legislation Iowa
Business owners who are trying to get back on track after hurricanes Harvey and Irma now face a different sort of challenge: trying to recoup lost income from their insurers.

Exclusions in the fine print of policies, along with waiting periods and disagreements over how to measure a companys lost income, make business interruption claims among the trickiest in an industry renowned for complexity.

I think the whole thing is a rip-off, said Thomas Arnold, an optometrist in Sugar Land, Texas. He said his business, Todays Vision, was shuttered for almost five days after Hurricane Harvey struck because nearby flooding kept employees and patients from getting there.

Arnold says he pays $1,083 per month for coverage. But after he filed a claim, he said his insurer rejected it because his business was not physically damaged.

Business interruption policies typically require direct physical damage as a condition of coverage, said Loretta Worters, a spokeswoman for the Insurance Information Institute, ainsurance industry-funded communications group.

It was Arnolds second disappointing experience with business interruption coverage. He said another insurer denied his claim in 2008 after a nine-day power outage from Hurricane Ike.

Devastating storms are hitting the United States with increasing frequency. Risk modeling firm AIR Worldwide predicts losses to all properties from the flooding in Texas alone will be $65 billion to $75 billion, regardless of whether they are insured.

Commercial Losses

The income lost by shuttered firms makes up a significant chunk of overall losses from a natural disaster and can hobble the pace of a communitys economic and social recovery.

Hurricane Katrina in 2005, for example, caused about $25 billion in insured commercial losses, of which $6 billion to $9 billion has been attributed to business interruption, according to information posted on AIRs website.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) does not offer a business interruption component. The program is largely used by homeowners, but it also covers commercial structures for up to $500,000 in damage, with another $500,000 for the contents.

That is why companies able to afford the additional protection of business interruption insurance, usually large and medium-sized firms, often purchase it despite the potential for unsuccessful and drawn-out claims.

Big Star Honda, a car dealership in Houston, lost 600 vehicles  95 percent of its inventory  and was shut for five days after Harvey.

Its managers are now girding themselves for a potentially long slog with the firms insurance company as the dealership prepares to make a claim on its business interruption policy.

Were collecting every single invoice that pertains to the hurricane, said Allen Paul, Houston regional vice president of Ken Garff Automotive Group, which owns the dealership.

Im really curious to see how that goes, he said.

The dealership also has a flood policy through the NFIP, but relatively few firms do. As of June 30, 2017, the NFIP had just 264,681 non-residential policies, said a spokeswoman for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the agency that runs the government-backed flood insurance program.

That figure covers businesses but could also include churches, private schools and community centers, and is a sliver of the estimated 2.4 million small businesses located in flood-prone Florida alone.

Number Crunching

Insurers such as Travelers Companies Inc. and Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. are bracing for a wave of claims from businesses in Texas and Florida.

They face a daunting task. The size and scope of the two storms, which pounded the states within two weeks of each other, affected everything from energy refineries to hoteliers.

Insurers are craving information now, said Allen Melton, Americas Leader of InsuranceClaims Services for Ernst & Young LLP. They want to know how big a claim we are looking at and what the issues are.

The answers to those questions are often difficult for businesses and insurance companies to pinpoint. Both sides often hire their own forensic accountants to comb through profit-and-loss accounts from the current and prior years.

It can take months, and sometimes years, for a policyholder to receive monies owed. Insurance brokerage Aon PLC is still working on claims from Hurricane Matthew, which struck South Carolina last October, said Jill Dalton, who leads claims for Aon.

Many business owners in the storm-ravaged Florida Keys are not even close to estimating their losses because they cannot get to their properties yet.

When you have property damage, you can pretty much figure out how much it costs to buy nails and a hammer and wood, said Gary Marchitello, North American Head of Property Broking for Willis Towers Watson PLC. But reasonable minds can differ about how the business would have done if the loss hadnt occurred.

Payouts can hinge on factors such as whether a storm hits during a slow season or if a business can make up for lost time in another quarter.

Back in Texas, Arnold, the optometrist, is rethinking his coverage. Im going to sit down with my insurer and drastically cut my insurance, he said.

If my office burns down or a tornado hits it, I want coverage for that, Arnold said. But if people come in my office and steal my glasses, Ill pay for that.

(Reporting by Suzanne Barlyn; Editing by Carmel Crimmins and Marla Dickerson)

Topics Carriers Catastrophe Florida Texas Profit Loss Flood Hurricane
The United States could remain in the Paris climate accord under the right conditions, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday.

President Donald Trump was willing to work with partners in the Paris agreement if the United States could construct a set of terms that are fair and balanced for Americans, Tillerson said on the CBS Face The Nation program.

The president said he is open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others on what we all agree is still a challenging issue, Tillerson said.

Trump administration officials said the United States would not pull out of the agreement and had offered to re-engage in the deal, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday. U.S. officials attended a meeting on Saturday of ministers from more than 30 of the nations that signed the climate-change agreement.

Trump announced in June that he would withdraw the United States from the 2015 global climate pact, arguing it would undermine the U.S. economy and national sovereignty. The decision drew anger and condemnation from world leaders.

Tillerson said Gary Cohn, Trumps top economic adviser, was overseeing the issue.

So I think the plan is for director Cohn to consider other ways in which we can work with partners in the Paris Climate Accord. We want to be productive. We want to be helpful, said.

Similar sentiments were expressed on Sunday by national security adviser H.R. McMaster, who said on ABCs This Week program that Trump was open to any discussions that will help us improve the environment.

He left the door open to re-entering at some later time if there can be a better deal for the United States, said McMaster. If theres an agreement that benefits the American people, certainly.

The accord, reached by nearly 200 countries in 2015, was meant to limit global warming to 2 degrees or less by 2100, mainly through pledges to cut carbon dioxide and other emissions from the burning of fossil fuels.

(Reporting by Lucia Mutikani; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)

Topics USA Politics
As Congress continues to struggle with health insurance reform, members should be ruminating on the scenes of recovery beaming in from East Texas and Florida, where the majority of households  many now severely damaged or destroyed  had not purchased flood insurance.

As after Hurricanes Katrina in 2005 and Sandy in 2012, many of those now waiting to see if federal aid and charity will help rebuild homes, of course, wish they had.

Flood insurance in storm-prone areas and health insurance have a lot in common, especially when it comes to the mental calculus that goes into the purchase. You are paying money to insure against a personal calamity you hope wont happen, even though you know that its a real possibility.

East Texas and Florida will experience hurricanes and floods. Just as surely, you are likely at some point to face an expensive medical condition. Weather disasters will probably grow more common thanks to climate change. And more people will face bank-account-draining illnesses thanks to longer lifespans, better treatments and high medical prices.

Yet theres been a 9 percent drop in flood insurance coverage in the Houston area over the last five years and a drop of 15 percent in Florida, Associated Press investigations recently found. In some of the most severely affected counties, the drop was over 20 percent.

Why would Floridians (who regularly face hurricanes) or Texans (whove experienced five major floods since 2010) make this unwise choice? The current head of the federal flood insurance program, Roy Wright, thinks he knows the answer: a decision by Congress in 2012 to raise premiums for the troubled National Flood Insurance program that covers what private insurers wont. Flood insurance now doesnt fit into stretched family budgets.

Though federal flood insurance is required to get a federally backed mortgage in high-risk zones, maps of those zones have been redrawn in some areas to ease the financial burden of homeowners. Also, it turns out that some people who buy insurance to get a loan later let it lapse, since there is limited enforcement. In Floridas hazard zones, only 41 percent of households have flood insurance.

The fact that the majority of Floridians and Houstonians didnt buy flood insurance underlines why, as a matter of practicality, not politics, every person needs to have health insurance. And whether government-provided or purchased in the market, it has to be comprehensive and affordable. Thats not the case now.

Many Republicans want to do away with the Obamacare requirement that everyone purchase some kind of health insurance, the politically unpopular individual mandate. They want to allow people to buy bare-bones plans that, for example, dont cover items like cancer or medicines. They say Americans who want cheap, minimal coverage or no health insurance at all should be allowed to choose that option  to play the odds and use their money elsewhere.

You know what, Americans have choices  and theyve got to make a choice, Representative Jason Chaffetz, a Utah Republican, told CNN. And so maybe, rather than getting that new iPhone that they just love and they want to spend hundreds of dollars on, maybe they should invest in their own health care.

Well, for most middle income families, thats not the kind of choice people are making. In explaining why she decided to forgo flood insurance in Houston, Kris Ford-Amofa told a New York Times reporter that she had always tried to stick to a budget, down to choosing the pancake syrup that gives her the best value.

Likewise, when Americans choose not to have health insurance, its because theyre (unwisely) playing the odds and triaging the finite dollars in the family budget. If youre a family struggling to pay for daily necessities like rent, food and college, you may decide to do without.

Last week, the U.S. census bureau reported that median household income in 2016 rose to $59,039, a 3.2 per cent increase since 2015. But for many families, health insurance premiums and medical expenses have risen more.

Insurance plans for a family of four in some parts of Florida went from $550 to $1,600 a month in the last several years and some are poised to go 10 to 20 percent higher in 2018, Margot Kast, an insurance agent, told me. She calculated similar price rises in some other states. Those prices have been overwhelming for many who earn too much to qualify for government subsidies. Most people want insurance; they just cant afford it, she said.

In hurricanes, as in health, when the unwelcome cataclysm happens the costs are even more unaffordable. Meanwhile, the pain and suffering are so enormous that government cannot turn its back.

Now we will all pay to rebuild those homes in Texas and Florida  a cost that is likely to run into the tens or hundreds of billions.

As a society, emotionally we have to pitch in to rebuild wrecked homes. Likewise, when a pregnant woman turns up at a hospital in labor, or a 60-year-old man develops crushing chest pain, we cant turn away.

Flood insurance  whether federally provided or privately offered  needs to be required if you live in a flood plain. Likewise  Congress, pay attention, here  comprehensive health insurance needs to be mandated or provided for every American.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Elisabeth Rosenthal, a journalist and physician, is editor in chief of Kaiser Health News and a former correspondent for the New York Times. She is author of An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take it Back.

Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Florida Texas Flood Hurricane
The first 911 call from the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills didnt sound ominous: A nursing home patient had an abnormal heartbeat.

An hour later, came a second call: a patient had trouble breathing. Then came the third call. A patient had gone into cardiac arrest  and died.

Over the next few hours of Wednesday morning, the dire situation at the Rehabilitation Center for fragile, elderly people would come into clearer view. Three days after Hurricane Irma hit Florida, the center still didnt have air conditioning, and it ultimately became the grimmest tragedy in a state already full of them. Eight people died and 145 patients had to be moved out of the stifling-hot facility, many of them on stretchers or in wheelchairs.

Authorities launched a criminal investigation to figure out what went wrong and who, if anyone, was to blame. Within hours of the tragedy, Gov. Rick Scott and U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson made no effort to hide their anger and frustration that something like this could happen.

Judy Frum, the chief nursing officer at the air conditioned hospital just across the street, was working in the Irma command center when the emergency room notified her that three patients had been brought in from the nursing home.

It set off a red flag that something might be going on, said Frum, who grabbed a colleague and hurried across the street.

When they arrived, paramedics were treating a critically ill patient near the entrance. She saw harried staff members trying to get patients into a room where fans were blowing.

The center had some electricity, but not enough to power the air conditioning.

Frum called her facility, Memorial Regional Hospital, to issue a mass casualty alert. As many as 100 hospital employees rushed over to help.

The scene on site when I got there was chaotic, said Randy Katz, Memorials emergency services director.

Word of the crisis soon reached relatives. Vendetta Craig searched frantically for her 87-year-old mother for 25 minutes. She finally found her mother, with doctors from Memorial already applying ice and giving her intravenous fluids.

She opened her eyes _ she looked in my eyes_ oh my God, that was the best thing that ever came into my soul, Craig said.

The Rehabilitation Center said the hurricane knocked out a transformer that powered the air conditioning. The center said in a detailed timeline of events released Friday that it repeatedly was told by Florida Power and Light that it would fix the transformer, but the utility did not show up until Wednesday morning, hours after the first patients began having emergencies.

The utility refused to answer any specific questions about the nursing home case.

State and local officials said the nursing home had contacted them, but did not request any help for medical needs or emergencies.

Paulburn Bogle, a member of the housekeeping staff, said employees fought the lack of air conditioning with fans, cold towels, ice and cold drinks for patients.

Rosemary Cooper, a licensed practical nurse at the rehabilitation center, defended the staffs work but declined to discuss specifics.

The people who were working there worked hard to make a good outcome for our patients, she said in a brief interview before hanging up on a reporter. We cared for them like family.

Certified nursing assistant Natasha Johnson, who left the facility weeks ago for another job, said she didnt understand why the center didnt transfer patients to the hospital sooner. Im as shocked as you. I just dont understand it, she said.

Craig, whose mother was sickened at the nursing home, said the centers administrators should be prosecuted to the full extent that the law allows and then some.

Owner Jack Michels attorney didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

State records showed problems with fire and safety standards, as well as more serious issues with generator maintenance and testing, according to February 2016 reports by Florida Agency for Health Care Administration inspectors.

Inspectors also said they didnt see a clean, well-supplied facility, noting peeling paint, chipped and scratched doors and floors and furniture in disrepair. There were overflowing trash bins, rusty air conditioning vents, soiled bathtubs and cracked or missing bathroom floor tiles.

The facilitys directors told inspectors that staff needed a refresher course on reporting maintenance and housekeeping issues.

Evangelina Moulder hired an attorney after her 93-year-old mother became severely dehydrated on Wednesday. Moulders mother was released from the hospital to a new nursing home.

Moulders attorney, Bill Dean, said Moulder visited her mother on Monday and worried about the heat.

She said, `Its very hot in here, and the staff said, `Yes, it is, Dean said. She opened her moms windows, and she said, `Mom, its going to be OK.

___

Kay reported from Miami. Associated Press writer Michael Melia in Hartford, Connecticut, and AP researcher Rhonda Shafner contributed to this report.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Florida
Although insured losses as a result of Hurricane Irma will not be as severe as originally forecast, the storm still represents a sizeable catastrophe event that will test the infrastructure and potentially strain the financial wherewithal of some local and regional carriers in Florida, particularly those that are geographically concentrated, according to a new briefing from A.M. Best.

The Bests Briefing, titled, Hurricane Irma Tests Newer Participants in Florida Market, notes that over the past decade, the number of more concentrated local/regional writers in Floridas insurance market has increased as national writers pulled back on the state.

The state-formed Citizens Property Casualty Insurance Corporation took on much of that risk exposure, and as a result, experienced significant financial pressure. This led to a fairly successful depopulation program, whereby private insurers were given incentives to assume policies from Citizens. This, along with other factors that included benign weather in Florida and favorable reinsurance pricing, prompted many new insurance companies to form.

According to the report, a number of new insurance companies were formed since 2007, writing nearly a fifth of the property market lines: homeowners, farmowners, fire and allied, and commercial multiperil (non-liability). Hurricane Irma represents the first severe event to test the strength of these business models, particularly with regard to risk selection, loss mitigation and potentially their reinsurance programs.

The report also states that with Hurricane Irma occurring in such close proximity to Hurricane Harvey, the demand for independent catastrophe claim adjusters has increased. A.M. Best-rated entities had already started strengthening their claims processes in response to the states Assignment of Benefit issues. Newer companies may face additional pressure from a lack of experience as well as limitations due to scale.

The report warns that Hurricane Irma has the potential to amplify the AOB issue, which had already led to performance constraints in the Florida market from an increase in the frequency and severity of litigated water claims. A.M. Best said insurer performance had deteriorated in recent years in large part due to the AOB issue.

A.M. Best expects that Hurricane Irma and AOB losses will have a much greater impact on operating results for the concentrated insurers, and will continue to monitor the effects of risk-adjusted capitalization, the report states.

A.M. Best does not expect a significant number of rating actions on its rated insurers to result solely from Hurricane Irma, but reinsurance programs that respond differently from what is anticipated could increase ratings pressure.

A.M. Best said that ultimately, although the aftermath of Hurricane Irma may be bleak for some regional and local carriers, particularly overexposed companies with earnings and potential capital concerns, it believes opportunities will emerge for others.

An insurer that can effectively navigate through the storm and potentially others during this hurricane season may attract displaced insureds, the briefing states.

Insurers also may need to rethink their risk selection, risk tolerances and reinsurance purchases, and some may consider diversifying outside of Florida or revamping products. Smaller or struggling companies in the Florida insurance market also could become merger and acquisition targets, the ratings agency said.

A full copy of the special report is available through A.M. Best.

Source: A.M. Best

Topics Carriers Catastrophe Natural Disasters Florida Reinsurance Hurricane AM Best
Google faces a new lawsuit accusing it of gender-based pay discrimination. A lawyer representing three female former Google employees is seeking class action status for the claim.

The suit, filed in San Francisco Superior Court, follows a federal labor investigation that made a preliminary finding of systemic pay discrimination among the 21,000 employees at Googles headquarters in Mountain View, California. The initial stages of the review found women earned less than men in nearly every job classification.

Google disputes those findings and says its analysis shows no gender pay gap.

The suit, led by lawyer James Finberg of Altshuler Berzon LLP, is on behalf of three women, Kelly Ellis, Holly Pease and Kelli Wisuri, who all quit after being put on career tracks that they claimed would pay them less than their male counterparts. The suit aims to represent thousands of Google employees in California and seeks lost wages and a slice of Googles profits.

I have come forward to correct a pervasive problem of gender bias at Google, Ellis said in a statement. She says she quit Google in 2014 after male engineers with similar experience were hired to higher-paying job levels and she was denied a promotion despite excellent performance reviews. It is time to stop ignoring these issues in tech.

Google spokeswoman Gina Scigliano said the company will review the suit in detail, but we disagree with the central allegations.

Job levels and promotions are determined through rigorous hiring and promotion committees, and must pass multiple levels of review, including checks to make sure there is no gender bias in these decisions, she said.

Charges of gender discrimination have swirled at Alphabet Inc.-owned Google since the U.S. Labor Department sued in January to bar Google from doing business with the federal government until it released thousands of documents related to an audit over its pay practices. The sides have been battling in court over how much information Google must turn over.

The lawsuit also follows the firing of male engineer James Damore, who wrote a memo circulated on internal message boards that blamed inherent differences between men and women for the underrepresentation of women in engineering roles.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits California Google
Arizonas efforts to combat opioid abuse are getting a $3.1 million boost from federal taxpayers.

The U.S. Department of Health Services says the funding provided the state Department of Health Services is included in $144.1 million of grants awarded nationwide to prevent and treat opioid addiction.

The grants will be administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Federal officials say uses for the money include training responders to use overdose-reversing drugs and improving access to medication-assisted treatment.

Other uses include expanding treatment and recovery services to pregnant and postpartum women struggling with substance abuse and increasing long-term recovery services.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Arizona
The reports author, from the Danish Ministry of Finance, tells ITR - in his personal capacity - that more robust policies are needed to tackle what is a serious global problem.
Panoramica privacy

Questo sito web utilizza i cookies per fornire all'utente la miglior esperienza di navigazione possibile. L'informazione dei cookie e memorizzata nel browser dell' utente, svolge funzioni di riconoscimento quando l' utente ritorna nel sito e permette di sapere quali sezioni del sito sono ritenute piu interessanti e utili.
Update 3.25pm: A chicken takeaway owner has described how undercover police investigating the Parsons Green bombing swooped on a worker finishing his shift.

Suleman Sarwar, who manages Aladdins on Kingsley Road, Hounslow, west London, said Yahyah Farroukh, 21, was "grabbed" by detectives after clocking off at around 11.30pm on Saturday.

The suspect, reportedly a Syrian refugee, was said to be "very normal" and had worked at the chicken shop "for a good number of months".

Yahyah Farroukh

Mr Sarwar, 43, said: "This is all very overwhelming, not a thing you're equipped for or used to. He was very normal.

"He was working that night and when he finished it was at that point that the police all grabbed him. It was surprising seeing him on the news."

Video obtained by the Sun appeared to show forensic officers gathering evidence as Farroukh was held against the shutters of the neighbouring pharmacy.

The takeaway boss, who owns the shop with his brothers, said he was sure Farroukh was Syrian because of his distinctive dialect.

Suleman Sarwar, owner of Aladdin's takeaway in Hounslow, West London. Photo: Thomas Hornall/PA Wire

He said: "At some point he took some time off because his father died in Egypt.

"He tried to go out to Egypt but they wouldn't allow him being a Syrian refugee."

The suspect then returned to work after a period of mourning.

Police searched Farroukh's locker at the property on Sunday and took away CCTV recordings to examine, Mr Sarwar said.

He added: "I hope that the police get to the bottom of this."

Both Farroukh and an 18-year-old man, understood to be the suspected bomber, are said to have spent time in foster care with Penelope and Ronald Jones, who previously received MBEs for services to children and families.

Farroukh's home in Stanwell, Surrey was searched by police on Sunday after armed police raided the Jones's house in Sunbury-on-Thames on Saturday.

Both men remain in custody for questioning over the attack, which injured 30 people.

General view of Aladdins chicken shop in Hounslow, west London. Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Update 12.50pm: Two men who were fostered by the same British couple are being questioned by counter-terrorism police investigating the Parsons Green bombing, it has been claimed.

A 21-year-old, identified by his employers as Yahyah Farroukh, was arrested after he finished his shift at a fried chicken shop in Hounslow, west London on Saturday night as part of the probe into Friday's attack.

Video obtained by the Sun appeared to show forensic officers gathering evidence as Farroukh was held against the shutters of the neighbouring pharmacy.

According to his Facebook profile, Farroukh is originally from Damascus and is living in London, having studied English at West Thames College.

Both Farroukh and an 18-year-old man, understood to be the suspected bomber, are believed to have spent time in foster care with Penelope and Ronald Jones, aged 71 and 88 respectively, who previously received MBEs for services to children and families.

Suleman Sarwar, 43, who owns Aladdin's Fried Chicken on Kingsley Road, Hounslow, with his brothers, said Farroukh worked at the takeaway.

Mr Sarwar said: "Yes he is familiar. I recognise him as a member of staff.

"He was very normal. I don't know how long he worked here. It was surprising seeing him on the news."

Mr Sarwar added that Farroukh had been working on Saturday and was arrested outside the shop after his shift at around 11.30pm.

He said: "It was at that point that the police all grabbed him."

Asked if police had been staking out the shop, Mr Sarwar said "I suspect so" but said he was not aware of any operations.

The takeaway owner added he was sure Farroukh was Syrian because of his distinctive dialect.

Mr Sarwar added police had taken CCTV recordings from the shop on Sunday and carried out a search of the property.

A spokeswoman for the college said: "West Thames College confirms that Yahyah Farroukh, who, according to media reports is the second suspect detained in connection with the Parsons Green incident, was a former student at the college from December 2013 to June 2015.

"Yahyah Farroukh joined the college aged 17 to learn English and completed ESOL Threshold courses.

"The college has robust, well-established Prevent procedures and will co-operate fully with requests from the police."

The younger suspect was detained on Saturday morning in the departure area of Dover ferry port, which is the busiest ferry hub in Europe and a gateway to the French coast.

Both men remain in custody for questioning over the attack, which injured 30 people.

Farroukh's home in Stanwell, Surrey was searched by police on Sunday, after armed officers raided the Jones' home in Sunbury-on-Thames on Saturday.

A local politician said he understood an 18-year-old Iraqi orphan was living with the couple, having moved to Britain aged 15 after his parents died.

Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council Ian Harvey, whose ward is Sunbury East, said he learnt about the boy's background from neighbours of Mr and Mrs Jones and information available publicly.

He told the Press Association: "One thing I understand is that he was an Iraqi refugee who came here aged 15 - his parents died in Iraq."

Of the other suspect, he added: "I think it is widely known that this person who lives at (the Stanwell) property was a former foster child at the property which was raided yesterday."

Earlier: Counter-terror police visited the main suspect in the Parsons Green bombing just weeks ago, a neighbour has claimed.

The 18-year-old, understood to be suspected of planting the device on a Tube train, is believed to have been living with foster carers Ronald Jones, 88, and wife Penelope, 71.

Their home was subject to an armed raid on Saturday morning and is still behind a huge metal police cordon on the street in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey.

Stephen Griffiths, 28, who lives opposite the "lovely couple", said they were visited "multiple times" by police, and added that he thinks their house may have been under surveillance.

"The police were there multiple times over the span of about a month - a few times a week," he told the Press Association.

"They started off as normally dressed cops, then moved up in the police ranks, wearing black uniforms in an undercover car.

"They used to speak to Penny and Ron on the doorstep, but the last couple of times they went in the house.

"You always think foster kids are going to have a bit of trouble, but you don't think terrorism. It's crazy to think it's over the road from you."

Mr Griffiths said the home was last visited by police between two and three weeks ago, and having witnessed Saturday's raid, he now believes they were counter-terror officers.

"You need to question whether the house was under surveillance," he said.

"I think counter-terror police visited a few weeks ago, and if so, why wasn't something done sooner?"

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said the 18-year-old, who was detained on Saturday morning in the departure area of Dover ferry port, had not been arrested "in the last couple of weeks".

But she could not confirm whether he or the property had been visited by officers recently.
In an interview with the Irish Examiner, the US police chief said it was important that she publicly did so following reports last week claiming she was the Governments choice for the position.

There were also suggestions within the justice system that she might be free to take on the commissioner role based on the belief that her term as Seattle police chief was at a premature end following the sudden resignation last week of Seattle mayor Ed Murray over sex abuse allegations.

Though the tenure of police chiefs in the US tend to depend on the sitting mayor, Ms OToole said she had an independent contract until the end of the year. However, she said she was now examining her departure schedule.

Amid fears in oversight bodies last week that the Government was attempting to get the commission to issue an interim report before the next commissioner was appointed, Ms OToole rejected claims that there was such pressure.

On whether she was interested in the commissioners job, Ms OToole said: No, I think it is important to take myself out of that frame so there wont be any distraction to our work in the commission. I think it is important to say this.

Asked why she was not interested, she said: Because Ive assumed this role as chair of the commission and made commitments to the Government and fellow commissioners, so my focus is on this. I hope to spend more time in Ireland over the next year.

The commission is due to report in September 2018 following a demanding review of policing and oversight structures laid out in its terms of reference.

We have been working quietly behind the scenes and are gaining momentum, said Ms OToole. People have been given work areas: five or six different issues we have identified. We dont want to create hundreds of recommendations. The Garda organisation can absorb only so much. We will focus on issues that are transformational.

Ms OToole declined to comment on the circumstances, or consequences, of Noirin OSullivans retirement last Sunday week, saying: I wish Noirin the best going forward.

Following that retirement, Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan highlighted the possibility of the commission issuing an interim report under its terms of reference.

There were also reports that the minister had requested an interim report from the commission.

When the Irish Examiner asked the Department of Justice this specific question, the department declined to give a direct response. A spokesman said the minister had emphasised in July the importance of the terms allowing for rolling recommendations.

Members of the Commission of the Future of Policing, (back LtoR) Conor Brady, Sir Peter Fahy, Helen Ryan and Dr Eddie Molloy with (front LtoR) Dr Johnny Connolly, Chairperson Kathleen OToole and Prof Donncha OConnell at a press briefing today at the Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin after the Commissions first meeting. Photo: Laura Hutton/Collins Photo Agency

Ms OToole said neither she nor the commission has been put under pressure to issue an interim report.

We have strong lines of communication with the department but there is no political pressure whatsoever, she said.

She said the commission had made no decision on making an interim report, but indicated it would be discussed at their next meeting this Wednesday and Thursday.

It is not clear what the interim report would focus on, given the call-out for public submissions was only recently issued and runs until the end of January 2018 and lengthy public consultations are only beginning, with one at the Ploughing Championship tomorrow.

She said the commission was meeting department and Garda management this week.

If there is a sense of urgency [regarding an interim report], certainly we will consider that, Ms OToole said.

News: 5
Figures released to this newspaper under the Freedom of Information Act show more than a third of all vehicles that answered emergency calls to the National Ambulance Service (NAS) in Cork county were not based within the area where the emergency arose.

The NAS has divided Cork county among 12 stations: Cork City, East Cork, Fermoy, Mallow, Kanturk, Millstreet, Macroom, Bantry, Bantry/Dunmanway, Skibbereen, Clonakilty, and Castletownbere. Each station has its own ambulances or rapid response vehicles posted locally to attend to emergencies when they arise.

The NAS said that, in 2016, it received a total of 19,558 emergency calls from Co Cork, to which 22,879 vehicles attended.

However, 8,448  or 37% of all units that responded to calls  were vehicles based in stations outside the area of the emergency.

In its response, the HSE said: The fact that a resource is based in a particular location does not necessarily mean it travelled from that location to the incident.

Figures released to the Irish Examiner reveal that last year show:

Vehicles stationed in Cashel, Kilkenny, Waterford City, Wexford Town, the Phoenix Park, and Swords, Co Dublin, were sent to emergency calls in Cork city;

59 % of the vehicles that responded to emergency calls in the Millstreet region were based in other stations outside the area;

A vehicle based in Youghal in East Cork was sent to an emergency in the Bantry/Dunmanway region, over 100km away in West Cork;

Vehicles in Dooradoyle, Limerick, and Thurles, Tipperary, both answered calls in the Fermoy area;

One in four vehicles responding to emergency calls in Cork city were based in outside stations  the lowest proportion of outside response for all 12 Cork areas.

Fianna Fail health spokesman and Cork North Central TD Billy Kelleher described the figures as astonishing.

He said that it pointed to an ambulance service that lacks capacity where stations were robbing Peter to pay Paul in order to cover emergencies.

People will be absolutely astonished that an ambulance was dispatched from north Dublin to Cork city, Mr Kelleher said.

However, given that over the weekend Cork City has just three emergency ambulances on duty, its no surprise, he said.

Responding to queries from this newspaper, the HSE said the National Ambulance Service is not a static service and operates on a national and area basis as opposed to a local basis.

NAS resources are deployed in a dynamic manner to areas to provide cover or to respond to incidents as they arise, a spokesperson said. It is important to note the National Emergency Operations Centre can identify the location of all NAS resources across the country and they can be allocated to incidents irrespective of their geographical base.

In Cork there are 24 Community First Responder Groups linked to the NAS National Emergency Operations Centre.

Their aim is to reach a potential life threatening emergency in the first vital minutes before the ambulance arrives, the HSE said.

Mr Kelleher said figures outlining the number of vehicles posted in each station show why there is a dependence on other districts.

He said the high dependency in areas such as Bantry/Dunmanway, Kanturk, Macroom, and Millstreet comes as no real surprise as there is never more than one ambulance on call from these stations.
The Irish Examiner/ICMSA poll also shows that despite these misgivings, 63% of farmers are in favour of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar visiting the White House for the annual St Patricks Day ceremonies.

Earlier this month, the Taoiseach told The New York Times it would be rude not to invite Mr Trump to Ireland, given he will be travelling to Washington next March.

Prior to being elected Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach, Mr Varadkar had said he wouldnt be keen on a state visit from Mr Trump.

That is still the prevailing view among farm families. The poll, conducted at agricultural shows across the country in August, shows that 53% of respondents disagreed that Mr Trump should be welcomed here, with 28% strongly disagreeing with the idea of a state visit.

Just 30% agreed with the idea of a state visit.

Digging deeper in the data, 40% of women were strongly opposed to a visit to Ireland by Mr Trump  a higher level of opposition than found among men, where 25% were strongly opposed and 51% were against the idea.

As for age groups, the strongest level of opposition to a US presidential visit to Ireland was among those aged 35 to 44, with 58% of respondents disagreeing with that proposition. The age group with the highest percentage of respondents strongly in favour of a state visit was that aged under 35, at 13%.

The poll was conducted at some of the largest agricultural shows in the country and respondents at Limerick Show, located close to Shannon Airport, had the lowest level of support for a presidential visit, at just 18%.

Just 5% of those polled disagreed with the statement that Trumps presidency will damage Americas reputation abroad, with 75% of respondents agreeing with the view that the US president will damage his countrys international reputation. Some 44% of those polled strongly agreed with that sentiment.

This chimes with an overall view that the Trump presidency will harm Americas reputation abroad. There is little divergence between respondents in terms of their farming background or farm size on this question, while in terms of age groups this view is strongest among those in the 45-54 group, at 81%.

As for the annual White House pageantry in March, 63% of farmers said the Taoiseach should visit Mr Trump on St Patricks Day, with 19% disagreeing.

Older farmers, particularly those aged 55 and over, are most in favour, at 68%, whereas the level of support is lowest at 53% among those aged 35 to 44. Support is also strongest among tillage and livestock farmers, and less pronounced among dairy and other farmers.

ICMSA president John Comer said the poll showed that farmers valued stability, continuity, and a conciliatory approach to leadership.

We do think that farmers really value a constructive attitude where you act as a team or a community  this might have something to do with the old meitheal concept where farm families came together and worked through everyones harvests as a group and in an agreed order, he said.

Perhaps farmers see President Trumps perceived attitudes to minorities and the way he seems to divide societies and a politics that seems to pit one group against another.

As for the traditional White House visit Mr Comer said farmers differentiate between the individual and the state and they want our traditionally close ties of family and friendship with the United States to be absolutely maintained.

Im glad to see that this practical distinction is borne out. I do not subscribe to the idea of tokenistic or symbolic snubs of the kind represented by not visiting the White House on St Patricks Day or not extending an invitation to the president to visit us in turn.

Many families in Ireland, my own included, have relations in the United States and we should be meticulous in making sure that whatever disagreements we have with the approach of a particular incumbent that that can never be interpreted as a disagreement with the United States itself or its people, he said.

Irish Examiner ICMSA farming poll

The Irish Examiner ICMSA farming poll was designed to provide a robust and accurate snapshot of the attitudes, beliefs and opinions of the farming community about a range of issues, both farming and social. The survey involved 569 interviews with farm dwelling adults in the Republic of Ireland.

Fieldwork was completed by Behaviour & Attitudes over a two-week period between August 13 and 27, with interviewing undertaken onsite by Behaviour & Attitudes interviewers across eight agricultural shows. The sample size is large and the data has a statistical margin of error of +/-4%.

The sampling approach involves a random probability method, with interviews being undertaken with attendees provided they worked and/or lived on a farm. 429 interviews were with farmers themselves, 31 with non family, farm employees, and the balance with spouses (66), most of whom -5 out of 6- personally work on the family farm as well.

All data is copyrighted by the Irish Examiner and Behaviour & Attitudes and should be attributed to this source where quoted.
POA spokesman Jim Mitchell said the incident in the Blarney area on Saturday  the second such attack on a prison officers car in that area in two years  highlights the difficult nature of the job.

It shows how the risks of our job dont stop at the prison gates, he said.

Garda investigations into the incident are ongoing with the results of forensic tests awaited.

The incident occurred in an estate near Blarney, around 1am on Saturday.

The car, which was parked outside the prison officers family home, was gutted after a suspected firebomb was thrown through its windscreen. Two suspects were seen running away.

Firefighters arrived quickly and extinguished the blaze but not before the car was gutted and extensive scorch damage was caused to the front of the house.

It is the fourth arson attack in the Blarney area in recent years.

Blarney Garda Station was gutted in an overnight arson attack in October 2008, forcing gardai to move into temporary accommodation nearby. Eight months later, arsonists unsuccessfully targeted the temporary office.

A petrol bomb was thrown into a Gatso van parked in the Tower area on August 27, 2009, as a garda sat inside. A man who was subsequently charged in connection with that incident was found not guilty by direction of the trial judge in April 2013 following legal argument around the legality of his arrest.

In May 2015, a prison officers car was firebombed outside her home in the Blarney area, just two weeks after a failed firebomb attack.

Gardai have appealed to anyone with information in relation to this latest incident to contact Gurranabraher garda station.

Meanwhile, Blarney resident and former lord mayor of Cork Joe OCallaghan described the weekend incident as an outrageous attack by thugs.

He said: Hopefully those responsible for this cowardly act will be apprehended and dealt with accordingly.

The law should massively increase sentences for aggravated violence against people and their property and the judiciary should wake up and realise this.

Society has become indifferent and cowed by the level of violence and the influence of PC brigades who concentrate more on the plight of criminals rather than victims.

He called on local people to rally around the prison officers family.
Cobh/Glanmire municipal district council has initiated the move after hearing that Cllr Diarmaid OCadhla had recently discussed the merit of it with Australian ambassador Richard Andrews.

He said Sydney and Cork were not just connected by the size of their harbours, but had huge historical links.

These included Spike Island, from which thousands of convicts were transported to Australia in the 19th century.

Cllr Kieran McCarthy agreed with him, saying that each year Cobh hosted a special Australia Day which was the highlight of the towns social calendar.

Cllr McCarthy said many visiting Australians were very interested in the history of transportation.

The town is absolutely buzzing on Australia Day and theres more money spent in Cobh on that day than when any other cruise liners come in. The Australians spend more money than any other nationality, Cllr McCarthy said.

Council officials said Cork County Council has a policy whereby approval is needed by its corporate affairs department if cities are to twin.

On hearing this Cllr OCadhla said that the municipal district could twin just the harbour areas.

He said he wanted the municipal district to drive the project, which would mean that a cost-analysis study of the cost and benefits would have to be undertaken.

Council officials said they would look into this and also seek advice from their corporate affairs department.

Cllr OCadhla said the Australian Ambassador wanted to develop cultural and business links between the two areas and, in his opinion, it was an opportunity not to be missed.

Meanwhile, the municipal district council is planning to enter a Cobh Tourism project for an EU award.

Cobh became the first in Ireland to create a specific welcome programme for Chinese visitors, which will be recognised by all tour operators in China.

Earlier this year Cobh Tourism arranged a Welcome training programme with the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI), the worlds leading independent research institute for Chinese outbound tourism, and the Centre for Competitiveness, aimed at attracting and appropriately welcoming Chinese visitors to the town.

Cllr OCadhla said that 2018 is EU-China tourism year and that the Cobh project should be submitted for the award of European Capital of Smart Tourism.

Its a large opportunity for Cobh. I believe very few bodies in Europe have approval for China tourism, he said.

Cllr Sinead Sheppard said the municipal district council should meet with Cobh Tourism to discuss a plan. Council officials said they were fully supportive of the move.

The municipal district council has also signalled that it plans to put up a statue in the town to commemorate Jack Doyle.

Regarded as Cobhs most famous son, Doyle was a heavyweight boxer who became a Hollywood film star.

Despite accumulating serious wealth, Doyle drank away his fortune and died destitute in London.
GERMANY, preparing for this months federal election, seems remarkably resistant to the populism that has challenged other Western societies.

With the right-wing, populist, Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD), and their far-left competitors, Die Linke, both hovering at 10% in the polls, a victory for the chancellor, Angela Merkel, is the most likely result.

But that doesnt mean that Germans are satisfied.

A Merkel-led government could either be a continuation of the grand coalition between her Christian Democrats and the centre-left Social Democrats, or some other political constellation.

Either case would imply that Germany is less vulnerable to the populist temptation than some of its Western counterparts.

This is often attributed to two structural causes.

The first is Germanys singular, historic track record of right- and left-wing totalitarianism. And, indeed, the legacy of Third Reich hyper-chauvinism and actually existing socialism in the eastern part of the country has inculcated in most Germans a cautious centrism, rendering extremist parties unsupportable for the majority of voters.

In Germany  even more so than in most other countries  the more extreme a political party becomes, the more limited its popular backing.

The public response to recent, inflammatory statements from prominent AfD leaders confirms this rule.

The call by Bjorn Hocke, the AfDs state leader in Thuringia, for an 180-degree turn from the post-World War II tradition of atoning for the crimes of the Nazi era, and AfD deputy leader, Alexander Gaulands reference to disposing of Germanys integration minister (who is of Turkish origin) in Anatolia, repelled voters.

Likewise, Die Linkes call to abolish NATO, together with its cozying up to Russia, has left the party politically toxic in most of western Germany.

The second commonly cited cause of Germanys resilience to populism is its economic strength. The countrys unemployment rate is at a record low, and GDP has grown by 10% since 2013.

Add to that a functioning welfare system, and it is clear why the inequality-focused outrage that has fuelled voter revolts elsewhere is gaining little traction in Germany.

But this does not mean that all is quiet on the populist front. In fact, the weak support for populist parties in German elections obscures a dissatisfaction in German society that is strikingly similar to the anger that has fuelled the rise of anti-establishment parties in Europe and beyond.

According to one recent opinion poll, 71% of German voters distrust their government, while 70% have no faith in the reporting of the mainstream media.

Established political parties fare even worse: 80% of Germans trust political parties little or not at all, and 60% no longer believe that they can devise solutions to pressing problems.

Moreover, in a list of trusted professions compiled by the Global Trust Report, last year, German politicians came in dead last  well behind insurance agents and advertising specialists.

At the same time, the number of attacks  from insults to property damage to bodily harm  against elected officials tripled in 2016.

Nowadays, even public support for democracy cannot be taken for granted in Germany.

According to one recent poll, only 62% of young Germans agreed that rule of the people by the people was the best form of government. Thats hardly a robust majority.

Beyond such general scepticism, there is a growing gap between the views of ordinary citizens and the governments policy approach, the so-called Berlin consensus.

This is particularly apparent with respect to migration: contrary to the view shared by the entire political establishment, a majority of Germans wants to close the countrys borders to refugees, with 70% believing that Islam does not belong to Germany.

Perhaps more surprising, there is a similar disparity between voters and political leaders on certain economic issues.

Only about 31% of German voters oppose kicking Greece out of the eurozone, something that German leaders have proved loath to do. And two-thirds of Germans support protectionist measures, which are derided among most politicians, to safeguard German jobs.

Given this widespread support for such positions, it is too early to say that Germany is somehow immune to populism.

True, historical taboos and a booming economy have so far prevented popular discontent from surging into the corridors of power.

But that discontent continues to bubble beneath the surface  manifested on social media and in political absenteeism  and it shows no signs of waning.

So, rather than taking comfort in populist parties relatively weak performance in this months election, Germanys political class should take action.

For starters, political parties should recognise Germanys hidden populism for what it is: a serious structural challenge.

They should then redouble their efforts to reach out to disgruntled voters on the left and the right, who  justifiably or not  feel economically, culturally, and politically disenfranchised.

Here, post-election proceedings may prove decisive. While continuing the current coalition may seem advisable in policy terms, it could well strengthen the hand of advocates of radical political change.

It may seem paradoxical, but fighting extremism in Germany may demand less political centrism. In fact, four more years of stability in Berlin could ultimately bring Germanys anti-populist Sonderweg to an abrupt end.

Michael Broning is head of the International Policy Department of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, a political foundation affiliated with the Social Democratic Party of Germany.

Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2017.
Even celebrity stuff can knock actual news off its perch  when famous people marry, reproduce, divorce or die, its afforded similar space in our newsfeeds  and our psyches, as hurricanes, genocide and politics. The celeb stuff is easier to think about and less

depressing.

This results in the relationship between the makers and the consumers of news being co-dependent to the point that news makers are scared of boring news

consumers, and so news becomes either more sensationalist or trivialised.

Stories  thats what they are called, stories  have a shelf life. The news moves on, so that we dont get bored.

Meanwhile, in real life, the stories dont go away, they just stop being reported, written about, and therefore thought about. We dont hear about them in mainstream media, so we assume they no longer exist. Refugees had their moment, but now we have moved on, apart from the ones fleeing Myanmar, but thats too far away to worry about, so lets look at an athletes new baby or a royal starting school or whatever. Its easier.

Except refugees have not gone away. The ones in Calais who inspired and mobilised such magnificent support from Irish people are still there  we just dont hear about them anymore. Since the Jungle camp was demolished by the French authorities and its citizens bussed away, we assumed, not unreasonably, that the problem had been solved.

Except it hasnt. Calais is still 20km from Dover. There are almost one thousand people living rough in the Calais area, in even worse conditions than the Jungle, hoping to reach the UK where they have family and connections. In this instance, living rough means living in woods without shelter; tents and sleeping bags confiscated daily by police; surviving on tiny amounts of food provided by tiny charities whose tiny resources have dwindled almost to nothing. An estimated 200 of the people in Calais are unaccompanied minors. Kids on their own.

This is no longer in the news, because it is last years news. Appeals for blankets, tents, sleeping bags, food, warm clothes, medicine  havent we already done that? Isnt that story finished? Meanwhile, the warehouse in Calais has run out of desperately needed sleeping bags, socks, jumpers. Winter is coming.

On the Greek island of Samos, the refugee camp can hold 700 people. It currently accommodates 2,500, including 600 children, many of whom are sleeping on the ground. There is not enough anything  food, clothes, resources. It is not in the news. Maybe we need to go beyond the news, so that we can connect with the reality of what we need to do to help.
By continuing to browse or by clicking "Accept," you agree to our site's privacy policy.
WASHINGTON -- The Trump administration, already struggling with a big nuclear problem in North Korea, is about to raise another one by questioning the implementation of the nuclear agreement with Iran.

A senior administration official said that President Trump will share his concerns about Iranian compliance with global leaders gathering next week for the United Nations General Assembly. The official said Trump wants tighter inspection of Iranian facilities and a re-examination of the "sunset clause" that would allow Iran to resume aspects of its nuclear program in 10 to 15 years.

Trump isn't proposing to re-open negotiations but instead threatening to scuttle the deal altogether if Iran doesn't offer concessions. "He's willing to leave the agreement if we don't ... fix the deal," the official said. "He's willing to cut bait and walk away."

Trump's position reflects his oft-stated view that the Iran nuclear pact is "the worst deal ever negotiated." He has levied this attack without discussing whether U.S. interests would be served by scrapping one of the few successful counterproliferation agreements that exist.

An American rebuff to Iran, for example, would undermine whatever slim hope exists for negotiating a denuclearization agreement with North Korea. And despite White House talk of seeking a "united front" among allies, there's no sign of support among European nations, even those critical of Iranian behavior, such as France. President Emmanuel Macron said this month that while he's concerned about Iran's post-2025 status, "the 2015 agreement is what enables us to establish a constructive and demanding dialogue with Iran."

Trump's apparent hope that Iran will offer unilateral concessions is questioned by Iran experts. "I don't believe Tehran would be ready at all to renegotiate the deal," said Seyed Hossein Mousavian, a former Iranian official who now teaches at Princeton but remains in touch with his ex-colleagues. He called the idea a "nonstarter."

Olli Heinonen, a former senior official at the International Atomic Energy Agency, said in an interview that the administration's arguments for better Iranian compliance have some merit.

Heinonen argued, for example, that it is a "valid question" whether Tehran is abiding by the cap on its heavy-water stockpile of 130 metric tons when it allegedly still owns many tons more that have been shipped to Oman and stored there, awaiting buyers. He also said it is "legitimate" to question whether Iran is allowing full inspection of all potential nuclear-related facilities. And he agreed that the sunset provision should be "revisited," rather than "just kicking the can down the road."

Trump's push for concessions on the nuclear agreement is accompanied by sharp criticism of Iranian behavior in regional conflicts. The senior administration official listed a string of what he termed Tehran's "destabilizing" actions through proxies. He charged that Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have threatened navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait with mines and missiles, and that they are installing ballistic missiles in Yemen that could target Riyadh and Abu Dhabi.

The administration official also charged that Iran is building precision-guided missiles in Syria that could be used against Israel; sending Iraqi Shiite militias into eastern Syria to aid the regime there; and providing deadly "explosively formed penetrators," or EFPs, to Shiite rebels in Bahrain. This last is an especially emotional issue for U.S. commanders because Iran-supplied EFPs killed many American soldiers in Iraq.

A second administration official provided links to 25 media reports to back up the first official's allegations about Iranian behavior. Some of these appeared in Arab media outlets that are strongly anti-Iran; they couldn't be confirmed independently.

The Trump administration's dossier about Iranian activity is part of a new, get-tough strategy for dealing with Tehran, the first official said. Trump reviewed this approach with his advisers last Friday. He will make a final decision soon about Iran policies, including whether to recertify in October that Iran is complying with the nuclear agreement.

Bill Burns, who as deputy secretary of state helped launch the secret diplomacy that led to the Iran agreement, was blunt about what Trump may be setting in motion. "If we don't certify the agreement, that will be perceived -- rightly -- as us beginning to walk away from it. That will put us in a weaker, not a stronger, position" in dealing with Iranian behavior.

The right question to ask is the same one as when the deal was being negotiated: Does this agreement, with all its flaws, make the U.S. and its allies safer than they would be with no agreement? This security metric, it seems to me, still favors keeping the deal.

The Washington Post
WASHINGTON  It is neither paranoid nor alarmist to begin asking if the Trump administration plans to rationalize blocking a large number of voters who oppose the president from casting ballots in 2018 and 2020. And it is imperative that the civic-minded of all parties demand the disbanding of a government commission whose very existence is based on a lie.

The lying doesnt stop. Kris Kobach, the Kansas secretary of state, is vice chairman of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity. Its name reminds us why the adjective Orwellian was invented. Kobach chose to use a meeting of the commission held in New Hampshire on Tuesday to continue to cast doubt on the states election results, even after his charges of voter fraud had fallen apart.

It was an object lesson into how Trumpists will twist, cook and distort facts about voting to manufacture numbers that sound ominous but vanish into the ether as soon as theyre examined.

That Kobach had initially made his case on Breitbart, the right-wing website, is a sign that the man in charge of what is supposed to be a sober inquiry is simply a propagandist. (Vice President Pence is the nominal chair of the commission, but he has a few other things to do.)

Heres how Kobach confected his Breitbart tale. New Hampshire allows would-be voters to register on Election Day. Kobach noted that 6,540 same-day registrants used out-of-state drivers licenses to verify their identity.

This is perfectly legal under New Hampshire law, but Kobachs aha! moment was to reveal that ten months after the election (the damning italics are his), only 1,227 of the 6,540 had either obtained New Hampshire drivers licenses or registered a vehicle. Ergo, Kobach concluded of the remainder, It seems that they never were bona fide residents of the state.

And then he took several more leaps. First he labeled the 5,313 as fraudulent votes. Then he noted that Democrat Maggie Hassan defeated then-incumbent Republican Sen. Kelly Ayotte by 1,017 votes. His explosive claim: If 59.2 percent or more of these fake voters went for Hassan, the election was stolen through voter fraud. Yes, he wrote stolen.

Kobach pegged Hillary Clintons margin over Donald Trump in the state at 2,732, so by his reckoning, she could have been put over the top if 74.8 percent of these alleged fraudsters went her way.

It all sounds nice and scientific. Heres the problem: Backed by other election law specialists, New Hampshires Secretary of State Bill Gardner, a Democratic member of the commission, noted that Kobach simply ignored what the states election law actually says. It allows voting by those domiciled in the state  people who spend most of their nights in New Hampshire  and not just residents. Yes, they can vote even if they have drivers licenses from other states.

This category includes college students, and New Hampshire Public Radio found that the highest rates of voting using out-of-state IDs occurred in college towns.

So Kobachs charges of fraud are themselves fraudulent, but he cant seem to admit outright that he was simply wrong. Instead, sounding like a novelist, he said at the commission meeting on Tuesday that he might not have found the right word to describe the situation. He asked plaintively if its possible to condense a complex legal issue into an 800-word column.

Such after-the-fact humility doesnt explain his willingness to shoot first and check the facts later, or why he was still questioning the 2016 result. Absent more data, he said, we will never know the answer regarding the legitimacy of this particular election.

But we do know the answer. It was legitimate. We also know the answer to the question about the existence of in-person voter fraud: There is almost none of it. This is true despite Trumps groundless post-election claim that 3 million to 5 million illegal votes were cast in 2016. When he could not produce a shred of evidence, he named a commission that would concoct some.

We should, indeed, be discussing ways of making our elections much better. We could build on the 2014 report from a genuinely bipartisan commission led by two battle-hardened election lawyers, Republican Ben Ginsberg and Democrat Bob Bauer.

Kobachs commission, however, is just looking for ways to justify new barriers to voting by groups (those students, for example) not inclined to support Trump, and it doesnt care what the facts are.

We do not need an official government body whose job is to spin fictional horror stories.
This year's Nov. 8 election didn't present any unforeseen outcomes, at least as it pertains to Dorchester County Council races. However, the competition between Republican Rita May Ranck and Democrat Carlisle Harrison was one of the more thrilling ones in the State, as the latter temporarily Read moreNewly elected Councilmember Rita May Ranck ready to 'work' and 'listen'
Jared Genser, lawyer for detained Baquer and Siamak Namazi, on Monday released the opinion [text, PDF] from the UN Working Group on arbitrary detention [official website], which concluded that Iran was illegally detaining the father and son without legitimate reason.

The non binding opinion was issued by the panel of five experts on international humanitarian law. The panel cited the Iranian actions as depriving the men of their liberty in direct violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights [materials] and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights [text]. The opinion demanded that Iran, immediately and accord them an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law.

Genser, who received the opinion in August, urges [NYT report] that, it is time for Iran to resolve these cases and allow the Namazis to be reunited with their family. The choice to release the opinion right before the gathering at the United Nations surely means to invite pressure for his clients release.

Both men were sentenced [JURIST report] in 2016 to 10 years in prison following convictions on charges that they spied and cooperated with the US.
Russias geopolitical intentions set it on a collision course with NATO. Has Europe been doing a good job of defending itself?

NATO and Russia

In her recent article Russia  A Threat to European Security? A View from Germany, Gabriele Scholer argues that NATOs recent counteraction against Russia amounts to provocative behaviour, since it could be seen as a threat to Russian security. Since 1989 and the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia has seen the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact and the loss of much of its territorial control and global influence. Not only has Russia lost its status as a major world power, it has given that very power up to its arch-enemy from the Cold War: the United States or rather NATO, when the latter integrated all the former Eastern European Warsaw Pact states and three former USRR republics to boot.

After this historical and political reasoning, Scholer openly asks: Who is perceived to pose a threat to whom? claiming that this is a more critical and logical question than who started the conflict?

As NATO troops are currently deployed in Poland and the Baltics, Scholer goes on by saying that deploying NATO troops in Central and Eastern Europe on a permanent basis would be a clear violation of the Founding Act on Mutual Relations, Cooperation and Security between NATO and the Russian Federation signed in Paris in 1997. The act was initiated to ease Moscows concerns about NATOs eastern enlargement and its original mission was to build together a lasting and inclusive peace in the Euro-Atlantic area on the principles of democracy and cooperative security.

However, as Russia started to regain political, economic and military strength, its leadership took a more confrontational stance which was not aligned with Western values. Published early in 2017 by the Royal United Services for Defence and Security Studies, the book NATO and the North Atlantic: Revitalising Collective Defence supports the argument that Russia is trying to meddle in Western affairs, claiming as its starting point that Russia is blatantly attempting to change the rules and principles that serve as the foundation of European law and order. The greater part of this works thesis puts Russia at the centre of the Wests military and defence concerns, giving NATO a palpable reason for its comeback as an essential international organisation.

NATOs revamped role

During the US presidential campaign, Donald Trump, then the Republican candidate, frequently contested NATOs existence, calling it obsolete, while accusing its members of not upholding their commitment of paying 2% of their GDP to the Brussels-based organisation.

In April this year, after a meeting with NATOs Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington DC, President Trump backtracked one of his most controversial campaign promises, saying NATO was no longer obsolete. According to the analyst Michael Chossudovsky, pro-NATO advisers influenced Trump to change his stance, showing that the US President is not exerting any presidential authority but caving in to the dominant interests of the US elites.

In Europe, NATO is widely perceived as an indispensable institution for the security of the continent, based on the argument of a resurgent Russia and a vulnerable Europe following the terror attacks in several European cities.

On the same note, Andrew A. Michta wrote for Carnegie Europe: A Common Threat Assessment for NATO? pointing out two issues that are rapidly rising to the top of the organisations agenda: regionally, a resurgent and geo-strategically assertive Russia and globally, the accelerating threat of Islamic terrorism. Michta goes on, saying that this is a unique opportunity for NATO to align the security outlooks of key European members with that of the US.

Nevertheless, in May, on the occasion of the first NATO summit attended by Trump, in Brussels, the US president kept his accusations towards 23 of the 28 NATO members of being freeloaders for not paying their fair share towards military protection. The US current defence budget of $824.6 billion is the second largest item of federal government expenditure after social security at $1 trillion.

Russia: Declining power or imminent threat?

Now, lets take a look at how the Western media has been portraying Russias conduct. The Economist published in October 2016 The threat from Russia, where it highlighted the seemingly endless episode of Russia hacking the American election and touched on the mass slaughter in Syria, the annexation of Crimea and accusations of Russia talking casually about using nuclear weapons.

While the idea of a fragmented Europe is likely to be in the Kremlins interests, the Russian intervention in the Syrian conflict is evidently not in the Wests interests.

Syrias president Bashar al-Assad said during an interview with a Chinese news broadcaster that the only serious force effectively fighting the Islamic State together with Syria is Russia. Assad went further, saying that the US deployment of military in Syrian territory was illegal since they were not invited. Interestingly, Reuters published a similar news piece  Assad calls US forces invaders but still hopeful on Trump  yet it opted to leave out Assads declarations on Russia.

On the occasion of the forthcoming celebration of the 1917 October Revolution, Foreign Policy (FP) magazine wrote, last December, The Soviet Union is Gone, But Its Still Collapsing, in which a number of FPs contributors outlined the reasons behind the Russian Federations stagnation over time, mainly from the 2000s. The authors pointed out that Russia should not base its foreign policy on ideology and claimed that the former Empire cant lead through imperialism. Moreover, they claim that the advent of globalisation has only empowered autocrats.

In March 2017, James Kirchick wrote for FP the article The Plot Against Europe, in which he envisages a gloomy future where Putin will roll into Estonia, triggering the first in a series of assaults.

FP magazine has also been publishing differing views on the so-called Russian threat. In his article entitled Vladimir Putin Isnt a Supervillain, Mark Lawrence Shred argues that Russia is neither the global menace, nor dying superpower, of Americas increasingly hysterical fantasies. For the author, reality lies between the extremes  a declining power and an imminent threat. Russia is not nearly the global menace that many fear, nor is it doomed to collapse. Russias geopolitical strength is indeed constrained by its demographic, economic, social, and political weaknesses, but those arent as catastrophic as theyre often made to be.

On the other hand, in March 2017, EUobserver published an article Russian missiles pose new threat to Europe, in which critics from the US and Germany expressed concerns about the Russian missiles deployed in Kaliningrad, the Russian enclave between Poland and Lithuania. On 10 March, after the EU summit in Brussels, EUobserver delivered another alarming title: EU alarmed by Russian meddling in Balkans. At stake are growing fears of nationalist and ethnic tensions in the region that EU leaders believe to be the ideal opportunity for Russian interference in the form of disinformation campaigns.

Who is threatening whom?

Since the Russian annexation of Crimea in February 2014, tensions have grown between Moscow and the West. Endless warnings were delivered by EU leaders until economic sanctions were imposed on Russia. While Russia claims Crimea as its rightful territory, the West, backed by NATO, started moving forward with military deployments in the Baltics, Poland and Romania. The Kremlin did not take long to react to the military deployed in Poland and the Baltics, branding it a threat to Russias national security.

The Cold War feeling has been growing more intense. At least, thats what the media are conveying on both East and West. Will Putin make an attempt on European soil through the Baltic? What should NATO do to make it more difficult to present its largely defensive acts as aggressive moves against Russia?

Comparing the pictures one sees through the lenses of Western media on the one hand, and the RT and Sputnik, often rightly branded as the Kremlins propaganda outlets, on the other, one cannot help but see yet another war of words and (dis)information.
BROKEN BOW  From the Gulf Coast to the Nebraska Sandhills, chef David Utley has infused his Southern style into his hearty cuisine.

Utley, 60, has carried Southern styles  Cajun creole, Low Country and Southwestern  into his cooking at the Bonfire Grill & Pub in Broken Bow.

Utley, who has spent most of his years in Houston, has traveled the country working as an executive chef for hotels and resorts the last 33 years. He has worked in places such as Hollywood Casino & Hotel in St. Louis, Grand Casino Hotel and Spa in Biloxi, Miss., and Ballys in Atlantic City, N.J.

In April, Utley moved from seafood country in Baton Rouge, La., to beef country in Broken Bow. Utley said he decided to make the move because his kids are grown and he was ready for a slower pace of life.

I just wanted a change from the big city corporation, big company to small town, he said.

That change of atmosphere includes a historic setting. The Bonfire Grill is set on the main level of the historic Arrow Hotel on the southwest corner of Broken Bows picturesque city square. The 1928 hotel features faux copper ceilings, rich woods and wall-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city square, which offers a charming lunch or dinner setting for its Bonfire Grill diners.

Booths in the dining room are made from old Arrow Hotel doors, and Western paintings adorn the walls in the dining room and private dining room, formerly the Cigar Room. The separate bar and lounge is equally as inviting with its floor to ceiling windows on the south and east walls.

Bonfire Grill regulars can still expect to find their classic Nebraska favorites such as hamburgers and Omaha steaks on the menu, but they are alongside Utleys Southern cuisine.

Diners can enjoy seafood at lunch with the shrimp etouffee, a stew with steamed rice, or savor one of the many other seafood items on the dinner menu, which includes shrimp and grits, Maine lobster knuckle, champagne mac n cheese, jumbo shrimp and freshwater walleye pike fillet. A true Southern experience can also be enjoyed with a Louisiana shrimp boil each Thursday night.

The most popular dinner items, Utley said, are still beef selections, such as the 14-ounce or 10-ounce Omaha certified black angus prime rib, 16-ounce black angus sirloin in a toasted barbecue rub or the 8-ounce flat iron steak. But occasionally the charred blackened shrimp and grits rise to the top as one of the evening favorites.

Utley has even created a dish with the best of Midwestern and Southern worlds.

I took kind of a Midwestern and then I put a little Louisiana, he said of his cast iron smoked pork hash.

The dish includes five-grain rice, fresh roasted peppers and fried corn hush puppies.

Utleys dishes all remade from scratch, excluding the bread, which they do bake in the restaurant.

Baker Bob Moffit also makes his desserts such as creme brulee, Belgian chocolate fudge bar and strawberry shortcake from start to finish.

York resident Bill Lundy of York was traveling west through Broken Bow Friday on his way to Rapid City, S.D., with family and friends. Lundy, who has eaten the Bonfire Grill before, said he enjoyed the Rowdy Reuben sandwich, piled high with house-smoked pork on grilled jalapeno corn bread.

On a scale of a one to 10, it was a 10, he said.
As Americans absorb the latest details of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. elections  via hundreds of fake Facebook accounts  Germans have been expecting similar interference in their Sept. 24 federal election.

But the fact that no Russian hack attack has occurred so far is only one of the surprises of Germanys campaign season. Six months ago, a tide of uber-nationalist populism seemed to be sweeping Europe  in the wake of Britains Brexit vote and Donald Trumps nationalist surge. Three-term German Chancellor Angela Merkel appeared on the rocks after permitting a million refugees to enter Germany in 2015.

Fast forward to now, and Merkel is poised to win a fourth term handily, following on the May victory of centrist Emmanuel Macron in French presidential elections. The fact that Merkel is a shoo-in is amazing, says Karen Donfried, president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Germans have turned back to Mutti (mother) Merkel as a symbol of stability at a time of global chaos.

But Americans, too, have a vested interest in the resurgence of Mutti (with whom President Donald Trump has a famously tense relationship). At a time when Trumps version of America First has degraded Americas global standing, Merkel has emerged as the de facto leader of the West.

Ill get to the German strategy vs. Russian election manipulation in a moment, but first a bit about how Merkel did it. Only a year ago, on a trip to Berlin and Dresden, I visited overloaded centers crammed with Afghan and Syrian refugees, and interviewed nationalist-populist members of the AFD (Alternative for Deutschland) party who hoped to capitalize on the backlash.

But, says Helga Barth, political affairs minister at the German Embassy in Washington, the refugee numbers are now way down. The European Union concluded a pact with Istanbul to halt the refugee flow from Turkey into Greece and onward to Western Europe. Germany (along with France and the European Union) is also funding and training Libyan coast guards to diminish the flow from North Africa.

The refugee problem is far, far from over. But, said Donfried, speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, Merkel has convinced the public she is managing the problem.

The populist AFD party will indeed enter the national parliament for the first time, probably getting at least 10 percent of the vote, and possibly becoming the third-largest German party. But the leader of Germany will still be a strong woman who stands for openness and tolerance and believes in NATO and a united Europe.

Merkel and Macron  or M&M, as they are often labeled in the European press  is now a new power duo that, at least in theory, could reinvigorate the European Union and European defense efforts. Whether they can succeed, the prospects are far more hopeful than in 2016.

There are many reasons for Americans to hope that M&M make progress. Not least of those is Merkels firmness so far in dealing with Vladimir Putin.

Having grown up in communist East Germany, where Putin served as a KGB colonel, Merkel has a full grasp of the Russian leaders desire to re-establish hegemony over parts of the lost Russian empire.

Nowhere is that disparity more evident than in the German, and French, denunciations of Russian cyberhacking of elections  and the determined denials of Trump.

German officials had expected cyber interference in their elections  given that suspected Russian hackers had stolen massive amounts of emails after breaking into the computer networks of the German parliament in 2015. According to Spiegel online, the hack was the work of the same group that attacked the campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Macron.

Yet no embarrassing revelations from that lode have emerged  so far  nor has Russian unleashed its propaganda networks and bots to spread fake news.

One reason may be the aggressive efforts of German authorities to publicize and combat Russian sabotage efforts and name Russia-linked hacking groups as soon as the attacks happen. Case in point: the aggressive Russian media promotion of a false story in 2016 of the rape of a Russian-German girl by Arab migrants.

But the biggest reason may be that Russians know that Merkel would fight back. Given her East German upbringing, Mutti understands Russian active measures. Moreover, she has observed how Macron responded to massive attempts at hacking the French election. The French leader confronted Putin in public about the fake news that Russian networks spread about Macron and his campaign.

So a Merkel victory means there will be two leading European heads of state who understand Putin well and will stand up against Russian efforts to disrupt European democracy and elections.

Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer. Readers may write to her at: Philadelphia Inquirer, P.O. Box 8263, Philadelphia, PA 19101, or by email at trubin@phillynews.com.
A major arms purchase from Russia by Turkey may be a signal of an increasingly important tectonic shift in political alignments among Iran, Russia and Turkey, with significance for U.S. relations with them, and in the world.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, a longtime member of NATO, announced the down payment to Russia on the purchase of an S-400 surface-to-air missile system. It was not Turkeys first shot at buying an outside-of-NATO  and thus not interoperable  weapons system. Nor was Turkey the first NATO member to buy weapons from Russia. But it could well be a strong signal of the level of discontent in Erdogans Turkey with the countrys previous pro-Western orientation.

It also could be an indication of growing cooperation, moving toward an alliance, among three strong countries of the region, Iran, Russia and Turkey. Such a development would be clear evidence both of the decline of U.S. influence in the region, a result of missed opportunities, and what could become increasingly troublesome coordination among three relatively strong countries.

On another level, the Russian sale to the Turks was also a rich missed sale on the part of the American defense industry, a matter no doubt of some concern to the Trump administration. It clearly attaches importance to such matters, an example being the announcement of big arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

It used to be, during the Cold War, that Turkeys and Irans relationships with the United States served as their bulwark against engulfment by the neighboring, ambitious Soviet Union. Now, U.S. relations with all three have pretty much gone wrong.

If the absence of fruitful U.S. relations with Iran, Russia and Turkey lead to closer cooperation among them, as the Turkish arms purchase may indicate, the United States will face in that region an even greater problem than it does now with the various wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen.

By the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The booth of the Nhan Dan Newspaper (Photo: baotintuc.vn)

The booth of Vietnam features a place for the exhibition of Nhan Dan (People) Newspaper and another showcasing the countrys traditional cuisine.

The exhibition was opened with Vietnamese Ambassador to France Nguyen Ngoc Son, Lao Ambassador Yong Chanthalangsy and Politburo member of the French Communist Party Denis Rondepierre in attendance.

Speaking at the launching event, Nhan Dan Newspapers Deputy Editor-in-Chief Dinh Nhu Hoan said the newspaper is honoured to return to this years festival and it is an opportunity to demonstrate the close ties between the two countries Communist Parties, newspapers, and people.

The three-day festival depicts values of peace and human security and spirit of international solidarity, Rondepierre said, adding that it aims to promote a world of equality, progress and solidarity.

Seminars at the event focus to address the global pressing issues, including maintaining peace in the Middle East, the environment and climate change issues, inequality and poverty, struggle for democracy and EU reforms.

The festival also features cultural performances, book introduction, arts exhibitions, mobile cinema and discussions on literature./.
Finance Minister Bill Morneau takes questions as the Liberal cabinet meets in St. John's, N.L. on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017. The federal Finance Department says the government ran a smaller deficit than it was expecting in the spring budget, ending its 2016-17 fiscal year with a deficit of $17.8 billion. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to form
The visit, hosted by Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade (MoIT) Tran Tuan Anh, aims to enhance Vietnam-Denmark partnership in Energy and Climate sector and to mark the next phase of the Energy Partnership Program 2017-2020.

Vice Minister Thomas Egebo is scheduled to meet with leaders of MoIT, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh citys Peoples Committees to discuss investment plans in energy and climate change as well as commercial cooperation between two countries. He will also attend the launching of Vietnam Energy Outlook Report and visit the National Load Dispatch Center to learn & discuss about challenges for renewable energy integration in the power system.

Before leaving Vietnam, the visiting official will explore challenges and opportunities of doing business in Vietnam by attending meetings with Danish companies in Ho Chi Minh city.

Photo for illustraiton

Since 1994, Denmark has provided more than USD1.3 billion in grant development assistance to Vietnam, thus contributing to the strong growth and economic development which has taken place in the nation.

In November 2011, Denmark signed a joint declaration with the Vietnamese Government to build a strategic partnership in the areas of climate change, environment, energy and green growth. This entails the continued support to the development and implementation of strategies, programs and action plans of Vietnam in the field of climate change, environment, energy and green growth. The two sides agree to encourage the use of Danish expertise and technology within energy efficiency, renewable energy, water and waste management

Further, Denmark has supported the Vietnam Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program to reduce the energy consumption rate by 5-8% of the business as usual scenario.

Of further significance is the Low Carbon transition in Energy Efficiency sector in Vietnam (LCEE) program, a financial mechanism running from 2013-2017 to support SMEs investing in green and energy saving technologies.

In 2013 Denmark and Vietnam signed a comprehensive partnership agreement aimed at increasing the already flourishing cooperation within trade and green growth. Subsequently, new partnerships between the Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy (valid until June 28th, 2015) and the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ministry of Construction was established to enable sharing of Danish know-how and state of the art technology in the energy sector to Vietnam authorities and businesses./.
Kate McKinnon accepts the award for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for "Saturday Night Live" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)
Editors note: Each Monday, the Kenosha News takes a look at the life of a Kenosha County resident who recently died. We share with you, through the memories of family and friends, a life remembered.

Lydia Badillo had a contagious enthusiasm for life.

Her family called her creative, spontaneous, spunky and fiesty.

Every day she was so full of passion for everything, said grandson Edgar Perez. She loved everything she did and experienced.

She embraced new adventures, said her daughter, Linda Badillo. She would say, Never turn down an experience.

As a girl, the redhead was a creative force in her small town of Coahuila, Mexico, said her daughter and grandson.

She organized beauty pageants among her friends as well as dances and theater nights, Linda said. She even helped carry the musicians drums down a hill, Linda said.

She was the leader of the pack.

When she was just 21, Lydia embarked on the new experience, leaving Mexico for a new life with her new husband, a Wisconsin native.

Lydia Badillo, 79, of Kenosha, died Aug. 21 at Aurora Medical Center. She is survived by her husband, Robert Badillo Sr.; her children, Robert Badillo Jr., Richard Badillo and Linda Badillo; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a sister, Gloria Santiago; two nieces and a nephew.

Lydia was born April 18, 1938, in Mexico to Roberto and Eloisa (Garza) Herrera. After attending local schools, she met Robert Badillo, who was visiting Mexico on leave from the Army Reserves.

Dad said that the moment he met her he knew she was the one, Linda said.

After a two-week romance, the two married in Mexico and moved to Kenosha.

Devoted to family

As her children were born, Lydia filled her home with music, food and stories, said her daughter.

She was devoted to her family: body, mind and spirit, Linda said.

Lydia held court over a loving household, full of music, said her daughter. Often she made her own music by improvising songs while she cleaned the house, Linda said. They were sort of freestyle, like she was a rapper.

As parent and grandparent, Lydia often entertained with vivid storytelling.

She was very good at impersonating voices and would play the characters, Linda said. She was so theatrical; youd get caught up in her stories.

She was over-the-top descriptive, added Edgar. Her stories were anything but dull. They were captivating.

Because of her red hair and affinity for fun, Lydia related to the comedian Lucille Ball.

She had a big laugh to match her big personality, Edgar said.

Everybodys grandma

To Edgar, Lydia was not just grandma, but otra-mama or other mother.

When I think of home, I think of Grandmas house; it was a constant in my life, Edgar said. She was everybodys grandma and embraced that role, Edgar said.

Lydia loved to receive company in her own home and made everyone feel welcome, family said.

Our house was filled with delicious aromas. She would not only give you something to eat, but make sure to pack you a plate to take home as well, Linda said.

Lydia was open with her heart as well.

She had friends from all over  Asia, Argentina  no discrimination, Linda said. One of her sayings was, If we cut ourselves, our blood is all the same; its just the shell thats different.

Lydia was proud of work she did outside her home. For years she worked in the cafeteria at Great Lakes Naval Base.

She loved it and looked forward to serving her sailors, Linda said.

Attaining citizenship

On weekends, she and Robert often went out for dinner and dancing. At 72 she was still going out dancing, Linda said.

Patriotic, Lydia attained her U.S. citizenship in 1989. It was one of her proudest moments, Linda said. Working with Kenoshas former Spanish Center, Lydia encouraged her Mexican-born peers to become citizens and exercise their right to vote.

She was known to say, If you come (to the U.S.) to work, do good by your country and family  do it right and get residency.

A happy life

Lydias family said she expressed great satisfaction with her life. She said she felt her life was complete, Linda said.

Regarding getting older, Lydia was philosophical, said Linda.

She said that each wrinkle was a badge of honor representing a sacrifice for family or a challenge she had overcome.

She lived by the motto, Life is meant to be lived, Linda said.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Get the latest property market news straight to your inbox

Plans to build four holiday homes on Greatstone seafront have moved a step closer.

Outline planning permission has already been granted to build four large homes on an empty plot of land adjacent to the Littlestone Lifeboat Station, with Shepway District Council unanimously voting in favour of supporting the option for the homes to become holiday lets.

Councillors voted down three other options including letting the homes out to tenants at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday (September 13).

Borrowing

It is unclear how much the development would cost, although the council said it will use borrowing to finance the project.

The full cost of the four holiday homes will have to be approved by councillors at a later date.

Despite concerns about a shortage of larger family homes in the Marsh, the council says the holiday lets will create jobs, support local businesses, enhance our tourism offer and generate a future revenue stream for the council.

Possible asset disposal

In addition to funding future council services, the authority has hinted the development could be sold off as an asset allowing a future capital receipt.

Subject to full budget approval, the council hopes to complete and promote the holiday properties as early as 2019.
The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel

We have more newsletters

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Sign up to our daily newsletter for all the latest Kent stories and breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.

A Folkestone family celebrated a great-grandfathers 100th birthday on Sunday (September 17).

Kenneth Locker, 100, was joined by his children, grand-children and great-grandchildren as they celebrated his reaching his centenary.

Born in Doncaster on September 17, 1917, Kenneths family moved to Dieppe during his early years.

He first worked as a page boy at a hotel before joining his port officer father at the Dieppe harbour.

When he was 18, Kenneth returned to England to join the Queens Royal Regiment.

During the war, his role as an interpreter saw him stationed in Iran, Malta and across Africa, as well as Italy where he had the honour of looking after General Montgomery.

In September 1944, while back in England, Kenneth met Ellinor and, following a whirlwind romance, the pair married on January 3, 1945.

They had three children, Margaret, Kenneth and Olwen.

His daughter Margaret Sproston, of Wood Avenue, said: He was always a good father. We had a very happy childhood.

After the war, Kenneth took on a range of jobs, including working as a port officer at Folkestone Harbour and working as a van driver and office manager for Advanced Laundries in Cheriton.

Kenneth and Ellinor worked at and ran a range of bars and hotels, including the Imperial Hotel, until Ellinor retired.

Kenneth continued to work for shipping lines until his own retirement in 1995.

The couple moved to Caernarfon, Wales in 2001 until Ellinor passed away, one day before their 64th wedding anniversary, in January 2009.

Kenneth, who has six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, moved back to Folkestone in 2010 and currently resides at Holywell House.

Daughter Margaret talked about the familys joy at her fathers achievement of reaching 100, as well as his continued independence.

We are very proud, she said.

Apart from one or two ailments he is fine. He still lives by himself and we are only five minutes down the road in case he needs me."
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Stay up to date with all the Dover news with our weekly email, as well as getting all the latest breaking news delivered directly to your inbox

An abusive father bit and spat on his former girlfriend and also poured two pints of cold water over her after he became angry when she returned home late from a wedding.

Ryan Patience, 35, of Lenacre Lane in Whitfield, escaped a jail sentence at Folkestone Magistrates Court for the unprovoked attack at their address in Dover.

Patience, who the court heard is a manager of furniture store Lenleys in Canterbury, was found guilty of assault in May which took place with the pairs' twin daughters in the house.

'Bit her nose and pulled her hair'

Rio Pahlavanpour, prosecuting, said the violent outburst happened after the victim received a number of abusive calls whilst she was out at a wedding and Patience was at home looking after their young twin daughters.

He said: When she went back to the property, the defendant pulled her hair, bit her nose, spat in her face, pulled her to the floor and poured two pints of cold water in her face.

He added: He was spitting and abusive, and locked the front door not allowing her to leave.

Patience was arrested shortly after the attack, which happened with the two children inside the house.

'Degrading and abusive'

Nigel Numas, defending, said Patience admits the relationship was domestically violent on both sides and has since ended.

Sentencing, District Judge Barron condemned the 35-year-old father for the degrading and abusive attack.

Patience was given a six month prison sentence suspended for two years, and must complete 180 hours of unpaid work.

He was ordered to pay 415 in fines  with 300 going to the victim.
We have more newsletters

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Stay up to date with all the Dover news with our weekly email, as well as getting all the latest breaking news delivered directly to your inbox

A second man has been charged with stealing Kelly Turner charity collection boxes from a number of businesses in Dover.

James Pope, 33, of no fixed address, is accused of taking donations intended for the same local cause from Tennessee takeaway in Cherry Tree Avenue on Monday, August 7, White Cliffs Bakery in Buckland Avenue on Monday, September 11 and Dominos Pizza in Pencester Road on Thursday, September 14.

He is also accused of attempting to steal another collection box from the Crabble Post Office in Buckland Avenue, Dover, on Tuesday, September 12.

Mr Pope, who has been charged with a further seven unrelated counts of shoplifting and one count of assault, appeared before Canterbury magistrates on Saturday, September 16 and was remanded in custody until a date to be determined.

Meanwhile, a second man has appeared in court charged with stealing a collection box in aid of the same charity.

Craig Dunn, 25, of Westbury Road, is accused of taking approximately 50 worth of donations from the Dovorian Restaurant in Priory Place.

He appeared before Medway magistrates on Friday, September 15 when he was bailed to appear at Folkestone Magistrates Court on Wednesday, September 20.

Astor College pupil Kelly, 16, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in October 2015, with doctors giving her just two years to live.

The NHS refused surgery giving the family no choice but to seek public funding to pay for treatment in the United States.

'Absolute disgust'

Kellys father Martin told Kent Live he was disgusted by the thefts.

It is gut-wrenching that it happened, he said.

It is absolutely appalling that someone can be so selfish and arrogant as to steal money that could contribute to saving my daughters life."

He added: "This is in counter to how supportive Dover has been generally.

"Without Dover, we would not have been able to raise what we have."

To donate to Kelly's fund click here.
Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Stay up to date with all the Dover news with our weekly email, as well as getting all the latest breaking news delivered directly to your inbox

The teenage terror suspect arrested at the Port of Dover following the Parsons Green attack was fostered by at least two families in Kent, it has been claimed.

According to The Mirror, the 18-year-old suspected of planting the tube bomb on Friday (September 15) is a refugee from Iraq who came to Britain after his parents were killed.

It is understood the suspect arrested in Dover - who has not yet been named - had come to Britain as a 15-year-old after he had spent months attempting to smuggle himself into the UK.

It has also been widely reported that the teenager lived just across the Channel for a period of time, in the notorious makeshift Calais refugee camp known as The Jungle.

A refugee charity is believed to have helped his passage into Britain in 2014 and placed him in foster care with at least two families in Kent, before he moved in with another family in South West London in the last few weeks.

It is unclear as to where in Kent the suspect was fostered.

(Image: Harvey Solomon-Brady)

Dover MP Charlie Elphicke said he was "deeply concerned" by the news.

He said: "It is important to know the full facts and circumstances in which he came to Britain and the checks that were made.

"It's clearly urgent we have answers."

Just hours after the teen was surrounded by several armed officers at the Port of Dover departure lounge, police raided the Surrey home of foster parents Ronald, 89, and Penelope Jones, 71.

The pair, who live around 100 miles away from the Kent town, were awarded with MBEs in 2009 for caring for over 250 vulnerable children, many of which included refugees from war-torn countries Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan.

Conservative leader of Spelthorne Borough Council Ian Harvey  whose ward is Sunbury East close to where the teenager had been living  said: One thing I understand is that he was an Iraqi refugee who came here aged 15.

"His parents died in Iraq.

(Image: Harvey Solomon-Brady)

The "troublemaker" teenager was arrested earlier this month but freed by cops, neighbours have claimed.

Kent Police officers arrested the 18-year-old just before 8am on suspicion of a terrorist offence in a departure area at Dover port on Saturday (September 16) following the attack which left 30 people injured.

Eyewitness reports state that the Iraqi teenager appeared shocked and "froze" on the spot as officers arrested him at the port ticket office.

The teenage suspect had been trying to leave the UK as a foot passenger on a Dover ferry at 7.50am  almost 24 hours after the blast in London.

(Image: ITV)

A 21-year-old in Hounslow, West London was also arrested at the weekend.

The national terror threat level has been reduced from "critical" to "severe" following the arrests.

Commenting on the reduction, Kent Police superintendent Phil Hibben said: "There remains nothing to suggest there is a specific threat to Kent at this time but highly visible firearms officers have been patrolling key locations in Kent as part of our current deployment.

"Additional patrols were also brought in to deal with normal day-to-day policing as a result and this will continue.

"We continue to ask the public to remain alert, but not alarmed. If anyone sees anything suspicious, they should ring 999 or alternatively report it by calling the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321."
Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.

If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .

Support our mission and join our community now.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 57F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 46F. Winds light and variable.
COPENHAGEN, Sept 18 (Reuters) - The Carlsberg Foundation, the main owner of Danish brewer Carlsberg , is investing 500 million Danish crowns ($80 million) in funds that work with water conservation, carbon reduction and sustainable food production.

The foundation will announce the investment at the opening ceremony of the New York Climate Week on Monday.

"We're not just doing this to make good, we're also doing it because it gives good yields," Flemming Besenbacher, chairman of the foundation and the brewer, told Reuters.

The amount includes 175 million crowns in Parvest Aqua, a fund that invests in companies with technologies to clean and save water, expected to give an annual yield of 11.5 percent.

"Looking at the world today, water will become a scarce resource, and that's one reason the Parvest Aqua fund has done so well," Besenbacher said.

The foundation is also investing 175 million and 100 million respectively in the Parvest funds Leaders and SmartFood, and another 50 million crowns in private equity fund Impax New Energy III, which has an expected annual yield of 12-15 percent.

The 450 million crowns for the Parvest funds were invested in late May, while the 50 million for the private equity fund will be invested throughout 2017.

The foundation has 23.5 billion crowns of its 25.4 billion crowns of investments in Carlsberg where it owns 30.3 percent of the shares and 75.25 percent of the voting rights.

Carlsberg, the world's third-largest brewer, has itself launched a programme to bring down its carbon emission and water usage drastically by 2030.

($1 = 6.2277 Danish crowns)

(Reporting by Teis Jensen; Editing by Mark Potter)
(Kitco News) - Fund managers once again pushed their net bullish positioning in gold to a multi-month high, although a recent pullback in prices likely means the next round of data from the Commodity Futures Commission will show that traders have exited from some of those positions, analysts said.

During the week-long period to Sept. 12 covered by a CFTC report released late Friday, Comex December gold fell by $11.80 to $1,332.70 an ounce, while December silver eased 5.1 cents to $17.89. However, during the reporting week, gold did hit a one-year high before falling back.

Net long or short positioning in the CFTC data reflect the difference between the total number of bullish (long) and bearish (short) contracts. Traders monitor the data to gauge the general mood of speculators, although excessively high or low numbers are viewed by many as signs of overbought or oversold markets that may be ripe for price corrections.

The rise in the net-long for the most recent report was the ninth weekly increase in a row, pointed out Commerzbank.

The price rise to a 13-month high of just shy of $1,360 was thus driven largely by speculation, Commerzbank said. Given that the gold price is now trading considerably lower, positions have presumably been squared in the meantime.

The Comex December futures have bottomed at $1,313.70 as of Monday morning, their lowest monthly level.

Money managers in the CFTCs disaggregated report hiked their net-long position in gold futures to 253,517 contracts as of Sept. 12 compared to 221,126 the week before. The increase in net length was the result of fresh buying as reflected by an 18,924 jump in gross longs. In fact, total shorts also rose, climbing by 2,595 lots.

Long positioning grew to a new yearly record as specs aggressively added longs, which more than offset the slight increase in shorts, said TD Securities. Doubts surrounding the Fed's expected rate path and North Korean tensions have seen spec length become extreme in recent weeks. But an improvement in the CPI [consumer price index] data, which saw the probability of a December rate hike spike back toward 50%, and an easing of North Korean tensions likely saw some length reduced this week.

Meanwhile, in silver, the net-long rose to 76,066 futures contracts from 52,429 the week before. The biggest portion of the rise was new buying, as total longs rose by 8,649 lots. Short covering also continued, as the number of short positions fell by 5,239.

In previous weeks, silver net length had risen mainly due to short covering rather than fresh buying.

As we have previously mentioned, silver specs still have plenty of room to grow their long exposure, in contrast to gold, TDS said. Thus, we continue to expect silver to outperform, as the silver metal remains cheap relative to gold, despite the recent strong precious metal sentiment and robust fundamentals.
BUDAPEST, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Hungary's central bank plans to accept 3-month deposits worth 125 billion forints ($482.83 million) from commercial banks at its monthly tender on Wednesday, the bank said on its page.

The central bank has limited the amount of deposits it accepts from banks in an effort to manage liquidity and channel more funds into bank lending and government debt.

The bank will hold a rate-setting meeting on Tuesday, where analysts expect it to keep its record-low 0.9 percent base rate on hold, but loosen monetary conditions further using targeted unconventional policy instruments. ($1 = 258.89 forints)

(Reporting by Gergely Szakacs and Krisztina Than)
(Kitco News) - Kinross Gold Corp. (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) will proceed with a phase-two expansion at its Tasiast gold mine in Mauritania plus an expansion at Round Mountain in Nevada, the company announced Monday.

The second-phase expansion at Tasiast will push mill capacity up to 30,000 tonnes of ore per day to produce an average of approximately 812,000 gold ounces annually for the first five years, Kinross said. The average all-in sustaining cost was pegged at $655 an ounce.

The mine currently processes 8,000 tonnes of ore a day but this will increase to 12,000 when a phase-one project is completed, according to the companys website. The first phase is expected to reach commercial production in the second quarter of 2018.

Meanwhile, a Round Mountain Phase W expansion is expected to extend mining by five years and increase life-of-mine production by 1.5 million ounces of gold, the company said. However, Kinross needs to complete the permitting process.

The combined cost of the two projects comes to a little more than $1 billion. Kinross said it expects to finance both projects with its existing liquidity and operating cash flow. As of June 30, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $1.06 billion and available credit of $1.4 million.

Kinross said construction on the phase-two Tasiast expansion is expected to begin in early 2018, with initial plant and infrastructure capital costs estimated at $590 million. Commercial production is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2020. When completed, the project is expected to generate free cash flow of $2.2 billion over the life of mine, Kinross said.

The capital costs are lower than originally forecast, said J. Paul Rollinson, president and chief executive officer. Our decision to proceed with the Tasiast phase-two expansion underscores our determination to realize the potential of this world-class asset and generate significant value for our shareholders, he added.

The expansion would replace the two current ball mills with a new larger ball mill, and add new leaching, thickening, and refinery capacity, and make additions to the mining fleet. A new power plant would be added as well. Cumulative gold production from 2020 to 2029 is projected to be 6.3 million ounces.

The company added that the Tasiast phase-one project is on time and on budget, with plant construction now two-thirds completed. The company acquired Tasiast in 2010 when it purchased Red Back Mining for $7.1 billion.

Meanwhile, the Round Mountain Phase W expansion is estimated at $230 million, plus incremental non-sustaining capitalized stripping of $215 million from 2018 to 2020. Life of mine sustaining capital is expected to be $135 million.

Stripping of Phase W ore is expected to begin in early 2018, assuming the permit process is completed, Kinross said. Construction and relocation of infrastructure is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2019, and initial low-grade Phase W ore should be encountered in mid-2019. Phase W is expected to generate incremental cash flow of $265 million and extend mining by five years from 2020 to 2024, the company said.

Lower operating costs, combined with an optimized mine plan, have contributed to a further de-risking of the project and improved returns, Rollinson said.
Ben Blanchard, Hyonhee Shin

BEIJING/SEOUL (Reuters) - The U.S. military staged bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula and Russia and China began naval exercises ahead of a U.N. General Assembly meeting on Tuesday where North Koreas nuclear threat is likely to loom large.

The flurry of military drills came after Pyongyang fired another mid-range ballistic missile over Japan on Friday and the reclusive North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on Sept. 3 in defiance of United Nations sanctions and other international pressure.

A pair of U.S. B-1B bombers and four F-35 jets flew from Guam and Japan and joined four South Korean F-15K fighters in the latest drill, South Koreas defense ministry said.

The joint drills were being conducted two to three times a month these days, Defence Minister Song Young-moo told a parliamentary hearing on Monday.

In Beijing, the official Xinhua news agency said China and Russia began naval drills off the Russian far eastern port of Vladivostok, not far from the Russia-North Korea border.

Those drills were being conducted between Peter the Great Bay, near Vladivostok, and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, to the north of Japan, it said.

The drills are the second part of China-Russian naval exercises this year, the first part of which was staged in the Baltic in July. Xinhua did not directly link the drills to current tension over North Korea.

China and Russia have repeatedly called for a peaceful solution and talks to resolve the issue.

On Sunday, however, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said the U.N. Security Council had run out of options on containing North Koreas nuclear program and the United States might have to turn the matter over to the Pentagon.

In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the most pressing task was for all parties to enforce the latest U.N. resolutions on North Korea fully, rather than deliberately complicating the issue.

Military threats from various parties have not promoted a resolution to the issue, he said.

This is not beneficial to a final resolution to the peninsula nuclear issue, Lu told a daily news briefing.

U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed that North Korea will never be able to threaten the United States with a nuclear-tipped ballistic missile.

Asked about Trumps warning last month that the North Korean threat to the United States would be met with fire and fury, Haley said: It was not an empty threat.

Washington has also asked China to do more to rein in its neighbor and ally, while Beijing has urged the United States to refrain from making threats against the North.

FUEL PRICES SURGE

The U.N. Security Council unanimously passed a U.S.-drafted resolution a week ago mandating tougher new sanctions against Pyongyang that included banning textile imports and capping crude and petrol supply.

North Korea on Monday called the resolution the most vicious, unethical and inhumane act of hostility to physically exterminate its people, system and government.

The increased moves of the U.S. and its vassal forces to impose sanctions and pressure... will only increase our pace toward the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force, the Norths foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement carried by its official KCNA news agency.

Gasoline and diesel prices in the North have surged since the latest nuclear test in anticipation of a possible oil ban, according to market data analyzed by Reuters on Monday.

The international community must remain united and enforce sanctions against North Korea after its repeated launch of ballistic missiles, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in an editorial in the New York Times on Sunday.

Such tests were in violation of Security Council resolutions and showed that North Korea could now target the United States or Europe, he wrote.

Abe also said diplomacy and dialogue would not work with North Korea and concerted pressure by the entire international community was essential to tackle the threats posed by the north and its leader, Kim Jong Un.

However, the official China Daily argued on Monday that sanctions should be given time to bite and that the door must be left open to talks.

"With its Friday missile launch, Pyongyang wanted to give the impression that sanctions will not work," it said in an editorial. Some people have fallen for that and immediately echoed the suggestion, pointing to the failure of past sanctions to achieve their purpose.

But that past sanctions did not work does not mean they will not. It is too early to claim failure because the latest sanctions have hardly begun to take effect. Giving the sanctions time to bite is the best way to make Pyongyang reconsider, the newspaper said.

Pyongyang has launched dozens of missiles as it accelerates a weapons program designed to provide the ability to target the United States with a powerful, nuclear-tipped missile.

It says such programs are needed as a deterrent against invasion by the United States, which has 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea. On Saturday, it said it aimed to reach an equilibrium of military force with the United States.

The United States and South Korea are technically still at war with North Korea because the 1950-53 Korean conflict ended with a truce and not a peace treaty.

Reporting by Ben Blanchard in BEIJING, Hyonhee Shin and Soyoung Kim in SEOUL; Editing by Paul Tait and Simon Cameron-Moore
* LME/ShFE arb: * North Korean concentrate exports to China stifled by sanctions

* Tight supplies of scrap batteries mean less recycled metals

(Recasts, adds comment, changes dateline from Singapore)

By Pratima Desai

LONDON, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Lead prices hit two-week highs on Monday as worries increased about tighter supplies due to China's environmental crackdown, strong demand and falling inventories in Shanghai.

The benchmark lead contract on the London Metal Exchange was up 1.6 percent at $2,393 a tonne, a gain of around 18 percent so far this year. Prices earlier touched $2,408, its highest level since Sept 4.

"Some of these environmental inspections in China are hitting lead more than other metals because of its toxic qualities," said Macquarie analyst Vivienne Lloyd. "North Korean concentrate exports to China have been stifled because of the sanctions ... There has been a reduction in availability."

CHINA ENVIRONMENT: China's Ministry of Environmental Protection (MEP) last month embarked on its fourth round of environmental inspections across eight provinces and regions, including Shandong.

SICHUAN: Chinese research firm Antaike said the start of environmental inspections in Sichuan province had caused 60 percent of local lead-zinc mines to shut down for month-long maintenance work. That could mean lower supplies of zinc and lead in August and September. DEMAND: "Demand strength is holding up well everywhere," said Farid Ahmed, lead analyst at consultants Wood Mackenzie. "On the supply side, primary smelters are very concerned about concentrate availability, compounded by scrap batteries still being tight in North America and China for lead recyclers."

SUPPLY: More than half of global lead supplies come from secondary or recycled sources, which analysts say cannot make up for losses from primary or mine supplies.

CONSUMPTION: China accountd for about 40 percent of global lead demand, estimated at around 12 million tonnes this year. Analysts expect the lead market to see small deficits this year and next.

CHINA OUTPUT: The National Bureau of Statistics said on Monday China's lead output was the lowest since Nov. 2016. NORTH KOREA: "China's decision to ban imports of several more commodities from North Korea (in August) means about 10 percent of its international lead mine supply is to be blocked," Macquarie's Lloyd said.

SHANGHAI STOCKS: At 16,568 tonnes, stocks of lead in warehouses monitored by the Shanghai Futures Exchange have fallen 80 percent since May and are at their lowest level since March 2016.

MINES: Lead supplies have also come under pressure from the closure of zinc mines. Zinc and lead are mined together.

OTHER METAL PRICES: Copper was up 0.4 percent on Monday at $6,536 a tonne, aluminium rose 0.2 percent to $2,090, zinc gained 1.4 percent to $3,074, tin added 0.8 percent to $20,700 a tonne and nickel was steady at $11,090.

<^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Top Base and Precious Metals Analysis - GFMS LME/ShFE arb: ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Editing by Greg Mahlich)
Sept 18 - Norway's central bank gave the following result of an auction for its NST 40 treasury bill on Monday. Allotment Price 99.6110 Yield (percent) 0.39 Alloted Volume (billion crowns) 6.000 Total volume of bids (billion crowns) 12.496 The Norwegian central bank said the allotment rate on the lowest accepted bids was 54 percent.

(Reporting by Oslo newsroom)

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.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Monday the United States would send over 3,000 troops to Afghanistan and that most were either on their way or had been notified of their deployment.

It is exactly over 3,000 somewhat and frankly I havent signed the last of the orders right now as we look at specific, small elements that are going, Mattis told reporters.

Reuters previously reported that the United States would send about 3,500 additional troops to Afghanistan.

Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Peter Cooney
Eric Crampton from the NZ Initiative has done a series praising New Zealand as being so much more sane than other countries. In this chapter he looks at tax and airport security:

Consider the Goods and Services Tax (GST). It is a beautiful value-added tax applied cleanly and comprehensively across the tax system. But nobody in New Zealand appreciates it. Because nobody in New Zealand appreciates it, everybody wants to carve out a tax exemption for their favourite thing: fruits, vegetables, healthy foods generally, and feminine hygiene products are recent examples. Here is what happens if you do that. Australia runs a messy GST riddled with exemptions. Somebody decided groceries should not be subject to GST, but some snack foods should be. So bread is not taxed while crackers are. In 2010, Justice Sundberg of the Federal Court in Melbourne had to decide whether an oven-baked Italian flat bread, a mini-ciabatta, counted as a bread or a cracker for tax purposes. The importer of the bread flew in Giampiero Muntoni to testify in court that the mini ciabatta was a bread, not a cracker. And Muntoni is far from a layperson in such matters. As Australias Centre for Independent Studies reported, Muntoni holds an EU certificate that entitles him to certify whether a product is a bread or a non-bread item for value added tax purposes in Italy. Think about that. Italys value-added tax needs expert certified bread deciders. A certified profession dedicated to determining whether something is bread. The only conceivable reason such a profession can or should exist is to satisfy the requirements of a broken tax system.

Winston wants basic foods to be exempt GST. Imagine how many thousands of experts we will need for the scores of court cases over what is or is not a basic food.

Americas patchwork of state-level sales taxes are even worse. Every state can apply its own unique taxes. This is not limited just to deciding the rate of taxes, but also the definitions of what is and is not taxable. Some states apply sales taxes to candy but not to other foods, and different states have different definitions of what counts as candy. Wisconsins Department of Revenue even issued a 1,437-word memo explaining which types of ice-cream cakes, or slices thereof, are taxable or untaxed. The mess is just as bad at the federal level, where free tans at video-rental stores are taxable but not tans provided as part of a health club membership. A simple enough (albeit ludicrous) 10% tax on tanning services proved anything but. The economic consequences of a system riddled with bread-deciders and jam-deciders and ice-cream deciders and tan-deciders can be staggering. Taxes become far less efficient not only because of the holes riddled throughout the system, but also the legal costs of producers trying to convince courts that their product is exempt rather than taxable.

We should value that we have such a comprehensive GST that avoids this madness.

Were New Zealand to exempt healthy foods from GST, we would well be on the slippery slope. It is one of those things that sounds really easy, but would be an utter disaster in practice. What counts as healthy? Not only does the medical evidence keep changing, but there would also be a string of boundary cases needing adjudication. If beans are healthy, what about frozen beans? Beans in a can? Beans in a can with pork fat and sauce? How much pork fat and sauce before it is taxable? What if we use Jamie Olivers recipe and fly him in to say its good?

I think TOP have proposed dividing all food into three categories of good, neutral or bad and good has less GST, neutral the same and bad more GST. Jesus Christ, imagine it.

Even worse, think through the consequences of tax exemption. Under the current beautiful broad-base, low-rate system, companies gather all their receipts for everything they purchased when making things and claim the GST on them. They then charge GST on the full value of their final product. Their net GST is on the value they added to their inputs along the way, since they netted out the GST from the inputs. Nice, clean and easy. If some goods were exempt from GST, we would have problems. Imagine you were a food manufacturer making two products. One attracts GST and one does not. It is possible to charge GST on one product and not the other, but all the point-of-sale terminals would need to be reprogrammed  feasible but expensive. But how do you start thinking about claiming the GST on your inputs if you are selling an exempt product. You will need to justify how you apportion all your plants shared costs across the different product lines. And Internal Revenue would worry you were loading costs onto the taxable line to claim GST where you shouldnt. The auditors would be kept busy.

This is a key point. If all of your sales are subject to GST at the one rate, then all of your inputs are also  very simple. Start having some stuff GST exempt and/or at a lower rate and you can no longer do that. You then need to apportion every fixed expense to every product line.

Share this: Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Reddit

WhatsApp

More

Pinterest

Print



Tumblr






By Park Hyong-ki



Korea's demographic landscape is at risk of bringing a rapid slowdown to its productivity.



As the population ages, more people will be living with chronic diseases, in addition to the decreasing size of the workforce.



Already, the country suffers from the highest elderly poverty rate in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).



The low birthrate and the rapid rise in the number of unmarried people will gradually make the meaning and value of family obsolete.



In 30 years, singles will make up more than 70 percent of the population, statistics showed.



This gloomy projection for the Korean economy goes the same for other Asian countries, except India, the Philippines and Indonesia.



Practically all Asian countries' populations are aging fast, further pressuring their social spending.



Asia will be home to more than 60 percent of the world's total population aged over 65 by 2030, according to Deloitte, a global professional services firm, Monday.



Hong Kong will be the hardest hit by an aging population, followed by Taiwan, Korea and Singapore.



"Our analysis shows that those in Asia, people aged over 65 will be the largest and fastest growing market in the world; they are set to grow in number from 365 million in 2017 to more than 520 million in 2027," Deloitte said in its online report Voice of Asia.



"There are already more over-65s in Asia than there are people in the United States. The number of over-65s in Asia will exceed one billion just after the middle of this century. In fact, by 2042, there will be more over-65s in Asia than the populations of the Eurozone and North America combined."



This may pose a risk to Asia's economy.



But Deloitte said it will provide an opportunity for Asia to develop new business models in a "range of sectors," despite demographic challenges.



New business growth is expected to take place in sectors such as health care, artificial intelligence and robotics, which can and will have to support the elderly with their diseases and spending after their retirement.



These can turn out to be a "mind-boggling" business experience if companies steer their models toward the predestined market landscape.



"These business opportunities will lie at the heart of the collision of trends such as rising life expectancies, rising relative health care costs and tightening public sector health budgets," it said.



Like the International Monetary Fund and the OECD, Deloitte suggested aging nations to "unlock the power among female workers and welcome migrant workers" to slow down the changing population.



"Migration can help ward off aging at the national level, but the critical issue is whether policy and property prices will allow this immigration to happen on a sufficient scale," it said.



As for Korea, Asia's fourth largest economy has a high level of health care technology and skills, the report said.



But it noted that the country's downside has been so far its lack of preparedness both from the private and public sectors, despite projections decades ago that Korea's demographic landscape was closely following that of Japan.
By Park Hyong-ki





The government is posed to release a set of guidelines on what type of items and incomes will be taxable for clergy members next month, according to the finance ministry Monday.



It is expected that cash and compensation received after services, including voluntary work provided by clergy members will be recognized as part of their income.



Thus, the government will impose a tax on them like income tax.



Basically, it will levy an income tax of 6 percent to 40 percent on the religious community, as it does on average salaried workers.



However, cash earned and used for pastoral and missionary services will not be taxed as long as clergy members provide documents showing such financial transactions for the activities.



This is because they have been performed as a form of social services.



Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon has been meeting with religious leaders over the past month to gain their understanding in taxation.



The guideline issued next month is part of steps for the government to press ahead with the plan to impose taxes on churches, temples and other religious organizations next year.



This comes after five decades of conflict and debate between those for taxation on clergy members and those who stood against it.



The opposing side argued it will hinder their services for the poor, and their faith and belief should not be taxed.



However, those for it said anyone who does not pay any taxes after earnings to the state is against the Korean Constitution.



The issue of taxation first came up in 1968 when then National Tax Service chief Lee Nak-sun officially said the country needed to start collecting income taxes from priests and monks.



But governments continued to hold off on this especially ahead of or during the election season, even despite being the only economy in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development to not levy taxes on the clergy.



The issue has gained attention as Korea is becoming a rapidly aging society, while facing a shortage of capital resources to finance its growing social costs.



There are about 230,000 clergy members here. Some religious organizations such as the Catholic Church and the Anglican Church of Korea have already been paying taxes.



Given the data, the government does not expect to see a major change to the system from the taxation.



"There are also a lot of small religious organizations run by one person that are unlikely to be taxed significantly," a finance ministry official said.




By Lee Kyung-min







About 700,000 dementia patients and their families will be covered under the state welfare program, the government said Monday.



This is part of President Moon Jae-in's campaign pledge to expand the state's role in helping senior citizens, who contributed to the development of the country, lead a dignified life.



Health and Welfare Minister Park Neung-hoo unveiled this measure three days ahead of World Alzheimer's Day which falls Thursday.



Many families go bankrupt due to the heavy medical costs of treating the disease, which is expected to become more prevalent in Korea because of a rapidly aging society, the minister said.



"The number of dementia patients is expected to reach 1.27 million by 2030, which will further burden their adult children. The government is planning to shoulder the increasing cost of treating the disease," Park said at COEX in southern Seoul.



Under the program, the government will increase the number of dementia support centers within community health centers to 252 from the current 47 by the end of the year.



The new support centers will offer consultation services on the disease and referrals to dementia care facilities. It will also offer medical checkups and provide temporary shelter to the patients.



Patient information and consultation history will be preserved on a government-managed online program to help track the development of the illness.



Patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia will undergo treatment at state-run hospitals that house a dementia care unit.



This refers to the symptoms of dementia including agitation and aggressive behavior. The government will increase the number of such hospitals to 79 equipped with up to 3,700 beds from the current 34 with 1,898 beds.



The government will revise the current criteria to allow patients with only mild symptoms to be also allowed treatment at dementia care facilities. So far, patients with no immobility issues were denied the service.



Free medical checkups for dementia patients over 66 will be available every two years, more frequently from the current one available every four years.



A committee, comprised of officials at the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Science and ICT, will support studies on early detection, diagnosis, prevention and the development of medication. The health ministry will set up a new unit tasked with affairs involving dementia.



Under the revised health care dubbed "Moon Jae-in care," unveiled last month, starting next month patients with severe dementia will pay only up to 10 percent of the total cost of treatment, significantly down from the current 69.8 percent.



The same rate is already applied to treatment costs for four major age-related diseases including cancer, cardiac disorders, cerebrovascular problems and rare diseases.



According to the report from the National Assembly Budget Office, per capita medical cost for dementia patients is 20 million won ($17,750) a year.



Given the government's pledge to cover up to 90 percent of the cost, about 12.6 trillion won is needed, accounting for 0.9 percent of the total gross domestic product (GDP), the office said.



As the number of dementia patients will increase nearly four-fold surpassing 2.7 million by 2050, the per capita cost will reach 39 million won, requiring government spending of 48.5 trillion won.








By Kim Rahn

The U.S. military dispatched four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B strategic bombers to the Korean Peninsula Monday in a warning to North Korea over its recent provocations, according to a government source.

The strategic weapons conducted a mock bombing exercise together with four South Korean F-15k fighters and returned to their bases in Japan and Guam, the source said.

The joint exercise took place three days after Pyongyang launched another intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) over Japan. The U.S. strategic aircraft were dispatched here earlier this month, Sept. 3, in response to the North's sixth nuclear test.

It was also the second time F-35B fighters and B-1B bombers exercised together here.

The F-35B is a stealth fighter that can attack a target with precision in the air, on the ground or at sea.

The B-1B, dubbed the "swan of death," is one of the U.S. military's three major bombers along with the B-52 Stratofortress and the B-2 Spirit. It is the fastest among the three and has a larger payload than the other two. It can fly from Guam to South Korea in two hours.
President to call for stronger international pressure on Pyongyang

By Kim Rahn

President Moon Jae-in left for New York, Monday, to hold crucial talks with foreign leaders on how to address North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats.

During his five-day visit, he will deliver a keynote speech at the United Nations General Assembly and hold summits with other leaders. Moon will ask for their support for his North Korea policy and for the latest U.N. Security Council (UNSC) resolution imposing tougher sanctions on Pyongyang.

This will be the first time for Moon to participate in a U.N. event, and his second visit to the U.S. following his previous visit for a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., in June.

Since his last visit, the North Korean provocations have become more intense and frequent  the North has launched two intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) and two intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) and conducted its sixth nuclear test.

In the keynote speech he will make Thursday, he is expected to urge the international community to make concerted efforts for pressure on Pyongyang to push the Kim Jong-un regime forward for negotiations.

He will also express his gratitude toward the UNSC's latest adoption of a resolution that targeted oil headed to the North for the first time.

Following the speech, Moon will have a meeting with Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe over lunch, the second such trilateral talks following the first in July on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Germany.
Firms tied to US military, intelligence hiring people in Seoul



By Yi Whan-woo

At least two private American companies working for the U.S. military and intelligence have begun recruiting staff in South Korea, fueling speculation that Washington is possibly preparing for military options against North Korea.

Booz Allen Hamilton, a Virginia-headquartered consulting firm, offered five job opportunities in Seoul Sept. 15.

The five jobs are human intelligence (HUMINT) and counterintelligence (CI) reports requirements officer, counter-improvised explosive devices and counter-unmanned aircraft system training analyst, source operations manager, signal intelligence analyst, and HUMINT and CI target analyst.

Also headquartered in Virginia, Northrop Grumman, a defense company, also made several job postings for the U.S. Forces Korea between Sept. 6, three days after North Korea's sixth nuclear test, and Sept. 15.

The jobs include technical professionals and systems administrator.

In particular, the recruitment of technical professionals is being made "in support of a contingent Department of Defense (DoD) contract solicitation," according to Northrop Grumman.

The two companies did not give detailed descriptions for these jobs.












By Jeffrey I. Kim





On Sept. 3, North Korea detonated its sixth and most powerful nuclear bomb on Sunday and it astonished the whole world. The U. S. has warned that time was running out to counteract. On Sept. 8, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) member countries unanimously voted for increased sanctions on North Korea. This means that the representatives from China, Russia, and the U.S. had agreed on the specific items of punishment against North Korea. The markets interpreted this resolution as a signal that the probability of war has dropped significantly. Consequently the stock market and currency market have recovered.

On Sept. 15, North Korea fired an IRBM nuclear missile over Hokkaido, Japan's territory, to a place in the Pacific Ocean. Surprisingly, however, the markets reacted in the opposite direction. Stock prices went up by 0.35% and the Korean currency became stronger against the U.S. dollar by 0.35%. The market participants have learned a lesson of how to respond.

In retrospect, the three players, China, Russia, and the U.S. have conducted repeated games with their common objective of preventing a nuclear war on the Korean peninsula. Every time North Korea has tested a nuclear weapon, each player ingeniously plays out in such a way that they come up with the optimum solution. Namely preventing a war but punishing North Korea appropriately while leaving some options to use in the next round of game.

While these three power countries are playing the war games, North Korea is making an enormous loss in economic and diplomatic terms. Some countries in South America have ordered the North Korean diplomats to leave their country. If North Korea continues testing nuclear weapons, more countries will cut off their diplomatic relations. Not to mention the UNSC's further sanctions.

The world is watching the situation on the Korean peninsula with much concern. Surprisingly, however, this is not true for foreign investors in South Korea because they have a strong confidence in the working of the nation's free markets.

They do not worry much about a war. Rather they worry about the unreasonable business regulations. They acknowledge the efforts of the government of South Korea to host the foreign firms and to eliminate regulations unnecessarily governing their business. Also they greatly rely on the role of the Foreign Investment Ombudsman in resolving their grievances.

Politicians and the government enact new laws mainly for protection of the natural environment and of the safety of workers and consumers. In the beginning, these regulations are well justified. Later on, however, the underlying conditions change in such a way that they need to be dropped. Otherwise the outdated laws and enforcement decrees only impair their business activities.

To fight the reckless creation of new laws restricting the business of foreign companies, the government has established the online regulatory information service system. Foreign investors can access the online portal site and submit their opinions against the new laws proposed by the National Assembly and the government. As a consequence, bad regulations proposed tend to be dropped. Still, however, they feel stressed about the existence of numerous outdated and unnecessary regulations at the level of the local government's enforcement decrees and ordinances.

South Korea has enjoyed benefits from foreign direct investment (FDI). For the past three decades, attraction of foreign firms with advanced technology has greatly enhanced the nation's industrialization and tremendously expanded its volume of trade. Along with this trend, Korea is often cited as an exemplary country providing the most efficient and effective after-care services for foreign firms. Nevertheless, a good number of foreign companies suffer from unreasonable regulations.

These days many ordinary people may consider North Korea's intensified provocations against South Korea and the entire world may have an enormously detrimental impact on the inflow of foreign firms. The North Korea factor has been adversely affecting South Korea's economy for more than four decades in the past and it has been treated as a fixed parameter in the determination of FDI inflows. So the markets in South Korea will rationally function in the future even if North Korea continues nuclear provocations. Consequently the nation will continually receive FDIs flowing from abroad as it keeps eliminating outdated laws.



Dr. Jeffrey I. Kim (ickim@skku.ac.kr) 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.
Peter Hayward

By Lee Hyo-sik

Samsung Heavy Industries has recruited an occupational safety engineer from Australia to beef up its tarnished image following a series of safety-related lapses in recent months.

Korea's third-largest shipbuilder said Monday it hired Peter Hayward as an executive director in charge of overseeing the firm's safety-related matters. The company had been looking for an engineer with extensive knowhow and expertise in the field since July for its newly established safety management division.

Hayward, 57, began his career at ExxonMobil in 1982 as a health and safety engineer whose primary task was to inspect facilities, machinery and safety equipment to identify and correct potential hazards.

The Australian has also worked with other big oil companies and engineering firms over the past 35 years, accumulating extensive knowhow in the areas of health, safety and environment.

While serving as a safety manager at global engineering firm WorleyParsons for 10 years, he oversaw a number of plant construction projects in Australia, Thailand, China and other countries.

"We have high expectations for Hayward who will greatly help improve our occupational safety," a company official said. "We will continue to do our best to make our shipyards accident-free and bolster workers' wellbeing."

On May 1, five people were killed and 20 others injured at Samsung Heavy's main shipyard on Geoje Island, South Gyeongsang Province, after part of a crane fell on employees working on a ship. Two cranes, 60 meters long and weighing 32 tons, collided causing a structure to fall from one of them.

The company suspended operations for 15 days.

Then, on May 17, two days after resuming operations, a fire broke out at the same shipyard. The blaze claimed no lives but damaged the plant's cooling system, according to firefighters dispatched to the scene.

The incidents were said to have tarnished the shipbuilder's image and made it more difficult for the firm to secure new contracts from abroad.

From 2014 to 2015, the company posted huge losses after losing billions of dollars from delayed offshore plant projects and canceled ship orders, amid the global industry slump. To cope with falling orders, the shipbuilder has been downsizing its workforce and suspending operations at several docks.
PRESS RELEASE

Central America Begins To Enter the Belt and Road; Waiting for U.S. to Join, Too

Sept. 17, 2017 (EIRNS)Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi today presided over the ceremony opening the first-ever Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in Panama.

"A new era begins in which we should be closer than ever on behalf of our peoples well-being. Geographic distance will not be an obstacle to our being allies,"

President Varela said there.

Up until a few months ago, Panama, like most Central American nations, had diplomatic relations with Taiwan, and not with the People's Republic of China.

President Varela met with Wang on Sept. 16, and emphasized Panamas importance as a logistical, port and air platform, inviting China to make use of it as Chinas bridge and commercial arm into all of Ibero-America.

Three days earlier, Panamas first Ambassador to China, Francisco Carlo Escobar, had presented his credentials in Beijing, where he emphasized in an interview published yesterday by Xinhua, that Panama is very interested in the Belt and Road Initiative, and in bringing the BRI to all Ibero-America. He told Xinhua that

"Panama can be [a strategic place] ... for logistical distribution and perhaps to present certain infrastructure projects which could help the Belt and Road Initiative in the region."

Wang confirmed to President Varela that President Xi Jinping will receive him before the end of 2017 in Beijing, where he expects they will sign a number of the more than 20 agreements now being negotiated between the two nations. The Panamanian Presidencys wire on the Varela-Wang meeting reports that Varela will also officially open Panamas Embassy in Beijing and Consulate in Shanghai during that trip, as well as visit Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing, to promote business and tourism.

An official from the Economics Unit of the Panama Canal Authority, Eddie Tapiero, zeroed in on the real strategic potential of these relations, when he said in a recent speech on "Panamas New Relations with China and the Possible Implications for the Canal: OBOR [One Belt One Road]," that beyond increasing trade through its new relations with China, Panama is also joining in the Chinese initiative "which will change the world in the coming years," the Belt and Road Initiative which, he said, the United States must also join.

Panamas La Estrella quoted Tapiero today: The Belt and Road is

"a new business model of globalization in the world, and Panama should not be alien to it. The U.S. as the main partner of all countries in Latin America needs to be part of the initiative. With all the players working towards the same goal, the countries will achieve a balance in their strength and stability in the long term."

The Belt and Road was also emphasized in Wangs stop in Costa Rica, the only other Central American country which has relations with the P.R.C., established 10 years ago. Before Wangs visit, on Sept. 1 President Luis Guillermo Solis had spoken with enthusiasm of the potential of Chinese-Costa Rican relations, but argued that before participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, bilateral relations should first be expanded. However, after Wangs visit on Sept. 15, where he met with both the President and Costa Rican Foreign Minister Manuel A. Gonzalez Sanz, Gonzalez said Costa Rica is ready to actively take part in building Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, which will promote Costa Ricas own development. He added that Costa Rica is willing to explore trilateral cooperation with China and Panama.

Teddy Roosevelt has to be rolling over in his grave. And Lyndon LaRouches friend Gen. Manuel Noriega is surely smiling happily.
Businessman Tigipko submits papers to buy 99.9% of shares in VS Bank from Sberbank of Russia

Ukrainian businessman and owner of TAScombank and Universal Bank Sergiy Tigipko intends to buy 99.9% of shares in public joint-stock company VS Bank (Lviv) from Sberbank of Russia, the press service of TAScombank told Interfax-Ukraine on Monday.

"The documents have been submitted to the Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine. We are waiting for the permit," the press service said.

As reported, the press service of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) reported earlier that a resident filed documents to acquire 99.9% of shares in VS Bank from Sberbank.

"The documents received for approval of a large stake in VS Bank have been registered and being processed," the press service said.

The NBU said that according to Article 34 of the law on banks and banking operations the central bank can consider the relevant document during three months from the moment of receiving the full package of documents. The NBU would check if business reputation of investors meets the requirements outlined in the NBU legal acts, the regulator will check the financial health of the investors and the origin of the funds.

VS Bank, which was founded in 1991, was known as Volksbank until December 16, 2013 and Elektron Bank even earlier. Russia's Sberbank is VS Bank's principal beneficiary with 99.923%.

The bank ranked 28th among 88 banks operating in the country as of July 1, 2017 in terms of assets (UAH 3.621 billion), according to the NBU.
Merriam-Webster has added more than 250 words to its dictionary in the last month, including alt-right and sriracha. Alt-right is defined by Merriam-Webster as a right-wing, primarily online political movement or grouping based in the U.S. whose members reject mainstream conservative politics and espouse extremist beliefs and policies typically centered on ideas of white nationalism. Sriracha, of course, is a delicious hot sauce.

Many of the new entries come from the worlds of food, technology and politics.

Alt-right, which dates from 2009, has drawn criticism from those who believe it is a euphemism for white nationalist ideologies. The Associated Press instructs journalists to avoid the term, because it is meant as a euphemism to disguise racist aims.

Advertisement

The dictionary also added a new, politically inspired definition to the word dog whistle: an expression or statement that has a secondary meaning intended to be understood only by a particular group of people.

The technology-related words added by Merriam-Webster include ransomware, defined as malware that requires the victim to pay a ransom to access encrypted files, and Internet of Things, which is the networking capability that allows information to be sent to and received from objects and devices (such as fixtures and kitchen appliances) using the Internet.

The update brings some good news to foodies hungry for culinary-related words. Fans of spicy condiments can rest easy knowing that sriracha, or a pungent sauce that is made from hot peppers pureed with usually garlic, sugar, salt and vinegar, has been enshrined in the dictionary.

Also added were bibimbap, the Korean dish, and froyo, a term for frozen yogurt that dates back to 1976.

Merriam-Webster Associate Editor Emily Brewster said in a news release that lexicographers are responsible for following the development of language over the years.

These new words have been added to the dictionary because they have established themselves in the English language, and are part of the current, active vocabulary of America, Brewster said.

The addition of the new words comes on the 308th birthday of Samuel Johnson, author of the 1755 Dictionary of the English Language, considered one of the most important dictionaries in history. Johnson was honored on Monday with a Google Doodle, a special animated feature that appears on the search engines homepage. The tribute to Johnson features his famous definition of lexicographer: a harmless drudge that busies himself in tracing the original, and detailing the signification of words.
After the U.S. government banned federal agencies from using Kaspersky Lab software last week, worries rippled through the consumer market for antivirus software. Best Buy and Office Depot said they will no longer sell software made by the Russian company, although one security researcher said most consumers dont need to be alarmed.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security cited concerns about possible ties between unnamed Kaspersky officials and the Kremlin and Russian intelligence services. The department also said Russian law might compel Kaspersky to assist the government in espionage.

Kaspersky has denied any unethical ties with Russia or any government. It said it will continue to get its product to customers through its website and other prominent retailers. Kaspersky software is used by consumers in both free and paid versions, available online and in stores.

Advertisement

To uninstall or not to uninstall?

Should other users of Kaspersky software follow the U.S. governments lead? Some companies sought to tread carefully, addressing questions from customers who asked about it without alarming those that didnt.

Weve had few customers raise concerns, but for those that have, weve offered advice on how to remove Kaspersky from their computers, said Craig VerColen, spokesman for Boston-based software provider LogMeIn, which offers Kaspersky as a complementary perk to small businesses that buy its products.

Nicholas Weaver, a computer security researcher at UC Berkeley, called the U.S. government decision prudent  he had argued for such a step in July. But he added by email that for most everybody else, the software is fine.

The biggest risk to U.S. government computers is if Kaspersky, based in Moscow, is subject to government-mandated malicious update, Weaver wrote this summer.

Kaspersky products accounted for about 5.5% of anti-malware software products worldwide, according to research firm Statista.

Minimizing risk

Other experts, however, suggested that consumers should uninstall Kaspersky software to avoid any potential risks. Michael Sulmeyer, director of a cybersecurity program at Harvard, noted that antivirus software has deep access to the users computer and network.

Voluntarily introducing this kind of Russian software in a geopolitical landscape where the U.S.-Russia relationship is not good at all, I think, would be assuming too much risk, he said. There are plenty of alternatives out there.

The government ban should alarm any company that has been relying on Kasperskys software to protect its business, said Nate Fick, chief executive of computer security specialist Endgame.

I dont think this is political posturing here, but a sign that there is some real risk, Fick said. As a result, he expects most companies to find an alternative to Kaspersky. It is all about risk mitigation in cybersecurity, and this is an easy risk mitigation to make, he said.

Best Buy was the first big retailer this month to announce it would stop selling the software. Office Depot followed Thursday. Amazon and Staples are still offering it.

A Russian firm with ties to Russia?

Various U.S. law enforcement and intelligence agencies and several congressional committees are investigating Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.

Kaspersky said it is not subject to the Russian laws cited in the directive and said information the company receives is protected in accordance with legal requirements and stringent industry standards, including encryption.

Company spokesman Anton Shingarov said that the U.S. ban was part of a geopolitical game and that there is no proof provided of any improper ties to the Russian government.

Russia also came to the companys defense, with a spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin criticizing the ban.

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the U.S. move cast a shadow over the image of our American colleagues as reliable partners and was designed to cripple Kasperskys competitive advantage on the international market.
It was 1979 and Emigdio Higgy Vasquez was 11. His father, Emigdio Vasquez, often called the godfather of Chicano art in Orange County, drove him to a mural he was painting in the working-class, largely Mexican American Cypress Street neighborhood close to where they lived; many residents worked at the fruit packing house down the street. Vasquezs mural, on the side of an apartment building garage, depicted the faces of Chicanos: Cesar Chavez, citrus farmers, rail workers, miners.

The elder Vasquez mixed the goopy paint and put a brush in his sons palm.

That was the first time he felt I could do it. I was a little bit nervous, Higgy says. He told me not to paint outside the lines. I painted the face of a pachuco, the hipster of the time.

More than four decades later in 2013, Higgy  by then married, living in Santa Ana and an artist in his own right  returned to his childhood neighborhood to restore his fathers work. The murals bright orange, red and royal blue had faded from the sun, and the underlying concrete wall was crumbling. The elder Vasquez was suffering from dementia and would die within a few months. But not before Higgy drove him, one last time, to the mural.

Higgy put a paintbrush in his fathers palm and gave him directions: Touch up the pachuco that Higgy had painted as child.

He hadnt painted for two, maybe three years, Higgy says. But I put a brush in his hand and he just did it like nothing. He didnt talk a lot, but he sat there for almost three hours painting like time had never gone by."

Emigdio Vasquezs El Proletariado de Aztlan (The Proletariat of Aztlan), fully restored. Its part of a mural restoration project by Chapman University. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Now fully restored, El Proletariado de Aztlan (The Proletariat of Aztlan) anchors a Chapman University exhibition about Vasquezs work. The show, My Barrio: Emigdio Vasquez and Chicana/o Identity in Orange County, is the universitys offering for the Gettys Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA, a coordinated exploration of Latino and Latin American art at dozens of institutions across Southern California. My Barrio also includes a gallery exhibition of Vasquezs oil paintings on view with contemporary works by eight other L.A. artists; photographs, articles and other artifacts in the student union giving social and historical context to Vasquezs work; and a new iPhone app for self-guided tours, created by Chapman students, mapping all 30 of Vasquezs Orange County murals.

He found his voice by painting people, says Higgy, now 49. He really liked that, the human experience. And his medium was the Hispanic community.

Emigdio Vasuez photographed in 1991 in front of his mural at the Santa Ana Transit Terminal. He originally painted it at the Bowers Museum. (Los Angeles Times)

As part of the exhibition, Higgy will create a new mural thats both an assertion of his own style and a tribute to his fathers work. Hell work on Visions of Chapman: Education, Diversity and Community, about Chapman University history, over six months on a wall that faces the entrance to the universitys Guggenheim Gallery. Visitors can stop by and watch him paint.

Higgys mural, like his fathers work, is a pastiche of scenes and figures over different time periods, he says, showing sketches of the work at the mural site. When its completed, the triptych will depict university namesake Charles C. Chapman along with Nobel laureate and university presidential fellow Elie Wiesel, students and notable alumnae. One section pictures a Cypress Street festival that Higgy based on his old family photographs. His mother, little sister and uncle appear in it.

I wanted to paint a new mural, add my work to the neighborhood, Higgy says. I always see this as my neighborhood too, because I played here as a kid, had friends here.

The mural will be painted on cloth-like material that will be affixed to the wall, so that its more durable and can be portable. Higgy was able to create the mural with $30,000 from a university donor. The 2013 restoration was made possible with $30,000 funded by the university.

It was such an emotional time, Higgy says of the roughly five-month restoration process, in which his brother and one sister painted with him one day, side by side, while sharing funny stories about their father.

The mural still hangs on the garage wall of the apartment complex.

Co-curator Natalie Lawler, left, and student art collection assistant Manon Wogan prepare the universitys gallery with oil paintings by the late artist Emigdio Vasquez. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

The Guggenheim Gallery portion of the Chapman show will display works including oil paintings, sculpture, photography, neon signs and video installation. Corrugated cardboard sculptures of buildings by Ana Serrano, neon signs of the words Rise and United States of America by Patrick Martinez, and a womans portrait on a wood panel by Shizu Saldamando all address themes in the elder Vasquezs work, such as community, family and identity.

Its the idea of the barrio and how these people define themselves and what makes a community, says co-curator and project director Natalie Lawler, who adds that the guiding quote for the whole project came from Vasquez himself. He said that when he was in high school, the art he was taught had nothing to do with his life here, so he decided to create his own work that was personal and relevant to his life in the barrio.

The student union exhibition is dedicated to the history of Chicanos in Orange County, with information about school segregation in the area. It also includes a 10-foot-long annotated reprint of Vasquezs El Proletariado de Aztlan, with detailed information about images and people in the work.

The idea of Chicano was really popular during the 70s, Higgy says. When he was painting that, there was a movement to sort of reclaim our history and looking at it in a different way.

Meanwhile, Higgy hopes to complete his own mural by spring.

I have no illusions about trying to re-create what my dad did with his career. It was his own special thing, Higgy says. My mural is different; it speaks more to the university and its accomplishments and the careers of its graduates.

And yet, the two works are artistically and thematically connected.

Theyre similar in the technique and style of social realism, Higgy adds. And, in the end, were both definitely memorializing the Cypress Street neighborhood.

         

My Barrio: Emigdio Vasquez and Chicana/o Identity in Orange County

Where: El Proletariado de Aztlan at 442 Cypress St., Orange; Vasquez oil paintings at Guggenheim Gallery at Chapman University, Orange; photos and other artifacts in the student union at Chapman.

When: Sept. 13-Jan. 5

Price: Free

Info: www.chapman.edu/pst

7-year-old Emigdio Higgy Vasquez with his father, the late artist Emigdio Vasquez, in 1975 at Chapman Universitys Waltmar Theatre. Higgy Vasquez is currently in the process of painting a new mural on one of the buildings exterior walls. (Courtesy, the Emigdio Vasquez family)

deborah.vankin@latimes.com

Follow me on Twitter: @debvankin
In a posh Beverly Hills hotel suite overflowing with gift baskets, Michael, the central character of Paul Rudnicks tentative new comedy, Big Night, is anxiously primping for what may be the most important evening of his life.

A dedicated gay actor whose career has balanced Shakespeare in the provinces with Law & Order guest spots, Michael (played with amiable earnestness by Brian Hutchison) is up for an Oscar for supporting actor. Heading off to the ceremony that will decide his Hollywood future, he wonders what expression he should feign if he loses to Matt Damon. But hes informed by his young and excitable new agent, Cary (Max Jenkins), that he has a good shot at winning. Somehow this only makes him more nervous.

The play, which opened Saturday at the Kirk Douglas Theatre under the direction of Walter Bobbie, recalls in its bantering setup one of the playlets in Neil Simons California Suite, the one that looks in on a visiting couple from London as they prepare for the wifes own big night and then cope with the bitter marital aftermath after returning from the Academy Awards empty-handed.

Advertisement

But Rudnick, the author of the plays I Hate Hamlet, Jeffrey and The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told, the screenplay In & Out and countless New Yorker humor columns, populates his five-star suite more densely. This ostentatious room with an entrancing L.A. view becomes an LGBTQ microcosm as visitors arrive full of congratulations, special requests and dizzying surprises.

The first to show up is Michaels transgender nephew, Eddie (Tom Phelan), whos majoring in queer studies at UCLA with a thesis concentration in non-binary gender expression. He wants Michael to use his platform to make a statement about Hollywoods lack of diversity and historic abuse of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, ally and pansexual people.

Cary, whos out and proud himself, respects Eddies alphabet of political commitments but advises Michael not to shoot himself in the foot just as his career is about to take off. Hes working on a lucrative multi-movie deal. The producers of Star Wars want to cast Michael, who, turns out, has a thing for light sabers. This is no time for criticizing the academy.

By this point, Michaels mother, Esther (Wendie Malick), has shown up dressed to the nines with breaking news of her own. I dont want to give too much away, but Esther is traveling with a new friend, Eleanor (Kecia Lewis), an African American Pulitzer Prize-winning writer who brings some intersectionality to the political debate Michael would rather not be having.

Eleanor inquires what pronouns Eddie prefers. (Im fine with he, they, hir, zir, or zee, he answers.) Eddie asks Eleanor whether she prefers black, African American or person of color. (Dealers choice is her freewheeling reply). Rudnick could probably have spun an entire play lovingly satirizing this kind of politically correct social etiquette, but he recognizes that homophobia and hate crimes are more pressing concerns.

Big Night takes a serious turn when Michael discovers the reason his lover, Austin (Luke Macfarlane), is unaccountably late. The situation Rudnick constructs is all too plausible in an age when mass violence and displays of intolerance are regularly in the news, but the change in dramatic register isnt smoothly pulled off.

The characters react to information that shocks and upsets but doesnt have the power to upend them. Scenarios remain theatrical hypotheticals. The mood grows somber, but the comedy doesnt allow the consequences of what occurs to sink in. Unreality reigns.

Big Night plays like a speculative humor essay on urgent themes. The interplay of perspectives is lively, but the characterizations are types led more by laugh lines than by psychology. The playwriting makes it hard to believe in the world inside this hotel suite, which (as designed by John Lee Beatty) seems more Las Vegas than Beverly Hills.

Comedy, as practiced by Moliere, Oscar Wilde and George Bernard Shaw, provides a forum for the bandying of difficult and dangerous ideas. Realism neednt be the priority, but Bobbies production plays against genre, keeping the zaniness on an unnecessarily low flame.

Big Night doesnt accelerate like a farce. There are curious lulls in which the actors appear stranded, waiting for rescue from Rudnicks inexhaustible wit after something more dramatically meaningful fails to show up.

On the plus side, theres Malick in a gorgeous evening dress (the magic of costume designer William Ivey Long) looking impossibly young and doing her best to turn the stereotype of the Jewish mother into something contemporary and original. Yes, she foists food at her loved ones in moments of crisis. And no, she never stops worrying about careers, grades, designer discounts and awards. But she plays Esther first and foremost as a woman with her own desires, needs and convictions.

If the play forces upon the character sentimental speeches that say nothing, the fault lies with the playwright, who doesnt know how to resolve a situation that even his own characters have lost faith in.

Rudnick ought to write to his own strengths. More camp from Jenkins Cary wouldnt be amiss.

Cary, who grew up in Beverly Hills wanting to be an agent, recalls his bar mitzvah at the Hotel Bel-Air with calla lilies, a vegan buffet and twin Soviet gymnasts from Cirque du Soleil. The theme? The films of Jennifer Aniston, he answers, defensively clarifying in the next beat, The early films!

Big Night may be earnest in patches, not entirely convincing and a bit thin, but Rudnick hasnt lost his talent to amuse. The play is funny even when it stumbles and stalls.

         

Big Night

Where: Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City

When: 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays; ends Oct 8 (call for exceptions)

Tickets: $25 to $70 (subject to change)

Info: (213) 628-2772 or www.centertheatregroup.org

Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes (no intermission).

mark.swed@latimes.com

MORE THEATER NEWS AND REVIEWS:

Review: A Funnt Thing Happened at the Geffen Playhouse

Review: Marion Bridge at Son of Semele

The 99-Seat Beat: Promising shows in the small-theater scene

Why live theater needs movie-style trailers

Artistic director departing from South Coast Rep
The graphic line in any great drawing by Martin Ramirez is so sure, so clear, so confidently composed as to make the elusive uncertainty of its subject matter profoundly strange. The friction between knowingness and not knowing ignites sparks.

In the marvelous Ramirez survey exhibition that inaugurates the Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, on a gritty downtown street across from the Greyhound bus station, trains enter tunnels to nowhere, disappearing into black holes. Fancy riders mounted on horseback pose within a theatrical proscenium, where human and animal both seem to grin.

Another horseback rider blows into a gigantic trumpet, its hugely swollen bell bigger than his prancing mount. Nearby, a crowned woman raises her hands in praise and benediction.

Just about everywhere, undulating linear patterns fan out, tying everything together. The patterns carry your eye across sheets of storm-tossed paper, made tactile by crumpling, flattening, layering and gluing. The rolling, curvilinear patterns are like ripples from a pebble dropped into a pond, or perhaps graphic signs for a sonic echo.

The artists presentation of conceptual mysteries through rigorous formal clarity is seductive. Its as if Ramirez is determined to share something that he knows we may never grasp, no matter how hard we try. But we do want to try, caught up in the visual rhythms of drawing  a medium that is arts most direct transcription of evolving thought.

Martin Ramirez, Horse and Rider With Frieze, no date; gouache, colored pencil, graphite. (ICA LA) (Tom VanEynde /)

Martin Ramirez, Untitled (Vehicle and Tunnel), no date; gouache, colored pencile, graphite on paper. (ICA LA)

The shows title, Martin Ramirez: His Life in Pictures, Another Interpretation, frankly declares that unraveling the celebrated self-taught artists work is not easy. Efforts have been underway since not long after his death in 1963; now, here comes another interpretation.

Elsa Longhauser, director of the ICA LA and curator for the show, organized an earlier one in Philadelphia in 1985, and the American Folk Art Museum in New York did a full retrospective in 2007. (With about 100 works, it was twice the size of the current survey.) This is the first monographic Ramirez exhibition to be seen in Southern California. A solid introduction, it is sure to rate among the most significant shows in the sprawling, Getty-subsidized Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA.

Ramirez was born in 1895 near Tepatitlan, Mexico, a small town in Jalisco about 45 miles east of Guadalajara. He left for the United States in 1925 in search of work, leaving behind a pregnant wife and three small children. He found mining jobs and worked as a railroad laborer in Northern California, but the devastating 1929 economic collapse sent him into a tailspin.

He never recovered. Jobless, homeless and picked up for vagrancy, Ramirez landed first in Stockton State Hospital, then DeWitt State Hospital near Sacramento.

During the Great Depression and after World War II, the cruel practice of using state hospitals as holding cells for vagrant immigrants was common in California. Despite attempts to escape, he was institutionalized for more than 30 years on flimsy diagnoses of mental incapacity, including schizophrenia.

Although he frequently added small drawings to letters he sent home, it may be that art therapy programs, a new twist in institutional treatment of psychological disorders, really got him going as an artist. (Victor M. Espinosas 2015 book, Martin Ramirez: Framing His Life and Art, is the most thorough accounting of his sketchy biography.) Whatever the case, almost all the more than 440 known drawings probably date from the 1950s to his death in 1963.

Martin Ramirez, Untitled (Horse and Rider With Large Bugle), circa 1960-63; gouache, colored pencil, graphite on pieced paper. (ICA LA)

The shows 51 examples are grouped thematically or stylistically. Among them is a monumental, 18-foot scroll, newly conserved, from the collection of noted Chicago Imagist artists Jim Nutt and Gladys Nilsson. (With 31 works, they are the shows largest lender.) This is the first time the scroll has been shown. While not as unified or boldly drawn as other works, the scroll, pieced together from paper bags, notebook pages, newspapers and more, contains a virtual inventory of Ramirezs motifs: wild animals, tunnels, trains, horses, public buildings, musicians, etc.

Ramirez, by all accounts deeply religious, only occasionally made his faith the obvious subject of these drawings. Clear examples are the so-called Madonnas, such as two of towering crowned women. One stands astride a serpent and a rosary; another is festooned with the elaborately decorated word Reina  Mary, Queen of Heaven.

In a third religious drawing, a figure of Christ hauls his shouldered cross, trudging before an impressive church facade. Perhaps the scene is a memory of an Easter procession witnessed during the artists Jalisco youth. This possible fusion of personal memory with orthodox Catholic iconography makes me wonder whether the many horse-and-rider drawings, stand-outs in the show, are more than simple recollections of his own life on a rural farm, which is how they are usually discussed.

Might they also meld the sacred with the secular?

Traditional designs from pottery and textiles are potential sources for his arts images. The exhibition catalog also highlights pop culture cowboy pictures that may have caught Ramirezs eye, perhaps in magazines, advertisements and commercial packaging.

ICA LA: New museum opens in downtown Los Angeles 

But the shows most beautiful moment is a wall of eight caballero drawings  he made around 80  all slightly different in composition yet, notably, not one showing the horse and rider in a natural landscape. Instead, theyre framed within patterned architectonic settings, as if posed on a stage or an altar platform. Could this unusual format partly be a recollection of devotional church icons of St. James, patron saint of Spain and laborers like himself?

The imposing figure of St. James  Santiago  on horseback was an influential propaganda tool in the history of Latin American conquest. Spains so-called Moor killer became a power emblem for Indian subjugation in New Spain, prominent in paintings and sculptures.

Ramirez was 30 when he left Jalisco, just as tensions were building there between the established authority of the Catholic Church, to which he was bound, and the new secular power of the post-revolutionary Mexican state. Within a year, skirmishes erupted into a violent uprising and the protracted, often bloody conflict called the Cristero War.

Martin Ramirez, Untitled (Alamentosa), circa 1953; pencil and watercolor on paper. (ICA LA) (Jonathan Muzikar /)

Martin Ramirez, Untitled (Caballero and Pattern), 1952; graphite, tempera and crayon on pieced paper. (ICA LA)

Does Ramirezs horse and rider partly reflect Santiago? Is it a recollection of magazine ads for movie westerns or a farm produce label? A homemade childhood toy? A memory of personal experience in Tepatitlan?

Theres no way to know of course  and it could be all, none or more likely a combination of these. What matters is Ramirezs inventiveness, which can take your breath away.

In a beautiful vertical drawing of a caballero astride a proud blue steed and wearing a bright red shirt and yellow pants, he waves his hat high over his head. Above, a semicircle of squashed paper medicine-cups, plentiful at the hospital, creates a subtle halo of stars. And below, a firmly drawn cascade of nested arcs visually lifts the rider up to the top of the sheet.

The curvilinear pattern is reminiscent of the ribbed shape of a scallop or cockle shell  the emblem of Santiago, which may very well be coincidental. Yet, pattern is repetition, and repetition is ritual. A deep sense of fierce devotion permeates Ramirezs work, whatever the subject might be.

         

Martin Ramirez: His Life in Pictures, Another Interpretation

Where: ICA LA, 1717 E. 7th St., L.A.

When: Through Dec. 31; closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Info: (310) 284-8100, www.theicala.org

Martin Ramirez exhibition on CBS Sunday Morning, 2007

christopher.knight@latimes.com

Twitter: @KnightLAT

MORE ART NEWS AND REVIEWS:

Power and prominence of Latino art: 'Anna Maria Maiolino' and 'Carlos Almaraz'

The godfather of Chicano art  and the son who's keeping his memory alive

How artist Camilo Ontiveros acquired the belongings of a DACA deportee

Did you spot the egg-shaped museum cruising L.A.? Next stop: LACMA
Is this the Emmys or the Oscars? See which Emmy nominees already have Academy Awards

For those who arent annually immersed in the exhaustive awards cycle that dominates much of the entertainment industry, heres a helpful SAT-style analogy:

Oscars: film :: Emmys: television

(Grammys are for music and Tonys are for theater and dont even get us started on the Golden Globes, which are a veritable all of the above awards show.)

But things can get a bit confusing when TVs main event is peppered with a generous pinch of Oscar winners and even more Oscar-nominated talent. Especially when those Oscar winners are nominated for Emmys for playing other Oscar winners. (Were looking at you, Lange and Sarandon). For years, the premium cable networks and streaming services have attracted big-screen stars to the once-lowly ranks of the small screen, which further blurred the fading line between cinema and television.

Heres a rundown of some of the familiar faces -- several of whom are no strangers to the Emmys -- who already have Oscar gold on their mantels.

Common The rapper won a Creative Arts Emmy last weekend for his song Letter to the Free from Ava DuVernays 13th. He won the Academy Award for original song for another DuVernay collaboration film, 2014s Selma.

Viola Davis Davis is again nominated for a lead actress Emmy for How to Get Away With Murder. (She won for her role as law professor Annalise Keating back in 2015). Davis notched her Oscar earlier this year for her supporting role in Fences.

Robert De Niro The film veteran is up for his first Emmy this year for playing Ponzi-schemer Bernie Madoff in HBOs The Wizard of Lies, which he also executive produced. He famously won a supporting actor Oscar for 1974s The Godfather: Part II and a lead actor Oscar for 1980s Raging Bull.

Jane Fonda The two-time Oscar winner is again up for lead actress in a comedy with Netflixs Grace and Frankie. She already won Emmy gold for the 1984 TV movie The Dollmaker. Fonda won her first lead actress Oscar for 1971s Klute and the second for 1978s Coming Home.

Anthony Hopkins The Westworld star has two Primetime Emmys to his name: one for 1976s The Lindbergh Kidnapping Case and another for 1981s The Bunker. His Oscar accompanied his iconic lead role in 1991s Silence of the Lambs.

Ron Howard The Happy Days alum-turned-filmmaker is up for three awards this year: producing and directing NatGeos Einstein docudrama Genius and producing Hulus Beatles documentary Eight Days a Week - The Touring Years. (He lost to 13th in the doc category). Howards executive producer credits on From Earth to the Moon and Arrested Development have earned him two Primetime Emmys, and hes won two Oscars for directing and producing the 2001 drama A Beautiful Mind.

Tom Hanks The beloved actor was up for guest actor in a comedy this year for his hosting duties on Saturday Night Live, but he lost to Dave Chappelle at last weeks Creative Arts Emmys. He has previously won seven Primetime Emmy awards as a producer on various HBO projects including Band of Brothers and John Adams. The two-time Oscar winner was celebrated by the film academy for his work in the 90s films Philadelphia and Forrest Gump.

Nicole Kidman The Big Little Lies co-producer and lead actress is up for two Emmys this year. She won a lead actress Oscar for 2002s The Hours.

Jessica Lange A frequent collaborator with producer Ryan Murphy, Lange has won two Emmys while working on his American Horror Story anthology. She also won a lead actress Emmy for 2009s Grey Gardens. This year shes up for a lead actress award for her role as film star Joan Crawford in Murphys limited series Feud: Bette and Joan. Lange won a supporting actress Oscar for 1982s Tootsie and lead actress Oscar for 1994s Blue Sky.

Geoffrey Rush The British actors portrayal of famed scientist Albert Einstein in Genius earned him a nod this year. But hes already earned an Emmy for his take on the Pink Panther in the 2004 TV movie The Life and Death of Peter Sellers. If those two biopics werent enough, his 1996 film Shine notched a lead actor Oscar.

Susan Sarandon Like her Feud costar, Sarandon is up for two Emmys this year: the first for her portrayal of actress Bette Davis, the second for serving as an executive producer on the series. Shes been nominated four other times, but were pretty sure her Oscar for 1995s Dead Man Walking has made up for those losses.

Kevin Spacey The 12-time Emmy Award nominee has no wins yet, but the House of Cards star and executive producer does have two Oscars: One for 1995s The Usual Suspects and another for 1999s American Beauty.

Reese Witherspoon The first-time Emmy nominee, who produced Big Little Lies and played alliteration-friendly stay-at-home mom Madeline Martha Mackenzie, is up for two awards this year. She won a lead actress Oscar for playing the no-nonsense June Carter in 2005s Walk the Line.

Steven Zaillian The Oscar winner for best adapted screenplay for Schindlers List is up for three Emmys this year for writing, directing and producing HBOs crime drama The Night Of.
Streaming video solidified its place as the vanguard for television creativity as Hulus The Handmaids Tale was honored with five statuettes including outstanding drama series at the 69th Emmy Awards.

The win in the drama category marks the first time a streaming series has earned the most prestigious prize at the awards which were presented Sunday at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

FULL COVERAGE: Emmy Awards 2017 >>

Advertisement

1 / 14 Laura Dern with her Emmy for supporting actress in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 14 Ann Dowd of The Handmaids Tale with her Emmy for supporting actress in a drama. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 14 Julia Louis-Dreyfus with her Emmy for actress in a comedy series, for Veep. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 14 Master Of Nones Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe with their Emmys for writing for a comedy series. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 14 This Is Us star Sterling K. Brown with his Emmy for lead actor in a drama series. (Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images) 6 / 14 Elisabeth Moss of The Handmaids Tale with her Emmys for drama series and actress in a drama series. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 14 Saturday Night Lives Kate McKinnon hoists her Emmy for supporting actress in a comedy series. (Mark Ralston / AFP / Getty Images) 8 / 14 Donald Glover poses with the Emmys he won for lead actor in a comedy series and director of a comedy series, for Atlanta. (Mark Ralston / AFP / Getty Images) 9 / 14 Nicole Kidman hoists her awards for lead actress in a limited series or a movie and limited series for Big Little Lies. (Jordan Strauss / Invision / Associated Press) 10 / 14 Alexander Skarsgard in the press room with his award for supporting actor in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies. (Jordan Strauss / Invision / Associated Press) 11 / 14 Alec Baldwin with his Emmy for supporting actor in a comedy series for Saturday Night Live. (Mark Ralston / AFP / Getty Images) 12 / 14 Riz Ahmed of The Night Of with his Emmy for lead actor in a limited series or movie. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 14 Julia Louis-Dreyfus, fourth from left, and the cast of Veep with their Emmy for comedy series. (Mark Ralston / AFP / Getty Images) 14 / 14 The cast and crew of The Handmaids Tale, winner of outstanding drama series. (Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images)

The politically charged series based on the Margaret Atwood novel and produced by MGM Television, also won the drama categories for actress (Elisabeth Moss), supporting actress (Ann Dowd), direction (Reed Morano) and writing (Bruce Miller). With its wins at the Creative Arts Emmys last week, it won a total of eight awards, the second most of any show.

Saturday Night Live won the most of any show  nine  including for actors Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon for their brilliant impersonations of President Trump and Hillary Clinton, wins that underscored the sometimes funny, sometimes fierce political tenor of the awards.

HBOs Veep won for comedy series for the third consecutive year while its star Julia Louis-Dreyfus was named best actress in a comedy for the sixth time, a record for any performer in the same role.

The wins for Hulu, which had not won an Emmy in a major category before, reflect the stunning rise of streaming video which has upended the television industry and also ushered in a boom in television production and diversity of offerings for consumers.

Streaming giant Netflix also scored wins for its anthology series Black Mirror: San Junipero, which was honored for television movie. It also earned a direction win in the category for Charlie Brooker. Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe earned wins in comedy writing for its series Master of None, and John Lithgow won for best supporting actor honor for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in The Crown.

1 / 69 Presenter Oprah Winfrey and Emmy winner Elisabeth Moss of The Handmaids Tale after the show won the Emmy for drama series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 69 Elizabeth Moss receives her Emmy for lead actress in a drama series (The Handmaids Tale) from Tatiana Maslany and Jeffrey D. Morgan. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 69 Elisabeth Moss hugs co-star Joseph Fiennes along with the cast of The Handmaids Tale after they won the drama series award during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 69 Bruce Miller and the cast congratulates Elisabeth Moss of The Handmaids Tale after they won drama series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 69 Cast and crew of Veep accept the comedy series award onstage. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 69 Nicole Kidman reacts to Big Little Lies winning the limited series Emmy. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 69 Nicole Kidman accepts the award for lead actress in a limited series or a movie for Big Little Lies. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 69 Reese Witherspoon, center, accepts for Big Little Lies afer winning the Emmy fpr limited series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 69 Nicole Kidman with the Emmy for lead actress in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 69 Sterling K. Brown accepting his Emmy for lead actor in a drama series for This Is Us. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 69 Alec Baldwin accepts his Emmy for supporting actor in a comedy series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert being carried offstage in a scripted performance. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 69 A tender moment on stage is shared between actors Anna Faris and Allison Janney, the stars of TV comedy series Mom. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 69 Anika Noni Rose and Cecily Tyson present the Emmy for limited series or movie. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 69 Charlie Brooker accepts the award for outstanding television movie for Black Mirror: San Junipero. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 69 Charlie Brooker and Black Mirror: San Junipero win for television movie. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 69 Riz Ahmed wins for lead actor in a limited series or movie for The Night Of. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 69 Norman Lear and Carol Burnett present comedy series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 69 Julia Louis-Dreyfus returns to the stage with Norman Lear and Carol Burnett after her show Veep wins for comedy series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 69 Julia Louis-Dreyfus wins lead actress in a comedy series for Veep. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 69 Julia Louis-Dreyfus wins lead actress in a comedy series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 69 Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer appears onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 69 Chris Hardwick presents Julia Louis-Dreyfus her Emmy as she wins lead actress in a comedy series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 69 Julia Louis-Dreyfus and her husband Brad Hall react in the audience. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 69 LOS ANGELES, CA., AASeptember 17, 2017: Sterling K. Brown accepting his Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama SeriesAduring the show at the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft TheaterAin Los Angeles, CA., Sunday, September 17, 2017. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 69 Oprah Winfrey speaks onstage before presenting the award for drama series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 69 A tender moment between actors Anna Faris and Allison Janney, the stars of TV comedy series Mom. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 69 Actresses Anika Noni Rose, left, and Cicely Tyson present the award for limited series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 69 John Oliver of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver accept the award for variety talk series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 69 Actors Jessica Biel and Joseph Fiennes onstage. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 31 / 69 Executive producer David Mandel and the cast and crew of Veep accept the award for comedy series for Veep. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 69 Reed Morano accepts her award after winning the Emmy for directing for a drama series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 69 Jean-Marc Vallee accepts his Emmy for directing in a limited series or movie (Big Little Lies). (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 69 Ghosted actors Craig Robinson, left, and Adam Scott present the award for directing for a variety series. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 69 Christopher Jackson sings as a picture of Adam West appears on-screen during an in memoriam tribute at the 69th Emmy Awards. (Chris Pizzello / Invision / Associated Press) 36 / 69 Big Bang Theory actor Jim Parsons and Young Sheldon actor Iain Armitage during the show. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 69 Star Trek: Discoverys Sonequa Martin-Green and Entourage actor Jeremy Piven during the show. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 69 Writers Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe accept the writing in a comedy series award for Master of None. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 69 Seth MacFarlane and Emmy Rossum onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 40 / 69 Actress Viola Davis (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 41 / 69 Kaitlin Olsen and Tracee Ellis Ross onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 42 / 69 Kate McKinnon accepts her Emmy for supporting actress in a comedy series Sunday during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 69 Actor Christopher Jackson performs during the in-memoriam section of the 2017 Emmys. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 44 / 69 The cast and crew of The Voice wins the Emmy for reality competition program. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 69 Laura Dern accepts her Emmy for supporting actress in a limited series or movie during the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 46 / 69 Television Academy President Hayma Washington onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 47 / 69 Donald Glover accepts the award for directing a comedy series for the Atlanta episode B.A.N. at the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 48 / 69 LOS ANGELES, CA., September 17, 2017: Ann Dowd accepts the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for The Handmaids Tale during the show at the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, CA., Sunday, September 17, 2017. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 69 Seth Meyers, left, and James Corden speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 50 / 69 Singer Jon Batiste performs onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 51 / 69 Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman in the audience at the 69th Emmy Awards. (John Salangsang / Invision for the Television Acad) 52 / 69 Rachel Bloom performs onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards, introducing the accountants. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 53 / 69 Ernst & Young representatives appear onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 54 / 69 Actor Alexander Skarsgard accepts for supporting actor in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies with Dolly Parton, left, and Lily Tomlin during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 55 / 69 Director Jean-Marc Vallee accepts the directing for a limited series, movie or dramatic special award for Big Little Lies onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 56 / 69 Lorne Michaels and the cast of SNL accept the award for outstanding variety sketch series for Saturday Night Live at the 69th Emmy Awards. (Chris Pizzello / Invision / Associated Press) 57 / 69 Dave Chappelle and Melissa McCarthy speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 58 / 69 The band Stay Human performs during the show at the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 59 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert doing his monologue during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 60 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert is led offstage by costumed individuals recalling characters from HBOs Westworld. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 61 / 69 Actors Issa Rae of Insecure and Riz Ahmed of The Night Of speak onstage. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 62 / 69 Actors Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin) and Shemar Moore (Criminal Minds) speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 63 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert speaks at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater. (Chris Pizzello / Invision/Associated Press) 64 / 69 Actor Laura Dern, left, reacts when her name is read as the winner of the Emmy for supporting actress in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 65 / 69 Actor Laura Dern accepts supporting actress in a limited series or movie for Big Little Lies. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 66 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert dances onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 67 / 69 Actors Shailene Woodley, left, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern and Zoe Kravitz of Big Litle Lies speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 68 / 69 John Lithgow accepts his Emmy for supporting actor in a drama series for The Crown. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 69 / 69 Host Stephen Colbert performs onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

In commenting on the rapid rise of Netflix and streaming, Emmy host Stephen Colbert noted that five years ago their hottest show was a scratched DVD of Finding Nemo.

Premium cable network HBO was the big winner overall on the night with 10 awards, even though its major piece of Emmy artillery Game of Thrones was not eligible this year and one of its most nominated series, Westworld, was shut out of the big awards.

The television academy was not even-handed. Only HBO with 10 wins, Hulu with five, NBC with six, Netflix with four and FX were honored on the night. There were no wins for ABC, CBS, Fox, PBS or any other cable network.

Capping a big night for female-centric shows, HBOs Big Little Lies, a program praised for its depiction of spousal abuse, was honored for limited series or movie and took the categories for actress (Nicole Kidman), actor (Alexander Skarsgard), supporting actress (Laura Dern) and director (Jean-Marc Vallee).

HBOs political commentary show Last Week Tonight With John Oliver earned wins for variety talk series and writing in a variety series. The networks other win came in the actor in a limited series or movie category as Riz Ahmed won for his performance in The Night Of.

The victories for Big Little Lies, The Handmaids Tale, Last Week Tonight and NBCs Saturday Night Live also reflect the Television Academys bent toward political commentary and socially conscious work, which was honored throughout the night. The actresses who were honored encouraged the industry to do more of it, especially in regard to issues important to women.

Its been an incredible year for women on television, said Reese Witherspoon, who co-starred in Big Little Lies, which is based on a based selling novel by Australian author Liane Moriarty. Can I just say, bring women to the front of their own stories, and make them the hero of their own stories.

President Donald Trump, who often lamented that he did not win an Emmy for his reality series The Apprentice, was very much a presence as awards recipients referenced him throughout the night.

I suppose I should say, At long last Mr. President, here is your Emmy, Baldwin said during his acceptance speech for supporting actor in a comedy.

Baldwin acknowledged that his impression of Trump has been life-changing for him. My wife and I had three children in three years, and we didnt have a child last year during the SNL season, he said. I wonder if theres a correlation there. All you men out there, you put that orange wig on, its birth control. Trust me.

Baldwins performance helped thrust SNL front and center in the national political conversation. Kate McKinnon was also honored in the supporting actress in a comedy category for her work on the show which she said is the most important work I would ever do.

Saturday Night Live also won Emmys for best variety sketch series  a prize it has not earned since 1993  and direction of a variety series (Don Roy King).

SNL impresario Lorne Michaels summed up the programs wild ride of the past year in his speech when he accepted the honor for sketch comedy

I remember the first time we won this award, he said. It was after our first season, 1976. And I remember thinking as I was standing there alone that this was it. This was the high point. There would never be another season as crazy, as unpredictable, as frightening, as exhausting,or as exhilarating. Turns out I was wrong.

A number of Emmy wins made history on the night. Waithe was the first African American woman to win an Emmy in comedy writing for a series. Donald Glovers win in direction for his FX comedy series Atlanta was also a first for an African American director.

Glover, who also won for actor in a comedy series, became the first winner of in the comedy direction category to direct himself since Alan Alda did it for MASH in 1977.

Other major winners on the night included Sterling K. Brown, whose work in NBCs This Is Us, earned him a statuette for best actor in a drama series, and John Lithgow who won for best supporting actor in a drama for his portrayal of Winston Churchill in the Netflix series The Crown.

NBCs The Voice was named best reality series for the fourth year in a row.

stephen.battaglio@latimes.com

Twitter: @SteveBattaglio

ALSO:

The complete list of 2017 Emmy winners and nominees

Historic victories for Donald Glover and Julia Louis-Dreyfus at the Emmys

Emmys bear the Colbert stamp: Genial, poignant, exuberant and a little outrageous

One person who probably wasnt excited about Sean Spicers Emmys cameo: Melissa McCarthy
Companionship, adventure and reclaiming ones faith were the promise, but brutality, oppression and hypocrisy were the reality four young Britons found when they left home to join the worlds most notorious terrorist network in Syria.

The State, National Geographics four-part fictional drama that premieres Monday, takes viewers inside the lives of Westerners who voluntarily joined Islamic State in 2015 at the height of the groups power.

The series, a co-production of National Geographic and Britains Channel 4, sets out to answer why anyone raised in the developed world, outside of a war zone, would pledge allegiance to a network whose M.O. is destruction, human trafficking and wholesale brutality.

Advertisement

Unlike most other TV productions, The State filters terrorism through the perspective of the damaged souls who join the cause rather than through the rifle scopes of the Special Ops forces who fight them.

The State enters Islamic States underworld via Jalal (Sam Otto), Ziyad (Ryan McKen), Shakira (Ony Uhiara) and Ushna (Shavani Seth). They all leave England enticed by what theyve seen on social media in videos and posts disseminated by the group  the promise of an ideal life in a new Caliphate (a contiguous Islamic state stretching across the Middle East). Fight for the cause and youre guaranteed employment, stability, marriage and a sense of purpose  no matter how aimless your life was back in the world of apostates.

But each has his or her personal motivations as well. Jalal has a brother he believes was martyred in battle, and joins up to continue the fight. Shakira, a trained doctor and single mom whos struggled in Britain, brings her son with her to Syria to help build a strong new society based on the pious principles of Islam. Ushna is a pampered, insecure teenager who wants to become a lioness among lions. She hopes to achieve this through marriage to a brave fighter.

But once theyre in Raqqah, reality sets in, and its far from what they were sold online.

The women arent allowed outside the all-female compound unless covered head-to-toe and accompanied by a man. If they disobey, they risk public torture and stoning (a punishment they are ordered to inflict on other women who deviate from the rules). Theyll be married off to men theyve never met, many of whom dont even speak the same language.

At least theyre better off than the captured Yazidi women who are being sold into slavery a few blocks away.

The male recruits who dreamed of fighting the enemies of true Islam (whatever that means) instead find theyre now part of barbaric occupying force that threatens, extorts, tortures and beheads terrified citizens, enemies and noncompliant Islamic State recruits. Ziyad adjusts quite comfortably; Jalal does not.

The series, directed by Peter Kosminsky (Wolf Hall), is based on months of research and first-hand accounts of those who either joined, fought or were victimized by Islamic State.

Clearly the background research paid off. The look and feel of the series are authentic, including the Arabesque architecture and marble floors of the captured mansions of Raqqah now inhabited by top commanders, and the cramped quarters of dilapidated buildings where recruits from all of the world must learn to live together.

Their different understandings of that faith, varying interpretations of the Koran and ample cultural baggage exemplify the global battle for the soul of Islam: moderates versus extremists. Secular versus fundamentalist.

The States radicalized Islamic State. members enforce their manipulations of religious law (no smoking, coffee, women looking men in the eye) on townspeople who follow a more recognizable, mainstream interpretation of the faith (women cover by choice, and cigarettes, music and coffee are a core part of life). And among the international pool of recruits, over-zealous Western converts guide their every action by what they see as unbendable religious dictates.

When a white German convert whos joined the cause corrects two other recruits born into the faith for taking their socks off in the wrong order, they mercilessly make fun of him.

Less believable, though, is the mens facial hair. Their beards are just a notch above mall Santa. Why are beards always the last thing TV or film gets right, especially given their obsession with Muslim fundamentalists and hipster fashion trends?

The States bigger flaw, however, is that it doesnt clearly explain the motivations of each main characters life-changing decision to join Islamic State. The series implies their need for direction, self-worth or belonging, but its not enough to justify such a drastic decision. There needs to be more about their backgrounds, and early on in the show, to explain why they take such a risk.

The depiction of life inside of Islamic State, however, is believable  horrifyingly so. The State is a journey into hell, artfully exposing the stories of those who chose to throw it all away and join the most depraved and vicious terrorist group of our time.

The State

Where: National Geographic Channel

When: 9 and 10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday

lorraine.ali@latimes.com

@lorraineali
Hong Kong-based resortwear designer Marie France Van Damme is set to open her ninth boutique, and first in the U.S., on Sept. 25 in Beverly Hills. Located in the Peninsula hotel, there are two stores side-by-side totaling 464 square feet.

Van Damme, a Canadian national, said she searched for years to find the appropriate home in Beverly Hills, though soaring rents on Rodeo Drive prevented her from going there. The new shop aims to mix East and West. It will also serve as a press and celebrity showroom as she seeks to develop ties in Hollywood. Most recently, Eva Longoria wore Marie France Van Damme while on vacation and the brand is favored by celebrities such as Beyonce, Heidi Klum, Cameron Diaz, Olivia Palermo, Christina Hendricks, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Foot traffic is an important factor for my retail locations, and I felt that the constant stream of guests in and out of the Peninsula would provide the right visibility for the brand, said Van Damme.

Advertisement

Van Damme has an established retail network internationally that includes stores in Londons Brompton Cross and Singapores Takashimaya Shopping Centre, with more new boutiques to come as the designer continues to expand her presence worldwide, focusing on cities that not only inspire her, but also appeal to her sophisticated, jet-setting clientele. Last month she introduced her eighth boutique in Bangkoks Gaysorn Village (MFVD also has a boutique within Bangkoks Mandarin Oriental Hotel.)

In addition to the boutiques, the collection is available in 100 doors including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Le Bon Marche, Harrods, and luxury resorts Aman and One & Only. On the heels of the launch of her Beach Bridal collection, Van Damme is preparing to introduce her third City To Resort travel capsule collection for One & Only resorts this fall.

ALSO

2017 Emmy Awards red carpet: A sea of silver, a splash of the mermaid-tail hem and a Stranger Things home run

Nicole Kidman on aging in Hollywood and the success of Big Little Lies

NYFW: Top spring 2018 trends include bra tops, Americana and sunny yellow
A bow hunter who triggered outrage after he shot and killed a deer with an arrow near homes in Monrovia is expected to face charges from the L.A. County district attorney, said Capt. Patrick Foy of the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Michael Rodriguez was caught on a home surveillance camera on Thursday, shooting a young deer with a bow and arrow. He has been interviewed by authorities, but not cited or arrested.

Since then, officials have been inundated with calls from people upset by the video, which has spread across social media.

Advertisement

We have people clamoring for us to move faster, Foy said. They think were not taking this investigation seriously, but we are. We have to do our due diligence.

Foy said an investigation is underway and charges against Rodriguez could include firing a weapon  a bow  within city limits.

There are potentially other charges, but we cant divulge the details at this time, he said.

Monrovia police said they were notified of the incident on Saturday morning after homeowners Chuck and Robyn Tapert saw Rodriguez on their surveillance camera.

I couldnt believe it. Im like, Youve got to be kidding me, Chuck Tapert told CBS Los Angeles. Somebody took a shot at a deer right in front of our house in a residential neighborhood?

Its illegal to shoot deer within city limits.

Rodriguez told CBS L.A. that he first shot the animal in the forest, but the buck didnt die because he hit it near its spine. He followed the deer into the residential neighborhood so he could kill it.

I was following up a wounded animal and taking him out so he wasnt suffering anymore, Rodriguez said.

Officials with Fish and Wildlife took the deer carcass, along with the hunters equipment, as part of the investigation, Foy said.

esmeralda.bermudez@latimes.com

@LATBermudez

UPDATES:

2:20 p.m.: This article was updated to say that authorities seized the deer carcass.

This article was originally published at 1:10 p.m.
The fourth vessel with 75,000 tonnes of anthracite from South Africa for Prydniprovska and Kryvy Rih thermal power plants (TPPs) of DTEK Energo has arrived in the Yuzhny seaport, the company's press service reported on Monday.

"Bulker Semiramis delivered 75,000 tonnes of South African anthracite to Ukraine. After unloading in the Yuzhny port coal will be sent to warehouses of Prydniprovska and Kryvy Rih TPPs and the plants will have coal to operate in autumn and winter," the company said.

The press service said that in August 2017, DTEK launched these plants to maintain power supplies in the country in the summer power consumption peak. Generation by anthracite-burning TPPs of DTEK soared almost 2.5-fold compared to July 2016, to 564 million kWh. The plants totally burnt around 10,000 tonnes of coal a day.

"We are waiting for one more bulker with 75,000 tonnes next week. After the loss of our anthracite coalmines and the increase of the burden on gas coal, we had to import coal. However, this is a temporary decision for our company," DTEK Energo Commercial Director Vitaliy Butenko said.

Thus, DTEK has imported 300,000 tonnes of anthracite from South Africa. The first vessel with 75,000 tonnes of anthracite arrived to Ukraine on May 25, the second on July 23, the third on August 14. The company contracted a total of 675,000 tonnes of coal in South Africa.
The killings  hundreds of miles and several years apart  seemed unrelated.

An entrepreneur found shot to death in his Las Vegas home. A prominent attorney killed by a bullet to the head in his Rolling Hills Estates driveway. A father slain in front of his young children in the courtyard of their Whittier apartment complex.

But now authorities say there is a connection: a Whittier businessman.

Advertisement

According to investigators in California and Nevada, 64-year-old Richard Wall is a suspect in all three slayings  which they say appear to be professional hits related to business and legal disputes. Officials said they do not believe Wall carried out the shootings himself.

Wall has not been charged with a crime, and detectives declined to detail the evidence they have collected, saying they are continuing to investigate.

Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department said they have spoken to friends, relatives and former employees of Walls manufacturing business, who say he is in Montenegro. The Eastern European country has no extradition treaty with the United States.

Walls attorney, Rickey Ivie, said his client had no involvement in the deaths and that the allegations make no sense.

He happened to have litigation with the people, he said. Thats all. To me, thats wholly inadequate.

When asked about Walls whereabouts, Ivie declined to comment.

It seems to me that Mr. Wall deserves more than a trial in the court of public opinion, Ivie said. Hes not a fugitive. He hasnt been charged with anything.

Investigators said they have known for years that the killings were connected, but declined to say how. They said they focused on Wall as a suspect only recently. Two of his employees were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy in May and jailed for five days before they were released due to a lack of evidence, said Los Angeles County sheriffs Det. Bob Kenney.

On May 20, 2008, a relative found the body of David James DJ Vargas inside his home a little more than a mile from the Las Vegas Strip. He may have been dead for one or two days, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Det. Clifford Mogg said.

Vargas, 53, was self-employed. According to Mogg, he had been trying to start an escort and limo service  and owed Wall at least $100,000. The two men had a falling out over the debt, Mogg said, adding that there were similarities between Vargas death and the two that followed. The detective declined to elaborate.

Walls lawyer said he believed Vargas had conflicts with a number of persons, not just involving financial debts.

He owed a lot of people money, Ivie said.

On Dec. 7, 2009, Jeffrey Tidus walked outside of his Rolling Hills Estates home and was shot in the back of the head. He died a day later.

The shooting shocked Tidus quiet Palos Verdes Peninsula neighborhood and Los Angeles legal community.

The attorney  a partner at Baute & Tidus  was known as an aggressive litigator who won large-dollar judgments for his clients.

He was the rainmaker for that firm, Los Angeles County sheriffs Det. Joe Espino said of Tidus, who also served on the board of governors for the State Bar of California.

Among Tidus clients was a man who had won an $11-million judgment against a friend and business associate of Walls, a former tax attorney named Christopher Gruys.

During a pretrial deposition in 2005, Gruys had pulled out a camera and took a photograph of Tidus, then made what the attorney interpreted as a threat, according to a declaration Tidus filed in court seeking a restraining order.

I felt and continue to feel threatened by Mr. Gruys statements and conduct, Tidus said in the declaration.

When Tidus client tried to collect on the judgment, he filed another suit against Gruys and Wall. The client alleged that Gruys was transferring money to Walls business to avoid paying what he owed, according to an appellate court decision in the case, which also mentioned that Gruys was the best man at Walls wedding.

Sheriffs detectives previously described Gruys as a person of interest, but not a suspect, in Tidus death. Authorities in May released a sketch of an additional, unidentified person of interest whom they want to question.

Gruys attorney, Thomas M. Brown, said his client has done nothing wrong and hasnt heard from Wall or spoken to him recently.

They maybe talk a couple times a year, Brown said.

In July, sheriffs detectives asked the publics help in finding Wall, who they announced was a third person of interest in the Tidus killing. In recent months investigators have served search warrants at Walls home and business, along with an airplane hangar in Fullerton that he rents and a house boat he owns in Lake Mead, Espino said.

Additional interviews and physical evidence led investigators to conclude Wall was involved in the lawyers killing, Espino said, though he declined to elaborate.

Walls wall is starting to crumble, Espino said.

When Juan Gabriel Ramirez-Mendez was fatally shot outside his apartment on Feb. 26, 2011, it looked like a professional hit, Whittier police Det. Chad Hoeppner said. Ramirez-Mendez, 35, had been shot at close range in front of his 7-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son.

The killing was carried out by two men, Hoeppner said. One was described as about 6 feet tall, between 170 and 180 pounds, and wearing blue jeans and a black coat with a hood. Police have not released a description of the other.

Ramirez-Mendez had worked for Walls business, Welded Fixtures, creating displays for retailers from September 2007 to December 2008. In 2009, he filed a class-action lawsuit against the firm on behalf of employees, alleging workers were not compensated for overtime and made to take short meal breaks or none at all, according to court records.

The lawsuit was settled in December 2010, three months before Ramirez-Mendez was killed, according to the case records. Ramirez-Mendez never received payment in the suit, Hoeppner said.

Last month, an in escrow sign stood outside Walls gated home perched atop a hill in Whittier. The online listing for the 3,500-square-foot residence boasted imported Italian windows and outdoor patio complete with a pizza oven, a waterfall and a Jacuzzi overlooking panoramic views from Orange County to downtown Los Angeles.

Residents in the area said Wall kept to himself; one thought he might have been on vacation.

nicole.santacruz@latimes.com

For more crime news, follow @nicolesantacruz on Twitter.

ALSO

Engineer who admitted selling military secrets was also plotting to kill wife, prosecutors say

L.A. woman who received an unenforceable plea deal asks Brown to commute her sentence

Homeless man beaten with skateboard in unprovoked attack is placed on life support, San Diego police say
A woman was riding a Bay Area Rapid Transit train on Friday afternoon when someone behind her handed her an ominous note.

There are 2 guns pointed at you now, the note read. If you want to live hand back your wallet & phone NOW & do not turn around and be descreet. Do not turn around until after you have left civic center & you will live.

Julie Dragland, 32, didnt hand over any of her possessions, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Instead, she faked a seizure, drawing other passengers attention and prompting the would-be mugger to exit the train.

Advertisement

When I read the note, I started freaking out, Dragland told the Chronicle. I did not want to give up my stuff, but I had no idea who was behind me.

In its online crime log, BART police said a female passenger reported being handed a note on a train to Dublin.

The victim faked a medical problem to attract attention and reported the incident to police, but did not want to speak to an officer, the log states, without mentioning her name. The victim later contacted an officer in Oakland and provided more information.

The woman, authorities said, thought the person sitting behind her on the train was a white female who was pulling a suitcase. BART officers checked the Civic Center Station in San Francisco but did not find anyone matching that description.

BART police said late Monday, however, that surveillance footage corroborates the womans initial report.

Video from the train shows a woman, possibly in her 30s with long strawberry blond hair, seated behind the victim, who was alone. The woman reached over the victims shoulder, officials said, at which point the victim faked a medical problem.

At least two passengers checked on her. Thats when the suspect got up and got off the train at the Powell Street Station.

Authorities said theres no indication from the video the suspect was armed.

The female passenger said she would not press charges if the suspect was located, according to BART police.

Dragland told the Chronicle that, after receiving the note, she mouthed help me to a man standing nearby. But after that man exited the train, she pretended to have a seizure to draw other peoples attention. She slumped to the side and started shaking and crying, she said.

When a couple approached to ask if she was OK, she handed them the note, the Chronicle reported. She thought the would-be mugger exited at Civic Center, which was the next stop.

Dragland told the Chronicle she had the idea to fake a seizure because she watched a lot of Law & Order.

Times staff writer Alene Tchekmedyian contributed to this report.

hailey.branson@latimes.com

Twitter: @haileybranson

UPDATES:

9:10 p.m.: This article was updated with a surveillance photo of the suspect.

This article was originally published at 12:10 p.m.
A multi-day series of political speeches promoted by right-wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos at UC Berkeley next week will occur mostly outdoors instead of within two rarefied campus halls as initially planned.

The campus administration said this weekend that organizers missed the deadline to reserve two large indoor venues on campus for the planned four-day event.

But organizers still have access to the Savio Steps at the center of Sproul Plaza as well as another adjoining plaza at the southern entrance to the Berkeley campus for eight of their nine planned events, a campus spokesman said in a statement.

Advertisement

Organizers have said Ann Coulter and former White House strategist Stephen K. Bannon are still slated to attend even though theyre missing from the final event schedule the campus says it received from the student group sponsoring the event, a conservative publication called the Berkeley Patriot that has been working with Yiannopoulos to set up the speeches.

That means Coulter, Bannon, Yiannopoulos and others would have to speak in a plaza usually bustling with harried students, recruiters for campus clubs and Berkeleys various street personalities.

The plaza is regularly the site of demonstrations and was the center of violent protests in February before a planned speech by Yiannopoulos was canceled.

Protesters watch a fire at Berkeleys Sproul Plaza during a rally in February against a scheduled appearance by far-right commentator Milo Yiannopoulos. (Ben Margot / Associated Press)

The publications news editor, Pranav Jandhyala, said in a phone interview that despite the fact that Bannon and Coulter werent included on the list of scheduled speakers, theyre still confirmed to come.

They think because weve lost the venue, that weve lost those speakers. They are coming. those speakers are still coming, Jandhyala said. They will speak on Sproul Plaza if we have to. I got confirmation from all of them regardless of the venue that theyre still coming.

Yiannopoulos and conservative author David Horowitz are the only speakers who have confirmed to the campus that they are coming, university spokesman Dan Mogulof said.

Mogulof said in a statement that the student group will try to reschedule the speakers they had hoped would talk at Zellerbach Hall and Wheeler Auditorium, two of the larger spaces on campus, for another time.

But the organizers may have trouble finding a time for the likes of Bannon and Coulter to talk. The only time, university officials said, they could accommodate new speakers would be at the Tuesday night talk at Sproul Plaza from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Based on the information provided to date, [the University of California Police Department] has already initiated outreach to allied law enforcement agencies and UCPD will have the resources in place necessary to accommodate changes to the event program at that location, at that time, Mogulof said in a statement.

He said university police need at least 10 days to work with allied law enforcement agencies that would provide the additional personnel UCPD has determined to be necessary to protect public safety when potential criminal activity is anticipated.

In a six-minute-and-41-second video posted Monday morning, Yiannopoulos decried what he called the Berkeley administrations coordinated bureaucratic mission to silence conservative voices at Berkeley.

Yiannopoulos also expressed frustration that a contract clause, which wouldve allowed him to get a refund if the event was canceled at the last minute, was not included. Mogulof, Berkeleys spokesman, said an inclusion of such a clause would be unprecedented for campus venues.

Last week, more than 200 instructors and faculty members called for a shutdown of classes and activities during the events in order to protect their students from potentially deadly violence.

The campus estimates it spent $600,000 on extra security and police officers to prepare for a speech last Thursday by conservative author Ben Shapiro. City and campus officials took heightened steps to prevent the sort of chaos that descended on campus when Yiannopoulos tried to speak in February.

The only indoor space organizers have reserved for the week is the university-owned Anna Head Hall for a Monday night talk featuring former Google employee James Damore and University of Toronto professor Jordan Peterson.

But university police cannot accommodate last-minute changes to the program for that event, Mogulof said.

Three of the originally listed speakers have said they are not attending the event.

Police officers last week cut off access to Sproul Plaza, the site of Mario Savios famous 1964 address during the free speech movement and a common meeting ground for activists of all stripes, as a security precaution during Shapiros talk last week.

javier.panzar@latimes.com

benjamin.oreskes@latimes.com
Long Beach police are seeking the publics help identifying a man who exposed himself to young girls at least five times since early August.

Authorities said the man approached the girls, always in the afternoon, and asked them for directions before exposing himself, according to the Long Beach Police Department. The girls were 12 to 15 years old.

The five incidents occurred between Aug. 6 and Tuesday between Arbor Road, Atherton Street, Bellflower Boulevard and Palo Verde Avenue.

Advertisement

The suspect was described as a Latino man with a thin to average build, black hair and facial hair. Police said he is 5-foot-9 and 20 to 40 years old.

He has been seen riding a dark-colored bicycle and possibly wearing glasses.

Anyone with information on the man is asked to call Det. James Smigla at (562) 570-7368.

alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com

Twitter: @AleneTchek
Some of the states biggest water districts are about to make their opening moves in a financial chess game that ultimately could saddle the Southland with much of the bill for re-engineering the failing heart of Californias water system.

In coming weeks, the districts are expected to decide if they want to sign on to California WaterFix  a long-planned proposal to construct two massive tunnels that would change the way water supplies move through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Advertisement

Backers long have operated under the assumption that the cost, now estimated at nearly $17 billion, would be split among customers of the big government water projects according to the size of their contracts for delta supplies.

Under that scenario, the largely urban agencies supplied by the State Water Project would pick up 55% of the tunnel tab, and the largely agricultural districts supplied by the federal Central Valley Project would pay for 45%.

But as the votes approach, there are growing doubts that agriculture will agree to pay that much.

What happens if Central Valley farmers arent paying their share? Whos going to get stuck with the costs? said Mark Gold, who represents Los Angeles on the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California board. Thats one of the big questions thats out there. And to be honest, thats not been very well-answered.

The MWD is scheduled to vote Oct. 10 on a $4.3-billion tunnel buy-in. That amounts to 26% of the project, reflecting the districts giant contract in the State Water Project.

As the biggest player, MWDs support is vital. Other agencies with potentially large stakes in WaterFix are the Kern County Water Agency, a state contractor that serves irrigation districts in the southern San Joaquin Valley; the huge Westlands Water District, which gets delta supplies from the Central Valley Project; and the Santa Clara Valley Water District in the Bay Area.

I think the level of participation is, if I had to guess, going to be different than 55-45. I dont know how its going to play out, said Curtis Creel, the Kern agencys general manager.

We think this is a good project. California needs to do this, he said. We also recognize that there may be folks out there that say, I agree, but we simply cant afford it, so we cant participate. 

Adding to the funding questions is the fact that two groups that by law get Central Valley Project water from the delta  wildlife refuges and irrigation districts with senior water rights  do not have to share the tunnel costs.

But even if tunnel backers, all of whom are due to vote this fall, dont vote to fully fund the project, it wont be the end of WaterFix. It will be the beginning of deal making.

MWD, for example, could enlarge its stake by buying or leasing part of another agencys share. It then could keep the extra water for its own customers use or sell it in dry years to other districts.

Kern and [MWD] are the people who really do well in a project like this because we have storage, MWD General Manager Jeffrey Kightlinger said. His agency has a large Riverside County reservoir, and Kern County has several groundwater banks.

If I got 40% of the benefits of this project, I would be more than happy to recommend to my board, lets pay 40%, Kightlinger said. Were the ones that can take and utilize that 40%. Now, the board may disagree and say thats too rich. Thats their option. But Im not asking them to commit to that at the outset.

Of course, a bigger investment would push up ratepayer costs.

A recent analysis by the Los Angeles Office of Public Accountability said WaterFix could add anywhere from $10.44 to $51.72 a year to the water bills of the citys median single-family residence. The high number was partly based on the State Water Project paying for 68% of the project.

Another alternative would be to downsize WaterFix to match whatever water districts are willing to pay.

You could potentially build a smaller system, said Karla Nemeth, deputy secretary for water policy at the California Natural Resources Agency.

But after a decade of planning and multiple revisions to the current proposal, Kightlinger said he didnt think there would be much interest in starting over.

He also said his board has made it very clear that it doesnt want to strike any deal that would amount to a subsidy for farmers tunnel share.

Yet if the urban sector takes on a bigger portion of WaterFix, it is not clear how that could be avoided.

For one thing, the tunnels would be incorporated into the system that currently delivers water from the delta, making it difficult to ensure that agencies that dont participate in the project dont somehow benefit from it.

Theres going to be fighting in the future forever between the parties that opted out and the parties that opted in over how much water the parties that opted out ought to get, said Keith Lewinger, who represents the San Diego County Water Authority on the MWD board.

I guarantee there will be litigation over that, he said.

And if urban agencies sell tunnel water to irrigation districts during dry years, can  or will  it be priced to fully reflect the capital costs of the supplies?

Those who doubt agricultures willingness to pay its way got some ammunition in a report released this month by the U.S. Interior Departments inspector general.

The office found that the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees the Central Valley Project, improperly left federal taxpayers on the hook for $50 million in tunnel-planning costs that irrigation districts should have paid for.

Thanks to what the inspector general called a complex, obscure process, Central Valley Project contractors between 2009 and mid-2016 contributed only 18% of the more than $250 million in planning costs. State Water Project agencies, including MWD, contributed 47%.

Christopher Thornberg, a founding partner of Beacon Economics who has consulted for MWD on WaterFix, says growers can afford the tunnels. After all, he said, even during the recent drought, California agriculture enjoyed record revenues and high employment.

Economically, its realistic. The farmers have as much to gain from these tunnels as anybody else, he said. Are they going to pay for it? Politically is it reasonable to assume that? The answer is almost assuredly no.

Theyre constantly crying poor, and they get away with it, he said. And my guess is  this will happen this time as well.

bettina.boxall@latimes.com

Twitter: @boxall
President Trump takes to the worlds largest stage this week. And many onstage are worried.

Trump will deliver his first address Tuesday to the full United Nations General Assembly, an annual meeting that draws diplomats and leaders from 193 countries.

Neither Russian President Vladimir Putin nor Chinese President Xi Jinping are coming this year. That gives even more running room to a celebrity president who has shaken global institutions with his America first policy and whom diplomats politely describe as unpredictable.

Advertisement

People are on tenterhooks, said Stewart Patrick, an expert on global institutions and governance at the nonpartisan Council on Foreign Relations. This is the most nationally minded president weve had in a long time  walking into the lions den.

Trumps aides said he will emphasize core U.S. interests on North Korea, Iran, Syria, terrorism and other key issues in a kind of diplomatic speed-dating, meetings that start Monday and run through Thursday.

They are all very anxious to hear what he has to say, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley said Friday at a White House briefing for reporters.

I think theres a lot of interest in how the U.S. is going to do, and theyre going to find out we are going to be solid, were going to be strong, she said.

She added that Trump slaps the right people [and] hugs the right people.

H.R. McMaster, the White House national security advisor, said Trump will emphasize the theme of sovereignty in his bilateral and multilateral meetings.

Sovereignty and accountability are the essential foundations of peace and prosperity, McMaster said at the White House briefing.

Trump will meet the leaders of France and Israel on Monday. After his speech Tuesday morning, Trump will have lunch with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other leaders.

On Wednesday, he will meet with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt, the United Kingdom and the Palestinian Authority. On Thursday, he meets with the leaders of Turkey, Afghanistan and Ukraine, as well as South Korea and Japan. Mixed in is a dinner for Latin American leaders, a working lunch with African leaders and other activities.

Diplomats say they have learned not to overreact to some of Trumps more inflammatory statements. Mexican officials, for example, have been at the bruising end of many of his tweet storms, but they continue to work with his administration.

I think the world is still trying to take the measure of this president, said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East program at the bipartisan Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. For a number of leaders, this is going to be their first chance to see him, to judge him, to try to get on his good side. How that goes off is unclear.

If the U.S. government decides that it doesnt care about the U.N., he added, the consequences for the U.N., which is running operations in dozens and dozens of countries with vulnerable people around the world, would be profound.

The jittery anticipation of Trumps first U.N. appearance stands in marked contrast to the prelude to President Obamas maiden address in 2009. Received as something of a hero, he delivered an impassioned plea for international cooperation against global warming, which gelled seven years later into a historic climate accord  one that Trump has vowed to reject.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who has sought to trim the State Department, initially planned to take a much smaller team of diplomats and subject experts to New York than his predecessors did. It is not yet clear how much smaller, given that the delegation has grown in recent days.

Haley, for her part, has talked tough about changing the United Nations. Early on, she announced she would be taking names of countries that did not cooperate with the U.S., and she has attacked what she sees as U.N. bias against Israel.

But she also has skillfully maneuvered in the stuffy halls of the U.N., finding common cause with the new secretary-general, who took office in January and who has worked closely with her on reforming the world body.

It is a new day at the U.N., she said cheerily Friday. Its not just about talking. Its about action.

Peter Yeo, president of the Better World Campaign, which advocates improving U.S. relations with the U.N., said he hopes Trumps speech will be more on the teleprompter side, meaning scripted, and less on the campaign stump speech side, or impromptu.

For some in Trumps electoral base, the U.N. is the bastion of evil globalism and it will be incumbent on him, in their view, to denounce the bloated, money-wasting bureaucracy that somehow threatens U.S. sovereignty. It was a common thread in his election campaign.

As a candidate, Trump repeatedly derided global institutions and international alliances, claiming allies and adversaries alike routinely took advantage of Americas generosity or gullibility.

Since taking office, he has wavered somewhat. Although he repeatedly condemned the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico, for example, the three countries are in talks that are likely to keep the deal mostly intact.

Trump similarly challenged the NATO military alliance that has served as the bedrock of European defense, refusing to endorse its joint defense protocol. But he later did so.

He has threatened to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear disarmament deal with Iran. But the accord has the U.N. Security Councils blessing, and the U.N.s nuclear watchdog agency has consistently found that Tehran is complying with its obligations.

Although Trump and his aides all have argued that Iran is violating the spirit of the deal, the administration last week extended sanctions waivers that are part of the deal.

Trump has no plans to meet with Irans president, Hassan Rouhani, who will be in New York this week. Rouhani and Obama spoke by phone on the sidelines of the 2013 General Assembly, the first such high-level contact since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, setting the stage for the talks that ultimately produced the nuclear deal.

North Koreas recent nuclear and missile tests are expected to take up a major part of U.N. discussions this week. A delegation from Pyongyang is scheduled to attend, although the countrys reclusive leader, Kim Jong Un, is not in the group.

The 15-member Security Council, which includes the U.S., China and Russia, has twice in the last two months unanimously approved tough sanctions against North Korea in an effort  so far unsuccessful  to force it to back away from its relentless pursuit of nuclear weaponry.

In his address, Trump is expected to urge other countries to pay more into the U.N. budget, much as he did at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and call for streamlining operations. He will lead a meeting Monday on reforming the U.N., a cause he embraced as a candidate.

The United States is the largest contributor to the world organization. But it is about $1 billion in arrears, and the administration would like to trim the U.S. role sharply.

The Trump administration has proposed drastic cuts to U.N. peacekeeping missions, for which the U.S. currently funds about 28% of the $6.8-billion budget.

The administration is also considering trying to convert its mandatory financial obligations to voluntary contributions, a move that probably would cost the world body billions of dollars.

Under the U.N. Charter, member states are assessed dues based on their gross domestic product. They often pay additional money for specific programs, such as the World Food Program, which provides supplies in famine areas, or the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, which coordinates refugee relief in Syria, Sudan and elsewhere.

tracy.wilkinson@latimes.com

For more on international affairs, follow @TracyKWilkinson on Twitter
Hundreds of riot police mobilized in downtown St. Louis overnight, arresting more than 80 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism after another day of peaceful protests over a former police officers acquittal in the killing of a black man.

The arrests late Sunday came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

Im proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight, Interim Police Chief Lawrence OToole said at a news conference early Monday.

Advertisement

A judge ruled Friday that Jason Stockley, who left the Police Department and moved to Houston three years ago, was not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith. The ruling set off raucous protests throughout the weekend. Another peaceful demonstration was expected Monday.

On Sunday, more than 1,000 people gathered at police headquarters then marched without trouble through downtown St. Louis, the posh Central West End, and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City. Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St. Louis County.

By nightfall, most had dispersed. The 100 or so people who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched back toward downtown. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels, and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers.

One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital. His condition wasnt known.

Soon afterward, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, and police scoured downtown deep into the night, making arrests and seizing at least five weapons, according to OToole. Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a boulevard chanting whose street, our street  a common refrain used by the protesters  after clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

Were in control. This is our city and were going to protect it, OToole said.

Mayor Lyda Krewson said at the same Monday news conference that the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive and that destruction cannot be tolerated.

The recent St. Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson, Mo.: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

Protest organizer Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out: While change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression have caused some to turn violent.

I do not say the [violent] demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best, Bell said.

State Rep. Bruce Franks, a Democrat who has participated in the peaceful protests, said those behind the violence are not protesters.

The late night unrest since the verdict was issued has led to destruction across the St. Louis area. It was after nightfall Friday that people shattered a window at the home of Mayor Krewson, smashed about two dozen windows and threw trash cans and rocks at police in University City on Saturday, and knocked out windows downtown on Sunday.

Many protesters believe police provoked demonstrators by showing up in riot gear and armored vehicles; police said they had no choice but to protect themselves once protesters started throwing things at them.

Democratic Rep. Michael Butler said police should target the agitators and allow others to continue demonstrating. He protested Friday, and after that said police have been doing a poor job of identifying bad actors in the crowds.

Theres not been any learning from Ferguson, Butler said.

Stockley shot Smith after high-speed chase as officers tried to arrest Smith and his partner in a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified he felt endangered because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smiths car after the shooting. The officers DNA was on the weapon but Smiths wasnt. Dashcam video from Stockleys cruiser recorded him saying he was going to kill this . Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockleys lawyer dismissed the comment as human emotions during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley murdered Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.
Q: What do you call a congressman who votes against emergency aid for hurricane victims?

A: A piece of  .

Sure, the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce later apologized for that particular characterization of the libertarian-leaning Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who was one of just three members of the House of Representatives brave and/or foolish enough to vote against the $7.85-billion Hurricane Harvey relief bill. But generally speaking, this is how the public treats heretics who oppose blank checks during times of crisis.

Thats a shame because the Scrooges have a point, even if you dont share their (and my) concern over a national debt that zoomed past the $20-trillion mark last week. The fact is that existing government policy encourages too many people to live in harms way.

Advertisement

For nearly 50 years, the federal government has administered the National Flood Insurance Program, which allows millions of property owners in flood-prone areas to purchase protection against water damage at below-market rates. More than half of the beneficiaries live in  of all places!  Florida and Texas.

Theres no compelling reason for South Dakota to bail out South Beach.

The NFIP, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, was nearly $25 billion in debt even before hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Only through periodic bailouts can the fund keep its anti-actuarial promises. And, as The Times delicately phrased it in a recent news article, The cheap rates have also confused some homeowners about the risk of flooding in their neighborhood.

Economists have been telling us for decades that prices are a way of conveying information, and individuals tend to respond to incentives. It doesnt require an advanced degree to reckon just how people will respond to the incentive of artificially inexpensive insurance rates in dangerous but attractive locales.

While there is an imperative for the government to provide assistance in time of crisis, Kevin Starbuck, the former emergency management coordinator for the city of Amarillo, Texas, asserted in a December 2016 Homeland Security Affairs paper, that assistance may change behavior; policies designed to limit risk may actually prolong or increase risk. Welcome to the concept of moral hazard.

This being government, politics also tend to get in the way. No office-holder wants to be the one to tell existing property owners that their holiday from the free market is over. For that reason, homeowners were grandfathered in at unreasonably low rates when FEMA first drew up its flood insurance rate maps and guaranteed access to coverage.

The result is as grisly as you would expect: 3.8% of policyholders have filed for repetitive losses, accounting for a disproportionate 35.5% of flood loss claims and 30.5% of claim payments, Starbuck said. Of those serial recipients, FEMA estimates that a jaw-dropping 90% pay grandfathered rates. Every new calamity, and every new check-writing flurry from the feds, perpetuates a dumb system.

California is no stranger to government-insurance policies gone horribly wrong. In 1968, the same year that brought us the National Flood Insurance Act, Congress brought into existence Fair Access to Insurance Requirements, which made government the property insurer of last resort in places insurance companies wouldnt touch, such as riot-scarred inner cities. Over time, almost as if to illustrate the concept of mission creep, FAIR policies in California clustered disproportionately in rich, fire-prone regions such as Malibu.

These bass-ackward incentives are glaringly obvious to almost everybody who has studied the governments disaster-area insurance guarantees. Yet they persist, mutate and even grow. Why?

Because nobody likes to be called a piece of  .

So maybe its time to flip the script. Congress and President Trump just extended the National Flood Insurance Program  which had been scheduled to run out at the end of this month  until Dec. 8. That gives the Legislature plenty of time to, at minimum, put an end to grandfathered rates.

But the longer-term solution is staring us right in the face. Let the market, not some hustlers trying to win reelection, determine how to price insurance in floodplains, fire belts and along earthquake faults. Stop socializing other peoples siting decisions. Theres no compelling reason for South Dakota to bail out South Beach.

I dont think now is the time to debate those things, White House Homeland Security advisor Tom Bossert told reporters in the midst of Hurricane Harvey. But Bossert has it wrong. Because we tend to pay attention to catastrophes only when they happen, it behooves us in those moments to fix broken policy before the next one hits.

Make Harvey and Irma our last blank checks, and from here on out, have people pay their own freight for living dangerously. Its time we separated our disaster policy from Shinola.

Matt Welch is editor at large of Reason, a magazine published by the libertarian Reason Foundation, and a contributing writer to Opinion.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has signed Decree No. 278/2017, entitled "On the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) resolution of September 13, 2017, 'On proposals to the Ukrainian draft law on the 2018 national budget' on articles relating to the provision of the national security and defense of Ukraine."

The decree brings the resolution into effect and entrusts control over implementation to NSDC Secretary Oleksandr Turchynov, according to the president's website.

The NSDC ordered the government to set aside at least 5% of GDP for the security and defense budget in 2018. Ukraine's national security and defense sector would need at least UAH 165,372,300,000, including at least UAH 158,997,300,000 from the general national budget fund and UAH 6,375,000,000 from a special national budget fund.

In particular, funding for the Defense Ministry in 2018 should consist of UAH 81,689,200,000 from the national budget's general fund, and 1,625,300,000 from the special fund.

For the National Guard and National Police, the figures would be UAH 10,354,000,000 (the general fund) and UAH 739,000,000 (the special fund), and UAH 24,277,200,000 and UAH 90,000,000, respectively.

The administration of the State Border Guard Service is to be allocated UAH 9,010,600,000 from the general national budget fund and UAH 33,200,000 from the special fund; the State Emergency Services, UAH 9,774,600,000 and UAH 969,400,000; and the Security Service, UAH 7,491,100,000 and UAH 160,900,000, respectively.

The government was also to consider funding in 2018 for a state target program to create and launch the production of ammunition and special chemical products by 2021 and a state target program to reform and develop the defense-industrial complex by 2021, at 0.5% of Gross Domestic Product (but no less than UAH 6 billion) on top of the funding for the national security and defense sector, as defined by the national security and defense development concept approved by the presidential decree N92 of March 14, 2016.

The government is also to plan annually for the spending on national security and defense needs at the expense of the special national budget fund, in accordance with their submitted justified proposals.

Starting from 2018, the government is to leave all special-fund receipts for financing the needs of the national security and defense entities that ensured such receipts.

Also in 2018 the government is to provide primary funding for national security and defense entities in the following priority areas: strengthening Ukraine's air defense system and Air Force capabilities; implementing the state cybersecurity policy; implementing measures to develop and upgrade special communications and information security; implementing the 2016-2020 national intelligence program reinforcing counter-intelligence protection and counter-terrorism and counter-sabotage measures; conducting intensive combat training of the Ukrainian armed forces and other legitimate military forces; securing the national border; implementing social guarantees for servicemen, primarily by increasing the proportion of wages and rank pay in the structure of their salaries.

The government also has ten days from the effective date of the 2018 national budget law to draft key indicators of the 2018-2020 state defense order and submit them for consideration to the NSDC.

In addition, the government has until November 1, 2017 to consider introducing a mechanism of favorable mortgage lending for troops, rank-and-file and senior personnel and their family members.

The official exchange rate as set by National Bank of Ukraine for September 18, 2017 is UAH 26.224 /$1.

On September 13 Poroshenko told the National Security and Defense Council: "In accordance with Ukrainian cabinet proposals, UAH 163 billion [about US$6.26 billion] is to be sent for the national security and defense needs in 2018. That is UAH 20 billion [$0.77 billion] more than in the current year."
California farmworkers will have to undergo sexual assault prevention training By Jazmine Ulloa Gov. Jerry Brown/ (Monica Davey/ EPA) Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday signed legislation to ensure farm labor contractors train employees on how to prevent and report sexual assault, a response to a 2013 PBS Frontline investigation that found sexual violence against women was a pervasive problem in California fields. Senate Bill 295 by Sen. Bill Monning (D-Carmel) makes sexual harassment training mandatory at all businesses that supervise farm employees or provide them with lodging, transportation or other services. The training has to be conducted or interpreted in a language that employees can understand, the law stipulates, and farm labor contractors will have to provide proof of all of their materials and resources to the Farm Labor Commission as part of the license renewal process. Under the new law, the state labor commission also will be able to charge a $100 civil fine for any violation of the new requirements. The PBS Frontline investigative documenatory, Rape in the Fields, The Hidden Story of Rape on the Job in America found more than half a million women work in U.S. fields. Most do not have legal residency in the country, and sexual harassment and violence often go unreported. A 2012 Human Rights Watch survey found 80% of 150 women in Californias Central Valley had experienced some form of the abuse. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Los Angeles voters can cast ballots in Assembly race on Tuesday By Chris Megerian Wendy Carrillo is one of 13 people running for a state Assembly seat. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) The political dominoes from U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxers retirement are almost done falling. Her decision two years ago to forgo reelection led to a reshuffling that eventually left vacant a state Assembly seat in Los Angeles. There are 13 candidates running in the special election, and the primary is Tuesday. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Gov. Brown signs major housing legislation By Liam Dillon At a signing ceremony in San Francisco on Friday morning, Gov. Jerry Brown signed 15 bills aimed at addressing the states mounting housing problems. It is a big challenge, Brown said. We have risen to it this year. The bills could add nearly $1 billion in new funding for low-income housing developments in the near term as well as lessen regulations that slow growth. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Watch live: Gov. Jerry Brown signs bills to tackle Californias housing crisis Gov. Jerry Brown and state lawmakers are gathered in San Francisco for the signing into law of a package of proposals designed to tackle some of the most pressing parts of Californias housing crisis. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Businesses in California will be required to tell customers exactly how much their automatic renewal will cost By Mina Corpuz California will require online businesses that offer free trials to tell customers exactly how much an automatic renewal will cost under a law signed by Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday. The laws author, Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys), thinks the bill, known as SB 313, will make it easier for customers to cancel service. Consumers need to know what they are signing up for and that they can just as easily cancel any service or subscription online as when they started it online, Hertzberg said in a statement. Streaming services like Hulu and Spotify and the file-sharing site Dropbox have elicited lawsuits and consumer complaints about their automatic service renewals, according to Hertzbergs statement. The law goes into effect in July. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Heres why Californias early primary in 2020 is destined to pick the next president. (Nah, not really) By Mark Z. Barabak (Harry Chase / Los Angeles Times) Today we answer questions. Woo-hoo! Now that Gov. Jerry Brown has signed the bill, it looks like California is moving up its 2020 presidential primary. Finally! Uh. No more watching from the sidelines as small-fry states like Iowa and New Hampshire throw their weight around. Um. Im already fluffing pillows and prepping the guestroom for all the 2020 hopefuls wholl be camped out. Er. What? You dont seem too excited. Look, it would be great if California voted in a truly meaningful presidential primary. Its been about 50 years since that happened. But its about as likely in 2020 as President Trump dumping Vice President Pence and running for reelection on a unity ticket with Hillary Clinton. How can that be? Lots of reasons, both political and practical. Do tell. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Poll: Californians like Obamacare more than ever but are divided on single-payer healthcare By Melanie Mason Members of the California Nurses Assn. and other supporters rally at the state Capitol for a single-payer health plan June 28. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) As the latest attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act fizzles, the law has reached its highest popularity in California in four years, according to a new poll released Wednesday by the Public Policy Institute of California. Nearly 60% of the Californians hold a generally favorable view of the healthcare law, and just over a third of Californians see it unfavorably  the highest approval rating since PPIC began tracking the laws popularity in 2013. But while Democrats and independents back the law, known as Obamacare, with strong majorities, three-quarters of Republicans have negative views of it. Only 18% of Californians believe congressional Republicans should try again to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, and 58% of adults want to see bipartisan efforts to improve the law. Underscoring the GOPs challenge in dramatically reducing governments role in healthcare, two-thirds of the states adults believe it is the federal governments responsibility to ensure that all Americans have health coverage. But Californians are divided on whether to substantially increase government involvement through a single-payer system, such as the Medicare for All proposal recently introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont). A national single-payer insurance program such as Medicare for All gets support from 35% of Californians, according to the poll. Support is higher among Democrats  44%  and independents  34%  than among Republicans. Only 6% of Republicans back such a system. But the current system, a patchwork of government and private insurance options, isnt particularly adored by Californians. Just under 30% of adults support continuing with a mix of private and public insurance options, while 36% of Democrats, 21% of Republicans and 31% of independents see that mixed system as the best way to provide health coverage. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Half of Californias likely voters think Sen. Dianne Feinstein should retire, poll finds By Phil Willon (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) As Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein contemplates a 2018 bid for reelection, a new poll has found that 50% of Californias likely voters think she shouldnt run again. Just 43% of likely voters support Feinstein running for a sixth term, according to a Public Policy Institute of California poll released Wednesday. The results are similar among all California adults, not just likely voters, with 46% saying she should not run for another term and 41% saying she should run. Feinstein, 84, has come under increased pressure from members of Californias left, many of whom were infuriated when earlier this month she called for patience with President Trump and refused to back demands for his impeachment. Still, the poll found that Feinstein remains popular. More than half of likely voters  54%  approve of the job shes doing, compared with 38% who disapprove. Thats on par with Gov. Jerry Browns approval rating, and it bests the marks for Californias other Democratic senator, Kamala Harris. When likely voters were asked about Harris, the former state attorney general elected to the Senate in November, 47% approved of the job she was doing in Washington and 30% disapproved. Almost a quarter of voters didnt offer an opinion about Harris. The contrasting results on Feinstein are difficult to decipher but at the very least indicate voters remain restless. Partly, this is a holdover from last years election in which you saw many Democrats wanting a more liberal alternative at the presidential level and you saw many independents wanting an outsider, said Mark Baldassare, president of Public Policy Institute of California. As people are looking to next year, theres a desire for something new. Speculation continues that Feinstein may face a Democratic challenger. Among those who have been mentioned is state Senate leader Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles), who is weighing his next political move after he terms out of office in 2018. De Leon lashed out at Feinstein after her comments about Trump in early September. In her last election, Feinstein trounced her Republican opponent, Elizabeth Emken, by a 25-percentage-point margin in 2012. She won by almost an identical margin in 2006 when challenged by former Republican state Sen. Richard Mountjoy. However, California has since switched to a top-two primary system. The two candidates who receive the most voters in the June primary election will advance to the 2018 general election, regardless of their party. Two Democrats faced off in the finale of Californias 2016 U.S. Senate election, with Harris besting then-Rep. Loretta Sanchez. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Barbara Boxer says if Sen. Dianne Feinstein runs for another term, she should expect a tough race By Mina Corpuz Former Sen. Barbara Boxer (Mina Corpuz / Los Angeles Times ) Its one of the hottest political parlor games in California right now: Will she run again? Everyone is waiting for Sen. Dianne Feinstein to announce if shell seek a sixth term. And even though they served as colleagues in Washington for more than two decades, former Sen. Barbara Boxer said she has no inside intel on what Feinstein will do in 2018. I believe she is running until I see any other indication, Boxer said Wednesday at a Sacramento Press Club lunch. Every single race is hard.... Anyone who runs against her will give her a tough race. Feinstein, 84, has made clear she is taking her time, even as ambitious politicians eye the seat she has held since 1992. One long-shot Democrat already is raising money for the race, and Feinstein recently drew criticism from California Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, who has not ruled out a primary challenge against her. Boxer said Wednesday her own priority for next years midterm election is flipping several Republican-held House seats in Southern California. Theres no such thing as an off election year, she said. Its an on year. Much of this work will be done through the political action committee Boxer founded, PAC for a Change. The organization also supports electing more Democrats to the Senate and standing up to President Trumps policies, she said. Since leaving the Senate in January, Boxer has also given speeches and promoted her book, The Art of Tough. She doesnt like to consider herself a retiree. Boxer also skirted a question about her pick for governor in a race that already is crowded with several Democrats. All of the candidates, she joked, are like my sons and daughters. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Californias top elections officer now says his agencys website wasnt the one scanned by Russian hackers By John Myers Secretary of State Alex Padilla (John Myers / Los Angeles Times) Five days after saying he had been told Russian hackers scanned the states main elections website for weaknesses in 2016, California Secretary of State Alex Padilla said Wednesday that it turns out it didnt actually happen that way. Padilla said that his office was given incorrect information by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and that the Russian operation was instead focused on scanning the network of the state Department of Technology. Our notification from DHS last Friday was not only a year late, it also turned out to be bad information, Padilla said in a statement. Bryce Brown, a spokesman for the states information technology agency, said officials had long known about suspect activity that occurred on our network last summer but didnt know anything else until the notification from federal officials. Although we did not have knowledge of the source until now, we have confirmed our security systems worked as planned and the activity was blocked as it happened in 2016, he said. The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday, the Associated Press reported that federal officials also reversed course in a notification they had made to Wisconsin elections officials about Russian activity. In June, federal officials told Congress that 21 states elections systems were targeted by Russian activity. Padilla insisted last week that the scanning incident found no vulnerabilities or access to any California voter information, and he criticized DHS officials for the delay in sharing information about 2016 activities. On Wednesday, he said hopes that federal officials will continue to work with the states in preventing cyberattacks. I remain committed to a partnership with DHS and other intelligence agencies; however, elections officials and the American public expect and deserve timely and accurate information, Padilla said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Hollywood tour buses could get more rules slapped on them under the law Gov. Jerry Brown just signed By Patrick McGreevy A tour bus passes the late Carrie Fishers gated home in Beverly Hills. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times) Gov. Jerry Brown on Wednesday signed legislation aimed at reining in the proliferation of tour buses offering to take fans to the homes and gathering spots of celebrities in Hollywood and other trendy neighborhoods. The measure allows cities and counties to adopt rules that restrict the routes or streets used by the tour buses, and prohibit the use of loudspeakers on open-topped buses and vans. Assemblyman Adrin Nazarian (D-Sherman Oaks) introduced the proposal in response to a report by NBC Los Angeles that found some tour buses were operating unsafely without proper permits. He also cited complaints about topless buses on narrow streets of the Hollywood Hills, Malibu and Bel-Air. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Latino state lawmakers back Antonio Villaraigosa for California governor By Phil Willon Antonio Villaraigosa gives a pep talk in Los Angeles at Cathedral High School, where he once was also a student. ((Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) The Legislatures California Latino Caucus on Wednesday endorsed former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa for governor. While expected, the nod from the politically influential caucus is a boon for Villaraigosa, a former Democratic Assembly speaker and the only major Latino candidate running for governor. Villaraigosa has lagged behind Lt. Gov. Gavin Newson in early polls and fundraising. As Assembly speaker and Los Angeles mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa worked to strengthen our economy, expand our healthcare, improve our schools and invest in strategic infrastructure projects that create middle-class jobs, Sen. Ben Hueso (D-San Diego), chair of the caucus, said in a statement Wednesday morning. An intriguing aspect of the endorsement is that one of the most prominent members of the California Latino Caucus is Senate leader Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles). In Sacramento, speculation abounds over whether De Leon may run for governor, and the Villaraigosa endorsement could indicate De Leon has other plans for his political future. Villaraigosa joins a slate of other Latino statewide candidates endorsed by the caucus: Sen. Ed Hernandez (D-Azusa) for lieutenant governor; current appointee Xavier Becerra for attorney general; incumbent Alex Padilla for secretary of state; Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) for insurance commissioner; and Assemblyman Tony Thurmond (D-Richmond) for superintendent of public instruction. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California is trying to educate people about marijuana before recreational sales start By Patrick McGreevy Months before California allows the sale of marijuana for recreational use, the state has launched an education campaign about the drug, including highlighting the potential harms of cannabis for minors and pregnant women. The state is scheduled to issue licenses starting Jan. 2 for growing and selling marijuana for recreational use, expanding a program that currently allows cannabis use for medical purposes. In response, the California Department of Public Health has created a website to educate Californians about the drug and its impacts, including how to purchase and safely store cannabis. We are committed to providing Californians with science-based information to ensure safe and informed choices, said State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith. The website, Lets Talk Cannabis, notes it is illegal for people under 21 to buy marijuana for non-medical use and warns that using cannabis regularly in your teens and early 20s may lead to physical changes in your brain. The site also warns that marijuana edibles may have higher concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. If you eat too much, too fast you are at higher risk for poisoning, the website warns. The state urges parents and guardians to talk to their teenagers about legal and health issues surrounding marijuana use. The state officials also say consuming cannabis is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who plan to become pregnant soon, noting that it can affect the health of your baby. The website got good marks from legalization activist Ellen Komp, deputy director of Californias chapter of National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. The website is fairly accurate, she said, but added, The risks with pregnancy are somewhat overstated, telling women they should not use cannabis for nausea or even if they are thinking of getting pregnant. Some 43% of Californians have used marijuana for recreational purposes and 54% said they have not, according to a USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll last November. Among those who have not used it, just 2% said they are much more likely to use it if Proposition 64 passed, which it did, while 5% said they are somewhat more likely to use it, and 89% said they are no more likely to smoke pot if it was legalized. Other advice from the states site: driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and increases the chance of a car accident, and cannabis should be stored in a locked area to avoid poisoning children and pets. Updated at 11:30 am to include data from poll on marijuana use. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Todays newsletter: Republicans fail again to repeal Obamacare By John Myers Todays Essential Politics newsletter details the last gasp of the Republican efforts in Washington to repeal the Affordable Care Act, efforts that President Trump insisted on Tuesday arent over. We also take a look at the win by Roy Moore, a former chief justice of the Alabama Supreme Court, in a Senate runoff that saw the president back the losing candidate. And weve got the details of what happens if Gov. Jerry Brown, as expected, signs the sanctuary state bill into law. The newsletter comes out Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Are you a subscriber? Sign up below. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

After meeting with Trump, California Democrats say they want a seat at the tax reform table By Sarah D. Wire Ahead of Republicans plans to unveil a more detailed overview of their tax reform plan Wednesday, President Trump sat down with a bipartisan group of members that included California Democratic Reps. Linda Sanchez and Mike Thompson. Sanchez, of Whittier, who serves on the House committee that has authority over tax legislation, said members didnt learn much about the details of the plan Tuesday. There were kind of generalities but no specificity, which is why were interested to see what they put out tomorrow, because clearly its not something thats had Democratic input, Sanchez said. According to a White House transcript of part of the meeting, Trump said the plan is focused on making the tax code simple and fair, increasing the deduction most families can take, lowering the business tax rate and bringing wealth stored overseas back to the United States. Thompson, of St. Helena, said the president listened to what Democrats had to say, but he didnt get the impression that the policy plan would change before it becomes public Wednesday. I dont think it was that kind of meeting. We all agreed we wanted a fair, easy-to-work-with tax code that generates more jobs, said Thompson, who is also on the committee. He said repeatedly he wants to be successful. Republicans are set to unveil a consensus document Wednesday they say will be a much more detailed overview than previous tax policy papers theyve released. But it is not expected to be an actual plan or bill. Republicans will huddle with Vice President Mike Pence for half of Wednesday to discuss tax reform. Democrats are holding their own tax reform forum too. Its been 30 years since Congress has passed a major tax overhaul, and Republican leaders have set an ambitious timeline for passing a tax-reform measure, indicating they want to get it to Trumps desk by the end of the year. Sanchez said she tried to stress in the meeting that Democrats should play a role in writing the final bill. There wasnt discussion about the group sitting down with Trump again, she said. The president was very pleased that it was a bipartisan effort, which sort of confused me because that was the first meeting where there were members of the Democratic side of the Ways and Means Committee there, Sanchez said. I dont know if theyve been telling him that the process is bipartisan or if he knew it wasnt bipartisan but didnt care, but I thought that was kind of odd. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Judge rewrites summary of proposed gas tax repeal initiative, saying it was fundamentally flawed By Patrick McGreevy A Chevron gas station in Sacramento shows prices in February. ( (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) A judge on Monday rewrote the title and summary for a proposed initiative that would repeal recent gas tax increases in California. He rejected a title and summary written by the state attorney generals office as fundamentally flawed. Sacramento Superior Court Judge Timothy M. Frawley criticized the attorney generals office for not mentioning in the title that the ballot measure would repeal newly approved taxes or fees. This is not a situation where reasonable minds may differ, Frawley wrote in his ruling. The Attorney Generals title and summary ... must be changed to avoid misleading the voters and creating prejudice against the measure. The initiative proposed by Assemblyman Travis Allen (R-Huntington Beach) would repeal a bill approved in April by the Legislature and governor that would raise the gas tax by 12 cents per gallon and increase vehicle fees in order to generate $5.2 billion for road repairs and to improve mass transit. The title and summary will be placed on petitions to be circulated by those trying to qualify the measure for the November 2018 ballot. The title and summary are also placed on the ballot if enough signatures are collected. The original title written by Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerras office was: Eliminates recently enacted road repair and transportation funding by repealing revenues dedicated for those purposes. Allens attorneys argued the voter could read that to mean that the Legislature identified existing funds for transportation and the initiative would take those funds away. The judges title says: Repeals recently enacted gas and diesel taxes and vehicle registration fees. Eliminates road repair and transportation programs funded by these taxes and fees. The judge also made it clear in the summary that an Independent Office of Audits and Investigations that would be eliminated by the initiative is newly established. Representatives of the attorney generals office were not immediately available to comment on whether the ruling would be appealed. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Democrats to try to force vote on Dream Act with rarely successful procedural move By Sarah D. Wire House Democrats are trying to force a vote on Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allards version of the Dream Act, they announced in a news conference Monday. The House and Senate have less than six months to address the legal status of people brought into the country illegally as children before the program protecting them from deportation ends in March. In the weeks since President Trump announced he was ending the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, Democrats have pushed for a quick vote on Roybal-Allards bill, which is backed by every House Democrat and four Republicans. There are also a handful of other Republican-sponsored bills that could be considered. To force a vote, Democrats would need a majority of the House  218 members  to sign whats called a discharge petition to pull the bill from the House Judiciary Committee and bring it to the House floor. Roybal-Allard, a Democrat from Downey, said she believes there is enough support to pass the bill if Democrats can get it to the House floor. Democratic leaders said they expect all House Democrats will sign the petition. The American people overwhelmingly oppose deporting our Dreamers, Roybal-Allard said. But the Republican leadership is ignoring the wishes of a majority of the American people. Democrats hold only 194 seats, and would have to convince 24 Republicans to buck their party leaders and sign the petition. House leaders control which bills come to the floor for a vote and when. Although discharge petitions have been used in the past to shame congressional leadership into letting a bill move forward, the procedural move is rarely successful. This month, Republican Rep. Mike Coffman of Colorado filed a discharge petition for the Bridge Act, a Republican- sponsored bill to address the legal status of people brought to the country illegally as children. Five members of Congress had signed on as of Monday. FOR THE RECORD Sept 26, 12:38 p.m.: An earlier version of this post identified the member of Congress who filed a discharge petition for the Bridge Act as Rep. Mike Thompson. It was Rep. Mike Coffman. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California lawmakers grant some megaprojects relief from environmental law, but not others By Liam Dillon Developers plan to build two skyscrapers near the Capitol Records building in Hollywood. (Reed Saxon / Associated Press) When professional sports team owners, Facebook and big developers have asked California lawmakers for some relief from the states main environmental law over growth, the answer usually has been yes. The law, the California Environmental Quality Act, requires developers to disclose and reduce a projects effects on the environment  a process that often can get tied up in lengthy litigation. This year, legislators passed a measure aiming to shorten any potential environmental lawsuit against Facebooks expansion of its headquarters, two skyscrapers planned in Hollywood and other megaprojects to less than nine months. Doing so has led many to question why only big projects get such relief. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

The fate of Californias biggest campaign donor disclosure bill may hinge on some small details By John Myers Members of the California Fair Political Practices Commission. (Rich Pedroncelli/AP) You wouldnt expect to see the leader of Californias campaign watchdog agency rooting for Gov. Jerry Brown to veto sweeping new disclosure rules for political donors. And yet, thats where things stand in a seven-year debate over helping voters follow the money. I think we can do better than this bill, said Jodi Remke, chair of the California Fair Political Practices Commission. Remke and her staff have raised a red flag about the fine print tucked inside Assembly Bill 249, the California Disclose Act, that rewrites rules for campaign contributions that are earmarked. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Oceanside lifeguard receives Californias highest public safety honor By Mina Corpuz Medal of Valor recipient David Wilson stands with his parents, a family friend, Gov. Jerry Brown and Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra. (Mina Corpuz / Los Angeles Times ) An Oceanside Fire Department officer who risked his life to save a boater received the states highest award for public safety officers on Monday. Gov. Jerry Brown and Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra presented David Wilson with the Public Safety Medal of Valor at a ceremony at the state Capitol. In July 2016, Wilson rescued a man whose boat crashed into a jetty in Oceanside Harbor. The victim was barely conscious and jammed between two rocks. With only a short window between each set of waves, Wilson dove underneath the water and swam into the boulders to free the victims legs. You earned it, Brown said at the ceremony. You were assaulted by the waves and the rocks, and you went ahead anyways. Thats why you are the only one getting a medal of honor. A review board made up of law enforcement officers reviewed 21 nominations for the Medal of Valor. The award is given out once a year. There can be more than one recipient, but this year Brown chose one. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

7.5 million Californians could lose coverage under latest Obamacare repeal effort, state health insurance exchange says By Melanie Mason Peter V. Lee, executive director of Covered California, the states health insurance exchange, in 2013. (Rich Pedroncelli / AP) Californians who get their health coverage on the individual market could face dire consequences under the current Republican effort to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, warned a new analysis released Monday by Covered California, the states health insurance exchange. Under the latest plan, which is being led by Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.), 7.5 million Californians could lose their health insurance by 2027, the analysis said. It also said the repeal could trigger a collapse of the states individual insurance market. The Graham-Cassidy plan takes resources away from California and from the majority of states, which means that far fewer Americans would have insurance or the existing protections from insurers, said Peter V. Lee, executive director of Covered California, in a statement. The effect on California would be devastating, and lead not only to there being more uninsured people than there were before the Affordable Care Act, but would also cause huge negative impacts on the health care delivery system, the economy and on those with employer-based coverage, Lee said. The report comes on the heels of another grim analysis by Gov. Jerry Browns administration, which estimated that the Senate proposal would strip California of nearly $139 billion in federal funds from 2020 to 2027. The Covered California report looked at two different scenarios for how state officials could respond to such a slash in federal dollars. If the state chose to prioritize protecting Medi-Cal, which provides coverage for low-income Californians, the analysis projects the collapse of the individual insurance market by 2021. If officials chose to direct attention to the individual market by stepping in to cover subsidies now paid for by the federal government, that could lead to large reductions in the Medi-Cal program. In both scenarios, the result would be up to 7.5 million fewer Californians with health insurance, according to the report. Proponents claim Graham-Cassidy gives states flexibility and choice, but in reality it puts states into a lose-lose situation, Lee said. Under this plan, California and states across the nation would be forced to either turn their backs on their most needy residents, or let the individual market be destroyed. Either way, millions lose coverage. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Todays newsletter: Sports spat starts with California teams By Christina Bellantoni Todays Essential Politics newsletter details President Trumps sports spat, which originated with California teams before becoming national political drama on football fields across America. It also notes last falls USC/Los Angeles Times poll, which found huge partisan divisions in how California voters viewed Colin Kaepernick at the time. Democrats liked him more, while he had just 6% favorability among tea party Republicans here. The state was evenly divided on whether to support his protest during the national anthem. The newsletter comes out Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Are you a subscriber? Sign up below. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Attorney running against Sen. Dianne Feinstein is hosting Hollywood fundraiser By Christine Mai-Duc Pat Harris may be a long-shot candidate for U.S. Senate, but hes not fundraising like one. On Monday Harris, a Democrat challenging Sen. Dianne Feinstein, is set to tread territory familiar to many prominent statewide candidates looking for cash: the Hollywood fundraiser. The event is to be held at the Catalina Jazz Club on Sunset Boulevard and is being billed as a CD release party for Carol Welman, a jazz musician and Harris wife. Tickets range from $150 for a single ticket to $2,700 for a VIP dinner for two. (An email to Welmans subscriber list earlier this week advertised tickets for as little as $30). Harris announced that he was running last month on a platform that includes support for single-payer healthcare and a pledge that he will only take campaign donations from individuals. Facing pressure from progressive activists, Feinstein has been coy so far about whether shell retire or run again in 2018. Either way, shes stockpiled $3.5 million in her campaign war chest. As of June 30, Harris had raised no money except for $104,685 he loaned his own campaign. Three other candidates have also filed to run against Feinstein: Democrats Steve Stokes and David Hildebrand, and independent Jerry Carroll. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Rep. Keith Ellison headlines dinner for Orange County Democrats, who declare orange is the new blue By Christine Mai-Duc The focus was on 2018 as Orange County Democrats gathered Saturday night in Costa Mesa to bask in their high hopes here. Headliner and deputy chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota, urged unity as dozens of Democrats navigate crowded primaries throughout the state. Ellison getting star treatment tonight, speaking to VIP attendees & meeting congressional candidates & gubernatorial hopeful @DelaineEastin pic.twitter.com/2Bh8K5H1Qu  Christine Mai-Duc (@cmaiduc) September 24, 2017 Much of focus tonight on flipping 4 GOP congressional seats in OC. Ellison: "We need 24 more seats...I figure 4 of em we can get right here" pic.twitter.com/CDDbGWpNnT  Christine Mai-Duc (@cmaiduc) September 24, 2017 The theme of the annual awards dinner was Orange is the New Blue, a twist on the title of a popular Netflix show and the latest indication of Democrats rosy outlook as they try to flip the countys four GOP-held House seats next year. Ellison told the crowd it was not the proper role of the DNC to choose among the many primary contenders. But you will sort it out running spirited campaigns, you will sort it out over ideas, and when it is over we need you to hold hands and support the Democrat. Ellison pushed for a return to grass-roots organizing and outreach to voters of all stripes  and not just during election years. We cannot come a month before the election, tell them ... Come vote for us, Ellison said. Weve got to be in their lives in a physical, palpable way. Then we do have to have the right words, we do have to stand up for them. Ellison on more permanent solution for DACA: no wall, no increase in detention beds "but there might be some other things" Dems can agree to pic.twitter.com/yrmOGfXYan  Christine Mai-Duc (@cmaiduc) September 24, 2017 In an interview, Ellison also stressed the need to pass legislation for young people brought to the country illegally who were allowed to stay and work under the Obama Administrations Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Ellison said Democrats are open to negotiating certain immigration enforcement provisions in order pass a replacement for DACA, which President Trump announced he will end in March. But he said Democrats wont acquiesce to Trumps demand for a border wall or allow additional capacity for immigration detentions. There are certain things that are simply not on the table  the wall or more detention beds, were just not doing that, he said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Russians tried to find weaknesses in Californias election website last year, say state officials By John Myers Secretary of State Alex Padilla (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Californias chief elections officer said U.S. government officials believe Russian hackers tried to find weaknesses in the states election website during the 2016 campaign, but that theres no evidence their effort was successful. Secretary of State Alex Padilla said the Department of Homeland Security only told him on Friday of last years attempt. He described the attack as a scanning of the states website in hopes of finding weaknesses in its computer network. Our office actively monitors scanning activity as part of our routine cybersecurity protocols, Padilla said in a statement. We have no information or evidence that our systems have been breached in any way or that any voter information was compromised. Those involved were Russian cyber actors according to Padillas description of information he received from federal officials. In June, a top federal official told the Senate Intelligence Committee that systems in 21 states were believed to have been scoured by cyberattackers. The election website, www.sos.ca.gov, contains public information about voting procedures as well as data on past election results and current issues. More sensitive data, including the electronic files of some 17 million registered voters, are not included on the website. A leaked National Security Agency document earlier this year outlined a Russian effort to hack into devices made by a Florida-based voting software company. One California county, Humboldt, used the companys software, but did not find any evidence of tampering. Padilla, a frequent critic of President Trumps special panel investigating the potential of voter fraud, said federal officials should have notified him much earlier of the attempted breach. The practice of withholding critical information from elections officials is a detriment to the security of our elections and our democracy, he said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Antonio Villaraigosa jabs at Gavin Newsom over his apparent embrace of single-payer healthcare bill By Melanie Mason Supporters of a measure to establish single-payer healthcare in California were thrilled by Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsoms embrace of their bill on Friday, but a rival gubernatorial campaign was less impressed with his position. A spokesman for former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa accused the lieutenant governor of flip-flopping because after Newsom was asked if he explicitly endorsed the legislation  Senate Bill 562  he responded that he endorsed getting this debate going again. This is an outrageous parsing of words when millions of people are at risk of losing their healthcare, Villaraigosa spokesman Luis Vizcaino said in a statement. It is a yes or no question, lieutenant governor. Are you for SB 562 or not? The nurses and California voters deserve the truth, Vizcaino added. The question of backing SB 562 is thorny since it was shelved earlier this year after Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) called it woefully incomplete. Backers have said theyd be willing to make changes to the measure, but the contours of those proposed changes have not been made public. Vizcaino said Villaraigosa has always supported universal healthcare and the concept of single payer, but agreed with Speaker Rendon that the bill couldnt be sent to the governor without a funding plan. Speaking to reporters, Newsom said he saw a single-payer system in which the government covers healthcare costs as the best way to achieve universal coverage and said he would be actively engaged in designing and developing it if SB 562 does not pass next year. RoseAnn DeMoro, executive director of the California Nurses Assn./National Nurses United, said she saw Newsoms remarks as a clear endorsement of their measure and a stance she said was not surprising. We always knew Gavin would support our bill, DeMoro said. She lambasted Villaraigosa  who does not support SB 562  for criticizing Newsom, whom her group endorsed nearly two years ago. I want Villaraigosa to explain to the Latino community why he doesnt think they should have ... comprehensive healthcare, she said. Villaraigosas being disingenuous. He knows better. Hes just politically posturing trying to find a wedge issue and he knows better. UPDATE 4:32 p.m.: This post was updated with an additional statement from Villaraigosas spokesperson on the former L.A. mayors support for universal healthcare. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

In San Francisco, Bernie Sanders plays two roles: Obamacare defender and single-payer advocate By Melanie Mason View Twitter post Sen. Bernie Sanders headed west to drum up support for his recently unveiled Medicare for All proposal Friday, but first trained his sights on the Obamacare repeal bill currently gripping Congress. Sanders (I-Vt.), whose speech was the cornerstone of a California Nurses Assn. gathering in San Francisco, blasted the Republican plan led by Sens. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina as horrific legislation. How cruel, how immoral it is, to say to those millions of Americans, we are going to take away that health insurance that keeps you alive, Sanders said. Sen. John McCain announced on Friday he could not support the measure, dealing the GOP plan a blow. Sanders thanked McCain for his stance, prompting the liberal crowd to cheer the Arizona Republican. Some Democrats had worried that Sanders push for his single-payer plan could distract from efforts to oppose the repeal bill. But the senator was explicit in his appeal to the approximately 2,000 supporters in attendance to focus their energy on defeating the repeal measure. Our job is to continue to make sure the Republicans do not get the 50 votes they need ... I beg of you, please, do everything you can to stop the bill, he said. Still, the crux of Sanders speech focused on his single-payer bill, which he sold as an improvement over the status quo. The Affordable Care Act, as we all know, made significant improvements to our healthcare system, Sanders said, citing the expansion of the number of Americans with health insurance and the ban on insurance companies ability to deny coverage to people with preexisting conditions. But we must be honest and acknowledge that with all the gains of the Affordable Care Act, it does not go far enough, he added. The bill expands the Medicare program to cover the healthcare costs of all Americans with no out-of-pocket payments for patients. The measure does not include a plan to finance such a system, but Sanders has released a report laying out various ways to cover the costs, including a progressive income tax. During his pitch, Sanders said the implications extended beyond health policy. It is a struggle about what this great nation stands for, Sanders said. It is a struggle about whether or not every working person in this country has healthcare as a right or whether we allow insurance companies and drug companies to continue to rip us off. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Gas tax foes win victory as they try to get a repeal on November 2018 ballot By Patrick McGreevy A Chevron gas station in Sacramento shows prices in February. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) In a rare court rebuke of the state Attorney Generals Office, a judge said Friday that the title and summary written for a proposed initiative is misleading  and that hed do a rewrite himself to make it clear the measure would repeal recently approved increases to gas taxes and vehicle fees. Sacramento Superior Court Judge Timothy M. Frawley said he would draft a new title and summary to be placed on petitions for the initiative after attorneys for the state and proponents of the ballot measure could not agree on compromise language. In this circumstance, I honestly believe that the circulated title and summary that has been prepared is misleading, Frawley told attorneys during a court hearing Friday. He hopes to release the new title and summary by Monday. The initiative proposed by Assemblyman Travis Allen (R-Huntington Beach) would repeal a bill approved in April by the Legislature and governor that would raise the gas tax by 12 cents per gallon and increase vehicle fees to generate $5.2 billion annually to fix the states roads and bridges and improve mass transit. Allen and his attorneys said the state attorney general sought to confuse voters with a title that does not use the words taxes or fees. The title was proposed to say: Eliminates recently enacted road repair and transportation funding by repealing revenues dedicated for those purposes. Allen, who is running for governor in 2018, said the court decision showed the attorney general was trying to sway voters against the initiative. Justice is being served for the voters of California, Allen said after the court hearing. I think that he [the judge] has properly seen that the attorney general has tried to intentionally mislead the voters of California because he has tried to prejudice their vote and tried to keep increased taxes for Californians. A coalition of business, labor and government officials called Fix Our Roads, which supports the gas tax legislation, had representatives in the courtroom who later criticized Allen for seeking political gain at the expense of California motorists. This is more about Travis Allens gubernatorial race than anything else, said coalition spokeswoman Kathy Fairbanks. Hes condemning voters to driving on potholed roads and being stuck in traffic. Allen said the initiative and his campaign for governor are both aimed at giving voters power to fight higher taxes. Finally ordinary Californians are understanding that they actually can hold Sacramento accountable, Allen said. This is why Im running to be the next governor of California, because for too long Sacramento has been run by out-of-touch elitists that are coming from Sacramento and the Bay Area of San Francisco. A second initiative to repeal the gas tax has been proposed by a different group of Republican activists. Allen said he supports the second initiative but noted it has to collect many more signatures because it seeks to change the state constitution. It has a long way to go, Allen said. If the judge issues a new title and summary Monday, Allen said the petitions will hit the streets immediately and he is confident they will get the 365,880 signatures to qualify the measure for the November 2018 ballot. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

We will have universal healthcare in the state of California, Gavin Newsom promises single-payer advocates By Melanie Mason View Twitter post Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom has made his most explicit endorsement yet of a controversial single-payer healthcare proposal that has roiled Democratic politics in California. Newsom appeared Friday before the California Nurses Assn., the most ardent backers of SB 562, a stalled bill to establish a system in which the state would cover all residents healthcare costs. Theres no reason to wait around on universal healthcare and single-payer in California, Newsom said. Its time to move 562. Its time to get it out of committee. The line prompted cheers and a standing ovation from the audience of about 1,500 members of the nurses union. He capped off his remarks with a promise: If we cant get it done next year, you have my firm and absolute commitment as your next governor that I will lead the effort to get it done. We will have universal healthcare in the state of California. Enthusiastic nurses in the room heard an unequivocal backing of their effort to push forward with the bill. When he says hes going to get this done, he means, seriously, that he will pass SB 562 and make sure that there is healthcare for all Californians, said Catherine Kennedy, a neonatal nurse from Roseville. But speaking to reporters after his address, Newsom was less clear in embracing the specifics of the proposal. I 100% support moving this process along, getting this debate going again and addressing the concerns, the open-ended issues that the nurses themselves have acknowledged as it relates to the need of going through the legislative process and to fill in the blanks on the financing plan, among other issues, he said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

President Obama appears in an Assembly race mailer in California  but read it closely By Christina Bellantoni The race to replace Jimmy Gomez, who was elected to Congress earlier this year, has so far been waged by mail and door-knocking in northeast Los Angeles. Most of the mailers feature local leaders and endorsements from groups including Planned Parenthood and the Sierra Club. But one mailer that arrived in my mailbox Thursday has a much more familiar face  former President Barack Obama. While it might seem like one to the casual voter sorting through junk mail, this isnt an endorsement. Want to know what kind of job Gabriel Sandoval will do in the Assembly? Listen to the people hes worked with in the past, the mailer reads, above Obamas official White House portrait. In small type, it notes that Sandoval served as a Senior Civil Rights Attorney and Senior Advisor for a White House initiative within the Department of Education. It features a glowing quote over an image of a July 12, 2013, letter from the president to Sandoval written on White House letterhead. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Healthcare a hot issue in race for California governor By Phil Willon Antonio Villaraigosa, left, and Gavin Newsom (Brendan Smialowski / AFP/Getty Images; Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) With the hyperpartisan politics surrounding healthcare stirred up by efforts to repeal Obamacare and calls for a single-payer system, both Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Los Angeles Antonio Villaraigosa are claiming the mantle of healthcare visionary. On the campaign trail the two Democratic candidates for governor are touting their signature healthcare accomplishments from earlier in their political careers as their bona fides. For Newsom, its about Healthy San Francisco, the nations first municipal universal healthcare program, approved while he was mayor; and for Villaraigosa, its Healthy Families, which provided healthcare coverage to the children of Californias working poor, legislation he authored as a California assemblyman. But do they deserve all the credit? It sure doesnt look that way. Healthy San Francisco is one of the many topics Newsom is expected to highlight when he speaks to the California Nurses Assn. convention in the Bay Area on Friday morning. On Thursday night, Newsom took a shot at the latest Republican effort in Washington to roll back the Affordable Care Act  a bill written by Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) The numbers on this make my skin crawl. Under Graham-Cassidy, an individual with metastatic cancer could see their premiums increase by $142,650. Diabetes? $5,600. Want to tackle the opioid crisis? Gets a lot tougher if an individual suffering from drug dependence sees their premiums go up by $20,450, Newsom said in an email sent out by his campaign. This is not a game. Lives are at stake. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Rep. Duncan Hunter calls for preemptive strike against North Korea By Joshua Stewart, San Diego Union-Tribune Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Alpine) introduces U.S. Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions at a news conference. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune) Rep. Duncan Hunter said that the United States needs to launch a preemptive strike against North Korea in order to prevent the rogue nation from harming the U.S. first. You could assume, right now, that we have a nuclear missile aimed at the United States, and here in San Diego. Why would they not aim here, at Hawaii, Guam, our major naval bases? Hunter, an Alpine Republican, said Thursday during an appearance on San Diego television station KUSI. The question is, do you wait for one of those? Or two? Do you preemptively strike them? And thats what the president has to wrestle with. I would preemptively strike them. You could call it declaring war, call it whatever you want, Hunter continued. Hunter, a member of a House Armed Services Committee and the subcommittee with jurisdiction over the United States nuclear arsenal, did not say whether the military should strike North Korea with conventional or nuclear weapons. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Will Bernie Sanders push for Medicare for All help or hinder the California effort for single-payer? By Melanie Mason When Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders visited Beverly Hills last May, he made a full-throated appeal for California to lead the country and pass a pending state proposal to establish single-payer healthcare. On Friday, hell return to California for a San Francisco speech trumpeting his own higher-stakes plan  a bill to drastically overhaul the nations healthcare system by covering everyone through Medicare. The push for single-payer, in which the government pays for residents medical care, has already rattled Californias political landscape. Now, the Sanders measure brings an additional jolt, elevating the issue to a national debate that has implications for the future direction of the Democratic Party and early jockeying in the 2020 presidential race. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

What will Kevin de Leon do when his term in the California Senate expires next year? By Patrick McGreevy State Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, speaks during the last regular Senate floor session of the year. ( (Rich Pedroncelli / AP)) As he gaveled down what may be his last full year as leader of the California Senate on Saturday, Kevin de Leon had still not said what he planned to do next. Will he run for governor or U.S. Senate? Does he want to be mayor of Los Angeles some day? De Leon told reporters they will have to wait to find out. His advisors, supporters and political observers have their own ideas what De Leon could do next. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Skelton: The presidential election bills on Gov. Browns desk may be satisfying politics, but theyre risky ideas By George Skelton Two presidential election bills are on Gov. Jerry Browns desk, sent to him by the Democratic Legislature. Both should be tossed in the trash. No doubt Im in the minority on this. These bills do offer some fun, even if theyre flawed. One has strong pluses that are outweighed by unacceptable minuses. The second is a mean-spirited gotcha bill aimed at the Democrats No. 1 enemy: President Trump. It may be satisfying politics, but it sets a risky precedent. The first bill moves up Californias presidential primary from June to March. Great idea. But it also moves up the state primary along with it. A horrible idea. The second measure would require all presidential candidates to release their tax returns for the last five years. Anyone who refused wouldnt be allowed on the California ballot. Thats a sharp poke at Trump, who in 2016 was the first presidential candidate in 40 years not to release his taxes. Yes, watching Trump squirm would be entertaining. And maybe the tax information would be useful for some voters. But even if the disclosure requirement were constitutional  and theres substantial doubt about that  its a crummy precedent. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

California Senate leader preparing for legal fight over sanctuary state legislation By Sarah D. Wire California Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De Leon (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Gov. Jerry Brown hasnt yet signed legislation making California a so-called sanctuary state, but state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon is preparing to defend it in court. In between several immigration events in Washington on Wednesday, De Leon (D-Los Angeles) said he met with former U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr.  who has served as outside counsel to the Legislature for much of the year  to continue to further discuss inoculating California from [U.S. Atty. Gen.] Jeff Sessions Department of Justice. Passed early Saturday by the Legislature, the sanctuary state bill would limit state and local law enforcement communication with federal immigration authorities and prevent officers from questioning and holding people on immigration violations. Sessions has threatened to withhold some federal grant funds from cities and counties that refuse to assist federal immigration agents. Holder and other former Justice Department lawyers believe the bill is defendable, and if the Trump administration tries to compel California cities to act by withholding funds, it will find itself in court, De Leon said. Defenders of so-called sanctuary cities often rely on a 1996 Supreme Court ruling that cited the 10th Amendment and found the federal government cant compel local governments to cooperate with enforcing federal laws. It is immoral, and quite frankly un-American, that Americas top law enforcement official would withhold dollars that our local police officers need  precious dollars we need desperately to counter terrorism, to deal with the issue of human trafficking as well as international drug cartels, De Leon said. On Tuesday, Sessions urged Brown not to sign the bill, calling it unconscionable and a threat to public safety. Brown responded to Sessions comment on CNN by calling the legislation well-balanced. It protects public safety, but it also protects hardworking people who contribute a lot to California, Brown said. He has until Oct. 15 to sign the bill. De Leon also shot back against Sessions statement that the federal money isnt an entitlement, saying Californians pay more in federal taxes than they receive in federal funding. Thats not a gift or a grant from the Department of Justice to California. Those are our dollars; they belong to the people of California, he said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

California, with alliance of states, pledges to keep pushing climate policies despite lack of federal progress By Chris Megerian (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) California and a growing alliance of states committed to fighting global warming said Wednesday that theyre slashing greenhouse gas emissions at the rate required by the Paris climate agreement. However, the rest of the country would need to join their effort for the United States to actually hit the target of cutting emissions by at least 26% below 2005 levels by 2025. President Trump has pledged to pull the country out of the Paris deal, but the states reiterated their pledge to keep pressing forward during a news conference in New York. Were all in, California Gov. Jerry Brown said. Eventually, Washington will join with us. You cant deny science forever. Californias climate goal is even more ambitious than the Paris target. A law signed by Brown last year requires the state to cut emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. California became a founding member of the U.S. Climate Alliance, along with New York and Washington state, months ago. Either we end this problem, or this problem will end us, said New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo. On Wednesday, North Carolina became the 15th member of the U.S. Climate Alliance. Other members include Massachusetts, Oregon and Puerto Rico. Clean air and a healthy environment are vital for a strong economy and a healthier future, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a newly elected Democrat, said in a statement. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Bay Area cities sue major oil companies over climate change By Chris Megerian (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) San Francisco and Oakland are suing to get five oil companies, including San Ramon-based Chevron, to pay for the cost of protecting the Bay Area from rising sea levels and other effects of global warming. These fossil fuel companies profited handsomely for decades while knowing they were putting the fate of our cities at risk, San Francisco City Atty. Dennis Herrera said in a statement. The lawsuits, which were filed Tuesday in state court in San Francisco and Alameda counties and announced Wednesday, dont ask for a specific dollar amount. But the cities could try to put oil companies on the hook for billions. Long-term improvements in San Franciscos seawall are projected to cost $5 billion, according to one of the lawsuits. The law is clear that the defendants are responsible for the consequences of their reckless and disastrous actions, Oakland City Atty. Barbara J. Parker said in a statement. A spokesman for Chevron, Melissa Ritchie, said the lawsuits would not help address climate change. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a global issue that requires global engagement and action, she said in a statement. Should this litigation proceed, it will only serve special interests at the expense of broader policy, regulatory, and economic priorities. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California sues to stop Trumps border wall: No one gets to ignore the laws. Not even the president By Patrick McGreevy  California Attorney General Xavier Becerra announces lawsuit against Trump Administration. California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra filed a lawsuit Wednesday alleging that President Trumps proposal to expedite construction of a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border violates laws aimed at protecting the environment. Becerra announced the legal challenge standing in front of the existing border fencing at Border Field State Park near San Diego, saying the federal government failed to comply with federal environmental laws and relied on federal statutes that dont authorize border wall projects in San Diego and Imperial counties. No one gets to ignore the laws. Not even the president of the United States, Becerra said. The border between the U.S. and Mexico spans some 2,000 miles. The list of laws violated by the presidents administration in order to build his campaign wall is almost as long. He said the project involves the improper waiver of 37 federal statutes, many aimed at protecting the environment. Filed in federal court in San Diego and including the California Coastal Commission as a plaintiff, the lawsuit states its purpose is to protect the State of Californias residents, natural resources, economic interests, procedural rights, and sovereignty from violations of the United States Constitution and federal law. Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra at the U.S.- Mexico border where he announced lawsuit to stop a proposal for a border wall. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) The lawsuit also alleges that federal officials have not shown any data suggesting new border barriers in the San Diego area will reduce illegal entry into the U.S., nor that there is a significant problem in that area. It adds that the wall would have a chilling effect on tourism to the United States from Mexico. In August, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a notice that it was waiving federal and state laws on the environment to expedite the construction of prototypes of the wall along the San Diego border with Mexico. The California lawsuit claims the federal government violated the U.S. Constitutions separation-of-powers doctrine by vesting in the Executive Branch the power to waive state and local laws. The lawsuit also says the Department of Homeland Security decided to build the walls without complying with the Clean Water Act, the National Environmental Policy Act and the Coastal Zone Management Act. As a result, the lawsuit alleges, the federal government lacks proper environmental analysis of the impact of the 400-foot prototypes of the wall currently planned, as well as the 2,000-mile-long final wall. A federal official declined comment. As a matter of policy, we do not comment on pending litigation, said Tyler Q. Houlton, a spokesman for the Department of Homeland Security. State Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher (D-San Diego) stood with Becerra at the event, saying the wall is unnecessary and will put a barrier between relations involving the two countries. Maybe to people in Iowa, it sounds like a really good idea, she said. We dont need more structure. We need a good relationship [with Mexico]. Times staff writers McGreevy reported from Sacramento and Ulloa from San Diego. AG @XavierBecerra takes some shots at Trump: He hasn't made the transition from candidate to president. #borderwall pic.twitter.com/liSJdrAK2v  Jazmine Ulloa (@jazmineulloa) September 20, 2017 Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California to sue Trump administration over plan for U.S.-Mexico border wall By Patrick McGreevy California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra plans to announce a lawsuit Wednesday on behalf of the state that will challenge President Trumps proposal to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border, a project Becerra has called medieval. Becerra is scheduled to travel to Border Field State Park near San Diego to announce that a lawsuit is being filed in federal court over construction of border wall projects in San Diego and Imperial counties. The lawsuit, which includes the California Coastal Commission as a plaintiff, states its purpose is to protect the State of Californias residents, natural resources, economic interests, procedural rights, and sovereignty from violations of the United States Constitution and federal law. It adds that the wall would have a chilling effect on tourism to the United States from Mexico. The states lawsuit alleges that the Trump administration has failed to comply with federal and state environmental laws and relied on federal statutes that dont authorize the proposed projects. The brief alleges the federal government violated the U.S. Constitutions separation-of-powers doctrine by vesting in the Executive Branch the power to waive state and local laws, including state criminal law.. The lawsuit also says the Department of Homeland Security decided to build the walls without complying with the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. As a result, the lawsuit alleges, the federal government lacks proper environmental analysis of the impact of 400-foot prototypes of the wall currently planned, as well as the 2,000-mile-long final wall. The Democratic attorney general has been critical of the wall for months, including in April during an appearance on ABCs This Week. Im still trying to figure out who believes that a medieval situation to fix our broken immigration system is what we need, Becerra said. He also accused Trump at the time of reneging on his promise to have Mexico pay for the wall. I think American taxpayers probably are very much aligned with Mexico. None of them, whether its Mexico or our taxpayers, wants to pay for a medieval wall, he said. This is the latest of more than two dozen lawsuits and legal briefs filed against the Trump administration by Becerra, who was appointed attorney general in January and is running for election to the post next year. He previously sued to challenge Trumps plans to end a program that protects young immigrants from deportation, ban immigration from some countries and roll back environmental laws. Last week, three advocacy groups sued the federal government to block construction of a border wall, alleging that the Trump administration overstepped its authority by waiving environmental reviews and other laws. The action by the Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife and Animal Legal Defense Fund seeks to prevent construction of wall prototypes in San Diego. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials said last month that prototypes for a border wall may be completed by the end of October. Becerras lawsuit is the latest attempt by California Democrats to fight the wall proposal. A bill that would have banned state government contracts for any company that helps build the wall passed the state Senate, but stalled recently in an Assembly committee. Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) authored the bill, testifying at a committee hearing that the wall is another attempt to separate and divide us. It sends a message that we are better off in a homogenous society. Todd Bloomstine, a lobbyist representing the Southern California Contractors Assn., opposed the bill, asking the panel, What next unpopular project would be [on the] blacklist? Read the lawsuit >> UPDATE 8:30 a.m. This article was updated to provide additional details of the lawsuit. This article was originally published at 6 a.m. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Judge rules state used misleading language in summary of ballot measure to repeal California gas tax By Patrick McGreevy GOP Assemblyman Travis Allen, in red tie, with Democratic state Sen. Bob Hertzberg, left, and Charles Munger Jr., far right, in 2014. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) A judge tentatively ruled Tuesday that the state-written title and summary of an initiative to repeal the recent gas-tax increases were misleading and should be rewritten by the state attorney generals office. The ruling by Sacramento Superior Court Judge Timothy M. Frawley, scheduled to be finalized at a court hearing on Friday, was welcomed by the initiatives lead proponent, Assemblyman Travis Allen (R-Huntington Beach). This preliminary ruling is a major victory for Californians, Allen, a candidate for governor, said in a statement. This brings us one step closer to repealing Jerry Browns hugely unpopular gas tax. I look forward to the final ruling on Friday, and ensuring that the Repeal the Gas Tax Initiative receives the straightforward ballot title and summary that it deserves. Judge Frawley agreed with Allens legal claims that the title and summary drafted by Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerras office is confusing, misleading, and likely to create prejudice against the proposed measure. The judge said the initiative would repeal taxes and fees approved by the Legislature this year, but the title and summary issued by the state makes it sound like it would eliminate transportation funding without using the words taxes and fees in the title. He ordered state officials to come to Fridays hearing prepared to discuss alternate language for the ballot measure. To avoid misleading the voters and creating prejudice against the measure, the Attorney General must prepare a true and impartial statement that reasonably informs voters of the character and real purpose of the proposed initiative in clear and understandable language, the ruling says. The existing circulating title and summary fails this test. If the judge finalizes the order after hearing arguments Friday, Allen can use the new title and summary to circulate a petition. Allen needs to collect 365,000 signatures from registered voters in 150 days to put the measure on the November 2018 ballot. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Gov. Jerry Brown: Trumps rhetoric about North Korea adds to non-rational bluster By Mina Corpuz (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) California Gov. Jerry Brown said President Trumps name calling and threats at the United Nations can get in the way of diplomacy and statesmanship. Earlier Tuesday, Trump called North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a Rocket Man on a suicide mission and said the United States may have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea. It just raises the temperature and the exchange of non-rational bluster back and forth, Brown said in a interview with CNNs Jake Tapper. I dont think thats positive. Brown is in New York for some climate meetings related to the United Nations General Assembly. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Yes, dahlink: Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, widower of Zsa Zsa Gabor, is running for California governor By Phil Willon Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, widower of actress Zsa Zsa Gabor, outside of the couples Bel-Air mansion in 2011. (Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times) Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, widower of the whimsical celebrity and actress Zsa Zsa Gabor, is back. Von Anhalt has filed to run for governor of California  his second attempt after a short-lived campaign in 2010  saying hes fed up with seeing roads falling apart, people struggling to afford rent and an explosion of homelessness in the state. Ive lived in this city for 36 years. Ive never seen so many people eating out of a trash can in the Western world, Von Anhalt said Tuesday. We talk about Hollywood, and this being the entertainment center of the world. How is this possible? Von Anhalt, Garbors ninth and last husband, is running as an independent. He filed an official Candidate Intention Statement with the California Secretary of States office Monday, the first step in launching an official campaign. The 74-year-old Bel-Air resident, a German immigrant, said he has enough money to help support his own campaign. He said he dropped out of the 2010 governors race only because his wife became seriously ill. She died in December. She was the one  who wanted me run, Von Anhalt said. Von Anhalt also flirted briefly with a run for Los Angeles mayor in 2013, a race eventually won by Eric Garcetti. FOR THE RECORD 5:33 p.m.: An earlier of this post said Von Anhalt was age 71. He is 74. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Assemblyman urges other legislatures to join California in censuring President Trump By Mina Corpuz Assemblyman Tony Thurmond (D-Richmond) speaks with Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) A California lawmaker who authored a resolution to support a censure of President Trump sent letters to 49 other state legislatures Tuesday to urge them to join the effort. Assemblyman Tony Thurmond, a Richmond Democrat, sent the letters days after the Assembly became the first state legislative body to support a congressional censure of the president. California has spoken and we look to the rest of the nation to join us, Thurmond said in a statement. Its important that all our states unite and show that the United States of America stands against hate. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

After cap-and-trade vote, Assemblyman Chad Mayes faces a second Republican challenger for reelection By Patrick McGreevy Chad Mayes of Yucca Valley leaves the Assembly floor before resigning as Assembly Republican leader on Aug. 24. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) Former Palm Springs Police Chief Gary Jeandron on Tuesday became the second Republican to announce plans to challenge Assemblyman Chad Mayes (R-Yucca Valley) in the 2018 election. Jeandron, a La Quinta resident, said he was angered over Mayes vote as Assembly Republican leader to support an extension of the states controversial cap-and-trade program, which requires businesses to buy permits to release greenhouse gas emissions. Jeandron saw the action as continuing a wrongful tax increase and said he is signing a no-tax pledge. I just dont believe [Mayes] has held Republican values, Jeandron told The Times. He has been blinded by ambition. He has been seduced by the governor. Mayes vote led to an outcry by Republican leaders, and he eventually succumbed to pressure to step down as leader of the Assembly Republicans. Mayes defended his position, telling colleagues during the floor debate, many of us believe that climate change is real and  we have to work to address it. Jeandron, who lost to Mayes in the 2014 election, joins San Jacinto City Councilman Andrew Kotyuk in planning to challenge Mayes for the 42nd Assembly District seat. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Republican John Cox tasted political defeat many times before launching his bid for California governor By Phil Willon Republican gubernatorial candidate John Cox speaks to the Lincoln Club of Riverside County in June. (Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times) Candidate for California governor John Cox is relatively new to the states politics, but Cox has run for office multiple times, and even tangled with Barack Obama on the debate stage when the pair ran in the 2004 Illinois U.S. Senate race. Neither candidate was considered their partys favorite. But things began looking up for Obama, of course, who won the Senate race and then the presidency. Cox dropped out before the GOP primary election. It was his third try for elected office in Illinois and his third defeat. Now hes back, this time in his new home of California, running for governor against a trio of Democratic heavyweights. Once again, Cox is a practical unknown. Once again, the Republican is in a left-leaning state reaching for a coveted political office. Once again, Coxs campaign is being fed by cash from his own bank account. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

After she was confronted by protesters, Pelosi says Democrats want a clean Dream Act  with no border wall By Jazmine Ulloa House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi on Monday said she understood the fear in young protesters who shouted her down at a San Francisco news conference, asking for a legal path to citizenship for themselves and their parents. Speaking at Sacramento State hours after the disruption, Pelosi said she agreed with the protesters, pointing to the Dream Act as only the first step to broader immigration reform. We are all disrupters ourselves, she said, standing next to fellow congressional Democrats. So we recognize it and respect it in others. At Sac State, @NancyPelosi on SF protests today: We are all disruptors ourselves. So we recognize it and respect it in others. #dacadeal pic.twitter.com/W1WKQikmsc  Jazmine Ulloa (@jazmineulloa) September 19, 2017 Both press events were scheduled by Pelosi to discuss a legislative fix to help thousands of young people affected by President Trumps decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The Obama-era policy provided temporary status for 800,000 people brought to the country illegally as children. Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York met with Trump last week after the termination of DACA was announced. In Sacramento, Pelosi said they had come to an agreement to a clean Dream Act, which would provide a path to permanent status for citizens who work, study or serve in the military, without tougher border enforcement or increased deportations. Meanwhile, Democrats are fighting with the president over the construction of a wall along the U.S-Mexico border. And House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin has made it clear he wants some kind of border security, Pelosi said. That is not under discussion, she said. We can discuss other issues, but we are not going to discuss how we protect the Dreamers. At Sac State, @NancyPelosi arrives to talk #DACAdeal and help for Dreamers. Elected officials from every level of government also present. pic.twitter.com/yoESsRC1Ok  Jazmine Ulloa (@jazmineulloa) September 18, 2017 Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Feinstein, who called for patience with Trump, lashes out over his attacks on Clinton By Sarah D. Wire Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) said it was appalling and disgusting to see President Trump retweet a video edited to look like he hit former rival Hillary Clinton in the head with a golf ball. He continues to obsessively lash out at her  at his rallies, with his words and now through social media  in a manner that is utterly unbecoming of the president of the United States, Feinstein said in a statement Monday. Every one of us should be offended by the vindictive and candidly dangerous messages the president sends that demean not only Secretary Clinton, but all women. Grow up and do your job. Clinton is out with a new book about the campaign, and Trump has repeatedly used Twitter to deride her as a sore loser. He retweeted the animated GIF Sunday which shows him hitting a golf ball that then knocks down Clinton. Feinstein, who has yet to say whether shell run again in 2018, has walked a fine line with Trump in recent months. Shes criticized him at times, but drew ire from some progressive Californians last month when she called for patience in dealing with the president, saying that Trump could be a good president if he learned and changed. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

California lawmakers are building a wall against President Trumps policies By George Skelton California state legislators ended their annual session the way they began it  building a wall to protect undocumented immigrants from President Trump. Not an iron wall, as Trump promised to erect along the U.S.-Mexico border, but a legal barrier to prevent local police and sheriffs from teaming with the presidents agents to enforce federal immigration law. The legislators did a lot of other things, too, before adjourning early Saturday until January. They sent Gov. Jerry Brown bills to address Californias dearth of affordable housing, to borrow $4 billion for parks and waterworks, to spend $1.5 billion in greenhouse-gas pollution fees, to provide tuition-free community college for first-year students and to lift some secrecy from prescription drug pricing. Earlier in the session, the heavily Democratic Legislature passed its boldest, most controversial bill of the year: A $5.2-billion annual increase in fuel taxes and vehicle fees to finance transportation infrastructure, especially to repair crumbling highways. Republicans will attempt to repeal the bill at the ballot box in 2018. Brown says that borders on insanity. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump is riding a very dead horse on climate change, Gov. Brown says at New York conference By Ann Simmons (Rich Pedroncelli/Associated Press) Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday touted steps California has taken toward a healthier climate, but warned that powerful forces he called climate deniers are resisting technologies and policies designed to improve conditions. I like all the optimism around here, but I dont want to minimize the steep hill that we have to climb, Brown said at the start of a gathering of international leaders called Climate Week NYC. Decarbonizing the economy when the economy depends so totally on carbon is not childs play. Its quite daunting. Hosted by the Climate Group, an international nonprofit organization that works with business and government to promote clean technologies and policies, the event was scheduled to bring together high-profile governors, executives of Fortune 500 companies and leaders of multinational businesses for a week to share their strategies in tackling climate change. The discussions come amid concerns about global warming and after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma caused devastation in Houston, Florida and across parts of the Caribbean. Some scientists believe that warmer ocean waters caused by climate change are creating stronger storms. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Nancy Pelosi shouted down at DACA news conference for working with Trump By Sarah D. Wire Dreamer protesters have disrupted a Pelosi presser in CA, asking for protections for Dreamer & their parents: https://t.co/o3zGNJvblL  Frank Thorp V (@frankthorp) September 18, 2017 More than four dozen immigration activists upset with Democrats for negotiating with President Trump shouted down House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi at a San Francisco news conference Monday. We are not your bargaining chip, the crowd chanted at one point, according to KCBS News political reporter Doug Sovern. VIDEO: Chaos at @NancyPelosi #DACA event as 40+ undocumented hijack her news conf in SF: "We are not your bargaining chip! Let us speak!" pic.twitter.com/KC2WyrjqSy  Doug Sovern (@SovernNation) September 18, 2017 'All of us or none of us' Crowd takes over DREAM Act event. Pelosi getting blasted by about 100 young 'undocumented youth' pic.twitter.com/RgwnZ4dB3O  Evan Sernoffsky (@EvanSernoffsky) September 18, 2017 San Francisco Chronicle reporter Evan Sernoffsky said on Twitter that some in the group were yelling, All of us or none of us. Other reporters said the group chanted, Shut down ICE. Pelosi held the news conference to advocate for speedy passage of a legislative fix to the legal status of hundreds of thousands of people brought to the country illegally as children. Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York met with Trump last week after he announced an end to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The Obama-era program deferred deportation for some people brought to the country illegally as children. Pelosi and Schumer said their discussion with the president included the possibility of adding more immigration enforcement  which some immigration advocates are against  to legislation to address DACA. At the news conference, Pelosi first made remarks and introduced an immigrant in the country illegally, at which point the shouting began, according to a Pelosi aide. The group surrounded Pelosi, with some gesturing close to her face. She attempted to calm the crowd for about half an hour before leaving the news conference. The aide said the group was made up of local DACA beneficiaries. We need to have a conversation, but that was completely one-sided; they dont want any answers, Pelosi told reporters afterward, according to a transcript. Pelosi said the activists should be focused on Republican members of Congress, not Democrats. I understand their frustration, Im excited by it as a matter of fact, but the fact is theyre completely wrong. The Democrats are the ones who stopped their assault on sanctuary cities, stopped the wall, the increased deportations in our last bill that was at the end of April, and we are determined to get Republicans votes to pass the clean Dream Act. Is it possible to pass a bill without some border security? Well well have to see. We didnt agree to anything in that regard, except to listen, Pelosi said. UPDATES

1:06 p.m. This post was updated with more details throughout and quotes from Pelosi. This post was originally published at 12:12 p.m. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Democrats hopes of flipping seats in California are soaring, but it wont be as easy at it seems By Christine Mai-Duc (Associated Press / AFP/Getty Images) Democrats know they have to win at least a few seats in California if they want to regain control of the House in 2018. But though the energy and hopes of many Democratic activists here are soaring, flipping Republican-held seats here could be harder than it appears. There are a few bits of conventional wisdom that suggest Democrats have a long road ahead. For one, Republicans often turn out in greater numbers than their Democratic counterparts in midterm-election years. And even though Hillary Clinton won seven of the Republican-held districts Democrats are now targeting, past election data show voters there still lean much more conservative than other parts of the state. If past is prologue, says Rob Pyers, research director for the nonpartisan election guide California Target Book, Democrats will have a hard time picking up more than a couple of seats in California. With most voters unlikely to tune in until at least next spring, there are many factors that could affect the political calculus, including whether the California Republican Party will be able to field a competitive candidate for governor, or whether ballot initiatives such as a potential repeal of the newest gas tax hike will propel GOP voters to the polls. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California will be the keeper of the nations future in the era of Trump, state Democratic lawmakers promise By Melanie Mason State Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, from left, Gov. Jerry Brown and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon. (Rich Pedroncelli/Associated Press) Within a day of President Trumps election last November, Californias top Democratic lawmakers responded with a joint statement that contained an audacious promise. It was their state, not Washington, D.C., that would be the keeper of the nations future. An artistic rendering of that vow, with looping calligraphy and a roaring grizzly, is now on display in the offices of Senate leader Kevin de Leon and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon. In the wake of Trumps win, the words seemed to be a sort of foundational document  Californias declaration of resistance. That pugilistic posture is often conveyed in shorthand: California versus Trump. But the ensuing legislative year, which ended Friday, revealed the messy reality of squaring up against the federal government. Its been challenging, De Leon (D-Los Angeles) said, bleary-eyed as he took a break during the final days of the session. You have to debate, you have to negotiate, you have to make your case, and I think at the end of the day, well still have the most far-reaching policy in the nation. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

California Politics Podcast: Lawmakers leave Sacramento after a busy year By John Myers From immigration issues to housing, some of the biggest debates of the Legislatures nine-month session happened at the very end. In governing, as in life, deadlines often make things happen. On this weeks California Politics Podcast, we take an early look at some of the most important decisions lawmakers made in the final few days of the 2017 session in Sacramento. That includes a landmark decision to intervene in the issue of illegal immigration, and to pass a long discussed package of bills to begin addressing Californias housing crisis. We also look at some of the broader political themes of the entire legislative year -- most notably, the effort by Democrats in the Legislature to provide a resistance to actions taken by President Trump. Im joined by Times staff writers Melanie Mason and Liam Dillon. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Passage of sanctuary state bill draws rebukes from Trump administration officials, praise in California By Jazmine Ulloa Supporters of state sanctuary bill SB 54 rally outside the Hall of Justice. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) California lawmakers on Saturday passed a sanctuary state bill to protect immigrants without legal residency in the U.S., part of a broader push by Democrats to counter expanded deportation orders under the Trump administration. The landmark legislation by Sen. Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles) would limit state and local law enforcement communication with federal immigration authorities, and prevent officers from questioning and holding people on immigration violations. But the bill sent to Gov. Jerry Brown drastically scaled back the version first introduced, the result of tough negotiations between Brown and De Leon in the final weeks of the legislative session. Its passage already is reverberating across the country. Trump administration officials have sounded off in opposition. And immigrant rights groups and some California law enforcement officials have come out in support of what they call a hard compromise. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Supporters unable to resurrect California clean-energy proposal on final day of legislative session By Chris Megerian Environmentalists rally in front of Assemblyman Chris Holdens office in Pasadena on Thursday. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times) Despite a last-minute push from environmentalists and actors from The Avengers, legislation that eventually would require all of Californias electricity to come from clean sources failed to advance this year. Facing opposition from unions and utilities, Assembly leadership refused to put the measure, SB 100, up for a vote on Friday, the final day of the legislative session. The decision to not move the bill this year is disappointing, said Kathryn Phillips, director of the Sierra Clubs California chapter. But we are committed to moving this policy next year. Theres no time to waste. The measure, written by Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon (
The Trump administrations plan for shrinking and diminishing protections at Americas national monuments appears far more expansive than previously reported, targeting 10 of the nations most ecologically sensitive landscapes and marine preserves.

The plan, which the White House has been keeping secret since it was submitted by Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke late last month, would shrink the borders at half a dozen monuments and ocean preserves and open four others up for uses such as commercial fishing, logging and coal mining, according to a copy of the blueprint obtained by the Wall Street Journal and Washington Post.

The Zinke plan, if adopted, will have limited effect in California. Only one of the monuments targeted, the Cascade-Siskiyou on the Oregon border, has land in the state. Zinke did not specify in his 19-page memorandum how the boundaries of that or any of the other public lands targeted should be changed.

Advertisement

But the impact on the West overall would be dramatic. The other monuments Zinke is proposing to shrink include Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, which together encompass 3.2 million acres. Zinke is also urging a downsizing of the nearly 297,000-acre Gold Butte National Monument in Nevada.

Under Zinkes plan, the boundaries of the 584,000-square-mile Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument would be reduced so that commercial fishing could resume in the territory. The monument, which encompasses seven atolls and islands, is described by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as one of the last frontiers and havens for wildlife in the world.

Zinke also wants commercial fishing to resume within the 13,451-square-mile Rose Atoll Marine National Monument near American Samoa, which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes as one of the most pristine atolls in the world. Like Pacific Remote Islands, it provides refuge to a number of endangered and threatened species.

The White House is refusing to comment and has not said when it will make a final determination.

No president should use the authority under the [Antiquities] Act to restrict public access, prevent hunting and fishing, burden private land, or eliminate traditional land uses unless such action is needed to protect the object, Zinke wrote in his memo to President Trump, who ordered the review of the monuments. He concluded that Trump has the authority to unilaterally change the boundaries of monuments.

But that is a matter of intense debate. No president has ever stripped protections from monuments in the way Zinke is proposing. Opponents of the plans, including state attorneys general, environmentalists, tribal associations and outdoor groups have all vowed to fight the administration in court should it pursue the Zinke blueprint.

Acting on these recommendations would represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands, and undermine bipartisan progress to protect our lands and waters that dates to Theodore Roosevelt, said Jamie Williams, president of the Wilderness Society. We believe the Trump administration has no legal authority to alter or erase protections for national treasures.

At stake are millions of acres of unique geological formations, rare archaeological artifacts and pristine landscapes and seascapes. Trump had complained that past presidents abused their authority to put land off-limits to development and designated ever-growing swaths of property as monuments at the behest of environmentalists.

The review of the monuments undertaken by Zinke drew fury from Native American groups, conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts and political leaders. More than 90% of the 2.7 million Americans who weighed in on the monument review in written comments to the Interior Department were opposed to shrinking borders. Zinke acknowledged the intense opposition in his report to Trump, but attributed it to a well-orchestrated national campaign organized by multiple organizations.

Beyond the half a dozen monuments where Zinke suggests borders be redrawn, there are several more that he proposes be opened to traditional uses such as logging and coal mining. They include the fledgling Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine, which would be opened to more logging. Commercial fishing restrictions would be lifted from Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Monument southeast of Cape Cod. The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument near Taos, N.M., would be opened up to more grazing. And restrictions could be lifted on motor vehicles at the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument on New Mexicos southern border, which Zinke says is necessary so that the federal government can better combat drug smuggling.

The plan to change the 10 monuments comes after Trump directed Zinke to review 27 monuments larger than 100,000 acres that had been established since the presidency of Bill Clinton.

During the course of the review, Zinke declared  with little explanation  that a dozen monuments deserved to remain fully intact, including Sand to Snow in California. By late August, Zinke had privately delivered the highly anticipated report to the White House. The administrations refusal to reveal what monuments were targeted drew yet more ire from opponents, who charged that the process lacked transparency.

Some lawmakers are likely to warmly embrace the proposal. Politicians in Utah had lobbied Trump to eliminate the 1.3-million-acre Bears Ears National Monument in the remote desert Canyonlands of their state altogether. President Obamas creation of the new monument enraged state officials who complained it killed off potential oil, gas and mining jobs in the region.

The monument was created at the behest of five tribal nations eager to protect more than 100,000 cultural and archaeological sites that they fear are vulnerable to looting and grave robbing.

The dispute over monuments in Utah stretches back to the Clinton administration, whose creation of the 1.9-million-acre Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument riled some residents. A proposed coal project was derailed with that action.

Even before Trump ordered the review, the campaign against Bears Ears triggered an intense backlash, in which outdoor apparel company Patagonia led a boycott effort that cost Salt Lake City a major trade show that had been providing an economic boost to the city for 20 years.

The administrations plan is rooted in a provision of the 1906 Antiquities Act that it argues limits presidents to protecting the smallest possible amount of land needed to preserve historic artifacts and ecologically significant landscapes.

Zinkes memorandum also suggested Trump might consider creating some modestly sized monuments and parks. He said the 4,000 acres of Camp Nelson, an 1863 Union Army supply depot, training center and hospital in Kentucky, might be deserving of protection, along with the Medgar Evers Home in Jackson, Miss. He also suggested Trump consider the 130,000-acre Badger-Two Medicine area in the forest of northern Montana, an area Zinke said is sacred to the Blackfeet Nation.

evan.halper@latimes.com

Twitter: @evanhalper

ALSO

Trumps first speech at U.N. will focus on sovereignty and calls for reform

Trump crosses yet another line on Twitter days before U.N. address

Treasury inspector general looking into Steven Mnuchins request for a military jet for his honeymoon

Tillerson trims State Department staff and vows to make diplomacy more efficient

UPDATES:

1:15 p.m.: The article was updated with details about new monuments Zinke is recommending.

This article was originally published at 9:55 a.m.
The quietest spot in all of California today might be the historic state Capitol in Sacramento, now empty after the years long and tumultuous session of the Legislature ended at 2:34 a.m. Saturday.

A lot happened in the hours just before the final gavel fell in the state Senate and Assembly.

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A SANCTUARY STATE

Advertisement

Perhaps no measure was more talked about in 2017 than the sanctuary state bill approved after midnight on Saturday to protect immigrants without legal residency in the U.S. As part of a broader push by Democrats to counter expanded deportation orders under the Trump administration, passage of the landmark legislation was reverberating within hours across the country.

The Trump administration and one prominent California sheriff sounded off in opposition over the weekend. Immigrant rights groups and other California law enforcement officials, though, call it a good compromise. Gov. Jerry Brown has said he will sign the bill into law.

BILLIONS FOR NEW HOUSING HELP

After two years of negotiations, lawmakers approved a package of bills aimed at addressing Californias housing affordability crisis.

The bills included a fund for low-income housing, paid for with a new $75 real estate transaction fee, a $4-billion bond measure on the June 2018 ballot and an attempt to ease local development regulations.

There was high drama on Thursday night, when a crucial Assembly vote took an hour to finalize after three Democrats held out on approving the real estate fee.

Why? One of the Democrats had an unrelated bill of his own that was stuck in the Senate.

That kind of political tension was everywhere in the final hours in Sacramento.

THE OTHER HOUSE IS THE ENEMY

Theres no shortage of political and ideological battle lines in the statehouse. But one of the oldest divides is institutional, the predictable squabbles between the 40-member Senate and the 80-member Assembly. Capitol veterans told Chris Megerian the tension has only grown worse this year.

EVEN CAPTAIN AMERICA COULDNT SAVE THE RENEWABLE ENERGY BILL

A closely watched proposal to phase out using fossil fuels to generate electricity ran out of juice, with lawmakers giving in to opposition from unions representing electrical and utility workers. The defeat came even as three Hollywood actors from the Marvel Avengers series -- Chris Evans (Captain America), Mark Ruffalo (The Incredible Hulk) and Don Cheadle (Iron Patriot) -- called legislators offices urging them to pass the bill.

None of them were able to resuscitate Senate Bill 100.

It wasnt the only green proposal that failed in the final hours. Senate Bill 49 would have made many federal regulations under attack by President Trump enforceable by state officials. The Assembly didnt bring it up for a vote.

Progress was made, though, on a plan to spend cash from the cap-and-trade program, which lawmakers extended earlier this year. Brown quickly signed one of the measures on Saturday.

STATE OF RESISTANCE

In the end, the Legislature ended its work much as it began -- with no shortage of jabs at Trump. As Melanie Mason and Jazmine Ulloa write, the California versus Trump dynamic was a complicated swirl of legislation -- both successful and stalled -- as well as court challenges and symbolic gestures that led to frank, personal exchanges among lawmakers.

(Lawmakers even voted to be the first state in the nation to censure Trump  and formally denounced him over his decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.)

Its unclear what Brown will do with one push California lawmakers made for some electoral pressure on the president in 2020: bills to require presidential candidates to release their tax returns before getting on the California ballot, and moving the states primary to early March.

And as George Skelton writes, the productivity of California lawmakers yet again showed that the heavily Democratic Legislature knows how to get things done  in stark contrast to Congress. Skelton also offered his own take (and support) for the compromise over the sanctuary state proposal.

BILLS THAT WENT TO BROWN

-- Smoking pot or tobacco at California beaches could soon be illegal.

-- A bill aiming to speed up development for a new Facebook headquarters, Hollywood skyscraper and other large projects.

-- California taxpayers will be on the hook for up to $270 million if L.A.s 2028 Olympics goes over budget.

-- Voters next year will weigh borrowing $4 billion to fund parks and water improvements.

-- Californians could be able to choose a third nonbinary gender option on their drivers licenses.

-- Lawmakers said yes to an attempt to level the playing field for taxicabs in their battle with Uber and Lyft.

-- Pot edibles that look like gummy bears would be illegal to sell in California.

-- A bill to disclose more information about prescription drug prices that sparked a fierce battle between pharmaceutical companies and health insurers, labor groups and consumer advocates.

-- The first year of community college could be tuition-free for full-time students.

-- A bill that would help reduce Californias backlog of untested rape kits.

BILLS THAT FIZZLED OR WILL COME BACK IN 2018

-- A closely watched Internet privacy bill died in the final minutes of the legislative session.

-- A statewide ballot measure to expand the L.A. County Board of Supervisors barely made it through the state Senate, but faces tough odds in 2018 in the Assembly.

-- A bill requiring California middle and high schools begin their day no earlier than 8:30 a.m. was shelved.

WHATS NEXT FOR DACA

With the DREAM Act revived on Capitol Hill, Sarah Wire traces it back to its Los Angeles roots by talking with Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard.

Trumps loyal supporters in Arizona arent the least bit upset hes dealing with Democrats and might keep DACA in place.

And dont miss Mark Z. Barabaks column asking San Francisco liberals what they think about Nancy Pelosi dealing with the devil.

NATIONAL POLITICS LIGHTNING ROUND

-- Heres what Trump will say at his first United Nations General Assembly.

-- Is Trump reversing himself on climate change policies?

-- Trumps tweets and retweets, especially one of a doctored video showing him hitting Hillary Clinton with a golf ball, have caused another furor.

-- George Clooney and Ellen Page played the word association game with The Times. And yes, we asked them their quick reaction to Trump.

-- At the Emmys, Saturday Night Live scored big, with Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon winning for their portrayals of Trump and Clinton, respectively; former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer made a surprise appearance.

-- Kurt Bardella, former spokesman for Rep. Darrell Issa, calls out Republicans for the lack of investigations into the Trump administration.

-- Pete Domenici, the former Republican senator from New Mexico, died at age 85.

Get the latest about whats happening in the nations capital on Essential Washington.

THE KEY CONGRESSIONAL RACES OF 2018

Its just plain math: If Democrats are going to stand a chance of winning back the House in 2018, theyre going to have to go through California. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is targeting nine Republican-held seats in the Golden State, seven of which Hillary Clinton won over Trump last year. Christine Mai-Duc explains there are a number of reasons winning here could be harder than it looks, even with a surge of anti-Trump fervor and a bumper crop of qualified Democratic challengers.

Heres a reminder of the 13 races that will make the difference in November 2018.

A reminder you can keep up with these races in the moment via our Essential Politics news feed on California politics.

TODAYS ESSENTIALS

-- This weeks California Politics Podcast recaps the biggest moments of the final debates in the Legislature.

-- Citing a conspiracy theory, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher blamed Democrats for the Charlottesville violence.

-- Rohrabacher is also still waiting to tell Trump what he learned at his meeting with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.

-- Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Californias newest member of Congress, endorsed Mike Levin, one of two Democratic challengers so far looking to unseat Issa.

LOGISTICS

Essential Politics is published Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

You can keep up with breaking news on our politics page throughout the day for the latest and greatest. And are you following us on Twitter at @latimespolitics?

Miss Fridays newsletter? Here you go.

Please send thoughts, concerns and news tips to politics@latimes.com.

Did someone forward you this? Sign up here to get Essential Politics in your inbox.
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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

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

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

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
Police are searching for a man who allegedly robbed a Burbank Walgreens at gunpoint Monday morning.

The incident took place around 3:45 a.m. at the Walgreens Pharmacy at 1028 S. San Fernando Blvd. According to the Burbank Police Department, a man entered the store and brandished what appeared to be a dark semi-automatic handgun at an employee while demanding money.

The man then fled from the store through an alleyway with an unknown amount of cash.

He is described as black, wearing a dark coat with a gray and white hooded sweatshirt underneath.

Police said the employee was unharmed.

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

Twitter: @Andy_Truc
As I write these words I sit before my laptop computer onboard a cruise ship off the West Coast of the Queen Charlotte Islands, B.C., headed for Juneau, Alaska. The hour is late and I have no idea what to write.

This is what writers occasionally go through: I must write; but what?

Though its not always like this, it happens frequently enough. And, despite the breathtaking beauty of my current locale, Im not inspired. Id so hoped.

The urge to write is often like an itch between the shoulder blades. One desperately wants to tend to it, but cant. It becomes a nuisance. Just 700 words tonight, thats all I need. But where are they? Not lingering idly in my cranium.

Still, Im compelled. And also bewildered, like that fellow who confesses to Christ: Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.

He appears caught in a dilemma and I know the feeling. Ive done this before, you know  gone cruising. Five times to Alaska (it never gets old), and cruises from New England to Canadas maritime provinces, and a circumnavigation of the Baltic.

No sailor by any stretch, this former Army GI  who tossed his cookies for 23 days aboard a troop ship in 1965 from San Francisco to Incheon, South Korea  is a Southern California native and has always loved the sea.

Tonight whilst sitting on my veranda I watched the last hint of gloaming disappear from the sky; a large whale of some sort spouting not a hundred yards from me; and a flash in the northern sky that I mistakenly took for a nuclear-tipped missile, courtesy of Kim Jong-un, reentering the earths atmosphere.

Thankfully, it died as space debris. And, alas, no Aurora Borealis. Not tonight.

As a writer, I often feel compelled to write even when I have nothing to say. This is one of those moments. I am mute. What I advise others in this situation is if you have nothing to say, for heavens sake dont open your trap.

Tonight I violate my own code. French mathematician and theologian, Blaise Pascal, once said of humanity  though he could have been referring specifically to writers: We are the glory and the bane of the universe.

Tonight I am less than glorious. Did Beethoven have something to say as he sat laboring over his Ninth Symphony? If he didnt, he faked it rather well.

I sometimes feel sorry for myself as I write. I cant coordinate my hands to properly strike the keys of my laptop. I used to type a hundred words a minute. I now struggle for 10.

Im forced to think slowly, whether I want to or not. Perhaps that encourages deeper introspection. I have Parkinsons disease.

Still, after I employ my single-finger, hunt-and-peck technique I can read a finished product no matter how dreadful it might be. Poor Beethoven, his lifes great tragedy was that he lost his hearing. He never heard the Ninth  the greatest piece of music ever conceived by the human brain. He didnt hear it. Im certain it resonated through his soul, however. As Shakespeare once mused, That stinketh!

Novelist Mark Sullivan found himself with writers block prior to writing his best seller, Beneath a Scarlet Sky. Im reading it on this voyage. On the verge of a breakdown, he writes in the forward to his book, I bowed my head and begged God and the universe for help. I prayed for a story, something greater than myself, a project I could get lost in.

His prayer was answered. Ahh, the ask God for divine intervention gambit. Its as old as the hills. Ive used it many times  including this very column.

What have I composed over the past hour? You be the judge. No concerto, no ode, no sonnet this. Only the blatherings of an aged man  owing his life to Gods mercy. My wife, Hedy, murmurs softly in sweet repose. Like Eve, Ive given birth to a  column. How exactly? Providence dear reader, unvarnished Providence.

JIM CARNETT, who lives in Costa Mesa, worked for Orange Coast College for 37 years.
More than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims have streamed out of Myanmar in recent weeks, fleeing a bloody military crackdown that a top United Nations official described as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

Now the Rohingya are facing expulsion from another country: India, where an estimated 40,000 refugees are scattered amid a population of 1.3 billion.

The Indian government on Monday told the countrys Supreme Court that the Rohingya population posed a threat to national security and that intelligence reports suggested some refugees had links to militant groups based in Pakistan.

Advertisement

Indias Hindu nationalist government made the allegations in an affidavit arguing that the countrys highest court should not block its efforts to deport Rohingya refugees.

India is already saddled with a very serious problem of illegal migrants and is attempting to address the situation in the larger interest of the nation, the government said.

For several weeks, officials have said they would like to expel the Rohingya, who they say are in the country illegally. Human rights groups say such a move would violate international laws against sending refugees back to countries where they face persecution.

The Buddhist majority in Myanmar, also known as Burma, has long been accused of oppressing the Rohingya, an ethnic and religious minority of some 1 million people living mostly in the countrys western Rakhine state. The violence has exploded since Aug. 25, when a Rohingya militant group attacked Myanmar police checkpoints, killing a dozen officers.

The Myanmar army has responded with severe force, shooting civilians and setting fire to villages, according to accounts compiled by international human rights groups. As of Saturday, the U.N. said, 412,000 Rohingya had escaped over the border into Bangladesh. Myanmars government says about 400 people have been killed, nearly all of them militants.

The Rohingya are sometimes described as one of the worlds most mistreated minority groups. Myanmar refuses to grant them citizenship, calling them interlopers from Bangladesh even though many families trace their lineage in the country back several generations.

Thailand, which borders Myanmar to the east, has routinely pushed back boats carrying Rohingya refugees attempting to cross the Andaman Sea to reach safety in the Muslim-majority nations of Malaysia or Indonesia.

The move by India means there is one less country willing to accept the Rohingya.

Many Rohingya Muslims living in the overwhelmingly Hindu country arrived following an eruption of communal violence in 2012 in Rakhine state. There are pockets of several thousand Rohingya in New Delhi, Hyderabad, the northern city of Jammu and three other areas in the country, according to Indian officials.

About 16,500 Rohingya in India are registered with the U.N. refugee agency, which said last month that it had not been informed of any official plan to deport the refugees.

The group lived in relative peace until this year, when right-wing Hindus in Jammu began putting up signs calling on the Rohingya to leave the city, saying they posed a security threat. The leader of the group said he would identify and kill Rohingyas if authorities did not take action.

Current and former officials in Jammu and Kashmir state  the only one in India with a majority Muslim population  said they had seen no evidence that the refugees were involved in terrorism or other major crimes.

Omar Abdullah, the top official in the state until January 2015, tweeted Monday, No such intelligence reports ever came up for discussion while he was in office.

This threat, at least in J&K, is a post 2014 development. No such intelligence reports ever came up for discussion in Unified HQ meetings. https://t.co/xLM0qWQBXL  Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) September 18, 2017

But Indias central government said in August that infiltration by migrants from Rakhine state, besides being [a] burden on the limited resources of the country also aggravatessecurity challenges.

In the affidavit filed Monday, the Indian government alleged that the Rohingya were a threat to Indian citizens, arguing that Islamic State could use the refugees to carry out attacks and that the arrival of migrants was changing the demographics in border states.

The government argued that it was not a signatory to U.N. refugee conventions. But human rights experts said that sending Rohingya back to Myanmar would violate international laws against refoulement, or forcibly returning refugees to countries where they faced a credible threat of persecution.

The Indian government cannot return the Rohingya to a country that is engaged in ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya, said Meenakshi Ganguly, South Asia director for Human Rights Watch.

If there are credible security threats, instead of condemning the entire community, just as the Burmese are, Indian authorities can prosecute any militant suspects by producing evidence in court.

Some Muslims viewed Indias actions as another example of the countrys growing intolerance for religious minorities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a staunch Hindu nationalist.

While Muslim-majority countries across Asia have criticized Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of Myanmars governing party  and some have called for her Nobel Peace Prize to be rescinded  Modi in a meeting this month praised her leadership and expressed concern over extremist violence, but did not mention the Rohingya.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia

ALSO

From Malala to the Taliban, anger across Asia at Myanmars violence against Rohingya Muslims

How a humanitarian crisis tarnished Nobel winner Aung San Suu Kyis legacy, perhaps forever

Myanmars long-suffering Rohingya Muslims hoped that Aung San Suu Kyi would make them full citizens. They were wrong
Pakistan, facing growing pressure internally and from the United States about the relationship between the two countries, is weighing how to respond to U.S. demands that it do more to help stop the fighting in Afghanistan.

U.S. envoys have renewed calls on Pakistan to crack down on the Haqqani militant network that has attacked U.S. forces in Afghanistan, pressure Taliban insurgents to begin peace talks and hand over a doctor jailed for helping the CIA track Osama bin Laden at his hideaway outside the Pakistani capital.

The long-standing U.S. demands have taken on fresh urgency since President Trump declared last month that Pakistan must change immediately its policy of harboring the Taliban and other militant groups challenging the U.S.-backed government in neighboring Afghanistan.

Advertisement

Trumps comments, along with his support for Pakistans rival India to play a greater role in Afghanistan, have spooked Pakistani officials. Some are wondering whether their years-long, multibillion-dollar alliance with the United States will survive the new U.S. administration.

Pakistani officials have lashed out publicly at the U.S., saying Trumps plan to bolster the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan will fail and that they are reassessing ties with Washington. Defense Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan said Pakistan would explain its position to U.S. officials but that its not for us to satisfy them.

Privately, however, officials in Pakistans powerful army acknowledged in a series of interviews that they risk being isolated in the region unless they find ways to placate the United States.

A U.S.-India-Afghan nexus is dangerous for Pakistan, said one senior official, who requested anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. We dont want to be competing against the U.S. in Afghanistan and we want a normal working relationship with the U.S.

Pakistani officials have also watched with concern as ally China has offered less than full-throated support. While Beijing initially defended Pakistan from Trumps criticism, it later signed a declaration condemning Pakistan-based militant groups such as the Haqqani network, a move seen as putting pressure on Pakistans security establishment, which maintains ties to such groups.

China is investing tens of billions of dollars in infrastructure projects in Pakistan, but lacks the close ties to top Pakistani military officials that the United States has built over nearly two decades. The U.S. supplies Pakistan with hundreds of millions of dollars in military assistance every year and conducts training programs with senior Pakistani army officials.

America needs Pakistan, and they know without Pakistan there is no way forward in Afghanistan, said Hamayoun Khan, a professor of strategic studies at National Defense University in Islamabad.

On the other hand, Pakistan knows the U.S. is the most important factor to bring stability in Afghanistan. It is imperative that they will cooperate. They cannot afford discontinuing engagement.

Trump is preparing to send thousands more troops to Afghanistan, to add to the 11,000 already deployed there in the 17th year of the U.S. war effort. Many analysts said he recognized that peace could not be achieved without getting tougher on Pakistan, which has long nurtured militant groups to defend its strategic interests in India and Afghanistan.

Leaders of both the Taliban and Haqqani network are believed to be based in Pakistan, but the government has shown little ability to control or influence the groups.

Pakistan has been unable, for example, to goad Taliban commanders into engaging in peace talks with the Afghan government. That prospect seems ever more distant now that Kabul controls only 60% of the countrys 407 districts, according to the latest U.S. assessment.

In meetings this month in Pakistan and Afghanistan, U.S. officials have emphasized they want to maintain the close relationship but urged Pakistan to resolve a series of old problems.

The U.S. wants to see more progress toward peace talks in Afghanistan and an end to the Haqqani networks haven in Pakistan, the officials said. They also asked that Pakistan release Shakil Afridi, a doctor who has been jailed for six years for his role in helping the CIA track Osama bin Laden, the Al Qaeda leader who was in hiding at a safe house in the Pakistani garrison town of Abbottabad.

During his presidential campaign, Trump boasted that he could free Afridi in two minutes because we give a lot of aid to Pakistan.

But U.S. officials have long hesitated to enact punitive measures against the Pakistani army, which guards the countrys nuclear arsenal and also controls access to Afghanistan via land routes used by NATO supply vehicles.

Pakistani news media have reported that if the U.S. enacts sanctions, Islamabad would respond with the toughest diplomatic policies, including reducing cooperation in Afghanistan and banning NATO vehicles from entering Afghanistan via Pakistan.

Frustration is high in both capitals, with some in Washington saying Trumps speech wasnt tough enough, and Islamabad furious that he encouraged a greater role for India.

Officials from the two sides are expected to meet again this week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Although unlikely, for the first time in years some experts say they can envision a U.S.-Pakistani breakup.

Ive almost felt a sense of relief among Pakistani officials, that theyve been in a bad marriage for too long, and they were never going to ask for a divorce, but now the other side has said, Im going to leave you, so you dont look bad in front of the kids, said Moeed Yusuf, an expert on U.S.-Pakistan relations at the United States Institute of Peace.

In private moments, both sides say they dont want a rupture, and they understand they need each other, Yusuf said. But these extreme positions make it impossible to engage, and the naysayers on both sides, their hands get strengthened.

Special correspondent Sahi reported from Islamabad and Times staff writer Bengali from Mumbai, India.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia
Saakashvili neither to be expelled from Ukraine, nor to be arrested  Prosecutor General Lutsenko

Politician Mikheil Saakashvili will neither be expelled from Ukraine, nor will be arrested in connection with the border incident, which has occurred on September 10, Ukrainian Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko said.

"As prosecutor general I put it clearly to you: Saakashvili will not be arrested in this case, Saakashvili cannot be extradited from this country, unless he has a permanent residence certificate or other documents, which he has filed," the prosecutor general said in Kyiv on Saturday.

Saakashvili arrived in Ukraine on September 10. His supporters gathered at the Shehyni checkpoint and began a fight with border guards in the transit zone, helping Saakashvili and a group of other people, including five parliamentarians, illegally cross the border. Thirteen Ukrainian National Police officers and nine border guards were injured in the incident.

Some 69 protocols were completed by Ukraine's State Border Guard Service for the persons who illegally crossed the Shehyni checkpoint of the Poland-Ukraine border on September 10. They are charged with illegal crossing or trespassing across the state border under Article 204-1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses. Fourteen participants  four journalists and 10 foreign citizens  returned to the checkpoint where they signed corresponding protocols. A protocol was also read out to Saakashvili.
California Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday touted steps the state has taken toward a healthier climate, but warned that powerful forces he called climate deniers are resisting technologies and policies designed to improve conditions.

I like all the optimism around here, but I dont want to minimize the steep hill that we have to climb, Brown said at the start of a gathering of international leaders called Climate Week NYC. Decarbonizing the economy when the economy depends so totally on carbon is not childs play. Its quite daunting.



For the record: An earlier version of this article said The Times reported in March that sales of electric vehicles rose 91% in the first quarter of 2017 from the same period last year. The report was in May.

Hosted by the Climate Group, an international nonprofit organization that works with business and government to promote clean technologies and policies, the event brought together high-profile governors, along with leaders of Fortune 500 companies and multinational businesses this week to share their strategies and leadership in tackling climate change.

Advertisement

The discussions come amid concerns about global warming and after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma caused devastating flooding in Texas, Florida and across parts of the Caribbean. Some scientists believe warmer ocean waters caused by climate change are creating stronger storms.

President Trump this year announced the U.S. withdrawal from the groundbreaking Paris climate agreement.

Trump has expressed doubt about climate change and indicated that he sees the landmark international accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as a threat to U.S. sovereignty. The president has argued that the deal is detrimental to U.S. businesses and unfair because Washington was being made to pay more than its fair share. Trump is pushing for more pro-America terms, according to White House officials.

Brown said California has taken steps toward advancing climate action. In July, the governor signed legislation to extend Californias cap-and-trade program, which requires companies to buy permits to release greenhouse gas emissions, essentially giving them a financial incentive to pollute less. It is the only such initiative of its kind in the U.S. and is widely considered an international model for using financial pressure to prod industry to reduce emissions. The revenue generated from the program is expected to go toward building the bullet train from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

Brown noted that the legislation was passed with bipartisan support, including eight Republican votes.

Its the first time that I know of where Republican representatives have voted for a climate action explicitly by the name climate action, Brown said. Thats real crack in the armor of Republican climate denial, and I think thats going to spread to other parts of the party.

California uses around 30% renewable energy and will be at 50% in the next seven years, Brown said.

In 2015, Californias Air Resources Board voted to re-adopt its low-carbon fuel standard, which requires the state to achieve at least a 10% cut in the carbon intensity of transportation fuels by 2020. The state has also called for zero-emission cars to represent 15% of sales by 2025. The standards have come under fire from the auto industry that has criticized the rules as too stringent. But sales of electric vehicles rose 91% in the first quarter of 2017 from the same period last year, The Times reported in May. Emissions fell by a third of a percent in 2015, which regulators said was equivalent to removing 300,000 vehicles from state roads for a year, according to a June report in The Times.

Other initiatives California is pushing include eco-friendly building standards.

Brown was joined onstage at Morgan Library and Museum in Manhattan by Govs. Jay Inslee of Washington and David Ige of Hawaii, Philippe Couillard, the premier of Quebec, and Stephen Badger, chairman of the board of Mars Inc.

The chocolate giant has pledged to invest $1 billion in its Sustainable in a Generation plan, which aims to fight climate change by reducing greenhouse-gas emissions in its production markets by 67% by 2050 and tackling poverty through promoting sustainable farming.

Were committed, Brown said.

At a later event Monday, the governor joined mayors and business leaders from around the world at a conference organized by C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group to emphasize the role that states, cities and regions can play in addressing climate issues.

Cities and states can make a profound difference, Brown said during a moderated conversation with Tom Steyer, president and founder of NextGen, an environmental advocacy nonprofit organization. The billionaire environmentalist and potential candidate for governor of California has gained a reputation as a champion for clean energy policies.

On Monday, Steyer announced that he had taken out a full-page ad in the New York Post describing Trumps failure to act on climate change as being even more dangerous than a Category 4 hurricane, according to information released by his company.

The ad, scheduled to publish Tuesday, the same day Trump is to address the United Nations General Assembly, warns that the presidents lack of climate action would endanger even more American lives.

The most dangerous part of a hurricane isnt the wind or the surge, reads the ad. Its a President who fails to act on climate change.

It would be better to have the president [on board], but the president is temporarily AWOL on this issue, Brown said.

Trumps ideology on the climate change issue  he has questioned the science suggesting a man-made role in raising overall global temperatures and has in the past pushed a narrative that climate change is a deliberate hoax created by Chinahas prompted some people to be more outspoken and committed in supporting action to tackle the climate issue, Brown said.

He is not going to be successful in the direction hes going, Brown said. Hes riding a very dead horse [on] climate denial  He is accelerating the reversal through his own absurdity.

The governors comments came as a new report published Monday found that the impact from the U.S. decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement could be significantly mitigated thanks to the determined action demonstrated by U.S. states, cities and businesses.

Authored by NewClimate Institute and The Climate Group, the analysis in States, cities and businesses leading the way: a first look at decentralized climate commitments in the US, shows that the U.S. could already meet half of its climate commitments under the Paris agreement by 2025, if 22 states, 54 cities and 250 businesses headquartered in the U.S. continue to implement more than 300 obligations to reduce greenhouse emissions.

Theres a lot of uncertainty at the federal level, Helen Clarkson, CEO of The Climate Group, told The Times. But what the report says is that there is plenty of action happening already. There are commitments.

These commitments include a pledge by more than 100 businessesincluding Google, Facebook and General Motorsto go to 100% renewable electricity, within various time frames, Clarkson said.

Other companies have promised to bring their fleets of vehicles to 100% electric. Los Angeles has committed to 1,000 charging stations, the highest of any city. Britain, India and France are among several countries that have announced a phase-out of internal combustion engines by 2030/2040, Clarkson said.

Under the current scenario and if all commitments are fulfilled, greenhouse gas emissions would be reduced 12% to 14% below the 2005 level by 2025, the analysis found.

Brown this week is expected to undertake a flurry of other activities, including announcing new details regarding the September 2018 Global Climate Action Summit that is scheduled to take place in San Francisco.

Times staff writers Tony Barboza in Los Angeles and Chris Megerian and Russ Mitchell in San Francisco contributed to this report.

ann.simmons@latimes.com

For more on global development news, see our Global Development Watch page, and follow me @AMSimmons1 on Twitter

UPDATES:

4:45 p.m.: This article was updated to include mention of environmentalist Tom Steyers ad.

2:40 p.m.: This article was updated with additional background on Californias efforts regarding climate change.

This article was originally published at 11:35 a.m.
Netanyahu would like to pull back the Iran nuclear agreement. But will he get what he wants?

President Trump shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a meeting at the Palace Hotel during the United Nations General Assembly. (Evan Vucci/Associated Press)

With his eye on domestic politics, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to New York this week hoping to return home with a promise that the U.S. president will attempt to modify the 2015 deal with Iran to limit its nuclear program, Israeli sources said.

Netanyahu was also hoping to avoid the subject of peace talks with the Palestinians.

But the Israeli and American leaders seemed to come to their meeting Monday in New York, their third encounter this year, with different agendas.

Trump has until Oct. 15 to notify Congress whether Iran is living up to its commitments under the deal, which was spearheaded by President Obama in an attempt to curb Iranian nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu is an implacable opponent of the agreement, and Trump is certainly no proponent  as a presidential candidate, he termed it a terrible deal.

But even if the United States were to pull out of the pact, any modification would require an agreement from the other five signatories, which include China, Russia, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.

Trump on Monday seemed eager to change the subject.

We are going to discuss peace between Israel and the Palestinians; it will be a fantastic achievement, Trump said during a brief media event before meeting privately with Netanyahu for an hour.

We are giving it [an] absolute go  there is a good chance it could happen. Most people would say there is no chance whatsoever, but I think that with the ability of Bibi and the other side  I really think we have a chance, Trump said, using Netanyahus nickname.

In a manner of a response to the president, the prime minister said, Peace between Israel and the Palestinians, and peace between Israel and the Arab world, go together.

It is a formulation Netanyahu uses often, implying there can be no peace negotiations with the Palestinians until Israel is recognized by the Arab world as a whole.

Despite this position, Netanyahu has by and large ignored the Arab Peace Initiative proposed by Saudi Arabia that would normalize ties between Arab states and Israel in exchange for a total Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank, which Israel has ruled since 1967.

Haaretz reported from New York that Netanyahu and his staff have insisted in recent days that his meeting with Trump would focus on Iran, and he seemed a bit surprised by the presidents remarks.

Israeli political analyst Ron Ben-Yishai suggested that Netanyahus demand was no more than Israeli spin.

In the current state of affairs, theres absolutely no chance the nuclear agreement with Iran would be cancelled, and theres no chance the United States would walk away from the agreement, he wrote on the Ynet website. Theres a simple reason for that: None of the countries and international organizations that signed the agreement have an interest in violating it.

Trump said he expected to have a response regarding Iran very soon.
The anti-corruption court must be created as quickly as possible for all regions of Ukraine, and it's not important if it will be a separate court or a court chamber within an existing court, head of the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office Yuriy Lutsenko has said.

"I am in favor of creating an anti-corruption court, one that will be created without politicians, for institutions, and not only for the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), for all corrupt persons, not only Kyiv-based ones," Lutsenko said during the 14th annual Yalta European Strategy (YES) meeting in Kyiv on Saturday.

The PGO chief said it was not important for him how the court will be created, adding: "Whether it's a single court or a separate court chamber is not my business! This court must be for all corrupt persons. It must be created as quickly as possible!"

According to Lutsenko, the creation of a new court as a separate structure with separate premises would be a drawn-out process.

"My historical memory says it will take years to create this As PGO chief, I asked Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine members to introduce a new bill  to create a court separate chamber in existing courts  in each regional center and in the capital, and to staff it via open competition of newly appointed judges over three months," Lutsenko said.

"Give me 50 judges of an anti-corruption chamber or an anti-corruption court this year and we will restore normality to the country," he said.
Russia's proposal to introduce peacekeepers to Donbas will only exacerbate a split-up in Ukraine, but will not resolve the conflict, United States State Department Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker said.

It had been very interesting last week to see how Russia had suggested a peacekeeping mission, a UN mission, something that, as Russia had already said, would not support, something that had been offered following the Normandy format consultations with the U.S. and others, he said at the 14th Yalta European Strategy Annual Meeting "Is This a New World? And What Does It Mean for Ukraine?" on Saturday, September 16.

"If an agreement regarding the peacekeepers is reached, this initiative will be implemented in the context of the Minsk agreements. This means implementation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the country's east border. But this also means that Russia has to be certain about implementation of the political part of the Minsk agreements," he said.

The fact of proposal had been important and had needed to be studied, the U.S. envoy said.

"Specific features of what has been proposed would split Ukraine rather than produce anything useful. Nevertheless, the very fact that this proposal has been made is very interesting and it needs to be looked at. If we think of the international peace-keepers as replacement for the Russian army in terms of controlling heavy weapon and border control  this would be an essential step forward and will form the basis for implementation of the Minsk agreement," he said.

He said that Ukraine should be convinced that a peacekeeping mission would promote territorial integrity reinstatement, but would not split the territories of Ukraine.
Those opposed to the HPV Vaccination held a motorway campaign on Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday they held the protest in Roscommon while on Sunday banners were posted along the M4

Two of the banners read : 450 girls are victims of the Gardasil HPV Vaccine - Forgotten and Undermined.

Another on the M4 read: Dept of Health - Gardasil HPV Girls - Their Future?

At the moment many parents in the county and across Ireland are facing the decision to consent to the HPV vaccine for their daughters.

The HSE, Department of Health and Medical Care Professionals are advocating the free drug which they say can prevent cervical cancer.

The HSE says there is no credible research linking the HPV vaccine to any chronic side effects and this is backed by research from The World Health Organisation and European Medical Boards.

However, parents are hesitating and the take-up rate which was at 87% in 2010 has since fallen to 50%.

The HSE has sent out leaflets and information to schools and parents and have hit out in the media at unfounded fears over the HPV.

Locally, the father of a Leitrim teenager who has suffered severe side effects from taking the HPV vaccine Gardasil has advised parents who are considering giving the vaccine to their daughters to be aware.

Peter Hollidge from Annaduff is the father of Rebecca Hollidge who has suffered since she was administered with the vaccine two years ago.

She is just one of a large number of girls who allege that their illness has been caused from having the HPV Vaccine.
The Tree Council of Ireland supported by Tetra Pak is calling on primary schools in Leitrim to get involved in Tetra Pak Tree Day 2017 on Thursday 5th October. The aim of Tetra Pak Tree Day 2017 is to encourage primary school children across the country to put down their school books for a few hours and get outside to enjoy all that trees and our natural environment have to offer.

The theme of this years campaign is Our Planet, Our Choice - Ar bPlaineid, Ar Rogha to convey that we are all responsible for our environment. It will see over 1,000 Oak tree saplings being made available for primary schools through the website, www.treeday.ie.

Leitrim primary schools are encouraged to log onto www.treeday.ie where they can apply for an Oak tree sapling which they can plant on their school grounds. Planting these saplings will help teach children about the importance of planting trees to improve biodiversity on the school grounds. In addition, guided woodland walks will be organised nationwide with locations and details of the local walks on www.treecouncil.ie/tree-day.

Tetra Pak Tree Day gives children, teachers and parents an opportunity to connect directly with trees, nature and the outdoors. Through this years campaign, the school children of Leitrim will learn about how to become more environmentally aware. In addition, the campaigns mascot Sammy Squirrel will feature on the back of Avonmore School Milk cartons including seven important environmental messages to encourage children to think about our environment and the role they can play in protecting it.

The Tree Council of Ireland is proud to continue this important aspect of environmental education and is urging primary schools in County Leitrim to get involved and celebrate Tetra Pak Tree Day on Thursday 5th October.
A little while ago, I described FIRC as being the Cinderella committee of the Party, erratically mentioned in the Constitution, in need of rapid evolution in terms of its relationships with other Federal Committees and generally overlooked by the Federal Board, who havent yet commented on our work, engaged with our reports or provided any guidance as to its desired strategy.

I stand by that, and there is a sense that there are elements on the Committee whose skills and talents are not best utilised by a structure which doesnt exactly reach out to include them, let alone our wider membership base. But I digress

All of that said, yesterdays meeting was, in many ways, rather interesting. We started with Ros Scott welcoming two of her fellow ALDE Party Vice Presidents, Timmy Dooley from Fianna Fail, and Henrik Bach Mortensen from Venstre, one of the governing parties in Denmark. Discussion revolved around Brexit, what their countries thought about our future relationship, the impact that Brexit would have on their domestic economies and on what the ALDE Party could do to help us make the case for remaining within the European Union.

We then moved on to discuss preparations for the ALDE Party Congress in Amsterdam in early December. We have established a delegation, all of whom have been informed of their success in obtaining a place  we had far more applications than there were places available. There is, increasingly, an expectation that our delegates will play an active role at Congress  participating in policy debates, attending fringe meetings -especially as there is so much latent demand for involvement.

The future of the Partys non-UK organisation also came up for discussion. The past year has seen a rapid increase in the membership of Brussels and Europe Liberal Democrats  there are now more than 2,000 members  and with that has come a realisation that restructuring is essential. Complicating matters is the need to ensure that compliance issues are properly dealt with, especially those related to finances, and it appears that a solution has been arrived at, thanks to the work of the Party President, the Compliance team in Great George Street, and Harriet, our International Officer.

We then had the pleasure of a presentation from Bart Somers, the Mayor of Mechelen, in Belgium, who won the World Mayor Award for 2016, in part for his work on inclusion within his community. He told of how he had broken down segregation in the community by ensuring that schools did not become monocultures, and that youth facilities became more welcoming to the wider population. Despite major problems in some parts of Belgium, radicalisation within the Muslim community in his town has been avoided, and the community as a whole has been strengthened tremendously.

Finally, we discussed policy issues. I have been concerned for some time that the way FIRC handles policy is ad hoc and inefficient in nature. For example, we had earlier discussed possible policy motions to submit to the ALDE Party Congress. No detail, just some themes which could be written up. Given that there is a Congress every year, you might think that work would start on that well in advance, and that, perhaps, a member of the Committee might be encouraged to lead on this. So, I proposed that we set up a sub-committee to take this work on, as there is never time at full FIRC meetings to do anything meaningful.

In truth, the response was lukewarm, and it was decided that we would drift along as we always have. I am disappointed, but will look into less formal means of improving things.

So, a meeting that was in parts inspiring, in others challenging, but still somewhat frustrating. FIRC could be better, and hopefully it will be. But it does require some prodding from the outside, and for members of the Committee to be held to account rather more than they currently are.

* Mark Valladares is a directly elected member of the Federal International Relations Committee.
All former leaders get a keynote speech at the first Conference after they step down. Tim Farrons was, as you would expect, loud, funny in parts, optimistic, loyal and ended by giving the party a serious mission.

There was a lot of love in the room for that man.

I was at Euston the other day and a lady came up to me, half my size but still somehow able to look down her nose at me.

She said well, Im not surprised you stepped down! Never trust a man who wears doctor marten shoes!

If only wed known. Id have worn the boots instead, cherry red with yellow laces up to my knees. And that would be the only thing Id change.

Im not giving up, so this wont be a giving up speech. And Im not retiring,

I mean I turned down celebrity Dancing on Ice!

Because Lembit Opik is a friend. Not a blueprint.

Look, Im not going to give you a long list of advice  Im not Paddy.

Just one bit of advice really, its this:

If you have joined this party as a fast track to a career in politics, then your careers officer wants sacking.

This is not the place if you want an easy life. It is the place to be if you want to make a difference.

31 years ago I joined the Liberals.

Like the rest of you I chose the tough route in politics, I chose that tough route knowingly.

Any old mediocrity can join labour or the tories, hold office, be someone for a bit, but do exactly the same as any other careerist would have done.

But I also know you can only make a difference if you are brave enough to be different.

When I first got elected, getting lost on the parliamentary estate was pretty much a daily event. Its like going to big school for the first time. One night Greg Mulholland and I were trying to find our way out of parliament, and we got lost, its just possible that we might have had a pint.

Anyway, we wandered into the house of lords lobby by mistake and Greg whispered to me I think were in the wrong place to which the policeman on the door responded not in the wrong place sirs, just 30 years too early.

Which tells you something about how folks see the comfortable trajectory of the career politician.

Anyhow, about a week later I decided to join year 6 of Dean Gibson Primary School from Kendal on their tour around parliament. Everything I know about whats where in parliament I got from that guided tour.

As the tour progressed we ended up again in the House of Lords lobby, and I got distracted by Geoffrey Howe moving rather slowly out of the chamber and into the lobby.

I dont mind telling you, I was rather star struck, I mean he was chancellor of the exchequer when I was at school!

One of the kids saw who I was looking at, and she said who is he? and I said thats Geoffrey Howe, he brought down Margaret Thatcher and she said, whos Margaret Thatcher?

Which goes to show that, you know, there is some justice.

Margaret Thatcher love her or not, was a great leader, immensely significant, and, apparently forgettable.

Those whose driving motivation is a glittering career, the fulfilment of personal ambition, are not only vain, their efforts are in vain.

Careerism is futile. But changing peoples lives isnt. So winning elections isnt.

These last two years, we have begun to win again.

And we have a great, new leader in Vince.

He is exactly what we need, just when we need it  and I still aim to encourage, inspire and support you as we seek to win, in councils and in parliaments, in your community, and across our country.

To me, the tories arent the enemy, labour arent the enemy, defeat is the enemy.

Because defeat robs us of the ability to make peoples lives better.

The Womens Hour survey last week showed that the South Lakes is the best place in the north for women to live and it was pretty clear why, because of housing, affordable housing.

And thats down to us. Having built something like a thousand social rented properties, the liberal democrats have halved the housing waiting list.

It wasnt rocket science: you have a vision, a plan to make peoples lives better, you inspire your volunteers you inspire the voters, you win, you change peoples lives.

I joined this party because I agreed with it. I stayed in this party because I fell in love with it. Because this is the party that is in no ones pocket. This is the party that lets you think for yourself

This is the party that treats people like people, not pawns in an ideological game. This is the party riddled with compassion, and we are terminally infected with optimism. And guided by rational thought, by a refreshing wisdom in the face of extremism and dogma.

Given that we are now led by the wisest person on the planet, its probably a good time for me to tell you that it is this partys wisdom that I love the most. Wisdom is not always popular, but wisdom is what any country needs, especially this country and especially now.

You can win elections and win power by being crafty and clever. But you only do any good by being wise.

But choosing wisdom over populism can leave you pretty lonely. Just look at our record of being right, but standing alone. We spoke out about climate change decades before anyone else. And we were right

We spoke out about the impending banking collapse before anyone else. And we were right.

We called for Britain to join Europe from the start. And we were right.

We opposed the illegal Iraq war. And we were right. We called for Britain to take our fair share of refugees. We were right. We are right.

And we said that leaving the EU is the biggest mistake we have made in a hundred years and that we should resist it. And we are right.

But I am fed of being right and getting beat.

And when I took on the leadership of this party, we had been beaten beyond our worst nightmares.

It had been an honour to see Nick Clegg and our team in government put liberalism into practice for 5 years in coalition, but in July 2015 the question was not whether we would return to government it was whether we would survive at all.

Our challenge wasnt trust or defending our record in government, it was far bigger and more basic than that.

Our challenge was basic relevance.

We simply didnt matter.

And because of the disaster of 2015, I was the first and hopefully last lib dem leader to fight a general election when we werent even the third party.

90% of our MPs defeated, 50% of our councillors defeated, 50% of our members departed. Ejected as the 3rd party.

Dismissed as irrelevant.

The day I took over as leader one journalist predicted confidently that the party that began with Gladstone will now end with Farron.

So that was cheerful.

Well, not cheerful, but utterly motivating to me. I saw those assumptions that we were dead and buried and I resolved that we were going to survive and we were going to grow and we were going to matter and we were going to win again.

The Liberal movement that gave us the welfare state, the old age pension, freedom of religion, the health service, LGBT equality, council housing.

The Liberal movement of Gladstone, Lloyd George, Shirley Williams, Jo Grimond, Nancy Sear, Charles Kennedy  the movement I joined as a 16 year old, was not going to die on my watch.

And so 2 years ago, in this very hall, I set you a challenge and you rose to that challenge, you picked a ward and you won it, we had the first local election gains for our party in 8 years, we grew our membership, we took risks, we made ourselves matter.

We saved the Liberal Democrats and I am proud of every single one of you.

In the early hours of the 24th June 2016 I took our biggest risk. A considered risk.

You see, unlike David Cameron, I had made a plan as to what we would do if the EU referendum was lost.

It was a simple plan, and it was to stick to our principles

It was to defiantly say that the Britain we love is a Britain that loves the world.

That the Britain we love is open, tolerant, united, it is not insular, suspicious and divided.

That to be a patriot is to do what is best for your country what is best for your childrens future.

I respect the majority, because I am a democrat.

But I resist Brexit and I want the people to have the chance to change and rescue their future, because I am a patriot.

June 24th 2016 was a long day, but it was a day we turned a corner, with a conviction and clarity that meant for the first time in ages we actually seemed to matter

It was an especially long day if you worked in the Lib Dem membership department.

When I arrived at HQ that morning everyones eyes were fixed on a TV screen, not BBC, ITV, Sky, no, the screen that displays the partys current membership figures.

That number was rising at the rate of a new member every single second, and it went on, and on and on and we grew and grew and grew.

We made a risky call that morning, but since then our membership has doubled to 105,000, the highest it has ever been in the history of our party.

We had the best run in council by-elections for more than a generation, we had Witney and then we had Richmond Park.

We experienced something we had hardly experienced for years: winning, and the joy and energy and momentum that comes from winning, which leads to more winning!

And for all the challenges of the June election, for the first time in four general elections, our party came back with an increase in MPs and our most diverse parliamentary party ever.

I said during the campaign that my motivation for fighting the madness of Brexit was that I wanted to look my children straight in the eye in the years to come and say that I did everything, everything to prevent this disaster.

And that is still my motivation.

It is not too late. The Britain we love can still be saved. Do not give up.

We will be mocked, we will be vilified, we will be snarled at as enemies of the people, remoaners, losers and it will feel easier to walk away, to keep your head down, to change the subject.

Believe me, since the referendum there were times when I was tempted to do that.

But I remembered Charles Kennedy.

I remembered Charles Kennedy stood in the Commons speaking wisdom and reason as Tories and Labour ganged up to take us into that illegal war in Iraq, I remember Charles being screamed at for being a traitor, and hounded for daring to stand up to Bush and Blair.

And I remember public opinion against us at first. I remember Charles determination to keep going all the same, he was right, he knew it and he wasnt going to let it go.

And as the months went by and our cause was proven right and just, the mood changed and Britain agreed that Charles Kennedy was right.

We need to follow Charles example today.

We are right, we will be proven right, we must not give up.

But lets not fixate on the disaster that is Brexit, let us build the positive case for a Europe that is Britains home.

Back in 1977, at the height of the Cold War, Jimmy Carter sent a recorded message up into space on board the voyager spacecraft.

He said we are trying to survive our time so that we may live into yours.

Well, Voyager has now left the solar system and so far we have survived.

When he recorded those words the nuclear arms race was at its most terrifying. Six countries who are now members of the European Union had nuclear weapons on their soil, pointed at us. But today, instead of plotting one anothers annihilation we are friends who trade and share a destinyor at least we did.

The European Union is flawed, imperfect, in need of reformfor sure but in its sinews and veins, in its very existence, it remains beyond compare the worlds most successful peace process.

That is why I will not let it go, get over it, suck it up.

Patriots are never populists. Because patriots tell their country the truth, it is a treacherous act to tell lies to your country, Boris .. or to be a coward, acquiescing while lies gain a foothold, Jeremy.

So we must tell the truth. Britains exit from the European Union will make, is making, my country poorer, my country less safe, my country less powerful and it is damaging the future for our children.

Of course there is one promise that Brexit will fulfil. It will reduce immigration, without changing a single law. Because if you turn Britain into a poorer, meaner, insular place, no one in their right mind will choose to come here.

So the Tories are breaking Britain to repel the immigrants. And they do it with Labours shameful connivance. What a disgrace!

You want to know why we need Liberals?

That is why we need Liberals.

You can be a Corbyn or a May and change your mind on Europe to suit the weather.

Too afraid of the people to ever deserve to lead them.

Leadership requires couragenot cowardice.

We stand between two parties led by cowards.

We stand between two parties leading Britain to disaster.

And people know it.

They vote for one because theyre terrified of the other.

We must give people hope to vote for not fear to vote against.

Britain deserves something better. Liberal Democrats are that something better.

Theresa May. With whom in the early 1990s I once shared a ballot paper, and a hairstyle, Rick Astleys hairstyle to be precise. We wore it well.

Let me say this about Theresa May. When she and I fought North West Durham in 1992, she did actually turn up to the debates!

It didnt do her any good mind, not that it did me any good either  But today she embodies perfectly the bankruptcy of the Tory party.

People act surprised that her manifesto was a vacuous disaster.

Why the surprise?

Why would the Tories bother with a serious manifesto  the only conviction they have is that people like them should run the country.

Holding office is more important than wielding power. Policies are mere details, why would you bother with those?

Theresa May, is still in number 10 because the Tories think that however dreadful she is, everyone else is worse.

And you can see their point.

You see, once upon a time, Michel Barnier would have croissants and coffee for breakfast, now he has David Davis.

Every flipping day.

Its embarrassing because my kids future depends on this circus, in which our representatives are the clowns and the rest of Europe is the audience, not sure whether to laugh at us, shout at us, or increasingly to just to walk away and spend their time on something less boring.

Because this is what this Conservative government is really doing.

Its making Britain weaker, smaller and less important.

Its making Britain smaller overseas, and its making Britain smaller at home.

Diminishing our schools as this summer, most head teachers had to lay off staff because of budget cuts

Letting our NHS shrink, demoralising clinicians, betraying patients

Pushing those who were just about managing into poverty and family crisis

After the dementia tax disaster, going from a bad plan to no plan for the future of social care

Turning its back on affordable and social housing

Cutting rail investment

Downgrading the green energy revolution that Nick and Ed delivered in government

Brexit was never just about being out of Europe, it was always part of a wider plan: to shrink the state, cut the green crap, small government, weak citizens, everyone for themselves, a small Britain, a weak

Britain, a mean Britain.

But that is not our Britain.

And this menace to our future is multiplied because the official opposition is a joke.

The party of Atlee, Gaitskell, Wilson, Callaghan, Blair and Brown is now run by the kind of people who used to try to sell me newspapers outside my students union. A party which now has more in common with Class War than they do with the Fabian Society.

But Labours election result in June was better than expected.

Labour MPs won who had expected to lose. And so we have the born again Corbynistas.

Those who fought to get rid of him then, but who are happy to support him now.

I say this to the majority in Labour who are social democrats

You may have saved your seats, but you have lost your party.

Id argue that Labours most effective leader was actually Neil Kinnock. Blair would never have won without him.

Kinnock took a party in the grip of the extreme left, and he transformed it -he made it a social democratic party not a hard left socialist party.

Hard left socialism is an assault on our economy, an assault on our internationalism, an assault on our liberty. If you are social democrat in labour today, you know that.

and if youre breathing a sigh of relief that you held on in June, you need to have a good long look at yourself.

You do not belong now to the party that you joined. You know that Labours leadership would keep us apart from Europe, trash our economy and lead us to the worst austerity in living memory.

And you know that the people who would suffer the most wouldnt be the rich it would be the poorest.

It would be those who most rely on strong public services, health, social care, schools, welfare, pensions.

Those who would suffer from extreme socialism would be the many and not the few.

But for the thousands of labour members across the country who know this, its too late to do a Kinnock now,.

You have lost your party for at least a generation.

Your party has left you, so its time for you to leave it.

Because it is now clear if there is to be a realignment of progressive forces then it can only be around this party.

Liberal Democrats, we should embrace that role, seize this moment, lead that movement.

So our job is to do good, not to attempt to leave vain personal legacies.

Careerism is futile. But there is nothing wrong with ambition, so long as your ambition is to do the right thing.

For me, I joined the party at 16, Ive been a student activist, union President, councillor, parliamentary candidate in a winnable seatthat I lost, and then won, so then an MP, shadow cabinet, party president, party leader.

I guess if I had personal ambition, then Ive done everything I realistically could have done.

So now is the time to do what I love to do.

And with a bit more time on my hands, I have done a bit more running, seen a lot more of my kids and I co-authored a book with JK Rowling.

Well, sort of.. we both wrote chapters in the RAM album book which came out a fortnight ago.

She wrote about the Violent Femmes and I, as you know, wrote about NWAs straight outta Compton having now established myself as the partys leading authority on gansta rap.

Which is a niche position.

As, some would say, is our position on Brexit.

Indeed despite all the challenges we have faced it is true to say that weve 99 problems but the niche aint one.

But doing what I love, means being here.

I love being a campaigning MP, and I love being part of the lib dem family I have belonged to for 31 years.

So if its alright with you, then Im here for at least the next 31 years too. Which would put me in my 70s which is of course the perfect age to run to be party leader

Weve got a brilliant leader in Vince. A uniquely impressive leadership team in Vince and Jo. Im very very proud to fight under their banner. Just as you have fought under mine, and for which I am so grateful.

And so I want to focus my final words on the most important people in our party. You.

This week, you are here, giving up your time and money.

All year, your work in your communities, fighting elections, running the local party, building our campaigning infrastructure on the ground is what really saved this party.

Half of you joined in the last 2 years, but you are the movement that forces this party through its dark times and which has now filled it with its greatest ever purpose and mission.

You make sacrifices for our cause, you are selfless in your commitment, you are all that stood between this party and oblivion and I salute you all

And now I rejoin your ranks, proud to march alongside you.

Because activist I was since the day I joined, activist I was as leader, activist I remain until the day I die.

On the desperate plight of refugees,; on the dishonesty and calamity of Brexit; on the tragedy of homelessness; the horror of climate change; the chaos in care..

You are the people who will not walk on by, because you cannot walk on by.

That is why you are different and that is why I love you

And that is why our ambition matters.

Britain needs the Liberal Democrats, sanity in economics, compassion for all, a plan for the long term, an exit from Brexit whats not to like?

And theres no one else in our market.

Of course celebrate our survival, but if we love our country then our ambition cannot now just be to survive, it must be to grab this moment, take that space and fill it with all that we have.

When I needed you, you were always there.

But your country needs you now.

It needs you to win, it needs you to grow, it needs you to get behind our outstanding leader and it needs you to believe that you belong to the only movement that can rescue our country and the generations to come from the disaster it now faces.

That is the ambition we all share, that is the ambition that burns within when personal ambition fades,

that is the ambition that gives clarity to our mission, purpose to our campaigns, a reason to fight.

We have made our party matter, now we must make our party win.
As Winter approaches, the last thing you would want is for people to be without money for weeks on end, yet this is what the Government is about to inflict on thousands of benefit claimants as it rolls out Universal Credit. Evidence shows that the 6 week wait (and longer in many cases) for the first payment is causing real suffering and distress.

This morning, Conference will debate an emergency motion calling for the roll-out of Universal Credit to be halted until the problems with it can be fixed. From the Guardian:

The partys work and pensions spokesman, Stephen Lloyd, is to say in a speech on Monday that the party has lost faith in the coalitions flagship welfare reform with its accelerated rollout just weeks away, and that the Conservatives have altered it beyond recognition.

The Tories ideological fixations over universal credit are leading to appalling consequences for thousands of people, he will say. And if it is not checked, stopped right now, in its tracks, so the failings can be addressed, it will be tens of thousands of our fellow citizens slipping into into grotesque levels of debt.

Lloyd is convinced thousands of families will lose their homes unless the policy is rethought, and hopes the Lib Dems will work with Labour and some Conservative MPs to force a change.

I know the shadow secretary of state, Debbie Abrahams. I worked with her on the work and pensions select committee when I was last an MP, he will say. Lets both join together in demanding the government pause the universal credit rollout, and lets do it now, together, before its too late.

* Newshound: bringing you the best Lib Dem commentary in print, on air or online.
Vince Cables debut Conference speech as leader will be very different from Tim Farrons. We wont find him bouncing about the stage. His style is quieter but no less compelling and interesting to listen to.

Below we get a flavour of the thing hell be saying tomorrow, establishing us firmly as the Party of Remain.

On Brexit

A disaster looms. Brexit. The product of a fraudulent and frivolous campaign led by two groups of silly public school boys living their dormitory pillow fights.

And now, thanks to Boris Johnson, they have degenerated into a full-scale school riot with the head teacher hiding, barricaded in her office.

In the real world, we have yet to experience the full impact of leaving Europe. But we have a taste of what is to come in the fall of the value of the pound.

Foreign exchange dealers are not point scoring politicians. Their cold, hard, unsentimental judgement has been, quite simply, that Brexit Britain will be poorer and weaker after Brexit than if we had decided to stay in Europe.

Brexit was described by the Brexit Secretary himself as an operation of such technical complexity that it makes the moon landing look simple.

It is a pity that the Brexit landing is being managed by people who would struggle to get their heads around a toddlers Lego set. They live in a world of infantile fairy tales.

On Labour

We might have expected better from Labour. Many people got behind them in June, expecting a better politics and a better future from him. They are already being betrayed.

Todays Labour Party isnt into problem solving; let alone governing. Jeremy Corbyns acolytes are focused on how to maximise the contradictions of capitalism.

You dont qualify for the Shadow Cabinet these days unless you have studied the Venezuelan guide on how to bankrupt a rich economy.

No wonder they back Brexit. No wonder they lined up behind Theresa May, maximising the chance of chaos and disruption.

Then a few weeks ago the moderates briefly penetrated the Corbyn bunker. They persuaded him that collaborating quite so closely with the class enemy didnt look too good.

So, they have a new policy: to stay in the Single market and Customs Union, possibly; or to leave, maybe. Or maybe to stay in for a bit, and then leave.

I am trying to be kind here: I am trying to understand what they are trying to say. I think the current line is, we should transition to the transition gradually while we prepare for a post-transition world.

This is what they mean by the smack of firm leadership on the biggest issue of the day.

But if Jeremy Corbyn sits on the fence any longer, he is in danger of being sliced up the middle by the serrated edge.

He would do better to get off the fence and refurbish his revolutionary credentials. Jeremy  join us in the Anti Brexit Peoples Liberation Front!

Political adults

What the people want. What the country now desperately needs is some political adults.

Thats you. Thats us.

Fortunately, we are not alone. There are sensible grown-ups in the Conservative party and the Labour Party and the Greens. And beyond them are millions of people deeply worried about what is happening.

We have to put aside tribal differences and work alongside like-minded people to keep the Single Market and Customs Union, essential for trade and jobs;

Europes high environmental and social standards; shared research; help for our poorer regions; cooperation over policing and terrorism.

Europe, of course, needs reform but you dont achieve reform by walking away.

Our position is clear: the Liberal Democrats are the party of Remain.

The government is now stuck in divorce negotiations for which it is hopelessly ill-prepared and internally divided.

So I have some advice for Theresa May now. Take the issue of EU nationals in the UK and UK nationals in Europe out of these negotiations.

Using them as bargaining chips is not merely morally wrong but utterly counter-productive. Put the lives of 4 million people first not the posturing internal politics of the Conservative Party. No ifs, no buts.

The government should declare a Right to Remain  now.

A Referendum

At the end of these tortuous divorce negotiations, the British public must be given a vote on the outcome.

Let me be clear. This is not a call for a re-run  a second referendum  on Brexit.

It is a call for a first referendum on the facts: when we know what Brexit means. We know that our call will, of course, be resented by the Brexit fundamentalists.

We will be denounced as traitors and saboteurs. Im half prepared for a spell in a cell with Supreme Court judges, Gina Miller, Ken Clarke, and the governors of the BBC.

But if the definition of sabotage is fighting to protect British jobs, public services, the environment and civil liberties, then I am a proud saboteur.

Brexiteers will say: we have already voted to leave. How dare you flout democracy.

It is actually quite difficult to follow the argument. It seems to go that consulting the public  having a vote  is undemocratic.

Why? What are they afraid of? Are they afraid that the claims of 350m a week for the NHS wont wash any more?

That claim has rightly been dismissed by the UK Statistics Authority. No wonder Boris and the Brexiteers are so afraid of the people, and the facts.

They now believe in the slogan of dictators everywhere: one person, one vote, once.

We believe the public have a right to change their mind.

* Caron Lindsay is Editor of Liberal Democrat Voice and blogs at Caron's Musings
Our place to talk  an independent website for supporters of the Liberal Democrat party in the UK.

The most-read independent website by and for Lib Dem supporters. Not paid for by trade unions or millionaires.
We have more newsletters

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.

Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates

A paramedic with West Midlands Ambulance Service was assaulted by a patient near Lichfield early on Saturday morning (September 16).

A crew was called to treat the patient at a petrol filling station at Rykneld Street, Fradley at 3.09am.

There, a paramedic officer was assaulted.

A spokesman for WMAS said: The patient, a male in his 20s, assaulted one of the crew that attended to him.

There was an update that he was getting aggressive. Then a call to say there had been an assault.

Paramedic area support officer Mark Hayes was dispatched to the scene along with a second ambulance. The police were also asked to attend which they did.

A second crew transported the patient to Burton Hospital while Mark dealt with the first crew.

A spokesman for Staffordshire Police said: On September 16 at around 4am we were called to reports a paramedic had been assaulted at a petrol station in Rykneld Street, Fradley, Lichfield.

A 29-year-old man from Birmingham has been arrested on suspicion of assault and released under investigation.
THE closure of the 150-year-old footbridge in Newcastle West is affecting peoples livelihoods, Cllr Michael Collins FF has warned. And he is seeking an early date for it to be re-opened to pedestrians.

The footbridge was closed early in August as part of a 56,000 upgrading of the town centre funded jointly by the Rural Economic Development Zone REDZ scheme and Limerick City and County Council.

The project, targeting the Square, Maiden St and Bridge St, included decluttering of signs, the installation of finger signs, repairing of footpaths, restoring heritage-style lighting and painting the footbridge.

However, councillors were told at a meeting of Newcastle West Municipal District last week that some problems with the wrought iron structure had been discovered at the bridge and it was no longer a simple question of painting it.

Area engineer Padraig Vallely said there were structural problems with the handrails which needed to be replaced and these would take some time to acquire. We have to apply for funding to cover our costs, he said.

Until then, the bridge will have to remain closed for safety reasons.

Cllr Collins, who described the bridge as a significant piece of local heritage, was disappointed at the hold up. It is affecting peoples livelihoods and the business of North Quay, he said.

The cost of repairing the bridge was significant, Cllr Jerome Scanlan said. However, he added: That bridge would have fallen into the river if we hadnt planned to paint it. The rust didnt show.
I HAVE found what I wanted to do in life, an emotional Mike OConnell, high-profile Limerick businessman and farmer, told a recent gathering at his farm in Clarina.

That something is Social Farming, an idea which bowled Mike over when he first came across it five years on a visit to the UK. In fact, he explained, he was so taken with the concept that he immediately phoned his wife to tell her he had found his calling. And for the past two years, Mike has put action behind those words and become a pioneer of Social Farming in Limerick, working in conjunction with West Limerick Resources.

At the formal launch of Social Farming in Limerick, Mike spelled out why. I was reared on a very small farm, he explained. His father had to take a job off farm and his mother worked at home. I always loved the farm. I probably got it from my mam, he said. I always believed, even as a teenager, a farm had something to offer to the community and I still believe that.

Social Farming is a relatively new concept in Ireland but it probably answers something deep and old as the hills within the Irish character: the idea that closeness to nature and to the land can bring a sense of well-being.

At its simplest, Social Farming is based on the idea that involvement with the land brings benefits to people in need of support in their communities. When it began it was aimed at people with special needs or people with mental or physical health issues but since then it has widened to include young people at risk, the long-term unemployed and early school leavers.

It was first piloted in Leitrim and five other border counties as well as the six counties of Northern Ireland, explains Helen Doherty, national co-ordinator Social Farming Ireland.

Now we are rolling it out in the 20 remaining counties, she grinned. And West Limerick Resources, she explained, will be leading that roll-out in the south west.

The outcomes for people who get involved are fantastic, she enthused. And this is true, both for the farmers and for the participants.

In fact, according to Dr Aisling Moroney, researcher and evaluator for Social Farming Ireland, many farmers report that they learn more from the participants than the participants learn from them. And farmers are increasingly signing up to the project, she explained. There is a great deal of positivity about it, she continued and her job is not simply to tell the story, but to do justice to that positivity through hard evidence.

Among the positive outcomes for participants she has noted are a sense of well-being arising out of physical activity and physical work and from working with animals as well as the satisfaction of contributing. For farmers, the scheme provides a social aspect in what is often a lonely job but also contributes, in a small way, to their livelihood.

Richie Bowens, who works with Foroiges Youth Diversion Project in West Limerick, is equally enthusiastic. It caught my interest straight away, he said. It is something that young people would positively engage with and benefit from. A particularly crucial aspect, as far as he was concerned, were the relationships built between participants and farmers over the ten week span of each scheme. Those relationships were cross-generational but also ones of friendship.

The participants told it in their own words. Patrick OBrien, Abbeyfeale, has just completed his 10 weeks on Mike OConnells farm, along with Eddie Kavanagh, Dean Kennelly and Jake Bolger, and just loved it. Asked to describe Mike, whom he calls grandpa, he said: He is a kind man, a gentleman and a helping man.

Patrick jumped at the chance to get on a farm although he is a townie I always wanted to do something like this, he explained. Now, his hope is to get a job on a farm and to do a course which would build on what he has already learned.

Michael Manaher is from Athea and one of a group from the HSE Gortboy Training Centre in Newcastle West, who are half-way through their time at the OConnell farm. It is really something I look forward to, he told the Limerick Leader. I like working with the horses and I like being around animals.

Fellow participant Patrick Madden is equally upbeat about it. It is very nice, he said. I enjoy it.

Donal Cooper, the instructor at Gortboy, said they were the second group to avail of the scheme. It is very good for people to get out into the air, away from the TV and XBox. They are much fitter and it is better than going to any gym.

He too had nothing but praise for Mike OConnell saying: He has helped the trainees come out of themselves. There is always very good feedback.

I think it is fantastic that we can give back to the community and give people an opportunity to experience life in the country, said Mike Flynn, who is a farmer as well as being chairman of West Limerick Resources. And he encouraged other farmers to find out about Social Farming and to think about getting involved. It brings back the old community spirit that has gone, he said.

It is an exciting initiative. It is something different, Shay Riordan, manager of West Limerick Resources said, explaining that a lot of time and effort had gone into getting the bones of the scheme right.

One thing we are very clear about, this is not about getting cheap labour for a farmer, he told the Limerick Leader. It is about providing a positive experience to people who might benefit from it.

Farms, he added, can be very interesting places. Mike OConnell, Social Farmer, agrees. He has known that all his life. And now he has convinced others too.
LIMERICK City and County Council is ramping up its preparation for Christmas in Rathkeale in an attempt to curb antisocial behaviour.

Adare Rathkeale council members were presented with plans this week to provide for new road ramps to reduce speeding through the town  a problem exacerbated when the population swells during the festive period.

Councillors were also told that there will be an increased focus of resources in Rathkeale, and that any legal proceedings that need to be taken will be dealt with as soon as possible.

Some of the other key issues identified in Rathkeale over Christmas are the parking of caravans illegally, litter and dumping.

Council Engineer Thomas Kelly said that the plan is to focus on infrastructural changes to change driver behaviour.

Ramps that stretch across the full width of the road and tabletops  ramps that allow pedestrians to cross  are both included in the draft plans.

Build outs  sections of the road that are narrowed  are planned for the New Line Road and Main Street in the town.

Mr Kelly explained that tabletops make pedestrians more dominant and drivers less dominant.

It is estimated that the road works will cost 180,000 plus VAT. But there is no provision at the moment in the districts budget, and the money will have to be taken from elsewhere.

Council executive Caroline Curley said that things have to be prioritised, and we want to prioritise this area this year. Mr Kelly said that the plans are on track to be done before this Christmas.

Cllr Adam Teskey suggested that the types of heavy vehicles being brought into the town may be less affected by ramps than smaller cars.

Cllr Richard ODonoghue commended the council for forward-thinking on the detailed plans.

Cllr Stephen Keary said that he would like to see a ramp installed on Thomas Street.

Draft plans to make Main Street a one-way street were also revealed, but councillors were told that if they want to go down that route, it will not be done this year.
THE ribbon has been cut on Cois Carraig in Clarina village which is the first development of its kind in County Limerick - a housing estate aimed specifically at the over 50s.

When ATG Properties took over what was an unfinished estate three years ago, there were briars and trees growing in the windows of the houses and half constructed trenches on the open ground.

From an aesthetic perspective and from a health and safety perspective, it was a disaster so with the assistance of Limerick County Council we got together and weve developed it to a stage where we now have 18 houses built and we have a further 30 to go, explained Muriel O'Sullivan, managing director of ATG Properties.

There is a mixture of couples and single people. The only requirement that we have is that you must be over 50 years of age.

Widow Ann Reidy was the first resident to move into the estate 10 years ago.

I will be here 10 years in December because the whole project collapsed and was sitting there. I was looking out at it for all those years and then ATG Properties along came and took it over and now its brilliant. I was there on my own for about seven or eight months until Bill Davis arrived. As time went on, more were occupied, the 71-year-old explained.

I just love the camaraderie - we all know everyone. Its just a lovely community. Its perfect. We have an active retirement club and you are only six minutes from the city, you have a supermarket across the road and its in off the road. I feel like Ive come back home.

To the best of Muriel OSullivans knowledge, a development of this kind hasnt been done before in Limerick.

We inherited that idea (aiming the development at the over 50s) because we bought an unfinished estate and that clause was in it, Ms OSullivan explained.

We have two estates in one here, we have Cois Carraig which is two-bedroom dormer homes for over 50s and Cluain Aoibh which is three-bedroom semi-detached. This element here, when we bought it, that was a stipulation that was in the planning permission and its attached to the title so if somebody who is over 50 buys a home and they want to sell it in three years time they must again sell it to somebody who is over the age of 50.

At the moment, nine of the homes in Cois Carraig are occupied.

They buy them outright. To be honest, we are selling them faster than we can build them. There are three left at 183,000 and in the second phase they will probably be at around 190,000, said Ms OSullivan.

It is anticipated, she added, that they will be completed within 18 months to two years.

A report by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) has suggested that empty nesters be encouraged to downsize and free up housing for first-time buyers struggling to get on the first step of the property ladder.

I would say 80% of people who have moved in here so far have sold their own house to move in, explained Ms OSullivan, so they are freeing up three and four bed family homes.

From a national interest perspective, in terms of addressing the housing issue, when you consider that all of these people are leaving a three or four bedroom house then its a quicker way of housing families.

Its a quicker way for people like Minister Eoghan Murphy to address the housing shortage, said Ms O'Sullivan.
OPERATION Thor, which aims to crack down on crime, has been extended in the Northside of Limerick city until the end of October to deal with antisocial behaviour.

An Garda Siochana has decided to carry on with the operation, which actively targets organised gangs and repeat offenders based on intelligence and the latest crime trends, following incidents of violence this year around the Old Cratloe Road.

Chief Superintendent David Sheahan confirmed at a Joint Policing Committee meeting in City Hall last Friday that the increased resources in the area will remain in place until the end of the next month.

Sinn Fein TD Maurice Quinlivan welcomed the news. He commended the gardai for the great work that has been done already, but said that the job is not yet done.

I am happy to hear that Operation Thor is to be extended to the Northside of the city, as this will assist with the ongoing efforts to stamp out crime and anti-social behaviour, particularly in the Old Cratloe Road area, said Deputy Quinlivan.

In addition to the recently installed CCTV cameras, I hope the extension of this Garda operation will result in a reduction in crime and intimidation in the area.

The residents in this locality have had to deal with criminality, attacks, anti-social behaviour, and intimidation at the hands of individuals who have no respect for the law, he added.

Earlier this year, the community had been suffering at the hands of from Mr Quinlivan called a large group of teenagers roaming around and randomly assaulting total strangers with apparent impunity.

A spate of assaults and antisocial behaviour in the Old Cratloe Road and Caherdavin area in recent months prompted gardai to put the operation in place.

The State has a duty to ensure that the rights of decent people to live peacefully in their communities, walk the streets and bring up their families, without fear or intimidation are upheld, said Mr Quinlivan.

This issue has gone on for way too long and allowed to fester and worsen, he added, saying that Sinn Fein would commit to stamping out the problem.
SOMEBODY somewhere must know what happened.

Eighteen years ago, Desmond Walsh, aged 25, from Dromkeen, was last seen in Limerick city. He was last seen by two nurses in the Works nightclub in Bedford Row at 2am on September 18, 1999.

The pain is as raw for mum Julia as it was when the gardai rang her back in 1999. To compound her grief, Des disappeared in the early hours of her birthday, on September 18. She has never celebrated the date.

Julia and ex-policewoman Catherine Costello, co-founder of the voluntary Searching for the Missing group, and who has investigated the circumstances thoroughly, believe Des was killed.

It is every parents worst nightmare, Julia has said.

Somebody, somewhere must know what happened to Des and we are appealing to them to come forward and pass on information confidentially. They have been living with this for years, she added.

Julia stresses that she doesnt want a criminal conviction and all she wants is closure.

Her husband, Thomas, passed away two years after Des disappeared. Julias wish is that if Dess body is found he could be buried with his father and she could visit their graves together.

One of the reasons she believes that her sons life was taken is that he was badly beaten up some time before September 18.

He worked in Dell as a security guard and went into work one day black and blue. This would have been completely out of character for Des, who was a very mild-mannered and personable young man.

Gardai in Roxboro can be contacted at 061 214340 if you have any information.
THE CONDITION of a woman has been described as "serious" following a river rescue in Limerick city this Monday evening.

At 6.23pm, Limerick City Fire and Rescue Service was informed that a woman, aged in her 30s, had entered the River Shannon at Arthur's Quay.

On arrival, the emergency service dispatched its Swiftwater Rescue technician firefighters to the scene of the incident.

A source said that an off-duty firefighter and passerby had also entered the river and kept the woman afloat.

"A passing boat assisted for approximately 3/4 minutes until the Fire Service boat arrived on scene."

The woman was treated by firefighters and HSE paramedics after she was brought to the slipway at St Michael's Rowing Club at O'Callaghan Strand.

She was then brought to University Hospital Limerick "where her condition is described as serious".

Contact Aware at 1800 804848, the Samaritans at 116 123 or Pieta House at 1800 247247.
We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.
British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said on Sunday that the United Kingdom's terrorism threat level has been lowered from "critical" to "severe" after being raised to the highest possible in the wake of the Friday explosion at a subway station in west London.

Rudd made the statement after British police arrested two suspects in connection of the explosion in a packed rush-hour carriage on Friday at Parsons Green subway station.

The level of "critical", the highest of the five levels used to describe the threat, means a further terrorist attack may be imminent. The level of "severe" is the second highest level.

The threat level system, introduced on Aug. 1, 2000, is based on available intelligence, terrorist capability, terrorist intention and timescale.

The two suspects -- one is 18 and the other is 21 -- were arrested by British police on Saturday.

Thirty people were injured in the explosion, none of them seriously, in the wake of the subway blast, prompting the police to stage a massive hunt for those who are responsible for the fifth terrorist attack in the country over the past six months.

Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the Friday subway explosion.
The Handmaids Tale sweeps The Emmys 'Big Little Lies' was the other big winner on a night that saw Riz Ahmed snag an acting Emmy and Lena Waithe and Aziz Ansari a writing one /news/talking-point/the-handmaid-s-tale-sweeps-the-emmys-111646979324539.html 111646979324539 story

Based on the dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood, The Handmaids Tale won Best Drama Series, Best Actress for Moss, Best Direction, Best Supporting Actress for Ann Dowd and Best Writing. Photo: AP

Stephen Colbert is smarter than you. Thats his brand. The Late Show host is smarter, cheekier, more aware and more in on the joke than the people making up the joke  which is what makes him such a superb choice as awards show host. If you arent laughing at Colbert, hes laughing at you. So began the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards with Colbert mocking the premise itself  TVs highest honour: Us celebrating us. Tonight, we binge ourselves"  while television stars from Stranger Things and Modern Family wiped away tears of laughter.

Colbert stayed crisp, current, and characteristically kept things political  like when he spoke of the plethora of original programming being created every year that no one person can keep up with other than the President, who seems to have time for that sort of thing". The Donald Trump digs were less savage then hoped for, but  in a controversial comic moment  Colbert wheeled out Trumps former White House Communications director Sean Spicer to tell him how popular the Emmy broadcast was going to be and thus assuage his fragile ego. He then thanked Spicer by referring to him as Melissa McCarthy, who unforgettably played Spicer on Saturday Night Live this season.

Also read: Emmy Awards 2017 was pitch-perfect

When the Emmy nominations came out in July, there was significant heartbreak: The Leftovers, BoJack Horseman, Insecure, Ted Danson from The Good Place, and Michael McKean from Better Call Saul were all nowhere to be seen. Yet, this is the year Emmy voters will be remembered for showing us that they were unafraid  of diversity, of ignoring Westworld, and of watching a television show that made them look like they had read the book. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the year of The Handmaids Tale.

Adapted by Bruce Miller and starring a stupendous Elisabeth Moss in the title role, The Handmaids Tale won big at the Emmys. Based on the dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood, the show won Best Drama Series, Best Actress for Moss, Best Direction, Best Supporting Actress for Ann Dowd and Best Writing. At the end of the show, the celebrated Canadian novelist took the stage with the cast and crew in a moment that seems to demonstrate how pop culture has shifted, urgently, toward the relevant.

Nicole Kidman and Laura Dern deservedly pick up awards for their sterling performances in Big Little Lies.

The other major winner of the night was Big Little Lies, a wonderfully acted yet not extraordinary show about domestic violence, which saw actresses Nicole Kidman and Laura Dern deservedly pick up awards for their sterling performances. Of the actresses left out in the cold this year, the most rankling omission is that of the two ladies from Feud: Bette And Joan, with Susan Sarandons brassy Bette Davis and Jessica Langes exceptional Joan Crawford losing out  ironically, given the theme of that show, this appears almost egregious enough to label the Emmys ageist.

Riz Ahmed was rewarded for his work in The Night Of, though the scratchy procedural miniseries did not win any other categories. The other limited series awards  best episode, best writing, best TV movie  went to Charlie Brooker for the San Junipero" episode of his increasingly plausible science-fiction show, Black Mirror.

Lena Waithe (right), who became the first black woman to win an Emmy for writing comedy for Master Of None , with Aziz Ansari.

Master Of None won the Emmy for best writing in a comedy series last year with its superlative "Parents" episode, and this year Aziz Ansaris show repeated the win for its deeply sensitive episode about a young black girl coming out, Thanksgiving". The episode was written by Ansari and Lena Waithe, who became the first black woman to win an Emmy for writing comedy.

The big disappointment for me at the Emmys this year was Outstanding Comedy Series going to Veep, which really faltered this year. The political satire still has an astounding ratio of gags-per-minute, but its desperation to turn its protagonist mean-spirited  while possibly inevitable considering the current political climate  is not consistent to her character. Selina Meyer has now crossed the line from character to caricature, and while Julia Louis-Dreyfus is a goddess and deserves her Best Actress trophy (especially for the Mother" episode this year), the show is not true to itself and seems only to indulge in one note. We do not root for the character any more, like we did in the superb fifth season, but now merely laugh at the lines. It is a fine show, but a lesser one.

Then again, Veep winning the highest comedy accolade of the night might not be a triumph of the show at all. Perhaps it is America trying to reassure itself that it knows how to vote for a woman.
New Chinese embassy a sign of stronger ties between China and Panama

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Chinas new embassy in Panama City would promote mutually beneficial cooperation and achieve common development for China and Panama, during the building's inauguration in Panama on Sunday.

Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and Vice President and Foreign Minister Isabel de Saint Malo also attended the event.

Wang said that history would show that the establishment of diplomatic relations with China was the right strategic choice.

Wang also sent a message to Chinese nationals living in Panama that the embassy would become a new home for them and provide better services for Chinese investors.

Wang also confirmed that Valera would visit China later this year at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, adding that China is looking forward to welcoming him.

Varela said after that after the establishment of diplomatic relations, both sides have already managed huge achievements, saying that geographical distance would not affect friendly contact between the two countries.

Wang and Varela also attended the inauguration ceremony of the Confucius Institute at Panama University. Wang said the opening should encourage more cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Varela reiterated Panamas commitment to the One China principle and expressed his support for the Belt and Road Initiative.

Wang arrived in Panama City on Saturday for his first official visit and was received by President Varela and Vice President Saint Malo in the Palace of Las Garzas.

His visit followed the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides in summer after Panama severed links with Taiwan.
A Buddha statue inside an ancient camphor tree has attracted many visitors to Kaoting village in Jianyang, Fujian province.

The clay statue, some 60 centimeters tall, can be seen from a small hole about 1 meter above the foot of the massive tree, which is believed to be over 1,000 years old.

According to folklore, the statue was built for commemoration after the death of Chinese philosopher Zhu Xi (1130-1200), and was placed in the tree through a crack on the trunk.

Afterwards the crack gradually healed, hence the wonder people see today.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Nine months after the Golden Gate National Recreation Area approved final rules restricting off-leash dog walking on much of its turf, the policy has been thrown for another loop.

An amendment proposed by Rep. Jackie Speier would prohibit the National Park Service from restricting canine access to its parklands by prohibiting some funding from being used to finalize, implement, administer or enforce the dog management plan. It passed the House last week with bipartisan support.

This is a 40-year tradition in the Bay Area, and the NPS attempts to ban it have been fraught with corruption and opaque decision making, Speier said in a statement. ... We need to start from scratch in order to have a Dog Management Plan that respects the needs of all GGNRA users, even the furry four-legged ones.

The Hillsborough Democrats amendment was attached to the 2018 budget appropriations bill for the Department of the Interior and related agencies. It now heads to the Senate, where lawmakers will either adopt it or draft their own version of the bill.

ALSO Park Service delays GGNRA dog management plan

The dog management plan has been a 14-year tug-of-war between dog enthusiasts and environmentalists, who have pushed to restrict canine access on federal park lands. The final rules  which would let dogs run free just in six areas within the 80,000-acre area stretching from Marin to San Mateo counties  were approved last year.

But in January, the National Park Service delayed implementation after requests from lawmakers and a public information request from a dog advocacy group unearthed emails showing park employees might not have remained impartial during the process.

I have requested they evaluate and report on how these emails may have impacted the planning, rule making process, and environmental impact study, and make recommendations on how best to proceed given the significant body of work to date  including thousands of comments and more than a decade of analysis, Ray Sauvajot, the Park Service associate director for natural resources stewardship, said in a statement released in May.

Dog groups arent planning to roll over any time soon, said Andrea Buffa, a San Francisco resident and member of Save Our Recreation, an advocacy group wanting to preserve the Park Services land for all types of recreation.

Weve been fighting these restrictions on dog-walking for more than 14 years, and we are not going to ... play dead, Buffa said. This is about us as much as it is about dogs. Dogs dont go to walk on trails and beaches by themselves.

Speiers amendment is proof that she is a champion for the dog community and a fair legislative process, said Martha Walters, an environmental scientist in San Rafael who founded the Crissy Field Dog Group, a nonprofit that advocates for responsible dog ownership.

It has a long way to go, Walters said. But it sends a clear message to the Park Service that she means business and is representing the Bay Area constituents and people who visit the GGNRA. This is about people just wanting to walk their dogs.

Representatives of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area did not respond to calls for comment.

Lizzie Johnson is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ljohnson@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @LizzieJohnsonnn
Thomas B. Shea

More than 20,000 pounds of estimated butane emissions were released Friday night when flames spewed from an Enterprise Products Partners underground storage site in Mont Belvieu.

The Enterprise fire, which was put out late Friday evening, involved natural gas liquids stored in a brine pit at the Mont Belvieu complex. While the cause is still being investigated, it was not related to any damages from Hurricane Harvey, Enterprise spokesman Rick Rainey said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Before the Emmy Awards on Sunday night, Axios editor and political reporter Mike Allen teased that the show would feature a "Washington-related stunt" - and if everything went according to plan, it would be "a big talker."

That turned out to be an understatement. A surprise onstage appearance by Sean Spicer, President Donald Trump's former press secretary, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles immediately became a hotly debated flash point, as the Hollywood crowd cheered Spicer's self-deprecating cameo. However, lots of viewers at home didn't find much humor in an effort to "normalize" a White House official who had delivered statements to the American people that were easily proved false.

"This will be the largest audience to witness the Emmys, period, both in person and around the world," Spicer announced, standing behind a rolling lectern similar to the one that Melissa McCarthy used to mock him with her impersonation on "Saturday Night Live." Spicer's statement was, of course, a reference to his first appearance as press secretary, when he declared, "This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration - period - both in person and around the globe."

Last week, Spicer went on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" (his first stop on an apparent image rehabilitation tour) and essentially admitted that he would say whatever Trump wanted him to, regardless of whether he believed it - and after the inauguration, Trump told him to talk about the crowd size. So, people wondered, who exactly was Spicer making fun of here? Was he throwing the president under the bus?

"No," Spicer told The Washington Post when reached by phone on Monday. "It was an attempt for me to poke a little fun at myself and bring some levity to the situation."

But, by transitive property, wouldn't it also be making fun of the man who back in January demanded that Spicer make the original false statement about the inauguration crowd size?

"That was me at the podium," Spicer said. "It was all about me."

After the Emmys, Spicer flitted about from one party to the next, meeting and having his picture taken with various celebrities - including late-night hosts who raked him over the coals during his tenure, such as Emmys host Stephen Colbert of CBS' "Late Show" and Seth Meyers of NBC's "Late Night."

If he was their enemy, or they his, you'd never know by how Spicer described it.

"I can tell you that by and large people were unbelievably and overwhelmingly respectful and positive," said Spicer, who explained that Colbert's executive producer Chris Licht (a former executive producer of MSNBC's "Morning Joe"), contacted him with the idea. "It speaks a lot to the decorum and civility."

Although Spicer was warmly received by Hollywood stars, many viewers were disheartened at the friendly spectacle.

"The treatment of Spicer is another breakdown of political norms," London School of Economics fellow Brian Klaas tweeted. "If we just joke about and reward people who lie in government, more will."

"Sean Spicer sold his soul to work for Trump and repeatedly lied from the podium. Hilarious!" wrote Tommy Vietor, co-host of the podcast "Pod Save America."

"The degree to which Sean Spicer has faced no consequences is a glimpse into the post-Trump future," added Slate chief political correspondent Jamelle Bouie.

"Ugh NO to Sean Spicer," wrote journalist and author Mark Harris. "It's so great that we can embrace someone who used a powerful position to abuse the press and lie to America."

On Monday afternoon, the Television Academy released the following statement: "The Television Academy is apolitical. Via its 22,000 voting members who work throughout the industry, the Academy recognizes television's excellence and inclusiveness through Emmy nominees and winners. The creative direction of the Emmy show is set by each year's production team and host. We respect their creative choices."

Celebrities who posed with Spicer backstage also encountered criticism, especially James Corden, the host of CBS's "Late Late Show," who was photographed trying to kiss Spicer on the cheek. People compared it to "Tonight Show" host Jimmy Fallon's infamous moment last year when he ruffled Trump's hair during an interview. (Sample tweet: "The only person happy with James Corden kissing Sean Spicer is Jimmy Fallon.")

CBS representatives did not respond for requests for comment about how the idea for Spicer's cameo originated, or questions about whether they had a response to the criticism. Corden's publicist also did not respond to a question about the photo.

The rest of the Emmys telecast, in typical award show fashion, was filled with jokes about Trump (Colbert: "Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote") and pointed words from the celebrities onstage. "Grace and Frankie" stars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin referred to Trump as a "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot."

Spicer said that while most members of the Hollywood elite disagree with him and the president, he found the experience to be "humbling" and joked that he plans to bring back ideas for the D.C. social circuit from Los Angeles.

"They do parties a little differently than D.C.," he said.

In a few weeks, Spicer will head to Harvard University, where he will be a visiting fellow at the Kennedy School's Institute of Politics.
With more than 10,000 volumes, including many rare and hard-to-find books, the Central Librarys Latino Collection and Resource Center is moving to a much more accessible location. Fomerly on the sixth floor, it now occupies 7,000 square feet on the ground floor just off the main lobby. Its a inviting space with a color palette ranging from marigold yellow to warm terra cotta.

The $491,000 expansion, funded about half and half by the city and the San Antonio Public Library Foundation, opens to the public Tuesday with a grand-opening celebration. Mayor Ron Nirenberg and U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett are scheduled to speak.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Friends of the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft knew what to expect during the institution's annual Martini Madness! fall soiree  or so they thought.

All of the usual suspects were present: a scrutable selection of handmade martini glasses, cocktail stations, Photobomb's photo booth, and Greenhouse Catering's signature buffet. But there were surprising new elements, too.

In tribute to this year's Big Apple-theme, "A New York State of Mind," party-goers were encouraged to get into character and don costumes inspired by  who else?  their favorite Manhattan personalities.

The costume contest, sponsored by Ann Kinder, endlessly entertained attendees. Winners Nancy Riviere and Ken Rue dressed up as Liza Minnelli and Andy Warhol, respectively. The latter artist played muse to multiple get-ups, including Heather den Uijl's "Campbells Soup Cans" dress.

After-party arrivals Sarah Ansell and Alex Mata turned heads as the Gatekeeper and Keymaster ala the 1984 cult classic, "Ghostbusters." HCCC supporters also disguised themselves Lady Liberty, members of Warhol's Factor, and the cast of "Friends" for the occasion.

Not to be outdone, a selection of martinis offered by Deep Eddy Vodka and Texas Giant Bourbon Whiskey anchored the festivities. Classic pours such as the Cosmopolitan, Whiskey Smash, and of course, Manhattan, helped fuel the dance party inferno led by DJ Flash Gordon Parks.

In between sets, passed hors d'oeuvres of "old New York" Italian fare swirled through the venue.

Much to event chairs Kara and Ulises Vidal's delight, the swinging party exceeded its goal with more than $80,000 raised. Of that amount, $2,000 will be donated to the Houston Food Bank and the Craft Emergency Relief Fund in support of Texas artists affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Armed with a letter-pressed memento courtesy of the Printing Museum, sweet treats from Morningstar, and those collectible martini glasses, everyone walked away with a crafty souvenir  or three.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Judges, lawyers and legal professionals will be gathering in October to celebrate a historical ceremony and Mass as they seek guidance and wisdom from the Holy Spirit in preparation for the new judicial year.

"The annual Red Mass is a way in which the church and spiritual leaders pray that God's Holy Spirit; the spirit of wisdom, the spirit of peace, the spirit of justice and understanding come upon those that are making decisions for a community that can live in respect of the law, a community that can be united in peace," Diocese of Laredo Bishop James A. Tamayo said.

The Diocese of Laredo, federal and state judiciaries, as well as officials and bar associations from Webb, Maverick, Dimmit, Zavala, La Salle, Zapata and Jim Hogg counties announced the 17th annual Red Mass will take place at the San Agustin Cathedral at 6 p.m. Oct. 3.

Chief Justice Sandee B. Marion of the Texas Fourth District Court of Appeals will be the event's keynote speaker.

READ MORE: Persons of interest in slaying of young Laredo couple in Mexico prison on drug-related charges

The Mass, called the Mass of the Holy Spirit, honors those who are in the judicial profession "so that this judicial year, the decisions they make may be decisions tempered in justice with compassion; may be decisions made in truth and wisdom," Tamayo said.

"And, the overall outcome will be a joy and fulfillment in one's profession as an attorney, as a judge, as a person that brings about a better community in which we live; one who respects the law because the church recognizes laws are made not to bind us but to unite us in a common good."

It differs from a traditional Mass in that the focus of prayer and blessings concentrate on the leadership roles of those present.

For 111th District Court Judge Monica Z. Notzon, the Red Mass is a beautiful event to participate in.

"Personally speaking, it's an almost cleansing experience to participate in the Red Mass because you have so many colleagues and members of the legal profession, even non-lawyers who are members of the legal profession, that all come together to worship and to pray that our new judicial year is one that is filled with understanding and with forgiveness, with clear-headedness," Notzon said.

The event offers the opportunity to witness lawyers who might have been arguing a case the day prior or even the day of the Red Mass in church together unified, according to Notzon.

"We have such solidarity as a legal profession that it has, at least in my perspective, an almost peaceful cleansing, calming effect and it gives you hope that for the new judicial year members of this profession will continue to hold themselves to the highest standards and treat each other with respect and with courtesy," she said.

Tradition

"The Red Mass originated in 13th century France and gradually spread to other parts of Europe," a news release from the Diocese of Laredo states.

The Red Mass received its name from the fact that the celebrants were vested in red and the justices of the court were clothed in scarlet. The use of the red vestments was tied to the votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, since red is the Pentecost color in the Roman Liturgy.

The Red Mass is observed in the Laredo community and all over the country.

Its inauguration in the United States began in New York City on Oct. 6, 1928, according to the New Catholic Encyclopedia.

The Mass coincides with the opening of the October term of the U.S. Supreme Court and is viewed as a blessing of the upcoming work of the Supreme Court and other judges and public officials.

Each year, a Red Mass held at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C., serves as the commencement for Red Masses across the country.

RELATED: Timeline sheds light on escape, eventual capture of man charged in Ochoa Sanchez park homicide

The first Red Mass in Laredo took place in 2001 and has grown in attendance since.

The Diocese of Laredo, federal and state judiciaries, as well as officials and bar associations from the seven counties composing the diocese, Webb, Maverick, Dimmit, Zavala, La Salle, Zapata and Jim Hogg county, come together to plan and celebrate the Red Mass each year.

State and federal judges, public and private lawyers, justices from the Fourth Court of Appeals and various other members of the legal community gather for the Mass.

St. Thomas More, patron saint of lawyers, is honored at the Red Mass.

More was a man of the law and a man of faith.

He is often identified with the Red Mass for his remarkable contributions to English common law and his unwavering faith in the face of tyranny, according to a news release.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Educating hunters as part of managing endangered wildlife was the topic of two presentations by David E. Allen, an interim vice president at TAMIU, at the 28th Annual Conference of the Japanese Society for Environmental Education in Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, northern Japan, in September.

During the English portion of the conference, Allen, lead author, presented "Hunter Education as a Function of Education for Sustainable Development" with Kantaro Tabiraki, doctoral student, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology.

Allen, interim vice president for institutional assessment, evaluation and planning, also presented during the Japanese part of the conference with Tabiraki, lead author and presenter of "A Study on the Role of EE/ESD for Ethical Hunter in Wildlife Management Focusing on the Reintroduction of Oriental White Storks."

READ MORE: Persons of interest in slaying of young Laredo couple in Mexico prison on drug-related charges

According to Allen, the white stork was reintroduced in 2005 to Japan after it became extinct there. The accidental shooting of a protected white stork prompted the need for increased hunter education.

It's not only the shooting of a protected stork. With the number of Japanese residents holding a hunting license decreasing and the dramatic increase in wildlife damage to Japanese agriculture, proper hunter education programs will encourage a balance in the ecosystem.

RELATED: Timeline sheds light on escape, eventual capture of man charged in Ochoa Sanchez park homicide

"This was my fourth visit to Japan and my second time to present at this conference," said Allen.

"I have been very interested in the Japanese culture for several years and with the now available time, my friend and colleague Tabiraki-san invited me to climb Fuji-san (Mt. Fuji) the Japanese way. We arrived at the top of Fuji-san about 4:30 a.m. and watched the sunrise at 5:20 a.m. After the sun was up, we hiked around the crater and visited the actual summit which is the highest place in Japan at 3776 meters (12,389 feet) and then began our descent," Allen added.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

A monitoring review conducted by the Administration for Children and Families states that the Teaching and Mentoring Communities board of directors failed to inform stakeholders and assess the financial impact of relocating its headquarters from Laredo to San Antonio.

TMC, formerly known as the Texas Migrant Council, proposed the relocation early this year. U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar called the proposal a misuse of taxpayers dollars and said it would cut critical services and local jobs.

TMC had said at the time that the cost of its lease was too expensive and that San Antonio was a more convenient location.

But the monitoring review states that "there was no evidence to indicate the (TMC) board of directors engaged in a determination of costs associated with the relocation project in comparison to costs of staying in the current Laredo location."

READ MORE: Persons of interest in slaying of young Laredo couple in Mexico prison on drug-related charges

"When asked for evidence of a cost analysis, neither the (then-interim CEO) nor the board was able to produce documents that sufficiently outlined the proposed move," the report states.

During the monitoring review in February of TMC's Migrant Seasonal Head Start program, the Administration for Children and Families identified four deficiencies and nine areas of non-compliance with federal regulations, financial management systems, cost principles and procurement.

On Wednesday, TMC received a notice of termination of its Head Start grant programs after it failed to correct all the deficiencies noted in the monitoring review. The nation's largest provider of educational services for migrant students and their families has 30 days to appeal the decision to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Departmental Appeals Board.

Confidentiality violation

According to the monitoring review, TMC did not ensure all staff, consultants, contractors and volunteers abided by standards of conduct requiring them to comply with confidentiality policies.

The review states that the then-interim CEO of TMC disclosed the names and individual votes of the TMC Policy Council members to staff and parents. The votes of the council, which is comprised of community members, related to an amended Head Start grant application.

"Following the release of names to the public, the Office of Head Start received a series of complaints through the complaint line of threats, humiliation and intimidation of Policy Council members and parents who voted against the grant application by other parents and board members," the report states.

The report added that a review of the council roster showed that the members who voted against the amended grant application were no longer listed as members.

Lack of training

Another area of non-compliance was TMC not ensuring appropriate training and technical assistance was provided to the Policy Council, according to the monitoring review. The council's president and another member told the Administration for Children and Families that they were in their second term and had not received training on the roles and responsibilities of serving on the council.

"In an interview, Policy Council members reported that they did not understand many of the documents they received," the review states. "They also reported a lack of understanding of their role to support programming for all parents of the (Head Start) program."

The Administration for Children and Families said TMC also did not comply with requirements when it hired an interim CEO without the use of a competitive process or prior approval from the regional office.

RELATED: TAMIU official presents research in Morioka, Japan

In another instance, TMC "incurred a fee due to failure to comply with federal regulations," the monitoring review states. TMC had to pay $10,000 to the U.S. Treasury to enter the Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program, which was designed to encourage employers to comply voluntarily with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act by self-correcting certain violations of the law. The $10,000 fee that TMC paid due to its failure to comply with the act was allocated to Head Start grants, the review states.

Another deficiency noted by the Administration for Children and Families was that TMC did not ensure costs incurred to defend itself in administrative proceedings were not charged to Head Start. TMC had hired outside legal counsel and paid them $18,537.

Laredo Morning Times sought comment from TMC for this story. Questions were directed to Dan Liskai, chair of the TMC board of directors. He could not be reached for comment.
The public will get their first opportunity to comment on the city of Katy's proposed 2017-2018 budget on September 25 at the regular city council meeting.

City leaders are proposing a $26.1 million budget for the next fiscal year which begins in October - an increase from $24.5 million in fiscal year 2016-2017.

In a message to city leaders, Katy finance director Becky Wilkins said they "remain cautiously optimistic regarding current economic conditions in the area."

Housing developments such as Cane Island Phase II continue to bring new residents in the city, officials said.

Wilkins also cited commercial growth such as three new hotels that are underway. In the message, Wilkins said the Typhoon Texas water park has been a "great addition to the city."

City taxes provide most of the funds in the budget at about $22.3 million.

As was the case last year, Katy's first responders will receive the largest pieces of the financial pie in the upcoming budget. The Katy Police Department will receive just under $8.1 million while the Katy Fire Department will get just over $5.5 million. Both amounts are an increase from 2016-2017 when KPD had a $7.5 million slice and KFD received $5.4 million.

Katy's Street Department will receive just over $3 million in the budget - the largest section after the city's police and fire departments.

But, the debt service in the 2017-2018 fiscal year budget is about $1.4 million - more than the amount set aside for Katy's sanitation or parks department.

The city continues to have a Triple A bond rating and boasts a financial health that continues to remain in "excellent condition," Katy officials said.

For the fifth year in a row, Katy is lowering its tax rate by two cents. Katy officials acknowledge that the city isn't immune to an economic slowdown.

"We remain cautiously optimistic that energy and industrial companies, as well as retail, will remain strong and help grow our tax base," Wilkins said in the message to the city council.

Katy officials said residential and commercial growth in Katy will offset potential sluggish sales tax growth.

The budget will include a two percent cost of living increase for city employees as well as the funds needed to hire three police officers and a heavy equipment operator.
Memorial Villages residents have sustained hurricane Harvey damage like so many in greater Houston and southeast Texas. But even after the initial floodwaters subsided, the area suffered prolonged challenges with stubborn flooding that took weeks to drain with the release of reservoir water from the Barker and Addicks damns, and the resulting excessive traffic around Memorial Drive due to closures of major west-side thoroughfares.

It's been a nightmare for residents.

And in the midst of it all Memorial Villages Police, Hedwig Police and Memorial Villages Fire Department personnel have been working to handle the unprecedented impact to the community. Many of them were not able to check on their own homes after the storm while they were on extended duty.

Now the community is stepping up to help the men and women who were on the front lines of hurricane Harvey with "The Memorial Villages First Responder Relief Fund."

The fund will support them in Harvey recovery, and remain in place to assist them in future disasters that may impact first responders.

"The mission of the fund is to provide relief to the Hedwig Police, Memorial Village Police and Village Fire Departments' first responders who are themselves the victims of disasters or suffer other emergency hardships," read a joint-statement from Bunker Hill, Piney Point, Hedwig and Hunters Creek Villages.

"We are already aware of several members of the Hedwig Police, Memorial Village Police and Village Fire Departments whose homes and/or vehicles were severely flooded while they were on days-long duty," read the statement.

The fund's four-member Board of Director's is made up of one resident from each village and will oversee the administration of the funds received.

Members are: from Bunker Hill, Will Franklin; Hunters Creek, Edward Rhyne; Hedwig Village, Jeremy Sanders and Piney Point, Adnan Amjad.

Franklin said Monday, "Myself and a few residents worked with the City of Bunker Hill Village to establish a fund to help the Villages First Responders (Hedwig Police, Memorial Village Police and Village Fire Departments), with an immediate need to recover from Harvey."

During the worst of the flooding as rain pounded the area and up until September 12, Memorial Villages Police Chief Ray Schultz sent out daily updates through email with information on road conditions, flooding levels, crime and detailed the department's priorities.

Starting September 13, he said the updates would go back to their normal, weekly distribution.

In his last daily message to residents, he said, "I am so proud of our department and our staff. Over the coming days, weeks and months, I am sure you will hear many stories of the individual and team, acts of bravery and heroic actions, that many of our officers performed, as well as our support team of civilian employees. They managed our phone lines, 911, dispatch center, logistics, equipment and even our payroll. Everyone had an important role to play and everyone performed as expected. As the true professionals that they are."

To donate to the fund, checks should be made out to:

"The Memorial Villages First Responder Relief Fund," and are accepted at any of the four village city halls, or online at bunkerhilltx.gov/the-memorial-villages-first-responder-relief-fund.

Checks can be mailed to:"The Memorial Villages First Responder Relief Fund" c/o City of Bunker Hill Village, 11977 Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77024
A student group behind a vaguely organized gathering of right-wing speakers at UC Berkeley has failed to meet deadlines to sign contracts and pay fees for the campus principal event spaces, school officials said Sunday  casting doubt on whether the event will even take place.

The school is trying to determine whether any of the showcase speakers at the event thats dubbed Free Speech Week and is scheduled to start in one week have even signed on, or were merely invited to attend.

These events are the sole responsibility of a student organization on the Berkeley campus, said Dan Mogulof, a UC Berkeley spokesman. The organization has yet to show us any sort of confirmation that any of these speakers actually plan on coming to campus.

The student group, Berkeley Patriot, did not respond to phone calls or emails Sunday but released a statement on its Facebook page saying the event is still on.

We will continue to move forward on a version of the event that will consist mostly of outdoor events, the group wrote. This arrangement isnt ideal for either party involved, so we would welcome the University choosing to come back to the table and allow us to continue with the indoor venues.

A second group affiliated with right-wing speaker Milo Yiannopoulos, which has been promoting the event with several news releases in recent days, did not return phone calls and emails.

The event, scheduled for Sept. 24 to 27, has the campus community and the city on edge after major East Bay clashes between right-wing groups and masked anarchist demonstrators that have time and again erupted into violence.

Close to 200 professors and graduate students at UC Berkeley have signed a letter urging others to boycott campus over the four-day period.

On Thursday, the school was ready with ample security  police officers from around the region at a cost of $600,000  to host conservative speaker Ben Shapiro. Despite nine people being arrested, the event, which was organized by the Berkeley College Republicans, went off with no major violence.

Earlier that day, the Free Speech Week folks announced a lineup of 20 speakers for their conference, including Yiannopoulos, former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon and right-wing pundit Ann Coulter.

Yiannopoulos came to the campus in February, sparking a riot that forced school officials to cancel the event. At the time, he was riding a wave of popularity in the conservative media and had a promising book deal with Simon & Schuster.

But past comments by Yiannopoulos condoning sex between gay men and willing teenage boys came to light earlier this year, prompting the publisher to kill the book deal and the American Conservative Union to disinvite him from its annual Conservative Political Action Conference.

The notorious provocateur, though, has returned to public light in recent weeks, granting interviews with local media and sending off media releases promoting his speaking events.

But its unclear if Yiannopoulos latest crusade in the Bay Area has any foothold or is rather an elaborate ruse to the school, the Berkeley community and the media.

UC Berkeley said Berkeley Patriot missed several deadlines to sign contracts to secure two of the events crucial venues  Wheeler Auditorium on Sept. 24 and Zellerbach Auditorium on Sept. 27.

The school even extended the deadline to reserve the spaces until Friday, when Berkeley Patriot signed the contracts but didnt pay the fee, rendering the contract meaningless, officials said. The student group is also required to submit paperwork to campus police so officials can adequately staff the events with enough security. Mogulof said the organizers have not filed such paperwork.

It was not a capricious deadline, he said. Putting in place all the security, you dont do that overnight. The Police Department needs 10 days. All of the events came with their own security assessment.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
OXFORD, N.C. - During one of their usual morning gatherings at the Bojangles' restaurant in this rural town near the Virginia border, a group of retirees from a local Baptist church shook their heads at the failure of Washington to repeal Obamacare, lower the national debt, build a wall along the southern border, kick people off welfare or get anything else accomplished.

But the focus of their blame is not President Donald Trump, it's Republicans in Congress - whom they view as standing in the way. And they applaud the president's recent attempts to work with Democrats on issues ranging from the debt ceiling to immigration.

"I am proud to say I am proud of Trump," said Mildred Oakes, 76, a former registered Democrat who is no longer affiliated with a party.

"Make that two of us," said another church member.

"Make it three," said Norman Boyd, 79, a retired machinist who is registered as a Democrat - but hasn't voted for one for president since Bill Clinton in the 1990s.

"I think he's an idiot, but I voted for him," another church member chimed in, as others laughed and a woman sitting across from him countered with: "As opposed to what was in there before?"

These churchgoers are at the heart of the dilemma nagging Republican leaders as they struggle to forge a path between the Grand Old Party and the Party of Trump. These voters don't consider themselves Republicans. They are first and foremost supporters of the president.

They are quick to explain away the compromises the former real-estate developer and reality TV star has made and the inconsistencies in many of his positions. They describe Washington as a swamp and speak of Democratic and Republican congressional leaders with the same levels of frustration and disappointment - while describing Trump as if he were a longtime neighbor. They have high hopes for his presidency, but they also fear he might be held back by his party. And they don't expect their devotion to the president to waver, even a tiny bit, any time soon.

"He's elected as our president. We need to give him our respect," said Oakes, who has seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. "I'll vote for him four years from now because I think it will take longer for him to clean up the mess that was left by Obama."

Granville County has long been a Democratic stronghold, but it was one of six rural counties in North Carolina that flipped from voting twice for Barack Obama to voting for Trump last year. Local Democrats blame the flip on low turnout, especially among African Americans who make up a third of the county's population. But local Republicans say it reflects how many in the county feel left behind by Democrats and are looking for a change.

Statewide in North Carolina, nearly 39 percent of voters are registered as Democrats, but that includes voters who haven't voted for a Democrat in decades but keep the designation out of a sense of family tradition or because they want to vote in local races that are usually decided in the Democratic primary. The number of unaffiliated voters has steadily grown and, as of this month, is now slightly higher than the number of registered Republicans. One Democratic strategist said that when it comes down to how voters actually vote, North Carolina is pretty evenly split between Republicans and Democrats. In November's general election, Trump won the state.

In Granville County, Trump beat Clinton by less than 700 votes, while voters narrowly put their support behind a Democratic governor, Roy Cooper, and a Democratic congressman, G.K. Butterfield, along with a Republican senator, Richard Burr.

In interviews last week with nearly three dozen county residents who voted for Trump, nearly all said they vote for the person, not the party. With that emphasis - even if they would never dream of actually voting for a Democrat for president, especially Hillary Clinton - it's little surprise that many feel more loyalty to Trump than the Republican Party.

Many of the church members gathered at Bojangles' last week pointed to the president's Christian faith, saying he brought the Bible and prayer back into the White House. Even though Trump rarely attends church himself, he frequently talked about religion on the campaign trail, promising that with him in the White House, Christians would once again feel free to openly say "Merry Christmas."

"President Trump has talked more about Christian values than any of the last two or three presidents that we've had," said Wayne Overton, 79, who is retired from the Postal Service and now raises cows on a farm a few miles outside of town and tours the country in a motor home. "And I admire him for picking the vice president that he picked. If something happened, our country would be in good hands."

Overton and others admit that while Trump is far from perfect, he represents them far better than Obama - and he isn't afraid to say the unpopular thing. Too often, they said, Republican and Democratic leaders provide the politically correct response instead of the fair one. That's why they were encouraged to hear Trump speak out against liberal protesters who have sparked violent clashes across the country, defend the country's history and protect the America that they know.

"It used to be in the [county hospital] waiting room you would see white and black, but mostly black. You go into the waiting room now, you see Latinos. They're the ones having the babies," said Oakes, a grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of one who is retired from an agency that provided in-home health care. "So, you know, whites will be the minority very soon."

When asked if that worries her, Oakes replied: "Well, I believe in Christian values."

When asked what she meant by that, Oakes gestured to Curtis Nelson, an African-American employee at Bojangles' who is a pastor at a local church, voted for Trump and often stops by to chat with the breakfast club.

"Curtis knows I love Curtis as much as anybody - but I believe in Christian values," she said, adding that she has a friend who legally immigrated from Mexico and that she is supportive of a Latino church that started in the county.

The church members soon wrapped up their morning gathering and were replaced by the lunch crowd, including Roy Strickland, who grabbed a booth in the corner as he waited for a friend.

Strickland, a Navy veteran, moved to the county in 1973 and worked as a truck mechanic and then as an industrial pipe fitter until he was laid off in 2009. He said he went on disability for his diabetes, arthritis and other health issues, and when he tried to look for work, no one wanted to hire him. He's now 69 and lives eight miles outside town in what he calls "the middle of nowhere."

He has long depended on government checks to survive. After working for more than four decades, he says he gets angry when he sees people getting welfare who haven't yet contributed, and he hopes that Trump will crack down - a common sentiment here.

Strickland is a registered Democrat on paper but otherwise is a longtime Republican. He said he gets frustrated with "mainstream Republicans" in Congress like House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, who "has an agenda of his own and is trying to undermine what Trump is trying to do." He was glad to see the president agree with Democrats to raise the government borrowing limit and avoid a government shutdown.

"Something had to be done," Strickland said. "I don't think that the deal he cut with them to do that was putting him in their corner. It was just business. Regardless of whatever else he is, he's a businessman."

He's also been heartened to see the president stand up to liberal protesters and the anti-fascist movement, more commonly known as "antifa." Strickland said that he has never seen the country so racially divided and he blames Obama for "causing trouble" and widening "the gap between the races" by getting involved when black teenagers were shot by white police officers, which Strickland views as rare occurrences that the media blows out of proportion.

When Strickland was growing up in Durham, he said that he would often walk four miles from his home outside of town to the movie theater, passing through black neighborhoods and chatting with those he passed. He often wore a jean jacket with a Confederate flag on the back.

"I never had any trouble. I would meet a black man walking down the street, or a woman, and I'd speak to them, they'd speak to me. . . . Somebody sitting on a porch, we'd wave to each other. There was never a problem with it," he said. "Look at it now. If a white man walks through sections of Durham, he gonna get killed."

Strickland said the Confederate flag is part of his history.

"It's part of everybody's history, just like these statues that they keep tearing down. They're history. They're nothing that's hurting anybody."

Later in the day, as the sun set in a grand display of pink and lavender, Debbie Spencer loaded groceries into her car at the Walmart across from the Bojangles' restaurant. The 65-year-old keeps a baton and three knives hidden in her car so that she can fight off anyone who might try to attack her - but she mostly feels safe here in Granville County, home to winding country roads, tobacco fields, meadows of yellow wildflowers and quiet little towns. She will only go to the nearby city of Henderson during daylight, and she never ventures to Durham, which is about 30 miles south.

Both of Spencer's parents were Democrats, although she said that they would not recognize the Democratic Party today. She has been a registered Republican all her adult life, although she doesn't recognize the party that many Republicans in Washington claim to represent - and she doesn't understand why Republican leaders are fighting Trump. She jokingly suggested that the country might benefit from all of Washington being wiped out during one of Trump's trips to Mar-a-Lago.

"The Republicans in both the House and the Senate are thwarting the president's - no, the people's - agenda," said Spencer, who is retired after working for nearly three decades manufacturing roof shingles. "They get up there, and they get a taste of power, and they get a taste of money, and they forget us."
France's top diplomat warned against withdrawal from global engagement "out of fear or selfishness," and said French President Emmanuel Macron will try to persuade President Donald Trump to remain a party to the international nuclear deal with Iran when the two leaders meet later Monday.

France will also renew the case for Trump to reconsider his decision to pull out of the Paris climate accord, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters.

"There is a worrying degradation of the world environment," Le Drian said, referring to a host of conflicts and terrorism, but also by implication to the rise of the kind of populism or nationalism that helped elect Trump. "Despite globalization, cooperation has become less easy," Le Drian said through an interpreter.

Without mentioning Trump by name during his opening remarks, Le Drian lamented a "increasing breakdown of international cooperation" and "withdrawal out of fear or selfishness."

When asked about the U.S. leader and Macron's meeting with him, Le Drian said France will stress the value of the Iran deal for nuclear nonproliferation and international security. He suggested that France may be open to an extension of nuclear limits on Iran past 2025, one of the main demands of critics of the deal.

"I'll try to convince President Trump," that the deal can be rigorously enforced now, Le Drian said. Even if a follow-on deal or other changes are contemplated, "we need to acknowledge the validity of the agreement as it is."

If Trump moves to pull away from the deal by failing to certify to Congress that Iran is complying, other parties to the deal will carry on, Le Drian said.

"Today there is nothing to allow us to believe it will not be implemented. It's essential," he said.

The Trump administration has twice certified to Congress that Iran was meeting its end of the landmark 2015 bargain that freezes elements of its nuclear development program that could lead to a bomb in return for the lifting of most international sanctions.

Trump has recently said he does not expect to make the same determination at the next deadline, on Oct. 15, but other U.S. officials have said the decision is not set. A statement that Iran is not complying would set off a congressional review of whether to reimpose some U.S. sanctions, which could sunder the deal.

Earlier Monday, the U.S. administration warned that Washington could leave the deal if it finds that the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency has not been rigorous enough in enforcing it.

Energy Secretary Rick Perry read the warning at a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna.

Trump, in the message read by Perry, suggested that the United States's continued participation in the deal could depend on International Atomic Energy Agency access to Iranian military sites that Iran has declared off-limits.

"We will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal," the Associated Press quoted Perry as saying.

Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi urged the agency and its head, Yukiya Amano, to "resist such unacceptable demands," and said the deal is in danger not from Iranian compliance but from "the American administration's hostile attitude," The Associated Press reported.

The IAEA has said Iran is complying.

Macron's meeting with Trump comes one day after administration officials failed to clear up confusion over whether Trump may be looking for ways to remain engaged in the Paris climate accord, a nonbinding but historic agreement to limit global carbon emissions.

White House national security adviser H.R. McMaster had said Sunday that the decision to leave the pact was final, although Trump remains open to the potential for a different deal, but Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Trump might reconsider if the terms of the Paris climate deal were changed now. That is unlikely.

Le Drian said Macron will stress the universal threat of climate change.

"We consider that this agreement needs to be implemented, and it will be," Le Drian said. "We have heard the declarations made by President Trump and his intention not to respect the agreement, and we can only hope to convince him in the long run."

Trump said in June that he would begin the three-year process of exiting the compact, which he called unfair to the United States.
Peru's President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski reshuffled his Cabinet and turned to his vice president, Mercedes Araoz, to lead the ministerial team after Araoz's predecessor received a no-confidence vote from Congress.

Araoz, a governing-party lawmaker, was sworn in as Cabinet chief during a ceremony Sunday at the presidential palace in Lima to replace Fernando Zavala. Deputy Economy Minister Claudia Cooper was named finance minister, a post Zavala had also held since June. Kuczynski also appointed new education, justice, health and housing ministers.

Peru's entire Cabinet was forced to resign after Zavala lost a Sept. 15 confidence vote he'd called to stop the opposition-controlled Congress from forcing out a fourth minister in less than a year.

Kuczynski is the nation's first leader to govern without a majority in Congress. The appointments are an attempt to address concerns that the previous cabinet had too many technocrats who lacked political experience.

In addition to Araoz, who was finance minister and trade minister during the 2006-2011 term of former President Alan Garcia, Kuczynski appointed Carlos Bruce, another ruling-party lawmaker, to the post of housing minister. They bring to four the number of lawmakers in the 19-member cabinet "which will improve relations with Congress a lot," Bruce told Lima-based Radio Programas.

Peru's currency rose 0.1 percent to 3.247 per U.S. dollar at 10:35 a.m. in Lima. The sol fell the most in four months on Sept. 15 after the no confidence vote.

Opposition leader Keiko Fujimori, who narrowly lost last year's presidential race, called on Kuczynski in July to make changes to his Cabinet amid a protracted teachers' strike that ended this month. That call was echoed by members of Kuczynski's own party this month amid a slump in the president's approval rating.

Kuczynski reappointed the remaining cabinet members to their previous posts. Fujimori said via Twitter she welcomed welcomed the cabinet changes. Fuerza Popular lawmaker Hector Becerril said Araoz will be able to seek consensus and avoid confrontation with other parties, El Comercio newspaper reported.

Veronika Mendoza, a left-wing former presidential candidate, said via Twitter Kuczynski named a cabinet to placate Fuerza Popular and Garcia's Apra party while "turning his back on the people."

Araoz now has to seek Congress' blessing for the new cabinet. She told reporters Sunday she'll likely request a vote of confidence in the first week of October.

The cabinet changes signal policy continuity and are unlikely to generate much enthusiasm among the general public, said Fernando Rospigliosi, a former campaign adviser to Kuczynski. Tensions between the government and Fujimori's party are likely to resurge in the coming months unless the administration garners more public support.

"Fuerza Popular's strategy is to weaken the government and that's not going to change," he said by phone from Lima. "They'll only be more careful about attacking if there's an improvement in the government's popularity."
The U.S. Navy on Monday fired two senior officers who oversaw the warships involved in three major accidents earlier this year, including two collisions in the Western Pacific that left 17 sailors dead.

Rear Adm. Charles Williams was commander of the Navy's Task Force 70. Based in Japan, he had responsibility for the aircraft carriers, cruisers and destroyers that patrol throughout the Pacific and Indian oceans. Capt. Jeffrey Bennett was commander of Destroyer Squadron 15 and reported to Williams.

Both were removed from their jobs by Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander of the Navy's 7th Fleet, who cited a "loss of confidence in their ability to command," Navy officials said.

Sawyer replaced the previous 7th Fleet commander, Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, after he was relieved of command in August for similar reasons.

The string of incidents have led to at least six firings. The removal of Williams and Bennett mark the latest development in a promised accountability sweep as the service seeks to restore confidence in its surface warfare fleet and address glaring questions about commanders' ability to hone seamanship and readiness amid constant deployments.

They also come as Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson is set to testify before Congress on Tuesday, where he's expected to face difficult questions about the string of mishaps. Experts and naval officers have blamed the accidents partly on the Navy's "can-do" attitude - the willingness to take on missions while shortchanging maintenance, training and seafaring fundamentals.

The USS Fitzgerald, a guided-missile destroyer, collided with a container ship in Tokyo Bay on Jun. 17, leaving seven sailors dead and a deep hole in the ship's starboard side. On Aug. 21, the USS John S. McCain, also a guided-missile destroyer, collided with an oil tanker in a bustling sea transit lane near Singapore, killing 10 sailors.

Two other accidents, including another collision and a ship running aground in Tokyo Bay, have occurred this year. Three of the ships are assigned to the 7th Fleet, which is forward-deployed and tasked with, among other missions, defending against North Korean aggression and checking Chinese territorial expansion.

Commanders across the Navy have scrambled to uncover common factors that may be at play in the incidents.

"We're getting to defining what the problem is," a Navy official said Monday, referring to the lessons learned from the Navy-wide operational pause ordered by Richardson after the McCain collision and the ongoing investigations into both deadly accidents.

Fleet Forces Commander Adm. Philip Davidson, who oversees training and equipping sailors and ships, will conclude a review of potentially fraying readiness and personnel standards at the end of October, with an emphasis on the 7th Fleet incidents.

As part of that, a host of potential issues will be evaluated, including maintenance, training and fatigue among watch officers, a trio of junior officers tasked with manning the ship and avoiding obstacles. Navy officials say it is too early to conclude whether any of these factors played a role in the recent accidents.

"As soon as we are able to clearly define the problem, then we will communicate to our sailors, their families and the American public," said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak freely about the Navy's ongoing reviews.

U.S. Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Scott Swift has moved on improving shortcomings ahead of the review, fleet spokesman Capt. Charlie Brown said Monday.

Officials with the newly created Surface Group Western Pacific, an advisory group that will seek to balance certification and maintenance requirements with operational needs, are expected to begin work in Japan as early as this week, Brown said.

Rear Adm. Marc Dalton, commander of the Okinawa-based Task Force 76, will assume command from Williams, with Bennett's deputy commander, Capt. Jonathan Duffy, taking over duties for the destroyer squadron, the Navy said.

The scrutiny on operations in the Pacific comes as the Pentagon seeks to "rebalance" forces in the region, where it will permanently station 60 percent of its naval assets and combat aircraft.

The Trump administration also is considering plans to expand the Navy to 350 ships. Currently, the fleet has 276 that are able to deploy.
LUGA, Russia - A revitalized Russian military on Monday sent tanks, paratroopers, artillery, antiaircraft weapons, jets and helicopters into frigid rains to engage the forces of a mock enemy called the "Western Coalition." The barrage of firepower, part of war games that began last week, was an explosive show of force that Baltic leaders said was a simulation of an attack against NATO forces in Eastern Europe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the field Monday, skipping the 72nd United Nations General Assembly in favor of the military exercises held jointly with Belarus. The muscle-flexing, which began Thursday, highlights the lethality of a fighting force that has taken a crash course of reforms and upgrades over the last decade.

In response, U.S. fighter jets in Lithuania have been scrambling nearly daily to inspect Russian activity over the Baltic Sea.

"It gets your blood pumping," U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Clinton Guenther, commander of a beefed-up NATO deployment of fighters in the Baltic country, said of the scrambling.

The Zapad war games - the word means "West" in Russian - focus on a hostile imaginary country called Veishnoria, which resembles a slice of the western part of Belarus with the biggest Catholic population and the highest prevalence of the Belarusan language. Veishnoria, along with two imaginary allies that appear to be stand-ins for the Baltics, attempts regime change in the Belarusan capital, Minsk, then foments separatism in parts of Belarus.

The Baltic countries that would be on the front lines of any potential Western conflict with Russia say that the exercises are only nominally about separatism and are mainly intended to leave them rattled.

"Russia is still trying to demonstrate force and aggression in its relations to its neighbors," Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite said in an interview.

But deployments this year of about 4,000 NATO troops across the Baltics and Poland leave the region far more confident that Russia will hold back from direct military confrontation, she said.

"We are prepared as never before. It's incomparable with 2009 or 2013," the years of the other most recent Western-facing exercises, she said. NATO deployed troops and further bolstered its military presence in the region after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

Moscow has insisted that the exercises would rehearse a strictly defensive scenario and involve no more than 12,700 troops, just below the level that would require Russia to allow NATO observers under an international agreement. NATO leaders have said that the exercise may actually involve up to 100,000 troops.

For Russia, the exercises are a chance to exhibit the new strength of its military, which has undergone a decade-long modernization and deeply desires to shed its reputation as the creaky, inefficient successor of the Soviet Red Army. Military officials sought to show the success of the exercises despite the adverse weather conditions.

Putin arrived by helicopter at the Luzhsky military training range on Monday afternoon to observe the exercises. He did not give public statements, but let Russia's guns speak for him. If the yearly parade of Russian missiles and tanks on Victory Day in Red Square is a moment for pomp and circumstance, the Zapad war games are supposed to display the efficiency and strength of the renewed, and battle-tested, Russian military.

On Monday, the exercises began with the Russians launching a desperate defense: Tracer bullets sailed over a muddy field, while antiaircraft guns released salvos to down enemy drones and cruise missiles. Russia launched short range ballistic missiles, naval forces, and its newest Ka-52 attack helicopters. After repelling the invasion, the Russian forces launched a T-72 tank-led counteroffensive. (In the end, the Russians won.)

Military commanders said that 95 foreign representatives from 50 countries, including NATO member states, attended the exercises. They also sought to underline Russian aviation's ability to maintain combat operations in poor weather, with two flights of four Sukhoi Su-24M bombers carrying out airstrikes in the driving rain.

"The strike on ground targets was complicated by weather conditions: heavy precipitation, low clouds, and strong gusts of wind," a Russian Defense Ministry report said. The planes dropped 250-kilogram high-explosive fragmentation bombs. The pilots destroyed ground targets imitating infrastructure, fortifications and convoys of the simulated enemy, it said.

In the first phase of the exercise, which ended over the weekend, Russian and Belarusan forces defended civilian infrastructure from enemy cruise missiles in coordination with ground-based air defense. With the diversionary force defeated, Russia went on the offensive for phase two.

The top U.S. general in Europe said NATO was being vigilant about the war games but that he had not "seen anything that indicates it being anything other than an exercise."

In Tirana, Albania, Army Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, who is also the Supreme Allied Commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, said he had seen no evidence that Russia might leave a force in the Baltic region after the exercises conclude.

Scaparrotti did say said the exercises were "larger than what they told us."

"It's following in line with what we've seen with these annual exercises in the past. They're usually very large. They're usually initially defensive in nature but also have an offensive portion thereafter that looks to me like a rehearsal of an attack," Scaparrotti added. "That's worrisome if you're a NATO country on the border."

One Lithuanian army officer, Lt. Col. Linas Idzelis, said that some of his civilian friends considered planning vacations around the exercises, so that they would be outside the country in case of invasion. He said he told them they should not be concerned.

Putin's arrival at the war games came as world leaders and diplomats gathered in New York for the U.N. General Assembly.

In recent months, the U.N. Security Council has hosted angry confrontations between Russia and the United States over alleged hacking in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, as well as the international response to the North Korean nuclear program.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday that Putin's absence was not a U.N. snub.

"Indeed this year the president's schedule did not allow him to participate in the General Assembly session, and he does not take part every year. So there's nothing unusual in this case," Peskov said.

- - -

Birnbaum reported from Vilnius, Lithuania and Roth reported from Moscow. Thomas Gibbons-Neff in Tirana, Albania, contributed to this report.

- - -

Video: On Sept. 18, President Vladimir Putin watched as the Russian military battled an imaginary Western invasion.

URL: http://wapo.st/2ftC6eL

Embed code:
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

All but one of the 22 students in Lisa Moeller's first-grade class sat cross-legged on the carpeted floor of the borrowed classroom inside James Patterson Elementary School.

It was the first day back to school after Hurricane Harvey had forced the cancellation of classes in Fort Bend County for two weeks and Moeller had been worried that some students might not show up.

Most of Fort Bend ISD's schools had been spared major damage, but one elementary school, Juan Seguin, was so severely flooded that the district decided to move its 580 students and 40 teachers to two different campuses until repairs could be completed. The school may not be ready for months.

Early on the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 12, the Kindergarten through second grade students of Juan Seguin shuffled into an unfamiliar building for the second first day of school in three weeks. Small children, some wearing backpacks nearly as big as they were, sat in straight lines on the Patterson gym floor with their classmates before the morning announcements. Concerned parents lined the walls, watching to see how their little ones would react to the new environment.

"They have to get used to it again," said Sun Hsiao, whose kindergartener and third grader were split up when the district decided to put K-second grade students at Patterson and third-fifth graders at nearby Crockett Middle School.

Both Lissette and Jonathan Garcia came to see their first grade son, Alessandro, off because he was nervous about having to go to a new school.

For the Garcias, the whole process leading up to the re-start of school had been stressful. They were lucky that their home was not damaged by the flooding in the area, but they had received conflicting information about the return to school, increasing their uncertainty about how things would go for Alessandro.

"When we started (at Seguin), everybody knew his name. He knew the way (to his classroom)," Lissette said. "We've been reassuring him about his friends and teachers being there too  We told him everybody here is scared."

But the orientation event held for Seguin students and parents the night before had helped put Lissette more at ease.

"Everybody does care about the kids," she said.

As the time to begin class neared, Seguin teachers led their students, single-file, to their new classrooms to start the day.

In Moeller's classroom, which she is sharing with another teacher, the first graders listened eagerly as their teacher explained why they couldn't go back to their old classroom at Seguin. She said that water had gotten into the school, just like it had in lots of houses around their neighborhoods.

"Was anybody scared?" Mrs. Moeller asked.

Almost every hand shot up.

Moeller told them that not everything could saved, but that she had been able to save all of their books.

"Isn't that awesome?" she asked.

"Yeah!" the children exclaimed in unison.

Although they had lost 11 instructional days to the storm, Moeller's primary concern with the children in the first week back was to make sure that they felt safe. Fort Bend ISD has applied to the Texas Education Agency for a missed instructional days waiver, which the agency has said it will grant to district impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

"This week, we're going to spend a lot of time listening to them -- getting them in the routine," Moeller said. "It will take extra patience  and lots of hugs."
The Senate passed its version of a massive defense bill on Monday, setting up negotiations with the House but leaving the most controversial policy issues that lawmakers hoped to address unresolved.

Senators voted 89 to 8 to pass the nearly $700 billion bill, which authorizes support for Pentagon programs and combat operations at home and abroad. Five Democrats and three Republicans - including Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker, R-Tenn. - refused to back the measure, while defense hawks Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Marco Rubio, R-Fla., and Robert Menendez, D-N.J., did not vote.

By sheer size, the bill is the most comprehensive piece of legislation Congress grapples with in any given year, apart from dealing with the budget. This year, it has enjoyed unique bipartisan support in the Senate.

But part of that harmony is due to the fact that this year's Senate bill was unfettered by several of the policy fights senators had hoped to wage against the Trump administration, on matters including transgender troops and North Korea.

While the bill authorizes spending on an array of defense programs, lawmakers will take up separate legislation later this year that would appropriate the necessary funds.

Senate leaders were unable to strike a deal to schedule votes on several proposed amendments, meaning that highly anticipated debates over whether to increase sanctions against North Korea and challenge President Trump's announced ban on transgender troops never happened on the Senate floor.

On Friday, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., threw his support behind a free-standing bill that would curtail Trump's proposed transgender ban, which the president announced via Twitter in July.

McCain's open declaration of opposition to the president's ban was notable - but also a sign that the measure would likely not be folded into the defense bill.

Senators of both parties also proposed stiffening sanctions against Pyongyang over its latest ballistic missile and nuclear tests, including measures to ban the import of any goods made by North Korean labor and block anyone who does business with North Korea from the U.S. financial system. Those proposals never came up for vote.

Of the politically controversial matters that arose, the only one to receive a vote was an amendment from Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., to impose a six-month deadline on Congress to pass a new authorization for use of military force (AUMF) against extremist groups. The Senate voted to kill his proposal; even several of Congress's biggest AUMF champions recoiled at setting up a do-or-die situation in which the military could be left without any legal underpinning for combat operations in Afghanistan and the Middle East.

But the Senate's bill does include a few significant policy changes, including a government-wide ban on using Russian firm Kaspersky Labs' software. The measure, presented initially by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., goes further than an order that acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke issued last week, which applied only to federal civilian agencies. The defense bill's ban would also cover the military and government contractors.

Kaspersky Lab has strongly denied it is a conduit for Russian government espionage. "Kaspersky Lab has never helped, nor will help, any government in the world with its cyberespionage or offensive cyber efforts, and it's disconcerting that a private company can be considered guilty until proven innocent, due to geopolitical issues," the company said in a statement last week.

Russia's mounting aggression, including its attempts to meddle in the 2016 presidential election, inspired several initiatives in both the House and Senate's defense bills, such as intensified cybersecurity operations, some of which the Trump administration has criticized, and measures designed to stay ahead of Russia in the arms and space race - including a "Space Corps" program the Pentagon has said it doesn't yet want.

House and Senate lawmakers will wrestle over those issues in the coming weeks, as Congress also debates how much money to commit to the defense programs they are trying to authorize.

The defense bills hike the level of defense spending over the current budget, an infusion lawmakers say is crucial to keeping the military functioning. Congressional hawks including McCain pointed out that the increases attracted broad support this year, earning unanimous votes in the Armed Services Committee.

Congress faces its next budget deadline in December, and it is not clear how much lawmakers will direct toward defense spending.

"For too long our nation has asked our men and women in uniform to do too much with far too little," McCain said Monday, warning that financially, "we are gambling with the lives of the best among us, and we're now seeing the costs."

"This legislation is only part of the solution," he added, referring to the defense bill. "We still have no path to actually appropriate the money that we are about to authorize."
Senators pushing a last-ditch Obamacare repeal effort this week are up against the same old problem: Math.

This small group of Republicans - led by Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham -- appear convinced they can rework the equation to secure that ever-elusive 50th vote for their measure, finally passing a bill overhauling the Affordable Care Act with a tiebreaking vote from Vice President Mike Pence and moving closer to their goal of repealing and replacing President Barack Obama's health-care law.

There will be a lot of moving parts to watch this week. Republicans have asked the Congressional Budget Office to rush a score of the Graham-Cassidy bill, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's, R-Ky., office confirmed Sunday. McConnell plans to take the temperature of his leadership team and his entire conference over the next few days. They have only two weeks left to scrape together enough support, since the budget reconciliation bill they're using expires at the end of the month.

But despite all the noise being generated on Capitol Hill, Cassidy and Co. still appear to be shy of the vote total they'd need to succeed. Cassidy says he's certain they have 48 or 49 Republican votes for his bill. But getting that final, 50th vote is the crucial - and the hardest - part.

Cassidy has sorta, kinda, maybe won over Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., who said this month that he favors this latest approach but wanted to see actual text first. McCain is a key figure in all of this, since he cast the third vote in July bringing down a "skinny repeal" bill.

But McCain has also continually expressed frustration at passing a health-care bill entirely along partisan lines - and he reiterated that concern on CBS's "Face the Nation" Sunday.

"Why did - why did Obamacare fail?" McCain said. "Obamacare was rammed through with Democrats' votes only. "That's not the way to do it."

McCain spokeswoman Julie Tarallo said the senator is continuing to "review" the text Cassidy introduced last week.

"Sen. McCain continues to review the bill to assess its impact on the people of Arizona," she said. "As he has said before, Sen. McCain believes health care reform should go through the regular order of hearings, open debate, and amendments from both sides of the aisle."But even if McCain does sign on, his support would basically be zeroed out by Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., who voted for the failed "skinny repeal" bill in July. But Paul said Friday he'd defect from Graham-Cassidy because it leaves way too much of Obamacare in place.

The two - Paul and Cassidy - got into something of a Twitter fight on Friday:

Paul tweeted this:

"I can't support a bill that keeps 90% of Obamacare in place. #GrahamCassidy is not repeal or replace, it is more Obamacare Lite."

Cassidy responded:

"GCHJ repeals entire architecture of Obamacare & gives Kentucky control over its own health care. Willing to go over it with you."

Au contraire, Paul said:

"it keeps 90% of Obamacare spending and 90% of Obamacare taxes. No thanks."

If Cassidy ends up just swapping Paul's support for McCain's backing, he needs to net an additional vote from one of two other moderate Republicans - Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska or Susan Collins of Maine. That's a steep task, since both women voted against "skinny repeal," which was a much narrower repeal bill that peeled away only small sections of the ACA.

And all this is assuming no other Republicans defect, even though Graham-Cassidy includes steep Medicaid cuts - an idea that gave many Republicans serious pause in previous incarnations. Under Graham-Cassidy, total federal Medicaid spending would be cut 26 percent in 2026 and 35 percent by 2036, relative to spending projections under current law.

Cassidy's bill actually goes way further than either the House or Senate health-care bills in overhauling the ACA by essentially lumping its spending on ACA marketplace subsidies and Medicaid into block grants for states to cover people as they wish.Here's a useful explanation from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

States would essentially have to create a new health program between now and 2020, when the marketplaces and Medicaid expansion would be disbanded. If they chose, states could abandon the ACA's regulations on insurers to provide certain "essential benefits" and charge the same premiums to people regardless of their health status. This, too, has been a point of contention among some moderate Republicans.

The Kaiser Family Foundation's Larry Levitt smartly put it this way, tweeting:

"The Cassidy-Graham repeal and replace bill would unleash health care debates in all 50 states, with very unpredictable results."

"There is tremendous flexibility for states under Cassidy-Graham, but also tremendous responsibility."

And then there's President Donald Trump, who has said little publicly about Graham-Cassidy, even though he devoted several tweets last week to slamming Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., for the single-payer plan he rolled out. White House officials plan to help whip GOP votes this week, per Politico, but Cassidy wants the president to put his own weight behind the bill, publicly.

You wouldn't exactly pick up on all these obstacles from talking to Cassidy. As a gastroenterologist who was deeply involved in health policy in the House before joining the Senate in 2015, he wants to be known as the guy who led Republicans across the finish line on the Obamacare overhaul effort eluding them.

Graham and two other important Republicans - Sens. Dean Heller of Nevada and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin - are backing the measure too.

On Friday, Cassidy told reporters his bill has support from as many as 48 or 49 Republicans. "I'm confident we'll get there on the Republican side," he said. "People are coming out and saying they are for it, either publicly or privately."

Still, 49 + 1 - 1 = 49.
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's trip to France for the country's Bastille Day parade in July left a big impression. So big, in fact, that he wants to replicate the experience back home.

As Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump gushed about seeing France's military might on display in the streets of Paris during his visit. And he told reporters that he is looking into the possibility of having the parade down the streets of Washington on Independence Day to show the U.S.'s "military strength."

"I was your guest at Bastille Day, and it was one of the greatest parades I've ever seen," Trump told Macron, who sat next to him. "It was two hours on the button, and it was military might, and I think a tremendous thing for France and the spirit of France."

"To large extent because of what I witnessed, we may do something like that on July Fourth in Washington down Pennsylvania Avenue," Trump said.

The comments prompted laughter from Macron and other officials sitting around them. The leaders were meeting in New York ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. But it isn't he first time that Trump has talked about wanting a military parade in the streets of Washington.

Before the inauguration, Trump officials inquired with the Pentagon about having armored vehicles participate in his inauguration parade, according to documents obtained by the HuffPost. And he told The Washington Post in January that he hoped that during his tenure, the U.S.'s military might would be on display.

"Being a great president has to do with a lot of things, but one of them is being a great cheerleader for the country," Trump said in the January interview. "And we're going to show the people as we build up our military, we're going to display our military."

"That military may come marching down Pennsylvania Avenue. That military may be flying over New York City and Washington, D.C., for parades. I mean, we're going to be showing our military," he added.

Though Trump is deeply unpopular in France, he was invited for the 100th Bastille Day ceremony in Paris by Macron in an effort to strengthen the relationship between the two countries and its new leaders. The lengthy parade seemed to thrill the president, who has long held a fascination with military might.

On Monday, seated next to Macron, he boasted about the levels of U.S. military spending in his first term. And he said that his goal would be to "try to top" what France did.

"I think we're looking forward to doing that," Trump said. "I'm speaking with General Kelly and with all of the people involved, and we'll see if we can do it this year," he added, referring to his Chief of Staff John Kelly.

The Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comment about plans to hold such a parade.
Caribbean island nations still recovering from Irma are bracing for a third hurricane strike in two weeks, while the U.S. Northeast is expected to take a glancing shot from Hurricane Jose.

Hurricane Maria with top winds of 120 miles (193 kilometers) per hour, was 60 miles east of Martinique and bearing down on Dominica and Guadeloupe in the Caribbean's Leeward Islands, the National Hurricane Center said in an 11 a.m. advisory. It was at Category 3 on the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale and is expected to strengthen later Monday.

Maria follows Harvey which struck the Gulf Coast of Texas and Irma, which rolled over Florida earlier this month. The storms left dozens dead, upended energy and agriculture markets, and caused a combined $143 billion in damages, the second-costliest Atlantic Hurricane season since 1980, according to Enki Research in Savannah, Georgia. While Maria is following a more southerly path, dangerous winds will still reach Barbuda and other islands devastated by Irma.

"Any recovery effort that is going on across these islands will be impacted," said Tyler Roys, a meteorologist at AccuWeather in State College, Pennsylvania.

If the damage estimates hold, 2017 will trail only 2005 in storm costs. That year, a record 28 tropical systems formed in the Atlantic while Katrina devastated New Orleans, according to data from the U.S. National Centers for Environmental Information in Asheville, North Carolina, compiled by Bloomberg.

A hurricane warning is in place on Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Martinique, St. Lucia and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. A tropical storm warning is posted for Antigua, Barbuda, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten and Anguilla.

Dominica, an island of 75,000 people in the eastern Caribbean, planned to shut schools, businesses and all government offices except emergency services Monday, said Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit in a national address. At least 20 died on the island in 2015 amid heavy flooding when it was struck by Tropical Storm Erika. Storm surge on Dominica and Guadeloupe could reach 9 feet (2.7 meters.)

On its current track, Maria is forecast to strike Puerto Rico's southern coast Wednesday with winds as high as 150 mph and a storm surge that could reach nine feet.

From there, Maria is expected to move into the Bahamas by Saturday retaining much of its strength. Beyond that, its future may depend on other weather systems including Jose, which is forecast to weaken to a tropical storm and linger in the Atlantic after bringing gusty winds and rains across eastern Long Island, Rhode Island and Massachusetts late Tuesday and Wednesday.

"The really interesting thing is how zombie Jose may interact with Hurricane Maria as it moves northward this weekend and early next week," said Todd Crawford, lead meteorologist at The Weather Company in Andover, Massachusetts.
(Anti-corruption activist in Hanoi, Vietnam. Photo/Reuters)

Vietnamese scholars and experts hailed China's efforts in combating corruption, urging for cooperation between the two countries in this respect.

China has been carrying out a wide-ranging and far-reaching anti-corruption campaign, Vo Dai Luoc, the former director of the Institute of World Economics and Politics of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, told Xinhua on Sunday.

The campaign covers various spheres including those as sensitive as the army and at all levels ranging from grassroots to high-level officials, the Vietnamese scholar said.

China's anti-corruption campaign targets not only "flies" (low-ranking corrupted officials), but also "tigers" (high-ranking corrupted officials), not only inside China but also outside the country, he said, referring to such campaigns as "Sky Net" and "Fox Hunt" which have caught more than 2,000 corrupted Chinese officials that had fled to dozens of other nations and regions.

"I am impressed by the decisive blows dealt to 'big tigers,'" Luoc said, adding that Vietnam should take vigorous measures similar to the Chinese ones to prevent and combat corruption in party organizations at the highest level as well as in the army.

China investigates cases of corruption very thoroughly, collecting persuasive evidences such as banknotes, gemstones and antiques, the scholar noted, saying that such evidences have facilitated the rapid, objective and transparent handling of corruption cases, which are really convincing.

The anti-corruption campaign has reinforced people's trust in the ruling Communist Party of China, which, Luoc said, is a useful lesson for Vietnam.

Do Tien Sam, the former director of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Chinese Studies, called for cooperation between Vietnam and China in fighting corruption.

As corruption concerns the survival of a party as well as a government, both Vietnamese and Chinese leaders have shown strong determination to hunt "tigers" and "flies", he told Xinhua.

Sam proposed taking concrete measures so that officials do not dare to, will not want to or cannot engage in corruption. "It will take time for us to implement measures which make officials not want to become corrupted."

No matter how hard it is, more effective measures should be taken to prevent power from being abused, party members as well as public servants from being corrupted and forming interest groups, Sam said.

"Vietnam and China can join hands in identifying signs of interest groups at ministries, localities and sectors, and then seeking measures to deal with them," he said.

"We can also share results of relevant researches and surveys, make comparisons about actual situations in Vietnam and China, helping the two parties, the two states succeed in their renewal and reform," said the scholar.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The shelter at Houston's George R. Brown Convention Center closed late Sunday after the Red Cross and city officials relocated nearly 900 people to three other shelter facilities.

The move leaves roughly 3,000 area residents living in emergency shelters across Houston three weeks after Harvey inundated much of the city.

HARVEY COVERAGE: Get the latest news as coastal Texas recovers

To finally close the convention center shelter, which once held more than 10,000 people, the Red Cross moved more than 500 people to a Houston Community College warehouse in southern Houston, and another 159 people to the Chinese Community Center in southwest Houston.

Now Playing: Families and friends try to reconnect through the missing persons center at the George R. Brown Convention Center on Aug. 31, 2017 in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey. (Gabrielle Banks) Video: Houston Chronicle

The city, meanwhile, transferred some 200 people to a longer-term facility at the former Star of Hope shelter on Emancipation Avenue.

A shelter at NRG Center operated by the local nonprofit BakerRipley remains the city's largest, with about 2,100 people living there Sunday night. That facility is slated to close Saturday.

"The shelter was supposed to be just like the GRB - it's a temporary solution to disaster," BakerRipley spokeswoman Frida Villalobos said, adding that relocation plans were a "work in progress."

The Red Cross, meanwhile, did not specify closing dates for its remaining Houston-area shelters.

"This is a fluid situation, and it's hard to offer a closing date," spokeswoman MaryJane Mudd said in an email. "Our goal is to help everyone with their recovery planning, so they can take the next step in the recovery process, whether that is returning to their own home or finding longer term, transitional housing."
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

An Ohio man's attempt to punish his daughter by dressing up as a clown and scaring her backfired when another man attempted to shoot him.

According to news station WKBN, Vernon Barrett Jr. chased his 6-year-old daughter out of his home wearing a clown mask. Police said the little girl ran into an apartment with an unlocked door and told the family living there that a clown was chasing her.

CLOWN TAKEOVER: Juggalos rally at mall to protest gang label they say is wrong and harmful

Dion Santiago, who was in the apartment the girl ran into, told police he saw Barrett standing outside wearing the clown mask, WKBN reports. Police said Santiago shot outside to scare off the mask-wearing father. Barrett was not hit by the gunfire.

When officers arrived, Santiago told officers he was nervous about Barrett because of stories of people dressed as clowns chasing other people.

Similar stories of clowns scaring popped up in East Texas last October, where an unsubstantiated clown threat at Willowridge High School caused officials to temporarily lock down the school.In a separate incident, a student at the Houston Independent School District was arrested and charged for making a terroristic threat against a school using a clown image.

CLOWN PRANK: James Corden clowns around as Pennywise in 'It'

News station WYTV reports Barrett told police that his daughter's mother is serving jail time for child endangerment. Instead of spanking his daughter like her mother did, he said he decided to scare her instead when she was having behavioral issues.

Neither station reported what the little girl had initially done to cause her father to dress up like a clown and scare her.

Both stations report Barrett was charged with child endangerment and inducing panic. Santiago is charged with using weapons while intoxicated.

See accidentally scary clowns in the gallery above.
AUSTIN -- A top-level shakeup in Gov. Greg Abbott's office will see a new chief of staff, press secretary and other senior staff members in coming weeks, officials announced Monday.

The changes, expected for several weeks, come as Abbott gears up for a reelection campaign and at a midpoint in his first term, a normal transition point for staff overhauls in the Texas governor's office.

Such transitions allow some current staff to move on to higher-paying private sector jobs and allow Abbott to bring in and promote new top aides as he begins the second half of his term.

Officials said the changes will take effect Oct. 1.

Aides confirmed Monday that Daniel Hodge, who has been Abbott's chief of staff since he became governor in 2015, will be replaced by Luiz Saenz, Abbott's former director of appointments who is now an Austin consultant. Hodge has been with Abbott since 2002.

Communications director Matt Hirsch will add the new title of deputy chief of staff. He is replacing Reed Clay, who is becoming Abbott's chief operating officer.

Press secretary John Wittman will transition to a similar post in Abbott's campaign.

John Colyandro, the executive director of the Texas Conservative Coalition who served as an ethics policy adviser to Abbott, will become Abbott's policy director and a senior advisor.

Tommy Williams, a former state senator who is the vice chancellor for federal and state relations at the Texas A&M University System. will become senior advisor for fiscal affairs.

Sarah Hicks, Williams former top aide when he was chairman of the Senate Finance, will be Abbott's budget director.

Former Senate parliamentarian Walter Fisher will be Abbott's new legislative director.

Peggy Venable, a senior visiting fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation and Texas director of Americans for Prosperity, will be the new appointments director.

The changes are expected to be formally announced Monday afternoon.
Manufacturing in San Antonio is lot like the city itself  timeless and deeply rooted in history on one hand, yet changing at breakneck speed on the other.

As the city celebrates its 300th anniversary next year, so too will the citys manufacturing industry. Yes, in those earliest days of San Antonios history, manufacturing was already a critical piece of the economy in the form of weaving, ceramics, leathercraft, grist milling and stone work, among others.

Three centuries later, manufacturing remains as embedded in the past and future of San Antonio as the Alamo, the River Walk, the military and our multi-cultural population. Past, present, future  manufacturing is always there.

Yet many in our city are barely aware of manufacturings impact. Well-known brands like Toyota and Caterpillar are widely recognized for their local manufacturing presence, but the great majority of the more than 51,000 people who work in San Antonio-area manufacturing do so at much smaller companies  operations that employ 10, 50 or 100 people and serve customers around the globe.

Let that sink in for a moment  51,000 people  making things like medical devices, helicopter parts, coffee, wiring, pharmaceuticals, beer and so many more products.

San Antonios economy has become much more tech driven in recent years and so has its manufacturing sector. Take a walk through most modern manufacturing plants and youre likely to see robots working side by side with people, 3D printers, and computers humming with software that enables ultra-precise machining and assembly.

And workers with solid science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills working in clean, safe environments, who have boundless opportunities for wage and personal growth if they are committed to a lifetime of learning.

Manufacturing Day, a nationwide effort to spotlight modern manufacturings myriad career opportunities and the positive impact the industry has on local communities, is coming up on Oct. 6. Area manufacturers will host plant tours to demonstrate how manufacturers, educators and civic leaders are working together to nurture the advanced manufacturing industry of tomorrow and to show what manufacturing is today and what it is not.

CalTex, which produces a line of car care products, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, where Tundra and Tacoma pickup trucks are made, will host the two SAMA-sponsored tours. Other local companies will host similar events. We encourage all who are involved in the economic development of our city to attend a Manufacturing Day event. Visit www.sama-tx.org for details.

In addition, SAMA is working with researchers at Trinity University to update economic impact data on the local manufacturing industry. The last such study, conducted in 2011, produced a long list of eye-opening facts, including:

51,025 local employees work in manufacturing.

Those jobs pay on average 11 percent better than other jobs in the area.

Manufacturing has a total economic impact locally of $22.5 billion, or likely more than $30 billion if exported goods are included.

Manufacturings local economic impact more than tripled from $7 billion in 1991.

SAMA plans to release the new economic impact study results in December. We expect the data to demonstrate again that manufacturing, one of San Antonios first industries, remains a thriving and growing economic engine, one that continues to create durable and lucrative career options for all San Antonians eager to work hard, learn and grow.

Rey Chavez is president and CEO of the San Antonio Manufacturers Association. F.M. Duffy Shea is chairman of the association and president of Alamo Iron Works.
In the wake of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, residents across Texas and Florida are returning to a much different home than the one they left. Many homes have already reported mild to heavy damage from the hurricanes and more are being noted hourly.

Although it may seem contradictory, a house may have storm damage even if the effects of the storm aren't immediately obvious at first glance. HomeVestors, also known as the "We Buy Ugly Houses" people, wants to ensure all homeowners are informed. The National Storm Damage Center has a comprehensive checklist for home and property inspection, as well as tips on what to look for after a storm.

Look before you step

First and foremost, it's important to access the situation. Before thoroughly inspecting a house, residents should always check where they're stepping to make certain that there isn't any broken glass, fallen power lines, spills or other hazards around the immediate area.

Inspect the roof

Once the surroundings have been checked and the area is confirmed safe, they can proceed to house inspection. One of the most susceptible areas of a home for damage is the roof. Residents must always double check to make sure there aren't any fallen trees or objects that could potentially cause structural damage. Common signs of roof damage include:

Holes in the roof

Split seams

Missing shingles

Bruised or dented asphalt shingles

Cracked or broken tile, slate, or concrete shingles

Granules collecting in gutters or downspouts

Leaks in your roof or ceiling

Dents on vents, gutters, or flashing

Check windows and doors

It's also important to inspect all windows and doors for damage too. Residents should check all windows and glass for fractures, cracks, holes, shattered panels or damaged frames. Next, they should look at doors for wood splinters or broken hinges. In the event of a broken window, owners should board them up to keep the house secure until it can be fixed properly.

Look at exterior side materials

Another area to check for is the exterior surface on the sides of the home. Always search carefully for dents, cracks, splitting, holes and chips or discoloration to brick or siding.

Inspect appliances

The last major item to examine are appliances. Although these aren't a part of an actual home, maintenance to systems like HVAC can get expensive. Speak with an HVAC company or vendor to see if any damage or malfunction is covered under warranty before replacing.

Report the damage

After collecting a list of repairs that need to be made, homeowners should contact their insurance provider and then contact their emergency management agency.

Contact HomeVestors to Learn More

HomeVestors has experts available anytime to speak with homeowners who need to sell their ugly house, families looking to buy or rent or investors seeking a franchise opportunity.

For more information about HomeVestors in San Antonio, call 1-800-44-BUYER or complete the contact form on the website. HomeVestors is a team of home buyers, happy to answer questions and help families into a home or out of an ugly situation. Each office is independently owned and operated.
(Famous Chinese Peking Opera "Farewell My Concubine" is being staged at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York)

Farewell My Concubine, a famous Chinese Peking Opera, was highly praised by an American audience after being staged at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the evening of Sept. 15, local time, thepaper.cn reported.

The opera was arranged in a Chinese style courtyard in the Museum, giving the Western audience an authentic oriental experience with Chinese opera and a Chinese atmosphere.

The distance between the stage and the audience is very close, which gave us a close look at the detailed movements of the actors, said a professor who teaches at New York University.

This is a great piece, a female in New Yorks literature and art circle commented. I like the make-up and the sword dance of the heroine, but I most like the traditional music rebounded in the courtyard, said the artiste.

The second show in the Museum will be streamed live for billions online around the globe, said Dr. Zhixin Jason Sun, Curator of Department of Asian Culture, Metropolitan Museum of Art. The video recordings will be permanently housed by the Museum.

It is a prelude to Chinese-foreign cooperation and a good example of crossover cooperation between museums, artists, and film directors, said the founder of Hong & Mei, a culture company committed to reviving Peking Opera.
As we approach the end of the lambing and calving spring period (euphemism for winter), a number of farmers have already told me they are over it. It is a time of long work hours and this winter seems to have been particularly wet and grey. As I drive past those New Zealand First billboards, I think what a shrewd slogan for an election at the end of winterHad enough?  yes. So, at this low time, here is an attempt at humour from me. It is a gentle poke at vets and how we sometimes like to project ourselves to our colleagues. The story is fiction but some parts are based in reality.

Case Study:

Final draft

Cfer, a two-year-old neutered male, domestic short haired cat was presented with a 10cm long, fine strand of fibrous material protruding from a 2mm diameter skin wound on the lower lumbar midline. The strand was identified as a few fibres from the supraspinous ligament, probably just caught and torn out by a claw of the cat Cfer had been fighting the previous evening. The exit area was disinfected and the fibres cut at dermis level. No adverse sequellae have been reported since.

First draft

John Brown brought his cat Cfer into the clinic because there was a long thread of something sticking out of his back. I didnt have a clue what it was  animal, mineral or vegetable. My first best guess was a piece of old, sun-baked, very fine fishing line with maybe a very small hook anchoring it under the skin. John told me Cfer just turned up like this that morning, but otherwise, his behaviour had been completely normal. I got John to leave Cfer with me. I took a photo on my phone and, looking for ideas, sent it to the other vets in the practice who were out on farm. I was about to X-ray Cfer when I had to go out, too.

Later in the day, with still no ideas, I was staring at a shelf of textbooks, not knowing which one could help me, when old Bob got back. He looked at Cfer in his cage and told me what it was. He had seen this once before. Snip it off and send him home, he smiled. I asked why he hadnt texted earlier and he reminded me his phones screen hadnt worked since he dropped it three months earlier. He has got one of those old ones with buttons. Who walks around with a mobile that is only good for phoning up people these days!

When John picked up Cfer he mentioned there had been a feral cat, twice the size of Cfer, hanging around home recently. I offered to loan John a clinic cage to take Cfer home in but he insisted he had always transported his cats loose in the car. John is a really good client and I wasnt going to argue with him. As he walked out the door, with his feline tucked under his arm, some Wally pulled out from the grog shop, next door, right in front of a logging truck. During the extended horn blast that followed Cfer broke loose, made a lightning bolt for the undergrowth at the back of the clinic and hasnt been seen since.

David Haugh

Wellsford Vet Clinic

vetsonline.co.nz/wellsfordvet
The Warkworth Structure Plan process is underway and Auckland Council is calling for public submissions to contribute to the plan.

The Structure Plan will outline how future urban areas surrounding the Warkworth township will develop.

Council held two public consultation days at the Warkworth Town Hall this month, to show how the plan will be put together and gather feedback.

Auckland Council principal planner Ryan Bradley says its important to understand the process is very specific and in its earliest stage.

A lot of people think this is the time to talk about Hill Street or the motorway, but that is a separate issue, he says.

Right now, we are putting the maps in front of people to show what our research team has identified as important services or sites, and we would like to refine those with public feedback at this stage.

Mr Bradley says heritage sites are an important example.

Local people know what has historical value better than anyone. We would like them to point out anything we should preserve during development.

He says the other key to this stage of the process is identifying what people value as Warkworth grows.

This could be the ability to walk your child to school, in which case we would ensure good footpath accessibility is built in to any development.

We will make decisions mainly based on common themes, but if we see a good idea, we will consider it. Its important to put forward any thoughts in a submission.

Mr Bradley says people will have the opportunity, once this background information is complete, to draw on maps where they would like public amenities to be located, during the workshop phase in June.

Council will also be running an interactive session with Mahurangi College and Warkworth Primary School students to engage them in the Structure Plan.

Info or to submit: visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your-say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on/warkworth-structure-plan/Pages/consultation-documents.aspx
If you do not have a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, but want to view unlimited articles for the month, please choose this option.
Local News, Crime, Business & Finance, National & World News, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: September 18 2017

Proposed Regulation Requires Credit Rating Agencies to Comply with New York's First-in-the-Nation Cybersecurity Regulation; Regulation Would Give the DFS Oversight of Credit Reporting Agencies for the First Time Ever.

Albany, NY - September 18, 2017 - In response to the recent cyberattack that exposed the personal private data of nearly 150 million consumers nationwide, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed the Department of Financial Services to issue new regulation making credit reporting agencies to register with New York for the first time and comply with this state's first-in-the-nation cybersecurity standard.

The annual reporting obligation also provides the DFS Superintendent with the authority to deny and potentially revoke a consumer credit reporting agency's authorization to do business with New York's regulated financial institutions and consumers if the agency is found to be out of compliance with certain prohibited practices, including engaging in unfair, deceptive or predatory practices.

"A person's credit history affects virtually every part of their lives and we will not sit idle by while New Yorkers remain unprotected from cyberattacks due to lax security," Governor Cuomo said. "Oversight of credit reporting agencies will help ensure that personal information is less vulnerable to cyberattacks and other nefarious acts in this rapidly changing digital world. The Equifax breach was a wakeup call and with this action New York is raising the bar for consumer protections that we hope will be replicated across the nation."

Under the proposed regulation, all consumer credit reporting agencies that operate in New York must register annually with DFS beginning on or before February 1, 2018 and by February 1 of each successive year for the calendar year thereafter. The registration form must include an agency's officers or directors who will be responsible for compliance with the financial services, banking, and insurance laws, and regulations.

"The data breach at Equifax demonstrates the necessity of strong state regulation like New York's firstinthenation cybersecurity actions," said Financial Services Superintendent Maria T. Vullo. "This is one necessary action of several that DFS will take to protect New York's markets, consumers and sensitive information from criminals."

The DFS Superintendent may refuse to renew a consumer credit reporting agency's registration if the Superintendent finds that the applicant or any member, principal, officer or director of the applicant, is not trustworthy and competent to act as or in connection with a consumer credit reporting agency, or that the agency has given cause for revocation or suspension of such registration, or has failed to comply with any minimum standard.

The proposed regulation also subjects consumer reporting agencies to examinations by DFS as often as the Superintendent determines is necessary, and prohibits agencies from the following:

Directly or indirectly employing any scheme, device or artifice to defraud or mislead a consumer.

Engaging in any unfair, deceptive or predatory act or practice toward any consumer or misrepresent or omit any material information in connection with the assembly, evaluation, or maintenance of a credit report for a consumer located in New York State.

Engaging in any unfair, deceptive, or abusive act or practice in violation of section 1036 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.

Including inaccurate information in any consumer report relating to a consumer located in New York State.

Refusing to communicate with an authorized representative of a consumer located in New York State who provides a written authorization signed by the consumer, provided that the consumer credit reporting agency may adopt procedures reasonably related to verifying that the representative is in fact authorized to act on behalf of the consumer.

Making any false statement or make any omission of a material fact in connection with any information or reports filed with a governmental agency or in connection with any investigation conducted by the superintendent or another governmental agency.
Looking to stay up to date about all of the news stories and local headlines that are important to Long Islanders? We've rounded up the top coverage for all of the important topics from multiple sources around Long Island, so you can be sure you've got the most recent update on the top stories for Long Island. Have an idea for a news story? Email us at news@longisland.com

Columnists Press Releases
Local News, Business & Finance, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: September 18 2017

Milestone Coincides with Beginning of National SepticSmart Week 2017.

Suffolk County, NY - September 18, 2017 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today kicked off SepticSmart Week 2017 by highlighting that Suffolk County has already received nearly 600 registrations by homeowners interested in the Septic Improvement Program. This first of its kind program provides financial incentives to help homeowners replace their outdated septic systems or cesspools with advanced wastewater technologies. These advanced systems significantly reduce nitrogen pollution and play a critical role in restoring the health of our water bodies on Long Island.

To date, 587 residents have registered to submit an application for the program. In total, 149 residents have completed an application and 87 residents have been awarded grant certificates. Suffolk County has already installed one Advanced Onsite Wastewater Treatment System as part of the Septic Improvement Program with three additional permits pending.

Suffolk County is leading the way to replace outdated septic systems and cesspools, and during SepticSmart Week we are all reminded that we all can play a role in helping to reclaim our water, said County Executive Bellone. With installations already taking place, the Septic Improvement Program is proving to be a popular, practical and cost effective option to our residents."

County Executive Bellone urges all residents to use this opportunity to become better educated on septic systems and their maintenance. Proper and adequate maintenance of septic systems will save residents money, help maintain property value, protect the health of residents and contribute to the protection of the environment.

SepticSmart Week is an annual outreach initiative through the United States Environmental Protection Agency focused on educating homeowners and communities on the proper care and maintenance of their septic systems. The EPA recommends the following tips to care for residential septic systems:

Inspect and Pump Frequently

The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional.

Use Water Efficiently

The average indoor water use in a typical single-family home is nearly 70 gallons per individual, per day. Just a single leaky or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day.

Properly Dispose of Waste

Whether you flush it down the toilet, grind it in the garbage disposal, or pour it down the sink, shower, or bath, everything that goes down your drains ends up in your septic system. What goes down the drain affects how well your septic system works. Do not flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper.

Never Flush

You should not flush items that may pose an issue with proper disposal. These include items such as cooking grease or oil; flushable wipes; photographic solutions; feminine hygiene products; condoms; dental floss; diapers; cigarette butts; coffee grounds; cat litter; paper towel; pharmaceutical; household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners.

Maintain Your Drainfield

The drainfield is a component of the septic system that removes contaminants from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank and is an important part of the septic system. Never park or drive on your drainfield; plant trees the appropriate distance from your drainfield to keep roots from growing into your septic system; keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drainfield area because excess water slows down or stops the wastewater treatment process.

To learn more about proper care and maintenance of your septic system please visit: www.epa.gov/septic

The Septic Improvement Program falls under the auspice of County Executive Bellones Reclaim Our Water initiative. Launched in 2014, Reclaim Our Water includes $383 million in federal and state aid for the largest expansion of sewer infrastructure in Suffolk County since the 1970s. The initiative is supported by the 2015 Suffolk County Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan, which provides critical recommendations to manage and protect the regions water resources.

For the first year of the program, total accessible funds available amount to $2 million through the Countys Assessment Stabilization Reserve Fund (ASRF). Subsequently, each year through 2021 will be funded with $2 million from the Suffolk County ASRF. Funding for the grant-based program was made possible by Suffolk County residents who voted to approve a 2014 referendum, which authorized use of funding for nitrogen reducing septic systems.

The loan program will be administered by Community Development Corporation of Long Island Funding Corp, with financial support from Bridgehampton National Bank, in the amount $1 million and financial commitments from several philanthropic foundations.

Suffolk Countys newly launched Reclaim Our Water Septic Improvement Program website provides homeowners with financial, regulatory, technical and infrastructure aspects of the Septic Improvement Program. This also includes a list of wastewater industry leaders with information pertaining to septic industry training that are in accordance to Suffolk County law and the recently updated Suffolk County Sanitary Code.
2017 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road to kick off in NW China

The 2017 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road will kick off on Sept. 19 in Dunhuang, northwest Chinas Gansu province. The event is meant to push forward the positive role of media in promoting the Belt and Road Initiative.

The international media forum will be attended by 265 media outlets from 126 countries. Hosted by the Peoples Daily, the forum has been held for three years since 2014. Last year, the forum attracted 212 mainstream media outlets from 101 countries.

(File Photo)

China highly values the forum. Media plays an essential role in communicating information, enhancing mutual trust, and building consensus. This forum provides a platform for media from many countries to engage in dialogue and practice cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his congratulatory message to the 2016 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road.

This years media forum is an event held under the spirit of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in May, when President Xi called on people to stick to the Silk Road spirit of peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning, and mutual benefit.

Dunhuang, an ancient town on the old Silk Road, was an important intersection between East and West.

The upcoming forum will provide a high-end platform for major Chinese enterprises and domestic and international media to conduct dialogues. It will also open a window to the world to better understand the Belt and Road Initiative, the Peoples Daily said in a notice about the media forum on Aug. 18.

Many topics will be discussed at the forum, including global coordination, the roles of governments and enterprises, smart manufacturing, the healthcare industry, the digital economy, and the cultural and tourism industry.

The forum will also host activities, including influential think tank seminars, themed speeches, high-end dialogues, and large-scale media tours.

Related: Foreign journalists on Belt and Road media tour of Gansu province

Amongst the projects, activities and sites being visited by the journalists during their four-day stay in Gansu province are the Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum, Silk Road Cultural Expo, Zongzhai Town Modern Agricultural Demonstration Area and Gobi Modern Agricultural Industrial Park. Others are the Kelu Wind Power Saving Project, Zhangzhi Cultural Industrial Park, Xuanzang Pilgrimage Museum, Mogao Grottoes, Mingsha (Singing Sand) Mountain, Crescent Moon Spring and the Silk Road and Flower Rain performance in Dunhuang.
ADS ADS



The Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ) Festival Gala, presented by title sponsor Bovet 1822, returned in its ninth year at a new downtown location, the Art Gallery of Ontario on September 10, 2017. $1.1 million dollars was raised at the gala event, which was held during the Toronto Film Festival.



Co-chaired by Natasha Koifman and Suzanne Boyd, the APJ Festival Gala was co-hosted by an influential team, including APJ founder Paul Haggis, Cuba Gooding Jr., Ben Stiller, Shantelle and Yannick Bisson, George Stromboulopoulos, and Audrey Raffy, daughter of BOVET 1822 owner Pascal Raffy.



Ms. Raffy is a firm supporter of her fathers projects and shares his dedication to APJ. Thanks to Bovets support, APJ is able to give 100 percent of every dollar raised directly to supporting health, dignity, and education initiatives in Haiti. Since Pascal Raffys acquisition of the Swiss watch manufacturer, the charity endeavors undertaken by Bovet 1822 have been devoted exclusively to children and education. In 2013, Mr. Raffy was so moved by what he experienced working with APJ that he pledged an official, long-term partnership between his company and the charity. BOVET 1822 has contributed $1 million of support annually for five years, for a total of $5 million to date. Mr. Pascal Raffy and BOVETs significant contribution to APJ has been made permanent through the founding of the Academy for Peace and Justice.



The event kicked off with a surprise for guests in attendance, when APJ CEO David Belle and Haggis called on notable attendees to join them in the spirit of social justice and activism to help serve the meal. All the co-hosts jumped up from their seats and proceeded to serve the guests.

The evening continued with George Stromboulopoulos introducing the inaugural Canadian Changemaker Award, presented by Birks, to philanthropist Gary Slaight, honoring his commitment to supporting causes with integrity and impact.



Later that evening, Haggis and Belle with Bovet 1822s Audrey Raffy presented Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jackson Browne with the 2017 Peace and Justice Activism Award, previously awarded to Sean Penn and Susan Sarandon.



Jackson Browne presented with the Bovet Amadeo Fleurier timepiece Audrey Raffy, elegantly dressed and wearing her namesake Miss Audrey BOVET 1822 timepiece, personally presented Bovet 1822 timepieces to Ben Stiller, and Cuba Gooding Junior as a token of thanks for their contributions to the APJ cause. Ben Stiller was gifted the BOVET Amadeo Fleurier, and Cuba Gooding Junior accepted the BOVET Fleurier Jumping Hour timepiece.

Audrey Raffy and Ben Stiller  Bovet

A live auction throughout the evening, led by auctioneer Stephen Ranger, helped to sell one-of-a-kind experiences that went for impressive amounts in support of the cause, including: A private atelier tour and tea with Zac Posen and Susan Sarandon and a chance to bid on the ultimate VIP concert experience with Sir Paul McCartney.



Guests in attendance were treated to musical performances by Slaight Music artist Kayla Diamond, winner of the labels Its Your Shot contest as well ad Haitian musician and longtime friend of APJ Paul Beaubrun.
Julie Desrosiers began her legal career at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin over 25 years ago, after studying philosophy as an undergraduate. Though she enjoyed the subject, she felt it was too passive and wanted to study something with more influence in society, which led her to study law. Eventually, she would became global leader of the firms IP and technology group. Desrosiers says: Early on, it was clear that I wanted to be a litigator, so I started in the commercial litigation group. At the time, Fasken Martineaus IP team was in its early form. When one of the leading IP partners was appointed to the bench, the opportunity arose for Desrosiers to take on additional work in IP litigation: I had been practising commercial litigation for about 10 years at that point and I was really open to that change.

The utility test

Desrosiers was drawn to the international nature of IP work, particularly patent litigation: Its connected to all of the innovations in the world. Ive been doing this for 15 years with pleasure!

In one of her career highlights, her first patent case before Supreme Court of Canada, Desrosiers was at the forefront of arguments connected to the test for patent utility. Last year, these discussions culminated with the AstraZeneca Canada appeal: It completely changed the test in Canada for utility. It came back to what it was maybe 10 years ago, which is more aligned to what it is in the UK and US, Desrosiers says.

So, if an invention is capable of some practical application then it should be useful. Judges are considering what the promise is, instead of just considering what the invention is and what it does. Patentees were really struggling with the test as it was, but thanks to the Supreme Court, now thats been changed.

As a result of the same judgment, the promise doctrine  a scheme from Canadas 1985 Patent Act for determining the validity of utility claims  was removed. According to Desrosiers, this is a good change: The promise doctrine as it was applied by the Federal Court led to the invalidity of many patents for blockbuster drugs, for instance. A drug would be beneficial for tonnes of people around the world, yet it would be decided that the patent for the drug was not be useful.

Now, Canada is more aligned with the rest of the world. I think it reassures patentees that Canada will comply with international obligations.

International pharma patents

For foreign patent owners, Desrosiers highlights a common issue: There would never be a challenge in any other jurisdiction and when you go into Canada, many patents were found notto be useful. That was a problem especially for international companies who file a patent on two PCT applications in foreign countries with the expectation that when the patent is filed in Canada, it would be valid in Canada and this was not the case.

Recently, market commentators have been said that the decision has lowered the bar for receiving patents, thus favouring foreign multinational companies over Canadian patent owners. Desrosiers says: I would not say that it favours international patent owners over Canadian patent owners. I think the approach of Canadian courts to utility is more aligned with foreign jurisdictions, so now the test is probably more similar to those applied in the US, the UK and other common law countries like Australia. Its easier for a patentee to know what to expect when they file a patent and go into litigation in Canada.

On the other hand, while the utility test is simpler, Desrosiers identifies an issue for Canadian and international patent owners: You dont have a promise. It could be different, depending on who the judge is - one judge could see a promise here and another judge will see a promise there.

Now, as the promise does not have to be part of the claim, Desrosiers says patent files face greater scrutiny: It always depends on how you construe some words in the specification. Its difficult for clients because it creates some insecurity. You do not know what the judge will decide. The question is: Does this invention have some utility in a practical sense?

Free trade agreement drives patent change

In Canadas impending implementation of The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), a free trade agreement with Europe, Desrosiers identifies a number of concerns for the pharma industry.

Among these are the proposed amendments to a variety of regulations to implement CETA, including the patent term extension that Canada and Europe agreed to extend in Canada. She adds: Another concern is the right of appeal of the innovators if ever they are unsuccessful throughout PM(NOC) regulations  the Canadian equivalent of the Orange Book in the US. In response to CETA plans, proposed amendments to the Patented Medicines (Notice of Compliance) Regulations [PM(NOC)] included a pledge for right of appeal for all parties in patent litigation.

At the heart of these amendments is the way brands and generics will litigate their entry into the market, a generic version of the brand drug that is approved.

In Canada, such issues call for litigation whereas in the US, Desrosiers explains: There is an automatic stay at the beginning to prevent the generic from entering the market. This stay is for 24 months, so the court needs to issue a ruling before then. If not, the generic can enter the market and the only thing that is left is an action for patent infringement.

Patent Act proposals

In addition, Canada is making substantial changes to the way these litigations are addressed: In the past, it used to be summary proceedings where all the witnesses were cross-examined out of court. When you go and argue these cases, its really based on paper material with no witnesses.

Now, Canada is suggesting that this should change. They want to address these litigations as usual trials where you will go to court with your expert and witnesses to consider the validity and infringement of a patent.

In August, the Canadian government opened a public consultation about all proposed amendments to the Patent Act. It is thought that the rules could be in force in 2019. According to Desrosiers, there is no time like the present to revise the whole litigation of patents in Canada: In pharma patent litigation, because proceedings were done out of court, because judges who decided whether the patent was invalid or infringed had not heard from any experts, this led to some changes that were surprising.

These proceedings have been highly criticised both by generics, brands, practitioners and the court. I hope that these changes Canada intends to make to the regulation will help Canada to be more aligned with its international partners.

Biologic patents

In pharma innovation, Desrosiers notices increasing approval of biologic patents: The years to come will be very interesting in terms of patents in Canada, pharmaceuticals, the way governments address drugs and the way they are marketed. Despite the growing interest in biologic patents, Desrosiers says: Canada is slower than other jurisdictions to approve them because as there are maybe 20 different biologic drugs approved in Europe and there are maybe five of six in Canada, but its moving up. Litigation with these products will be interesting because in terms of how it can be protected, its different from making a molecule with a chemistry process in a lab, different than making protein or isolating a DNA sequence. Is it patentable or not?

Sometimes, with these inventions, the big thing is the process to make them instead of the composition itself, which sometimes cannot be patented. We see that a lot in the US and will see that in Canada in the years to come, which will be interesting for patent litigators like me.

An additional inconvenience in processing biologic patents, is the unusual delay: I think they take so long to process because it is new. It is likely that the companies who develop them went to the bigger jurisdictions to complete all the tests for approval. They are protected, but then you have to go through all of the regulatory processes in order to get approval.

Health Canada might be pickier than other jurisdictions for some things, because these products are new and different.

Staying motivated

After more than 25 years in the profession, Desrosiers practice has benefitted from dynamic experience in patent litigation and technology. While Desrosiers has come to expect change in every aspect of the market, legislation and her professional environment, her passion for IP remains the same. She describes being asked to be the first woman from the Montreal region to sit on the international board of Fasken Martineau as one of her happiest moments.

Desrosiers says, organisation and focus are keys to her success: Work when youre working, work. When youre doing something else, do something else.

Another key to success, she says, is to be surrounded by a devoted team: Im someone who really likes to work as a team and I delegate a lot  the young lawyers I work with really get involved and deliver on what they commit to.

For Desrosiers, team work extends beyond the workplace: I have three kids  Im a mum! I delegate at home too. I have help at home, otherwise I would not be able to do it. Working together is always a plus, you get to have the impact of other brilliant people.
ADS ADS

The partnership between Bulgari and Maserati began in 2012. After the successive launch of two Bulgari chronographs bearing the colours of the Trident brand Bulgari created two new Octo Maserati watch models: GranSport and GranLusso, officially presented last Tuesday at the Frankfurt motor show alongside Maserati. These two models are reserved for owners of a car bearing the Trident brand emblem, and are only available in Bulgari Boutiques.

 Bulgari

These two watches feature retrograde minutes and jumping hours displays, expressed through an aesthetic evoking the style codes of Maserati cars. As for the dial effect, it recall the rev counter of a real Maserati, combining dedicated tokens with fields of expression legitimising the rapprochement between the watchmaking and automobile worlds.

Resolutely Bulgari, subtly Maserati

Bulgari allowed this creativity to express itself boldly yet without undue emphasis. The colours, materials and fonts subtly and elegantly evoke the Maserati world without needing to rely too heavily on visual references for this watch with its dual identity. This resolutely Bulgari model smoothly flaunts its membership of the Octo family, with the powerfully structured case that has become a benchmark in terms of contemporary design and recalling the brands roots firmly embedded in its Italian heritage. The subtly Maserati watch is clearly proud to bear the iconic carmakers name, attributes and values, particularly those of prestige and Italian refinement, characterised by the modernity of the design and offering a distinctive reminder of the Maserati codes: a dial design evoking car dashboard and counters, along with a topstitched leather strap reminiscent of automobile upholstery.

The trust-driven relationship between the Italian manufactory and car manufacturer has already resulted in two chronographs since 2012: the Octo Quadri-Retro and the Octo Velocissimo Chronograph. These models are particularly appreciated by devotees of the automobile world, not only because of the legitimacy of the chronograph complication linked with the sporting measurement of time, but also because of the double signature of these horological instruments: signed Bulgari and subtly bearing the legendary Maserati trident.

Case back view  Bulgari

As informed connoisseurs looking for discreet luxury based on cutting-edge skills matched by avant-garde technologies and a powerful, high-end contemporary design, Maserati lovers naturally appreciate the watches created by Bulgari and discreetly bearing the trident. On this 41 mm-diameter watch that is as legible as a car dashboard, the emblem highlights the round hour display window.

The latter function is powered by the mechanical Retro BVL 262 calibre, entirely developed and produced in-house, just as the Maserati engines are made by the constructors engine designers and builders. This 33-jewel self-winding movement  decorated in the finest tradition using Cotes de Geneve, chamfering and bevelling techniques  has a 42-hour power reserve and oscillates at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour, a token of optimal efficiency and precision. These qualities are matched by the instant legibility  above and beyond the complex underlying horological mechanism  of the jumping hours and retrograde minutes display, ensuring an immediate grasp of this valuable information. All of which is of course ideal when at the wheel of a Maserati.

GranSport or GranLusso

Just as a Maserati is capable of smoothly transitioning from road to track, from long-haul journeys to the refined havens of grand hotels, the Octo Maserati by Bulgari can be appreciated in a sporty yet extremely elegant interpretation, or in an elegant yet relaxed expression.

The former is the GranSport version in black DLC-treated carbon. The dial is black, while the indications  numerals, hour-markers, counters  and the hands are silver-toned and blue. It proudly proclaims its contemporary strength and avant-garde design.

Octo Maserati GranSport  Bulgari

The latter is the GranLusso in 18kt pink gold. While its dial is also black, the entire set of hands and indications are in pink gold  a precious and refined touch from Bulgari the jeweller.

Octo Maserati GranLusso  Bulgari

The two instruments with their sophisticated mechanical hearts are an elegant and modern take on the codes of Italian-style high-end watchmaking and carmaking. These two extremely exclusive watches will be introduced at the upcoming Frankfurt motor show (IAA), even though a few lucky gentlemen drivers will already have had the pleasure of receiving their own timepiece of the Octo GranTurismo exclusive edition. They form an exclusive circle indeed, since this special edition in black DLC-treated steel is reserved for the 30 clients who purchased the new Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio cars unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in early July.
Kochi: The Kerala police team probing the sensational actress assault case on Monday said that they are still investigating actress Kavya Madhavan and actor cum director Nadirsha's role in the case.

The police had revealed the crucial detail in a reply to the report submitted on Kavya's anticipatory bail plea. In a plea filed through her husband's lawyer Raman PillaI, Kavya has alleged that police may have been trying to 'implicate her in the case.

Kavya and her mother were questioned earlier as part of the investigation.
Kochi: Actor Dileep's misery seems unending as the Angamaly Judicial Magistrate court on Monday rejected the actors' bail plea for a fourth time.

In his fourth bail plea, the actor requested the court to grant him bail as he has been accused of conspiracy alone. The defense also pointed that Dileep is entitled to get default bail after 60 days.

The actor was arrested in connection with a conspiracy wherein a Malayalam actress was abducted and assaulted in a moving vehicle in Kochi. Meanwhile, the Kerala HC will hear the anticipatory bail plea filed of Dileep's wife Kavya Madhavan today.
I was born and raised in Stamford, Connecticut. My wife was born and raised in Pennsylvania. We lived our entire lives in the North: Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. The earliest recollection I can recall of having a black family in our home was when I was about eight or nine in 1952 or 1953. Pastor John Forte, a local black pastor, and his daughter Joan were frequent visitors to our home. My brother had recently become a Christian. Pastor Forte was one of the pastors who guided him and about 18 other high school students in understanding the teachings of the Bible. Pastor Fortes daughter Joan was one of those students.

Nancy and I moved to Bassett in the fall of 2010. I like the South. I like its history  with regrets that slavery and Jim Crow were practiced by some and tolerated by most. Some of the greatest Americans to ever live were Southerners. Among them were Robert Edward Lee and Thomas Jonathan Stonewall Jackson. I oppose the removal of statues of Lee or Jackson or the renaming of parks, etc. which bear their names.

Much of the animosity towards these two men (I confine my comments to them for the sake of brevity) is the result of ignorance of history and/or learning history that did not happen. To the victor belong the spoils is an old saying. The nation whose army wins a war writes the history of the war. Often that history is skewed to make the victor look good and the defeated look evil.

Jackson and Lee had flaws, as we all do. If those who protest statues of Lee and Jackson will only agree to keeping statues of people with no flaws then no statues of anyone would be erected. Martin Luther King Jr. was unfaithful to his wife (according to his close friend Dr. Abernathy). But Dr. Kings great work in securing God-given rights befits honoring him. Lee after the war worked to heal the wounds of a divided Union. Without his leadership it was quite probably that many Confederates would have waged a guerrilla war for years. He tolerated slavery, but did not like it. We need to remember that he lived 165 years ago and never knew or met people like Clarence Thomas, Thurgood Marshall, Walter Williams, Booker T. Washington, etc.

Today there is behind the pulpit at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in Roanoke a stained glass window that is a memorial to General Stonewall Jackson. (Fifth Avenue Presbyterian is a black American congregation.) It was placed there by Rev. L.L. Downing, the churchs pastor in 1905. His mother and father had been taught to read and write and about the Christian faith by General Jackson. They were slaves at the time. General Jackson broke the law of Virginia which forbade teaching black slaves to read and write. Jacksons wife later recounted that he taught the local slaves to prepare them for a better day. Hardly the actions of what we today consider a racist. Apparently those black Americans who personally knew Jackson thought highly of him. Should his statue be torn down? As the Scripture says, Let him who is without sin topple the first statue.

We would spend our time better studying what caused people to participate in or tolerate slavery. It was probably greed, lust for wealth or some such thing, not racism that was the major cause. Any human being, white or black, or any race can be a racist. Greed is still alive and well in the human race. We all need to examine our own lives to see if we are using anyone badly to gain our own selfish ambitions for wealth and power. (Abortion, for instance, practiced by some but tolerated by most, kills more black human beings than slavery or Jim Crow did combined. The slave lived with hope for a better future; the aborted black babys hope has been extinguished.) The value of mementos of the past is an aid to keep us from repeating the errors that some practiced, almost all tolerated.

Don Barnhart is a resident of Bassett
The defendants are charged with joining a terrorist cell in Egypt's governorate of Marsa Matrouh affiliated with the Libya Daesh militant group

Cairo Criminal Court sentenced Saturday seven members of what is known in the media as the Libya terrorist cell to death on a number of terror-related charges.

The courts preliminary verdict is scheduled to be referred to the countrys Grand Mufti for a consultative non-binding opinion, as per Egypts penal code.

The court also ordered to adjourn the verdict on other 13 defendants in that case to 25 November.

The defendants are charged with joining a terrorist cell in Egypt's governorate of Marsa Matrouh affiliated with the Libya Daesh militant group.

The defendants are also charged with joining training camps of the terrorist group in Syria and Libya, and obtaining military training, as well as planning terrorist acts in Egypt.

According to the court order, the defendants committed their alleged crimes between the years 2012 and 2016 in Matrouh, Cairo and Alexandria governorates in Egypt, and outside Egypt also.

The defendants are also charged with participating in the beheading of 21 Egyptians in Libya.

In February 2015, 21 Egyptian Copts were slaughtered in the Libyan coastal city of Sirte by Daesh militants.

In 2015, the defendants were arrested in Hamam City in Matrouh governorate and accused of conducting attacks on a police station and vital establishments in the city.

In November 2016, the case was referred to court, after the State Security Prosecution revealed the defendants were also involved in attacks on Christians in their governorate, as well as hiding and training seven German citizens who were planning to join Libya's Daesh.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


MGM executives, union leaders and Bridgeport mayor Joseph Ganim spoke with one goal at a press conference Monday morning: A new $600 million casino, creating 7,000 jobs, ready to open within 30 months of groundbreaking.

But the project faces a substantial political hurdle, requiring approval from a governor and state legislature who have already thrown their support behind a competing East Windsor casino to be run by the state's tribal gaming operators.

"We want to be here in Connecticut and we want to be here in Bridgeport," MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren, a Bridgeport native, said during the press conference at Bridgeport's Steelpointe Harbor. "I believe this project could turn the economic tide in the state. We just need to the political commitment to make that happen."

Plans for the gaming resort include 2,000 slot machines, 160 table games, a 300-room hotel, a 700-seat theater, retail stores and restaurants.

The project, which will be privately funded, also comes with financial incentives for the region and the state: an immediate $50 million payment to the state, $8 million in annual payments to Bridgeport, $4.5 million to surrounding communities and a "competitive" tax rate," MGM officials said.

"It's about jobs. It's about thousands of jobs," Ganim said. "We are behind you 100 percent to make this happen."

Making it happen would require a reversal of the state's 2017 gaming law, which gave exclusive casino development rights to MMCT -- a joint Mohegan-Mashantucket Pequot company. The tribes have pitched their East Windsor project as a necessary move to blunt the financial impact of MGM's planned Springfield casino.

And MMCT slammed MGM's Bridgeport announcement in a statement Monday morning, describing it as part of a "pattern of dishonesty" and saying any such development would void Connecticut's compact with the tribes and end gaming revenues from Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.

"Simply put, authorization of this facility would violate the existing compacts between the two tribes and the state which would immediately end the slot payments that currently sends the state hundreds of million a year in much need revenue," MMCT spokesman Andrew Doba said in a statement. "Our state's elected officials saw through their dishonesty last session, and we expect them to see this latest fib for exactly what it is -- another bought and paid for piece of misinformation."

MGM Senior Vice President Uri Clinton described the Bridgeport casino plan as the only "shovel-ready" project on the table, and said the facility would primarily target the New York gaming market.

"We're going to be asking for approval of this project," Clinton said. "The train is moving fast."

MGM, which has launched public relations and legal campaigns against tribe-centered casino process in Connecticut, has said the state's 2017 gaming act "shortchanges" towns near the proposed East Windsor casino site and the state as a whole. The company unsuccessfully called on the Connecticut legislature to pass an alternative bill that would open up the process to other developers.

In February, MMCT selected East Windsor as the potential site of the casino, which is targeted at competing with the MGM Springfield casino project and which tribal leaders have described as necessary to protect jobs and revenues from the Springfield facility. The selection followed a lengthy process in which municipalities submitted proposals to host the state's first casino on non-Tribal land.

The construction of a new Connecticut casino has drawn interest both in Connecticut and across the Massachusetts border, with supporters of the Connecticut casino measure framing the new casino as a way to protect state gaming revenues and jobs from Massachusetts competition.

A study funded by both tribes suggested out-of-state casino competition could cost Connecticut 9,300 jobs. An analysis by the Connecticut's Office of Fiscal Analysis suggested the competition could cost the state $68 million in annual gaming revenues. And Mohegan Tribal Council Chairman Kevin Brown has described the project as in direct competition with MGM Springfield, which is scheduled to open in late 2018.

MGM sued in federal court to overturn the state's 2015 gaming act, alleging that it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. It also alleged the act violates the Constitution's Commerce Clause by restricting the RFP process to a joint company formed by the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot tribes.

A federal judge dismissed the suit in June of 2016, and last month a federal appeals court rejected MGM's bid to revive its case. The company could file additional litigation against the new bill that specifically authorizes MMCT's casino, now that Malloy has signed it into law.
MGM Resorts International will announce plans to built a casino at Steelpointe Harbor in Bridgeport, Conn., in a move placing the company at odds with both tribal gaming operators and the gaming plans of Connecticut's state government

The casino, called MGM Bridgeport, would "result in thousands of new jobs, bring increased revenue to the city, surrounding communities and the state, and be funded with private investment dollars," MGM said in a media advisory.

Details will be given at a press conference in Bridgeport at 11 a.m. MGM said it plans to partner on the casino with The RCI Group, a Miami-based development firm that specializes in waterfront projects.

MGM's development plans do not appear to fit within Connecticut's current casino laws. In July, Gov. Dannel Malloy signed a act allowing the construction of just one new gaming facility -- by the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes, which are the state's only current casino operators.

That casino, to be built in East Windsor, was pitched by the tribes and supportive lawmakers as a means of competing with MGM's gaming resort in Springfield, which is scheduled to open in 2018.

MMCT, the joint Mohegan-Mashantucket Pequot company developing the East Windsor site, has described MGM Springfield as a major threat to Connecticut's economy and government revenues. A study funded by both tribes suggested out-of-state casino competition could cost Connecticut 9,300 jobs, and an analysis by the Connecticut's Office of Fiscal Analysis suggested the competition could cost the state $68 million in annual gaming revenues.

For its part, MGM has launched an aggressive legal and public relations campaign against the MMCT project, describing Connecticut's granting of exclusive commercial gaming rights to the tribes as anticompetitive, secretive and illegal.

MGM filed a lawsuit against the state's 2015 gaming act, which authorized MMCT to begin seeking a development site. But formal authority for the company to build the casino was not granted until this summer, and a federal judge rejected the suit, ruling that MGM lacked standing to sue, the law did not exclusively favor the tribes and any competitive disadvantage to MGM was too abstract to support a legal claim.

Those concerns could potentially be relitigated, now that Connecticut has formally allowed MMCT's casino and MGM has announced a competing and unauthorized plan.
SPRINGFIELD -- No injuries were reported after as many as 20 shots were exchanged between the occupants of two vehicles in the South End near the soon-to-open MGM Springfield casino early Sunday night, police said.

Police Lt. Jessica Henderson told Western Mass News the shooting occurred on Main Street and that police recovered a number of shell casings.

Sgt. John Delaney told WWLP as many as 20 shots were fired.

The gunfire occurred at Main and Union streets shortly after 5:20 p.m.

WWLP reported witnesses saw a male carrying two guns get out of a Mercedes with Massachusetts plates and open fire on a vehicle that was stopped in traffic.

The shooter, a passenger, then got back into the Mercedes which fled, possibly south on Interstate 91.

Henderson said police received reports shots being exchanged between the occupants of both vehicles. At least four vehicles in the area were damaged, she said.

It's not clear if the South End shooting is what led to a vehicle chase, initiated by Springfield police later that night, that ended with a crash in Wilbraham.

Western Mass News is television partner to The Republican and MassLive.com.

Police could not be immediately reached for comment.
AGAWAM -- Soldier On, the Pittsfield-based nonprofit dedicated to ending veteran homelessness by providing permanent, supportive, sustainable housing, held a dedication ceremony Monday afternoon at the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community facility, 702 South Westfield St., in the Feeding Hills section of Agawam.

The former Western Massachusetts Regional Police Academy has been transformed into affordable housing for 51 veterans, including 49 partially furnished units in the renovated academy and two units in a new annex to the building.

U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, Agawam City Council President James P. Cichetti, and state Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Jay Ash were among those who spoke at the dedication ceremony.

In the absence of Agawam Mayor Richard A. Cohen, who was traveling back from Boston at the time of the event, Cichetti welcomed the large crowd of dignitaries to Agawam for the ceremony, including veterans and local and state officials.

"On behalf of the City of Agawam, welcome home," Cichetti, who's running for mayor, said to the veterans. The candidate praised former state Rep. Rosemary Sandlin for getting the legislative process rolling.

Ash credited Congressman Neal for his ability to get things done for his constituents in Western Massachusetts. "Richie Neal is legendary for delivering things back home to his district," Ash said.

Ash spoke on behalf of Gov. Charlie Baker, saying nobody who ever wore a U.S. military uniform "should ever struggle to find a place to live."

State Sen. Donald F. Humason Jr., R-Westfield, state Rep. Nicholas A. Boldyga, R-Southwick, and state Secretary of Veterans' Services Francisco A. Urena were among the many officials in attendance.

When it was Neal's turn to speak, he said the dedication of the new facility marked a "great day for Agawam and a great day for Soldier On." Neal, dean of the state's congressional delegation in Washington, praised Agawam officials for making the necessary zoning changes to accommodate and support the project.

Linda Mansfield, a member of the Soldier On Board of Directors and wife of the late Gordon H. Mansfield, whom the building is named for, was also on hand.

Gordon Mansfield, a former deputy secretary of Veterans Affairs, was a Pittsfield native and highly decorated Army veteran who survived two tours of duty in Vietnam. As company commander of the 101st Airborne Division, Mansfield sustained a spinal cord injury during the 1968 Tet Offensive, for which he received the Distinguished Service Cross -- the second-highest personal decoration for valor in combat.

In July 2010, the former police academy building was transferred to Soldier On through state legislation, allowing for the development of permanent affordable housing for veterans at the Agawam site.

The Agawam project was approved in 2015, with construction beginning in March 2016. The roughly $14 million project was financed through state and federal historic tax credits, in partnership with companies such as Citizens Bank and the Stratford Capital Group.

Soldier On staff will be on site to provide daily support to veterans. The organization also has facilities in Pittsfield, Northampton and Chicopee.
HOLYOKE -- The public works chief said Monday that his department was to blame for the delay in getting the American flag lowered to half-staff on Sept. 11 in honor of 9/11.

The Holyoke Fire Fighters Association, Local 1693, International Association of Fire Fighters, had posted a notice on Facebook that criticized Mayor Alex B. Morse on the matter. The union said Morse "chose not to ensure" that orders from the president and governor were complied with to fly the American flag at City Hall at half-staff on Sept. 11 this year in honor of 9/11, "a callous disregard and disrespect to so many victims."

"Clearly, he is old enough to remember that day and clearly he (chose) not to. This is further evidence that public safety and public safety personnel are not a priority to Alex Morse," the union's Sept. 13 post said. (see below)

But General Superintendent Michael McManus of the Holyoke Department of Public Works said that Morse did issue the order to fly the flags at half-staff but that a miscommunication among DPW staff failed to get the flag lowered in the morning. It was lowered that day as soon as the mistake was noticed, he said.

Morse said the union's post was false and an attempt to score political damage when an inquiry would have resolved any questions.

"This just isn't true. The same protocol as always was followed, but due to a miscommunication at DPW, one flag wasn't lowered right away. Once it was noticed, it was taken care of immediately. This is an ad hominem attack questioning my personal patriotism, which is beyond the pale. Any inquiry would have cleared that up, but the priority seems to score points. Sept. 11 is is a time to honor and remember, not a time to devise a fabricated political attack," Morse said.

Morse is running for re-election to a fourth term in a four-candidate field in the Sept. 26 preliminary election. The top two finishers in that race will move on to compete on Election Day Nov. 7.

The firefighters union has been critical of Morse and Fire Chief John A. Pond related to funding, staffing and disciplinary issues.

McManus said the DPW received Morse's order to lower the flags from Nilka M. Ortiz, the mayor's executive assistant.

"It was a miscommunication and oversight by DPW staff. We all received the communication from Nilka directing us to lower the flag to half-staff. Every day the flag is raised at 6 a.m. when the first shift custodian arrives and is lowered at dusk by the second shift custodian. On days with the directive for flying the flag at half-staff the flag is raised to half-staff in the morning. We aren't sure what time the flag was lowered last Monday because the custodian who was working is out today," McManus said.
AGAWAM - District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced there has been a "significant development" in the unsolved homicide of Lisa Ziegert.

Gulluni said he will announce the information about the 25-year-old murder at a press conference at 2 p.m. Monday at the Hampden County Hall of Justice.

Ziegert, 24, was a teacher's assistant in Agawam Middle School when she was abducted from her job at the Brittany Card & Gift Shoppe on Walnut Street Extension on April 15, 1992. Her body was found four days later on Easter Sunday in a swampy, wooded area off Route 75, about four miles from where she had been abducted.

The Westfield State University graduate had been raped, stabbed and her throat was slit.

A year ago Gulluni released a composite image of a suspect that was generated using new technology called DNA phenotyping. Taking DNA evidence found at the scene, investigators were able to create a profile of her killer.

The DNA analysis said the killer was likely a fair-skinned man of European extraction, likely with hazel or brown eyes and brown or black hair. Because of the date of the crime, authorities estimated he is now in his 50s.

Leydon did not say if the DNA phenotyping led to the possible break in the case.

The killing happened when DNA was just in its infancy and the sample collected at the murder scene was small, degraded and contaminated, so it was difficult to use then. Still, police always knew it would help solve the case in some way.

Ziegert's murder has been one of the most highly publicized crimes in Western Massachusetts. Over the years, there have been multiple developments, but her killer remains unknown.

About 18 months after Ziegert's murder, the television show "Unsolved Mysteries" aired a segment about the killing. After four years of doggedly investigating, in 1996 police had a chance to meet with a team of 10 agents at FBI headquarters in Quantico, Virginia, who were experts on using crime scene evidence to create a profile to describe an unknown killer.

So many people have been investigated over the years, boxes and boxes of paper reports filled a locked closet in the Agawam detective bureau.

When the homicide happened, it sent waves of panic through the city of about 28,000 people. More than more than 400 people signed up for weapons permits in the week following her killing.
A recently formed Super PAC has begun airing attack ads on Sen. Elizabeth Warren, apparently intending to weaken the liberal academic and consumer advocate ahead of a potential 2020 run at the top of the Democratic ticket.



The ads, run by Massachusetts First, accuse Warren of hypocrisy for collecting a hefty salary as a Harvard University professor, only to repeatedly criticize exorbitant college tuition costs in the Senate.



"She was paid a salary of nearly $350,000 -- for teaching a few hours of classes each week," the ads say. "The real irony? While Warren was raking in hundreds of thousands each year, many of her students were taking on massive debt to listen to Warren lecture them on bankruptcy."



The PAC formed in April.



According to the Federal Election Commission, Massachusetts First owes three-quarters of its $200,000 in donations to a hedge fund tycoon who lives on Long Island.



Robert Mercer, 71, serves as CEO of Renaissance Technologies, one of the country's most profitable hedge funds and made his name helping develop speech recognition technology for IBM in the 70s. He owns a controlling share in far-right news organization Breitbart News Network and his company recently bought nearly 2.5 million shares of Time Inc., according to Vanity Fair.



The FEC figures place the $150,000 donation by Mercer to Massachusetts First as his biggest political gift to any organization this year.



Ahead of the 2016 election, Mercer topped the list of donors to the Trump's primary PAC, Make America Number 1, contributing more than $15.5 million, according to the FEC.



According to an article in The New Yorker, Mercer has repeatedly argued that African-Americans were better off before the 1964 Civil Rights Act, passed on conspiracy theories about climate change and the Clintons and prefers the company of cats to humans.

"Massachusetts First intends to remind Massachusetts voters of Senator Elizabeth Warren's dismal record as Senator," said Alberto Martinez, spokesperson for Massachusetts First. "While Senator Warren has been auditioning for higher office and traveling the country to build her political profile, Massachusetts voters have been hurting. Elizabeth Warren is completely out of touch with her constituents, and we intend to make sure Massachusetts voters don't forget."

Martinez, also serves as a top adviser to Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida.



Warren, whose approval rating is hovering around 50 percent, emerged as a top Trump critic during the 2016 election. She faces reelection in 2018 and has more than $9.2 million in her campaign coffers.




UPDATE, 2:19 p.m.:

VERNON, CONN. -- Gary E. Schara has been charged with murder, aggravated rape and kidnapping in connection with the 1992 slaying of Lisa Ziegert in Agawam.

Schara, who appeared in court in a red jumpsuit, waived extradition in Rockville Superior Court after being treated at a Hartford hospital for yet unspecified medical issues.

He was charged through a fugitive from justice warrant and is awaiting transfer by Massachusetts state troopers.

Ziegert, 24, was a teacher's assistant in Agawam Middle School when she was abducted from her job at the Brittany Card & Gift Shoppe on Walnut Extension on April 15, 1992.

Her body was found in a wooded area off Route 75, also known as Suffield Street, on April 19, 1992.

A break in the case came last year, when Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni released a composite image of a suspect generated through a new technology called DNA phenotyping. Taking DNA evidence found at the scene, investigators were able to create a profile of her killer.

This is a developing story that will be updated after further reporting.
When a man in Cape Cod stopped getting his mail for about a week, he decided to check out what was happening. Investigators soon learned the man's mailbox was being used by someone else to ship what appeared to be stolen Fitbits.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said the investigation led to the arrest of a Togolese national on mail fraud and identity theft. Roukayatou Damerogo, 32, a citizen of the Republic of Togo, who lives in Connecticut was arrested Friday and will appear in federal court next month.

A Cape Cod man found out in August that someone put a mail hold at his home. The man went to United States Postal Service branch in Brewster to pick up his mail and discovered a box addressed to him.

Inside the box, according to authorities, was 10 new Fitbits. The man never ordered them.

"The customer had previously been the victim of fraudulent credit card transactions and believed the Fitbit purchases stemmed from the compromised credit card," according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Damerogo called the USPS service branch on Aug. 16 and asked about the package of Fitbits, federal court records show. A couple of days later, she showed up to pick up the items, but police were waiting.

Federal court records said Damerogo admitted she knew the package didn't belong to her. She told investigators someone else paid her to pick up the package.

Investigators asked Damerogo to look through her cell phone, but she asked for it to be returned so she could delete "naked photos" of herself, records state. Detectives believed she was instead deleting pictures of driver's licenses, identification cards and other information related to the ruse.

Damerogo told investigators a man named "Nana" would call her and tell her where to pick up packages. The man would give her fake licenses, records said. Damerogo had a fake driver's license on her, investigators said.

Based on federal records, it appears the investigation into fraud is ongoing. Damerogo had another package in her vehicle and the items had also been stolen, records said. The package was shipped to someone in Westfield. That person was a victim of identity fraud as well.
The Egyptian president emphasised the need to enforce joint Arab efforts to prevent interference in the internal affairs of Arab states

Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi held talks in New York on Sunday with the UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed, with the pair discussing the latest developments in the Middle East, the Egyptian president's office announced on Monday.

According to the official statement, El-Sisi and Bin Zayed discussed the various crises in the region, which are expected to be discussed at the 72nd United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) starting this week.

El-Sisi emphasised the need to enforce joint Arab efforts to prevent interference in the internal affairs of Arab nations, as well as attempts to destabilize Arab states.

The two men discussed UAE-Egypt relations, with Bin Zayed expressing the Emirates' appreciation for the high level of cooperation and coordination between the two nations.

Bin Zayed is heading the Emirati delegation at the UNGA, which is taking place at the UN headquarters in New York.

Also attending Sunday's meeting were Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Khaled Fawzy, the head of Egypt's General Intelligence Directorate.

According to the presidential statement, El-Sisi is due to deliver a speech to the UNGA next Tuesday.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


The Egyptian president's office released details on Monday of his packed schedule ahead of the United Nations General Assembly

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi is in New York this week to attend the 72nd United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and details of his visit released on Monday show a packed schedule of events.

Monday marks the second day of El-Sisi's official visit, and the president's schedule for the day includes meetings with US businessmen and media interviews, according to a press release issued by the Egyptian president's office on Monday morning.

The Egyptian president will be receiving a number of prominent Americans at his official New York residence, including members of the United States Chamber of commerce. He will meet afterwards with members of Business Council for International Understanding.

Also on Monday, the US-based TV network Fox News will interview El-Sisi. The interview follows a previous interview with Fox News in April, during his visit to Washington DC. At the previous UNGA in 2016, El-Sisi was interviewed by CNN.

The Egyptian president arrived in New York on Sunday to participate in the 72nd UNGA. The General Debate starts on Tuesday this week, with El-Sisi due to deliver a speech to the assembly on Tuesday.

On Sunday evening, El-Sisi met with Saudi Ambassador to Washington Prince Khaled Bin Salman Al-Saud. According to the Egyptian presidency, the two men discussed ways of achieving political solutions to a number of crises in the Middle East region.

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Khaled Fawzy, the head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Directorate, also attended the meeting.

On Sunday, El-Sisi also met with United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed for talks on regional issues and Egypt-UAE relations.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


While Halawa and 52 others were acquitted, 43 defendants were handed jail terms of 25 years on Monday for their part in bloody clashes with security forces in central Cairo in the summer of 2013

A Cairo criminal court has acquitted Egyptian-Irish dual citizen Ibrahim Halawa, 21, of all charges in the 2013 case dubbed by the media as the "Al-Fatah Mosque case".

However, in its ruling on Monday, the court sentenced 43 defendants to 25 years in jail in the same case, including 21 defendants sentenced in absentia.

Of the 492 defendants in the case, 52 were aquitted, while the rest were given jail sentences ranging from 15 to 5 years.

The case dates back to August 2013 when supporters of ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi clashed with security forces near Cairo's Al-Fatah Mosque, leaving 44 people dead, with many more injured, including 22 policemen, according to Egypt's interior ministry.

The charges brought against the defendants included attacking security forces, vandalizing public buildings, attempted murder and murder.

The defendants included leading Muslim Brotherhood figure Salah Soltan and two activists linked to the Muslim Brotherhood  Ahmed El-Mogheer and Abdel Rahman Ezz  who are now living abroad.

On Monday, the court also acquitted Ibrahim Halawa's sisters Samia and Fatma of charges in the same case. They were previously released pending investigations and left the country to Ireland in November 2013.

The government of Ireland has been demanding Ibrahim Halwa's release since 2013.

In addition to Halawa, one other Egyptian-US dual citizen, Ahmed Etiwy, faced trial in the case and was sentenced to five years in prison on Monday.

Senator John McCain listed Etiwy among 20 holders of dual US-Egyptian citizenship currently detained in Egypt pending trial. In a statement issued in August, McCain demanded that US President Donald Trump intervene to secure their release.

The court rulings issued on Monday were of the first degree and can be appealed.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


The co-founder of Al-Masry Al-Youm newspaper was arrested in 2015 alongside his son

A Giza criminal court has acquitted Salah Diab, a well-known businessman and the founder of Al-Masry Al-Youm newspaper, and his son Tawfik Diab, of charges of possessing unlicensed firearms.

In November 2015 Diab and his son were arrested at his villa in Giza after security forces searched his house with a warrant from the prosecution.

In the same month, Diab was released on a EGP 50,000 bail and his son on a EGP 10,000.

Diab had faced a similar case of possessing unlicensed weapons and illegal assembly that dated back to 2011. He was acquitted on those charges in 2016.

In 2004, the businessman co-founded Al-Masry Al-Youm newspaper, currently Egypt's most-popular privately owned daily.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mohamed Shaker spoke during his participation in the general meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna on Monday.

The minster said that the Egyptian nuclear programme is led and supervised by highly qualified and professional cadres.

In November 2015, Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi oversaw the signing of the deal between Egypt and Russia to establish the first Egyptian nuclear power plant.

Expected to be completed within 12 years, the Dabaa plant will be the largest Russian-Egyptian project since the Aswan Dam, the then-head of Rosatom said during the signing ceremony in 2015.

The plant will have a capacity of 4,800 megawatts.

Shaker said the ministry aims at diversifying electricity sources to include wind, solar, coal, nuclear, gas, and petroleum sources, to meet the increasing demand for electricity, which stood at 30,800 megawatts this summer.

The minster also affirmed that all technical, financial and legal aspects of the draft contracts, which include the supply of nuclear fuel, operation, maintenance and management of spent fuel have been finalised.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


The state of human rights in Egypt shouldn't be judged from a Western perspective, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi told a group of former US officials in New York on Monday.

Presidential spokesman Alaa Youssef said El-Sisi discussed human rights with the "influential American figures," stressing to them that Egypt is keen on respecting and boosting human rights.

"The perception of human rights should not be shorthanded to political rights only, but has to be dealt with through a comprehensive perspective that also includes societal and economic rights, like the right to education, health, housing and work," El-Sisi said according to his spokesman.

When asked about the conditions faced by NGOs in Egypt, El-Sisi said that such organisations are an important partner on Egypt's path to development," adding that the Egyptian parliament has approved a law that regulates their work "in light of fear within the society about the work conducted by such organisations in the past years."

According to El-Sisi's statements to the former US officials, the law has not been put yet in effect. He said that its bylaws are currently being prepared, so as to apply it in a way that ensures "no obstacles are placed in front of the civil society organisations work.''

Qatar, Palestine

The Egyptian president also tackled regional issues, including Palestine, Libya, Qatar, and Syria.

On Qatar, El-Sisi said "it was time that sides that support terrorism are held responsible," pointing at the Gulf country.

Egypt is among four countries, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and UAE, who cut ties with Qatar in June over Dohas alleged support of terrorist groups and its relationship with Iran.

"Qatar should show a willingness to not harm Arab countries' interests and not interfere in their domestic affairs through complying with the demands of the four boycotting countries," El-Sisi said.

El-Sisi also discussed efforts exerted by Egypt to revive the Palestinian peace process, highlighting Egypt's efforts with Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza to bridge views to accomplish Palestinian-Palestinian reconciliation.

The Egyptian president's statements on the issue come only one day after Hamas announced it had dissolved its administrative committee running Gaza, making way for the arrival of officials from the unity government, who would take control of the area.

The Hamas statement was issued from Gaza on Sunday following talks with Egyptian officials in Cairo last week.

Fatah, meanwhile, said on Sunday that it welcomed the pledge by its rival Hamas to accept key conditions for reconciliation.

Egypt has hailed the move.

El-Sisi also discussed the Palestinian-Israeli peace process, which has been witnessing a series of obstacles.

"Peace between Palestinians and Israelis can't be forced from abroad, it has to come through real certainty and will from both sides," El-Sisi said.

He said Egypt's vision was based on preserving the "national state and institutions so they can carry out their duties in maintaining security and combating terrorism," mentioning the unity of both Libyan and Syrian territories.

Monday marks the second day of El-Sisi's official visit to the US to participate in the 72nd United Nations General Assembly this week.

The president's schedule for the day included meetings with US businessmen and media interviews, according to a press release issued by the Egyptian president's office.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah is poised to visit Gaza for talks, a senior official said Monday, after Hamas agreed steps towards resolving a decade-long split with its West Bank-based rival Fatah.

Hamas announced Sunday it had agreed to demands by president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party to dissolve what is seen as a rival administration in Gaza, while saying it was ready for elections and negotiations towards forming a unity government.

Hamdallah plans to travel to Israeli-besieged Gaza City to meet Hamas officials and assert the government's control over ministries, Nabil Shaath, a senior advisor to Abbas, told journalists in the West Bank city of Ramallah, as a first step towards implementing a larger agreement.

"We await the first steps on the ground. We want to see Mr Hamdallah received by Hamas, the door to all the ministries open," he said. "That really could happen in the next 24 hours."

Abbas's internationally-recognised Palestinian Authority (PA) is located in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, but it has had no control in Gaza for a decade -- after the Islamist movement Hamas seized the territory in a near civil war in 2007.

Hamdallah has not visited the territory since 2015, and a previous attempt at a unity government fell apart that year, with the two sides exchanging blame.

In recent months Abbas has sought to squeeze Hamas by reducing power supply to the strip, with the two million residents receiving only three or four hours of mains electricity per day as a result.

He has also reduced the salaries of some employees in Gaza, while the number of Gazans receiving PA permits to travel for medical care has declined.

The Independent Commission for Human Rights, based in the West Bank, called Tuesday for such measures to be reversed after Hamas dissolved the so-called administrative committee, seen as a rival government and created in March.

Shaath said Abbas wanted to reverse the punitive measures, but he did not give a timetable.

"When the president supported these economic measures (against Gaza) he said they will stop immediately once the self-rule governance of Hamas ends and the consensus government takes place. He didn't put any other conditions whatsoever."

Abbas is due to address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, after meeting with US President Donald Trump.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


South Korea says the U.S. military has flown powerful bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula in joint drills with South Korean warplanes.

The United States often sends such high-tech, powerful aircraft in a show of force in times of heightened animosities with North Korea.

Monday's flyovers came three days after North Korea fired an intermediate-range missile over Japan into the northern Pacific Ocean in apparent defiance of U.S.-led international pressure on the country. The North conducted its sixth nuclear test on Sept. 3 and was subsequently hit with tough, fresh U.N. sanctions.

Seoul's Defense Ministry says two B-1Bs and four F-35Bs conducted drills with four South Korean F-15K fighter jets.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


N. KOTZIAS: Good afternoon. We had an interesting discussion with the Secretary-General of the UN, who again expressed his solidarity for the stance held by Greece on the immigration crisis. We discussed three issues.

The first pertains to UN reforms, where we fully endorse the UNSGs proposals. Additionally, I laid out our proposal for the creation of a global parliamentary body, which would make the UN more attractive and bring it closer to the everyday life of citizens. This is an issue that requires much work, but my impression is that it appeals to him, as well.

The second issue we discussed was fYROM. Mr. Nimetz, who met with Mr. Vasilakis in London the day before yesterday, was also present. As you are aware, our neighbouring country will be dealing, up until October, with issues related to local government elections. Afterwards, I believe that a window of opportunity will open for discussions on the name issue, provided irredentism is tackled.

Thirdly, we discussed the Cyprus issue. We expressed our willingness to continue in the same framework of talks we had at Crans-Montana, particularly on the proposals made by the Secretary-General at the end, with which we are in agreement. I have already pointed out the need to maintain the acquis of the sole UN document submitted on the final evening of negotiations. It concerns the context within which, decisions on the abolishment of the Treaty of Guarantees, the rights of intervention and so on, would be applied. As you are aware, this document was unfortunately not discussed that evening by any other side, other than myself and, in part, Cyprus. It was undermined, in a way, by the British side. Yet, it is a document that was placed on the table by the Secretary-General himself, constituting a good base upon which to continue our discussions.

JOURNALIST: Minister, President Erdogan, while defending his decision to purchase the S-400s and wishing to mitigate the impressions produced by the US and NATO, said in an interview that there was no reaction when Greece purchased the S-300swould you like to comment on this?

N. KOTZIAS: One must study history more carefully and draw any analogies more correctly. Unfortunately, I do not have time at the moment to shed light on historical issues, but we shall indeed do this at a later stage.

JOURNALIST: Minister, first of all, may I extend my welcome. As regards the issue of Cyprus, while there are pressing questions asked at the UN on what is likely to happen after the meeting at Crans-Montana, what is being reiterated on the part of the UN is reflection. How does the UN perceive, in your opinion, such reflection, considering Turkeys attitude, with violations(?)

N. KOTZIAS: We must retain two things. The first, is -what I consider a success for Greek diplomacy- that it has been accepted from the very beginning -I am referring to 2016- that these negotiations have no endpoint. It is an ongoing process, what we refer to as open ended. Therefore, we shall pick up from Geneva I and Crans-Montana, i.e. Geneva II, provided that all sides wish to do so. At the moment, one side does not seem willing to participate in a meaningful discussion, which it also avoided at Crans-Montana. I think that it is a responsibility for all of us to help; to contribute in solving the Cyprus issue, to the benefit of the entire population of Cyprus -the two communities and the three small minorities- and not to the benefit of a third country.Thank you.
China's Communist Party newspaper, the People's Daily, has criticized the United States for demanding that Beijing put more pressure on North Korea to rein in its weapons programs.

It said Beijing "will never accept the 'responsibility' imposed by the U.S."

China accounts for about 90 percent of North Korea's trade.

The newspaper also said sanctions should not interfere with legitimate trade between North Korea and the outside world, or harm everyday people. Sanctions are not "a tool for stifling the regime," it said.

Later, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told reporters that "some related parties"  a reference to the U.S. and North Korea  "keep sending threatening messages both in words and deeds that include warnings of military action."

"These kinds of actions don't help solve the problem but further complicate the situation," he said.

North Korea launched a missile over Japan on Friday as it protested against tough new U.N. sanctions over its sixth nuclear test on Sept. 3.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Here are five news stories and events to start your week, from the editors at Military.com:

US Flies Powerful Warplanes Amid Tensions with North Korea

Via Hyung-jin Kim at the Associated Press: "The U.S. military flew advanced bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula and near Japan in drills with South Korean and Japanese warplanes on Monday, three days after North Korea fired a missile over Japan. The United States often sends powerful military aircraft in a show of force in times of heightened animosities with North Korea. The North launched its latest missile as it protested against tough new U.N. sanctions over its sixth nuclear test on Sept. 3."

Army Test Report Buries Performance of Magpul PMAG

Via Matthew Cox at Military.com: "The U.S. Army 2015 test report on commercial rifle magazines appears to bury the findings that show that the Magpul PMAG polymer magazine outperformed government magazines and other magazine vendors in the evaluation, according to a copy of the document. U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center evaluated 10 commercial magazine designs and two government magazine designs for Product Manager Individual Weapons. Testers loaded the magazines into M4A1s, M16A4s, and Marine M27 Infantry Automatic Rifles and fired thousands of rounds during the evaluation."

SecNav to Testify Before Senators on Deadly Ship Collisions

Also Tuesday, Navy Secretary Richard Spencer is scheduled to appear 9:30 a.m. before the Senate Armed Services Committee to discuss the deadly collisions involving naval destroyers and commercial vessels in the Pacific. The panel is headed by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., who's battling an aggressive form of brain cancer and whose father and grandfather are the namesake for one of the ships, the USS John S. McCain. Spencer will testify alongside Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson and John Pendleton, director of defense force structure and readiness issues for the Government Accountability Office.

2 Big Military Expos This Week: AFA and Modern Day Marine

Today marks the start of the Air Force Association's biggest event of the year: the three-day Air, Space & Cyber Conference at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Md., outside Washington, D.C. Here's the agenda and here's Military.com's Oriana Pawlyk breakdown of what to expect. In an unusual overlap, tomorrow is the first day of the Marine Corps League's three-day Modern Day Marine expo in Quantico, Va. Both shows will feature panel discussions with service leaders and Pentagon officials, as well as exhibits from defense contractors. Military.com will provide wall-to-wall coverage of both shows.

'A Different Feeling': Navy Pilots Describe Shooting Down SU-22

Via Hope Hodge Seck at Military.com: "The day started out with a close-air support mission and ended with the first Navy air-to-air "kill" since 1991. Three months after an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the carrier George H.W. Bush shot down a Syrian Su-22 Fitter near Raqqa, Syria, on June 18, the four Navy pilots who participated in the mission offered a blow-by-blow account during a special panel at the Tailhook 2017 Symposium, held Sept. 7-10. In a recording first uncovered by The Drive on Thursday, the pilots describe an operating environment that had become more unpredictable and dynamic."

-- Brendan McGarry can be reached at brendan.mcgarry@military.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Brendan_McGarry.
More leaders are being removed from their posts as the Navy continues to investigate the cause of two deadly ship collisions in the Pacific this summer that resulted in the deaths of 17 sailors.

Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander of U.S. Seventh Fleet, on Monday relieved two senior officers: Rear Adm. Charles Williams, the commander of Task Force 70, and Capt. Jeffrey Bennett, commander of Destroyer Squadron 15. The officers were relieved due to a loss of confidence in their command, according to a brief announcement from U.S. 7th Fleet.

Rear Adm. Marc Dalton, currently commander of Task Force 76, will take command of Task Force 70, which oversees theater surface warfare and integrated air missile defense for 7th Fleet in the Pacific. Capt. Jonathan Duffy, deputy commander of DESRON 15 will take command of the squadron, officials said.

Related content:

Both destroyers involved in the recent collisions, the USS John S. McCain and the USS Fitzgerald, belonged to DESRON 15.

For Sawyer, the firings are effectively his first public act as commander of the 7th Fleet; on Aug. 23, he abruptly assumed the command after Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, the previous commander, was relieved from his post by Pacific Fleet Commander Adm. Scott Swift just days after the second deadly ship collision.

USNI News, which broke the news of the most recent officer firings early Monday morning, also reported that the commander of Naval Surface Forces, Vice Adm. Thomas Rowden, had recently requested retirement about two months earlier than planned amid the recent disasters, which appear to amount to a massive scandal and embarrassment for the Navy, as well as the most significant tragedy of its kind in decades.

A spokesman for Rowden did not immediately respond to a Military.com query.

A Sept. 7 hearing before panels of the House Armed Services Committee about the two ship collisions focused on troubling recent findings from the Government Accountability Office showing that forward-based ships in the 7th Fleet did not have adequate time for training, and that many were operating with expired certifications.

"I personally made the assumption, and I have made the assumption for many, many years that our forward-deployed Naval force in Japan was the most proficient, well-trained, most experienced force we had, because they're operating all the time.," Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Bill Moran told lawmakers during the hearing. "It was a wrong assumption, in hindsight."

The causes of the two ship collisions are still under investigation and are the subject of two separate additional reviews: one led by the head of Fleet Forces Command, Adm. Phil Davidson, that examines training for surface warfare officers and pre-deployment requirements and training; and another led by Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer using outside experts to assess opportunities for institutional change in the Navy.

Spencer and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson are set to appear Tuesday before the Senate Armed Services Committee to discuss the recent disasters.

-- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck.
How is the Air Force dealing with a chronic shortage of pilots? Will the service buy a new light-attack aircraft? How are leaders responding to global threats from insurgent attacks in Afghanistan to ballistic missiles in North Korea?

No doubt these are topics of concern for airmen and the public writ large, and officials are expected to weigh in on them and others at this year's Air, Space and Cyber Conference, which kicks off Monday at National Harbor, Md., outside Washington, D.C.

This marks the first such conference for Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, who was tapped by President Donald Trump for the top position in January and confirmed by the Senate in May. She takes the helm at a time when the force is stressed by missions around the world, as well as domestic challenges from a dearth of pilots to deadly training accidents.

In recent weeks, Wilson and Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein have sought to raise attention to the harmful effects of a continued resolution and budget caps, the importance of streamlining the acquisition process and finding new ways of doing business, and the wide-ranging impact of a force whose missions range from providing relief in the wake of deadly hurricanes in the U.S. to bombing targets in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.

Here's a look at what's to come at this year's show, which is organized by the Air Force Association, an advocacy group based in Arlington, Va.:

Aircraft Announcement?

Last year, leaders unveiled the name of the B-21 Long Range Strike Bomber, or LRS-B, as the "Raider" in honor of the World War II-era Doolittle Raiders who led the morale-boosting bombing raid on Tokyo. (Officials have since been relatively tight-lipped about the stealth bomber program).

While defense hawks in Congress have implored the Air Force to publicize its equipment needs, the service has yet to detail exactly big of a fleet it needs. If officials have reached a definitive number of how many fighters should fill the flightlines, perhaps the they will announce it at this year's show.

Here are some other aircraft programs worth paying attention to:

JSTARS: While the Air Force plans to continue flying the current fleet of Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System fleet through fiscal 2023, it's "weighing its options," officials have said. Georgia Sens. Johnny Isakson and David Perdue have warned the service may scrap the E-8, which is designed to track moving targets on the ground. If the Air Force were to pursue another platform to replace JSTARS, it remains unclear whether doing so would create capability gap on the battlefield.

F-15 Eagle: The Air Force is mulling the idea of retiring the F-15C/D Eagle sometime in the 2020s. The chief recently said a formal decision will be made once officials finalize numbers from future budget plans.

OA-X: The service probably won't make a quick decision on the light attack OA-X plane. Goldfein recently told Military.com results from the fly off at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico aren't complete. The so-called experiment involves four commercial aircraft -- AirTractor and L3's AT-802L Longsword; Sierra Nevada and Embraer's A-29 Super Tucano; and Textron and AirLand LLC's Scorpion, as well as their AT-6B Wolverine -- conducting live-fly exercises, combat maneuver scenarios and weapons drops.

F-35: The contract for the next (11th) batch of F-35 Lightning IIs is still weeks away. Vice Adm. Mat Winter, the new head of the F-35's Joint Program Office at the Pentagon, recently said the contract with plane-maker Lockheed Martin Corp. could come as soon as October.

Top Brass

While Wilson is making her first appearance as the Air Force secretary at this year's conference, Goldfein has service as the service's top uniformed officer for a year.

The first service secretary to be confirmed in the Trump administration, Wilson has already traveled to various bases in the U.S. and more recently to the Middle East to hear directly from airmen on any number of issues affecting the force.

Wilson and Goldfein are scheduled to make multiple appearances during the conference. The secretary will give a "State of the Air Force" speech at 10:30 a.m. Monday. The chief will join her and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright -- and their spouses -- for a panel, "Air Force Town Hall," later in the day at 1 p.m.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, meanwhile, a former Marine general, is set to deliver the keynote speech on 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.

North Korea, Russia

On Tuesday and Wednesday, panels or speeches will center around nuclear deterrence. The Pentagon is grappling with how best to deal with North Korea, which this month alone launched its second ballistic missile over Japan and detonated what it claimed was a hydrogen bomb in its biggest nuclear test to date.

Lt. Gen. Jack Weinstein, deputy chief of staff for Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration at the Pentagon, as well as Gen. John E. Hyten, Commander of U.S. Strategic Command, are scheduled to speak 1:15 p.m. Tuesday.

Titled, "Basing for Attack, Where Do We Go?" Gen. Terrence O'Shaughnessy, commander, Pacific Air Forces and the air component commander for U.S. Pacific Command is on the list to speak alongside Gen Tod Wolters, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday. Topics to be discussed include Russia's latest buildup of forces for its Zapad 17 exercises, and more of North Korea.

Networked Aircraft

The F-35 and F-22 Raptor don't share data well. What's more, in some cases, these planes can't "talk" to fourth-generation fighters like the F-15 Eagle or F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Watch for Goldfein and other leaders to talk about the push to build an integrated network of "air, space, and cyberspace-based sensors, as well as leverage joint contributions from all domains," as detailed in the Air Superiority 2030 Flight Plan.

Military.com recently asked Goldfein: How did the Air Force get to this point -- where systems can't talk to one another? How does it plan to fix it?

"I look at it more [like] an evolution," he said during an interview last week. "We're coming out of an era where [the question] we ask industry is, 'What does it do?' We're entering into an era where we're asking, 'Does it connect? And does it share?' That's a fundamentally different way to inquire."

Goldfein said part of the problem is how the Air Force buys information technology -- like it's a product or thing. "It's not thing, it's a journey. And once you start that journey you better stay ahead of the adversary," he said.

The chief said he never wants to see the terms "IT" (information technology) and "RFP" (request for proposal) in the same sentence because that means "you're already working too slow" to build the network into a platform that should already be connected.

But that doesn't necessarily mean a common information operating system or open architecture. Goldfein said it has to start with adopting a common standard of buying -- for everything, not just planes.

"We have to say, 'Look, if you want me to be interested as the chief in procuring a weapons system, my first question is going to be, 'Does it connect?' Next, 'Does it share?' And if the answers to those two questions are 'Yes' and 'Yes,' you've got my interest," he said.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. -- The airspace over Syria in some ways has become as "contested" and "congested" as the war on the ground, posing special challenges for U.S. pilots, Air Force Lt. Gen. Jeff Harrigian said Monday.

U.S. troops in their train-and-advise mission with the U.S.-partnered Syrian Democratic Forces have had to carry out missions against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria while steering clear of conflict with forces of the Russian-backed Syrian regime and a host of factions involved in the civil war.

"The same thing is happening in the air," Harrigian, commander of U.S. Air Forces Central Command, said at the Air Force Association's Air, Space and Cyber Conference.

Unlike Iraq and Afghanistan, "where we've owned the airspace," the air war in Syria involves "multiple players," he said.

Factions under the flags of varying nations are flying unmanned aerial vehicles, while Russian and Syrian fighters and bombers operate freely -- unless they are seen as a threat to U.S. and partnered forces.

Harrigian said he has constantly tried to get across that last point to the Russians, and have them convey the U.S.' resolve to the Syrians.

He showed a slide of the phone he uses to "deconflict" with Russian forces -- marked in white tape with large letters saying "RUS-ACO [Air Combat Operations]."

U.S. pilots also have to be constantly alert to the fact they are often flying in areas protected by sophisticated Russian and Syrian air defenses, Harrigian said.

The challenges for U.S. airmen became more acute after President Donald Trump last April authorized Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) strikes against a Syrian air base in response to chemical attacks on civilians by Syrian warplanes.

U.S. warplanes were in the air "before, during and after" the Tomahawk strikes "in case the Syrians or the Russians made a run at us" and tried to attack U.S. troops on the ground, Harrigian said.

He wouldn't go into specifics on the rules of engagement, but suggested that pilots now have more discretion in responding to perceived threats since the TLAM strikes.

"Too much was being directed from the CAOC [Combined Air Operations Center]," Harrigian said.

He cited the June 18 incident in which a Navy FA-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 warplane that had bombed positions of the Syrian Democratic Forces, wounding several fighters.

Then on June 20, an Air Force F-15E Eagle shot down an armed drone believed to be under the control of an Iranian faction that was headed toward positions of the SDF and their U.S. advisers, Harrigian said.

The Russians also occasionally make dangerously close passes to U.S. aircraft, he said, adding it tends to happen with less experienced Russian pilots.

"As they rotate in forces, they typically change behavior," and the newer pilots become more aggressive, Harrigian said. "I remind them [the Russians] that we will always be in a position to defend ourselves."

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
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...
Military families have a long checklist of things to do when going through a PCS move. One of those tasks is vehicle registration.

Rules and fees for vehicle registration vary by state. Some states dont require vehicle registration if youre on military orders, in some states military members are exempt from registration fees, and some states offer special consideration to veterans, such as discounts on registration or license plates.

A quick note before you register your vehicle in your new state. Most states require insurance and many will require proof of insurance before you even register your vehicle. If you've moved, your insurance rates will change and your carrier may not offer coverage in your new state. Use our handy rate tool to find carriers and compare rates in your area for military auto insurance.

Alabama

Military members stationed in Alabama but who aren't residents of Alabama don't have to register their vehicles with the Alabama Motor Vehicles Division as long as they have a current registration in their home state and valid insurance. Military members who are Alabama residents have the same registration process as civilians.

Click here to learn more about the Alabama registration process.

Alaska

As a non-resident you are not required to transfer your title or registration to Alaska. You may retain the registration in the state you are a resident of, according to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

If you are an Alaskan resident military member stationed outside Alaska, you can renew your vehicle registration in Alaska by mail. Your LES must show Alaska as your home of record.

Click here for details.

Arizona

Active-duty military personnel stationed in Arizona who are not Arizona residents are exempt from paying the vehicle license tax portion of the annual vehicle registration.

When the nonresident service member is assigned overseas and the spouse or dependent must remain in Arizona, the exemption still applies if the nonresident service person was on military assignment in Arizona at the time the overseas orders were issued.

Arizona residents who are stationed out-of-state can renew their license online or by mail.

Residents can get a one year Special Military Exemption from the payment of vehicle license tax and registration fees. It is available one time per deployment and may be applied for during the time period between the date of deployment until one year after the deployment ends or the member is released from duty. This exemption applies to no more than two vehicles, and each vehicle requires a separate form.

Click here to learn more about registration.

Arkansas

If Arkansas is not your home of record you are exempt from assessment and personal property taxes. You must provide a copy of your leave and earnings statement for verification of your home of record and, therefore, cannot renew by phone or internet.

For military personnel whose home of record is Arkansas, the requirements are the same as for an Arkansas resident, regardless of where you are stationed.

Click here for more details.

California

If you are a nonresident member of the military stationed in California, you can drive a vehicle as long as your out-of-state license remains valid and you're insured.

As a California resident, you're eligible for a waiver of the late fee if you're deployed and your registration expires. (Training doesn't count.)

Click here for more info.

Colorado

If you are stationed in Colorado but a resident of another state, you can register your vehicle without paying ownership tax by completing this Nonresidence and Military Service Exemption From Specific Ownership Tax Affidavit (Form DR 2667) and taking it to your county title and registration office.

If you are a Colorado resident stationed out-of-state you may apply for an extension for up to three years by mail. If you have a CDL your license is automatically extended for up to 3 years per Colorado Revised Statute 42-2-118(2) as long as a military ID or military orders are presented with the license.

Delaware

To renew a vehicle registration when stationed outside of Delaware, you need to contact the states Registration Correspondence Section for an Out-of-State Inspection Packet to be mailed to you provided you are outside a 250 mile radius of a DMV location in Delaware. The packet consists of a safety inspection checklist and an emission test requirements.

You can renew your license through the mail if stationed out-of-state.

Click here for more information.

Florida

Military members who are both Florida residents and non-residents and are stationed in Florida on military orders are exempt from the $225 initial registration fee on a motor vehicle.

Click here for the exemption application.

Georgia

To learn about vehicle registration in Georgia, click here.

Hawaii

You can either keep your home states registration or switch to Hawaiis registration. If you choose to stay with your home state, you will be exempt from the annual weight tax and any excise taxes in Hawaii, but youll need to have a vehicle safety inspection.

Click here for more information.

Idaho

There are no provisions in Idaho statute allowing the extension of vehicle registrations for military personnel, so check the expiration date of your vehicles before you deploy or move out of state. You can renew Idaho vehicle registrations from overseas or out of state online.

Click here for more information.

Illinois

Military members on active duty outside Illinois, as well as their spouses and children, may drive with an expired license for up to 120 days after their return to the state. A Military Deferral Certificate(s) must be carried with your expired Illinois driver's license. Certificates are available at no charge and may be mailed to your out-of-state address.

Vehicle registrations can be renewed online.

Click here for more information.

Indiana

Indiana law provides that the drivers license of any Indiana resident in the military or their dependents remains valid for ninety days after discharge or post-deployment regardless of the expiration date of the license. You may renew your driver's license online if your name and residential address have remained the same since the last time you received a license and your last renewal was in a BMV license branch and you do not have a J restriction or any 2-9 restrictions.

If you are a member of the military from another state who is stationed in Indiana, you may renew your vehicle registrations in Indiana.

Click here for details.

Iowa

Iowa residents in the military must pay the same registration fees that apply to other residents when registering a vehicle in this state. A nonresident member of the military is not required to register a vehicle in Iowa, providing the vehicle is properly registered in the state of residency. A nonresident can register a vehicle in Iowa, if desired, in the same manner as any nonresident.

For more information, click here.

Kansas

Service members stationed outside of Kansas can renew vehicle registration online.

Click here for more information.

Kentucky

You can renew your vehicle registration through the mail with your resident County Clerk's office or online.

Click here for more information.

Louisiana

Service members registering vehicles in Louisiana, follow the same registration process as permanent residents.

Click here to register.

Maine

You can renew your registration and license online. You may be eligible for a waiver of the state excise tax if you are a non-resident stationed in Maine.

Click here for more information.

Maryland

If youre a service member not establishing residency because you are only temporarily stationed in Maryland, you do not need to register your vehicle if it is currently registered in your state of residence If you are establishing residency in Maryland you must title and register your vehicle within one year of moving to Maryland.

Maryland residents who buy a used vehicle while stationed outside of Maryland can complete a form to temporarily register their vehicle in Maryland without the safety Inspection. The vehicle must be immediately inspected upon return to Maryland. The military personnel inspection waiver is valid for two years and may be renewed if necessary (if still stationed out-of-state).

Click here for more information.

Massachusetts

If your vehicle was purchased, titled, and registered in your home state, you may retain your home state registration indefinitely, regardless of where you are stationed in the country. The only requirement is that you carry insurance at least equal to Massachusetts minimum levels.

Click here for details.

Michigan

To apply for a vehicle title and registration in Michigan, an Application for Certificate of Title and Registration must be completed and submitted to the state with payment via mail.

Click here for the information youll need.

Minnesota

If youre a non-resident student or member of the military located in Minnesota but claim residency in another state, you do not have to register your car as long as your registration remains current with your home state.

Minnesota residents who are active duty military members stationed out-of-state or overseas are exempt from registration tax during your duration of military service, and for 1 year after you complete your military obligation. You must be the vehicles owner or co-owner, and your car must remain registered in Minnesota during your active service.

Click here for details.

Mississippi

Military personnel who are stationed in Mississippi, but claim another state as their home, are not required to obtain a Mississippi registration or tag. Military personnel who are residents of Mississippi are required to register their vehicle in Mississippi.

Click here to learn more.

Missouri

For military personnel stationed out of state, you must submit certain documents to register your vehicle, including the Certificate of Title, signed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108), your LES and more.

Click here for full instructions.

Montana

A Montana resident who entered active military duty from Montana, including a National Guard or Reserve member, and who is stationed outside Montana, may register a motor vehicle that he or she owns and operates without paying certain light vehicle registration fees.

Click here for the application.

Nebraska

Military personnel stationed at a military base or any one of the various recruiting services in Nebraska and who have not established legal residence in Nebraska, may continue to operate their vehicles with current out-of-state license plates or may obtain current Nebraska license plates.

Click here to learn more.

Nevada

Out-of-state residents on active duty are not required to register their vehicles in Nevada. Spouses are also exempt if the spouse lives in Nevada solely to be with the service member. Service members and spouses who choose to obtain a Nevada registration are eligible for an exemption from the Nevada Governmental Services Taxes on vehicles.

The DMV will waive registration late fees for active duty military members assigned to combat or combat support positions.

Click here for more information and required documents.

New Hampshire

Regardless of where youre stationed, residents of New Hampshire need to register vehicles every year.

Click here to find out how to register your vehicle.

New Jersey

If you are on active military duty and have been deployed, including New Jersey National Guard and Reserve, you and your immediate family are entitled to automatic extensions for your driver license, registration and inspection requirements. If you enter or are an active member of the U.S. Armed Forces and have a valid New Jersey registration, you can get a refund for the remainder of the registration period.

Click here for details.

New Mexico

Nonresident service members stationed in New Mexico can drive vehicles with the plates of your home state or switch registration to New Mexico.

Click here to renew registration online.

New York

If you are not able to visit the DMV to register a vehicle, another person can come for you with certain forms. The state of New York also offers a sales tax exemption for vehicles purchased out-of-state by service members. Click here for details and necessary forms.

If your New York registration expires while on active duty, registrations can be extended for up to 60 days from return to New York State. Liability insurance coverage must be maintained at all times, including the period of extension. Click here for more information.

North Carolina

When registering your vehicle in the state of North Carolina, you must have certain documents and completed forms.

Click here for everything youll need.

North Dakota

If youre in the military assigned to North Dakota, you must complete certain forms and out-of-state title must be submitted with completed application.

Click here to learn more.

Ohio

Ohio military residents who are currently in state should follow the normal in-state vehicle registration. Non-resident military service members stationed in Ohio are not required to register their vehicles in the state.

Click here to learn how to register your vehicle.

Oklahoma

Active duty military personnel who are either residents of, or stationed in, Oklahoma are entitled to a discounted annual registration fee.

Click here for information and necessary paperwork.

Oregon

If youre a resident of Oregon, register your vehicle in the state of Oregon. If you are in the military, you may provide a copy of your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) showing Oregon as your home of record. You must still provide your actual residence address, even if it is in another state.

Click here to learn more.

Pennsylvania

A service member can maintain Pennsylvania vehicle registration or can title and register the vehicle in the jurisdiction in which he/she is stationed. If your vehicle is registered in Pennsylvania, you must renew the registration annually.

Click here for more information.

Rhode Island

If you are in the military in Rhode Island, you are required to renew your registration before it expires, even if you are out-of-state at the time.

Click here to learn how to renew registration.

South Carolina

If youre a service member stationed in South Carolina, register your vehicle or renew your registration as normal.

Click here for details and learn how to renew your registration.

South Dakota

Service member stationed out of state can renew vehicle registration online or by mail.

Click here for information on registration.

Tennessee

You can title, register, and transfer and renew registrations of their vehicles in the county where they are based. All transactions are done through the local county clerk. If Tennessee is listed as your home of record but you have no physical presence in the state, you can submit your application to any county clerk office.

Click here for complete instructions.

Texas

If you are in the military on active duty outside of the state, your Texas driver's license will remain valid unless your license has been suspended, canceled, or revoked. Once you are honorably discharged you will be given an extension of 90 days from the date of your discharge or your return to the state. Your driver's license will be expired after the extension.

If you wish to avoid having to renew your driver's license when you return, you may renew by mail.

Click here for more information.

Utah

Active-duty military personnel whose legal residence is in another state are permitted to register their motor vehicles in their state of legal residence. Non-resident military personnel who purchase a vehicle in Utah must pay the sales/use tax on the vehicle if they plan to operate the vehicle in Utah; sales tax is due even if they choose to register the vehicle in their home state.

Utah residents who are members of the U.S. Armed Services and are stationed out of state may obtain property tax exemption, emissions inspection exemption and safety inspection exemption.

Click here for details.

Vermont

For information on renewing registration in Vermont, click here.

Virginia

While stationed in Virginia, if you purchase a vehicle, you can register that vehicle in your home state or in Virginia. Vehicles titled and registered in your name may be driven with valid out-of-state license plates.

Members of the military may request an extension of their Virginia drivers license. Note: Commercial drivers licenses are not eligible for extensions.

Click here for more information.

Washington

Nonresident military personnel on duty in Washington may keep their current state registration or get Washington plates.

Washington residents stationed out-of-state can renew their registration online.

Click here for more information.

Washington DC

District law requires that all vehicles housed and operated in the District of Columbia must be registered in the District unless the owner displays a reciprocity sticker issued by DC DMV.

For more information on how to get this sticker click here.

West Virginia

To renew your registration while you're stationed out of state, you can renew online with all required information on your insurance, personal property taxes, and a valid credit card for payment.

Click here for details.

Wisconsin

Vehicle registration renewals may be completed by the military member, a relative or a friend. Options for renewing include on-line, mail and in-person.

Upon entering the military, a member may request a refund of the unused portion of a registration fee. A military member on active duty may receive credit for periods of non-operation of less than twelve months.

Click here to learn more.

Wyoming

Click here for information on Wyoming licensing and vehicle registration.

Keep Up with the Ins and Outs of Military Life

For the latest military news and tips on military family benefits and more, subscribe to Military.com and have the information you need delivered directly to your inbox.
If you think about it, there is not a better time to build a new morning fitness habit than right now with the end of...
Cognition Brewing Company in Ishpeming learned their fate today from the 96th District Court in Marquette after a months long dispute with their landlord over payment disputes and lease breaches. Cognition was found to not be in violation of their lease, and to have made every required payment to their landlord.

The written judgement from Honorable Karl Weber was to be released this afternoon, and was available at publication time.

Head brewer Brian Richards said in a video that he posted on Facebook that "we got the ruling that we felt we should have got in every sense."

Cognition Brewing opened in April 2015 in the downstairs of the historic Mather Inn, in a space that they rent. Over the two years that they've been opened, discrepancies in money owed to both sides developed.

Various amounts were disputed to be owed by both sides over the last few months. In July, Mather Inn owners Theresa and Robin Baird claimed that Cognition owed them $55,998.57 in rent, interest and late fees in Cognition owner Jay Clancey, who also owns Clancey Electric, claimed that the Inn owed him around $4,000 for electrical work that he did to the building.

The dispute reached a crescendo in February of this year when the Mather Inn owners changed the locks on the door and plowed tons of snow up to the entrance to block any entry to the brewery, for either patrons or employees.

Don't Edit

UPDATE: Snow removal is underway at Cognition Brewing Company.Tune into your TV6 & FOX UP newscasts for the latest! Posted by TV6 & FOX UP on Friday, February 10, 2017

There was seriously a ton of snow blocking Cognition.

Don't Edit

Amy Sherman | asherma2@mlive.com

The owners of the Inn regretted this move, but felt that they were being ignored by Clancey, and needed to do something to get his attention. While illegal to block the entrance, as it violates tenant lock-out laws, it did close the brewery for 10 days this winter, and caused the two sides to head to court. It also caused quite a stir in the little town of Ishpeming, where Cognition is a popular place to gather.

Over the last few months, they've been in and out of court. Testimonies from a variety of people including accountants, contractors and the owners broke down lease agreements, electric, utility bills and check payments. On August 10, the bench trial concluded, with a decision to be released on September 18.

Don't Edit

Amy Sherman | asherma2@mlive.com

During our search for Michigan's Best new brewery in 2016, we picked Cognition to be in our top ten. We loved the community feel to the brewery, and the interesting historic setting. The beers here are changing local's tastebuds one pint at a time. Clancey told us "Now people want to know what's new, what's different when they come in."

Ishpeming should be pretty happy to hear that this local favorite will remain open and brewing up some great beers. After months of uncertainty, Cognition is happy to know that they can continue operating in their space. Head brewer Brian Richards said "We're brewing beer still. In fact, brewing tomorrow. It'll be a pretty glorious brew day."

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit
Fermenta, a non-profit group started by Michigan women in the craft beverage industry, is about to celebrate it's third anniversary with not only a party, but also a fundraiser for their scholarship program.

The organization is "committed to diversity, camaraderie, networking, and education within the craft beverage industry." Geared towards women, but not exclusive to, the group works through education and networking to try and diversify what has traditionally been a male dominated field.

Pauline Knighton, one of the original founders of Fermenta, said "There are more women becoming professionals in the craft beverage industry. All facets of the industry are diversifying. There is still a lot of room for growth, but we are moving forward."

The anniversary party is being held on September 23 from noon to 4pm at Old Nation Brewing in Williamston.

This year, Lucy Saunders, a beer, food blogger and author of "The Best of American

Beer and Food" cookbook will be the keynote speaker. She'll be discussing beer and food pairings, and will be bringing some cheeses from Wisconsin to try with Old Nation beers.

There will also be a silent auction to raise money for Fermenta's scholarship fund which allows members to attend workshops, classes, and seminars to further their

knowledge in the craft beverage industry.

"From day one, the founders of Fermenta wanted to have education as the foundation of our non-profit. It was, and is, important to us to offer educational opportunities to both the public and to our members. Continued educations and professional development will strengthen the Michigan craft beverage industry, and ensure we are prosperous as the market continues to develop and change," Knighton explained.

Everyone is welcome to attend the event, and not only enjoy some great beer, but also to learn more about the craft beverage industry and Fermenta's mission.

Knighton said "The founders of our group were personally passionate about continuing to educate ourselves about all things fermentation. We felt there was room for a group in the craft beverage industry that was built on educational gatherings, that also have networking and social benefits too."

IF YOU GO:

Fermenta Third Anniversary Party

Old Nation Brewery

(517) 655-1301

Order tickets online here: $15/members & $20/non-members

Also available at the door: $20/ members & $25/non-members

Other Michigan beer news:
ANN ARBOR, MI - With clearance from the Federal Railroad Administration, the city of Ann Arbor has released a long-awaited report examining options for a new Amtrak station.

The report identifies Fuller Park as the preferred location for a new train station and related facilities, including parking.

The 212-page draft environmental assessment report was made public and posted to the city's website Monday afternoon, Sept. 18, after several months of private discussions between the city and FRA.

Public comments are now being accepted through Nov. 2.

The city has been exploring options for a new Amtrak train station to replace the one on Depot Street for more than a decade, and the city has been working with the Michigan Department of Transportation and FRA to determine the best location.

Options seriously considered over the last few years have included Depot Street, where the existing Amtrak station and the community's historic depot building are both located, and along Fuller Road in part of Fuller Park in front of the University of Michigan Hospital.

The city historically has favored the Fuller Park location, while the FRA asked the city to further explore and analyze Depot Street options, including possibly returning the historic depot building that now houses the Gandy Dancer restaurant to use as the city's train station.

But now the city and FRA, along with MDOT, have reached consensus on "Build Alternative 3A" being the preferred option.

It includes constructing a station elevated above the tracks that run past Fuller Park on the south side of Fuller Road, where there's currently a city-owned parking lot leased to the university. It's described as a two-phase project in the new report.

The preferred option for a new Amtrak station in Ann Arbor included in an environmental assessment report publicly released by the city on Sept. 18, 2017.

Phase I includes:

Construct station above the tracks

Construct five-level intermodal operations and parking structure to accommodate transit operations, 435 long-term parking spaces, 50 short-term parking spaces, 150 parks user parking spaces and motorcycle parking, bicycle parking, shared bicycle service and bicycle room in parking structure

Construct vertical circulation element on north side of the tracks

Construct platform on the north side of the tracks with two warming shelters and 650 feet of canopy

Construct new 250-foot, eastbound, right-turn lane at the Fuller Road/West Site driveway intersection

Construct new 250-foot, eastbound, right-turn lane at the Fuller Road/East Site driveway intersection

Relocate and reconstruct the Fuller Road crossovers, including 250 foot, left-turn bays at each crossover

Construct four bus bays

Phase II includes:

Construct additional parking structure levels to accommodate 870 total long-term parking spaces, 50 short-term spaces, 150 parks user parking spaces

Construct five additional bus bays to equal nine bus bays

If commuter rail is implemented:

Construct second 800-foot platform on south side of the tracks with two warming shelters and 650 feet of canopy

Construct vertical circulation elements (elevators and stairs for pedestrians) on south side of the tracks

Construct an additional 250 spaces (1,320 total)

The various options for a new station were evaluated based on potential impacts on the natural, human and physical environments, constructibility, cost, and the potential to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts to resources, giving consideration to economic, environmental, technical and other factors.

"As addressed in Section 3, Build Alternative 3A can be developed on property currently owned by the City of Ann Arbor and MDOT; thereby eliminating the need for additional property acquisitions as well as maintaining the taxable base in the area," the report states.

"Existing surface transportation network capacity immediately adjacent to this location can accommodate projected additional trips utilizing Build Alternative 3A. Build Alternative 3A currently provides connections to 9 transit routes (AAATA - 2 and U-M - 7). This location is outside of the floodplain and therefore no impacts will occur to the floodplain or any designated floodways."

The report acknowledges the preferred option will require use of 3.2 acres of Fuller Park and will require review and comment by Ann Arbor's Park Advisory Commission and City Council approval.

"In addition, there are no floodplain or floodway impacts associated with Alternative 3A, and with the smallest development area it results in the lowest increase in impervious surfaces," the report states.

Because it would be constructed on city-owned property, the Fuller Park station has the lowest construction cost among the alternatives, the report states, citing an estimated cost of $81 million.

Cost estimates for Depot Street options range from $94 million to $98 million, citing a need to widen the Broadway Street bridges and acquire property -- 2.5 acres from Amtrak and 2.6 acres from DTE Energy -- if the station and parking deck were to go there.

In addition to the digital copy posted online, a physical copy of the new report will be available for review starting Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the city clerk's office inside city hall, 301 E. Huron St., and at the reference desk at the downtown library, 343 S. Fifth Ave.

Written public comments on the report must be submitted to the city by 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2.

Comments can be submitted via email to project manager Eli Cooper at ecooper@a2gov.org or by mail to:



Eli Cooper

Systems Planning, fourth floor

City of Ann Arbor

P.O. Box 8647

Ann Arbor, MI 48107

The city is planning to hold meetings of the citizen advisory and leadership advisory groups for the Ann Arbor Station project, as well as for the general public, in early to mid-October. Dates and times will be published on the city website, as well as social media.

At a City Council work session last week, the city's administration cited an estimated cost of $80 million for a new Amtrak station and related parking deck, with the assumption that 80 percent would come from the federal government, with a $16 million local match.

That's a much higher estimate than before, which prompted one council member to question the higher cost.

The city's capital improvement plan in the past has included an estimated cost of $65 million for the train station and related parking deck construction, plus another $2.6 million for final design.

The city has been trying to get through the environmental assessment phase so it can move forward on preliminary engineering designs, drawing up more detailed plans for the preferred site.

Once there's a design and a chosen site, the city plans to let voters decide whether construction should proceed.

A citizens group called Protect A2 Parks, which created the website AllAboardOnDepotStreet.com, has lobbied for a station on Depot Street instead of Fuller Park, arguing it's a better location. Among the group's concerns is the impact on Fuller Park.



"FRA's preliminary determination is that Alternative 3A would result in a de minimis impact to Fuller Park," the new report states.
ANN ARBOR, MI - Hundreds gathered at Gallup Park for the grand opening of the Rotary Centennial Playground on Sunday, September 17, 2017.

The park is a universal access park, meaning people of all ages and abilities will be able to access the $1.1 million addition to Gallup Park along the Huron River.

The Rotary Club of Ann Arbor donated $550,000 to the city as part of the group's service centennial.

"This is an incredible addition to the offerings we have in Ann Arbor," said Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor.

"It is fundamental to Ann Arbor's values to include everyone and having a universal access park is a very important step forward. And we are very delighted and proud that it's here and thankful to all of the people in the community and outside who have made it happen."

"It's for the child and for the caregiver too, or the parent, so everyone can be involved in every aspect of it. I hope it continues to be a place where people can come together and enjoy together and to grow and play," said Colin Smith, Parks and Recreation Director.

The opening of the park featured a fishing area for kids, live music, food vendors, educational programming from the Leslie Science and Nature Center and a ribbon cutting.

"It is for people of all abilities and all ages. It's not just for kids. It's not just for disabled people. It's not just for disabled kids. It is for people of all abilities and all ages to play together," said Collyer Smith, President of the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor.
ANN ARBOR, MI - Black students from the University of Michigan were the target of a racist incident in which the name tags on their West Quad dorm doors were defaced with derogatory language on Sunday, Sept. 17.

UM's Black Student Union reported the incident Sunday via Twitter, later issuing a statement that the BSU "stand in solidarity with the three Black students who were directly targeted by this heinous offense."

According to the Michigan Daily, the three Black students were in the Michigan Community Scholars Program, located in West Quad Residence Hall. The hate speech, including "N-----," was written underneath their name tags placed on their dorm room doors.

"On September 17th, 2017, three Black University of Michigan students were targeted with racially derogatory language in the form of defaced name tags on their dorm doors," the BSU statement said. "This is not only a crime of vandalism, but also a hate crime carried out by those with access to our campus and residence halls, presumably underclassmen students. As we move into the third week of classes we have already encountered deliberate racism via social media and now directly to students in their campus homes, a space where they should feel safe.

"We, The Black Student Union, stand in solidarity with the three Black students who were directly targeted by this heinous offense. As an organization, our mission is to promote the social and spiritual growth and safety of those affected by crimes such as this."

The BSU said it expected an appropriate response from the university, including an investigation regarding the incident.

"In times like these, it is important that we do not act solely out of the frustration, anger, and sadness we may be feeling," the statement said. "We have to channel these emotions into productive action, in an attempt to leave the campus better than we found it. That being said, the Black Student Union will remain a resource to all Black Students on campus and will always act with the community and not just for the community. We are strategizing ways to move forward and urge everyone to come together right now and, above all else, practice self care."

Found in West Quad residence hall on the doors of two black students: pic.twitter.com/Nmz5zqWaVl  #BBUM (@THEBSU) September 17, 2017

UM's Division of Public Safety and Security responded that it was investigating the incident and would increase patrols at West Quad.

DPSS is investigating and will be increasing patrols at West Quad. https://t.co/Mfptq7us3a  U-M DPSS (@umichdpss) September 17, 2017

UM President Mark Schlissel also responded that racism has no place at the unviersity via social media Sunday.

Racism has no place @UMich. @UMichDPSS is investigating. I urge @UMichStudents to stand strong, support one another & report. https://t.co/Fh2gGAeDET  Dr. Mark Schlissel (@DrMarkSchlissel) September 17, 2017

Last fall, students responded to incidents where racist flyers were left in buildings on campus.

The flyers found on Sept. 26, 2016, in Haven and Mason halls espoused a "racist point of view." Student responded with protests on campus, while the university shared numerous responses throughout the year that it stood by students impacted by the flyers.
EAST LANSING, MI - Mona Bandyopadhyay, 19, of Saline, and Maria Pulice, 20, of Ann Arbor, were part of a small team that volunteered at a dog shelter and elephant sanctuary in Thailand this past summer.

The two-week trip was organized through study-abroad organization Loop Abroad, and the veterinary students gained hands-on experience caring for animals alongside veterinarians from the U.S. and Thailand.

Bandyopadhyay and Pulice both are juniors at Michigan State University, majoring in animal science.

"Our students are some of the most amazing people I have ever met," said Jane Stine, the program's managing director, in a press release. "They are kind, compassionate, dedicated, hard-working individuals who have big goals and want to make a big impact. It's amazing to see how eager they are to learn and challenge themselves. Over the last eight years, we've seen them go on to do some wonderful things."

For one week, the group volunteered at the Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand to work with the giant animals and learn about animal rescue and conservation on a larger scale. The Elephant Nature Park is home to more than 60 elephants who have been rescued from trekking, logging or forced breeding programs. Many of them had been abused and suffer from chronic injuries or blindness.

Bandyopadhyay and Pulice helped to feed, bathe and care for elephants, as well as learn about their diagnoses alongside an elephant vet. The Elephant Nature Park is home to more 1,000 animals, including cats, dogs, water buffalo, horses, and cows.

"My trip to Thailand was a dream come true," Pulice said. "I had a wonderful experience that incorporated Thai culture, veterinary work, service hours and caring for elephants. Taking care of the elephants at Elephant Nature Park was an experience that will stay close to my heart forever."

For the other week of the trip, volunteers spent time at the Animal Rescue Kingdom dog shelter in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The shelter is home to more than 100 dogs who have been rescued after being abandoned, beaten or abused. While the dogs can be adopted, any who aren't will be cared for by the shelter for their whole lives.

Students were involved in providing check-ups and cleanings, diagnosing and treating ear and eye problems, taking and testing blood, administering vaccines, cleaning and treating wounds, and helping with sterilization surgeries for the dogs.

"Working with elephants and learning about their history was incredibly eye opening," Bandyopadhyay said. "I treated elephants with many injuries from the hard lives they have lived. In addition, treating horses, goats, cats and dogs has taught me so much more about veterinary medicine. Spending part of my summer in beautiful Thailand has made my love for veterinary medicine even stronger."

With programs in Thailand, South Africa and Australia, Loop Abroad supports animal welfare and conservation around the world. Loop Abroad's animal science and veterinary programs are for students and young adults ages 14 to 30, and the program offers financial aid and fundraising help.

Admission to veterinary programs is selective, and Bandyopadhyay and Pulice were selected based on their transcript, admissions essay and professional references.
ANN ARBOR, MI - One of President Donald Trump's biggest supporters wasn't deterred from his mission, despite almost $4,000 worth of damage to his "Unity Bridge" while he was towing it to Washington, D.C., for a rally.

Livonia resident Rob Cortis told The Ann Arbor News he woke up the morning of Saturday, Sept. 16, to find his 2004 GMC Yukon XL and the 30-foot bridge on wheels he was towing vandalized in the parking lot of an Arlington County hotel in Virginia.

The Statue of Liberty on the "Unity Bridge" created by Livonia resident Rob Cortis was damaged by vandals the morning of Saturday, Sept. 16 in the parking lot of an Arlington County hotel in Virginia.

The bridge has the name "Trump" in large, block letters and is decorated with a Harley Davidson motorcycle, Statue of Liberty, flags and other American images. Cortis said the bridge represents a message he hopes can bring the country together.

The bridge and some of the objects on it were damaged by the vandals.

"When I came out, there was police cars out there and a couple guys standing," Cortis said. "I was maybe 500 feet away, I could see the flags were missing and the Statue of Liberty's arm was missing."

That was not all the damage recorded by Cortis and the responding police officers: tires were flattened, wires cut, safety straps slashed and bridge items were missing or damaged.

Cortis said laundry detergent was sprinkled all over his vehicle, rags placed inside the muffler and what looked like sugar near the gas tank.

"They tried to cause as many problems as they could," Cortis said. "The police were really helpful, they physically helped us move things and helped get some tools to get the stuff out of the muffler."

Need your help security left at 8 a.m. vandalism happened between 8 and 9 Posted by Rob Cortis on Friday, September 15, 2017

There were also messages, saying "What would Jesus say about this?" and "I heart killing brown people."

Cortis, 55, was on his way to the "Mother of All Rallies" in Washington, D.C., later in the day and said he still made it in time to make an appearance that evening.

The rally was organized to show support for the president and to "defend American culture and values," according to the event's website.

He had checked on his vehicle and bridge earlier that morning, around 4 a.m., Cortis said, and suspects the vandalism occurred between 6 a.m. when hotel security left and when he woke up.

Some surveillance cameras were either damaged or turned away from the vehicle's location, he added, but others in the area may have picked up license plates from vehicles entering or leaving the area of the hotel.

With the help of police officers, local residents and donations from area businesses, Cortis said he was able to fix what was required to drive and secured his bridge in order to make it to Washington.

He plans to continue raising donations through a GoFundMe page in order to make further repairs and outfit the bridge.

"We're going to get a new Statue of Liberty that will be made out of steel," Cortis said.

The damaged items will also stay in his inventory, Cortis said.

"People told me that something like this bridge and the artifacts, it would be amazing to have it on display at the Henry Ford Museum or maybe the Smithsonian Institute as part of the 2017 election cycle and the unity process," Cortis said.

While he was saddened at the extent of the damage, Cortis said it was the idea of missing out on the rally and driving his Unity Bridge past the White House that really got to him.

When asked if Trump is aware of the damage to the bridge built in his honor, Cortis said he was not sure if the president knew and has not heard from him.

In the end, Cortis displayed his bridge on the National Mall and stopped by Trump International Hotel for a few drinks and some camaraderie with fellow Trump supporters.

Cortis is currently in New York City after taking his bridge on a trip through the Big Apple, with a drive through Central Park past the Tavern on the Green and an appearance at Times Square.

He plans to return to Michigan, where he hopes the bridge can make an appearance on Mackinac Island for the Republican Leadership Conference Sept. 22-24.

Conference organizers are trying to get permission from island officials to bring the bridge over on a ferry, where it could be towed by either horses or a vehicle to a designated location, he said.

Cortis is hopeful police in Virginia are able to identify the culprits from multiple sets of fingerprints recovered from the vandalism scene, in order to get some answers.

"The people that know these people that start violence and cause destruction of others people's property, they need to put these people in their place and turn them in," Cortis said.

He especially wants to know why multiple American flags were damaged in the process.

"I don't understand the relevance of them stealing the flags or throwing them on the ground or ripping them. I don't understand that, if they don't like the flag, they should leave," Cortis said. "I don't know what's inspiring them to do that."
UNION TWP, MI -- A 23-year-old man is recuperating from a stab wound he suffered at a party outside of Mount Pleasant. As he convalesces, his assailant remains at large.

Just after midnight on Sunday, Sept. 17, Isabella County sheriff's deputies responded to an assault complaint at Deerfield Village Apartments, at 3400 East Deerfield Road in Union Township. Witnesses told them a party had been taking place.

During the party, the 23-year-old was in front of an apartment building when he was approached by another man. An argument ensued between the two, with the second man pulling a knife, grabbing the first man, and stabbing him in his abdomen.

Both the stabber and the victim fled on foot. Police located the victim behind another nearby apartment building, bleeding from his wound. He was taken to an area hospital, then transported to St. Mary's of Michigan in Saginaw for additional treatment.

He may have suffered internal organ damage, deputies report.

Deputies, Mount Pleasant police officers, and Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police K9 units searched for the assailant, to no avail.

The assailant is described as short and heavyset, about 24 years old. He was wearing a dark-blue button-up shirt.

Anyone with knowledge of the stabber's identity is urged to call deputies at 989-772-5911.
FLINT, MI - Nine months ago, Anderson Fernanders declared then-President-Elect Donald Trump a public enemy, petitioned for his arrest and sued him for 82 percent of his belongings.

Now, he's running for mayor of Flint.

Fernanders, a political newcomer from Flint's north side with a background in counseling, is running on a platform of "lowering the cost of living in the city while improving the quality of life for people in all wards."

Saying that the citizens of Flint have been "scapegoated" and forced into involuntary servitude by the state through emergency manager oversight, Fernanders says the city needs a defender, and that he's the man for the job.

"(Flint) is not as bleak as it's portrayed," Fernanders said. "It's not a dangerous, drug-infested war zone ... and we're not a city of dummies ... we've just been losing our context of life."

He said he has set his sights on challenging Mayor Karen Weaver for her job in hopes of lowering Flint's water bills and establishing programs to expunge non-violent felony records and decrease home and property insurance in the city.

In January, however, Fernanders' sights were set on challenging a different political leader: the then-incoming president of the United States.

Representing himself in court, Fernanders filed the complaint against Trump on Jan. 1, billing himself as the "Commander in Chief, Chief Executive and Commander of the victorious army including the Grand Army of the Republic."

According to Fernanders' complaint, Trump became his public enemy "on or about 72 business hours starting from 9:37 am of November 21, 2016 and 48 business hours starting from 9:37 am of December 12 2016" - dates marking a speech from Trump outlining his plans for his first 100 days in office and a day on which the president-to-be tweeted, condemning Russian collusion election suspicions, respectively.

Fernanders requested that Detroit U.S. District Court Judge Judith E. Levy issue a bench warrant for Trump's arrest, and sued for 82 percent of Trump's private property, money, trusts and all foreign and domestic assets, with the remaining 18 percent to be held in the court's treasury.

The suit came after Fernanders said the court system and federal government ignored "things that happened that weren't supposed to happen," but said he could not elaborate.

In February, Levy dismissed the case without prejudice after Fernanders declined to pay the filing fee or file paperwork for payment assistance.

Fernanders says the case against Trump is not over, and that "the truth shall prevail."

"It's really on behalf of all citizens as an indictment on the value of life," he said. "We have this illusion of justice, but we really need justice."

Fernanders also said he will seek to intervene in the federal lawsuit currently in mediation between the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Flint and city council over the city's future water source, hoping to sway the court to do away with any guidelines put in place by the city's former emergency managers or state-appointed Receivership Transition Advisory Board (RTAB).

Including Fernanders and current Mayor Karen Weaver, 18 candidate names will appear on the November ballot vying to become Flint's newest leader.

Despite court battles in April and August in which Weaver attempted to quash the efforts to oust her, the one-step recall election will appear on the Flint ballot on Nov. 7.

The recall looks to oust Weaver for agreeing to an emergency waste collection contract with Rizzo Environmental Services.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Sports utility vehicle specialist Mahindra & Mahindra and US giant Ford will explore a strategic alliance in areas of product development, future mobility, electric and connected vehicles.

Teams from both companies will collaborate and work together for a period of up to three years. Any further strategic cooperation between the two companies will be decided at the end of that period, both the companies said.

The two companies will explore the potential for shared investment, economies of scale, technology sharing and higher efficiencies in conventional areas like product development sourcing and distribution as also in emerging growth area of mobility, electrification and internet of vehicles of connected cars.

Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra said, The changes facing the automotive industry globally are triggered by the accelerated rise of new technologies, sustainability policies and new models of urban shared mobility. Given these changes we see the need to anticipate new market trends, explore alternatives and look for ways to collaborate even as we compete and build powerful synergies that will allow rapid exploitation of the exciting new opportunities.

Todays announcement builds on the foundation laid through our past partnership with Ford and will open opportunities for both of us, Goenka said.

Even after more than two decades of operation in India, Ford has failed to get a strong foothold in the domestic market. The company has dramatically shrunk its product portfolio to just five cars including the imported Mustang. Its domestic market share languishes at just around 3 percent.

Jim Farley, Ford Executive Vice President and President of Global Markets said, Our two companies have a long history of cooperation and mutual respect. The memorandum of understanding we have signed today with Mahindra will allow us to work together to take advantage of the changes coming in the auto industry. The enormous growth potential in the utility market and the growing importance of mobility and affordable battery electric vehicles are all aligned with our strategic priorities.

With General Motors announcing a break from India to focus purely on exports it was widely speculated that Ford could be the next to announce a similar strategy as exports are driving the volumes for the struggling company.

The two companies also said that they will explore the possibility of tapping into each others retail network as well. Ford will explore if it can use M&Ms India sales network while M&M will explore if it can use Fords global sales network. Joint sourcing of components for commercial efficiencies is also on the table.

Governments across the world are pushing for an environmentally clean and more efficient means of future mobility which includes electric and hybrid vehicles. With the Modi government too pushing for a 100 percent electric mobility plan from 2032 onwards companies have fast tracked their plans including new partnerships.

Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota signed a deal to work jointly in this area while Tata Motors explored a fruitless partnership with Volkswagen and Skoda. M&M has been at the forefront of the much anticipated electric revolution in India as it is the only company to manufacture and launch electric cars here.

If indeed Ford and Mahindra forge a partnership going ahead then history will repeat itself. Ford entered India through a 50:50 partnership with M&M in 1995. M&M was responsible for making the Ford Escort car in India. Ford raised its stake in the venture and eventually fully bought out M&Ms stake.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

The 31st Annual General Meeting ('AGM') of Shreevatsaa Finance and Leasing Limited ('the Company') was duly held today i.e. Monday, September 18, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at the registered office of the Company situated at 120/500(10), Lajpat Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh-208005.Members of the Company were provided remote e-voting facility which commenced from Thursday, September 14, 2017 (9:00 a.m. IST) and ended on Sunday, September 17, 2017 (5:00 p.m. IST) for the resolutions proposed to be transacted at the AGM. Subsequently, facility of voting by Poll was also provided to all the shareholders at the AGM, who did not exercise their right of remote e-voting.The proceedings of AGM is enclosed.The results of voting (both for remote e-voting and Poll) shall be initiated as per the statutory timelines.Source : BSE

Read More
BPCL

live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Indias second largest state-owned oil marketing company Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has been in talks with GAIL (India), countrys largest gas distributor, to purchase a majority of governments stake in latter, reports Mint.

People aware of the development told the financial newspaper that talks are in the initial stage and the government is yet to approve the plan.

Both the companies enjoy 'Maharatna' status conferred by the Centre that may result in some premium payable to the government.

The company finds GAIL as a perfect match to expand in the gas sector with a ready market and will create an integrated oil and gas giant.

The Centre has approved the merger of the third largest state-oil marketing company Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) with ONGC, after the Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys Budget announcement about creating an integrated oil company.

The Hindu reported on September 13 that BPCL aims to be ranked among the top 25 energy companies in the world, quoting BPCL Chairman D Rajkumar.

Current market capitalisation of BPCL is around Rs 1.08 lakh crore, while GAIL India has a market cap of around Rs 64,000 crore.

BPCL and GAIL India already have a business tie-up in the city gas distribution through joint ventures like Indraprastha Gas, Central UP Gas, Maharashtra Natural Gas and Goa Natural Gas.

BPCL Chairman D Rajkumar told reporters at post-annual general meeting press conference on September 12 that the company intends to invest Rs 1.08 trillion to expand operations across business segment in the next five years.

The company has won 5 city gas distribution licences for North Goa, Saharanpur, Yamunagar, Rohtak and Rupnagar in the sixth round held by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB). North Goa city distribution bid was won jointly by BPCL and GAIL.

The company has posted a revenue of Rs 2.42 lakh crore and a profit of Rs 8,000 crore for the financial year 2017.

If the Centre approves BPCL merger with GAIL India  it will help the government to achieve its divestment target of Rs 72,500 crore for the financial year.
A plug is seen coming from the Chevrolet Volt electric car during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan January 13, 2009. REUTERS/Mark Blinch (UNITED STATES) - RTR23CT6

Union minister for road transport and highways, Nitin Gadkari, at a recent event in New Delhi gave a jolt to automakers when he said he would not mind bulldozing fuel-based vehicles if they hamper his dream of E-vehicular India.

The auto-industry retorted soon with car makers giving interviews on every other channel, hailing the decision even as they tried to grapple with the reality and said that one must avoid taking the Ministers statement at face value.

After all these days, lets take a step back and come to terms with the statement.

When the minister said that the government has crystal-clear policy to curb pollution, he intended to underline the urgency of the issue along with underscoring governments take on clean fuel.

With policy on E-vehicles (EV) yet to be brought on the table, auto industry is left on its own to explore various possibilities to switch to electricity based transportation system.

The shift, however, will not be easy.

Also read: Switch to clean vehicles or be bulldozed: Nitin Gadkari to automakers

Moneycontrol talked to industry experts to seek their views on the ministers statement along with simplifying the entire fiasco.

The transition from internal combustion (IC), incumbent engine system, to electricity based system looks very difficult, according to Abdul Majeed, partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers, a consulting firm.

He said that, at present, penetration of EV is at three to four percent globally, thus going completely electronic in India will need time.

Ecosystem, in India, will take time, said Majeed adding that how one goes about the entire process of transition will decide the future of auto-industry.

Voicing similar concerns, S.P Singh, senior fellow, Indian Foundation of Transport Research and Training (IFTRT), an autonomous research body said that domestic manufacturers may find it tough to make such a hasty shift.

Unless (car) producers have high stakes (in EVs), (there is) definite investment in research and development and government comes out with clear road map, it will be difficult, said Singh.

Experts opine that shift to EVs is need of the hour albeit the target is ambitious.

EVs have huge business potential and benefit to the society, said Singh.

Rakesh Batra, partner at EY India said that having electronic vehicles is feasible, however, the adoption could vary from segment to segment.

Dont fear the 'bulldozer'

We should move towards alternative fuel... I am going to do this, whether you like it or not. And I am not going to ask you. I will bulldoze it. For pollution, for imports, my ideas are crystal clear... The government has a crystal-clear policy to reduce imports and curb pollution, Gadkari had said at Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturer's (SIAM) annual convention.

It must be noted that he did not say the statement in isolation and did add another point related to investment in research. I urge you (car makers) politely to do research he had said.

The ministers comment thus throws weight on his resolve to promote R&D, allowing the transition to be less painful.

I think, minister meant hand-in-hand transition, said Majeed. He is only putting urgency (in the mind of the manufacturers).

Also read: Full-fledged electric fleet to hit roads by December: Nitin Gadkari

The policy of the government for electric vehicles, in the long term, is a very sensible policy, said R.C Bhargava, chairman, Maruti Suzuki, soon after the ministers statement.

He said that the policy must be looked at in terms of energy security and not anti-cars per se.

Industry analysts said that the transition to EVs would require hand holding by the government coupled with due consultation with various stakeholders.

Roadblocks and roll out

Industry insiders say that time given for roll out could be reconsidered as 2030 could be a little too early to push for E-vehicles.

EVs in India hold less than one percent market share of total auto sector, of which 95 percent are low speed scooters.

Against three million fuel based cars in India, there were merely 2,000 electric cars in 2016-17. The number stand at 23,000 for e-scooters against more than 16 million fuel based two-wheelers.

The target set by the union ministry for roll out of EVs in India is 2030, which is 2032 for Scotland and 2040 for France and Britain. Recently, China announced its plans to phase out fuel based vehicles but did not specify the time.

The target is ambitious, said Batra.

He, however, said that 2030 could be the deadline for new vehicles to be electric, not all (existing) vehicles.

Also read: Progress report: Automakers plans for introducing electric vehicles on Indian roads

Experts pointed out a few hits and misses in the ministers ambition and said that a lot of issues need to be ironed out.

Hits

The minister has hit the bull's eye by starting the roll out with public transport and two wheelers. Two wheelers accounted for a whopping 80 percent of the entire automobile sales during 2015-16 as per data provided by SIAM.

E-scooters were also adopted more than 11 times by people against e-cars during 2016-17. Thus, introducing EVs through two wheelers in the market is the logical nudge to the scheme.

There can be a faster adoption of EVs in the public sector than the passenger vehicle segment, said Batra.

Analysts said that by pushing EVs through public transport, not only will the people become comfortable with the mode but it would address 85 percent of traffic at one go.

Road transport ministry plans to float tender for e-rickshaws, by November, to be used as public transport.

Another advantage that analysts feel is the achievement of economies of scale, or per unit cost reduction.

They feel that though the initial investment required will be huge but achieving low cost per unit would not be an issue.

India has a huge population so economies of scale can be created soon, said Singh. He said that India is a huge market, waiting to be tapped for E vehicles.

Lastly, experts feel that the urgency was needed to address the growing environmental concern. With global temperatures increasing constantly, they feel, its time that India targets roll out of EVs on priority basis.

Misses

The biggest concern for industry right now is the absence of EV policy. The ministry has pressed the automakers to shift towards EVs but has failed to lay out the road map for future.

Country is on a spring board with no clear cut policy, said Singh adding that government needs to lay out a long term plan, giving clear instructions to the automakers.

Batra said that Centre must adopt a systematic approach to bring out the policy.

Its difficult to comment on EVs future in India without any policy How do you go about it remains to be seen, said Majeed.

Singh said that automakers have been in doldrums due to frequent policy changes. With government giving recurrent directives about various auto-norms, automakers are confused about investment.

Automakers have huge amount invested in upgradation of fuel already they will think twice before investing in EVs, said Singh.

Automakers have been asked to switch from Bharat Stage-IV standard of fuel emission to BS VI (skipping V) by 2020 to control pollution levels.

He said that if automakers are being asked to invest in fuel technology, investing in EV would need deliberation.

A long-term stable technology-agnostic roadmap for the automotive industry driven by a sound regulatory framework is therefore the need of the hour so that the industry can invest for sustainable growth and development, in line with the aspirations of all stakeholders, said Rattan Kapur, president, Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), the apex body representing the auto component manufacturing industry, in a statement.

Next issue to look at is the time constraint. Experts feel that domestic players need more time for R&D rather than manufacturing. With no technology in hand, it will be difficult to bring EVs at mass scale.

Mahindra came out with Reva but had trial and errors for a long time, said Singh adding that manufacturers in India are not yet sure about EV manufacturing. Domestic manufacturers need time.

The process is slow to my mind, said Majeed. No one is ready yet.

Third and the biggest challenge is the lack of manufacturing site. India has no manufacturing site for EVs that could cater to mass scale production.

There is no battery manufacturing site in India right now, said Batra.

Import of batteries render them expensive, constituting 30 to 40 percent of total cost of production.

India also has deficit of charging stations. There are only 500 charging stations in India, against a requirement of approximately 3 lakh stations in Delhi.

Lastly, built-up inventory needs due consideration. Auto industry has huge inventory which should be sold off before sale of EVs begin in India.

It will be a big challenge to sell off the inventory, said Majeed.

Market growth of EVs will depend on the consumers acceptability and adaptability, feel experts.

Bhargava had also flagged the issue and said that companies would defer making plans till they could sense their respective customer bases sentiments.

There are no plans yet, he said. Real issue is that customers will have to become comfortable with buying these cars.

Consumers acceptance matters as they carry the onus of purchasing it, said Singh.

On the whole, while India is gearing up for adoption of E-vehicles in the wake of alarming pollution levels, the transition can come about only with a long term, clear policy regarding the transition. As customers will have to buy EVs once the cars are ready, auto-makers must invest in R&D to make cars affordable and convenient for the buyers.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

The number of wilful defaulters who have the resources to pay has been on the rise, reports the Indian Express, quoting data from a report by the TransUnion CIBIL, a credit information firm.

Local lenders have seen a 45 percent jump of Rs 34,900 crore in loan defaulters from last year. According to the report, the wilful defaults jumped to Rs 1,09,594 crore in March 2017 from Rs 74,694 crore in the same period last year.

Over the last five years, defaults have risen by over Rs 84,000 crore. In FY16, wilful defaulters rose 31 percent while in 2015, it grew 47.5 percent, according to the report.

The State Bank of India tops the default list with Rs 15,069 crore stuck in 997 accounts. In FY17, this amount grew by Rs 2,759 crore.

Punjab National Bank and Bank of Baroda are next in the list with Rs 10,989 and Rs 4,785 crore worth defaults, respectively.

In SBI, the default account includes accounts of GET Engineering with default of Rs 424 crore and Zenith Birla with Rs 139 crore default. PNB has put accounts of Zoom Developers with Rs 410 crore defaults, Forever Precious (Rs 747 crore) and Winsom Diamond with Rs 899 crore under the default list.

On the other hand, wilful defaults with the LIC reduced to Rs 1,034 crore in March 2017 from Rs 1,304 crore in the same period last year.

All India Bank Employees Association General Secretary CH Venkatachalam told Indian Express that such wilful default accounts should be declared as a criminal offence and action must be taken against them.
Latha Venkatesh

It is surprising there is so little debate and worry about October 3. What is important about that date? It's the day when market regulator SEBIs seismic rule kicks in requiring all companies to declare their loan defaults to banks within one working day (The rule officially kicks in on October 1, but October 1 and 2 are trading holidays).

At the outset, it must be stated that this rule itself is a welcome revolution, a much-needed cleansing of the banking system and its nexus with corporate India. For too long now, there has been huge opacity in terms of how many companies are paying back their loans leading to the current accumulation of Non-performing assets (NPAs) or non- performing loans with banks. Had this rule been put in the books in 2010 or 2012, such an accumulation of NPAs may not have come to pass.

Also, there are those who believe that thanks to the AQR or the asset quality review by Reserve Bank of India in 2015, most of the big NPAs or defaults are well and widely known and hence starting October, nothing new is going to be revealed that can rattle the stock markets.

There are also others who believe that like the GST, there will be temporary disruptions, but things will settle down as those who default by a few days pay back and the fresh disclosure reassures markets.

The truth is most bankers, rating agencies, brokerages and companies are unsure how this will play out and some are terribly worried.

Heres why.

Bankers say non-payment of interest to banks even by a day could lead rating agencies to immediately downgrade the bank facilities of these companies to "D". Bank loans to companies rated "D" in turn will have to be supported with higher risk capital. Given that banks are already facing the prospect of large need for capital to meet NPA and bankruptcy cases, this fresh onslaught can stretch them.

What is worse, once a company is rated "D", banks may even be unwilling to give them fresh loans since even these will attract higher risk capital. Hence, what may be a few days default for some innocuous reason may lead to stoppage of credit and hence stoppage of production for a longish period.

The SEBI rule comes at a particularly inopportune time when liquidity in the system is already very tight because of the Goods & Services Tax or the GST. Exporters havent got their Integrated GST (IGST) credits from the government because the network is still not fully functional. Further, companies have not got their input tax credit either which means a larger part of their working capital is locked up with the government as taxes.

With the cash situation already tight, the chances of hundreds even thousands of companies defaulting by a few days is very likely. And if their bank facilities are immediately rated "D" by the rating agencies, and the banks therefore refuse to lend additional credit, many companies can go out of business temporarily. Like under demonetisation and GST, some may not have the buffer to stay put and can go out of business permanently.

It is possible things may not play out so badly. Companies may borrow from their group companies and associates and avoid default, knowing the consequences. In many cases, it may only be a case of disciplining cash flows to pay on the 29th day, unlike the current processes which are designed to pay on the 89th day.

Also, some experts say most of the loans in India are given by banks on a cash credit basis, and the danger of default in these cases is low since companies rarely borrow up to their limit.

Some also argue that most of the stressed companies are already in SMA1 or SMA2 category. (SMA is special mention category; SMA1 comprises loans where interest has not been paid within 30 days, and SMA2 are those where interest is over due by over 60 days). Banks are already aware of these.

But some bankers say being aware of a stressed loan is not the same as having to provide additional risk capital for them. Starting October, they say, most banks can become even more averse to lending, and the aversion will start even as the busy season for business starts. In addition, companies barely recovering from demonetisation and GST may be unable to survive in the face of the fresh squeeze on capital.

All this may not happen, but perhaps the regulators  both SEBI and RBI  need to call bankers and rating agencies and ponder over how the rule may be actually implemented without killing the spirit of the rule or the businesses.
In the coming decade, India will come to supply over 'half of the increase in Asias potential workforce', according to a report by Deloitte LLP. Thanks largely to its young population, who won't be getting older any time soon, India is set to become an economic superpower.

Currently, about one-third of Indias working age population are between 15-64. And this gives India a chance, better than China and Japan, to reap the benefits of its still young population.

Those aged over 65 in Asia will grow from 365 million in 2017 to more than 520 million in 2027 owing largely to China and Japan. Both the economic super houses will see a sharp drop in its working population which will mean a lower growth for these countries.

Ageing Asia

There have been two waves of growth in Asia giving rise to two economic superpowers  Japan and China. Their success stories were written by their working population. While Japan saw its people power peak in the 1990s (owing to skilled workforce rather the number of it), China has recently started reaping its fruits.

For Japan, its peak potential workforce was 87.78 million in 1995. For China, the peak was in 2014 at 1.01 billion. Both the countries are now on a downward slope. Along with these, other Asian giants like Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and Taiwan are also mirroring Chinas story.

Over the coming decade, as per the Deloitte report, except India, the Phillippines, and Indonesia, almost all major Asia-Pacific economies will suffer from the loss of working population. China will get old before it fully succeeds in getting rich, states the report.

Age-old opportunity

From a business point of view, an ageing population comes with its own set of opportunities. As the population growing older, demand in sectors like nursing, healthcare and consumer goods for elderly is growing. Moreover, with more stress on the government budget, private players, especially in healthcare, can reap the benefits.

Tsuyoshi Oyama, Deloitte Japan Economist, notes, As is already increasingly evident in Japan, the surge in ageing-related opportunities will be evident well beyond health care. Rapid ageing in the Japanese population has changed the needs of people and the way businesses satisfy them. There has been an increasing demand in sectors such as nursing, consumer goods for the elderly, age-appropriate housing and social infrastructure, as well as asset management and insurance.

50 years of Indian summer

Indias story is full of promises. The current median age of the country is 27.3 years, one of the lowest in Asia. Comparatively, Japan with 47.1 years stands as the oldest country in the world whereas China is rapidly ageing with a median age of 37.6 years.

The current potential workforce of India is 885 million. The number will jump to 1.08 billion in 2037 and will remain above a billion for the first half of this century.

These new workers will be better trained and skilled for the future; besides, a large chunk of the workforce will be women; the three big levers of economic potentialthe 3Ps of population, participation, and productivityare all set to surge in India.

The caveat and challenges

The next 50 years are set to usher in an Indian summer as the economy will see an unprecedented growth. However, there is a caveat. The growth does not guarantee that the country will get richer.

There are various points of concern which also unlocked hidden opportunities. The most prominent one is inequality. In its Global Risks Report 2016, the World Economic Forum identified inequality as a significant risk to global growth in this decade. An efficient and equal delivery of government policies and services is important for inclusive growth.

India needs the right institutional set-up to promote and sustain its growth. Otherwise, its rising population could cause increasing unemployment and consequent social unrestthe phenomenon often observed in African countries, says the Deloitte report.

Another challenge which India faces now is the declining share of female participation in labour. Over the last decade, the participation has fallen from 37 percent to 27 percent. According to ILOs Global Employment Trends 2013 report, out of 131 countries with available data, India ranked 121st in female labour force participation. To achieve its full potential, womens participation needs to start to rise from its current level.

The workforce also faces another big challengeautomation. For example, in the IT sector, around 40 percent of the workforce will need reskilling to stay relevant in the face of automation while 50-60 percent of jobs will require new skills, according to NASSCOM.

As robots are eating low-skill jobs across the services and manufacturing sector, the countrys booming workforce needs to be ready for a somewhat bleak future if appropriate measures by the government are not taken.

However, the best resource which India still has is time. As the Indian demographic cycle is about 10-30 years behind than its counterparts the country has enough time to work on these challenges.
Shereen Bhan reports that the government is concerned about the slowdown and is now actively looking at options to stimulate the economy but fiscal space is limited. High level meetings are being held to weigh options.

Also, Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been critical of the demonetisation and goods and services tax (GST) roll outs since the beginning. He had categorically mentioned that the economy was running on just one engine of public spending. In an interview to Network18, Former Prime Minister has once again warned that the gross domestic product (GDP) growth will be affected adversely.
Devendra Fadnavis

Maharashtra is on track to become a trillion-dollar economy, given the impetus to infrastructure development in the last three years, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today.

The state attracted more than half of the total foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country last fiscal, Fadnavis said at an industry event.

"Maharashtra is on track to become a trillion-dollar economy, given the impetus to infrastructure development in the last three years," Fadnavis said at the 5th edition of the 'Progressive Maharashtra Summit', organised by industry body Ficci here.

The theme of the summit this year is 'Maharashtra 2025: Leapfrogging to $1 Trillion Economy'.

Noting that the state has always been a leader in industry and business in the country, the chief minister said there have been times when Maharashtra's leadership position was "threatened, challenged and compromised" to some extent.

"However, I should tell you that in the last three years of our government, we have been successful in bringing the state back to the leadership position in the country," he asserted.

Using the FDI metrics in Maharashtra as an indicator, Fadnavis said the state accounted for more than half of the country's foreign direct investment last year, which shows the confidence of global investors.

There used to be a very close competition between Delhi, Karnataka and Gujarat in terms of attracting FDI, he said.

In 2016-17, of the overall FDI, as much as 53 per cent came into Maharashtra, making it the undisputed leader, the chief minister added.

Fadnavis stressed that the reforms being taken up by the government are paving the way for making India globally competitive.

"We have the demography, democracy and demand," he said, adding that when the world population is ageing, 50 per cent of India's population is under 35.

"This demographic dividend can be leveraged to transform Maharashtra into a manufacturing hub to cater to domestic and global demand," he explained.

Fadnavis observed that the Maharashtra government has created infrastructure projects to the tune of Rs 5.96 lakh crore and is looking at setting up more projects worth Rs 1 lakh crore, going forward.

This, he said, would create a lot of jobs for industries in the services sector and enable delivery based on information, communication and technology (ICT).

Fadnavis also said his government will complete 120 kms of new Metro rail lines in Mumbai and another 200 kms in the Mumbai metropolitan region in the next four years, potentially creating an additional capacity of another nine million.

On the trans-harbour link connecting Mumbai-Navi Mumbai, the chief minister promised that the job order will be issued in the next 20 days with the work set to start before year-end.

On the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Fadnavis said the first phase is likely to be commissioned by December 2019 and the second by 2022.

Notably, aviation think-tank Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), in a report last week, said the much-delayed Navi Mumbai airport is unlikely to commence operations before March 2024, given the fact that the successful bidder was yet to receive the official go-ahead for the project.

Fadnavis also said the Nagpur-Mumbai Super Communication Expressway will integrate 24 districts in the hinterland of the state to India's largest port, JNPT, enabling transporting cargo to the port within 12 hours.
Agriculture Sector | Technological advancements are reshaping Africas agricultural sector in helping to pioneer a new agro-business strategy. Automation is replacing many jobs traditionally done by farm labourers such as harvesting and crop sorting. (Image Source: )

The Centre has called a two-day national-level conference starting tomorrow to chalk out a strategy for sowing of rabi (winter) crops like wheat and discuss ways to double farmers' income by 2022.

Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh will inaugurate the conference at Vigyan Bhawan here. "It will take review of kharif crops and discuss with state governments on preparedness for the coming rabi season," a senior Agriculture Ministry official said.

It will also review the progress of important schemes like Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, online agri-market and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). Eight groups will be formed to discuss each of the schemes with state agriculture officials and stakeholders and see if any improvement need to be made.

The issue on management of drought and drought-proofing of 30 vulnerable districts as well as doubling of farmers income will be discussed in the conference. The main rabi crops are wheat, barley, gram, pulses, linseed and mustard.
The recently passed new Metro rail policy opened doors for private sector to invest in the urban transport that has gained momentum in various cities over the years.

Metro connectivity has reached 370 kilometers across eight cities, including Delhi (217 km), Bengaluru (42.30 km), Kolkata (27.39 km), Chennai (27.36 km), Kochi (13.30 km), Jaipur (9 km), and Gurugram (Rapid metro- 1.6 km).

While the promptly fanning metro line has become popular among the masses for convenient travelling, the policy has opened debate about the model used for setting up a metro line.

The new Metro policy has mandated alternate analysis of various forms of public transport and suggested that the least cost mode be taken up by the government and private investors.

Seeking to ensure that least cost mass transit mode is selected for public transport, the new policy mandates alternate analysis, requiring evaluation of other modes of mass transit like BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System), Light Rail Transit, Tramways, Metro Rail and Regional Rail in terms of demand, capacity, cost and ease of implementation, reads the policy.

With alternate mode of public transport, the government has acknowledged the growing need of mass transport facility to tackle the traffic congestion and pollution menace even as it accepted that metro is not the only option.

The point of deliberation, however, was the mandatory involvement of private investors in such long term projects who have recently shown lack of interest in such projects.

On the face of it, the disinterest seems valid as public projects fail to generate revenue in the initial years.

Consider Delhi Metro. The project started off as a joint venture (JV) between Government of India and Japan where the share of Japanese government reduced from 60 percent to 48.5 percent as the project progressed from phase-I to phase-III.

With a total investment of more than Rs 70,000 crore over the three phases, the project has been incurring loses over the past decade.

Loss (considering profit after tax) incurred by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) was Rs 7,632.82 lakh in 2004-05 which fell over the years till 2008-09, when it earned Rs 4,132.04 lakh.

DMRC incurred massive loss again in 2009-10 amounting to Rs 20,522.86 lakh. In 2013-14, the loss was Rs 9,980 lakh.

Following this, private sector has been reluctant to invest in such dicey projects where revenue generation is not free-flowing.

Experts, however, say that public transportation system must be looked as a social concept rather attaching any commercial value to it.

Public transportation can never be a commercial success, said S.P Singh, senior fellow, Indian Foundation of Transport Research and Training (IFTRT), an autonomous research body.

The by-products of public transport are that people can move fast or safely People reach in time. Those are the social and economic gain, which we have to discount while making the projects.

He said that private investors must realise that public transportation system is not profitable and investments in such projects should avoid profiteering.

Metro projects are long-haul projects and will take long time to break-even. They will not generate profit during the first 10 to 15 years, Singh said.

Amit Bhatt, director, World Resources Institute, India, an organisation providing solutions for urban settlement, said that investors must recognise that metro projects are capital intensive.

Experts opine that to make Public Private Partnership (PPP) a success for such capital sensitive projects, the framework of PPP has to be redefined and regularised.

Various types of PPP can be implemented, said Bhatt, suggesting that there can't be "one definition" of PPP.

He pointed towards the difference between Delhis airport line, which was built by DMRC and Delhi Airport Metro Express Private Limited (DAMEPL) under PPP model and Gurugrams Rapid Metro, which was nations first privately owned metro project and was undertaken by a consortium of DLF Metro (26 percent) and IL&FS (74 percent), named IL&FS Transportation Networks (ITNL).

While the former was mired into a controversy when DAMEPL pulled out of the project citing slow revenue recovery, the latter has been running fairly well.

The new Metro policy, experts feel, could be a breather in this sense as the policy has opened various options of investment.

The policy envisages private sector participation in operation and maintenance of metro services in different ways. These include cost plus fee contract, gross cost contract and net cost contract

Bhatt said that the proposal to have alternate analysis and three types of funding proposal is a welcome move.

The policy stated that investment could be made through a PPP model with central assistance under the viability gap funding scheme of the Finance Ministry, a grant from the Centre under which 10 percent of the project cost would be given as a lump sum, or a 50:50 equity sharing model between the Central and State governments.

How to make PPP work?

Singh said that private investors need to be more vigilant before taking up public projects while ushering in transparency and audit checks.

DMRC must ensure that the people (private investors) they hire, the equipment and services they hire with construction companies must adhere to safety and payment schedule and that should be audited by DMRC or third party, said Singh adding that this will make PPP model more efficient and cost effective.

Experts suggested that India could follow a China-like model where the appreciated value of land (near metro sites) could be shared between Metro corporations and land owners to plough back the windfall gain as an investment in the project.

Bhatt said that the only metro project that seemed financially viable was the Hong Kong project where land was developed and the money was used to run the metro.

According to a World Bank discussion paper on Chinas urban transport system, the real estate sector shows a boom-bust trend where the realisation of development gain depends critically upon project implementation. This implies that such decisions would call for time bound implementation to reap the appreciated land value.

Experts further suggested that investors must accept the inflexibility of revenue generated from Metro.

Since the revenue depends on ridership, it is inflexible, said Bhatt adding that investors must have realistic idea about the ridership figures before making an investment.

Because forecast of metro ridership have been shown to be almost always optimistic, and often very high; and because knowledge of the potential of lower cost operations has shown to be poor, there are strong reservations about the reason that there is no alternative, and a metro is necessary on capacity grounds. Often, I retrospect, this has not been so, observed the paper.

When you make Metro, you must realise that the rate of return will be very low and very slow, said Singh adding that India needs public transport, hence we have to pick up a system which is having its own drawbacks, whether it is cost or inconvenience.

Third, private investors can be asked to invest only for certain parts of metro project so that they are refrained from investing huge capital.

There can be various levels of involvement (of private investors), said Bhatt.

Partial involvement of private investors could save them from unnecessary losses while supporting government to augment the public transport facility.

The new policy has acknowledged this method by suggesting that private investment can be routed either for complete provision of metro rail or for some unbundled components.

Lastly, bringing up projects at right location can prove to be beneficial for all the stakeholders.

Metros are needed (but) at the right location Then, it will be beneficial, said Bhatt.

He said that certain level of ridership could be used as a parameter to judge the requirement of metro and also to ensure a safe bet for investment.

Metros are not God sent opportunity to the citizens It was required (earlier) but (now) every city is following, whether it is required or not, said Singh.

On the whole, the new Metro policy appears to be underlining the growing need of public transport, along with safeguarding the private investors by keeping the window open for various routes through which investment can be made along with mooting an alternate analysis for projects.

Investors, however, must admit the slow and low rate of return under public projects and adopt realistic approach before investing at a viable location.
RN Bhaskar

There is toil and turmoil in Indias energy markets today.

On the one hand you have researchers who sometimes get muddled up with the costs and the future of renewable energy sources. One of the best examples of such muddled thinking can be found in the latest Economic Survey  pages 119-128 of Volume II  when it discusses the energy scene in India.

On the other is the constant penchant on the part of each state (at times even the central) government to vitiate the investment climate. Some of them have been trying to renege on power purchase agreements (PPAs) which were signed with entrepreneurs who were early investors in this sector, even when the costs were high.

There is a third, and equally serious problem with renewable energy sources, of the entire regulatory machinery working overtime to try and frustrate the onward march of renewables. This is an aspect that shall be dealt with in another article.

But lets dwell on the first two issues here. In fact the Economic Survey itself admits to the second problem listed above. It states quite candidly that as discoms realise that there are cheaper, alternative sources of power than their current PPA rates with generators, there will be a growing rush to seek to renegotiate tariffs downwards.

Heads I win, tails you lose?

The survey points to the manner in which states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan have announced that they might want to renegotiate some of their existing contracts. This makes matters more complicated especially in the context of the Supreme Court of Indias recent ruling that contracts are sacrosanct (when considering the pleas of the Adani and the Tata groups that they be allowed to renegotiate their PPAs). Thus, states talk about the sanctity of the PPAs and contracts when the terms benefit them. When the terms hurt the state, it is willing to pass laws retrospectively, and then begin to talk about the need to renegotiate contracts.

This is a very dangerous trend, and unless the Supreme Court firmly puts down such tendencies, India will see its investment climate worsen. Early investors put their money into a project hoping for high returns even when the risks remain equally high. This is what investors did in Germany in 2000, when the cost of solar power was well over the equivalent of Rs 20 a unit. But Germany signed a 20-year contract with them, because that is the price a country pays for inviting entrepreneurs to take risks. That was the vision of Hermann Scheer, the minister for energy in Germany who ushered in the solar power revolution into the world.

His reasoning was simple. He constantly used to tell people that if solar got even 1 percent of the subsidies oil and gas had enjoyed so far, it would become a dominant source of energy. He introduced the Feed In Tariff (FIT) which then became the model for the entire world when it came to promoting renewable energy. Now that the 20-year period is drawing to a close for early investors, Germany will see a tapering off in renewable energy costs.

Germanys example is relevant

Hermann Scheers example is relevant here for several reasons.

The Economic Survey rightly points out that the costs of solar power are falling (see chart). In fact, because the costs have fallen, many governments are tempted to compel initial investors who signed PPAs with state discoms at the prices prevailing then to lower their tariffs now. They forget that the reason why Germany attracts investments is because it honours state-guaranteed commitments. The Rs 20 tariffs apply to the first investors even today. The cost of solar power will begin to taper off sharply for Germany from 2020 when (progressively) the 20-year terms for the first set of investors reach their expiry date.

Indian legislators have yet to respect the sanctity of contracts. They ignored this principle in the Privy Purses case, and they have tried redrafting and meddling with contracts time and again, often with retrospective effect. This abrogation of contracts should not be allowed to happen again. It pushes up investment costs as the risk element has to be factored in.

While the Economic Survey is on the dot as far as this issue is concerned, it appears to have been misled on other issues.

Take, for instance, the way it has come up with preposterous figures showing the social costs of renewable power to be higher than that of coal-based power (see chart).

Absurd social cost calculations

The Survey explains the social cost of power in the following manner: Social cost of carbon refers to the economic cost or loss in the discounted value of economic welfare induced by an additional unit of carbon dioxide emissions (Nordhaus, 2017). The generation of power from coal-based thermal power plants is based on the combustion of coal as fuel and thus generates emissions that contribute to increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Nordhaus (2017) finds that the global social cost of carbon at 2010 prices for the year 2015 was USD 31.2 per tCO2.

After computing the costs involved, the Survey concludes, Our estimates of social costs of coal and renewables show that in 2017 the social cost of renewables was around 3 times that of coal at $11 per KWh. Drill down the costs computed, and you find that the survey has looked at the following costs: (a) private costs of generation; (ii) social cost of carbon; (iii) health costs ; (iv) costs of intermittency; (v) opportunity cost of land; (vi) stranded assets; (vii) cost of government incentives.

The survey suggests that the private costs of generating power can be higher than power from large scale grids. It does not say this explicitly, but that appears to be the implication. If that is the reasoning, the Survey forgets that when it comes to countries like India, the advantages accruing from small scale production by large numbers can be substantially higher than the advantages from mass production.

A good example is the Verghese Kurien model of dairy farming in India, making this country the largest producer of milk in the world. It is also the lowest cost producer of milk. But more importantly, he showed the entire world that it is possible to reduce milk collection, processing, marketing, distribution and other related costs to just 20 percent of the market price of milk.

He overturned the conventional global formula which left one-third of the market price for the farmer, one-third for the processor, and one-third for marketing and distribution. Kurien allowed 80 percent of the market price to go back to the farmer. His motto remained production by masses, not mass production. And it worked. A similar development appears to be taking place in power generation as well. Millions of small producers of power could render redundant the conventional structure of power generation, transmission and distribution.

The survey also talks about the cost of land. This is a cost that occurs only when one plans for large scale solar farms. Many believe that some of the large solar farm projects are likely to end up as land-grab exercises in much the same way as many SEZ (special economic zone) projects were a decade ago.

Why Rooftops?

When one opts for rooftop solar the cost of land almost disappears. That is something the the government refused to focus on till around two years ago. And considering that India has over 250 million households, it stands to reason that it has one of the largest number of dwelling units. Logically, therefore, rooftop solar is a strategic advantage that India enjoys in abundance. Moreover, since transmission lines from the source of energy to the consumption point are the shortest, transmission losses also disappear.

In fact, even though Germany has fewer houses, even this country understood the enormous advantage rooftop solar offered. And do bear in mind that this was done more than 15 years ago. The government (and the survey) also forgot that rooftop solar has resulted in this sector providing more employment in Germany than even the automobile sector. Clearly, for a country that needs jobs, that needs to harness the energies of the masses and also decentralise power generation and consumption, the economic survey has only looked at projects that make use of land, and not at rooftop solar.

When it comes to subsidies, the Survey rightly points out that most of the subsidies relate to wind power, not solar power (see chart). In fact, subsidies for solar have climbed down to almost zero. If one goes through one of the finest talks on the disruption that will take place on the energy front, it becomes evident that unsubsidised solar power for residences with 100 hour standby is now possible at 7 cents a kWh for long term (15-20 years) contracts. Unfortunately, the survey appears to have ignored all this. When computing social costs, it has clubbed the subsidies for wind with solar and has come up with a distorted picture about renewables accounting for higher social costs than coal.

There are other issues that the Survey has overlooked. One of them is the inevitable clash between the old structure of generation, transmission and distribution. But that is something that will be dealt with later.

(The writer is Consulting Editor with Moneycontrol)
Mumbai-headquartered Livewel Aviation has shown interest in acquiring the ground handling business of the debt-laden Air India, reports CNBC-TV18.

The company has written to Aviation Ministry in this regard.

Livewel Aviation is a family-owned business run by Manek Daver and Burzin Daver. The company provides ground handling and maintenance services to airlines.

So far, four companies have shown interest in the ground handling business of Air India including Bird Group and Celebi Aviation.

Last month, Bird Group had shown interest in acquiring debt-laden Air India's ground handling business. The company wrote a letter to the aviation ministry showing interest in investing in the national carrier, Civil Aviation Secretary RN Chaubey had said.

Earlier, IndiGo had expressed interest in taking over the carriers international operations.

Air India is reeling under debt of nearly Rs 52,000 crore. Of this, about Rs 28,000 crore is working capital debt and Rs 4,000 crore is interest. Despite receiving Rs 24,000 crore bailout package, the airline has failed to turn its fortune.

In June this year, the Cabinet had given an in-principle nod for strategic disinvestment of the state-run airline.

A group of ministers led by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley are expected to meet on Wednesday evening to discuss Air Indias divestment plan. The government is likely to divest Air Indias subsidiaries separately and hopes to complete the carriers disinvestment plan before the end of current year.
Tata Motors is aiming to undertake a massive cost-cutting programme as parts of efforts towards turning profitable, sources have told CNBC-TV18.

According to the sources, the cost-cutting will be looked at from two aspects  employee cost and capacity utilisation.

On the capacity utilisation front, the firm is in the process of reviewing three passenger vehicle (PV) manufacturing plants in Ranjangaon, Pantnagar and Dharwad. The passenger vehicle capacity utilisation currently stands at 31 percent.

The plants are being reviewed with the possibility of 'hibernation' of high unused capacity and reviewing the rationalisation of spare passenger vehicle capacity and checking the possibility of cutting fixed costs.

For the employee cost, Tata Motors is opting for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) scheme for which sources have told CNBC-TV18 that around 450 former employees have opted for this scheme. The employee cost was about Rs 3,558.52 crore in FY17.

With these two avenues, the firm will be able to save over Rs 600 crore in FY18, out of which Rs 300-350 crore will be saved via headcount rationalisation.

Earlier, Tata Motors MD Guenter Butschek told CNBC-TV18 that the company will turn profitable within six to nine months.
It was a historic day for the market as the Nifty50 ended at fresh record closing high on Monday, tracking positive global cues on easing of geopolitical tensions. All eyes are on two-day Federal Reserve monetary policy meeting that will begin on Tuesday.

The 50-share NSE Nifty rallied 67.70 points to 10,153.10 while the 30-share BSE Sensex was up 151.15 points at 32,423.76, which is 263 points away from its record high of 32,686.48.

Experts expect the rally to continue for a while despite rich valuations. However, if September quarter earnings disappoint then sharp correction is likely, they feel.

"Continued inflow in domestic funds, benign interest rate environment, stable currency coupled with favorable global cues is driving markets higher. Anxiety in global markets over North Korea has tapered off," Gautam Duggad, Head- Research, Motilal Oswal Institutional Equities said.

He believes while valuations are not euphoric, they are rich versus long period averages and therefore support from earnings pick up is critical to sustain these valuations, going forward.

On the global front, European markets were higher as global investors returned to perceived riskier assets amid cooling geopolitical tensions. France's CAC, Germany's DAX and Britain's FTSE were up 0.3 percent each at the time of writing this article. Asian markets closed higher, following positive lead from Wall Street.

Back home, the broader markets continued to outperform benchmarks as the Nifty Midcap ended at fresh record closing high for third consecutive session, up 0.7 percent on positive breadth.

All sectoral indices ended in green. Nifty Bank closed above the 25,000 level for first time since August 2, up 0.82 percent at 25,046.90.

Auto index was the leading gainer, up 1.2 percent followed by FMCG, IT and Metal.

Bharti Infratel was biggest gainer among Nifty 50 stocks, up 4 percent on likely tower sale deal.

L&T, HUL, Vedanta, IndusInd Bank, Eicher Motors, Bajaj Auto and Indiabulls Housing were prominent gainers among largecaps, up 2-4 percent followed by Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank that ended with half a percent gains.

ITC, ONGC, SBI, Tata Steel, TCS, Sun Pharma and Tata Power ended with marginal losses.

Among new listings, Dixon Technologies ended with hefty premium today, rising nearly 64 percent to Rs 2,891.55 against issue price of Rs 1,766 while Bharat Road Network was up 1.7 percent at Rs 208.45 against IPO price of Rs 205.

In broader space, Tinplate, TVS Electronics, VIP Industries, Titan Company, Jubilant Fooworks, Liberty Shoes, Graphite India, HEG, Prakash Industries, Vascon Engineers, BF Utilities, DHFL, Exide Industries, JK Tyre and Apollo Tyres rallied 2-20 percent.

Jaiprakash Associates, Religare Enterprises, Jaypee Infratech, Indiabulls Real and Divis Labs fell 3-5 percent.
3:30 pm Market at Close: Benchmark indices began the week on a strong note, with the Nifty ending at record closing high of over 10,150-mark.

The Sensex was up 151.15 points at 32423.76, while the Nifty was up 67.70 points at 10153.10. The market breadth was positive as 1515 shares advanced against a decline of 1109 shares, while 165 shares were unchanged.

Midcaps outperformed frontline indices, while all other sectoral indices ended in the green, barring PSU Banks.

Bajaj Auto, Hindustan Unilever and Bharti Infratel were the top gainers on both indices, while ONGC and Tata Steel lost the most.

3:29 pm Tie-up: Mahindra Group and Ford Motor Company today agreed to explore a strategic alliance, designed to leverage the benefits of Fords global reach and expertise and Mahindras scale in India and successful operating model.

The agreement between the two companies will allow each to leverage their mutual strengths during a period of unprecedented transformation in the global automotive industry.

Teams from both companies will collaborate and work together for a period of up to three years. Any further strategic cooperation between the two companies will be decided at the end of that period.

3:28 pm Cost cutting plan: Tata Motors has undertaken massive cost cutting programme to turn profitable, reports CNBC-TV18 quoting unnamed sources.

Sources said cost cutting measures may boost bottomline by over Rs 600 crore in FY18.

Last week, Tata Motors MD Guenter Butschek told CNBC-TV18 that the company would turn profitable in 6-9 months.

The company has been reviewing rationalisation of spare passenger vehicle capacity to cut fixed costs. It has also been reviewing possibility of 'hybernation' of some plants with high unused capacity.

Sources said 3 manufacturing plants at Ranjangaon, Pantnagar and Dharwad were under review.

Currently its passenger vehicle capacity utilisation stood at about 31 percent.

3:25 pm Mallya assets: The Enforcement Directorate (ED), under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), has started the process of seizing the assets of Vijay Mallya, Chairman of the non-operational Kingfisher Airlines Ltd, reports The Indian Express.

Shares, worth Rs 100 crore, held directly or indirectly by Mallya in United Breweries Ltd (UBL) were transferred by Stock Holding Corporation of India Ltd (SHCIL) to the central government.

ED wrote to SHCIL two months ago to transfer the title and rights of unpledged shares of UBL, United Spirits Ltd (USL) and McDowell Holdings Ltd valued at Rs 4,000 crore held by Mallya and his associate firms, under section 9 of the PMLA.

3:22 pm Drug filing: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals plans to file close to 25 product applications annually over the next five years, the company's chairman has said. The Mumbai-based firm also expects to launch nearly 20 products annually.

"We expect to file 20-25 abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) each year over the next five years and launch 10-20 products annually," Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Chairman and MD Glenn Saldanha said in the company's annual report for 2016-17.

While acknowledging strict regulatory environment, he added that the company's pipeline of specialty products, to be rolled out over the next 3-4 years, is expected to act as a defence against generic price erosion and increase in competition, and boost profitable growth.

3:12 pm Rupee Outlook: The rupee is expected to remain rangebound and average at 64.3 against the US dollar in the current financial year and is likely to be lower at 65.4 in 2018-19, says a UBS report.

According to the global financial services major, it has been among the better performing currencies in the emerging markets and has appreciated 6 per cent so far this year, but there are few triggers left for a sharp rally of the rupee from its current level.

UBS' forex strategist Rohit Arora sees the rupee (as against the US dollar) at 64 with upside risks over the next three months. "For the full year, the rupee could average 64.3 in 2017 -18 and 65.4 in 2018-19," UBS said in a research note.

The factors that supported the rupee this year include robust FII debt flow, a strong state election result (Uttar Pradesh), continued reform momentum, improving growth prospects and external stability.

3:05 pm Market Outlook: "Continued inflow in domestic funds, benign interest rate environment, stable currency coupled with favorable global cues is driving markets higher. Anxiety in global markets over North Korea has tapered off," Gautam Duggad, Head- Research, Motilal Oswal Institutional Equities said.

Meanwhile India has received around Rs 20,000 crore of inflow in domestic mutual funds in August 2017  an all-time high.

He believes while valuations are not euphoric, they are rich versus long period averages and therefore support from earnings pick up is critical to sustain these valuations, going forward.

He prefers largecaps to midcaps owing to valuation gaps. "Earnings visibility and valuation comfort are key determinants for preferred ideas," Duggad said.

2:55 pm Buzzing: Shares of Cadila Healthcare rose 2 percent intraday as it has received final approval from US Food and Drug Administration for Oseltamivir powder.

Neshar Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA, has received final approval from the USFDA to market Oseltamivir powder for oral suspension, 6mg/ml which is used in the treatment and prevention of influenza.

The powder will be produced at the Neshar Pharmaceuticals' manufacturing facility at located at St. Louis, MO, USA.

2:45 pm Utilities in focus: Shares of utility companies were in focus after a global research firm gave its views on the sector.

Credit Suisse said that overall power demand remains weak. Meanwhile, the month of August was better at 8 percent but it has not sustained in September. It also highlighted that the power market remained strongly in surplus, while all India PLF is still well below 60 percent. This figure could remain below 70 percent till FY22.

2:32 pm Market Check: Equity benchmarks continued to hold on to its gains and trade steady, with the Nifty firmly above 10,150-mark, while the Sensex was nearing 32,500-mark.

The Sensex was up 196.18 points at 32468.79, while the Nifty was up 78.15 points at 10163.55. The market breadth was positive as 1570 shares advanced against a decline of 932 shares, while 136 shares were unchanged.

2:10 pm Rupee view: The rupee is expected to remain range bound and average at 64.3 against the US dollar in the current financial year and is likely to be lower at 65.4 in 2018-19, says a UBS report.

According to the global financial services major, it has been among the better performing currencies in the emerging markets and has appreciated 6 per cent so far this year, but there are few triggers left for a sharp rally of the rupee from its current level.

UBS' forex strategist Rohit Arora sees the rupee (as against the US dollar) at 64 with upside risks over the next three months.

1:50 pm Order win: Punj Lloyd announced that it has bagged Rs 120 crore contract from the government for the supply of full-body truck scanners.

"Punj Lloyd has won a prestigious order worth Rs 120 crore for the supply and commission of five full body truck scanners (FBTS) from the Ministry of Home Affairs," the conglomerate said.

The FBTS can locate hidden arms, ammunition, explosives, detonators and IEDs. The scanner can also detect fake currency and narcotics.

1:30 pm Sectoral indices: All sectoral indices barring Pharma traded in green, with Auto leading the charge (up 1.2 percent).

Nifty Bank, Metal, FMCG and IT indices gained more than 0.6 percent while Pharma fell 0.9 percent.

1:22 pm Market Check: Equity benchmarks maintained morning uptrend, following rally in global peers on easing on North Korea tensions. Investors looked for cues from two-day Federal Reserve meeting that will begin on Tuesday.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 199.05 points at 32471.66 and the 50-share NSE Nifty gained 76.25 points at 10,161.65. About two shares advanced for every share falling on the BSE.

Dixon Technologies hit an intraday high of Rs 2,999, showing a 70 percent rally over its issue price of Rs 1,766.

1:10 pm Buzzing: Crompton Greaves Consumer Electrical shares rallied more than 5 percent intraday as the stock could be rerated on management's growth strategy.

While maintaining its buy call with a target price of Rs 270, CLSA feels the stock could rerate as investor confidence increases towards management's growth strategy.

It expects pumps business to post 16 percent revenue CAGR over FY17-19 as agricultural pumps is a large opportunity.

The company has been increasing focus on agricultural pumps as a growth area, it said.

Focus on go-to-market capability & orders from Energy Efficiency Services will support growth, it added.

12:55 pm ICICI Pru in focus: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company is among top picks in the sector, CLSA said while maintaining its buy call with a target price of Rs 560 per share.

The research house sees a RoEV (return on embedded value) of 17-19 percent in FY18-20.

The life insurance company has return on embedded value at 16.5 percent for the year ended March 2017, increased from 15.5 percent in FY16 and 15.4 percent in FY15.

It has maintained its second position in terms of market share (9.2 percent) in FY17.

ICICI Prudential is well capitalised with a solvency ratio of 290 percent, it said, adding cut in dividend payout would improve embedded value growth.

12:42 pm Europe trade: European markets opened higher, as global investors returned to perceived riskier assets amid cooling geopolitical tensions.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 was up by around 0.41 percent shortly after the opening bell, with almost all sectors and major bourses in positive territory.

After a dip in risk appetite towards the end of last week, Asian shares bounced back to hit decade highs on Monday, with South Korea's benchmark leading the gains, brushing aside concerns of escalating tensions in the Korean Peninsula.

12:35 pm Management interview: Dixon Technologies manufactures products in consumer durables, lighting and mobile phone market.

"The company is present across different verticals and we provide complete solutions, we are in consumer electronics, in home appliances, in the segment of mobile phone manufacturing and lighting," Sunil Vachani, Promoter & Chairman said in an interview to CNBC-TV18.

Across these verticals, the company does have anchor customers with whom it has deep relationships. It values relationships with anchor customers, he added.

Penetration level in India in washing machine segment is as low as 6 percent level, LED televisions penetration level is as low as 11-12 percent, said Vachani.

India is going to be the largest market for smartphones in the next three years, he further mentioned.

12:25 pm Tax uniformity on petroleum products: Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said he has requested the Ministry of Finance to bring petroleum products under the ambit of Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the interest of consumers.

Justifying the move, he said there has to be a "uniform tax mechanism" all over the country.

"This is the proposal of the Ministry of Petroleum. We have appealed to all the states and finance ministry (to bring petroleum items under GST). Looking into the consumer interest, there must be tax rationalisation. GST is a well thought mechanism by the Government of India and the states, they developed the GST Council...

"There are two kinds of taxes (on petroleum products). One is the central excise and the other one is state VAT. That is the reason we are expecting uniform tax mechanism from the industry point of view," Pradhan told PTI.

12:20 pm Tower deal: Negotiations are now in the final stages for the sale of a controlling stake in telecom tower giant which will be created by merging Bharti Infratel and Indus Towers, according to a report by CNBC-TV18.

Bharti Infratel is promoted by Bharti Airtel, while Indus Towers is a joint-venture between Vodafone, Bharti Airtel and Idea.

Private equity firm KKR, CPP Investment Board (CPPIB), Bharti Airtel, Bharti Infratel, Vodafone and Idea, among others are locked in negotiations which are now in the advance stages.

Bharti Infratel and Indus Tower combined will likely be bought by KKR and CPPIB. However, Idea and Vodafone do not want to cede their stake in the venture.

Bharti Airtel, Vodafone and Idea are likely to hold onto a minority stake, while KKR-CPPIB could be the majority controlling stakeholders of this venture.

12:09 pm Market Check: The Nifty50 as well as Midcap index continued to trade near record highs in noon, following upside in Asian peers ahead of monetary policy cues from Federal Reserve meeting that will begin on Tuesday.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 203.86 points at 32,476.47 and the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 79.30 points to 10,164.70.

About two shares advanced for every share falling on the BSE.

L&T, Bharti Infratel, IndusInd Bank and Bajaj Auto were top gainers with 2-3 percent rally while Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy's Labs and Aurobindo Pharma fell 0.5-1.5 percent.

11:55 am Buzzing: Shares of Punj Lloyd gained nearly 9 percent intraday as it has won order worth Rs 120 crore.

The company has won a prestigious order worth Rs 120 crore for the supply and commission of five full body truck scanners (FBTS) from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The company will become first private sector company in India to install these X-ray based FBTS at the country's borders, which can detect concealed arms, ammunition, explosives, detonators, IEDs, narcotics, and fake currency.

11:40 am Current account deficit: India's current account deficit is expected to widen to 1.5 percent of GDP in 2017, from 0.6 percent in 2016, but net capital flows are expected to more than fund this deficit, says a Nomura report.

The Japanese financial services major said that the wider current account deficit in the second quarter and still- elevated trade deficit so far in July-August suggest that the current account deficit is set to widen sharply this year. Nomura expects current account deficit likely at 1.5 percent of GDP in 2017 but noted that funding will not be a constraint.

The current account deficit increased to USD 14.3 billion, or 2.4 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in the April-June quarter of this year. On a sequential basis, the CAD widened from USD 3.4 billion or 0.6 percent of GDP in the January-March quarter.

11:25 am Buzzing: Shares of Nucleus Software Exports advanced 7.7 percent intraday as it has bagged order from South African company.

Atlas Finance, a micro-finance company in South Africa, has chosen Nucleus lending analytics to help them leverage the insights provided by their data to make faster, more informed lending decisions.

Nucleus lending analytics is a powerful and user-friendly solution enabling informed decision making through data visualization and business insight generation.

11:15 am 52-week highs: Tracking the momentum, over 90 stocks on the NSE hit fresh 52-week highs.

As much as 93 stocks on the NSE hit fresh 52-week highs which include names like Page Industries, Honeywell Auto, Britannia Industries, Bajaj Auto, Dixon Technologies, HDFC Bank, L&T, Bata India, TVS Motors, JBM Auto, HEG, and Gillette India among others.

11:00 am Tata Motors above Rs 400: Bank of America Merrill Lynch has maintained its buy rating on the stock, with a target price of Rs 515 as it believes new launches and change in hedging policy will aid second half of FY18.

It expects Chinese imports to improve which should aid pricing and profits.

FY18 isn't a true measure of earnings capability, it said, adding production ramp-up would be quicker in the coming months.

10:57 am Management Interview: Carbon and graphite product manufacturing company, HEG has had a dream run with the stock up nearly 350 percent in the last one year.

The price increase has been there since January 2017. Some of the players were able to encash the price increase immediately but we generally book our orders at least a year in advance, Raju Rustogi, CFO said in an interview to CNBC-TV18.

He expects to see increase in volumes and prices this year by about 40 percent, in FY18, over last year.

EBITDA margins would be much healthier than what it has been in FY17, said Rustogi.

10:54 am Rupee higher: The rupee appreciated by 7 paise to 64.01 against the US dollar today on selling of the greenback by banks and exporters.

The dollar's slide against some currencies overseas ahead of the Fedral Reserve's meet beginning tomorrow and a stronger opening of domestic equities took the rupee high.

On Friday, the rupee had gained 4 paise to end at 64.08 against the US dollar.

10:50 am Bharti Airtel in focus: Proxy advisory firm Stakeholders Empowerment Services (SES) has advised Bharti Airtels shareholders to reject the companys proposal to acquire Telenor India when it comes up for voting on Tuesday, according to a report from The Economic Times.

10:40 am Resignation: Infosys Senior Vice President Sanjay Rajagopalan has resigned from his post, a month after Vishal Sikka stepped down as the company's MD and CEO. In his Linked In profile, Rajagopalan described himself as a "free man."

He also mentioned that he was employed with Infosys from August 2014 to September 2017, a duration of three years and two months. It was widely anticipated that Rajagopalan would quit after Sikka put down his papers. Sikka had brought some of his former SAP colleagues to Infosys to help him implement his new initiatives. One among them was Rajagopalan, in October 2014.

10:35 am Buzzing: Petronet LNG gained around 2 percent as investors reacted to target price upgrade on the stock.

Jefferies placed its bet on the stock and maintained its buy call. It also raised its target price to Rs 280, implying 21 percent upside as of Fridays closing price.

The global research firm said that the EPS could grow at a CAGR of 13 percent over FY17-21, while the utilization from its Kochi unit may rise to 11/29/39 percent in FY19/20/21.

The stock was in the news recently after it announced that it will partner with Japan's Mitsubishi and Sojitz Corp to set up Sri Lanka's first liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal near Colombo. "Petronet will be the leader of the joint venture with the largest shareholding," the management had told reporters after the company's annual general meeting.

Shares of Alkem Laboratories tumbled 3.6 percent intraday as it has received inspection report from USFDA.

The company has received the inspection report from USFDA which contains two 483 observations.

USFDA had conducted an inspection at the company's manufacturing facility located at Baddi, India from September 11-15, 2017.

The company shall put together a detailed response with adequate corrective and preventive measures to address the USFDA observations and the same is proposed to be filed within the timeline stipulated by USFDA.

10:15 am Market Check: Equity benchmarks remained strong in morning, tracking positive global cues as investors anticipated clues on the direction of monetary policy from central banks later in the week.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 195.81 points at 32,468.42 and the 50-share NSE Nifty gained 73.80 points at 10,159.20.

About three shares advanced for every share falling on the BSE.

10:05 am Tepid debut: Shares of Bharat Road Network had a tepid listing as in the opening tick, the scrip traded flat against the higher end of the price band of Rs 205.

Soon, the stock saw sharp swings, as it fell over a percent in the first few minutes, but has now gained around 4 percent.

The Rs 600-crore IPO of Bharat Road Network, a SREI Infrastructure Finance company, was oversubscribed 1.81 times.

10:00 am Solid listing: Consumer electronics manufacturer Dixon Technologies made a strong debut on bourses Monday as the stock has opened at Rs 2,725, up 54 percent over its issue price of Rs 1,766.

The share price touched a high of Rs 2,899 in early trade, up as much as 64 percent over IPO price. It traded with volumes of 14 lakh shares at 10:05 hours IST.

It deserved such a stellar listing, especially after the solid oversubscription and hefty grey market premium.

9:50 am Pre-opening: Dixon Technologies settled at Rs 2,725 in pre-opening trade, up 54 percent over its issue price of Rs 1,766 on the National Stock Exchange.

Bharat Road Network settled at its issue price level of Rs 205 in pre-opening trade.

Also read - Time to make your portfolio electric, and bullet proof; 20 stocks to bet on

9:37 am USFDA nod: Shares of Laurus Labs added 2 percent as it has received the EIR from USFDA.

The company has received the establishment inspection report (EIR) from US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Finished Dosage Formulations (FDF) and Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients (API's) manufacturing plant, Unit 2, located at Achutapuram, Vishakhapatnam, for the inspection completed in May 2017.

It has also completed the BGV Hamburg (German Regulatory Authority) inspection of Unit 2 (FDF) and WHO inspection of Units 1 and 3 located at Parawada, Visakhapatnam, which was inspected during this month.

9:29 am FII View: Inderjeet Bhatia of Macquarie said domestic liquidity is a sign of financialisation of savings but also the lack of options to invest in productive enterprises.

A significant primary market pipeline along with large government issuances will challenge market valuations, according to him.

"Our stock selection is entirely bottom-up based either on the maintaining of trend growth or on significant earnings upgrades over consensus," he said.

The brokerage house moved from an overweight stance on IT from underweight earlier, with HCL Tech as a top pick, he said.

He added that the house continued its overweight stance on private banks, infra, materials and autos and underweight on pharma, telecom, NBFCs and PSU banks.

"Other top picks include HUL, Titan, L&T, Eicher Motors, HDFC Bank, Crompton, Prestige and NCC," Bhatia said.

9:15 am Market Check: Equity benchmarks started off the week on a strong note as the Nifty50 and Midcap opened at fresh record highs while the Nifty Bank soared over 25,000 level, tracking global cues.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 175.72 points at 32,448.33 and the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 63.20 points to 10,148.60.

L&T, Bharti Infratel, HDFC Bank and Tata Motors were leading contributors to Nifty's gains. Sun Pharma, Adani Ports, Dr Reddy's Labs and ONGC were only losers among Nifty50 stocks.

About four shares advanced for every share falling on the BSE.

Nifty Midcap was up 0.8 percent. Among midcaps, Goa Carbon, Bombay Dyeing, Graphite India, HEG, Speciality Restaurants, Jubilant Foodworks, Cadila Healthcare, ICICI Prudential and TVS Electronics gained up to 10 percent.

Asian shares gained as investors anticipated clues on the direction of monetary policy from central banks later in the week.

South Korea's benchmark Kospi index rose 1.07 percent. The S&P/ASX 200 tacked on 0.55 percent. The Hang Seng Index rose 1.08 percent. On the mainland, the Shanghai Composite rose 0.25 percent.

Japan markets are closed for a public holiday.
The Nifty, which opened with a gap on the higher side on Monday, created history in opening tick as the index surpassed its previous record high of 10,137.

It witnessed sustained buying interest from bulls throughout the trading session, which took the index to its fresh all-time high of 10,171.70 and made a bullish candle on the daily candlestick charts.

In the opening tick, the index made a new record lifetime high of 10,171. It surpassed its previous lifetime high of 10,138 and registered a highest daily close of above 10,150.

Volatility has also come down, which is supporting the upside in the market. India VIX fell down by 2.03 percent to 11.44 and lower volatility is supporting the bullish bias of the market.

It was a show of strength from the bulls as all cylinders of the market fired at the same time. The rally was broad-based as the smallcap index hit fresh record highs and the midcap index came within kissing distance of hitting fresh record highs.

The next important question in front of traders is  will the rally continue? Well, as long as the Nifty trades above 10,137-10,171, the bulls will keep their hold on D-Street. However, a slip below 10,043 could be perceived as the first sign of weakness.

If the Nifty consistently trades above 10,137 -10,171, the rally is likely to stretch towards 10,300 to 10,400. Investors are advised to keep a trailing stop loss below 10,043 for all long positions, suggest experts.

Bulls continued with their saga of hitting new lifetime highs as Nifty witnessed a small bull candle after a gap-up opening. However, in the larger scheme of things this rally is only heading towards making a top before unleashing a bigger correction, Mazhar Mohammad, Chief Strategist  Technical Research & Trading Advisory, Chartviewindia.in told Moneycontrol.

However, at this point in time, short term charts are not displaying any weakness and the trade can be on the long side for the time being till signs of reversal are visible.

In the immediate short-term, as long as Nifty trades above 10,171, momentum is likely to continue which may rise the chances of bigger targets close to 10,450 kinds of levels and breach 10043 can be an initial sign of weakness, said Mohammad.

He added that it will be prudent on the part of traders to maintain a stop below 10,043 levels and trim their existing longs as we proceed into temporary strength.

We have collated the top ten data points to help you spot profitable trade:

Key Support & Resistance Level for Nifty:

The Nifty closed at 10,153.1 on Monday. According to Pivot charts, the key support level for Nifty is placed at 10,132.37, followed by 10,111.63. If the index starts to move higher, key resistance levels to watch out are 10,172.77, followed by 10,192.43.

Nifty Bank:

The Nifty Bank closed at 25,046.9 on Monday. The important Pivot level which will act as crucial support for the index is placed at 24,957.37 followed by 24,867.83. On the upside, the key resistance level is 25,120.87, followed by 25,194.83.

Call Options Data:

Maximum Call open interest (OI) of 53.99 lakh contracts stands at strike price 10,200 which will act as a crucial resistance level for the index in September series, followed by 10,100 which now holds 31.62 lakh contracts in open interest and 10,300 which has accumulated 29.78 lakh contracts in OI.

Call Writing was seen at strike prices 10,200 (5.14 lakh contracts added), followed by 10,300 (4.10 lakh contracts were added) and 10,400, which saw the addition of 0.93 lakh contracts.

Meanwhile, Call unwinding was seen at strike prices 10,100 (11.76 lakh contracts shed), 10,000 (5.26 lakh contracts shed), and 9,900 (1.88 lakh contracts shed).

Put Options Data:

Maximum Put OI of 61.79 lakh contracts was seen at strike price 10,000 which will act as a crucial base for the index in September series followed by 9,900 which has accumulated 53.52 lakh contracts in open interest, and 10,100 which now holds 40.81 lakh contracts in open interest.

Put Writing was seen at the strike price of 10,200 (10.50 lakh contracts added), followed by 10,000, which saw an addition of 7.03 lakh contracts and 10,100 (2.72 lakh contracts added).

Meanwhile, Put unwinding was seen at strike prices 9,900, which shed 10.98 lakh contracts, followed by 9,800, which saw the shedding of 7.97 lakh contracts and 9,700, which shed 5.87 lakh contracts.

FII & DII Data:

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth Rs 96.92 crore, compared to domestic institutional investors (DIIs), who bought shares worth Rs 775.61 crore in the Indian equity market on Monday.

Stocks with high delivery percentage:

High delivery percentage suggests that investors are accepting the delivery of the stock, which means that investors are bullish on the stock.

109 stocks saw Long Buildup:

52 stocks saw Short Covering:

A decrease in open interest along with an increase in price mostly indicates short covering.

16 stocks saw Long Unwinding:

Long Unwinding happens when there is a decrease in OI as well as in price.

34 stocks saw Short Buildup

An increase in open interest along with a decrease in price mostly indicates short positions being built up.
Moneycontrol's Uttaresh talks to Rakshita Madan on the key triggers to look forward to ahead of today's trading.

Nifty has been consolidating for the past 4 sessions in a narrow range. It got support from its 5-DEMA on Friday but it has been facing resistance above 10,100. But, chances are that we may register a breakout above 10,137 but will the breakout sustain that is something which we will have to find out.

Global cues look supportive so far. Oil holds near five-month high in most bullish week since July. Dollar falls after weak US retail sales; focus on FOMC. Gold weighed down by prospects of ECB, Fed tightening.

India's Forex Reserves  $400 billion and counting. India's Forex reserves have grown over 71 times in the last twenty-six years and is enough to pay for all its imports for the coming ten months.

SEBI Board will be meeting today. Reports suggest they could discuss hiring of a chief economist to strengthen research capabilities. Suspected shell cos could also be on agenda.

US ponders for a solution as North Korea crisis worsens; Calls on nations to address issue of North Korea nuclear tests

FPIs pull out Rs. 3,000 cr from stocks in September so far

BSE to move stocks of 10 firms to restricted trading segment

The stocks to be moved are Asahi Infrastructure & Projects, Bansisons Tea Industries, Delma Infrastructure, Dune Mercantile, Educomp Solutions, Filtron Engineers, Gammon India, Noble Explochem, Rei Agro and Relson India.

HPCL Prepares Rs 7,110 Crore Biz Growth Investment Plans In FY18

US FDA makes 3 observations after inspecting Dr. Reddy's plant in the UK

Zydus Nesher Pharma gets USFDA nod to market influenza drug

Pharma stocks will be in focus: No mid-term revision of stent prices before February 2018: NPPA.
crude_oil_0709_356_77020118

Hurricane Harvey had a huge impact on the US refining capacity and the downstream petrochemical industry. With about 16 percent of refining capacity still shut down and expected to start functioning only after a hiatus, GRM (gross refining margin) is expected to remain high in near future. Indian petrochemical prices have recently firmed up which could impact plastic processing industries. In the meantime, stocks of the petrochemical manufacturers have benefitted from the tightness in the market.

Harvey impact and elevated GRM

IHS Markit estimates that about 60 percent of US ethylene capacity was hit by Hurricane Harvey. Current estimates suggest that about 54 percent (16.2mmtpa) of the total US ethylene capacity is still off the market. Within the refinery space, 60 percent of capacity hit by Harvey is still offline which is about 16 percent of US refining capacity.

Industry participants suggest that it might take another month or so for the pre-Harvey capacity to be fully operational.

For the time being regional GRM remains elevated. Singapore GRM is at 9.3 USD/ bbl, up 27 percent from the July numbers. Petrochemical prices have also surged with a lag. For instance, SE Asia polyproplene prices are up by about 5 percent.

Petrochemical market in India: Varied import dependence

While looking at some of the oil derivatives which were impacted by Hurricane Harvey, it may be pertinent to look at the demand-supply gap. In case of ethylene, India is nearly self-sufficient. In fact, for this product it is imperative to have it locally available as the transportation cost is high and require additional safety norms due to its inflammability.

In case of petrochemicals, as per the data from CPM ( Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturers Association, India), net imports as a percentage of consumption is higher for LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene), PVC, and HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) at 70 percent, 50 percent and 22 percent, respectively. In case of Polypropylene and Poly Styrene, India is nearly self-sufficient.

Though there is a variance across product categories as far as supply demand dynamics in India are concerned, price increase for the petrochemicals have been felt across the board due to the global dynamics.

Polymer prices up by 5-7 percent

Major petrochemical players in India raised their petrochemical prices by 5-7 percent in last two weeks. Interestingly, in the June quarter, some key refineries were shut down for a considerable period leading to a tight supply situation resulting in hardening of petrochemical prices. As these refineries are back to optimum operational capacity, some easing or at least stabilization of petrochemical prices was expected.

Pricing trend for polymers (Rs/MT) for Ahmedabad grade

Source: RIL

However, Hurricane Harvey has changed the pricing dynamics for current quarter and prices are expected to remain elevated till the US oil downstream industry is back to pre-Harvey stage.

Petrochemical manufacturers gained

Not surprisingly, in last one month, petrochemical manufacturers of the country benefitted from the improved product spread. DCW has gained the most as it is not only a key manufacturer for PVC but also for caustic soda which is also one of the chemicals most impacted by the hurricane.

Price performance for the key chemical manufacturers

Source: Capitaline

Down stream plastic processing industry earnings

Downstream plastic processing industry have been resilient so far. Interestingly, raw material (largely petrochemicals) constitute a large proportion in terms of sales (about 58 percent). Hence, any sustained increase in petrochemical prices would weigh on earnings.

Price performance for the key plastic manufacturers

Source: Capitaline

Our back-of-the-envelope calculation suggests that 5 percent increase in raw material costs can impact the earnings of plastic processing industry by 20-25 percent during a given time period. Recent price hikes in petrochemicals, even if sustained for a month, can weigh on the annual earnings of plastic processing companies by 3-4 percent.

Given this context, stocks of plastic processing industry can adversely react if US oil downstream industry doesnt get operational soon. Further, recent price hikes from the Indian petrochemical manufacturers weighs on the near term operational profitability of the plastic processors.

Follow @anubhavsays

For more research articles, visit our Moneycontrol Research Page.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Dont be surprised if you see Patanjali-branded garments the next time you visit Shoppers Stop or Lifestyle. After making its presence felt in the FMCG space, where it crossed a turnover of Rs 10,000 crore in a fairly short span of time, Patanjali is now eyeing the textile market.

Indias FMCG heavyweights such as HUL, Dabur, and Emami, among others, bore the brunt of the so-called Patanjali wave, apparent from their falling market share and increased spending on advertisements. With branded apparel next on Patanjalis radar, what lies in store for its textile peers?

Recently, Patanjali Ayurved announced its plans to launch its clothing line across four categories (knit wear, woven wear, denims, ethnic wear) in the summer of 2018. The garments, manufactured by adopting a combination of its own processes and outsourcing, will span menswear, womenswear, and childrenswear. Retailing of products would be undertaken through company-owned stores and franchise outlets.

Preliminary impressions of the ambitious plan suggest that textile companies in the home textile, technical textile, and core yarn/fabric manufacturing may not face issues owing to the move.

Since Patanjali is expected to focus more on the domestic market, apparel firms, which derive a significant percentage of their revenue from exports, will not have much to worry about, at least initially. Nonetheless, the possibility of international markets being explored by the Haridwar-headquartered company cannot be ruled out in the long-run.

Furthermore, the swadeshi brand, prima facie, will aim to gain market share in the mid to low end of the market by selling its products at competitive price points. Therefore, premium and high-end apparel players, who have a large presence in metros, are unlikely to be its direct competitors.

While Patanjali will affect some of the large players (since it has set a top-line target of Rs 5,000 crore in the first year itself), the unorganised textile manufacturers, who are already reeling under GST-induced pressure, would be the worst hit.

Stiff price competition could force organised players to keep their margins in check too, contrary to our expectation of their margins expanding by virtue of the industry's transition from unorganised units to the organised ones.

Additionally, GST will be advantageous to Baba Ramdevs brand because rates on apparel are more or less tax neutral (at 12 percent for those costing Rs 1,000 or more, at 5 percent on those sold below Rs 1,000) vis-a-vis the pre-GST tax structure.

A deeper analytical drilldown of the announcement indicates that manufacturers/dealers, who are predominantly present in the entry level to moderate-tier branded/unbranded garments (a segment where pricing plays a pivotal role in influencing demand), will face the biggest challenge. However, in the beginning, the real impact of Patanjali's entry will be visible in India's tier 3, semi-urban, and rural areas.

Patanjali's success in the textile domain is not necessarily guaranteed on similar lines as witnessed in the FMCG sector. Nevertheless, given the disruptions that the company has caused so far in the consumer staples realm, it would be a huge mistake for the competition to be complacent.
Electricity, gas, water supply growth demonstrate an encouraging recovery by 4.4 percent.

live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

National Aluminium Company (Nalco) is betting big on renewable energy resources to meet its rising power requirements.

Nalco has commissioned its wind power plants with 50 MW and 50.4 MW capacity in Rajasthan and Maharastra, respectively, at a cost of Rs 669 crore. The company plans to set up another wind power plant of 50 MW capacity and looking at suitable location in the country.

Techno-commercial bids for selection of wind power developer were opened in last December and price bid is in the process of being opened, the company said in its annual report.

The company also plans to set up a 20 MW solar power plant in Madhya Pradesh. The project is registered with MPNRED (Madhya Pradesh New & Renewable Energy Department) and 55.62 Ha land has been transferred to the department in November, 2016.

Application for grid connectivity permission was also submitted to Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company. The company has issued notice inviting tender (NIT) for selection of developer for EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) for 50 MW solar power project at a suitable location in India.

It has placed an order to commission 50 KWp rooftop solar power plant at Nalco Research and Technology Centre in Bhubaneswar with a total project cost of Rs 37.30 lakh.

Nalco has also signed an MoU with NTPC to form a joint venture company, Gajamara Power Project for establishment of 3X800 MW coal based power plant at Gajamara at Dhenkanal in Odisha for supplying power to smelter expansion projects, the company said.

In FY17, the company has made the capital expenditure of Rs 876.09 crore, which includes Rs 38.47 crore towards equity contribution to joint venture companies.

Among the major expansion plans, the company is in the process of setting up 5th stream in its existing alumina refinery, which will add 1.0 million tonnes per year (MTPY) to its existing capacity of 2.275 MTPY, at a capital expenditure of Rs 5,540 crore in Odisha.

"We are adding 1.0 MTPY to its existing capacity of 2.275 MTPY, at a capital expenditure of Rs 5,540 crore based on improved medium pressure digestion technology of RTAIL (Rio Tinto Alcan International Ltd). The company has obtained major statutory clearances like environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment & Forests and Climate Change(MoEF and CC) and Consent to Establish (CTE) from Odisha State Pollution Control Board. Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (India) has been appointed as EPCM consultant for the project," the report said.

The coal ministry has allotted Utkal D and E Coal blocks to the company, which is expected to help in raw material securitisation to the company.

The company also said that Pottangi Bauxite mines with 75 million tonnes capacity has been reserved by the government in favour of the company. The Odisha government had issued the terms and conditions for issuance of mining lease in favour of Nalco in July last year and activities are undertaken for complying with various conditions to obtain the mining lease, it said.
20:54 Some Rohingyas have been found with links to Pakistans ISI, the Islamic State terror group and extremist outfits targeting India, the Centre said today, while making it clear that it was bound to take action against the illegal migrants as per the law.

20:46 The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has managed to save bank loans worth Rs 300,000 crore to the road sector from turning into non-performing assets (NPAs), Union Minister for

Road Transport, Highways and Shipping Nitin Gadkari said today.

20:42 US President Donald Trump today warned that "bureaucracy" is stopping the United Nations from realizing its potential.

20:39 The big police crackdown on Ryan International School is continuing and there seems to be no end to troubles of its management and owners. The Financial Express reported that Gurugrams Bhondsi branch of the school will remain closed till Friday. The classes will only resume on September 25, i.e Monday.

20:08 Concerned about slowdown in the economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and other top officials tomorrow to take stock of the situation and discuss remedial measures to bolster growth.

20:02 An RSS activist has filed a complaint in a magistrate court here against Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi and CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for allegedly linking the organisation to the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh.

19:57 Mytrah Group, a city-based renewable power producer, on Monday said it has raised Rs 1,800 crore from Piramal Groups financial services companies.

19:47 Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today disapproved of Rahul Gandhis remark that dynasties are a fact of life in India, saying he is personally against such politics which was generated by the Congress.

19:25 Private equity inflows into the realty space may set a new milestone and exceed USD 4 billion this year, a report by Knight Frank said.

Most of this investments are into pre-leased office and retail assets, a major shift from residential sector, showing the low risk appetite of investors, the report said, adding over that 80 percent of PE capital so far this year are from long-term sovereign and pension funds.

19:18 Capital markets regulator Sebi today barred Midas Touch Assets and Securities Ltd and 5 individuals from the securities market and directed them to refund money collected illegally from the public.

19:16 Hotel Leelaventure today said three directors, including two nominees of JM Financial Asset Reconstruction Company, have resigned from its board.

19:05 The US Navy dismissed two senior officers today after a series of collisions involving Seventh Fleet warships in Asia, citing a loss of confidence in their ability to command.

18:40 India could be forced to cut spending on key infrastructure such as railways and highways as lower-than-expected tax collections and sluggish growth have upset the governments budget calculations, two finance ministry officials told Reuters.

18:31 The Delhi High Court today called for the trial court records of a suit filed against former President Pranab Mukherjee seeking deletion of some portions of his 2016 book for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments.

18:06 Shiv Sena and BJP in Maharashtra may part ways soon. Speaking to media after his partys meet today, senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut said the party will soon take a decision on its alliance with the BJP.

17:57 The alleged al-Qaeda operative arrested earlier today by Delhi Police was sent to police custody till September end by a city court after the investigators said he was required to be quizzed to unearth aspects relating to recruitment of youths for terror activities in West Bengal, Jharkhand and Bihar.

17:54 Fashion is one of the biggest categories which will drive more than 60 per cent of all sales during the Big Billion Days (BBD) sale at Flipkart, says an official from the e-commerce platform. The platform expects a 17-time jump in business in the fashion segment on the opening day of Big Billion Days (BBD) compared to non-sale days.

17:52 Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) today allowed Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) to raise debt capital by issuing debt securities.

17:50 The Madras High Court today directed the election commission to conduct the by-election to RK Nagar assembly constituency here, lying vacant following the demise of Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa, preferably by December 31.

17:36 The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has issued more visas to Pakistanis in its first two years compared to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government during its last two years, the Financial Express reported.

17:31 Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today expressed hope that digital payment is going to pick up momentum with more advanced technology coming into the market.

17:24 Uttar Pradesh government has come out with a slew of guidelines for peaceful and smooth celebrations of Durga Puja, Dussehra and Muharram that are about a fortnight away, Hindustan Times reported.

The guidelines include a ban on use of disc jockeys (DJs) during the celebrations, restriction on use of loudspeakers, stipulation of procession routes and heights of Durga idols and tazias that are carried in processions during Muharram.

17:22 Pressure grew on Myanmar today as a rights group urged world leaders to impose sanctions on its military, which is accused of driving out more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims in an orchestrated ethnic cleansing campaign, AFP reported.

17:20 The Supreme Court will take a call on the central governments plans to deport Rohingya Muslims, who entered the country illegally, home minister Rajnath Singh said today.

17:19 Indias home ministry said today that it would confidentially share intelligence information with the Supreme Court showing Rohingya links with Pakistan-based militants, in a bid to get legal clearance for plans to deport 40,000 Rohingya Muslims.

17:16 Northrop Grumman Corp. has agreed to buy Orbital ATK Inc. for $7.8 billion, bolstering the missile and space businesses of one of the U.S.s largest defense contractors, Bloomberg reported.

17:12 The actual number of farmers who are expected to benefit from the Maharashtra governments loan waiver is likely to be less than the earlier estimate of 89 lakh, said officials of the state cooperation department.

17:11 The more sanctions the United States and its allies impose on North Korea, the faster it will move to complete its nuclear plans, the reclusive nations official KCNA news agency said today, citing a foreign ministry spokesman.

17:09 The Rs 5,700-crore public issue ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company has been subscribed 97 percent on second day.

The IPO has received bids for 6 crore equity shares against issue size of 6.16 crore shares (excluding anchor investors' portion).

17.07 Pakistani troops fired at and shelled Jammu districts Arnia sector for the sixth successive day, prompting the Border Security Force (BSF) to fire back, a senior BSF officer said.

16.31 BSP chief Mayawati today said that the current situation in India was "worse than Emergency" with central government agencies being "let loose" on opposition leaders.

16.28 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today presented a White Paper on completion of six months of his government. Speaking to media, the CM also slammed the previous Akhilesh Yadav government in the state.

16.20 The second man arrested by police over the Parsons Green terrorism attack has been named as Yahyah Farroukh, The Guardian reported.

15:59 The Delhi Police's Special Cell today arrested Subhan Haq, a suspected al-Qaeda operative.

15:53 TN governor will be meeting the president at 4.30 pm today, reports CNN News18.

15:48 The Union Home Ministry on Monday submitted its affidavit in the Supreme Court on the deportation of Rohingya immigrants to Myanmar and has called them a security threat to India. The government has also stated that as per law, it is completely illegal for Rohingya immigrants to stay in India and has submitted that their continuance in India would have serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats, says News18.com.

15:40 The actual number of farmers who are expected to benefit from the Maharashtra government's loan waiver is likely to be less than the earlier estimate of 89 lakh, said officials of the state cooperation department, reports PTI.

15:28 The Law Ministry has given its concurrence to a draft bill that will give powers to the government to confiscate property of economic offenders and defaulters who flee India, albeit with a new provision, reports PTI. It wants a "Saving Clause" to be incorporated in the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2017 before it is introduced in the Lok Sabha in the ensuing winter session of Parliament.

15:26 Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and Ford Motor Company inked a pact to explore a strategic alliance covering areas like product development, electric vehicles and distribution in India and abroad, reports PTI. Under the agreement, teams from both companies will collaborate and work together for up to three years to leverage benefits of Ford's global reach and expertise and Mahindra's scale in India. The companies said their alliance would look at areas of potential cooperation including, "mobility programmes, connected vehicle projects, electrification and product development".

15:23 The Supreme Court will take a call on the Centres plans to deport Rohingya Muslims, who entered the country "illegally", Home Minister Rajnath Singh said. "An affidavit has been filed. Whatever decision is to be taken, it will be taken by the court," he told PTI. The Centre today told the apex court that the Rohingya Muslims were "illegal" immigrants in the country and that their continuous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

15:19 Glenmark Pharmaceuticals plans to file close to 25 product applications annually over the next five years, reports PTI. The Mumbai-based firm also expects to launch nearly 20 products annually. "We expect to file 20-25 abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) each year over the next five years and launch 10-20 products annually," Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Chairman and MD Glenn Saldanha said in the company's FY17 annual report.

15:05 Eighteen rebel AIADMK MLAs that were disqualified by Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal amid the power tussle between Chief Minister K Palaniswami and sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran will approach the court against the disqualification even as the rebels dubbed the move as a "murder of democracy", reports PTI.

14:50 HSBC, one of Britains Big Four banks, expects the Bank of England to raise interest rates twice over the coming 12 months, having previously seen rates staying at their record lows until the end of 2018, reports Reuters. The bank expects rates to be lifted by 25bps in November and then again in May 2018, taking Britains benchmark interest rate to 0.75%.

14:46 Pakistan is ready with a tough diplomatic policy if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabads major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, The Express Tribune reported. Pakistans new strategy comes after US President Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants. Islamabad has prepared a three-option toughest diplomatic policy, which includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

14:40 Air India plans to re-negotiate its agreements with vendors and suppliers to save operational costs of up to Rs 500 crore within the shortest possible time period, reports IANS. The ambitious short-term target to be achieved in 12-weeks has been set by the companys new Chairman and Managing Director, Rajiv Bansal.

14:37 An al-Qaeda operative was arrested by the Delhi Police today, reports CNN-News18. A Special Cell of the city police arrested the terrorist from Vikas Marg in the national capital. This comes a month after two men with suspected links to al-Qaeda were arrested in two separate cases ahead of Independence Day.

14:33 Motilal Oswal is bullish on aluminium major Hindalco Industries due to its strong business fundamentals and free cash flow generation. The managements' focus on deleveraging, high IRR projects and attractively-valued inorganic opportunities is another reason for its bullish stance. The research firm has reiterated its buy rating on the stock with a target price of Rs 310 per share.

14:27 The government expects disinvestment to pick up steam soon even as it may fall short for the prescribed target for the current fiscal, reports ET Now. The Finance Ministry expects completion of a few strategic sales by end of the year, it said, adding listing of general insurance companies will boost the governments kitty.

14:19 Increase in volume of digital transactions, widening of tax base and squeezed circulation of high denomination currency were the real measures of success of demonetisation, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said, adding: "Some circles have lack of understanding and measure success of demonetisation with only how much money reached banks."

14:14 The Tata Group plans to take legal action, regarding infringement of intellectual property rights, against a Kolkata-based businessman who started a company last month by the name of Tata Sons in London, reports Mint. Similarly, another businessman named Mohammad Irfan Yousaf from Pakistan recently started a company in the UK by the name of Tata Investments for 'buying and selling of real estate'.

13:46 The Centre is assessing the need for stimulus to boost the economy, in the face of the slowing growth in an economy hit hard by the transition effect of GST, and growing concerns over non-tax revenues, reports CNBC-TV18, citing unidentified government sources. However, the government seems to be constrained with a limited fiscal space, especially in the wake of lower earnings on the account of lower RBI dividend and spectrum receipts this year.

13:34 Tata Motors share rallied over 3% intraday Monday as global research house Bank of America Merrill Lynch feels new launches and change in hedging policy will aid second half of FY18. It has maintained its buy rating on the stock with a target price of Rs 515 per share.

13:32 ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company is among CLSAs top sectoral picks. The brokerage has maintained its buy call with a target price of Rs 560 per share.

13:30 Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) TS Krishnamurthy has pitched for state-funding of elections, and banning the use of funds by political parties for polls, as part of electoral reforms, reports PTI. He mooted creation of a national election fund to which companies and individuals can contribute. Krishnamurthy said originally he was not in favour of the state-funding of elections. If there is a deficiency, of course the Central government will have to make good, he said, adding that companies and individuals would prefer to contribute to such a fund, instead of the political parties, since they would get 100% tax exemption.

13:12 Jailed Dera Sacha Sauda chief's adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan tops the list of 43 persons 'wanted' by the Haryana Police in connection with incidents of violence that followed Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's conviction in a rape case, reports PTI. Earlier, a lookout notice was issued against Honeypreet Insan and Dera spokesman Aditya Insan, whose name also figures in the 'wanted' list.

13:05 The US military on Monday flew a pair of B-1B bombers and F-35 fighter jets in bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula, in a show of force against North Korea, South Koreas Defence Ministry told Reuters. The bombers flew from Guam and the fighters flew from Japan, joined by six South Korean fighter jets in the drill.

12:56 BJP President Amit Shah has provided an alibi for Maya Kodnani in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case. Shah deposed before Judge PB Desai, saying that Kodnani was not present at the site of the violence in which 11 people were killed. He added that Kodnani was alongside him at Sola Civil Hospital at the time of the incident. Kodnani has previously been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the Naroda Patiya riot case. Read more.

12:00 Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Maharashtra hopes to kick-start infrastructure projects entailing investment of Rs 1 lakh crore this year, reports PTI. "We hope to start works on projects worth Rs 1 lakh crore this year," Fadnavis stated without elaborating on specific projects. He said infrastructure projects worth Rs 5.96 lakh crore have been planned in Maharashtra, which has earned the state honours from the NITI Aayog for being the leader in infrastructure creation.

12:00 Good Afternoon Moneycontrol users. This blog will keep track of key global and local developments impacting business and markets through the day. Important local and global political developments will also find resonance here.

11:57 Police have arrested four persons in connection with the death of a renowned doctor, who fell into an open manhole while walking along a flooded street during torrential rains in Mumbai on August 29, reports PTI. The death of Dr Deepak Amrapurkar, a gastroenterologist who worked with Bombay Hospital here, had caused widespread outrage. Dadar police in central Mumbai arrested Siddhesh Bhelsekar, Rakesh Kadam, Nilesh Kadam and Dinesh Pawar, residents of a chawl in Parel area.

11:31 HDFC Life's mega initial public offering (IPO) is likely to get pushed to the third quarter (October-December) of the fiscal, reports The Times of India. The IPO is expected to be equivalent to a billion-dollar issue with HDFC selling a 9.57% stake and Standard Life offloading 5.43% in the company. HDFC Life MD Amitabh Chaudhry said that currently both the regulators -Sebi and IRDAI -are going through the draft red herring prospectus. The regulators had raised queries and the insurer had responded to them. With the end of the second quarter around the corner, the company might have to update its results.

11:26 China and Russia began naval drills near North Korea on Monday amid continuing tensions over the isolated states nuclear ambitions and ahead of a United Nations General Assembly meeting this week, where North Korea is likely to loom large, reports Reuters. The official Xinhua news agency said the joint exercises will take place between Peter the Great Bay, just outside of the Russian far eastern port of Vladivostok, not far from the Russia-North Korea border, and into the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, to the north of Japan.

11:18 The Centre has set up an advisory panel under Justice BN Srikrishna to take the bankruptcy regime for individuals forward, reports The Times of India. The 10-member panel will advise and "provide professional support" to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India, the regulatory body headed by MS Sahoo, which is drafting the norms for filing bankruptcy by individuals and help them start afresh, a clause that is contained in the law but is yet to be operationalised. The law has set a threshold of over Rs 1,000 for which individuals can file for bankruptcy protection. This has to be filed with debt recovery tribunals and the process is seen to be inadequate.

11:16 In a major setback for VK Sasikala-TTV Dhinakaran camp, Tami Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal has disqualified 18 AIADMK MLAs backing Dhinakaran, under 1986 Tamil Nadu Assembly Members party defection law, reports CNN-News18. The 18 disqualified MLAs include Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P Vetrivel and K Mariappan. The O Paneerselvam and Edappadi K Palaniswami factions had removed VK Sasikala as the partys interim general secretary in its general council meeting held last week. It also resolved that all the announcements made by TTV Dhinakaran will not be binding on the party.

11:10 BJP national president Amit Shah has appeared at a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnanis witness in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case. Shah was issued summons after Maya Kodnanis counsel informed the court that Shah was inaccessible.

10:45 In an incident which former Vice President Hamid Ansari's wife, Salma Ansari, called "shocking and scary", some unidentified men allegedly mixed rat poison in the water supply of Madrassa Chacha Nehru in Aligarh that houses 4,000 children, reports The Times of India. The institution located in the heart of the city is run by Al Noor Charitable Society which Ansari's wife heads. Police have lodged an FIR in the case under IPC sections 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) and 506 (criminal intimidation) and are on the lookout for two unidentified persons.

10:40 Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar plans to ban drinking of liquor in public places to curb the nuisance created by people in drunken state.

10:30 The international community must remain united and enforce sanctions against North Korea after its repeated launch of ballistic missiles, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in an editorial published in the New York Times on Sunday. Abes editorial was published before world leaders gather in New York for a United Nations General Assembly meeting this week, where North Koreas ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programmes are expected to loom large over proceedings.

10:29 Chinas property price growth slowed but remained firm in August despite stiff curbs to dampen speculative demand, suggesting the sector held up well with few risks of a severe correction many fear would blight the economy, reports Reuters. Average new home prices in Chinas 70 major cities rose 0.2% in August, lower than the previous months reading of 0.4%, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data showed on Monday.

10:25 Infosys Senior Vice President Sanjay Rajagopalan has resigned from his post, a month after Vishal Sikka stepped down as the company's MD and CEO, reports PTI. In his Linked In profile, Rajagopalan described himself as a "free man" after a stint of three years and two months at the IT bellwether. It was widely anticipated that Rajagopalan would quit after Sikka put down his papers. Sikka had brought some of his former SAP colleagues to Infosys to help him implement his new initiatives.

10:16 Bharat Road Network had a tepid listing on the bourses. The scrip traded flat against the higher end of the price band of Rs 205. The Rs 600-crore IPO of Bharat Road Network, a SREI Infrastructure Finance company, was oversubscribed 1.81 times.

10:01 Consumer electronics manufacturer Dixon Technologies debuted at Rs 2,725 per share, up 54% over its issue price of Rs 1,766 per share. The share touched a high of Rs 2,899 in early trade, up as much as 64% over its IPO price.

09:58 Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari on Sunday used obnoxious language addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet, reports CNN-News18. Tewari had earlier shared a video, purportedly showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi walking around, while a band played the national anthem. A Twitter user, responding to Tewari, wrote that he better not teach Prime Minister Narendra Modi a lesson on "nationalism". It was then that Tewari used crass language to describe Modi's followers, hinting that the Prime Minister was hoodwinking them all.

Tewari's response ignited widespread condemnation on social media and from across the political spectrum. More than 10 hours after that tweet, Tewari once again took to Twitter, clarifying that his tweet was "deriding" the response and he didn't mean to offend the Prime Minister. In a series of tweets, Tewari wrote that he had used a "Hindi colloquial" to expound the idiocy of the person who put "Modi over Mahatma".

09:50 Air Marshal Arjan Singh, who passed away at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday, is being given a state funeral at Brar Square in the national capital. In honour of the hero, the Tricolour will fly at half-mast in all government buildings in Delhi on Monday. The war heros cortege left on a gun carriage from his 7A Kautilya Marg residence at 8 am towards Brar Square. Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died at the age of 98.

09:45 Benchmark indices opened higher with the Nifty hitting a new record high, crossing 10,150, surpassing the previous milestone of 10,137, hit on August 2. Asian peers too hit decade highs on Monday amid relief that the weekend passed with no new provocation by North Korea.

09:43 Ryan International School in Gurugram reopened days after the murder of a 7-year-old student inside the washroom of the institution, ANI reports. The school bus conductor was arrested for the murder of the child. Parents have expressed anxiety and apprehensions. From now well have fear in our minds till our kids would reach home. The school authority should look after the safety of the children, a guardian said. Another parent asked for thorough background checking of staff and said that educated people should be recruited in schools.

09:34 Which stocks are on the wish-list of foreign and domestic brokerages today, click here to find out.

09:10 The United States seeks a peaceful resolution but is prepared to use military force if diplomatic efforts fail to end the nuclear standoff with North Korea, reports Bloomberg. If our diplomatic efforts fail, though, our military option will be the only one left, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said. But be clear: we seek a peaceful solution to this. President Donald Trump, in a Sunday tweet, mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as Rocket Man.

09:02 India is poised to emerge as an economic superpower, driven in part by its young population, while China and the Asian Tigers age rapidly, reports Bloomberg, quoting Deloitte LLP. The number of people aged 65 and over in Asia will climb from 365 million today to more than half a billion in 2027, accounting for 60% of that age group globally by 2030. In contrast, India will drive the third great wave of Asias growth  following Japan and China -- with a potential workforce set to climb from 885 million to 1.08 billion people in the next 20 years and hold above that for half a century.

08:54 Foreign ministers of India, US and Japan will hold a trilateral meeting on Tuesday to give momentum to their cooperation, amid China flexing its muscles in the region, reports PTI. Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj will hold the trilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, an Indian official said. During her week-long stay, Swaraj, leading a high-powered Indian delegation, is expected to hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

08:46 Global debt may be under-reported by around USD 13 trillion because traditional accounting practices exclude foreign exchange derivatives used to hedge international trade and foreign currency bonds, the Bank for International Settlements said on Sunday. Reuters reports it was hard to assess the risk this missing debt poses, but that the main worry was a liquidity crunch like the one that seized FX swap and forwards markets during the financial crisis.

08:42 Most bankers, rating agencies, brokerages and companies are unsure about the outcome of Securities and Exchange Board of Indias seismic rule requiring all companies to declare their loan defaults to banks within one working day, reports CNBC-TV18s Latha Venkatesh.

08:35 Proxy advisory firm Stakeholders Empowerment Services (SES) has advised Bharti Airtels shareholders to reject the companys proposal to acquire Telenor India when it comes up for voting on Tuesday.

08:33 In a new twist to Religare Enterprises' tussle with lenders and institutional shareholders, Japanese drugmaker Daiichi Sankyo has approached the Delhi High Court to stop payments from Religare to related companies.

08:32 The board of state-owned Allahabad Bank will meet on Wednesday to consider a draft scheme of amalgamation of its wholly-owned subsidiary AllBank Finance. ABFL is a leading merchant banker and has been holding licence for Debenture Trusteeship since February 2010.

08:32 Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) plans to invest Rs 61,000 crore in five years ending 2022 to scale up its refining and marketing operations. The state-run oil marketing company plans to invest Rs 7,110 crore this fiscal against Rs 5,860 crore in FY17, its chairman Mukesh Surana said.

08:31 Leading Indian and foreign companies including Vodafone, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Larsen & Toubro, Tech Mahindra, Tata Power and France's EDF are eyeing government's purchase of 50 lakh smart meters, which will give them access to big data on power consumption and create a market for 50 lakh SIM cards for connecting the devices, reports The Economic Times.

08:30 Speciality Restaurants, which owns fine-dining brands Mainland China and Oh! Calcutta; Jubilant FoodWorks, which operates well known global brands Domino's Pizza and Dunkin Donuts; and Coca Cola's largest Indian franchise bottler Moon Beverages are among those keen on partnering McDonald's, reports The Economic Times.

08:21 ITC plans to open 40 new hotels, adding around 5,000 rooms over a period of time, as part of the strategy to strengthen its hospitality business.

08:20 Capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) will update its board on Monday on action being taken against suspected shell companies allegedly abetting routing of illicit funds through stock markets.

08:20 Tata Sons proposal to convert itself into a private limited company from a public limited one will effectively restrict the Mistry familys ability to sell its stake in the Tata Group holding company to external entities.

08:19 Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested the Ministry of Finance to bring petroleum products under the ambit of Goods & Services Tax in the interest of consumers.

08:19 Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) is in talks with the countrys largest natural gas transporter GAIL (India) to acquire the governments majority stake in it for Rs 18,000-20,000 crore.

08:17 The GST Network has offered two more weeks for small traders who missed an earlier opportunity to sign up for a liberal compliance scheme involving quarterly return filings. The composition scheme for traders with up to Rs 75 lakh annual sales is now open till September 30.

08:12 Some institutional investors of PTC India now want their own representative on the board of directors of the countrys largest power trading firm, citing undervalued stock and financial inefficiency, reports The Economic Times.

08:11 Consumer electronics manufacturer Dixon Technologies and road BOT company Bharat Road Network are set to debut on the exchanges today. Dixon Technologies IPO was subscribed 117.83 times between September 6 and 8. The IPO of Bharat Road Network was subscribed 1.81 times during September 6-8.

08:09 Eurozone wages grew at their fastest rate in two years in the second quarter, data released on Friday showed, increasing the chances that the European Central Bank will set out plans next month to rein in its economic stimulus. Hourly labour costs rose by 1.8% in the April-June period, from a revised 1.4% in the first quarter, its highest growth since the first quarter of 2016, EU statistics office Eurostat said. Wages were 2% higher year-on-year in the second quarter from 1.3% in the first, the highest rate since the first quarter of 2015.

08:08 The Russian Central Bank lowered its main interest rate to 8.5% from 9% on Friday and said it expected to deliver more cuts in the next six months as inflation slows.

08:06 Gold slipped to its lowest level in over two weeks early on Monday amid a firmer dollar, while prospects of monetary policy tightening in the United States ahead of the Federal Reserve's two-day meeting starting on Tuesday also weighed on the metal.

07:59 Iran will not be bullied by the United States and will react strongly to any wrong move by Washington on Tehrans nuclear deal, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday. US President Donald Trump had on Thursday said that Iran was violating the spirit of the 2015 deal under which it got sanctions relief in return for curbing its nuclear programme. State television quoted Khamenei as saying Iran was standing firm and any wrong move by the domineering regime regarding the (nuclear accord) will face the reaction of the Islamic Republic.

07:56 China's Fosun Group has agreed to tweak its buyout deal with the promoters of Hyderabad-based Gland Pharma and acquire 74% of the company for USD 1.1 billion. This transaction had earlier been on hold for over a year due to regulatory hurdles. Last July, Shanghai Fosun had agreed to buy 86% of the generic injectables firm from its shareholders but was not cleared by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs. But ending months of speculation, Fosun informed exchanges that a new deal construct had been approved. Last year, the government relaxed the foreign investment rules, allowing global companies to acquire up to 74% in local drug makers without government approval.

07:51 The resolution process for Monnet Ispat & Energy has begun with an invitation of expressions of interest from potential investors. Investors have till September 25 to submit an EoI for a resolution plan. Monnet has become the first to initiate the process among the five steel companies that are going through insolvency resolution under a directive of the Reserve Bank of India. The other companies are Essar Steel, Bhushan Steel, Bhushan Power & Steel and Electrosteel Steels.

07:46 Indias current account deficit (CAD) soared to a four-year high of USD 14.3 billion, or 2.4% of gross domestic product (GDP), in the June quarter as gold imports picked up ahead of implementation of the goods and services tax (GST) starting July 1. In Q4 FY17, CAD was 0.6% of GDP at USD 3.4 billion, according to Reserve Bank of India data. Separately, data released by the Commerce Ministry showed that higher oil prices boosted both merchandise exports as well as imports, which grew in double digits, at 10.3% and 21.02% respectively, in August.

07:42 India's forex reserves surged by USD 2.6 billion to reach an all-time high of USD 400.7 billion on account of rise in foreign currency assets, an RBI release indicates. Foreign currency assets, a major component of the overall reserves, increased by USD 2.5 billion to USD 376.2 billion.

07:34 British police arrested a second man over the bombing of a London commuter train on Friday that injured 30 people and the security services lowered the threat level for an attack from its highest setting, reports Reuters. The 21-year-old man was detained under Britains terrorism laws in the west London suburb of Hounslow just before midnight on Saturday, London police said in a statement.

07:32 Britains foreign minister Boris Johnson was accused by Cabinet colleagues on Sunday of backseat driving on Brexit after setting out his own vision of the countrys future outside the European Union, reports Reuters. Only days before Prime Minister Theresa May is due to speak in Italy about Britains planned EU departure, Johnson on Saturday published a 4,300-word newspaper article that roamed well beyond his ministerial brief and, in some cases, the approach set out by the government.

07:24 A second powerful storm in as many weeks was bearing down on a string of battered Caribbean islands, with forecasters saying that Maria had strengthened into a hurricane on Sunday and would intensify before hitting the Leeward Islands on Monday night, reports Reuters. Maria continued to strengthen as it approached the Lesser Antilles, the US National Hurricane Center said, estimating its winds at 130 km per hour.

07:22 South Korea suffered an embarrassing failure of one of its indigenously developed missiles Friday, raising questions about whether it's prepared for a conflict with nuclear-armed North Korea, reports CNBC. In a show of force, Seoul test-launched two Hyunmoo-2 intermediate-range ballistic missiles near the border with North Korea just minutes after Pyongyang tested its own intermediate-range missile and flew it over Japan. But not all the South's missiles hit their intended target.

07:20 US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said on Sunday the UN Security Council has run out of options on containing North Koreas nuclear program and the United States may have to turn the matter over to the Pentagon, reports Reuters. We have pretty much exhausted all the things that we can do at the Security Council at this point, Haley said, adding that she was perfectly happy to hand the North Korea problem over to Defense Secretary James Mattis.

07:13 Oil markets were firm on Monday and remained near multi-month highs reached late last week as the count of US rigs drilling for new production fell and refineries continued to start up after getting knocked out by Hurricane Harvey.

07:09 US retail sales unexpectedly fell in August as Hurricane Harvey likely depressed motor vehicle purchases, suggesting a moderation in consumer spending in the third quarter, reports CNBC. The Commerce Department said on Friday retail sales dropped 0.2% last month. Data for July was revised to show sales increasing 0.3% instead of the previously reported 0.6% jump.

07:07 Wall Street reached record highs on Friday, with the S&P 500 surpassing 2,500 points as telecommunications shares rose and technology bounced back after two days of declines. The S&P 500s breach of the 2,500-mark came less than four months after it closed above 2,400, and brought 2017s gain to nearly 12%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.29% to end at 22,268.34 points, while the Nasdaq Composite added 0.3% to 6,448.47.

07:02 The US Federal Reserve will meet on Tuesday and Wednesday where it is likely to take another step toward normalisation of interest rates.

07:00 Asian shares crept ahead and the dollar firmed on Monday in a cautious start to a week in which the US Federal Reserve is likely to wrestle with its bloated balance sheet as part of a long reversal of super-cheap money worldwide. While there was relief the weekend passed with no new provocation by North Korea, Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions will be centre stage when US President Donald Trump addresses world leaders at the United Nations on Tuesday.

Moneycontrol
CNBC-TV18

More than 100 homebuyers, who had invested in Jaycee Homes Bhagtani Riyo project are left high and dry. The project was pre-launched in 2013 and around 500 buyers had made payments to the tune of 30-50 percent of the cost of their homes. The buyers claim the developer had promised that if the construction did not take place within 12-18 months they would have their money refunded with a 15 percent interest. The project is yet to take off and the buyers see no signs of a refund.

The prices at which homes were offered to us were quite attractive along with the 15 percent interest on refund in case of delay in starting the project. Accordingly, we made around 30 percent payments but the developer did not keep his end of the bargain. We approached the developer after 18 months and at that time he said he has no money and offered us a transfer option, says Parthiv Jethi, a buyer who had booked an apartment in the Bhagtani Riyo project in 2013.

Ashok Verman, a retired Air India employee who had also invested in the project, says that this delay has caused him a lot of mental stress. I am staying in a rented apartment. I had invested my post-retirement savings in this project. But its been 5 years that I am waiting to get what was promised to me, says Verman.

As the project was pre-launched the builder did not have any approved plans. This trend was very much prevalent in the pre-RERA era. In this particular case, the builder had given buyers a provisional allotment letter. The buyers were termed as investors in the letter. A particular clause in the letter states that it is an understanding between the developer and investor; therefore, it will not be covered under Maharashtra Ownership of Flats Act or MOFA.

When we visited the project site we found that there is absolutely no trace of any construction. In fact, the developer has not been able to even acquire the land from the landlord who has barricaded the property for trespassers. But interestingly this project is still advertised on some of the leading property portals.

Dipesh Bhagtani, Executive Director of Jaycee Homes, agreed that they have still not been able to get the ownership of the land and termed the delay as unfortunate. This land was a joint venture between us and Shivshakti Mandal. Unfortunately, they were not able to get the requisite permissions and, therefore, we were not able to start the work, says Bhagtani.

He further added, Like any other real estate company we are facing cash flow problems and, therefore, are not able to re-pay our investors. We request our investors to stand by us as we work hard to ensure that they get their money back. We hope this is possible in the next 6-8 months. We are also offering them transfer solution and around 80 customers have already accepted transfer in other Jaycee Homes projects.

Legal experts say that the buyers should weigh the transfer option very carefully before going ahead with it. Buyers should first check if the new project that is now offered to them is RERA registered and whether the developer will give them the compensation for this long wait, says Vinay Singh, Advocate, AK Legal, Partners.

Meanwhile, some of the buyers who had approached Maharashtra RERA to file the complaint against the developer for non-registration of the project were asked to wait until September 30. Maha RERA said that the complaints about non-registration will be entertained only after September 30. This is the second time the authority has asked us to wait with regards to this case, says Godfrey Pimenta, an advocate who is representing some of the Bhagtani Riyo buyers.
Representative Image (Image: Slack.)

Workplace collaboration tool Slack has raised another round of funding from Softbanks newly instituted USD 100 billion fund which values the company at more than USD 5 billion.

SoftBank's Vision Fund invested USD 250 million into Slack Technologies Inc. which saw its valuation soar up to USD 5.1 billion. An earlier round of funding from Thrive Capital valued it at USD 3.8 billion.

According to a report in Tech Crunch, the murmurs of the investment started in July when it was said the company was looking to raise USD 500 million. There were also talks going on that Microsoft, its competitor in the market was interested in the company which could have valued it at USD 8 billion.

Since its inception, the company is branded as Silicon Valleys darling. The company is trying hard to break that perception and has shown potential to grow in the markets outside California. Slack, earlier this month announced that it had more than six million daily active users and has crossed USD 200 million in annual recurring revenue.

SoftBanks Vision Fund has lately placed its bets on a plethora of startups, especially from the tech sector. The fund has recently invested USD 250 million in the hotel aggregation firm Oyo. Before that, the fund chipped in USD 2.5 billion into e-commerce giant Flipkart in August.

Earlier it invested USD 4.4 billion in WeWork, the shared office provider. The venture already owns more than 30 percent in the ride-hailing startup Uber.
A girl plays with a fidget spinner toy in London, Britain, May 17, 2017. REUTERS/Tom Jacobs - RC11C1F937E0

Fidget spinner, also popularly known as finger spinner needs no introduction; from a four-year-old to upwards- anybody who could get two fingers around the fast spinning device has tried it.

Due to its popularity, the palm-sized toy has made it to the best sellers list in Amazons toys and games category, according to news reports.

The handheld gadget has had its share of controversies; from being banned by schools for "creating distraction among students," to the controversy over its original inventor.

Within its short life span, the fidget spinner has joined the list of evergreen toys, such as the Frisbee and Rubik's cube designed by the Hungarian sculptor Erno Rubik, which each successive generation has either owned it or at least played with it.

Unlike other toys, the spinner is versatile as it can be customised to suit once taste; not just in colour, size but also in design and material it is made from. It is here to stay!

The fidget spinner- a simple yet intriguing toy has interesting lessons to share with start-ups and entrepreneurs.

"Its the sales, stupid!": Various news reports have identified

Catherine Hettinger, "a Florida based chemical engineer by training," and Scott McCoskery, an "entrepreneur based just outside of Seattle" as inventors of the fidget spinners.

McCoskery's two-winged spinner is identical in design to the popular three- winged gadget being sold on the market.

However, it is Catherine Hettinger who first developed the concept of a finger spinner.

Though the jury is still out and it might take a while to know who invented the toy- but in the meanwhile, it is the Chinese manufacturers who made money by selling the product. Entrepreneurs should be aware that nothing is more important than sales- So step out and make the sales, doesnt matter who invented the product in the first place.

Rejection is not the end for a founder: According to reports, Hasbro, a toy manufacturing giant, had rejected Catherine Hettinger's concept after carrying out initial customers trials.

There is nothing to prove that she made attempts to connect with other manufacturers or even investors.

But today, Hasbro is selling the spinners- "almost 20 years after it denied the original product," says a report. There is scarcely an entrepreneur who hasn't faced rejection in the early stage...Rejection is not necessarily a failure- if you use it as constructive feedback or a chance to build a relationship.

There are lessons to learn even when the answer is "no."

Mentors are the key to success of failure:

A mentor could be the differentiator between enjoying success or agonizing over a failure.

Both Catherine and McCoskery would have immensely benefited from the professional advice of seasoned mentors.

After the Hasbro rejection, Catherine needed to show perseverance, and a mentor would have helped her to keep the course in spite of the disappointment.

Scott introduced his "two barred spinner in 2015 with the name Torqbar."

In spite of receiving encouraging response from customers, who were lining up to buy his spinner, Scott continued to sell it as a customised product.

A business mentor would have helped him tweak his business strategy keeping mind the customer feedback.

In the start-up world; entrepreneurs have time and again credited their success and growth to their mentor who provided timely advice, guidance and helped them in navigating through tough times.

Unique Businesses too need Scaling up:

Both Catherine and McCoskery achieved limited success as they failed in expanding their respective business beyond their local geographies.

Though, both the inventors found buyers for their products; they couldn't turn their idea into a profitable and scalable business.

Entrepreneurs should recognize that having a unique idea or product is not enough- what makes the difference between winning or losing is - how well you can scale up your business.

Most entrepreneurs start their entrepreneurial journey with limited skills and or experience.

Some acquire requisite skills as they go and other builds teams with complimenting skills.

While entrepreneurs are busy building their product or tweaking their business model, they may lose sight of emerging opportunities & challenges thus it helps to have a mentor who can be a guide and a sounding board when needed.
CNBC-TV18 brings you a brand new week of Bull's Eye. It's the popular game show where market experts come together to dish out trading strategies for you to make your week more exciting and compete with each other to see whose portfolio is the strongest.

Remember these are midcap ideas not just for the day, but stocks that look attractive in the medium-term as well.

This week, Pankaj Jain, Ashish Kyal and Jay Thakkar battle it out for top honours.

Below their top stock picks and analysis:

Pankaj Jain of SW Capital

Buy Thirumalai Chemicals with a stoploss at Rs 1515 and target of Rs 1625

Buy Automotive Axles with a stoploss at Rs 869 and target of Rs 930

Buy Edelweiss Financial Services with a stoploss at Rs 279 and target of Rs 305

Ashish Kyal of Waves Strategy Advisors

Buy Dewan Housing Finance Corporation (DHFL) with a stoploss at Rs 560 and target of Rs 605

Buy Indraprastha Gas (IGL) with a stoploss at Rs 1405 and target of Rs 1485

Buy TVS Motor with a stoploss at Rs 635 and target of Rs 690

Sell Apollo Hospitals Enterprises with a stoploss at Rs 1085 and target of Rs 1000

Jay Thakkar of Anand Rathi Securities

Buy United Spirits with a stoploss at Rs 2603 and target of Rs 2730

Buy Greaves Cotton with a stoploss at Rs 139.50 and target of Rs 150

Buy Havells India with a stoploss at Rs 498 and target of Rs 521

Buy UPL with a stoploss at Rs 810 and target of Rs 847
Tata group plans to take legal action, regarding infringement of intellectual property rights, against a Kolkata-based businessman who started a company last month by the name of Tata Sons Ltd in London, reported the Livemint.

Similarly, another businessman named Mohammad Irfan Yousaf from Pakistan recently started a company in the UK by the name of Tata Investments Ltd for 'buying and selling of real estate'.

The Telegraph on Sunday had reported about the 30-year-old Pawan Jhawar who registered Tata Sons Limited as a private investment company at 219 Kensington High Street in Londons upscale Kensington neighbourhood with a paid-up capital of 1,000 on August 7 this year.

Following which, Bombay House, the headquarters of the Tata group in Mumbai, said it might consider legal action for intellectual property right infringement.

Such a move is in blatant violation of all laws, including our intellectual property rights over the usage of the word Tata, a spokesperson for Tata Sons  the groups holding firm  told the paper.

Even though, Jhawar's intentions are unclear, the use of 'Tata Sons' as his company's name is an infringement of the intellectual property rights of Tata group, which has the name registered as its trademarks across the world.

The Tata group would surely move court to force Jhawar to change his companys name, said the report.

According to Companies House, a regulator in the UK, a company may have to change its name if someone complains and it is determined that the name is too similar to one already registered.

However, in the past, the Companies House has allowed several enterprises not owned or connected to the group to start entities using the Tata name.
Berkeley: Congress Vice President, Rahul Gandhi delivering a speech at Institute of International Studies at UC Berkeley, California on Monday. PTI Photo(PTI9_12_2017_000038B)

Rahul Gandhi is in the news but for the wrong reasons once again. The Congress vice president, who is infamous for his goof-ups has done it again after he addressed Late Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh as Air Marshal in a tweet.

The tweet was posted on his official Twitter handle on Friday following the demise of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh. In the tweet Rahul Gandhi mistakenly addressed Late Arjan Singh as Air Marshal instead of his original designation i.e. Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

"A soldier & diplomat par excellence, Air Marshal Arjan Singhjis demise is an irreparable loss. India has lost a true hero. Deepest condolences," his tweet stated. The position of an Air Marshal is of four-star rank and that of the Marshal of the Indian Air Force is of five-star rank.

Realising his mistake, Rahul Gandhi quickly rectified it. The wrong tweet was taken down and a new one was posted. A soldier & diplomat par excellence, Marshal of IAF Arjan Singh's demise is an irreparable loss. India has lost a true hero. Deepest condolences, said the new tweet.



A soldier &diplomat par excellence,Marshal of IAF Arjan Singh's demise is an irreparable loss.India has lost a true hero.Deepest condolences

 Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) September 16, 2017

The Congress vice president has been busy with various programs including a study tour that as per a senior Congress leader 'was to bring back knowledge and implement it at the policy level in the Congress partys vision documents'.

The recent public outreach programs by the Gandhi scion is also seen by many as the preparation before he takes over as the leader of the Congress party.
accusing it of promoting Google Shopping in organic search results while simultaneously demoting rival services.

Moneycontrol News

In what can be construed as another chapter in the battle between left and right-leaning entities Gab, a social network created as an alternative to Facebook, Twitter and Reddit, has filed a case against Google for not featuring its app in the Play Store.

Gab is a social media platform that claims it is open to all forms of speech and is popular among those who are banned from microblogging platform Twitter.

The social platform is accusing Google of violating federal antitrust laws according to the lawsuit filed on Thursday, says multiple media reports.

Gab apparently claimed that Google denied its listing to protect data-sharing agreement with Twitter, thus potentially violating antitrust rules.

Google is the biggest threat to the free flow of information, Gab chief executive Andrew Torba said in a statement, as per a report by the Washington Post.

Gab started to fight against the big tech companies in the marketplace, and their monopolistic conduct has forced us to bring the fight to the courtroom, the report further added.

Google had banned the social media platform from Google Play Store last year for apparently violating Googles hate-speech policies.

Washington Post also reported Google stating the lawsuit as baseless and that it would defend its decision in Court.

Hundreds of trolls have been banned from Twitter so far. The basis of its microblogging platforms marketing as the free speech wing of the free speech party has caused the Internet to take up the challenge to surpass limits.

Along with Breitbart's writer Milo Yianopoulos, many other people associated with the alternate right have already shifted to Gab as the primary platform.

Antitrust lawyer Mark Patterson told tech blog Ars Technica that if Google could choose not to allow Gab into Play Store, based on its association with hate groups, the antitrust claim would have a sleek chance of success.

Irrespective of the courts verdict, Gabs lawsuit will help the nascent platform further establish itself as an alternative to Silicon Valleys centre-left cultural norms while helping it gain some possible PR points.

Google, meanwhile, has recently been in the news for firing former employee James Damore for a 10-page anti-diversity memo that he wrote while working for the search giant.
Build your skillset: Change is the only constant and with the evolving times an updated skillset would be a handy addition to your resume. Show potential employers what youve learned that can be an asset to their business in the post-coronavirus world. (Image Source: Reuters)

Popular music video platform Vevo has suffered a security breach as a gang of hackers called OurMine took over 3 TB worth of VEVOs internal files after the company employee told them to f*** off.

The hacking group had previously contacted a Vevo representative along with news of the compromise, only to be met with profanity and disbelief (Courtesy: OurMine)

The leak, that was first reported by Gizmodo, states that Ourmine leaked around 3.1 TB of data from Vevos servers that includes Vevos private dossiers on 90 different artists, including Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, One Direction, and U2.

Vevo has confirmed the attack in a statement to Gizmodo. A spokesperson for the company said: [We] can confirm that Vevo experienced a data breach as a result of a phishing scam via Linkedin. We have addressed the issue and are investigating the extent of exposure.

Other leaked documents included C & P assets, social media strategy, pre-rolls and premieres of the US-based multinational video-hosting service.

The hacking group Ourmine has previously been associated with other high-profile leaks such as HBOs social media accounts and Wikileaks. Last year they had taken over Mark Zuckerbergs Twitter and Pinterest accounts.

Vevo has apparently generated USD 200 million in a year owing to long ad commitments, due to popular artists like Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift generating 25 million daily views.

They might consider spending some of those on beefing up security instead now.
Iran's army servicemen with the national flag attend the opening ceremony of the airborne platoon competition, part of the International Army Games 2017, in Guangshui, Hubei province, China, July 30, 2017. China Daily via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. CHINA OUT. NO COMMERCIAL OR EDITORIAL SALES IN CHINA. - RTS19PSH

Iran has claimed that it now possesses a bomb that is comparable to the US-owned Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb (MOAB) better known as 'mother of all bombs'.

Iranian sources have claimed that their bomb was the 'father of all bombs'.

According to a top commander of Irans Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) the ten tonne bomb which is termed as is way more powerful than the US MOAB. Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, IRGCs Aerospace Force commander, said the bomb was built following IRGCs special request.

The commander was quoted in a report from the Press TV saying following a proposal by the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), [Irans] Defense Industries [Organization] manufactured a 10-ton bomb. These bombs are at our disposal they can be launched from Ilyushin aircraft and they are highly destructive."

The commander also added that IRGC has infiltrated into the US militarys command centers and has evidence of their support for ISIS terrorists.

The Iranian bomb follows the current trend in which many countries are looking to develop conventional bombs with heavy capability. Earlier both the US and Russia had successfully tested similar high yield bombs. While the US who used its MOAB in Afghanistan recently, the Russian Aviation Thermobaric Bomb of Increased Power (ATBIP), considered as far more powerful, was tested in 2007.

The recent flexing of military might by the Iranians comes at a time when the tensions in the middle-east are at an alarmingly high level. Fears have risen that Tehran may also draw lessons from the ongoing crisis in Korean peninsula and become bolder in its ambitions.
The White House today insisted that the US will withdraw from the Paris climate accord unless it can re-enter on more favourable terms, denying reports that Washington was softening its stance on the landmark agreement.

The statement by the White House comes amid reports that the Trump administration would announce at the Montreal talks that it would not pull out of the Paris accord and was offering to re-engage with the deal.

"There has been no change in the United States' position on the Paris agreement," White House spokesperson Lindsay Walters said.

"As the President has made abundantly clear, the United States is withdrawing unless we can re-enter on terms that are more favourable to our country," she said in a statement.

Ministers from 34 economies are meeting in Montreal to head off potential efforts by the US to weaken the accord at the November UN climate summit in Bonn, Germany.

Meanwhile, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in an interview on CBS's 'Face The Nation' suggested that President Trump would be open to remaining in the Paris climate deal under the right conditions.

"I think if you recall, the president also said, look, we are willing to work with partners in the Paris climate accord," Tillerson said.

"If we can construct a set of terms that we believe is fair and balanced for the American people and recognizes our economy, our economic interests, relative to others, in particular, the second-largest economy in the world, China."

Tillerson said the plan is to consider other ways the US can work with partners in the Paris climate agreement.

"We want to be productive, we want to be helpful. I think under the right conditions, the president said he is open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others on what we all agree is still a challenging issue," Tillerson said when asked if there are chances when America can remain in the deal.

Tillerson today headed to New York to attend the annual General Assembly session of the United Nations during which he would hold a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with world leaders.

He is also expected to meet External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Early this year, President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change and renegotiate the deal that was agreed upon by over 190 countries during the previous Obama administration.

Arguing that countries like China and India are benefiting the most from the Paris Agreement, Trump had said that the agreement on climate change was unfair to the US, as it badly hit its businesses and jobs.

The Paris agreement's central aim is to strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change by keeping the global temperature rise in this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The landmark agreement, which entered into force last November, calls on countries to combat climate change and to accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed for a sustainable low carbon future, and to adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.
Education

Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu.

Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu.

Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events:

International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu.

EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu.

Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale  an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s  will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets  June Homecoming: Participant  $18 per person; Sustainer  $25 per person; Benefactor  $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler  Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events:

SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available  for information call 610-275-1960

Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above)

SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m.

Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.  4 p.m.  computers are available during those hours.

Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863.

Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376.

Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com.

The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes:

Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at

other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020.

CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313.

The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events:

Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m.

Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30.

Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301.

For Kids & Families

The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443.

Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950.

Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required.

The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950.

Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus.

Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage.

Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun.

Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train.

Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world!

Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class.

Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org.

Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583.

Community Events at the Ambler Y:

-YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register.

Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org.

Health

Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot.

The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information.

Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245.

Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net.

Spring Aquatic Programs  UDHS Pool:

-Summer is just around the corner  Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required.

 Shallow Water Aerobics  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR.

 Adult Swim Instructions  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR

-Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21.

-Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday  Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m.

-Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons.

-Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates.

Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994.

SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com.

Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org.

Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs:

FITNESS CLASSES

Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month.

Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30  9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000.

Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30  7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047.

New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m.  12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30  4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931.

Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325.

Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes.

Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com.

Librarytalk

Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744

www.upperdublinlibrary.org

APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS:

Storytimes: Please register in the library.

o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.

o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m.

o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.

o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6.

APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS:

North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee

APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS:

NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org.

One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register  contact info above.

Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744.

o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register.

Meetings:

Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m.

Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m.

Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org.

For children and teens at Blue Bell:

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m.

* May 14  Despicable Me

* June 11  Alpha and Omega

* Special Events

* April  watch for date of spring/Easter events

* April 14 at 4:30 p.m.  Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children.

* April 14 at 7 p.m.  Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided.

* April 16 at 1 p.m.  Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King.

* April 16 at 1:30 p.m.  Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes?

* April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button.

* April 30 through May 3  Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults.

* May  sign up for Science in the Summer

* June  sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children

* June  sign up for Summer Reading, all ages

For adults at Blue Bell:

* Daytime Book Discussion Group  fourth Tuesday, Jan  April at 1:30 p.m.

* April 26  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Night-time Book Discussion Group  third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.

o April 19  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges

o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked?

*Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs

* Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class.

* Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class.

* Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m.

* Giant Book Sale, April 29  May 3

o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults!

o Held during library hours.

o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m.

o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join.

* Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series

o May 11 at 1 p.m.  Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society

* Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room.

* Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read.

* Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome.

* Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome.

*Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older.

* Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours

* Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours

* Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday!

Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library.

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* For adults:

* Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn.

* Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net

* Special Events:

* April 14 at 1:30 p.m.  Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian.

* April 19 at 7 p.m.  Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m.

* April 21 at 7 p.m.  Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades.

*May 2 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

*May 10  Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*May 12 at 1:30p.m.  Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman.

*May 17  Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*June 13 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

Meetings and Lectures

The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833.

The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200.

The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/.

LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings.

Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org.

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org)

-Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them.

The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter.

For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps.

Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin.

Special Events

The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County.

The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065.

Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members.

Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex.

The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com.

The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348.

The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org.

Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163.

The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu.

The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com.

The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net.

Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages.

13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries.

Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family.

The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler.

JPRN  Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them  Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike.

Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies.

Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately.

Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways.

Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table.

Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp  Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall:

-Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store.

Music and Theater

The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220.

Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html.

Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free.

The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org

Religious News

The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276.

Reunions

St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net.

Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572.

Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779.

Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net

Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net

The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411.

Support

New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149.

PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931.

The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296.

Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656.

Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group  every other Wednesday, 7  8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support  second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner  Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers  Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information.

CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7  8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich,
After an evidence-based research model was linked to how those with mental disabilities can be negatively affected physically and spiritually, a local agency is taking action to help decrease that reality.

A Caring Alternative, out of Morganton, will be hosting a day of exercise activities and informational opportunities for the public to attend and participate in. The event called One Community, One Healthy Lifestyle is scheduled for Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the One North Square parking lot located at 311 E. Meeting St. in Morganton.

According to the ACA website, they are a comprehensive care agency providing behavioral health and substance abuse services to adults, adolescents and children in western North Carolina.

In recent studies, research has indicated that people with serious mental illness die 25 to 30 years earlier than individuals in the general population, said information from ACA.

A program called InSHAPE, founded by Ken Jue, was developed in 2002 to help promote fitness and to fight against premature mortality among individuals with SMI. This individualized fitness promotion program is supplemented with group-based exercise, healthy eating activities, smoking cessation education, referral and support. The integration of physical and mental health care is an important core value within InSHAPE, the information said.

ACA received a $2,000 grant through Dartmouth College, who wanted to implement the programs research in different behavioral health clients, said Shelia Perkins, implementation specialist with ACA.

We were selected one of the 18 behavioral agencies across the nation to participate in this programming, said Teagan Brown, chief development officer.

Clients with A Caring Alternative will be sharing their measurements and weight with Dartmouth College, while keeping their identities confidential, to be added to a national database for research purposes, Brown said.

The goal is for the person to have a better quality of life, Brown said.

They hope this program provides motivation for their clients and those who attend the event, Brown said.

At the event, an exercise session will be lead by Kelly Davis, owner of Unit One Gym in Valdese, who is also a mentor through the InSHAPE program, Brown said.

He is also letting our clients use his facility, which is very nice, Brown said.

The event also will showcase different physical activities to boost cardio such as jump roping, three legged race and corn hole competition.

The agency wanted to offer this type of program because they saw a growing need for support in physical well being for those with serious mental illnesses.

We realize that i t is a problem and we work on the whole body  we dont work just on mental health, Perkins said. We work with mental health; we work with emotional (and) spiritual wellness. We work with the whole body because that is the way that the system is going at this time.

In March, employees within ACA were flown to New Hampshire to receive training on the research model from Jue, Brown said.

We were trained in the evidence - based model as far as the InSHAPE program, Brown said. It is 50 percent nutritional education and 50 percent exercise.

They are asking any health and wellness related agencies in the community to participate as vendors and sponsors to share and display information about their organizations that may benefit ACA clients and the public, Perkins said.

We are trying to get more people involved, Perkins said.

Lunch will be served and the event is open and free to the public. There also will be door prizes given away.

For more information about the event, call ACA at 828-437-3000.

Staff Writer Jonelle Bobak can be reached at jbobak@morganton.com or 828-432-8907.
Maintaining independence and editorial freedom is essential to our mission of empowering investor success. We provide a platform for our authors to report on investments fairly, accurately, and from the investors point of view. We also respect individual opinionsthey represent the unvarnished thinking of our people and exacting analysis of our research processes. Our authors can publish views that we may or may not agree with, but they show their work, distinguish facts from opinions, and make sure their analysis is clear and in no way misleading or deceptive.

To further protect the integrity of our editorial content, we keep a strict separation between our sales teams and authors to remove any pressure or influence on our analyses and research.

Read our editorial policy to learn more about our process.
Ever since Ontarios implementation of a foreign home buyers tax and the introduction of its Fair Housing Plan, the number of non-resident owners of real estate in the Greater Golden Horseshoe has seen a noticeable decline, according to the latest numbers from the provincial government.The proportion of Ontario homes purchased by those who are not citizens and permanent residents of Canada, or by foreign corporations, fell by 1.5 per cent from May 27 to August 18, 2017 compared to the period covering April 24 to May 26, 2017, the provinces Ministry of Finance said.Roughly 3.2 per cent of 66,434 transactions in the Greater Golden Horseshoe involved at least one foreign individual or corporation, down from 4.7 per cent in the previous period. Across all of Ontario, 2.6 per cent of 101,698 deals involved a foreign entity, while Torontos share was 5.6 per cent, down from 7.2 per cent in the pre-FHP days.The measures that we introduced as a part of the Fair Housing Plan are workingwe are seeing increased housing supply and evidence that more people are finding affordable homes. Ontario continues to be a place that welcomes all new residents, drawn by its rising employment and strong economy, Ontario finance minister Charles Sousa said.Ontario Real Estate Association CEO Tim Hudak praised the government for providing updated real estate data on foreign buyers, but he emphasized that this is merely the first step in creating an effective policy solution to the provinces housing woes.While demand side data is useful, we cannot lose sight of the fundamental challenge Ontario has with housing supply. There is too much red tape on housing development that drives up the cost of new homes and limits inventory in the marketplace, Hudak said in a statement. Infrastructure investments should be targeted at housing ready land and we should allow greater intensification along rail and transportation corridors.No matter how you slice demand data, until we expand the quantity and choices in homes, home ownership will be pushed further out of reach for the next generation.
Having worked in the Vancouver commercial mortgage market for over 25 years, Derek Wasson brings with him a profusion of in-depth industry experience in his current position as Trez Capitals Vice President (Origination) in Vancouver. Derek is a holder of a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) degree from the University of British Columbia.



Briefly, can you tell us about your current market situation?

Right now, the market is for the most part well capitalized; theres a large number of players here in Vancouver, ranging from the Big Five banks all the way down to doctors and dentists who are looking to place a couple hundred thousand dollars in a commercial mortgage. Trez has approximately $2.2 billion under management, and currently is one of the largest non-bank commercial mortgage lenders nationally.



At the moment, theres a ton of capital supply for certain product types and very little for othersfor instance, lots of money for apartments and other income-producing properties, and very little funds for development land. When it comes to development land, lenders are looking for the highest quality they could find, and since Vancouver real estate is so highly priced right now, everybody is focused on trying to lend to the best, most experienced and well capitalized managers and developers.



In this current climate, what are the common issues you encounter as a commercial mortgage professional?

Its definitely the heightened level of competition for high-quality asset classes. Also the valuations are so high that you have to be very prudent. You have to do a lot of due diligence and analysis to really hone down on the value of these properties.



Also, the increased AML (anti-money laundering) requirements of transactions mean that the proving of the source of funds has become more important. We spend a lot of time getting to know our clients and the source of their down payments, as mandated by law. We are very careful when it comes to that, and I tell new clients upfront that we as lenders will be conducting very close checks on their funding sources. There are multiple foreign investor groups in Vancouver that come from all parts of the world, and some are very privateand we cannot operate that way. If they cant or wont answer our questions, we cant lend them the money.



What are the most significant financing challenges that your clients are struggling with right now?

While we have a high capacity for construction and income-producing loans right now, our clients struggle is two-fold: finding land in the first placefinding land that makes sense for their projectsand then finding the financing to acquire said land.



Another major struggle is the time it takes to get a project permitted in the Lower Mainland. The time frames have become incredibly long as the various cities are so backed up. As I understand it, 3 years are needed now to get a tower project done in Burnaby, and 4 years in Vancouver. Its simply unreasonable to take that long to complete the entitlement of a project. It is too onerous on the developer, and it is a major factor in the shortage of housing supply and runaway prices in the lower mainland.



Considering these market realities, what would be your advice to your clients?

I would strongly encourage them to prepare to make larger down payments, and plan for a long pre-development time frame.
Irma Triples Harvey's Threat to Mortgage Lenders

In the literal wake of a second major hurricane in as many weeks, Black Knight Financial Services is again warning of some potentially disastrous outcomes for mortgage guarantors. The company issued a report on September 11 estimating there was the potential of losses to mortgaged properties in Texas and Louisiana at $179 billion from Hurricane Harvey. Now they are back again with bad news about Hurricane Irma.

Irma hit the U.S. Virgin Islands, rather than hitting Miami as expected, and slammed into Florida's Cudjoe Key, making yet another landfall at Marco Island at category 3 windspeeds. Because of its late westerly shift and the hours it spent churning offshore of Florida's west coast the hurricane caused major storm surges on both coasts, affecting coastlines as far north as South Carolina and causing significant wind damage over the interior of both Florida and Georgia.

Black Knight's preliminary report on damages from Irma estimates the storm may have affected more than 3.1 million mortgaged properties, a number that represents $517 billion in unpaid principal balances. This is three times the number of properties as were involved with Hurricane Harvey and seven times those connected to Hurricane Katrina which clobbered Louisiana and Mississippi in 2005. In terms of dollars, Irma involved three times the projected unpaid balances of mortgages potentially impacted by Harvey and 11 times more than did Katrina.

Irma-related disaster areas now include more than 90 percent of all mortgaged properties in Florida.

Black Knight Executive Vice President Ben Graboske said, "While the total extent of the damage from Hurricane Irma is still being determined, it is clear that the size and scope of the disaster is immense. Indeed, in terms of the number of mortgaged properties and their associated unpaid principal balances, Irma significantly outpaces even the number of borrowers impacted by Hurricane Harvey. With FEMA expanding the number of Irma-related designated disaster areas late Wednesday, Sept. 13, to a total of 37 Florida counties, more than 90 percent of all mortgaged properties in the state now fall into such areas."

It is important to note that Black Knight is reporting the number of mortgaged properties within the damaged areas, not necessarily the number that sustained losses. However, a salient point is how many of those properties may have been uninsured. Leading up to the storm, Patch reported that, according to FEMA data, less than 42 percent of homes in Florida's 38 coastal counties carried flood insurance.

After Harvey, Black Knight said that, of the 1.18 million mortgaged homes in affected areas, the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac together held or guaranteed 56 percent of the loans. We can probably assume similar numbers in Irma's path.

Further, the company noted that, within two months of Katrina, delinquencies among borrowers in Louisiana and Mississippi's disaster areas spiked 25 percent, peaking at 34 percent of mortgaged homes. Four months post-hurricane, serious delinquencies, those over 90 days past due or in foreclosure, rose 14 percentage points to 16 percent. The company extrapolated those numbers to estimate that a similar pattern among Harvey's victims could result in 300,000 borrowers missing one mortgage payment in the next two months and 160,000 becoming seriously delinquent within four months. With three times the number of properties potentially damaged by Irma, those numbers become 900,000 and 480,000 respectively.

Graboske added, "As Irma forged its path of destruction through the Caribbean, one relatively positive development was that Puerto Rico escaped the direct hit many had predicted. From a mortgage performance perspective, this was particularly good news, as delinquencies there were already quite high leading up to the storm. At more than 10 percent, Puerto Rico's delinquency rate is nearly three times that of the U.S. average, as is its 5.8 percent serious delinquency rate. In contrast, the disaster areas declared in Florida have starting delinquency rates below the national average, providing more than a glimmer of optimism as we move forward."
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced plans to require all credit-reporting agencies to register with the state and comply with its cyber security regulations.The announcement comes in the wake of a titanic data breach at Equifax  a breach which exposed the personal information of up to 143 million consumers. The proposed regulation would take effect in February, according to a Reuters report. If credit-reporting agencies didnt comply, they could be prohibited from doing business with financial companies regulated by the state of New York.According to Cuomo, credit-reporting agencies  including Equifax, TransUnion and Experian  would have to report each year their officers or directors responsible for regulatory compliance, Reuters reported. New York would also be able to bar a credit agency from doing business in the state if the agency was engaging in unfair, deceptive or predatory practices, Cuomos statement said.The Equifax breach was a wakeup call, and with this action, New York is raising the bar for consumer protections that we hope will be replicated across the nation, Cuomo said.
Students lose nearly half of the college credits they earn transferring from one school to another, placing them at risk of exhausting federal grants and loans to repeat courses, according to the Government Accountability Office.

To save money, some students start at low-cost community colleges before heading to a university to complete their bachelors degree. They are often frustrated to learn that the math or science courses they took do not meet the standards of their new school, where they must now enroll in classes theyve already completed. That means more money and more time before they can graduate.

Using the most recent available data from the Education Department, GAO researchers estimate that students who transferred from 2004 to 2009 lost on average 43 percent of their credits. Two thirds of those transfer students had federal loans and almost half received Pell grants -- aid for students whose families typically earn less than $60,000 a year. Both forms of student aid have eligibility limits based on lifetime use or program length, 12 semesters for Pell and six years for direct loans.

Students who lose credits may use more financial aid to pay for repeated courses at additional cost to the federal government, or they may exhaust their financial aid eligibility, which can result in additional out-of-pocket costs, the GAO said in a report released Wednesday.

At the very least, researchers say schools should be more transparent about their transfer policies. Many public universities have whats known as articulation agreements with local community or regional colleges that make it easier for students to transfer credits. While the Education Department requires schools to post on their websites basic information about transferring, the agency stops short of making schools disclose articulation agreements online. Some schools list the schools they partner with, but nearly a third of the colleges the GAO reviewed did not.

In a letter responding to the GAO report, Acting Assistant Secretary Kathleen Smith said placing special emphasis on articulation agreements could seriously mislead students because the lack of such partnerships is not a true measure of whether credits will transfer.

A community college could have articulation agreements with a number of local four year colleges; but there could be many other colleges that will accept most, if not all, of the credits earned by students at the community college, she wrote. A student who sees the few schools with articulation agreements listed on the schools website will think that he/she will not be able to transfer credits to any other school.

Smith did agree, however, that the Education Department must do more to provide students and their families with general transfer information, as recommended by the GAO. She said the Office of Federal Student Aid will flesh out the information provided on StudentAid.gov.

Even with transfer agreements between schools, students arent guaranteed a smooth transition. A National Student Clearinghouse Research Center study of students who entered community college in 2007 found that only 42 percent of those who transferred earned a bachelors degree within six years of starting school. The results also varied by state and income level, with just a third of low-income community college students earning four-year degrees.

Several state higher education systems, including those in Tennessee, North Carolina and Texas, are using innovative strategies to streamline the transfer process. The University of California system, for instance, has guided pathways that chart the sequence of courses needed to transfer. Some schools, such as George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College, offer dual enrollment for some majors.

While the GAO noted difficulties in transferring course credits across the higher education landscape, the problem was most acute for students coming out of for-profit colleges. Students who moved from private for-profit colleges to public schools lost an estimated 94 percent of their credits, while those moving between public colleges -- the largest population of transfers -- lost roughly 37 percent of their credits, according to the report.

The closure of for-profit colleges ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian College exposed the challenges students face in trying to get public and nonprofit private colleges to accept their credits. In the days following ITTs collapse, the Education Department pleaded with community colleges to welcome the schools former students.

A part of the problem is for-profit schools are typically nationally accredited, whereas public and private nonprofit colleges are regionally accredited, and prefer to accept credits from other regionally accredited schools, the GAO said. National accreditation is seen as less stringent than regional accreditation, and the coursework at career schools can be difficult to transfer because of the focus on vocational education.






The Michigan Pipeline Safety Advisory Board unanimously recommends Michigan Technological University to organize and lead state universities in an independent risk analysis of the Line 5 Straits Pipelines.

The Michigan Pipeline Safety Advisory Board (PSAB) voted unanimously today to recommend Michigan Tech be placed at the helm of a risk analysis of the Straits pipelines, two parallel 20-inch pipelines that form the 4.5-mile section of Line 5 that runs beneath the Straits of Mackinac. If the State agrees with the recommendation, Michigan Tech would collaborate with other state universities to analyze the environmental and economic impacts of a worst-case scenario spill or release.

Michigans universities would be working together to provide the data, says Guy Meadows, director of Michigan Techs Great Lakes Research Center. Michigan Tech would lead the process because of our extensive knowledge of the Straits of Mackinac region and its complex flows, and would determine the best ways for the best people at Michigans universities to contribute.

Preventing the Worst

On July 26, 2010, Michigan experienced the largest inland oil spill in U.S. history when a pipeline known as Line 6B burst and spilled heavy crude into a tributary of the Kalamazoo River. In the spills wake, national attention focused on oil transportation safety, including that of the Line 5 pipelines. Built in 1953 and currently owned by Canadian natural gas distributor Enbridge, Line 5 runs from Superior, Wisconsin, to Sarnia, Ontario, Canada.

In 2015, the Michigan Petroleum Pipeline Task Force, a multi-agency group established after the 2010 spill, issued a report that made 13 recommendations, including the establishment of the PSAB and the commissioning of two studies: a risk analysis and an alternatives analysis for the Straits pipelines portion of Line 5.

The alternatives analysis has been completed and a draft report was released for public comment on June 29, 2017. The risk analysis was halted three months ago, however, when the State terminated its contract with Dat Norske Veritas (DNV), the third-party contractor conducting the analysis, due to a conflict of interest.

When looking to replace DNV, Meadows says, the State wanted to find a group that understood the full picture. Meadows had been serving on the PSAB as the representative of state universities, but recused himself from voting when Michigan Techs name came up for consideration. If the State agrees with the recommendation, Meadows will resign from the board to lead the risk analysis process.

Michigan taxpayers funded three-fourths of the Great Lakes Research Center for this very purpose, says Meadows. In this role, we would be fulfilling our promise to address complex problems facing the Great Lakes on a data-only basis and to make recommendations to decision makers based on a complete picture.

Great Lakes Research Center at Michigan Technological University

Examining the Data

In conducting the risk analysis, Michigan Tech and the state universities would be tasked with analyzing:

The environmental fate and transport of oil or other products released from the Straits pipelines in a worst-case scenario,

How long it would take to contain and clean up the worst-case release,

The short- and long-term public health and safety impacts,

The short- and long-term ecological impacts, and

Potential measures to restore the affected natural resources and mitigate the ecological impacts.

The group would also estimate the amount of natural resource damages that would result from a worst-case release, the governmental costs that would be incurred as a result of a worst-case release, and all other economic damages  public and private  that would result from a worst-case release.

While conducting the analysis, Michigan Tech and their university partners would prepare a draft report and hold at least one public information presentation on the draft analysis. The team would then consider and respond to comments on the draft report before preparing the final report.

The Pipeline Safety Advisory Board recommended Michigan Tech because the people of Michigan need a data-driven solution, says Glenn Mroz, president of Michigan Technological University. That's what scientists and engineers do. We ask questions, gather the evidence and analyze the data to understand the big picture.

Michigan Tech and the other universities would be under contract to the State of Michigan, not to Enbridge. Enbridge would pay for the analysis, but would have no control over the analysis itself. When the final report has been issued, the State will require Enbridge to maintain an adequate financial assurance mechanism to cover liability for all damages or losses to public and private property in the event of a worst-case scenario. The State has the authority to do so under the 1953 easement that granted permission for the pipelines construction.

Michigan Technological Universitys enabling legislation calls on the University to provide the means for Michigan residents to acquire knowledge that will contribute to industry, Meadows says. By conducting this analysis, wed be getting to the heart of what Michigan Tech was created to do.

Next Steps

Michigan Tech and partners, once under contract, would have six months in which to complete the independent risk analysis and would seek comments from the public at designated check-in dates. These dates, as well as the process by which state universities can submit proposals for participation and names of experts in specific areas within the State's published scope of work for the risk analysis, will be decided upon and publicized in the near future when Michigan Techs role is finalized.

Michigan Technological University is a public research university founded in 1885 in Houghton, Michigan, and is home to more than 7,000 students from 55 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigans flagship technological university offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, computing, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, social sciences, and the arts. The rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.
More details have come out regarding the return of Chris Vance in Hawaii Five-O Season 8 that will premiere in early October. His character, British spy Harry Langford, will appear in episode 2 titled Kau pahi, kou kua. Kau pu, kou poo (Your Knife, My Back. My Gun, Your Head).

Harrys expertise will be needed in a special mission the Task Force will be involved in. Based on the Hawaii Five-O Season 8 episode synopsis, the murder of the boss of a major crime family triggers revenge killings across the island according to Cartermatt. The team enlists the help of the British spy and what he brings to the table remains to be seen.

The synopsis also revealed that Steve (Alex O'Loughlin) and Danny (Scott Caan) will be sorting out particulars in their new restaurant venture. It has been previously reported that it is something that they look forward to be doing when they retire. It was actually more of Dannys idea which Steve sort of hitched on.

It is speculated that over the course of Hawaii Five-O Season 8, the two will be figuring out if they can actually pull it off. They may be able to realize if they can move towards that direction when they leave the service.

For fans who started to worry that this may very well signal Steve and Dannos retirement soon, EP Peter Lenkov said that it will be a long-term thing reports TV Line. He explained, And who knows  the way theyre sort of going at each other, and given their different points of view with regards to building this business as something to retire into, it may never even happen!

Meanwhile, fans are aware of Daniel Dae Kim (Chin) and Grace Parks (Kono) departure from the series after they failed to secure equal pay against their co-stars. In Hawaii Five-O Season 8, will see the addition of new characters, Tani Rey (Meaghan Rath) and Junior Reigns (Beaulah Koale). The series returns on September 29 on CBS.

 2015 MusicTimes.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
GET OUR APP Our Spectrum News app is the most convenient way to get the stories that matter to you. Download it here.
A Titusville man is accused of stabbing a woman and beating her three children Saturday morning, police said.

Man accused of stabbing woman, beating her children

Child called 911 and said someone attack their mother

Woman and children taken to hospital

Hector Miguel Matos-Medina, 33, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, aggravated child abuse and battery.

Police responded at about 10 a.m. to a home in the 1300 block of Wilderness Lane after a child called 911.

The child told dispatchers that someone attacked their mother, authorities said.

Matos-Medina strangled and stabbed the woman before beating her children, striking one with an iron, investigators said.

The woman and her children were taken to a hospital.

Within two hours after the attack, police located Matos-Media and arrested him. He was booked into the Brevard County Jail.

Investigators said that Matos-Medina knew the woman and her children.
It is back to school for thousands of students across Central Florida Monday, one week since Irma slammed into the state.

Most students in Central Florida going back to school

Some schools saw various degrees of damage

RELATED: Power outage updates, maps

Classes resume Monday in Brevard, Flagler, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia and counties.



For many teachers and students, little changes will be noticed, but others will see damage and impacts.



Students who use the West Orange Trail to get to Apopka Middle School will have to find another route. That is because flooding from Irma overwhelmed a storm drain, causing it to collapse.

A section of the West Orange Trail between the track field and bus depot was taken out. The district does not expect the hole to get any bigger, however the school itself is not structurally damaged.

Irma hit the stadium at West Orange High School as well, causing damage to the track, bleachers and billboard.

West Orange High is the only Orange County school that may just have partial power Monday.

Lake and Polk county schools will have to wait until Tuesday to go back to class.

Because students missed a week, each district is figuring when those days will be made up.
Just over a week after facing the wrath of Hurricane Irma along its northern coast, the island of Puerto Rico is bracing for a direct hit from Hurricane Maria.

Puerto Rico bracing for direct hit from Hurricane Maria

Donations collected to be delivered to the island

Volunteers hope the supplies make it in time



Donation drives are already underway to try and get supplies to the island.

Volunteers at First Baptist Church in Orlando spent Sunday afternoon loading a shipping container with donated food and water.

Church member Peter Vivaldi is one of the organizers of the donation drive.

Twenty thousand pounds of supplies will be driven to the Port Jacksonville and loaded on a cargo ship for the 1,100-mile trip.

The plan is to deliver the goods before the latest threat, Hurricane Maria, slams into the island. Vivaldi says he hopes the supplies make it to Puerto Rico before Hurricane Maria hits. However, there is a problem.

Rumors are that the ports will be closed by tomorrow. If that does happen, the boat will probably sit out in the ocean until that storm passes by," Vivaldi said. "The earliest it would get there then would be Thursday morning."

In the meantime, Vivaldi said he is already organizing another donation drive for after Maria passes and emergency officials begin to assess the damage.

Vivaldi says he is hoping that Central Floridians will be willing to donate extra food and water and other items they stored for Irma, and now dont need.
HART -- After revisiting the property tax rate for 2017, the Hart City Council voted to adopt the effective tax rate, which is $0.416 per $100 valuation. At the regular council meeting on Aug. 10, the Council on first reading set the tax rate at the rollback rate of $0.45 per $100 valuation.

After the August meeting, a representative of the media contacted the Castro County Appraisal District and was told that the rollback rate is an increase over the $0.45 rate; however, that information is not correct. The rollback rate is $0.45. Had the council stayed with the rollback rate, state law requires that public notices be published before a required public hearing. The 2016 rate is $0.45. Because property values have increased, primarily because of values for a grain elevator inside the city limits and utilities -- specifically Xcel Energy, according to the CAD, the effective rate is less than the 2016 rate of $0.45. The rollback rate would have raised an additional $109,000. The effective rate results in the same amount of revenue as the 2016 rate, along with any new construction during the year.
Wayland Baptist University is encouraging high school students to register for the Plainview Education Partnership (PEP) tuition assistance program. PEP contracts are due in the Wayland Admission Office by Oct. 13.

Juniors at Plainview High School, Plainview Christian High School and homeschool students residing in Plainview are eligible to enroll in the program that provides tuition assistance for the first two semesters at Wayland immediately following their high school graduation. High school juniors enrolling in the PEP program this fall will be eligible to receive tuition assistance during the Fall 2019 and Spring 2020 semesters.
PLAINVILLE  The Travel Channel will be filming at J. Timothys Taverne Monday for the show Food Paradise.



The restaurant announced the filming of the show on its Twitter account Sunday. The show will be filming from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.



Food Paradise features must-stop food stops with unique dining experiences across the country. The show is in its eighth season and has included food destinations from Hawaii to Virginia.



This isnt the only time the Plainville restaurant has been featured on a food show. Last year, the Food Network included J. Timothys in its Top 5 segment for the best bar food.






PLAINVILLE  Before the state car seat law changes next month, the Plainville Police Department will be hosting a safety event.



The program will be held Saturday, Sept, 23, at the fire department on West Main Street, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.



Existing car seats will be checked for proper installation and parents and guardians will be able to learn about best practices when it comes to keeping their young riders safe.



Its definitely a big deal, its taken very seriously, said Police Det. Matthew DAmore.



The new law, in effect Oct. 1, requires children to stay rear facing until they are 2-years old and 30 pounds rather than the current law of 1-year old and 20 pounds.



Car seats will be given out while supplies last by appointment.



More information can be found by calling DAmore at 860-747-1616 ext. 338



akus@record-journal.com 203-317-2448 Twitter: @KusReporter






A man was arrested shortly after undercover deputies from Marin County learned of his drug operation while chatting in a hotel hot tub, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

The aforementioned events were described in a search warrant affidavit obtained by the newspaper last week. According to the affidavit, the initial encounter played out as follows: A women and two men were relaxing in a hot tub at a Courtyard by Marriott in San Diego. They struck up a conversation with a fellow hotel guest, Andrew James Harris. When Harris asked the reason for their stay, one jokingly replied their crack lab had blown up. But Harris apparently didn't get the jest; he admitted that he, too, was in the drug business.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Legal troubles continue to dog Stan Bates, who next month is scheduled to stand trial with State Sen. Carlos Uresti on criminal fraud charges relating to a bankrupt oil field services company.

Bates and his latest venture, Bates Energy Oil & Gas, are accused by a Kansas company of backing out of a deal to lease 170 rail cars to transport frac sand  used in hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, to produce oil and gas.

On May 18, a day after Bates and Uresti were arrested for their involvement in FourWinds Logistics, a now-defunct frac sand company, Bates informed Caldwell-Baker Co. of Gardner, Kansas, that he was scrubbing the deal for the rail cars.

Contract is Cancelled, and without receiving payment Contract is not activated, Bates wrote in an email, according to a court document filed last month in Kansas.

Caldwell-Baker sued Bates and Bates Energy for breach of contract, fraudulent misrepresentation and negligent misrepresentation on May 22. Last month, Caldwell-Baker filed a motion for summary judgment, asking the court to rule in its favor and award it more than $640,000.

Under the terms of the lease for the rail cars, Caldwell-Baker said its not required to terminate the lease even when a default occurs. It has chosen to enforce performance under the lease.

Bates has been identified in another court case as Bates Energys CEO and not its owner. David Bravo, the companys chief operating officer, was identified as an owner.

We have denied the allegations set forth in the complaint, said Justin Johl, an attorney for Bates, Bravo and Bates Energy. He declined to comment further.

Linus Baker, lawyer for Caldwell-Baker, which is owned by his family, said the company didnt learn about Bates legal troubles until after he canceled the contract.

We found out later and connected the dots, that he got indicted and  he tried to say he wasnt going to perform this lease, Baker said. Just kind of an odd deal. He added that Caldwell-Baker would not have done the lease without personal guarantees from Bates and Bravo because it didnt know them. Caldwell-Baker typically leases rail cars for transporting grain, not sand.

In the FourWinds criminal case, Bates, 45, Uresti, 54 and Gary Cain, a FourWinds consultant, 61, are accused of developing a Ponzi scheme to market frac sand. They allegedly made false representations to solicit investors. They have denied the allegations. The trial is set for Oct. 23.

Two months after the indictments, Bates Energy became embroiled in litigation with Utah-based Complete Oil Field Services. Bates Energy accused Complete Oil in a July 20 lawsuit in Bexar County district court of rejecting attempted deliveries on 40,000 tons of sand and refusing to approve the disbursement of escrow accounts holding almost $4 million altogether.

Complete Oil sued Bates Energy on Aug. 2 for failing on numerous occasions to deliver sand to the Utah company. Bates Energy exhibited a pattern of lying, fraud and blatant misrepresentations while attempting to steal money  by demanding payment when it knew no sand would be delivered, the suit said.

Complete Oil added that Bates Energy succeeded in absconding with approximately $40,000 of escrow funds without delivering any sand.

In Caldwell-Bakers lawsuit, the company alleges that Bates or Bravo in April emailed a proof of funds letter to the company that stated Bates Energy held about $4.9 million in escrow at JPMorgan Chase Bank and Amegy Bank. The proof of funds letter was written by Dewayne Naumann, the suit says. Naumann is owner of Equity Liaison Co., an Austin escrow company.

Baker said he believes Caldwell-Bakers lawsuit Complete Oils lawsuit each reference the same escrow money.

Complete Oil moved its litigation with Bates Energy to federal court last month. Last week, Complete Oil filed an amended lawsuit that added Naumann and Equity Liaison as defendants. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez issued a a temporary restraining order preventing Naumann and Equity Liaison from removing money from the escrow account. The judge scheduled a hearing on Monday on Complete Oils request for a preliminary injunction.

Rodriguez also ordered Naumann and Equity Liaison to immediately provide a detailed accounting of all monies held by Equity Liaison through the escrow agreement with Complete Oil.

Were concerned that Naumann and (Equity Liaison) are colluding with Bates, said Lamont Jefferson, a lawyer for Complete Oil.

A call to Naumann was not immediately returned. Court documents show he has his own financial difficulties. He allegedly failed to pay a home equity loan, which led a federal judge to issue a default judgment in June. Naumann has appealed the judgment.
Northrop Grumman Corp.s $7.8 billion purchase of Orbital ATK Inc. will expand its space and missile businesses just as the U.S. steps up efforts to defend against a possible strike by North Korea and threats in the Middle East.

The deal cements a turnaround for Northrop, which had been the target of breakup speculation before it scored an upset win in 2015 to build the next U.S. stealth bomber. The transaction, the largest in the defense industry in two years, adds rocket propulsion, missile-defense and satellite expertise to Northrops capabilities as a major U.S. weapons maker.

Buying Orbital would make Northrop the fourth-largest Pentagon contractor, displacing Raytheon Co., according to Bloomberg Government. Orbital stands to benefit as the U.S. expands a ground-based missile-defense program that Northrop already supplies with command-and-control systems. U.S. contractors have soared this year on prospects for greater weapons spending under President Donald Trump.

As we watch whats happening around our globe, the rather rapid advance of some of our potential adversaries is quite concerning, Northrop Chief Executive Officer Wesley Bush said on a conference call with analysts to discuss the transaction. This issue of technological superiority for the U.S. and our allies is a real issue. Its something that our customers are struggling with.

The deal ranks as the largest in the defense industry since Lockheed Martin Corp. bought Sikorsky Aircraft in 2015. Together, Northrop and Orbital got about $14.6 billion from Pentagon contracts last year, about half of their combined sales.

Orbitals expansive position in missile defense would solidify Northrops place in a growing market, Cowen analyst Cai Von Rumohr said in a note to clients.

While there is limited overlap between the companies, the tie-up, coming weeks after aerospace manufacturer United Technologies Corp. announced a $23 billion acquisition, will test the Trump administrations tolerance for consolidation among prime defense contractors. Under President Barack Obama following the Sikorsky deal, the Pentagon had signaled that it would frown on such deals because they were reducing competition.

Given that Northrop already operates in the space field, it is possible that there could be some overlapping activity or increased vertical integration that could prompt regulatory scrutiny, Robert Stallard, an analyst at Vertical Research Partners, said in a note to clients. We have also not had a prime contractor acquisition under the current U.S. administration, and so this is a test case as to whether concerns over the scale of the primes is still an issue.

Orbital holders will receive $134.50 a share in cash, the companies said in a statement, representing a 22 percent premium over Orbitals closing price last week. Monday, it closed at $132.25. The total transaction is valued at $9.2 billion, including the assumption of $1.4 billion in net debt. Northrop rose to $275.97 on Monday.

Orbital provides the booster rocket that carries a Raytheon warhead for the U.S. ground-based missile defense program. The Pentagon is proceeding with plans announced several years ago to expand the number of interceptors by December to 44 from 36 today.

The move adds a new wrinkle to Northrops competition with Boeing Co. to develop the next ground-based missile interceptor system in the U.S., a contract that could be worth as much as $85 billion. Orbital has also designed propulsion systems on Minuteman III missiles in the past.

Orbital is a leader in solid rocket propulsion while Northrop is strong in sensors and networks, enabling a comprehensive ballistic missile defense solution, Jefferies analyst Howard Rubel said Monday in a note to clients.

The acquisition marks a bold bet on growth for Falls Church, Virginia-based Northrop, which has recently focused on returning cash to shareholders through stock buybacks and dividends. Bush hinted at the change in July, telling investors during the second-quarter earnings call that he was looking for acquisition opportunities to expand the contractors business.

Orbital will operate as a fourth business unit within Northrop following the close of the transaction, expected in the first half of 2018, the companies said. The deal is expected to add to Northrops earnings in the first full year after closing and to yield annual pretax cost savings of $150 million by 2020, according to the statement. It is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by regulators and Orbital shareholders.

Orbital, which has about 13,000 employees, was formed in 2015 through the combination of Orbital Sciences and Alliant Techsystems. The Dulles, Virginia-based company competes to hoist payloads to space with Space Exploration Technologies Corp.s Falcon 9 and United Launch Alliances Atlas family of rockets.

Orbital CEO David Thompson could get as much as $15 million in severance, benefits and equity awards, based on the transaction price, if hes dismissed.

The payout would include $5.94 million in severance and a prorated target bonus of $855,000, according to the proxy statement. He also holds equity awards worth $7.95 million at the $134.50 offer price that would vest early, some of which are prorated and tied to performance conditions, data compiled by Bloomberg show.

S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings said they may downgrade Northrop on the debt burden it will incur through the deal. S&P placed Northrops ratings on Creditwatch with negative implications, citing a significant deterioration in the companys metrics. Moodys Investors Service affirmed its Baa1 and Baa2 senior unsecured debt ratings.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. committed to provide a senior, unsecured bridge facility of as much as $8.5 billion related to the deal, according to a regulatory filing. Northrop said Monday it will seek to maintain a strong credit rating and will use cash flows to help reduce debt.

Bankers from Perella Weinberg Partners are advising Northrop Grumman, while Cravath, Swaine & Moore is the companys legal counsel. Citigroup is advising Orbital, with Hogan Lovells US as legal adviser.
A thief made off with a San Francisco sheriff deputys service pistol from a parked car, after the deputy failed to secure the firearm in violation of department policy, Sheriff Vicki Hennessy said Monday.

The break-in was reported at 6:30 p.m. Sunday in the Potrero Hill neighborhood. The off-duty deputy, whom Hennessy did not identify, had left the 9mm Glock 17 handgun in the trunk of a parked rental car, she said.

Department policy states that if a deputy must leave a gun in a vehicle, it must be stored in a metal lock box fixed to the interior of the car and out of public view, Hennessy said. The department has opened an internal investigation into the matter, she said.

Im disappointed that the policy wasnt followed, the sheriff said. I am aware of all the issues with auto break-ins, and I am concerned. I reissued the policy again this morning to make sure that people understand it, and I think this is something we have to continually reiterate to our staff and our employees. This is something we cant take lightly.

Guns stolen from law enforcement vehicles have been used in a number of shootings in recent years in the Bay Area, as vehicle break-ins continue to skyrocket in San Francisco and other cities. Through the end of July, 17,970 car burglaries had been reported across San Francisco this year, a 28 percent jump from the same period last year.

A revolver taken from a San Francisco police officers personal vehicle last month was used three days later in the killing of 23-year-old Abel Enrique Esquivel Jr. in the Mission District. Erick Garcia-Pineda and Daniel Cruz, both 18, and Jesus Perez-Araujo, 24, were charged with murder. The actions of the officer who owned the gun, which was recovered, are under investigation.

In July 2015, a gun stolen in San Francisco from a car belonging to a U.S. Bureau of Land Management agent was used to kill 32-year-old Kate Steinle on Pier 14. In response, state legislators passed a law that requires law enforcement officers to pay fines of up to $1,000 if they fail to properly lock up guns in unattended vehicles  a rule civilians have had to follow for some time.

Under the law, all gun owners must secure their weapons in a locked trunk or in a locked container out of view.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors, meanwhile, considered passing an ordinance making it a misdemeanor for off-duty law enforcement officers to fail to properly secure firearms in unattended vehicles in the city. But the board ultimately exempted city police officers and sheriffs deputies, as long as their departments enforced internal policies, while extending the law to civilians.

Hennessy could not comment on whether the deputy could face charges, but said, The San Francisco Police Department has a report, and they will forward it to the district attorney for a charging decision.
A woman was shot in the leg early Monday in the Mission District of San Francisco when she refused to turn over her wallet and cell phone to a robber who jumped out of car and accosted her and two friends, police said.

Now Playing: Comparison of 2016's violent crime stats from major Bay Area cities Video: Ted Andersen, SFGATE

The shooting occurred just before 1 a.m. in the 200 block of Capp Street, police said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Two persons of interest in the slaying of a young couple in June 2016 have been sentenced to prison in Mexico on drug-related charges, according to Nuevo Leon authorities.

Francisco Villarreal Jr. and Ernesto Rodriguez Jr. were recently sentenced to three years in prison for drug trafficking with intent to distribute after a trial in late June, according to a spokesperson with the Nuevo Leon attorney general's office.

Villarreal is no stranger to serving prison time. He was released from a Texas prison in February 2016 after serving a sentence for aggravated robbery.

READ MORE: Timeline sheds light on escape, eventual capture of man charged in Ochoa Sanchez park homicide

Laredo police said Villarreal and Rodriguez are persons of interest in the killing of George O. Rodriguez, 20, and Alondra Gutierrez, 19. Both were found dead in an empty lot in the Lakeside Subdivision on June 26, 2016. No charges have been brought in the case.

Nuevo Leon authorities arrested Villarreal and Rodriguez in October after a shootout with police. Each was charged with possession of cocaine.

The shootout happened when agents patrolling Colonia Tecnologico in Monterrey, Mexico, saw a man on a black NINJA-type motorcycle exchanging bags with Villarreal and Rodriguez.

Police said the motorcyclist had a gun in his waistline. When confronted, he fled while Villarreal and Rodriguez took cover in some nearby apartments. Authorities said they fired shots at police officers.

MORE FROM LMTonline: McDonald's employee fired after asking customer 'Can you spell deportation?' in viral video

Police fired back, wounding Rodriguez in his right leg, according to reports. Authorities said they seized two handguns from Villarreal and Rodriguez, 77 doses of cocaine, plastic baggies containing marijuana, two digital scales and a black briefcase.

Warrant for arrest

Following a shooting on June 13, 2016, LPD issued warrants for the arrest for Villarreal and George Rodriguez, charging each with aggravated assault with a firearm. Police said Villarreal and Rodriguez arrived at the residence of Esteban Yruegas in the 3600 block of Galveston Street to allegedly collect a quota, or tax, from him for selling drugs.

Shortly after they arrived, Villarreal shot Yruegas, police said. His injury was non-life threatening.

Homicide suspects

Police named Yruegas as a homicide suspect less than two months later in relation to the death of Cesar Javier Sarmiento, 44.

This week, LPD said there are active arrest warrants for Yruegas and another man, Pedro Vasquez, in connection to Sarmiento's death.

Police said Vasquez and Yruegas gunned down Sarmiento in the 3300 block of Guerrero Street, outside a mobile home equipped with a surveillance system. Sarmiento sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his head, chest and abdomen area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said Vasquez is the owner of the mobile home where the July 26, 2016, shooting occurred. He and Yruegas are currently fugitives from justice, according to police.
An accident Sunday night near Batson in Hardin County claimed the life of 39-year-old Brian Sumrall, a veteran firefighter with Houston Fire Department's Station 44 and senior captain of Batson Volunteer Fire Department.

Sumrall, a resident of Batson, was traveling southbound on FM 770 about two miles from Batson on a Kubota tractor when he was hit from the rear by a Chevrolet pickup driven by Joe Patton, 35, of Hull. Sumrall was ejected from the tractor and died at the scene. Patton suffered minor injuries.

According to Chief Fred Yust with Batson Fire Department, Sumrall's last act was in service to his community. He was on his way to load hay into the vehicle of a cattle owner impacted by Hurricane Harvey flooding.

"Brian would have done anything for anybody. It didn't matter who it was," Yust said. "He would give you the shirt off his back. He was just that kind of guy."

Just two weeks ago during Harvey, Sumrall helped pull people from their flooded homes in the Batson area and assisted drivers who were cut off by water and stranded in Batson.

"Brian was an EMT, too. He and I rescued one woman who couldn't get out of her house. She had medical problems and Brian comforted her and kept taking her vitals until we could get her to a hospital," Yust said.

A cowboy, Sumrall also saddled up during the storm to rescue animals stranded by the rising floodwaters and then organized their food and veterinary care.

"We were still passing out hay and medicines he had helped collect. He was all about caring for the animals and taking care of everybody," Yust said.

Working with cows and horses was something he enjoyed doing just as much as firefighting, the chief said.

"He liked doing things the old-fashioned way when it came to being a cowboy. He was sentimental for the old way of life and wanted to keep the old stuff going with horses and cows," Yust said.

Following Sunday night's accident, Batson firefighters responded to the emergency call, arriving on the scene to find it was one of their own who had died. Yust said the department is taking the loss hard.

"He is going to be dearly missed by us all. It is rough. Fortunately Saratoga firefighters came over and assisted us afterward. We stayed there to the end but they handled everything for us," Yust said.

Afterward, the firefighters gathered at the fire station in Batson to share their grief.

"We talked and reminisced. We had about half of his Houston fire station come out to visit with us, his wife, Rana, and son, Gavin," Yust said. "Brian was an extraordinary firefighter and a good friend to us. He will be missed by many."

Houston Fire Department has not responded to requests for comments at this time. An update will be posted as warranted.
NEW HAVEN  The Connecticut Supreme Court has denied a motion by Angelo Reyes attorney to reconsider its June decision affirming Reyes conviction for arson and other charges concerning two intentionally set fires in Fair Haven.

But Norman Pattis, Reyes attorney, has filed a petition for a new trial, claiming evidence that would probably have resulted in a jury finding Reyes not guilty was not made available during his trial.

Senior Assistant States Attorney John P. Doyle Jr., who successfully prosecuted Reyes in his New Haven Superior Court trial in October 2014, said he had no comment on Pattis petition because he does not talk about pending litigation.

But Doyle said, Mr. Reyes was given a fair trial. Were happy with the decision of the Connecticut Supreme Court.

New Haven Superior Court Judge Jon C. Blue in January 2015 sentenced Reyes, now 52, of New Haven, to serve 15 years in prison. But Reyes has avoided going to prison during his appeals process because he was allowed to post an appeal bond. This latest state Supreme Court decision, issued Sept. 13, could lead to Blue or another New Haven Superior Court judge ordering Reyes to be incarcerated.

Pattis said Monday, We remain hopeful the state will listen to reason so that Mr. Reyes can stay out (of prison) while we litigate his new trial petition.

The Superior Court jury found Reyes guilty of all five counts he faced: two charges of second-degree arson, two counts of conspiracy to commit first-degree criminal mischief and one count of conspiracy to commit first-degree burglary.

The fires were set in 2008 and 2009. One occurred at a house at 95 Downing St. and the other in a car in front of 979 Quinnipiac Ave.

During the trial, Doyle said Reyes ordered the house burned because he wanted to take it over and profit from its use. Doyle said Reyes wanted the car burned because he was having a dispute with the vehicles owner, who wanted to open an outreach program for local drug addicts in an empty parking lot near Reyes laundromat.

Doyle stated in his trial arguments that the fires forced 35-40 firefighters to risk injury or death.

Pattis had asked the state Supreme Court to reconsider its unanimous June 6 decision against Reyes because just five of the seven justices heard the arguments. Although this is not unusual, Pattis wanted all seven justices to consider the case.

In its Sept. 13 decision, the justices order stated: The motion of the defendant-appellant for reconsideration/reargument, having been presented to the court, is hereby ordered denied.

Reyes has maintained throughout the long legal process that he had nothing to do with the fires being set. He told Blue at the sentencing hearing he has spent two decades making a positive difference in the community.

But Blue told Reyes there is a very dark side to your character.

In his petition for a new trial, Pattis noted Reyes was convicted based on testimony of two witnesses who cooperated with the state while also being co-conspirators in the arsons: Osvaldo Segui Sr. and Osvaldo Segui Jr. The state said Reyes paid the two men, who were his employees, to carry out the arsons.

Pattis said in his petition that at no point during the trial were prosecutors made aware of the fact that the Seguis were, in fact, associated in a criminal enterprise (narcotics sales) with a local man.

Pattis quoted a person alleging that this local man stated he used the Seguis to set fires for him.

State and federal law enforcement agents were aware of the connection betweeen the Seguis and the local man at the time of the trial, Pattis wrote. However, the agents never turned over this information to either state or federal prosecutors.

randall.beach@hearstmediact.com
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

STAMFORD  The citys flood protection barrier may be raised ahead of Hurricane Jose, the first storm in an active season to make its way up the Atlantic toward Connecticut.

The barrier  which protects the city from tidal surges and flooding during major storms  was last put in place in March for a winter storm, city officials said. Boats cannot enter Stamford Harbor when the barrier is raised.

The latest in a string of powerful hurricanes, Jose, a Category 1 storm as of Monday night, is not expected to make landfall in the Northeast, nor is it expected to bring weather conditions beyond moderate rain and wind gusts. The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm watch for coastal Connecticut Tuesday into Wednesday, forecasting up to 1 inch of rain, 40 mph wind gusts and potential flooding.

City officials have been communicating with state and federal officials about the storm, but do not expect it to cause major damage  nothing close to Harvey and Irma, which devastated Texas, Florida and the Caribbean. Western Connecticut is expected to get less rain than the eastern part of the state.

For the city of Stamford, as it looks right now, this is going to be a rain and little bit of wind event. Nothing that we dont normally get in a bad storm, said Trevor Roach, Stamfords fire chief who also assumes the role of emergency management director during severe storms.

Jose could still down trees and wires, causing widespread outages. Assume any wire on the ground is live and stay away, Roach said.

The biggest protection here during any major storm is the Stamford Hurricane Protection Barrier, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The barrier was erected after hurricanes in 1938 and 1954 caused millions in damages. Completed in 1969, it has prevented nearly $40 million in flood-related storm damages over 600 acres since 2011, according to the Army Corps.

Trevor on Monday afternoon said the Army Corps was still waiting out the storm, whose winds were sustained at 85 mph in the Atlantic. The Army Corps Facebook page said it could be in place as soon as Monday night. Maintenance scheduled for this week has been postponed.

Because it blocks the harbor and all commercial traffic, they only put it up when they think theres going to be a surge event, when we think theres going to be a noreaster or hurricane, Roach said.

Public safety director Ted Jankowski said the Army Corps would raise the barrier during high tide Tuesday through Wednesday.

We ask that residents sign up for emergency notifications through CT Alert and be prepared for high winds, coastal flooding and for possible power outages, Jankowski said.

The city advises residents to secure outdoor property, clean debris from storm drains, move any valuables in flood-prone basements and assure basement pumps are in working condition.

Roach already has his eye on Hurricane Maria, the latest storm heading to the Caribbean.

Its been a very active year for hurricanes in the Atlantic, so were watching every storm that comes out and well keep people notified if theres something to notify them of, he said.

For us, this is still early in the hurricane season, he said. We normally dont see anything until late September, early October.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the direction the barrier moves in when it is put in place. The barrier is raised, not lowered. Ships are unable to enter Stamford Harbor when the barrier is raised.
On a hot, sticky May afternoon in 1970, a crowd of several thousand students and protesterstook over the University of Maryland mall. Many were there to protest the Vietnam War. Others were hoping to catch a glimpse of a famous Hollywood actress. Her name was Jane Fonda.

As the war raged, the one-time blonde bombshell cut her naturally brown hair short, trading sex appeal for liberal activism and rebranding herself as a political crusader against the war. On campus, she was pushing her movement to turn U.S. soldiers into pacifists. "The Army builds a tolerance for violence," she shouted at the crowd. "I find that intolerable."

The Washington Post spent that day with Fonda, following her and a dozen or so students to Fort Meade in Maryland, where they planned to hand out antiwar leaflets to soldiers. She was arrested before she got the chance, just as she had been at Fort Lewis, Washington, Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Fonda told The Post she'd made talking to GIs her full-time job.

For the next several years, Fonda would continue as one of the most prominent public faces in the antiwar movement. But it wasn't until she traveled to Hanoi in July 1972 that she really enraged critics and fundamentally altered how the world viewed her for decades to come.

This weekend, filmmaker Ken Burns's 10-part documentary on the Vietnam War began airing on PBS. Burns said the project is an attempt to heal old resentments. Although he didn't interview Fonda, the film looks at her controversial 1972 visit to Hanoi.

Fonda's transformation from actress to activist began several years earlier. She was active in the Black Panthers and marched for the rights of American Indians, soldiers and working mothers. But she was advised by other activists to focus her political energies, deciding to go all-in as an impassioned voice for the antiwar movement.

She and actor Donald Sutherland started an "anti-USO" troupe to counter Bob Hope's famous shows for the troops. They called it FTA, which they said stood for Free the Army, but it was also a not-so-subtle nod to the expression "f- the Army."

By July 1972, when Fonda accepted an invitation to visit North Vietnam, America had been at war overseas and with itself for years. She went to tour the country's dike system, which was rumored to have been intentionally bombed by American forces - something the U.S. government to this day forcefully denies. During her two-week stay, Fonda concluded that America was unjustly bombing farmland and areas far flung from military targets. North Vietnamese press reported - and Fonda later confirmed - that she made several radio announcements over the Voice of Vietnam radio to implore U.S. pilots to stop the bombings.

"I appealed to them to please consider what you are doing. I don't think they know," Fonda said in a news conference when she returned home. "The people who are speaking out against the war are the patriots." She said the radio addresses were the only way to get access to American soldiers, because she was barred from meeting them at their bases in South Vietnam.

In Hanoi, Fonda also met with seven American POWs and later said they asked her to tell their friends and family to support presidential candidate George McGovern; they feared they'd never be freed during a Richard Nixon administration. Rumors spread and still persist that she betrayed them by accepting secret notes and then turning them over to the North Vietnamese. The POWs who were there have denied that this ever occurred.

But the action that still enrages veterans most was that photograph of her with the Viet Cong on an anti-aircraft gun that would have been used to shoot down American planes. This, probably more than anything, earned her the nickname "Hanoi Jane."

After Fonda returned from her trip, the State Department spoke out against her.

"It is always distressing to find American citizens who benefit from the protection and assistance of this government lending their voice in any way to governments such as the Democratic Republic of Vietnam - distressing indeed," said State Department spokesman Charles W. Bray, according to a July 1972 Reuters story.

Some lawmakers called her actions treason. Congress held hearings. The Veterans of Foreign Wars passed a resolution calling for her to be prosecuted as a traitor.

Perhaps most dramatically, in March 1973, the Maryland state legislature held a hearing to have Fonda and her films barred from the state. Democratic Del. William Burkhead said, "I wouldn't want to kill her, but I wouldn't mind if you cut her tongue off," according to a Post story.

Fonda wasn't deterred. She continued openly to question the accounts of the U.S. government and American POWs, who told devastating stories of the torture they endured at the hands of the North Vietnamese.

"These men were bombing and strafing and napalming the country," she said, according to an Associated Press report in April 1973, which quoted an interview she gave to KNBC-TV in Los Angeles. "If a prisoner tried to escape, it is quite understandable that he would probably be beaten and tortured."

Over the years, as Fonda reinvented herself as a fitness maven and again a movie star, she apologized many times for the anti-aircraft gun photo. But she maintains she was not a traitor by speaking out against the war or trying to turn soldiers against it, because she still believes the U.S. government was lying to them.

In her 2005 memoir, "My Life So Far," Fonda wrote of the infamous photo this way:

"Here is my best, honest recollection of what took place. Someone (I don't remember who) leads me toward the gun, and I sit down, still laughing, still applauding. It all has nothing to do with where I am sitting. I hardly even think about where I am sitting. The cameras flash. I get up, and as I start to walk back to the car with the translator, the implication of what has just happened hits me. Oh, my God. It's going to look like I was trying to shoot down U.S. planes! I plead with him, You have to be sure those photographs are not published. Please, you can't let them be published. I am assured it will be taken care of. I don't know what else to do. It is possible that the Vietnamese had it all planned. I will never know. If they did, can I really blame them? The buck stops here. If I was used, I allowed it to happen. It was my mistake, and I have paid and continue to pay a heavy price for it."

Still, for some veterans, no apology from Fonda will ever change their views of her as an adversary of America and the troops during wartime. In 2015, about 50 veterans stood outside the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick, Maryland, to protest Fonda's appearance there. They held signs that read "Forgive? Maybe. Forget? Never." and booed people attending the event, according to the Frederick News-Post.

Fonda told the audience that their protests saddened her.

"It hurts me," she said, "and it will to my grave that I made a huge, huge mistake that made a lot of people think I was against the soldiers."
WILTON  After retiring from politics  three terms in the state House of Representatives and two in the State Senate  John Atkin began learning how to act. He wanted to parlay his love of public speaking and literature into theater, and so hed gather with a handful of students in the back room of Norwalks Crystal Theatre for lessons from actor and playwright Doug Taylor.

Atkin remembered that Taylor would kill the fluorescent lights in favor of the warmer glow of an incandescent bulb, and in that circle of light their classes would begin. Often, they would study scenes from Arthur Millers plays, practicing them line by line. And in his minds eye, Atkin can still see Taylor listening to him intently before issuing his verdict: No.

Hed say, Youre just not getting the beats, John, said Atkin. And thats when I began to realize that if I ever wanted to be a director, I had to understand the biographies of my characters. I couldnt read the lines as John Atkin. I had to inhabit Willy Loman, he said, referring to the main character of Millers Death of a Salesman.

Roughly 20 years later, Atkin has brought that lesson to a production of another of Millers plays, A View from the Bridge, which is playing at the Westport Community Theatre until Oct. 1. I think that was the beauty of this cast, Atkin said. They put in the time and wrote the bios of their characters and really understood them.

A View from the Bridge tells the story of an American family living on the Brooklyn waterfront. They decide to harbor two cousins from Italy, who travel to New York without documentation in order to find work and send money home. When one of the immigrants and the familys 18-year-old niece fall in love, tensions begin to arise and relationships are re-examined.

The stage is split into three arenas  the apartment where most of the action takes place, an attorneys office where immigration law is explained and morality debated and a telephone booth that lies dark until a pivotal scene.

Youll find yourself creeping closer and closer to the edge of your seat, Atkin told the audience at the beginning of the show. He was right  audible gasps were heard throughout the theater during last Sundays performance.

Afterward, Atkin said a couple from Red Hook, a waterfront neighborhood in Brooklyn not far from where the play takes place, came up to him and to say how accurate the actors were in their demeanor and speech. Atkin said it was both an affirmation of the acting and of Millers writing, which captures the rhythms of the areas conversations.

Thats what tickled my fancy  the intricacies of his writing. Atkin said as he has gone from reading and watching Millers plays to acting out scenes and eventually directing this show, he has continuously discovered new meaning.

Atkin said that since the show opened on Sept. 15, hes had many people come tell him theyre still wrestling with some of the themes.

A lot of themve said to me, That was great. Now I have a lot to think about, said Atkin. Thats the interesting thing about these older plays: Theyre still kind of current. Over 60 years after the play was first written, many of the issues it explores  including immigration, sexuality and the tensions between justice and the law  feel as fresh and relevant as ever.

I love Miller, and while this plays not as well known as The Crucible and Death of a Salesman, its just as iconic and powerful as any of them, Atkin said.

The show will play at the Westport Community Theatre, in Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. until Oct. 1. An additional show will be played on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 8 p.m.
Protesters angrily confronted House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., on Monday - and she tried in vain to quiet them - about her emerging agreement with President Donald Trump to provide legal protections to young undocumented immigrants.

In a dramatic exchange in her hometown of San Francisco, Pelosi and Reps. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., and Jared Huffman, D-Calif., appeared at an event designed to call on Congress to immediately pass the Dream Act, bipartisan legislation that would enshrine legal protections for hundreds of thousands of "dreamers" into law. But after Pelosi spoke, about 40 protesters walked up to the front of the room and started shouting, taking over an event where Lee, Huffman and other activists had yet to speak.

She had just recounted to the crowd details of a dinner meeting last week with Trump and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., where they discussed crafting an agreement that would couple the Dream Act with unspecified plans to bolster security along the U.S.-Mexico border. The deal would allow the roughly 700,000 people enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program to stay in the country after the program ends in early March. Trump pulled the plug on the Obama-era program last month, calling on Congress to make the legal protections permanent by law.

"We made it clear that we cannot have any trust and conversation unless we address the Dream Act passed," Pelosi said that she told Trump, adding later that she wants the bill "to be the basis of how we go forward. We have made it clear: We are not giving up our fight to protect America's dreamers from the cruelty of deportation."

As she concluded her remarks, roughly 40 people rushed the stage and started chanting loudly while Pelosi, her security detail, Lee and Huffman watched. They identified themselves as "undocumented youth" - presumably beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program or other dreamers.

"We are not a bargaining chip!" the protesters chanted, according to local reporters.

"All of us or none of us," they said later.

The protesters demanded "a clean bill" - meaning that the Dream Act would get an up-or-down vote on its own without any language regarding border security attached. They "demanded" that Pelosi show a commitment to protecting "all 11 million" undocumented immigrants believed to be in the country.

"We demand accountability. Democrats are not the resistance of Trump. We are!" they shouted.

One male protest leader then started a call and response with the group, addressing Pelosi directly and pointing his finger at her: "Congresswoman Pelosi! You called this press conference in our name to defend the so-called Dream Act," they said.

"First you said you supported a clean Dream Act. And last week you announced that you had agreed and I quote you, 'To work out a package of border security.' Your words. Or were you misquoted? We cannot say, however, that we are surprised," they added.

They also complained that the Obama administration had systematically deported hundreds of thousands of people."

"Where was your resistance then?" they asked.

"Okay, you've asked your questions," Pelosi said, cutting in.

But they kept shouting, so she let them continue shouting.

"You've asked some questions. You've asked some questions!" Pelosi shouted.

"Let us speak! Let us speak!" they shouted in reply.

"You have," she said.

After nearly 30 minutes, Pelosi and other invited speakers departed.

The protesters were identified as members of the local chapters of RISE, Faith in Action and the California Youth Immigrant Justice Alliance, according to Pelosi aides. The activists are among the most progressive and vocal protesters and their tactics are not widely employed at similar events nationwide.

Pelosi is not the first - and likely won't be the last - Democratic official to be confronted by immigration activists. Several times over the course of his presidency, young immigration rights protesters shouted at President Barack Obama during official events, campaign rallies or campaign fundraisers. Given their distance from the president, he usually succeeded in shouting them down or U.S. Secret Service escorted them from the room.

In this case, Pelosi had to stand by, with cameras rolling, as they continued shouting. Her own official Facebook page had been live-streaming the event and her aides encouraged out-of-town reporters to watch it, but the feed cut out as the protesters persisted.

Speaking with reporters later, Pelosi said the protesters were "completely wrong" to blame Democrats for the nation's current struggles to enact comprehensive immigration reform.

"The Democrats are the ones who stopped their assault on sanctuary cities, stopped the wall, the increased deportations in our last bill that was at the end of April, and we are determined to get Republicans votes to pass the clean DREAM Act," she said. "Is it possible to pass a bill without some border security? Well, we'll have to see. We didn't agree to anything in that regard, except to listen and something that deals with technology or something like that - but nothing like a wall."

"I wish they would channel some of that energy into the Republican districts so we can pass the Dream Act," Pelosi added later.

Asked whether the protesters she faced were emblematic of wider Democratic Party concerns about her discussions with Trump, Pelosi said that from a political standpoint, she has no choice.

"Trump has the signature. And basically our conversation with Trump is, we don't want to hear about anything that you may want to do unless we have shared values around the dreamers. And that's our threshold," she said.

Back in Washington, talks to sort out the specifics of the deal sought by Trump and Democrats are set to begin this week, but senior congressional aides said Monday that they had no details yet on plans to begin the talks or what they would focus on - if they ever commence.
Chanting pro-immigrant slogans  All of us or none of us, Democrats deport and We are not a bargaining chip  more than 60 young people overwhelmed a news conference that House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi had organized Monday on her home turf in San Francisco to urge passage of the Dream Act to protect immigrants who were brought to the country as children.

After nearly an hour of boisterous chanting by protesters who described themselves as undocumented youth, Pelosi and fellow House Democrats Barbara Lee of Oakland and Jared Huffman of San Rafael packed up and left as the carefully orchestrated event fell into disarray.

The uproar started as Pelosi finished her opening remarks ahead of several planned speeches from recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, which the Trump administration rescinded last week. Soon after that, Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said they came to an agreement with Trump on the framework for a bill that would protect DACA recipients while beefing up border security.

The dozens of demonstrators unfurled large signs reading Fight 4 All 11 Million and Our Dreams Have No Borders as they stormed the front of the room at College Track San Francisco on Third Street and encircled the California lawmakers. Pelosi stood uncomfortably, trying to open a discussion with the group only to be repeatedly shouted down.

Where were you when we asked you to defend our parents? the group said, using a call-and-response cadence popular during the Occupy movement. And now you tell us  you have the audacity to tell us  you have been fighting deportation. You are a liar! You are a liar! You are a liar!

The group called on Pelosi to fight for a clean bill that doesnt make concessions to Trump. Luis Angel, one of the demonstrators, said he fears negotiated trade-offs could sell out the roughly 11 million immigrants who are in the U.S. without legal status, even while helping the 690,000 DACA recipients.

Pelosi eventually walked outside to briefly address reporters before leaving.

This group today is saying dont do the Dream Act unless you do comprehensive immigration reform, she said. Well, we all want to do comprehensive immigration reform. ... I understand their frustration  Im excited by it as a matter of fact  but the fact is, theyre completely wrong.

Pelosi pointed out that Democrats have been fighting Trumps efforts to build a costly border wall with Mexico and his assault on sanctuary cities, while seeking to stem an immigration crackdown aimed at increasing deportations. But the incursion by the youth group highlighted continuing divisions on the left over immigration policy and whether Democrats should try to work with Trump when possible.

I know some people think this hurts the cause of undocumented folks, but undocumented people will always be scapegoated, said Luis Serrano, one of the groups organizers. Pushing Democrats to take a more progressive stance is how we got DACA in the first place. We believe in pushing people who say theyre on our side, not those who are not.

When Trump ordered an end to the Obama-era DACA policy this month, he called on Congress to pass legislation that would protect recipients, though he did not specify what such a bill should include. Pelosi and Schumer joined Trump on Wednesday for dinner to discuss a potential bipartisan deal on the Dream Act in a rare moment of cooperation between Democratic leadership and the president.

The dinner didnt sit well with many of those who confronted Pelosi.

We feel we will be a bargaining chip for Trump to add more border enforcement, and for Democrats to look good, Serrano said. Its a win-win situation for them but not us  the people that are going to be affected.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @evansernoffsky
In the past few centuries, the Catholic Church has authenticated just over a dozen apparitions, visions of the Virgin Mary that have appeared to French nuns and schoolchildren, Portuguese shepherds and Rwandan youth, and inspired millions of pilgrims to visit shrines and churches scattered in small towns across the world.

Mary appeared 18 times at Lourdes, in southern France, in 1858. She revealed herself to a group of children six times in Fatima, near Portugal's western coast, in 1917.

In all, according to the Catholic priest Rene Laurentin, Mary has reportedly appeared more than 2,400 times since the Middle Ages, in visions described by children in the former Yugoslavia and by a man in Marlboro, New Jersey, who said he saw the mother of Jesus while seated on a plastic bucket in his backyard.

Father Laurentin, a French theologian who died Sept. 10 at 99, was perhaps Catholicism's preeminent scholar of contemporary miracles and Marian apparitions. A student of the French philosophers Jacques Maritain and Henri Bergson, he combined a sense of academic rigor with a religious faith shaped by World War II, when he was captured by Nazi forces in Belgium and imprisoned for five years.

"He possessed the solidity of the theologian, the seriousness of the historian [and] the agility of the journalist," wrote Lourdes rector Andre Cabes in a statement on his death.

Laurentin specialized in Mariology, the study of the Virgin Mary, but his columns for France's Le Figaro newspaper and his scores of books often ranged far afield. He investigated the story of Richard Thomas, a priest in Texas who supposedly multiplied tins of condensed milk to feed the masses. And he studied the claims of Greek Orthodox evangelist Vassula Ryden, whom Laurentin called "the most authentic mystic living in the world today."

But he was best known for his studies of Lourdes, which he began in the early 1950s after the town's presiding bishop, Pierre-Marie Theas, urged him to take on the project with the admonition "Lourdes needs only the truth."

Laurentin spent more than a decade combing the archives for documents surrounding 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous, who said she had been instructed by Mary to build a chapel at a cave near the town, and presenting the story of the apparitions in a way that balanced scholarship with literary style.

The effort proved remarkably successful, at least in the eyes of the bishop. "Nothing so beautiful or luminous has ever been written," Theas wrote after reading Laurentin's first volume, "The Meaning of Lourdes" (1955). "Really, after reading you, we know better the solidity and the seriousness of the pilgrimage. You reveal the mystery of Lourdes and its place in the life of the Church."

Laurentin went on to publish a seven-volume compendium of documents about the Lourdes sightings, as well as a six-volume "Authentic History of the Apparitions."

About that time, he also served as a consultant to the preparatory commission for the Second Vatican Council, which began in 1962, and participated as a scholar, taking notes on the proceedings at a time when the church was facing questions over Mary's role in the faith.

For some, Mary was a divinity, much like Jesus, and Catholicism's most important saint. She became a particularly popular figure during the papacy of John Paul II, whose Latin motto - totus tuus, totally yours - referred to Mary, and who was nearly killed in 1981 during an assassination attempt that he said was thwarted by a Marian intervention.

Yet Laurentin, whose expertise was increasingly put to use as reports of apparitions increased in the 1980s and '90s, resisted placing an outsize emphasis on Mary. "Mary is the model of our faith, but she is not divine," he told the New York Times in 2000. "There is no mediation or co-redemption except in Christ. He alone is God."

Rene Laurentin was born in Tours on Oct. 19, 1917, to an architect father.

Laurentin - he was ordained in 1946 - studied Thomist philosophy at the Catholic University of Paris and philosophy at the Sorbonne. He received a doctorate from each school after his army service, for which he received the War Cross, and later served as a professor of theology at the Catholic University of Paris and the Catholic University of the West in Angers, France.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes announced his death but did not provide additional details.

Laurentin was often asked whether he believed in particular apparitions, a contentious question for a priest, let alone a bishop - the first person charged with adjudicating claims of supernatural occurrences.

The church, Laurentin wrote in one essay, used four criteria to grant recognition to a supernatural occurrence: whether the message of the apparition is in accordance with Christian teachings; the seer is "sincere, credible, coherent and disinterested"; acts of healing or physical signs of a supernatural presence occur; and long-term religious conversions follow from the incident.

Even when an occurrence has been recognized, Laurentin noted, individual Catholics were not obligated to believe. Belief as a whole, he said, was entirely out of his purview - though he seemed more sympathetic than many Catholic priests and scholars in his opinion of Medjugorje, a town in the former Yugoslavia where Mary has allegedly appeared each day since June 1981.

"If someone asks me if I believe in Medjugorje, I say, 'I am not obliged to answer to this question.' I am an expert; I examine reasons in favor and reasons against," he told a priest in 2003. "Let each one judge for himself and let [the] Church judge for all of us."
Up until Monday, the CIA had never publicly released the full name of its legendary spy. Even former director George Tenet couldn't completely identify him for his 2007 bestselling memoir, "At the Center of the Storm," which reveals only his first name and last initial: Greg V.

Within the halls of Langley and in the pages of prominent newspapers, Greg V. enjoyed his fair share of lore. When the U.S. military accidentally bombed the location of Hamid Karzai in December 2001, it was Greg V. who reportedly dove on top of the future Afghanistan president, saving his life.

But on Monday, on the 70th anniversary of the agency's founding, the CIA let the world know that Greg V. is officially Greg Vogle, in a ceremony honoring him as the 83rd recipient of its Trailblazer award. Journalists, national security professionals, and foreign governments had long known Vogle's name. The New York Times, in fact, was the first news organization to publicly reveal it in 2015, over the CIA's objections, in a story about the agency's personnel who oversee drone strikes. (Ironically, Vogle's first appearance in the mainstream press was botched: The Times misspelled his last name as "Vogel.")

Vogle, who lives in the Washington region and retired in 2016 as the head of the agency's covert operations branch, follows a long history of CIA officers - some unsung, some senior managers - who have won the Trailblazer, the agency's equivalent of a Hall of Fame award. The medal honors officers and teams of officers who "by their actions, example, innovation, or initiative have taken the CIA in important new directions and helped shape the agency's history," according to the agency's announcement.

Launched in 1997, the award has been given to current, former and deceased operatives. Recently, the agency's museum unveiled a small exhibit that provides a history of the Trailblazer award. Some of the previous winners include some of the CIA's most admired directors:

- Gen. Walter Bedell "Beetle" Smith, who in the 1950s instituted Langley's directorate system, dividing the work between analysts and operatives.

- Allen W. Dulles, director from 1953 to 1961, who spearheaded the building of the CIA's sprawling headquarters in Northern Virginia, and established the standards for clandestine tradecraft and handling human asset handling.

- Richard Helms, the first career intelligence professional to become director, who recruited and supervised some of the CIA's most important spies during the Cold War. Helms might be the only Trailblazer to have been convicted of a federal crime: In 1977, he pleaded no contest for failing to testify fully before Congress about the agency's role to push out Chile's leftist regime. But the plea was viewed like a badge of honor among CIA veterans who believe agency personnel shouldn't be spilling agency secrets to anyone, including Congress. Happily, a group of CIA retirees paid his paid Helms' $2,000 fine.

Other Trailblazers never became director, but achieved their own renown, such as: Tony Mendez, an expert forger and disguiser, who concocted a fake movie to help spirit six U.S. diplomats out of Iran in 1980 - a ruse dramatized in the 2012 Ben Affleck film, "Argo." Or, Robert Ames, a leading Arabist who cultivated as a source a top Palestinian intelligence officer. In 1983, Ames was killed in a truck bombing in Beirut, and was given the agency's ultimate honor: a star on the agency's white marble Memorial Wall.

But there are other, less well-known recipients who made their mark in equally important ways:

- Omego J.C. Ware, Jr., an African-American officer who grew up in Washington, and was picked in the 1970s to become the first director of the agency's office of equal employment opportunity. Known as the "Jackie Robinson of Intelligence," Ware pushed the mostly-white CIA at the time to increase the hiring of minorities and women.

- Elizabeth Sudmeier, who joined the agency at its 1947 founding, and four years later, entered the clandestine service as one of the branch's few women members. She specialized in the Middle East, and even recruited an agent with knowledge about Soviet fighter aircraft and other hardware. Sudmeier always planned to rendezvous at local coffeehouses, where the agency would supply her with volumes of technical equipment that she would get copied and return. In the 1960s, she was given an Intelligence Medal of Merit, but only after her colleagues protested over "whether it was appropriate for a female who was not listed as an operations officer" to win the award, according to the CIA. After she retired, she remained loyal to the CIA, frequently cancelling her subscription to the Washington Post whenever her former employer came under scrutiny she deemed unfair.

- Eloise R. Page, a Richmond, Virginia native, who began as a secretary to the OSS, the CIA's precursor, and later transferred to the CIA, eventually becoming the agency's first female station chief in 1978, assigned in Athens. She also became the third-highest ranking officer in the vaunted directorate of operations.

Vogle's contributions have been written about extensively in CIA memoirs. In Tenet's book, "Greg V." was the CIA contact in late 2001 for Hamid Karzai, then a tribal leader opposing the Taliban. On Nov. 3, 2001 as Karzai's tribe came under increasing attack, he called Vogle, asking for a helicopter extraction.

"Greg quickly contacted CIA headquarters and made the case that Karzai represented the only credible opposition leader identified in the south. His survival, Greg said, was critical to maintaining the momentum for the southern uprising," Tenet recalled.

Soon, Tenet said, the airlift got the greenlight.

Two weeks later, with Karzai in a new location, the Taliban found him again. This time, Karzai's forces got skittish and ran away.

"Greg V. took command of the situation, sprinting from one defensive position to another, telling the Afghans that this was their chance to prove their worth and make history," Tenet wrote. "'If necessary, die like men!' he shouted. Backbones stiffened; Karzai's forces repulsed the Taliban attack."

On Dec. 5, Vogle, a former Marine, may have saved Karzai's life. The Afghan leader was commanding his troops into Kandahar, a Taliban stronghold. As U.S. military air strikes were being ordered, one soldier apparently swapped out the batteries for his GPS device, forgetting that his machine would reset itself at its own location. It was a disastrous move: A circling B-52 dropped a 2,000-pound bomb on the soldier's own position, killing three Americans and five Afghans.

"Karzai might have [died], too, if Greg V. hadn't thrown himself on him, knocking him to the ground just as the bombs struck," Tenet wrote. "It turned out to be an eventful Wednesday. That same day, he was selected to be the interim prime minister of Afghanistan."

But the story might have been inflated. Gary Schroen, a CIA officer sent into Afghanistan shortly after the Sept. 11 attacks to pursue al-Qaida, wrote in his own 2005 memoir, "First In" that "Craig" was actually launched into Karzai from the bomb's blast. The men were in a meeting, surrounded by a map and teacups, when "a tremendous wall of air and heat traveling at incredible speed smashed into and through the building, crumbling the walls and slamming [Vogle] into Karzai, tumbling the two like rag dolls across the room," Schroen wrote.

After it was over, Vogle, a career paramilitary officer, crawled to Karzai, lying twisted on the floor, and pulled him onto his back. He felt for Karzai's body for any major wounds or broken bones, but only found small cuts and quickly forming bruises. Schroen wrote that Vogle "felt as though he had been hit by a truck; his entire body ached and tingled. . . .He did not know what happened except that something big had exploded close by."

Vogle continued playing a major role as an envoy between Karzai and the American government, all under the cloak of anonymity. In 2010, the Wall Street Journal profiled Vogle, without using his name, calling him a "pivotal behind-the-scenes power broker in Kabul." Recently, the agency rolled back his cover, freeing itself to name Vogle. Now, the former undercover operative has his own bio on the web site of The Third Option Foundation, a non-profit that provides financial assistance to the families of fallen agency special operations officers.

In its announcement Monday of Vogle's Trailblazer award, the CIA was deliberately vague and understated about the man's accomplishments. It listed his numerous agency awards and included a statement from CIA Director Mike Pompeo calling him a "true agency hero." But there was no photograph released and no mention, for instance, of his attempt to save the life of Karzai. Or other acts of derring-do the former spy might have pulled off.

"Details of his many accomplishments," the press release said, "remain classified."
Back in June, House Speaker Paul Ryan warned those rooting for a tax code overhaul against getting whipsawed by punditry from the cheap seats.

"You will hear that tax reform is coming along. You will hear that it is dead. Then you will hear it is back on track. Then you will hear it is on life support. Sometimes you will hear all of this in the same week, the same day, or heck, even the same hour," the Wisconsin Republican said in his first major speech on the subject. "But I am here to tell you: We are going to get this done in 2017."

Ninety days later, few would suggest the process is on track - and wrapping up work this year looks like an exceedingly long shot.

To recap, statement that the Big Six tax negotiators released at the end of July and billed as an update on their hunt for consensus reflected more about where they disagreed: It formally buried the border adjustment tax that Ryan and House Ways and Means Chairman Kevin Brady, R-Texas, favored as a source of $1 trillion in new money to pay for lower overall rates.

President Donald Trump was meant to spend the August recess making the public case for action; instead, blowback from his response to the Charlottesville, Virginia, tragedy overwhelmed the month. Congressional staffers back in Washington aimed to start putting pens to paper for a September markup that will not be happening.

Now, at a moment when the principals driving the debate should be nailing down details, they are instead revealing that their areas of shared agreement may only be getting fuzzier. Consider:

- Ryan last week abandoned months of promises that the effort wouldn't add to the deficit, telling the Associated Press that the most important goal of the effort is economic growth. As the AP's Erica Werner wrote, "Asked twice whether he would insist the emerging tax plan won't pile more billions onto the $20 trillion national debt, Ryan passed up the chance to affirm that commitment. GOP leaders made that 'revenue neutral' promise in a campaign manifesto last year and many times since."

- Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, derogated the Big Six talks in which he's participating, declaring at a Finance hearing that the group "will not dictate the direction we take in this committee," and adding that his panel would not act as a rubber stamp. "Any forthcoming documents may be viewed as guidance or potential signposts for drafting legislation," he said. "But, at the end of the day, my goal is to produce a bill that can get through this committee. That takes at least 14 votes, and hopefully we'll get more." (And on Friday, Hatch told CNBC that the effort will be "much harder than health care.")

- A framework coming at the end of the month will specify a corporate rate, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Thursday, but it's not clear what else. Brady said tax negotiators are still talking about what targets they can agree on.

- One particularly key figure outside the Big Six - President Donald Trump - is injecting new uncertainty into the debate by courting Democratic support. That has GOP leaders working, "sometimes awkwardly, to project leverage over efforts to rewrite the nation's tax laws," as The Washington Post's Sean Sullivan and Mike DeBonis write.

- To end-run Democrats, congressional Republicans need to adopt a budget, and there's little evidence of emerging agreement on how to do that. As Brady told House Republicans at a meeting last Wednesday, according to Politico, "No budget, no tax reform."

- The Koch network, a potentially critical partner for the GOP in making the public pitch for an overhaul, is taking sides in an internal Republican debate over whether it should include an expensive new write-off for capital investments. The conservative powerhouse's opposition to the border adjustment tax helped sink that pillar of the Ryan-Brady approach.

- The House is out this week; Senate Republicans look poised to spend the week returning to health care.

- Republicans have not even gotten to the tough stuff yet. The chore of finding new revenue is what generates all of the political pain in the process. The resistance to the BAT indicated the enduring truth of that. And the party hasn't yet settled on any replacements. One proposal to gin up new funds - a repeal of the deduction for state and local taxes - is being met with howls of protest from Republicans in high-tax states.

"I intend to fight it with everything I know how," Rep. Tom MacArthur, R-N.J., told DeBonis.

But the battle over concrete proposals has to be joined before he can wage that fight.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The Pentagon deployed a formation of 14 bombers and fighters over the Korean Peninsula on Sunday that also included South Korean and Japanese aircraft, the latest show of force in response to North Korea's missile launches and nuclear tests.

The warplanes were dispatched after North Korea launched a ballistic missile over northern Japan on Thursday, triggering a widespread emergency alert for those who call the region home. Two Air Force B-1B bombers from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam and four Marine Corps F-35B fighters from Iwakuni, Japan, combined with four South Korean F-15K fighters and four F-2 Japanese fighters, U.S. defense officials said.

The aircraft carried out a simulated attack on the Pilsung training range in South Korea, a few dozen miles from the demilitarized zone separating the North and South, while using live bombs. The U.S. and Japanese jets also flew in formation over waters near Kyushu, Japan, a southern portion of the country that is the closest major island to the Korean Peninsula.

The show of force came as President Donald Trump prepared to deliver remarks for the first time this week at the United Nations General Assembly. The escalating standoff between the United States and its allies and North Korea prompted U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley to say that if the United States exhausts its diplomatic options to stop North Korea, military force remains an option.

"If North Korea keeps on with this reckless behavior, if the United States has to defend itself or defend its allies in any way, North Korea will be destroyed," Haley told CNN in an interview that aired Sunday. "And we all know that, and none of us want that."

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Friday that North Korea continues to deepen its diplomatic and economic isolation with its provocative actions.

"More and more nations are realizing there's simply no collaboration with the international community," he said. "There's a dismissal of international concern, unified U.N. Security Council concerns."

The U.S. military released 24 photos of the latest show of force, an apparent message to North Korea and the international community.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Van Choate drove his catering truck into a ruined trailer park off Texas 12, as his daughters, Caylin and Cameron, followed in a small van loaded with smoked and seasoned whole chickens, already roasted and wrapped in plastic and stuffed into large black bags.

The crew from Tuffy's Eatery, which Choate and his wife, Josette, own and operate, passed out the free food to people who lost everything and in most cases had nowhere to go.

"Mauriceville is hungry," Choate said in his animated, almost non-stop patter about the great need in the flooded neighborhoods.

Saturday was Choate's second day of passing out the rotisserie-cooked chickens.

"They're seasoned, too. They're really nice," he said. "It's our duty to go and give."

The 3,200 pounds of whole, organic, free-range chickens were donated by Ayrshire Farm, an organic farm in Upperville, Virginia.

Choate picked up 600 birds and fired up his rotisseries and his employees cooked chicken for seven hours straight.

Ayrshire Farm's generosity was in response to inquiries from Rebel Rescue in Alexandria, Louisiana.

The organization was contacted through social media by Jen Lewis, director of operations for the Golden Triangle Emergency Center in Port Arthur, which wanted to feed first responders like National Guard soldiers, state troopers, police and firefighters.

Ayrshire arranged to truck the shipment trucking part of the way to Southeast Texas through Wholesome Foods of Edinburg, Virginia, and the rest of the way through Wolverine Trucking of Michigan.

Tuffy's did not flood, but it's

been closed since the flood wiped out large parts of the Mauriceville area.

Choate began delivering to hard-hit neighborhoods on Friday and kept going Saturday.

Because many can't get out - their cars were flooded - he brought them food, with a smile, and connection to humanity after a disaster.

Jean Gros and her husband Eddie live in one of the mobile homes in the park that flooded for the first time in their experience.

Floodwater covered pickups to their cab tops, they said. Air conditioning units were submerged. Interiors had to be gutted. Along Texas 12, evidence of their neighbors' flood damage lined the road for several miles.

Items not moved to top shelves were inundated, ripped out and set in piles along the little lane threading between the trailers. Some trailers were spray-painted with an "X" to show they were searched for people.

Ruth Ryan, a next-door neighbor and her kids, Scott, Juan and Yolanda, were still carting out the remains of the destruction within.

A smaller pile of boxes of items that weren't touched by flood will be placed under a tent until the mobile home can be cleaned and reclaimed.

Ryan, a special education teacher at Booker T. Washington Elementary School in Port Arthur, on Friday moved into the new tent city in Port Arthur.

She was at the Red Cross shelter earlier after returning from her native Ohio, where she drove with her children in a Mini Cooper before the storm.

"We lost everything up to the closets," she said.

In Port Arthur, she'll share a tent with two other families. She already checked out the place and is happy with the security and the amenities, including air conditioning. She was already wearing her yellow identification band on her wrist.

"We're grateful to everybody," she said.

Choate's daughters finished their deliveries throughout the park and took off south on Texas 12, turning into the Igresia Evangelica, or "Casa Alabanza," the House of Worship.

Pastor Jose Sanchez, whom Choate knew a long time ago in Rose City, presided over a clean-clothing giveaway for families. Children looked through the formerly neat piles, holding up shirts against themselves to see if they were close to fitting - and looked cool.

The Choates unloaded chickens, and grateful hands accepted the offering. Out came sodas and orange juice, all snapped up.

"We had three feet of water in the building," Sanchez said.

So far, he said he had had donations of insulation and sheet rock, but he needs laminated flooring, too, to cover perhaps 24 feet-by-50 feet for his congregation.

Back at Tuffy's, a cooking team from contractor H.B. Zachry occupied some of Tuffy's parking space, and lines of cars waited patiently to file in for some fried ribs and french fries, Choate said.

Tuffy's will reopen for business on Tuesday.

"We hope to provide a nice experience for people," Choate said. "We've got bands lined up and we'll know what people have gone through and we'll try to make it as nice as we can."

Dan Wallach is a freelance writer.
Leading Midland ISDs communication efforts will be its new executive director of communications, Lacy Sperry.

Sperry comes to the district with more than a decade of experience developing and implementing internal and external communication strategies, according to the district.

The district reports Sperry spent 12 years with Energy Future Holdings, where she began as a corporate communications and media specialist, and most recently was a business development manager for TXU Energy. She managed a portfolio of approximately 250 of the largest accounts in West Texas, according to the district. She has vast experience managing campaigns and providing content to numerous media outlets, resulting in hundreds of positive news stories to date, according to a district press release.

Sperrys beginning salary will be $114,075.32, according to the district. The pay range for the position, according to the districts job profile, was between $98,416 and $127,814.

I have a very clear, concise communication style and can effectively deliver a message in a motivating way, Sperry said in the release. I am looking forward to joining MISD in support of one of the most important efforts of our community, which is educating our future leaders.

The advertisement for the position indicated the person selected for the position will direct the overall communications and government relations programs, coordinate the exchange of information with media outlets and the general public. That person also will develop public relations programs and materials to promote a favorable image of the district and its activities.

I am excited to add Lacy Sperry to our leadership team, Superintendent Orlando Riddick said in the press release. She will bring energy, excitement and years of professional experience to the district.

This is a new position for the district. The previous superintendent, Ryder Warren, handled his own community engagement and had a communications specialist -- paid at a much lower salary -- to provide information to local media and handle other duties.

Sperry has lived in Midland for eight years and has worked with Keep Midland Beautiful and the Midland Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, according to her cover letter and resume.
Middle schools often get overlooked when considering the importance of a child's education.

With elementary school, children are beginning their academic career. It is a time of multiple firsts on their educational journey. With high school comes the transition into young adulthood and preparing for college.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The decision came late at night, when much of the city was already asleep.

With little warning and no evacuation orders, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began releasing water about midnight Aug. 27 from the struggling Barker and Addicks reservoirs, pushing floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey deeper into several west Houston neighborhoods.

Robert Arthur Haines and Cathy Harling Montgomery, both 71, could not escape. They drowned after their Memorial-area homes near Buffalo Bayou began to fill up with water after the dam releases began.

Now Playing: Aerial imagery from Addicks and Barker Dam and Reservoirs captured on Aug. 31 2017. The imagery shows the structures functioning as expected after receiving 32-35 inches of rainfall produced by Hurricane Harvey. (Video by Jay Townsend) Video: Houston Chronicle

"I just want the public to know that the government really screwed up  royally," said Emile Nassar, a flood survivor who is president of the homeowners association at the condominium complex where Montgomery died. "It's only when they opened up the dams that the water started coming."

Corps officials have said they released the water to prevent the reservoirs from overflowing amid heavy rains and runoff in the area. Harris County Flood Control District officials said Friday they did not have data showing how much the releases may have impacted flooding along Buffalo Bayou, but gauges measured more than 5 inches of rain late Sunday evening near the spot where the two spillways converge.

OFFICIALS CRITICIZED: Two elderly dead as Memorial-area residents ask why evacuations not ordered

Questions remain, however, about why evacuations were not ordered for the area and why residents weren't given a warning to leave before the releases started.

City officials  who could have ordered evacuations  said they were told by the Corps that the controlled releases would not cause life-threatening flooding, with only streets expected to be underwater.

Alan Bernstein, a spokesman for Mayor Sylvester Turner, said officials believe they made the right decision at the time in telling people to shelter in place, as the vast majority of flooding deaths occur when people try to move around in floodwaters.

"If you ask people to evacuate into an impenetrable situation, you could be dooming them," Bernstein said.

Harris County Judge Ed Emmett  who could also have ordered evacuations  said the Corps told county officials the controlled releases were the safest option, because engineers "had no idea where it was going to go" if they let the water spill out around the edges of the rapidly filling reservoirs.

HARVEY'S HUMAN TOLL: Each victim's tale carries its own tragic arc

Corps officials declined to comment on the deaths but offered condolences.

"We at the Corps of Engineers offer our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of those who lost their lives during this tragic event," the agency said in an email. "We are not aware of the circumstances of these deaths and so it would not be appropriate for us to comment on them except to say that all of us regret any loss of life during Harvey."

"Life safety is paramount," spokesman Randy Cephus said in the statement.

Angry residents and family, however, said they deserved more notice.

Susan White's parents, Jim and Judy Poston, had only puddles of water at the curb of their two-story home on Langwood after the first bands of rains came through on Friday and Saturday. By midmorning Monday, the water was waist-high, White said.

"They went to bed dry and woke up to, 'Oh, my gosh'," she said.

She arranged for volunteers in a boat to pick them up and their elderly neighbors.

"There was no evacuation order until many days after the whole street was vacated by volunteers," White said.

Some officials acknowledged that more could be done in the future to alert residents.

"I do think we need to have an early warning system for any more releases from the dam," said District G Councilman Greg Travis, who represents many of the neighborhoods that were flooded along Buffalo Bayou.

How Addicks, Barker dams are supposed to work Water flows downward into creeks and streams in Addicks and Barker watersheds, kept behind large earthen dams. The dams control flow into Buffalo Bayou, which keeps downtown Houston from flooding. Too much water on both sides, and the flow is impacted. Thats complicated by the Houston Ship Channel, which is actually pushing water into Buffalo Bayou backwards. This week rising pool levels in Barker Reservoir and Addicks Reservoir spilled over into adjacent subdivisions that sit against the dams, shown below. Map created by data reporter John D. Harden

Source: Harris County Flood Control District

'He shouldn't have died that way'

The bodies of Haines, a retired financial planner, and Montgomery, a retiree with multiple sclerosis, were pulled from their still-flooded homes days after the releases began.

Haines had left messages for his son during the night of Aug. 27 saying more than two feet of floodwaters had entered his home on Langwood; he was found in four feet of water.

On Thursday, a red X  a sign that someone inside had died  was still visible against the chalky-white brick on the one-story home where Haines settled about a decade ago.

Kirby Haines said he last talked with his father around 3 p.m. Aug. 27, the Sunday after the heaviest rains slammed Houston and sent waters rising in Buffalo Bayou.

Kirby Haines said his dad mentioned a problem with his cell phone charger and they agreed to talk later on the home phone. Overnight, however, the elder Haines left two voicemail messages, about a half-hour apart, that his son received the next morning.

The water was rising, he said, and had reached a couple of feet. But Kirby Haines said the messages were informational and the situation did not appear to be life-threatening.

He tried to reach his father all day Monday, however, and couldn't get through.

"He was supposed to have a caretaker with him," he said. "There was no one there to save him."

By Aug. 30, when Robert Haines' husband, Fredricks Haines, tried to return home, he was stopped by floodwaters a mile away. A man with a boat took Fredricks Haines' brother to the house, but they couldn't get into the flooded home.

At that point, Fredricks Haines reported Robert missing to the Houston Police Department. After repeated attempts, an HPD dive team recovered the body on Sept. 8. Four feet of water were still inside the home.

"The whole house was submerged and my husband was in the house," said Fredricks Haines, 34. "He shouldn't have died that way."

'I just heard water'

Five miles away at The Pines condominium complex along Memorial Drive, Montgomery was among hundreds of residents bracing for another deluge that Sunday night.

Nassar, 73, the association president, noticed Sunday evening that a few inches of water had seeped into his first-floor condo at the back of the 264-unit complex.

After sweeping the water out the door, he went to bed about 9 p.m. He had a flashlight handy because the power was out.

Nassar was awakened from a deep sleep about 2 a.m. Monday.

"I just heard gurgle, gurgle, gurgle. I just heard water," he said.

He turned on the flashlight and looked about the room.

"Oh my god, I've got over a foot of water in the condo," he recalled.

Water was rising into other condos, too, including the lower-level unit in the middle of the complex near Memorial City Mall where Montgomery lived alone.

Montgomery's family members could not be reached for comment, but her father, Thomas Jefferson Harling, worked closely with legendary Houston Mayor Roy Hofheinz in the 1950s. Harling later worked as a special education teacher in Galveston, according to his obituary.

Mongtomery's body was found Sept. 7 inside her flood-damaged residence. On Friday, while other units had been cleared, her unit remained full of furniture, with a large television in place and black mold coating the drywall.

Not expected to flood homes

The first public warning from the Corps about the releases came at 2 p.m. on Aug. 27, after a night of torrential rains across the Houston area. Capacity at both reservoirs was shrinking rapidly.

"These structures continue to perform as they were designed to do, which is to protect against flooding in downtown Houston and the Houston Ship Channel," Col. Lars Zetterstrom, the Galveston District commander for the Corps, said at the time.

The Corps is responsible for the dams and reservoirs, which are designed to reduce flood risks downstream.

Initially, the Corps planned to stagger the controlled releases, with the first set for 2 a.m. Aug. 28 from Addicks and 11 a.m. that day for Barker. Then, in a surprise move about 11 p.m. that Sunday, the Corps announced the releases would begin from both reservoirs at midnight, hours earlier than expected. The change was prompted by heavier-than-expected rainfall and runoff into the basins, they said.

The releases started relatively small, at 1,600 cubic feet per second from the dams combined, but increased to the expected 8,000 cfs released. The next day, the releases increased even more to 13,300 cfs from the two reservoirs by Wednesday, and were expected to increase further.

Days later, on Sept. 1, Turner issued a voluntary evacuation of the flooded residential areas downstream, followed by a mandatory evacuation order on Sept. 2. Those orders  aimed at people trying to remain in their homes  were issued because the city could not guarantee rescues could be conducted safely, Bernstein said.

Corps officials said engineers worked closely with the city, county and Texas Department of Public Safety to "provide data regarding the dams and reservoirs to help them make informed decisions for the communities they support."

Further questions sent to the Corps Friday about the decision to make controlled releases were directed to the U.S. Department of Justice, which declined comment.

Nine federal lawsuits, and one state suit, have been filed in the past two weeks seeking compensation from the government for property lost or damaged by the decision to release water downstream. The federal cases have been brought in a specialized U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington, D.C., which could eventually handle hundreds of so-called "takings" cases for lost property. Injured parties have a six-year window to file.

The federal lawsuits assert that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers opened the Addicks and Barker dams knowing the releases would flood homes and businesses.

"It's the largest flood event resulting from a direct decision of a government arguably in our lifetimes," said Justin Hodge, who teaches about imminent domain at University of Houston Law Center and is representing clients in two of the federal cases. "Certainly, it is the largest flood event caused by a decision of the government in our lifetime and in the City of Houston."

No lawsuits have apparently yet been filed in state or federal court over wrongful deaths believed to have been caused by the dam releases. The statute of limitations for those is two years, said David W. Hodges, a personal injury attorney who has represented clients in dozens of wrongful death suits.

Federal officials have declined to comment about the lawsuits.

Brett Coomer/Staff

Looking ahead

As clean-up continues across the city in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, local officials now are looking for ways to improve the response the next time Houston endures catastrophic flooding.

Travis, the district's city council member, said public officials should develop an emergency system like the Amber Alert to notify residents that releases are imminent.

"We should have an alert that goes off to warn people," Travis said.

Both Emmett and Turner are pushing for upgraded dams and possibly more than two, which would diffuse the floodwaters downstream.

"The city has learned that all options should be considered to expand the capacity of the reservoir system to avoid water releases that are unilaterally scheduled by the [Army Corps of Engineers]," Bernstein said in a statement.

If officials had known of the potential flooding to homes, they could have positioned rescue teams in the area, he said. But shelter-in-place would still likely have been the message from city officials.

Residents, however, said this week they want a stronger warning next time.

Hank Bussa, 71, a semi-retired orthodontist who lives a few houses away from Haines' home on Langwood and a block from the Addicks spillway, said he and others deserved a chance to get out.

By 10 p.m. that Sunday, water was near the front door but not inside his home, and seemed to be receding, he said. A little after midnight, he and his wife, Cathy, noticed water coming inside.

"There was water coming in my front door," he said. "I turned around and looked across my family room and there was water coming in my back door. There was water coming into the utility room. The water was coming in from all directions. And it came in fast. We had maybe another 30 minutes and we were wading around downstairs trying to pick up chairs and whatever we could."

Bussa said they tried to salvage their belongings, but lost his grandparents' valuable antique furniture.

"We got no warning," he said. "I could have saved more stuff if I had had a little time."

He and his wife finally waded out of the house the next day when rescuers arrived by boat.

Gabrielle Banks and John D. Harden contributed to this report.

***

Hurricane Harvey claimed at least 75 lives in Texas, including some 50 people in the Houston area. Click here to read the stories of those who died as a result of the storm or medical emergencies in which care may have been affected.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Two pedestrians were struck and killed by vehicles in separate crashes on the Northeast Side Sunday night, including one who had stopped to help the victim of a hit and run, police said.

Lloyd Littrell, 68, was killed around 8:55 p.m. in the 6600 block of FM 78 by a driver in a 2002 silver Chevrolet Trailblazer who drove off after smashing into him, officials said.

RELATED: Police: Man stabbed brother-in-law after kicking him out of West Side home

Littrell had stopped on the side of the road to help a victim of a hit and run crash. Police say he crossed the street in a poorly lit area and was hit by the SUV.

Paramedics found him in critical condition with life threatening injuries and took him to San Antonio Military Medical Center. He died from his injuries at 10 p.m., police said.

Police are searching for the driver of the Trailblazer. If found, the driver will face a charge of failure to stop and render aid.

About 20 minutes after Littrell was struck, 56-year-old Janeen Martin Rae was hit by a driver in a 2007 Jeep Wrangler in the 12400 block of Nacogdoches Road.

RELATED: SAPD investigating second Sunday morning drive-by shooting

Police said Rae was walking across the street in an area without a crosswalk and the driver of the Wrangler didn't see her "until it was too late to stop."

The driver and a witness immediately stopped and tried to help Rae, but their efforts were unsuccessful and Rae was pronounced dead at 9:30 p.m.

It is unclear if the driver will face charges in connection to Rae's death.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

cdowns@mysa.com

Twitter: @calebjdowns
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

More than four weeks after he vanished, a missing Baytown man has been identified as the victim in a gruesome slaying and dismemberment allegedly carried out by his machete-wielding girlfriend, according to court documents.

Cierra Sutton was arrested Thursday after police accused her of shooting a sleeping Steven Coleman and cutting him up with a machete before ditching his body in different dumpsters.

But as of Sunday evening, authorities said the one recovered body part had not yet been positively identified through DNA as Coleman.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Baytown man surrenders after shooting wife in front of kids

"Based off what we learned they appear to be one and the same," Baytown police spokesman Steve Dorris said.

Sutton kicked off the case with a missing persons report on Aug. 18, two days after the slaying police say occurred at Briarwood Village Apartments. When she came into the station to file a report, Sutton told police she'd last seen her boyfriend that Wednesday, when he'd left home around 10:30 p.m.

But Coleman's car was still sitting in the lot outside the couple's shared apartment, and the 32-year-old's mother told investigators she hadn't seen him in at least a week. A friend said she'd spoken to him that Wednesday around 10:20 p.m., when he'd promised to come help look for her daughter - but then he never showed up.

The friend also cautioned investigators that the missing man had allegedly warned her before: If he ever disappeared, police should investigate his girlfriend.

Coleman's neighbors and apartment manager said they'd last seen him the Monday before his disappearance. Afterward, one witness said she'd spotted Sutton moving furniture out of Coleman's apartment, court records show. Another witness told police she'd seen two men help Sutton move stuff into a truck.

That Thursday - the day before Sutton reported her boyfriend missing - a woman matching her description used Coleman's card to buy a foam bed topper and duct tape at a Baytown Walmart, according to a sworn statement filed in Harris County court.

Five days later, a man's torso was found in the Baytown landfill in Chambers County, which takes trash from dumpsters across Baytown and Pasadena. The decomposing pelvis included certain details matching the description Sutton gave police when her boyfriend disappeared.

The week after Coleman's last sighting, police searched the couple's apartment and found it "mostly vacant" with blood traces scattered across the bedroom, kitchen and bathroom.

But as the case dragged on, Sutton had disappeared as well. Before the hurricane, she told Baytown police she'd come talk with them further about the investigation - but then she never showed, according to court documents.

Instead, authorities used an anonymous tipster to help track her down in September, tracing her to Louisiana, where she'd stopped by a Covington home shared by her brother and his girlfriend. Under questioning, the brother's girlfriend told investigators that Sutton had admitted to shooting Coleman in his sleep, then cutting him up with a machete and wrapping the remains in sheets and duct tape, according to court records.

Then, Sutton allegedly loaded the evidence in her Jeep and disposed the pieces at different dumpsters.

When police finally interviewed Sutton's best friend, she and her boyfriend both offered a similar story, claiming Sutton had confessed to killing her boyfriend after an argument  allegedly while her 10-year-old daughter Trinity was in the living room. She'd chopped up his body because he was too heavy to carry, police say she told her best friend's boyfriend.

Sutton was charged with murder and arrested late Thursday in Louisiana. She did not appear to be in the Harris County jail as of Sunday afternoon, and court records do not show any assigned attorney.
Alexandro M. Luna

SAN ANTONIO -- Police detained an individual whom they believe is connected to a Sunday shooting on the far West Side that wounded a man, police said.

Authorities went to the 1400 block of Churing Dr. around 7:40 p.m. after a father and son drove around a neighborhood they used to live in three years ago.
A man died at the hospital after he was shot in the shoulder Monday at an East Side apartment complex, officials said.

Police offered few details on the shooting immediately afterwards, but a police sergeant said the victim, who has not yet been identified, was shot around 12:40 p.m. in the 500 block of Gembler Road.

"He's in bad shape," said Sgt. J Vinson minutes after the victim left the scene in an EMS vehicle. "Very, very critical."

Paramedics took the victim to San Antonio Military Center, where he was pronounced dead at 1:13 p.m.

Now Playing: "He's in bad shape," said Sgt. J. Vinson as the victim was transported to San Antonio Military Center, Sept. 18, 2017. Video: San Antonio Express-News

RELATED: 2 pedestrians struck, killed by vehicles in separate crashes on NE side

Vinson said officers found the victim inside a first floor apartment, though he was unable to say whether anyone else was inside the unit with the victim.

Police said the shooting was possibly self-inflicted, but they're investigating the incident as a homicide because they're getting conflicting stories about the events leading up to the shooting.

"Were trying to piece it together. We don't know how accurate the information is that we got," Vinson said.

At the apartment complex, helicopters hovered overhead to monitor the scene and search for possible suspects.

READ ALSO: Victim identified in alleged Texas dismemberment case

At least one man was detained at the scene by police, though he was not wearing handcuffs.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

cdowns@mysa.com | Twitter: @calebjdowns
On September 23, 1960, North Star Mall, reputed to be only the third enclosed shopping mall in the United States, opened in a relatively undeveloped area north of downtown.

On that day, readers of the San Antonio Express discovered a twenty-page special section inside the paper that described, "60 acres of air-conditioned landscaped shopping comfort". It promised readers they would like the following:
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 5 1 of 5 Google Maps Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Google Maps Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 John Davenport /San Antonio Express-News Show More Show Less 5 of 5









Motorists may want to consider alternate routes at night while crews work on highways and frontage roads throughout San Antonio.

On Monday starting at 9 p.m., all southbound main lanes of Interstate 35 near Schertz will close at Farm-to-Market Road 1103 to set up a work zone. The lanes will reopen 6 a.m. Tuesday.
There is a statue in front of our headquarters building. Written on it is a name  Air Training Command  that sounds antiquated to me, and to the men and women who work here at the now-Air Education and Training Command. The marker is a reminder that our business, the business of recruiting, training and educating the greatest and most lethal airmen in the world, has roots that run deep  deeper, in fact, than the Air Force itself.

This year, we mark two occasions: the 70th anniversary of the Air Force and the 75th anniversary of Air Education and Training Command. I think it is worth examining the past that informs us and the future that drives us.

Our past is brimming with the stories of heroic airmen who have fought in air, space and cyberspace to keep our nation safe. From the 1948-1949 Berlin Airlift  one of our first tests as an independent service  that brought supplies and humanitarian relief to millions in West Berlin, to the decisive display of air superiority in the skies over Iraq in Operation Desert Storm, to the ongoing fight against ISIL  we have been breaking barriers for seven decades.

But behind those stories is always the familiar torch of knowledge lighting the way, and for every airman that starts here in AETC. It is something that our earliest leaders understood.

I am reminded of Gen. Henry Hap Arnold, who recognized the value of training and professionalism in developing airmen. At the time, Air Training Command was a production line like nothing the world had ever seen. The commands 440,000 airmen across 440 bases became so adept at their mission, Arnold boasted they could produce 105,000 pilots a year and train 5,000 mechanics at the same time.

To meet these numbers required the Air Force to access an untapped diversity of talent. We quickly saw one new contributor to our legacy after another: the Womens Army Air Forces, the Tuskegee Airmen, sergeant pilots and aviation cadets. A diverse collection of experiences, ideas and thought helped win the political case for a separate Air Force in 1947. Modern American airpower started in our command and has succeeded through the countless, dedicated efforts of our instructors and staff.

The spirit of their dedication continues, even though the pace of training has changed over time in response to our nations security needs. Missions have come and gone, like at Altus Air Force Base where the community once hosted strategic bombers before the current training mission, or at Laughlin Air Force Base, whose U-2 aircraft were a vital part of information gathering during the Cuban missile crisis. The common thread that weaves through all of AETCs bases throughout time is the unequivocal need for quality training and education that meets commanders needs.

As we commemorate the official mark of our services 70th birthday, my thoughts go to our future. And I can tell you that the future looks bright for AETC!

We will continue the vital work of preparing the next generation of air, space and cyber warriors to meet the challenges of tomorrow by using the lessons of yesterday.

That means taking a look at not just what were learning, but how we learn by reviewing our processes along the entire continuum of learning to best employ our most important resource: our airmen.

That means solving todays challenges from a historically informed perspective, like revisiting the concept of enlisted pilots, currently training to fly remotely piloted aircraft.

By doing these things, we honor our legacy and promise a brighter future to our Air Force and our nation  a future that is symbolized by the statue I can see from my office window, and a future I can assure you will depend on our efforts here in Air Education and Training Command.

Happy birthday, Air Force  airpower  starts here!

Lt. Gen. Darryl Roberson is the commander of the Air Education and Training Command at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph.
The Kendall County judiciary is falling down on its job by refusing to stand behind District Attorney Nicole Bishops efforts to keep drunk drivers off the road.

Plans by Kendalls top prosecutor to enact a no refusal policy when it comes to those pulled over for suspected drunk driving has been a hard sell and that lack of support has foiled plans to seek state grant funding for the program.

No refusal anti-DWI programs have a proven track record, but they cannot work without judicial support. Bexar County has had a highly successful one for many years.

Under a no refusal policy, a law enforcement officer must have a warrant signed by a judge to force a DWI suspect to have their blood drawn to determine alcohol levels if they refuse to take a breathalyzer test. This comes after Supreme Court rulings on the issue.

In Kendall County it has become a heated political issue and a trial run of the program has run aground. The county has eight judges who could handle the warrants. They include the county judge whose job is mostly administrative, four justices of the peace, two municipal court judges and a district judge.

District Judge Bill Palmer who was appointed to the newly created 451st District Court bench by Gov. Greg Abbott in December has a long standing personal policy limiting which warrants he will sign in such cases.

Palmer will not approve warrants for blood draws from first-time DWI suspects unless the field sobriety test is refused, someone has been killed or injured, there was a collision, or there was a child in the vehicle at the time of the stop, the Express-News reported.

One justice of the peace balked at the extra duties stating they already had enough work to do. Another told the Express-News they believe an individual has a right to refuse to provide incriminating evidence.

The judges in Kendall County need to set aside their political differences. They need to work with the district attorney to resolve the issue with an eye on what is in the best interest of the community, not what will play best for a political base.

A judges primarily role is to dispense justice, not pick and choose which laws are enforced. Refusing to participate in a program that would allow better prosecution of drunken drivers sends a terrible message to those who drink and drive.
It makes no sense to single out immigrants who have been accepted into the soon-to-lapse Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program at immigration checkpoints. But that is precisely what happened to nine DACA permit holders last week at a checkpoint in Falfurrias.

They have cards with expiration dates. They had to qualify and undergo background checks to get these. But, even if Border Patrol agents felt it necessary to check their paperwork, it shouldnt have taken several hours to do so.

Imagine what was going through these young minds. The president had recently ended the previous presidents executive order creating the program and given Congress six month to come up with a permanent legislative solution.

President Trump also said at the time that the Dreamers, as the immigrants who were brought here as children have been coined, would not be targets for extraordinary enforcement. But they appear to have been in this case, though they were all released.

The president, in rescinding the program, said he was doing so because President Obama had essentially created law, a power reserved for Congress. But we note that President Trump claims much the same discretionary enforcement in his ban for refugees from largely Muslim countries.

If the detention of valid card holders isnt unconstitutional, it certainly smacks of the kind of targeted enforcement that the president said would not occur.

DACA is still in effect and will be so for the next six months, with permit holders allowed to apply for renewal if their cards dont expire before March 5. The Border Patrol said it would continue to temporarily detain these immigrants nonethless.

This does nothing but instill fear in immigrants who, under this program, are still here legally. Simply, it is an exercise in cruelty.
In the middle of the night a little over a week ago. we looked on as the Confederate statue in Travis Park was lifted up, up, up and away. It never should have been there in the first place and now its gone. Adios.

For those of you who have an inexplicable nostalgia for the Confederacy, what can I say? Your side lost. As it should have. About a hundred years before you were born.

And I say that as one of these so-called sons of the Confederacy who we often hear from bemoaning the loss of their heritage. Im sorry to say that I too have ancestors who fought  willingly and enthusiastically  for slavery. Not for states rights or heritage or culture or mint juleps on the veranda at sunset or anything else. For slavery.

They may have been good and kind people in other areas of their lives, but in this they were on the wrong side of morality and humanity.

Hopefully, with these statues vanishing from our public squares and relegated to the museums where they belong, we can move on and spend our time and energy on something less divisive and more constructive like, oh, say, health care and education, and  in a world that has so much  finding a way to make sure everyone has enough.

What do you say?

Doyle Avant

DNA records

Considering the recent incident disproving Salvador Dalis kinship to the person claiming to be his daughter, maybe it should be routine to keep records of the DNA profile of all the deceased. As well as avoiding exhumations, this would make it possible to settle issues involving persons who are cremated.

David Morrow, Corpus Christi

Mixed messages

It curious to me, and sometimes confusing, how the media cover natural disasters such as Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

At the same time weather reporters are standing outside in the midst of all the severe weather, along with their camerapeople, lighting folks and entire crew, they are imploring people not to go out into the weather because it is so dangerous.

To me, their being outside can send a message that it is not quite as dangerous as their local officials are stating. They also offer survival tips to those folks who have not heeded the call to evacuate, while at the same time reporting that 2 million residents are without power.

Wonder how they believe their message is getting out to those who have not evacuated? Curious.

Al Pohovich Jr.

Magical thinking

The various cabinet offices now have the policy of not using the phrase climate change.

More magical thinking on the part of Trump, et al. If you dont use the words, it goes away.

Hope this works for the North Korean nukes as well.

Jim Griffin

Rainy day fund

Gov. Abbott must help out our fellow Texans in dire need whose lives have been turned upside down by Hurricane Harvey, and use money from our Rainy Day fund.

The costs of destruction is estimated to be over $100 billion dollars.

There are currently more than $10 billion dollars sitting in the Texas Rainy Day Fund, taxpayer dollars. Gov. Abbott should call on the Texas Legislators to vote and authorize at least half of the fund, $5 to $6 billion dollars, to help.

Congress helped out Texas and appropriated some federal dollars. We need to do what is right and be partners with the federal government, show some faith, and put up some dollars.

Larry Romo

Teenage voters

In her letter, Carol Fleming says she believes that teenagers, even when they will have reached the voting age of 18 (the age at which they can join the military and fight for their country) should not be allowed to vote. (Texas allows their registration if they will be 18 at election time).

Her avowed reason is that teens lack the maturity to make informed voting decisions.

Her other reason for her absurd view is that she believes that young people will vote for Democrats.

People like Fleming would like nothing better than identifying demographic groups likely not to vote for right-wingers and ban them from the ballet boxes. Unfortunately, the Flemings among us have achieved part of their goal of not allowing Democrat supporters to vote  through the voter ID laws which discriminate against the elderly, minorities and the young.

These groups of voters threaten the Flemings of society because they embody the maturity of vision which allows them to keep America great by opposing those who would undercut the very basis of our democracy.

John Stoler

History repeats

The current disposition to deport the Dreamers of the DACA program has more than a few ugly precedents in American history.

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was Americas oblique way of thanking Chinese railroad workers for accomplishing the nearly impossible feat of laying track across the iron-like granite of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

While granting citizenship to children of illegal immigrants is denounced as unconstitutional by so many heartless, cold-blooded Americans, citizens of Japanese descent were cavalierly deprived of their constitutional rights and sent to internment camps at the start of World War II.

And how many harvests of shame were required to give citizenship to migrant workers from Mexico who, while living in ramshackle labor camps and receiving meager wages, crossed and crisscrossed Americas farmlands, picking the crops Americans would not stoop to. The shameless treatment of these migrant workers designated them as little more than slaves.

If these Dreamers are expelled, America will have added yet another burden of shame that will never be erased.

David Stanley
1 Syria fighting: The Russian military on Sunday denied claims that it struck a U.S.-backed force in eastern Syria, wounding six fighters. The Kurdish-led and U.S.-supported Syrian Democratic Forces said Saturday that its fighters had been hit in the air strike near the city of Deir el-Zour in an industrial area that recently had been liberated from the Islamic State group. Western forces embedded with the SDF were not injured, the U.S. military said. Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said: Russian air forces carry out pinpoint strikes only on (Islamic State) targets that have been observed and confirmed through several channels.

2 Severe storms: The hurricane-battered islands of the Caribbean are facing yet another storm threat: Maria strengthened into a hurricane Sunday and is likely to hit the Leeward Islands on Tuesday. Hurricane watches were in effect for many of the very islands still trying to cope with the devastation left by Hurricane Irma, including St. Martin, St. Barts and Antigua and Barbuda. Meanwhile, Hurricane Jose was moving northward off the U.S. Atlantic seaboard, kicking up dangerous surf and rip currents. But it wasnt expected to make landfall. In the Pacific, Tropical Storm Normas threat to Mexicos Los Cabos area appeared to be easing. Forecasters said the storm was weakening and its center was likely to remain offshore.
CINCINNATI  The Kroger Co.'s Culinary Development team announced a new restaurant concept, Kitchen 1883, that offers a fresh take on new American comfort food.

"With Kitchen 1883, our goal is to create a gathering place that offers a genuinely delicious place to relax and experience our food," said Daniel Hammer, Kroger's vice president of culinary development and new business. "The restaurant will feature a made-from-scratch menu, hand-crafted cocktails and a community-centered atmosphere."

Kitchen 1883's "New American Comfort" menu is a melting pot of American and international flavors. Located in Union, Kentucky, the restaurant will operate daily offering lunch and dinner along with brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. The restaurant is scheduled to open in late October.

Kroger said in a press release that at Kitchen 1883, team members will have a passion for people and the food that people love to eat. Team members will be encouraged to share their passion for food with guests and help create an environment focused on hospitality and quality service that is unmatched in the industry.

"If you are food impassioned, have a hobby of sharing great food finds, and are interested in opportunities to grow your food career, we are hungry to learn more about you," said Hammer. "We're hiring for all positions, from cooks to bussers and servers to bar managers."

Kroger operates 2,792 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia, including 782 convenience stores, 1,453 supermarket fuel centers and 38 food production plants.
Mongolia recently marked the successful achievement of goals set under its Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) with NATO. Through DEEP, Mongolia has completed an ambitious multi-year plan for the modernisation of its professional military education system. Since 2013, the National Defence University of Mongolia (MNDU) has implemented a new core curriculum for staff officers, reviewed instructors teaching methods and placed greater emphasis on English and other foreign language teaching.

German Deputy Dean of the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies Sven Gareis visited Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 5 to 12 July 2017, for the review of DEEP Mongolia, made possible through NATO, the Partnership for Peace Consortium, and the Marshall Center.

With NATOs support over the last four years, Dr Gareis, Army LtC Klaus Huettker of the German General Staff and Command College in Hamburg and many other experts from Canada, Slovakia, Ukraine and the United States, have worked with their Mongolian colleagues to develop a state-of-the-art Mongolian Staff Officer Course (MSOC) and to implement modern teaching methodologies in the Universitys curricula.

Our involvement with Mongolias DEEP programme isnt over, said Dr Gareis. This visit marked the end of the assistance phase of the programme. The next phase is a sustainment phase to secure the achievements and further develop curricula and governance at the MNDU.

Launched in 2015, the MSOC has become a prerequisite for advancement as an officer in the Mongolian Armed Forces. The MNDU teaches the curriculum, developed with NATO, on international security, leadership skills and operational planning to a civil-military audience. The 2016 MSOC included participants from the Law Enforcement University, Police Academy, the Border Control Forces and the National Emergency Management Agency. This made the MSOC a comprehensive-approach endeavour that will continue.

MNDU President Major General Yadmaa Choijamts emphasised the programmes success:

"This programme is providing Mongolian officers the opportunity to prepare for multinational operations' staff headquarters. DEEP changed the mind-set of the MNDU, increasing the impulse for reform," said President Choijamts. "As a result of the programme, 45 military personnel from the Mongolian Armed Forces, the General Authority for Border Protection and National Emergency Management Agency have participated in the Mongolian Staff Officer Course and gained knowledge and skills to carry out their duties in international peacekeeping operations staff," he continued.

While in Mongolia, Dr Gareis met with NATO country representatives and with Mongolian Minister of Defence Badmaanyambuugiin Bat-Erdene.

Minister Bat-Erdene, who attended a special tailored seminar for Mongolian parliamentarians at the George C. Marshall Center in December 2014, expressed to me his appreciation of the successful work of the DEEP team, said Dr Gareis.

Mongolia will continue to engage with NATO, in the sustainment phase of this programme and has already offered experts to contribute to new DEEP efforts in other partner countries. In addition, Mongolia is taking steps to build upon the results of this programme in the defence education system. The MNDU is now sharing its new teaching experience with civilian universities such as the University of Science and Technology in three common curricula with the MNDU Engineering School.

DEEPs are tailored programmes through which the Alliance advises partners on how to build, develop and reform educational institutions in the security, defence and military domain. Projects are currently running in 12 countries: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mauritania, the Republic of Moldova, Serbia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia1, Tunisia and Ukraine. They focus in particular on faculty building and curriculum development, covering areas such as teaching methodology, leadership and operational planning.
California could become the first state to ban the sale of animals from so-called puppy mills or mass breeding operations under legislation sent Thursday to Gov. Jerry Brown by lawmakers.

Animal rights groups are cheering the bill by Democratic Assemblyman Patrick O'Donnell to require pet stores to work with animal shelters or rescue operations if they want to sell dogs, cats or rabbit.

Thirty-six cities in California, including Sacramento, Los Angeles and San Francisco already have similar bans in place, but no statewide bans exist.

"We've actually seen a thriving pet industry based on the model of getting these from shelters," said Democratic Assemblyman Matt Dababneh of Encino.

Brown spokesman Brian Ferguson declined to comment on whether the governor plans to sign it.

Private breeders would still be allowed to sell dogs, cats and rabbits directly to individuals.

Supporters of the bill say it's aimed at encouraging families and individual buyers to work directly with breeders or to adopt pets in shelters. It also would ensure animals are bred and sold healthily and humanely, supporters said.

Few pet stores in California are still selling animals and many already team up with rescue organizations to facilitate adoptions, according to O'Donnell's office.

"Californians spend more than $250 million a year to house and euthanize animals in our shelters," O'Donnell said in a statement. "Protecting the pets that make our house a home is an effort that makes us all proud."

The bill would also require pet stores to maintain records showing where each dog, cat or rabbit it sells came from and to publicly display that information. A violation of the law would carry a $500 civil fine.

Meanwhile, a bill seeking to phase out fossil fuels in California's energy grid was struggling in the Assembly.

Assemblyman Chris Holden, D-Pasadena, said the bill lacks support and won't come up for a vote in the Utilities and Energy Committee that he leads. SB100 was written by Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, who is pressuring the Assembly to approve the bill by Friday.

Several celebrities, including actor Leonardo DiCaprio, have tweeted their support this week.

A bill to require presidential candidates to share their tax returns to be allowed on the California primary ballot cleared the Assembly, putting it one step closer to becoming law. It now needs final approval from the Senate before going to Brown. If he signs it, California would be the first state with such a requirement after a flurry of bills in other states stalled earlier this year.

Other legislation sent to Brown Thursday would:
An Oakland woman on Friday pretended to have a seizure after someone approached her on a BART train and handed her a threatening note, attempting to rob her.

Julie Dragland said she boarded a train in Daly City and was heading home to Dublin when a person in dark clothing climbed onto the train in downtown San Francisco and thrust a note at her.

It read: There are 2 guns pointed at you now. If you want to live hand back your wallet + phone NOW + do not turn around and be descreet. Do not turn around until after you have left Civic Center + you will live.

Julie Dragland

Dragland immediately faked a seizure. In response, the alleged suspect disembarked at the Powell Street BART station.

The victim said she was shaken up and will no longer sit on a BART seat with its back to other chairs behind it. Dragland, however, wont let the frightening encounter stop her from riding BART trains altogether.

Dragland doesnt plan to press charges if the suspect is caught.

BART is investigating the alleged crime and poring over surveillance footage. Although there were roughly 15 people in the BART train car, no one else reported the incident, police say.
Things got a little heated Monday when a group of young immigrants confronted House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi at a pro-DACA press conference in San Francisco.

Several dozen young immigrants shouted down the top House Democrat, following her recent conversations with President Donald Trump over the future of a program that grants many of them legal status.

"We are immigrant youth, undocumented and unafraid," they chanted, taking over a scheduled press conference Pelosi, along with Reps. Barbara Lee and Jared Huffman, organized to call for the immediate passage of the Dream Act, a federal proposal that offered many of the same protections as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, but was never approved by Congress.

The demonstrators, from the group Immigration Liberation Movement, appeared to be aiming at Pelosi's recent engagement with Trump on the future of the DACA program, which former President Barack Obama enacted to protect young people brought into the United States unlawfully as children. Trump said in early September he will halt the program in six months if Congress does not act to continue it.

After smiling and occasionally trying to speak through much of the protest, an aggravated Pelosi told the protesters to just stop it, now."



The group cut off planned speeches from DACA recipients who joined Pelosi at the event.

Protesters accused Pelosi and other democrats of deporting undocumented immigrants, asking for protection for 11 million undocumented immigrants across the country. They chanted: "Shut down ICE" and "All of us or none of us."

Democrats created an out-of-control deportation machine, the protesters yelled. Democrats are not the resistance to Trump.

Youve had your say, and its beautiful, Pelosi told the demonstrators at one point. But the shouting did not stop.

The group also called Pelosi a liar.

"You're fighting deportation," the group asked, over and over again.

"Yes, I'm, yes, I'm," Pelosi responded.



"You're a liar, you're a liar," protesters said, attacking her about her efforts to stop deportation.

"You don't know what you're taking about," a visibly upset Pelosi responded.

Last week, Pelosi and Democratic Senate Leader Chuck Schumer met with Trump twice and discussed a deal to extend the program. Schumer and Pelosi said they reached a deal with the White House that did not include funding for Trump's promised border wall. But the White House and Congressional Republicans say nothing is finalized.

"It's clear you don't want any answers," Pelosi told the group. "It's clear."

Pelosi then walked out of the press conference and told reporters outside, "They don't want the Dream Act."

"I understand their frustration, I'm excited by it as a matter of fact," she said. "But the fact is, they're completely wrong. The Democrats are the ones who stopped their assault on sanctuary cities, stopped the wall, stopped the increased deportations in our last bill towards the end of April, and we are determined to get Republican vote for the clean Dream Act."



Pelosi told The Associated Press last Friday in an interview that she and Schumer are looking for ways to "build some trust and confidence" with Trump. She says it does not matter whether or not she and Trump like each other.

Trump has said he wants to protect DACA recipients, despite his decision to wind down the program doing so over six months.

Pelosi released a statement after Monday's chaotic press conference, saying that she had talked with immigration groups about their concerns but never received a request for a meeting with Immigration Liberation Movement.

"Congresswoman Pelosi and her staff have met with dozens of immigration groups and advocates across the country this year alone to listen to their concerns and find a pathway forward to secure citizenship for 800,000 DREAMers in our country. She will continue to work with advocates in efforts to pass the DREAM Act," the statement read.

"Dreamers" is a nickname used for young immigrants brought to the country illegally as children or by parents who overstayed visas.



Following the Trump administration's decision to end the DACA initiative, communities across the country began fighting back to lobby for the protection of young immigrants.

Six immigrants brought to the United States as children sued the Trump administration on Monday over its decision to end DACA.



The lawsuit filed in federal court in San Francisco alleges the move violated the constitutional rights of immigrants who lack legal status and provided information about themselves to the U.S. government so they could participate in the program.

The lawsuit joins others filed over President Donald Trumps decision to end DACA, which has allowed nearly 800,000 immigrants to obtain work permits and deportation protection since 2012.
Members of a Peninsula urban search and rescue team returned to their Menlo Park base today after journeying to Florida to help residents facing Hurricane Irma, fire officials said.

California Task Force 3 drove about 5,000 miles back and forth across the U.S. to Elgin Air Force Base in Florida with 11 vehicles, seven trailers and more than 60,000 pounds of search and rescue equipment.

The unit mobilized a new group of members to respond to Florida and Hurricane Irma 30 minutes after the water rescue team returned from Texas and Hurricane Harvey, Menlo Park Fire Protection District Fire Chief Harold Schapelhouman said.

"We've never had such a short turnaround before to get one group back in and deploy another," Menlo Park Fire Protection District Fire Chief Harold Schapelhouman said in a statement.



Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys and again on Florida's west coast and did little damage in the northern area of Florida where the team was stationed. The team's specialized services weren't needed, fire officials said.

Task Force 3 was one of two search and rescue teams from the San Francisco Bay Area, one of four from California and one of 14 from the nation deployed to Florida to respond to Hurricane Irma.

A day prior, the East Bay-based California Task Force 4 touched down in Oakland International Airport. The 50 members were greeted with an emotional hero's welcome.

Harvey and Irma created a grueling pair of assignments for the unit, but that's what they signed up for, according to Oakland Fire Department Battalion Chief Robert Lipp.

In Texas, the team spent days on boats, going from home to home, looking for people who needed to be rescued amid torrential rain and widespread flooding.

Then came Irma. Some California Task Force 3 members who were driving back from Texas were redirected to Florida, while others who had flown back to the Bay Area, were back in the air within 48 hours of getting home.

The unit spent four days in the Florida Keys and was among the first urban search and rescue teams to start looking for residents who stayed behind, determined to ride out the deadly hurricane.

"Everyone is just really proud and happy not only to have gone, but also now to be home and be able to share our stories and be able to learn from the experience of having been down there so that were even better able to protect our own communities here," Lipp said.

Another 26 members are driving Task Force 3's equipment back to the Bay Area and are expected to be here by Wednesday or Thursday.

Meanwhile, humans are not the only ones returning from sodden Texas and Florida.

A coalition of local rescue groups  including Mad Dog Rescue, Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch, the Milo Foundation, San Francisco SPCA and Muttville Senior Dog Rescue  on Sunday brought 47 dogs and 26 cats from Houston to the Bay Area.

We have an incredible disaster relief team who have been deployed multiple times since the hurricane hit helping with the emergency evacuation of pets, Ryan Darfler of Mad Dog Rescue said in a statement. We will continue to do so until every animal is safe.

Before flying to Hayward in style  aboard a private plane donated by philanthropists  the animals were removed from Texas shelters so hundreds of other displaced pets could be taken care of. All of them have been vaccinated and checked for medical issues, officials said.

The goal now is to "help find these animals good homes to go to," said Monica Stevens, co-founder of the Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch.
California Democrat Dianne Feinstein isn't publicly committing to seeking a fifth Senate term in 2018.

The 84-year-old  the oldest current senator  was cagey about her political future during a television interview Sunday.

Asked whether she was "up for another six years," Feinstein replied: "Well, we will see, won't we."

Campaign finance records show she's raised more than $1 million this year and has more than $3.5 million in her campaign account.

When it was noted on CNN's "State of the Union" that the former San Francisco mayor's was facing re-election next year, she said: "And I'm well aware of that. Thank you very much."

Feinstein  who had a pacemaker implanted in January  joined the Senate in 1992 after winning a special election.
Four Boston College students were attacked with acid in France on Sunday, according to authorities.

The students were outside of a train station in Marseille around 11:00 a.m. when they were sprayed with the corrosive agent without warning.

French police arrested a 41-year-old woman whom they described as "disturbed" shortly after the incident. They said they do not think the attack was an act of terrorism.

All of the students are juniors at B.C. Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman, and Michelle Krug are part of the school's Paris program and Kelsey Korsten studies at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark.

The students were briefly hospitalized in Marseille and have since been released.

Nick Gozik, who directs B.C.'s Office of International Programs, said that "it appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances, though they may require additional treatment for burns."

"We have been in contact with the students and their parents and remain in touch with French officials and the U.S. Embassy regarding the incident," said Gozik.

"I was just online with one of them, having an email exchange," said Jack Dunn, a spokesperson for Boston College. "She said, 'we are doing well.' Exhausted, but doing well."

In a public Facebook post, Krug thanked those reaching out to her:

"Hello friends and family-- first, I want you all to know that my friends and I are doing okay. To fill in those who have not heard, three of my friends and I were attacked this morning at a Marseille train station by a woman suffering from a mental illness. She threw a weak solution of hydrochloric acid at us from a water bottle, which got in one of my eyes and one of my friend's eyes. We were all treated at a local hospital and are anticipating a quick recovery.

I ask that if you send thoughts and prayers our way, please consider thinking about/praying for our attacker so that she may receive the help she needs and deserves. Mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized.

I'd like to thank the US Consulate, French police, and all of the wonderful people who helped us today and made us feel safe.

Looking forward to continuing this incredible opportunity to live and study in Frnace!"

Siverling also issued a statement on Facebook:

"Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out to see if I'm OK and/or has been praying for us. I did not receive any injuries from the attack in Marseille this morning and we are all safe. The French police and the U.S. Consulate have been wonderful and we are so thankful for that.

I pray that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of James and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him."
Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx ruled out a run for Illinois Attorney General Monday, three days after Lisa Madigans announcement that she would not seek another term sent shockwaves through the states political circles.

"I was elected to reform the criminal justice system in Cook County and remain committed to that endeavor," Foxx said in a statement. "We have made significant progress during my first 10 months in office and there is much more work to do."

While at least a dozen names were floated in discussions of who might run for the coveted position, some just minutes after Madigans announcement, Foxx remained silent through Monday despite rampant speculation.

"I wonder if in the year of the woman and with so many women leaving Illinois politics, could we see Kim Foxx step up?" Democratic strategist Ron Holmes asked, citing Foxxs $250,000 in campaign cash on hand, her high favorable ratings in county-wide polling, and the ability to say shes run a law office.

However, the first African-American female Cook County States Attorney made it clear she is not seeking to replace the first female Illinois Attorney General. Elected in 2016, the Democrat previously served as chief of staff to Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, and as an Assistant States Attorney prior to that.

Some female lawmakers, like Reps. Elaine Nekritz and Ann Williams, are considering a run, as well as state Sens. Kwame Raoul, Michael Hastings and Ira Silverstein.

They join a wide field of potential candidates that is expected to thin quickly, as they will have to make their decisions in time to fundraise, circulate nominating petitions and campaign statewide ahead of the primary on March 20.
Chicago has reached a bloody milestone amid a particularly deadly weekend that saw at least 10 people killed and 31 others wounded in shootings across the city.

The weekend killings lifted the city to more than 500 homicides for the year so far, according to data from the Chicago Tribune.

Chicago police said that as of Sunday evening 490 homicides had been reported for the year, but the department's statistics don't include killings on area expressways, police-involved shootings, self-defense killings or death investigations.

Last year, which became of Chicago's bloodiest in decades, the city recorded its 500th homicide in late-August.

At the start of this month, police touted a 47 percent drop in homicides from August 2016 to August 2017.

The most recent fatality took place on Sunday night in the city's Chicago Lawn neighborhood. At approximately 8:20 p.m. in the 6000 block of South Richmond, three people were shot, and one, a 42-year-old woman, was killed when she sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

A 37-year-old man was shot in the chest and was taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition. A third victim sustained a graze wound to the nose, and refused medical treatment.

The first fatalities of the weekend occurred on Friday night at approximately 8:35 p.m., when four people, including a pregnant woman, were shot and killed while sitting in a car in the 4700 block of South Fairfield Ave.

Three of the victims were documented gang members, and all were shot with a high powered rifle, according to police.

On Saturday, two more people were fatally shot, including a 21-year-old man that was shot four times while walking to his car in the 2500 block of West 58thStreet. He was pronounced dead at Mt. Sinai.

A 41-year-old man was one of at least three people killed on Sunday after he was shot in the face during an argument in the 2700 block of East 75th Street. A 30-year-old man was killed in a drive-by shooting in the 500 block of North LeClaire at 3:05 a.m., and a third victim, a 26-year-old man, was shot multiple times while riding in a vehicle in the 2400 block of South Western on Sunday afternoon.
Ten people are dead and at least 31 have been wounded in shootings across Chicago this weekend.

The most recent fatality took place on Sunday night in the city's Chicago Lawn neighborhood. At approximately 8:20 p.m. in the 6000 block of South Richmond, three people were shot, and one, a 42-year-old woman, was killed when she sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

A 37-year-old man was shot in the chest and was taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition. A third victim sustained a graze wound to the nose, and refused medical treatment.

The first fatalities of the weekend occurred on Friday night at approximately 8:35 p.m., when four people, including a pregnant woman, were shot and killed while sitting in a car in the 4700 block of South Fairfield Ave.

Three of the victims were documented gang members, and all were shot with a high powered rifle, according to police.

On Saturday, two more people were fatally shot, including a 21-year-old man that was shot four times while walking to his car in the 2500 block of West 58thStreet. He was pronounced dead at Mt. Sinai.

A 41-year-old man was one of at least three people killed on Sunday after he was shot in the face during an argument in the 2700 block of East 75th Street. A 30-year-old man was killed in a drive-by shooting in the 500 block of North LeClaire at 3:05 a.m., and a third victim, a 26-year-old man, was shot multiple times while riding in a vehicle in the 2400 block of South Western on Sunday afternoon.

Friday:

A 19-year-old man was shot in the 4900 block of West Kinzie at approximately 1:50 p.m. He suffered gunshot wounds to both legs and his abdomen, and was taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition.

A 21-year-old and a 23-year-old were sitting in a vehicle when another vehicle approached and an occupant fired shots at them in the 400 block of North Harding at approximately 3:39 p.m. The 23-year-old man was shot in the shoulder and the 21-year-old was shot in the back. Both were taken to Stroger Hospital in fair condition.

A 29-year-old man was shot in the arms and legs in the 7400 block of North Rogers at 4:29 p.m. He was taken to St. Francis Hospital in stable condition.

In the 4400 block of West Washington at approximately 4:53 p.m., a 24-year-old man was standing outside when he was shot in the abdomen by another person. He was taken to Stroger Hospital in stable condition.

A 33-year-old man was sitting inside a home in the 2900 block of West Roosevelt when someone outside fired shots, striking him in the chest. He was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital in serious condition.

A 28-year-old man was shot in the right leg while walking in the 8800 block of South Throop at 11:45 p.m. He was taken to Metro South in stable condition.

Saturday:

Two men, a 57-year-old and a 31-year-old, were caught in crossfire after two vehicles drove down the 2300 block of S. Blue Island with occupants firing shots at one another. The 57-year-old was taken to Stroger in stable condition after being shot in the arm and leg, and the 31-year-old was taken to Stroger in stable condition after being shot in the arm.

A disturbance led to gunfire as a person fired shots at a 27-year-old man, striking him in the chest. The incident occurred in the 500 block of North Kedzie at approximately 2:26 a.m., and was witnessed by officers, who apprehended a suspect. The victim was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.

A 19-year-old man was shot in the back while walking in the 2200 block of West 19 th Street at approximately 2:53 a.m. He was taken to Mt. Sinai in serious condition.

Street at approximately 2:53 a.m. He was taken to Mt. Sinai in serious condition. A 28-year-old man was shot in the shoulder while walking in the 11500 block of South Perry at approximately 4:59 a.m. He was taken to Christ Hospital in serious condition.

Two men were walking on a sidewalk in the 4400 block of South Hermitage Ave when they were approached by a man on foot, who shot them both. The 24-year-old man was shot in the thigh and ankle and was taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition, and the 26-year-old man suffered a graze wound to the buttocks and refused medical attention.

In the 920 block of West Eastwood at approximately 5:37 p.m., a 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg. He was taken to Illinois Masonic in stable condition.

An unknown person walked up to a 26-year-old man in the 6100 block of West Bloomingdale at approximately 5:50 p.m. and fired shots at him, striking him in the stomach. The man was taken to Loyola Hospital in critical condition.

A 33-year-old man shot and killed while arguing with another person in the 5700 block of South Merrion at approximately 8:47 p.m. The victim was shot in the head multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 31-year-old man was shot while standing on a sidewalk in the 10400 block of South Perry at approximately 9:30 p.m. He was taken to Roseland Hospital with a gunshot wound to his right foot, and is in stable condition.

A dark-colored sedan pulled up to a 27-year-old in the 600 block of South Homan at approximately 11:08 p.m., and an occupant fired shots at him, striking him in the right side and right leg. The victim was taken to Mt. Sinai in stable condition.

Sunday:

A 19-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk in the 400 block of East 61 st Street. at approximately 12:07 a.m. when he was shot in the head and left shoulder. He was taken to Stroger in serious condition.

Street. at approximately 12:07 a.m. when he was shot in the head and left shoulder. He was taken to Stroger in serious condition. A 24-year-old woman was standing on a porch in the 7100 block of South St. Lawrence at approximately 1:36 a.m. when she was shot by a person in a white sedan. She was taken to Northwestern Hospital in stable condition with a gunshot wound to her hip.

A 31-year-old man was shot while sitting in a parked vehicle at approximately 1:29 a.m. He was taken to Stroger in stable condition with a gunshot wound to his back.

A 30-year-old woman was shot while she was sitting in a vehicle in the 9200 block of South Halsted at 2 a.m. The driver of the car she was in got into an argument with another driver, and that driver fired shots at the car, striking the woman. She was taken to Christ Hospital in good condition.

A dark-colored sedan drove up to a 21-year-old man in the 200 block of North Francisco at approximately 2:10 a.m., and one of the occupants fired shots at him. He was taken to Stroger in stable condition with gunshot wounds to his right arm and left leg.

A 22-year-old woman was riding in a car in the 800 block of North Trumbull at approximately 5:53 a.m. when a person fired shots at the vehicle, striking her in the right thigh. She was taken to Stroger in good condition.

A 20-year-old was walking to a store in the 10600 block of South Wentworth at approximately 9:52 a.m. when he was shot in the heel. He was taken to Mt. Sinai in good condition.

A 26-year-old woman was shot in the lower back and was taken to Christ Hospital in serious condition. The incident occurred in the 10100 block of South Princeton at approximately 9:56 a.m.

A 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg on the 9200 block of South Cottage Grove at approximately 1:58 p.m. He was taken to Christ Hospital.





A 47-year-old man was shot while sitting in a car just before 11:30 p.m. in the 10100 block of South Racine, police said. The man was taken in serious condition to Advocate Christ Medical Center with a gunshot wound to the left side of his body.





Monday:
More than 25 years after her murder, a suspect has been charged in the 1992 killing of a Massachusetts middle school teacher's aide.

Forty-eight-year-old Gary E. Schara of West Springfield has been charged in the April 1992 death of Lisa Ziegert, according to Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni.

"We are so grateful and  'happy' is the wrong word, I can't use the word 'happy,' because in this situation, we're not happy  but we are so grateful for the hard work and determination and faith that all of these investigators had over all these years," Dee Ziegert, the victim's mother, said Monday. "They never, ever gave up on Lisa, and that is what we're focused on."



The DNA of Schara, who was described as a person of interest years ago, was found at the scene, but investigators didn't have a sample to test it against until last week, Gulluni said. The same DNA was used in a computer-generated rendering of a suspect last year.

Ziegert, a 24-year-old Agawam woman, was working her night job at a card shop when she disappeared  the store found open with her car and belongings abandoned there the following day. Her body was found four days later in a wooded area about four miles away. Investigators determined she had been raped before being stabbed.

A warrant was issued Friday for the arrest of Schara on charges of murder, aggravated rape and kidnapping in connection to Ziegert's death. Saturday, the warrant was executed and Schara was found in a medical facility in Connecticut. Authorities said he had attempted suicide after fleeing to that state.

Schara was released into the custody of Connecticut State Police on a fugitive from justice charge.

Last year, authorities released a computer-generated rendering of a suspect using new technology that analyzed DNA found at the crime scene to predict the suspect's physical characteristics.

Gulluni said the DNA collected in the case had "been recurrently run against state, national and international databases, without a match." So in recent months, Gulluni said he decided to investigate people named persons of interest over the year whose DNA profiles were not on record.

After a small list was developed in August, investigators began a legal process to obtain DNA samples. State troopers in Massachusetts tried to notify Schara about this process last Wednesday, according to Gulluni. He was not home, and troopers left a message with someone there.

The district attorney said Thursday, someone close to Schara gave police information confirming his involvement in Ziegert's killing. Later that day, police tried to find Schara, and learned he had fled to Connecticut.

Police found Schara after he tried to kill himself, according to officials.

Schara appeared in a Connecticut court Monday and waived extradition to Massachusetts. It was not immediately clear whether he has an attorney.

The district attorney said officials "have a sense of why he did it" but did not provide details about a possible motive.


A group of 24 North Texans just returned from a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa, and what they did on that trip will also change the lives of those they met.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International, in partnership with the International Service Committee of the Rotary Club, went on a 7-day mission to Mbabane, Swaziland, a small country in Southern Africa and a Sister City to Fort Worth.

Carlo Capua, the owner and operator of Z's Cafe and Catering and a member of the Rotary Club of Fort Worth, was on the trip. He said the Rotary Club raised enough money to buy and ship 272 wheelchairs to Swaziland as well as 400 pairs of used prescription glasses. The Rotary Club of Mbabane helped distribute the equipment to children and adults in need. The group also took five bicycles.

Rotary Club President David Campbell said that getting the wheelchairs to Mbabane was just the start. The bigger goal was helping residents maintain the bikes and wheelchairs long after the Texans returned home.



"Our Swaziland trip is taking the Rotary Wheelchair program to the next level, said David Campbell, Rotary president. "We are not only distributing donated wheelchairs to those in need, we are establishing a wheelchair and bicycle repair shop business that Mbabane citizens will operate long after we are gone."

"The training and equipment we will provide makes this project more sustainable, creating a legacy of trade skills that will ensure the repair of wheelchairs and bicycles we bring and provide jobs for years to come," said Campbell.



A vocational team also gave residents classes on entrepreneurship.

"This trip was a testament to the power of people-to-people exchanges," said Capua. "When you can sit and share a meal with a person from another part of the world, you realize something significant: Respecting each other's differences is key to building goodwill and better friendships. And the world needs more of that."


A Kaufman County farmer has spent a lifetime mentoring and supporting young farmers. He never expected anything in return until he received the one gift he could never give.

"His name is Bill, but Papa is everybody's Papa," said his daughter-in-law, Leslie Harrell.

For decades, Kaufman County farmer Bill Harrell has supported the Crandall chapter of Future Farmers of America. He's helped raise donations for local shows and given his time and wisdom to eager young farmers.

"I've always had to work to make a good living and always tried to do right by everybody," Bill Harrell said.

"He'll go out of his way to support us," said his grandson, Grayson Harrell.

He raised his son and three grandsons in FAA and became determined to see other young farmers have opportunities he never had, like wearing the symbolic blue FFA jacket with pride. But wearing that jacket is something he never got to do.

"I don't want to say we were poor, but it was just something I couldn't afford, and I always wanted one," said Bill Harrell, about why he never received a jacket while a member in the Wolfe City FFA.

So when his 80th birthday rolled around his grandsons knew it was time to give their grandfather the one gift he could never give.

Surrounded by his family, friends and those whom he'd mentored through the years, his family surprised him first with an unexpected party and then with his own blue corduroy  66 years late.

"I will never forget it," Bill Harrell said. "Biggest surprise I ever had in my life."

"He always wanted us to have that jacket, and it only felt right to be able to repay him," Grayson Harrell said.

"He gives and gives and gives. He always gets something back, because he enjoys giving, but it's fun to give something back to him," said Leslie Harrell, who reached out to several people within FFA to pull off the surprise.

From Bill Harrell's view, a life this rich with family and friends, is the best gift of all.

"I don't think you could have any one better," Bill Harrell said.

A post about the gift on his daughter-in-law's Facebook page went viral. She says Bill Harrell is enjoying his new internet fame, even though he's never used social media. He makes his family read him everyone's comments on his story.
With the lower Florida Keys reopened, residents were trying to get back to business as usual Monday though there's some serious cleanup that needs to be done first.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott and Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price visited Monroe County Monday to discuss the Keys recovery efforts after Hurricane Irma.

"We've got a long road to go, we've got activity that will be occurring here on the recovery side for months," Price said at a news conference.

Initial estimates show 20 percent of Florida Keys homes "are not livable right now," Martin Senterfitt, Monroe County's director of emergency management said.

Large numbers of people in the badly-damaged Keys are still in the dark, with nearly 30 percent of homes and businesses in Monroe County without power.



More than 19,000 Keys households have registered for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Monroe County officials tweeted Monday morning.

Monroe County remains closed to anyone who is not a Keys resident or is working in official capacity with the hurricane relief effort. In order to pass the checkpoint at Florida City, at least one occupant in a vehicle must show proof of residence, either through a photo ID with a local address, or a photo ID and a utility bill, rental agreement or some other document that shows residency in the Keys.

A curfew also remains in effect for Monroe County, with the Florida City checkpoint closing at 8 p.m. In the Upper Keys and Middle Keys, to mile marker 47 (north end of the Seven Mile Bridge), the curfew is 10 p.m. to sunrise. In the Lower Keys and Key West, it remains dusk to dawn.

The Florida Department of Health has also issued a boil water notice for all of the Keys due to flooding and damage caused by Irma.

"We want to welcome you back to the Keys but I also want to tell you at the same time, when you evacuated, you're not coming back to the same Keys that you left," Monroe County Mayor George Neugent said in a video posted to Twitter Sunday night.

Meanwhile, many across South Florida are looking to do their part for the Keys, including Rotary clubs, which gathered supplies to fly down to Key West. The cargo plane loaded with supplies left Opa-locka Airport Monday morning.

Rotaries in South Florida were not alone in efforts to help the Keys. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jose "Pepe" Diaz and other groups came together to send several truckloads of supplies to those in need.

"We're so blessed and lucky to not be in the same place that they are right now, and it could've been us. It was simple movement of this monster storm that could've hit us head on as a four or maybe a five," Diaz said.

The trucks took off early Monday with a police escort.

"We've done our part already for our local people. Now it's time to help our neighbors, and that's what we're doing today," Diaz said.
A Culver City man who worked for a defense contractor was sentenced Monday to five years in prison for his guilty plea to economic espionage and violating the Arms Export Control Act by selling sensitive satellite information to a person he believed to be a Russian spy.

Gregory Allen Justice told an undercover investigator he was enamored with television spy thrillers such as "The Americans," according to court documents.



According to court records, Justice, 49, pleaded guilty in May to charges stemming from an undercover sting operation in which he sold sensitive satellite information to an FBI agent masquerading as a Russian intelligence officer.

Although he told the would-be Russian spy he needed money to care for his ailing wife, bank records showed Justice was actually spending his money on another woman who hoodwinked Justice in an online relationship, prosecutors said in court documents.

She sent him photos of a European model that she falsely claimed were of herself and persuaded him to send money and gifts through the mail, court records show.

Last month, prosecutors filed a brief with U.S. District Judge George H. Wu, recommending he sentence Justice to seven years and three months in prison -- a harsher punishment than they would have otherwise requested.

They revealed that Justice had asked the undercover agent during one of their final meetings to supply him with Anectine, a powerful muscle relaxant that can cause cardiac arrest in overdoses, The Los Angeles Times reported.

Justice told the agent that doctors had administered the drug to his wife in the past and he wanted to use it to help ease her chronic problems breathing during sleep. That excuse, prosecutors wrote in a filing, was a lie
To know Boyle Heights is to know that, like most Los Angeles neighborhoods, the community would prefer one of its own to address its problems and maximize its promises.

Thats the idea behind the "Boyle Heights Beat" or "El Pulso de Boyle Heights" -- a bilingual quarterly newspaper "por y para la comunidad, for and by the community," written primarily by local high school students.

"I worked for many years in a number of outlets in the United States and overseas, also, and I, myself, have never enjoyed the kind of intimate relationship these young reporters have with their community," says co-founder Michelle Levander. "Were teaching these kids objective journalism, how to be objective, rigorous and see both sides, but they come at it with a really local sensibility of that community."

Levander, who is also the founding director of the Center for Health Journalism at USC, helped found the paper in 2011 with Pedro Rojas, former executive editor of major Spanish-language newspaper La Opinion.

They both serve as co-editors and publishers of a teen-run paper that focuses on doing in-depth stories on issues affecting the community, such as gentrification, immigration and the LGBTQ community.

It receives funding from multiple sources, primarily the California Endowment.

"Those are the kind of stories that get lost, with both fewer resources in newsrooms, fewer local sections, all that sort of thing," Levander says. "These are the stories that probably wouldve never been told anyway."

Thats crucial resource for a neighborhood, that despite it's proximity to downtown, continues to feel marginalized, says reporter Alex Medina, a senior at Francisco Bravo Magnet Medical High School.

"Its a very tightknit community. Theres various schools here, and a lot of things are very interconnected. There's a lot of new things happening here at Boyle Heights, which are very interesting and are facing a bit of backlash," he explains. "News is very important, because without it, we would not be able to hear the stories of people. We wouldnt be able to know the various things impacting our communities."

Medina is in his third year as a reporter.

He says that with the Boyle Heights Beat's website and quarterly distribution of 33,000 print copies, theyve become a resource for the community, which remains primarily Latino.

"For a community like Boyle Heights, it's very important to have a bilingual newspaper available to the community," Medina says. "Many community members may be unaware of certain issues that may be impacting them and are unaware that there is some certain resources out there in the neighborhood available for them."

While some students, like Medina, enjoy reporting through multiple school years, the paper welcomes new students as well to replace those who graduate.

In some cases, graduates come back to assist the paper while continuing to contribute.

"We want to show the world that Boyle Heights isn't a bad neighborhood. It's actually a good neighborhood filled with good people," says Jacqueline Ramirez, who now attends Santa Monica College. She is now helping the publication experiment with audio storytelling. "You can actually feel some of the emotions of some of the people that youre interviewing."

Ramirez says perhaps the most important thing the Boyle Heights Beat does is invite members of the community to speak to the news staff, to share their concerns and the stories theyd like to see covered.

"We have community members come in and discuss what are the kind of stories they want us to write," Ramirez says. "I get the chance to voice the voices of the community."

Levander says thats what makes the newspaper so unique in understanding the community it serves.

"Recently, we were planning a community meeting and we asked all of our reporters to go home and interview their families, interview their neighbors and find out what do they most want to know about, what issues are they most preoccupied with," she says. "Its not a typical way a news outlet is run."

Aside from how Boyle Heights benefits, Levander stresses that her students are the ones who benefit tremendously as well.

"Its a very intensive youth development project, where they get one-on-one mentoring. All those things are good for their futures, whether just for going to college or their lives," she explains. "But theyre also getting a sense of being civic leaders and civic participants through doing this work. Theyre engaging in important ways with the community and serving the community."

Medina agrees.

"For me, I've always loved to write, but normally it was just writing for myself. But getting to do this, gave me the opportunity to help out my community, help out the locals here in Boyle Heights and do something with my writing," he says.

"Boyle Heights is a very special place. It's in a sprawling metropolis, but it's a place with a really distinct identity and culture," Levander adds. "This is really a testament to how many great stories there are in local communities and how meaningful it is that the community feel they have a voice."
An American college student who was one of four women attacked with acid at a Marseille train station says on Facebook that she's planning to continue her "incredible opportunity" to study in France.

Michelle Krug asked for prayers for the alleged assailant, a 41-year-old woman described by police as "disturbed."

The four women are part of the study abroad program of Boston College, a private Jesuit school. All of the students are in their junior year.

Two women who posted late Sunday on Facebook asked for prayers for the assailant. Krug said she was one of two who got hit in the eye with "a weak solution of hydrochloric acid," but added that "mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized."

The four women were briefly hospitalized and treated for burns and have since been released.



Boston College quoted police as saying the attack wasn't thought to be terror-related. Spokesperson Jack Dunn says it's the first time students were attacked while taking classes in different countries, and that school leaders won't be making any new safety recommendations because this is considered an isolated incident.

France has seen scattered attacks by unstable individuals as well as extremist violence in recent years, including in Marseille, a port city in southern France that is closer to Barcelona than Paris.

A driver deliberately rammed into two bus stops in Marseille last month, killing a woman, but officials said it wasn't terror-related.

In April, French police said they thwarted an imminent "terror attack" and arrested two suspected radicals in Marseille just days before the first round of France's presidential election. Paris prosecutor Francois Molins told reporters the two suspects "were getting ready to carry out an imminent, violent action." In January 2016, a 15-year-old Turkish Kurd was arrested after attacking a Jewish teacher on a Marseille street. He told police he acted in the name of the Islamic State group.
A summer of natural catastrophes, from epic hurricanes to scorching wildfires, has exposed another peril in disaster-prone states: How to pay for the rescues, repairs and rebuilding.

The combined tab from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma is expected to hit $200 billion or more. While the federal government is expected to pay most of that, the affected state and local governments have to start paying for recovery now and eventually could be on the hook for tens of millions of dollars or more.

States vary on how prepared they are to weather such costs. Florida and South Carolina, both hit by Hurricane Irma, are among the dozen or so states that do not have dedicated disaster funds and opt to cover the expenses after the fact, potentially by dipping into reserves or shifting money from other state agencies.

Experts say such pay-as-you-go disaster funding can be risky. Add an economic downturn when reserves are low and budgets are tight, and state and local officials could easily find themselves struggling to pay for recovery and rebuilding.

"Thankfully, our economy is in pretty good shape right now," said state Rep. Terry England, chairman of the House budget committee in Georgia, where all 159 counties reported damage from Hurricane Irma. "If this had hit in 2010 or 2011, it might have been a little bit different."

Georgia is one of the states better prepared financially to handle the unexpected costs of a disaster. It has a dedicated emergency fund with roughly $20 million available annually and a rainy day fund with approximately $2.4 billion, England said.

Texas, hit hard by Hurricane Harvey last month, has the largest rainy day fund of any state  $10 billion  but state officials are keeping that as a last resort. Gov. Greg Abbott has said he wants to consider what other funding might be available first. That could include tapping into money already allocated to state agencies.

Others in Texas, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have advocated for tapping into reserves now.

"If this isn't a rainy day, I don't know what is," Patrick said last week.

All but a handful of states maintain so-called rainy day accounts, but in most cases "rainy day" is a misnomer: The money is typically used to get through economic downturns rather than responding to natural disasters. States tapped, and in many cases depleted, their rainy day funds to avoid massive cuts and maintain critical services after tax revenue plummeted during the recession.

Several states have struggled to rebuild their savings since then because tax revenue hasn't rebounded enough to provide a cushion. In all, 33 states reported tax revenue coming in below forecast last year.

New Jersey's rainy day fund has been empty since 2009. Pennsylvania's is so small it would barely fund government operations for two hours, according to a recent study by the Pew Charitable Trusts.

In addition to budget reserves, 28 states have established special funds to help residents and businesses after a disaster. The downside: Several are not currently funded, according to the National Emergency Management Association.

Even putting money into a dedicated disaster fund may not be enough.

In Montana, the state faces the prospect of budget cuts amid a devastating wildfire season.

The state set aside about $30 million in a special fund for fighting wildfires, but the cost has far eclipsed that amount. It has spent more than $50 million on fire suppression since the beginning of July.

At a time when tax revenue is down, the state has depleted its reserves and emergency funds, and plans to cut programs and services to fill a projected $227 million budget shortfall.

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, which includes programs such as senior and long-term care and child protection services, needs to trim $105 million over the next two years. The state university system must identify $44 million in spending cuts after previous budget shortfalls led to tuition increases.

California has already burned through more than half the $427 million it set aside in its Emergency Wildfire Suppression Fund, with Southern California's fearsome Santa Ana wind season looming. Even if that fund runs dry, the state will tap other sources, said H.D. Palmer, spokesman for the state Department of Finance.

"There has never been a situation when the state's finances would be an impediment to deploying crews and materials to knock down a fire as soon as possible to save lives and property," he said.

While the federal government spends tens of billions to help communities recover, the assistance is not guaranteed and the amounts generally cover only a share of the recovery costs  up to 75 percent.

The federal share also might be changing.

President Donald Trump's budget proposal calls for cutting billions of dollars from agencies involved in disaster management. At the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Trump has proposed cutting the disaster relief budget by $667 million, targeting grants that help state and local governments prepare for natural disasters.

In addition, FEMA is considering a change to how it reimburses states for disaster costs. It would require them to pay a predetermined amount before the federal government would provide money to repair or replace damaged infrastructure.

The main challenge, experts say, is for state and local officials to set aside money ahead of time.

"It's very difficult for elected officials to pay attention to disaster funding when the sun is shining and the sky is blue," said Trina Sheets, executive director of the National Emergency Management Association.

Associated Press writers Gary Fineout in Tallahassee, Florida; Matt Volz in Helena, Montana; and Paul J. Weber in Austin, Texas, contributed to this report.
Stephen Colbert kicked off the Emmys Sunday with an old-school production number straight out of "The Music Man," a classic show about a con artist who hoodwinks Middle American townsfolk by spouting false promises about making life great.

"Everything's better on TV," he sang, sprinkling in lyrics about global warming, white supremacists and Russia.

Colbert even offered a surprise non-musical coda: a surreal appearance by deposed White House press secretary Sean Spicer, who spoofed his demonstrably false claims about the size of the audience for President Donald Trump's inauguration.

"This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys  period!  both in person and around the world," Spicer declared from behind a mobile podium seemingly plucked from Melissa McCarthy's sketches lampooning him on "Saturday Night Live."

After his stunt, Spicer told NBC4 Los Angeles that he hoped his former boss "found it humorous."

The multi-tiered spectacle marked vintage Colbert, who long ago proved himself the master of the ironic comedic con, where the audience is in on the joke, even if the joke may be on us. Colbert boldly reached higher Sunday, by ceding the top role to an in-absentia Trump, making the president both the star of the show  and its target.

"Hello, sir, thank you for joining us  looking forward to the tweets," Colbert said, addressing Trump.

It wasn't immediately clear whether the president watched the CBS broadcast, dominated in the late night comedy-filled categories by "SNL" and "Last Week Tonight," which likely rank among his least favorite shows.

But Trump's presence loomed.

Colbert cited Trump's past complaints of supposed Emmy-rigging he blamed for snubs of "The Apprentice," a springboard for his political rise. "I bet if he had won an Emmy, he never would have run for president. So in a way, this is all your fault," he told the Hollywood crowd that packed Los Angeles' Microsoft Theater.

Alec Baldwin later picked up that thread after winning an Emmy for his ongoing "Saturday Night Live" stint as Trump. "I suppose I should say, 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy,'" Baldwin quipped.

Even some of TV's top dramatic players  the dystopic duo "Westworld" and "The Handmaid's Tale"  got in on the humor game. Colbert performed with scantily clad dancers in "Handmaid's"-inspired garb. He doffed his tux for a filmed bit with "Westworld" star Jeffrey Wright.

"Have you ever questioned the nature of your reality?" asked Wright, reviving his Bernard Lowe character.

Colbert, nude except for a bow tie, responded: "Every day since November 8."

The "Late Show" host signaled from the start that he planned to play with reality Sunday: "I know the world outside is getting crazy, but look on the bright side: Television has never been better."

Colbert, with song, dance and pointed humor, fulfilled the promise of TV on its biggest night. No matter how many people wound up watching, Colbert demonstrated he's the real deal by helping us laugh at strange times while never letting us forget them.

Hester is Director of News Products and Projects at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is also the author of "Raising a Beatle Baby: How John, Paul, George and Ringo Helped us Come Together as a Family." Follow him on Twitter.
After returning from their second deployment to assist in hurricane relief in less than three weeks, a group of Miamis elite are heading back into the storm.

The City of Miami Fire Rescues Florida Task Force 2 will be heading to Puerto Rico in advance of Hurricane Marias expected landfall in the coming days. The crew, which consists of 27 members including three search and rescue dogs, will meet with two other teams already in the country and prepare to respond where needed after the storm.

FLTF-2 has been deployed across the country in recent weeks, providing assistance for Houston, Texas after Hurricane Harvey and again being thrown into action in the Florida Keys following Hurricane Irma.
While some Floridians are still without power more than a week after Hurricane Irma slammed into the state, South Florida is close to being back on the grid.

As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, Broward County still had 280 without power as officials say they hope to have it restored by the end of the day. In Miami-Dade, the number dropped to just under 1,800.

The state's emergency management division reported Monday that more than 407,000 homes and businesses are still without electricity. That's nearly 4 percent of all utility accounts in the state.

Large numbers of people in the badly-damaged Florida Keys as well as those in southwest Florida are still in the dark. Nearly 30 percent of homes and businesses in both Collier and Monroe counties remain without power.

Florida Power & Light, the state's largest utility, said it will take until Friday to restore electricity to most homes in southwest Florida.

Despite the frustrations, experts in the electric industry and utility officials point out that improvements made since Hurricane Wilma hit 12 years ago have meant people waiting less time for their lights to come back on.

Only 25 percent of Florida Power & Light's customers had power restored within two days of Wilma. This time, company officials said more than 50 percent of customers had power within 48 hours of Irma.
Two of the four Boston College students who were attacked with acid inside a train station in France are from New York.

The students, all juniors, were sent to the hospital after police say a woman, who came out of nowhere, walked up to them and attacked them with acid in Marseille.

They were hanging out having fun and waiting to take a train back home when they were somehow picked out by this woman who threw acid in their face for no apparent reason, Boston College Spokesman Jack Dunn said.

Michelle Krug, who is from White Plains, and Charlotte Kaufman, who is from Long Island, were two of the students attacked. Courtney Silverling and Kelsey Kosten were the other woman. They are in France studying abroad.

All four women are now out of the hospital. Two were hit with acid in the face and the other two were treated for shock.

Kaufmans father spoke to News 4 and said although he was terrified when he got the call from his daughter at the time, he is now happy and relieved all four women are expected to be OK.

Police say they arrested a 41-year-old woman who has a history of psychiatric problems. Authorities do not believe the acid attack was terror related.

Police are not offering any motive at this time other than saying the woman appeared to be disturbed and singled them out for whatever reason, Dunn said. We are just so relieved that they are all doing OK.
With its snow-white plumage and elegant posture, mute swans are exalted in European ballets and fairy tales as symbols of love and beauty. But to many wildlife biologists, they are aggressive and destructive invaders in U.S. habitats and must be wiped out.

Native to Europe, the mute swan has multiplied in New York, the upper Midwest and along the Atlantic coast since it was imported in the 1800s to adorn parks and opulent estates. Citing threats to native wildlife, plants and unwary humans, six states now have swan-removal policies that range from egg-shaking to shooting or gassing adult birds.

New York is now on the third draft of its anti-swan program. While less lethal than the original 2013 plan calling for eliminating all of the state's free-ranging mute swans by 2025, it has nonetheless drawn angry squawks from animal lovers who just want the birds to be left alone.

"We abhor the plan," said Priscilla Feral, president of Connecticut-based Friends of Animals. "We think it's attitude, not good science, that's driving their agenda."

Most of the state's estimated 1,700 mute swans are in the New York City area, with a smaller population on Lake Ontario. Like zebra mussels and Asian longhorned beetles, mute swans are classified in New York as nuisance invaders. Biologists say they deplete and damage aquatic vegetation with their voracious feeding, leaving less food and cover for other waterfowl and fish.

Unlike North America's native tundra and trumpeter swans, mute swans  named for being less vocal than other swans  aren't migratory, have orange rather than black bills and hold their necks in graceful S-curves. They're also far more comfortable around humans, gliding regally across urban ponds with gray offspring trailing dazzling white parents.

"I see them in Prospect Park when I walk my dog or run," said Jane Seymour, a Friends of Animals employee who lives near the Brooklyn park that has about a dozen mute swans. "People get close to them and take pictures. They really are an attraction."

But there is an ugly side.

Michigan's wildlife agency calls mute swans "one of the world's most aggressive waterfowl species," attacking native trumpeter swans, loons, ducks and other waterfowl. The agency says it gets reports every year of mute swan attacks on canoeists, kayakers and people who get too close to shoreline nests.

The mute swan population in Michigan rose from 5,700 to over 15,000 in just 10 years before management efforts were launched to keep the population and ecosystem damage from ballooning further. The plan there aims to reduce the population to less than 2,000 by 2030.

Maryland wildlife personnel have killed hundreds of mute swans on Chesapeake Bay to protect aquatic plants and native waterfowl. Wisconsin, with about 600 mute swans, has a goal of statewide elimination through shooting adult birds and shaking eggs so they don't hatch. Indiana, Ohio and Minnesota have similar mute swan reduction policies.

Legal battles over state-sponsored mute swan eradication programs led to congressional action that allowed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to remove the bird from federal protection in 2005.

New York's mute swan proposal has brought a deluge of protest, prompting the Legislature to pass a bill putting any action on hold for two years and requiring the state to provide more scientific justification for its plan, minimize any killing and hold public hearings. Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the bill last fall after rejecting two previous versions.

"Wildlife management can present challenges in trying to balance conflicting interests, such as when a beautiful bird can have harmful impacts," said Basil Seggos, commissioner of New York's Department of Environmental Conservation.

The latest swan-reduction plan allows killing of swans upstate that can't be captured and relocated to facilities where they'll be confined with clipped wings. Downstate, it emphasizes population control by damaging eggs.

State efforts to eliminate mute swans have public support, albeit less vocal than the opposition.

"People fall in love with them; they don't understand the broader implications," said Bill Conners, an IBM retiree in the lower Hudson Valley who's active in fish and game organizations. He said the state's professional wildlife biologists should be allowed to manage the species as they see fit. "They are pretty birds, but they don't belong on the landscape here."
What to Know Jose, currently a Category 1 hurricane, is expected to weaken to a tropical storm as it passes southeast of Long Island Wednesday

The system is expected to stay well offshore, but wind and surge impacts will be felt outside the cone Tuesday night into Wednesday evening

Coastal flooding and flooding of parking lots and parks in low-lying areas, including parts of Brooklyn and Queens, is possible

UPDATE: Coastal Flood Warning in Effect for Parts of NYC, NJ; Storm Team 4 Breaks Down the Latest Timeline, Expectations



A tropical storm watch is in effect for parts of Long Island ahead of Hurricane Jose, which is expected to stay out to sea but still deliver punishing rains, rough surf, wind and beach erosion to the area.

Beginning Tuesday night, rain is expected to pound eastern Long Island with 3 to 5 inches of rain, along with other parts of the Northeast under the watch, according to the National Hurricane Center. The watch is in effect for the coast of Long Island from Fire Island inlet to Port Jefferson, and from New Haven, Connecticut, to Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

(A prior tropical storm watch has been discontinued from Fenwick Island, Delaware, to Fire Island, New York.)

Tracking Jose: Storm Team 4 Breaks Down Timeline, What to Expect

A coastal flood watch was also issued for parts of Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and northern New Jersey from Tuesday evening to Wednesday afternoon. The coastal areas are expected to get the brunt of Jose's conditions.

A tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of the Jersey Shore and Long Island ahead of Hurricane Jose. Tracie Strahan reports.

According to Storm Team 4, Jose, a Category 1 storm with max sustained winds of 75 mph, could bring 2 to locally 3 feet of surge above ground level in low-lying areas near the waterfront and shoreline during high tide. That could result in road closures and cause widespread flooding of parking lots, parks, lawns and homes and businesses with basements near the waterfront.

Rip current danger is expected to get worse as Hurricane Jose continues to churn north. Ken Buffa reports.

The region is already experiencing rough waters and rip current advisories. Some light showers are possible from Jose Monday, but steadier showers aren't expected until Tuesday morning. According to Storm Team 4, periods of heavy rain, especially along the coast, are likely Tuesday night into Wednesday as the storm moves just offshore, producing tropical storm-force winds in parts of Long Island and dumping up to 5 inches of rain there and in southeast Connecticut.



Jose is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by then, but the city and other points along the mid-Atlantic coast could still see up to 2 inches of rain. Wind gusts up to 40 mph with locally higher amounts are also possible. Jose's impact on the tri-state area coincides with a new moon Tuesday, which exacerbates the threat for coastal flooding, according to Storm Team 4.

[NATL]Photos: Long Road to Recovery Begins After Irma

In Manasquan, New Jersey, residents were preparing on Monday for floods. Some of the worst fears are for Stockton Lake, which separates Manasquan from Sea Girt: in recent years, flooding along Stockon Lake Boulevard has been getting worse, which Manasquan Mayor Ed Donovan attributes to rising sea levels.

On Long Island, people living in flood-prone Shirley can't help but think about the damage wrought by Sandy. Bill Napolitano exhausted his life savings to build his new house along Narrow Bay after Sandy destroyed it in 2012, and now with his home 10 feet of the ground, he's hoping for the best with Jose.

Meanwhile, on Jones Beach, storm-swollen high tides began to overtake the beach Monday evening. Gov. Andrew Cuomo is set to visit the Nassau County beach in preparation of the storm Tuesday.

The National Hurricane Center says people from the mid-Atlantic to New England should monitor the progress of the system. The center of Jose is forecast to pass about 50 to 100 miles off Long Island's east end.

[NATL] Extreme Weather Photos: Record Heat Threatens Europe

Jose is expected to pull away from the tri-state area Wednesday evening, though some models indicate it could loop back around, lingering offshore in the waters between Long Island and New Jersey, through the workweek. That would make for breezy conditions and high rip current risk for days, but no additional rain or damaging winds, according to Storm Team 4.

Meanwhile, a new storm, Maria, is brewing and swirling toward the eastern Caribbean Monday, with a path that puts Irma-battered Puerto Rico in the crosshairs of the worst storm it has seen in decades.

Maria strengthened to a Category 4 hurricane Monday as it bore down on the Caribbean.

[NATL] Dramatic Images: Floods Hit as Harvey Drenches Texas
An investigation is underway after a Cabrini University student claimed a racial slur was written on the door of her college dorm.

The student sent NBC10 a picture of the words, Go home n***** written on a door. A spokesperson for the university told NBC10 they are investigating the incident.

"The University is fully investigating this report and takes our student safety seriously, the spokesperson wrote. Cabrini does not tolerate any form of hate speech or racist language, and our priority remains to ensure our students feel safe and supported."

Cabrini University is a Roman Catholic liberal arts university located in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania.




What to Know Methacton teachers walk picket lines as thousands of students miss class.

The union teachers and school board can't reach agreement on health care contributions.

The last Methacton strike stretched on for weeks in 1985.

Thousands of children in a Montgomery County school district won't be in class Wednesday as teachers in the Methacton School District continue to walk the picket lines.



The negotiations between the Methacton School Districts Board of School Directors and the Methacton Education Association had been ongoing since January as teachers sought a new contract. The teachers union said sticking points were over wages not being high enough to cover increasing health insurance premiums.

Striking teachers began picketing outside schools around 7:30 a.m. Monday.

Teaching walking the picket line outside of Methacton High School, on day 1 of teacher strike @NBCPhiladelphia @Telemundo62 pic.twitter.com/WrBgrRwiGP  D.C. (@dcheston88) September 18, 2017

Both sides met Sunday night at Skyview Upper Elementary School in Trooper, Pennsylvania where they spent hours negotiating a new contract. The 403 union teachers and the board failed to reach an agreement and the Methacton Education Association declared a strike shortly after 8:30 p.m.

School Board President Chris Boardman called the negotiations "productive." But, while progress was made regarding salary increases, talks between both sides went south when they were unable to come to an agreement on how much teachers should pay for their health insurance.

Classes for about 5,000 students spread across the district's seven schools were canceled Monday and Tuesday during the 403 teachers on strike. Classes will be canceled Wednesday as well.



"We don't want anybody to think we don't care about the kids and the education that they're going to get here," Diana Kernop of the Methacton Education Association said. "But our group is solidly together."

There is currently no set time for when both sides will return to the negotiating table. A state mediator has been coordinating exchanges between both sides, the district said.

"We will be meeting as appropriate and hopefully within the next week we will be back together," Boardman said. "But we're all reeling from the shock of the whole message."

Classes are canceled in the Methacton School District Monday as teachers plan to go on strike Monday morning. NBC10s Aundrea Cline-Thomas has the details.

The Methacton School District released its plans for the strike. You can find a list of those plans -- including options for temporary child care for elementary school students at the Audubon YMCA -- as well as important contact information here.



"Maybe no work for me tomorrow," Mike Kaufman, a parent of a student in the district, told NBC10. "My wife, somebody has to stay home. I have a younger child too so, we're calling the grandparents."

The last Methacton strike in 1985 lasted 25 days.

Teachers in the Methacton school district in Montgomery County will be walking the picket line Monday morning. Negotiations picked back up Sunday afternoon, but both sides were unable to reach a deal. Health care costs are the biggest sticking point. NBC10's Pamela Osborne has details on what this means for thousands of parents and students.
We're just really struggling not having answers right now, Tony Jacobson, brother of Julia Jacobson, who has been missing since Sept. 2, told NBC 7.

On that date, Julia sent a text to a friend saying she was heading to Palm Springs from Big Bear. On Sept. 7, her company car was found abandoned in University Heights, about a half-mile from her home.

Julias family told NBC 7 the car was found with its windows rolled down, at different levels, and the keys still in the ignition. Julias black handbag was found inside, unzipped and with hardly anything in it.

Tony and Casey, Julias sister, are now in town from North Dakota to keep tabs on any new developments in her disappearance.

The siblings gathered with family and friends for a vigil at Mission Bay Park Sunday evening. Julia and her dog, Boogie, used to walk through the area several times a week.

We know the police department is working very hard and very diligently, Tony said. They're throwing a lot of resources, but as a family we're impatient. We want our sister back.

The 37-year-old retired Army captain was last spotted on surveillance by police in Ontario, California a little more than a week ago. Surveillance at a Kearny Mesa 7/11 caught her on camera earlier that same day.

The family has since organized its own searches, canvassing her North Park neighborhood trying to find somebody that knows something.

Candles were lit at the vigil and a cross and carnation honored her, but her family is still holding out for the best possible outcome.

We won't give up hope, Tony said. It doesn't matter how long this will take. We're not going to give up hope that we're going to find her and we're going to bring her home alive.
An environmental activist is calling on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reconsider placing anchored rafts in the ocean as resting platforms for walruses after stampedes killed 64 animals on Alaska's northwest coast.

Rick Steiner, an environmental consultant and former University of Alaska marine conservation professor, pitched the idea two years ago. The Fish and Wildlife Service concluded it didn't have the money or manpower to provide artificial resting platforms that might give a few walruses relief but not benefit the population as a whole in the absence of ice in the Chukchi Sea.

Steiner said he's again asking the agency to take the lead in a raft pilot project because sea ice continues to diminish and artificial platforms could provide alternatives to huge herds gathering on the Alaska coast.

"If it doesn't work, then it doesn't work," Steiner said Friday. "We know what doesn't work: sitting around in office looking at computer screens and having teleconferences expressing concerns about this."

Fish and Wildlife Service spokeswoman Andrea Medeiros said the raft suggestion was thoroughly reviewed in 2015 and the agency position has not changed.

Walruses dive hundreds of feet to eat clams and other mollusks on the ocean floor, but they cannot swim indefinitely. Historically, sea ice has provided a platform for female walruses and their young to rest, nurse and dive north of the Bering Strait.

In recent decades, however, sea ice has diminished due to global warming. The ice in late summer has receded far beyond the shallow continental shelf, over water more than 10,000 feet (3,050 meters) deep  too deep for walruses to reach the ocean bottom.

Instead of staying on sea ice over deep water, walruses have gathered in Russia and Alaska, with 35,000 or more animals sometimes packed shoulder to shoulder on a beach. If a herd is spooked by a polar bear, hunter, airplane or boat, calves can be crushed by mature females weighing more than a ton.

A survey Sept. 11 near the Inupiaq Eskimo village of Point Lay found 64 dead walruses.

With the amount of carbon in the Earth's atmosphere and oceans, Steiner said, the loss of sea ice will continue. He proposes a pilot project of perhaps three rafts anchored a few miles off Point Lay and 80 miles offshore at Hanna Shoal, an important walrus feeding area.

Giant fuel barges are readily available for sale or lease that could be painted white to simulate large pan-ice floes, outfitted with artificial turf and lowered with seawater in their ballast tanks to a level where walruses could pull themselves up with their tusks, as they do with sea ice, Steiner said.

"The solution here is a little bit of biology, a little bit of naval architecture, and good old, standard tug-and-barge operation," he said.

Former Fish and Wildlife Service regional director Geoffrey Haskett said in his response to Steiner in 2015 that the agency's two major management concerns were disturbances to walruses on shore and stress placed on them by having to swim greater distances from the coast to feeding areas.

The agency and Point Lay residents have combined to discourage flights and hunters near herds that could cause stampedes. Steiner called the effort heroic but "simply not enough."
A convicted rapist from Maryland fought with and injured at least two officers at Dulles International Airport as he was being escorted through the airport for deportation.

Koffi Ameyadoh is charged with a federal count of hampering departure from the United States for the incident which occurred in August, according to newly filed records from prosecutors.

Federal agents were escorting Ameyadoh, 51, to a flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, en route to the African nation of Togo to carry out his removal from the United States. Ameyadoh, who was convicted in 2006 of sexually abusing a child and rape in Montgomery County fought with the agents on the top floor of the airports hourly parking garage, according to a court filings from prosecutors.

The court filings said Ameyapoh ran toward the railings of the garage while wearing full restraints.

I am not going back to Togo," Ameyapoh told agents, according to the court filing. "You will be shipping a dead body back to Togo. I would rather die than go back to Togo. I am going to make a commotion at the terminal, so the marshals can shoot me because I would rather die than go back to Togo.

Prosecutors, in their filings with the court, said agents tackled Ameyapoh believing he planned to jump the parking garage railings.

Ameyapoh is accused of continuing to struggle with agents inside the terminal.

At least two of the officers suffered injuries during the altercation, according to court filings from prosecutors. The injuries included bruising and arm abrasions.

The deportation was temporarily called off and Ameyapoh was returned to the Howard County jail, according to filings.

Ameyapohs attorney declined to comment. A judge ordered Ameyapoh remain detained until further proceedings in the newly filed case for the incident at Dulles.

Ameyapoh is listed on the Maryland sex offender registry.
A Maryland lobbyist is the latest to be charged in an expanding bribery scandal linked to former state legislators and the Prince Georges County liquor board, News4 learned.

Matthew Gorman, a Hyattsville attorney and registered state lobbyist, is charged with bribery and is expected to appear in federal court in Greenbelt Friday for an arraignment hearing.

Charging documents in the case allege Gorman offered a bribe to former state delegate Will Campos in April 2015. Though the court filing from prosecutors doesnt detail what was asked in return, the charging documents indicate Gormans bribe was $1,000.

Gorman previously represented clients in front of the Prince Georges County Council and the Prince Georges County liquor board, according to the court filings. His attorney did not immediately return requests for comment. The federal court clerks calendar lists guilty plea-arraignment in the entry for Gormans court appearance Sept. 22.

Campos pleaded guilty in January to federal bribery charges. The former delegate and county council member admitted accepting bribes in exchange for work pursuing grant money and zoning rules. The court has not scheduled Campos sentencing in his case. A status hearing was held Monday morning, but no details on sentencing have been posted.

In January, Campos apologized publicly. "I truly apologize to all of you, my friends and supporters, and to my family," he said. "As embarrassing and devastating as this may be, I own up to my mistakes."

A second Maryland state delegate from Prince Georges County resigned in March. A grand jury charged Michael Vaughn with bribery and wire fraud. Prosecutors accused Vaughn of accepting thousands of dollars to influence his votes on bills to allow Sunday liquor sales in the county. He has pleaded not guilty.

Two former members of the county liquor board were also charged with bribery in connection earlier this year. The FBI raided the agencys offices. The officials were accused of participating in a scheme to pay bribes in return for favorable decisions about liquor laws.

Though the charging document in Gormans case doesnt say whether liquor issues are part of his case, the document specified Gorman represented clients before the board as early as 2006.
Comedian and civil rights leader Dick Gregory is being honored in D.C. and Maryland this weekend with a parade and memorial service that a long list of celebrities are expected to attend.

A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday at the City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, Maryland.

Reena Evers-Everette, the daughter of slain Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers, said they gathered "to hear about the funny man, the straight man, who impacted our minds and impacted our hearts.''



A parade will be held 10:30 a.m. Sunday at The Howard Theatre, at 620 T St. NW in D.C. The procession will continue on to Bens Chili Bowl on U Street.

Gregory famously used humor to promote social justice and nutritional health.

His face is featured on the mural outside Bens Chili Bowl. He spoke at the unveiling ceremony for the mural in June, along with News4's late Jim Vance.

Gregory died at age 84 on Aug. 19.

Instead of flowers, the family has asked that people purchase a copy of Gregorys book, Defining Moments in Black History, for family or friends. Gregory also has a foundation that accepts donations.

More information about Gregorys memorial services can be found on the Dick Gregory Tribute website.
There were numerous delays and cancellations of flights at Boston's Logan Airport due to fog on Sunday night.

The Federal Aviation Administration told the Boston Globe that low cloud ceilings were the cause of the backups.

According to the aviation website FlightAware.com, over 409 flights were delayed either landing or taking off, and more than 86 flights were cancelled all together.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued around southern New England ahead of Jose's brush against the East Coast.

Hurricane Jose continues to churn northward Monday between the Carolinas and Bermuda and about 500 miles south of Nantucket. Although a New England landfall is unlikely  meaning the center of the storm is unlikely to pass directly over land here at home  Jose already is showing signs of transitioning from a tropical system to a hybrid. A hybrid storm means the center is no longer entirely warm core and the structure of the storm is no longer a concentric circle, which surely is evident in the latest satellite imagery. The change in Joses makeup becomes important because as a storm becomes non-tropical, the wind field starts to expand and the rain often shifts away from the center. Both of these phenomenon are expected with Jose.

What this changing storm means for New England is this:

 RAIN: Bouts of heavy showers and rain will start sweeping into southern New England as soon as predawn Tuesday, then expand across the remainder of southern New England during Tuesday morning, except perhaps western Massachusetts, which will see a later arrival of rain. The rain will fall in fits and starts into Tuesday night, before ramping up to a shield of heavy rain overnight Tuesday night into Wednesday. Half a foot of rain is possible on Nantucket, three to four inches on the Mid-Cape and about an inch of rain in Boston, with lesser amounts north and west. Especially in southeast Massachusetts and Rhode Island, these rainfall totals will be sufficient to produce localized flooding and urban street flooding, especially in poor drainage cities and towns like New Bedford and Fall River, Massachusetts. Residents in Southeast New England can clear storm drains now to assist drainage.

People on Cape Cod are bracing for the impact of Jose.

 WIND: Although much of Tuesday will be breezy, more significant wind gusts capable of producing some power outages wont really ramp up until Tuesday late evening on Cape Cod, then overnight Tuesday night through Wednesday for the South Shore, southeast Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Cape Cod and the Islands. Residents along the eastern and southern coasts of New England and all residents of southeast Massachusetts and Rhode Island should secure lightweight objects like patio furniture, trash cans and the like, to avoid objects blowing around in the wind.

 COASTAL FLOODING: The times of high tide  made higher by the New Moon  that well watch closest will be around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday for most coasts and again at noon on Wednesday. Typically flood prone areas during a moderate noreaster could see moderate level coastal flooding, especially along the South Coast of New England from Cape Cod through Long Island Sound. Eastern coasts are likely to find some coastal flooding thanks to the high tide and onshore flow, likely to be minor to moderate. Those along the coast in flood prone areas should make preparations for a minor to moderate coastal flood event.

 HIGH SURF AND BEACH EROSION: Waves have already increased to 5 to 10 feet along New Englands South Coast and will continue building and spreading northward overnight into Tuesday and Wednesday. Not only will these waves cut into productivity for commercial mariners, but represent a life-threatening sea to those who dare to venture into it. Along the coasts, significant beach erosion is expected from Cape Cod through the South Coast thanks to waves that will build 15 to 30 feet offshore, breaking as 8 to 12 foot waves on exposed beaches. Mariners should remain in port after today, and secure vessels for gusts to 65 mph from the northeast.
A New Hampshire man is facing multiple charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl.

Nashua police said James Bourque, 46, of 10 Maple St., in Nashua, was arrested and charged with two counts of felonious sexual assault on Saturday night.

Police said officers responded to a report of a sexual assault on Saturday afternoon after the victim reported to her mother and to officers that she had been inappropriately touched by an unknown man at Sandy Pond on National Street.

The victim provided a description of the suspect to officers, which led investigators to Bourque, police said.

Bourque is being held on $25,000 cash bail pending his arraignment Monday in Hillsborough County Superior Court. It's unclear if he has an attorney.
New talks scheduled for Tuesday may end a teachers strike in Vermont's largest city, which has now entered its second school week. There will be no school in Burlington Tuesday while those negotiations take place.



The union representing 400 educators and other school personnel in Burlington will meet starting late Tuesday morning with the city school board and an experienced mediator to talk about their differences.

There has been no school in the city since the end of the day last Wednesday, because of a contract dispute largely over staffing levels and certain non-teaching duties like lunchroom and recess monitoring for elementary school teachers.

The school board and superintendent have said experienced teachers are best able to detect problems during that unstructured time, but the union insists educators' time would be better spent prepping lesson plans or meeting one-on-one with kids in order to help improve student performance.

"We are fighting for the professional time we need to ensure the best education for the children of Burlington," Fran Brock, the president of the Burlington Education Association, told reporters Monday.

Both sides previously indicated they were close on pay and health benefits.

Brock acknowledged the strain the strike has put on the city's roughly 4,000 students and their parents, many of whom have had to scramble to find child care.

Still, the union pointed to a large rally Sunday in City Hall Park as evidence of how many people have the teachers' backs.

"It's been really very reassuring to us to know so much of the community is behind us," Brock said.

However, support is not universal.

Burlington resident Jeff Comstock, who has a sign reading "I support my school board" in his front yard, told necn he worries about long-term cost sustainability in the district.

Comstock also said he believes the school board has offered fair raises and has reasonable expectations on city teachers.

"I think the teachers should accept the offer as it is, and go back to work," Comstock told necn.

As renewed negotiations get underway Tuesday, the district is now calling for civility, after teachers have reported name-calling and other harassment on the picket lines from some members of the public.

The school district and school board condemned such actions, they said in a written statement Monday.

"Although there is a difference in negotiations, the Board and the District value and respect the right of the teachers to strike," Burlington Superintendent Yaw Obeng said in the statement. "There is no place for any type of bullying or harassment in our community."

The school district announced lunches will be available at J.J. Flynn Elementary School and Burlington High School Tuesday from 11 a.m  12 p.m. for students that rely on that free service.

Additionally, on Tuesday, meals will be delivered to the following neighborhoods at these approximate times subject to change, according to the district:

Franklin Square at 11:00 a.m.

Riverside Apartments at 11:00 a.m.

Roosevelt Park at 11:45 a.m.

Salmon Run Apartments at 11:45 a.m.

Bobbin Mill Apartments at 12:00 p.m.

Lakeside at 12:15 p.m.

South Meadow at 12:45 p.m.

The school district thanked the King Street Center, the Burlington Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Department, the Burlington Housing Authority, and Champlain Housing Trust for collaborating on meal delivery Monday. The district said more than 150 meals were provided Monday to Burlington children.
What to Know As of Friday morning, Jose was located 360 miles northeast of the southeastern Bahamas with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph

The latest forecast places the South Coast of New England into the "cone of probability" for the position of the storm overnight Tuesday

early indications are swell from Jose may build to 15 to 25 feet by Wednesday

The Friday 5 a.m. update on Jose from the National Hurricane Center aired within 60 seconds of its issuance on NBC Boston and necn  for good reason.

The Hurricane Centers latest 5-day forecast places the South Coast of New England into the "cone of probability" for the position of the storm overnight Tuesday night, which is forecast to be a Category 1 Hurricane at that time.

[[444703593, C]]

As of 11 a.m. Friday, Jose was located 360 miles northeast of the southeastern Bahamas with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph. It is moving toward the northwest and was upgraded to a hurricane around 4:30 p.m.



There are some important points to keep in mind with this information. The cone of probability is determined by average error in the forecast track, which is over 200 miles at five days out. This means the storm can track anywhere in the cone of probability, which in this case ranges from a track along the New Jersey coast to a pass a couple hundred miles out to sea. Thats a huge difference! So theres still a lot of possibility with the track of this storm.

Additionally, the storm will be fairly large in scope by the time it gets this far north, though this can mean an expansion of rain and wind. Just how much of each will be determined by the final track, but waves are certain.

Anytime a large storm passes nearby, waves are destined to build on our New England waters, and early indications are swell from Jose may build to 15 to 25 feet by Wednesday.

This, combined with the potential for an expanding wind field, means NBC Boston and necn are encouraging those in the marine community to review hurricane preparedness plans at this time.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency is also monitoring Jose's progress and said it will initiate pre-landfall planning as confidence in its track and intensity grows.

For reference, our exclusive NBC Boston/necn forecast product aired in our broadcasts early this week with a 20 to 25 percent chance of some rain/wind from Jose next week, and has risen to 50 percent over the week.

We have several days and lots of potential for changes in the forecast and well keep you posted on-air and online.

Additional online resources:

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency

Federal Emergency Management Agency

National Weather Service/Taunton

National Hurricane Center

National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center

National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center
The remains of Caribou man who served in World War II are back in Maine for burial.

Marine Corps Reserve Pvt. Alberic Blanchette died at 19 on a small island that's part of the Gilbert Islands on Nov. 20, 1943 in the Battle of Tarawa. Approximately 1,000 marines and sailors were killed.

The remains were moved from the island after the war, but Blanchette's remains were unidentified. That changed with help from technological advances. In July, the U.S. government identified Blanchette's remains using dental and anthropological evidence and a chest radiograph.

There was a police escort when his remains returned to Maine on Thursday. The burial with full military honors is set for Monday in Caribou.
It could be 2022 before any new homes are completed on the development in south Newbury

THE first homes at the proposed Sandleford Park development may not be completed for another five years, if the 2,000-home scheme is eventually approved, West Berkshire Council has conceded.

The news comes as a decision date on 1,000 of those homes has again been delayed by the council, with the planning application not now expected to be considered before December.

The ongoing delays and stretching of timescales have led to calls for the council to provide residents in south Newbury with some certainty over the scheme, as many are left wondering how the sprawling development  off Monks Lane  will affect their day-to-day lives.

Developer Bloor Homes has been seeking planning permission for the Sandleford development since 2015 and had initially envisaged completing the first homes on the site by 2018.

A deadline for a decision was initially moved back from February to November 2017, and has now been delayed once again until December.

However, a number of additional housing developments in West Berkshire have since been approved on appeal, which has meant that the council is no longer relying on the site to be able to demonstrate a five-year land supply, as required by national planning policy.

And last week, West Berkshire Council spokeswoman Peta Stoddart-Crompton said the local authority had to take a pragmatic approach to the development now it was no longer on the list of sites needed in the next five years.

She added: However, the council is committed to the delivery of Sandleford and any delivery on that site that may occur within the next five years will be a bonus.

Almost two years since the first application was submitted, negotiations are still ongoing between West Berkshire Council and developer Bloor Homes over a number of key aspects of the development, including access roads and schools funding.

However, Wash Common residents and spokesman for the Say No To Sandleford campaign group, Peter Norman, has labelled the current situation disgraceful.

While accepting that removing Sandleford from the five-year land supply would put the local authority in a stronger position for negotiations, Mr Norman slammed the possibility of five more years of uncertainty for residents.

If they are taking Sandleford off the table for the next five years, it puts the council in a strong negotiating

position with Bloor Homes  thats a positive, he said.

But for the local residents it just means they have got this sword of Damocles hanging over them.

People cant sell their houses in Warren Road. I know a couple who moved in thinking it would be their final move and theyd be there for good.

But one moment they are being told they need to think about selling up and leaving, then finding out is it, or is it not, going ahead and being left in no mans land.

I, personally, think its disgraceful.

And while Sandleford has stalled, the planning inspector has approved an application for 400 homes in Donnington to the north of Newbury, leaving the potential, if Sandleford is given the go-ahead, for two significant housing developments at each end of the A339.

As such, Mr Norman has said West Berkshire Council must re-examine its housing policy, which was agreed earlier this year.

To deliberately have a housing strategy that develops both ends of the A339 is a total dereliction of their duties.

I think Sandleford should be put to bed and I think people need to know where they stand.

You cant just continue with a housing strategy when some of the underlying principles of that strategy have been pulled away from underneath you.
I cannot begin to imagine how difficult life has been for many of these women"

A TEAM of West Berkshire Council employees will travel to Iraq next month to help teach Kurdish refugees to sew.

The volunteer group responded to a call to action from colleague Paula Horsfall who went to the Baharka refugee camp, 15km north of Erbil, at the request of the Bring Hope Humanitarian Foundation last year.

There Mrs Horsfall taught female refugees how to sew bags using a hand-woven fabric called Jajim, indigenous to Kurdistan.

And now the business support assistant, who had previously set up her own arts and crafts studio, reMADE DXB, prior to joining the council says she is looking forward to going back to Iraq to once again help teach refugees new skills.

Speaking about the start of her arts and crafts studio, Mrs Horsfall said: My business partner and I were both trailing spouses who accompanied our husbands when their jobs relocated them to Dubai.

We became friends through a mutual love of making and decided to set up a business to share our skills with other expats and to give back to the local community by teaching disadvantaged women a skill that could supplement their family income.

The Kurdish people are wonderfully warm and friendly, and Im very pleased to be able to help in a small, but practical way, by teaching women to sew to make a living, and Im really delighted to be taking a wonderful team of volunteers with me.

Felicity Harrison, a team leader for West Berkshire Libraries, her 19-year-old daughter Isla, who is currently studying at York University, Claire Cook, a senior health and safety adviser for Schools, and Didge Oku, manager at The Edge in Newbury will all accompany Paul to Iraq.

Didge Oku explained why she wanted to volunteer with Mrs Horsfall: Being a woman in the western world is a true blessing and often we forget how fortunate we are.

The gender gap is still evident, but when we compare ourselves to the women of countries such as Iraq, Syria and many African countries, it becomes clear how very lucky we are.

I cannot begin to imagine how difficult life has been for many of these women who, despite hunger, oppression, war, rape and murder hold families together.

I cant wait to work with them to empower them and give something back for the blessed life I have had.

Mrs Horsfall is now working to identify UK outlets from which to sell the bags created by the Kurdish women.

She plans to host bag sales to raise funds for the Bring Hope Foundation before Christmas where she will donate funds raised from the sale of her own designed and handmade bags.

Find out more about the Bring Hope Humanitarian Foundation by visiting http://bringhope. info/

Contact Paula if you have sewing equipment you would like to donate for the October trip by emailing paula.horsfall@westberks.gov.uk
Portsmouth, Middletown headed to Super Bowls. How they did it.
There are plenty of new concept cars on show at this year's International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany, each giving visitors a taste of what's to come from the future of the car industry. This year's crop shows strong trends towards electric and autonomous vehicles.

Renault Symbioz

(Image: Renault)

A year after presenting the Trezor at the Paris Motor Show, Renault has a new ambitious concept car on its Frankfurt stand. Symbioz is a connected and fully electric autonomous vehicle that's designed to integrate with the home, and, more generally, all kinds of connected devices, appliances and infrastructure. With this vehicle, Renault envisages the sharing of energy between the home and the car via a smart grid, all piloted by artificial intelligence that can anticipate users' needs. The car has a particularly spacious and comfortable interior with a retractable dashboard and swivel front seats.

Audi Aicon

(Image: Audi)

Audi is demoing its artificial intelligence technologies with two concept cars, showcasing the manufacturer's innovative solutions in the push towards autonomous driving. Alongside the Elaine, the Audi Aicon is causing something of a stir at the German event, as this self-driving car has no steering wheel or pedals. For Audi, the aim is to present a vision of what vehicles of the future could look like, both inside and out. The Aicon has been developed for 100% electric operation, offering a record range of more than 800km.

BMW i Vision Dynamics

(Image: AFP Relaxnews)

BMW's electric division is showing off a concept car prefiguring an upcoming four-door coupe offering performance and endurance, and capable of rivaling current offers from manufacturers like Tesla. The BMW i Vision Dynamics boasts a 600km range and some seriously impressive performances, with 0-100km/h acceleration in just four seconds and a top speed of just over 200km/h. However, a production model of this kind isn't likely to materialize before 2020.

Mercedes Concept EQA

(Image: Mercedes-Benz)

Mercedes unveiled its first ever fully electric compact car on home turf. The Mercedes Concept EQA promises a combined output equivalent to 272 horsepower and an estimated range of 400km. It has two driving modes (Sport and Sport Plus) and does 0-100km/h in just five seconds. Plus, there's no need to plug the car in, as it recharges using induction technology. The first Mercedes EQ-branded model -- an SUV previewed as a concept vehicle at the Paris Motor Show in 2016 -- isn't expected on the market before 2019.

Honda Urban EV Concept

(Image: Honda)

Honda EV Concept.

This fully electric concept car from Honda broke cover in Frankfurt. With its quirky design, the Urban EV Concept prefigures a future production model expected in 2019. In addition to its retro looks, this four-seat city car has a large "floating" dashboard console housing the steering wheel column, a simple set of buttons and a panoramic display screen. The dashboard also features a wraparound display that passes behind the console and extends into the doors, where it offers wing mirror views, displaying images from different cameras.

Kia Proceed Concept

(Image: Kia)

The South Korean manufacturer revealed the Proceed Concept in Frankfurt, a forerunner for the next generation of cee'd sedans, due in 2018. Kia has been relatively sparing with data and tech specs, revealing very little about this car. Its design has a station-wagon feel and it gets a red finish (Lava Red) inside and out. Plus, the windows come with light-up contours, dubbed Luminline.

The 67th Frankfurt Motor Show runs September 16-24, 2017.

Also Watch: Isuzu mu-X Test Drive Review | Cars18
Automotive major Tata Motors is bullish on its first compact SUV 'Nexon' to scale up its ranking in the overall utility vehicles market. Nexon is scheduled to be launched on September 21 and the company is keeping its price under wraps. With its launch, Tata Motors aims to scale up its position to the third or fourth spot in the utility vehicle segment.

"We are now seventh in the overall utility vehicles segment. With Nexon, we hope to become third or fourth largest player in this segment in a year or two," Tata Motors VP Sales (passenger vehicles) S N Barman told PTI.

He was in the city recently for the 'Nexon Skill Arena', which was launched here and will be held in nine other cities, including Gurugram, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai and Jaipur for better customer engagement efforts. Barman said the company's SUV model 'Hexa' is doing well.

SUV is clubbed in the utility vehicle segment and compact SUV is the fastest growing segment in the category. Barman said the utility vehicles market is expanding and now accounts for 29 percent of the passenger vehicles market -- up by three percent over last fiscal -- and eating into the passenger car market. Tata Motors is pitching 'Nexon' against segment leader Vitara Brezza and other major brands like Ecosport and Mahindra KUV 100.

Also Watch: Isuzu mu-X Test Drive Review | Cars18
New Delhi: Private equity investment in India's real estate sector is estimated to rise by 30 percent to $ 4 billion (about Rs 25,665 crore) this year on the back of DLF-GIC joint venture in a rental arm, says realty consultant Knight Frank.

PE investment in real estate was $3.1 billion last year, it said.

"Private equity investment in 2017 is estimated to exceed $4 billion this year, well past the 2015 mark," Knight Frank said. In 2015, PE investment stood at $ 3.5 billion.

Last month, DLF's promoters announced sale of 40 percent stake in a rental arm DLF Cyber City Developers Ltd (DCCDL) for Rs 11,900 crore, which included sale of shares to Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC for Rs 8,900 crore.

"Singapore had the highest investment per deal on account of a single big ticket GIC-DLF deal," the consultant said.

However, majority of private equity investors in 2017 are domestic, followed by those from US and Canada.

"More than 80 percent of the PE capital contributors in 2017 were long-term sovereign and pension funds. Low risk appetite among investors trigger shift in investments share from the residential sector to pre-leased office and retail assets," the statement said.

Samantak Das, Chief Economist and National Director-Research, Knight Frank India, said institutional funds dominated in the private equity investments, reflecting long term confidence in India's strong economic fundamentals.

He said there has been a dramatic shift in capital movement from the residential sector to pre-leased office and retail assets.

However, he said investors would revisit the residential sector on the back of the reforms-driven new order with focus towards affordable housing projects.

"In residential sector, the private equity investors would continue to remain cautious with a majority of them waiting out for current consolidation cycle, driven by both the market and regulatory forces, to run its full course before they re-enter into that space," Knight Frank India Executive Director & Head- Capital Markets Rajeev Bairathi.
New Delhi: Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh, an icon of India's military history, will always be remembered as a war hero who had successfully led a young IAF during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.

The only officer to attain the highest post of Marshal, the Air Force equivalent to the Army's five star field marshal, Singh was a fearless and exceptional pilot who had flown more than 60 different types of aircraft.

He played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.

"His contribution to the Indian Air Force is monumental to the least. The IAF grew with him. He was epitome of military leadership in classical sense and it is, therefore, not surprising that he was honoured with the rank of Air Force Marshal," former Vice Chief of IAF Kapil Kak said.

Singh was honoured with the rank of Marshal on the Republic Day in 2002. Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw and K M Cariappa were the only two army generals honoured with the rank of field marshal.

Known as a man of few words, Singh was not only a fearless pilot but had profound knowledge about air power and applied it in a wide spectrum of areas.

Singh had assiduously led the IAF during the 1965 war and denied success to Pakistani air force though it was better equipped with American support.

"His most outstanding contribution was during that war," said Kak.

Commending his role in the war, Y B Chavan, the then Defence Minister had written: "Air Marshal Arjan Singh is a jewel of a person, quiet efficient and firm; unexcitable but a very able leader."

In 1944, the Marshal had led a squadron against the Japanese during the Arakan Campaign, flying close air support missions during the crucial Imphal Campaign and later assisted the advance of the Allied Forces to Yangoon.

In recognition of his feat, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) on the spot by the Supreme Allied Commander of South East Asia, the first Indian pilot to receive it.

Singh was selected for the Empire Pilot training course at Royal Air Force (RAF) Cranwell in 1938 when he was 19 years old. He retired from service in 1969.

Singh was born on April 15, 1919, in Lyalpur (now Faislabad, Pakistan), and completed his education at Montgomery (now Sahiwal, Pakistan).

His first assignment on being commissioned was to fly Westland Wapiti biplanes in the North-Western Frontier Province as a member of the No.1 RIAF Squadron.

After a brief stint with the newly formed No. 2 RIAF Squadron where the Marshal flew against the tribal forces, he later moved back to No.1 Sqn as a Flying Officer to fly the Hawker Hurricane.

He was promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader in 1944. For his role in successfully leading the squadron in combat, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in 1944.

On August 15, 1947, he achieved the unique honour of leading a fly-past of over a hundred IAF aircraft over the Red Fort in Delhi.

After his promotion to the rank of Wing Commander, he attended the Royal Staff College at the UK. Immediately after Indian independence, he commanded Ambala in the rank of Group Captain.

In 1949, he was promoted to the rank of Air Commodore and took over as Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of an operational command, which later came to be known as Western Air Command.

Singh had the distinction of having the longest tenure as AOC of an operational base, initially from 1949-1952 and then again from 1957-1961.

After his promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed as the AOC-in-C of an operational command.

Towards the end of the 1962 war, he was appointed as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff and he became the Vice Chief of the Air Staff in 1963. He was the overall commander of the joint air training exercise "Shiksha" held between IAF, RAF (Royal Air Force) and RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force).

On August 1, 1964, in the rank of Air Marshal, the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh took over reins of IAF, at a time when it was still rebuilding itself and was gearing up to meet new challenges.

Singh was the first Air Chief to keep his flying currency till his CAS rank.

Having flown over 60 different types of aircraft from pre-World War II era biplanes to the more contemporary, Gnats and Vampires, he has also flown in transport aircraft like the Super Constellation.

In 1965, when Pakistan launched its Operation Grand Slam, with an armoured thrust targeted at the vital town of Akhnoor, Singh led IAF through the war with courage, determination and professional skill.

He inspired IAF to victory, despite the constraints imposed on the full-scale use of Air Force combat power. Singh was awarded Padma Vibhushan for his astute leadership of the Air Force during the war.

Subsequently in recognition of the Air Force's contribution during the war, the rank of the CAS was upgraded and Arjan Singh became the first Air Chief Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

He remained a flyer to the end of his tenure in IAF, visiting forward bases and units and flying with the squadrons.

He retired in August 1969, there upon accepting Ambassadorship to Switzerland. He was Lieutenant Governor of Delhi from December 1989 to December 1990.

Having been a source of inspiration to all personnel of Armed Forces through the years, government conferred the rank of the Marshal of the Air Force upon Arjan Singh in January 2002 making him the first and the only 'Five Star' rank officer with Indian Air Force.
Jaipur: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that those who revere cows do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt.

Rearing of cows is financially beneficial for us, he said to a question asked by a volunteer during a meeting in Jamdoli near Jaipur on Sunday.

Bhagwat, who is on a six-day tour of Rajasthan, said, "People who revere cows devote themselves to rearing cows. They do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt".

There have been several incidents of violence perpetrated by cow vigilantes in recent months.

To another question on use of Chinese goods, he said Swadeshi means to use items and products that are made in small and cottage industries.

"Using Swadeshi products provides employment to people. Using Swadeshi items manifest a sense of pride within," he said.

A string of lynchings has put the spotlight on cow protectors. One of the most high-profile was Pehlu Khan, a farmer from Haryana who was murdered in April by so-called cow protectors in Rajasthan while transporting cows legally purchased from a market in Jaipur. Mohammad Akhlaque, a resident of Bisara village in Greater Noida was lynched in 2015 on suspicion of storing beef in his fridge.

In a stern message to gau rakshaks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi June 29 had said that killing people in the name of cow protection is not acceptable.
Mumbai: Underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's younger brother Iqbal Kaskar was detained by Thane police from his Mumbai residence in connection with an extortion case on Monday.

He was nabbed from his sister Haseena Parker's house in Nagpada in Mumbai. Former encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma, who just took charge of the Thane Anti-Extortion Cell earlier this month, led the raid to nab Kaskar.

According to media reports, the AEC had been keeping tabs on Kaskar for the past few weeks, ever since his name cropped up in an investigation after a builder filed a police complaint.

According to the police, Kaskar had made extortion calls to a local builder demanding houses. Kaskar had taken four flats from the builder and was demanding more, a police official told Firstpost.

Kaskar will be produced in Thane court on Tuesday, police said. Officials said that two builders are also on their radar in the case.

This is not the first time that Kaskar has fallen foul of the law. He was deported to India from United Arab Emirates in 2003 as he was wanted in a murder case and an illegal construction case. However, he was acquitted in both the cases in 2007. He was again arrested in February 2015 in an extortion case, but was released on bail.
New Delhi: The home ministry on Monday will clear its stand to the Supreme Court on the deportation of Rohingya immigrants to Myanmar. Along with the final affidavit, the government will also submit a confidential report.

A draft affidavit that had leaked on Thursday had termed Rohingya Muslims a serious threat to national security. Just hours later, however, the government had said that it would prepare a fresh affidavit after fine tuning some details.

CNN-News18 was the first to access the affidavit signed on September 11 by Ravi Sunder, deputy secretary in the Foreigners' Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was even served upon a lawyer of the petitioner and was ready to be filed in the court.

Soon after the News18 broke the story, the government decided to put the affidavit on hold on grounds of correction. The lawyer, who was sent a copy of the affidavit, was also informed that the affidavit has been served (to him) by mistake.

But sources have confirmed that the stand of the government regarding deportation of Rohingyas would remain unchanged.

There is no rethink or review of the position by the government. They will have to be deported, said a source.

He added that the fresh affidavit needs to "fine tune some details, add some more inputs apart from also suggesting some recourse for Rohingyas outside Indian territory.

But the official asserted that there is no question of allowing illegal immigrants to stay on Indian soil.

In its "draft" affidavit, the MHA called Rohingyas as a class vulnerable to be exploited for terrorist activities by ISIS, and told the Supreme Court that they must be deported in the larger interest of the nation.
BJP president Amit Shah is deposing as a witness at the Ahmedabad Sessions Court in the Naroda Gam case against Maya Kodnani. BJP leader Kodnani, who has already been convicted in the Naroda Patiya case and sentenced to 28 years imprisonment, is also an accused in the Naroda Gam case, where 11 people had lost their lives during the Gujarat riots.

Stay tuned for LIVE updates:

Read all the Latest News , Breaking News , watch Top Videos and Live TV here.
Mumbai: Shiv Sena has once again dangled the exit sword over the NDA as it hinted at snapping ties with the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra in a Twitter post on Monday.

Wait and watch was the message from the Sena camp as party leaders went into a huddle at Matoshree to take a call on whether it would pull out from the government. The main grouse this time are the high fuel prices.

Senas Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut wrote on Twitter that the party does not want to share the blame for the BJPs policies. He said the party cannot continue with a dispensation that is fleecing poor people and has inflated petrol and diesel prices.

Speaking to CNN-News18, he said that it has now become difficult to face people. We have appealed to the BJP to control price rise. Being a part of the government does not mean we will support price hike," he said, adding that the question mark over the status of alliance needs to end. "Uddhav Thackeray is close to taking a decision, Raut said.

    .  .    .       .   . Sanjay Raut (@rautsanjay61) September 18, 2017

Petrol prices have touched nearly a three-year high, which has led to demands that the government cut the excise duty. The BJP government at the Centre, however, has maintained that it does not plan to intervene to control prices.

It remains to be seen whether the Sena would follow through on its threat. The party has on several occasions in the past warned of an exit in veiled threats but has continued in its role as the junior partner in the state government.

The two parties had a bitter break-up just before the last Assembly polls in 2014, but joined hands again to form the government. The BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 122 seats. The Shiv Sena was a distant second with 63 seats in the state where a party or an alliance needs a minimum of 145 seats to form the government. It had to settle to being a minor partner.

Earlier this year, BJP also made strong inroads into Shiv Sena bastion in Mumbai when it decided to go solo in the BMC polls. Shiv Sena now is entirely dependent on the BJP for its survival in the richest municipal corporation of the country.

In a bid to retain control, especially over Mumbai, the party has maintained pressure on the BJP and repeatedly warned that the government is on notice period. Diwakar Raote, the state

transport minister, had earlier this year said that the partys MLAs carry their resignation letters in their pockets.

Sena has never shied from criticising the Devendra Fadnavis government and had supported the farm debt waiver. It had also opposed the stamp duty hike on conveyance and the gift deed to blood relations.
Ahmedabad: BJP chief Amit Shah, on Monday, stood in the witness box in the Naroda Gam communal riot case as a defence witness for former BJP MLA Maya Kodnani, and deposed that she was not present at the crime scene on February 28, 2002.

The Naroda Gam case, in which 11 persons were killed by a rampaging mob in the aftermath of the Godhra train burning incident, is one of the key 2002 Gujarat communal riot cases that were investigated by the Supreme Court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT). Maya Kodnani is an accused in the Naroda Gaam case.

In response to questions from both the defence as well as the prosecution counsels, Shah stated that on February 28, 2002, a day after 56 karsevaks were burnt alive in the Sabarmati train at Godhra railway station, Kodnani was present in the state Assembly.

Shah told the court that the former BJP MLA was also present at the Sola Civil Hospital, where bodies of the karsevakswere brought for postmortem.

Shah, however, could not recollect the exact time when he saw Kodnani at the Sola Civil Hospital, but he categorically recalled that police had to rescue him and Kodnani away from the irate mob gathered at the postmortem centre.

Shamshad Pathan, Naroda Gam victims counsel, said Shah has told the court that he saw Kodnani at the Assembly, which was adjourned around 8:30am and then against at the hospital at around 11am.

That is precisely the point that victims have been making. We maintain that after the Assembly session, she visited Naroda Gaam and then she went to Sola Civil Hospital, Pathan told News18.

Meanwhile, Chetan Shah, an advocate who has represented several accused in the 2002 communal riot cases, said, Amit Shah has stated during his examination that Mayaben was present at the Assembly and at Sola Civil Hospital as well. He has further stated that the angry mob was getting out of control and the police had to take Shah and Kodnani out of the hospital compound in a jeep. This substantiates Kodnanis stand in the court.

Beyond legal implications, Shahs deposition in the case and deposition as Kodnanis alibi has a larger political message. With state elections less than three months away, Shah has attempted to send across a message that the party leadership has not forgotten those facing court cases for 2002 communal riots.

After the Naroda Patiya judgment, in which Kodnani was held guilty and awarded 28 years imprisonment, the feeling among her supporters was that she was left to fend for herself. If Kodnani is acquitted in the Naroda Gam case, it will strengthen her petition in the Gujarat High Court, where she has challenged the conviction in Naroda Patiya case.

With Shahs deposition, the procedure of examination and cross-examination of prosecution and defence witnesses in the case has been completed. In all 187 prosecution and 58 defence witnesses have been examined as part of the Naroda Gam trial.
Kolkata: About 25 Indian sailors including two from West Bengal are stranded on a ship off the United Arab Emirates (UAE) coast in Fujairah for the past three months.

It has been alleged that the owner of the ship had failed to clear dues for the last two and half years to the UAE government for dry docking. As a result the government has now stalled the ship, Maharshi Vamadeva.

Relatives of those stranded have approached the External Affairs Ministry and has sought Sushma Swarajs intervention in the matter.

It was learnt that the owner, Yudhishthir Khatau, who has an office in Mumbai, has not cleared the pending dues for dry docking in UAE in 2014. Since then several reminders were sent to him by the UAE government, to which he didnt pay any heed.

Speaking to News18 from UAE, Sumantra Nath Bhaduri, one of the stranded sailors on the ship, said, We are being detained for three months as the owner of our ship has not cleared his dues. We have also not received our payments for the past three months and have been facing severe water and food shortage. We are using AC condensate to take baths and the biggest concern is that the vessel has LPG cylinders.

He added, We have informed the local embassy and they have given us some form to fill up for our release.

Fujairah is one of the seven emirates that make the UAE and lies along the Gulf of Oman.

Manjuri, wife of Sumantra Nath Bhaduri, who lives in Baruipur in the southern fringes of Kolkata said, On June 17, when the ship Maharshi Vamadeva entered UAE, the vessel was seized and all crew members, including a cook, Sandip, who is also from Bengal were detained. Their documents and passports have also been confiscated. They have been left to die on the ship.

Manjuri further informed that the ship has been kept in Fujairah, anchored in mid-sea.

All sailors have been asked not to de-board the ship and to follow orders in order to avoid serious legal consequences. They is shortage of food and limited supply of fuel. The temperature is harsh and they cant even use fans or air-conditioning with no fuel.

With no options left, the stranded sailors on Sunday uploaded photographs (with their faces covered), raising their concern on social media and seeking help.

Some Indians who came across their plight contacted Indian agencies in UAE and sought their intervention in resolving the issue.

What is the fault of the stranded sailors? They were cheated by the owner of the ship for not informing them about the pending dues before sailing. I would like to request our External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj madam to please help them. I have already tweeted her with our concern and am yet to get a response. I heard that she is very active in resolving issues abroad and we are hopeful that she will help us, Manjuri added.
Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday said that the farmers in the state were not demanding loan waiver but better prices for their farm produce.

Addressing various bankers of the state here, Chouhan claimed that a measure like loan waiver favoured none, including public, farmers and banks.

Asking banks to supporting measures to double farming income, the Chief Minister asked banks to extend maximum finances to farmers, while cautioning them against delaying payments to farmers. He also asked them to stop delaying tactics in approving finance under self-employment schemes.

Chouhans statement comes despite the state witnessing large scale farmer protests in June. Things took an ugly turn when five farmers had died in police firing in Mandsaur on June 7 and the state plunged into widespread violence in subsequent days.

As the protest subsided, the Madhya Pradesh government clarified that it planned no loan waiver for farmers and the state saw a spate of farmer suicides.

Over two dozen farmers committed suicide, with Chouhans home town Sehore alone accounted for a dozen such incidents.

During the winter session of state assembly, following a question by Congress MLA Ramniwas Rawat, the government revealed that from mid-November 2016 to Feb 2017, 287 farmers had committed suicide in the state.
New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry on Monday submitted its affidavit in the Supreme Court on the deportation of Rohingya immigrants to Myanmar and has called them a security threat to India.

The government has also stated that as per law, it is completely illegal for Rohingya immigrants to stay in India and has submitted that their continuance in India would have serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats.

A confidential report, which the government has prepared, may be submitted to the apex court on October 3, if the court so desires. Sources have exclusively told News18.com that the report will seek to establish the link between Rohingyas and terrorist organisations in Pakistan and others like the Islamic state (ISIS) and LashkareTaiba (LeT).

This petition filed by Rohingya refugees, is being argued by senior advocate Fali S Nariman and Kapil Sibal.

The government stated that subject matter of the petition to stop deportation of Rohingyas is not "justiciable", as the fundamental rights of Indian citizens would be adversely affected.

"There is serious national security threat/concern and when a just and fair procedure prescribed by law exist for deportation, this Hon'ble Court may decline its interference, leaving to the Central Government to exercise its essential executive function by way of a policy decision in larger interest of the country," maintained the affidavit.

Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra has told the lawyers arguing for the petitioners that the court will only go by law and that the petitioners must now go through the affidavit filed by the government now.

The Centre has argued that there are credible intelligence inputs against the Rohingyas have terror links.

The Centre has said that it is not only an issue of national security but also of diplomacy and hence the Supreme Court must not intervene in the policy decision of deportation under Article 32 of the Constitution.

The case has its genesis in the petition filed by Colin Gonsalves on behalf of 6,000 Rohingyas in Jammu. The other petition has been filed by Prashant Bhushan and both the petition relies on humanitarian grounds to stop the deportation decision announced by Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs.

A draft affidavit that had leaked on Thursday had termed Rohingya Muslims a serious threat to national security. Just hours later, however, the government had said that it would prepare a fresh affidavit after fine tuning some details.

CNN-News18 was the first to access the affidavit signed on September 11 by Ravi Sunder, deputy secretary in the Foreigners' Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was even served upon a lawyer of the petitioner and was ready to be filed in the court.

Soon after News18.com broke the story, the government decided to put the affidavit on hold on grounds of correction. The lawyer, who was sent a copy of the affidavit, was also informed that the affidavit has been served (to him) by mistake.

But sources have confirmed that the stand of the government regarding deportation of Rohingyas would remain unchanged.

There is no rethink or review of the position by the government. They will have to be deported, said a source.

He added that the fresh affidavit needs to "fine tune some details, add some more inputs apart from also suggesting some recourse for Rohingyas outside Indian territory.
New Delhi: Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh, who passed away at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday, was given a state funeral at Brar Square in the national capital on Monday. In honour of the hero, the Tricolour will fly at half-mast in all government buildings in Delhi on Monday.

The war heros cortege left on a gun carriage from his 7-A Kautilya Marg residence at 8 am towards Brar Square, where a host of dignitaries, including former prime minister Manmohan Singh, BJP veteran LK Advani, paid their last respects to the war hero.

Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died at the age of 98 at an Army hospital here.

He was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the IAF when he was only 44 years old, a task he carried out with elan. He was the chief of the IAF when it found itself at the forefront of the 1965 conflict. Singh, who had flown more than 60 different types of aircraft, had played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.

Singh was honoured with the rank of Marshal on the Republic Day in 2002. Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw and K M Cariappa were the only two army generals honoured with the rank of field marshal.

Known as a man of few words, he was not only a fearless fighter pilot but had profound knowledge about air power which he applied in a wide spectrum of air operations. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, in 1965.

In 1944, the Marshal had led a squadron against the Japanese during the Arakan Campaign, flying close air support missions during the crucial Imphal Campaign and later assisted the advance of the Allied Forces to Yangoon.

In recognition of his feat, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) on the spot by the Supreme Allied Commander of South East Asia, the first Indian pilot to receive it.

Singh was selected for the Empire Pilot training course at Royal Air Force (RAF) Cranwell in 1938 when he was 19 years old. He retired from service in 1969.

On Sunday, President Ram Nath Kovind had led the nation in paying final tributes to Marshal Arjan Singh at his residence. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid a wreath on behalf of herself and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Gujarat for the inauguration of Sardar Sarovar Dam. Former PM Manmohan Singh, BJP leader LK Advani also paid respects to the war hero. The three service chiefs  Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, Naval chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat  were also present.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat described the five-star ranking officer as "a legend, an icon, a pilot-chief who led from the front and a philanthropist to the core". He recalled Singh's immense contribution as the Air Chief during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the first major air battle of the IAF after independence.

"It was to his credit that despite initial setbacks, we were able to 'overcome and overwhelm' the enemy and spoil their design to annex Jammu and Kashmir," Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa told reporters.
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Raos much publicized free saree drive turned into a free-for-all on Monday as women came to blows with each other at distribution centres over the long wait. The gift itself was rejected by most women as they complained of the low quality of the sarees.

The state government was distributing 1 crore Handloom sarees to mark Bathukamma festivities in Telangana from September 18-20. It had spent Rs 222 crore on procuring the sarees and had women officials choose over 500 designs in various colours. The drive was a two-pronged strategy to woo the weavers and women voters.

But things went against the script from the very start. Trouble erupted at a few places as women started queuing up at fair price shops. The long wait soured the mood of women. As tempers soared, women thrashed each other and yanked each others hair.

Their anger did not subside even after they got their hands on their sarees. Women said they were under the impression that they would get good quality sarees but were left dismayed by the quality.

At one centre, women burnt the sarees, and sang and danced around them to mock the government. Instances of women cleaning vehicles with them and throwing them into dustbins were also reported from different parts of the state.

KCR is giving us this Rs 50 saree. Will his daughter wear this kind of saree on Bathukamma festival? asked one women. Even beggars don't wear such sarees and KCR is giving us this saree. We were promised a Handloom saree, not this low quality one, said another disappointed women.

Under fire, the government came out and called the protests politically motivated. The government had spent Rs 222 crore on the drive. While 52 lakh sarees were made by Telangana weavers, the rest were brought from Surat and other prominent textile centres due to shortage of time.

Women officials from the chief ministers office took special care in selecting the designs, colours and quality of sarees to suite the tastes of women across the state.

Minister KT Rama Rao, whose face was prominently displayed on the saree packets came out in defence of the drive. Its a deliberate attempt of opposition parties to defame the government and its schemes. Women were happy and satisfied with the saree at most places, Rao said.

The opposition, however, dubbed it the saree scam. This is a scam of more than 100 crores. We understand the anger in women who have left their daily wage. We appeal to women to not burn the sarees. Instead, they can send them to the CMs daughter and request her to wear them for Bathukamma, Krishank, Telangana Congress spokesperson said.

We are also questioning the quality of the saree. Mr KCR has to come clean over the price and quality of the saree rather than escape and blame opposition. Was there a tender called for the order placed to Surat dealers? he asked.
Ernakulam: The Angamaly magistrate court will rule on actor Dileeps fourth bail plea on Monday. The actor, whos been in jail since July 10, was earlier denied bail by twice by the Kerala High Court and once by the Angamaly court.

Dileep was arrested in connection with a conspiracy wherein a Malayalam actress was abducted and sexually assaulted.

Meanwhile, the Kerala HC on Monday will hear bail petitions filed by Dileeps wife Kavya Madhavan, who had applied for it on Saturday, and his friend, director Nadirshah.

Dileep has been lodged in the Aluva sub-jail since July 10 for his involvement in the abduction and molestation case.

An actress, who has worked in Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu films, was abducted and allegedly molested inside her car by prime accused Pulsar Suni and his accomplices, who had forced their way into the vehicle on February 17 night and later escaped in a busy area in Kochi.

She was taken around in her vehicle forcefully for about two hours before being dumped near actor-director Lal's home, from where police was informed.

The key accused  Pulsar Suni and his accomplices involved in the actual abduction  were arrested a week later and following detailed questioning, police unearthed an alleged conspiracy angle in the abduction and arrested Dileep.
Travellers flying out of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol will be able to squeeze in a last-minute visit to the city's most popular art museum, thanks to a satellite exhibit of Dutch masterpieces.

A total of 10 paintings on loan from the Rijksmuseum will be on show, featuring the works of Dutch masters such as Jan van Goyen, Willem van de Velde the Younger, Abraham Mignon and Michiel van Mierevelt.

Paintings include portraits, landscapes, seascapes, and floral still lifes.

The collection is being housed in the recently refurbished leisure zone between Lounge 2 and 3, past security.

In 2002, the Rijksmuseum become the first art museum to open a dedicated space at an airport.

Unlike the museum itself, the airport collection is free to behold, and can be viewed 24/7.

While it's common for airports to showcase contemporary installations from modern artists, it's less common for airports to house 17th century art, in collaborations with major art museums.

Explore the collection: https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/nl/rijksstudio/20160--rijksmuseum/verzamelingen/schiphol?ii=0&p=0
Charmed is the tourist who visits Namibia.

And like more and more foreigners, Anouk Den Otter took the plunge and travelled to the southern African country to marvel at its legendary natural beauty.

In the middle of the southern hemisphere's winter, Den Otter and her new husband defied the cold to canoe through a seal reserve to celebrate their honeymoon.

"It's really nice so far," said the 29-year-old Dutch woman as she clambered out of their boat on a beach in Walvis Bay, a port town on the country's west coast.

"The people are very nice and the nature is very good."

Den Otter, who works in a hotel in Amsterdam, says that she stumbled across southern Africa by chance while seeking travel inspiration.

"We wanted to go somewhere with no rain in June. I checked on the internet the best places to go, and Namibia was among them," she said. "It has got a combination of everything -- the sea, the cities, the desert, game."

Such a unique blend of attractions and high-profile publicity from Hollywood star Angelina Jolie helped Namibia appear on Den Otter's planning radar.

Jolie filmed the 2003 blockbuster "Beyond Borders" in the country, returning in 2006 to give birth to daughter Shiloh Jolie-Pitt in Swakopmund in the west.

The high-profile attention made Namibia an outsider favourite for travel agents the world over almost overnight.

'Tourism is a critical pillar'

And caught in the grip of a global economic downturn and the related slump in commodities prices, the Namibian government decided to use the limelight to boost tourism as part of a wider effort to diversify the economy.

Among those to benefit from the renewed efforts to develop the sector is Jeanne Meintjes who runs a kayak tour business in Walvis Bay.

"Tourism has grown over the years -- more and more people enjoy doing kayaking," said Meintjes, 60. "Tourists always say the open spaces with so few people make Namibia so special. I have no worries for the future, I just need the seas."

For the past decade growth in tourist numbers has been modest but consistent. In 2015, nearly 1.4 million foreigners visited Namibia.

The steady increase has already made tourism the country's third largest sector, bringing in more than 15 billion Namibian dollars ($1.2 billion, 1 billion euros) annually -- 20 percent of the country's GDP -- behind only mining and fishing.

In 2013, 22,500 people were directly employed by the tourism industry, and some 90,000 people were involved indirectly -- 16 percent of the working-age population -- according to official statistics.

"Tourism is a critical pillar of the Namibian economy and has transformed the lives of many Namibian citizens -- particularly those in rural areas," said Pohamba Shifeta, Namibia's tourism minister, who added that the weak local currency had made Namibia attractive to North American and European tourists.

"The tourism industry continued to grow and remain one of the strongest performing sectors despite the negative economic situation."

'Something for everyone'

Etosha national park in the country's north is often high on the list of must-sees for foreign visitors.

As are Luederitz in the southwest and the abandoned mining town of Kolmanskop, Fish River canyon and the sandy dunes of the Dorob national park.

And unlike neighbouring Botswana where tourism is defined by five-star game lodges and champagne safaris, Namibia has not opted only to grow luxury tourism.

"Namibia is offering something for everyone. When I'm a backpacker I can come in here and stay at an affordable lodging. If I'm an everyday person who wants to do extraordinary things, I can come to Namibia," said Paul Brinkmann, head of the Namibia Tourism Board. "If you do that in Botswana, if you want to do it properly, you have to be mega-rich."

The government's goal is clear: to make the country as appealing as possible to tourists and their hard currency.

And while the sector's major players are delighted by Windhoeks's upbeat rhetoric, they are nonetheless pressing for a more concrete plan.

"There is an effort but there is not enough being done," said Ulf Gruenewald, the manager of Luederitz's largest hotel.

"It is very important that we really, really market the country because we are just a small little country in this big world."

Brinkmann, the tourist board chief, is frustrated by the decision to ban tourists from certain areas of natural interest in the name of conservation.

"They are stronger on the environment than they are on tourism," he said.

Business leaders have also been irked by a recent law that demands that at least 25 percent of the capital of companies in the tourism sector, which is dominated by whites, be held by black entrepreneurs.

"There is not enough money in the country to take that value over," warned Brinkmann. "The problem is, who will invest capital and infrastructure at a time when you need to invest $100 for 75 percent of the shares? The industry has potential for big growth but people are being very cautious."

Namibia's tourism minister is undeterred -- believing that the sky is the limit for the nation's tourism potential.

"One of our desired outcomes is that the tourism industry becomes the second most important contributor to GDP," said Pohamba Shifeta.
Edouard Kunz knows timekeeping is important but the former Swiss watch precision mechanic admits that James Bond's Oriental Desert Express in remote eastern Morocco never runs on schedule.

The train, made famous in the 2015 Bond movie "Spectre", trundles tourists between the town of Oujda and the former mining city of Bouarfa along a 350-kilometre-long (215-mile) stretch of desert.

"It takes between eight and 12 hours to make the trip, sometimes even more," says Kunz, 70, who is known as Edi, blaming sandstorms for frequent delays.

His passion for trains put him in the driver's seat more than 10 years ago when he persuaded Morocco's National Office of Railways to let him run a tourist train on a disused railway line.

The track that runs near the border with Algeria was originally built nearly 100 years ago when Morocco was a French protectorate.

It was part of an ambitious project, the Mediterranean-Niger railway, to link the sea to inland Africa.

However, the project was short-lived and, in time, the mines and factories in Bouarfa shut down, until the desert region with its lunar landscapes was rediscovered by Kunz and the location scouts for "Spectre".

Exterior shots of the train making its way through the desert darkness were used in the Bond movie, a star-studded spy thriller with Daniel Craig reprising the role of 007.

One of the most striking sequences in the film depicts a romantic dinner between Bond and a character played by French actress Lea Seydoux that is interrupted by the villain Mr Hinx, played by wrestler Dave Bautista.

The resulting fight between Bond and Hinx in a train carriage has been praised by some critics as one of the best scenes in the whole movie.

Cradle in the desert

The tourist train that Kunz hires from Morocco's national railway operator is not quite as luxurious as the one featured in "Spectre".

Tourists can choose from a first-class, air-conditioned carriage and another that dates back to the 1960s, in which they can open the windows to take in the scenery and snap pictures.

The train moves at a top speed of 50 kilometres per hour (30 mph), but this can often drop to 10 kph and sometimes the train has to come to a complete halt because of sand on the tracks.

When that happens, workers resort to shovels to get rid of the sand before the train can proceed.

"Some people buy BMWs but I bought myself a train," Kunz says, with a chuckle, recalling how he struggled to make a profit with his desert train project.

In a good year, he says, he makes five to six trips between Oujda and Bouarfa.

On the route to Bouarfa, the first dozen or so kilometres are through a fertile plain, and then the train passes through the Tiouli tunnel.

After that it is mostly desert.

Along the way, passengers see abandoned train stations -- and the more unusual sight of a former Roman Catholic church turned into a judo club, near a mosque.

Kunz is hoping to transform one of the abandoned stations into a restaurant, but for the time being dinner is served in the train.

The chef, Aziz, prepares local specialities -- spicy tajine stews and mint tea -- for the tourists.

"This train is important. It creates jobs and helps promote our country," Aziz says.

One of the passengers on the Oriental Desert Express is Mona, a young Moroccan based in Paris.

"It is a welcome change of scenery. It's nothing but an infinite desert behind us and ahead of us," she says.

"There's an extraordinary atmosphere on the train," she adds, comparing its slow progress through the Saharan sands to being rocked in a cradle.
Los Angeles: Celebrities like Kathryn Hahn, Judith Light and Elisabeth Moss made a statement at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards here by donning ribbons to support the American Civil Liberties Union.

"Top Chef" host Padma Lakshmi, "Silicon Valley" star Kumail Nanjiani and his wife Emily V. Gordon, were also among those who wore blue ACLU ribbons to support the civil rights organisation, reports variety.com.

Several of the actor nominees took part in the statement of support, including Ann Dowd, Mandy Patinkin and Matt Walsh.

The ACLU has been in the spotlight due to its confrontations with the Donald Trump administration over policies.

"Orphan Black" star Tatiana Maslany also wore a blue pin, but for a different cause -- her blue ampersand symbolises support for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
Actress Priyanka Chopra has made an appearance for the Emmys, and as expected, earned a huge applause for her look. The 35-year-old actress stunned in a body hugging white custom-made Balmain feathered ensemble.

Image: Reuters

She took the stage along with Anthony Anderson to present the Award for Outstanding Variety Talk Series to John Oliver for Last Week Tonight with John Oliver at the Microsoft Theater on September 17.

When Priyanka Chopra comes, you just better be ready! #Emmys pic.twitter.com/tWozGT7gJR TheMixxTV (@The_MIXXTV) September 17, 2017

At the red carpet, Priyanka grabbed everyone's attention in her full-sleeves creation, which was embellished with crystals and had a feather skirt train. She completed the look with dramatic eye make-up, and by tying her hair in a ponytail and doing up her lips in deep berry red.

In terms of accessories, she chose to go minimalistic with only a pair of earrings which added elegance to her look.

Last year, Priyanka looked stunning in a scarlet red gown as she sashayed down the red carpet at the Microsoft Theater to attend the awards ceremony.

Not only did she turn heads in a flowing Jason Wu gown, but also ruled the red carpet with her quirky poses for the shutterbugs.

Elegant to the core, the actress twirled to show off its delicate layers.

She had also shared a small video on her Instagram account and captioned it as, "On my way.. #emmyswithpc".

On my way.. #emmyswithpc A video posted by Priyanka Chopra (@priyankachopra) on Sep 18, 2016 at 2:51pm PDT

(Image Courtesy: AP)
Mumbai: Reformed criminals must be given a chance to start their lives afresh, says multi-talented Bollywood celebrity Farhan Akhtar, who essays the role of a prisoner in his latest film Lucknow Central.

The movie, which released on Friday, is the tale of four prisoners who form a music band.

Farhan, who also sings in real life, is of the opinion that criminals, if reformed, must be accepted in society once they are out of the prison.

Asked if, as an individual, he would be open to employing a former prisoner in his company, Farhan said: "Well, we have to look at the larger picture. Yes, tomorrow if you are introducing me to someone saying he is looking for a job and had a criminal record, for a moment I might sit back and the thought might cross my mind that he was a criminal; I think that is only human.

"But we have to look at the larger picture for the betterment of our society. According to our laws, a person who commits a crime, goes to jail and, based on the severity and brutality of his crime, he serves a sentence -- and comes out as a reformed individual.

"We have to understand they are all normal people and that the crime (may have) happened in a moment of madness. So, accepting these people in the mainstream of society could inspire many not to attempt crime and we can build a better society."

There are prisons which give vocational training to prisoners, and Farhan feels what they learn must be put to better use.

"If we create a system where we give criminals a chance in jail to be trained in different vocational activities -- whether it is music, art, theatre or handicraft... then it makes complete sense that we should accept them back with their skill, as a reformed individual," added Farhan.

The film, helmed by Ranjit Tiwari, features actors like Diana Penty, Gippy Grewal, Rajesh Sharma, Inaamulhaq, Ravi Kishen, Ronit Roy and Deepak Dobriyal.

Music is one of the common threads between Gippy and Farhan, but the rest of the actors have diverse backgrounds.

Farhan said the creative collaboration was quite easy.

"The best part is that they came not just from different creative backgrounds but also from different parts of the country. While Rajesh Sharma is renowned in Kolkata's theatre world, Ravi Kishen stars in Bhojpuri films, Gippy is into Punjabi film and music, Deepak and Inaamulhaq are extremely good performers.

"So when you are performing with them, you also have to be on the top of your game. I think that is why the whole filming process was so exciting," shared Farhan.
New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari on Sunday used obnoxious language addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet. Tewari had earlier shared a video, purportedly showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi walking around, while a band played the national anthem.

A Twitter user, responding to Tewari, wrote that he better not teach Prime Minister Narendra Modi a lesson on "nationalism". It was then that Tewari used crass language to describe Modi's followers, hinting that the Prime Minister was hoodwinking them all.

Tewari's response ignited widespread condemnation on social media and from across the political spectrum. More than 10 hours after that tweet, Tewari once again took to Twitter, clarifying that his tweet was "deriding" the response and he didn't mean to offend the Prime Minister.

In a series of tweets, Tewari wrote that he had used a "Hindi colloquial" to expound the idiocy of the person who put "Modi over Mahatma".

The former UPA minister also expressed willingness to apologise for the "Hindi colloquial phrase", but asked if PM Modi will promise to unfollow those "who heap unmentionable abuse on women".

Through his last tweet, Tewari once again took a swipe at Prime Minister Modi for following people who were seen exhibiting happiness on social media after Kannada journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh was shot dead outside her house in Bengaluru.

On September 8, another senior leader of the grand old party, Digvijaya Singh, had also shared a meme in which abusive language was used against the Prime Minister. Singh had also said that Prime Minister was an expert in the "art of fooling".
In yet another jolt to TTV Dinakaran, the Tamil Nadu speaker has disqualified 18 MLAs loyal to him. The move comes days after Dinakaran threatened to bring down the government after O Panneerselvam and E Palaniswami patched up and sidelines his aunt VK Sasikala.

Stay tuned for LIVE updates:

Read all the Latest News , Breaking News , watch Top Videos and Live TV here.
New Delhi: The Bahujan Samaj Partys workers' conference in Meerut on Monday promises to be an acid test for party chief Mayawati exactly two months after she quit the Rajya Sabha.

In retrospect, 2017 hasnt been a great year for BSP chief Mayawati. In fact, the year saw the Dalit czarinas political fortune plumbing new depths.

In the crucial Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, her party won only 19 of the 403 seats  a fraction of 206 it had bagged a decade ago. This decline was in the works. The ominous signs were repeatedly flashed  first in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls, followed by the 2012 Assembly elections and then again in 2014 parliamentary polls, but Mayawati was too confident about her abilities and saw the reverses as a blip in her partys electoral fortunes.

The Decline

As her political stature grew, Mayawati started losing touch with her core Dalit constituency. Her meetings with the grassroots workers were few and far between, where the command flowed by the top often defied logic.

Political analysts say power and recognition brought streak of arrogance in her behaviour. Her birthdays were a brazen display of irrational extravagance.

While in power, she splurged on statues of Dalit heroes and built multi-crore ambitious Ambedkar theme parks dotted with hundreds of elephant statues  a naked display of caste politics, much to her rivals chagrin.

In April 2008, she became the first Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister to unveil her own statue on Gomati embankment in Lucknow.

Her megalomaniac ways brought her under constant public criticism where she was accused of squandering the hard-earned money of the people on building such mindless edifices.

There was a time when the BSP under its founder Kanshi Ram was staunchly opposed to nepotism. It never backed off in criticising dynasts, who promoted their own kith and kin at the cost of party workers.

Mayawati herself used to ridicule Mulayam Singh Yadav for promoting nepotism but charity never begun at home for Mayawati. In April, she appointed her brother Anand Kumar as the party's vice-president and her heir apparent, leaving even her staunchest supporters shell shocked.

Power brought money and later its vulgar public display. Mayawati, wearing much criticised crisp currency note garlands worth crores, was a common sight during party meets and rallies.

She flaunted her material possessions betraying shame and guilt. Her birthdays were occasions to collect cash from party workers. From Rs 1.12 crore in 1995, her income disproportionately ballooned to Rs 111.64 crore, as per her Rajya Sabha 2012 affidavit.

No wonder, SP Maurya, former senior BSP leader, accused her of not being a Dalit's daughter, but of daulats (wealth). Her core supporters, many of whom were struggling to make ends meet, didnt see her grand ways as sign of their own empowerment.

Besides, Mayawati's politics was based on victimhood, which has its own limitations. It does not have much to offer to her upwardly mobile and aspirational voters.

In absence of a new idea for Dalit emancipation, she started relying on her rhetoric of blaming the so-called Manuwadi and Brahmanical forces for all the Dalit ills. These tactics started sounding hollow and stopped resonating among her core voters.

Also, at a time when opinion and perception are built and demolished on social media platforms, she is far removed from the virtual space. She is neither on Twitter nor on Facebook. At the best of times, she lives in an ivory tower.

Instead of patronising new breed of leaders from her core Dalit base, she promoted Satish Chandra Mishra, a Brahmin, which sent a wrong message among her electorate. Mishra clearly lacked acceptability among Dalits.

Moreover, her perceived reluctance to go the whole hog against the BJP further dented her credentials. She was seen as going soft on the ruling party. Nowhere was it more palpable than her near silence over the issue of Swati Singhs appointment as a minister in the Yogi Adityanath government in UP. Experts attributed this fragility to her innate fear of being hounded by the central agencies in the disproportionate assets and other cases at the BJPs behest.

Besides, her politics became too much Jatav-centric, leaving other Dalit sub-castes like Paswan, Dhobi, Balmiki, Pasis, Khatik, Kori etc. in the lurch and consequently an easy prey for the BJP.

Her brand of politics has failed to add any other social groups to her Dalit stable. The on-off experiment of rainbow coalition, first with Brahmins and then with Muslims had a shelf life. The partys Dalit-Brahmin collation was too precarious given the challenging job of keeping these two socio-economic extremes together. Muslims always had better scopes in the Samajwadi Party and the Congress.

In a nutshell, from a party born out of Dalit movement, Mayawati made it her personal fiefdom. Party leaders with mass base stopped seeing their future in the BSP. Dissidence and sacking became a routine affair.

Fast forward to 2017, and Mayawatis political decimation was complete. Uttar Pradesh Assembly results put a big question mark over her political future. For the first time in many years, she was neither in power nor in the opposition.

Her divorce from political reality became all the more apparent when she started blaming electronic voting machine (EVM) tampering by the BJP for her UP poll rout. Political uncertainty was staring in her face.

However, Mayawati hasnt lost the willingness to undo her mistakes and resurrect the party. Power is addictive and she understands it all too well. Another five years out of power could dishearten and demoralise the cadre and the BSP may even cease to exist.

Her Rajya Sabha resignation is seen by many as a genuine effort on her part towards her political reinvention.

The Challenges

But, donning a new avatar isnt going to be easy. The partys old guards like Swami Prasad Maurya and Naseemuddin Siddiqui are now her political rivals. Her current coterie is inexperienced, lacks political base and acumen.

The BJP has to some extent successfully dented her non-Jatav Dalit vote base. The nomination of a Dalit Ram Nath Kovind as the presidential candidate was seen as an attempt in a similar direction by the BJP.

Besides, the Dalit community stands divided amid the identity crisis of many sub-castes. With Mayawati embracing the Jatavs, the divide is starker than ever before.

Significantly, she is no longer the singular Dalit voice in the political sphere. A new breed of aggressive leadership is emerging among the community. The slogans, idea and ideals propagated by the likes of Dalit activist Jignesh Mevani and Chandrashekhar Azad of the Bhim Army find more takers and resonate among the younger generation.

The Blueprint

So, what can Mayawati do to script a comeback?

First and foremost, she needs to change her leadership style and the way she interacts with followers and her community at large. The vocabulary and language of her political discourse should be in sync with contemporary realities and must address their aspirations and concerns.

She must join social media; talk aspiration, dreams and not victimhood. No one likes a sad tale, definitely not Dalits who have faced discrimination for centuries. Tell Dalits what she could do for them and not crib over historical wrongs committed against the community.

The coterie surrounding her must be demolished and dependency on handful of leaders be reduced. Come out of the ivory tower. Become more accessible to leaders and workers.

The party and its leadership must also understand that the Dalit population is not homogenous. Economic and social forces have created incongruence among them. And, therefore, it must attempt to mend the multiple fault lines rather than exposing them for short-term gains.

Also, politics is a 24x7 job. It demands consistency. Going back to the electorate just before polls is no more an option. Voters need constant pampering.

And, a strong Dalit party needs support of each and every section of the caste grouping.

It is equally important that the party first consolidates the Bahujans (Dalits) before making attempts to lure other social groups.

The BSPs inconsistent policies have created a vacuum in the Dalits' social movement. The void gave birth to groupings like the Bhim Army and Dalit activists like Jignesh Mevani. The BSP should endeavor to embrace and not confront these new social forces.

Importantly, Mayawati should lead from the front. She should learn to take responsibility for setbacks rather than finding a scapegoat like Naseemuddin Siddiqui.

Also, she should visit Dalit settlements more frequently and listen to their grievances. Addressing mega rallies have a limited appeal in this age of election micro-management.

Mayawati has the ability to integrate Dalits with mainstream Indian society. She can be the face of a new social construct, where inclusiveness would triumph over caste bias and vote bank politics.
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused the Central government of harassing Rohingya Muslims in the name of deportation.

Banerjees statement came after the Union Home Ministry reportedly in their confidential report termed Rohingya immigrants as security threat to India and also linked them to terror organizations like ISIS and LeT.

Addressing the media at the state secretariat, Banerjee said, It is not the right decision by the Central Government to deport them (Rohingya Muslims), as not everyone is a terrorist.

We have to think about the several children among the Rohingya refugees. My partys view is that every community has good people and bad people. There is a difference between commoners and terrorists, and that terrorists should be firmly dealt with but commoners should not suffer, she added.

Banerjee had first raised the Rohingya refugee issue on September 15, saying, We are with United Nation (UN) who appealed the international community to help the Rohingya people. We support their cause. We believe that all commoners are not terrorists. It is a matter of concerned.

On idol immersion issue, she said, I am the Chief Minister of state and I cannot take stand for particular community. I have to take care of all the people living in Bengal. We have decided to ban immersion on Muharram day because it will be difficult to maintain both the events together. I am sure; Maharashtra also cannot manage both the events on same day.

I took the decision to ban immersion on Muharram keeping the sentiment of both the communities. Muharram is not an event of joy. It is a mourning ritual. I dont want any kind of disharmony by allowing immersion (on Vijay Dashami) and Muharram on same day. But some people politicize the whole issue. If someone tries to play with matchsticks, then I will snatch matchsticks from their hands, she added.
Chennai: Four days after the Tamil Nadu Speaker told the Madras High Court that action has begun to disqualify MLAs supporting TTV Dinakaran, the Speaker on Monday disqualified all the 18 MLAs supporting TTV Dinakran under Schedule 10 of the Indian Constitution which deals with the anti-defection law.

With this, the total strength of the AIADMK has come down to 116. Of the total 234 legislators, the number is now 231 excluding Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi and the Speaker. If 18 MLAs are disqualified, the total number comes down to 213 and the halfway mark is 106. EPS-OPS merged faction has the support of 114 MLAs which is more than the required numbers to form the majority.

TTV camp, however, has decided its next course of action which is to move the Madras High Court. P Vetrivel, an MLA from the TTV camp said: "They are trying to show majority in a cross path. They have disqualified 18 MLAs. They have done this just in a belief that the majority count would increase. We will take a legal route and move the Court. We will surely dissolve this existing Government."

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edapadi Palaniswami while addressing party cadre in Salem district lashed out at TTV Dinakaran. He said: " No one can shake the AIADMK. As long as party cadre supports us, no one can touch the party. There is no dynasty politics in the AIADMK. No one can succeed in dissolving the Government."

MK Stalin, on the other hand, has criticized the move. "TN Speaker has done this deliberately to reduce the majority of the house and has planned this with CM Palaniswami." Stalin has called a meeting of DMK MLAs on Tuesday.

He said, "The Speaker's decision is against democracy and Constitution. This is a murder of democracy. Why were the OPS camp MLAs not disqualified for voting against EPS in previous floor test? This is an escape route taken by AIADMK. We will approach the court."

In August, 19 MLAs supporting TTV Dinakaran met Governor and submitted a memorandum withdrawing support to the Chief Minister. The Speaker had then summoned all the rebel MLAs to appear before him but the MLAs demanded time. Of the 19 MLAs, one MLA jumped ship last week reducing the count to 18.

In the meantime, police officials from Coimbatore visited Paddington Resort in Coorg, Karnataka to arrest an MLA Palaniappan whose name was allegdly mentioned in a suicide note of a contractor. Follwing this, another MLA and former Minister Senthil Balaji filed a police complaint stating that he along with other MLAs are threatened by the EPS camp to withdraw memorandum failing which they will be disqualified.

TTV Dinakaran and his camp reiterate that they will ensure that the Govt is sent packing. The Madras High Court had ordered that floor test will happen till Sept 20 and had asked the Advocate General to get replies of the Governor and the Chief Secretary on this matter.
Meerut: The 55-kilometer stretch between Ghaziabad and Meerut on National Highway 58 was a riot of blue on Monday morning.

After years, the Dalit czarina was leaving the forbidden cities and citadel to hit the road to meet her people in the hinterland.

Bahujan Samaj Party Chief Mayawati was travelling by road to Meerut to address the first in the series of workers' conferences. The conclaves are to be held on the 18th of every month  the day she resigned from Rajya Sabha protesting denial of permission to raise atrocities against Dalits after caste clashes in Saharanpur earlier this year.

In the last ten years, the BSP chief has travelled out of Delhi or Lucknow only to attend elections rallies in poll seasons. Now, after a string of defeats, BSP is facing its worst crisis since its inception, 35 years ago. A mass movement built brick-by-brick by its founder Kanshi Ram may be coming apart at the seams of social coalitions it rested upon.

As BSP attempts a course correction of sorts, we attempt to hear from BSPs core cadre on how such things have come to pass. Thousands of these die-hard Mayawati supporters turned up to hear the BSP leader in Meerut on Monday.

Satinder Kumar (name changed) is a "two-star officer" of the Bahujan Volunteer Force (BVF), BSPs own crowd control unit. He doesn't remember the last time his leader spoke to party workers like this. Ek tarah se achcha hua ki seat kam aayi hain. Party mein phir se josh aana zaroori tha (In a way, it is good that we got less seats. It was necessary for the party to become enthusiastic again)."

The party which commanded 206 MLAs in the UP Assembly in 2007 is now down to just 19. Mayawati may have resigned from the Rajya Sabha on moral grounds but her party wouldn't have been in a position to send her back to the Upper House had her term expired naturally.

While BSP leaders are guarded in their response, privately they admit that poor performance in recent elections has led to sagging morale among the rank and file. It's really important that Behenji has decided to meet workers again. Elections are not far. We can't have party workers feeling demotivated," said one leader.

"There are less than two years to go before the General Election and we want to pull up our socks, said Munkad Ali, the Rajya Sabha MP who has replaced Naseemuddin Siddiqui as partys Muslim face.

The road to 2019 may be long but Mayawatis tryst with the realpolitik may come as soon as this year. Party workers are excited at the prospect of the BSP boss contesting the Phulpur Lok Sabha bye-poll.

But what do they think of Mayawati's move to quit the Rajya Sabha? "Bilkul theek kiya! Manuwaadiyon ki sarkar inhe humari baat nahi rakhne deti (She did the right thing. The government of Manuwaadis won't let her talk about our issues)," said Mohit Kumar from Saharanpur district, which witnessed caste violence in May this year.

The challenge for Mayawati is both from outside and within. When caste violence broke out in Saharanpur earlier this year, a hitherto unknown Dalit outfit Bhim Army took the vanguard position. Its leader, 30-year-old lawyer Chandrashekhar Azad 'Raavan', emerged as the rallying force for Dalits.

Long after Mayawati changed her slogans to 'Sarvajan Hitai' (Prosperity for all) and advocated caste-harmony by promoting Brahmin faces, Bhim Army was preaching and promoting the same caste dialectics that Kanshi Ram once relied upon.

A generational divide among her supporters is evident. Raju, a 55-year-old resident of Saharanpur's Nakur, has been a loyal BSP foot soldier since 1984. He is not impressed with the new upstart. The problem with this Bhim Army is that they are too indisciplined. They don't have the structure of the BSP. That is why behenji will remain the only true leader of our community. These are some young, hot-headed boys who are directionless. They should come under the wing of the BSP and fight under behenji."

In veiled attack on Bhim Army, which was held responsible for violence in Saharanpur, Mayawati said conspirators managed an organization to execute their plan and lodged cases against it when that plan was exposed.

But the younger lot disagrees. For many, like 28-year-old Mohit, the Bhim Army and BSP are two sides of the same coin. "You have seen how the Sangh Parivar works. BJP is a political party and RSS is a social outfit. That is how we see BSP and Bhim Army. We follow the ideology of Bhim Army but we will vote for BSP. Chandrashekhar has gone to jail for us. He cannot be a BJP stooge."
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday backed the Narendra Modi government over a host of contentious issues, ranging from simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections to rising petroleum prices. He also attacked the Congress government in Karnataka for not being able to solve the Gauri Lankesh murder case.

Expressing his anguish over the pace of progress in the Gauri Lankesh murder case, Nitish attacked the Siddaramaiah government, saying it was a total failure so far.  I am not getting any news of any arrest. What has happened? Like any other conscious person, I am also keen to see who were behind this crime. But the Karnataka government has not come out with anything on this and nobody is questioning, he said.

Nitish Kumar, who is also the national president of the Janata Dal (United) and returned to the NDA fold in July, said if such an incident had happened in Bihar, all hell would have broken lose. But no one, including the media, is questioning the Karnataka government.

He also defended the rising petroleum prices, saying it was now being decided by the open market and interference required policy intervention. When asked whether petroleum products should be brought under GST, he replied, We should also keep in mind that the sale of petroleum products constitutes a large amount of governments revenue which is used for other welfare schemes. The state governments also get their share. As far as the question of bringing it under GST is concerned, the central government or GST Council should take a decision in this regard.

The Bihar Chief Minister echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modis pitch for holding Lok Sabha and Assembly elections simultaneously, but ruled out any possibility of mid-term election in the state.

Nitish said that he was in favour of holding simultaneous elections of every legislative unit, from Lok Sabha to local bodies, having a fixed term of five years but it required few amendments.

Till 1967, Assembly elections were held with Lok Sabha polls, but political instability prevented that in later years. I principally agree with the Prime Ministers point of view on this issue and if there is a consensus that the same can be implemented from 2024, he said.

However, he expressed the need of constitutional amendment to ensure simultaneous elections in perpetuity as the term of the elected body would require a fixed term to make it possible. We will have to ensure that whoever forms the government in the state or at the Centre completes five-year tenure. It may require new statute, Nitish said.

The CM was critical of the Code of Conduct imposed by the Election Commission before every election, which, he said, affects governance and development projects.

Nitish, however, ruled out holding Assembly election in the state with Lok Sabha in 2019, saying his preference is fulfilling the promises he made to the people during the last election.

JD(U) state president Bashishtha Narayan Singh had voiced similar point of view on holding simultaneous elections, but it was interpreted as if I am in favour of midterm election in the state, which is not true, Nitish clarified.
New Delhi: In the run-up to Uttar Pradesh elections early this year, BJP president Amit Shah asked a Union minister from the state, who was dropped in the recent reshuffle, to prepare for zila panchayat elections. It was a proposition fraught with risks. The Samajwadi Party was in power and political parties in government tend to have an upper hand in local body polls.

But then the party president was looking at it as an opportunity to test waters and expand base in the run-up to the high-stake battle in UP, reminisced the former minister in a chat earlier this year.

Any other BJP president would have probably played it safe. Or even wouldnt have taken the trouble of managing local body polls. Not Amit Shah.

Under Shah, the BJP is a voracious political animal with an insatiable appetite to expand. It has the hunger to succeed as it aims to replace the Congress as the natural party for governance  both at the Centre and in the states.

Though it is a fact that Shah is building the new-BJP on bedrock laid by millions of anonymous workers who toiled for decades when power was a distant dream. When cadre betrayed an uneasy diffidence about their political preferences; when it would take none less than a senior leader like L K Advani to publically implore karyakartas not to be apologetic about ideological moorings.

It no doubts helps to be the President when your party is in power at the Centre with a majority of its own.

But in the last three years, the BJP as a political institution has shown unconventional streaks both within and outside to surprise many of its staunchest adversaries.

It has brought what Congress leader Jairam Ramesh calls an existential crisis for the Grand Old Party. It has mellowed down a rather un-flappable Mani Shankar Aiyer to introspect. Gone is the swagger of January 2014 when he famously predicted that Chaiwala Narendra Modi will never be PM in the 21st Century. But if he wants to distribute tea here, we will find a place for him, quipped Aiyer.

There is a reason why the opposition in general and Congress as the main protagonist in particular are showing signs of nervousness. Because the BJP as a main pole in the polity under Modi-Shah today is both unpredictable and unsparing. It is a party which is daring to think big. It is aiming to breach frontiers which were hitherto considered beyond reach. And most importantly, it is matching its intentions with rigour and discipline on the ground.

You just have to travel 30 kilometers from the Capital on the National Highway-24 to make sense of it all. On Minakshi Road in downtown Hapur, Shishupal Sagar is the first one to reach the district party office.

He has been handpicked by the BJP and appointed to groom the party for the next general elections in the district which is part of Meerut Lok Sabha constituency. It has a relatively high percentage of Dalit votes.

The 30-year-old bachelor hails from Swar in Rampur district and started his political career as district Scheduled Caste morcha chief of Rampur.

I used to work as a foreman in a factory by night and do party work during the day. And then I was asked to oversee BJP preparations in Sambhal Assembly segment during Vidhan Sabha polls, says Shishupal.

File photo of Shishupal Sagar. (Image: Sumit Pande/news18.com)

He will now work fulltime for the partys expansion till 2019 general elections. We do not coordinate with anyone else but the top party brass in Lucknow. That is general secretary organisation, he says. He reports directly to Sunil Bansal, Amit Shahs close aide currently on deputation from the RSS.

How difficult it is to convince voters, especially Dalits in a milieu when Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party is seen as a natural choice for the community? Not really, Shishupal counters. We lost Sambhal in the last Assembly polls. But we were able to win over a substantial section of Dalit voters in the constituency by sheer tenacity, he says.

Like Shishupal, there are thousands of such full-time vistaraks who are quietly on deployment across the country, preparing for the next election. Whenever it happens, at whatever level from nagar panchayat to the Parliament.

This expansion programme is Shahs brainchild. It is a unique scheme which Shah has brought to the BJPs regimen. This is his silent army digging trenches for the next big battle.

More than three lakh vistaraks would be fanning out across the country in the next two years to expand the party and prepare for the next big challenge in 2019. 3,70,000 to be precise. A majority will devote a fortnight in a constituency. Some will work full-time for six months. Around 600 poorna-kalik vistaraks will oversee preparations till the next Lok Sabha elections.

For instance, 27-year-old Anmol Saxena is a management graduate who has left his job to work full-time for the BJP. He comes from Chandausi in Western UP and has been assigned to work in Noida Parliamentary constituency. Saxena is the eyes and the ears of the BJP in Noida, operating quietly out of a single room in an outhouse owned by BJP district secretary Yogendra Choudhery in Barola village.

It is important to segregate organisation from government, now that we are in power in UP, he says.

Far from dusty lanes of Hindi heartland, Bangalore Central MP PC Mohan was asked to devote at least 15 days for the expansion of the party  to take BJP and its ideology to areas outside his own constituency.

Shah himself is traveling to all provinces this year as a part of this programme. In Amit Shahs BJP, processes and procedures, schemes and programme are implemented and monitored at all levels. From the grassroots to the top. From Shishupal Sagar and Anmol Saxena to Shah himself.

The concept of vistarak as an instrument of ideological expansion is something which Shah has adapted straight from the RSS manual. While pracharaks are full-time workers bound by lifelong vow to celibacy, vistaraks can come from any walk of life  any swayamsewak for that matter, bachelor or married, retired or working  who devote a certain period every year to Sangh.

The flexibility attributed to vistarak thus, vis-a-vis that of a celibate pracharak makes former an ideal model in human resource mobilisation. The emphasis under the program is as much on ideological expansion as it is on booth management.

If recent Assembly polls are anything to go by, mobilisation of miscellaneous votes has been the hallmark of Shahs strategy in first past the post system. In Uttarakhand for instance, Congress vote share increased by a less than 1% as compared to the last Assembly. A close look at final data shows BJP was able to mop up votes from smaller parties to consolidate its position and win a three-forth majority.

For 2019, senior party leaders says BJP is eyeing 120 Lok Sabha seats it lost in 2014 general elections. There is bound to be some attrition in North, central and western provinces where we have already peaked. The idea is to win new seats to offset losses elsewhere, says a senior BJP leader.

Special emphasis is on areas where BJP has failed to cross the threshold to convert votes into seats. Shah is looking East, towards Coromandel coasts. In Tamil Nadu BJP is working on a plan to fill in the vacuum created by Jayalalithas death. An alliance with a united AIADMK will be better placed to take on DMK-Congress combine. In Kerala, it is aiming to emerge as the main opposition to the Left Front. In Karnataka, a second home run to Siddaramaiah would chock Congress of resources before the next general elections.

Recently, Shahs surprise nomination to Rajya Sabha has in a way completed the transition of Modi-Shah duo from Gandhinagar to Delhi. In a BJP Parliamentary Party meeting, PM Modi told MPs that leisure days are over. The message was loud and clear to everyone present in the room  from senior ministers to absentee lawmakers who go missing from the Parliament despite repeated reminders. That Amit Shah is here. And he is here to stay.
Google Tez has been launched in India today as the latest UPI-based payment method. The digital payment app comes as the tech giants first in India and will cater to both Android and iOS users across the country. With the launch, Google has become the latest player to offer digital payment services in India, after a sudden rise in digital transactions was seen after the demonetization drive that took place in the country last year. Google Tez works just like any other digital payment platform, allowing users to make payments or money transfers directly from their bank accounts after they link their accounts to the Google app.

As per the Google Tez website, the app currently works with all the major banks in India as well as with the majority of the smartphones. The app provides support in 8 languages, including English, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu. To get started with it, users can download the app on their Android or iOS devices for free and link their bank accounts to it. Once it is done, they can make payments through the apps Cash Mode. To prevent potential misuse, users are also required to set a Google PIN or screen lock on the app. Once the account is set, Google Tez will let users make money transfers without sharing any personal information like the bank account number or even their phone number.

As of now, Google has partnered with Axis, HDFC Bank, ICICI and State Bank of India for the backend processing. Google has also listed RedBus, Dominos, Jet Airways, PVR Cinemas and DishTV as launch partners on the website. Users can look for a Tez logo or use the Tez UPI ID on a product/ service to check if the mode of payment is available for it or not.

Google claims that the transactions done through the app are secured with the users UPI PIN while the app itself is protected by the Google PIN or the screen lock method of the user. Google employs Tez Shield to help detect fraud, prevent hacking, and verify your identity. The company also promises 24x7 phone and chat support to users as and when required.

For promotional purposes, Google has also come up with Tez Scratch Cards, which the users can earn as they use the app. The Scratch Cards promise up to Rs 1,000 cash prize with each transaction through the app, while a weekly draw titled Lucky Sunday also offers a chance to win Rs 1 Lakh reward.

Google has also announced a business variant of the digital payment app which will let business owners accept payments directly to their bank accounts through the app. Online businesses can also create a business channel on the app, giving them better visibility through the Google Tez app. The channels are customizable and can be used to put up tailored offers by the businesses. Google says that it is working towards accepting other types of current accounts for shopkeepers as well.

Watch Video: Apple iPhone X | First Look | Best iPhone Yet?
Social media platform Snapchat has blocked access to Al Jazeera content in Saudi Arabia, the media reported on Monday. The popular photo-sharing app said it was asked by the Saudi authorities to remove the Qatari-backed broadcaster's Discover Publisher Channel because it violated local laws, reports the BBC. "We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement. Qatar is in an ongoing dispute with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The four countries cut ties with Qatar earlier this year, accusing the country of supporting terrorism. After the start of the dispute, Saudi Arabia had also demanded the Qatari government to shut Al Jazeera altogether as one of 13 conditions to remove sanctions against the country. However, those conditions were later withdrawn.

Also Watch: Asus Zenfone 4 Selfie, Selfie Pro & Selfie Dual Camera | First Look
Beijing: China has opened a strategic highway in Tibet to the Nepal border which could be used for civilian and defence purposes, a move that Chinese experts say will enable Beijing to make forays into South Asia, according to a media report on Monday.

The 40.4 km highway in Tibet between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday with a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border.

The highway will shorten the journey from an hour to 30 minutes between the dual-use civil and military airport and Tibet's second-largest city.

State-run 'Global Times' quoted experts as saying that the highway "will enable China to forge a route into South Asia in both economic and defence terms" and being a forerunner to a railway line connecting Nepal.

Geographically, any extension of the road and railway connectivity to South Asia is through India, Bhutan and to Bangladesh.

Chinese officials have said in the past that the projects are feasible and could become a trade corridor for India and China if New Delhi comes on board.

The new road runs parallel with the Xigaze-Lhasa railway and links the city's ring roads with the 5,476-kilometre G318 highway from Shanghai to Zhangmu on the Nepal border, the report said.

As part of G318, the highway connects the border town of Zhangmu with Lhasa, the provincial capital of Tibet. It can link with the future cross-border Sino-Nepali railway, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

The G318 with Xigaze in the middle connects to Nepal on one end and other end links to Nyingchi, the Tibetan town close to Arunachal Pradesh border. The highway runs very close to the border.

China has been stepping efforts to improve road connectivity between Tibet and Nepal while speeding up plans to build a railway line connecting to Nepal's border after K P Sharma Oli, pro-China former Nepalese Prime Minister, signed a Transit Trade Treaty with Beijing last year during his tenure.

Oli signed the treaty at the height of the Madhesi agitation and their blockade of Indian goods to provide a major opening for China to reduce the dependence of the landlocked country on India, even as the transportation of essentials through the Himalayan terrain of Tibet would entail heavy costs for Nepal.

However, since the fall of Oli government, China's plans to speed up its efforts to make forays into Nepal through infrastructure expansion slowed down even though Kathmandu signed up for Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative in May this year.

The 25-meter-wide highway between Xigaze peace airport and Xigaze has four double lanes and is classified a first-tier highway, the Tibet Financial Daily reported.

"Highways in China are of a high standard including the one in Tibet. It can be used by armoured vehicles and as a runway for planes to take off when it has to serve a military purpose," Zhao said.

"The road is Tibet's first real highway. It is our gift toward the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China," Wei Qianggao, deputy head of the Tibet transportation department was quoted as saying by the Global Times.

As an important infrastructure programme in the 13th Five-Year Plan and a core section of Tibet highway network, the road will benefit the export-oriented economy of Xigaze and the complex traffic around Lhasa, Wei said.

Over five years, the standard of highways in Tibet and the traffic network have been gradually improved, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang Jinhe, another official from the Tibet transportation department, the report said.

The total highway mileage in Tibet reached more than 80,000 kilometres in 2016, increasing nearly 19,000 km since 2011, Wang said.
Lahore: Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah will foray into Pakistan's political scene by contesting the 2018 general elections, a senior member of the outfit said, a day after its candidate finished third in a crucial by-poll.

Last month, Jamaat-ud-Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, announced that it was launching the Milli Muslim League.

Sheikh Yaqoob, a JuD-backed candidate who was defeated by ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's wife Kuslsoom from a parliamentary seat that fell vacant after he was disqualified by the Supreme Court, said the new front "will field candidates in every constituency of the country in next year's election."

Yaqoob wanted to contest Sunday's election from Milli Muslim League, launched just before the NA-120 by-poll, but could not do so as the Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to register it as a political party.

Yaqoob was placed in 2012 on a US Treasury sanctions list of those designated as leaders of terrorist organisations, The New York Times reported.

"We have got a very good response in NA-120. It was our first election and people have welcomed us," said Yaqoob, who contested as an independent candidate.

"We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies - India, United States and Israel - and at the same time help them in solving their basic livelihood problems," he said.

The JuD formed Milli Muslim League at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore.

Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti- terrorism act.

The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.
New York: US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and discussed the current situation in Syria, an official has said.

The meeting between the two leaders took place at the Russian mission in New York ahead of the UN General Assembly, State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said.

"The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward, pursuant to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254," Nauert said in a statement.

Tillerson had termed the relations between the US and Russia at a "historic" post-Cold War low, amid a tit-for-tat cuts to each other's diplomatic missions.

The US recently ordered Russia to shut its the Consulate in San Francisco and offices in Washington and New York.

Russia responded by promising a "tough response" to the US order which had come after Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered that the US cut its diplomatic staff in Russia by 755 employees.

Putin's order itself was in retaliation against new sanctions imposed in July after the US Congress decided to punish Moscow for its reported interference in the 2016 American presidential election.

The US wants to work with Russia to help resolve the crisis in Syria, where both have military forces deployed, and the rivals are trying to work through their differences.
The U.S. Senate is reviewing a defense bill for 2018 that includes the redeployment of submarine-based nuclear missiles in the Asia-Pacific region.

The plan is apparently aimed at deterring North Korean nuclear and missile provocations.

Senator Mazie Hirono, a Democrat from Hawaii, proposed the amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act in July. It calls for several changes in U.S. nuclear weapons deployment, including redeployment of submarine-based nuclear cruise missiles that were pulled out of the Asia-Pacific region some 20 years ago.

It also calls for the deployment of aircraft that can carry both conventional and nuclear weapons in the region, extending the missile defense network and stepping up military drills with allies.

The bill will be put to the vote once hundreds of revisions proposed by senators have been reviewed. The ruling Republican Party hopes that will happen this month.


Cox's Bazaar (Bangladesh): Rohingya Muslims fleeing a Myanmar military offensive arrived in Bangladesh on Monday with fresh accounts of violence and arson as a rights group called for sanctions and an arms embargo to stop what the United Nations has branded ethnic cleansing.

The latest wave of violence in western Myanmar's Rakhine State began on August 25, when Rohingya insurgents attacked police posts and an army camp, killing about 12 people.

The Myanmar military response has sent more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing to Bangladesh, escaping what they and rights monitors say is a campaign aimed at driving out the Muslim population.

Buddhist-majority Myanmar rejects that, saying its forces are carrying out clearance operations against the insurgents of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which claimed responsibility for the August attacks and smaller raids in October.

Hundreds of refugees travelled by small boats to an island on the southernmost point of Bangladesh late on Sunday and on Monday, telling of persecution and destruction.

"The army came and they burned our homes, they killed our people. There was a mob of Rakhine people too," said Usman Goni, 55, after he stepped off a boat with his seven children and wife, clutching two sticks tied in rope and a sack.

Many of the refugees have spoken of ethnic Rakhine Buddhist civilians joining the Myanmar army in its attacks. Myanmar denies that and has blamed Muslim insurgents for the violence.

Myanmar has largely sealed the area off to aid workers and reporters.

Rights groups say satellite images show about 80 smouldering Muslim villages. They have seen evidence of arson attacks on Buddhist villagers but on a much smaller scale.

SUU KYI TO SPEAK

Most of the new arrivals said their villages had been torched on Friday when huge clouds of smoke were clearly seen over Myanmar.

"There's nothing left," said a Nurhaba, 23, who said she was from a village close to Maungdaw town.

About a million Rohingya lived in Rakhine State until the recent violence. Most face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

Myanmar government leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi has faced a barrage of criticism from abroad for not stopping the violence.

The military remains in charge of security and there is little sympathy for the Rohingya in a country where the end of army rule has unleashed old animosities. The military campaign in Rakhine State has wide support.

Suu Kyi is due to speak to the nation on Tuesday about a crisis the United States has called a "defining moment" for her country.

US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Patrick Murphy is due in Myanmar this week.

He will travel to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State, to meet government officials and representatives of different communities, including Rohingya, but he is not seeking to travel to the conflict zone in northern Rakhine State.

'STRATEGICALLY SOUND'

Human Rights Watch said Myanmar security forces were disregarding world condemnation and the time had come to impose tougher measures that the generals could not ignore.

It called for governments to "impose travel bans and asset freezes on security officials implicated in serious abuses; expand existing arms embargoes to include all military sales, assistance, and cooperation; and place a ban on financial transactions with key... military-owned enterprises".

For years, the United States and Western allies imposed sanctions on Myanmar in support of Suu Kyi's campaign for democracy. Its response was to forge closer ties with China.

US-Myanmar ties have been improving since the military began withdrawing from the government in 2011, and paved the way for a 2015 election won by Suu Kyi's party.

A Trump administration official said the violence made it harder to build warmer ties, and there would likely be some "easing" in the short term, but he did not expect a return to sanctions.

"People are too invested in the last five years of thawing, which is understood by everyone to be strategically sound," said the official, who declined to be identified.

"Long-term, the trajectory is probably tighter relations."

In a rare expression of support for the Rohingya from within Myanmar, a group from the Karen ethnic minority, called for the military to halt its operations and for economic sanctions to be considered.

For decades of army battled autonomy-seeking Karen insurgents that sent more than 100,000 villagers fleeing to Thailand. The insurgents have now made peace.

Bangladesh is struggling to cope with the refugees and aid workers fear people could die due to a lack of food, shelter and water, given the numbers.

Bangladesh has said all refugees must go home. Myanmar has said it will take back those who can verify their citizenship.

Several thousand protesters tried to march on the Myanmar embassy in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, but police kept them well back.
Dubai: Snapchat has blocked Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera from its app in Saudi Arabia at the request of Saudi authorities, the image sharing service said Monday, as tensions simmer between the Gulf states.

Saudi authorities have accused Al Jazeera of acting as a mouthpiece for extremist groups, a charge it denies.

Alongside the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia imposed a blockade on Qatar in June, in the worst diplomatic crisis to roil the Gulf in years.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," said a spokesman for parent company Snap Inc.

Al Jazeera condemned the blocking as an assault on freedom of expression.

"We find Snapchat's action to be alarming and worrying," the broadcaster's acting director general Mostefa Souag said in a statement.

"This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they don't agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms."

Snap Inc. said Saudi authorities had asked it to block Al Jazeera's account in the kingdom before the weekend, arguing that the broadcaster's Discover channel violated local laws.

The broadcaster's website has been blocked in Saudi Arabia for months and authorities shut down its office in the Kingdom when the crisis broke out in June.

So far, Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel can still be viewed in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt.

The Saudi-led alliance has issued a list of 13 demands to Qatar, accusing it of backing extremism and fostering ties with Riyadh's Shiite rival Tehran.

Doha denies the charges, claiming the blockade is an attack on its sovereignty.

The crisis has entered its fourth month and is showing no sign of ending, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia, with its bulging youth population, is among the world's top per capita users of social media.

The internet represents a limited space for freedom of expression in the conservative kingdom.
President Moon Jae-in and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump on Sunday agreed to impose stronger sanctions on North Korea.

In a telephone conversation, the two leaders "agreed to strengthen cooperation and exert stronger and practical sanctions so that the regime realizes provocative action leads to further diplomatic isolation and economic pressure," Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Park Soo-hyun told reporters.

Moon and Trump discussed responses to the North's latest nuclear test and the launch of a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile on Friday.

Their conversation lasted 25 minutes, and the transcript was reviewed by both sides before being released to the public.


It was a show filled with emotional acceptance speeches, political jokes and unexpected cameos. Here are 15 things you need to know from Sunday night's Emmy Awards:

1. "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Big Little Lies" dominated.

Want to bet the champagne bottles are popping at Hulu? The streaming service landed five wins on Sunday for "The Handmaid's Tale," its critically acclaimed drama based on the 1985 dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood. This is the first original series on Hulu to get this much awards attention, winning for best drama; lead drama actress (Elizabeth Moss); supporting drama actress (Ann Dowd); directing for a drama; and writing for a drama.

Meanwhile, HBO is accustomed to award show domination but is clearly thrilled at the victories for "Big Little Lies," which also went home with five trophies, including limited series; limited series actress (Nicole Kidman); limited series supporting actress (Laura Dern); limited series supporting actor (Alexander Skarsgard); and directing for a limited series.

2. "Saturday Night Live" triumphed.

Including the Creative Emmy awards, which were handed out Sept. 9 and 10, NBC's SNL had nine total wins, the most of any show. On Sunday night, Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon were honored for comedy supporting actor and supporting actress, respectively, and the show also picked up best variety sketch series and directing for a variety series. The number of wins were certainly expected, given the amount of material the show had to work with this year.

"I remember the first time we won this award, it was after our first season in 1976. And I remember thinking, as I was standing there, alone, that this was it. This was the high point. There would never be another season as crazy, as unpredictable, as frightening, as exhausting, or as exhilarating," executive producer Lorne Michaels said onstage. "Turns out I was wrong."

3. Dave Chappelle and John Oliver got #DCPublicSchools trending on Twitter.

While presenting an award with Melissa McCarthy, there were several awkward pauses, and Chappelle joked that he skipped rehearsal. "Now I will read this teleprompter, please forgive me," the Washington native said. "Shout out to D.C. public schools." Later, Oliver thanked the school system, because he thought it would be fun to see it trend on Twitter. It worked!

4. Women were the big winners throughout the night.

As you can tell from the winners above, two of the most successful shows of the night were female-centric stories. The topic came up several times. In her acceptance speech, Dern said she has worked with "maybe 12 women" in her decades of acting, so she thanked the TV academy for honoring "this incredible tribe of fierce women." In his monologue, host Stephen Colbert pointed to 13-year-old nominee Millie Bobby Brown ("Stranger Things"), who proved "once and for all that there are roles in Hollywood for women over 12."

"This is a friendship that then created opportunities," Nicole Kidman said of her bond with the cast and "Big Little Lies" co-star Reese Witherspoon, who urged Hollywood to "bring women to the front of their own stories" when the cast accepted the best drama trophy. "It created opportunities out of a frustration because we weren't getting offered great roles. So now, more great roles for women, please."

5. Stephen Colbert took plenty of shots at President Donald Trump, along with Ted Cruz and HBO.

Colbert mocking Trump? You don't say! True to form, the CBS late-night host took great delight in trolling the president. ("Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote.") Other targets of his monologue included Sen. Cruz. ("These days, everybody loves streaming video. Just ask Ted Cruz. But knock first.") and HBO's hacking situation ("I am sure HBO will take home a lot of Emmys tonight, which they'll have to melt down to pay for next year's hacker ransom.")

6. Sean Spicer showed up.

Toward the end of his monologue, Colbert lamented there was no way to tell how many people really watched the Emmys - and suddenly, Sean Spicer rolled in on a podium to announce "This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period, both in person and around the world!" The Hollywood crowd cheered loudly for Trump's press secretary making fun of himself, while many viewers at home argued that Spicer's appearance went too far to "normalize" him.

7. Donald Glover had a great night.

The "Atlanta" creator and star won best comedy actor and directing in a comedy, becoming the first black director to win the trophy. Glover thanked his parents; his girlfriend, who's pregnant with their second child; FX; the city of Atlanta; and one other person.

"I want to thank Trump for making black people No. 1 on the most oppressed list," Glover said. "He's the reason I'm probably up here."

8. Lena Waithe's speech

Waithe and "Master of None" creator-star Aziz Ansari won the comedy writing trophy for their "Thanksgiving" episode, which tells the story of Waithe's character coming out to her family, inspired by her real-life experiences. Waithe, the first black woman to win a comedy writing Emmy, immediately made headlines for this excerpt from her speech:

"My LGBQTIA family, I see each and every one of you. The things that make us different, those are our superpowers. Every day when you walk out the door, put on your imaginary cape and go out there and conquer the world, because the world would not be as beautiful as it is if we weren't in it. And for everybody out there that showed so much love for this episode, thank you for embracing a little Indian boy from South Carolina and a little queer black girl from the south side of Chicago."

9. Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin (of Netflix's "Grace and Frankie") and Dolly Parton had a "9 to 5" reunion.

The trio, who starred together in the 1980 comedy, got some of the biggest cheers of the show as they presented the award for outstanding actor in a limited series. It led to this banter:

Fonda: "Back in 1980, in that movie, we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot."

Tomlin: "And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot."

Fonda: "That being said, tonight we're here to recognize some men who conduct themselves with the utmost integrity."

Tomlin: "They're nominated for their extraordinary work in supporting roles."

Parton: "Well, I know about support."

10. Alec Baldwin finally earned Trump that coveted Emmy.

Trump was upset that "The Apprentice" never won an Emmy, so as Baldwin accepted his prize for supporting actor in a comedy series, he had some comforting words.

"I suppose I should say at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy," Baldwin said. He continued: "I want to thank my wife. My wife and I had three children in three years, and we didn't have a child last year during the SNL season. I wonder if there is a correlation there - all you men up there, you put that orange wig on, it's birth control, trust me."

11. Sterling K. Brown won best actor in a drama - then his speech was cut off.

The "This Is Us" actor appeared in awe as he talked about all the other great characters that won this trophy - Walter White of "Breaking Bad," Dick Whitman of "Mad Men," Frank Pembleton on "Homicide: Life on the Street." He also thanked his castmates for being "the best white TV family that a brother has ever had." Eventually, he got loudly played off by the music, upsetting many on Twitter. (E! reports he finished the speech backstage.)

12. In memoriam snubs

People are always upset when certain stars are left out of the tribute segment. This year, many were upset that Dick Gregory and Charlie Murphy didn't make the cut.

13. Ann Dowd is the most surprised person of the night.

Dowd (who hates when you call her a "character actor") looked genuinely shocked as she won supporting drama actress for her role in "The Handmaid's Tale." She walked slowly to the stage, collecting herself. "I think this is a dream, you know? I know it's an actor's dream and I'm deeply grateful to you," she said, her voice shaking. "I have been acting for a long time and that this should happen now, I don't have the words, so I thank you."

14. Nicole Kidman's speech

The movie star picked up the drama actress prize for "Big Little Lies," in which she plays a woman in an abusive marriage. "We shone a light on domestic abuse," she said. "It is a complicated, insidious disease. It exists far more than we allow ourselves to know. It is filled with shame and secrecy. And by you acknowledging me with this award, it shines a light on it even more."

15. Jimmy Kimmel poked fun at the Oscars mix-up.

After Oliver won out over Kimmel and Colbert for the best variety talk show, the camera panned to the two late-show hosts drowning their sorrows in drinks. "You know, sometimes they put the wrong name on the envelope," Kimmel said hopefully. "I mean, it's possible that that happened here, right?"

"Not tonight," Colbert assured him.
A North Korean missile that flew some 3,700 km over Japan last Friday morning was a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile. It was the first to be launched from a mobile launcher.

After watching the launch, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said efforts "for increasing combat power of Hwasong-12 has been realized," according to North Korean state media on Saturday. That suggests the missile is now ready for mass-production and deployment.

Back in May and August, the North fired the same missiles from a fixed launch pad. Experts believe the failure of eight launches of Musudan medium-range missiles in the past could be linked to their mobile launchers exploding.

"This suggests that the Hwasong-12 now has reliable functions after various stages of trial and error," a researcher with a government-funded think tank here said.


newsandtech.com expired on 10/18/2022 and is pending renewal or deletion.

Backorder Domain
The military fired two Hyunmu-2A missiles on Friday in response to North Korea's missile launches earlier that day, but one sputtered into the ocean.

The Hyunmu-2A is a home-made missile developed to respond to the North Korean missile threats and comprises the core of the South's "kill chain" preemptive strike system. Each missile costs around W2 billion (US$1=W1,132).

The military fired the Hyunmu-2A missiles from a base in Gangwon Province at around 7 a.m., just about six minutes after North Korea launched what is believed to have been a Hwasong-12 missile from Sunan International Airport in Pyongyang. It was a swift response made while the Hwasong-12 was still in flight.
Woman SRP wants to wear hijab on duty

WS RP Sharon Roop, who is based at the Central Operations Centre at the Chaguanas Police Station as a wireless operator, said she was a practising Muslim and is being denied her constitutional right to freedom of conscience and religious beliefs.

Roop, an officer for eight years, is represented by attorneys Anand Ramlogan,SC, Jayanti Lutchmedial and Robert Abdool-Mitchell.

The lawsuit will be heard by Justice Margaret Mohammed.

In pleading with the court to grant her reliefs sought, Roop said she was advised by the TTPS legal officer that the Acting Commissioner of Police was unable to accede to her request to wear a hijab on duty until there is a change in the legislation.

In her lawsuit, Roop said three years ago she began wearing the hijab (which covers a womans hair) and asked her superiors to be able to wear the head wear while on duty.

She said she was advised to write to the Commissioner of Police to seek permission to wear the hijab with her uniform and provided photographs of ways in which the head wear could be worn with her uniform.

She also provided photographs of law enforcement officers in several non-Islamic countries, such as the United Kingdom and Canada, who have been given the permission to wear the hijab while on duty in uniform.

Roop said she has received no response from the office of the Commissioner.

She has also written to the Minister of National Security and the TTPS Social and Welfare Association.

Roop said when she is on duty she is prevented from truly practising her religion and following its teachings because she is not allowed to wear the hijab.

I am forced to remove my headscarf before exiting my vehicle on the police station compound and throughout the day, I am left feeling naked, exposed and ashamed because I am forced to disobey the religious instructions which I have received, she complained in her lawsuit.

Roop also said she was turned away from the Womens Police Bureau of the TTPS and told she could be disciplined and prosecuted for not wearing her uniform as prescribed.

She was also told she could not wear darker coloured stockings to cover her legs while on duty and to wear the night uniform during the day was a breach of the TTPS Regulations.

I was very disheartened and discouraged by this response as no one seemed to understand the emotional and psychological impact of being forced to disobey my religion, she said.

As it stands I am being forced to choose between prasticing my religion and being a member of the TTPS, she said, adding that she cannot afford to resign her job because she is a single mother.

Roop said the situation has caused her immense mental anguish and she has had to seek counselling with the police psychologist to cope with the stress and has been subjected to bias and discrimination by certain senior officers.

Roop further said in her lawsuit she was advised by a senior officer of the Central Division that she could not be trusted in the wireless room when things were getting hot in Enterprise, Chaguanas, and an attempt was made to have her transferred.

She said the TTPS Regulations make no allowance for items of clothing prescribed by certain religious faiths and because of this she is prevented from observing practices associated with her religious belief.
Garcia congratulates new UWI chancellor

In a statement yesterday, the ministry said in addition to his words of congratulations, Minister Garcia offered the support of the Ministry in continuing a strong and dynamic relationship with the UWI.

Minister Garcia stated It is my hope that the Ministry of Education and by extension the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, can work with the University of the West Indies to continue the development of human resource in innovative ways that aid to strengthen the Caribbean economy.
Khan wishes Cuffie a speedy recovery

In a statement, Khan said after being hospitalised just over a week ago, the news has been fairly grim regarding Cuffies recovery.

However we must not lose hope in the ability of our nations doctors, or Mr. Cuffies own resilience as he has demonstrated in his political career, Khan added. He has also offered prayers to the minister and his family and called on the nation to do the same.

As an elected official, Mr. Cuffie swore an oath to serve this country and his fellow man, and so in his time of struggle we should not overlook this. I therefore wish him a full, and hopefully speedy recovery, so that he may resume his life and portfolio, Khan said.
YTC youths welcome second chance at math

I didnt like mathematics in the past and never really put my mind to it when I was in school.

But this workshop has been very interesting. Our tutor used practical examples to teach us the subject and made it really simple to understand.

I hope to be an electrical engineer in the future and I know, for sure, that I have to pass math to achieve this goal, said 16-year old Joel Rambally.

Cleavon Walcott, 17, wants to enter the fire service and he knows that math is one of the keys to realising his dream. I am looking forward to getting into the service and to be a fireman. I know that passing mathematics will help me along that path. The techniques I learnt during the workshop were easy to follow and I am confident that I will do well when I sit the examinations next year. I am really happy that I decided to attend this course, said Walcott.

The Annual BPTT Young Adult Math Experience offers young men and women a second chance to study mathematics, a taxing subject for many, in a relaxed and fun environment. Now in its seventh year, the initiative started off with students from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) It covered training at five locations this year, Port of Spain, Diego Martin, Mayaro, YTC (Arouca) and Tobago. The workshops are facilitated by training agency, Cross and Associates, with tutor Nicole Lord overseeing the YTC session.

This year marks the second edition of the annual math experience at the YTC, with Acting Assistant Superintendant of Prisons, Avellina Augustine-Kanhai, lauding BPTT for giving the youths a second opportunity to revive their interest in the subject.

It is always a pleasure to see learning taking place, especially among youths. Within the service, we have a programme of education and skills training and we ensure that everyone is afforded the opportunity to learn and improve themselves. We thank BPTT wholeheartedly for enhancing our learning activity and providing these young men with this chance to move forward in life. I also want to thank all the coordinators of the programme, parents and the facilitators, for partnering with us to make a real difference in the lives of these young men. Thank you all for your labour of love, said Augustine- Kanhai. Joel Primus, Community Sustainability and Stakeholder relations Advisor, BPTT, told the graduates that while some people tend to have a negative view of YTC youths, their participation in the workshop demonstrated that something positive and heartening was taking place at the institution.

Your graduation this morning shows that you have already embarked on a new life for yourselves which will usher great hope for your future. Irrespective of what happened in your past, it is important to look ahead and plan for the future. Use this math experience as a building block for your new life, Primus urged the young graduates.

He gave the assurance that BPTT would continue to support the math experience at the YTC and will support this initiative in other ways to help in your development for life.

Also addressing the graduates was Andrew Cross, Principal/Consultant, Cross and Associates, who told them that their graduation celebrated the end of a programme and heralded the celebration of a new beginning. Mathematics is a vehicle for positive change in your life. Whenever you make mistakes, you need to correct them. That is the objective of math and this opportunity should serve to change your life for the better, Cross advised the graduates.
Chile and Mexico in joint celebration

Schmidt in his welcome remarks stated: We cannot miss a word of condolences for the victims of the earthquake that harshly hit the south of Mexico last week and a deep solidarity with all those who have lost their lives and properties by the devastating passage of hurricanes Harvey, Katia and Irma.

Chile will assist the concerned governments in their reconstruction as it was stated by the President of the Republic, Michelle Bachelet. He then said spoke on the bilateral relation between Chile and TT in the past year, stating that it has been one characterised by a number of achievements, beginning with the historic official visit of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley and his delegation to his country on May 28 and 29, and of the political consultations that took place this year. He said: Both represent the excellent level of compliment and commitment for continuing the process of improving our ties. In the area of trade, Schmidt spoke of the Partial Scope Trade Agreement that will be signed next month for a feasibility study to be done, and in terms of cooperation, he said several initiatives are in train on coastal erosion, senior public management and a new workshop on Search and Rescue to be held in Barbados.

In the social sphere, Schmidt is hoping an MOU will be signed, thus propelling the laying of the foundation for successful Chilean experiences in working with vulnerable youth, such as the Futbol Mas NGO in TT.

Chile will also participate in the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival with the movie entitled Neruda, accompanied by the President of the Association of Chilean Film Producers. Schmidt said: Our goal is to encourage dialogue between the creative minds in both countries.

We are also working with the National Steelpan Symphonic Orchestra on a musical production to pay tribute to Chilean artist Violeta Parra in the Centenary of her birth, and on launching a work of Chilean literature translated for young audiences in the English-speaking Caribbean. The Ambassador said all these activities aim to change this relationship into something vibrant, with a solid foundation enriched by several developments that will unite us even more in the future.

Schmidt concluded: We want values to prevail  the values that have always underpinned our relationship, starting with strengthening representative democracy, and expanding the levels of participation and transparency of institutions.

Jesus Lopez-Gonzales, Ambassador of Mexico, briefly explained why the Ambassadors of Chile and Mexico decided to hold their countries most important annual celebration together. He said: Mexico and Chile share a deep, mutual appreciation, which has been built through decades of friendship and solidarity among our countries and our peoples. He then spoke of the 1920s, when Mexico was recovering from its Civil War, Chiles renowned poet and educator, Gabriela Mistral traveled to Mexico City to assist Mexicos Minister of Education create what is today Mexicos public education system. Then in the 1970s, Mexico opened its arms to give refuge to hundreds of Chilean nationals seeking protection, many of whom stayed to contribute to Mexicos development.

However in spite of the recent passage of hurricane Katia and an earthquake that took the lives of 96 people and caused considerable damage to infrastructure and homes, Lopez-Gonzales said: Relief and reconstruction efforts are now underway, and fortunately our robust economy will allow for these efforts to be competed as soon as possible.
The U.S. earlier this year slammed the brakes on returning full operational control of Korean troops to South Korea.

As part of a roadmap, the two allies agreed in 2014 to create a new joint command, headed by a South Korean military officer and a U.S. subcommander, which will replace the Combined Forces Command when full operational control of Korean troops returns to Seoul. The new command would be similar in structure to CFC, which is headed by the U.S. Forces Korea commander, and take charge of its key wartime functions.

But the USFK has asked for talks about the new command to be halted, it emerged Sunday. The U.S. has rarely agreed to subject its soldiers to the command of a foreign officer. Some pundits believe that if such a command structure is set up, Washington would no longer intervene automatically with a massive troop deployment if war breaks out on the Korean Peninsula.

A government source on Sunday said USFK chief Vincent Brooks "requested early this year to halt talks about crating the new command, so discussion has stopped." The source added Gen. Brooks' "in principle wants to abide by the agreement, but the entire project will have to be reconsidered since additional talks are not taking place."

Seoul views the request as a call to reconsider the post-handover command structure. President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed in June on a speedy transfer of wartime operational control to Seoul. But no talks have taken place since.

South Korea and the U.S. originally agreed to return full control of its own troops to Seoul by 2015. But they revised the plan in 2014 and agreed to complete the handover once the time is ripe -- i.e. when South Korea is in a better position to handle its own defense. They set a tentative new deadline of the mid-2020s. But when Moon came to power, he presented a timeframe that falls within his five-year term.


I think the MDC-T now needs to look beyond Tsvangirai, he has done his part and he needs to rest. His latest images show that he is deteriorating, he should consider his health more than anything else. The electoral period is rigorous and intense and its a matter of concern if he is going to pull through, but whoever should takeover should go through democratic processes and not by direct appointment, Vava said.
MDC-Ts application challenging President Mugabes proclamation of biometric voter registration (BVR) dates is expected to be heard today in the High Court.







According to Proclamation No 6 of 2017, the BVR process runs from September 14 to January 15 next year.

In its application filed at the High Court on Tuesday last week under a certificate of urgency, MDC-T argues that President Mugabe should not have proclaimed voter registration dates before the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) procures Biometric-metric Voters Registration servers which store data.





In his affidavit, the opposition party secretary-general, Mr Douglas Mwonzora stated that ZEC informed a high-level political platform involving MDC-T and other political parties that 400 electoral biometric kits for training purposes had been procured.





According to the party, it was expected that a further 2 600 kits would be procured for the actual new voter registration process countrywide.





The kits work with servers which are used to store biometric data gathered in the registration process, said Mr Mwonzora. There would be district servers and a national server.





Mr Mwonzora further argued that there were concerns on the custody, location of servers, transmission of data from polling station to the district servers and national server and access of political parties to inspect the servers before information is stored and audit

information stored on the servers.





The date fixed to commence new voter registration is highly ambitious and untenable, he said.

On Thursday last week, President Mugabe officially launched the BVR exercise at State House and became the first person to be registered under the new system that would be used in the creation of a new voters roll for the 2018 harmonised elections.

The President said he proclaimed the date for the commencement of voter registration on the advice of the ZEC.





He also applauded ZEC for coming up with a new voter registration system.

As Government, we stand guided by our Constitution and ZEC on how elections are to be run in this country. The Constitution of Zimbabwe enjoins Government to play a facilitative role in terms of resourcing and protecting the independence, impartiality, and integrity of such institutions, the President said.





He urged all people aged 18 and above to go and register at centres that will be established. The BVR exercise is a new registration for all citizens who are 18 years and above. I therefore urge all eligible Zimbabweans to go to their established centres to register in their numbers, he said.





ZEC chairperson Justice Rita Makarau reiterated that the Presidents proclamation setting dates for the commencement of the voter registration exercise was meant to give legal effect to the process.





She said voter registration would start in other districts countrywide today, following last weeks official launch.





ZEC has so far received 400 kits, some of which have been used to train the technicians that would be involved in the registration exercise.





Justice Makarau added that ZEC would conduct a national blitz to register all eligible voters once the remaining 2 600 kits are delivered.





She said the electoral body will publish the registration centres in due course, established in each ward. Herald




Misheck Tiki (28)s whereabouts are still unknown and police have launched a manhunt for him. The incident occurred while they were having lunch. Chief police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba confirmed the incident.



The prisoner, Misheck Tiki, was convicted of theft at Kadoma Magistrate Court on June 20, 2016 and sentenced to five years in prison, she said. Circumstances are that the prisoner was out on duty at Alphida Barracks and took the opportunity to escape during lunch, when everyone was relaxing.



Snr Asst Comm Charamba said Tiki has a scar on the right leg and an amputated right index finger. He was last seen wearing a blue track suit top, white short and T-shirt.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba appealed to anyone with information that might lead to his arrest to contact any nearest police station or the national complaints desk on (04) 703631.

In October 2014, there were reports that at least 78 prisoners had escaped from the countrys correctional facilities between 2013 and 2014, raising concerns over the laxity of security at prisons.



Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services spokesperson Chief Superintendent Elizabeth Banda said then that despite the incidents, Zimbabwe was still within the international standards in terms of prison security.



B Class prisoners, she said, constituted the majority of those that escaped since they were allowed to work outside their prisons.



Chief Supt Banda said Mashonaland region had the highest number of escapees, while two officers were assaulted during the incidents. Herald A criminal serving a five-year jail term for theft escaped from prison guards who were monitoring him and other prisoners as they performed manual work at Zimbabwe National Armys Alphida Barracks in Chinamhora on Tuesday.Misheck Tiki (28)s whereabouts are still unknown and police have launched a manhunt for him. The incident occurred while they were having lunch. Chief police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba confirmed the incident.The prisoner, Misheck Tiki, was convicted of theft at Kadoma Magistrate Court on June 20, 2016 and sentenced to five years in prison, she said. Circumstances are that the prisoner was out on duty at Alphida Barracks and took the opportunity to escape during lunch, when everyone was relaxing.Snr Asst Comm Charamba said Tiki has a scar on the right leg and an amputated right index finger. He was last seen wearing a blue track suit top, white short and T-shirt.Snr Asst Comm Charamba appealed to anyone with information that might lead to his arrest to contact any nearest police station or the national complaints desk on (04) 703631.In October 2014, there were reports that at least 78 prisoners had escaped from the countrys correctional facilities between 2013 and 2014, raising concerns over the laxity of security at prisons.Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services spokesperson Chief Superintendent Elizabeth Banda said then that despite the incidents, Zimbabwe was still within the international standards in terms of prison security.B Class prisoners, she said, constituted the majority of those that escaped since they were allowed to work outside their prisons.Chief Supt Banda said Mashonaland region had the highest number of escapees, while two officers were assaulted during the incidents. Herald
Install the Newser News app

in two easy steps:

1. Tap in your navigation bar.

2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.




The four young American women sprayed in the face with acid in a train station in France Sunday morning are Boston College students studying overseas. The women, all juniors, have been identified as Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman, and Michelle Krug, who are studying in the school's Paris program, and Kelsey Kosten, who's studying at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, the Boston Globe reports. The women were in Marseille, about to board a train to Paris, when they were attacked by a woman police have described as a "disturbed" 41-year-old with a history of psychiatric problems.

All four American women were hospitalized, two of them for shock, and released. None of them were seriously injured, though one of them plans to see an eye doctor on Monday, Boston College says. "It appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances, though they may require additional treatment for burns," says a rep for Boston College's Office of International Programs. "We have been in contact with the students and their parents and remain in touch with French officials and the US Embassy regarding the incident." The alleged attacker is in police custody, and police say there's no sign that she was motivated by extremist views, the AP reports. (Read more acid attack stories.)
The president of Georgia Tech's Pride Alliance group was shot dead on campus Saturday night after suffering what a lawyer says appears to have been a mental breakdown. Police say Scout Schultz, who identified as non-binary instead of male or female, was shot after they responded to a 911 call about a person armed with a knife and gun outside a dormitory, WSB reports. Schultz doesn't appear to have had a gun, but police say the student was shot after refusing orders to drop a knife. Graphic video of the incident shows the 21-year-old walking toward officers and shouting "Shoot me!" around a minute before being shot by one of four nearby officers, reports the Washington Post.

Video shows that Schultz's hands were down when the student approached officers, and photos from the scene show a utility tool that apparently included a blade, though it wasn't extended. A lawyer for Schultz's family accuses officers of overreacting. It appears Schultz "was having a mental breakdown and didn't know what to do," the lawyer says. "The area was secured. There was no one around at risk." Schultz's mother tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that her eldest child, who was born Scott, suffered from depression and attempted suicide two years ago. "Why didn't they use some nonlethal force, like pepper spray or Tasers?" she wonders. (Read more Georgia Tech stories.)
Police in Louisiana suspect that a man taken into custody Saturday is the attacker who killed two black men in apparently random, possibly racially motivated murders. Police say Kenneth Gleason, 23, has been charged only with drug offenses for now because they don't have enough evidence for a murder charge, but he remains a person of interest in the investigation, the Advocate reports. On Tuesday last week, 59-year-old homeless man Bruce Cofield was shot dead in Baton Rouge by a gunman who fired from his car, then exited his vehicle to walk up to him and shoot him several more times, police say. In an almost identical killing Thursday, 49-year-old Donald Smart was shot dead while walking to work.

The killings took place about 5 miles apart, and police say they haven't uncovered any connection between the victims. After police searched the home where Gleason lived with his parents and found marijuana and human growth hormone he didn't have prescriptions for, he was charged with drug offenses unrelated to the murders. Investigators say Gleason's car fit the description of the vehicle police are seeking and that there's other circumstantial evidence they're not disclosing at this point. One of Gleason's cousins tells the AP that there is "no way" Gleason is the killer. He says his cousin has black friendsand doesn't like guns. (Read more Louisiana stories.)
After nearly a half-century tracking trends in rock and culture, Rolling Stone is up for sale. Trailblazing editor Jann Wenner, 71, tells the New York Times he is making way for new blood by hawking his 51% controlling stake in the magazine. "I love my job, says Wenner, but selling is "just the smart thing to do." Wenner Media confirms the sale to NBC News, saying it was investigating "strategic options ... to best position the brand for future growth." Wenner sold 49% of his stake in Rolling Stone in 2013, and more recently two other magazines run by Wenner Media. But those moves weren't enough to turn the financial tide after decades of plummeting ad revenue. "Theres a level of ambition that we cant achieve alone," his son and company president, Gus Wenner, tells the Times. "So we are being proactive ... Publishing is a completely different industry than what it was."

Gus Wenner, who crafted the sale, and his father say they'd like to stay on, though they recognize the new buyer might wish otherwise. But Jann Wenner concedes that "it's time for young people" to have a crack at running the glossy known for its edgy piecesbut badly bruised by a $3 million libel verdict over the botched University of Virginia gang rape story. The sale process is just beginning. One candidate is American Media, which recently bought Wenner Media's other titles, Us Weekly and Men's Journal. Music critic Anthony DeCurtis worries over the magazine's future. "That sense of the magazine editors hands on the magazine," he tells the Times, "thats whats going to get lost here." (Vanity Fair announced its own "changing of the guard.")
The New York Times has a front-page story Monday detailing the friction among attorneys on President Trump's legal team over how fully to cooperate with Robert Mueller's Russia investigation. Also interesting, however, is how the newspaper got the scoop: It seems that reporter Kenneth Vogel went to lunch at a steakhouse in DC and happened to sit near Trump attorneys Ty Cobb and John Dowd. (Vogel even tweeted a photo of the two men.) During lunch, Cobb and Dowd talked casually, and loudly, about the investigation and in particular about their frustration with White House counsel Donald McGahn. (Cobb is a high-powered outside attorney brought in to manage the White House response to the Mueller investigation.) The steakhouse is close to the White House and also happens to be next door to the Times' Washington bureau, notes the Washington Post.

The short version is that Cobb wants to quickly turn over all documents even remotely connected to the Russia investigation to Mueller, in order to get the matter resolved, while McGhan is pushing for a more cautious approach. "The White House counsels office is being very conservative with this stuff," Cobb told Dowd at the lunch. "Our view is were not hiding anything." He also referred to a unnamed colleague he viewed as a "McGhan spy" and to somebody he blamed for leaks to the media who had "tried to push Jared out." More cryptically, he said McGhan "had a couple documents locked in a safe" that Cobb apparently wanted. The Times story adds that Cobb got chewed out by McGhan and Trump chief of staff John Kelly when the newspaper called to ask about Cobb's loud lunch comments. (Read more New York Times stories.)
Cui added that Beijing will not recognize North Korea as a nuclear power. "It could only make things much worse," he said, if South Korea, Japan and Taiwan also arm themselves with nukes.

Cui Tiankai told reporters at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, "We are certainly opposed to the existence of nuclear weapons anywhere on the Korean Peninsula... anywhere."

China's ambassador to the U.S. on Friday slammed resurgent calls for Washington's East Asian allies to arm themselves with nuclear weapons.

Cui said he understands South Korea's concerns due to its proximity to North Korea, adding that China hopes to help ease these concerns. But he stressed that South Korea's defense against North Korea's threats must "not damage the safety interest of China."

China has vehemently protested against the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense battery from the U.S. in South Korea and implemented a sweeping unofficial boycott. Beijing fears that the THAAD's powerful radar could be used to spy on its military activities.

The ambassador said Tokyo harbors intentions to use the North Korean threat as an excuse to re-arm. He warned that the international community must be wary of Japan's "political motives."

He said Taiwan cannot have nuclear weapons because Beijing views the island nation as a renegade province.

Responding to U.S. calls to do more to pressure North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons, Cui said China will implement all the UN Security Council sanctions against the North, "no more and no less."

China opposed the complete oil embargo the U.S. wanted.
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke is recommending that six of 27 national monuments under review by the Trump administration be reduced in size, with changes to several others proposed, per the AP. A leaked memo from Zinke to President Trump recommends that two Utah monumentsBears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalantebe reduced, along with Nevada's Gold Butte and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou. Two marine monuments in the Pacific Ocean also would be reduced under Zinke's memo, which has not been officially released. (Details have previously leaked.) Trump ordered the review earlier this year after complaining about improper "land grabs" by former presidents, including Barack Obama.

The monuments under review were designated by four presidents over the last two decades. Several are about the size of the state of Delaware, including Mojave Trails in California, Grand-Staircase Escalante in Utah, and Bears Ears, which is on sacred tribal land. Among other things, Zinke recommends opening hundreds of thousands of square miles of currently protected zones in the Atlantic and Pacific to commercial fishing, reports the Wall Street Journal, which also obtained a copy of the memo. The changes also could open up areas around monuments on land to coal and oil exploration. For instance, the memo says the Grand Staircase-Escalante currently has "an estimated several billion tons of oil and large oil deposits." The Journal expects environmental groups to fight any changes. (Read more Ryan Zinke stories.)
More bad news for Lady Gaga, and her fans: After pulling out of the Rock in Rio music festival due to a hospitalization, Gaga has now announced she's delaying the European leg of her Joanne World Tour. The six-week leg, planned for Sept. 21 to Oct. 28, will be delayed until next year, Billboard reports. "Lady Gaga is suffering from severe physical pain that has impacted her ability to perform," tour promoter Live Nation says in a statement. "She remains under the care of expert medical professionals who recommended the postponement." The statement says Gaga will instead spend the next seven weeks attempting to heal; the tour is scheduled to resume in November in North America as planned. Gaga has spoken in the past, including last week, about her struggles with constant pain from fibromyalgia.

"I have always been honest about my physical and mental health struggles. Searching for years to get to the bottom of them," Gaga writes on Instagram. "It is complicated and difficult to explain, and we are trying to figure it out. As I get stronger and when I feel ready, I will tell my story in more depth, and plan to take this on strongly so I can not only raise awareness, but expand research for others who suffer as I do, so I can help make a difference. I use the word 'suffer' not for pity, or attention, and have been disappointed to see people online suggest that I'm being dramatic, making this up, or playing the victim to get out of touring. If you knew me, you would know this couldn't be further from the truth. I'm a fighter. I use the word suffer not only because trauma and chronic pain have changed my life, but because they are keeping me from living a normal life." (Read more Lady Gaga stories.)
A former Soviet officer by the name of Stanislav Petrov has died, and the key point surfacing in obituaries about him is a pretty remarkable one: His poise under pressure may have saved the world from a nuclear war. As USA Today and the New York Times report, Petrov was the officer in charge at a command center near Moscow on Sept. 26, 1983, when the unthinkable happened: Alarms went off as the facility's computers warned that the US had launched five ICBMs toward the Soviet Union. All eyes turned to Lt. Col. Petrov as he assessed the situation. If he called his superiors to report an imminent attack, a counter-strike would be likely in those tense days of the Cold War. "All I had to do was to reach for the phone, to raise the direct line to our top commandersbut I couldn't move," he told the BBC in 2013. "I felt like I was sitting on a hot frying pan."

Petrov then went with his instinct: He called it a false alarm, though he would say later that he figured it was a 50-50 chance. "I had a funny feeling in my gut," he once told the Washington Post. In those crucial minutes, things hadn't added up: For instance, why would the US launch an attack with only five missiles? Petrov turned out to be correct, of course. A satellite misinterpreted the reflection of the sun on clouds for oncoming missiles, per the Times. Incredibly, Petrov got into hot water with bosses who found his paperwork about the incident lacking, but he has since received accolades. He was awarded the Dresden Peace Prize in 2013, and the following year, a documentary-drama called The Man Who Saved the World, with Kevin Costner, told his story. Petrov died in May at age 77 near Moscow, though news of this death is just surfacing now. (Read more nuclear war stories.)
Barack Obama took flak earlier this year when it emerged that he would collect a handsome $400,000 fee for speaking at an event for investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald. It appears that the criticism isn't fazing him much. Bloomberg reports on two more Wall Street speeches for the former president: He got another $400,000 last month for speaking to clients of Northern Trust Corp., and last week he spoke for private equity firm Carlyle Group, presumably for a paycheck in the same ballpark. An Obama spokesman brushes off complaints that Obama should turn down such paydays.

"His paid speeches in part have allowed President Obama to contribute $2 million to Chicago programs offering job training and employment opportunities to low-income youth," says Kevin Lewis. But Bloomberg also collects a quote from Jeff Hauser of the Revolving Door Project, who says that Obama should forego the lucrative gigs if he intends to keep having a say in Democratic politics. Hillary Clinton similarly made good money with Wall Street speeches after her stint as secretary of state, and the bad "optics" contributed to her loss in 2016, she writes in her new memoir, per Newsweek. Obama, of course, doesn't have to worry about running again. (Read more Barack Obama stories.)
A common chant could be heard on the streets of St. Louis Sunday night as protesters demonstrated over a police shooting. "Whose streets? Our streets" went the refrain, a common one used by Black Lives Matter protesters. This time, however, it was police officers who were doing the chanting, reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Reporters heard the chant after officers cleared the streets late Sunday, making more than 80 arrests when the demonstration took a violent turn. The AP also reported hearing the officers' chant. It's not clear whether police superiors will approve of the move, but Lawrence O'Toole, the interim chief of the St. Louis Police Department, struck a defiant tone at a news conference about 1am local time Monday.

"I'm proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight," O'Toole said after the mass arrests. It was the third straight night protesters had taken to the streets to express their anger over the acquittal of a white officer who killed a black man. On Sunday, things remained largely peaceful until about 8pm, when authorities say a small group of protesters broke off and began smashing windows downtown. Police say several officers were assaulted by rocks and chemicals of some kind. "We're in control," said O'Toole afterward. "This is our city and we're going to protect it." The protests continued Monday morning, with demonstrators marching on downtown streets during rush hour, reports the Washington Post. (Read more St. Louis stories.)
Police say a drunken Pennsylvania man who didn't want to drink alone forced his way into a woman's home and sat down with two 12-packs of beer, the AP reports. Sean Haller of Stewartstown faces charges including criminal trespassing and remained in the York County jail on Monday. The Southern Regional Police Department says a woman called them on Sept. 12 to report Haller had entered her home and refused to leave. Police say the 39-year-old Haller had done the same thing in another woman's home earlier that day. Police found Haller in the second woman's home and say he refused to leave, even though there were children inside. They say officers had to go inside and get him. He faces a preliminary hearing Nov. 1. (Read more weird crimes stories.)
President Trump's big speech to the full United Nations assembly is on Tuesday, but he also spoke Monday at the opening session of the annual General Assembly meetings in New York, his UN debut. He called out the UN for "mismanagement" and other problems causing it to fail to reach its "full potential" lately, and said member states should look at ways to change "business as usual" and "ways of the past which were not working." Trump, who was also critical of the UN during the presidential campaign, promised to partner with the UN in its work, the Washington Post reports. While talking to reporters at the start of the four-day conference, he said he wants to help "make the United Nations great. Not again. Make the United Nations great. Such tremendous potential, and I think we'll be able to do this."

He also plugged the residential skyscraper Trump World Tower, one of his own development projects completed in 2001 that sits across from UN headquarters. "I actually saw great potential right across the street, to be honest with you, and it was only for the reason that the United Nations was here that that turned out to be such a successful project," he said, comparing that "potential" to the potential the UN has if it pledges itself to reform, per Politico. The comment made headlines, with USA Today going with simply, "Well then" to lead off its article on the subject. There was also much reaction on Twitter, like this: "Seeing Trump plug his Trump World Tower at the UN General Assembly was like watching an ad before a YouTube video of a dumpster fire." Click for what to expect from the rest of his time with the UN. (Read more President Trump stories.)
"Why did you have to shoot?" Per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, that's the big question Bill Schultz had Monday at a presser, addressing campus cops at Georgia Tech after his oldest child, 21-year-old Scout Schultz, was shot dead Saturday. Scout, who headed the school's Pride Alliance, was killed after four campus cops responded to a 911 call about someone armed with a weapon. Investigators say Schultz was nearing the cops and didn't comply when told to put down his knife, the AP reports. Per CBS News, a video shows a male officer fired after Schultz said, "Shoot me" and the officer replied, "No, drop the knife," only for Schultz to continue toward the police. Chris Stewart, the Schultzes' attorney, says Scout was holding a utility tool but the blade wasn't out. "They overreacted," Stewart tells the Journal-Constitution, adding Schultz seemed to be having a mental breakdown.

Schultz's parents agree, with Lynne Schultz telling the paper she didn't understand why nonlethal force, such as pepper spray or stun guns, wasn't used. Stewart, who says the Schultzes plan on filing a civil suit, said Monday he'd confirmed that campus police don't carry those less-lethal alternatives, which he called "insane," per CBS. Bill Schultz said Scout had a history of depressionthe engineering student had attempted suicide two years agobut had seemed OK recently and was doing well at Georgia Tech, with a 3.9 GPA and an early graduation date set for December. Lynne Schultz explains to the Journal-Constitution that Scout identified as nonbinary (neither male nor female) and was classified as intersex, having biological or physiological characteristics that are neither fully male nor female. "Why did you have to shoot?" Bill Schultz asked at the presser. "That's the only question that matters right now." (Read more Georgia Tech stories.)
Hillary Clinton's latest interview to plug her memoir might be the most provocative yet. In response to a question, Clinton tells Terry Gross of NPR that she would not rule out challenging the legitimacy of the 2016 election because of Russian interference. However, Clinton adds that she doesn't see any legal avenue to do so. It's worth reading the full transcript for context, but Gross asks Clinton the question three separate times to make sure everything is clear.

Gross: "I want to get back to the question, would you completely rule out questioning the legitimacy of this election if we learn that the Russian interference in the election is even deeper than we know now?"

"I want to get back to the question, would you completely rule out questioning the legitimacy of this election if we learn that the Russian interference in the election is even deeper than we know now?" Clinton: "No. I would not. I would say "

"No. I would not. I would say " Gross: " You're not going to rule it out."

You're not going to rule it out." Clinton: "No, I wouldn't rule it out."

But Clinton also says she doesn't think there is "any legal constitutional way to do that." At another point, in a comment sure to rankle President Trump even further, Clinton suggests that she would not have accepted the election results had she been in Trump's shoes. "If I had lost the popular vote but won the electoral college and in my first day as president the intelligence community came to me and said, 'The Russians influenced the election,' I would've never stood for it," she says, adding that she would have immediately set up an independent panel to investigate. (Listen to the interview or read it in full here. In it, Clinton also asserts that Trump "poses a clear and present threat to our democracy.")
Sorry!

This content is not available in your region
State Council members at the Sept 13 executive meeting heard a report on the fourth nationwide State Council inspection, the third-party assessment of implementation of key policy measures on promoting mass entrepreneurship and innovation, and boosting private investment.

State Council inspection is the governments important measure in improving supervision and enhancing policy effectiveness, while third-party assessment plays a positive role in improving public policy, acting as a supplement to the inspection work.

The inspection is to examine every region and departments implementation of key policy measures and important tasks made by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council. Guided by the appeals of market players, third-party assessment introduced a neutral party to evaluate whether market players know these policies and how they benefit from them.

To summarize, the State Council inspection centered on the implementation of policies, while third-party assessment focused on the sense of gain from market players. The latter can be seen as a yardstick to test the implementation of policies.

Premier Li Keqiang, when delivering the Government Work Report in 2015, proposed that China build a service-oriented government. The inspection and third-party assessment, as an innovative move by the government, is done as part of building such a government.
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Snow showers. High 27F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Low 4F. Winds light and variable.
New Delhi:

Ryan International School on Monday reopened for the first time since the brutal murder of 7-year-old Pradyuman Thakur inside its premises.

On September 8, second grader Pradyuman Thakur was found dead with his throat slit inside a toilet of the school.

The parents who came to drop their children were scared and demanded the school to ensure that their kids are safe inside the premises.

aFrom now weall have fear in our minds till our kids would reach home. Ryan International School should look after their safety,a one of the parents who came to drop their children told news agency ANI.

From now we'll have fear in our minds till our kids would reach home. #RyanInternationalSchool should look after safety: Parent of a student pic.twitter.com/B2lNTSnzUG a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

aSchools should hire educated people as support staff and their background check should also be done thoroughly,a said another parent.

Background check of staff should be done thoroughly,educated ppl should be recruited in schools-Parent of a student #RyanInternationalSchool pic.twitter.com/7YbyLQu7ok a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Meanwhile, Pradyuman's father opposed the reopening of school and said without addressing the security lapses, opening the school would pose threat to the safety of other children. He also feared evidence temperingA if the school reopens as CBI inquiry has not yet started.

Suspect Ashok Kumar, a 42-year-old conductor of one of the school buses was arrested by the Gurugram police after he admitted killing Pradyuman.

However, family members of accused Ashok alleged conspiracy behind his arrest and said the police forced him to admit the crime in order to save the culprits behind the murder.

A series of protests were organised outside the Ryan International School by the angry parents including Pradyumanas family, they were demanding a CBI inquiry.

Under pressure after the protests and media coverage, Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar has recommended the CBI inquiry.
Kohima:

Nagaland Governor P B Acharya on Monday expressed hope that solution to the vexed Naga political problem would be solved within the next one or two months and urged every Naga underground group and civil societies to come together to accept it.

Interacting with media persons at Raj Bhavan on Monday, the governor said, Naga peace process is in news everywhere and I am confident with all information from my sources that it (peace process) has come to a conclusion.

General elections are due within few months in the state and I hope solution to Naga political problem will come within next one-two months, Acharya said.

At this juncture, all the Naga civil societies and political parties should be prepared to accept the solution and make it a reality, he said.

Younger people are tired and want solution to the decades old peace process, he said.

Asked on his role to overcome the leadership crisis within the ruling Naga Peoples Front (NPF), the governor said it is the internal matter of the party.

ALSO READ: Naga village chiefs meet PM Modi, support peace process

They should overcome the trust deficit, which is also hampering the peace process and therefore they should come together and strengthen the government, he said.

On the allegation from some quarters that the governor had unconstitutionally removed then Chief Minister Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu on July 19, Acharya said whoever has the majority should head the government.

Meanwhile, the Governor urged the 60 Naga legislators and two MPs to adopt at least one village every year in their own constituency under Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana and work for the uplift of that village.

He said that the Centre provides special fund to the legislators for the project.

Acharya also suggested that along side the World War-II cemetery in Kohima there should be a memorial of Subhash Chandra Bose and INA soldiers who died for India.

He said he has written to the Centre about this.

ALSO READ | Nagaland: NPF organises beef fest at Central office
New Delhi:

BJP president Amit Shah on Monday appeared before a special SIT court hearing the 2002 Naroda Gram riot case.



Shah was summoned by special SIT judge PB Desai on last Tuesday as a defence witness for former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani, who is one of the prime accused.



Kodnani, in her application to prove her innocence, said that on the day of incident she had visited Sola civil hospital after attending the state Legislative Assembly.



She claimed in the application that Shah, who was an MLA at that time, was also present at the Sola civil hospital, where bodies of karsevaks killed in the Sabarmati train burning incident were brought from Godhra.



Amit Shah verified her account, "Maya Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam, she was inside the state assembly at 8.30 am," Shah told the court.



Gujarat: Amit Shah leaves after appearing before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case. pic.twitter.com/CGDNhH7Szo  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Amit Shah gave the following testimony in the court:



#I left my home on 28th at around 7:15 for state assembly. The timing for the session was 8:30. I was traveling by my car. Members were present inside the assembly house along with the speaker. A tribute was paid to victims of Godhra train incident.



#Maya Kodnani was also present in the Assembly



#Phone was buzzing whole day, I visited Sola Civil Hospital, which was in my jurisdiction



#I reached there at around 9:30-9:45 AM, several dead bodies were brought there



#I met Maya Kodnani in hospital



#When I was leaving the hospital, people crowded me. Police escorted me and Maya Behen till our cars at around 11-11:15 AM

Gujarat: BJP President Amit Shah appears before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case. pic.twitter.com/iWkgMQXndl  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Read | Gulbarg Society Massacre case: Timeline of Zakia Jafri's fight for justice

Two weeks back, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months.



A bench headed by then Chief Justice JS Khehar was informed that the trial was in progress and evidence of the defence witnesses was being recorded by a special court.



The top court had asked the lower court to complete the recording of evidence of the remaining defence witnesses in two months.



The massacre in Naroda Gram in Ahmedabad is one of the nine major 2002 communal riots cases which were investigated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).



Eleven persons belonging to the minority community were killed in Naroda Gam in the 2002 riots, during a bandh called to protest the Godhra train burning incident.



A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.



Kodnani, who was then a minister in the Narendra Modi-led state government, has already been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the case of riot at Naroda Patiya where 97 people were massacred.

Read | Bilkis Bano rape case: SC refuses to stay conviction of IPS officer R S Bhagora

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

In a major setback for TTVA Dhinakaran, the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker on Monday disqualified 18 rebel AIADMK MLAs supporting sacked party general secretary V K Sasikala.

Tamil Nadu Speaker P Dhanapal passed the order in this regard. Dhinakaran had already stated that they will move court if the Speaker disqualifies his loyalist MLAs.

On Sunday, Dhinakaran had demanded Tamil Nadu Chief Minister EA Palaniswamias resignation, saying that ahe is a chief minister because of Sasikala.a The Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami alleged that Dhinakaran wants to topple his government by colluding with the opposition DMK.A

18 MLAs backing TTV Dhinakaran disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal. pic.twitter.com/SAoDA2qOg5 a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Of late, Sasikala was expelled in the general council meeting of which Dhinakaran faction did not approve and approached the Election Commission.

18 MLAs backing TTV Dhinakaran disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal. pic.twitter.com/pJedJ3aOWK a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

After making PAN and mobile numbers, now Aadhaar will be needed for registering businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGO). The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has proposed amendments to the Income Tax Act and Prevention of Money Laundering Act for the same.

In a bid to trace directors and promoters easily and make it difficult to form shell companies, Aaadhar of top management personnel will be needed at the time of registration of companies and partnership entities.

According to the reports, making Aadhar mandatory will bring partnerships and trusts under the same regulations, which is not the case currently.

Recently, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad indicated that Aadhaar could be made mandatory for driving license in an order to prevent the issuance of multiple licenses.

The ultimate aim of the government is to curb the menace of the black money and to achieve that goal government is looking for a mechanism to get entities with cumulative transactions of over Rs 2 lakh annually under a regulatory regime.

These recent changes or amendments will help check the possibility of any misuse of the system, the report further added.

Till now, the PAN was treated as the unique identification number for all the businesses.

Recently, the government banned nearly 2 lakh defunct companies and also identified 106, 578 directors of shell companies to be disqualified.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Six major lapses including non-verification of the accused were reported in a report submitted by sub-divisional magistrate investigating the rape of a five-year-old girl in Tagore Public School to Delhi state government on Monday.

The sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) in the report has mentioned that non-coverage of the school building under CCTV Cameras has reduced the deterrence effect.

The report also mentions that the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) did not take any action against the Tagore Public School for conducting classes in unrecognized areas of school building.

The SDM in the report has stated that the 40-year-old peon arrested in charges of arresting the minor worked for the school for the last 2.5years without undergoing any kind of verification and background check by the school administrative.

The rape of the five-year-old girl had come to surface a day after class two student of Ryan International School was brutally murdered within the campus by a school staff.

Also read: 5-year-old raped inside classroom by peon, Delhi CM Kejriwal orders magisterial inquiry



The rape of the minor in Tagore Public School had came to light after the victim complained pain and bleeding in ther private parts to her mother. She was rushed to a hospital for medical attention where doctors examining the girl informed the parents that the minor was sexually assaulted.The victim detailed her ordeal to her mother when asked.

Also read| Delhi shame: 5-year-old girl allegedly raped by peon in school, accused arrested

As the incident was reported in media, the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal ordered a magisterial probe headed by SDM Vivek Vihar, while the police arrested the 40-year-old peon.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

People should not to forward messages especially on WhatsApp without verification as anti-nationalists elements are trying to stir agitation in the society by circulating fake messages said Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh after inaugrating the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) intelligence unit in Delhi.

The union minister added that fake news and wrong informations are widely being circulated on social media platforms by anti-nationalists and mischief mongers.

Do not believe on messages and forward it to anyone without verification as anti-national elements have been trying to create agitation in the society by circulating such messages, said Singh.

He added that everyone has to be careful before circulating such messages.

Also read: WhatsApp gets picture-in-picture video calling and text status updates; Know all about these features



During the opening ceremony the Union Home Minister even lauded the SSB jawans for guarding the 1751 kilometer-long Indo-Nepal and 699 kilometers-long Indo-Bhutan border.

Also read: Rajnath Singh says talks with Pakistan meaningless unless there is check on terrorism



He said, It is tough to guard such long open borders, which allow visa-free movement of people.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

The Haryana Police on Monday issued a list of 43 most wanted in connection with Panchkula violence that erupted after a local court pronounced jail term for Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Singh in two rape cases. The police listed Honeypreet Insan and Dera spokesperson Aditya Insan among the wanted criminals.

A lookout notice was already issued against Honeypreet. The police had on September 1 issued a lookout notice for Honeypreet and Aditya, fearing that they could flee the country.

The Haryana police had earlier sent a team also to Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh bordering Nepal in search of Honeypreet, a close confidante of the self-styled godman who is serving a 20-year-old jail term for raping two disciples.

Also Read | Honeypreet Kaur: Bihar, Haryana and UP police launch massive manhunt

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Rabiya Khan, mother of deceased Bollywood actress Jiah Khan, has penned down an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealing for justice.A

Rabiya has stated in her letter that most of the forensic evidence which was found in Jiah's case points towards certain homicide and not suicide.

The grieving mother turned to PM's radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' to share her grief. She mentioned how she has been continuously fighting to get justice for her daughter.

Jiah Khan who was part of movies like Ghajini and Houseful committed suicide on June 3, 2013.A She was in a relationship with Sooraj Pancholi, who is Aditya Pancholi's son. Entire Bollywood fraternity was shocked at her death.A

Rabiya had alleged that Sooraj was responsible for her daughter's death and it was not a case of suicide.A

Police arrested Sooraj for abetting her suicide but he was released after the High Court granted him bail.A

The High Court transferred the case to CBI in July 2014 after Rabia alleged that Police was not probing the case properly.A

The state government had appointed Dinesh Tiwari as the special public prosecutor for the case. CBI challenged the same in the High Court and said that it would appoint its own counsel.A

Rabiya also mentioned Kangana Ranaut in her letter and gave her props for speaking about an actor who allegedly assaulted and abused her when she was in a relationship with him.A

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Mumbai:

Mumbai Police on Monday arrested Indias most wanted man Dawood Ibrahims brother Iqbal Kaskar in connection with an extortion case. .

A police official not willing to be quoted said Kaskar was wanted for an extortion case recently lodged against him.

The officer told News Nation that Thane crime branch had received a complaint from a renowned businessman regarding an extortion threat by Dawood Ibrahims brother Iqbal Kaskar and his gang.

According to the officer, the businessman earlier had given four flats to Kaskar as extortion. He lodged a complaint with the Thane crime branch after Kaskar demanded a few more flats as extortion.

He added that encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma, who now heads the anti-extortion cell was given the case.

"Kaskar was called for questioning to Thane crime branch and later arrested," said the police official.

According to police sources, Mumbai Police earlier in 2015 had arrested Kaskar in connection with an extortion case registered by one real estate agent with JJ Marg police station. The realty agent had accused Kaskar and his gang member of assaulting him.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar taking jibe on the Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi on his remark on dynasties are a fact in India on Monday during a public interaction said, Parivarwad (family hegemony) is acceptable in Indian politics is not true,

Kumar further added, Rahul Gandhis comment in US last week that dynasties are commonplace in India is unacceptable to the country.

The Bihar chief also said, To say that a person born into a political family has merit to rule is wrong. If comparison is made, non-dynasts in high positions have performed better than the ones compared to dynasts.

Kumar during the public hearing further said that the Congress has generated dynastic politics in India, which is now slowing spreading to other parties.

Also read| JD (U) crisis: Sharad faction appoints acting prez to decide action against Nitish



I am personally against dynastic politics, said the Bihar chief minister.

Also read: Rahul Gandhi hints at desire to become Prime Minister in 2019, says he is ready to take charge

Rahul Gandhi early this month while speaking at University of California, Berkeley had said, Most parties in India have , have that problem. Mr Akhilesh Yadav is a dynast. Mr Stalin (son of M Karunanidhi in DMK) is a dynast... Even Abhishek Bachchhan is a dynast. So, that's how India runs. So, don't get after me because that's how India is run".

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

At least two petrol bombs were thrown at the residence of opposition United Democratic Party legislator Paul Lyngdoh at Shillong on Monday.

East Khasi Hills district Superintendent of Police (SP) Davis N Marak confirmed the incident.

We are investigating the case and very soon the criminals will be nabbed, added the SP.

UDP leader Paul Lyngdoh talking to the media said, Petrol bombs were hurled at my residence around 5am in the morning.

He added that the miscreants threw petrol bombs in front of house.

The bombs fell at the guards room located near the gate. The guard acting quickly doused the fire, added Lyngdoh.

Lyngdoh, working president of UDP, has lodged a complaint with the Lumdiengjri police station against his opponent Mahendro Rapsang from the Congress party.

The act has been carried out by the goons of (Rapsang), he told the media.

He added recently UDP youth leader P Sharma's residence was also attacked in a similar manner.

said the police are acting on the complaint and already got some clue from a Facebook post.

(With PTI inputs)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

In a shocking incident, an electronic showroom owner Vasudeb Israni was shot dead in Jodhpurs posh Sardarpura C road on Sunday night. He had earlier survived another attack in the month of June when unknown assailants had shot at him. He had been getting repeated threats and demands of ransom were made.

As a result, police had even provided him a guard. The Sardarpura police station is located very close to his showroom. However, it wasnt enough to put fear in the minds of the assailants.

This brutal incident has put into question the deteriorating law and order situation in the region. The assailants were successful despite police providing security to the victim.

The whole city will rise to an atmosphere of fear on Monday. How will the police commissioner answer them? It seems that the rich businessmen of the city need to keep ransom amount ready for criminal gangs.

Now even small criminals can also threaten and force them to provide lakhs of rupees as ransom.The ruling party will face a lot of trouble in the upcoming times. Further, it seems that the present police commissioner will have to bid goodbye to the city.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

With mounting violence against Rohingyas in Myanmar, Indian intelligence agencies suspect that refugees are expected to employ all means possible to sneak into the country, seeking shelter.



The security along India-Myanmar border has been heightened, which may force those fleeing violence to take high-risk sea route with help of professional traffickers, a report said.



Currently, India is home to 40,000 Rohingyas living at camps and shanties in Assam, West Bengal, Jammu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.

Read | Supreme Court to hear plea challenging deportation of Rohingya illegal immigrants today



"The Rohingyas are desperate to sneak into Indian areas such as Bengal. And organised traffickers are likely to use sea routes from Myanmar and Bangladesh to push them into India," senior intelligence officials told Mail Today. "All security agencies concerned have to remain guarded against any such attempt."



The officials said the traffickers involved with the Rohingiyas may use their experience in the Mediterranean where they used large boats and high-speed rafts to send refugees fleeing Syria into Europe in large numbers.



The agencies are also keeping an eye on the movement from the southern part of Myanmar from where the Rohingiyas may try to enter the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and occupy the various uninhabited islands there.

Read | Rohingya Muslims: 'Want to request the govt not to send us back'



The threat of IS links



The report quoting intelligence agents said that the routes likely to be adopted by Rohingya refugees have been known to be used by a chunk of Islamic State supporters also.

Read | Asaduddin Owaisi slams PM Modi, says why cannot he accept Rohingya refugees as his brothers

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Shiv Sena on Monday threatened to pull out from the Maharashtra government, saying that the party is not ready to share the blame for unprecedented price rise and the problem of farmers as they are not responsible for it.

After party meeting, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said soon they will decide whether to continue in government or withdraw the support.

aWhether we will stay in Govt or withdraw, this will be decided soon,a Sanjay Raut said.

The party has also slammed union minister Alphons Kannanthanam for his remarks on fuel price hike in its mouthpiece, Saamana.

Unprecedented price rise,farmer issues unresolved.We are not responsible& don't want to share the blame: Sanjay Raut,Shiv Sena pic.twitter.com/ol1oq3DVvq a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

The party said those who have no merit and connect with the people are ruling the nation.

Whether we will stay in Govt or withdraw, this will be decided soon: Sanjay Raut,Shiv Sena after party meeting pic.twitter.com/nbZD9h5Nvu a ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Hitting out at the Centre over the fuel price hike, Sena, which is a constituent of the ruling NDA at the centre and in Maharashtra, claimed that high fuel prices was the main reason for suicide by farmers in the country.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

In yet another case of sexual abuse in schools, a class 12 girl was allegedly gang-raped by the director and a teacher of Janta Bal Niketan School in Rajasthans Ajitgarh area of Sikar district.

According to the reports, school director Jagdish and teacher Jagat Singh were sexually abusing the victim for the last few months.

After the repeated incidents of gang rape, the girl got pregnant and the accused took her to a private hospital in nearby town Shahpura.

Also Read | Delhi shame: 5-year-old girl allegedly raped by peon in school, accused arrested

The incident came to light when the girl started bleeding heavily after reaching home. Her parents took her to a hospital in Ajitgarh where doctors told them about the alleged rape and abortion of the victim.

The victim has been referred to Jaipur where her condition is still critical.

The police have registered a case against both accused director and teacher of the school. Both accused are absconding ever since the incident was reported and a team of police is searching for them.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The Supreme Court will hear on Monday a plea challenging central governments decision to deport illegal Rohingya Muslim immigrants to Myanmar. The plea has been filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir. Both of them are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR).

Their plea claims that deportation of the refugees would be in contradiction with the principle of Non-Refoulement, recognised as a principle of Customary International law. However, on September 8, former RSS ideologue and Rashtriya Swabhiman Andolan leader K N Govindacharaya had filed a plea seeking identification and deportation of Rohingya Muslim refugees.

In his plea, Govindacharya has claimed that the Rohingyas are a threat to Indias national security. Rohingyas have been allegedly attacked by the Myanmar army which in turn has led to an exodus of Rohingyas in that country to India and Bangladesh.

Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, have settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

Earlier, India has announced that it plans to deport an estimated 40,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees living illegally in the country. The government said that even those registered with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees would be deported.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The Marshal of Indian Air Force Arjan Singh, who passed away on Saturday, was accorded a state funeral in New Delhis Brar Square on Monday. The national flag flew at half-mast at all government buildings in his honour.



The IAF Marshal passed away after suffering a cardiac attack at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday. He was 98.



As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, a state funeral will be accorded and national flag will fly half-mast on the day of the funeral (September 18) in Delhi at all buildings where it is flown regularly, a Home Ministry spokesperson said on Sunday.



The Defence Ministry on Sunday said Singhs mortal remains will be taken to the funeral site from his residence in a gun carriage procession on Monday.



Read | Marshal of IAF Arjan Singh passes away: Know all about exceptional pilot and distinguished war hero

Here are the live updates:



Fly past held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/fIYWf15TyM  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017





Gun salute & fly past held at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/28xxEpOj4I  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017





Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh continues at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/VwyRTdNHQb  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017



Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh underway at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/7zmAzvvP9u  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Manmohan Singh, LK Advani, Defence Min Nirmala Sitharaman & three service chiefs at last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh pic.twitter.com/drHqelvomW  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

#9:20 AM: Former PM Manmohan Singh lays wreath & pays tributes to Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh, at his last rites ceremony.



#9:18 AM:Delhi: IAF Chief BS Dhanoa & Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba pay tributes at Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh's last rites ceremony.



Delhi: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays wreath & pays tributes to Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh, at his last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/BaF9lFotTJ  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

#WATCH Live via ANI FB: Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. https://t.co/3mo97GEPcV pic.twitter.com/foOM7DSElT  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

#Chiefs of all three defence services and defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman to be present during funeral

#Visuals from Delhi's Brar Square where last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh will be performed. pic.twitter.com/aOTHNk9ZwX  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

#Sukhoi to fly past at 10 AM in missing men formation, in accordance with IAF tradition

#MI 17 V 5 helicopter tirnage to follow with IAF flag



#Body of IAF Marshall to be brought to Brar Square at around 8:45 AM. Ritual ceremonies to begin around 9.30 AM.

#Sukhoi 30 and Mi 17 v5 to fly pass the ceremony

Delhi: Mortal remains of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh being taken to Brar Square for the last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/RPUpQA4wW2  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Delhi: Mortal remains of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh being taken to Brar Square in a gun carriage for the last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/R9vwSMJkpC  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Delhi: Preparations underway for the last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh. Visuals from his residence 7A Kautilya Marg pic.twitter.com/xItnVLs5fq  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Read | State funeral to be accorded to Arjan Singh; national flag to fly half-mast at govt buildings

Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died in New Delhi on Saturday at the age of 98.



He was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the IAF when he was only 44 years old, a task he carried out with elan. He was the chief of the IAF when it found itself at the forefront of the 1965 conflict.



Singh, who had flown more than 60 different types of aircraft, had played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.



Known as a man of few words, he was not only a fearless fighter pilot but had profound knowledge about air power which he applied in a wide spectrum of air operations. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, in 1965.

Read | President Kovind, PM Modi offer condolences on Indian Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh's death; hail his role in 1965 war

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

A West Bengal Police constable was arrested for allegedly raping a class 4 student in a police barrack in West Bengals Cooch Behar district, around 750 kilometers from state capital Kolkata.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Cooch Behar Anoop Jaiswal said, We have arrested the constable. He has been suspended from his services as we learnt about the incident.

According to a complaint lodged by the victims mother, who runs a tea stall in front of barack, the victim went to deliver bread and vegetable curry. The accused overpowered the victim, dragged her to a room and raped her.

The victims mother suspected foul play after she noticed that the minor regularly denied going inside the barrack to deliver orders and remained silent.

Also read|Sikar: Class 12 student gang-raped inside school premises by director and teacher

Also read| Rajasthan: 6-year-old girl tied to table, gang-raped in school campus in Barmer



On repeatedly questioning her, she narrated her ordeal to me. On learning the incident I lodged a complaint with the police at Dinhata Police station on September 16 with the help of school teachers where she studied, the victims mother said.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
London:

An ancient Indian manuscript, dating back to the third century, has revealed the oldest recorded use of 'zero' - pushing back one of the greatest breakthroughs in the history of mathematics back by over 500 years, Oxford scientists say.

Bakhshali manuscript was found in 1881, buried in a field in what was then an Indian village called Bakhshali, now in Pakistan. It has been at the Bodleian Libraries in the UK since 1902.

Researchers at the University of Oxford in the UK used carbondating to trace the origins of zero to the Bakhshali manuscript. They found that the text contained hundreds of zeroes, putting the birth of 'zero' or 'nought' as it is also known, at 500 years earlier than scholars first thought.

The text dates back to the third or fourth century, making it the oldest recorded use of the symbol. Previous studies asserted that the Bakhshali manuscriptprobably dated from between the 8th and the 12th century.

However, new carbon dating reveals that the reason why it was previously so difficult for scholars to pinpoint the Bakhshali manuscript's date is because of the manuscript, which consists of 70 fragile leaves of birch bark, is in factcomposed of material from at least three different periods.

"Determining the date of the Bakhshali manuscript is of vital importance to the history of mathematics and the studyof early South Asian culture," said Richard Ovenden from Bodleian Libraries.

The concept of the symbol as we know and use today, beganas a simple dot, which was widely used as a 'placeholder' to represent orders of magnitude in the ancient Indian numbers system for example 10s, 100s, and 1000s, researchers said.

It features prominently in the Bakhshali manuscript, which is widely acknowledged as the oldest Indian mathematical text, they said. The earliest recorded example of the use of zero waspreviously believed to be a 9th-century inscription of thesymbol on the wall of a temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

Although a number of ancient cultures including theancient Mayans and Babylonians also used the zero placeholders, the dot's use in the Bakhshali manuscript is the one thatultimately evolved into the symbol that we use today, researchers said.

"The creation of zero as a number in its own right, whichevolved from the placeholder dot symbol found in the Bakhshali manuscript, was one of the greatest breakthroughs in the history of mathematics," said Marcus du Sautoy, Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford.

"We now know that it was as early as the 3rd-century that mathematicians in India planted the seed of the idea that would later become so fundamental to the modern world.

The findings show how vibrant mathematics have been in the Indiansub-continent for centuries," du Sautoy added.

For all the Latest Lifestyle News, Others News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

For the first time, Researchers have revealed that the weather on the Venus during the night is very different than day hours. In the research, it is also said that the night side shows unexpected and unseen cloud types, morphologies, and dynamics - some of which appear to be connected to features on the planet's surface.

"This is the first time we've been able to characterise how the atmosphere circulates on the night side of Venus on a global scale," said Javier Peralta of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

"While the atmospheric circulation on the planet's dayside has been extensively explored, there was still much to discover about the night side. We found that the cloud patterns there are different to those on the dayside, and influenced by Venus' topography," said Peralta, lead author of the study published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

Venus' atmosphere is dominated by strong winds that whirl around the planet far faster than Venus itself rotates. This phenomenon, known as 'super-rotation', sees Venusian winds rotating up to 60 times faster than the planet below, pushing and dragging along clouds within the atmosphere as they go.

These clouds travel fastest at the upper cloud level, some 65 to 72 kilometres above the surface.

"We've spent decades studying these super-rotating winds by tracking how the upper clouds move on Venus' dayside-these are clearly visible in images acquired in ultraviolet light," said Peralta.

"However, our models of Venus remain unable to reproduce this super-rotation, which clearly indicates that we might be missing some pieces of this puzzle," he said.

"We focused on the night side because it had been poorly explored; we can see the upper clouds on the planet's night side via their thermal emission, but it's been difficult to observe them properly because the contrast in our infrared images was too low to pick up enough detail," he added.

The team used the Visible and Infrared Thermal Imaging Spectrometer (VIRTIS) on European Space Agency (ESA)'s Venus Express spacecraft to observe the clouds in the infrared.

"VIRTIS enabled us to see these clouds properly for the first time, allowing us to explore what previous teams could not-and we discovered unexpected and surprising results," adds Peralta.

Rather than capturing single images, VIRTIS gathered a 'cube' of hundreds of images of Venus acquired simultaneously at different wavelengths.

Previous missions to Venus:

In 1963, a robotic space probe called the American Mariner 2 was launched on Venus. In 1970, a Soviet Spacecraft Venera 7 landed on the surface of Venus and beamed back data to Earth.

NASA obtained additional data with the project Pioneer Venus in 1978. According to reports, there were several flybys that were carried out between 1980-1990 apart from Russias continued interest in Venus.

In April 2006, European Space Agency put the Venus Express, long-term observation mission, into the orbit around Venus. In December 2015, Japan sent Akatsuki to the planet.

Further details of what researchers found on the night side of Venus can be found in the latest study published in Nature Astronomy.









For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

Finally the much awaited UPI based payment and wallet application, 'Tez', by Google has been launched in India on Monday.A

Tez, a hindi translation for fast will allow the user to pay for every purchase of goods and services in a secure way and the best part is one can do so both online and offline and also make person to person transactions.

Through this fast UPI based payment application of Google one can send money and receive money directly to the bank accounts.A

aSend money to friends, instantly receive payments directly to your bank account and pay the nearby cafA with Tez, Google's new digital payment app for India,a is what the description reads on Googleas Play Store.

Google has developed this payments app by working in tandem with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in accordance with itsUnified Payments Interface (UPI) standard.

LIVE: @FinMinIndia Minister Shri @arunjaitley addressing at the launch of Google Digital Payment App 'Tez':https://t.co/UwFfVnOvKh a MIB India (@MIB_India) September 18, 2017

With Tez one can transfer money to any UPI enabled bank account. For this Google have been working in coordination with multiple banks.A

NPCI's own UPI based app BHIM has similar feature wherein users can send money to others by saving their account numbers and IFSC codes.A

FM @arunjaitley doing the first transaction on Google Digital Payment Aap 'TEZ' in Delhi today. pic.twitter.com/82KErOEFzW a Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) September 18, 2017

Apart from English and Hindi, Tez will be available in Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu.A
New Delhi:

Xiaomi is all set to release a new variant of its Mi Max 2 smartphone in India. The first variant was launched with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB internal memory at a price of Rs 16,999 in July this year. Now, a new variant with 4 GB RAM and 32 GB internal memory will be launched at a price of Rs 14,999 but can be purchased at an introductory price of Rs. 12,999.

The new variant of Xiaomi Mi Max 2 will be available for purchase on Amazon India, Mi.com and Mi Home. It will go on sale starting September 20 at 12 pm.

Xiaomi announced the launch of the new Mi Max 2 on its official Twitter handle saying Presenting Mi Max 2 4GB+32GB at an intro price of a12,999! Sale starts 20/09 exclusively on @amazonIN, Mi.com & Mi Home.

Presenting Mi Max 2 4GB+32GB at an intro price of a12,999! Sale starts 20/09 exclusively on @amazonIN, https://t.co/nVqFSYMyzY & Mi Home pic.twitter.com/6rC5hoNq7H  Mi India (@XiaomiIndia) September 18, 2017

Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi on September 11 launched Mi Max 2 at a live event in Beiing, China.

Features of Mi Max 2: 12 MP rear camera, 5 MP front camera, 5300 mAh battery, PDAF, f/2.2 aperture, dual-LED flash, Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, weight - 211 grams

ALSO READ: First Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 flash sale in China finishes in just 58 seconds
Lahore:

Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeeds Jamat-ud-Dawah will foray into Pakistans political scene by contesting the 2018 general elections, a senior member of the outfit said, a day after its candidate finished third in a crucial by-poll.

Last month, Jamaat-ud-Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, announced that it was launching the Milli Muslim League.

Sheikh Yaqoob, a JuD-backed candidate who was defeated by ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharifs wife Kulsoom Nawaz from a parliamentary seat that fell vacant after he was disqualified by the Supreme Court, said the new front will field candidates in every constituency of the country in next years election.

Yaqoob wanted to contest yesterdays election from Milli Muslim League, launched just before the NA-120 by-poll, but could not do so as the Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to register it as a political party.

Yaqoob was placed in 2012 on a US Treasury sanctions list of those designated as leaders of terrorist organisations, The New York Times reported.

ALSO READ: JuD chief Abdul Rehman Makki warns Pakistan Govt against interfering in Jihad for 'Azad Kashmir'

We have got a very good response in NA-120. It was our first election and people have welcomed us, said Yaqoob, who contested as an independent candidate.

We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies ? India, United States and Israel and at the same time help them in solving their basic livelihood problems, he said.

The JuD formed Milli Muslim League at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore.

Saeed and his four aides -? Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti-terrorism act.

The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014.

The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.

ALSO READ: JuD chief Hafiz Saeed launches political party Milli Muslim League in Pakistan

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj reached United States in the wee hours of Monday morning (IST) to attend United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.



Swaraj will address the UNGA on September 23 and until then she will have a string of bilateral and multilateral meetings.



The external affairs minister has 15-20 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the UNGA, including one with her US counterpart Rex Tillerson, an official said.



Meeting with the US



Swaraj will also attend a multilateral meeting chaired by President Donald Trump on the issue of reforming the world body, external affairs ministry spokesperson Ravish Kumar told reporters in New York.



This will the be first meeting between Swaraj and Tillerson, to be followed soon enough by their second, as part of the 2-by-2 dialogue. India and the United States announced a new 2-by-2 talks format simultaneously involving the foreign and defence ministers of the two countries, replacing the earlier version that involved the foreign and commerce ministers.



The new dialogue is slated for later this month, to be hosted by India.

Welcome Ma'am! EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in New York for 72nd UNGA. Received by Amb @NavtejSarna & PR @AkbaruddinIndia pic.twitter.com/x0j99nnBNf  India in USA (@IndianEmbassyUS) September 17, 2017

A Warm WelcomeYY EAM @SushmaSwaraj received with full honors @lottenypalace upon arrival in New York for 42nd UNGA. Amb @NavtejSarna pic.twitter.com/iZd96ScDuD  India in USA (@IndianEmbassyUS) September 18, 2017



No meeting with Pakistan, China



The external affairs ministry officials in New York told media that ther ehave been no official invitation for a bilateral meeting from Pakistan.



Though the minister has no structured bilateral meetings with counterparts from China and Pakistan, she will see them at meetings of multilateral bodies of which they are members, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.



They are known to say hello to each other and exchange pleasantries at these multilateral forums, an official said on background, but no structured bilateral meetings have been lined up with China or Pakistan.

Read | No bilateral talks with Pakistan during annual UNGA session: MEA Ravish Kumar



India's agenda at UNGA



Swaraj is expected to support US President Trump's call for reforms in UN secretariat, however, India's goal is going to be focused on overall reforms, basically the expansion of UNSC to incode India as a permanent member.



The main element will be a broad-based and all-encompassing reform of the UN, which is essentially the expansion of the Security Council to reflect the changing world situation, India's permanent ambassador to UN Syed Akbaruddin said.



UNSC expansion, which is progressing at snails pace, will be addressed specifically by Swaraj also when she meets her counterparts from the other so-called G4 countries  Germany, Japan and Brazil  that have come together in support of each others claim to membership of the UNs top decision-making body.

Read | Will not sit idle till Masood Azhar brought to justice: Indias envoy to United Nations



Counter-terrorism will be one of five key elements of Indias agenda at the upcoming session of the UN, Akbaruddin said.



The other key elements of the Indian agenda for the session are peacekeeping operations and the questions of sustainable peace. India is a leading contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, tackling climate change and the need to focus on people-centric issues such as migration.



India along with 113 countries has also supported discussion on the issues of Responsibility to Protect and Prevent Massacre". Pakistan and 21 other nations have opposed the discussion.

Read | No change in US position on Paris agreement: White House

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
HARTFORD  Opportunistic Republicans rallied at the Capitol Sunday in an attempt to pressure Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to put away his veto pen when their budget package  the first from the party out of power to win legislative approval in two decades  reaches the Democrats desk.

The two-year $40.7 billion GOP plan emerged from the Senate and House with cross-over support from a group of moderate Democrats, a stunning setback for the party in control of the General Assembly and all six constitutional offices.

When we have Democrats supporting a Republican budget, I think we are going in the right direction, said John Slater, who is the state GOP vice chairman and is from Bridgeport. Its ultra important to get this message out to as many people as possible.

Republicans say that their budget avoids onerous tax increases that have hurt Connecticuts competitiveness and solves a protracted stalemate over how best to close a $3.6 billion deficit. If the state goes without a budget after Oct. 1, they say, cities and towns will suffer the consequences of draconian cuts to their state education funds under an executive order of Malloy.

Their package relies on a controversial $300 million cut to the University of Connecticut over the next two years, as well as the elimination of public subsides for candidates for state office such as governor under the clean-elections program. It also calls for state employees to contribute more to their pensions starting in 2027, when their current labor deal expires.

Malloy has vowed to veto the budget, which could reach his desk this week but hasnt been submitted to the governors office yet by Republicans. On the opposite side of the Capitol, Malloys parking space and those of both parties legislative leaders were empty Sunday.

More Information Budget breakdown GOP two-year $40.7 billion budget package highlights: General Fund increase of 3.5 percent in first year; 0.6 percent in second year Saves cities and towns $280 million in teacher pension costs currently borne by the state Eliminates public campaign financing Cuts $500 million from public higher education, including $300 million from UConn Saves $270 million in pension costs over the next two years See More Collapse

Rally on the fly

About 50 Republicans flocked to the north steps of the Capitol at noon as part of a hastily-arranged rally, emboldened by Friday night and Saturday mornings budget vote. The legislative victory compounds GOP gains in the Legislature, where Democrats hold a 79 to 72 advantage in the House and the tie-breaker of the lieutenant governor in the Senate.

Connecticut could be the only state without budget if Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker signs a fiscal package approved by lawmakers in his state.

I think (Malloy) is likely to put the ball back in the court of the state Legislature, said Dave Walker, the former U.S. comptroller general and Republican gubernatorial candidate from Bridgeport. Look, I think the last thing we need right now is to increase taxes.

Walker acknowledged that Malloy is obviously in a strong position, because of the looming executive order, which keeps state government running but imposes austerity measures across the board.

Malloys spokeswoman Kelly Donnelly on Sunday referred back to the governors comments from Saturday, in which he called the GOP budget package unbalanced and unrealistic.

If the responsible solution I negotiated with Democrats isnt going to pass, then it is incumbent on the legislature to reach a new agreement soon  one that is realistic and, ideally, bipartisan, Malloy said then.

Democrats respond

Democrats spent the weekend doing damage control and sounding the alarm about the 1,000-page GOP plan.

This is a budget that completely destroys higher public education in this state, Brookfields Jennifer Schneider, a spokeswoman for the Service Employees International Union 1199 New England, said on the WTNH Sunday political talk show, Capitol Report. It ends our clean-election program. It lets Hartford go bankrupt. So this was nothing courageous or moral about this. This is something thats actually going to be hurting a lot of people in the state and is a terrible budget.

State Rep. Cristin McCarthy Vahey, D-Fairfield, who was one of six House Democrats to break ranks, called for a bipartisan fix to the states fiscal woes.

We all await the Governors next steps and will go forward from there, she said. The challenges confronting us were a long time in the making. We need to figure out a solution working together as leaders. I support every effort that will bring us closer to the kind of compromise we need to successfully adopt a state budget.

Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, said Malloy has given his assurances that he will immediately veto what is a short-sighted budget that undercuts collective bargaining and public education.

So much for allegedly responsible and realistic budgeting, Looney said.

Looney said theres a substantial danger that no budget gets passed by Oct. 1, defaulting to the governors cuts. He declined to say whether Democrats who joined Republicans will face punishment.

I think we have to look forward rather than backward and keep our focus on getting a budget, Looney said.

Both Republican gubernatorial hopefuls who spoke at Sundays rally could ironically become casualties of the proposed elimination of the decade-old Citizens Election Program, which was adopted after the resignation and imprisonment of Gov. John Rowland for corruptions.

Candidates for governor are eligible for $1.4 million in public funds for the primary and $6.5 million for the general election if win their partys nomination under the program. They must raise $250,000 in increments of $100 or less to qualify.

State Rep. Prasad Srinivasan, R-Glastonbury, has already raised the $250,000.

Its going to be a different ballgame for all of us, said Srinivasan, who voted for the budget. Is this a perfect budget? The answer is, no. Is it a good budget? Yes. We have lived in excess all of these years.

Walker said if publicly-funded elections, which could cost more than $40 million in 2018, ar eliminated, hell more than be able to make up for it. But to be fair to those gubernatorial candidates who are far along in qualifying, he said, the subsidy should be kept for the states highest office.

Thats actually a competitive advantage for me, Walker said.

Requests for comment were left Sunday for House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin.

Republicans sent a fundraising email blast Sunday morning to try to capitalize on their unexpected legislative victory.

Mark Greenberg, a Litchfield businessman running for state comptroller after multiple unsuccessful bids for Congress in the 5th District, said better days are ahead for Connecticut with GOP ideas.

Its always darkest before the dawn, he said.

http://twitter.com/gettinviggy; nvigdor@hearstmediact.com; 203-625-4436
HARTFORD  Gov. Dannel P. Malloy doubts that the Mashantucket Pequots and the Mohegans would agree to open up their exclusive deal for operating casinos in the state to allow an MGM Resorts casino in Bridgeport.

But perhaps theyll come forward and say thats what they want to do, Malloy said Monday. I cant imagine any scenario under which the tribal nations would agree to open up the compact on those grounds. But perhaps they will.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 / Danbury Police Department Show More Show Less 2 of 3 / Danbury Police Department Show More Show Less 3 of 3





DANBURY  Police arrested two Danbury men Monday, one who officers had been watching for weeks after residents complained he was selling drugs.

Investigators received a warrant on Friday to search the Coalpit Hill Road apartment of William Albers, 47, who residents accused of selling illegal drugs in the city.
MONTREAL, Sept. 15, 2017 /CNW/ - The 150th anniversary of Confederation is a reminder of our country's long history of global leadership in taking action to confront major global problems that threaten our health, the environment, and the economy.

Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, and her counterparts from the European Union and the United Nations celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, a historic international agreement that has eliminated over 99 percent of ozone-depleting substances.

Through the cooperation of countries around the world, the ozone layer is now recovering. Scientists estimate that the ozone layer is set to recover by the middle of the century. Every year since 1987, the Montreal Protocol has prevented millions of cases of skin cancer and eye cataracts globally.

The Montreal Protocol is an example of successful global cooperation and Canada-U.S. leadership. This cooperation remains strong as both countries worked together during last year's negotiations to phase down climate-warming hydrofluorocarbons, under the Montreal Protocol.

Through the reduction of hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol, the Earth can avoid warming by up to half a degree Celsius by the end of the century while we continue to protect the ozone layer.

Canada is urging countries to ratify the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol as soon as possible to start implementing it and maximize its climate benefits. The amendment is an important step towards achieving the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming below two degrees Celsius by the end of the century.

Discussions on the next steps in putting the Kigali Amendment into action will take place later this year, during the Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol. Canada will host the meeting in Montreal, where hundreds of delegates and world environmental leaders will gather from November 20 to 24.

The Government of Canada will continue taking a leadership role in protecting the ozone layer, tackling climate change, and helping our country and the world grow a cleaner global economy.

Quote

"Canada played a key role in helping the international community achieve the Montreal Protocol, in 1987. The Montreal Protocol remains to this day one of the most successful examples of the world working together to address global environmental challenges. Like the Paris Agreement, it shows the amazing things we can accomplish when countries work together on a common goal. Our government is building on that leadership because we recognize that protecting the environment, addressing climate change, and supporting economic growth go hand in hand."

 Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Quick facts

The Earth's ozone layer acts like a shield, absorbing UV radiation from the Sun and providing us with protection from these harmful effects.

Before the Montreal Protocol, ozone-depleting chemicals were commonly used in refrigerators, insulation foams, spray cans, and air conditioners, in Canada .

. Hydrofluorocarbons are a family of chemicals widely used as coolants in refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment. They are powerful greenhouse gases with global-warming potential hundreds to thousands of times greater than that of carbon dioxide, and hydrofluorocarbons are the fastest-growing greenhouse gases in most of the world.

While hydrofluorocarbons currently account for 1 to 2 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, if left uncontrolled, they could account for as much as 10 percent of such emissions by 2050.

Reducing the use of hydrofluorocarbons will reduce the harmful effects of climate change, such as intense rainfall that can contaminate water supplies; severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and floods that can cause injury; economic hardship; and mental distress on Canadians, no matter where they live.

The Montreal Protocol is signed by 197 countries, making it the first treaty in the history of the United Nations to achieve universal ratification.

Since 1987, the Montreal Protocol has

Prevented up to two million cases of skin cancer and eye cataracts globally



Cut the equivalent of over 135 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, approximately the same amount Canada would produce in 175 years (Some ozone-depleting substances are also powerful greenhouse gases.)

would produce in 175 years (Some ozone-depleting substances are also powerful greenhouse gases.)

Almost phased out ozone-depleting chemicals in Canada

By reducing hydrofluorocarbons, under the Montreal Protocol, the Earth can avoid warming by up to half a degree Celsius by the end of the century while we continue to protect the ozone layer.

Phasing down hydrofluorocarbons is a key part of Canada's commitments under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

Associated links

Ozone Heroes

The Montreal Protocol: protecting the ozone layer and tackling climate change

Environment and Climate Change Canada's Twitter page

Environment and Natural Resources in Canada's Facebook page

SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada

For further information: Marie-Pascale Des Rosiers, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 613-462-5473, [email protected]; Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free), [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.ec.gc.ca


Kinepolis Group NV located in Ghent, Belgium, was formed in 1997 through the merger of two family cinema groups and was listed on the stock exchange in 1998. Kinepolis offers an innovative cinema concept which serves as a pioneering model within the industry. Kinepolis Group NV has 48 cinemas, and a total of 500 screens spread across Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Poland. In addition to its cinema business, the Group is also active in film distribution, event organization, on-screen advertising and property management.

"Landmark's significant investment in recliner seating to create an industry-leading movie-going experience aligns directly with similar initiatives by Kinepolis across Europe," said Neil Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Landmark Cinemas Canada. "Combining with Kinepolis will also provide Canadian movie lovers with greater access to world class cinema experiences."

Eddy Duquenne, CEO of Kinepolis Group, says: "Both Kinepolis and Landmark Cinemas are passionate about offering the ultimate customer experience. The combination of the Kinepolis three-pillar strategy of being the best cinema operator, the best marketer and best real estate manager, its focus on providing an excellent customer experience, also through the use of enhanced customer feedback tools, together with its financial strength provides a unique opportunity to accelerate the growth of the Landmark Cinema network in Canada. Working together, the two groups will be able to create long-term value, resulting in an unparalleled customer experience for the Canadian moviegoers."

"The innovative and entrepreneurial culture that we have been fortunate to build over the past 52 years at Landmark matches perfectly with Kinepolis," said Brian F. McIntosh, Executive Chairman, Landmark Cinemas Canada. "Joining the Kinepolis family is a terrific opportunity for Landmark's people, who will continue to lead the Canadian business and build their careers as part of a global leader in the cinema industry. Our guests and business partners will also benefit from the expertise that Landmark will be able to leverage from Kinepolis."

About Landmark Cinemas Canada LP, Canada's second largest motion picture, theatre exhibition company.

From a single screen in 1965, today Landmark Cinemas continues to provide the perfect setting for Movie Lovers to connect and share the perfect movie-going experience. We are connected to the communities we serve and our Cast and Crew are proud to support Kids Help Phone programs and initiatives. The corporate headquarters for Landmark Cinemas is in Calgary, Alberta. For additional information: landmarkcinemas.com

About Kinepolis Group NV

For additional information: https://corporate.kinepolis.com/en

SOURCE Landmark Cinemas

For further information: Media inquiries to: Bill Walker, Chief Operating Officer, LANDMARK CINEMAS, Direct: +1 (403) 813-7114, Email: [email protected]; Kinepolis Press Office: +32 (0)9 241 00 16, [email protected]
TORONTO, Sept. 15, 2017 /CNW/ - Unifor, through the Union's Social Justice Fund, has donated $500,000 to the Canadian Red Cross for Hurricane Irma aid in the Caribbean.



"This donation by Unifor will reach the most vulnerable people in the Caribbean to help provide desperately needed relief efforts and supplies, which may include items such as shelter, food, and clean water," said Unifor National President Jerry Dias.



Millions of people were left devastated by Hurricane Irma. Unifor's donation will provide direct assistance and emergency relief where it is needed most, in the hardest hit Caribbean countries.



"The Canadian Red Cross wants to thank Unifor for their support towards relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Irma," said Conrad Sauve, President and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "This generous donation will help assist many families who are in need following this devastating category five hurricane."



"The Unifor Social Justice Fund has a strong partnership with the Canadian Red Cross, providing past relief for disasters including the Alberta fires, New Brunswick ice storms, flood relief in the Atlantic and Quebec, and recently the BC wildfires," said Unifor Director of Human Rights and International Mohamad Alsadi. "In this great time of need we will work together once again to make a difference for the people impacted by Hurricane Irma."



In addition to the Social Justice Fund donation the Canadian Red Cross has also set up a portal for individual Unifor members to donate directly at www.redcross.ca/HurricaneIrma/Unifor. Unifor is also challenging other unions to donate to help the Canadian Red Cross in this humanitarian effort.

The Unifor Social Justice Fund is a registered charity, maintained by contributions from Unifor employers negotiated during collective bargaining, for more information visit unifor.org/sjf.



Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor

For further information: For more information, please contact Unifor Communications Representative Kathleen O'Keefe at [email protected] or 416-896-3303 (cell).
By GMM 18 September 2017 - 10:51





Carlos Sainz left Singapore on Monday wondering if it had been his last race for Toro Rosso.

The Spaniard made his F1 debut for the junior Red Bull team in 2015, but will be loaned to the works Renault team next year.

So when Sainz crossed the line in a career-best fourth place on Sunday, Toro Rosso boss Franz Tost told him on the radio: "Stay with us. We dont (want to) let you go."

Tost may also have been alluding to persistent speculation that Sainz, 23, could replace Renaults Jolyon Palmer as soon as the next race in Malaysia.

Reports indicate Palmer is weighing up a contract buy-out offer of between $3 and $7 million.

So when asked if Singapore was a fitting way to farewell Toro Rosso, Sainz answered: "Yes, but Im still not thinking this was my last race.

"I told my team and my mechanics beforehand to not worry about what happens next. Lets just do a perfect weekend."
The bandh is in protest of police action on its leaders during a march to the Secretariat on Monday.
MIAMI - The astonishing hurricanes of 2017, Harvey and Irma, have provided a sobering lesson in the power of nature, along with some modest reassurance about how Americans respond when calm blue skies turn a violent gray.

The next test could come sooner than anyone wants. This stormy hurricane season is a long way from over, and there are ominous stirrings in the Atlantic, which has a history of brewing tropical cyclones that spin toward the United States. Hurricane Jose has been loitering in the Atlantic and might be preparing a run toward the East Coast this week. And Hurricane Maria is expected to hit the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean on Monday.

While Texas and the Southeast pick up after significant wind and flood damage, the welcome news from the Harvey and Irma hurricanes is that, in a crisis, neighbors help neighbors. The government did not stumble and bumble as it did initially during the Hurricane Katrina disaster of 2005. Improved storm track forecasts gave millions of people and civic leaders time to prepare for tornadic winds and biblical flooding.

But the storms were not without moments of confusion and chaos, as well as tragic mistakes.

In Texas, first responders were overwhelmed, leaving many flood-related rescues to a nomadic corps of volunteers with boats. In Sarasota, Florida, the American Red Cross struggled to staff emergency shelters because many of its local volunteers are snowbirds who don't arrive in Florida until October or later, said Jacqueline Fellhauer, who manages one of the Red Cross shelters.

"We were just trying to grab people out of the sky," she said.

Perhaps the biggest lesson from the storms was driven home by the shocking images of flooded nursing homes in Texas and eight deaths at a facility for the elderly in Florida last week: In emergencies, communities and their government officials need to be much more effective in protecting the most-fragile members of society.

The episode in South Florida, where the facility grew dangerously hot after losing air conditioning in the storm - along with multiple instances in Texas where entire residential populations of the infirm and wheelchair-bound required boat rescues - has prompted advocates and state authorities to finger-point and soul-search.

Advocates argued that all nursing homes should be marked as top priorities in both state evacuation and emergency response strategies. Better enforcement of existing codes - such as ensuring that generators are functional and up to date - might also be necessary.

"The lesson learned is, when you lose power you have to get the frail elderly out of the nursing homes," an outraged Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., said in a telephone interview, remarking on the deaths at a Hollywood, Florida, facility. "The nursing home is right across the street from the hospital."

In Houston, scores of people died in flooding that, although historic in scale, was predicted by meteorologists many days in advance. Harvey would strike the Gulf Coast and then inundate Southeast Texas with days of rain, they warned. Yet many residents were unprepared to see their homes and belongings lost suddenly to floodwater, and thousands needed to be rescued from the tops of homes or cars, sometimes after making ill-advised ventures out into the fast-flowing current.

A number of observers have applauded Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner's decision not to evacuate the city. The flooding, in the end, caused fewer deaths than the evacuation of Houston ahead of Hurricane Rita in 2005. But the days before the storm were filled with conflicting official messages, stirring elements of panic, confusion and hand-wringing among Texans. Gov. Greg Abbott, R, for example, encouraged coastal evacuations, while Turner, D, told residents to shelter in place.

In the aftermath of the storm, the state's highly decentralized system of government meant that casualties were slow to tally and the desperate needs of local jurisdictions - like Beaumont, a city that languished without running water for days - appeared to get lost in the morass of competing cries for help.

"You never have one clear distinctive voice," said retired Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen, who helped prop up the federal response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

By contrast, Allen said, Florida benefited from the clear leadership of Gov. Rick Scott, R: "The governor was out front, he was the voice of the state, he was transparent, he was credible, he emoted."

The volunteers who flocked to the rescue efforts in Houston were a source of pride for many Texans, and an illustration, many said, of what went right during the crisis. But the citizen heroes of Houston learned some lessons as well. The flooded streets of the city and its suburbs contained dips and hills, deep water, shallow water and dangerously rushing water, and the amateur rescuers were sometimes woefully ill-equipped.

Air boats and john boats were good for city rescues but often became treacherous in strong currents, they found. Bigger boats could handle the current, but were useless in shallower water, and problematic when curbs, cars, mailboxes and other obstacles got in the way.

Charitable efforts after the storms also saw a tide of donations mismatched to needs: too many clothes and would-be rescuers, and too few cleaning supplies and ready laborers to help with the unglamorous task of dragging moldy furniture out of wrecked homes, local church leaders said.

- - -

Hurricanes expose the flaws in infrastructure. And in some instances, the airing of those flaws has sounded like a broken record.

Earlier warnings against Houston's unchecked building explosion have come back to haunt it yet again, environmentalists and civil engineers said this month, attributing part of the flooding to the city's lack of adequate drainage and excessive building in areas of known risk.

Old sewage systems in flat landscapes that require the pumping of wastewater need backup plans when the power gets knocked out and the facilities flood, as much of Central Florida has discovered. The power grid turned out to be so vulnerable to windstorms that 16 million people across the southeastern United States, most of them in Florida, lost power from Hurricane Irma, a U.S. record. Some still haven't gotten it back.

And then there are the basic needs that come with the basic facts of living on or near a coast.

"We need better generators, we need to require generators at shelters, and they need to be beefy enough to sustain lights, food service, and a semblance of air-conditioning and fans," said Sarasota City Manager Tom Barwin.

There were "glitches" in the shelter plan in Miami-Dade County, Mayor Carlos Gimenez admitted as the storm roared toward Florida. He had insisted that the county open enough space for 100,000 people. But the Red Cross had trouble mustering volunteers amid difficult travel conditions, and many shelters were short-staffed.

In 1960, when Hurricane Donna rode up Florida, a peninsula that juts directly into Hurricane Alley, the state had fewer than 5 million residents. Today it has more than 20 million, and an average of roughly 1,000 people move to the state every day.

The Houston metropolitan area's population, estimated by the U.S. Census Bureau to be about 6.6 million, has similarly boomed during the past few decades, adding more than 100,000 people from 2014 to 2015 alone.

Along the packed U.S. coastlines, these waves of humanity are meeting a rising sea. Climate change intensifies deluges, and warmer water can supercharge a hurricane.

But trying to stop the population growth would be unrealistic, experts and officials say.

"People are going to come to Florida," Sen. Nelson said. "So we have to use the best scientific evidence about hurricanes and wind speeds and drainage and water and so forth, so that we have smart growth, not irresponsible growth."

Robert Gilbert, a professor and the chair of the civil, architectural and environmental engineering department at the University of Texas at Austin, echoed that view for geographical "bathtubs" like Houston and New Orleans.

Instead of rebuilding homes with the kind of materials that will require the large-scale stripping of drywall every time there's a flood, communities should build with the reality of floods in mind, Gilbert and other experts said. They recommended using materials that hold up better in water and considering drainage. For example, in many frequently wet parts of the world, homes are made of concrete, he said.

"Saying we're not going to let people move there is naive," Gilbert said. "Maybe a better way of looking at it is how to build better, so that people can get wet but not lose their houses and not lose their jobs."

And instead of offering flood insurance to only those in arbitrarily marked flood zones, face up to the reality that flooding is a pervasive risk that warrants broad protection in the United States, he added. "The way we deal with flood insurance in the United States is broken."

Others think it might be better to throw in the towel in some spots.

In Houston, Mayor Turner said Thursday that rebuilding low-income apartment complexes in areas like Greenspoint, a frequent flood zone on the north side of the city, might not be wise.

"Quite frankly, we've already had a conversation with FEMA because it may not be the best thing to rebuild in those locations," he said at a news conference. "Otherwise we'll find ourselves in those conditions again."

In Bonita Springs, in Southwest Florida, flooding from a late August storm had not dried up by the time Hurricane Irma hit last week, submerging the area in four feet of water a few days later.

The low-lying city has been involved in a years-long legal battle over whether to allow development on its east side. It's vacant now and absorbs rainwater during major storms.

Mayor Peter Simmons thinks it's time to consider buying out dozens of homeowners and letting the river do what it wants to do, an idea he said he discussed this week with Gov. Scott.

"No matter what you do, Mother Nature is always going to win," Simmons said.

William "Brock" Long, the FEMA administrator, has had two epic storms in his first three months on the job, and what he's seen affirms his philosophy that the United States needs a fundamental change in disaster preparedness.

"We don't seem to learn the lessons over and over again from past hurricanes," he said. He cited the many people who refused to evacuate from storm-surge zones, "which blows my mind."

He said he believes the 10,000 people who didn't evacuate the Florida Keys "got lucky, and don't realize that a shift of that storm track, just a few miles west or east, could have had devastating impact." Likewise, a slightly different path could have sent storm surge rampaging into Tampa Bay, or widespread devastation along Florida's Gulf Coast.

Americans need to save money, Long said. They need to recognize that disasters will happen.

"We need a true culture of preparedness," he said.

Sen Marco Rubio, R-Fla., echoed that sentiment after touring damage from Irma.

"You live in the tropics, you live in South Florida, you're never more than 10 days away from a hurricane," Rubio said.

In Miami, where authorities have yet to finish clearing thousands of downed palm trees and power lines, humorist Dave Barry - who lived through Hurricane Andrew in 1992 - offered his own lesson learned from Irma:

"Never fall into the trap of thinking it won't happen again. But also never fall into the trap of thinking, while it's happening, that you should have moved to Oklahoma. No offense to Oklahoma, there's a reason you live in Florida. And in the end, it's worth it."

- - -

Sullivan reported from Houston and Bonita Springs, Florida, and Hauslohner reported from Houston. Roy Furchgott in Sarasota, Florida, contributed to this report.
NEW HAVEN  Greg McVerry, a professor at Southern Connecticut State University with an interest in the intersection between literacy and technology, doesnt want the internet taken for granted.

I do think its under threat right now, he said.

Among those threats, he said, are large corporations, such as Facebook, Google and Amazon, owning an increasingly larger share of online data and a faction of people cynically disregarding news as false.

The best remedy to this threat, he thinks, is increasing students media literacy.

We should empower students to control their own data, he said, by decentralizing the web. Additionally, he believes schools should teach young people how to verify information they read.

McVerry, a contributor with Mozilla since 2011, hopes to improve Web literacy across the globe and overcome what he calls access inadequacy issues. For instance, in India, he said he witnessed students learning how to code in HTML by stacking bricks, similarly to how programmers stack code.

One of the ways he has done this is by collaborating on Thimble, an online code editor by Mozilla, which teaches students the fundamentals of constructing a website.

Rather than giving Facebook or Twitter your information, post it to your own site, he said. The best way to be private is to own your data.

In 2016, Mozilla named McVerry one of its 50 individuals making the internet a better place.

McVerrys role with Mozilla offered New Haven students an opportunity to pilot much of the Thimble program. One former student coded an online comic on the Trail of Tears, which has been used as the template for one of Thimbles lessons.

It has been remixed over thousands of times, McVerry said.

The culture of the internet was largely shaped by the first billion people to use it, he said. Todays students are part of the next billion, who in many ways have inherited it, and he wants to teach them how to sustain and improve it.

McVerrys work in spreading online literacy extends to his position on the board of the Literacy Coalition of Greater New Haven. Often, it is assumed that todays children are digital natives, having grown up with internet technology.

We assume just because kids can post to Instagram they know how the technology works, but its just not true, he said.

He said he has also come to learn that individuals from a lower socioeconomic status often have more screen access than wealthy people, but the quality of the screen time is often lower quality or with less educational benefit. When teaching, he found he was best suited to sending parents text messages, as many have limited data plans. The digital divide, or the idea that students with access to internet and a computer at home will do better at digital tasks in school than those without, is real.

When theyre not digitally literate, they often arent skilled at reading online sources and synthesizing those sources, he said. Students dont need to know every technology, but they need to have the disposition to be self-programmable learners.

He said he has witnessed some positive strides in New Havens public schools to include digital literacy in curriculum in the last five years, but he would recommend a shift in attitudes toward classroom learning altogether.

I want to start looking at expanding the New Haven Public Schools campus so the city of New Haven becomes the campus, he said. We can reexamine how we do high school credits and dual enrollment programs.

As more higher education classes are being taught online, McVerry believes there are more opportunities for Elm City students to receive college credits in high school than ever, and public places like libraries can become a classroom.

Were trying to expand learning beyond the classroom walls, he said.

Many students might be gifted artists, uploading music to the web, he said, which can be something students can receive credit for.

It means supplementing tests with authentic learning tasks. Its testing students on what they want to learn, he said. It comes down to kids doing school, rather than it happening to them.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

WOODBRIDGE >> Melinda Elliotts self-proclaimed longtime love affair with one-room schoolhouses was stirred during her New England honeymoon, when the Texan by way of Florida first saw the little classrooms in person.

Those legacies of a bygone era in education conjure up a romantic image to Elliott, and are seen as a nostalgic treasure.

Schoolhouses have always interested me, Elliott said. My mother went to a one-room schoolhouse, her grandmother taught in a one-room schoolhouse.

Her continued passion has resulted in the book, Connecticut Schoolhouses Through Time, with Arcadia Publishing. The format features photographs of 91 schoolhouses; pictured in their heyday juxtaposed with recent images Elliott captured herself. Informative, paragraph-long captions separate the photos on each page.

Elliotts first published work was the realization of both an involvement with her local historical society, and an idea to use the schoolhouse postcards she collected that never got traction.

About 10 years ago I tried to get something published where youd put the old postcards in a book, Elliott said. I was told that the market was too limited, and so that sort of sat on the back burner for a long time.

The Southbury Historical Society  of which she is currently on the board of directors  received a request last September for a book with new photographs set against old photographs of the town.

Elliott said there were already three books on Southbury in that same style, so she instead asked if she could do the new/old photograph format on just schoolhouses in the state. She was given a book contract within a week.

Her knowledge of the subject also drew on her work with Southburys Bullet Hill School, a living history museum that demonstrates what education was like in the early 1800s to current elementary school students. The school, built sometime between 1762 and 1789, operated until December 1941.

Little schools were set up so kids wouldnt have to walk more than 2 miles to school, Elliott said.

That meant that each schoolhouse, in turn, was its own district. Typically, she said, neighbors, siblings, and cousins would be in one school taught by one teacher for grades 1 through 8.

Elliott said she is a stickler for accuracy, so she read old newspaper articles and accounts from teacher diaries. In them she would find specific details, like, for example, how the optimal classroom temperature in the winter was 62 degrees, taking two hours to warm up to it.

They would put the inkwells in a box of sand to prevent the ink from freezing overnight, she said.

Teaching at Bullet Hill School came to an end for the same reason most other one-room schoolhouses in Connecticut were shuttered.

It became too expensive to support every single little schoolhouse, Elliott said. And so, everybody thought it was better to have a consolidated school.

Reliable motorized transportation played a part, too, as students could more easily be brought to a centralized school instead of a reliance on how far a student could walk from home.

Elliott talked while seated on the porch of the restored South School in Woodbridge, noting the separate marked entrances for boys and girls. The small, white schoolhouse was slowly brought back to its original-looking condition starting 15 years ago, after spending part of the early 20th century as a fire station, Elliot said.

Local schoolhouses

Aside from Woodbridge, schoolhouses in the greater New Haven area didnt always make the cut for her book. She attributed it to the lack of restored buildings, and in a few cases not being able to source enough historical information.

North Branfords little red schoolhouse, though, opens the books second chapter, with Clinton and Killingworth rounding out the other local towns included in the book.

Clintons red Cow Hill schoolhouse, named after the area where cows roamed freely on a community pasture, was built in 1800 to replace an earlier school and remained in use until 1894. The building is currently owned by the town and sits on a small triangular plot bordered by Airline and Cow Hill roads.

Killingworth, which formed a single town with Clinton until 1838, features no less than three schoolhouses in Elliots book. Built in 1800, the Union District School is the oldest and distinctive in its green hue. Along with the Pine Orchard and Black Rock schoolhouses, built in 1853 and 1860, respectively, they were in use until the late 1940s when the town closed all small schoolhouses and moved students to a consolidated school.

About North Branfords schoolhouse, Elliott said, in an email: It was built sometime between 1800 and 1805, and had shelf desks along the side of the room. The children sat on benches, with their backs to the teacher. The building was used until 1925, when the modern school opened a short distance away.

Two years after it closed the League of Women Voters purchased the building, she said, and moved it from the original location on Route 22 to Old Post Road. The Totoket Historical Society maintains the restored schoolhouse.

The restoration and current condition of many of the states old schoolhouses are a direct result of what towns and historical societies began several decades ago.

In 1976, when the bicentennial was coming up, Elliott said, a lot of the historical societies were scrambling, and saying, We want a part of our history to display, what can we do?

More than 40 years later, she said, the funds have mostly dried up and a new round of restorations is needed.

The schoolhouses are starting to fall apart, the money has disappeared, she said. So thats sort of my hope, is that people will look at the book and want to be involved with making sure the schoolhouses are preserved.

Elliotts book is set to be released on Sept. 4, and will be available online at Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and Wal-Mart.
WEST HAVEN  New Haven Mayor Toni Harp joined University of New Haven president Steven H. Kaplan Monday to formally introduce a partnership between the the New Haven Sister Cities program and the university.

New Haven Sister Cities President Shaundolyn Slaughter co-signed the memorandum of understanding along with Harp and Kaplan, who said Monday the partnership will bolster the universitys global partnerships and cross-cultural understanding for UNH students. The university is home to more than 7,000 students from 43 states and 45 countries.

The partnership will allow university students a chance to interact with people from eight different countries, Kaplan said. He said he looks forward to a, successful partnership.

Cultural sensitivity is very much a part of who we are and how we approach education, Kaplan said. Because of our friends at New Haven Sister Cities, we eagerly anticipate the many world-changing opportunities that our students, faculty and staff will have.

Kaplan offered an anecdote involving author Kurt Vonnegut, whom Kaplan said he personally invited to join a college advisory board many years ago. Vonnegut declined after revealing he had previously been invited to a board in New York but was unable to fulfill his duties, indicating he couldnt add another responsibility.

Were not just doing this to put this, so to speak, on our resume, Kaplan said. Were doing this because we believe deeply in the work that Sister Cities does. We believe deeply in global, international education.

Harp said the partnership will promote New Haven and the Greater New Haven region, as a global destination and messenger of peace. She thanked Kaplan for his enthusiasm and optimism for education, which Harp said, is the best elixir for a world so often challenged by xenophobia and fear.

She recalled how the program helped provide a lifeline to its sister city in Sierra Leone following an Ebola outbreak in 2014.

All of the sister cities got together to help, Harp said. Over $200,000 was raised in this area to send medical supplies to Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Slaughter said New Haven Sister Cities board of directors is, thrilled to join the partnership with the university. She said sister cities across the globe work together to achieve, global health, education, and cultural and economic advances.

Our New Haven Sister Cities in partnership with University of New Haven promises to be an outstanding next chapter for our current eight sister cities and the people we hope will now take full advantage of the resources and talents of this campus, Slaughter said.

The Sister Cities program was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in the mid-1950s to encourage more cooperation and diplomacy between American cities and cities abroad.

By forming these relationships, President Eisenhower reasoned, that people from different cultures could understand, appreciate and celebrate their differences while building partnerships that would lessen the chance of new conflicts, Harp said.

New Havens sister city program was founded in 1982. The city eight current sister cities include cities in China, Israel, Nicaragua, Vietnam and Mexico.

Reach Esteban L. Hernandez at 203-680-9901
NEW HAVEN >> The announcement of Alexion Pharmaceuticals relocating its headquarters may have been a bitter pill for New Haven and the state to swallow, but the move may lead to further growth in the citys entrepreneurial ecosystem for biotech.

Just as Alexion went from the laboratories of Yale University to a for-profit company a decade and a half ago, many new candidates looking to turn the next big idea await their turn to begin that journey.

Thus far in 2017 alone, the Yale Office of Cooperative Research has launched 11 new faculty ventures, representing $70.9 million in aggregate funding, according to university officials. The Office of Cooperative Research is responsible for developing and executing commercialization strategies for Yale faculty research.

But there is a huge potential stumbling block for all these fledgling companies  a lack of adequate lab space in the city.

Once a professors lab findings are converted into a company, the business entity can no longer be housed in university-owned space, said Jon Soderstrom, managing director of Yales Office of Cooperative Research.

And in New Haven, we happen to be out of space for these start-ups, he said.

Thats why as soon as Alexion made its relocation intentions know to the city and state of Connecticut, Yale officials began discussions with the rare disease drug maker and Winstanley Enterprises, the Massachusetts-based company that is the landlord for the 14-story office building that currently serves as the pharmaceutical firms headquarters.

Soderstrom, managing director of Yale Universitys Office of Cooperative Research, confirmed discussions about some of the Yale spin-offs moving into available space in 100 College Street. But he declined to discuss what he thinks is a possible time line for the negotiations because another office at the university is handling the negotiations.

In a city filled with vacant remnants of New Havens industrial past, Soderstrom said creating new lab space isnt a simple as buying a vacant building and retrofitting it. For one thing, laboratories have highly specific infrastructure requirements.

Research laboratories have a variety of requirements like venting and bringing in natural gas, he said. When youre doing lab space, its expensive.

The school could look to place the new companies in space outside the city. But Soderstrom said school officials prefer to keep the start-ups in New Haven.

We are part of this city and we want it to succeed, he said. And when the companies that we spin off succeed, the city benefits.

Another factor that has kept space for research-driven companies in the city is investor expectations, according to Soderstrom. Taking Yale research into the marketplace requires money from outside investors, he said, and they expect their money to be put to work fast.

If you have to spend six months or more building out lab space before the investors money is used to hire researchers or purchase special types of laboratory equipment, thats going to be a problem.

One office complex that is designed for technology companies, Science Park in the citys Newhallville section, doesnt have enough space to accommodate the needs of the Office of Cooperative Research, Soderstrom said. Science Park is where Alexion, which was founded by Leonard Bell in 1992, got its start before the company relocated to Cheshire in 1997.

There are companies that are growing and need to take more space, he said of Science Park.

The amount of space that a start-up company needs is based on what its research plans dictate, Soderstrom said.

You want to have the space you need right now, plus room to grow in the future, he said. It varies from company to company, but typically, its about 10,000 square feet.

Kim Diamond, a spokeswoman for Alexion, said the company expects to lease a number of floors of its 100 College Street following the move of its headquarters in mid-2018.

The permitting of the building is mixed, including use as laboratories, and Alexion has ample parking for co-tenants of the building, she said. The building is currently not being used at its full capacity. Several floors are available for sub-leasing now.

Diamond did not have details regarding how much square footage was immediately available for subleasing or how much would become available once Alexions headquarters operations are fully relocated.

Ironically, the original plans for 100 College Street called for Yale to have space in the building. But those plans were scrapped because Alexion officials said the company needed more space as it returned to the city in early 2016,

David Cadden, a professor emeritus at Quinnipiac Universitys School of Business, said if officials of Yales Office of Cooperative Research are able to secure space in 100 College, it will allow them to spin off companies at a more rapid rate. And Alexions history and recent actions not withstanding, Cadden said New Haven is better off having Yale create as many spin-off companies as possible.

Of course, some will leave or be acquired or fail, he said. But youve got to start getting a small cluster of innovative business. The University of Texas had a similar story arc with students deciding to stay and create a business where they went to school and we all know the kind of buzz that Austin has now.

Cadden said that Yale alumni choosing to stay and build their business in the city and the New Haven area has got to be a benefit, in terms of the loyalty these entrepreneurs will have to the school and the region.

Youre going to have alumni who are very grateful to the school and the region for helping them get their start, he said.

John Boyd, whose Princeton, New Jersey firm consults with some of the nations leading companies on corporate relocations, said Yales reputation in terms spinning off companies and knowledge driven research is powerful enough to create an area of innovation.

Very few colleges and universities have the stature, the alumni, the panache to pull that off, Boyd said.

Call Luther Turmelle at 203-680-9388.
NEW HAVEN >> Playwright Ike Holter said he was never encouraged outside of his home to write growing up black and gay in the Midwest. Years later, he thinks he knows why that is.

They knew the power of a story, he said Thursday morning.

Holter is one of eight writers of plays, poetry, fiction and nonfiction who received a WindhamCampbell Literature Prize in 2017, an award for $165,000 issued annually by Yale University since 2013. Five of those winners met with students at Cooperative Arts and Humanities High School to answer questions about their works and their process.

Our kids get more and more out of it every year because of the diversity of the panel, said Timothy Jones, the schools arts director. Co-op has been a two-day stop for prizewinners during the weeklong Windham-Campbell festival since its inception. Its a great opportunity to learn firsthand and run that gamut of experience.

After the writers speak about their process at the panel discussion, students take one of five writing workshops led by each.

Jones said that, as the list of prize winners grows, he would like to see some of them return to the school for a residency in the future.

I think they get out of us as much as we get out of them, he said.

Irish playwright Marina Carr told the students she believes she would have benefited from attending a humanities-focused school as a teenager. Writing at 17 years old, she said, she was laughed at rather than encouraged.

While all five panelists share that they are award winning writers, they all told students radically different stories as to how they came to writing.

For Holter, it meant creating more content after finishing one of his favorite book series in fifth grade and for Carr, who comes from a family of writers, it was a bonding activity with her five siblings. Kiwi nonfiction writer Ashleigh Young said she began writing as a means of navigating her shyness, and Canadian novelist Andre Alexis told students he wanted to be a musician, but hated the company of musicians.

Meanwhile, Aboriginal Australian Ali Cobby Eckermann said she began writing poetry to preserve some sanity. After being separated from her mother as a baby and later her son as a teenager under Australias various child removal policies, she met her mother for the first time at 34 and her 18-year-old son at 38.

(Poetry was) the only way I could understand the emotions I was feeling without going crazy, she said. I wanted to write healing poetry.

Several of the questions posed by five student moderators asked the writers why the conclusions to the works they read were tragic or glum.

Holter, who wrote his play Exit Strategy about a failing Chicago public school, said he is creeped out by white savior narratives that mimic the sly salesmanship of Harold Hill in The Music Man.

Life is incredibly tough and about survival, he said. It felt disingenuous to write about Chicago and to put a ribbon on a present nobody gets to open.

He said in Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuels city, public school students have repeatedly been given short shrift.

I think the end of Exit Strategy pushes the audience to ask: how hard would you fight? he said.

Student Athena Singh asked Eckermann why she believes love does not conquer all: she said that, as a grandmother who had been separated from her mother and son, she still wonders what love is.

Carr said she drew from the Greek myth of Madea, who killed her children in vengeance, because she believes women killing their children is the last taboo. Save for a few oligarchs who rule the world and are going to blow it up, she said humans, and especially women, are kept restrained.

Co-op junior Janasia Griffin said having authors speak to students directly is powerful for her as a creative writing major. Junior Jeralyn Gary said she was more enthused to have a chance to interact with the authors outside the panel.

Sarah Wessler, coordinator for arts and humanities partnerships in Yales Office of New Haven and State Affairs, said students were excited in advance of the authors arrival when reading their pieces this summer.

Bringing the voice of a person who wrote the texts is so much more impactful, she said. Witnessing details like Eckermanns feet in sandals or hearing Carrs accent, she said, assist students in having a greater understanding of the people behind the works, who they are and the culture that shaped them.
The Supreme Court has long kept a distance from arguments over gerrymandering, that most American practice of redrawing the lines of legislative districts in order to tip elections toward the party in power.

But early next month, the justices will hear a challenge to the 2011 redrawing of Wisconsins state legislative map by Republican lawmakers  a demonstration of how increasingly powerful technology allows partisan mapmakers to distort representation with ever-greater precision. Using computer modeling, Wisconsins Republican-controlled legislature produced districts so unbalanced that, in 2012, Republicans won a supermajority in the state assembly even after losing the popular vote. And the state GOP continued to entrench that hold in 2014 and 2016, even after winning only slim majorities of the vote.

Given that the case, Gill v. Whitford, concerns an egregious abuse of power to the advantage of Republicans, its heartening to see officials of that same party condemn Wisconsins map. In a series of recently filedlegalbriefs before the Supreme Court, high-profile Republican politicians  including Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) and Ohio Gov. John Kasich  stand shoulder to shoulder with Democrats to report from the political front lines on the destructive effects of gerrymandering.

The legal arguments against extreme partisan gerrymandering focus on the practices offensiveness to constitutional promises of equal protection and free expression: Voters packed into skewed districts have less of a voice in the political process and are arguably penalized for their party affiliation. And in cases such as Wisconsins, technology allows legislators to create maps that essentially immunize the party in power from ever being voted out. The bipartisan briefs make clear how a practice designed to undercut democratic competition further degrades American politics by weakening public faith in government and pushing lawmakers away from compromise, especially in the House of Representatives. This is not an issue of one partys advantage over another - Democrats have also used gerrymandering against Republicans when convenient, most notably in Maryland - but a matter of bipartisan concern.

In the past, the Supreme Court has been reluctant to intervene against partisan redistricting for fear of becoming entangled in political disputes. But the court should take seriously the testimonials of both Republican and Democratic officials as to gerrymanderings destructiveness to democracy  and should strike down Wisconsins skewed map.

While the question of just where to draw the line between acceptable and unconstitutional partisan gerrymanders may be far from simple in many instances, Wisconsins is an extreme case. And with many politicians unwilling to give up the ability to draw their own districts, gerrymandering is uniquely resistant to political solutions. Establishing standards for judicial oversight would help deter overeager lawmakers from hijacking the redistricting process to cement their hold on power.

Gerrymandering has contributed to a crisis of confidence in our democracy, reads the brief filed by McCain and his Democratic colleague Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.). The judiciary cannot and should not be the sole solution to this crisis, but it has a valuable role to play in reassuring Americans that their votes matter.
Enugu and Ebonyi State chapters of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Monday, insisted on entrenching zoning of political positions in Nigerias constitution.They took their stand while making presentations before the APC committee on restructuring, which held a public hearing in Enugu for the South-East zone.Speaking on behalf of the Enugu APC, the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Osita Okechukwu said upon completion of 8-year tenure by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2013, the power should move to the Southern Nigeria and by extension the South-East.He as well lambasted the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for trying pretending to be champions of restructuring, even after they wasted 16 years of opportunity to do carry out the exercise.He said, it is a matter of how, when, and which phase, we deploy the Art of Compromise to cross over the ubiquitous national question. This is the fault line which the champions of todays restructuring were unable to surmount in their 16 years in power.This showcases the grand irony, if not the grand conspiracy that the new champions and agitators for restructuring are the same members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their associates who ruled Nigeria for 16 years of our 4th republic.The painful irony is that they never devolved any power, never created more states, and more local government councils for the disadvantaged zones like the South East.The worst is that they did not only dislocate our economic substructure, but created the largest number of poor people in Africa and conversely the richest man in Africa. They squandered over $16 billion meant for the provision of electricity, which could have lifted millions out of poverty.The outcome of PDPs planlessness and squandermania is that our fault lines were widened, youths in general without employment, and glaring in our face today, is scant hope for the future of the greatest number of Nigerians.What must be done  the truth of the matter is that we must not be distracted by the PDP and their vile propaganda, as they are deliberately weaving duplicity into statecraft, by yelling restructuring, with 2019 general elections as their target.At the same time we must listen to the outrage of our compatriots over skewed appointments, though temporary and transient, if politically correct it breeds as the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria admonished, national cohesion, loyalty and national unity. We appeal as well that outstanding federal appointments should be distributed fairly and quickly to our members nationwide.While commending the APC for initiating the restructuring process, Okecuhkwu described it as the core height of the Art of Compromise, stressing for this we appeal to other political parties, specifically the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to embrace it.He declared that the Enugu State Chapter of the APC are in the league of those who agree that the federal government is over centralized, hence True Federalism is eminently provided in the Manifesto of our great party.Further more, we sincerely do not think that this public hearing will hold if APC is opposed to restructuring.The Enugu APC demanded for creation of Adada State as an additional state to bring the South East, at par with others. This will serve as the national consensus of equity and justice to the South East.We subscribe to Local Government Council Financial Autonomy, whereby amount standing to the credit of Local Government Council shall be paid directly from the Federation Account. Thus amending Section 162(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.To harvest the envisaged autonomy of the Local Government Councils and empower them to serve the people at the grassroot; we demand for the repeal of State Independent Electoral Commission, because the ugly history of elections conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission nationwide will defeat the intendment of the autonomy.We demand for the establishment of State Police, to enable the State Police to address the peculiar circumstances of each state. Therefore Section 214(1) of the 1999 Constitution should be amended.On fiscal federalism, revenue allocation, they proposed that Section 162(2) of our Constitution shall be amended to  Provided that the Principle of Derivation shall be constantly reflected in any approved formula as being not less than 20% of revenue accruing to the Federation Account directly from any natural resources.They backed presidential system of government, Independent Candidacy and subscribed to the convention of rotation at national, state and local government council areas.Similarly, speaking on behalf of Ebonyi State APC, Chief. Egwu Chima toed the line of their Enugu counterparts.They, however, disagreed on state police and restructuring, stressing that we dont want to go back to Egypt.Earlier, the Enugu State Chairman of the party, Dr Ben Nwoye has insisted that despite information in social media that Igbos want to secede, the Igbos want to be part of Nigeria and True Federalism.Nwoye called on the good people of Enugu State to participate actively in the meeting as well to submit their memoranda.He stated that the committee will offer platform for people to air their views on how the country could be restructured.
File photo

The Biafra question was never addressed after the war. Buhari must think long and hard about what the Igbo want, why they feel sidelined, and what he can do to make them feel part of Nigeria.

Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.  Albert Einstein

Whoever he is, the military officer who coined the code name Python Dance is a genius. Although an original version of the military operation, the Python Dance I, held between November 27 and December 27, 2016, no one should have looked any further than the code name to deduce the possible outcome of the armys latest incursion into the south-east. As a rebel scientist, Ill break this down.

PYTHON DANCE MORE THAN MERE NOMENCLATURE

Although they are a family of nonvenomous snakes, pythons, scientifically Pythonidae, can be extremely dangerous. They are some of the largest snakes in the world, and are notorious ambush predators in that they typically lay motionless to evade the notice of a passing prey but then suddenly strike when danger is least expected. Ordinarily, no one should tease the python  that is where Nnamdi Kanu and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) got it wrong. Even though it looks innocuous when motionless, a python cannot be active without inflicting harm  thats the misjudgement of the army, the thought that the operation would run without tension.

Prior to the take-off of the operation, the Nigerian Army acted like a python, listing a raft of harmless activities to cover up its one controversial aim of the operation. David Dawandi, a Major-General and Chief of Training and Operations of the army, said in a statement on September 8, that during the exercise, emphasis will be placed on raids, cordon-and-search operations, anti-kidnapping drills, road blocks, check points, patrols, and humanitarian relief activities such as medical outreach. Thats the motionless python. The statement also made it clear that there would be a show of force to curb the rising threat to national security in the south-eastern part of the country. A show of force? Thats a python in ambush mode. The summary is that it was an unnecessary operation. For many reasons.

NEEDLESS DANCE

Nnamdi Kanus court trial is ongoing. When he returns to court on October 17, the court will hear the federal governments application for the revocation of his bail. There is no chance Kanu will win that argument  unless Justice Binta Nyako, who granted him bail in April, wants to make a mockery of herself and the judiciary. Kanu has repeatedly violated his bail conditions, the most obvious being his prohibition from hanging out with a company of more than 10 or granting interviews. The violation of the latter Kanu has already tried to defend, bizarrely claiming that he doesnt grant interviews but he only answers the questions of journalists because it would be rude and arrogant of him to keep quiet when asked a question! But no such ingenious explanation exists for the former; there are numerous footages of him among scores and hordes of people, including videos of him preaching raw hate. Kanus return to prison will be permanent in October, so first question to the army; why roll out the pythons against a drowning adversary?

Read this also: SPOTTED: Military violated Terrorism Act 2013 by declaring IPOB 'terrorist group'

While the pythons were still dancing, the defence headquarters rushed to designate IPOB a terrorist group without even taking a moment to find out the procedures, as laid down by the same law they claim to be enforcing. The army erred by failing to follow the provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011, amended in 2013, that setting up or pursuing acts of terrorism, the judge in Chambers may on an application made by the Attorney General, National Security Adviser or Inspector General of Police on the approval of the President; declare any entity to be a proscribed organization and the notice should be published in official gazette.

Even that move itself is an overkill. Of course, Nnamdi Kanu is very annoying  I can imagine the Chief of Army Staff watching him in one of his numerous hate videos and itching to grab his throat and strangle him. There can be no arguments that he is unstable: how can a man who so passionately preached Nigerias unity under Goodluck Jonathan now so vehemently champion secession? But a more careful look at him will reveal his true nature: a mere radio/internet noisemaker elevated to the status of Biafra champion by a zealous and unlawful Muhammadu Buhari government. Kanu would never enjoy half his current popularity if he wasnt repeatedly denied bail. Kanu talks too much; die-hard rebels talk less and act more. His Biafra Security Service (BSS) is toothless; not one of the so-called trainees carried any sort of weapon. They, in fact, looked too confused to be able to withstand confrontation by a private, the lowest-ranked officer of the Nigerian army. Little wonder Kanu himself is now in hiding.

Read this also: Military designates IPOB 'terrorist organisation'

LESSONS AND QUESTIONS

The deployment of soldiers to the south-east has caused needless tension. The death of a hard-to-ascertain number of people, the assault on suspected IPOB members (which, by the way, will go unpunished despite the armys claim to be investigating it), the combing of buses by IPOB members in Aba for Hausa to harm, the Igbo-Hausa tension in Jos and Port Harcourt are all worrying scenarios that would have been avoided without military action. The seething inter-ethnic tension is worrisome; this is how wars start. In the past week, whether we admit it or not, Nigeria took one giant step towards a second Civil War. The good thing, though, is that the situation is still reasonably under control. To avert a total breakdown of law and order, our leaders must learn from our history and ask themselves the hard questions.

Speaking of lessons, it is hard to imagine how quickly our leaders have forgotten the role of military action in the escalation of Boko Haram from a nonviolent ideological group under Yusuf Mohammed to a ruthlessly violent one under Abubakar Shekau. The 2009 police crackdown on Boko Haram in Bauchi led to violence in Kano, Yobe and Borno states; and after Mohammeds capture by the military and extrajudicial execution by the police, the reins of Boko Haram fell on the bellicose, blood-thirsty Shekau. The rest, as they say, is history. It will take decades for the north to recover from the ruin of this insurgency  the deaths of hundreds of thousands, displacement of at least 3million people, the humanitarian crisis, the sheer destruction of flora and fauna, the physical and socioeconomic regression. So, even if the military succeeds in taking out Kanu, the Biafra mantle will naturally be transferred to someone else, who may even be more dangerous than kanu. Tact, not force, is what President Muhammadu Buhari needs to handle Kanu and the Biafra agitation.

There are two questions the government must answer if Nigeria must remain peaceful. Why, despite his apparent weakness of character, lack of purpose, unruly choice of words, does Kanu continue commanding huge youth following? And, why, after almost four decades post-Civil War, are we still discussing Biafra? I do not have all the answers, but Ill supply some.

First question: as I said earlier, Kanu is the number-one beneficiary of governments misuse of power. But more importantly, Kanus followers are mostly made up of unemployed or unprofitably employed, disillusioned youth who have finally found someone to identify with their struggles. For the second, it must mean that the Biafra question was never addressed after the war. Buhari must think long and hard about what the Igbo want, why they feel sidelined, and what he can do to make them feel part of Nigeria.

Otherwise, a legitimate Biafra question will be left in the hands of an opportunistic Kanu, and we will lose a golden opportunity to once and for all resolve our differences and strengthen the bond of our nationhood. Buhari should let the courts decide Kanus fate. He must jettison the use of force and embrace dialogue  because whether we like it or not, a million pythons cannot dance away the Biafra question!

About the Author:

Fisayo Soyombo, is the Editor of the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), tweets @fisayosoyombo
"He led a campaign to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja and later to Shanghai, the Chinese capital, to urge the Chinese government not to lend hands in helping Nigeria out of recession. Relentlessly, he led hate campaigns against the symbol of the Nigerian authority, President Muhammadu Buhari, wishing him dead, including hounding and haunting the President across the world, including on his sick bed, and threatening to expose the President on a life-support machine, all these in spite of swearing to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to be loyal to the Nigerian state and her President. He went further as reported in the media on May 25, 2017 that Ekiti State is now part of Biafra, which drew the ire of several Yoruba groups as reported in the media. Not done, while Nigerians and indeed the countrys leaders were celebrating Nigerias exit from recession, Fayose was the only governor across the country who dismissed the celebration as a ruse, maintaining that Nigeria was still in a deep economic mess even though in his state, he is the biggest stumbling block to the survival of Ekiti people by diverting all loans he took to pay workers salary to needless projects contracts awarded to his friends companies in which he allegedly has interest. His support for Kanu in funds mobilisation for his treasonable act and the activities of Fayoses media men in promoting the Biafran cause only point to one agenda to destabilise Nigeria and that has proved us right that Fayose has no agenda than the destabilisation of Nigeria to enable him to escape all illegal and criminal activities linked to him in recent past".



Ekiti state governor, Ayo Fayose, has reacted to allegations made by APC members in his state that he is one of those funding members of the now-outlawed secessionist group, IPOB.The party in a statement released by the state party publicity secretary Taiwo Olatunbosun over the weekend, said utterances made by Fayose in the past have proven that he is one of those funding the group. Part of the statement readsFayose, took to his twitter handle to react to the party's allegations. See his tweets below
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, on Monday evening, denied the reports that the military ever tagged the Indigenous Pe...

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, on Monday evening, denied the reports that the military ever tagged the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, a terrorist organisation.He said rather, what the army did was to make a pronouncement on IPOB which, according to him, was not a declaration per se. He said what the federal government is doing regarding the group is the right thing.Recall that few hours ago, the President of the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki had condemned the tagging of IPOB as terrorist organisation, saying it was unconstitutional. Saraki had also faulted the South-East governors for proscribing the activities of IPOB in the region. Recall that armys Director of Defence Information, Major General John Enenche, had pronounced that IPOB was a terrorist organisation after a reported clash between military personnel and IPOB members in Umuahia, Abia state.Enenche had, during the pronouncement, given the following reasons for tagging IPOB a terrorist organisation; According to him, After due professional analysis and recent developments, it has become expedient to notify the general public that the claim by IPOB actors that the organisation is non-violent is not true. Hence, the need to bring to public awareness the true and current state of IPOB.In this regard, some of their actions, clandestinely and actively, that have been terrorising the general public include: The formation of a Biafra Secret Service, claimed formation of Biafra National Guard, unauthorised blocking of public access roads and extortion of money from innocent civilians at illegal road blocks. Militant possession and use of weapons (stones, molotov cocktails, machetes and broken bottles, among others) on a military patrol on Sept. 10, 2017. Physical confrontation of troops by Nnamdi Kanu and other IPOB actors at a check point on Sept. 11, 2017 and also attempt to snatch their rifles.Attack by IPOB members on a military check point on Sept. 12, 2017, at Isialangwa, where one IPOB actor attempted to snatch a female soldiers rifle. From the foregoing, the Armed Forces of Nigeria wish to confirm to the general public that IPOB from all intent, plan and purpose as analysed, is a militant terrorist organisation.However, Buratai said the army did not categorize IPOB as terrorist organisation but that the Defence Headquarters just made a pronouncement. Buratai gave the statement while speaking during the official launch of Operation Python Dance II in Abakaliki. According to him, You have to get it very clear. First of all, what the Defence Headquarters did was to make pronouncement. It wasnt a declaration per se.But this has given room for the right step to be taken. I think the government is doing the right thing. It is not that we are overstepping our bounds.We are still within the limits. And I ensure you that what the military said was to set the ball rolling and to bring the awareness to the public that this is what this organization is all about. Im happy that the government has done the right thing right now.
At least 15 people were killed on Monday when suicide bombers attacked an aid distribution point in northeast Nigeria, in the latest susp...

At least 15 people were killed on Monday when suicide bombers attacked an aid distribution point in northeast Nigeria, in the latest suspected strike by Boko Haram insurgents against civilians.The blasts occurred in the Konduga area, about 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri, both of which have been repeatedly targeted by the jihadist group.On August 16, at least 28 people were killed and more than 80 injured when three female suicide bombers detonated their explosives outside a camp for displaced persons in Konduga.A rescue worker said the first blast on Monday happened at 11:10 am (1010 GMT) in the village of Mashalari. (It) killed 15 people and left 43 others injured, he told AFP.It happened during aid distribution by an NGO, when people had gathered to receive donations, he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.Twelve minutes later, another bomber struck, but luckily only she died.The rescue worker said both bombers were women but did not specify which NGO was distributing aid.Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force, a militia assisting the military with security against Boko Haram, confirmed the rescue workers account.We have dispatched our team to the scene, he said.Nigerias military and government maintain that Boko Haram is a spent force as a result of a sustained counter-insurgency campaign over the last two years.But continued attacks, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas of Borno, suggest claims of outright victory are premature.This month, jihadists fired a rocket-propelled grenade into a camp for the internally displaced near the border with Cameroon, killing seven.Amnesty International says Boko Haram attacks since April have killed nearly 400 people in Nigeria and Cameroon  double the figure of the previous five months.The UN childrens fund said last month that 83 children had been used as suicide bombers this year, four times as many as in all of 2016.AFP.
Asari Dokubo, former Niger Delta militant leader has said President Muhammadu Buharis government has planned to wipe out Ndigbo.

Asari Dokubo, former Niger Delta militant leader has said President Muhammadu Buharis government has planned to wipe out Ndigbo.

Dokubo in an interview with New Telegraph condemned the recent attacks on Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of Independent People of Biafra members (IPOB) in Abia state.





He said that the military is not trained to deal with civilians but trained to deal with their fellow military people.





He added that: ''The attack on Nnamdi Kanus house and people is very unfortunate and unprofessional. The Nigerian Army should not allow itself to be used or induced for such act. Naturally, the Army should not have been going around Kanus house.





''The military are not trained to deal with civilians. The military are trained to deal with their fellow military people and there is no country calls out its military except there is a serious threat to the territorial integrity of that country.





''The action is a precursor to a wider design by the government of the man Muhammadu Buhari has put in place to commit a great pogrom against Biafra, against us.





The former Niger Delta militant leader, however, said that he is not a supporter of Kanu because he is a Biafran and both of them are operating on different platforms.





According to him, ''I am not a supporter of Kanu. We are both Biafrans but operating on different platforms. We have different platforms.

''He has done more in the struggle for the actualization of Biafra than I have, because Radio Biafra has done more broadcasting the agitation than anyone else. But I am not his supporter because we started Biafran agitation long before Kanu''.
Fayose and Kanu The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Ayo Fayose of giving financial and ...

Fayose and Kanu

The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Ayo Fayose of giving financial and logistics support to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.The party urged the nations security agencies and the International Police (INTERPOL) to investigate the governors alleged support for IPOB, which the Nigerian military high command just declared a terrorist organisation following the seizure of weapons by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) suspected to belong to the group.In a statement yesterday by its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, Ekiti APC said Fayose demonstrated the seriousness of his support for the collapse of Nigeria when the governor released his telephone number and email address on April 27 to those interested in the Biafra cause to contact him.According to Olatunbosun, the telephone number and the email address Fayose released to the public for identifying with the Biafra struggle are: 070300000393 and email: mystory2006@yahoo.com.He described the governors action as a treasonable act.The partys spokesman said the governors lawyers statement at the weekend calling for dialogue to resolve the Biafran crisis is an afterthought.He said the Army was only performing its constitutional role of preserving the nations unity and bringing secessionists and their backers to justice.Olatunbosun said: On April 26 and as published by The Nigerian Tribune and its Tribuneonline publication on April 27, Fayose said he was working in conjunction with Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu to raise funds for Kanu, stressing that he was taking his support for Kanu beyond showing solidarity in court by raising funds that would be deposited in an account opened in Kanus name.He said: He led a campaign to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja and later to Beijing, the Chinese capital, to urge the Chinese government not to help Nigeria out of recession.Relentlessly, he led hate campaigns against the symbol of the Nigerian authority, President Muhammadu Buhari, wishing him dead, including hounding and haunting the President across the world, on his sick bed and threatening to expose the President on a life-support machine. All these were in spite of (Fayose) swearing to uphold the Constitution of Nigeria and to be loyal to the Nigerian state and its President.As reported in the media on May 25, he said: Ekiti State is now part of Biafra, which drew the ire of several Yoruba groupsOlatunbosun also quoted Fayose as saying: We are just driving the cause. As soon as we receive his account details, we will be made available. People have the right to agitate for independence. Even in traditional institution, people agitate for autonomy.As many as lawyers willing to fight the oppression should join the struggle for liberation from the oppression.He added: All the Southeast governors, including Ekweremadu, have opposed Kanu in his secessionist activities while Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has warned him and IPOB to stay away from Rivers. But Fayose declared Ekiti State as part of Biafra. This has confirmed the report that he is part of Biafras financiers as he had publicly declared to the media.No wonder, just four months after Fayose started mobilising funds for Biafra, thousands of deadly weapons, including military assault rifles, were smuggled into the country but were intercepted by Customs. It was also discovered that uniformed Biafran militants already have military training camps where they are planning deadly assaults on Nigeria after threatening its leaders.We had earlier alerted security agencies to the presence of armed gangs and stockpiling of arms in the Ekiti State Government House. Fayoses present activities at raising funds for Kanu confirm that he is part of a rebellion against the Nigerian state.We have always insisted that Fayose is a threat to Nigerias unity and the economic survival of its people.Olatunbosun added: His support for Kanu in funds mobilisation for his treasonable act and the activities of Fayoses media men in promoting the Biafran cause only point to one agenda to destabilise Nigeria. That has proved us right that Fayose has no agenda than the destabilisation of Nigeria to enable him escape all illegal and criminal activities linked to him.But Fayose dismissed the allegation of funding IPOB and its leader Nnamdi Kanu.Reacting last night while featuring on his monthly radio and television media chat: Meet Your Governor, he said: The APC is hallucinating by accusing him of giving financial and logistics support to the separatist group.The governor wondered why the states opposition was accusing him of sponsoring IPOB while he condemned the alleged killing of its members during what he called a military crackdown and occupation of the Southeast.Fayose said: We cannot all be cowed. The militarisation of Nigeria, being witnessed now, can only be likened to 1984 when Buhari was military Head of State.Killing people in the Southeast just because some people are agitating is wrong. I wonder why none of our so-called human rights activists is talking.
The Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, has expressed confidence that he would succeed Governor Abiola Ajimobi as Governor of Oyo State in 2019.News Agency of Nigeria reports that Shittu made the declaration when he spoke with newsmen in Ibadan after a meeting with members of the All Progressives Congress from Egbeda Local Government and Ajorosun Local Council Development Area of the state.The minister, who is a governorship aspirant, said he would take over from Ajimobi to improve on the good work already started.According to him, he is the most experienced of all the aspirants, having held several public offices and learnt politics from late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.I was a member of the State House of Assembly in 1979 and two-time commissioner in the state. I have also contested the governorship seat in the state twice before I became a minister.These are experiences you cannot buy. Oyo is advanced and sophisticated to be handled by inexperienced administrators, he said.Shittu dismissed the ongoing re-alignment in the Peoples Democratic Party, saying the party was a non-starter at the state and federal level.




Ekiti State Governor, Chief Ayodele Fayose, has said nobody can blackmail him over his criticism of Federal Governments handling of the agitation by Nnamdi Kanu and his followers in the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).He also stated that he will continue to speak out against injustice meted out to anybody or group in any part of the country.He said this on Sunday evening while featuring on a radio/television programme in Ado-Ekiti.In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Idowu Adelusi, on Monday, the governor said leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state who accused him of sponsoring IPOB were not only mischievous, but only embarked on cheap blackmail that failed woefully to achieve any result.We cannot all be cowed. The militarization of Nigeria, being witnessed now can only be likened to 1984 when General Muhammadu Buhari was military Head of State.Killing people in the Southeast just because some people are agitating is wrong and I wonder why none of our so-called human rights activists is talking.Herdsmen have sacked a whole community in this country, has anyone been arrested for all the killings by herdsmen?If because I am speaking against the wanton killings being done by the military in the Southeast, the APC is saying that Im funding IPOB, was I the one funding the people of Southern Kaduna when I condemned the killings there? Was I funding the Agatus in Benue State when I condemned their killings by Fulani herdsmen?Was I funding the Shiite Muslims when I condemned the killings of El-Zakzaky followers in Zaria?, he asked.On recent feat by the state in the education sector where it came first again in the National Examinations Council (NECO) exams, Fayose noted that the states investment and commitment in the sector were paying off.He opined that education was different from infrastructural development, and that whoever fails to invest in childrens education would end up wasting his life.In 2003 when I came the first time, I met education in a state of a shamble. We were number 35 in WAEC then and I strove to improve the situation before I was removed from office.If you dont put teachers in the drivers seat in education, the end result will be failure. We have accorded teachers their deserved respect and we do not meddle in their affairs. It is not our business who becomes NUT chairman.Every year, we celebrate Teachers Day with fanfare and reward best teachers with new cars. We have not come here to play politics with the education of our children and I want to assure that next year too, we will come first.My deputy that I have adopted as my successor is the one in charge of education and he has done well. I congratulate all of us in Ekiti, especially the teachers, for this feat and by the grace of God, we will sustain it, he assured.On the ongoing capital projects in the state, the governor said they would all be complete before he leaves office, adding that some would be inaugurated next month during the third anniversary of the administration.
Let me tell you what happened. You can go to the bank with it The five governors met with Nnamdi Kanu, asked him what his issues wi...
Junaid Mohammed who is a former lawmaker has said that the North should blame President Muhammadu Buhari if it does not get the presidency ...

Junaid Mohammed who is a former lawmaker has said that the North should blame President Muhammadu Buhari if it does not get the presidency in 2019.

The former lawmaker also spoke about Atiku Abubakars interest in the 2019 presidency saying he does not believe he has any integrity.





Junaid said Buhari did not tell anyone that he would contest in the 2019 elections and that even if he did, he was not certain of winning.





He said any attempt by President Buhari to rig the 2019 elections will be resisted by the north and the rest of Nigeria.





He said: Im not a member of any political party registered in Nigeria as of now. But to the extent that the Minister of Women Affairs spoke her mind, whether as a minister or not, I challenge those who want to challenge the minister to tell us where she went wrong.





As a matter of fact, President Buhari has told many people in the party and even those outside the party that he was going to do only one term. So, there is no reason for someone mentioning to him the reason not to run.





However, whether President Buhari said so in the past, or is saying it now or will say it in the future, his performance does not guarantee him an automatic ticket and even if he has an automatic ticket from his party, it is not a guarantee that he would win the next election.





And if he tries to rig the elections, there would be serious protest and violence even in the North and all over the country and the minister has alluded to that. He told people that he was only going to do one term, but if he has changed his mind, he should come out and say so.





He also spoke about Atikus presidential plan saying he does not have any integrity.





Also, some people do not like the idea of her mentioning who she was going to support in 2019. I have never supported Atiku in politics and I will never support him, because I dont believe he has the moral standing to be a leader.





"I dont believe he has integrity. But it is a choice between those who support Atiku, those who intends to support him and those who dont.





If the North does not get the presidency, they should blame President Buhari because of his performance. He has not performed and he is not performing and may likely not perform. The North is the least developed in the country.





"If anybody can bring justice to the North, he would be elected in 2019. So, if the president wants to be returned by the North and other Nigerians, he should perform," Junaid added.
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has praised Super Eagles forward Alex Iwobi for his hard-work in Arsenals 0-0 draw against Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.Iwobi who made his first league start, was a surprise pick ahead of Chile star Alexis Sanchez who started from the bench while Mesut Ozil was out due to injury.And after an impressive performance, Iwobi was later replaced by Mohamed Elneny with 10 minutes left.The former England international also Hails Danny Welbeck for his tireless efforts in the London derby at Stamford BridgeNeville commends the attitudes of both Iwobi and Welbeck noting that their disciplined performances were an example to both Sanchez and Ozil when they come back into the side.Arsene Wenger made a difference, Neville told Sky Sports.He chose attitude and hard work over talent. Granit Xhaka (L) partnered Aaron Ramsey (R) in Arsenals midfieldIwobi and Welbeck did what Ozil and Sanchez didnt do at Liverpool. They attached themselves to the two central midfielders. When I saw Xhaka and Ramsey in this team today, I thought they would get bulldozed in midfield, however, Iwobi tucked in, making Chelsea go wide and Welbeck did the same on the other side.Neville added: When you think about Ray Parlour and the job he did for Arsenal over the years, of course there would have been more talented players than him but he put in the hard work and showed the right attitude.In big matches at Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson went with Ji-sung Park and Darren Fletcher, why? Because they were the most talented players at the club? No, but because they needed to show discipline and respect for the opposition.Wenger chose a hard-working attitude over talent. They got into the shape and did the job that weve been demanding from them over the last few years.Its not difficult and ultimately that video should go to Ozil and Sanchez because they do need to come back in, but if they are not going to do the job required, sit in the stands and let two players with less talent do the job you need to do in a big match.Theres no excuse for any player not to work back into a defensive position. The only player I saw have that luxury in 20 years was Cristiano Ronaldo and in big matches he was shoved up front.However, he scored 40 goals a season and United were winning things. Thats when you can get away with it. Sanchez does normally work hard but Ozil now has no excuse not to get back into his position after seeing this game.What Arsenal did is show some respect at Stamford Bridge and they got the result because of that. I was delighted to see it because weve been crying out for it for many, many months.
The Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Prosecution, Okoi Obono-Obla has described as uniformed the argument that the mil...

The Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Prosecution, Okoi Obono-Obla has described as uniformed the argument that the military deployment in the South-east amounted to an invasion of the region.He argued that the President, by authorising such a deployment, acted within his powers as provided in the Constitution and was bound to do so in the face of the threat to national security constituted by the activities of members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).Obobo-Obla, in a statement yesterday, cited Section 8 (1  3) of the Armed Forces Act to justify the deployment. He added that the decision of the Federal Government was also supported by the provision of Section 217 of the Constitution, which allows the use of the armed forces in the face of insurrection and in aid of civil authorities to restore order.He said: It is axiomatic that Abia State constitutes part and parcel of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the President, Commanderin-Chief; President Muhammadu Buhari, has the power to deploy the Armed Forces to any part of the territory that constitutes the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to maintaining and securing public safety and public order.It follows that by Section 8 (3) of the Armed Forces Act, the President, in exercise of his powers to determine the operational use of the Armed Forces, direct that the deployment of any branch of the Armed Forces for the purpose of maintaining and securing public safety and public order.This is precisely what the President did when he deployed the Armed Forces to the Abia State of Nigeria to maintain and secure public safety and public order. Put differently, the President can, in certain circumstances, deployed the Armed Forces of Nigeria to perform police duties.Examples of the use of the Armed Forces to maintain law and order sometimes in this country abound; so why are detractors of the Federal Government suggesting that the deployment of the Armed Forces to Abia State or the South East region amounts to invasion?Citing the provisions of Section 217 subsections 2 (a) (b) (c) of the Constitution, Obono-Obla argued that grammatically or literarily or contextually the description or branding of the deployment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to Abia State to maintain public safety and public order as invasion, in the face of threat by IPOB, is absolutely wrong.The pertinent question is, what is an invasion? An invasion is a military offensive in which large parts of combatants of one geo-political entity aggressively enter territory controlled by another such entity, generally with the objective of either conquering, liberating or re-establishing control or authority over a territory, forcing the partition of a country, Obono-Obla said.
In 2017, children given birth to in 1970 would be 47 years old. These are people who were born at the end of the 1967  1970 civil war ...





In 2017, children given birth to in 1970 would be 47 years old. These are people who were born at the end of the 1967  1970 civil war that rocked the foundation of Nigeria, and grossly, the Igbo nation. To know the impact of the war, youd have to look at the psyche of the people.





From the period of the war to date that history and knowledge of the gory war escaped the classroom and the children grew into adults to only a one sided view of the war also created a mental slope, of what can pass as victimization and isolation of a single tribe for destruction. Of course, the Igbo people lost about 70 percent of the casualties of the war but it would not hurt to learn of the fate of the 30 percent from other parts of Nigeria, men and women who died on the field or in their homes when the war came to them.





This knowledge escaped students and as time passed by, there was a crop of young people who needed to understand the Biafran dream and how it applied to them as young men with as much energy as that of 1967. The next crops of people to look up to were the politicians. Sadly, the Igbo politicians could not sell a local cause  it was useless to want to share the Biafra dream to a political party formed by people from other ethnic groups and lose business partners. The headquarters of the parties were in Lagos and Abuja, non-Igbo territories and the tag that paid the bills was Nigeria, a larger concept. This forced them to abandon the locally believed valid discussion of the hunger of the people for an independent state to dust to help coat it.





One day, a man woke up to the realization of a vacuum. There was an earlier idea created by late General Odumegwu Ojukwu. It was beautiful but after its ill-fated journey during the three-year war, it was abandoned. He made an attempt to govern in a united Nigeria years later. And when he did not succeed, he was given a hero funeral in same Nigeria where he had fought to conquer. The nursed dream of Igbo youngsters whose dreams were to what the future held and to what it would be like to exist in a predominantly Igbo sphere looked toward Ralph Uwazuruike but his ideals were not rooted in the grassroots and though it flew a bit, it was coated in personal wants. He would later erect a palace in Owerri. He had made a fortune from championing a cause  his cause.





Nnamdi Kanu, an Igbo man in Britain also had done his groundwork and had seen the thirst of the people and a large place in their heart with a question mark. He studied the relics of the defunct Biafra to see how the era attempted the Biafra dream. He knew he would have to appeal to the grassroots and the carryover idea of radio propaganda became useful. It had callers chanting the forgotten war songs. It was the age of the Internet and it sold like hot cake. Donors came to its aids. He had found paradise. He advanced it with the promise of a military, a special underground force that would appeal to the not-so-peaceful agitators in the struggle. Donors came again with resources and he soared.





In midst of the fight for freedom, love came through. A beautiful, spotless young Igbo woman, young and brilliant bought into the ideas. And she bought into it with her heart. She fell in love with a brilliant man who was on his way to redeeming a rested dream. But the more she loved and visited Nigeria to verify facts, the more she realized that it might have been all made up  some scheme to survive. And oh, there was a discovery too that lover-boy had a family he hadnt been particularly transparent about. The relationship hit the rock and her royal fairness who had wished to sit side by side with the soon-to-be king lashed out and her hurts were translated as betrayal by loyalists of the new messiah who had started to worship this new king. Her video confessions were called government sponsored but her personal dream had mixed up with selfless services to motherland.





The government too had suppressed the teachings of balanced history in schools. The strategy had been a thing of common purpose amongst successive governments. Mr Kanu was arrested  a foul play. He turned to Judaism and they had played into the hands of the thriving youths who had received all that had been said as truths. And only truth could hurt so much that it would drive Nigeria berserk, so much that the guardian would want to be mimed. This created the hero status.





The Nigerian side could have identified the personal gains in the struggle and settled the leadership as usual  the Nigerian style. It happened with Niger Delta militants. They could have done the same with Kanu but he was just an ordinary man, perhaps. He had not come recommended, a highly respected act in the Nigerian political system. He had risen on the shoulders of louts and would die with time. But it was all false. Whatever the ordinary man bought was bought for good and taken seriously! He soared.





Today, Kanus brainchild has been tagged a terrorist organization. But it was born from the question of discussing the essence of the togetherness of the entity called Nigeria. If there were prompt and valid meetings and relevant measures taken, maybe it would have yielded a reform. Maybe schools would have known the true story of the war, its multifaceted nature and so on. But what runs here, as government, is allergic to common sense.





And of course, I know that Mr. Presidents foremost assignment is to protect an internationally recognized territory called Nigeria and disregard secession but leaders engage people and listen to debates. If someone avoided his own political debate, how could he permit such that was aimed at secession? But why cant someone raise an issue about his inclusion in a system that he considers hostile, though thats debatable? Why cant it spur conversations for developments? Why cant it serve as platforms to educate secessionist on the proper way to go about a struggle  of not insulting other people and referring to them as animals and the nation as zoo? Why cant there be less violence and more dialogue but again, these are legislators who scale fences, punch each other on national television, get to be called rapists in foreign countries when they visit, and those who attend conferences overseas without note pads and pens.





But again, farewell!

Bure-Bari Nwilo is the author of A Tiny Place Called Happiness. His recent book about recently turning thirty is available on Okadabooks. It is entitled On Becoming Thirty and the Gift of a Blue Sky.
The Armys Operation Python Dance II has taken off in Abia state.

The Armys Operation Python Dance II has taken off in Abia state.The take off in Umuahia the state capital, was at the 14 Brigade Tactical Headquarters. It was witnessed by heads of security agencies in the state including Director, Department of State Service, the Comptroller of Immigration, the Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp, the Special Adviser to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu on security and the Chief of Staff, and officers of the 14Brigade.It was learnt that the suspension of a road show was not unconnected with the announcement by Governor Ikpeazu and the outcome of Fridays Southeast Governors Forums meeting in Enugu with heads of security agencies in the region.The exercise was declared open by the Commander 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Abdul Khalifa Ibrahim on behalf of the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Major General Adamu Baba Abubakar.Ibrahim said the essence of the exercise was to tackle insecurity such as armed robbery, Kidnapping, cultism, banditry, oil bunkering and oil theft among others within Abia State and the 82 Division Area of coverage, adding that the exercise was also aimed at training the troops on how to handle equipment and also to use the training to promote Inter-agency cooperation and synergy.Soldiers were sighted at some locations in the state including Aba Central Mosque, Umuahia Central Mosque, Uratta Mosque along Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway among other locations.
The Nigerian Army on Sunday said Operation Python Dance, which is currently going on in the South-East, would be staged in the geopolitic...

The Nigerian Army on Sunday said Operation Python Dance, which is currently going on in the South-East, would be staged in the geopolitical zone every year.The Deputy Director, Public Relations 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Col. Sagir Musa, disclosed this in a statement entitled, The objectives of Exercise Egwu Eke 11 (Python Dance 11).The army spokesman insisted that the military campaign was not targeted at anybody or group.Musa said, Exercise Egwu Eke 11 (Python Dance 11) is now a scheduled Nigerian Army exercise to be conducted annually in the South-East region and is not targeted at any individual or group.Law abiding citizens need not to fear and are advised to freely go about their normal business.He explained that the first episode of the military operation, which held in 2016, was successful.The first exercise Python Dance was successfully and commendably conducted in the South-East from 27 November to 27 December, 2016.The peculiar security challenges in the region, such as kidnappings, abductions, violent secessionist agitations, armed robbery, farmers/herdsmen clashes, communal crises and an extra-ordinarily annual traffic gridlock at the Asaba-Onitsha bridge among others which are the focus and targets of the exercise were then successfully addressed, he said.Musa added that Operation Python Dance was designed to improve soldiers agility and preparedness.He said, The concept of the current exercise, like the previous one, is purely command post, field training and real-time exercise. It is aimed at enhancing troops agility and preparedness across the spectrum of contemporary and emerging security threats peculiar to the South-East geopolitical zone.The exercise is three in one in that it was deliberately designed as a command post exercise that transmuted into field training and where necessary, it can dovetail into real-time mission or activities such as anti-kidnapping drills, patrols, raids, cordon and search, check-points, road blocks and show of force.Musa, in the same vein, pointed out that Operation Python Dance was similar to other exercises designed by the Nigerian Army for other regions in the country.He said, Some of the successful exercises include, Operation AWATSE to tackle militants and oil installations vandals and illegal oil bunkering in the South-West, especially in the creeks between Lagos and Ogun states.Exercise Shirin Harbi, in addition to troops training, was also targetted at addressing restiveness, armed banditry and religious upheavals in the North-East, especially in Bauchi and Gombe states.Exercise Shirin Harbi is aimed at containing the reign of killers, armed robbery/banditry in Southern Kaduna.Exercise Harbin Kunama in the North-East was aimed at combating cattle rustling, armed robbery, banditry and religious insurrection in Sokoto, Kaduna and the Kano-Zamfara axis and Exercise Crocodile Smiles, which is popular in the South-South, was to deal with criminal elements engaged in the vandalism of oil pipelines and installations.Musa explained that other security agencies, and some para-military outfits, are also involved in the operation.He said, One interesting aspects of the exercise is that it is multi-agency in nature and execution.Relevant paramilitary organisations, such as elements of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, State Security Services and Federal Road Safety Commission are synergising and collaborating to ensure successful execution and attainment of outlined objectives.Also, the non-reliance on only Military Line of Operation to achieve the objectives of the exercise was part of the texture of the strategy.For this season, an elaborate generous Civil/Military Cooperation Line of Operation has been successfully planned and will be executed during this exercise.In this regard, some relevant Nigerian Army corps and services, such as the Medical Corps and Engineering Corps, will carry out free medical outreaches, roads and schools repairs, across the South-East geopolitical zone.However, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo has said that the decision of the Federal Government to send military to the South-East to stop agitations by the Independent Peoples of Biafra will not stop further agitations in the country.It particularly said that the decision of the Nigerian Army to commence Operation Python Dance in the region at this point in time was regrettable.It therefore called for immediate termination of the exercise.Ohanaeze stated this in a statement, which was signed by its President General, Chief John Nwodo, in Abuja on Sunday.He said this was part of the decisions reached at the meeting of the group , which was held in Enugu on Saturday night.Nwodo, a former minister of information said the military option is never a solution to problem of nation-building.We refer for instance to the goings on in Spain, Scotland and other parts of the world to reaffirm that only through dialogue can the national question be resolved. Consequently, we condemn all acts of violence in pursuance of freedom of expression. 
The police in Abia state have highlighted some of the crimes alleged to have been committed by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (...

The police in Abia state have highlighted some of the crimes alleged to have been committed by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) during the recent riots that took place in the state.

The police claimed that soldiers recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs from the house of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB.





Commissioner of Police for Abia, Mr. Anthony Ogbizi disclosed this while briefing the visiting Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Operations, Force Headquarters, Taiwo Lakanu, in Umuahia.





1. Petrol bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) recovered from Nnamdi Kanus house.





He said soldiers recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs from Nnamdi Kanus house.





2. Looting and burning of the Ariaria police divisional headquarters





The police said thirty IPOB members were arrested by soldiers in Isiala Ngwa area of the state, while the remaining seven are accused of having a hand in the Friday looting and burning of the Ariaria Police Divisional Headquarters.





3. Carted away three pump actions and other police materials after attacking a police officer.





Police Commissioner Anthony Ogbizi told visiting Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Operations, Force Headquarters Taiwo Lakanu that Ariaria station officer, an assistant superintendent of police was attacked by the arsonists





He said: They were armed with petrol bomb. They burnt police vehicles and carted away three pump actions and other police materials. Some officers were injured and in fact as Im talking to you, one of the injured police officer, an ASP is dead.





The doctors tried their best to save him, but they couldnt. Now, we have lost a soul. And you know what it takes to train a police officer. And you know the vacuum created. Once a police officer is gone, it takes a minimum of one year to train another."





4. Attack on law abiding citizens.





The police also accused the IPOB members of attacking law abiding citizens.





Simultaneously, they carried other attacks on law abiding citizens of this nation. You could see along the road the destruction of vehicles belonging to citizens. Certainly you cannot say that that is a peaceful demonstration. I think this attack was orchestrated to get arms which they succeeded in doing. Thank God the police succeeded in securing other arms. They attacked a bank may be with the intention to get more money to buy arms."





5. Confronting the military.





IPOB members were also accused of confronting the military.





IPOB, going to that extent, cannot say that it is a non-violent movement. While this one was happening here, along the road in Isiala Ngwa, the same IPOB members in droves confronted the military and the military were able to arrest up to 30 of them.





They will be prosecuted for rioting and unlawful assembly and other things. While that was going on, the same IPOB carried attack of various manner in Umuahia and even tried to collect a rifle from a female military officer. In the process, the military resisted and were able to arrest 19 of them."





6. Attack the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9





The police in Abia state also accused IPOB members of attacking the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9 and that of the commissioner of police.





At the same time, along the road leading to Umuahia, they set up bonfire attacking the police and innocent citizens and pulled out traffic stands. The vicinity where the attorney general of the state, assistant inspector general Zone 9, commissioner of police, and other residents live. They attacked the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9 and that of the commissioner of police.





7. Kanu's house was the attack base.





The police also alleged that Nnamdi kanu's house was the attack base for most of the mayhem unleashed by IPOB members on Abia state.





And the house of the self acclaimed leader of IPOB, Kanu was the house they usually come out from to carry out these attacks and information reaching us is that they have started gathering there. Many exhibits were recovered from there like petrol bomb and coat of arm of Biafra.





I know that 90% of Abians are not in support of this, but a few hoodlums and some others from other states operating under the disguise of IPOB with the motive to cripple the economy of Abia. If this is not planned, how could they come in droves to carry out these attacks? At a time, a mobile patrol vehicle was moving and IPOB members poured petrol on the van with intent to burn it. Imagine if that was successful. Im glad that eastern governors have proscribed the organisation."





8. Kanus father not in police net.

The police however denied the allegation by IPOB that security agents whisked away Kanus father and some members of the IPOB leaders family.





Ogbizi said: "We dont have Kanus father in police net.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has written President Muhammadu Buhari urging him to go the way of dialogue and call off the ongoing Operation Python Dance in South East to avoid the kind of tension that could degenerate to full-scale civil war.In calling for restraint on the part of the president, Senator Ekweremadu in the five-page letter urged the president to heed the advice of his security advisers who he said had urged the president to lessen tension in the Southeast through amending his policies to include the region in his appointments and infrastructure development plans.Ekweremadu, the highest elected political office holder from the Southeast nevertheless restated his full commitment to the territorial integrity of the country and the way of peace.In the letter entitled Rising Tension in the South East: Re: Appeal to Call Off Operation Egwu Eke and dated Thursday, 14th September, Ekweremadu said he was compelled by the rising tension in the South East occasioned by Operation Python Dance and the dangers to the nationhood inherent in it to appeal to the President to take immediate steps to avert another civil war in Nigeria.The five-page letter read in part: The peace of Nigeria has never been this fragile since the end of the civil war and as leaders we must do everything humanly possible and legitimate to hold the nation together in peace and prosperity.As President and Commander-in-Chief, you would agree with me that there is need for caution.Recall, Your Excellency, that the South East Caucus of the Senate met with you on November 9, 2016. We had a heart-to-heart discussion on pressing issues affecting the South East. Recall that on the issue of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, who was then in detention, we pleaded for your intervention and strongly advised against his continued detention. We were of the view that his continued detention would only further popularise, and in fact make him a hero.Furthermore, we informed you that when the leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, was detained during the administration of late President Umar Musa YarAdua, we approached the former President and appealed to him to immediately release Chief Uwazuruike to avoid creating a mountain out of a molehill. He heeded the advice and Chief Uwazuruike and MASSOB have never posed any threat to the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria ever after.I recall, however, that on the appeal for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, you told us to allow the judicial process to run its cause.But, in retrospect, it proved to be a big mistake on the side of government as his continued detention made him a hero among a cross-section of the people.I am afraid, Your Excellency, that the government is embarking on yet another huge misjudgment today by adopting a military option to the Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB challenge.Therefore, I most respectfully appeal to you to order the immediate withdrawal of the military from the South East as their presence can only and is indeed already amplifying tension in the region.Ekweremadu warned that reactions by the youths to military presence could be unpredictable and irrational, thereby triggering off other reactions in other parts of the country that could lead to a conflagration of crisis.As things stand, the reaction of the youth in the region is unpredictable. It is also possible that their reactions and actions of the military may be misrepresented or exaggerated on the social media and trigger a chain of other actions in other parts of the country also.Not even Your Excellency or anyone else for that matter can certainly foretell the outcome of such chain of actions, reactions, and reprisals. But at least, you are in a position to imagine the number of the avoidable casualties and deaths, he explained.Going further, he wrote:  Your Excellency, you were an active participant in the civil war. With the benefits of your age, experience, exposure and present position as the President of this great nation, I know you would not wish any part of Nigeria to go through that experience again.I appeal to you to use these benefits to avert any descent into the 1967  1970 experience. It is obvious to all of us that the wounds of that war are yet to heal. Therefore, as President, duty calls on you to not only ensure that the wounds fully heal, but also that they do not reoccur.By the provisions of Section 215 (3) of the 1999 Constitution on the powers of the President to deploy the police for the maintenance and securing of public safety and public order as well as Section 217 (2)(c) on the deployment of the armed forces to quell insurrection, I do not believe that the IPOB issue, as it is today, deserves military solution. We must objectively differentiate civil disobedience, displeasing as it is, from insurrection or mutiny.As a General, you would agree with me that the armed forces are not trained to contain civil disobedience or civil protest. Therefore, deploying soldiers in the present circumstance is like using fuel to quench candlelight. I am very worried that our armed forces that are already heavily stretched are being saddled with the responsibilities outside their primary constitutional duties. As a lawyer, let me most respectfully point out that the courts have severally frowned at the deployment of soldiers in circumstances as we presently have in the South East, describing it as totally unconstitutional.Besides, let us be mindful that it was the mishandling of the Boko Haram sect, especially the elimination of its leader, Mohammed Yusuf that escalated into the full-blown insurgency we have in the North East for many years now. That singular misadventure has led to wanton destruction of lives and property, Nigerians and foreigners alike, in the North East in particular and other parts of the country as well. It has affected both the Federal Government and the international community financially, with monumental resources that should have gone into development now channeled into containing the Boko Haram menace.Military option did not also work in the Niger Delta. It will certainly not work in the South East. As was the case in the Niger Delta, dialogue is the best option.With the benefit of the hindsight, therefore, it is my hope that you will heed my humble advice to withdraw the troops lest we unwittingly find ourselves in the same circumstance as we have in the North East.Ekweremadu, who is a strong proponent of a united, but restructured Nigeria, advised the President to follow up on the dialogue initiated by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, who met with South East leaders- the Governors, members of the National Assembly, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, clergy, traditional rulers, civil society, elder statesmen, and political leaders- in his capacity as the Acting President while the President was on medical leave overseas.He added: As a quick win, the position of these leaders was that the Federal Government should, in the meantime, do more in giving the South East a sense of belonging by addressing the palpable marginalization and exclusion of the region to diffuse the growing disenchantment with the Nigerian project and sentiments for Nnamdi Kanus position and message.Your Excellency would recall that it was exactly the same suggestion earlier adduced by the South East Senate Caucus during the November 2016 meeting with you. We especially appealed to you to address the total exclusion of the entire South East region in the headship and commanding heights of nations security agencies and organs. Although you promised to address this anomaly, this, regrettably, has not happened.Furthermore, I have it on good authority that the security chiefs also advised along the line of giving the South East a sense of belonging by way of appointments and infrastructural development. Regrettably, that advice is yet to be implemented.The lawmaker urged the President to reengage the South East leaders to find ways out of the imbroglio, noting that the South East leaders were every ready and also taking necessary step to curtail the tension in the land.Your Excellency, between 1967 and now is well over 50 years. As a seasoned soldier, you would agree with me that the character of war has changed dramatically. Therefore, the outcome of another war in any part of Nigeria, God forbid, will be unpredictable.By Gods grace, you are back and fully recovered now. I would like to advise that you meet with the leaders of the South East to continue with the dialogue as soon as you get the military deployed to the South East to return to their barracks.I speak for myself and other leaders of the South East that we will make ourselves available towards finding political solutions to the agitations in the region. In the meantime, be assured that the South East leaders are already taking the necessary steps to ensure that the situation does not escalate, he concluded.
Culled from Huffingtonpost.com The United Nations will live in infamy for lending its megaphone on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, to N...
The Indigenous People of Biafra on Monday said no amount of intimidation would make it surrender its fight for an independent Biafra nation.It described the proscription of the group by the South-East governors as well as its declaration as a terrorist organisation by the Defence Headquarters as a nullity.It maintained that only a referendum to determine a sovereign state of Biafra would assuage the group.In a statement made available to journalists in Awka, Anambra State by the groups Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, it wondered why herdsmen that had several times wreaked havoc in different parts of the country had not been declared a terrorist organisation.It accused the Federal Government of having a secret agenda to exterminate the Igbo race, adding that the Abia State Commissioner of Police was playing a rehashed script.The group said, We the family of Indigenous People of Biafra and its leadership worldwide under the command and leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu wish to place on record that the newly appointed Commissioner of Police posted to Abia State is trying very hard to please his Northern Arewa masters
The senator representing Kaduna central senatorial district, Senator Shehu Sani has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to open a new investig...

The senator representing Kaduna central senatorial district, Senator Shehu Sani has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to open a new investigation into the death of late President Umar YarAdua.

Senator Sani on his Facebook page said that Buhari should ensure that the real cause of YarAduas death is investigated without any delay.





The hitherto belief was that his death was as a result of a natural, terminal illness, recent revelations has proved otherwise. We must clear this fog of history. What killed President Umaru Yar'adua and who killed Umaru Yar'adua?
The Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has warned his political opponents of eminent danger if they decide to fight him.

The Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has warned his political opponents of eminent danger if they decide to fight him.

El-Rufai claimed that while late President Musa YarAdua fought him and ended up in the grave, the immediate past President, Goodluck Jonathan was voted out of power for doing same.





Speaking at the All Progressives Congress, APC, stakeholders meeting held at the Murtala Mohammed Square, Kaduna, he warned that he was ready to confront whoever tests his will as the leader of the party in the state.





The former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, however, urged all warring factions of the party to sheath their swords and unite for the development of the party in the state.





El-Rufai said, I had fought with two presidents. Umaru YarAdua ended in his grave, while President Goodluck Jonathan ended in Otueke.





Let us forget our differences and work for the development of the party. If you are not willing to stop the fight, you should know that I am a dogged fighter.





I implore you to tell me the wrong I did to you and I will apologize. But if it goes beyond today, I will never tender apology.





El-Rufai and the senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani are known to be at a loggerheads over political ideologies.





Watch video here








MAPLE SHADE -- Township police are asking for the public's help in finding a man who was last seen Tuesday.

Zevin Ward (Maple Shade police)

Zevin Ward, 36, was last seen in Maple Shade wearing a black T-shirt, red shorts and black and white sneakers, police said Sunday evening. Authorities described him in an alert as "endangered."

Ward is 6 foot, 4 inches tall and 240 pounds, police said.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about Ward's whereabouts to call them at 856-234-8300.

Luke Nozicka may be reached at lnozicka@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @lukenozicka.

Find NJ.com on Facebook.
JERSEY CITY -- A 30-year-old Jersey City man was sentenced to 25 years in prison Friday for making child pornography, officials said.

Last summer, Kirk D. Campbell, of Grant Avenue, pleaded guilty to counts of endangering the welfare of a child before Hudson County Superior Court Judge Martha Royster in Jersey City.

On Friday, Hudson County Superior Court Judge Martha Mainor sentenced him to 15 years on one count and 10 on the second, with the terms to run consecutively. He must also register as a sex offender and undergo life time supervision under Megan's Law.

In February 2015, Campbell was charged with fondling the genitalia and buttocks of two girls -- a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old -- and filming the acts on Oct. 18, 2014. That criminal complaint said police confiscated the video.

Near the end of 2015, Campbell was additionally charged with possession and distribution of videos and images "of a child engaged in a prohibited sexual act or in the simulation of such an act, specifically ... in his email account," the criminal complaint says.
TRENTON -- A man police charged with possessing a stolen handgun was released on monitoring conditions Monday during a court appearance.

Ismael J. Hernandez was arrested Sept. 12 after Trenton police observed him walking down South Cook Avenue wearing a baggy sweatshirt. One of the pockets appeared to be weighed down by a heavy object.

Officers saw Hernandez drop his cell phone behind a parked car while removing the hood of his sweatshirt and heard a "clanking sound" that resembled metal hitting the pavement, prosecutors said.

The officers approached Hernandez and he told the officers he had just dropped his phone. Police looked behind the parked car and found a loaded handgun, prosecutors said.

He was charged with receiving stolen property, hindering and weapons charges.

Mercer County Superior Court Judge Peter Warshaw released Hernandez on monitoring conditions due to his non-existent arrest record.

He's required to report to pre-trial services every week, commit no new offenses, possess no weapons and turn in his passport.

Olivia Rizzo may be reached at orizzo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @LivRizz. Find NJ.com on Facebook
Two New Jersey college students told police they were raped by on-duty police officers in Italy earlier this month while on a study-abroad trip, NYTimes.com reported.

The students, ages 19 and 21, say the sexual assault took place Sept. 7 in the Florence apartment building where they were staying, the report said.

The Carabinieri officers say the women consented to sex after being driven home from a nightclub following a night of drinking. Both cops, Pietro Costa, 31, and Marco Camuffo, 43, have been suspended from the force.

The report didn't name the school in New Jersey the women attend. They are taking classes at Istituto Lorenzo de Medici while in Italy, the report said. They arrived in late August to spend the semester, the report said.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
An Amber Alert issued for two children authorities say were abducted in Nassau County, N.Y. on Monday morning has been canceled after they were found safe.

An Amber Alert has been issued for Lovie Lee, center and Promise Lee, right.

Sun Shin, 31, kidnapped a 15-month-old boy and a 2-year-old girl around 6:45 a.m, New York State Police said in a statement early Monday.

Police didn't say where the children were found.

Last seen on 7th Street in Jericho, Long Island, the children were thought to be in "imminent danger," according to police.

Shin was driving a four-door 2015 white Honda Accord with New York license plate HCR1560.

Sun Shin, 31

The girl, Love Lee, is about 2 feet tall and 30 pounds. Promise Lee, the boy, weighs about 15 pounds and is 18 inches long.

Nassau County police didn't say if the children are relate or describe their relationship to Shin.

The Amber Alert extended to Westchester County, N.Y. New Jersey is not included as of 8:15 a.m.

UPDATE: The Nassau County Police Department is cancelling the AMBER Alert regarding Promise Lee and Love Lee. Children recovered safely.  NewYorkStatePolice (@nyspolice) September 18, 2017

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
The study looks at two smaller-scale projects that are in some ways predecessors to the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion, the $2 billion plan to slow land loss erasing Louisiana's coast. Construction on that project could begin as early as next year, while a similar one on the opposite side of the river known as the Mid-Breton Diversion could follow.
The head of the Omaha, Nebraska police unit in charge of bomb detonation has retired after fecal matter was found at the Omaha Public Safety Training Center.

Omaha Police Sgt. Matthew Manhart, who oversaw the departments bomb response unit, had been accused of depositing his own fecal matter where a manager at the training center would find it, according to three sources with knowledge of Manharts departure.

Reports varied on exactly where it was left, but it was in the open and not in a toilet, the sources said.

Manhart reportedly had continuing concerns over storage and care of the bomb squads equipment at the training center in Omaha, 11616 Rainwood Road.

Manhart, 49, retired recently, the sources said. That makes him eligible to collect all of his retirement benefits, including unused vacation and sick leave.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer recused himself from any decision-making in the personnel matter, said Lt. Darci Tierney, an Omaha Police Department spokeswoman.

Manhart and the police chief are longtime friends. Both were in the 1996 Omaha police recruiting class.

An officer who answered Manharts work cellphone said the sergeant has retired. Manhart did not return calls seeking comment.

Tierney said Omaha police would have no comment because its a personnel matter.

According to the sources, who spoke to The World-Herald on the condition of anonymity:

Manhart had been upset about storage of a trailer the bomb response unit used  and accused a facility worker of unplugging equipment that needed to be charged.

Manhart had been told to move the trailer to make room for other vehicles. The training center is used by Omaha police and firefighters, and members of the U.S. Army National Guard.

The incident involving fecal matter occurred this summer, after Manhart had battled over the equipment situation and been told to move the bomb squads trailer.

Omaha Police Sgt. John Wells, head of the Omaha police union, declined to comment. He said: As a matter of process, I do not comment on any administrative or personnel matter that has not been appealed.

A man retiring when he is eligible to retire? Wells said. I dont think thats newsworthy.
More than 100 cities across the country are reportedly vying for Amazon's second headquarters, a holy grail of economic development that would bring 50,000 high-paying corporate jobs and an estimated $5 billion in investment.

According to other news reports on the company's search, the online retailer has outgrown Seattle, occupying 19 percent of the office market there, more, by far, than any company in any city in the U.S. Chicago, Boston, Austin, Denver and New York City all are vying for the second headquarters of what Yahoo Finance says is the fourth-most valuable publicly traded company in the world, which will be a "full equal" of the original corporate headquarters in Seattle.

Gary is making a bid the city acknowledges is "far-fetched."

The city took out an ad in Monday's New York Times business section addressed directly to "Mr. Jeff Bezos, Chief Executive Officer - Amazon" making the case for Gary. It plans to follow up with a formal competitive bid, Gary spokeswoman LaLosa Burns said.

Making the pitch

"Recently, you announced that you were looking for a new community partner," the city government wrote in the ad. "Conventional wisdom says based on the qualications outlined in the RFP, I would not make the grade. But that is because you dont know about my natural assetsmy location 30 miles from Chicago at the population center of North America, three class one rail lines, an international airport, the port, a commuter rail line that get people to Chicago in less than an hour and four interstate highways in a state with a pro-business environment. And land? Jeff, I have all the land you need."

If Amazon were to locate its second corporate headquarters in Gary, it would need land to build since the smattering of high-rise buildings downtown have nowhere near enough office space to absorb Amazon, which occupies 8.1 million square feet of office space in Seattle. All of Lake County, and neighboring Porter County, only had about 226,026 square feet of available office space in January, according to Merrillville-based Commercial In-Sites.

Currently, the only Fortune 500 corporate headquarters located anywhere in Northwest Indiana is NiSource in Merrillville.

Amazon said it is seeking "a metropolitan area with more than one million people, a stable and business-friendly environment, urban or suburban locations with the potential to attract and retain strong technical talent and communities that think big and creatively when considering locations and real estate options." While Gary is part of the Chicago metropolitan area with a population of 9.4 million, the ongoing trend has been for large corporations like McDonald's, Hillshire Brands and Motorola Solutions to move their headquarters from the suburban fringes into downtown to draw more younger, millennial workers.

Gary acknowledges in the ad it may not be the apparent first choice for the biggest retailer in the United States by market capitalization.

"I know locating to me may seem far-fetched," the ad states. "But 'far-fetched' is what we do in America. It was far-fetched for 13 scrawny American colonies to succeed against the might of the British Empire. Far-fetched to land a man on the moon. Far-fetched for a business selling books out of a garage to succeed in business and philanthropy. Like Amazon, I am, once again, both a game changer and a unique opportunity. We can strike a mutually benecial deal that changes the course of my future as well as the families who live here. There are so many people who have counted you, me, us and the people of Gary out."

Indiana making bid

Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson listed both her email address and phone number in the ad, urging Bezos to reach out to her directly. In case Bezos, the owner of the rival Washington Post newspaper, didn't pick up today's New York Times, Freeman-Wilson also tweeted a copy of the ad to him.

The city spent $9,555 on the ad, which reached the New York Times' print audience of more than half a million readers across the country.

"There was thought given in regard to the Washington Post, but decided on the NY Times based on the business nature of the ad and coverage area," Burns said.

The state of Indiana is working on a competitive bid for the headquarters.

"Indiana has a tremendous opportunity to be seriously considered in this process. We are doing what Amazon has asked us to do: coordinating efforts with all interested regions of the state to put our best bid forward," Gov. Eric Holcomb said in a statement. "Ive called on the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to lead this collaborative effort that will culminate with a bid submission that includes local and state incentives as well as recommended best sites. Our process has been underway since the day Amazon made its intentions known, and Im glad that regional leaders are organizing their efforts so we submit the best package to Amazon by the Oct. 19 deadline."

National media has speculated Amazon, which is seeking major incentives, would likely seek out a large city with a deep pool of workforce talent and a major airport like Chicago, Toronto, Atlanta, Denver, Boston, New York City or Washington D.C., or a tech hub like Austin or Raleigh, North Carolina.
PORTAGE  Police have released a photo and a detailed description of a suspect as part of a plea for help in solving a Saturday night armed robbery at CVS Pharmacy.

The same suspect is also accused of pointing the handgun at a person outside a nearby assisted living facility but was unable to obtain money, according to police.

The suspect is described by police as male, with a small build, about 5 feet, 5 inches in height and weighing 125 pounds. He has dark eyes.

He was wearing black shoes, black pants and a black sweat shirt with a white design on the front, possibly of the rock band Korn, police said. He wore a red, white and black flannel hood with most of his face covered.

At 10:40 p.m. Saturday, the man entered the CVS store at Willowcreek and Lute roads, displayed the handgun and threatened the cashier, police said.

He fled to the east with an undetermined amount of cash, where he attempted to rob an employee of the Golden Living Center in the parking lot, according to police. That person told police they heard a "clicking sound" when the gun did not fire.

While the surveillance photo does not reveal the suspect's face, police are hoping someone may recognize him in conjunction with the physical description and the clothes he wore.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Portage Police Detective Mike Vaughan at 219-764-5705.
Six local attorneys have applied to step in as a replacement when Porter Superior Court Judge Bill Alexa retires from the bench Oct. 3.

The group includes Dolores R. Aylesworth, Jeffrey Clymer, Michael Drenth, Michael Fish, Brian Hurley and Douglas McMillan, according to Stephanie Wilson, press secretary for Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb.

The replacement for Alexa, a Democrat, will be appointed by Republican Holcomb, and there is no requirement that the successors be of the same party. Alexa's term expires at the end of 2018.

Alexa has said his successor will be taking a professional gamble, considering they will have to give up their legal practice to take over as judge and yet can expect to face challengers in next year's primary and general elections in an attempt to hold on to the seat.

Aylesworth, wife of state Rep. Michael Aylesworth, R-Hebron, made a failed run as a Republican for another Porter Superior Court seat in 2002, losing to Democrat David Chidester. Aylesworth had also worked as a full-time county public defender.

Clymer lists himself on his website as a trial attorney and maintains an office in Valparaiso.

Drenth is a deputy county prosecutor, who works across the hall from the court he hopes to preside over.

Fish is a bankruptcy and general practice attorney based in Valparaiso, according to his website.

Hurley is also based in Valparaiso and lists on his website practice areas as municipal and zoning, civil, criminal litigation, real estate, personal injury and employment law.

McMillan, of Valparaiso, specializes in self-defense law, wills and trusts, according to his website.

"Our legal team will continue work on the appointment in the weeks ahead," Wilson said. "There is no timeline for a decision at this point."

If an appointment is not made by Alexa's retirement date, he will be replaced temporarily by Judge Thomas Webber, who had retired from that seat nearly 15 years ago when Alexa took over.

Porter Superior Court Judge Julia Jent has also said she intends to step down after more than 20 years and with five years or more left on her term.
INDIANAPOLIS  It's taking the Gary Community School Corp. emergency manager longer than expected to get a handle on the district's finances, since none of the processes and technology commonly employed by large enterprises and most public school districts were used in Gary schools.

Peggy Hinckley, of MGT Consulting Group, last week said "total disarray" was the only way to describe the financial structure of the Lake County school district that the Indiana Distressed Unit Appeals Board appointed her to run six weeks ago.

"When I came there, the HR (Human Resources) Department did not have control of payroll or benefits. They were under someone else," Hinckley said. "We had no internal controls for anything, no payroll controls, no processes."

Portions of the district's finances still are managed using text files that have to be manually entered into a DOS-based computer system that dates back to the 1980s, said Eric Parish, MGT executive vice president.

"Just running a report can take a day or more, rather than a few clicks of a mouse," he said.

Parish noted that most other district financial records, when they exist, have been kept by hand, and there was nothing left to him resembling a comprehensive list of what is owed to whom and when.

"We don't have a plan to say, 'Here's the priority,'" Parish said. "It seems that just about every day, or every other day, something falls from the sky."

He said figuring out whom to pay on those days when the district has sufficient funds in its bank account is a matter first of meeting payroll, then balancing more than 20 court judgments against the school corporation with "who is screaming" among the district's vendors.

"It is, for lack of a better term, a shell game," Parish said.

Steps taken

Despite the financial chaos she inherited, Hinckley is confident that her team is rowing in the right direction to keep Gary's schools afloat.

The State Board of Finance on Tuesday is expected to approve a $3.11 million loan, requested by Hinckley and recommended by DUAB, that will enable the school corporation to retire a portion of its outstanding accounts payable, cover payroll through late October and invest in essential business equipment.

Parish indicated that the district likely would be paying significantly less for numerous services, including health insurance, if its vendors knew they would be paid on time  making on-time payment a key priority going forward.

His staff also is scouring the books to seek any "lost" money or opportunities to grow revenue in an effort to relieve some of the pressure on the district's general fund.

For example, the school corporation recently purchased new textbooks for all students using approximately $2 million in previously awarded federal funds that had to be spent by the end of the month or returned to the federal government.

"Had we not found that and taken advantage of it, that would be money lost," Parish said.

More challenges

Sorting out the district's payroll is another of Hinckley's top priorities.

She recently explained to DUAB that there was no payroll roster when she took over Aug. 1, and it's been a struggle to figure out who is working for the district, when they're getting paid and from which account.

"We have heard from people here that we have ghost employment. But you have to prove that," Hinckley said. "With every payroll we're getting a better handle, and we think we're close to getting that roster in place."

She said the payroll situation is complicated by a state law that allows reductions in force, that is, layoffs, only during the spring semester.

So even though Gary schools are projected to have some 500 fewer students compared to last year, which translates to a loss of $4 million in state funding, the district cannot reduce its staff despite the state's taking away some of the money needed to pay them.

"Our hands are somewhat tied, because statutes prevent us from taking bolder action," she said.

Prior to being supplanted by Hinckley under Senate Enrolled Act 567, the Gary school board trustees could have taken more aggressive steps to maintain a balanced budget and put in place standard financial processes and procedures.

Instead, the district's chief financial officer post was left vacant for long stretches of time. Also, many reform recommendations by state-appointed financial consultant Jack Martin were ignored, and examinations by the State Board of Accounts repeatedly found an abundance of unaddressed financial deficiencies.

In 2015, State Auditor Paul Joyce, a DUAB member, wondered whether the district even could continue functioning much longer.

"The deficit cash balances of the school corporation, as well as the school corporation's procedures performed to operate without addressing the root causes of the deficits, raises substantial doubt about the school corporation's ability to continue as a going concern," Joyce said at the time.

The first-of-its-kind state takeover of the district seems to have answered that question.

Nevertheless, Hinckley remains optimistic that she will meet DUAB's Dec. 31 deadline to devise an effective strategic plan that will carry the district forward, despite what she described as a "daunting task" ahead.

"We have found many, many people in Gary that want to find solutions, that want to see the school corporation improve," she said. "As we get our hands around things, we continue to try to work toward those solutions."
MICHIGAN CITY  A leaky fuel tank is suspected as the possible cause of a barge explosion strong enough to injure all three people aboard.

Investigators Monday were still not certain whether it was fuel or vapors that may have escaped from the tank and into the hull of the 24-foot-long vessel.

What caused Friday's blast also remained undetermined.

The most seriously injured were Michigan City Port Authority Harbormaster Tim Frame and a co-worker, Alden Hopper, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Frame, 55, had a fractured lower left leg. Hopper, 65, had a possible broken right foot and leg, along with a severe laceration to his left toe, chest pain and injuries to his left arm and back, according to DNR Conservation Officer Shawn Brown. Another Port Authority employee, Daniel Hoepf, 34, had a small laceration and soreness to his left elbow.

Hopper and Frame were still in the hospital as of Monday, Brown said.

According to U.S. Coast Guard officials, the blast occurred when the men were returning from the beach at Washington Park. They had removed some of the buoys that mark the designated swimming area during the summer.

The impact was powerful enough to bulge much of the vessels thick, flat-metal bottom, which caused the barge to lose stability and roll onto its side.

"It wouldnt take much fuel or fumes to do what it did," Brown said.

Brown said a spark igniting the fuel or vapors could have come from many sources, like metal parts rubbing on the boat or from a battery cable.

Another possible ignition source was a current from an exposed electrical wire.

U.S Coast Guard Petty Officer Jason Lee said the explosion happened just when the barge's electronic devices were turned on for the crew to radio for the Franklin Street drawbridge to open.

The barge was carrying a crane tall enough that it couldn't safely pass underneath the lowered drawbridge.

Booms were set out to contain a small amount of fuel and transmission fluid, Lee said.
PORTER  The two dozen participants in the Quantum Leap field trip to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore got an eyeful of one of the nations top natural wonders. They also got to see what pioneering ecological biologist Henry Chandler Cowles saw decades earlier.

Sponsored by Indiana Humanities, this field trip enabled participants to consider how Cowles notion of the interconnectedness of all living things has shaped not only science but also humanities' thinking over the past century.

Leah Nahmias, director of programs for Indiana Humanities, noted that while many view the Indiana Dunes for recreation and artistic expression, it is one of Indianas most significant laboratories.

Cowles, a University of Chicago professor, proved the theory of ecological succession  the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time  through his research along the dunes in the late 19th century.

While Quantum Leap participants did not bring any microscopes or collect samples, they made some discoveries, including one vestige of the past  rails from the railroad era for sand-mining cars in the dunes.

This is a very unique and valuable landscape, said Krista Bailey, director of the Center for a Sustainable Future at Indiana University at South Bend.

Bailey, a facilitator for the 2-mile trail hike, hoped participants left inspired by the incredible diversity of the Indiana Dunes and that they consider the lakeshore scientifically, spiritually and poetically.

Park Ranger Wendy Smith, who also addressed the group, said the sight of industries along the lakeshore may seem terrible, but for her those factories serve as a reminder of how precious this place is and how grateful I am that they preserved this area.

Despite sand mining in the 1930s, hikers witnessed dunes preservation through the presence of such plant life as the prickly pear cactus, the purple blazing star flowers, reddish rose hips and the endangered pitcher thistle.

Other flora spotted along the trails included Jack pines, cottonwood, arctic bearberries and Eastern red cedar. Smith noted that the Indiana Dunes is home to 20 endangered species of plant life.

Smith added that the Indiana Dunes continues to be a source of scientific research, including a study of the effects of a warming climate on amphibious animal life.

Rose Halpin, a librarian from Chesterton, was attending her third Indiana Humanities program. This is an incredible phenomenon, she said of the Indiana Dunes. This was more than just a regular hike.

Karyn Witt, also from Chesterton, added, Even though this is in our backyard, we dont know all there is here.

Valparaiso resident Beverly Caldwell, who lives near the Indiana Dunes, said the hike afforded her just a greater appreciation of how fragile our ecosystem is.
VALPARAISO  Robert Cotton, the City Council's first minority representative, got the backing of a number of residents on an anti-hate resolution he wants read.

The backing, which came from a number of residents who spoke on the behalf of the need for the resolution, came at the end of a City Council meeting last week.

"This is a local issue as much as a national issue," resident Brian Porter said.

Resident Ivan Bodensteiner, a former Valparaiso University professor, said the city has made progress but still has retained the image of a segregated community when it comes to hiring professionals who are minorities.

"Anything we can do will serve us well," Bodensteiner said.

Many residents in attendance, including Ken Hough, said Valparaiso has had a history of being segregated and racist dating back to the mid-1960s when he moved with his family to the community.

"We came from Philadelphia, which had integrated neighborhoods. We didn't have them here," Hough said.

The anti-hate resolution, which will be read at the Sept. 25 City Council meeting, was authored by Cotton in response to the white nationalist rally in mid-August in Charlottesville, Virginia.

"I just think this is a tremendous opportunity for Valparaiso to change the paradigm," Cotton said.

The resolution, in its four points, is as follows: "The council repudiates and condemns white supremacists, Neo-Nazis, the Ku Klux Klan and any other group that espouses hate and seeks to undermine the very ideals of who we are as Americans; condemns the acts of violence in Charlottesville as domestic terrorism; celebrates the diversity of our city, state and nation and condemns those who seek to spread hate and division while attacking the foundational values of our city, state and nation."

Cotton, the first African-American to serve on the City Council when elected nearly two years ago, said he has been trying to have the anti-hate resolution read at the last two City Council meetings, one of which was canceled.

At the most recent meeting, Cotton once again pushed to have the resolution placed on the agenda.

Mayor Jon Costas challenged the placement of the resolution on the future agenda, saying its contents dealt with a national issue rather than a local issue.

"None wouldn't agree with the resolution, but lots of reprehensible things happen and we can't make a statement on everything," Costas said.

Instead, city officials in Valparaiso strive to work on local issues such as paving streets, Costas said.

City Councilman John Bowker, R-5th, and Councilwoman Lenore Hoffman, R-4th, both argued against the reading of the resolution at future meetings and sided with the mayor.

"It's not germane to the City Council and I have no intention to support it," Bowker said.

Resident Christopher Pupillo, addressing the Republican council members who voted against reading the resolution, said racism is very much alive in Valparaiso to this day.

"If you don't think that denouncing it is important then you are sadly mistaken," Pupillo said.
President Trump met with the Israeli prime minister and the French president Monday ahead of Tuesday's UN General Assembly.



Tuesday, Trump is slated to give his first address to the General Assembly. Monday, the president first attended a forum with U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley, and he called for reform within the international organization.



Trump also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about former president Obama's Nuclear Deal with Iran.

Trump said he will make a decision on whether to stay in the deal.

"You'll be seeing very soon," Trump told members of the media. "We're talking about plans constantly."

Trump also met with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss North Korea's nuclear program and ballistic missile tests.



This is the president's third visit to the city since his inauguration.



Be on the lookout for street closures in Manhattan, some of which are specific to the president. Many others are in effect throughout the UN event.

The NYPD and Secret Service are out in full force around Trump Tower, with security vehicles lining Fifth Ave.

There were street closures Sunday when the president's motorcade arrived. More are planned for the rest of the week, mostly on the East Side.

First Ave. is closed from 42nd to 48th streets.

And 44th, 45th, and 46th Streets are closed between First and Second avenues.

The FDR Drive will be subject to intermittent closures.

Other streets around Manhattan have managed access and no parking.

If you have to go to the East Side, your best bet is to use mass transit.
Record Number of Black Candidates Seeking History During Midterm Elections

While some already are household names like Stacey Abrams in Georgia, Val Demings in Florida, and Anthony Brown in Maryland, others like Natalie James in Arkansas, Will Boyd in Alabama,...

Tell the Supreme Court: We Still Need Affirmative Action

One of the great joys of my life is teaching. Im fortunate to teach classes on social justice at the University of Pennsylvania, one of the most respected schools in...
AIA Group and Zurich Insurance have lobbed bids to buy Commonwealth Banks life insurance businesses.The companies put in final and biding offers last week, which could value New Zealand Sovereign business and Australian CommInsure at more than $4 billion, according to a report fromCBA is expected to select its preferred bidder this week, since the major bank expects a speedy resolution, the report said.AIA is most likely to buy the Australian assets, while Zurich might be stuck with the process to buy both  CBA wants a deal for both CommInsure and Sovereign.said US life insurance giant MetLife has expressed interest in the NZ assets but was late to the sales process and pulled out to centre its focus on ANZ s life business.MetLife has reportedly locked in the funding for its bid to buy ANZs life business as the sales process headed towards a finale.At least one Chinese party also showed interest in the ANZs assets, but its initial approach was knocked back because the bank wanted a buyer with experience in wealth management, The Australian said.
Kiwis celebrate royal result at Flemington

Humidors stunning victory in the Gr.1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) provided his New Zealand connections with a result to savour.

Youve got to make the most of it, you never know when the next one will come along, Aucklander John Carter said.

Humidor Photo: Darryl Sherer

He shares in the ownership of the five-year-old with his brother Mark and their sister Rachael, the siblings having bred Humidor from the Zabeel mare Zalika under their Jomara Bloodstock banner.

Zalikas got a Makfi yearling and hell be going to the sales and shes in foal to Shooting To Win, Carter said.

If she has a filly well be keeping her - we had one by General Nediym, Marechal, and sold her for $20,000. She later sold on the Gold Coast for $A265,000 so we didnt get that right.

Humidor won four races, including the Gr.3 Manawatu Challenge Stakes (2000m), from the Otaki stable of Johno Benner and Hollie Wynyard before clients of top Victorian trainer Darren Weir purchased a 50 per cent interest.

The Teofilo geldings success at Flemington on Saturday came as a pleasant surprise and one thats now made him a $5 favourite for the Gr.1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) and second fancy at $13 for the Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m).

We werent expecting it and Darren thought he would be more of a winning chance at his next start, Carter said.

Ive got no idea where that will be, its all up to Darren, but the Caulfield Cup is his main goal.

Weir said Humidor is likely to head next to the Gr.1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) at Flemington on October 7.  NZ Racing Desk.
Two Tiger Transit employees were arrested Saturday on charges related to a Friday night sexual assault of an 18-year-old woman on a Tiger Transit bus, according to the Auburn Police Division.

Meanwhile, as a result of the incident, Auburn University officials are reviewing the school's relationship with the parent company that operates the transit service.

The incident occurred during Auburn University's busy homecoming weekend, in which hundreds of riders depended on Tiger Transit for local transportation.

Tony Martin Patillo, 51, of Columbus, Ga., and James Don Johnson Jr., 32, of Auburn, were arrested and each charged with first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy.

Patillo was charged with four counts of public lewdness when first arrested, and the other charges were added later.

The initial charges stem from an incident that occurred at about 11:50 Friday night when Auburn police were informed about a male exposing himself while standing over a female in the 700th block of Aspen Heights Lane.

Officers arrested Patillo after finding him near the roadway and took him to the Lee County Jail.

After further investigation, officers determined that the victim, an 18-year-old female who seemed incapacitated, had been sexually assaulted by Patillo while aboard the bus.

The victim had entered the bus near Magnolia Avenue, and Johnson, who was driving the bus, "engaged in actions to perpetuate the crime while Patillo was in the rear of the bus assaulting the victim," according to a police statement.

Patillo afterward exited the bus with the victim near Aspen Heights Lane and was seen standing over the victim by passersby.

Although unable to find the victim at the time of Patillos arrest, officers later identified, contacted and interviewed her.

Arrest warrants for the charges of first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy were then obtained for Patillo and Johnson.

Patillo was charged while in the Lee County Jail and is being held on a $127,000 bond.

Johnson was arrested at his residence and is being held at the Lee County Jail on a $125,000 bond.

Tiger Transit is a subsidiary of First Transit, Inc., which is contracted by the university.

"Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, First Transit operates in 242 locations, carrying more than 300 million passengers annually throughout the United States in 39 states, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and 4 Canadian provinces," First Transit's website states.

"Each day, our managers address the complexities in todays challenging political, economic, social, and operational environments," it says.

Auburn released a statement on Monday regarding the incident:

"Auburn University is working with the City of Auburn Police Division in their investigation.

"Our top concern is the well-being of the victim, and we cannot stress in strong enough terms our shock and distress over this despicable act. We immediately provided support and all available resources to the victim and continue to do so.

"The suspects were employees of First Transit, the contractor hired by Auburn to provide late night transportation service for students. The contractor is required to conduct thorough background checks on its employees and has terminated the employment of both suspects.

"We are evaluating the future of the universitys relationship with First Transit.

"As this is the subject of an ongoing investigation, further questions should be directed to the Auburn Police Division.

Officers are still investigating the crime and ask that anyone with information call detectives at 334-501-3140 or the 24-hour non-emergency personnel at 334-501-3100. Anonymous tips can also be provided at 334-246-1391.

Staff writer Kara Coleman contributed to this report.
After a long meeting on Friday, cabinet publicly declared its full backing for ruling party MPs pushing a bill to scrap the constitutional presidential age limit.

For long spoken about in roundabout fashion, it has rapidly become official policy to support a design whose effect will be to extend President Musevenis three-decade grip on state power beyond the current 75-year cap.

He will be 77 at the next election in 2021. Insider sources say that by the time Ruth Nankabirwa, the government chief whip, ended her briefing on the proposed private members bill, she was preaching to the converted.

It did not matter that it had stoked opposition fires, with angry denunciations of life presidency ambitions burning across social media. Her delivery was inside the Cabinet boardroom on floor 9, Office of the President.

Ruth Nankabirwa (kneeling) greeting PM Ruhakana Rugunda as First Deputy PM Moses Ali looks on earlier this year

I told the meeting about the ongoing mobilisation by different groups of MPs on a proposal to amend the Constitution, and that one of the groups convened a big meeting, which was attended by some ministers although that meeting was not formally called by the government chief whip, Nankabirwa said by telephone on Saturday.

She laid down for colleagues the build-up of events to last Tuesdays surprise informal resolution by NRM MPs. She agreed with the MPs argument that the government has dithered in presenting a bill for comprehensive electoral reforms.

We said we should not antagonise the private members bill but I am going to look at their resolution to see if it has financial implications, Nankabirwa told The Observer.

Ruling on a petition following the disputed 2016 presidential election, the Supreme court set a two-year time frame for these reforms. It is probably in this context that Nankabirwa broached the subject.

I wanted to know whether government is going to constitute the Constitutional Review Commission, she said, because MPs dont wish to handle the amendments in the last quarter of parliament.

Justice and Constitutional Affairs minister, Kahinda Otafiire, through whose docket the reforms are expected, yesterday said he sees no contradiction.

The two are complementary, they are not parallel. If members of parliament want to bring a private members bill, its their choice. There is nothing that compels them to follow what we are doing if we are slow and they want that law much earlier, he said

Its their right but that wont stop us from bringing a comprehensive bill and the constitution review commission that will also find its way to parliament. Parliament makes laws and is at liberty to choose what to discuss and when to discuss it.

After Nankabirwa, Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda is said to have asked minister of State for Investment and Privatization, Evelyn Anite, to clarify what she meant by recent comments about the army supporting NRM. A belligerent Anite had on Thursday said they wont be intimidated by their opponents.

I want to make it very clear to them [opponents of the bill] again that you cannot intimidate a ruling party. Because if you go looking for support, we dont go looking for support. Were the party in government. We have the support of the magye [army]..., Anite said.

Sources say Anite seemed to reverse herself on Friday, telling cabinet that she was quoted out of context. The junior minister reportedly said she intended to mean that security agencies will, in exercise of their mandate, not allow anyone to threaten violence.

Ugandas armed forces are enjoined by the Constitution to be neutral, non-partisan institutions of state. Anites bungling notwithstanding, ministers remained united.

The general sentiment was that we need to handle it now and get it out of the way, sources said.

Reportedly vocal were Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde, the minister for Security; Maj Bright Rwamirama (state for Veteran Affairs) and Anite.

Almost everyone talked and they kept repeating one another that we should support the private members bill, the sources said.

Dr Rugunda gave the chairmans seal of approval, saying: We should fully support it; it is already on table. We should just conclude it and get it out of the way other than leaving it in the public domain for many years.

Shortly, minister for ICT and Information Frank Tumwebaze was directed to announce cabinets decision through mainstream and social media.

Moving a private members bill is a right of any member of parliament and the executive can only put up an objection if that proposed bill has financial implications that distort the national budget priorities as envisaged under Article 93 of the constitution, Tumwebaze said at the weeks end.

The executive can also object to a private members bill if its unconstitutional or is seeking to reverse any government policy. Without those, the executive cant object to any proposed private members bill. The merits and demerits of it will be discussed by parliament if tabled, he added.

President Museveni was not in cabinet on Friday but is understood to have met some promoters of the bill a day after Tuesdays surprise developments.

In attendance at State House last Wednesday were Peter Ogwang (Usuk), Robinah Nabbanja (Kakumiro Woman), Arinaitwe Rwakajara (Workers) as well as former Forum for Democratic Change deputy treasurer Anita Among (Bukedea Woman) and Michael Tusiime (Mbarara Municipality).

This gathering convened shortly before Musevenis live media appearance to discuss the contentious Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2017, on land.

A source said the MPs gave him a progress report and plan of action. Museveni reportedly encouraged them, later affirming this on air where he maintained that these MPs were acting as volunteers within their constitutional rights.

At the Tuesday meeting, some members expressed the need to move quickly, possibly even pressing parliament to waive its rules on how long bills are scrutinised in committee.

Nankabirwa reflected this tone, telling The Observer: I am waiting for the notification; so, that I can call a caucus meeting maybe by Wednesday in accordance with the NRM caucus rules of procedure.



sadabkk@observer.ug
As ruling party members of parliament seeking to abolish the upper age limit continue their push to amend the constitution accordingly, cracks have surfaced in the movement with some members who signed up in favour of a private members bill withdrawing their support.

On Tuesday, September 12, a big group of NRM MPs told journalists that at least 277 MPs had signed up to support the draft legislation that aims to remove article 102(b) from the constitution.

But in separate interviews at the weekend, some MPs claimed they were conned into attending the meeting at the Parliamentary Conference hall, and signing for the resolution.

Some said they were called by telephone while others said they were found in the corridors of parliament by colleagues and nudged to attend last Tuesdays meeting.

Ministers Arinaitwe Rwakajara, Adolf Mwesigye and Evelyn Anite address the media after the NRM meeting last week

I was going to attend a Natural Resources committee meeting when a colleague I sit with on that committee told me, first come and we check out the conference hall; the parliamentary commissioners need us for a few minutes then we proceed to that the committee meeting, Manjiya MP John Baptist Nambeshe said.

My colleague didnt allow me to ask questions, he only told me to hurry and I followed him to the conference hall where we were given a form to register our names, but I didnt know what the meeting was about, Nambeshe added.

He said he filled the registration form thinking it was the normal attendance register for meetings, only for the conveners of that meeting to turn around and claim that everyone on the list was a supporter of the removal of presidential age limits.

Kitagwenda MP Abas Agaba similarly told The Observer on Friday that he was dragged to that meeting by a friend.

There are many other colleagues who feel Tuesdays stage-managed meeting was not good and it was not in good faith.

We should have been informed about the agenda and prepare for the meeting, Agaba said.

I signed the attendance form like we normally do. Then as I sat I realized the discussions were different; I walked out. Later, I came to understand that our appended signatures were [taken to be in support] of the age limit removal. This was not right and I am not part of that group; it was a group of vigilantes with personal interests, the Kitagwenda MP added.

Mawokota South MP John Bosco Lubyayi has a similar tale.

He said he was called by a colleague who told him that commissioners needed to meet them for 30 minutes in the conference hall.

When I entered, I signed the attendance list, which had a very good heading, consultative meeting on constitutional amendments. It was not specific on the 75-year age limit. So, I sat and they introduced the removal of the 75-year age cap from the constitution; all of a sudden they called in the press and said we had resolved to remove the age limit from the constitution without listening to our views, Lubyayi said.

I think we have had enough of one president and this is the only way we can get a new president. Im not against my chairman but I feel we need another president. After 75 years, the best thing is for the president to rest and we get another one.

NRM supporters meeting to pass the resolution to amend the Constitution

Lubyayi was part of the original group of MPs that supported the age limit removal only to change his mind.

I am already committed to what my people told me. I consulted them and they told me that I should not accept any amendments to the age limit and on land, Lubyayi said.

Luuka South MP Stephen Kisa said it would be proper to extend the five-year term to seven but restore the two-term limit that was scrapped in 2005. He said two terms are enough for any president to implement his or her programmes.

I only want term limits restored and the five-year term changed to seven years if any amendment is to be made to the constitution, he said.

We cannot give a framework free of any restriction, no age limit, no term limits; no, no, no; that is my stand, Kisa said.

According to Robinah Nabbanja (Kakumiro Woman MP), a key promoter of the private members bill to be moved by Igara West MP Raphael Magyezi next week, only two MPs; Monicah Amoding (Kumi Woman) and John Baptist Nambeshe (Manjiya) have formally asked that their names be removed from the list of the bills supporters.

I dont see any problem with them [wanting out]; in any case today [Saturday], I have even got 11 more signatures. These are old people who are members of parliament; so, they cant say they didnt know why they had been called, Nabbanja said. The messages were very clear, some just want to pretend in front of cameras.

But Lwemiyaga MP Theodore Ssekikubo, who leads a small group of NRM MPs opposed to the amendment, said on Friday that his camp has 65 NRM lawmakers.

Those are the bold ones who have come out to demand that their signatures be withdrawn from that bogus list, Ssekikubo said.

He said the bold ones include; Kitagwendas Abbas Agaba, Kumi Municipalitys Silus Aogon and Kyenjojo Woman MP Spellanza Baguma.

Others are Sam Lyomoki (Workers), Felix Okot Ogong (Dokolo South), Patrick Nsamba Oshabe (Kasambya) and Barnabas Tinkasiimire.

On Friday, these joined Ssekikubo, Amoding and Nambeshe, as well as Shadow Attorney General Wilfred Niwagaba (Ndorwa East) at a press conference whey they condemned the move and vowed to block it.

This is an opportunity for me to implement what I swore at my inauguration as MP. I swore to protect and defend the constitution of the Republic of Uganda, and there is no time I will do that other than now, Nsamba said.

They have tried to make this a battle between the opposition and NRM but this is a battle for Ugandans defending the constitution. We are not going to allow them to rape the constitution, we are here to defend it, the Kasambya MP added.



Anite censure

Meanwhile, a section of NRM MPs on Friday threatened to move a censure motion against minister of state for Investment and Privatization Evelyn Anite.

An outspoken supporter of the anti-age limit bill, some MPs were angered by the ministers remarks during a press briefing at parliament on Thursday. Anite told journalists that her group couldnt be intimidated because it is in power and has the support of the army.

Okot Ogong said Anites statements were unfortunate and unconstitutional.

The constitution is very clear in Chapter 12 Article 208, that the UPDF shall be non-partisan, national in character, professional, disciplined and subordinate to civilian authority; the ministers statements should be condemned and withdrawn immediately, said the Dokolo South MP.

It is very unfortunate that a minister makes a statement of that nature and calls the constitution a disorganized document - a constitution she swore to defend, and that they want to organize it! She should withdraw the statement and apologize to the country.

The critical MPs said bringing the army into the age limit discussion was reckless.

This is the struggle of the majority and we are the majority in this cause. We are on the right side of history; this is a very critical moment we are in and we want to make our positions clear in order to guide our colleagues in NRM and the general public, Amoding said.

We are not scared at all because the army is subordinate to civilian authority, we have the army of the people of Uganda fully behind us and we are ready for anything, Okot Ogong added.

Ssekikubo said Anites statement amounts to treason.

Dragging the army into civil debate is treasonable. This is because a member of cabinet is attempting to incite and instigate the army to take over a constitutional order, Ssekikubo said.

As we speak now, Anite and group ought to be behind bars in Luzira on account of treason.



Anite speaks

Interviewed for a comment on Saturday, she said, There are so many death threats coming from members of parliament and the public just because we have a different view. I have been getting a lot of messages and phone calls threatening to kill me but the climax was when our colleague Hon [Betty] Nambooze said on the parliamentary forum that we have chosen the path of bloodshed.

We told them that parliament is where we go to legislate; we speak with words but not with fistfights. I said if my life is threatened and the only organ to protect me is the army and police but they wanted to twist the whole story. But seriously, if someone threatens to kill you as a civilian, dont you call for protection; if I also threatened them, they should seek the same protection but not to resort to mob justice, she added.



namuloki16@gmail.com
The Court of Appeal has today quashed an earlier court ruling by the High court that nullified the election of Peter Sematimba as Busiro West member of parliament.



In June last year, High court judge, Lydia Mugambe threw Sematimba out of parliament over lack of academic qualifications, ordering the Electoral Commission to conduct fresh elections.



One of Sematimbas political rivals Steven Ssekigozi of opposition political party, Democratic Party (DP) challenged Sematimbas election victory citing lack of prerequisite academic papers.

Peter Sematimba speaking in parliament

For one to stand for parliamentary elections in Uganda, the aspirant must have attained a Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or it's equivalent.



Ssekigozi challenged the authenticity of Sematimbas submitted academic documents especially the pre-medicine transcript from Asuza Pacific University and a diploma in electrical and computer technology from Pacific Coast Technical Institute, both in US.



It is upon these qualifications that the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) went ahead to issue Sematimba with an Advanced Level (Alevel) certificate equivalent to enable him participate in the parliamentary elections.



The High court ruled in Ssekigozis favour but Sematimba immediately challenged the High court ruling, filing an appeal in Court of Appeal in which he accused Justice Mugambe of erring and failing to evaluate the evidence on record when she held that I did not present proper or valid academic papers to National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) for equation



Today, the Court of Appeal led by Justice Steven Kavuma has upheld Sematimbas election ordering Ssekigozi to pay Sematimba the legal fees incurred both in the High court and Court of Appeal. Court faulted Ssekigozi for failing to provide enough proof to back up his allegations on Sematimba's papers.
Nakumatt supermarket is merging with arch-rival Tuskys, another regional retailer in a bid to rescue its dwindling business.

The two chain supermarkets have reportedly signed a merger deal which will see Nakumatt, the biggest retailer in Kenya, access stock from suppliers using Tuskys supermarkets' goodwill and value chain.



Although the brand will remain the same, Tuskys will provide managers to offer leadership to the hitherto struggling Nakumatt stores across the region.



Kenyan media is reporting that Nakumatt chief Atul Shah and his family have agreed to pledge his shares for six years to the financiers with the hope that this will offer a solution to Nakumatt financial challenges.

Nakumatt supermarket will now be supplied by Tuskys supermarket "This is a home-grown solution. The deal will allow Nakumatt access stock immediately and once it has stock then it can get the cash flows to remain afloat," a source familiar with the deal is quoted by Kenyan media.



Nakumatt has been faced with financial woes that have seen several stores close down both in Uganda and Kenya with suppliers holding stock over unpaid debts. It was revealed that the company was collapsing as a result of multi-billion debts to suppliers, banks and tax bodies.



Days ago, it was reported that Uganda Revenue Authority had commenced the auctioning of Nakumatt's goods to recover $71,000 (Shs 2.5 billion) owed in taxes with clearance sales at Bugolobi and Kamwokya held last week.



Besides the recovery by URA, Nakumatt has been sued by a number of suppliers demanding payment. "This is a home-grown solution. The deal will allow Nakumatt access stock immediately and once it has stock then it can get the cash flows to remain afloat," a source familiar with the deal is quoted by Kenyan media.Nakumatt has been faced with financial woes that have seen several stores close down both in Uganda and Kenya with suppliers holding stock over unpaid debts. It was revealed that the company was collapsing as a result of multi-billion debts to suppliers, banks and tax bodies.Days ago, it was reported that Uganda Revenue Authority had commenced the auctioning of Nakumatt's goods to recover $71,000 (Shs 2.5 billion) owed in taxes with clearance sales at Bugolobi and Kamwokya held last week.Besides the recovery by URA, Nakumatt has been sued by a number of suppliers demanding payment.

They include Britannia Allied Industries Limited, a leading food and beverage manufacturer who sued the retailer over unpaid debt amounting to Shs 302 million, state minister for Veteran Affairs, Bright Rwamirama, demanding payment of over Shs 2 billion. Rwamirama owns Multiplex Complex which housed the Nakumatt branch in Mbarara in western Uganda.



The cash-strapped retailer closed stores at Acacia Mall in Kololo, Village Mall in Bugolobi and at Victoria Mall in Entebbe. Knight Frank Uganda, the property manager of malls that housed the shut Nakumatt outlets said: "the supermarket space at these malls will go under redevelopment."



Earlier, in April, Nakumatt closed its Katwe branch after it accumulated over Shs 290 million in rent arrears. The Mbarara branch was closed in August over accumulated rent arrears.



The retailer had maintained four operational outlets in Uganda, all situated in Kampala. They include the flagship store at Oasis Mall, along Yusuf Lule and Bukoto outlet. However, they are equally shot of stock.



Recently its Ugandan workers, who have been contributing to a provident fund, raised the red flag after their contributions totaling Shs 500 million vanished.
After reflection for some time, I have come up with an idea that could solve our political problems and summersaulting, at least for the next 100 years.

From my eating experience, I have learnt that you dont spit a sugarcane bite before chewing all juice out of it. And sometimes, when the bite is too big, it is safer to keep chewing until it is thinned out enough not to injure the corners of the mouth on exit.

By now, we must be aware that in President Museveni we have a man whose special qualities it might take Uganda another three hundred years to see in another person.

Only a deluded fool thinks that Uganda can have an alternative to lead us forward in peace and stability. But whereas we are all entitled to our opinion, we are not entitled to our lunacy.

I honestly do not know where Uganda would have been if God did not send us our dear president. This country would have been a pathetic desert; we would be rotting in the limbo of underdevelopment; we would be stinking of nothingness.

Uganda cannot then thank God by letting go of His special send. As I suggested here before, dear Ugandans, look at yourselves in all your millions. Do you see anyone with presidential qualities?

The inconvenient fact is that we are all a bunch of incompetents, only fit to serve in lower positions and to be led. Look at our whole cabinet and parliament and tell me if it wouldnt be easier to search for a grain of salt in sand than to find a potential president among them.

And they have been wise and humble enough to admit it. Ndugu Rugunda [prime minister], can you be anything better than a perpetual follower?

Honourable Ssekandi [vice president] and ye all, rise up and tell the nation that the only capable one has already been found. Let those countries that are yet to find their best keep changing presidents; we arrived.

This is not a Moses that is supposed to hand over to Joshua to lead us to Canaan; he must deliver us into the era of oil revenue and beyond.

He was chosen even before he was born. Very soon, when the world gets to understand who a special person he truly is, Rwakitura [the presidents country home] will turn into a place of pilgrimage. Fear of blasphemy makes me hesitant to compare, but I mean something like Bethlehem.

Born humbly in a kraal, only to become a saviour of this desolate nation that was lost in the wilderness of visionless misrule!

Every generation has its fools. We are told that God so loved the world that He sent it His only son so that it may be redeemed. But what happened? The fools killed Him!

This generation has also had its own unusual luck of being sent a liberator. Again, its fools are saying that he has to go, in the middle of his mission! Do we really know what we have with us? Are we trying to question and test Gods benevolence?

Aware that only him can deliver at the presidential task and that this country may collapse without him, I am humbly proposing that we crown him King of Uganda.

We are wasting time and money in piecemeal amendments to remove term limits, age limits, etc, yet we truly know that this is all because we cannot afford to lose this extraordinary specie.

The reasonable thing we should do in the circumstances is to scrap the presidential elections ritual altogether, at least temporarily. What are elections for when we all know the best?

As a king of eternity, he will govern us smoothly without any worry that some other clueless Ugandan will take over and reverse his so many achievements. Our duty is to not interfere with his great plan for us. Let us humbly admit that we are misguided in thinking that any of us living in Uganda today can handle that job.

For the moment, let us turn State House into a palace. Let us learn to bow, genuflect, and prostrate before him. The palace will surely need servants to clean around, cook, wash dishes, look after the lawn, hold the kings garments, carry him shoulder high, plus feed and bathe his dogs.

There are about 245 legislators whom I think would happily do this job at a fee. We had misplaced them earlier. The palace will also need toilet tissue.

Our Constitution is made of nice porous paper; let us work the remaining pages into a roll. Once this is used up, we could as well roll up the paper meant for presidential election ballots and tally sheets. Honourable Smell Nsubugu, could you follow up this noble task?

Oh, I forget! With all its sumptuous meals, what is a palace without a place of convenience? Yes, those small rooms where kings go on foot. Considering that we shall have a big number of servants, we will need a big one. I think the parliamentary building will do.

The pigeonholes would keep our tissue well. On the government side of the plenary, we may set up urinals. With our visionary king in eternal charge, I dont think we shall need parliament, anyway.

Other MPs, apart from the 245, could be informed that we have no more work for them  except if they are willing to join other servants in the palace.

Let us erect huge statues of our king in every town. Let the whole world know that we found what we wanted. And when our king eventually dies (which I think is impossible anyway  God forbid), let us embalm him and ask of his body to kindly lead us for fifty more years.

For God and my indispensable king!



jsssentongo@gmail.com



The author heads the Center for African Studies at Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi.
Ronn Torossian

Camera brand Polaroid turned 80 this year. The company that took the practice of developing shots out of the equation was a huge success for decades. In the era of digital cameras and smartphones, however, the instant film brand has fallen out of fashion.

There are other challenges as well. For one, photo processing is all but immediate. The remaining processing centers that used to take a day or two to process photos can now do it in about an hour, sometimes even faster. Then theres the fact that many photos are now simply taken for the purpose of being shared on social media. How can Polaroid compete in a marketplace that has moved on from the question their cameras answered?

Recently, Polaroid Originals, the Dutch company that acquired Polaroid's brand and intellectual property last year, began releasing a line of products geared toward those who appreciate the nostalgia and simplicity of vintage Polaroid cameras. In conjunction, the company unveiled the OneStep 2, a throwback to its popular 70s model OneStep.

But will Millennials, who do have a bit of a nostalgia bug, fall for old-school Polaroid equipment? Well, Polaroid Originals 28-year-old CEO, Oskar Smolokowski, certainly thinks so, and says hes game despite the daunting task in front of him.

Smolokowski formerly led Impossible Project, a company formed by a band of instant photography fans which bought the last Polaroid manufacturing facility in a bid to keep the technology alive. Now, Smolokowski is leading a charge to bring Polaroid out of ersatz retirement with a strategy to adapt by not adapting 

Speaking to CNN, the CEO said, The smartphone is really saturating everyones lives, and people are reaching out for other ways to experience photography  (They want a) physical artifact  Thats not to say Polaroid is ignoring tech advances. Its new OneStep 2 comes equipped with certain 21st Century upgrades including LED lights, long battery life and a rechargeable USB.

Theres no doubt Smolokowskis peers are a strong target market for Polaroids new products. Those who grew up with smartphones and digital photography look at instant photos as an intriguing oddity. A luxury, perhaps, but one worth exploring. The $100 price tag for the camera may well make it worthwhile  if Polaroid develops a winning interactive public relations and marketing campaign. The niche market may get them a toehold in the marketplace, but the company will have to do more to appeal to a wider audience. They need to grow beyond a niche if they want to succeed in bringing Polaroid back to life.

***

Ronn Torossian is one of Americas most respected Public Relations professionals and CEO of 5WPR.
Jann Wenner, co-founder, editor and publisher of Rolling Stone, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017, is looking for a buyer for his controlling stake in the magazine.

The announcement follows Wenner Medias sale of 49 percent of Rolling Stone to Singapore-based digital music company BandLab Technologies last year. The company has also shed several other titles recently. In June, it sold Mens Journal to National Enquirer publisher American Media, which also bought Us Weekly from Wenner in March.

Once the home to such writers as Hunter S. Thompson and Tom Wolfe, Rolling Stone suffered a blow to its credibility in 2014, when it had to retract a story about an alleged gang rape on the University of Virginia campus.

While the magazine has had to contend with the problems facing all print media, its sales remain relatively healthy. The Alliance for Audited Media says that Rolling Stones paid circulation has held steady at 1.5 million since 2014.

While both Wenner and his son Gus, who is the titles president and chief operating officer, told the Times they plan to stay at the magazine, they acknowledged that the ultimate decision on that will be up to any potential new owner.
Andreae & Associates is providing DC support for a delegation from For Iraq United political party to educate US audiences on its work on behalf of the countrys minority Sunni population.

Iraqs Shia group represents from 60 to 65 percent of the total populations with the remaining Sunni group divided between Arabs and Kurds.

A&As one-month consulting agreement is worth $50K.

Chip Andreae launched the firm in 1991 to specialize in risk management and government relations.

He was chief of staff to former Indiana Republican Senator Richard Lugar and CEO of Bell Pottinger USA.
Finn Partners has entered into a formal agreement to acquire New York-based global B2B firm ABI Marketing Public Relations.

Financial terms of the deal were not publicly disclosed.

Peter Finn, founding partner of Finn Partners (R), with ABI Marketing Public Relations CEO and founder Alan Isacson.

Founded in 1980, ABI specializes in marketing for the industrial and trade sector, providing services primarily for packaging, food and beverage, life sciences, chemical, plastic, automotive, aerospace and environmental companies. The New York-based firm maintains additional offices in London, Frankfurt, Singapore and Shanghai.

In light of the deal, the agency will now be known as ABI, a Finn Partners company. Founder and CEO Alan Isacson now takes the title of managing partner. All of ABIs offices will remain, with the exception of the firms New York location. All staff from that office will relocate to FPs Midtown headquarters.

Finn Partners founding partner Peter Finn told ODwyers that the acquisition widens the independent agencys global footprint, effectively adding new outposts in Asia and Europe, while introducing industrial marketing to the firms toolkit.

ABI will build upon our existing strength in B2B and brings new expertise in the industrial sector, Finn said. Additionally, by adding to our existing offices in London and Singapore, and by bringing new offices in Shanghai and Frankfurt to Finn Partners, ABI expands our international footprint. Growing our international operations is a high priority for Finn Partners.

ABI accounts for the latest addition in what has become an acquisition spree for the New York-based agency. Finn Partners earlier this year acquired Singapore-based B2B PR and marketing agency Ying Communications, a deal that closely followed its 2015 buys of Portland-based agency Lane PR and Washington, D.C.-based branding and marketing services shop Greenfield Belser.

The agency in recent years also acquired San Francisco-based tech agency Horn Group and New York-based health and education firm gabbegroup and Washington-based education specialists Widmeyer Communications.

M&A advisor Gould + Partners facilitated the ABI deal.

Finn Partners last year posted nearly $77 million in net fees, accounting for seven-percent year-over-year gains from 2015.
posted by , ,

I have stopped reading what people post on social media about why we are where we are and what is wrong with everything. And the main reason is because it is an energy and time black-hole.





If the people who are elected to move the country forward aren't doing their jobs but spending all their energy diverting national resources for private benefits while feeding us with petty issues to brawl about, why should I waste my time trying to fix their mess or even discuss their mess. I am not God. You are not God. I don't have unlimited resources. You don't have unlimited resources. It's time you do what's good for yourself and forget about fixing divisive national issues.





IPOB.

Nigerian Army.

Boko Haram.

Lai Muhammed.

North Agenda.

South Agenda.

Ultimatums.





This past weekend I was in Abuja and tried to follow-up on a training project we are pursuing with one of the government agencies. I spoke with our inside man. He told me a lot of things. Last month, I was in same Abuja and discussed another long-tail training projects targeted at government ministries, departments and agencies. Again, I heard a lot of things.





You want to know what was obvious from all what I heard?





Everyone in government is like a man with a hoe just trying to heap as much of the good things to his own side. They talk all sorts and argue in different directions publicly but right there in the offices they hold they all do the same thing -- that which personally favours them and not what they say out loud as good for the nation on the pages of newspapers or in public discussions.





Then there are those who waste away their lives on the temporal pages of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And some won't even stop there, they seek out real physical harm to themselves and others. They burn houses. They put themselves in harms way.





The people with the mandate and national resources to fix things are not, they are rather fanning old flames and starting new ones. Then some people have made themselves Captain Nigeria but without the right/authentic information and a proper avenue to fix things, they end up making bad situations get worse.





To you my friends, whom I care about, I will advice that you act like our politicians and government office holders, do what's good for you. Forget about fixing the country or making things fair for everyone. At least for now. With all the false information flying around and heavily reposted on social media, you might end up committing a greater crime than the one you seek justice for. Rather focus on yourself and your immediate family, then do what's good for you and your family.




Jordan Somer was 13 when she brought together 15 participants in a Bennington community center in 2007 for the first Miss Amazing pageant.

A decade later, her idea of a pageant for girls and women with disabilities has exploded, growing from a local program to a regional one to a national program that boasts events in 32 states and thousands of participants.

Somer was inspired by her own pageant experience and the urge to create something for the athletes she met while volunteering with Special Olympics. The Central High student tapped family and friends for help in putting on that first pageant.

Then in 2010, Somer won an award from the Nickelodeon network, and TeenNick broadcast the pageants story. By the time she prepared to enter college, Somer was sifting through more than 200 pageant applications and holding Skype interviews in her freshman dorm room with people who wanted to bring Miss Amazing to their states.

In 2013 the first National Miss Amazing pageant was held in Omaha to help meet the growing interest. And in August, 130 Miss Amazing queens gathered in Chicago for whats become an annual national event.

Teri Jirous and her daughter, Koli, who uses a wheelchair, are among those who have benefited.

Five years ago Teri was looking for new activities for Koli when the Miss Amazing pageant website popped up. By this year, 15-year-old Koli Jirous was the states junior teen queen and went on to the national pageant.

While Koli won first runner-up in her division at nationals, she said the girls she has met stand out as her favorite part of the pageants.

Hey, I have friends for life, Koli said.

Keeping up with the explosive growth has been one of the biggest challenges, Somer said.

Somer said she was able to juggle the growing organization through high school and college with the support of her mother and by surrounding herself with similarly motivated people.

Somer remembered devoting weekends to Miss Amazing projects and feeling liberated once she graduated from New York University and was able to commit to the organization full time.

Somers mother and peers support systems have morphed into a committee of 40 directors  who are anywhere from 13 to 40 years old  and hundreds of volunteers who continue to step up for the pageants. The teams ensure that each states program is pretty self-sufficient, said Nebraska Miss Amazing Director Alyssa Clark.

Somer, now 23, is CEO of Miss Amazing and the programs only paid employee.

I never, when I was 13, had quite the vision of what Miss Amazing has become today, she said.

Somer entered college with an extracurricular hobby and a major in broadcast journalism, but her goals changed once Miss Amazing picked up speed.

As it was happening, my sights were set on doing this full time and growing the organization, as I started to see the demand for it, she said.

Somer has faced questions about her age, self-doubt and other challenges throughout the 10 years of Miss Amazing. But she took the hardest step when she was a fearless, naive 13-year-old and just did it, she said.

After I graduated college, I had this moment of paralysis, because I felt like I had lost some of that fearlessness. I had expectations for what it would be like to pursue Miss Amazing full time, and it was really striking how overwhelmed I was that This is it. This is my life now. 

Hosting a state Miss Amazing pageant can cost $8,000, which is funded by grants, partnerships and donations, Clark said. Participants are asked only to chip in five items of nonperishable food and help take it to a food bank after the pageant.

When you think pageant, you think about what you see on TV, like Miss America, where theyre so focused on what you see, said Clark. And were so focused and driven on the community service, their personalities, whether or not theyre being true to themselves.

While the events retain traditional pageant elements, like talent portions and sparkly gowns, theyre altered in other ways to accommodate contestants with a wide range of disabilities. Each participant is paired with a volunteer buddy or two. Competitors can be 5 years old or 64. Everyone gets crowned.

Somer said the programs goals are to expand into every state and even internationally, with a greater focus on improving employment prospects for the contestants.

I think Miss Amazing is uniquely poised to pose solutions to some serious problems, she said. The platform were providing allows them to develop those life skills, but also to widen their network, to make friends, and that is absolutely related to job success.

Loree Woods of Lincoln said the programs been huge for the confidence of her 20-year-old daughter, Taylor, especially after she was crowned Nebraskas Miss Amazing Teen last fall.

To see them light up and be who they are around other people that have disabilities is just very inspiring, she said.
European Union finance ministers are developing a new way to tax digital companies such as Amazon.com and Facebook to raise money from an industry that they say provides less than it should to public coffers.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told colleagues at a meeting in Tallinn, Estonia, that the bloc should agree to a tax on revenue  rather than profits  of the digital industry by mid-2018.

Ten countries, including Germany, Italy and Spain, back the initiative. Theyre concerned that taxing profits is too complicated under international rules, allowing companies to skirt traditional levies.

We are responsible to our taxpayers to deal with it; we cant just watch how bags of money are transferred elsewhere, Slovak Finance Minister Peter Kazimir said in an interview. I favor imposing immediate levies, similar to sales tax, but only as a temporary solution before we reach a global agreement.

Traditional taxation practices have failed to capture business from an industry where value added tends to be virtual rather than material and digital companies have sought to take advantage of loopholes.

The battle has intensified since the European Commission last year ordered Apple to pay as much as 13 billion euros ($15.5 billion) plus interest in back taxes, saying Dublin wooed the iPhone maker to Ireland by illegally slashing its obligations. Apple and the Irish government are fighting the ruling.

Also, Google in July won its battle against a 1.12 billion-euro French tax bill after a court rejected claims that the search-engine giant had abused loopholes to avoid paying its fair share.
Every once in a while, Lincoln native Holly McGhghy spots a reminder of home from her new home in Ocala, Florida: Theres the occasional Huskers license plate and, more frequently, long-haul trucks from Nebraska operators like Werner Enterprises and Crete Carrier Corp.

But when she spotted a fleet of utility trucks from Lincoln Electric System on her drive home from work Thursday, it took a bit to fully register.

I didnt think anything of it at first, having lived in Florida for a couple of years now. Then a whole convoy of them went by and I thought Holy crap, I know who they are!  said McGhghy, 33, a vocational rehabilitation counselor.

After spending Sunday night, all of Monday and most of Tuesday without power, McGhghy said she was relieved to see the LES crews at work just a couple of blocks from her home on Thursday.

Ocala was the second assignment for 14 LES workers who, with 17 others from Grand Island and Columbus-based Loup Power, volunteered for restoration efforts in Florida and spent the first part of the week in Tallahassee, about 185 miles northwest of their second assignment.

LES told its crews to prepare to spend two weeks in Florida.

Those crews were successful in getting the lights back on in Tallahassee and knew Ocala was their likely next assignment on Wednesday. But crew leader Dave Danahy said there were still plenty of unknowns before the 19-vehicle LES, Grand Island and Loup Power fleet headed south.

Tallahassee told us they would provide us with some food to take with us because they didnt anticipate anything being open, Danahy said.

Unusual weather was another unknown for Nebraska crews that volunteered for storm recovery efforts in Florida last week.

Humidity isnt something Ray Blessin ordinarily contends with in his duties as electric distribution supervisor for Ogallala, a city of about 4,500 in western Nebraska. In a place that size, traffic isnt a concern. Neither are hurricanes.

But last week wasnt an ordinary one for Blessin and a crew of 20 other Nebraska Public Power District workers who volunteered to travel to storm-ravaged Tampa, Florida, to aid in recovery efforts behind Hurricane Irma.

Its nice and hot and sticky, Blessin said Thursday morning, a day after arriving with the NPPD fleet to temperatures in the 90s and humidity levels well over 80 percent. On Friday morning, areas of the city registered humidity levels higher than 96 percent, which sent the midday heat index to more than 100 degrees.

It takes you probably a good four or five days to adapt to the humidity, especially for me living in western Nebraska, where were generally not around that much humidity, Blessin said.

Thats about twice as long as it took the NPPD team to arrive in Florida. Sunshine State residents who evacuated to the north ahead of Irmas landfall on Sept. 10 clogged regional southbound Interstate routes last week as the storm cleared out and weakened in intensity.

Even in Atlanta, nearly 500 miles north of Tampa, traffic on southbound I-75 was bumper-to-bumper on Tuesday night.

It took us five hours to drive 50 miles, Blessin said.

Arriving in Tampa on Wednesday to reports of 425,000 of Tampa Electrics more than 725,000 customers without power, NPPD crews got to work restoring distribution lines that carry electricity to homes, schools and businesses. The Tampa electric utility estimated about 3,200 line, tree and other workers descended on the Gulf Coast city to help restore power.

NPPD crews will rotate out after two weeks of work in affected areas. Jacksonville-area utilities requested aid that could land NPPD workers there.

Wherever crews show up, theres plenty of work to be done.

Irma on its own unleashed as much energy as a typical full Atlantic hurricane season, according to Phil Klotzbach, an atmospheric research scientist at Colorado State University. The storm generated more energy than 18 other entire Atlantic hurricane seasons on record, Klotzbach noted.

That means crews like Blessins have encountered Floridas natural beauty turned against its inhabitants.

Low-slung and distinguished by sprawling canopies, the decades-old laurel oak trees and sometimes centuries-old live oak trees shading residential streets, yards and porches of Florida residences took a beating in high winds. When their branches gave, they took electric distribution lines  and residents power supplies  with them.

Omaha Public Power District crew leader Chris Coniglio, who arrived in Tampa on Thursday afternoon with a team of 14 OPPD workers and as many trucks, learned that trees in Florida are more than just another force of nature to contend with.

Some trees are protected once they get to a certain size, so it got kind of political in this area were working in with the (NFLs Tampa Bay) Buccaneers stadium and all these mansions around it, Coniglio said. They had to deliver a bigger, taller pole to get above the trees, because we cant cut any of them.

Across Florida, more than 6 million were without power as the storm coursed through the state and into Georgia, Alabama and portions of Mississippi and Tennessee before finally dissipating.

Such widespread devastation and power outages prompted hundreds of electric utilities to send volunteers to the region to assist in restoration efforts.

We estimate as an industry that we have about 60,000 resources in the storm. We probably have 1,000 linemen crews, at least, said Mike Hyland, senior vice president for engineering at the American Public Power Association.

The industry trade group also helps coordinate disaster relief and recovery efforts during and after storms such as Irma.

In circumstances such as these, companies receiving aid assistance are on the hook for paying for all costs associated with mutual aid programs, so OPPD and NPPD will be reimbursed by Tampa Electric, and so on.

And it isnt just linemen that heed the call, Hyland said. Volunteers also take on customer service tasks, for example.

Every single employee for a utility is working this storm, he said. You dont go home when you work for a utility, you just get reassigned, so you either answer more phones or get more food or do social media.

For the OPPD crews, another of which was dispatched to help with recovery in Jacksonville, they were planning on being in Florida for as long as six weeks.

Coniglio, who left on the same day his dad was being released from the hospital for knee-replacement surgery, said that was just one personal sacrifice he was willing to make to go down and help Floridians.

My grandson was just born in June and his baptism will be near the end of October. They said to plan for two to six weeks of being gone, so that puts me right at that baptism if were here the whole time, he said.

I might retire next year, Coniglio said, and after years of not doing line work and now being a supervisor, this is my last hurrah.
NEW YORK  President Donald Trump, who derided the United Nations as a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time after his election, is surprising veterans of the global body by leaning on it to help carry out his foreign policy agenda.

From pushing the Security Council to tighten sanctions on North Korea to forging a partnership with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres over cutting troubled peacekeeping programs, the Trump administration and U.N. officials have found overlapping areas of agreement that many analysts didnt expect.

The Korean crisis has focused U.S. attention on the value of the Security Council, said Richard Gowan, a UN expert with the European Council on Foreign Relations and author of a new report on Trump and the U.N.. The irony is that the Trump administration now really needs a functional U.N. to help it deal with the biggest threat on its agenda.

The annual U.N. General Assembly, which has drawn almost 200 world leaders to New York this week, will put that relationship to the test. European leaders will press Trump, who addresses the global body for the first time on Tuesday, to recommit to a 2015 Iran nuclear deal that hes threatened to walk away from. And another North Korean missile launch or nuclear blast could quickly force Trump to choose between more diplomacy or a devastating military conflict.

While the State Department is taking the fewest number of diplomats to the gathering in more than a decade, Trump brought a coterie of top aides and is spending four full days in New York, about double the time former presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush typically spent at General Assembly meetings. Thats in large part because because U.S. officials see an opportunity to make progress in so many key areas.

Its a new day at the U.N., Nikki Haley, the U.S. envoy to the U.N., said Friday in Washington. Its not just about talking, its about action.

The cooperative relationship - at least in a few key areas - can be attributed to the relationship forged between two seasoned politicians: Haley, a former South Carolina governor, and Guterres, a former Portuguese prime minister who, like Trump, took office in January. While many UN officials watched with horror as the Trump administration vowed to slash spending on foreign aid, including the UN, by about one-third, Guterres and Haley found a way to target troubled peacekeeping efforts.

Those programs, in countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, had long been criticized for not protecting civilians and, in some cases, sexually exploiting the very populations they were meant to defend.

For Guterres, its a partnership forged in practicality: The U.S. is the UNs top contributor, providing 28.5 percent of the $7.3 billion peacekeeping budget and 22 percent of the core budget of $2.7 billion. Targeting cuts in U.S. contributions to efforts the UN admits are ineffective is a win for both sides.

The secretary-general has shown his political acumen, hosting Trumps daughter Ivanka for lunch and, in private meetings with ambassadors, outlining plans to revamp UN agencies that provide humanitarian aid to avoid duplication and proposing changes to strengthen his office.

All major reforms in the UN have been the result of the largest financier working with the secretary-general to convince other members of the need for reform, said Brett Schaefer, senior research fellow at Heritage Foundation.

In a letter sent in July and seen by Bloomberg News, Haley urged member countries to back Guterres to use his executive authority to pursue a robust management and reform agenda.

Its imperative that Guterres works hand-in-glove with the U.S. ambassador, said Peter Yeo, a vice president at the nonprofit United Nations Foundation. Otherwise its difficult to achieve anything at the UN.
The Trump administration, already struggling with a big nuclear problem in North Korea, is about to raise another one by questioning the implementation of the nuclear agreement with Iran.

A senior administration official said that President Donald Trump will share his concerns about Iranian compliance with global leaders gatheringthis week for the United Nations General Assembly. The official said Trump wants tighter inspection of Iranian facilities and a re-examination of the sunset clause that would allow Iran to resume aspects of its nuclear program in 10 to 15 years.

Trump isnt proposing to reopen negotiations but instead threatening to scuttle the deal altogether if Iran doesnt offer concessions. Hes willing to leave the agreement if we dont . . . fix the deal, the official said. Hes willing to cut bait and walk away.

Trumps position reflects his oft-stated view that the Iran nuclear pact is the worst deal ever negotiated. He has levied this attack without discussing whether U.S. interests would be served by scrapping one of the few successful counterproliferation agreements that exist.

An American rebuff to Iran, for example, would undermine whatever slim hope exists for negotiating a denuclearization agreement with North Korea. And despite White House talk of seeking a united front among allies, theres no sign of support among European nations, even those critical of Iranian behavior, such as France.

President Emmanuel Macron said this month that while hes concerned about Irans post-2025 status, the 2015 agreement is what enables us to establish a constructive and demanding dialogue with Iran.

Trumps apparent hope that Iran will offer unilateral concessions is questioned by Iran experts. I dont believe Tehran would be ready at all to renegotiate the deal, said Seyed Hossein Mousavian, a former Iranian official who now teaches at Princeton but remains in touch with his ex-colleagues. He called the idea a nonstarter.

Olli Heinonen, a former senior official at the International Atomic Energy Agency, said in an interview that the administrations arguments for better Iranian compliance have some merit.

Heinonen argued, for example, that it is a valid question whether Tehran is abiding by the cap on its heavy-water stockpile of 130 metric tons when it allegedly still owns many tons more that have been shipped to Oman and stored there, awaiting buyers. He also said it is legitimate to question whether Iran is allowing full inspection of all potential nuclear-related facilities. And he agreed that the sunset provision should be revisited, rather than just kicking the can down the road.

Trumps push for concessions on the nuclear agreement is accompanied by sharp criticism of Iranian behavior in regional conflicts. The senior administration official listed a string of what he termed Tehrans destabilizing actions through proxies.

He charged that Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have threatened navigation in the Bab al-Mandab Strait with mines and missiles and that they are installing ballistic missiles in Yemen that could target Riyadh and Abu Dhabi.

The administration official also charged that Iran is building precision-guided missiles in Syria that could be used against Israel; sending Iraqi Shiite militias into eastern Syria to aid the regime there; and providing deadly explosively formed penetrators, or EFPs, to Shiite rebels in Bahrain. This last is an especially emotional issue for U.S. commanders because Iran-supplied EFPs killed many American soldiers in Iraq.

A second administration official provided links to 25 media reports to back up the first officials allegations about Iranian behavior. Some of these appeared in Arab media outlets that are strongly anti-Iran; they couldnt be confirmed independently.

The Trump administrations dossier about Iranian activity is part of a new, get-tough strategy for dealing with Tehran, the first official said. Trump reviewed this approach with his advisers a week ago. He will make a final decision soon about Iran policies, including whether to recertify in October that Iran is complying with the nuclear agreement.

Bill Burns, who as deputy secretary of state helped launch the secret diplomacy that led to the Iran agreement, was blunt about what Trump may be setting in motion. If we dont certify the agreement, that will be perceived  rightly  as us beginning to walk away from it. That will put us in a weaker, not a stronger, position in dealing with Iranian behavior.

The right question to ask is the same one as when the deal was being negotiated: Does this agreement, with all its flaws, make the U.S. and its allies safer than they would be with no agreement? This security metric, it seems to me, still favors keeping the deal.
Actress molestation case: Dileep's bail plea rejected for the fourth time

India

oi-Anusha

The Angamaly judicial magistrate court on Monday rejected actor Dileep's bail plea for the fourth time. The actor has been charged with conspiracy in the February 17 actress molestation case.

The court rejected Dileep's plea seeking bail on the grounds of being accused merely of conspiracy. Dileep's advocate told the courts that it had been almost 60 days since the actor's arrest and investigations in the case had concluded. The Kerala High Court too has rejected Dileep's bail plea twice in the past forcing the actor to remain in custody at the Aluva sub-jail.

Dileep is accused of hiring Pulsar Suni, the prime accused in the case, to abduct the actress. The police have accused Dileep of conspiracy and masterminding the attack. Dileep, in almost 60 days, has been allowed to step out of jail for one day in September for a family event.

Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court deferred a plea by Dileep's wife and actor Kavya Madhavan seeking anticipatory bail in the same case to next week. The court will decide on the bail after the prosecution files a report. Kavya Madhavan had approached the Kerala High Court seeking bail alleging that there was an attempt to make her an accused in the case.

OneIndia News
Advantage Palanisamy after 18 AIADMK MLAs disqualified- How the numbers add up

India

oi-Anusha

Disqualification of 18 ruling party MLAs comes as a massive relief to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy. With the current strength of the house at 215, all that Palanisamy needs to continue as Chief Minister are 108 votes.

In a much-anticipated move, Tamil Nadu assembly speaker P Dhanapal on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs of the AIADMK under Tamil Nadu Assembly Members party defection law, 1986. The move now effectively brings down the total strength of the assembly to 215 as against the original strength of 234. With Jayalalithaa's death, the number had been reduced to 233. Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy now needs only 108 to sustain his government.

Tamil Nadu Speaker disqualifies 18 MLAs backing TTV Dinakaran

"It is advantage Edappadi Palanisamy since he will now sail through decisively. The order has better legal standing since it has come independent of the Madras High Court's order over floor test. Palanisamy, who has the support of 112 MLAs currently can breath easy since all he needs is 108 votes to reach the halfway mark," said Sumanth Raman, a Political analyst.

Before the MLAs' disqualification, the halfway mark in the Tamil Nadu assembly stood at 117. With 19 AIADMK MLAs pledging their support to TTV Dinakaran and withdrawing their support to Edappadi Palanisamy's Chief Ministership, the number, 117, has become unachievable for the incumbent government. The Tamil Nadu speaker had issued multiple notices to the MLAs including Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P Vetrivel and K Mariappan but received no response. MLAs of the party backing Dinakaran have been herded to resort after resort ever since the

merger of Palanisamy and O Panneerselvam factions.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 12:06 [IST]
From hijab to Kashmir, Zawahiri was Al-Qaeda's voice for everything anti-India

As Al-Qaeda scouts for new chief, Indian agencies worry about an Islamic State spillover

They stay among you to kill you: Ansarul Bangla Team could be Indias biggest threat

Al-Qaeda operative arrested in Delhi, came to India to train Rohingyas

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Shumon Haq, a Bangladeshi-British al-Qaeda operative who came to India to train Rohingya Muslims was arrested on Sunday, Delhi police said.

Addressing a press conference, Pramod Kushwaha, DCP of Special Cell, said four cartridges, laptops, phones, Bangladeshi currency and SIM card were seized from Haq.

"He is not a Rohingya Muslim. He's a British citizen who came to India through Bangladesh. He arrived in Bangladesh in 2014 to recruit people and send them to Myanmar," he said.

"He has been associated with Al-Qaeda since 2013 and has been to South Africa and Syria," the senior officer added.

He came to India to set up base in Mizoram, Manipur & send ppl to Myanmar, basically espousing cause of Rohingyas: P Kushwaha, DCP Spl Cell pic.twitter.com/B5dIh6LLeS  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Trained to use arms and a proficient hacker, Subhan Haq has already radicalised several Rohingyas in Bangladesh during his four-year stint with the terrorist group.

Recommended Video

Rohingya crisis: Myanmar top General accuses Rohingya for violence | Oneindia News

The Delhi Police said that the arrested accused Shuman was plotting a "major operation" in the country and his other aid could be also present in the national capital.

Police said that he came to India to set up base in Mizoram, Manipur and send people to Myanmar, basically espousing cause of Rohingyas.

Earlier in the day, the Narendra Modi government told the Supreme Court that many Rohingya refugees have links with terror organisations and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Refugees from the community present a major security threat, the Centre said in a 16-page affidavit.

It may be also recalled that the terrorist group in June said that it would target Indian Hindu "separatist" organisations involved in the destruction of mosques and Muslims' property and the killing or forced conversion of Muslims.

OneIndia News
Great tolerance, the CBI is sitting idle in Goa says its SP

For govt jobs in Goa, one-year work experience will be a must, says CM

Goa to enforce ban on drinking in public

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Goa government will soon impose a ban on drinking in public. Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar on Sunday said that the state will ban drinking of liquor in public places to curb the nuisance created by people in drunken state.

He said necessary amendments to the excise act will be done next month.

"We need to come out with the notification banning drinking of liquor in public places. The notification will be issued by October end for which we will amend the existing law," Parrikar said at a function in Panaji.

The state government is currently governing the licences to the liquor outlets under Goa, Daman and Diu Excise Act, 1964.

Goa has already announced ban on drinking in selected public places including beaches.

Parrikar said the state government is serious about inculcating the habit of wearing helmets while riding two- wheelers.

He said the police will penalise two-wheeler riders who are driving without helmet and also will tell them the benefits of wearing a helmet while driving.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 6:37 [IST]
Heavy rain claims another life in Kerala, landslides reported, alert sounded

India

oi-Anusha

By Anusha Ravi

Heavy rains continued to lash parts of Kerala for the second consecutive day on Monday. Multiple incidents of landslides and trees uprooting were reported from across the state. One person was killed after a tree came crashing down on him due to heavy rains in Thondimala of Idukki district.

Palakkad, Idukki, Malappuram witnessed rain fury for the second day while other districts got some respite. A biker, identified as Manu, a resident of Idukki, was killed when a tree came crashing down on his bike on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway. At least three people were killed in various rain-related incidents in the state on Sunday.

Alert sounded

The India Meteorological Department has sounded an alert of heavy rainfall in parts of Kerala till September 19. 7-11 cms rain is predicted to continue until the morning of September 9. The state government has kept fire and emergency service personnel, disaster management department etc on standby in case of emergencies.

Kerala is witnessing the heaviest downpour in the last five years with Palakkad receiving the highest, 235 mm rainfall on Sunday. The rains have, however, brought respite to dry spell witnessed at the onset of monsoon. The rains have led to rise in water level of the Mullaperiyar dam to 126 feet. Sluice gates of five dams have been opened.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 18:32 [IST]
Jiah Khan's mother writes to PM Narendra Modi appealing for justice

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Rabiya Khan, mother of the late actor Jiah Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as an appeal for justice.

The letter focussed on how Rabiya has been persistently fighting for justice and is still struggling.

Khan also mentioned actress Kangana Ranaut's courage, who openly shamed an actor for allegedly assaulting and abusing her in her early life.

I am a British citizen the mother of Jiah Khan, who was murdered in india mumbai on 3 June 2013. It has been four years now that I had been persistently fighting for justice.

"All the forensic evidence that I have obtained from experts in India and England point towards homicide. Their analysis shows that the injuries on my daughter's body were inconsistent with the alleged suicidal hanging and all forensic evidence strongly suggests that she was murdered and then hanged to make it look like a suicide," the letter said.

Jiah, was found dead at her Juhu home here on June 3, 2013. Police arrested Sooraj on the basis of a six-page letter, purportedly written by Jiah, and booked him for 'abetment of suicide'.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 17:09 [IST]
'Kancha Ilaiah deserves to be hanged,' says one politician, 'burn his books,' says another

India

oi-Anusha

The Telugu Desam Paty MP called prominent Dalit writer Kancha Iliaiah a 'traitor' for his book on Arya Vysyas. T G Venkatesh, during the meetings of community members, said that the writer deserved to be hanged to death for his controversial book.

"Had he made such comments about a community in other countries, he would have been hacked in public. His statements are nurturing hate between communities and he should be stopped. There is something wrong with him to spew venom about the community, its language and trade," said TDP MP T G Venkatesh.

Former Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah, apart from demanding an apology from the author, also asked for the controversial book to be burnt. "He should offer an unconditional apology to the Arya Vysyas in the country. He should be banned and his books should be burnt," he said. He was speaking in Machilipatnam when he reacted to the controversial book by the Dalit writer. Rosaiah even "warned" Ilaiah that the community would not keep quiet if he "continued to be a pain in the neck".

The outburst from politicians from the community comes days after Kancha Ilaiah filed a complaint with the police alleging death threats over his new book. The author told the media that he was willing to change the name of the book if the community representatives were prepared to earmark 5 per cent jobs in their establishments to Dalits, Adivasis and members from washerman and barber communities.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 15:36 [IST]
In the name of charity, Rs 50 lakh transferred to personal A/C: ED in chargesheet against Rana Ayyub

Special anti-corruption courts in every district: SC to take up plea next week

Mallya assets: Rs 100-crore shares transferred to Centre

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

India's ace anti-money laundering agency Enforcement Directorate has began the method of confiscating the property of Vijay Mallya, chairman of the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines Ltd, which had been connected by the company beneath the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Sources mentioned that the Stock Holding Corporation of India Ltd (SHCIL) has transferred the title and rights of shares price Rs 100 crore of United Breweries Ltd (UBL), held straight and not directly by Mallya, to the central authorities.

Earlier, the ED had written to SHCIL asking it to transfer the title and rights of un-pledged shares of UBL, United Spirits Ltd (USL) and McDowell Holdings Ltd worth close to Rs 4,000 crore, held by Mallya and his associate firms, under section 9 of the PMLA.

In September, 2016, the ED had provisionally attached these shares in connection with the loan default of over Rs 6,000 crore by Kingfisher Airlines. Subsequently, the provisional attachment was confirmed by the adjudicating authority of the agency.

The agency has attached 4 crore unpledged shares of UBL, 25.14 lakh shares of USL and 22 lakh shares of McDowell Holdings of Mallya, and some private companies allegedly linked to him. These firms include Devi Investment Pvt Ltd, Kingfisher Finvest India Ltd, Mallya Private Ltd, Pharma Trading Company, Vittal Investment Pvt Ltd, United Breweries Holdings Ltd, Kamsco Industries and The Gem Investment and Trading, said sources.

In February, a special court had confirmed the ED order to attach Rs 4,200-crore assets of Mallya and others, paving the way for their confiscation by the agency.

On June 14, the ED submitting a 5,000-page prosecution complaint in a Mumbai court on an alleged loan default of Rs 900 crore by Kingfisher. The complaint accused the airline and Mallya of having allegedly routed overseas over Rs 417 crore of the Rs 900 crore it secured as loan from IDBI Bank for aircraft rental leasing and operational expenses.

The judge has set December 4 as the start date for a final hearing in the extradition case. If the Chief Magistrate rules in the government's favour, the British Home Secretary will have to order Mallya's extradition within two months since the day of the judgment.

Mallya is now facing an extradition to India trial in the United Kingdom where he has been living in a self-imposed exile since he left India on March 2 last year on a diplomatic passport he had held as Rajya Sabha member.

At present, two top most investigating agencies in country ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation are pursuing Mallya's case with the UK authorities by taking several delegates to their government.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 11:28 [IST]
Marshal Arjan Singh: A legend who keeps the spirit of IAF alive

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh was laid to rest with 17-gun salute and fly past on Monday. But, he has left behind a rich legacy which will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Started as a cadet in the Royal Air Force in 1938 , Marshal Arjan Singh's exceptional career graph rose till he became Chief of Air Staff in 1964. He served Royal Indian Air Force during World War II, and was Wing Commander of Royal Indian Air Force, Ambala Air Force Station during Indo-Pakistan War of 1947. He led the Indian Air Force in Indo-Pakistan War of 1965. When appointed as Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, he was just about 45.

Former Vice Chief of IAF Kapil Kak described him as the "epitome of military leadership in classical sense". He was the only 5 star-ranked officer to survive since the death of the hero of 1971 Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in 2008.

Even in deteriorating health condition, Arjan Singh paid last respect to former President APJ Abdul Kalam's mortal remains at AFS Palam in New Delhi. In a touching tribute, wheelchair-bound, Singh stood up to pay his last respects to the former Indian President. Arjan Singh commanded respect from politicians across political spectrum.

Arvind Singh, who flew in from the United States for his father's last rites, said he learnt humility by observing him. "One thing that struck me (about my father) was that he was always very humble. He always treated people well. If he saw a sweeper he would treat him equally and that is something I learnt from him," he said.

Arjan Singh being honoured with 'Distinguished Flying Cross' Lord Louis Mount Batten, Supreme Commander, pins Distinguished Flying Cross on Squadron Leader Arjan Singh during the battles for Impahl and Burma in 1944-45. Arjan Singh's two operational tenures on the Burma Front during World War II the first as a Pilot Officer with No.1 Squadron ("Tigers") and subsequently in 1944, as Commander of the same Squadron, are outstanding landmarks of his enviable flying career. Courtesy: Sikh-history.com Indo-Pakistan War of 1965 Air Marshal Arjan Singh DFC with Senior Army Commanders in Kashmir during the 1965 operations. Courtesy: Sikh-history.com On 97th birthday Indian Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh being congratulated by Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his 97th Birthday Celebration at Akash Officers' Mess in New Delhi. PTI Photo In conversation with women fighter pilots Marshal of the Indian Air Force (MIAF) Arjan Singh along with Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha meeting with three newly commissioned women fighter pilots at his residence in New Delhi . PTI Photo With the then Defense Minister Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh salutes Defence Minister AK Antony at the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. PTI photo
MIG not averse to transfer of technology with India

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Eyeing a multi-billion dollar contract from the Indian Navy for the supply of fighter aircraft, Russian military aviation firm MiG on Sunday said it was not averse to the transfer of technology and joint development of MiG-29 K jets with Indian companies.

MiG CEO Ilya Tarasenko said his company would submit a detailed proposal to the Modi government shortly, detailing its readiness for the joint development of aircraft for the Navy to deepen its already close engagement with India.

"We are considering various options for long-term and perspective cooperation, including those within the framework of the Make in India programme," Tarasenko told PTI in a written interview.

In January, the Indian Navy had kick-started the process of procuring 57 multi-role combat aircraft for its carriers by issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to leading military jet makers.

Currently, six planes are compatible for the aircraft carrier - Rafale (Dassault, France), F-18 Super Hornet (Boeing, US), MIG-29K (Russia), F-35B and F-35C (Lockheed Martin, US) and Gripen (Saab, Sweden). While F-18, Rafale and MIG-29K are twin-engine jets, the other three have a single engine.

Tarasenko said MiG has been working with Indian defence forces for more than 50 years, delivering planes and providing service.

He said the company was eager to further strengthen its relationship.

Russia has been one of India's key suppliers of arms and ammunition. Then defence minister Arun Jaitley had visited Russia in June this year during which the issue of transfer of technology and joint development of high-end military platforms and weapons systems were discussed at length.

Hard-selling MiG-29K as the best option for the Indian Navy, Tarasenko said a fleet of the aircraft had operated from Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov as part of its operations in Syria recently and showed excellent results, including in striking ground targets.

He said the MiG-29K was part of the recent Malabar exercise involving the navies of India, the US and Japan and it proved its operational prowess while operating from the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya.

Tarasenko claimed MiG-29K aircraft have serious tactical and technical advantages compared to Boeing's F/A-18.

"In addition, the MiG-29K aircraft were successfully tested in combat conditions as part of the Russian Navy's military squadron in the Mediterranean in 2016 and have a unique experience of real combat use," he said.

The US defence major has offered to set up a manufacturing facility in India for the production of its F/A - 18 Super Hornet aircraft, if the company gets contracts for their supply.

At present, the Navy operates 45 MIG-29K jets.

The RFI by the Indian Navy says the aircraft required by it should be day-and-night capable, all-weather, multi-role, deck-based combat aircraft which can be used for air defence, air-to-surface operations, buddy refuelling, reconnaissance etc. from IN aircraft carriers".

"The Indian side has sent an RFI to companies that produce aircraft, which is one of the procedures preceding the official tender. MiG corporation has received such a request, now we are preparing our proposal," Tarasenko said.

In a major step towards defence indigenisation, the Indian government had in May unveiled a "strategic partnership" model under which select private firms would be engaged along with foreign entities to build military platforms such as fighter jets, submarines and battle tanks.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 6:06 [IST]
Moved after seeing mum's photo pic pocket returns wallet

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Mohammed Aslam, a local resident, was astonished when a courier delivered him his lost wallet a few days ago. The wallet was picked in Matkewali Gali on July 25 when Aslam was visiting Delhi for his wife's treatment. He reported the theft to the Sadar Bazar police.

Moved after seeing a picture of mother in a wallet he had stolen, a pickpocket in Delhi sent the wallet back to its owner in Madhya Pradesh - albeit without the money.

It contained Rs 1,200, a PAN card, driving license, Aadhar card and some other important documents.

"I received the wallet through a courier last week. The pickpocket returned everything except Rs 1,200. He also sent a slip with his phone number on it," he said.

"When I called the number, the person on the other side said he kept Rs 1,200 as he was in need of money, but returned everything else. When asked why he returned the wallet, he said he was moved by the picture of my mother I had kept in the wallet," Aslam said.

"The pickpocket told me he also loves his mother and felt your (Aslam's) mother must be loving you a lot'", Aslam told reporters.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 6:42 [IST]
Naroda Patia case: Kodnani was in Assembly when Naroda massacre took place, Amit Shah tells court

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani was in the Gujarat Assembly at the time of Gujarat riots, BJP president Amit Shah to a special designated court on Monday.

Appeared before as Maya Kodnani's witness in the Naroda Gam riot case, Shah said that the former Gujarat minister was not present in Naroda Gam on the day riots broke out.

When asked if Maya Kodnani was present in the assembly, Shah disposed off saying, she was inside the state assembly at 8.30 am. From 9:30 am to 9:45 am I was at the Civil Hospital and I met Maya Kodnani there," Amit Shah was quoted as saying.

[What is the Naroda Patiya massacre case]

"I was not allowed entry into the post-mortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose post mortem and identification was completed. There were several Karyakartas with me, people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital,"he added.

"I was at the hospital for quite some time. I remember seeing Jaideep Patel and other leaders. I tried to pacify the crowd but they surrounded me, Police had to take me and Mayaben (Maya Kodnani) away from the spot in one of their jeeps. This was around 11 - 11:15 am," Shah said.

"I came to know about the Godhra incident only when the home minister announced it in the assembly. I don't exactly remember where I was sitting when Maya Kodnani arrived at the hospital but the police did cordon us and take us away for protection,"he further said.

"We did speak about appearing as a witness in case but the SIT has not bothered to ask me whether I was with her on February 28, 2002, or not, " he said.

On September 14, Shah was summoned by a special SIT court to appear as a defence witness for former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani, a prime accused in the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case.

Kodnani has claimed that on the day of the incident she had visited Sola civil hospital where Shah, who was an MLA at that time, was also present.

Shah is among the list of 14 defence witnesses summoned by the court. Twelve persons have already given their testimony while the thirteenth was not examined as a witness.

The massacre in Naroda Gam in Ahmedabad is one of the nine major 2002 communal riots cases which were investigated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Eleven persons belonging to the minority community were killed in Naroda Gam in the 2002 riots, during a bandh called to protest the Godhra train burning incident.

Kodnani, who was then a minister in the Narendra Modi-led state government, has already been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the case of riot at Naroda Patiya where 97 people were massacred.

OneIndia News
'Beauty is not about how you look': Mamata Banerjee apologises for Trinamool minister's comments on President

Rohingya crisis: Commoners shouldnt suffer,says Mamata Banerjee

India

oi-PTI

Following the Centre's submission to the Supreme Court that Rohingya Muslims have links with terror outfits such as ISI and ISIS, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata on Monday said that the government should ensure that commoners did not suffer.

"I think all commoners are not terrorists. There are bad people and good people in every community. There is a difference between commoners and terrorists. Commoners must not suffer because if they do then humanity will suffer. I think that in accordance with the UN verdict we should not compromise our humanity with anything else," Banerjee told reporters at the secretariat here.

The country, she said, cannot compromise with any terrorist activities. "If there is any terrorist then the Central government will take action against them," she said.

The West Bengal Chief Minister further said that the Centre has asked it to deport those, including children, of the Rohingya community who had arrived in the state. "But the Child Commission was not agreeing with the move".

"They (Centre) has asked us to deport the children and others of the Rohingyas who have come here. But Institution of child commission are not agreeing with it," she said.

The Centre told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their countinous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The Union home ministry on Monday filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court on Rohingya Muslims' deportation to Myanmar, calling them a security threat to India.

The government told the Supreme Court that the Rohingyas' continued presence in India would have serious national security ramifications.

PTI

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 23:16 [IST]
Stay off Rohingya Muslim matter, Centre tells Supreme Court

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Centre inits affidavit says presence of Rohingya Muslims in India is a drain on India's resources and a serious security threat to country. It further said that it is completely within the executive policy how to deal with illegal immigrants such as Rohingya Muslims. The affidavit was filed in response to a petition against the deportation of Rohingya Muslims from India.

Further the centre said that it has inputs from intelligence agencies about links of some Rohingya Muslims with Pakistan's ISI and Global terror networks such as the Islamic State. Further it was stated that is an organised network of touts operating in Myanmar and West Bengal and Tripura to facilitate illegal Rohingya influx. The influx started in 2012 and there are around 40,000 Rohingya Muslims in India.

In a 15 page affidavit, the Centre said that the SC should keep off the executive policy in dealing with illegal Rohingya migrants. Further the reply stated that there are intelligence inputs stating that some illegal migrants have links with Pakistan based terror groups and are trying to spread violence in India. Militant elements among Rohingyas are active in Delhi, Hyderabad, Mewar and Jammu and are posing serious threat to national security.

Recommended Video

Rohingya crisis: Centre files affidavit in SC, seeks deportation on security ground|Oneindia News

The Centre said it will place intelligence inputs in sealed cover before SC on Oct 3 to prove its claim on Rohingyas being a security threat.

The matter will next be heard on October 3. A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra had asked the Centre to clarify its position on the matter. The case came to the court following a government move to deport Rohingya.

All 7,000 Rohingya have nothing to do with terrorism, the petition also said.

The petition, filed through Mohammad Yunus, a Rohingya, described the life of the average Rohingya in Jammu. It said there had not been a single allegation of terrorism against any Rohingya ever since the community began living in Jammu. "Not a single one of them has ever engaged in any terrorist activity," the petition said.

"The local police have for over a year conducted interrogation of all the Rohingya and have taken full details of each family. The local police have inspected the settlements several times every month. All the Rohingya cooperate with the police and give them all the required information," the petition also added.

Saying that branding Rohingya as terrorists was both unfair and discriminatory, it asked the court to direct the government to treat the community with some dignity, not to displace the community, which had undergone years of persecution in their own native land of Myanmar.

"The approximately 7,000 Rohingya reside peacefully on privately owned lands rented out by Indian nationals, most of whom are Hindus. The Rohingya are paying rent to these landlords on a timely basis. None of the landlords have ever voiced any complaints or objections about the conduct of their Rohingya tenants," the petition further stated.

On Wednesday, India agreed to send humanitarian aid to the Rohingya Muslims who were displaced in Myanmar and took refuge in Bangladesh. The decision came in the wake of high-level talks during which India was appraised of the mammoth humanitarian crisis.

OneIndia News
Pradyuman murder: Why is the juvenile being tried as an adult accused

Ryan International School murder case: Court to decide if juvenile accused to be tried as adult

Ryan school murder: Accused juvenile to be tried as an adult

Ryan International School reopens for first time since students murder

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Recommended Video

Ryan International reopens today; parents come to drop kids, wary of security | Oneindia News

Ryan International School, Gurgaon, has reopened for the first time on Monday since the murder of second standard boy Pradyuman Thankur on its premises.

Parents and guardians, come to drop their children on Monday, told news agency ANI that the school should ensure the safety of students.

"From now we'll have fear in our minds till our kids would reach home. Ryan International School should look after their safety," the parent of a student said.

From now we'll have fear in our minds till our kids would reach home. #RyanInternationalSchool should look after safety: Parent of a student pic.twitter.com/B2lNTSnzUG  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

"Background check on staff should be done thoroughly; Educated people should be recruited in schools," the parent of another student said.

Background check of staff should be done thoroughly,educated ppl should be recruited in schools-Parent of a student #RyanInternationalSchool pic.twitter.com/7YbyLQu7ok  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Pradyuman, a student of Class 2, was found murdered with his throat slit on the morning of September 8 inside one of the school toilets.

Meanwhile, Union minister Maneka Gandhi, HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar, along with other officials from the CBSE, will hold high-level meeting on the safety and security of children in schools.

Since the murder of the boy reports have found that there were serious lapses in the security of the students. A two-member fact finding committee formed by the CBSE found that the bus drivers and conductors were using the same toilet facilities which otherwise should have been reserved for the students.

Last week, the Haryana governement has taken over the management of the Ryan School for three months and ordered CBI probe into the murder.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 9:16 [IST]
Safety in schools: Maneka Gandhi urges teachers to report child abuse on POCSO e-box

India

oi-Deepika S

Minister of Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi, who held a high-level meeting of officials on Monday confirmed that there would be a subsequent meeting of 6 secretaries who run various schools.

The basic objective of the meeting was to develop a set of guidelines and protocols which schools must follow so that the children remain protected from any kind of abuse or physical/mental harm.

She further stated that the parents, guardians and teachers should remain vigilant about the children as well as their behaviour and any suspected situation should be reported immediately on the Childline No.1098 and the POCSO e-Box.

While these guidelines are already in place, the exact timeslines for the implementation of the same would be decided and updated. Full report of the meeting is still awaited.

The meeting was held against the backdrop of the murder of a Class 2 student inside Ryan International School in Gurgaon for allegedly resisting sexual assault, and the rape of a five-year-old girl in a private school in Delhi's Shahdara.

OneIndia News
Across religions and faiths, Mata Vaishno Devi a blessing for the region

Security beefed up at Vaishno Devi shrine ahead of Navratra festival

India

oi-PTI

Jammu, September 18: To ensure the peaceful conduct of the nine-day Navratra festival, starting September 21, at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, foolproof security arrangements have been put in place in Katra township of Reasi district, said a top police official.

"Katra is a very important town and we have made an elaborate security plan to ensure peaceful culmination of the festivities," said Inspector General of Police (Jammu) S D Singh Jamwal.

Jamwal was speaking at a tourism department function here to unveil proposed activities at the famous shrine to attract devotees from the country and abroad.

CCTV cameras have been installed in and around the venues to keep a close watch on proceedings.

"We will be deploying our male and female constables at the venues and we will be dealing with the access control as to how the people will be mobilized at the venue. The traffic arrangements have also been put in place to ensure smooth movement," he said.

He said security arrangements have also been made en route to the venues, keeping in mind the heavy rush of devotees.

Earlier, state tourism minister Priya Sethi briefed media persons about the activities being planned during the nine-day festival.

Tourism minister Priya Sethi further said that the festival is being organised by the tourism department in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board, tourism trade industry of Katra and NGOs.

PTI

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 10:03 [IST]
Shiv Sena hints at breaking away from alliance with BJP in Maharashtra

India

oi-Anusha

The junior partner in the coalition government in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena has dropped hints of intending to snap ties with the BJP. Shiv Sena leader and MP Sanjay Raut, on Monday, minced no words in criticising the BJP for the hike in fuel prices and also claimed that "a decision (on alliance) is being taken".

Earlier in the day, Sanjay Raut tweeted that his party did not want to "share the blame" the BJP's policies that had inflated petrol and diesel prices. In a series of tweets, he expressed how it was becoming difficult to face the people over BJP's policies and distanced his party from the same.

what should we do with the Govt, Yes! Shivsena will soon take decision. wait and watch.  Sanjay Raut (@rautsanjay61) September 18, 2017

The MP's tweets came on the day Shiv Sena members were in a huddle at the party headquarters in Matoshree. "Wait and watch", was Raut's message for the people and alliance partner BJP. The Shiv Sena has been critical of the way Devendra Fadnavis government had handled various issues including the farm loan waiver scheme. Despite being a partner in the government, the party has lashed out at the state as well as the central government through its mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

Shiv Sena that is losing election after election, especially the civic body polls, to BJP has been on the backfoot in the state. The increasing proximity between the Nationalist Congress Party and the BJP has also come as a massive disappointment to the Shiv Sena. Sanjay Raut's tweets have sparked off speculations of Shiv Sena wanting to pull back from the government threatening Devendra Fadnavis' chief ministership.

The BJP, with 122 seats in the 2014 assembly elections partnered with Shiv Sena with 63 seats to form a majority-coalition government that required a simple majority of 145 seats in the assembly.

OneIndia News
'The nation exists from us and we exist from the nation', says PM Modi

Special garbage, brooms for VIPs: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or publicity stunt?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Bengaluru, Sep 18: In a busy lane in Bengaluru's Marathahalli, Varalakshmi, a pourakarmika (sweeper) who works for the civic body, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), fights massive traffic and unprecedented dust without any safety gear as a part of her job on a daily basis.

This is not just Varalakshmi's every day ritual. Like the BBMP's employee in her 50s, hundreds of her male and female colleagues negotiate several problems, including untimely salaries, to keep the city's streets spick and span.

On Sunday, when reports came in that volunteers had to arrange "garbage" for Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam so that he can clean the otherwise well-maintained area of India Gate in the national capital as a part of the fortnight-long Swachhta Hi Sewa (Cleanliness is Service) campaign, Varalakshmi could not stop her "laughter".

"What do I say? I am a poor woman and my job is to sweep and keep Bengaluru's roads clean. I have worked for more than 10 years as a pourakarmika, I have never seen any area of the city clean before I and my friends start our daily work early in the morning.

He is a minister, a VIP, this is not a job for him. But these days, we see big people like politicians, film actors and sportsmen taking up a broom and cleaning public spaces on special occasions. We appreciate their gesture to encourage others to keep their surroundings neat and clean. However, it seems most often they end up cleaning an already clean place," Varalakshmi told OneIndia.

Varalakshmi's colleague Rajamma minced no words when she said that VIPs should stop using cleanliness drive as a publicity stunt because most often their real intention comes out in the open as powerful people are always followed by their entourage with designer brooms and bins in their enthusiasm to make India clean.

Since the time Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his pet project--Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)--in 2014, VIPs and celebrities seemed to be in a race to pose in front of shutterbugs holding a broom and half-heartedly cleaning an already "sparkling" road.

"The entire Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has been diluted because it has become more of a publicity tool. The intention behind the PM's mission was good, but look at the way it has been misused for photo ops by 'famous people'," said an activist, who works closely with manual scavengers in Bengaluru.

Requesting anonymity, the activist said, "We don't need VIPs to clean roads and toilets. Sweepers and manual scavengers need better facilities and hike in salaries. Citizens too need to do their bid by keeping their surroundings clean."

Even on many occasions, when Modi took up a broom in the last three years, he was seen cleaning partially cleaned spaces with a bevy of people accompanying the PM.

During the initial days of the highly publicised Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in 2014, when VIPs were more excited to be seen as a part of the drive, a set of pictures shot outside the India Islamic Centre in New Delhi showed municipality staffers littering a pavement with garbage, only to be cleaned by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Satish Upadhayay and Shazia Ilmi.

So, what does all these say about cleanliness mission when India continues to be one of the dirtiest countries in spite of three years since the PM launched his pet project?

Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana and Uttarakhand--are the only five states in the country which are open defecation free as per a report by the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, released this year.

In rest of the states mostly in rural areas, majority of the people still don't have toilets and they relieve themselves in the open causing several life-threatening diseases including encephalitis and diarrhea, to name a few.

Moreover, India has more people in rural areas--63.4 million--living without access to clean water than any other country, according to Wild Water, State of the World's Water 2017, the latest report by WaterAid, a global advocacy group on water and sanitation.

These figures clearly indicate that India has a long way to go before becoming truly swachh (clean) in terms of availability of toilets, safe drinking water and clean surroundings.

Till then, all the television and newspaper advertisements featuring popular stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Kangana Ranaut look more like gimmicks detached from the reality where a few clean and glamorous persons are seen giving lectures to millions of poor and dirty people.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 11:51 [IST]
What to make out of Muslim-Bhagwat meet?

Those who revere cows don't turn violent even when feelings are hurt: Bhagwat

India

oi-PTI

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that those who worship cows do not turn violent even if their feelings are deeply hurt.

Rearing of cows is financially beneficial for us, he said to a question asked by a volunteer during a meeting in Jamdoli near Jaipur on Sunday.

Bhagwat, who is on a six-day tour to Rajasthan, said, "People who revere cows devote themselves to rearing cows. They do not resort to violence even if their sentiments are deeply hurt."

There have been several incidents of violence perpetrated by cow vigilantes in recent months.

To another question on use of Chinese goods, he said Swadeshi means to use items and products that are made in small and cottage industries.

"Using Swadeshi products provides employment to people. Using Swadeshi items manifest a sense of pride within," he said.

In a stern message to gau rakshaks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi June 29 had said that killing people in the name of cow protection is not acceptable.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 13:44 [IST]
What is the Naroda Patiya massacre case

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The BJP's national president, Amit Shah on Monday appeared as a witness for Maya Kodnani in the Naroda Patiya massacre case. He told the court that Kodnani was not present at Naroda Gam on the day the riots broke out.

What is the Naroda Patiya massacre case?

The Naroda Patiya massacre took place on 28 February 2002 at Naroda, in Ahmedabad. 97 Muslims were killed by a mob of approximately 5,000 people. The massacre at Naroda occurred during the bandh called by Vishwa Hindu Parishad a day after the Godhra train burning.

The riot lasted over 10 hours, during which the mob looted, stabbed, sexually assaulted, gang-raped and burnt people individually and in groups. After the conflict, a curfew was imposed in the state and army troops were called in to contain further violence.

The communal violence at Naroda was deemed "the largest single case of mass murder" during the 2002 Gujarat riots; it accounted for the greatest number of deaths during a single event.

Survivors faced socio-economic problems; many were left homeless, orphaned and injured. A number of shrines were destroyed and many schools were adversely affected, cancelled exams or closed entirely. The surviving victims were given shelter in relief camps provided by both the state and central government, and efforts were begun to restore destroyed properties and shrines.

Allegations were made against the state police, state government and the chief minister Narendra Modi, citing that government authorities were involved and various police personnel played a role in the massacre: a number of eyewitnesses reported police officers favouring the mob by allegedly injuring or killing Muslims and damaging public and private property.

All allegations were proved to be false and the government and police were cleared of wrongdoing by a Special Investigation Team. The initial report on the case was filed by the Gujarat police, accusing 46 people, all of whom the Special Court deemed unreliable. In 2008, the Supreme Court of India formed a Special Investigation Team to investigate the case.

In 2009, the team submitted its report, which accused 70 people of wrongdoing, 61 of whom were charged. On 29 August 2012, the Special Court convicted 32 people and acquitted 29 due to insufficient evidence.

Among those convicted were Maya Kodnani - former Cabinet Minister for Women and Child Development of Gujarat and former Bharatiya Janata Party MLA from Naroda - who was sentenced to 28 years imprisonment, and Bajrang Dal's Babu Bajrangi, who received a life sentence.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 11:51 [IST]
Will Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan float political party together?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Chennai, Sep 18: All these while reports have been doing the rounds that two of Tamil Nadu's most celebrated actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are likely to join politics. Although, both the actors have spoken about their interest in joining politics, none confirmed when. So, the speculations continue.

Amid all these rumours, a few political and social activists believe that both the actors should join hands to start their political career together. The political pundits feel that it would be in the interest of Tamil Nadu if the veteran stars work together in politics like they did in the film industry.

On Sunday in Puducherry, Gandhian People's Movement president Tamizharuvi Manian said Rajinikanth and Kamal should work together to save Tamil Nadu from Dravidian parties.

Manian said that Rajinikanth has already given hints about his entry into politics. "Discussions begun three months ago and it continue silently with regard to formation of a political party," Manian revealed details about Rajinikanth's entry into politics.

Regarding Kamal's political aspirations, Manian said he wished for the unity of Kamal and Rajinikanth. "Their disagreements will give another chance for the Dravidian parties to gain more power," he said.

"Kamal should join hands with Rajinikanth to bring a change by arranging some alternatives for the Dravidian parties,'' he added. He further said that Rajinikanth will capture power in the coming election with his new party.

Recently, Kamal said that he would be willing to work with Rajinikanth if the superstar ever decides to enter politics. Kamal had earlier confirmed that he was considering launching his own political party.

"Give me a signal. If Rajinikanth comes to politics we can talk, won't I join him? Though we are rivals in our industry, we consult for key issues," Kamal said in Chennai recently.

Recently, Kamal (62) met Kerala Chief Minister and CPI(M) politburo member Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram. After the meeting, Kamal said that he was considering an entry in politics and would be "in the middle of things, not leaning to any side".

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 13:41 [IST]
Zakir Musa a traitor, helping Indian Army kill our men says Hizbul

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

He is an Indian agent reads one poster in Shopina, Jammu and Kashmir. This is a poster put up by the Hizbul Mujahideen in which it blames Zakir Musa for helping Indian forces kill its men.

Musa, it may be recalled had quit the Hizbul Mujahideen and formed the Kashmir variant of the al-Qaeda. The Hizbul feels that this was a ploy by the Indian forces who are now using Musa as an informer.

The posters in Urdu prominently display Musa's face. It states Musa is the reason behind the death of many of its innocent men. This traitor is creating another outfit at the behest of the Indian government, the posters also state. At first he was part of us, but then he joined hands with the government of India, the posters also read.

Musa had quit the Hizbul in May this year. He said that Kashmir was a political problem. He also said that the Hurriyat leaders who have failed to find any solution should be hanged in public. The Hizbul leadership however distanced itself from the comments and called it the personal opinion of the terrorist.

A few weeks after he quit the outfit, the al-Qaeda's propaganda channel, Global Islamic Media Front welcomed Musa into its fold.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 10:36 [IST]
India's stand on Rohingyas gracious so far but housing them would be risky

The Rohingya influx continues as Tripura police nets seven of them

4 lakh Rohingyas take refuge in Bangladesh in 3 weeks; face food, shelter crisis: UN

International

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Dhaka, Sep 18: According to an estimate of the United Nations (UN), around four lakh Rohingya Muslims, the embattled minority fleeing violence in Myanmar, have taken refuge in Bangladesh in the last three weeks.

Since such a massive number of people are seeking shelter in Bangladesh in such a short duration of time, the entire issue has precipitated into a humanitarian crisis. Experts warn that a large number of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh are facing death because of lack of food, water and shelter.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Dipayan Bhattacharya, the acting chief in Bangladesh for the World Food Programme, a UN body working for the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, said that every day about 20,000 to 30,000 people are fleeing Myanmar and coming to Bangladesh.

Recommended Video

Rohingya Crisis: Bangladesh to build 14000 new shelters for refugees | Oneindia News

Bhattacharya added that there has been no reduction in the number of Rohingyas coming to Bangladesh on a daily basis. According to an estimate hundreds of Rohingyas have died due to adverse conditions during their journey to Bangladesh.

The UN has described the Rohingya refugee crisis as grave.

"People are terrorised, traumatised, malnourished, under physical threat and need all kinds of support. This Rohingya crisis will definitely be one of the top humanitarian crises of recent times. One has to keep in mind there were migrations, albeit in smaller numbers and duration, in the past few years as well, and overall Bangladesh now has about 8 lakh Rohingyas, including those who have come this year," Bhattacharya said.

According to various organisations working to provide food and shelter to Rohingyas, the immediate threat is to prevent the outbreak of epidemics as there has been overcrowding of refugees in Bangladesh. The refugees also need help to prevent social problems and physical harm in these grave times.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has asked Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi "a last chance" to halt an army offensive that has forced thousands of Rohingya Muslims to flee to Bangladesh.

Guterres told BBC on Saturday night that Suu Kyi had a last chance to stop the offensive.

"If she does not reverse the situation now, then I think the tragedy will be absolutely horrible, and unfortunately then I don't see how this can be reversed in the future."

The Secretary-General reiterated that the Rohingya should be allowed to return home.

He also said it was clear that Myanmar's military "still have the upper hand" in the country, putting pressure "to do what is being done on the ground" in Rakhine state where the crisis broke out on August 25 when Rohingya rebels attacked police checkposts and killed 12 security personnel.

Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is facing growing criticism over the Rohingya issue.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 7:07 [IST]
At UNSC, US calls on world to tell Russia to stop its nuclear threats

In support of Trump's South Asia policy Muhajirs hold peace rally

International

oi-PTI

Washington, September 18: In support of US President Donald Trump's new South Asia policy Members of the World Muhajir Congress have held a peace rally in front of the White House. Trump hit out at Pakistan for harbouring terrorists.

Muhajir is an Arabic-origin term used in Pakistan to describe Muslim immigrants, of multi-ethnic origin, and their descendants, who migrated from India after the Partition.

Trump in his new policy last month vowed to keep the US troops in Afghanistan so that a hasty recall did not create a void to be filled by terrorist organisations like al-Qaeda and the ISIS. He pledged to fight against all forms of terrorism and bring stability in South Asia.

Trump said that America had been paying Pakistan billions of dollars while at the same time the country was housing terror organisations that the US has been fighting against.

"We stand today in compassion with the people and government of the United States at a time when the USA and the rest of the world are facing the menace of ruthless religious extremism and terrorism," World Muhajir Congress (WMC) said in a statement yesterday.

According to WMC, about 50 million Muhajirs live in Karachi, Hyderabad and other urban areas of the Sindh province. "We collectively extend our support to the US Administration in its efforts to eliminate terror safe havens on Pakistani soil," they said.

They called for the elimination of terror sanctuaries in Pakistan. "We also express our deep sympathies with the families of victims who lost their loved ones in 9/11 terror attacks and other acts of terrorism around the globe," it said.

Leaders and activists of different political and ethnic groups from South Asia -Muhajirs, Balochs, Afghans and Indians- attended the rally. The participants held banners and placards highlighting Pakistan's role in promoting terrorism and demanded that the Trump Administration declare Pakistan a "state sponsoring terrorism".

PTI

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 11:14 [IST]
This cop from Pakistan became a millionaire overnight: Here is how

With the number of anonymous rogues from Pak rising, here's how BSF is beating down the drones

Pakistan to adopt tough diplomatic policy for US

International

oi-PTI

Pakistan is mulling for a tough diplomatic policy, if the US imposes any sanctions on it or lowers Islamabad's major non-NATO ally status over failure to crack down on militants, according to a media report.

Pakistan's new strategy comes after US President Donald Trump, while unveiling his new policy for South Asia and Afghanistan, criticised Pakistan for providing safe havens to militants. A day after Trump's announcement, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson suggested that US could downgrade Islamabad's status as a major non-NATO ally if it does not crack down on militants.

The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan government has prepared a three-option 'toughest diplomatic policy'.

According to official sources, the policy includes gradually limiting diplomatic relations with the US, reducing mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in US strategy for Afghanistan.

"The last option may include a ban on using Pakistani land for NATO supplies to Afghanistan," according to the newspaper.

The policy will be implemented after the approval of the National Security Committee.

Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan are expected to sort out their differences during the meetings between their leaders on the sidelines of UN General Assembly session starting on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi is expected to meet US Vice President Mike Pence while the foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet.

However, Pakistan will continue its actions under the Afghan reconciliation process policy. It will also maintain its policy of trying to solve issues with US through dialogue.

PTI

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 14:53 [IST]
180 Hindu organisations write to UK PM, say they are living in a state of fear

Police steps up London Tube blast probe, questions suspects

International

pti-PTI

London, Sept 18: Scotland Yard's counter-terrorism officers on Monday continued questioning the two suspects arrested in connection with last week's blast that left 30 people wounded.

They are also said to have stepped up their investigation into the "bucket bomb" on a London Underground train.

The identities of the 18-year-old and 21-year-old, being held on suspicion of terrorism offences, are yet to be officially revealed but it has emerged that both are refugees who had lived in the same foster home in Sunbury, Surrey, south-east England, which has been the focal point of police raids and searches over the weekend.

The younger man arrested at Dover ferry port on Saturday morning is an Iraqi refugee and the 21-year-old arrested later in the day has been named locally as Yahyah Farroukh, a Syrian refugee fostered by the same elderly couple from Sunbury - Penelope and Ronald Jones.

With the arrest of the suspects, the UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd announced that the country's terror treat level, which had been raised to its highest at "critical", would be lowered back to "severe" as "sufficient progress has been made" into the investigation.

"There is still much more to do but this greater clarity and this progress has led JTACt, he independent body that assesses threat, to come to the judgement that an attack is no longer imminent," said Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, the UKs National Lead for Counter-Terrorism Policing.

"The military support we have had in place under Operation Temperer will start to phase out as we move through the coming week," he said.

Farroukh was stopped by Metropolitan Police officers outside a fried chicken shop in the Hounslow area of west London on Saturday night, where searches are still ongoing. Officers were also searching an address understood to be Farroukh's current home in Stanwell, Surrey, close to Heathrow airport.

The Joneses have been respected foster parents for almost 40 years and looked after up to 300 children, including eight refugees.

"One thing I understand is that he (the 18-year-old) was an Iraqi refugee who came here aged 15 and his parents died in Iraq," said Ian Harvey, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, which covers the Sunbury area.

Of the other suspect, he added: "I think it is widely known that this person who lives at (the Stanwell) property was a former foster child at the property which was raided".

According to a Facebook profile thought to belong to Farroukh, he is originally from Damascus, in Syria, and studied English for speakers of other languages at West Thames college, near the Stanwell property. The profile also claims that he worked for an events company in London.

Meanwhile, CCTV footage has emerged of a man in a red cap in Sunbury carrying a Lidl supermarket bag, similar to the one the improvised explosive device was hidden in when it exploded on a Tube train in west London's Parsons Green station on September 15 morning, injuring 30 people. The man was seen on camera leaving a house which police later searched. A key aspect of the investigation has focused on CCTV, with officers combing through footage to establish who planted the device, and when and where it was placed on the train.

PTI
Rohingya refugees pose security threat: Bangladesh minister

International

oi-PTI

Recommended Video

Rohingya Crisis: Bangladesh says it's both a humanitarian

Underling the possibility of links between Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and foreign terrorist organisations, Bangladesh Minister Mohammed Shahriar Alam on Monday said the Rohingya crisis is both a humanitarian and security issue.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has condemned the attacks on Myanmar security forces in Rakhine state, he said, adding "We condemn the attacks (on Myanmar security forces) and we will continue to do so in the future."

According to the UN estimates, over 3,79,000 Rohingyas have fled Myanmar's Rakhine state and arrived in Bangladesh since the militants' attacks on Myanmar security forces on August 25 sparked a major military backlash.

About the security aspect of the Rohingya issue, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs said, "We are not aware of any linkages because it is taking place in a foreign land".

"But this terrorist organisation, if not linked, may be inspired by other terrorist forces and we don't reject the idea of they being linked to foreign terrorist organisations," Alam said.

Bangladesh, which is facing a big influx of Rohingyas, has called on the international community to intervene and put pressure on Myanmar to address the issue.

Alam, however, said as of now, the influx of Rohingyas from Myanmar will not have an impact on Bangladesh's economy.

"We don't feel that this will have an impact. As our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said if the country can take care of its own population then it can also take care of eight - 10 lakh (Rohingyas)," he said.

"She (Hasina) had said that on humanitarian grounds. But we don't want to see this (influx) continue. We want a solution to the problem," Alam said.

Meanwhile, the Union government on Monday submitted an affidavit in the Supreme Court on Rohingyas, saying the illegal migrants from Myanmar pose a threat to national security.

PTI

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2017, 18:03 [IST]
Sky News 13 Nov 2022

Dua Lipa has denied reports she will be performing at the World Cup opening ceremony, saying she will only visit host nation Qatar..
 2008-2022 One News Page Ltd.

All rights reserved.

One News is a registered trademark

of One News Page Ltd.
In the week ending 15 September, 2017, in FinTech, hedge funds are hacking blockchains to guide them in their cryptocurrency investments. There are now more than 68 crypto hedge funds focused specifically on digital currencies, and they have raised about $800 million and aim to raise $1.2bn. If the current pace continues, there would be some 150 or so cryptocurrency hedge funds in the already crowded space by the end of this year. The Chinese authorities' shut down of domestic bitcoin exchanges has delivered a final blow to a once-thriving industry there. Also, investment managers who attended the Delivering Alpha Conference all hated bitcoin. Meanwhile, hedge Project announced the sale of token as it builds its crypto-investment tools, Finles Capital announced that pre-order subscriptions for its FundCoin ICO are now open, but bearish investors have started to target ways to bet that the cryptocurrency mania would implode. Kyle Bass said he believes that bitcoin, as a digital asset and currency, is here to stay; a survey by Bank of America Merrill Lynch has found that bitcoin is the mo...................... To view our full article Click here
Opalesque Industry Update - The Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investing released the Climate Change Mitigation Opportunities Index, a report and interactive tool investors can use to examine the risks and opportunities of climate change mitigation investments. The index seeks to evaluate technology investment opportunities, both on their impact on mitigating climate change and their potential for market-rate returns. With input from a panel of experts, the Institute, with The Economist Intelligence Unit, identified five sectors (energy, transportation, industry, agriculture and the built environment), which are responsible for 90 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. The index is then applied across 20 countries selected to illustrate climate change mitigation opportunities across a range of geographies and economies. The index considers country-level conditions such as sector maturity, infrastructure, political environment and other enabling factors in order to inform investors about specific opportunities and risks. The threats posed by climate change require that we adapt to a new reality of severe weather, rising resource costs and increased risk. But underpinning a successful adaptation strategy is the need for mitigation ? reducing emissions to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Across all sectors, innovation is driving efficiency and productivity. "As we experience the short- and long-term impacts of climate change, there are many opportunities available to investors who are interested in using their capital to create a more sustainable future," said Hilary Irby, Co-Head of the Global Sustainable Finance group at Morgan Stanley. "This index strives to provide a deeper understanding of the range of technologies and types of investments that can help mitigate climate change, and where those investments are likely to have the greatest environmental impact and financial reward." Key findings from the Climate Change Mitigation Opportunities Index report: - The international climate policy outlook is uncertain, especially with the United States' announcement that it will withdraw from the Paris Agreement, but corporations and other public leaders are tightening their focus on climate change mitigation, adding market impetus for investment. - The clean energy outlook remains strong in emerging markets with their growing energy demand, rising emissions and pollution concerns, and falling clean tech prices. - Rapid urbanization, environmental concerns and demand for cost efficiency are creating substantial opportunities in the green buildings sector. - Agriculture technologies for climate mitigation are coming to the forefront after years of neglect. In advanced economies ? that are both able to afford mitigation technologies and have sophisticated investment markets ? growth opportunities lie in the substitution of clean for dirty infrastructure. These countries dominate the top of the overall index rankings. - Mitigation across sectors is interconnected and investments in one sector can reduce emissions in others. "This new index shows that there is tremendous potential for investors to focus on technology to mitigate climate change," said Samantha Grenville, Senior Consultant at The Economist Intelligence Unit. "By providing data-driven analysis in five sectors ? energy, transportation, industry, agriculture and the built environment ? we hope the index can inform investors about specific opportunities and risks." The Climate Change Mitigation Opportunities Index is the second in a two-part study that seeks to equip investors with data-driven tools to identify sustainable investment opportunities in support of two outcomes ? mitigating climate change and driving inclusive growth. Published in May 2017, the Inclusive Growth Opportunities Index uncovers insights about the opportunity for technology investments to promote inclusion across financial services, education, healthcare and gender themes. Press release. Bg To explore the Climate Change Mitigation Opportunities Index 2017 in detail, click here: Article source - Opalesque is not responsible for the content of external internet sites
Opalesque Industry Update - Emergence, the incubator and accelerator for entrepreneurial managers in the Paris market, and NewAlpha Asset Management, the SICAV's delegated manager, have announced the selection of VIA AM(1) as the first investment by Emergence's new European equities fund, launched in June 2017 with a target of 300 million, now closed to subscriptions. Emergence will put 50 million into the fund VIA Smart Equity Europe the biggest investment made by Emergence since its inception in 2012. The VIA Smart Equity fund was launched in March 2016 and targets long-term outperformance of the MSCI Europe, net dividends reinvested, with a similar risk profile. This injection will take the VIA Smart Equity Europe fund above 150 million of AUM, giving it critical mass to build up its base with international investors, and will add the cach of the Emergence label awarded by the SICAV's Investment Committee composed of France's leading institutional investors. VIA AM has developed systematic equity and absolute return strategies based on proprietary technology that systematically analyses the economic and accounting data of 3,000 listed companies across the world (including 600 in Europe). The approach yields an exceptionally objective financial analysis and facilitates inter-company comparisons. This "economic accounting" gives a better analysis of companies' profitability and value before any selection across a very wide universe. Accounting standardisation means VIA AM can limit risks of errors of judgement and free itself from reliance on traditional accounting ratios. Less than 18 months after its creation, the company now has a range of 4 funds (European, US and global equity and multi-strategy absolute return) with a total of more than 450 million under management. Thanks to its founders' track record and distribution through Eric Sturdza Group, VIA has attracted interest from investors mainly based in France, Switzerland and Luxembourg who have contributed to the firm's rapid growth. VIA AM was set up in 2015 in France with the support of Eric Sturdza Group and by its founders Guillaume Dolisi, Laurent Pla and Mauricio Zanini. Guillaume and Laurent have together successfully developed a number of systematic investment strategies at BNP Paribas CIB, having worked respectively as head of Long/Short Equity trading and head of quantitative research at Socit Gnrale Securities. The third partner, Mauricio Zanini set up his own research house after 10 years' experience with Deutsche Bank in accounting restatement. Like their previous investments with young French investment management firms, the partnership between Emergence, NewAlpha and VIA AM offers investors in the Emergence SICAV a combination of performance by a selected fund and a stake in its expansion through a revenue-sharing mechanism. VIA AM is the 16th company to be incubated or accelerated by Emergence through its three sub-funds dedicated to equity and absolute return. Since 2012, Emergence has raised and invested 670 million. The selected managers, who are now Emergence partners, have seen AUM grow by 2.4 times following the SICAV's investment. They currently manage around 5.2 billion, 55% of which comes from international investors. The Emergence initiative helps bolster the reputation of French entrepreneurial managers and boosts the attractiveness of the Paris market as a competitive location for the European asset management industry.
Opalesque Industry Update - Alcentra Limited and Alcentra NY, the alternative fixed income specialist for BNY Mellon Investment Management (IM), today announced the appointment of Vijay Rajguru as Co-Chief Investment Officer. He will report directly to David Forbes-Nixon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and work alongside Chief Investment Officer and President Paul Hatfield. Vijay will oversee Alcentra's global direct lending and loan businesses in Europe and the US, with a particular focus on growing the US direct lending and loans function as part of Alcentra's growth plans in the US. He will also lead the capital markets activities. David Forbes-Nixon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Alcentra, said: "I am excited about the growth prospects for Alcentra given our global platform and industry leading capabilities and Vijay is a strong addition to the firm. He broadens and deepens the leadership team and brings significant experience as we look to expand our business in the US direct lending and loans space. "Vijay will also be responsible for Alcentra's capital markets activities where he will utilise his previous extensive experience working with private equity houses, banks and legal advisers." Vijay joins Alcentra from GoldenTree Asset Management, where he was a partner, having joined the firm in 2007. His responsibilities included sourcing and originating loan, bond and structured credit investments, as well as restructuring stressed and distressed assets. Prior to GoldenTree, Vijay was Managing Director, and Head of Loan Capital Markets at Barclays Capital, where he worked in leveraged finance for over a decade. He started his career as a banker at Chase Manhattan Bank. Alcentra is a global asset management firm with assets under management of approximately $33bn. Alcentra has an investment track record that dates back to 1998. Strategies include: senior loans, high yield bonds, direct lending, structured credit, distressed debt, and multi-strategy credit. Alcentra is owned by The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation and is headquartered in London, with offices in New York and Boston.
Opalesque Industry Update - The Abraaj Group, a leading investor operating in global growth markets, today announced the appointment of Kito de Boer as Managing Partner. Mr. de Boer has over 30 years' experience across diverse geographies and sectors. In 2014, Mr. de Boer was appointed by US Secretary of State John Kerry to become Head of Mission of the Office of the Quartet based in Jerusalem with a specific focus on the economic track of the Middle East Peace Process. Mr. de Boer assumed overall leadership when former Prime Minister Tony Blair stepped aside as Quartet Representative. Prior to this diplomatic posting, Mr. de Boer spent 29 years with McKinsey & Co. based in London, New Delhi and Dubai. Mr. de Boer was one of the initial team of Partners that created the India Practice in 1993 and went on to found and lead the Middle East Practice in 1999 and the Global Government Practice in 2009. Mr. de Boer was Head of the Public and Social Sector Practice for EMEA from 2009 onwards. Mr. de Boer will oversee Abraaj's Impact Investing business and will spearhead the Group's global efforts to deploy private capital as a means of tackling some of the world's most pressing challenges. According to the Business and Sustainable Development Commission, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present at least US$ 12 trillion of investable opportunities and could create 380 million new jobs by 2030. Abraaj's Impact Investing line of business is aligned to the SDGs and is currently focused on accessible healthcare and clean energy in growth markets. Arif Naqvi, Founder and Group Chief Executive of The Abraaj Group said, "For us, investing with impact is core to the markets in which we operate. There is a real opportunity for businesses to positively address and deliver on the SDGs. Throughout his distinguished career, Kito has demonstrated both a commitment to these aspirations and a professional excellence that matches our own. I am confident his experience will help guide our goals to expand and grow this increasingly important line of business." Mr. de Boer added, "I am delighted to be joining Abraaj. To be relevant as a leader in the next era of Impact Investing is to be material. The challenge of funding the UN Sustainable Development Goals is one of scale. Meeting this funding challenge will demand an investment platform with the combination of scope to penetrate those geographies and sectors most in need of capital, performance credibility based on track record, and a values system that will nurture partnerships across the ecosystem of sectors - public, private, philanthropic and development. Not only is Abraaj preeminent - no other Firm has the relevant scope, credibility and values - but more importantly, it has the vision and will to demonstrate that high performing capitalism can and must do good in addition to doing well."
Sodium polyacrylate Market - Market Future Growth Opportunities | 2025

Sodium polyacrylate Market

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sodium-polyacrylate-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=20444

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=20444

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

http://marketresearchreports2017.blogspot.in

Sodium polyacrylate, or waterlock as it is commonly known, is a polymer of polyacrylic acid. It is a widely used super-absorbing polymer. As the name waterlock suggests, the compound has the ability to absorb several hundred times of its mass in water as well as other liquid mixtures. It is not a naturally-occurring polymer and is manufactured synthetically. It is widely used in consumer products and in the industrial sector as a binding agent, emulsion stabilizer, film former, and viscosity-controlling agent.It was first developed by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) about 50 years ago and was used in diapers that astronauts could wear while they were on long space trips. Since then, several other uses of the polymer have been discovered. For example, agriculture grade sodium polyacrylate is used to water the plants in an efficient manner. When plants need water, their roots move closer to the polymer and absorb water from it. Sodium polyacrylate is commonly used in sanitary products such as baby diapers and pet pads. It is employed as a thickening agent in consumer products such as hair gels, upholstery, carpets, and paints. It is also used as a thickening agent in the medical industry for different medical gels. One of its interesting applications is in the coatings industry. Electric wirings are provided with coatings containing sodium polyacrylate so as to make them waterproof. Sodium polyacrylate absorbs water or moisture before it reaches electric wires. Similar uses include anti-flood bags, ice-bags, and artificial snow. One of its recent applications is in the building sector, where it can be used as an internal sealant in chemical-based materials. According to its usage, the global sodium polyacrylate market can be segmented by the type of its application, namely as a water-absorbent, thickening agent and water-repellent.Obtain Report Details @While sodium polyacrylate has several advantages, there are also a few limitations associated with the polymer. For example, it can be highly toxic when inhaled or ingested. It can also cause mild irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. In 1985, use of sodium polyacrylate in tampons was stopped, as it caused unacceptable levels of irritation to women. However, in total, advantages of the polymer significantly outweigh its drawbacks.Various industries wherein sodium polyacrylate is used (for example, medical, sanitary, agriculture, consumer products, coatings, building materials, and electrical), are expanding at a significant rate. Due to this, the global sodium polyacrylate market has also been expanding at a significant pace. The trend is expected to continue in the next few years. Apart from these existing markets and industries, one of the driving factors behind this growth will be that, even though the polymer has been around for a long time, new applications in new industries are continuously being developed. Accordingly, the market can be segmented by end-user industries.Browse Full Report With ToC @Some of the well-known suppliers of sodium polyacrylate include Covestro (Germany), RSD Polymers Pvt. Ltd., Powder Pack Chem (India), Zhengzhou Wade Water Treatment Material Co. Ltd., Beijing Cheng Yi Chemical Co., Ltd., Dongying Naxing Trading Co., Ltd., and Hebei Yan Xing Chemical Co., Ltd. (China). While suppliers and distributors are spread across the world, a majority of them can be found in the Asia Pacific region. In terms of consumption, North America and Asia Pacific account for a major share of the market, followed by Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. As such, the global sodium polyacrylate market can be segmented by regions of North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.Make an Enquiry @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 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:
Download Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market and Clinical Trials Insight 2023 Report

https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-global-human-papillomavirus-infection-drug-market-and-clinical-trials-insight-2023.php

https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-global-human-papillomavirus-infection-drug-market-and-clinical-trials-insight-2023.php

Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market and Clinical Trials Insight 2023 report gives comprehensive insight on the ongoing market and clinical development in HPV drug market. Report highlights the trends in the global HPV drug market and gives detailed overview on the HPV drug clinical pipeline by phase, drug class and mode of action. As per report findings, there are 9 HPV drugs commercially available in the market and 78 drugs are in multiple phases of clinical pipeline. Majority of the HPV drugs are in Preclinical phase of development followed by Phase-II clinical trials.In the past decade, there have been remarkable advances in the understanding of the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its role as the major risk factor in the development of cervical and other anogenital cancers, which has led to increased research and development in the HPV drug segment; thus leading to the introduction of excellent and promising therapeutics in the Human Papilloma virus drug segment.Among the various therapeutics currently available for Human Papilloma virus infection, is the Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine which is currently the dominant form of medication in the HPV therapeutic segment. These Vaccines are considered to be the most superior kinds of therapeutics due to their ability to provide long term protection from Human Papilloma Virus. Apart from being safe and effective, these have been in wide use in the vaccination of preteen girls and boys in US and other developed countries to ensure their long term protection and prevention from exposure to the Human Papilloma virus.Further, these vaccines also ensure high efficacy in preventing genital warts, anal cancer, cervical cancer, vulvar cancer and vaginal cancer which are widely known to be caused by certain types of human papilloma virus. It has also been used in the prevention of lesions that are caused by the Human Papilloma virus which can lead to the above mentioned complications.Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market and Clinical Trials Insight 2023 Report Highlights:* Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Market Analysis* Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market Dynamics* Clinical Insight on Approved Drugs for Treating Human Papillomavirus Infection* Global Human papillomavirus Infections Drug Clinical Pipeline by Company and Phase* Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market Future PerspectiveFor Report Sample Contact: neeraj@kuickresearch.comReport Weblink:The next decade in research against HPV infections should be geared up to fill in gap in knowledge of HPV gene expression and its regulation. The future treatment approaches is coupled with application of next generation sequencing and proteomic technologies, screening of new, more extensive small molecule libraries to look for molecule inhibitory to either the virus replication cycle or to tumor formation. The RNA based therapies should advance the prospects of new anti-HPV treatments to improve the disease.The increase in understanding of new drugs, development of new adjuvants along with increasing funding from private and public sector will drive the growth of HPV infection drug market in near future. It is expected that there will be more efforts involved in the RandD and commercialization of therapeutic HPV vaccines driven by the increasing prevalence of HPV associated malignancies across the globe.For Report Sample Contact: neeraj@kuickresearch.comReport Weblink:1. Introduction to Human Papillomavirus Infection1.1 Overview1.2 Pathogenicity and Diversity of Human Papillomavirus1.2.1 Alpha Papillomaviruses1.2.2 Beta Papillomaviruses1.2.3 Gamma Papillomaviruses2. Pathophysiology of Human Papillomavirus2.1 Life Cycle of Human Papillomavirus2.1.1 Primary Infection of Epidermis Layer2.1.2 Genome Maintenance2.1.3 Proliferative Phase2.1.4 Viral Genome Amplification2.1.5 Virus Assembly and Release2.2 Molecular Mechanism of Human Papillomavirus to Induce Disease3. Response of Immune System Against Human Papillomavirus3.1 Innate Immunity3.2 Adaptive Immunity4. Clinical Management Strategies Against Human Papillomavirus Infection4.1 Vaccination Approach for Human Papillomavirus4.2 Therapeutic Drugs Targets4.2.1 Interferon4.2.2 RNA Interference based Therapies4.2.3 Natural or Herbal Derivatives5. Emerging Therapies for Treatment of Infection5.1 Live Vector based Vaccines5.2 Protein or Peptide based Vaccines5.3 Nucleic Acid based Vaccines5.4 Whole Cell based Vaccines6. Approved Drugs for Treating Human Papillomavirus Infection: Clinical, Drug Class and Patent Insight6.1 Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Recombinant Quadrivalent (Gardasil and Silgard)6.2 Interferon alpha-2b (Intron A, Viraferon and Virtron)6.3 Tretinoin (Acnisdin Retinoico, Avita, Dermojuventus, Loderm Retinoico, Retirides, Vesanoid, Vitamin-A Acid and Vitanol)6.4 Imiquimod (Aldara, Beselna Cream 5%, Vyloma and Zyclara)6.5 Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Recombinant Bivalent (Cervarix)6.6 Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Recombinant Nonavalent (GARDASIL9)6.7 Interferon-alpha-n3 (Alferon LDO, Alferon N, Alferon N Gel, Alferon N Injection, Alferon N LDO, Altemol and Naturaferon)6.8 Polyphenon E (Polyphenon E and Veregen)6.9 Interferon Gamma Biosimilar (Ingaron)7. Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Market Analysis7.1 Introduction to Infectious Disease Market7.2 Global Human Papillomavirus Market Analysis8. Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market Dynamics8.1 Favorable Parameters8.2 Challenges to Market Growth9. Global Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Market Future Perspective10. Global Human papillomavirus Infections Drug Clinical Pipeline by Company and Phase10.1 Research10.2 Preclinical10.3 Phase-I10.4 Phase-I/II10.5 Phase-II10.6 Phase-II/III10.7 Phase-III11. Competitive Landscape11.1 3M Pharmaceuticals11.2 Aclaris Therapeutics11.3 Mylan Pharmaceuticals11.4 Biogen Idec11.5 Cutanea Life Sciences11.6 Hemispherx11.7 Inovio Pharmaceuticals11.8 ISA Pharmaceuticals11.9 Lees Pharmaceutical Holdings11.10 MedImmune11.11 Merck11.12 Nielsen BioSciences11.13 NovanFigure 1-1: Structural Components of Viral ParticlesFigure 1-2: Fundamental Constituents of Human PapillomavirusFigure 1-3: Classification and Diversity of Human PapillomavirusFigure 2-1: Life Cycle of Human Papillomavirus to Cause the InfectionFigure 2-2: Multistep Model of Cancer Development by Human PapillomavirusFigure 3-1: HPV Infection Model and Activation of Innate Immune ResponseFigure 3-2: Adaptive Immune Response to Human Papillomavirus InfectionFigure 4-1: Clinical Management Strategies for Treating Human Papillomavirus InfectionsFigure 4-2: HPV L1 VLP Vaccine Mechanism of ActionFigure 4-3: Response of Interferons with Human PapillomavirusFigure 7-1: Global andndash; Infectious Disease Diagnostic Market Growth Estimation (US$ Million), 2016-2023Figure 7-2: Global Infectious Therapeutics Market Growth (US$ Billion), 2016-2023Figure 7-3: Global Viral Infections Market Growth Estimation (US$ Billion), 2016-2023Figure 7-4: Global - HPV Therapeutics Market (US$ Billion), 2016-2023Figure 7-5: Global - Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Pipeline by Phase (%), 2017 till 2023Figure 7-6: Global - Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug Pipeline by Phase (Number), 2017 till 2023Figure 7-7: Global andndash; Active and Inactive Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug in Pipeline by Phase (%), 2017 till 2023Figure 7-8: Global andndash; Active and Inactive Human Papillomavirus Infection Drug in Pipeline by Phase (Number), 2017 till 2023Figure 8-1: Global - Favorable Parameters to Human Papilloma Virus Market GrowthFigure 8-2: Global - Challenges to Human Papilloma Virus Infection DevelopmentList of TablesTable 3-1: List of RNA Studies Targeting HPV E6 and E7Table 3-2: Molecular Targeting HPV and Host Cellular Factors Interaction Using Natural and Herbal DerivativesKuick Research is a market research and analytics company that provides targeted information for critical decisions at business, product and service levels. We are quick, predictive and known by the recommendations we have made in the past. Our result-oriented research methodology offers understanding of multiple issues in a short period of time and gives us the capability to keep you full with loads of practical ideas. By translating research answers into strategic insight and direction, we not only rate the success potential of your products and/or services, but also help you identify the opportunities for growth in new demographies and find ways to beat competition.Kuick ResearchNew Delhi - 110001India+91-11-47067990
Hernia Repair Devices Market Rugged Expansion Foreseen by 2021

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/3603

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/3603

http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

Hernia refers to the projection of a viscus or part of a viscus through an abnormal opening in the walls of its containing cavity. As compared to others, hernia is more common is geriatric population. Hernia may be of many types depending on its location, such as femoral hernia, umbilical hernia, paraumbilical hernia, epigastric hernia, lumber hernia and others. Different approaches may be followed for treatment of different type of hernia.Surgery is commonly recommended for treatment of most types of hernias. It is done to prevent complications such as obstruction of bowel or strangulation of tissue. Hernia repair devices refer to the medical devices that are used of treatment of hernia. The global hernia repair devices market is growing at a significant rate due to increase in the hernia cases and growing awareness for the same. On the basis of products and segments, the hernia repair devices market can be segmented into polymers, biologic materials, surgical instruments, endoscopy equipment and prosthetic mesh. On the basis of procedures, the hernia repair devices market can be segmented into open-tension repair, tension repair laproscopic tension-free repair and others.A sample of this report is available upon request @North America dominates the global hernia repair devices market due to increasing prevalence of hernia disorder cases and improved healthcare facilities in the region. In addition, government initiatives and more awareness among the people are some of the major factors driving the hernia repair devices market. Asia, followed by Europe, is expected to experience high growth rate in the next few years in hernia repair devices market. China and India are expected to be the fastest growing hernia repair devices markets in Asian region. This is due to large investment by various major companies in these countries. Some of the key driving forces for hernia repair devices market in emerging countries are large pool of patients, rising government funding and improvement in the healthcare facilities.Some of the various factors driving the global hernia repair devices market are increasing geriatric population and rising demand for advanced biologic meshes. In addition, increased adoption of tension-free hernia repair procedures and growing awareness for availability of different hernia repair devices are driving the global hernia repair devices market. However, high cost involved and lack of skilled professionals are some of the major factors restraining the global hernia repair devices market.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Growing demographics and economies in the developing countries such as India and China are expected to offer good opportunities for global hernia repair devices market. In addition, growing awareness and innovation of some new type of medications with better efficiency are expected to offer good opportunity for global hernia repair devices market. Some of the recent trends that have been observed in the global hernia repair devices market include shifting focus towards composite mesh. In addition, it has been observed that companies dealing with hernia repair devices are involved in mergers and acquisitions. Some of the major companies dealing in the global hernia repair devices market are B.Braun Melsungen AG, Cook Medical, Inc. and Covidien Plc. Some other companies having significant presence in the global hernia repair devices market are C. R. Bard, Inc., Ethicon, Inc., Life Cell Corporation, Olympus Corporation and W.L.Gore & Associates.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Global Precision Medicine Market To Be worth US$ 172.95 Bn by 2024-End

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/precision-medicine-market/toc

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/12646

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/12646

www.persistencemarketresearch.com

The latest report published by Persistence Market Research titled Global Market Study on Precision Medicine: Drug Discovery Technology Segment Estimated to Witness 0.1% Decline in Market Share Between 2016 and 2024". projects some of the crucial aspects of the global precision medicine market after an in-depth research. The report assures that the market will grow manifold and it will register a 14.7% CAGR between 2016 and 2024.Global Precision Medicine Market: The PropellersThe global expansion of the medicine industry will expand the canvas of the global precision market. Larger investments, better infrastructure, simplified approval process of drugs along with companion diagnostics will impact the structure of the entire climate of the global precision medicine market. The affordable DNA profiling, the bloating cancer population of the globe will create a favorable condition of growth for the global precision medicine market. The proper storage of genome data plays a crucial part in this segment. The emergence of data backed medicare will also drive the global precision market ahead.View and Download TOC of Precision Medicine Market Research Report@But the market is combating acute data storage and data privacy issues and it also lacks in systematic approach towards funding and soaring prices of personalized drugs is also creating a blockade in the expansion of the global precision medicine market.Global Precision Medicine Market: Market AutopsyThe global precision medicine market is bifurcated into multiple parent segments which are further sub-categorized. The primary division of the market is an assimilation of three, region, technology and application. The major technologies which will define the market character in the forthcoming years are bioinformatics, next-gen sequencing and drug discovery technology. The applications segment will showcase fruitful results and oncology will act as the showstopper. The market prediction shows that this segment will bloom and will touch an approximate value of US$ 69 Bn by the end of the assessment period. The approximate registered CAGR of this segment within the assessed period will be above 13.5%. The global population is struggling with some of the acute diseases such as arthritis. A large slice of the aged population is an easy prey of this crippling ailment. The immunology segment will reap maximum benefits from the population affected by arthritis. The immunology segment will gain revenue from the market and the market worth will cross US$ 34 Mn by the end of 2024.Request and Download Sample Report@Global Precision Medicine Market: Regional ScrutinyThe regional market arena has penetrated through different key regions of the globe. The global precision medicine market has extended its boundaries in the last few years. The product has a massive global presence and it is expanding steadily. Apart from North America, Europe, MEA, Latin America and Asia Pacific regions are other major pockets which are expected to show fruitful outcome in the forthcoming years. The global precision medicine market is expected to perform well in the North American region and it will occupy more than 35% of the market share within the period of prediction.The global precision market in North America will flourish and will probably touch the approximate market value of more than US$ 60 Mn by 2024 end. With a stupendous performance the US and Canada will conquer a lion share of the global precision medicine market of this region predicts the report. The Europe is a consistent market and will crawl up the revenue chart within the forecast period. The global precision market in Europe will ride an estimated CAGR of more than 13% to sew up an average worth of more than US$ 40 Mn by the end of 2024. In Europe the markets spread across Germany and France will shape the destiny of this market. Apart from this the countries such as Spain, UK and Italy will also follow the leading pack during the period of assessment. The APAC region is the rising star of the global precision medicine market.The region will project a CAGR of more than 14% during the period of projection. The market will witness a staggering hike and will touch approximately US$ 35 Mn by the end of 2024. In the APAC region Japan will spearhead the market, China and India will lock horns to accumulate maximum market share during the projected period. The region of Latin America will score considerable revenue during this period. MEA will be a sulking market as less of research activities will dampen the spirit of the precision medicine market.Global Precision Medicine Market: Comparative LandscapeThe market is evolving fast with the better and bigger market tie-ups. The bonhomie between IT and healthcare is also expediting the market and providing a bigger playground to the stakeholders. Novartis AG, Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, Eli Lilly And Company, AstraZeneca are contributing massively in the overall development of the global precision medicine market.Buy Full Precision Medicine Market Report@About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a U.S.-based full-service market intelligence firm specializing in syndicated research, custom research, and consulting services. PMR boasts market research expertise across the Healthcare, Chemicals and Materials, Technology and Media, Energy and Mining, Food and Beverages, Semiconductor and Electronics, Consumer Goods, and Shipping and Transportation industries. The company draws from its multi-disciplinary capabilities and high-pedigree team of analysts to share data that precisely corresponds to clients business needs.PMR stands committed to bringing more accuracy and speed to clients business decisions. From ready-to-purchase market research reports to customized research solutions, PMRs engagement models are highly flexible without compromising on its deep-seated research values.ContactPersistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.commedia@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Biscuits Market in Switzerland to Cross US$1 bn by 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/switzerland-biscuits-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=13865

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The biscuits market is a huge market as compared to other packaged food markets. Biscuits contain nutritional components which include carbohydrates, fats, and fibers which are essential to human health. The nutritional value of biscuits has made them a highly preferred breakfast meal worldwide. Biscuits are easy to carry, store, and can be consumed as per preference. These aspects make them a convenient food product which are consumed and enjoyed by people of every age group. Biscuits can be consumed along with beverages like tea and coffee or as it is. Premium quality biscuits contain a rich taste and flavor and are heavily consumed.Browse Market Research Report @The Switzerland biscuits market has been segmented by ingredients, products, and age group type. In terms of ingredients, the market has been segmented into flour, sugar, butter, chocolate, milk, cream, and others. Others ingredients segment includes nuts, salt, flavor agents and vegetable oil among others. Flour is by far the largest segment by ingredients due to its diversified application in preparation of biscuits, whereas chocolate and milk are expected to be fast growing ingredient segments. Flour ingredient segment dominates the market share in terms of revenue as well as volume. In terms of product type, the market has been segmented into: rich tea biscuits, bourbon biscuits, plain biscuits, chocolate coated biscuits, filled biscuits, and others. Others products segment includes speculaas and wafers among others. In terms of revenue, a chocolate coated biscuit is the largest segment by product type; however, bourbon biscuits also hold significant market share owing to the growing popularity of chocolate flavor cream based biscuits.In addition, rich tea biscuits are low fat, low calorie, and high fiber snacking alternatives; thus, this segment is expected to become popular among senior Swiss consumers who are conscious about their health. In terms of age group, the biscuits market has been segmented into: 5  10 age group, 11  19 age group, 20  30 age group, 31  40 age group, and 41 and above age group. In terms of revenue, 20-30 years age group consumers dominate the Switzerland biscuits market. Whereas, 5-10 age group consumers in Switzerland is expected to be the fastest growing segment over the forecast period. Children of age group 5-10 enjoy cream-filled biscuits and different flavor of wafers. Chocolate coated biscuits, jam filled or cream filled biscuits are very popular among this age group.Fill the form to gain deeper insights on this market @Increasing retail outlets and strengthening retail network is anticipated to be the most prominent driver for the Switzerland biscuits market. Organized retailing and marketing and effective branding by vendors is expected to open new market opportunities for the biscuits market in Switzerland. Increasing capital investments is the major driver of the retail sector.In this report, detail analysis of major driving factors along with key restraints and opportunities (DROs) of the Switzerland biscuits market are covered. The research study analyzed the ongoing market trends and provides details forecast for the period from 2016 to 2024. In addition, major suppliers and manufacturers in this industry are listed in the scope of the report. Price trend analysis for different product types in this biscuits industry would help the market players to understand the different factors that are influencing on the average unit price of biscuits. Average unit prices of biscuits remained unchanged in 2015 and this is expected to increase marginally over the forecast period. Due to the strong position of the Swiss franc, domestic manufacturers faced a heavy burden not only in exports, but also from the intense price competition by imports from European countries. The increasing number of imported biscuits as well as the strong position of private label products reduced the average unit price in many categories. However, the volatile commodity prices of cereals, cocoa and nuts lifted the prices of other categories, most notably chocolate coated biscuits.Major players in the biscuits market include Kambly SA, Wernli AG, Walkers Shortbread Ltd,Kagi Sohne AG., Lefevre-Utile, Barilla G. e R. Fratelli S.p.A, Nestle S.A., Lotus Bakeries N.V., Burtons Food, Confiserie Sprungli AG, Midor AG, HUG AG, United Biscuit among others. This report would help the biscuits manufacturer, suppliers and distributer to estimate and analyze the demand and consumption of biscuits across the Switzerland.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Biological Drugs is Likely to Witness a Healthy CAGR Growth of 10.1% Throughout 2014-2020

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/medical-fiber-optics-market/toc

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/2997

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/2883

http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

According to a new market report published by Persistence Market Research Global Market Study on Biological Drugs: North America to Witness Highest Growth By 2020, the global biological drugs market was valued at US$ 161,056.5 Mn in 2014 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.1% from 2014 to 2020, to reach US$ 287,139.7 Mn by 2020.Biological drugs are typically derived from living cells and are used in the prevention and treatment of various diseases such as cancer, blood disorders, auto-immune diseases, and other medical disorders. Biological drugs have more complex structures compared to that of conventional drugs.Globally, the biological drugs market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and growing geriatric population. In addition, health and awareness initiatives by various government associations are also supporting the growth of the biological drugs market. However, high costs of biological drugs and patent expiry of blockbuster drugs impede the growth of the biological drugs market. Moreover, risks of adverse effects associated with biologic injectable drugs also inhibit the growth of the market.View and Download TOC of Biological Drugs Market Research Report @The global biological drugs market is anticipated to grow from an estimated US$ 161,056.5 Mn in 2014 to US$ 287,139.7 Mn by 2020 at a CAGR 10.1% during the forecast period.North America dominates the global biological drugs market. This is due to increasing use of biological drugs in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases in the region. In addition, several clinics in the region are focusing on biological drugs for the treatment of various diseases.The biological drugs market in Europe is growing due to increasing aging population in the region. For instance, according to a UN report, elderly people accounted for 23.2% of the total population in Germany in 2000, and the number is expected to reach 33.2% by 2025. Aging can lead to certain disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, which require effective biological drugs for their treatment.Request and Download Sample Report @Low manufacturing costs in Asia are attracting biopharmaceutical companies to invest in the region, supporting the growth of the biological drugs market. Moreover, governments of some Asian countries are also supporting the growth of the biological drugs market by providing funds to life sciences research institutes and biotech companies for the construction of R&D and manufacturing facilities.Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., GlaxoSmithKline plc., and Merck & Co., Inc. are some of the leading players in the global biological drugs market. Other major players in the market include Abbott Laboratories, Baxter International Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Eli Lilly and Company, Biogen Idec, and Amgen Inc.Buy Full Biological Drugs Market Report @Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Persistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA,Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Micro and Nano PLC Market - Report Analysis and Market Insights for highly profitable investment decision : Industry Outlook by 2026

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/micro-nano-plc-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=19883

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=19883

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Global Micro and Nano PLC Market: OverviewIn the past few years, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) have significantly advanced in terms of functionality, ease of use, communications, and programming flexibility. Such have been the developments in the field that traditional measures such as size or type of controller or input/output count have become a distant secondary criteria while choosing a PLC. Medium- and small-sized PLCs of present times pack features unheard of only a few years ago. Additionally, these scaled-down PLC units are also much less expensive than standard-sized PLCs and finding extensive usage across several niche application areas, such as in small machines mostly requiring basic serial communications.This report on the global micro and nano PLC market highlights the present growth dynamics of the market and predicts growth prospects of the market and its key segments on region, country, and global levels during the period from 2016 to 2024. The study also includes in-depth analysis of the various factors expected to have a notable impact on demand and markets overall development over the said period, including growth drivers, trends of past and present years, restraints, and opportunities. Moreover, a number of economic factors envisaged to affect the demand and supply of micro and nano PLCs across key regional markets are also analyzed in detail in this report.Obtain Report Details @In addition, the report also includes qualitative and quantitative details about the industry structure, market attractiveness for product types and regional markets, market share of the leading players, and regulatory framework native to different regions examined under the study for the micro and nano PLC market. The report offers an insight into micro and nano PLCs and other crucial segments of the market snack products based on revenue (US$ mn/bn) and sales volume (thousands).Global Micro and Nano PLC Market: Drivers and RestraintsWith micro and nano PLCs becoming the most widely installed types of PLCs in the past few years, their market has witnessed growth at a healthy pace over the years. The market has also witnessed vast advancements in terms of functionalities and programming flexibility over the years. In the near future, the rising demand for compact automation solutions across an increasing number of industries will continue to drive the market for micro and nano PLCs.Make an Enquiry @Some of the leading end-users of micro and nano PLCs are industries such as automotive, industrial automation, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, power, and metal and mining. Of these, the automotive industry is presently the dominant contributor to the revenue of the global market and is expected to retain dominance over the reports forecast period as well. The food and beverages industry, rapidly witnessing the shift to automated ecosystems, is also expected to present vast growth opportunities for the global micro and nano PLC market over the reports forecast period.Global Micro and Nano PLC Market: Geographical and Competitive DynamicsFrom a geographical perspective, the North America micro and nano PLC is expected to account for the dominant share in the global market over the forecast period, chiefly owing to the thriving trends of industrial automation and IoT connectivity in the regions strong industrial sector. Asia Pacific, a region that has witnessed the expansion and technological advancement of the industrial sector at an impressive pace in the past few years, is also expected to be a key regional market for micro and nano PLCs in the next few years.Some of the key vendors operating in the global micro and nano PLC market are Rockwell Automation Incorporation, Siemens AG, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, and Schneider Electric SE.View TOC for this Market Report @The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Contact UsTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Data Management Platform Market : Media Agency Segment Estimated to Account for Significant Value Share Through 2024

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/data-management-platforms-market.asp

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/13624

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

Data management platforms have become an instrumental aspect of new-age advertising solutions. Businesses across every industrial vertical in the world continues to depend upon advertisements as a reliable tool for marketing and reaping sales orders. With a certainty that advertising operations will keep gaining thrust in the business of every enterprise in the world, the global demand for data management platforms will continue to soar correspondingly. A recent study conducted by Persistence Market Research projects that the evolution of global advertising industry has played a seminal role in the expansion of global market for data management platforms. According to the study, the global data management platform market, which is presently worth over US$ 1.2 billion, will surge at a stellar 14.5% CAGR to harvest an estimated US$ 3.7 billion revenues by the end of 2024.Browse The Report:Sales of data management platforms across the globe have been factored by their effectiveness in promotional activities of various business outfits. Media agencies, publishers, advertising networks, and brand developers for retail businesses have been recognized as the key end-users of data management platforms. The study estimates that media agencies will be the largest end-user of data management platforms, procuring over 30% value share of global market in 2017 and beyond. By the end of 2024, data management platform revenues accounted by publishers will soar at the fastest pace, registering 15.6% CAGR.In the report, titled Data Management Platforms Market: Global Industry Analysis & Forecast, 2016-2024, Persistence Market Research has profiled the leading companies providing data management platforms to end-users. Oracle Corporation in anticipated to remain the most-dominant player in the global data management platform market. Along with it, companies such as Adobe Systems Incorporated, Cxense ASA, KBM Group LLC, and Rocket Fuel Inc. will undertake strategic acquisitions to extend their market presence. On the other hand, Krux Digital, LLC, Lotame Solutions, Inc., and Turn Inc. are known for their focus on product launches. Other players in the global data management platform market include, Neustar Inc. and eXelate, Inc.Make an Enquiry @The data management platform market in Asia-Pacific (APAC) is anticipated to grow rampantly, registering a 15.6% CAGR over the forecast period. North America accounted for around 45% share of global market revenues in 2016, and is slated to remain the dominant region by bringing in an estimated US$ 1.72 billion revenues by the end of 2024. Europe is expected to be the second-largest market for data management platforms, while Latin America and the Middle East & Africa (MEA) will exhibit growth at a comparatively low CAGR.Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.305 Broadway,7th FloorNew York City, NY 10007United StatesTel:+1-646-568-7751Email:sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWebsite:
Paediatric Vaccine Market Assessment, 2016-2026: Global Pneumococcal Indication Segment Anticipated to Be the Most Attractive Segment Through 2026

http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1287851

http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1287851

http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG

Paediatric vaccines are administered to a child in its paediatric age which is from 0 18 years of age. Vaccines are generally given in order to prevent children from diseases transferred through infections, seasonal variations and even through unhygienic areas. Depending upon disease, the vaccines are administered at regular intervals. WHO has designed a standard immunization program in order to have desired time interval between vaccines doses.Paediatric vaccines considered in the report include pneumococcal vaccine, DTP vaccine, rotavirus vaccine, MMR vaccine, polio vaccine, influenza vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, Hib vaccine and meningococcal vaccine. Pneumococcal vaccine is administered to prevent the child from infectious diseases such as pneumonia. DTP vaccines is a combination vaccine administered against prevention of three diseases those are diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Hib vaccine is also a combination vaccine for hepatitis B and influenza and is widely accepted.Click to get sample PDF with TOC:The market to expand manifold during the forecast period (2016 - 2026)In terms of revenue, the global paediatric vaccine market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 12.2% during the forecast period and is expected to be valued at US$ 88.14 Bn by the end of 2026.Revamped government policies to benefit the market, though soaring prices of vaccines to play spoilsportThe growth of the global paediatric vaccine market is primarily driven by increasing awareness regarding benefits of vaccination in prevention of diseases, rising economic growth, the collaboration of national manufacturers with key players in view to provide high-quality vaccines in at remote areas and initiative by global key players in developing innovative vaccines. In addition favourable reimbursement and increasing government support is expected to fuel the market growth over the forecast period. However, rising cost of vaccines, low accessibility to remote areas and increasing the availability of biosimilars at low rates might hinder the market growth over the forecast period.The Pneumococcal segment to act as a catalyst in the overall market growthBased on indication, the global paediatric vaccine market is segmented into pneumococcal vaccine, DTP vaccine, rotavirus vaccine, MMR vaccine, polio vaccine, influenza vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, Hib vaccine and meningococcal vaccine. In terms of revenue share, the pneumococcal segment dominated the global paediatric vaccine market in 2015 and is expected to reach the cusp within the forecast period. The Hib segment is expected to witness relatively higher growth rates in terms of value in the global paediatric vaccine market over the forecast period.Recombinant segment to face steep competition from the Conjugate segment within the forecast periodBased on technology, the global paediatric vaccine market is segmented into live or attenuated vaccine, inactivated or killed vaccines, conjugate vaccine, toxoid vaccine, subunit vaccine and recombinant vaccine. In terms of revenue share, the conjugate segment dominated the global paediatric vaccine market in 2015 and is expected to maintain the spike throughout the forecast period, registering higher CAGR as compared to the recombinant segment.Monovalent vaccine segment to accumulate maximum market shareBased on vaccine type, the global paediatric vaccine market is segmented into monovalent vaccines and multivalent vaccines. Among these, monovalent vaccine segment held maximum market share in 2015 and expected to continue the trend throughout the forecast period.The Institutional Health Centres segment to topple Hospital Pharmacy segment in the forecast periodBased on end user, the global paediatric vaccine market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies and institutional health centres. Currently, institutional health centres segment accounts for relatively higher revenue share, followed by hospital pharmacy end user segment.Enquiry:North America market to lead the packThe global paediatric vaccine market is segmented into seven major regions: North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, APEJ (Asia Pacific excluding Japan), Japan and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). In terms of value, North America is expected to be the dominant regional market by 2016 end and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 11.0% over the forecast period. APEJ is expected to be the fastest growing market in terms of revenue growth in the global paediatric vaccine market, registering a CAGR of 14.9% over the forecast period.Key stakeholders to create clamour in the market through mergers and revamped investment policiesSome key players in the global paediatric vaccine market included in this report are GlaxoSmithKline Plc., Merck & Co., Inc., Pfizer Inc., Sanofi, Panacea Biotec, Zydua Cadila, Emergent BioSolutions Inc., Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Bharat Biotech and Indian Immunologicals Ltd.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:
Asia-Pacific Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters Market Overview  Key Futuristic Trends and Opportunities 2022

Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters

http://bit.ly/2wAe9YT

http://bit.ly/2xrkOJe

http://www.globalinforeports.com

http://www.globalinforeports.com/blog

A trending newest report published by Global Info Reports titles, Global Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters Market, estimates that the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters market size is predicted to mature at a substantial Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during the forecast period, and this is credited to the increase in need for this product across the globe accompanied by new market inventions.Book Your Sample Copy of the Report here Why Purchase this Report you ask?Because, this market research report gives a thorough analysis of the global Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters Market by product segmentation, application, geographic and end user market. The report includes the current market size of this industry. The future outlooks and existing overall market summary of this sector have been greatly analyzed in this report. Also, key market manufacturers of Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters are assessed on several factors such as company overview, product portfolio, sales analysis and revenue generation during the forecast period. Additionally, the complete market potential is described in this report coupled with various countries across the globe.Report Magnitude:This report centers on the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters Market, predominantly 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.To Grab the Complete Report, Please Visit:Market Segment based on key Manufacturers, this report covers the topmost manufacturers of Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters : Bard Cordis Cook Medical Boston Scientific B. Braun Lifetech Scientific Volcano (Philips) ALNAbout 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-
Global Bone Glue Market is Expected to Represent US$ 1,032.9 Million by 2024

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/bone-glues-market/toc

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/3720

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/3720

www.persistencemarketresearch.com

The reluctance of orthopedic patients towards the use of conventional cementing materials for surgical adhesion procedures is influencing the development of organic alternatives. Globally, the consumption of bone glue in hospitals is on an upsurge, owing to their widespread acceptance by both healthcare professionals and patients. The global market for bone glue is currently valued at US$ 600.6 million, and is expected to reach US$ 1,032.9 million in revenues by the end of 2024.Persistence Market Researchs report titled Global Market Study on Bone Glue: Rising Adoption of Bone Glue for Orthopedic Surgeries Expected to Boost Demand for Bone Glue over the Forecast Period, has estimated that the global market for bone glue will register a CAGR of 7.0% during the assessment period of 2016-2024. Prevalence of bone related disorders continues to be on a rise, urging manufacturers to come up with advanced glues. Preference to bone glue remains higher for adhesion procedures in arthroplasty surgeries. By the end of 2024, the application of bone glue in arthroplasty surgeries is slated to surpass 40% share of global market value, rendering it as the most prominent application for bone glue adhesives.View and Download TOC of Bone Glue Market Research Report@Key end-use segments of the market include hospitals, specialty clinics and ASCs. High costs of orthopedic surgeries and growing number of accidents have increased the influx of orthopedic patients in hospitals. Since treating such patients requires the inclusion of bone glue as surgical adhesives, manufacturers are likely to concentrate their supply more towards hospitals and similar medical organizations. Specialty clinics are expected to be the second-most prominent end-user in the global bone glue market. On the account of their individual value share, specialty clinics and ASCs are projected to attribute to 17.9% and 10.9% share of the global bone glue market by 2024 end.Regional OverviewIn terms of value share, North Americas bone glue market accounts for half of the global market value, primarily due to advanced pharmaceutical production and robust healthcare infrastructure in the US. The bone glue market in the Asia Pacific region is expected to surge at the highest CAGR of 7.6% during the projected period. Latin Americas bone glue revenues are likely to surpass US$ 50 million by 2024, while bone glue sales in Middle East & Africa (MEA) region will expand sluggishly. On the other hand, revenues generated from bone glue sales in Europe are expected to be worth over US$ 150 million by the end of the forecast period.Request and Download Sample Report@Higher Demand for Synthetic Bone GlueThe production of bone glue through synthesis of constituent adhesive elements becomes more cost-effective and practical for manufacturers. Over 80% of global revenues estimated in 2016 and beyond are projected to be accounted by synthetic bone glue over natural bone glue. Revenues from global sales of synthetic product called methacrylate will incur a rise of estimated US$ 23.8 million between 2016 and 2017, while global cyanoacrylate revenues are likely to surpass US$ 250 million by 2024 end.Ethicon & Baxter International: Key Market PlayersAs a manufacturer and supplier of bone glue adhesives, Ethicon, Inc. (US) is estimated to hold 40% revenue share of the global market. Baxter International Inc. is the other leading player in the global bone glue market. Companies such as Cryolife are expected to expand their market presence through increasing distribution. C. R. Bard, Inc., Luna Innovations Incorporated, B. Braun Melsungen AG, Cohera Medical, Inc., Tissuemed Ltd., Chemence Medical, Inc., Integra LifeSceinces Corporation, and DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc., are also some of the prominent companies participating in the growth of the global bone glue market.Buy Full Bone Glue Market Report@About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a U.S.-based full-service market intelligence firm specializing in syndicated research, custom research, and consulting services. PMR boasts market research expertise across the Healthcare, Chemicals and Materials, Technology and Media, Energy and Mining, Food and Beverages, Semiconductor and Electronics, Consumer Goods, and Shipping and Transportation industries. The company draws from its multi-disciplinary capabilities and high-pedigree team of analysts to share data that precisely corresponds to clients business needs.PMR stands committed to bringing more accuracy and speed to clients business decisions. From ready-to-purchase market research reports to customized research solutions, PMRs engagement models are highly flexible without compromising on its deep-seated research values.ContactPersistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.commedia@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Non-invasive Prenatal Testing Market to obtain a revenue worth US$2.38 Billion by 2022

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/374

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=374

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=374<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

According to a TMR analyst, In 2013, the global market for non-invasive prenatal market was worth US$0.5 bn. This figure is anticipated to rise to a revenue of US$2.38 bn by the end of 2022, with a significantly growing CAGR of 17.50% from 2014 to 2022. On the basis of type, the segment is estimated to be led by NIFTY, Verifi, Bambni, Panorama that are being estimated to emerge stronger than before in the market, replacing the former leader. In 2013, MaterniT20 PLUS segment held the maximum shares of 36.1% in the global market for NIPT.Lower Rates of Miscarriages and Safer to Use, Makes NIPT a Preferred ChoiceAmong all the properties of non-invasive prenatal testing, the significant ones such as safety, precision, and its non-invasive nature are the major contributing factor for its demand in the global market. It is one of the most preferred techniques among the medical professionals and expecting mothers as it allegedly reduces the risk of miscarriages and safely detects the chromosomal abnormalities along with the sex determination of the fetus. Moreover, owing to high occurrence of babies born with down syndrome, the demand for NIPT rises in the market. Another fueling factor for the increase in the demand for non-invasive prenatal testing is that as per the research conducted, the conventional therapies and diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) include higher possibilities of miscarriages. Besides, there has been a noticeable shift towards conceiving babies at older age and thus to avoid the risk of miscarriages and abnormalities, NIPT is preferred more over other tests due to its significant properties.View and Download TOC of Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) Market Research Report@Advanced Research Strategies and Developments to Boost the Demand for NIPT in the MarketVarious firms and laboratories are getting into distribution agreement with test providers in order to present latest technological innovations in the form of products and services, both. This collaboration is acting as catalyst to the market growth of non-invasive prenatal testing. Another major driving factor for the rise of NIPT market is that many firms and public health agencies are anticipated to offer the test facilities directly to its patient and consumers. This also fuels the adoption of the technology on global scale and growth in revenue, as more and more population is getting awareness about the available tests.Companies are focusing on developing their research strategies and developing efficient solutions in non-invasive prenatal testing market. The key players in the market are coming up with innovations and techniques to sustain their position and in order to have an edge over their competitors in the market. With the usage of advanced technology vendors are capitalizing the opportunities by developing more accurate tests and efficient results.Request and Download Sample Report@The global non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) market is likely to witness an immensely competitive scenario in the coming years, states Transparency Market Research (TMR). The report also states that the companies are expected to plan mergers, collaborations, and acquisitions looking at the scope of growth in the market. Firms are expecting to experience rise in shares, global reach, by extending their product offerings, and exploring their operations.In 2015, Roche Diagnostics collaborated with Human Longevity to experiment whole-genome sequencing that contributed to study patients samples on the basis of genetic segments and come up with the new solutions and therapies. Apart these, Sequenom Inc., Berry Genomics Co. Ltd., Illumina Inc., Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, LifeCodexx AG, Natera Inc., Ariosa Diagnostics Inc., and BGI Diagnostics, are some of the key players in the global NIPT market. Similarly, other companies in Asia-Pacific region are also getting into expansion owing to high scope of profit and attain a global reach.Buy Full Non-invasive Prenatal Testing Market Report@About TMRTransparency 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.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
North America Defibrillators market to reach USD 5.69 billion by 2021

http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/north-america-defibrillators-market-3147/

http://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/north-america-defibrillators-market-3147/request-sample

http://www.marketdataforecast.com/cart

www.marketdataforecast.com

http://www.marketdataforecast.com/blog/

http://www.marketdataforecast.com/press-releases

The North America Defibrillators market size was approximately USD 4 billion in 2016. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% to reach USD 5.69 billion by 2021. It captures 40% of the global market making it the largest market in the world.Defibrillator is a significant tool in cardiopulmonary resuscitation indicated in cardiac arrhythmia. Numerous advancements have occurred in defibrillator technology ranging from manual to automated ones, and implantable defibrillators to ensure continuous care for patients afflicted from ischemic heart disease or the ones with high risk of cardiac arrest.Rising demand of defibrillators because of the legislative policies by governments of developed countries which are conducive to market growth is a key driver of this market. Growing awareness about the prevalence of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) among the younger population is another minor factor contributing towards the market growth.View Full Report @In spite of that, issues regarding the use of implantable and external defibrillators coupled with lack of awareness on sudden cardiac arrests (SCAs) can hamper the growth of this market. Frequent product recalls conjoined with growing pricing pressure on market players also inhibit market growth to a certain degree.The North America Defibrillators market can be categorized into two categories: by product, and by end user. If we go by product, Defibrillators market is segmented into Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDS) and External Defibrillators. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDS) is further segmented into Transvenous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (T-ICDS) (Biventricular ICDS/Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillators (CRT-DS), Dual-Chamber ICDS and Single-Chamber ICDS) and Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (S-ICDS). External Defibrillators is further categorized into Automated External Defibrillators (AEDS) (Semi-Automated External Defibrillators and Fully Automated External Defibrillators), Manual External Defibrillators and Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillators (WCDS). Of all the product categories of the defibrillators market, the S-ICDs segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the aforementioned forecast period.Get Free Sample Report @This is primarily attributed to its rising adoption due to its advantages such as growing number of research activities to support the adoption of S-ICD systems coupled with less-invasive approach and proven efficacy. Last but not the least, on the basis of end users the market is segmented into Hospitals, Clinics, & Cardiac Centres, Pre-Hospitals, Public Access Markets and Home Care. The hospitals, clinics, & cardiac centres category is projected to command the largest share of the defibrillators market in 2016. But still, the public access markets segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR in the aforementioned forecast period.By geography, the North America Defibrillators market has been categorized into US and Canada. It is largest market in terms of market share. US is the leading market in this region. This contribution can be attributed to supportive government policies, growing incidence of cardiovascular diseases, savoury reimbursement schemes, growing awareness, and rise in training programs.Buy now @Major companies in the Defibrillators market are Medtronic PLC (Ireland), St. Jude Medical, Inc. (U.S.), Boston Scientific Corporation (U.S.), BIOTRONIK SE & Co. KG (Germany), LivaNova PLC (U.K.), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), ZOLL Medical Corporation (U.S.), Cardiac Science Corporation (U.S.), Physio-Control, Inc. (U.S.), and Nihon Kohden Corporation (Japan).About Market Data Forecast:Market Data Forecast is a firm working in the area of market research and business intelligence. With rich experience in research across various business domains, they cater to the needs of both individual and corporate clients. From all-encompassing umbrella markets to extremely specific niche markets covering all the major regions across the globe as part of the research scope, their research services offer one of a kind specialities with competitive pricing options. For more information, kindly visit,Abhishek ShuklaSales Manager (International Business Development)Market Data ForecastDirect Line: +1-888-702-9626Mobile: +91 998 555 0206Mail: abhishek@marketdataforecast.comVisit MarketDataForecast Blog @View latest Press Releases of MDF @Plot # 127 & 128, 2nd Floor Lake View Plaza,Amar Co-operative Society, Kavuri Hills,Madhapur, Hyderabad - 500081.
Global App Creation Software Market Size, Status and Forecast 2021

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1149891&type=E

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/global-app-creation-software-market-size-status-and-forecast-2021.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/press-releases.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com

The global App Creation Software market has been evaluated in detail under this report and data has been collected from market leaders across the value chain. Information on the growth of this market during the forecast period and its estimated size by the end of the forecast period have also been included under the introduction section of the report. The drivers, restraints, and trends in the global App Creation Software market and their impact on the development of this market also form a key part of this study.This report studies the global App Creation Software market, analyzes and research the App Creation Software development status and forecast in USA, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeIntellectsoftKonstant InfosolutionsMobisoftMokriyaOpenxcellPhdlabsSmall PlanetSocial CubixSourcebitsTechaheadRequest a Sample Copy of this Report @Key analysis tools such as SWOT analysis and Porters five forces model have been included in order to present the competition prevalent in the global App Creation Software market. Numerous graphics, tables, and charts have been utilized in order to present an accurate understanding of this market. The market has also been analyzed in terms of its regulatory scenario and value chain analysis. The development of the global market in key geographies has been also presented through this study. This information helps the emerging players in gaining information on the most lucrative areas in order for them to make their business decisions accordingly. In the same way, the other main segments and sub-segments in the global App Creation Software market have been presented along with mentioning their development prospects.The competitive scenario amongst the top players in the global App Creation Software market has been analyzed through the market share evaluation within the competitive landscape section of the study. Under this section, details on the key mergers and acquisitions that have recently taken place or are bound to happen in the coming years have also been compiled. The top strategies adopted by the prime players operating in the market for better business into the global App Creation Software market have also been included under this study.Explore Complete Report with TOC @Table of Contents1 Industry Overview1.1 App Creation Software Market Overview1.1.1 App Creation Software Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global App Creation Software Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.2.1 USA1.2.2 EU1.2.3 Japan1.2.4 China1.2.5 India1.2.6 Southeast Asia1.3 App Creation Software Market by End Users/Application2 Global App Creation Software Competition Analysis by Players2.1 App Creation Software Market Size (Value) by Players (2015-2016)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in FutureLatest Press Releases @QYresearchreports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations.QYResearchReports1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-618-1030Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Global Neurostimulation Devices Market to Reflect a Modest CAGR of 12.7% Throughout 2014-2020

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/neurostimulation-devices-market/toc

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/2824

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/2824

http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

According to a new market report published by Persistence Market Research Global Market Study on Neurostimulation Devices - Deep Brain Stimulation Devices to Witness Highest Growth by 2020, the global neurostimulation devices market was valued at US$ 5,088.9 Mn in 2014 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.7% from 2014 to 2020, to reach US$ 10,445.7 Mn by 2020.Neurostimulation technology involves the use of microelectrodes to activate elements of the nervous system. It involves the use of a neurostimulation device - a battery-powered stopwatch-sized device - which is surgically implanted in the brain and delivers electric signals at scheduled time intervals to the nervous system.These electric signals develop tingling sensations (paresthesia) in the damaged nerve and helps chronic pain and neurological disorders. In chronic pain conditions, these electric signals block the pain messages from the damaged nerve from reaching the brain. These devices are gaining importance in the management of chronic conditions such neuropathic pain, nociceptive pain, Parkinsons disease, epilepsy, and depression.View and Download TOC of Neurostimulation Devices Market Research Report @Neuropathic pain occurs due to nerve damage, while nociceptive pain arises from diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. These devices are mostly used in cases where systemic drug therapies are not effective.The global neurostimulation devices market is witnessing significant growth due to increasing prevalence of chronic pain and rising incidences of neurological diseases. Moreover, rising awareness about various neurological diseases, growing geriatric population, and increasing investments in research and development of innovative neurostimulation devices are also driving the market.However, availability of alternative treatment therapies for neurological diseases and side-effects of neurostimulation therapy inhibit the growth of the market. The global neurostimulation devices market is anticipated to grow from an estimated US$ 5,088.9 Mn in 2014 to US$ 10,445.7 Mn by 2020 at a CAGR of 12.7% during the forecast period.In North America, the neurostimulation devices market is growing due to increasing incidence of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer and Parkinsons disease. Moreover, initiatives taken by various government and private associations for increasing awareness about various chronic pain and neurological disorders and rising investments in the research and development of novel neurostimulation devices in North America is driving the market in the region.Request and Download Sample Report @The neurostimulation devices market in Europe is growing due to initiatives taken by various governments to improve healthcare facilities in the region. Furthermore, increasing incidences of chronic pain and neurological diseases and growing aging population are also boosting the growth of the Europe neurostimulation devices market. According to WHO, every year, neurological disorders affect one-third of the population in Europe, and approximately 1% to 2% of the population is diagnosed with psychotic disorders.According to the NHS England - a government organization primarily involved in the improvement of healthcare services in England - approximately 8 million people suffered from chronic pain in the U.K. in 2010, and the number reached 14 million in 2012.Asia Pacific represents the fastest-growing region in the neurostimulation devices market. This is primarily due to growing aging population in various countries such as India and China. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) - an organization involved in biomedical and health related research activities - approximately 110 million people in China were aged 65 years and above in 2011 and the number is expected to reach 330 million by 2050. In India, approximately 60 million people were aged 65 years and above in 2011 and the number is expected to reach 227 million by 2050.Medtronic, plc, St. Jude Medical, Inc, Boston Scientific Corporation, and Cyberonics, Inc. are some of the leading players in the neurostimulation devices market. Other major players of neurostimulation devices market include Cochlear, Ltd., NDI Medical, LLC, NeuroPace, Inc., NeuroSigma, Inc., and MED-EL.Buy Full Neurostimulation Devices Market Report @Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Persistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA,Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Cooking Oil Market- GCC and Qatar Industry Analysis 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cooking-oil-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=15008

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

GCC and Qatar Cooking Oil Market: Scope and MethodologyThis report provides a strategic analysis of the GCC and Qatar cooking oil market and offers the growth forecast for the period from 2016 to 2024, with 2015 being the base year. The scope of the report includes a competitive analysis of the market segments based on the product types, and package types for GCC and Qatar. The report strives to compile a broader view of the characteristics of cooking oils by providing historical data from 2010 to 2014, and forecast up to 2024 along with a detailed analysis of the revenue.Browse Market Research Report @The report also identifies various factors effecting growth, which includes market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. These factors determine various market trends which impact growth. The market forecast has been provided based on constant currency rates. The GCC and Qatar cooking oil market size is provided in terms of revenue. Market revenue and volume are defined in USD Million and Thousand Tons. Market size and forecast for each product type is provided in the context of regional markets.An intensive analysis of Qatar and GCC market, by considering the product type and package type of cooking oil is made in this report. Impact analysis of market dynamics that describe factors that are currently driving and restraining growth of the market is mentioned in the study, along with their impact in the near, medium, and long term. The research devises the revenue growth strategies from the market size and forecasts statistics for the upcoming eight years.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @The study also covers the drivers and restraints governing the dynamics of the market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. Additionally, the report includes potential opportunities in the cooking oil market in the GCC countries and Qatar.GCC and Qatar Cooking Oil Market: SegmentationThe market of cooking oil is segmented by product type, packaging type and geographically. Product wise, the market is segmented into Sunflower Oil, Corn Oil, Palm Oil and others. By packaging type, the market is bifurcated into retail and bulk. Geographically, the report divides cooking oil market into Qatar and rest of GCC countries such as Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, and Oman among others.In the product category, Sunflower oil recorded the largest revenue in 2015 and is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period of 2016-2024. Wide usage of sunflower oil among the residents of Qatar is the primary reason fueling the demand for the same.In the packaging category, retail package dominated the cooking oils market in GCC nations and Qatar. Retail packaging category accounted for a majority of the market share in 2015 and would continue to do so during the forecast period. Bulk packaging accounted for a comparatively less market share in 2015 and the same is expected to witness further decline by the end of the forecast period.Market forecasting data provided in this report are derived based on demand generated from different applications and types of raw materials. Market dynamics prevalent in GCC countries and Qatar have been taken into account for estimating the growth of the specified market.Market estimates for this study have been based on volume, with revenue being derived through regional pricing trends. Market data for each segment is based on volume and corresponding revenues. Prices considered for calculation of revenue are average regional prices obtained through primary quotes from numerous regional suppliers, distributors, and direct selling regional producers based on manufacturers feedback and application requirement. Forecasts have been based on the expected demand from cooking oil applications.GCC and Qatar Cooking Oil Market: Competitive LandscapeThe report covers a detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and company profiles of key players operating in the global market. Companies were considered for the market share analysis based on their product portfolio, revenue, and manufacturing capacity. The leading players operating in GCC nations and Qatar cooking oil market include Savola Group, United Foods Company,Asia Africa General Trading L.L.C, Hayel Saeed Anam Group and Co., Omani Vegetables Oils and Derivatives Co. LLC, and Al Ghurair Resources Oils and Proteins.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Friction Modifier Additives Market Projected to Register 5.1% Volume CAGR through 2026

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/friction-modifier-additives-market/toc

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1656

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/1656

www.futuremarketinsights.com

Global demand for friction modifiers additives will reach about 174 thousand tonnes in 2016, up from 167 thousand tonnes in 2015. This will represent a market value of US$ 1,027 Mn, an increase of US$ 62 Mn from 2015. While wide-ranging applications, most prominently as lubricants in automotive sector, will continue to fuel demand, availability of affordable alternatives, such as dispersant additives, corrosion inhibitors and detergent additives will continue to pose challenges.By product type, inorganic friction modifier additives will continue to outsell organic, reaching about 597 thousand tonnes in 2016. Among the inorganic friction modifier additives, MoDTC will continue to account for the highest demand, reaching 275 thousand tonnes in 2016. Among the three types of organic friction modifier additives-polymers, fatty acids, and esters & amides-polymers are witnessing high demand from the automotive sector in North America and Western Europe. This trend is expected to gain further momentum in 2016, propelling the growth of the overall market.View and Download TOC of Friction Modifier Additives Market Research Report@Automotive lubricants will continue to be the largest application segment for friction modifier additives in 2016, witnessing a growth rate of about 6% over 2015, representing a market value worth US$272 Mn.Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) will maintain its numero uno position in 2016, with total demand expected to reach around 48 thousand tonnes. Demand will be supported by the regions expansive automotive sector, especially in the populous countries of China and India. These two countries will remain key to the growth of the global friction modifiers additives market in 2016 and beyond, as consumers in these countries put a lot of emphasis on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle while making buying decisions. In addition to the regions behemoth automotive industry, strong demand from the plethora of end-use industries in the region will continue to support demand. North America will continue to remain the second largest market for friction modifiers additives, representing a 22.5% share of global revenues.Request and Download Sample Report@Key players operating in the global friction modifiers additives market are Chemtura Corporation, Multisol, Archoil, International Lubricants, Inc., Afton Chemical Corporation, and Wynns.Long-term Outlook: The long-term outlook on the friction modifiers additives market remains positive with global volume witnessing a CAGR of 5.1% through 2026, whereas global revenues expanding at 6.9% through 2026.Buy Full Friction Modifier Additives Market Report@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:
Global High Content Screening Market is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of 6.1% by the end of 2025

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/high-content-screening-market/toc

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/12931

https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/12931

www.persistencemarketresearch.com

By 2016 end, the global high content screening market is likely to register a value of US$ 1.24 Bn. In terms of shipment, the consumption of HCS instruments will reach around 555 units in 2016. While the pharmaceutical and healthcare segment is expected to register the maximum consumption of HCS technology and instruments, Western Europe will remain the largest market in terms of high content screening technology adoption and revenue generation.Consistent demand for high content screening in order to identify human cell-associated small molecules, micro-molecules, and peptides, will continue to drive the market for high content screening globally. Surging biological research and drug discovery activities will also be the important drivers to the market growth. With growing preference to secondary screening for toxicity studies, the need for enhanced imaging is also rising, which is considered to be a major factor boosting the market for high content screening. In addition to burgeoning research in the field of life science, rising support from governments to research activities will escalate the sales of HCS instruments.View and Download TOC of High Content Screening Market Research Report@Increasing number of biotech and pharmaceutical companies specializing in research is likely to propel the demand for high content screening technology and devices. A major revenue share will be contributed by consistent sales of mid-end and high-end HCS instruments. Moreover, research institutions and educational organizations will also register notable consumption. Promising emergence of automated cell separation technique and scalability analysis is anticipated to accelerate market growth further by creating lucrative opportunities for manufacturers and researchers. Growing need for risks assessment in chronic disease cases is also considered to be a key factor driving the demand for HCS instruments.Request and Download Sample Report@By product, the global high content screening market is likely to gain the maximum traction in the cell imaging and analysis equipment segment. Software segment is expected register a discernible growth rate.Based on application, the primary and secondary screening segment will remain dominant with over 36% market value share, accounting for the revenues of nearly US$ 459.4 Mn in 2016. With overall steady growth, this segment is projected to witness a consistently growing Y-o-Y growth rate post-2016. Toxicity studies segment will however exhibit a higher overall growth rate. Contributing around 17% share to the entire market revenues in 2016, this segment is anticipated to exceed a value of US$ 219 Mn. Other application segments include target identification and validation, compound profiling, and others.On the basis of end-use, pharmaceutical and healthcare segment will continue its dominance over biotechnology segment.By regional analysis, Western Europe will remain the largest revenue generator, accounting for over US$ 424 Mn in terms of revenues. With over 34% market share in 2016, this segment is expected to continue dominance post-2016. North America will be the second largest market with nearly 32% market share in 2016, followed by Asia Pacific.Some of the key market players include Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., GE Healthcare, Olympus Corporation, PerkinElmer Inc., Merck Millipore Corporation, Danaher Corporation (Molecular Devices), Yokogawa Electric Corporation, Sysmex Corporation and Thorlabs Inc. Key players are increasingly concentrating on developing new, innovative products for enhanced cell analysis.Long-term Outlook: The global high content screening market revenues are slated to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% in terms of value and 6.6% in terms of shipment, by the end of 2025.Buy Full High Content Screening Market Report@About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a U.S.-based full-service market intelligence firm specializing in syndicated research, custom research, and consulting services. PMR boasts market research expertise across the Healthcare, Chemicals and Materials, Technology and Media, Energy and Mining, Food and Beverages, Semiconductor and Electronics, Consumer Goods, and Shipping and Transportation industries. The company draws from its multi-disciplinary capabilities and high-pedigree team of analysts to share data that precisely corresponds to clients business needs.PMR stands committed to bringing more accuracy and speed to clients business decisions. From ready-to-purchase market research reports to customized research solutions, PMRs engagement models are highly flexible without compromising on its deep-seated research values.ContactPersistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.commedia@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
North America Medical Refrigerator Market Current Dynamics and Competitive Analysis by 2022:

Medical Refrigerator

http://bit.ly/2w2T2PM

http://bit.ly/2x88C0l

http://www.globalinforeports.com

http://www.globalinforeports.com/blog

A trending newest report published by Global Info Reports titles, Global Medical Refrigerator Market, estimates that the Medical Refrigerator market size is predicted to mature at a substantial Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during the forecast period, and this is credited to the increase in need for this product across the globe accompanied by new market inventions.Book Your Sample Copy of the Report here Why Purchase this Report you ask?Because, this market research report gives a thorough analysis of the global Medical Refrigerator Market by product segmentation, application, geographic and end user market. The report includes the current market size of this industry. The future outlooks and existing overall market summary of this sector have been greatly analyzed in this report. Also, key market manufacturers of Medical Refrigerator are assessed on several factors such as company overview, product portfolio, sales analysis and revenue generation during the forecast period. Additionally, the complete market potential is described in this report coupled with various countries across the globe.Report Magnitude:This report centers on the Medical Refrigerator Market, predominantly 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.To Grab the Complete Report, Please Visit:Market Segment based on key Manufacturers, this report covers the topmost manufacturers of Medical Refrigerator : Haier Panasonic Helmer Follett LEC Thermo Fisher Vestfrost Solutions Felix Storch KIRSCH Meiling Migali Scientific Standex (ABS) Fiocchetti SO-LOW Zhongke Duling Aucma Labcold Tempstable Indrel Dulas Market Segment by Countries, covering United States Canada Mexico Market Segment by Type, covers Between 2and 8 Between 0and -40 Under -40About 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-
Processed Meat Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Forecast 2017 - 2022

Processed Meat Market 2017

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/1120090-global-processed-meat-market-2017-2021

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/1120090-global-processed-meat-market-2017-2021

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=1120090

Processed Meat Market 2017Executive SummaryProcessed meat is any meat that is treated through processes like curing, salting, fermentation, and smoking to either improve its taste or texture or to extend its shelf life. The rising consumption of meat products worldwide and the demand for convenience foods are the major drivers of the market. The growth of organized retail has led to increased product availability for consumers and has also been a key factor in market growth.The analysts forecast the global processed meat market to grow at a CAGR of 7.12% during the period 2017-2021.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global processed meat market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales of processed meat.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: Americas APAC EMEARequest a Sample Report @The report, Global Processed Meat Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors BRF Cargill JBS Hormel Foods NH Foods Smithfield Foods Tyson FoodsOther prominent vendors AdvancePierre Foods ConAgra Foods FLANDERS PROVISION Keystone Foods National Beef Packing OSI Group Sysco The Schwan Food CompanyKey questions answered in this report What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?Complete Report Details @Table of Contents Analysis of Key PointsPART 01: Executive summaryPART 02: Scope of the reportPART 03: Research MethodologyPART 04: Introduction Key market highlightsPART 05: Market landscape Market overview Global processed meat market Five forces analysisPART 06: Market segmentation by meat type Global processed meat market by meat typePART 07: Market segmentation by processing type Global processed meat market by processing typePART 08: Market segmentation by distribution channel Distribution channels in global processed meat marketPART 09: Geographical segmentation Segmentation of global processed meat market by geographyPART 10: Key leading countries Processed meat market in the US Processed meat market in China Processed meat market in the UK Processed meat market in BrazilPART 11: Market drivers Rise in global meat consumption Rising demand for frozen and packaged foods Growth in number of supermarketsPART 12: Impact of driversPART 13: Market challenges Disease outbreak in livestock Growing health consciousness Health risks associated with consumption of processed meatPART 14: Impact of drivers and challengesPART 15: Market trends Development of new infrastructure and expansion of processing facilities Clean labeling Increase in strategic alliances....ContinuedBuy Now @Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Solar Cell Materials Market 2022 Trends, Review and Analysis

ReportsWeb

http://www.reportsweb.com/inquiry&RW00011066255/sample

http://www.reportsweb.com/global-solar-cell-materials-market-professional-survey-report-2017

http://www.reportsweb.com/buy&RW00011066255/buy/3500

ReportsWeb.com has announced the addition of the Global Solar Cell Materials Market Professional Survey Report 2017 The report focuses on global major leading players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specification.This report studies Solar Cell Materials in Global market, especially in North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan and India, with production, revenue, consumption, import and export in these regions, from 2012 to 2016, and forecast to 2022. This report focuses on top manufacturers in global market, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, covering DuPont, BASF SE, Mitsubishi Material Corporation, Wacker Chemie AG, Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation LLC, LDK Solar Co. Ltd., Okmetic, Applied Materials, Inc, Shin-Etsu Chemicals Co., Ltd., Atecom Technology Co., Ltd., Topsil GlobalWafers A/S, Silicor Materials, Inc., Targray Technology International, Inc, Honeywell, Coveme, Ferrotec Corporation, Hangzhou First Applied Material Co. Ltd. And Topray Solar.Get free sample copy of report atOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into By Material, Polycrystalline Silicon, Monocrystalline Silicon, Cadmium Telluride, Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) and Others. By Product, Front Sheet, Encapsulant, Back Sheet and Others. By Application, the market can be split into Residential, Commercial and Utility. By Regions, this report covers (we can add the regions/countries as you want) North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan and India.Browse complete report atTable of Content1 Industry Overview of Solar Cell Materials2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Solar Cell Materials3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Solar Cell Materials4 Global Solar Cell Materials Overall Market Overview5 Solar Cell Materials Regional Market Analysis6 Global 2012-2017 Solar Cell Materials Segment Market Analysis (by Type)7 Global 2012-2017 Solar Cell Materials Segment Market Analysis (by Application)8 Major Manufacturers Analysis of Solar Cell Materials8.1 DuPont8.1.1 Company Profile8.1.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.1.2.1 Product A8.1.2.2 Product B8.1.3 DuPont 2016 Solar Cell Materials Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.1.4 DuPont 2016 Solar Cell Materials Business Region Distribution Analysis8.2 BASF SE8.2.1 Company Profile8.2.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.2.2.1 Product A8.2.2.2 Product B8.2.3 BASF SE 2016 Solar Cell Materials Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.2.4 BASF SE 2016 Solar Cell Materials Business Region Distribution Analysis8.3 Mitsubishi Material Corporation8.3.1 Company Profile8.3.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.3.2.1 Product A8.3.2.2 Product B8.3.3 Mitsubishi Material Corporation 2016 Solar Cell Materials Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis8.3.4 Mitsubishi Material Corporation 2016 Solar Cell Materials Business Region Distribution Analysis9 Development Trend of Analysis of Solar Cell Materials Market10 Solar Cell Materials Marketing Type Analysis11 Consumers Analysis of Solar Cell MaterialsPurchase this report atList of Tables and FiguresFigure Picture of Solar Cell MaterialsTable Product Specifications of Solar Cell MaterialsTable Classification of Solar Cell MaterialsFigure Global Production Market Share of Solar Cell Materials by Type in 2016Figure Polycrystalline Silicon PictureTable Major Manufacturers of Polycrystalline SiliconFigure Monocrystalline Silicon PictureTable Major Manufacturers of Monocrystalline SiliconFigure Cadmium Telluride PictureTable Major Manufacturers of Cadmium TellurideFigure Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) PictureTable Major Manufacturers of Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)Figure Others PictureTable Major Manufacturers of OthersTable Applications of Solar Cell MaterialsFigure Global Consumption Volume Market Share of Solar Cell Materials by Application in 2016Figure Residential ExamplesTable Major Consumers in ResidentialFigure Commercial ExamplesTable Major Consumers in CommercialFigure Utility ExamplesTable Major Consumers in UtilityFigure Market Share of Solar Cell Materials by RegionsFigure North America Solar Cell Materials Market Size (Million USD) (2012-2022)Figure China Solar Cell Materials Market Size (Million USD) (2012-2022)Figure Europe Solar Cell Materials Market Size (Million USD) (2012-2022)Contact Info:Name: Sameer JoshiEmail: sales@reportsweb.comOrganization: ReportsWebPhone: +1-646-491-9876ReportsWeb.com is a one stop shop of market research reports and solutions to various companies across the globe. We help our clients in their decision support system by helping them choose most relevant and cost effective research reports and solutions from various publishers. We provide best in class customer service and our customer support team is always available to help you on your research queries.505, 6th floor, Amanora Township,Amanora Chambers, East Block,Kharadi Road, Hadapsar, Pune-411028
Global Medical Device Connectivity Market

Global Medical Device Connectivity Market ? Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024

http://databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-medical-device-connectivity-market

http://databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-medical-device-connectivity-market/

http://databridgemarketresearch.com/speak-to-analyst/?dbmr=global-medical-device-connectivity-market

http://databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/north-america-digital-health-monitoring-devices-market/

http://databridgemarketresearch.com/blog/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/data-bridge-market-research

Global Medical Device Connectivity Market, By Type (Integration Software, Connectivity Hardware (Wired, Wireless (Wi-Fi, WMTS, Bluetooth), By Applications (Electronic Medical Record, Patient Monitoring, Others), By End-User (Hospitals, Community Healthcare, Clinics, Others), By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa)  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024The Global Medical Device Connectivity Market has accounted for USD 5.7 billion in 2016 and is expected to reach USD 46.4 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 30.1% in the forecasted period 2017 to 2024. The new market report contains data for historic years 2014 & 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.Ask for Sample Report Visit @The growth of this market is owing to new regulations such as meaningful use requirements, the implementation of ACOs and some other recent changes in the federal healthcare regulations such as medicare and Medicaid incentive and penalty plans are driving change in this market. One of such change is meaningful requirement for documenting blood pressure in EMR will increase from 50% to 80% on all patients. Also the need to accurately store and analyze data for improved healthcare quality is affectively driving the growth of this market. Also now HDO resources needs to maintain customized interfaces and maintain manual data feeds from devices. Some other drivers in this market is remote patient monitoring, transition of point of care devices from hospitals to home healthcare and the growth of telehealth and telemedicine market among others.Global Medical Device Connectivity Market :SegmentationThe global medical devices connectivity market is segmented based on product type application, end user and geography.On the basis of product the market is segmented into integration software and connectivity hardware. Connectivity hardware is further segmented based on product types into wired and wireless solutions. Wired solutions include segments such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and WMTS.Know more about this Report:Based on end users the market is segmented into hospitals, community healthcare, clinics and others. Hospitals segment dominate the market with more than 60% market share in 2016 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 35.2% in the forecast period 2017 to 2024. On the basis of application the market is segmented into electronic medical record (EMR), patient monitoring and others.Major Player Of Global Healthcare IT Market:Some of the major players in this market are Cerner Corporation, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Digi International Inc., McKesson Corporation, Cisco Systems Inc., Medtronic, Inc., Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Honeywell HomeMed LLC, Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, eDevice Inc., Qualcomm Inc., Lantronix Inc., GE Healthcare Ltd., Silex Technology America, Inc., NantHealth, Spectrum Medical and, True Process, Inc. among others.Speak to Analyst Visit @Related ReportNorth America Digital Health Monitoring Market  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024North America Digital Health Monitoring Market By Product Type Devices (Blood Pressure Monitors, Blood Glucose Monitors, ECG, Oximeters, Peak Flow Monitors, Multi Parameter Monitors, Sleep Neap Monitors, Neurological Monitors, Others), Software (Healthcare Apps, Chronic Disease Apps, Personal Health Apps, Others), Services (Remote Monitoring, Consultancy Services, Treatment Services, Fitness and Wellness Services, Others), By Country (U.S., Canada, Mexico)  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024Report Access:About Data Bridge Market Research:Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Vishal DixitData Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: Sales@databridgemarketresearch.comInvestor: investors@databridgemarketresearch.comVisit Blog:Follow us on LinkedIn:Data Bridge is an organization lead by well versed forecasters, analysts and researchers who indulge in detailed and diligent research on different markets, trends and emerging opportunities in the successive direction to cater to your business needs. Data Bridge aims to make your organization well acquainted with profound knowledge of the global and local market statistics.Data Bridge Market ResearchOffice Number 402 & 317, Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road, HadapsarPune  411028Maharashtra, India
Size and Share of Bio-Based Platform Chemicals market in Global Industry : Insights, Development, Research and Forecast 2017-2021

http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1237288

http://www.researchmoz.us/enquiry.php?type=E&repid=1237288

http://www.researchmoz.us/global-bio-based-platform-chemicals-industry-2017-trends-and-forecast-report-report.html

http://bit.ly/1TBmnVG

https://marketinfo247.wordpress.com/

Albany, NY, 18th September : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Global Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry 2017, Trends and Forecast Report" globally.Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Report by Material, Application, and Geography Global Forecast to 2021 is a professional and in-depth research report on the world's major regional market conditions, focusing on the main regions (North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific) and the main countries (United States, Germany, united Kingdom, Japan, South Korea and China).Get PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The report firstly introduced the Bio-Based Platform Chemicals basics: definitions, classifications, applications and market overview; product specifications; manufacturing processes; cost structures, raw materials and so on. Then it analyzed the world's main region market conditions, including the product price, profit, capacity, production, supply, demand and market growth rate and forecast etc. In the end, the report introduced new project SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis.The report includes six parts, dealing with:1.) basic information;2.) the Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Market;3.) the North American Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Market;4.) the European Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Market;5.) market entry and investment feasibility;6.) the report conclusion.Table of ContentsPart I Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry OverviewChapter One Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry Overview1.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Definition1.2 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Classification Analysis1.2.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Main Classification Analysis1.2.2 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Main Classification Share Analysis1.3 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Application Analysis1.3.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Main Application Analysis1.3.2 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Main Application Share Analysis1.4 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry Chain Structure Analysis1.5 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry Development Overview1.5.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Product History Development Overview1.5.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Product Market Development Overview1.6 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.1 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Import Market Analysis1.6.2 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Export Market Analysis1.6.3 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Main Region Market Analysis1.6.4 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.5 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Global Market Development Trend AnalysisMake an Enquiry about TOC @Chapter Two Bio-Based Platform Chemicals 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 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Industry (The Report Company Including the Below Listed But Not All)Chapter Three Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Market Analysis3.1 Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Product Development History3.2 Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Competitive Landscape Analysis3.3 Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Market Development TrendChapter Four 2012-2017 Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Productions Supply Sales Demand Market Status and Forecast4.1 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Capacity Production Overview4.2 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Production Market Share Analysis4.3 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Demand Overview4.4 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Supply Demand and Shortage4.5 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Import Export Consumption4.6 2012-2017 Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Cost Price Production Value Gross MarginBrowse Report @Chapter Five Asia Bio-Based Platform Chemicals Key Manufacturers Analysis5.1 Company A5.1.1 Company Profile5.1.2 Product Picture and Specification5.1.3 Product Application Analysis5.1.4 Capacity Production Price Cost Production Value5.1.5 Contact Information5.2 Company B5.2.1 Company Profile5.2.2 Product Picture and Specification5.2.3 Product Application Analysis5.2.4 Capacity Production Price Cost Production Value5.2.5 Contact Information5.3 Company CResearchMoz 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.ResearchMozMr. Nachiket Ghumare,90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074USA-Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn @Follow me on :
Latin American Dairy & Soy Food Market 2017 - Current and Future Plans

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2260224-opportunities-in-the-latin-american-dairy-soy-food-sector-analysis-of

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2260224-opportunities-in-the-latin-american-dairy-soy-food-sector-analysis-of

www.linkedin.com/company/4828928

https://twitter.com/WiseGuyReports

https://www.facebook.com/Wiseguyreports-1009007869213183/?fref=ts

Summary"Opportunities in the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food Sector", report brings together multiple data sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the Latin America Dairy & Soy Food sector. It includes market overview, high growth country analysis, health & wellness analysis, top brands, key distribution channels, packaging formats and case studies.GET SAMPLE REPORT @The Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector is one of the smallest in the world in volume and value terms. Milk is the largest market in the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector, followed by Drinkable Yogurt and Yogurt. Amongst the high potential countries in Latin America, Brazil is the largest market in terms of value and volume sales, while Colombia is forecast to grow at the fastest CAGR in value terms during the period 2016-2021. Rising disposable incomes and the demand for healthy food options in the region is driving the growth of Dairy & Soy Food sector in Latin America. Rising production costs and rising prices of cattle feed are the major challenges faced by manufactures in the region. Ninho, Paulista, Elege, Batavo, and Itambe are the leading brands in the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector. Hypermarkets & Supermarkets is the largest distribution channel in the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector.ScopeThis report brings together multiple data sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector . It includes analysis on the following -- Market overview: Includes sector size, market size and growth analysis by markets.- Change in consumption: Provides a shift in the consumption of Dairy & Soy Food by markets across different countries in the Latin American region.- High potential countries: Provides Risk-Reward analysis of 6 countries across the Latin American region based on market assessment, economic development, socio-demographic, governance indicators, and technological infrastructure. Out of 6, a total of 4 high potential countries are shortlisted.- Health & Wellness analysis: Provides insights on the Health & Wellness products in terms of value and percentage share in the overall Dairy & Soy Food sector during 2011-2021. The analysis includes key Health & Wellness attributes and consumer benefits driving the sales of Dairy & Soy Food in 2016. It also covers the market share of leading companies offering Dairy & Soy Food with health and wellness attributes in the same year.- Brand Analysis: Provides an overview of leading brands in Latin America region, besides analyzing the growth of Private Label in the region.- Key distribution channels: Provides analysis on the leading distribution channels in the Latin American Dairy & Soy Food sector in 2016. It covers seven distribution channels - Hypermarkets & Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Food & Drinks Specialists, eRetailers, Dollar Stores and Others that include - Cash & Carries and Warehouse Clubs and Other Retailers.- Preferred packaging formats: The report provides percentage share (in 2016) and growth analysis (during 2011-2021) for various packaging materials, container, closure, and outer types based on the volume sales (by pack units) of Dairy & Soy Food.Reasons to buy- Manufacturing and retailers seek latest information on how the market is evolving to formulate their sales and marketing strategies. There is also demand for authentic market data with a high level of detail. This report has been created to provide its readers with up-to-date information and analysis to uncover emerging opportunities of growth within the sector in the region.- The report provides a detailed analysis of the countries in the region, covering the key challenges, competitive landscape and demographic analysis , that can help companies gain insight into the country specific nuances- The analysts have also placed a significant emphasis on the key trends that drive consumer choice and the future opportunities that can be explored in the region, than can help companies in revenue expansion- To gain competitive intelligence about leading brands in the sector in the region with information about their market share and growth ratesTable of Content: Key Points1. Executive summary2. Market size and growth analysis (Regional analysis )Market Size Analysis - Latin America compared to other regionsGrowth analysis by regionGrowth Analysis by CountryGrowth Analysis by market3. Growth potential by countries in Latin AmericaRisk and reward analysis - Opportunity scores4. Market size and growth analysisOverview - Value and volume growth analysis by countryGrowth Contribution Analysis by CountryShare of Dairy compared to other Food sectorsChange in consumption levels by country and Dairy sector sPer capita consumption and expenditure analysis5. Country ProfilesBrazilChileColombiaPeru6. Success Stories7. Company and Brand AnalysisBrand Share Analysis in the Dairy sectorLeading brands in Latin America Dairy sectorPrivate Label penetration in the Dairy sector8. Health & Wellness AnalysisHealth & Wellness Analysis - OverviewHealth & Wellness market growth analysis by countryHealth & Wellness Analysis - Key product attributes and consumer benefitsLeading Health & Wellness companies by market share9. Key Distribution ChannelsContinuedACCESS REPORT @Get in touch:LinkedIn:Twitter:Facebook:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe.WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Tumor Ablation Market | Trends, Opportunities and Forecast up to 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/18656

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=18656

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=18656<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

A recent study by Transparency Market Research (TMR) has detected that the competition in The Global Tumor Ablation Market is intense, in a fragmented scenario with the presence of a number of participants. That being said, there are plenty of growth opportunities too in the market for tumor ablation, which will continue to attract pharmaceutical companies and further intensify the competition. The TMR report projects the global tumor ablation market to witness a healthy growth rate of 12.20% during the forecast period of 2016 to 2024, reaching an estimated valuation of US$1.9 bn by 2024, considerably up from its evaluated worth of US$702.9 mn in 2015.Among the key vendors currently operating in the global tumor ablation market, is Medtronic plc. The company has a diverse product portfolio and continues to add new products as well as enhances the successful ones. Geographical expansion has also helped Medtronic to gain ground over its competitors. In the near future, some of the other prominent companies, such as Ethicon, Boston Scientific, and AngioDynamics, are expected to depend on product innovation to stay afloat in the fragmented and competitive landscape.Radiofrequency Ablation Profitable Technology SegmentTechnology-wise, this report segments the global tumor ablation market into microwave ablation, laser interstitial thermal ablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, and radiofrequency ablation, which currently is the most profitable segment. The demand for radiofrequency segment is projected for a CAGR of 10.90% during the forecast period of 2016 to 2024, significantly exceeding the overall growth rate of the market for tumor ablation. This substantial demand for tumor ablation is a reflection of several benefits offered by the procedure, which is efficient, causes nominal damage to the tissues, and offers high-density focused ultrasound.Based on material, the report segments the global tumor ablation market into cancers of liver, lung, kidney, bone, breast, and prostate. Liver cancer is more common among men than women, and has significant demand, although lung cancer category is high profitable too, primarily as a result of changing lifestyle among the urban population.Request to download and view full ToC -North America Remains Highly ProfitableOut of five regions analyzed by the report: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa, the former accounted for nearly a third (30%) of the global demand in the tumor ablation market. In the near future, North America will continue to be the most lucrative region, gaining traction from factors such as high adoption rate of new technology, robust healthcare infrastructure, escalating geriatric population percentage, and high prevalence of cancer. Europe is another profitable region, although vastly populated Asia Pacific will turn into a highly profitable region as the technology goes cheaper and reaches widespread unmet demands.Request to view Sample Report -Prevalence of Cancer Driving DemandA number of factors are ensuring the prosperity of the global tumor ablation market in the near future, such as growing geriatric population across the world, technological advancements in ablation devices, increasing population base of cancer patients, which is a chronic disease, mushrooming number of hospitals, ablation centers, and surgical facilities across the globe, changing lifestyle, and government benefits for the companies indulging the in the research and development in this field. On the other hand, while cost constraints continue to hinder the proper progress of the market for tumor ablation, ongoing healthcare reforms is not supporting the current inflow of the demand.Tumor Ablation Market Report is available @ US$ 5795About 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:
Global Agarose Market 2017 : Laboratorios CONDA, Amresco, Biotools, Biskanten

Agarose

http://bit.ly/2xsRlPb

http://bit.ly/2jByBYe

Market Research Explore : The report 2017 Global Agarose Market mainly highlights thoughtful facts and intelligence of Agarose market in conjunction with prevailing and future market trends throughout the forecast period from 2017 to 2022. It additionally executes the great study of price, current geographical zones, technology, demand-supply and therefore the consequences it might wear the market growth of Agarose trade.Do Enquiry concerning this analysis Report :Agarose is a purified linear galactan hydrocolloid isolated from agar or agar-bearing marine algae.Structurally, it is a linear polymer consisting of alternating D-galactose and 3, 6-anhydro-L-galactose units. Agarose are used in agarose gel electrophoresis, protein purification, etcThe graph of Agarose trade can show increase rate among next 5 years which can, in turn, cause the conclusive outlook of future for varied promoting players considering the profit chain of Agarose market. The report additionally performs in-depth analysis and appraisal of Agarose industry that may embellish shoppers to possess a substantial share within the Agarose market.Agarose market analysis based on leading market players:LonzaHispanagarBio-Rad LaboratoriesThermo Fisher ScientificLaboratorios CONDAAmrescoBiotoolsBiskantenThe report wraps major countries concerned in Agarose market. It additionally imparts effective study on varied sections of Agarose market like opportunities and market arrangement of high leading players.The global Agarose market is well- organized consistent with leading players/manufacturers, geographical zones, applications and merchandise varieties. Thorough analysis for every class is provided within the report in conjunction with its forecast amount and market volume. Analyzing every category helps investors to realize data regarding the actual marketplace for a specific space.The report highlights the efforts taken by survey team to investigate separate varied system accommodations, vendors, dealers and business associates can get benefitted with this report.Access Full Report with TOC at :The report additionally covers profiles of the key Agarose vendors within the international market together with their monetary survey, market winning ways, new developments and merchandise offerings within the global Agarose market.Hence, this report can useful for Agarose vendors, system integrators, and connected business partners to acknowledge key investment regions and outline their ways.About Us :MR Explore provides a range of marketing and business research solutions designed for our clients specific needs based on our expert resources. The business scopes of MR Explore cover more than 30 industries including energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. We provide our clients with one-stop solution for all the research requirements.Contact Us :Enid SteelEmail : sales@marketresearchexplore.comUnited States
Transdermal Scopolamine Market Research Report by Geographical Analysis and Forecast up to 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/22322

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=22322

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=22322<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

A new study by Transparency Market Research (TMR) indicates that Novartis AG, alone, contributed nearly 41.0% of the overall revenue of The Global Transdermal Scopolamine Market in 2016. Other two torch bearers in the market, namely, GlaxoSmithKline Plc and Baxter International Inc., commanded a cumulative share of 49.0% in the same year. Even though, the number of small players in the market is less, the degree of competition within the arena will remain low over the forthcoming years. The leading participants are focusing towards acquiring small companies in order to consolidate their position in the market, says the author of the report.The opportunity in the global transdermal scopolamine market was pegged at US$330.0 mn in 2015 and is poised to reach a valuation of US$585.3 mn by the end of 2024, progressing at a healthy CAGR of 6.70% between 2016 and 2024.North America to Stay Ahead through 2024, thanks to Robust Healthcare FacilitiesGeographically, North America will continue to be at the forefront of the growth of the global market for transdermal scopolamine until 2024. The presence of an advanced healthcare infrastructure along with the increasing consumer healthcare spending is acting as the primary factor driving the regional market. The market in North America is witnessing increased usage of transdermal scopolamine in surgeries and post-operative treatments. However, the growth of the region is impeded by the limited availability of generics. Owing to these factors, the region will exhibit a CAGR of 6.40% during the forecast period.Europe and Asia Pacific are expected to register strong growth during the same period. The growth of Europe can be attributed to the widening pool of travelers and the presence of a state-of-art healthcare industry.Request to download and view full ToC -Increasing Number of Surgeries Performed Worldwide to Stir up Uptake of Transdermal ScopolamineThe global market for transdermal scopolamine is gaining significant momentum, thanks to the increasing awareness among consumers regarding its high effectiveness in treating motion sickness. The growing number of travelers worldwide are, therefore, shot in the arm for the global market. Transdermal scopolamine is also being increasingly used in surgeries as it aids in controlling hyper salivation and helps in recovering from anesthesia-induced and postoperative vomiting and nausea, says a TMR analyst. Hence, the dramatic rise in the number of people undergoing surgeries every year is reflecting positively on the global sales of transdermal scopolamine patches. Researchers anticipate that the market will continue to post phenomenal growth in the coming years as well.Request to view Sample Report -Side-effects of Transdermal Scopolamine to Limit their Widespread AdoptionOn the flip side, the upward growth of the market is marred by the side-effects caused by the consumption of these patches, such as retarded motion, drowsiness, and diluted pupils. Besides this, the rising reporting of cases of adverse withdrawal symptoms for these patches and the presence of stringent rules and regulations pertaining to the manufacturing and marketing of these products are limiting the global transdermal scopolamine market from realizing its utmost potential.Nevertheless, emerging countries are expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities. The proliferation of small- and medium- scale players in developing regions is boosting the scope of market expansion. The improving healthcare sector and booming medical tourism are providing the immense potential to these countries, which in turn is likely attract the attention of key global players.Transdermal Scopolamine Market Report is available @ US$ 5795About 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:
Smart Railways Market 2017 Is Gradually Growing High & Analyzed By Top Research Firm

https://www.alltakemarketresearch.com/enquiry/request_sample/10575

https://www.alltakemarketresearch.com/report-detail/Smart-Railways-Market

Smart Railways Market research report helps to get access to industry data and upcoming trends which will give you avenues to know about the market. This report gives opportunities to go through with industry analysis, share and forecast, Providing brief description about the market size its competitors and product identification.In this report, the global Smart Railways market is valued at USD XX million in 2016 and is expected to reach USD XX million by the end of 2022, growing at a CAGR of XX% between 2016 and 2022.Request For Free Sample Of The Report @Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Smart Railways in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Smart Railways market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingABB GroupGeneral ElectricHuawei TechnologiesHitachiCisco SystemsSiemensIBM CorporationIndra SistemasAlstomAlcatel-LucentBombardierAnsaldo STSOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoDevices & ComponentsServicesSolutionsOn 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 Smart Railways for each application, includingRailwaySubwayObtain Report Details @If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.About UsAlltake Market Research is division of the Alltake LLC. that offers premium quality market intelligence, market research, industry analysis reports & forecast data for different domains across the business industry.Alltake Market Research understands the importance of market analysis for any strategy that is implemented in any organization or association. In order to provide the best solution, Alltake Market Research have associated with major organizations within market research and consultancy firm. This portfolio offers market analysis report at one place for different business verticals. Alltake Market Research ensures to offer you with the most reliable and quality market research available.Contact UsAlltake Market Research16192, Coastal Highway Lewes,DE 19958, United StatesUS - 188 8587 9717UK - 4480 0680 0195Email sales@alltakemarketresearch.com
Patient Warming Devices Market Research Report by Geographical Analysis and Forecast up to 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/7877

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=7877

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=7877<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The Global Patient Warming Devices Market has been prognosticated to demonstrate a significantly high degree of competitive rivalry amongst leading industry players. In a report published by Transparency Market Research (TMR), amid the consolidated nature of the competitive landscape of the market, players could aim at amalgamating their share through mergers and acquisitions. Players have been expected to not only add to their current product portfolio but also extend their geographical footprint via the acquisition of smaller yet time-honored businesses. Furthermore, players could dedicate more significance to product differentiation.According to TMR, the world patient warming devices market has been prophesied to earn an around US$2.78 bn by 2024. This revenue valuation could progress at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period 20162024 from a US$1.73 bn touched in 2015. By product, surface warming system has been envisaged to attain a maximum share by the concluding forecast year as it had secured an approximate 76.0% in 2015. In respect of geography, forecasted to be trailed by Europe at close quarters in future, North America could continue its dominance in the market, evident by its 45.7% share in 2015.Request to download and view full ToC -Requirement of Urgent Body Temperature Management Swells DemandThe demand for patient warming devices has been projected to be shored up by the urgent need for the management of body temperature in patients that undergo surgical procedures involving the usage of anesthesia. Such patients usually experience a drastic drop in their body temperature, which calls for the pressing requirement of patient warming devices. Perioperative care, in particular, has been anticipated to hike up the growth of the world patient warming devices market for most of the forecast period. With this in consideration, the surge in the count of chronic diseases could act in the favor of the market.More prospects have been predicted to take birth in future as the demand for patient warming devices witnesses an increase with the elevating prevalence of oncological and cardiovascular conditions. This could likely be due to the rising demand for surgical interventions on a global platform. The mounting rate of premature births and increasing number of neonates could maintain the need for the implementation of patient warming devices. The rising age of population making people susceptible to chronic disorders could augment the need for patient warming devices. The snowballing occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and developing trend of sedentary lifestyle have been expected to further add to the growth of the market.Request to view Sample Report -High Excise Duties Imposed on Medical Device Manufacturers Hamper GrowthThe risk of serious side effects with the implementation of patient warming devices on account of their invasive nature could discourage the growth of the market. Another major restraint that has been foreseen to impede the growth of the international patient warming devices market could be high excise duties that manufacturers of medical devices are faced with.However, in the coming years, the need for patient warming devices could spike with the emergence of technologically sophisticated offerings including targeted temperature management devices. The demand for patient warming devices has been estimated to be further bolstered by bettering healthcare infrastructure and economic development in developing regionsPatient Warming Devices Market Report is available @ US$ 5795About 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:
Sintering Market Analysis and Forecast By Region 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/europe-sintering-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/22526

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=22526

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Prominent enterprises with global presence such as Sumitomo Corporation, GKN plc., Hoganas A.B., and AMES are domiciled in Europe. This has rendered the Europe sintering market highly competitive. These players together held 20% of the market in 2015, which is indicative of its fragmented vendor landscape. A majority of the leading players in the Europe sintering market have established brand identities. This is a key factor determining their success amidst end users, finds Transparency Market Research (TMR) in a new study.Browse Market Research Report:As competition is forecast to get fiercer with time, leading players are focusing on consolidation through strategies collaborations. Besides this, several companies are boosting their plant capacities as they strive for increased profitability. A majority of the key players are supported by a network of well-established suppliers and distribution network. This has an inevitable positive impact on their sales outlook. Despite such strong presence of established players, the market exhibits lucrative prospects for the entry of new players. Factors such as easy access to raw materials and rising applications of sintering have eased entry of new players. In the near future, the competition prevailing in the sintering market in thus expected to get fiercer.TMR has projected the Europe sintering market to reach US$11.09 bn by the end of 2024. At the start of 2015, the market was valued at US$8.35 bn. If these figures hold true, the Europe sintering market will exhibit a CAGR of 3.2% between 2016 and 2024. By material, the pure iron segment has reported dominance in the market. In 2015, the segment held over 35.7% in the Europe sintering market. Through the course of the forecast period, the segment is expected to retain its dominance. Among countries, Germany held the leading market share of 24.4% in 2015.View and Download TOC of this Report @Application across Diverse Industries to Aid GrowthThe sintering market in Europe is primarily gaining from the increasing demand for sinter-based structural auto parts. These auto parts are more durable, light-weight, and affordable compared to their conventional counterparts. Besides this, the usage of sinter-based components has significantly increased in engines, shafts, chassis, bearings, and different types of valves. Considering the increasing applications, the demand for sinter-based products is steadily spurring in Europe.Moreover, sintering helps in the manufacturing of superior quality components with peculiar shapes. While at initial phase, the automotive industry accounted for the most demand witnessed in the market, of late industries such as aerospace, construction, and mechanical engineering have realized their use. In the next few years, the market players can therefore expect moderately rising opportunities especially on account of the rising application of sinter-based components across diverse industries.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Sintering market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market @Time Consuming Manufacturing Process Could Hamper GrowthSintering is a time-consuming process, which is a key restraint to its increased uptake. In addition, inadequate availability of systemic techniques to validate the inner-strength of sintered components, make optimizing manufacturing process highly tedious. This could have a negative impact on the overall market. Enactment of stringent regulations to curb harmful emissions has created bottlenecks, thus leading the market towards unwieldy growth trajectory.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.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
North America Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Market | Future Demand & Growth Analysis with Forecast up to 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/16094

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=16094

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=16094<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The three leading entities in this market  Mobility Ventures LLC., BraunAbility, and Vantage Mobility International  took up over 65% of the North America Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Market in 2015. According to Transparency Market Research in its recently published research report, the market featured a moderately fragmented competitive landscape for that year, and is likely to slowly grow more consolidated over time. A majority of the players in this market are highly reliant on bringing out newer and advanced products in the market as a core part of their strategic expansion plans. It is also likely for the leading players to change their focus towards mergers and acquisitions over the coming years.According to TMR, the North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market was valued at US$1.74 bn in 2015. It is expected to expand at a positive CAGR of 5.30% within a forecast period from 2016 to 2024, eventually reaching US$3.47 bn by the end of 2024.Full Size Vehicles Dominate Demand Volume in North America MarketOn the basis of the type of vehicle, the North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market has so far been led by full size vehicles, in terms of revenue in 2015. This segment took up over 48% of the market for the year, thanks to a rise in the uptake of wheelchair accessible vehicles as a type of family vehicle. However, over the coming years the overall rise in demand for medium size vehicle is expected to be higher in North America.The U.S. dominated the North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market in 2015 with a share of close to 95% and is expected to remain in the lead for the given forecast period. This might be achieved by the increasing presence of a disabled and geriatric population, the increasing demand for wheelchair accessible vehicles, and a rise in trauma and accident cases. The market growth rate is further enhanced by increased government funding and the rising number of awareness initiatives.Request to download and view full ToC -Patients with Mobility Issues to Rise, Fueling DemandThe growth in the number of disabled patients is currently influencing the North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market. In 2015, almost 3.3 mn wheelchair users were already present in North America, a number which is likely to rise over the coming years due to the growth in prevalence of disability of mobility among patients, states a TMR analyst. The massive geriatric population is a primary proponent of this demographic, followed by the obese and the trauma and accident victims. This, as a result, is likely to fuel the demand for wheelchair accessible vehicle converters further over the forecast period.The North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market is also being driven by the overall addition of these type of vehicles in the increasingly asked for user-friendly accessible vehicles category. The market is, however, currently being restrained by the high price of these vehicles and the essential components required.Request to view Sample Report -Advancements in Technology to Guide Markets FutureSide entry vehicles have so far been a widely demanded segment in the North America wheelchair accessible vehicle converters market. According to analysts, this segment is also likely to propel the market over the coming years, owing to the increased expenditure on them, fueling the development rate of manufacturers.Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Market Report is available @ US$ 5795About 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:
Phototherapy Equipment Market | Future Demand & Growth Analysis with Forecast up to 2024

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/18065

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=18065

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=18065<ype=S

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The Global Phototherapy Equipment Market exhibits a high degree of competition. Nearly 80% of the overall market revenue in 2016 was contributed by seven players, finds Transparency Market Research (TMR) in a new study. These frontrunners are Herbert Waldmann GmBH & Co. KG, Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, Phoenix Medical Systems Pvt. Ltd, GE Healthcare, Natus Medical Incorporated, Atom Medical Corporation, and The Daavlin Company.These market players are entering into strategic collaborations with end users and offer them support in forms of equipment refurbished services, insurance reimbursement, and post-sale services, to strengthen their foothold. These strategies are intensifying the competition prevailing in the global phototherapy equipment market, in order to sustain which key companies are focusing on pricing strategies and product upgradation with new technologies to stay ahead, says TMRs lead analyst. The global phototherapy equipment market was valued at US$415.0 mn in 2015 and is poised to rise to US$603.2 mn by 2024, progressing at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2016 to 2024.Presence of Advanced Healthcare Infrastructure to Fuel North Americas DominanceOn the basis of end user, hospital was at the forefront of growth in 2015, representing over 47.0% of the overall market revenue. The high customer preference along with the presence of favorable reimbursement policies for hospital treatments will help the segment in retaining dominance until 2024.Geographically, North America held a dominant share of about 40.0% in the global phototherapy equipment market in 2015. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the high levels of awareness and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Asia Pacific, on the other hand, is estimated to post a tremendous CAGR during the review period, thanks to the increasing investments in the upgradation of distribution channels.Request to download and view full ToC -Advent of Novel Technologies to Widen Scope of Applications of Phototherapy EquipmentThe growing number of cases of neonatal jaundice worldwide is escalating the demand for effective phototherapy treatments. In some cases, it can lead to severe hyperbilirubinemia, acute bilirubin encephalopathy, and chronic bilirubin encephalopathy. It is possible to prevent hyperbilirubinemia through early diagnosis and effective phototherapy, which has an important part to play in the growth of the global phototherapy equipment market, says a TMR analyst. Apart from this, the rising incidence of skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis is stoking the growth the global market.With the introduction of new and innovative technologies, the global phototherapy equipment market is anticipated to tread along a healthy growth track. The new designs available are cheaper and more advanced, which has stirred up the demand for phototherapy equipment in developing countries. Considering this, their increased use has been witnessed in alternative treatments as well. To put this in perspective, phototherapy, along with photosensitizing chemical substances, finds application in photodynamic therapy to treat cancer. Moreover, the spiraling demand for minimally invasive procedures is providing a fillip to the market.Request to view Sample Report -Increasing Stringency in Regulations to Hamper Growth ProspectsThe high prices of phototherapy equipment are limiting their widespread adoption, especially in developing and less developed countries. Besides this, the increasing stringency in regulations pertaining to their approval is rendering it difficult for new players to enter the arena, thus restricting the scope of expansion of the global phototherapy equipment market,Furthermore, rapid advancements and developments in the medical science sector have paved way for various alternative modes of treatment. The growing demand for alternative treatment such as systematic and topical therapies is, therefore, keeping the market from realizing its utmost potential. Nevertheless, the increasing initiatives by key players to promote phototherapy outreach and the presence of favorable reimbursement policies in emerging countries are offering immense growth opportunities to the global phototherapy equipment market.Phototherapy Equipment Market Report is available @ US$ 5795About 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:
Pack Conveyors Market Predicted to Witness Surge in the Near Future( 2017-2027)

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-4779

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-4779

www.futuremarketinsights.com

Global Pack Conveyors Market: IntroductionPack conveyors are used to deliver packs or products from one sector of a firm or a machine to another. Pack conveyors are built on a solid steel frame and it protects the packs which are loaded on it, against friction and chafing. It transports different pack types like cartons and plastic crates safely to their fixed destination. One of the major factors, expected to facilitate growth of the global pack conveyors market is, almost all of its components are pre-assembled and therefore, is ready for use within a small interval, based on plug-and-play principle. A pack conveyor of proven resistance is capable of supporting heavy product flow, which is expected to drive growth of the global pack conveyors market. Ease of operation and durability are some of the other attributes expected to catapult the global pack conveyors market. Pack conveyors are customizable, and therefore, can be modified to suit different pack requirements. The various types of pack conveyors available in the market include belt conveyors, slat conveyors, and roller conveyors, among others, which are equipped with automatic format change and can be either multi or single way. The dynamic nature of pack conveyors allow them to be integrated with some of the most common machinery available in the market, which include dividers, applicators and palletizers.Global Pack Conveyors Market: DynamicsPack conveyors are used for quick and heavy transportation of a variety of materials or packs which increases their preference in material handling and packaging industries. Pack conveyors are also equipped with low consumption motors, which also facilitates their maintenance. Among the sub types of pack conveyors, belt conveyors held the largest market share in 2016. Rapid modernization and increase in production volume are some of the major factors, which are expected to drive growth of the global pack conveyors market. Pack Conveyors help to simplify the task of bulk or heavy material handling and play a significant role by reducing and minimizing the probability of human errors. There is also an increasing demand of pack conveyors in various storage, distributor centres and warehouses, which is anticipated to directly translate into growth of the global pack conveyors market. There are other trends, which are expected to facilitate growth of the global pack conveyors market, including, emergence of eco-friendly pack conveyors, ushering in a new era of green conveying.Request For Report Sample@Global Pack Conveyors Market: SegmentationOn the basis of product type the global pack conveyors market has been segmented as follows:Slat conveyorsBelt conveyorsRoller conveyorsAccumulation conveyorsLBP conveyorsOn basis of applications the global pack conveyors market has been segmented as follows:Primary packaged productsSecondary packaged productsOn basis of different types of chains, the global pack conveyors market has been segmented as follows:Thermoplastic resinRubberRollerModularOn the basis of End Use Industry, the global pack conveyors market has been segmented as follows:Food IndustryHealthcare IndustryAutomotive IndustryAerospace IndustryGlobal Pack Conveyors Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, the pack conveyors market can be segmented intoNorth AmericaLatin AmericaWestern EuropeEastern Europe,Asia Pacific (excluding Japan)Japan, andMiddle East & Africa (MEA).The rise in manufacturing and other industries will drive growth of the pack conveyors market in the APAC region. Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the most prominent growth, over the forecast period. India and China are forecast to be the key contributors to the global pack conveyors market in this region. Europe is expected to lead the global pack conveyors market, in terms of volume.Visit For TOC@Global Pack Conveyors Market: Key PlayersFew of the key players operating in the global pack conveyors market are - ACMI SpA, S.V. Modular Conveyors Private Limited, Shuttleworth LLC, Bando Chemical Industries, Ltd., Power Pack Conveyor Company, Integrated Conveyors and Pacline Automation Technologies, Phoenix Conveyor Belt Systems GmbH, and Vetromeccanica srl.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACTFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Market Report 2017 : Marykay, Shiseido, Watsons, Unilever

Market Research Reports

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1254800&type=E

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/global-aloe-vera-gel-sales-market-report-2017.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1254800&type=D

Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Market Report 2017" to its huge collection of research reports.The market research report deliberates on various factors pertaining to the global Aloe Vera Gel market which articulates the present data and future opportunities present in the market referring to the dynamics at play. The key aim of the research report is to offer a detailed gestalt to the readers about the global Aloe Vera Gel market and provide them with useful information and data. The market research report additionally deals in aspects such as drivers, restraints, and opportunities in to measure the outcome of these factors on the global Aloe Vera Gel market over the forecast period mentioned in the report. The report also presents a brief yet exclusive outline of the individual market, which contains several accounts of the major aspects which are anticipated to trigger growth in the market or have a negative impact.This report further digs deep into the global Aloe Vera Gel market by meticulously evaluating the production and industrial chain of the conforming market. This information will further aid in broadcasting accurate data and statistics on numerous factors of the respective market such as information pertaining to policies of the government in the regional and global level, manufacturing and circulation structure, industrial capacity, volume sold, and revenue earned among others.Fill the form to gain deeper insights on this market @Global Aloe Vera Gel market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Aloe Vera Gel sales volume, Price (USD/MT), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players includingForever LivingNatural RepublicMarykayShiseidoWatsonsGNCP & GUnileverL'OrealLVMHPatanjali AyurvedPechoinBase Formula LtdThe research report will also be incomplete without a thorough assessment of the vendor landscape of the global Aloe Vera Gel market, which includes the facts and figures, activities and inventions of the leaders in the global Aloe Vera Gel market. The study also delivers an all-embracing assessment of the chief regions stated in the report for the global Aloe Vera Gel market. For every region, the report pronounces the array of growth so far and clearing on what market players can do to ensure profitability in the upcoming years.Table of Content1 Aloe Vera Gel Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Aloe Vera Gel1.2 Classification of Aloe Vera Gel by Product Category1.3 Global Aloe Vera Gel Market by Application/End Users1.4 Global Aloe Vera Gel Market by Region1.5 Global Market Size (Value and Volume) of Aloe Vera Gel (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Aloe Vera Gel Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Browse full table of contents and data tables of Report @2 Global Aloe Vera Gel Competition by Players/Suppliers, Type and Application2.1 Global Aloe Vera Gel Market Competition by Players/Suppliers2.1.1 Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales and Market Share of Key Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Aloe Vera Gel Revenue and Share by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Aloe Vera Gel (Volume and Value) by Type2.2.1 Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)2.2.2 Global Aloe Vera Gel Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)2.3 Global Aloe Vera Gel (Volume and Value) by Region2.4 Global Aloe Vera Gel (Volume) by Application3 United States Aloe Vera Gel (Volume, Value and Sales Price)3.1 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales and Value (2012-2017)3.1.1 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2017)3.1.2 United States Aloe Vera Gel Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2017)3.1.3 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales Price Trend (2012-2017)3.2 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume and Market Share by Players3.3 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume and Market Share by Type3.4 United States Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume and Market Share by Application9 Global Aloe Vera Gel Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data9.1 Forever Living9.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.1.2 Aloe Vera Gel Product Category, Application and Specification9.1.3 Forever Living Aloe Vera Gel Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.2 Natural Republic9.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.2.2 Aloe Vera Gel Product Category, Application and Specification9.2.3 Natural Republic Aloe Vera Gel Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview9.3 Marykay9.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors9.3.2 Aloe Vera Gel Product Category, Application and Specification9.3.3 Marykay Aloe Vera Gel Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)9.3.4 Main Business/Business OverviewGet discount copy atList of Tables and FiguresFigure Product Picture of Aloe Vera GelFigure Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume Comparison (K MT) by Type (2012-2022)Figure Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2016Figure Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Comparison (K MT) by Application (2012-2022)Figure Global Sales Market Share of Aloe Vera Gel by Application in 2016Figure Global Aloe Vera Gel Market Size (Million USD) by Regions (2012-2022)Figure Global Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume (K MT) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Global Aloe Vera Gel Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Global Market Major Players Aloe Vera Gel Sales Volume (K MT) (2012-2017)About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact US:1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Pan Liners Market Trends, Forecast, and Analysis by Future Market Insights( 2017-2027)

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-4780

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-4780

www.futuremarketinsights.com

Global Pan Liners Market: IntroductionPan liners are PTL or nylon based products, which lie or rest at the bottom of the pans and act as line of separation between the pan and the food in the pan. The need for non-stick pans drives growth in demand for pan liners. Spontaneous change in food consumption patterns of consumers has forced pan liner manufacturers to innovate in terms of consumer convenience. The high preference of pan liners is attributed to enhanced food quality, enhanced food yield, and hygiene. Pan liners do not allow food to stick to the surface of the pan, resulting in decreased food loss. Pan liners enable convenient utensil handling, thereby reducing chances of unsanitary cooking. Growing disposable income of consumers has led to growth in demand for more convenience in cooking, which is expected to boost the global pan liners market. Another major factor which is expected to contribute to growth of the global pan liners market is  customizability. Pan liner manufactures emphasize on the environmentally sensitive products made from chlorine-free pulp. All these factors ensure a promising future outlook for the global pan liners market.Global Pan Liners Market: DynamicsThere are many factors that facilitate growth of the global pan liners market. Convenience associated with usage of pan liners is expected to drive the market, as modern consumers emphasize on convenience. When used commercially, pan liners help reduce operational cost by eliminating labour time and cleaning costs that involve greasing and washing baking pans. Pan liners help to prevent contaminant residue formation after usage, which can be harmful for consumers. As a result, pan liners enjoy high preference, and the global pan liner market is poised to grow over the forecast period. Pan liners are convenient to use, owing to features such as prevention of food-to-pan contact, ultimately improving the quality of food. More emphasis on hygiene is expected to be the major factor driving the global pan liners market. Furthermore, new varieties, such as ovenable, and dual-ovenable pan liners are expected to heavily influence growth of the global pan liners market. Despite the positive outlook, there are certain factors that might hamper growth of the global pan liners market, including, changing food consumption habits of consumers. Many people prefer dining out and on-the-go food consumption trend has picked up, due to a fast-paced lifestyle. The growing working population might limit growth of the global pan liners market. In addition, growing use of alternate non-stick cooking products, such as Teflon coated pans, is also expected to impact the global pan liners market and reduce growth.Request For Report Sample@Global Pan Liners Market: SegmentationPan liners market can be segmented on the basis of raw material, product type, and end use.On the basis of product type:Ovenable pan linersSteam pan liners.On the basis of material type:PapersFabricsOn the basis of end use:Commercial establishmentHouseholdsGlobal Pan Liners Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, the pan liners market has been segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific (excluding Japan), Japan and Middle East & Africa (MEA). North America currently leads the global pan liners market. However, Asia Pacific is anticipated to have a prominent CAGR because of increasing awareness among consumers regarding hygiene. Countries such as India have witnessed increased migration of people from rural areas to urban centres, which helps generate awareness regarding hygiene. Increasing disposable income in these regions, coupled with increasing consumer awareness is expected to lead consumers to focus on hygiene. As a result, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness pans manufacturers focusing more on products such as pan liners.Visit For TOC@Global Pan Liners Market: Key PlayersFew of the key players operating in the global pan liners market are  Papertec, Inc., Johnson Bros. Metal Forming Co., Griff Paper & Film, A-Pac Manufacturing Co., Paterson Pacific Parchment Company, SunAmericaConverting, LLC, Loroco Industries - Cincinnati, OH, Brown Paper Goods.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACTFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Report 2022 : B&B Electronics, Lantronix, Advantech

Market Research Reports

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1305755&type=E

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/united-states-serial-to-ethernet-device-servers-market-report-2022.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1305755&type=D

Qyresearchreports include new market research report "United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Report 2022" to its huge collection of research reports.The United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market has been exhaustively analyzed by best-in-breed researchers with special focus on profound insights capable of equipping sellers, investors, and producers for making the right business decisions. Participants could expect to receive a thorough evaluation of demand and supply and production and sales factors taking shape in the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market. In respect of both volume and value, the analysts have exhibited their meticulous skills for obtaining crucial statistics that pertain to the current and future standing of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market.For more information on this report, fill the form @Untapped and other significant business opportunities have been singularly highlighted in the publication for players to fortify their position in the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market against the challenges. From raw material dealers to end users, the entire value chain of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market has been assessed to the core for providing a healthier understanding about the business strategies and other important aspects of the success of leading players.The major players in USA market includeB&B ElectronicsLantronixAdvantechNetBurnerPerleATENMoxaDigi InternationalSilex TechnologyOtherBesides performing a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market, the authors of the report have shed light on the competitive landscape while implementing Porters five forces model. The quantitative analysis encompasses the CAGR for all segments, forecast, and overall size of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market coupled with shares secured by key companies. On the other hand, qualitative analysis shares critical information across vital dynamics and trends of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market. Toward the end of the report, the researchers have recommended some of the best strategies for participants to plan in the wake of the changing dynamics of the United States Serial to Ethernet Device Servers market landscape.Table of Contents1 Industry Overview11.1 Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Overview11.2 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market by Product21.3 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market by End Users/Application61.4 Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Development History and Outlook111.4.1 Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Development History and Status111.4.2 Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Development Outlook14Get more information from Research Report Press Release:2 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Competition Analysis by Players152.1 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size (Value) by Players (2012-2017)152.2 Competitive Status and Trend183 Company (Top Players) Profiles and Key Data193.1 B&B Electronics193.1.1 Company Profile193.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview203.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions203.1.4 B&B Electronics Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)263.2 Lantronix273.2.1 Company Profile273.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview293.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions293.2.4 Lantronix Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)373.3 Advantech383.3.1 Company Profile383.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview393.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions393.3.4 Advantech Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)443.4 NetBurner463.4.1 Company Profile463.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview473.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions473.4.4 NetBurner Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)544 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size by Product (2012-2017)924.1 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size by Product (2012-2017)924.2 External Serial Device Servers Development in USA954.3 Embedded Serial Device Servers Development in USA965 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size by Application/End Users (2012-2017)975.1 USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size by Application (2012-2017)975.2 Industry Development in USA1005.3 Medical Development in USA1015.4 Telecommunications Development in USA102Check Discount @List of Tables and FiguresFigure Serial to Ethernet Device Servers1Figure USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2Table USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue (K USD) and Growth Rate (%) Comparison by Product (2012-2022)2Figure USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Revenue Market Share (%) by Product in 20163Figure External Serial Device Servers Market Size (Value) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)5Figure Embedded Serial Device Servers Market Size (K USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)6TableUSA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Size (K USD) Comparison by Applications (2012-2022)6Figure USA Serial to Ethernet Device Servers Market Share by Application in 20167About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact US:1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
China Luxury Hotels Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022 : Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Hyatt

Market Research Reports

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1305795&type=E

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/china-luxury-hotels-market-size-status-and-forecast-2022.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1305795&type=D

Qyresearchreports include new market research report "China Luxury Hotels Market Size, Status and Forecast 2022" to its huge collection of research reports.The China Luxury Hotels market is driven by the various factors, a detailed analysis of which is included in the report. The report provides valuable recommendation to the companies in order to help them adapt winning strategies. It comprises the information pertaining to the opportunities and threats that the China Luxury Hotels market is projected to witness during the forecast period. Industry-leading tools are used to provide detail information regarding the companies profiled. The report also provides in-depth analysis of the competition prevailing in the China Luxury Hotels market.The market study also offers a thorough overview of the competitive landscape in the market. The report analyzes the China Luxury Hotels market on certain criteria such as product, application, current condition, and geography. The report also sheds light on the current market trends and their impact on the China Luxury Hotels market. Analysis is conducted in order to find strengths and weaknesses of companies profiled. For this purpose. The report also discusses the prominent players competition on the China as well as domestic level.For more information on this report, fill the form @The major players in China market include Marriott, Hilton, Starwood(Marriott), Hyatt, Four Seasons Holdings, Shangri-La, InterContinental, Mandarin Oriental, The Indian Hotels, Jumeirah, Kerzner, ITCThe report serves as an ideal tool for companies looking to survive and thrive in the China Luxury Hotels market. The performance of the leading companies have been studied in this report The study offers an informative outline of company profile, product portfolio, research, mergers, and growth strategies. The relative share of each segment in the China Luxury Hotels market is presented in the report. The historical and current development of each segment is charted in the report. This information helps clients gain a better understanding of the China Luxury Hotels market.Table of Contents1 Industry Overview1.1 Luxury Hotels Market Overview1.1.1 Luxury Hotels Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 China Luxury Hotels Market by Product1.3 China Luxury Hotels Market by End Users/Application1.4 Luxury Hotels Development History and OutlookGet more information from Research Report Press Release:2 China Luxury Hotels Competition Analysis by Players2.1 China Luxury Hotels Market Size (Value) by Players (2012-2017)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future3 Company (Top Players) Profiles and Key Data3.1 Marriott3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Marriott Luxury Hotels Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.1.5 Recent Developments3.2 Hilton3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Hilton Luxury Hotels Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.2.5 Recent Developments3.3 Starwood(Marriott)3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 Starwood(Marriott) Luxury Hotels Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.3.5 Recent Developments3.4 Hyatt3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 Hyatt Luxury Hotels Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.4.5 Recent DevelopmentsRequest A Discount on This report @List of Tables and FiguresTableChina Luxury Hotels Market Size (Million USD) Split by ProductTableChina Luxury Hotels Market Size (Million USD) by Application (2016-2022)Figure China Luxury Hotels Market Size Status and Outlook (2012-2022)TableChina Luxury Hotels Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (%) Comparison by Product (2012-2022)Figure China Luxury Hotels Revenue Market Share (%) by Product in 2016Figure Business Hotels Market Size (Value) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)Figure Suite Hotels Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)Figure Airport Hotels Market Size (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2017)TableChina Luxury Hotels Market Size (Million USD) Comparison by Applications (2012-2022)About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact US:1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Research Report 2017 : Boston Dynamics, Endeavor Robotics

Market Research Reports

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/report/global-security-and-law-enforcement-robots-market-research-report-2017.htm

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1316771&type=E

http://www.qyresearchreports.com/sample/sample.php?rep_id=1316771&type=D

Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Research Report 2017" to its huge collection of research reports.In this report, the global Security and Law Enforcement Robots market is valued at USD XX million in 2016 and is expected to reach USD XX million by the end of 2022, growing at a CAGR of XX% between 2016 and 2022.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Security and Law Enforcement Robots in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Security and Law Enforcement Robots market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingBoston DynamicsEndeavor RoboticsLockheed MartinSMP RoboticsCobalt RoboticsSuperDroid RobotsNorthrop Grumman RemotecABBKUKAFisnarObtain Report Details @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoElectric drive robotsHydraulic robotsPneumatic robotsOn 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 Security and Law Enforcement Robots for each application, includingUnmanned logisticsBorder patrolling and bomb detectionLaw enforcementTable of Contents1 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Security and Law Enforcement Robots1.2 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Segment by Type (Product Category)1.3 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Segment by Application1.4 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market by Region (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Security and Law Enforcement Robots (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Security and Law Enforcement Robots Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Competitive Situation and TrendsFill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @3 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.4 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.5 North America Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.6 Europe Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.7 China Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.8 Japan Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)4 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Region (2012-2017)4.1 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Consumption by Region (2012-2017)4.2 North America Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.3 Europe Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.4 China Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.5 Japan Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.6 Southeast Asia Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)4.7 India Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2012-2017)7 Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Boston Dynamics7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.3 Boston Dynamics Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Endeavor Robotics7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.3 Endeavor Robotics Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Lockheed Martin7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Security and Law Enforcement Robots Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.3 Lockheed Martin Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.3.4 Main Business/Business OverviewTo Get Discount Of This Report Click here @List of Tables and FiguresFigure Picture of Security and Law Enforcement RobotsFigure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production (K Units) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Types (Product Category) (2012-2022)Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Production Market Share by Types (Product Category) in 2016Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Consumption (K Units) by Applications (2012-2022)Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Consumption Market Share by Applications in 2016Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Market Size (Million USD), Comparison (K Units) and CAGR (%) by Regions (2012-2022)Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Revenue (Million USD) Status and Outlook (2012-2022)Figure Global Security and Law Enforcement Robots Capacity, Production (K Units) Status and Outlook (2012-2022)About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact US:1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Medical Device Labeling Market size and Key Trends in terms of volume and value 2016-2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15410

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15410

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Labeling is defined as the particular information associated with a device targeted to the end user or patient or lay caregiver. Medical device labeling helps patients or end users in understanding the device, its operation, care and maintenance. The medical device labeling also provides information about the way device interacts with the body to accomplish its purpose, its place and patient care and treatment program. Medical device labelling gives the adequate directions for operating the devices which are needed for safe and effective use. Basically, the medical device labeling is driven by the rules and regulations specified by the regulatory authority U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA has specified the sections based on the usage and applications of the devices.Request Sample Copy of the Report @The global medical device labeling market has expected to register the significant growth over the forecast period due to the increasing demand of end use market of medical devices which drives the global medical device labeling market. The increasing awareness about the need of information regarding device, its safety and effective usage also drives the growth of the global medical device labeling market. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the global regulatory body has specified some mandatory guidelines and regulations for the medical device labeling which also drives the global medical device labeling market.However, as per the FDA guideline and regulations, maintaining the standardized format of labeling throughout the medical device industry has become difficult which could restrain the growth of the global medical device labeling market.The global medical device labeling market is segmented on the basis of the code of federal regulations, type of medical devices, label position, packaging practices and geographical region.Based on the type of medical devices, the global medical device labeling market is segmented into:Class I general controlsWith exemptionsWithout exemptionsClass II general controls and special controlsWith exemptionsWithout exemptionsClass II general controls and premarket approvalBased on the code of federal regulations, the global medical device labeling market is segmented into:General Device Labeling - 21 CFR Part 801In Vitro Diagnostic Products - 21 CFR Part 809Investigational Device Exemptions - 21 CFR Part 812Unique Device Identification - 21CFR Part 830Good Manufacturing Practices - 21 CFR Part 820General Electronic Products - 21 CFR Part 1010Based on the packaging practices, the global medical device labeling market is segmented into:On deviceOn packingLeaflet in the packingBased on the label position, the global medical device labeling market is segmented into:Primary level of packagingSecondary level of packagingIn terms of geography, the global medical device labeling market has been divided into five key regions, including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA). The global medical device labeling market has expected to register a significant growth rate over the forecast period. North America has contributed the major share to the global medical device labeling market as the demand of ultimate end use medical device market is anticipated to grow across the forecast period. Europe is also growing at a decent growth and expected to register the significance CAGR over the forecast period due to the strict government regulations about medical device labeling. APAC is expected to register the healthy growth rate due to increasing healthcare facilities and increasing demand of medical devices. Latin America and MEA are at a nascent stage and anticipated to register the moderate growth rate over the forecast period in the global medical devices labeling marketSome of the key players of the global medical devices labeling market are SGS SA, Loftware Inc., UBM Canon, Quality Tech Services, Inc., Weber Packaging Solutions, Inc., Seagull Scientific, Inc., Master Control, Inc., Euro Plus, Registrar Corp and Pharmaceutic Litho & Label Company. Various global companies are contributing descent growth to the global medical device labeling market. The key players from North America are contributing major share to the global medical devices labeling in terms of value and volume.Over all the global medical device labeling market has expected to register a significant growth over the forecast period.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.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Human Centric Market Analysis, Upturns and Key Vendors  Philips, Osram, Zumtobel Lighting, Arcluce and Forecast to 2027

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1062

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/human-centric-market

Market Research Future published a research report on Global Human Centric Market Research Report- Global Forecast 2027  Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2027.Market Synopsis of Human Centric MarketMarket ScenarioHuman Centric Lightings are the new concept which has been found helpful in well-being of a person. According to studies, human centric lightning are successfully proven in successful increasing well-being of people and also illuminating the mood of people. This market has seen tremendous opportunities in the upcoming years in various applications.Get Sample of Report @Key playersThe key players in the market of human centric lightning are- Philips (Netherland), Osram (Germany), Zumtobel Lighting (Austria), NormaGrup Technology (Spain), Arcluce (Italy), Fagerhult (Swedan), Waldmann Lighting (U.S.), 3F Filippi S.p.A. (Italy), ES-SYSTEM S.A. (Poland), CoeLux (Italy) among others.Study Objective of Human Centric MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Human Centric MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo analyze the Human Centric 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- North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW)To provide country level analysis of the market with respect to the current market size and future prospectiveTo provide country level analysis of the market for segment by application, by region and sub-segments.To provide strategic profiling of key players in the market, comprehensively analyzing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the marketTo track and analyze competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and developments in the Global Human Centric MarketGet Complete Report @Regional Analysis:North America is leading the market of Human Centric Lightning with the market share of XX% and has been valued at US $XX million in the year 2015. Industrialization is the key driver for this market. This market has also broad role in hospitality and as North America is becoming the most desirable place, this market holds good grip on this market.Market SegmentationSegmentation by Application: Industrial, Office/commercial, Education, Medical, Residential among others.Segmentation by Region: Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific & RoW.The report for Global Human Centric 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.About Us: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.Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Bio Container Market Volume Analysis, Segments, Value Share and Key Trends 2016-2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15422

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15422

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Bio container or biodegradable container are easily decomposed in nature by bacteria or other living organisms. Recently, recyclable bio container are also getting popular and being launched by several bio container manufacturers. In April 2012, Cardia Bioplastics Limited claims that it has launched the worlds first food contact compliant and fully recyclable container namely Biohybrid for the global nutritional supplement market and cosmetics industries. Bio container are used to keep biodegradable materials, food waste, organic materials etc. Recently, rising demand from the end use industries and increasing application of bio container attributed to significant growth to the bio container market in terms of value.Request Sample Copy of the Report @Bio Container Market  Market Segmentation:Based on materials, bio container market is segmented intoBio-PETPLA and blendsStarch blendsBio-PEOthers including PBS and PHAOn the basis of application, the market is segmented intoBags and PouchesBoxesBinsOthersBased on end user industry, bio container market is segmented intoFood & BeverageHouseholdAgriculturePharmaceuticalsOthers (Healthcare and electronics)Bio Container Market  Regional Outlook:Geographically, the bio container market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA). The growth of global bio container market is expected to witness a healthy CAGR over the forecast period between 2016 and 2024. North America is expected to hold a significantly high market share of the bio container market in terms of volume during the forecast period. Currently, North America and Europe together holds more than half of the market share in the global bio container market in terms of value. In Europe, countries such as U.K and EU4 creates significant demand for plant-based plastic packaging in the market. However, Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest growing region in terms of volume sales followed by Europe. Large scale foreign investment is also expected to rise in the region, and is anticipated to fuel the demand of bio container over the forecast period. Many small Chinese players hold significant market share in the Asia Pacific bio container market in terms of value. In Asia Pacific, countries including China, Japan and Australia are the major growth driving markets for bio container in terms of revenue contribution. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and Mexico are expected to grow significantly during the forecast period in terms of revenue.Bio container Market  Market Dynamics:The global bio container market is expected to witness a strong growth due to the rising consumer awareness about nature friendly products and changing inclination of consumers towards sustainable products. Other growth drivers for the bio container market include rise in implementation of plastic containers bans, increased focus on sustainable packaging by brand owners and retail companies, etc. Moreover, high demand from food and beverage and pharmaceutical industry for bio container creates a lucrative opportunity for the global bio container market. Bio container has higher costs than ordinary container, consequently bio container is not getting wide acceptance, especially among the small and medium enterprises. However, increasing demand from large scale industrial companies is expected to create significant opportunity to increase the revenue of the global bio container market.Bio Container Market  Major Players:Some of the major players identified across the globe in the bio container market Eco-Products, Inc., Genpak, LLC, Biopac (UK) Ltd, WestRock Company, Cardia Bioplastics Limited, Ecoware SpA, Rim Bio Inc., Biopac India Corporation Ltd., BioVentures, Inc., Tipa-corp ltd., Novamont SpA and BASF SE.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geography, packaging type, material and end-use.The Report covers exhaustive Analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends /Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyRegional Analysis includes:North AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East & AfricaThe report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative, and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
High-barrier BOPP Film Market Growth, Trends, Absolute Opportunity and Value Chain 2016-2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15434

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15422

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

High barrier BOPP film is relative definition since the concept is strictly dependent on applications: Flexible packaging materials are the subject of this paper and shelf life requirement for the different products set the barrier properties level. High barrier BOPP films are flexible and used in a varied kind of applications such as plain films, heat sealable films, multi-layer films, metallized films, pearlized films, synthetic paper, white opaque films, label films, shrink films, high barrier films, and capacitor films.Request Sample Copy of the Report @Metallized high barrier BOPP films have wide application by the food industry to prevent leakage.Among all these application of BOPP films, high barrier BOPP films are designed for fresh food items and are produced in connection with other materials such as PA or EVOH in or nine seven-layer configurations. Block bottom Food packaging is one of the primary markets for a new high barrier BOPP film. This packaging film promises high oxygen, high clarity, and moisture barriers and, notably, lacks polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC). This type of high barrier BOPP films is designed for use as the inside sealant web for the packaging of crisp salty snacks, bakery items, crackers, cookies, granola, confections, fruit and nut mixes, and as well as non-food items and dry pet food and treats. The high barrier characteristic in high barrier BOPP film prevent interchanging actions between packed food products and their internal and external environment. They prevents food material from contamination, dust, light, gas, mechanical impact, and moisture.High-barrier BOPP Film Market: Market DynamicsThe growth in the high barrier BOPP film market is primarily attributed to the evolving life-style of consumers, due to growing block bottom food packaging is one of the primary markets driving the growth of the high-barrier BOPP film market. In addition, rising urbanization in the developing countries are the key factors responsible for the increasing demand for high-barrier BOPP film market. As consumers are continuously changing their purchasing and eating behavior and to store food for months in and even out of the refrigerator are the major factors which are rising the demand of high barrier BOPP film market. These films provide the conditions for a high-barrier layer against gas, moisture, and aromas and the advantage to keep food products fresh for a longer period.High barrier BOPP films are also used for delicate products that require an extended shelf life thereby boosting up the demnad for high barrier bOPP film market.Food packaging industry is the foremost consumer for high-barrier BOPP film which uses this material for packaging solutions. However, pharmaceutical and personal care packaging are increasingly finding an application of high barrier BOPP film. High barrier BOPP film market is widely used by food industry as a product packaging solution owing to the need for extending the product shelf life.On the other hand, the major factors restraining the growth of high-barrier BOPP film market are new advanced rigid packaging demand in packaging market and standard and quality issues for high barrier BOPP films. Growth of high barrier BOPP film market is hindered because of low quality sealing.High-barrier BOPP Film Market: Market SegmentationThe global high-barrier BOPP film market is segmented into three parts based on the type, service type, application, and geography.Based on the type the high-barrier BOPP film market is segmented into:EVOH high barrier BOPP filmSiOx high barrier BOPP filmSiOx high barrier BOPP filmAlOx high barrier BOPP filmOthersBased on the type of application the high barrier BOPP film market is segmented into:Food packagingMedical & pharmaceutical packagingConsumer products packagingIndustrialOthersHigh barrier BOPP Film Market: Regional OutlookRegarding geography, the high barrier BOPP film market has been divided into five key regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. The global high barrier BOPP film market is expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. North America is experiencing the rapid increase in the production capacity of the particular product. Also, the demand for the high barrier BOPP film is very high in US and Canada due to the changing lifestyle, and low manufacturing cost. Asia Pacific is also expected to witness steady growth during the forecast period primarily attributed to the growth of packaging market, especially in China and India. The Europe market is projected to register healthy growth for the early adoption by the marketers.High barrier BOPP Film Market: Key playersSome of the key players global high barrier BOPP film market are ANDRITZ, Celplast Metallized Products, Flex Film Ltd., and many others. Capacity of cooling kit market to meet the increasing demand of the product by developing new production plants or by the acquisition of small players in the market.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections done using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to categories such as market segments, geographies, types, material, and applications.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyValue ChainRegional analysis includesNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East and AfricaThe report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides an in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators, and governing factors, along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various factors on market segments and geographies.Report Highlights:Detailed overview of parent marketChanging market dynamics in the industryIn-depth market segmentationHistorical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and valueRecent industry trends and developmentsCompetitive landscapeStrategies of key players and products offeredPotential and niche segments, and regional markets exhibiting promising growthA neutral perspective on market performanceMust-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprintThe report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth insights, understanding market evolution by tracking historical developments, and analyzing the present scenario and future projections based on optimistic and likely scenarios. Each research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology developments, types, applications, and the competitive landscape.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market 2027 by Future Trends, applications and Key Companies  Amphenol Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Siemens AG and Samsung SDI

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1085

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/hybrid-battery-energy-storage-system-market

Market Research Future published a research report on Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market Research Report- Global Forecast to 2027  Market Analysis, Scope, Stake, Progress, Trends and Forecast to 2027.Market Synopsis of Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System MarketMarket ScenarioThe major growth driver of Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market includes growing demand for high power and high energy density of batteries, growing need for high energy storage system for load shifting, and growing small and medium sized businesses among others.However, lack of skilled employment and complex manufacturing process are the major factors which are hindering the growth of Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market.Get Sample of Report @Key playersSome of the major players in Global Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market include Amphenol Corporation (U.S.), Lockheed Martin (U.S.), General electric Corporation (U.S.), Panasonic Corporation (Japan), AEG Power Solutions (The Netherland), Hitachi ltd (Japan), NEC Corporation (Japan), Samsung SDI Co., ltd. (South Korea), Siemens AG (Germany), and Tesla Motors ltd. (U.S.). among others.Study Objective of Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth To analyze the Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System 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- North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW) To provide country level analysis of the market with respect to the current market size and future prospective To provide country level analysis of the market for segment by application, by region and sub-segments. To provide strategic profiling of key players in the market, comprehensively analyzing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the market To track and analyze competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and developments in the Global Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System MarketGet Complete Report @SegmentsGlobal Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System Market can be segmented as follows: Segmentation by Technologies: Supercapacitor, Ultracapacitor, Lithium-ion, and Fly-wheel among others. Segmentation by Application: Residential, Non-Residential, Automotive, and Utility among others.Industry News: Amphenol Corporation has announced on July 2016 about its PT series of connectors with a swift disconnect connector which is perfect to use in battery storage management. AEG Power solution has announced on June 2016 about its new invention of hybrid energy storage system which is able to combine standard battery storage with power-to-heat technology to reduce the total cost of energy storage operation.The reports also covers brief analysis of Geographical Region includes:Americas North America US Canada Latin AmericaEurope Western Europe Germany France U.K Rest of Western Europe Eastern EuropeAsia Pacific Asia China India Japan South Korea Rest of Asia PacificThe Middle East & AfricaThe report for Hybrid Battery Energy Storage System 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.About Us: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.Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Olanzapine Business Trends That Will Drive Success In 2027

Olanzapine

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/718

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/olanzapine-market

Market Research Future.com add new report of Olanzapine Market Research Report  Global Forecast To 2027 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentGlobal Olanzapine Market Report: OverviewOlanzapine, formerly known as Zyprexa is a US Food and Drug administration approved drug used in the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other neurological disorders. Olanzapine is generic and is available under many trade names worldwide. Olanzapine is promoted in various nations, with tablets running from 2.5 to 20 milligrams. Zyprexa (and nonspecific olanzapine) is accessible as an orally-breaking down "wafer" which quickly disintegrates in spit. It is likewise accessible in 10 milligram vials for intramuscular infusion.Global Olanzapine Market Report: Market InfluencerThe main market influencer for the global Olanzapine market is increase in the population of various countries. As the world population is increasing with the growth rate of more than 1% and people are not getting the complete neutrinos is helping to grow the disease like schizophrenia are forcing the companies to produce more drugs in order to meet the demand and helps the consumer.As per WHO's statistics, 10% of world population experience the ill effects of different sorts of dysfunctional behaviors. As per the insights distributed by the National Center for Mental Health, China-CDC, the quantity of instances of emotional sicknesses is more than 100 million, among which 16 million experience the ill effects of holergasia. Emotional instability has surpassed malignancy and turned into the greatest danger to human wellbeing, positioning first in the aggregate weight of illness in China.With the change of ways of life and the expanded anxiety in work and life achieved by world's monetary advancement, the frequency of emotional sickness and mental issues is developing. In this manner, the business sector size of olanzapine in world is relied upon to continue extending in the following couple of years.Global Olanzapine Market Report: Key PlayersThe key player in the global Olanzapine market includes: WATSON Pharmaceuticals(Changzhou) Hanson Pharmaceutical (Hanson Pharmaceutical has the biggest piece of the pie of around 44% for deals esteem in 2014) Sandoz Zhejiang Langhua Pharmaceuticals Hansoh Pharmaceutical Aurobindo Pharma Jubilant Lifesciencest Torrent Pharmaceuticals Sun Pharmaceutical Lilly Dr. Reddys Laboratories Mylan Pharmaceuticals Apotex Inc. Teva PharmaceuticalRequest a Sample Report @Global Olanzapine Market Report: Market SegmentationFor the better understanding of the topic, Global Olanzapine market report has been segmented on the basis of: Types Application GeographyTypes of Olanzapine is been categorized as ZYPREXA tablets, ZYPREXA ZYDIS and ZYPREXA IntraMuscular which is available for injections. Olanzapine applications includes (Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, among others)Global Olanzapine Market Report: Regional AnalysisOlanzapine is an essential drug for schizophrenia and entered in the European market first time in the year 1996 followed by Chinese market in the year 1999. Olanzapine is one of the highest growing drugs for schizophrenia in the Asia-Pacific with the aggregate CAGR of more than 26%. Asia-Pacific is the biggest market for Olanzapine as it helps to treat the bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Asia pacific holds more than 40% of global population and countries like China, India and Japan which is suffering from heavy population is more affected with the schizophrenia and consumes Olanzapine in high quantity. Another big market for Olanzapine is Europe followed by Americas.Scope of the ReportThe report comprises the deep analysis of Olanzapine by the Country level By Geography Americaso  North America US Canadao  Latin America Argentina Brazil Mexico Rest of LATAM Europeo  Western Europe Germany France Italy Spain U.K Rest of Western Europeo  Eastern Europe Poland Russia Asia  Pacifico  Asia China India Japan South Korea Rest of Asiao  Pacific Countries Australia New Zealand Middle East & Africao  Middle East Saudi Qatar UAE Rest of Middle Easto  Africa South Africa Rest of AfricaEvery report 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 also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.Browse Full Report Details@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. Contact: Akash Anand, Market Research Future +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Pune, India
Cut Flower Packaging Market Size, Analysis, and Forecast Report 2016-2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15449

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15449

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Cut Flower is termed as any flower that is cut from the plant, with its thorns trimmed, and after that flowers are ready to be used in a market for various end use. Cut flowers packaging is grouped into two categories such as single cut flower, and the bunch or a bouquet of cut flowers. Cut flower packaging includes carnations, roses, chrysanthemums, orchids, lilies, and other flowers. For cut flower packaging, flowers are cut with branches, stems, and leaves to be used for bouquets or decorations. There is wide range of packing containers for cut flowers, but most are of them are long and flat in shape. The most demanding product type of cut flower packaging is plastic sleeves to wrap flowers for any festivals, official and unofficial (social) events. Cut flower packaging enables individuals to make their ornamental products even more attractive and demanding. For retail market cut flower packaging is done to meet the requirements of both supply chain and retailers demand.Request Sample Copy of the Report @Cut Flower Packaging Market: Market DynamicsThe growth in the cut flower packaging market is primarily attributed to the evolving lifestyle of consumers, rising environmental concerns, the growth of ornamental packaging market and rising disposable income driving the growth of the cut flower packaging market. In addition, rising urbanization, particularly in the developing countries and increasing demand of sleeves cut flower packaging are the key factors responsible for the overall growth of cut flower packaging across the globe. Nowadays, cut flowers are increasingly used as a decorative material across the world. Furthermore, changing lifestyle preferences, increasing demand for flexible packaging, and growing production of flower across the world especially in Europe, North America and Asia pacific is anticipated to drive the cut flower packaging market. On the other hand, the major factor restraining the growth of cut flower packaging market is storage of the packed material and quality issues such as damage and spoilage of flower.Cut Flower Packaging Market: Market SegmentationThe global cut flower packaging market is segmented into three parts based on the material type, product type, cut flower type, distribution channels, and geography.Based on the material type the cut flower packaging market is segmented into:CardboardPlasticFabricsJuteBased on the product type cut flower the global cut flower packaging market is segmented into:SleevesBoxesPolesBagsMetal StandBased on the type of cut flower the cut flower packaging market is segmented into:Single cut flowerBunch or a bouquet of cut flowersBased on the type of distribution channels the cut flower packaging market is segmented into:Direct Selling,E-commerceOnline retailingOthersCut Flower Packaging Market: Regional OutlookRegarding geography, the cut flower packaging market has been categorized into five key regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. The cut flower packaging market is expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. North America is experiencing the rapid increase in the production capacity of cut flower packaging market as a demand of floral industry is rising rapidly. The Europe cut flower packaging market is projected to register healthy growth as Netherlands accounted for around 52% of global cut flower market share and has been at the center of cut flower production in the European floral market. Also, the demand for the cut flower packaging is very high in US and Canada increasing production of flower, due to the changing lifestyle, and growing demand of the floral industry. Cut flower packaging market for Asia Pacific is also expected to witness steady growth during the forecast period primarily attributed to the growth of packaging market, especially in China and India.Cut Flower Packaging Market: Key playersSome of the key players global cut flower packaging market are T & G Flower Growers, Perlite Vermiculite Packaging Industries, Inc., Chrysal International, Dongguan Yason Pack Co., Ltd., Shenzhen CyGedin Printing & Packaging and many others. The capacity of cut flower packaging market to meet the increasing demand for the sleeves packaging by developing new production plants or by the product type advancement.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections done using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to categories such as market segments, geographies, types, material, and applications.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyValue ChainRegional analysis includesNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East and AfricaThe report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides an in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators, and governing factors, along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various factors on market segments and geographies.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Private Label Packaging Market Expected to Expand at a Steady CAGR through 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15455

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15455

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Private Label Packaging: OverviewPackaging became a need of a product launch strategy, from the past decade. Packaging is the need of all industries, from designing to printing and from raw material supplies to processing. Packaging industry witnessed large scale technology adoption regarding equipment, films, and packaging methods. Moreover, demand for primary packaging is at the stagnant level. Private label packaging is one of such solution, which allows wrapping of the container of the private label products. This form of packaging is largely used in packaging consumer products such as food and beverage, cosmetic, etc. On the milieu of growth in FMCG products, the demand for private label packaging market also surged up and is projected to remain impressive in near future.Request Sample Copy of the Report @Private Label Packaging: DynamicsDemand for convenient packaging and rising disposable income are the key factors driving the growth of private label packaging market. The availability of a wide range of innovative packaging solutions is likely to have a significant influence on the demand for private label packaging market during the forecast period. Other factors driving the market are growing food and beverage industry, growing packaging industry, growing cosmetic industry, etc. The major factor restraining the private label packaging market is the consumer loyalty for the existing brands especially in Asia Pacific and Middle East Africa region. The factor trending the private label packaging market consumer demand for convenient packaging, demand for competitive cost packaging, etc. The companies of private label packaging have significant opportunity in premium private label packaging as it has relatively high demand in private label packaging market than the economical private label packaging.Private Label Packaging: SegmentationBasically private label packaging market is segmented by end use, packaging type and by region. The global private label packaging market is segmented on the basis of end use into cosmetic industry, food and beverage industry and others. Among these cosmetic industry has significantly high value share followed by food.Based on the end-user the global private label packaging market is segmented into:CosmeticsFood & beveragesOthersBased on the packaging type the global private label packaging market is segmented into:Corrugated boxesCorrugated displaysFolding cartoonsPlastic containersOthers( metal/glass structures)Based on the packaging material the global private label packaging market is segmented into:PlasticPolyethylenePolypropylenePolyamidePolystyrenePolyvinyl ChlorideOthersPaperMetalGlassPrivate Label Packaging: Regional overviewThe global market for private label packaging witnessed fast growth in last few years. Private label has the success high-purchase, commodity driven categories and also where the consumers perceive slight differentiation. Therefore, the value share of private label packaging in developed economies, such as North America, Europe and Australia is high compare to the other regions and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. Whereas, the Asia-Pacific market is expected to witness maximum growth rate in the global private label packaging market. The developing economy such as Asia Pacific except Japan, MEA and Latin America are having the opportunity for private label packaging market if the companies enters in the market with strong marketing of the product.Private Label Packaging: Key PlayersThe key player of private label packaging market are Urist Cosmetics Inc., Advanced Labels, LAUNCH Private Label, Dalden Corporation, Accurate Box Company Inc., ACP Worldwide, Jonco Industries, Inc., Econo-Pak, Ultra Seal, Unit Pack Co., Inc., Oratech, LLC, Proactive Packaging & Display, Central Package and Display, Heubach Corporation, Bernard Laboratories, Inc., MBK Tape Solutions, LBU, Inc., Action Pak, Inc., Contrapac, HOC Industries, American Towelette Co., etc.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Burkholderia Infections arket Growth and Forecast 2016-2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15479

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15479

www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Burkholderia cepacia is an aerobic gram-negative bacillus that can be found in soil and water. Burkholderia cepacia is an organism of low virulence and are often resistant to common antibiotics. Burkholderia cepacia is considered as a colonizing bacterium rather than infecting bacterium. Burkholderia cepacia is considered as less risky for healthy people, however, people with chronic lung diseases (asthma, CFTR and COPD) are at high risk for suffering from burkholderia cepacia infections.Request Sample Copy of the Report @Signs and symptoms of burkholderia cepacia infection can vary from person to person with no symptoms to serious respiratory medical conditions. Burkholderia cepacia infection can be transmitted through contaminated medical devices, person-to-person contact and contact with contaminated surfaces. Other possible complications caused due to burkholderia cepacia include soft-tissue infections, surgical-wound infections and genitourinary tract infections. Burkholderia cepacia may also cause catheter-related infections in patients with cancer.Burkholderia Infections Market: Trends and DynamicsThe prevalence of chronic lung diseases (asthma, CFTR and COPD) is increasing at a rapid pace across the world. Exact cause for asthma and cystic fibrosis is unknown, but the risk factors include hereditary conditions (passed from generation to generation) and environmental pollution (UV ray, chemical irritant). On the other hand, COPD is mostly caused due to cigarette smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), North America accounted for the highest number of asthma and COPD cases in the world in 2012.Likewise, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology estimated in 2012, that more than 100 million people would suffer from asthma across the world by 2025. According to the U.S Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Europe accounted for the largest prevalence of cystic fibrosis cases in 2012. Moreover, prevalence of asthma is observed more in case of children and geriatric population compared to adults. According to an article published by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, in 2012, nearly 10% children and 8% adults in the U.S. were diagnosed with asthma.Thus, growing pace of chronic lung diseases drives the global burkholderia cepacia infections treatment market. Moreover, technological advancement in diagnostic test further accentuates the global market demand of burkholderia cepacia infections treatment. There is no significant sign and symptom has been identified for infection with burkholderia cepacia. Thus, lack of awareness among people about burkholderia infections might restrict the global market demand of burkholderia cepacia infections treatment.Burkholderia Infections Market: Region-wise OutlookNorth America dominates the global market for burkholderia cepacia infections treatment due to strong demand of diagnostic test in this region. Moreover, increasing awareness among people and initiative taken by the federal government also accounted for the market growth in North American region. Europe represents the second position in the global burkholderia cepacia infections treatment market due to the presence of large geriatric population base in European region. Asia-Pacific is considered as an untapped market due to lack of proper healthcare facilities in some Asian countries.Asian market growth will be fuelled by the presence of untapped opportunities due to extensive increase in healthcare infrastructure (healthcare cost, healthcare facility and healthcare budget). Similarly, Asia-Pacific is considered as an emerging market due to growing market penetration in this region. Rest of the world (RoW) holds fourth position in the global burkholderia cepacia infections treatment market due to poor economic and health condition in most of the African countries.Burkholderia Infections Market: Key PlayersVarious key players contributing the global market share of burkholderia cepacia infections treatment market include Novabiotics Ltd, Aridis Pharmaceuticals LLC, NanoBio Corporation, iQur Ltd. among others.Request TOC of the Report @About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Vitamin D Testing Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Roche, Siemens, ThermoFisher, Mindray, Beckman Coulter, Biomeriux, Biorad Laboratories, SNIBE, IDS PLC and Others

Vitamin D Testing Market

https://goo.gl/WTHdAp

https://goo.gl/WTHdAp

https://goo.gl/WTHdAp

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Vitamin D Testing market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely oche, Siemens, ThermoFisher, Mindray, Beckman Coulter, Biomeriux, Biorad Laboratories, SNIBE, IDS PLC and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.The total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-VitD) level (the sum of 25-OH-vitamin D2 and 25-OH-vitamin D3) is the appropriate indicator of vitamin D body stores. Although there is no universal consensus about a treatment cut point, studies suggest 25 to 35 ng/mL as the minimal concentration of 25-OH-VitD needed to avoid the adverse effects of deficiency.2,3,4 By contrast, population reference ranges do not correspond with healthy ranges. In northern latitude locations in particular, one-third of the population may have vitamin D levels less than 25 ng/mL at the end of winter.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Vitamin D Testing Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:DiaSorinAbbottRocheSiemensThermoFisherMindrayBeckman CoulterBiomeriuxBiorad LaboratoriesSNIBEIDS PLCDIAsource ImmunoAssaysMaccuraTosoh BioscienceBeijing WantaiYHLOOtherGlobal Vitamin D Testing Market: Key Product TypeRIAELISACLIAPOCTLC-MS/MSOthersGlobal Vitamin D Testing Market: Key Application25(OH) Test1, 25(OH)TestOthersGlobal Vitamin D Testing Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Vitamin D Testing Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Vitamin D Testing Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Vitamin D Testing Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:Market Overview1.1 Vitamin D Testing Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 RIA1.2.2 ELISA1.2.3 CLIA1.2.4 POCT1.2.5 LC-MS/MS1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 25(OH) Test1.3.2 1, 25(OH)Test1.4 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).......................ContinueGlobal Vitamin D Testing Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Prostate cancer 2017  Globally Market Size, Analysis, Share, Research, Growth

Prostate cancer

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1580

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/prostate-cancer-market

Market Research Future.com add new report of Prostate cancer Market Research Report  Global Forecast To 2027 it contains Company information, geographical data and Table of ContentStudy Objectives of Prostate cancer Market: To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 10 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Prostate cancer market To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth To analyze the prostate cancer market based on various factors- price analysis, supply chain analysis, porters five force analysis etc. To provide historical and forecast revenue of the market segments and sub-segments with respect to four main geographies and their countries- Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. 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 segments by type, by application, by end users and its sub-segments. To provide overview of key players and their strategic profiling 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 Prostate cancer market.Intended Audience: Companies related to Prostate cancer Government research Laboratories Research and Development (R&D) Companies Independent Research Laboratories Market Research and Consulting Service Providers Medical Research LaboratoriesKey Players for Prostate cancer market: OncoGenex Pharmaceuticals Inc. (US) Bayer Pharma AG (Berlin) Progenics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (US) TOLMAR Inc. (US) OncBioMune Pharmaceuticals Inc. (US) Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc. Tokai Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Request a Sample Report @Market Synopsis of Prostate cancer market:Market Scenario:Prostate cancer is cancer which occurs in a man's prostate. It is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men. This type of cancer usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland where it may not cause serious harm. Some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly. This market needs novel drugs that will address the unmet needs low cost and improved survival time.Market for Prostate cancer is growing due to an increase in prostate cancer population. The global market for Prostate cancer is expected to reach US$ XX by the end of the forecasted period and is expected to grow at a CAGR of XX%Segments:Global Prostate cancer market has been segmented on the basis of product type; market is segmented into targeted therapies, therapeutic vaccines, hormone therapy and others. On the basis of end users; market is segmented into hospitals, clinics and others.Regional Analysis of Prostate cancer Market:Globally North America is the largest market for cervical dystonia. The North American market for Prostate cancer is expected to grow at a CAGR of XX% and is expected to reach at US$ XXX Million by the end of the forecasted period. This is increasing as there is continuous input for innovative drugs to cure the diseases.Europe is expected to be the second-largest market for Prostate cancer which is expected to grow at a CAGR of XX%.The report for Global Prostate Cancer 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 markets segments and regionsTABLE OF CONTENTS1 INTRODUCTION2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY3 MARKET DYNAMICS4 MARKET FACTOR ANALYSIS5 GLOBAL PROSTATE CANCER MARKET, BY TREATMENT6 GLOBAL PROSTATE CANCER MARKET, BY END USERS7 GLOBAL PROSTATE CANCER MARKET, BY REGION8 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE9 COMPANY PROFILE10 CONCLUSION11 APPENDIXBrowse Full Report Details@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. Contact: Akash Anand, Market Research Future +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Pune, India
Engineering Plastic Global Market 2017: Key Players  Covestro, Solvay S. A, Celanese Corporation, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, LG Chem Ltd.

Engineering Plastic Market

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2161

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/engineering-plastic-market-2161

Engineering Plastic Market 2017MarketResearchFuture adds Engineering Plastic Market 2017: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, Forecast to 2022reports to its Database.Key PlayersThe key players of Engineering Plastic market are BASF SE (Germany)Covestro (Germany)Solvay S. A. (Belgium)Celanese Corporation (U.S.)I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (U.S.)LG Chem Ltd. (South Korea)Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Saudi Arabia)Evonik Industries AG (Germany)Lanxess AG (Germany)Mitsubishi Engineering-Plastics Corporation (Japan)Market ScenarioEngineering plastics are group of plastic material which has better mechanical and thermal properties. The group of plastic such as polystyrene, PVC, polypropylene and polyethylene are used as engineering plastic. These materials have special properties such as higher impact strength, high abrasion, wear and fatigue resistance. Engineering plastic are manufactured for special applications due to which they are expensive.On the basis of product, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is dominating the engineering plastic market since they it largely consumed due to its various properties such as high impact, mechanical potency, and high temperature resistance. Acrylonitrile provides chemical resistance, heat stability and ease of processing. Butadiene provides strength and toughness. On the basis of application, automotive segment has the largest market share in the engineering plastic market. They are mostly used in automotive & transportation industry as connectors, wheel well lighting component such as headlamp, fog lamps, among others. Asia-Pacific is expected to account for the largest market share for the forecast period.Study Objectives of engineering plastic MarketTo provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 5 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Engineering plastic MarketTo provide insights about factors affecting the market growthTo Analyse the Global Engineering plastic Market based on various factors such as supply chain analysis, and Porters five force analysisTo provide historical and forecast revenue of the market segments and sub-segments with respect to regions and their respective key countriesTo provide country level analysis of the market with respect to the current market size and future prospectiveTo provide country level analysis of the market for segments by product, by application and by region.To provide strategic profiling of key players in the market, comprehensively analysing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the marketTo track and analyse competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and developments in the Global Engineering plastic Market.Request For Sample Report @Regional Analysis of engineering plastic MarketThe engineering plastic market can be geographically segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and Rest of the World (ROW). Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate the global engineering plastic market due to highest demand in the region. Rapid industrialization, growing demand by industries such as chemicals, power generation, automobile, and packaging, has led to the growing demand for engineering plastic.Intended AudienceEngineering Plastic manufacturersDistributer & Supplier companiesEnd Usersconsultants and Investment bankersGovernment as well as Independent Regulatory AuthoritiesProduct AnalysisProduct matrix which gives a detailed comparison of the market for different recycled product typesAdditional InformationRegulatory LandscapePricing AnalysisMacroeconomic IndicatorsGeographic AnalysisGeographical analysis across 15 countriesCompany InformationProfiling of 10 key market playersIn-depth analysis including SWOT analysis, and strategy information of related to report titleCompetitive landscape including emerging trends adopted by major companiesThe report for engineering plastic Market of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.Complete Report Details @Table of Contents1 Executive Summary2 Research Methodology2.1 Scope of the Study2.1.1 Definition2.1.2 Research Objective2.1.3 Assumptions2.1.4 Limitations2.2 Research Process2.2.1 Primary Research2.2.2 Secondary Research2.3 Market size Estimation2.4 Forecast Model.Company ProfilesContinued.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 Solutions, Application, Logistics and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.CONTACT US:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Tamper-evident Adhesives Market trends estimates high demand by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15227

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15227

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Technological advancement coupled with feasibility in packaging protection has changed the scenario of the packaging industry over the course of time. Since time immemorial, manufacturers and producers are coming up with different solutions to enhance and protect their products from any unauthorized access, which in turn makes consumers not only meet their needs but also surpass their expectations. Tamper- evident adhesives are one of the evolving technology in adhesives, which offers cost-effective and innovative packaging solutions for specific applications such as pharmaceutical packaging. From the security point of view, tamper evident is the best solution to the packaging industry as it help deter theft while providing convenient asset-tracking abilities for more efficient asset application. Both of these benefits produce real cost savings for industries. This multi- million dollar industry is growing at a fast speed in order to meet consumers demand. For instance, some pharmaceutical manufacturers are focusing in product innovating and adding up more technologies into tamper-evident adhesives in order to improve the security of pharma box packs. By which, the adhesive will leave a clear visible evidence of tampering.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Tamper-evident Adhesives Market: Drivers and RestraintsConstant advancement in the pharmaceutical packaging market has experienced a double digit growth, which in turn has led the growth of tamperevident adhesives market as it deliver a product protection and security needs. Furthermore, the repetitive cases of counterfeiting from the past few years in the pharmaceutical industry is fuelling the tamper-evident adhesives market. For instance, according to WHO, almost 10% of medicines are counterfeit across the globe, which has become a major concern for the food and drug manufacturers.Additionally, some features that is unacceptable for tamper evident adhesives are the type of materials which are being used in adhesives, such as polystyrene, cellulose and thermal plastics do not offer adequate evidence of tampering on the product, which in turn can be a major challenge to the tamper evident adhesives manufacturers.Tamper-evident Adhesives Market: SegmentationThe global tamper evident adhesives is differentiated on the basis of application, adhesives types and technology, that isTamper-evident adhesives by application:Spare partsLuxury goodsPharmaceutical productsWines and spiritsChemical drumsOthersTamper-evident adhesives by adhesive types:Permanent adhesivesRemovable adhesivesRepositionable adhesivesCold temperature adhesivesTamper-evident adhesives by technologyWater basedSolvent basedHot-meltReactiveOthersTamper-evident Adhesives Market: Regional LandscapeOn the basis of region, tamper-evident adhesives finds its market possibility in North America, Latin America, Middle East & Africa, Europe and Asia-Pacific. North America and Europe dominates the tamper-evident adhesives, however, Asia Pacific is expected to be the most promising region in terms of incremental prospects lying ahead for generating high revenue. Latin America and Middle East & Africa are on the trail. Tamper-evident adhesives market is highly regulated in North America and Europe. India and China are the key promising countries driving the tamper-evident adhesives market in Asia-Pacific.Tamper-evident Adhesives Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players of the global tamper-evident adhesives market are 3M Company, Dupont, KRUSE ADHESIVE TAPE, tesa UK Ltd., Avery Dennison, Nordson Corporation, IRPLAST S.p.A., protectaseal ltd, Stickythings Limited., Palmetto Adhesives, Horizons, Inc and DUNMORE.Going through these points, there is no doubt that tamper evident adhesives market hold good footprint in market in the near future, henceforth, is expected to grow at impressive CAGR during the forecast period, 20162024.Request TOC of the Report@The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, types and applications.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeValue Chain AnalysisCurrent Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedOverview of personal care marketRegional analysis includesNorth America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)Latin America (Brazil, Mexico)Western Europe (Germany, Italy, France, U.K, Spain)Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia)Asia Pacific (China, India, ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand)JapanMiddle East and Africa (GCC, S. Africa, N. Africa)About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our 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:
Flip-Top Packaging Market to increase rapidly by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15257

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15257

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Closures/Caps add to an essential part in the packaging industry. Whether its twisting the cap, or a screw top, closures form the doorway to product experience. With the changing consumer lifestyles and preferences and technological advancement, the packaging industry continuously upgrades its packaging trends in terms of closures/capping. Keeping in mind the re-usability factor, packaging industry has been developing flip-top closures also known as snap on closures for product packaging. Flip-top packaging are convenient as compared to convention sealed caps owing to its re-usability, easy-to-use and multi-use characteristics. Flip-top packaging is prominently used in food and beverage industry. Its convenient features have resulted in the wide adoption by other industries including pharmaceuticals, health and personal care, automotive and other consumer goods. Flip-top packaging market is expected to grow during the forecast period attributed to its convenient features that extends shelf life of the product.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Flip-Top Packaging Market: Market DynamicsFlip-top packaging market is witnessing a growing demand in order to cater to changing consumer requirements for reclosing fasteners. The increasing demand for portability by the workforce who are constantly on a move has driven the flip-top packaging market. Flip-top packaging method is especially suited for liquid products that help in pouring the liquids as and when needed. Flip-top packaging market has gained an increased adoption across industries for its easy to use features. The flip-top packaging market adds value to beverage industry which has driven the manufacturers to widely adopt this packaging method for liquid product packaging.Flip-top packaging market opportunities in the food industry is expected to benefit from the industrys demand for easy to open closure types especially for food items such as ketchups, jellies and jams. Boosted by the convenience, flip-top packaging market is expected to witness a continuous growth across industries.Flip-Top Packaging Market: Market SegmentationFlip-top packaging market can be segmented on the basis of application, which include:Food & BeverageJams and JelliesKetchupsJuicesWaterSodaHealth DrinkOthersDairy ProductsMilkPharmaceuticalsSyrupsTabletsHealth & HygieneShampooLotionsCreamsOilOthersAutomotiveOther Consumer GoodsFlip-top packaging market can be segmented on the basis of raw material, which include:LDPELLDPEPPPVCOthersFlip-top packaging can be segmented on the basis of application including food and beverage industry which includes flip-top packaging for products categories like jellies and jams, ketchups, juices, water, health drinks, soda and others, dairy products such as milk bottles, pharmaceuticals wherein, flip-top packaging is used for syrups and small sized tablets, health and hygiene products which includes a wide range of products such as creams, lotions, oil, shampoo. It is also widely applied in the automotive industry for products like diesel, engine oil and others. Flip-top packaging method includes plastic caps that can be segmented on the basis of plastic materials such as LDPE, LLDPE, PP, PVC and others.Flip-Top Packaging Market: Regional OutlookRegional coverage for flip-top packaging include North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and China (APAC) and Middle East and Africa (MEA). APAC is expected to witness a rapid growth in the flip-top packaging market owing to the presence and continuous development in food and beverage industries. Developing countries such as India and China are expected to have a robust demand for flip-top packaging market. MEA is expected to grow significantly in terms of global flip-top packaging market. Matured markets such as North America, Europe and Latin America are expected to contribute moderately to flip-top packaging market.Flip-Top Packaging Market: Market PlayersThe market players in flip-top packaging include Amcor Limited, Bericap Holding GmBH, Berry Plastics Corporation, Crown Holdings Inc., Nampak Limited, Hangzhou Xinye Bottle Cap Company Ltd., Shanghai Zijiang Enterprise Group Company td., Tetra Pak and others.Request TOC of the Report@The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.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. 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.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Plastic Meal Tray Market : Analysis and Forecast by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15260

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15260

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Today increasing number of restraints, convenience stores, food suppliers, caterers and other food suppliers including online food delivery services find advantages when they switch from traditional paperboard, Styrofoam and aluminum material trays to plastic trays. Few major cities in USA has already banned the use of Styrofoam because of their disposable problem and it is very difficult to recycle them. Many food industry players are searching for alternative for Styrofoam packaging. Plastic meal trays are the solution for them. These kind of plastic meal tray also allows vacuum and gas packaging. It is now becoming a widely excepted product because of its benefits such as easy to seal and it allows vacuum and gas packaging.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Due to socio-economic advancement all over the world and changing lifestyle, ready and packed meals has become a widespread solution for modern people. This is acting as one the important driver for plastic meal tray market. Demand for readily available fresh food, frozen food, dry fruits etc. is also driving plastic meal tray market. Attractive visual appearance and convenience to use are additional aspects which are expected to drive the plastic meal tray market. Moreover because of its environmental benefits recyclable plastic meal trays it is being used in college, schools and office canteens extensively. The plastic meal tray market is driven by the trend of shifting interest of consumers towards processed and specialty food. High raw material cost in less developed countries can act as restraint for this plastic meal tray market.Introduction of more eco-friendly tray material like sugar cane or bagasse trays may act a threat to this plastic meal tray market.Based on the type of plastic used the plastic meal tray market is segmented into:PolypropyleneCPETOthers (RePET, HIPS, HDPE and APET)Based on the application the plastic meal tray market is segmented into:Cold and Frozen foodPrepared foods (hot) and ready to eat mealsKosher mealsIn terms of geography, the plastic meal tray market has been divided in to five key regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa. The plastic meal tray market is expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. North America is anticipated to be the dominant market for plastic meal tray market followed by Asia Pacific and Europe. The market in Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at highest CAGR over the forecast period. Countries with more population like China, India, USA etc. are likely to provide abundant opportunities for the growth of the plastic meal tray market.Some of the key players in the plastic meal tray market are Food Packaging (GREENDALE), Sonoco Products, Pactiv LLC, Cambro etc.Request TOC of the Report@The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections done using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to categories such as market segments, geographies, type, machine size and end use.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyValue ChainRegional analysis includesNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East and AfricaAbout 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 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:
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 ACICO, Masa Group, Eastland, Biltech, AKG Gazbeton, Ultratech, Hansa Baustoffwerke, J K Lakshmi Cement, DOMAPOR and Others

Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market

https://goo.gl/zbVi5R

https://goo.gl/zbVi5R

https://goo.gl/zbVi5R

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely ACICO, Masa Group, Eastland, Biltech, AKG Gazbeton, Ultratech, Hansa Baustoffwerke, J K Lakshmi Cement, DOMAPOR and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Aerated Concrete is a type of precast concrete composed of all natural raw materials producing great benefits and better energy efficient performance. As early as 1914, the Swedes discovered a mixture of cement, lime, water and sand, just like regular concrete but adding aluminum powder. This last material gives the Autoclaved Aerated Precast Concrete expansion properties.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:Xella GroupAercon AACH+H International A/SACICOMasa GroupEastlandBiltechAKG GazbetonUltratechHansa BaustoffwerkeJ K Lakshmi CementDOMAPOREco GreenSchlamann KGDongying City FranshionYABALANG BuildingOtherGlobal Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market: Key Product TypeBlocksLintelsPanelsOthersGlobal Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market: Key ApplicationIndustrialCommercialResidentialOthersGlobal Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Blocks1.2.2 Lintels1.2.3 Panels1.2.4 Others1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Industrial1.3.2 Commercial1.3.3 Residential1.3.4 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).......................ContinueGlobal Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Single Port Surgical Platform Market Intelligence with Competitive Landscape 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15263

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15263

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Single port surgical platform (SPSP) is a minimal invasive laparoscopy technique in which, a single incision is made on the body through single trocar which have multiple ports or single skin incision site with multiple facial incisions that have an individual trocar, are used to conduct the surgery. Single port surgical platforms are also called Single Port Access Surgery (SPA), Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS), and Laparo-endoscopic Single-Site Surgery (LESS). Normally, in abdominal surgeries, large incisions are made to conduct the surgery. Although, they are effective but they usually cause postoperative pain, wound infections, and prolonged hospitalization. Current rate of incisional hernia is 4-18% and wound infections are 2-25% in the U.S whereas, in case of conventional laparoscopic surgeries, multiple incisions are made on the body to conduct the surgery. To overcome the above challenges, companies are focusing on developing the novel single-port surgical platform, which creates single incision on the body. This surgical platform also helps in speedy recovery, small incisions, and are less prone to infections and pain conditions. In addition to these, it does not leave any scars on the body after the surgery.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The market is driven mainly by factors such as technological innovations, increase in adoption of SPSP, growing preference towards minimally invasive surgery process, and exploration of their utility in other applications Ex: General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Urology, Gynecology and Bariatric Surgery. Increasing preference towards scar-less slimming surgeries is a major factor responsible for boosting the market growth. This platform allows surgeons to conduct surgeries in the abdominal cavity by accessing through small holes. Furthermore, SPSP reduces treatment costs by reducing hospital stay of the patients. Hence, patients and surgeons are prefer SPSP as compared to others. The major constraints of this market are high cost, lack of skilled professionals, and triangulation problems. The single port surgical platform (SPSP) is segmented based on its application and technology.Segmentation by ApplicationGeneral SurgeryGastroenterologyUrologicalGynecologicalBariatricSegmentation by TechnologyRobot/ Remote controlled AssistedManual  AssistedNew products are being launched into the market to alleviate the disadvantages of the current SPSP platforms. SPSP is a lucrative segment in the laparoscopic surgeries, due to its technical aspects and patient benefits. On the basis of application, SPSP is mainly used in Bariatric surgeries. However, they are gaining traction of the other application areas such as gynecology, urology, gastroenterology, and general surgery due to its advantages.On the basis of its technology, the manual assisted SPSP holds major market share as compared to robot-assisted. In future, robot/ remote controlled technology is expected to dominate the market because surgeons can perform the complex surgeries in a more accurate and flexible way than the conventional surgery process by using the robot/ remote controlled technologyRecently, Intuitive surgical, a U.S.-based company, received FDA approval for its da Vinci Sp single port robot-assisted surgical system.SPSP is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa. North America is holds a major market share on the basis of application of the SPSP owing to factors such as spending power of the people and introduction of new technologies into the market. Asia-Pacific markets are growing relatively fast due to cost effective surgeries and advancements in healthcare infrastructure.Request TOC of the Report@Key players in this market are Covidien, Applied Medical, Ethicon, Olympus Gyrus-ACMI, Novare Surgical, Cambridge Endo, Karl Storz, Intutive surgical, Fortmedix Surgical, and Trans Enterix. The market is relatively dominated by major players however, new players are trying to hold a major part of the market share by developing innovative products.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Single Port Surgical Platform Market SegmentsSingle Port Surgical Platform Market DynamicsHistorical Actual Market Size, 2013 - 2015Single Port Surgical Platform Market Size & Forecast 2016 to 2024Single Port Surgical Platform Market Current Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedSingle Port Surgical Platform Market Drivers and RestraintsRegional analysis includesNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East & AfricaAbout 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 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:
Brown Sugar Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Imperial Sugar, Nordic Sugar A/S, C&H Sugar, American Crystal Sugar, Cargill, Domino Sugar, Taikoo, Wholesome Sweeteners and Others

Brown Sugar Market

https://goo.gl/Uee2W3

https://goo.gl/Uee2W3

https://goo.gl/Uee2W3

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Brown Sugar market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Imperial Sugar, Nordic Sugar A/S, C&H Sugar, American Crystal Sugar, Cargill, Domino Sugar, Taikoo, Wholesome Sweeteners and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Sugar is just sucrose (C12H22O11), a molecule which occurs naturally in a variety of plants. Brown sugar is a colored refined sugar obtained when controlled amount of molasses are added to the white sugar. The intensity of the color of brown sugar is proportional to the amount of molasses added. Brown sugar has a distinctive taste and flavor due to the presence of minerals which also make it nutritionally superior to white sugar. This property of the brown sugar resulted in the formation of an alternative sugar market for health cautious population.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Brown Sugar Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:SudzuckerTate & LyleImperial SugarNordic Sugar A/SC&H SugarAmerican Crystal SugarCargillDomino SugarTaikooWholesome SweetenersGanzhiyuanLotus Health GroupOtherGlobal Brown Sugar Market: Key Product TypeLight Brown SugarDark Brown SugarOthersGlobal Brown Sugar Market: Key ApplicationBakeryBeveragesConfectioneryIce Cream and DairyOthersGlobal Brown Sugar Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Brown Sugar Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Brown Sugar Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Brown Sugar Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Brown Sugar Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Light Brown Sugar1.2.2 Dark Brown Sugar1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Bakery1.3.2 Beverages1.3.3 Confectionery1.3.4 Ice Cream and Dairy1.3.5 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).......................ContinueGlobal Brown Sugar Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Moulded Fiber/ Pulp Packaging Market to Record Study Growth by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15308

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15308

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

The need for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging has led to the development of moulded fiber packaging material. Moulded fiber material is made from recycled material such as newsprint or paperboard. On the basis of moulds used during manufacturing process, thickness of packaging and application, moulded fiber/ pulp packaging can be classified into four types which are transfer moulded, thick wall, processed and thermoformed. Transfer moulded type is used to in electronic consumer products packaging and egg trays and cartons. Thick wall type is used in packaging of heavy and non-fragile items. Processed type are customised moulded fiber/ pulp with special additives or slurry ingredients. In May 2016, HUHTAMAKI GROUP, a Finland based company expanded its production facility in Ivanteevka, Russia. The expansion included new production unit, warehouse and improvement of infrastructure. With this expansion, the company claims to meet the increasing demand for packaging in growing egg market in the region. Carlsberg, a Denmark based brewing company has entered into partnership with ecoXpac A/S, a Denmark based packaging product manufacturer to develop eco-friendly, biodegradable moulded fiber/ pulp based bottles.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Moulded Fiber/ Pulp Packaging Market: Drivers and RestraintsMoulded fiber/ pulp packaging is cost saving alternative as compared to other packaging types, which is the major driver for the growth of global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market. The other advantages of this packaging type is that it is more durable under humid and high temperature conditions. The vibration absorption capability of moulded fiber/ pulp packaging is also better as compared to other packaging types. The ease of handling moulded fiber/ pulp packed product and environment friendly material has led to its use as plastic alternative, which is anticipated to boost the growth of global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market. Stringent regulations and the increasing emphasis for sustainable development by food and beverage and consumer product manufacturers is anticipated to drive the growth of global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market.Moulded Fiber/ Pulp Packaging Market: SegmentationOn the basis of product type, the global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market can be segmented as follows:-Transfer MouldedThick WallProcessedThermoformed/ Thin WallOn the basis of packaging type, the global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market can be segmented as follows:-TraysEdge Protectors/ End CapsClamshellsRoll CradlesOn the basis of end use sector, the global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market can be segmented as follows:-Beverage IndustryRetail and Consumer Products IndustryMoulded Fiber/ Pulp Packaging Market: Region Wise OutlookThe global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market can be divided into five regions, namely North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA). APAC accounts for major share in moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market owing to the rise in demand for recyclable plastic alternatives for packaging. The growth of e-commerce retail sales also contributes to the growth of moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market in the region. APAC is followed by North America in terms of market share in global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market. This is attributed to the well-established food processing industry in the region and increasing sales through modern trade stores and packed food items. Europe moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market is expected to register high CAGR over the forecast period due to increasing sustainable packaging industry in the region.Moulded Fiber/ Pulp Packaging Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players in the global moulded fiber/ pulp packaging market are as follows:HUHTAMAKI GROUPUFP Technologies, Inc.Henry Molded Products Inc.The Haddy CompaniesMoulded Fibre Products Ltd.KEIDING INC.Brodrene Hartmann A/SEnviroPAKBerkley InternationalHeracles Packaging Co. S.A.Footprint, LLCRequest TOC of the Report@The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geography, technology and applications.The report covers exhaustive analysis on:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyValue ChainRegional analysis includesNorth America (U.S., Canada)Latin America (Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Rest of Latin America)Europe (EU-5 countries, Nordic countries, BENELUX, Russia, Poland, Rest of Europe)APAC (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand)MEA (GCC Countries, S. Africa, N. Africa, Rest of MEA)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 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:
Temperature Probe Market trends estimates high demand by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15314

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15314

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Temperature probes are used to measure the amount of coldness and heat energy, generated by a system. These sensors help in detecting physical change to the temperature producing digital output. Furthermore, temperature sensors are mainly used in sectors including healthcare, food & beverage, automotive and consumer electronics, defense industry.Temperature sensors are used in various industrial applications, which need process control with high accuracy. These probes are mainly used for sensitive processes, which need controlled process environments for example in chemical mixing, monitoring. Industrial processes which frequently requires to test and measure equipments temperature and volume, also use temperature probes on large scale. For example, clinical research processes have highly controlled manufacturing environments.Request Sample Copy of the Report@These probes play important role in manufacturing, handling, storing of medical equipment and drugs, as they maintain basic overall performance by monitoring temperature. The current developments in healthcare sensing probes are responsible for increase in the trend of continuous patient monitoring. As a result it can reduce overall healthcare costs and help to improve treatment outcomes. These medical sensors are capable of monitoring of vital signs, for example patients temperature and blood pressure that are directly recorded in the electronic format. It also reduces sloppy management of patient records and providing the user with the latest information. Currently consumer healthcare is amongst the major fields which holds a promising future for sensors with a fastest growth rate than all other applications.The escalating burden of chronic disorders as well as, the worldwide, surging population count has consequently propelled the demand for these equipments. Chronically ill patients and the large elderly population subset form the target population for the sensor-based devices as it is imperative for them to undergo routine checkups; thus, facilitating remote and point-of-care patient monitoring.Besides this, increased adoption rate of surveillance and checkup devices are further driving the temperature sensors market. In addition, factors such as strict government guidelines to ensure environmental safety and ongoing demand for electronic products and computing peripherals have kept the prospects of the market high.The raw material used for manufacturing plays a crucial role in sensor efficiency and durability. Use of new raw materials such as lithium-niobate and langasite has increased the measurement ranges of temperature sensors. However, silicon based sensors are primarily used owing to their availability and low cost as they are produced in bulk. Multisensors are increasingly used for mass applications owing to their stability which, is expected to drive overall temperature sensors market growth.Technical developments and advent of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) are likely to create greater opportunities.The home healthcare category such as pregnancy kits and glucose monitoring kits is anticipated to witness lucrative growth over the years. The cost of diagnosis in hospitals and other healthcare units is high; hence, the preference of home healthcare equipments, such as diagnostic kits, over hospitals is observed to be rising. The high-unmet needs of the huge target population are expected to further open avenues for the market players in the industry.However, dominance of legacy technologies and awareness of end-users have hampered the market growth. Quality, accuracy of temperature probes and raw material used for manufacturing has hampered the market.The Global Market of Temperature Probe is segmented on basis of product type, application, end user, and geography. The market by product type includes fiber optic, temperature sensors IC, bimetallic, resistance temperature detector, IR temperature sensor, thermistor, and thermocouple. Based on applications, the market is segmented as surgical, diagnostic, therapeutic and monitoring. The end user of temperature probes include hospitals, physician offices, nursing homes, home healthcare facilities and others.Geographically, the market is segmented into six major regions: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Rest of the World (RoW). In terms of geography, North America followed by Europe account for the largest market share for because of availability of sophisticated primary, secondary, and tertiary-care healthcare settings supported the market. Moreover, the well-established reimbursement network, suitable government funding, and the increasing health awareness further facilitates the incorporation of the sensors in the medical devices.The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness a remunerative growth over the next few years. This can be attributed to the heightened number of individuals suffering from chronic disorders, such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory problems.The key market players active in the temperature sensor market are Analog Devices Inc., Maxim Integrated, Measurement Specialties Inc., Microchip Technology Inc., Honeywell International Inc., NXP Semiconductors, STMicroelectronics, Panasonic Corporation, Texas Instruments and Siemens AG.Request TOC of the Report@The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.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. 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.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Butyl Rubber Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Lanxess, PJSC NizhneKamskneftekhim, JSR, Sibur, Sinopec Beijing Yanshan, Zhejiang Cenway Synthetic New Material/ Panjin Heyun Group and Others

Butyl Rubber Market

https://goo.gl/JNF5eP

https://goo.gl/JNF5eP

https://goo.gl/JNF5eP

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Butyl Rubber market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Lanxess, PJSC NizhneKamskneftekhim, JSR, Sibur, Sinopec Beijing Yanshan, Zhejiang Cenway Synthetic New Material/ Panjin Heyun Group and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Butyl rubber is a synthetic rubber, a copolymer of isobutylene with isoprene. The abbreviation IIR stands for Isobutylene Isoprene Rubber. The primary properties of butyl rubber are excellent air-barrier performance, good flex fatigue and vibration damping. From inner tubes to curing bladders, butyl properties are valued across a range of rubber products.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Butyl Rubber Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:ExxonMobilLanxessPJSC NizhneKamskneftekhimJSRSiburSinopec Beijing YanshanZhejiang Cenway Synthetic New MaterialPanjin Heyun GroupFormosa Synthetic Rubber (Ningbo)OtherGlobal Butyl Rubber Market: Key Product TypeRegular Butyl RubberChlorinated Butyl RubberBrominated Butyl RubberOthersGlobal Butyl Rubber Market: Key ApplicationTireMedical MaterialsOthersGlobal Butyl Rubber Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Butyl Rubber Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Butyl Rubber Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Butyl Rubber Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Butyl Rubber Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Regular Butyl Rubber1.2.2 Chlorinated Butyl Rubber1.2.3 Brominated Butyl Rubber1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Tire1.3.2 Medical Materials1.3.3 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).......................ContinueGlobal Butyl Rubber Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Ingestible Sensors Market to increase rapidly by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15323

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15323

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Ingestible sensors is an innovative technologically advanced product of digital medical industry. Ingestible Sensors are pills that have the ability to detect various bodily functions and activities, medication check, heart rate and blood pressure. It has three components sensors, data recorder, and software. These ingestible sensors help patients receive real-time information and address the unaware issues which are sometimes not answered by doctors. The ingestible sensor works as soon as the sensor enabled pill is consumed. This pill sends signals to the patch, which helps to detect the duration in which the pill was consumed. As the data is recorded, the information is being displayed with the help of linked discover application that can be downloaded on a mobile device. With the help of this application patients can analyze the data and work accordingly, this helps them to decide if there is any need to visit a healthcare provider, taking medication on time and others. The ingestible sensors market is driven by increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and advancement in technology.Request Sample Copy of the Report@According to the Centers for Disease and Control of Infection, there are more than one-third (36.5%) of U.S. adults that suffer from obesity. Obesity-related conditions comprise of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain types of cancer, and some of these are leading causes of preventable death. IN U.S., the incidence rate of chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, arthritis and others are among the most common of all health problems. In 2012, 117 Mn people suffered from one or more chronic health conditions. Moreover due to benefits such as cost-effective products, growing population of immune compromised individuals and others, the physician is prescribing these products. The patient education program is conducted by government and companies for creating the awareness among the general population. However Ingestible sensors market has some restraints such as low adoption for these products may hinder the growth of the Ingestible sensors market.The Global Ingestible sensors market is segmented on the basis of sensor type, application, end user and regional presence:Segmentation based on Sensor Type:Temperature sensorPressure sensorpH sensorImage sensorSegmentation based on ApplicationMedical/HealthcareSports & fitnessOthersSegmentation based on end userResearch InstitutesPharmaceutical companiesHealthcare providersSports & Physical Fitness institutionsIncreasing sedentary lifestyle among population leading to rising in the incidence of chronic conditions is expected to boost the Ingestible sensors market over the forecast period. Also rising awareness among the general population and rise in disposable income is expected to drive the Ingestible sensors market during the forecast period.Geographically the Ingestible sensors market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and MEA region.North America followed by Europe is dominating the Ingestible sensors market as a high incidence of gastroparesis cases, and favorable reimbursement options provided by governments and insurance companies which have provided the platform for these products. In Asia Pacific region the Ingestible sensors market is expected to deliver significant growth due to the high pool of geriatric population in this region and growing economy which is expected to further fuel market demand. Moreover, the Ingestible sensors market is expected to become highly competitive due to the potential entrants in the market by the end of forecast period.Request TOC of the Report@Some of the major companies in the Ingestible sensors market are HQ, Inc., Proteus Digital Health, Inc., CapsoVision, Inc., Given Imaging, Ltd., Medimetrics Personalized Drug Delivery B.V., Olympus Corporation, and others. Key strategy used by Proteus Digital Health, Inc is utilizing innovative approach for improving health outcomes for patients and for patients that are facing challenges managing their medications.Ingestible Sensors Market SegmentsIngestible Sensors Market DynamicsHistorical Actual Market Size, 2013 - 2015Ingestible Sensors Market Size & Forecast 2016 to 2024Ingestible Sensors Market Current Trends/Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedIngestible sensors market Drivers and RestraintsRegional analysis includesNorth AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificThe Middle East & AfricaAbout 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 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:
Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Methode Electronics, CFC Carbon, Kunshan JianTong, IR Technika, O-Yate, Yukang Hongkang and Others

Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market

https://goo.gl/SjEccL

https://goo.gl/SjEccL

https://goo.gl/SjEccL

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Methode Electronics, CFC Carbon, Kunshan JianTong, IR Technika, O-Yate, Yukang Hongkang and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.A wide variety of industrial applications require heating solutions that are reliable as well as efficient. Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element are ideal for providing such accommodative heating and immense thermal recovery. They can conform to suit the surface that is to be heated and hence they are versatile in nature.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:SGL GroupFlexelMethode ElectronicsCFC CarbonKunshan JianTongIR TechnikaO-YateYukangHongkangGuoqiangCheung HingGMEOtherGlobal Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market: Key Product TypeCarbon Fiber Composite Heating TubeCarbon Fiber Composite Heating PlateCarbon Fiber Composite Heating WireOther Carbon Fiber Composite Heating ElementGlobal Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market: Key ApplicationIndustrial ApplicationCommercial ApplicationHousehold ApplicationOthersGlobal Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Tube1.2.2 Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Plate1.2.3 Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Wire1.2.4 Other Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Industrial Application1.3.2 Commercial Application1.3.3 Household Application1.4 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).......................ContinueGlobal Carbon Fiber Composite Heating Element Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Tianjin Yuanlong Chemical, AkzoNobel, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Tosoh, Ineos Chlor, Asahi Glass, Tokuyama Corp and Others

Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market

https://goo.gl/RDSYni

https://goo.gl/RDSYni

https://goo.gl/RDSYni

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Caustic Soda Prills 99% market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Tianjin Yuanlong Chemical, AkzoNobel, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Tosoh, Ineos Chlor, Asahi Glass, Tokuyama Corp and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.This report studies the Caustic Soda Prills 99% market. Caustic Soda prills are solid small fused white pearls, color- and odorless and very hygroscopic. It is very soluble in water and dissolves very rapidly to caustic soda solution liberating a lot of heat; in methanol and ethanol it is well soluble. Caustic Soda prills and caustic soda solutions thereof are very corrosive to many materials and have to be handled with great care.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:SolvayBefar GroupTianjin Yuanlong ChemicalAkzoNobelFormosa Plastics CorporationTosohIneos ChlorAsahi GlassTokuyama CorpTianjin Chengyuan ChemicalArabian Alkali Company SODAJSC KaustikGaclOtherGlobal Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market: Key Product TypeCaustic Soda MicroprillsCaustic Soda PearlOthersGlobal Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market: Key ApplicationPulp & PaperAluminum MetalChemical and Petroleum ProductsSoaps and DetergentsOthersGlobal Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Caustic Soda Prills 99% Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Caustic Soda Microprills1.2.2 Caustic Soda Pearl1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Pulp & Paper1.3.2 Aluminum Metal1.3.3 Chemical and Petroleum Products1.3.4 Soaps and Detergents1.3.5 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).......................ContinueGlobal Caustic Soda Prills 99% Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Discrete Power Device Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Mitsubishi Electric Corp, Toshiba, STMicroelectronics, Vishay Intertechnology, Fuji Electric, Renesas Electronics, ROHM Semiconductor, Nexperia and Others

Discrete Power Device Market

https://goo.gl/1W8DVr

https://goo.gl/1W8DVr

https://goo.gl/1W8DVr

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Discrete Power Device market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Mitsubishi Electric Corp, Toshiba, STMicroelectronics, Vishay Intertechnology, Fuji Electric, Renesas Electronics, ROHM Semiconductor, Nexperia and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.A discrete power device(or discrete component) is an electronic component with just one circuit element, either passive (resistor, capacitor, inductor, diode) or active (transistor or vacuum tube), other than an integrated circuit. It is an electronic component widely used in automotive & transportation, industrial, consumer, communication and among others. In this report, the transistor, diodes and tryristors are counted.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Discrete Power Device Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:Infineon TechnologiesON SemiconductorMitsubishi Electric CorpToshibaSTMicroelectronicsVishay IntertechnologyFuji ElectricRenesas ElectronicsROHM SemiconductorNexperiaMicrosemiIXYS CorporationOtherGlobal Discrete Power Device Market: Key Product TypeTransistorDiodesThyristorsOthersGlobal Discrete Power Device Market: Key ApplicationAutomotive & TransportationIndustrialConsumerCommunicationOthersGlobal Discrete Power Device Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Discrete Power Device Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Discrete Power Device Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Discrete Power Device Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Discrete Power Device Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Transistor1.2.2 Diodes1.2.3 Thyristors1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Automotive & Transportation1.3.2 Industrial1.3.3 Consumer1.3.4 Communication1.3.5 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).......................ContinueGlobal Discrete Power Device Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Ferrous Slag Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Levy, NLMK, ArcelorMittal, Evraz, Tata Steel, CRH and Others

Ferrous Slag Market

https://goo.gl/nYcpuV

https://goo.gl/nYcpuV

https://goo.gl/nYcpuV

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Ferrous Slag market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Levy, NLMK, ArcelorMittal, Evraz, Tata Steel, CRH and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.This report studies the Ferrous Slag market. Slag is a broad term covering all non-metallic co products resulting from the separation of a metal from its ore, its chemistry and morphology depends on the metal being produced and the solidification process used. Slags can be broadly categorized as ferrous (iron/steel) and non-ferrous (copper, lead/zinc) depending on the industry from which they come. Depending on the iron and steel production process different slag types can be manufactured like blast furnace slag, basic oxygen furnace slag, electric arc furnace slag, secondary metallurgical slag and other slags.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Ferrous Slag Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:NSSMCLevyNLMKArcelorMittalEvrazTata SteelCRHJFEOtherGlobal Ferrous Slag Market: Key Product TypeBlast Furnace SlagSteel Making SlagGlobal Ferrous Slag Market: Key ApplicationConstructionCement ProductionAgriculturalOthersGlobal Ferrous Slag Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Ferrous Slag Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Ferrous Slag Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Ferrous Slag Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Ferrous Slag Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Blast Furnace Slag1.2.2 Steel Making Slag1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Construction1.3.2 Cement Production1.3.3 Agricultural1.3.4 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).......................ContinueGlobal Ferrous Slag Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
French Door Refrigerators Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Whirlpool Corporation, Electrolux, Midea, Samsung, Bosch, LG, Meiling, Panasonic, Arcelik A.S. and Others

French Door Refrigerators Market

https://goo.gl/sSzesE

https://goo.gl/sSzesE

https://goo.gl/sSzesE

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global French Door Refrigerators market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Whirlpool Corporation, Electrolux, Midea, Samsung, Bosch, LG, Meiling, Panasonic, Arcelik A.S. and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.This report studies the French Door Refrigerators market. French door refrigerators are named after the architectural structure of French doors: they are refrigerators with the same features of French doors. These machines also have a bottom freezer door with a separate handle. French door refrigerators are fairly new in terms of appliances since they didnt become widely available for sale until 2005. The main advantage of this type of refrigerator is that only one side of the fridge needs to be opened at one time.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global French Door Refrigerators Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:HaierWhirlpool CorporationElectroluxMideaSamsungBoschLGMeilingPanasonicArcelik A.S.SharpOtherGlobal French Door Refrigerators Market: Key Product TypeUnder 15 cu.ft.15 - 20 cu.ft.20 - 25 cu.ft.Above 25 cu.ft.Global French Door Refrigerators Market: Key ApplicationOn-lineOff-lineGlobal French Door Refrigerators Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global French Door Refrigerators Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global French Door Refrigerators Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global French Door Refrigerators Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 French Door Refrigerators Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Under 15 cu.ft.1.2.2 15 - 20 cu.ft.1.2.3 20 - 25 cu.ft.1.2.4 Above 25 cu.ft.1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 On-line1.3.2 Off-line1.4 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).......................ContinueGlobal French Door Refrigerators Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Global And Chinese Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Industry, 2017 Market Research Report

https://www.researchtrades.com/discount/1236480

https://www.researchtrades.com/report/global-and-chinese-acrylic-resin-industrial-coating-industry-2017-market-research-report/1236480

https://www.researchtrades.com/request-sample/1236480

September Offer Flat 20% discount on purchase of this report from 15th to 30th September @For more offers post 30th September, kindly contact us.Contact No. : +16269994607 (US)/ +91 7507349866 (IND)Email: sales@researchtrades.comThe 'Global and Chinese Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Industry, 2012-2022 Market Research Report' is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the global Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating industry with a focus on the Chinese market. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating manufacturers and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry.Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications and manufacturing technology. Then, the report explores the international and Chinese major industry players in detail. In this part, the report presents the company profile, product specifications, capacity, production value, and 2012-2017 market shares for each company. Through the statistical analysis, the report depicts the global and Chinese total market of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating industry including capacity, production, production value, cost/profit, supply/demand and Chinese import/export.Browse complete report atThe total market is further divided by company, by country, and by application/type for the competitive landscape analysis. The report then estimates 2017-2022 market development trends of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating industry. Analysis of upstream raw materials, downstream demand, and current market dynamics is also carried out. In the end, the report makes some important proposals for a new project of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Industry before evaluating its feasibility. Overall, the report provides an in-depth insight of 2012-2022 global and Chinese Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating industry covering all important parameters.Any special requirements about this report, please let us know and we can provide custom report.Chapter One Introduction of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Industry1.1 Brief Introduction of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating1.2 Development of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Industry1.3 Status of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating IndustryChapter Two Manufacturing Technology of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating2.1 Development of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Manufacturing Technology2.2 Analysis of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Manufacturing Technology2.3 Trends of Acrylic Resin Industrial Coating Manufacturing TechnologyRequest for sample atChapter Three Analysis of Global Key Manufacturers3.1 Company A3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Product Information3.1.3 2012-2017 Production Information3.1.4 Contact Information3.2 Company B3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Product Information3.2.3 2012-2017 Production Information3.2.4 Contact Information3.3 Company C3.2.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Product Information3.3.3 2012-2017 Production Information3.3.4 Contact Information3.4 Company D3.4.1 Company Profile.....Who we are:Research 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.
Anti-Static Bags Market trends estimates high demand by 2024

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=15356

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=15356

www.transparencymarketresearch.com/

Packaging has become a dynamic constituent of modern life due to the ease of transportation, storage and inclination of the consumer towards a wide usage of bags. Moreover, food products, health supplements and electronic components are some of the things that have observed improvements regarding demand over the last few years and are more easily available due to an effective packaging solution. Anti-static bags are one of the effective packaging solutions that provides all the features related to high performance during transportation & storage and provide moisture, corrosion and shielding protection for sensitive products and components. Most of the anti-static bags are lay flat or gusseted in nature and are available in different sizes and can be individually custom-made to the size and transportation to meet the product or customer precise needs. These anti-static bags are available as zip top, heat sealed or a combination of both.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Anti-Static Bags Market- Market Segmentation:The global anti-static bags market can be segmented on the basis of product type, packing type, material type and end use type. On the basis of product type, anti-static bags market can be segmented into static shielding bag, and poly anti-static polythene bags. Anti-static bags are used for electronic components, whereas as poly anti-static bags are suitable for food and health care supplements. On the basis of packing type, anti-static bags market can be segmented into zip top bags, open top bags, tubing, sheeting, gusseted cover bags, heat seal bags and others. Where in zip top bags are re-usable in nature due to re-close feature. On the basis of material type, anti-static bags market can be segmented into dissipative polyethylene, laminate polyester, laminate nylon, and foil. On the basis of applications anti-static bags market can be segmented into electronics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals.Anti-Static Bags Market- Market Dynamics:One of the important factors contributing towards the growth of anti-static bags market is the increasing preference for electronics, consumer durables and smartphone accessories on the backdrop of rising disposable income among the working population. Moreover, another factor towards the growth of anti-static bags is, it maximizes the protection of electrostatic and sensitive components from potential electrostatic hazards. Another key factor towards the growth of anti-static bags market is the increasing modern retail outlets due to its vast flexibility and increasing disposable income among consumers globally. Another factor that is fueling the growth of anti-static bags market is the increasing demand for pharmaceutical product and medicine through e-commerce channel. Furthermore, the rise in the usage of the electronic component in the key industrial sectors is another factor contributing towards the growth of anti-static bags market. However, government regulation towards the use of plastic is expected to hamper the growth of anti-static bags market. Moreover, the high cost of moisture barrier anti-static bag packaging is considered as another restraining factor towards the growth of anti-static bags market.Anti-Static Bags Market- Regional Outlook:Geographically, the anti-static bags market can be segmented into North Americas anti-static bags market, Latin Americas anti-static bags market, Europes anti-static bags market, Asia-Pacific anti-static bags market and Middle East & Africas anti-static bags market. The growth of global anti-static bags market is expected to witness a healthy CAGR over the forecast period of 2016-2024. Moreover, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness a high growth of anti-static bags market due to the impressive growth in the sales of consumer electronic goods. The demand of the anti-static bags market is expected to witness an above average growth in North America due to the higher adoption of anti-static bags for commercial and industrial use.Anti-Static Bags Market- Major Players:Some of the major players identified across the globe in the Anti-Static Bags market are Katzke Paper Co., Protective Packaging Corporation, Digi-Key Corporation, IMPAK Corporation, 3M Company, Texas Technologies Inc., Dou Yee Enterprises (S) Pte Ltd, Teknis Limited, Advantek, Inc., , and Hisco, Inc.Request TOC of the Report@The anti-static bags market research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The anti-static bags market research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geography, technology, and applications.The Anti-Static Bags Market Report Covers Exhaust Analysis On:Market SegmentsMarket DynamicsMarket SizeSupply & DemandCurrent Trends /Issues/ChallengesCompetition & Companies involvedTechnologyRegional Analysis Of Anti-Static Bags Market Includes:North AmericaLatin AmericaEuropeAsia PacificMiddle East & AfricaAbout 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 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:
Injection Molded Plastics Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 SABIC, BASF, Sinopec, DuPont, Honeywell, Lanxess, Ineos, Borealis, NOVA Chemicals, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Teijin and Others

Injection Molded Plastics Market

https://goo.gl/4cQ1mJ

https://goo.gl/4cQ1mJ

https://goo.gl/4cQ1mJ

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Injection Molded Plastics market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely SABIC, BASF, Sinopec, DuPont, Honeywell, Lanxess, Ineos, Borealis, NOVA Chemicals, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Teijin and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.This report studies the Injection Molded Plastics market. In the plastic molding process, plastic resins are used in pellet or granular form. Choice of plastic type depends on the kind of product being made, its requirements and the overall budget. Of the hundreds of available plastics, only a few are safe for consumer use. Some of the ones used in the plastic injection molding process include polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride and acrylic.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Injection Molded Plastics Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:DOWExxonMobilSABICBASFSinopecDuPontHoneywellLanxessIneosBorealisNOVA ChemicalsChevron Phillips ChemicalTeijinShin-Etsu ChemicalMitsubishiEvonikOtherGlobal Injection Molded Plastics Market: Key Product TypeABSHDPEPolystyrene(PS)OtherGlobal Injection Molded Plastics Market: Key ApplicationAutomotivePackagingConsumer GoodsHealthcareOthersGlobal Injection Molded Plastics Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Injection Molded Plastics Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Injection Molded Plastics Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Injection Molded Plastics Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Injection Molded Plastics Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 ABS1.2.2 HDPE1.2.3 Polystyrene(PS)1.2.4 Other1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Automotive1.3.2 Packaging1.3.3 Consumer Goods1.3.4 Healthcare1.3.5 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).......................ContinueGlobal Injection Molded Plastics Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Cakes Frosting & Icing Market Global Potential Growth,Share,Demand and Analysis Of Key Players Forecasts to 2021

Cakes Frosting & Icing Market 2017

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2282380-global-north-america-europe-and-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/enquiry/2282380-global-north-america-europe-and-asia-pacific-south-america-middle-east

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=2282380

WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On - Cakes Frosting & Icing Market Global Potential Growth,Share,Demand and Analysis Of Key Players Forecasts to 2021.Cakes icing, often called cakes frosting in the United States, is a sweet, often creamy glaze made of sugar with a liquid, such as water or milk that is often enriched with ingredients like butter, egg whites, cream cheese, or flavorings.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comScope of the Report:This report focuses on the Cakes Frosting & Icing 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 coversPinnacle FoodsBetty CrockerRich ProductCSM Bakery SolutionsWilton IndustriesDawn FoodLawrence FoodsDixies IcingMarket 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, coversPackaged Cakes Frosting & IcingUnpackaged Cakes Frosting & IcingMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoBakeryRestaurantResidentialAsk Query @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Cakes Frosting & Icing market.Chapter 1, to describe Cakes Frosting & Icing Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Cakes Frosting & Icing, with sales, revenue, and price of Cakes Frosting & Icing, 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 Cakes Frosting & Icing, for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Continue..Table Of Contents  Major Key Points1 Market Overview1.1 Cakes Frosting & Icing Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Packaged Cakes Frosting & Icing1.2.2 Unpackaged Cakes Frosting & Icing1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Bakery1.3.2 Restaurant1.3.3 Residential1.4 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 Force2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 Pinnacle Foods2.1.1 Business Overview2.1.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.1.2.1 Type 12.1.2.2 Type 22.1.3 Pinnacle Foods Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.2 Betty Crocker2.2.1 Business Overview2.2.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.2.2.1 Type 12.2.2.2 Type 22.2.3 Betty Crocker Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.3 Rich Product2.3.1 Business Overview2.3.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.3.2.1 Type 12.3.2.2 Type 22.3.3 Rich Product Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.4 CSM Bakery Solutions2.4.1 Business Overview2.4.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.4.2.1 Type 12.4.2.2 Type 22.4.3 CSM Bakery Solutions Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.5 Wilton Industries2.5.1 Business Overview2.5.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.5.2.1 Type 12.5.2.2 Type 22.5.3 Wilton Industries Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.6 Dawn Food2.6.1 Business Overview2.6.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.6.2.1 Type 12.6.2.2 Type 22.6.3 Dawn Food Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.7 Lawrence Foods2.7.1 Business Overview2.7.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.7.2.1 Type 12.7.2.2 Type 22.7.3 Lawrence Foods Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.8 Dixies Icing2.8.1 Business Overview2.8.2 Cakes Frosting & Icing Type and Applications2.8.2.1 Type 12.8.2.2 Type 22.8.3 Dixies Icing Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)3 Global Cakes Frosting & Icing Market Competition, by Manufacturer3.1 Global Cakes Frosting & Icing Sales and Market Share by Manufacturer (2016-2017)3.2 Global Cakes Frosting & Icing Revenue and Market Share by Manufacturer (2016-2017)3.3 Global Cakes Frosting & Icing Price by Manufacturer (2016-2017)3.4 Market Concentration Rate3.4.1 Top 3 Cakes Frosting & Icing Manufacturer Market Share3.4.2 Top 5 Cakes Frosting & Icing Manufacturer Market Share3.5 Market Competition TrendContinue.For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comBuy 1-User PDF@ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Caustic Soda Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 OxyChem, Axiall, Olin Corporation, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Tosoh, Inovyn,Asahi Glass, Covestro, and Others

Caustic Soda Market

https://goo.gl/5E23k8

https://goo.gl/5E23k8

https://goo.gl/5E23k8

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Caustic Soda market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely OxyChem, Axiall, Olin Corporation, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Tosoh, Inovyn,Asahi Glass, Covestro, and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Sodium hydroxide is also known as caustic soda, caustic, and lye. Anhydrous (100%, solid) caustic soda has a chemical formula of NaOH and a molecular weight of 40.00.It is available commercially in the form of liquid, solid, flakes, or particles. Sodium hydroxide has diverse industrial applications due to its strong alkaline nature. It is integral to the manufacture of petroleum products, pulp and paper, alumina, textiles, and soaps and detergents, along with its application in chemical processing, water treatment and petroleum processing.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Caustic Soda Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:Dow ChemicalOxyChemAxiallOlin CorporationFormosa Plastics CorporationTosohInovynAsahi GlassCovestroShin-Etsu ChemicalAkzoNobelHanwha ChemicalSolvayLG ChemicalTokuyama CorpSABICKemiraBasfAditya Birla ChemicalsGACLJoint Stock Company KaustikSanmar GroupUnipar CarbocloroBraskemKem OneVinnolitEvonikVESTOLITTessenderlo GroupErcrosChemChinaXinjiang Zhongtai ChemicalXinjiang TianyeShaanxi Beiyuan GroupShandong JinlingSP Chemical(Taixing)Shanghai Chlor-alkaliShandong Haili ChemicalShandong Huatai GroupNantong Jiangshan Agrochemical & ChemicalsOtherGlobal Caustic Soda Market: Key Product TypeLiquid Caustic SodaSolid Caustic SodaCaustic Soda FlakeCaustic Soda ParticleGlobal Caustic Soda Market: Key ApplicationPulp and PaperTextilesSoap and DetergentsBleach ManufacturingPetroleum ProductsAluminum ProductionChemical ProcessingGlobal Caustic Soda Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Caustic Soda Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Caustic Soda Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Caustic Soda Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Market Segment Overview1.1.1 Product Definition1.1.2 Market by Type1.1.2.1 Liquid Caustic Soda1.1.2.2 Solid Caustic Soda1.1.2.3 Caustic Soda Flake1.1.2.4 Caustic Soda Particle1.1.3 Market by Application1.1.3.1 Pulp and Paper1.1.3.2 Textiles1.1.3.3 Soap and Detergents1.1.3.4 Bleach Manufacturing1.1.3.5 Petroleum Products1.1.3.6 Aluminum Production1.1.3.7 Chemical Processing.......................ContinueGlobal Caustic Soda Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Colocation Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 CenturyLink, Interxion, Verizon Enterprise, Telehouse, AT&T, DFT, and Others

Colocation Market

https://goo.gl/nc6D9u

https://goo.gl/nc6D9u

https://goo.gl/nc6D9u

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Colocation market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely CenturyLink, Interxion, Verizon Enterprise, Telehouse, AT&T, DFT, and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.A Colocation center (or colo) offers dedicated facility, where a business can physically house their servers and other equipment. Businesses can rent the space, as opposed to locating their servers or other computing hardware in their offices, for greater network reliability and uptime.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Colocation Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:EquinixDigital RealtyNTT CommunicationsCenturyLinkInterxionVerizon EnterpriseTelehouseAT&TDFTRackspaceNavisiteColtCoresiteSunGard Availability ServicesI/O Data CentersInternapLevel 3 CommunicationsPeer 1 HostingQTSTeraGo NetworksWindstreamGlobal SwitchCyrusone21VianetChinaCacheChinaNetCenterNetbank51IDCEquinixDigital RealtyNTT CommunicationsCenturyLinkInterxionVerizon EnterpriseTelehouseAT&TDFTRackspaceNavisiteColtCoresiteSunGard Availability ServicesI/O Data CentersInternapLevel 3 CommunicationsPeer 1 HostingQTSTeraGo NetworksWindstreamGlobal SwitchCyrusone21VianetChinaCacheChinaNetCenterNetbankOtherGlobal Colocation Market: Key Product TypeRetail ColocationWholesale ColocationGlobal Colocation Market: Key ApplicationBanking, Financial and InsuranceGovernment & PublicTelecom & ITHealthcare & Life sciencesEnergyOthersGlobal Colocation Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Colocation Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Colocation Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Colocation Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Market Segment Overview1.1.1 Product Definition1.1.2 Market by Type1.1.2.1 Retail Colocation1.1.2.2 Wholesale Colocation1.1.3 Market by Application1.1.3.1 Banking, Financial and Insurance1.1.3.2 Government & Public1.1.3.3 Telecom & IT1.1.3.4 Healthcare & Life sciences1.1.3.5 Energy1.1.3.6 Others.......................ContinueGlobal Colocation Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Tissue Engineering Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 C. R. Bard, Zimmer Biomet, Osiris Therapeutics, Acell, Cryolife, Organogenesis, DSM and Others

Tissue Engineering Market

https://goo.gl/EYkBv4

https://goo.gl/EYkBv4

https://goo.gl/EYkBv4

http://marketreportscompany.com

lobal Tissue Engineering market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely C. R. Bard, Zimmer Biomet, Osiris Therapeutics, Acell, Cryolife, Organogenesis, DSM and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Tissue Engineering Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:AcelityIntegra LifesciencesC. R. BardZimmer BiometOsiris TherapeuticsAcellCryolifeOrganogenesisDSMBiocompositesEpiskinAthersysJapan Tissue EngineeringInternational Stem CellB. BraunBiotimeBio Tissue TechnologiesOtherGlobal Tissue Engineering Market: Key Product TypeSynthetic MaterialsBiologically Derived MaterialsOthersGlobal Tissue Engineering Market: Key ApplicationNwurologyOrthopedicsCardiologySkin & IntegumentaryGlobal Tissue Engineering Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Tissue Engineering Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Tissue Engineering Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Tissue Engineering Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Market Segment Overview1.1.1 Product Definition1.1.2 Market by Type1.1.2.1 Synthetic Materials1.1.2.2 Biologically Derived Materials1.1.2.3 Others1.1.3 Market by Application1.1.3.1 Nwurology1.1.3.2 Orthopedics1.1.3.3 Cardiology1.1.3.4 Skin & Integumentary.......................ContinueGlobal Tissue Engineering Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market Report for Period 2011 till 2023 Terumo Corporation, B. Braun, Halyard Health, Smiths Group, Baxter International, Fresenius, Moog and Others

Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market

https://goo.gl/pJDqKA

https://goo.gl/pJDqKA

https://goo.gl/pJDqKA

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Terumo Corporation, B. Braun, Halyard Health, Smiths Group, Baxter International, Fresenius, Moog and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Active pharmaceutical ingredients or APIs can be defined as the chemicals used to manufacture pharmaceutical drugs. The active ingredient (AI) is the substance or substances that are biologically active within the drug and is the specific component responsible for the desired effect it has on the individual taking it. API also refers to the active or central ingredient in the product which causes the direct effect on the disease diagnosis, prevention, treatment or cure. While API is the active component of a drug, excipients are the inactive or inert substances present in a drug.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:TevaNovartisPfizerJohnson & JohnsonMylanNorth China Pharmaceutical GroupDr. Reddys LaboratoriesRocheAurobindo pharmaSun Pharmaceutical IndustriesBoehringer Ingelheim GmbHBayerBASFDSMZhejiang MedicineBioconJohnson MattheyHisun PharmacyCambrexShandong Xinhua PharmaceuticalLonza groupHuahai PharmaceuticalHaerbin Pharmaceutical GroupCiplaTian YaoLupinNorth East PharmaceuticalAlbemarleShandong Lukang PharmaceuticalJiangsu Hengrui MedicineBachemOtherGlobal Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market: Key Product TypeSynthetic APIBiotech APIOtherGlobal Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market: Key ApplicationNon-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)Oncology DrugsAnti-diabetic DrugsCardiovascular DrugsCentral Nervous System Drugs (CNS Drugs)Musculoskeletal DrugsOther DrugsGlobal Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Market Segment Overview1.1.1 Product Definition1.1.2 Market by Type1.1.2.1 Synthetic API1.1.2.2 Biotech API1.1.2.3 Other1.1.3 Market by Application1.1.3.1 Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)1.1.3.2 Oncology Drugs1.1.3.3 Anti-diabetic Drugs1.1.3.4 Cardiovascular Drugs1.1.3.5 Central Nervous System Drugs (CNS Drugs)1.1.3.6 Musculoskeletal Drugs1.1.3.7 Other Drugs.......................ContinueGlobal Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
WIFI Chipsets Market Report for Period 2017 till 2022 Marvell, Intel, Realtek, STMicroelectronics and Others

WIFI Chipsets Market

https://goo.gl/zV1DHB

https://goo.gl/zV1DHB

https://goo.gl/zV1DHB

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global WIFI Chipsets Market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Marvell, Intel, Realtek, STMicroelectronics and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.A wireless chipset is a piece of internal hardware designed to allow a device to communicate with another wireless-enabled device. This type of chipset can be found inside computers as well as a number of other wireless products. Types of hardware that might contain a wireless chipset include wireless Computer (Notbook and Desktop PC) hardware like wireless local area network (WLAN) cards and external WLAN adapters. Other types of hardware that might include a wireless chipset include routers and any other wireless devices that transmit or receive a wireless signal.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global WIFI Chipsets Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:BroadcomQualcomm AtherosMediaTekMarvellIntelRealtekSTMicroelectronicsTexas InstrumentsCypress SemiconductorMicrochipOthersGlobal WIFI Chipsets Market: Key Product Type802.11n802.11ac802.11adOthersGlobal WIFI Chipsets Market: Key ApplicationComputer (Notbook and Desktop PC)Smart Home DevicesMobile PhoneOthersGlobal WIFI Chipsets Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global WIFI Chipsets Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global WIFI Chipsets Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global WIFI Chipsets Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 WIFI Chipsets Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 802.11n1.2.2 802.11ac1.2.3 802.11ad1.2.4 Others1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Computer (Notbook and Desktop PC)1.3.2 Smart Home Devices1.3.3 Mobile Phone1.3.4 Others1.4 Market Analysis by Regions.......................Continue (Global WIFI Chipsets Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Organic Beer Global Market 2017 by Key Players: Asher Brewing, Bison Brewing, Butte Creek Brewing, Eel River Brewing, Hopworks Urban Brewery and Forecast 2023

Organic Beer, Organic Beer Market, Organic Beer Industry, Organic Beer, Organic Beer Size, Organic Beer, Organic Beer Segmentation

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/organic-beer-market-3963

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/3963

Global Organic Beer Production Value, Gross Margin Analysis, Sales, Demand, and Global Research Report 2023SummaryThe Global Organic Beer Market Information: By Type (Ale, Lager, Stouts & Porters And Others), By Ingredients (Malt, Yeast, Enzymes, Hops, And Others), By Certification (100% Organic, 95% Organic) And By Region - Forecast To 2023Browse Complete report @Study Objectives of the Organic Beer MarketThis report provides a detailed analysis of the market segments and sub-segments. The data provided here facilitates to estimate and forecast market-size by type, ingredients, certification, and region. It also involves a descriptive analysis of the key driving forces that are influencing the market.Furthermore, it provides a clear segregation as a part of the regional level market analysis and estimates the market concerning four core geographies i.e. North America, Europe, Asia and the rest of the world (RoW) and their respective countries.This report also offers a two-fold analysis (Value Chain Analysis & Supply Chain Analysis) of the targeted market i.e. Global Organic Beer Market. Company profiles of a few of the major competitors in the market and their respective competitive strategies along with a concise mapping of the key stakeholders will also be one of the many insights that this report would offer.Finally, this report covers the analysis of historical market trends and technologies along with current government regulatory.Intended AudienceOrganic Beer ManufacturersRaw Material SuppliersEnd Users (Food Industry)Retailers and WholesalersE-commerce CompaniesTraders, Importers And ExportersMarket Synopsis of Organic BeerMarket ScenarioOrganic malt beer brewed with traditional methods and ingredients, inspired by classic styles. However, unlike regular packaged beer, organic beer is free from GMO, chemical fertilizers, and chemical preservatives. The global organic beer market holds large opportunities with the rising awareness about adverse side effect caused due to added chemical preservatives. Beer is the third most popular drink after water and tea, and its consumption is higher, especially, amongst the young population. Furthermore, the consumers are ready to pay a premium price for the organic beer because they are more concerned regarding the safety and ingredients used in the beer.The global organic beer market is expected to be driven by the increasing per capita disposable income of the consumer in developed countries. Also, the increasing purchasing capability of the consumers in the developing nation is considered to be the significant factor for the rising growth of the organic beer soon. Additionally, the increasing youth population is expected to be one of the key factors for the substantial development of the organic beer market during the forecast period. Increasing urbanization and developing economies in Asia Pacific are also expected to propel the sale of organic beer in the upcoming decade.Request a Sample Report @Key FindingsNorth America dominates the organic beer market followed by EuropeEurope is the fastest growing region in the organic beer market. Germany and Spain will show a huge potentials for the organic beer market share during reviewed period 2017-2023SegmentsThe global organic beer market is segmented on the basis of types, and is segmented into ale, lager, stouts & porters and others. Ale dominates the market and expected to grow at a higher CAGR due to the rising demand for innovative beer.On the basis of ingredients, market is segmented into malt and other cereal grain, yeast, enzymes, hops, and others. Malt dominates the market, however hops will be highest growing segments over the review period.Regional AnalysisThe global organic beer market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and rest of the world (ROW). Among these, North America region is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to the increasing per capita disposable income coupled with the favorable demographic population. Among the Europe, Germany is estimated to account for maximum market proportion over the forecast period.Key PlayersThe key players profiled in the organic beer market are Asher Brewing Co. (U.S.), Bison Brewing Co. (U.S.), Butte Creek Brewing Co. (U.S.), Eel River Brewing Co. (U.S.), Hopworks Urban Brewery (U.S.), Laurelwood Public House and Brewery (U.S.), Pisgah Brewing Co. (U.S.)The global organic beer market is segmented under the following regions mentioned belowNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeEuropeGermanyFranceItalySpainUKRest of EuropeAsia-PacificChinaIndiaAustraliaSingaporeRest of Asia PacificRest of the worldBrazilArgentinaSaudi ArabiaSouth AfricaOthersThe report for global organic beer 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 markets segments and regions.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.Office No. 524/528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar
3D Printing Market: Industry Analysis And Detailed Profiles Of Top Industry Players

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/3d-printing-industry.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=1803

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The demand in the global 3D printing market is projected to expand at a remarkable CAGR of 18.0% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2025, gaining traction from a number of factors such as strikingly higher resolution, reduction in manufacturing cost owing to recent technological advancements, ease in the development of customized products, growing possibilities of using multiple materials for printing, and government investments in 3D printing projects. While the lack of proper process control and limitations regarding product size are obstructing the global 3D printing market, the stockholders will continue to gain new opportunities from untapped end-use industries such as printed electronics, automotive, education, and jewelry. The global 3D printing market was valued at US$7.3 bn in 2016, and is estimated to reach a valuation of US$32.3 bn by the end of the forecast period, i.e. 2025.The global 3D printing market was valued at US$7.3 bn in 2016, and is estimated to reach a valuation of US$32.3 bn by the end of the forecast period, i.e. 2025. Commercial Sector Serves Maximum Demand Witnessed in Market On the basis of use, the global 3D printing market has been segmented into commercial and personal. Commercial uses of 3D printing, which continues to serve the most significant chunk of demand, include rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing, mass production, and mass customization. On the other hand, personal applications include printing 3D objects in-house for personal use. In 2016, the commercial segment accounted for more than half of the demand-share, contributing to US$ 5,932.3 mn of revenue.Browse Our Report @This segment is expected to hold most prominent market share in 2025 too, growing at 17.8% CAGR during the forecast period. This is mainly due to improvement in the quality of 3D printing materials that has prompted manufacturers to incorporate 3D printing in their current manufacturing practices. Technology-wise, the global 3D printing market is bifurcated into polyjet, selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM), and stereolithography (SLA). In 2016, polyJet technology accounted for nearly 41% of the total market share, and is anticipated to exhibit an above-average growth rate. FDM segment is the second most prominent shareholding segment, and dominates the 3D printing market in terms of volume shipment. This is a reflection of increasing demand for FDM printers for both personal and commercial use. FDM is also popular in a variety of industrial applications, from automotive to consumer goods. Application-wise, the market for 3D printing has been categorized into consumer products and electronics, automotive, medical, industrial, aerospace, military and defense, architecture, and education.Presently, consumer product category serves the maximum demand, followed by the automotive sector, wherein 3D printing is used to print a number of parts for automobiles. Some of the examples can be interior parts such as engines, gearbox handle, gears, shafts, brakes and spare parts as well as external parts such as window frames, doors, body parts, steering handle, head and taillights. North America Emerges as Highly Lucrative Region In 2016, North America served the maximum demand among all regions wherein the 3D printing market has potential.Brochure With Latest Advancements With Application @This was primarily a reflection of the presence of several major 3D printing market players in the country-wide made of the U.S., which is worlds fourth most populous country. In the near future, North America 3D printing market is anticipated to expand further, with increasing awareness among consumers regarding the benefits of using 3D printing in commercial and household applications. Europe follows North America in terms of the geographical market share. Germany, Italy, France, and Sweden are identified as most lucrative country-wide markets for 3D printing in the region of Europe. Asia Pacific, on the other hand, has been projected to exhibit the best CAGR among all regions under the study during the forecast period.The Asia Pacific 3D Printing market is expected to reach US$ 8,207.3 mn by 2025. Stratasys, Ltd., Solidscape, Inc., and EOS GmbH are three companies holding stronger position in the global 3D printing market than other key players, such as Optomec, Concept Laser GmbH, Voxeljet Technology GmbH, ExOne GmbH, SLM Solutions GmbH, and Arcam AB.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:
Automotive Micro Switch Market: Technologies, Markets and Key Players

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=29684

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/automotive-micro-switch-market.htm

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/29684

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The global Automotive Micro Switch Market is highly competitive due to the high concentration of manufacturers in the increasingly lucrative market. The automotive micro switch market is cost-competitive in nature, and with the presence of many small players in the market, partnerships with automobile manufacturers have become crucial for success. Some of the key players engaged in the automotive micro switches market are Alps Electric, C&K Components Inc., CAMSCO Electric Co. Ltd., Crouzet Automatismes SAS, Honeywell Sensing and Productivity Solutions, Johnson Electric Holdings Ltd., The APEM Group, Microprecision Electronics, OMRON Corporation, Knitter Switch, Panasonic Corporation, Salecom Electric Co. Ltd., TE Connectivity, TROX GmBH, ZF Electronics, and Zippy Technology, among others.The global automotive micro switch market was valued at US$2,728.8 mn in 2016 and is likely to rise to US$4,282.2 mn by 2025, at a steady CAGR of 5.1%.Geographically, Asia Pacific dominates the global automotive micro switch market, followed by North America. The Asia Pacific automotive micro switch market was valued at US$927.1 mn in 2016 and is expected to exhibit a robust 5.5% CAGR from 2017 to 2025. China and India are likely to remain the leading contributors to the Asia Pacific automotive micro switch market in the coming years. Moreover, the Middle East and Africa automotive micro switch market is expected to exhibit a strong 5.9% CAGR in the coming years, further providing solid drive to the global automotive micro switch market.Sample With Latest Advancements @The growth of the micro switch market is mainly attributable to the growing automotive industry. The flourishing automotive industry in emerging economies in Asia Pacific is influencing the growth of the automotive micro switch market in the region. With rising urbanization and the rising disposable income of consumers in developing Asia Pacific economies, the local automotive industry has soared in recent years and is likely to feed ancillary industries such as the automotive micro switch market. The rising use of electronics in modern automotive design is thus likely to remain a key driver for the global automotive micro switch market.Rising demand for new infrastructure construction in countries such as China and India is also likely to drive the automotive micro switch market in Asia Pacific in the coming years. This not only drives the demand for electrical fittings, but also elevates the demand from the transportation sector, making it a crucial part of the revenue channels of the automotive micro switch market. Middle Eastern countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia could also play an important role in the automotive micro switch market in the coming years due to the steady rise in infrastructure development in these soaring economies.Browse Our Press Releases For More Information @One of the prominent drivers for the global micro switch market is the booming consumer electronics industry. The rising disposable income of urban consumers and steady growth of local consumer electronics industries in countries such as China and South Korea has led to promising prospects for the market in Asia Pacific. The rise of countries such as India as a key market for smartphones and as an emerging force in the electronics manufacturing sector is also likely to help the micro switch market in Asia Pacific in the coming years.Geographically, Asia Pacific is the largest market for automotive micro switches, followed by North America and Europe. The Asia Pacific automotive micro switch market was valued at US$927.1 mn in 2016 and is expected to rise to US$1,525.3 mn by 2025. The Middle East and Africa is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period as the number of automotive factories is expected to rise significantly in the region in the coming years. The Middle East and Africa market for automotive micro switches is likely to exhibit a CAGR of 5.9% in the 2017-2025 forecast period, rising to a revenue valuation of US$346.9 mn by 2025.Browse Our Table of Content @The automotive micro switch market is highly fragmented with a number of companies operating in the segment. Companies such as Honeywell Sensing and Productivity Solutions, Panasonic Corporation, etc. have been able to establish themselves as leaders. Leading players are currently focusing on providing cost competitive products to customers. Moreover, as part of this strategy, many companies are engaging in various strategic partnerships and acquisitions, focusing on expanding their business through new service additions and geographical presence.Some of the key players engaged in the automotive micro switches market are Alps Electric, C&K Components Inc., CAMSCO Electric Co. Ltd., Crouzet Automatismes SAS, Honeywell Sensing and Productivity Solutions, Johnson Electric Holdings Ltd., The APEM Group, Microprecision Electronics, OMRON Corporation, Knitter Switch, Panasonic Corporation, Salecom Electric Co. Ltd., TE Connectivity, TROX GmBH, ZF Electronics, and Zippy Technology, among 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. 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:
Thermal Energy Flow Metering Solutions Market: Market and Growth Analysis

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/thermal-energy-flow-metering-solutions-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=29573

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

The global thermal energy flow metering solutions market is highly competitive on account of the presence of a number of manufacturers. In order to stay ahead of the curve, players are expending time and money on product innovation. They are adding more features and functions to their products in order to entice buyers. Low barriers to entry of aspiring players is also serving to make the market competitive.Majorly fuelling the global thermal energy flow metering solutions market is the thrust by many countries on onsite power generation and solar thermal energy in order to cut down their annual fossil fuel import and up energy security. Further serving to contribute to the market is the surging popularity of sustainable buildings and green buildings and the rampant urbanization which has resulted in pressing need for adequate water supply.On the flipside, however, rising adoption of hybrid metering systems is expected to crimp sales of thermal energy flow meters in the next couple of years. A report by Transparency Market Research forecasts the global thermal energy flow metering solutions to rise at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2017 to 2025 to become worth US$4.706 bn by 2025.Browse Our Report @The global market for thermal energy flow metering solutions can be segmented based on different parameters. Depending upon type, the global thermal energy flow metering solutions market can be segmented into portable, insertion, and inline. Among them, the portable segment is expected to expand at a healthy clip in the next couple of years.From a geographical standpoint, Europe accounts for a leading share in the global thermal energy flow metering solutions market and it is trailed by North America. Rapid industrialization is one of the primary reasons for the growth in the market in the two regions. The chemical and wastewater industries, particularly, are at the forefront of driving demand for flow meters in the two regions. In Europe, expansion of multinational companies in countries of Germany, the U.K., and France, rising investments in capital projects, and launch of cutting edge flow meters have boosted growth in the market.In terms of growth rate, Asia-Pacific is expected to surpass all other regions in the global thermal energy flow metering solutions market. This is mainly because of the technological progress and industrialization, coupled with concerns over the environment, which has necessitated continuous emissions monitoring systems in countries of Japan, China, and India. This has served to boost the market in the region. Substantial demand for measuring meters in oil and gas industry is also proving beneficial for the market.Brochure With Latest Advancements With Application @The Middle East and Africa and South America too are expected to grow at an impressive pace in the global thermal flow metering solutions market on the back of rising demand from the commercial and residential segment. In the Middle East and Africa, the wirelessly connected data collection tools, technologies, devices and sensors are the fastest growing segments. South America is anticipated to grow at a steady CAGR during the forecast period as well.Some of the prominent savvy companies operating in the global thermal energy flow metering solutions market are QMC, ABB Ltd, Elster Water, Siemens, Enercare Connections Inc., Fluid Components LLC, Emerson Electric Co., Kamstrup Group, Sage Metering, Landis+Gyr AG, Shenitech LLC, GE Electric Co., Sierra Instruments Inc., Yokogawa Electric, and 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. 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:
Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market Report for Period 2017 till 2022 Samsung, LG, Sharp, and Others

Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market

https://goo.gl/agftBZ

https://goo.gl/agftBZ

https://goo.gl/agftBZ

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Samsung, LG, Sharp, and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.The Quantum Dots Display is a new type of display used in flat panel displays as an electronic visual display. With many promising advantages, Quantum Dots Display is considered as a next generation display.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:SamsungLGSharpCSOTAUOBOEOthersGlobal Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market: Key Product TypeQLEDQDEFOthersGlobal Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market: Key ApplicationTVMonitorSmartphoneOthersGlobal Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 QLED1.2.2 QDEF1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 TV1.3.2 Monitor1.3.3 Smartphone1.3.4 Others1.4 Market Analysis by Regions......................Continue (Global Quantum Dots Display (QLED) Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
Muconic Acid Market Report for Period 2017 till 2022 Toronto Research Chemicals, Zhongxing Flavors & Fragrance, Alfa Aesar, and Others

Muconic Acid Market

https://goo.gl/DhmgZL

https://goo.gl/DhmgZL

https://goo.gl/DhmgZL

http://marketreportscompany.com

Global Muconic Acid Market report provides detailed analysis of companies namely Toronto Research Chemicals, Zhongxing Flavors & Fragrance, Alfa Aesar, and Others. This report study includes global market statistics and analysis for example, company performance, historical analysis 2012 to 2016, market forecast 2017 to 2023 in terms of volume, revenue, YOY growth rate, and CAGR for the year 2017 to 2023, etc.Muconic acid is a dicarboxylic acid. There are three isomeric forms designated trans,trans-muconic acid, cis,trans-muconic acid, and cis,cis-muconic acid which differ by the geometry around the double bonds.Request for Free Sample Copy of Global Muconic Acid Market 2017Top Company Profiles and Analysis included in this report:MyriantAmyrisSanta Cruz BiotechnologySigma-Aldrich CorporationTCIToronto Research ChemicalsZhongxing Flavors & FragranceAlfa AesarThermo Fisher ScientificDynacareOthersGlobal Muconic Acid Market: Key Product TypeTrans, Trans-Muconic AcidCis, Cis-Muconic AcidCis, Trans-Muconic AcidOthersGlobal Muconic Acid Market: Key ApplicationAdipic AcidScientific ResearchOthersGlobal Muconic Acid Market: Key RegionNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy and Others)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia and Others)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Others)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa and Others)The Global Muconic Acid Market analysis report provides detailed value chain for analysis of Global Muconic Acid Market. The value chain helps to analyze major upstream in raw materials, major equipments, manufacturing process, downstream customer analysis and major distributor analysis.The report also covers in-depth description, competitive scenario, wide product portfolio of prime players active in this market and business strategies adopted by competitors along with their SWOT analysis. Side by side, it also explicitly provides information about mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and all the other important activities happened in current and past few years. The Global Muconic Acid Market report explores manufacturers competitive scenario and provides market share for all major players of this market based on production capacity, sales, revenue, geographical presence and other major factors.Enquire before Buying @Table of Contents:1 Market Overview1.1 Muconic Acid Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Trans, Trans-Muconic Acid1.2.2 Cis, Cis-Muconic Acid1.2.3 Cis, Trans-Muconic Acid1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Adipic Acid1.3.2 Scientific Research1.3.3 Others.......................Continue (Global Muconic Acid Market Research Industry Report is prepared with the help of extensive primary and secondary sources, directories, journals, newsletters and with the help of third-party application like Hoovers, Factiva, Bloomberg, Businessweek, etc.About Us:Market Reports Company is a global research and consulting company. We provide customized reports. We can study and analyze any market based on wide range of parameters. We can provide market insights for any particular region, country across the globe within shortest possible turn around time.What we offer: Customized Reports: we provide customized report study on any market or industry. Region Specific Study: If you need region specific or if you are searching for particular region market study then, we have expert research team for that. How we work: We work in all domains and industries, you name it and we provide the market research industry report analysis of it. Expertise: Superior Research Team, 24*7 Customer Care ServiceContact UsJason Smith,Sales Manager, Global Business Development,Website:Email: jasonsmith@marketreportscompany.comContact us: +1-888-220-3424Address: 20 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 United States
NORPAC Foods notified Oregon employment officials last week that the company will close its Hermiston Foods plant in November and eliminate 199 seasonal jobs.

The company announced the closure in July. The East Oregonian reported at the time that the closure was tied to NORPAC's decision to sell off canning operations to Seneca Foods Corp. In July, NORPAC also said it will eliminate 223 seasonal jobs in Salem because of the sale.

-- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699
By Bethany Barnes and Gordon Friedman

Oregon's secretary of state announced Monday he will audit Portland Public Schools, an unusual move prompted by his concerns over the district's decision to sue a parent and reporter to keep records secret.

Dennis Richardson said Portland residents have complained loudly to him about the district's high-profile problems. Oregon's largest school district has had such a rough go of it, the search firm for the new superintendent told the school board the next leader would need to address a "great deal of hurt and pain."

"We're going to give the district an opportunity to show that the criticism is unfair," Richardson said.

Richardson specifically cited the district's decision to sue public records requesters as one reason why it deserves an audit.

Portland Public Schools officials could not immediately be reached for comment.

That lawsuit didn't play well with some factions of the community. The Lincoln High newspaper called it "a breach of trust."

The reporter and parent asked for records of employees on paid leave, information that the district has released before. Reporter Beth Slovic at the Portland Tribune, who is being sued, has reported that the district put one worker on paid leave for years.

The lawsuit drew national scrutiny this past weekend when The Associated Press used the district as an example in a story about how governments have sued records requesters.

There are signs that the school board, which this summer picked up three new board members, wants change.

A $4 million contract with law firm Miller Nash Graham & Dunn, the district's longtime go-to defender, didn't sail through approval at last week's school board meeting. Instead, it was pulled last minute.

Brim-Edwards said she yanked the item because board members wanted to discuss it further.

School board member Mike Rosen has called for the district needed to take a hard look at its legal counsel, both internally and externally.

Kim Sordyl, the parent the district is suing, is a close ally of Richardson. She campaigned for him and he designated her to represent him as a non-voting member of the Oregon Board of Education.

Known for withering criticism of the district, Sordyl is a polarizing figure in the parent community, where she draws supporters and haters alike. Fear of her has become a force within the district. Attempts to quell her social media critiques haven't worked.

"I've been seeking audits of Portland Public Schools spending for a long time so I'm really happy to see he's going to take this on," she said Monday. Sordyl said she spoke to Richardson some time ago about an audit of the district, but it had been awhile since they had talked about the idea so she was "pleasantly surprised" by the news.

Richardson wrote in an Oregonian/OregonLive column in 2016 that he felt the state should dig into school districts.

"The Audits Division has the responsibility to 'follow the money' in our public schools," he wrote, going on to specifically call out Portland Public Schools as ripe for an audit.

Kip Memmott, the secretary's audits director, testified to a panel of lawmakers Monday that Portland Public Schools will undergo special scrutiny because it receives "the lion's share" of money doled out by the state Department of Education.

Portland schools receive less than 6 percent of the statewide pot of state tax revenues for K-12 schools.

The district's property-tax payers cover most of the school system's expenses. This school year, Portland Public Schools is receiving $230 million in state funding and paying most of its $600 million budget using local property taxes.

It's unusual for the secretary of state, a state-level executive branch official, to audit a school district, which is not a state agency. Richardson said he's unsure if such an audit has been completed before and added that he has full confidence his audits team has authority to evaluate Portland Public Schools' performance.

 Bethany Barnes and Gordon Friedman

Got a tip about Portland Public Schools? Email Bethany: bbarnes@oregonian.com

Reach Friedman at:

503-221-8209; @GordonRFriedman
Not every police agency provides a log of its responses, and few do it with the finesse of the Forest Grove Police Department. Every week, we post the goings on as provided by this community 25 miles west of Portland, not because it's earth-shatteringly important, but because it provides a glimpse into the world of modern small-town policing.

During the week, Forest Grove police officers were engaged in more than 579 incidents, both reported and self-initiated. These are some of the highlights.

September 8

* Officers assisted a woman whose wheelchair had become high centered on a path.

* Police intervened in a heated dispute between two drivers who were each angry at the other for use of a cell phone while driving. Officers advised both parties to not get into confrontations while behind the wheel; all parties went on their way without further incident.

* A caller asked police to help him block unwanted calls from his elderly grandmother.

September 9

* A mother called police after her son drove away from the house while allegedly drunk. Officers located the man, who was indeed intoxicated, at a business in town. He was cited for driving under the influence.

* A local hotel reported that a guest had broken some glass and was walking around the establishment in his undergarments and a bed sheet. While the hotel opted not to press charges, the individual was forbidden to return and took a cab out of town.

* Officers responded to a location where a 'gang fight' was reportedly underway. All parties denied any physical contact, but were advised the disorderly conduct statutes.

September 10

* A woman reported that her vehicle had been stolen while she was out partying the night before. Dayshift officers found the vehicle safe and sound near the location of the party.

* Officers responded to a fight between two men that escalated to a stabbing. Charges are pending further investigation.

* A woman reported that her son had slapped her and was threatening to cut his wrists. Police took the son for medical attention on a "Peace Officer Hold," an action that allows officers to take in individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others.

September 11

* A caller reported someone sleeping in a van parked in a residential area. Upon arrival, night shift officers located an individual acting suspiciously near the van, as well as a bicycle previously reported stolen.

* A secondhand store employee reported finding a small amount of marijuana inside a donated item.

* A woman reported that her roommate, also her landlord, had changed the locks on the front door and called her names. Police advised it was a civil matter.

September 12

* Night shift officers responded to the Fern Hill Wetlands where an individual reportedly started a large fire and fled. Officers were able to keep flames from spreading into the wetland area until the fire department arrived.

* Officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle that, again, simply turned out to be parked on a different street.

* Police broke up a fight between two men over one individual allegedly driving the other off the road.

September 13

* A caller reported seeing a man setting up a camp in a small wooded area near a busy road. Officers located a man playing fetch with his dog.

* Officers responded to a scene where a car had crashed into the side of a residence. While the damage was not extensive, the driver was cited for driving uninsured.

September 14

* A caller reported that two women had locked themselves in a laundromat bathroom for well over half an hour. The women told police they were waiting for their friends. They were advised to find another hangout location.
A heavily armed Hillsboro man who in April attacked his ex-girlfriend in their apartment, held a rifle to her chest, threatened to kill her and police if they responded, then later surrendered to SWAT team members was sentenced last week to five years in prison.

Travis Anctil, 28, pleaded guilty Thursday to menacing, coercion, unlawful use of a weapon and fourth-degree assault. The terms of his post-prison supervision

i

nclude no contact with the 28-year-old victim or her family, and participate in alcohol, domestic violence and mental health treatment programs. Judge D. Charles Bailey also recommended Anctil receive treatment while in prison.

Additional charges, iincluding attempted murder and strangulation, were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Court documents show Anctil was an active member of the Marines from 2008 to 2013 and deployed oversees twice. He received an honorable discharge in 2013. At the time of the attack, he had a concealed handgun license.

It's unclear from court documents what led to the April 5 attack.

According to a search warrant affidavit, the ex-girlfriend told Hillsboro police she and Anctil broke up in February after dating for four years. They still lived together in an apartment in the 2000 block of Northwest Thorncroft Drive but slept in separate bedrooms.

The woman reported Anctil barged into her bedroom about 4 a.m. while she was in bed and pulled her to the floor by her hair, the affidavit said. He went back to his room, took off his shirt, paced back and forth, grabbed his rifle and returned to her room, she said.

Anctil told the woman to get on her knees, then ordered her to lay down on her back while he was loading bullets into the rifle, the affidavit said. He pointed the rifle at her chest.

"I'm going to kill you," Anctil said repeatedly, according to the court documents.

The woman estimated he held the rifle to her chest for at least a minute as she begged him not to kill her. He took the rifle off her chest, then she ran to her closet, picked up shoes and her keys, then tried to retrieve her dog just outside her bedroom when Anctil grabbed her throat, the affidavit said.

Anctil shoved her against the wall and claimed he would kill her if she took the dog, the affidavit said. She grabbed a backpack and left. He warned her that if she contacted police, he would kill her and any responding officers, according to the court papers.

The woman reported Anctil's brother was in the apartment at the time, the brother called their sister, who called their mother, the affidavit said. The mother called the Washington County Crisis Line, saying her son "was suicidal and homicidal," the affidavit said.

The mother later told police she called the crisis line because she wanted her son to get help, wasn't sure how to handle the situation and was afraid Anctil would hurt his family if he found out the police were called, the affidavit said.

Police responded to the apartment about 11:30 a.m. Anctil came out about two hours later and walked toward members of the Washington County Tactical Negotiations Team.

After arresting Anctil, police found a loaded Glock pistol holstered in his waistband and a pistol holstered on each ankle. Three magazines for the guns were found in his pocket.

At least two rifles, a shotgun and dozens of firearm magazines and ammo were seized by authorities from inside the apartment.

-- Everton Bailey Jr.

ebailey@oregonian.com

503-221-8343; @EvertonBailey
What a terrible decision by President Trump to cut funding to the United Nations Population Fund. Consider that the world population has tripled since 1950 and Nigeria, for example, may see its population increase 20-fold between 1950 and 2100. The population fund helps women make choices about childbirth, offers contraceptive methods and provides needed health personnel in countries that need them the most. The dangers of overpopulation are real and by taking away $75 million from the fund, the Trump administration only exacerbates the problem.

Greg Jacob, Hillsboro
Other members of the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team involved in the stop of refuge occupation spokesman Robert "LaVoy'' Finicum testified before a federal grand jury that returned an indictment against their colleague, Agent W. Joseph Astarita.

Prosecutors have asked the court for permission to share transcripts of the agents' testimony with a nationally recognized ballistics and trajectory expert who they may call as a witness at trial.

Astarita is accused of firing two shots at Finicum or his truck and then lying about it. The shots didn't hurt Finicum. State police fatally shot Finicum a short time later. Finicum appeared to be reaching for a gun at the time, investigator said. He had a loaded gun in his inside jacket pocket, they said.

The government's case against Astarita rests on videos taken by an FBI airplane flying overhead and cellphone video from Shawna Cox, a passenger in Finicum's truck, as well as ballistics and trajectory evidence developed by the state police crime lab and the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, the prosecutors said in a recent court filing.

"The central issue in this case is whether defendant fired two rounds at Finicum or Finicum's truck then lied about doing so to both the FBI and to Oregon State Police detectives who were investigating Finicum's death,'' Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Sussman wrote in a motion seeking the grand jury transcript disclosure.

On Monday, U.S. District Judge Robert A. Jones granted the request. Prosecutors noted that their expert, who wasn't named in court papers, has agreed to abide by the court's protective order prohibiting sharing of the information.

"The expert needs all statements by witnesses to the shooting in order to properly conduct his trajectory analysis,'' Sussman wrote.

Astarita, who continues to work for the FBI in an administrative role, was indicted in late June and has pleaded not guilty to three counts of making a false statement and two counts of obstruction of justice.

He is accused of concealing from Oregon investigators that he fired his rifle and lying to three supervisory FBI agents about his shots.

Last month, one of Astarita's lawyers told a judge that no one reported that they saw or heard Astarita fire and no direct evidence existed linking any bullet or shell casing to Astarita's rifle. Prosecutors countered that the investigation was continuing and revealed for the first time that not only are shell casings from Astarita's alleged shots missing, but so are shell casings from some of the Oregon State Police shots fired at the Jan. 26, 2016, roadblock.

David Angeli, one of four criminal defense lawyers retained by Astarita, signaled that his client likely will challenge the forensic analysis and "modeling'' done by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, which was tasked with investigating the Finicum shooting.

In March 2016, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and FBI announced that an FBI agent was suspected of firing twice at Finicum and may have gotten help from four other FBI agents in covering up afterward. No other agent has been charged in the case.

-- Maxine Bernstein

mbernstein@oregonian.com

503-221-8212

@maxoregonian
Monday 18 September 2017 4:43pm

The University of Otago has topped every one of the latest key Government indicators measuring the educational performance of students at New Zealands universities.

Released today by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), the annual Educational Performance Indicators (EPIs) examine course and qualification completions, overall and first year retention rates and progression to higher levels of study. Having been top in all but one of the indicators last year, Otago has now completed a clean sweep by ranking first across all of the key measures.

Otago Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne welcomed the release of the latest indicators, which assess performance over the 2016, this being most recent complete academic year.

The University of Otago has always rated very highly in the TECs annual educational performance indicators, but to rank top in every one of those indicators is an unprecedented achievement. It is a stellar result for Otago, and highlights not only the excellence of our academic staff and teaching and learning environment that the University offers students, but also the commitment Otago students put into achieving to their full potential.

Otagos showing in the 2016 TEC performance measures:

Student progression rate to higher level study (96 per cent)

First-year retention rate (84 per cent)

Overall student retention (90 per cent)

Qualification completion rate (85 per cent)

Qualification completion rate - cohort-based (73 per cent)

Course completion rate (89 per cent)

The full results for universities can be viewed here:
The Mid-Michigan Section of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers is hosting its annual fall kick-off meeting from 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Oscars Bar & Grill, 140 E. Main St.

The group invites people to meet with colleagues and enjoy their fellowship, learn about the upcoming slate of evening talks and hear about local service opportunities such as STEM outreach.

MMAIChE's seminar topics for the upcoming year include chemical safety, big data analytics, life at a start-up versus the corporate gig, advanced manufacturing, the future of transportation and the chemical engineer's role in creating a sustainable society.

The meeting will feature live music by an all-chemical engineer saxophone quartet, appetizers and drinks while providing attendees the opportunity to meet a variety of chemical engineers and the 2017/2018 MMAIChE officers in a relaxed, casual setting.

MMAIChE was founded in 1952 to promote opportunities for chemical engineers and other chemical professionals in the Great Lakes Bay Region to work with the local community to improve the understanding of science and technology and their impact on society. The section provides a series of lectures during the year and has an active education outreach program. It also annually provides a scholarship for a high school student to attend the Summer Youth Program at Michigan Technological University. The section also provides a scholarship to study chemical engineering in college and gives demonstrations of science and technology to students in the local middle schools.

Visit http://bit.ly/1T91j8d for more information. The section also has a presence on Facebook and LinkedIn. To become a Mid-Michigan AIChE member, e-mail membership@mmaiche.org or see the "Join the Mid-Michigan Local Section" link on the website.
At the second annual "Stuff the Bus" event hosted by Garber Chevrolet in Midland to collect supplies for early childhood programs throughout the county, Dow Chemical Employees' Credit Union and its staff members donated hundreds of items to the cause.

The credit union itself purchased and donated about $1,000 worth of items -- 25 backpacks, seven insulated lunch bags and 56 membership-club-sized packages of nonperishable food. And DCECU's employees contributed more than 600 school supply items, including pencils, paper, glue, notebooks, erasers, crayons, markers, colored pencils, pocket folders, backpacks and more.

"I was thrilled to see how much the credit union and our employees contributed to this cause," said DCECU Consumer Centralized Lending Manager Juli Lacina, who helped coordinate the credit union's participation in the drive. "Thanks to the efforts of Garber and all the individuals and organizations who donated, a whole lot of local kids will have the supplies they need in their classrooms -- and the supplies they need at home to help reinforce their classroom learning -- during the upcoming year."

DCECU representatives delivered the collected items to Garber during the event, which was organized to benefit Midland County's Great Start Readiness Program, Head Start and Early Childhood Special Education -- programs offered by the Midland County Educational Service Agency in collaboration with many early childhood partners.

In all, the event collected 120 backpacks, more than 500 notebooks and hundreds of other school supplies to support 30 classrooms in seven locations, plus enough nonperishable food items for three different food pantries to each receive four to five large boxes full of food items.

"We are super grateful," said Great Start Readiness Program Lead Teacher Liz Moore. "DCECU has been one of the biggest donors to this event for both years. We appreciate it, and so do the kids."
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., has announced that he has cosponsored two bills to increase transparency in campaign finance and reduce the influence of special interests in Congressional elections.

The Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act would require outside groups that spend over $10,000 on election advertising, including super PACs, to disclose their donors and source of funding within 24 hours. Peters is also cosponsoring the Fair Elections Now Act which would establish citizen-funded elections to better strengthen small donors and grassroots voices. Peters previously cosponsored both bills in the 114th Congress.

"For too long, our campaign finance system has given big corporations the ability to spend millions of dollars on federal elections - silencing the voices of Michigan middle class families in the process," Peters said via email. "It should be Michiganders deciding who represents them, not corporations looking to buy influence. I'm proud to cosponsor these commonsense bills that will help increase transparency and give power back to the American people in our elections."

The disclosure report must include the sources of all donations of $10,000 or more that the organization received during that election cycle. The legislation additionally would direct the FEC and U.S. Department of Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to share information to identify and prevent foreign election spending. The DISCLOSE Act is supported by a number of campaign finance reform stakeholders, including Public Citizen, the federation of Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs), Brennan Center, League of Women Voters, People For the American Way and the Sunlight Foundation.

The Fair Elections Now Act amends the Federal Elections Campaign Act of 1971 to establish a voluntary method for financing Senate campaigns. The legislation would provide qualified candidates for Congress with grants, matching funds, and vouchers from the Fair Elections Fund - which would be established by the legislation - to replace campaign fundraising that largely relies on large donors and special interests. In return, participating candidates would agree to limit their campaign spending to the amounts raised from small dollar donors plus the amounts provided from the Fund.
Sen. Jim Stamas was honored as 2017 Legislator of the Year by the Michigan Library Association. Stamas was presented the award by MLA Executive Director Gail Madziar and Alpena County Library Director Eric Magness-Eubank in Alpena.

"Our libraries are a mainstay of our communities, and it is an honor to be involved with them," said Stamas, R-Midland. "I greatly appreciate this recognition by the Michigan Library Association, and I look forward to working with them to support our libraries."

Ron Meneghel, treasurer of the Alpena County Library Board of Trustees, and Tammy Thompson, secretary of the Alpena County Library Board of Trustees, were also on hand to present the award to Stamas.
This August, I met with constituents across mid and northern Michigan and enjoyed honest and thoughtful discussions with so many people in our community about the issues facing our country. I met with local leaders, non-profit organizations, small business owners, health care advocates and the local media. I also had the privilege of honoring our veterans and the bittersweet experience of seeing my daughter off to college.

During the month back in the district, I met with local organizations including Rotary clubs and chambers of commerce. I gave them an update on my work in Washington where I have successfully fought for funding the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. I am a member of the Appropriations Committee, which decides funding levels for government programs, and I was pleased that money to protect our Great Lakes was included in legislation passed by the House.

Of course, one of the big issues on the minds of the many families and small business owners I met with is tax reform. Working parents need help with child care and I have proposed my own legislation to make it easier for parents to pay for child care. It is my hope that a complete tax reform package will include relief for families and make our tax code simpler and fairer for all. Our tax code was last overhauled in 1986, more than 30 years ago. Just think of all the ways our lives have changed in more than three decades. It is long past time to revamp our tax code and make it easier for all of us to file our taxes without complicated rules and forms.

Health care, as always, is an important issue, and I met with advocates for cancer research funding. More than a million Americans are diagnosed with cancer every year and we passed a new law that ensures the National Institutes for Health will have billions in the search for cures for years to come.

There were many highlights this August, but two special moments came when I had the privilege of honoring veterans and presenting them with the service medals they earned. On Aug. 1, I presented medals to Stephen Kanachki and Michael Wilson who served our country in Korea and Antarctica, respectively. Then on Aug. 29, more than 50 people turned out for a special event in Mesick where I presented the Purple Heart to Wexford County native Ronnie Monroe. Ronnie was hit by shrapnel in Vietnam and never received his honor. It was wonderful to present it to him and share this special moment with his many family and friends.

It is an honor to represent you in Congress and if I can be of assistance to you with a federal agency please do not hesitate to contact my office in Midland at 989-631-2552. Thank you for reading.
Teens at Chestua Baptist Church in Madisonville get an opportunity to bless a homeless vet in need.

The Church: Chestua Baptist Church in Madisonville, Tennessee

The Challenge: Give teens an opportunity to help someone in need.

One Big Idea: Invite the church youth group to construct a tiny house for a homeless veteran.

When Chestua Baptist Churchs youth director, Clayton Taylor, met Willie Franklin, founder of the local nonprofit A Home 4 Heroes, Taylor became inspired. A Home 4 Heroes builds tiny houses for homeless and disabled veterans.

Taylor approached his 40-member youth group with the idea: Why couldnt Chestua Baptists youth assist the charity by taking on the construction of a tiny home? The teens agreed.

We felt led by God and believed he had given us an opportunity to help out some deserving people, Taylor says.

When Franklin heard their plan, he says he first doubted that the teens, who ranged in age from 13 to 19, could build a house. But after meeting with them, he changed his mind.

They had so much faith in God that I knew it would happen, Franklin says.

To fund the project, the youth group raised nearly $8,000 by living in boxes outside the church for 24 hours to experience what homelessness is like. Helping the cause, local lumber companies contributed materials.

From November 2016 through April 2017, the group constructed and painted the 12-by-24-foot house, which had hardwood floors, central heating and air conditioning.

Knowing why we were doing it and worshipping the Lord while doing it made the whole experience great, says Sarah Rayburn, age 16.

In May 2017, the church, which has approximately 125 attendees on Sundays, held a dedication service and presented the house to a homeless Vietnam veteran.

He was crying and was so blessed, says Savannah Raby, age 18. He just kept saying, Thank you.

Taylor says he believes more churches should reach out to local charities. Its about getting Gods name out and letting people know what a loving and gracious God we have.

CHESTUA BAPTIST CHURCH

Madisonville, Tennessee

Facebook.com/Chestua-Baptist-Church
We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription.
Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy
NORMAL  Illinois State University police are investigating alleged sexual assault and revenge porn cases where, in both instances, the people met on the social search app Tinder, and communicated via Snapchat, an image messaging and multimedia mobile app.

Although the two incidents are unrelated, both encounters started with Tinder, said ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff, who has issued a campus-wide crime advisory to address the issue.

While they're unrelated, the pattern of using Tinder is a safety concern, he told The Pantagraph.

The Tinder app facilitates communication between mutually interested users.

Woodruff said on Sept. 7, a student reported to ISU Police that a man she met on Tinder and communicated with via Snapchat attempted to extort her by threatening to share nude images of herself that she sent to him.

A week later, ISU Police were notified of the alleged sexual assault that occurred early in the morning of Sept. 13 in the 300 block of North School Street. The male student allegedly met the victim on Tinder and communicated with her via Snapchat, said police.

Woodruff said when Tinder was created, to some people, it was known as what I guess you'd call a hook-up app.  It's tried to change its image to a dating app.

Both incidents remain under investigation.

There have been no arrests in either case, but Woodruff said his office is working with the McLean County States Attorneys office on both cases.

He said Monday that the crime advisory is meant to serve as a reminder to students to be careful when using social media.

The problem seems to be if some interpret the meeting differently, he said, noting that the issue of consent comes into play.

"Make sure you have clear consent, he said.

Sexual assault is a significant concern at college campuses across the country, Woodruff said. The advisory included information and resources for students to help identify a potential dangerous situation.

Nationwide, it is estimated that 20 percent of women and 6 percent of men experience sexual assault or attempted sexual assault during their time in college.

In a study published by the Department of Justice, 82 percent of the victims were raped by someone they knew, and 18 percent were raped by a stranger.
BLOOMINGTON  Unlike their larger siblings, two Central Illinois airports have no choice but to rely on outside legal help.

"I would imagine no (Illinois) airport outside Chicago has an attorney in house, said Gene Olson, airport director at Peoria International Airport.

"Fiscal year 2016, we had legal expenses of $34,000. Theres no way you could hire an attorney for $34,000, said Carl Olson, executive director of Bloomington's Central Illinois Regional Airport, who is no relation to his Peoria counterpart. "This is a very cost-effective way for us to do business.

The government bodies running those airports, the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria (MAAP) and Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority (BNAA), spent very different amounts on legal services in the last few years, however.

BNAA spent $101,788 per year on average from fiscal year 2013 to 2016, versus MAAP's $33,341 on average over the same period.

BNAA's highest year was 2014, when it spent $159,660. In 2013, the total was $149,142; $64,169 in 2015; and $34,181 in 2016.

"We sued the Federal Aviation Administration and FAA administrator on the proposed closing of the air traffic control tower, which contributed to our victory and keeping the tower, said Carl Olson of the jump in costs.

The airport also spent more on legal counsel to draw up contracts for FedEx to operate air cargo service out of CIRA starting Feb. 1, 2015.

Counsel has also helped BNAA comply with FAA regulations and do bond issues for less than if the airport hired its own lawyer, said Olson.

"We operate the airport authority with a very small number of staff. This lets us engage special legal counsel as opposed to expecting one person to be jack of all trades, he said.

Gene Olson said his airport had a similar spike in costs when it started working on a new terminal building that opened in 2011. Its costs were $27,984 in 2013; $22,996 in 2014; $51,435 in 2015; and $30,952 in 2016.

"Legal fees are going to fluctuate depending on whats going on, he said. "Typically we have attorneys looking ... any time we do a lease or have personnel matters. Things like that can bump up your costs.

Attorneys also helped BNAA with contracts, finance, leases, personnel and federal and state compliance. MAAP used attorneys for construction, easements, environmental issues, financial audits, grant administration, land acquisition, leases, ordinances, personnel, service agreements and zoning.

BNAA paid outside counsel between $90 and $400 per hour. MAAP paid $100 to $500 per hour for outside counsel.

Both men said they believe using outside counsel exclusively dates back to the earliest days of their airports.

"It is much more cost-effective for us to use outside counsel than hiring a staff attorney, said Carl Olson. The numbers show that.
BLOOMINGTON  The Miller Park Zoo has lost an old friend.

Candy, at 33, the oldest Malayan sun bear in North America, has been euthanized, the zoo announced Monday afternoon.

The bear was born Feb. 14, 1984  Valentine's Day  at Zoo Miami, and her birthday was celebrated on that day every year she lived at Miller Park Zoo.

She will be missed by many, many people in the community, zoo Director Jay Tetzloff said in a statement. "She was here for almost 20 years so many guests knew her.

Recently, Candy was evaluated by animal care staff and a veterinarian from the University of Illinois for lethargy, said the zoo.

"Upon complete physical examination, it was determined that her condition was grave and the decision for humane euthanasia was made."

Samples taken immediately prior to the bear's death and initial findings indicate a preliminary diagnosis of renal failure. A full necropsy is being performed by the U of I; results will not be known for several weeks.

"I'm really sad to hear of her passing," said Ward 6 Alderman Karen Schmidt, who has been serving as mayor pro tem since Aug. 28 during Mayor Tari Renner's temporary leave of absence for medical-related reasons.

"She had a big and beautiful personality, and was an important part of our zoo," said Schmidt.

Tetzloff said Candy's passing was hard on the zoo's staff.

"Last Thursday was a sad day," he said. "We deal with it the best we can."

Candy and her mate, Chapin, arrived at the Miller Park Zoo in 1998, and like many other Sun Bears, they did not have any offspring, said the zoo.

The male bear died in 2010 from bone cancer at the age of nearly 27 years.

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the median life expectancy for a female Malayan Sun Bear is 23.1 years.

Candy was Miller Park Zoo's sole remaining sun bear, said Tetzloff.

The zoo does not plan to replace her with another sun bear because "there are very few sun bears left," he added.

Candy was housed in the Katthoefer Animal Building.

"She was pretty big for the building so we're probably going to change species after we lost her," said Tetzloff.
#suitcase murder suspect Justice minister orders extradition of 'suitcase' murder suspect to New Zealand South Korea's justice minister on Monday ordered the extradition of a woman believed to be the mother of two children whose bodies were found in suitcases in New Zealand in August,...

#KBO KBO sets salary cap for 1st time In an unprecedented move designed to ensure a level playing field, the top South Korean baseball league announced Monday it has set a salary cap for the next three seasons. The ...
CHICAGO (AP)  Illinois residents aren't the only ones throwing up their hands at the gridlock and increasingly polarized politics that have defined state government in recent years. More and more, fed-up and frustrated Illinois legislators are heading for the exits.

More than two-dozen legislators  about 15 percent of the General Assembly  have either resigned months into the current session or said they won't seek re-election. They are Democrats and Republicans, rank-and-file moderates and those in leadership posts, including House Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie, who said last week that she's ending her nearly 40-year legislative career when her term expires.

It's an exodus that longtime Statehouse observers say is unusual not just for the high number of lawmakers leaving, but for the reasons many legislators are giving: frustration with not being able to reach compromises, the stress of the two-year budget impasse that only recently ended, year-round campaigning and a public that's grown more hostile and vocal.

"There is a toxic environment. People seem to not be able to get along, even outside of the Capitol," said retiring Republican state Rep. Steve Andersson. "That's not a good environment, and that's not an environment I want to be a part of."

Andersson received hate mail and even a death threat after he and about a dozen other Republicans broke with GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner to support a deal to end the budget stalemate that included an income tax increase. He also lost his position as the GOP's House floor leader. A short time later, he announced he isn't running again.

Turnover in government isn't new. Nor are politics that many may find distasteful  particularly in Illinois. Several governors have gone to prison, and multiple public-opinion polls have found Illinois residents are especially distrustful of their government.

But what's happened in recent years has been different, as a standoff dragged on between Rauner  a multimillionaire former businessman  and longtime Democratic legislative leaders, namely House Speaker Michael Madigan.

With the two sides unable to agree on a budget, social service agencies and universities suffered, while the state racked up billions in unpaid bills. The 2016 legislative elections featured several bruising contests, including primary challenges bankrolled largely by Rauner and his wealthy friends, and labor unions determined to stop his anti-union agenda.

As the fights stretched into 2017, more and more lawmakers started issuing resignation letters.

Some are running for other offices  from water reclamation district commissioner to governor  though many say the job isn't fun anymore, said Mike Lawrence, who has worked in and around state government for 50 years.

"My sense is we've never seen anything quite like this," Lawrence said. "I worry it's becoming a trend."

Many of those calling it quits are Republicans like Andersson who helped Democrats override Rauner's veto of the budget deal. They have either grown weary or see a primary challenge coming from those angered by the tax hike.

In his resignation letter, GOP state Rep. Chad Hays said "dislike and distrust" between Rauner and Madigan "has paralyzed government in Illinois."

"Ego, money and power eclipse the desire of well-meaning and honest public servants," Hays wrote. "Blame, press conferences and talking points have replaced governing. Voices of moderation and reason are increasingly being elbowed out by well financed fringe elements."

Democrats, too, say they've been worn down. State Rep. Elaine Nekritz, who is voluntarily ending her 14-year legislative career, said she cried multiple times while talking to constituents hurt by the budget crisis.

State Rep. Carol Sente said solving problems became tougher to do as the dynamics of the General Assembly changed, with more legislators from the far right or left. Many lawmakers blame this on gerrymandering, in which political districts are drawn up to be safely Democratic or Republican.

Sente also tired of the constant campaigning.

"For those of us in competitive districts with races every two years, to spend five solid months every other year campaigning, working your butt off and eating drive-through meals, once you win that battle, you want to make a difference, to legislate, compromise and fix problems," Sente said.

"The impasse and the partisanship are cumulative and it adds up. So over time, I think there is a threshold for everyone when they say, 'I need a break or I'm done.'"
Its been a rough year here in Dandelionlady territory. Lots of upheaval both personally and politically. Theres still room for joy and happiness though. There has to be.

In the Lithuanian tradition the Solstice is celebrated over two days, called Kucios and Kaleda. Kucios is when the family gathers and shares a sacred meal that honors the ancestors, including special dishes like the grain dish kucia. I make mine with buckwheat, poppy seeds and honey because my family doesnt digest wheat well. Its an awful lot like I imagine nordic Mothers Night celebrations might have been. Though we know that the ancient Norse celebrated Mothers Night we dont actually know what they did. These days, Kucios usually celebrated on December 24th, but as a pagan I just move it up to to solstice night quite nicely, especially since the next day is Kaleda!

Kaleda is the celebration of the returning sun, which works really really well on the solstice, rather than Christmas day. The image I made above is a blending of Baltic and Norse traditions. Ive used the Anglo-Saxon runes to spell out Blessed Yule along the side. The image of the sacred reindeer of the sun from the Baltic and Finnish stories is the central motif, with the sun, moon and morning and evening star in the border. The star motif is often found in quilt and knitting patterns, and represents the dawn and dusk.

I hope that you all have a merry holiday, however you celebrate it, and take time to rejoice in the people who are nearest and dearest to you as we move into the long dark winter.

My work as a Clergy and as a spiritual artist takes a lot of time and effort! A small donation can get you cool things (like a print of the image above) and make a big difference in my life, which in turn can make a big difference in the lives of my congregation and our community. Take a moment and give the gift of support this year.
John Cavanaugh OKeefes words will be in blue. Patti Sheffields words will be in green. They are both Catholics.

*****

[replying to the article I shared, which reported that a wall in Hungary reduced illegal immigration by over 99 per cent] Which refugees did Hungary exclude? Where are they now? What is Hungary doing to help them? And have you read Matthew 25?

I have no idea. Ive read the whole Bible. My view on refugees and legal immigration (which is a different thing from illegal immigrants) has been made clear, several times. Most recently I opined that the Dreamers should be allowed to stay. Readers may wish to learn about my views on social justice in general, as well.

Tell me if I am wrong. The Church reaches that there is an inalienable right to migrate. And that nations have a right and even a duty to controltheir borders. And these two rights must be balanced justly.

But you have quoted several passages affirming the second item. You include the first, barely. And the third seems to have disappeared.

Is it possible to balance two rights while displaying total disregard for the claims of one party?

Im all for legal migration and helping innocent refugees. And Im for a nations right and even a duty to control their borders. The Church speaks to both things (as you just affirmed above). It seems, then, that we agree, so wheres the beef?

I didnt intend to write a doctoral dissertation with this link. I was simply noting that the wall in Hungary has been 99% effective. It would be here, too. Liberals say they agree with a nation monitoring its borders, but when it comes time to actually do something about that, they retreat every time. Theres no balance there at all.

A more conservative position like my own, is, I would contend, perfectly in line with the Church, whereas Catholic liberals almost totally ignore the enforcement of border and immigration laws aspects.

Let me try again, if you would be so kind. But perhaps while we figure each other out, it might be best to go one question at a time.

So I have questions pending, and so do you. I suggest we focus, rather than sprawl.

So lets try this. You ask one, and answer one. Ill state my understanding of your assertion, answer your question, and ask one question.

Would that work for you?

Yes, that works, as it is actual dialogue. Thanks. Perhaps my last comment can kick things off in this vein.

Thanks, Dave.

[435 words, more than I wanted. grump.]

You said, if I understood: We have agreed that Church teaching has three key elements. You noted that some people, whom you identified as liberals, ignore the right/duty to control borders. But you said that you and I agree that want a policy that is consonant with the Churchs teaching. If I misunderstood, please let me know.

You asked: so whats the beef?

The problem with your position, as I understand it, is that you agree theres a right to migrate, but then persist in treating that right as a privilege.

No; one must differentiate between a right to migrate and the right to citizenship; also between legal and illegal migration. No one has an inherent right to violate another countrys laws. Romans 13 (since were quoting Scripture) says that the government functions as an agent of God. Laws mean something. Some are unjust, true (like Roe v. Wade), but we must overturn them through due process of law (and that includes also the civil disobedience that you and I have both been part of). We dont just thumb our noses at the law and systematically break it (illegal immigration / sanctuary cities, etc.), and encourage many thousands of others to do so as well.

That is, you are content to think about how to craft a just law without reference to the claims of the migrants. You agree they have right  and then respond to that right by permitting some immigration.

Im permitting legal immigration. To make an analogy: the illegal immigrant is the one who breaks into your house (your front door and its lock being the analogy to border security) and then demands not only that he is able to stay in your house, but to do so indefinitely, whatever you may think of it, including the demand that you provide for all his needs, and that of his or her family as well!

The legal immigrant is the one who knocks on your door, asks if it is okay if he or she can stay with you and get some food, etc., until they can get on their feet financially. If you say no, they accept that graciously and move on.

The refugee may (and usually does) have perfectly just reason and cause to migrate, but they also make a choice to go about it legally or illegally. My father was a legal immigrant. He was born and raised in Ontario, Canada.

America loves immigrants. Its a fundamental part of our heritage. I love the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as much as you or any other liberal who ever lived. We as Americans dont (historically) go back that far. We all come from somewhere else, if we trace our ancestors back to 400 years or more (in most cases, far fewer years). Mine are from the UK and Ireland: some via Canada first. My wife has ancestors from France, Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. That blood is in my children. I love different world cultures. Im proud that we value such cultural diversity in America.

But I dont see a hint of how you would weigh their rights. I dont see any room for considering what claims they make, or why they are moving, or how to prioritize, or anything about them  except an agreement that we should let some of them in. That approach sounds more like almsgiving than justice.

Thats because you havent read what I have already written about it. I provided you the links. In my Social Justice paper above I cited earlier comments of mine about refugees, from two years ago:

Bring the refugees in by the multiple thousands . . . but they must be vetted, just as immigrants have always been. . . . If people think vetting and checking documentation is so terrible, why dont they also go after Ellis Island and the old (highly idealized) days of mass immigration, where this was always done? Everyone can cite stories of their ancestors coming through Ellis Island (some of mine came through Canada, just a few miles from where I sit, where my dad was from). What we never hear about, however, are how many were refused entrance. It was relatively few, but of course, this is what we are saying now: only a few should be disallowed. Of 12 million who came through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954, about 2% were deemed unfit and now allowed into the country. You know how many people that is? 240,000 (about the population of Madison, Wisconsin). . . . We can still be humanitarian, by offering resources for food and shelter (as we always have), while we figure out a sensible solution to the refugee crisis. We can put these poor people up in some halfway decent facilities, paid for by our generosity, if needs be; proceed to methodically check out their backgrounds, and if they are fine, let them come here. This is not an either/or situation. Its not totally uncontrolled [including illegal] immigration vs evil nativist conservative bigots and fear-mongers who oppose all immigration, legal or illegal. That is not the case. Most of us who have legitimate concerns are quite as compassionate as the bleeding-heart liberals. . . . There is a sensible middle here on the refugee crisis, that is quite consistent with Catholic teaching and traditional (and singular) American compassion and willingness to take in the huddled masses, and also legitimate vigilance in order to avoid terrorist tragedies in America.

After this, I added the provocative challenge: Does that sound like I hate all immigrants: as the outrageous stereotype of President Trump and his supporters goes?

Without some notion of how to understand and weigh the claims of the second party in this search for justice, I dont know how to move on to a search for a balanced approach. To clarify that: I dont think it makes sense to talk about a border policy without some understanding of recent history in Mexico and Honduras and El Salvador, etc. We dont need a complete and total understanding of every riot in Tegucigalpa, but we need enough to understand the claims put forward by an immigrant. That is, some immigrants are in fact refugees, or are close to being refugees  leaving behind violence and extreme poverty. Let me exaggerate for clarity: theres a difference between a dozen people leaving a factory where the boss is a jerk, and a million people leaving a region controlled by drug lords. These are different claims.

I agree wholeheartedly. I wrote, after all: Bring the refugees in by the multiple thousands. All Im saying is let that be a legal process, not an illegal one, and let everyone be properly vetted, just as they would be, for example, in applying for any important job, where character is a prime factor. You give lip service to border security. Id like to see you wholeheartedly acknowledge that it is absolutely required, just as I agree with you about the plight of poor exploited, desperate refugees.

Without a clear approach to the rights of migrants, I dont see how to move on to balancing those rights against legitimate American claims.

I agree again. But both sides have to be willing to accept legitimate arguments form the other side. We dont seem to be able to talk about anything intelligently, anymore, by way of social or governmental policy, because everything is now so polemicized, politicized, and polarized. We need to get past that, and yesterday.

My question: in Matthew 25:35, Jesus talks about welcoming strangers. Are immigrants strangers in the meaning of that text?

Here it is (RSV): for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me,

I need only go back to my analogy of the person breaking into your house. If Jesus was an open borders and illegal immigrant advocate, the verse would have to be re-written as follows:

for I was hungry and broke into your house and demanded that you give me food, I was thirsty and broke into your house and demanded that you give me drink, I was a stranger and forced my way into your house against your will and you welcomed me, because you were compelled to by no one enforcing the laws regarding illegal entry onto private property in your nation.

Thats obviously not what Jesus said or meant. He was talking about voluntarily helping the poor and destitute. Ive done that on an individual level, as I talked about in my Social Justice paper. We have helped a homeless person who was a friend of my sons. My three sons have done much charitable missionary work. We had a heroin addict with a criminal record renting our old house and we did everything under the sun to help her. She wound up stealing three months rent and taking us for $2000. Now her responsibility (shes actually straightening out her life now) is to pay restitution: to restore the money she stole from us.

You wanna talk Bible? That is quite biblical, as is the command to not steal from others. Its not all one-way. Both parties have responsibilities and rights. The illegal immigrant is essentially stealing and manipulating the collective good heart of the American people. We want to help; were generous (the whole world knows this, which is why they flock to come here: legally and illegally), but that does not extend to deliberate lawbreakers, breaking into our house (i.e., our border).

Procedurally, Dave: its fine with me if you deal with clarity about your last assertion or re-stating my claim and responding or responding to the question about Matthew 25. I dont mean to shift the topic totally; the question about Matthew 25 is real, not rhetorical; I understand it as a question about the urgency of weighing an immigrants rights carefully.

Ive done my best, according to my usual way of dialoguing. I have directly replied point-by-point to you. That seems to me to be the main way anything is constructively accomplished in a discussion where two people disagree.

Matthew 25:35 is directed at individuals, not nations. Read it in its context and its clear that people as individuals are being judged in the Last Judgment in a particular way for how they lived or didnt live the Gospel message entrusted to them. The way to transform nations is for individuals to transform and then they will transform their societies and make them more just.

Hi, Patti. Thanks for your clear assertion.

It seems to me that our tradition includes at least four different approaches to the matter of how to welcome strangers. They do not exclude each other; they are complementary. But there are four approaches, not just one.

First, Moses taught that the nation of Israel was supposed to welcome strangers. Welcome strangers, because  remember!  you too were once a stranger in a strange land. This command was addressed to individuals, but mostly to the nation. The nation of Egypt mistreated the nation of Israel, and so God intervened on behalf of his people (a collective), and punished the Egyptians (a collective). The Prophets warned the Hebrew people (collectively) that they had to avoid idolatry and do justice and care for strangers, or be punished. The nation failed, so Israel went into exile in Babylon.

Second, as you point out, Jesus described the judgment of individuals, commanding that we feed the hungry and clothe the naked and welcome strangers. It seems clear  to you and to me both  that Jesus was talking to individuals about individual responsibility. So it would make sense, if we stopped right there, to say that the command of Jesus superseded the command of Moses and the Prophets.

But then theres a third. In the life of the Church for 12-15 centuries, the Church embraced what Moses taught (national responsibility) and what Jesus taught (personal responsibility), but developed a third response. The six precepts of the Lord describing the Last Judgment were indeed understood to be serious and binding  but it was the Church as a whole that fulfilled the commands. In general, the monks or parish priests fed the hungry and welcomed strangers  and the laity supported the clergy in their work. Its simply not possible that the Church misinterpreted the words of Jesus badly for centuries. Their approach to hospitality was an obedient response to the teaching of Moses and Jesus.

I think its critical to see this third approach, because then you can see a fourth without feeling that you are somehow walking away from Jesus.

Since the time of Pope Leo XIII at least, the Church has taught that there are some problems that are global, and that demand a global response. These problems include the challenge of the Industrial Revolution, which threatened (still threatens) to reduce human workers to the status of replaceable cogs in a machine; the Church supports the right of workers to organize and strike. Other global problems are plague and drought, which dont notice national boundaries. And for a century, the Church has taught that migration is among the new challenges of our time. And the Catholic Church (among others) has called firmly and repeatedly for a global response to this global challenge. The Catholic Church, in the modern world, has made a commitment to work with all people of goodwill to serve the needs of all people  a community response to a community problem, a global response to a global problem.

For a century, the Catholic Church has understood the words of the Lord about welcoming strangers to include a call to all people of goodwill to serve all migrants.

I dont disagree with anything in your response to Patti, so I need not respond, except to reiterate the crucial distinction between legal and illegal immigration. Were not obliged (morally or legally) to help anyone who wantonly disobeys our laws. We willingly help innocent refugees and those who go through proper legal immigration processes.

The present discussion on DACA presupposes these same premises. Its said that its not the Dreamers fault that they are here, so we shouldnt deport them. I agree! But the converse to that is, if there is legal fault, that we have no such obligation. We may still decide to help anyway, but were not morally obligated to.

We may also choose to help refugees or destitute would-be immigrants where they are rather than necessarily taking them in, if there are any legitimate impediments. It was proposed, for example, to create a guarded zone in Syria where refugees there could be helped and provided with all kinds of needs.

They dont have to all come to America. Thats not the only solution to every problem in the world. If the world would better emulate our government system and way of life, they wouldnt have to come here, because where they are would be a good place to live, too. People are the same everywhere.

Its been pointed out that Vatican City is surrounded by a wall. There is such a thing as the Swiss Guards, too. Are they there for nothing? Can anyone just climb the wall or find sneaky ways to bribe or bypass the Swiss Guards, to get in?

No, of course not. But when it comes to our borders, all of a sudden, common sense and biblical sense fly out the window.

I found some very interesting comments on ancient Israel and illegal immigration on a Protestant site, in an article entitled, What the Bible Says About Our Illegal Immigration Problem (Ralph Drollinger, 9-27-16; italics added for Hebrew words):

In numerous OT passages the student of Scripture learns that the God of Israel distinguished among three types of people in the land; . . . An Israelite citizen is referred to as a countryman (ach) in Scripture, whereas a legal immigrant is referred to as a sojourner (ger) or toshab, and a foreigner is called an illegal (nokri) or zar. Important to this study, and evident from the OT, is that an illegal did not possess the same benefits or privileges as a sojourner or countryman. This fact can be illustrated from many passages. Notice for instance the words of Ruth the Moabite, and her response to Boaz the Israelite in Ruth 2:10: Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground and said to him, Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner? Not only was Ruth a foreigner (nokri), an illegal immigrant, she was a Moabite illegal, who according to Deuteronomy 23:3 was forbidden to migrate into Israel altogether! For Citizen Boaz to entertain Ruth at all was remarkably generous and gracious, and possibly even against the law of the land. (Perhaps Boaz already had in mind legitimizing her status by marriage.) The point is that Ruths self-declaration serves to underscore the classification of people in and by ancient Israel. Furthermore, a citizen/countryman was expressly forbidden to take advantage of or mistreat a legal immigrant, known as a sojourner, per Exodus 22:21 and Deuteronomy 10:19 respectively: You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt (ESV). Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt (ESV). In forming an immigration theology, a sojourner could be likened to a legal immigrant and a foreigner could be likened to an illegal immigrant today. Note Hoffmeier, a biblical expert on this subject: A sojourner (sometimes translated as stranger) was a person who entered Israel and followed legal procedures to obtain recognized standing as a resident alien. Hoffmeier goes on to say, that on the other hand, Israel treated illegal immigrants differently: Illegal immigrants should not expect these same privileges from the state whose laws they disregard by virtue of their undocumented status. These standard categories of ones standing in a given nation, and the differentiation between citizens, immigrants and foreigners are representative of the will of God.

Here are similar thoughts from another article: A Biblical Perspective on Immigration Policy (James R. Edwards, Jr., 9-16-09):

Old Testament Principles. Even the passages of Scripture most often cited by religious advocates of mass immigration and amnesty plainly do not argue for open borders. Rather, these writings generally reflect equal justice under law principles. Consider Leviticus 19:33-34: When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. Similarly reads Exodus 22:21: You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. Dr. Stephen Steinlight has noted that the Hebrew term for sojourn means temporary stay.5 A related term used in some scriptural translations is stranger. One Bible dictionary says, This word generally denotes a person from a foreign land residing in Palestine. Such persons enjoyed many privileges in common with the Jews, but still were separate from them. The relation of the Jews to strangers was regulated by special laws (Deut. 23:3; 24:14-21; 25:5; 26:10-13).6 This Bible dictionary defines two classes of aliens: 1) those who were temporary visitors, who owned no landed property; and 2) those who held permanent residence without becoming citizens (Lev. 22:10; Ps. 19:12). Both of these classes were to enjoy, under certain conditions, the same rights as other citizens (Lev. 19:33, 34; Deut. 10:19).7 Again, those rights amounted to equal standing under the law, or having the benefit of the rule of law. Therefore, it is biblically inaccurate to incorporate, automatically and dogmatically, permanent immigration into every such term. Nor is it reasonable to jump to the conclusions many on the open borders side do about related passages. These activists claim that such passages mandate that a society welcome any and all foreigners presenting themselves. No such passages state or imply overlooking illegality committed on the part of the alien in his entry. Nor is there any requirement of unlimited or uncontrolled admittance of those who are members of another nation or society. Assertions like those are, at a minimum, a wrong reading. Such verses actually indicate nothing about the grounds for alien admission to ancient Israel. In fact, as Steinlight and others have noted, a fair reading of the relevant Old Testament passages makes clear that foreign residents were to comply with Israelite laws, such as Sabbath observance (e.g., Deut. 16:9-15). Furthermore, the law God laid down for Israel allowed legal distinctions to be drawn between native Jews and resident aliens. For instance, Deuteronomy 15 commands the remission of the debts of fellow Israelites every seven years, but [o]f a foreigner you may exact his debts (v. 3). A chapter before, Hebrews receive permission to sell or give foreigners uncleanfood (see Deut. 14:21). Another theme stands out in the Bible. God regards borders as meaningful and important (see, for instance, Prov. 22:28 and Prov. 23:10-11). Consider Deuteronomy 32:8: When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God. Ezekiel 47:13-23 details the Promised Lands boundaries. Numbers 34:1-15 describes the borders the Lord established for each tribe of Israel. Deuteronomy 19:14 commands against moving a neighboring tribes boundary stone marking a given tribe of Israels inheritance in the Promised Land. Another example appears three months after the Israelites left Egypt. The base of Mount Sinai was made off-limits (see Exodus 19:12ff), under penalty of death, until the people had been consecrated. Resident aliens who had children and settled in Israel (largely because of Israels failure to complete the mandate to remove them) were allowed private property in Israel (Ezek. 47:21-23). However, numerous times Israelites are warned against letting the aliens pagan practices corrupt God-given moral standards. [ . . . ] In short, the Old Testament teaches fair treatment of resident foreigners, with certain requirements of the aliens related to religious and civil legal standards. It also instructs that aliens were to assimilate to the Hebrew culture. Boundaries are meaningful, as well, and foreign presence among the Hebrews on several occasions was a curse. Few details of immigration procedures, standards, or other policy prescriptions appear. To infer some open-borders or mass-amnesty mandate from what actually appears in Scripture is wrong.

See also:

Stranger and Sojourner (in the Old Testament) (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Online)

Theft and Thieves in the Bible (Naves Topical Bible Concordance Online)

***

Photo credit: Parable of the Good Samaritan (1670), by Jan Wijnants (1632-1684) [public domain / Wikimedia Commons]
Thirty-six years ago yesterday, December 2nd, 1980, and only a few months after the murder of Archbishop Romero, four American women were raped and murdered by members of the National Guard of El Salvador.

Jean Donovan, a lay missionary from the Diocese of Cleveland, and Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel picked up from the airport two Maryknoll religious, Sister Maura Clarke and Sister Ita Ford, who were arriving from a conference in Nicaragua. Due to their work with the poor and forgotten members of society, the National Guard had placed these women under surveillance.

Five members of the National Guard who had been watching the women at the airport stopped their van soon after the women left the airport. The men were not in uniform, and an order to execute these women had come from above. That same night, peasants down a desolate road reported hearing machine gun fire and saw a van speeding away from the place. When they approached, the villagers found the bodies of four women who had been raped and shot. The following morning, local authorities had the women buried in a common grave and the local parish priest who lived in a nearby city was notified.

On the right, blocks mark the tomb where the women were buried

Desolate road where the women were raped and murdered

The priest, Father Paul Schindler, had been anxiously waiting for Jean and Sister Dorothy the morning of December 3rd. Both women worked directly with him at the parish in the coastal city of La Libertad. He assumed they had been delayed and spent the night with the Maryknoll Sisters. After hearing about the four executed women, Father Schindler immediately notified the U.S. Ambassador Robert White, who along with the priest, traveled to the desolate road where the women had been buried. Father Schindler identified the bodies of the four American women.

Father Schindler (in red) celebrates Mass three years ago at the chapel built where the four women were found

Father Tom Peyton and me after celebrating Mass with Father Schindler at the site where the four American church women were executed

Months later, Ambassador White was dismissed by the State Department from his post after he refused the order to cover up the Salvadoran militarys responsibility for the murder of these four women. He was not only dismissed as ambassador, but this marked the end of his diplomatic career. The murder of these four women put into question the unrestricted support of the Salvadoran government by the United States. Though questioned, the support continued for many more years. In a desperate attempt to make sense of the killings in 1980, the U.S. Secretary of State ridiculously suggested that the women may have been shot because they had run a military roadblock.

Today, a small and humble chapel stands where the four women were brutally murdered. A desolate, dirt road still leads to the site where the heinous act took place. How could this happen? Maria Luisa dAubuisson de Martinez, the sister of the man who allegedly ordered the execution of Archbishop Romero, provides some insight in an interview conducted days before Archbishop Romeros beatification in San Salvador.

When speaking of her brother Roberto dAubuisson, she states that, for them [the military], communism was social work in communities, the promotion of base organizations to improve neighborhoods, cooperatives social advancement. All this was suspicious, it was dangerous and monitored. Archbishop Romero, the six priests killed while he was archbishop, the four Maryknoll religious [her mistake, only two were Maryknoll], the six Jesuits, two hundred catechists, thousands of thousands of the disappeared, all these people fell into this [category] that they were dangerous, too close to the people who may be subversive, who may organize. These people had to be monitored and cleansed.' Watch the whole interview in Spanish here.

Unfortunately for these women, their ministry came to an early end, but their courageous Christian witness will endure. They may not have been declared martyrs as Archbishop Romero and Father Stanley Rother, but these four women certainly are martyrs of the faith.

Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

Preparing for Mass at the chapel in 2013

Parish in La Libertad where Jean Donovan and Sister Dorothy Kazel worked. Father Schindler, a priest from Cleveland, is still the pastor.

At the local parish, dedication plaque of a cross to Dorothy Kazel and Jean Donovan who gave up their lives in the service of their brothers of the Church in El Salvador.

Pictures are mine, all rights reserved.
At a recent meeting of the Association of Classical Christian Schools, controversial pastor, blogger, and religious leader Doug Wilson said the following:

When it comes to the LGBT/QRS foolishness, you must have titanium spines. The world will come to you and demand that you muddle up your binary bathroom situation. In vain you will explain to them that you can only have two bathroom signsXX and XYbecause your bathrooms are at the far end of the science wing. The reporter will come right back at youbut what about that transgender student enrolled there at Classical Christian High? To which you will request the name of said student, so that you can promptly expel his ass.

Wilson was approached after the talk by an individual who viewed his words as a calloused dismissal of a student struggling with his sexuality. In other words, expel his ass seemed a bit harsh, and not at all the Christian response. Whats interesting is what Wilsons response reveals about how he approaches gay and transgender studentsand his view of sexual deviance:

I was not talking about a quiet and diligent student who confessed to the Bible teacher in the course of a counseling session that he struggles with same sex attraction. What do you do there? The answer is as obvious as the love of Christ is. You pray with and for him, you meet with him, you work with him, you help him establish his walk with God, and so on. Not only am I acknowledging that this is the right thing to do in the abstract, this is in fact something I have done on numerous occasions. If you are ever foolish enough to google my name, you will find a pile of sludge. And one of the principal charges against me is that I minister to sexually disreputable people. I know, it is a strange, strange world.

To understand what Wilson did here, you have to understand the nature of the pile of sludge Wilson refers to. In providing evidence that he believes in counseling gay and transgender individuals, Wilson writes that one of the principal charges against me is that I minister to sexually disreputable people.

What is this charge against Wilson? I can tell you. The charge is that he urged a judge to go easy on a confessed serial child molester who happened to be a student at the seminary Wilson runs. Wilson later married this convicted pedophile to a woman in his church, and asked God to bless the couple with children. You can read a summary of this situation here.

Theres another charge, too. Namely, that when it came out that a seminary student boarding with a family in Wilsons congregation had sexually abused their young daughter beginning when she was only thirteen years old, Wilson painted years of grooming and horrific abuse as consensual (calling it a relationship), placed equal blame on the girls father for not protecting her, and wrote to the judge in the case to beg leniency for the accused. You can read a summary of this situation here.

This is the pile of sludge Wilson says you will find if you google his name, and this is what Wilson refers to when he writes that one of the principal charges against me is that I minister to sexually disreputable people.

Wilson responds to concern (based on his own words) that he would expel LGBTQ students rather than counseling and guiding them by stating that this sort of counseling is something he already has done on numerous occasions, and as evidence of this noting that one of the principal charges against him by his detractors is that he ministers to sexually disreputable people.

Let that sink in for a moment. In linking how he would respond to gay or transgender students with how he has already responded to child molesters and sexual predators, Wilson puts these very different groups under the same umbrellasexually disreputable people. The sad thing is that I am not surprised. This linking of both consensual and nonconsensual sexual deviance or immorality is far too common in conservative evangelical and fundamentalist churches.

At this point some of my readers may be thinking about my Tale of Two Boxes construction, which I introduced in a blog post five years ago. This construction is just as relevant today as it was then.

For individuals like Wilson, any sexual activity other than marital sex is immoral and deviant. This places same sex attractions in the same category as pedophelia and sexual predationboth involve sexual disorder, and individuals who struggle with each are in need of counseling and guidance. Progressives, in contrast, tend to use consent their guiding principal.

In his response, Wilson seems almost confused as to why his critics object to his ministering to sex offenders when they excuse same sex attractions and other categories of sexual deviance. I know, it is a strange, strange world, he writes, as though he has laid bare some sort of hypocrisy.

The scary thing is that Im not sure whether Wilson is being slightly trollish herethis is Wilson, after allor whether he genuinely does not understand why his critics object to his actions. Let that one sit with you for a while.
Chennai: Senior Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and Member of Parliament from Araria Mohammed Taslimuddin passed away at the Apollo Hospital in Chennai on Sunday afternoon after a brief illness at the age of 74.

Taslimuddin was brought to the Chennai hospital after developing breathing problem while also showing sign of tuberculosis, sources said adding he was put on ventilator a few days ago but his condition continued to deteriorate ultimately leading to his death on Sunday.

His last rites will be performed with full state honors at Jokihat in Araria district on Tuesday.

RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav and other party leaders expressed their condolence to the surviving members of Taslimuddin's family.

Janata Dal  U leader and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was recently the target of Taslimuddin's ire during the entire Tejaswi Yadav corruption brouhaha, issued boilerplate condolence to the Taslimuddin's family saying the RJD leader was a great social worker and his death was a huge loss for Bihar.

Party leaders said Taslimuddin's body would be brought by cargo air from Chennai to Bagdogra near Siliguri in West Bengal after which his body would be brought to Araria via Kishanganj and Purnia by road.

It may be recalled that Taslimuddin was never in Nitish Kumar camp even after the latter dumped the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2013 and join hand with the RJD. On more than one occasion, he criticized Kumar calling him a hypocrite who only talked about corruption but was intentionally looking the other way as his government immersed in all sorts of corrupt practices.

On July 24 this year, the Araria MP had said that the talk about Nitish being against corruption was a complete fabrication because the Chief Minister was not exactly 'as clean as he professed to be'.

"Nitish Kumar koi doodh ke dhule hue nahin hain. In the day time, he associates with the RJD leaders but after dark sets in, he hobnobs with the BJP. Moreover, the Chief Minister talked about 'Zero Tolerance' about crime but corruption of all kinds including bribery was rampant in government offices in Bihar," he had said much to the embarrassment of his own party leaders.
Females outnumber males by 13% in Iran's 2017 university admissions

09/17/17

Source: Tehran Times

TEHRAN -As the final results for the Iranian university entrance exam, also known as Konkur, was announced on Saturday, it was revealed that females outnumber males in gaining admission to higher education by 49,062, or 13 percent higher than males. Out of 378,706 participants who were admitted to the universities nationwide 213,884 (56.5%) are females and 164,822 (43.5%) are males, YJC quoted Hossein Tavakkoli, an official with Sanjesh Organization which is in charge of holding the university entrance exam, as saying.





Female graduates of College of Engineering at Tehran University

(March 2016 file photo)



This year some 930,208 individuals including 548,434 females and 381,774 males took part in the exams. Students in the three main groups of mathematical sciences, experimental sciences, and human sciences and two other groups of arts and foreign languages compete against one another for the best result possible as their future is mostly determined by how they perform at the exam.



While by comparing the figures pertaining to the number of females and males taking part at the exam over the past two years, female participants usually outnumber the male both in sitting the exam and gaining admission to the universities more males would often manage to be among the top 10 scorers in three main groups of mathematical sciences, experimental sciences, and human sciences.





Female students at Tehran University



The fierce contest which normally engage students since they start high school is one of the major scientific competition in the country. Many students and their parents spend four years of their resources and energies on getting ready for the university entrance exam.

Despite the fact that universities have grown in number considerably over the past two decades still the cut-throat competition heats up every year as the number of seats at the top public universities are limited.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Mogherini Calls Iran Nuclear Deal 'Good', Robust'

09/18/17

Source: Tehran Times

European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has said that the Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, is a "good" and "robust" agreement. "The Iran deal is a good and robust agreement that serves the interests of all parties," she said in a statement to NBC News. "It is not an agreement between two countries - it is a commitment undertaken by the entire international community on one side and Iran on the other, supported by a resolution of the UN Security Council," she said.



European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherin in Tehran

(August 2017 file photo by ISNA)



Iran, the European Union, Germany and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council including the U.S. signed the nuclear deal on July 14, 2015.



On July 20, 2015, the UN Security Council turned the JCPOA into international law by endorsing a resolution, setting the stage for the lifting of the Security Council sanctions against Iran.



The nuclear agreement went into effect in January 2016.



source: Iranian daily Kaenat

On September 5, U.S. ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley laid out a case for President Donald Trump to step back from the nuclear deal, arguing that Iran's technical compliance alone isn't enough for the U.S. to stick with the pact.



Trump levelled sharp criticism at the agreement many a time during his election race calling it "the worst deal ever". On Thursday Trump again ramped up its rhetoric on the nuclear agreement, saying, "You'll see what I'm going to be doing very shortly in October."



Trump is expected to recertify Iran's compliance to the deal before October 15 as required by the U.S. law. "De-certification" would start a 60-day clock for Congress to decide whether to re-impose U.S. sanctions on Iran.



The European Union has said even if Trump withdraws the U.S. from the JCPOA it will remain in the deal.



In an indirect reference to the United States on Sunday, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Leader of the Islamic Revolution, threatened that Iran will respond if the any "wrong move" is taken against the JCPOA.
Persian Poetry Day marked in Iran

09/18/17

Source: Press TV

Iranians have marked the Persian Poetry Day, which is also the anniversary of the passing of renowned Iranian poet Mohammad Hossein Behjat Tabrizi, better known by his pen name, Shahriar.



Read Patriotic Poems by Shahriar





An event was held Monday at the Maqbaratoshoara, or the Tomb of Poets, in the city of Tabriz, in East Azerbaijan Province, where Shahriar is buried.



Born in Tabriz in 1906, Shahriar received preliminary education in the city before moving to the capital Tehran, where he first studied at the famous Dar ul-Funun (Polytechnic) school and then at a medical college.



Consumed by an unrequited love, he gave up medicine shortly before graduation and worked as a bank clerk for years, instead. Even so, Shahriar excelled in poetry writing, drawing on many of his own bittersweet memories to create lasting pieces of literature.



Shahriar wrote both in Persian and Azeri Turkish languages, and his poems have been translated to 30 languages.



He died on September 18, 1988. He was 82.
Iran implementing nuclear-related commitments under JCPOA: IAEA Chief

09/18/17

Source: Press TV

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has once again confirmed that Iran is implementing its commitments under the 2015 landmark nuclear agreement it signed with the P5+1 group of countries. "The nuclear-related commitments undertaken by Iran under the JCPOA are being implemented," IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano said on Monday.

Amano made the remarks in his opening address to the IAEA's 61st General Conference in Vienna, a week after he told the 35-member Board of Governors that Iran had lived up to its commitments under the JCPOA.



He added that since the 60th General Conference in September 2016, the IAEA has continued to verify and monitor Iran's implementation of its nuclear-related commitments under the nuclear deal.



"Iran is now subject to the world's most robust nuclear verification regime," Amano added.



In his introductory statement to the Board of Governors in Vienna on September 11, the IAEA chief said that since the JCPOA Implementation Day in January 2016, the agency has been verifying and monitoring Iran's implementation of its nuclear-related commitments under the nuclear deal.



He emphasized that the UN nuclear agency would continue to verify the non-diversion of nuclear material declared by Iran under its Safeguards Agreement, adding, "Evaluations regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities in Iran remain ongoing."

Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council - the United States, France, Britain, Russia and China - plus Germany signed the nuclear agreement on July 14, 2015 and started implementing it on January 16, 2016.



Under the JCPOA, Iran undertook to put limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.



The IAEA has consistently verified that Iran is in compliance since the deal started being implemented.

Maintaining JCPOA essential: France FM

Speaking to reporters in New York on Monday ahead of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian gave a staunch defense of the JCPOA, stressing the importance of sustaining the deal.



"It is essential to maintain it [JCPOA]," said Le Drian, whose country is a signatory to the nuclear agreement.

French FM: Iran nuclear deal must be maintained to avoid nuclear proliferation. pic.twitter.com/vAZiNdctGv  Press TV (@PressTV) September 18, 2017

The French foreign minister also spoke about the possibility of holding talks to "complement" the agreement after 2025.



"Even, ... we could complement the accord for after 2025."



The United State, which is a party to the landmark nuclear agreement, seems to be laying out a case for abandoning it.



US President Donald Trump, who had made no secret of opposing the nuclear agreement in his election campaign, has threatened to "tear up" the agreement, calling it "the worst deal ever negotiated."



In its efforts to undermine the deal, the White House has recently attempted to sway the IAEA's reporting on Iran. Last month, US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley traveled to Vienna to press the IAEA to request access to Iran's military sites, a move that Washington hoped would undermine the JCPOA.
President Rouhani speaking in New York: Scrapping nuclear deal with Iran will be clear breach of agreement

09/18/17

Source: Press TV (photos by Islamic Republic News Agency)

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the United States' potential withdrawal from a multilateral nuclear deal with Iran would constitute a clear non-performance of contractual obligations by Washington. Speaking at a meeting of Iranian expatriates in New York, where he is to attend the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)President Rouhani said Iran would give "the due response" to any such violation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).



President Rouhani arriving in New York on Saturday afternoon



"Withdrawing from the JCPOA," he said, "would mean trampling on a clear political obligation that a government has. This is nothing to be proud of."



He said Iranian people have always lived up to their word throughout history but added that Iran would honor its obligations under the JCPOA as long as the other side honors its.



"We will never initiate a violation of the international agreement, but if the other side wishes to assault the rights of the Iranian people, Iran will certainly give the due response," the Iranian president said.



President Rouhani speaking at the gathering of Iranians in New York

The JCPOA was struck in July 2015, after some 22 months of negotiations between Iran and six other countries. Iran agreed under the deal to apply certain limits to its nuclear program, and its partners - the US, Russia, China, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom - agreed in return to terminate a series of sanctions against the Islamic Republic, including those unilaterally imposed by individual countries.



When the presidency in the US switched to the incumbent, Donald Trump, a year after the implementation of the Iran deal had begun, his administration started actively seeking a pretext to withdraw.



It has found none, but has nevertheless signaled that it may not offer to the US Congress verification of Iranian compliance necessary to renew waivers of unilateral, American sanctions against Iran at a next deadline in mid-October. The Congress would then have 60 days to decide whether to continue to waive the sanctions, although it would be unlikely to do so without a White House verification.



President Rouhani in New York:

How should the world see us?

(source: Hamdeli daily)



Iran has said it would work to sustain the JCPOA but has contingency plans in the event of a US withdrawal. On Sunday, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei warned that Iran would respond to any "wrong move" concerning the JCPOA.



In New York, President Rouhani said "whether the US is happy or worried," the JCPOA is to stay in political history as a sign of how complex international issues can be resolved via dialog.



The gathering of Iranians in New York to hear President Rouhani

During his stay in America, the Iranian president plans to meet world leaders and possibly discuss with them the JCPOA and the US stance.



Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif is also in New York, and a meeting of foreign ministers from the parties to the JCPOA may take place.



President Rouhani and his staff at the gathering of Iranians in New York

Meanwhile, all the other parties to the deal have voiced determination to keep the agreement in place.
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) has delisted UT Bank from the bourse.



This was contained in a release stating that the GSE has compulsorily delisted UT Bank Limited from the Official List of the Exchange effective September 14, 2017.



The Council of the GSE at its meeting held on Monday, September 4, 2017 and passed a resolution to compulsorily delist UT Bank Limited from the Official List of the Exchange. This follows the revocation of the licence of UT Bank by Bank of Ghana on Monday, August 14, 2017, the statement said.



The Bank of Ghana on August 14, 2017 granted permission to GCB Bank to assume the assets and some liabilities of two distressed banks; UT and Capital banks.



The decision, according to the Governor of the central bank, Dr. Ernest Addison is among others to protect the interest of depositors and strengthen Ghanas financial system.



Delisting the company from the bourse, the GSE explained that Listing Rule 13(4)(a), states that the Exchange may suspend listing, or compulsorily delist securities where the company has sold, or otherwise disposed of its principal operating assets, has ceased to be an operating company, or has discontinued a substantial portion of its operation or business without shareholders authorization.

Source: Goldstreetbusiness









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.

Featured Video
Ghanas quest for energy efficiency for its industrialisation agenda has received another major boost with the reaching of a new power deal with the worlds largest gas producer, Gazprom, for the supply of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), which is expected to increase the countrys power generation by some 1,000 megawatts.



The new contract comes on the heels of a recent deal reached with Equatorial Guinea for the supply of some 150 million standard cubic feet of natural gas per day to Ghana.



The new deal replaces two signed competing contracts for the same Tema LNG project by the previous John Mahama government, which were both considered over-priced and over-sized for Ghana.



The contract, which is said to have saved the country over a billion dollars, will see the construction of a re-gasification terminal at Tema.



The deals, according to government, are in line with its agenda to resort to the use of gas - which is cheaper - in powering its thermal plants.



The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has described the deal as positive and critical for the economic transformation of the country, especially at a time when it is recovering from an era of mismanagement.



To set the country back on a transformation agenda, the President emphasised the importance of an efficient and sustainable power supply that is needed to propel its industrial sector, as well as putting in place measures to consolidate its economic and fiscal policy.



If we are going to succeed in pushing the industrial development of our country rapidly, the supply of gas to our country is now a matter of very great importance for us, he emphasised.



He emphasised the importance his government places on creating the enabling environment for the private sector to play its critical role in the transformation agenda of the country.



In furtherance of this, he said his government, within the past eight months in office, has made conscious efforts to try to put a better framework in place to encourage private sector participation in the growth of the economy.



Pavel Oderov, Head of International Business at GAZPROM, expressed optimism about his companys relationship with Ghana into the future.



With GAZPROM producing 11% of the worlds gas, we are more than honoured to become a supplier of LNG to Ghana. We are absolutely sure that we will become a reliable partner for the energy industry in Ghana, he added.



Minister for Energy, Boakye Agyarko said the deals struck for more gas to Ghana have become necessary if Ghana is to make any headway towards its ambitious development agenda.



If we are to do the bauxite project, the agro-chemicals and also ensure fuel security and power generation, then it is necessary that we get gas at the right price.



The deals, he said, set the country on a new path of reducing the cost of producing power and subsequently reduce the cost to the end user.



The importance of reducing the cost of producing power is that it allows us then to charge a cheaper price for power to our citizens and also to industry so that they will become more competitive in the region, expand their production and be able to offer more employment to our citizens, he added.

Source: The Finder









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.

Featured Video
In spite of its challenges, Ghanas mining industry accounted for about 46% of the countrys gross export revenue in 2016, against 32.2% recorded in the previous year, the Ghana Chamber of Mines has revealed.



The chamber maintains that the development reinforces mining as the leading source for foreign exchange and a major contributor to the countrys balance of payments.



In nominal terms, the revenue realised from the export of minerals increased from $3.32 billion to $5.05 billion. Cocoa and crude oil followed with respective shares of 22.3% and 12.5%, which also translates into $2.48 billion and $1.39 billion of export receipts, respectively.



At a days training workshop for members of the Journalists for Business Advocacy (JBA) in Accra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Sulemanu Koney said the proceeds from export of minerals is a little more than twice that of cocoa and more than three times the outturn of crude oil in 2016.



The theme for the workshop was Deepening the integration of the mining industry into the non-mineral economy.



The workshop is an annual collaboration between the chamber and the JBA with the objective of keeping the media informed about developments in the mining sector.



The chamber was delighted with the fact that the January 2017 report of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana had observed that, For the first time since 2011, the provisional balance of payments in 2016 recorded a surplus. This largely reflected an improvement in the trade balance driven by a rise in gold export receipts and a fall in oil import prices.



Mr Koney further disclosed that total fiscal receipts attributable to the mining and quarry sector had gone up by 22% from GH1.35 billion in 2015 to GH1.65 billion in the 2016 fiscal year.

Producing members of the chamber retained some $2.30 billion out of the $3.25 billion realised into the country as mineral revenue, a representation of 70.9%.



This comprised of payments of GH399.9 million, GH696.9 million, GH550.7 million and GH0.54 million as Pay As You Earn (PAYE), corporate income tax, royalties among other taxes, respectively.



He revealed also that the mining and quarry sector has once again assumed the top spot as the highest payer of domestic tax in the country in 2016 based on figures from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).



It would be recalled that in the preceding year 2015, the finance and insurance sector occupied the top position as the countrys leading taxpayer.



On revenue and merchandise exports, he said in 2015 the mining sector contributed about 14.4% of government revenue and 34% in terms of total merchandise exports and produced about 3.6 million ounces of gold, which resulted in export revenue of about $3.3 billion.



Also, the same year, mining companies repatriated about 72% of foreign exchange into the economy, he revealed.

Source: The Finder









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.

Featured Video
Ghana has signed a major gas deal with energy giant Gazprom to boost the energy sector of the economy.



This came to light last Friday when a delegation from Gazprom  a Russian company  called on President Akufo-Addo at the Flagstaff House after the signing of the Gas Sales Agreement (GSA) with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).



Present at the meeting were the Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko; Board Chairman of GNPC, Freddie Blay and members of the management team, as well as the Transport Minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah.



The GSA is expected to add 1,000 megawatts to Ghanas power supply and possibly save the country over $1 billion, according to sources at the ministry of energy.



A regasification terminal at Tema would be constructed under the agreement, which replaces two signed competing contracts for the same Tema liquefied natural gas (LNG) project by the previous Mahama administration, which were both over-priced and over-sized.



President Akufo-Addo said, This new agreement is a positive one that is going to play a very important role in the economic life of Ghana.



For him, the decision by Gazprom to establish a base in Ghana was testament to efforts made by the current government over the last eight months to try to put a better framework in place to encourage private sector participation in the growth of the economy.



After putting in place measures to improve the countrys fiscal and monetary policy, as well as improve the economic and business climate, he indicated, We are now focusing on the very key area of power and energy.



That, he said, was because If we are going to succeed in pushing the industrial development of our country rapidly, the supply of gas to our country is now a matter of very great importance for us.



President Akufo-Addo added, All of us are going to do whatever we need to do to make sure that this relationship that we have now begun to build becomes a strong, positive and successful one.



On his part, head, International Business at Gazprom, Pavel Oderov, said, This is a very big day for us at Gazprom; we have signed today the second biggest LNG supply contract in our portfolio. With Gazprom producing 11% of the worlds gas, we are more than honoured to become a supplier of LNG to Ghana. We are absolutely sure that we will become a reliable partner for the energy industry in Ghana.



Ghana Saved $1bn



The new LNG deal, which has saved Ghana over $1 billion, has been described in the international energy market as a masterstroke.



The previous Mahama administration entered into contracts with three different companies (namely, Quantum Power Ghana, West African Gas Limited and Kaheel) for the supply of LNG and the construction of its associated import terminal.



The aggregate contractual commitment made to these companies amounted to 1000 mmscf/d (only 25% of which was the countrys needs as prescribed by the World Bank and the ministry of energy at the time or $25bn over the term of the contracts).



From a broader perspective, this was equivalent to more than half of Ghanas 2016 GDP.



A fourth entity, called the Tema LNG (TLNG), also made submissions to the government but was not successful.



Needless to say, if all the three contracts had been made effective, the country would have suffered a devastating and longstanding impact on its balance sheet.

Source: Daily Guide









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Royal Crown Packaging Limited (RCPL), a local packaging company, has won the Business Quality in Packaging Industry Award at the 5th Ghana Business Quality Awards recently held at the Banquet Hall in Accra.

Royal Crown Packaging shrugged off competition to scoop the prestigious award in a night where excellence was awarded.



The 2017 Ghana Business Quality Awards, themed Celebrating 60 years of business quality in Ghana, is an initiative of the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana (EFG), under the auspices of the Ministries of Finance and Business Development, in collaboration with the Ghana Standard Authority.



The awards recognize quality leadership skills, business icons representing the 10 regions, companies, products, and services that have met the standards of quality, deserving of praise and commendation from consumers and exploring the possibility of promoting quality products and business services.



After barely three years in operation, Royal Crown Packaging has taken some remarkable and giant strides in the packaging industry which have not gone unnoticed by industry players and was duly rewarded in an emphatic style.



Sharing her excitement, Managing Director of Royal Crown Packaging, Emelia Adjei Ohene-Kena, said, I would like to extend my gratitude to the organizers of this prestigious event.



At Royal Crown Packaging, we are driven by an optimistic, dedicated and creative spirit which has enabled us to constantly push new boundaries and drive ourselves to better meet our client needs. We want to thank our clients and partners for the trust they have reposed in us that has allowed us to continue to serve them today.



On what the future holds for Royal Crown Packaging, Mrs Ohene-Kena, said, we will continue to improve upon the quality of our packaging to serve customers and the industry better. We will also engage clients and other stakeholders more in order to deliver better products. More importantly, we hope to spread our tentacles to other countries in the West African sub-region.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
A 21-Year-Old man was nearly lynched by a mob at Agbogbogbloshie after a client realized that he was a male prostitute.



A client hired the services of Osman Bashit aka Adiza, who dressed like a female, for the night at a cost of GH30, but when the client realized that he had been deceived, he dragged him out of the hotel and raised alarm.



Bashit, according to information, offered to have anal sex with the furious man who called on his friends to beat him up in front of the hotel.



Eye witness account indicated that the incident occurred last Thursday night.



According to reports, Bashit often stands in front of a hotel at Agbogbloshie to solicit sex.



At about 10pm, a client mistook him for a woman and hired his services.



The client allegedly paid Bashit GH30 for a short time and took him to a nearby hotel.



Some of the Mans friends together with others, attempted to lynch Bashit, but a police patrol team in the area immediately went to his rescue.



ASP Effia Tenge, the Accra Regional Public Relations officer, said the patrol team rushed to rescue Bashit from the angry residents of Agbogbloshie, adding that police investigations were still ongoing.



Bashit, in his caution statement, told the police that he resides at a hotel in Accra and plies his trade at Agbogbolosie every night.



The suspect claimed he often works under the influence of Marijuana and he sleeps with about 20 men in a week





Source: Daily Guide









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has directed its members nationwide to withdraw their teaching services from today in solidarity with their counterparts at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW).



It is our firm belief that the issue at the UEW is an attack on academic freedom and thus affects all public universities in Ghana, it said in a statement signed by its National President, Dr Harry K. Agbanu.



In response to the withdrawal of teaching services, Vice-Chancellors Ghana (VCG) has invited the national executive of UTAG to what it described as an emergency meeting in Accra today to discuss progress report on the UEW and the way forward with the strike.



According to the VCG, it respected the constitutional right of UTAG to embark on the industrial action but was concerned about the ramifications the action would have on the academic calendar.



It said the meeting would also find out if there were alternative means to resolve the issue.



UTAG



In its statement, UTAG gave a one-week ultimatum to all stakeholders to resolve the issue, indicating that the situation after the ultimatum would inform NECs decision to review its position at the upcoming UTAG Congress to be held on September 22, 2017.



The High Court in Winneba had, on July 14, 2017, ordered the Vice-Chancellor of the UEW, Professor Mawutor Avokeh, and the Finance Officer to step aside until a case brought against them before the court that the two were operating under the institutions defunct governing council was resolved.



The UEW branch of UTAG has been on strike since July 2017 after the courts directives.



The UTAG statement described the court directive as an attack on academic freedom, and thus affects all public universities in Ghana.

It, however, appealed to all its members to diligently perform all other duties placed on them by their appointments.



New council and Education Ministry accused



It accused the recently inaugurated Governing Council of the UEW of not showing interest in the issue, neither had it shown any seriousness in resolving it.



The posturing of the Council Chairman has rather made matters worse by writing to the university lawyer to withdraw the whole appeal process by the university from the Appeals Court and the stay of execution of the injunction order issued by the High Court, it said



The statement described the stance of the new Governing Council as a clear case of ill intention in pursuit of sabotaging the substantive vice-chancellor.



It went ahead to say that the imposition of an acting vice-chancellor on the UEW by the High Court, as against the UEWs act and statutes, was an act considered as an element of attack on academic freedom.



The lack of interest exhibited by the Ministry of Education in the matter; it may interest the public to know that there has not been any representation from the ministry since the court processes started, although it is listed as the second respondent, it said.



The statement said the unconcerned posturing of the ministry was further worsened by the decision of the Minister of State in charge of Tertiary Education not to facilitate a meeting with some personalities in an attempt to resolve the issue amicably.



This idea was initiated by UTAG and communicated to the minister following the Presidents call on the UEW Council to resolve the UEW impasse amicably, it said.



The statement said the decision by UTAG was underpinned by its resolve to, at all times, protect and preserve the sanctity of academic freedom and the sanity of the working environment of its members on all its constituent campuses.



Background



The High Court in Winneba, on July 14, 2017, ordered Prof. Avokeh to step aside until the case brought against him was determined.



The order also affected the institutions Finance Officer.



The order was made in a case brought before the court by Supi Kofi Kwayera who insisted that the vice-chancellor and the finance officer were operating under the institutions defunct governing council.



The plaintiff held that the councils mandate had expired in November 2013, but the Education Ministry failed to constitute a new governing council for the university and rather allowed and permitted the defunct council, which had no mandate whatsoever, to continue the functions of a properly constituted council, as if same had been properly constituted.



That, Supi Kwayera insisted, was unlawful, hence the legal action against the UEW.



However, before the substantive claims were looked into, the university, through its counsel, applied to the court to dismiss the suit on the three counts, but the application was dismissed.



The UEW branch of UTAG, as a respondent, subsequently applied to join the application.



The branch subsequently declared a strike to protest against the courts ruling.

Source: Daily Graphic









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.

Featured Video
The Government of Ghana has expressed its profound gratitude to Ghanaians for supporting the people of Sierra Leone during the recent mudslide that claimed many lives in that country.



Minister of Information, Mustapha Hamid, in a press statement, observed that the timely support and massive donations by Ghanaians contributed significantly to the recovery efforts in Sierra Leone.



Sierra Leone was recently struck by mudslides and flooding that killed scores of people and damaged several properties.



According to the statement, the donations have indeed demonstrated the love and commitment of Ghanaians towards a sister African country, Sierra Leone.



While governments relief support has officially ended, individuals, organizations and other bodies who wish to make further contributions are encouraged to do so through the Sierra Leone Embassy in Ghana, the statement added.





Source: Daily Guide









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Vice-Chancellors Ghana (VCG) has invited the National Executive of UTAG to what it describes as an emergency meeting in Accra today to discuss progress report on the UEW and the way forward with the strike.



Members of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), are embarking on an indefinite strike nationwide to register their protest over a court ruling which directed the Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), to step aside temporarily.



The strike is in solidarity with the UTAG-UEW, whose members have already laid down their tools since July 2017.



UTAG views the courts directive as an attack on academic freedom, which it believes might affect all public universities in the country.



"The protest is aimed at fighting the menace of unwanted interference in University education.



The court in its pronouncement asked that the man should step aside until the governing council is formed, so the governing council has the right to vary the decision of the court, and this is the case that the governing council is not doing that, and this same governing council has written to withdraw the case from the court so where do we go?



A Winneba High Court in July ordered the Vice-Chancellor of UEW, Professor Mawutor Avokeh, to step aside until a case brought against him and the Universitys Governing Council is determined.The order also affected the institutions Finance Officer.



The order was made in a case brought before the court by Supi Kofi Kwayera who insisted that the Vice Chancellor and the Finance Officer were operating under the institutions defunct governing council.



The plaintiff held that the Universitys Councils mandate had expired in November 2013, but the Education Ministry failed to constitute a new Governing Council for the university, and rather allowed and permitted the defunct Governing Council which had no mandate whatsoever to continue the functions of a properly constituted Governing Council as if same had been properly constituted.



This, Mr. Kwayera insisted was unlawful, and hence his legal action against the University of Education, Winneba.



However, Speaking to the National Executive Member of UTAG and the Vice president of UTAG, KNUST Branch, Prof.Charles Marfo on Okay FM's 'Ade Akye Abia' Programme, explained they hope their meeting with Vice-Chancellors Ghana will yield positive as Vice Chancellors Ghana are pleading with them to suspend their Strike.

Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The National Youth Organiser of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sidi Abubakar, has urged the Board Chairman of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Sammy Awuku, to eschew tendencies of using the agency to discriminate against beneficiaries on political grounds.



Ill like to advise my brother that the position hes occupying is not a political position. The position hes occupying is for mother Ghana, and therefore every youth; irrespective of their political coloration, he must attend to them, he said.



According to Mr Abubakar, the NDC will keep Mr Awuku on his toes to ensure the right thing is done.



Speaking in an interview on Class FM, Mr Abubakar asked Sammy Awuku to "resolve all the differences at YEA"



"If you remember, recently there is this issue of mass transfer, and accusers are pointing at him as the youth leader for masterminding that transfer. So to me, having given him this opportunity to be the Chairman of the Board of YEA, I think its an opportunity for him to resolve all these differences and also to be able to take the issues out of court, sanitise the Youth Employment Agency and make sure there is unity and cohesion so that they can deliver for the youth of this country.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Founder of Ghana Freedom Party Madam Akua Donkor has expressed concern about what she described as show of gross disrespect for her person by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addos led government for not crediting her with the Free SHS policy.



According to her, the NPP flagship programme which was launched last Monday was her idea and for the new Administration to implement it means that she deserves to be acknowledged.



Speaking to the Daily Heritage in an interview, she also lamented the fact that she had been overlooked by the NPP government in all its programmes and so it would be difficult for her to support the government with the more ideas I have about the free education policy, which she intended rolling had she been voted for as the President of the country.



You know what? Free education was my idea. Nana Akufo Addos ideas were All Die-Be-Die and ex-president Mahama also came with Edee bee keke. President Akufo Addo has sidelined me and does not invite me for his programmes and therefore I cannot support him, Madam Donkor said.



Allegation



She alleged that prior to the 2016 election, the then candidate Nana Akufo Addo ensured she Madam Donkor was disqualified so that he could role her ideas.



I cannot support him, because he made sure that the Electoral Commission officials would disqualify me. He said if he did not win the last election that would be his last opportunity as he would not get the opportunity to contest [the presidency] again.



If he does things well, fine but if he fails then we have issues with him. And I would not forgive him if the free SHS policy doesnt go well; my policy was to bring free education from the basic level to the senior high school. Look at Gaddafi, for instance, he had crude oil and everything was free in his country- electricity, water and allowance for children.



She told the paper that should the president and his team fail to sustain the policy, Ghanaians would not forgive him since he would be using state resources to implement the policy.



She urged the president to be transparent and ensure all-inclusiveness and should desist from attacking people.



Court action



Madam Donkor said she is considering a court action against President Nana Addo for stealing her Free SHS policy.



The free SHS policy by Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo seems to be facing some intellectual property issues as founder and leader of the Ghana Freedom Party (GDP)  Akua Donkor, has revealed plans of suing Nana Addo for stealing her idea prior to the 2012 elections.



A bitter Akua Donkor reveals that she will be at least satisfied should her political critics credit her with introducing the policy.



As soon as Nana Addo set his eyes on my posters and saw my message, he started talking about running a free senior high school programme.



But we all know he brought on board all die be die and everyone knows what I am saying is the truth, she fumed. The free SHS policy which was launched a week ago is expected to see over 400,000 students get admitted to various senior high schools without having to pay school fees.

Source: Daily Heritage









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.

Featured Video
National Vice Chairperson for the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Madam Anita De-Soso says the proposal by President Akufo Addo to make August 4 as the Founders Day will not change the worldwide celebration of September 21 as Founders Day to honour Kwame Nkrumah.



She stressed that President Akufo Addo cannot re-write the countrys history to satisfy his personal interest as it is undeniable fact that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is the founder of Ghanas Independence.



Speaking on Okay FMs Ade Akye Abia Morning Show, Madam Anita De-Soso maintained that the sympathizers of Kwame Nkrumah like herself and Nkrumahist [believers of Nkrumah ideologies] will celebrate Nkrumahs birthday as a Founders Day and not as Memorial Day proposed by Nana Akufo Addo.



Nobody can rewrite our history again for us. John the Baptist talked about Jesus Christ before He began His work but today we talk about Jesus Christ; God has blessed our Founder who is Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. I have already said that whether Akufo Addo and NPP like it or not, we will celebrate Nkrumahs birthday as a public holiday and this coming Thursday, many programmes are underway by Kwasi Pratt and other Nkrumahist to celebrate Nkrumahs birthday as the Founders Day, she indicated.



The NDC former Womens Organizer stressed that inasmuch as President Akufo Addo and NPP want to fix another public holiday on August 4 to include others as the Founders of Ghanas Independence, the fact remains that Ghana is not the only country which celebrates September 21 as Founders Day.



It is up to Akufo Addo and the NPP to add another public holiday on August 4 to celebrate Founders Day but the truth of the matter is that the Founders Day is not only celebrated in Ghana but other African countries as well and they celebrate it as a holiday and so Nana Addo cannot change this history, she argued.



She stressed that other African countries see in Dr. Kwame Nkrumah a leader who died to resurrect them from death to realise the importance of fighting for independence and total emancipation.



We want Akufo Addo to know that whether he likes it or not, we will celebrate Founders Day on September 21 and if he wants to add another holiday on August 4 as another Founders Day, we thank him; already we have so many public holidays in Ghana. Nobody can compare himself to Kwame Nkrumah because he is peerless, she fumed.



The President has decided to propose a legislation to Parliament to designate 4th August as FOUNDERS DAY, and 21st September as KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL DAY, both of which will be observed as public holidays.



But in the meantime, the President has issued an Executive Instrument to commemorate this years celebration of KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL DAY as a public holiday.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]









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.

Featured Video
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia was the Achilles' heel of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the lead-up to the 2016 elections, Dr Tony Aidoo, Ghanas former Ambassador to the Netherlands, has said.



He said even though Dr Bawumia had flaws in his analysis of the economy ahead of the polls, the NDC, then in government, failed to put up an effective communication strategy to neutralise the analysis of the former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana.



What I missed was the inability of the NDC communication team to bring out the facts so as to challenge the comparative analysis that Dr Bawumia was making, Dr Aidoo told TV3 in his first-ever interview after he returned home from his diplomatic assignment.



Dr Bawumia was the Achilles heel of the NDC, Dr Aidoo observed, adding: Not only for the 2016 elections but he started way back in 2012.



Pointing out some of the things he saw as flaws in Dr Bawumias pre-election comments on the economy, Dr Aidoo said: He ignored the fact that for the most part of the Kufuor administration, the eight years was virtually carried by donor financial support. All the social interventions that Kufuor implemented were donor supported, he said.



Dr Aidoo said the Kufuor administration, for instance, had a lot of burden taken off his governments shoulders when Ghanas creditors wrote off 66% of the countrys debt as a result of the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative.



At the time our national debt was about 6.8 billion dollars. In effect, our debt-to-GDP ratio certainly dropped sharply so on what grounds can Bawumia compare that an economy that was virtually carried by donor financial support was managed better than an economy that did not have those support? Dr Aidoo asked.



He, therefore, said it was important for the NDCs communication team to have had people with historical recall and administrative memory to counter Dr Bawumias assertion.







Source: classfmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Member of Parliament for Zabzugu, Alhassan Umar, has suggested to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to seek parliamentary approval if he wants his family members to be remembered in the history of Ghana.

President Akufo-Addo and his New Patriotic Party come under criticisms in recent time in what is believed to be their bid to place Joseph Kwame Kyeretwie Boakye Danquah above Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in the struggle for Ghanas independence.

The latest decision by the President to change September 21 (Nkrumahs birthday) from being Founders Day to Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day and make August 4 Founders Day has reinforced the criticism of Nana Akufo-Addo.

Commenting on the latest decision by the President on Monday on TV3s New Day, Mr Umar said: if the President wants his family members to be remembered, then we have to remove the s [from Founders Day] to be able to include the rest [including JB Danquah]. Mr Umar who is a National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP said you cant water down what Kwame Nkrumah did and if so, what the President may do is to suggest to Parliament to remove the apostrophe s on the Founders Day to make it Founders Day and leave it so that it will be subservient to the day.

The President wants to downplay the role Nkrumah played and what the President wants to do is reinvention of the wheel, he added. Mr. Umar said the people of Ghana did not vote Nana Akufo-Addo into office to create more holidays but rather businesses, indicating the making of August 4 a public holiday will affect businesses.

Depeuty Communication Minister, George Nenyi Andah said though the commemoration of September 21 is important, we have to cover the significance of August 4 in the history of Ghana. We will continue to learn the history of Ghana and the President is saying let us talk about it, he is not saying we should do it he explained.

He said August 4 is not about NPP, saying The events of August 4 are not about NPP but about what transpired in Ghana then.

Source: 3news.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Harrisburg police are investigating a shooting that happened on the 1300 block of North 14th Street in the city Sunday evening.

A juvenile male was shot at around 9:20 p.m., said Sgt. James Galkowski. The investigation is in its early stages, Galkowski said, adding that there is no suspect information at this time.

The victim was alert and conscious when he was taken to the hospital, Galkowski said.

"Thank God he wasn't killed," one man said as he talked with other concerned neighbors about the shooting, a foreign happening on the otherwise quiet block.

Neighbors said they heard several shots and saw smoke in the air following the incident. Most thought it was fireworks before they saw the injured teen and called police.

Shell casings were found in a yard near where the man was shot and near multiple cars where the incident occurred. No other injuries were reported, though a group of neighbors said several people had only recently gone inside prior to the shooting.



The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Harrisburg police via Dauphin County dispatches at 717-558-6900.
An avalanche of federal lawsuits is expected to come thundering down on Equifax over the massive security breach that has put the private information of 143 million Americans in peril.

At least one of those class-action suits against the credit bureau is coming from Pennsylvania.

Yet even though it was filed in the Keystone State, the suit Michelle F. Austin of Eagleville lodged in U.S. Eastern District Court isn't likely to be fought out in Pennsylvania.

Instead, attorneys for other clients who have filed federal cases against Equifax are asking that the Austin case, and all others filed across the nation, be consolidated and addressed in federal court in Georgia.

Equifax, one of the nation's three main credit bureaus, is based in Atlanta. On Sept. 7, the agency reported that hackers breached its system on July 29, gaining access to consumers' Social Security numbers and other confidential data.

Austin, like others who are suing Equifax, are trying to hold the firm legally responsible for exposing them to likely identity theft. Austin also attacks Equifax over how long it took to report the hack, which she claims has caused the victims to lose access to their financial accounts.

She accuses Equifax of violating the Fair Credit Reporting and also makes claims for invasion of privacy and negligence.

The filing of Austin's suit was promptly followed by a request to move the case to Georgia, where a prior class-action lawsuit was filed against Equifax by Joseph Kuss and Stacy Markowitz.

In making that request, the lawyers for Kuss and Markowitz noted that at least 30 similar suits have so far been filed in 19 federal judicial districts. They contend the consolidation will allow for more efficient handling of the cases.
By George F. Will

Many Americans' moral vanity is expressed nowadays in their rage to disparage.

George Will

They are incapable of measured judgments about past politics -- about flawed historical figures who were forced by cascading circumstances to make difficult decisions on the basis of imperfect information.

So, the nation now needs an example of how to calmly assess episodes fraught with passion and sorrow. An example arrives Sunday night.

For 10 nights on PBS, Ken Burns' and Lynn Novick's "The Vietnam War," 10 years in the making and 18 hours in length, tells the story of a war "begun in good faith by decent people, out of fateful misunderstandings," and "prolonged because it seemed easier to muddle through than admit that it had been caused by tragic decisions" during five presidencies.

The combat films are extraordinary; the recollections and reflections of combatants and others on both sides are even more so, featuring photos of them then and interviews with many of them now.

A 1951 photo shows a congressman named John Kennedy dining in Saigon. There is an interview with Le Quan Cong, who became a guerilla fighter in 1951, at age 12.

Viewers will meet Madame Le Minh Khue, who was 16 when she joined the "Youth Shock Brigade for National Salvation": "I love Hemingway. I learned from 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.'

Like the resourcefulness of the man who destroys the bridge. I saw how he coped with war, and I learned from that character." As did another combatant who loves that novel, John McCain.

Eleven years after his Saigon dinner, President Kennedy said, "We have not sent combat troops in the generally understood sense of the word." Obliqueness and evasions greased the slide into a ground war of attrition.

Kennedy, his successor (who said, "Foreigners are not like the folks I'm used to") and their advisers were determined not to make the Munich mistake of confronting an enemy tardily.

Tapes of Lyndon Johnson's telephone conversations with advisers are haunting and horrifying: To national security adviser McGeorge Bundy: "What the hell am I ordering those kids out there for?"

In 1966 alone, eighteen large-scale U.S. offensives left more than 3 million South Vietnamese -- approximately one-fifth of the country's population -- homeless.

Just on the Laos portion of the Ho Chi Minh Trail, more tons of bombs -- 3 million tons -- were dropped than fell on Germany and Japan during World War II. By body counts, America was winning.

As an Army adviser says in episode 4, "If you can't count what's important, you make what you can count important."

Vincent Okamoto earned in Vietnam the Army's second-highest honor, the Distinguished Service Cross.

He recalls the platoon he led: "Nineteen-, 20-year-old high school dropouts ... they looked upon military service as like the weather: you had to go in, and you'd do it. But to see these kids, who had the least to gain, there wasn't anything to look forward to. ... And yet, their infinite patience, their loyalty to each other, their courage under fire. ... You would ask yourself, 'How does America produce young men like this?'"

Or like Okamoto. He was born during World War II in Arizona, in a Japanese-American internment camp.

Karl Marlantes, a Rhodes Scholar from Yale who voluntarily left Oxford for Marine service in Vietnam, recalls a fellow lieutenant radioing to battalion headquarters over 20 kilometers away the fact that he had spotted a convoy of trucks.

The battalion commander replied that this was impossible because intelligence operatives reported no trucks near there. In a Texas drawl the lieutenant replied: "Be advised. I am where I am and you are where you are. Where I am, I see goddamned trucks."

Weary of hearing the prudence that was so painfully learned in Indochina derided as the "Vietnam syndrome," Marlantes says (in his Wall Street Journal review of Mark Bowden's book "Hue 1968"): "If by Vietnam syndrome we mean the belief that the U.S. should never again engage in (a) military interventions in foreign civil wars without clear objectives and a clear exit strategy, (b) 'nation building' in countries about whose history and culture we are ignorant, and (c) sacrificing our children when our lives, way of life, or 'government of, by, and for the people' are not directly threatened, then we should never get over Vietnam syndrome. It's not an illness; it's a vaccination."

The Burns/Novick masterpiece is, in Marlantes' words about Bowden's book, "a powerful booster shot."

George F. Will is a columnist for The Washington Post. His work appears on Mondays on PennLive Opinion.
Gov. Tom Wolf signed off on Pennsylvania's roadmap for complying with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act on Monday and submitted it to U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos for her approval.

The plan, which was made public at 4:59 p.m. Monday, establishes what the department describes as "ambitious yet attainable" goals of raising student performance, increasing graduation rates and having English learners move toward achieving English language proficiency.

It responds to the oft-heard complaints about too much class time spent on testing by shortening the state exams that third through eighth graders take in English language arts and math.

It also establishes a new school report card that expands the indicators used to measure performance, placing less emphasis on state test scores which educators had sought. The indicators chosen include academic progress, graduation rates, English language proficiency, chronic absenteeism, and career exploration and preparation rates of fifth-, eighth- and 11th-graders.

"Pennsylvania's ESSA Consolidated State Plan presented the department with an opportunity to shape education in the commonwealth for years to come, a charge we did not take lightly," said state Education Secretary Pedro Rivera in a news release.

The draft of the plan, which took shape after 18 months of meetings with educators, parents, and others in all corners of the state, drew 445 comments. The department intends to post those comments on its website by Wednesday.

Department spokeswoman Casey Smith said most of them tracked the comments that previously had been expressed during the meetings held around the state.

A question-and-answer post will be added to the website soon after to address public comments that fall outside of the scope of the plan, said department spokeswoman Casey Smith.

Some modest revisions were made in response to the comments received. Many of them provided more clarification of or justification for what was in the plan rather than dramatic changes.

In submitting the plan on Monday, Pennsylvania joined more than 30 other states in beating their midnight deadline for fulfilling their obligation to show how they intend to comply with the federal law. Every Student Succeeds Act is a successor to the controversial No Child Left Behind Act that established 100 percent proficiency for all students as its goal.

So far, 14 states have had their ESSA compliance plans approved.

The first step in the U.S. Department of Education's approval process will be a compliance and completeness check, followed by a peer review, an informal phone discussion; and then a formal letter will be sent laying out the federal department's recommended revisions to the plan, Smith said. All of this is expected to happen within the next 120 days.

The final plan drew mixed reviews from various interests in Pennsylvania who had found time to look over the finalized plan that was submitted.

While a spokesman for the Pennsylvania State Education Association called it "a very solid step in the right direction," House Democratic Education Committee Chairman Jim Roebuck of Philadelphia was generally supportive but raised concerns about where the funding is going to come from to support new programs it proposes.

Senate Democratic Education Committee Chairman Andy Dinniman of Chester County was critical of its failure to propose an alternative accountability measure for high school students to the Keystone Exams.

"Unfortunately, what the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) submitted instead is more of the same - schools that test and government that spends," Dinniman said in a statement. "Rather than examining what works and what doesn't, the department took the bureaucratic approach - either glossing over or outright ignoring the key issues impacting our schools, students, and teachers."

Republican chairmen of the education committees along with other education interest groups failed to or were unable to provide an immediate comment on Monday.
Emergency workers stand next to a fallen tree in Timisoara, Romania, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, following a deadly storm that affects the west part of the country. Authorities say six people have died and at least 30 were injured during a violent storm in western Romania that produced winds of up to 100 kilometers (60 miles) an hour. (AP Photo/Cornel Putan)
A Greyhound logo is shown at the Greyhound Terminal at the James Richardson International Airport in Winnipeg on September 3, 2009. Greyhound Canada has applied to regulators in British Columbia to drop five routes, four of them in northern B.C., as the company deals with plunging ridership. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods
Professional triathletes Nathan Killam and Leon Griffin embrace at the finish line of the 2017 Challenge Penticton half-distance event, which may have been the last race held under the Challenge banner.
Liberal MP Iqra Khalid makes an announcement about an anti-Islamophobia motion on Parliament Hill while Minister of Canadian Heritage Melanie Joly looks on in Ottawa on Wednesday, February 15, 2017. The MP who touched off a fiery debate across Canada with a motion on Islamophobia, is urging parliamentarians to take a unified approach to find ways to combat it. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Patrick Doyle
File - In this Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017 file photo, Kurds wave Kurdish flags during a rally to support an independence referendum in Iraq, at Martyrs Square in Downtown Beirut, Lebanon. On Monday Sept. 18, 2017, Iraq's Supreme Court issued a temporary ban on a Kurdish autonomous region's referendum on independence scheduled for Sept. 25. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
Police talks to some protesters as demonstrators march in response to a not guilty verdict in the trial of former St. Louis police officer Jason Stockley, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in St. Louis. Stockley was acquitted in the 2011 killing of a black man following a high-speed chase. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
St. Mary's Ava Schultz wins GHT Player of the Week for Week 12

St. Mary's Ava Schultz is the final player of the week of the fall season after her effort in the regional semis for the Snowbirds' volleyball team.
China's oil company Cnooc looks for Gulf of Mexico partners



Derick E. Hingle/Bloomberg



Company won rights to develop two deep-water areas in Mexico. Cnooc looks to farm out areas near U.S. maritime border

By Adam Williams and Aibing Guo

MEXICO CITY/HONG KONG

Petroleumworld 09 18 2017

Cnooc Ltd. is searching for partners to develop oil prospects deep into the Gulf of Mexico as the Chinese giant extends its global reach.

After bidding alone for exploration rights in Mexico's first-ever deep-water auction in 2016, Cnooc is seeking deals known as farmouts, a common type of joint venture where a stake in an oil prospect is exchanged for help with drilling and production. The company has yet to choose partners, a Beijing-based spokeswoman for Cnooc said Friday.

China, the world's biggest oil consumer after the U.S., has sought a foothold in crude production everywhere from Africa to Canada as it looks to ensure supplies to its fast-growing economy. Several Latin American countries like Venezuela and Brazil have taken advantage of China's thirst for crude to secure investments or loans that haven't always been easy to obtain elsewhere.

Cnooc is the first foreign producer to seek a farmout in Mexico since the opening of the country's oil industry to competition, following decades of a monopoly in the hands of state-owned producer Petroleos Mexicanos .

"It makes sense" that Cnooc would seek a partner, Juan Carlos Zepeda, Mexico's oil commissioner, said in a phone interview from Mexico City. "It's logical because in deep waters, companies normally develop the projects in consortium groups or partnerships."

If Cnooc seeks a partner to act as operator in one or both of its deep water oil areas, it would have to be approved by the country's oil regulator, Zepeda said.

Ultra-Deep

The company was awarded two blocks just south of the U.S.-Mexico maritime border in an area known as the Perdido Fold Belt, where Mexico estimates the bulk of its untapped oil potential is located. It's one of the deepest exploration areas in the world.

Sixty-six companies have won rights to develop oil and natural gas in Mexico since the country passed final legislation to end the Pemex monopoly in 2014. The new oil and gas contracts could bring in as much as $59 billion in investment for the country, Energy Minister Pedro Joaquin Coldwell said last month.

Cnooc, which has been an active participant in other Mexico oil auctions, is one of 16 companies qualified to bid to partner with Pemex in three fields where the country's state-owned operator is seeking joint ventures next month. In the Dec. 2016 deep water auction, Cnooc was the only company that won oil areas as a lone bidder, while companies such as Total SA , Exxon Mobil Corp., and Chevron Corp. won rights to develop Mexican crude as part of consortium groups.







Story by Adam Williams and Aibing Guo from Bloomberg.



bloomberg. com / 09 15 2017
Mexico's main refineries down, quake, blackout, cripple refinery capacity





Cadereyta refinery latest casualty from spate of upsets. U.S. refiners exporting less gasoline after Hurricane Harvey

By Amy Stillman

MEXICO CITY/HONG KONG

Petroleumworld 09 18 2017

Mexico's drivers may pay more for fuel after a power failure hit a second refinery the same week that the strongest earthquake in more than a century shut the nation's biggest plant.

Cadereyta, in the northern state of Nuevo Leon, may not be fully operational until Friday following a blackout in northern Mexico on September 10, according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation.

Natural disasters and maintenance curbed output from three of state-owned oil company Petroleos Mexicanos's six refineries, which account for 48 percent of capacity. That's forced Pemex to boost fuel imports at a time when refineries in the U.S., Mexico's biggest, nearest supplier, are making less fuel as they recover from Hurricane Harvey. Mexico processed processed the least amount of crude in July since December 1990.

Mexico was already significantly shorter of gasoline because of the outages at Salina Cruz and Madero, Facts Global Energy said in a research note . With shortages in the U.S. following Hurricane Harvey, Mexican demand will increase the pressure on an already tight market.

Running low

The Salina Cruz refinery in Oaxaca, Mexico's largest, which has been intermittently out of service since mid-June, was hit by last week's deadly earthquake and could take two to three weeks to be brought back online . Pemex has also said its Madero refinery in the state of Tamaulipas is undergoing major maintenance work and will not return to normal operations until the end of December.

The 275,000 barrel-a-day Cadereyta refinery lost power for several hours on Sunday and some units were knocked offline. Many of the refinery's units are still restarting, including a fluid catalytic cracking unit known as FCC-2 that is undergoing weeklong maintenance , the person said late Wednesday.

Cadereyta continues to operate, according to a Pemex spokeswoman who asked not to be identified, citing company policy. She wouldn't specify at what capacity. The fluid catalytic cracker at Mexico's northernmost refinery was already undergoing maintenance before the blackout occurred, she said.

Hurricane Harvey shut more than 20 percent of U.S. refining capacity at one point, forcing Mexico to import fuel from Europe and Asia to make up the difference. At least 17 tankers have been chartered to load fuel through early October in countries outside the U.S. for delivery to Mexico, according to ship fixture date compiled by Bloomberg.







Story by Amy Stillman;With assistance by Lucia Kassai from Bloomberg.



bloomberg. com / 09 15 2017
Must-Read Travel Guides

EAST ASIA

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Featured Articles

Contact

Copyright

Disclosure

If you wish to contact me for questions, collaboration inquiries, comments, suggestions, reviews or just about anything, please send an email to. I will try my best to reply quickly! Unless, of course, I'm on a trip! :D All rights reserved. All photos and content in this blog are owned by(unless otherwise stated). Parts of the articles may be excerpted (a link to this site should be provided), but not reproduced as a whole. Photos may not be used without permission. Thank you very much!Unless otherwise stated, I personally write my blog posts and it expresses my own thoughts and opinions. I pay for all the expenses of my trips (unless otherwise stated). I welcome collaborations and reviews as long as they are beneficial to my readers. All reviews on collaborations contain my own views and opinion and were not influenced by anyone. For inquiries, you may contact me here . Thank you very much!
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

A con man doesnt necessarily have to be very smart. All that is required is to be smarter than the targets of his con. Eight months into his presidency Donald Trump has provided proof positive that America is wrought with ignorance and epic stupidity. Look no further than his voter base to unearth evidence of the erosion of our national IQ.

Unraveling the rise of Donald Trump to the highest office on the planet is not a difficult task. He spoke to the conscious of a segment of America that had been silenced by political correctness. His brash, outlandish speeches ignited a smoldering fire of cultural chaos and reintroduced the idea of Jim Crowism to a new generation. However what cant be misunderstood is that Donald Trump is only a symptom, not the cause of the disease.

Racism is sewn into the fabric of America, as American as apple pie and hot dogs. Its also a direct derivative from ignorance. America has devolved into an intellectual wasteland. Donald Trump represents the intellectual deficiency of America, and his supporters readily engage in and embrace his stupidity.

Consider that the recent summit between Trump and Democrats which resulted in an apparent handshake deal regarding DACA and border security  that allegedly didnt include the construction of a wall  drew outrage and disbelief from his disillusioned base. Trump campaigned on the foundation of bias and bigotry, and his backpedaling on immigration solutions infuriated his voters.

Republican voters have been enamored with and energized by the prospect of a border wall. During the circus act that was Trumps presidential campaign, the ringleader not only promised a wall but also assured his cult that Mexico would even foot the bill. His base stood, cheered and clapped like trained animals of the very same circus. As if illegal immigration and the flow of illicit drugs dont transpire through sea and air as well. Ask yourself who would believe such a stretch of the imagination and why would you believe it? That answer is simple. The same kind of person who believes that monuments to slavery and a lost war arent offensive and should be preserved and revered.

Trump voters were well aware of his propensity for shameless dishonesty, questionable business acumen, history of bigotry and neophyte political status. They cast their ballot anyway believing his hollow promises and never questioning his lack of an actual agenda. He made no secret of his desire to pass biased legislation and they still voted. He admitted to being a sexual predator who had zero respect for women, and they still voted for him. He was an inept leader, corrupt businessman and social misfit and yet they still voted for him. Thats just not smart, and its a crying shame that this country allowed the likes of Donald Trump into the White House.

Trumps inability to lead comes into crystal clear focus when discussing the North Korea crisis. His nonsensical tough talk was so empty and devoid of vision that just like a child, hes been asked to leave the room while the adults talked and handed over the reins to General James Mattis. Imagine a president being so recklessly ridiculous that he isnt even allowed to have a hand in critical political solutions. Thats exactly what is taking place in Washington.

When all is said and done, America is a laughingstock because of the clown our citizens empowered. To see past his deficiencies, you either would have to be blind or subscribe to the same beliefs. In either case, its a terrible reflection on this country. Our only hope is that enough people have been shaken from their slumber and will cast informed, educated ballots in the name of change and common sense for the future of us all. RESIST.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

By Dan Levine

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters)  San Diego attorney Dulce Garcia has regularly defended clients in immigration court. Now, she is the one seeking legal relief.

Brought to the United States illegally by her parents as a child, Garcia is one of six immigrants who sued the Trump administration on Monday over its decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program. Since it was authorized in 2012 by President Barack Obama, the program has provided protection from deportation and the right to work legally to nearly 800,000 young people.

Garcias case, filed in San Francisco federal court, is the first to be brought by DACA recipients, known as Dreamers, since U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced earlier this month that the Obama-era policy would start winding down in March 2018, according to Garcias lawyers.

It is among several lawsuits challenging the decision to end DACA, including two cases brought by state attorneys general.

The legal claims in all of the cases, including Garcias, are similar: that the Trump administration did not follow proper administrative procedure in rescinding DACA, and that making enforcement promises to a group of people, only to revoke them, violates due process.

The Trump administration has said it is ending DACA because Obama overstepped his constitutional authority when he bypassed Congress and created the DACA program unilaterally. President Donald Trump called on Congress to enact a law to protect DACA recipients and last week angered some of his fellow Republicans by negotiating with top congressional Democratic leaders on possible legislation.

During the 2016 presidential election Trump ran on a hardline immigration platform, promising to end DACA and strengthen border protections in order to increase jobs for U.S. workers.

I CRIED RIGHT THERE

The daughter of a hotel housekeeper and a welder, Garcia arrived in Southern California from Mexico at the age of 4. A few years later, she said, her family was ousted from their apartment because the property contained illegal units.

We were living out of my dads truck for a little bit there, she said.

Garcia decided to become an attorney after working for a criminal defense lawyer in high school. She put herself through school working for lawyers and performing other jobs such as parking cars.

After Obama announced DACA in 2012, Garcia, now 34, seized the opportunity. When she filled out forms for a social security number in 2013, the government clerk congratulated her.

I cried right there, she said.

The case on behalf of Garcia and other DACA recipients could be heard with two separately filed San Francisco DACA cases, one brought by the University of California and the other by a group of state attorneys general, led by Californias Xavier Becerra. Another group of attorneys general, led by New Yorks Eric Schneiderman, filed a lawsuit over DACA on September 6 in Brooklyn federal court.

Legal experts have said court challenges to Trumps decision could face an uphill battle because a president typically has wide authority in implementing immigration policy.

Jirayut New Latthivongskorn, another plaintiff in the lawsuit on Monday, was brought to the United States from Thailand when he was nine. Latthivongskorn is now a fourth year medical student at University of California San Francisco and a masters degree candidate in public health at Harvard. His DACA work authorization expires in January 2019.

His medical residency is not set to begin until a few months after that, and could be impossible if he loses his authorization to work legally.

I have all these big ideas about how I want to change the world and change systems around health care, he said. The fact I might not be able to get there is troubling and frustrating.

Garcia said that having to advise some of her DACA clients that there may be no help for them while at the same time trying to address her own immigration status takes a toll.

Thats a reason why I dont do exclusively immigration law, she said. It would wear me down too fast.

(Reporting by Dan Levine; Editing by Sue Horton and Mary Milliken)
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

A coalition of individuals and organizations, led by the governor, have come together to raise enough money to pay the $495 DACA renewal fee for all of the states DREAMers

Here is the announcement:

No government funds are being used. Instead, a coalition of individuals, local, and national organizations have raised enough money to cover the renewal fee for every single DREAMer in Rhode Island, so that can apply before the October 5 deadline. Gov. Gina Raimondo is leading the effort that demonstrates what people are capable of when they come together to fight bigotry.

The DREAMers have widespread political support outside of Donald Trump and niche of far-right extremists.

America isnt going to let Trump throw 800,000+ people who were brought to this country as children to be deported, or be frightened into self-deporting.

The DREAMers arent going to leave this country without millions of Americans fighting for them.

The United States is not Trumps DACA decision, but an open and tolerant land of opportunity that wont throw people out of the only nation that they have ever known.

DREAMers are students. They are workers. They are valued members of our communities, and they deserve to stay in the US.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

A bad sign for Donald Trump is that his legal team is openly fighting with each other in public as the Russia scandal is drawing closer to the President.

The New York Times reported:

The friction escalated in recent days after Mr. Cobb was overheard by a reporter for The New York Times discussing the dispute during a lunchtime conversation at a popular Washington steakhouse. Mr. Cobb was heard talking about a White House lawyer he deemed a McGahn spy and saying Mr. McGahn had a couple documents locked in a safe that he seemed to suggest he wanted access to. He also mentioned a colleague whom he blamed for some of these earlier leaks, and who he said tried to push Jared out, meaning Jared Kushner, the presidents son-in-law and senior adviser, who has been a previous source of dispute for the legal team.

After The Times contacted the White House about the situation, Mr. McGahn privately erupted at Mr. Cobb, according to people informed about the confrontation who asked not to be named describing internal matters. John F. Kelly, the White House chief of staff, sharply reprimanded Mr. Cobb for his indiscretion, the people said.

Only Trump would hire a legal team that wasnt smart enough to keep their public conversations quiet in a popular public place. It is Washington, DC. There is a good chance that there could be journalists in a popular restaurant.

Not only is Trump in way over his head, but his legal team looks to be overmatched by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. A President who once boasted that he hires the best people cant even find lawyers who dont loudly argue with each other in public.

The public White House line is that the Russia scandal is nothing, but the behavior of Trumps lawyers is telling a different story. The pressure is getting to the White House. They cant hide from the scandal. Dismissing the Russia story only makes it stronger, and the lawyers that are supposed to keep Trump from getting impeached cant stop fighting with each other.

The writing is increasingly visible on the wall. The Russia scandal is not going to end well for Trump.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 61F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Thunder possible. Low 54F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Emanuel AMEs former secretary is suing the church and the Rev. Norvel Goff for ending her employment after she questioned the handling of donations that poured into the church after a gunman killed nine worshippers. Read moreFormer secretary at Emanuel AME sues for unpaid wages
Across the U.S., women veterans share some of the same experiences, including PTSD, sexual trauma and other inequities related to a culture of gender bias in the military. Women veterans in the Lowcountry are no different, which is why Brooke Jackson Kahn started her nonprofit, She's the Veteran. Read moreWomen veterans often feel overlooked, lack mental health treatment and other resources
Feel free to let sleeping dogs lie  as long as they're not snuggling up next to you in bed.

That, at least, is the conclusion of a new Mayo Clinic study, titled "The Effect of Dogs on Human Sleep in the Home Sleep Environment."

Pets in the bedroom is a fraught topic, as Dr. Lois Krahn, a sleep medicine specialist on Mayo Clinic's Arizona campus, found.

"Sleep physicians are adamant that having a pet in the bedroom is a bad idea, period," she said.

However, she noticed that many of her patients admitted snuggling up to their pets anyway.

ADVERTISEMENT

The study followed 40 healthy adults and their dogs over the period of five months. Each person and dog wore an activity tracker to record their sleep habits for seven nights.

The conclusion: Having a dog in the bedroom can help some people sleep better. However, benefits stop as soon as the dog gets onto the bed. For a better night's sleep  that is, for the human  dog owners may want to set up a separate doggy bed where their pup can snooze alone.

Krahn said the study excluded dogs younger than six months, as well as pets with medical conditions that could require medication to be administered at night.

"The relationship between people and their pets has changed over time, which is likely why many people, in fact, do sleep with their pets in the bedroom," Krahn said in the press release. "And now, pet owners can find comfort knowing it won't negatively impact their sleep."

Having a dog shifting around under the covers, or a cat walk over an owner's face at the crack of dawn, can have an obvious negative impact on owners' sleep.

About 10 percent of pet owners reported nighttime disturbances from their pets in 2013, when Krahn used a survey to gauge the nocturnal habits of her patients and their pets.

She expressed interest in studying people who do not have a "human bed partner" or tend to let a pet sleep in their room or bed on nights when their spouse or partner is away. Anecdotally, she's aware that some people will accept a furry replacement, but there's no data on the subject yet.

"How does a dog in the room make them feel in the absence of a human bed partner?" she asked.

ADVERTISEMENT

One portion of the study that "delighted" Krahn? The way dog-lovers in the Mayo Clinic buildings in Arizona came crawling out of the woodwork.

Instead of reaching out to the general public for study members, Krahn said many of the test subjects in her study were staff members in other departments, which allowed her to get to know other people in the office.

"Some people describe their pet as a source of comfort and security," Krahn said in a Mayo Clinic video. "But be very careful that you do not place the needs of the pet over your own needs to get a good night's sleep."
DENVER, Colo.  Mayo Clinic brought home two prestigious honors from a recent national event thanks to its quality and accountability in patient care.

Mayo earned the Vizient 2017 Bernard A. Birnbaum, M.D. Quality Leadership award as its Rochester campus earned the No. 1 spot among all academic medical centers and Mayo Clinic Health System in Red Wing finished first among all community hospitals.

The awards were announced Thursday at the 2017 Clinical Connections Summit in Denver.

"We're honored that Mayo Clinic hospitals received the 2017 Quality Leadership Award," said Dr. Paula Santrach, Mayo's chief quality officer. "The unique Mayo experience is the dedication to quality, safety and service that our staff displays each day. Their hard work and firm commitment to excellence will make us even better in the future."

Last month, Mayo was voted No. 1 in the U.S. News & World Report's 2017-18 Best Hospital rankings, which is widely considered the gold standard in the healthcare field. It was the third time in four years Mayo has earned that distinction.

ADVERTISEMENT

The leadership award was created in 2015 by Vizient, which is a combination of a health care network of not-for-profit hospitals, an alliance of the nation's leading academic medical centers, and the health care contracting company  Novation  they jointly own.

The award is based on the results of a quality and accountability study aimed at helping hospitals improve their patient care. The six areas of study  safety, timeliness, effectiveness, equity and patient-centeredness  are determined by the Institute of Medicine's guidelines.

Data was examined from Vizient, the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Healthcare Safety Network.

"Although no single set of measures can perfectly represent health care quality, we are proud to be recognized with this quality leadership award and grateful to our staff," said Brian Whited, who was promoted earlier this year to CEO of MCHS in Cannon Falls, Lake City and Red Wing. "What we take the most pride in is what this ranking means for our patients, Red Wing and surrounding communities.

"It validates that patients receive exceptional Mayo Clinic care close to home for the majority of the health care they will need throughout their lifetime."
Republican gubernatorial candidates will be busy trying to win over local activists during an upcoming party picnic.

The Republican Party of Olmsted County will host its annual picnic on Tuesday night. Local GOP party Chairman Aaron Miller said almost all the gubernatorial candidates have told him they plan to show up. He said it is a critical opportunity for candidates to talk one-on-on with the party faithful.

"It's probably the most important event that we have in Olmsted for the candidates all summer long, and it might be the most important one we have all year in a non-election year," Miller said.

For candidates competing in a crowded field, the picnic offers a chance to stand out from the pack. There are more than a half dozen Republicans running for governor in 2018. The list includes state Sen. Dave Osmek of Mound, former Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Keith Downey, Hennepin County Commissioner and 2014 gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson and Dellwood Rep. Matt Dean.

Winning big in Olmsted County has always been seen as important for Republican gubernatorial candidates. In 2006, then-Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty did well, getting 55 percent of the vote in Olmsted County compared to DFLer Mike Hatch's 39 percent. In 2014, Johnson did beat DFL Gov. Mark Dayton in Olmsted County but by a much smaller margin. Johnson got nearly 50 percent of the vote compared to Dayton's 45 percent.

ADVERTISEMENT

Candidates for other statewide offices and congress are also likely to make appearances. Republican Party of Minnesota Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan is also expected to attend, according to Miller.

Liebling: No tax breaks for Amazon

Gubernatorial candidate and Rochester Rep. Tina Liebling is speaking out against efforts to lure an Amazon headquarters to Minnesota with tax incentives. The online retail giant recently announced it was soliciting bids from cities across North America as it decides where to build a second headquarters. The company says it would invest $5 billion into building the headquarters and would employ 50,000 people.

DFL Gov. Mark Dayton has said his administration plans to offer a "restrained bid" to entice Amazon to Minnesota. He noted Amazon is a competitor of two other Minnesota-based companies  Best Buy and Target.

But Liebling said Minnesota should stay out of the tax-incentive sweepstakes.

"I respectfully disagree with Gov. Dayton's planned participation in the 'Amazon sweepstakes.' Minnesota is a great state for business, with a hard-working and well educated workforce, good schools, and a high quality of life. We should not and need not offer tax breaks to huge corporations that give them further advantages over Main Street businesses," she said in a statement.

Liebling added this situation highlights the need to elect a "true progressive" as governor who will "continue a move toward prosperity for all, not special breaks for huge corporations like Amazon."

ADVERTISEMENT
ST. ANTHONY  The Justice Department says it is changing a program that helped troubled police departments build community trust, creating uncertainty about the future of a review requested by the St. Anthony Police Department in the wake of the 2016 shooting of Philando Castile.

City Manager Mark Casey said he doesn't know what the change means, but the city is still committed to making improvements.

The Justice Department announced Friday it will roll back an Obama-era "collaborative reform" program under which departments voluntarily went through wholesale reviews and received non-binding recommendations for improvements in areas such as use-of-force and de-escalating confrontations. Instead, the program will focus on helping cities arrest violent criminals and dismantle gangs.

Some cities had found the collaborative reform program helped in repairing frayed relationships with communities after racially-charged incidents. But the Justice Department under Attorney General Jeff Sessions determined it had become adversarial toward police and counter-productive to helping cities drive down violence.

The change takes effect immediately.

ADVERTISEMENT

Officials from St. Anthony plan to speak with representatives of the Justice Department on Monday to discuss what this means for the city's review. A Justice Department official said if St. Anthony choses to continue the process, its Community Oriented Policing Services office would help the city transition into the new program.

DOJ officials have already held several listening sessions in St. Anthony and heard citizens' concerns. Community observers had expected the report to be finished by October.

Kristine Lizdas, a member of St. Anthony Villagers for Community Action, said she had hoped a report would come out before the program was killed.

"The COPS office is sitting on a tremendous amount of information, and it's heartbreaking to think of the thousands of hours that went in," she said. "It's devastating when you think of the amount of time COPS staff, and their contract technical assistance providers, spent in St. Anthony alone."

The city asked for the review after the shooting of Castile, who was killed in July 2016 by St. Anthony police officer Jeronimo Yanez after Castile told the officer he was armed. The shooting's gruesome aftermath was streamed live on Facebook by Castile's girlfriend.

Yanez was acquitted of manslaughter charges in June and no longer works for the police department.
I think we have a bone to pick with Google, but I am grateful for the Google doodle reminding us that today is the anniversary of the birth of Samuel Johnson. On the occasion of the 300th anniversary last year, Alan Jacobs offered the fine Books & Culture tribute Man of sorrow.

I awakened to Johnson under the tutelage of Professor Jeffrey Hart, who required us to absorb Johnsons great essay on Soame Jenynss Free Enquiry Into the Nature and Origin of Evil. Memory of Jenynss otherwise forgettable book lives on thanks to the explosion it triggered in Johnson. Johnsons essay is available online in a form edited by Jack Lynch, a scholar of Johnson and eighteenth-century English literature.

Johnson is one of the great literary figures of all time, though it took James Boswell to translate that greatness into the pages of a book, in what has to be the greatest biography ever written. Adam Sismans account of the writing of the biography is an entertaining companion to Boswells Life of Johnson.

In our own day, Walter Jackson Bate brought Johnson to life in a Pulitzer Prize-winning biography that was also a labor of love. Bate retired after a distinguished career at Harvard in 1986 and died in 1999. Thanks to my high school classmate and friend Michael Frost, I attended Bates famous lecture on the death of Johnson in Bates undergraduate course on the period. It was said to reduce the coeds to tears, but I wasnt immune myself.

The discovery of Boswells voluminous journals at Malahide Castle in the 1920s led to the publication of Boswells papers by Yale University Press in a series that appears to be endless. Boswells London Journal (1762-1763) proved to be a surprise best-seller upon its publication in 1950. (It was racier than whatever Harold Robbins had on the bestseller list that year.) George MacDonald Frasers explanatory note on the discovery of the Flashman papers provides a comic variation on the saga of the Boswell papers.

Johnsons own most famous work must be his Dictionary of the English Language. Johnson sought to introduce some fixity into the English language. I recall Professor Harts citation of the concern expressed in the phrase, As Chaucer is so shall Shakespeare be. I cant find the expression online and must be mangling it. Hart credited the Dictionary with stabilizing the language to some extent. Thankfully, eighteenth-century English remains accessible to us without much need for further explanation. The only true obstacle may be our own blindness to the permanent things.

To return to Jenynss book, something in it set Johnson off. Jenynss glib optimism (as Bate called it) in the face of human suffering, and his complacency over the problem that human suffering poses to religious belief, struck a nerve. Reading by or about Johnson is an exercise in humane learning. To paraphrase Johnson on London, he who is tired of Johnson is tired of life.
Im not sure why anyone would watch a televised awards show, and I wouldnt have dreamed of seeing tonights Emmy show, which was advertised as a Trump hate-fest. The program is being hosted by Stephen Colbert, who has revived his career by doing pretty much nothing other than ripping the president.

Presumably you didnt see it either, but the Associated Presss account confirms that we didnt miss anything:

Saturday Night Live was triumphing early at Sundays Emmy Awards for a season of skewering President Donald Trump, while the ceremony and host Stephen Colbert did likewise.

I remember the first time we won this award, creator Lorne Michaels said in accepting the shows trophy for best variety sketch series. It was after the first season in 1976. I remember thinking  this was the high point, and there would never be another season as crazy, as unpredictable, as frightening, as exhausting or as exhilarating. Turns out I was wrong.

The trophies for best supporting comedy acting went to Kate McKinnon, who played Hillary Clinton on SNL, and Alec Baldwin for his Trump portrayal on the NBC show.

McKinnon thanked Clinton for her grace and grit. Baldwin spoke directly to Trump, who has complained in the past that he was cheated out of a trophy for hosting Celebrity Apprentice: I suppose I should say at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.

Melissa McCarthy was honored at last weekends creative arts Emmys as best guest actress for her SNL work, including portraying Sean Spicer. The former White House press secretary made a surprise Emmys appearance, wheeling in his own podium.

This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person and around the world, Spicer shouted with authority, echoing his claim that Trumps inauguration crowd was the biggest ever and evoking McCarthys manic portrayal of him.

Colberts song-and-dance opening  with help from Chance the Rapper  included the song Everything Is Better on TV, which repeatedly slammed Trump, mentioning his ties to Russia and including the lyric even treason is better on TV.

John Lithgow, who received the best supporting drama actor for his role as British leader Winston Churchill in The Crown, took a more diplomatic approach to political commentary.

Most of all I have to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life, even as an old man, reminds us what courage and leadership in government really looks like, Lithgow said.
Qatar sign up for 24 Typhoons

During a visit to the Gulf state today, Sir Michael Fallon and his Qatari counterpart, Khalid bin Mohammed al Attiyah, signed a Statement of Intent concerning Qatars proposed purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft........Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:After a number of years of negotiations between our two countries, I am delighted to have been able to sign today with Qatars Defence Minister, this Statement of Intent on the purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft by Qatar.This will be the first major defence contract with Qatar, one of the UKs strategic partners. This is an important moment in our defence relationship and the basis for even closer defence co-operation between our two countries. We also hope that this will help enhance security within the region across all Gulf allies and enhance Typhoon interoperability across the GCC.The security of the GCC, of all Gulf countries, is critical to the UKs own security.....


Pobierz zdjecie Przeczytaj o zasadach pobierania zdjec Krzysztof Szczerski  Secretary of State  Chief of the Cabinet of the President (1)

President Andrzej Duda's speech at the United Nations General Assembly in the United States will be "built" around Poland's future membership of the UN Security Council, the Polish president's top aide, Krzysztof Szczerski, said on Monday.

President Duda will visit the United States on Tuesday-Thursday and take part in the general debate of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The presidential minister noted that, as of the next year, Poland will become a member of the UN Security Council, "the world's most important decision-making body as regards world peace".

"The president will naturally give his thanks for the decision to include Poland on this body, and will outline the most important guidelines and considerations of Poland's membership of the UN Security Council and the Polish contribution to its work", Krzysztof Szczerski declared.

Minister Szczerski said that Andrzej Duda's UN speech would largely focus on the notion of freedom as a route to peace. "The president will also point out new types of threats to international security, such as the interference of third countries and external organisations in the democratic processes of sovereign states", the presidential minister announced.

The United Nations General Assembly chose Poland in a secret ballot for a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2018-19. Poland was the only candidate from the group of Eastern European countries that applied for UNSC membership. May be of interest to you Massive support for Polands candidacy to UN Security Council speaks about Polands strong position

Krzysztof Szczerski told a press conference on Monday that the Polish president's agenda featured several bilateral meetings. His partners will include Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite and Ukrainian head of state Viktor Poroshenko.

Andrzej Duda and Grybauskaite are to discuss the ongoing Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2017 military manoeuvres. "The meeting will be held at the request of President Grybauskaite", Szczerski noted.

President Duda will also hold talks with his Armenian counterpart and several other leaders.

"There will also be an opportunity to talk both to the US president and vice-president", Szczerski noted, specifying those would be more informal meetings during an official dinner and a lunch.

Duda will also meet members of the Polish diaspora in the US on two occasions, according to the aide.

Apart from that, the Polish head of state will talk to representatives of major US investment funds and will encourage them to invest in Poland and the Three Seas region.

An important point on Duda's agenda will be his visit to US military academy West Point on the occasion of the 2017 Year of Kosciuszko. The Polish president is scheduled to address the academy cadets, Krzysztof Szczerski also said. (PAP)
POINT LOOKOUT, N.Y.  A Long Island beach where people gathered and watched in horror as the distant World Trade Center towers collapsed Sept. 11, 2001, is the site of the latest memorial to victims of the terror attacks and among a growing number that honor people who died of illnesses years after participating in the rescue and recovery effort.

The monument, built by the town of Hempstead near the Atlantic Ocean on Long Islands south shore, features a twisted, 30-foot-tall beam of Trade Center steel, an elevated walkway and granite plaques engraved with the names of the nearly 3,000 people who died in the attacks.

A separate plaque will have the names of 582 police officers, firefighters, construction workers, cleanup volunteers and others who spent time in the rubble of the World Trade Center in the days or months after the attacks and, years later, died of a variety of causes that they, their families or their doctors suspected were linked to toxic ash and smoke at the site. There will be room to add more names.

I think what the town of Hempstead is doing is nothing short of honorable, said John Feal, a longtime advocate for 9/11 responders with health problems. People who lost a loved one to illness suffer just like someone lost on that day. Hopefully this will offer some ease and comfort to them.

Hempstead officially dedicated its $1.3 million memorial at a service on Sept. 11, the 16th anniversary of the attacks. It joins a short but growing list of similar memorials recognizing people who fell ill after participating in the rescue and recovery operation.

In May, officials at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum announced plans to set aside a commemorative space at the World Trade Center to honor rescue and recovery workers.

New Yorks police and fire departments also have memorials for personnel who have died of illnesses since Sept. 11. A 9/11 memorial in Staten Island recently added a plaque with the names of residents there who have died of illnesses.

Feals charitable organization also maintains a memorial wall to 9/11 responders in Nesconset, New York.

I truly believe that everyone there that day was a hero, said Robert Gies, who was 13 when his father, New York City Fire Department Lt. Ronnie Gies, died in the south tower. Whether they died on 9/11 or four years later, every person is a hero. Those people who worked there in the aftermath in those hazardous conditions, those people touch my heart. They rushed there to save and find my father. They found him and he was able to be laid to rest. Thats huge closure.

Researchers continue to study the long-term health impact on people exposed to sooty air at the Trade Center site.

Determining how many people had serious illnesses directly linked to that exposure is a challenge, especially because many of the people involved are now of an age where health problems, like cancer, are quite common.

About 30,000 people have applied to the government compensation fund for people with illnesses they think might be related to 9/11. Officials overseeing the fund still are reviewing those claims but have so far awarded $3 billion. About 2,700 of the 17,400 people whose claims have been approved have cancer.

Through the end of August, 144 of the approved claims involved someone who died of an illness that made them eligible for compensation.

That doesnt mean the government has concluded that their illness was definitely caused by toxins unleashed on 9/11. The program was designed to cover anyone who could show they were exposed to World Trade Center smoke, dust and ash and was subsequently diagnosed with an illness that, at least theoretically, might be caused by some of the chemicals present at the site.

Hempstead officials said criteria for inclusion on their memorial mirrored rules set by Feal for a similar list of dead that he maintains.

In addition to the steel beam, planted like a flag, and the plaques with names, the memorial park includes a table inscribed with the Walt Whitman poem On the Beach at Night.

The east side of the park features a pear tree grown from a seedling from the so-called Survivor Tree that lived through the destruction at ground zero.

Another plaque will point in the direction of the rebuilt World Trade Center, visible 24 miles in the distance.

Having it on the beach at Point Lookout, the same place where hundreds of people assembled in the wake of the terrorist attacks, makes it uniquely compelling, town supervisor Anthony Santino said.
An arraignment for Egg Harbor Township endocrinologist Dr. James Kauffman, scheduled for Thursday, has been postponed, according to the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office.

Kauffman, of Linwood, was indicted earlier this month on weapons charges and one obstruction charge stemming from a June 13 search warrant executed by the Prosecutors Office, with FBI agents and local police agencies.

The Prosecutors Office did not give a reason for the postponement but said a new date will be provided when it becomes available. Kauffman was set to appear before Judge Bernard DeLury in Atlantic County Criminal Court.

Kauffman, 68, has been in custody since his arrest in June after a 45-minute armed standoff with police as they attempted to execute a search warrant at his medical office.

During the incident, Kauffman drew a Ruger 9mm handgun and pointed it toward his chest while police negotiated with him, authorities said.

He eventually surrendered, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, possession of hollow-point bullets and obstruction of the administration of law.

Kauffman was married to veterans advocate and radio host April Kauffman when she was found slain in their home in 2012. The doctor has not been named as a suspect in the case, and authorities have said the June 13 warrants were unrelated to their ongoing investigation into the homicide.

In early August, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner said the search of Kauffmans office in June was partially related to an investigation of alleged prescription drug-compounding fraud involving public employees in Atlantic City, Margate and Ventnor.

Drug compounding is a process in which a pharmacist or doctor alters or mixes ingredients into a custom drug, according to the federal Food & Drug Administration.

Little information has been released about the countys investigation, but federal authorities also have been investigating health-benefits fraud in three Absecon Island municipalities, including Atlantic City, during the past few months and have made five plea agreements with individuals involved in the scheme.
OCEAN CITY  Beach patrols and emergency management coordinators across the region are keeping a close eye on Tropical Storm Jose as it grazes the Jersey Shore this week, bringing with it wind, rough surf and coastal flooding.

City crews are blocking dune crossovers with sand, removing free-standing trash receptacles from the beaches and preparing barricades for streets that typically experience flooding, said Doug Bergen, Ocean City public information officer.

The remnants of Jose are expected to pass over the Jersey Shore and bring high winds into Tuesday night and moderate coastal flooding through Wednesday. Residents along the Delaware Bay in Cumberland and Salem counties also are forecast to receive minor coastal flooding.

Jim Eberwine, a former meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, said Jose will feel more like a noreaster than a hurricane for New Jersey.

The people here are used to this kind of thing, said Eberwine, who teaches meteorology classes at Atlantic Cape Community College.

He said to expect cool winds, gusts and a little rain, but that the biggest concern will be from the ocean and the bay.

Always in something like this where youre not going to get the full impact of the storm, you generally have to look at the tides, he said.

A new moon Wednesday will cause higher than normal tides, Eberwine said, which will lead to tidal flooding along roads. By Tuesday, tides will reach 2 feet above normal, he said.

In a public weather statement posted on Ocean Citys emergency management website Monday morning, officials warned of higher-than-normal tides and asked residents to move cars and secure outdoor items.

Forecasters project a Tuesday evening tide that could approach 7 feet on the mean low water scale. The January 2016 noreaster (Jonas), by comparison, reached 8.46 feet on the same scale. Tides during a storm on Jan. 23 of this year reached 7.22 feet, the warning stated.

In Atlantic City, Emergency Management Coordinator and Fire Chief Scott Evans said that due to the warm September weather, there is still a big concern for beachgoers during the storm.

The storm Jose approaching from the south is increasing the threat, and the rip currents are more dangerous. People that are in knee-high water are just getting swept out, Evans said.

He said the Atlantic City Beach Patrol staff at least 10 beaches this week, but the patrol may decide to close beaches as necessary.

There are hundreds of people on the beaches daily. The weekend was a very busy weekend. Lots of people come to the resort in September because the weather is still summer-like weather and the water is still warm, Evans said.

Beach erosion is expected along the coast. Evans lamented the expected sand loss as a beach-replenishment project in Atlantic City is wrapping up.

You will see tears running down our eyes because we will be losing beach. There will be beach erosion, its just to what degree? Evans said.

Ocean City is expecting a north-end beach fill this fall, and Bergen said any sand lost from Jose will be added to the upcoming project.

Evans said he is concerned about stacking tides, where high tides dont have a chance to drain out before the next one comes in, which escalates flooding. In preparation of the storm, high-water response vehicles will be staged in the city, Evans said.

At the request of the citys Office of Emergency Management, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority will provide free parking at the Wave Parking Garage, located at Mississippi and Fairmount avenues, for all area residents and visitors through 6 a.m. Thursday in preparation for the impending high-tide flooding conditions.

Parking will only be permitted between the second and top floors of the garage during this time. Parking on the first floor will be prohibited due to the possibility of flooding.

Were treating this right now to be a minor northeastern storm, which could quickly turn into a moderate northeastern storm, Evans said.

Evans asked the public to keep vigilant.

Please pay attention to the weather reports. The storm could change, he said.
Ventnor native Matt Brown returned to Rutgers University this month after completing ROTC training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, in August  exactly 31 years after his father completed the same training and went back to the same school.

His father, Assemblyman Chris Brown, R-Atlantic, is witnessing his son follow in the footsteps he took three decades ago that led to a career as a soldier in Iraq, a lawyer, a judge, a state assemblyman and now possibly a state senator in Trenton.

Ive never really thought about not serving in the military, said Matt Brown, who turned 21 in March. Its just always something I wanted to do and something I feel is a great honor for this country.

This fall, the younger Brown will continue to work on completing his communications degree at Rutgers while training with the 50th Chemical Company in Somerset. As part of his ROTC obligation, Brown serves as a cadet in the National Guard. Once he receives his commission, he will select his Military Operational Skill and train for six months in the Army.

In 2008, Chris Brown was 44 years old with a wife and three children, a law practice and was serving as a municipal court judge in Galloway Township when he received orders to report to Fort Jackson, South Carolina, to prepare for deployment as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

It had been 18 years to the month since he was activated for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm as part of the 253rd National Guard unit based in Cape May Court House.

Brown gave up his judgeship and left his law firm and family to report to Fort Jackson. After several months, the Army realized it legally had to promote Brown to lieutenant colonel or relieve him of his obligation to go to Iraq because he had been at the rank of major for too long.

The Army decided to let Brown go home to South Jersey.

Chris Brown, a Republican, is now officially retired from the Army with the rank of major. He is running against Democratic Senator-select Colin Bell in Novembers elections for the 2nd District seat in the state Senate.

The younger Brown said his father being away for an extended period left an impression on him, and further solidified that he wanted to join the military when he was old enough.

I remember my mother crying when he left, and its always tough on families when someone leaves to serve in the military, Matt Brown said. But I think it just shows how important serving is.

The younger Brown will officially begin his Army career upon receiving his commission this spring. Once he completes his six months of active duty next fall, he will fulfill his six-year commitment as an officer with a National Guard unit.

He then plans to go to law school and be a civil lawyer like his father. His younger brother, Danny, who is 19, wants to follow his brother and father and go to Rutgers and join the military.

The youngest Brown, Mallory, who is 17, has no plans to attend Rutgers or join the military.

Im still working on her, Chris Brown joked.
MILLVILLE  Three Cumberland County residents were injured in two separate shootings Friday night, police said.

Officers responded about 10:30 p.m. to a report of shots fired in the 400 block of East Mulberry Street, where they found a 46-year-old woman shot in the ankle and a 30-year-old man shot in the leg, Detective Lt. Ross Hoffman said.

An investigation revealed the two Millville residents were standing in front of a home on the block when someone fired at them from across the street, Hoffman said. There are no suspects at this time.

The woman was taken to Inspira Medical Center Vineland. The man was taken to Cooper University Hospital in Camden in stable condition, Hoffman said.

While officers were processing the scene on East Mulberry Street, a second shooting happened about 11 p.m. on the 300 block of North Third Street, Hoffman said.

A 42-year-old man from the Rosenhayn section of Deerfield Township suffered three graze wounds to the neck and one to the abdomen, Hoffman said. He was taken to Cooper University Hospital in stable condition.

An investigation revealed the man was standing in front of a home on the block when somebody shot at him from across the street, Hoffman said. There are no known suspects at this time.

Police do not know if the shootings are related.

Anyone with information is asked to call Millville police at 856-825-7010, the tip line at 856-825-2182 or text millvillepd and the tip to TIP411.
The tragic mishandling of the water system in Flint, Michigan, made the nation aware last year of the risk of lead in drinking water. That prompted the discovery that half the school buildings in Newark  which average 92 years old  had elevated levels of lead in their drinking water.

Soon, other districts found excessive lead in the water at schools, and Gov. Chris Christie in May 2016 ordered mandatory testing for lead by all public schools in the state. The state Board of Education adopted the regulation a couple of months later, giving districts 365 days to do the tests  by July 13, 2017. Now the results are flowing to the state Department of Education, and as expected, levels of lead exceeding federal standards have been found.

As of the end of August, the department told NJ Spotlight, 201 districts have notified the state that 397 schools have been found with unsafe levels of lead in their drinking water.

Lead can get into drinking water from old lead pipes or from systems that used lead-based solder to connect pipes. Neither was banned from use in the United States until 1986, so buildings that predate the ban may well have lead issues.

Given that, finding excess lead in about 400 schools may be a pretty good result, if it stands. There are 678 districts in the state and 2,518 schools, so the number where lead was found so far is less than one-fifth.

Unfortunately, districts are only required to report positive tests, so comparative analysis isnt possible. The nonprofit New Jersey Future, which has been tracking the school lead issue, has urged the state to collect all the data and standardize it.

Once lead is found, solutions can be quick (provide bottled water), a little more involved (install filters) or permanent and expensive (replace the problematic plumbing and water mains). Rowan University, which last year found lead in the water of nine buildings, provides an example.

Comprehensive testing of all 43 Rowan buildings didnt find any lead problems beyond the original nine student residences. From the start, the university provided students with bottled water (377,000 bottles by last spring). The school approved spending $2 million on remedies, which have included installing water fountains and bottle-filling stations with filters. Since then, officials have looked into whole-building filters and replacement of water mains.

The state mandate also requires each school to report the results of their lead tests on their websites and notify parents and families, so that information should show up soon.

The Joint Legislative Task Force on Drinking Water Infrastructure said the lead problems have been found in all kinds of schools  urban, suburban, rural  and throughout the state.

The state provided $10 million to fund the lead testing, and since not all that money was drawn, it looks like it was enough. That was money well spent for the children attending those 397 schools where safe drinking water is now being provided.
ALBANY, New York, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

The Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market is foretold to gain impetus from the enactment of government statutes such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley (GLB) Act which require financial companies to ensure the confidentiality and security of customers' personal data. Such customer data could include social security numbers (SSNs), credit histories, income, account numbers, phone numbers, addresses, and names. Furthermore, a heightened response is expected from financial firms looking at the soaring prevalence and sophistication of cybercrimes since the last decade and a half.

The global financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is forecasted to register a CAGR of 14.1% during the forecast timeframe 2017-2022. By 2022 end, the market could post a revenue of US$24.3 bn. In 2017, it earned around US$12.5 bn.

Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Major Insights

The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisioned to be labeled as a faster and larger-growing one for private sector cybersecurity. Banks and financial institutions such as Bank of America are foreseen to set no bar or constraint on cybersecurity outlay due to the urgency of the time and briskly widening reach of cybercrimes. The American Bankers Association Banking Journal reported in 2016 that cyber-related threats are now ranked higher by CEOs than those associated with energy prices, asset bubbles, and fiscal crisis. Force point, in its 2015 Industry Drill Down Report, claimed that security incidents in the financial services industry occur 300 times more frequently than in other business sectors.

The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisaged to award mobile enterprise management as a commanding segment expected to secure a stronger revenue of US$4.7 bn by 2022. However, there could be more markets for financial services cybersecurity systems and services as per solution and services segmentation showing face. These could be endpoint security, identity and access management, mobile security, security information and event management, content security, data loss prevention (DLP), datacenter security, and firewall.

Avail a PDF Sample for this Research Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=30866

According to end user classification, the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is predicted to offer opportunities in segments such as banking, insurance, credit unions, stock brokerages, stock exchange, investment funds, consumer financing services, payment card and mobile payment services, and government-related financial services.

Regionally, North America is prognosticated to make the cut in the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market with a revenue of US$7.6 bn prophesied to be garnered by the end of 2022. Other markets such as Europe and Japan could also offer promising prospects in the coming years.

Download Report TOC at https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/30866

Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Vendor Landscape

Companies operating in the worldwide financial services cybersecurity systems and services market are anticipated to cash in on the opportunities birthing from building robust risk and security management programs for financial institutions. Such programs could help financial firms to empower their IT security while enjoying the confidence to innovate and compete strongly in their business. Vendors such as VMware, Inc., Akamai Technologies, Inc., Alert Logic, Inc., AlienVault, Inc., and Avast Software S.R.O. could be among the top names in the market. The report provides an all-inclusive profile account of each vendor studied.

Top Research Report by TMR:

Proximity Mobile Payment Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html Public Cloud Business Process Services Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/public-cloud-business-process-services-market.html

About Us

Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The company's exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend 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.

TMR's 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

Transparency Market Research

State Tower,

90 State Street,

Suite 700,

Albany NY - 12207

United States

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com





Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

TMR Blog: http://www.editiontruth.com/

http://www.techyounme.com/

SOURCE Transparency Market Research
TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2017 /CNW/ - Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX:JAG) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an accelerated earn-in agreement (the "Agreement") with Avanco Resources Limited ("Avanco") (ASX:AVB), pursuant to which Avanco will earn up to a 100% ownership interest in the Gurupi Project ("Gurupi" or the "Project") after meeting some short-term milestones and making a series of payments to Jaguar. The Project is located in the state of Maranhao, Brazil, and includes the Cipoeiro and Chega Tudo deposits found in a mainly unexplored 72-kilometre trend. Jaguar, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, holds mineral concessions totaling 140,332 hectares. The last feasibility study on the Project was prepared on January 31, 2011, by TechnoMine Services LLC, which is filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

Main Terms of the Accelerated Earn-in Agreement

Upon the satisfactory completion of certain closing conditions, the Agreement provides Avanco with the right to earn 100% of Jaguar's interest in the Project by paying to Jaguar an aggregate cash payment of US$4 million in two instalments of US$2 million each. Upon achieving clear title and access to the Project, Jaguar will receive in aggregate an additional US$5 million of cash payments, received in a series of 10 instalments of US$500,000 per month. The majority of the Avanco US$9 million in payments are expected to be paid to Jaguar in 2017 and 2018 fiscal years.

Within 24 months of the initial US$4 million payment, Avanco will arrange to have published an Australian Joint Ore Reserve Committee (JORC) code compliant technical report completed regarding the Project with mineral reserves in excess of 500,000 ounces of gold. Any delay in this milestone will result in a project delay fee payable to Jaguar of US$250,000 per six months of delayed period. Within 60 months of the initial US$4 million payment, Avanco will aim to commission the Gurupi mine and plant. Any delay in this commissioning milestone will result in a separate project delay fee payable to Jaguar of US$250,000 per six months of delayed period.

Consistent with the original earn-in agreement, Jaguar will retain a life of mine Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty ("Royalty") from production at Gurupi. The Royalty will be 1% NSR on the first 500,000 ounces of gold or gold ounce equivalents sold; 2% NSR on sales from 500,001 to 1,500,000 ounces of gold or gold ounce equivalents; and 1% NSR on gold sales exceeding 1,500,000 ounces of gold or gold ounce equivalents.

The Agreement will provide Avanco with control over the Project earlier than planned in the previous earn-in agreement, empowering Avanco to move the asset into production in a timely and expedited manner. Cash proceeds received by Jaguar from this accelerated Agreement will be used to repay the Company's higher-cost Brazilian debt facility, improve working capital, and reduce its financing repayment obligations in 2017 and 2018.

Rodney Lamond, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jaguar commented, "We are pleased to announce an accelerated earn-in agreement with Avanco that should result in the development and commissioning of a mine at the Gurupi Project earlier than anticipated. This Agreement provides Jaguar with accelerated cash payments while retaining the significant exploration upside potential this property possesses through the life of mine NSR Royalty. The cash proceeds from Avanco will be applied immediately towards reducing the Company's higher-cost Brazilian debt facility, improving working capital, and strengthening our balance sheet. We are pleased with the recent improvements in the Company's mine operations which continue to generate operating cash flow. Today's announcement provides additional confidence that the Company is expected to maintain a positive working capital position going forward."

About Jaguar Mining Inc.

Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development, and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes, and a large land package with significant exploration potential from mineral claims covering an area of approximately 192,000 hectares. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais, and include the Turmalina Gold Mine Complex and Caete Gold Mine Complex, which combined produce approximately 95,000 ounces of gold annually. The Company also owns the Paciencia Gold Mine Complex, which has been on care and maintenance since 2012. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com.

About Avanco Resources Ltd.

Avanco is a Brazilian focused mining exploration and development company, targeting exploration and near- term production from copper and gold projects. Avanco's Board of Directors and Management team have extensive global resource industry experience, particularly in Northern Brazil where they have recently commissioned the Antas copper-gold mine on-schedule and under budget. Avanco has offices in Perth, Australia; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and Parauapebas, Brazil.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected", "is forecast", "is targeted", "approximately", "plans", "anticipates" "projects", "anticipates", "continue", "estimate", "believe" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. This press release contains forward-looking information regarding (1) the expectations regarding whether a transaction will be consummated, including whether conditions to the consummation of the transactions will be satisfied, or the timing for completing the transaction, (2) expectations for the effects of the transaction or the ability of the Company to successfully achieve business objectives, including the effects of unexpected costs, liabilities or delays, and if the transaction is completed, the ability of the Company to allocate the net proceeds as stated above, and (3) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking information involves a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which, if incorrect, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company, including, without limitation, the risks that the transaction as described in the Agreement may not be completed and the parties may be unable to realize on the anticipated benefits of the transaction. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking information made in this press release, see the Company's most recent annual information form and management's discussion and analysis, as well as other public disclosure documents that can be accessed under the issuer profile of "Jaguar Mining Inc." on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this press release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

CONTACT: Rodney Lamond, President & Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Mining Inc., rodney.lamond@jaguarmining.com, 416-847-1854; Hashim Ahmed, Chief Financial Officer, Jaguar Mining Inc., hashim.ahmed@jaguarmining.com, 416-847-1854

SOURCE Jaguar Mining Inc.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, September 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

A new report by executive search firm Metin Mitchell & Co highlights the confidence that Saudi women feel about their working futures and what needs to be done to increase the number of women in the workplace. This is a critical part of helping the Kingdom to achieve its transformational Vision 2030.

While the findings are specific to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the women's comments will resonate across the Gulf region.

Roads to the Top for Saudi Women is based on interviews with pioneering women from education, medicine, financial services, philanthropy, e-commerce and the professions. They shared experiences of their working lives and success and their perspectives of what the government, society and women themselves can do to encourage the next generation of working women. Interviews were carried out with HRH Princess Banderi bint Abdulrahman AlFaisal, Dr Amal Fatani, May bint Mohammed Al-Hoshan, Hala Kudwah, Dr Taghreed M Al-Saraj, Dr Sameera Maziad Al Tuwaijri and others.

Mr Metin Mitchell, founder of the executive search firm behind the report, said: "The women's comments will resonate across the Middle East - the big picture is similar across the region. The biggest challenge is how we support women into middle management to see a step change in achieving targets. Our female interviewees talked about the importance of role models and mentors. The other strong message is that women themselves are keen to help the Saudi government achieve its Vision 2030 targets - and they gave practical suggestions to do this."

Mr Mitchell says he has long been an advocate of women in the workplace: "I have seen first hand, in more than 20 years of headhunting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East, that time and again it is the women who are the outstanding candidates on our shortlists. I have been delighted to see them excel in their careers and become wonderful role models to the next generation of women.

"That is what this report is about. These early female leaders have a wealth of insights and expertise to help future female leaders - but also to give their perspective on how to speed up the rate that women progress in the workplace and use their skills to help the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia succeed in its ambitions."

Mr Mitchell believes that to increase the number of women working and in more senior roles there need to be flexible working patterns to combine family and work balance. He added: "Work needs to be measured by outcomes rather than hours worked. Women are very good at working remotely and delivering results - they don't always have to be in an office. A mentor should be appointed to new female recruits and HR and management need to look at how they hire for talent rather than experience."

HRH Princess Banderi bint Abdulrahman AlFaisal, Director General at King Khalid Foundation said: "We need to change some of the male and female stereotypes and set roles. People should be equal, it isn't your gender that matters, it's what you do and how and what you contribute to your family and society. We already see two-income households more and more in the country. Recently, especially in Vision 2030, the focus is on providing women with opportunities to study and work. Our society is changing and both men and women need to be open to change. I think female economic empowerment is very important for the future of our country."

Those interviewed stressed the importance of the family in the success of a woman. Many fathers encouraged and were the inspiration to their daughters, while supportive husbands have withstood cultural pressures to help their wives succeed. As one interviewee said, "The family unit will always remain the major portion of a holistic, stable society." To help, women would like to see quality childcare introduced at work.

The report includes tips from these trailblazing women for the next generation, ranging from the need to find a mentor to being confident about aiming for the boardroom if that is what a woman wants. There were also ideas about how women can help each other. One said: "I read an article that said in the Obama administration they had very few women, so they came up with a strategy to amplify their voice. If May says we should focus on the strategy of expanding in the eastern region then Noura, another woman in the room a few minutes later would repeat what May said to make sure May was heard. It can be as simple as reiterating what somebody else said in a meeting."

Mr Mitchell added: "These women were very clear about their own Saudi identity - they don't want to be the same as in the West or even the rest of the Middle East. They are proud of their country and their own role in its successful future."

Saudi Vision 2030 has a target to increase women's participation in the workforce from 22% to 30% - the government is delivering reforms to achieve this and encouraging changes in cultural practices to make them work.

The report, Roads to the Top for Saudi Women, can be downloaded free from http://www.metin-mitchell.com.

Notes to editors

About Metin Mitchell & Company

Metin Mitchell & Company is a Dubai-based executive search and management advisory firm working across the Middle East and North Africa. It specialises in recruiting board members, chief executives and other senior members of a company's management team and has particular expertise working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It produced an earlier report, What makes an Outstanding Saudi Chief Executive? based on interviews with leaders from a number of international organisations and leading companies in Saudi Arabia.

SOURCE Metin Mitchell & Company
The Public Investment Fund of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (PIF) today announced the launch of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. Hosted and organized by PIF, the Kingdom's main investment arm and one of the world's leading sovereign wealth funds, the FII will take place from 24th to 26th October 2017 in Riyadh. It will be a game-changing platform exploring the new trends, opportunities, challenges and emerging industries that will shape the world economy and investment environment over the coming decades.

(Photo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/557333/Future_Investment_Initiative_Infographic.jpg )



This inaugural FII will be held under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs and Chairman of PIF.

The invitation-only event will bring together internationally-renowned business and investment leaders. A number of high profile speakers have already been confirmed, covering major investors, global financial institutions and established and emerging businesses, including:

Larry Fink , Chairman and CEO, BlackRock

, Chairman and CEO, BlackRock Stuart Gulliver , Group Chief Executive, HSBC

, Group Chief Executive, HSBC Joe Kaeser , President and CEO, Siemens

, President and CEO, Siemens Tong Li, CEO, Bank of China

Masayoshi Son , Chairman and CEO, SoftBank Group

, Chairman and CEO, SoftBank Group George Whitesides , CEO, Virgin Galactic

The attendees will also include established players, new innovators and creators across key sectors that will shape the future global economy.

H.E. Yasir bin Othman Al-Rumayyan, Managing Director of PIF remarked:

"The Future Investment Initiative will provide an unprecedented opportunity for many leaders and influencers around the world to better understand the future of the global investment landscape. It will also act as a platform to showcase the PIF's redefined investment mandate and strategy, as it progresses towards becoming the world's largest sovereign wealth fund."

Through a highly collaborative and interactive program, over 2,000 attendees will discuss long-term investment and global trends across a broad range of topics. The event is designed around three key pillars: Shifting centers of power; the new investment paradigm and innovation for a better world.

The FII is being organized in the context of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a blueprint that is already charting the path for the Kingdom to harness its strategic location and strong investment capabilities. The core principles of the event are aligned with the strategic objectives and targets of the Kingdom's National Transformation Plan, which is key to achieving Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030.

About the Future Investment Initiative

Further details and updates about the event can be found at

http://www.futureinvestmentinitiative.com/en/home#

Social Media Platforms

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FII_by_PIF

Hashtag: #FII2017

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/18176488

Media Contact: media@futureinvestmentinitiative.com

About the Public Investment Fund:

In March 2015, the Council of Ministers issued a decree to transfer oversight of the Public Investment Fund to the Council of Economic and Development Affairs (CEDA). As part of this process, a new Board was appointed, chaired by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud.

To help achieve Saudi Arabia's vision of a sustainable, diversified economy, the Board of Directors has taken several steps to clearly define the Public Investment Fund's vision, objectives and strategy in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The Public Investment Fund is developing a portfolio of high quality domestic and international investments, diversified across sectors, geographies and asset classes. Working alongside global strategic partners and renowned investment managers, PIF acts as the Kingdom's main investment arm to deliver a strategy focused on achieving attractive financial returns and long-term value for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Public Investment Fund aims to be a global investment powerhouse and the world's most impactful investor, enabling the creation of new sectors and opportunities that will shape the future global economy, while driving the economic transformation of Saudi Arabia.

SOURCE Future Investment Initiative (FII)
The heightened need for digitally connecting seniors to healthcare services has sparked a recent debate on the pros and cons of expanding coverage of telehealth and telemedicine services under Medicare Parts A and B. Mandated by Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission will study the use of telehealth services and report findings by March 15, 2018.

Medicare plan members must be digitally connected in order for telemedicine services to be effective. However, The HealthMine survey also revealed that 79% of seniors do not have easy access to their electronic medical records.

Medicare plan members also revealed their communication preferences: 48% prefer to communicate with their plan via voice/phone, 31% prefer digital communication, and 21% prefer snail mail.

According to Bryce Williams, president and CEO of HealthMine, "These hurricanes have underscored the importance of every person being digitally connected to their health. We are working hand-in-hand with health plans to accelerate digital processes and analytics."

Prior to HealthMine, Williams was president and CEO of the nation's largest private Medicare Exchange. "In running the exchange, we learned every aspect of communicating with seniors including building and operating the most robust fully digitized call centers."

Williams added that collecting and analyzing every piece of data is how plans are driving new efficiencies for their business and better care for their plan members. "Real-time data analytics drives health intelligence. Health intelligence is what enables plans to help members improve their health."

About the Survey

The HealthMine Medicare Plan Health Intelligence Survey queried 500 insured 65+ consumers who are enrolled in a Medicare program. The survey was fielded by Survey Sampling International (SSI) in June/July 2017. Data were collected via an opt-in panel. The margin of error is 4%. Survey Sampling International (SSI) has been the Worldwide Leader in Survey Sampling and Data Collection Solutions, across every mode, for 37 Years.

About HealthMine

HealthMine is a leading healthcare technology company that delivers Health Intelligence for plan members and plan sponsors. HealthMine's cloud-based Health Intelligence Solution facilitates better health outcomes and lowers healthcare costs by providing: 1) insight into health status and risk, 2) clinical guidance on necessary health actions, 3) personalized motivation to close gaps in care and 4) measurement of outcomes. The Health Intelligence Solution derives business value from all clinical and lifestyle health data including data from existing wellness programs. HealthMine has more than 1 million users and has saved health plan sponsors more than $100 million in healthcare costs. HealthMine is on the web at www.healthmine.com.

SOURCE HealthMine, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.healthmine.com


RACINE, Wis., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SC Johnson today announced plans to make its global ingredient transparency program available to consumers in Latin America in 2018. This is welcome news to many who want more ingredient transparency. A recent survey* conducted by the company found that 97 percent of consumers in Brazil believe that ingredient transparency is important.

"SC Johnson continues to deliver on our promise to families by providing ingredient transparency that is both easily accessible and understandable," said Kelly M. Semrau, Senior Vice President  Global Corporate Affairs, Communication and Sustainability at SC Johnson. "We are glad that Brazilians find this important. That's why we're making this information available  it's the right thing to do."

Among global companies, SC Johnson's ingredient transparency program was the industry's first and continues to be the most comprehensive.

Speaking from the Sustainable Brands conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Semrau discussed SC Johnson's legacy of leadership in ingredient transparency. "We believe that every mother and father in Latin America should know what's inside the products they bring into their homes." SC Johnson's survey of more than 1,000 people across Brazil found that 93 percent think cleaning product companies should disclose more about the ingredients in their products.

SC Johnson Transparency Journey

SC Johnson began its transparency journey by launching its WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com ingredient website in 2009. The website offers consumers unparalleled access to a comprehensive list of product ingredients for such iconic brands as Glade, Pledge, OFF!, Raid, Windex, Mr Muscle, Scrubbing Bubbles, and Ziploc.

In 2012, it added a comprehensive list of fragrance ingredients used in its products. The SC Johnson Exclusive Fragrance Palette excludes about 2,400 ingredients that don't meet the company's high standards even though they meet industry standards and are legal in commerce.

In 2015, working closely with fragrance houses, SC Johnson added to its website product-specific fragrance disclosure. Consumers with questions can find on WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com the list of fragrances in individual SC Johnson products, across its categories. In 2016, the company expanded its disclosure program to Europe, with Asia coming soon and Latin America to follow next year.

In 2017, SC Johnson broke additional ground announcing its plans to disclose, on a product-specific basis, the presence of 368 skin allergens that may occur in its products. The list of these allergens has already been published on WhatsInsideSCJohnson.com, and by 2018, the site will list the allergens when contained in a product. This move goes beyond regulations in the European Union and also in the United States, where there are no rules requiring allergen transparency.

SC Johnson and Brazil

The Johnson family has a long personal connection to Brazil. In 1935, third-generation company leader H.F. Johnson, Jr. led an expedition up the Amazon in search of the Carnauba palm, whose wax was the principle ingredient in the company's products at the time. In 1998, fourth-generation leader Sam Johnson and his sons retraced the historic expedition.

SC Johnson has been operating in Brazil for more than 80 years. In that time, the company's manufacturing plant in Manaus has achieved zero landfill status, a protocol estimated to keep some 91 tons of refuse out of Brazilian landfills each year. In the 1990s, SC Johnson contributed to the protection of two reserves in Brazil's Caatinga ecoregion. Since then, as part of the company's work with and contributions to Conservation International, more than 100,000 acres of land have been conserved  much of that in the Amazon region. As part of a global commitment the company made to donate $15 million in product and financial support to combat mosquito-borne diseases, more than 100,000 units of insect repellent have been donated to charitable organizations in Brazil.

About SC Johnson

SC Johnson is a family company dedicated to innovative, high-quality products, excellence in the workplace and a long-term commitment to the environment and the communities in which it operates. Based in the USA, the company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of household cleaning products and products for home storage, air care, pest control and shoe care, as well as professional products. It markets such well-known brands as GLADE, KIWI, OFF!, PLEDGE, RAID, SCRUBBING BUBBLES, SHOUT, WINDEX and ZIPLOC in the U.S. and beyond, with brands marketed outside the U.S. including AUTAN, TANA, BAMA, BAYGON, BRISE, KABIKILLER, KLEAR, MR MUSCLE and RIDSECT. The 131-year-old company, which generates $10 billion in sales, employs approximately 13,000 people globally and sells products in virtually every country around the world. www.scjohnson.com

About Sustainable Brands

Sustainable Brands is the premier global community of brand innovators who are shaping the future of commerce worldwide. Since 2006, our mission has been to inspire, engage and equip today's business and brand leaders to prosper for the near and long term by leading the way to a better future. Digitally published news articles and issues-focused conversation topics, internationally known conferences and regional events, a robust e-learning library and peer-to-peer membership groups all facilitate community learning and engagement throughout the year. Sustainable Brands is hosted by Sustainable Brands Worldwide, a division of Sustainable Life Media headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

*SC Johnson commissioned Edelman Intelligence to conduct an online survey of adults in Brazil. This survey was fielded between August 28-31, 2017. The margin of error for this study (n=1,002) is +/-3.1% at the 95% confidence level.

SOURCE SC Johnson

Related Links

http://www.scjohnson.com


ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Abbott (NYSE: ABT) announced today that it is extending its previously announced tender offer to purchase for cash all outstanding shares of Series B Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock (the "Preferred Stock") of Alere Inc. ("Alere") at a price of $402.00 per share of Preferred Stock, plus accrued but unpaid dividends to, but not including, the settlement date of the tender offer, net to the seller thereof in cash, without interest thereon and subject to any withholding of taxes required by applicable law (the "Offer"). The Offer is being made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase, dated July 17, 2017 (the "Offer to Purchase"), and in connection with Abbott's previously announced agreement to acquire Alere (the "Merger"). The Merger is not conditioned upon, or otherwise subject to, the completion of the Offer.

The Offer is being extended to allow additional time for the consummation of the Merger, which is a condition to the completion of the Offer. The Offer was previously scheduled to expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017 and will now expire at 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017 (such date and time, as it may be extended or earlier terminated, the "Expiration Date"). If, at the Expiration Date, any of the conditions to the Offer have not been satisfied or waived, Abbott may elect to further extend the Offer for any length of time and in its sole discretion, but is under no obligation to do so.

American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC, the depositary for the Offer, has advised Abbott that, as of 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017, greater than 90% of the issued and outstanding shares of Preferred Stock had been tendered in the Offer. Holders of Preferred Stock who have already tendered their shares do not have to re-tender their shares or take any other action as a result of the extension of the expiration of the Offer.

For more information, contact Barclays Capital Inc., the Dealer-Manager for the Offer, or D.F. King & Co., Inc., the Information Agent for the Offer.

D.F. King & Co., Inc. Barclays 48 Wall Street  22nd Floor 745 Seventh Avenue, 5th Floor New York, New York 10005 New York, New York 10019

Attn: Liability Management Group Banks and Brokers Call: (212) 269-5550

All others call Toll-Free: (877) 283-0316 Banks and Brokers Call: (212) 528-7581 Email: [email protected] All others call Toll-Free: (800) 438-3242

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This announcement is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell securities. The Offer for the outstanding shares of Alere's Preferred Stock described in this news release is being made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase and related materials that Abbott has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") pursuant to a Schedule TO. The Schedule TO, Offer to Purchase, a related letter of transmittal and other Offer documents contain important information that should be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. These materials (and all other documents Abbott has filed with the SEC) will be available at no charge on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare company devoted to improving life through the development of products and technologies that span the breadth of healthcare. With a portfolio of leading, science-based offerings in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic pharmaceuticals, Abbott serves people in more than 150 countries and employs approximately 94,000 people.

Visit Abbott at www.abbott.com and connect with us on Twitter at @AbbottNews.

A Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Some statements in this news release may be forward-looking statements. Abbott cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect Abbott's operations are discussed in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," in Abbott's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016, and are incorporated by reference. Abbott undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law.

SOURCE Abbott

Related Links

http://www.abbott.com


BEIJING, China, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- APG, the largest European pension asset manager and administrator, together with E Fund, the third largest fund manager in China, announced today that it will launch the first concentrated equities strategy that invests in China A-shares and adheres to sustainable & responsible investing frameworks and criteria.

"APG is a firm believer and promoter of responsible investing. We are happy to partner with E Fund to establish this milestone to embrace our role and duty as responsible long term asset manager, for the benefit of our clients. Our RI approach combined with local intelligence will create unique investment opportunities for us in China. We are hoping to set a trend and share our knowledge and experience with other institutional investors," Ronald Wuijster, acting CEO of APG Asset Management, explained.

'We are very delighted to work with APG to bring this world class ESG investment experience to our marketplace. E Fund is already a member of UNPRI and we have been equipping ourselves for ESG investments for quite some time. We are so excited to translate our efforts into a tangible investment strategy, which we are confident to produce positive investment returns, and to expand the positive impacts to a more sustainable community beyond financial performance," stated by Sau Kwan, President of E Fund Management.

About APG

APG administers pensions and manages pension assets of one of every five Dutch families. As of year-end 2016, it invests 443 billion Euros of pension assets as fiduciary/pension manager, which has made the company the largest pension manager in Europe and one of the largest fiduciary managers worldwide. APG operates globally with offices in the Netherlands (Amsterdam and Heerlen) and subsidiaries in Hong Kong and New York, with more than 2,000 highly qualified employees in the pension administration and the asset management environment.

About E Fund

Established on April 17, 2001, E Fund has grown to be a leading asset manager that provides asset management services in China with mutual funds, pension funds and segregated account business. As of June 30, 2017, the company has overseen total AUM over RMB 1.1 trillion, ranking the top 3 fund managers in China. Headquartered in Guangzhou, China, E Fund has offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Nanjing, Chengdu, Dalian and New York.

SOURCE E Fund

Related Links

http://www.efunds.com.cn


BEIJING, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- App Annie, the most trusted mobile app market data and insights company, today announced the launch of comprehensive China Android app usage metrics. Together with the company's existing coverage of China iOS download, revenue and usage metrics, App Annie now provides extensive data visibility into the world's largest mobile app economy.

App Annie's launch of Android insights in China now offers companies an independent, streamlined and magnified view into how to measure success for their app business across all app markets. This had previously posed a challenge for the mobile industry as the market is fragmented into app stores of different sizes and consumer bases  which made access to digestible, unbiased, and reliable data extremely difficult.

These new metrics will help companies truly gauge real mobile app usage behavior in China from real-world users, empowering them to benchmark their success both in China and in international markets. Further, companies may now use these insights to: shape product development strategies based on high-performing apps in China, keep a pulse on the feature sets driving engagement, and benchmark against international peers to better understand their own performance in a global context.

Starting today, the following China Android app usage metrics for more than 5,000 apps are added to the App Annie platform:

Usage Penetration: The percentage of users who used the app during a certain period.

The percentage of users who used the app during a certain period. Active Users: Monthly Active Users (MAU) and Weekly Active Users (WAU) available now. Daily Active Users (DAU) coming soon.

Monthly Active Users (MAU) and Weekly Active Users (WAU) available now. Daily Active Users (DAU) coming soon. Cross-App Usage: A view into which apps are most commonly used together.

A view into which apps are most commonly used together. Sessions and Time: Sessions per user, time per session and time per user.

Sessions per user, time per session and time per user. % Active Days: The average percentage of days in the period the app is used.

The average percentage of days in the period the app is used. Data Usage: MB per user and MB per session.

These new metrics also allow for comprehensive rankings of the most used apps globally. China's leading apps hold a commanding presence in the top rankings: WeChat by Tencent was the 3rd most used app globally by combined MAU on Android phone and iPhone, while an impressive 4 of the top 5 most played games in August came from China.

According to App Annie, Chinese consumers and advertisers spent a grand total of $790 billion via mobile platforms in 2016. App Annie forecasts that by 2021, the number will increase dramatically to $2.59 trillion, especially as mobile commerce continues to thrive. Given the massive install base of Android devices in Chinamore than 6x larger than iOSthis platform is critical to measure and capitalize on when competing in this enormous and innovative market.

"As a globally-focused company, we are very impressed by the impact the Chinese market has had on the mobile space and are devoted to providing the most reliable data into this market for our customers," says Bertrand Schmitt, CEO and Co-founder of App Annie. "China is a key leader in mobile and digital trends, and having independent and trustworthy insights into its mobile consumers is critical for businesses to build successful app strategies  both in China and internationally."

Find more information at https://www.appannie.com/en/tours/market-data-intelligence/.

About App Annie

App Annie delivers the most trusted app market data and insights for your business to succeed in the global app economy. Over 900,000 registered members rely on App Annie to better understand the app market, their businesses and the opportunities around them. The company is headquartered in San Francisco with 450 employees across 15 global offices. App Annie has received $157 million in financing, including from investors such as Sequoia Capital, Institutional Venture Partners, IDG Capital Partners, e.ventures, Greenspring Associates, and Greycroft Partners.

SOURCE App Annie

Related Links

http://www.appannie.com


As part of its agreement with Empire Outlets and the New York Wheel, CitySightseeing New York will promote the new St. George cruise stop in its tourist packages and marketing materials, which are provided at concierge desks in major New York City hotels and at iconic landmarks. The new route will also be advertised on CitySightseeing New York's double-decker tour buses, creating additional waves of interest among the millions of tourists who visit the city each year. The new St. George stop is expected to go into service following Empire Outlets' planned opening next spring.

"It's an incredible opportunity to partner with Empire Outlets connecting Manhattan and Staten Island," says Mark Marmurstein, President and CEO of CitySightseeing New York, "We look forward to bringing both tourists and locals alike who love to shop to this exciting new destination."

"This partnership between CitySightseeing New York and Empire Outlets is a huge win for shoppers, tourists, businesses and the future of Staten Island's revitalized North Shore," said Joseph Ferrara, principal of BFC Partners, the developer of Empire Outlets. "As we get even closer to opening New York City's first and only premium outlet center, the new St. George cruise stop is just another reminder that when visitors come to Empire Outlets, they will go where New York is going."

"We are thrilled to work with CitySightseeing New York to ensure that even more visitors will come to enjoy Staten Island's incredible North Shore and everything it has to offer," said Don Capoccia, principal of BFC Partners, the developer of Empire Outlets. "These kinds of partnerships have long-term positive impacts that will strengthen economic development, job creation and community growth right here on Staten Island."

The new St. George stop will be part of the CitySightseeing New York Hop-on, Hop-off cruise route that currently includes stops at Pier 78 (West 38th Street), the World Financial Center, Pier 11 (Wall Street) and DUMBO, Brooklyn. These Hop-on, Hop-off cruises carry more than 650,000 passengers each year, the vast majority of whom are tourists visiting New York City.

A survey by CitySightseeing New York revealed that more than 80 percent of customers polled would be interested in utilizing a hop-off stop on Staten Island to go shopping and visit destinations like Empire Outlets and the New York Wheel.

Located adjacent to the St. George Ferry Terminal, Empire Outlets will feature over 100 designer outlet retailers, a boutique hotel with a rooftop venue and a 1,250-space parking garage. Major retailers at the center already include H&M, Nordstrom Rack, Banana Republic, Gap Factory and Columbia Sporting Goods. Empire Outlets' 40,000-square-foot food and beverage deck will also offer a diverse array of dining options including Shake Shack, Two Boots Pizza, Mighty Quinn's Barbeque, Wasabi Steak & Sushi, Ghirardelli and MRKTPL, Staten Island's first-ever artisanal food hall.

CitySightseeing New York and Empire Outlets will release more details about the new St. George cruise stop and its arrival/departure schedules in the coming months.

"Enhancing access and connectivity to Staten Island through the new CitySightseeing New York Hop-on, Hop-off Cruise loop will be a tremendous advantage for visitors and New Yorkers heading to the new Empire Outlets, an anchor of Destination St. George," said Fred Dixon, NYC & Company's President and CEO.

"The addition of the Hop-on, Hop-off cruise stop in Staten Island is a great example of the continued growth that the North Shore is experiencing, with convenient connections from Manhattan and Brooklyn making it even easier for tourists and shoppers to visit," said Joel Ward, General Manager of the New York Wheel. "We join our friends in the St. George community in celebrating Staten Island's transformation into the next great tourism destination in New York City."

About Empire Outlets

Empire Outlets, developed by BFC Partners, will be an approximately 340,000 square foot retail complex, comprised of 100 designer outlet retailers and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Plans also include an upscale boutique hotel that will provide extraordinary views of the Manhattan skyline. BFC Partners will also build a 1,250-space structured parking garage below the retail and hotel components to accommodate commuters and tourists alike. Designed by SHoP Architects, Empire Outlets will feature expansive open corridors to the water, contemporary materials reflective of the industrial waterfront, and a sweeping sustainable green roof visible from the harbor. Celebratory vertical circulation elements such as grand staircases, elevators, and streamlined escalators will guide shoppers as they move from the waterfront up to Richmond Terrace, creating a dynamic and easily navigated pedestrian experience. For more information about Empire Outlets New York City, please visit www.empireoutletsnyc.com. Find us on Twitter @EmpireOutlets and on Instagram at @empireoutlets.

About CitySightseeing

CitySightseeing was created in 1999 in Seville, Spain and is now well-known feature in almost 100 locations worldwide which span six of the seven continents. Our bright, cheerful and fun-filled red open top buses are sought after by tourists and visitors to some of the world's top destinations. In addition to operating double-decker busses that carry millions of tourists per year, CitySightseeing New York also City Sightseeing Cruises operates a Hop/on Hop/off sightseeing cruise between their terminal at Pier 78 (W. 38th St.), World Financial Center, Wall St. and DUMBO. City Sightseeing is owned by Twin America, the largest tour company in NYC. For more, please see https://www.citysightseeingnewyork.com/.

SOURCE Empire Outlets

Related Links

http://www.empireoutletsnyc.com


NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Asurion, the global leader in technology solutions services, was honored by global research and advisory firm Frost & Sullivan with the 2017 North American Product Leadership Award for Mobile Protection Services. The award recognizes Asurion for its Soluto expert tech help service, a data-driven engagement platform that solves any tech issue for any mobile device or platform; and for its innovative suite of smart device protection products including multi-user and multi-device protection, and same day device repair or next day replacement.

The award is based upon Frost & Sullivan's recent 360-degree evaluation of the North American mobile protection and support market, which found that Asurion's innovative suite of customer-first technology protection and support solutions is best in class. This is the fifth leadership award that Asurion has received from Frost & Sullivan in the past five years, solidifying Asurion's top market position. These awards recognize Asurion's ability to deliver superior end-to-end customer experiences that drive customer loyalty back to the company's partner carrier brands.

"Asurion delivers best-in-class mobile protection as well as a comprehensive, Big Data-informed approach to managing engagement over the entirety of the customer lifecycle," said Brent Iadarola, Frost & Sullivan Vice President, Mobile & Wireless Communications. "With its industry-leading repair and replacement services and innovative, white-label Soluto expert tech help that creates positive customer interactions, Asurion goes beyond simply minimizing a carrier's pain-points. It turns engagement into a strength for driving up customer satisfaction and retention rates."

Asurion continues to invest in its highly trained Soluto tech experts, best-in-class technology and a more personalized support experience driven by billions of customer data points.

"Smart devices have become increasingly complex. We've created our protection and support plans to help mobile customers when they need it most  whether it's loss, damage or theft, or how to get the most of their device on a day-to-day basis. This customer-first focus helps our partners drive retention and loyalty to their brands while keeping their customers connected," said Ken Wirth, Asurion senior vice president of Americas Mobility. "We're proud to receive this award for market-leading mobile protection products and support services."

Continuous Innovation

Asurion is committed to developing innovative solutions that engender client loyalty by making it easier and more convenient for client customers to keep their technology up and running smoothly. The Company's award-winning Soluto tech help service has revolutionized traditional tech support for more than 42 million people, providing personalized expert assistance and proactive advice to help people learn, grow and do more with their connected technology.

Asurion's comprehensive suite of protection services are supported by robust omni-channel marketing and branding support  including in-store point-of-sale, store associate training, multi-channel marketing solutions and analytics  to help wireless carriers ensure success of their product protection programs.

Visit https://www.asurion.com/frostandsullivanmobileproductaward/ to download the Frost & Sullivan best practices research regarding the 2017 North American mobile protection services market, or for more information about Asurion and its tailored tech solutions.

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. Contact us: Start the discussion.

About Asurion

Asurion helps more than 300 million people around the world unlock their technology's untapped potential. We create innovative technology solutions that help keep consumers connected, from comprehensive protection to smart tech help that redefines expertise. Partnering with leading wireless carriers, retailers and pay-tv providers, Asurion's 16,000 employees deliver a seamless, award-winning customer experience, anticipating their needs and providing tailored services reachable within one touch.

SOURCE Asurion

Related Links

http://www.asurion.com


ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the American Trucking Associations is pleased to announce the hiring of Ed Gilroy as the federation's new senior vice president of legislative affairs and Jay Lim as vice president of legislative affairs.

"ATA is recognized in Washington as the most authoritative voice advocating for a pro-safety, pro-efficiency, pro-trucking agenda in Washington," said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. "By adding Ed and Jay to our legislative affairs staff, we are putting ATA in an even stronger position to address the changing needs of our association and our industry. I'm delighted to have them on board."

After more than 15 years as director of workforce policy for the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Gilroy returns to ATA where he served in a number of legislative affairs roles including as vice president.

"My time on the Hill and at ATA has given me a deep appreciation for the work the trucking industry does and the challenges it faces, and I'm happy to be back to help move their agenda forward," Gilroy said.

Lim comes to ATA after several years working for Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and for the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"In my time in the Senate, I've had the opportunity to work on several trucking-related issues. I'm pleased to be joining the ATA team to continue working on those issues and serving this tremendous industry," said Lim.

"Over the past year, we have worked to reshape our legislative affairs team while still delivering the advocacy wins our members deserve," said ATA Executive Vice President of Advocacy Bill Sullivan. "I am pleased that Jay and Ed will be joining our team and look forward to celebrating many more victories with them in the months and years to come."

Gilroy, an Alexandria, Virginia resident, holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs from the University of Southern California. Lim has an undergraduate and law degree from Georgetown University and a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government and resides in Vienna, Virginia.

American Trucking Associations is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation's freight. Follow ATA on Twitter or on Facebook. Trucking Moves America Forward

SOURCE American Trucking Associations

Related Links

http://www.trucking.org


SAN DIEGO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashford University announced that the keynote address at its fall commencement ceremony will be delivered by author Dr. Donna Beegle. Ashford's commencement ceremony is set for 10 a.m. on Sunday, October 8, at the Viejas Arena, 5500 Canyon Crest Dr. in San Diego, Calif.

Dr. Beegle is the author of "See Poverty, Be the Difference," and "An Action Approach to Educating Students in Poverty." She brings unique insights from having grown up in the deepest poverty in America and studying and speaking on poverty for over 26 years.

Dr. Beegle's story and work have been featured in newspapers around the nation, on local TV, and on national networks such as PBS. Dr. Beegle had to overcome enormous hardships. After growing up in generational migrant labor poverty and leaving school for marriage at 15, she found herself, at 25, with no husband, two children, little education, and no job skills. Despite these challenges, she went on to earn a G.E.D., an associate's in journalism, a bachelor's (with honors) in communications, a master's in communication with a minor in gender studies (with honors), and a doctorate in education.

Dr. Beegle was selected as the 2008 National Speaker of the Year by the New Mexico State Bar Foundation. In 2010, Portland State University's School of Social Work dedicated the Donna M. Beegle Community Classrooms in her honor. In 2011, she received the 2011 Oregon award for excellence in ethical business practice, and in 2015 she was a named a Woodrow Wilson Fellow at Princeton University.

More than 1,290 students are expected to travel to San Diego to receive their diplomas during Ashford's commencement weekend. During the weekend, graduates will have an opportunity to take tours of Ashford's San Diego headquarters and to meet other students and professors at various "Meet & Greet" events.

For more information on Ashford's fall 2017 commencement, visit https://www.ashford.edu/online-learning-experience/graduation.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation  that's Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor's, and master's degree programs online, allowing students to balance life by providing the flexibility to do school work anywhere, anytime. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Lauren Coartney at 858.513.9240 x11636, or email [email protected].

SOURCE Ashford University

Related Links

http://www.ashford.edu


SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Americans love coffee and coffee breaks. But they often drink their coffee on the run, absentmindedly and solo while doing something else. Instead, they could be savoring their brew and taking time to get to know their coworkers, family members and fellow coffee shop habituates the way the Swedish do.

Fika Fix: How a New Take on the Coffee Break Can Cure the Loneliness Epidemic Emile Odback

In time for International Coffee Day, Sept. 30, Emile Odback, a Swede living in Santa Barbara, hopes to introduce Americans to the Swedish concept of Fika (pronounced fee-kah). He sees it as a means to make Americans as happy as the Swedes, who are among the happiest people on earth. In Sweden, daily multiple 15-minute Fika breaks are a given and during that time no work is discussed, no one checks their cellphones and everyone talks to each other as friends doall while enjoying coffee and delicious baked goods. Compare that to the U.S. where in one survey, 80 million Americans admitted that they didn't have a single friend and loneliness is considered just as bad for health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Emile says, "We want to make International Coffee Day a day that celebrates coffee and connection. On this coffee day, as we celebrate something so universally loved, what better way is there to show your enthusiasm than by buying somebody else a cup of coffee, or inviting somebody to share a Fika and a nice chat?"

The 22-year-old is the author of the just-released book Fika Fix: How a New Take on the Coffee Break Can Cure the Loneliness Epidemic. The lighthearted book includes fun conversation starters and A to Z facts about coffee and was produced in association with his mother, Asa, a former lawyer and university professor.

About the author

Emile Odback is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of California Santa Barbara where he was one of the commencement speakers and was editor-in-chief of the university newspaper. Emile and his mother Asa founded a company together with the goal of inspiring people to connect and feel good. Their new book Fika Fix: How a New Take on the Coffee Break Can Cure the Loneliness Epidemic is an important part of that effort.

Availability: Santa Barbara, Calif., nationwide by arrangement and via telephone

Contact: Emile Odback, (805) 551-4455; [email protected]

SOURCE Emile Odback
KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Bayat Foundation (www.bayatfoundation.org), Afghanistan's largest, private, non-profit Health, Education and Social Development Organization, has once again demonstrated its unshakeable commitment to improving the lives and health of Afghans, by announcing the successful conclusion of the Foundation's first-ever "Afghans In Sight" program, which distributed eyeglasses and provided vision care services to Afghans affected by challenges to their eyesight.

Launching the Afghans In Sight program highlights the first phase of the Bayat Foundation's efforts to expand the Foundation's vision health and eyeglasses distribution initiative throughout Afghanistan. The long-term objective of the Bayat Foundation's Afghans In Sight Program is to distribute at least 5,000 pairs of eyeglasses and provide basic vision care to Afghans who are affected by compromised eyesight.

Held on August 29, 2017, at the Bayat Humanitarian Care Center in Kabul, teams of medical personnel and rigorously trained volunteers transformed the Humanitarian Care Center into a one-day vision care clinic. There, the compliment of medical personnel and specialized volunteers representing The Bayat Foundation and The Bayat Group of Companies, provided each patient with a full range of vision care services, including the following procedures:

Eye Examinations: (Refraction, Otto Refractometer (OT), IOP (Intra Ocular Pressure)

Syringing

Medication

Eyeglasses Fittings

Eyeglass Pulsing

Ophthalmoscopy and Retinoscopy

Each patient who received a pair of glasses was also provided with a protective case for their glasses, as well as a supply of cleaning solution and a customized cleaning cloth. Patients will also be given a full range of essential after-care health services including referrals for additional medical treatment.

"Thousands of Afghans are affected by challenges to their eyesightchallenges that can be removed through the simple, but life changing gift of a pair of eyeglasses," said Dr. Ehsanollah Bayat, the Co-Founder of The Bayat Foundation.

"Since 2014, The Bayat Foundation, working with The Starkey Hearing Foundation, has restored the hearing of over 3,000 Afghansand now, we're grateful to start the first phase of our efforts which will give the gift of vision to almost 5,000 of our fellow Afghans as well," said Mrs. Fatema Bayat, the President of The Bayat Foundation.

About the Bayat Foundation:

Since 2005, the US-based Bayat Foundation, a 501 c (3) charitable organization, has promoted the well-being of the Afghan people. Founded and directed by Ehsanollah Bayat and Fatema Bayat, the Foundation has contributed to more than 300 projects dedicated to improving the quality of life for the youth, women, poor, and elderly of Afghanistan; including construction of 13 maternity hospitals that have now treated over 2,000,000 mothers and babies.

Projects have included the construction of new facilities and sustainable infrastructure in needy regions, and the promotion of health, education, economic, and cultural programs. In addition to his charitable initiatives, Ehsanollah Bayat founded Afghan Wireless (AWCC) in 2002, which was the first GSM wireless and Internet Service Provider in Afghanistan, and later established Ariana Radio and Television Network (ATN), which includes Ariana Radio (FM 93.5). For more information, please email [email protected].

PLEASE CONTACT:

For Bayat Foundation:

Alberto Lopez

+1.917.330.4510

[email protected]

SOURCE Bayat Foundation

Related Links

http://www.bayatfoundation.org


GREENWICH, Conn., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Black Diamond Capital Management, L.L.C. ("Black Diamond"), a leading alternative asset management firm with over $6.5 billion in assets under management, today announced the appointment of Andy Phelps as a Senior Managing Director and Head of Structured Products Business Development. Mr. Phelps will join Black Diamond from Natixis where he served as Global Head of Structured Credit Syndication. Mr. Phelps will be based in Black Diamond's Greenwich, Connecticut office.

Commenting on the appointment, Stephen H. Deckoff, Black Diamond's Managing Principal, said, "We are excited to have Andy join the Black Diamond team as part of our ongoing commitment to our structured products business. Andy has been a key partner on a number of prior Black Diamond CLOs and will strengthen relationships with our global investors in his new role with the firm."

"I am looking forward to joining Black Diamond," stated Mr. Phelps. "With 20 years of successful involvement in managing structured products, Black Diamond continues to seek out superior performance and its disciplined approach to investing is a great foundation from which to build. I look forward to working with the team to help achieve the firm's long-term goals."

Mr. Phelps has over 16 years of CLO and structured product experience. Most recently, he worked at Natixis, where he served as Global Head of Structured Credit Syndication. Prior to Natixis, Mr. Phelps held senior roles in structured products at Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs. Mr. Phelps received a Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Engineering from M.I.T.

About Black Diamond Capital Management

Black Diamond is a leading alternative asset management firm with over $7 billion in assets under management across three complementary investment platforms: Control Distressed/Private Equity Funds, a Hedge Fund and CLOs and other structured vehicles. Black Diamond has launched 11 Black Diamond CLOs in both the U.S. and Europe since 1998, with aggregate fund size in excess of $6.5 billion. In addition, Black Diamond has managed 12 GSC CLOs following the acquisition of the asset management business of GSC Group in 2011.

SOURCE Black Diamond Capital Management
"Kurt's leadership has been instrumental in growing our commercial tire and service business, and he has positioned the team for continued success after his retirement," said Gordon Knapp, CEO and president, Bridgestone Americas. "Scott started his Bridgestone career in the Commercial organizations, and has since gained diversified leadership experience across the Bridgestone portfolio. We are eager to bring his talents to such a pivotal role within the company."

As president, Damon will be responsible for leading the company's commercial tire sales and service operations in North America, which includes truck and bus radial (TBR) tires, off-the-road (OTR) tires, Firestone agricultural tires, the company's Bandag retread business, as well as commercial retail operations. Damon will guide efforts to grow market share, identify and bring new products, services and technology solutions to market, streamline business efficiencies and develop talent.

Damon joined Bridgestone in 1996 as Development Engineer for Bandag , which was acquired by Bridgestone Americas in 2007. During his career with Bridgestone, Damon has served in various roles of increasing responsibility, including executive director of strategic planning for the Bridgestone Americas Technical Center and, most recently, president of Firestone Industrial Products (FSIP). Damon graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, earned an MBA from Frostburg State University and completed certificate studies in executive leadership and management at the University of Notre Dame.

Danielson is retiring after an extensive career with Bridgestone, including his current role as president of U.S. and Canada commercial tire sales, which he has held since May 2014. He joined Bridgestone in 1994 as a territory manager in Cincinnati, Ohio, and throughout his tenure progressed through numerous leadership positions within the company.

For more company news, visit BridgestoneAmericas.com.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Nashville, Tenn.-based Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM) is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world's largest tire and rubber company. BSAM and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires to address the needs of a broad range of customers, including consumers, automotive and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers, and those in the agricultural, forestry and mining industries. The companies are engaged in retreading operations throughout the Western Hemisphere and produce air springs, roofing materials, and industrial fibers and textiles. The BSAM family of companies also operates the world's largest chain of automotive tire and service centers. Guided by its One Team, One Planet message, the company is dedicated to achieving a positive environmental impact in all of the communities it calls home.

SOURCE Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.bridgestoneamericas.com


DAYTON and CINCINNATI, Ohio, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Brixey & Meyer Capital (collectively with its affiliated entities, "BMC") announced today it has acquired 3 Sigma (or the "Company"). Since 1980, 3 Sigma has been a specialty provider of adhesive coated materials to converters and manufacturers around the world. 3 Sigma utilizes its deep application experience and expertise in the chemistry of adhesive technology to serve the automotive, food, consumer products, medical and marketing industries. 3 Sigma's technologies can be found in coated materials used in applications such as press and seal consumer packaging, security labels, construction tapes, brake pads and many other highly engineered applications.

"3 Sigma has built a strong reputation to serve customers large and small in some of the most complex adhesive applications," said David Brixey, Managing Director of Brixey & Meyer Capital, "the capabilities the Company has developed is a true testament to 3 Sigma's leadership, workforce and their collective passion for the business to grow and succeed."

Founded in 1980, 3 Sigma is based in Troy, Ohio and currently has approximately 80 full time employees. Tony Rowley will remain as President of the Company.

"When evaluating a buyer and future partner for the Company, we searched for a group that was more than just a financial partner," said Tony Rowley, President & co-owner of 3 Sigma, "we felt like we achieved just that by partnering with Brixey & Meyer Capital. What set them apart was their focus on people, their investment philosophy, and the resources they are able to bring to bear to achieve our aggressive growth goals."

3 Sigma was acquired from the Judith Beck family. Brady Ware Capital acted as the exclusive financial advisor to the Beck family in connection with the sale of the Company.

3 Sigma is the third acquisition of BMC's first fund, the BMC Growth Fund, LLC. The BMC Growth Fund, LLC is an $18.0 million fund launched in November 2015 which invests in lower middle market companies generating $1.0 to $4.0 million of cash flow. Brixey & Meyer Capital is planning the launch of their second fund, the BMC Growth Fund II in late 2017.

About Brixey & Meyer Capital:

Brixey & Meyer Capital is a lower middle market private equity investment firm with offices in Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio. The core team of David Brixey and Patrick Odell have deep backgrounds in operations, financial management and transactions in organizations large and small. This experience is brought to bear with each of the portfolio companies.

For more information about Brixey & Meyer Capital, please visit: www.brixeyandmeyercapital.com

CONTACT:

David S. Brixey Patrick M. Odell Brixey & Meyer Capital Brixey & Meyer Capital 937-291-4110 513-507-9826 E-Mail E-Mail [email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE Brixey & Meyer Capital

Related Links

http://brixeyandmeyercapital.com


WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Sep. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bunge Limited (NYSE: BG) today announced that Bunge Limited Finance Corp., its wholly owned finance subsidiary, has priced a public offering of $400 million aggregate principal amount of 3.00% senior notes due 2022 and $600 million aggregate principal amount of 3.75% senior notes due 2027. The senior notes will be guaranteed by Bunge Limited. The offering was made pursuant to a registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The transaction is expected to close on September 25, 2017.

Bunge Limited intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to finance its previously announced acquisition of a 70% ownership interest in IOI Loders Croklaan. Pending the closing of the acquisition, Bunge intends to use the proceeds to repay outstanding indebtedness.

Citigroup Global Markets Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Mizuho Securities USA LLC, SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. and Natixis Securities Americas LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering of the 3.00% senior notes due 2022 and Citigroup Global Markets Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Mizuho Securities USA LLC, SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering of the 3.75% senior notes due 2027. ABN AMRO Securities (USA) LLC, BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Credit Agricole Securities (USA) Inc., Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Rabo Securities USA, Inc., SG Americas Securities, LLC and UniCredit Capital Markets LLC are acting as senior co-managers for the offering of both tranches of senior notes. ANZ Securities Inc., Barclays Capital Inc., BB Securities Limited, BBVA Securities Inc., BMO Capital Markets Corp., Commerz Markets LLC, ICBC Standard Bank Plc, ING Financial Markets LLC, Loop Capital Markets LLC, nabSecurities, LLC, PNC Capital Markets LLC, RBS Securities Inc., Santander Investment Securities Inc., Scotia Capital (USA) Inc., Standard Chartered Bank and SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. are acting as co-managers for the offering of both tranches of senior notes.

This offering of senior notes may be made only by means of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus related to the offering. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the offering can be obtained by calling Citigroup Global Markets Inc. toll-free at 1-800-831-9146, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC collect at 1-212-834-4533, Mizuho Securities USA LLC toll-free at 1-866-271-7403 or SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. toll-free at 1-888-868-6856.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, these senior notes in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Website Information

We routinely post important information for investors on our website, www.bunge.com, in the "Investors" section. We may use this website as a means of disclosing material, non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor the Investors section of our website, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this document.

About Bunge Limited

Bunge Limited (www.bunge.com, NYSE: BG) is a leading global agribusiness and food company operating in over 40 countries with approximately 32,000 employees. Bunge buys, sells, stores and transports oilseeds and grains to serve customers worldwide; processes oilseeds to make protein meal for animal feed and edible oil products for commercial customers and consumers; produces sugar and ethanol from sugarcane; mills wheat, corn and rice to make ingredients used by food companies; and sells fertilizer in South America. Founded in 1818, the company is headquartered in White Plains, New York.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains both historical and forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather reflect our current expectations and projections about our future results, performance, prospects and opportunities, including statements with respect to the completion, timing and anticipated use of proceeds of the offering, as well as the completion and timing of the Loders acquisition. We have tried to identify these forward looking statements by using words including "may," "will," "should," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "intend," "estimate," "continue" and similar expressions. These forward looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results, performance, prospects or opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward looking statements, including those risk factors described in or incorporated by reference in the prospectus supplement for the offering. The following important factors, among others, could affect our business and financial performance: industry conditions, including fluctuations in supply, demand and prices for agricultural commodities and other raw materials and products used in our business; fluctuations in energy and freight costs and competitive developments in our industries; the effects of weather conditions and the outbreak of crop and animal disease on our business; global and regional agricultural, economic, financial and commodities market, political, social and health conditions; the outcome of pending regulatory and legal proceedings; our ability to complete, integrate and benefit from acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures and strategic alliances; our ability to achieve the efficiencies, savings and other benefits anticipated from our cost reduction, margin improvement and other business optimization initiatives; changes in government policies, laws and regulations affecting our business, including agricultural and trade policies, tax regulations and biofuels legislation; and other factors affecting our business generally. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date of this release, and except as otherwise required by federal securities law, we do not have any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

SOURCE Bunge Limited

Related Links

http://www.bunge.com


WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today decried Rep. Scott Perry's (R-Penn.) smear targeting American Muslim peace builder Manal Omar.

Perry, who has praised white supremacist-linked, anti-Islam activist Brigitte Gabriel, used an early September budget hearing to attack Omar for saying she believed then-candidate Trump was "inciting violence" and that he "has blood on his hands." Perry used Omar's one-time remark from 2016 to call for an end to all funding to the government-backed U.S. Institute for Peace (USIP), which was then Omar's employer. Omar exited USIP two days after Perry's attack.

SEE: A Foreign Policy Expert Says Calling Out Trump's "Hate Speech" Hurt Her Career In Washington

https://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahallam/a-foreign-policy-expert-says-calling-out-trumps-hate-speech

"Then-candidate Trump was inciting violence on the campaign trail. He was expressing anti-Islam animus. Omar's one-time expression of concern about Trump's hate rhetoric is exactly what any peace builder should say," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad. "Perry's ties to the U.S. Islamophobia network indicate that his attack may have had more to do with targeting a visible American Muslim than any concern about Omar's valid statement."

In December 2016, Rep. Perry posted a photograph of himself to his Facebook page with the head of the white supremacist-linked anti-Islam hate group ACT for America. In his Facebook post, Perry said that he had a "terrific" discussion with Gabriel and she "deserves" to be heard.

ACT for America leader Brigitte Gabriel says "every practicing Muslim is a radical Muslim," and that, "America is at stage two Islamic Cancer." At a nationwide series of rallies in June, ACT hosted white supremacist groups like Vangaurd America and Identity Evropa.

SEE: Perry Facebook post of photo with Act for America's Brigitte Gabriel

https://www.facebook.com/repscottperry/photos/a.379514205478207.86070.376801102416184/1192789827483970/

The Hate that ACT for America Wrought

http://www.islamophobia.org/158-key-issues-in-islamophobia/207-the-hate-that-act-for-america-wrought.html

In July, Perry was a featured guest on the radio program of Frank Gaffney, whose Center for Security Policy is an icon of anti-Islam hate.

SEE: Islamophobe Profile of Center for Security Policy

http://www.islamophobia.org/islamophobic-orgs/57-center-for-security-policy-csp.html

In its civil rights report documenting a 44 percent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes in 2016 over 2015, CAIR documented then-candidate Trump's anti-Islam animus.

CAIR also noted: "A publication produced by a United States Holocaust Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide Fellow notes that dangerous speech includes, 'both speech that qualifies as incitement and speech that makes incitement possible by conditioning its audience to accept, condone, and commit violence against people who belong to a targeted group.'"

SEE: CAIR 2014-2016 Civil Rights Report

http://islamophobia.org/15-reports/188-the-empowerment-of-hate.html

Trump's History of Encouraging Violence

https://www.nytimes.com/video/us/100000004269364/trump-and-violence.html

When White House spokeswoman Sara Huckabee Sanders asserted that President Trump has never encouraged violence, Politifact rated the assertion as "false."

SEE: Has Donald Trump Never 'Promoted or Encouraged Violence,' as Sarah Huckabee Sanders Said?

http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2017/jul/05/sarah-huckabee-sanders/has-donald-trump-never-promoted-or-encouraged-viol/

The Washington-based civil rights organization said it has witnessed an unprecedented increase in hate incidents targeting American Muslims and members of other minority groups since the election of Donald Trump.

Exclusive: New Report Offers Proof of US Hate Crime Rise in the Trump Era

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/hate-crime-rise-2016-united-states-trump_us_59becac8e4b086432b07fed8

CAIR asks community members to report any bias incidents to police and to CAIR's Civil Rights Department at 202-742-6420 or by filing a report at: http://www.cair.com/report

Because of the rise in hate incidents, CAIR recently launched an app to share critical "know your rights" information and to simplify the process to report hate crimes and bias incidents.

For a quick download of CAIR's civil rights app, click here: http://www.cair.com/app

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

La mision de CAIR es mejorar la comprension del Islam, fomentar el dialogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la comprension mutua.

CONTACT: CAIR National Department to Monitor and Combat Islamophobia Director Corey Saylor, [email protected], 202-384-8857; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, [email protected]

SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)

Related Links

http://www.cair.com


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- California Credit Union is inviting all Los Angeles area teachers who have a great class project idea to apply for a credit union grant through its bi-annual Teacher Grant Program.

The program is open to any full-time classroom teacher in Los Angeles County who is looking to fund an innovative classroom learning opportunity. The project should have clearly defined learning objectives tied to students' academic needs, display creativity, and benefit a significant number of students. Ten grants of $500 each will be awarded to Los Angeles area teachers in November in the fall program.

"We were founded to serve the education community, and we can't think of a better way to continue that commitment than helping teachers provide an exciting learning opportunity for their students," said California Credit Union President/CEO Steve O'Connell. "We hope this program will make it a little easier for educators to make a difference in the lives of our students, and encourage any teacher who has an innovative project idea to apply for one of our grants."

Interested teachers can find more information and apply online at ccu.com/teachergrant or visit a California Credit Union branch for an application. The application deadline is October 20, 2017.

Since the creation of the program in 2012, California Credit Union has awarded $55,000 in teacher grants to benefit students from 110 schools throughout Los Angeles County. Schools benefiting from last year's program used the funds toward initiatives such as special education, business concepts, solar energy, water conservation and literacy. The bi-annual program offers up to 20 grants in the spring and fall to teachers across Los Angeles County. This year, the program has also been expanded to offer a grant program to teachers in San Diego County as well.

About California Credit Union

California Credit Union is a federally insured, state chartered credit union founded in 1933 that serves public or private school employees, community members and businesses across California. With more than 165,000 members and assets of $3 billion, California Credit Union has 24 branches throughout Los Angeles and San Diego counties. The credit union operates in San Diego County as North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union. California Credit Union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking. Please visit ccu.com for more information.

SOURCE California Credit Union

Related Links

http://www.ccu.com


RESTON, Va., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CALNET announced today that it has been awarded the Army Training Information Architecture (ATIA) Analysis, Customer Implementation, Functional Reviews & Tier 2 Support contract by the U.S. Army to provide services at Ft Eustis, VA.

CALNET will provide functional requirements analysis, design specification artifacts, application design reviews and validation of acceptance criteria, user assistance, user training as required, and Tier 2 help desk support for ATIA systems and services. This support will include development and maintenance of architectural documentation consistent with the Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DODAF); applications design and functional review documentation; information assurance documentation; and functional help desk support.

"CALNET is honored to be selected as the government's trusted partner for this important DOD mission and serving our armed forces. This award validates the long-term commitment CALNET has made to support the DOD and intelligence community," said Kaleem Shah, CALNET's President and CEO.

About CALNET Inc.

Since 1989, CALNET has helped Federal, State and Commercial organizations to remain agile by obtaining explicit business results through the rapid application and delivery of Advanced Information Technology solutions. Additionally CALNET provides Intelligence Analysis and Language solutions to the U.S Armed Forces and the Intelligence Community globally. CALNET's success as a company depends solely upon providing our clients with the people and solutions they need in a timely and cost effective manner. Our value proposition is based on the talent and experience that CALNET, and our partners, bring forward to every engagement. Our company slogan: "Partnership for Success" signifies our commitment to win customers one project at a time. An Inc. 500 winner in 2006, 2007 and 2008, CALNET has offices in Reston, Virginia and San Diego, California.

SOURCE CALNET Inc.

Related Links

http://calnet.com


ALPHARETTA, Ga., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Craig Ganssle, founder and CEO of CAMP3 (formerly Basecamp Networks), an innovative technology company specializing in wireless network ecosystems and cloud-based applications, has been accepted into the Forbes Technology Council, an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives.

Ganssle joins other Forbes Technology Council members, who are hand-selected, to become part of a curated network of successful peers and get access to a variety of exclusive benefits and resources, including the opportunity to submit thought leadership articles and short tips on industry-related topics for publishing on Forbes.com.

Forbes Councils combines an innovative, high-touch approach to community management perfected by the team behind Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) with the extensive resources and global reach of Forbes. As a result, Forbes Council members get access to the people, benefits, and expertise they need to grow their businesses  and a dedicated member concierge who acts as an extension of their own team, providing personalized one-on-one support.

"Technology is truly revolutionizing the world. In my more 20+ years working in the field, I have seen how it can save lives, build countries, run companies and most recently disrupt entire industries," shares Ganssle. "I'm excited for this opportunity with the Forbes Technology Council to leverage my expertise to provide business leaders with the resources and insight they need to make informed decisions relating to wireless networks and solutions as well as further the dialogue on the future of artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning."

Scott Gerber, founder of Forbes Councils, says, "We are honored to welcome Craig into the community. Our mission with Forbes Councils is to curate successful professionals from every industry, creating a vetted, social capital-driven network that helps every member make an even greater impact on the business world."

About CAMP3

CAMP3 (formerly Basecamp Networks) is sought after for its ability to deliver rigorous and secure wireless ecosystems that are enhancing today's overextended WiFi experience in large-scale live, work and play environments. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, its emerging innovative business unit develops industry-specific cloud solutions that leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning in one dynamic solution, sold either as industry exclusivity or enterprise licensing. For more information, visit www.camp3.io.

About Forbes Councils

Forbes partnered with the founders of Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) to launch Forbes Councils, invitation-only communities for world-class business professionals in a variety of industries. Members, who are hand-selected by each Council's community team, receive personalized introductions to each other based on their specific needs and gain access to a wide range of business benefits and services, including best-in-class concierge teams, personalized connections, peer-to-peer learning, a business services marketplace, and the opportunity to share thought leadership content on Forbes.com. For more information about Forbes TechnologyCouncil, visit https://forbestechcouncil.com. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit forbescouncils.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Colleen Murphy

Trevelino/Keller

404.214.0722 Ext.109

[email protected]

SOURCE CAMP3

Related Links

http://www.camp3.io


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Captis Intelligence, formerly Qface Systems, a leading provider of I-4 crime solutions (Intelligence, Information, Investigation, Identification) has announced the appointment of David Leppan to Board Member and Chairman of their Board of Advisors.

Captis Intelligence

Leppan, founder of World-Check (now part of Thomson Reuters) and co-founder of WealthX, is a pioneer and recognized expert in KYC (Know Your Customer), Due Diligence, and Risk Mitigation data services to the public and private sector. Leppan's experience within the financial banking industry and regulatory /enforcement agencies will be instrumental in developing Captis' growth in the financial sector. "The financial market's requirements in security measures, KYC, and identification progress at a rapid pace," said Leppan. "Captis's product offering and leading market position exceed today's requirements and anticipate tomorrow's requests," added Leppan.

Leppan's investment will accelerate Captis's next phase of continued innovation and expand its reach globally throughout several strategic vertical markets, most notably the financial institution vertical where Leppan's World-Check solution became a standard. With a focus on advanced facial recognition with corresponding database, the Captis Financial solution will deliver a next-generation system expanding on Leppan's initial KYC vision. "David is a globally recognized expert and visionary with an impressive track record in the financial sector," said Charles Archer, former Assistant Director of the FBI and Chairman of the Captis Law Enforcement Council. "David's involvement reaffirms Captis's commitment in partnering with global experts to drive progression and expansion."

About Captis Intelligence

Captis Intelligence's I-4 platform (Intelligence, Information, Investigation, Identification) provides an advanced cloud-based system for public and private sector applications. Captis unifies situational awareness, geographic crime intelligence, social media investigation, facial recognition, criminal databases, access to solveacrime.com, and secured information exchange portals for neighboring businesses and law enforcement. A global innovator, Captis is headquartered in Los Angeles and has offices in London and Singapore. Captis was founded on the principle of innovation and remains at the forefront of pioneering I-4 crime prevention/suspect identification technologies.

Media: [email protected]

SOURCE Captis Intelligence
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera Financial Group ("Cetera")*, a leading network of independent firms empowering the delivery of professional financial advice to individuals, families and company retirement plans, today announced the appointment of Michael Zuna as the company's Chief Marketing Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Zuna, who is based in San Diego, will report directly to Adam Antoniades, President of Cetera.

As Chief Marketing Officer of Cetera, Mr. Zuna's responsibilities will include development and implementation of marketing strategy, brand development and digital and social media marketing. He will also oversee other key communications initiatives geared at driving brand leadership for Cetera that directly support the company's broader vision of an advice-centric experience model for the industry's future. Additionally, Mr. Zuna will partner closely with the entire Cetera leadership team to help revolutionize the company's business development function, by spearheading a closer integration of marketing, digital lead generation and advisor recruiting efforts.

Prior to joining Cetera, Mr. Zuna served as Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer of Petco Animal Supplies, where he had oversight of all marketing, e-commerce and brand-building activities for the company. Before joining Petco, Mr. Zuna served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of AFLAC, Inc., where he was responsible for brand-building activities across a comprehensive spectrum of marketing and advertising channels, including all marketing of the 'AFLAC Duck.' Mr. Zuna also was responsible for the creation of AFLAC's trailblazing One Day Paysm initiative, while taking a leading role with sales enablement, agent recruiting and product development. He also has extensive financial services, investment, insurance and banking experience with leading companies such as Ameriprise Financial, USAA and others.

Adam Antoniades, President of Cetera Financial Group, said, "Hiring Michael Zuna as Cetera's new Chief Marketing Officer is the next logical step in our long-term strategy, which builds on the significant success we've achieved in creating an advice-centric experience standard for our industry. Our vision of an advice-centric experience model places financial advice as the cornerstone of each client relationship, and supplants the product and sales-based approaches of the past. We interviewed a number of highly qualified candidates with this strategy in mind, and were immediately impressed by how instinctively Michael grasped our vision, together with his insights on how to leverage both digital and traditional marketing strategies to connect on a deeper level than ever before possible with business and consumer audiences. Moreover, Michael's expertise with marketing-driven support of AFLAC's 70,000+ independent insurance agents and brokers make him well-suited to spearhead our plans to more seamlessly integrate marketing, digital lead generation and advisor recruiting. We see this as an intersection of capabilities where there is considerable potential for future growth opportunities for our firm, our advisors and the broader industry."

Michael Zuna said, "I've always been inspired by companies committed to completely re-imagining how their industry can optimize the solutions they provide. From the start of our discussions, I was excited about the passion that Cetera's leadership team has for completely re-defining the delivery of retail financial advice in close collaboration with its advisors and institutions. I'm looking forward to building and implementing brand strategies that help foster more meaningful connections among firms, advisors and clients, while building even greater awareness and enthusiasm for the advice-centric experience model as the standard by which all retail financial advice businesses should be measured."

About Cetera Financial Group

Cetera Financial Group ("Cetera") is a leading network of independent firms empowering the delivery of professional financial advice to individuals, families and company retirement plans across the country through trusted financial advisors and financial institutions. Cetera is the second-largest independent financial advisor network in the nation by number of advisors, as well as a leading provider of retail services to the investment programs of banks and credit unions.

Through its multiple distinct firms, Cetera offers independent and institutions-based advisors the benefits of a large, established broker-dealer and registered investment adviser, while serving advisors and institutions in a way that is customized to their needs and aspirations. Advisor support resources offered through Cetera include award-winning wealth management and advisory platforms, comprehensive broker-dealer and registered investment adviser services, practice management support and innovative technology. For more information, visit cetera.com.

* "Cetera Financial Group" refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors, Cetera Advisor Networks, Cetera Investment Services (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions), Cetera Financial Specialists, First Allied Securities, Girard Securities, and Summit Brokerage Services. All firms are members FINRA/SIPC.

Media Contacts:

Matthew Griffes

Haven Tower Group

424.652.6520 ext 103

[email protected]

Joseph Kuo

Haven Tower Group

424.652.6520 ext 101

[email protected]

SOURCE Cetera Financial Group

Related Links

http://www.cetera.com


Studies indicate the cost per sale for dealers, owning an average of 6 rooftops, varies between $306 - $507 for each new vehicle sold; recent innovations, such as ride sharing and automatous vehicles, add to the complexities of the modern auto industry. Little wonder then that, now more than ever, dealers strive to take control of their brand and customer relationships.

For over 32 years, ChannelNet--the inventor of OneClick Loyaltyhas remained at the forefront of assisting the auto industry with state-of-the-art digital technologies. The company's list of innovative, successful digital products include the world's first digital marketing campaigns, dealer website program, as well as other unique customer retention programs.

Based on industry-leading customer experience algorithms, OneClick Loyalty is designed to communicate to customers with relevant content, tools and information at just the right frequency required to generate results. OneClick Loyalty establishes close ties between the dealer and customer, commencing with the ceremonial photo of the happy customer taking delivery of their new vehicle. It is the point of highest emotional engagement, and OneClick Loyalty is designed to take full advantage of the moment; the main objective of the in-showroom step is to ensure the customer shares their purchase with friends and relatives on Facebook and other social media.

The OneClick Loyalty digital platform consists of over 50 pre-built components including:

social sharing and community events,

referrals, service reminders and seasonal maintenance tips,

upsell accessories and extended service plans,

collection of customer intent at the end of lease or loan,

special offers, social reviews, mileage calculator,

and customer satisfaction, hobbies/interests and life event surveys

Under OneClick Loyalty, communication continues systematically over 50 distinct customer touchpoints for retail customers, and over 30 touch points for lease customers. Given our extensive industry experience understanding both the differences and kind of information each customer requires. Of critical importance is the fact that OneClick Loyalty is completely turnkey for dealers. A content help desk also sets up the dealer, and then remains available to support any changes and updates each dealer desires.

"Traditionally, dealership digital applications are geared for customer acquisition," said Paula Tompkins, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of ChannelNet. "What sets OneClick Loyalty apart is our ability to stay connected across the entire ownership lifecycle for each and every dealer customer."

OneClick Loyalty dealer customers confirm the multiple benefits derived from the platform.

"OneClick Loyalty costs a fraction of what a typical dealer spends on CRM systems, leads, websites and search engine marketing," said Naz Ses, Vice President of Sales, Sesi Motors, in Ann Arbor, Mich. "OneClick Loyalty helped us increase service revenue, cross sell accessories and extended service plans, generate referrals and get customers back in to purchase their next vehicle."

As the only digital customer retention solution built by automotive experts for today's automotive dealership designed to drive retention, OneClick Loyalty increases service revenue, gathers referrals, andultimately--converts every buyer into a customer for life.

ABOUT CHANNELNET

ChannelNet is a pioneering leader in delivering customer acquisition and retention services via mobile and web-based solutions that work across channels and devices. Using software-as-a-service (SaaS), our patented software platform connects leading automotive, home improvement and financial services companies with their customers, in order to sell products through brick and mortar, call center, field sales and digital sales and service channels. Privately-held, ChannelNet was founded 32 years ago in Silicon Valley with an office in Dearborn, Michigan. More information on the company is available at www.oneclickloyalty.com and www.channelnet.com ; Twitter: @channelnet.

SOURCE ChannelNet

Related Links

http://www.channelnet.com


MORRIS PLAINS, N.J., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --CherryRoad Technologies Inc. today announced it has signed a NASPO ValuePoint Participating Addendum with the State of Hawaii, allowing the State to simplify their entire cloud procurement process. CherryRoad markets its cloud solutions and managed services to state and local governments through NASPO ValuePoint's Master Agreement awarded by the State of Utah.

The State of Hawaii, which is the third State following in the footsteps of the States of Utah and South Dakota to sign the Participating Addendum, can now access master agreements to work directly with CherryRoad to address their unique cloud solution needs. Cloud solutions provided by CherryRoad include Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) - which were developed specifically for state and local governments.

"NASPO ValuePoint emphasizes best value from its contractors considering price, quality, reliability, and service while protecting states' best interests," said Larry Hymson, CherryRoad's Executive Vice President of Client Solutions. "The State of Hawaii is now positioned to achieve greater savings for its constituents and leverage leading technology initiatives with flexibility and improved efficiency via cloud computing solutions."

NASPO ValuePoint is regarded as the nation's most significant public contract cooperative due to its unparalleled value for members as well as contractors, competitive pricing, and superior terms and conditions. NASPO ValuePoint Cloud Solutions Master Agreements are only awarded through a competitive RFP to a limited number of cloud solution providers whose offerings meet stringent security and data protection requirements.

About CherryRoad Technologies Inc.

At CherryRoad, our clients entrust us with the success of their IT solutions, whether we're delivering on-premise ERP, cloud-based application management, business intelligence, process optimization, or change management consulting. Throughout our 30-year history we've successfully partnered with hundreds of public sector and commercial clients to modernize, optimize and manage their back-office functions. Headquartered in Morris Plains, N.J. with offices across the U.S., we've earned a solid reputation for combining technology, organizational, functional, and vertical market expertise into practical solutions that deliver results  on-time and on-budget. For more information, visit www.cherryroad.com

About NASPO ValuePoint

NASPO ValuePoint is a unified, nationally focused cooperative aggregating the demand of all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the organized US territories, their political subdivisions and other eligible entities spurring best value, innovation and competition in the marketplace. The NASPO ValuePoint Cooperative Purchasing Organization (formerly WSCA-NASPO) provides the highest standard of excellence in public cooperative contracting. By leveraging the leadership and expertise of all states with the purchasing power of their public entities, NASPO ValuePoint delivers best value, reliable, competitively sourced contracts. Since 1993 NASPO ValuePoint has been the cooperative purchasing arm of NASPO (the National Association of State Procurement Officials) encouraging, fostering and guiding the nation's most significant public contract cooperative.

SOURCE CherryRoad Technologies Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cherryroad.com


CUPERTINO, CA, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - Fair-In law firm filed a new complaint against Apple's unreasonable App Store review guidelines on behalf of 31 local developers in China.

On August 8th, Daxiao, a Chinese law firm, lodged a complaint with the Chinese government about Apple removing apps from its App Store without a detailed explanation of its unreasonable 4.3 Review Guideline.

Things are getting much more serious. There are more than 31 developers complaining about Apple's unreasonable 4.3 App Store review guideline . Xu Yun, a lawyer from Chinese Fair-In law firm, said: "We have formally filed this complaint with China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce and hope it can be resolved soon."

According to the lawyer, this guideline is vague and subjective depending on how each Apple reviewer feels. The application of this guideline is also erratic and random.

While reviewers remove many apps with similar design for different markets, they leave many untouched. The lawyer said: "If you search "Toyota dealer", you will find many apps using the same design as Toyota's app, like Ford, Honda, Hyundai, GM, Chrysler, etc. This also happens to apps like Days Inn. They are all the same but none of them get removed. This is a clear violation of Apple's 4.3 spam policy and obviously it is unfair to other developers. "

"If Apple looks into these 31 developers carefully, they will easily find that all these apps target different people and each one has its own database. Also these apps were approved before but got removed suddenly without giving any detailed reason. Our developers have tried many times to communicate with Apple but still don't know the reason. If Apple wants others to obey their rules, maybe they should follow their policy first," Xu Yun said.

A developer also pointed out that, "We believe that the 4.3 rule is really confusing and unreasonable. After getting removed, we changed the app design according to Apple's 4.3 reviewing rule and submitted to Apple but the status is still waiting for review for over 3 weeks without any explanation. Apple just ignores its developers even if they are doing their best to satisfy Apple now? Apple also requests developers to put their 2 or 3 apps into one container even though those apps target different groups of users. Putting them into one container only confuses all users with very bad user experiences!"

Steve Jobs had been relentless in trying hard to provide users around the world with the best product and best user experiences - not just unique design. In fact, he failed many times early in his career when he tried to be just unique. We don't think Steve would agree with the current Apple practice of sacrificing product quality and user experiences in exchange for having different looking products. In fact, many of the removed apps provide much better product quality and user experiences than the untouched apps. The traffic and user-retention rates for them are much higher. The market decides the winners, not Apple's unique-design-crazy reviewers.

Mobile platforms iOS, Android and Windows are fighting over developers. Apple is driving away tons of developers due to its misleading policy of focusing on the look, instead of the product quality and user-experiences. It is time for Apple to make the "right" decision now before being deserted by more and more developers.

SOURCE Xu Yun
Each year, the Health Care Innovators awards honor the people and companies who are disrupting healthcare and biotechnology while solidifying Greater Philadelphia's reputation as a center for innovation. The Philadelphia Business Journal selected CloudMine because of its Connected Health Cloud, a secure, cloud-based platform that allows healthcare and pharmaceutical organizations to build connected digital health applications. Also noted were its customers - including the American Heart Association and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals - and its numerous recent accolades.

Among these accolades were designation as a Leader in The Forrester Wave: Enterprise Health Clouds, Q3 2017; a 2017 CODiE Award for Best Healthcare Technology Solution; and recognition as a Top Cloud Computing Blog of 2017.

CloudMine was recognized in a cohort of 14 Health Care Innovators, including the University of Pennsylvania Health System, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Spark Therapeutics, R-Health, Neuronetics Inc., MANNA, Keystone First, Guardian Nurses Healthcare Advocates, Genomind, Genesis Rehab Services, CSL Behring, Basil Leaf Technologies, and Greenphire.

"If we are to fully realize the promise of innovation in healthcare and pharma, health IT must catalyze a better-connected ecosystem," said Wray. "Without secure and agile solutions, however, there are simply too many barriers to achieving that vision. CloudMine is honored to be named a Health Care Innovator because the true ingenuity of our Connected Health Cloud is that our 'innovation' powers yours, enabling the care and research advances that are transforming patients lives."

CloudMine's Connected Health Cloud provides the interoperability, digital health development tools, and out-of-the-box security to empower precision medicine and tailor healthcare to individuals. The three pillars of the Connected Health Cloud are the Interoperability Engine, connecting to health data sources such as pharmacy benefit managers, sensors, wearables, and electronic health records; Developer Tools, which simplify web, mobile, and IoT app development with front and back-end tools to quickly and seamlessly build digital health apps; and Data Security, allowing customers to build robust applications and interface between a variety of systems without compromising patient data.

To learn more about CloudMine, visit www.cloudmineinc.com.

About CloudMine

CloudMine is the leading HIPAA-compliant Enterprise Health Cloud platform. CloudMine empowers healthcare organizations to rapidly and confidently develop connected digital health experiences by reducing complexity, enabling data mobility, and ensuring compliance. Recognized by industry analysts for their vision, collaboration, and ability to scale, CloudMine is partnering with a diverse portfolio of customers, such as the American Heart Association and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, to successfully address many of the biggest challenges in the digital transformation of healthcare. For patients, providers, clinical investigators and digital innovators, connected healthcare is better healthcare. For more information, visit http://www.cloudmineinc.com, call (855) 662-7722, or follow @cloudmineinc on Twitter.

CONTACT: Elysse Ciccone

(609) 505-3565

[email protected]

SOURCE CloudMine

Related Links

https://cloudmineinc.com


GENEVA, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Baluchistan House, an independent Think Tank hosted an event titled "Baluchistan bleeding through a thousand cuts", on September 15 at the UN in Geneva. The conference was moderated by Paulo Casaca, Executive Director of the Brussels based South Asia Democratic Forum (SADF), and other panelists included Jacek Wlocowicz, Member of the Senate, Poland, Mehran Marri, Baluch Representative to the UN and EU, Brahamdagh Bugti, President, Baluchistan Republican Party and Siegfried Wolf, expert on South Asia at SADF.

While opening the event, Paulo Casaca informed the audience that the objective of the event was to hear the perspectives of each of the viewers on the situation in Baluchistan. In his remarks, the first speaker, Jacek Wlocowicz while enumerating the importance paid to by Poland to the protection of human rights, expressed his concern on the gross rights violations taking place in Balochistan. He also lamented that despite a plethora of evidence on such violations, the issue had failed to attract the attention of the international community and the European Union. He charged the Pakistani government, military and intelligence agencies for the ignoring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in this connection gave the example of the data collected by the Voice of the Missing Baloch Persons which recorded that in 2016 itself at least one thousand and twenty cases of Baloch people being killed and their bodies dumped.

Mehran Marri, in his speech highlighted the issue of the dwindling Baloch population. Citing the results of the recently published census in Pakistan, he informed that the Baloch population had shrunk from 61 to 55 percent in the 21 districts where the Baloch were in majority. He stated that this was a clear example of how Pakistan was gradually reducing the Baloch into a minority in their own land. Despite this trend, which Marri called a genocide 'in slow motion', he was confident that the Baloch were resilient and would not give up their fight for independence.

Seigfried Wolf, while placing his views focused on the impact of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on Baluchistan. Questioning the very legality of the CPEC, due to the corridor passing through disputed territory, Dr Wolf opined that the CPEC was a tool in the hands of a few to exploit the local resources of the regions it passed through and as a result was being opposed by the local population who were witnessing the confiscation of their land, displacement of homes and damaging their businesses.

Brahamdagh Bugti spoke on the human rights situation in Pakistan, stating that the situation was worsening day by day with the Pakistani establishment using brutal force to deny people their basic rights. He informed that many areas in Baluchistan continued to face attack by troops and helicopters forcing the locals to migrate, thereby giving the government the ease to exploit the region's natural resources with the help of foreign and local companies. He called upon the UN to force Pakistan to stop committing crimes against humanity in Baluchistan.

Concluding the session, Paulo Casaca reminded the participants that one of the key principles of the Atlantic Charter, that led to the establishment of the United Nations, clearly stated that all people had the right to self determination. This right, he opined, had been ignored in the case of Baluchistan.

SOURCE Baluchistan House
VANCOUVER, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - HIVE Blockchain Technologies Ltd. (formerly, Leeta Gold Corp.) (TSX.V:HIVE) (the "Company" or "HIVE") is pleased to announce the commencement of trading in the Company's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol "HIVE" effective at the open on September 18, 2017. This follows the completion of a $16.5 million equity financing, as announced on September 7, 2017, and the closing of the acquisition from Genesis Mining Ltd. ("Genesis") of a state-of-the-art GPU-based blockchain data centre in Reykjanes, Iceland and formation of a strategic partnership with Genesis (collectively, the "Transaction"), as announced on September 15, 2017.

The Company is also pleased to announce that it commenced mining operations and began accumulating cryptocurrency on September 15, 2017 following closing of the Transaction.

"HIVE's mission is to accelerate the blockchain sector through traditional capital markets and create long-term shareholder value," commented Harry Pokrandt, President, CEO and Director of HIVE. "We are now focused on establishing a market presence and scaling our mining business. Our facility provides us significant flexibility to mine multiple cryptocurrencies including, but not limited to, Ethereum, Monero and ZCash. We will continue to examine other alt-coins for potential opportunities."

The Board of Directors of HIVE is also pleased to announce the appointment of Frank Holmes as the Company's non-executive chairman. Mr. Holmes is the founder and CEO of U.S. Global Investors, an award winning asset management firm specializing in gold and emerging markets.

"Blockchain technology has the potential to fundamentally improve transactions for all," stated Holmes. He continued, "HIVE's partnership with Genesis provides immediate exposure to operating margins of crypto mining and a growing portfolio of coins. That makes this a unique global company out of the gate."

"The concept with HIVE is to give Genesis a footprint outside of the cryptocurrency world and build a bridge from the blockchain space to traditional capital markets," commented Marco Streng, co-founder and CEO of Genesis Group and an advisor to HIVE. Streng continued, "Genesis will support HIVE and will continue to operate separate facilities for our cloud mining customers, who will not be impacted in any way by the HIVE transaction."

Bjoern Arzt, Tobias Ebel, and Olivier Roussy Newton have also joined the Board of Directors of HIVE. Mr. Arzt and Mr. Ebel both advise Genesis and are Managing Partners of Logos Fund, a successful cryptocurrency mining investment fund based in Zug, Switzerland. Mr. Roussy Newton is an investment banker and entrepreneur focused on early stage blockchain and quantum computing firms.

Fiore Group, a management and advisory firm led by Frank Giustra, Gordon Keep, and Brian Paes-Braga, is advising HIVE. Fiore Group's principals have helped raise in excess of $5 billion in debt and equity for high-growth firms.

For more information and to register to HIVE's mailing list, please visit www.HIVEblockchain.com, which has recently been updated. Follow @HIVEblockchain on Twitter and subscribe to HIVE's YouTube channel.

On Behalf Of HIVE Blockchain Technologies Ltd.

"Harry Pokrandt"

President, CEO and Director

Forward-Looking Information



Except for the statements of historical fact, this news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. The information in this news release about the completion of the Transaction, as well as additional data centres, the business goals and objectives of the Company, any estimate of potential earnings, the execution by Genesis of its duties under the Master Services Agreement and any other obligations of other parties to Transaction agreements, and other forward-looking information includes but is not limited to information concerning the intentions, plans and future actions of the parties to the transactions described herein and the terms thereon.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, risks related to the Company's or Genesis' ability to obtain final acceptance from the Exchange for the Transaction, the cryptocurrency market or the Company's ability to successfully mine cryptocurrency, and other risks related to Transaction as more fully set out in the Filing Statement of the Company dated September 13, 2017.

The forward-looking information in this news release reflects the current expectations, assumptions and/or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. In connection with the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made assumptions about the Company's and Genesis' ability to complete the Transaction, historical prices of cryptocurrencies and the ability of the Company to mine cryptocurrencies will be consistent with historical prices and there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business. The Company has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of the Company's normal course of business. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

Any forward-looking information 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 information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

SOURCE HIVE Blockchain Technologies Ltd.
WEST CHESTER, Ohio, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Central and Southern Ohio chapter of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (CSO HIMSS) announced its Fall conference titled Interoperability: The Holy Grail of Healthcare. It will be held on Friday, October 13 at the Savannah Center, 5533 Chappell Crossing Boulevard, West Chester, Ohio.

The conference will open with a welcome from our CSO HIMSS leadership, Alex Vaillancourt, CSO HIMSS Program Chair, and Ryan Clark, CSO HIMSS President. The conference features two exciting keynote speakers including Lisa Eschv, Healthcare Executive, Americas Healthcare and Life Science, DXC Technology, as well as another keynote yet to be announced.

Breakout sessions include speakers from top Ohio healthcare systems focused on Healthcare and Information Technology challenges such as Specialty Medicine Prescriptions, Data Warehousing, Interoperability and Information Security. In addition, the conference will conclude with a panel discussion focused on Healthcare IT interoperability, associated challenges and advances in technology.

Ryan Clark, CSO HIMSS President commented that, "The CSO HIMSS Chapter is focused on offering valuable information and education to our chapter participants, and others involved with Healthcare Technology across the state of Ohio. Many of the topics discussed at the CSO HIMSS Fall Conference are emerging needs of the industry and we are excited to present new ideas, as well as share with others across the State."

Interested participants can register for the conference at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cso-himss-presents-interoperability-the-holy-grail-of-healthcare-tickets-34645636030

CSO HIMSS supports careers in healthcare information systems in Ohio. CSO HIMSS has representation from the provider, consultant and vendor healthcare industry segments and works to enhance communication and education among its over 1,100 local chapter members!

Additional information is available on the CSO HIMSS website at http://www.csohimss.org and via social media on Twitter at http://twitter.com/CSOHIMSS and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Csohimss.

Media Contact:

Jodie Penrod

(740) 441-7938

SOURCE Central & Southern Ohio HIMSS

Related Links

http://http://www.csohimss.org


First seen during the live broadcast of CBS' Emmy Awards, Dacor's "Let the Show Begin" campaign depicts a pristinely tailored and impeccably dressed supermodel, Carolyn Murphy. Murphy assesses a sterile white kitchen space, and then violently destroys it with a sledgehammer and chainsaw. In the blink of an eye, the space is transformed. Later, she purposefully strolls through her new kitchen with admiration, caressing the surfaces and interactive touch screens of the graphite stainless steel stove top, refrigerator and oven, which are all part of the Dacor Modernist Collection of appliances. The spots close with a group of friends gathered in the kitchen as it comes to life for an unparalleled culinary performance.

Each of the 15-second, 30-second, and 90-second spots, feature voiceovers that reinforce the visual kitchen revolution with comments such as, "For years, the kitchen has been ruled by rules. It's time to set it free."

In addition to the new video content, complementary print and digital ads will run through December and hone in on individual hero products from the Dacor Modernist Collection. Sample placements include the Modernist 48" Dual Fuel Pro Steam Range featured alongside the theme line, "the status quo is starting to sweat," followed with a full product description.

"Dacor is transforming the status quo and disrupting the luxury kitchen category. For far too long the space has been habitually branded with a 'pro-style cooking' or 'design museum' label," said Etienne Houseknecht, marketing director, Dacor. "With our new campaign, Dacor serves as a cultural thought leader on what it means to be a modern entertainer and invites the luxury consumer to view the category through a new lens."

The Modernist Collection takes Dacor's legacy of tech-craft to the next level by applying radical, relevant innovation with craftsmanship, skill and artistry developed over decades to profoundly reimagine the luxury kitchen. This latest suite of Dacor appliances represents the evolving role of the luxury home kitchen, and a new vision for what luxury kitchens can be.

By blending leading technology and innovation with luxury aesthetics and premium features, the Modernist Collection champions the affluent kitchen as the most important place to connect and create unforgettable meals. Complete with Wi-Fi connectivity and easily controlled by the Dacor Kitchen iQ app, the Modernist Collection of sophisticated, but inviting next-generation creative cooking, cooling and cleaning appliances allow users to check on dishes while they're cooking, adjust time and temperature, and double-check the need for an ingredient in the refrigerator from any location using the iQ app.

Assets

Dacor: "The Remodel" - Hammer

Dacor: "The Remodel"  Glass Drop

Dacor: "The Remodel" - Axe

Dacor: "The Remodel" - Chainsaw

Dacor: "The Remodel" - Explosion

Dacor Commercial: The Remodel

Dacor: "The Remodel" - Extended Version

Dacor: "The Remodel"  Full Film

Print Spreads

Credits

Broadcast

Print

About Dacor

Founded in 1965, Dacor is a leading manufacturer of ultra-premium kitchen appliances. Designed and built in Southern California, Dacor's cooking appliances integrate function, technology and design to create high-performing, intuitive products that reflect the lifestyle and needs of the passionate cook. Dacor's full suite of award-winning appliances includes ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, refrigeration, ventilation and wine preservation. The company is responsible for many of the innovations that have improved the way people cook in the modern kitchen. www.dacor.com . For additional information, please visit LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter @dacorkitchen.

SOURCE Dacor

Related Links

http://www.dacor.com


Julienne Cranberry-Orange Cooking & Baking Cranberries pair cranberry and orange flavors harmoniously and conveniently  no zesting required  in one package for ease of use. The premium dried cranberries are prepared specifically for use in batters, and add a punch of flavor to recipes for muffins, scones, cookies, and more. The julienne-style cranberries, developed to withstand cooking and baking's high temperatures, are pre-sliced to add a delicious dash of cranberry-orange to every bite  no chopping needed. In addition to the Cranberry-Orange version, Paradise Meadow also offers the original Cooking & Baking Cranberries in two varieties: whole and julienne. Cranberry-Orange will be available in the baking aisle alongside other Paradise Meadow Cooking & Baking products at grocery stores nationwide including Stop & Shop, Giant, Food Lion, Winn Dixie, Bi-Lo, Meijer, Hannaford, Price Chopper, Albertsons, Safeway, Bashas, and Food City as well as online at Amazon and on Decas Cranberry Products, Inc.'s newly updated online store at www.paradisemeadow.com .

"At Decas Cranberry Products, Inc., growing cranberries that are simply the best has been our passion for decades," said Michael McManama, president and CEO at Decas Cranberry Products, Inc. "Each year we continue to expand our cranberry product line with innovative new items and flavors, to provide more options for a new generation of home cooks. We know that cranberry and orange is already a widely-used complimentary combination, so we're excited to unite these classic flavors in a no-fuss form that makes cooking with cranberries easier and more delicious than ever."

Like all Paradise Meadow products, the Cranberry-Orange Cooking & Baking Cranberries are 100% natural, containing no artificial colors, flavors, ingredients or sulfites. The company uses only non-GMO ingredients when producing these delectable cranberries. Naturally fat free, gluten-free and kosher, Paradise Meadow products make adding delicious  and nutritious  flavor to sweet and savory recipes alike simple.

For more information, visit the Decas website at www.paradisemeadow.com and find the company on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DecasCranberryProducts.

About Decas Cranberry Products, Inc.

Decas Cranberry Products, Inc. is a third-generation family business founded in 1934 by Greek immigrant brothers  Nick, Charles and William Decas. Located in Carver, MA, the heart of Massachusetts' Cranberry Country, Decas sources its exceptional cranberries from its own 450 acres of bogs and over 150 distinctive independent cranberry farmers in the US and Canada. Decas Cranberry is committed to quality, community, and sustainability, with a mission of providing healthy, superior fruit that exceeds customers' expectations. Decas Cranberry products are available at retail under the Paradise Meadow brand, a line of all natural, non-GMO sweetened dried cranberries that include Fresh Cranberries and sweet dried cranberries in Organic, reduced sugar LeanCrans, Whole Jumbo Cranberries, Omega-3 fortified OmegaCrans, and Cooking and Baking varieties. Decas is also a dedicated ingredient company, providing food manufacturers in over 35 countries premium cranberry ingredients.

Media Contact:

Hollywood Agency

Kim MacKenzie

781-749-0077, [email protected]

SOURCE Decas Cranberry Products, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.paradisemeadow.com


WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Denison Consulting Group, Inc. an engineering consulting firm and systems integrator specializing in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), earns a place in the list of "Top 10 Manufacturing Intelligence Solution Providers 2017" by Manufacturing Technology Insights.

Denison Consulting Group is committed to delivering the "connected enterprise" and offers services spanning across operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT).

A distinguished panel comprising of CEOs, CIOs, IT VPs, including Manufacturing Technology Insights editorial board, finalized the "Top 10 Manufacturing Intelligence Solution Providers 2017" in the United States and shortlisted the best vendors and consultants.

"It is an honor to be recognized as a leader in smart manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things," says Dianne Denison, CEO of Denison Consulting Group, who is featured on the cover of the magazine. "We strive to empower businesses to effectively glean insights from their organizations that lead to greater return on investments, improved efficiency, and reduced costs."

"It's a great pleasure to include Denison Consulting Group in our ranking list for its continued success in developing cutting edge solutions that address the most urgent industry challenges and provide our growing list of satisfied customers with the highest value solution, on-time and on-budget," said Laura Davis, Managing Editor of Manufacturing Technology Insights. "I congratulate Denison Consulting Group for its achievement."

To learn more about Denison Consulting Group, visit http://denisonconsultinggroup.com/, email [email protected] or call (504) 919-4037.

ABOUT DENISON CONSULTING GROUP, INC.

Denison Consulting Group, Inc. is an experienced team of engineering and business professionals that delivers turn-key engineering and consulting solutions for manufacturing, industrial, and large commercial customers. The firm has decades of experience in consulting, automation and controls, data analytics, and cloud computing spanning across operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT). The team has a proven track record working with some of the world's largest technology companies. The Delaware-based company is a member of several industry organizations including the National Association of Manufacturers and the Industrial Society of Automation. The firm is committed to donating to the American Red Cross.

SOURCE Denison Consulting Group, Inc.

Related Links

http://denisonconsultinggroup.com


KITCHENER, Ontario, Sept 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Diva International is pleased to announce their inaugural partnership with Pomona College in Southern California. The partnership addresses issues of menstrual equity and environmental waste reduction. The college is offering all students free access to The DivaCup, a reusable menstrual care product. This initiative is the first of its kind for both Pomona College and Diva International.

Diva International Inc.

"We are delighted that this partnership will increase conversation surrounding the importance of sustainability and menstrual equity," said Sophie Zivku, Communications Manager at Diva.

Access to menstrual care is a growing concern. There is an expected 11.5 million women entering post-secondary education this fall in the United States alone (National Center for Education Statistics, 2017). On average, a person can spend upwards of $120 on disposable menstrual care products each year. Pomona College recognizes the importance of providing students with an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective alternative. The DivaCup is easy-to-use, comfortable and will not only save students money, but will potentially remove more than 250 pounds of trash per person from the waste stream over a lifetime of use.

"Pomona's initiative with The DivaCup is simply awesome. Not only do I save money from not having to buy tampons every month, I am also reducing my environmental impact in a huge way," says student-athlete Alex Seidel. "For me, knowing I'm not contributing to landfills every month is empowering!"

Working with Pomona's EcoReps, a student group dedicated to advancing sustainability on campus, the initiative includes educational sessions focusing on health and the environment. Pomona College will publicly launch their partnership with Diva International during their annual Sustainability Festival in late September. Representatives from Diva will be on campus to attend a series of events relating to menstrual care and sustainability.

As part of the partnership launch, on Sept.30, Pomona will host a free Sustainability Career Panel open to the public. The panel will include alumni who are making environmental and social advances in their careers. In addition, Sophie Zivku, Communications Manager for Diva International will speak on the panel.

Presenting students, staff and faculty with access to The DivaCup will increase conversation surrounding the importance of sustainability and menstrual equity.

About Diva International Inc.

Established in 2003, Diva International Inc., founders Francine Chambers and her daughter Carinne Chambers-Saini developed The DivaCup to offer people worldwide a reliable and more eco-friendly approach to feminine hygiene. The DivaCup provides the most convenient, clean and comfortable way to address period care while eliminating the need to buy and carry menstrual products in endless absorbencies, styles, and shapes. In addition to product innovation, Diva also invests their knowledge, time and resources in educational, community and International organizations that offer health care, empowerment, and menstrual health education to everyone (or all ages) around the world.

About Pomona College

Located in Claremont, California, Pomona College is one of the nation's leading liberal arts colleges. Established in 1887, Pomona is known for its quality academic programs, a challenging curriculum, close relationships between students and faculty and a range of student research and leadership opportunities.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Sophie Zivku

Communications Manager

[email protected]

519-896-8100 x 206

SOURCE Diva International Inc.

Related Links

http://divainternational.ca


WESTON, Mass., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- What if you woke up before your alarm went off, grinning ear to ear with eagerness to get to your job? Everyone deserves to have a job that makes them smile. So Monster, a global leader in connecting people and jobs, and kununu, the original employer review and ratings platform, have partnered to find the U.S. companies and industries whose workers are the happiest. Today, and throughout the week of September 18, their initial findings will be made available in five editions of the Monster  kununu Workplace Happiness Index**, which was developed from an analysis of the more than 500,000 U.S. employee rankings and reviews posted on kununu, in combination with an analysis of job postings from Monster.

Today, Monster and kununu are unveiling the first two in a series of five rankings from the Workplace Happiness Index:

Top 10 Companies for Worker Satisfaction -- #1 is Omni Systems, Inc.

The winners are a diverse mix that crosses the industrial spectrumfrom a printing company to a fast food chain. The full list of Top 10 Companies for Worker Satisfaction is as follows:

Omni Systems  4.60 Berkshire Hathaway  4.09 REI  4.06 Progressive  3.97 Kaiser Permanente Insurance Company  3.96 United States Army  3.91 TJX Companies  3.90 In-N-Out Burger  3.82 Delta Air Lines, Inc.  3.75 Wawa, Inc.  3.74

Top 10 Industries for Worker Satisfaction -- #1 is Tax Consulting/Auditing

Other surprising industries that came out on top include market research and secondary education. The full list of Top 10 Industries for Worker Satisfaction is as follows:

Tax Consulting/Auditing  3.11 Human Resources/Staffing and Resources  2.96 Consulting  2.84 Information Technology and Services/Network Security  2.83 Research and Development/Sciences  2.81 Arts/Culture/Entertainment  2.80 Internet/Media  2.77 Purchasing  2.73 Market Research  2.72 Primary & Secondary Education/Higher Education/E-Learning  2.71

Other rankings, and their release dates, are as follows:

Top 10 Companies for Work-life Balance ( September 19 )

) Top 10 Companies for Pride in Work ( September 20 )

) Top 10 Companies for Career Development ( September 21 )

According to Chris Cho, Chief Product Officer for Monster, the Monster  kununu Workplace Happiness Index is another valuable tool to help job seekers make informed career decisions.

"These lists highlight the power of employer brand for both candidates and companies, and demonstrate Monster's commitment to helping both sides 'find better,'" says Cho. "Companies that focus on how they are perceived by candidates and employees see positive improvements in the number and quality of applicants, not to mention increased employee engagement. That's why we at Monster are committed to helping our customers to develop their unique employer value propositions and promote that message to candidates."

Moritz Kothe, CEO of kununu adds, "It's fascinating to see which industries and companies are excelling in areas that are important to today's workers, and what areas employees feel need improvement. It's up to employers to take this feedback into consideration as they compete for talent in an ever-evolving marketplace."

In creating the Workplace Happiness Index, kununu applied its 5-star rating system to 18 key dimensions of workplace satisfaction and identified the companies with the highest overall level of worker happiness. Then, Monster analyzed job-market data and hiring history at these companies, and matched it with job listings on Monster.

Monster Worldwide and kununu first partnered in the U.S. in 2016 to give job seekers a fuller picture of the jobs market and a richer view into the companies they may pursue. To date, the kununu database has over 500,000 U.S. reviews on how employees feel about their past and current work experiences, covering over 60,000 companies in 42 different industries.

** The Monster  kununu Workplace Happiness Index includes industry data provided by kununu from August 2016 to July 2017. Reviews on kununu are broken down into 18 key dimensions of workplace satisfaction with each dimension assigned a star rating. The above information is the average of those ratings over a 12 month period. Only companies with a minimum of 15 reviews were considered for these lists.

About kununu

kununu is the original employer review and ratings platform committed to creating transparency in the workplace. kununu helps people who are taking an active role in their career progression and want to learn more about companies that might be the right fit. kununu launched in the U.S. in 2016 and has collected over 500,000 reviews and more than 2 million data points in the last 12 months. Reviews are broken down into 18 key dimensions of workplace satisfaction to help Talent and HR teams attract and retain quality candidates, while providing job seekers with workplace insights that matter to make sound work-life decisions. With global headquarters in Vienna, Austria, kununu is the leading employer review platform in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The company was founded in 2007 and acquired by XING AG in 2013. See more about kununu at https://www.kununu.com/us.

About Monster Worldwide

Monster Worldwide, Inc. is a global leader in connecting people to jobs, wherever they are. For more than 20 years, Monster has helped people improve their lives with better jobs, and employers find the best talent. Today, the company offers services in more than 40 countries, providing some of the broadest, most sophisticated job seeking, career management, recruitment and talent management capabilities. Monster continues its pioneering work of transforming the recruiting industry with advanced technology using intelligent digital, social and mobile solutions, including our flagship website monster.com and a vast array of products and services. For more information, visit monster.com/about.

SOURCE Monster Worldwide, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.monster.com


ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Tonight, more than 99 percent of Irma-related outages will be restored in the following counties: Bay, Brevard, Columbia, Dixie, Flagler, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Madison, Orange (excluding the northern Orange and Lake County border), Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla. We will continue to work on isolated and scattered outages until all customers are restored.

Duke Energy today said its automated outage management system (OMS) was returning to service, enabling more accurate restoration information and assisting in speeding up final restoration work for outages that exist after nearly 1.3 million customers lost power from Hurricane Irma.

"To the many people who have given a 'shout out' to our lineman and expressed their appreciation, we thank you," said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy Florida state president. "At the same time, we deeply apologize for not meeting our customers' expectations. They expect and deserve better from us. Our customers are angry and frustrated that we could not provide them better information. I want to reassure them that we have not stopped and will not stop until our customers are restored."

Losing the automated system in the aftermath of Irma forced the company to manually track outages and estimate restoration times. Once the system is reconciled, the company will be able to provide customers with more detailed information.

With the transition back to the normal outage management system, the outage numbers may look different as the two systems are reconciled. Duke Energy has restored nearly 1.6 million outages and currently has roughly 155,800 outages system wide.

Crews have been out in the field working to restore power to remaining customers and, as a result of the damage they're seeing and the extent of the repairs required, estimated times of restoration have been revised for some areas. We expect to restore essentially all customers as follows:

By 11 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 18  Alachua , Citrus , Hernando , Levy , Marion , Seminole and Sumter counties.

, , , , , and counties. By 11 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 19  The severely impacted areas of Hardee , Highlands , Lake , Polk and Volusia counties. Also the northern Orange and Lake County border due to rebuilding the electrical system that suffered significant damage in those areas.

In some cases, service may be delayed in areas impacted by tornadoes, heavy tree and debris damage, and where a meter or other customer equipment was damaged and requires repair and an inspection.

As the OMS system is restored to full functionality, customers may receive calls from Duke Energy about their outage status as system data is updated and verified.

If you are still without power, please contact us by:

Texting OUT to 57801

Calling Duke Energy's automated outage reporting system  800.228.8485.

For the latest outage information and other company updates, visit news.duke-energy.com/irma.

About Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy Florida owns and operates a diverse generation mix, including renewables, providing about 8,800 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 1.8 million customers in a 13,000-square-mile service area.

With its Florida regional headquarters located in St. Petersburg, Fla., Duke Energy is one of the largest electric power holding companies in the United States. Its Electric Utilities and Infrastructure business unit serves approximately 7.5 million customers located in six states in the Southeast and Midwest. The company's Gas Utilities and Infrastructure business unit distributes natural gas to approximately 1.6 million customers in the Carolinas, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. Its Commercial Renewables business unit operates a growing renewable energy portfolio across the United States.

Duke Energy is a Fortune 125 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com.

The Duke Energy News Center serves as a multimedia resource for journalists and features news releases, helpful links, photos and videos. Hosted by Duke Energy, illumination is an online destination for stories about people, innovations, and community and environmental topics. It also offers glimpses into the past and insights into the future of energy.

Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media Relations

24-Hour: 800.559.3853

SOURCE Duke Energy

Related Links

https://www.duke-energy.com


AMSTERDAM, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Dusun Electron Ltd. is announcing its new Bluetooth audio module, DSI-0095, based on Qualcomm aptX Low Latency audio technology, for wireless speakers and artificial intelligence-based voice assistant products to deliver the highest audible sound quality with enjoyable listening experience over Bluetooth connectivity. With the DSI-0095 module audio data can be preserved with less than 40ms transmission latency, resulting in a voice assistance product can be used as a hands-free control device to effectively interact with visual media devices, home appliances, or car equipment by voice.

Dusun's Bluetooth audio module enables wireless speaker and artificial intelligence-based voice assistant products

The use of artificial intelligence-based voice assistants is growing rapidly. This has changed the way consumers interact with visual media such as TV and Set-Top Box to search for media content and services. However, for a Bluetooth-enabled voice assistance device to be reliably in sync with TV media content to deliver high quality audio and synchronized user experience, the sound needs to be delivered with low-latency. With its low-latency transmission, the DSI-0095 can ensure sound delivery in synchronization with what you're viewing on TV.

The DSI-0095 module has enabled Skyworth's latest Wallpaper TV to output high fidelity (Hi-Fi) audio and listen to on the Bluetooth handset and to playback music on TV from the mobile phone or other audio equipment. In addition, this module has enabled Skyworth's artificial intelligent voice assistance product to precisely deliver voice commands wirelessly to comfortably and enjoyably connect with local business and services offered by TV. "Artificial intelligence is the development trend of the TV industry for voice assistance; it is as a new way to interact with TV without needing a remote control, the high audio performance of Dusun's Bluetooth audio module is the cornerstone of its implementation", said Li Zijian, Peripheral Product Manager of Skyworth.

"By integrating aptX Low Latency technology into the new DSI-0095 Bluetooth audio module, Dusun are enabling a premium audio experience combined with the ability to allow consumers to watch video while listening to wireless audio with no lip synchronization issues," said Jonny McClintock, director, product marketing, Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd.

"Dusun is pleased to collaborate with Qualcomm to integrate its CSR8670 Bluetooth audioSoC solution with aptX Low Latency audio technology which has been used by many leading consumer electronics companies to achieve high quality, low latency audio transmission over Bluetooth," said Benny Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Dusun. "And I am excited to offer our latest Bluetooth audio module to enable Skyworth with time-to-market advantage and cost competitiveness to deliver its TV and artificial intelligence-based voice assistant products predicated on superior audio performance and design experience."

About Dusun Electron LTD

Dusun Electron Ltd., a high-growth global leader and provider of remote control and sensing technologies for emerging Smart TV and IoT is uniquely positioned with a broad-based wireless technology portfolio inclusive of ZigBee, Z-Wave, RF4CE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 3G/4G/LTE, and navigation paradigms with Voice, Touch, Motion Pointing, Gesture Recognition, and Virtual Reality Control. More so, Dusun is proactively leveraging software and hardware advancements and project developments encompassing world-class innovations for the IoT solutions including Smart Home and Smart Hotel, and Elder Care Assistance.

The company specializes in design, development, and manufacturing of innovative products and solutions that are used by the world's premier brands in such markets including Smart TV, PayTV & OTT, and IoT sectors.

With design and development excellence and core competencies in introducing many technology firsts-to-the market, Dusun further demonstrates its commitment as a world leader in its field over traditional remote control competitors. The company has expanded its products and technology platforms to include the growth of Security and Home Automation control and other IoT applications requiring wireless gateways, sensing devices as well as cloud-based management system.

Founded in Zhejiang, China in 2002, Dusun is solidly founded on the mission of deep experience in Consumer Electronics devices and is dedicated to research and development, presenting itself as an innovator in enabling its customers to excel in new interaction techniques, user experience and usability approaches.

Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd.

Dusun Media Contact:

CC Hung, Vice President of Sales and Marketing

[email protected]

(512) 773-3784

Related Images

image1.jpg

Wireless Speaker and Audio Assistant Products powered by Dusun's Bluetooth audio module

image2.jpg

Dusun's Bluetooth audio module, DSI-0095

Related Links

Bluetooth audio module, DSI-0095

SOURCE Dusun Electron
ST. LOUIS, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Elsevier, the information analytics business specializing in science and health, has launched a new, more powerful and intuitive version of the HESI assessment platform. This new solution from Elsevier will help nursing schools and educators analyze and improve student performance from admission to graduation.

The next generation of HESI, the only testing product on the market based on peer-reviewed research in leading journals, supports secure, standardized exams that can be administered on devices in a variety of settings, including classrooms, testing centers or any location with an Internet connection.

"With this launch, we are combining the leading assessment capabilities of HESI with a powerful data analytics and visualization platform designed to enhance faculty workflow and personalize communication with students through their curriculum and while preparing for licensure exams like the NCLEX," said Scott Smith, President of Education, Elsevier. "HESI now more effectively provides faculty with valuable data and convenient tools to assess student understanding of key concepts and effectively reinforce student retention of core content."

Features of the next generation of HESI include:

Mobile-friendly exam delivery, remediation and reporting;

Advanced data and analytics with insightful dashboards;

Streamlined interface that is simple and intuitive to use; and

Personalized remediation unique to each student.

"The ability for HESI to provide such targeted feedback and remediation to students as they learn is essential. Faculty can now have an increased level of trust and confidence that with HESI their students have the best opportunity to learn nursing content and be prepared to retrieve knowledge as and when needed," said Barb Schreiner, PhD, APRN, CPLP, CDE, BC-ADM, Sr. Director Assessment Content, Curriculum, and Research, Elsevier, and a leading voice in nurse education. "In my time as an educator, I have not seen a learning and assessment solution this powerful, or one tuned to address both faculty and student needs. Faculty will have actionable and targeted insight that can elevate student performance, improve outcomes and position individuals to enter the nursing profession successfully."

The HESI test preparation suite, the most trusted by nursing educators, includes HESI Patient Reviews, HESI Case Studies and HESI Practice Tests. Available supplemental resources include Elsevier Adaptive Quizzing, Drug Calculations Online, Pharmacology Online and Clinical Skills.

In addition to the HESI exams and test preparation suite, the next generation of HESI also includes several, new features that optimize how remediation is determined, consumed, and measured:

Knowledge Checks to assess student achievement and needs progressively and generate the most personalized and targeted remediation experience possible;

Mobile-friendly and alternative forms of remediation (i.e. textbook, video, quizzes) content that empower a student to study and learn when, where, and how they want;

Interactive Dashboards updated in virtually real-time allowing faculty to more closely monitor and react to student progress and performance on exams and remediation; and

Customize delivery of remediation to target students more effectively based on their exam and performance.

For more about this new version of HESI, see https://myevolve.us/nextgenhesi.

About Elsevier

Elsevier is a global information analytics business that helps institutions and professionals progress science, advance healthcare and improve performance for the benefit of humanity. Elsevier provides digital solutions and tools in the areas of strategic research management, R&D performance, clinical decision support, and professional education; including ScienceDirect, Scopus, ClinicalKey and Sherpath. Elsevier publishes over 2,500 digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell, more than 35,000 e-book titles, and many iconic reference works, including Gray's Anatomy. Elsevier is part of RELX Group, a global provider of information and analytics for professionals and business customers across industries. www.elsevier.com

Media Contact

Christopher Capot

Global Communications, Elsevier

+1-917-704-5174

[email protected]



SOURCE Elsevier
LONG BEACH, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Who: Epson will be participating in the upcoming Pack Expo show in Las Vegas with two booths to demonstrate its leading technology solutions for the packaging market.





Epson Robots will be launching a new All-in-One SCARA robot with an innovative technology feature, which reduces space requirements and simplifies setup. It addresses the need for a cost-effective and easy-to-use automation solution that is ideal for simple applications.





In addition, Epson will be showing its leading label printing solutions for the packaging market, including the SurePress digital label press and ColorWorks on-demand color label printers.



What: Robots Booth:

- The Flexion N2 6-Axis robot features a revolutionary compact folding arm design that reduces space requirements and maximizes motion efficiency.

- Epson's powerful, compact and high speed G6 6-Axis robot leads the industry with the best in class cycle time backed by precision and motion range

- Epson's C8XL 6-Axis robot is compact and powerful with a SlimLine design allowing access into places similarly sized robots cannot reach

- Epson's LS3 is a fast, compact and low cost SCARA robot perfect for manufacturers searching for a reduced cost automation solution that delivers high performance and great reliability

- Epson's G3 compact and ultra-powerful SCARA robot achieves high speed, high precision and low vibration







Label Printers Booth:

- SurePress: Epson's SurePress digital label presses deliver industry-leading precise quality with extraordinary flexibility and exceptionally accurate color reproduction, providing pre- and post-press versatility to meet the demand of various labels and package printing needs. The SurePress L-4033AW is an easy-to-operate digital label press designed to print high-quality labels. The SurePress L-6034VW is Epson's first single-pass industrial press, delivering precise quality and high-speed printing ideal for jobs across all industries. Both models deliver increased profitability with decreased production time.

- ColorWorks: Epson's ColorWorks on-demand color label printers increase productivity and reduce the cost of using pre-printed labels, delivering dependable, commercial inkjet printing with fast-drying, durable color inks. The ColorWorks C7500GE is ideal for demanding, high-volume environments that require customized glossy labels at a low cost, and it also ships with Wasatch SoftRIP Label Edition for powerful color management.

- Loftware Participation: Based on its recent partnership announcement, Epson will be showcasing the Loftware Enterprise Labeling Solutions offering in its booth. Designed to support the growing demand for color label printing, Loftware now delivers native print drivers that use EPSON ESC/Label language across its Enterprise Labeling Solutions. The native printer drivers maximize speed and performance for the Epson ColorWorks C7500 and C7500GE on-demand inkjet label printers, which is a vital part of Loftware's solutions that companies rely on to address complex labeling challenges across their global supply chains.





When: Sept. 25- 27, 2017





Where: Pack Expo Las Vegas, Las Vegas Convention Center

- Epson Robots booth S-6372

- Epson Label Printers booth S-8063

About Epson Robots

Epson Robots is a global leader in PC controlled precision factory automation, with an installed base of well over 55,000 robots worldwide and a product line of hundreds of models of easy to use SCARA, Cartesian and 6-Axis robots based on a common PC based platform. Building on a 35+ year heritage, Epson Robots today delivers robots for precision assembly and material handling applications in the aerospace, appliance, automotive, biotechnology, consumer product, electronics, food processing, medical device, pharmaceutical, plastics, semiconductor, and telecommunication industries. For more information, visit www.epsonrobots.com

About Epson

Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to connecting people, things and information with its original efficient, compact and precision technologies. With a lineup that ranges from inkjet printers and digital printing systems to 3LCD projectors, smart glasses, sensing systems and industrial robots, the company is focused on driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in inkjet, visual communications, wearables and robotics.

Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 72,000 employees in 88 companies around the world, and is proud of its contributions to the communities in which it operates and its ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impacts.

Epson America, Inc., based in Long Beach, Calif., is Epson's regional headquarters for the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. To learn more about Epson, please visit: epson.com. You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (facebook.com/Epson), Twitter (twitter.com/EpsonAmerica), YouTube (youtube.com/EpsonAmerica), and Instagram (instagram.com/EpsonAmerica).

Note: EPSON, SurePress and ColorWorks are registered trademarks and EPSON Exceed Your Vision is a registered logomark of Seiko Epson Corporation. Flexion is a trademark of Epson America, Inc. All other product brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.

SOURCE Epson America, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.epson.com


HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ethosIQ, a Houston-based, veteran-owned data analytic and software solution company, is honored to announce their verification as a certified Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) through the Department of Veterans Affairs' Vets First Verification Program.

The Vets First Verification Program prioritizes and rewards funds to legitimate firms owned and operated by Veterans and Service-disabled Veterans. Eligible candidates are verified in accordance to Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations, inspecting applicants of eligibility, ownership and control. To qualify for participation in the Veterans First Contracting Program, eligible SDVOSBs/VOSBs must first be verified.

"ethosIQ is pleased to have gained the Veteran Owned Small Business certification. I personally believe Veterans are a symbol of what makes our nation great, and we must never forget all they have done to ensure our freedom. For that reason, I wanted to ensure ethosIQ found partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs' Vets First Verification Program," said Scott Walker, CEO of ethosIQ.

Because the Department of Veterans affairs is one of the largest procurement and supply agencies in the federal government, this certification allows ethosIQ to connect with other VOSBs, the Veteran Affairs' large prime contractors and government agencies.

For more information, call (281) 616-5711 or (888) ethosIQ, e-mail [email protected] or visit http://www.ethosIQ.com

About ethosIQ

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, ethosIQ's cloud and premised-based software has delivered business intelligence to multinational corporations and government agencies since 2009. ethosIQ's award-winning software collects, correlates and presents data from multiple, disparate systems, empowering organizations to make informed, real-time decisions. ethosIQ software solutions provide analysis and actionable insights that enable enterprise and government organizations to deliver better customer experience while ensuring operational efficiencies and maximize technology investments. We provide the data that enables decisions in minutes, not days or weeks.

Trademarks

ethosIQ is a registered trademark

SOURCE ethosIQ

Related Links

http://ETHOSIQ.COM


KAUKAUNA, Wis., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Expera Specialty Solutions is proud to be exhibiting at PackExpo 2017, highlighting a diverse portfolio of specialty paper products that span a variety of end-use applications. From highly technical applications, to offering multiple sustainable packaging solutions, Expera creates custom specialty paper products for each of their customers.

Expera is launching its new brand of medical papers known as Health-Gard. Health-Gard medical papers provide sterilizable packaging solutions that meet market requirements for cytotoxicity and microbial barrier. These coating base papers, available in multiple basis weights, are ideal for form-fill-seal and pouch applications where a fiber-free peel is critical. Other Health-Gard applications include papers for medical lidding stock and lamination, and medical garments and drapes.

In addition, at PackExpo 2017, Expera will be featuring sustainable product offerings along with products from multiple brands including food packaging and processing papers and industrial and technical papers.

Expera Specialty Solutions prides itself in its world-class quality and clean systems that meet FDA requirements. Expera also carries ISO certification, and is triple chain-of-custody certified in the area of forest certification.

"We believe our customers deserve a wide variety of options to protect their products and serve their clientele, but also provide unique functionality for a diverse array of applications," explained Robyn Buss, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Expera Specialty Solutions. "Our new innovative Health-Gard papers offer the durability, cleanliness, and exceptional product performance required for demanding medical applications."

Expera Specialty Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer of specialty paper products for use in the tape, pressure-sensitive release liner, industrial and food packaging segments. Expera Specialty Solutions' manufacturing platform includes machines at four Wisconsin mills located in Kaukauna, Mosinee, Rhinelander, and De Pere.

Expera can be found at PackExpo 2017 Booth Number 8134, located in the Upper South Floor.

For more information, visit the Expera's website at expera.com.

Expera Specialty Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer of specialty paper products for use in the tape, pressure-sensitive release liner, industrial and food packaging segments. Expera Specialty Solutions' manufacturing platform includes machines at four Wisconsin mills located in Kaukauna, Mosinee, Rhinelander, and De Pere. For more information, visit www.expera.com.

SOURCE Expera Specialty Solutions

Related Links

http://www.expera.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The power and proliferation of fake online news stems not only from its apparent ubiquity but also from a sense of the presence of others that social media sites create, according to new research conducted by Gita Johar, the Meyer Feldberg Professor of Business at Columbia Business School, along with doctoral students Rachel Meng and Youjung Jun. The researchers found that when people are presented with claims whose veracity is ambiguous they are less likely to fact-check the claims when the information is consumed in a group setting.

In their paper, Perceived Social Presence Reduces Fact-Checking, the researchers conducted eight experiments to evaluate how the presence of others affects the way that people evaluate information and, in particular, the extent to which people verify ambiguous claims.

The researchers had participants evaluate a range of different statements on simulated websites to test their hypothesis. In one experiment, participants gave responses (true, false, or flag) for 36 statements described as news headlines published by a U.S. media outlet, such as "Scientists have officially declared the Great Barrier Reef to be dead" or "Undocumented immigrants pay $12 billion a year into Social Security". Throughout the task, half of the participants saw their own username displayed alone on the side of the screen, while the other half saw those of 102 respondents described as currently logged on, presumably completing the same task. People fact-checked fewer statements when they perceived that others were present.

Overall, the studies focused on individuals' scrutiny of, rather than belief in, the information they consume. According to the researchers, perceiving the company of others seemed to influence people's willingness to verify information, not how much they believed it.

The researchers advanced three possibilities for why collective settings may suppress fact checking:

Individuals may exert less effort (and hence be less likely to fact-check claims) because they expect to 'free ride' on others; People may abide by social norms that lead them to take the words of others at face value; or Crowds may inherently cause people to feel 'safety in numbers,' which decreases vigilance in general.

The evidence largely supported the third possibility, suggesting that social contexts impede fact-checking by lowering people's guards instinctively. Across eight experiments, participants flagged 35 percent fewer statements on average for later fact-checking on simulated news sites when they believed they were working in a group setting compared to when they believed they were working alone. However, when the researchers had participants first do exercises to momentarily induce a vigilant mindset, those in a group setting fact-checked nearly twice as many statements as those who weren't given such encouragement.

"Animals in the wild hide out and feel safer in herds and, similarly, we feel safer in a crowd," said Johar. "When applied to information consumed on social media, this same instinct results in lower fact-checking."

Fact-Checking in the Current Political Climate

Fake news continues to be a global problem. Since the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee opened its investigation into allegations that Russia hired as many as 1,000 people to create fake news stories, false news stories have rattled the French election and upset the primary process in the Kenyan election. These stories can have a powerful and multiplying effect since the average person spends almost two hours each day on social media sites1 consuming and circulating news and information.

When it comes to political discourse specifically, personal beliefs play an important role and, not surprisingly, those beliefs tend to follow party lines. For example, in one study reported in the paper, Democrats evaluated liberal candidates' statements as more true and, conversely, Republicans evaluated a conservative candidate's statements as more true. However, participants continued to fact-check political statements less often in a group compared to an individual setting. Political alignment, then, only seemed to affect whether people rated a statement as true, not how much they were willing to verify that statement

To learn more about the cutting-edge research being conducted at Columbia Business School, please visit www.gsb.columbia.edu.

About Columbia Business School

Columbia Business School is the only worldclass, Ivy League business school that delivers a learning experience where academic excellence meets with realtime exposure to the pulse of global business. Led by Dean Glenn Hubbard, the School's transformative curriculum bridges academic theory with unparalleled exposure to realworld business practice, equipping students with an entrepreneurial mindset that allows them to recognize, capture, and create opportunity in any business environment. The thought leadership of the School's faculty and staff, combined with the accomplishments of its distinguished alumni and position in the center of global business, means that the School's efforts have an immediate, measurable impact on the forces shaping business every day. To learn more about Columbia Business School's position at the very center of business, please visit www.gsb.columbia.edu.

1 Social Media Today, http://www.socialmediatoday.com/marketing/how-much-time-do-people-spend-social-media-infographic

SOURCE Columbia Business School

Related Links

http://www.gsb.columbia.edu


FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Fernhill Corporation (OTC PINK: FERN) announces patent application for a Capacitor-Lithium hybrid battery storage system with integrated system management. This application could provide a fully functional solution that provides an array of features including charge control monitoring and protection for multiple EDLC capacitors and a lithium battery bank with individual unit monitoring and balancing.

By using high performance analog peripherals, the system can measure and maintain an accurate record of available capacitance, state-of-health, voltage, current, temperature, and other critical parameters. The management system could also provide protection on overvoltage, over temperature, and overcharge along with hardware controlled protection for overcurrent in discharge, and short circuit protection during charge and discharge.

By incorporating two technologies, together with sophisticated balancing controls both in the individual unit level as well as the system level creates a solution with the combined advantages of two already proven technologies. In addition, this design can allow for greater flexibility in system stability, capacity, and thermal safety while accelerating charging speeds, and offering higher current availability.

A hybrid storage system could be customized to address a significant array of applications that are difficult to address with one technology alone. Future development of this technology could provide advanced solutions for emergency and portable power, electric vehicles, heavy equipment, and uninterruptable power supplies for computers and telecommunication equipment.

The above patent will be filed in Fern Technology Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Fernhill Corporation. The Company has engaged BOAG Law PLLC of New York to assist in the patent filing process. BOAG Law will provide services for preparing and filing the application, along with responding to communications from the USPTO.

About Fernhill Corporation

Fernhill Corporation is a holding company focused in the energy and technology sector. Incorporated in Nevada with operations in North America, Fernhill Corporation is focused on acquisitions and or partnerships in energy based sector businesses.

Safe Harbor Act: Forward-Looking Statements are included within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements regarding our expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financing plans, business strategy, products and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of management for future operations, including words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will," and other similar expressions are forward-looking statements and involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance, or achievements. We are under no obligation to (and expressly disclaim any obligation to) update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE Fernhill Corporation
DUBLIN, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Fly Leasing Limited (NYSE: FLY) ("FLY"), a global leader in aircraft leasing, today announced that Wesley Dick, Senior Vice President, is scheduled to present at the RBC Capital Markets Aircraft Leasing Investor Day in Los Angeles, California on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 at 3:05 PM PDT.

A live webcast of the presentation will be available on the Events page in the Investor Relations section of FLY's website at:

http://www.flyleasing.com/investor-relations/events/

An archived replay of the webcast will be available on the website for 90 days.

About FLY

FLY is a global aircraft leasing company with a fleet of modern, high-demand and fuel-efficient commercial jet aircraft. FLY acquires and leases its aircraft under multi-year operating lease contracts to a diverse group of airlines throughout the world. FLY is managed and serviced by BBAM LP, a worldwide leader in aircraft lease management and financing. For more information visit www.flyleasing.com.

Contact:

Matt Dallas

Fly Leasing Limited

+1 203-769-5916

[email protected]

SOURCE Fly Leasing Limited

Related Links

http://www.flyleasing.com


DURHAM, N.C., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- NeuroCog Trials (NCT), a clinical technology and research services company dedicated to supporting global drug development, announces the addition of former AIFA Director General, Dr. Luca Pani, as Executive Director of Global Medical Innovation. Dr. Pani will guide the company's development of innovative solutions for clinical trials methodologies and health outcomes.

During his tenure as Director General of AIFA, Dr. Pani pioneered several new approaches to drug approval, pricing and reimbursement strategies by using advanced informatics to follow and certify real-world data. These models are now being used in many other countries. As a European Regulator, Dr. Pani has not only been a leading figure for the Approval and Scientific Advice for Central Nervous System products, but also has served as Chair of the Telematics Committee. While in AIFA Dr. Pani worked on the approvals of pharmaceutical products in a broad range of all therapeutic areas including oncology, immunology, cardiovascular and CNS disorders.

"I am privileged to have someone with Dr. Pani's extraordinary background and expertise in regulatory, academic and industry science come to NeuroCog Trials as we expand the breadth of solutions we offer for clinical trial methodologies. Dr. Pani will have an immediate impact and provide deep insight and perspective into our development of innovative strategies for transforming the current landscape," said Co-Founder and CEO, Dr. Richard Keefe.

NCT offers clients global and regional study design strategies, protocol advisory and measure selection services as well as technology solutions that maximize opportunities for success by adhering to the highest scientific principles and regulatory standards across all clinical phases. Dr. Pani's expertise innovating health economics and outcomes research will become a central element of NCT's services.

Dr. Pani is the author or co-author of hundreds of publications and is an internationally recognized speaker at scientific meetings and conferences. He is also professor of Psychiatry at the University of Miami. In addition, his most recent book, Sustainable Innovation: Medicines and the Challenges for the Future of our National Health Service has been published to acclaim. He has served on the editorial boards of many prestigious scientific journals including Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Italian Journal of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, and the Italian Edition of the American Journal of Psychiatry.

He received his medical degree from the University of Cagliari, psychiatry degree from the University of Naples and completed post-doctoral training in molecular biology and pharmacology at the University of Illinois and Georgetown University.

About NeuroCog Trials

NeuroCog Trials (NCT) is a global cognition and clinical assessment services and technology company devoted to applying rigorous standards for key endpoints in multi-site clinical trials in many different indications. NCT has provided consulting, site screening, rater training and certification, translation, and data services for more than 100 clinical trials in over 25 countries. Founded in 2005, NCT is a privately held, certified woman-owned business, headquartered in Durham, North Carolina.

Contact Jenna Piunti Office +1 919 433 2429 Switchboard +1 919 401 4642 Email [email protected] Website www.neurocogtrials.com

SOURCE NeuroCog Trials

Related Links

http://www.neurocogtrials.com


HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Gastar Exploration Inc. (NYSE MKT: GST) announced that the Company's management will participate in the Johnson Rice & Company 2017 Energy Conference to be held September 25-27, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

J. Russell Porter, President and Chief Executive Officer, will make a presentation at 2:30 p.m. Central Time (3:30 p.m. Eastern) on Tuesday, September 26, 2017. The presentation will provide an update on the Company's operations and certain recent developments.

To listen to a live audio webcast and view the presentation materials, visit the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.gastar.com under Events and Presentations. A replay will also be available for rebroadcast on the Company's website.

About Gastar Exploration

Gastar Exploration Inc. is a pure play Mid-Continent independent energy company engaged in the exploration, development and production of oil, condensate, natural gas and natural gas liquids. Gastar's principal business activities include the identification, acquisition and subsequent exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties with an emphasis on unconventional reserves, such as shale resource plays. Gastar holds a concentrated acreage position in what is believed to be the core of the STACK Play, an area of central Oklahoma which is home to multiple oil and natural gas-rich reservoirs including the Meramec, Oswego, Osage, Woodford and Hunton formations. For more information, visit Gastar's website at www.gastar.com.

Contacts:

Gastar Exploration Inc.

J. Russell Porter, Chief Executive Officer

713-739-1800 / [email protected]

Investor Relations Counsel:

Lisa Elliott, DennardLascar Associates:

713-529-6600 / [email protected]

SOURCE Gastar Exploration Inc.

Related Links

http://www.gastar.com/


ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- At least one market research firm thinks that Genomic Health's deal with Biocartis may not only assist the company with reaching European markets past competitors, but also foster a trend in the IVD market. Genomic Health announced on September 13th that they have entered into an exclusive agreement under which they will develop an in vitro diagnostic version of Genomic Health's Oncotype DX breast cancer test on Biocartis' Idylla platform. Kalorama Information, a market research firm with a specialty in in vitro diagnostic market, has predicted in the past that companies may convert lab-developed tests (LDTs), performed at the company-owned laboratory, into in vitro diagnostic products that are sold to laboratories to perform themselves. Kalorama Information has covered the LDT market in its report The World Market for Molecular Diagnostics.

Under the terms of the agreement, Genomic Health will gain exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize its Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score test on Biocartis's Idylla platform, with the option to expand the collaboration to include additional tests in oncology and urology. Unlike Genomic Health's current laboratory developed tests, which users have to send out to the company's central lab, the new IVD would allow customers to perform the Oncotype DX assay locally in their own facilities.

"Molecular point-of-care technology is key here," said Bruce Carlson, Publisher of Kalorama Information. "Advanced cancer testing labs have begun establishing operations in the European market and found rapid growth in the region, but there is competition and in moving to an IVD platform, it's a way to bring their test technology to new customers that aren't accustomed to the IVD company-owned lab model."

The Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score measures the activity of 21 genes in patients' tumor tissue, providing a score that indicates risk of recurrence and helping to guide decisions about whether to use adjuvant treatment. Biocartis' Idylla platform provides a fully automated sample-to-answer, real-time PCR cartridge system Genomic Health intends to enable local pathology labs to generate Oncotype DX Breast Recurrence Score results with minimal labor, efficient turnaround time, and the consistent high quality and clinical utility that physicians and patients have come to expect when making treatment decisions with Oncotype DX.

Genomic Health will make a payment of approximately $3.3 million to Biocartis as part of the agreement. Media reports indicate that Genomic Health's plan is to launch the breast cancer IVD in Europe, beginning with France and Germany in 2019.

Kalorama notes that company-owned test service business model is primarily a phenomenon of the U.S., where there is a long history for the commercialization of highly specific assays as test services. U.S. reference labs were first to launch many groundbreaking tests in the areas of viral load testing, anatomical pathology special analyses and molecular assays. This sensitized the medical community to the value of these test services. Competition is intense for such tests in the European market. Although Genomic Health has made progress in gaining payment for the LDT version of Oncotype DX internationally, having a product more suited for Europe's decentralized lab model may help it compete more aggressively with other assays like Nanostring's Prosigna and Myriad Genetics' EndoPredict. NanoString Technologies' Prosigna Gene Signature Assay and nCounter Dx Analysis System was provided a positive assessment by Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Evidence Street in January 2017. The organization under BCBS uses scientific criteria and clinical evidence to assess medical technologies.

"Lab-developed test to IVD conversion is a trend that Kalorama has predicted in some of our past studies, though I suspect that in the U.S., the laboratory-developed test is here to stay," Carlson said.

The test service model has become a major route for highly sophisticated and specialized tests. The most successful company owned test services involve anatomical pathology (histology/cytology) and molecular assays, primarily in situ hybridization (ISH) and PCR analysis of biopsied tissue for cancer analysis The U.S. FDA's attempted implementation of an LDT approval process on par with IVD is postponed indefinitely following industry and political backlash at regulatory expansion.

About Kalorama Information

Kalorama Information, a division of MarketResearch.com, supplies the latest in independent medical market research in diagnostics, biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and healthcare; as well as a full range of custom research services. Reports can be purchased through Kalorama's website and are also available on www.marketresearch.com and www.profound.com.

We routinely assist the media with healthcare topics. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and our blog on our company website.

Please link any media or news references to our reports or data to http://www.kaloramainformation.com/.

Press Contact:

Bruce Carlson

212 807 2262

[email protected]

SOURCE Kalorama Information
ALBANY, New York, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

The Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market is foretold to gain impetus from the enactment of government statutes such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley (GLB) Act which require financial companies to ensure the confidentiality and security of customers' personal data. Such customer data could include social security numbers (SSNs), credit histories, income, account numbers, phone numbers, addresses, and names. Furthermore, a heightened response is expected from financial firms looking at the soaring prevalence and sophistication of cybercrimes since the last decade and a half.

The global financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is forecasted to register a CAGR of 14.1% during the forecast timeframe 2017-2022. By 2022 end, the market could post a revenue of US$24.3 bn. In 2017, it earned around US$12.5 bn.

Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Major Insights

The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisioned to be labeled as a faster and larger-growing one for private sector cybersecurity. Banks and financial institutions such as Bank of America are foreseen to set no bar or constraint on cybersecurity outlay due to the urgency of the time and briskly widening reach of cybercrimes. The American Bankers Association Banking Journal reported in 2016 that cyber-related threats are now ranked higher by CEOs than those associated with energy prices, asset bubbles, and fiscal crisis. Force point, in its 2015 Industry Drill Down Report, claimed that security incidents in the financial services industry occur 300 times more frequently than in other business sectors.

The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisaged to award mobile enterprise management as a commanding segment expected to secure a stronger revenue of US$4.7 bn by 2022. However, there could be more markets for financial services cybersecurity systems and services as per solution and services segmentation showing face. These could be endpoint security, identity and access management, mobile security, security information and event management, content security, data loss prevention (DLP), datacenter security, and firewall.

Avail a PDF Sample for this Research Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=30866

According to end user classification, the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is predicted to offer opportunities in segments such as banking, insurance, credit unions, stock brokerages, stock exchange, investment funds, consumer financing services, payment card and mobile payment services, and government-related financial services.

Regionally, North America is prognosticated to make the cut in the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market with a revenue of US$7.6 bn prophesied to be garnered by the end of 2022. Other markets such as Europe and Japan could also offer promising prospects in the coming years.

Download Report TOC at https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/30866

Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Vendor Landscape

Companies operating in the worldwide financial services cybersecurity systems and services market are anticipated to cash in on the opportunities birthing from building robust risk and security management programs for financial institutions. Such programs could help financial firms to empower their IT security while enjoying the confidence to innovate and compete strongly in their business. Vendors such as VMware, Inc., Akamai Technologies, Inc., Alert Logic, Inc., AlienVault, Inc., and Avast Software S.R.O. could be among the top names in the market. The report provides an all-inclusive profile account of each vendor studied.

Top Research Report by TMR:

Proximity Mobile Payment Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html Public Cloud Business Process Services Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/public-cloud-business-process-services-market.html

About Us

Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The company's exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend 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.

TMR's 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

Transparency Market Research

State Tower,

90 State Street,

Suite 700,

Albany NY - 12207

United States

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

Email: [email protected]





Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

TMR Blog: http://www.editiontruth.com/

http://www.techyounme.com/

SOURCE Transparency Market Research
DUBLIN, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

The "Global Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) Market 2017-2021" report has been added to Research and Markets' offering.

The global mono ethylene glycol (MEG) market to grow at a CAGR of 6.27% during the period 2017-2021.

Global Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market. The report presents a detailed picture of the market by way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources.

The latest trend gaining momentum in the market is Bio-based MEG: Sustainable production. There is pressure on producers for using sustainable production methods. Though most manufacturers are welcoming this, small manufacturers are finding it hard to keep up with the increasing competition. With the increase in focus on sustainability and favorable government regulations for green procurement policies, the global bio-based MEG market will experience significant opportunities in the packaging and textile industries.

According to the report, one of the major drivers for this market is Increasing demand for PET containers. The rising demand for PET containers from application industries, including packaging, is anticipated to drive the growth of the global MEG market during the forecast period. The increasing scope of application for PET in numerous consumer goods, which includes food containers and bottles, is anticipated to drive demand for MEG. Excellent strength and impact resistance properties of PET containers will propel the growth of the global MEG market.

Further, the report states that one of the major factors hindering the growth of this market is Volatile crude oil prices. Constant fluctuations in the prices of raw materials used in the production of MEG pose a challenge to MEG manufacturers. Ethylene, the major raw material of MEG, is derived from petrochemicals. The price of petrochemicals depends on the price of crude oil. Owing to the volatile political situation in Iraq, the second largest producer of crude oil in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, there is an increased volatility in the price of crude oil in the international market. This resulted in a significant rise in prices of major petrochemicals in the last five years. As the prices of MEG cannot keep up with the fluctuating prices of their raw materials, there is now a gap between the production costs and sales values of MEG manufacturers.

Key vendors

Akzo Nobel

BASF

Huntsman International

LyondellBasell Industries Holdings

Royal Dutch Shell

Other prominent vendors

Chemtex Speciality

India Glycols

LOTTE CHEMICAL

MEGlobal

NAN YA PLASTICS

Reliance Industries

SABIC



Key Topics Covered:



PART 01: Executive summary



PART 02: Scope of the report



PART 03: Research Methodology



PART 04: Introduction

Market outline

PART 05: Market landscape

Market overview

Market size and forecast

Five forces analysis

PART 06: Market segmentation by application

Global MEG market by application

Global MEG market for polyester fibers

Global MEG market for PET

Global MEG market for antifreeze and coolants

Global MEG market for other applications

PART 07: Geographical segmentation



PART 08: Decision framework



PART 09: Drivers and challenges

Market drivers

Market challenges

PART 10: Market trends

Bio-based MEG: Sustainable production

New capacities for growing market

Rising use of MEG as deicing agent

PART 11: Vendor landscape

Competitive scenario

Key market vendors

Other prominent vendors

PART 12: Key vendor analysis



PART 13: Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/p25j6q/global_mono

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com


PARIS, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Global customized corporate blended learning solutions provider goFLUENT takes home two coveted Brandon Hall Group awards for excellence: gold for the Best Unique or Innovative Learning and Development Program category with Italian telecommunications company TIM (Telecom Italia), and silver for the Best Use of Blended Learning category with multinational energy management specialist Schneider Electric. Winners are listed here.

"We always work to meet the specific needs of our clients by carefully listening to their business and training goals," said goFLUENT CEO Christophe Ferrandou. "We know that by being client-focused, we will be able to ensure impactful solutions that result in a valuable return on their investment. We are honored to be recognized for the flexibility and effectivity of the solutions we provide. It just goes to show that we are right on track with our values and our business."

For the Best Unique or Innovative Learning and Development Program category, goFLUENT worked with TIM (Telecom Italia), who sought out a solutions provider that could maximize the engagement of 50,000 employees in English language training. goFLUENT successfully deployed a tailormade and TIM-branded eLearning platform, that includes a mobile app, to cater to the varying objectives, limitations, and interests of individual employees.

For the Best Use of Blended Learning category, goFLUENT addressed Schneider Electric's needs for an effective English language training solution by providing an optimum mix of eLearning, telephone lessons, online writing lessons, and face-to-face lessons, with just the right combination of autonomy and guidance that will keep their employees motivated and engaged.

"Excellence Award winners symbolize the power and impact that Human Capital Management practices can have on a business or on any organization," said Rachel Cooke, Chief Operating Officer of Brandon Hall Group and head of the awards program. "Many organizations can have great HCM initiatives, but the standard of excellence only applies for organizations whose HCM practices truly benefit the business. That's what the Excellence Awards program stands for, and that is what Brandon Hall Group stands for."

The award entries were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, Brandon Hall Group analysts and executives based upon the following criteria: fit the need, design of the program, functionality, innovation, and overall measurable benefits.

About goFLUENT

goFLUENT is an award-winning provider of customizable blended language training solutions with over 17 years of B2B experience. As a strategic partner to organizations seeking to effectively communicate in the global marketplace, goFLUENT strives to remain on the cutting-edge of corporate training and education technology. For more information, visit www.gofluent.com.

About Brandon Hall Group

Brandon Hall Group is a HCM research and advisory services firm that provides insights around key performance areas, including Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Talent Acquisition and Workforce Management.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE goFLUENT

Related Links

http://www.gofluent.com


PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Greenspoon Marder is pleased to announce the expansion of the firm's Litigation practice group with the addition of four new attorneys to the firm's Portland office: Shareholders Leah Sykes, Aaron Matusick, William Edgar and Senior Counsel Marcel Gesmundo.

These additions to the Portland office significantly deepen Greenspoon Marder's core litigation capabilities on the West Coast focusing on multiple areas of the law including real property law, property management, landlord-tenant law, housing discrimination defense, fair housing, commercial and residential leasing and civil litigation.

"Greenspoon Marder's litigation capabilities are second to none, and we're looking forward to further strengthening our industry-leading service offerings with this exceptional roster of litigators," comments Michael Marder, Co-Managing Director of Greenspoon Marder.

Shareholder Leah Sykes serves housing providers in all legal aspects of property management with a special focus on education and fair housing discrimination defense. Ms. Sykes advises clients in the non-profit and for-profit housing markets with a great depth of knowledge of federal, state and local laws and agency regulations. She has expanded her strong litigation background to include preventative methodologies for clients, including management, business structure, corporate training and guiding the industry in legislative matters.

Shareholder Aaron Matusick specializes in landlord-tenant law. He has considerable courtroom experience fighting for owners of real property and property management companies. In addition, he represents buyers, sellers and developers of real property, with a focus on entity formation, acquisitions, sales, leasing and management. Mr. Matusick's first-hand experience as owner of a real property development company is instrumental in his consultation with clients.

Shareholder William J. Edgar joins the Litigation practice group at Greenspoon Marder, focusing on civil litigation with an emphasis on business, landlord tenant disputes and toxic tort/mold cases as well as professional and general liability cases. He litigates a wide variety of cases in state and federal courts, including real estate disputes, construction defect claims, breach of contract issues, personal injury claims and discrimination and Fair Housing Act cases. He has represented clients at trial, arbitration and mediation. Mr. Edgar's broad range of litigation experience allows him to serve clients in multiple areas of law.

Senior Counsel Marcel J. Gesmundo is a litigator with a primary focus on commercial and residential leasing and landlord tenant law. In addition to advocating for clients through all stages of litigation, he advises them on legal developments in housing laws and regularly teaches classes and seminars on the topic.

"Portland will continue to be an important market for our firm as we look to expand our firm's footprint on the West Coast and service our clients on a national level," comments Gerald Greenspoon, Co-Managing Director of Greenspoon Marder.

Greenspoon Marder opened its Portland office in January 2017 with the expansion of the Cannabis Law practice led by Shareholder Amy T. Margolis.

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 500 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

Related Links

https://www.gmlaw.com


Using HeartLegacy, Spectrum will address several business objectives, including:

resident engagement

family communications

resident legacy preservation

lead generation

digital marketing

J.R. Comita, Spectrum's Vice President of Life Enrichment, says:

"HeartLegacy is perfect for resident engagement and online marketing. Families love seeing HeartLegacy videos of their loved ones. Even better, HeartLegacy showcases how much fun we have in our beautiful communities. Online video is essential in today's world. HeartLegacy makes it easy and effective."

Spectrum properties include independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. Deployment of HeartLegacy will match the needs and personality of each community.

Walt Armentrout, HeartLegacy CEO and Co-Founder, remarks:

"Our partnership with Spectrum Retirement provides an opportunity for families and residents to connect and engage like never before. We're excited about taking the next step with Spectrum in providing a higher quality of life for all those in the continuum of care. As our two organizations continue to grow alongside one another, we will both be working towards one common goal: making their communities feel like home."

HeartLegacy currently serves senior living communities and home care agencies throughout North America with its video kiosk, Remy, and smartphone application, RemyGo. Founded in 2014, HeartLegacy upholds a mission of connecting families and preserving family legacies.

About HeartLegacy

HeartLegacy is a technology company located in Daphne, AL. Designed for senior living communities and home care agencies, HeartLegacy's solution connects seniors and families through video. Learn more at heartlegacy.com.

About Spectrum

Headquartered in Denver, CO, Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC is a leading developer, owner, and operator of retirement, assisted living, and memory care communities across the United States. Spectrum's mission is to empower seniors to continue along on their paths to personal growth, health, and wellness. Learn more at spectrumretirement.com.

Contact

Reid Gilbert

Director of Marketing

HeartLegacy, LLC

(251) 210-1682

[email protected]

www.heartlegacy.com

SOURCE HeartLegacy

Related Links

http://www.heartlegacy.com


FAIRFIELD, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Heidi Cook, a 25-Year veteran of the wine packaging industry, and most recently a packaging consultant for TricorBraun WinePak, has retired to pursue interests outside of the wine industry, according to Andrew Bottene, Senior Vice President at TricorBraun WinePak.

"Heidi has been a strong asset to TricorBraun WinePak," said Bottene. "We are grateful that she shared her talents with us for so long, and wish her well in her future ventures."

Prior to TricorBraun WinePak, Cook worked for Richards Packaging as a Sales Manager. She joined TricorBraun WinePak in 2008 as a Sales Manager.

"Over half of my life has been spent servicing an amazingly dynamic industry," said Cook. "I watched it grow from 50 wineries to over 400 in a short time."

Cook said, "I am pleased that Michelle Thornburn, who has worked so diligently and relentlessly to service this industry, will take over my responsibilities along with Derek Payne who I worked with at Richards Packaging, and has vast knowledge of the industry. Along with Andrew Bottene, I know the WinePak team will continue its success into the next phase of packaging development for our British Columbia wineries."

TricorBraun WinePak has sales of more than $150 million and its Fairfield, California, facility features more than 360,000 square feet of warehouse space and a $2-million auto repacking system. The company has additional warehousing space throughout the major wine growing regions in America and Canada.

TricorBraun WinePak is the largest wine bottle distributor in North America and a subsidiary of TricorBraun. With more than 115 years of experience, TricorBraun is one of the world's leading suppliers of bottles, jars and other rigid packaging components with annual sales approaching $1 billion and more than 41 locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia and Europe. For more information, please contact Suzanne Fenton, VP, Brand Marketing at 314-983-2010, or at [email protected].

SOURCE TricorBraun

Related Links

http://www.tricorbraun.com


LANCASTER, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Legacy Education LLC, DBA High Desert Medical College (HDMC), announces renewal of certificate of approval for the Vocational Nursing Program by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). HDMC has been offering a Vocational Nursing program since 2010. Provisional status was removed as of August 2017.

"This is an outstanding achievement for our vocational nursing program," stated LeeAnn Rohmann, High Desert Medical College President. "Our staff's hard work has confirmed our commitment to providing only the highest quality programs to our community."

Board approval guarantees students, faculty and the public that the Vocational Nursing program at High Desert Medical College meets objective and rigorous third-party standards of educational practices. The mission of the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (Board) is to protect the public. Public protection is paramount to the Board and its highest priority in exercising its licensing, regulatory and disciplinary functions.

"Approval of our vocational nursing program assures our students that they can entrust their career training with a dedicated institution that meets all of the standards set forth by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians," commented Dr. Michelle Welch, Director of Nursing at High Desert Medical College. "Students can be confident that they are making the right decision for their future career in nursing."

The next nursing class at High Desert Medical College begins Monday, October 16 at the Lancaster, California main campus. The Vocational Nursing diploma program at High Desert Medical College includes a combination of classroom study and clinical practice. Financial aid options are available to those who qualify and job placement assistance upon graduation.

About High Desert Medical College

High Desert Medical College offers comprehensive healthcare career training for today's fastest growing careers with a hands-on approach. Our staff is highly educated, experienced and offer a forward approach to education. The main campus is located in Lancaster, California with a branch campus in Bakersfield, California. High Desert Medical College is also accredited by Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) and approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). For more information, go to www.hdmc.edu or call 888-633-4362.

About the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT)

The California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (Board) protects the consumer from unprofessional and unsafe licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and psychiatric technicians (PTs). Public protection is the highest priority of the Board in exercising its licensing, regulatory and disciplinary functions. For more information, go to www.bvnpt.ca.gov.

Press Contact:

Nicole Casali Joseph

Director, Marketing & Communications

661-940-9300

[email protected]

SOURCE High Desert Medical College

Related Links

http://www.hdmc.edu


HILLSDALE, Mich., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Thursday, September 21, 2017, Hillsdale College will welcome Judge Diarmuid F. O'Scannlain, senior judge in U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, for a lecture presented by Hillsdale College's Office of the President. His talk, titled "Neither Force nor Will: The Politicization of the Judicial Branch," will draw on his 31 years of service as a federal judge to examine the shifting political role of the nation's court systems.

The event is free and open to media. For more information, contact Emily Davis at [email protected].

WHEN: Thursday, September 21, 2017

8 p.m. EDT



WHERE: Phillips Auditorium  Searle Center

315 North West Street

Hillsdale, MI 49242



WHO: Judge Diarmuid F. O'Scannlain is senior judge in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. He was appointed to the position by President Ronald Reagan on September 26, 1986, and has since worked on more than 11,000 cases and published hundreds of opinions on diverse issues. He earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1963 and went on to a career in law practice and public service as Deputy Attorney General of Oregon, Public Utility Commissioner of Oregon, and Director of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality before his investiture as a federal judge. During his tenure, O'Scannlain has also served as Chairman of the Federal Judicial Center's Advisory Committee on Appellate Judge Education and Chairman of the International Judicial Relations Committee of the U.S. Judicial Conference, in addition to many other positions relating to judicial administration and reform, and legal education.

Hillsdale College is an independent liberal arts college located in southern Michigan. Founded in 1844, the College has built a national reputation through its classical liberal arts core curriculum and its principled refusal to accept federal or state taxpayer subsidies, even indirectly in the form of student grants or loans. It also conducts an outreach effort promoting civil and religious liberty, including a free monthly speech digest, Imprimis, with a circulation of more than 3.7 million. For more information visit hillsdale.edu.

SOURCE Hillsdale College

Related Links

http://www.hillsdale.edu


BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Hope On Wheels will today present Children's of Alabama with a $250,000 Hyundai Scholar Hope Grant. The grant funds will support the research of principal investigator Dr. Julie Wolfson.

This award is part of the organization's efforts during National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. In September alone, Hope On Wheels will award 40 research grants totaling $8.5 million to institutions nationwide. This brings the organization's donation total to $130 million since Hyundai joined the fight against pediatric cancer in 1998. With this latest grant, Hope On Wheels has awarded more than $1.6 million to Children's of Alabama.

"September is a special time for all of us at Hyundai because it's National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It's a time when we honor the courageous children battling cancer while also funding the doctors and researchers that are working tirelessly to provide care and develop new treatments," said Scott Fink, chairman, Hyundai Hope On Wheels Board of Directors. "Throughout the month we will share stories of the brave children battling cancer through our campaign theme called 'Every Handprint Tells A Story' and invite the public to join our fight."

The $250,000 Hyundai Scholar Hope Grant will be officially presented to Dr. Wolfson today, September 18, 2017 at 1 p.m. Doctors and researchers that receive a grant from Hope On Wheels are named Hyundai Scholars and are presented with a special lab coat.

During the event, Birmingham-area children battling cancer will participate in the program's signature Handprint Ceremony, in which they'll dip their hands in paint and place their handprints on a white 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. Their colorful handprints on the official Hope Vehicle represent their individual and collective journeys, hopes and dreams.

The Hope On Wheels September campaign theme is 'Every Handprint Tells A Story.' This theme recognizes that there are many stakeholders in the fight to end childhood cancer  the child, family, doctors, nurses, caregivers and researchers. The public is encouraged to visit our website at HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org to view videos of child cancer fighters, learn about the work of Hope On Wheels-funded researchers or add a virtual handprint of support on the website. Supporters are also asked to join our movement to End Childhood Cancer and to share our stories on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information about Hyundai Hope On Wheels and to view a complete list of this year's grant winners, please visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org/research. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram at facebook.com/HyundaiHopeOnWheels, twitter.com/HopeOnWheels or instagram.com/HyundaiHopeOnWheels.

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS

Hyundai Hope On Wheels is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing life-saving research and innovative treatments for the disease. Hyundai Hope on Wheels is one of the largest non-profit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country, and primary funding for Hyundai Hope On Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 835 U.S. dealers. Since its inception, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has awarded more than $130 million towards childhood cancer research in pursuit of a cure.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 835 dealerships nationwide. All new Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes a 5-year/60,000-mile fully-transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com

Please visit our media website at www.hyundainews.com

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook

SOURCE Hyundai Hope On Wheels

Related Links

http://HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org


PRAGUE, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

On September 14, IBA Group - http://www.ibagroupit.com - announced the opening of its new premises in Prague, Czech Republic. The premises are intended for IBA CZ, the Czech-based development center of IBA Group.

Numerous high-profile guests, including IBA Group's customers, partners, and government officials attended the opening ceremony. The event's program included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcome addresses, a tour of the new premises, a fingerstyle guitar concert, and a molecular gastronomy show.

Sergei Levteev, IBA Group Chairman and Ales Hojka, Managing Director of IBA CZ cut the ribbon to inaugurate the opening.

Addressing the audience, Mr. Hojka said: "Moving into a larger space was a necessity for us because the capacity of the former space was no longer sufficient. We are growing in all areas of our portfolio to provide our customers with the solutions that best suit their needs. We can also organize company events in our office and are very excited to explore the new opportunities".

According to Mr. Levteev, IBA Group applies the Agile methodology when building its infrastructure. "Today, Agile is a popular software development methodology. We at IBA began using Agile long before the term was coined. We believe that people working on the same project should see each other. Communication via email or phone is not enough. Last year, we created an infrastructure for more than 1,500 people in Minsk and Gomel. Today, we are doing the same in Prague. We provide a comfortable environment for our employees, and stable teams and high quality and timely project delivery for our customers. Today's event is yet more proof that we continue following our principles, which are now called the Agile methodology," he concluded.

Following the opening ceremony, the guests had a tour of the new premises that provide a spacious and comfortable environment for the growing IBA CZ team. With high-tech teleconferencing facilities, meeting rooms, phone boxes for private phone calls, a relaxation zone, a fully equipped kitchen, and a parking garage, the new premises meet the highest requirements for modern office space.

About IBA Group:

IBA Group founded IBA CZ in Prague In 1999 and extended it to Brno in 2005. The same year, the company relocated its headquarters to Prague. Afterwards, IBA Group expanded its offices in Brno and in Prague, and established an office in Ostrava (2015) to meet customer demands for near-shore software development services.

SOURCE IBA Group
More than 150 owners have already expressed interest in the brand demonstrating the strong demand and great potential for avid hotels in this market segment. IHG expects the first avid hotels locations to begin construction in early 2018, and the first hotel is anticipated to open in early 2019.

Keith Barr, Chief Executive Officer, IHG, said: "We built our Holiday Inn Express brand into a hugely successful, leading midscale brand. Now, with the introduction of avid hotels, we're set to add another one and extend IHG's leadership position in this segment. With 14 million potential customers looking for the type of hospitality avid hotels will offer, this new hotel brand represents a significant growth opportunity for IHG and our family of owners."

This brand is designed for travelers who want a hotel stay that finally meets their expectations for the type of hospitality they value most  the basics done exceptionally well  at a price point expected to be about $10-15 less than IHG's industry-leading Holiday Inn Express brand.

Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer, IHG, The Americas, added: "Our extensive consumer research and conversations with owners identified a clear opportunity to reach an important set of business and leisure travelers in a vastly underserved $20 billion segment of the U.S. midscale market. We applied our insights, expertise and scale to deliver an experience that features modern and stylish designs, superior guest rooms and public spaces and great service  all at an excellent value. I have no doubt avid hotels will continue IHG's success in delivering what our guests want, while driving superior returns for our owners."

New brand features shared for the first time today:

avid hotels logo illustrates the brand's confident and modern design. In its confident and refreshing colors of red and aqua, the logo features a signature checkmark, which acts as a stamp of confidence that avid hotels will deliver an unrivaled experience. This brand is the first to launch using IHG's master brand mark  An IHG  Hotel  in communications and building signage, underlining its strength as part of one of the world's leading hotel companies.

In its confident and refreshing colors of red and aqua, the logo features a signature checkmark, which acts as a stamp of confidence that will deliver an unrivaled experience. This brand is the first to launch using IHG's master brand mark  An IHG Hotel  in communications and building signage, underlining its strength as part of one of the world's leading hotel companies. Exterior and public space renderings for avid hotels bring the brand experience to life. Setting the brand apart, the modern exterior hotel design includes an open and airy retail-like entry, a canopy and uses the stairwell as an eye catching red architectural feature. On the inside, guests will find vibrant, open public and work areas and inviting communal spaces that allow guests to relax, work, connect or eat. Hotels will offer a focused, high-quality, complimentary breakfast and marketplace options made for guests on the go. The entire hotel will be equipped with IHG Connect  Wi-Fi with the fastest speed in the industry and the ability for loyalty members to be automatically connected for all future visits. Hotels will also leverage IHG's state-of-the-art, cloud-based next generation reservation system, and guests will benefit from the power of IHG  Rewards Club at avid hotels .

Setting the brand apart, the modern exterior hotel design includes an open and airy retail-like entry, a canopy and uses the stairwell as an eye catching red architectural feature. On the inside, guests will find vibrant, open public and work areas and inviting communal spaces that allow guests to relax, work, connect or eat. Hotels will offer a focused, high-quality, complimentary breakfast and marketplace options made for guests on the go. The entire hotel will be equipped with IHG Connect Wi-Fi with the fastest speed in the industry and the ability for loyalty members to be automatically connected for all future visits. Hotels will also leverage IHG's state-of-the-art, cloud-based next generation reservation system, and guests will benefit from the power of IHG Rewards Club at Guest room renderings highlight unique hotel features. Rooms are constructed with sound reducing features for a superior night's sleep, and the bathroom experience re-energizes guests with a fresh and bright design. Each guest room will also offer a dedicated workspace and ample open, easy-to-use storage, as well as innovative in-room entertainment options that allow guests to cast content from their smart devices to in-room televisions.

In addition to creating the brand to delight guests, its design and operating model was developed in collaboration with an owner advisory board, ensuring that avid hotels are efficient to build, operate and maintain. Hotels will be designed for new build construction on an average lot size of approximately 1.5 acres, and all avid hotels will be built to lead the industry in environmentally friendly and efficient design. The prototype design features 95-100 keys with a minimum of three stories.

Key elements of the initial owner offer include:

Five percent royalty fee

First 100 signed license agreements will be eligible for a two percent fee discount in year one and one percent fee discount in year two (2/1 royalty fee reduction)

To learn more, visit avidhotels.com and follow along at: facebook.com/avidhotels/, twitter.com/avidhotel and instagram.com/avidhotels/.

Notes to Editors:

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global organisation with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, EVEN Hotels, HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Holiday Inn Resort, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.

IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns more than 5,200 hotels and nearly 780,000 guest rooms in almost 100 countries, with more than 1,500 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG Rewards Club, our global loyalty programme, which has more than 100 million enrolled members.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. More than 350,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit www.ihg.com for hotel information and reservations and www.ihgrewardsclub.com for more on IHG Rewards Club. For our latest news, visit: www.ihgplc.com/media and follow us on social media at: www.twitter.com/ihg, www.facebook.com/ihg and www.youtube.com/ihgplc.

SOURCE IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)

Related Links

http://www.ihg.com


BEIJING, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Inspur and Intel announced its new generation of integrated gene-appliance, GeneEngine M2. This new integrated genetic analysis with BIGstack solution of Inspur R&D combines the latest Intel compute and acceleration technologies. In comparison with the previous generation, GeneEngine M2 demonstrated a three times performance increase in genome-wide analysis and tests in real-life use.

Inspur GeneEngine M2 is based on Intel BIGstack architecture and includes the latest GATK3.8 version and Cromwell / WDL process management system. The measured data in real-life indicated that by using the new generation of dual-socket Intel Xeon Gold processor, Inspur GeneEngine M2 run time was reduced by 23% and 37% respectively for gene sequence-alignment and find-mutation business critical processes when compared to the previous generation. In addition, by using Inspur F10A FPGA card with Intel Arrial10 chip, and combined with Falcon Computing for GATK acceleration, the performance of the entire gene analysis process in Inspur GeneEngine M2 can be increased by 3.4 times over its previous generation.

With the recent rapid development of high-throughput sequencing technology, the data volume from single sequencing has been greatly increased. This has brought big challenges for the backend genetic data calculation processes. For example, Illumina launched Nova Seq in 2017 which has a maximum input of 48 human genomes and only requires 40 hours for a single-run to generated 6TB of data while before, the processing of single person genome generally took 5 days to complete. Now, by relying on Inspur new generation GeneEngine M2 and using BIGstack program integrated with the latest acceleration technologies, GeneEngine M2 can make the entire genome data processing time greatly reduced to meet the output of next generation sequencers.

Liu Jun, General Manager of Inspur Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Server Product division said: "The new generation of Inspur integrated gene-appliance GeneEngine M2 can meet the customers' need for faster and better genetic data analysis on-premise, provide a better user experience and excellent performance. The increase of the efficiency of genetic analysis is a stepping stone for further acceleration in development of precise medical care".

About Inspur

Inspur is the leader in intelligent computing and ranked top five in worldwide server manufacturing. We provide cutting-edge hardware design and deliver extensive AI product solutions. Inspur provides customers with purpose-built servers and AI solutions that are Tier 1 in quality and energy efficiency. Inspur's products are optimized for applications and workloads built for data center environments. To learn more, http://www.inspursystems.com.

SOURCE Inspur Electronic Information Industry Co., Ltd

Related Links

http://www.inspursystems.com


Dr. Marisa Lopez-Teijon, director of Institut Marques, Dr. Alex Garcia-Faura, scientific director of the center, and Lluis Pallares, creator of the Babypod vaginal device, explained the conclusions of the study at MIT. Dr. Alberto Prats, Professor of Anatomy and Human Embryology of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Barcelona, is also part of the research team.

This session at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is part of the Ig Nobel Awards Ceremony, which recognize the most surprising and innovative scientific researches of the year.

Ig Nobel Prize for Medicine

Dr. Marisa Lopez-Teijon has been awarded the Ig Nobel Prize for Medicine, the first one in Obstetrics in the 27-year history of the award.

The Ig Nobel ceremony is held at Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, hosting prestigious scientists from around the world to present their studies to the public in a fun and enjoyable way.

At the ceremony, Dr. Marisa Lopez-Teijon explained: "Institut Marques is carrying out state-of-the-art research on how music impacts embryonic and fetal development.

We have improved in vitro fertilization by applying musical vibrations inside the incubators in all our fertility clinics.

By inserting a speaker in the vagina of thousands of patients for the first time we have been able to communicate with the fetus. To achieve this we have created the Babypod. This is an FDA approved vaginal speaker that connects to the mobile phone.

Thanks to the Babypod, we have discovered how fetal hearing works: fetuses can barely hear noise outside the womb. The fetal ability to hear starts when the fetus only measures 4 inches or 11cm. Until now medical literature could only confirm that fetuses heard from week 26 onwards. Fetuses responds just like babies, with speech and movements because they are learning to communicate. The myth of talking to your belly is over."

According to Institut Marques' studies, we can now communicate with the fetus and neurologically stimulate it. Any kind of sensory stimulation is good,-and the earlier the better.

Music stimulates language learning. And as we see, learning can begin in the womb.

The Ig Nobel Prize represents a recognition by these prestigious universities for the research of Institut Marques to improve assisted reproduction treatments.

Interesting links:

Music and fetal stimulation:

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/what-is-the-meaning-of-music/

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/the-story-of-a-discovery/

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/the-story-of-a-discovery-2-the-first-tests-continue/

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/the-story-of-a-discovery-3-the-scientific-research-starts/

http://institutomarques.com/en/scientific-area/response-fetus-vaginal-music-2/

http://www.institutomarques.com/pdf/ultrasound.pdf

Music and fertility:

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/music-enhances-in-vitro-fertilisation/

http://www.fertility-experiences.com/ivf-to-the-beat-of-the-music-we-have-made-our-embryos-dance/

Scientific studies:

http://institutomarques.com/en/scientific-area/

http://institutomarques.com/en/scientific-area/response-fetus-vaginal-music-2/

http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1742271X15609367?journalCode=ultb

Babypod:

https://babypod.net/en/

Concerts for fetus and embryos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQNTqFRp09Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQF5no3iLSg

Embriomobile:

http://institutomarques.com/en/observe-your-embryos-from-home/

More information: www.institutomarques.com and www.institutmarques.ie

Press contact United States:

[email protected]

Office: 617-520-7088

Mobile: 862-432-8436

Press contact Spain :

Institut Marques Barcelona +34 93 285 82 16

Mireia Folguera: [email protected] +34 649 90 14 94

Estefania Redondo: [email protected] +34 661 20 83 85

SOURCE Institut Marques

Related Links

http://www.institutomarques.com


"Each and every PRO Line product is designed with the industry professional in mind," said Alison Gutterman, Jelmar CEO and President. "These professionals rely on clean environments to do their jobs properly. Jelmar wants to make sure their cleaning tasks are one of the most easily and efficiently tackled jobs day in and day out with products like CLR PRO Heavy Duty Cleaner."

Industry professionals working around areas, such as commercial kitchens, manufacturing, pool decks and hospitality, can rely on CLR PRO Heavy Duty Cleaner's efficient, easy-to-use formula to tackle the tough jobs they face every day. It is also a water-based and biodegradable solution, meaning it will not harm areas surrounding grass, shrubs or vegetation.

Jelmar has been making cleaning products for generations. This year the company is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its iconic Tarn-X Tarnish Remover. Its PRO Line counterpart, Tarn-X PRO Tarnish Remover, was launched in 2011 alongside six other products, such as CLR PRO Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover. Today, 13 products fall into the PRO Line, several of which meet National Sanitary Foundation and/or Environmental Safety Association standards and approval.

Please visit Jelmar online at http://www.jelmar.com/proline/index.htm for more information.

About Jelmar, LLC

Jelmar is a leading manufacturer of a broad range of household cleaning products, including CLR and Tarn-X brands of cleaners. Flagship CLR products include CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover, CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner, CLR Mold & Mildew Stain Remover, CLR Stain Magnet and CLR Septic System Treatment. With their unique formulas, the CLR brand gets the cleaning job done in virtually every area of the home. For more information, visit http://www.jelmar.com. You can also follow us on social media at @CLRCleaners on Twitter and www.facebook.com/CLRCleaners on Facebook.

SALES INFORMATION: Scott Mueller at 1-800-323-5497.

Contact: Shannon Gibbs

Ogilvy PR

[email protected]

(303) 870 - 4388

SOURCE Jelmar, LLC

Related Links

http://www.jelmar.com


The new, instrumentally electrifying album features a power trio of legendary status; SATRIANI on guitar and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple/Black Country Communion) and drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) , the latter reuniting with SATRIANI for the first time since their work in the supergroup Chickenfoot . SATRIANI is once again joined by producer/engineer/mixer Mike Fraser, his frequent collaborator over the last 20 years, on What Happens Next . Fraser is well-known for recording/mixing every AC/DC album since 1990's The Razors Edge along with his classic works with SATRIANI going back to the release of Crystal Planet in 1998.

These new tracks literally vibrate the soul with an energy rarely found these days. From the dynamic opening track, "Energy", to the majestic crunch of "Thunder High On The Mountain", and the easy, sensual cords of "Smooth Soul". This unparalleled rock-rhythm section gives What Happens Next a depth of groove that sets it apart from SATRIANI's other work.

Since its debut in 1996, SATRIANI's G3 tour has featured the world's greatest guitarists (everyone from Steve Vai and Eric Johnson to Steve Lukather and Robert Fripp) and has become a consistent concert hall sell-out attraction in the U.S., South America, Europe, Australia and Japan. "I could say that I'm surprised at the durability of G3 and how much it's grown, but in a way I'm not," SATRIANI says with a laugh, "I think part of its charm and its mojo is in the chemistry of having three top guitarists share what they do on stage. It's fun, it's unpredictable, it's wild  it's everything you could want in a show."

In addition to this new album and exciting tour news, a new documentary "Beyond the Supernova" shot by SATRIANI's filmmaker son, ZZ, makes its debut at the Mill Valley Film Festival this October. The tour documentary chronicles Joe, along with his band and crew, on their last "Shockwave Supernova" tour throughout Europe and Asia.

Satriani's Strange Beautiful Music: A Musical Memoir first released in May 2014 will now be available in paperback. Pre-orders are available now with the official release on November 7, 2017. The paperback version includes a new chapter focusing on SATRIANI's last album, Shockwave Supernova. Read an excerpt from the new chapter HERE.

For two decades, the guitar virtuoso has traveled the world, playing to sold-out crowds as both a headliner and as founder of the all-star "G3" guitar extravaganza. SATRIANI's studio and live recordings have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide to date and of his many solo albums, two have gone platinum and four others went gold, with 15 Grammy nominations between them. His side project, Chickenfoot, featuring former Van Halen front man Sammy Hagar, former bassist Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Peppers' drummer Chad Smith saw their debut album certified gold and their second studio album debuted at #9.

"What Happens Next" Track Listing:

1  Energy 7 - Headrush 2  Catbot 8 - Looper 3 - Thunder High On The Mountain 9 - What Happens Next 4 - Cherry Blossoms 10 - Super Funky Badass 5  Righteous 11 - Invisible 6 - Smooth Soul 12 - Forever And Ever

2018 G3 Tour featuring Joe Satriani, John Petrucci & Phil Collen itinerary:

January 11 The Moore Theatre Seattle, WA January 12 Historic Elsinore Theatre Salem, OR January 13 Grand Sierra Theatre Reno, NV January 14 Fox Theater Oakland, CA January 16 Delta Hall at Eccles Theater Salt Lake City, UT * January 17 Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas, NV January 18 Mesa Arts Center Mesa, AZ * January 19 Orpheum Theatre Los Angeles, CA January 20 Balboa Theatre San Diego, CA January 21 Fox Tucson Theatre Tucson, AZ * January 24 Historic Paramount Theatre Denver, CO January 26 The Pavillion at The Toyota Music Factory Irving, TX * January 27 Austin City Limits - Moody Theater Austin, TX January 28 Hobby Center for the Performing Arts Houston, TX * January 30 Hard Rock Live Orlando, FL * January 31 Florida Theatre Jacksonville, FL * February 1 Pompano Beach Amphitheatre Pompano Beach, FL* February 2 Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall Fort Myers, FL * February 3 Mahaffey Theater St. Petersberg, FL * February 6 Raleigh Memorial Auditorium Raleigh, NC February 8 Toyota Presents Oakdale Wallingford, CT * February 9 Landmark Theatre Syracuse, NY * February 10 Palace Theatre Albany, NY * February 11 The Palace Theatre Greensburg, PA * February 14 Warner Theatre Washington, DC * February 15 Orpheum Theatre Boston, MA February 16 Beacon Theatre New York, NY * February 17 Merriam Theater Philadelphia, PA February 18 New Jersey Performing Arts Center Newark, NJ * February 20 Auditorium Theatre Rochester, NY * February 21 Massey Hall Toronto, ONT February 22 Hard Rock Live Northfield, OH February 23 Chicago Theatre Chicago, IL * February 24 State Theatre Minneapolis, MN February 25 Riverside Theater Milwaukee, WI

(All dates on sale September 22nd except * on-sale October 6)

More Dates TBA

To Follow Joe Satriani

www.satriani.com

Facebook: joesatriani

Twitter: @chickenfootjoe

Instagram: joesatriani

YouTube: JoeSatrianiOfficial

SOURCE Legacy Recordings

Related Links

http://www.legacyrecordings.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Brunswick Group, a global advisory firm specializing in critical issues and corporate relations, today announced that Jonathan Doorley has joined the firm as a Partner in its New York office. Jonathan will focus on supporting the firm's global clients on mergers and acquisitions, shareholder engagement, and other significant financial situations.

Jonathan brings with him a wealth of experience in special situations such as cross-border and domestic M&A transactions, shareholder activism, regulatory investigations, and complex litigation. He will help Brunswick's corporate clients navigate transactions in an increasingly complex landscape of financial, government and social stakeholders.

Susan Gilchrist, Group Chief Executive Officer, said: "Jonathan brings with him immense experience in critical financial situations  from M&A to shareholder activism  which will be of real value to our clients in the U.S. and around the world. We are thrilled to have him join our deep bench of financial situation experts."

On joining Brunswick, Jonathan said: "I am delighted to be joining Brunswick. The firm's global M&A offer is second to none and I am excited to be joining its team of experts supporting clients at business critical moments."

About Jonathan Doorley

Jonathan Doorley joins Brunswick after 11 years at Sard Verbinnen & Co, originally in New York and then as Partner and co-head of the London office.

Jonathan has vast experience on cross-border and domestic M&A transactions and has advised a global client base on managing overall positioning and specific business critical events which impact market value and reputation. In both London and New York, he developed and managed corporate positioning programs and thought leadership campaigns for a range of listed and private companies. He also advised major organizations on developing and executing domestic and multi-country media and investor relations programs.

Jonathan previously worked at Morgan Stanley in New York. He holds an M.B.A. from The University of North Carolina's Kenan-Flagler Business School and a B.A. in history from Wake Forest University.

About Brunswick Group

Brunswick Group LLP is an advisory firm specializing in critical issues and corporate relations. Founded in 1987, Brunswick is an organically grown, private partnership with 24 offices around the world. For more information, visit: www.brunswickgroup.com.

Contact

Paige Walker

Marketing Manager, Washington D.C.

[email protected]

(202)-393-7337

SOURCE Brunswick Group

Related Links

http://www.brunswickgroup.com


BEDFORD, Mass., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaleido Biosciences, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel chemistries to unlock the power of the human microbiome, announced today the appointment of biopharmaceutical veteran Mike Bonney as chief executive officer and board chair of Kaleido. The Company also announced the completion of an additional capital raise, for a total of $65 million in funds raised to date. The funding will be used to further advance discovery and testing of Kaleido's novel chemistries for use in unlocking the microbiome to treat disease and enhance health.

"After two and a half years of research and development since its founding by Flagship Pioneering in 2015, Kaleido is poised to launch at least four human studies later this fall," said Noubar Afeyan, senior managing partner & CEO, Flagship Pioneering. "We are thrilled to have Mike's experience and track record of building extraordinary companies and successfully commercializing therapies on board at this exciting time in our corporate lifecycle."

There is a growing body of evidence that the microbiome  trillions of microbes that live on and in our bodies  serves many functions that are essential to health. In many ways the microbiome operates as another human organ, metabolizing nutrients and interacting with other parts of the body through biochemical signals. While many chemistries in medicine today do harm to the microbiome, Kaleido aims to develop interventions that can enhance and protect these functions, targeting specific disease processes and improving general health.

Kaleido has created the first R&D platform for the development and clinical testing of novel chemistries that target the microbiome. This approach, combined with the safety profile of its product candidates, enables a very rapid discovery and development timeline. Since its founding in 2015, Kaleido has generated more than 3,000 days of human data; advanced three lead products into FIM studies; demonstrated preclinical efficacy in an additional five indication areas and is on track to surpass 20 clinical studies in the next 18 months.

"I truly believe Kaleido  with its deep scientific understanding, R&D engine and pipeline  has the potential to transform the way we treat and prevent disease," said Bonney. "The microbiome is an enormous untapped frontier of medicine, and I am confident that Kaleido will lead the way in advancing new products in this area, both therapeutics and scientifically validated consumer products."

Mike Bonney joins the Kaleido team from Cubist Pharmaceuticals, where he served as CEO and director and led it to become the world's leading antibiotic company, which was acquired by Merck for $9.5 billion in 2015. At Cubist, Bonney oversaw the development and release of the antibiotic Cubicin  the most successful launch of an antibiotic in American history. Bonney currently serves as chair of the board of Alnylam, where he has helped guide the company as it prepares to launch its first commercial product. He also serves as a board member of CELGENE and the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, among others. He has received many accolades for his strength as a leader and entrepreneur, including nomination as one of the top six CEOs in the country by MarketWatch and as the Top CEO in Massachusetts by the The Boston Globe.

At Kaleido, Bonney is joined by a world-class management team, including Geoffrey von Maltzahn, co-founder and president of Kaleido and partner at Flagship Pioneering; Jared Silverman, senior vice president of research; Ruth Thieroff-Ekerdt, chief medical officer; Jeffery Moore, senior vice president of finance & operations; Jeremy Buzzard, senior vice president, corporate; Michele Fite, president, food and nutrition division; and Rob Miller, chief scientific officer, food and nutrition division.

As Board Chair at Kaleido, Bonney is joined by: Noubar Afeyan, CEO of Flagship Pioneering and co-founder of Kaleido; Geoffrey von Maltzahn, co-founder and president of Kaleido and partner at Flagship Pioneering; Brian Baynes, founding board member of Kaleido and venture partner at Flagship Pioneering; Anthony Quinn, former head of R&D at Synageva; Ronald Kahn, former president of the Joslin Diabetes Center and winner of the Wolf Prize in Medicine; Peter Barton Hutt, former chief counsel to the FDA; Robert Connelly, CEO of Axcella Health; and Jonathan McIntyre, senior vice president, PepsiCo Research & Development.

The additional fundraising round was led by Kaleido's founding and principal investor, Flagship Pioneering, and included participation from a number of institutional and individual healthcare investors, including Bonney.

About Kaleido Biosciences

Kaleido Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company engaged in the development of novel chemistries that unlock the power of the microbiome to revolutionize health. The Company has built the first R&D engine to systematically create, discover, and develop interventions that activate metabolic processes in the microbiome to treat disease and maintain health. Since its founding in 2015 by Flagship VentureLabs, Kaleido has advanced candidate products into clinical studies across programs in rare genetic diseases, oncology and infectious disease, and has generated more than 3,000 days of human clinical data. The Company is also creating consumer products that optimize the microbiome's natural roles in promoting health.

To learn more about Kaleido, its pipeline and its management team, please visit: http://www.kaleido.com/

Primary Contact:

Katie Dodge

[email protected]

617-520-7068

SOURCE Kaleido Biosciences

Related Links

http://www.kaleido.com


ST. LOUIS, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- KnowledgeLake, an innovator of document processing solutions, will exhibit during the sold-out Microsoft Ignite Conference Sept. 24-29 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The company will debut a powerful, new content capture offering and showcase its other Microsoft-centric solutions to more than 20,000 IT implementers, developers, data professionals and decision makers at the event.

"As companies embrace digital transformation, we know Microsoft Ignite attendees are looking at strategies that leverage the cloud to revolutionize the way they conduct business," said KnowledgeLake's CEO, Bernie Schweiss. "As a long-standing Microsoft partner and Silver Sponsor of the conference, KnowledgeLake is dedicated to meeting the evolving document processing needs of Microsoft customers  whether that's on-premises, in the cloud or through a hybrid scenario."

Throughout the conference, KnowledgeLake content management experts will be in booth #406 to discuss how organizations are transforming business operations with the company's powerful, browser-based document capture platform to import, process and route content to multiple destinations including SharePoint on-premises and SharePoint Online.

Attendees interested in discussing unique document processing challenges and learning more about KnowledgeLake's document processing solutions and consulting expertise can reserve a time with an expert.

KnowledgeLake will also co-sponsor Metalogix's afterhours conference event, MetaFest, from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at Mango's Tropical Cafe. The free event will include food, drinks, live music and giveaways. Ignite attendees can register for MetaFest at the KnowledgeLake booth #406.

Microsoft Ignite is designed for IT professionals who are eager to explore tomorrow's technology and listen to industry leaders discuss trends and insights for the future. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will be the keynote speaker and discuss the latest strategies and offerings within the Microsoft ecosystem.

About KnowledgeLake

KnowledgeLake is dedicated to helping people work smarter by offering innovative solutions that capture, organize and manage business content. KnowledgeLake's team of industry experts offer consulting and solutions that amplify productivity, eliminate paper, streamline document processing and automate business-critical operations. Our browser-based document processing platform imports, processes, and routes high volumes of content to multiple lines-of-business systems and repositories. Established in 1999, KnowledgeLake is a stable, global software company with over 2 million licensed users in 35 countries, and is equity funded by PFU Limited, a Fujitsu company. Learn more at www.KnowledgeLake.com.

Contact:

Lisa Bertrand Marketing Manager, Content

[email protected]

(314) 898-0502

SOURCE KnowledgeLake, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.KnowledgeLake.com


BERKELEY, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Professor of Marketing and entrepreneur Scott Galloway has made a $4.4 million gift to UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business to fund scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate business students.

His giftthe second-largest ever from an MBA alumwill create the Galloway Fellows Fund, aimed at assisting generations of high-achieving business students at Berkeley-Haas who come from immigrant families.

Galloway, MBA 92, said, "As the son of a single immigrant mother, the big hand of government lifted me up. I want to ensure the hand remains extended for the next generation of aspiring business leaders who come from immigrant families."

"I was a remarkably unremarkable kid," he said. "Cal made what probably seemed, at the time, like an irrational bet on me. It changed my life."

The gift was made possible through the sale of one of Galloway's companies. In 2009, Galloway founded L2, Inc., to benchmark brands' digital competence. Earlier this year, after L2 was sold to technology research firm Gartner, Galloway fulfilled his Founder's Pledge, a nonbinding commitment by UC Berkeley entrepreneurs to give back to Berkeley when they attain success. To date, some 265 founders have signed.

Dean Rich Lyons said that Galloway's gift will be life changing for many students. "Scott's gift is an outstanding display of generosity that comes at a particularly difficult time for so many immigrant families," Lyons said. "Scott understands personally what a public university education can do to change the course of students' livesand inspire them, in turn, to pay it forward to others."

Scott is currently a professor of marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business and Chairman of L2. He co-founded Prophet Brand Strategy with classmate Ian Chaplin, MBA 92, and helped pioneer the rise of e-commerce when he co-founded Red Envelope, an online specialty gift retailer, in 1997.

"This is a tip of the hat to the generosity and vision of California taxpayers and the UC Regents, respectively," Galloway said. "I also hope this sends a signal to current and future immigrants that most Americans remember where we came from, and welcome them to the land of opportunity." Professor Galloway has also announced gifts to UCLA and NYU.

Media Contacts: North 6th Agency, Inc. (for Scott Galloway)

212-334-9753, [email protected]

Kim Girard (for UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business)

510-643-0259, [email protected]

SOURCE L2, Inc.
CHICAGO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- LotLinx, the leading VIN specific digital marketing solution for car dealers, today announced that John Gottschalk has been named Senior Vice President, Client Relationships of LotLinx. Gottschalk was previously SVP of Dealer Relations & Business Development at FordDirect, a turnkey digital marketing solution for Ford Motor Company and joint venture between Ford and its franchised dealers. Gottschalk has been brought on to help manage and develop impactful communications with dealers and create new enterprise strategies and solutions for LotLinx.

John Gottschalk

An expert in client engagement with nearly 20 years experience in automotive retail and digital marketing, Gottschalk was key to expanding FordDirect's online initiatives. During his tenure, he oversaw a variety of digital marketing services and helped create a comprehensive web presence for dealers to digitally update their existing practices. At FordDirect John was a strategic leader and member of the Executive Leadership Team focused on building sustainable growth across the enterprise, including Ford & Lincoln Dealers, Strategic Vendors and Ford Motor Company partners within all areas of the digital marketing ecosystem. Prior to FordDirect, he spent several years at the family-run McCrackin Ford dealership in Pittsburgh PA, where he led the dealership to be consistently in the Top 20 dealers within the Pittsburgh region.

The newly created position taps into Gottschalk's deep understanding of how car dealers operate and conduct business in today's increasingly digital world. His hiring and expertise will complement the LotLinx suite of technology products, which is built on VIN-specific, Omni-Channel campaigns that identify specific shoppers based on previous search habits and buying behavior, and has been the core of many successful dealers' marketing plans.

"John has a deep understanding of the industry, and a strong track record of delivering innovative solutions which accelerate inventory turn," said Eric Brown, President of Lotlinx. "John has worked directly with the country's top dealers, manufacturers, agencies, vendors and is highly respected by all. We're excited to add someone of his caliber to the team."

LotLinx continues to add seasoned marketing experts to the team following the recent hire of Mark Conner, formerly of Lithia Motor Group. In addition, LotLinx recently expanded the capabilities of its VIN-specific shopper targeting TURN platform. VINdrop, a new solution that helps dealers boost end-of-month performance and revenue goals, enhances TURN's ability to maximize consumer engagement and ROI for dealers. LotLinx will be demonstrating its automotive AI technology at Digital Dealer conference in Las Vegas September 18-20. For more visit www.lotlinx.com.

About LotLinx:

LotLinx is an award-winning automotive AI company dedicated to empowering automotive dealers and the agencies that work with them, up to the OEM level. The LotLinx TURN platform can transform dealer results, dramatically increasing online engagement and net-new shoppers while eliminating digital advertising waste. Founded in 2012 and based in Chicago, LotLinx works with thousands of dealers around the country to reach over 63 million unique car shoppers per month across more than 500 digital properties.

Press Contact:

Kevin Blomberg

Clarity PR for LotLinx

[email protected]

617-869-1413

SOURCE LotLinx

Related Links

http://www.lotlinx.com


RENO, Nevada, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Magellan Gold Corporation (OTCQB: MAGE) ("Magellan" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael P. Martinez as CFO and Secretary of the Company, effective immediately. To facilitate this change, John C. Power recently stepped down as CFO and Secretary. The Company wishes to thank Mr. Power for his service as an officer since Magellan's inception. Mr. Power will continue in his role as a director of the Company.

John Power stated, "We are delighted to welcome Michael to the Company. A CFO of his high caliber will be needed to meet the growing demands of our business strategy."

Michael P. Martinez brings twenty-five years of proven financial management and accounting experience, including twenty years in executive management positions with high-growth companies. He has held roles in both public and private sectors in directing financial reporting, accounting, human resources, treasury functions and capital formation.

Mr. Martinez's expertise includes strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, and contract negotiation. He has an excellent understanding of SEC compliance reporting for publicly traded companies. Early in his career Mr. Martinez worked as a senior accountant for a top-four international public accounting firm.

Michael P. Martinez holds a B.S. Degree in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, is a Certified Public Accountant and is a member of the New Mexico Society of CPAs.

About Magellan Gold Corporation

Magellan Gold Corporation (OTCQB: MAGE) is a US public enterprise focused on the exploration and development of precious metals. The Company has obtained an option to acquire the SDA flotation plant in the State of Nayarit, Mexico, and controls two precious metals exploration properties located in Arizona and in Peru.

The 100% owned Silver District Property in southwest Arizona comprises over 2,000 acres covering the heart of the historic Silver District. The property contains a near-surface historical drilled resource of 16 million ounces of silver and exhibits exploration promise for significant expansion. The Ninobamba Silver-Gold Property in central Peru, on which the Company has the right to earn a 50% interest, covers 9,027 acres and demonstrates potential for a large, bulk tonnage, silver-gold deposit.

To learn more about Magellan Gold Corporation, visit http://www.magellangoldcorp.com.

Cautionary Statement

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission permits mining companies, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only those mineral deposits that a company can legally extract or produce. Under SEC Industry Guide 7 standards, a "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to report reserves. Currently we have not delineated "reserves" on any of our properties. We cannot be certain that any deposits at our properties will ever be confirmed or converted into SEC Industry Guide 7 compliant "reserves." Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of any "resource" estimates will ever be confirmed or converted into reserves or that they can be economically or legally extracted.

Forward Looking Statements

This release contains "forward-looking statements." Such statements are based on good faith assumptions that Magellan Gold Corporation believes are reasonable but which are subject to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those anticipated are discussed in Magellan Gold Corporation's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contacts:

Magellan Gold Corporation

Pierce Carson: +1(505)-463-9223

John Power: +1(707)-884-3766

Peter Nesveda (INT IR): +61-4-1235-7375



SOURCE Magellan Gold Corporation
Today, the European Head and Neck Society (EHNS) is pleased to announce the start of the Make Sense campaign's 5th annual head and neck cancer awareness week. Activities around Europe will aim to increase awareness of head and neck cancer, instil the importance of early diagnosis and address unmet needs in cancer survivors.

(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/556936/EHNS_Logo.jpg )



(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/556937/Make_Sense_Campaign_Logo.jpg )



Head and neck cancers can be debilitating and their aggressive nature can affect up to eight areas of the head and neck. It's the 7th most common type of cancer in Europe with more than 150,000 new patients diagnosed every year. Men are two to three times more likely to develop head and neck cancer, although the incidence in women is increasing. Being able to identify early signs and symptoms is crucial to survival, as 80 - 90% of head and neck cancer patients diagnosed and treated in the early stages survive. Awareness among the public remains poor despite a marked increase in those surviving following early treatment; however, overall patient outcomes have not yet improved accordingly and more efforts are needed.

"Head and neck cancer is a complex disease, and through the Make Sense campaign we unify and stimulate the head and neck community in Europe to continuously work towards better outcomes for patients," said Professor Rene Leemans, President of the EHNS and Professor and Chief of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam. "We recognise that newer additions to the treatment landscape offer great hope, although, we must be mindful that supporting patients who survive this aggressive cancer requires an equally determined, long-term, multidisciplinary approach."

Activities are taking place this week across Europe and focus on providing credible, up-to-date information on head and neck cancer to help ensure optimal diagnosis, treatment and survival care.

To find out more information about activities taking place, please visit: http://www.makesensecampaign.eu and click on the interactive map of events.

Campaign Achievements

The Campaign is proud to celebrate its 5th year in Europe. Teams across the continent work tirelessly to heighten awareness, provide relevant, timely information and materials to those who are in most need, and this is done through various localised activities.

"We are so proud of what the Campaign has achieved these past four years, which includes screening over 35,000 people in 592 clinics open to the public across Europe, and holding three, strategic meetings with European Parliament, among many others", said Dr Sat Parmar, Consultant, Maxillofacial/Head and Neck, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom. "Our partnerships across Europe are truly the bedrock to our success; it's inspiring to see everyone motivated and excited. We couldn't reach so many people without them. We are all set for the 5th year to be the biggest and best year."

About the Make Sense Campaign

The Make Sense campaign, run by the European Head and Neck Society (EHNS), aims to raise awareness of head and neck cancer and ultimately improve outcomes for patients with the disease. It will do this through:

Education on disease prevention

Driving understanding of the signs and symptoms of the disease

Encouraging earlier presentation, diagnosis and referral

This year's activities include a European Parliamentary event, a session at the 4th Congress of European ORL-HNS and a Summit to bring together stakeholders to discuss the state of head and neck cancer in Europe. To find out more about our events and activities, please visit: http://www.makesensecampaign.eu .

The Make Sense campaign is supported by Merck, Boehringer Ingelheim, Norgine and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

About the EHNS

The European Head and Neck Society (EHNS) is an international non-profit association based in Belgium. The EHNS is composed of individuals, national and multinational societies, and associated study groups oriented towards head and neck cancer research, training and treatment throughout Europe. Individuals from the rest of the world are also welcome to apply for membership. The intent of the EHNS is to promote exchange of knowledge in all aspects of head and neck neoplastic diseases and to promote the highest standards of research, education and training, disease prevention and patient care. For more information on the society, please visit: http://www.ehns.org.

About Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer is a way of describing any cancer that is found in the head or neck region, including the inside of the mouth and tongue ('oral cavity'), the throat ('pharynx') and the voice box ('larynx') and excluding the eyes, brain, ears or oesophagus. This type of cancer usually begins in the squamous cells that line the moist, mucosal surfaces inside the head and neck: for example inside the mouth, nose and throat.

Contacts:

Edward Brightman,

+44(0)20-3595-2430,

[email protected]

Karley Ura,

+44(0)20-3595-2415,

[email protected]



SOURCE European Head and Neck Society
The globally-recognized company, with millions of Independent Beauty Consultants around the world, made an initial investment of $9 million USD in the Peruvian subsidiary. It is based in Lima, covering operations for the entire country. The company enters its newest market, following its recent and successful launch in neighboring Colombia in 2015.

"We are proud to further expand our operations in Latin America with the opening of Mary Kay Peru," says David Holl, President and Chief Executive Officer for Mary Kay Inc. "As the demand for high quality products increases and the entrepreneurial spirit strengthens with the country's economic growth, we anticipate a successful launch in Peru."

The concept of direct selling is more attractive than ever, and has been growing in Peru for the past 40 years. In 2016, World Bank ranked Peru 50th (out of 189 countries) for ease of doing business. Direct foreign investment in the country totaled $7.7 billion USD in 2015.

About Mary Kay

At Mary Kay, success lies in our dedication to irresistible products, a rewarding opportunity and positive community impact. For 54 years, Mary Kay has inspired women to achieve their entrepreneurial goals in nearly 40 countries. As a multibillion-dollar company, we offer the latest in cutting-edge skin care, bold color cosmetics and fragrances. Discover more reasons to love Mary Kay at marykay.com.

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications

marykay.com/newsroom

972.687.5332 or [email protected]

SOURCE Mary Kay

Related Links

https://www.marykay.com/


Last week, Dr. Manoel Galvao Neto and Dr. Eduardo Grecco, hosted Stretta training and performed the first cases at Fundacao do ABC Hospital in Sao Paolo, welcoming physicians from all over Brazil to learn about Stretta. Dr. Neto noted the critical position of Stretta for their patients, "This is a proven solution for patients who have GERD symptoms despite medications and want to avoid surgery, Stretta is an ideal option between medications and surgery. Our team is excited about this innovative technology." Dr. Grecco added, "Stretta is also cost-effective compared to long-term PPI use or anti-reflux surgery. Being able to offer a procedure that is clinically effective, and has an economic advantage is important here in Brazil."

"We are very pleased with the excitement around Stretta in Brazil. Stretta is experiencing dramatic growth worldwide, this is driven by key benefits of safety and effectiveness, as well as the versatility and lower cost of Stretta compared to other GERD treatments," stated Mederi CEO Bob Knarr. "Stretta is a unique technology that reduces symptoms of GERD by thickening the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, improving the barrier to reflux. We look forward to great success in Brazil, where we have an excellent distribution partner, Endoaccess," Knarr added.

Thiago Regis, principal of Endoaccess, agrees. "Stretta is positioned to help many kinds of chronic GERD patients, including those who have incomplete relief from medications or have recurring GERD after bariatric or anti-reflux surgery. It is especially important for the patient with GERD after bariatric surgery. In this patient, Stretta offers an important option because it is non-surgical, delivered endoscopically, and does not alter the anatomy or require an implant. Surgeons and Gastroenterologists throughout Brazil are eager to offer Stretta to their patients."

GERD and Obesity in Brazil

According to a 2014 study, roughly 20 percent of Brazilians suffer from chronic GERD, with symptoms consisting of heartburn, regurgitation, and even chronic cough. Obesity is on the rise in Brazil. Estimates predict more than half of the population of Latin America will be overweight or obese by 2030. Studies show that obese patients have a much higher incidence of GERD than the general population. Bariatric surgery is also on the rise in Brazil, with about 86,000 procedures per year being performed in 2013 vs. 4,000 in 2003. Many bariatric patients, particularly those who have undergone a sleeve gastrectomy, report chronic GERD symptoms following surgery, despite weight loss.

ABOUT MEDERI AND STRETTA

Mederi manufactures innovative medical devices that use non-ablative radiofrequency (RF) energy to treat digestive diseases. Stretta is an endoscopic, non-surgical solution for GERD that has been proven safe and effective in more than 40 studies, and is available worldwide.

For more information go to: www.stretta-therapy.com.

Contact: Sheila Doyle

(203) 930-9980

[email protected]

SOURCE Mederi Therapeutics Inc.

Related Links

http://www.mederitherapeutics.com


SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 18, 2017 /PR Newswire/ - Huntkey, a global power solution's provider, will present at 2017 Global Sources Electronics Hong Kong Fair, from October 11th to 14th, at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong. Huntkey's booth # is 8A02.

Global Sources Electronics Hong Kong Fair is one of the world's largest electronics sourcing shows, attracting millions buyers from more than 140 countries who are looking for new products, new technology and new ideas every year. Huntkey has presented at the fair many times and has launched new products every year. This time, Huntkey will also show several new products, including two models of the highly anticipated magic cubic outlet series. The one with AC wire is equipped with four AC sockets and three USB ports that share 3.1amps, allowing users to charge six devices at the same time. The other model with a plug has five AC sockets, that means five devices can be charged on one magic cube.

Another new product to debut is a wireless charger. As it announced at the Apple event, the iPhone 8 can be charged without cables. Wireless charging will be widely used on smart phones, and there is an increasing need for wireless chargers in the market.

Invitation: http://en.huntkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/invitation.gif

Magic Cubic Outlet: http://en.huntkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Mr.Magic_.jpg

Wireless Charger: http://en.huntkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/wireless-charger.jpg

To experience more excellent products, please visit the Huntkey booth.

Date: October 11-14, 2017

Booth Number: 8A02

Location: AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong

About Huntkey

Huntkey Enterprise Group, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Shenzhen, is a member of The International Power Supply Manufacturer's Association (PSMA) and a member of The China Power Supply Society (CPSS). With branch companies in the USA, Japan and other areas, and cooperating factories in Brazil, Argentina, India and other countries, Huntkey has specialized in the development, design, and manufacturing of PC power supplies, industrial power supplies, surge protectors, adapters and chargers for many years. With its own technologies and manufacturing strength, Huntkey has served Lenovo, Huawei, Haier, DELL, ZTE, Bestbuy and many other large enterprises for years, and has received unanimous recognition and trust from most of the customers.

For more information about Huntkey, please visit en.huntkey.com/

Contact:

Ferris Liao

+86-755-8960-6658

[email protected]

SOURCE Huntkey Enterprise Group

Related Links

http://en.huntkey.com/


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- In order to prepare small businesses in California to compete for nearly $3 billion in government contracts, the California Contracting/Acquisition/Procurement (CCAP) Small Business Expo and Military Industry Days will provide attendees a deep dive into the contracting process and will offer opportunities to ask questions and personally interact with those involved in the contracting process. The event will be held at the Kerr McGee Center in Ridgecrest, California on November 1-2, 2017.

Speakers included leadership from U.S. Navy's Naval Air Warfare Weapons Division (NAWCWD)

The highlight of the event is the U.S. Navy's Long Range Acquisition Forecast (LRAF) for 2018 presented by the U.S. Navy's Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) operating out of China Lake, California. NAWCWD participation includes a networking session with many of the departments involved in sharing information on contracting opportunities with small businesses and prime contractors.

Saalex Solutions, Inc., an engineering and information technology company based in Camarillo, CA, is supporting CCAP and has signed on as the event's presenting sponsor. CEO Travis Mack, President and CEO, said, "The CCAP Expo is extremely important for small businesses to participate. It provides an avenue of exposure for small businesses to introduce themselves to the customer and meet with the decision-makers. There is also a good networking component where large businesses doing business in the area meet with small business owners. And most importantly, it's just an amazing time!"

The event is a two-day event, with high profile speakers, including NAWCWD Rear Admiral Commander Brian Corey and NAWCWD Executive Director Joan Johnson. The event is produced by the Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau. For registration and information, visit www.ccapexpo.com.



About the CCAP Expo

The CCAP Expo will have more than 500 California small business owners, government contract specialists, state, federal and regional agencies to support small businesses compete by providing on-site support, education sessions and one-on-one face time with decision makers in the contracting process.

Contact: Brandon Johnston

Telephone: 760-375-8202

E-mail: [email protected]

Event website: www.ccapexpo.com

SOURCE CCAP
PITTSFIELD, Mass., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A Community Town Hall on Tuesday night will feature registered nurses from Berkshire Medical Center sharing their concerns about patient safety at the hospital and community members discussing their experiences at BMC.

What: A Community Town Hall, sponsored by the Berkshire Brigades, Berkshire Central Labor Council, Indivisible Pittsfield and Massachusetts Jobs with Justice.

When: Tuesday, Sept. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Where: First Methodist Church at 55 Fenn St. in Pittsfield.

"Community members have a right to hear directly from nurses about what is happening inside their hospital," said RN Alex Neary, Co-Chair of the BMC MNA Bargaining Committee. "This event will give everyone in our community a chance to share their own experience and discuss how we can improve the quality of patient care at BMC."

"We believe an open and honest public discussion about patient safety at BMC is necessary to move forward in a positive way," said Brian P. Morrison, President of the Berkshire Central Labor Council. "Berkshire Medical Center was built and paid for by the community and with our tax dollars. The public supports BMC nurses and we urge the hospital to listen to their concerns."

Nurses have brought their patient safety concerns forward to hospital management in various ways for years, including directly to supervisors, at labor-management meetings and during ongoing negotiations.

BMC RNs have also been documenting this problem using unsafe staffing forms. Between October 1, 2015 and August 21, 2017, nurses completed more than 430 unsafe staffing reports. The reports tell the story time and again: Hospital units short multiple nurses and/or other staff members, patients waiting for hours in the emergency department, patient falls, and critically ill infants with too few nurses to care for them. Hundreds of other incidents have gone undocumented as nurses are typically too busy caring for too many patients to write a report.

Background on Bargaining

BMC nurses are seeking a fair contract that first and foremost protects the quality of patient care. Another key issue is quality and affordable health insurance. BMC has proposed raising by 100 percent how much nurses contribute to individual health insurance premiums. Nurses in BMC's family health insurance plans already pay 40 to 70 percent more than managers.

Negotiations began in September 2016 and include a federal mediator. More than 25 bargaining sessions have been held. On May 31, nurses rejected the hospital's "best and final" contract offer by 82 percent. In July, nurses voted 83 percent to authorize a potential one-day strike. The 16-member RN Bargaining Committee has the authority to call for a one-day strike and issue the 10-day strike notice required under federal law.

BMC nurses have also filed three unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board against Berkshire Health, including threatening to retaliate against nurses if they engage in protected activity and refusing to provide health insurance data necessary for bargaining.

The next negotiation date has been scheduled for September 27.

MassNurses.org  Facebook.com/MassNurses  Twitter.com/MassNurses  Instagram.com/MassNurses

Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 23,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.

SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association

Related Links

http://www.massnurses.org


WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC), the industry association for diverse-owned and emerging investment managers, will share its message promoting access to capital for diverse investment managers with attendees of the Ai CEO Institutional Investment Summit & Awards 2017 in New York City September 18-19.

Robert L. Greene, President & CEO of the NAIC, will serve as a panelist for the summit's Annual Roundtable on North American Pension Funds and Endowments Investing in Africa. Titled "Catalyzing US and African Institutional Allocations to Emerging Managers," this is the premier dialogue and networking forum for leaders from US- and Africa-based emerging managers and asset owners. "The Ai conference is an outstanding opportunity to extend NAIC's message regarding the enormous talent and opportunity resident in diverse and emerging managers," says Greene.

For more than four decades, the NAIC has championed the cause for greater diversity among public, private pension plan and endowment managers. While a significant portion of these institutional investment funds are contributed to by persons of color, they are rarely managed by diverse investment professionals  despite published data detailing their superior performance. "Diverse-owned firms continue to demonstrate that no one group has a monopoly on talent," Greene explains. "Talent is widely dispersed and presents a significant opportunity for outperformance in emerging markets like Africa."

About the Summit: The invitation-only Ai CEO Institutional Investment Summit & Index Series Awards (http://aicapitalmarketsummit.com) attracts over 200 participants, facilitating meetings and presentations between African blue-chip companies, pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and professional emerging market investors.

About the NAIC: The National Association of Investment Companies (www.naicpe.com) was founded in 1971 to serve as the industry association for diverse-owned and emerging managers, a number of which rank among the best performing private equity firms and hedge funds in the United States. With more than 40 member firms representing over $85 billion in assets managed, the NAIC is a recognized thought leader on the U.S. Emerging Domestic Market (EDM).

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Simmons: [email protected].

SOURCE National Association of Investment Companies

Related Links

http://www.naicpe.com


ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Cancer Society (ACS) today unveiled a new integrated campaign that demonstrates how ACS differs from all other causes  it is the only nonprofit that attacks cancer from every angle. As part of a rigorous brand positioning effort, the insight-driven campaign, created with The Richards Group of Dallas, will come to life with a series of :30 commercials, print ads, prominent radio partnerships, and a range of digital video, audio and display executions.

"For years, the American Cancer Society has worked to inform the world of everything we do to lead the fight for a world without cancer, but this strategy puts it all in perspective," said Irma Shrivastava, Senior Vice President, Strategic Marketing & Alliances, American Cancer Society. "People feel that cancer hits them from all sides, and only ACS is fighting cancer on every front. We launch breakthrough research; create empowering resources for people to outsmart cancer; enable local communities to support those affected; and convene powerful activists to create awareness and impact."

The first two television spots, titled "Years" and "Used To," feature actors who had personal experiences with the disease. One is a cancer patient and the other is a survivor. Each spot references the many benefits ACS provides, including research, rides to treatments, insurance advice and free lodging near treatment centers for patients and their caregivers. The spots end with a fresh tagline  Attacking from every angle. The brand strategy will also be applied to support marquee community development initiatives, such as Relay For Life or Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

"The strategy that grew out of our research served as the foundation for this relatable campaign," said Trent Walters, Brand Management/Principal for The Richards Group. "Once people understood ACS' comprehensive attack on cancer  from research all the way to boots-on-the-ground support in the community  ACS became more relatable and people wanted to get involved. We needed to communicate the various angles of attack and how patients benefit from them in a simple way."

Visitors can learn more about the campaign at cancer.org/ourstory.

About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2 million volunteers saving lives in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society's efforts have contributed to a 25 percent decline in the cancer death rate in the U.S. since 1991, driven by less smoking, better treatments, and earlier detection. We're finding cures as the nation's largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at (800) 227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

About The Richards Group

The Richards Group, located in Dallas, is the largest independent brand-building shop in the nation. Clients include the brands of Cardinal Health, Dr Pepper Snapple Group, GameStop, The Home Depot, Motel 6, Orkin, Ram Trucks, The Salvation Army, Sub-Zero, Wolf and many others. Total billings for the agency were $1.41 billion in 2016. The Richards Group can be found at richards.com or on Twitter, @RichardsGroup.

SOURCE American Cancer Society

Related Links

http://www.cancer.org


WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ANALYTICS EXPERIENCE -- Analytics leader SAS is already helping customers like Cox Automotive Media Group, GE Transportation, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Numeris and Sprint, gain more value from data with the SAS Platform and its SAS Viya capabilities. The newest advances to the SAS Platform, such as embedded artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, will further address the needs of organizations that are making analytics core to their business.

According to the 2016 IDG Enterprise Data and Analytics Survey, "finding correlations across multiple disparate data sources" is the top challenge organizations hope to solve through data-driven initiatives. With SAS, data scientists, analysts, developers, IT, domain experts and executives can generate data-driven insights, fostering greater collaboration and driving innovations into production faster. SAS Viya further modernizes the platform with new capabilities such as image recognition, deep learning and natural language understanding.

Cox Automotive organizes a team around agile analytics

Cox Automotive Media Group, the company behind Autotrader, Dealer.com and Kelley Blue Book, is a leading provider of automotive products and services. By enhancing its existing SAS investment with SAS Viya, Cox Automotive can empower its employees to help achieve the full potential of analytics.

"As we align our technology and enterprise analytics globally, we need a platform that allows our analytically diverse team of data scientists to work together seamlessly," said Shawn Hushman, Vice President of Decision Sciences and Valuations at Cox Automotive Media Group. "The enhancements that SAS Viya delivers to the SAS Platform allow us to pick and choose the right tool for the right problem and not be bound by one programming language or environment. Whether a team member feels most comfortable coding in SAS. R or Python, there is now a point of integration that stitches all the model interfaces together. Plus, we are able to extend the possibilities of our current SAS environment."

Numeris empowers more users to access more data

Numeris is Canada's most trusted and authoritative source for broadcast measurement and consumer behavior data, as well as the industry-leading intelligence provider to broadcasters, advertisers and agencies. All of Numeris' sample data comes from phone calls, and fewer participants are answering their phones. So it takes more and more effort to reach the 180,000 respondents required in the diary markets and to maintain the 11,000-person electronic measurement panel needed to produce audio- and video-audience estimates. Numeris has turned to SAS Viya products to help the company evaluate all its data across departmental silos.

"Ten years ago, 90 to 92 percent of households would pick up the phone to answer audience surveys and today we're down to sometimes as low as 65 percent," said Derrick Gray, Director of Audience Measurement Science at Numeris. "To get to our ideal sample number we have to dial around 2 million households annually. With SAS Viya we will be able to shift to a centralized business intelligence tool, SAS Visual Analytics, so users from across departments can collaborate. More people will have access to common, consistent data, allowing Numeris to quickly see patterns and explore insights so we can more easily maintain our existing list of households, dial fewer numbers and improve participation outcomes."

The SAS Platform encompasses the entire analytics life cycle

The SAS Platform, which includes SAS Viya products, helps users quickly create value from data by seamlessly transitioning through the stages of the analytics lifecycle  from data to discovery to deployment. SAS is the sole leader in The Forrester Wave: Enterprise Insight Platform Suites, Q4 2016. The Forrester report states:

"SAS offers a balance between strength of current offering and a platform strategy. SAS has best-in-class analytics coupled with a breadth of good data management for streaming, virtualization and master data management. It has made progress simplifying its tools, and its recently launched SAS Viya offers promises to go even further in modifying and simplifying its architecture."

New capabilities added to the SAS Platform are designed to adapt to expanding IT infrastructures for any size or speed of data, complexity of problem and deployment strategy. With one governed inventory for all analytical assets, coded in SAS or any other language, organizations can manage all analytics activity.

New enhancements coming to the SAS Platform for the remainder of 2017 include:

Embedded AI capabilities in the SAS Platform, starting with SAS Visual Data Mining and Machine Learning and SAS Visual Text Analytics. Building on a long history of machine learning, these SAS products leverage deep learning and natural language understanding to enhance the depth of insights derived from data.

Single interactive interface that spans a wide range of analytics tasks to help non-coders solve complex problems faster.

SAS Data Preparation for self-service, visual data wrangling, transforming, blending and cleansing data, with application-generated code fit for IT scheduling environments.

SAS Visual Text Analytics, a modern, flexible and end-to-end text analytics framework that combines text mining, contextual extraction and categorization, sentiment analysis, and search. It automates feature extraction and business-rule generation using modern machine learning approaches.

Cloud deployment through the SAS Cloud, Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and others, including SaasNow.

Today's announcement was made at the Analytics Experience conference in Washington, DC, a business technology conference presented by SAS that brings together more than 10,000 attendees on-site and online to share ideas on critical business issues.

About SAS

SAS is the leader in analytics. Through innovative analytics, business intelligence and data management software and services, SAS helps customers at more than 83,000 sites make better decisions faster. Since 1976, SAS has been giving customers around the world THE POWER TO KNOW.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries.  indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright  2017 SAS Institute Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE SAS

Related Links

http://www.sas.com


"Natural Products Expo East is an excellent event for us to share both our newest products as well as to connect with customers and like-minded companies on our mission-based programs. This year we saw a lot of interest in our new product launches and had great feedback on our recent efforts regarding mitigating climate change through our More Crop Per Drop growing practices," said Caryl Levine, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Lotus Foods.

Each fall, brands showcase new products at Expo East that will end up on store shelves heading into the new year. The content and research team at New Hope Network tracked 10 Trends this year including: 1) The Plant Revolution, 2) Wholegrarian Shopper, 3) Protein Redefined, 4) Inherently Functional, 5) Probiotics 2, 6) The Verified Brand, 7) Nutrition Customized, 8) Getting Crafty, 9) Snackification, and 10) Sugar Vilified. For detailed descriptions and examples of exciting new products that exemplify each trend, visit the online gallery at newhope.com.

"Each year our community gathers to share ground-breaking product innovations and learn about healthy trends. But, there is a larger force that brings us together around how we, collectively as an industry, can improve the health of our food system and planet," said Adam Andersen, Senior Vice President, Events at New Hope Network.

The conference featured a robust education program including a keynote presentation by Jonathan Safran Foer, author of Eating Animals and the international bestseller Everything is Illuminated.

The official "Best of East: Press Award" went to The Maple Guild for their organic Vermont maple syrup. Runners-up included 4th & Heart and The Soulfull Project. The winner of Natural Products Business School's Pitch Slam was Know Brainer. A full list of the winners of the 2017 NEXTY Awards, representing what tomorrow's healthy living landscape will look like, can be found online. This year, the NEXTY Gold Award was established to recognize two companies that innovate and inspire with this year's winners including REBBL and Lotus Foods.

Natural Products Expo West & Engredea will take place at the newly expanded Anaheim Convention Center March 7-11, 2018. New Hope Network will also host the third annual Esca Bona conference October 16-18, 2017 in Austin, TX. Esca Bona connects trend-setting entrepreneurs, game-changing technologists and visionary business leaders to work together to magnify the positive innovations happening in food. For more details visit EscaBona.com.

Follow @NatProdExpo and #ExpoEast on Twitter and Instagram, and visit us on Facebook for ongoing conversations.



About New Hope Network

New Hope Network is at the forefront of the healthy lifestyle products industry. With solutions for the complete supply chain from manufacturers, retailers/distributors, service providers and ingredient suppliers, the network offers a robust portfolio of content, events, data, research and consultative services. Through its mission of growing healthy markets to bring more health to more people, New Hope Network helps businesses identify the people, products, partnerships and trends that create better opportunities and connections. For more information visit www.newhope.com.

About Informa Exhibitions

New Hope Network is part of Informa's Global Exhibitions Division. With over 200 trade and consumer exhibitions annually, Informa Exhibitions is a global market leader in such end markets as Boating, Beauty, Construction & Real Estate, Life Sciences, Maritime, Health & Nutrition, Agriculture and Pop Culture. Through face to face and digital channels, its transaction-oriented exhibitions enable communities to engage, experience and do business. In doing so, Informa brings together people who want to buy and sell, network, do business and gain inspiration. Industry insight, coupled with an innovative and entrepreneurial approach, provides Informa Exhibitions customers and partners with the opportunity to create business advantage and access markets.

Informa Exhibitions is a division of Informa PLC, a leading business intelligence, academic publishing, knowledge and events business, creating unique content and connectivity for customers all over the world. Informa PLC is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a member of the FTSE 100.

Contact:

Carrie Kocik

New Hope Network

Public Relations

617-694-5971

[email protected]

SOURCE Natural Products Expo East; New Hope Network
DETROIT, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Gravity Software LLC; the developer of Gravity Software (Gravity) a robust mid-market accounting application written on the Dynamics 365 (aka Microsoft CRM) platform, today announced its partnership with NOESIS to provide consulting and implementation services to the company's clients. NOESIS, a Portuguese technology company and a Microsoft partner, helps drive operational efficiencies to growing businesses by taking full advantage of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 platform.

NOESIS joins Gravity Software partner program

"We are very excited to be partners with the team at NOESIS," said John Silvani, President & CEO of Gravity. "They bring an extensive skillset helping companies leverage technology to drive efficiencies in their business processes. Now they can offer a fully integrated Financial and CRM system on a single platform that makes knowledge transparent throughout an organization. We look forward to working with their team."

Gravity's robust accounting software provides companies of all sizes the distinct advantage of having their financials and CRM fully integrated on one platform. There's no need to manage two separate databases. By utilizing the Microsoft Dynamics 365 cloud based platform, Gravity makes it simple for businesses to operate from anywhere without all the startup costs associated with other accounting applications. Gravity operates on a platform that hosts over 40,000 companies worldwide and has become one of the most reliable and scalable platforms available today.

According to Nelson Pereira, CTO at NOESIS, "Partnering with Gravity was an excellent choice due to their strong ability to offer a reliable financial module that is easily integrated with Microsoft Dynamics 365. We will be able to offer our clients the opportunity of combining critical financial features with their CRM system, in an intuitive platform that is quick to implement. With Gravity's robust solution, we will increase our clients' ability to optimize their processes and, ultimately, we will create more value to their businesses. We also believe this partnership will allow us to leverage other solutions that will help us grow in the local and global market."

As businesses grow, they need a strong financial platform like Gravity. Gravity helps companies grow by unlocking information and reducing operational friction. Gravity provides features that growing companies need while being easy to use and implement. And with real-time insights into all your lines of business, you can make better informed decisions.

If your business is outgrowing your current entry level accounting software, consider Gravity Software. Want to learn more about Gravity? Schedule a Demo at http://go-gravity.com/schedule-a-demo/

About Gravity Software

Gravity Software, LLC (Gravity) is an online cloud business management software company that provides financial business solutions exclusively written for smart businesses. Gravity's robust solution is built on the Microsoft Dynamics 365 (aka Microsoft CRM) platform to give businesses the distinct advantage of having your Financials and CRM fully integrated on one platform. More than just accounting, Gravity provides businesses with the necessary tools and processes to help drive sales, improve customer service and increase productivity. Gravity Software - Simply Innovative Business Management. www.go-gravity.com. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn & Google+, Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, and Like us on Facebook.

About NOESIS

NOESIS is an IT consulting company that provides solutions to increase competitiveness, facilitate management, reduce costs and optimize processes of their clients, both domestically and internationally. NOESIS provides services in a range of economic activities, particularly in the Telecommunications, Financial, Retail sectors, Public Administration, Health, Services and Industry. The NOESIS team consists of highly qualified professionals, with significant experience in the area of information technologies. It is the dedication of this team, in conjunction with their bold spirits, that leads NOESIS to strive for better solutions for their clients forming the foundation that makes NOESIS a reference in the field of Information Technologies. http://www.noesis.pt/en. Follow us on Twitter & LinkedIn, and Like us on Facebook.

Gravity Software and the Gravity logo are trademarks of Gravity Software LLC. All other company and product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact: Jaclyn Cauley





Rodolfo Luis Pereira

[email protected]





[email protected]

844-464-7284





Skype rodolfoluispereira

SOURCE Gravity Software
SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- O.C. Tanner, the global leader in employee recognition and workplace culture, today announced it has signed an agreement to acquire Accumulate Loyalty Services Limited, a leading Australian provider of employee recognition and incentive solutions. This acquisition will enable O.C. Tanner to better support its large multinational clients who have employees and operations in Australia, and further expands O.C. Tanner's existing global presence in the United States, Canada, Europe, Singapore and India.

"This is a natural coming together of two industry leaders  deciding to join forces with Accumulate was an easy decision," said Dave Petersen, CEO of O.C. Tanner. "Our shared vision for helping clients engage their people, along with our similar company cultures makes this a very exciting opportunity."

Accumulate's offerings complement O.C. Tanner's position as the worldwide leader in employee recognition and culture. A history of continuous investment and leadership in cutting-edge technology development allows O.C. Tanner to offer the industry's best suite of products and services.

"Accumulate is the go-to recognition and incentive partner for ASX200 companies," said Alan Heyward, Managing Director at Accumulate. "We're thrilled to be joining the O.C. Tanner family - there's great strategic and cultural alignment, and we look forward to combining our respective strengths and knowledge to deliver leading solutions to our growing client base in Australia and internationally."

The pending acquisition also provides an opportunity to bring the O.C. Tanner Institute, with its deep research and publishing capabilities, into the Australian market. The Institute provides insights and foresight into global industry trends surrounding employee engagement and culture, as well as future product development initiatives.

As Accumulate becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of O.C. Tanner's global network, it will continue to deliver its distinguished products and services to its clients. Qantas, the previous owner of Accumulate, will continue its relationship with the company as its employee recognition client. In addition, O.C. Tanner's product suite will now be available for both multi-national clients and Australian clients.

O.C. Tanner and Accumulate will begin their work of creating engaging workplace cultures together as the new relationship becomes official after the completion of the sale process on October 31, 2017.

About O.C. Tanner

O.C. Tanner, the global leader in employee recognition and culture, helps thousands of top companies accomplish and appreciate great work. Twenty-five of the Fortune 100 Best Companies To Work For use O.C. Tanner's cloud-based technology, tools, awards and services to engage talent, increase performance, drive goals and create great workplace cultures. For more information visit octanner.com.

Media Contact

Lindsey Sine

[email protected]

801-493-3055

SOURCE O.C. Tanner
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of Orbital ATK, Inc. (NYSE: OA) ("Orbital") breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) ("Northrop Grumman"). Orbital develops and produces aerospace, defense, and aviation-related products for the U.S. Government, allied nations, prime contractors, and other customers in the United States and internationally.

On September 18, 2017, Orbital announced that it had signed a definitive merger agreement with Northrop Grumman. Terms of the deal call for shareholders to receive $134.50 per share for each share of Orbital stock they own.

The investigation concerns whether the Orbital board failed to satisfy its 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 Orbital shares of common stock.

If you are a shareholder of Orbital and believe the proposed buyout price is too low or 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. If emailing, please include a phone number.

About Johnson Fistel, LLP:

Johnson Fistel, 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.johnsonfistel.com . Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Contact:

Johnson Fistel, LLP

Jim Baker, 619-814-4471

[email protected]

SOURCE Johnson Fistel, LLP

Related Links

http://www.johnsonfistel.com


TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - Orion Advisor Services, LLC ("Orion"), the premier portfolio accounting service provider for financial advisors, has announced that it is now integrated with FutureVault  a secure, intelligent and collaborative information management platform.

With this new integration, Orion advisors can now offer their clients FutureVault's Digital Collaborative Vault to securely deposit, store and manage important financial, legal and personal documents. FutureVault can help improve the sharing and fiduciary tracking of essential documents between Orion advisors and clients in addition to a client's external network of Trusted Advisors (i.e. lawyers, accountants, insurance brokers, etc.) providing complete transparency and enhanced communication and collaboration.

"FutureVault provides a unique opportunity for Orion advisors to deepen existing client relationships and build multi-generational ones," said Eric Clarke, CEO, Orion Advisor Services. "FutureVault provides the security and organization that will not only bring quantifiable value to clients' daily lives, but will also help Orion advisors differentiate their overall offering, streamline business processes, improve the robustness of their compliance regimes and ultimately enhance the overall client experience."

FutureVault will be integrated into Orion's extensive portfolio of Financial Advisor solutions. Key features of the Digital Collaborative Vault include bank-grade security and privacy, optical character recognition (OCR) with smart-filing technology, pre-configured digital filing cabinet with a flexible infrastructure for folders, documents and document forms.

"Orion has recognized the requirement to and benefits of managing and organizing personal and business information with the same focus and expertise as a client's financial assets," said John D. Orr, CEO, FutureVault. "FutureVault's intelligent and intuitive filing system and unique collaboration features offer Orion advisors and their clients a solution to save time, increase productivity and provide new levels of security and peace-of-mind while ultimately deepening their relationship."

About Orion

Orion Advisor Services, LLC (Orion) is the premier portfolio accounting service provider for advisors. Our firm has unique insights into the advisory profession because it was founded for investment advisors by an investment advisor in 1999. Orion frees advisors from back-office tedium so they can enjoy their business again by devoting their time and energy to better serving clients. Orion provides the integrated and fully customizable technology solutions that advisors need to help grow their businesses over the long term. The firm's technology solutions empower more than 1,200 firms, have $500 billion in AUA and over 1.9 million accounts.

https://www.orionadvisor.com/

About FutureVault

FutureVault is an intelligent personal and business information management company. FutureVault's suite of products offers partner organizations a powerful white label SaaS solution to acquire, reward & retain their clients, members and employees. FutureVault enhances a partner organization's ability to manage key client segments and provides its end users with the ability to digitally deposit, store, and manage their information through a highly-structured, instructive interface across multiple entities. FutureVault's direct-to-business product suite provides tailored solutions targeted at high-value, multi-stakeholder verticals.

http://www.futurevault.com/

SOURCE FutureVault Inc.

Related Links

www.futurevaultinc.com


China General Nuclear Power Corporation (known as CGN) said on Monday it will bid to invest in a financially troubled 15-billion-pound ($20.35 billion) nuclear power station planned for Cumbria, in Northwest England.

Known as Moorside, the power station is projected to generate 3.8 gigawatts of power, which is enough to power up to 6 million homes in the United Kingdom.

Huang Xiaofei, a spokesman for CGN, said the company will bid to make an equity investment in NuGeneration, the company behind Moorside.

"We are willing to utilize our more than 30 years of experience in nuclear design, construction and operation to support the UKs nuclear industry development," Huang said.

NuGeneration, which is more commonly known as NuGen, was a 60-40 percent joint venture between Japans Toshiba and France's Engie. Earlier this year, Engie quit the consortium by selling its 40 percent stake to Toshiba for $139 million, after witnessing Toshiba's nuclear arm Westinghouse file for bankruptcy.

Engie's quitting of the consortium triggered Toshiba to contemplate selling NuGen. Several bidders have expressed an interest in buying into the ownership of NuGen, including South Korea's Kepco.

CGN has already made significant investment into the UKs nuclear sector. It is a minority stake investor in Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, a project that is being led by France's EDF.

Earlier this year CGN also put the Chinese indigenous Hua-long Pressurized Reactor 1000 nuclear technology, also known as HPR1000, before the UK's nuclear regulator for review. If HPR1000 passes the UKs very strict assessment process, Generic Design Assessment, CGN plans to use the technology for the construction of the UK's Bradwell B nuclear power station.

NuGen previously received the UK government's approval to use AP1000 nuclear technology for the construction of the Moorside power plant. However, after the bankruptcy of Westinghouse, the UK's nuclear watchdog, the Office for Nuclear Regulation, put the project under review. The construction timeline for Moorside has not yet been announced.

Westinghouse filed for bankruptcy after incurring some $9 billion of losses, mainly from the construction of four AP1000 reactors in the United States.
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Parallax Health Sciences, Inc. ("Parallax" or the "Company") (PRLX), an innovative, biomedical healthcare company headquartered in Santa Monica, California announced today that it formed Parallax Behavioral Health, Inc. ("PBH") to address the growing market needs for proprietary solutions in behavioral health.

The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration projected that 2017 will see a national behavioral health spend of $239 billion. The numbers are staggering: there are an estimated 4,000 areas in the U.S. designated as having a shortage of mental health professionals  one psychiatrist per 30,000 people. To address this problem, Parallax has developed a strategic plan that combines the formation of a dedicated subsidiary focused on the marketplace, acquisition of proprietary behavioral health software, and the development of novel consumer centric, corporate and government digital solutions.

To address this problem, the tech industry is busy creating digitally-based solutions. Appreciation has been mounting for the economic, personal and societal benefits of treating people who suffer from mental illness or substance abuse. Combined with a shift in treatment from inpatient to outpatient settings, this increasing understanding has fostered growth for the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Clinics industry According to the 2016 IBIS Report.

Nathaniel Bradley, PBH's Chairman, states that "on a personal level my family has been involved in mental health services the majority of my childhood and into my adulthood and professional life. Currently my father, Arizona state Senator David Bradley and I have been involved in suicide prevention initiatives for our military Veterans in Arizona for the last ten years."

Mr. Bradley further stated, "Our entire team believes in both the human need to address the rising problems associated with mental health in the US, and exploit the growing market economics to deliver value for our shareholders and keep true to our commitment to improve the health of our customers."

About Parallax Health Sciences, Inc.

Parallax Health Sciences, Inc. is an innovative biomedical healthcare company delivering consumer-centric products and services in the areas of pharmaceuticals, digital health and remote patient monitoring, behavioral health and point of care diagnostics.

For more information please visit our website at www.parallaxhealthsciences.com or email [email protected]

SOURCE Parallax Health Sciences, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.parallaxhealthsciences.com


MacDonald joined Union Bank in 2012 as an Assistant Vice President of the bank's Redmond, Wash., branch. In 2013, she became manager of the Marysville branch in Snohomish County. She began her banking career in 1991 with Bank of America and has served in roles ranging from small business, training, and branch management.

"Patty's retail banking knowledge and community involvement will continue to be a valuable asset to our team," Regional Manager Maryetta Williams said. "She is known for her excellent customer service and will play a key role in helping ensure that Union Bank is the bank of choice for Seattle residents."

About MUFG Union Bank, N.A.

MUFG Union Bank, N.A., is a full-service bank with offices across the United States. We provide a wide spectrum of corporate, commercial and retail banking and wealth management solutions to meet the needs of customers. We also offer an extensive portfolio of value-added solutions for customers, including investment banking, personal and corporate trust, global custody, transaction banking, capital markets, and other services. With assets of $116.7 billion, as of June 30, 2017, MUFG Union Bank has strong capital reserves, credit ratings and capital ratios relative to peer banks. MUFG Union Bank is a proud member of the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (NYSE: MTU), one of the world's largest financial organizations with total assets of approximately 304.2 trillion (JPY) or $2.7 trillion (USD), as of June 30, 2017. The corporate headquarters (principal executive office) for MUFG Americas Holdings Corporation, which is the financial holding company and MUFG Union Bank, is in New York City. The main banking office of MUFG Union Bank is in San Francisco, California.

1 Exchange rate of 1 USD=112.0 (JPY) as of June 30, 2017

SOURCE MUFG Union Bank, N.A.

Related Links

http://www.unionbank.com


RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.  Petrobras ("Petrobras") (NYSE: PBR) today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Petrobras Global Finance B.V. ("PGF"), plans to offer (the "New Money Offer") U.S.-dollar denominated global notes in one or more series (the "New Money Notes"), in an expected aggregate principal amount of up to U.S.$2 billion, subject to market and other conditions, and the commencement of two concurrent liability management transactions to purchase or exchange for New Notes (as defined below), as applicable, five series of PGF's outstanding notes.

Offering of New Money Notes

The New Money Notes will be unsecured obligations of PGF and will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Petrobras. The New Money Notes are expected to have identical terms to the New Notes issued in connection with the Exchange Offers (as defined below). PGF intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of the New Money Notes for general corporate purposes, including to refinance upcoming maturities.

The New Money Notes are being sold to qualified institutional buyers in the United States in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and to persons outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The New Money Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act or any state or other jurisdiction's securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the New Money Notes or any other securities, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of the New Money Notes or any other securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Exchange Offers

The first liability management transaction consists of five separate private offers to exchange (the "Exchange Offers") any and all of the outstanding series of notes listed below under the heading "Exchange Offers" (collectively, the "Old Notes") for newly issued debt securities of PGF (the "New Notes"), on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum dated September 18, 2017 (the "Offering Memorandum" and together with the accompanying eligibility letter (the "Eligibility Letter") and notice of guaranteed delivery, each as amended or supplemented from time to time, the "Exchange Offer Documents"). Only holders who have duly completed and submitted an Eligibility Letter certifying that they are either (1) "qualified institutional buyers" ("QIBs") as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act or (2) non-"U.S. persons" (as defined in Rule 902 under the Securities Act) located outside of the United States are authorized to receive the Offering Memorandum and to participate in the Exchange Offers ("Exchange Offer Eligible Holders").

The Exchange Offers will expire at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 22, 2017 (such date and time with respect to an Exchange Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Exchange Offer, an "Exchange Offer Expiration Date"). Old Notes tendered may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 22, 2017 (such date and time with respect to an Exchange Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Exchange Offer, an "Exchange Offer Withdrawal Date"), but not thereafter, unless extended by PGF. The "Exchange Offer Settlement Date" with respect to an Exchange Offer will be promptly following the applicable Exchange Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be September 27, 2017.

On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offering Memorandum, PGF is offering to:

(i) exchange (the "2025 Exchange Offer") any and all of its outstanding notes listed below for New Notes due 2025 of PGF (the "New Notes due 2025"):

CUSIP / ISIN

Number Title of Security Principal

Amount

Outstanding Principal Amount of

New Notes Due 2025

Offered as Exchange

Consideration per

U.S.$1,000 Principal

Amount of Old Note(1) 71647NAH2 / US71647NAH26 4.875% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$542,535,000 U.S.$1,055.00 71645W AR2 / US71645WAR25 5.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$5,250,000,000 U.S.$1,062.50

(ii) exchange (the "2028 Exchange Offers") any and all of its outstanding notes listed below for New Notes due 2028 of PGF (the "New Notes due 2028"):

CUSIP / ISIN

Number Title of Security Principal

Amount

Outstanding Principal Amount of

New Notes Due 2028

Offered as Exchange

Consideration per

U.S.$1,000 Principal

Amount of Old Note(1) 71645WAN1 / US71645WAN11 7.875% Global Notes due 2019 U.S.$705,560,000 U.S.$1,087.00 71645WAP6 / US71645WAP68 5.75% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$1,165,227,000 U.S.$1,075.00 71647N AP4 / US71647NAP42 8.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$6,750,000,000 U.S.$1,167.50

_______________________

(1) Payable in principal amount of the applicable series of New Notes per each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of the specified series of Old Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the applicable Exchange Offer Expiration Date or the Guaranteed Delivery Date (as defined in the Offering Memorandum) pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures described in the Offering Memorandum and accepted for exchange. The Exchange Consideration does not include the applicable Accrued Coupon Payment (as defined below).

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Exchange Offer Documents, Exchange Offer Eligible Holders who validly tender and who do not validly withdraw Old Notes at or prior to the applicable Exchange Offer Expiration Date, or at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the second business day after the applicable Exchange Offer Expiration Date pursuant to guaranteed delivery procedures, and whose Old Notes are accepted for exchange by PGF, will receive the applicable Exchange Consideration set forth in the table above for each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of such Old Notes. The Exchange Consideration will be payable in principal amount of the applicable series of New Notes.

In addition to the applicable Exchange Consideration, Exchange Offer Eligible Holders whose Old Notes are accepted for exchange will be paid, in cash, accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes to, but not including, the applicable Exchange Offer Settlement Date (the "Accrued Coupon Payment"). Interest will cease to accrue on the applicable Exchange Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes exchanged on the applicable Exchange Offer Settlement Date.

Pursuant to the Minimum Issue Requirement, PGF will not complete (a) the 2025 Exchange Offers if the aggregate principal amount of New Notes due 2025 to be issued in the Exchange Offers and New Money Notes due 2025 to be issued in the New Money Offering, taken together, would be less than U.S.$500 million, or (b) the 2028 Exchange Offers if the aggregate principal amount of New Notes due 2028 to be issued in the Exchange Offers and New Money Notes due 2028 to be issued in the New Money Offering, taken together, would be less than U.S.$500 million.

In addition to the Minimum Issue Requirement, PGF's obligation to accept any series of Old Notes tendered in the Exchange Offers is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions applicable to the Exchange Offer for such series as described in the Offering Memorandum, including (1) certain customary conditions, including that PGF will not be obligated to consummate the Exchange Offers upon the occurrence of an event or events or the likely occurrence of an event or events that would or might reasonably be expected to prohibit, restrict or delay the consummation of the Exchange Offers or materially impair the contemplated benefits to PGF of the Exchange Offers, (2) the Cash Offer Completion Condition, which requires the timely satisfaction or waiver of all of the conditions precedent to the completion of the corresponding Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes, (3) the New Money Offering Condition, which requires the New Money Notes due 2025 to have been priced between 5.125% and 5.625%, and the New Money Notes due 2028 to have been priced between 5.625% and 6.125%, and the closing of the New Money Offering, (4) the Accounting Treatment Condition (as defined in the Offering Memorandum), and (5) the New Notes Fungibility Condition, pursuant to which PGF will not be obligated to complete an Exchange offer with respect to a series of Old Notes if the issuance of the applicable series of New Notes in exchange for such Old Notes would cause such New Notes to not be fungible with the corresponding series of New Money Notes. PGF reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive any and all conditions to any Exchange Offer (other than conditions described as non-waivable).

PGF will terminate an Exchange Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes, and PGF will terminate the Cash Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes. The termination of a Cash Offer for a series of Old Notes will not impact the Exchange Offers for any other series of Old Notes. If PGF extends any Cash Offer for a series of Old Notes for any reason, PGF will extend the corresponding Exchange Offer for such series Old Notes.

If and when issued, the New Notes will not be registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws. Therefore, the New Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. PGF will enter into a registration rights agreement with respect to the New Notes.

Global Bondholder Services Corporation will act as the Information Agent and the Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Exchange Offers or for additional copies of the Exchange Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (866) 470-3800 (toll free) or (212) 430-3774 (collect). You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Exchange Offers. The Exchange Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: http://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/petrobras-exchange.

Cash Offers

The second liability management transaction consists of five separate offers to purchase for cash (the "Cash Offers") any and all of each series of Old Notes, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase dated September 18, 2017 (the "Offer to Purchase" and, together with the accompanying certification instructions letter and notice of guaranteed delivery, the "Cash Offer Documents"). Holders who are either (i) QIBs within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act or (ii) non-U.S. persons (as defined in Rule 902 under the Securities Act) located outside the United States within the meaning of Regulation S under the Securities Act, are not Cash Offer Qualified Holders (as defined below) and are not permitted to participate in the Cash Offers. All other holders of Old Notes are eligible to participate in the Cash Offers (such other holders, the "Cash Offer Qualified Holders"). Holders participating in the Cash Offers are required to certify that they are Cash Offer Qualified Holders.

Holders of Old Notes eligible to participate in the Exchange Offers are not eligible to participate in the Cash Offers.

CUSIP/ISIN

Number Title of Security Tender Consideration(1) 71645WAN1 / US71645WAN11 7.875% Global Notes due 2019 U.S.$1,087.00 71647NAH2 / US71647NAH26 4.875% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$1,055.00 71645WAP6 / US71645WAP68 5.75% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$1,075.00 71645W AR2 / US71645WAR25 5.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$1,062.50 71647N AP4 / US71647NAP42 8.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$1,167.50

______________________

(1) Payable in cash per each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of the specified series of Old Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the applicable Cash Offer Expiration Date or the Guaranteed Delivery Date (as defined in the Offer to Purchase) pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures described in the Offer to Purchase and accepted for purchase. The Tender Consideration does not include the applicable Accrued Coupon Payment (as defined below).

The Cash Offers will expire at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 22, 2017 (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Cash Offer, a "Cash Offer Expiration Date"). Old Notes tendered may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 22, 2017 (such date and time with respect to a Cash Offer, as the same may be extended with respect to such Cash Offer, a "Cash Offer Withdrawal Date"), but not thereafter, unless extended by PGF. The "Cash Offer Settlement Date" with respect to a Cash Offer will be promptly following the applicable Cash Offer Expiration Date and is expected to be September 27, 2017.

Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Cash Offer Documents, Cash Offer Qualified Holders who (i) validly tender and who do not validly withdraw Old Notes at or prior to the applicable Cash Offer Expiration Date or (ii) deliver a properly completed and duly executed notice of guaranteed delivery and all other required documents at or prior to the applicable Cash Offer Expiration Date and tender their Old Notes at or prior to the Guaranteed Delivery Date, and whose Old Notes are accepted for purchase by us, will receive the applicable Tender Consideration set forth in the table above for each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of such Old Notes. The Tender Consideration will be payable in cash.

In addition to the applicable Tender Consideration, Cash Offer Qualified Holders whose Old Notes are accepted for purchase will be paid accrued and unpaid interest on such Old Notes to, but not including, the applicable Cash Offer Settlement Date (the "Accrued Coupon Payment"). Interest will cease to accrue on the applicable Cash Offer Settlement Date for all Old Notes purchased in the Cash Offers, including those tendered through the guaranteed delivery procedures.

PGF's obligation to accept Old Notes tendered in the Cash Offers is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions described in the Offer to Purchase including (1) the Maximum Tender Condition (as described below) and (2) the Exchange Offer Completion Condition, which requires the timely satisfaction or waiver of all of the conditions precedent to the completion of the corresponding Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes. PGF reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive any and all conditions to any Cash Offer, except for the Exchange Offer Completion Condition.

Pursuant to the "Maximum Tender Condition," PGF's obligation to accept and pay for a series of Old Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn is conditioned on the aggregate principal amount of validly tendered Old Notes of such series not exceeding the Maximum Tender Amount set forth in the table below for such series. PGF reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive the Maximum Tender Condition with respect to any Cash Offer.

CUSIP/ISIN

Number Title of Security Principal

Amount Outstanding Maximum Tender

Amount 71645WAN1 / US71645WAN11 7.875% Global Notes due 2019 U.S.$705,560,000 U.S.$15,000,000 71647NAH2 / US71647NAH26 4.875% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$542,535,000 U.S.$15,000,000 71645WAP6 / US71645WAP68 5.75% Global Notes due 2020 U.S.$1,165,227,000 U.S.$35,000,000 71645W AR2 / US71645WAR25 5.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$5,250,000,000 U.S.$175,000,000 71647N AP4 / US71647NAP42 8.375% Global Notes due 2021 U.S.$6,750,000,000 U.S.$260,000,000

PGF will terminate a Cash Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Exchange Offer for such series of Old Notes, and it will terminate the Exchange Offer for a given series of Old Notes if it terminates the Cash Offer for such series of Old Notes.

Global Bondholder Services Corporation will also act as the Information Agent and the Tender Agent for the Cash Offers. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Cash Offers or for additional copies of the Cash Offer Documents may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (866) 470-3800 (toll free) or (212) 430-3774 (collect). You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Cash Offers. The Cash Offer Documents can be accessed at the following link: http://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/petrobras-tender.

PGF refers to the Exchange Offers and the Cash Offers, collectively, as the "Offers."

If PGF terminates any Offer with respect to one or more series of Old Notes, it will give prompt notice to the Tender Agent or Exchange Agent, as applicable, and all Old Notes tendered pursuant to such terminated Offer will be returned promptly to the tendering holders thereof. With effect from such termination, any Old Notes blocked in DTC will be released.

Holders are advised to check with any bank, securities broker or other intermediary through which they hold Old Notes as to when such intermediary needs to receive instructions from a holder in order for that holder to be able to participate in, or (in the circumstances in which revocation is permitted) revoke their instruction to participate in, the Offers, before the deadlines specified herein and in the Exchange Offer Documents or the Cash Offer Documents, as applicable. The deadlines set by each clearing system for the submission and withdrawal of tender instructions will also be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified herein and in the Exchange Offer Documents or the Cash Offer Documents, as applicable.

This announcement is for informational purposes only. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any Old Notes. The Exchange Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offering Memorandum and related documents and the Cash Offers are being made solely pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and related documents. The Offers are not being made to holders of Old Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction in which the securities laws or blue sky laws require the Offers to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Offers will be deemed to be made on behalf of PGF by the dealer managers for the Offers or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.

This communication and any other documents or materials relating to the Offers have not been approved by an authorized person for the purposes of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the "FSMA"). Accordingly, this communication and such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, persons in the United Kingdom save in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. This communication is only being made to those persons in the United Kingdom (i) falling within the definition of investment professionals (as defined in Article 19(5) Financial Promotion Order, (ii) falling within Article 43 of the Financial Promotion Order (non-real time communication by or on behalf of a body corporate to creditors of that body corporate), or (iii) to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated by virtue of an exemption to section 21(1) of the FSMA or otherwise in circumstances where it does not apply (all such persons together being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). This communication is directed only at Relevant Persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not Relevant Persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended that are not based on historical facts and are not assurances of future results. No assurance can be given that the transactions described herein will be consummated or as to the ultimate terms of any such transactions. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and you should not place reliance on any forward-looking statement contained in this press release. Petrobras and PGF undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or for any other reason.

SOURCE Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.
September 2017|Philippines News

Growing Infrastructure and construction industry in the country is expected to raise the demand for LED lights to meet the public lighting needs

Initiatives by the government and major players to raise the awareness of energy efficient lighting systems among the public are expected to increase the LED light penetration rate among the residential customers.

Rising concerns among the public about sustainable environment and demand for lighting systems that are less harmful to the environment, to raise the demand for LED lights

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130909/638322 )



The LED lights market in Philippines is currently in a nascent stage and is expected to grow at a remarkable rate in the coming five years. Manufacturing plants for LED lights are expected to be installed in the country by both national and international players. The demand for LED lights has shown a consistent rise since its inception in the Philippines and the same trend is expected to continue at least for the next five years. Rising demand for the product is expected to increase competition in the market. New players are expected to rise and the major parameter of competition shall be price. The lack of awareness has constrained the penetration of LED lights in the country. To deal with the scenario, major players in the market are increasingly focusing on spreading awareness among the people related to the use of LED lights. The country's president Rodrigo Duterte has envisioned a plan called "golden age of infrastructure" which is expected to be majorly financed by the influx of money from China and Japan. It is an infrastructure development project with an estimated investment of USD 168 billion on 5,000 developmental projects across the nation within the next six years. These infrastructure projects are expected to raise the demand for LED lightings to meet the public lighting needs.

The awareness programs conducted by both government and players in the market are expected to raise the LED light penetration rate in the country by at least 40% by 2021. Especially, the penetration among the residential customers is expected to rise in the coming years due to the sustainability concern.

Ken Research in its latest study, Philippines LED Lights Market Outlook to 2021 observed that the rising residential and commercial construction in the country and the government plans to reach 100% in the electricity penetration shall amplify the growth rate of LED lights market in the country. An emphasis on local manufacturing, increased focus on the residential customers and implementation of a standard regulatory framework for the market shall support growth in the market.

The Philippines LED lights market is estimated to register a positive CAGR of over 20% during 2017-2021. Rising awareness activities, reduction in the prices, infrastructural developments, government initiatives, improved product offerings and similar other factors are expected to be key drivers for a growth in the demand for LED lights in the country.

The report provides information on the types of LED, its usage, types of luminaires, type of lamps, distribution channel and the regions dominating the market in terms of revenues. It also covers the major players in the market such as Yatai International Corporation, Firefly Electric and Lighting Corporation, Akari Lighting & Technology, General Electric Philippines, Philips Electronics and Lighting, Inc. (PELI) and Green Energy Saving (GES).

Key Topics Covered in the Report:

Philippines LED Lighting Market

Industry Size Forecast LED Light

LED Luminaries Market Philippines

LED Lamps Industry Philippines

Indoor LED Lights in Philippines

Future LED Philippines

LED Lights Sales in Philippines

Revenue LED Philippines

Panel Lights Market Philippines

Directional LED Light Market Philippines

Spot Lights Market in Philippines

LED Tubes Market Philippines

General Lighting Market Philippines

Yatai International Market Share Philippines

Firefly Electric Competition Philippines

Akari Lighting Revenue LED Philippines

FELCO LED Sales Philippines

Philippines LED Philippines

Traffic Lights Market Philippines

LED Light Retrofit Market Philippines

For more information on the market research report please refer to the below link:

https://www.kenresearch.com/consumer-products-and-retail/consumer-electronics/philippines-led-lighting-market/139309-95.html

Related Reports by Ken Research

US LED Lighting Market Outlook to 2021- Demand for Energy Efficient Lighting and Government Initiatives to Lighten the Future

India Online Consumer Electronics Market Outlook to 2020 - Lucrative Discounts and Escalating Internet Users to Foster Growth

South Korea LED Lighting Market Outlook to 2018 - Backlighting Units to Drive LED Growth

Contact Us:

Ken Research

Ankur Gupta

Head Marketing & Communications

[email protected]

+91-9015378249





SOURCE Ken Research
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (POLA/POLB) begin final consideration of their updated 2017 Clean Air Action Plan (the "Plan"), regulators must embrace the future role of diesel technology in the global goods movement sector and the substantial, immediate clean air and climate benefits that the latest clean diesel technologies offer.

Because of its unique combination of power, performance, efficiency, reliability, durability and availability, diesel power is projected to remain the dominant technology for global goods movement on land and sea for the next period covered by this plan. The newest generation of clean diesel technology achieves near-zero levels of emissions for nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, while also maintaining an efficiency and performance advantage over other fuels.

"Clean diesel has a proven track record for the POLA/POLB, and that's one reason we know it will be successful in the future," said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum (the Forum). "The majority of the emission reduction benefits realized when the Clean Truck Program was implemented in 2012 came from truck operators choosing clean diesel power over alternative fuels."

Schaffer continued: "As currently constructed, this updated Clean Air Action Plan must do more to recognize and leverage strategies like accelerated adoption of cleaner diesel engines and equipment that achieve proven near-term benefits. One of the key uncertainties of the plan is technology availability in the form of the timing, market success and availability of any alternative fuels and powertrains in the Port service setting. The potential for slowed or impaired progress in achieving clean air and greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets without a balanced fuel, technology and timeline approach is real."

As the port considers future technology investments upgrading or replacing older vehicles, equipment, switch locomotives and harbor craft with the latest clean diesel technology will do the most to deliver needed emission reductions to sensitive communities most in need of emission reductions in a timely manner.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) most recent National Port Strategy Assessment (December 2016):

Replacing a model year 2007 Class 8 drayage truck with a model year 2010 or newer diesel drayage truck can reduce NOx emissions by 221 lbs. Multiplied over the 60 percent of the truck fleet that does not come with technology to meet the model year 2010 standard, the port could reduce emissions by 2.1 million lbs. of NOx.

Replacing a single old engine that powers a switch locomotive with a Tier 4 model can reduce NOx emissions by 37,000 lbs. of NOx and 974 lbs. of particulate matter emissions. Replacing the older engine in the wide variety of marine workboats including tugs and ferries can have equally significant emissions reductions.

"These significant emission reductions could be delivered immediately by technology that is sitting on dealer lots today, which does not require the lengthy and expensive buildout of refueling or recharging infrastructure, or the widespread adoption of technologies not yet available at a commercial market scale," said Schaeffer. "Further, the POLA/POLB can immediately enhance this proven clean air performance and achieve significant greenhouse gas reduction capabilities by utilizing low-carbon renewable diesel fuel in all its diesel engines and equipment."

More recent demonstration projects show new concepts for clean diesel power in drayage operation. Drayage trucks with downsized diesel engines integrated with battery electric drive modes for on-port operations and a geo-fence enabled ability to switch to diesel power in off-port settings, give it a best-of-both worlds performance.

"Based on this record," said Schaeffer, "we are confident that the newest generation of clean diesel technology is poised to contribute to even more emission reductions and help the POLA/POLB achieve their climate and clean air goals and power a modern, world-class near-zero emissions freight and goods movement system for the future."

Estimated MY 2007-2009 Truck Population Replacement Strategy Anticipated NOx Reduction (lbs.) Estimated Cost of Technology Total Cost of Achieving Reductions Currently Available 9,600 MY 2010 Diesel 2.1 million $110,000 $1.056 billion Yes 9,600 Battery Electric 2.5 million $220,000 $2.1 billion No SOURCE: Nation Port Strategy Assessment: Reducing Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases at U.S. Ports, U.S. EPA.

Truck Replacement Strategy Anticipated NOx Reduction (lbs.) Replace MY 2007-2009 with MY 2010 Diesel 221 Replace MY 2010 with Zero Emission 44 SOURCE: Nation Port Strategy Assessment: Reducing Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases at U.S. Ports, U.S. EPA. Page 46.

Replacing Older Engines with

Tier 4 Option Anticipated NOx Reduction (lbs.) Equivalent to Replacing MY 2007 Dray Trucks with MY 2010 Model Tug Boat 96,000 434 Switch Locomotive 37,000 167 Ferry 62,000 280 SOURCE: Nation Port Strategy Assessment: Reducing Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases at U.S. Ports, U.S. EPA.

When California's Clean Air Action Program was implemented in 2012, nine out of every 10 trucks required to meet the model year 2007 emissions standard were powered by diesel, according to previous emission inventories. The most recent emissions inventory published by the Port of Long Beach estimates that 95 percent of drayage truck calls were performed by drayage trucks powered by diesel engines.

Since 2012, a new, near-zero NOx standard was established for model year 2010. According to the Clean Air Action Plan Update, about 60 percent of the fleet  roughly 9,600 California trucks  do not have the technology to meet the latest near-zero tailpipe emissions standard set for model year 2010.

According to the Forum's most recent analysis, only around 23 percent of California's commercial heavy-duty diesel trucking fleet  the largest in the United States at nearly a million vehicles  currently use the newest, cleanest diesel technology. The national average is 30 percent adoption.

"Excluding the latest clean diesel trucks from eligibility in a potential preferential access scheme will ensure substantial delays in achieving emission reductions for sensitive communities," said Schaeffer.





Read the Diesel Technology Forum's full comment on the Clean Air Action Plan Update here.

About The Diesel Technology Forum

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology. Forum members are leaders in clean diesel technology and represent the three key elements of the modern clean-diesel system: advanced engines, vehicles and equipment, cleaner diesel fuel and emissions-control systems. For more information visit www.dieselforum.org.



Contact:

Sarah Dirndorfer

[email protected]

301.668.7230 (o) 301.706.8276 (c)

(View this press release online)

SOURCE Diesel Technology Forum

Related Links

http://www.dieselforum.org


SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the natural disasters that devastated its native state and many regions where its exhibitors are based, a Miami franchise consulting company is moving ahead full force on hosting the world's first Virtual Reality franchise trade show in Schaumburg later this month.

After evacuating Florida to get out of harm's way via Hurricane Irma, The Franchise Consulting Company (TFCC), which specializes in placing budding entrepreneurs with franchise systems that best suit their lifestyle, budget, interest, etc., says The Franchise Seminar, scheduled for Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, will go on as planned. The show will have more than 60 franchisors for attendees to meet with and Virtual Reality headsets that allow attendees to "step inside" the franchises from where they are standing at the show. There will also be expert seminars on how to start and grow a business.

Show organizer Nick Neonakis, founder & CEO of TFCC, saw first-hand the devastation the hurricanes brought to his community and others. He says when exhibitors asked him if there were any plans to cancel the show, his immediate response was, "not a chance."

"We have over 60 franchisors planning to meet with hundreds of ambitious entrepreneurs who have registered for the show. We aren't going to delay someone's dream of opening a small business in their community because of the hurricanes. We've gotten through many tough times in our country by taking an attitude of not letting anything stand in our way or stop us from doing business, and this is no different," said Neonakis, author of Amazon.com No. 1 bestseller The Franchise MBA.

In addition to moving forward with the show, Neonakis and TFCC will be giving away VR headsets at no charge to any resident of Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Georgia and South Carolina who is interested in exploring franchise opportunities.

"We recognize the physical devastation Harvey and Irma have caused, but we believe it shouldn't stop anyone from following the path of entrepreneurship," he said.

Those who live in an effected area who would like a franchise VR headset can visit https://www.thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com/#ContactUs or call t 1-800-856-6158.

Also, to register for The Franchise Seminar, visit TheFranchiseSeminar.com. Admission to the event is complimentary for those who register online, or $8 at the door. All first responders (police men and women, firefighters, EMTs, etc.) may keep the VR headsets free of charge. The first 100 attendees through the door on both days will get a free VR headset to keep.

About The Franchise Consulting Company

Founded by franchise industry veteran Nick Neonakis, The Franchise Consulting Company has grown to over 75 consultants spread across the USA, Canada and has an office in New Delhi, India. They help match prospective business owners with the perfect franchise. As the pioneer in virtual reality technology in the franchise space, The Franchise Consulting Company utilizes a wealth of resources and a four-step system to connect prospects with successful businesses. They work in all industries of franchising, including retail, food, automotive, personal service and property service. For more information or to contact a consultant at the Franchise Consulting Company, visit TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com.

SOURCE The Franchise Consulting Company

Related Links

https://www.thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com


DENVER, Sept. 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Discover the art of living at the upcoming Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) Collapsing Time Lecture Series. Join visiting artist Andrea Zittel as she explores limitations of living space and living without measured time. In a lecture titled "How to Live?" Zittel will discuss her works which try to comprehend broad values such as freedom, security, authorship, and expertise and illuminate how we attribute significance to structures or ways of life and how that attribution can be subjective, arbitrary, or even outright invented.

ABOUT ANDREA ZITTEL

Currently living in Joshua Tree, CA, Zittel received her BFA from San Diego State University, and MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. Her first post-school venture was A-Z East, a small row house in Brooklyn turned into a showroom and testing grounds for her prototypes for living. She returned to the west coast to found A-Z Westthe current site of her studio practice. Zittel's work has been included in major group exhibitions such as the Venice Biennale, Documenta, and the Whitney Biennial. She has had solo exhibitions at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh, the Whitney Museum of American Art and more.

"With a lot of my work I have been trying to show how these concepts of individualism are reflected in our homes and possessions. A few hundred years ago, the private individual realm didn't exist in people's homes. Now we're so obsessed with the details of our homes and how they reflect our personalities and our characters. And this seems to coincide perfectly with a new emphasis on peoples' inner selves. The two go hand in handso that in some ways our interiors have actually become externalized reflections of our soul." Artist, Andrea Zittel

ABOUT THE COLLAPSING TIME LECTURE SERIES

The Collapsing Time Lecture Series challenges a singular perspective of time by presenting manifold interpretations of time's malleability while considering how flattening past, present, and future through creative models generates new experiences of time beyond physical limitations. These lectures are free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is highly encouraged. Complete lecture descriptions, artist biographies, and event registration information can be found at www.vasd.rmcad.edu/collapsing-time-series/

ABOUT THE VASD PROGRAM AT RMCAD

A premier arts school, Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design provides an innovative and community-oriented global learning environment that inspires passion for critical thinking and prepares learners to be forces of change. The Visiting Artist, Scholar, and Designer (VASD) Program is an interdisciplinary initiative at the college that enriches the academic experience and serves the greater Denver-metro area. A series of renowned artists visit campus to explore critical, diverse, and creative inquiry. Learn more at vasd.rmcad.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Gretchen Marie Schaefer

[email protected]

720.951.2164

SOURCE Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

Related Links

http://www.rmcad.edu


Some of the competition winners who have gone on to build successful businesses, including Playa Bowls, Tea and Honey Blends and Bergen Botanicals. The competition, which is sponsored by the Sales Executive Club of Northern New Jersey Foundation, enhances the ability of Rutgers students to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.

Rutgers is the No. 1 public MBA program in the northeast, according to the Financial Times 2017 Global MBA Report which found that Rutgers MBA graduates had a 130 percent total salary increase three years after graduation - the best in the U.S. In addition, Rutgers has a proven track record of connecting graduates to great companies, ranking No. 1 in the U.S. for MBA job placement by Bloomberg Businessweek.

To find out more about the opportunities open to Rutgers MBA students and the advantages the program offers, come to an Open House on Oct. 7 in Newark or Oct. 29 in New Brunswick.

Here's a look at some of the most recent winners of the Rutgers Business Plan Competition:

Startup taps overlooked market

Behind lots of new businesses is a problem that needs fixing.

When Anton Kogan realized how difficult it was to send packages to jail prisoners  not only is it time-consuming, but deliveries are denied for a myriad of reasons, including the way a box is sealed  he set out to provide a service that would make it easier and more effective for friends and relatives to ship care packages.

"I thought there had to be a better way," Kogan said.

Emma's Premium Foods was born, offering food as well as apparel, books and other goods that can be shipped to prisoners in New York State Corrections and Community Supervision facilities. Customers can order a range of products by telephone or online and arrange for Emma's to handle delivery. The company caters to inmates as well as relatives and friends who may be shopping for them.

In its second year, the business is growing rapidly  monthly sales have increased five-fold since the company was launched in 2015. Sales for 2017 are projected to reach $350,000, fueled largely by word of mouth, Kogan said.

The potential of the start-up business earned Kogan the top prize of $20,000 in the 2017 Business Plan Competition.

Kogan, 29, studies supply chain management and global business as a Part-Time MBA Program at Rutgers Business School. He is building Emma's around his studies and a full-time job. "I like business. That's my thing," he said. "I had this idea and I wanted to see if I could spin it into a profitable company."

The prize money will enable him and his part-time workers to move the growing operation out of a basement and into a commercial space. Undaunted by a single large competitor, Kogan said he hopes to expand Emma's into Pennsylvania and Connecticut.

"I knew there was something worth mining," he said. "This market was overlooked."

Building a business that keeps people moving

Good health never goes out of fashion.

Racquel Clarke, a Rutgers Full-Time MBA alumna, started pop-up fitness company FitFUNd last year to make it even easier for people to achieve the health benefits of exercise and activity.

"I see us filling a new space in the wellness ecosystem," Clarke said recently. "People need convenience when it comes to physical activity."

Her company makes exercise accessible to busy professionals by offering onsite classes as part of corporate wellness programs. FitFUNd also works with children in creative learn-through-play programs at community locations like libraries and schools.

Clarke said she was introduced to the concept of health equity as an undergraduate when she volunteered with a local community center, and her interest grew after working at a health insurance company where she realized the difference information and accessibility can have on people's wellness.

When she was at Rutgers, Clarke said she concentrated in social entrepreneurship and realized business could have a social impact and still be financially sustainable.

In its first year, without any marketing, FitFUNd provided onsite classes to 19 clients. The company is a social enterprise and uses part of its profit to subsidize the cost of kid-fit classes at local non-profits that serve children. Classes are booked online at www.gofitfund.com.

As more human resources managers and more working professionals realize the benefits of taking breaks to move during the course of the workday, Clarke is hoping the idea of having fitness classes available regularly in corporate settings will spread.

Others see the possibility of a new trend taking hold.

Clarke's start-up business won third place and $10,000 in the 2017 Business Plan Competition at Rutgers Business School. She hopes to use the prize money to promote her corporate wellness events and grow her business by attracting more companies and organizations as clients.

Clarke, who is the company's operations manager, runs the business with two other Rutgers MBA alumni. Norville Barrington, who graduated from the Part-Time MBA Program in 2014, is marketing manager. Another 2014 MBA graduate, Jaliyla Nieves, handles finance operations.

SOURCE Rutgers Business School

Related Links

http://www.business.rutgers.edu


GERMANTOWN, Md., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Beeper Communications, Israel, Safety Dynamics, Inc. and Mantaro Networks, Inc. have entered into a definitive Letter Of Intent to form a Strategic Technology Alliance to develop, deploy and integrate gunshot detection and video monitoring, with leading-edge wireless communications in order to best serve police, first responders, public safety and critical infrastructure customers.

Mantaro Networks, Inc.

Currently, the Companies provide advanced communications and sensory platforms to municipalities and cities across the United States, as well as in Latin America, the EU and Israel. They collectively serve allied military, homeland security and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA), as well as critical infrastructure and electric, gas and other utility concerns globally.

Safety Dynamics is an industry pioneer specializing in gunshot detection, camera and acoustic surveillance and other analytical sensory technology and warning systems. Beeper possesses vast experience with these technologies in Israel, and specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced wireless channel bonding technology, for the wireless broadband communication market. Beeper is ranked as an "excellent supplier" by the Ministry of Defense. Mantaro provides similar systems through their UGVs, to Law Enforcement Agencies in the United States.

Of the core technologies at the heart of this integration, Beeper's IE 5000 cellular bonder is the leading anywhere-to-everywhere wireless connectivity facilitator. It aggregates and bonds up to four cellular channels, WiFi, and satellite frequencies. The integration of Beeper's SD WAN cellular bonding and communications system will significantly increase the security and reliability of the mission-critical Safety Dynamics SENTRI product line for early warning, gunshot detection, smart fence, ground and virtual, and anomaly detection solutions. The Beeper Communications platform will secure and enhance the transmission of video and data under the most challenging of conditions for public safety and critical infrastructure concerns.

Mantaro Networks, through a pre-existing partnership with Beeper, will provide best in class engineering services for the project, and act as engineering and technology integrator. Mantaro already sells and supports the Beeper and Safety Dynamics technology in the U.S., and will also incorporate enhanced automatic testing and emulation software, further improving upon the existing system's maintenance, monitoring and control capabilities.

Independently, the three companies already provide proven commercial, and R&D products and solutions to allied military & government agencies and critical infrastructure customers. Collectively, they have received tens of millions of dollars in development funding for mission-critical technology solutions.

"This technology partnership will speed the delivery of a newest portable/mobile version of the SENTRI gunshot detection systems that will now be enabled through the Beeper SD WAN wireless platform. The growing gun violence in our major cities, and events like the shootings in Alexandria this spring, the multiple and unpredictable attacks that continue in the EU and elsewhere only point out the need for cities and their public safety personnel to have access to advanced technology, that is not only affordable, but also portable and flexible enough to be deployed and useful before events happen. A portable version of the system will be an ideal line of defense and early alert," states Sally Fernandez, CEO Safety Dynamics.

"This partnership with Safety Dynamics is a natural extension of Beeper's experience into the U.S. markets for Public Safety. Our work with these kinds of complex systems and our proven track record meeting customer needs is crucial to success. Mantaro remains the ideal engineering partner with vast experience in telecommunications technology development and will integrate these various platforms. I am sure that this technology alliance will help all of us serve our customers, and the public even better,"  Moshe Levinson, SVP Business Development and Special Situations, Beeper Israel.

The Companies have begun their first joint engineering for four initial U.S. city projects in the Northeast and Midwestern U.S., with first deliveries scheduled for October of 2017.

For More information Contact:

Jared Brody

[email protected]

www.beepergroup.com

www.mantaro.com

www.safetydynamics.com

Related Images

image1.png

Microphone and Array

image2.png

Beeper on Air Ecosystem

image3.png

IE 5000 Multi-WAN Bonder

SOURCE Mantaro Networks, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.mantaro.com


Safi Kilima Tanzanite Brand Director Alison Finkler said, "Tanzanite was a rare and wonderful discovery 50 years ago, and to date, we've expanded the tanzanite selection through our own brand, Safi Kilima Tanzanite. Within this collection are some of the largest carved loose stones in history, including our recently released 600 carat pear shaped stone. The Safi Kilima Tanzanite stones that are 5 carats or larger really showcase the beauty and breathtaking color of these rare gemstones."

Safi Kilima Tanzanite is one of the largest tanzanite distributors located in stores that span across the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska. These 100 ct plus stones will call Alaska their home for a limited time, where Safi Kilima Tanzanite is available to travelers seeking to discover beauty and rarity around the world and the pursuit of taking a piece of history home with them.

About Safi Kilima Tanzanite:

Founded in 2010, Safi Kilima Tanzanite is a global leader in tanzanite. The premier brand is exclusive to Diamonds International and Tanzanite International stores; the largest tax and duty free jewelry retailer in the Caribbean, Mexico and Alaska. In 2017, Tanzanite celebrated its 50th anniversary and the timeless quality, superior grade and value that has become synonymous with the rare, blue and violet colored stone. For more information please visit www.safikilima.com.

About Diamonds International:

With over 125 stores, Diamonds International is the largest and most prominent privately held jewelry retailer in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Established in 1988, Diamonds International is the world's largest tax-free, duty-free jewelry retailer providing tourists with an extensive portfolio of fine jewelry and elegant timepieces. Sourcing from the world's largest and most important mines, while supporting ethical mine-to-market practices, the patented 90 faceted Crown of Light diamond cut and acclaimed Safi Kilima Tanzanite collection are both exclusive to the U.S. based fine jeweler. For more information about Diamonds International, visit www.diamondsinternational.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Safi Kilima Tanzanite

Samantha Eng

e. [email protected]

t. (516) 250-8914

SOURCE Diamonds International

Related Links

http://www.diamondsinternational.com


Egypt recently decided to return 13 old bank notes to China, the Beijing News reported on Sept 11. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Egypt recently decided to return 13 old bank notes to China, the Beijing News reported on Sept 11.

The Xinhua News Agency released photos of an exhibition of the same notes from Cairo.

Most of the bank notes are from the early 20th century, Shi Yuewen, the cultural counselor at the Chinese embassy in Cairo, told the media. They were found earlier this year by Egyptian officials.

The earliest note in the series is from 1901 and shows the image of a mining company in Northeast China. The other note was released by the Chinese Soviet Republic, a revolutionary government led by Mao Zedong in the 1930s, when the country was under Kuomintang rule.

"The items were found to have been illegally exported due to the absence of certification, and they deserved to be returned to China," Shi says.

The two countries held a transfer ceremony in late August, and Shi says the notes are on the way home.

In 2010, China and Egypt signed an agreement to jointly fight the smuggling of cultural relics. Returning the bank notes is the first time Egypt is giving Chinese cultural relics back to China.

China has similar agreements with 20 countries.

"The Egyptian cultural relic administration did a really good job with its fast action and firm attitude," Shi says.

Compared with the bank notes that were illegally exported in recent times, a more pressing issue is that many Chinese cultural relics have been lost over the decades.

Though an international convention was reached in 1970 to prevent the illicit import, export and transfer of ownership of cultural property, its validity for those taken away before that year is unclear.

"Both China and Egypt are victims of international crimes on cultural relics," Ali Ahmed Ali Farhan, the director-general of the repatriation department of the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, told the paper in an earlier interview.

"We face the same problem: It's difficult to repatriate objects stolen before 1970. We are ready to cooperate with China that shares the problem," he said.

"When we make allies, we can move together for the modification of current laws."
VANCOUVER, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - Bear Creek Mining Corporation (TSX Venture: BCM) ("Bear Creek" or the "Company") announces that the Tribunal hearing the Company's Santa Ana ICSID arbitration claim (the "Arbitration") has officially closed proceedings in the case. As such, no further testimony or exhibits will be submitted to the Tribunal by either the Company or the Republic of Peru and according to ICSID Arbitration Rules, the Tribunal now has 120 days in which to issue the final award.

"We are extremely pleased to know that the Tribunal will be in a position to issue its award in our Santa Ana Arbitration now that it has closed the proceedings," states Andrew Swarthout, President and CEO of the Company. "It has been a long and arduous process of negotiation and legal action to recover damages suffered by Bear Creek and its shareholders when the government of Peru issued Supreme Decree 032 in June 2011, extinguishing our investment in the Santa Ana Project. We maintain that Peru's actions constituted an unlawful expropriation, were unfair and unjustified, and not only damaged the Company but also the communities in the Santa Ana area by denying them significant opportunities that the development of this project would have brought. We and our legal counsel remain confident in the merits of our case and we look forward to the outcome of the Arbitration in the next few months."

Information related to the Arbitration, including procedural orders, written submissions and details regarding the hearings, is available to the public at https://icsid.worldbank.org/en/Pages/cases/casedetail.aspx?CaseNo=ARB/14/21 and a comprehensive summary of the history of the Santa Ana dispute is provided in the Company's Annual Information Form dated April 19, 2017 (available at https://bearcreekmining.com/investors/annual-information-form/.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Andrew Swarthout

President and CEO

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements related to: the belief that no further testimony or information will be requested by the Tribunal pursuant to the Arbitration; and, the timing and outcome of the Arbitration award decision. Certain of these forward-looking statements are contingent upon various assumptions, including the Company's and its legal counsel's understanding of ICSID Arbitration Rules. This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release and reflects current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and is based on the Company's or its consultants' beliefs at the time the statements were made, as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to them. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions on which they are based do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the expectations expressed in them. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates used to make such forward-looking statements do not occur and the additional risks described in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form. When relying on our forward-looking statements, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by the Company or on behalf of the Company, except as 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.

SOURCE Bear Creek Mining Corporation

Related Links

http://www.bearcreekmining.com


WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- ANALYTICS EXPERIENCE -- What drives customers to choose one retailer or telecommunications company over another? Brands no longer compete on price alone; the real differentiator is customer experience. To deliver outstanding customer experiences, brands are turning to analytics to better understand customer trends and preferences. With the help of SAS Customer Intelligence solutions on the SAS Platform, they're succeeding.

With more than 165 million mobile customers worldwide, Deutsche Telekom knows the value of exceeding customer expectations. For the brand's largest market, the company has chosen SAS Real-Time Decision Manager and other SAS Customer Intelligence solutions to help serve nearly 42 million mobile and 13 million broadband customers in Germany.

"The customer is always right. That's especially true for Deutsche Telekom, because in today's telecommunications market, the customer alone decides where they would like to make calls or conveniently access the internet," said Marion Hagen, Head of Customer Relationship Management at Telekom Deutschland GmbH. "With the aid of the SAS Customer Intelligence suite, we will soon be able to provide our customers personalized offers in real time across all the relevant communication channels."

"The many years of close collaboration of Deutsche Telekom's IT organization and its departments with SAS has laid the foundation for successful and effective projects that boost earnings," said Frank Kuehl, Head of MCS BA at Telekom Deutschland GmbH.

With advanced analytics technology from SAS, marketers from Deutsche Telekom are armed with the tools to make personalized recommendations to customers the moment they're needed. SAS believes these capabilities are why Forrester named it a leader in The Forrester Wave: Real-Time Interaction Management, Q2 2017. Per the report, "SAS earned near-perfect marks in this evaluation's 'decision arbitration' category for predictive and real-time analytics, AI, and offer optimization."

Forrester also noted real-time interaction management "depends on sophisticated decision engines that can integrate customer data, content and channels to orchestrate two-way, interactive customer experiences."

The tools to make next-best-action decisions are critical, yet according to a 2016 Forbes Insights study jointly conducted with SAS, only 36 percent of executives say they have attained real-time, highly integrated capabilities across all their customer channels. But for most companies, their data-driven efforts are already delivering benefits in two key areas: decision making, and more insights and engagement with customers. Analytics make these benefits possible.

"The common thread among thriving brands is that they're putting the customer first," said Michele Eggers, Senior Director of Customer Intelligence for SAS. "For marketers, this is all about how to engage customers in real time. Historical context is important, but the information learned in the moment is key to authentic engagement with a customer. SAS' vision for customer intelligence is to optimize marketing from top to bottom with premier results and unequaled customer experience in mind."

Today's announcement was made at the Analytics Experience conference in Washington, DC, a business technology conference presented by SAS that brings together more than 10,000 attendees on-site and online to share ideas on critical business issues.

About SAS

SAS is the leader in analytics. Through innovative analytics, business intelligence and data management software and services, SAS helps customers at more than 83,000 sites make better decisions faster. Since 1976, SAS has been giving customers around the world THE POWER TO KNOW.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries.  indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright  2017 SAS Institute Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE SAS

Related Links

http://www.sas.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Science of Identity Foundation has donated $2,500 to the Red Cross  and $2,500 to SEWA International for the Hurricane Harvey relief fund.

Founded in 1977 by Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda, the Science of Identity Foundation teaches ancient yoga wisdom, mantra meditation, and other techniques to help individuals achieve mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda has often said that the true yogi is one who cares about both the material and spiritual well-being of others.

Other yoga groups affiliated with Science of Identity Foundation, have also volunteered their services, either through monetary contributions, or on-the-ground relief efforts in south Texas.

About Science of Identity Foundation

Founded in 1977, Science of Identity Foundation teaches the practice of meditation and kirtanalong with timeless yoga wisdomto help individuals achieve greater spiritual, mental, and physical wellbeing. Passed down for centuries through an unbroken line of self-realized teachers, this ancient and authentic process of self-discovery can be practiced by anyone.

Official Websites

https://sif.yoga

http://www.scienceofidentityfoundation.org

http://www.scienceofidentityfoundation.com

Connect with Science of Identity Foundation

https://twitter.com/sif_yoga

https://www.instagram.com/scienceofidentity/

https://www.youtube.com/user/thescienceofidentity/

https://vimeo.com/scienceofidentity

https://www.facebook.com/thescienceofidentityfoundation

Media releases

http://www.prnewswire.com/news/science-of-identity-foundation

Media contact:

Jeannie Bishop

[email protected]

(808) 227-2609

SOURCE Science of Identity Foundation

Related Links

http://www.scienceofidentityfoundation.com


MERRIAM, Kan., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Seaboard Corporation (NYSE AMERICAN: SEB) ("Seaboard") and Groupe Mimran (the "Mimran Group") announce that they have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") whereby Seaboard intends to acquire the flour milling and associated businesses located in Senegal, Ivory Coast and Monaco (the "Business") of the Mimran Group. The proposed acquisition is subject to negotiation and execution of a definitive purchase agreement and finalization of Seaboard's due diligence.

Seaboard would operate the Business in its Commodity Trading and Milling Segment. The acquisition of the Business would increase the flour and feed milling capacity of its consolidated and non-consolidated businesses by approximately 15 percent to over 24,000 metric tons per day and its grain trading volume by approximately 9 percent to approximately 10.5 million metric tons per year.

Groupe Mimran is one of the leading agri-food groups in West-Africa, operating sugar refining, flour milling, and animal feed businesses. The Mimran Group was established over 60 years ago by the Mimran family, and its main companies in flour milling and sugar refining include Grands Moulins de Dakar ("GMD"), Grands Moulins d'Abidjan ("GMA"), and Compagnie Sucriere Senegalaise ("CSS"), respectively.

Seaboard is a publicly traded United States Fortune 500 Company, operating globally through a network of integrated industrial service oriented companies, with net sales of over $5 billion annually. Its main activities include processing and production of premium pork and turkey products, containerized shipping, and international grain processing and trading. Seaboard, founded nearly 100 years ago, is majority owned by the Bresky family.

Mr. David Mimran, President Directeur General of GMA and GMD commented:

"We are delighted to enter into this Memorandum of Understanding with Seaboard. An important consideration for us was that any new owner shares the same values and culture which we have instilled within our businesses over the years. Just like ourselves, Steven Bresky is the third generation of his family running a substantial business, and I very much look forward to assisting Mr. Bresky and his team in any way we can with respect to this new chapter in the development of the Business."

Mr. Steven Bresky, President and Chief Executive Officer of Seaboard, and Chairman of the Board commented:

"We are excited to further our investment in sub-Saharan Africa with this acquisition and believe the culture and operations will be a great fit with our existing structure. Seaboard has had commercial ties with the Mimran Group for almost 40 years and we look forward to integrating the Business into our existing trade strategy and expand our cargo and trade opportunities as a result of this transaction. We expect to continue to work closely together with the Mimran Group by leveraging our existing strengths into a better industrial and trade based business."

Cautionary Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Included in this press release and other information that we make publicly available from time to time are forward-looking management comments and other statements that reflect Seaboard's current outlook for its performance in future periods and its expectations for the possible consummation of the proposed acquisition. These statements include, among others, our plans for the integration of the Business into Seaboard's Commodity Trading and Milling Segment and the resulting impact on Seaboard's flour and feed milling capacity and its grain trading volume.

These statements and expectations are based on currently available competitive, financial and economic data, the information obtained from Seaboard's due diligence investigations to date and Seaboard's operating plans, and are subject to future events and uncertainties that could cause anticipated events not to occur or actual results to differ materially from historical or anticipated results. The forward-looking statements in this press release should be read in conjunction with the more detailed descriptions of risk factors located in Seaboard's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, Seaboard undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information or future events or developments.

SOURCE Seaboard Corporation

Related Links

http://www.seaboardcorp.com


SEATTLE, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Security Properties Residential has partnered with Move For Hunger, a national 5013 non-profit that provides hunger relief, to combat food insecurity in the Greater Puget Sound and throughout Washington State. This partnership adds 30 apartment communities to Move For Hunger's rapidly expanding network and will help feed families throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Move For Hunger

One out of five children in Washington State lives in a household that struggles to put food on the table. One out of seven people depend on supplemental nutrition programs (food stamps). Twenty percent of all Washingtonians rely on their local food bank. Yet, despite the ever growing need to combat food insecurity, 30-40% of food in the US goes uneaten. Security Properties Residential in partnership with Move For Hunger, aims to redirect this food away from the landfills and into the hands of those who need it the most.

Security Properties Residential recognized that when residents move, they tend to discard a staggering amount of non-perishable food. Move For Hunger aims to redirect this food to local food banks and community pantries. Every week, Move For Hunger team members collect the non-perishable food items from Security Properties communities and delivers them to local food banks.

In its first three months of operation in the region, Move For Hunger has collected more than 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food items in the Greater Seattle area alone. In the eight years since its founding, Move For Hunger has collected more than 8 million pounds of food, equating to nearly 7 million meals.

Annamarie Calkins, Director of Account and Business Operations at Security Properties Residential, said, "We are very excited to partner with Move for Hunger, a charity that is making a huge difference for those families in need right here in our own backyard. This is a very important cause, and one that we will continue to focus on as an organization."

Security Properties Residential believes that this partnership further reinforces its commitment to community service and philanthropy. This year alone, Security Properties Residential and its affiliates have donated more than $56,000 to housing and hunger related charities. Additionally, Security Properties residential will be participating in Move For Hunger's Thanksgiving food drive in November.

For more information, please contact www.moveforhunger.org,

About Security Properties Residential

Security Properties Residential is the affiliated property management firm of Security Properties, created to increase the value of its real estate holdings by more closely managing its assets. Operating throughout the Western U.S., Security Properties Residential is committed to delivering exceptional service to its apartment communities and residents. Services include property, construction and compliance management services that create positive living environments for residents and build value for clients. For more information, please visit www.securityproperties.com.

About Move for Hunger

Move For Hunger is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that aims to reduce food waste and feed families in need. By teaming up with relocation companies across the country, Move For Hunger is creating one of the nation's largest year-round service programs.

News media contact:

Mike Voorhees, 206.622.9900

[email protected]

SOURCE Security Properties Residential

Related Links

http://www.securityproperties.com


MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Menlo Therapeutics Inc. announced today the presentation of data from two phase 2 clinical studies of serlopitant at the 2017 EADV conference, the leading annual dermatology meeting in Europe. A 257-patient phase 2 trial (TCP-101) evaluating serlopitant for the treatment of chronic pruritus (itch) successfully met its primary efficacy endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant difference in pruritus change from baseline in subjects treated with 1 mg and 5 mg serlopitant compared with placebo (p<0.05 at weeks 4, 5, and 6). Additionally, a post-hoc analysis to evaluate time to onset demonstrated a statistically significant antipruritic benefit observed by day 3 of treatment with 1 mg and 5 mg of serlopitant compared with placebo (p<0.05).

The 257-patient multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, trial evaluated treatment with once-daily, orally administered serlopitant 0.25 mg, 1 mg, and 5 mg tablets compared with placebo for 6 weeks. The trial was conducted at 25 clinical study sites in the United States. All enrolled patients had severe pruritus as determined by a visual analog scale (VAS) pruritus score of 7cm at screening.

The study successfully demonstrated greater reduction of pruritus with serlopitant compared with control on the primary endpoint analysis for both the 1 mg and 5 mg dose groups (p<0.05 at weeks 4, 5, and 6). At week 6, the serlopitant 1 mg and 5 mg groups reported mean percent reduction from baseline VAS pruritus scores of 41.4% and 42.5%, respectively, as compared with 28.3% in the placebo-treated group. Statistically significant differences in change from baseline NRS pruritus scores (a secondary endpoint) were observed for both serlopitant 1 mg and 5 mg at weeks 4, 5, and 6 compared to placebo (p < 0.05). Serlopitant was well tolerated in the TCP-101 study. The majority of treatment-emergent adverse events were mild to moderate in severity.

The safety and efficacy results of this study were presented at the 26th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology conference by Prof. Dr. Sonja Stander, Professor of Dermatology and Neurodermatology, head of the Center for Chronic Pruritus of the University Hospital Munster, Germany. The early onset results of the study were presented by Paul Kwon, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Menlo Therapeutics.

In addition to the presentations on the 257-patient chronic pruritus study (TCP-101), results from a separate 127-subject phase 2 study (TCP-102) in patients with prurigo nodularis were presented by Prof. Dr. Sonja Stander. In this 127-patient study conducted at 15 sites in Germany, serlopitant 5 mg was superior to placebo in the primary endpoint assessment of change from baseline in average-itch VAS score at 8 weeks (p<0.001), and in multiple secondary pruritus endpoints, including NRS and worst-itch VAS scores.

Serlopitant was well tolerated in the TCP-102 study. The majority of treatment-emergent adverse events were mild to moderate in severity.

About Serlopitant

Serlopitant is a once-daily NK1 receptor antagonist being developed for the treatment of pruritus in multiple patient populations. Serlopitant is also being evaluated as a potential treatment for refractory chronic cough. Originally developed by Merck and licensed to Menlo Therapeutics in 2012, serlopitant has been evaluated in more than 1,000 human clinical trial subjects. Serlopitant is an investigational drug that is not currently approved for use in any indication.

About Prurigo Nodularis

Prurigo nodularis is a chronic dermatologic condition characterized by the presence of highly pruritic nodules and papules on the skin. Currently, there are no approved treatments for prurigo nodularis, and there is a high level of unmet need to treat the severe itching often experienced by these patients.

About Menlo Therapeutics Inc.

Menlo Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the development of serlopitant, a once-daily oral NK1 receptor antagonist, for the treatment of pruritus and refractory chronic cough. Menlo Therapeutics is funded by leading healthcare investors Vivo Capital (http://vivocapital.com), Presidio Partners (http://presidiopartners.com), Remeditex Ventures, LLC (http://www.remeditex.com), F-Prime Capital (http://fprimecapital.com), venBio (http://www.venbio.com), Novo Holdings A/S (http://www.novoholdings.dk), Rock Springs Capital (http://www.rockspringscapital.com), Aisling Capital (https://www.aislingcapital.com), and Bay City Capital (http://baycitycapital.com). More information is available at http://menlotherapeutics.com/.

SOURCE Menlo Therapeutics Inc.

Related Links

http://www.menlotherapeutics.com


Specifically, researchers found that, while control of aggressive behavior resides in same brain region in female and male mice, certain groups of brain cells in that region are organized differently. Two separate groups of cells were found to control sex and aggression in females, whereas circuits that encourage sex and aggression in males overlapped, say the study authors.

Knowing how aggressive behaviors are regulated is important because they are essential to survival in mice, as well as in humans, which have evolved to compete for food, mates, and territory, researchers say.

"Our study furthers our understanding of how these behaviors are organized differently in female and male mice brains," says study senior investigator Dayu Lin, PhD, an assistant professor at the Neuroscience Institute at NYU Langone Health.

Having a detailed breakdown of brain functions by gender, Lin adds, is a "fundamental step" toward any future attempt to develop drugs that suppress extreme aggression in humans. She says research on female aggressive behavior has lagged because, in most animals, males are the more aggressive gender.

Original research by Lin and her team, published in Nature in 2011, was among the first to trace the origins of male aggression in mice to a distinct part of the hypothalamus, the brain region that controls body temperature, hunger, sleep, and levels of many hormones. This key part, the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamus, or VMHvl, is located on the underside of the hypothalamus in mice and humans.

Other, recent studies that had blocked the action VMHvl cells in female mouse brains failed to trace the source of aggression control to the VMHvl. This blockade did stop all male and female attempts to mate, but did not reduce fighting among females, says Lin.

She says these other studies  having used a mouse type known for timidity  did not accurately replicate natural conditions. The current study was made more realistic by including a naturally aggressive mouse strain, as well as female virgin mice eager to fight off competitors for food, and new mothers anxious to protect their pups, say the authors.

The current study monitored the brain activity of the virgin and mother mice during fights with any female or male mouse that had entered their boxed space. The brains of all study mice were tested with electrical, genetic, or chemical probes that measured which nerve cells were turned on or off, and how this affected their fighting behavior. Researchers found that, under these more realistic conditions, turning VMHvl cells on or off did control whether female mice would fight.

Researchers also monitored in males and females the activity of individual cells in the VMHvl with proteins that enable them to interact with the sex hormones (e.g. estrogen receptor alpha). Such cells had previously been linked to fighting behaviors in male mice.

Experiments showed that VMHvl cells actively transmitting signals, or "firing," while females were mating were not the same cells firing when they were fighting. But in male mice, many of the same cells were firing during both activities. Further analysis showed that males had a mixed spatial distribution of the VMHvl cells involved in either behavior. In females, the cells involved in fighting were arranged along the center of the VMHvl, while those involved in mating were distributed along its borders.

Lin says her laboratory next plans to fine-tune tools for experimenting separately on the female mating and fighting VMHvl cells. She says her team also has plans to investigate the biological origins of these cells to determine how the female nerve circuity develops in contrast to the circuitry in males.

Funding support for the studies was provided by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) grants R01 MH101377 and R21 MH105774. Additional funding support was provided by the Mathers Foundation, Irma T. Hirschl Trust, Ester A. and Joseph Klingenstein Fund, Whitehall Foundation, Sloan Foundation, and McKnight Foundation.

Besides Lin, other NYU Langone scientists involved in this research were co-lead investigators Koichi Hashikawa, PhD, and Yoshiko Hashikawa, PhD; Robin Tremblay, PhD; James Feng, PhD; Alexander Sobol, PhD; Walter Piper, PhD; and Bernardo Rudy, MD, PhD. Additional research support was provided by Jiaxing Zhang, PhD, at Xiamen University in China; and by Hyosang Lee, PhD, at the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in Korea.

Media Inquiries:

David March

212-404-3528

[email protected]

SOURCE NYU Langone Health
SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Stamford American International School (Stamford American), a well-established international school in Singapore within the Cognita Schools Group, today celebrated the grand opening of their world-class Early Learning Village that is 100% educational by design entirely for children aged 18 months to six years old  a world first of this scale for early years education.

The Village is a compelling proposition for Singapore as it makes a ground-breaking addition to the nation's existing world-class education landscape, which according to independent reports from The Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa), has the highest achieving students in international education. While Singapore not only offers an enviable safe lifestyle, the education is world-class at both the local level and international level. For families considering Singapore as a destination of choice, it's through leading international schools like Stamford American, that children of all ages are provided with incredible opportunities to broaden their horizons culturally as well as academically. Stamford American is proudly an IB World School and caters to a community of over 70 nations across two bespoke campuses.

The incredible Early Learning Village is their newest campus addition for the Brand which signals their unwavering desire to innovate and stay at the forefront of education for the children in their care.

During the opening ceremony, Michael Drake, CEO of Cognita Asia said, "The Early Learning Village is the product of an exciting collaboration with educational experts. We are proud to offer an unparalleled Early Learning Village that reflects our modern and innovative approach, inspired by Reggio Emilia principles, at a scale unlike anywhere else in the world for children in their vital pre-school years."

The world-famous Reggio Emilia philosophy incorporates the environment as a third teacher1 in its architecture, interior design and curriculum, so the Village represents a revolutionary step in early childhood education where this age group is the first and only thought. The Village is designed by award-winning Bogle Architects in collaboration with Gary Moore, Professor of Environmental Behavioural studies at Sydney University in NSW Australia, and Rosie Long, a Reggio Emilia Early Years Education specialist from the UK, to include specific architectural and design elements that elevate the early learning experience.

Among the facilities in the Village are various multifunctional spaces thoughtfully designed with young children in mind, such as a covered swimming pool which adapts to the competencies of the little swimmers  10 short horizontal lanes for beginners, and four longer lanes lengthwise for more confident swimmers, and a large indoor, air-conditioned gymnasium for their acclaimed SMART Steps and Perceptual Motor Program specialist physical education classes, plus stunning specialist classrooms with large child-height round windows, allowing natural light to come in. In addition, there are 6 tailored sensorial outdoor playgrounds with UV cover, which allows the children to spark imagination and play at every corner of the play area, rain or shine.

"We understand the importance of early years education and have created inspired spaces for the benefit of our young students and also to complement the school's distinct curriculum and character," Drake added.

The early learning curriculum at the Village is grounded in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP) integrated with new units of inquiry incorporating STEAMInn - Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Innovation. We believe that children learn best through hands on experiences and with this in mind, we developed an education model which combines all 6 subject investigations where every day moments are aligned to essential discovery learning. This is in addition to the well-established specialist programs of daily Mandarin or Spanish and Bilingual English/Mandarin Program and weekly lessons of the world-renowned Suzuki violin.

Each corner of the Village caters to the growing and developing child, with tailored discovery spaces attached to every classroom which empower young learners to extend their self-directed learning. Their learning and fun also reaches beyond the classroom where they can choose from specialty Co-Curricular Activities such as gymnastics, ballet, swimming, sports, drama and language-learning, amongst many others.

-END-

For media queries, please contact:

Andrea Romero

Ogilvy Public Relations

Public Relations for The Early Learning Village

T: 212 880 5389 / 917 679 5826

Email: [email protected]

About Stamford American International School

With an ethos for educating children to achieve more than they believe they can, Stamford American International School has established itself as the first and only school in Singapore to offer both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and American curriculums for children aged 18 months to 18 years.

As one of the leading US-based schools following the Northern Hemisphere academic calendar, Stamford American integrates the rigorous American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards with the PYP, MYP and DP courses within the IB framework. Students enjoy the unparalleled opportunity of obtaining Advanced Placement credits from Grade 10 which provides them with the option to graduate in Grade 12 with the IB Diploma, or High School Diploma with Advanced Placement credits, or both, preparing students for acceptance to leading universities worldwide.

For additional information about the Stamford American International School:

T: (65) 6653 7907

Website: www.sais.edu.sg

1 Reggio Emilia principles identify three teachers of children: adults, their peers and their physical environment.

SOURCE Stamford American International School

Related Links

https://www.sais.edu.sg


CRESTVIEW HILLS, Ky., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, September 15, 2017, the new owner of the Knoxville Marriott, iSquare Management, falsely accused Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC of violating the law by not paying employees of the Knoxville Marriott their final paycheck on September 15, 2017.

For more than a year, since the loan on the Knoxville Marriott matured in August 2016, all of the money from hotel operations has been paid directly to the lender, not Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC, which has simply managed the hotel on behalf of the lender.

Since August 2016, by agreement between the lender and Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC, the lender has periodically released enough of the cash from hotel operations to Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC to pay the payroll for the Knoxville Marriott employees and to pay other hotel expenses.

Under that agreement, from August 2, 2017 when iSquare purchased the loan to September 5, 2017, when they bought the hotel, iSquare Management collected around $2.5 million in cash. Of that collected revenue, iSquare Management released approximately $800,000 to allow Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC to pay operating expenses in August 2017, including payroll expenses prior to the final payroll.

Per the agreement and iSquare Management's adherence to it in August 2017, Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC expected that iSquare Management would release money from the hotel's operations in time to make the final payroll on September 15, 2017, even though Tennessee law allows for an employee's final paycheck to be paid within 21 days of the end of employment.

But that is not what happened. Inexplicably, iSquare Management refused  and continues to refuse  to release the funds, despite the net cash flow they received from the hotel of $1.7 million in their first month of ownership of the loan.

To make matters worse, instead of explaining the whole truth to its new employees, instead of revealing to the media why these employees were not receiving a paycheck on September 15, 2017, iSquare Management pinned its failure to fund the payroll on Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC.

Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC appreciates the dedication and years of service of its Knoxville Marriott employees, and it will pursue the release of the funds from iSquare Management. One way or another, Columbia Properties Knoxville, LLC will see that its former employees are paid within the time provided by Tennessee law.

Media Contact: Jackie Reau, 1-513-9294263, [email protected]

SOURCE Columbia Properties Knoxville
TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynamic Communities, the supporting organization behind the Microsoft Dynamics User Groups (D365UG/AXUG, D365UG/CRMUG, GPUG, NAVUG, DSLUG, PUG), has united hundreds of female tech experts in its Special Interest Group (SIG), the Women in Dynamics SIG. The group connects women across all User Groups, creating a diverse pool of female-powered expertise and experience.

"It's a place where women can come together with other like-minded women to connect, learn from, and support each other," says Kelly Kane, active SIG Leader for the Women in Dynamics SIG and Microsoft's first female user-company recipient of the Microsoft MVP for Microsoft Dynamics AX.

Kane recalls feeling "floored" after attending a Dynamics-related Tech conference in early 2017 that drew a crowd of 1500 men and only 100 women. Dynamic Communities hopes this year's annual Nashville Summit conference will reflect the growth of the Women in Dynamics SIG with more women in attendance this October.

"As a child, I remember watching Wonder Woman on TV and wanting to be a strong woman just like her. As I grew older, my ideas around being a strong woman have changed," said Kane.

The Women in Dynamics SIG strives to engage with its members using content that relates to women. In 2017, topics have included "Negotiation," "How to be Assertive Without Being Aggressive," and "Dealing with Negative Feedback" just to name a few. Members from around the world learn and discuss via forum discussions, webinars, a book club, and virtual roundtable discussions. The SIG was launched in 2015 and had 24 members that year; it has grown exponentially and today has over 192 active members.

"I see that there are so many ways a woman can be strong without having an invisible jet and a lasso of truth. Part of being a strong woman is knowing what makes you thrive, and one thing I have noticed is that women thrive when they are part of a tribe."

About Dynamic Communities

Dynamic Communities is a business management organization that develops and supports technology-centric user groups  providing necessary resources and business operations such as staff, systems and event production. Dynamic Communities fosters the development, growth and engagement of volunteer-driven user groups that provide hubs for like-minded technology users to exchange knowledge on how to best maximize product performance.

Kelly Kane is on the D365UG/AXUG Board of Advisors and serves as the D365UG/AXUG Kentucky Chapter Leader and D365UG/AXUG SIG Leader for Women in Dynamics. Kelly was awarded the D365UG/AXUG All-Star Award and Chapter Leader of the Year. Kelly is also the first female Microsoft MVP for a Dynamics AX user company and is hoping to see more women given this honor.

SOURCE Dynamic Communities

Related Links

http://www.dynamiccommunities.com


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Adweek announced the 2017 Media Plan of the Year (MPOY) Awards, honoring Lexus and Team One, Publicis Groupe's leading premium and luxury brand agency, for "Best Use of Social" in campaigns spending less than $500,000 for the "Lexus RC Real-Time Build." The annual competition celebrates the most innovative media plans and executions from around the globe.

The campaign, which aimed to create real-time engagement around the 2017 Lexus RC performance coupe among auto enthusiasts, turned to Facebook Live, using it in a way that had never been done before. During a live 10-hour broadcast, Lexus fans were able to vote online for modifications to the RC, customizing the car in front of their eyes. At a time when most automakers were using the platform for 15-minute reveals of vehicle launches, Team One and Lexus took it to another other level, rallying the Lexus enthusiast community and resulting in a 10,000% increase in Facebook comments compared to the Lexus daily average.

"Lexus is a progressive marketer that aims to live on the leading edge of media and technology," said Julie Michael, President of Team One. "We have built our agency around helping our clients create sublime digital experiences, which often lead to them being recognized for these types of industry firsts."

The Adweek MPOY Awards are chosen by an elite jury composed of top industry media execs throughout the advertising and media industry.

For the full list of the 2017 Adweek MPOY awards, please visit: https://www.mediaplanoftheyear.com/

About Team One

Team One is Publicis Groupe's fully integrated premium and luxury brand agency. Their purpose is to help modern luxury brands thrive in the modern media ecosystem. Founded in 1987, Team One has 500+ employees based in six North American offices, including their Los Angeles headquarters, Dallas, New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Current clients include Lexus, The Ritz-Carlton, Dacor (Samsung), Indian Motorcycle, HSBC Premier, Icelandic Glacial Water, PIMCO and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. Visit Team One at TeamOne-USA.com, on Facebook at Facebook.com/TeamOneUSA, or follow the agency on Twitter at @TeamOneUSA.

About Lexus

Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 238 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With five models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers six F SPORT models and two F performance models. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.

SOURCE Team One

Related Links

https://www.mediaplanoftheyear.com


BEAVERTON, Ore., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Tektronix, a leading worldwide provider of measurement solutions, today introduced the new DPO7OE1, a calibrated optical probe and analysis software for use with real-time oscilloscopes. It is optical reference receiver (ORR) compliant for 28-GBaud PAM4 applications and supports IEEE/OIF-CEI standard specific measurements. This new solution complements Tektronix' optical PAM4 analysis tools for sampling oscilloscopes, giving design teams efficient test solutions for all stages of the optical transmitter workflow.

The new Tektronix DPO7OE1, a calibrated optical probe and analysis software for use with real-time oscilloscopes, is an optical reference receiver (ORR) compliant for 28-GBaud PAM4 applications and supports IEEE/OIF-CEI standard specific measurements. This new offering allows R&D and system engineers to more easily troubleshoot their optical devices by adding powerful debug capabilities.

Based on real-time oscilloscopes like the DPO70000SX, this new offering allows R&D and system engineers to more easily troubleshoot their optical devices by adding powerful debug capabilities: software clock recovery for PAM4 and NRZ, triggering, error detection, and capture time correlated or contiguous record of a signal.

One company that understands the value of an optical PAM4 solution based on real-time oscilloscopes is Maxim Integrated, a manufacturer of high-speed, low-power optical devices for data center applications.

"Advanced optical modulation formats like PAM4 require system testing with both sampling and real-time oscilloscopes," said Jan Filip director of advanced R&D at Maxim Integrated. "The new real-time oscilloscope-based solution allows us to provide critical debugging feedback to the development teams and to emulate advanced optical receiver systems using offline Matlab algorithms. Tektronix offers the best performing real-time oscilloscope detection solution to our optical and PAM4 test requirements and is our strategic partner for advanced measurement platforms."

Applications & Analysis Packages

The DPO7OE1 offers 33 GHz optical bandwidth for 28-GBaud PAM4 debug applications. It can also be used for legacy NRZ applications. Analysis packages support standard optical measurements including ER, AOP, OMA, eye height and eye width as well as PAM4 IEEE and OIF-CEI standard specific measurements including TDECQ.

Pricing & Availability

The DPO7OE1 calibrated optical probe and PAM4 analysis packages are available to order now. Pricing starts at $35,000 US MSRP. For more information, please visit: https://www.tek.com/dpo7oe1

Wondering what else Tektronix is up to? Check out the Tektronix Bandwidth Banter blog and stay up to date on the latest news from Tektronix on Twitter and Facebook.

About Tektronix

Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Tektronix delivers innovative, precise and easy-to-operate test, measurement and monitoring solutions that solve problems, unlock insights and drive discovery. Tektronix has been at the forefront of the digital age for over 70 years. Join us on the journey of innovation at TEK.COM.

Tektronix is a registered trademark of Tektronix, Inc. All other trade names referenced are the service marks, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

SOURCE Tektronix
ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Trust for Public Land (TPL) announces Cox Enterprises as the presenting sponsor for its "Urban Nights, City Lights" event.

On Saturday, November 4, The Trust for Public Land will host its 9th annual Celebration of Land, where it will honor Ed McBrayer as its 2017 Conservation Trailblazer. In 1991, Ed helped form the PATH Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission of connecting the Atlanta region with a network of trails for commuting and recreating. Under his leadership, PATH has built over 235 miles of trails throughout the region. Cox Enterprises' Chairman Jim Kennedy is a previous recipient of the award.

The Trust for Public Land's mission is to create parks and to protect land for people ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. As someone dedicated to connectivity in Atlanta and beyond, Ed is a natural recipient of this notable award. By making Atlanta a safer and more connected city for everyone to enjoy, his work through PATH aligns directly with The Trust for Public Land's mission.

Cox Enterprises' support of the "Urban Nights, City Lights" is a part of the company's national Cox Conserves sustainability program that is celebrating its 10th anniversary. This support builds upon Cox's national environmental partnership with The Trust for Public Land, where the company provides visibility and awareness for the Parks for People initiative, as well as partnering on the Cox Conserves Heroes program. Cox Conserves Heroes honors environmental volunteers across the nation who are creating and preserving outdoor spaces.

To learn more about the Trust for Public Land initiatives in Georgia, visit www.tpl.org/our-work/georgia and for ticket and sponsor information about "Urban Lights, City Nights", visit www.501auctions.com/tpl.

SOURCE The Trust for Public Land

Related Links

http://www.tpl.org


RC17-234 intersected three mineralized intervals totaling 83.8 meters averaging 1.10% copper;

RC17-235W intersected two mineralized intervals totaling 33 meters averaging 0.90% copper; and

RC17-236 intersected two mineralized intervals totaling 116.4 meters averaging 1.06% copper.

Results are presented in Table 1 at a cutoff grade of 0.5% copper to be comparable with previous drill results released by the Company. Results at a more selective higher grade cutoff of 1.0% copper are also presented in Table 2 to show locally higher grade intervals.

Trilogy Metals is executing this US$10 million program at Bornite, which has been funded by South32 Limited per the agreement announced on April 10, 2017 (https://Trilogy PR April 19 2017). This year's exploration at Bornite was approved by a joint Trilogy-South32 Technical Committee and is focused on drilling the extensions of mineralization last drilled by the Company in 2013.

Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse, President and CEO of Trilogy Metals commented, "The initial three step-out holes at Bornite demonstrate that high grade copper mineralization continues to the north and east of previously drilled resources as shown in Figure 1. Specifically, these three holes offset mineralization previously intersected in hole RC13-224 which intersected 236-meters of 1.9% copper. We are also seeing significant cobalt mineralization occurring as the mineral carrollite and associated with one or more stages of pyrite  particularly in the higher grade copper zones with bornite and chalcocite. More geochemical and metallurgical work is planned for the cobalt. As the Grade x Thickness Map shows in Figure 2, we have now traced the mineralized system over an area measuring approximately 2,500 meters by 1,500 meters within which we are consistently intersecting zones 100 to 200 meters thick and containing 1% to 3% copper. Our drill program is demonstrating that the Bornite mineralized system remains strong and shows no signs of letting up as we continue to drill on trend to the north and east. In addition, we are starting to see new structural trends and controls on the axis of high grade mineralization along a northwest vector. A recently completed detailed Gravity Survey is showing some very promising results and we will be integrating that information into our future targeting. We have six more holes to report on between now and mid-November and we have added a fourth drill rig to complete our planned program. We will continue to report results as they become available."

Table 1

0.5% Cu Cut-off with maximum 5m internal waste - Minimum 5m interval

Hole From (m) To (m) Length Cu (pct) Co (ppm) Ag (ppm) RC17-0234 935.28 956.31 21.03 1.29 81.8 0.31 978.50 1005.31 26.81 1.44 96.5 0.13 1011.00 1047.00 36.00 0.72 70.1 0.10 Total of 83.84 1.10 81.5 0.16 RC17-0235w 661.84 667.97 6.13 0.69 109.6 0.15 892.23 919.10 26.87 0.94 72.8 1.47 RC17-0236 720.79 747.89 27.10 0.80 103.4 0.72 777.88 867.18 89.30 1.13 211.2 0.60 Total of 116.40 1.06 186.1 0.63

Table 2

1.0% Cu Cut-off with maximum 5m internal waste - Minimum 4m interval

Hole From (m) To (m) Length Cu (pct) Co (ppm) Ag (ppm) RC17-0234 945.22 954.74 9.52 1.96 150.41 0.296 978.50 982.99 4.49 5.49 397.01 0.582 1037.00 1047.00 10.00 1.01 92.14 0.09 Total of 24.01 2.22 172.3 0.26 RC17-0235w 901.02 919.10 18.08 1.06 87.49 1.64 RC17-0236 735.62 741.00 5.38 1.41 137.95 0.966 796.29 802.09 5.80 1.04 198.63 0.685 822.05 865.78 43.73 1.72 328.46 0.869 Total of 54.91 1.62 296.1 0.86

Bornite Resource

Based on the Company's previous three field seasons of exploration drilling and re-assaying of previously drilled core from Kennecott, the Company announced an updated resource estimate for the Bornite project of 5.5 Billion pounds of copper inferred resource at a grade of 2.26% Cu and 913 Million pounds of copper indicated resource at a grade of 1.02% Cu and filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report in 2016. See the Company's press releases dated April 19, 2016 (http://Trilogy PR April 19 2016) and the Company's press release on the filing of the updated NI43-101 Technical Report for Bornite on May 16, 2016 (https://Trilogy PR May 16 2016).

QAQC Program

The drill program and sampling protocol were managed by qualified persons employed by Trilogy Metals. The diamond drill holes were typically collared at HQ diameter drill core and reduced to NQ diameter during the drilling process. Samples were collected using a 0.2-meter minimum length, 2.5-meter maximum length and 1.7-meter average sample length. Drill core recovery averaged 91% overall and 94% within the prospective lithologies. Three quality control samples (one blank, one standard and one duplicate) were inserted into each batch of 20 samples. The drill core was sawn, with half sent to ALS Minerals in Fairbanks for sample preparation and the sample pulps forwarded to ALS's North Vancouver facility for analysis. ALS Minerals in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada, is a facility certified as ISO 9001:2008 and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025:2005 from the Standards Council of Canada. Trilogy Metals will submit 5% of the assay intervals from prospective lithologies to an independent check assay lab.

Qualified Persons

Andrew W. West, P.Geo., Exploration Manager for Trilogy Metals Inc., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. West has reviewed the technical information in this news release and approves the disclosure contained herein.

About Trilogy Metals

Trilogy Metals Inc. is a metals exploration company focused on exploring and developing the Ambler mining district located in northwestern Alaska. It is one of the richest and most-prospective known copper-dominant districts located in one of the safest geopolitical jurisdictions in the world. It hosts world-class polymetallic VMS deposits that contain copper, zinc, lead, gold and silver, and carbonate replacement deposits which have been found to host high grade copper mineralization. Exploration efforts have been focused on two deposits in the Ambler mining district - the Arctic VMS deposit and the Bornite carbonate replacement deposit. Both deposits are located within the Company's land package that spans approximately 143,000 hectares. The Company has an agreement with NANA Regional Corporation, Inc., a Regional Alaska Native Corporation that provides a framework for the exploration and potential development of the Ambler mining district in cooperation with local communities. Our vision is to develop the Ambler mining district into a premier North American copper producer.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, the future operating or financial performance of the Company, planned expenditures and the anticipated activity at the UKMP Projects, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding perceived merit of properties; exploration plans and budgets; mineral reserves and resource estimates; work programs; capital expenditures; timelines; strategic plans; market prices for precious and base metals; or other statements that are not statements of fact. Forward-looking statements involve various 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 uncertainties involving the need for additional financing to explore and develop properties and availability of financing in the debt and capital markets; uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and geological tests and the estimation of reserves and resources; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the development and operation of properties as well as the construction of the access road; the need to obtain permits and governmental approvals; risks of construction and mining projects such as accidents, equipment breakdowns, bad weather, non-compliance with environmental and permit requirements, unanticipated variation in geological structures, metal grades or recovery rates; unexpected cost increases, which could include significant increases in estimated capital and operating costs; fluctuations in metal prices and currency exchange rates; and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2016 filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and in other Company reports and documents filed with applicable securities regulatory authorities from time to time. The Company's forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

Cautionary Note to United States Investors

The Bornite Technical Report have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Unless otherwise indicated, all resource and reserve estimates included in this press release have been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators which establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and resource and reserve information contained therein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the term "resource" does not equate to the term "reserves". Under U.S. standards, mineralization may not be classified as a "reserve" unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made. The SEC's disclosure standards normally do not permit the inclusion of information concerning "measured mineral resources", "indicated mineral resources" or "inferred mineral resources" or other descriptions of the amount of mineralization in mineral deposits that do not constitute "reserves" by U.S. standards in documents filed with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. U.S. investors should also understand that "inferred mineral 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, estimated "inferred mineral resources" may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an "inferred mineral resource" exists or is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by SEC standards as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. The requirements of NI 43-101 for identification of "reserves" are also not the same as those of the SEC, and reserves reported by the Company in compliance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as "reserves" under SEC standards. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth in this press release or the Bornite Technical Report may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.

SOURCE Trilogy Metals Inc.

Related Links

www.trilogymetals.com


With the launch of First Play, TuneIn enables podcast super fans to hear episodes early from a selection of more than 30 podcasts, produced by the most popular podcast creators. Participating shows will debut their early releases throughout the initial run of the program, concluding December 31st.

The podcast industry has boomed in the last year, with its monthly audience growing 21% in the U.S. (from 57 million to 67 million people), according to Edison Research and Triton Digital's annual Infinite Dial Report, with no signs of this engagement slowing down. Podcast creators continue to defy creative bounds, building new ways to experience audio content, which avid listeners are eager to consume. Through this program, TuneIn aims to serve listeners who want even more from their favorite shows.

Between TuneIn's breadth of content offerings and wide distribution network, this program exposes new audiences to great podcast content before anywhere else. More people are discovering podcasts than ever before, and TuneIn is uniquely positioned to support that interest with its integrations with connected devices, such as Amazon Alexa-enabled speakers.

"This special offering provides fans what they want most: the ability to get their favorite shows first and early," said TuneIn Chief Content Officer Kevin Straley. "We're proud to be releasing such a robust group of partners with fresh new content at a time when podcast listening is at a record high."

The First Play line up can be found at TuneIn.com including:

WNYC Studios: Spooked , a new series from Snap Judgment that is No. 1 on the U.S. charts

, a new series from that is No. 1 on the U.S. charts Gimlet Media: Uncivil , a new series

, a new series HowStuffWorks: BrainStuff, Ridiculous History and TechStuff Daily Digest

and Wondery: Sword & Scale, I Hate My Boss, Hollywood and Crime, Real Crime Profiles, Tides of History and Something You Should Know

and StarTalk: StarTalk Radio, StarTalk All-Stars and StarTalk Playing with Science

and Feral Audio: Harmontown , Dumb People Town, Natch Beaut and Drinky Fun Time

, and ESPN Radio: Cinephile: The Adnan Virk Movie Podcast, Doubletruck Stories, Free Cookies and That's What She Said with Sarah Spain

and Parcast: Serial Killers, Unsolved Murders and Jack the Ripper

and Tenderfoot TV: Sworn

ABC Radio: 10% Happier with Dan Harris , No Limits with Rebecca Jarvis , Motivated, Uncomfortable

MRW Productions: The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe

Anonymous: Casefile True Crime

The Wall Street Journal: Secrets of Wealthy Women

Dr. Robert Puff , Ph.D.: The Happiness Podcast

, Ph.D.: Red Bull Music Academy: Couch Wisdom on the Red Bull Radio

As one of the new series to debut on the First Play lineup, Chris Giliberti, head of multiplatform at Gimlet Media, shares, "We are excited to partner with TuneIn to give its listeners exclusive early access to Gimlet's newest show, Uncivil, via TuneIn's First Play. Uncivil is a phenomenal, timely and important show and we can't wait for audiences to enjoy it."

Glynn Washington, host of WNYC Studios' Spooked, is thrilled to be one of the first featured this week. "Debuting Spooked with TuneIn's First Play is a great way to deliver supernatural thrills," he says. "But don't turn out the lights!"

"We're delighted to learn that StarTalk would be among the first podcasts to be featured in TuneIn's exclusive "First Play" programming," says Neil deGrasse Tyson, host of StarTalk. "Our running goal has always been to broaden and deepen the public's access to science in our lives through our informative and entertaining portfolio of celebrity guests and comedic banter. Looks like TuneIn has a recipe that will make that happen as never before."

This year, TuneIn has made significant investments to elevate itself as a premier destination for both podcasters and podcast listeners. According to internal data, TuneIn reports that they've had 27 million listening hours of podcast content so far in 2017, and 27% growth in podcast listening year-over-year from 2016 to 2017.

TuneIn brings the widest collection of sports, music, news, podcasts and audiobooks into one app. The platform features live and on-demand audio through partnerships with world class content providers including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, ESPN Radio, ABC Radio, CNN, MSNBC/CNBC, Fox News Talk and BBC Radio.

About TuneIn

Bringing together a wide collection of sports, music, news, podcasts, and audiobooks  including live, on-demand and original content  TuneIn lets people find what they love while helping them discover new things. TuneIn has grown to become one of the most widely used streaming audio platforms in the world with 75 million monthly active users. TuneIn has over 120,000 owned & operated and partner radio stations and more than 5.7 million on-demand programs stemming from every continent, and is available for free across 200 platforms and connected devices. TuneIn Premium subscribers can listen to the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, over 90,000 audiobooks and commercial-free music stations. With venture funding from Comcast Ventures, IVP, Sequoia Capital, Causeway, General Catalyst Partners, Icon Ventures, and Marker LLC, TuneIn is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

SOURCE TuneIn

Related Links

http://www.tunein.com


HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Financial and investing challenges facing members of the military, their families, and veterans were the subject of a free "Making $ense of Finance" conference on Saturday at Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Military Finance Alliance.

"The men and women in uniform, along with their families, face many challenges that are often more difficult during deployments and immediately after returning. The information provided today is a critical supplement to military resiliency training," Brigadier General (Ret) John DiNapoli, president of Spencer Ryan, LLC and keynote speaker, said. "These topics, presented by unbiased sources, help to reduce short term financial stress and assist military families in building long term financial well-being."

Attendees at the conference were provided with tools and information on the following subjects:

How service members can make informed decisions when it comes to saving and investing

Review of the new Thrift Savings Plan retirement system for members of the military

Detecting and avoiding military focused financial scams

Challenges of household budgeting for families while a service member is deployed

How service members can learn to build and manage their credit

"The better informed the men and women who serve our country and Pennsylvania are about their finances and investing in their futures, the easier it becomes for them to protect and grow their money," said Secretary of Banking and Securities Robin L. Wiessmann. "Whether deployed or at home, service members and their families face unique financial circumstances or may be specifically targeted by scam artists with clever come-ons. The tools they leave with today can help secure their financial futures."

Working with Kiplinger's Personal Finance, the Department of Banking and Securities has made available free the "Financial Field Manual: A Personal Finance Guide for Military Families," which provides information and insight into these challenges. This publication can be found online at: http://bit.ly/2y45rmV

"Making $ense of Finance" was made possible through the Pennsylvania Military Finance Alliance, a cooperative effort of the PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the PA Department of Banking and Securities, the PA Office of Attorney General, PA Military OneSource, Better Business Bureau, Liberty USO, Army Community Service, PA National Guard, and Advantage Credit Counseling Services.

Members of the public with questions or complaints about financial products and services can call 1-800-PA-BANKS (or 1-800-600-0007). To learn more about financial and investing matters, visit PA Investor Education on Facebook and @PAFinancialReg on Twitter.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Ed Novak, Department of Banking and Securities, 717-783-4721

Joan Nissley, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, 717-861-8720

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities; Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Related Links

https://www.pa.gov/


BASEL, Switzerland, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Urovant Sciences, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for urologic conditions, today announced the appointment of Keith A. Katkin as Chief Executive Officer.

"I am excited to build Urovant into a leading company in the field of urology," said Mr. Katkin. "Vibegron is a promising drug with strong Phase 2 and Phase 3 data. I look forward to rapidly advancing the development of vibegron including the initiation of a confirmatory phase 3 pivotal trial in the months to come."

"I'd like to extend a warm welcome to Keith," said Vivek Ramaswamy, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Roivant Sciences. "His track record of building successful companies and his passion for delivering new medicines to patients makes me excited tPhoto - http://www.urovant.como see him take charge as the leader of one of our newest Vants."

Mr. Katkin recently served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Avanir Pharmaceuticals from 2007 to 2016, where he oversaw the company's sale to Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Mr. Katkin joined Avanir in 2005 as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing and was responsible for developing and executing the corporate strategy that led to the approval and commercialization of NUEDEXTA.

Prior to Avanir, Mr. Katkin served as Vice President, Commercial Development for Peninsula Pharmaceuticals, Inc. where he played a key role in the concurrent initial public offering and sale of the company to Johnson and Johnson. Earlier in his career, Mr. Katkin held leadership roles at InterMune, Amgen, and Abbott Laboratories. Mr. Katkin earned his B.S. in Business and Accounting from Indiana University and his M.B.A. from the Anderson School at UCLA. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.

About Urovant Sciences

Urovant Sciences is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for urologic conditions. Urovant's lead therapeutic candidate is vibegron, a potent and selective 3-adrenergic agonist being developed for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency. Urovant has licensed global rights, excluding Japan and certain Asian territories, for the development and commercialization of vibegron (formerly MK-4618) from Merck. Urovant intends to develop treatments for additional urologic diseases. For more information, please visit urovant.com.

About Roivant Sciences

Roivant is dedicated to transformative innovation in healthcare. Roivant focuses on realizing the full potential of promising biomedical research by developing and commercializing novel therapies across diverse therapeutic areas. We partner with innovative biopharmaceutical companies and academic institutions to ensure that important medicines are rapidly developed and delivered to patients.

We advance our drug pipelines through wholly- or majority-owned subsidiary companies, including Axovant (neurology), Myovant (women's health and endocrine diseases), Dermavant (dermatology), Enzyvant (rare diseases), and Urovant (urology). Roivant also plans to launch new companies operating outside of traditional biopharmaceutical development. Roivant's long-range mission is to reduce the time and cost of developing and delivering new medicines for patients. For more information, please visit roivant.com.

Related Links

http://www.urovant.com

http://www.roivant.com

Media Contact:

Paul Davis

Roivant Sciences, Inc.

[email protected]

Office: +1 (646) 495-5310

SOURCE Urovant Sciences

Related Links

http://www.urovant.com


PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: VAR) today announced the newest release of its treatment planning system, Eclipse 15.5. This new release has received FDA 510(k) clearance, and incorporates several new treatment capabilities that offer clinicians the ability to create more precise treatment plans quickly. Eclipse 15.5 also provides treatment planning support for Varian's HyperArc HDRT, a new type of radiosurgery treatment.

Eclipse 15.5 features MCO, which allows clinicians to explore what happens when different clinical criteria are varied; such as the degree to which particular organs are spared versus coverage of the targeted tumor. MCO leverages both RapidPlan and the existing optimization workflows to expedite finding the optimal plan for a given patient with minimal trial and error iterations.

For efficient treatment planning and automated delivery of complex stereotactic radiosurgery, Eclipse 15.5 now supports HyperArc. This new type of radiosurgery treatment is designed to capitalize on the unique capabilities of Varian's TrueBeam and EDGE treatment platforms. HyperArc treatments exploit specific capabilities of the platforms to deliver more compact radiation doses that can fully saturate a targeted tumor and "fall off" sharply outside the target zone, minimizing and, where necessary, even eliminating dose to specific organs requiring more protection.

To increase the speed of plan development, Eclipse 15.5 offers Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) support. This enables clinicians to utilize GPU technology to optimize and quickly calculate the dose with Eclipse, including IMRT optimization and the intermediate dose calculation within the optimization.

"With Eclipse 15.5 we have seen an instant improvement in plan quality when using MCO, across a wide range of treatment sites," said Suzanne Currie, clinical scientific lead at Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre. "We have been able to reduce doses to organs at risk to levels that could not have been envisaged before now, while at the same time tumour coverage has been maintained or even improved. Even in this short timeframe of using MCO, I would not want to plan without it."

"Eclipse 15.5 provides clinicians with powerful new tools to quickly create optimized treatment plans that are unique to each patient," said Ed Vertatschitsch, vice president, global portfolio solutions, Varian Medical Systems. "Additionally, the ability to utilize HyperArc for complex stereotactic radiosurgery is a significant step forward in the fight against cancer."

"It can typically take many hours to create treatment plans for each patient," said James Kavanaugh, instructor of Radiation Oncology and chief of affiliate satellite medical physics services at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "When we evaluated about 160 patient treatment plans using the software, we found that it could help us more efficiently explore clinical tradeoffs of various treatment plans and improve the overall plan quality for the majority of cases."

For more information on Eclipse 15.5, visit http://www.varian.com/news/eclipse.

About Varian Medical Systems

Varian Medical Systems focuses energy on saving lives and is the world's leading manufacturer of medical devices and software for treating and managing cancer. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Varian employs approximately 6,600 people around the world. For more information, visit http://www.varian.com and follow @VarianMedSys on Twitter.

SOURCE Varian Medical Systems

Related Links

http://www.varian.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Vector Center today announced its Perception Reality Engine, a proprietary platform capable of vastly improving and accelerating decision making around crises related to water, food, and energy. In collaboration with IBM Cloud Services, Vector Center incorporates artificial intelligence in this new approach that consolidates previously inaccessible data and generates deeper analytics to inform more effective responses.

In an era of disruption and rapid innovation, Vector Center delivers critical intelligence at the intersection of water, food, and energy globally. Vector Center's fact-based, frontline intelligence reveals context that informs and drives global policy, investment, and economic decisions with an experienced team that cuts through the clutter of big data with on-the-ground expertise and context. Photo: Kern County, Calif. Photo J. Carl Ganter/Vector Center (may be used with permission)

The innovative Perception Reality Engine derives insights from traditionally disconnected data sources through a combination of analytics including public sentiment analysis, large-scale data science, academic research, and on-the-ground reporting.

"Disruptive events, long-term fundamental shifts, and increasing population are placing enormous strain on our ability to manage water, food, and energy demands around the world," said Vector Center founder J. Carl Ganter, speaking today at the Concordia Summit in New York. "To address profound challenges of this magnitude, we need to understand faster and better what people believe and the data behind the problems they face. That's the only way we can find solutions."

The Perception Reality Engine comes at a time when water security issues on one side of the planet can affect geopolitical stability and economies on the other. At the current pace, the world will reach a 40 percent gap between water supply and demand by 2030, which will affect supply chains, energy markets, food production, and access to safe and sustainable water for people and ecosystems. This week, world leaders are meeting in New York at the United Nations General Assembly to discuss the Sustainable Development Goals, which are designed advance systemic solutions to immense, interconnected global challenges.

Vector Center has teamed with IBM Cloud Services to provide big data analytics and Watson cognitive capabilities. Using Vector Center's proven feedback-driven processes, the Perception Reality Engine captures and analyzes data from the ground up  from grassroots social media, news coverage, and original on-the-ground reportage, to peer-reviewed research and satellite tracking and monitoring.

"To make effective decisions in disruptive times, today's leaders need to quickly navigate and make sense of mass amounts of data and, often, apparent contradictions between perceptions and reality," said Katie Horvath, Vector Center CEO. "By collaborating with the IBM team, we incorporate the power of artificial intelligence to see patterns and trends from fresh perspectives. We can also identify new ways to learn from the plethora of information now available to us, and design better ways to align understanding with action."

About

From satellite to the ground, Vector Center's situational awareness capabilities are powered by AI-based cognitive analysis and its proprietary Perception Reality Engine to deliver decision grade intelligence, scenarios, and response strategies in a disruptive era. Vector Center, founded in 2014, is based in Traverse City, Michigan.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2YcnYkRbHE

Website

http://vector-center.com

Contact

Matthew Welch

(844) 324-7253

[email protected]

SOURCE Vector Center

Related Links

http://vector-center.com


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 7, 2017, entities affiliated with Kabir Mulchandani, a resident of the United Arab Emirates, filed a baseless lawsuit against Viceroy Hotel Group in Los Angeles. The lawsuit cites a consultant report dated in August to justify the wrongful ouster of Viceroy as the manager of the Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Hotel two months earlier. Viceroy explicitly denies the allegations in the lawsuit and the consultant report, and is confident the legal process will demonstrate the falsity of both.

Viceroy and its management honored the terms of the hotel management contract with Mr. Mulchandani and his group at all times, including the time leading up to their expulsion from the property on 19 June 2017. Three days later the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) Courts reinstated Viceroy as manager of the Viceroy Palm Jumeirah in Dubai without further notice and Mr. Mulchandani and his group remain subject to that comprehensive injunction.

Viceroy will continue to seek enforcement of the DIFC injunction and will vigorously defend itself against these false allegations. Viceroy will also aggressively pursue all remedies available to it.

About Viceroy Hotel Group

Viceroy Hotel Group inspires travelers with one-of-a-kind authentic lifestyle experiences that bring together provocative design and intuitive service in sought-after locations. A leader in modern luxury, Viceroy's vibe-led hospitality is guided by the brand promise "Remember to Live," an affirmation to create lifelong memories for each and every guest. Viceroy destinations are segmented into three distinct portfolio tiers to help travelers find exactly the kind of experience they're looking for. The Viceroy Icon Collection properties include epic hotels and resorts in Chicago, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Beverly Hills, Riviera Maya, Snowmass, and St. Lucia, with forthcoming openings in Algarve, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Panama, Cartagena, and Vietnam. The Viceroy Lifestyle Series hotels and resorts are found in attitude-led destinations including New York and Santa Monica, with a forthcoming opening in Serbia. The Urban Retreat Collection properties in San Francisco and New York have an independent spirit and bold, eccentric personalities. Viceroy Hotel Group is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) DISCOVERY, a unique loyalty program offering exclusive benefits and experiences to its members at over 550 hotels around the world. For more information, visit www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com. Follow Viceroy Hotel Group at facebook.com/viceroyhotelgroup and on Instagram and Twitter @viceroyhotels.

Contact: LFB Media Group | 646-455-0042

[email protected]

SOURCE Viceroy Hotel Group

Related Links

http://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com


Description

Develop your drawing skills in five open studio sessions by drawing male and female models through gesture sketches and longer duration observation, under the guidance of teaching artist Linda Capello. All skill levels welcome. Please register online or call.

For adults (age 15+).

Participants are asked to provide the following dry media supplies: 18x24 newsprint, soft vine charcoal, conte, woodless graphite pencil (#6 or higher), kneaded eraser, and a drawing board.
DUBLIN and ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Waratek, the virtualization-based application security company, today announced that John Matthew Holt, founder and CTO of Waratek will present "Popular Approaches to Preventing Code Injection Attacks are Dangerously Wrong" on Thursday, September, 21, at the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP)'s AppSec USA 2017 in Orlando, Florida.

What: "Popular Approaches to Preventing Code Injection Attacks are Dangerously Wrong"

According to the 2016 Verizon Data Breach Investigation Report, web application attacks like the recent attack against Equifax are the top source of data breaches today. Currently, the most common approach to protecting applications is to identify and fix/patch vulnerabilities like those recently found in the Struts 2 framework and regularly announced by Microsoft and Oracle. The amount of time required to apply patches makes this approach risky.

Presentation attendees will gain a working knowledge of how the next generation of application security solutions will be used against common attacks, especially code injections. In the future, web-based applications will be protected by highly accurate, easy to operate virtualized technology in the runtime.

When: Thursday, September 21, 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. ET

Where: AppSec USA, Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Orlando, Florida

OWASP's 14th Annual AppSec USA Security Conference is the premier application security conference for developers and security experts. The OWASP is an open-source, not-for-profit application security organization made up of corporations, educational organizations, and individuals from around the world. Providing free, vendor-neutral, practical, cost-effective application security guidance, the OWASP Foundation is the de-facto standards body for web application security used by developers and organizations globally.

Who: John Matthew Holt, founder and CTO of Waratek

A JVM/JIT compiler engineer, John Matthew is a recognized expert in Java, virtualization and application security. John Matthew has been an expert speaker at a number of Java technical events including Red Hat Summit, JavaOne, VMWorld, Oracle OpenWorld, Jax London, NY Java SIG and Docklands London Java Community.

As chief architect of Waratek's Java application security product, Holt is the driving force behind the product's architecture and innovation. He has been awarded more than 60 patents for inventions that span abstract machine, dynamic recompilation, distributed computing and virtualization technologies.

About Waratek

Waratek is a pioneer in the next generation of application security solutions. Based on patented virtualization technology, Waratek's Application Security Platform is highly accurate, easy to install, simple to operate and does not slow application performance  while providing protection against known and unknown vulnerabilities in current and legacy software in ways competitors cannot.

Waratek has received the 2017 CDM INFOSEC Leader Award for Application Security, was named 2016's Best Application Security Solution by Government Security News and is the winner of the 2015 RSA Innovation Sandbox Award. JavaWorld notes that "Waratek is the only vendor that can boast of a large-scale production deployment with a Tier 1 global investment bank, the most significant deployment of (runtime protection) that exists for Java technology today."

Waratek is based in Dublin, Ireland and Atlanta, GA. For more information visit www.waratek.com

Media Contact:

Mike Gallo for Waratek

Lumina PR

212-239-8594

[email protected]

SOURCE Waratek

Related Links

http://www.waratek.com


HANGZHOU, China, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 11, 2017, the 3rd Eco-Forum of Global Social Entrepreneurs titled in "Bearing mission of the age and co-constructing ecosystem" was closed successfully in the International Convention Center of Beijing Lake Yanxi.

The three-day forum developed discussions from "social entrepreneurs' missions and responsibilities; entrepreneurial spirits; internet +, capital market and business nature & inheritance, etc.", which has helped Chinese entrepreneurs under the new normal to find the new direction and the power to achieve success. Nicolas Sarkozy, the former President of France, Christian Wulff, the former President of Germany, and Jim Rogers, the famous investor and other distinguished guests have addressed keynote speeches and talked with entrepreneurs respectively.

The most brilliant person that every one thought in the Forum was Mr. Wei Jie, the President of JC Group who addressed a speech at era height.

As the youngest post-80s entrepreneur participating in the Forum, Wei Jie addressed a wonderful speech and obtained the appraises from all people in the hall. There was warm applause from audiences offstage - Wei Jie has talked about the voice that everybody is most eager to hear in the era, and the elites in various circles including politics, business and the media have showed their high respect to Wei Jie in the speech.

In the speech, Wei Jie started with "self-discipline and social commitment" to interpret the mentality that an entrepreneur should achieve. Wei Jie thought that, only adhering to the most fundamental ways enterprises handle matters on a firm footing can entrepreneurs be respected. He said: "as the leaders of enterprises, we must lead a trend and atmosphere to the society. If the eco-environment of an entrepreneur is created not based on the main direction of its self enterprise quality and development, in my opinion, the whole entrepreneur ecology of us will become worse and worse at last. We entrepreneurs must tell the society that, with accumulated fame and support from the public, we must give a correct and excellent product and clear and excellent environment. We need to be self-disciplined and socially committed to jointly constructing entrepreneur ecology." The powerful but simple words have fully expressed the social responsibilities and positive energy.

In the speech, Mr. Wei Jie also talked about the development arrangement of the future economy and he said, "to obtain considerable development, we need to develop a new energy of motivation. Apart from the new technology on one hand, the other is the re-upgrading of outdated production capacity. However, the most important direction in new energy of motivation is digital economy. During the whole process of creating new urbanization, JC Group owns the opportunity of arranging the digital economy in advance from the infrastructure and application client, during which a domestic leading digitalization network with independent technical standards can be created.

JC Group can complete a more-matching commodity transaction, culture communication and infrastructure connection - finance can also play a vital role.

Then a famous investor Rogers, the next speaker following Wei Jie, showed his great appreciation to the speech addressed by Wei Jie, and he said, "you should applaud yourselves. Because many western countries are not willing to see the rejuvenation of China, but they have no such power and China is bound to revive. In the future several decades of years, China will still be the best economy."

Nicolas Sarkozy, the former President of France, said: "China is one of the most important economies in the globe, and the globe appreciates your wisdom, labor ability, unremitting persistence, and your love of motherland as well as the economic development built by yourselves. The globalization road of China has not be ended, and the globe needs China, and so does China need the globe, expect more cooperation and communication."

Christian Wulff, the former President of Germany also said: "China is practicing the Maritime Silk Road and Land Silk Road. It can be said that the concept of Silk Road has been proposed for a long time, and Silk Road is an important passage to promote the close contact with us. Now China is the second biggest economy in the world, and it believed that China will become the biggest economy in the world soon in the future."

With the constant deepening of the globalization process, new variables and business types also rise up quickly, which rewrites the business ecosystem and economic pattern, and changes the commercial ties at an unprecedented speed. Now, China is a key country in the global economy, which many feel entrepreneurs should feel national pride for the society .As the forerunner and pioneer of the era, Wei Jie feels obliged to bear the Chinese Dream of realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

On September 11th, the personnel of JC Group in 8 countries and regions and 60 more cities participated in the 14th JC Rostrum, and they listened to the keynote speech titled in "Strive for the Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation" addressed by President Wei Jie through the scene or live connection, and he said: "what we are engaged in now is a great career of exploring historical beginning. As a part of it, every colleague shall, apart from being filled with sense of pride and honor, and have a high sense of responsibility. We are going to face and undertake a greater future, so the most important thing for us is to see the direction and do the practical work. I am also wiling to be bounded by the objective, and all the work, behaviors and thoughts are developed, strived for and completed based on the objective, and it is right the mission of the young generation of us."

Facing the great mission and a long way to go, Wei Jie has never hesitated in constructing the rejuvenation road by gathering the power from the globe. We can believe that, the post-80s person with can certainly bring China's economy to overcome all obstacles and make for a more core future.

SOURCE JC Group
The desire to know "Why?" can become all-consuming and lead to irrational behavior. Therefore, Chili's is addressing the most pertinent question head on: "Why Chili's? Why take away 40 percent of the menu?" Easy, Chili's tried to be all things to all Guests and lost its way over the years. Quite simply, the brand needs to focus on what matters most, which is serving exceptional food to exceptional Guests. Deep down beyond the grief, Guests know this change is for the better as well. Grief can be a difficult process and it takes time to fully feel right again, but Chili's is here to make that process bearable by sharing recipes of items leaving the menu, easy-to-follow recipe tutorial videos and a proper sendoff to some cherished menu items that are no longer with the Chili's family.

How-To Recipes

Can't live without the Southwestern Mac 'N' Cheese? Good news, no Guest has to live without it. Chili's is sharing recipes of the most popular dishes leaving the menu on Pinterest so Guests can continue enjoying their favorites from the comfort of their own home.

Bookmark this Pinterest page for your next cooking endeavor

Recipe Tutorial Videos

The brand even made five easy-to-follow recipe videos to provide a visual as Guests recreate these dishes.

Watch these videos to see how easy it is to make these five dishes at home

Send-Off Videos

To do this right, Chili's had to properly say farewell to a few admired menu items. So, Chili's created a series of send-off videos that will be shared on the brand's social channels. These videos will provide closure for Guests and hopefully a couple of laughs as well.

Grab some tissues and let it out  Chili's won't judge

Today, Chili's will continue to share what has gone away and what has changed. Guests should join in on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and say goodbye to retired menu items and hello, hello, hello to Bigger Big Mouth Burgers, Texas Size Baby Back Ribs and Full-On Fajitas.

About Chili's Grill & Bar

Chili's Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), a recognized leader in casual dining. Known for their signature menu items  burgers, ribs and fajitas Chili's offers fresh, bold and unexpected flavors. Each ChiliHead at more than 1,600 locations in 31 countries and two territories takes great pride in Chili's purpose of connecting with and serving Guests and giving back to the communities in which they are located. In addition to Chili's, Brinker owns and operates Maggiano's Little Italy. For more brand-related information, visit chilis.com.

SOURCE Chili's Grill & Bar
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
Malappuram (Kerala), Sep 13 : The Election Commission has announced the bypoll for Vengara assembly constituency in Malappuram in Kerala on October 11, officials said on Wednesday.

The by-election became necessary after sitting legislator and top top Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader P.K. Kunhalikutty vacated the seat after he was elected from the Malappuram Lok Sabha constituency in April this year.

In the 2016 assembly polls, Kunhalikutty humbled his nearest rival candidate of the CPI-M led Left Democratic Front by 38,057 votes, one of the highest margins in the state.

In this year's Lok sabha by-election, he increased his margin from the constituency, which comes under the Malappuram Lok sabha constituency to 40,529 votes.

"Our aim is to ensure that our candidate wins with a bigger majority than before, which is not going to be a tough thing. I am also free now for the campaign," said Kunhalikutty.

The IUML began its campaign last week, even before the poll date was announced, with the entire top brass of the Congress-led UDF arriving for the first election convention.

The ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) is yet to announce its candidate.

September 22 is the last date of filing nominations.
Amaravati, Sep 13 : Airports in Andhra Pradesh have registered 16 percent growth in passenger traffic this year, it was announced on Wednesday.

The airports handled 17.42 lakh passengers in April-August this year, against 15.05 lakh during the same period last year, it was revealed at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu here on Wednesday to review infrastructure.

According to a statement from the Chief Minister's office, the air connectivity will further improve in coming months with the introduction of more flights.

From October, non-stop Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) flights will commence from Visakhapatnam to Jagdalpur and from Kadapa to Vijayawada.

Under RCS, Kadapa is connected to Hyderabad and will be connected to Vijayawada by TruJet and Chennai by TruJet and Air Odisha. Visakhapatnam will be connected to Jagdalpur by Air Odisha.

Zoom Air has proposed operations on Delhi, Pune, Vijayawada, Mumbai, Surat routes from October. The government is currently pursuing the slot at Mumbai airport for Zoom Air and SpiceJet, it said.

International operations will be launched at Tirupati and Vijayawada and for this the approvals for the customs and immigration have been received. The airlines will be finalised soon.

The Chief Minister suggested that an airport near Anantapur will be a good idea as it will provide good connectivity to Amaravati and Bengaluru.

The ports traffic in all the state witnessed an overall growth of 8 per cent.

The meeting was also informed that that the tenders for the Natural Gas pipeline from Kakinada to Visakhapatnam for 180 km were received from four qualified bidders. The laying of the pipeline will commence next month, and will be completed by December 2018.

Officials said 12 waste-to-energy plants with a total capacity of 70 MW were commissioned.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the progress on the logistics and energy universities in Kakinada and Anantapur respectively.

It was also decided that AP State Fibernet Limited will commence functioning next month. The target of one lakh AIPTV boxes will be achieved by the month-end. More than 51,000 boxes had already arrived.

SpaceAce Architects, Planners and Designers presented their proposal for Science City in Tirupati. They proposed seven museums, representing the seven hills and paying a tribute to seven of the best architects in the world.

The seven museums will be: Museum of Arts & Science, Museum of Air, Space & Defence, Children's Museum, Media Museum, Museum of Transport, Museum of Human Evolution & Anthropology and Indoor Rainforest & Museum of Biodiversity.
Washington, Sep 13 : Al Qaeda has called on Islamists to rise up and "punish" Buddhist Myanmar for its deadly security crackdown against the country's Rohingya Muslim minority, US-based terrorist tracking group SITE Intelligence reported on Wednesday.

"The savage treatment meted out to our Muslim brothers ... shall not pass without punishment," the jihadist terror network said in a statement, according to SITE.

"The government of Myanmar shall be made to taste what our Muslim brothers have tasted," added Al Qaeda, which was behind the September 11, 2001 attacks on the US.

Al-Qaeda's statement urged Muslims around the world to support their fellow Muslims in Myanmar with aid, weapons and "military support".

Some 370,000 Rohingyas have over the past three weeks fled to neighbouring Bangladesh amid what Myanmar's authorities describe as a clearing operation by security forces after a series of Rohingya militant attacks on police and army posts killed 12 people in the country's western Rakhine state on August 25.

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali on Sunday accused the Myanmar government of committing genocide against the Rohingya, who it does not recognise as an ethnic group.

Ali told diplomats that unofficials sources had put the Rohingya death-toll from the latest unrest in Rakhine at around 3,000, amid reports of the burning of Rohingya villages and extrajudicial killings by Myanmar's security forces and Buddhist mobs.

About 10,000 Rohingya homes had been torched in Rakhine, according to Ali, a figure that cannot be precisely verified as Myanmar has restricted independent access to the state.

The United Nations on Monday called Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya a "textbook example" of ethnic cleansing and Nobel Peace laureate, the Dalai Lama last weekend told Myanmar's security forces and Buddhist nationalists to "remember Buddha".
New Delhi, Sep 15 : Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said the government will inform the Supreme Court of its stand on the Rohingya immigrants on September 18, and refused any further comments on the issue.

Asked about the politics over the Rohingya refugees, a persecuted community of Muslims from Myanmar who have fled the country in large numbers, the Home Minister said: "Whatever affidavit we have to file, we will file on September 18."

The Supreme Court has fixed Monday for hearing of a plea challenging the government's decision to deport illegal Rohingya Muslim immigrants back to Myanmar.

Several Union Ministers, as well as Ministers in the Assam government, have in the past said that the Rohingyas are illegal immigrants in India and will have to leave the country.

An affidavit on the issue, which the government later said was just a draft and being worked upon, was leaked after it was inadvertently served on the counsel for petitioner Muhammad Salimullah.

In the draft affidavit, the Centre said there were "contemporaneous inputs" received by it that indicated links of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan- and Bangladesh-based terror organisations.

The Centre also said that it was found that there were organised network of agents and touts facilitating illegal migration of Rohingyas in India.

"The continuity of Rohingya immigration and their continued stay in India, apart from being illegal, has serious national security ramification," said the draft.

"It has also been found that many Rohingyas figure in the suspected sinister design of IS (Islamic State terror group)/other extremist groups, who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India, including that of flaring up communal and sectarian violence in the sensitive areas of the country," the Centre's affidavit read.

Rajnath Singh spoke on the sideline of the promotion of Home Ministry's 18-day "Swachhta Hi Sewa Mission" cleanliness campaign programme launched on Friday at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Tigri camp here.

The campaign will end on October 2.

While inaugurating the cleanliness campaign, Rajnath Singh said the Home Ministry and all the troopers of the paramilitary forces would clean the area in and around the official premises.

The Home Minister elaborated upon various steps being undertaken by the government towards cleanliness mission in the country and a "Swachhta pledge" was also administered by him on the occasion.

"For cleanliness campaign, the government is implementing a Rs 12,000 crore action plan through 76 Ministries," he said.

"Providing toilet facility at home will ensure safety and dignity of women. The campaign will help in improving nutrition and productivity of our children," Rajnath Singh said.

"The government is confident of fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making India open defecation-free by October 2019."

He also said that the government's priority is to use technology for creating wealth from waste.
Panchkula/Chandigarh, Sep 16 : The hearing of the two separate murder cases against Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh and others will be continued next week, court sources said.

Hearing in the matter, which began in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special court in Panchkula on Saturday amid tight security saw the sect chief taking part through video conferencing from the Rohtak District Jail, where he is lodged following his conviction in two rape cases on August 25.

Seven other accused in the murder cases were present in the court.

The sect chief's counsel S.K. Garg told media that the hearing of the Ranjit Singh murder case will be held on Monday (September 18) and journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati murder case will be held on September 22.

Garg said that the final arguments will take some time to complete.

Meanwhile, the sect chief's former driver, Khatta Singh, moved an application before the CBI court saying that he wanted to record a fresh statement in the murder case. His application will be taken up next week.

Khatta Singh had earlier given a statement in favour of the sect chief in the murder cases but now claimed that he did it under threat and pressure from the sect chief.

Tight security arrangements, including para-military forces and Haryana Police personnel, were deployed in Panchkula town, especially around the court complex in Sector 1. Security arrangements were tightened around the prison complex near Rohtak and in Sirsa district, where the headquarters of the sect are located.

The cases, related to the murder of Sirsa-based journalist Chhatrapati and former Dera manager Ranjit Singh, allegedly by functionaries and followers of the sect, were listed for final arguments on Saturday in the court of special CBI judge Jagdeep Singh.

It was the same judge who had, on August 25, convicted Ram Rahim on two counts of rape of his female disciples and sentenced him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment on August 28.

Final arguments in the Chhatrapati murder case were being held on Saturday. The journalist was shot at in October 2002. He died in November, after battling for life in a hospital for a few days.

Ranjit Singh, who was believed to be privy to a number of wrong things going on inside the sect headquarters, was shot dead in July 2003.

The sect chief is an accused in both murder cases, along with other accused, as these were carried out allegedly at his behest.

Ahead of the hearing, Haryana Director General of Police B.S. Sandhu had said on Friday that adequate paramilitary and Haryana Police personnel had been stationed in Panchkula in view of the murder case hearing.

However, this time, no Dera followers assembled in Panchkula ahead of Saturday's hearing, unlike the rape case hearing where over one lakh followers had converged in the town and had indulged in large-scale violence after his conviction.

Violence had also broken out in Sirsa with both the incidents, leaving 38 people dead and 264 injured. Isolated incidents of violence were also reported from Delhi and several other places in Punjab.
New Delhi, Sep 16 : The Congress on Saturday termed the Narendra Modi-led central government a 'fuel-loot sarkar' and demanded withdrawal of the excise duties on petrol and diesel.

"Burning holes in the pocket of common people have become benchmark of governance for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government," said Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala, hitting out at Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons' remark on petrol and diesel prices.

"Arrogance of BJP has crossed all proportions when Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons said if you have a scooter, motorcycle or a small car, then you can afford to pay the high prices of petrol and diesel," he added.

Surjewala further said: "Looting people by the BJP by collecting excise duties of Rs 2 lakh 50 thousand crore has become the new normal.

"No wonder BJP is called the fuel-loot sarkar as crude oil prices plummet, the petrol and diesel prices skyrocket and that is the new reality of New India," he added.

"We demand that BJP forthwith withdraws the 400 per cent and 135 per cent excise that they have imposed on diesel and petrol and give relief to common man against the spiralling prices of petrol and diesel," the Congress spokesperson added.
United Nations, Sep 17 : US President Donald Trump who had earlier derided the UN as a good-time club for chatting, will make his debut here on Monday by convening a summit to back Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's efforts to reform the global organisation.

In an unusual move, Trump made the signing of a 10-point political declaration supporting Guterres's efforts and endorsing his own perspective.

US Permanent Representative Nikki Haley said that "120 countries have signed on and will be in attendance. That's a miraculous number".

India is one of them and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will be at the meeting, India's Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin confirmed on Saturday.

Describing the initiative, Haley said: "We've got a massive reform package being led by the Secretary General that really streamlines not just the processes, but also the budget as it goes forward, and makes the UN much more effective."

In response, Akbaruddin said: "But we feel that reforms need to be much broad-based... You cannot have reform of only the Secretariat. You cannot side step issues relating to governance of UN bodies."

The big issue of governance for India is the composition of the Security Council where New Delhi wants a permanent seat.

While India supports all reform efforts, Akbaruddin said: "For us reform is broad-based, all encompassing, and we look to engage with all colleagues and friends from other countries on this."

Trump's first visit as President to the UN marks a turnaround from his snub last December when he called it "just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time".

"There is such tremendous potential, but it is not living up," he had said then.

A major plank of Guterres's campaign for Secretary-General last year was reforming the UN, and although he and Trump differ vehemently on many issues like climate change and refugees, reform is a point they agree on.

The other side of the reform coin is trimming the budget.

The US is the single largest contributor to the to UN, sending in 25 per cent of the general budget and 28 per cent of the peacekeeping outlay, and Trump wants to cut the American contributions as part of his drive to slash Washington's budget.

Haley in January warned that the US would do away with "anything that is not working" and promising austerity, echoing Trump's campaign rhetoric.

The other related focus of Washington is on peacekeeping operations and Vice President Mike Pence will be attending the high-level meeting on it, Haley said.

In June, the General Assembly cut 7.25 per cent of the peacekeeping budget for next year.

India is historically the largest troop-contributor to UN operations having sent more than 60,000 troops, of whom over 7,000 are currently serving.

Asked about the US peacekeeping reform suggestions and the push for budget cuts, Akbaruddin said troop numbers were not the only factor India was concerned about and finding political solution, reforms and training mattered.

"We will continue interacting with the US on this."

India and the US were already working together in training African peacekeepers, he added.

(Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in)
London, Sep 17 : A second man was arrested over the terror attack on a London Tube train that left 30 people injured and resulted in an increase in the country's terror threat level from "severe" to "critical", police said on Sunday.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the 21-year-old man arrested in Hounslow, west London, on Saturday night, reports the BBC.

"He was arrested under the Terrorism Act and taken to a police station where he remains in custody," the Met police said.

Earlier on Saturday, an 18-year-old man was arrested the Port of Dover over the Friday morning attack, sending a ball of fire along a carriage of the eastbound District Line train from Wimbledon at the Parsons Green station.

Police are continuing to search a house in Sunbury-on-Thames in Surrey. The house belongs to an elderly couple known for fostering hundreds of children, including refugees.

The Islamic State terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the BBC reported.

The explosion occurred through a homemade explosive artefact, inside a white bucket, which failed to fully detonate.

Less than 24 hours later, the suburban Tube station was back in use by travellers.

Prime Minister Theresa May raised the terror status to its highest level, which means another attack is considered imminent.
Washington, Sep 18 : US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that the US could stay in the Paris Agreement on climate change under right conditions.

"Under the right conditions, the President said he's open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others in what we all agree is a challenging issue," said Tillerson in an interview with CBS on Sunday.

Tillerson's remarks were in line with previous statements from the US State Department which said that the US is "open to re-engaging in the Paris Agreement if the US can identify terms that are more favourable to it, its business, its workers, its people, and its taxpayers", Xinhua news agency reported.

US President Donald Trump on June 1 announced his decision to withdraw from Paris Agreement, citing concerns about the accord's threat to the US economy as a main reason for the withdrawal.

"The cost to the economy at this time (by 2040) would be close to $3 trillion in lost GDP and 6.5 million industrial jobs," said Trump then, citing figures from a disputed study commissioned by the American Council for Capital Formation and the US Chamber of Commerce, both known for lobbying against climate regulations.

The decision to withdraw fulfilled a crucial campaign promise by Trump, who once called climate change "a hoax".

In his first budget request, Trump also proposed a 31 per cent reduction in funding the US Environment Protection Agency.

Yet, despite his decision to leave the Paris Agreement, Trump would stick to the four-year-long withdrawal process stipulated by the Paris Agreement, which means that the US withdrawal won't take effect till November 2020, about two months away from the end of his first term.
Washington, Sep 18 : US President Donald Trump once again mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, calling him "Rocket Man", an allusion to Pyongyang's recent nuclear tests, as well as speaking ironically about the "long ... lines" of people waiting to get fuel in the nation after the sanctions imposed by the UN.

"I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!" wrote Trump on his Twitter account on Sunday.

The reference to the gas lines was made, evidently, as an allusion to the sanctions imposed last week by the international body on North Korea after Pyongyang's recent missile tests, Efe news reported.

The latest sanctions include a reduction in the amount of petroleum that Pyongyang may import, although the true impact on the North Korean economy has not yet been confirmed.

Moon and Trump agreed on the need to fully implement the sanctions so that North Korea understands that continuing with its weapons testing will only result in its increasing diplomatic isolation and additional economic pressure, which will -- in all likelihood -- ultimately lead to the regime's "collapse", the South Korean President's Office said.

The conversation between the two leaders came after Pyongyang's launching on Friday of another long-range missile, which overflew Japanese territory before landing harmlessly in the Pacific.

Moon and Trump agreed to place additional pressure on North Korea, including implementing the new batch of sanctions unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council this past week, a response to Pyongyang's sixth and most power nuclear test on September 3.
Washington, Sep 18 : US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warned that the world body has "exhausted" its options on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.

"We have pretty much exhausted all the things that we can do at the Security Council at this point," Haley on Sunday said in an interview with the CNN.

"None of us want war," she said, adding that if diplomacy fails on the nuclear issue, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis "will take care of it", Xinhua news agency reported.

Meanwhile, the US and South Korea have agreed to increase pressure on North Korea after its latest missile test, the White House said on Sunday.

US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in spoke on Saturday by phone and committed to "continuing to take steps to strengthen deterrence and defence capabilities and to maximize economic and diplomatic pressure" on North Korea, according to a White House statement.

North Korea confirmed that it conducted another medium-range ballistic missile test on Friday.

The missile launch, which violates UN Security Council resolutions, came just days after the council imposed fresh sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear test on September 3.

China on Friday said it opposes ballistic missile launches by North Korea, urging all parties concerned to exercise restraint and avoid any acts that may escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Riyadh, Sep 18 : Social media platform Snapchat has blocked access to Al Jazeera content in Saudi Arabia, the media reported on Monday.

the popular photo-sharing app said it was asked by the Saudi authorities to remove the Qatari-backed broadcaster's Discover Publisher Channel because it violated local laws, reports the BBC.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement.

Qatar is in an ongoing dispute with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The four countries cut ties with Qatar earlier this year, accusing the country of supporting terrorism.

After the start of the dispute, Saudi Arabia had also demanded the Qatari government to shut Al Jazeera altogether as one of 13 conditions to remove sanctions against the country.

However, those conditions were later withdrawn.
Aluva (Kerala) : Aluva (Kerala) Sep 18 (IANS) A court on Monday turned down the fourth bail plea of Malayalam actor Dileep, arrested for alleged involvement in the conspiracy behind the kidnapping of an actress.

The Angamaly Magistrate Court on Saturday, after hearing both the sides -- the accused and prosecution -- had posted the verdict for Monday.

This is the second time the Angamaly Magistrate Court has turned down Dileep's bail plea. The Kerala High Court too had, on two occasions earlier, dismissed his bail plea.

Dileep was arrested on July 10 for his involvement in the conspiracy that led to the abduction and molestation of a Malayalam actress in February.

Police had arrested the prime accused Pulsar Suni and his accomplices a week after the incident. However, a conspiracy angle cropped up much later that led to Dileep's arrest.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The CBI on Monday said it has registered an FIR against the officials of Army Medical Corps (AMC) and Medical Council of India (MCI) for allegedly leaking sensitive information.

Besides, several other private persons were also booked for the alleged information leak with respect to inspections and recognition of courses.

According to a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) official, the FIR was registered on September 16 under sections of criminal conspiracy and demand, and acceptance of illegal gratification by corrupt and illegal means to influence a public servant.

The booked officials -- Santosh Kumar of MCI and Colonel Ajay Kumar Singh of the AMC -- in connivance with Susheel Kumar and Sachin, both private persons, were allegedly running a racket of leaking sensitive information related to inspections, recognition of courses, number of seats and other similar administrative matters being dealt with by the MCI with regard to various medical colleges and institutions.

In its First Information Report (FIR), the investigating agency said "reliable information was received that Santosh Kumar, an LDC in MCI, was in regular contact with B. Ramachandhiran, Chairman, Sri Venkateshwara Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Puducherry, for sharing sensitive information and helping them with respect to some administrative matter regarding inspections and approvals related to the aforesaid medical college being dealt with by the MCI".

"Santosh Kumar was also in touch with Colonel Ajay Kumar Singh of the AMC who is empanelled as an Assessor with the MCI for inspecting various medical colleges," the FIR said.

The FIR alleged both the officials were in regular touch with Ramachandhiran, adding that they also had personal meetings in this regard and demanded illegal gratification for rendering support and providing information at regular intervals.

The FIR claimed Ramachandhiran had delivered one installment of illegal gratification to Singh and Kumar recently.

"Singh and Kumar again contacted Ramachandhiran and demanded remaining installment of the illegal gratification to them in lieu of showing favour by way of providing the aforesaid information and to provide help in inspections," the FIR stated.

"They are engaging with the owners or management of these medical institutions for obtaining huge periodical illegal gratification," the CBI FIR said.
Chennai, Sep 18 : Eighteen AIADMK legislators loyal to sidelined Deputy General Secretary T.T.V. Dinakaran have been disqualified under the anti-defection law by the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker, it was announced on Monday.

Speaker P. Dhanapal ordered the "disqualification of 18 lawmakers under the anti-defection law" from Monday, a statement issued by the Assembly said.

A total of 19 AIADMK legislators had submitted a letter to Governor C.V. Rao withdrawing support to Chief Minister K. Palaniswami. They asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new Chief Minister.

After that, AIADMK Chief Whip S. Rajendran asked Dhanapal to disqualify the 19 MLAs who rebelled against Palaniswami.

Dhanapal issued notices to the 19 lawmakers asking them why they should not be disqualified under the anti-defection law.

Subsequently, one of the MLAs, S.T.K. Jakkaiyan, switched over to the Palaniswami side.

Reacting to the disqualification of 18 legislators, Dinakaran told reporters that they would file a case against the Speaker's decision.

The opposition parties have been demanding the government to prove its majority on the floor of the house after 19 legislators revolted against Chief Minister Palaniswami.

The Madras High Court had ordered that a floor test should not be held till September 20.

After the disqualification of 18 legislators, the government has a majority in the House.
Washington, Sep 18 : US President Donald Trump's personal attorney Michael Cohen is expected to appear on Tuesday before the Senate Intelligence Committee which is probing alleged Russian collusion in the 2016 election, the media reported.

It is expected that the committee staff will interview Cohen but he is not expected to be under oath during the appearance, informed sources told CNN on Sunday.

Cohen's appearance before the committee is also voluntary.

In May, Cohen had said that he was declining invitations to testify before the House and Senate intelligence committees, which are pursuing investigations into Russia's alleged efforts to influence last year's election and any potential collusion by the Trump campaign.

But he said at the time that he would "gladly" comply with a subpoena compelling his testimony and that he had nothing to hide.

Cohen is a longtime associate of the President, playing a prominent role in his business empire and supporting his presidential campaign.

Cohen's expected appearance Tuesday would follow congressional efforts to speak with or take testimony from other key figures in Trump's presidential bid.

Earlier this month, Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., spoke at length with Senate judiciary committee staff, and the panel's top Democrat, Senator Dianne Feinstein on Sunday told CNN that the committee's leadership plans to call him in for public testimony.

Feinstein said that her panel would subpoena former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort should he refuse a request to appear before the committee.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court that the influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar started in 2012 as the apex court directed an October 3 hearing on a petition challenging their deportation.

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud directed the hearing for October as the Centre told the bench that they would be filing their response during the day.

Adjourning the hearing, the court asked the petitioner and others to file their rejoinder to the Centre's stand before the next date of hearing.

The Centre told the top court not to interfere in the matter as it was an "essential executive" function of policy decision in the larger national interest.

"The continued stay of Rohingyas in India apart from being absolutely illegal is found to be having national security ramification and has serious security threats," the Centre said in its affidavit.

Telling the court that the presence of Rohingyas in India would be a drain on the resources of the country and would affect the rights of the people, the Centre on Monday pointed to the court about some of the Rohingyas having contacts with Pakistan-based terror outfits.

It further said that due to the large influx of illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries, the demographic profile of the some of the bordering states had undergone a serious change.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : An Al Qaeda terrorist has been arrested in the national capital, police said on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police P.S. Kushwah told IANS the terrorist, Shumon Haq, was arrested near Shakarpur area of east Delhi on Sunday.

The police officer said Haq has been an operative of Al Qaeda for the last four years.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Tamil Nadu government on Monday told the Supreme Court that there were no fresh anti-NEET agitations in the state after it was banned by the top court on September 8.

The top court had made NEET mandatory for admission to undergraduate and post-graduate medical courses.

The Attorney General K.K. Venugopal told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud that following the directions of the top court on September 8 banning all anti-NEET protests, the Chief Secretary of the state asked all the District Collectors to immediately comply with the top court's order.

The AG told the court that "there were no reports from the district authorities about any fresh anti-NEET agitation. As AG made his submission, the bench asked the Tamil Nadu government to file an affidavit to that affect".

The court directed the next hearing of the matter on October 8.

The top court had on September 8, on a petition by advocate G.S. Mani, banned all anti-NEET agitations in the state.
Chennai, Sep 18 : Tamil Nadu Speaker P. Dhanapal on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs owing allegiance to the AIADMK faction led by T.T.V. Dinakaran, effectively giving Chief Minister E. Palaniswami a majority in the Assembly.

Assembly Secretary K. Boopathy said that after the disqualification under the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules 1986, the 18 ceased to be MLAs from Monday.

With this, the effective strength of the 234-member House (where late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa's seat remains vacant) has come down to 215. And against a half-way mark of 109, the Chief Minister claims to enjoy the support of 114 MLAs.

The DMK and its allies have 98 members.

The disqualified MLAs are: Thanga Tamilselvan, R. Murugan, Cho. Mariappan Kennedy, K. Kathikamu, C. Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P. Palaniappan, V. Senthil Balaji, S. Muthiah, P. Vetrivel, N.G. Parthiban, M. Kothandapani, T.A. Elumalai, M. Rengasamy, R. Thangadurai, R. Balasubramani, 'Ethirkottai' S.G. Subramanian, R. Sundararaj and K. Uma Maheshwari.

Though notices were issued by the Speaker initially to 19 AIADMK MLAs who took sides with Dinakaran, one of them, S.T.K. Jakkaiyan, shifted his loyalty to the Chief Minister.

The 18 MLAs have neither quit their party membership nor joined another political party, grounds on which an MLA can be disqualified.

Reacting to the development, Dinakaran told reporters that they would file a case against the Speaker's action. "Justice will triumph. Betrayal will never win."

His loyalist MLA Thanga Tamilselvan said in Kodagu in Karnataka, where the MLAs are staying in a resort, that they were 100 per cent confident that they would get justice in courts.

They would not rest till the Chief Minister was removed, he said.

Last week, senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who appeared for the DMK on a petition seeking an immediate floor test in the Assembly, told the Madras High Court that he feared the Speaker could disqualify these MLAs and conduct a floor test to facilitate Palaniswami to prove his legislative majority.

The opposition parties have been demanding that the government should prove its majority on the floor of the house after 19 legislators asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new Chief Minister.

DMK leader M.K. Stalin told the media on Monday that the Speaker's action amounted to "cruel murder" of democracy and was an attempt by the Chief Minister to take a short cut to prove his majority in the Assembly.

The decision was a result of the "collaboration" between the Speaker and the Chief Minister, he said.

The Madras High Court had ordered that a floor test should not be held till September 20 for Palaniswami to prove his legislative majority.

Stalin had claimed earlier that the Palaniswami government has lost majority support after the legislators belonging to Dinakaran group withdrew their support to Palaniswami.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : A British national Al Qaeda terrorist on a mission to radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight in Myanmar has been arrested in the Indian capital, police said on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police P.S. Kushwah said Shami Rehman, 27, was arrested near Shakarpur bus stand in east Delhi on Sunday evening.

Kushwah said he was carrying a fake voter identification card in the name of Shumon Haq from Bihar.

Rehman, who had been an operative of Al Qaeda for the last four years, had received a three-month arms training in Syria and had fought in Alleppo, Kushwah said. Police also recovered a pistol and four cartridges from him.

Police said the accused's mission was to set up base Manipur or Mizoram and radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight the military in Myanmar.

Kushwah said Rehman was previously working in Bangladesh and was jailed.

"He had radicalised around a dozen people in Bangladesh," he said, describing him as a "hardcore terrorist".

The officer said the man was in India for the past two months and was in touch with different people from south India, West Bengal as well as Jammu and Kashmir.

The officer said Rehman's family owned a residence in central London.

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have led Myanmar and taken refuge in Bangladesh -- and some in India too -- to escape violence in the wake of a military crackdown.
Baghdad, Sep 18 : Iraq's Supreme Court on Monday issued an order to stop the independence referendum in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region slated for September 25, officials said.

In a statement, the court said the poll, which was convened by regional Kurdish president Masoud Barzani, had been suspended until they could establish if it was constitutional.

"The Supreme Court ordered the suspension of the procedures of the referendum set to take place on September 25 until it issues a ruling on complaints contesting the legality of the vote," Iyas al-Samouk, the head of the court's media office, was quoted as saying by Efe news.

The decision came a day after the UN declared that the referendum would endanger the fight against the Islamic State terror organisation and called for a dialogue between the autonomous region and Iraq.

Tensions have risen as a result of the scheduled vote, in which the Iraqi Kurdistan region and areas recently liberated from the IS and held by the Peshmerga forces are to participate.

The secretary of the Iranian Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, warned that Iran would close its borders with the region if it became independent from Iraq.

Turkey, which has in the past expressed its rejection of the referendum, on Monday began a series of military manoeuvers on its border with Iraqi Kurdistan, though it assured that they were part of an operation against terror organisations.

Iraqi Kurdistan has enjoyed regional autonomy since the 1990s, a status bolstered in the 2005 Constitution that defined Iraq as a federal state.

On Friday, the Kurdish Parliament unanimously ratified the referendum amid pro-independence rallies across the region.
Jerusalem, Sep 18 : Israeli officials on Monday said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to discuss the Iran nuclear deal.

Israeli officials said Netanyahu will try to persuade Trump to retract US support for the nuclear deal between the world powers and Iran, Xinhau reported.

"The most important thing in the upcoming meeting is demanding the cancellation of the nuclear deal," said Israeli cabinet minister, Yisrael Katz, who is also the minister of transportation.

In an interview with Army Radio, Katz said that "the lesson from the North Korea shows negotiations and agreements with dictatorships do not prevent the development of nuclear weapons."

Netanyahu is expected to use his speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday to reiterate his position that Iran poses a threat to the stability of the Middle East.

The hardline politician has been a vocal opponent of the nuclear deal, which was signed two years ago in Vienna between Iran and the world powers.

Israel has been worried over Iran's expansive role in Syria and Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbours.
Moscow, Sep 18 : China and Russia started the second stage of their "Joint Sea-2017" military exercises on Monday with the arrival of a Chinese naval fleet in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

The exercises were scheduled to take place in the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea, after the first stage was held on July 22-27 in the Baltic Sea, Xinhua news agency reported.

It is the first time that the venue of the drills has extended to the Okhotsk Sea. Naval forces from both sides will, also for the first time, conduct joint submarine rescue exercises and joint anti-submarine exercises.

The Chinese fleet consists of missile destroyer "Shijiazhuang", missile frigate "Daqing", comprehensive supply ship "Dongpinghu", submarine rescue ship "Changdao", a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The Russian fleet includes a large anti-submarine ship, a frigate, a rescue ship, a deep submersible rescue vehicle, two ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The "Joint Sea" drills since 2012 have fully demonstrated the resolution of Chinese and Russian navies to maintain global peace and regional stability, said Tian Zhong, Chinese general director of the exercises.
Panchkula (Haryana), Sep 18 : Final arguments in a murder case against Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh and others continued on Monday with the statements of 59 witnesses being read out in the CBI special court here.

The hearing in the murder case of former Dera manager Ranjit Singh, killed allegedly by close aides and followers of the sect chief in July 2003, will continue on Tuesday.

Held amid tight security, the sect chief took part in the proceedings through video conferencing from the Rohtak District Jail, where he is lodged following his conviction and sentencing in two cases of raping female disciples.

Tight security arrangements, including para-military forces and Haryana Police personnel, were deployed in Panchkula town, especially around the court complex in Sector 1.

The disgraced sect chief is facing trial along with seven others in two separate murder cases - of Sirsa-based journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, who had written articles critical of him and the Dera's former manager Ranjit Singh, who was believed to be privy to a number of wrong things going on inside the sect headquarters.

Final arguments in the Chhatrapati murder case will be held on September 22.

Chhatrapati was shot at in October 2002 and died in November, after battling for life in a hospital for a few days.

The sect chief is an accused in both murder cases, along with other accused, as these were carried out allegedly at his behest.

The same CBI special court had, on August 25, convicted Ram Rahim on two counts of rape of his female disciples and on August 28, sentenced him to 20 years rigorous imprisonment.

Ram Rahim's conviction had led to violence in Panchkula and Sirsa in Haryana, leaving 38 people dead and 264 injured. Isolated incidents of violence were also reported from Delhi and several other places in Punjab.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : A 26-year-old doctor working at the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital was on Monday found hanging in his rented flat in central Delhi, police said.

Police said Sidharth Shakar Mahapatra, hailing from Odisha, was found hanging from a ceiling fan by his flatmate and colleague at their accommodation in Old Rajender Nagar area.

A suicide note recovered from the spot read: "I hate the life of a prisoner. I want to be free. I want to get out of delusion."

Mahapatra was staying in the flat along with two other doctors. One of them had gone to Jharkhand while the other was on night duty on Sunday when he took his life, police said.

"We received information around 8.30 a.m. regarding the incident. Prima facie, it appears that Mahapatra committed suicide. A police team and forensic experts visited the spot to probe the case and collect samples," Deputy Commissioner of Police Mandeep Singh Randhawa said.

The flatmate returned home early on Monday morning and found the door locked from inside. After receiving no response from Mahapatra, he peeped inside and found him hanging. He then informed the police.

The body has been shifted to the RML Hospital and his family informed.
Dhaka, Sep 18 : The Bangladesh police on Monday broke up a gathering of around 20,000 members of an Islamist organisation staging a march towards the Myanmar embassy in Dhaka calling for an end to the alleged genocide against the minority Rohingya population in that country.

The demonstrators, protesting amid the full-blown Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh, were stopped several kilometres from the embassy area, Efe news reported.

"Nearly 20,000 joined the protest today. Naturally, there were some tensions, but we handled the situation with patience. It ended without any violence," Anwar Hossain, deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan police, said.

However, the police allowed 10 protest leaders to approach the embassy and present their demands.

Azizul Haque, a Hefazat-e-Islam organisation spokesperson, said that the police escorted them to the embassy but they did not find any Myanmar embassy official there.

"We were told to hand over our demands to a peon, which we did not do," Haque said.

The spokesperson said the group demanded an end to the alleged genocide in Myanmar, to halt village-razing and demanded that Myanmar officials accept the return of and give full citizen status to displaced Rohingyas.

Myanmar, a Buddhist-majority country, denies the Rohingya people citizenship because it considers them to be illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

The state imposes many restrictions on them, including limits to their freedom of movement.

More than 400,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh since August 25, in the wake of a violent military offensive launched after hundreds of Rohingya rebels assaulted police posts.

The UN believes that the number of Rohingya refugees entering Bangladesh could double in the coming weeks.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Centre on Monday told the Supreme Court not to interfere in the Rohingya issue as the move to deport them was a policy decision in the country's larger interests and that some of them were linked to Pakistani spy agency ISI and terrorist groups.

The Centre told the top court that the Rohingya matter was not justiceable and when there existed a fair procedure prescribed by law for deportation, it should be left to "the Central government to exercise its essential executive function by way of a policy decision in the larger interest of the country".

The Centre told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud that many Rohingyas "figure in the suspected sinister designs of ISI/ISIS and other extremist groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India including that of flaring up communal and sectarian violence in sensitive areas of the country".

Referring to the "illegal and anti-national activities" of some Rohingyas, the Centre in its affidavit alleged that they were engaged in mobilizing funds through hawala channels and human trafficking.

"The continued stay of Rohingyas in India apart from being absolutely illegal is found to be having national security ramification and has serious security threats," the Centre said.

Thousands of Rohingyas have poured into Bangladesh -- and some into India -- after fleeing a military offensive in Myanmar's Rakhine state.

The Centre filed the affidavit in response to a petition by Mohammad Salimullah and another Rohingya refugee challenging the move to deport them back to Myanmar, where they claim they will face certain death or torture.

Pointing that the influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar started in 2012-13, the Centre said there was an organised "influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar through agents and touts" facilitating their entry into India through West Bengal, Tripura and Assam.

Adjourning the hearing, the court asked the petitioner and others to file their rejoinder to the Centre's stand before the next date of hearing.

Asserting that the presence of Rohingyas in India would be a drain on the resources of the country and would affect the rights of the people, the Centre on Monday pointed out that some of the Rohingyas had contacts with Pakistan-based terror outfits.

It said that due to the large influx of illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries, the demographic profile of the some of the bordering states had undergone a serious change.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said that a final decision on the fate of Rohingya refugees in India would be taken by the Supreme Court.

He said the matter was being heard by the apex court and "whatever decision will be taken, it will be taken by the Supreme Court".

Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said the government's decision to deport Rohingya refugees was in the nation's interest.

"It is a sensitive matter. Whatever the government will do will be in nation's interest," Rijiju told reporters ahead of the Supreme Court hearing.
Chennai, Sep 18 : It is the murder of democracy, said Tamil Nadu's opposition leaders on Monday after Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal disqualified 18 AIADMK rebel legislators under the anti-defection law.

In a statement issued here on Monday, DMK leader M.K. Stalin said Chief Minister E. Palaniswami and Speaker Dhanapal had murdered the democracy by disqualifying the legislators who had petitioned the Governor to change the Chief Minister.

PMK founder S. Ramadoss said: "The murder of democracy is strongly condemned." He said the reasons for disqualification do not attract any provisions of the anti-defection law.

Dhanapal disqualified 18 legislators loyal to sidelined Deputy General Secretary T.T.V. Dinakaran under the anti-defection law for seeking a change of Chief Minister through their letter to Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao.

They had asked the Governor to initiate the process to install a new Chief Minister.

Stalin said even the Supreme Court had ruled that the provisions of the anti-defection law would not be attracted if legislators said that they have lost confidence in their Chief Minister.

According to Stalin, Speaker Dhanapal had lost the moral right to continue in his post and asked him to resign. Palaniswami should also resign, Stalin said.

The DMK leader said no action was taken against the AIADMK legislators including Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam when they voted against the confidence motion moved by Palaniswami some months back.

According to PMK's Ramadoss, the whip can recommend punitive action against legislators only if they act against the orders of the whip in the Assembly.

The PMK leader also charged Governor Rao with "playing an important role in the murder of democracy in the state".

Ramadoss said the Governor should have asked Palaniswami to prove his majority on the floor of the House after the rebel AIADMK MLAs petitioned him.
Dhaka, Sep 18 : The UN office in Bangladesh on Monday said that around 415,000 members of the Muslim Rohingya minority community have crossed into the country from Myanmar over the last three weeks.

Around 3,000 more people had arrived since Sunday, and Monday saw a smaller number of boats carrying Rohingyas travelling to Bangladesh compared to the previous days, the Inter-Sectoral Coordination Group said in its latest report.

"Cross-border movement on September 17 was noted to be slower than on previous days. Smaller numbers of people reportedly arrived in Cox's Bazar by boats," Efe news cited the group's report as saying.

It added that around 225,000 refugees -- 8,000 more than Sunday -- were living in spontaneous shelters, around 161,000 -- 3,000 more than the day before -- were in pre-existing camps and another 29,000 Rohingyas were housed in host communities.

"There is an increase in internal mobility within Cox's Bazar, new arrivals are reported to be moving from spontaneous settlements to makeshift settlements," the report said.

Around 415,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh since August 25, in the wake of a violent military offensive launched after Rohingya rebels attacked police posts.

The UN office in Bangladesh believes the number of refugees in Bangladesh could double in the coming weeks. It earlier said the armed offensive could be considered "ethnic cleansing".
New Delhi, Sep 18 : A British national Al Qaeda terrorist on a mission to radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight in Myanmar has been arrested in the Indian capital, police said on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police P.S. Kushwah said Samiun Rahman, 27, was arrested near Shakarpur bus stand in east Delhi on Sunday evening.

Police said the accused's mission was to set up base in Manipur or Mizoram and radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight the military in Myanmar.

Kushwah said the accused was in India for the past two months under fake identity of Shumon Haq from Kishanganj of Bihar and also had a fake voter identification card in the same name.

Rahman, who had been an operative of Al Qaeda for the last four years, had received a three-month arms training in Syria and fought in Alleppo, Kushwah said. Police also recovered a pistol and four cartridges from him.

The officer said that in the past two months the accused was in touch with different people from south India and West Bengal as well as Jammu and Kashmir.

"Initially he showed some interest in Kashmir and was talking to people over there. He wanted to know about the jihad happening in India but he didn't take it forward," Kushwah told IANS.

Kushwah said Rahman was previously working in Bangladesh and was jailed.

"He had radicalised around a dozen people in Bangladesh," he said, describing him as a "hardcore terrorist".

Rahman had visited Morocco, Turkey, Syria and Bangladesh for terrorist activities, police said.

After his release on bail from Bangladesh in April, he got directions from his group and moved to India.

In July, police received information that a terrorist of Al Qaeda was trying to set up base in Delhi to carry out terrorist activities in India.

On Sunday, police got another input that he would come to Shakarpur to meet a probable recruit, following which police arrested him.

Police said that Rahman was in contact with members of his group through Facebook, WhatsApp and Telegram.

During the past two months, he stayed at various 'Madrassas' in Kishanganj of Bihar, Hazari Bagh of Jharkhand, Delhi and other places, according to police.

It is believed that he was in touch with a number of youths to incite them to join Al Qaeda.

The officer said that Rahman's father, hailing from Bangladesh, was a businessman in London and his brother and three sisters also worked in London.

Rahman's family owned a residence in central London, Kushwah said.

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmar and taken refuge in Bangladesh -- and some in India too -- to escape violence in the wake of a military crackdown.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Janata Dal-United faction led by veteran leader Sharad Yadav has declared invalid all decisions taken by Nitish Kumar as JD-U president, terming his election to the post as technically invalid.

The faction also elected Gujarat legislator Chhotubhai Vasava as JD-U Acting President, senior JD-U leader Arun Kumar Srivastava told reporters here on Monday.

"Whatever decisions Nitish Kumar has taken after being elected party President are invalid, because Nitish Kumar's election itself is not valid," he told IANS about the decisions taken at the National Executive meet on Sunday.

"It is so because the Electoral Officer of JD-U, Anil Hegde, was appointed in an Office Bearers meeting, though in fact only the National Executive can appoint Electoral Officer. So all the elections presided by Hegde are invalid," he explained.

Asked why they were raising the issue after Nitish Kumar decided to align with the NDA, and had not done it earlier, Srivastava said a large section of JD-U members had protested and petitioned the Election Commission against Nitish Kumar's election last year, but he and a few others did not raise the issue publicly despite their reservations.

"We did not fully condone his elevation, but did not raise the issue publicly. I raised it internally in the meetings...See, parties are not formed overnight, a lot of toil goes into it. And it is not a child's play to break a party. But there is a limit to everything," he said.

Srivastava said the party's National Council, which is the "supreme decision making body", is going to meet on October 8 and will make it clear which is the real JD-U.

To a query on all the Bihar JD-U MLAs and a majority of party MPs siding with Nitish Kumar, Srivastava said: "The MLAs and MPs do not form the party organisation. They are just the crop of the party."

"In the organisation, we are strong. A majority of state unit presidents, the National Executive and the National Council members are with us," he added.

These are the same National Executive and National Council that were formed when Sharad Yadav was President, because Nitish Kumar did not form any party body, he said.

He alleged that the five state committees of which the Nitish Kumar faction is claiming support -- Bihar, Jharkhnad, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir and Dadra Nagar Haveli - have not been formed through fair elections but "by cheating".

A day after Nitish Kumar formally took over as JD-U President on October 16 last year, a number of party leaders staged a protest in New Delhi, demanding that the Election Commission declare the organisational election of the party as "null and void".

Hundreds of party workers had marched from Jantar Mantar to the EC office and submitted a memorandum alleging that party constitution was not followed in the organisational elections.

Interestingly, the press conference on Monday where Vasava's elevation was announced, the JD-U's 'Arrow' symbol was flaunted on its banner, though the case for the party symbol is being heard by the Election Commission where both the factions have given their representation.

"We have given another petition to the Election Commission on Friday (September 15). We have not received a communication regarding that from the EC so far. Our earlier petition was set aside by the EC on the grounds that it was not duly signed," Srivastava said.

He insisted that the EC had not "rejected" their plea.

"We have sought some time from the EC to submit all the relevant documents. We will do that in due course," he said.

He said by going with the BJP-led NDA, Nitish Kumar has only hurt himself more than anyone else.

"He (Nitish) was emerging as an alternate and an option at the national level. By merging with NDA he has lost all the prospects.
Hyderabad, Sep 18 : AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday said the Centre has no legal leg to stand on over the Rohingya refugees' issue in view of a Supreme Court ruling that refugees are entitled to fundamental rights under the Constitution.

Reacting to the Centre's affidavit in the apex court that the issue of Rohingya Muslim refugees from Myanmar posed serious threat to national security, the Hyderabad MP said it was propaganda by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government.

Accusing New Delhi of looking at the issue from a religious angle, he said while amending the Foreigners Act in 2015, it gave certain exemptions to Hindus, Sikhs, Parsis, Christians and Jains arriving from Pakistan and Bangladesh but the word Muslim was not included.

He said the refugees were entitled to protection of their fundamental rights under Article 12 and 14 of the Indian Constitution. Any government policy violative of the fundamental rights would be questioned by the Supreme Court, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader said.

Pointing out that not a single Rohingya was arrested in India for links with the Inter-Services Intelligence or the Islamic State or for doing 'hundi' transactions, Owaisi said even if somebody was found indulging in such activity, action should be taken against him or her under the law.

"You monitor and regulate them," he told reporters, while recalling that a similar issue had come up when Sri Lankan Tamils living in Tamil Nadu were shifted to secured camps.

The AIMIM leader urged the Union government to look at Rohingyas as a humanitarian one.

"They ran away from their country to save themselves from Myanmarese government. They have nothing to eat or wear and are jumping into the sea to save themselves. To send them back will be a great travesty of justice. I hope this will not happen," he said Owaisi said nearly three lakh Rohngiyas, including two lakh children, had taken refuge in Bangladesh.

He said India had in the past allowed Buddhists from Tibet, Tamils from Sri Lanka and Hindus from Pakistan to come into the country.
Kathmandu, Sep 18 : Nepal will sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons this week during the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said here on Monday.

Nepali Deputy Prime Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara, who is in-charge of foreign affairs, will ink the treaty on behalf of Nepal, MoFA spokesperson Bharat Raj Paudyal said.

The decision to sign the treaty shows Nepal's commitment towards the achievement of a world free from the threat posed by nuclear weapons, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Nepali Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba will be leaving for New York on Tuesday to attend the UN General Assembly session, Xinhua reported.

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, or the Nuclear Weapon Ban Treaty, is the first legally binding international agreement to comprehensively prohibit nuclear weapons, with the goal of leading towards their total elimination. It was adopted at the United Nations Conference on July 7, 2017.
Beijing, Sep 18 : Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump discussed Trump's visit to China later this year and the Korean Peninsula situation over the phone on Monday.

Xi said China and the US share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas, Xinhua news agency reported.

Xi said he was happy to maintain communications with Trump on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern.

He also said Beijing attaches great importance to Trump's state visit to China, and called on both sides to work closely to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of China-US relations.

The two sides need to strengthen high-level contacts and contacts at all levels, operate the first round of China-US social and cultural dialogue as well as law enforcement and cyber security dialogue, and extend bilateral cooperation in all fields, Xi noted.

For his part, Trump said he was looking forward to paying the state visit to China, hoping that the trip can strongly move bilateral ties further forward.

It is satisfactory for the US and Chinese heads of state to maintain close contacts and a fine working relationship, Trump said.

This year both the United States and China have important domestic agendas, the US President noted, expressing the hope that these agendas will all be smoothly carried out.

Xi also expressed sympathy and solicitude to Trump and the American people for the destruction caused by the hurricanes in the United States over the past few days while Trump expressed thanks.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the current situation on the Korean Peninsula.
Islamabad, Sep 18 : The Pakistan Peoples Party on Monday lodged three appeals against an Anti-Terror Court verdict that absolved five suspects of conspiring to assassinate the nation's first woman Prime Minister in 2007.

PPP lawyer Latfi Khosa called on the court to issue death sentences to the five suspects who allegedly belonged to the Pakistani Taliban and on August 31 were acquitted of Benazir Bhutto's murder due to a lack of evidence. Two police officers were, however, convicted of negligence and tampering with evidence, for which they were fined 500,000 rupees ($4,700) and sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Khosa said the death penalty should also apply to Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who was in power at the time of Bhutto's assassination, Efe news reported.

Musharraf left the country in March 2016 on medical grounds and did not return.

The trial started in 2008 with the five accused, but after the PPP came to power in the same year the investigation was handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency.

The trial was halted in 2009 only to be re-started in 2013.

Bhutto was killed on December 27, 2007 in a suicide attack by a militant who detonated a bomb in a rally in Rawalpindi shortly after the PPP leader returned to Pakistan from exile.

In April 2010, a UN commission held Musharraf responsible for Bhutto's murder and accused him of not providing her with adequate security.
London, Sep 18 : Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Monday said that the Foreign Minister's remarks regarding "in-house cleaning" are completely true and he agrees with the point of view that "our own house needs to be cleaned first".

Former Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan had criticised Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif's remarks in which he said authorities should first fix matters in their own "house".

Speaking to Geo News, Abbasi said: "Pakistan has made clear its national policy to America. In the UN, Pakistan will tell the world about its role in the fight against terrorism."

He also said that the government was not satisfied with the ongoing accountability drive.

Abbasi said he held a meeting with former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif - who is in London these days. "I have discussed in detail political and other issues (with Sharif) in detail," he remarked.

With regard to Sunday's victory of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz candidate and Sharif's wife, Kulsoom Nawaz, in the NA-120 by-election, the Prime Minister said the result shows that the electorate trusts Nawaz Sharif's leadership.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : A 65-year-old man was arrested on the charge of firing at and injuring a motorist in the hand during a brawl over wrong parking in south Delhi, police said on Monday.

Police said accused Rahul Rai was returning to his house in Chattarpur farms area from Nanital along with his driver Khushwinder Singh on Sunday evening when the incident occurred.

"When they neared Khokha Market at the Saket crossing on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, they came across a Swift car parked wrongly, but Khushwinder somehow managed to pass the spot," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Chinmoy Biswal said.

There was an altercation between Rai and car owner Amit, 38, following which Rai allegedly brandished a revolver and pointed it at Amit.

Amit, a resident of Krishna Park in Devli, tried to snatch the weapon but was shot in the left hand, the officer said.

Rai was sent to judicial custody by a court here, he added.
New Delhi, Sep 18 : The CBI on Monday arrested a serving soldier, Col Ajay Kumar Singh of the Army Medical Corps, and three others for leaking sensitive information about inspections, number of seats and other such matters being dealt by the Medical Council of India (MCI) with regard to various colleges.

Apart from Singh, those held include Santosh Kumar, a lower division clerk in MCI, and two private persons Susheel Kumar and Sachin Kumar. They were arrested from Delhi.

The suspects were produced before a city court which sent them to a five-day Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody.

The agency also conducted searches at nine places in Delhi, Chennai and Puducherry, including Singh's Anuj Vihar residence here, and recovered Rs 2 crore in cash along with some incriminating documents.

Santosh Kumar's residence hereand a private medical college was also raided.

Singh, who is empanelled as 'assessor' in the MCI, was about to receive Rs 10 lakh bribe through two hawala operators.

Susheel Kumar, resident of Sagarpur in west Delhi, was caught while taking the Rs 10 lakh from the two hawala operators at Chandni Chowk as alleged gratification on behalf of both public servants.

The CBI move comes two days after it registered a case against the suspects under charges of Prevention of Corruption Act and criminal conspiracy of the Indian Penal Code.

The four arrested were allegedly running a racket of leaking sensitive information related to inspections, recognition of courses, number of seats and other similar administrative matters being dealt with by the MCI with regard to various medical colleges and institutions.

The chairman of Sri Venkateshwara Medical College Hospital and Research Centre in Puducherry, B. Ramachandhiran, has also been named as an accused by the CBI in its FIR registered on Saturday.

In its FIR, the CBI said "reliable information was received that Santosh Kumar was in regular contact with B. Ramachandhiran for sharing sensitive information and helping them with respect to some administrative matter regarding inspections and approvals related to the aforesaid medical college being dealt with by the MCI".

"Santosh Kumar was also in touch with Colonel Ajay Kumar Singh of the AMC who is empanelled as an Assessor with the MCI for inspecting various medical colleges," it said, adding both were in regular touch with Ramachandhiran, had personal meetings in this regard and demanded illegal gratification for rendering support and providing information at regular intervals.

The FIR claimed Ramachandhiran had delivered one instalment of the bribe to the duo recently.

"Singh and Kumar again contacted Ramachandhiran and demanded remaining illegal gratification to them in lieu of showing favour by way of providing the aforesaid information and to provide help in inspections," the FIR stated.

"They are engaging with the owners or management of these medical institutions for obtaining huge periodical illegal gratification," it added.
Join us September 23rd for a fundraiser for the Tomlinson family Unfortunately the heroes of our local communities are often the ones last thought of when disaster strikes.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Firefighter Jacob Tomlinson and his family lost their home, pets, and possessions to a blazing house fire while he was hard at work helping his North Florida community with Hurricane Irma rescue and recovery operations.

1-800-BOARDUP, 3PHASE Business Advisors, and Atlantic Beach Brewing Company have joined together to create an important fundraiser to help the Tomlinson family in their recovery efforts. Please join local firefighters, police, and neighbors on Saturday, September 23rd, 2017, from 5:30 PM until 12:30 am at the Atlantic Beach Brewing Company. In addition to all the donations, 1-800-BOARDUP and Atlantic Beach Brewing Company will donate $1 for every beer purchased during this event.

Beth Toenies, President of 1-800-BOARDUP Corporate Headquarters, said that 1-800-BOARDUP always looks for ways to help our community, and this is a family very deserving of assistance. Unfortunately the heroes of our local communities are often the ones last thought of when disaster strikes. Help us change this stigma by supporting the Tomlinson family. Our 1-800-BOARDUP of Jacksonville Local Service Partner is working with our corporate staff to put on a great event.

In addition to donations, 1-800-BOARDUP is also seeking items for a silent auction. Michael Hosto, Founder of 1-800-BOARDUP, said, Any items you have to donate will help. We are hoping to have local artists and companies donate valuable items to bring in more donations for this family. If you have items to donate, please contact MichaelHosto(at)1-800BOARDUP.com.

If you are unable to attend this event, you can support the effort by donating here:

https://www.gofundme.com/hftjsf-help-the-tomlinson-family

1-800-BOARDUP is a values-focused organization that provides comprehensive recovery services for fire victims in need. While each office is independently owned and operated, 1-800-BOARDUP is the largest franchise company that specializes in emergency response services for disasters. If you or anyone you know is ever in need of disaster emergency services, contact us at 1-800-262-7387 (1-800-BOARDUP). For more information visit 1-800BOARDUP.com
Carousel Industries, a leader in communication and network technologies, professional and managed services, and cloud solutions, today announced that Meredith Lawrence has joined the company as Vice President of Marketing.

Lawrence reports to James Marsh, Carousels Chief Revenue Officer and is responsible for elevating Carousels brand awareness with clients and partners. She leads the companys overall marketing strategy, development and execution in the areas of channel and partner marketing, digital marketing, events, internal communications, public relations and social media.

Lawrence joins the company from long-time Carousel partner, Polycom, at a time when the company is experiencing significant revenue, client and partner growth. In addition to expanding its sales and marketing efforts, Carousel is focusing on integrating recent acquisitions, expanding its managed services offerings and collaboration solutions, and enhancing current solutions.

Were pleased to have Meredith join the Carousel team to elevate our marketing initiatives and create sustained momentum for our sales team, said Marsh. Im confident that her extensive expertise in national and regional field marketing, her experience in critical areas such as unified communication and collaboration and her knowledge of the technology partner ecosystem, will enable Carousel to continue to accelerate our growth.

Lawrence brings 20 years experience in marketing, having most recently served as Director of Field Marketing for the Americas at Polycom. In this role, Lawrence she was responsible for overall marketing strategy and execution across North America and 35 Latin and Caribbean countries. Her prior experience includes field and public sector marketing roles at Tandberg, Input and Deltek Systems. She holds a B.A. in English from George Mason University.

About Carousel Industries

Carousel Industries is a recognized leader in helping organizations evolve the way they communicate and orchestrate the flow of information throughout their networks. Carousel enables clients to connect and collaborate the way modern IT users demand and advance from their current network infrastructure to meet tomorrows standards. With deep expertise across a vast portfolio of communication, network, and security technologies, Carousel is able to design, implement, and support solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each customer. By offering professional and managed services with flexible deployments in the cloud, Carousel ensures clients achieve agility and utilize technologies in the way most effective for their business.

Founded in 1992, Carousel serves more than 6,000 clients, including 35 of the Fortune 100. Carousel has been recognized by multiple publications and industry consortiums as a top technology integrator, managed services and cloud solution providerincluding the Inc. 500/5000, Healthcare Informatics 100, and CRN MSP Elite 150. Headquartered in Exeter, RI, Carousel has 27 offices nationwidewith three Network Operating Centers.
For the past year, Galfand Berger has been working to re-design its home on the internet, which will offer an in-depth view of the firms services and the firms vast experience. With offices centrally located in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania, Galfand Berger LLP is renowned for protecting the rights of injured workers, individuals, and consumers.

The firm has taken great care in creating the websites new design, with special focus on conveying the firms mission, its history of verdicts and settlements, practice areas, client reviews, and individual attorney biographies. Visitors to the site will also be able to read blog posts, review verdicts and settlements, learn about firm news, and receive free legal resources, including the firms Auto Insurance and Workers Compensation booklets.

The new, responsive website is compatible on all devices, including cell phones, iPads, notebooks, laptops and desktops. Galfand Berger LLP, whose attorneys have been helping injured people since 1947, places great value on building and maintaining personal relationships with their clients. Areas of practice include car accidents, construction accidents, hand injuries, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, premises liability, Social Security disability, product liability, and Workers Compensation.

The attorneys at Galfand Berger LLP have earned numerous honors and awards, and have won outstanding settlements and verdicts. They are committed to treating their clients with dignity and respect as they guide them to the best possible outcome for their cases. Galfand Berger invites current clients and those seeking representations to visit the new website at http://www.galfandberger.com/ and to explore the firm and to learn about its legal team.

To learn more about Galfand Berger LLP, or to speak to an attorney, please visit http://www.galfandberger.com or call 1-800-222-USWA (8792).
Lamplight Square in The Park With Lamplight acquisition Freshwater portfolio market value has reached the $100 Million mark.

Freshwater Investments in partnership with Griffis/Blessing, Inc. finalized the acquisition of Lamplight Square at the Park Apartments in Colorado Springs on September 6th, 2017.

Lamplight Square at The Park presents a well-located, value-add opportunity within the highly sought after northern submarket of Colorado Springs, says William J. Hybl Jr., President and COO of Griffis/Blessing. Due to its favorable location, market positioning and our management team's focus on operations and capital improvements, Lamplight should prove a solid investment for our partners.

Alex Rozenfeld, Founder and Managing Partner of Freshwater Investments, states: We have a long-standing relationship with Griffis/Blessing and rely on them to manage all of our Colorado properties. The Lamplight Square acquisition, however, has marked the beginning of a new level of partnership between our firms as we combined our resources to buy this property. This is certainly a milestone worth noting and celebrating by our investors as it puts Freshwater on a trajectory towards bigger and better acquisitions. High-potential properties like Lamplight are unique and rare, so adding it to our portfolio is huge, but were not resting on our laurels and are already seeking new opportunities for our investors. With Lamplight acquisition Freshwater portfolio market value has reached the $100 Million mark - another milestone were proud of.

Built in 1984, Lamplight Square at The Park consists of 280 apartment homes with four floor plans and an average unit size of 723 square feet. Conveniently located next to Erindale Park with biking and walking trails, the property can boast unobstructed mountain views and immediate access to shopping, dining and recreation. Value-add improvements under the new ownership will include upgrading pool area to create the resort-like atmosphere, fitness center remodeling, interior updates with new appliances, fixtures and countertops, as well as replacing carpet with plank flooring.

Lamplight Square at The Park was purchased for $41.1 million. CBRE was the listing broker, and Brady ODonnell of CBRE arranged the FMAC mortgage.

Freshwater Investments is a California based private equity real estate investment firm creating opportunities for private and institutional investors to diversify portfolios and gain attractive returns through co-ownership of multifamily housing properties. For more information visit http://www.freshwaterinvestments.com

Griffis/Blessing, Inc., is the only Accredited Management Organization, AMO, headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO, with additional offices in Denver. Griffis/Blessing currently manages over four and a half million square feet of commercial space and more than 8,700 apartment units. For more information visit http://www.griffisblessing.com.
Suzanne B. O'Brien RN "We will remember the end of life experience of our loved ones forever. We do not get a second chance to get it right. Death can be the natural, sacred, experience it was meant to be". Suzanne B. O'Brien RN

Stirred by her experience as a hospice and oncology nurse, Suzanne B. O'Brien RN created two free educational programs to help teach communities how to care for the dying. "In my experience, there are two things that can make end of life better by 90%. The first is bringing back the knowledge of how to care for someone who is terminally ill. This was a skill that 100 years ago was handed down generation to generation. We have, as a culture, lost that skill," said O'Brien. To help change that, O'Brien created The Doulagivers End of Life Doula Family Caregiver Training. This 1 day workshop will teach families everything they need to know on how to care for their loved ones. The workshop covers what to do from the time someone gets a terminal diagnosis all the way through to when someone dies. This workshop uses the Doulagivers 3 Phase End of Life Doula Holistic Model of Care and addresses the needs of both the patient and caregiver physically, emotionally and spiritually.

The second is The Doulagivers Discussions on Death and Dying Seminar Series.

Following in the footsteps of the successful Death Cafe movement, Doulagivers is offering free community education regarding all things end of life.

Death Cafes are a wonderful way for people to come together and discuss death in a safe and respected space. There is a strict policy that does not allow for any teaching or for leading to any specific conclusion. I have found personally that many people not only want to share their feelings regarding death, but are ready to learn all they can so that they can make empowered, informed choices for their own lives. Suzanne B. OBrien RN

The Doulagivers Discussions on Death and Dying Seminar Series will provide such a forum. Beginning on October 5th at The St. Agnes New York Public Library on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, The Doulagivers Discussions on Death and Dying Seminar Series will be held monthly for two hour periods and are free of charge. They will consist of an opening question, group discussion, segment of teaching and Q&A session. The seminar will cover everything from advance directives to how to have a home wake.

Death is the second leading fear in the United States. "The key to changing this is to have opportunities to learn about end of life and end of life care before we need it," said O'Brien. It is inevitable that we will all be touched by end of life. With the right kindness, education and support, end of life can be the natural experience it was meant to be.

Upcoming Events

Doulagivers Discussions on Death and Dying Seminar Series

October 5th 5pm-6:45pm

New York Public Library

444 Amsterdam Avenue

New York, NY 10024

End of Life Doula Family Caregiver Training. October 14th 1pm-4pm

New York Public Library

328 E.67th St.

New York, NY 10065

All community events are free. Register at http://www.doulagivers.com under "events".

About Suzanne B. OBrien RN

OBrien is a former Hospice and Oncology Nurse in Manhattan, New York. OBrien is the founder of The International Doulagivers Association. She created The End of Life Doula Practitioners Certification Training and has trained End of Life Doulas from all around the world. O'Brien is committed to providing support and education in the hopes that everyone everywhere can have the best end of life experience possible.
Mayor Jeff Longwell Hosts UNCF Wichita Mayors Luncheon

Event chaired by Vice Mayor LaVonta Williams

WHAT: The Honorable Jeff Longwell will once again host the annual fundraising event benefiting Kansas students and UNCF-member institutions. UNCF offers scholarships and other academic support to African American college students who have an interest in developing and applying an entrepreneurial mindset to their career pursuits. In addition to this program, UNCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to students attending colleges in Kansas.

I urge you to help us in our quest to support educational opportunity growth in our community, said Longwell. The funds raised at this luncheon will help students in our community to pursue their dreams and raise themselves, and thusly our city and region, up through higher knowledge and personal betterment.

WHO: UNCF and the City of Wichitas Mayor Jeff Longwell

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 5, noon  1 p.m.

WHERE: Hyatt Regency Wichita

400 W. Waterman St., Wichita, KS 67202

This years sponsors include Koch Industries, Cox Communications, Wichita State University and Wichita Ministerial League.

To purchase tickets, which are $50, please contact the UNCF St. Louis local office at 314.241.5958. If you are unable to attend but want to make a difference, text UNCFSTL to 50555.

Stay connected throughout the year by visiting uncf.org/stlouis

About UNCF

UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nations largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, A mind is a terrible thing to waste. Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF.
At the 2017 E Source Forum in Denver, Colorado, E Source announced the winners of the 2017 Utility Ad Awards Contest. First and second place in the category of Best Overall Campaign for Non-Investor-Owned Utility went to Austin Energy and OUC, respectively. PSE earned first place in the category of Best Overall Campaign for Investor-Owned Utility and National Grid earned second place. The contest was open to electric and gas utilities in the US and Canada.

An independent group of judges selected the winners based on message, creativity, results, call to action or brand connection, and overall impression. Judges included Mindy Cheval, University of Colorado at Boulder, School of Journalism and Mass Communication; Shawn Silzer, CLCG Enterprises; Lucia Riley, SAS Institute; Kelly Diekman, KDesign Inc.; and Max Walter, Hollister Creative.

Over the past nine years of this contest, weve been in the unique position of witnessing utilities adapt to the changing advertising landscape, says Kym Wootton, vice president of Marketing at E Source. The introduction of new technologies and platforms has enabled utilities to truly become customer-centric and adapt their marketing strategies to evolving customer tastes and communication preferences. E Source congratulates these innovative marketing and advertising teams!

2017 E Source Utility Ad Awards Contest Winners

Best Overall Campaign for Non-Investor-Owned Utility

1. Austin Energy

2. OUC

Best Overall Campaign for Investor-Owned Utility

1. PSE

2. National Grid

Best Broadcast Television Ad

1. SMUD

2. PSE

Best Broadcast Radio Ad

1. Colorado Springs Utilities

2. Union Gas

Best Digital Display Ad

1. Manitoba Hydro

2. FirstEnergy Corp.

Best Print Ad

1. BGE (tie)

1. Nashville Electric Service (tie)

2. Oncor

Best Event/Experiential Marketing

1. Austin Energy

2. KCP&L

Best Outdoor Ad

1. National Grid

2. OUC

Best Digital Streaming Content

1. Westar Energy

2. Manitoba Hydro

Best Social Media Ad

1. Colorado Springs Utilities

2. Efficiency Vermont

E Source presented OUC with the Crowd-Pleaser Award, which was based on online recognition. Facebook users voted by liking their favorite print advertisement on the E Source Facebook page.

The winning ads were honored at a special awards luncheon held during the 2017 E Source Forum. The winning ads from 2017 and prior years can be viewed at http://www.esource.com/adcontest-winners. Photos from the awards luncheon can be found on the E Source Facebook album.

About E Source

For 30 years, E Source has been providing research, consulting, and market research to more than 300 utilities and their partners. This guidance helps our customers advance their efficiency programs, enhance customer relationships, and use energy more efficiently.
Social media offers a lot of plastic surgery information, but verifying that it's coming from reliable sources requires research. While its a perfectly good idea to use social media as a way to explore the many options available to todays patients, individuals need to exercise significant caution when it comes time to actually select a plastic surgeon for a given procedure.

A September 1 article on Chicago Tonight discusses a recent study which found that 26 percent of the leading 163 posts for the most popular Instagram hashtags relating to plastic surgery came from physicians who are actually not board certified plastic surgeons. Beverly Hills based plastic surgeon Payam Jarrah-Nejad, M.D., F.I.C.S., F.A.C.S., known more casually to his patients as Dr. J, says that, while its a perfectly good idea to use social media as a way to explore the many options available to todays patients, individuals need to exercise significant caution when it comes time to actually select a plastic surgeon for a given procedure.

Dr. J, who himself maintains a presence on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and elsewhere, notes that these sites show many images of work that doctors say they have performed, but they do not vet the credentials of the medical professionals who use them. Thats why its extremely important to take a close look at doctors backgrounds to make sure they are qualified and reputable. Most importantly, Dr. J notes that patients should insist on only considering board certified plastic surgeons. The doctor, who is actually double board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, notes that board certification means that surgeons have met the rigorous standards created by leading physicians in their field to ensure that he or she can be trusted to perform operations safely and effectively.

The Chicago Tonight article points out that the consequences of an inexperienced or uninformed doctor making a seemingly minor mistake during a procedure can be life threatening and may lead to results that are disappointing or worse. Dr. J says that, while plastic surgery has become extremely safe and highly effective, the choice of the right surgeon is essential. He notes that there is an important aesthetic dimension to plastic surgery, and for procedures ranging from a rhinoplasty (nose job) to a thigh lift, its important to have a doctor who has demonstrated his or her ability to sculpt results that look both pleasing and natural.

Dr. J adds that the stories about botched procedures performed by cut-rate practitioners are legion and that patients should consider the often extremely large costs associated with revision procedures to repair failed operations. Leaving aside the stress and pain associated with a bad plastic surgery, Dr. J. points that its vastly less expensive to select an outstanding plastic surgeon in the first place, so that no revisions will be needed.

Interested readers can learn more about Dr. J and his qualifications by calling his office at 310-683-0200. Before and after images can be found on Dr. Js site and patient testimonials can be found on Yelp and RealSelf.
Welcomemat Services, Americas leading new mover marketing franchise, is poised to close out 2017 with the strongest growth momentum in its history. Through the first half of the year, the brand celebrated 20 percent year-to-date growth over the same period last year and welcomed nine new franchise partners in key markets including Wisconsin, Illinois, Delaware and Kentucky. Welcomemat Services now aims to end the year with more than 60 open locations across the country, fueling even stronger momentum into 2018.

Founded in 2003, Welcomemat Services has found rapid success helping small businesses flourish in their local communities by connecting them with potential customers. Becoming a true community partner within each territory has allowed Welcomemat to expand its fine-tuned franchise model into new markets across the U.S. While traditional marketing strategies like print and direct mail remain the base of the companys approach, innovations in social media, data modeling, and digital data tracking have allowed the brand stay ahead of the industry and allow each franchisee to operate independently as a community marketing partner in neighborhoods across the country.

Our local franchisees have been extremely successful creating relationships with local business owners nationwide for more than a decade, and we continue to improve our services to meet the growing demand, said Brian Mattingly, founder and CEO of Welcomemat Services. Its been exciting to watch our team enter new markets and help shape the local-business landscape in the local areas they serve. These driven entrepreneurs have incredibly bright futures with our brand.

Welcomemat celebrated a strong start to the year with recognition from Franchise Business Review as a Top Franchise for superior customer satisfaction and earned a place in Entrepreneur Magazine as a Top Advertising Franchise for 2017. Welcomemat Services was also once again named to Entrepreneurs Franchise 500 list, landing at number 207 in 2017, up 100 spots from the previous year.

Welcomemat is further building on its growing reputation for franchise industry innovation with the launch of a new product line known as Engage D/O which offers a full migration of digital equipment to produce custom-color content. Engage D/O has already resulted in exciting new product lines that include digital disruptive postcards built on data modeling, social media services utilizing proprietary modeling, and email and review management offerings customized for clients.

We are extremely proud of the recognition weve received so far this year because its proof that our unique strategy is moving us in the right direction, said Mattingly. Our priority is to find new ways to improve the quality of service we provide to our clients so our franchisees can continue helping local entrepreneurs grow their businesses. This laser focus remains the key to our success.

Paving a successful path for the remainder of the year, Welcomemat is focused on development in key markets throughout the Midwest and Southeast including Raleigh, Richmond, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Nashville, Cleveland, Kansas City and St. Louis. With its low initial investment for a home-based model ranging from $59,580 to $87,930 and a leased office model ranging from $61,180 to $91,330, Welcomemat Services continues to entice business-savvy entrepreneurs eager to enter a rapidly growing industry.

Were continuing to enter new markets and build out our already established customer base nationwide, said Mattingly. We have had an exceptional year so far and were on track for even bigger success stories in the years to come.

ABOUT WELCOMEMAT SERVICES

A leader in the $133-billion local advertising industry, Welcomemat Services is a new mover marketing and technology company that provides loyalty marketing solutions designed to target families who have recently changed their address. The brand was named to Entrepreneurs 2015, 2016 and 2017 Franchise 500." In 2017, the brand was named Entrepreneur's 'Best of the Best' in the Advertising Services category. Since 2003, Welcomemat Services technological innovation and marketing sophistication has enabled the brand to change the face of the direct-mail marketing industry. It offers local, regional, and national businesses & organizations unprecedented access to information about their new mover clients. For more information on Welcomemat Services, visit http://www.welcomematservices.com

###
MOR-Vision STSK6630 Mirror/Monitor Combo Backup Camera System

The patent infringement action involved Roscos patented technology that covers Roscos MOR-Vision Mirror/Monitor Combo Backup Camera System, which offers easily replaceable modular mirror and monitor components, unique glass reflectivity and ultra bright imaging for safe school bus operation with automatic monitor view changes. Roscos Patents involved in the lawsuit were United States Patent No. 9,215,429 and United States Patent No. 9,319,639 (collectively, Rosco Patents).

The parties have now settled the matter amicably. Rostra will discontinue offering or selling this mirror system for the school bus industry. In turn, Rosco has dismissed the case against Rostra.

About Rosco, Inc. - Rosco is a leading global manufacturer of automotive vision safety products to the bus and truck marketplace. Founded in New York City in 1907 as a safety product manufacturer for automotive and aeronautical markets, Rosco moved to its current location in Queens, New York in 1974. Rosco products are designed and manufactured in the USA and include mission critical driving safety aides such as interior and exterior mirrors, sun visors, backup and side view cameras, video recording systems, sensor products and collision avoidance systems. Today, Rosco is the largest manufacturer of bus mirrors in North America. Roscos staff has grown to over 250 employees in facilities totaling 150,000 square feet. Distinguished bus and truck manufacturers installing Rosco products on new vehicles include Freightliner / Thomas Built Buses, Blue Bird, Navistar / IC Bus, Collins Bus, REV Group Companies, Forest River Companies and many others.
PeaceTech Accelerator Technology is empowering citizens in many areas of the world, enabling better transfer of information and creating more security, transparency and accountability. Its important to champion these impactful initiatives, and we are proud to be a part of the C5A Peacetech Accelerator program."

C5 Accelerate (C5A), the Cloud Innovation Centre for best-of-breed startups, has today announced that it has entered into a new Innovation Partnership with SAP National Security Services, Inc. (SAP NS2) the independent, US subsidiary SAP, and leading provider of national security enterprise technology. This partnership will further strengthen the work being done by C5As Washington PeaceTech Accelerator to identify and nurture rising stars within the global peacetech market. The Peacetech Accelerator is operated in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and PeaceTech Lab, and is focused on attracting and monitoring companies seeking to tackle national security issues and address the root causes of conflict, particularly in crisis zones.

SAP NS2 will be bringing to bear its expertise around cutting-edge technology, data management and advanced analytics. The partnership comes at an especially exciting and opportune time, with the second group of cohort companies set to enter the Peacetech Accelerator in September. This follows the success of the first cohort, which entered the accelerator in April 2017 and graduated in May. This solid foundation has led to 69 companies applying for the second cohort program. These companies went through a detailed review process before the top eight were selected to enter the program in mid-September. Cohorts will join the accelerator for eight weeks before presenting their investment case to the global investment community on November 1, 2017 in Washington D.C. Further details of the eight companies can be found in the appendix below.

SAP NS2 will also be participating in the inaugural Shield in the Cloud Innovation Challenge, hosted and managed by C5A, which is the first global anti-corruption challenge for the most innovative start-ups, corporations, not-for-profits and governments working in cloud-based technology to promote transparency and accountability compliance worldwide. Shield in the Cloud will run until December 2017 and the winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Washington D.C. on February 27, 2018.

Eva-Maria Dimitriadis, COO at C5A said, The strength of any accelerator program lies in the mentors and instruction that they provide to young companies. Were pleased to welcome such an influential name as SAP NS2 to the program as they have many important lessons to give our companies, as well as being able to provide concrete examples of how to be successful in the tech field. As the new companies join the program were really looking forward to see how their potential develops.

Mark Testoni, President & CEO at SAP NS2 said, Technology is empowering citizens in many areas of the world, enabling better transfer of information and creating more security, transparency and accountability. Whether the technology is used to counter terrorism, support law enforcement, reduce the cyber risk aperture or counter corruption, these efforts can result in safer and more stable communities. Its important to us to be champion these impactful initiatives, and we are proud to be a part of the C5A Peacetech Accelerator program.

For press enquiries contact:

John Merva on: jmerva(at)hudsonsandler.com or +44 207 796 4133

Or

Dmitra Hatzudis on: Dimitra.hatzudis(at)c5capital.com or +1 202 600 1718

About C5

Part of the C5 Capital Group, C5 Accelerate is a London, Washington D.C., and Bahrain based technology investment firm. C5 Accelerate is developing a Cloud Accelerator Cluster in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the United States, alongside Amazon Web Services.

Its mission is to accelerate best-of-breed start-ups to meet the growth opportunity being created by the geographic expansion of AWS, the worlds leading cloud computing platform.

Further information about C5A is available from: http://www.c5accelerate.com/

About SAP NS2

At SAP NS2, we are driven to defend. We provide innovative computing, analytics, and cloud solutions that accelerate the pace of data fusion, analysis and action. Our solutions help leaders better manage the business of the mission from the back office to the battlefield, delivering a critical offset over the adversary. As an independent subsidiary of SAP, were backed by game changing technology, staffed by 100% U.S. citizens on U.S. soil, dedicated to meeting the unique mission requirements of U.S. national security organizations. Learn more at http://www.sapns2.com.

Appendix: Peacetech Accelerator Cohort 2

Name: Global Impact Strategies (giStrat)

Business: Using advanced decision analytics and machine learning to make smarter decisions faster

Location of incorporation: Delaware, USA

Type: For-profit

Established: 2016

Founders: Jerry White and Amir Bagherpour

URL: https://www.gistrat.com

Name: Annona

Business: From seed to store, Ona is a mobile application transparently incorporating small-scale farmers into global supply chains

Location of incorporation: Washington, DC

Type: For-profit

Established: June 2015

Founders: Ashley King-Bischof and Zeluis Teixeira

URL:http://annona.co

Name: RedCrow

Business: Risk mitigation and data analysis in the Middle East and north Africa

Location of incorporation: Delaware, USA

Type: For-profit

Established: 2014

Founders: Hussein Nasser-Eddin and Laila Akel

URL: http://www.redcrow.co

Name: Global Scribes: Youth Uniting Nations

Nonprofit: Connecting youth to build communities through writing and creative expression

Location of incorporation: Harmony, North Carolina

Type: Not-for-profit

Date of founding: 2014

Founder: Cynthia English

URL: http://www.globalscribes.org

Name: Hala Systems, Inc.

Business: Technology-driven solutions to reduce trauma and save lives in the world's toughest humanitarian environments

Location of incorporation: Delaware, USA

Type: For-profit

Date of founding: 2015

Founders: John Jaeger, Dave Levin and Dr Franz Busse

URL: http://halasystems.com

Name: Keshif

Business: Converting raw data into interactive, visual and intuitive dialogues for organizations

Location of incorporation: Arlington, Virginia

Type: For-Profit

Date of founding: 2016

Founder: Mehmet Adil Yalcn

URL: https://keshif.me

Name: Primo Wind

Business: Changing how and where the world uses clean and efficient wind energy

Location of incorporation: San Diego, California

Type: For-Profit

Date of founding: 2016

Founder: Ned McMahon

URL: http://primowind.com/

Name: MARK Labs

Business: Using AI and blockchain to measure your social impact

Location of incorporation: Delaware, USA

Type: For-Profit

Date of founding: 2015

Founders: Kevin Barrow, Anthony Emtman, Melissa Bradley

URL: https://www.marklabs.co/
American IRA CEO, Jim Hitt Its important for investorsincluding independent contractorsto know that they have plenty of options for protecting their assets and making large contributions that provide them with ample opportunity to grow that wealth into a large retirement nest egg.

For independent contractors, the idea of substantial retirement savings in a protected IRA or 401(k) plan might seem like its reserved for those with employers and benefits. But as Jim Hitt, CEO of American IRA in North Carolina, recently explained at the American IRA blog, there is a powerful alternative for those who work for themselves: the Self-Directed Solo 401(k) plan.

This type of plan is much like other 401(k) plans in that it has high limits for retirement contributions, allowing independent contractors to put aside large amounts of money with the protections of a retirement account. There are some additional requirements and restrictions for the Self-Directed Solo 401(k) plan, however, to which investors will want to pay attention.

Which advantages does a Self-Directed Solo 401(k) confer on an independent contractor? In the article posted at http://www.AmericanIRA.com, Jim Hitt explained that these include the ability to self-direct ones own investments, including making investments in LLCs, private equity, and even rental real estate properties. For independent contractors who want to see aggressive growth from their 401(k) plans, these investment opportunities can represent important vehicles for future expansion.

Jim Hitt also pointed out the high contribution limits. A Roth IRA, for example, tends to have low contribution limits at just $5,500 a yeardepending on an individuals circumstances. The Self-Directed Solo 401(k) plan, however, can see a contribution maximum of $54,000, which is a tremendous way for the self-employed to catch up on their retirement contributions if they havent made them to a large degree in their younger years.

Independent contractors sometimes feel as though theyre on the outside looking in when it comes to retirement, said Jim Hitt. Its important for investorsincluding independent contractorsto know that they have plenty of options for protecting their assets and making large contributions that provide them with ample opportunity to grow that wealth into a large retirement nest egg.

About:

American IRA, LLC was established in 2004 by James C. Hitt in Asheville, NC.

The mission of American IRA is to provide the highest level of customer service in the self-directed retirement industry. Mr. Hitt and his team have grown the company to over $250 million in assets under administration by educating the public that their self-directed IRA account can invest in a variety of assets such as real estate, private lending, limited liability companies, precious metals and much more.

As a self-directed IRA administrator they are a neutral third party. They do not make any recommendations to any person or entity associated with investments of any type (including financial representatives, investment promoters or companies, or employees, agents or representatives associated with these firms). They are not responsible for and are not bound by any statements, representations, warranties or agreements made by any such person or entity and do not provide any recommendation on the quality profitability or reputability of any investment, individual or company. The term "they" refers to American IRA, located in Asheville, NC.
This software is user-friendly and convenient for all parties involved in the regulatory operation. It has robust security, real-time dashboards, and comprehensive and easy-to-use reporting tools

Mitchell Humphrey & Co. will be participating in this years annual International Association of Transportation Regulators (IATR) Conference in Austin, TX, September 24  27, 2017. This Conference is attended by transportation regulators from all over the world.

This industry is continually undergoing change. Regulators need a system to automate and streamline their operations; a system with the flexibility to adapt to an ever-changing industry. That is what we offer with this module of FastTrackGov, stated Beth Humphrey-Watts, Account Executive, and Vehicle for Hire Industry Specialist at Mitchell Humphrey & Co.

Mitchell Humphrey & Co.s FastTrackGov Vehicle for Hire Regulation and Reporting Software automates driver, owner and vehicle registration, licensing/permitting, inspections, enforcement, medallion inventory tracking, customer compliments or complaints, and numerous other functions specific to the vehicle for hire industry. The software has been designed to benefit all stakeholders in the vehicle for hire industry, including: drivers, owners, inspectors, enforcement staff, citizens, and management.

This software is user-friendly and convenient for all parties involved in the regulatory operation. It has robust security, real-time dashboards, and comprehensive and easy-to-use reporting tools, explains Beth Humphrey-Watts.

About Mitchell Humphrey & Co.

Mitchell Humphrey & Co. offers a broad range of software including Financials, Community Development, and Vehicle for Hire Regulation applications. Visit http://www.fasttrackgov.com/solutions/vfh/ or http://www.mitchellhumphrey.com to learn more.
Eric Sockol, Managing Director - Consero Global Having served as the CFO of several high growth companies, I'm used to being an active member of the executive team as companies launch their business and scale.

Consero Global, a technology enabled finance & accounting services company that provides a comprehensive financial solution to growing companies, announced the hiring of Eric Sockol as the new Managing Director for the company's Boston office. The move comes as Consero looks to meet the needs of a diverse and rapidly growing business community through its combination of back-office finance functions, industry leading software and best practices needed to gain clarity and scalability.

"The Consero solution is a perfect match for the Boston business community. Growing and successful companies demand more clarity around their business performance. Consero has successfully reduced risks and costs for customers while enabling companies to focus their resources on strategic initiatives. Sockol further commented, Conseros innovative solution provides companies with a proven and powerful alternative to address the demands of their financial operations.

Sockol's 30-year career spans comprehensive involvement in finance, corporate governance, M&A, human resources, corporate strategy and operations on a global basis. Prior to joining Consero Global, he held the position of Chief Financial Officer at six technology companies. He holds a Bachelor's of Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and is a Certified Public Accountant.

"Having served as the CFO of several high growth companies, I'm used to being an active member of the executive team as companies launch their business and scale, Sockol commented. Over the last three decades I have been fortunate to work with exceptional companies and progressive business leaders which have provided me extensive exposure into numerous financial transactions and industries.

With the help of proven leaders like Eric, Consero Global is working to redefine business-as-usual for finance and accounting functions, providing a comprehensive solution to organize financial data, quickly generate reports and insights, and improve operational efficiency, said Bill Klein, President of Consero. We back up our services with world-class support and expertise, helping executives and finance pros uncover hidden opportunities within the data they are already collecting every day, he added.

About Consero Global:

Founded in 2006 by Scott Tynes and Bill Klein, Consero Global disrupts the way businesses build and maintain their finance & accounting function. Through a cloud based platform, Consero delivers the financial clarity and efficiency needed to drive a business forward. Strategic CFOs are adopting Consero's cutting-edge, Finance as a Service model to free up time and understand how the business is performing. Serving over 250 clients, Consero provides the control and insight needed to steer businesses toward success. Contact Consero Global for more information about gaining greater control of your financial operations.
DRT Strategies (DRT) (http://www.drtstrategies.com) will host its 5th annual 5K Race for D.C. Kids to be held at Bluemont Park on October 7, 2017. The 5K run is an out and back course along a beautiful, almost flat stretch of the Washington and Old Dominion Trail. Kristen Berset-Harris of WUSA 9s Great Day Washington will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.

Inaugurated in 2012, DRTs annual 5K Race for DC Kids has generated over $50,000, attracting hundreds of runners in support of over 3,000 youth in the Washington, D.C. metro region who receive personal mentoring at the Youth Leadership Foundation (YLF). YLF was recently selected by the Catalogue of Philanthropy: Greater Washington as One of the Best Nonprofits as part of the Class of 2017-18.

As its official corporate charity, DRT has contributed over $100,000 to the YLF over the past ten years. This past summer, DRT led high school students through workshops as a part of YLF's Inaugural Spirit of Service Challenge, a 5-week high-energy summer business plan competition. For this program, the DRT team hosted and mentored students, providing them with the business acumen to develop key insights into their own business plans, as well as to guide them through issues surrounding the start-up of any business enterprise.

At DRT, we are committed to fostering a company culture that thrives on a pay-it-forward philosophy which includes our relationship with our community, remarked Susan M. Kidd, founder and CEO of DRT Strategies. In the spirit of this, DRT is honored to serve as a mentor and sponsor of the YLF, as its mission closely aligns with DRTs values and is part of our effort to give where we live to support children - our future leaders.

Additional Race for D.C. Kids event details can be found on the YLF website at http://www.helpingkids.org/race4dckids.

About DRT Strategies

DRT Strategies, Inc. (DRT) is a leading management and technology consulting firm providing information technology (IT) solutions, health information management, program management, and financial management solutions to federal agencies, the U. S. Navy and enterprise clients in the technology and financial services sectors. The company holds ISO 9001:2008 certification, has achieved CMMI-DEV Level 3, and is a certified woman-owned, small business (WOSB). DRT is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, with offices in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Georgia, and Kansas City, Missouri. More information on the company can be found at http://www.drtstrategies.com.

About Youth Leadership Foundation

This year marks the YLFs 20th Anniversary. Since its founding, YLF has built the character of over 3,000 students and has seen 97% of them graduate from high school throughout the nations capital. Last year, the YLFs character-building programs served 348 youths in all wards of D.C. and Prince Georges County through 60 mentors. As a result of their participation with YLF, 92% of YLF students have developed greater self-confidence; 83% reported positive changes in study and work habits; and 86% became more goal-oriented. To learn more about the YLF, please visit http://www.helpingkids.org.
The DiSTI Corporation, the worlds leading provider of 3D virtual training solutions and graphical user interface software, has been ranked as a Top 100 Company for Working Families by the Orlando Sentinel for the sixth consecutive year. The Top 100 Companies for Working Families award recognizes Central Florida companies that maintain a beneficial and favorable work-life balance for their employees, through comprehensive and creative benefits, packages, and programs.

DiSTI is recognized for its wide-ranging benefits, employee engagement activities, and employee recognition. Company benefits include a comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plan, along with flexible spending reimbursements. To foster a productive, motivational work environment, a complimentary trip is offered to employees each year. To ensure work-life balance, employees are offered flexible work schedules. Employees are also acknowledged with awards such as job performance, years of service, and innovative solutions. DiSTI believes in maintaining a pleasing employee experience to further promote, growth, productivity, and innovation.

Its an honor to be a consecutive recipient of this award. We are continually striving to make our work environment engaging and family oriented. Employee satisfaction is a key factor for a successful business, said Joe Swinski, President and CEO of DiSTI.

# # #

The DiSTI Corporation is the worlds leading provider of 3D virtual training solutions and graphical user interface software.

Our flagship product, GL Studio, delivers advanced high-performance 3D user interfaces to the aerospace, automotive, medical, and training industries. Leading global manufacturers such as Jaguar Land Rover, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin choose GL Studio for its performance, fidelity, and reliability in interface development and deployment. Whether for avionics, instrument clusters, infotainment systems, medical devices, or flight simulators, GL Studio exceeds the developers interface demands.

DiSTIs user interface technology also expands into 3D virtual maintenance training solutions. DiSTIs VE Studio is the worlds leading platform for managing the development of complex 3D virtual environments for use on desktop, mobile, and virtual and mixed reality training applications. VE Studio manages the entire development process including requirements analysis, content development, and automated software builds and regression testing.

For more information on The DiSTI Corporation contact Scott Ariotti at sariotti(at)disti(dot)com
(L-R): 6S Marketing's Co-Founders, Chris Breikss and John Blown "Being shortlisted speaks to our commitment to innovation and improvement in all aspects of our work  from the innovative strategies we execute to our hardworking team members."  Chris Breikss

The Google Premier Partner Awards recognize and celebrate innovative digital marketing campaigns from the very best agencies across North America. Over a thousand U.S. and Canadian partners were in the running for the awards this year.

6S Marketings nomination for the Search Innovation Award comes from consistently growing client revenue year over year. In particular, attention was paid to the agencys work with an eCommerce client in a very competitive market, which has seen significant growth across its paid search advertising campaigns.

Chris Breikss, President and Co-Founder of 6S Marketing, and Raelene Thomas, Operations Manager, are attending the North America Premier Partner Summit as well as the Google Partner Summit in New York to provide agency insights on how the Partner program can evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of clients. Chris Breikss will be speaking at the Summit on a panel titled Managing for Growth: Shaping a Sustainable, High-Performance Organization.

As a Google Premier Partner, were able to show clients we have what it takes to help them rapidly accelerate their growth online, said Chris. Being shortlisted speaks to our commitment to innovation and improvement in all aspects of our work  from the innovative strategies we execute to our hardworking team members.

6S Marketing is one of a select group of leading agencies that meet the stringent criteria for the Google Premier Partner designation. This means the agency has exceeded the requirements for Google Partner status  demonstrated skill and expertise, as well as client revenue growth  and has reached a further certification and performance level to achieve Premier status. Every member of 6S Marketings team holds a certification in analytics, search, display, mobile, video, or shopping campaigns  furthering their strength in connecting paid media investment to driving business performance.

The Google Partner program is designed to help all types of businesses get online and acquire new customers. To qualify, agencies must pass a series of exams, and prove their expertise in using and applying Googles advertising products. For clients, they are reassured that they are working with a reputable provider that is approved by Google.

About 6S Marketing

6S Marketing is a leading digital agency in New York, Vancouver, and Toronto that transforms businesses for the digital age. For over 17 years, the ROI-driven direct response firm has helped clients revolutionize their businesses online. 6S focuses on emergent tactics such as marketing automation, social media and content strategy, online media buying, programmatic advertising, and multi-lingual campaigns. They execute sophisticated digital strategies for clients such as Mountain Equipment Co-op, Cirque du Soleil, Pirelli Tires, KLM Airlines, and Bulletproof Coffee. For more information, visit: http://www.6Smarketing.com.
Joe Carson, Chief Strategy Officer of Resilinc Resilinc is on a path towards explosive growth with our Risk and EventWatch solutions being broadly embraced, as well the successful adoption of Resilincs R Score as an industry standard metric for resiliency

Resilinc, the leading provider of end-to-end supply chain resiliency solutions, today announced the appointment of Joe Carson as Chief Strategy Officer, joining the Executive Leadership Team. Joe is a seasoned industry leader, whose most recent role was serving at Micron Technology as their Chief Procurement Officer out of Singapore. In his leadership roles at Micron, and prior to that at Juniper Networks, Joe helped create robust and enduring supply chain risk management organizations and award winning best practices.

Resilinc is on a path towards explosive growth with our Risk and EventWatch solutions being broadly embraced, as well the successful adoption of Resilincs R Score as an industry standard metric for resiliency, said Bindiya Vakil, CEO and founder. For us to scale and get to the next operational level, we need someone who understands us inside out, and most importantly, who can also represent our customers needs and goals.

Im excited to be joining Resilinc now, says Carson. First, after implementing Resilinc at two different companies, I am convinced we have the most comprehensive solution in the industry. Carson continues, Second, I can see the time has come for managing risk through visibility and analysis that delivers real in-year savings for companies willing to believe and invest in themselves. I couldnt give up a front-row seat as this industry takes off!

Joe Carson on why Supply Chain Risk Management is an imperative for todays supply chain:



About Resilinc

Resilinc is the trusted provider of supply chain risk and resiliency solutions. Resilinc provides a patented, digital, automated and networked platform to allow customers to collaborate seamlessly with their direct and sub-tier suppliers. With over 2 million parts tracked across 85,000 global sites and more than 70,000 sub-tier connections, Resilinc has digitized the supply chain experience. Resilincs approval-based mapping solution enables customers and suppliers to exchange supply chain intelligence with each other securely, and accelerates the supply chain visibility journey, from years to weeks at a fraction of the cost. Resilinc EventWatch 24x7 solution monitors 30 different risk events in 44 languages and collects impact confirmations in real time from tens of thousands of users during an event, allowing customers to engage and resolve issues efficiently and with precision during disruptions. Resilincs solution is transformative, in that it disrupts the traditional approach of throwing more resources at problems, and enables executives to harness the power of information and automation in to predict issues proactively and resolve them quickly.
Ben Kessler, VP of Finance for 7Summits I'm excited to join 7Summits now as the company prepares to expand its markets and platform position to drive even more value for our customers.

7Summits is proud to announce the addition of Ben Kessler as Vice President of Finance. Ben brings a decade of experience in strategy, P&L optimization, capital raising, and M&A.

As VP of Finance for 7Summits Ben will be responsible for ensuring that the finance organization can enable the company to drive continued growth, capitalizing on the growing worldwide demand for community-led, multi-cloud solutions that drive greater revenue, productivity, and profitability across a full spectrum of industries. "I am excited to welcome Ben to the 7Summits management team and am confident that he has the right expertise to execute and evolve our financial operations strategy to support 7Summits' growth plans, said Paul Stillmank, CEO and Founder of 7Summits. "Ben brings essential skills to our finance and accounting team from his experience at several marquis companies where he was instrumental in providing finance strategy and leadership to help organizations get to the next level.

Ben was most recently with McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm, where he worked with a range of companies and their financial operations. Prior to that, Ben was with Lincoln International, a global mid-market investment bank. Ben holds an MBA from Stanford University and a BA from the University of St. Thomas.

When asked why he chose 7Summits, Ben replied, I truly admire 7Summits business model and focus on driving business value through online community solutions. 7Summits has a powerful purpose and mission, a clear go-to-market approach and an incredibly talented team, all of which provide a strong foundation for continual growth. I'm excited to join 7Summits now as the company prepares to expand its markets and platform position to drive even more value for our customers.

Recently, 7Summits was identified as one of Silicon Reviews 50 Best Companies to Watch in 2017 as well as recognized as a leader in delivering business value and innovative community solutions for customers, partner networks, and employees.

For more information, visit 7SummitsInc.com or follow the conversation on Twitter (@7SummitsInc).

About 7Summits

7Summits Inc. is a leading online community solutions provider, guiding companies to engage their customers, partners and employees to grow their business and become more fully networked enterprises. 7Summits creates business solutions that deliver top line revenue growth and bottom-line productivity improvements. The company is a valued strategic partner of Fortune 500 companies and has received investment funding from both Sverica Capital Management and Salesforce Ventures. 7Summits is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with an extended presence in Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Denver, Washington DC, California, Seattle, and Michigan and Ohio. For more information, visit 7SummitsInc.com
Dr. James Stigler Named Fellow With the Precision Institute at National University. photo: courtesy of J. Stigler

Dr. James Stigler, who is widely recognized for his research into teaching and learning methodologies and is considered a leading authority on K-12 comparative math teaching and learning globally, has been named the first Fellow of the Precision Institute at National University. In his role as an Institute Fellow, Professor Stigler will contribute to developing and sharing research that aligns with the Institutes mission of expanding data-driven approaches to identifying and applying effective personalized learning methodologies in higher education.

A Professor of Developmental and Cognitive Psychology at UCLA, Dr. Stigler will be the featured speaker Sept. 27 as part of the Institutes Distinguished Speakers Series at the Sanford Education Center/National Universitys administrative headquarters in San Diego, Calif. He will be speaking on the topic of Teaching for Understanding: What Will it Take? -- a topic of particular relevance to educators interested in understanding the most effective kinds of learning for students in both online and face-to-face environments.

We are pleased to welcome Dr. James Stigler as the first Fellow of the Precision Institute at National University and to have him share his extensive understanding of methodologies to improve instruction and learning, said National University President, Dr. David W. Andrews. Dr. Stigler is a first-class academic researcher whose work has had a significant impact in the advancement of personalized learning approaches, which is a cornerstone of the Precision Institute at National University.

Aiming to address some of the most challenging issues confronting higher education today, National University, which serves more than 28,000 primarily-adult learners on campuses and online, is leading a four-year $20 million Precision Education initiative through its recently-launched Precision Institute at National University. The initiative involves piloting new approaches to personalize higher education through advanced technologies that adapt to individual student needs and interests with the intent of better serving a diverse student population to college completion.

I am thrilled to be part of the Precision Institute at National University, and to contribute to Dr. Andrews bold vision for the future of higher education, said Dr. Stigler. By doing research at the Precision Institute, and by recruiting other researchers and innovators to do the same, I believe we can make significant progress in improving teaching and learning, and education outcomes, for all students.

Dr. Stigler joined UCLA in 1991 after eight years at the University of Chicago. In addition to his faculty position, he served as Associate Dean for Research and Innovation, UCLA Division of Social Sciences, from July 2011 to 2016. He is Senior Fellow, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching; Fellow with the American Psychological Society; Fellow with the American Educational Research Association; and Member of the National Academy of Education. His research into teaching and learning methodologies has received federal funding support from the IES, NSF, and multiple philanthropic foundations. He is the co-author of two popular books: The Teaching Gap (with James Hiebert) and The Learning Gap (with Harold Stevenson), and is an advocate of using data metrics to better understand how students learn and respond to educational stimuli.

Considered a world authority on K-12 comparative math teaching and learning globally, Dr. Stigler led the video portion of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) summarized in the 1999 U.S. Department of Education landmark report on teaching and learning differences in students in math globally, which pointed out clear deficiencies in the U.S. Through his higher education research with the Carnegie Foundation, Dr. Stigler and colleagues have worked to understand deficiencies in math understanding in entering community college students and to address those. In addition to his research into the improvement of teaching and learning, Dr. Stigler has founded two education technology companies: Lesson Lab, a video-based teacher learning company later sold to Pearson, and Zaption, a video learning platform acquired by Workday in 2016.

The Precision Institute at National University is leading research and testing in advanced technologies, open education resources, and predictive analytics with the aim of developing a unique inter-connected and dynamic learning platform. To achieve this goal, the Institute is advancing current and future partnerships in coordination with faculty; educational organizations; and education technology partners, and leading global experts and researchers, which includes identifying Fellows to be involved with projects that align with the Institutes goals.

**Please contact the Precision Institute at National University via email at precision(at)nu.edu to inquire about the Sept. 27 presentation by Dr. Stigler. Limited seating is available**

About National University

Founded in 1971, National University is among the largest, private, nonprofit universities in California. With more than 150,000 alumni, National University is the flagship institution of the National University System. National University is dedicated to making lifelong learning opportunities accessible, challenging, and relevant to a diverse population of students. Four schools and two colleges  the College of Letters and Sciences; the Sanford College of Education; the School of Business and Management; the School of Engineering and Computing; the School of Health and Human Services; and the School of Professional Studies  offer more than 100 graduate and undergraduate degrees and 23 teacher credentials. Programs are offered at locations throughout California and across the nation, and are also available online. National University is headquartered in La Jolla, California. http://www.nu.edu/
The SPIE Digital Library has been moved to an enhanced new website. The new in-house website features an entirely redesigned user interface inspired by response to input received from several rounds of usability studies.

Scholarly publisher SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, has announced the move of the SPIE Digital Library (http://www.spiedigitallibrary.org) on 15 August to a new and substantially enhanced website.

Developed internally by SPIE to create an improved user experience and incorporate a number of enhancements and new features, the website housing and distributing SPIEs conference proceedings, journals, and eBooks has been completely redesigned and re-engineered.

The development and launch of the new SPIE Digital Library (SDL) website is the culmination of a very exciting multiyear project undertaken to bring the means for disseminating timely information to the scientific and industrial community within SPIEs full control. This enables the Society to be more responsive, more innovative, and more agile, noted SPIE CEO Eugene Arthurs. We see this as a major step forward that demonstrates SPIEs long-term commitment to meeting the needs of the optics and photonics community.

The new in-house website features an entirely redesigned user interface inspired by response to input received from researchers and authors over several rounds of usability studies and incorporating best website design practices.

The new site also incorporates a number of feature enhancements.

A significant percentage of oral presentations from SPIE conferences are now being recorded and published. These presentations are easier to find and view on the new site. More than 9,000 conference presentations are currently available, including a number of plenary and keynote talks, many of which are open access.

New personalization features include a Save for Later tool that enables users to save and manage citations in a personal library with customizable folders.

Other personalization tools include easily managed new content and search email alerts, and tools to export citations and abstracts to commonly used bibliographic software programs.

Full-text HTML for papers published in SPIE journals dates back to 2001. With the new website, proceedings papers dating back to 2014 display full-text HTML in addition to downloadable PDFs. All SPIE Field Guides and Spotlights eBooks are also now available in HTML as well as PDF formats.

An expanded optics and photonics taxonomy of more than 4,000 terms powers related content recommendations and improved search to return the most relevant results. Each paper includes keywords ranked by frequency of occurrence along with related content recommendations based on keyword equivalence. Search results can also be refined using taxonomic relationships.

Launched in 2003, the SDL now includes more than 460,000 journal and proceedings articles as well as more than 300 eBooks. Additional older publications have been added to the database, back through the first Proceedings of SPIE published in 1963 and including 46 Critical Reviews volumes with invited review papers published from 1990 to 2002.

The launch of the new Digital Library platform is hugely important to SPIEs mission and future service to the community, said SPIE President Glenn Boreman. It is the vehicle through which SPIE is able to meet our mission to disseminate knowledge to the global community of engineers, scientists, and students interested in contributing to and learning about the important impacts and possibilities of optics and photonics in todays world.

About SPIE

SPIE is the international society for optics and photonics, an educational not-for-profit organization founded in 1955 to advance light-based science, engineering, and technology. The Society serves nearly 264,000 constituents from approximately 166 countries, offering conferences and their published proceedings, continuing education, books, journals, and the SPIE Digital Library. In 2016, SPIE provided more than $4 million in support of education and outreach programs. http://www.spie.org
Dave Kaercher, owner of RE/MAX Real Estate Group By donating unwanted shoes, you will be taking a step to making the world a better place for everyone. Past News Releases RSS RE/MAX Real Estate Group Helping...

RE/MAX Realtor Dave Kaercher...

Dave Kaercher, owner of RE/MAX Real Estate Group, is proudly hosting a shoe donation drive for Soles4Souls, a nonprofit global social enterprise committed to fighting poverty through the collection and distribution of shoes and clothing. New or gently worn pairs of shoes can be dropped off at RE/MAX Real Estate Group, 12295 Oracle Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80921.

I strongly encourage everyone in the community to drop by and drop off a pair of shoes to help a person in need, said Kaercher. By donating unwanted shoes, you will be taking a step to making the world a better place for everyone.

Soles4Souls aims is to eradicate extreme poverty by 2050. Children every day are prevented from attending school and adults are unable to work as walking becomes unbearable, which perpetuates the cycle of poverty. To date, Soles4Souls has collected and distributed more than 30 million pairs of shoes to those in need in 127 countries around the world and all 50 states in the U.S.

Businesses and individuals that host donation drives for Soles4Souls help us fulfill our mission by providing short-term relief and long-term solutions to global poverty, said Buddy Teaster, President and CEO of Soles4Souls. Every single one of those pairs of shoes collected by our partners makes a difference in someones life.

For more information about getting involved with Soles4Souls or to become an official drop-off location, visit https://soles4souls.org/get-involved/.

In addition to Soles4Souls, Kaercher and RE/MAX Real Estate Group are supporters of Toys for Tots. The mission of Toys for Tots is to collect new, unwrapped toys each holiday season and distribute them as Christmas gifts to children in need.

About Soles4Souls

Soles4Souls disrupts the cycle of poverty by creating sustainable jobs and providing relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, the organization repurposes product to supply its micro-enterprise, disaster relief and direct assistance programs. Since 2006, it has distributed more than 30 million pairs of shoes in 127 countries. A nonprofit social enterprise, Soles4Souls earns more than half of its income and commits 100% of donations to programs. Visit soles4souls.org for more information.

About Dave Kaercher, RE/MAX Real Estate Group

Dave Kaerchers No. 1 priority is to help his clients make the right decision every time.

He works with buyers and sellers. Dave is a Five Star Professional, Certified Distressed Property Expert, Certified Investor Agent Specialist, Certified Residential Specialist, Graduate, REALTOR Institute, Military Res Specialist, Quality Service Certified and Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource. For more information, please call (719) 331-5307, or visit http://www.buywithdave.com.

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. The information and content in this article are not in conjunction with the views of the NALA. For media inquiries, please call 805.650.6121, ext. 361.
Kenneth Collopy and wife, Jill Wiltberger in front of Perfections Salon, Montgomery. There is no way to fill the gap that Kenneth left, said Wiltberger, but we want to honor him and the impact he made on so many lives.

With the sudden death of well-known hair stylist Kenneth R. Collopy, founder of Perfections Salon in Montgomery, his wife and business partner Jill Wiltberger, wanted to honor his memory. In addition to keeping his beloved business open, Jill has instituted a new customer loyalty program and expanded hours to accommodate the clients that sat in Kenneths chair. Many clients followed him from his previous salon Kenneth's Haircutting, Inc. in Blue Ash to Perfections Salon in Montgomery and have had no other stylist for years--even decades. Kenneth was best known as the master of the dry hair cut, a technique which he has passed on to all of his proteges.

There is no way to fill the gap that Kenneth left, said Wiltberger, but we want to honor him and the impact he made on so many lives. He died of a disease that is not common and really needs more research to keep others from the same fate.

Founded in 2000 by brothers Albert Rose and Michael Rosenzweig, PhD, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to identifying effective PF treatments and assisting those living with the disease. The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation mobilizes people, and resources, to provide access to high-quality care. They lead research for a cure so people with pulmonary fibrosis will live longer, healthier lives.

Perfections Salon has three stylists who were personally trained in Kenneths signature dry cut. Annie, Irene and Ashley are all certified stylists with some extra education from the Master. Unlike most other hair designers, Kenneths technique was perfected over more than half a century of servicing his clientele. His career spanned 58 years, included regular television segments for Bob Braun, his own line of hair products and teaching and speaking at shows and for product manufacturers. But his love was standing behind the chair and making women beautiful. Jill said, Kenneth believed that each woman, regardless of her age, hair color, texture or style, has her own beauty and a great cut brings it out best.

Jill has been the owner and managing director at Perfections Salon and knows the business inside and out. She has always worked side-by-side with Kenneth during their 25-year marriage, doing everything except hair styling. Seven years ago Perfections Salon introduced a new line of Deva Curl products created by a British hairdresser and a push to service Curly Girls, in addition to their regular clientele. They have developed a great curly clientele who thought they were destined always to be frizzy. They stress that its all about the right kind of dry cut and the right cleansing and styling products.

Throughout the month of September, Perfections will be accepting donations and donating a portion of their retail proceeds to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. People can drop off checks in advance and pick up information about this deadly disease anytime between now and then. On Saturday, September 30, it will be designated as the honorary Kenneth R. Collopy  Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation day. Stop in between 9-4.

Perfections Salon is located at 9921 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, OH 45242. They are active in social media with a Facebook page, Instagram and Pinterest account. For more information contact:

Jill Wiltberger

Perfections Salon

513-984-2555
Kevin Miller, Mid-West Artist teaches oil and dacrylic painting in and around the Tri-State. There are a lot of studios which do the drink and paint classes. Mine is not that kind of class, Miller said.

Cincinnati area artist and teacher Kevin Miller, announced his TV series, Painting with Kevin is now being broadcast on Spectrum TV via Waycross Community Media. Well known throughout the Midwest, Kevin travels the area teaching classes and sharing his entertaining artistic skills with hundreds of students.

Best known for his Bob Ross style of painting, Kevin has perfected his own set of skills. He was a student of the Ross-style of oil painting which is what drew him into the profession. I didnt even decide to draw or paint until I was in my 20s, Kevin said. Then thats all I wanted to do. And in fact, he has made a living painting and teaching others. Miller travels Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. He has a local studio in Loveland, OH, where he teaches both acrylic and oil classes.

His love of the outdoors and wildlife has prompted him to enter and win many contests for his work. Birds, animals, portraits and of course, landscapes, have become his staple.

There are a lot of studios which do the drink and paint classes. Mine is not that kind of class, Miller said. As a professional artist, the classes he teaches are designed to give instruction to those who are seriously interested in learning the skills involved in painting. Most of his students return on a regular basis and while they may not have the desire to sell their work, most just love the idea of painting and want to improve their techniques. Miller provides the instruction so all ages can benefit from his words and examples.

Partnering with Waycross Community Media, Miller now offers his classes on TV, on-line and will soon be providing DVDs to those who are interested in purchasing them. I think everyone should have the opportunity to learn as much about a hobby or interest as they possibly canif this helps those painters, then I am happy. Miller mentioned one such artist who had studied every painter he could find on TV and watched the programs multiple times. But he had never attended a class or even picked up a paint brush. When he finally came to Millers studio, he was hooked and has attended classes every month for about three years.

Painting is a different kind of therapy for everyone who picks up a brush. For some it is an outlet for their hectic week; for others a great way to express themselves; and still others just love the idea of putting paint on a canvas. Whatever their goal is (with regard to painting) I want them to become the artist they dream about becoming. Miller said.

Painting with Kevin can be seen twice a week on Spectrum and Fioptics via Waycross Community Media. Visit Waycross Community Media for a weekly schedule of times. Miller also travels to cities to do private events in churches, businesses and groups.

For more information contact:

Kevin Miller

Kevin Miller Art

1-937-213-1620
Josh Trent, Founder, Wellness Force Dr. Tim Brown and his goal with IntelliSkin is the true definition of visionary leadership. The synergy with Wellness Force is palpable and dovetails flawlessly with the ethos of IntelliSkin to help men and women stand tall in all aspects of their lives. - Josh Trent, Founder, Wellness Force

Movement is key and Rockstock 2017, a conference dedicated to movement science and innovation, is around the corner. Two leading-edge partners in the wellness industry, IntelliSkin and Wellness Force, will join forces at this exciting event to dive into the nuances of posture awareness and physical intelligence.

Dr. Tim Brown and his goal with IntelliSkin is the true definition of visionary leadership. The synergy with Wellness Force is palpable and dovetails flawlessly with the ethos of IntelliSkin to help men and women stand tall in all aspects of their lives. We are thrilled to partner with one of the most forward-thinking and innovative brands at this powerful intersection of all things wellness. - Josh Trent, Founder, Wellness Force

LIVE at the Rockstock event, Saturday September 23rd, Dr. Tim Brown and Josh Trent will be leading a series of interviews and breakout sessions with world-class wellness and fitness icons. The interviews will be recorded live, filmed, and broadcast through the Wellness Force podcast. This event will kick off the partnership, building towards the upcoming Inspired Action Series where Tim and Josh will discuss initiatives in helping listeners stand tall through spotlighting optimized training for the full-time human and living the proactive wellness lifestyle, men and women will be empowered to start training wherever they are and live better now. They will also be interviewing IntelliSkin athletes with goal to inspire and instruct.

We are so honored to participate in this event with Wellness Force. When I met Josh, the synergy was instant. We both believe that Truth Has No Agenda! Our approach is interdisciplinary, science, and evidence based. We look at what you eat, think, and do to develop the most efficient and effective way to improve function. The theme of how integrating proper breath with movement is key to performance, recovery, training and preventing injury is central to IntelliSkins mission. We cannot wait to kick off this partnership with one of the most exciting events in the wellness arena. - Dr. Tim Brown, Founder, IntelliSkin

Wellness Force was created to empower men and women to discover the physical and emotional intelligence they need to live life well. By spotlighting global wellness influencers in podcast, video, and rich media content, Wellness Force serves the global collective as a force of wellness for humans to thrive in our modern world.

The goal of IntelliSkin is to radically transform the way we think, speak, and act about our posture. Through posture awareness campaigns and a core product of posture correcting shirts, IntelliSkin helps you Stand Tall. The fletch on the back of the shirt is a visual representation of the kinesiology-inspired technology brought to the table when developing their apparel. Alongside Wellness Force and RockTape, the founder Dr. Tim Brown is a leader in the wellness industry, consulting a variety of athletes and fitness professionals.

Join us a Rockstock 17 on the 23rd. If you are unable to attend, download the podcast to discover the physical and emotional intelligence to live life well at http://www.wellnessforce.com/itunes or your preferred podcast app.

INTELLISKIN

Web: http://Intelliskin.net

Contact: tbrown(at)intelliskin(dot)net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intelliskin

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intelliskin

Twitter: https://twitter.com/intelliskin

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/intelliskin

WELLNESS FORCE MEDIA

Web: http://wellnessforce.com

Contact: info(at)wellnessforce(dot)com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/wellnessF

Instagram: http://instagram.com/wellnessforce

Apple Podcast: http://wellnessforce.com/itunes

Google Play: http://wellnessforce.com/googleplay

Stitcher: http://wellnessforce.com/stitcher

iHeartRadio: http://wellnessforce.com/iheartradio
Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!
Thanks for signing up for our daily insight on the African economy. We bring you daily editor picks from the best Business Insider news content so you can stay updated on the latest topics and conversations on the African market, leaders, careers and lifestyle. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!
"Sebastian Gorka is weird, because a lot of people don't know who he is, but the people who do know who he is are obsessed with him," Adomian told Business Insider. "People who follow the news closely all know who he is, and they love the impression."

In an era before niche political media channels, an impression of a newly-ousted White House adviser with questionable political relevance probably would have gone relatively unnoticed.

But Adomian's impression of Gorka has garnered a cult following in political media circles and on Twitter, inspiring viral tweets and making its way into Daily Beast headlines.

The 37-year-old comedian debuted the impression on Chapo Trap House, the leftist political comedy podcast that has attracted a group of dedicated paying subscribers and seemingly endless scrutiny and criticism for the manner in which it skewers neo-liberalism.

I honest to god can't stop ... @ Asawin Suebsaeng

these are honestly the funn... @ Dylan Scott

Hope Gorka's resignation do... @ Jim Prosser #emo#

Gorka may have had an obscure job with few responsibilities, but he was a White House figure waiting for a send-up.

A onetime Breitbart News writer with a dubious pedigree who became a pariah in the White House, Gorka was a ubiquitous presence on cable television during the initial months of the Trump administration, contemptuously sparring with hosts on CNN and MSNBC over coverage of the administration, in a thick accent, making declarations like "the era of the pajama boy is over."

A respected stand-up comedian with credits on Funny or Die and Comedy Central, Adomian has repeatedly performed viral impressions, including one of former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura, and played Sen. Bernie Sanders during the "Trump vs. Bernie" tour and hourlong Comedy Central special on "@midnight."

But Adomian said he pitched appearing on Chapo after he first saw Gorka during an interview on television in February. He found the then-deputy assistant's political beliefs to be "really, really, really crazy and far out there," but thought he had a "hilarious" personality as he seemed to embrace his image as a villain during television interviews, smirking and taunting various anchors, hosts, and fellow panelists.

"He has an accent that's not real. He has this accent that's like 'I grew up in London but Ive been here for 25 years,'" Adomian said. "So it sounds like this James Bond super villain, which is immediately what I thought of."

He continued: "You don't see that kind of goatee and menacing sneer in public figures who want to be taken as a good guy. Most people are like, 'Hey I might not be attractive but at least I'm going to look positive.' And Sebastian Gorka is like, 'I'm here as a snarling elitist.'"

Like many comedians, Adomian has both enjoyed satirizing a Trump acolyte, yet been troubled by the ascension of the administration's political values.

Gorka's ties to a far-right anti-Semitic group in Hungary, estrangement from even the hawkish Republican foreign policy circles, and gleeful, counter-intuitive defense of President Donald Trump's decisions have disturbed Adomian, who has embraced left-wing politics in his comedy.

"He's outside in a direction which is very disturbing, which is he's to the right of the foreign policy establishment," he said. "Which is insane, because they're already right-wing psychos who fetishize about overthrowing governments and stuff like that. He's to the right of them to the point where they don't like him."

"I think it's important to make fun of people like him."

Other podcasters and media personalities have given Gorka a try to lesser success.

Jon Lovett, a co-host of popular Obama-alumni podcast Pod Save America, has tried his Gorka impression occasionally, but admitted Adomian's impression was better. So did MSNBC's Chris Hayes, a former thespian who briefly tried out his impression last week when reporting on how the Secret Service banned Gorka from using his pass to enter the White House.

Though Trump's ascension to the presidency has presented "golden opportunities" for comedians to capitalize on the folly of the Trump administration, some critics have remained unimpressed with television comedy, which liberals remember fondly as a place of cultural refuge during President George W. Bush's administration.

The political comedy of "Saturday Night Live" has boosted the show's ratings, undermined some administration members' credibility in the White House, and seemed to get under the president's skin, but some critics have reportedly found the actual writing material hollow.

He argued that alternate media forms like political comedy podcasts have helped amplify more transgressive and interesting comedy that wouldnt be allowed on cable and network television because of standards and practices offices and political timidity.

"You can make easy jokes, you can make stupid jokes, you can be very silly, and they do that, and it's very fun," Adomian said. "But I think you should have the true skill as a comedian and satirist to draw blood while appearing to be silly. That is a power that comedy has that is not being allowed on television, it's happening on the internet and it's happening in live comedy."

Though he acknowledged that fans have been disappointed by Gorka's resignation from a comedic perspective, Adomian argued that he'll probably keep doing the impression as long as Gorka continues to appear on cable television.

"People think he's going away, he's not going away," Adomian said.
Mustapha founded a school in 2007 in Maiduguri  the capital of Borno State and the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency. The school has stayed open throughout the conflict with Boko Haram, which has seen some 20,000 killed across the Lake Chad region, and millions more displaced.

The school provides a free education, as well as free meals, uniforms and health care, to children affected by violence. Those orphaned by the conflict on both sides are welcomed into Mustaphas classrooms as a sign of the reconciliation he hopes to achieve in the region.

Conflict can leave children with physical and emotional scars that are deep and lasting. It forces them from their homes, exposes them to unspeakable atrocities, and often rips apart their families, said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for helping refugee children overcome the horrors of violence and forced displacement. It empowers young people, equips them with skills and works to counter exploitation and recruitment by armed groups, Grandi added. The work Mustapha and his team are doing is of the utmost importance, helping to foster peaceful coexistence and rebuild communities in north-eastern Nigeria. With this award, we honour his vision and service.

The announcement of this years Nansen Refugee Award winner by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, comes as tens of thousands of Nigerian youth are growing up without an education. The countrys education sector is strained by its expanding youth population, and facilities in the north-east remain under attack by Boko Haram, who have destroyed schools and killed teachers.

Schools lie at the heart of a society. Destroying them crushes the chance of Nigerias next generation succeeding, said the Norwegian Refugee Councils Secretary General Jan Egeland, whose organization co-manages the Nanson Refugee Award project. The recognition of Zannah Mustaphas brave work highlights the importance of education for the future of Nigeria.

In the decade since its inception, the school has swelled from 36 students to 540. Desperate for an education, thousands more children have added their names to its waiting list. In 2016, Mustapha opened a second school just a few kilometres away from the first. Eighty-eight children, all of whom have fled conflict in the region, walk through its classroom doors each day.

Mustaphas work in the region also includes negotiating the release of hostages. When the 21 young women who had been held captive for more than two years were released, Mustapha was there. He had been instrumental in securing their freedom  as well as the release of 82 additional Chibok girls in May 2017.

Mustapha and his volunteer group of educators know the risks they face, but their work is too important not to soldier on. This school promotes peace, Mustapha said. It is a place where every child matters, he added. These children shall be empowered, empowered in such a way that they can stand on their own.

In addition to his education work, Mustapha has demonstrated a commitment to helping all parts of society affected by conflict. His support was instrumental in setting up a cooperative for widows, providing much-needed support for nearly 600 women in Maiduguri.
It seems there's a Jollibee on every corner in the Philippines  in fact, it's one of the few chains that has successfully maintained market dominance over McDonald's in its home country. Even as McDonald's ramps up its Asian expansion, Jollibee has held its own with 978 locations compared with 521 McDonald's.

Now, Jollibee is coming for McDonald's on its home turf. The chain has 36 locations in the US and plans to open new restaurants in states including Illinois and Florida this year. Jollibee also acquired a 50% stake in American burger chain Smashburger in 2015, and is reportedly considering a deal to acquire British sandwich chain Pret A Manger.

The brand holds a special place in the heart of many Filipino expats. Jian DeLeon wrote in First We Feast that the chain offered such people "a nostalgic taste of home at a price most of us can swallow."

We, on the other hand, enter not as Filipino food experts but as two fast-food loving New Yorkers eager to see how the growing chain compares to the competition.

Jollibee has 36 locations across the US, mostly in California. Luckily, there's one in Woodside, Queens, right off the subway.

The place was packed when we arrived about 1 p.m. The lunch rush was in full swing, and scouting for a seat proved to be quite the task. Fortunately, an employee alerted us as soon as two spots became available.

Ordering was a breeze, though we were a bit thrown by the menu's breadth of options. While we are fast-food connoisseurs, we don't typically see spaghetti served alongside fried chicken and burgers at American chains. The cashier was extremely friendly and accommodating, even when we came back twice to order more items we previously forgot.

We ordered quite the spread.

Diners seeking a classic Italian-American take on spaghetti will be surprised by Jollibee's version. As is common in the Philippines, the sauce is more sweet than savory. While it wasn't quite to our taste, it delivered on Jollibee's "meatiest, cheesiest, spaghettiest" marketing. The sauce is chock-full of ground beef, chunks of ham, and a hot-dog-esque sausage. It's a better, sweeter version of elementary-school cafeteria spaghetti  strangely comforting.

One of Jollibee's signature dishes is the Chickenjoy fried chicken, which we ordered as a combo alongside the spaghetti. Taste-wise, the closest chicken chain comparison would be Church's. It's fairly tender, but it lacks a flavorful punch and crunch.

The chicken is available on the bone or in tender form, though Jollibee calls them "dippers." As with the chicken on the bone, the chicken itself is of good quality, but more crunch and pep are needed.

What is remarkable, however, is the fiesta palabok noodles. This is a fast-food take on a traditional Filipino noodle dish, consisting of rice noodles covered in a garlicky sauce, crushed pork rinds, shrimp, parsley, and a slice or two of hard-boiled eggs.

This is a garlic lover's dream. There's a richness in flavor, yet the dish avoids feeling heavy or dense. This is something unexpected at any fast-food chain, let alone an American chain like McDonald's, and it's well worth the trip. It's the surf and turf we deserve.

Another menu item you wouldn't find at McDonald's is the burger steak. It's essentially a Salisbury steak with a side of steamed rice. It's unceremoniously slathered in brown gravy and somewhat tasteless mushrooms. It's a tame but safe bet for a fast-food menu  they're already frying up the burgers, so why not throw some gravy and rice on 'em?

We deeply prefer the patty in a form more familiar to American fast-food fans. Jollibee's Aloha burger marries the best elements of the Whopper and the Big Mac while injecting its own twist: pineapple.

The patty is charred, savory, and juicy. It could easily go head-to-head with the flame-grilled Whopper. It includes a sauce reminiscent of the iconic Big Mac sauce but slightly sweeter. The bacon and pineapple toppings create a delicious play of salty and sweet.

The patty, sauce, cheese, lettuce, bacon, and pineapple all combine for one harmonious melody of fast-food burger brilliance. This burger can duke it out with the top American contenders  it's that shockingly good.

Jollibee also shines in the dessert department.

It's hard to take a bite out of the mango peach pie without comparing it to the passionately defended McDonald's apple pie. This comparison, however, will only serve to flatter Jollibee's dessert; it's deliciously fruity without being syrupy sweet, and it deftly avoids the fake peach flavor you expect. The extra-crispy wonton-style exterior also brings a level of textural satisfaction that the McDonald's equivalent lacks.

The chain's soft serve is simple and elegant, as most soft serve is. We couldn't discern any difference from McDonald's or any chain's icy dessert, but we didn't mind.

The ube pearl cooler is a refreshing take on a traditional Filipino dessert made from purple yams. Yet again, Jollibee's version deftly avoids sugar fatigue by balancing its sweetness. At the bottom rest little black tapioca pearls, adding a chewy dimension to the beverage.

Finally, there's the halo-halo. This legendary Filipino dessert is a multilevel hodgepodge, but it's a masterpiece. On the bottom are sweetened beans, chickpeas, and jello cubes, followed by shaved ice and evaporated milk.

The dessert is crowned with a jewel-like array of ice cream and flan, making it a prime Instagram target.

While it sounds overwhelming, the cacophony of flavors and textures come together to form a strangely beautiful symphony in a plastic cup.
Hurricane Maria is crawling toward Turks and Caicos with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph.

The storm is moving northwest at 7 mph, after causing widespread destruction in Puerto Rico and bringing hurricane conditions to the Dominican Republic. Hurricane warnings are in effect for Turks and Caicos, the southeastern Bahamas, and parts of the Dominican Republic.

The storm has left at least 26 people dead in the Caribbean so far, according to reports, but more casualties are expected. The storm pounded Puerto Rico for hours as the third-strongest storm ever to hit US territory.

Early reports from Puerto Rico described intense damage. Cellphone communications failed as towers went down. The Puerto Rican emergency-management agency said 100% of the island was without power by Wednesday afternoon and that Maria had damaged "everything in its path," according to reports.

According to the NHC, the eye of the "potentially catastrophic" storm is expected to pass near or just east of Turks and Caicos and the southeastern Bahamas Friday and Saturday. The storm has grown since it left Puerto Rico, with hurricane-force winds extending 70 miles from its center.

The NHC said preparations for life-threatening storm surge, rainfall flooding, and destructive winds "should be rushed to completion" in areas not yet hit by the brunt of the storm.

The center has also warned that some of the greatest risks Maria poses come from its storm surge, which is accompanied by "large and destructive waves." The southeastern Bahamas and Turks and Caicos could see 9- to 12-foot surges above normal tide levels.

It's still too soon to say whether the continental US will be in Maria's path after it crosses the Caribbean, but models project Maria will turn north and head out to sea. Swells generated by the storm should reach portions of the US' southeastern coast today, however.

Conditions in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands

Maria caused widespread destruction as it engulfed Puerto Rico, where residents were just starting to recover from Hurricane Irma. The island avoided a direct hit from Irma, but its powerful storm surge and winds still caused many residents to lose power.

Maria's direct hit was devastating.

"The San Juan that we knew yesterday is no longer here," Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz told MSNBC on Wednesday night of the island's capital. The mayor said Puerto Rico, home to some 3.5 million people, was "looking at four to six months without electricity."

Wind gauges throughout the island broke, making it impossible to know just how strong the most intense gusts were at the height of the storm.

Gov. Ricardo Rossello of Puerto Rico announced Wednesday afternoon that he was instituting a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

The director of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency, Brock Long, said on CNN on Wednesday morning that 3,200 agency staff members were in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands with supplies, and that they were better prepared in the areas before this storm than they were when Irma hit.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday signed a disaster declaration for Puerto Rico, making federal disaster-relief funding available to much of the island.

Before the storm arrived the public safety commissioner of Puerto Rico had told those in evacuation zones: "You have to evacuate. Otherwise, you're going to die."

Take this event seriously

Maria first made landfall on the island of Dominica on Monday night. Although the destruction is still being assessed, Roosevelt Skerrit, the prime minister of Dominica, wrote on his Facebook page: "Initial reports are of widespread devastation ... The winds have swept away the roofs of almost every person I have spoken to or otherwise made contact with."

The hurricane was the first Category 5 storm in recorded history to hit Dominica, which is home to roughly 70,000 people. The last and only Category 4 storm to directly hit the island nation, Hurricane David in 1979, killed more than 50 people and left 60,000 homeless.

"The roof to my own official residence was among the first to go and this apparently triggered an avalanche of torn away roofs in the city and the countryside," Skerrit wrote on Facebook.

The bands of the storm also slammed the nearby island of Guadeloupe, causing serious flooding, damage to buildings, and widespread power losses.

Maria lost some strength as its eye moved over Dominica but quickly regained its Category 5 status.

On the islands of St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands, residents were urged to leave their homes for government shelters, since Irma damaged many houses.

Trump also approved an emergency declaration for the Virgin Islands on Monday, giving FEMA the go-ahead to coordinate disaster relief efforts there. Some of the soldiers who came to the Virgin Islands to provide relief after Irma were evacuated.

"Take this event seriously," Gov. Kenneth Mapp of the US Virgin Islands said at a press conference Sunday. "You cannot stay in those facilities. You will not survive."

He urged people who decided to stay in their homes to write their Social Security numbers on their bodies so they could be identified easily in a worst-case scenario.

St. Croix, the most populated of the US Virgin Islands, took a hit from the outer eyewall, to the right of Maria's eye. According to reports, vegetation was stripped bare by the storm, wind measurement equipment failed, and many were left without power.

An unusually active hurricane season

Maria is the seventh hurricane of an unusually active Atlantic hurricane season, making this only the ninth year on record with seven hurricanes by September 17. There have been 13 named storms so far  the average by September 18 is 7.6.

This season is also significantly ahead of the average measures for major hurricane days and accumulated cyclone energy (a measure of storm strength, duration, and frequency). Maria is pushing those measures even further ahead.

On September 15, Colorado State University's Tropical Meteorology Project issued a two-week forecast of above-normal cyclone activity for the Atlantic basin.

Jose, which was a Category 4 hurricane at its peak but is now a post-tropical cyclone, is still churning near the East Coast but should stay offshore. The storm is nonetheless bringing tropical storm conditions  including winds, rainfall, and dangerous surf  to southern New England.
Improvising during the live show is considered highly inappropriate, as "SNL" alum Jon Rudnitsky told People this weekend.

"By the way, nobody riffs on 'SNL.' Not Will Ferrell, not anybody in the history of 'SNL' has ever riffed. There are cue cards there for a reason, it's live. And he went off on the show, and you can kind of tell when hes trying to do a thing. Youre like, 'Eh, youre not a comedian.'"

NBC sparked controversy when it announced that Trump, then a Republican presidential candidate, was hosting the November 15 episode of the long-running sketch comedy show. Latino advocacy groups, as well as the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, protested Trump's selection in light of his comments on Mexican immigration.

The episode itself earned mostly negative reviews from critics. Ahead of the episode, Trump said he rejected a number of sketches he deemed "too risque" because he felt they could jeopardize his rising poll numbers.

But according to Rudnitsky, Trump also vetoed any sketch he felt didn't compliment him enough.

"He had trouble with the sketches, and if a sketch wasn't complimentary about him  mainly physically  he wasnt into it," Rudnitsky told People. "He'd go, 'It's cute, but no  next.'"
According to reports, the police officer slapped the lecturer during misunderstanding at the Kotoka International Airport on Sunday, September, 17.

READ MORE: Headmistress of Temasco assaulted by angry parents

Dr. Kobby Mensah, who is the Coordinator, Marketing and Communications officer at the University of Ghana Business School said, the police officer Wilson Oku, in an apparent show of power, slapped him during a misunderstanding between him and some police personnel over parking duration at the Airport drop off zone.

The lecturer narrating his ordeal to the press said he had gone to the airport at about 7:30pm to drop off a research colleague who was travelling to the United Kingdom.

READ ALSO: UTAG begins nationwide strike

According to him, he pulled over at the drop off zone at the airport and while he and his colleague were loading luggage on a trolley, one of the officers, named Samuel Arthur, asked him to drive away claiming he had parked for 10 minutes.

"I went to drop a colleague at the Airport and while waiting for the trolley to unpack the things then came a Police Officer I only got his name as Arthur and tells me I have been there for over ten minutes so I should move my car.
READ MORE: Albino boy found dead with his brain missing

While some teenagers were seen collapsed on the floor, others were also supporting their unresponsive friends after a drunken night of merriment.

Some of the students appeared to have regretted how the party ended, especially as they saw one student pushed into the back of an ambulance while medics also atended to an unresponsive first-year drooping on the ground.

A photograph also showed another teenager being led away from a nightclub while others were capture bowing their heads holding bottles.

READ ALSO: Brave student defeats armed robbers in scary wrestle

Free of their parents for the first time, these teenagers celebrated the start of their new life away from home by partying until the early hours of the morning and drinking dangerous amounts of alcohol.

However, the reveling didnt end exactly as planned for everybody as similar shocking scenes were witnessed in all corners of the country.
However, one would have hardly imagined that a building contractor would take pride in that view by marrying up to 120 women by age 58.

Surprisingly, it has never been a secret to all the 120 wives, and they have never had any problem with it, once they are getting the care they deserve from a man.

READ MORE: Paedophile weeps as court jails him 10 years for defilement

Tambon Prasert, father of 28 and head of Phromnee district, in Thailands Nakorn Nayok province, which is some 90 km from Bangkok, recently admitted to newsmen that he had illegally taken over 100 wives.

Polygamy is illegal in Thailand and reporters exposed Tambon Praserts illegal act following tip off from unnamed sources.

The local politician and owner of a successful construction business, recently welcomed members of the media into his home to shed some light on his family life, after they traveled to Phromnee to confirm their leads.

When questioned by the media, he revealed the truth that, I have 120 wives and 28 sons and daughters.

The Casanova further disclosed that, my first marriage was when I was 17, saying my first wife was one or two years younger than me and we had three children. After that I had a string of others. Most of them were young women and they were all under 20. I dont like older ones  they argue too much.

Prasert explained that, I am a building contractor, wherever I built a house I got a wife there, I love them all  and they all love me.

Aside the illegality of his conduct, one cannot complain if the women involved do not have any problem about the development. The building contractor said I would say I have a new wife OK  no one had a problem with that. They could all accept the situation and there were never any arguments.

The proud polygamist however emphasised that, I respect them all. In every case I asked their parents for permission to wed according to customs and traditions. All were properly wed at organized ceremonies.

He told newsmen that taking care of the numerous women has never been difficult.

If they didnt have their own house I would get them some land and sort everything out for them so everyone was happy.

To the surprise of everyone, Tambon Praserts newest wife, 27-year-old Nam Fon, was right by his side during the interview with media men. Neither did she show any sign of shock at revelations by her husband.

While 22 of his wives live near his home in Phromnee district, the others are based all around Thailand.
He was not only heartlessly murdered, but the poor albino has been found dead in Mozambique with his brain missing.

According to the BBC, local resident in Tete in western Mozambique, who asked to remain anonymous said that, the teenager's parents started searching for him when he didn't return home.

His body was reportedly found with bones from his arms and legs missing and his head split open. Residents further revealed that his brain had been taken.

The Tete Provincial Police Command has said it would begin investigations at the scene of the crime immediately and bring the perpetrators to book.

This is the latest in a series of crimes against people with albinism whose body parts are used in rituals.

Some people are of the superstitious belief that, body parts of albinos, if used for rituals, engender success especially in business. That is the reason why in certain parts of the world they are hunted like bush animals and killed cold-bloodedly.

They are discriminated against, mocked and their fundamental human rights denied them in several ways.
I first learned about this from Lindsay Knaak-Stuart, CEO of the skin-care company Meant, who set out to simplify skincare routines by finding easy ways that products can multi-task.

I had heard of people using conditioner in a pinch when they ran out of shaving cream, she explains. If you consider both are hair, then it seemed really logical to me. So she added antibacterial ingredients such as aloe juice and babassu oil in Meant The Do-All Conditioner to help tackle post-shave redness and inflammation. (And she says her husband hasn't gotten an ingrown hair since switching!)

But all this talk got us thinking: Would any old conditioner double as a shave cream? Yes, says cosmetic chemist Ginger King, who told us that she also uses conditioner to shave. Conditioners are cationic which can coat the hair and give a smoother shave and leave legs soft, she explains. In case you're fuzzy on your 10th grade chemistry: Conditioner is positively charged, making it attracted to hair (which is negatively charged), and thus able to coat the strandswhether its on your head or your legs.
They also claim that the Managing Director has shown lack of respect towards procurement processes of the corporation in the purchase of a Honda Pilot SUV for herself.

READ ALSO: Freight forwarders in Ghana protest against paperless ports

The demonstrators would want to know where Ms Annang had the money to buy that vehicle, considering the company is having some challenges.

They also argue that they have not had any salary increase for about seven years now.
READ ALSO: Rawlings group blasts Mahama over unity walk

It follows the one held earlier in the month in the Northern Regional capital, Tamale which had in attendance leading figures of the party including the former president, John Dramani Mahama.

Members of the party are expected to converge at the Nima Roundabout for the walk which will be led by Regional and National Executives of the party.

READ ALSO: NDC embarks on unity walk in Tamale ahead of election 2020
He was put before the court following his arrest in relation to an alleged verbal abuse of the partys council of elders in the area, the constituency officers and the Member of Parliament (MP) on August 30.

When he made his first appearance before the court, Samuel Agyei Gyimah pleaded not guilty to the charge and was for that reason remanded by the court presided over by Ms. Lydia Osei Marfo to reappearance on Thursday, September 28.

Prosecuting, Detective Inspector Emmanuel Nyamekye narrated to the court that, the constituency NASARA Coordinator had made a pilgrimage to Mecca, and while away, the partys motorbike in his possession was being used by another person.

He said the accused stopped the temporary user to query him about his use of the motorbike, leading to an altercation between them.

READ ALSO: Brave student defeats armed robbers in scary wrestle

According to the prosecution, a party elder, Nana Kwame Antwi, met the two gentlemen during the incident and attempted to intervene, but the accused who could not control his anger, rained insults on him and all the other party leaders including MP for the area.
He said his assessment of the loss of the NDC can be largely attributed to message deficiency, non-exciting messages on the part of the NDC communication team.

According to him, even though Dr Bawumia had flaws in his analysis of the economy, the NDC failed to put up an effective communication strategy.

"What I missed was the inability of the NDC communication team to bring out the facts so as to challenge the comparative analysis that Dr Bawumia was making.

"Dr Bawumia was the Achilles heel of the NDC...Not only for the 2016 elections but he started way back in 2012," he said in an interview on TV3.

Dr Tony Aidoo said the eight years of former President John Kufuor's administration was carried by donor financial support adding that Dr Bawumia failed to punch holes on Kufuor's administration prior to the elections.

He said "He ignored the fact that for the most part of the Kufuor administration, the eight years was virtually carried by donor financial support. All the social interventions that Kufuor implemented were donor supported."
President Nana Akufo-Addo over the weekend proposed legislation to Parliament to designate 4th August as Founders Day and 21st September as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day.

If passed by Parliament, both days will be observed as public holidays, a statement signed by the Director of Communications at the presidency, Mr Eugene Arhin said.

But many who are against the move believe that it is a deliberate ploy to undermine the legacy of Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

An NDC Member of Parliament for Zabzugu, Alhassan Umar speaking on the development said Nana Addo wants his family members to be remembered in the history of Ghana.

But speaking in a radio discussion, Obiri Boahen said he does not get the hullabaloo being created around the subject matter, considering others who played significant roles towards Ghanas independence cannot be ignored.

This is something that we should not even be fighting over, he said. Nobody is denying the fact that in Ghanas history Nkrumah was the first among them. "

He further wondered why members of the NDC are adding their voice to the matter when it has nothing to do with them but Nkrumahists.

This is not about NDC, it is about Ghanaians.
He said the President can only seek parliamentary approval if he wants his family members to be remembered.

A statement issued by the Presidency tates that "4th August, is, thus, obviously the most appropriate day to signify our recognition and appreciation of the collective efforts of our forebears towards the founding of a free, independent Ghana.

"It is equally clear that the first leader of independent Ghana, and the nations first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, played an outstanding role in helping to bring to fruition the works of the earlier generations, and leading us to the promised land of national freedom and independence. It is entirely appropriate that we commemorate him for that role, by designating his birthday as the permanent day of his remembrance".

The MP speaking on the development said Nana Addo wants his family members to be remembered in the history of Ghana.

Mr Umar said: "if the President wants his family members to be remembered, then we have to remove the s [from Founders Day] to be able to include the rest [including JB Danquah]."

He said it's a deliberate ploy to undermine the legacy of Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

He stated that "you cant water down what Kwame Nkrumah did and if so, what the President may do is to suggest to Parliament to remove the apostrophe s on the Founders Day to make it Founders Day and leave it so that it will be subservient to the day.

READ MORE: NDC MP wins dual citizenship case

"The President wants to downplay the role Nkrumah played and what the President wants to do is reinvention of the wheel."

However, Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Ocquaye has described as propagandist the annual celebration of Dr Kwame Nkrumahs birthday as Founders Day.
Hours before Suu Kyi delivers a national address Tuesday, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson called a meeting on the crisis on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Johnson, at the meeting attended by US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and Myanmar's deputy foreign minister, warned that the violence in Rakhine state was "a stain on the country's reputation" so soon after its transition to democratic rule.

"For this reason, Burma should not be surprised to find itself under international scrutiny and on the Security Council's agenda," Johnson said, using the former British colony's earlier name.

"As I have repeatedly said, no one wants to see a return to military rule, so it is vital that Aung San Suu Kyi and the civilian government make clear these abuses must stop," he said in a statement.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, speaking earlier to the BBC ahead of the week's meetings, also said that Suu Kyi had "a last chance" to change course in her address Tuesday.

Louis Charbonneau, UN director at Human Rights Watch, called the British-led meeting "a first step, but it can't be the last."

With world leaders visiting for the UN General Assembly this week, Charbonneau urged work on a Security Council resolution that would impose targeted sanctions, including an arms embargo on the commanders leading the campaign against the Rohingya.

Western officials and human rights groups have been especially disheartened as they had campaigned for years for the freedom of Suu Kyi, who spent the larger part of two decades under house arrest by a military junta until her release in 2010.

Suu Kyi's electoral triumph into the country's paramount leader had been hailed as a triumph for democracy. But Suu Kyi, who has a complicated relationship with the army, has been nearly silent after troops drove more than 410,000 Rohingya out of the country.

The United Nations has said that the campaign, which witnesses say has included the burning of villages and rape, amounts to ethnic cleansing.
Condemning anti-Semitism as being "very dangerous", Kaczynski called Israel "a great state".

"We see the proof somewhere above us where there is a supreme force, a divine force, which decides everything and without it, Israel could not exist, it is a kind of miracle of our time," added Kaczynski, a devout Catholic.

EJC President Moshe Kantor warned in late August that "there has been a distinct normalisation of anti-Semitism, racism and xenophobia in Poland recently" and called on the PiS government to "stem this hate" and act forcefully against it.

The group cited a proliferation of "fascist slogans" and unsettling remarks on social media and television, as well as the display of flags of the nationalist ONR group at state ceremonies.

The EJC added that it had been around a year since a senior Polish minister met with leaders of the Union of Jewish Communities in Poland, which represents the fewer than 10,000 people who belong to Jewish organisations in the country of 38 million people.

Kaczynski met with some members of Poland's small Jewish community at Monday's awards ceremony, but several Jewish organisations in Poland insisted they did not represent the entire community.

Organising the ceremony, the From the Depths group, which seeks out Poles who risked their lives to save Jews from the Nazis, said its new "Zabinski Prize" is meant to honour those who "were not recognized as Righteous among the nations of the world" by Israel's Yad Vashem Institute.

The award bears the name of the war-time director of the Warsaw Zoo, who together with his wife Antonina hid nearly 300 Jews and resistance fighters from the Nazis at the zoo.

British Conservative MP Daniel Kawczynski, who was among the first recipients, evoked the memory of his great-uncle Jan, his wife and daughter, shot by the Germans who discovered Jews hidden on their farm.

Nuns from the Franciscan Order of the Family of Mary also received the prize for saving some 750 Jews, both children and adults, hidden in their convents.

Poland was once home to Europe's largest Jewish population, numbering around three million people, or 10 percent of the Polish population in 1939.
Storm warnings and watches went up in many of the Caribbean islands still reeling from the destructive passage of Hurricane Irma earlier this month.

As of 2100 GMT, Maria was a Category One hurricane, the lowest on the five point Saffir-Simpson scale, located 140 miles (225 kilometers) northeast of Barbados, the NHC said, bearing west-northwest at 15 miles (24 kilometers) an hour.

"On the forecast track, the center of Maria will move across the Leeward Islands Monday night and then over the extreme northeastern Caribbean Sea on Tuesday," it said.

Hurricane warnings were triggered for St Kitts, Nevis and Montserrat, while lesser 'watches' were issued for the US and British Virgin Islands where at least nine people were killed during Irma.

A warning is typically issued 36 hours before the first occurrence of tropical storm-force winds while watches are issued 48 hours in advance.

Tropical storm warnings were, meanwhile, issued for Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda, Saba and St Eustatius and St Lucia.

Barbuda was decimated by Hurricane Irma September 5-6 when it made its first landfall in the Caribbean as a top intensity Category Five storm.

The NHC said Maria could produce a "dangerous storm surge accompanied by large and destructive waves" that will raise water levels by four to six feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) when it passes through the Leeward Islands.

It also forecast a maximum potential rainfall of 20 inches (51 centimeters) in the Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and the US and British Virgin Islands through Wednesday night -- conditions that could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

A second hurricane, Jose, is also currently active in the Atlantic and has triggered tropical storm watches for the northeastern United States.

Irma left around 40 people dead in the Caribbean before churning east and pounding Florida, where at least 20 people were killed.
1. The first far-right party set to enter Germany's parliament for more than a half a century says it will press for Chancellor Angela Merkel to be "severely punished" for opening the door to refugees and migrants.The Alternative for Germany (AfD) could become the third largest party with up to 12% of the vote on Sept. 24, polls show.

2. Startup bank Monzo is doing away with one of its most popular features  unlimited free ATM withdrawals overseas.The company, which offers a prepaid money card and is rolling out current accounts, is asking its customers to choose the best new charging option for ATM fees abroad, saying its existing policy has become simply too costly to continue.

3. Qatar's defense minister has signed a letter of intent to purchase 24 Typhoon jets from British defense group BAE Systems, in a move that could anger other Gulf countries boycotting Doha. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Bahrain cut diplomatic and trade links with Qatar on June 5.

4. Former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, 81, marked a formal return to Italy's political stage, portraying himself as a pro-European moderate.Speaking at a meeting of his Forza Italia (Go Italy) party, Berlusconi said he wanted to lead the group into the national ballot, which is expected by next March.

5. Volkswagen is a "second mover" in electrified commercial vehicles, after lagging companies such as Tesla in putting them on the road, the head of VW's trucks business told a German newspaper. He said Volkswagen had emissions-free alternatives to conventional trucks and buses on offer.

6. Home Secretary Amber Rudd said on Sunday that Boris Johnson was not starting a leadership bid by setting out his plans for Brexit in a newspaper article, adding that his intervention was "absolutely fine". A week before Prime Minister Theresa May sets out her vision for Brexit in a speech in the Italian city of Florence, Johnson, the foreign secretary, published a newspaper article that roamed well beyond his ministerial brief.

7. Beijing will suspend construction of major public projects in the city this winter in an effort to improve the capital's notorious air quality. All construction of road and water projects, as well as demolition of housing, will be banned from Nov. 15 to March 15 within the city's six major districts and surrounding suburbs, said the Xinhua report.

8. Spain's paramilitary national police force says its agents have confiscated more than 1.3 million posters, flyers and pamphlets promoting the planned independence referendum by Catalonia's regional government. The Civil Guard said the campaign literature was seized on Sunday during raids of an unnamed business in Barcelona province that distributes advertising material.

9. Dirk Jeschke, a former portfolio manager at Paul Tudor Jones' hedge fund firm, is prepping a hedge fund in London for early next year. Jeschke, 32, is planning a macro fund that will, among other things, emphasize
The bank estimates that retail revenues in China will keep improving thanks to an increase in consumer confidence and a higher click-through rate on online ads.

"We anticipate higher spending in lieu of competition in retail, rising content spending, and a step up in spending in Southeast Asia, with , and payments falling in place for BABA in Indonesia," analyst

"We lift our 12m SOTP-based target price 1% to US$211, mainly on higher revenues as higher near-term spending does not impact our longer-term view on segment margins."

Online sales only account for about 14% of retail sales in China, the bank says, so there is plenty of room left for Alibaba to grow. Here's full breakdown:

"Recent strong growth in Chinas retail industry and online consumption reinforced our bullish view on BABAs China retail segment," said the bank. "We expect the company to continue to outperform."

Shares of Alibaba are up 74.55% over the past year, and are currently trading near $180  17% below Goldman Sachs price target.

Such astronomical growth has been met with some skepticism though. Alibaba is currently the most shorted stock in the world by a magnitude of two, and short sellers are refusing to throw in the towel despite losing billions of dollars.
However, there are some who stand out more than the rest because their struggle is different.

In an era, where Islamophobia is at one of its highest points in history with an American president that is clearly anti-Muslim, these women are still able to ignore the bias and do their best to shatter stereotypes.

Here are six young Muslim women you need to know about.

1. Saufeeya Goodson: This young lady is breaking the stereotype that you can not be modest and stylish at the same time. Using various platforms, her blog and Instagram included, this 23-year-old is showing that it is possible to be both, even with a hijab.

Her goal is to use visual presentation to fight and change the discrimination of the hijab, Aquila Style reports. In her words, "What interests me the most is the power that comes with visual presentation. It speaks volumes [with] colours, shapes, angles, poses, places and the quality of the subject. Understand the purpose and reasoning behind the hijab. Grow in knowledge, know that the hijab isnt just a headpiece and modest clothing, it goes further and beyond all that. Hijab is the way you act, the way you speak, the way you carry yourself and so much more!

This has led to her being featured in big publications, like Vogue and Teen Vogue. The Dubai-based Fashion blogger co-runs @modestroute, formerly known as hijabfashion on Instagram. It has amassed 2.9M followers.

2. Blair Imani: She is an activist and feminist doing her best to battle the hate against Muslims and people in general. Recently, she opened up about her experience after converting to Islam two years ago and being queer. She said, In 2015, I converted to Islam and quickly learned about the discrimination Muslims have been facing first hand. As I began to wear hijab, my visibility as Muslim women seemed to invite harassment. A lot of people assume that Im homophobic, or that queer Muslims could not and did not exist. I do exist.

Now, this millennial is fighting to ensure that Black, Muslim women and people, in general, are treated fairly. She does this through Equality for HER, an NGO for feminine identifying individuals of which she is the founder and Executive Director of.

She is also the Civic Action & Campaign Lead at DoSomething.org and a Press Officer at Planned Parenthood. She contributes to Huffington Post, VICE and others.

3. Lamyaa Hanchaoui: She is a British-Moroccan spoken word artist, self-taught painter, human rights and mental health activist. As a human rights activist, she volunteers at the Human Relief Foundation.

She was thrust into the spotlight when a powerful video of her poem surfaced online. The poem, Dont Give up, is a motivational piece that encourages young Muslims to hold on in the face of adversity.

This 22-year-old is currently studying for her BA (Hons) in International Relations at the University of Westminster in London, United Kingdom. According to her Facebook page, she is also a research intern at Race on the Agenda  ROTA, an organisation that focuses on inequality and other issues concerning Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

4. Halima Aden: This young is just as inspiring as the others on this list. Like Saufeeya Goodson, her battlefield is the fashion and beauty industry. Here, she seeks to destroy stereotypes, particularly those concerning the hijab. This earned the 19-year-old the worlds first hijab-wearing Muslim model title. Despite this big deal, Aden is not slowing down anytime.

According to her interview with Vogue, the Somali-American Muslim teen hopes to be a role model for American Muslim youth, work with UNICEF and seeing the restoration of Somalia.

In her words, Every little girl deserves to see a role model thats dressed like her, resembles her, or even has the same characteristics as her. My grandmother, who lives there, thinks its wishful thinking. But I believe it can happen.

5. Maryam Bukar Hassan: You guys know we couldn't make a list without adding at least one of our own, right? Thus, we are giving you a double dose of our Nigerian awesomeness. First, we have Maryam, a poet and motivational speaker.

Maryam is a unique 20-year-old with a heart of gold that comes through in her activist work. She also cares about ensuring that people understand that Islam is a religion of peace, not violence like it is often painted to be. Maryam creates this awareness through Deen At heart and social media.

She recently performed an inspiring poem at the inaugural edition of Kaduna Book and Arts Festival (KABAFEST 2017). Maryam is the only daughter of Kannywood actress, Hauwa Maina and a newlywed.

6. Haneefah Adam: Haneef is the second Nigerian on the list. She is a medical scientist and lifestyle blogger. She is an exceptional visual artist, who uses food to make art that reflects our rich culture.

In 2016, her works gained a lot of media attention after she submitted some food art photos for the #TechMeetsArtNG competition, sponsored by Samsung Mobile Nigeria and Rele Gallery.

That same year, she caught the eye of CNN, BBC, Mic, Huffington Post and almost every other media heavyweight with her Barbie Doll's makeover.

While she is not an activist like others on this list, no one can deny how exceptional she is.
One of such Nigerian academic ambassadors is Eugene C.X. Ikejemba, a 27-year-old Nigerian, who has sets fabulous records in a doctorate degree in the Netherlands.

Eugene, who loves to be addressed as Xavier Iyke, recently emerged as the first PhD student to finish the program in less than three years at the University of Twente, Enschede.

This compared to what obtains in many other universities around the world takes four to five years to complete a PhD program, but Xavier finished it in record time without funding from any source.

The 27-year-old did not only finish the program like no one has ever done in the university, according to him, he is also the first PhD student to publish six articles in highly reputed scientific journals while the practice all over the world encourages students to publish two or three journals.

Prior to his academic records in the Netherlands, the 27-year-old had made academic excellence a habit because he has a knack for making As in all exams.

Growing up in Plateau State, Xavier might not have a bright start to education when he started his academic pursuit in Nigeria. He admits he was not one of the best in secondary school at the prestigious Air Force Military School in Jos, but the school instilled the necessary discipline that saw him become a record setter in the Netherlands university.

In a bid to seek quality education, Xavier left Nigeria and went on to bag two bachelors degrees in two different universities.

"I got my first associate degree in Computer Science at the Institute of Technology and Business in Cape Town. I graduated with a cum laude (straight A's). After that, I started the second one in Industrial and Systems Engineering at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in Cape Town before moving to Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus to finish my degree (Also graduated with first class 4.00 out of 4.00)"

Xavier is probably one of the academic heroes that would return to the country someday and give back fantastically to the fatherland.

Still in Netherlands though, but the love of his fatherland is tied to his heart as he nurses the desire to make Nigerians benefit from his wealth of wisdom.

This according to him informs the reason he focuses his research efforts on sustainable energy to contribute his quota to the development of Nigeria 'because without Energy we will not be able to move forward in Nigeria and even in Sub Saharan Africa as a region'

Explaining how he intends to give back to Nigeria, Xavier said he has dedicated 100 percent of his time to provide solutions to sustainable energy problems in the country.

"I actually have dedicated 100% of my time to providing solutions to the country. Despite the fact that I have the opportunity to focus on myself and develop but I have decided and dedicated 100% of my time to implementing only sustainable projects and most importantly providing sustainable solutions for existing and new projects with one aim- creating long terms jobs for the people in Sub Sahara Africa including Nigeria"

Patriotically, Xavier believes giving back to the country is not a mere desire but an effort to ensure the coming generation do not suffer from our negligence and inactions to make Nigeria a better place for them.

ALSO READ: How series of bitter experience spurs Nigerian student to greatness in Cyprus

He, therefore, enjoined the youths to "focus on living sustainably and do things that contribute to the society in a positive way, because whether we like it or not our kids and grandkids will be the ones to suffer the consequences"

Such is the mindset of a patriot who is willing and thinking about what to give the country and not what the country out of the many problems it is facing is ready to give him.

Xavier has shown his academic brilliance to the world and is nursing a desire to return to the country to give back. Nigeria is waiting to receive her proud sons and daughters abroad to help turn things around until then, the Pulse Nigeria team wishes you the best.
The deceased who was a Location Scout for the TV programme was killed on Monday, September 11, 2017, while searching for new sites for the Netflix hit.

El Pais reported that his body was found in a bullet marred car in Temascalapa, one of the rural areas in Mexico.

"We are aware of the passing of Carlos Munoz Portal, a well-respected location scout, and send our condolences to his family.

"The facts surrounding his death are still unknown as authorities continue to investigate," a statement released by Netflix reads following his death.

Facts about the circumstances of his passing remains blurry for the time being but a friend of the deceased suggests that he might have been killed after spooking some dark figures in the area.

The companion also mentioned that Munoz was handling a camera in the vehicle before he was murdered.

His visit to the area was part of activities directed at finding new locations for the fourth season of the television programme expected to focus on the origins of the Juarez cartel.

But the recent killing of the scout has raised safety concerns, and may possibly encourage the production crew to continue filming in Columbia.
It was gathered that the trader was killed for allegedly making fun and laughing at the son of a traditional ruler in the area.

Information has it that the incident happened after one Bashiru Ahmed, the son of the Sarki Hausawa of Okokomaiko was told by the deceased colleagues that he was laughing at him after he fell into the gutter.

When Ahmed confronted the Suya seller, he allegedly denied laughing at him but that explanation did not go down well with Ahmed and his gang threw the Suya sellers meat on the floor and left.

The Suya seller was said to have gone to the palace of the Sarki Hausawa to report the incident and the traditional ruler, Alhaji Adamu Ahmed Gaya, was said to have pacified him and promised to pay for the damage but the next day, the Suya seller was allegedly shot dead by two assailants on a motorcycle.

The Suya seller's colleagues suspected Ahmed in the murder and on sighting him on an Okada later, pursued and killed him near Alaba Rago area before moving to his father's palace and set it ablaze.

The situation would have gotten out of hand but for the intervention of the Area Commander of Area 'E' Command, ACP Auwal Musa, the Commander of the Rapid Response Squad [RRS], ACP Tunji Disu and Officers of OP Mesa who were quickly drafted to the area to maintain peace.
The suspect, Mohammed Buhari, according to Total Media, had allegedly duped the Senator representing Niger South in the National Assembly, Mustapha Sani, of N400,000, by pretending to be the Emir of Lapai, Alhaji Umaru Tafida.

According to the police prosecutor Abdullahi Aliyu, Senator Sani had lodged a complaint with the Commissioner of Police to the effect that Buhari defrauded him of the said sum of money.

The complainant, Senator Aliyu, had some time in July, received a phone call from someone who identified himself as the Emir of Lapai, Alhaji Umaru Tafida, requesting financial assistance to run his palace.

The caller was said to have forwarded an account number to which the Senator paid in the sum of N400, 000.

The Senator later visited the Emir of Lapai in August and he denied ever calling or receiving any financial help from the lawmaker.

During a police investigation, it was discovered that Buhari had conspired with Fatima Mohammed who is also arraigned and one Hauwa Isah, now at large, to call the senator and defrauded him of the money, Aliyu told the court.

The prosecutor asked the court for an adjournment to enable the police to complete investigation, saying the offences contravened Sections 97 and 324 of the Penal Code.

Buhari and his accomplice, however, pleaded not guilty and their lawyer, Abubakar Maiyaki, urged the court to grant them bail and in his ruling, the president of the court, Magistrate Mohammed Gabi granted them bail of N100,000 each and one surety each in like sum, but ordered that they should be remanded in prison custody pending when they would meet the bail condition.
Constable Njau who is a member of the Presidential Escort Unit in that country, according to the Chronicle, reportedly shot the 23-year-old lady, Anne Wanjohi, five times after she turned down his marriage proposal at a cyber cafe where she worked in Nairobi city center.

After making sure Wanjohi was dead, Njau turned the gun on himself in an apparent murder cum suicide bid but survived the gunshot on himself and was rushed to the hospital where he is battling to survive.

The officer, it was gathered, had only known Wanjohi for three months but he was said to be so much in love with her that he had earlier threatened to kill her if she refused to marry him.

Witnesses say that Njau had arrived at the cyber cafe at around 7 pm and insisted on talking to Wanjohi the girlfriend who she was then attending to a client but he was said to have insisted on talking to her.

A co-worker and friend of the deceased narrated how the incident happened:

He wanted to talk to her about their relationship because she had wanted to break up with him over the past two weeks.

Anne was attending to a client but he insisted on talking to her. She said she was busy and needed to finish with the client.

Njau was said to have left the cyber cafe but allegedly told Wanjohi that he would be back after a few minutes. However, he was said to keep sending her text messages while he was away and by the time he returned, he found Wanjohi packing her things ready to leave.

He insisted on talking to her but she still refused and that was when he pulled out his gun and shot her in the hand.

The witness said that Njau shot at the deceased several times, he also threatened to shoot the cyber cafe attendants and any other person who tried to intervene.

I ran away from the scene and when I came back, the shooting had stopped, I found the two on the floor. Anne was dead, the co-worker said.

Confirming the incident, Nairobi Police boss, Japhet Koome, said that the officer had shot himself three times and he was injured on his left biceps and chest.

"Miraculously he survived after shooting himself three times. He was taken to hospital in critical condition," said Koome.
Below are 10 African countries with some very powerful name meanings.

1. Sierra Leone

The name Sierra Leone dates back to 1462 when a Portuguese explorer sailed down the coast of West Africa.

Experts still argue that the shape or climatic conditions influenced Pedro da Cintra to come up with Sierra Lyoa meaning Lion Mountains.

Some say the coastal regions looked like lions teeth. Others suggest he thought the thunderstorms over the mountainous peninsula sounded like the roar of a lion. The British officially adopted the name Sierra Leone in 1787.

2. Mozambique

Mozambique, itself is a derivative of the name of the Arab Sheikh, Mussa Bin Bique, who ruled the area at the time when the Portuguese arrived. Mozambique is the Portuguese interpretation of Mussa Bin Bique.

3. Burkina Faso

The name 'Burkina Faso" means Land of Incorruptible People, which was adopted in 1984.

The country was given a new name in 1984 by then President Thomas Sankara

4. Tanzania

On 26 April 1964, Tanganyika united with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

The country was renamed the United Republic of Tanzania on October 29 of that year. The name Tanzania is a blend of Tanganyika and Zanzibar and previously had no significance.

5. Ethiopia

The name Ethiopia derived, from the Greek form, aithiopia, from the two words aitho, I burn, and ops, face.

The former name of Ethiopia is Abyssinia, a word of uncertain origin. Some people consider it comes from an Arabic word meaning mixed, a reference to the countrys many ethnic groups; others believe that the name belonged to an early Ethiopian tribe.

6. Zambia

The territory of what is now Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia from 1911. It was renamed Zambia at independence in 1964. The new name of Zambia was derived from the Zambezi river (The Zambezi may mean "River of God").

7. Eritrea

"Eritrea" is an ancient name, associated in the past with its Greek form Erythraia, derived Latin form Erythra. This name relates to that of the Red Sea, then called the Erythran Sea.

Eritrea simply means "Land of the Red Sea".

8. Mali

The name was originally derived from the Mandinka or Bambara word mali, meaning hippopotamus, but it eventually came to mean "the place where the king lives".

9. Uganda

Uganda takes its name from the Buganda kingdom. "Buganda" was the kingdom of the 52 clans of the Baganda. Baganda ("Brothers and Sisters" or "Bundle People") is itself short for Baganda Ba Katonda ("Brothers and Sisters of God"), a reference to an indigenous creation story.

10. Sudan
Well, you can find forest elephants in these parts of Nigeria... Only they are dying.

It's sad to see that the Savannah elephants in the northern have received more attention than the forest species in the south.

The African Bush Elephant (Loxodonta Africana) and the forest Elephant (Loxodonta Cyclotis) are found to be different from one another. The bush elephant lives in the Savannah or desert area while the forest elephant lives in dense lowland forest. The Savannah elephant can be found in Southern and Eastern part of Africa.

Some of the major problems of the Nigerian forest Elephants are forest conversion for other uses, habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching for their ivory, among others.

The forest elephants in Nigeria found in Ondo, Osun and Ogun states are more threatened by deforestation. Experts fear that about 40 forest elephants are remaining in Omo, Shaha and Oluwa forest reserves. Hunting, logging and farming methods used in the forest have affected them and depleted their population over the years.

Only organised conservation, public support and enlightenment and good habitat management are capable of saving the forest elephant species from extinction in Nigeria.
But how would you react if you found out that the person you were in a relationship with was actively scrolling through a dating app?

A survey of 2,100 people in the U.K. revealed that this questionable practice was a lot more commonplace that one would think, with 35 percent of those polled admitting to using a dating app while in a relationship with someone else.

Law firm Slater and Gordon was prompted to investigate the usage of dating apps by those in relationships after family lawyers started noticing dating apps being cited in divorce proceedings. A press release detailing the survey compared a number of different variables, including how as age and sex affected responses.

The findings revealed males were more likely to use a dating app behind their partner's back than females, with 46 percent of males and 21 percent of females admitting to the practice.

The top reasons males gave for looking on dating apps while involved with someone else were "bored," "sex life was dwindling," and "arguing a lot." Females cited "bored," "arguing a lot," and "lacking attention" as their top reasons. If you find yourself relating to the "bored" reasoning, here's how to fix a ho-hum relationship.

These were all people that admitted to doing this behind their partner's back, assuming their partner was unaware of their sneaky swiping. The survey also looked into how people would respond if they knew their partner was using a dating app behind their back.

74 percent of those surveyed said they would consider divorce if they found their partner using a dating app and 51 percent said would dump their partner on the spot if they caught them. 50 percent said that they would expect their partner to delete all dating apps upon becoming "official."

However, it seems that the younger generation is a little more forgiving, or perhaps not in as many serious commitments, as two-thirds of people ages 16-24 said they would forgive their partner if they caught them on an app.
A statement by DSP Babalola Adewole, Command Public Relations Officer in Minna, said the arrest was based on information that the victim was found dead with injuries on his neck.

Police in Tafa rushed to the scene and recovered a cutlass allegedly used in cutting the deceased and one T-shirt suspected to belong to one of the suspects.

He said a toy pistol was also recovered from their possession.

He said the command had also commenced investigating a case of rape involving an eight year-old girl in Lapai Local Government Area.
The team will be led by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Borno state, Kashim Shettima, with the delegation comprising Governor Aminu Masari of Katsina, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto, GovernorAbubakar Bagudu of Kebbi and GovernorSimon Lalong of Plateau state.

In a statement issued on behalf of the governors by Tambuwal's spokesman, Malam Imam Imam, he said, "The delegation will hold meetings with their counterparts in Rivers, Abia and Imo States.

"Apart from the visit to political leaderships in those states, the delegation is expected to meet with traditional and religious leaders. They will also confer with Northerners resident in those states.

"Importantly, the delegation will reassure their counterparts in the South South and South East that all Nigerians are free to stay in all parts of the country, especially in the North, and that the entire North stands with the people of South East in this period of heightened tension."

ALSO READ: Buhari arrives New York for UN General Assembly
In a five-page letter addressed to the president about the military's ongoing Operation Python Dance II in the region, Ekweremadu warned him that it could heighten the tension that could lead to a full scale civil war.

The letter, entitled, 'Rising Tension in the South East: Re: Appeal to Call Off Operation Egwu Eke' made a pointed reference to the clashes that have sparked between the military and members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Senator Ekweremadu advised the president to tread cautiously in addressing the agitations of the group in the region so as to avoid repeating the same mistakes the government made with deadly terrorist group, Boko Haram.

ALSO READ: Saraki says IPOB not yet a terrorist organisation

Ekweremadu suggested to the president that sitting down with leaders from the South East and addressing the feelings of neglect coming from people of the region would be a better way to finding a lasting solution to separatist agitations.

The letter read, "The peace of Nigeria has never been this fragile since the end of the civil war and as leaders we must do everything humanly possible and legitimate to hold the nation together in peace and prosperity.

"As President and Commander-in-Chief, you would agree with me that there is need for caution.

"Recall, Your Excellency, that the South East Caucus of the Senate met with you on November 9, 2016. We had a heart-to-heart discussion on pressing issues affecting the South East.

"Recall that on the issue of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, who was then in detention, we pleaded for your intervention and strongly advised against his continued detention. We were of the view that his continued detention would only further popularise, and in fact make him a hero.

"Furthermore, we informed you that when the leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, was detained during the administration of late President Umar Musa YarAdua, we approached the former President and appealed to him to immediately release Chief Uwazuruike to avoid creating a mountain out of a molehill.

"He heeded the advice and Chief Uwazuruike and MASSOB have never posed any threat to the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria ever after.

"I recall, however, that on the appeal for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, you told us to allow the judicial process to run its cause.

"But, in retrospect, it proved to be a big mistake on the side of government as his continued detention made him a hero among a cross-section of the people.

"I am afraid, Your Excellency, that the government is embarking on yet another huge misjudgment today by adopting a military option to the Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB challenge.

"As things stand, the reaction of the youth in the region is unpredictable. It is also possible that their reactions and actions of the military may be misrepresented or exaggerated on the social media and trigger a chain of other actions in other parts of the country also.

"Not even Your Excellency or anyone else for that matter can certainly foretell the outcome of such chain of actions, reactions, and reprisals. But at least, you are in a position to imagine the number of the avoidable casualties and deaths.

"Your Excellency, you were an active participant in the civil war. With the benefits of your age, experience, exposure and present position as the President of this great nation, I know you would not wish any part of Nigeria to go through that experience again.

"I appeal to you to use these benefits to avert any descent into the 1967 - 1970 experience. It is obvious to all of us that the wounds of that war are yet to heal.

"Therefore, as President, duty calls on you to not only ensure that the wounds fully heal, but also that they do not reoccur.

"By the provisions of Section 215 (3) of the 1999 Constitution on the powers of the President to deploy the police for the maintenance and securing of public safety and public order as well as Section 217 (2)(c) on the deployment of the armed forces to quell insurrection, I do not believe that the IPOB issue, as it is today, deserves military solution.

"We must objectively differentiate civil disobedience, displeasing as it is, from insurrection or mutiny.

"As a General, you would agree with me that the armed forces are not trained to contain civil disobedience or civil protest.

"Therefore, deploying soldiers in the present circumstance is like using fuel to quench candlelight. I am very worried that our armed forces that are already heavily stretched are being saddled with the responsibilities outside their primary constitutional duties.

"As a lawyer, let me most respectfully point out that the courts have severally frowned at the deployment of soldiers in circumstances as we presently have in the South East, describing it as totally unconstitutional.

"Besides, let us be mindful that it was the mishandling of the Boko Haram sect, especially the elimination of its leader, Mohammed Yusuf that escalated into the full-blown insurgency we have in the North East for many years now.

"That singular misadventure has led to wanton destruction of lives and property, Nigerians and foreigners alike, in the North East in particular and other parts of the country as well.

"It has affected both the Federal Government and the international community financially, with monumental resources that should have gone into development now channeled into containing the Boko Haram menace.

"Military option did not also work in the Niger Delta. It will certainly not work in the South East. As was the case in the Niger Delta, dialogue is the best option.

"With the benefit of the hindsight, therefore, it is my hope that you will heed my humble advice to withdraw the troops lest we unwittingly find ourselves in the same circumstance as we have in the North East.

"As a quick win, the position of these leaders was that the Federal Government should, in the meantime, do more in giving the South East a sense of belonging by addressing the palpable marginalization and exclusion of the region to diffuse the growing disenchantment with the Nigerian project and sentiments for Nnamdi Kanu's position and message.

"Your Excellency would recall that it was exactly the same suggestion earlier adduced by the South East Senate Caucus during the November 2016 meeting with you.

"We especially appealed to you to address the total exclusion of the entire South East region in the headship and commanding heights of nation's security agencies and organs. Although you promised to address this anomaly, this, regrettably, has not happened.

"Furthermore, I have it on good authority that the security chiefs also advised along the line of giving the South East a sense of belonging by way of appointments and infrastructural development. Regrettably, that advice is yet to be implemented.

"Your Excellency, between 1967 and now is well over 50 years. As a seasoned soldier, you would agree with me that the character of war has changed dramatically. Therefore, the outcome of another war in any part of Nigeria, God forbid, will be unpredictable.

"By Gods grace, you are back and fully recovered now. I would like to advise that you meet with the leaders of the South East to continue with the dialogue as soon as you get the military deployed to the South East to return to their barracks.

"I speak for myself and other leaders of the South East that we will make ourselves available towards finding political solutions to the agitations in the region. In the meantime, be assured that the South East leaders are already taking the necessary steps to ensure that the situation does not escalate."

Operation Python Dance II is a military exercise aimed at combating kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and other violent crimes in the southeast region.

Due to violent clashes between IPOB members and the Nigerian Army in Abia state, the separatist group was branded a "militant terrorist organisation" in a statement by Director, Defence Information (DDI), Maj.-Gen. John Enenche, on Friday, September 15.

After an emergency meeting in Enugu, the South East Governors' Forum announced the proscription of activities of the group later on Friday.
The properties, which are reportedly worth 74,000,000 dirham (N7.1bn), are located at E146 Emirates Hill and J5 Emirates Hill.

It was further reported that the anti-graft agency will be exploiting the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty the Federal Government had recently signed with the government of the UAE in applying for the forfeiture of the properties through the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

We have informed the UAE authorities that from our investigation, we believe Diezani bought the properties with the proceeds of crime. The whole process is still ongoing but with the MLAT, signed by President Buhari, it has made work a lot easier for us, the report quoted a source.

ALSO READ: Here are 12 luxury properties Diezani spent almost $500m on

The Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty, signed by President Muhammadu Buhari, are Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters, Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Civil and Commercial Matters, Agreement on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons and an Extradition Treaty.
The Ekiti state Governor also said that he will continue to speak out for any group that is being marginalised or oppressed.

Fayose, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Idowu Adelusi also condemned the Ekiti state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for alleging that he is an IPOB sponsor.

The statement reads: We cannot all be cowed. The militarization of Nigeria, being witnessed now can only be likened to 1984 when General Muhammadu Buhari was military Head of State.

Killing people in the Southeast just because some people are agitating is wrong and I wonder why none of our so called human rights activists is talking.

Herdsmen have sacked a whole community in this country, has anyone been arrested for all the killings by herdsmen?

ALSO READ:IPOB honours Ekiti Governor with honorary citizenship

If because I am speaking against the wanton killings being done by the military in the Southeast, the APC is saying that Im funding IPOB, was I the one funding the people of Southern Kaduna when I condemned the killings there? Was I funding the Agatus in Benue State when I condemned their killings by Fulani herdsmen?

Was I funding the Shiite Muslims when I condemned the killings of El-Zakzaky followers in Zaria?
According to Punch, they also condemned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for allegedly attacking Hausas in Rivers,

The militants, in a statement also urged the Federal Government to release funds to the South-East states.

They said We condemn the IPOB attack and destruction of properties in Oyigbo in Rivers State; we have warned this people several times that Rivers State and the entire Niger Delta region is not and would not be part of Biafra. They rush to Rivers State to attack Hausa community in order to involve the Niger Delta territory in the ill-advised secession agenda of IPOB.

We are appealing to the Nigerian government to allow Igbo to go and have their independence without the involvement of other zones since they are tired of being in Nigeria.

Rather the government should allow them to be on their own, stop funding the South Eastern states with the Niger Delta money. They should be on their own, generate their funds and pay their bills. It is high time Nigeria allowed Igbo to be on their own to avoid another civil war.

Nigeria is not ready to go into another civil war, we therefore appeal to the government to allow Igbo to go and be on their own, all the serving governors, senators, House of Reps members, ministers, Ambassadors from the South East extraction should resign immediately and join Nnamdi Kanu to form Biafra government, let peace reign in Nigeria.

The militants also condemned the military for listing IPOB as a terrorist organization.

Reacting to former President Olusegun Obasanjos advise to President Buhari to dialogue with IPOB, they said It is totally wrong that the man who destroyed Udi, Bayelsa State in Niger Delta can today talk about dialogue.

ALSO READ: South East Governors ban IPOB

During his tenure Asari Dokubo and others were locked up for over one year without trial while he was busy siphoning Niger Delta money, today he is talking about dialogue.
The group, in a communique issued in Lagos on Monday, commended Daramola, a native of Ode-Aye in Okitipupa Local Government area of Ondo State, for his achievements and the enduring peace in Ilaje/EseOdo oil producing communities.

The second National Council on Niger Delta (NCND) summit and the first in Ondo State was held in collaboration with the state government in Akure from Sept. 7 to Sept. 14.

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, addressed the meeting with the theme Fast-tracking the Development and Peace of the Niger-Delta Region: Options and Prospects.

The NCND is the highest advisory body to the Federal Government on development policies, programmes and strategies on security issues in the Niger-Delta.

The group said: The Niger-Delta summit was the first of its type in Ondo State since the establishment of the Niger-Delta Ministry."

It is commendable that such an all-important event was held in the state to discuss with the oil producing communities, stakeholders and the Federal Government on how to develop the region.

The group commended the minister for collaborating with Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu to develop the state and to explore the economic potential of the state in the areas of tourism and bitumen exploration.

Daramola, a result-oriented person, who never believes in propaganda, has quietly achieved a lot in youth empowerment through Agric-Tech training to hundreds of youths in the state, especially the oil producing communities."
According to Punch, the Army chief said the Army has the constitutional mandate to protect Nigerian citizens from internal and external threats.

Buratai also said that the Army is not under any political pressure as a result of Operation Python Dance II.

The Army chief also said You see, you said political pressure. You should understand the context by which the Nigerian Army is operating. Nigerian Army is part of the political consideration in the democratic system.

Whatever anyone is saying, we will refer him back to the constitution. There are several provisions that give us those responsibilities and also to carry out such tasks as duly assigned by the government or by the constituted authority.

He said this while speaking to newsmen at the 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference 2017 of the Chief of Army Staff at the Army Headquarters Officers Mess.
Osinbajo said some of the things he did with his friends during childhood were best left unsaid because if we are to say the bad things, the social media will be full.

In a report by The Punch, the VP made this statement on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at a send-off organised in honour of his friend, Ade Asekun, who has been appointed as the new Nigerian ambassador to Canada.

The Barbecue Send-off Party, which held at the Opebi, Ikeja, also had the gathering of the trending trio and example of age-long friendship, Yemi Osinbajo, Tunde Fowler and Ade Asekun.

Speaking on the occasion, the VP took time in sharing interesting facts about his two childhood friends.

On Fowler, the Federal Inland Revenue Service boss, he said: "Tunde is the only one I know who can actually be reading and dozing off and still takes in all that he has read. I assure you, Tunde would doze off and still come out excellently. Over time, he has proved to be an excellent guy.

On Asekun, the VP said: Ade, I think, is a very, very deserving person because hes always been, not just a faithful and loyal friend, but I think that he is exceptional. Hes very honest. I dont know many people in this country who are as honest as Ade.

ALSO READ: Osinbajo is a baby boy for life!

His integrity is something that I have always found very admirable. And it all explains why he has done so very well in all the jobs that he has done. Hes always the person to trust, someone to rely on. And I know that even in this new assignment, he will still be the same person  a person to trust.

Fowler on his part, urged friends, family and well wishers to pray for his friend and Vice President Osinbajo saying his job is delicate and tasking.

I call him my brother now. Pray for our Vice-President, for the good job hes doing. Its not easy. Trust me, its not easy to be in that position and of course our brother, Asekun, we have all types of names for one another, we are going to miss him but one thing I am sure of is that when he gets to Canada, you will see changes, people will see Nigeria in a different light, Fowler said.
Chidoka said, Okeke brings administrative expertise and private sector experience required to deliver dividends of democracy in the state.

Okeke brings wealth of first-hand knowledge on how to build modern economy.

His work as Chief Economist of one of Nigerias biggest bank, brings a network of contacts in international financial centres that would be of relevance for the transformation we intend to deliver, he said.

Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation, said that the running mate would be a strong partner in the commitment to transform the public service in the state to meet peoples hope.

The statement said that Okeke, in his acceptance of the ticket, commended Chidoka for the impact he made in various offices he had held in the country.

Okeke said he was happy to be part of the economic evolution about to begin in the state.
According to a report by The Punch, the Adamawa State chapter of the APC, are working at wading into the current explosion by the Turaki Adamawa.

The Organising Secretary of the State chapter of APC, Ahmed Lawan, says, "Plans by the state working committee to wade into the issue have been delayed by the participation of some members of the state exco, who travelled to Saudi Arabia to observe the hajj.

 Some of our members, including the chairman of the APC in the state, are on hajj; we are only waiting for them to return and we are going to discuss this issue. Definitely, our meeting is going to dwell on Atiku, perhaps we may form a committee to reach out to the former vice-president to ask him what his grievances are. Definitely, if theres anything we can do as a party at the state level, we will do.

However, Lawan also said the party might apply sanctions against the former vice-president over his alleged disparaging utterances against the party, if found guilty.

The utterances of the former vice-president only portrayed him as a man whose sole motive for contributing to the success of the party is to profit from it, whilst it ought to have been selfless. We all sacrificed, nobody wanted to get something from it. If you want to contest, you wait for 2019 to test your popularity. If you are very popular, the people will listen to you and vote for you.

"Theres no need for any utterance which is capable of portraying the party in bad light. We are very surprised that the former vice-president came out to say the party didnt reward him, which is like saying the party didnt reward him enough. We all sacrificed, nobody did it because we wanted to get something out of it.

ALSO READ: Atiku berates APC, says party is undemocratic

When our committee meets him, if definitely what hes saying is against the party, the party is going to take action on it; but if he lodges his complaints and the party feels theres merit in what hes saying, then definitely the party will look into it.

But for now, we are waiting for the members of Exco to come back. We will summon a meeting and then take a decision, Lawan said.
Trump is due to meet Abbas on Wednesday before the Palestinian president's address to the United Nations General Assembly the same day.

The US leader has been seeking to restart peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians, in search of what he has labelled the "ultimate deal".

But Palestinian officials have grown increasingly frustrated at the failure of Trump's team to commit to the two-state solution, the focus of international diplomacy since at least the early 1990s.

Members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government openly oppose a two-state solution, while the premier himself has indicated in recent months that he plans no "uprooting" of settlements in the occupied West Bank.

"It would be utterly ridiculous if Mr Trump doesn't eventually say that,"Nabil Shaath, a senior Abbas adviser, told journalists in Ramallah when asked about the two-state solution.

"What the hell are we negotiating? We are negotiating a diplomatic accord between Abu Mazen and Mr Netanyahu where they can meet each other? No," he added, referring to Abbas by his Arabic nickname.

Trump's aides -- led by his Middle East envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner and senior international negotiations aide Jason Greenblatt -- have been ferrying between leaders from the two sides in recent months.

But Shaath said he was not optimistic that the meeting between Abbas and Trump would lead to significant shifts.

"I don't know if Mr Trump has much to say. Already his delegation that was here, Mr Kushner and Mr Greenblatt, has requested a waiting period of three to four months before Mr Trump is ready with a formulation to get the peace process started."
Their impact has been profound with a major study of the 2,300-kilometre (1,400-mile) long reef's health in 2012 showing coral cover halved over the past 27 years, with 42 percent of the damage attributed to the pest.

Now Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) research has shown they avoid areas where the Pacific triton sea snail -- also known as the giant triton -- is present.

The snails -- which can grow to half a metre -- have a well developed sense of smell and can hunt their prey by scent alone.

Research showed they were particularly fond of crown-of-thorns, but only eat a few each week, and with the snail almost hunted to extinction for their shells, there are not many left.

This led the Australian government to Monday announce funding to research breeding them.

"The possibilities the triton breeding project opens up are exciting," said Queensland federal MP Warren Entsch.

"If successful, this research will allow scientists to closely look at the impact of giant tritons on crown-of-thorns behaviour and test their potential as a management tool to help reduce coral lost to outbreaks."

Giant tritons held at AIMS have laid numerous egg capsules, with over 100,000 swimming larvae hatching in the last month. But they are so rare, almost nothing is known about their life cycle.

The research will focus on helping the larvae transition to their juvenile and adult stages, providing valuable insights into their biology, with the ultimate aim to deploy them to prevent crown-of-thorns aggregating closely during spawning seasons.

Until now expensive chemicals such as bile salts have been used to try and eradicate the starfish, but they can harm other marine organisms.

In April, research showed they can be safely killed by common household vinegar, but dive teams would need to individually inject each starfish before it dies and breaks-up, making it a massive job.
Gary Cohn, the chief White House economic adviser, reiterated Trump's opposition to the landmark accord as he met over breakfast with officials from other major economies at the start of the UN General Assembly, an annual week of diplomacy.

But French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, whose government has made preserving the agreement reached in the French capital in 2015 a top priority, held out hope.

"We take note of President Trump's statements on not respecting it, but for the moment no action has been taken and we can still hope to persuade him," he told reporters.

"We have to make sure that international pressure is strong and that we do not stop the agreement from being implemented," he said, noting that French President Emmanuel Macron has called a climate summit for December 12 in Paris.

The Trump administration has sent out mixed messages on the Paris deal in recent days.

European officials suggested after a climate meeting in Montreal on Saturday that Washington might be ready to re-engage with the pact.

That prompted a firm pushback from the White House which insisted its stance was unchanged -- only for Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to assert a day later that the US was studying ways to cooperate with other countries on what, he said, "is still a challenging issue."

Extreme weather

Trump, whose Republican Party has strong ties to the fossil fuel industry, has said that the Paris agreement is unfair to the world's largest economy.

In pulling out, the United States would be the only country outside the Paris accord other than war-torn Syria and Nicaragua, which had pressed for a stricter deal.

The agreement, championed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, calls for countries to set their own plans with a goal of keeping global warming over this century under two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) from pre-industrial levels.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned Monday that there was no time to spare, estimating that more than 20 million people have already been displaced by floods, storms or other extreme weather linked to climate change since 2008.

"In Paris, we rose to a global challenge. Now we have an even bigger challenge: raising ambition and staying on course," Guterres said.

But in the wake of Trump's move, the UN chief focused on action by non-state players such as businesses and regional governments.

Governor Jerry Brown of California, the most populous US state, has called a meeting of non-governmental players on climate change for next year.

"America is not run by Donald Trump," Brown told a forum called by Guterres.

"We are a country of diverse power centers, and mobilizing those power centers that are not controlled by the president is still a very worthwhile goal and very powerful," he said.

Action at local level

Former vice president turned environmental champion Al Gore warned of the rapid worsening of climate change, pointing out that Hurricane Harvey which battered Texas last month was the type of rain that was only likely to happen every 25,000 years.

"We are departing the familiar bounds of history as we have known it since our civilization began," Gore told a conference of the World Economic Forum on the UN sidelines.

Both Gore and former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg, who is serving as a UN special envoy on cities and climate change, said that the United States could still meet its Obama-era commitments through private sector action.

"We are winning this, but we must win it more quickly," Gore said.

Cohn, a former Goldman Sachs investment banker, at his meeting with officials of major economies discussed the role of US energy technology in both economic growth and lowering carbon emissions, a White House official said.
Castilla's body was found Friday in the neighboring state of Puebla, a week after she left a nightclub and got in a private vehicle.

Prosecutors say the driver kidnapped her and took her to a hotel, where he sexually assaulted her and strangled and beat her to death.

Afterward, he dumped the body in an area near the hotel.

The demonstrators marched from Mexico City's Zocalo, or central plaza, to the attorney general's office where they staged performances denouncing the inaction of the authorities in the face of violence against women.

"We live with fear and that is a reality," said Pixie, a 27-year-old teacher who covered her face in a fuschia colored ski mask to evoke the vulnerability many women experience.

Edgar Arriaga, a 22-year-old sociology student, criticized what he said was the "criminalization of women."

"It seems unjust to me to say that because you go out at night, because you like to party, or something like that, that it's a justification for murder."
The mass exodus of Rohingya refugees to neighbouring Bangladesh has billowed into an humanitarian emergency as aid groups struggle to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children.

There are acute shortages of nearly all forms of aid, with many Rohingya huddling under tarps as their only protection from monsoon rains.

Myanmar's government hinted Sunday that would not take back all who fled across the border, accusing those refugees of having links to militants whose raids on police posts in August set off the army backlash.

Any moves to block the refugees' return will likely inflame Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina, who will press the UN General Assembly for more global pressure on Myanmar to repatriate all of the Rohingya massing in shantytowns along her border.

Human Rights Watch also called for the "safe and voluntary return" of the displaced as it urged governments around the globe to punish Myanmar's army with sanctions for the "ongoing atrocities" against the Rohingya.

Call for arms embargo

"The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims," the group said in a statement.

It called on the UN General Assembly to make the crisis a priority, urging countries to issue travel bans and asset freezes on Myanmar officers implicated in the abuses, as well as expand arms emargoes.

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," said John Sifton, HRW's Asia advocacy director.

Myanmar's government has defended the military campaign as a legitimate crackdown on the Rohingya militants, who first emerged as a fighting force last October.

On Sunday Myanmar's Information Committee accused those who fled to Bangladesh -- more than a third of the Rohingya population -- of working in cahoots with the Rohingya militia, a rag-tag group of fighters armed with mostly rudimentary weapons.

"Those who fled the villages made their way to the other country for fear of being arrested as they got involved in the violent attacks," the statement said.

"Legal protection will be given to the villages whose residents did not flee," it added.

The violence has gutted large swaths of northern Rahkine in just over three weeks, with fires visible almost daily across the border from the Bangladesh camps.

Some 30,000 ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Hindus have also been displaced by the unrest.

While the world has watched the refugee crisis unfold with horror, there is little sympathy for the Rohingya inside mainly Buddhist Myanmar.
Wallenberg used his diplomatic powers to help thousands of Jews flee Nazi-controlled Hungary during World War II and has been compared to Germany's Oskar Schindler.

After the Soviets entered Budapest just before the end of the war, Wallenberg was detained and jailed in the notorious headquarters of the secret police in Moscow, where he is believed to have died.

Wallenbergs niece Marie Dupuy in July launched a legal case against the FSB -- the successor of the Soviet-era KGB and NKVD spy agencies -- to force it to drop its refusal to release the full archive on the diplomat.

The move was the latest twist in the family's decades-long battle against Moscow to find out the truth about what happened to Wallenberg.

But after a one-day hearing in Moscow a judge at the Meshchansky district court ruled in favour of FSB and decided to reject the plea to release the full archives.

Lawyer Ivan Pavlov told journalists the family would appeal.

"The historical significance of Raoul Wallenberg gives us the right to know the truth, whatever it is. And sooner or later we will get hold of the truth," he said.

The USSR in 1957 made public a document saying Wallenberg died of heart failure in the Lubyanka prison in July 1947, but his family refused to accept the official version.

In 2000, the head of a Russian investigative commission said Wallenberg had been shot and killed by the secret police, but gave no specific details.

An FSB representative argued in court that the family's demands should be rejected in part because it said the archive documents include details about the "personal life" of other prisoners of the secret police in Moscow.

Unless the lawyers obtain consent from all the descendants of those named, the unexpurgated documents from 1947 can only be made available in 2022 after an official 75-year waiting period has passed, the FSB said.

"You can wait for these deadlines," the FSB representative Sergei Churikov told the family's lawyers.

He admitted that the papers have been censored with inked-out mentions of Wallenberg and some sections cut or torn out.

"Someone took measures to hide information," the FSB colonel said.

The family particularly wanted to gain access to lists of prisoners held in the secret police headquarters as well as transcripts of interrogations and information on prisoner transfers.

'Prisoner No. 7'

They specifically hoped to find out if Wallenberg was "Prisoner number 7", who according to records was interrogated on July 23, 1947 -- six days after Wallenberg supposedly died.

The family learned of the mysterious inmate from two historians who said they had been told by FSB archivists the prisoner was likely Wallenberg.

The FSB representative said the security service could not release documents on "Prisoner number 7" to Wallenberg's descendants since it was not clear whether they were related. He dismissed speculation that the prisoner was Wallenberg as a "hypothesis" by historians.
Guterres said in a statement that any dispute between the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan regional government should be resolved through dialogue and "constructive compromise."

The leaders of Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region are set to hold a referendum on independence on September 25.

Guterres said "any unilateral decision to hold a referendum at this time would detract from the need to defeat ISIL", the Islamic State group.

It would also undermine reconstruction efforts and the return of refugees, he added.

On Friday, the United States said the referendum should be called off, a stance also pushed by neighboring Turkey which fears another source of conflict in the region.

Iran warned on Sunday that independence for Iraqi Kurdistan would mean an end to all border and security arrangements with the regional government.

Guterres urged Iraqi leaders to "approach this matter with patience and restraint" and offered UN help to address the issue.

UN envoy to Iraq Jan Kubis told Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani last week that the United Nations was ready to broker negotiations to address "all the problems and outstanding issues" between the Kurds and Baghdad, according to a document obtained by AFP.

The negotiations would aim to reach a deal within two or three years on the "principles and arrangements" for future relations between Baghdad and the Kurdish region, the document said.
The pair met at Tillerson's hotel in New York ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, where officials are to debate US demands for reform to the world body's budget -- including cuts to Washington's contributions.

The United States, which makes large voluntary contributions to some UN missions alongside its formal dues to the organization, is seeking savings, but Grandi warned that this is not the time to cut refugee money.

At a photo opportunity with Tillerson, he was asked whether the UNHCR could continue to meet its current workload without US funding, he said: "I would say no."

"US aid is vital to what we do to support refugees around the world and to find solutions to their situations," he added, before reporters were ushered out and the pair began their meeting.

The UN refugee agency relies almost entirely on voluntary contributions to fund its programs worldwide.

Last year, the United States was the number one contributor, providing $1.5 billion to the $4 billion annual budget.
The Great Lakes have a new resident, brachionus leydigii, but no one's rolling out the welcome mat.

Although the species of microscopic zooplankton could prove to be harmless, it's yet another nonnative species invading and possibly threatening our waters.

Nor should we be pleased an invasive Asian carp recently was caught in the Little Calumet River, just 9 miles away from Lake Michigan, evidently bypassing barriers engineers have built to keep the fish out. Should Asian carp actually make their way into Lake Michigan, they could further upset, and potentially topple, the native ecosystem.

Both worrisome developments should spur us to pick up our game in protecting the Great Lakes from aquatic invaders.

Instead, key leaders in Congress and Springfield oppose doing more to protect the Great Lakes. They balk at the cost, and fear greater lake protections would hamper the shipping industry.

That's a dangerously shortsighted view.

Commercial fishing, boating and recreational activities pour $62 billion per year into the Great Lakes economy, by some estimates, and those industries could be hurt badly if Asian carp make their way into the lake. Lake Michigan is arguably Chicago's single greatest asset -- the very reason the city was established here -- and it requires stronger protections, not weaker.

In May, a U.S. Senate committee approved a bill that would weaken regulations designed to keep international ships from bringing invasive organisms to the Great Lakes in ballast water, which ships take on and pump out to improve stability. Ballast water already has dumped the quagga and zebra mussels in the lakes, and those creatures constantly block intake pipes for Chicago's drinking water -- an expensive problem.

Ballast water also, in all probability, explains how brachionus leydigii hitchhiked its way here. Weaker regulations would open the door for more unwanted aquatic arrivals.

Meanwhile in Springfield, the Rauner administration opposes a $275 million plan by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to keep Asian carp out of Lake Michigan by adding electric and sound barriers to existing defenses at the Brandon Road Lock and Dam on the Des Plaines River near Joliet.

If Rauner believes the state's share of the construction cost is too high -- $95 million, as estimated by the state -- and the barrier would hurt the barge industry, he should present his own plan to keep the carp out.

Joel Brammeier, president and CEO of the Alliance for the Great Lakes, says he is baffled by the Rauner administration's estimates of the costs and of the negative effect on the economy. In truth, he said, the state's share of the cost would be far less than $95 million and any shipping delays would be minimal.

But the best argument for taking action is this: Once Asian carp or other invasive species make their way into the Great Lakes, there's no getting them out. And that could lead to a potentially devastating series of events, with aquatic food chains breaking, the fishing industry paying the price and our crown jewel lake -- a haven for tourists and recreational fishermen alike -- thrown into disarray.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Americans are not clamoring for single-payer health care, as Sen. Bernie Sanders suggests they are, in proposing a plan that would have the government foot most medical bills.

He's right that support for the idea has grown and in some polls tops 50 percent. But polls suggest that the prevailing sentiment is ambivalence.

Saving money on health insurance holds lots of appeal. Seeing taxes rise to cover those costs may dull the appetite.

Sanders' plan, released Wednesday, would have the government finance coverage now paid for by a mix of employers, their workers, public plans and people in the individual insurance market. He's not given details of the likely cost or how, exactly, he'd pay for it.

A look at the independent Vermont senator's claims about the popularity of a government-financed system and how they compare with surveys of public opinion:

"You mean because the people in this country want to move toward a Medicare-for-all system, that is divisive? I think in a democracy, we should be doing what the American people want."  AP interview Tuesday, when asked about divisions in the Democratic Party over his idea.

"Guaranteeing health care as a right is important to the American people not just from a moral and financial perspective; it also happens to be what the majority of the American people want."  Opinion piece in The New York Times on Wednesday.

THE POLLING:

It takes a selective use of polling to make that case. Overall, public opinion research delivers decidedly mixed results.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reports a "modest increase" in support for single-payer coverage in recent years, with "substantial" opposition. Perhaps most notably, public opinion is "malleable," with support dropping when people are presented with arguments against it that are certain to emerge in the debate.

Kaiser's tracking poll in July found 53 percent in favor of having all Americans get their health insurance from the government; 43 percent were against that. Opposition climbed to 60 percent when people were asked to consider that such a plan would call for higher taxes for many. A slight majority also swung against a single-payer plan when respondents were told that former President Barack Obama's health care law would be replaced as a result.

Public opinion research also helps to explain why Sanders calls his plan "Medicare for all." Labels matter. People tend to react more favorably to the notion of expanding the popular Medicare program to cover everyone than to the idea of "single-payer" even if they amount to the same thing.

In other polling:

People were about evenly divided in an AP-NORC Center survey in January, 39 percent against having everyone get their health insurance from one government plan and 38 percent in favor. Support dropped substantially when the prospect of a large increase in federal spending was introduced.

Respondents favored a Medicare-for-all plan 51-38 in a Quinnipiac poll in August that did not raise the question of potential costs.

In his Times article, Sanders cited an Economist/YouGov poll in April that found a clear preference for expanding Medicare to provide health insurance to all  60-23. The survey did not address the cost or tax implications of taking that course. That survey was conducted using an opt-in online panel recruited with internet advertising, a methodology criticized by some because of concerns that it does not reach a random sample of Americans.

The Pew Research Center in June found 60 percent who believe the federal government is responsible for ensuring health care coverage for all Americans, with 39 percent disagreeing. That supports Sanders' contention that people want health care as a right. But ensuring coverage is not the same as paying for it. Support for a single-payer system registered at only 33 percent in that poll. Many of those who felt the government has a responsibility for making sure people have coverage instead supported a mix of public and private programs.
The winner of tender will supply the first 10 locomotives fully assembled. The remaining locomotives will be supplied in kit form for assembly at Indian Railways (IR) factories. The successful bidder will also be expected to transfer technology to IRs Chittaranjan Locomotive Works.

BHEL plans to partner with the successful bidder to manufacture the first 10 locomotives and then produce mechanical and electrical assemblies and components for the fleet. BHEL will provide support for after-sales services.

BHELs Jhansi plant can manufacture up to 75 electric locomotives per year and has supplied 360 units to IR. BHEL says it recently won an order to manufacture 4.47MW electric locomotives.

This tender follows the breakdown of talks last year with a consortium led by Kawasaki, Japan, to supply the locomotives as part of a Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) precondition for its loan for the construction of the Western DFC.

To receive global rail tenders, subscribe to IRJ Pro.
The European Commission (EC) approved the government-funded scheme in July after concluding the measures were proportionate, in accordance with EU state aid rules.

Operators will have until October 31 2020 to submit funding applications, although grants will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

According to EC guidelines, the funding scheme will cover a maximum of 50% of the eligible cost of conversion.

A grant of up to DKr 1.2m will be allocated to equip the operators first locomotive (first-in-class installation), and up to DKr 500,000 for each subsequent unit. The scheme covers both ETCS equipment and the purchase of specific transmission modules (STMs) for communication with the legacy signalling system.
TIGER, Calif. HSR absent from House spending bill Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman , Editor, Railway Track & Structures; and Engineering Editor, Railway Age









Amtrak and New York's Gateway project got a prospective funding boost as the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $1.2-trillion omnibus package to provide all discretionary funding for the federal government for the 2018 fiscal year.

But TIGER grants and California high speed rail were conspicuously absent from the Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act (H.R.3354), a collection of 12 appropriations bills including the Transportation/Housing and Urban Development Appropriations (THUD) bill and passed the House by a vote of 211-198.

The House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ-11) issued a statement that said, The legislation approved by the House today funds important domestic and international programs[T]hese investments are made responsibly. In each of the bills within this package, we have found savings, gotten rid of waste, fraud and duplication and increased oversight to ensure that no taxpayer dollar is misspent.

The THUD bill includes $17.8 billion in discretionary appropriations for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration is funded at $2.2 billion and the Federal Transit Administration is provided $11.75 billion. The bill also funds Amtrak with $1.4 billion, which includes $328 million for Northeast Corridor grants and $1.1 billion to support the national network. Rail safety and research programs are funded at $258.3 million, which will fund inspectors and training, plus maintenance and safety investments to the physical rail infrastructure.

There are no funds for the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program and prohibits federal funding of the California high-speed rail project.

The Gateway projects estimated $900 million was preserved in the omnibus bill. While not specifically labeled for the project in order to avoid violating earmark rules, the THUD language targets an estimated $900 million for the Gateway project. The funding is comprised of rail state of good repair grants, transit funds and Amtrak Northeast Corridor funds.

Rep. Frelinghuysen explained the Gateway funding in July, The Gateway project, especially the proposed new Hudson River Tunnel, serves both public transportation (New Jersey Transit) and intercity passenger rail (Amtrak).

The passage of the omnibus bill in the House is only a step in the total process. The Senate still needs to address its version of an omnibus package and then the two versions will need to be reconciled before moving on to the White House.

We still have more work to do. Funding these important federal responsibilities and keeping the government open is our constitutional duty to the people we serve, and I look forward to the final completion of all these critical bills, said Rep. Frelinghuysen.
Welcome to Railway Gazette. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of these cookies. You can learn more about the cookies we use here.

OK
Russian penitentiary deputy chief appeals detention in embezzlement case

MOSCOW, September 18 (RAPSI, Lyudmila Klenko) - Deputy chief of the Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) Oleg Korshunov charged with large scale embezzlement has filed an appeal against his detention, RAPSI learnt in the Basmanny District Court of Moscow on Monday.

Earlier, Korshunov, who pleaded not guilty, was detained until November 13.

According to investigation, the accused organized conclusion of two government contracts on delivery of fuels and lubricants and food products at an overvalued price between 2015 and 2016. Actions of Korshunov and his accomplices allegedly caused a 160-million-ruble damage (about $3 million) to the FSIN.

Korshunov was appointed to the post of FSIN deputy head in March 2014. He has been bestowed the rank of Full State Counsellor 2nd Class of the Russian Federation.
Convicted Pokemon Go player appeals his sentence

MOSCOW, September 18 (RAPSI, Lyudmila Klenko) - Videoblogger Ruslan Sokolovsky, who had received a suspended term for playing Pokemon Go in a church, filed an appeal with the Sverdlovsk Region Court against the sentence, his lawyer Alexey Bushmakov told RAPSI on Monday.

On May 22, Sokolovsky was found guilty of inciting hatred, violation of religious rights and illegal possession of special technical means intended for obtaining secret information. On July 7, a court in Yekaterinburg on Friday reduced the young mans suspended sentence from 3.5 to 2 years and 3 months.

In mid-July, he was added to the list of active terrorists and extremists, according to the Federal Financial Monitoring Service.

The blogger insisted on innocence and claimed that said technical means, photo- and video-camera, mounted in the housing of a ballpoint pen, belonged to one Sergey Lazarev who lives in Ukraine. Russian authorities were not able to locate and interrogate Lazarev, Bushmakov told RAPSI earlier.

According to investigators, from May 2013 to September 2016, the defendant produced nine video files and placed them on the YouTube. These videos, according to a forensic examination, contain signs of incitement of hatred or hostility, humiliation of human dignity and a group of persons on the grounds of nationality, religion, as well as against members of a particular social group. Placement of these videos on the Internet was qualified by experts as public actions, expressing clear disrespect for society and committed to insult the religious feelings of believers.

In addition, Sokolovsky allegedly used unlawfully acquired special technical means. Investigators believe that he recorded videos through camera in the housing of a ballpoint pen. According to experts, the device corresponds to the category of special technical means intended for secret reception and registration of visual and acoustic information.

The case against Sokolovsky was launched after he had published video on Youtube channel, in which he played the mobile app of the popular Pokemon Go game in Orthodox Church-on-Blood in Yekaterinburg.

Pokemon Go, a videogame with elements of augmented reality for mobile devices, became incredibly popular all over the world.
A recent series of militant attacks that forced the closure of three of Libyas key oil fields represents the latest blow to the North African nations efforts to revive its energy sector while reigning in the chronic instability that has plagued the country since its 2011 revolution.

Over the course of two weeks in late August, the Rayayina Patrols Brigade (RPG) targeted oil fields and other facilities along a key pipeline corridor in western Libya, disrupting production at the Hamada el Hamra, El-Feel, and El Sharara oil fields by an estimated 360,000 bpd.

Though all three fields are scheduled to resume production this week following a negotiated settlement, the attacks underscore the challenges the Tripoli-based and internationally recognized Government of National Accord continues to face as it attempts to revamp production and stabilize the country amidst a fraught security environment.

Prior to the 2011 fall of former Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi, oil production reached highs of around 1.6 million bpd and accounted for as much as 98 percent of government revenue. During the civil war following Gadhafis ouster, oil production plummeted, falling below 300,000 bpd at several points, and has since struggled to recover. With few other alternatives for revenue, a thriving energy sector represents both a form of legitimacy for the GNA while also ultimately underwriting any development programs aimed at constructing durable peace and stability.

Only in the last year has Libyas oil production regained some momentum, giving hope that the energy sector might be back on track. Production reached 575,000 bpd in November 2016 and surpassed 1 million bpd in July for the first time in four years. This progress informed projections made by the Libyan National Oil Company (NOC) in late June that Libyan production would surpass 1.2 million bpd by the end of 2017, followed by ambitious plans to surpass 1.5 million bpd by the end of 2018 and 2.2 million bpd by 2023. Such a surge even led some analysts to consider whether the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries 2016 commitment to cut production could be stymied by a resurgent Libya, which was exempt from the agreement.

Yet as these attacks demonstrate, sustained medium-to-long-term oil production increases depend on local security and stability, a challenge given Libyas divisive political climate. While Libyas oil wealth represents the largest reserves in Africa, its infrastructure is dispersed across vast swaths of desert, crossing numerous local and tribal communities. Oil produced from the El Sharara and El Feel fields must traverse 400 miles across sparsely governed territory to reach the Zawiya Refinery and Mellitah Energy Complex, while oil produced at the Hamada el Hamra field is only 200 miles closer.

The absence of a strong central government and the fractious political landscape compounds these vulnerabilities. Energy infrastructure is an easy target in areas where the GNAs influence is minimal, and local political groups or militia can seize or damage oil terminals for political or financial leverage.

Prior to December 2016, El Sharara (Libyas largest oil field with a production potential of 330,000 bpd) was shut down for two years due to disputes between a local division of the Petroleum Facilities Guards (PFG), a national force formed to guard Libyas oil facilities, and the NOC. Since then, protests have twicein April near the Rayanya juncture of the El Sharara and El Feel pipelines and in early August in Zawiyatemporarily disrupted output. The resumption of production was enabled by a series of settlements brokered by NOC head Mustafa Sanallah with local communities and power brokers. However, since initial reports suggested the August attacks were in retaliation for poor economic conditions in Zintan, a city along the pipeline where protests have disrupted production in the past, the sustainability of agreements brokered by the NOC is unclear.

These challenges are endemic throughout Libya. The NOC must regularly negotiate among Libyas various political actors, militias, and tribal groups as territorial control fluctuates and different groups seek to wield force as political leverage.

In addition to oil fields, local militant groups have also attacked desert pipelines or downstream chokepoints. Such an incident occurred in June when an unidentified individual attempted a car bombing near the entrance to the Es Sider terminal west of Sirte.

Internal factionalism also exists within the PFG, the national body tasked with protecting oil infrastructure, which last year blockaded terminals at the northern oil port of Ras Lanuf to protest unpaid wages. The RPG claimed to be part of the PFG in its attacks in August, an association that dates back to the closure of the Sharara field prior to December 2016. Yet in a statement following the attacks, Sanallah and the PFG declared the RPG to be gangsters and a rogue militia.

Transnational threats also abound. Illicit oil trade, enabled by the regions weak political environment, hampers production while providing a source of revenue to local militias. In late August, Libyan naval forces seized a Filipino vessel suspected of smuggling crude near Abu Kammash on the Libyan-Tunisian border. Additionally, the continued presence of Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) fighters in Libya and North Africa, even after the group was ousted from Sirte last year, is an additional security risk.

In light of these challenges, it seems clear that the unstable security environment in Libya will continue to undermine a return to pre-2011 oil production levels. Not only is this bad news for Libya in the current political context, it also creates significant uncertainty about the future of oil production.

International oil companies Total, Eni, Repsol, Statoil, and OMV each have contracts related to the El Sharara and El Feel fields. However, repeated decisions by the NOC to declare force majeurebreaking a contract due to forces beyond one of the parties controlon supplies from these fields undermines confidence in existing projects and deters new investment as stakeholders question the governments ability to provide security guarantees and the rule of law. Meanwhile, the NOCs preoccupation with bringing stalled projects back online and preventing existing projects from going offline leaves it mired in tricky local politics and hamstrings its capacity to improve the overall investment climate and develop new projects.

Ultimately, the relationship between Libyan stability and energy development remains circular and self-fulfilling. Economic growth and stability hinges on the recovery of oil productionyet long-term oil production ultimately depends on a stable security environment. Despite a summit in Paris in July, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, designed to facilitate dialogue between Libyas key rivals, a political solution appears unlikely in the short term. Absent a successful negotiated settlement in Libya, the countrys prolonged security challenges will only continue to undermine a lasting recovery in oil production.
This article first appeared in Les Echos.

Emmanuel Macron's use of faineant, the French word for "slacker," caused an uproar in France. But the real "slackers" are the commentators who scatter hashtags to the wind of social media and avoid any in-depth debate longer than 140 characters. The only controversy we should be focusing on is the substance of President Macron's speech in Athens, which marked a major break from France's perception of European construction.

His assessment is that the people's lack of trust in the European Union reflects a sovereignty crisis. We are living with the myth that decisions made in Brussels are the result of compromises made at the European Council, where each country supposedly continues to exert its prerogatives in an independent and reversible way.

This is an argument put forward by opponents of Brexit, like the think tank Chatham House, before the June 2015 referendum. Essentially, they said, the EU is just a sophisticated multilateral agreement that does not question the democratic process of its member states. It is no wonder that in a country so attached to its parliamentary tradition as the United Kingdom, voters did not fall for this fallacious argument.

With its powerful Court of Justice, capable of slapping fines on governments and overstepping their decisions through the qualified majority rule, the EU narrows the field of national sovereignty. The competition policy in fact condemns any economic voluntarism.

More than half of our national legislation comes from Brussels. Political leaders who pretend not to see the democratic problem this poses and continue to nurture the illusion of national independence are dooming Europe to an eventual populist implosion. In this context, it is only natural for extremist parties to demand the return of national sovereignty.

But then comes Macron offering the opposite and equally radical solution: the creation, over the next 10 years, of a European sovereignty. "Real sovereignty," he insisted, "can only be built in and by Europe." It is, as far as I know, the first time a head of state uses such language. It means no more and no less the accelerated formation of a European demos and granting it real political power, which is the only way to tackle issues such as immigration, sustainable development, or financial regulation. Hence Macron's proposal to form transnational lists in European elections, in an effort to fuel a pan-European political debate.

Even though Macron denies it, logically, European sovereignty would make our nation-states obsolete, little by little. This is actually the vision of the famous German philosopher Jurgen Habermas. Europe could, therefore, take on the form of a post-national state, separating cultural identity (confined to the private sphere) from legislative and civic commitment in an enlarged public sphere.

There is no contradiction between feeling French (or Catalan, or Berliner) and becoming a European citizen, impregnated with what Habermas calls "constitutional patriotism." It probably isn't a coincidence that the German philosopher, who went from the Frankfurt School to liberalism, was such a staunch supporter of Macron during the presidential campaign.

There is, however, a third way for those of us who worry about the emergence of a European Leviathan, with its own budget and appetite for norms and regulations. You could argue that, in a networked world, the very idea of democratic sovereignty has had its day.

In his speech, Macron quoted the famous early 19th-century European liberal Benjamin Constant. But more specifically, Constant called to overcome the "Liberty of the Ancients," which is based on belonging to a homogeneous people and not on collective deliberation. He favored a "Liberty of the Moderns," in which an individual with indisputable rights would be able to lead his life and go about his business without worrying about politics. We should, therefore, be imagining a European (or global) governance that is decentralized and participative, unconstrained by elections and representation. Macron announced the organization of "democratic conventions" open to everyone across Europe. Count me in!
Property details:

Up for auction is the TOTAL PURCHASE PRICE, with no reserve, of 0.22 acres, 9583.2 square feet, of forest land in Lake County, Oregon. The property is north of Dead Horse Lake in Fremont National Forest. According to google maps, the nearest town is Paisley, OR. The town is approximately 30 miles or about an hour drive from Paisley. The property does have trees and would be a great place for a cabin or camping.Please review the pictures as they have important information regarding the land. This...

Price: $ 1,375 Seller State of Residence: Wyoming State/Province: Oregon Zoning: F-1 Type: Recreational, Acreage Property Address: Lot 9066 RD 477 City: Paisley, Fremont National Forest Zip/Postal Code: 97676 Location: 828**, Sheridan, Wyoming

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby 97676
Property details:

LAND FOR SALE IN LUCERNE, CALIFORNIA! Would you like to own property in Lake County California? Does residential land in Lucerne, CA interest you? Here is your opportunity to purchase a well positioned parcel for a fraction of market value. Known as the "Bass Capital of the West." Clear Lake supports large populations of bass, crappie, bluegill, carp and catfish. The lot itself measures approximately 7,565 square feet and has legal access along Carfax Rd. Please feel free to drive out and visit ...

Price: $ 370 Seller State of Residence: Wisconsin State/Province: California Zip/Postal Code: 95458 City: Lucerne Zoning: Residential Type: Homesite, Lot Property Address: 6200 Carfax Rd. Location: 532**, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby 6200 Carfax Rd.
Property details:

Cataract Mining District Department of Land Transfer Info Equipment Feedback Other Claims for Sale Contact Us Add To Favorites SANTA ANITA MINE 20.66 Acre Unpatented Lode Mining Claim on Federal Land in the Cataract Mining District of Montana There are two mines located here, with one being an adit, and the other being a shaft. The adit of the SANTA ANITA mine, is partially blocked, but it wouldnt take much to clean it up a bit, and move some of the natural erosion, so you can have easier acc...

Price: $ 760 Seller State of Residence: california Property Address: Toston, MT 59643 Type: Unpatented Mining Claims Zoning: Minerals Zip/Postal Code: 59643 State/Province: Montana City: Toston Location: 596**, Toston, Montana

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby Toston
,



We're sorry, this article is not currently available
Here are snapshots of the top concerts from the second day of Music Midtown. Featuring some of most well-known artists in the music industry, there were pop, folk, hip-pop and indie music acts to entertain the crowd on the last day of the annual music festival.
The Infosys saga shows how efforts to remote-control a company by its powerful promoter, even with good intentions, might hurt the entity, says Asish K Bhattacharyya.

The resignation of Vishal Sikka as chief executive officer (CEO) of information technology giant Infosys will definitely slow down the process of much-needed transformation, and will hurt investors interest.

The Infosys saga shows how efforts to remote-control a company by its powerful promoter, even with good intentions, might hurt the entity.

In early 2017, an anonymous whistle-blower alleged lapses in governance at the company.

The most serious allegations were impropriety in acquisition of an Israeli company (Panaya) in 2015 and payment of hush money, in the form of high severance pay, to then chief financial officer (CFO) Rajiv Bansal, who was not in favour of the deal.

Narayana Murthy, the most eminent co-founder of the company, was unhappy about some decisions of the board, such as high severance pay to the outgoing CFO, high salaries to Sikka and Pravin Rao (COO), and high spending by Sikka.

The board appointed globally reputed law firm Gibson Dunn to investigate the allegation. The firm did not find evidence of wrongdoing.

The board published the summary of the investigation report. It also hired reputed law firm Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas to review corporate governance practices.

On severance pay to Bansal, in February 2017 the board publicly admitted that there was an error of judgement, it had learned from the incident and there would be no more Rajiv Bansals.

Murthy was not happy. He used the media to continuously attack the board for allegedly sliding corporate governance standards.

He said the board was dysfunctional and had failed to provide appropriate checks and balances. Some of his supporters believe Sikka was driving the board.

Murthy and his supporters might have inferred those from the fact that Sikka enjoyed a free hand and the boards support in his initiatives, and that he was not stopped from taking decisions that were against some of the past good practices.

Although independent investigation found no impropriety, it is likely Murthy believes the Panaya deal was approved without proper due-diligence and that led to the conclusion that the board was dysfunctional.

Highly successful leaders are driven by self-actualisation need.

Therefore, it is difficult to comprehend why a board constituted of highly successful business leaders and professionals would lack the commitment and motivation to lead the transformational journey of a highly respected company.

Cohesiveness is essential in strategy implementation. Therefore, implementation of a new strategy often requires change in organisational culture and structure.

Companies change ways of doing business to align these with new business models and changed contexts.

Good companies bring changes without compromising on core values, such as fairness to all stakeholders, integrity and transparency.

Every practice was considered good at some point in the life of a company should not be included in core values.

Such inclusion hinders desirable changes in ways of doing business.

For example, practicing of frugality should not be included in core values.

Murthy could be wrong in accusing the board that it undermined long established values and corporate governance standards only because the company deviated from some practices that were considered good in the past.

Murthy is genuinely concerned that corporate governance standards are sliding.

Perhaps he believes every practice that was considered good in the past should continue.

Another source of his concern is his faith in the principle of compassionate capitalism and his belief that high CEO salary is against those principles.

It also appears he believes the whistle-blowers allegations are true. It is possible his concerns were exacerbated by emotional attachment to Infosys. Murthy said in 2014 that Infosys was like his middle child.

The flashpoint of his attack on the board was his insistence on publishing the full investigation report on the whistle-blowers allegations.

The board declined to oblige Murthy. The new board is yet to take a decision.

If the new board publishes the report and wrongdoing is revealed, the board has to take responsibility for damaging the company and Murthys position will be vindicated.

On the other hand, if the report is not published or does not provide evidence of any wrongdoing, Murthy has to take the blame for damaging the company.

The promoter should either participate in directing the company by joining the board or keep himself/herself detached from the companys governance. Shareholder activism is desirable.

But, when a highly respected and powerful promoter speaks against the board or CEO publicly, the company tumbles into a crisis.







The writer is adjunct professor in the Institute of Management Technology (IMT) Ghaziabad; and Chairman of Riverside Management Academy; E-mail: asish.bhattacharyya@gmail.com
Is the SBI chairman leaving the bank in a stronger and better position than what it was? Abhijit Lele finds out.

State Bank of India (SBI) Chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya's four-year term, which will end on October 6, has been eventful. Her tenure also coincided with rising bad loans of the banking sector, and the subsequent fire-fighting that is going on the resolution front.

Besides that, she prepared the ground for the merger of its associate banks with itself which was completed earlier this year.

Bhattacharya was also focused on making the banking behemoth more relevant to the changing business environment, customer needs or employee expectations -- making the bank digitally savvy, cordial relations with the regulator and making the organisation employee-friendly, especially for women.

Her operational skills were also tested during the demonetisation period, as all banks, including SBI, had to manage the exchange and deposits of scrapped notes. However, the bank's margins and asset quality came under pressure as the demand for loans reduced significantly along with rising provisions for bad loans.

1. The merger

Though already the largest bank in the country, the merger of five associate banks and Bharatiya Mahila Bank with consolidated asset base of over Rs 33 lakh crore, has given the SBI more firepower and scale to compete on global arena.

The bank's merger with six other entities has taken it into the league of top 50 banks globally in terms of assets.

For Bhattacharya, who got a one-year extension last October, the merger was the key task during the past year, which she delivered, said a senior public sector banker.

The bank had done a lot of groundwork prior to the merger, especially in 2016-17 in terms of cleaning up the corporate loan book of associates, integration of information technology systems, and bringing senior management on the same page to ensure smooth transition.

The merger has resulted in strain on the bank's financials with a rise in slippages in the retail loan book and slow growth in home loans. But, these are one-off events, said an analyst with a domestic brokerage firm.

2. Relations with regulator and government

A former top SBI executive said the relationship of the head of the largest bank with the regulator Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is crucial.

Unlike her two predecessors, who had run-ins especially with the regulator, Bhattacharya developed good working relationship both with the RBI and the finance ministry.

The central bank takes her opinion and insights seriously, said an executive at the Indian Banks' Association.

3. Capital position

In June, the SBI raised equity capital of Rs 15,000 crore through a qualified institutional placement route, the first such fund-raising after the merger, at Rs 287.25 per share.

As a result, its capital adequacy ratio stood at 13.3 per cent at end of June 2017 for combined entity, compared with 13.1 per cent for the standalone bank in the March 2017 quarter.

4. Asset quality

Bhattacharya in her first two years brought down gross non-performing assets (NPAs) as a percentage of total advances from 5.6 per cent in September 2013 quarter to 4.2 per cent in the September 2015 quarter. However, after the central bank's asset quality review, applicable from December 2015 quarter, gross NPAs have gone up.

The June 2017 quarter showed the impact of poor asset quality in associate banks as gross NPAs touched 10 per cent.

While working to stabilise the asset quality of the bank, Bhattacharya was vocal about taking action against recalcitrant managements and promoters of defaulting companies. But, banks were hamstrung without legal recourse to kick existing managements out. The SBI was no exception to it.

With the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code giving creditors more rights, Bhattacharya has been instrumental in driving hard bargains in many NPA cases.

In an otherwise steady journey of improvement in asset quality, a merger induced bump up in gross bad loans has queered the pitch.

She was equally vocal about pointing to adverse effect of farm debt waivers on credit discipline. She did find strong support on her view on farm loan waivers from former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan when he was the central bank governor.

5. Financials

The bank's financials improved in Bhattacharya's two years with the net profit rising from Rs 2,375 crore in the September 2013 quarter to Rs 3.879 crore in the September 2015 quarter. However, after the RBI's asset quality review from the December 2015 quarter, the SBI's financials began deteriorating.

The SBI's net interest margins, which were in the range of 3-3.2 per cent fell to 2.8 per cent between June 2016 and March 2017, and fell further to 2.4 per cent in the June 2017 quarter after the merger with associate banks.

6. Digital banking

The leader in physical banking was lagging behind private sector banks in the digital space when Bhattacharya took over as chairman.

The bank's digital offerings both increased and improved as it quickly launched products from e-wallet SBI Buddy to digital branches, and mobile website and apps for all types of customers.

As a step to support the fintech ecosystem, the bank created a Rs 200-crore fund to invest in fintech start-ups. Many solutions and services are expected to emerge from this fund to give an edge to the bank for the future.

7. People focus

Bhattacharya's people skills are something even her competitors admire. For the merger, she had to bring employees on board, and convinced them patiently to accept it.

She let senior colleagues -- managing directors -- work independently, which is seen a major plus.

She has also been sensitive to employees' concerns and has addressed them effectively.

She allowed women employees to work from home if they were caregivers to an ailing parent or if a child had an important exam to take.
The DoT is wrongly asking subscribers to link their mobile numbers to Aadhaar in order to keep them active.

Under no situation can the ministry of communications establish that the two-judge bench's order will prevail over the five-judge Constitution Bench's order, says Gopal Krishna.

A recent newspaper report misrepresented an observation made by the Supreme Court in an order by a two-judge bench (external link) delivered on February 6.

The report appeared to be a part of the barrage of messages sent to mobile subscribers, asking them to mandatorily link their Aadhaar to their phone numbers to keep the latter active, as per the Government of India's directions.

However, while referring to the government order, the reporter failed to examine the consistency of the letter (external link) from the department of telecommunications with the law and an October 15, 2015 order (external link) by the Supreme Court's five-judge Constitution Bench.

The DoT issued the letter on March 23, 2017, with the subject 'Implementation of Hon'ble Supreme Court orders regarding 100% E-KYC based re-verification of all existing subscribers', wherein it partially refers to the observation made by the two-judge bench in the February order.

The observation of the two-judge bench which the DoT letter referred to is in para 5 of the order.

It reads: 'In view of the factual position brought to our notice during the course of hearing, we are satisfied that the prayers made in the writ petition have been substantially dealt with, and an effective process has been evolved to ensure identity verification, as well as, the addresses of all mobile phone subscribers for new subscribers.'

'In the near future, and more particularly, within one year from today, a similar verification will be completed, in the case of existing subscribers.'

After citing this part of the court's order, the letter would have us believe that 'this amounts to a direction which is to be completed within a time frame of one year'.

Having reached this inference, the DoT has sought Unique Identification/Aadhaar-based verification of new mobile subscribers and re-verification of all existing subscribers.

The fact is that the DoT has drawn a flawed inference with regard to whether or not the Supreme Court observation 'amounts to a direction' or not because under no situation can the ministry of communications establish that the two-judge bench's order will prevail over the five-judge Constitution Bench's order.

After the June 9, 2017 verdict (external link) of the Supreme Court bench, headed by Justice A K Sikri, on the 12-digit biometric Aadhaar, DoT's letter has become invalid on three grounds.

One, the letter is illegal as it is in violation of the five-judge bench order.

Two, the letter is inconsistent with the Aadhaar Act, 2016 (external link), and three, the Supreme Court's order of June 9, 2017 will prevail over the DoT letter dated March 23.

Notably, nowhere does the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 provide for and authorise 'seeding' of UID/Aadhaar numbers in databases.

The Act provides for only two uses:

1. Authentication, which means that biometric or demographic data can be sent to the Unique Identification Authority of India's Central Identities Data Repository to return a 'yes/no' reply to the question whether you are who you say you are; and,

2. eKYC, which does something they had said they would never do -- give the data on their database (except core biometric data -- although they have no means to stop any agency from collecting and keeping biometrics when it is given for authentication) to an authorised service agency.

It is germane to note that Section 8(2)(b) of the Act is categorical in stating that an agency requesting authentication 'ensure(s) that the identity information of an individual is only used for submission' to the CIDR of 12-digit biometric UID/Aadhaar numbers 'for authentication'.

It does not authorise anyone to hold onto the number.

As per the order of the five-judge bench of the Supreme Court dated October 15, 2015, Aadhaar cannot be made mandatory for the purposes of linking to mobile phones.

This has been reiterated by the court on June 9 and June 27, 2017 (external link).

The use of Aadhaar for linking to other databases, retention, storage or publishing is prohibited and is a punishable offence under the the Aadhaar Act 2016.

Apart from the foregoing, the following should be noted clearly:

1. Aadhaar cannot be made compulsory because of the orders of the Supreme Court.

2. The Aadhaar Act 2016 does not make it compulsory.

3. The CIDR of Aadhaar numbers is not a verified or audited database. Neither the UIDAI nor any other government authority certifies it as a proof of identity, address, resident status or even the existence of any person.

4. The linkage of Aadhaar to mobiles will encourage imposters to obtain SIMs.

5. In its counter-affidavit in the Supreme Court in the Lokniti Foundation v Union of India case, the Centre, through the then attorney general, stated that 'currently Aadhaar card or biometric authentication is not mandatory for obtaining a new telephone connection'.

The proper wording of the submission of the attorney general and the Supreme Court's order are important in light of the misreporting of the case. (The headline of the above mentioned news report, for instance, was 'SC asks Centre to link all mobile numbers to Aadhaar within one year'.)

In its petition, the Lokniti Foundation, had prayed that 'the Aadhar card or such other biometric identification may be made compulsory for verification of the mobile phone subscribers that can ensure 100 per cent verification of mobile phones', but pursuant to the attorney general's submission, the two-judge bench of the court decided not to purposefully violate the orders of a three-judge bench and the five-judge Constitution Bench, which assert that getting a biometric Aadhaar number is voluntary.

But the DoT chose to misinterpret the order.

6. It is germane to note that the August 11, 2015, order of a three-judge bench of Justices Chelameswar, S A Bobde and Nagappan observed, 'The Union of India shall give wide publicity in the electronic and print media including radio and television networks that it is not mandatory for a citizen to obtain an Aadhaar card; The production of an Aadhaar card will not be condition for obtaining any benefits otherwise due to a citizen'.

7. The order passed by the five-judge Constitution Bench in the 'UID/Aadhaar' matter, reads: 'We impress upon the Union of India that it shall strictly follow all the earlier orders passed by this court commencing from September 23, 2013. We will also make it clear that the Aadhaar card scheme is purely voluntary and it cannot be made mandatory till the matter is finally decided by this court one way or the other'.

8. This 'Aadhaar is voluntary' position has been repeated by the high courts of Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

9. In a significant case, a Punjab and Haryana high court bench, headed by then Chief Justice A K Sikri (currently a Supreme Court judge), heard a matter challenging a circular making Aadhaar mandatory.

The moment the court raised questions of laws, the circular making Aadhaar mandatory was withdrawn by the central government.

10. It must be noted that in keeping with court's order, the West Bengal assembly passed a unanimous resolution against Aadhaar number-related schemes in the public interest.

11. In a related case, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) vs Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the apex court passed an order dated March 24, 2014, which reads as follows:

'More so, no person shall be deprived of any service for want of Aadhaar number in case he/she is otherwise eligible/entitled.'

'All the authorities are directed to modify their forms/circulars/likes so as to not compulsorily require the Aadhaar number.'

This order in the case is a part of the 'all the earlier orders passed by this court' which is required to be followed 'strictly'.

It is quite evident that repeated orders issued by the Supreme Court till June 27, 2017, make it clear that Aadhaar remains voluntary.

Therefore, no one can be mandatorily asked to produce or link biometric Aadhaar for anything.

12. The then attorney general had admitted in an affidavit filed on behalf of the Centre that Aadhaar is not mandatory.

13. On June 9, 2017, the court observed that even the Aadhaar Act, 2016 does not make UID/Aadhaar mandatory. This was reiterated on June 27, 2017.

14. A three judge-bench headed by the then Chief Justice of India on January 5, 2017, expressed concern about the collection of biometric data by private and foreign agencies.

15. The UID/Aadhaar enrolment process continues to promise Indian residents that 'Aadhaar enrolment is free and voluntary'.

It must be noted that the existing legal provisions as per the Supreme Court's order and the Aadhaar Act, 2016 do not provide for seeding of Aadhaar with any scheme or project.

16. The views of the National Human Rights Commission reveal that the biometric authentication scheme has a number of dangerous ramifications.

The National Human Rights Commission's view on the 'need for protection of information', 'the possibility of tampering with stored biometric information' and 'disclosure of information in the interest of national security' has been ignored.

It is evident that following the attorney general's submission in the Supreme Court recorded in the February 6, 2017, order stating that UID/Aadhaar is not mandatory for telephone connections and keeping the orders of several high courts and apex court in mind, there is a logical legal obligation for the government and non-governmental agencies who are implementing UID/Aadhaar-related schemes and systems to revise their orders and circulars to comply with the court's order in letter and spirit.

In the aftermath of the verdict of the nine-judge Constitution Bench declaring the Right to Privacy as a Fundamental Right, it is high time editors chastened their reporters to refrain from irresponsible and untruthful reporting.

Photograph: Mansi Thapliyal/Reuters
'When Irshad Khan approaches the Supreme Court, he will undoubtedly have the best and most committed of lawyers to represent him.'

His case will be reported on the front pages.'

Neither the BJP government in Rajasthan nor at the Centre can stop this,' says Jyoti Punwani.

A dying man names those who assaulted him. But the police gives them a clean chit, relying on statements of their associates who claim the latter were with them at the time of the assault.

The police completely ignores other eye-witnesses who were with the dying man when he was assaulted.

Rajasthan dairy farmer Pehlu Khan's lynching was caught on camera and relayed on prime time on all news television channels less than six months ago. It remained in the news for quite some time.

One would have expected that the media heat would have forced the police to proceed professionally in the case.

But the media scrutiny didn't last too long, and obviously, meant little to the police.

First, they declared those named by the dead man absconding.

Then, they exonerated them without bothering to verify their findings.

Were the alleged assailants really with others, far away from the crime scene in Alwar? This could have been verified by other eye-witnesses.

Irshad and Arif, Pehlu Khan's sons, were also attacked with their father. Irshad has said he heard the same names being called that his father gave the police. But he wasn't asked.

What does one make of the Rajasthan cops' conduct?

It might make more sense if compared to another case far away both in time and place, but one where the police conducted an investigation in exactly the same fashion.

Here the accused was one of their own -- a policeman. His crime? Firing on unarmed innocents.

The person who accused him was no less than a sitting judge of the Bombay high court. And the team investigating the offence was a hand-picked one.

Sub Inspector Nikhil Kapse was exonerated by the Special Task Force set up by the Maharashtra government under Supreme Court directions. Its task was to follow up on the Srikrishna Commission Report of Inquiry into the 1992-1993 Bombay riots.

Before indicting Kapse, Justice B N Srikrishna had heard all concerned.

The policemen who were with Kapse when he stormed into the Hari Masjid at Wadala on January 10, 1993, the senior police inspector of his police station who kept a record of movements of his force, and Kapse's superior, then deputy commissioner of police K L Bishnoi, had all testified before the commission.

So had those inside the Hari Masjid who faced Kapse's bullets, and those around the masjid.

All these deponents had been cross-examined at length by the battery of lawyers who represented different parties in front of the commission: The police, the government, the victims, the Shiv Sena, the Communist Party of India.

Additionally, Kapse had been served with a notice to defend himself before the commission, which he had ignored.

Only after having recorded and examined all these testimonies, which included documents from the police and hospitals, did Justice Srikrishna indict Kapse for 'brutal and inhuman behaviour as well as unjustified firing which killed six.' The high court judge recommended that strict action be taken against him.

All these testimonies and documents were available to the STF. But despite the seriousness of the commission's charge against Kapse, the STF chose to conduct only a departmental enquiry against the sub inspector and recorded only the statements of his colleagues.

The STF refused to meet Kapse's victims despite the latter urging it to do so.

The STF's clean chit to Kapse was accepted by Maharashtra's then Congress-Nationalist Congress Party government, which had quite early on, showed its reluctance to take any action against the 31 policemen indicted by Justice Srikrishna.

It was only when one of Kapse's victims, Farooq Mapkar, approached the Bombay high court, that the STF's one-sided investigation was questioned. Its counsel could not explain his client's conduct to the bench.

Pehlu Khan's son has declared he will challenge the Alwar policemen's investigation in court. It would be good to hear the judges question the Alwar police's lawyer.

The judges hearing Farooq Mapkar's plea tore into the STF's conduct. Its one-sided investigation was one reason that the judges agreed to Mapkar's request to hand over the Hari Masjid case to a reluctant CBI.

This was a 'case that affects the very soul of India,' the judges said.

However, going by what happened with Kapse, one hopes that Pehlu Khan's case does not go to the CBI.

Left with no choice, the CBI charged Kapse with murder in February 2009. But after that, it showed no urgency in investigating a case that was already 16 years old. In this, it was helped by the Maharashtra government.

To save a sub inspector who had been indicted by a judge for shooting at unarmed namazis, the Congress-NCP government rushed to the Supreme Court against the high court order. But describing the Hari Masjid case as an 'extraordinary' one, the apex court refused to intervene.

More than three years after it took over what it had dismissed as a 'simple' case not worthy of its skills, the CBI exonerated Kapse and filed a closure report.

Unlike the STF, the CBI did speak to Kapse's victims who stuck to the testimony they had given to the Srikrishna commission, and held Kapse responsible for firing without provocation.

But in its closure report, the CBI stated that it did not believe these testimonies. Kapse had arrested these namazis after the firing, and charged them with attempt to murder and rioting.

Hence, the CBI said their accounts could not be relied upon, as they could not be deemed neutral.

The CBI chose to ignore two related facts:

1. The Srikrishna Commission had described Kapse's version that the namazis had been rioting as 'wholly unbelievable, fabricated to support the unjustified firing'.

2. A sessions court had honourably acquitted the victims after Kapse and the investigating officer of the case had failed to substantiate the charges against them in court.

To give the CBI its due, it also spoke to two independent witnesses. One of them contradicted the victims' story; the other supported it.

The CBI chose to believe the former and ignore the latter -- giving no reasons for doing so.

The CBI filed its closure report in December 2011. Farooq Mapkar is still struggling to challenge it.

Does this fate await Pehlu Khan's son? Divided by time and space, there is still one crucial common factor between Pehlu Khan's case and the Hari Masjid case.

In both, the victims are ordinary Muslims and the accused, Hindus backed by the State.

Rajasthan's home minister had downplayed Pehlu Khan's lynching and blamed Khan and his sons for illegally taking cows for slaughter.

Pehlu Khan's sons face criminal charges just as the victims of the Hari Masjid firing did.

But there is also one crucial difference between the two cases.

Farooq Mapkar has been fighting alone and unnoticed. Pehlu Khan's family will not be left to fend for itself.

Former IAS officer Harsh Mander last week sat in dharna at the spot where Pehlu Khan was lynched. The police were reluctant, but finally had to permit his peaceful protest.

When Irshad Khan approaches the Supreme Court, he will undoubtedly have the best and most committed of lawyers to represent him. His case will be reported on the front pages.

Neither the Bharatiya Janata Party government in Rajasthan nor at the Centre can stop this.

Ironically, it was the 'secular' Congress-NCP government in Maharashtra that protected Sub Inspector Nikhil Kapse and thwarted Farooq Mapkar's attempts to get justice.

In the Hari Masjid case, the Bombay high court had asked the CBI: 'Despite all that has happened, all these years the State apparatus has been saying nothing wrong has been done! Don't you feel this matter should be investigated, to restore the confidence of people in the rule of law?'

Alas! That confidence was eroded even further by the CBI's closure of the case.

That cannot be allowed to happen with Pehlu Khan's lynching.

IMAGE: Pehlu Khan being lynched by a mob in Alwar, Rajasthan.
'The number of deaths attributable to warming is likely to rise in the future.'

IMAGE: Suraj Govind, 9, the son of a farmer who committed suicide in Maharashtra, at a protest organised by farmers' organizations demanding complete debt waiver and good rates for their crops in New Delhi in July.

The cap reads: 'My father has committed suicide.'

Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found that climate change had caused more than 59,000 farmer suicides in India over the last 30 years.

They also warned that suicide rate across the country would increase substantially as global temperatures rise.

Tamma Carleton, left, one of the researchers, is a PhD student in agricultural & resource rconomics at UC Berkeley specialising in problems at the intersection of environment and development.

Her doctoral research 'seeks to improve quantitative understanding of how global environmental change influences and is shaped by economic development'.

Earlier, as a Rhodes Scholar, she did her masters at the university of Oxford in environmental change & management and economics for development.

At Oxford, she was awarded the George Webb Medley prize for best performance in development economics.

She was also a co-ordinator of the Oxford Food Security Forum.

Carleton is currently also an Environmental Protection Agency STAR Fellow.

Her current projects include studies on agricultural subsidies and global water use, crop diversity and farmer welfare in India during the Green Revolution, climate and suicide in modern India, and opium poppy, violence and drought in Afghanistan.

In this email interview with Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier, Carleton explains how climate change causes havoc in the lives of Indian farmers.

From your research on agriculture and resource economics, how much do you think global environmental changes influence and affect the economic development of a country and its farmers?

There is mounting evidence of the substantial role that the climate plays in determining many social and economic outcomes.

In a recent paper of mine, co-authored with Solomon Hsiang, I review a rapidly growing research literature on the social and economic impacts of climate.

We show that temperature, in particular, exerts a remarkable influence over human systems at many scales: heat increases mortality rates, has lasting effects on foetuses and infants, and incites aggression and violence, while also lowering worker productivity, damaging crops, stressing energy systems and triggering migration.

Tropical cyclones also cause mortality, damage assets, and reduce economic output for long periods, while precipitation extremes harm economies and populations predominately in agriculturally dependent settings.

These effects are often quantitatively substantial.

For example, in this paper we calculate that temperature currently lowers the United States' maize yields by 48 per cent, that warming trends since 1980 have elevated conflict risk in Africa by 11 per cent, and that future warming may slow global economic growth rates by 0.28 percentage points per year.

These damages are not limited to a future under climate change, as even today many consequences of the climate are distressing.

For example, we calculate that current temperature climatologies slow the global economic growth rate by about 0.25 percentage points per year, comparable to the additional slowing of 0.28 percentage points per year projected from future warming.

You have done a study on the way climate change affects the livelihood of Indian farmers, leading them to commit suicide.

You wrote that global warming over the last 30 years is responsible for 59,300 suicides in India, which is a 6.8 per cent of the total upward trend.

Were you shocked by the statistics and the connection between climate change, crops failure and farmer suicides?

Each life claimed by suicide is devastating.

It was both shocking and heartbreaking to see that thousands of people face such bleak conditions that they are driven to harm themselves.

The impacts of the climate on suicide that I uncovered increased my own sense of urgency around the global challenge of climate change, making it clear that this is a problem we face today, not an issue we can afford to defer to future years.

With respect to the 6.8 per cent value, this is the share of total suicides that are attributable to warming. I see this as a significant number for two reasons.

First, climate change has just begun to unfold, and the warming experienced since 1980 is far less than what is projected to occur in the coming decades.

Therefore, the number of deaths attributable to warming is likely to rise in the future.

Second, because the population of India is so large and the suicide rate relatively high, contributing 6.8 per cent to the total upward trend means that climate change has caused many thousands of lives.

The finding that over 59,000 suicides are attributable to warming places exceptional urgency on climate mitigation and adaptation policy.

While I was deeply saddened to uncover the magnitude of the effect of climate on suicides in India, I was encouraged to find that this link appears to occur through damages to crops. Because these deaths appear economic in nature, there is a clear role for policy solutions, which can step in to support households in years of crop-damaging climate events.

WATCH: How Tamil Nadu farmers tried to get the Centre's attention.

Video: ANI

Do you think this is confined only to India, considering climate change is affecting the entire world?

Because farming in India is incredibly stressful and risky, it's possible that these households are more susceptible to the suicidal effects of the climate.

Indeed, many writers and policymakers have hypothesised that adverse climate events, which damage crops, are pushing households into economic destitution, and that some individuals are coping by committing suicide.

In this study, I use data and careful statistics to test this hypothesis.

The findings of this study are most applicable to India, as the analysis does not contain data from any other countries. However, the impacts of climate change on suicide that I uncover are potentially relevant to other parts of the world.

In particular, it is possible that a similar link between climatic conditions that damage crops and suicide rates may exist in locations where populations are heavily dependent on agricultural income, and where social safety nets to insure against these severe income shocks are minimal.

Many other developing countries are similar to India in these dimensions, as agriculture is the primary occupation for many households, while crop insurance is scarcely available and rural credit markets function poorly.

I hope that future research using data from other regions may be able to test the generalisability of the findings I have uncovered in India.

While it is likely that the key findings from this study are most directly applicable to other developing country contexts, there does exist some evidence (external link) that similar links between crop-damaging climate events and suicide operate in Australia, suggesting that this phenomenon is not limited to lower income countries.

Is climate change the only reason why crops are failing in India?

Climate change is absolutely not the only reason crops get damaged or suicides occur in India.

In my approach, I isolate the role of climate in determining suicides and crop yields from all other possible contributing factors by following the same location within India as it experiences a different climate at different points in time.

So, we can think about observing an agricultural community during a hot growing season, in which temperatures get to levels that damage crops.

Then, we observe that same community in a year where growing season temperatures are cooler, remaining at levels optimal for crop growth.

We can compare the suicide rate and crop yields in this location in the year with a hot growing season to the suicide rate and yields during the year with a cooler growing season.

After controlling for other regional trends, this allows me to isolate the role of the climate from all other drivers.

It's important to note that this is not a deterministic relationship between temperature and suicide, or between temperature and crop yields.

You can think about this relationship like the rise in car accidents on rainy days.

There are many possible factors causing any individual car accident. However, we can measure the elevated risk of an accident caused by a rainy day, on top of these other factors like road quality or driver error, by comparing total car accident rates on different days.

While the rain increases the risk of accidents in general, any individual car accident is still dependent on the situation and the choices made by the driver.

Similar to measuring the elevated risk of a car accident on rainy days, I quantify the elevated risk of suicide during years of abnormally hot growing season temperatures.

I then calculate the impact of warming trends in growing season temperature by comparing the estimated suicide rate in a world in which the climate warmed over the last 30 years, as we've observed in the data record since 1980, to the estimated suicide rate in a world in which those upward warming trends do not occur.

I compute the difference in suicide rates between these two scenarios in each year, and finally I determine the total suicides due to climate change by adding up the excess deaths across all years since 1980.

We can again think about this as similar to the elevated risk of car accidents on rainy days.

Once we have measured the relationship between a rainy day and the elevated risk of accidents, we can think about counting the excess accidents in a given location over time, as a location gets rainier and rainier.

After some set of years with more and more rainy days, we can add up all the additional accidents that are due to the upward trend in rainy days.

Professor M S Swaminathan, the man behind India's Green Revolution 50 years ago says that farmers in India face two major challenges: Wcological and economical.

As the cost of production is high, they do not get the expected returns from farming.

Do you agree?

Given the limited availability of data, this study cannot directly speak to particular policy solutions that are actively being debated in India.

For example, I cannot trace changes in the climate to individuals who incur debt, and show evidence that debt-relief programmes or access to low-interest loans could mitigate rising suicide rates.

I also cannot identify whether a suicide victim had access to crop insurance or not, and whether that insurance made suicide a less likely outcome in light of a warming climate.

Therefore, while my findings are suggestive that such policies may be fruitful, it is left to future research to focus on specific policy solutions to the tragic deaths we see as a result of climate change.

In particular, access to data on farmer debt burdens and farmer access to different forms of crop insurance would greatly improve our ability as researchers to draw conclusions about the efficacy of specific policy.

Since 50 per cent of India's population depend solely on the monsoon for farming, they face disaster if one monsoon fails.

Do you think India has to use new technologies and change farming techniques to improve agricultural produce?

In my study, I find that the effect of temperature on suicide appears to materialize through crop damages.

This result provides evidence consistent with policies that seek to reduce suicides by weakening the link between a risky climate and agricultural incomes.

This analysis does not have the data required to make specific policy recommendations regarding suicide prevention in India, nor policy solutions to improve farming techniques.

However, the finding that crop losses appear to be the key culprit linking the climate to suicide suggests that policies like crop insurance, which protect farm incomes from the vagaries of the climate, could be successful in reducing suicides.

Access to low-interest loans through well-functioning rural credit markets may also help limit the damage caused by warming temperatures, as farmers can access quality seed without incurring debt burdens that become insurmountable.

Other possible adaptive responses could include farm-based solutions to protect yields against warming temperatures, such as crop switching to increase heat tolerance, or investment in irrigation technologies to combat rainfall variability.

WATCH: The tragedy of an MP farmer and his teenage daughters.

Video: ANI

Various states in India have tried to tackle farmer suicides through farm loan waivers as debts are the main reason behind the suicides.

But many experts are of the opinion that loan waiver is not the answer.

As climate change is not within the control of any government, do you think initiatives like loan waivers, crop insurance, soil cards etc are the solutions to tackle agricultural failure and farmer suicides?

This analysis does not have the data required to make specific policy recommendations regarding suicide prevention in India, nor policy solutions to improve farming techniques.

However, the finding that crop losses appear to be the key culprit linking the climate to suicide suggests that policies like crop insurance, which protect farm incomes from the vagaries of the climate, could be successful in reducing suicides.

Access to low-interest loans through well-functioning rural credit markets may also help limit the damage caused by warming temperatures, as farmers can access quality seed without incurring debt burdens that become insurmountable.

Other possible adaptive responses could include farm-based solutions to protect yields against warming temperatures, such as crop switching to increase heat tolerance, or investment in irrigation technologies to combat rainfall variability.

However, the data in my analysis are not sufficient to assess any particular adaptive strategy or any individual policy proposal.

I hope that future research will help to fill this important gap in our understanding of how we can work to slow the tragic rise in suicide in India.

From your study, do you foresee a bleak future for Indian agriculture and farmers because global warming is expected to go up by 3C by 2050?

One of the key findings of my paper is that I see no evidence that populations within India have been able to successfully adapt to a warming climate, at least in terms of the suicide response to temperature.

Rising incomes realised through economic growth are often thought to enable populations to reduce the negative effects of climate.

Households with more economic resources may be able to invest in heat-tolerant seeds, pay the up front costs of irrigation technologies, or take up crop insurance, while poorer households may be unable to adopt such adaptive strategies.

Therefore, I test the hypothesis that as India's national income rose over the last five decades, the sensitivity of suicides to temperature, fell.

Likewise, increases in average crop yields could have weakened the link between temperature and suicide by providing agricultural households with more savings, and, hence, more resilience in light of an adverse climate event.

However, I found that these forms of adaptation were taking place, as the effect of temperature on suicide is virtually identical in recent years as it was nearly 50 years ago.

This suggests that without substantial investments in adaptation, we are likely to see a growing number of lives lost to self-harm as climate change continues to unfold and temperatures rise.

While I was indeed surprised to find no evidence of adaptation, this is not inconsistent with the broader literature on climate impacts, where researchers have found little evidence of adaptation in other regions of the world and for other types of climate damages.

For example, crop yields in the US have remained highly sensitive to hot temperatures over many decades of technological advances in farming.
Iqbal Kaskar, the brother of fugitive don Dawood Ibrahim, was on Monday detained by the crime branch of the Thane Police in connection with an investigation into an extortion case, the police said.

Iqbal was taken into custody from his house in Nagpada area in Central Mumbai by a team led by encounter specialist and the anti-extortion cell's senior police inspector Pradeep Sharma, they said.

According to sources, some extortion calls were made in Iqbal's name to a Thane-based businessman.

The businessman then approached the Anti-Extortion Cell of Thane Police with a complaint.

Acting on the complaint, Sharma's team went to Nagpada and took Iqbal into custody.

He was being questioned by the police officials.

Iqbal, who was deported from the United Arab Emirates in 2003, is said to be operating his brother's real estate business in the city, the police said.

He was wanted in a murder case and the Sara Sahara illegal construction case. However, he was acquitted in both the cases in 2007.

Sharma, who led the team that detained Kaskar, was suspended in Lakhan Bhaiya encounter case and was recently reinstated in the police force.
War hero Arjan Singh, who led India's Air Force against Pakistan in 1965, was on Monday cremated with full state honours, as fighter jets paid homage to him in a flypast and guns boomed a last salute to the only Marshal of the force.

IMAGE: The mortal remains of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh being taken on a gun carriage to the Brar Square for his last rites with state honours. Photograph: Kamal Singh/PTI Photo

The body of the 98-year-old legendary aviator was consigned to the flames by his son Arvind amid chantings of Sikh hymns at the Brar Square crematorium in Delhi Cantonment in the presence of several senior political leaders and the top brass of the Indian military.

A 17-gun salute was given in his honour while the IAF paid homage to the iconic hero of the 1965 war with a flypast of Sukhoi Su 30 fighter jets in the 'missing man formation' -- an aerial manoeuvre to show respect to a departed military leader.

IMAGE: Air Force fighter jets carry out fly-past in a missing man formation over the Delhi Cantonment during the last rites of the Marshal of the Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh. Photograph: Kamal Singh/PTI Photo

Mi-17 V5 helicopters flying in a 'vic' formation and trooping IAF colours carried out another flypast in honour of Singh, who died of a cardiac arrest on Saturday.

"End of an Era-Last Salute to the Brave Air warrior and a great leader," the IAF tweeted.

IMAGE: Air Force personnel carry the tricolour-draped coffin containing the mortal remains of the Marshal of the Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh during his last rites with state honours, at Brar Square. Photograph: PTI Photo

The national flag flew at half-mast at all government buildings in the national capital in honour of Singh.

Earlier, Singh's body, wrapped in the Indian tricolour, was taken to the Brar Square crematorium from his central Delhi residence, 7 Kautilya Marg, on a gun carriage.

IMAGE: Defence personnel accompany the procession for the state funeral of Marshal Arjan Singh in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo



Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party veteran L K Advani, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and Army chief General Bipin Rawat were among those present at the crematorium.

A number of former service chiefs, senior officials of the three services and Singh's family members also paid their tributes to the departed military icon at Brar Square.

IMAGE: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays a wreath during last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh at Brar Square in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: @DefenceMinIndia/Twitter



One of the finest soldiers of India, Singh had led a young Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singh's residence on Sunday and paid glowing tributes to the war hero.

IMAGE: Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the funeral. Photograph: PTI Photo

Singh is the only officer to have attained the highest rank of the Marshal of the Air Force, equivalent to the Army's five star field marshal, an honour given only to Sam Manekshaw and KM Cariappa.

Singh was a fearless and exceptional pilot who played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world, former colleagues said.

IMAGE: The national flag is seen at half mast at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo



Though known as a man of few words, Singh had deep knowledge of air power and applied it to a wide spectrum of areas, said Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Kapil Kak, a former IAF vice chief.

He said Singh had assiduously led the IAF during the 1965 war and denied success to Pakistan's air force though it was better equipped with American support.
Eighteen rebel All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MLAs were on Monday disqualified by Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal amid the power tussle between chief minister K Palaniswami and sidelined leader TTV Dinakaran.

Dinakaran said his MLAs will approach the court against the disqualification even as the rebels dubbed the move as a murder of democracy.

Our MLAs will move the court and we will get justice, he told reporters at Kancheepuram district.

The action against the 18 MLAs, who had revolted against Palaniswami last month, was taken under anti-defection and disqualification rules of 1986, said a statement from Assembly Secretary K Bhoopathy.

It said the rules were in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution.

With the Honourable Speaker ordering for the disqualification of MLAs from September 18, 2017, they have lost their membership, of the House, the statement said.

MLAs who have been disqualified are Thangatamilselvan, R Murugan, Mariappan Kennedy, K Kathirkamu, C Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P Palaniappan, V Senthil Balaji, S Muthiah, P Vetrivel, NG Parthiban, M Kothandapani, TA Elumalai, M Rengasamy, R Thangadurai, R Balasubramani, SG Subramanian, R Sundarraj and K Uma Maheswari.

Decrying the Speakers move, Vetrivel said, This is the height of mistakes being committed by those in power, in an apparent reference to Palaniswami.

This is the height of mistakes being committed by those in power It is not easy to disqualify even one MLA...This is murder of democracy, he said in response to the disqualification of the 18 MLAs including himself.

He said it was for the court to decide whether or not the disqualification is valid.

According to us, it is not valid, he added.

To a question, he declined to spell out his factions next course of action, saying not everything can be revealed now.

He, however, said, Let the floor test happen.

The action was taken to ensure the governments survival in a possible floor test since Palaniswami did not have the required 117 MLAs support in the 234-member House, he claimed.

Dinakaran loyalist and Perambur MLA, P Vetrivel, said they will move the court as soon as possible against Dhanapals decision.

The 18 MLAs, who were disqualified on Monday besides another, had on August 22 met the Tamil Nadu Governor Vidyasagar and conveyed that they had lost confidence in Palaniswami.

One of the dissident MLAs, STK Jakkaiyan, had later switched camps to support Palaniswami.

These MLAs had since been demanding the removal of the chief minister and have been hopping from resort to resort in Puducherry and Coorg apparently not to be persuaded to join the Palaniswami camp.

Their August 22 meeting with Rao had come a day after the formal merger of the two factions led by Palaniswami and then rebel leader and now Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam.

Earlier, Chief Government Whip S Rajendran had urged the Speaker to disqualify the said MLAs for anti-party activities following their revolt against the Chief Minister.

Though the Speaker had issued notices to all the dissident MLAs seeking their individual presence, they had, however, not turned up. But Jakkaiyan had met the Speaker and given an explanation.

A resolution adopted at a meeting chaired by Palaniswami on August 28 had said Dinakaran was removed from the post of Deputy General Secretary.

Opposition parties have since been insisting the Governor direct a floor test for the Palaniswami government for proving its majority in the assembly.
The government told the apex court that the decision whether or not to allow refugees to settle in the country was best left to the Executive.

IMAGE: A boy belonging to Rohingya Muslim community stands amidst the rubble of a burnt shop, at a makeshift settlement on the outskirts of Jammu. Photograph: Mukesh Gupta/Reuters

Terming the Rohingya refugees as "illegal" immigrants, the government on Monday told the Supreme Court that some of them were part of a "sinister" design of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence and terror groups such as the Islamic State, whose presence in the country will pose a "serious" national security threat.

The ministry of home affairs made its stand clear in a much-awaited affidavit in the apex court, in which it also said the fundamental right to settle in any part of the country was available only to citizens and not the Rohingyas.

It categorically stated that the apex court should not invoke its jurisdiction, as the issue of Rohingyas "fell under the exclusive domain of policy decision of the executive".

The affidavit was filed hours after a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that the government would file its reply in the course of the day on the PIL by two Rohingyas, challenging their deportation.

The affidavit was submitted as a response to a plea, filed by Rohingya immigrants Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, claiming they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

In the matter which will be heard next on October 3, the MHA said the "continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats."

Referring to the inputs of security agencies, the affidavit said the "Rohingyas figured in the suspected sinister designs of ISI/ISIS and other extremists groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India".

Moreover, since there was a "serious national security threat/concern", the government should be allowed to exercise its essential executive function by way of a policy decision to deport the Rohingyas in the larger interest of the nation, the affidavit said.

"I state and submit that some of the Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal/national security of India," the MHA official who signed the affidavit said, noting that their "illegal influx" in significant numbers, had started since 2012-13.

"The Central Government has contemporaneous security agencies inputs and other authentic material indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries.

"Over and above the said serious security concern already in existence, more disturbing part is that there is an organised influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar through agents and touts facilitating illegal immigrants Rohingyas into India ...This situation is seriously harming the national security of the country," it said.

The affidavit said some Rohingyas were involved in "illegal and anti national activities" like mobilisation of funds through hawala channels, procuring fake Indian ID cards besides indulging in human trafficking.

"A fragile Northeastern corridor may become further destabilised in case of stridency of Rohingya militancy, which the Central Government has found to be growing, if permitted to continue," it said.

There was also a serious potential and possibility of eruption of violence against the Buddhists who are Indian citizens by radicalised Rohingyas, the MHA document said.

The Centre then dealt with the fundamental right of citizens to reside, settle and move freely inside the country and said the apex court should not entertain the plea for extending these rights to the illegal Rohingyas.

"No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general and the rights...," the affidavit said.

The MHA also said that the citizens' rights like right to life and employment get adversely affected due to the burden on resources posed by the Rohingyas, whose numbers have now swelled to over 40,000.

The factual situation, the potential threat to internal and national security, diversion of national resources differ from case to case and the government takes decision in discharge of its executive functions based upon empirical data and objective facts by way of policy, the affidavit said.

It dealt with the provisions of 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees and said these were not applicable as India was not a signatory to either of them.

Seeking dismissal of the PIL, the government said such an indulgence would "encourage illegal influx of illegal migrants into our country and thereby deprive the citizens of India of their fundamental and basic human rights."

"So far as India is concerned, national security considerations rank the highest on the country's list of priorities, given its geopolitical influence in the region and its vulnerability to cross border infiltrations due to the porous nature of its borders, which our country shares with many countries," it said.

The MHA also said the inputs of security agencies and other sensitive details may be filed later by it in a sealed cover to substantiate its assertions made in the affidavit.

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission, which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived in New York on Monday to represent India at the annual UN General Assembly session and hold a series of meetings with her counterparts from around the world to further the country's foreign policy goals.

During her week-long stay here, Swaraj, leading a high-powered Indian delegation, is expected to hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

Swaraj, was received at the airport by the Indian Ambassador to the United States, Navtej Sarna, and India's permanent Representative to the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin.

She would kick off her official engagement later on Monday with a trilateral meeting with her American and Japanese counterparts Rex Tillerson, and Taro Kono respectively.

Aimed at lending momentum to cooperation between the three countries, the meeting assumes significant amid China flexing its muscles in the region.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.

In a preview of Swaraj's engagements, Akbaruddin had said that issues of climate change, terrorism, people-centric migration and peacekeeping are other key focus areas for India this year.

She will address the UN General Assembly on September 23.

The minister is scheduled to have a series of meetings on Monday, including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

Akbaruddin in an interaction with Indian reporters ruled out a bilateral meeting between Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart Khawaja Asif.

However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings, including that of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Swaraj is scheduled to leave for India, a day after her address to the UN General Assembly.

IMAGE: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj being received upon arrival in New York for 42nd UNGA on Monday. Photograph: @MEAIndia/Twitter
Without Myanmar, India can'T engage with any of the Asian nations to its east.

Subhomoy Bhattacharjee reports.

IMAGE: Rohingya refugees wait for food to be distributed outside a mosque in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Photograph: Danish Siddiqui/Reuters

There are more infrastructure projects connecting India with Myanmar than with any of New Delhi's other neighbours, as the external affairs ministry has discovered.

The largest of them -- the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transport Project -- originates from the home state of the persecuted population of Rohingyas.

Yet, since each of these projects needs government-to-government support to move even an inch, it is difficult for India to take a strident position without seriously compromising their viability.

These projects provide a crucial linkage to keep alive each of India's Look East initiatives.

Without Myanmar, India cannot engage with any of the Asian nations to its east, says Prabir De, professor, Asean-India Centre, Research and Information System for Developing Countries.

Other than Kaladan, there are seven more projects, including a trilateral highway -- a 1,600-kilometre highway to connect India with Thailand through Myanmar, which is slated to be completed by 2020.

The highway is part of the larger Mekong-India Economic Corridor project that envisages development of ports and more than one special economic zones over an 8,000 hectare area.

The project's expected completion date is 2022, but most experts anticipate handsome delays.

As of now only a small port has been made operational, while the construction of a road link from Dawei in Myanmar to the Thailand border has just begun.

According to the ministry of external affairs, the trilateral highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transport projects form the bedrock for promoting India's connectivity with Myanmar and beyond into the Asean region.

The Kaladan project aims to connect Kolkata by river and sea with the Myanmar port of Sittwe and further to Mizoram by road.

Sittwe is the capital of the disturbed Rakhine state in Myanmar.

Realising the significance of these projects, New Delhi has begun to pay a lot of attention to complementary projects in its north eastern states.

According to Naveen Verma, secretary, ministry Of development of north eastern region, the government is pushing aggressively to complete these connectivity projects, primarily those involving the railways.

These include a broad gauge railway line to Agartala and another line to connect with Imphal.

The viability of many of these can be at risk if the downstream projects are shelved.

Once connected, the road links through the once densely forested equatorial region will form a dense criss-cross of connections of India beginning from Moreh, through Myanmar, to Thailand and then onward to Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

It is possibly the largest agglomeration of infrastructure project in the region, says De.

Once the links begin to shape up India expects to earn substantial rewards as joint ventures in manufacturing sector such as automobile, pharma, textiles and chemicals can take shape.

There should be benefits for the services sector too in IT-BPO, tourism, education, maritime services, health and even in sharing of space technology.

But those benefits will first need governments to resolve differences at each stage.

For instance, there are bridges on a 500-kilometre road link from Moreh in India to Mandalay in Myanmar which cannot hold up the load of even a pickup truck.

Those bridges have literally slipped in the gap of inter-country coordination as the two neighbours work out even simple differences like measuring their weight bearing capacity.

"There is a need for government support to make many of these projects work," says India's Deputy National Security Adviser Arvind Gupta.

The projects are littered with every possible acronyms and include proposed road links, air connectivity plans, electricity grids and special economic zones on coasts.

Just like the forests, they need to also cut through the deep suspicion among the member states to cede controls.

In 2013, India had offered a $150 million credit for establishing the Kaladan project in Rakhine.

A 1,000-acre parcel of land is available from the Myanmar government. There has been no movement on the ground despite cordial relations at the top among the two government.

While the Indian SEZ and port are upstream with shallow draft of Sittwe town, there is a competing Chinese SEZ downstream of the town where bigger vessels can port.

"The delay in our project is making it even less attractive for the investors," De says.
He was awarded the distinguished Flying Cross in 1944. This honour is equivalent to today's Param Vir Chakra.

The Arjan Singh Trust for needy air force personnel was set up out of the proceeds of his farm house in Delhi being sold.

He was a charismatic leader of men and lived up to the fine traditions of soldiering, says Group Captain Murli Menon (retd).

The IAF has lost its only five star stalwart, the ram rod straight majestic personality of the Marshal of the India Air Force Arjan Singh, who passed on September 16 owing to a cardiac arrest at the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi Cantonment.

MIAF Arjan Singh was an officer and a gentleman in the true sense. He retired as the IAF's first Air Chief Marshal in 1970 when just 50 years of age, voluntarily, contributing an equivalent span of his life to public service as a diplomat and Delhi's lieutenant governor.

He was awarded the distinguished Flying Cross in 1944 during the Arakan campaign in Burma when he flew several valuable reconnaissance missions whilst commanding the illustrious No1 Squadron.

This award is equivalent to today's Param Vir Chakra.

He led the IAF to victory in the 1965 war against Pakistan, orchestrating his forces remarkably against a determined foe.

He chose to employ the flexibility of air power by pulling the fighter assets back to keep them out of PAF bombing range during night time, launching them against the enemy first thing in the morning again.

He was a charismatic leader of men, personally landing up at the field level to congratulate war heroes.

He believed in keeping his subordinates' morale high, on one occasion flying a 'beat up' sortie himself over a junior officer's wedding venue in Kerala!

Arjan Singh rose through the IAF ranks with credit, living up to the fine traditions of soldiering exhibited by his paternal ancestors in a glorious family from pre Partition Punjab.

His wife Teji was the epitome of charm herself, being instrumental in setting up the Arjan Trust for needy air force personnel, out of the proceeds of his farm house in Delhi being sold.

That showed his amazing large heartedness.

After his years in the blue uniform, he served as India's ambassador to Switzerland, the Vatican and as high commissioner to Kenya.

He was also a member of India's Minority Commission, showing the multifaceted nature of his contribution to society.

For people of my generation he will continue to be the shining beacon of military leadership and poise.

May his soul rest in peace.

IMAGE: Then US President Barack Obama greets Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh at Rashtrapati Bhavan, January 26, 2015. Photograph: Pete Souza/The White House
Burma: Targeted Sanctions, Arms Embargo Needed

Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 17 September 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Burma: Targeted Sanctions, Arms Embargo Needed, 17 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf74d64.html [accessed 14 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 Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims, Human Rights Watch said today. Since August 25, 2017, after attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), Burmese military forces have carried out mass arson, killing, and looting, destroying hundreds of villages and forcing nearly half a million Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh.

World leaders gathering in New York for the opening of the UN General Assembly should make the crisis in Burma a priority and condemn the ongoing atrocities and obstruction of humanitarian aid to those desperately in need. The Security Council should urgently place a travel ban and asset freeze on those responsible for grave abuses and impose a comprehensive arms embargo against Burma, including prohibiting military cooperation and financial transactions with key military-owned enterprises.

"Burmese security forces are committing ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya and disregarding the condemnation of world leaders," said John Sifton, Asia advocacy director. "The time has come to impose tougher measures that Burma's generals cannot ignore."

The Security Council should also demand that Burma allow humanitarian aid agencies to access people in need, permit entry to a UN fact-finding mission mandated to investigate violations in the country, and ensure the safe and voluntary return of those displaced.

As a first step, the Security Council should hold an open meeting to discuss council responses. The council should invite UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to brief on the crisis in western Burma's Rakhine State, which the UN high commissioner for human rights has referred to as a "textbook example of ethnic cleansing." The council should also discuss measures to bring those responsible for serious abuses to justice, including before the International Criminal Court.

Concerned governments should not wait for Security Council action to address the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Burma. They should impose travel bans and asset freezes on security officials implicated in serious abuses; expand existing arms embargoes to include all military sales, assistance, and cooperation; and place a ban on financial transactions with key Burmese military-owned enterprises.

The United States government should place the senior leadership of the Burmese military, notably commander-in-chief Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, on the US Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, which cuts off access to US financial institutions, restricts travel to the US, and freezes US assets. The European Union and its member countries should expand or impose similar targeted economic and travel sanctions, and extend the existing EU arms embargo against Burma to include all forms of military assistance. Similar measures should be taken by other concerned governments, including Japan, Norway, South Korea, Canada, and Australia.

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," Sifton said. "It hits those responsible for ethnic cleansing where it hurts."

Human Rights Watch analyzed a series of satellite images recorded between August 25 and September 16 that showed over 220 villages destroyed by fire in northern Rakhine State since the violence started. Rohingya villagers who have fled to Bangladesh have described Burmese security forces shooting villagers and setting fires to homes. The Burmese government alleges that ARSA fighters and Rohingya villagers are responsible for the buildings burned, but has so far failed to provide evidence of this claim.

Any ARSA commanders who are credibly implicated in serious abuses should also face sanctions.

Copyright notice:  Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Greece: No School for Many Asylum-Seeking Kids

Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 17 September 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Greece: No School for Many Asylum-Seeking Kids, 17 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf75664.html [accessed 14 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.

Greece's Education Ministry should move quickly to implement positive new plans for the education of asylum-seeking children on the Aegean islands and make schools accessible to all of them, Human Rights Watch said today. When the school year began on September 11, 2017, hundreds of asylum-seeking children who are being prevented from leaving the islands due to a European Union deal with Turkey remained out of school.

Greece will extend a program that provides special Greek classes and integration support for non-native speaking pupils to asylum-seeking children on the islands. But this program excludes children in the so-called refugee hotspots and other reception facilities who cannot obtain the proof of address required to enroll in school. To reach children in these facilities, the Education Ministry recently announced it would open afternoon classes at public schools on the islands.

"Greece's Education Ministry has crucial work ahead as it attempts to improve the country's dismal record of denying access to school to children seeking asylum on the islands," said Simon Rau, Mercator fellow at Human Rights Watch. "Children who have fled hellish conditions in search of safety in Europe need the support and hope a classroom provides and cannot wait until much of the school year has passed."

The new integration program and the afternoon classes will both exclude children over age 15, and a delay in providing vaccinations to asylum-seeking children poses problems because vaccinations are required for school enrollment. The ministry estimates that both programs will start in mid-October.

The Education Ministry should extend the programs to make formal education accessible to all asylum-seeking children of school-age as soon as possible, including for children over 15. It should speed up vaccinations so that the vaccination requirement is not a barrier to the right of all children to education. The ministry should end the arbitrary exclusion of children in refugee camps on the islands from public schools by opening the promised afternoon classes for them as soon as possible, and ensuring that they can obtain a proof of address to enroll.

In late August, Human Rights Watch interviewed 47 children ages 6 to 17 and/or their parents, who had arrived on the Greek islands of Lesbos, Samos, and Chios before the end of the last school year. None had gone to school there. "Aram," a father from Kobane, Syria, who has been living with his four school-age children in the Kara Tepe camp on Lesbos for more than a year said: "Without education they lose their future, but they have not done anything wrong."

Under Greek law, all asylum-seeking children in the country have the right to enroll in public schools. However, during the 2016-2017 school year, only 40 asylum-seeking children on the island of Lesbos could enroll in school, while about 530 asylum-seeking children of school age - ages 6 to 17 - were on the island as of August 29, according to United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) officials on the island. According to UNHCR on Chios, the island had 261 asylum-seeking children of school age in late August/early September, but not a single asylum-seeking child had been able to enroll in school in the 2016-2017 school year. On Samos, seven asylum-seeking children had enrolled, but 374 children of school age were registered on the island with UNHCR as of August.

In the 2016-2017 school year, Greece opened so-called afternoon preparatory (DYEP) classes to integrate asylum-seeking children into public schools on the Greek mainland. Enrolled children could attend lessons in Greek, English, mathematics, sports, arts, and computer science between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

By March, 2,643 had enrolled, but the program did not cover the islands. A report by an expert committee on education for refugee children in Greece said the Ministry of Migration Policy had set the restriction. On September 13, the Education Ministry told Human Rights Watch that it expected afternoon classes for asylum-seeking children in camps on the islands to open by mid-October, about a month after the school year in Greece began. The Ministry of Migration Policy should support opening public schools on the islands to all asylum-seeking children.

The Greek government's "Zones of Educational Priorities" (ZEP) program allows public schools with nine or more registered pupils who are not Greek native speakers to set up an "integration" class. Children in these classes receive special lessons in Greek, English, science, and mathematics to prepare them for full integration into Greek schools. They join their Greek peers in other classes, such as sports, information technology, and music.

For the 2017-2018 school year, the Education Ministry has secured funding for 700 ZEP classes across the country. A UNHCR official told Human Rights Watch that the program would be the first opportunity for asylum-seeking children on Chios to go to school.

That the ZEP classes will not open before mid-October risks causing children to drop out despite the new program, as they have to start the school year without the support of special classes. Eight-year-old "Sanya," from Syria, told Human Rights Watch that she looked forward to going to school on Lesbos, but her father Kamal worried that she may struggle with the Greek language.

All asylum-seeking children on the Greek mainland, including those in refugee camps, are eligible to join a ZEP class. On the islands, however, the program will exclude children living in camps, because they cannot obtain the proof of address required for school enrollment. On Samos, only 52 of the 374 asylum-seeking children ages 6 to 17 registered with UNHCR in August lived outside camps. In late August/early September on Chios, 43 of the 261 children ages 6 to 17 did, as did about a quarter of the 1,419 children on Lesbos as of July 31.

Greek law requires certain vaccinations for school enrollment, but these are not available for all asylum-seeking children before the beginning of the school year. According to a coordinator for Medecins Sans Frontieres, an international medical humanitarian organization that provides medical services to asylum-seekers in Greece, a lack of coordination between the Ministries of Health, Education, and Migration Policy is causing vaccination delays. While vaccinations were expected to be finalized for all children eligible for ZEP classes on Samos and Chios by mid-September, this may take until mid-October on Lesbos, said UNHCR officials on the islands.

"Greece promised to make public schools accessible to asylum-seeking children last year, but completely left out children on the islands," Rau said. "The new plans are laudable progress, but asylum-seeking children on the islands cannot wait any longer for Greece to fulfil their basic right to education."

Copyright notice:  Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Lesotho: Arrest of journalist a spurious and cynical ploy to intimidate the press

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 15 September 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Lesotho: Arrest of journalist a spurious and cynical ploy to intimidate the press, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf75d94.html [accessed 14 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 response to the arrest of the owner of MoAfrika FM, Candi Ramainoane, following the closure of the station earlier this week, Amnesty International's Deputy Director for Southern Africa, Muleya Mwananyanda said:

"The closure of MoAfrika FM and the arrest today of the station owner, Candi Ramainoane, is nothing more than a witch-hunt aimed at harassing and intimidating the country's press.

"The defamation charge against him is spurious and cynical and is meant to send a chilling message to other media owners and journalists of the consequences they face for scrutinising the government.

"Candi Ramainoane must be released immediately and unconditionally and be allowed to do his job. MoAfrika FM should also be re-opened immediately."

Candi Ramainoane and MoAfrika FM have been targeted for reporting critically about Lesotho's political affairs.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
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.
UNHCR shocked over Burundians deaths in DRC, calls for investigation

Publisher UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Publication Date 16 September 2017 Cite as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UNHCR shocked over Burundians deaths in DRC, calls for investigation, 16 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf791e4.html [accessed 14 November 2022]

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is shocked and saddened over the violent death of numerous Burundian nationals - among them likely refugees and asylum seekers, in Kamanyola, a town in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. UNHCR also calls for an investigation into this tragic incident.

While the precise circumstances are not yet clear, reports indicate that in the course of a confrontation with Burundian demonstrators, Congolese security forces opened fire on the crowd. Initial reports suggest over 30 dead and more than one hundred left injured.

UNHCR and its partners have sent teams to Kamanyola, including medical staff, to treat the injured.

Kamanyola hosts 2005 refugees and asylum seekers from Burundi, most of whom arrived in 2015. A total of 43,769 Burundian refugees live in DRC.
Boko Haram  the fear, the conspiracy theories, and the deepening crisis

Publisher IRIN Author Idayat Hassan Publication Date 30 August 2017 Cite as IRIN, Boko Haram  the fear, the conspiracy theories, and the deepening crisis, 30 August 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf7aa14.html [accessed 14 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 fear is palpable in northeast Nigeria as Boko Haram intensifies its war on civilians. The military's regular claim that the jihadists are on the run is patently false, and provides no comfort to anyone.

Instead, this is the reality.

- Since January, there have been at least 83 suicide bombings by children - a figure four times higher than last year.

- Of the four roads leading out of Maiduguri, the main city in the northeast, only the Maiduguri-Damaturu-Kano road is adjudged safe.

- In rural areas, people are not able to venture more than four kilometres out of the main towns in each local government area because of insecurity.

- In Maiduguri's mosques, people now pray in relay. As one group prays, another keeps watch to guard against suicide bombers.

The death tolls are startling. In the last two months, high-profile Boko Haram raids have included:

- An attack on oil workers and soldiers prospecting in the Lake Chad Basin in which more than 50 reportedly died.

- The shooting and hacking to death of 31 fishermen on two islands in the Lake Chad Basin.

In response to the rising tempo of attacks, acting President Yemi Osinbajo ordered the deployment of all his military chiefs to Maiduguri in July. It hasn't stopped the violence.

The insecurity has undermined farming in the northeast, resulting in serious food shortages in pockets of the region. Boko Haram has taken to seizing food and goods from communities in Damboa, Azir, Mungale, ForFor, Multe, Gumsiri - to mention just a few.

The military are also accused of threatening communities that do not vacate their villages and move to the poorly serviced internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

Those that stay behind risk not only being plundered by Boko Haram, but also the confiscation of their goods and produce by the army, on the grounds that they are in league with the insurgents.

In the Lake Chad Basin in particular, Boko Haram is moving into the traditional fish and bell pepper trade. It not only helps finance their insurgency, but muddies the identification of who is a combatant.

Nowhere seems safe - even Maiduguri. In recent months there have been bomb blasts at the Dalori IDP camp, Maiduguri university, a general hospital, and a major coordinated gun attack on the city itself.

Know your enemy

The military not only appears powerless, but lacks the operational intelligence to thwart the attacks. That lack of awareness - over both the nature of the threat and how to deal with it - led the army's head of public relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman, to accuse parents of "donating" their children to Boko haram as suicide bombers.

The raid by the military on the UN's headquarters in Maiduguri in August was another example of woeful intelligence. The army said it was conducting a cordon and search operation for high-value Boko Haram suspects, and did not know it was entering a UN building because there was no insignia.

But the incident does point to the level of distrust over the work of humanitarian agencies. The word on the street in Maiduguri the morning of the raid was that the leader of one Boko Haram faction, Abubakar Shekau, was in UN House - along with a secret store of ammunition.

Conspiracy theories abound and aid workers are implicated. A common allegation is that they provide food, fuel, and drugs to Boko Haram under the guise of delivering humanitarian aid.

An additional gripe is that what aid is being delivered to the needy is not enough. The World Food Programme suspended food handouts in Borno this week after IDPs in Gubio camp rioted, destroying five vehicles belonging to International Medical Corps. They were protesting, they said, that they had not received rations in two months.

And then there are the grievances over aid agencies not employing enough locals, and that foreign aid workers do not respect local norms and traditions in what is a conservative society.

It's an unhappy relationship. The overriding perception here is that the surge in aid agencies to the northeast is not what is required - people want security first, and then they can take care of their own needs.

Guarding the guards

But arguably the biggest problem is that the military are far from uniformly trusted to provide that security.

The most enduring conspiracy theory is that behind the eight-year war are conflict entrepreneurs in the military high command and the political class. They are accused of perpetuating the violence to feather their own nests, at the expense of the lives of Nigerian citizens.

Although there has been a series of major weapons purchases, from attack helicopters to an extremely expensive deal for ground-attack planes from the United States, it doesn't seem to have added to the fighting capability of the military.

The confusion over who's who is also exemplified by the tension between the army and the vigilante Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). It is the CJTF that has been the military's eyes and ears, the first responders manning the roadblocks in towns and villages. Armed with little more than traditional weapons, 680 of them have been killed so far in the conflict.

Yet the military distrusts them, believing that within their ranks are Boko Haram Fifth Columnists (which is probably true, along with criminals and other miscreants). But the CJTF see themselves as community defenders. They receive little or no remuneration for their work, and no insurance cover.

The atmosphere of suspicion over the enemy within extends to the tension between IDPs and those who remained in their communities when Boko Haram arrived. As IDPs return to those areas adjudged safe, it's easy to label those that stayed behind as collaborators, brainwashed by the insurgents' ideology.

As the counter-insurgency campaign stumbles on, Boko Haram clearly believe it now has the momentum, after being on the ropes last year - driven from all the towns they controlled.

The propaganda war certainly seems to be going their way.

Since the beginning of the year, Shekau has released 11 videos. The more low-key Boko Haram faction led by Abu Musab al-Barnawi (who publicly shuns indiscriminate attacks on civilians) has now stirred and published two videos in the space of a month.

There was once talk of ceasefires and negotiations - that seems very distant right now.
The Perils of Cousin Marriage

Publisher Institute for War and Peace Reporting Publication Date 1 September 2017 Cite as Institute for War and Peace Reporting, The Perils of Cousin Marriage, 1 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf908a4.html [accessed 14 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.

When 29-year-old Alia looks at her two sick children, she wishes she could go back in time to refuse the arranged marriage that led to their illness. Both have muscular atrophy, a serious condition that retards proper growth.

Alia is one of hundreds of women in Idlib and its countryside whose children were born with deformities or genetic diseases as a result of consanguineous marriage.

"It is normal in our society for a girl to marry her cousin, especially since most parents are relatives themselves," Alia said. Her own parents are first cousins, although their children were all born healthy.

Faten al-Souwayd, a 38-year-old social worker, denounced the phenomenon which she estimated as accounting for around half of all marriages in Idlib and its countryside.

"Most congenital malformations in children are caused by consanguineous marriage," she said. "Recently, we have seen the phenomenon of marrying the brother's widow, who is also a relative, which causes the transmission of genetic diseases to the offspring."

The main reasons for such unions were, she continued, "Keeping inheritances within the family, the dominance of cousin relationships, the displacement of families, and here most families don't trust strangers, unlike their relatives."

Suheir al-Rahal, now 25, recalled how her cousin told her, "You are either mine or no one's."

Since Suhair hated this cousin, her parents had to send her to live with her brother who lived in Damascus.

There, a young man proposed to her and she married him, far away from the cousin who claimed he would kill any of her suitors.

Some women in Idlib said that they were married to their cousins against their will, while others said that they had no objections to the union. However, they failed to take into account the possible health implications.

Hanan al-Aahi, 38, from Maarrat al-Nu'man, has a happy marriage with her cousin, who she said she loved deeply. Two of their children are perfectly healthy, but the third and fourth suffer from thalassemia.

This is a serious genetic disease which needs lifelong therapy in the form of monthly blood transfusions and a daily drugs to remove excess iron from the body. Without regular treatment, suffers may develop chronic anaemia, bone malformations and delayed growth, ultimately leading to death.

Hanan has to taken her children to Kafr Nabl every 20 days for blood transfusions.

"I do not dare to conceive again because I'm afraid that I will have other sick children, especially as the doctor assured me that it could happen again," she said sadly.

Nonetheless, Hanan said that she was grateful she had two healthy children.

"No doubt my husband would have married another woman so as to have healthy children, even if he didn't want to give up on me. In the end, he deserves a chance to have children who will inherit his name," she concluded.

Gynaecologist Asmaa Shaaban explained that thalassemia was a recessive genetic disease, where the father and mother were healthy but had a 25 per cent chance of passing the condition to their children.

The 35-year-old said that this was one of a number of diseases that were often the result of consanguineous marriage. Treatment was physically and emotionally painful for both the patient and the parents.

"Genetic diseases are very numerous and many are caused by a problem in an estimated number of 30,000 genes," agreed Hala Khatib, 30, another gynaecologist and the director of the Women's Medical Centre in Kafr Nabl.

She advised engaged people to undergo medical tests before marriage to avoid causing harm to any future children.

Some religious leaders also advise this course of action.

"Religion doesn't ban consanguineous marriage but urges caution through taking the necessary tests," explained Sheikh Ahmed Khatib, 45.

For some couples, however, it is too late for testing. All Shahira Taataa's three children have cerebral atrophy. Aged between nine and 12 years, they are severely disabled and can't move, speak or even sit.

The 31-year-old is married to her cousin, although both of them are perfectly healthy. Doctors have told them that their children's condition is because of their consanguineous marriage.

Nonetheless, Shahira got pregnant again. She said she felt guilty but still nurtured the hope of having one healthy child to lighten up a life she described as "dark".

Copyright notice:  Institute for War & Peace Reporting
Renewed violence in CAR drives record levels of displacement

Publisher UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Author Catherine Wachiaya Publication Date 15 September 2017 Cite as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Renewed violence in CAR drives record levels of displacement, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf97434.html [accessed 14 November 2022]

Pierre is tired, both mentally and physically. Escalating violence in the Central African Republic has forced him to bundle up his family and few belongings and run for his life once again.

"We are tired of fleeing," says the 62-year-old father of six. "This is the third time that I have been displaced with my family."

Pierre first fled for his life in 2013, at the height of the conflict. Three years later, he and his family sought safety at a site for displaced people in the town of Bria in central CAR. "When the site was attacked last August, we had to flee again," he explains.

Further south, in the town of Zemio, Marie, 30, is staying at another site for the displaced, but longs for her home and former life. "We lack everything," she says.

Since May 2017, fresh fighting between armed groups in CAR has wrought new waves of destruction, bloodshed and displacement. Many of the displaced, like Pierre and Marie, speak of having witnessed killings, robberies, lootings and kidnappings.

Some 600,000 people have been forced to flee inside the country since 2013. Many of the new displacements have taken place in areas such as Zemio that had not previously been affected by the conflict. Another 500,000 have sought refuge in neighbouring countries. This is the highest number of refugees seen since the start of the crisis in 2013.

By the end of August, the Democratic Republic of Congo was hosting over 167,000 Central African refugees, almost 40 percent of whom fled the recent fighting. Cameroon is hosting another 236,000 refugees and Chad has received over 74,000 refugees from CAR, most of them women and children. The Republic of the Congo hosts an additional 31,499 refugees.

Yapele Nicolas counts himself lucky to made it across the border into Chad with his two wives and seven children. "We fled the war in CAR and thanks to UNHCR's protection, we now live here in safety," he says.

The family live in a refugee camp near the village of Diba in Southern Chad. "We are on good terms with Chadians in the neighbouring villages," says Yapele. "They let us use the land to farm and get something to eat and supplement the humanitarian aid."

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has warned that if the upsurge in violence continues to go unchecked, previous progress towards peace and stability will be reversed. The current insecurity is also hampering efforts to deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid. Some planned humanitarian deliveries by air have been delayed or blocked, due to the presence of armed groups.

Moreover, aid agencies, including UNHCR, are increasingly among those targeted by armed groups and have, in some instances, been compelled to temporarily withdraw their staff.

Despite these challenges, UNHCR has continued to work with partner agencies and Government ministries to deliver aid and, where possible, to help people return home.

"Our concern at the moment is the protection of civilians who are internally displaced," says Buti Kale, UNHCR's Representative in CAR. He adds that approximately 54,000 displaced people have returned to their homes in the capital, Bangui.

"We will continue working with other UN agencies to help with safe and voluntary returns in Bangui and hopefully do the same in other provinces."

However, this can only happen if the transition to peace and stability is fully supported. UNHCR has appealed for US$209 million in 2017 to assist those displaced inside CAR and to meet the needs of Central African refugees in the region. But so far, a mere 9 percent of that figure has been received, making the CAR situation one of the most underfunded humanitarian emergencies in the world.

Additional reporting by Aikaterini Kitidi in Geneva.
Two Burmese journalists arrested in Bangladesh while covering Rohingya exodus

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 16 September 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Two Burmese journalists arrested in Bangladesh while covering Rohingya exodus, 16 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf99134.html [accessed 14 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calls on the Bangladeshi authorities to act judiciously in the case of two Burmese journalists held on spying charges in the southeastern city of Cox's Bazar. They were arrested a week ago while on assignment for the German magazine GEO to cover the Rohingya refugee crisis.

Photo-journalist Minzayar Oo and his assistant Hkun Lat are facing the possibility for being jailed for five years for trying to cover the crisis resulting from the exodus of around 400,000 Muslim Rohingyas from neighbouring Myanmar since late August.





They were arrested on 7 September although the police did not report their detention until Friday. After their arrest, they were taken to the capital, Dhaka, for secret interrogation and were then returned to Cox's Bazar.





The police said the charges against them include spreading "false information" and "false impersonation" because they entered Bangladesh on tourist visas rather than as journalists - charges described as relatively minor by their lawyer, Jyotirmoy Barua.





But they are also charged with spying because, according to the Cox's Bazar police chief, they were "collecting information on the Rohingya for Myanmar." This carries a possible five-year jail sentence.





"We are very disturbed by the spying charge, which is not based on any evidence and is probably due to factors that have nothing to do with these two journalists," said Daniel Bastard, the head of RSF's Asia-Pacific desk. "Their professionalism is unanimously recognized and they were just trying to do their job by documenting the region's acute crisis."





A request for their release on bail was rejected yesterday. Meanwhile, they have not been able to see their lawyer. RSF calls on the Bangladeshi authorities to respect the rule of law in their handling of the case.





Bangladesh is ranked 146th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index.
Press freedom violations recounted in real time January 2017

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Press freedom violations recounted in real time January 2017, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf996c4.html [accessed 14 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.

14.09.2017 - Detention of two journalists extended by another month

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns a judicial decision to extend the provisional detention of two journalists  Sasan Aghai, the deputy editor of the newspaper Etemad and Yaghma Fashkhami, a reporter for the news website Dideban e Iran  by another month in violation of both Iranian law and international standards. They are also being denied the right to see a lawyer and to be visited by their families.





Both were arrested last month at their workplace by plainclothesmen from the justice department's intelligence protection section  Aghai on 11 August and Fashkhami on 21 August. The authorities have still not said why they were arrested or where they are being held.

----------







11.09.2017 - Kurdish journalist freed on completing jail term

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is pleased to learn that Khosro Kurdpour, a Kurdish journalist who edited the Mokeryan news website in the northwestern city of Mahabad, was released on 8 September on completing a sentence of five-year in prison. Ministry of intelligence officials arrested him at his home in Mahabad on 7 March 2013, one day before summoning and then arresting his brother, Masoud Kurdpour, who contributed to the website. The Mahabad revolutionary court that sentenced them both on 9 November 2013 gave Masoud Kurdpour a three and a half years jail term.

----------







30.08.2017  Two women journalists freed provisionally

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is relieved to learn that Hengameh Shahidi, a woman journalist who edited the Paineveste blog, and Zeniab Karimian, a woman journalist who hosted a programme on Iran's 3rd TV channel, were both released provisionally yesterday on bail of 900 million toman (810,000 euros).





Arrested on 9 March, Shahidi staged several hunger strikes in protest against her detention and prison conditions, despite being very ill. Karimian was arrested at her home on 23 January 2017 by intelligence ministry plainclothesmen.





Both were held in isolation in different security sections of Tehran's Evin prison, initially under the intelligence ministry's control and then under the control of the justice department's intelligence section. When Shahidi emerged from the prison, she appeared weak and had clearly lost a lot of weight.

----------







07.08.2017  Imprisoned citizen-journalist's wife arrested

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the arrest of Nastaran Naimi, the wife of the imprisoned citizen-journalist Soheil Arabi. Plainclothesmen arrested her at her home on 31 July after searching it. Her family has still not been told why she was arrested or where she is being held.





Arabi has been detained for the past three and a half years. Arrested by Revolutionary Guards in December 2013, he was incarcerated in Security Section 2a of Tehran's Evin prison, where he was isolated and mistreated for two months to get him to confess to helping to create a Facebook network that blasphemed Islam and criticized the government.

The confession led to the imposition of a death sentence in August 2014, which  following protests by his lawyer and the intercession of UN special rapporteurs  was eventually overturned. At a retrial in September 2015, he was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison starting with two years under observation, during which time he must prove he has repented to avoid reimposition of the death sentence.

----------







02.08.2017 - A journalist and four Telegram group administrators bailed

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that four administrators of a group that used the instant messaging service Telegram to circulate information  Seid Mojtaba Bagheri, Said Naghdi, Javad Jamshidi and Nima Keshvari  were freed on bail of 500 million toman (410,000 euros) on 30 and 31 July.

Held in Tehran's Evin prison after their arrest by Revolutionary Guards on 16 March, they are due to be tried on 12 August. Two other members of the group who were arrested at the same time, Sobhan Jafari Tash and Ali Ahmadinia, will be freed as soon as their bail is paid, their lawyer, Ali Mojtahad Zadeh, said.





RSF has also learned that the journalist and photographer Assal Esmaeilzadeh was freed on bail of 300 million toman (270,000 euros) on 13 July pending trial. She was arrested without charge at the behest of the Tehran prosecutor's office for culture and media on 20 June.

----------







30.06.2017 - Two months after release, journalist sentenced again

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the six-month jail sentence that was imposed on Issa Saharkhiz, the former editor of several, now-closed reformist newspapers, on 19 June, just two months after his release. His lawyer, Mahmoud Alizadeh-Tabatabaie, said he was convicted of insulting the head of the judicial system.





One of the victims of a wave of arrests in early November 2015, Saharkhiz was sentenced by a Tehran revolutionary court in August 2016 to three years in prison on charges of anti-government propaganda and insulting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. His lawyer reported at the time that two other charges against Saharkhiz  publishing false news and insulting the head of the judicial system  would be tried separately as political crimes before a court of assizes.





After the latest sentence was passed on 19 June, Alizadeh-Tabatabaie pointed out that the court had accepted that his client's criticism of the head of the judicial system had been personal in nature. It therefore could not be regarded as a political crime meriting a six-month jail sentence, he added, announcing that they planned to appeal.





Saharkhiz was released on 15 April after being deemed to have completed the first sentence. While held, he staged several hunger strikes in protest against his imprisonment and had been serving his sentence in a Tehran hospital since March 2016.

----------







26.06.2017 - Newspaper journalist freed provisionally

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that, after payment of 300 million toman (270,000 euros) in bail, Borna News social affairs editor Tahereh Riahai was released provisionally on 24 June pending trial. Arrested by plainclothes intelligence officers on 27 December 2016, she had been kept in isolation in Section 209 of Tehran's Evin prison for months.

----------







23.06.2017 - Ahmadinejad's former press adviser arrested

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that Abdol Reza Davari, former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's onetime press adviser, who also once ran the newspaper Shahrvand and the government news agency Irna, was arrested on 31 May in order to serve a three-year jail sentence.

Davari was convicted in September 2013 of "insulting" Supreme Leader AliKhamenei in three comments posted on Facebook and was given a six-year jail sentence that was reduced to three years on appeal. He was arrested two days after posting an open letter criticizing Ebrahim Raisi and Mostafa Pour Mohammadi, two members of a commission that passed death sentences in 1988 on thousands of political prisoners who refused to renounce their beliefs.

----------







01.06.2017 - Narges Mohammadi back in prison two days after operation

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is very concerned about the health of Narges Mohammadi, an imprisoned journalist and human rights defender who has been returned to prison just two days after undergoing an operation. Rushed to hospital with severe uterine bleeding on 28 May, Mohammadi was operated on the next day and was taken back to prison yesterday.

Held since May 2015, Mohammadi was deemed to have completed an initial six-year sentence on 17 March and immediately began a second, ten-year one. She has several ailments including muscular paralysis but is being denied the medical care she needs. Her health is in danger and she should not be in prison. We call for her immediate release.

----------







24.05.2017 - Magazine editor Morad Saghafi released on bail

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that Morad Saghafi, the editor of the magazine Goft o Gu (Dialogue in Persian), was released on payment of bail on 20 May pending trial. He had been arrested at his Tehran home on 16 March.

----------







18.05.2017 - Hengameh Shahidi suspends hunger strike

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) was relieved to learn today that imprisoned

journalist Hengameh Shahidi decided to suspend her hunger strike after receiving a visit from her family in 16 May and a promise from the Tehran prosecutor's office that her appalling prison conditions will be improved and that she will be given complete medical examinations.

According to her family, she is suffering from several heart and respiratory ailments, along with other conditions. She had not been eating any food since 10 May.

---------







12.05.2017  Journalist freed after ten years in prison

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is pleased to learn that Mohammad Sedegh Kabodvand, the editor of Payam-e mardom-e Kurdestan (a regional newspaper closed by the authorities in 2004), was granted a conditional release today on completing ten years in prison.





Held since July 2007 in Tehran's Evin prison, Kabodvand was sentenced to a total of 11 years in prison in connection with his journalistic activities and his creation of a human rights organization in Iranian Kurdistan, the northern region where he lived.





He has been freed provisionally pending a judicial decision on the application of article 134 for the new Islamic criminal code to the rest of his sentence. Under a 2013 amendment to the code, a person convicted on several charges should serve only the most important sentence. By this token, he should have been freed four years ago.

--------







27.04.2017 - Two journalists freed conditionally

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that two imprisoned journalists, Kaivan Karimi and Issa Saharkhiz, have been released conditionally in the past week.





Karimi, a young documentary filmmaker, was freed on 20 April after completing half of the one-year sentence he received in November 2016 . Saharkhiz, the editor of several reformist newspapers was released on 25 April. His lawyer, Mahmoud Alizadeh-Tabatabaie, said he had completed his sentence.





One of the victims of a wave of arrests in early November 2015, Saharkhiz was sentenced by a Tehran revolutionary court in August 2016 to three years in prison on charges of anti-government propaganda and insulting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. While held, he staged several hunger strikes in protest against his imprisonment and had been hospitalized since March 2016. The sentence was reduced last September.

Ranked 165th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press

Freedom Index, Iran is one of the world's five biggest prisons for

media personnel, with a total of 28 journalists and citizen journalists

detained.



----------







19.04.2017  Narges Mohammadi begins serving second jail term

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is outraged by the continuing persecution of journalist and leading human rights defender Narges Mohammadi, who has just started serving a ten-year prison sentence on completing a six-year one. She received the ten-year sentence a year after her most recent arrest, on 5 May 2015.





Mohammadi has a long history of persecution by the judicial authorities and has been arrested several times. During her spells out of prison, she has worked closely with Nobel peace laureate Shirin Ebadi at the Centre for Human Rights Defenders.





The six-year sentence followed her arrest at her home on the evening of 10 June 2010. She was convicted two months later on charges of "meeting and plotting against the Islamic Republic," "anti-government publicity:" and "collaborating with the Centre for Human Rights Defenders" and was given an 11-year jail term that was reduced to six years on appeal in March 2011.

Mohammadi suffered muscular paralysis as a consequence of the heavy-handed interrogation sessions to which she was subjected after her arrest in 2010. As a result, she was paroled in July 2012.

----------







17.03.2017 - More journalists arrested

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) yet again condemns the persecution of journalists in Iran after at least three more were arrested in the past week.





The latest victims include Morad Saghafi, the editor of the magazine Goft o Gu ("Dialogue" in Persian), who was arrested at his Tehran home yesterday and was taken to an unknown location. His lawyer, Hamed Zargar, said neither he nor Saghafi's family have been told why he was arrested.





Meanwhile, Ali Motahari, the deputy speaker of Iran's parliament, yesterday asked the minister of intelligence to explain why a military unit recently arrested 12 editors of pro-reform information pages on the instant messaging service Telegram.

Motahari also criticized the detention of Ehssan Mazandarani, the former editor of the newspaper Farhikhteghan, on 12 March (see RSF's 13 March release). His wife, Malieh Hossieni, a journalist with the newspaper Farhikhteghana, was fired the day after his arrest.





Although banned, apps and social networks such as Telegram, Facebook and Twitter nowadays play an important role in providing Iranians with news and information. Telegram says it has more than 15 million users in Iran.

According to the Kalameh news website, Ali Ahmadinia, the administrator of the Eslahat News (Reform News) channel on Telegram, was arrested on 14 March and was taken to an unknown location.





RSF is currently very concerned about the health of two journalists who have been on hunger strike since their arrest. One is Mazandarani, who was arrested on 12 March (see above). The other Henghameh Shahidi, who was arrested on 9 March.

----------







15.03.2017  Former editor gets six-month jail term

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the six-month prison sentence that has been passed on Hossein Karoubi, the former editor of Etemad Meli (a newspaper closed since August 2009) for circulating the open letter that his father, Mehdi Karoubi, wrote to President Hassan Rohani.

In the April 2016 letter, published in mostly foreign-based media outlets and on social networks, Mehdi Karoubi asks to be tried before a public court "in order to present the evidence I possess about massive fraud during the 2005 and 2009 presidential elections and to show what has happened to young Iranians in the country's legal and illegal detention centres."





Etemad Melli's owner and a former parliamentary speaker, Mehdi Karoubi has been under house arrest since February 2011, a fate he has shared with former Prime Minister Mir Hossein Mousavi (the owner of the closed newspaper Kalameh Sabaz) and Mousavi's wife, the writer Zahra Rahnavard. Mousavi and Mehdi Karoubi, who are both former presidential candidates, are being held illegally and are being denied their rights. Their state of health is very worrying.





RSF has meanwhile learned that Samna Safari, a journalist with the monthly Andisher Poya, was released on 11 March after the authorities determined that he had served his two-year jail sentence. Detained along with three other journalists in a wave of arrests in November 2015, he was sentenced by a revolutionary court in March 2016 to five years in prison for "anti-government propaganda activities." This was reduced to two years on appeal.

----------







28.02.2017  City of Qom suspends newspaper

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the decision by the city of Qom's public prosecutor to suspend the newspaper Shakheh Sabz on 26 February, a day after it ran a story criticizing the level of violence in one of its poorest districts, which it likened to a "jungle." The suspension was ordered after 136 parliamentarians supported a resolution accusing the daily of "insulting the population of the Holy City of Qom." The newspaper's name means "Green Branch."

----------







22.02.2017  Ahmad Montazeri returned to prison

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) firmly condemns progressive cleric Ahmad Montazeri's arrest yesterday. The editor of the website of his late father, Ayatollah Hossein Ali Montazeri, he was returned to prison after being summoned before a special court for clerics.

Tried behind closed doors and without a defence lawyer on 20 October, Montazeri was sentenced on 27 November to ten years in prison for endangering state security, ten years for publishing a "classified audio recording" and another year for anti-government "propaganda."

He was prosecuted for posting an old recording on the website on 9 August 2016 in which his father could be heard criticizing the wave of executions of political prisoners in the 1980s.

For more information: Ahmad Montazeri gets 21-year jail term as part of bid to suppress history





----------







17.02.2017 - Editor freed on completing jail term

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that Ehssan Mazndarani  the editor of the newspaper Farhikhteghan and one of the victims of a wave of arrests in November 2015  was released on 9 February. He had been given a seven-year jail sentence that was reduced to two years on appeal, His lawyer said he was freed as a result of a decision that he had completed his sentence. While in prison, he was hospitalized several times with heart and chest problems after a three-week hunger strike.

----------







10.01.2017 - Website reporter flogged for getting facts wrong

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is appalled to learn that Hossien Movahedi, a local news website reporter, was flogged last week in Najafabad, a city 450 km south of Tehran, for getting one of his facts wrong in a story about the confiscation of mopeds from female students at a technological secondary school in the city.





Movahedi reported on the Najafabad News website on 14 June 2016 that the police seized 35 mopeds when, according to the police, it was only eight. Although he apologized for his mistake and although the police were allowed to publish their version on the website, the police pressed charges against him and a Najafabad court sentenced him to 40 lashes for "publishing false information." This inhuman and medieval sentence was carried out on 4 January.





Iran has yet to ratify the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment.

----------







06.01.2016 - Woman journalist freed on completing one-year jail term

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has learned that Rihaneh Tabatabai, a journalist who has worked for several reformist newspapers, was released yesterday on completing a one-year jail term on charges of endangering national security and anti-government publicity. She was arrested on 12 January 2016 to begin serving the sentence, which was originally imposed in November 2014 and was confirmed by a Tehran appeal court a year later. The sentence also includes two-year ban on political and journalistic activity in the media and online following her release. In all, Tabatabai has been jailed four times since 2010 in connection with her journalistic activities.





----------







Press freedom violations recounted in real time (January -December 2016)



--------------------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (January -December 2015)

-------------------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time ( January-December 2014)

----------------------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time ( January-December 2013)

----------------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (January-December 2012)

----------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (January-December 2011)

-----

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (July-December 2010)

--------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (January-July 2010)

---------

Press freedom violations recounted in real time (June-December 2009)
Call for release of Kyrgyz journalist sentenced to four years in prison

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Call for release of Kyrgyz journalist sentenced to four years in prison, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bf9d904.html [accessed 14 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is appalled by Kyrgyz journalist Zulpukar Sapanov's four-year jail sentence for allegedly "inciting hatred between religious faiths" in a book about pre-Islamic beliefs in Kyrgyzstan and calls for his conviction to be overturned on appeal.

Although Kyrgyzstan boasts of being an island of free speech in Central Asia, a court in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, passed the sentence on 12 September. The judges said the book "downplays Islam's role as a religion and fosters a negative attitude towards Muslims".





Entitled "Kydyr Sanzhyrasy," the book describes itself as a detailed study of pre-Islamic beliefs and ancient pagan traditions among the Kyrgyz people. When published last year, it was fiercely denounced by Kyrgyz religious leaders, who regarded it as an internationally-inspired attempt to destabilize the country.





It was at their request that Sapanov was placed under investigation on suspicion of violating article 299 of the criminal code. The investigation was carried out by the State Committee on National Security (GKNB), which searched his home in February.





"Zulpukar Sapanov's imprisonment sets a disturbing precedent for freedom of expression in Kyrgyzstan," said Johann Bihr, the head of RSF's Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk. "We condemn his conviction and call on the courts to release him without delay."





During the trial, Sapanov said the evaluations of his book by the independent expert commissioned by the court were not serious analyses. He has filed an appeal.





Fear of "disturbing social peace" has been fuelled in Kyrgyzstan by various waves of violence, the latest of which left around 500 dead in the south of the country in 2010. As a result, inter-ethnic relations have long been the subject of a great deal of self-censorship.





But Sapanov's imprisonment has reinforced concerns about media freedom violations, which have been getting more and more frequent in the run-up to next month's presidential election.





Kyrgyzstan is ranked 89th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index.
Cite as

UN Human Rights Council, Report of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on its visit to the United States of America, 17 July 2017, A/HRC/36/37/Add.2, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfaeef4.html [accessed 14 November 2022]
Restoring UN Leadership of Libya's Peace Process

Publisher International Crisis Group (ICG) Publication Date 18 September 2017 Cite as International Crisis Group (ICG), Restoring UN Leadership of Libya's Peace Process, 18 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfb9a14.html [accessed 14 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 20 September, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, will chair a high-level meeting on Libya on the side-lines of the General Assembly. After a long period of drift in international diplomacy, this marks an opportunity to bring greater clarity of purpose to the UN's mission in Libya. In the meeting's aftermath, UN member states should speak in a united voice about the urgency of healing the country's institutional divides, addressing pressing economic and security challenges and empowering the Secretary-General's new Special Representative, Ghassan Salame, to find the best way to relaunch an effective and inclusive political process.

Initial indications are that Salame, who is expected to present his plan for negotiations, will seek to work within the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement (LPA) signed in Skhirat, Morocco, in December 2015 even as he seeks to quickly renegotiate some if its elements. There is widespread international consensus that the LPA, despite its flaws, is the only viable framework at the moment; its collapse would leave an institutional and legal vacuum. The UN is expected to initiate its renegotiation by seeking to get two key institutions whose role is endorsed by the agreement, the House of Representatives (the parliament elected in June 2014 and operating from the eastern city of Tobruk), and the State Council (an advisory body created by the LPA and whose members largely are drawn from a previous parliament) to fulfil their intended functions under the agreement - something neither has done since they were created. The goal also is to get them to agree to new arrangements for the composition and mission of both the Presidency Council, the body created by the LPA and supposed to act in a head-of-state capacity for a transition period, and the Government of National Accord, the executive body supposed to run state affairs. This would be a welcome development. As Crisis Group has previously argued, the formation of a new government and the separation of its duties from that of the Presidency Council offer a plausible way out of the current deadlock in the implementation of the LPA. Such an outcome also requires the backing of a wider array of actors who make up Libya's fragmented political and military landscape.

To make progress on any new roadmap, however, UN envoy Salame will need to receive the full-throated support of the states that have been most involved in Libyan diplomacy: France, Russia, the UK and the U.S. among permanent members of the Security Council; Libya's neighbours, including Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia and Italy; regional powers further afield such as Qatar and Turkey; and regional institutions such as the European Union (EU), the League of Arab States and the African Union. The diplomatic vacuum of the last year resulted in too many competing initiatives that have created confusion among Libyan factions, or were exploited by them. Greater international convergence is needed to restore the primacy of the UN as the show-runner of the Libyan peace process. Consultation with Salame also is essential to avoid undermining him. This includes consulting him on interventions aimed at countering people-smugglers in the Mediterranean or jihadist groups that, if unilaterally implemented, could damage his agenda. A political settlement is ultimately the best way to address the myriad of consequences stemming from the Libya's current instability.

Avoiding Arbitrary Deadlines

At a minimum, external actors should set common expectations for the coming period of renewed negotiations. The idea of 17 December 2017 (the two-year anniversary of the signing of the Skhirat Agreement) serving as an arbitrary deadline for the expiration of the institutional framework created by the LPA should firmly be put to rest. It would place undue pressure on efforts to restart meaningful peace negotiations, which will take time to get off the ground. The LPA, as Crisis Group argued in 2015, was rushed. The international community should not repeat that mistake.

The question of whether, and when, to hold elections is more complicated. Several Libyan and outside actors have called for new elections as soon as possible. So too did a 28 July communique issued after France hosted a meeting of the head of the Presidency Council, Faiez Serraj, and the head of the Libyan National Army, Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar. In theory, calls for new elections are sound. The institutional arrangements created by the LPA always were meant to be transitional, and Libyans should enjoy a chance to democratically appoint their leaders and the current status quo is nearing collapse. In practice, however, legal and political obstacles are likely to obstruct holding them soon.

Without some sort of preliminary agreement that has relatively broad buy-in, elections are likely to set back efforts to reach a settlement. The areas of disagreement among the various camps are fundamental and include the basic contours of a new regime: should Libya be a monarchy or republic; should it be a federation or centralised; should elections be parliamentary, presidential, or both; what electoral law should apply; as well as who, and particularly whether Qadhafi-era officials, can run. If today's belligerents cannot agree on whether elections should be held and what they should be for, what hope is there that they can produce a viable solution?

The better course is to agree on a transitional arrangement before elections. Those who advocate holding them quickly hope they can create a new legitimacy through the ballot box. Yet, the current Libyan conflict in part is due to the adoption of this logic to push for the June 2014 elections, which immediately were contested (through legal and military means) by the losing camp and interpreted as a carte blanche by the winning camp. To avoid reproducing the same dynamics, the peace process should focus not on elections as an end-goal, but rather on ensuring their outcome is not seen as a zero-sum game.

Economics and Security

The UN is rightly focused on resetting the political process, retaking leadership over negotiations to modify the LPA to allow for its implementation. This is its prime mission. But, given the reality that achieving progress likely will take time, there is also a need to advance on two issues of immediate importance: addressing Libya's economic situation and launching a security track. Given the UN's limited resources, it cannot do so without the support of key regional and international actors.

In his 28 August address to the Security Council, Salame rightly put the spotlight on Libya's economic situation, arguing that unless "economic challenges are addressed, and soon, the humanitarian crisis in Libya will deepen". Such challenges include: healing the rift between rival branches of key economic institutions such as the Central Bank of Libya and National Oil Corporation and ensuring they operate effectively; improving the quality of governance, including relations between the Central Bank and the government; resolving the liquidity crisis faced by Libyan banks; and confronting rampant economic predation. Some of this will necessitate outside economic expertise and guidance, whether from states or international financial institutions, and greater collaboration by concerned actors. In the case of fuel-smuggling, for instance, Libya's neighbours need to coordinate with those who have the capacity to confront land and sea-based smugglers.

Since the beginning of the UN's efforts in 2015, the peace negotiations' security track has never taken off. The UN's current security-related mission is focused on making Tripoli safe for both the Presidency Council and the impending return of UN staff. At a minimum, this should be broadened to include establishing a dialogue among security actors in various parts of the country, starting at the local level (for instance, in southern Libya) and ultimately widening this nationwide. This is a necessary complement to a political dialogue, particularly as security issues - including leadership of security institutions - lie at the heart of disagreements over the LPA. Importantly, this also will make possible broadening negotiations beyond the international community's four main interlocutors: Serraj (a political actor with no military base), Haftar (an important military actor with political ambitions), President of the House of Representatives Agheela Saleh (a political actor with local military backing in the east) and President of the State Council Abdelrahman Swehli (a political actor with some influence among military groups in the west). Broader talks can also bring in a range of political-military actors with national and local-level influence, but no institutional perch.

A related matter is that of the political and military support many international actors have given to various sides of the conflict. In the case of military backing, this happens in flagrant violation of the UN-imposed arms embargo, as revealed by the June 2017 report of the UN Panel of Experts on Libya. While violations exist on all sides, the report highlighted particularly egregious ones in support of Haftar's faction. Such actions have a track record of making him reluctant to compromise. Egypt, France, Russia and the United Arab Emirates, which have the greatest influence over Haftar and are most active in engaging him, should ensure that he is fully incentivised to collaborate with Mr Salame's efforts.

Altogether, this amounts to a tall order for the new special envoy who will need to find the right sequencing for a political process and balance the sometimes-contradictory interests of Libyans and external actors alike. His task is hard enough - and will be made infinitely harder if he does not enjoy the political backing and resources of a more united and effective international community.

European policymakers increasingly are looking at the Fezzan, Libya's vast and scarcely populated south west, as their frontier against sub-Saharan African migrants and refugees traveling the Central Mediterranean route to Europe. In 2016, over 160,000 took this route from Libya on makeshift boats; most had entered through this region, which connects the country's southern border with its coast. Several European countries, chiefly Italy, hope that stabilising the situation in the Fezzan and reviving its economy will help curb migrant flows. The idea has merit, but this will be no easy task and cannot succeed without also addressing the broader crises gripping the country. Any European effort to address governance, economic and security problems in the Fezzan should be coordinated with the internationally recognised government and linked to wider, nationwide initiatives to tackle issues that plague the country as a whole.

The Fezzan suffers from multiple problems, most of which are not of its own making. The region's licit economy is depressed, but the national economic and financial institutions that could help revive it are largely paralysed. By contrast, the illicit economy is booming. The Fezzan sits at a regional crossroads, linking southern Libya to the Sahel and sub-Saharan migrant routes to northern Libya and onto Europe.

While the region is richly endowed with natural resources, it suffers from the absence of a central authority able to impose order. Incentives for smuggling of all types - people, oil, gold, weapons, drugs - far outstrip those for making money through legal means. Ethnic and tribal tensions, magnified by the political vacuum and economic competition, have been exploited by rival factions competing to control the country. External forces - regional powers, foreign mercenaries and transnational jihadist groups - have also meddled, joining local conflicts or using the south as a transit zone. Stabilising the Fezzan in the midst of such a storm will be difficult, but it has been neglected far too long, to the detriment of its residents, its neighbours and Europe alike.

The ongoing fight between Libya's rival military coalitions is perhaps the biggest challenge. The UN-backed Presidency Council and its Government of National Accord (GNA), headed by Prime Minister Faiez Serraj in Tripoli, has little standing and few local allies in the Fezzan. By contrast, factions aligned with General Khalifa Haftar's Libyan National Army (LNA) and the eastern government based in al-Bayda enjoy greater influence, as do factions that oppose both Haftar and Serraj. Deadly fighting between these various forces has increased since early 2017 and covert foreign military support to them seems likely to rise. The spread of these national rivalries into the south has been accelerated by tensions among tribes, which have fought five successive local wars since 2011. Despite ceasefires, the risk of further escalation remains high, in part because of the failure to deliver material compensation promised during past negotiations as well as delays implementing reconstruction plans.

Stabilising the Fezzan is urgent, and not just to constrain migration. Without addressing the governance, economic and security issues in the south, Libya's broader political and military normalisation will be impossible. While this requires long-term investments, Libyan authorities and European governments can take immediate steps to smooth relations among southern tribes and improve living conditions - measures that, in due course, could reduce the incentive for people smuggling. For instance, foreign donors could work with Libya's recognised government to energise agricultural projects in the south that have fallen into disrepair. Oil companies operating in the Fezzan and Libya's National Oil Corporation (NOC) also have their share of responsibility; they should seek to increase local employment and invest more in local social development projects.

A more inclusive dialogue focusing on security is also needed. Efforts to gather representatives of different communities around a table to date have included mainly tribal leaders and civil society activists. That is not enough. Talks should include military commanders and the leaders of local armed groups in a first step toward a nationwide security dialogue. As elsewhere in Libya, the question of how to structure and staff legitimate and genuinely national security forces, from army to police to border guards, is central.

Some outsiders, especially some European states, might be tempted to circumvent such a dialogue in search of a quicker military solution. That would be ill-advised: any attempt to impose a solution through military force alone would likely fuel further instability. In particular, recruiting local strongmen or cultivating alliances with specific militias risks exacerbating pre-existing conflicts. Moreover, the enormous profits derived from the black market almost certainly would surpass whatever cash outsiders can dole out to purchase loyalty.

Finally, none of these steps will have lasting effect unless and until there is greater alignment among international stakeholders. Within Europe, this requires greater cooperation between France and Italy, the two EU countries that, each for its own reasons, are focused on the Fezzan. Similarly, the EU, the U.S. and other countries should seek to lower tensions among Gulf Arab states or at least limit their impact on Libya at a time when Egypt and the United Arab Emirates are backing Haftar while Qatar and Turkey support his rivals.

Overall, Libya's neighbours, regional leaders further afield and international powers should make greater efforts to converge on a shared set of principles to address a Libyan peace process that is increasingly adrift, rather than narrowly prioritise their immediate interests. In the Fezzan as elsewhere in Libya, this would serve at least to avoid worsening an already bad situation and provide guidelines for restoring some semblance of a state - a goal that ultimately all should see as being in the country's, as well as the region's, best interests.

Brussels/Tripoli/Sebha, 31 July 2017
UN: Myanmar Rohingya exodus exposes abject failure of world leaders to deliver solution to refugee crisis

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 18 September 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, UN: Myanmar Rohingya exodus exposes abject failure of world leaders to deliver solution to refugee crisis, 18 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfbdd14.html [accessed 14 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

More Rohingya refugees have fled to Bangladesh in the space of three weeks than the total number of refugees who fled by sea to Europe in 2016

Worldwide situation goes from bad to worse as rich countries fail to do their part in addressing the refugee crisis, leaving poorer countries to pick up the pieces

As almost 400,000 refugees flee ethnic cleansing in Myanmar, world leaders meeting at the UN General Assembly should hang their heads in shame that they have not only failed to make good on their promises to take in more refugees, but have actively dismantled refugee rights in many parts of the world.

A year on from the Leaders' Summit on Refugees in New York, where leaders pledged to take in more refugees and help vulnerable people forced to flee their countries, global refugee numbers are increasing year on year as conflicts spiral out of control.

"The horrific situation in Myanmar is exactly why we need more than just a sticking-plaster approach to helping those fleeing war and persecution. After being subjected to horrific violence, including killings and having their villages burned to the ground, these Rohingya refugees are now facing a humanitarian crisis as Bangladesh struggles to support them," said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International's Secretary General.

The latest evidence published by Amnesty International points to a mass-scale scorched-earth campaign across northern Rakhine State, where Myanmar security forces and vigilante mobs are burning down entire Rohingya villages and shooting people at random as they try to flee. In legal terms, these are crimes against humanity - systematic attacks and forcible deportation of civilians.

As a consequence, in the space of less than three weeks, almost 400,000 Rohingya refugees have fled Myanmar to Bangladesh. This is more than the total number of refugees who came to Europe by sea in 2016.

"Poor and low-income countries such as Bangladesh, Uganda and Lebanon are left struggling to deal with huge numbers of refugees, when rich countries who host far fewer should be stepping up to provide aid and resettlement places. Leaders of rich countries prefer to pretend the problem does not exist. What will it take for governments to wake up to the reality that their response to the global refugee crisis is totally broken?" said Salil Shetty.

Government failures go from bad to worse

At last year's Summit on Refugees, convened by former US President Barack Obama, governments pledged to take in more than 360,000 refugees - doubling the number of places offered in 2015.

While these pledges represented an increase, they were based on the whim of governments rather than on the needs of the people they were purporting to help.

Since the Leaders' Summit, many governments have not only failed to meaningfully address the growing refugee crisis, but have outdone each other in trying to dismantle refugee rights and have failed to respond to new crises around the world.

One prominent example is the USA, which under President Trump is now reversing Obama's pledge to take in 110,000 people in 2017 and instead capping the numbers at 50,000, and potentially taking in even fewer refugees in 2018.

"The USA's policy towards refugees has to be viewed in a global context. In the shadow of Trump's cruel policies, other countries around the world have continued to dehumanize refugees and turn their backs on them," said Salil Shetty.

"Whether it's the EU condemning refugees to abuse and exploitation at the hands of criminal gangs in Libya, or Australia subjecting refugees to severe physical and psychological damage in its offshore detention centers, rich countries have contributed substantially to the alarming deterioration of refugee rights.

"It is against this backdrop of governments' callous treatment of people fleeing conflict and violence that the world's fastest growing refugee crisis is unfolding before our eyes in Bangladesh."

World leaders gathering in New York for this year's UN General Assembly are expected to discuss the spiraling situation in Myanmar's Rakhine State, from where the long-persecuted Rohingya population have been forced to flee because of an unlawful and totally disproportionate military response to attacks by a Rohingya armed group.

"Instead of attending summits to shake hands with each other and make promises they don't intend to keep, heads of state should show some leadership," said Salil Shetty. "That means delivering a comprehensive plan to protect civilians in conflict, ending crimes against humanity and implementing proper solutions for refugees such as the Rohingya who are in a desperate situation.

"In case they have forgotten, this is what the United Nations is for."

STATISTICS

As of 12 September, some 379,000 refugees, the vast majority of who are Rohingya, had fled Myanmar to Bangladesh since violence broke out on August 25.

In 2016, the UNHCR registered 362,000 sea arrivals of refugees to Europe.

There are now more than 22.5 million refugees worldwide. However only a small fraction of this population who are acutely vulnerable - for example those who have been raped or tortured - need resettlement in a third country. This year that figure is estimated to be over 1.19 million, which is just 0.02% of the world's population.

In 2016 only 189,300 refugees were offered resettlement places, a tiny fraction of those in desperate need.

US President Barack Obama's Leaders' Summit on Refugees took place in New York on 20 September, 2016.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Peacebuilding efforts needed to tackle Boko Haram, end Lake Chad Basin crisis, Security Council told

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 13 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Peacebuilding efforts needed to tackle Boko Haram, end Lake Chad Basin crisis, Security Council told, 13 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfc84e4.html [accessed 14 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.

While the efforts of the Governments in Africa's Lake Chad Basin have diminished Boko Haram's combat capacity in the region, the terrorist group has changed its tactics, increasing the use of suicide attacks, the top United Nations political official reported to the Security Council today.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman said the coordinated efforts among the region's Governments, including through the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) had without question yielded encouraging progress in the fight against Boko Haram.

Unfortunately, the fight is far from over, he said, noting that the group had shifted its tactics in the wake of these efforts, and some 130 attacks attributed to Boko Haram in the four affected countries  Nigeria, followed by Cameroon, Niger and Chad  in June and July resulted in 284 civilian fatalities, a significant increase compared to 146 attacks and 107 civilian fatalities in April and May.

At the political level, he said that the UN Special Representatives for Central and West Africa and the Sahel proposed a regional strategy to address the root causes of the Lake Chad Basin crisis, which would be based on ownership by the countries and subregional organizations concerned: the Economic Community for Central African States (ECOWAS) and the Lake Chad Basin Commission.

On the development front, Mr. Feltman noted that the current crisis has wreaked havoc on basic infrastructure, as well as government resources and services. Indeed, insecurity has sparked large-scale unemployment and left one million school-age children deprived of education. The substantial economic impact of the crisis has reached nearly $9 billion across north-east Nigeria alone.

Poverty, weak state authority, insecurity and climate change explain this situation, with women and girls being the first victims, he said, also noting that conflicts along with all this displacement has eroded, or even broken, intercommunity and intra-community ties. And without robust efforts in peacebuilding, the reintegration of ex-combatants, including Boko Haram and vigilante groups, could create additional tensions.

Meanwhile, humanitarian needs are staggering, with 10.7 million people in the region requiring assistance, Mr. Feltman stated, noting that the bulk of burden is in Nigeria's north-east. Yet, funding continues to be insufficient, as the appeal for the region, $1.5 billion in 2017, is only funded at 40 per cent.

He went on to raise concerns about the human rights situation, noting the continued violations by Boko Haram, including killings, forceful use of children as suicide bombers and sexual and gender-based violence against women and children. Perpetrators must be brought to justice.

The UN has also received numerous allegations of serious human rights violations committed in the context of counter-terrorism operations, he said, stressing that the Organization continues to advocate strongly with the MNJTF to put forward a clear strategy to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse, including by recruiting a dedicated gender adviser within its civilian component.

While the efforts of the Joint Multinational Force remain essential in resolving the crises, Mr. Feltman said the financial investment of the Joint Multinational Force was a major burden on national budgets for development. That is why support from the UN and its Member States is needed more than ever.

The complex and increasingly protracted nature of the Lake Chad Basin crisis calls for innovative and integrated solutions that bridge traditional divides between humanitarian and development strategies, he said, noting that a special event scheduled for 21 September in the margins of the UN General Assembly's annual general debate would be an opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its support for the region.
Somalia facing complex immediate and long-term challenges, UN Security Council told

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 13 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Somalia facing complex immediate and long-term challenges, UN Security Council told, 13 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfc8b34.html [accessed 14 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.

Highlighting complex immediate and long-term challenges in Somalia, the head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in the country (UNSOM) called for practical support, as well as political encouragement to the Somali leadership, both at the Federal and the state levels.

The worst of the famine threat has been averted [but] damage to lives and livelihoods, particularly women, children and marginalised groups, has been extensive, said Michael Keating, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, briefing the Security Council.

An imperative for Somalis is to escape the vicious cycle of recurring weather-related shocks, he added.

Another pressing issue before the country, Mr. Keating said, is of political problems becoming complicated by ill-defined relationships between various branches of the State, and in such a situation, the Federal Government's management of the situation to prevent them from threatening progress on core objectives and the stability of the state was crucial.

In that context, he highlighted that the working relationship between the President and the Prime Minister as well as the determination of the federal Government to deliver tangible economic and security benefits for the population is very encouraging.

He also highlighted progress on preparing and passing important laws, such as the Telecommunications Bill and the Human Rights Commission Act, and said that completing the constitutional review was a critical task for the successful holding of elections in 2020-2021.

The legislative framework and agreement on the electoral model are urgently needed, he said, adding that these would help dispel scepticism on whether Somalia can move away from the so-called 4.5 model to universal suffrage.

Realizing vast economic potential depends on addressing political issues

Highlighting the country's economic potential in sectors ranging from agribusiness, livestock, fisheries, trade to renewable and other energy sources, Mr. Keating stressed that realizing the potential is contingent upon success in reaching a political settlement between the Government and the private sector, as well as on Government policies and capacities to implement them.

A critical requirement will be raising revenues, whether from domestic sources or by accessing concessional finance, he said, noting the Prime Minister's appeal for immediate budget support to allow the Government to deliver on jobs and security, and to strengthen relations with Federal Member States by means of fiscal transfers.

The UN envoy also informed the Security Council of the UN-World Bank collaboration to devise a surge support package for public works, and urged partners to follow the European Union (EU), Norway and Sweden's lead to use Recurrent Cost and Reform Financing Facility to that end.

Mogadishu is safer, but larger security situation volatile

Further in his briefing, Mr. Keating noted security improvements in the capital, Mogadishu, but added that the Al-Shabaab terrorist groups continues remains a potent threat that the overall security situation in Somalia remains volatile.

Addressing insecurity and the continuing threat from Al-Shabaab requires vigorous implementation of the National Security Architecture Agreement and of the Comprehensive Approach to Security, he said, noting that international partners have started working on its components.

He also underscored the need to ensure predictable funding for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) given that it continues to play an indispensable role in protecting Somali progress and people and as national security forces are not yet ready to shoulder full responsibilities.

At the same time, Mr. Keating added, support should also continue for the Somali security forces to strengthen their capacity.

Concluding his briefing, he informed that the UN is working with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union, the European Union (EU) and other partners to strengthen national conflict resolution capacities as well as to facilitate agreements in specific locations.
UN-supported campaign to immunize 150,000 Rohingya children against deadly diseases

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 17 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN-supported campaign to immunize 150,000 Rohingya children against deadly diseases, 17 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfca704.html [accessed 14 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 thousands of Rohingya refugees  including many children  having fled violence in Myanmar continue to arrive in Bangladesh, a United Nations-supported vaccination campaign has been initiated to prevent the spread of potentially deadly diseases.

According to a news release by the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), the agency and the UN World Health Organization (WHO) are supporting the Bangladeshi Ministry of Health-led campaign targeting measles, rubella and polio to inoculate some 150,000 Rohingya children below the age of fifteen in 68 refugee settlements near the country's border with Myanmar.

We are happy that we were able to initiate the immunization campaign so quickly to protect the population from a possible measles outbreak said Navaratnasamy Paranietharan, the head of WHO in Bangladesh.

The seven-day campaign was planned by the UN health agency, which is also managing and monitoring its field implementation. UNICEF has provided vaccines, syringes and Vitamin A capsules.

Measles is a very infectious and dangerous disease during emergencies, especially for children who are already weak and malnourished, added Edouard Beigbeder, the head of UNICEF in Bangladesh.

With thousands of children crossing the border every day, vaccination is crucial to prevent the spread of potentially deadly diseases.

RELATED: Rohingya crisis one of the fastest growing in recent years, warns UN refugee agency

In addition to the vaccination campaign, the two UN agencies are also helping the Government reinforce maternal, new-born, child and adolescent health services; renovate delivery and new-born care units; improve water, sanitation and hygiene in health facilities; and strengthen disease surveillance, early warning and health-related information systems.

According to estimates, more than 410,000 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Bangladesh since August 25, with children making up about 60 per cent of that number.
UN refugee agency 'shocked' by killings in eastern DR Congo

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN refugee agency 'shocked' by killings in eastern DR Congo, 16 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcaf94.html [accessed 14 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.

Expressing shock and sadness over the violent death of numerous Burundian nationals  among them likely refugees and asylum seekers  in Kamanyola town, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the United Nations refugee agency called for an investigation into the incident.

According to initial reports more than 30 have been killed and over100 injured, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said in a news release today.

The precise circumstances are not yet clear [but] reports indicate that in the course of a confrontation with Burundian demonstrators, Congolese security forces opened fire on the crowd, the UN agency added.

The town hosts some 2,005 refugees and asylum seekers from Burundi, most of whom arrived in 2015. There are a total of 43,769 Burundian refugees living in DRC.

The news release also noted that UNHCR and its partners have sent teams to Kamanyola, including medical staff, to treat the injured.
Fresh violence in Central African Republic leads to more displaced  UN agency

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 15 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Fresh violence in Central African Republic leads to more displaced  UN agency, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcb844.html [accessed 14 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.

Expressing concern over continued violence in the Central African Republic and the resulting "massive new levels" of displacement, the United Nations refugee agency has underscored the need to ensure that relief workers are not made targets of hostilities and are given the humanitarian security they need to carry out their mission.

"Since May, fresh and fierce clashes between armed groups in the CAR have wrought increasing suffering, deaths and destruction of property," said Andrej Mahecic, a spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

"Many newly displaced people speak of having witnessed killings, robberies, lootings and kidnappings. Even after reaching safe locations, they often risk assault by armed groups, if they venture outside," he added.

According to the UN agency, the crisis, well into its fourth year, has left one in every two Central African in need of humanitarian assistance or protection to survive and, if left to fester, the violence could negate the progress towards recovery in the country.

The violence has also driven over half a million people from CAR to seek refuge in neighbouring countries and displaced an additional 600,000 people within the country.

The level of insecurity has also prevented UNHCR and other relief organizations to fully assess the full extent of damage or displacement from the recent violence.

"Some of our planned humanitarian deliveries by air have also been delayed or blocked, due to the armed groups' presence [and] aid agencies, including UNHCR, are increasingly among those targeted by armed groups and have, in some instances, been compelled to temporary withdraw their personnel," said Mr. Mahecic.

"Despite the challenges, we continue to help those displaced in areas like the Haute-Kotto provincial capital of Bria, which was at the centre of much of the displacement in the east," he added, noting that the UN agency's response is struggling due to lack of resources.

Earlier this year, UNCHR issued an appeal for $209 million for its operations within the country as well as to assist refugees from the Central African Republic in neighbouring countries. However, only 9 per cent of the appeal has been funded thus far.
Rohingya crisis one of the fastest growing in recent years, warns UN refugee agency

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 15 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Rohingya crisis one of the fastest growing in recent years, warns UN refugee agency, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcc114.html [accessed 14 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 humanitarian situation in parts of Bangladesh sheltering hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees continues to deteriorate, making the crisis one of the fastest growing refugee crises of recent years, according to the United Nations.

"[The crisis is] creating enormous humanitarian needs in an area of Bangladesh already affected by earlier refugee influxes, recent floods and not equipped to cope with large numbers of new arrivals," Andrej Mahecic, a spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told journalists at a media briefing in Geneva today.

According to estimates, some 380,000 Rohingya refugees, fleeing violence in Myanmar, have crossed the border into Bangladesh since 25 August.

"A visit to the area this week by a UNHCR team, led by Assistant High Commissioner for Operations George Okoth-Obbo, found people suffering real hardship and some of the most difficult conditions seen in any current refugee situation," said Mr. Mahecic.

Refugees continue to arrive daily outside of the two established camps which are already substantially overflowing, and many people have received little meaningful help to date, he added.

The UN agency has been responding to the situation and assisting those coming but its in-country stocks have been exhausted, noted the UNHCR spokesperson, adding that deliveries of more aid - flown in earlier this week - are currently underway.

Children worst affected

Challenges, however, are the greatest for children. According to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), there are at least 240,000 children among the refugees, including about 36,000 who are less than a year old. There were also 52,000 pregnant and lactating women.

"Conditions are ripe for the spread of disease," Marixie Mercado, a UNICEF spokesperson highlighted at the briefing, noting that refuges have little protection from the elements and lack drinking water.

"There is nowhere near enough latrines, and extreme mosquito activity has been forecast for the coming days. It is important to note that even before the crisis, half of the children in Rakhine state [in Myanmar] had suffered from chronic malnutrition, meaning they were vulnerable to disease," she said.

To help cope with this situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) is stepping up its efforts, and starting 16 September, will launch a polio and measles vaccination campaign to cover 150,000 newly arrived children aged 6 months to 15 years old, said Tarik Jasarevic, a spokesperson for the UN agency.

"In the coming days, [we will also] distribute emergency medical kits to cover 100,000 people, 2 million water purification tablets and cholera kits for 20,000 people," he added, noting that the UN health agency is also supporting the Government of Bangladesh in providing medical teams to new spontaneous settlements.

The World Food Programme (WFP), the UN's emergency food assistance agency, has also upped its response, delivering high-energy food bars, and together with partners, hot food and rice for cooking to tens of thousands of refugees.

'Remarkable generosity' of Bangladeshi communities

Mr. Mahecic also noted that Bangladeshi communities have shown "remarkable generosity," welcoming refugees into their homes and sharing resources with them.

However, as the number of new arrivals continues, UN agencies are in urgent need of additional funds to provide protection and life-saving assistance.

Among them, UNHCR has appealed for an initial amount of $30 million for its emergency response in the country until the end of year.

Similarly, UNICEF made an initial appeal for $7.3 million over three months, including almost $3 million for water and sanitation alone, but that amount was calculated on the basis of 200,000 people and that number had now doubled.
UN chief condemns deadly terrorist attack in southern Iraq

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 15 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN chief condemns deadly terrorist attack in southern Iraq, 15 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcc664.html [accessed 14 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.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today condemned the terrorist attacks in southern Iraq and called for the perpetrators to be quickly brought to justice.

In a statement from his spokesperson, the Secretary-General expressed "his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Iraq."

Terrorists attacked the Thi-Qar province on 14 September, reportedly killing or wounding dozens of people.

In the statement, Mr. Guterres reiterated UN support to the Government and people of Iraq in fighting terrorism and violent extremism.
Security Council approves mandate, operations and size of UN Verification Mission in Colombia

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 14 September 2017 Related Document(s) Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia Cite as UN News Service, Security Council approves mandate, operations and size of UN Verification Mission in Colombia, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcd214.html [accessed 14 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 Security Council today approved the Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recommendations regarding the size, operational aspects and mandate of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia.

Unanimously adopting a new resolution, the Council welcomed the Secretary-General's recent report, which states that the Mission would begin its activities on 26 September.

Further to that report, the Mission will aim to consolidate the peace process and assist the parties in their efforts to ensure that full social, economic and political reintegration of former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People's Army (FARC-EP) members is achieved in the shortest time possible, and that the rural areas of the country hardest hit by the conflict can recover the peace and security to which their communities aspire.

The Verification Mission is expected to oversee the next phase of the 2016 peace agreement between the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP. The Council established the Verification Mission through the adoption of a resolution on 10 July, as a successor to the UN Mission in Colombia.

Read more on: Colombia: With arms laid down, focus now on reintegration  UN envoy

That Mission had been responsible for monitoring and verifying the laying down of arms by the FARC-EP and the bilateral ceasefire and cessation of hostilities between the Government and the FARC-EP. In November last year, the two sides signed a peace deal, ending a 50-year conflict.

In a briefing to the Security Council last week, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Colombia, Jean Arnault, said that as the Verification Mission prepares to begin its activities, he hoped that, with the Council's support, the new operation should be able to strengthen the country's confidence for a stable peace.

Over the past months, the peace process between the Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC-EP) has slowly but steadily tipped the scales in favour of hope, he said, noting that the formal transformation of the FARC-EP into a political party highlighted the momentous developments that have taken place in the country over the past year.
Arms proliferation continues in Darfur, but area remains largely calm, Security Council told

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Arms proliferation continues in Darfur, but area remains largely calm, Security Council told, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfce724.html [accessed 14 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 situation in Darfur has been largely calm in recent months, but there is continued violence fuelled by a proliferation of weapons and competition over natural resources, a senior United Nations official today told the Security Council.

Most of the insecurity currently experienced in Darfur can be attributed to the tensions originating from the underlying causes of the conflict, exacerbated by the proliferation of arms in the hands of civilians and militia groups, said Jeremiah Mamabolo, Special Representative and Head of the African Union-UN Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID).

Inter-communal disputes usually triggered by competition over land, water, livestock and mineral resources, have become increasingly violent due to the availability of weapons, added Mr. Mamabolo.

The Government is carrying out an arms control campaign but reactions to the arms collection campaign vary, according to Mr. Mamabolo, who noted that the opposition and groups who did not sign the peace agreement are opposed to it.

Briefing the 15-member Council in New York on quarterly developments in the region of Sudan, Mr. Mamabolo noted progress on the implementation of the peace agreement is limited.

That agreement was signed in 2012 by the Government of Sudan and the Liberation and Justice Movement (LJM), based on the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur (DDPD), which calls for a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive peace agreement to end the fighting.

Progress is particularly limited on issues such as durable solutions to displacement, the administration of land, water, and other scarce resources, and the issue of armed militias, Mr. Mamabolo said.

He also noted that efforts on an inclusive peace agreement by the AU High-level Implementation Panel (AUHIP), with support of UNAMID, remain inconclusive due to a stalemate between the Government and one of the parties.

We call upon the Council and those with influence on the parties to stress the importance of a political settlement and desist from bringing more suffering to the very people that they profess to represent, said Mr. Mamabolo.

Among other issues raised, Mr. Mamabolo said that cooperation between the UN and the Government of Sudan has noticeably improved with a more open humanitarian environment and faster approval of movements within Darfur and clearance of visas, except for human rights staff.
Security Council approves one-year extension of UN political mission in Libya

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Security Council approves one-year extension of UN political mission in Libya, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcef64.html [accessed 14 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 Security Council today extended for one year the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), focused on supporting the North African country's political process and key national institutions, as well as coordination of international assistance.

Unanimously adopting a new resolution, the Council extended UNSMIL's mandate through 15 September 2018, during which time it would exercise mediation and 'good offices' to support an inclusive political process within the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement; continued implementation of the Agreement; and consolidation of the governance, security and economic arrangements of the Government of National Accord (GNA), among others.

The Council further decided that UNSMIL, within operational and security constraints, should undertake, among others, support to key Libyan institutions; human rights monitoring and reporting; support for securing uncontrolled arms and related materiel and countering their spread; and coordination of international assistance, and provision of advice and assistance to GNA-led efforts to stabilize post-conflict zones, including those liberated from Da'esh (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, or ISIL).

Emphasizing the importance of continued inclusiveness, the Council also strongly encouraged the GNA to engage with all parties in support of reconciliation and to enhance political outreach throughout Libya, and urged all parties and institutions in Libya to engage constructively with the Libyan Political Agreement in good faith and with sustained political will.
Back from Wau, UN South Sudan envoy says security improved, people returning home

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Back from Wau, UN South Sudan envoy says security improved, people returning home, 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfcf854.html [accessed 14 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 security situation north-western South Sudan has improved with displaced people returning home, the head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the African country has said, holding he situation in Wau as a model for other parts of the country where displacement rose so far this year.

I am pleased to see that the local authorities, the police and National Security have worked to improve the security environment, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to South Sudan, David Shearer, said while visiting Wau.

This collaboration could represent a new model for the return of displaced people, he said.

It is important that people return to their homes voluntarily, Mr. Shearer added, and for that to happen they need to feel safe and confident about their future.

The number of displaced people living in the UNMISS Protection of Civilians (POC) site has fallen from 38,000 to 32,500 over the last two months, he noted, adding that many of those people have returned home to cultivate their land.

Tens of thousands of people fled violence in April amid revenge attacks between the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) and the SPLA-In Opposition fighters.

Speaking to reporters earlier today in Juba, Mr. Shearer credited more active patrolling by National Security and the police in Wau for helping to stabilize the area.

He called for continued work on security, including through UNMISS patrols, so that humanitarian services can be strengthened closer to people's homes and not just near the POCs, but lauded the safety sites for saving lives.

The POC sites were originally created because there was a need, and I'm convinced that we have saved thousands, if not tens of thousands of lives, by providing that sanctuary, said Mr. Shearer.

About 213,000 of people are still sheltering at UNMISS Protection of Civilians sites across the country.

We know that the vast majority of those people want to return home, Mr. Shearer said, so UNMISS and our humanitarian partners are always looking at opportunities to support their voluntary return.

Mr. Shearer said that the number of people displaced in South Sudan rose to nearly four million during the first half of this year.

That figure includes 1.9 million who have been internally displaced and two million who fled to neighbouring countries  one million in Uganda alone, he told journalists, noting insecurity in Jonglei and Upper Nile, and the Equatorias.

The UN and its humanitarian partners have appealed for $1.64 billion to provide food, health care and education to help many of the 7.6 million estimated people in need in the country. So far, some 66 per cent of the budget is funded.
UNICEF scales-up relief for Rohingya facing critical 'shortages of everything'

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 14 September 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UNICEF scales-up relief for Rohingya facing critical 'shortages of everything', 14 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfd00a4.html [accessed 14 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.

Amid an acute shortage of humanitarian supplies for the thousands of Rohingya arriving every day in Bangladesh, having fled violence in Myanmar, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is undertaking a massive scale-up of its emergency operations to ensure that those most vulnerable are not endangered further.

Up to 400,000 Rohingyas have been sheltering in Bangladesh since violence erupted across the border in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state in end-August and, according to preliminary estimates, about 60 per cent of them are children.

There are acute shortages of everything, most critically shelter, food and clean water, said Edouard Beigbeder, the head of UNICEF in Bangladesh.

Conditions on the ground place children at high risk of water-borne disease. We have a monumental task ahead of us to protect these extremely vulnerable children.

In its response, the UN agency has been dispatching trucks filled with emergency water, sanitation and hygiene supplies to Cox's Bazar (located near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border), with a steady stream of supplies in the pipeline for the coming days and weeks.

Supplies include detergent powder, soap, and pitchers and jugs for storing water, along with nappies, sanitary napkins, towels and sandals.

UNICEF is also supporting the Department of Public Health Engineering with water treatment plants and carriers, and is working with partners on the ground to install and rehabilitate tube wells.

These items are part of a first wave of supplies that will massively scale-up our emergency response to the growing number of Rohingya children in Bangladesh, Mr. Beigbeder added, noting that UNICEF has appealed for $7.3 million to provide emergency support to Rohingya children over the next four months.

Yesterday, speaking at a press conference, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call on Myanmar authorities to suspend military action, end the violence and recognize the right of return of all those who had to leave the country.

He also underscored his call for an effective action plan to address the root causes of the situation, which he said had been left to fester for decades and has now escalated beyond Myanmar's borders, destabilizing the region.
Egypt: Irish national acquitted, hundreds sentenced following grossly unfair mass trial

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 18 September 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Egypt: Irish national acquitted, hundreds sentenced following grossly unfair mass trial, 18 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfdb4c4.html [accessed 14 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 acquittal of Irish national Ibrahim Halawa by a Cairo criminal court today, after a grossly unfair mass trial involving 494 defendants, brings his four year ordeal to an end said Amnesty International, emphasizing the need for 442 other defendants in the case, who were sentenced to between five years and life imprisonment, to be re-tried in line with international due process standards or released.

Ibrahim Halawa was arrested aged 17 along with more than 330 others during protests which erupted into violence on 16 and 17 August 2013 around al-Fath Mosque in Cairo when at least 97 protesters were killed. There is no evidence that Ibrahim Halawa was involved in the violence and Amnesty International believes he was detained solely for peacefully exercising his rights to freedom of expression and assembly.

"Today's acquittal of Ibrahim Halawa after four years in unlawful detention comes as a welcome relief but is long overdue. He is a prisoner of conscience who should never have been detained in the first place," said Najia Bounaim, North Africa Research Director at Amnesty International.

"Ibrahim Halawa's acquittal puts an end to the gross injustice in his case. However, it is utterly disgraceful that at the same time the Egyptian authorities have handed out heavy sentences to 442 others after sham proceedings in a mass trial that flouted the most basic standards of a fair trial, while security forces who used excessive and lethal force during protests that day have escaped unpunished."

Amnesty International is calling for any other defendants in the case who were detained and sentenced for peacefully exercising their legitimate rights to be immediately released.

The organization analysed the casefile and spoke to at least five lawyers working on the case. It found that the court had relied entirely on unsound reports by security forces and investigations conducted by the National Security Agency as a basis for the convictions.

According to an audio-visual evidence report sent by the Ministry of Interior to the court, out of the 330 defendants who have been detained in the case for more than four years, only two of the defendants appear to have evidence against them.

"This trial has been a cruel farce from start to finish. From relying on questionable testimonies to dismissing key evidence and depriving the defendants of the proper means of defending themselves, these proceedings expose the deep flaws in Egypt's notorious criminal justice system," said Najia Bounaim.

"All those convicted for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly must be released immediately. Those against whom there is sufficient admissible evidence should either be retried in fair proceedings that meet international fair trials standards and without the possibility of the death penalty or released."

The trial took place in a courtroom inside Wadi al-Natroun prison around 110Km North of Cairo. Lawyers told Amnesty International that during the trial defendants were held behind a glass screen prohibiting them from hearing the proceedings or being able to participate in the trial. Trying defendants inside a prison also undermines their presumption of innocence.

Background

The court today sentenced 43 defendants to life imprisonment (25 years under Egyptian law), 399 defendants were sentenced to between five and 15 years and 52 were acquitted including Ibrahim Halawa. The case involved 494 defendants among whom 333 were in detention. Those sentenced in absentia can appeal the verdict and be retried before the same court while those sentenced in their presence can appeal the decision before the court of Cassation.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Saudi Arabia: Arrest of two prominent activists a deadly blow for human rights

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 18 September 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Saudi Arabia: Arrest of two prominent activists a deadly blow for human rights, 18 September 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfdbf54.html [accessed 14 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 the arrest over the weekend of two prominent Saudi Arabian human rights defenders Abdulaziz al-Shubaily and Issa al-Hamid, both founding members of the Saudi Civil and Political Rights Association (ACPRA), Samah Hadid, Director of campaigns for Amnesty International in the Middle-East said:

"This is a dark time for freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. These two arrests have confirmed our fears that the new leadership under Mohamed bin Salman is determined to crush the Kingdom's human rights movement. Instead of engaging with activists over human rights reforms they are going after them one by one.

"Saudi Arabia's embattled human rights community has already suffered heavily at the hands of the authorities, and now with these latest arrests almost all the country's most prominent human rights defenders are now in prison on bogus terrorism-related charges. These peaceful activists should be applauded for their courage in standing up for human rights, not rounded up and locked up."

"Issa al-Hamid and Abdulaziz al-Shubaily are prisoners of conscience, the Saudi Arabian authorities must release them immediately and unconditionally."

The arrests come amidst an intensified crackdown over the past week with more than 20 prominent religious figures, writers, journalists, academics and activists detained in a wave of arrests targeting the last vestiges of freedom of expression in the Kingdom.

ACPRA is an independent human rights NGO that was set up in October 2009 and was shut down in 2013. It has long been a thorn in the side of the Saudi Arabian authorities as one of the only local organizations that have reported on human rights violations and helped families of detainees held without charge to bring cases against the Ministry of Interior.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Amnesty International Report 2016/17 - Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 22 February 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Amnesty International Report 2016/17 - Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, 22 February 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59bfdf8d4.html [accessed 14 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.

Israeli forces unlawfully killed Palestinian civilians, including children, in both Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT), and detained thousands of Palestinians from the OPT who opposed Israel's continuing military occupation, holding hundreds in administrative detention. Torture and other ill-treatment of detainees remained rife and was committed with impunity. The authorities continued to promote illegal settlements in the West Bank, including by attempting to retroactively "legalize" settlements built on private Palestinian land, and severely restricted Palestinians' freedom of movement, closing some areas after attacks by Palestinians on Israelis. Israeli forces continued to blockade the Gaza Strip, subjecting its population of 1.9 million to collective punishment, and to demolish homes of Palestinians in the West Bank and of Bedouin villagers in Israel's Negev/Naqab region, forcibly evicting residents. The authorities imprisoned conscientious objectors to military service and detained and deported thousands of asylum-seekers from Africa.

Background

Israeli-Palestinian relations remained tense. International efforts to revive negotiations failed, with Israel continuing to develop illegal settlements on territory it occupied. In December the UN Security Council passed a resolution calling on Israel to cease all settlement activities in the West Bank.

In June the government announced a reconciliation agreement between Israel and Turkey which saw the two countries restore diplomatic relations. Israel agreed to pay compensation to the families of Turkish citizens killed by Israeli forces when they intercepted the humanitarian aid ship Mavi Marmara in 2010.

In September the government of the USA agreed to increase its military aid to Israel to $3.8 billion annually for 10 years from 2019.

The year saw stabbing, car-ramming, shooting and other attacks by Palestinians on Israelis in the West Bank and in Israel. The attacks, mostly carried out by Palestinians unaffiliated to armed groups, killed 16 Israelis and one foreign national, mostly civilians. Israeli forces killed 110 Palestinians and two foreign nationals during the year. Some were killed unlawfully while posing no threat to life.

Palestinian armed groups in Gaza periodically fired indiscriminate rockets and mortars into Israel, without causing deaths or serious injuries. Israeli forces responded with air strikes and artillery fire, killing three Palestinian civilians, including two children, in Gaza.

Freedom of movement - Gaza blockade and West Bank restrictions

Israel's military blockade of the Gaza Strip entered its 10th year, continuing the collective punishment of Gaza's entire population. Israeli controls on the movement of people and goods into and from Gaza, combined with Egypt's almost total closure of the Rafah border crossing and funding shortages, damaged Gaza's economy and hindered post-conflict reconstruction. Some 51,000 people were still displaced from the 2014 war, and unexploded ordnance from that conflict continued to cause civilian deaths and injuries. The number of Palestinians leaving Gaza via the Erez Crossing declined during the year, as the Israeli authorities denied, delayed or revoked permits for businesspeople, staff of international organizations, and medical patients and their companions.

Israeli forces maintained a "buffer zone" inside Gaza's border with Israel and used live fire and other weapons against Palestinians who entered or approached it, killing four and wounding others. Israeli forces also fired at Palestinian fishermen in or near the "exclusion zone" that they maintained along Gaza's coastline.

In the West Bank, the Israeli authorities severely restricted the movement of Palestinians on a discriminatory basis, particularly around illegal Israeli settlements and near the fence/wall. In response to Palestinian attacks on Israelis, the military authorities imposed collective punishment, revoking permits of attackers' family members to work in Israel and closing off entire areas and villages.

Arbitrary arrests and detentions

The authorities detained or continued to imprison thousands of Palestinians from the OPT, holding most of them in prisons in Israel, in violation of international law. Many prisoners' families, particularly those in Gaza, were not permitted entry to Israel to visit their relatives in prison. The Israeli authorities continued to arrest hundreds of Palestinian children in the West Bank including East Jerusalem. Many were subjected to abuse by Israeli forces including beatings and threats.

The authorities held hundreds of Palestinians, including children, under renewable administrative detention orders based on information that they withheld from the detainees and their lawyers. The numbers held under such orders since October 2015 were the highest since 2007; more than 694 were held at the end of April 2016 (the last month for which reliable data was available). Some detainees undertook lengthy protest hunger strikes; Palestinian detainee Bilal Kayed remained on hunger strike for 71 days. He was released without charge in December. Anas Shadid and Ahmad Abu Farah ended their hunger strike on 22 December after 90 days without food.

Three Israeli Jews held as administrative detainees were released.

The authorities gave circus performer Mohammed Faisal Abu Sakha two additional six-month administrative detention orders in June and December, based on secret evidence. His first six-month detention order had been issued in December 2015.

Palestinians from the West Bank who were charged with protest-related and other offences faced unfair military trials, while Israeli civilian courts trying Palestinians from the Gaza Strip issued harsh sentences, even for minor offences.

Mohammed al-Halabi, a Gaza-based humanitarian worker, was denied access to his lawyer and interrogated intensively for three weeks after his arrest in June. He was charged in August with embezzling money from the charity World Vision and passing it to Hamas, the de facto administration in Gaza. World Vision said it had not seen any substantive evidence to support the charge.

Torture and other ill-treatment

Israeli soldiers, police and Israel Security Agency (ISA) officers subjected Palestinian detainees, including children, to torture and other ill-treatment with impunity, particularly on arrest and during interrogation. Reported methods included beatings, slapping, painful shackling, sleep deprivation, use of stress positions and threats. Although complaints alleging torture by ISA officers have been handled by the Ministry of Justice since 2014, and more than 1,000 had been filed since 2001, no criminal investigations were opened. Complaints that the Israeli police used torture or other ill-treatment against asylum-seekers and members of the Ethiopian community in Israel were also common.

The UN Committee against Torture conducted its fifth periodic review of Israel, criticizing continued reports of torture and other ill-treatment, impunity, and the authorities' failure to proscribe torture as a crime under the law. Israeli officials noted that legislation criminalizing torture was being drafted by the Ministry of Justice, but it was not put before the Knesset (parliament).

In September the High Court upheld a 2015 law allowing the authorities to force-feed hunger-striking detainees; the law was not used in 2016.

Unlawful killings

Israeli soldiers, police and security guards killed at least 98 Palestinians from the OPT in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem; eight in the Gaza Strip; and three in Israel. In addition, one Palestinian citizen of Israel, responsible for killing three Israelis in Tel Aviv on 1 January, was killed by Israeli police inside Israel. Most of those killed were shot while attacking Israelis or suspected of intending an attack. Some, including children, were shot when they were posing no immediate threat to others' lives and appeared to be victims of unlawful killings.

Extrajudicial executions

Some of those killed appeared to have been victims of extrajudicial executions. They included 16-year-old Mahmoud Shaalan, shot dead by Israeli soldiers at a Ramallah checkpoint in February; Mohammed Abu Khalaf, killed in February by Israeli border police in East Jerusalem; and Maram Abu Ismail and her 16-year-old brother Ibrahim, who were shot dead at Qalandia checkpoint in April by private contractors employed by the Israeli Ministry of Defence.

Excessive use of force

Israeli forces used excessive, sometimes lethal, force against Palestinian protesters in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, killing 22 and injuring thousands with rubber-coated metal bullets and live ammunition. Many protesters threw rocks or other projectiles but were posing no threat to the lives of well-protected Israeli soldiers when they were shot.

Freedoms of expression, association and assembly

The authorities used a range of measures to target human rights defenders, in both Israel and the OPT, who criticized Israel's continuing occupation of the Palestinian territories.

On 11 July the Knesset passed the so-called Transparency Law, which imposed new reporting requirements on organizations that receive more than 50% of their funding from foreign governments, almost all of which were human rights groups or other NGOs critical of the Israeli government.

Using military orders prohibiting unauthorized demonstrations in the West Bank, the authorities suppressed protests by Palestinians and arrested and prosecuted protesters and human rights defenders. Following the annual "Open Shuhada Street" protest in Hebron on 26 February, the authorities prosecuted Palestinian human rights defenders Issa Amro and Farid al-Atrash on charges that included participating in a march without a permit and entering a closed military zone. They were apparently prosecuted on account of their peaceful exercise of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Issa Amro also faced charges arising from his peaceful activism in previous years.

For months after he filmed the extrajudicial execution of Abed al-Fatah al-Sharif by an Israeli soldier on 24 March in Hebron, B'Tselem volunteer Imad Abu Shamsiyeh received death threats from Israelis in nearby illegal settlements. Police turned him away and threatened to arrest him when he sought to lodge a complaint in August.

Palestinians and foreign nationals assisting human rights NGOs such as Al-Haq with their work in connection with the ICC received death threats.

A number of prominent Israeli human rights organizations and their staff, including Breaking the Silence, B'Tselem and Amnesty International Israel, were targeted by a government campaign to undermine their work.

In May the authorities charged former nuclear whistle-blower and prisoner of conscience Mordechai Vanunu with breaching the severe and arbitrary restrictions the authorities have imposed on his rights to freedom of movement and expression. The case was still pending at the end of the year.

Housing rights - forced evictions and demolitions

In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the Israeli authorities demolished 1,089 homes and other structures built without Israeli permits, an unprecedentedly high number of demolitions, forcibly evicting more than 1,593 people. Permits remained virtually impossible for Palestinians to obtain. Many of the demolitions were in Bedouin and herding communities which the Israeli authorities planned to transfer against the residents' wishes. The authorities also collectively punished the families of Palestinians who carried out attacks on Israelis by demolishing or making uninhabitable 25 family homes, thereby forcibly evicting their inhabitants.

The authorities also demolished hundreds of Palestinian homes and other structures inside Israel that they said were built without permits, mostly in Bedouin villages in the Negev/Naqab region. Many of the villages were officially "unrecognized".

Impunity

More than two years after the end of the 2014 Gaza-Israel conflict, in which some 1,460 Palestinian civilians were killed, many in evidently unlawful attacks including war crimes, the Israeli authorities had indicted only three soldiers for looting and obstructing an investigation. In August the Military Advocate General announced the closure of investigations into 12 incidents, despite evidence that some should be investigated as war crimes. Israel's military investigations were not independent or impartial, and failed to deliver justice.

In a rare move, the Israeli military investigated, indicted and tried Elor Azaria, a soldier whose extrajudicial execution by shooting of a wounded Palestinian in Hebron was captured on film. The verdict in his case was expected to be delivered in January 2017. Most members of the Israeli forces who committed unlawful killings of Palestinians faced no repercussions. The Israeli army, Ministry of Justice and police also did not investigate, failed to investigate adequately, or closed investigations into cases of alleged unlawful killings of Palestinians by Israeli forces in both Israel and the OPT.

The authorities prosecuted several Jewish settlers for carrying out lethal attacks on Palestinians. In January, they charged two Israelis with committing an arson attack in July 2015 that killed three members of the Dawabsheh family, including a child aged 18 months. In May, a Jerusalem court sentenced Yosef Ben David to life imprisonment plus 20 years after convicting him of the abduction and murder of 16-year-old Palestinian Mohammed Abu Khdeir in July 2014.

The prosecutor of the ICC continued her preliminary examination of allegations of crimes under international law carried out by Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups since 13 June 2014. The Israeli government allowed an ICC delegation to visit Israel and the West Bank in October.

Violence against women and girls

There were new reports of violence against women, particularly within Palestinian communities in Israel. Activists reported that at least 21 women were killed by partners or family members during the year. Some women were reportedly killed by abusive partners after police failed to afford them adequate protection.

Refugees and asylum-seekers

The authorities continued to deny asylum-seekers, more than 90% of whom were from Eritrea or Sudan, access to a fair and prompt refugee status determination process. More than 3,250 asylum-seekers were held at the Holot detention facility and at Saharonim Prison in the Negev/Naqab desert at the end of the year.

According to figures provided by the Ministry of Interior, there were more than 37,000 Eritrean and Sudanese asylum-seekers in Israel as of October 2016. More than 18,900 asylum claims were still pending as of October 2016.

In February the Knesset passed the fourth version of an amendment to the Prevention of Infiltration Law, allowing the authorities to detain asylum-seekers for up to one year without charge. Conditions in detention centres were reported to be severely deficient due to inadequate food and medical care, poor sanitation and overcrowding.

In September, a custody appeals tribunal in Jerusalem declared the government's policy of automatically rejecting the asylum requests of Eritrean army deserters invalid, although thousands had been rejected on that basis.

The authorities granted asylum to a Sudanese national for the first time in June but continued to press thousands of Sudanese and Eritrean asylum-seekers, including those detained at Holot, to leave Israel "voluntarily". More than 2,500 were reported to have agreed to depart "voluntarily" by the end of the year. The government refused to disclose details of its reported agreements with Rwandan and Ugandan authorities, as to whether they included guarantees that asylum-seekers who left Israel voluntarily would not be at real risk of serious human rights violations, thus violating the prohibition of refoulement.

Conscientious objectors

At least five conscientious objectors to military service were imprisoned. They included Tair Kaminer, who was held for almost six months, longer than any woman conscientious objector previously.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Chinese president Xi Jinping and Indian prime minister Narendra Modi are shown at the BRICS summit, Sept. 4, 2017.

Chinas recent standoff with India in the Himalayas ended without a shot being fired, but the confrontation has deepened mistrust between the worlds two Asian giants.

Ending a more than two-month-long military standoff in the remote kingdom of Bhutan, the two sides announced on Aug. 28 that they had negotiated an expeditious disengagement of their troops.

And they pledged to open dialogue over their territorial dispute.

This, they said, will require regular communications between military officers from both sides.

But several Indian analysts have predicted that India-China relations will continue to be tested in parts of the world far from the Himalayas, including the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea.

The standoff began in early June when China began extending an unpaved road southward into the kingdom of Bhutan from a disputed area along the China-Bhutan border.

On June 16, India sent troops into Bhutan in order to block further Chinese road construction.

Seen from India, the contested Doklam Plateau, or Donglang in Mandarin, where Chinese soldiers had been building the road, approaches a strategic valley connecting India to its landlocked northeastern states. India calls it the Chickens Neck."

Some analysts conclude that India came out a winner in the Doklam standoff by acting swiftly and decisively to Chinas challenge in Bhutan and restoring the status quo. But others argue that it would be too simplistic to see the event in terms of winners and losers.

The standoffs impact

Sun Yun, a senior associate at the Washington D.C.-based nonprofit Stimson Center, said that the two sides statements announcing a resolution of the standoff appeared designed to save face for both sides.

But people in both China and India understand that this is not a win for China she said, basing her conclusion on conversations with both Indian and Chinese experts.

The Chinese have come up with more than a dozen reasons for why the ending is good for China, she said.

Those reasons include avoiding two simultaneous conflicts: a potential conflict involving North Korea to Chinas east and another involving India to the west. Another was Chinas need for a peaceful environment before the five-nation BRICS summit, which took place in early September, and before Chinas Communist Party Congress in late October.

BRICS is an acronym for an association which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

Chinese state media claimed at one point that India had withdrawn unilaterally, which would imply that India had blinked and that China now held the upper hand.

But as Sun sees it, Indias swift and forceful moves in Bhutan amounted to a heavy blow to a more assertive foreign policy style introduced by President Xi Jinping and his vision that China is the great power in the region.

India stopped the Chinese construction and, in the process, was not deterred by Chinese threats, she said.

Meanwhile, Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Chinas President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit, held in the Chinese city of Xiamen. The two apparently achieved no important agreements but also avoided any open or embarrassing conflicts.



What next?

In a commentary published a few weeks into the Doklam standoff, the New Delhi-based Indian Express published a commentary which succinctly summarized why the standoff wouldnt end in a military clash, but also pointed to where future strategic challenges to India-China relations might lie.

In the commentary, C. Raja Mohan of the Washington D.C. based Carnegie Endowment, said that military confrontations, such as the one in Bhutan, tend to be constrained by the costs of military conflict and the political loss of face for the two Asian giants from even a small military setback.

In contrast, Mohan said, India cant afford to take its eyes off Beijings maritime forays in the Indian Ocean and the geopolitical impact of those forays, which include Chinese port construction near India.

As Mohan notes, after much internal wrangling in Sri Lanka over Chinese proposals to build a port in the South Asian nation located near the southernmost point of India, China has secured the deal.

A Chinese consortium will build a port there astride the lanes of communication of the Indian Ocean, said Mohan.

According to Mohan, Chinas port contracts will lay the foundation for Chinas long-term economic influence in Indias immediate neighborhood.

Ties with Bhutan

Before dealing with long-term issues in the Indian Ocean, India must immediately begin to improve its ties with Bhutan, some analysts believe.

As The Christian Science Monitor noted in mid-August, India has handled many of the foreign affairs of Bhutan. This, The Monitor says, is a legacy of British rule as well as Bhutans isolation and its own fears after the takeover of nearby Tibet by Communist China in the 1950s.

But the Doklam standoff revealed that a number of Bhutanese now resent what they regard as Indias attempts to block an improvement in relations between Bhutan and China.

Such differences are normal when one country is calling the shots, says Debasis Dash, a researcher currently studying at the University of Malaya.

He notes that India offers the Bhutanese access to the Indian job market and positions in the government and armed forces.

But its also important to remember that while Bhutan is a kingdom, its also a democracy.

To ensure the stability of its position there, India must now upgrade its relationship with Bhutan while continuing to listen carefully to a broad range of opinion, including that of the Bhutans opposition party.

Bhutan will hold parliamentary elections next year, making this a sensitive time.

India apparently failed to get an explicit approval from Bhutan when it sent hundreds of troops into the kingdom in June. And Bhutan has avoided saying whether it sought the intervention.

But Debasis argues that had it issued an explicit statement supporting India, Bhutan could have risked not only its boundary negotiations with Beijing but also any future economic opportunities offered to it by China.

More than half of Bhutans trade is with India, while its trade with China is still limited.

The roots of hostility

In an article published in The Diplomat on Sept. 12, Mohan Malik, a professor at the Center for Security Studies in Honolulu, argues that India is the only Asian power that has long been committed to balancing China.

The two countries power rivalry and their self images as natural great powers and centers of civilization drive them to support different countries and causes, Mohan Malik says.

New economic prosperity and military strength is reawakening nationalistic pride in India, which could bring about a clash with the Chinese, if not handled skillfully, he says.

Add to this Indias growing military cooperation with the United States, as well as with Australia and Asian nations such as Japan and Vietnam, and one can understand Chinas concerns about India.



Finally, Beijing has long resented Indias decision to allow the exiled Dalai Lama, who fled Tibet amid a failed national uprising against Chinese rule in 1959, to take up permanent residence in India.

Mohan says that Chinas long-standing contempt for Indias at times chaotic democracy and bellicose propaganda directed at India by Beijing during the Doklam confrontation have their origins in the earliest days of Chinas Communist Party rule.

Chairman Mao Zedong, for one, doubted the historical legitimacy of the Indian nation, considering it an artificial creation of the British Empire.

In the meantime, India has evolved from the early days of Mahatma Gandhi and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru when many steeped in Ganhdis teachings opposed the use of force as a tool of statecraft.



Dan Southerland is RFA's founding executive editor.
Zhang Xiaoming, director of Beijing's Liaison Office in Hong Kong, warns that Hong Kong's Legislative Council elections in September 2016 should not be used as a platform to promote independence in breach of the Basic Law during a function in Hong Kong, July 20, 2016.

The ruling Chinese Communist Party has promoted its hard-line representative in Hong Kong following a series of high-profile interventions in the city's political life, as commentators warned that the city's freedoms of speech, press and association could be a thing of the past.

Zhang Xiaoming, 54, who heads Beijing's Central Liaison Office in the city, will replace Wang Guangya head the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of China's cabinet, the State Council, Hong Kong's South China Morning Post newspaper reported on Monday.

Zhang, who has been Beijing's representative in the former British colony since December 2012, will return to Beijing "very soon," to begin his new job and to attend the 19th Party Congress in Beijing on Oct. 18, the paper said.

His promotion comes after he went further than his predecessors in promoting Beijing's views and attacking its critics in Hong Kong, where promises of a "high degree of autonomy" following the 1997 handover have been superseded by fears for judicial independence and freedoms of speech and association.

Zhang's tenure has seen the 2014 student-led democracy movement, an intervention by China's parliament, the National People's Congress, that saw the disqualification of six pro-democracy lawmakers, and the unprecedented jailing of student protest leaders Joshua Wong, Nathan Law and Alex Chow by the city's Court of Appeal.

His willingness to speak out against critics of the Chinese government have earned him a reputation as a hard-liner, and his promotion is a sign that Beijing's hands-on policies in Hong Kong look set to continue, analysts said.

Bruce Lui, senior journalism lecturer at the Baptist University, said Beijing's recent willingness to intervene in the running of Hong Kong is dubbed "ruling Hong Kong according to law" by Chinese officials.

"All the signs are that the central government has stepped up this 'ruling Hong Kong according to law' strategy in recent years, which means that they weaponize the law to resolve certain issues," Lui said.

He said the reshuffle may have something to do with concerns over widespread support for independence among young Hong Kongers, bringing in Zhang's second-in-command to address disaffection among younger people.

"Why are they now promoting the director of the Central Liaison Office? Beijing likely believes that Wang Zhimin has had a certain amount of success and experience with youth work," Lui said.

"That is a major priority for the central government in Hong Kong right now."

Divisive period

Civic Party lawmaker Kwok Ka-Ki said Zhang's tenure, which broadly coincided with the rule of former chief executive Leung Chun-ying, was one of the most divisive periods in Hong Kong's history.

"Zhang Xiaoming and Leung Chun-ying have created divisions in Hong Kong throughout the past five years," Kwok told RFA. "It is pretty clear from Zhang's promotion that there will be no change of direction."

"Relations between Hong Kong and the central government, and divisions in Hong Kong society ... will continue to worsen which I think is very bad news," he said.

Growing talk of independence has coincided with the erosion of Hong Kong's traditional freedoms of speech, publication, and judicial independence in recent years and a stalled timetable for full democracy.

Some 40 percent of young people support the idea, compared with around 70 percent who oppose it across all age groups, according to recent opinion polls.

But pan-democratic politicians say they have no truck with the idea, and have accused China of manufacturing the problem deliberately.

Pro-Beijing politicians have called for action against activists who put up a series of banners calling for independence for the city on university campuses this month, saying those who "break the law" should be punished.

Protesters have also gathered, calling for a criminal investigation into the banners, and for pro-democracy academic Benny Tai to be fired from the University of Hong Kong.

Legislator and solicitor Junius Ho told a rally on Sunday that anyone who attempts to separate Hong Kong from China should be "killed."

Speaking to reporters during a mass rally demanding the University of Hong Kong sack Occupy Movement leader Benny Tai on Sunday, Ho asked "if [independence-seekers] are not killed, what else are we to do?"

He added: "It's not a crime to slaughter pigs or dogs," saying that "people who act to promote independence subvert the fate of the entire country, and force all Hongkongers and the 1.3-billion people of China to pay a huge cost."

Official warns of violence

As pan-democratic politicians and academics said discussion of independence should be protected by the principle of freedom of speech, a Chinese official warned of "violence" if universities didn't move to censor the banners, however.

Lau Siu-kai, vice chairman of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies, said that various "forces" including the central government and members of the public could enter university campuses to counter calls for independence.

He called on university chiefs to take steps to "control" the situation themselves.

Hong Kong political commentator Liu Ruishao said Zhang's promotion further reflects Beijing's disregard for public opinion in Hong Kong.

"There is a slogan that is very popular in Beijing right now: 'We ignore you, and we ignore reason,'" Liu said. "This [mindset] explains why Beijing has taken a tougher line in Hong Kong in the past few years."

"There are a lot of people working for the Office of Hong Kong and Macau Affairs who have the ability to reflect the actual situation in Hong Kong [to the leadership], but they're being sidelined because they don't toe the central government's line," Liu said.

"That means that authentic voices like theirs aren't being heard by the central government," Lui said. "That's why I don't hold out much hope for Zhang's tenure [as head of the Office]."

Reported by Lam Kwok-lap for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Gao Feng for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
China's internet censors have shut down a human rights chat group on the popular social media platform QQ after users discussed the recent subversion trial in China of a Taiwan political activist, moderators told RFA on Monday.



A QQ chat group was shut down by authorities after it discussed the trial of Taiwan NGO worker and democracy activist Lee Ming-cheh, who pleaded guilty to subversion charges at his trial last week, organizer and rights activist Xu Qin told RFA.



Lee, the first foreign national to be held under new laws governing NGO activity in China, stood trial on Sept. 11 alongside Chinese national Peng Yuhua at the Intermediate People's Court in Hunan's Yueyang city, where he "confessed" to charges of "incitement to subvert state power."



"I had planned a seminar on the topic, but my QQ account got shut down, as well as the QQ group chat," Xu said. "The group moderator's account died too."



"My account on Sina Weibo ... has also been permanently deleted," she said. "[The authorities] are very sensitive about the topic of Lee Ming-cheh's trial."



Group member Xu Kun said he had heard of around five or six QQ accounts being permanently shut down following the group chat.



"I know of five or six people whose QQ accounts have been shut down, and about four or five on WeChat," Xu Kun said. "Normally, the authorities just block groups planning to hold public seminars."



"It was because of the Lee Ming-cheh case that they blocked us; they are very frightened," he said.



Dozens questioned



Dozens of supporters who traveled to the central province of Hunan to show support at Lee's trial have been questioned by state security police after arriving back in their hometowns, activists said.



They said the government is likely hoping to silence the country's dissidents and activist community ahead of the 19th Party Congress next month, where President Xi Jinping will be looking to consolidate his power at the head of the ruling Chinese Congress Party.



Bao Tong, a former aide to the late ousted premier Zhao Ziyang, said he has been forced to leave town ahead of the meeting, and is currently under round-the-clock guard by state security police.



"They have set up a monitoring and listening station below the room where I am staying," Bao said. "The listening station is on the ground floor, and I am staying on the third floor."



"There is an 'audio-visual' company that sends a van every day to pick up the recordings ... they have their meals sent in by the local police station," he said. "One time, they brought the food up to me and I asked if it was for the audio-visual company, and they said, no, they are on the ground floor."



Bao, 85, who has been under close surveillance and continual house arrest after serving a seven-year jail term in the wake of the June 4 military crackdown on the 1989 pro-democracy movement in Tiananmen Square, said he has been subjected to ever-tightening restrictions in recent months.



"Three months ago they stopped me meeting up with anyone for a meal," Bao said. "I couldn't do that in July, nor in August, nor in September."



Bao said he was also warned not to speak to the media following the July 13 death of late Nobel peace laureate and political dissident Liu Xiaobo from liver cancer while in police custody.



"Now, I won't be able to share a meal with my wife from now until the 19th Party Congress," he said.



Concerns raised



Last week, human rights activists called on China to stop detaining lawyers and critics, voicing concern for their health and fate in custody after Liu's treatment prompted an international outcry.



The activists highlighted the case of Jiang Tianyong, a prominent human rights lawyer disbarred in 2009, who disappeared last November and was held incommunicado for six months.



Rights groups also highlighted the case of Uyghur scholar Ilham Tohti, declared a case of arbitrary detention by a U.N. panel in 2014, who is serving a life sentence for separatism.



Meanwhile, Zhang Qing, wife of jailed activist Guo Feixiong, told an NGO event in Geneva last week that he has suffered after being sentenced to six years in prison in late 2015 and staging a 101-day hunger strike in 2016 in protest.



"Guo has encountered a wide range of brutal and evil torture in jail, such as 13 days and nights of sleep deprivation, and a high-voltage taser applied to his private parts to extract a confession," she said.



Human Rights Watch has said Beijing is waging a campaign of harassment against Chinese activists who seek to testify at the U.N. about repression.



Reported by Yang Fan and Qiao Long for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.




Hundreds of nationalists in Buddhist-majority Myanmar protested in Yangon on Monday against the recent terrorist attacks in violence-ridden Rakhine state, the findings of an advisory commission that probed the causes of unrest in Rakhine, and what they describe as international interference in the countrys internal affairs.

The group, which included Buddhist monks, gathered in front of city hall to demonstrate against the Aug. 25 attacks by Rohingya Muslim militants in Rakhine and the recommendations of the Myanmar government-appointed Rakhine Advisory Commission.

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) carried out the deadly assaults on police outposts and an army base in northern Rakhine state in what the Myanmar government called extremist terrorist attacks by Muslim insurgents.

Myanmars Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Sept. 11 that ARSA had aimed to undermine the efforts of the government to find a lasting solution to the issue of Rakhine through the speedy implementation of the advisory commissions recommendations by conducting the attacks just after the release of a final report by the commission led by former United Nations chief Kofi Annan.

The protesters also circulated leaflets rejecting 26 recommendations by the Myanmar government-appointed Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, opposing its call for reviews of the countrys citizenship law, an end to restrictions on the Rohingya in order to prevent further violence in the beleaguered region, the appointment of an independent authority to handle complaints about the citizenship process, clear statements about the rights of those rejected for citizenship, the appointment of a single person to oversee the countrys police forces, and the placement of the border police under the national police chief.

Myanmars President Htin Kyaw has formed a committee to implement the recommendations.

Local media are silent on this Bengali issue, [and] they dare not express the real news, said Thiha Thu, a nationalist who spoke at the rally, using a derogatory word for the stateless Rohingya who are considered illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and denied citizenship under the countrys 1982 Citizenship Law.

They dare not point out the truth [because] they probably are influenced by oil dollars, he said, in an allusion to wealthy countries that support the Rohingya possibly financing the Myanmar media to report only one side of the story.

He also compared media organizations in Myanmar to Japans mafia, the yakuza, and to the mafia in Sicily, Italy, to cheers from the crowd.

Kyaw Thu Nyein, another speaker at the protest, said the group of nationalists is not affiliated with any political party or organization.

[We] are not affiliated with any political party, even though they have accused this protest event of being politically motivated, he said in a general reference to those who criticize Myanmar's Buddhist nationalists. How foolish they are!

Emptying villages

In the latest army offensive since the Aug. 25 attacks, nearly 180 of 471 Rohingya villages have been emptied of their inhabitants in northern Rakhines Maungdaw, Buthidaung, and Rathedaung townships, according to the Myanmar government.

Satellite images analyzed by Human Rights Watch (HRW) between Aug. 25 and Sept. 16 indicate that more than 220 villages have been destroyed by fire in northern Rakhine. The government has accused the Rohingya of torching their own homes, but has not provided any evidence to support the claim.

More than 410,000 Rohingya refugees  over a third of Rakhines Muslim population of about 1.1 million  have poured into southeastern Bangladesh in the past three weeks to escape the violence. About 1,000 people have been killed in clashes and security sweeps by the countrys military, according to the U.N.

The refugees join another 400,000 Rohingya from Myanmar already living in camps in Bangladesh, tens of thousands of whom fled a military crackdown in October 2016 following earlier ARSA attacks on three border guard stations in northern Rakhine.

Rohingya refugees have reported that Myanmar soldiers have torched their villages and shot civilians as well as placed landmines along parts of the border with Bangladesh in the latest wave of violence.

The U.N. Security Council has condemned the violence, and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that ethnic cleansing in northern Rakhine has created a catastrophic humanitarian situation for the Rohingya refugees.

In this case, I think we have plenty of evidence that the Myanmar government is committing genocide against the Rohingya, said Gregory Stanton, a professor of genocide studies and prevention at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and president of Genocide Watch, a group that seeks to raise awareness and influence public policy concerning potential and actual genocide.

Some have said that it is, as simply as they put it, ethnic cleansing  [but] what they really mean is forced displacement which is a crime against humanity, he told RFAs Myanmar Service. But its more than that.

You can use genocidal measures as a way to terrorize people into leaving, and that is what the Myanmar government is doing right now, he said.

There is no excuse for genocide if a government supposedly mobilizes its troops to put down a so-called insurgency or a so-called terrorist attack, and instead they massacre large numbers of children, elderly people, women and so forth, who had nothing to do with that attack, he said. Its genocide.

International condemnation

On Sunday, HRW called on the U.N. Security Council and concerned countries to impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Myanmar military in an effort to stop its ethnic cleansing campaign against the Rohingya.

The call came as the U.N. General Assembly prepared open general debate on Tuesday in New York, though Myanmars de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi has opted not to attend the event, citing the crisis in Rakhine.

Burmese security forces are committing ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya and disregarding the condemnation of world leaders, said John Sifton, HRWs Asia advocacy director. The time has come to impose tougher measures that Burmas generals cannot ignore.

The group also called on the Security Council to demand that Myanmar allow humanitarian agencies to access refugees, permit the entry of a U.N. fact-finding mission assigned to investigate rights violations in Rakhine, and ensure the safe and voluntary return of those displaced by the violence.

Myanmars national security adviser Thaung Tun told Reuters on Monday that those who fled the violence will be able to return to Myanmar, though the process needed to be discussed.

The news agency also reported that Britain and France called on Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday to step up efforts to end the military violence against the Rohingya. The United States has also urged the government to protect civilians.

Aung San Suu Kyi, who has largely remained silent on the crisis and the plight of the Rohingya, is scheduled to address the Myanmar public about the situation in Rakhine on Tuesday.



Reported by Thantsin Oo, Htet Arkar, Zin Mar Win, and Khin Maung Nyane for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Kyaw Min Htun. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
Updated at 5:36 p.m. EST on 2017-09-18

Militant groups in Malaysia and Bangladesh have recruited fighters to join the Rohingya insurgency in Myanmar's Rakhine state, security officials said Monday, as outrage intensified over violence against the Muslim minority that U.N. officials have called ethnic cleansing.

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's new police chief said a group of Malaysians was already "in Myanmar to fight against the oppression of the Rohingya there."

"Intelligence also detected that a group in Malaysia is currently attempting to sneak into Myanmar to join the fight. Counter-terrorism is determining how many of them are abroad and those who are still here," Police Inspector-General Mohamad Furzi Harun told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

"These jihadists are being recruited by those who are already in Rakhine and Malaysia. It is believed that those who are already there entered the country via Bangladesh and Thailand," he said.

In Bangladesh, the counter-terrorist wing of Bangladesh's national police recently convened an urgent meeting on how to contain cross-border movements by members of the Rohingya rebel group known as the Arakan Rakhine Salvation Army (ARSA), an official with the department told BenarNews on condition of anonymity.

"[I]nfiltrating ARSA members have been trying to recruit new members from the Rohingya who have been staying here for long," the official said, referring to the 400,000 refugees sheltering the southeast of the country. That number has doubled since Aug. 25, according to the latest figures from the United Nations.

"We have information that they already recruited 50 members," he said.

"Some of the homegrown militants have been trying to fuel them. But the government policy is not to support the terrorists. Some of our teams have been working in Cox's Bazar and its adjoining areas," he added, alluding to Bangladeshi Muslim extremist groups.

I will sacrifice my life

BenarNews also spoke to a Rohingya man who claimed to be an ARSA member who had not yet taken up arms for the insurgency. He fled Rakhine amid the recent surge in violence on Sept. 7.

I did not get any weapons. I am not a senior leader of al-Yaqin. I am a junior fighter, the 18-year-old who identified himself as Abdus Shukur, said during a Sept. 14 interview at a makeshift refugee camp in Ukhia, a sub-district of Coxs Bazar in southeastern Bangladesh. He was referring to ARSA by its older name, Harakah al-Yaqin (Faith Movement).

I will return to my country again, and even fight if necessary. I will sacrifice my life for freeing my homeland, Shukur told BenarNews, saying he had fled from an attack on his home neighborhood of Jhulaipara in Rakhines Maungdaw township.

Some 40 al-Yaqin members were from his neighborhood and the group was fighting for rights for Rohingya, who are not recognized as citizens in majority-Buddhist Myanmar, and who have been forced by the Mogh (local Buddhists), he said, to pay rent for land that Rohingya own.

We have not been able to settle on our own land. We cannot work; we are not even allowed to go from one village to another. Al-Yaqin has been working for the betterment of those Rohingya. They have been fighting so that we can eat three meals a day, Shukur said.

Abdus Shukur is shown during an interview at a makeshift camp in Ukhia, Bangladesh, Sept. 14, 2017. [Jesmin Papri/BenarNews]

Extremists could exploit situation: officials

ARSA claims to be fighting Myanmars security forces and Buddhist militia to defend the stateless Muslim minority, whose civilian population has been targeted in killings, burnings of villages, and other atrocities allegedly carried out by government forces and local militia, according to eyewitness accounts from refugees and research by international human rights organizations.

The latest cycle of violence began on Aug. 25, when ARSA insurgents mounted coordinated attacks on Myanmar police outposts in Rakhine.

Myanmar authorities also blamed the group, when it was still formally known as Harakah al-Yakin (HaY), for launching attacks on police posts in the state in October 2016. This precipitated a crackdown by the military that saw 87,000 Rohingya people flee to southeastern Bangladesh in the following weeks, according to U.N. estimates.

More than 800,000 Rohingya refugees, including those who fled earlier violence in Myanmar, are now sheltering in southeastern Bangladesh.

According to a report published last year by the think-tank International Crisis Group, a committee of Rohingya emigres living in Saudi Arabia oversaw HaY and had connections to Bangladesh, Pakistan, and possibly India.

Last week, global terror group al-Qaeda announced that its fighters would help defend Rohingya Muslims against violence targeting their communities in Rakhine.

On Sept. 14, however, ARSA issued a statement in which it denied any link to al-Qaeda, Islamic State, or other terrorist organizations, although Myanmars government has branded the insurgents as extremist Bengali terrorists.

In Dhaka, Monirul Islam, Bangladeshs police counter-terrorist chief, warned over the weekend that his department was aware of opportunists who might take advantage of the humanitarian crisis in the countrys southeast stemming from the violence in Rakhine to instigate anti-state activities.

We have requested Rohingya refugees to stay inside the camp. There is a concern that some people may manipulate them by offering relief and use them in militant activities, Bangladesh Police Inspector-General A.K.M. Shahidul Haque told a news conference.

Meanwhile, at least 20,000 members of a hard-line Muslim group, Hefazat-e-Islami, which has been staging protests against Myanmar over the new wave of violence against the Rohingya, took to the streets of the Bangladeshi capital on Monday to vent more anger.

Well besiege the Myanmar Embassy to send a message to the Myanmar government that we wont tolerate this genocide of our Muslim brothers in Arakan [Rakhine], demonstrator Maolana Saifuddin told Agence France-Presse.

Thousands want to volunteer

In Indonesia, the worlds most populous Muslim-majority nation where protests over the plight of the Rohingya have also been happening, an official with another hard-line group, the Islam Defenders Front (FPI), told BenarNews that at at least 10,000 members had said they wanted to help the Rohingya as humanitarian volunteers.

FPI is always serious about helping other Muslims, Novel Bamukian, the general secretary of the groups Jakarta chapter, told BenarNews, adding that some FPI members were not able to enter Myanmar but had made it to Bangladesh.

Elsewhere, Wawan Purwanto, the spokesman for Indonesias National Intelligence Agency (BIN), told Free Malaysia Today it had no information on whether Indonesian citizens had joined ARSA, but it was monitoring the situation.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
[PRINCE GEORGE] Police in Virginia say four children were hurt, three seriously, when two all-terrain vehicles crashed in a field.

Prince George County police said in a news release that the crash happened Saturday night on private property. Officers say the children were riding two ATVs when the vehicles collided.

Authorities say all four children were hurt. Three were taken to a trauma center, where police say they are in serious but stable condition.
Seven people arrested during rally, protests

6:20 p.m.: There were a total of seven arrests made during Saturday's pro-Confederate rally and counterprotests in Richmond.

Four of the arrests were for wearing a mask in public.

Caroline Hill, 24, of McLean; Thomas W. Rockett, 21, of Herndon; Corissa C. Duffey, 25, of Stockbridge, Ga.; and Ian M. Gerson, 32, of Brooklyn, N.Y. were charged with wearing a mask in public. It's against Virginia law for anyone over age 16 to wear a mask to conceal their identity.

Brittany D. Bush, 29, of Petersburg, was charged with disorderly conduct. She was arrested for allegedly threatening a bystander.

Jabari A. Robinson, 21, of Roanoke, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The only Richmond resident arrested during Saturday's protests was Deante L. Watkins, 18, who was charged with two counts of possession of a stolen weapon and two counts of possession of a concealed weapon.

Richmond police also said there were no injuries or accidents reported.

People who filmed Saturday's march and were harassed for doing so

Two detained for wearing masks

4 p.m.: Two people wearing masks, who seemed to appear out of nowhere, were quickly detained by police in Stuart Circle.

It was not clear if the two people were part of the counterprotest march that had just ended near the J.E.B. Stuart statue.

It's a violation of Virginia law to wear a mask to conceal your identity. Police had warned in advance that they would be enforcing the mask law.

Section 18.2-422 of the Code of Virginia:

It shall be unlawful for any person over 16 years of age to, with the intent to conceal his identity, wear any mask, hood or other device whereby a substantial portion of the face is hidden or covered so as to conceal the identity of the wearer, to be or appear in any public place, or upon any private property in this Commonwealth without first having obtained from the owner or tenant thereof consent to do so in writing.

Marchers return to Stuart Circle

3:45 p.m.: After marching along Richmond streets near the Monroe Park campus of VCU, a group of roughly 50 to 100 counterprotesters has returned to Stuart Circle where the march began.

A confrontation with a pro-Confederate was quickly broken up by Richmond police. There were no arrests.

Police in riot gear were seen assembling and some protesters scattered.

Counterprotesters marching in Richmond

2:20 p.m.: A group of between 50 to 100 counterprotesters have started marching through the city chanting "Black live matter" and "Who keeps us safe? We keep us safe!"

Some of the marchers demanded they not be broadcast or filmed.

The march started in Stuart Circle and has since taken the counterprotester on Franklin, Broad, Belvidere and Main streets.

Petersburg woman arrested

1:40 p.m.: Richmond police arrested a Petersburg woman during Saturday's pro-Confederate rally and counterprotest.

Police said Brittany Bush, 29, was charged with disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor, after she allegedly threatened a bystander.

Police said the incident is still being investigated, and this was the only arrest during Saturday's rally and protest.

Rally and protest winding down near the Lee statue

1:15 p.m.: In an assembly zone near the Gen. Robert E. Lee monument, which was entirely anti-racist, many of the protesters have left, but there are still roughly 150 people lounging in the shade and eating.

A group called The Democratic Socialists of America spent some time socializing near the Lee monument, and then collected garbage from others around the assembly zone before leaving.

The Richmond group Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality  whose members held a banner throughout the protest that read "No shrines to white supremacy"  have left the area, giving each other high-fives as they departed.

There's still a significant police presence around the Lee statue, but far fewer officers than there were earlier.

Woman detained by police; tow truck shows up to assist rally organizers

11:53 a.m.: Police detained a woman near a group of counterprotesters near the Stuart monument.

As police were walking her through the crowd, counterprotesters started chanting "shame" and "who do you protect, who do you serve?"

It was unclear why the woman was detained.

Witnesses said that the incident followed a heated, verbal exchange between protesters.

Meanwhile, a tow truck showed up at Robinson and Hanover streets to tow the pickup truck of the pro-Confederate rally organizers who had two tires slashed.

The organizers got into a police car for a ride to a "safe location."

Pro-Confederate rally organizers wait for tow truck after two tires slashed

11:20 a.m.: Rally organizers, who left in a white truck with both right-side tires flat, are waiting for a tow truck at Robinson and Hanover streets.

Thomas Crompton, one of the pro-Confederate rally organizers, told police he and the three other ralliers with him were being tailed and that their tires were slashed.

It was either frame damage of our lives, Crompton told officers. There was a mob.

Organizers told reporters they wouldnt comment. Asked if they felt their rally was successful, Tara Brandau said only, We were peaceful.

They wanted us out of the state, but then they slash our tires so we cant leave the state. That makes no sense, Brandau told police as they waited for a tow truck.

 Ned Oliver

Pro-Confederate rally organizers from Tennessee leave

11:05 a.m.: Police led the pro-Confederate group over a barricade and away from the Lee monument.

One of the pro-Confederate rally organizers from Tennessee, Thomas Crompton, said they were done with their demonstration. As the group got to their truck on Meadow Street, two right-side tires were flat. The group drove off in the truck with the flat tire as some counterprotesters chased them.

Back at Lee monument, two new pro-Confederate protesters showed up, one holding a Confederate flag. They stayed for about 30 minutes and then left.

 Shelby Lum and Graham Moomaw

N.C. 'country boy' in Richmond

Erik Pulley, 20, of Wilson, N.C., said he's in Richmond to support keeping the monuments.

"Because you never see a black monument getting torn down, do you?" said Pulley. "You always see a white one."

Pulley, who called himself a "country boy," and said his family has ties to the KKK and Aryan Brotherhood, came to Richmond by himself.

 Patrick Wilson

Scene around the Lee statue

10:15 a.m.: More than 100 people have assembled to the west of the Lee statue.

About six pro-Confederate protesters are being confronted by more than 100 counterprotesters, who are shouting "Traitors go home." The pro-Confederates are chanting back "all lives matter" and called their opponents "sheep."

Police in riot gear quickly moved in to maintain distance between the two groups.

A pair of two young women in sundresses handed out white paper roses and sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic.

The march of counterprotesters that started at the Maggie Walker statue started to move to the barricades between Stuart and Lee monuments.

The Richmond Police Department tweeted that no arrests have been made, but one person has been removed from the area around Lee monument.

 Ned Oliver and Katie O'Connor

Counterprotesters reach Stuart Circle

10:14 a.m.: At 10 a.m., the march of counterprotesters, which was joined by Black Lives Matter New York, that started at the Maggie Walker statue reached Stuart Circle, chanting Hey hey, ho ho, racism has got to go, to cheers from people already there.

The group marching, since it doesnt have a permit, had to stay on the sidewalks and out of the streets, however, police blocked off the intersection at Belvidere and Broad streets so it could cross over on their way to Stuart Circle.

 Katie O'Connor

Organizers arrive on Monument Ave.; marchers leave Walker statue

9:45 a.m.: Two of the organizers of the pro-Confederate rally, Judy and Thomas Crompton, arrived on Monument Avenue at about 9:30 a.m.

Thomas was carrying a semi-automatic rifle and showed the police his permit.

Police had opened the gates at Broad and Adams and a small number of people had begun trickling in.

A few arguments flared up. Police stopped one counterprotester who was using a mic to swear at the pro-Confederates.

Meanwhile, the crowd that had gathered at the Maggie Walker statue on Broad Street have begun their march to Stuart Circle.

Large police presence on Monument Avenue

9:03 a.m.: Large numbers of state and city police began arriving on Monument Avenue around 9 a.m., many by GRTC bus.

Some officers wore riot gear and others were in their standard uniforms.

Officers, who have promised swift arrests if they witness any illegal activity, distributed zip-tie style handcuffs.

In addition to fencing set up Friday, police positioned dump trucks as make-shift barricades to prevent a car attack.

As of 9 a.m., there were virtually no pro-Confederate rally attendees or counterprotesters in sight.

More than 100 people gathered at Maggie Walker statue

8:56 a.m.: With six police officers on motorcycles watching calmly from Broad Street, more than 100 people milled around the Maggie Walker statue at the corner of West Broad and North Adams streets.

The statue, said Jelani Drew, advocacy coordinator for the Richmond Peace Education Center, is the only monument to civil rights in the city, whereas the statues on Monument Avenue have a very different message.

"We're here to show support for people of color who may feel affected by what happened in Charlottesville and by the Confederate group rallying today at (the Lee Monument)," Drew said.

She said that the pro-Confederate groups are not separated from white supremacy. While the risk of violence may be lower, the ideas are just as dangerous.

The group plans to march from Maggie Walker to Stuart Circle, where the first monument on the avenue, of JEB Stuart, stands  though those plans may change depending on street closures and access.

Pam Derby drove 50 minutes from her home in Charles City to attend the rally.

"I believe all people are created equal," she said. "America was built on the backs of blacks, and I believe the statues (on Monument Avenue) denigrate them."

Throughout the crowd, participants wore Black Lives Matter t-shirts and a few gently beat drums in front of Maggie Walker as more and more people arrive.

Richmond resident Anita Lee held a sign that declares, "Honor black history not confederate shrines."

She said she was there because she is in favor of taking down the statues of Confederate generals on Monument Avenue.

Jamie Kilpatrick, also a Richmond resident, sat next to Lee and concurred.

"I believe monuments are supposed to glorify," she said. "I don't believe we should glorify treason, racism and slavery."

 Katie O'Connor

Large state police convoy on Chippenham, Powhite

8:30 a.m.: A large number of Virginia State Police vehicles, at least 20, were seen travelling north on Chippenham Parkway and then north on Powhite Parkway at about 7:45 a.m. Saturday.

The vehicles, which included cruisers and SUVs, headed east on the Downtown Expressway, and were likely headed for the law enforcement staging area near the Richmond Coliseum.

 Paul Whelan

Protests and marches scheduled to begin at 8:45 a.m.

8:15 a.m.: A peaceful rally and counter protest organized by the Unitarian Universalist Church is scheduled to begin at 8:45 a.m. at the Maggie Walker statue at the intersection of Adams and Broad streets.

Participants in the pro-Confederate rally are being asked by organizers to arrive at the Robert E. Lee statue on Monument Avenue at 10 a.m.

Police from around the region will be on hand and officials have erected an extensive network of barricades around the statue to create three "assembly zones" where all weapons will be banned except firearms, which authorities say they can not legally prohibit under the state's open carry law.

The assembly zones won't divide attendees by their view points - police said they would have no way of knowing who should be assigned to what area. The zones are not connected at the statue, which police have cordoned off. The only way to travel from one area to another is from behind by walking several blocks on the side streets.

 Ned Oliver

How this is different than Charlottesville

8:03 a.m.: The lead-up to the event has been very different from the Aug. 12 protests in Charlottesville.

The Charlottesville rally was planned and promoted for months by large, militant white nationalist groups. In the weeks leading up to it, police said they had intelligence suggesting protesters and counterprotesters were planning violence.

Police have said they havent received any similar intelligence about the Richmond protest. And unlike the groups behind Charlottesville, the Richmond event is being planned by a small group that has so far not demonstrated any meaningful, widespread support. Read more.
MONDAY

The Richmond School Board will meet at 6 p.m. in the School Board room on the 17th floor of City Hall.

TUESDAY

The Dinwiddie County Board of Supervisors will meet at 3 p.m., 14016 Boydton Plank Road.

The Richmond Public Schools Ad-Hoc Facilities Committee will meet at 5 p.m. at George Wythe High School, 4314 Crutchfield St.

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission will meet at 6 p.m., 10001 Iron Bridge Road.

The Petersburg City Council will meet at 6:30 p.m., 103 River St.

The Ashland Town Council will meet at 7 p.m. at Town Hall, 101 Thompson St.

WEDNESDAY

The Virginia Department of Education will host a computer science Standards of Learning test review at the Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St.

THURSDAY
A federal housing agency has warned the owners of a beleaguered housing community in Henrico County that it needs to make repairs to its property or potentially face regulatory action.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in August sent a demand for corrective actions to Essex VA Investors LLC, the owners of Essex Village, a federally subsidized apartment complex off Laburnum Avenue near the Richmond Raceway.

The letter notes that things have improved at Essex Village since it got a failing grade for a HUD inspection in January. Problems found during an August HUD inspection that the complex passed included walls with holes and cracks, missing and damaged floor tiles, leaking faucets, mold and mildew, a roach infestation and peeling paint.

The inspection results for the individual unit conditions are still considered unacceptable and represents a serious risk to the health and safety of the tenants, the letter reads. These conditions are indicative of the owners serious neglect of this property and failure to fulfill its minimum obligations such as performing routine maintenance.

According to the letter, the owners of Essex Village have 90 days from the date of the letter  Aug. 21  to correct the propertys issues. If the problems arent addressed in that time, HUD can take actions that could hurt the owners ability to participate in HUD programs.

Essex Village is managed by PK Management. Joyce Walker, a spokeswoman for the management company, noted the owners investment in the property.

The owner has spent over $4 million in improvements and is continuing to enhance the quality of life for the residents at Essex Village, Walker said.

The letter from HUD comes after months of public scrutiny of the conditions at the apartment complex.

On Thursday, Supervisor Frank Thornton of the Fairfield District held a town hall on Essex Village in a room on the grounds of the Richmond Raceway. He called the location a neutral place. The county provided shuttles for Essex Village residents who wanted to attend the meeting.

Thornton said the purpose of the meeting was to give an update on the complex and give residents a chance to connect with the county. The meeting was attended by a few dozen people, along with County Manager John Vithoulkas, other county officials and Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico.

Thornton sought to dispel at least one rumor when he said the county does not have the authority to tear down Essex Village.

We always need to watch out for folks who give and spread rumors, he said.

Thornton also called for residents to form some kind of civic organization to help them get organized.

Vithoulkas implored residents to call the county with any issues they have with the property.

During a question-and-answer session, residents said there have been some improvements at Essex Village and they were pleased to hear about the countys efforts, but that there was a lot of work to be done with the apartments. Frustration with PK Management was a common theme.

Since July 2016, Henrico has issued 141 violation notices to the owners of Essex Village, according to Doug Middleton, deputy county manager for public safety. Most of the issues are getting corrected, but that has not stopped Henrico from taking Essex VA Investors to court. One of the hopes for the court proceedings in November is that it will help problems at Essex Village get fixed before the county has to get involved, said Gregory Revels, a county building official.

Barbara Hill, an Essex Village resident of 19 years, said she has seen maintenance of the complex decline over the years.
ROANOKE  Boones Mill has money to spend on the renovation of its train depot, but its struggling to find a builder who will take on the project.

The town south of Roanoke received a $242,000 transportation alternatives program grant from the Virginia Department of Transportation in fiscal 2015. Town Manager Matt Lawless said about $100,000 of that money was spent on design work.

The first phase of construction  largely a stabilization effort, which includes electrical, concrete and drainage work  was approved by the state agency so the town put out a request for proposals. None came. It put the request out a second time and, again, no responses.

Lawless said he thinks the problem is that the request for the relatively small project, estimated at roughly $80,000, went out during the busiest season for contractors equipped to do such work.

The lack of progress has been pretty frustrating for volunteers who have put in countless hours working to preserve the historic structure, which was saved in 2014 when it was moved from its original location to the town.

Were kind of unhappy you might say, but were not to the point of giving up, said Councilman Mike Smith, a champion of the train depot.

The town is preparing to again seek bids for the work.

Hopefully the third times the charm, Lawless said, noting that the project had been simplified and would likely be more appealing now, since builders arent as busy in the winter.
The Stafford Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in identifying a driver who left the scene of an accident Saturday after striking an 11-year-old boy.

Sheriff's 1st Lt. Eric Quinn said took place just after 3 p.m. on Cynthias Place in the England Run North apartment complex. Quinn said the boy was crossing the road on his bicycle when he was struck by a blue pickup truck.

It was reported that the truck stopped briefly before leaving the scene. The boy was taken to Stafford Hospital Center, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released.

The vehicle was described by witnesses as a dark blue crew-cab style pickup truck with a Philadelphia Eagles sticker on the left side of the back window.

The driver was a young Hispanic male with black hair wearing rainbow-colored sunglasses on his head.

Quinn said there was a female in the front seat with a child sitting in her lap and a male in the back behind the driver.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 540-658-4400 or Crime Solvers at 540-659-2020.
Virginia State Police are investigating the mysterious Thursday death of a woman on a Buckingham County road, the department said Friday evening.

Just before 6 p.m. Thursday, state police received a call about a crash in the 2300 block of Gravel Hill Road. When Trooper G.T. Lee arrived at the scene, there was no crashed vehicle. Instead, he found a woman lying in the roadway and a man standing over her.

The woman was declared dead at the scene. Her body was taken to the chief medical examiners office in Richmond for examination, autopsy and positive identification, according to police.

The man, identified as Neal E. Fore, 29, of Cumberland, was arrested and charged with DUI, driving without a valid license and improper use of a farm tag license plate. He is being held without bond at the Piedmont Regional Jail.

Fore was driving a light-brown late 1990s or 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with farm use tags and a missing front bumper. Fore did not stop his vehicle at the scene. Police said Fore and the woman were traveling in the Jeep together prior to her death.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

Anyone with information about the womans death or who recalls seeing the Cherokee in the vicinity of Gravel Hill Road is asked to call the Virginia State Police at (434) 352-7128 or dial #77 on a cellphone, or email questions@vsp.virginia.gov.
The past several hurricane seasons devastated parts of the United States, yet some stretches of coastline have gone generations without seeing storms like Harvey, Maria, Michael or Laura.

Making a list of the most recent hurricane strikes for a particular area isn't as straightforward as it may seem, and it's even more complicated for Virginia.

Nearly every state in the Eastern United States felt some kind of tropical weather impact during the record 2020 season. Sometimes in the form of a tropical storm, or just remnant rain. But only Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and North Carolina got the full brunt of a hurricane landfall  and three times in the case of Louisiana.

(This story was originally published in September 2017 and updated ahead of the 2021 season.)

What is a landfall?

The eye of a hurricane is essentially the calm in the middle of the storm. Bands of heavy rain and sustained winds of at least 74 mph spin around the eye.

So landfall is defined as the center of a hurricane's eye crossing onto a coastline or over an island.

For example, the eye of 2016's Hurricane Matthew technically only made a brief landfall in South Carolina, but it still brought high wind and storm surge to much of Florida and Georgia and left massive flooding in eastern North Carolina.

There may be a scientific difference between a hurricane landfall and a near miss, but the effects of a more distant storm could actually be worse depending on one's location and the storm in question. In the case of Matthew, North Carolina suffered a higher damage toll from inland flooding than South Carolina, even though the eye missed the state.

That's because storms are more than just a point or a line on a map, or a number on a scale. Destructive storm surge, deadly rip currents, flooding rains and even tornadoes can hit hundreds of miles away from where a hurricane's eye comes ashore (if it even does make landfall to begin with). But the strongest winds and highest coastal inundation will often be found close to the center of a hurricane and along the right side of the eye's path.

***

The lists below describe multiple situations: the last direct landfall in each state, and the last time a state had any hurricane wind conditions from a storm that did not make landfall. Where applicable, there's also a listing of each state's most recent major hurricane landfall and the most intense on record. Major is defined as Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale with sustained winds above 111 mph.

Here's an updated guide for each coastal state plus Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, based on records from the National Hurricane Center.

Virginia

 Last hurricane landfall directly on the Virginia coast: unknown.

 Last hurricane conditions in the coastal region while the center of a storm tracked offshore: Irene in August 2011.

 Last hurricane conditions from a storm that crossed in via North Carolina: Isabel in September 2003.

***

Many hurricanes have left behind floods, power outages and beach erosion in Virginia, but there's never been a recorded instance of the eye of a hurricane coming ashore between Virginia Beach and Chincoteague.

In official records going back to 1851, all hurricane-force conditions here were caused by storms that first made landfall in North Carolina or tracked right offshore.

Many hurricanes slam into neighboring North Carolina, but few bring hurricane-force winds into the interior of Virginia because moving over land deprives a storm of its fuel.

Isabel counts as a hurricane strike for Virginia, even though it clearly wasn't a Virginia landfall.

Other storms that brought damaging winds to the commonwealth after a North Carolina landfall were Fran in 1996, Hazel in 1954, the Chesapeake-Potomac hurricane of 1933, and "the Gale" of 1878.

A violent hurricane that blew northwest into Virginia in 1667 might have come ashore around the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, but it's difficult to know for sure based on the lack of weather data from that era.

There are some instances of weaker tropical storms making a direct path onto the Eastern Shore, like Danielle in 1992, Dean in 1983 and Bret in 1981. One with a similar path could come again, and it might be stronger.

It's entirely possible that the eye of a hurricane could someday land directly on our shore by taking a similar southeast-to-northwest or east-to-west path, but the concave shape of our coastline and prevailing upper-level winds from the west and southwest will keep it from happening often.

The Southeast

North Carolina

 Last landfall: Category 1 Isaias at Ocean Isle Beach in August 2020.

 Previous landfall: Category 2 Dorian at Cape Hatteras in September 2019.

 Last major (Category 3+) landfall: Fran at Cape Fear in September 1996.

 Most intense landfall: Category 4 Hazel near Little River Inlet in October 1954.

South Carolina

 Last hurricane impact, though it made landfall in North Carolina: Isaias in August 2020.

 Last landfall: Category 1 Matthew near McClellanville in October 2016.

 Last major (and most intense) landfall: Category 4 Hugo at Sullivan's Island in September 1989.

Georgia

 Last hurricane impact, though it made landfall in Florida: Michael in October 2018.

 Last landfall: David in September 1979.

 Last major (and most intense) landfall: October 1898.

The Gulf Coast States

Florida

 Last hurricane impact, though it made landfall in Alabama: Sally in September 2020.

 Last landfall, also a major hurricane: Michael in October 2018.

 Most intense landfall: "Labor Day" hurricane in September 1935.

Alabama

 Last landfall: Sally in September 2020.

 Last major landfall: Ivan in September 2004.

 Most intense landfall: Frederic in September 1979.

Mississippi

 Last hurricane impact, though it made landfall in Louisiana: Zeta in October 2020.

 Last landfall: Nate in October 2017.

 Last major landfall: Katrina in August 2005.

 Most intense landfall: Camille in August 1969.

Louisiana

 Last landfall: Zeta in late October 2020 (shortly after Laura in August and Delta in early October).

 Last major landfall: Laura in August 2020.

 Most intense landfall: Camille in August 1969.

Texas

 Last hurricane impact, though it made landfall in Louisiana: Laura in August 2020.

 Last landfall: Hanna in July 2020.

 Last major landfall: Harvey in August 2017.

 Most intense landfall: "Indianola" hurricane in August 1886.

The Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Maryland & Delaware

 Last landfall: none on record.

 Last offshore hurricane impact: Sandy in October 2012.

New Jersey

 Last landfall: September 1903.

 Last hurricane impact: Sandy in October 2012. Sandy lost tropical characteristics as it moved over cooler waters shortly before making landfall in New Jersey, but it remained a powerful area of low pressure. The effects were destructive despite this technical distinction.

New York

 Last landfall: Gloria in September 1985.

 Last offshore hurricane impact: Sandy in October 2012.

 Last major landfall: Carol in August 1954.

(Originally, Gloria had been reported as a Category 2 or 3 strike on Long Island, but an expert reanalysis concluded that it was more likely Category 1.)

 Most intense landfall: "Long Island Express/Great New England" hurricane in September 1938.

New England states

 Last landfall: Bob in August 1991.

 Last major landfall: Carol in August 1954.

 Most intense landfall: "Long Island Express/Great New England" hurricane in September 1938.

The Islands

Puerto Rico

 Last landfall, also a major hurricane: Maria in September 2017.

U.S. Virgin Islands

 Last hurricane strike: Dorian in August 2019.

 Last major (and most intense) landfall: Hugo in September 1989.

Hawaii

 Last landfall, also major and the most intense on record: Iniki in September 1992.

Why do some places get hit more often than others?

It's part geography, and part meteorology.

States with a relatively short coastline compared to its neighbors, like Mississippi and Alabama, are essentially a smaller target. So over time, direct landfalls are less frequent there compared to their larger neighboring states like Florida or Louisiana. Hurricanes, of course, aren't aware of where our boundaries are drawn.

But a hurricane will 'feel' the effects of the cooler ocean temperatures off the Northeast United States, especially early in summer or late in autumn. That makes it harder for a hurricane to maintain its strength or status as it heads north to the Mid-Atlantic or New England. At some point it may weaken to a tropical storm like Irene in 2011 or morph to a post-tropical low like Sandy in 2012. The effects for such a densely-populated area can still be severe.

Steering winds in the atmosphere also cause some of the disparity in landfall risk on the East Coast. The prevailing winds during summer and fall are from the southwest or west. So once hurricanes trace the western edge of the Bermuda high and veer farther north, they're often being pushed a bit eastward and back out to sea. So places that jut out from the continent, like Florida and North Carolina (and Massachusetts, to some extent) are just more exposed and prone to taking the brunt of a storm. For places like Georgia or Maryland or Maine, which are somewhat nestled into the shape of the coastline, the odds are better that typical storms will make contact with some other landmass first. That can also weaken it.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
Standing in an auditorium at Roanoke College, where around 400 people gathered to hear him speak, the Rev. Jesse Jackson asked how many in the audience werent registered to vote locally.

Come on down. Come on down, he entreated as he waved people toward the front where organizers were waiting with registration forms.

Those concerned about the direction of health care, education, climate change policy and more must remember in November and show up at the polls, Jackson said.

All that weve fought for is on the chopping block, he said during another local stop he made Monday at High Street Baptist Church.

We must vote because its the right thing to do. There is power in the vote.

Jackson, a longtime civil rights figure who twice sought the presidency, arrived in Roanoke on Monday morning to kick off a three-day sweep of Virginia organized as part of his Healing and Rebuilding tour.

Jacksons Rainbow PUSH Coalition is leading a voter registration effort around the state to buoy turnout for Nov. 7 when Virginians will elect their next governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and House of Delegates representatives.

Virginia and New Jersey are the only states holding gubernatorial elections this year. Many communities also have local offices on the ballot.

Jackson, pointing to the climate in Washington, D.C., said the nation is facing a very tenuous situation in government and people must make themselves heard at the ballot box.

Some who grow disillusioned with the process start to question the significance of voting, he said, but they must remember not to let setbacks silence their voice.

If you try to put water on a fire and that fire doesnt go out, you dont give up on water, he said. You get more water.

Jackson, 75, went on to reflect on the history of the civil rights movement and urged Virginia to join 10 other states that automatically register people to vote once they turn 18.

He supported removing Confederate monuments, which he described as the source of great pain, and said he was deeply troubled by the recent resurgence of white nationalist groups.

The pain of Charlottesville still haunts us very much, he said. There is too much hatred, violence, ignorance and fear coming between us.

People must come together to break through the false walls and fears that seek to divide them, he said. The most pressing issues facing the nation, such as poverty, arent limited to one demographic and will take all people working together to solve.

That becomes our great mission, he said.  We must learn to live together as brothers and sisters. Not die apart as fools.

Jackson, who has events set up Tuesday in Central Virginia, Southside and Hampton Roads, started his local visit Monday morning at High Street Baptist, a church once led by Noel Taylor, Roanokes first black mayor.

His appearance there brought together some 120 pastors, community members and local elected officials, including Vice Mayor Anita Price and Sheriff Tim Allen.

He next headed for a town hall event organized by the Roanoke College Democrats and attended by students and members of the public. Del. Sam Rasoul served as moderator.

Myles Cooper, a Roanoke College senior and president of the student Democrats, said afterward that meeting Jackson had been an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

He and his peers are gearing up to play an active role in voter registration and outreach efforts as the election approaches.

We want to help reshape and rebuild Virginia, Cooper said.
When white supremacists stormed through Charlottesville last month  leaving one person dead and more than 30 others injured  the violence echoed dark days long past.

On Friday, a panel of legal experts at the University of Virginia School of Law attempted to contextualize the events of Aug. 11 and 12 within the greater scope of American history  particularly moments such as Reconstruction, 20th-century Ku Klux Klan violence and the civil rights movement.

The panel also analyzed what civil rights enforcement has so far looked like under President Donald Trumps administration, including stricter voting requirements.

Stuart Delery, a partner at the Washington office of Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP and former acting associate attorney general, said he watched the events in Charlottesville in horror, and recoiled at the presidents failure to understand and condemn the actions of white supremacists.

Seeing those columns of white supremacists marching down the Lawn, with fire and hate, was an echo of history that I studied while at UVa, Delery said.

Looking at the period between the Civil War and the civil rights movement, Delery said it was important to note that most Confederate monuments  like the statues of Gen. Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson in Charlottesville  were put up long after the war ended, most of them in the 1920s.

Immediately following the Civil War and in the days of Jim Crow, most public anger was focused on African-American participation in the political process, Delery said. In those days, the white supremacists campaign was not hidden and was very successful, as vigilante groups like the KKK waged violence and terror, he said.

It took half a century, he said, for the courts to enforce federal voting laws, which culminated with the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

That act reopened the door to minorities in the political process, Delery said.

Turning to the Trump administration, Delery said some of those efforts to prevent minorities from voting have begun to resurface. Decisions to increase photo identification requirements and cutting same-day voting registration, he said, make it much harder for minorities to vote  and echo the literacy tests and poll taxes of the Jim Crow era.

We should hope we have moved beyond our history, but at the same time, we need to be clear-eyed and assess what still needs to be done, Delery said. Current events are not separate from history.

When white supremacists marched through UVa  weve seen that before, he said.

***

Speaking about her experience growing up in the Congo before moving to the United States in high school, Chantale Fiebig, also an attorney at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, said it was strange to see the differences between white and black people in the U.S. after she enrolled at UVa.

I never viewed myself as black, Fiebig said. I never felt the weight of ancestors brought here as slaves. I felt privileged it was a burden I did not have to bear.

With experience working on litigation against Virginias former ban of same-sex marriage and personally representing one of the journalists arrested for rioting during protests after Trumps election, Fiebig said she was dismayed, but not surprised, that white supremacists came to Charlottesville.

Its harder to deny now that feelings of racism still exist, she said. I hope that people will remember to remain vigilant.

Angela Ciolfi, director of litigation and advocacy at the Legal Aid Justice Center, said with Trumps inability to deny the equivalency of white supremacists and anti-racism protesters, its clear that the issues that inspired the events in Charlottesville have deep roots.

We can no longer rely on federal agencies to enforce laws, Ciolfi said. The courts have become much more important. State-level advocacy is more important.

We cant just be passionate, we need to have a strategy, she said. We need to fight racism from every angle.

Taking the conversation hyper local, James Hingeley, Albemarle County public defender and a member of the executive committee of the Albemarle-Charlottesville NAACP, told the story of Gregory Swanson, who in 1950 became the first African-American to be admitted to the UVa School of Law.

His story tells a strategy that will apply to today  how to advance civil rights, Hingeley said.

Swanson was already a lawyer when he applied to UVa, Hingeley said, but he wanted to break the color barrier in universities at the time, particularly in the South. The Board of Visitors opposed his admission, however, so Swanson took them to court, represented by Thurgood Marshall and Oliver Hill.

The hearing took place at the old federal courthouse, in what is now the downtown branch of the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library  right next to Emancipation Park, the site of the Aug. 12 violence. Swanson won his case and was admitted to the law school.

Its something that can give us some hope that we can see we have a positive history in this community that has moved us toward eradicating bigotry and inequality, said Hingeley.

***

Turning to the events leading up to the Aug. 12 rally, Hingeley said the City Council should have made it clearer from the beginning that the rally was a free speech issue. Because people were asking the city not to allow the rally to happen, Hingeley said, it was paramount to explain why it could not have been banned.

We need to help people understand and value the constitutional protections for free speech, he said.

Just days before the scheduled rally, the city  which Hingeley said was feeling public pressure  decided to move the rallys permit from Emancipation Park to McIntire Park, citing public safety concerns. In response, rally organizers sued the city and successfully obtained an injunction from a federal judge.

Citing the citys inability to show that the purpose of moving the rally was due to public safety, Hingeley said the court viewed the move as a backlash to the message of the rally.

The city failed to revoke the permits of counter-protest rallies in the same place, Hingeley said. It put it in a context that allowed the court to say they dont believe the concerns are related to safety, but rather to the content of their rally.

If the city had made it clear that the community disagrees with the white supremacist message, but also agreed to their right to free expression, Hingeley said, the city might have had a better chance in court.

Even when we dont really want to hear what the white supremacists are saying, we still have to be champions for the First Amendment, he said. In terms of strategy, the stronger we are in support of it, the better chance we have of controlling situations like these.

Adding that concerned citizens had brought hundreds of threats of violence on social media to the attention of the council, Ciolfi said city officials could have used those examples as evidence to support their concerns about public safety.

I think First Amendment issues are important, but dont think it protects violence, Ciolfi said. They won because I dont think the city did a good job of marshalling evidence.

There was adequate evidence presented to the city, added Hingeley. It could have been presented to the court and could have resulted in a different outcome.
Richmond officials proclaimed a return to normal a day after dueling protests at the Robert E. Lee statue on Monument Avenue, but promised vigilance after the largely peaceful confrontation.

We are not letting our guard down, Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham said in a statement on Sunday morning.

Durham and Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney expressed thanks to people who stayed home from the protest by a pro-Confederate group and counterprotests by their opponents, while praising law enforcements handling of the volatile situation.

The people of our city showed this weekend that we can rise above hate and violence, Stoney said in a noon statement. And while we may have difficult days and conversations ahead of us, I am confident that we can come together as a community to build a better city for all.

Stoney has appointed a commission to consider whether to remove or reframe the context of monuments erected to the former Confederacy and its leaders, especially on Monument Avenue, where they were erected as homage to a cause that many see as offensive, especially to the descendants of black slaves in the South.

The protest at the Lee statue in Richmond ended far differently than a white nationalist rally at the Confederate generals monument in Charlottesville last month. That rally, organized locally but attended by a wide range of white nationalist and neo-Nazi organizations from across the country, turned violent, with one counterprotester killed after a rally participant drove a car into a crowd.

Two Virginia State Police helicopter pilots who had been monitoring the protest from above also died after their aircraft plummeted into the woods because of an apparent mechanical failure.

In contrast, the rally in Richmond ended with no injuries or accidents, and just seven arrests, including one charge police believe was not directly related to the protest itself.

Barricades were taken down, no-parking restrictions lifted and all streets were reopened hours earlier than anticipated so as not to further inconvenience the residents, police said in a statement. Crowds at any given time throughout the day never exceeded more than a few hundred participants.

Just seven people, representing a Tennessee group called the New Confederate States of America, stood in protest on the west side of the Lee monument for about an hour and a half, while a group of several hundred counterprotesters confronted them after marching peacefully from the Maggie L. Walker statue downtown.

The pro-Confederate group blamed counterprotesters for allegedly slashing tires on the organizers truck and vowed on its Facebook page to take legal action against all individuals involved, up to and including the city of Richmond and the state of Virginia. Richmond police said they had no further information about the incident.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia monitored the rally and counterprotest to ensure police respected peoples rights. Im not aware that there were any major concerns about the policing of the event, ACLU spokesman Bill Farrar said.

However, observers challenged the arrest of one counterprotester, Brittany D. Bush, 29, of Petersburg, who was charged with disorderly conduct after a verbal confrontation with a pro-Confederate protester.

It was intense; it was a very heated argument, said Jason Taylor, a Museum District resident who stood a few feet away. However, it wasnt physical in any way.

Taylor said the confrontation began after the Confederate supporter, who was African-American, loudly denounced protesters for Black Lives Matter. Bush, who also is African-American, confronted him. Police swooped in when she moved toward him and pointed her finger, but Taylor said the Confederate sympathizer told police he had not felt threatened and asked them not to arrest her.

It happened extremely quickly, Taylor said of the arrest.

Police declined to comment beyond a statement on Saturday that said Bush had been arrested after she was observed loudly threatening a bystander with whom she had become combative.

Richmond Commonwealths Attorney Michael Herring said Sunday that his office will review any charges made in arrests related to the rally.

I told police I wanted them to exercise an appropriate but low tolerance, Herring said, and we would decide whether we would go forward after the individuals. And Im good with that.

Four counterprotesters  two from Northern Virginia, one from Georgia and another from New York  were arrested on charges of wearing masks in public during a march that circled through the Fan District later in the afternoon. Herring said the charges are based on a state law that requires proof that the person fully concealed his or her face, and intended to do so.

Police said they made two arrests related to firearms, but emphasized that both involved unlawful possession. Jabari Robinson, 21, of Roanoke, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon after police said they observed him with a long-barreled firearm with an over-sized ammunition magazine prohibited by state law.

Durham and Stoney praised Richmond police officers, as well as state and federal law enforcement, for their handling of the assemblies, which the city said it could not legally prevent.

The police chief reserved a special measure of thanks for Richmond residents and those who showed up to peacefully demonstrate.

I think many people heeded our advice and stayed home, Durham said. And those who did show up were provided with safe spaces to express their opinions thanks to the skill and professionalism of the officers who were on-post.  It was an A+ effort.
Lets consider the evidence.

He was sued for systematically refusing to rent to African-Americans and settled out of court.

He demanded the death penalty for five black and Hispanic kids charged in the notorious Central Park jogger rape case  and refuses to recant to this day, though the young men were long ago exonerated and set free.

He had a disdain for African-Americans so pronounced that, according to an employee at one of his casinos, supervisors would remove black workers from the floor and ensconce them in a back room whenever he came through.

He was once quoted as saying of a black accountant: Black guys counting my money! I hate it. The only kind of people I want counting my money are short guys that wear yarmulkes every day. I think that the guy is lazy. And its probably not his fault, because laziness is a trait in blacks. It really is, I believe that. Its not anything they can control.

He retweeted racist and anti-Semitic insults from Nazi sympathizers, called Mexican immigrants rapists and said a judge was unfit to preside over a case because of his Mexican heritage.

He led the inane birther movement that claimed President Obama was born in Kenya.

He suggested moral equivalence between white supremacists and those who oppose them.

He is embraced by bigots, who recognize him as one of their own. Said former Klan leader David Duke, We are determined to take our country back.  Thats what we believe in. Thats why we voted for Donald Trump 

So what, pray tell, did Jemele Hill get wrong? Last week, the co-host of ESPNs SportsCenter issued tweets calling the so-called president, among other things, a white supremacist who has largely surrounded himself w/ other white supremacists.

Youd have thought she advocated kindergarten classes in Satanism from the speed with which ESPN disavowed her for what it called inappropriate tweets. Hill would eventually apologize for putting the company in such an awkward position. But ESPNs response was mild compared to the White Houses rebuke. Spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders pronounced Hills tweets a fireable offense.

Really? Well, if Hill deserves firing for calling Trump a white supremacist, then what does he get for actually being one?

But we already know the answer, dont we? Donald John Trump is a man whose cognitive and moral deficits would, in a sane country, render him unfit to clean toilets at a reasonably respectable strip club. But he became president. And as Ta-Nehisi Coates argues in the new issue of The Atlantic, he was elected largely because of his racism  not despite it  having run on an implicit promise to restore white primacy after eight years of the black interloper Obama.

And here, someone will protest that she voted for Trump, but doesnt consider herself a white supremacist. Yet that hypothetical voter and 63 million others did vote  knowingly  for white supremacy even if they disavow the ideology for themselves. So whats the material difference?

There is none. Thats a bitter truth some of us would prefer not to face, indicting as it does cherished myths about ourselves and our country and how we overcame.

For the record, the only fireable offense here is Trumps impersonation of a president. But make no mistake: Even if he is held accountable in 2020, it wont fix, or even address, that frightened, primitive thing inside them that led so many to reach out to him in the first place.

So the fact of the matter is, Jemele Hill got nothing wrong. No, shes in trouble because she did the opposite.

She told entirely too much truth.

Pitts is a columnist for The Miami Herald who is syndicated by the Tribune Content Agency.
Every American school child once was required to learn the names of the three ships that sailed with Columbus on his first voyage to the New World  the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria.

Virginia students had to learn the names of three more ships, the ones that first brought settlers to Jamestown  the Susan Constant, the Godspeed and the Discovery.

Here are three more ships whose names might be important to those of us living in this part of Virginia  the Creole Spirit, the Clean Ocean and the Arctic Discoverer.

Those three ships explain one of the many reasons why the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is likely to approve the Mountain Valley Pipeline when it meets on Thursday (other than the fact that FERCs history is that it approves just about every pipeline project it sees).

In April 2016, the Creole Spirit set out from Sabine Pass, Louisiana, loaded with 174,000 cubic meters of liquefied natural gas that it delivered to Portugal. That marked the first time the United States had ever exported liquefied natural gas to Europe. How much is 174,000 cubic meters, you might ask? According to LNG World News, thats about one weeks worth of natural gas for Portugal.

In May 2017, the Clean Ocean and Arctic Discover also set out from the Sabine Pass terminal  bound for Poland and the Netherlands, respectively. Those two shipments marked the first time the United States had delivered natural gas to northern Europe. In the case of the Clean Ocean delivery to Poland, it also represented the first time the United States has delivered natural gas to a former Warsaw Pact nation.

Why is all this important?

The United States has always exported some natural gas, but virtually all of it went via pipeline to our two North American neighbors, Canada and Mexico. A smidge went overseas, mostly to Japan. That smidge was so small that as recently as 2013, the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows precisely zero ships of liquefied natural gas setting sail from American ports. Then came the development of the natural gas fields in the nations two new energy hotspots  North Dakota, and the Marcellus/Utica shale fields of the Appalachians. Since then, natural gas exports have spiked in almost a straight line  increasing more than elevenfold from 2015 to 2016.

In 2014, the United States exported natural gas to just one country beyond North America  Japan. In 2015, it exported natural gas to two  Japan and Taiwan. In 2016, gas was exported to 18 different countries. This year, that figure will be higher still, with those exports to Poland looming large in geopolitical terms that well circle back to.

Ever since the first oil shock of 1973-4, every U.S. president has vowed that the nation should become energy independent. None have achieved that lofty goal. However, the president elected in 2024 probably will. Thats because earlier this year the Energy Department issued a report that the United States is now on track to not just become energy independent, but an actual net energy exporter, by 2026.

How will this happen? The development of renewable energy  wind and solar  has helped some. Every kilowatt from the wind and sun means a kilowatt were not buying from some foreign autocrat such as Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro. But the big difference, the Energy Department tells us, is that huge surge in natural gas. (If youre curious, that Energy Department report was issued while Barack Obama was still president so this was not propaganda from a fossil fuel-friendly Trump administration.)

The United States, in a few short years, has basically become the Saudi Arabia of natural gas. Thats why were seeing a spider-web of natural gas pipelines being planned across the East Coast to get that gas to market.

The proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline is mostly a Dominion Resources project, for the benefit of that Richmond-based utility that serves eastern Virginia and parts of North Carolina. Dominion says it needs the gas; opponents say it doesnt. Either way, though, its clear where the customers are.

The proposed Mountain Valley Pipeline is a different matter. A little bit of that gas would get siphoned off to Roanoke Gas no small thing if youre a Roanoke Gas customer, or a potential Roanoke Gas customer. Its hard to see how the new business park in Franklin County reaches its full potential if theres not natural gas available. In the context of the pipeline, though, thats almost an afterthought. Virtually all the MVP gas is simply passing through on its way to, well, who knows where. The line would terminate in Chatham, where it would feed into other lines.

For pipeline opponents, thats yet another reason to oppose the line. Besides the environmental concerns, theres the objection that this pipeline doesnt really benefit us. For us, its all pain, almost no gain. Instead, the beneficiaries might not even be fellow Americans. That might be a persuasive argument in many communities. However, its likely to have exactly the opposite impact before federal regulators, especially with President Trumps new appointees.

In July, Trump visited Poland. He got lots of attention for a foreign policy speech in which he declared his defense of Western civilization. He got less attention for the other thing he said there: We are committed to securing your access to alternate sources of energy, so Poland and its neighbors are never again held hostage to a single supplier of energy.

Translation: Trump wants the U.S. to sell natural gas to eastern Europe, so its not dependent on pipelines from Russia. Some may think Trump is in cahoots with Moscow, but selling natural gas to Russias gas customers is actually a very anti-Russian move. It also means theres a national security argument for American natural gas exports: Were making it impossible for Russia to blackmail Europe by threatening to cut off its heat during the winter. And if Europe is buying our gas, that means its not sending its euros to prop up a hostile Russian kleptocracy.

Framed that way, you know who would like to see fewer natural gas pipelines in the United States? Umm, Vladimir Putin.

Its hard to know what, if any, anti-pipeline arguments that FERC would find compelling, but the argument that the MVP gas might be for export isnt one of them.
Lce-Cpl Thomas Norman Jackson

A PLAQUE will be unveiled next week at a special service in memory of a hero soldier from Swinton.

The bravery of Lce-Cpl Thomas Norman Jackson during the First World War will be honoured by a tribute at the towns railway station.

The Railway Heritage Trust, the Victoria Cross Association, Network Rail and Northern Rail have teaned up with The Royal British Legion to hold the commemoration service from 10.30am on Wednesday (27).

Lce-Cpl Jackson was killed in action while serving in France with the Coldstream Guards on the September 27, 1918.

His family were presented with his Victoria Cross, by The King, on Saturday, March 29, 1919.

A plaque will be unveiled in the waiting room at Mexborough Railway Station, by a member of Lce-Cpl Jacksons family in memory of the soldier, who was born in Swinton and employed at the Mexborough Locomotive Depot.

The Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr Eve Rose Keenan, and The Civic Mayor of Doncaster, Cllr George Derx, will both attend the ceremony, which is open to the public.
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe claimed early 2016 that $13 billion was lost through leakages since diamond mining began in Marange in 2006.

A local non-governmental organisation, Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) then said last July that the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KP) could have assisted Mugabes ruling ZANU PF to plunder diamond revenues since 2011.

If Zimbabwe cannot account for diamonds worth $13 billion then it is hard for the KPCS to assure consumers it is doing a good job keeping conflict diamonds out of circulation, it said.

The KPCS remained mum following President Mugabes shock confession. No fact-finding mission was dispatched to Zimbabwe, at least to assure diamond consumers the incident was a misnomer and the KPCS was taking remedial action.

The KPCS could have turned a blind eye to the Marange scandal because it didnt want to be embroiled in yet another hotly disputed matter involving Zimbabwe. Between 2010 and 2011 Zimbabwe threatened to break up the KPCS if it was not allowed to unconditionally export its diamonds, claiming it had surpassed the KPCS minimum standards.

Mugabe does not share the same theory peddled by CNRG as he was a victim of the deceiving miners.

He said in June this year that the Chinese companies  Anjin and Jinan  that operated in Marange until February 2016 used him as he was made to wave dummy cheques.

The Chinese diamond miners allegedly pledged $10 million to develop communities affected by mining activities, but nothing materialised.

The Chinese used us and that is why we kicked them out, Mugabe was quoted by NewsDay as saying at the time to thousands of his supporters in Mutare.

Even me, an old man, I feel used. They made me walk around waving dummy cheques, yet they never fulfilled the promise they gave. We then had a misunderstanding with the Chinese and we kicked them out along with the South Africans and the Lebanese. They lied to me, but we will not forget the people of Manicaland.

Such deception and alleged pillaging of diamond revenue was the reason, as Mugabe openly boasted, Harare pushed the diamond companies out.

The government then established the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) in March 2016 to promote transparency and stop smuggling.

The Chinese resisted the consolidation of diamond operations in Marange, but Mugabe claimed that they were defeated in court.

They went to court, but lost. This has slowed us down, but I can assure you that once we are mining and selling our diamonds, we will fulfil the promise made, not by government, but by the Chinese, he said.

Zimbabwes mines minister Walter Chidakwa also sensationally claimed last July that a group of suspected diamond looters once plotted to assassinate him when he stopped mining operations in Marange last year.

Its difficult to manage diamonds. There are some people, who benefited from diamonds. Some are Zimbabweans, he was quoted as saying by NewsDay.

Its not me who stopped diamond mining of companies in Chiadzwa. It is President Robert Mugabe. Even minister Mushohwe knows that we sat after a Cabinet meeting and the President asked me if I feared dealing with these mining companies and you know when the President says that, I had to take action.

Today, I want to make it clear that if you were part of the looting, please stop it. After I stopped them (diamond companies), they reported to other ministers, but the ministers referred them back to me. Some even cried in my office and I had to give them tissue paper (to wipe away tears). Some even suggested taking me out, but God protects us.

So, he was the man who sort to clean the mess in Marange.

Crocodile tears

Sceptics, however, find it difficult to accept that Harare was not complicit in the pillaging of the countrys diamond revenue.

The very same people who are screaming on top of their voices that we were robbed, ignored ex-finance minister during the government of national unity (GNU), Tendai Bitis calls to plug diamond looting in the country.

He claimed then that there was a limited flow of diamond revenue to the Treasury despite the fact that the government owned part of all diamond companies in Marange.

Biti was forced to cut Zimbabwes budget in 2012 to $3.4 billion from $4 billion after receiving $41 million from $600 million that he expected from diamond sales.

However, his colleagues from President Robert Mugabes ZANU PF party in the GNU as well as the diamond miners denied allegations of poor remittances.

It is either he (Biti) is untruthful, incompetent or illiterate. He made the blunder and miscalculated. He must be man enough and admit that he made a mistake, said Anjin board member Munyaradzi Machacha in 2012.

He must tell the nation where the money we gave to Treasury is.

Interestingly, months after the end of the GNU in 2013, the ZANU-PF led government started saying that there was a poor remittance of diamond revenue from Marange by miners.

One wonders why there was a sudden change of the tune, given that their hymn during the GNU was leakages were a figment of Bitis imagination.

This makes the Marange story somewhat difficult to understand as it was shrouded in a dark of secrecy.

I doubt KP even had a full picture of what was going on in the vast diamond fields.

Officials in Harare promised a new start with ZCDC telling anyone who bothered to listen that it was no longer business as usual.

Their messages had been very positive.

"The ongoing reforms in diamonds and the coal industry are already seeing the turn-around of these sub-sectors, providing impetus for higher growth of mining," finance minister Patrick Chinamasa said last July.

"With the capitalisation of the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Mining Company (ZCDC) diamonds output during the first half of 2017 were 1,1 million carats against 690 000 carats produced during the previous year."

However, there was something wrong with the figures being bandied with reckless abandon.

For a country that claimed to be revamping the diamond industry and promoting transparency, this was a difficult sale.

How do we reconcile Harares figures with the data released by the Kimberley Process, which indicated that the country produced 2,1 million carats in 2016 worth $105 million?

The discrepancy in production figures was not the only issue worrisome as security in Marange was also a matter of concern.

In July, the local media claimed that an illegal diamond miner was killed while three were seriously injured after they were shot by ZCDC guards in Marange.

The Herald newspaper reported that ZCDC security guards exchanged fire with 200 armed illegal diamond miners who broke into the companys premises around 3am on July 18.

ZCDC chief executive Moris Mpofu, however, said that there was no security threat at the mine and the situation was under control.

The state-owned diamond company had a lot of work and convincing to do to ensure it gains the public trust.

Genuine transparency was sine qua non, especially for a diamond mining company.

Zimbabwes neighbours are raking in millions if not billions of dollars from diamond mining every year, helping shore up their national coffers.

The same can be done in the country if they are genuine about real transparency and servanthood.

Zimbabwe recently announced that it discovered new areas away from Marange that might have diamondiferous kimberlites.

If this proves to be true, then the country had another opportunity to conduct its diamond mining industry in a professional and transparent manner for the betterment of the lives of many a people who are teeming in abject poverty.

Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished




Martin Leake is a PhD exploration geologist and Six Sigma black belt who has been involved in the rough diamond market since 2004.

He worked for BHP Billiton for 22 years and recently left Grib Diamonds where he helped set up a world-class marketing unit from scratch.

He is currently working as an independent consultant.

In an Interview with Rough&Polished, Martin Leake, who has seen it all - right from explorations to marketing - goes back in time to recall his experiences in the various positions that he had held during his long, fruitful career.

Some excerpts:

For clarity sake for our readers, we will focus on the diamond industry, though you are experienced across the natural resources industry. To begin with, your job with Grib Diamond NV, the Russian diamond mine to set up a sales office & marketing organization in Antwerp. Tell us all about that, and the efforts that you put in during the 3 years of your tenure with Grib.

Grib Diamonds NV was part of the LUKOIL Group of Companies who developed the Grib Diamond Mine 130km NW Arkhangelsk, Russian Federation. PJSC LUKOIL is one of the largest Oil Companies in the World. Russia has been producing diamonds since the 1950s but LUKOIL was the first major Russian producer to be selling outside the ALROSA Group. Whilst Russian legislation allowed this  no one had done this before on a significant scale.

LUKOIL completed a comprehensive study of the diamond business and different marketing models. As a major oil company, they understood market-based pricing and were confident with the concept of letting the market set the prices  in a similar way to what BHP Billiton Diamonds was doing. Credit goes to LUKOIL management team as they recognized that many diamond mining companies were not achieving actual market prices.

Following the sale of BHP Billiton Diamonds to Dominion Diamond Corp (DDC), LUKOIL approached Clive Hopwood and me to help set up a new Diamond marketing organization. This was an exciting opportunity to build a world-class business from scratch. From the outset, we set ourselves aggressive goals  we wanted to build a new small team that could sell 100% of production at competitive market-based prices with strict corporate governance and full integrity. LUKOIL had just spent over $1 billion on building a new mine and wanted to hit the ground running. There was no room for error.

Our initial focus was on People, Systems and Facilities. We were able to attract some of the best people in the industry who could deliver the highest level of quality control. We developed and implemented new operating systems to track inventory, enforce process discipline and measure/analyze performance. This back office system was critical because it enabled us to track every single diamond at each stage of the process. It ensured product integrity (zero diamond loss) and allows a full and continuous audit of the operation. We were fortunate to find a fully functional office with all the security features required to sell up to $500M rough per year.

We built a new online auction platform with an Australian company that had no prior knowledge of the diamond industry  Tradeslot. This new platform was developed based on the customer experience, using robust and secure technology and ensuring flexibility in the back office to allow the auctioneer to dynamically make decisions about reserve pricing. It is the best auction system I have seen in the industry and Tradeslot were excellent partners.

Whilst building the new operation we maintained a focus on our ability to deliver superior customer service, transparency and the ease of doing business with us whilst adhering to high standards of compliance.

We set up the new marketing operation in under a year  operating on half the budget, with half the people and delivering cash to the bank in half the time to the industry benchmark.

Because we had come from BHP Billiton we brought instant credibility to the sales operation and were able to immediately attract a large credible customer base. Our first few sales were about price discovery  finding out what a competitive market was prepared to pay for the Grib product. With any new product, customers have to manufacture some of the diamonds to understand the polished outcome and therefore the price. It was a difficult time in the market; Antwerp Diamond Bank (ADB) announced it was closing and the market tightened towards the end of 2014; there were also challenges with the colour and fluorescence of the Grib production. It took about four to five sales for our customers to understand the production and for us to get the assortments presented in the best way.

The Run of Mine production was very different to Ekati and we needed to focus on and target a slightly different customer base, which we did successfully. In the first 18 months, we sold over $220 million to 120 different customers.

I am proud that Grib Diamonds continues to operate in a highly professional manner and has become one of the rough diamond industry pricing benchmarks.

Besides building the online auction system for the company, what other operating systems did you customize for the Grib's sales & marketing office? How did you strategize the whole marketing & sales system in such a short period? Please elaborate.

We wanted to build a sustainable World Class marketing group based on industry best practice. We took the best practice from BHP Billiton and other operations and focused on simplification and cost control. I am very proud that this is exactly what we delivered and Grib continues to successfully operate in a highly professional way.

When building the operation there are some underlying themes that we used to guide us. These can be summarized as follows:

- Simplicity. Do not underestimate how hard it is to keep things simple. Simplicity is about focusing on what is critical to the business and eliminating unnecessary steps and costs.

- Do the basics brilliantly. Whilst this sounds obvious its also very hard. This is around Quality Control excellence, consistent sorting of the diamonds to a specific standard, measuring and continuously improving performance, maintaining process discipline and tracking the product at all times to guarantee zero diamond loss.

- Eliminate variation. In all businesses, customers will pay more for less variation. By measuring performance and being consistent with all the business processes we wanted to strive for perfection.

- Transparency. Being as open with the customers as possible. Again, this sounds easy but its hard. Sharing the sorting results and previous auction prices to help customers de-risk the transaction. Its about having shared eyes with the customers (seeing the diamonds as they see them) and having real discussions about the consistency of the sorting line  and owning up to mistakes.

- Customer service and looking for genuine win-win solutions. This is about finding real mutually beneficial solutions and ensuring all customers are treated equally with a high level of respect.

Accompanying these guiding principles were two evils in the rough diamond industry that we wanted to avoid. These were complexity and illusion.

Complexity is failed simplicity and increases chances for errors, costs and mistakes.

The illusion is about being deceitful with your customer. There is often talk of the illusion in rough diamonds but I believe it creates an asymmetry of information between the buyer and seller, which makes it harder to realize the full market price for your diamonds.

How daunting was the experience for you to organize to sell rough diamond of high worth to a large number of clients in a short time period, not to forget the high level of corporate governance and compliance to adhere? Can you give us some insight into that space?

It was an exciting project to build a world class marketing organization from scratch. LUKOIL was concerned about the reputation of the diamond industry and therefore demanded the highest level of compliance from us. They were also extremely thorough in their oversight and very professional. The first general manager of Grib Diamonds Alexey Genkin came from a banking and finance background and brought a rigorous discipline of checks and balances to the operating model. He was a fast learner and continues to run Grib very professionally.

Corporate governance and compliance are part of my DNA and the way I operate. I see them as a critical part of the business and a way of ensuring objective decisions get made whilst protecting your staff. For me, compliance ensures that in the cut throat world of the diamond business there is a level playing field and is an important enabler for the diamond industry to operate and source financing in the new regulatory environment.

When I started at BHP Billiton Diamonds Marketing, I was surprised to suddenly being offered many gifts (such as expensive wine). I was always concerned about this gift giving culture as I felt it could blur decision-making. One of the drivers behind changing the marketing system to an auction based mechanism was to allow customers to compete with each other on a transparent, fair and competitive basis. The market drove the decisions on who got what goods and at what price. Our relationship with the customers changed and the discussions became more about how we can jointly add value. In the last year before BHP Billiton sold Ekati, we received one bottle of wine - from the Office Depot!!

What are the 'highlights' during your tenure with BHP Billiton & BHP Billiton Pty Ltd, where you spent many years of your career?

I enjoyed a long and diverse career with BHP Billiton. BHP had sponsored my PhD and enabled me to travel the world  worked with many fantastic people in many wonderful locations. Lived in eight countries over a 12-year period before settling in Diamonds Marketing in Belgium  primarily for family reasons. Antwerp is a fantastic city. During my time with BHP Billiton, I worked at the extreme ends of the companys businesses, in exploration and marketing.

For me personally, the highlight would have to be introducing the auction system into the rough diamond market. We changed the sales mechanism from a multi-channel system where BHP Billiton set the prices and allocations based on market intelligence, market feedback, and Rough to Polish expertise (RtoP), to a competitive market driven system using auction and game theory. We took a company wide strategy of selling at the price of the day and introduced this into an opaque market with no published price index. We developed a strategy for selling 100% of the production through a competitive, transparent and fair auction based system. 50% of the product from Ekatis production went towards price discovery  a Uniform Price Auction that defined the Spot Price. The remaining 50% of production was sold via auction through long Term contracts, at a price related to the most recent Spot Price. Specials were also sold via Multi-round Ascending Clock Auctions.

In September 2008 we had launched the initial pilot for Term contracts, which were sold via auction at a price to be determined by the Spot Market. One month later in October 2008, just after Lehmann Brother collapsed we made our first full Spot sale via auction. The global commodity markets were in meltdown. Prices for most commodities like Copper, Nickel and Iron Ore had fallen by over 70%. Credit lines were frozen. It was a frightening time to be in business.

In our auction, we saw competitive bidding for the rough diamonds but at significantly lower prices  overall prices were down by 32%. This caused an uproar in the diamond industry as rough prices had never fallen by so much. It was highly controversial in part because we let the customers participating in the auction know the results. This transparency was key to the change we were making. However, it led to significant inventory revaluations, which were unheard of diamonds. BHP Billiton was not the most popular company in the industry. However, we were selling at the market price, the mine was receiving cash (and was still just profitable), the customers were making a profit and we had full visibility on the market. Unlike other sales methodologies, our transparent system allowed us to continue selling throughout the crisis.

Over the next four months, the markets remained frozen and we saw prices decline another 20% as the market became increasingly uncompetitive.

By early 2009 the market was down 49% from the high of August 2008 and we had the first major auction for long Term supply. Senior management naturally had some concerns and some contingency plans were made. The first full term auction in Feb 2009 was successful and we sold all the contracts at an average premium of 3% above the Spot Price. This was the first sign of green shoots in the market. In March / April De Beers and Rio Tinto, both announced they would temporarily close their mines. Between March 2009 and May, 2010 rough diamond prices went up over 120% and Ekati made record profits, with sales over $1 billion between 2010 and 2012.

The auction system created something the primary rough market hadnt had before - competition and resulted in BHP realizing additional margins. This meant that we were out performing other producers and a benchmark study showed that BHP prices were on average 16% higher than Rio Tinto and De Beers prices over a five year period from 2008 to 2013.

Since launching the auction system it has been replicated by various other companies. Advances have been made in understanding the auction design and I am sure there are many more advancements that will continue to be made with auction technology and systems.

And what led to the takeover of BHP Billiton's Ekati Diamond mine by Dominion Diamond Corporation? Was handling that period a critical period for you? Any anecdotes that you can recall?

For BHP Billiton it was a question of simplifying the portfolio. We had been trying to grow the business for a long time and failed in our efforts to discover, merge or take over other diamond mines.

BHP Billiton was a diversified resource company with multiple product lines and it wanted to focus on its biggest revenue streams, which were Iron Ore, Petroleum, Copper and Coal. Ekati was a very profitable mine  making 30-50% EBIT margins, but it was only ever 1-2% of the Group profits. In BHP Billiton a tiny sector  Diamonds - had to compete for capital against giant iron ore, petroleum and copper projects. The rich deposits at Ekati were coming to an end of their mine life and a smaller, focused company like DDC would, in theory, be able to extract more value from Ekati than it was worth to BHP Billiton. DDC have demonstrated this by adding new resources and extending Ekatis mine life.

A competitive sales process resulted in DDC selling its retail business and buying Ekati. It was an uncertain time for all those involved in the transaction. For me personally, I was most pleased that it happened without any product integrity issues. Mining companies handle millions of individual stones and product-handling errors occur when people get distracted or there is a lack of process discipline. Staying focused and ensuring all our staff remained fully professional was a key role for the leadership team. Overall the transition went well and DDC was professional during the take-over.

Besides your association with Marketing and Sales, you have also been closely associated with explorations in Canada & Australia. What are your experiences in the exploration field? Please give us an overview of those years.

I was part of the team that discovered of some of the pipes on the Ekati property and sighted the initial drill hole that led to the discovery of the Pigeon kimberlite. This pipe is now in full production as part of the Ekati Diamond Mine.

Being an exploration geologist was a fantastic experience  I was being paid to travel to the most amazing and remote places on the planet to look for diamonds, gold, copper, iron ore and coal. But its a young mans game and when I had a family I needed to follow a career which kept the family in one location.

Now I live in Belgium  a geography that works well for our family.

Do you think the diamond business is forever? While some feel a day may come when all the diamonds inside the earth will get exhausted, while others feel diamonds are in abundance in the ground but mining companies shrewdly control supply. Do you see any solutions here?

The diamond industry is going through significant changes but I am very optimistic for the future.

The biggest challenge is that the diamond industry is opaque and this gives rise to many conspiracy theories  such as mining companies are keeping goods in the ground!

Mining companies are focused on making money by operating at the optimal production rates from a cost prospective.They want to get the cash in the bank as fast as they can once the goods have been dug up and they want to receive the best price for their diamonds.They have to do this safely and maintain their license to operate through compliance with environmental regulations and working with the local communities and governments.

I am bullish on the future of the diamond business and there are three areas driving this optimism; new discoveries, extending mine life of existing operations and the increasing demand for diamonds that will result in higher prices.

Diamonds are rare. Finding an economic kimberlite is extremely difficult and costs a lot of money. Building a new diamond mine is also extremely expensive. However, the rewards are great and there is still so much of the planet that has not been explored with the latest technology. I am very confident that new diamond fields will be discovered in the next 10 years.

In the existing mines, new technology will improve recoveries and make previously uneconomic ore profitable. Today many mines are starting to reprocess the tailings and recover diamonds that were missed the first time around. I am always sceptical when I hear that a mine has only 10 years worth of reserves left.

If you believe, as I do that the number of people in the middle classes will continue to grow over time you have to be in diamonds. Historically there is a strong correlation between GDP and growth in demand for diamonds. Critical to this is the generic promotion being undertaken by the Diamond Producers Association, but I am confident that the long-term outlook for diamond prices is positive.

We presume that for the last one year you are on your own as a consultant. In what areas of the Management systems do you offer your consultancy services? And do you dabble in providing consultancy services in diamond explorations as well? Your comments.

Since leaving Grib Diamonds I have been doing some consulting work whilst continually looking out for a quality project that I could take further and help deliver a superior level of performance. I offer a number of services as an independent consultant mostly around strategy, market pricing, business reviews, project management and auction design.

I have been enjoying project work in the diamond, gemstone and mineral sands industries but would be quite happy to diversify further as there are many strands that would be common to many sectors.

The synthetic /lab made diamonds have been discussed for decades. Now mixing of these with natural diamonds have taken such a position, threatening to affect customer confidence in diamonds and the future looks bleak. Your views?

My biggest fear for synthetic diamonds is they enter the market by stealth  undisclosed. Imagine the uproar and damage to the Diamond brand if a consumer discovers that they actually bought a synthetic diamond when they thought they were buying the real thing. This would have wide reaching implications for everyone in the industry  both on the natural and lab grown side.

I am not worried about the competition legitimate lab grown diamonds pose to the diamond industry  I actually welcome it. I think there is a market for lab grown diamonds that complement the existing industry and want to see both sides of the industry work together.

The intrinsic value of natural diamonds is that they are natures gift and extremely rare. Diamond mines are very difficult and expensive to find. Lab grown diamonds are a technology play where there is no barrier to entry. Like plasma TVs, they are a novelty and exciting when they first come out but as they become popular you will get more producers all competing on price which will result in a race to the bottom.

The Diamond Industry should not be complacent about the challenge posed by Lab grown diamonds. They are molecularly the same as natural diamonds. But, they have a different value proposition and the industry needs to ensure it stays focused on the three D strategy of Detection, Disclosure and Differentiation.

What is your opinion of the global diamond industry currently, especially in the rough pricing space? Also, on the direction the industry is moving; the challenges; the rather opaque pricing system; lack of transparency and ethics, etc. Your views, please.

To quote a Chinese curse may you live in interesting times I think the Diamond Industry is facing a number of challenges. There are issues with financing, profitability, undisclosed synthetics, consumer confidence, generic advertising and volatility. We are seeing increased fragmentation upstream with small new miners directly selling their product. This is good for competition and gives the mid-stream more choice, however, it will also result in greater volatility in rough prices. The diamond industry is very badly positioned to manage volatility in the rough because of the opaque pricing and lack of transparency.

Buying rough is essentially buying futures in polished  however, as the diamond cutters and polishers buy for cash but sell on credit they are taking a significant price risk. As there is no way of hedging the polished prices manufacturers have to manage this risk and the only way that can work effectively is with greater transparency in pricing and the creation of credible price indices for both rough and polished. This would also potentially open the market up to various different financial products and bring in alternative sources of finance.

Aruna Gaitonde, Editor-in-Chief of Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished
Williamson production to remain suspended for up to three months  Petra Petra Diamonds says a preliminary estimate suggests that production at its 75%-owned Williamson diamond mine in Tanzania will be temporarily suspended for up to three months until a new tailings storage facility (TSF) is commissioned.

Chinas wholesale gold demand dips due to seasonality and COVID disruptions in October The average Shanghai-London gold price premium remained elevated in October but fell during the second half of the month as COVID-related uncertainty clouded local gold demand prospects. Seasonal weakness and COVID-related disruptions weighed on Octobers...

Nornickel introduces automated remote-controlled drilling at Norilsk mines The automated drilling technology significantly enhances performance, improves safety, and ensures a stable workflow and delivery against the targets.



Iamgold revises 2022 production guidance upwards Dual-listed Iamgold produced 184 000 ounces (oz) in the third quarter from three of its operations compared to 153 000 oz, a year earlier. Of the three operations, its 90%-owned Essakane Mine in Burkina Faso delivered strong results and achieved...
The World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) held its Executive Committee meeting along with the Asia-Pacific Presidents Summit in Macau on September 10 and 11, discussing a range of crucial issues affecting the global diamond industry including generic marketing.

Boosting consumer demand via generic promotion campaigns, declining profitability for the WFDB's members due to high rough prices and falling polished prices, as well as the decrease in bank credit to the diamond trade was discussed during the Summit.

The Summit was hosted by the Macau Association for the Promotion of Diamond and Gem Trade Development in Macau in a meeting organised by the Shanghai Diamond Exchange. Presidents of diamond exchanges in the region, including China, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea and Russia attend the event.

WFDB President Ernie Blom said, This is a forum which enables regional bourse presidents to explain their concerns in a relaxed meeting. There was definitely an upbeat feel to the meeting in light of recent announcements regarding big increases in global generic diamond marketing campaigns."



Aruna Gaitonde, Editor-in-Chief of Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished




Gemological Science International (GSI) presented a breakfast seminar on Successful American Retail Strategies. The seminar was presented in collaboration with Preferred Jewelers. Andie Weinman, Founder of Preferred Jewelers addressed the select crowd on Proven Successful American Retail Strategies. The event was held at DMCC Dubai, says a press note from the organisation.Ms. Weinman, while addressing the media, said that she was extremely pleased with the response of the participants during the seminar. It goes without saying that GSI has come to Dubai with proven retail strategies that come with a local approach, especially for the Dubai jewelry industry, she added.GSI, the largest independent commercial gemological laboratory for global diamond and colored stone trade, often organizes gatherings of the diamond industry to discuss the various problems faced in the online jewelry outlet as well as concerns of synthetic diamonds.GSI is a global organization with the offices all over the world. While our business is gemology, we believe that our ability to connect different parts of the world bring knowledge from one part of the world to another is beneficial for our customers and for the industry as a whole. The USA is the world's largest and most mature market. Its experience is very relevant for everybody and especially for up and coming market like Dubai and GCC. We are happy to bring Ms. Andie Weinman with her rich experience in US retail to share her knowledge said Ms. Debbie Azar, Co-Founder GSI.Andie Weinman, Co- Founder- Preferred Jewelers, the key speaker of the event holds around 35 years of experience in the jewelry sector said, The retail industry landscape is changing at an incredible speed with new innovations and developments; many old concepts are not applicable to todays industry. Hence to break through the paradigm and recreate your vision in the jewelry market for the future, it is an indispensable need to build, grow and innovate. Another rising concern in the industry is the rise in the number of deceitful practice of synthetic diamond mixing, she pointed out.We want the participants to understand that we are doing what works TODAY not what used to work yesterday. As the retail experts, we will guide you with your retail marketing efforts. You will be part of a much bigger entity by partnering with us, she added.Combine what works in other retail industries with our own industry best practices. This will help to get the best results with the best ROI (Return on Investment). During the seminar various other issues faced by the retailers were addressed including the need to shift the older mindset since what worked before does not work now, she stated.
Defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. (NOC) Monday said it has entered into a definitive agreement to buy Orbital ATK, Inc. (OA), an aerospace and defense technologies company, for approximately $7.8 billion in cash, plus the assumption of $1.4 billion in net debt.

Orbital ATK shareholders will receive all-cash consideration of $134.50 per share. The agreement has been approved unanimously by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

Northrop Grumman expects the transaction to be accretive to earnings per share and free cash flow per share in the first full year after the transaction closes, and to generate estimated annual pre-tax cost savings of $150 million by 2020.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2018 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and Orbital ATK shareholder approval.

Upon completion of the acquisition, Northrop Grumman plans to establish Orbital ATK as a new, fourth sector to ensure a strong focus on operating performance and a smooth transition.

On a pro forma 2017 basis, Northrop Grumman expects to have sales in the range of $29.5 to $30 billion based on current guidance.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., (TEVA) announced Monday that it has entered into two agreements to sell the remaining assets of its specialty global women's for $1.38 billion. Proceeds from these sales, combined with proceeds from the recently announced sale of PARAGARD total $2.48 billion and will be used by Teva to progress repayment of term loan debt.

Teva has entered into a definitive agreement under which CVC Capital Partners Fund VI will acquire a portfolio of products within its global women's health business across contraception, fertility, menopause and osteoporosis for $703 million in cash. The portfolio of products, which is marketed and sold outside of the U.S., includes Ovaleap, Zoely, Seasonique, Colpotrophine, Actonel and additional products. Combined annual net sales of these and additional products within this portfolio for the full year 2016 were $258 million.

Further, Teva has entered into a definitive agreement under which Foundation Consumer Healthcare will acquire Plan B One-Step and Teva's value brands of emergency contraception, Take Action, Aftera, and Next Choice One Dose for $675 million in cash. Combined annual net sales these for the full year 2016 were $140 million.

Completion of the transactions is subject to customary conditions, including antitrust clearance in the U.S. and EU respectively, together with employee consultations.

The transactions are expected to close before the end of 2017. Until the transactions are completed, Teva will continue to market the products in the normal course.

Teva is now reinforcing its strategic focus on CNS and Respiratory as its core global therapeutic areas of focus within Global Specialty Medicines.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
(Agencia CMA Latam) - Peru's President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski on Sunday swore in his new cabinet after the country's Congress rejected the confidence vote requested by then prime minister Fernando Zavala.

The decision forced five ministers to step down and led Kuczynski to form a new government team while ratifying the remaining 13 ministers.

Zavala requested the vote last week, after accusing the parliamentary majority of censorship. He also said that the cabinet is undermining the educational reforms proposed by the government and forced the resignation of the Minister of Education, Marilu Martens. She is under fire due to her allegedly pivotal role in a teacher's strike that lasted for 45 days.

The new Peruvian ministers are Claudia Cooper (Economy and Finance) Carlos Bruce (Housing, Construction and Sanitation) Enrique Mendoza (Justice and Human Rights).

Meanwhile, Mercedes Araoz swore as president of the Council of Ministers, becoming the second person to assume this position under Kuczynski.

According to the Peruvian Constitution, if Congress twice refuses to support an entire cabinet of ministers, the president is empowered to dissolve the parliament and to convene a legislative election.

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
(Agencia CMA Latam) - Argentina's Finance Minister Nicolas Dujovne said that the Mauricio Macri's administration would achieve a labor reform that "is going to be very important for Argentina," but noted that the reform recently carried out in Brazil is not a mirror for his country.

"All the reforms being promoted by the Ministry of Labor in talks with the unions need to respect the country's idiosyncrasies. And we will achieve a reform that will be very important for Argentina," said the official in statements to radio Metro.

When asked if the Argentinean reform would be similar to that carried out in the neighboring Brazil, the official noted that "every country has to respect its particularities and has to seek consensus, because the reforms that remain are those that were agreed upon."

In July, the Brazilian Congress passed a bill that allows direct agreements between employers and employees to prevail over labor law, eliminates mandatory contributions from workers to unions and establishes the so-called seasonal work - when employees are subordinate to one company in spite of irregular working hours.

However, the proposition also enables some controversial measures, which oblige pregnant women to work in conditions of medium or small insalubrity and authorize consecutive 12-hour workdays with 36 hours of rest, for example.

The Brazilian government says that the new legislation will 'modernize' labor rules and boost employment, but unions and judges from labor courts stated that the reform would remove workers' rights and create obstacles to fair decisions in legal disputes between employees and employers.

Meanwhile, Macri's administration and the General Confederation of Labor will soon launch discussions on a bill to bring workers out of the informal market, Dujovne said. The minister said that while the government does not have an estimate of how many people would be benefited, there is "room for progress" in Argentina, given that informality is estimated at almost 30% of the local labor market.

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
By SA Commercial Prop News

Mayor Herman Mashaba plans to open up Johannesburgs hijacked buildings to private developers and will expropriate property if necessary.



City of Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba vowed to reclaim 500 hijacked buildings, as part of his campaign to bring safety and order back to the area.

The Mayor plans to open up Johannesburgs hijacked buildings to private developers and will expropriate property if necessary.



Johannesburg has hundreds of "hijacked" buildings that have been taken over by residents or abandoned by owners.



Mashaba said that as part of developing the inner city and providing affordable housing to city residents, more than 500 of these buildings had been identified for development.

This week, residents and business owners in the city were counting the cost of a debilitating 11-day blackout following the theft of critical underground copper cabling.



And they said that while they were happy that work was finally under way to transform the area, they had yet to notice any improvements.



But progress is being made, albeit slowly. Some 1,500 metro police officers have been appointed to boost visible policing, 25 new surveillance cameras have been installed since July, and refuse collection has increased to three times a day.



The city is now trying to secure alternative accommodation for illegal occupants, before handing the hijacked buildings over to developers to turn into affordable housing.



But in an interview in the Sunday Times this week, Mashaba tells how he refuses to take responsibility for foreigners living in the inner city, saying they must find their own place to live.

Mashaba says he looks forward to the Johannesburg city centre becoming a 'construction site' over the next 18 months.
Appearing before a sessions court in Ahmedabad as Maya Kodnani's witness in 2002 Naroda Gam riots case on Monday, BJP president Amit Shah said that Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam on the day the riots broke out.

"Maya Kodnani was present at the Assembly on February 28, 2002, at 8:30 a.m. along with other members to pay tribute to those who had died in the Godhra rail incident," said Shah, and further stated that he had also seen her later at the Sola Civil Hospital around 11:00 a.m.

A day before the Naroda Gam riots, Sabarmati Express was allegedly torched at the Godhra railway station.

"From 9:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., I was at the Sola Civil Hospital, and I remember seeing Jaideep Patel and other leaders. I met Maya Kodnani, while leaving the hospital around 11:00-11:30 a.m. The enraged public had surrounded us, so the police cordoned both of us out in the same jeep," Shah said. He also said that he learnt about the Godhra incident when the home minister announced it in the assembly.

Regarding the notification issued by SIT asking witnesses to come out and give their statement, Shah said, "I neither received any summons, nor was asked by SIT if I was present with Maya on the day of the incident." However, he also admitted that he was aware of SIT's public notification.
The front-page story titled No poverty in Samoa? Check out the children at Tafaigata landfill is another sad reminder about the chilling reality for some of the poorest people in this country today.

While the existence of poverty, especially when it comes to food, will always be a debatable topic in Samoa, the fact that young children are scavenging at the dumpster is such a haunting truth that should make all leaders of this country very, very uncomfortable.

We say this because as they drive around in their pimpedup expensive rides with the air-condition on full blast being paid for by taxpayers, someone should remind them that in Samoa today, not only are there kids scouring the rubbish for food, there are many people around the country who still do not have access to basic utilities like water and electricity. In 2017.

And this ugly reality is being reflected in the other areas of life in Samoa today. Its fair to say the gruesome violence  with some leading to death  reported over recent months is quite frightening. Then there are the alarming figures of cases of theft, burglaries, theft as a servant and other petty crimes which are sending shivers down the spine.

No one knows for sure why these things are happening. But there has got to be a reason for this sudden upsurge of crime emerging during this time in this country.

The way we see it, our leaders need to wake up and pay attention. As long as the government continues to calmly ignore everyones concerns about hardship, poverty and crimes as idiotic nonsense, its only going to get worse.

Where do we start?

Well try listening and acting upon concerns expressed by good meaning people like Vaitele Fou resident, Nanai Tailealo Motumotu, who raised the issue about the children at the Tafaigata dump in yesterdays Samoa Observer.

Whenever trucks discharge waste at the site, these children rush to collect plastics, metals and other things that can still be used and many of them are as young as six, he said. These poor souls treat the place as their own and its a really sad scene for myself as a father.

Whats even more disheartening for Nanai is that many of the children scour the place for food. They look for expired food products being dumped there and then they take it with them to their homes.

Obviously, these are not just a bunch of kids looking for food. They have been handed the responsibility of looking after their families and the Tafaigata landfill is their source of sustenance. Which is a real tragedy.

Now yesterday, Nanai was calling on the government to do something to stop children from entering the place.

I know these children are helping their parents out because they are young. But something that the government should think about is a way to stop them from accessing this place.

Nanai added many of these children come from families who are desperate.

Think about how our people are now hoarding rubbish to earn a living. What will happen to them in the next ten years? Are we expecting these numbers to decrease? The answer is no!

Nanai added he couldnt fathom the risk these children are exposed to in terms of health.

And when they find food and expired goods, imagine how many other people in their families are exposed?

Lastly, Nanai said the Ministry responsible for the landfill should be held accountable.

Well thats a tough one for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, isnt it? We agree that they should stop children from entering the landfill, but this issue is much bigger than just getting a secured fence at the landfill.

We are talking about families who send their children up there because they are desperate. We are talking about some of the poorest people in Samoa who perhaps feel this is the only way they can get by.

The truth is the M.N.R.E can put a fence there and have security officers surround the place 24/7 but that is not going to solve the problem. Desperation knows no boundaries. These people will always find a way to sneak in there.

What they need is a real hand to help them out of their desperation. These children need opportunities like education while the young adults should be offered proper jobs so they dont have to resort to the landfill for a living.

And that is not the role for M.N.R.E. This is a role for all government leaders, starting from the very top with Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Its time for them to stop paying lip service to people development and ignoring the cry of hardship from ordinary people.

The truth is; if these people were not desperate, they would not be scavenging at the Tafaigata landfill. What do you think?

Write and share your thoughts with us!

Have a great Tuesday Samoa, God bless!
Dear Editor,

Ive been reading a lot lately about our Prime Minister talking about his divine whispers and secret communications with God. When I came across the following piece, I thought Id share it with your readers because it seems like Tuilaepa is not the only one.

The piece is from The New York Times written by Nicholas Kristof for its opinion pages. Here is the piece:

The famous televangelist Jim Bakker, who is preaching again on television after a rape accusation and a prison term for financial fraud, recently warned that Christians would start an armed insurrection if President Trump were impeached.

If it happens, there will be civil war in the United States of America, Bakker told his television audience. The Christians will finally come out of the shadows, because we are going to be shut up permanently if were not careful.

Afterward, I received the following transcript of a conversation between Bakker and, er, God. It comes from a divine source.

Bakker: Dear God, thank you for blessing me with wisdom, courage, virtue and rugged good looks. Plus humility. Please help me raise up an army to smite the infidels trying to impeach President Trump. 

God: Oh, enough already!

Bakker, trying to dive under the bed: Whos there? And oh, no! Fire! Fire! Theres a fire on my bed!

God: Its a burning bush.

Bakker: Who said that? Fire! Fire! Help!

God: Dont be such a wimp: This is a smokeless burning bush. It wont even singe your linens. So listen up. This is God.

Bakker: Wow, that really is a burning bush! Thats you, God? Are you anointing me to lead my people and smite our enemies? Will you give me a mighty, holy sword? I could crush all those infidels, just as if they were Amalekites.

God: Whoa! Remember: Blessed are the peacemakers. Im not into smiting these days. When you say deranged, violent things in my name, I want to sue you for defamation. Not that I go around feeling sorry for myself, but its tough being the Almighty when crazies keep running around fomenting hatred in my name.

Bakker: Like those God-forsaken Muslims! They dont value human life. We should destroy them!

God: You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brothers eye.

Bakker: You could be more respectful. And wait  are you not a Republican?

God: Im nonpartisan. I just dont like being used. I was mortified when four out of five white evangelical Christians voted for a thrice-married liar who bragged about sexual assault  and then cited me as the reason for their votes. In polls, white evangelicals went from the group most likely to say that personal morality mattered in politics to the group least likely to say that  in just five years. These are values voters?

Bakker: I admit, Trump isnt perfect. No man is perfect, except our Lord Jesus Christ. But Trump is pro-life.

God: Hes pro-life for fetuses. Thats about it.

Bakker: But God, you put Trump in power! So many evangelical leaders, like Robert Jeffress, have pointed out that Trump could have been elected only if that was your doing.

God: Dont blame me! I endorse free will. And if Trumps election had been my doing, I would have made sure he also won the popular vote.

Bakker: Pastor Paula White said the other day on my television show that since Trumps presidency is Gods will, opposition to Trump amounts to resisting the hand of God. 

God: Hmm. Did she say that when Barack Obama was serving two terms?

Bakker: But Trump is an instrument of Jesus. Fighting abortionists and refugees.

God: I wish youd read your Bible, and not just thump it. Jesus never said a peep about abortions or gays. And you know who was a refugee?

Bakker: Hitler?

God: How about Jesus? Jesuss family fled King Herods slaughter of the innocents and found asylum in Egypt. Maybe ancient Egypt was more tolerant of refugees than Trump?

Bakker: But God! We people of faith are just trying to do Jesuss will!

God: Jesus didnt coddle the financiers of his day, the money-changers, but hounded them while comforting the needy. Follow him, and the focus would be on: I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me. Nuns and missionaries make me proud when they fight AIDS or tutor in prisons. I love World Visions humanitarian programs. But Im just insulted when people invoke my name and side with bigots or hurt the poor.

Bakker: Its more complicated than that. If todays foreigners spoke English and were good white Christians like Joseph and Mary, Id welcome them. But they speak strange languages. If English was good enough for Jesus, its good enough for everyone in America.

God: Eloi, eloi, lema sabachthani.

Bakker: God, will you send your flesh and blood again on Earth so that we can exalt him?

God: Her. You see, I did. Shes a 16-year-old Syrian Muslim girl in Arkansas. But ICE just arrested her and deported her to a refugee camp in Turkey.

Bakker: Uh-oh.

Manuteleina lenei aso, Samoa!

U.A.
Former Cabinet Minister, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, appeared in the District Court yesterday in relation to a criminal charge against him.

Laaulialemalietoa was joined by other officials of the nonu company including his wife, Heather, and business associates, Apulu Lance Polu and Tuitui Aiolupo.

Another defendant, Martin Schwalger, did not appear. The Court was told he was running late.

The defendants appeared before District Court Judge Fepuleai Roma Ameperosa who ordered that they hand over their passports and travel documents to the Court as part of their bail conditions.

The charges are in relation to an on-going court case over a nonu company involving another senior member of the ruling Human Rights Protection Party and Associate Minister of Cabinet and Prime Minister, Peseta Vaifou Tevaga.

A lawyer from the Attorney Generals Office, Fatumanavaupolu Ofisa Tagaloa, informed the Court they have yet to finalise their charges. He requested an adjournment to allow more time for this to happen.

All five defendants are represented by lawyer, Semi Leung Wai.

The District Court was packed with supporters and several High Chiefs from the village of the former Minister.

Judge Fepuleai has scheduled the matter to be re-mentioned on 1 October 2017.

As reported earlier, Acting Assistant Police Commissioner, Salaa Moananu Salalaa, told the Samoa Observer the holding charges for Laauli and his wife are allegedly obtaining money by deception and Apulu was charged with obtaining a forged document.

Each of the charges carries a maximum penalty, if convicted, and will serve up to seven years in jail.

Its unclear what charges that Schwalger and Aiolupo are facing.

Fatumanavaupolu told the Samoa Observer, the delay in finalizing the criminal charges are due to the normal procedure.

He said its the Police that conduct the investigation and file the charges. The A.Gs office reviews and makes amendments where necessary.

Outside of the Court House, a chief in support of Laauli spoke out loud and pledged their continuous support.

We are behind you all the way, he said.

You need to be courageous in times of need and rely on God for assistance, not only for you, but also your wife and of course Apulu.

Laauli the former Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, resigned from his ministerial portfolios last month. Apulu also stepped down as President of the Journalists Association of Samoa last month.
The Minister of Prisons, Tialavea Tionisio Hunt, has downplayed concerns about a conflict of interest in having the wife of his Associate Minister, Sooalo Mene, as an Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Prisons and Correction Services (M.P.C.S.).

What conflict of interest? Tialavea responded to a question from the Samoa Observer about the relationship between the Associate Minister and the A.C.E.O, Levao Rosa Sooalo.

Levao had been an Assistant C.E.O. before me and my Associate Minister were appointed to the Prisons, said the Minister.

A conflict of interest arises in the workplace when an employee has competing interests or loyalties that either are or potentially or can be, at odds with each other. In this case that does not happen. Sooalo is one of the few people I trust with my life and his management skills are why I depend on him.

When Sooalo was contacted for a comment, he referred all inquiries to the Minister.

And according to Tialavea, Sooalo suits his position.

Sooalo is loyal, trustworthy and honest and in this lifetime, you hardly come across these types of people anymore, he said.

So I will take on the criticism but I stand my ground with the decision I made for Sooalo to remain as my Associate Minister.

Tialavea said the perceived conflict is not their fault.

We were appointed to the Ministry of Revenue in March and in June, the Prisons and Correction Services was added to our profile.

At that time, Sooalo the honest person that he is, told me that he does not feel right about being the Associate Minister for the Prison where his wife works.

But I told him that his expertise and assistance is needed at the Prisons, but this is Sooalo, an honest man and I couldnt have got this far in fixing the problems with the Prisons without him by my side.

Hes well educated with a masters degree and I will not remove him as my Associate. It was approved by Cabinet and its those orders that me and my Associate will live by, in serving our beloved Samoa.

The Minister expressed full confidence in Sooalo and his wife being professionals in doing their jobs.

Conflicts of interest can cause an employee to act out of interests that are divergent from those of his or her employer or co-workers, he said.

They are as diverse as the work settings in which they occur and involve people interaction, employee actions, and personal benefits taking precedence over what is in the best interests of the employer and that does not happen with Sooalo and his wife.

He added that Levao is doing a phenomenal job as A.C.E.O. for Corporate services.

She is in charge of the finances at the prison and shes managed our books very well, he said.

The funds we get from the government is never enough to cater for more than 700 inmates, but with people like Levao in place, we have managed to pull through in our darkest times.

And there is a lot of work to be done, the Minister said, more important than paying attention to unfounded complaints from people.

Since we came on board, the first thing me and Sooalo did was to fix the fence.

We did not have enough money, we received $40,000 from aid and then we proceeded with completing of the fence.

We submitted our invoices to Treasury for payment but it was denied but me and Sooalo did not stop there, we took it to Cabinet and they approved Treasury to pay for the completion of the fence.

This was the first mandate by the Attorney General Lemalu Herman Retzlaff, and we made it happen.

The concern was the governments liability, with a prison not having a secured fence and again, I couldnt have done it without Sooalos persistence and commitment.

That is why I value my Associate Minister and his input, he has the heart to serve the people.

Nothing will change at the Prisons and Correction Services, I stand by my decision to have Sooalo as my Associate Minister.
A gun submitted before Court as an exhibit, which has disappeared, is part of evidence in the hearing of a criminal charge against a suspended Police Officer facing firearm charges.

This was confirmed by the Deputy Registrar, Veatauia Faatasi Puleiata, yesterday.

He told the Samoa Observer the matter has been referred to the Police.

The gun is a rifle and its a long gun, he said. Its impossible for anyone to remove it during the day.

The hearing of the suspended cop has been scheduled for 22 September 2017 for the Court to render its decision.

The suspended Police officer entered a not guilty plea to 10 criminal charges against him - including the discharging of a firearm.

Last week, the Chief Executive Officer of M.J.C.A, Papalii John Papalii, said he is extremely concerned about the missing evidence.

The Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration immediately launched an internal investigation to find out how the gun disappeared.

Our investigation was not successful and given this is a crime, removing evidence entrusted to the Court, the police was called in for a criminal investigation, said Papalii.

In the meantime, he told the Samoa Observer evidence is now locked away in a safe place with only one key.

I have that key and it will not leave my sight, he said. All the exhibits that come in will be handed over to me for safe keeping to ensure this issue is not repeated.

Police Superintendent, Logotino Filipo, the Police Media Spokesperson confirmed the have taken over the case.

It is confirmed that an investigation has been launched earlier this week. I cannot comment further while the investigation is proceeding, said Filipo.
A resident of Vaivase-tai has sounded a health warning over the location of the Tui Samoa Cable in the area.

Sagauga Toomalatai Utaileuo contacted the Samoa Observer to express his concerns.

He claims to be an expert in the field of technology innovations and that he fears for the lives of people living around their district, especially children.

He is worried about the dangers of the Tui-Samoa Cable, saying it can affect many lives in a silent way that no one would notice.

Sagauga claims to have worked the U.S. Air force for many years. For that reason he claims he has enough knowledge about the effects of these cable lines on people.

He is worried about radiation and how the frequency from the cable could impact on the lives of residents.

My concern basically lies in the location of this new technological innovation, he said.

I dont oppose it but I am concerned because most school buildings are located around here. I believe that half of the population do not have a clear understanding of what these cables can do to their lives.

So I will not just stand on the side and do nothing because I know what these things can do and I care for our people and the people living in my district.

From my past experience, these cables have very strong particles that no human being can see. They travel through unseen wavesI know the implementation of this Cable will bring many benefits but is it safe for people around here?

The concerned citizen urged the Samoa Cable Company to consider safety measures to protect residents living nearby.

He added that perhaps the Cable station should be developed on an isolated island to prevent any potentially harmful exposure to people.

Speaking from experience, I know cases like these are very hard to describe because people can be easily manipulated by the different programmes that this cable can offer.

But what they dont know is these cables can cause health problems, even death. I have seen people suffer with different diseases caused by these technological sites, and that is why I am worried about this development situated here.

We may not see it now, but in the future we will because a disease caused by the radiation and frequencies from theTui Cable takes time to develop, but when it takes place it is incurable.

Yes, our government can earn much money from this Cable project but the lives of people are more important

We only have one life from God therefore please reconsider moving this company somewhere else. We have children growing up and they are the future of our country.

It was not possible to get a comment from the Cable company yesterday.
A Samoan is among four successful applicants of a programme designed to address development challenges in the Pacific Island Countries with the help of Japan.

Josef Tuunasoli Pisi, a former employee of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E), was among the first batch of Pacific Leaders Educational Assistance for Development of State (Pacific  L.E.A.D.S) Programme in 2016.

As part of the programme, Mr. Pisi is studying towards a Master of Environmental Science at Hokkaido University, Graduate School of Environmental Science.

The Pacific LEADS Programme was initiated after the Japanese government hosted the 7th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting (PALM7) in May 2015.

At the time, leaders of Japan and Pacific Island Countries agreed to enhance cooperation with a central focus on disaster risk reduction; climate change; environment; people to people exchange; sustainable developments (including human resources development); ocean (maritime issues and fisheries); trade (investment & tourism).

Its objective is to foster young leaders who play a vital role towards the resolution of development challenges in Pacific Island Countries, as well as to further strengthen the relationships between their countries and Japan.

I have always wanted to further my educational career, after having completed undergraduate degree in Environmental studies back in 2008 and working in the environmental management field for the past seven years, said Mr. Pisi.

I obtained information about Pac LEADS from a former colleague and then I applied.

The rest as they say is history.

But being away from his family is challenging, he said.

Although its quite challenging being isolated from home and family, studying in Japan has given me the opportunity to become an independent researcher.

It was a huge adjustment at first undergoing culture shock and anxiety but was also a great lifetime experience for him.

The Pacific L.E.A.DS programme involves an assortment of experiences and activities that aim not only to build co-creation and information exchange, but also strengthen ties between Samoa and Japan.

This week, Mr. Pisi is back in Samoa conducting a field research for his course thesis.

Studying Global Environmental Management (G.E.M) course offers a great glimpse and understanding of the current global issues we are facing today, on every aspect, and relating management strategies to the context of the Pacific is an important part of being a Pacific Island representative, he said.

His research field focuses on building resilient ecosystems through forest restoration as an ecosystem based adaptation strategy to climate change.

The intention is to establish a regulated ecosystem restoration approaches by understanding species characters and behaviours in different habitats (autecology and phytosociology) through experiments and monitoring surveys in order to restore degraded ecosystems and functions of environmental protection.

My hope is that the completion of my graduate degree will enable me to engage in the decision making process on environmental issues that would subsequently help contribute to achieving and providing answers to some of Samoas national environment policy frameworks in the future.

Mr. Pisi, believes that the Pacific LEADS Programme offers a great opportunity to young leaders who are academically motivated and seeking to advance their career paths in their areas of interest.

He said that this programme has really broaden his capacity and equipped him with advanced knowledge required to enable solutions on development challenges related to environmental management in our country.

It is and honour for me personally to have the opportunity provided by the Japanese Government through JICA to represent Samoa in such an imperative initiative, and I hope that more young Samoans working in the Government/civil sector take advantage of such limited program to gain that much needed knowledge for the betterment of their services as current civil servants and future leaders of the country.

Pacific Leaders Educational Assistance for Development of State (Pacific  LEADS) Programme is now open until October.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ulu Bismarck Crawley, is the new Chairman of the Noumea Convention.

Ulu takes over from outgoing chair, Mike Walsh.

The decision was made last week during the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (C.O.P) to the Noumea Convention, for which S.P.R.E.P is the Secretariat. The meeting was part of the build up to S.P.R.E.Ps 28th Meeting of Officials, which opened last night.

Nine members of the Noumea Convention attended, namely Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, France, Republic of the Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and the United States of America.

Leota Kosi Latu, Director General of S.P.R.E.P, welcomed the election of Ulu as the new Chair of the Convention for the next two years and acknowledged the efforts of Mr. Walsh for his role as Chair since 2015.

Ulu said the effects of human activities continue to threaten our biological resources both directly and indirectly.

As the Framework for Pacific Regionalism recognises the countries and territories of the region are linked by the ocean, its conservation and sustainable management is of critical importance to us all, he said.

The Noumea Convention is a vital tool in achieving this. The challenge of how we best work together to ensure the sustainable use of our oceans, while protecting our marine biodiversity and ecosystems needs to be highlighted in the application of the Convention.

The Noumea Convention provides a legal instrument to ensure that environmental management and sustainable development of natural resources is implemented throughout the Pacific. Since the Convention came into force in 1990, there have been increasing challenges and issues faced by the Pacific region.

The number of governments present in Samoa reflects the commitment from the Parties, which is reflected in the work undertaken since the last COP meeting in 2015 to address the challenges of environmental management and pollution control in the region.

The activities of the Parties and the Secretariat achieved under the Convention, often with shoestring budgets, reflected the true value of the Convention, said Leota.

There have been increasing demands and emerging pressures within our regions natural resources not just from within the region, but from multiple global scale drivers. The Noumea Convention has to address many of the pressing and emerging issues we face today such as climate change and ocean acidification.

The main achievements and key successes of the Noumea Convention over the last two years have been in the areas of marine and coastal conservation, Environmental Impact Assessment (E.I.A) and marine pollution.

Over the last two years, there have been a number of significant achievements in the Pacific, which suggests that strengthening the use of the Noumea Convention as a legally binding instrument for sustaining the regions environment is critically important, said Mr. Walsh.

We call upon other countries to ratify the Convention.

The twelve Parties to the Noumea Convention are: Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, France, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands and the United States of America.
The difference between tipping and bribery has been spelt out by a Cabinet Minister who said public servants should not feel bad about accepting tips for doing their work. The Minister of Revenue, Tialavea Tioniso Hunt, said it is only wrong when public servants accept bribes. What do you think? Should members of the public be encouraged to tip public servants, especially people like Customs officials? Ulimasao Fata asked in todays Street Talk and this is what people said:

Mele Maulolo Iasoni

Afega 47

I disagree. The reasons for my concern is that these people end up making more money from tipping than what they should be paid. Didnt they take an oath to serve honestly without fear or favours. There is a fine line between tipping and bribery. This encourages public servants to do the wrong thing.

Saili Talimasealii

Utualii 51

I think this sort of comment encourages dishonesty. Our leaders should lead by example in doing everything good so the public will do the same. I think the Ministers comments are shameful. Public servants are there to serve without favour. So what if we dont tip them? Where do you draw the line between tipping and bribery?

Pearlynn Brown Malie

I disagree with the Minister. The main reason is that this will encourage Customs officers to break the law. This sort of thing reflects the lack of integrity in what they do.

I think the reason why some people are doing this its because they think its the easiest way but the thing is, that is so unfair to other members of the public that are doing the right way. So to me we should say no to this. People should do their work honestly.

Peleti Aso

Faleasiu 36

This issue is not a new issue. I think most people who are doing this illegal action know that this is bad for Samoa. Its not just Customs officers, its the Police and many other public servants who accepts money to force their decision making. I dont think Samoa should be doing this because we as a Christianity state. We should be honest in everything that we do. I hope this is not the new standard set by this government.

Paulo Ilalio Fonoti

Afega/Nuu Fou

To me I think theres a good and bad thing about this. The good thing is that members of the public are doing the Samoan way of respect and appreciation. But the bad thing is when they abuse their power. I understand that the Bible says blessed are those who give but then this has gone over the limit. There is nothing there to stop the abuse and when tipping becomes bribery.

Seufale Filipo Foaluga

Vaitele Fou

This is nothing new. Many government Ministers and senior government workers have been doing this for years. I personally it should be stopped. I have been a victim of this so many times because they take advantage of your desperation. I think the government should introduce a no tipping policy.
With the Jewish High Holidays upon us and Christmas not far off, it is a good time to address the duty of California employers with five or more employees to accommodate their employees religious practices and beliefs.

California law generally prohibits an employer from discriminating against an employee because of a conflict between the persons religious belief or observance and any employment requirement. A religious belief or observance includes observance of a religious holy day and religious dress and grooming practices.

To be protected, a religious creed must be more than a personal philosophy, though belief in a supreme being is not essential. While veganism governs the food a person eats, the clothes the person wears, and the products the person uses, the California court of appeal has ruled veganism is not sufficiently comprehensive in nature to be a religion.

Advertisement

Once an employer learns of a conflict between an employees sincerely held religious belief and the employees job duties, the employer must explore in good faith reasonable alternative means of accommodating the religious belief or observance, such as excusing the employee from performing duties that conflict with her religious beliefs or observances or permitting those duties to be performed at another time or by another person.

An employer that has offered a reasonable accommodation that meets the employees religious needs need not show that each of the employees alternatives would be unduly burdensome. Also, as with accommodations for disabled employees, an employer is not required to provide the employees preferred accommodation.

An employer also is not required to accommodate an employees personal preference to engage in a particular activity just because it touches on an employees religious beliefs, though the line between a personal preference and a sincerely held religious belief is not always clear.

A federal court of appeals ruled that an employer that restricted a Jewish employee from leaving more than two hours early on Fridays did not create a conflict with the employees religious beliefs. The employee wanted additional time to buy or make challah bread, but the employee conceded she did not consider challah mandatory for her Sabbath observance. Similarly, a federal judge ruled that a grocer was not required to release an employee three hours before her churchs Christmas worship service so she could volunteer in the churchs pre-service Christmas pageant.

An employee is entitled to accommodation of a sincerely held religious belief, however, even if she cannot show that the tenets of her chosen religion mandate or prohibit what the employee seeks to have accommodated. Thus, the California court of appeal concluded that an employer was required to allow an employee who was a Jehovahs witness to attend a religious convention he sincerely believed it was his religious responsibility to attend, even though the convention was held at a particularly busy time for the employer and even though adherents could attend other conventions held at other times. It is the business of neither the courts nor employers to determine the tenets of the employees religion, only the sincerity of the employees religious belief.

An employer is not excused altogether from accommodating an employees sincerely held religious belief unless the employer can demonstrate that doing so would cause the employer undue hardship. California law requires a showing that accommodating the employees religion would cause the same kind of burden that accommodating an employees disability would cause. That means any accommodation must impose significant difficulty or expense on the employer in light of the employers resources and number of employees.

An employers respect for its employees sincerely held religious beliefs, and employees restraint in seeking accommodation only for matters of faith and not convenience, will help make for a peaceful holiday season for all. Happy Holidays.

Dan Eaton is a partner with the San Diego law firm of Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek where his practice focuses on defending and advising employers. He also is an instructor at the San Diego State University Fowler College of Business where he teaches classes in business ethics and employment law. He may be reached at eaton@scmv.com. His Twitter handle is @DanEatonlaw.
UC San Diegos Design Lab is inviting the public to solve the regions commuting nightmare using the latest tools in social networking  an all-night hackathon, crowdsourcing and innovative thinking by experts and novices.

And for the winner, theres a $5,000 cash prize plus a funding pitch session to city planners and startup entrepreneurs.

Design for San Diego or D4SD will kick off at 10 a.m. Thursday at DowntownWorks, 550 W. B St. in downtown San Diego with a design sprint for competitors to learn about the challenge and then a hackathon for them to work on possible solutions in one of four areas. That session will last from 5:30 p.m. Friday through 9 p.m. Saturday.

Advertisement

The four areas are enhancing the commuter experience; promoting bikes and walking; improving accessibility; and preparing for the advent of driverless, autonomous vehicles.

The Slack online messaging and discussion forum system will be used for competitors and experts to share ideas and ask questions.

Competitors solutions  in the form of written descriptions, prototypes and posters  are due at 11:59 p.m. Oct. 22. Individuals as well as groups can participate and there is no charge. The Design Lab will cover poster printing costs.

The entry posters will be on display to the public at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Broadway Pier Pavilion and the finalists projects will be on display at the Design Forward Summit starting at 7 a.m. Oct. 26 at the Liberty Station Community Center, 2640 Historic Decatur Road in Point Loma. The awards ceremony will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the same location.

Mobility was chosen as the first design challenge following last years first Design Forward Summit. Organizers wanted to demonstrate how human-centered design concepts can applied to real-world problems.

Were exploring that space collectively and motivating people through free beer, networking opportunities, $5,000 in cash prizes etc., said Steven Dow, a UC San Diego cognitive scientist and the D4SD director.

He said he hopes at least 50 entries are submitted and expects about half to come from UCSD students, including those in his cognitive design class in the fall quarter.

University students never get exposure to real world problems, Dow said.

Nonacademics in turn have a chance to apply their expertise to real-world solutions in an innovative way.

This really provides a unifying structure for informal learning in the community in human-centered design, data and analysis and they can work on a problem that affects everyone, he said.

Contestants will be judged on novelty and creativity, feasibility, and the potential impact on peoples lives.

The first-place winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and runners-up will receive noncash prizes. All entrants will get free access to the community mixer at Broadway Pier and all finalists will get tickets, worth tickets, worth $150, to the Oct. 26 awards event.

Information is available at D4SD.org.

Business

roger.showley@sduniontribune.com; (619) 293-1286; Twitter: @rogershowley
I am a gigantic fan of Adam Grant, professor of management at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. In other words, he is on my list with whom to have a last dinner before I kick the bucket. Recently, he wrote about one of my favorite topics - networking - in The New York Times.

My book, Im There For You, Baby, contains 221 rules on entrepreneurship, and Rule No. 2 says, Networking is a profession, become a professional at it. Grant has now reframed my thinking deeply.

He says, Success is supposed to come to the suave schmoozers and social butterflies, but this obscures the opposite truth  accomplishing great things helps you develop a network. My original thinking was that who you know really matters more than what you know, but now I think it is not just who you know  nor what you know --- but what you have done. It is about the doing, not just the knowing.

Advertisement

Grant lists multiple examples from George Lucas to Justin Bieber to Sara Blakely. In each instance, it was the work they did that got them the introduction to the person who then catapulted their career. I admire Grant for calling this out. I have often promoted networking as a skill to be developed, but I think Grant is right that achievements are exponential to the network. There are a limited number of times you can just make small talk at the mixer.

Grant says, Who youll know tomorrow depends on what you contributed yesterday. One of the ways of contributing is to take the time to return emails and phone calls. My friend and partner, Cliff Boro, says, Dig the well before you need the water. I am always surprised when people thank me for calling them back. I am usually good for a couple of minutes to listen  because I dont know what you have on your mind  and I would like to find out. Sure, sometimes it is a waste, and as I said, a couple of minutes but on multiple occasions I have gotten deals and clients and money from blind phone calls or emails. It was a random email from a woman I had never met who suggested that I speak to the prisoners (including her fiance) at the brig at Miramar. That event led to my deep involvement in the prison business.

More from Grant, The best way to attract a mentor is to create something worthy of the mentors attention. Do something interesting, and instead of having to push your way in, you will be pulled in. The network comes to you. As a small-time deal guy, I am attracted to people who have achieved something and now want my help as opposed to just wanting my time or money with no plan.

Grant makes the point vigorously that your achievement needs to be told. He contends, You have to put your work out there. Today that means social media. But the self-promotion needs to be about your ideas, not just about yourself or where you vacationed or a picture of your expensive car or meal.

Most of us hate to toot our own horns  and the evidence is that self-promotion is not very effective. The better result is to be praised by someone else. I have more than a few acquaintances who are shameless shouters, and I am deaf to them. Grant says, Let your insights and your outputs  not your business cards  do the talking.

Grant and I finally do come to a minor divergence on the issue of networking events. My Rule No. 3 says, Go to all of the events and meetings, in particular the ones that you are sure are a total waste of time. I find those events are the ones where the best stuff happens for me. It is because I am totally available  no expectations, no defenses, no agenda. Grant argues for networking events where there is a shared purpose. It is an organizing principle for sharing thoughts and feelings. I like that, but I am also down with doing some unstructured hanging (I can still do 45 minutes before they go in for dinner and I have to head for the hills).

Neil Senturia, a serial entrepreneur who invests in early-stage technology companies, writes weekly about entrepreneurship in San Diego. Please email ideas to Neil at neil@blackbirdv.com.

Rule No. 529: Buy a trumpet, but play it softly.
Vista voters will get a chance to decide whether to allow medical marijuana dispensaries to operate legally in town  but not until November 2018.

A petition effort to let voters weigh in on allowing pot shops gathered enough signatures to land on the ballot in Vistas next general election, but fell short of the signatures needed to force the city to hold a special election, according to county Registrar of Voters findings released by Vista on Monday.

Vista currently forbids dispensaries. The proposed initiative, financially backed by people with ties to the industry, calls for allowing one dispensary for every 10,000 residents, which would be at least 10 dispensaries. The initiative also would allow the city to license, regulate and tax dispensaries at 7 percent.

Advertisement

Nearly 8,000 people signed the petition circulated by the group Vistans for Safe Community Access. But, by the registrars estimate, only about 5,600 signatures were valid Vista voters.

While that count lands the matter on the ballot in the general election, its short of the 6,326 needed to force a costly special election  which, at an estimated $350,000, would be more than tenfold what the city spent on its general election last year.

Attorney Josh Hamlin, who is a spokesman for Vistans for Safe Community Access, said in an email that the group is reviewing this matter on behalf of the voters that petitioned for this initiative. We intend to pursue this matter to the fullest extent possible.

The failure by the citizens initiative to force a special election gives the City Council time to throw a counter punch.

City Council members have criticized the citizens initiative as too permissive. They fear it would allow far too many dispensaries in too many differing locations throughout the city, and that it would make it harder to deter or shut down illegal shops.

In the face of the citizens initiative, the City Council recently signaled a willingness to consider changing the rules to allow perhaps two or three dispensaries to operate (including delivery service), though with heavy restrictions.

The City Council has options, including instituting either the citizens initiative or creating its own, more restrictive ordinance before the November 2018 general election. Even if the council creates an ordinance, the citizens initiative likely will still land on the fall 2018 ballot  and its passage would override the rules on the books.

Aside from the dueling proposals, another one is newly joining the mix. The Association of Cannabis Professionals qualified to start circulating petitions for an initiative that would regulate zoning for cannabis businesses in Vista. The group has until Feb. 20 to turn in the petition.

Allowing dispensaries would mark a complete reversal for Vista, which since 2013 has spent upward of $1 million to shut down a few dozen of them illegally operating in the city. Vista has also taken the unusual step of going after some store operators, staffers and even landlords in criminal court for misdemeanor violations of city zoning regulations.

The ballot box battle comes as public attitudes about marijuana have shifted toward acceptance. Medicinal use of marijuana has been legal in California for more than two decades, and last year California voters passed a proposition legalizing it for recreational use.

And a recent city-commissioned poll of 400 Vista voters found that more than half of them backed the idea of allowing dispensaries to open in the city.

The Council will take up the marijuana matters  the initiative and its own potential ordinance  at its Sept. 26 meeting.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
Bonnie Wright, Fresh Sounds founder and artistic director, has spent two decades roaming out-of-the-way places where Americas musical mavericks perform, from Ojai to Knoxville, Tenn. Wrights commitment to expanding San Diegos musical horizons has found an ever-growing audience, and the word long ago went out among artists that playing in Bonnies series offered an opportunity to take risks in a receptive atmosphere, no matter that the fee would be small (although camping out in Wrights canyon house in Mission Hills would be cool.)

Those risks paid off Saturday evening at Bread and Salt in Barrio Logan, where Wright continues to showcase artists who have appeared over the series 20-year history, in this concert a fellow who has quite definitely gone his own way in the new music world: off-handed raconteur, opera composer and virtuoso bagpiper Matthew Welch.

The Scots have made historic contributions in science, design, literature, and the arts. And while it may be true that the Irish were the original creators of the bagpipe (it also may not), the bagpipe must surely stand as the emblem of Scottish musical sensibility.

Advertisement

But what is that sensibility? What fascinates some and repels others about this strange contraption, a cloth bag with pipes angled out of it, breathed into life with considerable physical effort?

In his 90-minute-plus solo performance on Saturday night, Welch laid out his instruments contradictory capabilities, displayed its traditions and showed how its challenges -- when faced with imagination, physical strength and mental concentration  can be transcended.

The big challenge is the instruments nearly unvarying sound color, an in-your-face combination of bass drone and the keening penetration of the melody played on the small recorder-like pipe underneath the bag. The player has a few tools to vary the music, mainly different meters and their divisions into beats, tempo and the grace notes that break up the melody line. Before all of that, however, the pipe must be tuned, an essential process that lines up, one might say, the overtones, so that the listeners ears will not be beaten to death.

Welchs attention to tuning kept the sound pure in timbre and clean in line, and gave all the traditional music  jigs, reels, marches, even a lullaby  a clean-lined crispness.

As he moved into non-traditional works, his own compositions as well as music by minimalist Philip Glass and jazz legend Anthony Braxton, Welch found a path to something I never thought Id hear: the bagpipe as a lyric instrument, capable of poetic expression as well as martial aggressiveness. From his experience in Balinese music, he summoned a gamelan-like shimmer out of the instrument that folded two cultures inside each other, and sometimes an evocation of Scottish musics close cousin, Norwegian folk music, as dance rhythms common to both burbled up in the traditional works.

The bagpipe once called Scotsmen to war, and the peremptory character of a summons often echoed around Bread and Salts brick walls Saturday night, so much so that I could have sworn that Maurice Ravels ghost must have been aroused, for at one point a phrase and chord progression from the French composers Bolero seemed to pass by a few times.

But why should that have been surprising? Welch had already shown us that  when your mind is receptive and your ears are open  a black bag and some wooden pipes can indeed rouse the dead and make you want to dance.

Overton is a freelance writer.
The Navys head of surface forces, Vice Adm. Tom Rowden, wants to speed up his retirement several months as the military branch responds to repeated warship collisions in the Western Pacific.

Word of Rowdens request broke at the same time the Navy announced a round of new firings of commanders in the West Pacific tied to the deaths of 17 sailors.

In an email sent Thursday, shortly after a long meeting with Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Scott Swift, Rowden asked Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson to let him retire earlier than planned  around April instead of in the summer.

Advertisement

As commander of the Coronado-based Naval Surface Forces, Rowden, 58, is tasked with helping prep crews and warships for overseas deployments.

By vacating his post early, Rowden gives Richardson the head start to pick a new surface warfare boss to work closely with Swift to continue safety and seamanship reforms launched last week.

The decision to request an earlier retirement date than originally discussed was based upon my recognition of the need for new leadership in the Surface Forces, said Rowden in a written statement emailed to The San Diego Union-Tribune.

The way ahead requires broad and bold transformation, and is deserving of stimulating change from the top-down. I felt it appropriate to provide the chief of naval operations with the time for due diligence in finding the proper relief. I remain fully committed to improving the readiness of the Surface Force, providing continuity of leadership and setting my relief, and more importantly the Navy, up for success in the future.

Rowden spent Monday in meetings with Navy officials in Yokosuka, Japan.

A Navy news release issued Monday indicated that the new commander of the Japan-based Seventh Fleet, Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, has fired the commander of Task Force 70, Rear Adm. Charles Williams, and the skipper of Destroyer Squadron 15, Capt. Jeffrey Bennett, due to a loss of confidence in their ability to command.

Swift dismissed Sawyers predecessor, Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, on Aug. 23.

Richardson has ordered an operational pause for all fleets worldwide and directed Adm. Phil Davidson of Fleet Forces Command to oversee a deeper analysis of the problems plaguing the Seventh Fleet.

Neither Richardson nor the new Secretary of the Navy, Richard V. Spencer, must accept Rowdens retirement or his request to accelerate the process. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis also could weigh in on the decision.

Richardson and Spencer are slated to testify on Tuesday morning before the Senate Armed Services Committee on the rash of accidents that have bedeviled the surface fleet in Asian waters over the past nine months.

On Jan. 31, the cruiser Antietam ran aground on rocks along the Japanese coast. Less than five months later, the cruiser Lake Champlain bashed a South Korean fishing boat. Then came the June 17 destroyer Fitzgerald crash with a merchant vessel and, on Aug. 21, the collision of an oil tanker with the destroyer John S. McCain east of Singapore.

The Fitzgerald and McCain crashes claimed the lives of 17 sailors and tolled hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to the guided-missile warships.

Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Sibayan of Chula Vista and Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass of Oceanside were two of the seven sailors drowned when the Fitzgerald flooded.

The Associated Press reported on Monday that Mattis said military officials are eyeing whether budget constraints triggered a wave of such accidents across the armed forces.

Since mid-July, nearly 100 U.S. service members have been killed or injured in close to a dozen mishaps, among them ship collisions, military aircraft crashes and a Marine amphibious vehicle that ran over a gas line at Camp Pendleton, according to the AP.

Mattis said that the military cant keep doing more with less and denied that his commanders are afraid to admit that their troops arent ready for the missions theyre given.

Hours before he requested early retirement on Thursday, Rowden and Swift told the Union-Tribune about a series of reforms they were launching to help fix the crash problems in the Pacific, including steps designed to revamp a Navy culture that put the tempo of operations ahead of proper maintenance and training of sailors plying the busy sea lanes of Asian waters.

Called the Naval Surface Group Western Pacific, the initiative will be skippered by a yet-unnamed captain who has held major command at sea. The program will be run by a staff of 30 to 50 experts in maritime engineering, safety, maintenance, seamanship and training.

Seizing on the urgency of the situation, the programs director will report directly to Swift. Its modeled on similar past and present detachments used by the Navy in the Philippines, Hawaii and Bahrain.

This is about taking care of our entire Navy family and ensuring that they have the tools and resources to be able to get the job done, Rowden told the Union-Tribune on Thursday.

Rowden is considered a key architect of the Navys distributed lethality reforms designed to make surface warships more tactically proficient. The changes are designed to meet the challenge from technological gains by rival powers in the Pacific, such as China and Russia.

Before taking the helm of Naval Surface Forces, Rowden spent years at sea in cruisers, destroyers and aircraft carriers.

He commanded the destroyer Milius, the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, Destroyer Squadron 60, U.S. Naval Forces Korea and Surface Warfare Officers School Command in Rhode Island, where he oversaw the training of every officer bound for duty on ships at sea.

His decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Military Videos  On Now D-Day paratrooper from Coronado jumps again in France  at age 96 On Now Remembering war's fallen, one name at a time On Now In Ramona, an airplane and an aviator provide living lessons on World War II 1:43 On Now Video: Navy's newest vessel sails into San Diego and a new future in surface warfare On Now Video: U.S. Navy files homicide charges over warship collisions On Now Stopping Marine hazing On Now Video: U.S. Navy Air Crew Grounded After Creating Vulgar Sky Drawing On Now Navy says Asia Pacific ship collisions were avoidable On Now Hundreds of recruits get sick at Marine boot camp On Now Cutler Dawson Talks Navy Federal

cprine@sduniontribune.com
We value your privacy.

Focus Taiwan (CNA) uses tracking technologies to provide better reading experiences, but it also respects readers' privacy. Click here to find out more about Focus Taiwan's privacy policy. When you close this window, it means you agree with this policy.
A 79-year-old retired barber was sentenced Friday to life in prison plus 10 years, without the possibility of parole, for fatally shooting a urologist inside the doctors Newport Beach office in 2013.

An Orange County Superior Court jury on Aug. 21 found Stanwood Elkus guilty of first-degree murder for using a fake name to make an appointment with Ronald Gilbert and then shooting the physician 10 times when he walked into the exam room.

Elkus had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but jurors determined he was sane at the time of the killing.

Advertisement

Gilberts family and friends shared memories of him Friday and took aim at Elkus, calling him evil and a foolish coward before Judge Patrick Donahue handed down the maximum sentence.

There could be no punishment as great as the hate he has in his heart, Gilberts childhood friend, Julie Harold Carter, said. Hell go to his grave knowing that he is reviled.

Elizabeth Gilbert spoke quietly about how the laughter in her home was silenced when her husband was killed days before his 53rd birthday.

The world was robbed of a model citizen  our children were robbed of an amazing father, she said.

Halfway through family members statements, Elkus, who has hearing loss, removed the headphones that helped him hear the proceedings. He stared ahead, only occasionally glancing back to the podium where Gilberts family and friends stood to address the court. He placed the headphones over his ears again when it was time to hear his sentence.

Senior Deputy Dist. Atty. Matt Murphy had told jurors at the outset of the roughly three-week trial that Elkus was seething over a 1992 surgery when he drove to Gilberts office and shot him on Jan. 28, 2013.

Elkus blamed what he called a botched surgery for his incontinence, erectile dysfunction, diminished sex drive and ultimately the loss of his longtime girlfriend, whom he wanted to marry.

In 1992, Gilbert, then a young medical resident, worked with a team of doctors to diagnose Elkus with a urethral stricture  a narrowing of the urethra  at the veterans hospital in Long Beach after he complained of frequent urination, Murphy said.

Two other VA doctors performed the surgery  without Gilbert  to widen Elkus urethra, but Elkus held a grudge against Gilbert, Murphy said.

hannah.fry@latimes.com

Fry writes for Times Community News
Six California beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program sued the Trump administration Monday for rescinding protections for young immigrants without legal status.

In the 46-page suit filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco just after midnight, the so-called Dreamers claimed Trumps decision to phase out the DACA program over the next six months was motivated by unconstitutional bias against Mexicans and Latinos.

The federal DACA program shields from deportation nearly 800,000 immigrants who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children, providing recipients with renewable two-year work permits.

Advertisement

The lawsuit seeks to block the Trump administration from ending the program.

The Dreamers argue that the government, in asking the programs vulnerable applicants to identify themselves and undergo background checks in exchange for protection to live and work in the United States, was engaging in an unconstitutional bait-and-switch and that terminating the DACA program breaks the governments promises to them.

The DACA program has meant not living in fear, and the opportunity to graduate from law school and build a business, Dulce Garcia, one of the plaintiffs, said in a statement. And despite the administrations cruel choice to end DACA, we know that our American dream shouldnt have an expiration date.

Garcia, a San Diego attorney, was brought to the U.S. from Mexico when she was 4, according to the lawsuit.

The other plaintiffs include two middle school teachers, a UC San Francisco medical student who is working on a public health degree from Harvard, and a PhD candidate in clinical psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena. Five of the plaintiffs, according to the lawsuit, were brought to the U.S. from Mexico between the ages of 1 and 6, and one was brought to the U.S. from Thailand at 9.

Viridiana Chabolla Mendoza, one of the plaintiffs, was brought to the U.S. from Mexico when she was 2. Now 26, she is a first-year law student at UC Irvine. In 2012, she was accepted to the DACA program during her senior year at Pomona College, where she got her undergraduate degree, and was therefore able to work at two law firms while she saved money for law school.

Chabolla Mendoza, who grew up in East Los Angeles, said she only knows Mexico through her relatives stories about it. She has wanted to be a lawyer since she was a child.

When I was really little, my grandpa would tell me lawyers were able to fight with words, she said. I am not a physical person. Im pretty meek. But I can write. I can argue.

Chabolla Mendoza was only a few days into her first year of law school when U.S. Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions on Sept. 5 announced that the Obama-era program would be phased out. She was walking to class as she watched a live-stream video of Sessions announcement on her phone.

Honestly, this is something Ive been dreading since the election, she said. In my mind, Ive tried to keep a positive frame of mind, like, well be OK and push for larger immigration reform. Once there started being more concrete rumors about DACA being rescinded, I started being really anxious.  But I knew my next action would be to fight.

The Dreamers lawsuit says that when DACA was first launched in 2012, the government vigorously promoted it, encouraging young people  many of whom were skeptical about identifying themselves  to apply for the program and stated that the information they provided about themselves or family members would not be used for immigration enforcement purposes, absent special circumstances.

That the government made such promises to young immigrants, only to revoke them, violates their constitutional due process rights, the plaintiffs allege.

The Dreamers say that with their sensitive personal information provided to the federal government no longer protected from disclosure, DACA recipients face the imminent risk that the information could be used against them at any time, without notice, and that they could be deported.

The lawsuit alleges Trump was moved to end the program because of animus toward Latinos, especially those from Mexico, who make up the vast majority of DACA applicants. Such a motivation, the suit alleges, violates constitutional equal protection guarantees.

Trumps statements and actions reflect a pattern of bias against Mexicans and Latinos, the suit states. It references Trumps assertion last year that a federal judge presiding over a lawsuit against Trump University was biased because he was Latino, as well as his pardoning last month of Joe Arpaio, the former sheriff in Arizona who had been convicted of criminal contempt for defying a court order to end racial profiling of Latinos.

The suit also quotes numerous tweets from the president, including those that reference anchor babies and claim that druggies, drug dealers, rapists and killers are coming across the southern border.

Earlier this month, the 10-campus University of California sued the Trump administration, saying that ending DACA violates young immigrants rights on nothing more than unreasoned executive whim. UC President Janet Napolitano helped to create the DACA program when she was U.S. Homeland Security secretary under President Obama.

Days after the UC filing, the state of California also sued.

State Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra said he decided to file a suit separate from legal actions by 15 other states, the University of California and civil rights activists because California and its economy will be hurt the most by the presidents decision to end DACA

There is no state that will be more economically impacted by the Trump administrations unconstitutional and illegal termination of DACA than California, Becerra said.

hailey.branson@latimes.com

Twitter: @haileybranson

UPDATES:

11:30 a.m.: This article was updated with information from Viridiana Chabolla Mendoza and additional details about other DACA-related lawsuits.

9:15 a.m.: This article was updated with additional details from the lawsuit.

This article was originally published at 7:50 a.m.
A local sheriffs deputy, who claimed he had suffered a back injury but may have been seen working out with heavy weights at a gym, has been charged with committing workers compensation insurance fraud resulting in $57,000 in losses, prosecutors announced Monday.

Matthew Tobolsky, 40, faces 14 counts including insurance fraud, filing a false claim, attempted perjury and failing to disclose information that affects a payment, according to the District Attorneys Office.

The charges carry a potential sentence of up to 15 years in custody, which would most likely be served in county jail.

Advertisement

Reached by phone Monday afternoon, Tobolsky denied the allegations.

I can tell you that all these charges are 100 percent false, he told a Union-Tribune reporter.

He declined to elaborate, saying, Other than that I dont think it would be a good idea to make any other comments.  I hope the truth comes out.

Tobolsky has not yet had an opportunity to enter a plea in the case. He is scheduled to be arraigned in San Diego Superior Court Wednesday afternoon.

According to the District Attorneys Office, Tobolsky claimed in January that he had injured his back from lifting two five-gallon water bottles. But an investigation, initiated by the Sheriffs Department, indicated Tobolsky had misrepresented his physical condition and what he could or could not do.

Authorities said Tobolsky told medical professionals that he was suffering from debilitating pain and was unable to do light duty on the job. But the investigation revealed he was able to work out with weights at a gym.

Of the $57,000 in losses, $46,000 was paid directly to the defendant, prosecutors said.

The Sheriffs Department investigated the case with help from the state Department of Insurance and the District Attorneys Offices Insurance Fraud Division.

Staff reporter David Hernandez contributed to this report.

dana.littlefield@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @danalittlefield
A bipartisan congressional proposal announced Monday seeks to help stop ongoing sewage and wastewater spills in Tijuana from polluting the San Diego region.

Reps. Juan Vargas, D-San Diego, and Darrell Issa, R-Vista, said they will be pushing hard for Congress to embrace HR 3795, dubbed the Tijuana River Valley Comprehensive Protection and Rehabilitation Act.

Sewage from Tijuana has been flowing into the Tijuana River Valley, into beaches in San Diego County and our communities for too long, Vargas said in a statement. This legislation will help rehabilitate the Tijuana River Valley and rebuild the infrastructure needed to prevent future spills.

Advertisement

The bill, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, would direct the Army Corp of Engineers to create a blueprint for updating, among other things, wastewater treatment facilities, aging pipes and systems to capture spills before they contaminate beaches.

The Army Corp would then prioritize grants that receive state and local matching funds to help pay for the targeted projects.

The impact of these continuing spills will be felt for generations to come, unless we take action to stop it now, Issa said in a statement. Solving this problem will only come with strong bipartisan and international cooperation. Im proud of the work Juan and I have put into this bill to ensure that it gets cleaned up and that we take preventative measures to ensure it never happens again.

Tijuanas infrastructure has suffered under heavy rains but routinely breaks down in dry weather too, forcing South Bay communities frequently to close beaches. Imperial Beach, which stretches past the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge to the Mexican border, has had sections of its shoreline off-limits to swimmers for more than a third of each year on average in the last decade, according to county records.

Not every spill makes it all the way to the ocean. Thousands of gallons of polluted water from Mexico have continued to soak the Tijuana River Valley every month this year, including more than a dozen spills since April.

This has infuriated Border Patrol agents, whose union has said its members are routinely chasing down illegal crossers through contaminated muck and water.

The continued flows come in the wake of a massive spill in February that dumped millions of gallons of sewage into the Pacific Ocean, fouling beaches as far north as Coronado for weeks. Following the event officials in Baja California acknowledged that Tijuanas sewer network needs significant upgrades and released a list of projects that, if funded, could greatly reduce the flow of pollution.

While officials hope to avoid a repeat of last winter, significant upgrades could take years or even decades.

In the meantime, this bill would create a monitoring system to alert residents through a publicly accessible database when spills occur.

I am grateful to Congressman Vargas for working in a bi-partisan way to support efforts to clean up the Tijuana River and stop border pollution that results in beach closures in Imperial Beach and Coronado, said Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina, whose city has taken legal steps aimed at forcing the federal government to take action.

There is nothing more important to our economy and way of life in Imperial Beach than making sure our kids and families have access to our beaches 365 days a year, he added.

The proposal comes on the heels of a spending package approved by the House last week that would eliminate the U.S.-Mexico Border Water Infrastructure Grant Program, which has helped facilitate upgrades to prevent sewage spills in Tijuana.

Ending the grant program is part of a roughly 7 percent cut to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that would drastically limit resources to protect clean air and water, officials said.

One of the many reasons its so important for us to pass the bill weve introduced, is that it provides a reliable, dedicated stream of funding that makes the Tijuana River Valley its chief priority, Issa said. The benefit of this plan is that it zeros in on the funding and infrastructure we need right here, right now.

If the recently announced bill can attract support, it would follow up on similar efforts in the late 1990s. Before the two countries spent billions of dollars to construct treatment plants on both sides of the border, around 10 million gallons of raw sewage a day flowed down the Tijuana River and into San Diego County.

Twitter: @jemersmith

Phone: (619) 293-2234

Email: joshua.smith@sduniontribune.com
Several hundred dreamers who enlisted in the Army through a special program are worried that they will be deported before they get to serve.

For most participants in the Obama administrations Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, a countdown to an uncertain future began last week when Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the program would be phased out beginning in March.

For DACA recipients in the military, that countdown began long ago, as they watched bureaucratic delays run down the clock on the number of days theyre allowed to wait between signing their contracts and shipping to basic training. Many are stuck in a limbo that means if their DACA permits expire before they ship, they will no longer be able to serve, forfeiting a chance at U.S. citizenship.

Advertisement

Its kind of messing up our lives, said John Anthony Sena, 20, a Filipino DACA recipient who signed his contract with the Army about a year and a half ago. If I dont ship out, its basically game over.

Meanwhile, the Washington Post has reported that U.S. Army recruiters have begun canceling enlistment contracts for foreign-born military recruits. That would change their immigration status and make them subject to deportation.

Most of the U.S. military requires enlistees to have at least a green card, if not U.S. citizenship. Before the Obama administration halted the program in 2016, the Military Accessions Vital to National Interest program, or MAVNI, allowed non-citizens who didnt have green cards to join the Army if they had needed medical credentials or fluency in a language needed by the military.

Created in 2009, the program required participants to have some kind of temporary visa, like a student visa, that allowed them to be in the U.S. legally. In 2014, the program began accepting people from the DACA program, and in the process, MAVNI increased security checks, causing years-long delays. Many DACA recipients who signed contracts with the Army are still waiting to finish their security interviews and go on to basic training, which is when they would become eligible to naturalize as U.S. citizens.

Sena, who lives in Covina, came to the U.S. when he was about 10. He has wanted to join the military since he was a child. His mother worked at a restaurant next to a recruitment office for the Marines, and he grew up admiring them.

He found out that he didnt have legal status in the U.S. in high school when he tried to join the Marines. His parents hadnt told him, even when they signed him up for DACA for the first time when it came out in 2012, he said.

When I knew that, I was distraught for weeks, Sena said. What am I going to do after high school? I was totally out of options.

Hes been worried about whether he would actually be allowed to serve since his original basic training date was delayed in 2016. Finding out that DACA was going away amplified his worry, he said.

Sena still shows up for training every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 a.m. while he waits. In the meantime, hes studying nursing at a community college.

He and his twin, who is also a DACA recipient enlisted with MAVNI, joke about their situation to keep their spirits up.

We are the most vetted undocumented people in the country, Sena said, referring to the repeated background checks for DACA and the security clearances required for MAVNI.

Many anticipate that the MAVNI program will not be reopened for applications. Those who have already applied but havent shipped out have 730 days from when they sign their contracts before their contracts expire. Army recruiters were recently given the option to extend those wait times one more year for those who opt to stay in the program, according to several MAVNI recruits.

Several lawsuits have come out of the delays as some MAVNI recruits havent been able to extend their visas while they wait.

The Washington Post obtained a Pentagon memo drafted this summer that listed 2,400 foreign recruits with signed contracts who are drilling in reserve units but have not been naturalized and have not gone to basic training. About 1,800 others were waiting for their active-duty training to begin.

The document acknowledges 1,000 of those troops waited so long that they are no longer in legal status and could be exposed to deportation. That number probably has climbed since the memo was drafted in May or June. Lawmakers have asked President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to intervene on behalf of those recruits.

Sen. Kamala Harris and Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, recently sponsored an amendment that would protect MAVNI recruits while they wait for security clearance.

Margaret Stock, an attorney in Alaska and retired Army officer who launched the MAVNI program, estimated that out of about 900 DACA recipients who joined, about 350 are still waiting.

She blames the current state of the MAVNI program on xenophobia.

Its very harmful for national security to have such an anti-immigrant attitude at the Pentagon, Stock said. You need to get qualified people for the U.S. military. Thats how weve won our wars. If youre going to turn your backs on the immigrants, you might as well give up.

She wishes that DACA recipients had been allowed to enlist in other parts of the military since many dont qualify for the MAVNI program.

These folks are an asset to the U.S., not a liability, Stock said. If we deport them, were essentially providing U.S. educated people to foreign countries. It doesnt make sense for national security.

President Trump has indicated that he sympathizes with DACA recipients in the military.

Reports that Trump had negotiated a deal with Democrats to pass some kind of protection for dreamers surfaced this week. But there was continued confusion about the details and whether a deal had actually been reached.

Trump tweeted, Does anybody really want to throw out good, educated and accomplished young people who have jobs, some serving in the military? Really!..

Senas DACA permit expires in October next year. If he is still in limbo when that happens, it will be too late.

Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence

Follow me on Facebook for live updates about immigration news

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on Twitter
San Diego County is on track to take in fewer refugees in fiscal 2017 than any year in the last decade.

Unless the county resettles more than 500 refugees in September, it will have welcomed fewer than 2,000 refugees for the first time since fiscal 2007, according to State Department data. While in years past, San Diego County has resettled several hundred refugees in the month of September, that is unlikely this year given current court rulings on an executive order from President Donald Trump that blocked most refugees from entering the U.S.

Jewish Family Service, one of San Diegos four refugee resettlement agencies, expects to receive a total of six refugees in September, according to Etleva Bejko, director of refugee and immigration services.

Advertisement

This year has been a trying one for the refugee community and those who aid them, Bejko said. Jewish Family Service believes that stopping refugee resettlement, for any period of time, undermines our nations founding principles and turns away those seeking safety, freedom, hope and opportunity.

Those who support Trumps immigration policies often cite both national security and economic reasons when discussing the need to curb arrivals.

In August, San Diego County resettled 16 refugees, all from Iraq. Thats a 97 percent decrease from Augusts 619 arrivals last year. Resettlement counts have been in the teens for the last several months.

With one month to go, San Diego County has had 1,479 new arrivals. In fiscal 2016, the county took in 3,075 refugees.

Trumps travel ban executive order lowered the number of refugees the U.S. would accept in fiscal 2017 to 50,000 from 110,000. After it was signed in January and then modified in March, the order has been caught up in court battles with judges overturning each others rulings again and again.

The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the full travel ban case in early October. By then, it will be a new fiscal year, and that may make conversations about the refugee arrivals aspect of the order moot. The president has the authority to set how many refugees can come to the U.S. each year.

For the last several months, resettlement agencies have anticipated that Trump will set next years cap at 50,000. More recent rumors have suggested that at least some in his administration want the cap to be lower.

Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence

Follow me on Facebook for live updates about immigration news

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on Twitter
With Southern Californias traditional wildfire season about to begin, San Diego officials say Santa Ana winds could whip up severe local firestorms fueled by dead trees from the drought and excessive brush from last winters heavy rains.

Ive been doing this nearly 40 years and I dont know that Ive seen the fuel as stricken and as in dire need of moisture as it is now, San Diego Fire Chief Brian Fennessy told the City Councils public safety committee on Monday.

Fennessy said other reasons for concern are that significant rain isnt expected until after November, and that forecasters predict humidity will also be low this fall.

Advertisement

Reasons for optimism, he said, are tropical weather in recent weeks that brought moisture to communities on the coast and rain to inland areas.

In addition, lessons learned during the 2003 and 2007 wildfires have put San Diego in better position regarding staffing, equipment and efforts to limit flammable brush in wildland-urban interface zones.

Other fire officials across the region have painted a less dire picture of the upcoming fire season than Fennessy, declining to characterize the level of risk as higher than a typical year.

But even the most optimistic officials warn that powerful Santa Ana winds could create blazes too large and formidable for firefighters to contain.

Fennessy said he expects local fire risk, which he characterized as the regions No. 1 threat, to continue rising in coming years.

The reality is the climate has changed, the fuels are drier, the fire spread is faster and the threat to life and property has never been greater, said Fennessy. We prepare for earthquakes, terrorism  you name the emergency  but if you look over history the property loss, the life loss has largely occurred during wildland fire.

The key difference this year, Fennessy said, is thick brush and grass in many areas because of the heavy rains from last November through April.

He said fires could start in such brush or grass and spread into thicker brush and decaying trees that have been dead and bone dry since a multi-year drought that ended last year.

To fight wildfires, San Diego has 82 traditional fire engines, 21 ladder trucks and 12 off-road engines tailored specifically for wildfires.

The Fire Department also has added  since the 2003 and 2007 fires  two special state fire engines, two helicopters that can drop 375 gallons of water and a heli-tanker funded by San Diego Gas & Electric with a 2,600-gallon capacity.

It is a giant helicopter that drops huge amounts of water and foam, Fennessy said.

The city also began in 2007 inspecting each of the roughly 45,000 houses located inside the wildland-urban interface, to make sure excess brush and other fire hazards are limited or removed.

The programs seven employees allow the city to visit about 13,000 homes per year, requiring between three and four years to inspect every home at least once.

Deputy Chief Doug Perry said an additional eight workers, which the department has previously requested, would allow the city to inspect every home in the interface at least once every 18 months.

San Diego may also benefit during this falls fire season from Californias commitment to mutual aid, where firefighters from other areas come to San Diego during a major fire and vice versa.

But Fennessy said the programs benefits to San Diego are limited by geography and many departments deciding to offer up fewer firefighters to ensure that they have enough on hand if a fire breaks out locally.

Where we are challenged is we live in the cul de sac of the state, he said, noting that mutual aid can essentially only come to San Diego on Interstate 5 or 15 because the city is surrounded on three sides by a desert, a foreign country and the ocean.

He said San Diego has been sending fewer firefighters in recent years to fight fires in other areas, because they might suddenly be needed here if a local wildfire breaks out.

We are very judicious about what we send out of the city, Fennessy said.

Local residents are encouraged to create a household disaster plan that covers use of fire extinguishers, evacuation routes and related issues. Details are available at sandiego.gov/fire.

Deputy Chief Perry said its crucial that residents evacuate immediately when instructed by law enforcement.

Your house is replaceable  you and your family arent, he said.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick
Two teenagers were injured in a gang-related shooting in the Grant Hill neighborhood of San Diego late Saturday night, authorities said.

Two groups of people at the corner of 30th Street and J Street were arguing shortly before midnight Saturday when a suspect pulled out a handgun andshot a 16-year-old boy in the left calf and a 18-year-old man in the right ankle, said San Diego police Officer Robert Heims.

The suspect, who was last seen wearing a white tank top and dark shorts, fled in an unknown direction, Heims said.

Advertisement

The victims were taken to the hospital to be treated. Their injuries were not thought to be life threatening, Heims said.

karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com
A 33-year-old off-duty police officer from Yuma, Ariz., was arrested Friday in San Diego on suspicion of sexual assault, San Diego police said.

Jared Elkins was arrested around 4:30 a.m. Friday after police responded to a report of a sexual assault on Marlborough Drive near Adams Avenue in Kensington, said San Diego police Lt. Scott Wahl.

Wahl said the investigation was still ongoing. No other information was released.

Advertisement

A spokeswoman for the Yuma Police Department said that Elkins had been on the Yuma force for seven years. The department is placing him on administrative leave until further notice, said Yuma Officer Janet Sanchez.

karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com
Two teenagers were stabbed after an argument at a Bay Terraces house party early Sunday morning, San Diego police said.

A 15-year-old was talking with a group of people about 12:25 a.m. in a home around Brookhaven Road and Gatewood Lane when the encounter turned into an argument, Officer Robert Heims said.

The boy was stabbed in his lower back three times. When a 19-year-old man tried to get the boy out of the home, he was stabbed twice in his arm and once in the abdomen.

Advertisement

Both were taken to the hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening.

Neither victim supplied investigators with a description of the suspect or suspects. Detectives in the departments Southeast Division are investigating.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
UC Irvine received a record $200 million donation Monday that symbolizes a philanthropic boom that has been reshaping California universities in recent years, especially in the study and treatment of human disease.

Newport Beach billionaire Henry Samueli and his wife Susan gave UCI the money to name and develop a College of Health Sciences that will focus on integrative health.

Irvine officials say the $200 million represents the seventh-largest gift ever made to a single public university.

Advertisement

The donation comes just a few months after a foundation representing the late philanthropist Helen Diller gave UC San Francisco $500 million for the study of cancer.

Three months before that, Taner Halicioglu, who helped create Facebook, gave UC San Diego $75 million to help the school expand in data science. The school is half-way through a $2 billion capital campaign.

In 2016, Philip H. Knight, a co-founder of Nike, donated $400 million to Stanford University to underwrite graduate students who are working on such issues as climate change and poverty. Businessman Charlie Munger gave UC Santa Barbara $200 million to build dorms.

And tech entrepreneur Larry Ellison gave the University of Southern California $200 million to create an institute for transformative medicine. USC is in the midst of a $6 billion fund-raising campaign, one of the largest programs of its kind in U.S. history.

It looks like all of the people have a connection to California and want to give back, said Alan Gin, an economist at the University of San Diego.

Three of the four Samueli (UCLA), Diller (UC Berkeley), and Halicioglu (UCSD)] graduated from the UC system, so it is not surprising that they donated to UCs.

Ellison did not, which is probably why he gave to USC. They all did well in California  Samueli, Halicioglu, and Ellison in tech and Diller in real estate. So they are successful, have money, and wanted to pay it forward by helping the states educational institutions.

I expect more of that will happen in the future, given the huge wealth that has accumulated in California, primarily from tech and real estate. That is important because it will keep the schools competitive and maybe allow future students to go out and make fortunes of their own.

The $200 million gift to UC Irvine comes at a time when the school is struggling to deal with a crush of enrollment that has resulted, in part, from its high national ranking.

The campus is tied with UC San Diego for 9th on US News and World Reports latest rankings of the countrys best public colleges and universities.

In announcing the gift, Susan Samueli said in a statement, Despite our technological advances, too many people still suffer from chronic conditions such as pain, diabetes and heart disease or are caught in a cycle of taking too many medications.

We must change what we mean by healthcare and how we train all who provide care, including physicians, nurses and pharmacists. Todays health science students ask about integrative health from day one; harnessing that interest is key to turning our national system in a better direction.

Irvine officials say the new college will eventually be composed of an institute for integrative medicine, the School of Medicine, the Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, the School of Pharmacy (now a department) and School of Population Health (now a program.)

Integrative medicine addresses the full range of physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual and environmental influences that affect a persons health.

Henry Samueli, co-founder of semiconductor giant Broadcom, and his wife, are long-time benefactors of UCI. They have given the school more than $255 million,cq including $30 millioncq last year to help build a huge science complex.

The new $200 million gift is the second largest donation made this year to an American university.

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

Twitter: @grobbins

gary.robbins@sduniontribune.com
IBM has given UC San Diego a $10 million contract to search for ways to preserve peoples ability to think and remember things clearly to help seniors live in their own homes late into life, perhaps until they die.

The money is aimed at a problem that trips up many older adults  mild cognitive impairment, a condition that can make it difficult to remember simple things like a name, and how do basic tasks like balance a checkbook.

UC San Diego will try to make it easier to detect MCI, whose symptoms can be hard to distinguish from the natural declines in thinking and memory that are a part of aging.

Advertisement

Scientists also are focusing on MCI because the condition can lead to serious forms of dementia, such as Alzheimers disease.

If you can detect it in time, there are ways to dramatically slow MCI down, said Tajana Simunic Rosing, a UC San Diego computer scientist who will help lead a five year study of the matter.

The bad news is that by the time most people go see a doctor theyre already experiencing more severe stages of cognitive decline.

Scientists say the future looks promising due to the rise of web-connected sensors that can observe people with great precision and the availability of computer systems like IBM Watson, which crunch huge sets of health data in search of patterns and meaning.

Theres also a growing sense of urgency about the need to help older adults stay healthy. People are living longer. They want to stay in a home of their choice. And the nations population is aging rapidly, a change that involves great cost.

Medicaid spends about $150 billion a year to provide services and support to older Americans.

Much of the $10 million contract that UC San Diego will get from IBM will be used to study about 50 people who are 65 and older.

Ten of those people will have their homes outfitted with a variety of sensors and electronic devices that will monitor their daily habits and behavior, which provide clues to how clearly people are thinking and remembering things.

The sensors could be placed in everything from cellphones to phone outlets.

We want to use the home environment to learn whats going on with people, Rosing said.

This part of the study also will involve scientists who can help identify cognitive decline by examining subtle changes in behavior, such as a person inexplicably repeating something or taking longer pauses when they speak.

Like the 40 other participants, the ten people also will undergo more classical study. The universitys Center for Healthy Aging will evaluate such things as a persons general physical health, cognitive function and quality of their social life.

Dilip Jeste, the centers director, doesnt expect to have trouble finding participants, noting, Most older people want to avoid going into assisted living, let alone nursing homes. Everyone wants to live independently as long as possible.

 UC San Diego will try to make it easier to detectmild cognitive impairment, whose symptoms can be hard to distinguish from the natural declines in thinking and memory that are a part of aging.

The project also involves studying peoples microbiomes  or the genetic make-up of the micro-organisms that live in and on a persons body, notably in the gut. Scientists believe that a persons ever changing microbiome directly affects their health. The affects on memory and thinking are unclear, but need to be studied, say researchers.

UC San Diego is going to feed IBM Watson a large body of published data about the microbiome, along with readings from the upcoming study.

The university plans to draw study participants from a variety of places, including the Paradise Valley Retirement Community in National City. Researchers are looking for people like Louise Oberlin, one of the communitys residents.

Oberlin is an optimistic soul who nonetheless describes the indignities of aging in frank terms.

Ive noticed that I dont pick things up as quickly, the 73 year-old Oberlin said Friday. I may have to read a page twice to get the whole thing. Its a slowly moving stream of diminishment.

The problems include sometimes forgetting peoples names.

Ill look at people Ive known forever and cant think of their name, said Oberlin. My first thought is that Im embarrassing myself. My second thought is I get to use (the excuse), Im older, Im a senior. Thats natural.

The other part is that it feels bad to not feel competent in my own environment.

On balance, though, she is thriving, saying, Im happy. My life is good. The things that have happened to me have made me be able to love the life that Im in today.

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

Twitter: @grobbins

gary.robbins@sduniontribune.com
Gov. Jerry Browns two latest nominees to the California Public Utilities Commission were confirmed by state lawmakers in the closing hours of the legislative session despite a campaign to stop one of the nominations.

The confirmations of Commissioners Clifford Rechtschaffen and Martha Guzman Aceves were announced Saturday by commission spokeswoman Terrie Prosper.

I look forward to working to help achieve Californias ambitious climate and clean energy goals, and ensure that California consumers enjoy affordable, safe and reliable utility service, Rechtschaffen said in the statement.

Advertisement

Both new commissioners were nominated for six-year terms late last year.

Guzman Aceves previously served as deputy legislative affairs secretary in the Governors Office. Rechtschaffen also worked as a senior adviser to Brown prior to his appointment and also served as an acting director of the California Department of Conservation.

Rechtschaffens nomination to the utilities commission was targeted by Consumer Watchdog, a nonprofit advocacy group. Consumer Watchdog claimed that Rechtschaffen arranged for two state oil regulators to be fired after they suggested penalties against an oil company. The group also said that Rechtschaffen approved reopening the Aliso Canyon gas field north of Los Angeles before the cause of a massive leak in 2015 could be determined.

Rechtschaffen has a long history of doing oil and gas companies bidding at the expense of Californians, the group said.

Prosper said the allegations were baseless. She also provided a letter written by James Wheaton of the Environmental Law Foundation, saying, I do not think that consumers could have a better friend on the commission than Mr. Rechtschaffen.

Sen. Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, whose district includes the San Bruno community that suffered a deadly gas pipeline explosion in 2010, supported the confirmations.

I trust both appointees will make safety, transparency and rate fairness for consumers top priorities, Hill said in a statement.

The California Public Utilities Commission is under criminal investigation by the state Attorney Generals Office for engaging in backchannel communications between utility regulators and executives.

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
Police officers inspect the body of a man killed when he tried to escape a security check point, part of the Indonesian National Polices crack down on a potential cell of the Southeast Asian terrorist network Jemaah Islamiyah in Pidie, Aceh province, early Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Indonesian police said they have captured 13 suspected Islamist militants in various raids since last week when the first four were arrested after a gun battle between police and suspected militants in a paramilitary training camp hidden in Aceh mountains. (AP Photo/Heri Juanda) ( / AP)

Police officers man a security check point, part of the Indonesian National Polices crack down on a potential cell of the Southeast Asian terrorist network Jemaah Islamiyah in Pidie, Aceh province, early Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Indonesian police said they have captured 13 suspected Islamist militants in various raids since last week when the first four were arrested after a gun battle between police and suspected militants in a paramilitary training camp hidden in Aceh mountains. (AP Photo/Heri Juanda) ( / AP)

Indonesian police clashed with suspected Islamic militants in a deadly gun battle in Aceh on Thursday hours after announcing that 14 prisoners in the restive province had been charged with planning terrorist attacks, officials said.

Advertisement

Police were investigating whether the militants were linked to a terrorist threat to shipping in nearby Malacca Strait, national police chief Gen. Bambang Hendarso Danuri told reporters in Jakarta, without elaborating.

News broke on Thursday that Singapores navy has warned that an unnamed terrorist group is planning attacks on oil tankers in the strait, which is one of the worlds busiest shipping lanes.

A police officer was killed and at least 10 were wounded in the battle in Acehs Lamkabeue village, police chief Maj. Gen. Aditya Warman told reporters in the provincial capital Banda Aceh.

Danuri said there were casualties among the suspected militants, but he declined to give details.

The battle comes in a continuing police crackdown on suspected militants in Aceh that police suspect are linked to the Southeast Asian terror network Jemaah Islamiyah.

Police have charged 14 suspected militants arrested in restive Aceh province with planning terrorist attacks, police spokesman Maj. Gen. Edward Aritonang said.

The men were caught in several raids since Feb. 22, when the first four were arrested by police after a gunbattle in a suspected militant training camp in Acehs mountains.

They confessed to undergoing paramilitary training, including weapons use and hand-to-hand combat at the raided camp in preparation for a terrorist attack, he said, declining to specify the alleged target.

Under Indonesias tough counterterrorism laws enacted in 2003, a conviction for planning a terrorist attack can carry a maximum prison term of 20 years.

Another suspect was shot dead by police after he fled with two men on a bus that was stopped at a police checkpoint before dawn Wednesday, Aritonang said. Witnesses said the other two men escaped.
Jason Bautista was convicted Feb. 4 of first-degree murder inthe slaying of Jane Bautista, 41, who was killed on Jan. 14,2003.

Last-minute events delayed but did not halt Fridays sentencing.Bautista first missed his bus to court, then attempted to fire hiscourt-appointed attorney.

Separately, a juror filed an affidavit saying she had changedher mind about her decision to convict for first-degree murder. Shesaid the circumstances of the mother-son relationship, when theycame to light, pointed toward a manslaughter charge, notmurder.

Advertisement

Orange County Superior Court Judge Frank Fasel flatly rejectedboth Bautistas motion and the jurors change of heart.

The jury got it right: first-degree murder. There is no(provision to allow for juror) remorse, said Fasel, according toKCAL9.

Bautista then chose to address the court.

Im very sorry for all my actions, your honor, but it wasnt afirst-degree murder in my opinion, Bautista told the judge,according to the television station.

The judge asked back, Is that it? and hearing that it was,sentenced the defendant to 25 years to life in prison.

Prosecutors said Bautista, a graduate of Paloma Valley HighSchool in Menifee, cut off his mothers head and hands to keepinvestigators from identifying her. The body was found dumped inthe mountains off Ortega Highway.

The killing occurred in Riverside, but Orange County prosecutorstook over the case because the body was found in Orange County.

Bautista, according to prosecutors, got the idea to cut off hismothers head and hands from an episode of HBOs gritty mob drama"The Sopranos.

The Riverside resident admitted killing his mother, but claimedit was an act of accidental self-defense after she put him in a"life-threatening situation by coming at him with a knife.

Bautistas thumbprint, however, was found on his mothersthroat, and her face was badly beaten, KCAL reported.

Bautista, a one-time biochemistry student at Cal State SanBernardino, testified that after his mother was dead, he cut offher head and hands to hide her identity.

The head and hands were later found in a duffel bag in thefamilys Riverside home.

Bautista testified that his mother became abusive as herparanoia and mental illness got worse.

Assistant Public Defender Don Ronaldson told jurors that theabuse Bautista endured included beatings, taunts, threats with aknife and beatings with sticks and clubs, one of which resulted ina visit to an emergency room.

The mothers paranoia left the family homeless at times, as shebelieved neighbors turned against her, he said.

About three months before her death, the mother had beenrelatively OK, but then got worse, and the young man could nolonger tolerate it, Ronaldson said.

Prosecutors argued that her erratic behavior cramped her sonslifestyle, and that he wanted to get rid of her.

Bautistas half-brother, Matthew Montejo, who was 15 years oldwhen his mother was slain, testified for the prosecution, saying hedid not help kill his mother, but helped dispose of her body.

He pleaded guilty to being an accessory to murder and wassentenced to the 749 days he had already been in jail, and thenfreed.
After 70 years of operations, America still cant quite make up its mind about the Central Intelligence Agency. Does it serve the country or its own agenda?

Weekly Newsletter The best of The Saturday Evening Post in your inbox! Join

On this day in 1947, the CIA was established by the U.S. National Security Act. Seventy years later, America still cant quite make up its mind about the Central Intelligence Agency. Does it serve the country or its own agenda?

The agencys declared mission is to monitor foreign threats to our citizens, infrastructure, and allies. It is understandably reluctant to publicize much of its work, but a few years ago it posted several accomplishments on its website. They included identifying terrorist groups and assessing their capabilities, controlling the spread of weapons of mass destruction, gathering intelligence on Russias unpredictable government and economy, and destroying international drug trafficking.

No one can deny that the CIA played important role in helping the U.S. wage the Cold War. Even the Russians credit the agency with preventing the spread of communism into western Europe.

Subscribe and get unlimited access to our online magazine archive. Subscribe Today

If only the agencys record was all so positive. Unfortunately, the CIA has had some memorable failures as well, such as arming the Mujahideen in Afghanistan. It seemed a good idea when these Muslim fighters pushed the Soviet Union out of their country. It seemed a very bad idea when they re-formed as al-Qaeda and ISIS.

The Post became as fascinated by the CIA as the rest of America and published several articles about the agency throughout the 1960s.

The CIA Is Getting Out of Hand

In The CIA Is Getting Out of Hand from the January 4, 1964, issue of the Post, Senator Eugene McCarthy pointed out other jobs the CIA wouldnt be bragging about. They included engineering the overthrow of the governments of Laos, Iran, and Guatemala. (Years later, critics would also place the responsibility for toppling the Chilean government in 1973 on the CIA.) He also mentioned the CIAs botched Cuban coup at the Bay of Pigs.

The agency lacked any accountability, McCarthy wrote, and its activities sometimes ran counter to stated American policy. It was the CIA, he added, that was telling the president that South Vietnam, with U.S. support, could defeat the communist forces and remain an independent republic. They stuck by that opinion for years while America poured lives and fortunes into the war.

To rein in the agency, McCarthy called for a congressional committee to supervise its actions. That committee  the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence  was eventually established in 1976.

Im Glad the CIA Is Immoral

But that oversight was still in the future when Thomas Braden wrote Im Glad the CIA Is Immoral in the May 20, 1967, issue of the Post. He had worked with the agency to counter Soviet propaganda. Through covert operations, he set up programs that would shift the political alignments in labor, arts, and student groups around the world away from the Soviets.

He acknowledged that the agency had purposely hidden these projects from public scrutiny. But if deception, misinformation, and propaganda were immoral, so what? The U.S. was engaged in a cold war with Soviet Russia, he wrote, and war was inherently immoral, wrong and disgraceful.

The cold war was and is a war fought with ideas instead of bombs. And our country has had a clear-cut choice: Either we win the war or lose it.

Letter from the CIA

The intelligence industry has always been associated with issues of right and wrong. It has also been associated with glamour and intrigue.

In 1968, journalist Anne Chamberlin set out to discover if the CIA was as fascinating as she thought. In Letter from the CIA, she reports that the agency flatly turned down her request for a tour or an interview. When she decided to just show up anyway, she found Americas spy headquarters was  surprise! a lot like other Washington bureaucratic offices.

I asked where I could find the man who had asked me not to come and was quickly escorted to a sort of reception room, with government leather couches, magazines on the tables and a desk presided over by a cheerful lady who asked me to fill in a pink form. It asked who I was, who employs me and whom I wanted to see. Then I was issued a large numbered badge and turned over to a young woman who led me to the office of my reluctant host.

Chamberlin eventually got access to the man she had been trying to see, but learned little other than, like any agency, the CIA had budget woes, too.

Whether you love or hate the agency, you can expect to hear more about it in the coming years, as intelligence, not firepower, becomes the first line of our national defense.

Featured image: Illustration by Arnold Roth for Letter from the CIA by Anne Chamberlin, from the March 23, 1968, issue of the Post.
The Bakhshali manuscript, an ancient Indian mathematical manuscript written on more than 70 leaves of birch bark, is notable for having a dot representing zero in it. The date of the manuscript has intrigued scientists for years, with many believing it dated from the 9th century CE. Now researchers from the University of Oxford and the Bodleian Libraries have carbon dated the manuscript and found that it dates from between the 3rd and 4th centuries CE, making it the worlds oldest recorded origin of the zero symbol that we use today.

The Bakhshali manuscript was found in 1881 by a farmer in his field in Bakhshali (near modern Peshawar, Pakistan).

The manuscript is a compendium of rules and illustrative examples. It gives the solutions of the most of the examples together with their verification, and contains material relating to arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.

The topics include fractions, square-root, arithmetical and geometrical progressions, income and expenditure, profit and loss, computation of gold, interest, rule of three, summation of certain complex series, simple equations, simultaneous linear equations, quadratic equations, indeterminate equations of the second degree of a particular type, mensuration and miscellaneous problems.

Written in a variant of Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit, the Bakhshali manuscript is broadly recognized as the oldest Indian mathematical text, however, the exact age of the text is widely contested.

The surprising results of the first ever radiocarbon dating conducted on this manuscript reveal that it dates from as early as the 3rd or 4th century. This means that it in fact predates a 9th-century inscription of zero on the wall of a temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, which was previously considered to be the oldest recorded example of a zero used as a placeholder in India.

The zero symbol that we use today evolved from a dot that was used in ancient India and can be seen throughout the Bakhshali manuscript, said University of Oxford Professor Marcus du Sautoy and co-authors.

The dot was originally used as a placeholder, meaning it was used to indicate orders of magnitude in a number system  for example, denoting 10s, 100s and 1000s.

While the use of zero as a placeholder was seen in several different ancient cultures, such as among the ancient Mayans and Babylonians, the symbol in the Bakhshali manuscript is particularly significant for two reasons.

Firstly, it is this dot that evolved to have a hollow center. Secondly, it was only in India that this zero developed into a number in its own right, hence creating the concept and the number zero that we understand today  this happened in 628 CE when the Indian astronomer and mathematician Brahmagupta wrote a text called Brahmasphutasiddhanta, which is the first document to discuss zero as a number.

Today we take it for granted that the concept of zero is used across the globe and is a key building block of the digital world, Professor du Sautoy said.

But the creation of zero as a number in its own right was one of the greatest breakthroughs in the history of mathematics.

We now know that it was as early as the 3rd century that mathematicians in India planted the seed of the idea that would later become so fundamental to the modern world. The findings show how vibrant mathematics has been in the Indian sub-continent for centuries.

Determining the date of the Bakhshali manuscript is of vital importance to the history of mathematics and the study of early South Asian culture and these surprising research results testify to the subcontinents rich and longstanding scientific tradition, said Richard Ovenden, Bodleys Librarian.
Two bird species that look the same, but have songs so different they cant recognize each other, should be considered distinct species, according to a study by University of British Columbia postdoctoral researcher Benjamin Freeman and Cornell University researcher Graham Montgomery. Among the 72 related populations of Neotropical passerine birds the authors tested, they found evidence for 21 new species.

Songs are important for birds and who they choose to mate with, Dr. Freeman said.

Birds evolve different songs and we wanted to find out which populations are so different in song that they should be considered different species.

The researchers compared two methods (analysis in the lab and experiments in the field) for 72 pairs of related but geographically separated bird populations in Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador.

In addition to analyzing more than a thousand song recordings for seven variables, they used playback experiments to test birds real-world reactions to recordings of their relatives, observing whether or not they approached the speaker.

In the tropical forests of Central and South America where the vegetation is dense, birds rely heavily on song to claim their territory and let other birds know where they are, the authors explained.

In the field experiments, we conducted playback experiments by hanging wireless speakers in the trees and broadcasting songs from related subspecies and then observing how the birds responded.

If the birds continued on with their natural behavior and ignored the speaker and sound, it indicated that they distinguished the songs. They did not feel like another bird was encroaching on their territory and trying to mate with their partner. If the bird got angry and started to try and kick the intruder out, it indicated they recognized the song.

Published in the Auk: Ornithological Advances, the results show that when the divergence between the characteristics of the recordings is high, birds consistently fail to recognize recordings of their relatives in the field, but when divergence is low, birds discrimination is much less consistent.

In other words, analyzing recordings cant accurately predict how birds will act when presented with songs just slightly different from their own.

Many pairs that failed to recognize each other are currently categorized as members of the same species, suggesting that current taxonomy does not reflect actual bird behavior when it comes to song.

The authors propose that 21 such pairs should be recognized as separate species based on song discrimination and that playback experiments should be the standard for assessing whether song divergence between populations is a barrier to interbreeding.

Its interesting that with one study in one year, we came up with good evidence that there are 21 new species that authorities should recognize. We know so much about birds but this demonstrates that we still have a lot to learn, Dr. Freeman said.

Playback experiments between geographically isolated taxa provide key data on how populations might perceive each other in terms of same or different if they were in actual contact, said Louisiana State University researcher Dr. James Vanderbeek Van Remsen, Jr., an expert on Neotropical birds who was not involved in the study.

Hopefully, this pioneering study will catalyze a wave of similar studies around the globe as a way to approach the always-thorny problem of species limits in these birds.

_____

Benjamin G. Freeman & Graham A. Montgomery. 2017. Using song playback experiments to measure species recognition between geographically isolated populations: A comparison with acoustic trait analyses. The Auk 134 (4): 857-870; doi: 10.1642/AUK-17-63.1
Temnospondyls  a diverse group of extinct small-to-giant amphibians that flourished worldwide during the Carboniferous, Permian, and Triassic periods  had a full array of teeth, large fangs and thousands of tiny hook-like structures called denticles on the roofs of their mouths, according to new research published in the journal PeerJ.

Denticles are significantly smaller than the teeth around the margin of the mouth  on the order of dozens to a couple hundred microns in length, said University of Toronto Mississauga Professor Robert Reisz, senior author of the study.

They have all of the features of the large teeth that are found on the margin of the mouth.

In many vertebrates, ranging from fish to early synapsids (ancestors of mammals), denticles are commonly found in dense concentrations on the bones of the hard palate (roof of the mouth).

However, in temnospondyls  which are thought to be the ancestors of modern amphibians  these denticles were also found on small, bony plates that filled the large soft part of the palate. The entire roof of the mouth was covered with literally thousands of these tiny teeth that they used to grab prey.

In examining temnospondyl specimens dating back approximately 289 million years (Permian period), we discovered that the denticles display essentially all of the main features that are considered to define teeth, including enamel and dentine, pulp cavity and peridontia, Professor Reisz said.

He and his colleagues  Bryan Gee and Yara Haridy, graduate students at the University of Toronto Mississauga  analyzed specimens unearthed from the Dolese Brothers Limestone Quarry near Richards Spur, Oklahoma.

They extracted and isolated the denticle-bearing plates, created thin section slides and examined them under the microscope.

The presence of such an extensive field of teeth provides clues to how the intriguing feeding mechanism seen in modern amphibians was also likely used by their ancient ancestors, the paleontologists said.

We believe that the tooth-bearing plates were ideally suited for holding on to prey, such as insects or smaller tetrapods, may have facilitated a method of swallowing prey items via retraction of the eyeballs into the mouth, as some amphibians do today.

The next big question relates to evolutionary changes to the overall abundance of teeth: if these ancient amphibians had an astonishing number of teeth, why have most modern amphibians reduced or entirely lost their teeth?

_____

B.M. Gee et al. 2017. Histological characterization of denticulate palatal plates in an Early Permian dissorophoid. PeerJ 5: e3727; doi: 10.7717/peerj.3727
Browsing the wine aisle at a supermarket or convenience store can be disorienting for someone used to shopping at a fine wine retailer. Mass-market labels such as Barefoot, Yellow Tail and Cupcake are everywhere, rather than the smaller family-owned wineries more common to wine stores.

But what do they taste like? My recent notes on some of the nation's best-selling chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons include a few positive words such as peaches, blackberries and minerals, but many more terms like machine oil, inner tubes and sewer gas. In short, if you buy wine based solely on price and wide availability, you might find a gem or perhaps something pleasant, but there's a better chance you'll be wasting your money, not saving it.

And these are the wines most Americans drink. According to Wines & Vines magazine's annual list of the 20 top-selling wine brands in U.S. retail stores, based on figures from market research firm IRI, Americans spent $670 million last year on Barefoot wines. Sutter Home was a distant second at $368 million. The list includes other familiar names such as Kendall-Jackson, Chateau Ste. Michelle and Beringer. Australia's Yellow Tail was the only foreign brand to crack the top echelon in sales, though some American brands use imported wine.

Three box wines made the list: Franzia, Black Box Wines and Bota Box. Most sell for the equivalent of less than $10 a bottle. Altogether, the top 20 brands racked up $4.14 billion in sales in 2016.

Those 20 brands are owned by only 10 companies. That shows the predominance of such behemoths as E&J Gallo Winery (owner of Barefoot, Apothic, Gallo Family Vineyards, Carlo Rossi and Liberty Creek), Constellation Brands (Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, Black Box Wines, Clos du Bois and Robert Mondavi Private Selection) and the Wine Group (Franzia, Cupcake Vineyards). The romantic vision of the artisan vigneron toiling among the vines does not apply to our daily tipple.

To get a taste of these, I headed to Costco and two liquor stores and purchased as many chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons from the top 20 brands as I could find. I also bought some other cheap brands I've enjoyed over the years, as well as Costco's Kirkland.

Finally, I included two sweet red blends, Gallo's Apothic and Yellow Tail's Sweet Red Roo. Apothic's presence on the top-20 list demonstrates the popularity of this category. All but a few of the wines cost less than $10 a bottle.

Just for fun, I added a few more expensive wines, then put the bottles into bags to hide the labels, a "blind tasting" designed to prevent any preconceptions from influencing my perception. I was joined for the chardonnay tasting by Mike Tate of Silver Spring, Maryland, an avid consumer who is not in the wine trade, and my wife, Leah, who has a much sharper palate than I do when she's paying attention. Tate also volunteered to help with the cabernets, along with Elyse Kudo, the regional representative for Jackson Family Wines.

The 10 chardonnays fared better than the 19 cabernets and blends. In fact, you can buy delicious U.S. chardonnay for less than $10. Just look for the name Robert Mondavi on the label. When we ripped the bags off the bottles, we found the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi to be our favorite, with the Robert Mondavi Private Selection in second place. The Woodbridge - which costs just $7.59 - was fresh, fruity and so well balanced that we all suspected it was one of the more-expensive ringers I had put in the lineup. The Private Selection was also quite nice, with more oak flavoring and richness from malolactic fermentation.

The Woodbridge should be easy to find: Constellation Brands made 1.1 million cases of it in 2016. Perhaps one reason it stood out from the crowd is that it is only about 77 percent chardonnay; the rest is a blend of various grapes, including French colombard, Viognier and muscat. This "secret sauce" is not mentioned on the label, but is listed on a tech sheet Constellation sent me. And it's perfectly legit: A wine can be labeled as chardonnay as long as at least 75 percent of the blend is that grape.

Most of the other chardonnays were pleasant enough but overtly sugary, appealing to the famous American sweet tooth. (Sweetness can come from incomplete fermentation, blending with sweeter grapes or simply the addition of sugar.) Some were noticeably flawed. The Cupcake smelled like a wet dog, suggesting sloppy hygiene in the winemaking, and Sutter Home - the second-most-favorite brand in America - was simply awful.

The red wines as a group disappointed. Of the 19 we tasted, we found only three to be noteworthy, and all were ones I had selected, not on the best-selling list. They were the Santa Rita 120, Cousino-Macul and Los Vascos, all from Chile. So here's your cabernet takeaway: Look for Chilean cabs in the $10 range - cheap, but not bottom barrel. Two other Chilean brands, Walnut Crest and Frontera, cashed in at about $5 but did not show well.

The U.S. brands were almost uniformly depressing. Some were pleasant enough, but sweet and dull. Even overtly sweet red wines, such as Apothic, did not stand out as sweet among the treacle that is cheap Cali cab. Others tasted of cough syrup, rubber, machine oil or worse. The boxed wines failed to impress. It was as though the companies - I hate to say "winemakers" - were following a recipe of fake tannins, grape concentrate and artificial oak flavorings to appeal to the American palate. I would be happy with a simple wine for less than $10 as long as it's delicious, but whether for reasons of economics or market research, that does not seem to be possible for domestic wines.

Our least favorite red was the 14 Hands from Washington state, a popular brand that tasted simply like a junkyard in a bottle.

We all want to be conscious of value when shopping for wine. But with the exception of a few pleasant surprises, the quality simply isn't there under $10, especially when it comes to domestic wine. To get your money's worth, look for the $15-to-$25 range for quality that justifies the price. You are most likely to find this in imported wines.

You get what you pay for.
The Paya Lebar freehold property in Singapore, currently Nam Cheongs principal place of business, will be sold to a third party for SGD4.5m ($3.4m). All proceeds from the sale will be applied towards settlement of outstanding amount under a credit facility granted by DBS Bank and secured by the property.

This is the second property disposal by Nam Cheong, as the OSV builder earlier this month sold three Singapore office units that were also on mortgage to DBS Bank.

For the Paya Lebar property, Nam Cheong said it intends to negotiate for a lease back of the property from the purchase to allow the company to continue using the Paya Lebar property as a corporate office to minimise any disruption to the business of the company.

Nam Cheong maintained that the Payar Lebar property is a non-operational and non-core asset of the group, and that the disposal will not impact the existing core operations of shipbuilding and chartering businesses.

The embattled company had held a noteholders meeting on 7 September, urging for their support to vote for a scheme of arrangement restructuring rather than a vote down that would lead to a liquidation scenario.
The Dubai-headquartered terminal operator said it had reached the decision not to renew operating contract for PT Terminal Petikemas Surabaya (TPS) when its current agreement expires in 2019.

DP World said that the new contract offered by the Indonesian authorities did not meet its requirements for continued investment. The terminal is in Tanjung Perak the worlds 47th largest container port.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, DP World group chairman and ceo, noted the contributions of DP World and other terminal operators in building up Indonesias infrastructure.

It is unfortunate that the significant positive contributions made by global terminal operators in Indonesia have not been fully recognised, despite our successful track record. We are therefore disappointed that the operating contract renewal terms offered by the Indonesian authorities did not meet our threshold for continued investment, he said.

Adhering to strict financial discipline has been crucial to the growth of DP World and on that basis we are not able to renew the agreement beyond 2019. The transfer of operations will be in accordance to the terms and conditions of the contract.

DP World has a 49% stake in TPS which has a capacity of 2.1m teu.

The terminal operator said the decision would have no material impact on its business.

The move comes just months after DP World signed a Technical Assistance Contract signed with the Indonesian government and state-owned port operator Pelindo I. Indonesia has long been seen as presenting great opportunities for international terminal operators, however, bureaucratic issues have proved problematic for investors.

DP World has a 20-year contract for TPS in Surabaya which was originally signed by P&O Ports prior to its acquisition by the Dubai-based terminal operator.
Straits said in a stock market announcement that the deal, through its 51%-owned unit Selatan Bunker, is for a six-month contract to provide bunkering services worth MYR45m ($10.7m) to Tumpuan Megah Development.

We intend to finance the contract with proceeds from the Rights Issue completed on August 16, 2017 and also from our internal sources of funds, it said.

Straits md Ho Kam Choy said the company is pleased to be awarded the very first oil bunkering service contract, after announcing its business venture into this sector end of last year.

This contract is expected to contribute positively to the companys earnings for the financial period ending 31 December 2017.

We expect this business to eventually become the core business of Straits and to replace the oil trading business that is currently contributing some 90% to our group revenue, he added.
Press Release

September 18, 2017 Resist 'politics of fear', De Lima tells ASEAN parliamentarians Senator Leila M. de Lima today called on her fellow parliamentarians in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to come together to fight for democracy and find solutions to the spread of fake news in their own jurisdictions. In a message read by former Rep.Walden Bello during a roundtable discussion on the state of democracy in Southeast Asia hosted by ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR), De Lima said fear is the "most insidious and imminent threat" to democracy "Fear of reprisals from an oppressive government, led by a vindictive President, who believes he has the power of life and death over his people. Fear that paralyzes people, including government officials, from doing what is right. Fear that makes them think twice, thrice, several times over before they dare stand up for what is right - until it's too late," she said. "Fear that is slowly, but surely, co-opting or neutralizing our independent institutions. Fear that is converting our democratic government into an oppressive, authoritarian rule, backed by a mob of greedy and blood-thirsty gangsters parading as public officials and police officers," she added. De Lima's full speech entitled "Threats to Philippine Democracy: The Tyranny of Fear and Lies," was delivered to the ASEAN parliamentarians on Monday in Makati. To highlight how fear threatens democracy, De Lima cited the government's effort to silence the people or group who dare oppose the administration's policies, especially on killings as crime prevention. De Lima mentioned the recent threat to expel opposition Senator Antonio Trillanes IV from the Senate and the plotting of cases to be filed against another minority Senator, Risa Hontiveros. She also cited the impeachment complaints against Chief Justice Lourdes Sereno and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, as well as threats to file charges against Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio "Ambo" David who has been vocal against summary killings. The Senator then noted the decision by the House of Representatives to effectively abolish the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) by voting to give it a budget of P1,000 for 2018. Aside from "fear," De Lima said the other threat to democracy is "fake" news. Citing as an example the Duterte regime's "fake war" on drugs with "fake agenda," she said: "It is misleading to call it a 'war' if it's an act of violent aggression against your own people, especially those who cannot fight even to defend themselves." "And it is for a fake agenda if we go by the fact that only the poor and the defenseless are being targeted, while big-time drug lords and smugglers go unscathed, still brazenly dealing in large shipments of illegal drugs from China," she added. When Duterte assumed presidency in July last year, he promised to eradicate crimes by killing criminals. To date, more than 13,000 people have been killed either by vigilante-style executions or "legitimized" police operations. De Lima, a staunch critic of the administration's war on drugs, said it is unfortunate that the face of the present government in the country is founded on "propaganda" such as "fake information, fake statistics, and fake news." The Senator from Bicol also pointed out how the police force, government officials and even civilians have been turned into a "bloodthirsty mob" due to fake information and false narratives. "There are officials who are quoted as saying that such misinformation hurts no one. Not hurting anyone, indeed, except those who are being killed based on possibly false information, false data, and false narrative! That is what is undermining our democracy at the moment," she said. While several public officials have turned themselves into Duterte's lapdogs, De Lima maintained there are a few institutions and people she still have faith in: the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the lawmakers in the House of Representatives who voted "No" to the P1,000 CHR budget, her "brave" colleagues in the Senate and her countrymen who continue to fight for justice and liberty. Touted as a "Prisoner of Conscience," De Lima is detained on trumped-up drug charges fabricated by the administration. Yet despite efforts by the administration to taint her reputations, several international organizations including APHR have vouched for her innocence as they called for her immediate release from detention.
JV EJERCITO CONDEMNS BRUTAL HAZING OF UST LAW STUDENT

I strongly condemn the fraternity-related violence that cost the life of Horacio Tomas Castillo III, a freshman law student of the University of Santo Tomas, after undergoing hazing yesterday.

I am saddened by this senseless death of a youth in the hands of his so-called 'brothers'. Fraternities, particularly those recognized by universities, should always be reminded to be adherent to the Anti-Hazing Law since brotherhood is the foundation of their association.

We will not allow fraternities promoting mafia-like practices and rituals to resurface again. Thus, I call on the police to investigate this thoroughly, hunt and arrest the killers at the quickest possible time.
Press Release

September 18, 2017 UST Must Seek Justice for Alleged Hazing Victim - Gatchalian Senator Win Gatchalian on Monday called on the leadership of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) to take the lead in seeking justice for Horacio Tomas "Atyo" Castillo III, a 22-year-old freshman law student who was allegedly killed during the initiation rites of a university-recognized fraternity. Castillo was found dead along a street in Manila on Sunday, a day after he told his parents he would be attending the overnight "welcoming rites" of the Aegis Juris Fraternity - a law-based fraternity duly accredited by the university. His body was found covered in bruises and candle wax drip marks. Although he saw the facts surrounding Castillo's death as quite similar to hazing deaths reported in recent years, Gatchalian noted one key difference: Unlike most incidents, the fraternity linked to Castillo's death is a duly accredited student organization of the educational institution it calls home. "The fact that the fraternity being implicated in this hazing death is recognized by the university itself as a legitimate student organization means that UST cannot pull the same tricks used by other schools in the past to evade responsibility for the criminal actions of their students. UST has an even greater obligation than ever to uncover the truth of this incident and hold Atyo's killers accountable for their sick crimes," he said. In light of this tragedy, the senator also renewed his call for the passage of revamped legislation to replace the 22-year old Republic Act No. 8049, otherwise known as the Anti-Hazing Law of 1995. Gatchalian's proposed replacement measure, Senate Bill No. 199, would repeal RA 8049 to institute a more comprehensive anti-hazing regime by providing a more prohibitive definition of hazing, expanding the scope of liabilities and increasing the penalties for hazing offenders, and mandating educational institutions to play a central role in hazing prevention and awareness. This bill, originally filed by then-congressman Gatchalian as House Bill No. 5760 during the 16th Congress, was approved by the House on third and final reading but failed to gain Senate approval before the end of the term. "The Anti-Hazing Law must be overhauled to eliminate loop holes and ensure that all persons responsible for these cruel and senseless hazing deaths will be held accountable to the full extent of the law. It's time for the Senate to take up this proposed legislation," Gatchalian said.
Press Release

September 18, 2017 Senate Approves Fiscal-Monetary Report Act of 2017 The Senate on Monday unanimously approved on third and final reading a measure which promotes greater transparency and public accountability in the formulation and implementation of the executive department's economic policies. Senate Bill No. 1483, otherwise known as the Fiscal and Monetary Report Act of 2017, requires the Secretaries of the Department of Finance (DOF), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the Department of Budget Management (DBM), as well as the Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), to appear before a joint congressional oversight committee twice a year to report on the current fiscal status of the government. "This legislation will ensure transparency in the government's monetary and fiscal policy direction by mandating public disclosure of information to lawmakers. Under this measure, Congress will be regularly updated on the real economic status of the government," said Gatchalian, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs and principal sponsor of the measure. Under SBN 1483, monetary and fiscal managers shall report before the newly-created Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Fiscal and Monetary Policies, which will be chaired by the chairman of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs, with the chairpersons of the Senate Committees on Finance, Ways and Means, and Banks, Financial Institutions and Currencies serving as members. The Senate minority bloc shall appoint an additional member to represent the group in the oversight committee. The contingent of the House of Representatives, on the other hand, will be led by the chairperson of the Committee on Economic Affairs, with the chairpersons of the House Committees on Appropriation, Ways and Means, Economic Affairs, and Banks and Financial Intermediaries, as well as a representative chosen by the House minority bloc, serving as members. The proposed legislation requires the DOF to lead discussions on the government's fiscal policy and submit a written report on the Consolidated Public Sector Financial Position; National Government Debt Service Expenditures; Foreign and Domestic Borrowings; National Government Revenues; and National Government Financing Program and Outstanding Debt. The NEDA, on the other, shall submit a written report on economic developments and prospects in the labor market, macro-economy, gross national income, gross domestic product and its components, unemployment, youth unemployment and underemployment. Meanwhile, the DBM shall also submit a written report on the status of the National Budget, Status of Expenditure Program; Status of Disbursement; Statement of Appropriations, Allotments, and Obligations and Balances. On the other hand, the BSP report shall include data on monetary aggregates and their components; purchases and sales of foreign exchange and of international reserves; balance of payments; indices of consumer prices and of import and export prices; exports and imports volume and value; and financial status of the BSP and the banking industry. Gatchalian stressed the biannual reporting will enhance public accountability and strengthen fiscal responsibility, consistent with the country's commitment to good governance under the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022. Gatchalian explained the proposed measure provides lawmakers the forum to meticulously review government's spending habits and planning strategies, compared to the present system where congressional oversight of fiscal management is limited to budget analysis during the annual budget season. "Congress needs to be informed about how government manages and disburses public funds. We need to be updated on the execution of the executive's fiscal and monetary policies and the real fiscal condition of the economy, so we may timely come up with legislative solutions when they meet stumbling blocks," Gatchalian added. Senate Bill No. 1483 is the product of public hearings held by the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs on Senate Bill No. 837, a measure authored by Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto.
Press Release

September 18, 2017 Keynote Speech of Senator Loren Legarda, MNSA

Opening Ceremony of the 21st ASEAN Regional Forum Heads of Defense Universities/Colleges/Institutions Meeting

"Defense Diplomacy Through Education and Research:

Building Confidence, Enhancing Engagement"

18 September 2017 | Sofitel Philippine Plaza The Chair of the 21st ASEAN Regional Forum for Heads of Defense Universities/Colleges/Institutions Meeting (ARF-HDUCIM) and President of the National Defense College of the Philippines, Rear Admiral Roberto Q. Estioko, The Co-Chair of the 21st ARF HDUCIM and the President of the National Institute For Defense Studies, Japan, Mr. Tatsuo Yamamoto, The ARF Heads of Defense Universities/Colleges/ Institutions and members of their delegations, Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, A pleasant morning to all of you. As an alumna of the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), I am deeply honored to address this 21st ASEAN Regional Forum of Heads of Defense Universities, Colleges and Institutions. Even if I am in the midst of hearings for the 2018 national budget as the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, it is essential to be here with all of you who have converged in Manila to share knowledge and best practices and to fortify cooperation in defense and security education. The 21st ARF HDUCIM is held at a time when Southeast Asia, and the broader Asia-Pacific region, celebrates a historical milestone. This year marks the golden jubilee of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). For fifty years, ASEAN has served as a catalyst of peace, stability, growth, and prosperity in the region. The Bangkok Declaration of 1967, which founded ASEAN, underscored that in "an increasingly interdependent world, the cherished ideals of peace, freedom, social justice and economic well-being are best attained by fostering good understanding, good neighbourliness and meaningful cooperation among the countries of the region." ASEAN, as its founders envisioned it, is doing just that. Anchored on the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars, ASEAN is building a community in which nations live in harmony, security, and development. Beyond the immediate Southeast Asian region, ASEAN is at the forefront in shaping the multilateral architecture of greater Asia Pacific. Guided by the principle of open regionalism, ASEAN's goal is to promote an inclusive political, economic, and security environment, where every country, regardless of size, wealth, or status, plays a key role in reaching the region's full potential. The ASEAN regional forum founded in 1994 is a testament to this diplomatic resolve. Indeed, chairing ASEAN on this auspicious occasion is truly a distinct honor and privilege for the Philippines. Inspired by the organization's success in fostering a platform for dialogue and cooperation, the Philippines has chosen the theme "Partnering for Change, Engaging the World." Fleshing out this theme and to contribute in addressing regional concerns on a whole range of issues, I have to revisit my enriching journey as a Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) student at NDCP. At that time a media practitioner, I was encouraged by then President Fidel V. Ramos to study so I would have a broader and strategic perspective of emerging local and global issues. After going through the rigors of the course and learning straight from the experts/security practitioners, I could say with pride that my depth of perception on issues prepared me best for the crafting policy in the Senate, especially in environmental, climate and planetary security, among others, which I have been championing through the years. Thus, I support with the same resolve the six thematic priorities which the Philippines identified as guide for the various initiatives that has been and will be pursued under our chairmanship. First, a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN, which focuses on the social well being of our people. Second, peace and stability in the region, which underscores the need to resolve conflicts and disputes using peaceful means, as well as the need to combat common security challenges. Third, maritime security and cooperation, which emphasizes the need to resolve maritime disputes through dialogue and the rule of law. Fourth, inclusive, innovation-led growth, which emphasizes the advancement of trade and commerce, in particular micro, small and medium enterprises. Fifth, a resilient ASEAN, the promotion of which is vital in view of the climate crisis. Sixth, ASEAN as a model of regionalism, a global player. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentleman, The ARF HDUCIM has an important role to play in this regard. Established in 1997, the ARF HDUCIM is a track 1 platform that brings together the head of defense universities, colleges, and institutions of a diverse grouping of twenty-seven countries, including the European Union. This year's theme, "Defense Diplomacy Through Education And Research: Building Confidence, Enhancing Engagement," is indeed very timely. As components of defense diplomacy, education and research contribute in the overall objective of peace and stability in the region in three important ways. First, education and research fosters greater understanding among defense and security leaders of countries. Indeed, the strategic outlook of defense officials is significantly honed in educational and research institutions. Thus, interactions among these institutions help bridge understanding of issues and establish friendly ties. Manila aims to establish a Philippine Center of Excellence in Development and Security in this regard. Second, education and research serve as means of engaging counterparts in the region. Defense and security officials, who are given the opportunity to study abroad, not only gain new knowledge, but also serve as a channel for engaging foreign counterparts in order to broaden perspectives. Third, education and research are powerful conduits in building confidence. The goodwill forged in cooperating on education and research can eventually spill over on other possible areas of cooperation. These three principles clearly highlight the crucial role played by education and research in the broader context of defense diplomacy. That is why our MNSA class #27 of 1993, proudly silver jubilarians next year, took the lead in the establishment of the Philippine Center for Excellence in Defense Development and Security (PCEDS) as our response to the call for more responsive security sector governance. I commit to help in the resource generation to make it operational this year. I am also giving priority to the re-filing of my previous bill on the establishment of the National Defense University (NDU) now more focused and retrofitted to a Philippine Defense University System (PDUS) that will unite the various defense education units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department of National Defense. Fortifying these institutions will likewise expand the platform for international cooperation as a crucial component in addressing the various traditional and non-traditional security concerns, including natural hazards and climate change. The Philippine Senate has been and is supportive of ASEAN's initiatives. Indeed, the Senate has concurred in various ASEAN agreements, including the Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre), and the ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism (ACCT). ASEAN too is that part of the world where women have taken on leadership positions in their countries. It is hoped that the inclusion of more women in the security sector be part of your discussions in this forum. In closing, please allow me to convey my highest commendation to this august body in celebrating its 20th founding anniversary. Your annual conference complements the broader regional efforts in strengthening the regional security architecture through dialogue and cooperation. It is in this spirit that I wish the delegates of the 21st ARF HDUCIM all the success. Thank you very much and welcome to the Philippines!
Press Release

September 18, 2017 POE WANTS SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAM EXPANDED Sen. Grace Poe is drumming up support for the expansion of the school-based feeding program (SBFP) to cover more beneficiaries and address malnutrition which is still plaguing Filipino schoolchildren. During the Senate hearing of the Department of Education's proposed P612.11-billion budget for 2018, Poe said the government could expand the program--which currently covers "wasted" and "severely wasted" students or those suffering from chronic malnutrition--to include undernourished children since the SBFP has positive effects on students' academic performance. "Balewala naman ang magagandang mga programa natin o magagandang classrooms natin kung yung mga bata ay hindi naman makapag-isip dahil nagugutom," said Poe, co-sponsor of Senate Bill No. 1279 or An Act Creating a National School Feeding Program to Combat Hunger and Undernutrition for all Basic Education Students. Poe said that while plenary debates are still ongoing on the proposed law to institutionalize the program currently being implemented by the DepEd and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), she will fully support any initiative for budget augmentation of the program. Education Sec. Leonor Magtolis-Briones told senators that more than 90% of target-beneficiaries have been covered by the SBFP in recent years. Briones said "mas madaling mag-feed ng bata kesa mag-construct ng classroom," in reference to the supposed underspending of the department and slow pace of school building and classroom construction due to apparent bureaucratic processes. "Kapag may pagkain ang mga bata sa public schools, mas ma-eengganyo silang pumasok. Nakita natin sa mga paaralan kung saan mayroong pagkain ang mga bata, mas matataas ang mga scores...Kung mas mabilis ang utilization para sa pagpapakain ng mga bata, hindi masasayang iyan kasi diretso sa tiyan," Poe said, citing various studies on the positive impacts of feeding program. The DepEd, which allocated P5.3 billion next year for the feeding program, targets to implement the SBFP for 2.5 million students for next year. This year, the agency had allotted some P3.9 billion for 1.8 million students. The SBFP targets wasted and severely wasted Kinder to Grade 6 pupils nationwide for a total of 120 feeding days. The DSWD, for its part, allotted P3.43 billion for the supplemental feeding program, which will cover children ages 3-5 years in poor communities. According to Poe, massive government investment is needed for nutrition-focused program as one-third of the student population in public schools nationwide are undernourished, while another study indicates that there is high incidence of stunting, which means that a child is too short for his or her age due to lack of nutrition, among Filipino students.
Press Release

September 18, 2017 No need for CHR funds to buy bodycams--Recto There are enough sources in the 2017 national budget which could fund the immediate purchase of police body cameras, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said. "If the need is urgent, why wait for the enactment of the 2018 budget? There is also no need to rechannel the proposed budget of other agencies in buying body cams when current appropriations are available," Recto said. Recto said the Philippine National Police still has P3.73 billion left in the P5.36 billion earmarked for police modernization projects under the Unprogrammed Appropriations of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for 2017. Malacanang, he added, can also tap the P5.5 billion Contingent Fund, which is the traditional presidential source of funding for unforeseen expenses. "If the purchase of body cams is a national priority but there is no appropriations cover for it, then the Contingent Fund can bankroll it," Recto explained. But Recto said there will be no need to dip into the Contingent Fund due to the large balance of PNP's share from the Unprogrammed Appropriations in this year's national budget. Under the GAA for 2017, release of unprogrammed funds can only be triggered if revenue collections have been topped or if supported by new loans. "Siguro na-breach nga ang revenue target, o mayroong bagong sources, kasi na -trigger ang release," Recto said. "If that is the case, then the PNP can still draw funds from this source." Recto again debunked PNP claims that it has no budget to buy body- and car-mounted cameras this year, saying that the PNP had in fact received P1.9 billion from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) last August 10 for the purchase of various equipment. The Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) issued by the DBM for the procurement of P1.9 billion worth of machine guns, boats, motorcycles, anti-riot gear, body vests and "explosive detection dogs" identified the funding source as the Unprogrammed Appropriations of the GAA for 2017. "Hindi na kailangang maghintay sa susunod na taon. Mayroon pang balanse 'yung pondo na pwede gamitin," Recto said. In the SARO for P1,901,472,364 that it released to the PNP, the DBM authorized the procurement of 12 lots of equipment. These are: 103 light transport vehicles (P132 million); 126 personnel carriers (P245.2 million); 323 motorcyles (P31 million); 138 rubber boats (P343.4 million); 320 5.56mm light machine guns (P200 million); and 231 7.62 mm light machine guns (P252.4 million). Also funded by the SARO are 2,248 waistcoat vests (P152.9 million); 11,245 undershirt "level 3-A" vests (P382.3 million); 160 sets of base radio (P88.5 million); 2 forklifts (P1.85 million); 1 lot of "civil disturbance management" equipment (P47.3 million). The SARO also allotted P24.56 million for 48 "explosive detection dogs," with a unit price of P511,672. "Yang P24 million na 'yan, baka mas mabuting huwag na munang ibili ng aso. Ibili na lang muna ng camera. Kung P10,000 ang presyo ng isang body cam, sapat na upang bigyan ng tig-isa ang 24,000 police officers," he said.
San Francisco may soon have an opportunity to transform up to 10 gritty, weed-choked plots of land beneath elevated freeways into public parks and recreation spaces, thanks to a state bill now awaiting Gov. Jerry Browns signature.

The parcels are among 75 in the city owned by Caltrans, which makes about $9.2 million each year by leasing them out, mostly to private companies that use them as makeshift parking lots or as storage space.

Once those leases expire, the bill directs Caltrans to give San Francisco the first opportunity to rent each plot at a 70 percent discount to develop into public spaces.

I think this is a creative way to utilize this mostly vacant land underneath freeways and make them available for San Franciscans to play and recreate, said San Francisco Assemblyman Phil Ting. We have such little space for kids and families to go to. Every space not utilized is a waste. Ting worked with Mayor Ed Lees office in crafting the legislation.

The city would have to foot the bill for building and maintaining the new parks, and the cost of renting the parcels themselves would be about $1 million per year, city officials said. That may turn out to be a bargain for both San Francisco and for Caltrans, considering the amount of money spent on cleaning and maintaining the debris-strewn lots, many of which, in their current state, have become magnets for homeless camps and crime.

Last year, Caltrans spent $7.5 million to clear encampments beneath highways statewide last year, according to data from the transportation department. There were around 2,800 encampments beneath or adjacent to freeways cleared in San Francisco last year, and roughly 2,000 crimes were reported.

City officials say converting the lots into public parks and open spaces will also be a critical component of San Franciscos efforts to meet the requirements laid out by SB375, a sweeping 2008 bill that compelled California cities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through strategic civic planning.

The city has vowed to create more green, open spaces to complement housing construction near transit hubs as part of its effort to comply with SB375. Todd Rufo, director of the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development, said unlocking parcels beneath freeways is crucial, as officials work to build more parks and affordable housing in a city that is rapidly running out of room.

If we didnt get this, our choices would be to acquire some buildings, knock them down and then build the parks there, Rufo said. Thats space that could have been more affordable housing, or something else. We thought there was a better way to do it.

Capping the number of lots the city can lease at 10 was meant to lessen the financial cost to Caltrans and the state, which could be otherwise renting the plots to the private sector at a higher price, city officials said.

The length of the leases will have to be negotiated by the city and Caltrans. Negotiations wont begin until after Jan. 2018, when existing leases on the first few parcels expire, Caltrans spokesman Mark Dinger said in an email. All of the lots are currently being leased.

The city already has had some success transforming underused parcels beneath freeways into public spaces, including a skate park and dog-walk area South of Market and a volleyball court in Mission Bay.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Those are just the types of recreational areas that Julie Christensen would like to see more of. Christensen, a former city supervisor, now serves as executive director of the Dogpatch and Northwest Potrero Hill Green Benefit District. She said shes been lobbying the city to create more community recreational spaces in that neighborhood as a way to reunite an area cleaved by Interstate 280 and Highway 101 thats starving for space.

The negative impact of underutilizing that land is so great, Christensen said. Not only would we be adding good things, wed be mitigating some pretty miserable conditions. As they are now, the lots in the neighborhood have had enormous problems with camping and fires and dumping, she said.

San Francisco officials have already identified at least eight possible parcels for redevelopment, should AB857 get signed into law, including lots in the Dogpatch; beneath whats known as the Hairball, where Highway 101 meets Cesar Chavez Street in the Mission District; and underneath the tangled Alemany Maze, where 101 and I-280 converge.

Were looking everywhere for more ways to green the city and create places for the public. This is a resource we shouldnt overlook, Christensen said. It could be more transformative than people realize.

Dominic Fracassa is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dfracassa@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @dominicfracassa
At UC Berkeley, 177 professors and graduate students have signed an open letter urging thousands of colleagues and classmates to boycott campus for four days this month to ensure their physical and mental safety.

The strongly worded letter, titled Boycott the Alt-Right @UCBerkeley, asks that students, instructors and employees cancel classes, close buildings and not penalize students who are afraid to come to campus from Sept. 24 to 27.

TRENDING: Millions of Californians on the hook for $16 billion water plan

Thats when Milo Yiannopoulos has said he, Steve Bannon, Ann Coulter and other couriers of the far-right agenda are supposed to descend onto campus for four days of rallies and speeches theyre calling Free Speech Week.

ALSO: Student group must pay needed fees for 'Free Speech Week,' UC officials say

But as of Sunday, the event remained in doubt after university officials said organizers failed to pay the required fees and rent for the facilities when they turned in a contract for the event late Friday, after missing two earlier deadlines.

The boycott letter, nonetheless, warns that the city of Berkeley will be the site of explicitly violent alt-right, militia and pro-Fascist events prompted by the expected arrival of the odious trifecta, as one student described the three.

Campus administrators say Free Speech Week is no sure thing, because the students who invited the speakers havent made the security arrangements needed to reserve rooms for them to speak in. Even so, administrators expect to meet or exceed the extraordinary measures they took Thursday when a far less provocative conservative, Ben Shapiro, spoke at UC Berkeleys Zellerbach Hall. At an estimated cost of $600,000, the extensive police presence kept hundreds of protesters at bay.

In February, a far smaller police presence failed to protect the campus from masked rioters who smashed windows, set equipment on fire and stopped a scheduled speech by Yiannopoulos.

Now he says hes coming back with cohorts. And many faculty and students want nothing to do with it.

As faculty we cannot ask students and staff to choose between risking their physical and mental safety in order to attend class or come to work in an environment of harassment, intimidation, violence, and militarized policing, says the letter, adding that some students and employees are particularly at risk: non-white, gender queer, Muslims, disabled, feminists and others routinely singled out by the right.

Yiannopoulos is a right-wing showman who delights in mocking such groups. Bannon is an ex-adviser to President Trump who edits the right-wing opinion site Breitbart News. And Coulter, an author, has said that illegal aliens have killed, raped and maimed thousands of Americans.

The letter also cites the left-right violence that has escalated around the country since Trump became president, including the death of a peaceful protester in Charlottesville, Va., and stabbing deaths in Portland, Ore., and Maryland. Since the inauguration, the East Bay has also seen five violent clashes that have cost taxpayers at least $1.5 million.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Theres no way UC Berkeley can provide safety and security for four days. This is some sort of fantasy, said Deborah Blocker, an associate professor of French who signed the letter and intends to teach her two small classes off campus.

But beyond personal safety, Blocker said, we will do it massively  as a symbol. If they (the right-wing) are going to be handed the keys to this campus ... then academics will go elsewhere.

Peter Glazer, an associate professor of theater, dance and performance studies who also signed, said the value of boycotting campus is also to deny the invited speakers the audience, the trouble, and the kind of press they crave.

UC Berkeley spokesman Dan Mogulof said faculty members are free to decide where and when they teach their classes.

Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NanetteAsimov
Bay Area voters next year will be asked to raise tolls by as much as $3 on all bay bridges, except for the Golden Gate, under a measure the state Legislature just approved.

And more hikes could follow, with no cap, based on a cost of living index.

Regional Measure 3 was put together by Bay Area lawmakers with the goal of helping to finance 30 transportation projects throughout the region. It was approved by both the state Senate and Assembly after weeks of behind-the-scenes wrangling over who would get what.

The measure will likely go before voters in the nine Bay Area counties either next June or November, where it will need a simple majority to pass.

Our residents already spend an average of 82 hours stuck in traffic and our transit systems are struggling to keep overcrowded buses and trains moving, state Assemblyman David Chiu, D-San Francisco, said.

The projects include everything from improved bridge approaches and increased ferry service across the bay to bringing BART to Silicon Valley. The wish list even includes money to start building an underground tunnel for Caltrans to come directly into downtown San Francisco.

One of the biggest recipients will be BART, which is on track for just over $1 billion.

Getting the package through the legislature, however took a lot of back-room dealing, including an extra $200 million apiece for both Alameda and Contra Costa counties, where most of the people who would pay the higher tolls, live.

State Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Orinda, would only vote for the deal if it included the creation of an inspector general to monitor BART spending.

Even with the sweeteners, there was opposition from Contra Costa County, with state Assembly members Jim Frazier, D-Brentwood, Tim Grayson, D-Concord, and Catharine Baker, R-San Ramon, all voting no.

Frazier, who chairs the Assembly Transportation Committee, said that while there was a need for transportation improvements, adding another tax on commuters is not the answer. He likened an $8 toll to highway robbery.

Once in place, Baker said the tolls could keep going up without additional voter approval.

And that takes away all accountability on how these dollars are spent, she said.

The measures author, state Sen. Jim Beall, D- San Jose, praised the outcome, saying the measure will give the Bay Area the bold plan it needs for the future and that with the expansion of tech firms, such as Google and Apple traffic will only get worse.

Which may explain why tech companies are big supporters of the measure.

San Francisco Chronicle columnists Phillip Matier and Andrew Ross appear Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays. Matier can be seen on the KPIX TV morning and evening news. He can also be heard on KCBS radio Monday through Friday at 7:50 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Got a tip? Call (415) 777-8815, or email matierandross@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @matierandross
At the Whitney Museum in New York in late August, coming upon a Ruth Asawa sculpture hanging in a window  against a backdrop of the Hudson River  felt like encountering an old friend whose talents are increasing appreciated.

Then Chronicle style reporter Tony Bravo, who was in New York for Fashion Week, emailed that he had gone to the opening of an Asawa exhibition at the David Zwirner Gallery. Among the guests were Harry Parker and his wife, Ellen; it was under Parkers leadership at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco that a collection of Asawa sculptures were hung on the ground floor of the tower at the de Young Museum. She took her role as an advocate for arts education as seriously as her work as an artist, Parker told Bravo. There was no difference to her.

The morning of the opening, Emma Lanier, granddaughter of Asawa, performed a dance piece in the gallery to recordings of the voice of her grandmother and her father, Paul Lanier. It was a conversation with my grandmother, she said, and a conversation between our art.

Gallery owner David Zwirner said that the rediscovery of Asawas work has been thrilling, and that hed been told by Museum of Modern Art curators that theyd recently acquired some of her work, and that a major show may be announced soon.

Zwirner added that the artist had focused so on her family, her work and arts education that she never pounded the PR drums for herself. Its so wonderful we can make that noise for her now.

The only problem with Aint Too Proud, the Life and Times of the Temptations, which opened at Berkeley Rep last week, is that the seats are too small. I was taken by the music, of course, but I was more than taken  swept away, in fact,  by the choreography. But when I tried to mimic the moves of the dancers on stage, the woman next to me, whod wedged her handbag against the arm rest between us, looked at me as though I were making moves to steal it. Honest, lady, I had no ulterior motives. Just moved by the music.

If I buy an iPhone for $1,000, says Fred Reiss, it should also upgrade the people I call on it.

My Loan Johnson, who owns a hair salon on Union Street, was walking her dog, Thor, in Lafayette Park in San Francisco when she and Jules Older struck up a conversation. Thor, a Husky, is 2 years old, she said, and weighs 75 pounds. The dog was 8 weeks old when she and her husband ordered him from a breeder in South Carolina. He was supposed to have been a miniature.

The sellers Facebook page said the breed would be 15 to 25 pounds, but Thor kept growing and growing and growing, she told Older. When, after a year, he weighed almost 50, she first complained to the breeder, who said it was likely he was done growing. The seller said shed had years of experience breeding miniatures and sometimes they revert. Thor, however, is bigger than most full-size Huskies.

The breeders website shows only puppy pictures, says Johnson, and she and her husband have been blocked from warning potential buyers about the size of their dog. They paid about $2,000 for Thor, and, of course, We would never give him away, she said. Hes an amazing dog.

Writer Vanessa Grigoriadis was at Booksmith on Haight Street the other night with her new book, Blurred Lines: Rethinking Sex, Power, and Consent on Campus. Researching the book, the author interviewed 120 subjects at 20 universities. Hundreds of schools are under federal investigation for sexual assault, she said.

Sex between high school students is still usually a big deal, said Grigoriadis, with participants in full prior agreement, considering it a ritual of growing up. By the time they get to college, most guys think its cool to behave as though it comes naturally. Often fueled by alcohol, they step way past lines of decent behavior. Most are confused about the distinctions between no-means-no and the modern goal, yes-means-yes.

The audience at the reading was mostly men. Maybe the subjects just too painful for women.

Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, (415) 777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com; Twitter: @leahgarchik

Public Eavesdropping

And the Bahamas are on my bucket list.

Boy to boy, overheard riding bikes to Stanley Middle School in Lafayette by Jennifer Machado and Beth Eiselman
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Theres something about running a restaurant in a hotel that, for a chef, is both liberating and constraining.

Just ask James Beard Award-nominated chef Jason Franey, the man behind the menu at Villon (pronounced villain), the new restaurant at Mid-Markets Proper Hotel.

Villon opens to the public today, Sept. 18.

Sometimes you have freedom to explore. And then sometimes youre constrained because you have to be something for everyone, Franey says. Were not specific to a certain neighborhood.

And while that may be true from a culinary standpoint, the restaurant still physically exists in the Mid-Market/Civic Center area, a challenging place for any food spot, especially one in a boutique hotel where rooms start at $400 per night and a suite can cost upwards of $600 per night.

So what does a menu end up looking like when a chef spends his days exploring both restraint and freedom while trying to feed a constant stream of out-of-towners that all want to eat like locals?

In a sense, it looks like everything.

Everything Hawaiian bread with strawberry-chicken liver mousse is on the all-day menu, alongside mushroom dumplings, yuzu-furikake steak tartare and scallop ceviche. [Click here to see the all day-menu.] The breakfast menu has pho, smoked salmon and eggs benedict offerings.

Were calling it comfort geek which means its comfortable in the sense that everyone can come eat and its fun, Franey says. But its geeked out when it comes to technique so a everyone from a foodie to a chef can understand and appreciate it.

Familiar faces are shaping the beverage side, Josh Harris and Morgan Schick of Trick Dog and Bon Vivants, only this time, theyre operating under a newly created banner of BVHospitality. As an ode to the citys geography, the 7x7 cocktail menu is has seven categories with seven cocktails in each. Harris and Schick are also working on the hotels forthcoming rooftop bar, which will be named Charmaines.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Franey says being free of the hyper-niche neighborhood quirks most places need to survive is part of the reason Villons menu has the unique angle it does.

I have a lot of freedom. But were staying true to ourselves and to the city, he said.

Villon: 1100 Market St., villonsf.com or (628)895-2040. Sunday-Thursday: 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (breakfast until 11 a.m.); Friday-Saturday: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (breakfast until 11 a.m.

Justin Phillips is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Tamisha Walker is writing thank-you notes to supporters of Diana Becton, Contra Costa Countys newly appointed interim district attorney.

Walker is the executive director of Safe Return Project, a group of formerly incarcerated Richmond residents who help others smooth the bumpy path from incarceration to freedom.

So when the county Board of Supervisors selected Becton from five finalists  making her the first woman and African American to hold the top cop job  Walker was impressed.

She wanted to thank the supervisors for actually hearing the community and being on the right side of justice this time around.

Safe Return was one of a handful of community groups that didnt flee from Bectons side after she admitted lifting passages from several sources without attribution on her application for the job.

Another candidate, Tom Kensok, also copied and pasted passages without attribution.

When people of color make mistakes, it has to be about character. It just cant be a mistake, Walker, who is black, told me. Shes not the only one that made the mistake. I didnt want to give up on her.

Now Becton has a chance at redemption.

In seeking the job, Becton promised to address racial and economic disparities in the criminal justice system. She highlighted bail reform, increasing trust between the community and law enforcement, and reducing recidivism and incarceration rates. Walker said Becton sought out formerly incarcerated people and asked for their advice.

To Walker, Becton represents the people Safe Return fights for  people who dont always get second chances, especially in communities of color where there is little access to resources like quality schools and jobs. She sees Becton as an ally in the prosecutors office who could make lasting impact in those communities.

It was a feeling of accomplishment, but I also felt a large weight lift off my shoulders, said Walker, recounting the moment she realized Becton was selected. I felt safe. It was almost like I could take a breath.

Dozens of Becton supporters attended the Sept. 12 meeting of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. After public comment, the five finalists answered questions from the supervisors. Only Becton received raucous applause. Only Becton had folks waving signs supporting her.

Its good to know that Ive earned the respect of the people in this county, and they have entrusted me with this very, very important position, Becton said to me. I will do everything I can to live up to all of the expectations placed upon my shoulders.

Becton, a Contra Costa County Superior Court judge for 22 years, was a surprising choice  even without the plagiarism. Shes never worked as a prosecutor, but now shes expected to transform an office that has been slow to address racial discrepancies in the county.

Becton will serve out the term of former district attorney Mark Peterson, who resigned after pleading no contest to felony perjury.

Peterson didnt vacate his seat until he was charged with 12 felony counts of perjury and one of grand theft. Hes being replaced by someone who passed off the work of others as her own.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Its a tough pill to swallow, but I believe in rehabilitation. Yes, I believe in second chances.

As I wrote in my endorsement of Contra Costa Superior Court Judge Danielle Douglas, its time for the county to have a district attorney who listens.

Thats something Becton says shes willing to do.

It wont be me walking in saying, This is what Im going to do, she told me. We are going to collectively as an office go forward with a plan that gives us a hope and a vision to be the best district attorneys office in this entire country.

Becton only has one chance to back up her words.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Otis R. Taylor Jr. appears Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Email: otaylor@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @otisrtaylorjr
UC Berkeley will accommodate Free Speech Week next week, despite a dispute between the university and supporters of President Trump who are promoting the controversial program, campus officials said Monday.

The campus is preparing strong security for four days of mainly outdoor events Sunday through Wednesday featuring several speakers, including right-wing personality Milo Yiannopoulos. Missing from the lineup are Steve Bannon and Ann Coulter, far-right speakers whom Yiannopoulos had previously announced.

On Monday, Yiannopoulos insisted that Bannon and Coulter are still coming, even though neither has said publicly that they are attending.

Yiannopoulos told The Chronicle last week that each event would take place indoors, including at the 2,000-seat Zellerbach Hall. But campus spokesman Dan Mogulof said the Berkeley Patriot student group that invited Yiannopoulos missed contract deadlines that would have given UC police enough time to arrange appropriate security at the indoor sites.

Even so, the events at mostly outdoor locations for Free Speech Week can go on as planned, Mogulof said. Those include speeches by conservative and far-right political commentators at Lower Sproul Plaza, Anna Head Hall and the steps of Sproul Hall, known as the Savio Steps.

Only two of the speakers  Yiannopoulos and commentator David Horowitz  have formally confirmed with the university that they will attend, said Mogulof. The university requires speakers to confirm if they will appear. He said administrators will consider what to do about speakers who fail to do so.

The university cannot defend spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide security arrangements for events based on a schedule built on a long list of unconfirmed speakers, Mogulof said.

Yiannopoulos said Monday, Berkeley doesnt choose our list of speakers. We do. They are running a misinformation campaign to try to get the students to cancel. There is no change to our headliners. ... We will proceed, come hell or high water, inside or out.

Security is at the heart of the dispute among the campus, students and speakers.

Police have increased security measures for conservative and far-right speakers since Feb. 1, when antiright-wing rioters forced the cancellation of a Yiannopoulos speech just as it was about to begin.

The campus said the Berkeley Patriot group missed deadlines for signing contracts, paying fees and providing final details of the events.

Student Pranav Jandhyala, editor for the Berkeley Patriot news site, blamed UC Berkeley officials for being uncommunicative, not responding to emails, unable to meet, rescheduling meetings  everything they could try to do to throw sticks in the spokes.

Yiannopoulos also blames UC Berkeley, saying the campus should give them access to two large campus buildings, Wheeler Hall and Zellerbach Hall, because his group paid $65,759 on Monday to secure building space.

Mogulof said the fee arrived too late for the campus to ensure building security.

If it was so important for them to have these indoor venues, why didnt they sign the contract back in August? he said.

Yiannopoulos, the main organizer, espouses far-right views and is gay. He used an antigay slur in the title of his nationwide tour of campuses last year, including aborted visits to UC Davis and UC Berkeley.

Nearly 200 professors and graduate students are pushing an all-campus boycott during the four days of the event, citing potential violence and the need to keep students and employees safe.

This spring, a different student group, the Berkeley College Republicans, sued the University of California and UC Berkeley after a failed attempt to bring Coulter to campus. The students claim the campus is biased against conservative speakers.

Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NanetteAsimov

Free Speech Week schedule

The following speeches by conservative and far-right political commentators are expected on the steps of Sproul Hall, known as the Savio Steps, amid high security:

Sunday: Noon-12:55 p.m., Miss Elaine, a Miami drag queen

Sunday: 5-6:45 p.m., Lucian Wintrich, Lisa De Pasquale and Chadwick Moore

Monday: Noon-12:55 p.m., Heather MacDonald is listed but tweeted Friday that contrary to news reports, I have not been contacted about participating in Free Speech Week at @UCBerkeley.

Monday: 5- 7 p.m., Street artist Sabo and Monica Crowley

Wednesday: Noon-12:55 p.m., Mike Cernovich

Wednesday: 5-6:55 p.m., Ariana Rowlands and politician Stelian Onufrei

Also, these conservative political commentators are listed as speaking at two other locations also under strong security:

Monday at Anna Head Hall: 7:30-9:30 p.m., Psychologist Jordan Peterson and James Damore, who was recently fired by Google for writing a memo saying men are biologically better suited for coding jobs than are women.

Tuesday in Lower Sproul Plaza: 5-7 p.m., Yiannopoulos interviews Blackwater founder Erik Prince and commentators Katie Hopkins, Pamela Geller and David Horowitz.

Update: A previous version of this article stated that Michael Malice was expected to appear in Lower Sproul Plaza at noon on Tuesday. Malice contacted The Chronicle and said he has no plans to appear.
The biggest news out of Sacramento last week was the housing legislation package. After years of an agonizing housing crisis that has displaced families, impoverished residents, and limited the states economic growth, state legislators finally passed a package of bills that will streamline some of the regulations that can prevent new construction and fund more affordable housing production in the state.

The Legislatures strong action on housing is a positive step for the whole state. But its also passed hundreds of other important bills in the past several weeks. This end-of-session crunch means that some new legislation wont receive the attention it deserves.

Lets start with the positive news. Despite retrenchments on the national level, the Legislature passed a number of bills to expand rights and protections for Californias diverse population.

SB179, by state Sens. Toni Atkins, D-San Diego, and Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, will create a third gender option  nonbinary  on drivers licenses and birth certificates, beginning in 2019. It will also allow parents of a transgender young person to apply to change the gender listed on a childs birth certificate.

Most people will be unaffected by SB179, but it will make an enormous difference to nonbinary and transgender Californians.

Another bill, AB1209, will require large companies to report their mean and median salary data by classification and gender to the Secretary of State, who will post the data online. Transparency is a well-proven method for reducing pay inequities based on gender, an issue that remains frustratingly alive in California and states beyond.

Following an uproar over the matter of untested rape kits  theres a backlog of more than 9,000 in California alone  the Legislature passed AB41, from state Assemblyman David Chiu, D-San Francisco. For the first time, law enforcement agencies will be required to report annual data on kit collection and testing.

Finally, AB90 from state Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, D-San Diego, advances an important reform for Californias troubled gang database. A 2016 audit found that the database was riddled with erroneous entries and had no organized oversight  potentially putting many innocent young people at risk for legal action and even deportation. AB90 gives the states Justice Department control over the database  and requires law enforcement agencies to develop rules for its use and maintenance.

On campaign reform, lawmakers signed off on AB249, by Assemblyman Kevin Mullin, D-San Mateo, which requires ads for ballot measures or independent expenditures for or against candidates to more fully disclose the source of their funding. This would close a significant gap in campaign disclosure law.

Gov. Jerry Brown should sign all of these bills.

Now for the bad news.

The telecom industry muscled SB649 through the Legislature, a bad bill that will allow the companies to install obtrusive antennas and equipment on almost any street light or traffic signal without the input of local communities.

Brown should veto it.

This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters.
Jacquelyn Martin/Associated Press

In a recent speech at George Mason Universitys Antonin Scalia Law School, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced the Department of Education will change its approach to sexual misconduct on campuses and introduce new regulations. Specifically, the 1972 federal law, Title IX, prohibits sex discrimination in schools that receive federal funding. Under former President Barack Obama, the law expanded to protect women from sexual assault and harassment.

DeVos says they will start a public notice process to replace the current process and repeatedly emphasized the rights of both the victims and accused students. In her speech, DeVos placed blame on the Obama administration, saying the failed system has clearly pushed schools to overreach. The announcement was immediately met with criticism from Title IX supporters. In response, 29 senators sent an open letter to DeVos regarding the plan to rescind Title IX guidelines, calling it a step in the wrong direction in addressing the national epidemic of campus sexual assault.
California is taking on the states doctor shortage by budgeting $33 million to fund medical residencies in the Golden States neediest areas. That funding is sorely needed as the states doctor shortage is acute in many parts of the state and growing worse.

Though government funding is vital, we clearly cant rely on it for an adequate, or even consistent, supply of resources. There are simply too many other priorities competing for tax dollars.

Earlier this year, the UCSFs Healthforce Center reported that the states rural areas were experiencing chronic doctor shortages, even though the number of primary care doctors statewide had increased over the past 12 years.

Only two regions  the Greater Bay Area and Sacramento  had a sufficient number of primary care doctors. The Council on Graduate Medical Education recommends between 60 and 80 doctors for every 100,000 people.

Three regions  all rural  had 50 or fewer doctors per 100,000 people. In the vast Inland Empire, there are only 39 per 100,000.

The California Primary Care Association calculates that the state will need 8,243 additional primary care physicians by 2030. That would require increasing the size of the primary care workforce by nearly one-third. Doing so could be difficult.

Thats in part because most of the states medical residencies are in areas that already have a healthy ratio of doctors to patients. And research shows that most doctors end up staying where they did their residencies. A study published in Family Medicine, a medical journal, found that 55 percent of family physicians practice within 100 miles of their residency programs.

California appears to recognize this reality. But the state budget approved represents a turnabout for the Brown administration, which initially called for cutting the $33 million in spending for residencies in underserved areas. Back in May, the states Department of Finance called the proposed cut a question of affordability. Never mind that it represented less than .01 percent of the states $183 billion budget.

Nationally, support for medical residencies is severely lacking. In 2010, Congress allocated $46 million a year for five years to support 750 primary care residents in underserved areas in 27 states. Lawmakers extended the program for two years in 2015  but allocated only $43 million a year. That reduction has caused some teaching health centers to train fewer residents and others to close.

Whats needed is an approach that enlists medical schools, private foundations, and individual donors to help fill the gap. Fortunately, theres been some progress in this area.

Given that doctors tend to stay where theyre trained, public officials and educational leaders should consider bringing medical education to the places where physicians are in demand. UC Riverside, for instance, recently built a new public medical school in the Inland Empire, site of the states worst primary care shortage.

The University of Kansas Medical School has a Scholars in Rural Health program that recruits undergraduates willing to complete an M.D. and practice in rural Kansas. Successful candidates are guaranteed admission to the medical school and can receive a full scholarship.

The CityDoctors program at St. Georges University, the school I lead, offers scholarships that can cover the cost of medical school for those who commit to practicing at public hospitals in New York City. More than three-quarters of our grads pursue careers in primary care.

The Walmart Foundation last year awarded a $750,000 grant for a Northwest Arkansas Community Internal Medicine Residency Program that will cover its first two years of operating costs. Northwest Arkansas was short about 148 medical residents.

Californians eager to do their part can contact lawmakers and encourage them to fund more residencies and establish new graduate medical education centers in underserved areas, such as the Central Valley and inland Southern California. Individuals can also make a difference by donating to hospitals like the Desert Regional Medical Center or San Joaquin General Hospital, both of which host residents in underserved communities.

The United States has historically proved capable of galvanizing public and private resources to make great strides in public health. The successful decades-long campaign against smoking is a prime example.

We need the same level of urgency when it comes to the most basic health care need of all  access to a primary care physician.

Dr. G. Richard Olds is president of St. Georges University (www.sgu.edu) and founding dean of the UC Riverside School of Medicine.
Blood stirring Boris is just the tonic we need: QUENTIN LETTS on why Bojo's upbeat Brexit vision will succeed

By Quentin Letts for the Daily Mail18 September 2017Our dullard Establishment hates anyone with a vision. But that is exactly how Boris Johnson described his article which has caused such hyperventilational hand-flapping among Remain snobs.Heres my Brexit vision, said swashbuckling Boris. And what a magnificent, upbeat, tolerant vision it was.Freedom to run our own business sector without Brussels setting our regulations and taxes. Immigration laws to suit Britain (not Bulgaria or Romania or Berlins Frau Merkel).And the right to say how we spend that weekly 350million  and yes, whatever the BBC says, that IS how much of our cash is currently under the say of boozy Brussels bigwig Jean-Claude Juncker.Boris diplomatically did not have a go at M Juncker in his article but he hardly needed to.European Commission president Juncker has already achieved cut-through on the streets of Britain and he has become a wonderful vote-winner for Brexit.His pompous antics and now naked political ambitions (which were disguised during the referendum campaign but became apparent with his state of the union speech last week when he called for ever-greater tax powers for Brussels) have left larger numbers of British voters thinking thank goodness were leaving.This is one of the things Brussels, the Blairites, pro-EU Tories and the absurd Lib Dems at their conference down in Bournemouth do not acknowledge: British Euroscepticism is now stronger than it was last June.The Remainers only hope is in the elite somehow neutering Brexit behind the scenes in parliamentary committees and inside Downing Street.That is what they are trying to do, but thanks to Boris and (though sadly to a lesser extent) his fellow Brexiteer ministers such as David Davis and Liam Fox, it is by no means certain they will succeed.Westminsters heebie-jeebies about Boriss weekend article must puzzle those outside the political bubble  the people of places such as Sunderland and Stoke-on-Trent and Walsall and Wigan who so firmly voted for Brexit.Boris said he backed Mrs May and he firmly reiterated what she said in her Lancaster House speech in January.Whats the problem?True, he touched on education and health policy, areas of government policy beyond his brief, but as holder of one of the great offices of state he has a right to offer his world view on such matters.Boris is Foreign Secretary, and therefore most certainly has a right  a duty  to say what he thinks about the Brexit process. It is very much his business, despite what pro-Remain Home Secretary Amber Rudd said yesterday when she attacked Mr Johnson for back-seat driving.Then there is the quibble about timing. The Scottish Tories Europhile Ruth Davidson  a talented politician who could well be next Tory leader, if only she could swallow the democratic verdict on Brexit  said Boris should be thinking only of public service so soon after the Parsons Green Tube bomb.Without wishing to diminish the disgracefulness of that terror attack, this seems an overly prissy position.Why the heck should our politics be paralysed by would-be terrorists? Londoners are made of solid stuff. Miss Davidson should not patronise them by suggesting we must all go into black-crepe purdah every time some Isis punk tries it on.Ah, continue Boriss critics, but he should not have spoken out so close to the big speech Mrs May is going to give in Italy on Friday. And now, perhaps, we step closer to the nub. Here is petty politics in the raw.Miss Rudd and Chancellor Philip Hammond and First Secretary Damian Green, all former Remainers and members of the Downing Street court, may have thought they had Theresa May in the bag.With that Italian speech looming, was the Rudd/Hammond/Green axis prematurely congratulating itself that it had forced the PM to concede important ground to Brussels on how much of a divorce payment we will give the EU?Can we not imagine Downing Streets Cabinet Secretary, the egregious Sir Jeremy Heywood, oiling the cogs for Rudd/Hammond/Green? Boris was away in the Caribbean last week, offering solidarity to our dependent territories damaged by Hurricane Irma. What a perfect time for all that Press briefing that Mrs May was preparing to weaken her position on the divorce payment.Boris, now back in Britain, thinks we should be prepared to tell the EU to get stuffed if need be. His article may certainly make it harder for Remainers to give billions of pounds of taxpayers money to the EU. Hooray!For weeks this Foreign Secretary has been effectively silenced on Brexit by the Whitehall machine. The Civil Services compromise merchants were appalled by the thought of Boris sticking to the principles on which he and Nigel Farage and pro-Leave Labour politicians won the Referendum. No doubt some of the Cabinets former Remainers felt a smidgen of envy that Boris backed the winning side last June.I have not always been a total Boris fan. His bedroom palavers, his tendency to try to busk through problems and his eye for the main chance are all major drawbacks. But he has a little-rivalled connection with the voters. His ability to discuss politics in a pungent, picaresque way, is something the Hammonds and Greens of this world lack. What anti-democratic bores many Remainers are.It has to be admitted that since last years thrilling Leave vote, Brexiteers have been outgunned in the media and Parliament. Did they ill-advisedly think the battle was won? Or was it inevitable that Remainers would resist the will of the people last June?The status-quo brigade continue to hold most of the top positions in public life and they are determined not to give up their perks without a dirty fight.Westminsters elite, particularly the House of Lords, is in a furious sulk about June 2016s amazing democratic result. On the airwaves and in the broadsheet Press, the Remain side has most of the firepower. Our broadcasters (not least yesterday mornings political programme on Sky) are aggressively pro-EU.The Financial Times and Economist, both read (and believed!) by Eurocrats, are forever undermining Brexit. No wonder Brussels has got it into its mind that our Government will meekly hand over scores of billions of pounds simply to leave the EU club.The readiness of some politicians and commentators to support a hefty divorce payment is bizarre  the political equivalent of terrible self-harm. These billions belong to us, not to the chancelleries of Europe.What sort of madness grips an MP (such as Labours arch-Remainer David Lammy) who recommends that we willingly hand over all that gold? This money should be spent on British nurses and doctors, British police officers and firemen, British soldiers and care workers. This should be a great working-class cause. And yet centre-Leftists want the dosh to be given away to Brussels!Until Boriss contribution at the weekend it was as though the waters had almost closed over last summers revolution and our club-class rulers felt they could resume business as normal. Boriss blood-stirring blast may force them to think again.Read more: QUENTIN LETTS on why Boris' Brexit vision will succeed* | Daily Mail Online Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

As a swirl of swells clinked Champagne glasses in the foyer of Davies Hall at the 106th opening-night gala of the San Francisco Symphony, newly appointed executive director Mark Hanson was feeling rather lucky.

After seven years as executive director-CEO with the Houston Symphony, he and his wife, Christina Hanson, packed up and arrived in San Francisco less than 24 hours before Hurricane Harvey slammed into Texas.

We feel very lucky. But our hearts are with friends and colleagues there, he said. After a two-week storm delay, the Houston Symphony opens tomorrow. Were really proud how all of Houston is coming together to help one another through the devastation.

Their luck, he said, was mingled with some survivors guilt  as well as an exhilaration the couple feel living in San Francisco, a great city that boasts this renowned cultural organization led by the equally heralded maestro Michael Tilson Thomas.

Weve been receiving earthquake-survival tips, noted Hanson, nervous that the mere mention might spark such a situation. Like keeping sneakers in the trunk of our car in case an earthquake hits during an event like this  and youd need to walk a further distance than high heels might allow.

Yet the only rumbles heard this joyful night emanated from inside Davies Hall, where the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra and celebrated cellist Yo-Yo Ma exquisitely plucked and pa-rum-pum-pummed their instruments into a rousing crescendo culminating in Ravels Bolero.

The night before the gala, Thomas and his husband, Joshua Robison, hosted Patrons Dinner Committee members at their home for a reception with Ma.

Yo-Yo is awesome  he plays with such great joy that you cant help but feel joyful, enthused Symphony President Sako Fisher. He described how he thinks about music as our shared creation of a memory together. And his music is a way to make that happen.

Expertly led by Gala Chairwoman Priscilla Geeslin (who helped sell the most tickets and tables since 2007), the sizzling soiree featured a red-carpet cocktail party, and a Palm Springs-meets-Space Age styled tent (designed by Blueprint Studios) where a delish Patrons Dinner by McCalls Catering starred a delectable Sonoma chevre cheesecake dessert.

Back at Davies, the gowns were less voluminous than those seen at Opera Ball, but the glamour quotient was off the charts. There were more nods to mod, as Symphony swans strutted about in metallics and monochrome adorned with bold or graphic designs.

And those in the know (including former Symphony President Nancy Bechtle and honorary gala co-chair Jan Shrem) paid homage to Thomas in his favorite hue of blue.

Though Maria Manetti Shrem and her husband underwrote the galas guest artists, she was surprised to discover Geeslin appointed them as the galas honorary chairs.

I admire this woman so much: Priscilla chaired the Symphony Gala last year, too, as well as the 50th anniversary ACT gala. Her husband, Keith (Geeslin), is Opera Association president, she declared. I adore them; theyre an incredible asset to San Francisco.

She also adores Ma, a master of the cello and MTT, master maestro of the orchestra.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

And Sako Fisher wholeheartedly agreed with that assessment.

I think Michael is more creative now than 22 years ago when I chaired his first Symphony Gala, she recalled. Hes laser focused on the Symphonys Bernstein centennial celebration, and his writing, composing and conducting are reaching new artistic heights. Michael is on fire.

Post-concert, deep-pocketed gala donors alighted at the Symphonys Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall (tricked out with sleek cafe society banquettes paired with an industrial Got Light installation) where McCalls served late-night noshes as a duo played Bach.

Thanking his A-team, Thomas saluted longtime supporter Ann Moller Caen and her late husband, Chronicle columnist Herb Caen, whom MTT paraphrased with a toast, As Herb might write: Right now are the good old days.

So many of you understand the cultural center and message of our city, said Thomas. At this moment, more than ever before, we must ensure everyone remembers the principles which formally used to be self-evident in our country. And to figure out ways in which the arts we present, the message behind that and the wonderful people who make this music can be ever stronger. Thanks to all of you, Im confident, it will always be.

Catherine Bigelow is The San Francisco Chronicles society correspondent. Email: missbigelow@sfgate.com Instagram: @missbigelow
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

A mural is at the heart of a dispute between neighbors in Bayview.

Since opening in January, business has been steady at Luxurious Nail Boutique & Spa, located at 4138 3rd Street (near Innes) in Bayview. However, according to owner Richard Washington, the salon's biggest issue has been visibility.

To remedy this, Washington applied for a $25,000 grant from SF Shines Program. Sponsored by the Mayors Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) and the Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), the program provides various forms of facade and business interior improvements to small businesses in underserved neighborhoods throughout San Francisco.

Over the course of three months, with support from Steven J Eichler of Eichler Designs and Precita Eyes Muralists, Washington was able to secure a new awning and mural installation featuring cherry blossoms.

As the work progressed, neighbors occasionally popped in the salon to express their gratitude for the new facade.

However, earlier this month, Washington received a call from Nancy Zeng, the building's commercial property owner. He was told that he needed to remove the mural and repaint the building to its original color.

Its frustrating and confusing," Washington told us. "Upon receiving the grant from the city to do the mural and awning, I went directly to Nancy for permission and she signed off on everything.

"Now Im being told that everything has to go through the Homeowners Association (HOA), which is made up from the seven condo owners on top of the building," he continued. "This is actually the first time Ive heard of the HOA, and my lease didnt say anything about me having to ask their permission to make my business visible. If that was the case. I would have never applied for this grant.

With most of the work completed, the project has come to a complete halt. Nancy Zeng told us that this misunderstanding has caused her a great deal of stress and sleepless nightsnot to mention money.

I dont recall signing off a mural," she said. "I thought the application was for an awning and window signage. I wasnt aware of the mural until it happened, and the HOA doesnt like it and wont allow it."

She said that she was not happy about the situation. "I tried to contact them and help Mr. Washington, but what can I do? It is based on their decision.

Washington disputed Zeng's account, pointing out there was already signage in his window. He also said that he made it clear what his goals were in the application.

"Originally, we were going to install planters," he said. "But we switched gears when we realized that they may cause people to litter, so we decided to do a mural. Nancy was aware of this."

When we reached out to Andrew Cantor, president of the HOA, he said that the whole ordeal had caught the group off guard.

"Its flat-out illegal under the rules that govern our building," said Cantor. Nancy sold my unit to me and I purchased it under the conditions that nobody is allowed to paint outside the building. She created the same rules that shes breaking."

"The HOA is not trying to make things difficult for Mr. Washington, but Nancy should have never signed off on this project without discussing with the HOA," he added. "Its messed up because its not Mr. Washingtons fault. I would be just as frustrated if I were in his situation."

Cantor's comment is supported by the condo contract itself. Residents who purchased a condo in the building were required to sign off on two clauses.

One required the occupant of the commercial unit to maintain a sign of "reasonable dimensions," while the other said that "if the owner fails to properly maintain the sign, the HOA may...repair the building and hold the owner accountable.

Although these clauses were never presented to Washington when he signed his lease for the salon, he will have to comply with the terms and remove the mural by the end of this week.

He said that as a small business owner, he believes that he should have the right to make changes that would increase visibility for his business.

"Its really upsetting," he said. "They are telling me that the artwork is not subtle. Its not like anything offensive was painted on the building. It's cherry blossoms and bamboo shootscome on!

Despite the order to remove the mural, he said that he was open to working with the HOA and "arrive at a solution that is fair to everyone."

This story originally appeared on Hoodline.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Three-point-one-four was more than a number to museum curator Larry Shaw, who created the offbeat, lighthearted and pizza-infused mathematical holiday known as Pi Day.

It was Mr. Shaw, a man who loved numbers even more than he loved a slice of pizza, who transformed the endless number into an endless celebration of mathematics, joy and pepperoni.

Mr. Shaw, who died Aug. 19 at age 78 in a Petaluma assisted-living residence from complications of Alzheimers disease, was the technical curator at the Exploratorium science museum in San Francisco. In 1988, during a staff retreat, he came up with the idea to link the digits of pi, which begins 3.14, with the date March 14.

At first the event was celebrated only by Exploratorium staff. But great ideas have a way of catching on and, before long, Pi Day was a fixture and a public celebration at the museum, and then by math lovers everywhere. It didnt hurt the cause, he often said, that March 14 also turned out to be the birthday of Albert Einstein.

For 38 years, Mr. Shaw would don a red cap emblazoned with the magic digits and lead a parade of museumgoers, each of them holding a sign bearing one of the digits of pi. Off they would march, in strict order, with 3 in front, and the holder of the decimal point sign next, and then 14159265358979323846264338327950288419716939937510582 ...

The number of sign carriers was exhausted long before the number of digits of pi, that being the nature of infinitely long numbers.

Pi  the ratio of a circles circumference to its diameter  may be an irrational number, but Mr. Shaws celebration of it was the height of rationality, civility and order. If one of the sign holders lost his place in line, he was quickly steered into the right spot by the rest of the participants, who took their duties seriously.

He was honored that it became such a holiday, said his wife of 54 years, Catherine, and it was a greater honor when the Exploratorium decided not to charge admission on Pi Day.

Because all that marching could work up an appetite, Pi Day would also feature lots of the other kind of pie. Mr. Shaw loved all varieties of pie equally, said his wife.

He didnt have a favorite, she said. He ate everything.

Mr. Shaw was a native of Washington, D.C., who moved to the Bay Area with his family as a toddler. He was a graduate of Pleasant Hill High School and received a bachelors degree in physics in 1961 from Reed College in Portland, Ore.

After working in physics-related jobs at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and at UC Berkeley  and then taking time off to tour Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula on a motorcycle and hike through the Sierra  Mr. Shaw joined the Exploratorium staff in 1972.

He specialized in helping the museums artists-in-residence turn their often-wild ideas into actual Exploratorium exhibits, and he also helped design a lighthearted series of hexagons that visitors would step, bounce and dance upon to create abstract music.

The best part of Pi Day, Mr. Shaw believed, was its ability to make math seem accessible and fun to those average folks who may have suffered through it during their school days.

He loved to help people realize they are capable, and that they can get involved in areas of human thought that they thought were closed to them, said his wife. Thats what the Exploratorium stands for, too.

Mr. Shaw is survived by his wife, of Mill Valley; and by two daughters, Tara Shaw of Berkeley and Sara Shaw of Spokane, Wash.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Buddhist Temple of Marin at 390 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. Pie will be served.

Steve Rubenstein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: srubenstein@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SteveRubeSF
The South Dakota Supreme Court has brought the question of whether online retailers should pay sales tax back into sharp focus.

The states highest court ruled Thursday that companies selling wares over the Internet cant be forced to collect South Dakotas 4.5 percent tax on purchases, laying the groundwork for a U.S. Supreme Court appeal that could change law across the country. A decision forcing online retailers to collect such taxes could be worth billions in revenue to state and local governments.

The court backed an appeal by online retailers Overstock.com, Wayfair and NewEgg challenging a state law that required companies that do more than $100,000 worth of business in online sales in the state to collect sales taxes.

The law ran afoul of the U.S. Supreme Courts 1992 decision in Quill Corp vs. North Dakota, which forbade states from requiring retailers without a physical presence to collect sales tax. Justice Anthony Kennedy has suggested in later rulings that the court reconsider the decision.

Kennedys views, combined with the South Dakota courts quick but complete dispatch of the case, significantly enhance the chances that the U.S. Supreme Court will agree to consider the case during the next term, said Deborah White, a lawyer for the Retail Industry Leaders Association.

Officials of Overstock and New Egg, based in City of Industry (Los Angeles County) didnt immediately respond to emails seeking comment. Caroline Burns, a spokeswoman for Wayfair, declined to comment.

The Internet sales-tax issue has become a hot potato for online retail giant Amazon.com, which is jousting with the state of South Carolina over disputed payments. In June, the state filed a complaint alleging Amazon failed to collect taxes on sales made by third-party merchants on the retailers online marketplace.

South Carolina claims Amazon owes $12.5 million in taxes, penalties and interest for the first three months of 2016. That figure will continue to accrue until this matter is resolved, state officials have said.

Amazon officials didnt return an email Thursday seeking comment on the South Carolina case or the South Dakota ruling.

Amazon began collecting sales taxes on purchases in all states that levy them earlier this year. But the online retailer avoids charging shoppers sales taxes when they buy from one of its third-party vendors  sales that make up about half the companys volume.

The South Dakota statute that required online retailers to cough up sales tax was specifically drafted so the states highest court could quickly reject it and set it up for U.S. Supreme Court review, said Robert Desiderio, a University of New Mexico Law School tax professor.

Technology has outstripped tax policy and the Supreme Court should address whether all retailers should pay their fair share of taxes, Desiderio said. Should it really make a difference if the sale is over the Internet or at a store? he asked.

The South Dakota case is State of South Dakota vs. Wayfair Inc., 28160-a-GAS, Supreme Court of South Dakota (Pierre).

Executives

Ciscos board loses Chambers

Cisco Systems Chief Executive Officer Chuck Robbins will add the executive chairman role to his title, solidifying his position as he tries to remake the business that John Chambers built into one of the largest companies in the technology industry.

Chambers will not stand for re-election to the post of executive chairman in December, the San Jose company said Monday, ending more than two decades of leadership at the networking company. He first joined the board in 1993. Robbins, who has been CEO since 2015, will assume that role.

Jobs

Unemployment rate rises

California shed 8,200 non-farm jobs in August, while the states unemployment rate rose 0.3 percentage points to 5.1 percent, according to California Employment Development Department data released Friday. Thats higher than the national unemployment rate, which rose slightly to 4.4 percent in August.

The jump in the unemployment rate was mainly due to an increase in the labor force, Robert Kleinhenz, executive director of research at Beacon Economics and the Center for Economic Forecasting and Development, said in a statement.

Additional analysis by Beacon showed that the East Bay added 800 jobs in August, while San Jose metro area lost 3,000 jobs and the San Francisco area (which extends south to Redwood City and South San Francisco) lost 2,000 jobs.

Self-driving cars

Intel expands ties to Waymo

Intel Corp. says it is expanding its relationship with Google spin-off Waymo in the development of self-driving cars.

The worlds largest computer chipmaker said Monday that it will take on a more collaborative role with Waymos new self-driving Chrysler Pacifica minivans. Intel will continue to supply technology for the autonomous driving project.

Waymos Chrysler Pacifica fleet is fitted out with Intel technology for sensor processing, general computing and connectivity.

No financial details of the deal between Intel and Waymo were announced.

Intel of Santa Clara recently acquired Israels Mobileye, a leader in software that integrates autonomous car sensors. BMW, Intel and Mobileye announced an autonomous vehicle partnership last year.

Acquisitions

Northrop

to buy Orbital

Northrop Grumman, one of the nations largest defense contractors, announced on Monday that it planned to acquire Orbital ATK by paying $7.8 billion in cash and assuming $1.4 billion in debt.

The surprise move gives Northrop some sought-after capabilities  from missile defense to small satellites and even a rocket  allowing it to enter new markets at a time of increased tension globally.

Northrop has long been a leader in the defense industry and is developing the B-21 Raider, the long-range stealth bomber, for the Air Force, after beating out a Boeing-Lockheed Martin team for the contract.

The acquisition, should it be approved by regulators and Orbital ATKs shareholders, would give Northrop access to Orbital ATKs small-satellite division at a time when the Pentagon, and others, are seeking to put up constellations of small satellites that could beam the Internet to remote areas and provide Earth observation capabilities.

Chronicle News Services
The U.S. Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into whether top officials at Equifax Inc. violated insider trading laws when they sold stock before the company disclosed that it had been hacked, according to people familiar with the investigation.

U.S. prosecutors in Atlanta, who the people said are looking into the share sales, said in a statement that they are examining the breach and theft of peoples personal information in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Securities and Exchange Commission is working with prosecutors on the investigation into stock sales, according to another person familiar with the matter.

The federal probes add a serious challenge to Equifax as lawmakers, state attorneys general and regulators scrutinize the breach that may have compromised the privacy of 143 million U.S. consumers. Equifax shares were little changed. The shares have fallen 35 percent since the breach was disclosed after the market closed on Sept. 7.

Investigators are looking at the stock sales by Equifaxs chief financial officer, John Gamble; its president of U.S. information solutions, Joseph Loughran; and its president of workforce solutions, Rodolfo Ploder, said two of the people, who asked not to be named because the investigation is confidential.

David Goldman/Associated Press

The company and the executives didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

Equifax disclosed earlier this month that it had discovered a security breach on July 29. The three executives sold shares worth almost $1.8 million in early August. The company has said the managers didnt know of the breach at the time they sold the shares.

Regulatory filings dont show that the transactions were part of scheduled trading plans.

To run afoul of laws that prohibit insider trading, a seller has to be aware of nonpublic information, said Stephen Crimmins, a former enforcement lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The probe will be handled by the U.S. attorneys office in Atlanta, where the credit firms headquarters is located, said one of the people. A spokesman for the U.S. attorneys office in Atlanta declined to comment on the investigation into share sales, but confirmed an inquiry into events surrounding the hack.

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Georgia is working with the FBI to conduct a criminal investigation into the Equifax breach and resulting theft of personal information, said U.S. Attorney John Horn in a statement.

The SEC, in its preliminary probe, is looking into what executives knew and when about the data breach, according to the person familiar with that matter.

More than one-third of U.S. senators have called on the Securities and Exchange Commission, in addition to the Justice Department, to get to the bottom of whether Equifax managers violated insider trading laws when they sold stock days after the company found out it was hacked.

Separately, state and federal regulators and law enforcers are scrutinizing the companys data security practices and its response to the breach. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission and a congressional committee with subpoena power last week joined the growing number of bodies looking into the cyberattack.

Tom Schoenberg, Anders Melin and Matt Robinson are Bloomberg writers: Email: tschoenberg@bloomberg.net, amelin3@bloomberg.net, mrobinson55@bloomberg.net
ST. LOUIS  St. Louis police made arrests Sunday night as protesters broke windows and damaged property during a third night of demonstrations over the acquittal of a white former police officer charged in the shooting death of a black man.

After organizers announced the demonstration had ended, a few dozen people continued to march downtown and some in the crowd started knocking over large potted plants and throwing objects through windows.

Buses carrying police in full riot gear and shields arrived near the downtown location where police said significant property damage was reported after an hours-long nonviolent protest Sunday afternoon. At least seven people were taken into custody.

Heading into a third night of protests, organizers said they were frustrated that a few people who have caused trouble at night could make it harder to spread their nonviolent message.

Sundays crowd began protesting silently in the late afternoon in front of the Police Department building, then chanted stop killing us as officers looked on from headquarters windows.

Protesters object to the not-guilty verdict issued Friday for Jason Stockley, who had been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of Anthony Lamar Smith in 2011.

Authorities closed off several blocks around the police headquarters Sunday afternoon in anticipation of the demonstration, which followed two days of nonviolent marches that devolved after sunset when small groups turned violent on Friday and Saturday nights.

The protests evoke the angry and sometimes violent protests after the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson.

Stockley shot Smith after Smith fled from Stockley and his partner in a high-speed chase as they tried to arrest him for a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified that he felt he was in danger because he saw Smith holding a revolver. Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smiths car after the shooting.
An 11-year veteran of the San Jose Police Department was identified by authorities Sunday as the officer involved in the fatal shooting Friday of an armed-robbery suspect following a high-risk traffic stop.

Officer Mike Pina shot and killed the 33-year-old man, who police officials described as a known gang member with a felony warrant for armed robbery. The shooting occurred just after 7 p.m. near White and Penitencia Creek roads in East San Jose when Pina attempted to pull the man over.
A Southern California high school is under fire for allegedly taping students' wrists together and having them lie down in a dark room for a slavery lesson, multiple media outlets report.

The mother of an eighth grader at Whitney High Schoo in Cerritos, California, took to Facebook on September 11 to express her outrage at the lesson.

Sharde Carrington said she received an email under the heading "A Unique Classroom Activity" from a teacher detailing the lesson plan, in which staff "will be acting as slave ship captains and your son/daughter will be pretending to be a slave."

The email, screenshots of which Carrington shared on her Facebook, continued:

"Specifically, when class starts, we will sternly tell them to line up outside the room, use masking tape to 'tie' their wrists together, make them lay on the ground inside the room (which will be dark) should to shoulder with each other (boys and girls are in separate rows) and then while they lay there, have them watch a clip from the film 'Roots.' "

The note says the activity is meant to make students "uncomfortable and to feel mistreated, like a piece of property" and has taken place at the school for "several years." It also urged parents not to tell their children about the activity as it "is more powerful when it comes as a surprise."

Carrington says she responded to the email saying, "Not my child," and reached out to the school counselor and principal. She claims the department chair responded and "mansplained the 'activity' to me, while failing to address critical points in my argument."

Speaking to Huffington Post, Carrington said, "As the mother of a black child, I feared that my son's participation would lead him to experience trauma, perhaps at the cellular level, and have a visceral reaction of anger and fear during the exercise itself."

She said she wasn't certain why such a lesson had ever been approved at all and argued, "Would you simulate rape in order to encourage sensitivity toward survivors? Will children pretend to be in Japanese internment camps as well?"

District superintendent Mary Sieu did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Sieu told Los Cerritos News that the exercise was developed years ago "to enable students to understand what Africans experienced when they were enslaved." She said that Whitney High Principal John Briquelet "recognizes that the times have changed since these exercises were developed" and will work with his teachers "to discontinue this exercise in the future and look for more updated lessons in regards to the slave history."

Read Michelle Robertsons latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com.
Sneaking across the U.S. border from Mexico is tougher than ever before, and U.S. agents are catching or stopping the majority of those who attempt to do so, according to a new report by the Department of Homeland Security.

The report, published last week by the agencys Office of Immigration Statistics, estimates that 55 to 85 percent of attempted illegal border crossings are unsuccessful, up from 35 to 70 percent a decade ago. In one telling sign of the difficulty, the number of illegal migrants and deportees who make repeated attempts to get in has also fallen dramatically because so many would-be migrants are giving up.

The reports findings challenge depictions of the U.S. border as a place where American law enforcement is overwhelmed and ineffective. President Trump has ordered DHS to make preparations for the construction of a wall between the United States and Mexico, and last week he met with Democratic Party leaders to negotiate additional border security improvements.

The new DHS report indicates that the agency already has made significant progress in its ability to stop people from sneaking in or consider trying. Arrests along the Mexico border fell to historic lows during the Obama presidency, then dropped further after Trump took office vowing a crackdown.

Available data indicate that the southwest land border is more difficult to illegally cross today than ever before, the report states, while noting that the number of arrests made by U.S. agents is at its lowest point since 2000, and likely since the early 1970s.

Efforts to gauge the flow of illegal immigration to the United States are often just as politicized as the issue itself, but Congress has instructed DHS to produce detailed reports on the current state of U.S. border security and the effectiveness of American agents ability to stop illegal immigration.

In the past, border security has been typically measured by fluctuations in the number of apprehensions, or arrests made by agents along the border. But advocates of tougher border enforcement say counting arrest totals do not effectively measure security because they do not quantify the number of migrants who succeed at getting in or successfully evade capture by returning to Mexico.

The new report attempts to take those factors into account by combining arrest totals (apprehensions) with the number of border crossers who are turned back (interdictions). It also includes the number of people considered got aways, who are individuals that U.S. agents observe making a successful illegal entry.

Falling numbers of would-be migrants mean there have been fewer suspects for agents to arrest. Last year the U.S. Border Patrol made about 20 arrests per officer, leaving many to go days or weeks without taking anyone into custody.

There are agents in El Paso who go a whole month without making a single arrest, said Adam Isacson, a border security expert at the Washington Office on Latin America, which advocates for migrant rights.

Nick Miroff is a Washington Post writer.
BART police released security images on Monday of a woman who allegedly tried to rob a fellow passenger with a threatening note over the weekend in San Francisco.

The suspect, who has not been identified, is seen wheeling a cart and wearing dark sunglasses on a Dublin-bound train on Saturday. She was described as white, in her 30s with strawberry blond hair, police said.

The woman allegedly passed the threatening note to 32-year-old Oakland resident Julie Dragland, who was sitting in front of her on the train as it headed through San Francisco from Daly City to the East Bay just before 5 p.m.

There are 2 guns pointed at you now, read the note, handwritten in red ink. If you want to live hand back your wallet + phone NOW + do not turn around and be descreet. Do not turn around until after you left Civic Center + you will live.

In an interview with The Chronicle on Sunday, Dragland described faking a seizure after receiving the note from the faceless stranger behind her.

The commotion got the attention of other passengers and prompted the would-be robber to flee the train at Civic Center Station.

ALSO Mystery mugger with note tries to rob woman on SF BART train

BART police scoured the station after Dragland called 911, but never located the suspect. Investigators later tracked down the train car the confrontation happened on and released still images of the suspect, seeking help from the public in finding her.

The security images were available after BART spent $1.42 million outfitting all of its cars with working cameras earlier this year.

The agency had used decoys on nearly 77 percent of its rail cars, but replaced them all with working cameras after The Chronicle exposed the fakes.

The cameras were already paying off before this latest incident. BART police identified and arrested two juvenile suspects in an April takeover robbery at Oaklands Coliseum Station that was first revealed by The Chronicle  one of several high-profile attacks on trains in recent months.

Anyone with information on the identity of the culprit can call BART police at (510) 464-7040.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
To many anglers across the Midwest, walleyes are king. Folks who fish like to catch walleyes. Walleyes are great on the table, and although some say a walleyes fight is sluggish, on proper walleye gear, marble-eyed fish represent themselves very well. They may not jump like a smallmouth bass, but the headshake and boatside thrashing will get most anglers attention. In most anglers book, thats a good thing.

In the past several years, the opportunity to catch big walleyes has improved. Progressive regulations have created outstanding walleye fisheries. If you do a little homework to find a lake that supports big walleyes, your chances for catching one are very good, and the autumn season is the best time to do so. Heres how.

Just as some bodies of water hold big fish and others are home to lots of fish, some areas within a body of water will be better for big fish. If youre on a spot that looks good but is only providing smaller fish, you should consider moving to another spot. It seems like big fish and smaller fish will usually hold in different areas, or they may use the same area but at different times. Every now and then you might catch a big one with the little guys, but usually big fish hang out with big fish.

If youre fishing deep water structure, keep in mind that the spot-on-the-spot will usually hold the biggest fish. For instance, a tiny corner on an underwater hump is perhaps where the big ones will be. Use your depth finder to locate those spots, then concentrate on them.

Use big baits. When the walleyes are deep, you cant beat a Fire-Ball jig or a live-bait rig with a redtail chub. A six-incher isnt too big: Go bigger if you can find them. Youll be increasing your chances for a lunker walleye if you use big bait.

If youre on a lake that has big walleyes working shallower areas like wind-blown rock piles, throw a Red-Eye Shad. This bait was designed for largemouth bass, but walleyes, especially the big ones, really like it. Its a rattling, sinking bait. Let it sink close to the bottom and then try a straight retrieve. If that doesnt do the trick, try ripping it. If walleyes are home, theyll eat this guy.

Finally, if a big walleye is high on your priority list, consider fishing at night. Deep, clear lakes often have populations of trophy walleyes that are most accessible when its dark. They are up in the shallows chasing fall spawning baitfish. These are big baitfish, and it takes a big walleye to eat them. Troll or cast crankbaits. A Strike King Lucky Shad weve discovered lately is as good as it gets when it comes to walleyes. Some anglers like to match the hatch, others like a bait that is a completely different color than what the walleyes are feeding on. Only by experimenting will you learn what they want.

The next few weeks will be a great opportunity to catch a truly big walleye. Take advantage of this opportunity.
David Price had a flawless return from a nearly two-month layoff.

The 2012 AL Cy Young Award winner pitched two hitless innings in relief for the Red Sox in a 3-2 loss to Tampa Bay on Sunday.

He was activated Thursday and pitched Sunday for the first time since July 22 after being sidelined by left elbow inflammation. He struck out two.

I felt good. I put up two zeroes in a one-run game. Its fun to get back out there, said Price, who had been sidelined by left-elbow inflammation. I felt good with the curveball, threw some really good cutters, a couple of good changeups. It was good.

The Red Sox aim to see whether he can get enough work to start in the playoffs.

Im amazed that someone who hasnt pitched in a game in nearly seven weeks would come out with that kind of command and throw three or four pitches for strikes, Boston manager John Farrell said.

Contreras serves ban: Cubs catcher Willson Contreras two-game suspension for his argument with umpire Jordan Baker was cut to one game, and he served the penalty Sunday.
The No. 1 job of the governor is to raise wages and improve the standard of living for all working people, Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Cathy Glasson told a nationwide audience of progressives over the weekend.

Im truly sick and tired of working people in our state getting beat up, Glasson, a Coralville nurse and president of Service Employees International Union Local 199, told members of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee on a conference call Sunday.

She was referring to the Republican governor and GOP-controlled Legislature that gutted union rights, lowered wages, took away health care services from womens health and went on to privatize a Medicaid system that had worked and gave contracts to their corporate friends.

Glasson has been talking to Iowans around the state as she considered formally entering the race for the Democratic nomination for governor. She said what she learned is that working Iowans want a bold, progressive governor who is not going to be a sellout to corporations and CEOs  someone who is not afraid to take on big challenges, make big plans and take bold, progressive steps.

Glasson participated in the PCCCs candidate training program over the summer. PCCC co-founder Adam Green called her a gut-level economic populist  (who) could end up being one of the top bold progressives running for governor this cycle.

More than just campaigning for governor, Glasson said shes building a bold, progressive movement so Iowans have a voice in government, and to give working people a reason to stand in line at the polls.

Iowans want Democrats who stand for big ideas, she said.

In fact, that to win an Iowa Democratic primary in 2018 and in 2020, candidates need to be a champion for big, bold populist economic ideas like Medicare-for-all, Glasson said. This is really about building a national movement across the country beyond 2018 and leading to the presidential cycle in 2020. Glasson said that as governor, her agenda would be raising the state minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 per hour, expanding union rights, passing universal, single-payer health care  on the state level if Congress wont enact a national Medicare-for-all plan  and making clean water the birthright of every Iowan.

She also wants to restore collective bargaining rights for teachers and other public employees. Glasson said she would demand the Republican-controlled Legislature, which increased K-12 funding by 1.11 percent  $40 million  this year, open the purse strings.

I would veto anything less than 4 percent school funding, she said. Thats what we used to do in the past, but now its not a priority anymore.

High state spending on schools is necessary to give teachers the pay raises they need so we can attract and retain quality educators.
WEST UNION -- Four Iowa motorcyclists were injured in a crash in Fayette County Saturday night.

The crash was reported about 7:45 p.m. on Highway 18 about two miles west of West Union.

The Fayette County Sheriff's Office said a group of motorcycles was westbound on Highway 18 when a deer entered the roadway from the left and ran into the front tire of a 2003 Harley-Davidson operated by Chad L. Brickman, 38, of Waterloo, and a passenger, April A. Washburn, 36, also of Waterloo.

The impact from the deer caused the motorcycle to veer into the path of a 2013 Harley-Davidson operated by Benjamin J. Tickal, 35, of Waterloo, and a passenger, Katherine A. Tickal, 35, of Waterloo.

Both drivers and passengers were thrown from the motorcycles and sustained critical injuries, and all were transported to Palmer Hospital in West Union.

Brickman and Washburn were later airlifted to Covenant Medical Center and UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital in Waterloo.

The Iowa State Patrol, West Union Police Department, Tri State Ambulance, Fayette Ambulance and West Union Fire Department provided assistance at the scene.

There was an estimated $7.500 damage to both motorcycles.
MASON CITY | In a stream of handwritten letters from his jail cell, a Mason City man accused of homicide claims his rights have been violated based on his race.

Larry Whaley has written four letters to Cerro Gordo County District Court Judge Christopher Foy since April, with three letters penned in August.

The letters echo some of the concerns raised in the dozen letters from March to April this year. Whaley has expressed concerns that his rights are being violated, his attorneys are lying to him, evidence is being withheld, his cell phone and car were stolen and that there was witness tampering in his case.

Couching (sic) witnesses. Or should I say tampering, he wrote April 23.

Whaley, 61, is accused of shooting 19-year-old Samantha Teeter on Dec. 2 through the door of his apartment at 116 17th St. S.E.

Police say Teeter, who was in the hallway, was hit once in the head. She died two days later.

Whaley has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder.

More recently Whaley wrote to the judge asking for his cell phone records, 911 call records, police reports and for a change of venue. He believes his constitutional rights are being violated and that he is experiencing discrimination based on race, according to the letters.

Dont black lives matter in this county, Whaley wrote on Aug. 6.

On Aug. 17, Whaley wrote, I feel discrimination based on my color, it is violating my constitutional rights.

In April, Whaley offered a plea in a letter dated April 13.

"I am willing to make a plea agreement," Whaley wrote. "Want to leave this county at once wit (sic) time serve (sic)."

Whaley claims that his previous public defender, Susan Flander, told him that he cannot get a fair trial in Cerro Gordo County.

Flander told the Globe Gazette she would not comment on whether or not she told or did not tell him that statement. She also said she would not comment on a case she removed herself from.

So why havent my new counsel ask for change of venue, Whaley asked in a letter on Aug 17.

Flander was allowed to resign as his attorney on April 13. In her request to withdraw, she cited a conflict of interest with a witness, as well as Whaley's repeated requests for a new attorney.

Foy appointed the State Public Defender's Special Defense Unit to take her place.

His current attorneys are Michael Adams and Jill Eimerman. Whaley said that since his new counsel was assigned, he had only met with Adams twice as of Aug. 17.

Adams didnt immediately respond to phone message or email left by the Globe Gazette Friday.

He repeats in several letters that he is an honorably discharged Marine.

Foy has issued several orders acknowledging receiving the letters.

Defendant appears to be repeating matters that he referenced in earlier letters, but it still is not clear to the Court exactly what relief or action Defendant is seeking, Foy said in an order referencing letters filed Aug. 7 and Aug. 9. Because Defendant is represented by counsel, the Court intends to take no further action on the issues or concerns described by Defendant in either of these letters unless and until they are properly made the subject of an appropriate motion or application filed by his current attorneys, Michael Adams and Jill Eimerman.

Foy made similar statements referencing other letters, including one filed Aug. 18.

His attorneys notified the court that Whaley plans to say he acted in defense of himself or others.

In a March 6 letter, he told the judge he fired into the door because he believed two people he knew were breaking into his apartment and that killing Teeter was an accident.

Whaley wrote that he bought handgun to protect himself.

A motion filed April 6, which was prosecutors resisted, said the pair had access to Whaley's apartment and vehicle the night Teeter was shot.

Whaley maintains that his car was given away without his consent, his phone is gone from property and that evidence is being withheld.

His is scheduled for 9 a.m. Nov. 13. Six days have been allotted for trial, according to court documents.

Whaley remains incarcerated at the Cerro Gordo County Jail on $500,000 bond.
GARNER | A permit for a confinement facility that will house thousands of hogs in southeastern Hancock County has been approved.

That comes after Gloria Goll of Klemme, who was joined by several others, asked the Hancock County Board of Supervisors to deny the permit Monday morning during a public hearing.

All these neighbors are concerned about their wells and their health, she said, on behalf of 11 residents who signed a letter outlining the reasons the county should deny the permit.

The public hearing was set after the county board received a construction permit application from DLH Enterprises VII LLC for a concentrated animal feeding operation, more commonly known as a CAFO, in Section 1 of Avery Township.

According to the application, DLH Enterprises VII plans on removing all existing swine confinement structures on the site and building three new shallow deep-pit swine confinement buildings to accommodate nearly 3,000 animal units  5,206 gestating swine, 1,002 farrowing swine, 40 boar swine and 1,250 swine gilts.

Its a newer building with a newer design and newer technology, said Noel Williams with Iowa Select Farms, noting better filtration for dust and odor control.

Iowa regulators reject new rules for hog confinements DES MOINES | Over loud protests, state regulators voted unanimously Monday to reject propose

Goll, who was the only resident to speak against the CAFO, presented the board with a list of nine reasons it should deny the permit, some of which included the presence of E. coli and iron in her well because of the amount of water the facility draws, manure management, the disposal of the buildings and the number of CAFOs within a 6-mile radius of her home.

Ten, people, 10, she said about the number of CAFOs in her neighborhood. Its enough. Deny this permit.

Williams said the company has 900 to 1,100 acres to apply the manure, so it wont be done on the 127 acres that are there.

Goll also voiced opposition for an on-site animal decomposition building that was included in the construction plan.

We dont need that in our neighborhood, she said.

Williams said because of that building, however, the LLC receives additional matrix points from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources because its a better source of animal removal.

State panel denies Cerro Gordo County appeal against Ventura hog confinement DES MOINES  Members of the state Environmental Commission voted 8-0 Tuesday to deny an appe

Although the county's zoning administrator Andy Buffington was unable to attend the meeting, he evaluated the proposal based on the state's master matrix, which is the required framework for scoring such applications.

The matrix scores applications based on separation distances from residences, churches, businesses and water sources. The type of manure and how it is stored and disposed also are among the factors considered.

They meet the requirements, said Supervisor Jerry Tlach.

But Goll continued to ask the county board to deny the request for the neighbors who demand a clean and safe environment, her letter stated, but the supervisors unanimously approved the project because of the master matrix rating.

We can (deny it), but itll go nowhere, said Board Chair Sis Greiman. Weve done it before, Gloria.

Greiman referenced a time when Tlach and herself denied a CAFO permit in the past but were overruled by the state, and there were more reasons to deny it.
DES MOINES | Over loud protests, state regulators voted unanimously Monday to reject proposed changes to rules governing large-scale livestock feeding operations in rural areas that advocates say are needed to protect Iowa's land, water and air but ag producers argue would hurt their industry.

Members of the state Environmental Protection Commission heard nearly two hours of impassioned pleas from both sides hoping to influence their decision on a petition filed by Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement and Food & Water Watch seeking to strengthen Iowa's master matrix -- a scoring system for confinement animal feeding operations used by the Iowa DNR in granting construction permits to applicants.

"Reading through the petition I found that it was going to be unfeasible and really unattainable for making any changes at this point," said EPC Chairman Chad Ingels of Randalia, noting a DNR analysis found it would be extremely difficult for applicants to score high enough to qualify for a permit under the proposal.

"I think everybody had a good chance to review a very extensive set of comments we received from the public on both sides of the issue and it was a pretty easy decision to make at this point, considering how far the petition went and really outside of what the Legislature wants us to do," he said.

In their petition, the groups asserted legislation created 15 years ago has failed to live up to the promise of giving communities a greater voice in the siting of "factory farms" and in protections from the environmental issues they create.

But farmers and commodity group representatives told regulators the changes sought effectively would impose a moratorium on new facilities -- which would lead to having fewer jobs, hurting the economy and putting some producers out of business.

"The matrix has really tied our hands," said Michael Carberry, a supervisor in Johnson County, one of 17 counties that have asked the state for more local control and revisions to strengthen regulations. "I'm here to ask you to do your job so I can do mine."

Mark Kuhn, a Floyd County supervisor and former state lawmaker who helped draft the master matrix language in 2002, said the state law is outdated and has become "an easy litmus test to pass" for applicants seeking to build large livestock feeding operations. "It's been 15 years since we've addressed this issue," he said. "It's time."

Al Wulfekuhle, a past president of the Iowa Pork Producers from Quasqueton, said the current rules are working and most livestock producers in Iowa are trying to do the right thing in being responsible stewards of their resources.

"The petition would put a moratorium on hog production the way it is written," he said, which draw cheers from some of the meeting attendees.

Brianne Streck of Moville testified she and her husband "work hard to raise livestock the right way," but supporters of the petition "would like to make you think that I am the face of evil."

She said changes envisioned in the petition would "give others the ability to pick and choose where and how we can raise livestock," which she said would hurt young farmers and rural communities.

"We don't want to go back to horses, candles and ice boxes," said Randy Dreher, an Audubon farmer who raises cattle and row crops, in opposing the changes envisioned in the petition.

North Iowa pig equipment dealer: CAFO foes overreacting LAKE MILLS | Tony Nelson knows a thing or two about environmental issues.

DNR attorneys recommended the commission turn down the request because it would go beyond the legislative intent of laws designed to balance the needs of the livestock industry with the health and safety of citizens. The department argued, and the commission agreed, that any major changes in the way livestock facilities are regulated in Iowa would have to come from the Legislature and be signed by the governor.

"The master matrix is the result of legislation so it's going to require the Legislature to go back and look at that. We cannot exceed the authority of the statute by rule," DNR Director Chuck Gipp said.

EPC Commissioner Barbara Hovland of Mason City agreed that it's up to legislators.

"I am a firm believer that they created it and they need to start discussing it," she said.

However, Ocheyedan independent Sen. David Johnson told the commission the master matrix provisions he helped create in 2002 are no longer working.

"The Iowa Legislature is also failing in its role of oversight in all things agricultural," he said. "The matrix has become a rubber stamp."

Mitchell County Supervisors take stand on master matrix OSAGE | At the Tuesday, July 18 meeting of the Mitchell County Board of Supervisors, members

At the start of the meeting, Ingels cautioned the more than 100 people in attendance to "please refrain from creating havoc" during the meeting, but the room exploded into chants of opposition once the commission rejected the petition.

Citizens for Community Improvement member Rosie Partridge of Sac City said she felt betrayed by the vote.

"It is clear that the DNR and the EPC lack the political will to stand up to the factory farm industry and make these much-needed improvements for thousands of Iowans. Shame on them," she said. "This is not over. We will keep fighting."

Animal feeding operation approval system needs update, Floyd County official says DES MOINES  Various issues with a state program designed to ensure the biggest animal feedi
LONDON  The two suspects detained over last weeks London subway bombing are an 18-year-old refugee from Iraq and a 21-year old from Syria, both of whom were fostered by a British couple, according to a local official and media reports.

The 18-year-old was detained Saturday at the southeastern port of Dover, a departure point for ferries to France. The 21-year-old was held later the same day in Hounslow in west London. Photos published by the Sun newspaper showed a man being detained outside a fast-food restaurant in Hounslow, which was searched by police.

Both men are being held under the Terrorism Act and are being questioned at a London police station about Fridays attack. Neither has been charged.

Thirty people were injured when an improvised explosive device partly exploded aboard a crowded London Underground train at Parsons Green station during the morning rush hour. None of the injuries was life-threatening, and experts said it appears the main charge of the bomb didnt detonate.

After the rush-hour bombing, British officials raised the countrys terror threat level to the highest level, critical, meaning an attack may be imminent. They lowered it Sunday to severe, and police said the investigation was making rapid progress.

Police searched three addresses, including the house in suburban Sunbury, outside London, of Penelope and Ronald Jones. The couple has been honored by Queen Elizabeth II for fostering more than 200 children, including refugees from Middle Eastern conflicts.

Ian Harvey, who heads the local Spelthorne Borough Council, said he believed the 18-year-old was an Iraqi orphan who moved to Britain when he was 15 after his parents died and had lived in the Sunbury house.

He said the 21-year-old was also a former foster child of the Joneses. Sky News and other British media named him as Yahyah Farroukh, who is originally from Syria.

West Thames College in west London said in a statement that Yahyah Farroukh, who, according to media reports is the second suspect detained in connection with the Parsons Green incident, was a former student at the college from December 2013 to June 2015. It said he began attending courses when he was 17 to learn English.

Suleman Sarwar, co-owner of Aladdins Fried Chicken in Hounslow, said Farroukh worked there and was arrested by police Saturday night at the end of his shift.

Commuters returned to Parsons Green station Monday for the first morning rush hour since the bombing. Police asked the traveling public to be vigilant and said there would be more armed police on the transit network for the time being.

Jill Lawless is an Associated Press writer.
UNITED NATIONS  President Trump opened his first visit to the United Nations on Monday since taking office with a polite but firm call for the 72-year-old institution to overhaul itself and a veiled threat to pull out of the Iran nuclear agreement.

In a meeting with counterparts from around the world, Trump said the U.N. had grown too bureaucratic and ineffective and should reorient its approach. He complained that spending and staff at the U.N. had grown enormously over the years but that we are not seeing the results in line with this investment.

Thats why we commend the secretary-general and his call for the United Nations to focus more on people and less on bureaucracy, Trump said, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sitting beside him.

He added that any reform should ensure that no single member shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden, and thats militarily or financially, a sore point for many American conservatives who bristle at the share of U.N. costs borne by the United States.

Trump later met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, in the first of a string of sessions he will conduct with counterparts during four days in New York, and used the occasion to once again hint that he could pull out of the Iran deal negotiated by President Barack Obama. Netanyahu planned to press Trump to either revise the agreement or scrap it. Asked by reporters whether he would withdraw, Trump said, Youll see very soon.

The president has until mid-October to certify whether Iran is complying with the deal, a certification he has grudgingly made twice already this year but that he has told advisers he does not want to make again.

The presidents comments to the U.N. meeting included none of the bombast he had directed at foreign institutions in the past. As recently as December, Trump dismissed the U.N. as just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time.

Trumps main message to the visiting heads of state and government will come Tuesday when he addresses the opening session of the U.N. General Assembly. Aides have said he will stress sovereignty and accountability, a contrast to his predecessors, who used the annual occasion to rally joint action on issues like terrorism, weapons proliferation and climate change.

Peter Baker and Somini Sengupta are New York Times writers.
SEOUL, South Korea  The U.S. military flew advanced bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula and near Japan in drills with South Korean and Japanese warplanes on Monday, three days after North Korea fired a missile over Japan.

The United States often sends powerful military aircraft in a show of force in times of heightened animosities with North Korea. The North launched its latest missile as it protested against tough new U.N. sanctions over its sixth nuclear test on Sept. 3.

Mondays flights over the Korean Peninsula involved two B-1Bs and four F-35Bs from the U.S. military and four F-15K fighter jets from South Korea, according to the South Korean and U.S. militaries. The U.S. and South Korean planes practiced attacks by releasing live weapons at a firing range in South Korea, the U.S. Pacific Command said in a statement.

The U.S. warplanes also conducted formation training with Japanese fighter jets over waters near the southern island of Kyushu, according to the Pacific Command.

Since Kim Jong Un took power in North Korea in late 2011, his nation has tested weapons at a torrid pace. The country flight-tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles in July. Its nuclear test in September was its most powerful to date.

Many experts say its only a matter of time until Kim achieves his stated objective of possessing reliable nuclear-tipped missiles capable of striking anywhere in the mainland U.S.

State media on Saturday quoted Kim as saying that North Koreas final goal is to establish the equilibrium of real force with the U.S. and make the U.S. rulers dare not talk about military option for the North.

Alarmed by North Koreas advancing weapons programs, many conservatives in South Korea have called for the reintroduction of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons in the South. But the liberal-leaning government of President Moon Jae-in said it has no intention of requesting that the U.S. bring back such weapons.

South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo told lawmakers on Monday that it is not proper to reintroduce U.S. nuclear weapons. He previously said the idea should be deeply considered by the allies, inflaming already-heated debate on the issue.

Meanwhile, Chinas Communist Party newspaper on Monday criticized the United States for demanding that Beijing put more pressure on North Korea to rein in its weapons programs.

The so-called Chinas responsibility theory is essentially moral kidnapping, the Peoples Daily said in a commentary. It also noted that sanctions should not harm legitimate economic and trade exchanges between North Korea and the outside world and the lives of everyday people.

China accounts for about 90 percent of North Koreas trade and sends largely free crude oil shipments to the North. Beijing has been increasingly frustrated with North Koreas nuclear drive, but it still doesnt want the North to collapse and cause a wave of refugees to cross the border into China and American troops to move into North Korea.

Chinas foreign ministry said Monday that military threats being made by North Korea and the U.S. were counterproductive.

Hyung-Jin Kim is an Associated Press writer.
Zinke's monument changes

The Washington Post has a copy of US Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke's secret memo written after his review of newly designated national monuments. While it appears permitted activities at New Mexico's Rio Grande del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks monuments will change, the boundaries of the two may stay the same. The report also indicates Zinke recommends greater tribal involvement in monument management.

Suicide rates drop

Incidence of those taking their own life dropped six percent last year, reversing a trend in which New Mexico's suicide rates had been increasing. The state still has high rates of suicide by military veterans.



Watching your step

Most pedestrian deaths around town are due to mistakes on the part of people walking, the New Mexican reported this weekend. The city is coming off a year in which there was just a single pedestrian killed on Santa Fe's roads, but four people have died already this year. Alcohol is a frequent culprit, especially with the pedestrians themselves.



KRQE pilot dies in helicopter crash

Bob Martin, a longtime reporter at KRQE-TV and the pilot of the station's helicopter, died Saturday evening when the aircraft crashed near Carrizozo in Lincoln County. Martin had been a fixture in the station's helicopter for more than 20 years as well as being an accomplished reporter and photographer. The NTSB is investigating and so far has not released a cause of the crash. Our thoughts are with everyone at KRQE.

Tackling taxes

One of the biggest unresolved issues from the Legislature's last special session was gross receipts tax reform. Lawmakers will be at it again in 2018. New Mexico's system for what equates roughly to sales tax is constructed to leverage the federal influence here by taxing contracts with the US government for services that wouldn't normally be nicked under a sales tax. But that means a ton of carve-outs for various industries as the Legislature has looked to keep the state's taxes from reaching onerous levels.



You decide

The oh-so-quiet special election to raise money for county public safety personnel as well as a behavioral health triage center in Santa Fe city limits is tomorrow. The one-question ballot asks county voters to approve or reject a proposed one-sixteenth percent tax on goods or services sold within county limits. It would add $2.3 million to the county budget and would be paired with a one-eighth percent increase county commissioners were allowed to authorize on their own.



Gone with the winds

Down in Albuquerque, the KiMo Theater canceled a scheduled showing of the classic movie Gone with the Wind because of concerns it was too sympathetic to the Confederacy. Instead, the theater showed Ben Hur, which was based on the novel penned by New Mexico territorial governor Lew Wallace.



Autumn

It starts this week, all you equinox-loving folks. And the weather seems like it may be appropriate. It's going to be pretty average today and kind of windy on Tuesday as we build into a chance of storms in the latter half of the week.



Thanks for reading! The Word wonders if there's a toxicity level for pumpkin.



Subscribe to the Morning Word at sfreporter.com/santafe/signup.

Santa Fe Reporter
Westland Milk Products shareholders are to vote on shrinking the board and improving selection processes after criticism that followed the cooperative's $14.5 million loss last year.

Shareholders will vote on Oct. 5 on a series of measures including reducing the board to eight from 11, with a corresponding drop in shareholder-elected directors to five from eight. They will also be asked to approve measures to create a 'pipeline' of future directors and a more transparent process for the board to appoint the independent directors.

Westland reported a net loss of $14.5 million in the 12 months ended July 31, 2016, as its gross margin fell by about 17 percent and expenses rose. Its payout for the 2015-16 season of $3.88 per kilogram of milk solids was the lowest of any New Zealand dairy company payout. At the time, former chair Matt O'Regan blamed the poor result on a strong kiwi dollar, weak prices and a higher cost structure necessary to support the company's value-added strategies and lower-than-forecast sales of those products.

Current chair Pete Morrison said the proposals follow an extensive governance review of the company that was sought by shareholders at last years annual meeting following criticism of the then board for its performance. The 'Westland Governance Review' was accepted by the current board at a meeting last month and now needed to be ratified by shareholders, he said in a statement.

The proposals have some of the elements of Fonterra Cooperative Group's governance review that resulted in a plan to reduce its board to nine from 13. While a majority of Fonterra's farmer-shareholders supported a proposal to shrink the board at the 2015 annual meeting the vote fell short of the 75 percent. Fonterra is New Zealand's biggest business, with revenue of $17.2 billion in 2016. Westland's 2016 sales were $588 million.

(BusinessDesk)

Comments from our readers

No comments yet

Add your comment:

Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process.

Related News:

RAK 1H23 Results Business Update Webcast & Teleconference

AoFrio appoints new Vice President of Product

HFL - Annual report for the year ended 31 August 2022

Rob Buchanan resigns from Manawa Energy

Channel Infrastructure announces change in CEO

AIA Provision of Financial Assistance - Employee Share Plan

THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger

TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability

November 14th Morning Report

The Warehouse Group FY23 First Quarter Sales Update


The New Zealand dollar gained as investors became more sanguine about the outcome of Saturday's election, regardless of who wins and as risk appetite improved in Asia.

The kiwi traded at 73.12 US cents at 5pm in Wellington from 72.80 US cents at the start of the day and from 72.88 cents in New York on Friday. The trade-weighted index was at 76.08 from 75.91 on Friday.

Investors had sold down kiwi on pre-election jitters after the polls showed a very close race. Some of those nerves, however, look to have abated after the Labour Party said it would implement no tax reforms recommended by a working group before the 2020 election.

"The market was a bit short kiwi with all the uncertainty around the election" but after the announcement that nothing is going to happen for three years markets are less rattled by the idea of a change in government, said Martin Rudings, a senior dealer at OMF. "There is less risk in this election now on a Labour victory than what there was a few days ago," he said.

Against that backdrop, "the kiwi could have more on the topside," he said although "the market doesn't feel stable across the board."

Across Asia, investors appeared to be relieved the weekend passed with no new provocation by North Korea, which also helped shore up the kiwi. However, "I am not sure that the North Korean thing has died down much," said Rudings. Markets will be keeping a close watch on the UN General Assembly this week, in particular as US President Donald Trump is slated to address the body for the first time. Trump is expected to seek support for tough measures against North Korea.

The US Federal Reserves' policy meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday will also remain firmly in focus. "That's probably what's going to dominate. I don't think anyone is going to charge off and take things on a massive run ahead of that," he said.

The Kiwi was trading at 53.80 British pence from 53.65 pence on Friday in New York and at 91.10 Australian cents from 91.07 cents. It traded at 61.23 euro cents versus 61 euro cents and at 81.27 yen from 80.79 yen. It was at 4.7872 yuan from 4.7736 yuan.

The two-year swap rate rose 3 basis point to 2.22 percent while 10-year swaps rose 6 basis points to 3.23 percent.

(BusinessDesk)

Comments from our readers

No comments yet

Add your comment:

Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process.

Related News:

RAK 1H23 Results Business Update Webcast & Teleconference

AoFrio appoints new Vice President of Product

HFL - Annual report for the year ended 31 August 2022

Rob Buchanan resigns from Manawa Energy

Channel Infrastructure announces change in CEO

AIA Provision of Financial Assistance - Employee Share Plan

THL - Apollo shareholders approve merger

TWL - TradeWindow and EMA partner-up to build export capability

November 14th Morning Report

The Warehouse Group FY23 First Quarter Sales Update


MASON CITY | The City Council is expected to approve two actions Tuesday night that set the stage for public votes in November related to the River City Renaissance downtown improvement project.

Eight months ago, the council considered going into a lease agreement with Southbridge Mall involving issuance of bonds not to exceed $18 million.

The bonds would facilitate construction of the ice arena/multipurpose center in the area formerly occupied by the J.C. Penney store.

Residents submitted enough petitions to require the city to put the lease agreement to a public vote.

Public hearing, vote is Oct. 17 on downtown Mason City hotel MASON CITY | A public hearing will be held Oct. 17 on a development agreement with Gatehouse

The arena is one piece of the $38 million River City Renaissance project that also includes a Hyatt Place hotel, renovation of The Music Man Square and a new music pavilion.

The city has applied for $10 million in state funding through the Iowa Reinvestment Act and has been pre-approved for $7.1 million.

City officials delayed putting the lease agreement proposal on the ballot immediately, waiting instead until most of the other pieces of the overall plan were in place -- saying there would be no need for the vote if the overall project became dead.

The council will now vote on resolutions related to formally calling for the Nov. 7 public vote on the lease agreement.

That's the same date on which voters will be asked to consider the issuance of general obligation urban renewal bonds, not to exceed $14 million, for costs associated with:

 Acquisition, construction and equipping the music pavilion.

 Construction of the skywalk that will connect the hotel with The Music Man Square.

 Other related costs.

An unusual aspect of the bond issue proposal is that both supporters and opponents have publicly stated they want it put to a public vote.

City Administrator Brent Trout said the council has two options Tuesday night on both proposed ballot issues.

"They can vote to abandon the proposals, or they can vote to place them on the election ballot," he said.

Abandoning the proposals is tantamount to killing the project, he said.

Tuesday's vote is important because there is a Thursday deadline for getting items on the Nov. 7 ballot.

Also on the ballot will be candidates for mayor, Second Ward, Fourth Ward and At-large council positions. The deadline for filing for those offices is Thursday.
Robert Gsellman didn't allow an earned run over seven innings, pinch-hitter Asdrubal Cabrera had a two-run, pinch-hit homer as the New York Mets beat the Atlanta Braves, 5-1, Sunday.

Atlanta (67-81) was eliminated from postseason contention and must win its remaining 14 games to avoid a losing record in four straight seasons.

Gsellman (7-7) scattered three hits and struck out three for his best outing since June 10, when he pitched 6 2/3 scoreless innings to beat Atlanta.

Julio Teheran (11-12), who had won his previous four starts, allowed two runs, three hits and four walks in six innings.

Despite winning the last two games of the series, the Mets have lost 14 of their last 20 road games.

New York took a 2-0 lead in the first when Jose Reyes hit an RBI triple and scored on Amed Rosario's grounded out. Phil Evans, who made his major league debut Sept. 8, hit a run-scoring double in the ninth for his first big league RBI and Cabrera followed with his 13th homer.

Rosario made a pair of errors in the seventh. He bobbled and then dropped Johan Camargo's one-out grounder to shortstop when pulling the ball out of his glove, then three pitches later let Dansby Swanson's potential double-play ground bounce under his glove. Jace Peterson followed with an RBI grounder to second, and Kurt Suzuki popped out.

Norichika Aoki had three hits, including a triple, and has reached safely in 18 straight games dating to Aug. 20. Reyes is hitting .341 with 14 RBIs and 22 runs scored over his last 21 games since Aug. 13.

Mets closer A.J. Ramos had a shaky outing in a non-save situation for the second straight day, allowing a hit and a walk before Suzuki's game-ending grounder.

CLOSE CALL

Teheran fell to his rear after catching Juan Lagares' hard liner to end the sixth after snagged a drive toward his face. He pointed to the sky and walked slowly to the dugout. Teheran was lifted for reliever Sam Freeman to begin the seventh.

TRAINER'S ROOM

Mets: RHP Noah Syndergaard still doesn't know whether he will pitch again for the Mets this season. The 2016 All-Star has been sidelined since tearing a lat muscle in April, and the team had hoped he could pitch this weekend. But after a medical examination on Saturday, Syndergaard was told that he will pitch in a simulated game before the team decides whether he will face Washington this weekend at Citi Field.

Braves: LF Matt Kemp missed his second straight game with recurring hamstring soreness. Kemp will be reevaluated Tuesday. He is hitting .184 with four homers and 11 RBIs in 13 games this month.

UP NEXT

Mets: RHP Matt Harvey (5-5, 6.14 ERA) starts Monday at Miami. He has lost two of three starts this month with a 12.19 ERA and 20 hits allowed.

Braves: RHP Luis Gohara (1-1, 6.30 ERA) is to make his third big league start Tuesday at home against the Nationals. He won at 8-2 last Wednesday at Washington.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A ride on the city bus was interrupted by a knifepoint robbery earlier this month, as bystanders were held at bay with a BB gun, authorities say.

Police responded at about 9:45 p.m. on Sept. 8 for a report of an armed robbery on an S79 on Arthur Kill Road in Greenridge. Within a couple hours, two men were arrested on Drumgoole Road East in connection with the incident.

Jonattan Rios, 19, of the 200 block of Park Hill Avenue in Clifton, faces charges that include robbery, criminal trespass, criminal possession of a weapon and possession of stolen property, according to court documents.

Didier Acevedo, 19, of Bond Street in Port Richmond, faces charges that include robbery, criminal possession of a weapon and possession of stolen property.

Acevedo told police they caught the bus near the Staten Island Mall, because Rios was "trying to catch a robbery, to take someone's phone," according to allegations in the criminal complaint.

Police said Rios brandished a knife and took a rider's cell phone on Arthur Kill Road, then, as four or five male bystanders approached him, Acevedo pulled out the BB gun to keep them back, police said.

The suspects fled on foot, crossing through a fenced property on Brandis Lane where a complainant was threatened by Rios, who told them: "Shut up b****, I'll shoot you," the criminal complaint alleges.

Acevedo told police he dropped the BB gun and a hoodie in a bush behind the transit station near 890 Arthur Kill Road, which is where police later recovered the weapon, according to court records.

Criminal Court Judge William E. Garnett set bail at $15,000 bond, or $10,000 cash for Acevedo, and $20,000 bond or $15,000 cash for Rios.

Both defendants are due back in court Sept. 26.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It was the other guy.

That was the substance Monday of the testimony of an ex-convict accused, along with an accomplice, of robbing a priest at gunpoint, stealing the victim's car and other items and knocking him out with a punch to the face.

"I don't rob nobody," Antwyne Lucas, 45, of Brooklyn, testified in state Supreme Court, St. George. "I didn't know Mr. Pack was going to do what he did."

Lucas said Kerry Pack, 41, put a gun to the stomach of the Rev. Marc Roselli outside the rectory door at St. Mary of the Assumption-Our Lady of Mount Carmel-St. Benedicta R.C. Church in West Brighton around 5:15 a.m. on June 2, 2016, and demanded the priest's personal items, including his car keys.

Despite the Roman Catholic priest turning over those articles, Pack punched the victim, knocking him to the ground, said Lucas.

'WHY DID YOU DO WHAT YOU DID?'

"I asked him, 'Why did you do what you did?'" Lucas testified.

At a lineup at the 120th Precinct stationhouse later that night, Father Roselli, who briefly lost consciousness after being punched, identified the man with the gun. Prosecutors maintain that man is Lucas.

The 62-year-old priest, however, could not identify Lucas in court last week as his assailant.

In a bid to discredit Lucas, Assistant District Attorney Adam Silberlight asked the defendant, if, despite his testimony, he actually had robbed someone before.

Lucas admitted to previously being convicted in Queens in 1995 of a robbery which involved other people.

But he denied mugging the priest and also denied telling Pack's girlfriend that he, Lucas, "did something stupid by robbing a white guy."

The stocky, goateed defendant was garbed in a plaid shirt and dark trousers.

He testified for just under 40 minutes, most of it under cross-examination. His direct testimony lasted only about seven minutes.

Lucas said he and Pack were out taking a walk when they saw the priest park his car outside the church and walk up the front steps.

The defendant said Pack just had an argument with his girlfriend, and he took his buddy outside to try to cool him off.

Father Roselli testified the two men hemmed him in as he tried to open the rectory door.

'TO PANHANDLE FOR SOME MONEY'

Lucas said they did not surround the priest, rather, he had approached Father Roselli with the intention of asking him for a cigarette and "to panhandle for some money."

But things suddenly went bad when Pack whipped out a gun, held it against the priest, then attacked him, said the defendant.

Lucas said he didn't know Pack had a gun and didn't know his pal was going to rob the priest.

Afterward, the defendant said Pack waved the gun at him and told him to get into the priest's car. He said he was scared of Pack - "I thought he was going to shoot me" - and got in the auto.

Lucas said they argued over what happened, and drove a few blocks before Pack pulled over and they exited. Pack began discarding the personal items stolen from the victim and his car as they walked a few blocks through a park over to an abandoned house, said Lucas.

Surveillance video tape obtained just before the mugging shows Lucas wearing a plaid shirt and Pack a white T-shirt. Father Roselli testified his assailant was wearing a white T-shirt.

However, video taken of the two men after they abandoned the car shows both wearing white T-shirts. Lucas testified Pack told him to remove his outer shirt.

PROSECUTORS TRY TO LINK TO GUN

In his cross-examination, Silberlight, the prosecutor, sought to link Lucas to the gun.

He asked the defendant if he referred to the gun as "my b----," and if he had said "I'm going to stash my b---- on the second floor," while he, Pack and Pack's girlfriend were inside the abandoned house.

"I never had no gun," said Lucas.

Both sides rested at the end of Lucas' testimony.

Pack, of West Brighton, previously pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree robbery and was sentenced earlier this year, as a persistent violent felon, to 12 years to life in prison.

Summations are scheduled for Tuesday. Justice Mario F. Mattei told jurors they may began deliberations later in the day after he charges them on the law.

Lucas is charged with first-, second and third-degree robbery, grand larceny and other crimes.

Mark J. Fonte represents Lucas.

Assistant District Attorney Michael Tannousis is also prosecuting the case.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- CitySightseeing New York and Empire Outlets have teamed up to launch a new cruise stop in St. George with hopes of luring thousands of tourists per day to New York City's first outlet center, which is slated to open in the Spring.

The partnership announced on Monday will result in a new St. George stop on a CitySightseeing New York Hop-on, Hop-off Cruise loop.

"This partnership between CitySightseeing New York and Empire Outlets is a huge win for shoppers, tourists, businesses and the future of Staten Island's revitalized North Shore," said Joseph Ferrara, principal of BFC Partners, the developer of Empire Outlets.

"As we get even closer to opening New York City's first and only premium outlet center, the new St. George cruise stop is just another reminder that when visitors come to Empire Outlets, they will go where New York is going," he added.

Expected to go into service following Empire Outlets' opening, the St. George stop will be added to CitySightseeing New York Hop-on, Hop-off cruise route that stops at Pier 78 [West 38th Street], the World Financial Center, Pier 11 [Wall Street] and DUMBO, Brooklyn.

It is unclear how much a trip on the cruise will cost or where the exact stop will be located.

As part of its agreement with Empire Outlets and the New York Wheel, CitySightseeing New York will promote the new St. George cruise stop in its tourist packages and marketing materials, which are provided at concierge desks in major Manhattan hotels and at iconic landmarks.

The new route will also be advertised on CitySightseeing New York's double-decker tour buses that cater to millions of tourists who visit the city each year.

These Hop-on, Hop-off cruises carry more than 650,000 passengers each year, the vast majority of whom are tourists visiting New York City, according to a statement by Empire Outlets.

"It's an incredible opportunity to partner with Empire Outlets connecting Manhattan and Staten Island," says Mark Marmurstein, president and CEO of CitySightseeing New York. "We look forward to bringing both tourists and locals alike who love to shop to this exciting new destination."

TOURISTS' SURVEYED

A survey conducted by CitySightseeing New York revealed that more than 80 percent of customers polled would be interested in utilizing a hop-off stop on Staten Island to go shopping and visit destinations, like Empire Outlets and the New York Wheel.

CitySightseeing New York and Empire Outlets said they will release more details about the new St. George cruise stop and its arrival/departure schedules in the coming months.

"The addition of the Hop-on, Hop-off cruise stop in Staten Island is a great example of the continued growth that the North Shore is experiencing, with convenient connections from Manhattan and Brooklyn making it even easier for tourists and shoppers to visit," said Joel Ward, general manager of the New York Wheel, a project that has been indefinitely delayed after the developer fired its hired contractor in July.

Without an opening date or new contractor yet on board, it's very possible the new cruise stop will be functioning long before the NY Wheel construction is complete. Currently, the Wheel developer is planning to hire the builder of the Las Vegas High Roller, but a contract has yet to be signed.

LEASES SIGNED

Located adjacent to the St. George Ferry Terminal, Empire Outlets will feature more than 100 designer outlet retailers, a boutique hotel with a rooftop venue and a 1,250-space parking garage.

With 70 percent of the outlets already spoken for, the most recent lease signed with the Empire Outlets was Wasabi Steak & Sushi. That restaurant will join Empire Outlets' diverse group of dining options, including Shake Shack, Two Boots Pizza, Mighty Quinn's Barbeque, Nathan's Famous and MRKTPL -- a 12,723-square-foot artisanal food hall with a 3,000-square-foot outdoor dining space and more than 30 food concepts.

Major retailers coming to the center include: Nordstrom Rack, H&M, Ghirardelli Chocolate, Francesca's, Starbucks, U.S. Polo, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic Factory Store, White House Black Market, Columbia Sportswear Company, Guess Factory Store, Wilsons Leather, G.H. Bass & Co., Lids, Obey Your Body, Innovation Luggage, Walgreens, Haagen Dazs, and Krispy Kreme.

FOLLOW TRACEY PORPORA ON FACEBOOK
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Bronx teen who badly stabbed a victim on a New Brighton street four months ago won't be going home for a while.

Isaiah Marcus, 17, has pleaded guilty in state Supreme Court, St. George, to attempted first-degree assault stemming from the May 18 incident.

According to a criminal complaint, the defendant slashed a victim with a sharp object outside 418 Jersey St. around 3 p.m.

The wounds caused internal bleeding and other injuries, said the complaint.

Marcus was arrested the next morning.

In exchange for his plea, Marcus will be sentenced Oct. 2 to 42 months in prison and 30 months' post-release supervision. He is being held without bail.

"He has remorse over the incident," said Joshua Benjamin, Marcus' lawyer. "He intends on finishing his high school coursework and learning a trade or beginning college coursework while in prison. He has the support of a wonderful family who make every court date and stand by Isaiah through this difficult time."
After reports surfaced that Michael Pulizotto, Principal Clerk of the state Supreme Court on Staten Island, had been secretly recording conversations inside the St. George courthouse for two years, the many lawyers with whom I spoke expressed profound concern over its implications and animated outrage at his gall.

On Friday, the Richmond County Bar Association amplified the legal community's chorus of condemnation, declaring that it's "greatly disturbed" by the covert recordings. "The courthouse should be a place where attorneys, court staff and the Judiciary are able to frankly discuss what may be sensitive matters without the fear of having conversations repeated, perhaps out of context," the press release read. The local bar association asserted that the secret recordings strike at the heart of a lawyer's professional responsibilities because "the ability to speak freely" is essential to effective advocacy. It also expressed concern over speculation that the Office of Court Administration may have either condoned or even encouraged the recordings, something which, if true, would set "a dangerous precedent."

Section 29.1 of the Rules of the Chief Judge expressly prohibit audio recordings of any kind in New York State Courthouses. The prohibition is operative at all times, and in every square inch of the courthouse, whether or not court is in session.

Limited exception

The sole exception is for instances where permission has been obtained from the Chief Administrator of the Courts, or his or her designee. That can only be procured, however, if multiple terms and conditions are met, including any special requirements that may be necessary given the nature of the contemplated recording. Of paramount concern in granting permission is that it doesn't adversely affect anybody's purpose for being in the courthouse.

To posit that Pulizotto, by virtue of his title, could have given himself permission to make those recordings would constitute an absurd interpretation of the Chief Judge's rules. Similarly, the regulations can't reasonably be read as supporting carte blanche authority for anybody to turn a state courthouse into his own secret private recording studio for even two seconds, much less two years.

It may never be known how many recordings Pulizotto actually made, how many still exist, and where they all are. That makes what he did even more intolerable and alarming. According to press reports, Pulizotto felt himself aggrieved by Supreme Court Justice Judith McMahon, who, he claims, was emotionally and verbally abusive to him in her role as Administrative Judge for the Civil Part of the local Supreme Court. He further asserts that she threatened his job status and made discriminatory remarks about him in the presence of others.

Personal animus

It should be noted, however, that Justice McMahon enjoys wide-spread support among local lawyers, a fact reflected by last week's statement from the Richmond County Bar Association singling out both her and Justice Stephen Rooney for special praise for being an integral part of the "finest collection of judges" in New York City.

If Pulizotto was driven by personal animus to target Justice McMahon, he could have easily memorialized those recordings tending to support his agenda, while simply discarding many more that didn't. This capacity to produce a body of highly selective material undermines the credibility of whatever recordings actually were turned over to OCA, thereby rendering them of little to no probative value.

What makes the clandestine recordings especially dangerous is that Pulizotto, by virtue of being the Principal Clerk, had unfettered access to any place in the courthouse. His presence would likely attract no more than a passing glance simply because he had a right to be there and his trustworthiness was taken for granted.

Highly-sensitive conversations

Highly-sensitive conversations, many of them legally privileged by statute or case law, take place in the St. George Courthouse every day and at any given time. They may involve court security and the implementation of new, innovative measures to enhance everybody's safety in these especially perilous times. They may entail a review of confidential mental health assessments of parties and children in a custody dispute, or of a person sought to be declared incompetent.

Maybe a criminal defense attorney is discussing trial strategy or a last-minute plea offer with his or her client in a case marked ready for jury selection. It could even be just off-the-record settlement offers and counter-offers in a personal injury suit. In none of these cases, nor in myriad others, should participants have to worry that what they're saying might be secretly recorded and revealed to others.

The only solution to this mess is the destruction of all the recordings made by Pulizotto. Not only shouldn't they have been made in the first place, but their continuing existence has the potential to adversely affect anybody and everybody in the courthouse when they were made. That's intolerable by any measure of fairness.
Page Content

On Sunday morning, the Prime Minister of Dominica, the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit paid a brief courtesy visit to the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the Honouorable William Marlin.





The Dominica Prime Minister said that he had to come personally to express sympathies to the government and people of Sint Maarten, because of the longstanding bond and friend ship with Sint Maarten.





The Prime Minister expressed the willingness of his government to assist with water, dry goods and some time next week, a shipment of provisions, plantains and avocados will also be sent.





Sint Maartens Prime Minister gave a brief overview on the damage sustained and explained some of what was done already and what is still ongoing. He then thanked the Dominica Prime Minister on behalf of the government and people of Sint Maarten.





On Sunday morning Prime Minister Marlin also received a courtesy visit from the Chinese Consul general stationed in Curacao.





The Consul said he immediately got approval to cut short his vacation in order to come to Sint Maarten to see firsthand the damage that was caused by Hurricane Irma.





He expressed sympathies to the people and government of Sint Maarten on behalf of the Chinese government.





He said that he had briefly met with a group of Chinese business people on the island and they all expressed that they will stay on the island and contribute to the rebuilding.





About 28 Chinese citizens, among them several expecting mothers and newborns left the island for a short period.




Iowa has cut nearly 11 percent of the state's executive branch workforce since Gov. Terry Branstad was reelected in 2011. This has meant the loss of about 1,000 human services workers, the closings of two state institutions for people with mental illness, injured prison guards, the shuttering of dozens of unemployment offices, and as few as five state troopers on duty overnight to patrol the entire state.

But in the apparent quest for even smaller government, Gov. Kim Reynolds wants to make it harder for the state to attract and retain the employees who provide services to Iowans.

How else does one explain recent moves that include increases to health insurance premiums and a policy change that could force state employees to work more than 40 hours per week with no additional compensation?

A Des Moines Sunday Register investigation by Jason Clayworth found Iowa has revoked overtime eligibility for about 2,800 state workers in 167 job classifications. These include nurses, public defenders and social workers, who can now be required to work unlimited additional hours.

For the 12,800 state workers who remain eligible for overtime, the state has altered how the extra hours are calculated to facilitate reducing their pay.

The move is projected to save the state about $5 million. That is a negligible sum in a budget of more than $7 billion. It is particularly hard to stomach following the recent agreement to give Apple the equivalent of more than 40 times that amount of money in state and local tax breaks to locate a data farm here.

The change does, however, send the message this administration does not value public workers  whose duties include nursing home oversight, investigating child abuse, responding to emergencies and clearing snow from highways.

With thousands fewer state employees already, the remaining ones may be doing the jobs of two or three workers. They are also busy trying to implement the many changes required by elected officials, from creating a new family planning program to seeking a federal waiver to strip Medicaid beneficiaries of health services.

Workers get burned out and quit and the state may not replace them, which exacerbates difficulties in providing basic government services.

"We see people leaving or quitting, which causes more workload and overtime for us," said Courtney Supino, a registered nurse at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women, who sometimes works 50 to 64 hours per week.

Five of the 15 registered nurse positions at her facility are unfilled. The Iowa Department of Corrections is struggling to retain nurses lured by hospitals or other private-sector employers with higher pay, sign-on bonuses and more appealing schedules.

While state agencies try to keep workers, the Reynolds administration couldn't move fast enough to make a state job even less attractive. Amid the many changes made to Iowa's collective bargaining law last legislative session was one allowing the state to roll back overtime eligibility. Overtime had historically been granted to thousands of union employees under the Federal Labor Standards Act, or FLSA.

Of course, the union-busting law was not a mandate to local governments and school districts to shortchange their workers. Many opposed the collective bargaining changes. The Polk County Board of Supervisors responded by passing a resolution recognizing "workers are entitled to basic protection including the right to organize and bargain collectively and be paid a living wage."

But the Reynolds administration has a different perspective. The current governor seems to want even fewer state workers to serve the people of Iowa. And she may very well succeed in further eroding staff numbers.
Finnish English

St1 NORDIC OY, COMPANY RELEASE, 18 SEPTEMBER 2017 AT 10AM EET

St1 Nordic Oy finalised the sale of the shares of St1 Norge Automat AS

In January 2016, St1 Nordic Oy signed an agreement to sell the shares of St1 Norge Automat AS (form. St1 Norge AS) to Blue Energy Holding AS, a 100% owned subsidiary of AS Green Cube Innovation. The transaction has been now finalised. The sale follows the Norwegian Competition Authorities' decision related to St1 Nordic Oy's acquisition of Smart Fuel AS (now St1 Norge AS) in Norway in 2015.

St1 Norge Automat AS consists of 39 unmanned St1-branded filling stations. The buyer has the right to use St1 brand at the stations until January 2019.

More information:

St1 Nordic Oy, Kim Wiio, CEO, +358 10 557 11

St1 is a Nordic energy group whose vision is to be the leading producer and seller of CO2-aware energy. The company researches and develops economically viable, environmentally sustainable energy solutions. St1 consists of two sister groups: St1 Nordic focuses on fuels marketing activities in Finland, Sweden and Norway and on renewable energy solutions such as waste-based advanced ethanol fuels and industrial wind power. Company has 1400 St1 and Shell branded retail stations in Finland, Sweden and Norway. The sister group St1 Group focuses on oil refining. Headquartered in Helsinki, the company employs currently 700 people in Finland, Sweden and Norway. St1 Group is planned to merge into St1 Nordic on 31 December 2017. www.st1.eu
By clicking Agree, you consent to Slates Terms of Service and Privacy Policy and the use of technologies such as cookies by Slate and our partners to deliver relevant advertising on our iOS app to personalize content and perform site analytics. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information about our use of data, your rights, and how to withdraw consent.

Agree
English Finnish

OUTOTEC OYJ STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE September 18, 2017 AT 10.00 AM

Outotec's long-term financial targets

Outotec reiterates its long-term financial targets (announced on June 7, 2016) for sales growth, profitability and gearing, while the target for service sales growth has been revised.

The long-term financial targets are:

Sales growth faster than the market

Annual average service sales growth over 10% (previously 5-15%)

Profitability (adjusted EBIT) 10% of sales by 2020

Gearing at maximum 50%

Outotec is hosting 2017 Capital Markets Day (CMD) for portfolio managers as well as sell and buy side analysts on September 21 at 1.30 PM (EEST) at Outotec House, Espoo, Finland. Outotec's top management will present the company's strategy and a roadmap for achieving its financial targets. Examples of resource efficient and sustainable customer solutions as well as service deliveries will be presented as part of the segments' presentations. The event will be webcasted live, for more information, please visit www.outotec.com/investors.

OUTOTEC OYJ

Markku Terasvasara

President & CEO

Tel. +358 20 529 2000



E-mails: firstname.lastname@outotec.com

DISTRIBUTION

NASDAQ Helsinki

Main media

www.outotec.com
TOKYO, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading semiconductor test equipment supplier Advantest Corporation (TSE:6857) has issued an international call for papers for the VOICE 2018 Developer Conference focusing on innovative test solutions for system-on-chip (SoC) and memory semiconductor devices, handler solutions, best practices and hot topics. The 2018 conference will return to the 2016 host cities of San Diego, CA and Hsinchu, Taiwan on May 15-16 and on May 23, respectively, under the unifying theme Measure the Connected Worldand Everything in It.



For the past 11 years, VOICE has been an engineering conference, created by test engineers for test engineers. VOICE 2018 will again offer attendees learning and sharing opportunities with technical presentations, keynote speakers, a partners exposition, a technology kiosk showcase and social gatherings in both locations.

In 2018, VOICE attendees will have the opportunity to return to two of their favorite locations  San Diego, California and Hsinchu, Taiwan, said Angelina Lemon, i.MX test engineer  senior principal engineer at NXP Semiconductors and VOICE 2018 chairperson. We also are returning to an even richer technical program format that features high-quality sessions covering timely topics and more networking time to discuss these topics. In the last year, we have seen huge steps made in 5G communications, artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles, which also create new challenges for automated testing. VOICE brings together different perspectives and expertise about these challenges and more. This event provides an environment that is perfect for sharing knowledge that attendees can apply immediately in their daily work. I look forward to welcoming Advantest users and partners to VOICE 2018.

Advantests VOICE 2018 call for papers focuses on six technology tracks:

Device/System Level Test  specific devices and system level test; MIMO; mmWave; next-generation embedded processors; broadband fiber to the home; autonomous vehicles IC test; multi-chip system-in-package

specific devices and system level test; MIMO; mmWave; next-generation embedded processors; broadband fiber to the home; autonomous vehicles IC test; multi-chip system-in-package Internet of Things (IoT)  IoT enabling technologies; mobility, 5G, wireless, RF, wearables; smart cities/homes; sensors; tactile internet

IoT enabling technologies; mobility, 5G, wireless, RF, wearables; smart cities/homes; sensors; tactile internet Test Methodologies  supporting standards and protocols; solutions for the latest testing challenges

supporting standards and protocols; solutions for the latest testing challenges Hardware & Software Design Integration -- utilizing the latest hardware or software features; test cells; new test system enhancements

utilizing the latest hardware or software features; test cells; new test system enhancements Optimizing Productivity  cost of test; throughput; time-to-market; semiconductor supercycle

cost of test; throughput; time-to-market; semiconductor supercycle Hot Topics  new market drivers and future trends; artificial intelligence; smart data innovation; secure ID and cyber security; secure cloud; video streaming/telepresence

Test developers can submit their abstracts to be considered for presentation in California, Taiwan or both locations. All submissions must be received by October 20, 2017 at https://voice.advantest.com/call-for-papers/. Accepted presenters will be notified in November 2017. Attendees at the conference sessions in May 2018 will vote for the best papers via the VOICE mobile app, with winning presenters receiving prizes during the closing awards ceremony.

For more information about the VOICE 2018 Developer Conference, visit https://voice.advantest.com/ or email mktgcomms@advantest.com. Information about sponsorship opportunities will be available soon.

About Advantest VOICE 2018

Managed by a steering committee of volunteer representatives from Advantest and its customers, VOICE is the leading conference for the growing international community of users and strategic partners involved with Advantests V93000 and T2000 SoC test platforms as well as Advantest memory testers, handlers and test cell solutions. The conference offers a unique opportunity to take part in making semiconductor testing operations as efficient and cost effective as possible. Attendees gain and share valuable insights, build long-lasting relationships and learn whats new about Advantest test equipment, handlers and applications.

About Advantest Corporation

A world-class technology company, Advantest is the leading producer of automatic test equipment (ATE) for the semiconductor industry and a premier manufacturer of measuring instruments used in the design and production of electronic instruments and systems. Its leading-edge systems and products are integrated into the most advanced semiconductor production lines in the world. The company also focuses on R&D for emerging markets that benefit from advancements in nanotech and terahertz technologies, and has introduced multi-vision metrology scanning electron microscopes essential to photomask manufacturing, as well as a groundbreaking 3D imaging and analysis tools. Founded in Tokyo in 1954, Advantest established its first subsidiary in 1982, in the USA, and now has subsidiaries worldwide. More information is available at www.advantest.com.

ADVANTEST CORPORATION

3061 Zanker Road

San Jose, CA 95134, USA

Judy Davies

Judy.davies@advantest.com
Thank you for visiting the Daily Journal.

Please purchase an Enhanced Subscription to continue reading. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.



We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription.



A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much!
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948

/var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17

/usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149



Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f04c2280)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f04bd240)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f04c2280)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f04bd240)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f04ccea8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f04bd240)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f04bd240)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612efe11248)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0447bb0)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0447bb0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
"Olive is keen to keep the magic alive of the summers," Best says. She and the two men do their best - and so does Olive's mother, Emma (Liz Bradley), but nothing this 17th summer is the same as it was.

One of the themes of the play, Best says, is how things change as you get older, in more ways than one.

"Roo is the boss, the ganger of their crew, and they're getting older - late 30s, early 40s - with young people coming up, fitter and stronger.

"Olive doesn't want things to change, she wants things to stay the same."

Best says Olive is often played as a sort of child living in a fantasy world, but she doesn't think that's her at all. She points that Olive supports herself for seven months of the year, working as a barmaid, an occupation that requires a certain amount of savvy. Then for five months she gets to be with the man she loves and have fun with him - in a relationship that some might view as not being very respectable - before going back to being independent.
A Canberra man who admitted sex offences against a 14-year-old girl he met at a fast food restaurant has avoided time behind bars as a judge took aim at his "wrong" belief the acts had been consensual.

The man, 25, pleaded guilty in the ACT Supreme Court to five counts of sex with a young person and using a child to produce child exploitation material.

Justice Michael Elkaim said he faced a dilemma in balancing the need for punishment and deterrence against the "possible destruction of a young man's future" as he sentenced the offender on Monday.

He handed the man a suspended sentence of two years and six months imprisonment and ordered he serve a good behaviour order for that time. The offender was also ordered to perform 300 hours' community service.

The court heard the pair met when they worked together at the same fast food outlet, where the then-21-year-old man worked as a manager, several years ago.
All eyes were on Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC) on Friday night as Cassini's epic 20 year voyage across the solar system came to an end.

It was all up to the Canberra scientists to track and control Cassini's last moments, receiving its last data before it took its deadly plunge into Saturn's atmosphere at 9.55pm.

Cassini met its fiery end on Friday. Credit:NASA

Launched in 1997, the spacecraft was a joint endeavour of NASA, the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency.

It spent the past 13 years studying Saturn and its moons before running out of of fuel.
CBS has raised its bid for the Ten Network ahead of the second creditors' meeting on Tuesday morning, going head-to-head with an improved offer from Ten shareholders Lachlan Murdoch and Bruce Gordon.

CBS's improved bid will pay out unsecured creditors $40.58 million, compared with $32 million in its previous bid - with most of the new funds going to the Murdoch family's 21st Century Fox.

CBS's initial bid was chosen as the winning bid by KordaMentha last month, but the new offer from Murdoch and Gordon could have tempted creditors to delay the second creditors' meeting to consider the rival offer.

The news of the improved offer from CBS comes after Gordon's companies WIN Corporation and Birketu lost a court bid on Monday aimed at thwarting the sale to CBS. Mr Gordon is expected to lodge an appeal.
Washington, D.C., Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) is proud to announce that Tim Sloan, CEO and President of Wells Fargo & Company, will join USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez for a special fireside chat on October 2, as part of the USHCCs 2017 National Convention in Dallas, TX. In his session with Palomarez, Sloan will discuss leadership, how Wells Fargo is rebuilding trust, the economic outlook, as well as offer insight on the challenges and opportunities facing American businesses.

"The USHCC is delighted to have Tim Sloan join us at this year's national convention," said USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "Tim has brought a new vision and focus to Wells Fargo since taking the helm in 2016. Through his leadership, Wells Fargo is making investments in communities across the country, ensuring American small businesses continue to have access to the capital and resources they need to compete and succeed. Under Tims leadership, Wells Fargo understands the engine that drives our economy is small business. Our members are thrilled to hear first-hand from such an industry leader. We look forward to having a robust conversation about a topic so essential to our business community and our country's future."

Wells Fargo serves approximately 3 million small business owners across the United States and has loaned more money to Americas small businesses than any other bank (2002-2015 CRA government data). To help more small businesses achieve financial success, in 2014 Wells Fargo introduced Wells Fargo Works for Small Business  a broad initiative to deliver resources, guidance and services for business owners. In addition, Wells Fargo recently launched its Diverse Segments practice to strengthen its commitment to the Hispanic business community, offering commercial lending expertise to companies with annual revenues of $5 million and above.

The USHCC National Convention brings together Hispanic business owners, corporate executives and members of more than 200 local Hispanic chambers of commerce from across the country, offering the opportunity to establish strategic, long-lasting business partnerships through dialogue, matchmaking and learning. Signature events of the USHCC National Convention include the Million Dollar Club Breakfast (MDC), HBE Elite Luncheon, the ERG Summit, the Women in Business and Leadership Luncheon (WIBLL) and the CEO Panel.

To learn more about the USHCC National Convention, visit ushcc.com/convention.

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. Wells Fargos vision is to satisfy our customers financial needs and help them succeed financially. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 8,500 locations, 13,000 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 42 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 271,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 25 on Fortunes 2017 rankings of Americas largest corporations. News, insights and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

About the USHCC

The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development and interests of more than 4.2 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $668 billion to the American economy every year. It also advocates on behalf of 260 major American corporations and serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, visit ushcc.com. Follow us on Twitter @USHCC.

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/751b660c-6409-4f9c-8c31-a895df43247c
The key to the future ownership of Network Ten sits in the hands of a bunch of its journalists, admin staff, television personalities, producers and operations technicians.

These staff will either vote in favour of US giant CBS's bid getting over the line or to adjourn Tuesday's creditors meeting in order that they can consider a rival offer from Lachlan Murdoch and Bruce Gordon.

By number the 750-strong staff are the crucial group and hold the balance on the show of hands required at the meeting. The largest creditor by value - the other measure that matters in a vote - is CBS which will clearly vote in favour of its own bid.

The last ditch legal attempt from Gordon's private company, WIN, to limit CBS's voting power and challenge the Ten Creditors Report as deficient was thrown out by the Supreme Court on Monday, paving the way for the creditors meeting to go ahead.
That is why Presbyterian minister Steven North was free to cancel a heterosexual wedding booked for November at his Ballarat church, because the bride expressed her support for same-sex marriage on Facebook. His right to discriminate extends to those who merely hold opinions he does not approve of and, whether equal marriage becomes legal or not, he will continue to have that right.

As for tuba players, cake makers and florists being forced to support weddings that offend their religious sensibilities, while they may not be protected in the same way as religious organisations, as a small business operator myself, I know how easy it is to refuse work you don't want to do. All the business people need to do is resist the urge to rub their unwanted client's nose in the reason why.

My gut feeling is, however, given the nature of commerce, that when same-sex marriage is finally passed (as it inevitably will be) the increase in business opportunities for tuba players, cake-makers and florists will overcome the scruples of all but a very few.

Nevertheless, I have no problem with churches keeping their exemption from the Anti-Discrimination Act. Those with religious beliefs should be able to exercise their faith as they wish, just as those without faith (or with a different approach to faith) should be able to live according to their conscience, including getting married. What I don't like is the amorphous and fluid nature of the religious exemptions. It makes it hard for the rest of us to make informed decisions.

Religious organisations should nominate the grounds on which they discriminate  sexual orientation, marital status, reproductive choices, religious belief or lack thereof, opinions they don't like, whatever it might be  and display this fact on all job ads, prospectuses, annual reports and advertising material. It is legal, after all. That way, gay teachers won't waste precious time, energy and hope applying for teaching jobs they will never get. Parents with children attending religious schools will know the basis on which teaching staff are hired and students accepted. And women have every right to know which health providers will not give them the full range of reproductive options.
Emmys 2017 live: Nicole Kidman wins as Big Little Lies, Handmaid's Tale share spoils

Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later.

Dismiss
The federal government is keeping up pressure on AGL Energy to sell its ageing Liddell power station, despite confirmation that the only company thinking of buying the plant is no longer interested.

Josh Frydenberg, the environment and energy minister, said the "only option ... currently on the table to ensure there is no supply shortfall in 2022 is the continuation of Liddell as an operating plant".

"If AGL believe Liddell is a worthless asset then they should test the market and put it up for sale and allow interested parties to undertake due diligence on the plant."

Mr Frydenberg was responding to comments from Delta Electricity on Monday that but all but ruled out any purchase of Liddell. They came less than two weeks after Delta said it would be prepared to conduct a "thorough due diligence" on the 46-year-old station.
Voters situated around the Liddell power station are already looking beyond coal to cleaner power sources and tend to blame the federal government for the current state of energy policy.

All but a few believe pressuring AGL to keep its ageing power station operating is the wrong way to go.

A ReachTEL survey of voter attitudes in the blue-collar Labor strongholds of Hunter and Shortland has found that 30 per cent of voters blame the Coalition for the ongoing electricity policy malaise, around twice the number who hold Labor responsible.

The surprising response challenges the assumption in Canberra that the electors most directly affected by the planned 2022 closure of the almost 50-year-old plant would be most wedded to old technology and the strongest critics of AGL's decision to decommission it.
The Turnbull government must take responsibility and invest more in frontline mental health services struggling with surging demand as a result of the same-sex marriage postal survey, Opposition Leader Bill Shorten says.

A range of mental health groups are in urgent talks this week to develop a strategy to meet the increased demand, with fears the situation will worsen as the postal survey campaign continues for another two months.

Many same-sex marriage advocates wanted a free vote on the issue in Federal Parliament and opposed a public vote  whether by plebiscite or postal survey  partly because of fears about the potential damage to some people's mental health.

Mr Shorten says the development is "exactly what we feared" and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull must act.
North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un should take Washington's threats of possible military action seriously because the world will not accept the rogue state becoming a full nuclear power, Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne has warned.

Mr Pyne said the US, Australia and their allies needed to give the latest round of United Nations sanctions time to bite. Meanwhile the world had to remain united in its resistance to Pyongyang's nuclear program.

"It would be quite unwise for any of the nations that are threatened by North Korea to not stick together and be united in that view. A nuclear-armed North Korea with the capability to deliver that payload to Australia is not acceptable in our region and we will not be getting used to it," Mr Pyne said in Canberra on Monday.

Asked whether the US would really take military action or was merely engaging in shows of brinkmanship, Mr Pyne said "the United States doesn't make those statements lightly".
On August 11, 2014, Bradley Dillon was sent a mysterious message: "car park under TAB".

It was 5.20pm and he was at Leichhardt TAB in Sydney's inner west, after looking at a car with a friend. He left the shop, walking down to the parking structure below.

Brad Dillon was shot dead in Leichhardt.

Within 16 minutes of receiving the text message, the 25-year-old staggered onto Lords Road and collapsed, after being stabbed and shot in the back numerous times in an "ambush".

A trial relating to Mr Dillon's death opened at the NSW Supreme Court in Darlinghurst on Monday, with 26-year-old Diego Carbone accused of his murder.
The business of loan sharking and pawnbroking appears to have been lucrative for Fadi Ibrahim and his business partner, Ben Scott.

At the time of his arrest Mr Ibrahim was attempting to recover millions of dollars he had allegedly advanced to brothel madam Jamelie Lahood.

Mr Ibrahim, who has recently been extradited from Dubai, has been freed on $2 million bail, with a court ordering he live under effective house arrest at his Dover Heights clifftop mansion.

The 43-year-old was one of 18 people arrested by the Australian Federal Police and state police early last month during raids in Australia and the United Arab Emirates over alleged drug and tobacco importation rings.
A high-end sneaker deal has gone awry for a young man who elected to conduct the transaction in a Sydney park.

The 22-year-old man had advertised a pair of black Adidas Yeezy sneakers for sale on the internet for $1100.

Addidas Yeezy shoes, similar to the ones stolen in Dulwich Hill.

About 7.30pm on Monday, the seller met another male who said he wanted to buy the Kanye West-designed hi-tops in Johnson Park in Dulwich Hill.

Police said the 22-year-old man produced the shoes, and handed them to the prospective buyer, who tried them on.
From the outset of Donald Trump's presidential campaign, when he claimed that Mexican "rapists" were surging into the country, immigrants in New York and across the country have struggled to deal with the fallout of his xenophobic rhetoric. Trump's efforts to clamp down on immigration and ramp up deportation have coincided with a spike in hate crimes and immigration-related arrests in New York City. Public defenders say their clients are afraid to report to courthouses, where ICE agents are popping up with increasing frequency. ICE agents themselves say they feel emboldened.

In this climate of fear, multiple NYC Spirit Halloween outposts are selling Border Patrol agent costumesa green shirt with matching hat and gold lettering.

The hat costs $9.99; the shirt, emblazoned with "AGENT WALL," goes for $29.99. The costumes are displayed next to the Trump masks.

"It takes a vast amount of privilege to find humor in a uniform that represents terror and fear for millions of New Yorkers," said Steven Choi, director of the New York Immigration Coalition, in a statement to Gothamist. "We hope people will exercise better judgement and choose not to spend their money at these stores, and that universities will update their Halloween guidance to include the immigrant experience."



(Scott Heins/Gothamist)

The group added that while these types of costumes have been on their radar in the past (what's more American than a Halloween costume that makes light of human suffering and/or entrenched racism, after all?) this is their first glimpse of the border patrol genre in New York City.

A spokeswoman for Spirit Halloween did not immediately comment on the border patrol costume. The company also did not confirm when the costume was introduced, or whether it is on display in all NYC Spirit Halloween locations. [See update below.] We spotted the displays at a 37th Street and 5th Avenue location alongside Trump masks, as well as a location near Broadway and 34th Street (alongside Trump and Putin masks).

On Monday afternoon, a smattering of shoppers at the 37th Street location gravitated toward the Trump masks, taking selfies and laughing.

Spirit Halloween has 11 locations in Manhattan, according to its website, as well as one in Brooklyn and two in Queens. The company's sexy take on the costumethe Border Babeis online only and currently sold out.

Javier H. Valdes, co-executive director of Make the Road New York, called the costumes "utterly reprehensible."

"As Donald Trump and his out-of-control immigration agencies escalate their attacks on our families, the pain of our communities is no laughing matterand certainly should not be a part of anyones Halloween celebrations," he said. "These products should be immediately discontinued, and the company should apologize immediately.

Additional reporting by Scott Heins.

[Update] Spirit Halloween gave us this statement on the costumes:
A seven-person oversight board would review all assisted deaths of terminally ill patients in NSW under the latest version of a bill to legalise voluntary assisted dying in the state.

Establishment of a Voluntary Assisted Dying Board is the major change to the proposal following the release in May of a draft bill for public consultation.

The bill, due to be introduced into the NSW Legislative Council on Thursday by Nationals MLC Trevor Khan, also adds a requirement that a patient's primary medical practitioner must offer to refer the patient to a palliative care specialist.

The changes were made following 72 "substantial" submissions to the cross-party working group of MPs sponsoring the private members' bill.
There will be no change to Queensland's ID scanning regime despite reports millions of people had been scanned to catch only a handful of offenders.

Figures reported by News Corp suggested just 19 people were stopped from entering licensed venues outside of Brisbane and the Gold Coast in the first two months of the scanners' operation.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has backed the state's ID-scanning scheme despite its effectiveness being questioned. Credit:Samantha Mancee/AAP

But Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk insists the scheme is working as intended, and has no plans to change it.

"What we're seeing is since our laws came into effect over 1.9 million IDs have been scanned and 95 people (across the state) have been caught and prevented from going in," she said on Monday.
A proposed 30-storey tower at South Brisbane is set to deliver the largest communal space for a development of its size in Australia with plans for a running track, dog park, car share scheme and wine bar.

Aria Property Group has lodged a development application to the Brisbane City Council proposing the residential tower at 13-17 Manning Street, at the end of Fish Lane.

The tower would include 261 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses as well as 314 carparks spread over three levels of basement parking and five levels of podium parking.

Aria Property Group has proposed a 30-storey residential tower on Manning Street, South Brisbane

The podium was proposed to be screened by Australias largest living green wall, which would include more than 150 oversized terracotta pots.
A man who had sex with a 14-year-old girl who initially told him she was 16 has walked from a Queensland court without a conviction.

Bailey Truman Merz, 21, was sentenced in the Brisbane District Court on Monday to 2 years probation after he pleaded guilty to the unlawful carnal knowledge and indecent treatment of a child.

Bailey Merz leaves Brisbane District Court following his sentencing on Monday. Credit:Dan Peled/AAP

There was an audible sigh of relief from the gallery as his friends and family learnt a conviction would not be recorded.

The court heard Merz, then 19, met the victim in Brisbane city on June 1, 2016.
After Ken Taylor's personal computer was hacked he is concerned about the impact hacking would have on his restaurant Templestowe Living Room.

"I went into a website which was a bogus site and it basically took a hold of my computer," Taylor says. "I got a phone call wanting to fix my computer for $500 and I just ripped all the plugs out. After a while I turned it back on again and fortunately nothing further happened but I ended up having to get advice from my security people. They did a complete search and got rid of some dodgy stuff that had been implanted in the system."

Ken Taylor is the owner of Templestowe Living Room restaurant. Credit:Jason South

Taylor says the restaurant's website is "essential" to the business which turns over $2 million a year and employs 30 staff but research published on Tuesday shows hacking fears mean increasing numbers of small businesses are not hosting their own websites.

Sensis surveyed more than 1000 small businesses and found the proportion of small and medium businesses worried about hacking jumped from 69 per cent to 81 per cent this year.
Australian researchers have found a way of slowing down digital information carried as light by transforming it into sound waves within a microchip.

The researchers hope the chip can play a role in saving the under-the-pump fibre optic networks that are the backbone of the global internet.

Dr Birgit Stiller and Moritz Merklein inside their lab in the Sydney Nanoscience Hub. Credit:Louise M Cooper

The first-of-its-kind chip takes light waves, rushing at close to 300,000,000 metres a second, and pushes them through a special wire as a sound wave, which runs five orders of magnitude slower.

"It is like the difference between thunder and lightning," said Dr Birgit Stiller, a physicist who worked with Moritz Merklein at the University of Sydney on the project.
The rules on political donations are set to get tighter. "These are tough changes, they're important changes," he said. Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings said the Victorian government was acting on donations in the absence of any reform leadership from the Commonwealth. But he said the reforms would benefit all sides of politics. "We actually hope that we'll receive political support from all parties," Mr Jennings said.

The reforms will need to pass through both houses of Parliament, with the government needing to win support for the changes in the upper house, where it does not hold the majority. The changes will apply to associated entities, which are controlled by or operate for the benefit of a political party. Third-party campaigners such as unions and business groups will also have to meet the proposed requirements. "Third-party campaigners like a union or a GetUp!, they too will have same thresholds for donation disclosure so that everybody is on a level playing field," Mr Andrews said. Mr Jennings said the business models of fund-raising groups connected with major parties, such as Labor's Progressive Business and the Liberal-aligned Cormack Foundation, would be "profoundly" changed. He said the reforms would place a major administrative burden on the Victorian Electoral Commission.

"We are going into this with our eyes open," he said. Fees to join political parties will be exempt from the changes. But Mr Jennings said disclosures in annual returns would allow Victorians to see if parties were taking what had previously been a donation and turning it into a membership fee. "That disclosure in its own right would lead to political pressure and any further need to reform in the future." Breaching the laws will result in up to $44,000 in fines and two years' jail.

Labor's announcement was met with scepticism by the Liberals and the Greens, who both said they would pore over the legislation in search of loopholes the Andrews government might have inserted to benefit its own side of politics. Opposition Leader Matthew Guy and Greens leader Greg Barber both said separately that Victoria's donation disclosure laws were overdue for reform, but criticised Labor for not consulting other political parties on the issue. "I want to see whether or not it is being done in a hyper-political manner or a bipartisan manner," Mr Guy said. "Is this being done simply to advantage one side of politics?" He agreed that lower caps on donations would likely require taxpayers to chip in more to cover the cost of elections.

Mr Barber said that "on the surface" the proposed reform looked like what the Greens had been calling for in Victoria for years, but would not endorse it without seeing the legislation. "Dodgy deals are in Dan Andrews' DNA, we've learnt that over the last three years and I'll guarantee that he's left himself a loophole so that he can benefit himself from this measure," he said. The reforms follow years of scandals and controversies on both sides of politics, many revealed by Fairfax Media, the most recent being the lobster dinner between a man police allege to be Melbourne's Mafia boss and Mr Guy. Earlier controversies have included cash-for-access revelations about the the coal mining industry under the former Bracks and Brumby Labor government. An ALP conference resolution that helped ease the way for the reform earlier this year specifically noted as a catalyst for reform the rezoning of Fisherman's Bend in 2012 by then-planning minister Mr Guy.

The decision delivered massive overnight windfalls to property owners, including major Liberal Party figures and donors. Currently, Victoria has campaign funding laws that are among the weakest in the western world. There are no caps on donations or spending other than a $50,000 limit on gambling licences. Victoria relies instead on the Commonwealth's weak and loophole-ridden donations regime, which only requires that donations of more than $13,200 are disclosed. Even then, publication of disclosure can be as long as 19 months after a donation is made.

While both parties have criticised the current arrangement over many years, neither has been prepared to tackle it. As a result Victoria has been left way behind NSW and Queensland, where tough restrictions apply including a ban on property industry donations in NSW. Melbourne University's Electoral Regulation Research Network director, Joo-Cheong Tham, said the proposals were a "welcome recognition" of the risks to Victoria's democracy from money in politics. "Their effectiveness will, however, be limited by the failure to deal with the costs of election campaigning, the principal factor driving political fund-raising," he said. Loading
A former bikie who once assaulted police has told a court he wants to stand surety for his 69-year-old father, a drug and alcohol counsellor who's facing corruption charges.

Anthony Dieni is accused of providing a drug user with a clean urine sample, giving false evidence on the user's behalf to a magistrate and stealing $164,000 from St Paul's Rehabilitation Prevention.

Frank Dieni in custody 2012. He was later spared conviction on four counts of assaulting police. Credit:Justin McManus

He is also accused of using his position at the Strathmore-based charity, to procure drugs from users and with providing his adult grandson with cocaine and cannabis.

A probe into his conduct by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) has cast doubt over a series of judgments made in Victorian courts, because Mr Dieni advocated for 10 people with cases before the courts.
Police said it was lucky no one was injured after a man allegedly stole a car from a home in Melbourne's inner-west then crashed it into another car and fence on Tuesday morning.

A 34-year-old Burwood man has been arrested following an aggravated burglary in Tait Street, Newport, just before midnight. Two hours after the alleged theft of a Toyota Kluger from the Newport home, police were called to Burwood Highway, Burwood, following reports a car had crashed into another car about 1.50am.

The man fled the crash on foot before trying to steal another car. Credit:Marina Neil/Fairfax Media

The driver of the allegedly stolen Kluger fled the scene on foot and police believe he was then involved in another aggravated burglary in Bellevue Avenue, Burwood East, just before 3am.

Police arrested a Burwood man in nearby Hutchinson Street, Burwood East, as he allegedly attempted to steal another car about 3.40am.
Two confirmed cases of measles in Melbourne have been discovered in the past week, sparking a warning to doctors and hospitals from Victoria's chief health officer.

One person acquired the illness in Melbourne and the second may have been infected locally or overseas.

A third case of measles was confirmed late on Monday night. The Health Department said the third person contracted the measles overseas, but at this stage they believe it is not related to the other two cases.

As the source of the infection is unknown, the Health Department has warned that there may already be secondary cases in the community that have not been diagnosed.
A Dianella man accused of exposing himself to females in Perth's western suburbs over three months has been arrested by police.

A police spokesman alleged the 35-year-old committed the obscene acts in Cottesloe, Claremont, Mount Lawley, Crawley, Kings Park and Nedlands between June and September.

Police have arrested a man accused of flashing women in several Perth suburbs. Credit:Robert Shakespeare

He has been charged with seven counts of obscene act in public and is due to appear in Perth Magistrates Court on September 26.

Anyone with information about the alleged incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
President Donald Trump has opened his first visit to the United Nations since taking office with a speech saying the 72-year-old institution has become too bureaucratic and ineffective, and needs to reorient its approach.

In a meeting with counterparts from around the world on Tuesday, Trump complained that spending and staff at the United Nations had grown enormously over the years but that "we are not seeing the results in line with this investment".

US President Donald Trump speaks at the United Nations as UN secretary general Antonio Guterres, left, listens during a panel discussion in New York. Credit:Bloomberg/Caitlin Ochs

The polite but firm four-minute speech included none of the bombast he had directed at foreign institutions in the past.

As recently as December, after winning the presidential election but before being sworn in, Trump dismissed the UN as "just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time".
London: MPs have called for Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson to be fired after he threw himself back into the Brexit debate with a newspaper article that was seen as undercutting Prime Minister Theresa May days before she is set to refresh her own strategy for the split.

Writing in The Daily Telegraph a day after a failed bomb attack in London, the figurehead of last year's campaign to leave the European Union outlined what he called a "glorious" vision for the UK outside of the bloc, prompting criticism he is undermining May and possibly reviving his own leadership ambitions. Home Secretary Amber Rudd described it as "back-seat driving".

"It puts Theresa May in an impossible position, I can't understand why she hasn't fired him," Vince Cable, leader of the opposition Liberal Democrats, said on the BBC. "He has a completely and utterly different view of what Brexit means from the rest of the cabinet," he said, adding that the "civil war" in May's government will hamper talks with the EU.

Unidentified MPs within May's Conservative Party were cited by newspapers as demanding Johnson's sacking for a move seen as a bid to replace her.Ruth Davidson, the party's Scotland leader, tweeted that "on the day of a terror attack where Britons were maimed, just hours after the threat level is raised, our only thoughts should be on service."
While Aung San Suu Kyi has been widely condemned for failing to stop the slaughter of Rohingya Muslims, Myanmar's military commander has been feted during official trips to Europe.

If anyone can stop what the United Nations calls "textbook ethnic cleansing" of Rohingya in strife-torn Rakhine State it is Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who has commanded the country's military since 2011, analysts say.

But as international outrage grows over the Rohingya crisis, the 61 year-old general, who wields more power than Ms Suu Kyi, insists that more than one million Rohingya have no roots in Rakhine, despite living there for generations.

In comments posted on Facebook, General Min Aung Hlaing reflected the widespread view among Myanmar's majority Buddhists that Rohingya are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, and should be known as Bengalis.
St Louis: A protest over police use of force that started peacefully has grown increasingly chaotic with demonstrators breaking windows in central St. Louis in the US and others attempting to block a ramp to an interstate highway, police and witnesses say.

Police say they have an order for the crowd to disperse at one intersection after reports of significant property damage.

A man is treated after being pepper sprayed as police tried to clear a violent crowd. Credit:AP

"Officers in personal protection gear have arrived on the scene in Downtown to disperse unruly crowd," St Louis police said on Twitter on Sunday night.

Earlier in the evening, a handful of demonstrators threw bottles in response to a police officer making arrests, the first indication that the protest could turn violent as it did the previous two nights.
"We believe that Manatee County failed to provide information to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community to the same extent that it provided to all others," he said. Experts who reviewed the video said the interpreter spelled the wrong words and gesticulated gibberish. Rosenblum tried to decipher the beginning, starting when officials announced the evacuation, but he could only make out a jumble of disconnected phrases. "On that news" was followed by "need evacuate" and later, "pray wait water". The interpreter also appeared at a news conference later that day - wearing the same yellow shirt.

The county posted highlights from its news conferences on Facebook, including a searchable map of evacuation zones and information about shelters. But being unable to understand the live news conferences put the deaf population on edge. "It was really a stressful day for sure," Julie Beacham-Hooie, 47, of Bradenton, Florida, who is deaf, said through an interpreter in a phone interview. "I was watching the interpreter and seeing him spelling and spelling and spelling, and not fully signing," she said. "It was very hard to follow." She turned to the internet for more information and relied on her sister in Nevada. "I asked other people if the hurricane was actually headed straight for us," she said. "I had no idea." Phyllis Corbett, 57, another Bradenton resident who is deaf, said through a translator that the interpreter was "totally unqualified".

"It really scared me," she said. "We're in an emergency situation here. It was a life and death thing." The interpreter, identified by the county as Marshall Greene, could not be reached for comment. Nicholas Azzara, a spokesman for the county, said in an email that Greene, who is a lifeguard for a county-run beach, has a brother who is deaf. Greene was asked to sign because there was little time to find an interpreter before the news conference. It is not unusual for family members of the deaf to have only a rudimentary understanding of American Sign Language, said Beth Barnes, a certified sign language interpreter who has several deaf family members, including her parents.

Barnes, with help from her sister, posted a proper interpretation of the news conference in a video on Facebook that afternoon. "I just knew that it was very important information that needed to be shared immediately because they were closing the hospital," said Barnes, who lives in Clearwater, Florida. County leaders told the Tampa television station WFLA that they called on Greene because they were "in a pinch". But Rosenblum said the search for an interpreter should never have been done so hastily. Nearby Sarasota County used a qualified interpreter at its news conferences, he said. M. Charlene McCarthy, the founder of VisCom, a sign language interpreting agency in Florida, said that her company often provided interpreters to Manatee County but that nobody asked for help with the Irma news conferences.

"I don't know why they didn't call," she said. The unintelligible signing was unlike anything she had ever seen, McCarthy said, with the exception of the man who masqueraded as an interpreter at Nelson Mandela's memorial service in 2013. Other interpreters have gained attention on social media for the opposite reason - because they were universally admired. The sign-language interpreter for Florida Governor Rick Scott earned praise for his animated expressions during Irma, and Lydia Callis, a celebrated presence at news conferences for New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, inspired online tributes as well as a Saturday Night Live sketch contrasting the styles of interpreting Bloomberg and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. Loading
It is every Washington reporter's dream to sit down at a restaurant, overhear secret stuff, and get a scoop. It rarely happens.

Still, everyone in town important enough to have secrets worth keeping knows that secrets are not safe on the Acela train and in Washington restaurants.

This is especially true in eateries next door to a major newspaper.

Yes, Ty Cobb and John Dowd, lawyers for President Donald Trump, we're talking to you.
Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, is closing in on a potentially catastrophic strike on the already storm-weary Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, following a first-on-record Category 5 landfall for the island of Dominica Monday evening.

The National Weather Service office in San Juan, Puerto Rico, warned of "catastrophic damage" from Maria's winds, as well as "life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible devastating impacts" in a hurricane local statement issued Tuesday evening.

Maria's center is currently located about 50 miles south-southeast of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands and is moving west-northwest at 10 mph.

A hurricane warning remains in effect for the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Culebra, Vieques and in the Dominican Republic from Cabo Engano to Puerto Plata.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, Guadeloupe, from west of Puerto Plata to the northern border of the Dominican Republic and Haiti and from west of Cabo Engano to Punta Palenque in the Dominican Republic.

A hurricane watch has been hoisted for the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeastern Bahamas. Hurricane watches also include Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, St. Martin, St. Barthelemy and in the Dominican Republic from Isla Saona to Cabo Engano.

Maria rapidly intensified Monday thanks to a combination of low wind shear, a moist atmosphere and warm ocean temperatures.

A report from a U.S. Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter mission Tuesday evening confirmed Maria was still strengthening as maximum sustained winds increased to 175 mph and central pressure dropped to 909 mb, a lower pressure than Irma had at any time.

This is the lowest pressure for any Atlantic hurricane since Hurricane Dean's 905-mb minimum central pressure in August 2007. It is also the 10th-most-intense hurricane in Atlantic Basin history, based on minimum central pressure.

Next up for Maria is a potentially catastrophic strike on the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Leeward Islands Impacts

Hurricane Maria made landfall on the island of Dominica at 9:15 p.m. EDT Monday evening as a Category 5 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 160 mph.

Hurricane-force winds may persist in portions of the hurricane warning area in the Leeward Islands Tuesday evening. This includes some locations in the northern Leeward Islands that were devastated by Hurricane Irma.

Additionally, bands of heavy rain on the eastern flank of Maria may wrap into these locations at times, accompanied by tropical-storm-force wind gusts.

A storm surge of up to 7 to 11 feet above normal tide levels was expected in the hurricane warning area.

High surf and dangerous rip currents are impacting the Lesser Antilles and will persist even for a day or so after Maria's center passes by.

Rainfall totals of 10 to 15 inches are possible in the central and southern Leeward Islands, with locally up to 20 inches in some spots. That has the potential to produce widespread, life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly on mountainous terrain.

Maria is also expected to produce 4 to 8 inches of rain, with locally up to 10 inches, over the northern Leeward Islands from Barbuda to Anguilla.

Two to 4 inches of rain, with locally up to 6 inches, can be expected in the Windward Islands and Barbados.

Weather.com Report

The approximate Closest Point of Approach (CPA) is located near 16.8N, 64.0W or about 103.8 miles (167.0 km) from St. Maarten/St. Martin. This is corresponding with the 0 hour position of the 5-day forecast. Info from www.stormcarib.com.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister The Honorable William Marlin of Sint Maarten releases the following briefing on the infrastructure, along with words of thanks. Please note that all was current at press time and is subject to change as work and talks progress.

ROADS

Main roads are cleared and work continues on inner roads to the districts.

ELECTRICITY / WATER

Several districts have received electricity and water thus far. Emphasis and priority is being placed in this regard also for the schools to receive the same.

TELEPHONE / INTERNET SERVICE

Major telecommunication services including TELEM and UTS is functioning, however with some sporadic service. It is recommended to download WhatsApp on your smartphone if at all possible for quick communication, as SMS is taking much longer to go through.

TELEVISION

Cable television provider is not operational, however streaming via Internet is up and running.

RADIO

Two major radio stations are operational: PJD2 (102.7 FM) and Laser (101.1 FM). Indications from the regulatory body, Bureau Telecommunication is that early next week other radio stations will soon be broadcasting.

SUPERMARKETS

Several grocery stores are open within the curfew, and more are opening on an ongoing basis to service the community. Please report price gauging to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

GASOLINE

Gasoline stations were allowed to be open within the curfew, providing service to emergency vehicles and the general population.

CURFEW

The curfew between Sint Maarten and Saint Martin has been synchronized. Authorities from both governments have agreed that effective Sunday, September 17, 2017, non-emergency pass holders are prohibited from being on the streets between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. local time until further notice. Emergency pass holders are defined persons holding valid disaster team passes from Sint Maarten or Saint Martin. Though checkpoints will be at all borders, this does not prohibit the free movement between each side of the island, but it will enhance the protection of the citizens on the island and of course, provide ease of transportation for residents and family and friends during this difficult time to both sides of the island.

DROP-OFF POINTS FOR CHARITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Efforts are being made in each district of the island on a daily basis to provide food and supplies to the population. As indicated by the Police Force of Sint Maarten, this is progressing well without incident.

FOREIGN AID

In support of coordination, USAR.NL collects requests from local disaster management and donor offerings in the Coordination Center of the Government of Sint Maarten. In this Coordination Center, USAR.NL and local volunteers work together with government employees and communication staff. In cooperation with the local government, priorities are set and the offer is tailored to the demand. To provide or receive aid, persons or organizations can use the email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

AIRPORT

The Princess Juliana International Airport is receiving cargo flights and humanitarian flights. Commercial flights are not being authorized at this time, however, we realize that many individuals do need to come to the island to assess property and see family. We will be updating on this soon.

PORT

The Port Facilities of Sint Maarten received some damage but cruise ships and cargo vessels conducting humanitarian efforts are docking at the port and assisting in taking persons to other destinations.

HOSPITAL/ MEDICAL

Sint Maarten Medical Center received damage during the storm but is operational. The Lab services (SLS) are also up and running. General practitioners and pharmacies are open daily to the public on a rotating schedule.

WORDS OF THANKS

The government of Sint Maarten is extremely grateful for the support of the people of The Netherlands. On 15th September 2017, a total of 13,3 million was raised in The Netherlands during a day-long national event, Nederland helpt Sint Maarten telethon. Prime Minister The Honorable William Marlin commented that he was immensely moved when he heard that Dutch children had emptied their piggy bank to be able to donate to the hurricane victims on Sint Maarten. It is an unprecedented outpouring of support in the face of disaster. This funding will allow us to serve our community with the reconstruction and rebuilding that our country needs, the Prime Minister said. With it, we can get the people of Sint Maarten back into their homes and back to work. The support will provide essential materials, supplies, and services to our community. It will aid our disaster relief efforts and support the good work of our relief organizations in helping to rebuild our nation. We are proud of their tireless dedication and work they are putting in to help those affected.

DCOMM Press Release
The Raccoons long ago declared war on The Humans, but it appears the humans are fighting back, with a new report in the Post claiming the city has euthanized hundreds of raccoons to test them for rabies. Of the 662 killed and tested between 2014 and 2016, the Post says only 18 tested positive for rabies, which is good news for humans who fear the raccoons eating out of their trash cans but less good for the many raccoons who died to bring us this information.

Raccoons weren't the only victims of the Great Potential Rabies Purgethe city reportedly tested 1,248 creatures for rabies during the aforementioned time period, though only 23 total harbored the disease. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies exposure is quite rareonly 1 to 3 humans in the United States contract rabies per year, with the last known fatal case in the state of New York affecting a 25-year-old man who was bit by a dog in Afghanistan. In New York City, there hasn't been a fatal rabies case since 1947.

Still, state law requires animals who look sick to get tested for rabies, and in order for an animal to be tested, it must be euthanized. Raccoonsalong with foxes, skunks, bats, and groundhogsare a "rabies vector species," which means they're at a higher risk for contracting the disease. Healthy raccoons get to live a long garbage-eating life, but if they appear ill or are acting strangely, things will not end well for them. "Healthy animals are not euthanized for the sole purpose of rabies testing," Health Department spokesman Julien Martinez told the Post. "Most of the animals that underwent rabies testing were previously set to be humanely euthanized. Only animals that are sick or injured are humanely euthanized."

PETA says the city's raccoon strategy is misguided and cruel. Stephanie Bell, PETAs senior director of cruelty casework, told the tabloid, "If officials want to do something productive about rabies  which theyve already shown is not endemic in the wild raccoon population  they should enforce vaccination laws for domestic animals, ensure that garbage is disposed of properly, and pass prohibitions against feeding wildlife."

Raccoon enthusiasts who want to help a procyonid in need should consider opening their homes to Mr. Jiggles, who has to vacate his Park Slope residence because his human owner's new boyfriend is allergic. Mr. Jiggles comes with raccoon undies and a handmade nest and he is extremely cute, though note that it is not technically legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in New York.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Sunday morning, the Prime Minister of Dominica, the Honorable Roosevelt Skerrit paid a brief courtesy visit to the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the Honorable William Marlin.

The Dominica Prime Minister said that he had to come personally to express sympathies to the government and people of Sint Maarten, because of the longstanding bond and friendship with Sint Maarten.

The Prime Minister expressed the willingness of his government to assist with water, dry goods and sometime next week, a shipment of provisions, plantains, and avocados will also be sent.

Sint Maartens Prime Minister gave a brief overview of the damage sustained and explained some of what was done already and what is still ongoing. He then thanked the Dominica Prime Minister on behalf of the government and people of Sint Maarten.

On Sunday morning Prime Minister Marlin also received a courtesy visit from the Chinese Consul general stationed in Curacao.

The Consul said he immediately got approval to cut short his vacation in order to come to Sint Maarten to see firsthand the damage that was caused by Hurricane Irma.

He expressed sympathies to the people and government of Sint Maarten on behalf of the Chinese government.

He said that he had briefly met with a group of Chinese business people on the island and they all expressed that they will stay on the island and contribute to the rebuilding.

About 28 Chinese citizens, among them several expecting mothers and newborns left the island for a short period.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Sunday afternoon, September 17, 2017, the Government of Sint Maarten - Governor Drs. Eugene Holiday and the full Council of Ministers - met with the mission team established by the Dutch Government, headed by Mr. Erwin Arkenbout and locally supported by the Representative of the Netherlands in Philipsburg (VNP), Mr. Chris Johnson.

The Dutch mission is offering assistance in the recovery and rebuilding phase of Sint Maarten in areas required and desired by the government of Sint Maarten. The present mission team consists of a group of experts in various areas such as communication, telecommunication, crisis management, infrastructure in general and in specific of the harbor and the airport, housing, and waste management. During the introductory meeting, the priority needs, which were clearly defined by the government of Sint Maarten, were communicated to the mission team including on how the team can best facilitate the recovery and rebuilding process of the island.

The Government of Sint Maarten identified the following recovery priorities:

Housing; Schools; Water distribution; Airport & Air Traffic Control Facilities & Meteorological Facilities; Hospital; Waste management; Social safety net; Public order including the prison; Tax Administration & Infrastructure; Sports & Art Facilities.

Within a short period, an introductory meeting with all involved stakeholders on the related priorities and the mission team members will be scheduled for further detailing of the process. Head of the mission, Mr. Erwin Arkenbout, pledged additional support by experts if such is needed or desired by the government of Sint Maarten. Continuous weekly briefings will take place between the Prime Minister and Mr. Arkenbout. Prime Minister, William Marlin, stressed the need for a substantial financial assistance in terms of grants and/or borrowing under favorable conditions to address the priorities identified and to stimulate economic recovery.

DCOMM Press Release
Enterprise Management Associates Names Virtual Instruments as Value Leader in 2017 Radar Report for Storage Intelligence

SAN JOSE, CA  (Marketwired)  09/18/17  , the leader in application-centric infrastructure performance management, announced today that it has been positioned as a Value Leader and the vendor with the Best Predictive Analytics capabilities in Enterprise Management Associates (EMAs) 2017 Radar Report on Storage Intelligence.

The EMA Radar Report evaluates leading storage intelligence vendors based on criteria such as architecture and integration; deployment and administration; and cost advantage. For the purpose of this report, EMA defines value as the ratio derived from strength of a product set against its cost efficiency. Customers interviewed by EMA stated that Virtual Instruments offerings are easy to deploy, intuitive to manage, and offer support for managing virtualization layers, creating custom reports, and modelling workloads. Customers also noted Virtual Instruments exceptional customer service.

EMAs evaluation of [Virtual Instruments] solution architecture revealed it provides the most comprehensive array of analytics capabilities of all the platforms evaluated in this report, said Steve Brasen, managing research director at EMA and author of the report. Additionally, EMA is very impressed with Virtual Instruments vision of enabling dynamic workload placements and configuration change recommendations based on application performance requirements.

In addition to positioning Virtual Instruments as a Value Leader in the report, EMA also honored Virtual Instruments with its Best Predictive Analytics Award. EMA recognized Virtual Instruments for its strong machine learning capabilities, including descriptive, prescriptive, diagnostic, and  most notably  predictive analytics. By processing millions of individual metrics per second and presenting the results in an easily digestible graphical format, Virtual Instruments enables its users to easily identify future states, potential problems, and optimal configurations.

Virtual Instruments designation as a Value Leader and Best Predictive Analytics vendor by EMA underscores our commitment to helping customers optimize their server, network and storage infrastructure investments, said Len Rosenthal, chief marketing officer at Virtual Instruments. As noted in the comprehensive report, recognized vendors must display leadership both through their storage intelligence products and a strong commitment to servicing their customers. Our app-centric approach to enabling our customers to ensure the performance, health and utilization of their infrastructures in the context of their key applications sets Virtual Instruments apart from all other performance management solutions.

EMAs Steve Brasen will host a webinar at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, September 19th to share key findings from the EMA Radar Report on the storage intelligence market. To register for the webinar, please visit:

Virtual Instruments offers real-time infrastructure performance monitoring, analytics, and storage validation products that provide breakthrough application workload visibility to Global 2000 enterprise companies, government, and service providers. To learn more about the Virtual Instruments application-centric infrastructure performance management offerings, please visit

The EMA Radar Report delivers an in-depth analysis of industry-leading vendors and vendor products, including their overall market position in comparison with other vendors. This information is laid out in an easy-to-decipher, detailed Radar chart  which includes the composite score for each vendor  making it simple to see how vendors measure up in the market, as well as against other vendors. The EMA Radar Report also provides a detailed discussion of methodology and criteria, a high-level market segment overview, a comprehensive analyst write-up on each vendor, as well as an evaluation of software products based on five key dimensions: ease of deployment and administration, cost advantage, architecture and integration, functionality, and vendor strength.

Virtual Instruments is the leader in application-centric infrastructure performance management. It provides comprehensive infrastructure instrumentation and performance analytics for enterprise data centers. The companys solutions give IT teams deep workload visibility and actionable insights into their end-to-end systems across the hybrid data center. Virtual Instruments empowers companies to maximize the performance, availability and utilization of their production IT infrastructure. Virtual Instruments has over 500 customers, including enterprise IT, cloud service providers and storage vendors. The privately held company is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. For more information, visit .

Drew Smith

10Fold for Virtual Instruments

+1 415 800 5374
Apogee Partner George Mason University Spotlights How Digital Communications Boosts Student Engagement in EDUCAUSE Review

AUSTIN, TX and FAIRFAX, VA  (Marketwired)  09/18/17  , higher educations largest provider of managed technology services, was recently featured in by partner school, as a vital part of their eight-year strategic plan initiative to advance digital communications for student engagement and success. By partnering with Apogee, Mason proactively leveraged various communication platforms such as social media, mobile, digital signage, cable TV, their dedicated Campus Life Channel and MasonReady app to foster a well-informed and highly engaged campus.

The article, titled Digital Engagement for Campus Communication, was written by J. Thomas Hennessey Jr., Chief of Staff Emeritus at Mason. Hennessey shared that as Virginias largest public research university with 34,000 students, Mason understood the importance of sharing success-related content while managing content bombardment. Since its 2009 selection of Apogee to manage digital signage with a focus on emergency notification and revenue creation, the partnership has evolved into the management of a seamless, innovative system where curated school and student social media, videos, flyers, and live events are delivered digitally via social platforms such as mobile, digital signage, and cable infrastructure.

George Masons long-term partnership with Apogee has provided us with benefits beyond our expectations, said Hennessey. Feedback from students is that they see the TV screens and digital signs as a go-to place for the latest updates on campus happenings. Before, George Mason managed content internally and received about 30 static images a month; now we curate over 3,000 social posts, flyers, and videos a month.

In addition to reporting clear results on student engagement, Hennessey shared his experience with outsourcing to Apogee: By choosing an outsourced partner, we saved more than $300,000 over in-house costs. We also experienced a stronger service continuity plan, 24/7 onsite and remote IT support as well as freed up staff time to focus on other mission-critical goals.

In this feature article, Hennessey also delved at length on the following:

Shapes and sizes of todays digital engagement platforms

The importance and examples of social media campaigns in their overall engagement plan

The importance and examples of mobile initiatives in their overall plan

Masons new Student Ambassador Program to employ a student to serve as the schools direct link and connector to other students

Tracking and measuring success

Cost of maintaining and supporting such systems

George Masons innovative use of technology and digital communications serves as an excellent model for other universities in our region and beyond, said John OBrien, Regional Vice President of Apogee. As Masons long-term strategic partner for digital engagement, Apogee is proud of our joint accomplishments over the years. Its been a deeply gratifying experience for our team to have helped pioneer and shape evolving digital communications platforms, significantly increased student engagement and success, and provided our partner with substantial cost savings.

J. Thomas Hennesseys full article titled Digital Engagement for Campus Communication was published on August 28, 2017 in EDUCAUSE Review and can be read .

George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with global distinction in a range of academic fields. Located in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., Mason provides students access to diverse cultural experiences and the most sought-after internships and employers in the country. Mason offers strong undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering and information technology, organizational psychology, health care and visual and performing arts. With Mason professors conducting groundbreaking research in areas such as climate change, public policy and the biosciences, George Mason University is a leading example of the modern, public university. George Mason University  Where Innovation Is Tradition.

As higher educations largest provider of managed technology services, Apogee helps colleges and universities transition to and excel in todays digital era. Its comprehensive Managed Campus Suite includes ResNet and Administrative network solution that connect the campus to enhance learning outcomes, video that transforms the way students learn, and new digital engagement technologies that captivate students. Partnering with Apogee enables schools to derive greater return on their IT investments and increases student satisfaction while achieving budget stability and predictability. Find out why nine out of 10 schools that choose to outsource ResNet and video choose to partner with Apogee at .

:

Sharon Y. Sim

415.420.1889
AnalytixInsight and Africa Investor Launch Financial Portal for African Market

TORONTO, ONTARIO  (Marketwired)  09/18/17  Artificial Intelligence company, AnalytixInsight Inc. (AnalytixInsight) (TSX VENTURE: ALY) and Africa investor (Ai), a leading African media and financial group, are pleased to announce the launch of an online portal for comprehensive company analysis including on-demand fundamental research, portfolio evaluation, and screening tools for publicly listed companies in Africa.

As previously reported on August 28, 2017, AnalytixInsight has entered into a content agreement with Ai to jointly create and launch an online platform for comprehensive company analysis, including on-demand fundamental research, portfolio evaluation, and screening tools on publicly listed companies in Africa.

This web portal will provide investors with data driven insights to evaluate and capitalize on opportunities offered within the African capital markets. The platform will be a premier source of financial data and analysis for 16 African exchanges, covering over 1,000 African equities, with an objective of providing domestic and offshore investors easy access to multiple African capital markets.

The web portal will be formally unveiled at the Ai CEO Institutional Investment Summit to be held on September 18-19 in New York. The summit is a unique CEO investor-issuer, invitation-only capital market leaders platform for global institutional investors and African sovereign wealth and pension fund investors to originate and intermediate capital market transactions in Africa.

Prakash Hariharan, AnalytixInsights Chairman and CEO, commented: We are excited about the platform and look forward to providing services to a variety of Africa centric institutions and investors that today already work with Ai, including stock exchanges, pension funds and corporations in Africa. Investors and financial institutions currently incur significant costs in gathering and analyzing financial data to take advantage of African opportunities. This Africa focused big data analytics platform, powered by AnalytixInsights technology, overcomes this challenge.

The lack of reliable and current analytical data on African listed companies is routinely cited by our intentional investment partners as a key barrier to investing in Africas public markets. We are therefore delighted to partner with AnalytixInsight and launch the Africa investor-AnalytixInsight AiAnalytix platform, which will empower global investors, domestic public companies and African stock exchanges through proven Big Data Analytics technology, said Hubert Danso, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of Africa investor.

ABOUT ANALYTIXINSIGHT INC. ()

AnalytixInsights artificial intelligence platform transforms data into narratives. AnalytixInsights online portal CapitalCube () algorithmically analyzes market price data and regulatory filings to create insightful, actionable narratives and research on approximately 50,000 global companies and ETFs, providing high-quality financial research and content for investors, information providers, finance portals and media. AnalytixInsight holds a 49% interest in Marketwall, a mobile platform for banking and stock trading (). AnalytixInsight owns Euclides Technologies Inc. (), a workflow analytics systems integrator.

ABOUT AFRICA INVESTOR ()

Africa investor is a specialist investment and communications group, advising institutional investors, pension funds, sovereign funds, governments, international organisations and businesses on strategies for capital market and foreign direct investments in Africa. Ais media division publishes Ai magazine, the leading international newsstand magazine for Africas investment decision makers; maintains the Ai 40 Investors Index, hosts the Ai CEO Institutional Investment Summit & Awards and the Ai CEO Infrastructure Investment Summit & Awards, among other events. Operating at the intersection of institutional investors, business, government, international organisations and the media, Ai group has a network of clients across Africa and globally.

Forward Looking Information:

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, statements regarding the partnership with Ai; the growth of the Companys business operations; the use of the Companys content by various parties; and the Companys ability to provide services to the African market. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of AnalytixInsight,, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the Companys technology and revenue generation; risks associated with operation in the technology sector; ability to successfully integrate new technology and employees; foreign operations risks; and other risks inherent in the technology industry. Although AnalytixInsight has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. AnalytixInsight does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Contacts:

For AnalytixInsight Inc.

Scott Urquhart

VP Corporate Development

(416) 522-3975

For Africa investor

Renee Montez

Head of Operations, Ai

+ 27117832431
Vancouvers finance and technology industries to meet at Extraordinary Future Conference

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA  (Marketwired)  09/18/17  Vancouvers finance and technology industries will meet at the Extraordinary Future Conference on September 20, 2017 at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

25 Canadian technology companies will showcase products and present their opportunities to the Vancouver investment community. The show will feature a trade show market place with live demos including a virtual reality village, battery technology solutions, blockchain applications and more, two stages streaming keynote talks and panel discussions and a private meeting concierge for investors and companies to meet one on one.

The VR Village will showcase 5 of Vancouvers most disruptive virtual and augmented reality companies, and is presented by the .

A two hour blockchain feature will be headlined by Alex Tapscott  Canadas most recognized authority on Blockchain technology. Tapscott recently closed a $20 Million fund to invest in blockchain focused businesses.

We are bridging the gap between Vancouvers technology and finance communities. There is an amazing amount of talent and innovation happening in Vancouver and investors are taking notice. We are showcasing success stories, up and comers, and accelerating the growth of Vancouvers innovation sector.  Jay Martin, CEO, Cambridge House

One such success story is Hamed Shahbazi; who sits at the apex of Canadian technology and entrepreneurship. Shahbazi started TIO Networks while he was in college and spent the next 20 years building the multinational payment processing company that provides convenience and access to the underbanked and underserved.

To cap off a highlight reel of growth, share performance, and acquisitions, TIO was acquired by Pay Pal earlier this year for $304 million CAD. Shahbazi will stay on as GM of PayPal Canada Bill Pay Service.

Hamed Shahbazi will discuss his journey and future in a fireside chat on the Extraordinary Future Conference main stage.

Extraordinary Future is produced by , Canadas undisputed leader in technology and mining investment conferences.

To learn more about the Extraordinary Future conference, please visit or call 604-687-4151.

Contacts:

Media inquiries:

Speaking Inquiries:
Solar Novus Today Has Been Integrated

With Novus Light Technologies Today

Visit Novus Light Technologies Today to see all the cutting-edge stories and products that you have come to enjoy on Solar Novus Today. In addition, you will find more information on related light-based technologies.



Get the latest solar and renewable energy news delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for the Green Technologies newsletter





CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR GREEN TECHNOLOGIES NEWSLETTER






























We rely on your support to make local news available to all

Make your contribution now and help Gothamist thrive in 2022. Donate today
'This will be the one of the most appreciated outdoor art pieces in Macomb County," said Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon.
Georgetown, SC (29440)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 58F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Low 49F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Optimization

Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should?

Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools.
Haifa is on the "front line" in any action in the north but this blog looks at life in the shadow of danger to all of Israel
The election is also expected to see significant gains by the Alternative for Germany party, which is almost certain to become the first far-right party to win seats in parliament in postwar German history. The party has run an Islamophobic, anti-immigrant campaign that has cast light on an uglier part of the German political sphere and on a segment of the voting population that no longer feels represented by the country's mainstream parties. The AfD, whose campaign has taken its cue from the "alt-right" movement in the United States, is likely to bring a style of debate into parliament that the German political class has successfully fought off for decades.
Schulz: (Former German President) Johannes Rau (of the SPD) had a wonderful sentence for us Social Democrats: We are the protectorate of normal people. Our task is that of making the lives of average income earners a little bit better every day. That is the opportunity the SPD has against a chancellor who avoids being pinned down and who gives the impression that she doesn't know how the majority of the population is doing.

DER SPIEGEL: Many Germans see the chancellor as being down-to-earth.

Schulz: It could be that she has this image. But her entire platform can be summed up in a single sentence: Trust me, everything will be fine. She isn't saying what she wants or what her vision is for the future of our country. It drives a lot of people crazy. They feel they are being patronized to.

The door opens and one of Schulz's bodyguards comes in carrying his black, synthetic-leather diary, imprinted with the logo of Germany's Sparkasse savings bank. The candidate opens it up and pages through it: "These diaries give me the invaluable ability to correctly recap my life."

DER SPIEGEL: Polls seem to indicate that many voters aren't as critical of the chancellor as you are. They are seeing authoritarian governments taking power all over the world and believe that Merkel is needed to help protect Western values.

Schulz: At the international level as well, she tries to avoid taking a position for as long as she possibly can. But you have to have a clear position when confronting a man like Donald Trump.

'We Must Take a Principled Stand'

DER SPIEGEL: But Merkel is doing that. She said: "The times in which we could completely rely on others are over to a certain extent."

Schulz: That is true. She received a lot of praise for that sentence. But it drives me nuts. What, exactly, does "a certain extent" mean? And what about "others?" Where are we? Donald Trump's brand of politics is leading the great nation of America into a dead-end. He triggers global crises with a single Tweet and insults entire sections of the population. That is not what we stand for. That's how I would have formulated it. A clear message, that is the only language that Trump and autocrats like Putin or Erdogan understand.

DER SPIEGEL: Merkel is proficient in the art of diplomacy. Are you denying that?

Schulz: I am also proficient in the art of diplomacy. But when our fundamental values are under attack, you can't reply with a carefully phrased statement. These people cannot be given the feeling that we Europeans will fall into line or even that we are afraid of this macho posing.

DER SPIEGEL: Erdogan, Putin, Trump: Are they all in the same category for you?

Schulz: Seehofer's friend Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary, has expressly thrown his support behind "illiberal democracy." In Ankara and Moscow, but also in Washington, many hold similar views. We must take a principled stand against these ideas. The autocrats hate our lifestyle, they have disdain for our enlightened liberalism and they belittle our refugee policies. You have to tell them: We have no room for your way of thinking.

DER SPIEGEL: Sigmar Gabriel, a fellow member of the SPD and Germany's current foreign minister, has a different approach. He is interested, for example, in making concessions to Putin and, under certain conditions, loosening the sanctions currently in place on Russia.

Schulz: Sigmar Gabriel and I are in agreement. The difference between Turkey and the Russian Federation is that Russia has a permanent veto in the United Nations Security Council. That makes realpolitik more difficult. Still, Putin must be clearly told that he must uphold his part of the agreement on the Ukraine conflict. Otherwise, we won't be able to lift the sanctions.

DER SPIEGEL: The election on Sept. 24 will mark a turning point for our country: For the first time, a right-wing populist party is likely to win seats in the federal parliament. What is your reaction?

Schulz: It makes me want to fight. We cannot leave any room for the enemies of democracy. For my entire political career, I have been fighting for a strong Europe and against the siren song of the right wing.

DER SPIEGEL: You have referred to the AfD as a "disgrace for Germany." Don't such comments serve to strengthen their group identity?

Schulz: They have that anyway. The leaders of the AfD are racists. You cannot make any concessions to them.

DER SPIEGEL: The established parties in Germany's parliament, the Bundestag, will soon be facing a practical question: How should parliamentarians deal with the AfD?

Schulz: That is a difficult one. I have had experience with such people in the European Parliament. Marine Le Pen, for example, once told me completely openly: Yes, of course I am here to do away with this place. And you're providing me with an official car to help me do so. That's how these people think.

DER SPIEGEL: What does that mean in practice?

Schulz: Bundestag rules and procedures will apply to the AfD as well. But it would be disastrous to cooperate with them in parliament -- as the CDU has already done in the state parliament of Saxony-Anhalt.

DER SPIEGEL: Do you think Germany's domestic intelligence service should maintain surveillance of the AfD or specific members of the AfD?

Schulz: The racist rhetoric that extends all the way to the top of the party shows that one must assume that an attitude is prevalent -- not just in the grassroots, but also among party leadership -- that is not consistent with the basic values reflected in our constitution.

DER SPIEGEL: The AfD also represents a huge problem for the SPD. In May state elections in North Rhine-Westphalia, hardly any party lost as many voters to the AfD as did the Social Democrats. Aren't you hitting your own people with your comments about the AfD?

Schulz: No. I believe it is important to stand up to the party's functionaries but we have to avoid hammering on its supporters. We have to fight for the support of every single voter.

DER SPIEGEL: Two years ago, Sigmar Gabriel went to an event held by PEGIDA, the Islamophobic group that has been holding demonstrations in Dresden and elsewhere since the fall of 2014.

Schulz: He went to a discussion at which PEGIDA supporters also were allowed to speak ...

DER SPIEGEL: ... and was heavily criticized for doing so by some in the SPD. Did he go too far?

Schulz: We have to listen to people who are attracted to the AfD. That isn't a mistake at all. You can also win them back. Of course, there are a lot of angry voters who are ideologically charged. But there are also a lot of quieter voters who plan on voting AfD to send a message. We can never give up on them.

DER SPIEGEL: When your candidacy was announced in January, your public approval ratings rose dramatically, before then falling just as dramatically. What is your explanation for that?

Schulz: Let me read you what I wrote on Feb. 17 as the poll numbers shot up (opens his diary and begins reading): "The SPD has risen by six percentage points. (...) In direct Schulz/Merkel comparison, I am at 49 to 38. That is a trend, but I doubt that it is lasting because such changes can't really happen in such a short amount of time" (closes his diary). From the very first day, I didn't trust the polls. But still, the desire for an alternative to Angela Merkel was clearly visible. The potential is there.

DER SPIEGEL: How much do you regret not taking a ministerial position in the government?

Schulz: Not at all. I could not credibly say that I wanted to replace Merkel if I was serving as one of her ministers. Certainly not if I had taken over a ministry on the same day I was nominated as a candidate for the Chancellery.

DER SPIEGEL: But look at Sigmar Gabriel. He wasn't particularly well-liked as head of the SPD, but he is very popular as foreign minister and speaks with an authority granted by his office -- an authority that you are lacking. The division of roles was wrong.

Schulz: No. Foreign ministers are always popular when they are not seen first and foremost as advocates for their own party. Guido Westerwelle was the least popular foreign minister because he abused the position of foreign minister to benefit his party, the Free Democrats (FDP). Sigmar Gabriel is as popular as he is because he is an excellent foreign minister and also has a clear position. But me? Governing the country with Merkel in the morning only to turn around in the afternoon and say that the coalition must be dissolved -- nobody would have understood such a thing. And more than anything, that would have been a violation of my principles.

DER SPIEGEL: The situation looks the same as it has always been: The SPD slaves away as Merkel's junior coalition partner but Merkel ends up getting credit for every success. Is that the curse of the grand coalition?

Schulz: We'll only know on Sept. 24. There are far too many voters who haven't yet made up their minds for us to be able to say how the election will turn out. I can see that at my campaign appearances: In front are those on whom I can depend, while in the back are the ones who haven't yet made up their minds -- but who ultimately join in. I am reaching the people.

DER SPIEGEL: It smells like a repeat of the grand coalition.

Schulz: That is nonsense. There is a systematic misconception of the CDU in Germany. Between the CDU's platform and our own, there is a trench the size of the Atlantic. But for years, the CDU has been trying to conceal it. The reality is: The CDU is a right-leaning party without a vision for the future. At the moment when it loses power, it will break apart.

DER SPIEGEL: But when you look at the four points you have promised to push through, they read like an invitation to the CDU to begin talks. Volker Kauder, conservative floor leader in parliament, has already said that the four points could easily be taken care of together.

Schulz: The four points are more of a divorce letter than an invitation.

DER SPIEGEL: Excuse us?

Schulz: Ms. Merkel is avoiding retirement issues. She simply doesn't want to do anything, although she knows that doing nothing means that real pensions will fall. That is preprogrammed old-age poverty. In response to our national education initiative, the chancellor said the federal government had already made enough money available. Another clear difference. And when it comes to wage fairness: It was Ms. Merkel herself who blocked the establishment of a right to return to a fulltime job after going part time for a period. Yet everyone keeps saying that our platform is identical to that of the conservatives. It's crazy.

DER SPIEGEL: Talking about the grand coalition seems to get you rather worked up. Why don't you come out and say that the SPD won't play the role of junior coalition partner under Merkel?

Schulz: Because I really don't have time at the moment for coalition debates. The voters will decide what the next parliament will look like. Those who wish to form a coalition with us can take a look at our platform and then they are more than welcome to talk to us.

DER SPIEGEL: In 2013, the SPD surveyed its members about forming a coalition with the conservatives. If there is an opportunity for the SPD to join the government in some form or another after the election, will you do the same thing this time around?

Schulz: Yes. The membership survey was a great moment for inner-party democracy. We can't go back, nor do we want to. Our members are pouring their hearts into this campaign. But people don't join the SPD just to put up posters. They join because they want to help steer the party.

DER SPIEGEL: Ahead of the 2013 election, then-SPD chancellor candidate Peer Steinbruck said that he would under no circumstances join a cabinet under Merkel's leadership. Why haven't you done the same thing?

Schulz: Because I want to become chancellor. Because we can't defend our liberalism, our prosperity, with sleeping-pill politics. I am convinced that I will be able to form a government following the election. You don't think so, I can see it in your faces. Of course. But I believe in it and that is what I am fighting for.

DER SPIEGEL: Mr. Schulz, we thank you for this interview.
Shaheed El-Hafed, Sept 18, 2017 (SPS) - The Permanent Bureau of the National Secretariat of the Polisario Front has welcomed the appointment of Mr. Horst Kohler as a Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General in Western Sahara, expressing the willingness of the Polisario Front to cooperate with him for the success of his mission.

In a statement sanctioned its meeting on Sunday under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic, Secretary-General of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, the Permanent Bureau of the National Secretariat of the Polisario Front, called on the United Nations to speed up the just and final solution of the question of Western Sahara through respect for the right of Sahrawis to self-determination and independence and implement the latest Security Council resolution (2351).

It also urged the permanent countries at the UN Security Council, particularly France and Spain, to assume responsibility in order to play an effective and decisive role in ending the decolonization process in the last colony in Africa.

The Permanent Bureau welcomed the steady position of the African Union and its unanimous defense of its founding charter and resolutions concerning the decolonization of Western Sahara.

It expressed, on behalf of the Saharawi people, gratitude for the favorable positions toward the Sahrawi just cause, expressed on all occasions by various countries, and organizations throughout the world, in particular the sisterly Republic of Algeria. (SPS)

062/090/TRA




Bir-Lehlu, Sep 18, 2017 (SPS) - The President of the Republic, Secreatry-General of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, addressed a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of Guatemala, His Excellency Jimmy Morales Cabrera, on the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of his country.

The President of the Republic expressed sincere congratulations to President Jimmy Morales Cabrera on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Guatemala, wishing more progress and well-being to the people of this sisterly Republic.

He also expressed the will of the SADR Government to further strengthen the ties between the two countries. (SPS)

062/090/TRA




This is an outstanding specialist tractor range designed by skilled engineers, offering the best business solution for vineyard, fruit, orchard and hill farmers. It represents a top quality, yet straightforward machine, providing high performance, superb fuel efficiency, extreme comfort and versatility.

An extended series of tractors offers ranges dedicated to each specialist farming category, and now includes a brand new Wide Fruit model with a wider chassis for greater stability, also ideal for hillside vineyards and livestock farms with sloping fields.

The MF 3700 Series offers extensive updates and improvements over its predecessor, the MF 3600 Xtra, which itself set new standards for specialist tractors.

Farmers whose high value crops and challenging terrain present additional demands will benefit from even higher levels of specification, which can be precisely tailored to meet their individual requirements, comments Campbell Scott, Director, Marketing Services Massey Ferguson Europe and Middle East. In addition they will benefit from the extensive knowhow of our specialist engineers who have worked extremely hard on this impressive new range

MF 3700 Series tractors are equipped for optimum performance with powerful four-cylinder, stage 3B new generation engines, increased hydraulic flow and the option of a fully integrated factory-fitted front linkage, PTO and front loader frame, allowing a wider range of specialist implements to be utilised.

Low operating costs are offered by the fuel efficient engines, extended 600hr service intervals, a bigger fuel tank, and an improved hood access for refuelling.

Operator comfort is assured during even high pressure planting and harvest periods with a quiet and spacious cab, easy to use controls, automated functions and easy access.

Forward visibility is enhanced by the lower bonnet height offered by fitting the emissions control system neatly at the side of the bonnet.

Purchasers can also benefit from the reliability offered by this well-established brand, and its use of tried and tested technology. The MF 3700 also gains the family styling with a new hood featuring the iconic MF signature.

The new MF 3700 Series features five ranges:

V = Vineyard  for use in traditional narrow vineyards, now benefiting from a top speed of 40kph

S = Special  for more open vineyards with a slightly wider chassis with a more spacious cab for the operator

F = Fruit  for use in more extensive vineyards and fruit orchards; a more substantial tractor with a wider front axle and a more spacious cab

G = Ground Effect - (low profile) for use under trees, in polytunnels and in canopied vineyards this version benefits from a wider front axle for even greater stability

Brand New WF = Wide Fruit  a wider tractor for use in orchards, also ideal for alpine farms, hillside vineyards and livestock operations. It offers a low centre of gravity and greater stability on slopes with a wider front and rear axle and a more spacious cab.

Key features

New generation common rail, stage 3B four-cylinder engine; powerful and fuel efficient

New Wide Fruit model with a wider chassis for greater stability. Ideal for hillside vineyards and livestock farms with sloping fields

More powerful 120l/min hydraulic flow option for greater efficiency when operating loaders, pruners and trimmers

Low bonnet height providing better forward visibility for the driver due to DOC being positioned outside of bonnet

New factory fitted loader subframe, front PTO and front linkage for improved integration

New four-wheel drive sensor offering automatic engagement and disengagement of the four-wheel drive when the steering wheel is turned at a pre-set angle for ease of use at the headland

New transmission controls on the gear lever and joystick  clutch, transmission and implement control  making this tractor easy to use

New electrohydraulic spool valve lock switch for ease of use

New fuel tank access on top of bonnet

Extended service interval of 600 hours so reducing costs and downtime

New contemporary styling with a new hood shape in keeping with the MF family look

Spacious cab with easy access and a new modern dashboard

New work lights for better lighting at night

New engines deliver greater power and efficiency

The MF 3700 Series is powered by new generation Stage 3B four-cylinder engines from 75 to 105hp, delivering more power and torque. These Common Rail engines offer two engine rpm memories, allowing preferred engine speeds to be set for easier driving.

The redesigned power system layout now places the emissions control system outside the bonnet, allowing it to be lower, which improves the drivers forward visibility.

A larger 74 litre fuel tank and optional additional 30 litre fuel tank minimises downtime for refuelling, and fuel tank access is now on the top of the bonnet, further speeding refuelling, and giving easier access when a front implement is fitted.

The new engines offer longer service intervals of 600hr for reduced service costs and downtime.
Barbie is a well-traveled lady, and she just gave two Fairfield County landmarks her stamp of approval.

Via the official Instagram account, @BarbieStyle, 1.8 million followers get a glimpse into all the fabulous trips Barbie takes.

And she only visits the trendiest locations. In the past month, Barbie has traveled from her home in Malibu, to New York City for fashion week and the Catskills. Today, she made a pit stop in Connecticut to visit the Philip Johnson Glass House in New Canaan and the Brant Foundation Art Study Center in Greenwich.

The Instgaram account was created in 2015 as a "pet project" of Barbie's director of design Robert Best, and Zlatan Zukanovic, according to Racked.

"The team settled on making @BarbieStyle entirely narrative and from the point of view of a "contemporary girl with an aspirational lifestyle.' This wouldn't be an account for kids or parents, but rather for trendy twentysomethings who very possibly hadn't touched a Barbie in a couple of decades," Racked reported in 2015.
Angela Cooper arrived home from work to discover that her daughter's temperature had spiked to 102 degrees, a sign that the teenager, who has cancer, had a potentially deadly bloodstream infection. As Cooper rushed her daughter to the hospital, her mind raced: Had she done something to cause the infection?

Cooper, who works at a Chevy dealership in Iowa, has no medical background. She is one of thousands of parents who perform a daunting medical task at home - caring for a child's catheter, called a central line, that is inserted in the arm or torso to make it easier to draw blood or administer drugs.

Central lines, standard for children with cancer, lead directly to a large vein near the heart. They allow patients with cancer and other conditions to leave the hospital and receive antibiotics, liquid nutrition and even chemotherapy at home. But families must perform daily maintenance that, if done incorrectly, can lead to blood clots, infections and even death.

As more medical care shifts from hospital to home, families take on more complex, risky medical tasks for their loved ones. But hospitals have not done enough to help these families, said Amy Billett, director of quality and safety at the cancer and blood disorders center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Hospital.

"The patient-safety movement has almost fully focused all of its energy and efforts on what happens in the hospital," she said. That's partly because the federal government does not require anyone to monitor infections that patients get at home.

Even at the well-resourced, Harvard-affiliated cancer center, parents told Billett in a survey that they did not get enough training and did not have full confidence in their ability to care for their child at home.

The center was overwhelming parents by waiting until the last minute to inundate them with instructions - some of them contradictory - on what to do at home, Billett said.

An external central line, which has an end that lies outside the body, must be cleaned every day. Caregivers have to scrub the hub at the end of the line for 15 seconds, then flush it with a syringe full of saline or anticoagulant.

If caregivers don't scrub properly, they can flush bacteria into the tube, and - whoosh - the bacteria enter a major vein close to the heart, Billett said. One father, noting that the hub looked dirty, scrubbed it with a pencil eraser, sending three types of bacteria into his child's bloodstream, she said.

- - -

Monitoring infections

Learning the cleaning steps was "very nerve-racking," recalled Cooper, whose 18-year-old daughter, Jaycee Gray, has had a central line since April to receive treatment for a rare type of blood cancer.

"You can scrub and scrub and scrub, and it doesn't feel like it's clean enough," she said. Parents must keep track of other rules, too, such as covering up the central line before the child gets into the shower and changing the dressing if it gets dirty or wet.

Bloodstream infections associated with central lines lead to thousands of deaths each year inside hospitals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Research has also shown that these infections are largely preventable: Hospitals have slashed infection rates when staff follow the CDC's standardized safety steps.

But researchers recently discovered that more children with central lines are getting bloodstream infections at home: In a three-year study of children with cancer and blood disorders at 15 hospitals, 716 such infections took place outside the hospital, compared with 397 inpatient infections. This was partly because children with central lines spend much more time outside hospitals than inside them.

These hospitals belong to a national collaborative of 20 pediatric cancer centers that aims to train families, visiting nurses and clinic staff on how to handle central lines.

At one of the hospitals, Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, researchers discovered that patients as young as 8 were cleaning their own central lines at home, even though the hospital had designed its training materials for adults.

Cooper said that when her daughter developed the fever in July, she immediately started wondering if she were to blame: "It's really hard," she said. "I don't want to put her in the hospital."

When doctors confirmed that Jaycee had a bloodstream infection, Cooper asked them what caused it. Days later, after interviews and tests, no one knew for sure.

Jaycee was transferred to Children's Hospital & Medical Center in Omaha, one of the other hospitals in the collaborative, where nurse Amanda Willits works with families to identify the likely causes of infections and to practice safe techniques. Willits said the bacteria probably came through the skin, but there is no sign that Cooper was to blame, and Cooper demonstrated her line-care technique perfectly.

Jaycee spent four days in an isolated room at the hospital. Doctors warned her that if the bacteria had colonized the plastic of her central line, she might have to go through surgery to have it removed and replaced.

As it turned out, Jaycee didn't need surgery; she recovered with antibiotics.

In a small study published last year, about four out of 10 children who got these infections needed to have their lines surgically removed.

In that study, pediatric oncologist Chris Wong Quiles of Dana-Farber/Boston Children's tackled basic questions that researchers don't have national data on: When patients get these infections at home, what happens to them, what does it cost and how often do they die?

Wong Quiles found that in 15 percent of cases, children ended up in the intensive care unit. Four children died. Their median hospital stay was six days, and their median age was 3.

These episodes also cost a lot. Wong Quiles found that median hospital charges were $37,000 per infection. That's not counting professional fees from hospital staff; the cost of going home with antibiotics and possibly nursing care; or the cost to families of losing days of work to be at the hospital with their kids.

- - -

In Boston, Billett and Wong Quiles have enlisted extra staff and resources to try to help parents. The hospital hired what is called a "checklist engineer" to clean up inconsistent messaging and created family-focused videos, flip charts and pocket-size brochures about handling central lines.

Now, patients and families start learning central-line care five to 10 days before discharge, instead of just one or two days, Billett said. Parents first practice on a dummy called Chester Chest, then demonstrate their skills on their child.

Even after this training, bringing a child with cancer out of the hospital felt scary, said Megan Kelley, whose 8-year-old daughter, Bridget, is being treated there for leukemia.

"It felt like bringing a newborn baby home - we've never done this before," said Kelley, who lives in Quincy, Massachusetts, with her husband, Dan, and their three daughters.

Bridget and her family have managed to avoid infection since she was first discharged in December.

Along the way, the family got support and was spot-checked: The hospital keeps track of who was trained and that person's skill level, and sends a nurse home to see how the caregiver handles the line.

This approach to patient safety - helping families at home through standardized learning tools, hands-on training and tracking skill development - could have broad applications for caregivers of patients young and old, Billett said.

Some early work at Johns Hopkins has shown success: The hospital found a dramatic reduction in outpatient bloodstream infection rates after it trained families, home health nurses and clinic staff.

These infections "can exact such a harsh toll on some of our most vulnerable patients," said Michael Rinke, who led that research and now works at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. "Preventing even one of these can help a kid have an important out-of-hospital time, and have an important being-a-kid experience."

- - -

Kaiser Health News, a nonprofit health newsroom whose articles appear nationwide, is an editorially independent part of the Kaiser Family Foundation.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

HARTFORD  The seemingly endless state budget battle of 2017 took a slight breather on Monday, as lawmakers allowed the promise of a governors veto to sink in, following the weekends stunning victory for minority Republicans.

Democratic House and Senate leaders, who watched a few members of their slim majorities defect on Friday and early Saturday, joined Gov. Dannel P. Malloy in criticizing major spending cuts to higher education and transportation programs in the GOP plan.

But Democrats and Republicans agreed the Republican plan approved about 3:15 a.m. on Saturday  while the target of a promised veto when the bill reaches Malloys desk  would become a focus of the next round of bipartisan talks toward a potential compromise.

Malloy said he would attempt to review the pending budget document for items that can be culled, for use in what he hopes to be a final round of bipartisan talks to approve the nations last unfinished state budget of the year.

While I understand enough about the bill already to know that I will veto it, this is a document that was passed out of the General Assembly, and I owe it to the legislators who voted for it, and to the people of Connecticut, to give it a full vetting, Malloy said during a mid-afternoon news conference.

Document in transit

Malloy opposes much of the budget plan, including the underfunding of state employee pensions and cuts to state colleges and universities.

It does not send adequate aid to Hartford, he said, making its fiscal situation all the more precarious.

Malloy said it also ignores the states need for expanded transportation infrastructure funding.

The actual budget bill, hundreds of pages of numbers, dollar signs and legalese, was trundled Monday morning from the House Clerks Office in the Capitol, by elevator and underground walkway, to the Legislative Commissioners Office on the fifth floor of the nearby Legislative Office Building.

There, nonpartisan attorneys will review the document, which passed the Senate 21-15 Friday afternoon, and 77-73 vote in the House early Saturday. After the LCO lawyers review the package, it will go back to the Senate clerk and House clerk for their signatures, then finally to Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, who will present the legislation to the governor.

The governor will have five days in which to act. If Malloy rejects the bill, it will return to Merrill with a veto message. State law allows Malloy to veto the bill, sign it into law, sign it into law with line-item vetoes or let it lapse into law.

The successful Republican budget vote came with the help of three Democratic senators, including Sen. Gayle S. Slossberg, of Milford. Five House Democrats sided with Republicans, including Rep. Kim Rose, of Milford, and Rep. Lonnie Reed, of Branford.

Hopes for a finish line

Since the start of the fiscal year July 1, the state has run on a bare-bones executive order from Malloy.

Legislative leaders said they are prepared for what might be the final round of negotiations in what is a record-long legislative year.

We look forward to it, said Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven. I think its a good first step, and then we can see where we go from there. Fasano told reporters Monday in the Capitol.

Fasano believes that now there will be a louder GOP voice in bargaining talks. I got the sense during budget negotiations that they could ignore some of the things we say and still move forward on their ideas, he said. I think there is a waking up in the building that those days are over, and I think thats a good thing.

Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, D-New Haven, said the Democrats who voted with GOP lawmakers voted to drastically cut University of Connecticut and other state university and community colleges, erase scholarship aid for low-and-moderate-income students and abandon Hartford to bankruptcy.

However, given the outcome in the state Senate on Friday and in the House of Representatives on Saturday morning  and given Gov. Malloys welcome veto commitment  we must renew our dedication to bipartisan negotiations in a final push to adopt a budget by Oct. 1 to forestall the consequences of the governors proposed executive order, Looney said.

Bipartisanship is what the voters called for last November, and that message rings truer and louder today, said Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin. There is no more room or time for political posturing. The Republican budget is clearly not the answer, but there is momentum and the reality is that the parties are not that far apart.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
The Health Resources and Services Administration awarded $2,666,359 to 16 health centers in Connecticut to increase access to substance abuse and mental health services.

Those receiving funds include the Norwalk Community Health Center, the Connecticut Institute for Communities in Danbury, Family Centers Inc., in Greenwich, and the Optimus Healthcare and Southwest Community Health Center, both in Bridgeport.

No corner of our country, from rural areas to urban centers, has escaped the scourge of the opioid crisis, said HHS Secretary Dr. Tom Price in a news release. These grants from HRSA go directly to local organizations, which are best situated to address substance abuse and mental health issues in their own communities.

Approximately the funds will help the selected health centers support the expansion and integration of mental health services and substance abuse services. These services focus on the treatment, prevention, and awareness of opioid abuse in the primary care setting by increasing personnel, leveraging health information technology, and providing training.

The expanded funding is part of the Department of Health and Human Services five-point strategy to fight the opioid epidemic by improving access to treatment and recovery services; targeting use of overdose-reversing drugs; strengthening our understanding of the epidemic through better public health surveillance; roviding support for cutting-edge research on pain and addiction and advancing better practices for pain management.

Nationally, about half of all care for common mental health conditions happens in the primary care settings, said HRSA Administrator George Sigounas, in a release. In health centers, where people are often most comfortable, staff with varied expertise have a unique opportunity to provide mental health and substance abuse services to patients who wouldnt otherwise seek or have access to treatment.

Nationwide, HRSA awarded more than $200 million to 1,178 health centers.
A white University of Kentucky student accused of physically assaulting a Black student worker while repeatedly using racial slurs says she will withdraw from the school. The decision announced Tuesday by a lawyer for 22-year-old Sophia Rosing came after hundreds of students rallied on campus the night before. News outlets report the students called for unity and for the university to quickly address the situation. Officials say Rosing has been charged with assault, public intoxication and disorderly conduct. She pleaded not guilty during an arraignment Monday afternoon. The altercation at Boyd Hall was captured on video and posted to multiple social media platforms.
The European Commission's DG Regio's Head of Unit for Romania, Carsten Rassmussen expressed his support, voicing optimism regarding a stepping up of the European funds' absorption and a better management of these funds by the Government through strengthening cooperation with the local and regional authorities, but added that, from the figures' point of view, Romania so far has a "long line of zeroes."

Carsten Rassmussen participated on Monday, in the western city of Cluj-Napoca, in the "Regio Days", an event organised by the North-West National Development Agency (ADRNV). For three days, a large delegation with the European Parliament will visit, alongside members of the European Commission and local authorities, projects achieved in Transylvania with EU funds.

They come to judge us and learn from us. I speak in the plural because if Romania is successful, the Commission is successful. If you fail, we also fail. We believe that things are good, but the figures we've got are in fact a long line of zeroes. (...) These data show, actually, how the management is doing. A few payments were made, but we have to be careful. What matters right now is to see how many projects you could sign, rd 8 pct at national level. 8 pct is way too scarce. You must place somewhere else. We have a EUR 958 million target to spend, and now the projects vary at about EUR 500 million. The challenge is to sign much more projects. Hope is that it could happen, but it will be rather difficult to attain those targets we want, Carsten Rassmussen said.

In his speech, Rassmussen said there is not much to show to the European Parliament, but declared himself confident in Romania's chances of success to overcome this difficult moment. Rassmussen mentioned some of the problems he blames for this stalemate of Romania in its attempt to absorb the EU funds. Never before have I seen a country with so many talents, so many good technicians and in the end with such a petty outcome. This fall we'll make it, we'll have several projects, we'll have several projects signed, we'll pass through the implementation stage and will be more optimistic in the future. We have to work more at the implementation system. We have many rules that do not fit. This is what we call "gold plating". The system must be simplified. Sometimes, the rules passed by the Parliament, by the Council, by the Commission are not easy to be enforced, but they do not compare with what the Romanian government does. Not just one, but the successive governments. Each government has added something. Some things should be canceled since they are not necessary. This actually means cooperation between government and local and regional authorities. Hopefully in then end we'll let the people work, we have to trust each other, Carsten Rassmussen said.

Also participated in the debate on Monday, organised at the Casino Urban Culture Centre in the Central Park of Cluj-Napoca, a building restored with EU funds, the managing director of ADRNV, Marcel Bolos, the mayor of Cluj-Napoca, Emil Boc, the head of the REGI Committee with the European Parliament, Lambert von Nistelrooij, as well as other members of the Commission or of the local authorities in Transylvania.

Agerpres.
Recently, the implementation of macro-regional strategies and their future post-2020 is on the agenda of the European institutions. For our country, the European Union's Strategy for the Danube Region is of major interest. This strategy was, in 2008, a political initiative of Romania and Austria, with the aim of fostering a concerted and coherent development of the states bordering the river.

Nine EU Member States (Austria, Romania, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Hungary) and five non-EU countries (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Moldova and Ukraine) participate in this strategy. The strategy finances projects that have the following objectives: interconnecting the Danube region (improving mobility and multi-modality, encouraging sustainable energy, promoting culture and tourism), protecting the environment (restoring and maintaining water quality, managing environmental risks, preserving biodiversity), improvement of prosperity (development of the knowledge-based society through research, support for the competitiveness of enterprises, etc.) and, finally, the consolidation of the Danube region (improvement of institutional capacity and cooperation, promotion of security and solving problems related to organized criminality and serious crime).

The particularity of these macro-regional strategies is that they do not have a separate budget; the participating states have to use existing funding (European funds, loans from international financial institutions, national funds, etc.). Romania has tried to develop, within the operational programs, mechanisms favouring projects labelled as relevant for the Danube Strategy, either by running separate calls for projects or by awarding additional scores in the final evaluation of projects.

However, there are difficulties in implementation because the Danube Strategy is not an operational program itself, with its own rules, staff and funding. Basically, the strategy is a set of objectives that are being achieved through projects funded under other programs. Besides that, there are 14 participating states at the strategy, with different levels of development and access to funding, with different levels of political support and resources that need to be correlated.

The Committee on Regional Development within the European Parliament, of which I am a member, has drawn up a report on the implementation of EU macro-regional strategies, including on the EU Strategy for the Danube Region. Given the importance of this strategy for Romania, I considered it necessary to formulate a series of amendments to improve the framework for future actions. Thus, I proposed the following:

- to increase financial resources, involving the private sector, and to strengthen administrative capacity to manage the implementation and coordination of the strategy;

- to strengthen the role of macro-regional strategies in post-2020 framework regulations;

- to improve national coordination mechanisms and increase the involvement of all economic and social partners and civil society in order to provide added value to the strategy;

- to coordinate the financial resources available at different levels and to increase efforts to involve the private sector, as well as the use of other financial instruments to finance projects under the strategy.

Finally yet importantly, I proposed the launch of a new macro-regional strategy for the Carpathian region in order to better capitalize on the potential of the Carpathian Mountains.

The submission of these amendments is a follow-up of my efforts to promote the Danube and the Danube Delta. In this context I have organized in June, at Dunavatul de Jos, the conference on The Importance of the Danube Delta in the European Ecosystem ". Let us not forget that the Danube Delta, "the greatest treasure with which nature has endowed our country" (Grigore Antipa), has been on the UNESCO World Heritage for more than 25 years and it was established as a biosphere reserve.

Analysis by Laurentiu Rebega, Member of European Parliament

Parlamentul European nu este responsabil de continutul acestui articol. Articolul este subventionat din bugetul 400 al Grupului ENL.
Former honorary Chairman of the National Liberal Party (PNL) Mircea Ionescu Quintus, passed away aged 100, was accompanied on his last road, Monday afternoon, by hundreds of people, being interred with military honours at Viisoara cemetery in Ploiesti, Prahova county.

The funeral service began around noon at the "Annunciation" Church, located near the deceased's home. Attending the one-hour funeral service were Senate President, Senator Calin Popescu-Tariceanu, Deputy Prime Minister Gratiela Gavrilescu, PNL Chairman Ludovic Orban and political party delegates.The coffin with the deceased was covered with the tricolour flag and was carried out of the church by gendarmes. The funeral corps procession passed by and for a few minutes stoped in front of the Quintus family home, of the "Ion Ionescu Quintus" Art Museum established in the building that used to be family home of the former senior liberal and in front of the Administrative Palace, then headed for the cemetery.Both in the church and on the route to the cemetery the police and the gendarmes assured the order and created a special lane so that the funeral procession would not be held in traffic.Mircea Ionescu Quintus was buried with military honours, and at the end of the ceremony the tricolour flag wrapping the coffin was handed over to the deceased's family.
It may be snowing outside, but dont worry. The sun will come out Thursday when Helena's two AA high schools put on Annie for their annual crosstown musical.
Updated at 9:22 a.m.

FALLS CHURCH, Va.  Northrop Grumman is buying Orbital ATK for about $7.8 billion, with a backdrop of rising global tensions accelerating big deals in the defense sector.

Earlier this month, United Technologies said it would pay $22.75 billion for defense contractor Rockwell Collins.

Legislation is expected to pass easily Monday pumping $700 billion into the Pentagon budget as the U.S. responds to growing hostility from North Korea.

The U.S. military on Monday flew advanced bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula and near Japan, three days after North Korea fired a missile over Japan.

Saudi Arabia has a pending deal to acquire $500 million in precision-guided munitions from the U.S., part of a proposed $110 billion arms package to Riyadh, which is enmeshed in a civil war in Yemen. A Saudi-led coalition, which is supported by the United States, has been carrying out airstrikes in Yemen since March 2015.

The acquisition of Orbital would strengthen Northrop Grumman's capabilities in military aircraft technology and missile defense. Orbital ATK makes launch vehicles and their propulsion systems, missile technology, defense electronics, precision weapons, armament systems and ammunition. It also builds up Northrop's space operations with Orbital's satellites and advanced aerospace structures.

Orbital ATK shareholders will receive $134.50 per share, a 22 percent premium to the company's Friday closing price of $110.04. The deal's total value is approximately $9.2 billion, including debt.

Shares of Orbital ATK surged 22 percent at the opening bell Monday in a year when the stock of most major defense contractors have hit all-time highs as clashes escalate.

Rockwell Collins Inc., Boeing Co., Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Co., Lockheed Martin Corp. and Honeywell International Inc., have reached unprecedented heights in 2017.

Northrop Grumman Corp., which is based in Falls Church, Va., said that after the deal closes, Orbital ATK Inc., based in Dulles, Va., will become a separate sector within its business operations.

The boards of both companies have approved the deal and it's expected to close in the first half of next year.
Ray, of the 1100 block of Jennings Station Road, was accused of taking a female cousin, then 8, to the Hardee's in the 10200 block of Big Bend Road after hours, blocking her in a bathroom and sexually assaulting her in 2006. Charges said he sent a text message to her mother denying the allegations but "saying he was sorry if a demon took over him and if he did touch his cousin."
JEFFERSON CITY  A Springfield businesswoman says she was booted off the state school board by Gov. Eric Greitens because she wouldnt agree with his request to oust the states top schools official.

In a letter to her former colleagues on the Missouri State Board of Education, Melissa Gelner said an aide to the Republican governor asked that she vote to remove Education Commissioner Margie Vandeven when the board meets Tuesday.

According to the one-page letter obtained by the Post-Dispatch on Monday, the first-year governor withdrew Gelners late July appointment to the board on Friday because she would not commit to removing the commissioner.

Gelner, who is involved with Springfield-based programs that serve children, had been among four new members of the board that Greitens is trying to remake in his first year in office. She had not yet been confirmed by the Senate.

Gelner was quickly replaced by a fellow Springfield resident, Heidi Crane, the chief financial officer of Copy Products Inc. Cranes husband, Erik, gave at least $1,250 to Greitens campaign last year. Greitens says she is an independent.

The move brings the board to a full contingent of eight members, with half appointed by former Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon and half appointed by Greitens, a Republican. State law prohibits the state board from having more than four members of the same political party; the board now has four Republicans, three Democrats and one independent.

One of the new members, Eddy Justice of Poplar Bluff, said he was unaware of any push by Greitens to remove Vandeven.

I have been in contact with the governors office multiple times since my appointment, and I have received exactly zero pressure from the governors office, Justice told the Post-Dispatch.

The boards primary duty is selecting the states commissioner of education. In her letter, Gelner said Greitens special adviser, Nick Maddux, requested her vote to fire Vandeven and quickly replace her with a new-to-the-state candidate recommended by the governor without an open process.

In short, I was surprised by this request, Gelner wrote.  Commissioner Vandevens work had been praised by most others I spoke with in the education field.

The pressure also surprised former board member Peter Herschend, whom Gelner had replaced.

In 26 years, Ive served with seven governors and not one time did I have a call from the governor or the governors office to say do something, The Associated Press reported. I had calls saying This is our position, and that youd expect.

Vandeven was appointed Missouris sixth Commissioner of Education by the State Board of Education in December 2014. She is a former communication arts and English teacher and served as an administrator in Maryland. Vandeven is currently earning $191,544, according to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

In the letter, Gelner said Maddux told her she may be reassigned to a new role if she did not change her mind on removing Vandeven.

I can only assume that other board members received similar calls to action. As the possibility of this important vote at tomorrows board meeting nears, I encourage each of you to make an independent and thoughtful decision on Tuesday, Gelner wrote.

A lot of young minds are counting on you, and they each matter much more than direction from a member of the governors staff, she added.

The agenda for the meeting does not contain any direct reference to a vote to remove Vandeven from her post, but the board is scheduled go into a closed meeting, where it could act on personnel matters.

Greitens has said he wants to expand charter schools in Missouri and has supported creating education savings accounts for certain students. A spokesman could not be reached for comment Monday.

Maddux, who earns $110,000 annually, formerly worked as the campaign manager for Catherine Hanaway, who lost to Greitens in the four-way Republican primary race for governor last year. Maddux also served as a campaign manager for U.S. Rep. Billy Long, a Republican from Springfield.

The dust-up with Gelner isnt the first turbulence the first-year governor has experienced in his attempt to restock the board.

In August, Delbert Scott, the president of Kansas Christian College, turned down his appointment to the board after learning that state law forbids members to have connections with specific schools.

Kristen Taketa of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
ST. LOUIS  Police made more than 80 arrests downtown Sunday night after violence erupted following hours of peaceful protesting.

It marked the third night of violence following the Friday acquittal of former St. Louis Police officer Jason Stockley, charged with murdering a black drug suspect.

Around 1 a.m. Monday, Mayor Lyda Krewson and Interim Police Chief Lawrence O'Toole held a brief press conference.

"For the third day in a row, the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive," Krewson said. "This is unacceptable. Destruction cannot be tolerated."

O'Toole said "criminals" set out to break and destroy property and, as a result, landed in jail.

"I'm proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight," O'Toole said.

Shortly after the arrests, at Tucker Boulevard and Washington Avenue, police officers were heard by reporters chanting "Whose streets? Our streets," commandeering a common refrain used by protesters.

O'Toole said some officers were assaulted with chemicals and rocks, listing the injuries of the officers as minor and moderate.

"We're in control. This is our city and we're going to protect it," O'Toole said.

Police recovered at least five weapons during the arrests, the chief said.

The mayor and chief did not take questions from the media.

"I'm now leaving to assess the damaged area," O'Toole said.

Earlier, before nightfall, about 1,000 people gathered outside the St. Louis Police Department in the Downtown West neighborhood and marched into Midtown before circling back to police headquarters at 19th and Olive streets.

The protests started peacefully but by 8 p.m., a small group had marched downtown, breaking several windows in the Marriott hotel on Washington Avenue and at other nearby businesses, including at Olive and 10th streets. A sushi restaurant, a nail salon and an optician's shop were among those hit. Concrete planters were knocked over and trash cans tossed into the street.

Police made at least a half dozen arrests after that, but the majority came about 11:30 p.m., after police said people ignored several warnings over about an hour's time to leave.

Officers, many of them armed in riot gear, forced dozens of protesters into the intersection of Washington Avenue and Tucker Boulevard. "Move back!" the police yelled in unison, as they corralled the lingering protesters and media.

Among those caught in the sweep was Post-Dispatch reporter Mike Faulk, who had been covering the protest and its aftermath all evening. Also taken into custody was Jon Ziegler, who goes by the Twitter name Rebelutionary Z and has been live streaming the protests.

A bicycle officer suffered a leg injury during the earlier police response. There were no details on how he was hurt, but he was loaded into an ambulance and taken to a hospital. Police said they were non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said several St. Louis County officers had some unknown chemical thrown on them, as police have reported during previous days of protest.

For a time, a line of police in riot gear stood across Tucker at Washington, facing small groups of protesters to the north. Things stayed calm there and police eventually reopened the roads, though there was later another face-off a block or two south at Tucker and Locust Street. Police pushed groups of protesters who wouldn't disperse to the corner of Washington and Tucker, where they made arrests.

There was a car crash about 10 p.m. at Olive and Seventh streets, though it was not immediately clear whether it was connected to the mayhem downtown. Police said a speeding car hit an innocent motorist; officers found guns, drugs and a mask inside the first car, they said.

The vandalism began about 90 minutes after a leader of the protesters said the group had met its objective of bringing a large, diverse group of people out to peacefully assemble.

"We met our goal. We are dispersing," said Pastor Doug Hollis about 6:30 p.m. "This was a great, peaceful protest. That's what we want."

But many protesters remained in the area as night fell. There was a tense period after a car  an unmarked police vehicle  backed quickly through part of the crowd. No one appeared to be hit or injured, but protesters were angry about it. Police said some bottles were thrown at officers after that incident.

Police said officers had stopped a car near police headquarters and arrested the driver for assault and the passenger for making a terrorist threat. A third person began throwing rocks at officers, police said. He was arrested and put in the unmarked police car, a Chevrolet Impala. They released a video that shows part of the encounter.

"The crowd started moving in a threatening manner toward the Impala and because of road closures, the car could not go forward," police said in a statement. "The officer driving the blue Impala backed down the street to safety."

'Die-in' outside police headquarters

Protesters of all ages and races formed lines in front of the barricaded police headquarters at 1915 Olive Street beginning about 3 p.m. Demonstrators banged drums, held up "Black Lives Matter" signs and chanted "stop killing us" and "no justice, no peace."

By 4:30 p.m., protesters staged a "die-in," lying on the street in front of the police station as if dead and then marched west on Olive Street into Midtown and through St. Louis University's campus as students watched from their dormitory balconies.

Hollis, one of the protest leaders, apologized to the stores vandalized in the Delmar Loop Saturday night and the Central West End on Friday, blaming the damage on "stragglers."

"We're not apologizing for protesting, but we are apologizing for the people that were not part of the peaceful protest," Hollis said.

Stockley, who is white, was found not guilty of first-degree murder Friday after an August bench trial in the 2011 shooting of drug suspect Anthony Lamar Smith, who was black. Prosecutors alleged Stockley executed Smith following a car chase and then planted a gun in his car. Stockley maintained that Smith reached for the gun and that he shot Smith in self defense.

Anthony Lamar Smith's mother, Annie Smith, was also among the protesters Sunday.

State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr., who was a frequent protester in Ferguson in 2014 before he was elected to office last year, said the protest's message was simple: "Yall gon' stop killing us: Thats the only message.

Ashley Jost, Bryce Gray, Robert Patrick, Mike Faulk, Jesse Bogan, Erin Heffernan and Doug Moore of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
A Missoula defense attorney says the comments she made about a 13-year-old sexual assault victim during a client's sentencing hearing last week came only after she felt the judge had opened the door to them.

Lisa Kauffman said a Missoulian story about the hearing painted her unfairly because it did not say that District Court Judge Robert Dusty Deschamps was the first person to use the word temptress in the courtroom  something she said led her to present additional information about the girl in hopes of securing a lesser punishment for her client.

On Monday, during sentencing for a man who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a 13-year-old patient at the teen addiction recovery center where he worked, Kauffman told the judge he should see pictures of the victim, and that she looks and acts like shes 18 years old. And I think thats important.

I should bring a picture of her and makeup and her hair and her breasts, Kauffman said, according to the official transcript from the hearing.

Kauffman said Thursday those statements came only after she felt Deschamps opened the door to including other evidence about the victim and implied it might sway him into a lighter sentence. She said the comments were her doing her job.

I am comfortable saying things that are unpopular if its best for my client, she said. My point wasnt to re-victimize her, my point was to get him a lesser sentence.

Missoula attorney Peter Lacny, who heads the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, said the duty for zealous representation of a client is something all criminal defense attorneys take seriously.

If the mitigating factors are ones that could be calculated to change the judges mind you have to do it. You have a responsibility, he said.

What Kauffman said she saw as the judge opening the door started with a statement by Deschamps  who said he thought that the defendant had done more than he'd admitted to. Kauffman responded So what if he had sex with her? saying that didnt change whether the man could be eligible for a deferred sentence or treatment in the community instead of incarceration.

I tell you what,'' Deschamps said, according to the official court transcript. "I tell you what would make the difference here, would be if she was some temptress that raped him and now hes  hes, you know because he was a victim but the perpetrator happened to be underage, you know, that might make a difference.

"But short of that, I dont know that anything would make a difference, the judge said.

If I even (alluded) to the possibility that a 13-year-old could somehow be a seductive temptress Kauffman began to respond, before being cut off by the judge, who said, I think it could happen.

Well, of course you and I both know that, Kauffman replied. But every womens rights group in this country would be all over you and me. Were not allowed to talk like that anymore.

After an interjection by prosecutor Brian Lowney that he found the conversation between Kauffman and the judge offensive, Kauffman went on to make the remarks about the girls appearance, how old she acted, and that she told the defense team in an interview the encounter had been mutual.

Kauffman had argued earlier in the hearing that "I just think our attitude surrounding sex and sexuality often ends up with the guy going to prison when theres a lot of other contributing factors.

She also said the girls at the treatment center may have "acted out sexually" as a part of their trauma.

"And I'm not blaming the victim here. I'm just saying you have to put all that together in terms of the way they presented themselves," she said.

Deschamps said Friday that in rereading a copy of the court transcript, he can understand that Kauffman took his comment as an invitation to present information about the 13-year-old victim, but said that wasnt what he meant.

That wasnt my intention. I thought I was just saying I could see a situation. The only way I could see giving a deferred or even a suspended sentence was if this guy was raped by an underage person, but I didnt think that was the case here, the judge said. The Legislature wouldnt have even allowed judges to give deferred sentences unless there was some sort of fact pattern.

***

In sentencing hearings, attorneys present the aggravating or mitigating circumstances that can determine where in the range of available sentencing options a defendant will end up.

Kauffman said Thursday she was surprised when Deschamps used the term "temptress," but took the statement as him being willing to lean in her clients favor if presented with more information about the girl. She said she had a professional obligation to try to capitalize on that opening for her client, but said there were still limits to what she felt was fair game.

I had additional information that may have painted the 13-year-old in an unfavorable light and I deliberately did not out of respect for her healing, Kauffman said.

She also referenced a state law that allows a legitimate defense in sex crimes involving underage victims if a defendant believed the victim was older than 16, the age of consent. While that law does not apply to cases where a victim is 13 years old or younger  as in Mondays hearing  Kauffman said that doesnt entirely preclude bringing that defense up as an argument. Her client told the person conducting his psychosexual evaluation he thought the girl had been at least 16 at the time.

Kauffman said another exchange during a brief court recess, where she told Lowney How about victims as temptresses, what do you think about that? was meant as her expressing surprise that the judge had used the term and was allowing such a discussion to take place.

The teenagers mother, who was seated behind them, took umbrage with the comment, and Kauffman apologized to her, saying she was just making a little slam. Kauffman said she wasnt able to finish, but would have done so by saying it was a little slam against Deschamps, not the prosecutor or the girl.

***

Peter Lacny, president of the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, said sometimes that duty of loyalty to defend a client can lead to members of the public questioning things defense attorneys say or do.

But he said views often change if a person is being charged and prosecuted for alleged criminal conduct.

Were the only person generally standing with the client, with the prosecution and the police generally against them, said Lacny, of the Missoula firm Datsopoulos, MacDonald and Lind. Our job is to mitigate and defend them.

***

Shantelle Gaynor, department manager for the Missoula City-County Relationship Violence Services, said comments like Kauffmans about a victims actions, dress or appearance can have a chilling effect on victims' willingness to report sexual violence.

The No. 1 factor in a victims recovery is if they were believed and how they were supported in the process, she said. By looking to the actions of the victim, you dont create innocence for the perpetrator.

To put it more plainly, she said, when a drunk driver hits another vehicle, we dont ask why the victim bought a red car to begin with.

The potential for considering a victims behavior as part of reducing a perpetrators responsibility is a microcosm that pushes against broader cultural questions, about sex and rape, Gaynor said.

As a society and a culture, when there is a rape, we would like the person to go to jail. When there is consensual sex, we want people to enjoy their experience. When we conflate sex and rape, were contributing to the gray area that lets perpetrators get away with what they do, she said.

***

In the days since the initial news story came out, Kauffman said she has received threats, including death threats, from around the country, some of which she played for the Missoulian.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself, one voicemail said.

I hope that you get whats coming to you, said another.

You are a horrible human being  theres a special place in hell for people like you, went a third.

That was my life yesterday and the day before, Kauffman said Thursday, saying the backlash has made her afraid. In 20 years (as a defense attorney) Ive never dealt with this level of hostility and anger.

Deschamps said the threats Kauffman has been receiving since the hearing were unacceptable.

Shes doing her job. She doesnt deserve this, he said. We should be able to, without fear of retribution, be able to have freewheeling discussion in sentencing hearings.

Since seeing the initial story of Kauffmans comments in court generate controversy, Deschamps said he reviewed a Montana Supreme Court decision in a case involving statements in a 2013 rape sentencing made by former District Court Judge G. Todd Baugh in Yellowstone County. The high court censured Baugh over the handling of the case and suspended him for a month.

The comments that landed Baugh in hot water were significantly different than Deschamps statements in Mondays court hearing. In 2013, Baugh sentenced a teacher who was convicted of raping one of his students to a sentence that had all but a month suspended, saying as part of his rationale for the sentence that the 14-year-old girl in the case had been older than her chronological age and had likely been in as much control of the situation as the defendant.

Days later, Baugh apologized for the comments, saying they were stupid and wrong.
Members of The International Molinological Society at Charlecote Mill last week.

A LARGE contingent of millers and mill enthusiasts have visited Charlecote Mill as the campaign to save it steps up.

The International Molinological Society (TIMS) were told during their visit last week about the proposal to open the Upper Avon, between Stratford and Warwick, to boats.

But a predicted rise in the water level if that goes ahead could force the Grade II*-Listed mill out of operation after 250 years.

Karl Grevatt, the current miller at Charlecote, said: "They were upset to hear that the mill is under threat at the moment and we're keen to show their support.

"Individuals thought that Charlecote Mill was 'A Mill with the right kind of dust' (Rotterdam), 'A Mill as it should be' (USA).

"I had some encouraging comments such as 'wonderful to see everything at work' (Sussex UK), 'keep up the traditional milling profession' (Netherlands) and 'really nice working mill' (Germany)."

The proposal is being promoted by the Avon Navigation Trust and currently has the back of Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council.

But there is also strong opposition from the National Trust, which owns Charlecote Park, and scepticism from Warwick Castle.

Mr Grevatt met with Cllr Peter Richards, Stratford District Council's portfolio holder for infrastructure last week.

Full story is in the current edition of the Herald, download a copy HERE
Lucy Ellinson, Emmanuella Cole and Nigel Barrett in Kingdom Come

It seems fitting that on the day the founder of the RSC and great innovator Sir Peter Hall exits our world pursued by love and homage, a challenging and brave piece of theatre opens at The Other Place.

Kingdom Come is part of the ongoing Making Mischief festival and is a devised work, meaning that it has been conceived by directors Gemma Brockis and Wendy Hubbard and also largely created in the rehearsal room with the six (brilliant) actors and the rest of the creative team.

The play starts in 1640, the dawn of the Civil War. On the streets there is unrest, mobs roam hungry and frustrated, Parliament is rebellious, the chaos of impending war breaks down social order But never mind all that, we the audience join the action inside an opulent theatre  a dazzling crushed gold backdrop and velvet drape-clad proscenium stage, with suitably regal classical brass tunes parping out (designer Charlotte Espiner and composer/sound designer Melanie Wilson are on their game throughout the production).

We are at a courtly masque, the view from our comfy seats is rather jolly: as the performers present a tableaux of amusing characters ( Scottish man smoking a pipe et al) Madeleine Worrall as the narrator provides a seductive and wry commentary  it is funny and surreal.

But there is a switch. Proceedings turn disconcerting when a metallic masque-wearing King Charles I, flanked by two courtiers, assumes centre stage and does an agonisingly slow walk towards us as surtitles flash down on the floor charting the onset and progress of the war in illuminated letters. It is menacing, harrowing, shocking, brilliant.

In 1642 the Puritans closed the theatres, and so, true to life, in the second part of the play we are shunted out of our seats and comfort zones as we are herded into a scene dock area out of normal view. At the end of the long room is scaffolding where the king awaits beheading by a beefy executioner. Theres a mood of puzzlement and fright as we await the protracted execution. Lucy Ellinson (oh those gloriously big expressive eyes) rants; while a lithe Solomon Israel wearing a Medusa-like headdress messes with the crowd, teasing and poking.

Nigel Barrett as the fated king fusses overlong with his clothes and the position of his head on the block so much so that you find yourself willing axe dude to get on with chopping his head off. And then it hits you: weare the baying mob, the scared and bloodthirsty citizens of mid-17th century Britain.

Or are we? As Kingdom Come moves into the final third part, and we shuffle back into our seats in a now derelict, graffiti-scrawled theatre, clarity does not seem high on the companys agenda. A drunk couple bitch about Cromwell; a theatre company act out snatches from Twelfth Night, seemingly despairing of the dramas ability to speak to the times; an actor gets beaten up by the Puritans. One of the most affecting scenes comes as a soldier (Barrett) recounts the terrible slaughter and inhumanity he has witnessed (the bashing out of brains, and slaughtered naked bodies) as he cleans his sword and breaks down.

The play culminates in a series of vignettes where the actors pose as if captured in a painting by an old Dutch master; rich half light conjures the majesty of a maid at the washtub, louche diners at a meal and Cavaliers laughing over a drink.

The scenes look and sound great, and you can feel the profundity, but cant quite seem to grasp its inner meaning. Like the rest of Kingdom Come it rests in a no-mans land between enigmatic, perplexing and provocative The man who introduced the country to Waiting for Godot in 1955 would surely have approved.

Kingdom Come is on at The Other Place until 30th September. Book tickets at www.rsc.org.uk
An explosion took place at the Pak-Afghan border in Chaman, Balochistan, on Monday, Levies sources told source. Casualties are feared, and initial reports suggest there are some wounded in the blast, which occurred near the Friendship Gate border crossing, the sources said.

The nature of the blast is not known at this time. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack as yet. In the recent past, militants have carried out low-intensity bombings in Chaman, targeting police stations and other national installations.

Chaman is considered a sensitive town in Balochistan as it shares a border with Afghanistan's volatile Kandahar province.

Last week, Pakistani and Afghan officials had, in a meeting in Kabul, agreed to formulate an action plan seeking to improve security along the Pak-Afghan border through enhanced cooperation. However, a day after the meeting, at least six Frontier Constabulary (FC) personnel and a child were injured in two consecutive explosions at the Pak-Afghan border at Torkham.

The same day, a United States (US) drone strike killed three suspected militants in Kurram Agency near the shared border with Afghanistan.

Pakistan and Afghanistan have shared a tense relationship as of late, with both sides accusing each other of housing terrorists.

The latest violence at the Pak-Afghan border comes after the US announced a new Afghanistan and South Asia policy, taking a harder line on Pakistan as it urged Islamabad to take stronger action against 'safe havens' in the country.

Pakistan has denied allowing terrorists to use its soil against any other country. Chief of Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on Defence Day said that Pakistan is ready to help the US and Nato for peace in Afghanistan, but Pakistans security concerns must also be addressed.

This is a developing story
A seven-page ransom note from the cyber terrorists who threatened Flathead County school districts over the last several days gave clues to the attackers and their motive when it was made public Monday evening.

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry posted the ransom note on Facebook (with some information redacted) along with a written statement, to alleviate concerns about students and teachers physical safety.

We have made the unusual decision to release the ransom demand letter, Curry wrote. We feel this is important to allow our community to understand that the threats were not real, and were simply a tactic used by the cyber extortionists to facilitate their demand for money.

Public and private schools around Flathead County, as well as Flathead Valley Community College, which have been closed since Thursday, will reopen Tuesday as planned, Curry said in a telephone interview Monday evening.

"There is no physical threat to kids," he stressed.

The hacker group, calling itself TheDarkOverlord Solutions, asked for a ransom of digital currency in exchange for not releasing personal information they have about students, teachers and school administrators.

The sheriff's office said that the group had hacked the Columbia Falls school district network, gaining access to student and staff names and contact information. Besides contacting school administrators, the group also used that information to contact a random small group of parents to make disturbing, graphic, personalized threats," the sheriff's office said.

In the ransom note, the group described its mission as a "business proposition" adding that unless its demands were satisfied "we will wreak havoc upon your district and your personal lives."

In April, a group with the same name released what it said were a number of new episodes, scheduled for June, of the hit Netflix series "Orange is the New Black, and threatened to release titles from other series unless "modest" ransoms were paid, according to the Associated Press. Twitter suspended the group's account, according to Variety.

The note posted Monday on the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Facebook page was sent to members of the Columbia Falls school district, Curry said, by the overseas group that is the subject of several investigations around the country.

We have also discovered that they have frequently failed to live up to their promises to not release the stolen data in the past, even when their ransom demands have been met, Curry wrote. We fully understand the concern and fear that has resulted from this cyber-attack, and want the community to know that all the valley law enforcement agency heads feel there is no threat to the physical safety of our children.

In addition to schools being closed for three days, all extracurricular activities were canceled through the weekend and into Monday. Not only were home athletic events canceled, but teams from the Flathead did not travel to any away games. More than 15,000 students were affected.

Informational meetings for parents were scheduled around the county Monday and there will be a law enforcement presence at area schools "until we are able to apprehend the suspect or further discredit the threat," Curry said.

"It's really very unfortunate that somebody anywhere in the world can cause this much fear in a community," Curry said Monday evening. "Unfortunately, it may be the future of law enforcement. ... More and more, I fear this is the wave of the future."

The full ransom letter is attached to the online version of this story.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.
A statewide sales tax has been anathema to generations of Montanans, but times change and its time to talk again about that long-taboo tax.

Montanas present revenue shortfall necessitates both short-term and long-term solutions. State revenue hasnt kept up with the cost of maintaining existing public services for the past couple of years. The bigger challenge appears to be that the revenue gap is projected to grow next year and in future years.

The state of Montana relies heavily on personal income taxes and to a lesser extent on corporate income taxes. Income tax revenue is increasing at a low rate while natural resource revenue (oil, gas, coal) has dropped with the global price of oil and decline in worldwide demand for coal.

As of Jan. 1, 45 states were collecting statewide sales tax, according to a report from the Tax Foundation, an independent policy research organization in Washington, D.C. All of Montanas neighbor states collect statewide general sales tax and all allow local governments to collect a general sales tax. According to the Tax Foundation, these are the statewide sales taxes and the maximum local sales tax allowed by:

Wyoming: 4 percent statewide, 2 percent local.

South Dakota, 4.5 percent statewide, 4.5 percent local.

North Dakota 5 percent, 3.5 percent.

Idaho, 6 percent statewide, 3 percent local.

Montanas neighbors rank among the lower-rate states nationwide. The states with the highest statewide general sales tax are California at 7.25 percent, and Mississippi, Tennessee and Rhode Island all at 7 percent.

Montana is one of five states with no general sales tax, along with Alaska, Delaware, New Hampshire and Oregon.

While many Montanans are pleased and proud to pay no sales tax, there are drawbacks. Our state tax system is less diverse and more easily unbalanced by fluctuations in natural resource and income tax collections. As Montanas outdoor economy has grown, that growth isnt reflected substantially in state (or local tax) revenues. Montana has millions of out-of-state visitors every year who spend lots of money on dining and shopping, but dont pay tax on most of their purchases (gasoline, lodging and rental cars are the exceptions).

On average, states generate more than one-third of their revenues from personal income taxes and another one-third from general sales taxes, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The remaining revenues are split between excise taxes (on gasoline, cigarettes and alcohol); corporate income and franchise taxes; and taxes on business licenses, utilities, insurance premiums, severance, property and several other sources.

A state sales tax should be tailored to exempt essentials, such as groceries and health care items. Most states exempt unprepared food. Some exempt clothing. Some states hold sales-tax holidays, such as a weekend for back-to-school shopping.

Over the years, Montana has seen proposals to enact a sales tax that would offset property taxes. But the reform needed now must increase revenues overall.

The states revenue crunch has developed recently. Local governments have been struggling for many years because state law limits their tax options. They depend heavily on property assessments. A statewide general sales tax could be written to allow local government to add a limited tax on the same items.

Montana voters last rejected a sales tax in June 1993 by a margin of 3-1. A lot has changed in the past 24 years. Montana has more people, workers and visitors. Our population is aging faster than most states, increasing demand for health care and home care subsidized by the state. Montana is at full employment with more people earning paychecks. Paying for high-quality education is more important than ever for technical, professional and trade jobs.

We dont expect that a statewide sales tax will be enacted this year, but lets get a public discussion started now.
Ambalame Pina View(s):

Ambalame Pina-Pina

Walankadak Gena-Gena

Eka bidapu Gona-Gona

Ekata mata Hina-Hina

I was reminded of this favourite childrens rhyme when listening to Kussi Amma Seras diatribe on the foibles of Sri Lankan politicians. Eya ekak kiyanawa. Anith dawase anith ekkena return ekay denewa, she said one day, looking up from the Lankadipa newspaper while reading a story about a ruling party politician attacking an opposition politician and the return response from the aggrieved party.

Meka hari kolamak, apey ratey. Apey manthrila hariyata wedak karanne-nathuwai, hemadama trouble, she said spicing up her criticism with a few English words she had learnt from her 18-year-old son who had visited her, from their village, last month.

That parliamentarians do nothing other than fight, argue and return home without any productive work in the legislature, has been a perennial problem. Over the years, there have been a mix of good MPs and bad MPs and while together the mix should at least bring out some (not all) positive results in terms of productive work done, over the past two years however it has been constant opposition and return ekak culture that has emanated through the walls of this august assembly (though whether the Sri Lankan Parliament deserves this revered description is now a question). The same applies to all local bodies and local politicians.

Even if the government wants to do something, there is some opposition. On the other hand, if there was opposition support, government backbenchers would greet such response with a tinge of suspicion and a why are they supporting this and is there a motive, an agenda behind-kind of feeling.

Time is running out for the rulers. Already the two governing parties are halfway through their parliamentary term and period of rule. Not much has been done other than one; freedom to citizens, in every, real sense of the word.

The rest of the time has been wasted in shuffling positions or threatened Cabinet reshuffles, giving little time to incumbent ministers and officials to get down to real work. This also reminds me of the culture of the diplomatic service pertaining to the usual 3-year term of a diplomat: The first year is spent settling down in a foreign country, bringing the family across and learning the culture and making friends, etc while the second year is spent on doing some real work and diplomacy. The final year is getting ready to work out the next assignment. In our book, this is called a settling-in-period, real work and readying to go.

The culture of governance in Sri Lanka is almost similar in a 5-year parliamentary term. It takes two years to settle in, appoint cronies, reshuffle people and play political games with the opposition; midway for about a year, some real work is done though today midway in the term of the government of cohabitation, real work has become a challenge with distractions (Treasury Bond Commission, for example) taking away the peoples attention to work or making sure their political representatives work. In the final years of Government (in this case August 2018 to August 2020) it is mostly likely to be a case of preparing to win the next election with handouts and electioneering at the cost of the taxpayer.

So the governments mid-way term (2017/2018) should ideally see some real work being done. However, the settling-in period is taking longer than expected with the ruling parties unable to come together on many issues, and the agreement between the two ruling parties in danger of being thrown out of the window in December. Corruption is also at play and playing into the hands of the opposition.

Consider todays progress in terms of the economy, business and investment. Economic growth is seen to be better in 2017 against 2015/16, however, challenged by natural disasters that have wreaked havoc not only on homes, communities and businesses but also on finances for which billions of rupees were compelled to be set aside for relief and welfare work.

Foreign investment is slowly picking up with a silver lining in terms of the stock market which has seen a favourable rise in the inflow of foreign funds. New tax laws give the impression that the people would have to pay more taxes though mandarins at the Treasury (under the guidance of Ministers Mangala Samaraweera and Eran Wickramaratne) insist its based on an individuals income and ability to pay. By the way, how should such an assessment be made? Cost of living plus a percentage set aside as savings divided by income or is it just living costs divided by income? Savings today are only possible if people do two jobs instead of one, given todays burden on the household budget.

Moving onto the wheels of the government, there is a need to re-engineer the public sector. Efficiency of the public service is a core problem of the governing parties: The public service has been slow and not working at the pace of the government . It took more than 18 months for the Treasury to settle in due to conflicts between a team of advisors appointed by the then minister in charge and long-standing Treasury officials. Budgets went haywire, court rulings blocked the implementation of revenue measures which didnt follow procedure and some officials took early retirement without the routine extension period.

Now the settling-in period appears to be in full swing at the Treasury with the entry of two new ministers and all eyes are on the November budget (and not infighting at the Treasury) and what it holds for business and the people.

In our book, the real challenge is not the economy, not taxes, not corruption. It is an effective and empowered public service that wont be swayed or distracted by politicians or changing colours. A new set of rules through a Public Service Charter approved by Parliament is necessary to ensure public servants discharge their duties without fear or favour to benefit the people, not politicians. The old rules dont fit in with todays needs and challenges. For example, last weeks column referred to the rules pertaining to the maintenance of files in a government department and how these rules were blatantly violated.

While policies are subject to change as political colours do, the public official is duty-bound to implement these policies but within laid out parameters which would ensure Constitutional protection for refusing an order if deemed illegal, corrupt or smacks of political favouritism.

A classic run-around is seen at Dehiwela, where residents complaining of illegal constructions are pushed from pillar to post in their complaints and given the usual merry-go- round in the complaints mechanism.

As Kussi Amma Sera says, Apey manthrila honda weda- palak koranna puluwan-nam, kochhera hond-da ratata. Ethakota apey Grama Sevaka mahaththaya-lath hariyata wedakorie.

Loosely translated, what she means is that if MPs do their job then from village officials to the top of the bureaucracy, the systems will run efficiency. One of the best things that could happen from the Government (apart from the freedom doctrine) is to create this Public Service Charter. Economic growth, an educated workforce, the rule of law and less corruption will then all fall into place. Parliament would then cease to be an Ambalama with the peoples representatives hard at work instead of hardly at work.
Backlash from moves to purchase private power plants View(s):

Moves are underway to purchase three private-owned power plants without following proper tender procedure under the cover of a possible power shortage caused by the recent drought, Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) trade unions alleged.

The cost to the CEB of generating power through its own plants and private plants rose to Rs. 25 billion last year.

The CEB has been directed to purchase the 100 Megawatt Ace thermal power in Embilipitiya, 20 Megawatt Agrico power and 50 Megawatt Asia power plants as an emergency measure, a leader of CEB joint trade union alliance divulged.

The board has already purchased 60MW Barge Mounted Power Plant owned by Colombo Power Pvt Ltd which has a power purchase agreement since 2000.

Energy experts, raising questions on this deal, ask why the CEB spent a massive sum of Rs. 838 million to buy this outdated, 15-year old power plant in 2015 despite the assurance given by two Japanese investor companies Mitsui Engineering & Shipping Co. Ltd. (MES) and Kawasho Corporation that it will be handed over to the government in 2020.

The CEB purchases power from private thermal plants annually to meet the increasing demand of electricity. These purchases are being made without providing a proper mechanism and procedure, they alleged.

CEB purchases power from Asia Power at a unit cost of Rs. 27 rupees, ACE Kalanitissa at Rs. 22, ACE Embilipitiya at Rs. 21 and West Coast Rs. 26.

CEB had purchased 2173 Gegawatts of power at a cost of Rs. 61.37 billion in 2016 from private power plants, Finance Ministry data showed.

The power generation cost for 2017 is Rs.187 billion which include the cost of hydro and thermal plants of the CEB, private thermal plants and renewable energy sources.

Four PPPs Asia Power (Pvt) Ltd, Sojitz Kelanitissa (Pvt) Ltd, West Coast (Pvt) Ltd and Northern Power are currently generating power to the CEBs national grid.

The agreements between CEB and Lakdhanavi (Pvt) Ltd, ACE Power Generation Matara (Pvt) Ltd, ACE Power Generation Anuradhapura (Pvt) Ltd, Heladhanavi (Pvt) Ltd, and ACE Power Generation Embilipitiya (Pvt) Ltd have been concluded following the expiry of their periods.

According to the Sri Lanka Electricity Act competitive bidding process should be followed in purchasing power from the private sector, Secretary to the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy Dr. Suren Batagoda said adding that the least cost option should be considered when purchasing power, for the benefit of the people.

The ministry will introduce electricity pricing mechanisms such as cost reflective electricity tariff formula supported by IMF, he disclosed.

Measures will be taken to reduce the possibility of future financial losses by the CEB and avoid large ad hoc adjustments in electricity tariff while allowing time for public consultation and obtain cabinet approval of the automatic pricing mechanism for electricity by September 2018.

(Bandula)
Tea smallholders given grants View(s):

The government has provided financial assistance to tea smallholders affected by the adverse weather conditions during May this year.

In this regard, Rs.250,000 has been given as a grant to the tea smallholders for loss of crop and a further Rs.250,000 for replanting, Federation of Tea Smallholders President Neville Ratnayaka told the Business Times.

These monies had been issued to smallholders impacted by the floods in May this year in the Galle and Kalutara districts, he said.

Six districts namely Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Hambantota, Gampaha and Ratnapura were affected by the floods this year as a result of which the crops of the smallholders were adversely affected. Mr. Ratnayaka pointed out that while the tea market is currently performing in a stable position the climatic changes were creating problems. Tea smallholders comprise about 70 per cent of the tea exports of Sri Lanka.

(SD)
For the first time, 3-pronged election battle for PCs and local councils View(s):

SC determination on 20A to be announced by Speaker on Tuesday; if Referendum isrequired, 3 PC polls will be held first

UNP on a good wicket despite SLMC plans, but Sirisenas UPFA in tricky position against Rajapaksas JO

Arundika joins Rajapaksa, but 9 other SLFP MPs backtrackon plans to cross over

By Our Political Editor

Plans are on the drawing board for the two coalition partners  the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and the United National Party (UNP)  to contest each other at an upcoming Provincial Council or Local Government election. It is most likely the PC polls will come first followed by elections to local government institutions.

Such a poll will also break with the tradition of two major political parties vying with each other during past elections. Entering the fray will be a third formidable group, the result of changes in the political landscape after the presidential and parliamentary elections in 2015. This is the first time in two and half year that the SLFP and the UNP are parting ways for a poll which is significant. It will also be the first time that the coalition partners are seeking public approval for their two and half year Yahapalanaya or good governance rule.

The SLFP will field candidates under the umbrella of the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA). The UNP has revived its grouping under the United National Front (UNF). Emerging as the third force is the group led by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Though he is the de-facto head of the Sri Lanka Peoples Party (SLPP), talks are under way to form an alliance under a new name. Also in the fray is the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). Though it does not have a reach countrywide, it has its voter base in many districts. The North is a different political scene with the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) dominating the area even though Provincial Council elections are not due there just yet. The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) has a foothold in the East, where PC elections are due.

For all these parties and even the Elections Commission, the focus this week has remained the Supreme Court determination on the proposed 20th Amendment to the Constitution. A three judge bench  Chief Justice Priyasath Dep, Justice Anil Gooneratne and Justice Vijith Malalgoda  which examined the draft amendments has already delivered its determination under sealed cover to the Speaker with a copy to the President. The SC heard some 23 petitions from political parties, civil society organisations and NGOs challenging the 20A. The Courts determination  believed to be by majority 2-1 vote  was dispatched to the Speaker and the President on Thursday hours before Chief Justice Dep left for South Korea and then Japan to participate in the Chief Justices conference.

20As implications

In essence, the 20A seeks to hold elections for all PCs on the same date. A transitional provision empowers Parliament to dissolve all PCs on the specified date. Such a date is not to be later than the expiration of the term of last constituted PC. This is if the term of the PC concludes prior to the said specified date, the term of such PC to be extended beyond that date until the specified date. In the event of any Provincial Council being dissolved, the powers of such Council are to be exercised by Parliament.

The SC determination will be made known to Parliament by Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Tuesday (September 19) when he returns from an official visit to the House of Commons in Britain earlier this week and attending commemoration events connected with the 153rd birth anniversary of Anagarika Dharmapala in Buddha Gaya today. In this backdrop, political parties have been discussing possible scenarios based on what the SC may rule. One such possibility being discussed is a scenario where if the Court has declared that besides a two thirds vote to pass 20A, a referendum of the people is also required to extend the term of the PCs.

Petitioners have argued before the SC that an amendment to Article 154 E of the Constitution, the five-year term of the PC which expires prior to the specified date being extended, would be without a mandate of the people in a province. They argued that the mandate given by the electors was for a term of five years for a PC and Parliament being allowed to extend its term of office was against such a mandate. They also pointed out that the Constitution at present has no provision for the extension of a term of a PC and only the Governor had the power to dissolve it prior to the expiration of the five-year term.

Some petitioners alleged that the 20A is purposely coupled with political necessities, and is designed to safeguard the interests of the Government and repugnant to constitutional principles. They sought an SC directive that 20A does not become law unless passed by a two thirds majority and approved by the people at a referendum. Another scenario that is being looked at is the possibility of the SC determining that only a two thirds vote is necessary, and not a referendum. However, the President is now aware of the determination and would have passed the information to his Government partners before he emplanes for New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly sessions (UNGA).

Why is the SC determination so important? It is on that ruling, that the Election Commission will discern which election would be held first, the three pending Provincial Councils  Sabaragamuwa, North Central and East or the Local Government polls. Should there be the necessity for a referendum, a Government source opined that they were likely to drop the idea of moving forward with a 20A. This is because the Government would then become helpless when it comes to end of terms and pending polls to the three PCs  Sabaragamuwa (September 26), Eastern (September 30) and North Central (October 1). The conduct of a referendum, a time consuming process, will not help put off these polls since a law to do so would not be in place. Thus, it would be impossible to apply the 20A to these PCs even if such an amendment is adopted.In such an event, the PC polls are most likely to come first. Elections Commission Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya has already made clear that he would await a communication from Parliament only till October 2. If there was no such intimation, he would issue a Gazette notification calling for nomination for elections to the three PCs. An official source said elections could be planned for December 9. Earlier, plans have been afoot to hold nominations for local bodies from around November 7 to 14 and conduct an election around January 8 next year. However, the situation may change in the light of the new developments.

Sirisenas tough stand

Ahead of the polls, the leader of the SLFPs Central Committee has endorsed President Maithripala Sirisenas move to field candidates on the UPFA ticket. The bulath kole (Betel leaf) is their symbol. Sirisena has chosen to take a tough line against party parliamentarians whom he believes are trying to destabilise the SLFP by consorting with the rival faction. In a move that gave a strong signal to others, he sacked Deputy Minister Arundika Fernando from his post as Deputy Minister of Tourism and Christian Affairs. Fernando visited Sirisena at his Paget Road residence to offer an explanation. While he was there, the President asked Fernando to accompany him to an event in Orugodawatte, fuelling speculation that he had relented and apologised. A minister, Chandima Weerakkody in fact publicly stated they would see Fernando back in a separate ministry.

However, Fernando told Mahinda Rajapaksa that he had not apologised and later told a news conference he would not go back to the Government which he said was on the verge of collapse. He had earlier been questioned by the police on his meeting with a fugitive relative of Rajapaksa, former Ambassador to Russia Udayanga Weeratunga in Japan recently. The Joint Oppositions parliamentary leader Dinesh Gunawardena told a news conference on Friday that Fernando had stated that he would sit with the JO and co-operate with it to oust the UNP government. When Parliament meets next week, Fernando will ask the Speaker to give him a different seat, Gunawardena said.

Some nine SLFP parliamentarians who were planning to sit as independent MPs in the Opposition bench have abandoned the move, at least temporarily. Among them is a vociferous minister with strong links to the Rajapaksa faction of the SLFP. Though he conveyed his decision to leave to Sirisena, the minister in question has had second thoughts. His colleagues say it is related to an investigation by the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) into an allegedly fraudulent deal. Informal moves by a group of SLFPers supporting Rajapaksa to forge an understanding with the Sirisena faction to field common UPFA candidates have also come a cropper.

Sirisena was not in favour of their suggestion to form a broad alliance under a different name and have a separate symbol. He has insisted that they were welcome to contest under the UPFA, much the same way they did during elections in the past. Now, Sirisena has asked the party leaders not to give nominations to any Rajapaksa faction members who have attempted to undermine the SLFP that he leads. Some such supporters in PCs are now being removed from posts of ministers whilst changes are also being made among electoral organisers. Whether this would consolidate Sirisenas position or weaken both him and the SLFP remains a question.

UNP has problems too

The UNP, which is reviving the United National Front (UNF), is not without its own problems. The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), a constituent partner, wants to contest some local councils under its name and its symbol, the tree. The SLMC has been riven by many a crisis. Its leader Rauff Hakeem was not available for comment and calls to him went unanswered. However, General Secretary Nizam Kariapper told the Sunday Times, The SLMC is considering options to face the upcoming local government polls separately in Northern and Eastern areas while looking at the possibilities of contesting with coalition partners in the rest of the country. There is still no final decision taken on this matter as elections are yet to be declared. Once it is done, our party high command will decide. An influential section in the UNP is not in favour of the SLMC move. One of them said, They are trying to get the best of both worlds, typically.

On the other hand, the SLMC wants to ensure its identity is not diluted in its strong bases particularly at a time when in-fighting in the party has been high. A one-time senior member Basheer Segu Dawood who claims he represents the pure SLMC declared that a formidable faction was now in talks with other Muslim groups to form a joint alliance. We strongly believe this would be advantageous for all Muslim parties in the east but an alliance with national parties will be entered into thereafter to contest in other parts of the country, he told the Sunday Times. He said former SLMC General Secretary Hassan Ali was also a key player in the new effort. Former Minister and Ambassador to Singapore. Ferial Ashraff, the widow of SLMCs founding leader, A.H.M. Ashraff was photographed this week with Azad Sally, one-time deputy mayor of Colombo and bitter critic of the UNP. The caption to the photograph released to the newspapers by Sally said that Mrs. Ashraff pledged her support, and that of her son to Sallys National Unity Alliance (NUA). Yet, the SLMC still retains a substantial voter base particularly in the East.

Entering the fray for the first time will be the group led by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, now MP for the Kurunegala District. He told the Sunday Times; We will contest both the PC and the local government polls. Elaborating on his remarks was his brother and former Minister, Basil Rajapaksa, one-time chief organiser of the SLFP. He said discussions had reached the final stage for the formation of an alliance of all parties opposed to the Government. He said though the Sri Lanka Peoples Party (SLPP) wished that the proposed alliance would use their SLPP symbol  a flower bud (or pohottuwa)  a final decision was yet to be made. Asked about the chances of victory for the proposed alliance, Rajapaksa said, We are confident we will win two out of three provincial councils for which polls are due. We will also win a formidable number of local bodies. He said during their campaign we will educate the people on how moves have been made to put off elections for fear of losing. Otherwise why keep putting them off?

Dinesh Gunawardena, Leader of the JO in Parliament, said that most candidates from the new alliance could include members who had been elected and served in local bodies until their terms ended. More than eight parties will be in the new alliance. We will also have to make way for younger candidates and women as stipulated in the new law. He said they hoped to finalise matters by next month.

Why 20A?

The JVP will also field candidates for all three PC elections and the local government polls. Like the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the JVP also extended its support to the Government to ensure 20A is adopted by contributing to a two thirds vote. However, the TNA did so only after an assurance from the UNP leadership that the Northern Provincial Council will be allowed to run its full term next year. Earlier, they declared that they would strongly oppose the 20A.

The recent delays over the Election Commission holding local counil or PC elections were the result of the Governments move to introduce the 20A. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, backed by President Sirisena, recommended that this constitutional amendment be carried out. As revealed earlier, Premier Wickremesinghe gave four reasons why it is more logical, reasonable and appropriate to hold elections to all PCs on the same day, a day as decided by Parliament, between the Presidential and Parliamentary Elections, most probably an accepted procedure similar to mid-term elections in the United States (second year of each Presidential Term). The four reasons given by him were (a) Efficient utilisation of State Resources on Elections, (b) Elimination of undue disruptions to day-to-day life of the General Public and State Service Deliveries, (c) Dissipation of energies and resources of political parties throughout the country, minimising election related violence and state resources utilisation by some candidates, and (d) Accurate using of public perception as a barometer to evaluate the conduct of the incumbent Government, enabling it to take corrective measures, if needed. However, there was also a slip when he said that there would be a distortion of public perception in the country regarding the popularity/unpopularity of a political party based on the outcome of the election held in a particular province that can be a deciding factor for the subsequent elections, having a chain-effect.

At present, the term of a Provincial Council is five years and it cannot be dissolved prior to expiration of its term unless the Board of Ministers concurs to do so. It is mandatory for the Commissioner of Elections to call for nominations within one week from the date of such dissolution. In the event of the SC ruling that a referendum cum two thirds vote is required for 20A, it would be inevitable for the Elections Commission to conduct polls on staggered basis since current terms of PC would end on varying dates from September 2017 to October 2019.

Notwithstanding logical arguments on why PC polls should all be held in a day, there are also other contributory factors which have necessitated the passage of 20A. It is no secret the Government has been fighting shy of polls. In the case of local government elections, one is a likely scenario where the UNP would secure control of more bodies than the SLFP. Such an eventuality could be worse for President Sirisena, the leader of the SLFP. The resultant embarrassment could be made worse if his own party, now facing internecine issues, falls behind the proposed new Opposition alliance. It could be the same fate in the PC elections too.

On the other hand, for the UNP which is also facing accusations increasingly of bribery and corruption within its own ranks, the uphill task of winning the three PC polls as well as many local bodies, though challenging, would place it in an unenviable position, vis-a-vis its partner the SLFP.

Thus, the question is not one of whether the SLFP or the UNP that would be ahead. Even more importantly, the polls campaign is likely to bring in an unwelcome divide between the coalition partners in Government. Each side is bound to put the blame on the other for its inability to fulfil promises made during the 2015 presidential and parliamentary elections exacerbating the existing tensions. This is in the backdrop of the MoU between the two sides lapsing last month, not being extended and both wanting to go their own way. Sirisena has already declared a decision would come in December this year. The UNP has set in motion its own plans.

One of the knots that will keep the two sides together will be the November 9 budget to be presented by Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera. In the coming week, he will table the Appropriation Bill for 2018. Highlights of allocations in this Bill appear in a box story. Samaraweeras designer budget will no doubt be tailored to appease the public ahead of a poll.

Mahinda Rajapaksa, now the de facto leader of the Opposition says he is confident the new alliance will make new strides at the upcoming polls. Who will become the casualty and how the political groups will re-align themselves remains a critical factor.

Defence budget tops the list

Despite the end of the separatist war, defence expenditure continues to draw the highest allocation of funds in successive budgets. The Appropriation Bill, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers and due to be presented in Parliament next week by Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera, records a commitment of Rs 260,711,375,000 as recurrent expenditure for the Ministry of Defence. The capital expenditure, however, is at Rs 30 billion. The higher commitments are the result of Sri Lankas security apparatus expanding with the addition of new institutions over the years and the resultant updating of equipment. Yet, the sum is lower than the Rs 284 billion allocated in the previous years. In the Appropriation Bill for 2017 presented by then Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, an allocation of Rs 1,819 billion (Rs. 1.8 trillion) was the estimated expenditure requirements. Of this amount Rs 1,208 billion was the total recurrent expenditure while the total capital expenditure was Rs 610 billion. The Appropriation Bill is a piece of legislation in Parliament seeking authorisation for the Government to spend money. It sets aside money for specific spending. Of the amount allocated for the Minister of Defence (a portfolio held by the President), a sum of Rs 4,973,062,200 (Rs. 4.9 billion) as recurrent expenditure for Operational Activities and a further Rs 4,789,167,000 for Development Activities as capital expenditure. Here is a breakdown of allocations for the armed forces: Operational Activities  Sri Lanka Army  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 149,536,395,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 6,987,328,000.

Operational Activities  Sri Lanka Navy  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 50,368,948,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 7,108,621,000.

Operational Activities  Sri Lanka Air Force  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 36,512,600,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 6,687,837,000.

Operational Activities  Department of Civil Security  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 17,268,120,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 315 million.

Operational Activities  Department of Sri Lanka Coast Guard  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 38,250,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 53,200,000. The second highest allocation is to the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media. The Recurrent Expenditure is Rs 196,517,853,000 and Capital Expenditure Rs 37,054,235,000. Other higher allocations include:

The Ministry of Health,Nutrition and Indigenous Medicine  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 134,399,998,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 44 billion. The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 118,176,198,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 14,867,350,000. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 9,956,950,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 14,867,350,000.

The Ministry of Higher Education  Recurrent Expenditure Rs 32,757,000,000. Capital Expenditure Rs 150 billion.

The Appropriation Bill for the Financial Year 2018 makes provisions for expenditure estimated as Rs 1,997,264 million. It consists of Rs 1,308,939 million for recurrent expenditure and Rs 668,324 million for capital expenditure. In addition, Minister Samaraweera has said, provisions have been made under special laws to service public debt and payment of Widows and Orphan Pension etc, amounting to Rs 2,005,103 million. The provision requirement for Advance Account Activities is Rs 6,000 million. Hence, the total expenditure provision for 2018 without budget proposals to be introduced at the Second Reading of the budget is estimated at Rs 3,982,367 million. The revenue at the prevailing rate structure and foreign grants has been estimated to be around Rs 2,175,000 million. Therefore, the total borrowing requirement from both foreign and domestic sources will be Rs 1,813,367 million, Minister Samaraweera has added. Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya PC has said that the provisions of the draft Bill are not inconsistent with the Constitution. However, he has said that some clauses which he has identified as those provide for the relevant sums to be included in the respective schedules which will be incorporated at a future date, upon the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers is in compliance with the decision of the Supreme Court.
Mister Mahinda, so sorry to say, your sil slip is showing all the way View(s):

Former president exposed in TV glare beats hasty retreat to live another day

Rajapaksas sil defense: I gave order but its no wrong, its no wrong, its no wrong

Sil cloth given to promote Buddha Sasana as Article 9 of the Constitution dictates

Emerging from the gates of Welikada jail where he had gone to see firsthand the penance his permanent secretary was paying for acting on his orders, former president Mahinda Rajapaksa flared in anger when answering questions raised by the posse of journalists as to whether he held himself responsible and felt any remorse for the fate that had befallen his trusted lieutenant Lalith Weeratunga for following his illegal orders without question.

For once, Lankas top doctor of spin found to his dismay the ball did not turn to his liking on a pitch that had long gone dry. For once, the maestro of voice cuts, a propaganda device he had used splendidly to stroke his political message beyond the boundary line, found to his horror his throat suffering drought too; and incapable of delivering the biting invective against the Government, hurled repeatedly in the aftermath of his defeat, which had served so well to keep him in the public eye. For once in his life, he found the mask of charisma  carefully built, propagated, aggrandised and successfully implanted in many a Lankan mind  slip without warning when the rat pack of media men sprayed their verbal fire upon a man whom many would have readily kissed the ground he walked on just a couple of years ago.

Accosting him outside Welikada jail gates, the media pack pounced on him. First they asked him

a) Why did you give permission for this wrong doing to take place

His reply: This is no wrong doing. People are trying to portray this as a wrong doing but it is not a wrong. It was a request made by the people to me. There were ten or eight other requests. For all these eight requests, on that day itself we reserved the finances.

b)But is it against the election law that gifts cannot be distributed during an election as the Election Commission has repeatedly stressed?

His reply: No this is something we had already sent. So accordingly those officials distributed it in the provinces. We had already sent it earlier.

c) Along with your photograph and ?

His reply: No, no. That is false talk.

d)Do you take responsibility for this?

His reply: Its my order. But the judge said that I have not used force. I do not know what was meant by that but when I tell a secretary to do something it becomes an order. Not that I have to take a pole and hit the secretary and order that he must do this or that.

e) But hasnt the Election Commissioner said that such gifts could not be distributed once an election had been proclaimed?

His reply: Then you have to ask the Election Commissioner. This is not an election case.

f) Then are you saying that the fault is with the people who distributed these gifts?

His reply: No. There is no wrong in this. I told you, no, I accept that I am the one who issued the order.

g) Yes, you may not be at fault but then these gifts were distributed.

His reply: Here, you dont come to rile me. You want to make this a big media circus. Thats enough.

He then turned away getting into the car and said, I accept responsibility if its a wrong. But its no wrong.

When a man says he will accept responsibility for his acts if he had committed any wrong but then nonchalantly usurps the role of an independent judge and proceeds to pass judgment on his own conduct and declares that no wrong ever has been done by him and holds himself innocent of the charges laid at his door by his own reckoning, it is clear he has taken leave of harsh reality and that his senses have fled to the redeeming realms, to the cuckoo land of fantasy.

Its not a time for vile condemnation. Its a time to pour pounds of pity, to show compassion in the manner the Buddha has advised all to do  be it to friend or foe  for mortal men act thus out of ignorance. Its a time for understanding, a time to extend the nations heartfelt sympathies.

A time to grieve and bleed with the immense burden of remorse Mahinda Rajapaksa must feel to know in his heart of hearts that somehow, whether his actions were right or wrong, he, as the first citizen of Lanka, was the sole cause of the then first citizen of the Civil Service lying incarcerated in jail whilst he, Mahinda, has the freedom to roam the broad acres of the land and declare to the media that he only made a verbal request to Weeratunga which was obediently followed without question.

As Rajapaksa said in his voice cut media briefing outside Welikada jail after meeting Weeratunga, Not that I had to take a pole and hit the secretary and order that he must do this or that.

How true. No one could have nailed Weeratunges voluntary collusion in the sil cloth scandal to the cross of guilt better.

In the course of Mondays Welikada voice cut outburst, Mahinda Rajapaksa also said, We have a right to appeal against this verdict. There are many legal issues involved here. There are many issues which must be subjected to debate and argument. So I think we have a right to present them. 

True to his word, Rajapaksa issued a statement this Thursday on the issue. Not so much in the manner of a defence counsel arguing in the interest of his client but more so in the manner an appeal court judge, nay, the chief justice would deliver his considered judgment. After hearing his own case. And pronounces his order was legitimate.

In this statement he says, amongst others, that The verbal instructions given by me in this regard have been recorded in the form of minutes placed by Mr. Weeratunga on correspondence with officials of the Presidential Secretariat. The judgment itself states that neither Lalith Weeratunga nor Anusha Pelpita had appropriated for their personal use any of the money used to purchase sil redi. From my point of view, they only carried out legitimate instructions issued to them by the President of the country.

Does that make the presidential order legit? Perhaps the former president has missed the point completely. FIRSTLY, the question is whether he, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as president of the country, had the legal authority to verbally instruct his permanent secretary, with or without the use of a pole to bash the poor man to do his bidding, to follow an order which, Weeratunga  who had risen through the civil servants ranks and was no new born babe sipping mothers milk, not wormed and weaned  would have known had no legal basis?

SECONDLY, he states, The severe sentence imposed on Lalith Weeratunga and Anusha Pelpita is not because they enriched themselves through corrupt means. Again Rajapaksa seems to have missed the bus. The issue is not whether Weeratunga or Pelpita personally enriched themselves from the sil cloth saga. The issue is whether the then President Rajapaksa had the legal authority to issue verbally or otherwise to his secretary to transfer funds from one government entity to another without first obtaining cabinet approval and treasury sanction and following standard procedure when it came to public finance. That is the crux of the matter.

As the SUNDAY PUNCH commented last Sunday, even if one does not personally rob or enrich one self, it is still not sufficient to claim ones place in the halls of honour, if one violates the entire structure of public finance in the country. Or allows a politician to do so.

THIRDLY, the Rajapaksa De Profoundis statement claims that giving sil redi to the nations upasikavan was due to a request made by the public. Apart from the fact that many in Lanka would readily become upasikavan overnight when it comes to receiving anything free, what right does a president have to grab public money in public institutions, to dip his hands in the public till, and spend it as he pleases, as it were his own  as if he was giving instructions on the cell phone to his bank manager and requesting him to transfer Rs 600 million from his personal account to another account in another bank?

And, thereafter, attempt to justify his act by reference to some vague and unfounded request supposedly made by some sil observing public that moved his mood to do charity and amass merit at public expense? Is this the way the public money was handled by the Rajapaksa regime entrusted with its care, imposed as it were with the beholden duty to act with care as trusted guardians of the nations money, not as spendthrifts of the publics cash?

Rajapaksas defence is that its all right, no problem, whats the fuss  or as it is succinctly expressed in the vernacular avulak nahay  because it was to be reimbursed at some future date; and anyway it was all done for a good cause.

According to him  Sections 218, 115, 65, 66, 68, 93 and 94 of the Financial Regulations of the Government of Sri Lanka also authorize Chief Accounting Officers (who in the case of the Presidential Secretariat was Lalith Weeratunga) to transfer money between government agencies under his authority on the basis of reimbursement  a cheque with the date left blank.

In his own supreme court over which he was judge and jury probably that would have been the inevitable conclusion. But whether it will hold water before an impartial tribunal, bereft of his legal wisdom, is left to be seen.

FOURTHLY, he states It was stated in the judgment that the sil redi parcels contained a label which read Mahinda Rajapaksa methithuman Mahinda Chinthana prathipaththi walata anuwa yamin karana daham pandurak. (A religious offering made by Mahinda Rajapaksa in pursuance of Mahinda Chintanaya policies.) This was only a label stating the provenance of the sil redi, and in any event, is not in violation of Sections 72 and 68(1)(e) of the Presidential Elections Act No:15 of 1981, which deal with the display of printed matter during elections.

Amazing, is it not, that he had thought it fit to interpret the election laws of the land. And this in spite of denying before the media corp, four days before at the gates of the Welikada jail, that it was a total falsehood to say that his photograph had appeared on each and every sil cloth distributed to the devout. And now here in his statement he readily admits his name was plastered on the pristine cloth with the descriptive tag as being a religious gift from Mahinda Rajapaksa  mind you not from the President, but up close and personal, in pursuance of his own  chinthana philosophy. Not a word that you and I  the masses of this country  had any hand in this charity. In fact we could not even place our hands upon it and say sadhu, sadhu, let alone a mention in the label.

But as Rajapaksas statement says, This was only a label stating the provenance of the sil redi. If public money had been used to do this charity, and if the label declared its provenance, shouldnt it have been mentioned that the real origin of the gift had stemmed from the people of Lanka and not solely by Mahinda Rajapaksa?

Technically, of course, he did not transgress the fourth precept of musavadha  tell no lies. No photograph was splashed on the pristine while sil cloth in the manner teeny boppers t shirts are printed with the face of their favourite rock stars. But as he admits in his statement, every sil cloth distributed to the upasikavan in his climax to the presidential election came gift wrapped with his name. If anyone says that Mahinda Rajapaksas name in text is different from Mahinda Rajapaksas photograph and the two have no connection whatsoever, then its akin to one saying, I remember the name but, sorry, I forget the face Mr. President.

FIFTHLY  and this takes the cake  Rajapaksas statement declares that sil cloth was distributed in pursuance of the governments constitutional duty to promote and foster the Buddha Sasana in accordance with Article 9 of the Constitution.

Rajapaksas statement declares: The severe sentence imposed on Lalith Weeratunga and Anusha Pelpita is not because they enriched themselves through corrupt means but because they carried out the instructions of the head of state to distribute sil redi to temples in pursuance of the governments obligations under Article 9 of the Constitution to foster and protect Buddhism.

But does the Government, according to its constitution brief, have any such duty? The constitution is nearly forty years old now but not a single president has ever been struck that the constitution demands that clothing should be provided to assist the pilgrims progress to enlightenment.

The duties of the Buddha Sasana Ministry and thence the Government,

is basically:

To supervise and maintain the general welfare of the nations Buddhist clergy and places of worship,

to oversee Buddhist education in the country,

to promote development of temples as community centres with multiple services outside of matters spiritual, to maintain selected places of Buddhist worship, and

to assist the propagation of Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy and maintain the nature of the Buddhist state via necessary legislation.

But nowhere is it listed that one of the Governments Sasana duties is to provide for the laity to be clothed in sil uniforms. And, if need be, to rob Peter to pay Paul with the promise that Peter will be reimbursed at some future date, the date conveniently left unsaid, except for a vague reference that Lalith Weeratunga sent a note to the Chief Accountant stating that the money from the TRC should be reimbursed as soon as the allocation for 2015 is received and that at least Rs. 200 million should be paid back in the first quarter of 2015.

Was this the manner in which the then custodians of public finance, in whom the nation had reposed its trust and faith, played ducks and drakes with the peoples money?

Rajapaksa contends in his statement that, Under our constitution, the direction and control of the Government is the responsibility of the cabinet of ministers (including the President) and the public service is expected to work in good faith to achieve the policy objectives of the government. Therefore public servants who carry out lawful instructions issued to them by the President and the Cabinet should be protected if there are no serious allegations of corruption against them.

But the fact remains that he, as the then president, had no authority to issue such an order. Throughout his entire statement to convince the public that it was a legitimate order he has failed to refer to a single lawful source from which fount springs his legal authority to order the transfer of public money from one government institutions budgeted allocation to another.

His reference to the many sections in the Financial Regulations of the Government of Sri Lanka and holding that it authorises Chief Accounting Officers (who in the case of the Presidential Secretariat was Lalith Weeratunga) to transfer money between government agencies under his authority on the basis of reimbursement is nothing more than his own prejudiced interpretation of the law of the land  something perhaps he has become accustomed to after 10 years of being judge, jury, executioner and lord of all he surveyed all rolled up and bundled into one as president for life  and thus is of no legal import, of no real value, akin only to a dud coin which, under scrutiny, will soon reveal its phony face.

Finally for the icing on the Rajapaksa cake of deception contained in his last para. The crescendo to his operatic blunder.

Under our constitution, the direction and control of the government is the responsibility of the cabinet of ministers (including the President) and the public service is expected to work in good faith to achieve the policy objectives of the government. Therefore public servants who carry out lawful instructions issued to them by the President and the Cabinet should be protected if there are no serious allegations of corruption against them.

No one can disagree with that. A perfect textbook para. One to be engraved in gold and written in blood and tossed to the sky as one epitomizing the ideal relationship a civil servant should have with his political master.

Except for two words: Lawful instructions.

Lalith Weeratunga is languishing in jail today not because he stole the states finances but because he followed his political masters orders without question, ignoring the code of the civil service that one must stay faithful to the civil service creed, that one cannot serve two masters. Somewhere down the line, he chose the wrong turning, dragged perhaps, involuntarily to the vortex of political power. As Colombo High Court Judge Gihan Kulatunga observed last Thursday when passing sentence, It is clear that public servants have been prompted to carryout illegal activities under the political climate that existed at that time.

A learned judge of a competent court has thus described that transferring money from one government entity to another as illegal. The former president Rajapaksa claims his orders were legitimate but, in his ragamuffin statement, provides no credible reasons to prove its legitimacy.

In his statement he speaks of Weeratunges dealings with the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission and how Weeratunga had referred, in his communications with the TRC and with various other bodies, that he had received verbal instructions from Rajapaksa, but does not present any evidence of any constitutional or legal right that he, Rajapaksa, had to issue such an order to his secretary. The illegality stems at the source and, if not dammed at its spring, pollutes the entire stream wherever it flows.

Therein rests the crux of the matter. The issue is simply this. Forget the fact that the sil redi was distributed after the presidential elections were announced. The question that must be addressed is whether a top ranking civil servant should be granted immunity for following an order that lacks legal basis. The fact that it all happened after the election was declared only serves to aggravate the matter.

Mr. Weeratunga and his fellow partner Pelpita have now appealed against their conviction. Rajapaksa has not merely presented his version but has already delivered his final judgment to clear him of any guilt for issuing instructions to Weeratunga to plunder public coffers without legal authority merely because his political master, who himself lacks the legal authority to issue such an order, tells him to do the needful.

Soon the appeal will come to court. Till that day the truth must stay put.
Ethanol imports, liquor sales boom despite Govt.s sobriety policy View(s):

Ethanol imports for the manufacture of hard liquor doubled from 10.4 million bulk litres in 2013 to 20.4 million bulk litres in 2015 after the new Government took over, Excise Department statistics show.

The high levels were maintained in 2016 when 18.4 million bulk litres were legally imported. In the first six months of this year alone, nine million bulk litres were brought in for the liquor industry. The largest quantity to be imported in a single month during the last five yearsthat of three million bulk litreswas recorded in March 2015, just three months after the Government change.

Between 2015 and 2017, nearly 50 million bulk litres of ethanol were imported for the domestic liquor industry. By contrast, the quantity of ethanol legally imported in 2013 and 2014 was 23.9 million bulk litres. The numbers point to a significant expansion in local production.

Much of the additional ethanol seems to have gone to WM Mendis & Company Ltd, which is chaired by Arjun Aloysius, the controversial former director of Perpetual Treasuries. Industry statistics show that production by that companysoared from 2.92 million proof litres in 2014 to 8.99 million proof litres in 2015. This is a 207 percent increase.

In 2016, WM Mendis released 9.73 million proof litres, which is still an eight percent increase over the previous year. However, the Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka (DCSL), the market leader, clawed back by upping its own production. The Excise Departments 2015 performance report states that hard liquor output increased by 17.7 percent industry-wide that year when compared with 2014.

The records were obtained through an application to the Department of Excise under the Right to Information Act. They show a sharp contradiction between reality and the Governments published policy of promoting sobriety.

Retail growth in the liquor sector is largely fuelled by the brisk sale of 180ml kaley bothal or nips, as the industry calls them. The Sunday Times visited liquor outlets around Colombo and observed the smaller bottles flying off stacks of crates. Dealers said cheap prices helped promote the sale of hard liquor. Companies give generous incentives (to the owners, managers and counter boys) to plug their own brands in a drive for market dominance.

Government tax policy has also pushed growth in the hard liquor sector. In October and November 2015, duties on mild and strong beerwhich have lower alcohol contentwere raised significantly above those imposed on strong liquor. This, too, made nips more attractive to customers, dealers said. They get a higher kick for a cheaper price, explained one.

Credit ratings agency Fitch has predicted a continued rise in hard liquors share of the alcohol market this year. Taxes on a unit of pure alcohol of strong beer surpass that of hard liquor after back-to-back tax increases in 2015. This caused the revenues of DCSL to grow while the gross revenue of Lion, the largest beer maker, contracted, Fitch said.

There are eight licensed importers of ethanol for manufacturing liquor and eleven for industrial purposes. The data show that ethanol imports for industrial purposes the manufacture of soaps, perfumes and similar itemsdropped from 380,000 bulk litres in 2013; to 185,500 in 2014; and 126,800 in 2015. Last year, it was 143,300 bulk litres.

In addition to encouraging ethanol imports and growth in the hard liquor market, the Government has facilitated local ethanol production by authorising the construction of a facilitating local ethanol. The Government has also facilitated the erection of a grain-based extra neutral alcohol (ENA) distillery by WM Mendis in Kalkudah in the Batticaloa district.

Despite widespread local protest, including by local councils, construction of the Rs 4.5bn factory is proceeding. Permission was facilitated through the Ministry of Finance under Ravi Karunanayake, who recently resigned from his portfolio after it was exposed he had lived in a flat paid for by Mr Aloysius. The Excise Department was also under his purview and acted on written instructions to grant approval for the factory.

The Governments recent approach towards liquor places it at sharp odds with the World Health Organisation (WHO) policies that say price can be used to reduce underage drinking and halt progression towards drinking large volumes of alcohol and episodes of heavy drinkingrather than the other way around. Studies have repeatedly proved that consumers, including heavy drinkers and young people, are sensitive to changes in the price of drinks.

Last year, Sri Lanka even launched a National Policy on Alcohol Control despite the Ministry of Finance having introduced measures to benefit the hard liquor sector. Despite this, there is not even a social dialogue at present about rising alcoholism in the country. Nor are there structured, school-based education programmes to discourage drinking.

Price-sensitive, low-end consumers are increasingly shifting to hard liquor in smaller bottles which are now affordable and can be taken away in ones pocket, an industry source confirmed. Nips is not a social drink, he warned. We need to talk about this.
Harshas SAITM Committee proposes non-state sector medical education View(s):

Any solution proposed to resolve the current issues related to the South Asia Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM) must be in accordance with the Governments commitment to enable some level of non-state higher education, including in the medical sector, and must not be a financial burden on the state, a five member Presidential Committee said in its report.

The solution must be equitable to all stakeholders. It must be transparently implementable and monitored independently. It must be financially viable at the earliest and sustainable in the long term, it said. The report was handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena on Friday.

The Committee headed by Deputy Minister Harsha de Silva also recommended that to trigger the proposed solution and to end the boycott of medical students of state-universities, as an immediate step, the Secretary to the Ministry of Higher Education should discuss with the Attorney General to determine an appropriate legally binding mechanism. This would be to inform SAITM to suspend admission of new students until a proposed restructuring is complete, and fresh approvals are granted for the degree programme in terms of legally empowered minimum standards.

This phase is to be time bound so that any mala fide delays could be avoided and investors are able to complete the restructuring exercise. This action is expected to build confidence among all stakeholders the genuine desire of the Government to implement the proposed recommendations, which will be equitable to all, it said.

However, the Committee said this report should not have any binding impact on the students who have already passed out with MBBS degrees from SAITM. The solution for them to obtain provisional registration from SLMC is beyond the scope of this report.

The Committee also made recommendations on ownership and management of SAITM, establishing legally empowered Minimum Standards for medical education and training and a sustainable solution for accreditation and quality assurance in medical education.

Here are extracts from the report:

Matters related to ownership and management of SAITM

1. Abolish the current shareholding and management structure of SAITM; i.e., the for-profit entity owned and controlled by Dr Neville Fernando and family.

2. In its place, create a new entity that is not-for-profit with a broad-based ownership structure. The best option will be to collaborate with one or more already established educational institutions along with some amount of public participation. It may take the form of a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP). This entity should conform to the Minimum Standards (to be introduced) and other quality control measures with improved governance over a specified period of time.

Matters related to establishing legally empowered Minimum Standards for medical education and training

1. Ministry of Health to gazette Minimum Standards for medical education and training.

Such to be based on the draft submitted by SLMC upon which views of relevant stakeholders (the Ministry of Higher Education, the Ministry of Health and the UGC) have been already obtained and resubmitted to SLMC for their observations. Once such comments are obtained, finalise the draft, after further clarification by SLMC and other stakeholders if necessary and upon obtaining clearance from the Legal Draftsman and the Attorney General. The entire process must be completed by November 30, 2017, at the latest.

 Matters related to a sustainable solution for accreditation and quality assurance in medical education

1. Expedite the establishment of the proposed Independent Quality Assurance and Accreditation Authority (IQAAA). A draft IQAAA Bill is currently at an advanced stage of drafting. Unfortunately, it had not been shared with the SLMC nor with any other statutory professional body for discussion towards arriving at a strong piece of legislation with overall buy-in. The Committee directed that the draft IQAAA Bill be shared with the SLMC immediately.

2. This envisaged Authority will take over the powers currently with the UGC and the Ministry of Higher Education in the determination of quality assurance and accreditation of all degrees (state and non-state) including those that require professional recognition to practice.

3. For medical degree programmes, the SLMC will be the professional or statutory body, which will be consulted and the SLMC shall work in collaboration with IQAAA. The evaluation of medical degree programmes for accreditation will be conducted jointly by the IQAAA and the SLMC using the legally empowered Minimum Standards and in accordance with the provisions of the IQAAA Act.
Sri Lanka not likely to sign nuclear weapons ban treaty at UN By thalif deen View(s): View(s):

UNITED NATIONS  Sri Lanka, in an unprecedented move in the countrys diplomatic history, is not signing a major international treaty which it has already voted on.

Along with 121 other countries, Sri Lanka voted last July to approve a landmark UN treaty that bans the possession, development, testing, and use of nuclear weapons worldwide.

Sri Lanka was not listed among the countries scheduled to sign the treaty at a formal ceremony that is to take place at the United Nations on September 20, the day after President Maithripala Sirisena addresses the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where most world leaders are expected to participate.

As expected, none of the major nuclear powers  the US, the UK, France, Russia and China and the not-so-major nuclear powers India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea  will sign the treaty. And during negotiations they either refused to participate in the drafting of the treaty or did not vote to approve the treaty.

In a joint media statement, the delegations of the United States, Britain and France said they have not taken part in the negotiation of the treaty and do not intend to sign, ratify or ever become party to it.

The treaty  adopted by a vote of 122, including Sri Lanka in favour to one against (The Netherlands), with one abstention (Singapore)  prohibits a full range of nuclear-weapon-related activities, such as undertaking to develop, test, produce, manufacture, acquire, possess or stockpile nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices, as well as the use or threat of use of these weapons.

Dr Palitha Kohona, a former Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, told the Sunday Times a treaty on nuclear disarmament would be consistent with the long standing disarmament dream of the UN Charter.

Every little bit, even the voice of small countries, helps. But we are only too conscious of the fact that we live in a world of big brothers and smaller and weaker siblings. A nuclear weapon may be the only deterrent to prevent big brothers trampling rough shod over the others, said Dr Kohona, a former longtime Chief of the UN Treaty Section and an authority on international treaties.

Asked if, to the best of his knowledge whether Sri Lanka had voted, but not signed, an international treaty, he said: Not that I can think of.

Although the two South Asian nuclear powers, India and Pakistan will not sign the treaty, other members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) are expected to participate in the treaty signing ceremony.

Over the decades, Sri Lanka has taken a consistent stand against nuclear weapons, and strongly backed the same stand taken by the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the largest single political group at the United Nations.

According to one diplomatic source the President may have been wrongly advised. I think this is the same old keep your head below the parapet wall mentality.

The speculation at the UN is that Sri Lanka has been lobbied by one of the nuclear powers for non-action on the treaty.

The treaty, described as the first multilateral legally-binding instrument for nuclear disarmament to have been negotiated in 20 years, will enter into force 90 days after it has been ratified by at least 50 countries. It comes in the backdrop of heightened fears that a nuclear war could be imminent if North Korea were to fire its weapons it is testing in recent weeks at the US, Japan or South Korea.

The UN treaty represents an important step and contribution towards the common aspirations of a world without nuclear weapons, a spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.

President Sirisena arrives in New York today (September 17), to address the UN General Assembly on Tuesday (19), and leaves next Saturday (September 23), with dozens of bilateral meetings in between, and a visit to a Buddhist temple in the New York city borough of Queens.

At a news conference on Friday, the chief of the UN Treaty Section, Santiago Villalpando, said 38 countries are scheduled to sign several multilateral treaties, including the nuclear treaty, but he cautioned that the list gets updated every 24 hours.

As of Friday, Sri Lanka was not listed as a signatory, but that could change if the government decides to sign the treaty at the 59th minute of the eleventh hour, said an official here.

At the time of going to press, a request for clarification on Sri Lankas stand or volte-face on the issue went unanswered by the Foreign Ministry in Colombo.
A night Ill never forget For Rishi Naleendra, the kitchen has literally been the place from where his passion for cooking began. In this email interview with Lanelle Hills Perera prior to his visit to Sri Lanka, he shares some highlights of his culinary journey. View(s): View(s):

When we found out that we won a Michelin Star, it felt very surreal. At the Michelin Guide ceremony, we were very lucky to have some of our best friends receiving their first Michelin stars as well, so we started off the celebration with them, Rishi Naleendra recalls.

When we came back to the restaurant at around 10 p.m., business was still operating as usual. The moment we walked in, everyone started cheering and by 11 p.m., many of our industry friends and regular customers visited us. That night, we had over 60 people celebrating with us, and its a night well never forget.

As the name suggests, Rishi runs his Singapore restaurant Cheek by Jowl alongside his wife and General Manager, Manuela Toniolo who is involved in the day-to-day operations. (She is) more than just a restaurant manager, she is also the sommelier who curates our list of organic and biodynamic wines and recommends them to our customers. She also does the reservations, events, inquiries and assists me with organising my schedules, says Rishi of his wife who has supported his journey he says, every step of the way.

Cheek by Jowls evolving menu is a fusion of cuisines and flavours which are starkly simple in their presentation. A signature dish is Roast Pumpkin served with spiced cashew nut sauce which is turned out using Sri Lankan roasted curry powder a nostalgic touch to his Lankan roots. But it is the generosity of spirit he says, inculcated by his parents and Lankan culture that has remained with him throughout his career.

Growing up in Sri Lanka to a family of food professionals and parents who ran a demanding catering business, Rishi Naleendra has come full circle being awarded a coveted Michelin Star in the 2017 edition of the Michelin Guide in Singapore, earning him the prestigious status of being recognized as a Michelin Star Chef.

But it was not something he aspired to as a youngster. When I saw how hard my parents were working and the amount of time they were sacrificing, I was determined not to be in the F&B industry, Rishi tells the Sunday Times over email.

What really sparked his interest in the culinary industry was the excitement that swelled around a busy kitchen Cafe in Melbourne. I was doing a dish washing job, he says of his work as a kitchen hand and he loved how much energy and enthusiasm was in that kitchen.

While working at Melbournes Taxi Dining Room restaurant, a book titled The Perfectionist - the story of French Chef Bernard Loiseas dream of earning a Michelin Star made an impression on him as he worked his way up to Sous Chef at the restaurant. I think that was the first time that I ever had a thought in my head of being able to get one someday. Since then, Ive always strived to work towards improving myself.

Whether I have a star or not, as an industry professional, Ill keep performing and strive to improve my craft. Apart from that, my team and I are always looking at ways that we can take the experience for our guests to the next level, he says.
Combating wildlife trafficking with detect and disrupt By Kumudini Hettiarachchi and Sinali Ranwala Born Free Foundations Associate Director for Asia and Oceania, Gabriel Fava says Sri Lanka is well equipped to tackle this global problem and should not be caught off-guard View(s): View(s):

Star tortoises, cockatoos, leopards, pangolins, white gold or ivory from elephant tusks, even frozen tiger-cubs and many more have a common but tragic thread woven into a tapestry that seems to cover the whole wide world.

The thread stretches from bio-piracy and bio-prospecting to wildlife trafficking, feeding a multi-billion dollar illegal trade, big business, which is pushing several fauna and flora to extinction.

It is to give voice to these grave concerns and urge for harder and joint crackdowns, international cooperation and better enforcement of the law that is already in place that a global expert in the form of the Born Free Foundations Associate Director for Asia and Oceania, Gabriel Fava, was in Colombo this week.

A proactive stance is what he is crusading for, instead of a reactive stance.

Illegal wildlife trafficking is such an obvious thing, it sounds simple, and seems easy to curb but sometimes the authorities may not see a poaching incidents connections to a wider issue, let alone at a global level even at a national level, was Gabriels contention when we met him on Monday.

He delivered the Wildlife and Nature Protection Societys monthly lecture on Thursday to a full-house at the BMICHs Cinema Hall and also met many enforcement agencies.

The frontline people such as the wildlife and police officers may not realize the magnitude of the issue. They may not realize that it is linked to an illegal trade, very similar to crime networks spanning not just countries and oceans but continents as well involved in drugs, arms and people smuggling, he said, reiterating that wildlife traffickers use many sources of information  open sources, documents et al and are boldly out in the open. They are also patrons of the Darknet which is a part of the Deepweb. This is about 500 times the size of the World Wide Web and used for the promotion of illegal goods including wildlife and should be analyzed and monitored.

Categorizing wildlife trafficking within the bigger picture that is transnational crime, Gabriel is quick to point out that it impacts heavily on national security. Corruption, money laundering and human trafficking..all are different sides of the same coin and are interconnected to wildlife, both animal and plant, trafficking. They have an impact on the national economy and a huge impact on the rule of law and governance. So, mitigating these impacts is beneficial to governments.

He earnestly urged Sri Lanka to use the same sources that traffickers use, as a weapon against them, while maximizing the already effective model encompassing the Police, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Customs that the country has in place to fight not only crime but also terrorism, while including the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) and any other relevant institution.

The model is to detect and disrupt and also prevent, while strengthening collaborations with external international agencies and utilizing the powerful international conventions already in place, says Gabriel lifting into view the well-known Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora and two crucial United Nations Conventions  the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNCTOC) and the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).

(UNCAC is the only legally-binding universal anti-corruption instrument. Its far-reaching approach and mandatory character make it a unique tool for developing a comprehensive response with regard to law enforcement, asset recovery and international cooperation.)

Theses conventions allow countries to work on collaborations, without signing memoranda of understanding and delaying crackdowns. There may be resource issues, but these conventions can be invoked immediately and used effectively, he advocated.

The next CITES meeting is scheduled to be held in Colombo in 2019.

Focusing on INTERPOL (the International Police Organization, an intergovernmental organization facilitating international police cooperation, based in Lyon, France), Gabriel says it has been very proactive. Thereafter, he details Operation COBRA, a fantastic multilateral cooperation and collective effort which mobilized regional enforcement networks and inter-governmental organizations in 62 countries led by INTERPOL under the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime. (An internet search revealed that COBRA which struck effectively in 2013, 2014 and 2015, bridged source, transit and destination countries of wildlife contraband jointly to fight transnational organized wildlife crime. The May 2015 COBRA strike had resulted in 139 arrests and more than 247 seizures including elephant ivory, medicinal plants, rhino horns, pangolins, rosewood, tortoises and many other plant and animal specimens.)

Operation COBRA brought in its wake huge amounts of seizures and arrests worldwide. In and on itself, a seizure is only one step, sometimes netting in the small fry, but the information gleaned from these operations is very valuable. Underscoring that it is important to catch the big people in wildlife crime, Gabriel said that action should really hit them where it hurts and should include asset seizure which is a very good measure. There is a view that national laws are inadequate but the laws are there and what is needed is application of these laws which is not done.

Corruption is a huge issue. There is no way that wildlife trafficking on this scale would happen without corruption and oiling of palms. Wildlife trafficking has been happening for a long time and they are in fact using lucrative pathways. In terms of usage and money, they are very old pathways that are involved, he said, seeking a firmer joining of hands and proper implementation of the rule of law.

With Sri Lanka having been on a war-footing for 30 long years, the view is that the country is already armed with a good capacity for intelligence and should not be caught off-guard with regard to wildlife trafficking but nip it in the bud to safeguard biodiversity.

Birth of Born Free Foundation It was an unforgettable movie of the 1960s  the classic wildlife film Born Free based on a best-seller by Joy Adamson relating the true story of George and Joy Adamsons battle to return Elsa the lioness, to the wild. The stars of the movie in addition to Elsa, of course, were Bill Travers and Virginia McKenna who journeyed all the way from Britain to Kenya for the shooting. Inter-acting closely with lions would change their lives, triggering a passion to ensure that wild creatures belong in the wild. This led to the birth of the Born Free Foundation in 1984 and Gabriel who has been with this charity since 2009 has worked with Virginia. Bill is no more. She is very active even though now she has stepped down as the President, handing over the reins to her son, Will, says Gabriel. Starting off with the mission of preventing individual animal suffering and keeping wildlife in the wild and rescue and care of animals in trouble, the Born Free Foundation has gradually moved into conservation and education as its main tasks. Gabriel had been propelled towards wildlife conservation after living on barren Malta, located in the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa, experiencing first-hand an island without any wildlife. Born in the United Kingdom (UK), he had moved to Malta, at the tender age of 6, as his father was from there. A colonial target, the island had been stripped of its wildlife, a trend which continued even after. Everyone took what they wanted, he says wryly, adding how beautiful migratory birds, small or big, were also shot down. Where earlier there had been pangolin and more native fauna, there is now only introduced species such as chameleon and just dogs and cats. Lack of exposure made me see the value of wildlife, says Gabriel who yearned for proper eco-systems. Going back to the UK when he was 18, he got into the line of ecology, securing a degree there. Joining Born Free Foundation in 2009, and working in the UK for a while, he now lives in Australia with his wife and two children. In Sri Lanka, Born Free Foundation, currently headed by Manori Gunawardena, has been supporting the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) since 2002 in running Ath Athuru Sevana, the Elephant Transit Home at the Uda Walawe National Park which cares for orphaned babies and then releases them back to the wild. It also works in tandem with the DWC to mitigate the human-elephant conflict (HEC) and curb wildlife crime. With regard to his work in the region, Gabriel turns the spotlight on the Tiger Rescue Facility run by the Born Free Foundation and ensconced within Karnatakas Bannerghatta National Park in India. A tiger released from the captivity of a zoo in Barcelona has found a home here amidst an enclosed wilderness as also three conflict tigers which have been preying on humans and cattle in the area. We believe these are the first captive tigers in India which have 24-hour access to the outdoors in a natural forested habitat, says Gabriel. Another animal which seems to be tugging very hard at his heart-strings is the cryptic pangolin, with its armoured shell and peculiar gait, the most trafficked mammal in the world. Pointing out that this slow-breeding creature is very sensitive and often dies in captivity, he laments that they were suctioned off from Southeast and East Asia and no one really caught on to this trend early in the day and very few of them are left. Now the illegal trafficking of pangolins has shifted gear and moved to Africa. There have been four pangolin cases last year in Sri Lanka, all being taken to Chennai, in South India which seems to be a hotbed for this illegal trade, chips in Manori, with Gabriel adding that every year over 100,000 pangolins who are threatened with extinction are captured from the wild in Asia and Africa illegally and killed for their meat and scales. The impact on the eco-system of such a massacre of this termite-eating creature would be devastating. You can have all the laws in place. But there remains a demand that draws in the victims, says Gabriel, calling for an end to that demand which is the swansong for pangolins.
Reaching out to patients with Dhamma, the mindful doctor UKs Buddhist Healthcare Chaplaincy Group (BHCG) Chairman Keith Munnings talks to Randima Attygalle View(s): View(s):

Those who attend on the sick, attend on me, professed Lord Buddha who Himself set the example by ministering to those who were sick and others who were left destitute. Lord Buddhas approach to health care and ministering to the sick encompassing both physical and spiritual wellbeing becomes even more relevant in the modern context where a holistic approach to health is advocated.

Offering such a spiritual solace through Dhamma within a medical setting of the UK is the Buddhist Healthcare Chaplaincy Group (BHCG). Founded in 2005, BHCG, offers guidance on mindfulness shaped by the Dhamma to patients and health care staff. The facility also offers palliative care.

Speaking to the Sunday Times, BHCG Group Chairman Keith Munnings, who was in Colombo recently, noted that Buddhist Healthcare Chaplaincy is in its infancy in the UK. Munnings, who was on his fifth visit to Sri Lanka, had been an authorized meditation teacher practising at the Samatha Trust Meditation School, UK since 1976 and a Buddhist chaplain for the past 12 years, offering pastoral, spiritual and religious care to staff and patients in a number of National Health Services Trusts. While in Sri Lanka, he gave public talks on Buddhist approaches and practices to healthcare and also engaged in a retreat in Ambuluwala. The visit was facilitated by the Damrivi Foundation. Presently Munnings is also developing a Trust policy and a programme of mindfulness mediation with the Hospital Chaplaincy Services back home.

What is most rewarding about Buddhist health care chaplaincy is the ability to integrate within diversity, says Munnings. Today we live in a melting pot of diversity and UK is one of the best examples. Buddhist health care chaplaincy has given a lot of opportunities to work together across diversity and most importantly, it is not about who we are but about meeting the needs of the ill and the vulnerable  those who are on a roller coaster of emotions, reflects the chaplain. He cites the words of Ven. Seelawimala, Abbot of the London Buddhist Vihara who describes Buddhist chaplaincy as a real opportunity to see the Dhamma. As Munnings asserts, Buddhist chaplaincy too is a means of finding freedom from or within sickness, ageing and death, in the same way as the Buddha did.

The need for Buddhist health care chaplaincy within a national health system is becoming more pressing globally, especially in the realms of mental health and cancer care, points out Munnings who is presently working inWythenshawe Hospital in South Manchester.

The community and monastic support in this process cannot be underpinned, he adds. To become an Endorsed Buddhist Healthcare Chaplain, a potential candidate should go through a process stipulated by the Buddhist Healthcare Chaplaincy Group (BHCG) The endorsing group consists of Buddhists from a number of different Buddhist traditions and endorsement is open to individuals willing to minister to Buddhists of any tradition, explains Munnings. The endorsing body for Buddhists mirrors similar bodies formed by members of other faiths.

The preparatory path towards Buddhist health care chaplaincy is a systematic one where potential chaplains need to train within the BHCG and abide by the five chaplaincy principles. The mentor system plays a huge role in this process and quite a lot of time is given for reflective practice, points out Munnings. While maintaining a spiritual life, a chaplain should not proselytize. A chaplain should never seek to convert or recommend others to ones faith. However this principle does not forbid an individual from witnessing to his/her own faith or confidence in the Dhamma. Working across faiths while respecting boundaries is fundamental.

The principles also articulate that the chaplain will also aspire to ecumenism which are initiatives aimed at greater understanding or cooperation among diverse Buddhist schools, traditions or ethnic groups. Working across faiths and updating his/her skills are also fundamentals a chaplain should abide by.

For Munnings, the most rewarding aspect of being a Buddhist healthcare chaplain is the human interaction it offers- both with patients and staff. Offering a new lease of life whenever possible is just overwhelming. For the hospital staff who are under enormous stress, the experience of meditation is very therapeutic, adds the chaplain with a smile. Sharing the story of a patient who after a heart transplant had urged Munnings to show him the way to come to terms with the hardest thing which ever befell him, he asserts that mindfulness practice helped him brave his crisis and ultimately brought a new perspective of life. He was about 40 and a director of an electronics research company and when I met him two years later, his comment was that the experience took his relationship with his staff to a complete different footing where he is fully engaged in their development. Healthcare chaplaincy also entails numerous challenges and as the chaplain points out, assessing the needs of a patient and imparting mindfulness within a context of sickness and dying means a lot.

Raised as a Christian, Munnings interest in Buddhism was kindled when he came across a Buddhist meditation class conducted by the celebrated meditation guru and academic, Dr. Lance Cousins who founded the Samatha Trust. The Trust also shares strong historical links with Sri Lanka he says. As a 22-year-old Munnings discovered meditation which brought him clarity in life which nothing else could have made possible he says. A teacher of mathematics and physics by profession, Munnings now finds more time to devote himself to Buddhist healthcare chaplaincy in his retirement. My mentor Dr. Cousins helped me find the keys to the path of life in the Buddhist tradition as he did for so many others and Im humbled to help several more find keys for themselves, notes the chaplain with a smile.
Segars paintings at Focus on Asia exhibition in South Korea By Tarini Pilapitiya View(s): View(s):

September 29 will mark the 14th edition of the Gongju International Arts Festival at the Limlip Art Museum in Gongju City, Korea. This year the festival themed Focus On Asia will have 50 artists from 12 Asian countries presenting 450 artworks. Representing Sri Lanka at this prestigious exhibition will be acclaimed artist D. Raja Segar who will exhibit 12 oil paintings. The exhibition will continue till November 30 this year.

South Koreas Ambassador Chang Won-sam said, I believe that this will be an ideal opportunity to further strengthen the mutual understanding and friendship between our two countries. He said Segars invitation to the Arts Festival falls parallel to the 40th Anniversary celebrations of diplomatic ties between South Korea and Sri Lanka this year.

One of Sri Lankas leading painters, Segars life story is as inspiring as his work. Well known for experimenting with refractive light, he has exhibited regularly in Sri Lanka and abroad, including in Australia, Britain, Malaysia, Singapore and Canada.

This exhibition will mark Segars first showing in Korea and he aims to highlight the essence of the island by portraying the day to day lifestyle of Sri Lankans. Im very proud to represent Sri Lanka, says the artist, affirming the need for a greater international presence by local artists. We need more opportunities like this where we have platforms to present our paintings to an international audience.

In collaboration with Segar, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea will host a Preview of 30 of D. Raja Segars works on September 22 to 23 at the Embassy (98, Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7) to give art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy Segars paintings, including the works that will be exhibited at the Gongju Arts Festival. The exhibition will be open to the public on Saturday, September 23, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sri Lanka needs to leap into the 2000s foodwise Here to assist the MJF Charitable Foundations culinary school, Michelin star chef, Sri Lankan-born Rishi Naleendra talks to Shakya Wickramanayake View(s): View(s):

They are the Oscars of the culinary world. Being awarded a Michelin star is an honour most chefs can only dream of. In June this year, Rishi Naleendra became the first Sri Lankan chef to receive a Michelin star. The 32-year-old, now an Australian citizen received the accolade for his Singapore restaurant, Cheek by Jowl which he runs with his wife Manuela Toniolo.

Rishi was in Sri Lanka last week for the opening of a new restaurant at Fairway Colombo and a library at the MJF Charitable Foundations culinary school for the empowerment of aspiring chefs.

Born and raised in Sri Lanka, though brought up in a family engaged in the catering business, Rishi chose to take up architecture leaving to Australia for his higher studies at the age of 18. But while working in restaurants and cafes on a part-time basis, he had a change of heart and switched to culinary studies. My parents were ok with it. It meant I got citizenship faster. The agreement was that I was to finish up architecture after I got my citizenship, he says somewhat sheepishly.

But having chosen to embark on this journey into the culinary world for pragmatic reasons, along the way Rishi fell in love with it. I love being able to be creative with it, he says.

He cut his teeth in award-winning establishments in Australia including the Taxi Dining Room in Melbourne, Tetsuya in Sydney, and Brent Savages Yellow, and moved to Singapore to head the restaurant Maca. It was there that he was discovered by the owner of the Unlisted Collection (a Singaporean company that owns several boutique hotels and restaurants in the region). This chance meeting led to the opening of Cheek by Jowl in February last year.

At Cheek by Jowl, it isnt Sri Lankan food on the menu but rather modern Australian fare. His choice of contemporary Australian cuisine means Rishi is breaking the stereotypical mould that an Asian chef can only excel in Asian cuisines, especially outside his own country. Though proud of his rich heritage he doesnt want to be identified for Sri Lankan fare alone, but rather be known for producing good food. You cant appreciate just one type of food, he says, stating that though he deals with modern Western cuisine and Australian produce, when he comes back to the island he enjoys tucking into kottu from the famous Plaza in Colombo, or snacking on short-eats from Perera and Sons, unequivocally stating that he loves anything that tastes good.

The food and beverage industry in the island, though, he feels is still stuck in the 1960s and 70s and needs to update. We have 45 years to catch up on. We cant play this catch up game (and) upgrade from the 70s to the 80s. We need to jump to the 2000s, he states emphatically. Its not just the food but the service and the perception surrounding the dining experience that is outdated, he believes. He points out how the notion that guests are superior to those who serve them is still prevalent here. Customers arent better than the server or the guy who washes dishes .Customers are there to be part of what we do and we will count them as one of us. They are coming into our lives for a couple of hours, he says matter-of-factly.

Perhaps this condescending attitude towards those in the service industry is explained through the misconception the general public has regarding the capabilities and intelligence of those working in the industry. There is a school drop-out perspective about chefs in Sri Lanka, says Rishi, noting that chefs too have to constantly learn and that knowledge has the ability to change lives. Which is why he chose to donate books to the Empower Culinary and Hospitality School run by the MJF Charitable Foundation founded by tea magnate Merrill J. Fernando to empower young people through culinary education.

Rishi first got involved in the project when he met Dilhan Fernando at the Sri Lankan night he hosted at Cheek by Jowl. Having donated the earnings from the event to relief efforts for Sri Lankan flood victims in 2016, Rishi was looking for ways to give back to the country. Chatting with Dilhan Fernando, a director of Dilmah and the son of its founder about their culinary school, he was eager to help. But the Foundation believing that charity must come from within does not accept monetary donations. So instead it was suggested that Rishi share his expertise with the students and as part of this, he donated 140 books on cuisine, worth USD 5000 to the school. Knowledge changes your life. You cant put a dollar value on it, he says; he hopes these books will inspire the schools young chefs and help them bring the food and beverage industry in the country into the 21st century.

Meanwhile Lankan foodies can have a taste of Rishis culinary skills too  he has partnered with Cantaloupe &Co to open up the bistro- bar Botanik on the rooftop of Fairway Colombo in Fort. The produce in the country is amazing, he says and he hopes to highlight it in all his dishes.

His hope is to give Sri Lankan diners a modern Western dining experience, and perhaps herald a change. Food is like fashion, it needs to be updated, he says.
Escalation of the world drug problem By Professor Ravindra Fernando View(s): View(s):

The amount of narcotic drugs seized by the police had increased in Sri Lanka, according to the latest reports presented to Parliament.

A total of 388,722 Kgs of narcotic drugs had been seized in 2016 compared to 13, 548 Kgs in 2015. This included 36,817 Kgs of ganja, 15 Kgs of opium, 27 Kgs of hashish, 205 Kgs of heroin, and 1,302 Kgs of cocaine seized by the police in 2016.

The total amount of ganja seized in 2015 was 13,253 Kgs, while four Kgs of hashish, 44 Kgs of heroin and 44 Kgs of cocaine were found in the same year. Year 2016 can be considered as a year in which dangerous intoxicant drugs had been seized on a large scale. The number of reported offences relating to this subject remains at a similar level as those reported last year. The police was able to maintain a solving percentage similar to that of the previous years, which was 98%.

Last month, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development Sagala Ratnayaka stated that a special anti-narcotic force has been created to curb the international narcotic trade in Sri Lanka. We have a responsibility to the nation, to the region and to the world to stop these activities, he said adding that Sri Lanka hopes to carry out programmes with international assistance to eradicate the drug menace.

The minister pointed out that Sri Lanka is located strategically at a pivotal point for major drug cartels to utilise as a transit hub and some of the narcotics that pass through Sri Lanka remains in the country. We are fighting this on two angles. One is our responsibility to the region and the world and also to ensure that there are no drugs in Sri Lanka. We are going to fight both very hard, he said.

The minister said Sri Lanka is working very closely with the countries in the region to eradicate the drug trade, and also within Sri Lanka, a new police unit called Organized Crime and Narcotics Range has been created. The unit is headed by a senior DIG and he has been given a very talented team to work on the task, the minister added.

Minister Ratnayaka stated that Sri Lanka had become a transit point for mass scale drug trafficking by major drug cartels due to the prolonged illicit activities of the Tamil tiger rebels. Confirming the ministers statement, Sri Lanka Customs has arrested a 54-year-old Pakistani national attempting to smuggle 376 grams of heroin worth 3.7 million rupees last month at the Bandaranaike International Airport. He has arrived from Bangkok. The heroin was found concealed in the suspects hand luggage.

Internationally, the drug situation is getting worse. The federal government of the USA just put out new statistics for drug overdose deaths in 2016. They are very, very grim. The preliminary figures from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) suggest that there were more than 64,000 drug overdose deaths in 2016. In a shocking, but not quite surprising revelation, synthetic opioids like fentanyl overtook both heroin and prescription painkillers in terms of overdose deaths.

Based on the NCHS figures, traditional opioid painkillers, such as OxyContin and Percocet (a combination of paracetamol and oxycodone) were involved in about 14,400 overdose deaths in 2016, and heroin was involved in more than 15,400. Percocet is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. Non-methadone synthetic opioids like fentanyl were linked to more than 20,100 overdose deaths. The remaining overdose deaths involved other drugs, such as cocaine.

If these numbers hold up (and final figures will come out later this year), it solidifies the opioid epidemic as Americas deadliest overdose crisis ever! (In comparison, more than 58,000 US soldiers died in the entire Vietnam War, nearly 55,000 Americans died of car crashes at the peak of such deaths in 1972, more than 43,000 died due to HIV/AIDS during that epidemics peak in 1995, and nearly 40,000 died of guns during the peak of firearm deaths in 1993.)

The numbers show the evolution of the opioid epidemic. It originally began as a crisis rooted in the dramatic over-prescription of opioids. But over time, many users moved onto other opioids, particularly heroin and fentanyl. Fentanyl is an opioid pain medication with a rapid onset and short duration of action.

In the mid-1990s, Fentanyl was introduced for palliative use with the fentanyl patch. As of 2012, Fentanyl was the most widely used synthetic opioid in medicine. Fentanyl patches are on the World Health Organisations List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. Fentanyl is an approved drug in Sri Lanka.

Medical examiners and coroners in the USA are increasingly testing for opioids due to much greater awareness of the crisis. Some of the increases in numbers are partly attributable to the fact that people are looking for these deaths now. Still, a bulk of the increase is likely due to a genuine rise in overdose deaths.

The latest drug epidemic is not solely about illegal drugs. It began, in fact, with a legal drug. Back in the 1990s, doctors were persuaded to treat pain as a serious medical issue. There is a good reason for that: About 100 million US adults suffer from chronic pain, according to a 2011 report from the Institute of Medicine.

Pharmaceutical companies took advantage of this concern. Through a big marketing campaign, they got doctors to prescribe products like OxyContin and Percocet in droves, even though the evidence for opioids treating long-term, chronic pain is very weak (despite their effectiveness for short-term, acute pain), while the evidence that opioids cause harm in the long term is very strong.

Painkillers proliferated, landing in the hands of not just patients but also teens rummaging through their parents medicine cabinets, other family members and friends of patients, and the black market!

As a result, opioid overdose deaths trended up  sometimes involving opioids alone, at other times involving drugs like alcohol and benzodiazepines, typically prescribed to relieve anxiety. By 2015, opioid overdose deaths totaled more than 33,000  close to two-thirds of all drug overdose deaths.

Yet many people who lost access to painkillers are still addicted. Some who could no longer obtain painkillers turned to cheaper, more potent opioids: heroin and fentanyl. Attorney General Jeff Sessions of the USA recently called drug overdose deaths the top lethal issue in the USA and urged law enforcement and social workers to create and foster a culture thats hostile to drug use. Sessions spoke to the annual conference of the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children. He said preliminary data show nearly 60,000 overdose deaths in the US in 2016, the highest ever. Our current drug epidemic is indeed the deadliest in American history. Weve seen nothing like it, said Sessions.

According to Canadas Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), three Toronto-area men were responsible for allegedly importing more than 1,000 kilograms of pure cocaine worth $250 million into Canada from Argentina recently. Bricks of cocaine were hidden in blocks of cement. Three men face drug importation and drug trafficking charges.

The drug problem in Asia is also getting worse. The Border Security Force in Bangladesh has seized 3,045 bottles of banned cough syrup Phensedyl near the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengals Berhampur. Phensedyl cough syrup contains chlorpheniramine maleate and codeine phosphate as active ingredients.

The bottles were to be smuggled into Bangladesh, where these cough syrups are banned and selling them is punishable.

Last year, Bangladeshs government had taken a major step to ban the manufacturing of codeine-based cough syrups, which were earlier easily available at chemist shops. These syrups, which are being sold under different brand names, had become a major menace as many youths became addicted to them.

Although Codeine-based cough syrups are effective in suppressing coughs and colds, their misuse emerged as a major problem. The active ingredient Codeine is a narcotic belonging to a class of chemicals called opioids. Delhi is rapidly turning into a hub for the drug trade. In the past six months, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), together with the Special Cell of Delhi Police  both functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)  has seized drugs worth Indian rupees 300 crore (3,000 million) in the national capital.

According to the anti-smuggling cell of the NCB, starting from January 2017 till July this year, the NCB, working jointly with the special cell of the Delhi Police, has seized drugs worth Rs. 300 crore. An NCB official said that the NCBs alertness has helped to crack down on the drug trade in the city and cartels are being busted. The NCB has become strong and that is the reason why we are busting one or the other drug cartel the country. The centre wants to strengthen the NCB to combat illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, which is fuelling terrorism on Indian soil, a senior NCB official said on the condition of anonymity.

Responding to a query regarding why, despite the seizures, drugs are freely available in the capital, the official said there was a need for increased intervention of the police to curb retail drug peddling. The NCB has limited resources and we cannot be present everywhere, something which the police can easily do. The policing system in the capital needs to be more serious about this. They need to take action against the small drug peddlers who do not come on our radar, he said.

Sri Lanka is not alone in the fight against drugs. Led by the Ministry of Law and Order and Southern Development, the police, security forces, Civil Defence Force, Special Task Force, customs, excise and National Dangerous Drugs Control Board of Sri Lanka are in the forefront of this struggle.

(The writer is the Chairman of the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board.)
Lotus Tower: Chinas Buddhist way to navigate geopolitics By Patrick Mendis The past as prologue in Sino-Sri Lanka intercourse View(s): View(s):

Indian Prime Minister and Hindu nationalist Narendra Modi was recently the chief guest for the celebrations of Vesak Daythe birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddhain the predominantly Buddhist island-nation of Sri Lanka. After the May meeting with Modi in Colombo, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe took an unprecedented step of refusing to host a Chinese nuclear submarine, and then soon arrived in Beijing to attend the Belt and Road Forum (BRF) with President Xi Jinping and 28 other leaders. The Indian premier, who purposefully skipped the Beijing Summit, was concerned about the evolving Indian Ocean maritime security posture, as Colombo harbour is being used for more than 70 percent of Indian transshipment and trade relations.

In the meantime, China and Sri Lanka will, by the end of 2017, celebrate the completion of the $100 million USD plus, all-encompassing Lotus Tower in the heart of Colombo. With a revolving restaurant at the top of the 350-metre high Lotus Tower, which was named in deference to the Buddhas Lotus Sutra, the rising structure cleverly embodies a Buddhist emblem of peace and prosperity. The Buddhist landmark, which is 26 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower, harkens back to the ancient power that once radiated from the Middle Kingdom until the arrival of European colonial rulers in Sri Lanka, India, and China.

The brightly glowing physical edificegiving a new visual impact intended to be seen from Indiamanifests Chinese leader Deng Xiaopings foreign policy slogan of a Peaceful Rise, with the Lotus Tower set to be the tallest structure in South Asia and the nineteenth tallest building in the world. The iconic building on the Colombo skyline, with its highly-sophisticated information technology and communication capabilities, has already begun to unsettle neighbouring India, as it was allegedly designed to monitor conversations in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

For defence analysts, this elaborate complex is an electronic surveillance facility funded by the Chinese Export-Import Bank. It is being constructed by the China National Electronics Import and Export Corporation (CEIEC) and the Chinese Aerospace LongMarch International Trade (CALMIT), which are subsidiaries of the Peoples Liberation Army of China. Emphasising the three integrations strategy, the CEIEC is engaged in defence electronics system integration, overseas engineering integration, and business solutions integration, among others. The CALMIT is involved in the aerospace industry, specialising in the export and import of defence equipment technology and services as well as the export of anti-terrorism, anti-riot technologies and services, among other activities. Beijing, however, maintains that its purpose has always been the navigation and management of Chinas maritime affairs to rebuild a commercial civilisation that had existed prior to colonial rule.

Connectivity for prosperity

Sri Lankaknown as the Crown Pearl of Chinas multibillion dollar New Silk Road plan, which connects Hong Kong and the rest of the Pearl River delta in Chinas Guangdong province through the Indian Ocean to the Pearl Square of Bahrain in the Persian Gulfis being viewed as Beijings grand strategy to dominate the Indian Ocean region and beyond. Originally known as the String of Pearls military strategy, these undertakings have triggered legitimate fear of Beijing. China is essentially encircling India with its concircling (containing and circling) strategy of various infrastructure and development projects in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of the connectivity for prosperity plan. During his historic visit to Sri Lanka in September 2014, President Xi described the island as a splendid pearl while the two countries signed over twenty bilateral agreements in Colombo.

Strategically located at the southern tip of India, the centuries-old maritime island has consciously tried to further develop its friendly relations with India while the Colombo government has now begun talking about concluding a Free Trade Agreement with China by December 2017. Of the 20 million people on the island, over 70 percent of the Buddhist majority has a kindred spiritual connection with China as opposed to a punctuated history of ethnic, religious, and ancient warfare with its northern neighbour, India.

Prime Minister Modi, during his visit, reminded the Sri Lankan people that India has had a more enduring shared heritage of Buddhism than that of the newly assertive China with its recent Buddhist diplomacy. The insightful Xiwhose youthful encounter with Buddhism in contrast to other Chinese leaders including Chairman Mao Zedongappears to have engineered a remarkable facelift for the 87-million-strong Chinese Communist Party with his rejuvenation of Chinas spiritual life through an embrace of Chinese religious heritage for governance. Similar to former non-ethnic Han Chinese emperors like in the Yuan and Qing dynasties, the pragmatist Xi was drawn to Buddhism during his early career and had a seeming belief in supernatural forces even saying that if the people have faith, the nation has hope, and the country has strength. In light of slowing economic growth and mounting social tensions, President XiChinas most powerful leader since Chairman Maohas evidently returned to the spiritual revival of the unifying forces of Daoist, Confucius, and Buddhist traditions.

Buddhism as a vehicle

Even though Buddhism was imported into China from India and Sri Lanka by purpose-driven itinerant monks, merchants, and imperial emissaries of the Middle Kingdom, the amalgamation of these spiritual and ethical traditions has developed into a so-called Chan Buddhism. Thus, the unifying nature of these moral and religious forces has long been associated with political power and cultural authority. As Prime Minister Modis new foreign policy is anchored in Buddhist diplomacy, he also acknowledged the inherent power of Chinas Buddhist diplomacy that is illustrated by its religious and ancient links to Sri Lanka. That shared heritage had indeed laid the foundation for the mutual affinity and friendship between the two countries. For the Sri Lankan Buddhists as well as the minority Indian Buddhists which make up less than one percent of the Indian population, Modia devout Hindu, whose philosophical bedrock is derived from his ruling Bharatiya Janata Partybecame a frightening prospect for Buddhists, Muslims, and other religious and ethnic groups in India, especially given the recent rise of more deadly and violent Hindu nationalism.

Buddhism had departed from its birthplace in India after the golden period of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka the Great (from 304 to 232 BCE). The visionary Buddhist emperor sent his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitta to Sri Lanka as emissaries to propagate the teachings of Buddha. Afterward, the island nation proudly became the defender of the faith and promoter of Buddhas original teachings and a renowned ancient epicenter of Buddhist learning for both the Mahayana (the greater vehicle) and the Theravada (school of the elders) traditions in the capital city of Anuradhapura from 500 BC to 993 AD.

With the patronage of members of the ruling dynasties, monks, and merchants, the millennia-old harmonious metropolis became the ecclesiastical home to three massive monastic complexes of the Mahavihara, Abhayagiri, and Jetavana. Continuing the ancient practice of the ruling dynasty, the Constitution of the Republic of Sri Lanka gives Buddhism the foremost place and the state has assumed the duty to protect and foster the Buddha Sasana (the Buddhist doctrine or order) with its cabinet-level government Ministry of Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs. Unlike the separation of church and state in the United States, the prevailing political powers in China, India, and Sri Lanka have for the most part used religion as a source of inspiration, unity, and authority for governance and economic prosperity.

Monks and merchants

A deeply religious and commercial nation for millennia, Sri Lanka has always acted as a magnifying conduit to diffuse Buddhas noble Dharmic teachings around the world and attracted Buddhist scholars like the famous Chinese Monk Fa-Hsien (399 to 414 CE) during the Eastern Jin dynasty. He later adopted the spiritual name Faxian: the Splendour of Dharma or the teachings of Buddha.

Another legendary Chinese monk-scholar Xuanzang (602 to 664 CE) in the Buddhist Golden Age of the Tang dynasty was inspired by Fa-Hsiens travel but the Tang envoy was not able to visit Sri Lanka. During his 15-year study tour in India, Xuanzang, who is credited with spreading Buddhist teachings in China, learned about Sri Lanka. Describing the Sorrowless Kingdom of Sri Lanka in his Buddhist Records of the Western World, Xuanzang wrote, By the side of the kings palace is the vihara [temple] of the Buddhas tooth, . . . brilliant with jewels and ornamented with rare gems. Above the Vihara is placed an upright pole on which is fixed a great Padma raja (ruby) jewel. This gem constantly sheds a brilliant light, which is visible night and day for a long distance, and from afar appears like a bright star.

This elaborate narrative and other details of his Tang era records had a profound impact on Chinese literary history, giving birth to the celebrated fictional epic, Journey to the West, in the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). More importantly, however, his writinghighlighting the bright star in the Buddhist kingdomhas a consequential influence on the Sino-Sri Lankan relationship. Like the bright star in his commentary, the Buddhist-inspired Colombo Tower is consciously being constructed to project the literary work of Xuanzang that would symbolically to replicate the ancient glory, but now the rising lotus flower, taking the place of a radiant ruby gem, represents the light of Buddhist peace and prosperity visible all the way from India.

In his famed travelogue, Record of the Buddhist Kingdoms, Fa-Hsien wrote about his two-year stay in Sri Lanka and described the decorative ceremonies overseen by the local king to worship the Buddhas sacred tooth. His writings of Buddhist relic veneration for peace and prosperity contributed to similar traditions and rituals by Chinese emperors. Thus, the contributions made by Fa-Hsien and Xuanzang established reciprocal and enriched traditions as the new footprints are being developed for future Sino-Sri Lanka connectivity.

These itinerant monks also developed mutually beneficial relationships with merchants and built a network of monastic communities and thriving cities along the ancient Silk Road. This kind of interactive codependency between the spiritual-seeking monks and the profit-driven merchants from local and distant lands created a model of commercial civilization and a Chinese world order.

During the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great (1153-86) of Sri Lanka, for example, the prosperous Kingdom of Polonnaruwawith its Buddhist monuments, hospitals, irrigated rice fields, and a network of reservoirs and navigable canalsmaintained extensive trading relations with many Southeast Asian and Middle East countries as well as India and China. A century later in the reign of King Parakramabahu III (1287-93), Sri Lanka imported swords and musical instruments from China and Chinese soldiers served in the kings army to protect trading ships from Burmese piracy in the Bay of Bengal.

Buddhas tooth: Marco Polo and Zheng He

The Chinese imperial interest in Sri Lanka goes back to the Great Emperor Kublai Khan in the 13th century who believed in Buddhist treasuresespecially the Buddhas tooth relicas magnet for unifying the culturally, religiously, and linguistically diverse Chinese nation. The Mongolian founder of the Yuan dynasty sent the legendary representative Marco Polo twice in 1284 and 1293 to Sri Lanka with the intent of taking the sacred tooth relics of Buddha back to China. The eyewitness records of Fa-Hsiens traveloguewritten in the fifth-centurydescribed the Buddhist treasures in Sri Lanka, and his Chinese translation of Pali and Sanskrit Buddhist texts was widely known since the beginning of the Yuan dynasty in addition to the writings of Xuanzang.

In the beginning of the fifteenth century, the Ming emperors Muslim envoy Admiral Zheng He (13711435) embarked on extensive treasure voyages to the Indian Ocean and first visited Sri Lanka in 1405. In traditional Confucian manner, the admiral demanded that the Sinhalese king pay tribute and obedience to the Yongle Emperor, the Son of Heaven. The Ming visitor also reportedly wanted to take back the sacred bowl, hair, and tooth relics of the Buddhathe islands spiritual treasures for more than a millennium.

The Ming admirals second visit in 1410 led to a military conflict between the expeditionary forces of the Ming dynasty and the Sinhalese Kotte kingdom on the Buddhist island. The Ming-Kotte War ostensibly aimed to stop piracy and local hostilities that threatened the Chinese treasure fleets as well as to acquire the tooth relic. Naturally, the ruling King Alakeshvarathe guardian of Buddhas relicswas unsure of the hidden intentions of the foreign visitor as Roman, Greek, Jewish, Persian, Arab merchants had landed on the island to obtain treasures in the past. When the king refused Admiral Zhengs request to erect a trilingual tablet (from the Ming capital of Nanjing) and pay tribute to the Ming emperorthinking it was a symbol of surrender to Chinese sovereignty, the disappointed envoy returned to the island after visiting India.

With two thousand sailors, the admiral laid siege to Kotte and captured the Sinhalese King Alakeshvara, his queen, and other notables. Admiral Zheng took these prisoners to China to apologize to the Ming emperor for their misdeeds, who instead pardoned the king for his ignorance in 1411. When the captors returned with the emperors nominee to the islands throne in 1414, the powerful new King Parakramabahu VI of Kotteinstated in the absence of the captured kingquickly rejected the arriving Chinese emissary. This was historically a very rare incident to what were otherwise relatively peaceful seven voyages of the Ming admiral between 1405 and 1433 to over 30 countries in the Indian Ocean.

Apart from religious and political objectives in Sri Lanka, the Chinese expeditions in general were commercially motivated. The archeological stele, discovered in 1911 at the southern port city of Galle, dated to 1409, has a trilingual inscriptionin Chinese, Persian, and Tamilindicating that the purpose of Admiral Zhengs visit was to announce the mandate of the Ming emperor to recognize his legitimacy among foreign rulers. According to the inscription on the stele, the Ming diplomat offered valuable gifts like gold, silver, and silk to a local Buddhist temple on Adams Peak (or Sri Pada, the great footprint of Buddha) mountain. The Tamil script praised the god Vishnu; the Persian text invoked Allah. The inscription had a clear unifying message to the world invoking the blessings of the Hindu deities here for a peaceful world built on trade. As in Chan Buddhism, it was the underlying transcendental idea of Tianxia in ancient China that all under Heaven are brothers and sisters.

As such, commercial and people-to-people cultural diplomacy remained one of the most enduring aspects of Sino-Sri Lanka relations since the Ming treasure fleets arrived in the island. In 1459, for instance, a royal mission from the Kingdom of Kotte ended in shipwreck, leaving the princean adopted son of King Parakramabahu VIin the coastal city of Quanzhou in Fujian province. The Chinese authorities discovered Xushi Yineone of the nineteenth-generation descendants of the fifteenth century Sri Lankan princepopularly known as the Ceylon princes in Quanzhouwho became a historic testament to peaceful interactions between the two nations.

A sleeping giant  friend in need

Due to colonialism, Sino-Sri Lanka relations were dormant for almost 500 years until Sri Lanka gained its independence from the Portuguese, the Dutch, and lastly from the British in 1948. The newly independent island established its first bilateral agreement on the rubber and rice trade with the newly founded Peoples Republic of China in 1952. Formal diplomatic relations began to expand after 1957; the completion of the massive Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in 1973 was a landmark of friendship. The fifth Non-aligned Summit in 1976chaired by Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaikewas held at BMIC, hosting over 80 heads of state.

With this brief post-colonial historical backdrop, Sri Lanka re-established close relations with China more recently as Beijing provided military, financial, and diplomatic support for Sri Lanka to end the more than quarter century old Eelam War in May 2009. With India (and the United States) declining to offer military assistance during the war, Sri Lanka has naturally been drawn into the Chinese model of commercial engagement rooted in historical links.

As a strategically located islandwith a highly-educated and entrepreneurial populationSri Lanka has regained its prominence in travel and commerce in the Indian Ocean. After the war, China began to modernise the islands infrastructure with a multibillion-dollar Chinese investment in the newly built deep-sea Hambantota Port, the Mattala International Airport, the Colombo Port City, the Colombo-Galle high-speed motorway, among other development projects. These gigantic projects were, however, designed to serve Chinese commercial needs and access to export markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe than to benefit the ordinary islanders.

In the overall trade ledger of Sri Lanka, the Sino-Sri Lanka trade is one-sided with hardly any significant exports to China. For example, the top export market destinations of Sri Lanka in 2015 were the United States ($3 billion USD), the United Kingdom ($1 billion USD), India ($830 million USD), Germany ($584 million USD), and Italy ($420 million USD) while the top import origins were from India ($5 billion USD), China ($4 billion USD), Japan ($1 billion USD), France ($1 billion USD) and the United Arab Emirates ($986 million USD).

To boost the import revenues of Sri Lanka, there are a slowly increasing number of Chinese tourists who have become frequent visitors to enjoy the sandy beaches and the natural wonders of the island. But more importantly, they are calling upon the places of Buddhist worshipincluding the renowned Buddhist Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic of the Dalada Maligawa in Kandy and the legendary Pahiyangala or Fa-Hsien Rock Cave in Kalutaraand other ancient sites of cultural and historic interest.

The debt trap and fear of dominance

Amid all this, the Colombo government now owes China over $8 billion USD in development project loans. More recently, influential policymakers, nationalists, and Buddhist monks have opposed the Chinese-built port city of Hambantota (and the proposed industrial zone) for granting a 80 percent of stake of a 99-year lease to a state-owned Chinese company as part of a debt-swap scheme. The Hambantota harbor, the port city of Colombo, and other colossal elephant projects in the connectivity for prosperity plan have hardly benefited the common people. Indeed, the alleged beneficiaries of these massive projects have been the suddenly enriched family members and the inner circle of officials of the Mahinda Rajapaksa presidency. To benefit the average Sri Lankan, however, the multitude of monks, merchants, and other stakeholders must also be included, as they have been in the past spiritual and commercial interactions.

Even though the emerging Sino-Sri Lankan relationship could be heralded as momentous in their post-Eelam War, and cultural and economic collaboration is widely viewed as mutually beneficial for the two nations, Buddhist activism and nationalism in a parliamentary democracy could invoke fear and danger for the sustainability of its historic relationship with China. Subtly, there exists a growing national consciousness of the Ming-Kotte War and its consequence of reported intention of putting the island nation under Chinese sovereigntyas a tributary state of Beijing.

Nevertheless, President Xi at the Belt and Road Summit in May reminded that China will not interfere in other countries internal affairs. [China] will not export our system of society and development model, and even more will not impose our views on others. This may be a justifiably accurate narrative of the Chinese officialdom. For many observers, however, the port visits of naval ships and nuclear submarines in Colombo have challenged Beijings public statements and its intentions.

With the Lotus Tower rising from the waterfront of the picturesque Beira Lake in the commercial district, the prospect of reviving the American glory of trade-for-peace idea through the BRI must include the aspirations of ordinary peopleas well as the monks and merchants.
Fall is my favorite time of year. The leaves are falling, the pumpkin spice lattes are steaming, and the festivals are all around. Before moving to Germany I was worried: how could I recreate my love of The State Fair of Texas!? Luckily, I had absolutely nothing to worry about. The festivals are plentiful; almost every small town to big city boasts a fest this time of year. Each one has it's own spin on food, drinks, and fun. I've collected the best Fall festivals in Germany you need to attend.

Updated for 2020!

Check out my guide to the best places for Fall in Europe right here.

The Best Fall Festivals in Germany

1. Oktoberfest, Munich

You can't think of Germany without Oktoberfest. Bavaria's crazy, over-crowded tents filled with people singing and drinking beer. What surprised me most about Oktoberfest is just how beautiful it is. Ornately decorated tents that differ in decor and size boasting delicious beer and food. You can also walk around the ground (for free!), ride on the Ferris wheel, play carnival games, and watch the horses pulling the kegs full of beer. It's the perfect excuse to dress up in lederhosen or a dirndl and feel like a Bavarian. See my ultimate guide to Oktoberfest right here.

When is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is cancelled for 2020.

See also:

What No One Tells You About Oktoberfest

45 Essential Oktoberfest Tips

2. Herbstfest, Heidelberg

This is a lovely little festival that takes place in my current residence, Heidelberg, Germany. You'll find stalls filled with crafts, food, and my personal favorite neu wine. Neu wine is the product of fermented freshly pressed grape juice which is alcoholic and tasty. Watch the opening day procession of our town mascot, Perkeo (the court jester who literally only drank wine) make his way down the lovely main street. At night there are concerts and plenty of trinkets to buy.

When is Herbstfest? The last Saturday in September, but cancelled for 2020.

See my full guide to Heidelberg.

3. Pumpkin Festival, Ludwigsburg

Pumpkins make me inexplicably happy. Pumpkin flavored things are some of my all time favorite foods. Combine that with the largest pumpkin festival in the world and I'm over the moon. Truly, the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival is one of the best. The largest and most interesting pumpkins from around the world along with all you can dream of pumpkin flavored food makes for a memorable time. Oh, it also takes place at a castle.

When is the pumpkin festival? 28 Aug 2020  1 Nov 2020. Find their website here.

See the full guide to the pumpkin festival.

4. Beer Festival, Stuttgart (Cannstatter Volksfest)

Image via.

You don't have to go to Munich to get the Oktoberfest experience. You can also go to Stuttgart! This is the second largest beer festival in the world. The Stuttgart Beer Festival takes places every year for about 14 to 16 days at the Cannstatter Wasen in Bad Cannstatt. This festival dates all the way back to 1818 when King Wilhelm I sponsored the festival after years of hunger to celebrate the harvest. You'll find live music, food, and of course, beer.

When is the Beer Festival in Stuttgart? There are two options, spring and fall. 2020 is cancelled.

5. Gaubodenvolksfest, Straubing

Image via.

The Gaubodenvolksfest might seem similar to Oktoberfest or Beer Festival in Stuttgart but it has it's own story. It just seems to me that Germans enjoy beer and celebrating its history. This festival was founded in 1812 by Maximilian I Joseph, King of Bavaria as a way to bring together the people of the Danube region together. And what better way to do it than beer and food?!

When is Gaubodenvolksfest? 2020 cancelled.

6. Wurstmarkt, Bad Durkheim

Have you had enough of beer? I sure have. Let's go to the oldest, largest (and best, in my opinion) wine festival in the whole world. That's at Wurstmarkt Weinfest in Bad Durkheim. It's held just outside the vineyards in this picturesque town and 600,000 people come a year. This past September (2017) was the 600th anniversary of the festival! So you can say it's been around for quite a while. While I loved trying all the delicious wines (150 varieties), the food was some of the best I've ever had at a fair. Truly, if you haven't been to Wurstmarkt this is a festival to put on your list.

When is Wurstmarkt? It's held every year on the second and third weekend in September (2020 it will start on September 12).

Those are my favorite festival in Germany. I haven't been to them all but I hope to go to as many as possible. Do you have a favorite festival? Let me know in the comments below!

Check out my guide to the best places for Fall in Europe right here.
Advance voting has been open across the country for a week now, and has been eagerly embraced by voters in this years general election.

More than 300,000 advance votes have already been cast, almost surpassing the total advance votes of the 2011 election.

For those in Tauranga and the Western Bay wanting to cast their vote early, they can do so at any of the advance voting places dotted around their communities.

If youre not enrolled yet, you can do so at any of these locations before Saturday September 23.

Check out the list below to find out where you can cast an early vote.

Bethlehem

Bethlehem Town Centre, 19 Bethlehem Road

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Sat 16 Sep 10am - 6pm

Sun 17 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 10am - 6pm

Thu 21 Sep 10am - 7pm

Fri 22 Sep 10am - 6pm

Greerton*

Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Road

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Fri 15 Sep 12pm - 5:30pm

Sat 16 Sep 10am - 4pm

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 12pm - 5:30pm

Thu 21 Sep 12pm - 7pm

Fri 22 Sep 12pm - 5:30pm

Hairini

Baden Powell Centre, Ila Park, 46 Harrisfield Drive

Date/Time

Wed 20 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 21 Sep 9am - 7pm

Fri 22 Sep 9am - 5pm

Katikati*

Katikati War Memorial Lounge, 29-31 Main Road

Date/Time

Wed 13 Sep - Fri 15 Sep 10am - 4pm

Sat 16 Sep 10am - 2pm

Sun 17 Sep 10am - 2pm

Mon 18 Sep - Tue 19 Sep 10am - 4pm

Wed 20 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 9am - 5pm

Mount Maunganui

Arataki Community Centre, Zambuk Way (off Grenada Street)

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Wed 13 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 14 Sep - Fri 15 Sep 9am - 7pm

Sat 16 Sep 9am - 5pm

Sun 17 Sep 9am - 4pm

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 21 Sep 9am - 7pm

Fri 22 Sep 9am - 6pm

Mount Maunganui*

Senior Citizens Hall, 345 Maunganui Road

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Sat 16 Sep 12pm - 5:30pm

Sun 17 Sep 12:30pm - 5pm

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 12pm - 5:30pm

Thu 21 Sep 12pm - 6:30pm

Fri 22 Sep 11am - 5:30pm

Omokoroa

Omokoroa Settlers Hall, 334 Omokoroa Road

Date/Time

Wed 20 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 9am - 5pm

Papamoa Beach

Papamoa Community Centre, 15 Gravatt Road

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Wed 13 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 14 Sep 9am - 6pm

Fri 15 Sep - Sat 16 Sep 9am - 5pm

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 21 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 9am - 6pm

Papamoa Beach

Papamoa Plaza, Shop 60, 7 Gravatt Road

Date/Time

Sat 16 Sep 9am - 6pm

Sun 17 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 9am - 6pm

Poike

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, 70 Windemere Drive

Date/Time

Mon 18 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 9am - 3pm

Tauranga

Electorate Headquarters, 97 Grey Street

Date/Time

Mon 11 Sep - Sat 16 Sep 10am - 4pm

Sun 17 Sep - Thu 21 Sep 10am - 4pm

Fri 22 Sep 9am - 2pm

Tauranga

Former Frank Casey building, 89 Grey Street

Date/Time

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 9am - 5pm

Thu 21 Sep - Fri 22 Sep 10am - 6pm

Te Puke

Te Puke War Memorial Hall, 130 Jellicoe Street

Date/Time

Mon 18 Sep - Wed 20 Sep 9am - 4pm

Thu 21 Sep 9am - 5pm

Fri 22 Sep 9am - 4pm

*means the venue has partial accessibility
Fuel terminals in Mount Maunganui are helping to supply Auckland Airport after a rupture was discovered in a crucial pipeline.

A leak was discovered in a section of the pipeline which runs between the Marsden Point refinery and the storage depot at Wiri, South Auckland, with work currently underway to repair it.

The pipeline is the chief source of jet fuel for Auckland Airport.

Refining NZ chief executive Sjoerd Post says a 30-strong team has been working on a 24-hour basis over the last four days, and most of the jet fuel has now been recovered from the leak site.

Much of the jet fuel had leaked into a culvert on the property. Quick action by our team, working alongside environmental staff from the Northland Regional Council, meant we were able to contain the leak and prevent it from moving into waterways.

Sjoerd confirms excavating around the leak revealed the extent of the damage to the pipeline.

Inspection has shown clear signs of the pipe being dented and the protective coating removed by heavy equipment. The pipe is located in boggy terrain and it is certain that the acidic nature of the soil will have contributed to the corrosion and subsequent tear in the pipe.

Whats not clear is when this section of the pipe may have been damaged. While further analysis of the metal is to be carried out, we are concluding that this incident is a one-off.

He says all going to plan, Refining NZ expects to deliver jet fuel into Wiri between midday Sunday September 24 and midday Tuesday September 26.

The continued patience of our local community, as we carry out our recovery and repair operation, is very much appreciated.

Energy and Resources Minister Judith Collins says there are fuel stocks on hand in Auckland and additional stocks of petrol and diesel are being trucked in directly from the refinery, and from the terminal in Mount Maunganui.

Fuel companies are confident supply of these fuels will be maintained, and it is unlikely motorists will be inconvenienced.

The pipeline is the only source of jet fuel for Auckland Airport, so precautions have been taken to restrict the amount of fuel being used. Airlines have options to manage their operations and will be looking to minimise any inconvenience for travelers. They will keep their customers informed of any changes to flight schedules, as required.

Tauranga City Council chief financial officer Paul Davidson says the shutdown of the fuel pipeline is not impacting on flights in and out of Tauranga yet.

"Here in Tauranga we have fuel supply for at least this week. We have confirmation from Air New Zealand there is no impact on scheduled Tauranga flights, however Air New Zealand is constantly updating their flight schedule; people should check their website before travelling."
Multiple offenders have today appeared in Rotorua District Court following prosecution for stealing wood from public reserves.

The prosecutions are the result of community involvement and increased surveillance to address the theft of trees and wood from public conservation land.

Scenic reserves administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC) under the Reserves Act 1977 are to protect and preserve areas of scenic interest, beauty, natural features or landscape.It is unlawful to remove wood or plants, whether alive or dead, from a scenic reserve.

This includes windfallen trees which have an important role in forest ecology.

Michael Jerome Leo Nicholson, Jordan William Robert Hodge and Connor Joseph Rivers pled guilty to a charge of removing wood from the Patetere Scenic Reserve in Mamaku.

Rivers and Hodge also admitted providing a false name and address when questioned by a DOC Ranger.

Rivers was sentenced to 100 hours community work and two months disqualification from driving a motor vehicle. Hodge was fined $1250 on the same charges.

On the charge of removing wood from Patetere Scenic Reserve Nicholson was ordered to come up for sentence if called upon within nine months, and two months disqualification from driving a motor vehicle.

In a separate incident Steven Peters, a 42 year-old paper maker of Kawerau, was convicted and fined $1250 for removing wood from Lake Rotoma Scenic Reserve.

This reserve is an ecologically important corridor and buffer to northern Lake Rotoma

In both cases DOC Rangers seized the chainsaws used by the offenders along with the stolen wood which was loaded onto the offenders utes.

The maximum penalty for removing wood from a reserve without authority is imprisonment for up to two years and/or a fine of up to $100,000, and offenders are liable to have their saw and other gear seized.

DOC Operations manager Jeff Milham says DOC is concerned about ongoing theft of timber and ponga logs from public conservation land in the Rotorua District and is actively monitoring reserves for any sign of activity.

DOC is willing to take enforcement action against any alleged offenders and appreciates the ongoing support of local communities in achieving this.
A Police media spokesperson says that a number of sightings of gang members, believed to be of the Wellington chapter of the Black Power, were reported to Police today.

At about 3pm today Police received reports about gang members on the Strand in Whakatane acting in an intimidating way, says a Police media spokesperson.

They were all moved on and Police were set up in mobile areas to move them on.

Earlier in the day, Police also carried out various foot patrols after receiving a number of calls from concerned members in public, says Police.

A traffic offense was also reported to have occurred on Commerce St near Countdown supermarket.

A vehicle was impounded and towed.

No further details are available at this stage.
When Mark Wilson was younger his parents were told hed never walk or talk.

Born with cerebral palsy, a disorder that affects around 7000 New Zealanders, Mark has had to overcome more than most.

Hes had to endure high school bullies, and the challenges that come with not being able to write or type.

But Mark was bright and had a keen interest in the business world. He finally got a break after meeting Peter Richardson, head of business at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, at the end of Year 12 in 2013.

When I met Peter he wanted to talk to me  not my parents. Thats the first time Ive ever had that. Peter just asked me what I wanted to study and found a way to make it happen. I cant believe how easy he made it.

Now, after four and a half years of hard slog, Mark has his New Zealand Diploma in Business, and is about to graduate with a Bachelor of Management Studies from the University of Waikato, in partnership with Toi Ohomai.

Reflecting on the transition from high school to tertiary life, he admits it wasnt always easy.

The first week was terrifying. There were times during my study when I couldnt see the light at the end of tunnel, but I kept going. It helped that the people were friendly, and the disability team at Toi Ohomai really had my back.

With his newfound financial and strategic business knowledge, Mark is keeping busy helping his parents with their business, Aluminium Artistry.

Im trying to bring them up to speed with the 21st century. Its good to be able to repay them a little bit for what theyve done for me.

Mark also donates his time to Trillian Trek, a charity helping sick, underprivileged and disadvantaged children around New Zealand.

The goal from here for the tenacious 22-year-old is to find a job in his field.

Id like to get a job in finance. Im just waiting on confirmation from the university now. It will be good to finally hang the degree on the wall.

Mark wants people to know that having cerebral palsy doesnt mean you cant achieve your dreams.

Hopefully Ive shown people with cerebral palsy can accomplish just as much as anyone can. I get a kick out of surprising people. They cant believe that I can drive, or that Ive done a degree.

Its all about awareness  someone might see me and think if he can do it, I might give it a go.
Stolen guinea pigs are just the latest in a number of animal thefts at a Papamoa kindergarten.

Best Start Community Kindy Parton Rd is a childcare centre in Papamoa, which hosts animals for its students to care for.

In recent months, the kindergarten has noticed the animals disappearing and believe they are being taken.

Joint acting manager Toni Thorne says the issue is ongoing.

Over the last six months weve had various different rabbits and recently three guinea pigs, all to which we think have been taken because theres no way they can get out.

We have put chicken wire under the cage so they cant even dig out and we put up security cameras, but that hasnt made a difference.

Every time we go in to feed them in the mornings and theyve gone, the doors still closed with the brick there so its just really odd that theyve just disappeared.

Someones definitely been coming in and taking them.

She says the disappearances have been heart breaking for students.

Its really sad, our kids get so gutted when theyre not there in the mornings.

Its a really cool settling process when the children first come in and theyre like lets go see the animals.

They form these special bonds and relationships with the animals in the centre and then when they come in in the morning to feed them, theyre gone.

It is pretty heart wrenching for the whole center, theyre part of our whanau.

She says the centre is now unsure whether they will replace the animals.

Weve had about five or six rabbits been taken, and now three guinea pigs  so I dont know. What do we do?

We have chickens as well but the chickens havent been touched  I guess they make too much noise to be taken.

Toni says they have attempted to reach out to the Papamoa community on social media about the incident.

A little bit of feedback came back just saying that rabbits from around the community had been taken as well.

I guess there is a serial rabbit-taker or something, I dont know.

She says the center is now looking at reporting the incidents.

We would like to take it further, especially since now this seems to be a continuous thing that it is happening, just to let Police know this is happening in the community.
More than ten years after the Malaya corruption scandal broke out in Marbella, the last fugitive Carlos Fernandez has been located and arrested in Argentina.

The former councillor was detained in the early hours of last Friday at his home in Rivadavia, a small town in the province of San Juan, near the Chilean border.

Fernandez being escorted by Argentinian police / SUR

Fernandez, who had been a Marbella councillor for the GIL group before switching to the Andalusian party PA, had married and formed a family in

Argentina.

The arrest came after Fernandezs defence lawyers had written to the Spanish courts asking them to declare that the statute of limitations for the offences he was wanted for in 2006, including embezzlement and accepting bribes, had expired. In other words, they believe that legally enough time has gone by since the initial investigation for him to return to Spain without having to go to prison.

After his arrest his defence lawyers said that he had turned himself in, although the Argentinian Federal Police denied this, saying that they had had Fernandez under surveillance for a week up to his arrest.

This discrepancy appears to have been explained by the version given by Fernandezs brother and lawyer in an interview this week with SUR. He said that the arrest was all part of a strategy to end his eleven years on the run.

According to Antonio Fernandez, the Argentinian police had been tipped off to force the arrest which now means that the Spanish courts have to provide information as to whether his brother can still be prosecuted after all this time.

Based on the information provided by the Spanish authorities, the Argentinian judge in charge of the case now has a month to respond to Spains calls for extradition. Meanwhile Fernandez is being held in Chimbas prison in the province of San Juan.

Camino de Santiago

Carlos Fernandez had been on the run since June 2006, when he escaped a second roundup of suspects in the massive local corruption scandal known as Malaya.

The first raids in March that year had seen the arrests of the Malaga ringleader Juan Antonio Roca, the then mayor, Marisol Yague, and deputy mayor, Isabel Garcia Marcos, among others.

Fernandez was suspected of distributing cash handouts, received by Roca in the form of bribes from business owners, along with Yague and Garcia Marcos. Both were found guilty and sentenced to three and a half years in prison. It can be assumed that Fernandez would have faced a similar penalty.

Fernandez had married and formed a family with a journalist and former model in Argentina

However he was never arrested. When police found him not at home, he told them he was walking on the Camino de Santiago. He was instructed to turn himself in to the nearest police station, but never did.

Apart from being wanted in the Malaya investigation, Fernandez had already been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for embezzlement in a previous case and he featured as a suspect in a third investigation apart from Malaya.

The apparent inability of the authorities to track him down has led to rumours that he was allowed to escape by the Spanish authorities in exchange for becoming a police informant. Judges, prosecutors and police officers involved in the case have always denied this.

He was suspected of distributing cash handouts in Marbella in the form of bribes to business owners

Some time after his arrival inSan Juan, Fernandez met the Argentinian former model and journalist Carla Coppari, whom he married. His wife has said that Fernandezs mother flew to Argentina with his birth certificate so they could be married legally. The couple have two children, who have Fernandez as their surname.

His wife also said that he had not undergone plastic surgery to change his appearance as reports in the Argentinian press initially stated.

For some years Fernandez ran a business coaching consultancy in which his surname appeared as Hernandez.

The former councillor was detained in the early hours of Friday at his home in a small town in the province of San Juan, near the Chilean border.

His defence said that Fernandez, who had formed a family in Argentina and undergone several operations to change his appearance, had given himself up voluntarily to the police.

The arrest came after his defence wrote to the courts asking them to declare that the statute of limitations for the offences he was wanted for in 2006, including embezzlement and accepting bribes, had expired, allowing him to return to Spain without having to go to prison.

However the Argentinian police had had Fernandez under surveillance for a week up to his arrest.

A judge now has a month to respond to Spain's calls for extradition. Meanwhile Fernandez is being held in Chimbas prison.
WASHINGTON  Two high-ranking Navy commanders, whose oversight included the ship in which a Decatur-area sailor killed at sea was based, were fired Monday in the latest response to a series deadly accidents.

Rear Adm. Charles Williams, commander of the warships on patrol in the Asia-Pacific region, and Capt. Jeffrey Bennett, commander of guided missile destroyers in the region, were dismissed due to a loss of confidence in their ability to command after collisions with civilian ships in the western Pacific killed 17 sailors, including Logan Palmer, of Harristown.

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon he's confident in how the Navy was examining the mishaps that have shaken the military and political leadership. In all, four U.S. warships had collisions or ran aground in the Pacific this year.

The Navy has a tradition of holding officers accountable, and theyll do what they think is necessary, he said.

Palmer, 23, a 2012 graduate of Sangamon Valley High School, was aboard the USS John S. McCain when it collided with the Alnic MC, a Liberian-flagged oil and chemical tanker nearly three times its size, on Aug. 21. The crash ripped a gash in the McCain's hull, flooding crew berths and machinery and communications rooms.

Palmer joined the Navy in April 2016 and was an interior communications electrician third class and posthumously promoted to second class. His funeral was Sept. 11 at Life Foursquare Church in Decatur, and he was buried in Harristown Cemetery with full military honors.

Nine other sailors were killed in the accident, which occurred at the entrance to the Strait of Malacca, one of the worlds busiest shipping lanes, near Singapore. The cause is under investigation.

Two months earlier, on June 17, the guided-missile destroyer Fitzgerald was rammed by a much larger Philippine-flagged container ship, the ACX Crystal, about 50 nautical miles from the U.S. Navy base in Yokosuka, Japan.

Seven sailors were killed in that accident. The commander and executive officer of the Fitzgerald were later relieved of command.

A guided-missile cruiser, Lake Champlain, collided with a South Korean fishing vessel on May 9 off the Korean Peninsula. Another guided-missile cruiser, Antietam, ran aground Jan. 31 and gushed oil into Tokyo Bay.

Adm. John Richardson, the top U.S. Navy officer, last month ordered that ships around the world stop and retrain, relearn and focus on proper procedures and safety precautions to prevent more collisions or mishaps. The "operational pause" sought answers to why crews on warships carrying radars and other high-tech sensors failed to avoid collisions while underway.

An initial investigation into the Fitzgerald collision found that poor seamanship and flaws in keeping watch contributed to the collision.

"The thing that we try to emphasize with our folks is that you've got to be hcareful of complacency," said Gen. Joseph Votel, the top U.S. commander for the Middle East, after the review was ordered. "Complacency kills out there."

Mattis on Monday said military officials also need to look at "what is the environment, what is the culture, what have we done with training over this time, have we reduced hours, have we increased hours, have some of these been the result of maintenance failure? You've got to look very, very broadly and look for data points and we're doing that."

They also are examining whether strict budget constraints have contributed to a recent rash of deadly training accidents and crashes across the armed forces, he said. They have called on Congress to end the practice of providing defense budgets by way of stopgap spending measures, which have been used over the past eight years. The short-term bills lock in the Pentagon's budget in at the previous year's level, forcing the services to move money from their weapons modernization and training accounts to pay for current missions.

Asked if military commanders are afraid to admit it if their troops are unprepared, Mattis said no.

While acknowledging that "we're almost hardwired to say 'can do,'" Mattis said that in peacetime operations commanders are required to ensure their troops are ready, and they will often ask for more training time when needed.

"We reward people for raising their hand and saying 'no more,'" he said. "We've had people actually stop training where they thought their troops needed to rehearse before they went forward with it. That's not that unusual. So I am not concerned right now that we're rewarding the wrong behavior."

He added, however, that military leaders also must make sure they're not always saying they can do more with less.

Mattis' comments came a day before Navy leaders are set to testify to Congress on the two ship collisions, and what they've done to remedy any problems in the force. Among those testifying in front of the Senate Armed Services Committee is Navy Secretary

"We've got to find out why we suddenly have had this spate of incidents," said Mattis. "Right now, as I look at each of the services, they're doing the right things."

The Associated Press and Herald & Review contributed to this report.
SYRACUSE, NY - The cause of a a fire at 943 Kirkpatrick St. on Syracuse's North side Sunday evening remains under investigation, fire investigators said Sunday night.

One adult male was in the residence at the time the fire broke out, but was able to safely escape with no injuries, said Syracuse Fire Department Investigator Brian Sheerin.

A family of four lived in the home and has been displaced by the fire. The Red Cross is assisting them.

Sheerin said the home had working smoke detectors.

The fire was contained to the back of the house, Sheerin said, and was contained within 15 to 20 minutes.
VERNON, N.Y. -- A Siena College student from Oneida County was busted with child pornography this summer, authorities said.

Kyle Roache, of Vernon, was charged earlier this month in federal court with possessing and transporting child porn.

Roache, who is 20 years old, could face as many years in prison if he is convicted of the charge.

Special Agent David Frehulfer of the FBI detailed the investigation in an affadavit:

According to Frehulfer, agents tracked down Roache after receiving tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a Dropbox account thought to be used for trading child porn. Dropbox is a cloud computing service.

Frehulfer confirmed the Dropbox account contained numerous photos and videos depicting pre-pubescent children engaging in sex acts.

Agents traced the IP addresses associated with the account to Roache's home in Vernon and his residence in Loudonville as a Siena College student. Siena College authorities assisted agents in their investigation.

After agents executed search warrants on Roache's two residences, he admitted to viewing the images, according to Frehulfer's affadavit.

Roache told investigators he used anonymous messaging apps and forums Kik and Omegle to receive child porn, according to the affidavit. He used Dropbox to view and download the files, using an email address with a false name, the court papers said.

Roache appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Therese Wiley Dancks on Sept. 8 with his lawyer Lisa Peebles.

Wiley Dancks agreed to release Roache on home incarceration with an electronic monitoring device.

Roache will not be permitted to leave his home except for religious services, medical appointments and court appearances. Under the terms of his release, Roache cannot have contact with minors, or have access to computers or internet.

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers federal courts, government and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992
SOLVAY, NY - A state Supreme Court judge has granted the village of Solvay's request for an injunction that prevents Rana Zahran from opening a business at 2400 Milton Ave. without the necessary permits and approvals from the village.

Zahran wants to open Steven's Food Market Inc. in the former Solvay Diner at that location. In court papers, the village said that Zahran did not secure the proper village approvals needed to open the proposed grocery/convenience store. That includes securing site plan approval and a building permit.

The village also said Zahran continued making renovations to the interior even after officials issued a stop work order and then made plans to open.

Dirk Oudemool, Zahran's lawyer, said he plans to appeal the decision.

Both he and his client, Zahran, have said they believe Zahran is being discriminated against by officials because she is from Jerusalem.

In the court decision, Judge Deborah Karalunas said that the village didn't follow municipal law when it issued the stop work order to Zahran, so it is invalid. However, the code enforcement's determination that Zahran needed a permit stands as it was not appealed before the deadline, the decision said.

Oudemool said that's because Zahran switched lawyers and Oudemool or Zahran didn't get a copy of the decision in time to appeal.

Village officials have said they can't comment because it's a legal matter.

Zahran declined comment at this time.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- A civic planning organization is proposing a trail network connecting New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

The Regional Plan Association has released a report proposing connecting 1,650 miles of biking, hiking and walking trails in the three states.

The plan describes three routes extending from New York City using existing trails that would need to be connected.

One route would connect Manhattan to the 750-mile cross-state Empire State Trail proposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo early this year. The Empire State Trail would connect existing trails into one network from Buffalo to Albany and northward to Canada.

A proposed day trip by bicycle would go from Grand Central Terminal to the Mohonk nature preserve in Ulster County.

The report doesn't estimate the cost of completing its proposals.
ST. LOUIS (AP) -- Hundreds of police officers in riot gear mobilized in downtown St. Louis after another day of peaceful protests over an ex-police officer's acquittal in the death of a black man, making dozens of arrests amid reports of property damage and vandalism in the streets.

Authorities made the arrests shortly before midnight, saying people had ignored orders to disperse after the peaceful protests.

A judge ruled Friday that Jason Stockley, a 36-year-old who left the department and moved to Houston three years ago, was not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith. The ruling set off raucous protests throughout the weekend. Another peaceful demonstration was expected later Monday.

On Sunday, hundreds of people marched through downtown streets, the posh Central West End, and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City. Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St. Louis County. The protest began at the police headquarters downtown.

Following the same pattern of the previous days, well over 1,000 people marched peacefully for several hours. By nightfall, most had gone home. The 100 or so demonstrators who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched toward the core of downtown. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels, and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers.

One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital. His condition wasn't known.

Soon afterward, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, and police scoured the downtown area deep into the night, making arrests. Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a city boulevard chanting "whose street, our street," a common refrain used by the protesters, after successfully clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

Protest organizers said they were frustrated that a few people who have caused trouble at night could make it harder to spread their nonviolent message.

State Rep. Bruce Franks, a Democrat who has participated in the peaceful protests, said those who are violent "are not protesters," but a group separate from those marching in organized demonstrations.

Others, though, said they understood why some act out. Protest organizer Anthony Bell said that while he believes change is made through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression has caused some to turn violent.

"I do not say the demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best," Bell said.

The recent St. Louis protests have followed a pattern borne of months of angry and sometimes violent protests after the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

More than 50 people were arrested over the weekend, all late at night. It was after nightfall that people shattered a window at the home of Mayor Lynda Krewson on Friday, smashed about two dozen windows and threw trash cans and rocks at police in University City on Saturday, and knocked out windows downtown on Sunday.

Many protesters believe police provoked demonstrators by showing up in riot gear and armored vehicles; police said they had no choice but to protect themselves once protesters started throwing things at them.

Democratic Rep. Michael Butler said police should target the agitators and allow others to continue demonstrating. He protested Friday, and after that said police have been doing a poor job of identifying bad actors in the crowds.

"There's not been any learning from Ferguson," Butler said.

Stockley shot Smith after Smith fled from Stockley and his partner on a high-speed chase as they tried to arrest him for a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified he felt endangered because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smith's car after the shooting. The officer's DNA was on the weapon but Smith's wasn't. Dashcam video from Stockley's cruiser recorded him saying he was "going to kill this (expletive)." Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockley's lawyer dismissed the comment as "human emotions" during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didn't prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley murdered Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.
mustang 99 BHPian

Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: new delhi Posts: 36 Thanked: 122 Times

Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety and its actual implementation One of the problems India faces in its developing economy is that of increased road traffic. As the number of vehicles increase , with a crumbling infrastructure , poor implementation of traffic rules , ignorant drivers and a mix of old and new vehicles there is a horrendous increase in the number of accidents and resultant injury and death.



I would dare to add that rampant corruption in government departments including the transport department and the traffic police is making the matters worse. This leads any policy implementation extremely difficult.



In a growing economy, a constant flow of men and material is required to keep up the pace of the economy. Unfortunately the kind of infrastructure growth required is still not seen in India.



I quote certain facts from ROAD ACCIDENTS IN INDIA - 2015

a report from Government of India Ministry of Road Transport and Highways , Transport Research Wing.



1. India is a signatory to Brasilia Declaration and is committed to reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities by 50 per cent by 2020.



2. However, with one of the highest motorisation growth rate in the world accompanied by rapid expansion in road network and urbanisation over the years, our country is faced with serious impacts on road safety levels.



3. The total number of road accidents increased by 2.5 per cent from 4,89,400 in 2014 to 5,01,423 in 2015. The total number of persons killed in road accidents increased by 4.6 per cent from 1,39,671 in 2014 to 1,46,133 in 2015.



4. Road accident injuries have also increased by 1.4 per cent from 4,93,474 in 2014 to 5,00,279 in 2015. The severity of road accidents, measured in terms of number of persons killed per 100 accidents has increased from 28.5 in 2014 to 29.1 in 2015.



5. The analysis of road accident data 2015 reveals that about 1,374 accidents and 400 deaths take place every day on Indian roads which further translates into 57 accidents and loss of 17 lives on an average every hour in our country.



6. About 54.1 per cent of all persons killed in road accidents are in the 15 - 34 years age group during the year 2015.



7. In 2015, Mumbai had the highest number of road accidents (23,468) while Delhi had the highest number of deaths (1622) due to road accidents.



8. Drivers fault has been revealed as the single most responsible factor for road accidents, killings and injuries on all roads in the country over a long period of time. Drivers fault accounted for 77.1 per cent of total road accidents during 2015 as against 78.8 per cent during 2014. Within the category of drivers fault, road accidents caused and persons killed due to exceeding lawful speed/over speeding by drivers accounted for a share of 62.2 per cent (2,40,463 out of 3,86,481 accidents) and 61.0 per cent (64,633 out of 1,06,021 deaths) respectively. However taking into account the total road accidents and total road accident killings, the share of over speeding comes to 47.9 per cent (2,40,463 out of 5,01,423 accidents ) and 44.2 per cent (64,633 out of 1,46,133 deaths) respectively.



9. Accidents and deaths caused due to Intake of alcohol/drugs within the category of drivers fault accounted for 4.2 per cent (16,298 out of 3,86,481 accidents) and 6.4 per cent (6,755 out of 1,06,021 deaths) respectively. However, taking into account the total road accidents and total road accident killings, the share of intake of alcohol/drugs comes to 3.3 per cent (16,298 out of 5,01,423 accidents ) and 4.6 per cent (6,755 out of 1,46,133 deaths) respectively.



10. During the year 2015, overloaded vehicles caused 77,116 accidents and 25,199 road accidental deaths. It constituted a share of 15.4 per cent and 17.2 per cent respectively in total road accidents and fatalities in the country.



11. Two Wheelers accounted for a highest share in total road accidents and next to it was the share of the group of Cars, Jeeps &Taxis in 2015 as reported by the States/UTs. Share of two wheelers in total road accidents has increased continuously from 26.3 per cent in 2013 to 27.3 per cent in 2014 and 28.8 per cent in 2015. Next to two wheelers, the share of cars, jeeps and taxis has also gone up slightly from 22.2 per cent in 2013 to 22.7 per cent in 2014 and 23.6 per cent in 2015.



11.Rural areas are more prone to road accidents, accounting for 53.8 per cent of total road accidents during 2015. The percentage of road accident fatalities (61.0 per cent) and injuries (59.1 per cent) were also more in rural areas as compared to the urban areas in the country.



12. Generally speaking, traffic junctions are accident prone areas. About 49 per cent of total accidents took place on the junctions itself during the calendar year 2015 as against 57 per cent reported during 2014.



As we can all make out the scenario is pretty grim but several initiative by the Government and the Judiciary are trying to change the scenario.



Supreme Court in April 2014 set up a three-member panel to monitor implementation of road safety measures, including emergency medical help to accident victims.

The panel headed by Justice KS Radhakrishnan(Ret).

Members Mr S Sundar former secretary, ministry of surface transport, Dr Nishi Mittal former Head of Department of Traffic Engineering and Safety.



The committee gave a wide range of recommendations which is being implemented pan India.

The recommendations affect each of us going on to the road.



I am mentioning a few important points from the report:





1. Ban on sale of alcohol on highways, both National and State highways, to curb the menace of road accident.



2. Pointing out deficiencies in enforcement of the motor vehicles by the state governments, the panel directed the states to strengthen enforcement of law against drunken driving, over speeding and other offences.



3. It suggested for audit of road safety to be conducted by states to ensure that safety standards are incorporated in the design, construction and maintenance of roads.



4. It directed state governments to implement laws on helmet strictly as failure to implement the helmet laws strictly has resulted in high fatality of two-wheeler and pillion riders.



5. It raised concern about lax procedure for issuing driving licenses.



6. It recommended that state governments must take steps to remove hoardings and objects that obstruct driving or distract drivers.



7. Highlighting lack of awareness among people on road safety rules, the panel recommended that state governments must frame a permanent and scientific policy on educating people in this regard.



8. The panel also noted that the states do not have adequate number of trauma centres and the ambulances do not have required medical facilities.



Although a welcome step , what remains to be seen is the implementation part.

The part of guideline which is directly affecting all of us is the stringent punishment for violations of traffic rules.



Directions of the supreme court committee on road safety on 18th August, 2015 says that the driving licences should be suspended for a period of not less than three months under Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 read with Rule 21 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989,



a. In cases of driving at speed exceeding the specified limit.



b. Red light jumping.



c. Carrying overload in good carriages.



d. Carrying persons in good carriages.



e. Driving under the influence of liquor/drugs.



f. Using mobile phone while driving.



Now any judgement error on our part even in the first instance is not a question of few hundred rupees , its a matter of loosing your driving licence for at least 3 months and on repeat incidence the licence can be permanently revoked.



I can speak on behalf of all team bhp members that everyone of us with our utmost sincerity would like to follow every traffic rule in word and spirit.

Inspite of all the best intentions and due care there will be inevitable violations , either because of ignorance (knowing the exact speed limit on a particular road) or circumstances like poor visibility , lack of signs, badly engineered intersections , ridiculously low speed limits set decades back etc.



All of these can bring us in situations where there can be accusations of traffic rule violations which may or may not have been committed by the driver.

Extremely harsh laws with a dishonest implementation is a lethal mix for corruption.

Corruption has always been rampant in India and growing up here one learns quickly how to get away with certain things by paying bribes.

The government machinery just seem to get into life at the slightest possibility of the smallest bribe.

In my view like taxation laws the traffic laws need to be simplified , actual ground reality be taken into consideration and technology be applied to root out corruption.

I would like members to share their practical experiences on these new guidelines.
Guyanas National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) in Mon Repos recently signed an agreement with Georgetown-based Samaroo Investment to install geotextile tubes to form groynes  barriers built out into the sea from a beach to check erosion and drifting  along the foreshore at Reliance on the Essequibo coast to boost sea defence.The $13.8-million contract was signed by NAREI CEO Oudho Homenauth and Doodnauth Samaroo, managing director of the contracting company, according to a press release from Guyanas ministry of agriculture.

Guyana's National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) in Mon Repos recently signed an agreement with Georgetown-based Samaroo Investment to install geotextile tubes to form groynes  barriers built out into the sea from a beach to check erosion and drifting  along the foreshore at Reliance on the Essequibo coast to boost sea defence.#

Geotextile tubes, manufactured from geosynthetic materials to achieve the desired formation, are used as a cost-effective alternative for coastal and marine projects. These tubes are installed by filling these with sand or suitable dredged material.NAERI earlier used geotextile tube groynes at Devonshire castle coast which resulted in increased elevation and natural regeneration. (DS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Writing about the things that make you worried and anxious may reduce the worry and allow you to perform better in tasks. The study confirms the 1980s study regarding the benefits of journaling.

The Problem With Worrying

If you've ever found yourself constantly worried and overthinking, you're probably not alone. The problem with worrying is that it often involves events which haven't happened yet and that may not even happen at all. Unfortunately, this simple, uncontrollable act could also lead to anxiety-related disorders.

A new study published in the journal Psychophysiology details how one simple task can help individuals ease their minds and perform better in tasks. Researchers from Michigan State University (MSU) have found neural evidence to support the benefits of writing down the things that elicit feelings of worry and anxiety.

Expressive Writing And Performance

Researchers have found evidence showing journaling or expressive writing as an effective means of reducing worries. In order to do this, researchers gathered chronically-worried college students and engaged them in a computer-based "flanker task" which could measure accuracy and reaction times.

Before doing the task, half of the participants were tasked to write down their activities from the day before, while the other half was given eight minutes to write down their deepest thoughts and feelings regarding the task at hand.

Using electroencephalography (EEG), researchers found that while the two groups performed at the same level of speed and accuracy, the group that was given time to jot down their thoughts and worries were able to complete the task more efficiently. This means that they completed the task using fewer brain resources. Essentially, those who engaged in expressive writing were able to perform just as accurately as the control group, but without making the brain work too hard for the same task.

The Car Analogy And Psychoneuroimmunology

Researcher Jason Moser described the effects of releasing worries on productivity and brain resource using a car analogy, saying "Here, worried college students who wrote about their worries were able to offload these worries and run more like a brand new Prius whereas the worried students who didn't offload their worries ran more like a '74 Impala - guzzling more brain gas to achieve the same outcomes on the task."

These results provide the first neural evidence of a popular research made by James Pennebaker in 1986 where he described the healing impacts of journal writing on emotional health and the immune system. In his research, he tasked one group with writing about mundane topics such as the weather, and another to write about the worst events of their lives. He followed the groups for six months and found that the expressive writers went to the doctor fewer times compared to the control group. Because of his research, the field of psychoneuroimmunology was born.

According to researchers, their evidence show that expressive writing can help, not just individuals with traumatic experiences to cope, but also constant worriers to be prepared for potentially stressful events.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Asking a federal judge in the United States, Waymo is seeking to delay the trial against Uber scheduled in October.

Alphabet's self-driving car unit says that it recently acquired new evidence critical to the lawsuit, and as such, it needs more time to process the additional info.

Waymo Wants To Postpone The Trial Against Uber

On Sept. 13, a federal court in California ordered Uber to hand over a 2016 "due diligence" report to Waymo, granting the Alphabet-owned division a huge win in the case.

Waymo has been after the report in question for months. Former Uber and Waymo engineer Anthony Levandowski allegedly stole more than 14,000 files before he left Waymo and started the self-driving truck company that is Otto, which was almost immediately acquired by Uber. Waymo believed that by obtaining the report, it would determine what Uber knows and when it did so.

Reuters reported that Uber has declared that it hasn't used the self-driving trade secrets of Waymo, but the company did admit that Levandowski downloaded the aforementioned confidential files. However, it argued that it was solely done so that he could secure his bonus payment from Alphabet.

Now a San Francisco federal court is scheduled to assemble a jury on Oct. 10, but according to Recode, Alphabet says it would be "unfairly prejudiced if the trial proceeds as initially scheduled on Oct. 10 without additional time to pursue this mountain of new evidence." In other words, Alphabet requires more time to complete the investigation the new pieces of evidence called for.

On that note, Waymo has accused Uber and Stroz Friedberg, the company that prepared the report, "produced or made available a small portion of the material required." At that, the lawyers representing Waymo have yet to see the ins and outs involved in the preparation of the said report.

Waymo vs Uber: Beyond The Lawsuit

The two are among the forerunners in the future of self-driving cars, one of which includes Lyft, the number 2 ride-hailing company behind Uber.

However, between the current top 2 firms, the tables may turn soon, as Alphabet is reportedly in talks with Lyft for a $1 billion investment, which could give Lyft the push it needs to topple Uber from the top.

That, of course, piles on the many troubles Uber and its new CEO Dara Khosrowshahi are facing, including the so-called "Hell" software that the company used to spy on Lyft drivers.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Demanding that the government allow them to collect and sell wood from the nearby forest, some 500 Haghartzin resident closed the Ijevan-Yerevan highway for two and a half hours today before dispersing.

Residents also demanded that the government decrease the state fee to sell wood.

They told reporters that even though the government had decreased the fee from 10,800 AMD to 5,400 two days ago, the decision hadnt been implemented and that they have been banned from transferring wood from the forest.

Scuffles broke out between protesters and police who arrived on the scene led by Samvel Hovhannisyan, Armenias Deputy Chief of Police.

Hovhannisyan pleaded with protesters to leave on their own accord, noting that today was a religious holiday (Feast of the Holy Cross) and that tomorrow was a day when people visited the graves of their loved ones.

People will be visiting gravesites. Let them pass. I promise that on Tuesday, you can meet with anyone you wish, Hovhannisyan told the crowd.

After lengthy negotiations, the protesters dispersed.
Medical researchers have found artificial intelligence as an unlikely but very much welcome ally in the development of Alzheimer's disease detection techniques.

AI may have its dangerous applications as a weapon, but right now, it is the weapon that the medical field needs to help fight back against the dreaded Alzheimer's disease.

AI For Alzheimer's Disease Detection

Researchers have long been trying to find the best way for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease. While there is no cure yet for the disease, being able to detect it as early as possible allows its victims to take treatment to slow down its effects, giving them time before they lose their memory and cognitive functions.

While some researchers have focused on developing tests to look for traces of Alzheimer's disease and some currently trying to create detections devices, a team from the University of Bari in Italy has turned its attention to harnessing the power of artificial intelligence.

The researchers have created an algorithm that is capable of detecting tiny changes in brain structures caused by Alzheimer's disease as far back as 10 years before its victims starts suffering from the symptoms.

The team from the University of Bari trained their AI by feeding it 67 MRI scans, 38 of which were from patients suffering from the disease and 29 MRI scans of people that do not have it. The scans were further divided into smaller regions, further feeding the AI with more information.

Upon training the algorithm, it was put to the test by having it look at the MRI scans of 148 patients, 52 of which were healthy, 48 of which suffered from Alzheimer's disease, and another 48 of which were experiencing mild cognitive impairment and eventually developed Alzheimer's disease.

The AI correctly diagnosed Alzheimer's disease 86 percent of the time and was able to detect mild cognitive impairment 84 percent of time. The algorithm is far from perfect, but with added training from more MRI scans, it will likely develop into a valuable tool for early Alzheimer's disease detection. In fact, it can also even be used to help with the early diagnosis of other neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's disease.

Applications Of Artificial Intelligence

The applications of artificial intelligence are endless, as researchers and scientists have only started to understand the technology's potential. Current achievements of AI include beating the world's best DOTA 2 players, purchasing complete shopping lists, and even detecting the sexual orientation of a person.

However, with the wonders of AI also come its dangers. According to Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, AI will likely be the cause for World War 3, as the most powerful countries look to establish their dominance with AI superiority.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The founder of a group dedicated to social justice through the arts, in Baton Rouge on Friday for a talk at LSU, took time to offer a musical tribute to Alton Sterling at the Triple S Mart.

Vijay Gupta, a violinist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, is the founder and artistic director of Street Symphony, an organization that serves to foster a dialogue which tells the unheard stories of the most marginalized communities in Los Angeles through the power of musical expression, according to the group's website.

Not seeing the video below? Click here.

---

"I wanted to make a pilgrimage to this place to offer some music in the memory of Alton Sterling," Gupta says before playing in front of a mural of Sterling at the store.

Sterling, a 37-year-old black man, was shot during a struggle with two white Baton Rouge police officers outside the North Foster Drive convenience store in the early morning hours of July 5, 2016.
The LSU AgCenter has finalized its agreement with GB Sciences Louisiana LLC to operate the center's medical marijuana business.

GB Sciences Louisiana is a subsidiary of GB Sciences, a Las Vegas cannabis company focused on biopharmaceutical development. The parent company has filed patent applications for using cannabis for chronic pain and heart therapies as well as chronic arthritis, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease and asthma.

"It is extremely important that we can provide patients with safe and consistent options to help improve their quality of life," said Bill Richardson, LSU vice president for agriculture.

In Louisiana, only the LSU AgCenter and Southern University's Ag Center hold licenses to produce medical marijuana. The medication must be in an oil; an oral form, such as pills, sprays or chewables; topical applications; transdermal patches; and suppositories.

GB Sciences expects to begin production at an off-campus facility by the middle of next year.

+3 Questions raised about company LSU will contract to grow marijuana for medical uses The loser in the bid to grow medical marijuana for LSU claims the winning companys financia

+2 Finding pot growers harder than universities thought Two years have passed since Louisiana legalized the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes 

Under the terms of the agreement, the LSU AgCenter will receive $3.4 million or 10 percent of gross revenue, whichever is greater, over five years. GB Sciences also will support LSU AgCenter research through funding for personnel, laboratory research space and equipment, plus an additional monetary contribution for research initiatives.

The LSU board met Sept. 11, ostensibly to finalize the contract with GB Sciences, but that didn't happen. Members instead discussed the second letter questioning GB Sciences' financial viability. Both letters came from CB Medical LLC, the runner-up. CB Medical officials have pointed to independent auditors' past findings of inadequate financial controls at GB Sciences and facts that raise doubts about the company's ability to continue as a going concern.

Meanwhile, the three finalists for Southern's medical marijuana business are expected to submit their best and final offers Monday. The Ag Center's review committee had recommended Lafayette-based Med Louisiana at a Sept. 11 meeting of Southern's board of supervisors. But some board members questioned the guaranteed payments to the Ag Center, less than $2 million over five years; the lack of African Americans among the company's owners; and the processing facility's proposed location in Port Barre.

The other finalists are Advanced Biomedics of Lafayette, which guaranteed $6 million over the five-year contract; and Southern Roots Therapeutics of Baton Rouge, which offered $3.5 million.

The board meets again Sept. 22 and plans to select the operator at that meeting.
Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission
Police say they are continuing to investigate two connected Baton Rouge homicides, while the Baton Rouge man named a person of interest in the killings was released from Parish Prison late Sunday after posting bail on two unrelated drug counts.

Baton Rouge police have said they don't have enough evidence to arrest 23-year-old Kenneth Gleason in the homicides, which a spokesman has said could possibly have been racially motivated. The slayings of the two pedestrians, one gunned down about 11 p.m. Sept. 12 and the other about the same time on Thursday, were connected through ballistics, but appear to be random attacks, said Baton Rouge Police spokesman Sgt. L'Jean McKneely.

He said Gleason was questioned for hours by detectives Saturday in the killings, which happened in the 3400 block of Florida Street and 3000 block of Alaska Street respectively, just five miles apart. Police also obtained a search warrant for Gleason's home, where they found marijuana and human growth hormones in his bedroom and bathroom, leading to the 23-year-old's arrest on possession of Schedule III and I drugs.

His bail was set at $3,500 Sunday afternoon. It was not clear Monday if Gleason had an attorney.

Can't see video below? Click here.

Though Gleason is no longer in custody, East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore III said that based on the information he has about the ongoing investigation, residents do not need to be "overly concerned."

"I believe at this point (this) is something that is in hand," Moore said Monday morning on Talk Louisiana radio program.

However, he joined Baton Rouge Police spokesman Sgt. Don Coppola in continuing to advise people to stay aware. Moore and Coppola were both reassuring that detectives and investigators are doing all they can to solve these killings.

"These guys have been working pretty much nonstop," Moore said.

In a statement released Monday night, Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome commended BRPD for its work on the investigation. "I have made available all possible city-parish resources requested by Interim Chief Jonny Dunnam to address these homicides, as well as the recent crimes we have seen in our neighborhoods over the past several weeks," she said.

Coppola put out a call for anyone with information on the homicides to call Crime Stoppers anonymously or reach out to police directly, "no matter how small you think it is."

"The investigators are diligently working.  We, of course, rely on the community as well," Coppola said Monday. "This is an ongoing investigation.  Just remain vigilant, be aware of your surroundings."

Both fatal shootings happened under similar circumstances: The gunman shot a lone pedestrian from inside a red small car and then exited the vehicle and "shot them to death," according to an internal Baton Rouge police bulletin disseminated Friday to Louisiana law enforcement. Both victims were black men with no known prior relationship to Gleason, who is white.

While McKneely said Sunday the shootings could "possibly be racially motivated," Baton Rouge interim Police Chief Jonny Dunnam told the Associated Press on Monday that investigators still dont know for sure what the possible motive is.

The first of the two shootings killed Bruce Cofield, 59, who was apparently homeless and often panhandled at the intersection where he was shot on Florida Street. On Thursday night, Donald Smart, 49, was fatally shot as he was walking on Alaska Street to work his overnight shift at Louie's Cafe, just off LSU's campus.

Shell casings from the two killings matched and Gleason's car fit the description police were searching for, McKneely said. He mentioned there is other evidence but declined to expound.

Attempts Monday to reach Gleason, of 5144 Sandy Ridge Drive, went unanswered.
Share your opinion on this topic by sending a letter to the editor to tctvoice@madison.com. Include your full name, hometown and phone number. Your name and town will be published. The phone number is for verification purposes only. Please keep your letter to 250 words or less.
Brindabella Christian College has asked parents to vote no in the postal survey on same-sex marriage, warning any changes to the definition of marriage could impact on the school's freedom to teach its beliefs.

In a four-page statement released last week, principal Bruce Handley argued changes to the Marriage Act may impact on the school's ability to teach and model its views on marriage and family, writing that questions remained on protections for religious freedom.

"There simply is no certainty around what legislation may be proposed, a YES vote is basically signing a blank cheque to the Parliament to proceed with changes," he said.

"Our reservations in relation to the proposed redefinition of marriage itself and, regardless of what views may be held on that issue, the genuine and very valid concerns we hold about our ongoing ability to continue to teach and model a Christian view of marriage we are, respectfully, asking all those associated with the school community to participate and vote NO in the survey.
Just a few years ago, Gary Pertzel was a businessman managing multi-million dollar assets.

But today, simply using an ATM can be one of his most challenging daily tasks.

Kambah dementia sufferer Gary Pertzel (pictured with wife and carer Sally) navigates the scary world of banking. Credit:Karleen Minney

The 63-year-old was diagnosed with dementia in 2015 and is one of about 5000 people in the ACT living with the condition.

Gary's wife and carer Sally said small changes in businesses and public places could make life a lot easier for dementia sufferers and their carers.
Now, the 64-year-old has returned to acting in the lead role of Spare Puppet Theatre's adaptation of Shaun Tan's book The Arrival.

Ellis Pearson spent 40 years as a performer, originally based in his native South Africa where he formed one of the first multiracial theatre companies. But when he emigrated to Australia with his family, he took up a teaching post at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, where he worked for seven years.

The Arrival. Adapted from the book by Shaun Tan. Directed by Phillip Mitchell. Music by Lee Buddle. Spare Parts Puppet Theatre. The Street Theatre.All ages, especially suitable for ages five and up. September 27-30. thestreet.org.au or 62471223.

The character, he says, is "right up my street" - although Aki, the man he's playing, is considerably younger than he is, it doesn't matter on stage, since it's a silent play - "physical theatre, visual stuff" - akin to much of what he was doing earlier.

In The Arrival, he says, "A refugee who is in some danger leaves his country to go to another to try to start a life and bring his family, his wife and little daughter..

Aki doesn't have an easy time of it - he's a stranger, he's alone, he doesn't speak the language and not everybody he meets is friendly or welcoming. Will he find a place to live? Will he find a job? Will he make friends? And will he ever see his family again?

In addition to Pearson as Aki, the other actors are Alicia Osyka, Adrienne Patterson and Shirley van Sanden and the other characters are both humans and puppets. They're brought to life in a world of floating ships, alien objects and weird animals designed by Jiri Zmitko based on the illustrations in Tan's book, which was inspired by stories from his friends, historical narratives and also his father, who immigrated to Western Australia from China in the early 1960s.

And, Pearson says, also helping to tell the story in the absence of dialogue is "the wonderful soundtrack created by Lee Buddle" as well as projections on a screen.
Unprecedented changes are hitting the dairy industry in southern Australia, with a "supply chain revolution" underway that had snapped the traditional loyalty farmers had to processors.

Rabobank senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey said in a report released on Monday that the dairy industry had faced constant change since it was deregulated almost 20 years ago but recent developments had caused significant supply chain tension and sparked "transformative change".

The dairy industry is eyeballing major transformation. Credit:Ian Warden

These changes included the problems engulfing dairy cooperative Murray Goulburn  which was now being measured by potential buyers  a fall in national milk production, and "the reset in farmgate milk prices from mid-2016, to better align with global markets".

Milk production in southern Australia had fallen by 800 million litres over the past two seasons, the report said.
Iron ore prices will experience a "correction" in the final three months of 2017 and then trade below $US60 a tonne in the first half of 2018 as China reins in steel production, according to an HSBC report.

A fall below $US60 would equate to decline of about 21.6 per cent on current iron ore price levels. A tonne of iron ore delivered to the Chinese port of Qingdao was trading at $US76.56 on Wednesday night, according to Bloomberg.

HSBC analysts led by David Pleming said the iron ore price had been "resilient and has maintained its hold above the $US75 per tonne level". Credit:Louie Douvis

But Australia's major miners would still make healthy profits at $US60 a tonne because of the difference between that price and their production costs, as well as healthy prices for other commodities such as coal (metallurgical and thermal), and copper.

HSBC analysts led by David Pleming said the iron ore price had been "resilient and has maintained its hold above the $US75 per tonne level".
When former premier Steve Bracks was poised to sign off on the Commonwealth Games Village in Parkville in 2003, protesters fought bitterly to ensure it was largely low-rise housing.

They mostly won, with the majority of the 900 homes built on the site next to Royal Park kept to two or three levels, or within medium-rise apartment blocks bordering CityLink.

The tallest building was 11 levels.

But 14 years later, the developers have gone back to the government and successfully persuaded its planning advisers to recommend towers rising to 22 levels in the project's final stage.
Private contractors building the Sydney Metro Northwest have been accused of trying to slash the pay and conditions of skilled tradespeople using a controversial pay agreement like the one Carlton United Breweries used to slash worker salaries.

A union investigation has found three electricians employed on the $8.3 billion NSW government-funded project were offered a minimum base wage with UGL plus a $3360 monthly "bonus" from a second business. The workers said they were then asked to vote on a workplace agreement that would cover hundreds of electricians in three states.

The Electrical Trades Union said the company had tried to use the same legal loophole that led to the Carlton and United Breweries dispute last year, in which a handful of workers were forced to rubber-stamp a workplace agreement used to slash the wages of hundreds of other employees.

Electrical Trades Union secretary Dave McKinley said UGL through a wholly-owned subsidiary had used a similar tactic to try to pay lower wages to hundreds of electricians working on the construction of the Sydney Metro Northwest.
Both sides of the same sex marriage debate are now well into their respective campaigns.

From sky-writing to full page advertisements in newspapers to messages on social media platforms, it seems everyone is talking about this postal survey.

Even the principals of some Canberra primary schools - with the exception of public schools - have also entered the debate.

It is an issue that divides the Coalition and Labor parties, an issue that has the potential to divide the country along lines from political allegiance to religious affiliation.
COMMENT

It's been a long time coming, but Victoria is finally facing an uncomfortable fact: it is not morally superior when it comes to money and politics. Put another way, corruption doesn't stop at the border.

Belatedly, a Victorian government has recognised what the great Australian pub test has confirmed forever: political donors don't give out of the goodness of their heart. They want, often expect, and too often get, something in return for their gifts.

The Andrews government's proposed toughening of donation laws is great news. But it is, as yet, so scant on detail that a comprehensive assessment will have to wait.
Our vertical villages of tomorrow demand we get the settings right today. Sydney is increasingly a high-rise city, but in the face of modern challenges the laws governing these vertical villages are in desperate need of an update.

With population projections showing NSW will be home to to 9.9 million people by 2036, and 70 per cent of newly approved dwellings estimated to be apartments, we are continuing to grow up at rapid rates.

But while we are building up, the laws that are supposed to manage these strata communities continue to leave the people who live in apartments particularly vulnerable to changes in our modern world.

The most recent, prominent and profound of these changes is the advent of short-term letting platforms and apps, which have quickly and dramatically introduced short-term tourists into apartment blocks that previously housed owner-occupiers and long-term tenants.
Parents taking a child to school for the first time will not know it, but they are entering a battleground. The war being fought here amid the desks and books and blackboards is not physical but intellectual and professional  over the best way to teach reading. Should children sound out each letter of a word, learn to combine them, and discover reading that way? Or should they use clues from the context, pictures and hints in the shape and initial letter of the word to reach the same objective?

This war has raged in some places for decades, but an announcement yesterday from the federal Minister for Education, Simon Birmingham, may well prove a turning point. If not quite victory itself, it represents a major advance for the first method  phonics. It is a good move  but it may still not end the war.

Different children learn in different ways. Credit:Mario Borg

Under Senator Birmingham's plan, children will be assessed about halfway through year 1 for their reading and numerical ability. Many teachers will already be doing assessments of their own, but others may not, and states and school sectors differ in their approach. A standardised national assessment conducted one-to-one by teachers to gauge each pupil's level of understanding will thus provide baseline data from which to measure their progress and identify problems  not just of individual children, but also of schools, systems and regions. The need is urgent. Australia's children have been slipping down the international rankings in these basic skills since the turn of the century.

The check of children's reading level will require teachers to judge each child's phonic knowledge  that is, ability to read words based on the letters that make them up. This may seem obvious, but English spelling, which is often not phonetic, complicates matters. Some children find it easier to learn to read by recognising whole words, not by sounding out each letter. They may use hints from the context, pictures, and initial sounds of words as props in this process. Whether one process or the other is better is the basis for the reading wars which have  unaccountably we believe  become bedevilled by politics. (The teaching of number skills, by contrast, is mercifully free of such distractions.)
Malcolm Turnbull be warned: the wealth gap between young and old Australians is getting wider and it could transform our politics.

New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows young people are not accumulating wealth at the same pace as their parents and grandparents. And failed government policies are partly to blame.

Perth's rapidly expanding sprawl could lead to extreme infrastructure costs. Credit:Chris Pancewicz / Alamy Stock Photo

The evidence is stark. Today's households headed by 65-74-year-olds are almost $500,000 richer on average than households of that age 12 years ago. Households headed by 45-54-year-olds are $400,000 richer.

But this economic progress has not extended to Australia's young. Households headed by 25-34-year-olds are only $40,000 richer than households of that age 12 years ago.
Tracee Ellis Ross Credit:AP

Coco Chanel was said to have once said: "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off." Tracee Ellis Ross, wearing Chanel Haute Couture, took one look in the mirror, grabbed it put it in her purse, then grabbed the kitchen sink threw that on, strapped on a belt and said "Emmys, come at me". Busier than Aldi on a Saturday but it works.
Like many Australians, I bought a new iPhone this week. But unlike the avid tech-heads lining up for the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, I bought a new iPhone 6s with more storage space than my previous handset. The woman beside me was buying a new iPhone 7.

What she and I both knew is that you save a lot of money by buying older models, especially just after a new phone comes out because Apple drops the prices of its existing products with each new release. As a money-saving trick, it doesn't beat buying a cheap Android phone or no smartphone at all, but if you really want an iPhone there are significant benefits to the strategy.

Trov is offering on-demand insurance, including for the new iPhone.

For example, the 128GB model of the iPhone 6s is now $849. Two years ago when it came out, even the 16GB version was more than a grand and the 128GB model cost a whopping $1379. That's a $530 saving after two years and you're still buying a phone that's brand new with a full warranty!

But I digress. This column is actually about how we insure the darn things and the emerging trend of on-demand insurance.
Brisbanes first vertical high school will almost certainly be built in Fortitude Valley by 2020 on the site of the former state school on Brooke Street, Queensland Education Minister Kate Jones says.

Ms Jones said the Valley would likely be home to the state's first high-rise school, with the second possibly set for Brisbane State High Schools catchment area, which includes West End, South Brisbane, South Bank, Highgate Hill and parts of Dutton Park.

Education Minister Kate Jones says 'vertical' high schools now being planned for Queensland's inner-city. Credit:Glenn Hunt/AAP

There is an expectation that we will be looking at different models of development on that small Valley site, Ms Jones said.

So yes, that gives us an opportunity to look at a vertical school on that site.
Sumptuous meals, an inner-city apartment used by his son for seven years, Christmas shopping and "income support" offsetting his mortgage were work expenses claimed by a former NSW RSL president who resigned for "health reasons", an inquiry into the veterans' charity was told on Monday.

Don Rowe was for more than a decade the president of the NSW branch of Australia's oldest charity for veterans before he resigned in 2014, the public was then told, because of his ailing health.

But Fairfax Media later revealed that an internal audit found that from January 2009 to December 2014, Mr Rowe put about $475,000 on his corporate credit card. This included $213,000 in cash withdrawals.

A NSW public inquiry instigated into the charity following Fairfax Media reports was told Mr Rowe's work expenses included allowing a unit at a four-star hotel for the use of him and his son for up to seven years and meals at the pricey Mazzaro mediterranean restaurant.
The current written learner test for young drivers could become a thing of the past.

An Australian-first trial will shake-up the old multiple choice question paper for the first time in four decades.

A new learner driver test is being trialled in six Queensland schools.

Students from six schools across Queensland will be the first to trial the new PrepL online test - an interactive course featuring driving simulation tasks and real-life interviews in order to gain their L plates.

Acting Main Roads Minister Steven Miles was due to announce the new trial with students from Harristown State High School following a cabinet meeting in Toowoomba on Monday morning.
A baby boy is among three people who have been infected with measles in Victoria, and the state Health Department fears there might be many more exposed to the deadly virus.

The authorities were notified last week about the adult woman and the unrelated infant who are both believed to have been exposed to the same infected person.

The third, a man who returned from Romania, where there are 30,000 cases and 30 dead of measles, was confirmed on Monday night.

Victoria's deputy chief health officer Dr Brett Sutton said there were bound to be other infected people out in the community.
Melbourne Express: Tuesday, September 19, 2017

Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later.

Dismiss
Family violence victims will have toll road and parking fines waived under laws to be introduced to Victorian Parliament.

Victorian Legal Aid said perpetrators often tormented their victims by using their cars to deliberately accumulate fines, which the law would address.

Credit:Justin McManus

The scheme will allow domestic violence victims to apply to have fines withdrawn without naming the perpetrator.

Victims who are fined after being forced to use their car in response to family violence, including fleeing dangerous situations, will also be eligible to have their fines scrapped.
A 24-year-old man has been charged under Victoria's new laws aimed to prevent violence from masked offenders for refusing to remove a face covering at a rally in Melbourne on Sunday. A 27-year-old female protester has also been charged with assault after a scuffle with police and journalists.

The man will be charged on summons for wearing the black mask, which covered part of his face, Victoria Police said on Monday. Police moved on three other men under the new laws, enacted on Wednesday, which give authorities more powers to crack down on violent protests and rioters with facial coverings.

17.09.17 The Age Melbourne Booking 144512 Photo shows protesters at an anti Fascists rally in the city. The group is protesting against the far rights "Make Victoria Safe Again' rally. Photo: Scott McNaughton Credit:Scott McNaughton

However, despite the arrests, Victoria Police say they were "generally pleased with the behaviour" at Sunday's two separate rallies  which saw parts of the CBD shut down as for a right-wing demonstration calling for a crackdown on crime and a left-wing counter-protest against racism.
Real estate firm, Marshall White has paid more than $100,000 to a prominent lawyer to settle claims she was repeatedly harassed by an agent and then offered the "deal of the century" by a director attempting to resolve the dispute.

The commercial barrister launched action in the Australian Human Rights Commission last month over allegations she was subjected to a series of sexually suggestive comments by the agent appointed to sell her Port Melbourne property in 2014.

Credit:Virginia Star

The complaint included allegations of unlawful conduct and breaches of the Sex Discrimination Act.

But Marshall White has moved to avert Federal Court action by making the significant ex-gratia payment to their former client, who was required to sign a non-disclosure agreement as a condition of the settlement.
Cruzan Rum redesigned by Webb deVlam

Cruzan Rum's Estate Diamond Distiller's Collection has been repositioned by brand design agency Webb deVlam, with a new identity celebrating its 250 year old Caribbean heritage.

Cruzan claims to have recognised a growing band of casual connoisseurs, people who enjoy the complexity and sophistication of premium rums, preferring to sip and savour  and that other premium brands were experiencing stronger growth. They asked Webb deVlam to take their Estate Diamond Distillers Collection  Light, Dark, Single Barrel and Black Strap  to the next level.

Over two years Webb deVlam worked with Cruzan, carrying out research with focus groups, who felt the similarity between the premium and flavoured bottles diminished the high-end experience.

Webb deVlam also visited Cruzans home of Saint Croix in the US Virgin Islands, including master distiller Gary Nelthropp, whose family has been making the rum for generations.

Classic premium-bottle cues have been introduced, including broad shoulders, a long neck and real wood and cork closures. A tampered cut at the base elevates the product, and textured, darker-hued labels with slightly torn edges echo that elegant island-life feel.

An authoritative embossed-glass logo, which references the Nelthropp family crest and island motifs, has pride of place and allows the rum to shine through, showcasing the four distinct colours within the line, from clear to black. Gary Nelthropps signature on the Single Barrel and Black Strap editions communicates the care that has been taken with every bottle. Notes and illustrations have been added to the labels to tell Cruzans story, and tasting tips included to help consumers savour the individual notes and get the most out of each rum.

Webb deVlam design director Jose Padilla says: "The beautiful island of Saint Croix and the passionate people of the distillery gave us a true appreciation of the history of the brand. Experiencing the simple island life in person gave our team a deep understanding of the people and moments that make it special. It cemented the idea that rum can be an elegant and sophisticated part of the simple island life. Our new expression of the Cruzan brand brings to life the authenticity and attitude of this premium line of aged rums."

Cruzan Rum is available in the US and in travel retail outlets in international airports.

18 September 2017 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, news editor
Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-859-5752, paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu

Contact: Toby Lepley, 979-845-1212, toby.lepley@ag.tamu.edu

Candace Moeller, 361-526-2825, candace.moeller@ag.tamu.edu

Kyle McManus, 361-767-5223, kyle.mcmanus@ag.tamu.edu

Meredith Miller, 361-265-9203, meredith.miller@ag.tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION, Texas  Hundreds of youth in Texas 4-H and out-of-state 4-H programs gave their heads, hearts, hands and health to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts in Texas, said Dr. Toby Lepley, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service state 4-H youth development specialist, College Station.

Texas 4-H is the youth development component of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

Candace Moeller, AgriLife Extension agent in Refugio County, said that county was hit hard by Hurricane Harvey.

In spite of the fact that some of our 4-H families lost everything they had, they still took time to help others in the community, Moeller said. It was really heartwarming.

She said from 20-25 local 4-H members and 10-15 4-H adult volunteers have been helping in countywide relief efforts during the past two weeks.

A lot of the 4-Hers helped at the Refugio County donation center set up at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church in Refugio, she said. They provided donations of food, clothing, bedding, blankets and other necessities. They also helped unload donated items and load items for distribution to those in need.

One of the 4-H members helping at the donation center was Keli Ressmann, a high school sophomore and 10-year 4-H member from Refugio.

Ressmann, who evacuated to San Antonio and later returned to Refugio, helped coordinate and organize supplies for the donation center.

Along with organizing the items, I was a runner, which meant I got information about what supplies people needed and then went out and assembled them. I also helped deliver the supplies, especially to the elderly who couldnt pick them up themselves.

Ressmann said while she was helping she would overhear how the hurricane and flooding affected the people she was helping.

So many of them had lost everything, she said. I was glad to be there doing what I could and helping people get some of the things they needed.

Moeller said both Refugio County 4-H youth and adult volunteers have also been involved in efforts to remove brush, branches and other debris for collection.

Kyle McManus, AgriLife Extension 4-H youth development agent in nearby Nueces County, said more than 120 4-H youth and more than 50 adult 4-H program volunteers from that county also helped with efforts in hard-hit communities, including those in Refugio County.

The 4-Hers and adult volunteers went into several communities to provide help with cleanup, he said. They also provided meals for those in the affected area.

He said Nueces County 4-Hers also helped clear debris and remove tree limbs and other obstructions from neighborhoods.

On Sept. 2 the 4-Hers and adult volunteers served more than 450 meals to those in the affected area, focusing on seniors and others unable to leave their homes, McManus said. The 4-Hers helped cook and we served spaghetti, green beans and a roll, plus cookies and other desserts as well as watermelon to people displaced by the storm.

He said Nueces County 4-Hers are still active in cleanup efforts and stand ready to assist nearby Aransas County when officials give them the go-ahead.

We also plan to return to Refugio County later this month to continue our efforts in that county, he said.

Meredith Miller, AgriLife Extension District 11 4-H specialist based in Corpus Christi, said efforts by 4-H members and adult volunteers in response to Hurricane Harvey have been overwhelming and humbling.

Miller estimates at least 100 4-H members and 30-40 adult volunteers have been helping with cleanup and recovery efforts in Rockport, Fulton, Aransas Pass, Port Aransas and up the Texas Gulf Coast to Bayside and inland to Refugio.

A lot of them have also been working at the shelter distribution area, helping cook and distribute meals, she said. Theyve also been collecting food and clothing for those affected.

Miller noted 4-H clubs throughout the affected area are also involved in a T-shirt sale fundraiser sponsored by Diamond E in Snyder, with all proceeds going to the Texas 4-H Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund.

Weve also been contacted and given assistance by 4-H clubs from Indiana, Oklahoma, New Jersey, Minnesota, Ohio and other states, she said. The response has been tremendous.

Lepley said a prime example of 4-Hers in other states pitching in has been the Stark County 4-H Club of Ohio, which hosted a fundraiser and held a food drive for victims of Hurricane Harvey.

Beth Eicher, president of the Stark County Fairs Junior Fair Marketing Committee, said county 4-H members had approached her with the idea of doing something to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey.

We were having our fair when Hurricane Harvey hit and the 4-Hers immediately thought about how they could help, Eicher said. They asked for advice from the committee and senior board and we all started brainstorming ideas.

Collaborating with others in the community, Stark County 4-H members raised more than $18,000 toward Hurricane Harvey relief in a single day through a livestock auction at the Stark County Fair. In addition, over a four-day period, they worked in conjunction with the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank to collect five full skids of non-perishables to be transported to the Houston Food Bank.

Dale Klick, president of the Senior Fair Board donated a pig for auction, which was purchased by Paris Washington Insurance and Sarchione Chevy/ Ford of Randolph for $2,600. Other buyers donated an additional $4,200, providing $6,800 for 4-H Foundation Texas Relief.

The Dean Pugh family and Robert Butzer provided a steer for auction and then donated the proceeds to the American Veterinary Medical Fund for Texas Relief. Others added their donations, raising $11,290 for that fund.

Nathan Sparren, a nine-year member of Stark County 4-H, said the Akron-Canton Food Bank and local media were supportive of their efforts.

The fairs senior board helped us make connections with the media, and local radio stations and newspapers helped us get the word out on the food drive and auction, Sparren said. We also did Facebook posts and used other social media to spread the word.

He said he was impressed with the way the 4-H members suddenly came together to help.

Everybody just forgot about whatever problems they had and put aside whatever they were doing to pitch in, he said. It was a great feeling.

David Crawford, Ohio State University county Extension director and 4-H agent, said more than 750 youth from Stark County were either directly or indirectly involved in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. He also cited the efforts of the many 4-H adult volunteers.

We stress community service in 4-H and this was a great example of our youth working together to help others, Crawford said. It was an experience and a life lesson they can remember  and one that will serve them for a lifetime.

Both Eicher and Crawford also praised members of the Sancic family, a longtime 4-H family, who drove three truckloads of livestock hay and feed from their operation in Ohio to a Livestock Supply Point in Nome, Texas, to provide nourishment for animals displaced by the storm.

The compassion and outpouring of generosity by 4-H members and adult volunteers in Texas and other states has been overwhelming, Lepley said. They have demonstrated the kind of character and selflessness we have come to expect from those in the 4-H family. We are proud of them and we are extremely grateful for everything they have done.

-30-
Three people were killed in a triple-car crash over the weekend at the intersection of F.M. 2562 and F.M. 149 in Grimes County

Sunday's accident, which was reported at about 11:30 a.m. Sunday, remained under investigation Monday by troopers with the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The preliminary findings indicate that Willis resident Nichole Billnoske was driving her 2012 Hyundai south on F.M. 2562 approaching a stop sign at the intersection of F.M. 149, while San Antonio resident Erika Anderson - in her 2011 Volvo - was traveling west on F.M. and Bryan resident Jill Markowski 2013 Volkswagen was headed east on F.M. 149. Both Anderson and Markowski were approaching F.M. 2562 from opposite directions.

The 20-year-old driver of the Hyundai failed to yield the right of way, driving into the intersection, and was struck by the Volvo and Volkswagen, authorities said.

Billnoske died at the scene. Both of Markowski's passengers - Bryan residents Stephen Markowski, 56, and Keith Donle, 66 - were killed in the crash.

The other drivers survived. Anderson, 33, was treated for minor injuries and released from Scott and White Hospital in College Station; Jill Markowski, 55, remained at St. Joseph hospital in Bryan where her injuries were identified as being "stable."
The public's feedback is being sought Wednesday ahead of the Bryan Planning and Zoning Commission's consideration of four amendments aiming to better regulate the development of "stealth dorms" in single-family neighborhoods.

The P&Z's stealth dorm subcommittee is scheduled to give a presentation at Wednesday's public meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Bryan Municipal Office Building, followed by an opportunity for residents to ask questions and give feedback on the multi-phase approach the subcommittee has proposed to help mitigate the impacts of stealth dorms.

The subcommittee -- which was appointed this time last year -- held two public input meetings and gathered 288 survey responses and 21 email comments as part of its research into the by-the-bedroom rental properties that have become common in many single-family neighborhoods. On Thursday, P&Z commissioners are expected to consider the subcommittee's four recommendations on the issue.

If approved, the City Council is set to consider the potential amendments to the city's Code of Ordinances during an Oct. 10 meeting.

According to a P&Z memorandum, the subcommittee reported to the full commission in July that the "current situation of unregulated growth of stealth dorms in Bryan is harmful to the city of Bryan."

This type of rental housing doesn't align with surrounding single-family homes in established neighborhoods, the subcommittee reported, and is "detrimental" to the current and future interests of Bryan residents given that the "removal of many affordable single-family starter homes" makes home ownership "unattainable" for a large segment of the population.

P&Z commissioners will consider the following four proposed text amendments to the Code of Ordinances related to stealth dorms:

 Defining them as "detached shared housing."

 Adding a definition for "bedroom."

 Potentially allowing for detached shared housing with approval of a conditional use permit.

 Adding specific requirements related to parking and access.

The newly-defined use of "detached shared housing" would only apply to structures built after the passage of the amendment, if recommended by the P&Z and approved by the City Council.

The proposed text amendment defines detached shared housing as a detached dwelling unit with four or more bedrooms, unless "competent evidence" can establish that the residence is occupied by people related by blood, marriage, adoption or domestic partnership, with no more than two unrelated individuals. The rental properties are often leased to unrelated tenants -- the city already restricts the number of unrelated adults who can live together under one roof to four.

The added definition of "bedroom" would mean any habitable room greater than 70 square feet separate from the remainder of the dwelling other than a kitchen, bathroom or utility room.

It would be up to the full Planning and Zoning Commission to determine under what circumstances detached shared housing should be permitted and the zoning districts it would be appropriate in, the memorandum states.

The subcommittee proposes that detached shared housing be potentially allowed with prior approval of a conditional use permit in specific zoning districts. When allowed with the prior approval of a conditional use permit, the specific use standards are proposed to be added to ensure compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. Those include requiring one parking space per bedroom, two canopy trees per lot and "independently accessible" parking spaces.

The memorandum states the subcommittee believes the recommendations are only the first step toward addressing the issue of stealth dorms, with further discussions needed on the creation of overlay districts where the housing may be allowed by right, amending parking requirements for situations where garages are converted to bedrooms and further study on the possible implementation of established lot size standards.

Thursday's special P&Z meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Bryan Municipal Office Building, which is at 300 S. Texas Ave.
In the era of fake news, misinformation tends to spread quickly  especially during a time of crisis. The deceptions that have sprung up in the wake of hurricanes Harvey and Irma show that its high time to separate fact from fiction.

When Harvey hit landfall, a picture of a shark allegedly on a highway in Houston went viral, fooling at least one reporter. The same fake picture, which has been around for years, cropped up during Irma. Yet before stopping to check if the picture is real, people retweet or share it on Facebook hundreds of thousands of times.

The same is true for blaming man-made climate change for Harvey and Irma. Before actually analyzing the data, one news outlet wrote, Harvey is what climate change looks like. Another called the one-two punch of Harvey and Irma the potential new normal. Other environmental activists went as far as to say that the two natural disasters are reason to finally jail officials who reject science.

Theres only one small problem with such accusations. Man-made warming did not cause Harvey and Irma. As carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions have increased, there have been no trends in global tropical cycle landfalls. Before Harvey and Irma, with a little bit of luck, the United States was in a 12-year hurricane drought. More importantly, the average number of hurricanes per decade reaching landfall in the U.S. has fallen over the past 160 years.

This comes not via denier data, but from mainstream science. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported in its most recent scientific assessment that (n)o robust trends in annual numbers of tropical storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes  have been identified over the past 100 years in the North Atlantic basin, and that there are no significant observed trends in global tropical cyclone frequency.

According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, It is premature to conclude that human activities  and particularly greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming  have already had a detectable impact on Atlantic hurricane or global tropical cyclone activity.

Other media outlets took a more measured approach, claiming that man did not cause Harvey and Irma but supercharged them. The reasoning is that warmer sea surface temperatures increase moisture in the air and, in turn, up the intensity of the hurricanes.

But University of Washington climatologist Cliff Mass, after examining precipitation levels in the Gulf, discredited this claim. He found that (t)here is no evidence that global warming is influencing Texas coastal precipitation in the long term and little evidence that warmer than normal temperatures had any real impact on the precipitation intensity from this storm.

CNN asked Bill Read, former director of the National Hurricane Center, whether man-made climate change was intensifying storms. He said no, adding, This is not an uncommon occurrence to see storms grow and intensify rapidly in the western Gulf of Mexico. Thats as long as weve been tracking them that has occurred.

Even if man-made warming were responsible for Harvey and Irma, the policies that tax or regulate carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions are costly non-solutions. The U.S. could slap a $40 tax on all carbon dioxide emissions, and the climate benefits hardly would be noticeable. By the year 2100, the averted warming would be less than two-tenths of a degree Celsius, and the averted sea level rise would be less than 2 centimeters.

The costs, however, would be staggering. Because carbon dioxide-emitting conventional fuels meet 80 percent of Americas energy needs, the tax would harm families multiple times over as energy is a necessary component for almost everything we make and do. Between now and 2035, the country would experience an average employment shortfall of 400,000 lost jobs, a total loss of income exceeding $20,000 for a family of four, and a $2.5 trillion hit to the overall economy. That means less wealth to combat future challenges, whether they are climate-related or not.

Political opportunism is distracting from what is important: helping the people in Houston, Florida and the islands. Policymakers should focus on improving natural disaster response, resilience and preparedness. Blaming man-made climate change on Harvey and Irma is truly denying the data.

Nicolas Loris is the Morgan Research Fellow in Energy and Environmental Policy at The Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue NE, Washington, D.C., 20002. Distributed by Tribune News Service.
Ryans Hair Designs is a throwback.

And its not just because of the clear, plastic-bubble hair dryers attached to avocado-colored leather chairs purchased in the late 1960s.

The shop that at one time had seven stylists is down to three, but the feeling of family remains among its owner, his dedicated employees and longtime customers. At least one of those customers has been coming to the shop since 1967, when it was located in Monona.

I had to have my hair done and Ive been coming here ever since, said Elfrieda Strand, 87. I loved my hairdresser, Dorothy. I miss her.

That would be Dorothy Mattie, who retired in July after 48 years. Shirley Adams spent 46 years at the shop cutting hair before retiring in 2016 while Laurel Jones remains behind a chair in her 47th year at the shop.

The founder of the business, Jim Ryan, has all of them beat, but only by a few years and next week will celebrate 50 years in the industry in a market flush with independent shops and regional and national chains. Ryan cuts hair only three times a week but remains a big personality in the shop, at 1025 Lumbermans Trail, near the Culvers on Cottage Grove Road on Madisons Far East Side.

Im so proud of this, Ryan said under a constant din of background chatter. I wish I could do 50 hours a week, but I just dont have the lung capacity.

Ryan, who is about to turn 72, has survived two bouts of lung cancer and is unsure how long hell continue in the business. Hes also contemplating how to pass the legacy of the shop to a younger owner but isnt sure when or if that would occur. So for now he continues to work six hours at a shot on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and share stories of the shops beginnings.

Hes got an awesome heart, said Mattie, a cancer survivor herself. Hes just very caring about all of his customers and us girls, too. Weve just made it fun, and thats why weve had this old-fashioned thing. Its pretty awesome when you come to work and it doesnt feel like work.

Ryan is one of 10 children and whose father, Paul Ryan, opened a funeral home on King Street in Downtown Madison in 1960. Jim Ryans brother, Connie, opened his own funeral home in 1966 while brothers Pat and Paul founded Ryan Brothers Ambulance Service out of their fathers funeral home on King Street in 1962. The ambulance company, now based on South Park Street, has nearly 100 employees and seven stations in Dane, Rock and Jefferson counties.

Jim Ryan followed suit with a people business but focused on hair.

After graduating from Monona Grove High School in 1962, Ryan attended the Accredited School of Beauty just off Capitol Square, and after completing the course worked for a year at Neffs at 342 State St. From 1964 to 1967 Ryan worked in the beauty and barber shop in the basement of the Park Motor Inn before he approached a banker at Monona Grove State Bank about a $5,000 loan to open his own shop. Ryan was 21 years old and his wife, Patsy, was pregnant.

I asked for a loan, he talked to me for like two hours, Ryan said. He gave me the loan. I couldnt believe it. I had nothing. It could have bought two new Chevrolets.

Ryans first shop was in a garage behind the old Doughnut Land on Monona Drive that he remodeled and rented for $125 a month. Two years later, Ryan, his wife pregnant again, borrowed $7,000 to open a shop behind the fire station on Cottage Grove Road. The shop had nine operators while his original shop had grown to four chairs. Ryan sold the Monona shop in 1971 and then, in 1979, borrowed $65,000 to purchase land to build his current shop.

Its very competitive, Ryan said of todays hair industry. Back then, I knew every single shop owner in the city of Madison. It would be impossible today to name 10 percent of them. You dont see shops like this anymore.

Over the years, Ryan, his staff and customers have donated nearly $60,000 in tips  collected in a Currier & Ives Christmas tin  to charitable causes.

Ryan said he and his brothers inherited their fathers business sense and the compassion he had for people. He also helped keep his sons shop afloat in its early days as many of Jim Ryans customers were friends of his parents from church, card clubs and other organizations.

I would not have made it without the name Ryan. I admit that, Jim Ryan said. My dad was the most friendly and honest man and it brushed off on every one of his children. But it was a big break having the name Ryan.
BRIDGEPORT  Bridgeport Bluefish owner Frank Boulton said his team wouldnt be homeless for long and he was right.

On Friday, the Atlantic League revealed the new home of the team to be the city of High Point, N.C. Bolton said the team would begin playing there in 2019.

We had choices for where the Bluefish would go, Boulton said. We spent 20 years in Bridgeport, and the city made a decision to go in the amphitheater direction. We wish them the best.

The city announced last month that it would convert the Ballpark at Harbor Yard into an amphitheater, which would leave the Bluefish team without a diamond.

The Bluefish have three games remaining  on Sept. 15-17, all against the Somerset Patriots  at Harbor Yard as a part of their regular season. Should they continue into the playoffs, Boulton said, the teams lease allows for postseason games.

Itll be a little slice of history  our last few games there, Boulton said. Its ending a 20-year run.

The amphitheater proposal is far from being finalized, though. A formal contract needs to be drafted and some legal issues must be resolved.

Back in March, the city was looking for a new tenant for the ballpark, and the Bluefish were among those vying for the space. Meanwhile, Boulton said, High Point emerged as a viable place for relocation.

Ive been in serious discussion (with High Point) for about six months, he said.

Bluefish co-founder Mickey Herbert sold the team to investors in 2005, who in turn sold it to Boulton in 2008. Herbert is now the head of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council.

Its really starting to hit home to me, Herbert said Friday. No matter what, whether the amphitheater thing flies or doesnt, theres not going to be a Bluefish team around.

It was unclear where or whether the team would play in 2018, and whether the Bluefish name will change.

High Point is a city, roughly in the middle of North Carolina, more than 200 miles from the coastline. In 2016, the U.S. Census Bureau said the citys population was over 111,000. The teams future home city is known as the furniture capital of the world, Boulton said.

(Bluefish fans) can stop by when theyre buying their furniture, he joked.

Herbert said hes trying to get people together who have worked and played for the Blue Fish to attend the final game of the regular season at Harbor Yard.

Its almost like a funeral dirge, but were all going to go and kind of say we were there for the first game, well be there for the last game, Herbert said.

Staff writer Brian Lockhart contributed reporting.
A Madison man shot and killed his wife weeks ago and blew up their Southwest Side house on Wednesday as an attempt to cover up the homicide, Madison Police Chief Mike Koval said Sunday.

Lee Anne Pirus, 50, was identified by the Dane County Medical Examiners Office as the body found amid the rubble of a house at 7806 Stratton Way. Koval said she was shot by her husband, 59-year-old Steven Pirus, weeks, if not months ago. He was arrested late Saturday on tentative charges of first-degree intentional homicide, arson and reckless endangerment, Koval said.

Steven Pirus shot and killed Lee Anne, Koval said at a news conference. Steven intentionally blew up this house. Hes as much as admitted it over the course of several days of conversations.

Koval said investigators are looking into the couples past to determine what the motive might have been.

I dont want to rule out financials. I dont want t0 rule out extra-marital issues. I dont want to rule out anything, he said. The suspect himself, soon to be a defendant himself, has vacillated between his motives.

The death marks the record-breaking 11th homicide in Madison this year. The previous high was set in 2008 when the city experienced 10 homicides.

Madison Fire Chief Steven Davis said natural gas was involved in the explosion, and an investigative task force gathered enough evidence by early Saturday to determine the blast was intentional.

He would have had to manipulate, physically manipulate, a gas line leading from the dryer to the sub-basement in and around the area where her body was recovered, Koval said.

The medical examiners office informed police Lee Anne Pirus had been dead conservatively for weeks, Koval said, but no missing persons report had been filed with the Madison Police Department.

That never really got onto our radar screen, because no one had ever filed a report, Koval said. I would concede thats unusual.

Several neighbors told a State Journal reporter they had not seen Lee Anne Pirus in weeks and werent sure if she still lived in the residence.

The couple, who had been married for more than 20 years, had no children together, Koval said. They moved into their two-story house with two basement levels right off South High Point Road in 2005.

It was leveled by the blast around 2 p.m. Wednesday. Pirus body was found Friday morning.

By doing something so reckless as he did, he not only attempted to cover up a deliberate, intentional homicide, but he also obviously put innocent third parties at risk, Koval said.

There had been previous calls for service at the address, Koval said, but he would not disclose the nature of those calls.

Davis said a specialist from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is working on the scene to figure out how much gas was involved and what might have triggered the explosion.

The medical examiners office will also be conducting further testing to try to determine how long Pirus had been dead, Koval said.

When the state Fire Marshals Office and ATF conclude their portions of the investigation, the findings will be handed over to assist the Madison police and fire departments, Davis said.

He said the fire department is almost finished with its small particle work, which includes putting the debris through screens to look for evidence.

South High Point Road was scheduled to be reopened to traffic Sunday evening. Investigators had used the roadway as a staging area for several days.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Steve Helber / Associated Press Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Steve Helber / Associated Press Show More Show Less 3 of 3





STORRS  University of Connecticut art historians will discuss controversies over monuments and memorials on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Dodd Research Center, 405 Babbidge Road, Storrs.

The program comes after a deadly Charlottesville clash that included protests over a Robert E. Lee statue. It is open to the public at no charge.
NORWALK  The Norwalk Police Union has endorsed Mayor Harry Rilling in his bid for a third term.

Having served as a police officer in virtually every capacity that the department has and having a firm understanding of what it takes to do the job from all positions, he has a better understanding of the employee side of the job of city management and because of that he can walk in somebody elses shoes. He gets it, said Lt. Dave OConnor, president of the union. He was a good police officer, he was an excellent police chief and hes been an outstanding mayor.
A deal-breaker in July may not be a deal-breaker in September.

The latest Obamacare overhaul bill gaining steam on Capitol Hill slashes health-care spending more deeply and would likely cover fewer people than a July bill that failed precisely because of such concerns. What's different now is the sense of urgency senators are bringing to their effort to rollback the Affordable Care Act, with only a dozen days remaining before the legislative vehicle they're using expires.

The political prospects for the bill, offered by Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., seemed to be improving by the hour on Monday. A key Republican governor, Arizona's Doug Ducey, signaled support for the legislation and some moderate senators whose votes are crucial have either already signed onto the bill or at least haven't ruled it out yet. Ducey opposed the Senate leadership's Better Care Reconciliation Act - which was defeated in July - and his opposition heavily influenced the decision not to back that measure by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.

Worries over steep Medicaid cuts - and how many people could potentially lose protections or their health coverage altogether - drove the GOP effort into a ditch at the end of July, when BCRA failed by seven votes.

It's hard to see how the Cassidy-Graham plan resolves those concerns. In many cases, it could make them even more acute. The Congressional Budget Office has said it will release a "preliminary assessment" of the measure next week, which will provide some information on its effects on the budget. But the CBO said it would be a "at least several weeks" before it can estimate whether people would lose insurance and if premiums would spike.

The measure would actually cut even more federal health-care spending than the BCRA, and aim the cuts more directly at states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA. It was the governors and senators from those states who were most deeply worried about Medicaid cuts to begin with.

In fact, compared to both the House and Senate health-care bills, the Graham-Cassidy measure would more drastically remold the ACA by giving states virtually unlimited control over federal dollars currently being spent on marketplace subsidies and Medicaid expansion. It would also allow states to opt out of virtually all od the ACA's insurer regulations by obtaining waivers.

It would work roughly like this: Starting in 2021, the federal government would lump together all the money it spends on subsidies distributed through the ACA marketplaces and expanded Medicaid programs covering poor, childless adults living up to 133 percent of the federal poverty.

The government would redistribute all that money to states through what's known as a block grant, based on a formula that takes into account the state's share of low-income adults, among other factors.

This approach would generally result in less money for states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA and more money for states that didn't. That's because Graham-Cassidy would redistribute the money allotted to the 30 states that opted to expand Medicaid under the ACA and spread it out among all 50 states.

The government would redistribute all that money to states through what's known as a block grant. These block grants would be based on a formula that takes into account the state's share of low-income adults, an approach that would generally result in less money for states that expanded Medicaid and more money for states that didn't.

So Texas, for example, would see an increase in its federal health-care funding while states like Alaska or Arizona (which both expanded Medicaid) would see a decrease. That could make it harder for Cassidy to convince senators from those states - Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski and McCain, who is being treated for brain cancer, namely - to support his bill.

Louisiana - Cassidy's own state - is also among the states that stand to lose the most funding under this approach. Other states include California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington, whose Medicaid expansion dollars would be cut anywhere from 35 to 60 percent.

By 2026, the federal government would be spending 17 percent less on subsidies and Medicaid expansion overall than under current projections, according to an analysis by the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities.

Then, in 2027, states would face a big fiscal cliff, when the Cassidy bill would halt all that spending. That's a major step further than the BCRA, which would have retained the marketplace subsidies (despite reducing them somewhat) and allowed states to keep Medicaid expansion (albeit paying for these enrollees at the normal matching rate and not the ACA's expanded matching rate).

The Graham-Cassidy bill does pretty closely mirror the BCRA in how it treats the regular Medicaid program. It would convert that program to a per-capita system based on the number of enrollees in a state instead of the open-ended funding approach the federal government currently takes.

Under the measure, regular Medicaid funding (not including expansion) would be 8 percent lower by 2026; it would have been 9 percent lower that year under the BCRA.

But there's another way the Cassidy bill goes further than previous Obamacare rollback measures; it would allow states to opt out of the law's "essential health benefits" - or baseline services insurers must cover. That means there will no longer be a rock-solid prohibition on charging people higher premiums to people with preexisting medical conditions, though states would need federal waivers.

The second version of the BCRA - which Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell rolled out in mid-July with an amendment from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas - would have allowed insurers to opt out of those regulations but only if they also sold a fully ACA-compliant plan on the marketplaces.

The bottom line is this: The Cassidy bill will appeal to most conservatives in the House and the Senate, who can make the case to their base that they're unshackling states from federal mandates and giving them huge leeway to construct a health-care approach that works best for them.

But if the moderate Republicans go along with this latest approach, they'd have to ignore the type of hefty Medicaid cuts they'd previously opposed.
Jonathan Hamner never thought his life would take the path it has.

As a student at Midland University, Hamner studied religion/philosophy and youth and family ministry with the hopes of becoming a pastor. However, Hamner said he received an amazing surprise as his life journey led him on a different path than the one he initially planned to take.

Currently, Hamner works as the Community Outreach Coordinator for Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity.

Our mission at Habitat for Humanity is that we empower through shelter, he said. My role in our mission is to help communicate the stories of the home buyers, volunteers and the extraordinary number of people that give up their time, money and resources to make what we do possible. That is a humbling task. There are so many awesome stories to share.

Hamner added that on Saturday he planned to be at a job site taking pictures of groups at two different job sites as part of his job.

As I take their pictures, I always ask questions, he said. If there is something that jumps out, I always have my camera right there and I can get a little bit about what they are doing, why they are there and what Habitat means for them.

Hamner has worked as the Community Outreach Coordinator since Sept. 2016. Before being hired by Habitat full-time, he worked as an intern after coming back to Grand Island from Argentina due to his mother, Devon, having terminal ovarian cancer.

We wanted to help her life and to help my dad start the next chapter in his life, he said. I knew I wanted to work for a non-profit. The first thing that came to mind was Habitat because it had always been presented to me as this awesome benefit station of Christian love.

But before he came home to Grand Island and before he began working at Habitat for Humanity, there was Argentina.

Hamner was a college freshman when his sister invited him to go with her to Argentina to help out with youth camps in the province of Misiones.

I was a Nebraska boy who had never been out of the country before, Hamner said. When I went there, I didnt speak the language. I remember, when we were in youth camps, hearing the same Bible stories be told from a completely different perspective than I had ever heard them before. It was fascinating to me.

While in Argentina, Hamner fell in love with Argentina in more than one way. While in the country, a woman named Valeria was the translator on the trip. Valeria later became Hamners wife as the couple married in 2007.

We invited Valeria and her brother, Matias, to come to South Dakota with us, he said. That is where we worked in the summer at youth camps. Then I went back to Argentina, they came back, I went back there and in 2007 we got married.

Hamner said Valeria, her mom and her brother are English teachers in Argentina. He explained students there go to school for half a day and are free to attend a private academy to learn a specific subject in a more intensive way. Hamner said he worked with Valeria and her family to open the De Paula School of English.

They were working at another academy and realized that they could do something special with education to help students live out their full potential in a way they couldnt before, he said. We started by building a room onto my parents-in-laws house and used that as a classroom. We officially opened up the school with three classrooms. Now we have six classrooms and 300 students, which makes it the largest one in the city (Obera, Misiones).

When he embarked on his first trip to Argentina, Hamner said he bought a Canon camera to use take pictures. He had a friend who was getting married, and did not want to pay a photographer, ask him to take photos of the wedding, which led to unexpected opportunity.

We put those pictures on Facebook and a clothing store saw them and asked me to take pictures for them, Hamner said. Then, a girl who wanted some professional pictures taken came up to me and asked me if Id do her pictures. Then, her friend asked me if Id take pictures for her birthday party. Before I knew it, I had a business.

Hamner had been teaching at a tertiary school, but with the demand for photography taking off, he decided to step away from teaching and form his own photography business.

The business ended up being one of the most successful in the state, Hamner said. I absolutely loved being able to be there and help capture peoples most important moments of their lives. I have always tried to use my camera as a tool to help the community.

Once his mother became diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Hamner and his wife moved back to Grand Island to be there for the end of his mothers life and to help support his father for a year afterwards.

We already passed that year and we know that at some time next year we are going to be moving, Hamner said. We will be going back to Argentina and I will be re-opening my photography business there.

Hamner said through his work in Argentina, he learned to speak Spanish, which has proven to be a blessing in his work with Habitat for Humanity and within the community.

At First Presbyterian Church, there was a couple who came there, were interested in joining and wanted their baby to be baptized, but didnt speak much English he said. So, being able to help with that or when somebody comes in to fill out an application for a home loan, being able to have that ability is beneficial.

In his job, Hamner added he continues to take photos, and even videos, which help to tell the story and the mission of the organization. He said he planned to take photos at two job sites this past Saturday.

As I take their pictures, I always ask questions, Hamner said. If there is something that jumps out, I always have my camera right there and I can get a bit of what they are doing, why they are there and what Habitat means for them. Since Ive been at Habitat, Ive also fallen in love with doing videos. That is one of my favorite ways to communicate that. There is just something about that medium that connects with people.

When asked what makes him an extraordinary person, Hamner was humble. He said there is absolutely nothing extraordinary about him, but that he is surrounded by extraordinary people who inspire him every day.

Virtually everything that I really wanted to say has been based around somebody elses story and the amazing things that they were doing, Hamner said. I am surrounded by these extraordinary people and I get to listen to their stories, suck it in and I just share it with others.
Sun Prairie Fire Chief Chris Garrison remembers his aha moment, when he knew he was on the right track with a pilot program in which high school students at Prairie Phoenix Academy attend the Fire Academy program at Madison Area Technical College.

Garrison said one of the students, D.J. Presley, had put on the firefighter gear and when asked how it felt replied, It just fits.

Thats all Garrison needed to witness as he was spearheading the year-long academic program created by the Sun Prairie Fire Department, Prairie Phoenix Academy and Madison Area Technical College. MATC shuttles the 11 students from their school each morning to the Fire Academy, where they attend classes and training, and then returns them to Prairie Phoenix Academy to finish their school day.

The appreciation for the chance to get college credit through the program was palpable as Presley, a senior at Prairie Phoenix Academy, spoke about what he called a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Usually people dont do this, said Presley, about the program which is being offered free to students. Its like being handed a couple thousand dollars.

Garrison said the idea for the pilot program was prompted by the difficulties with recruiting and retaining full-time and volunteer firefighters and an interest in more diversity. He said other area fire departments have since shown interest in the program, which upon successful completion provides firefighter and EMT certification.

This is about taking some of our most at-risk youth and helping them to do some of the most important work in Sun Prairie, Garrison said. We want our organization to be as diverse as our city and growing this program, from the inside out, gives us that opportunity.

Prairie Phoenix Academy was a natural fit for the pilot program because of students flexible schedules and their interest in hands-on activities, he said.

My job is to find ways to say yes to get kids in places where they want to be, Principal Lisa Bollinger said. This is really an excellent gateway to what their next career might be.

Nancy Everson, the school-to-career manager for Sun Prairie high school students, said this is a natural addition to other opportunities for students through the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship program. In the case of the firefighter partnership, Madison College is providing the instruction, transportation and college credit, she said. The school district provides the books and uniforms, and the Fire Department is providing mentorship and student support.

Bollinger said students are so proud of their uniforms, which consist of navy blue pants and a navy blue T shirt with MATC Fire Academy printed on the back, that they wear them even after they leave the Fire Academy.

Junior Caira Phipps said younger students on her bus are more than impressed when they see her in uniform, and she likes how others also now see her.

Back in the day, I was a bad kid and people are like Youve changed so much, she said.

Phipps has taken on an organizational and leadership role at the Fire Academy and is known to call other students when they havent shown up for the bus to get there.

Junior Trentin Holsten said at first he wasnt interested and never thought of firefighting as a career, but now he is considering it. One of his favorite parts of the program, he said, is putting on the gear, and sometimes he tries to be the first to put it on.

Ernie Martinez, one of the Fire Academy instructors in the pilot program, said he feels that part of his job is making connections with the students, who are younger than most he teaches.

We have to find what works for them, he said.
The problem of college students with mental health issues is not new, but the ramifications of this oftentimes hidden issue is becoming more and more acute for those of us who work on campuses. And while there hasnt been a major violent situation lately  such as the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre  we all sense that mental health issues represent a ticking bomb at the nations colleges and universities.

The National Council on Disability (NCD), an independent federal agency headquartered in Washington, D.C., has just released a report titled

Mental Health on College Campuses: Investments, Accommodations Needed to Address Student Needs. The report constitutes an immediate call to action.

This report does not reveal anything new. Its premises are well known.

The percentage of college students seeking support for mental health issues at all levels is increasing, and that most campuses are not responding appropriately to their needs. This lack of resources impacts students ability to succeed in college. Students with problems such as stress, substance abuse, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation continue to face barriers to accessing counseling services on campus and in receiving disability-related accommodations that are necessary to help them participate in their education on an equal footing with students without disabilities, according to the report, which calls

for major reforms in both institutional policies and practices, and in federal laws and policies.

The NCD report is based on research conducted by interviewing numerous social science researchers, advocates, college administrators, college policymakers, college legal counsels, disability specialists and mental health service providers. It lays out a series of recommendations to Congress, the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as well as directly to institutions of higher education. More faculty, staff, and administrators, according to the report, need training in identifying and supporting students with mental health issues, while making sure that colleges provide disability-related modifications and accommodations as required under federal disability laws. Lack of resources for students seems to be particularly acute in the case of community colleges in rural areas, the study found.

The recommendations made by the NCD include, but are not limited to, asking Congress to provide more funding for mental health and substance abuse disorder services on campuses, money to assist colleges in meeting the increased need for mental health services and support for students, as well as increasing funding for suicide prevention programs. The NCD calls for the government to provide this funding assistance contingent on those colleges implementing a mental health program, just as federal law makes federal financial assistance available contingent on a colleges implementation of a program to prevent student use/abuse of illicit drugs and alcohol.

The report also recommends Congress substantially increase Pell Grants to provide opportunities to students with disabilities who are disproportionately low-income, to amend the Higher Education Act to extend the length of time a student with a disability is eligible for federal financial aid and to allow students whose disabilities cause them to require additional semesters of financial aid to retain their eligibility for Pell Grants beyond 12 semesters.

Among the recommendations to the U.S. Department of Education are to provide colleges with best practices for responding to students who exhibit or threaten self-harming behavior, to provide colleges with best practices for offering legally required modifications and accommodations for students with mental health disabilities, to modify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to allow students to directly input disability-related expenses, and to clarify to colleges that student support services funding can be used to provide mental health counseling services.

The NCD also recommends the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to take actions to increase the awareness at colleges about mental health grant funding opportunities, including funds available under the 21st Century Cures Act, a law passed by Congress in 2016 that authorized over $6 billion in health-related funding.

These and many other recommendations in the report are timely and sound, but will they be heard? Most likely not. With a Congress, an administration, and the media fully distracted in ideological battles about healthcare, Russia-related news, and budgetary issues, the NCD report will most likely be ignored until the next Virginia Tech type of incident  a tragedy that resulted in the killing of 32 people and the wounding of 17 others.

Then well see policy makers rushing to make grandiose statements while not mentioning that the responsibility of preventing these kinds of tragedies was theirs in the first place. The same can be said of federal agencies which lack the nerve to implement the law or to come up with actions that require vision, particularly because many of them have vacant positions yet to be filled caused by the lack of action by the current administration.

Lastly, but equally important, we need better leadership at the college level that shows a genuine interest in dealing with this issue by seeking external funding and redirecting internal funding to provide the necessary services to students dealing with mental health issues. Many administrators at colleges and universities are focused on solving budgetary issues caused by diminishing financial support from their states, or are distracted trying to make their boards of trustees happy by increasing the prominence of their institutions in meaningless and unscientific rankings. Sadly, do not expect U.S. News and World Report or others to publish rankings about Colleges that do Best in Addressing Mental Health Issues anytime soon.

Dr. Aldemaro Romero Jr. is the Dean of the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences at Baruch College-CUNY. He can be contacted through his website at: http://www.aromerojr.net.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Los Angeles, United States  Mon, September 18, 2017 16:31 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a21251f3 2 People Elisabeth-Moss,the-handmaids-tale,actress,TV-series Free

Elisabeth Moss on Sunday took home a top Emmy for depicting a victim of a cult, although in real life she is a member of the controversial Church of Scientology.

The 35-year-old, earlier known for roles in "The West Wing" and "Mad Men," won her first Emmy for a role in "The Handmaid's Tale" in the category of best actress in a drama series.

The series by on-demand service Hulu -- which also won best drama in the television awards -- tells of a misogynistic authoritarian regime that establishes control in New England in response to a fertility crisis.

Her role has repeatedly drawn attention to her affiliation with Scientology, the faith she shares with Hollywood celebrities such as Tom Cruise.

When an internet user took to Instagram last month and politely asked her if Scientology reminded her of Gilead, the controling tyrant in "The Handmaid's Tale," Moss rejected the comparison.

"Religious freedom and tolerance and understanding the truth and equal rights for every race, religion and creed are extremely important to me. The most important things to me probably," she wrote.

Actress Leah Remini drew new attention to Scientology with a documentary on the church, which she describes as persistently seeking money and control out of its members and ruthlessly going after critics.

"Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath" also won an Emmy on Sunday, for best informational series or special. The church has rejected the documentary, aired by the A&E network.

Read also: Moss wins actress Emmy for 'The Handmaid's Tale'

Breakthrough as child

Raised by Scientologist musician parents in Los Angeles, Moss said in a 2015 interview for the Screen Actors Guild Foundation that her entire family consisted of artists and she never imagined a different career path.

She was discovered as a young girl when she was playing in a local production of "The Sound of Music."

She started landing television roles at age 7 -- first in family programming but eventually being cast in "Picket Fences," a quirky police drama about odd happenings in a small town in Wisconsin.

Moss became known to a wider public by playing Zoey Bartlet, the president's eldest daughter, on White House drama "The West Wing."

A student at Georgetown University, Zoey Bartlet became the center of several episodes. Her relationship with an African American man set off a white supremacist attack, while separately her French boyfriend drugs her, causing a crisis.

Moss began to take more ambitious roles as an adult. At age 24 she started to play Peggy Olson in "Mad Men" -- a cerebral secretary who tries to work her way up but keeps fighting to get ahead in a macho, male-dominated advertising agency.

She has also acted in New York and London and become a frequent presence in cinema, playing in films ranging from the journalism drama "Truth" to the thriller "Queen of Earth."

Even before leaving "Mad Men," Moss took a new direction by joining New Zealand director Jane Campion's series "Top of the Lake," portraying a detective who searches for a missing pregnant 12-year-old.

Moss won a Golden Glove and credited Campion with giving her a fresh outlook on the range of roles she could play.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Sebastian Partogi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 09:06 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2109d18 4 Art & Culture #essay,Chinese-Indonesian-residents,Racism,identity-politics Free

Johan (not his real name) and I went to the same elementary school. We are both Indonesians of Chinese descent. Reuniting with him recently, I remember an incident that happened to both of us almost 16 years ago.

There was a teacher who said that people with yellow skin are not Indonesians; those who can be validly called pribumi (indigenous) Indonesians are those with brown skin. The rest are foreigners with whom students must be careful because we are basically insincere, petty-minded and shrewd, he concluded in his brief speech.

Then, I remember seeing Johan coming to school with scratches all over his arms and face.

I hate my own skin color, I recall him saying.

When we met again 16 years later, he joked: A bad idea, that skin-scratching thing. I could have soaked in the sun instead to get a tan. Racial prejudice is a painful thing to go through. It forces you to be something other than who you really are.

Johan is not alone. In Dreams of My Father, Barack Obama recounted a story about an African-American man who bleached his skin to look white  quite an inverse phenomenon to the one Johan and I were experiencing in Indonesia.

Prejudice is the worst consequence of human perception, yet sadly, it is hard-wired into our brains. To make sense of the world, people categorize and classify information based on proximity and similarities. The same principle goes to the classification of people coming from different socio-cultural backgrounds in this diverse world.

Classification and stereotypes are our initial effort to understand different people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. Yet, as we get older, some of us can sort out information and add exceptions to the rule to escape the trap of narrow-minded prejudice, and begin to perceive people as multi-dimensional, helping us to transcend racial and religious boundaries.

Some, unfortunately, are not capable of making that abstraction and remain trapped in their own prejudiced thoughts. Locally, I have witnessed some chilling consequences of prejudice allowed to unleash itself unfettered; malicious labels like calling Chinese-Indonesians pigs, or calling for the mass murders of the infidels (non-Muslims, that is).

Globally, we have also seen similar trends being imposed on immigrants and Muslims. Whoever happens to be a minority and a less privileged member of a given society at any time must swallow the bitter pill of structural violence in the form of blatant discrimination.

This phenomenon is obvious enough when you look at European countries such as France and the Netherlands with their hateful ultra-right leaders, such as Marine le Pen and Geert Wilders, respectively. The United States has Donald Trump. Recently, certain pressure groups in Indonesia are also pushing for the curtailment of political and economic rights of the Chinese-Indonesian community.

Consequences of racist and religious-based hate narratives go beyond lip service. The Southern Poverty Law Center in the United States, for example, recorded 867 cases of hateful harassment or intimidation in the US in the 10 days after the Nov. 8, 2016, election, as quoted by CNN.

In Indonesia, we have witnessed how centuries of politically motivated prejudice against Chinese-Indonesians play itself out in the ugliest form possible during the May 1998 riots.

Nations need the myth of shared identity and history to maintain unity. This shared identity unavoidably morphs itself into very narrow ethnic-and religious-based nationalism, resulting in certain groups becoming second-class citizens.

Writer Francis Fukuyama suggests in his 2014 book Political Order and Political Decay: From the Industrial Revolution to the Globalization of Democracy that instead of imposing a race-and religious-based identity onto a diverse society, politicians should instead endeavor to create a narrative built around shared history and common cultural ground among people of different backgrounds to maintain unity.

This, unfortunately, is tricky to implement, because the vague definitions of shared history and common cultural ground could easily be manipulated into yet another form of exclusivist attitude, resulting in yet other groups of people becoming second-class citizens.

Maintaining harmony in a diverse world delineated by national, racial and religious borders is like walking on a tightrope. It will be hard for the average persons to get out of their boxes, or not to box people in based on social categories. What should the minority do amid this repressive environment? Do we want to remain bitter and stay the victim?

I find that in the end, the only thing we can do to mitigate this situation is by altering the way we want to perceive ourselves and other people, which dictates how we will treat ourselves and others. We do not have to succumb to the myopic labels that our societies have attached to us.

This notion of transcending identities has been explored mainly by multiracial writers such as Amin Maalouf, with his Egypt-Lebanese and Christian-Catholic background. In his 1999 memoir Out of Place, Palestinian-American writer Edward Said also talked about defying definitions.

I have also gone through this process recently. Being confused by my identity as a Batak-Chinese-Manadonese-Minang person with a curiously a strong Javanese accent, I often find my Chineseness to be quite salient and feel fearful of being singled out whenever I walk in rural areas.

I felt some relief when I went to India recently for the first India-ASEAN youth summit, meeting with delegates from India and 10 ASEAN countries. I had no problem being a stranger, because at that time, nobody seemed to care I was Chinese, unlike the situation I often have to face in Indonesia.

Some participants thought that I come from Thailand or the Philippines. Alternately, I also thought that someone I met at the summit came from Vietnam when in fact, he is from the Philippines. Here, boundaries begin to blur.

The experience, interacting with people from various ASEAN countries who pretty much share the same range of skin color tones, I was finally able to transcend my ethnicity and discover a common thread among us that is our humanity.

I began to make peace with the racism I experienced in Indonesia. I hope that once I am able to make peace with myself, I can finally make peace with the world outside and vow to be a good global citizen who treats myself and others respectfully. Jai ho (let there be victory) for a peaceful human co-existence, where social justice and human dignity prevail.

I know this is utopia, which is a road to nowhere. However, this road to nowhere is the reason we humans keep walking in our effort to move civilization forward. Therefore, keep dreaming!
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 11:38 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2115fa9 2 City Bekasi,public-health,pneumonia Free

Bekasi Health Agency head Kusnanto Saidi has urged residents to protect themselves against infections that could lead to pneumonia amid hot temperatures over the last month.

Children were often more susceptible to catching pneumonia owing to their weak metabolism, however that did not mean adults were safe, he said.

Were entering a transition period, so were prone to getting sick. Pneumonia can be transmitted through air and bad habits such as smoking, he said on Sunday, as quoted by wartakota.trinunnews.com.

Over 5,000 people in the city have contracted with the illness since 2016, according to the agencys data. Therefore, the agency urged officials of community health centers (Puskesmas) to promote early detection.

Many residents still dont know about pneumonia, so they consider it a common disease. While, actually it requires serious attention because it could cause death, he said.

Kusnanto said early symptoms of people infected with the pneumonia included having a cold, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and acute respiratory problems.

The agency head urged residents experiencing any symptoms to visit the nearest Puskesmas. (yon/wit)
Residents were displaced, but no one hurt, by a fire in a residential building in Sun Prairie early Monday.

At 2:16 a.m. Monday, Sun Prairie firefighters were dispatched to a call in the 1700 block of Pennsylvania Avenue. They found a fire in the ceiling on a second-floor bathroom, according to a release form the Sun Prairie Fire Department.

Firefighters evacuated all four units in the building, according the release.

Due to what the department described as an "aggressive attack" to remove parts of the ceiling, firefighters were able to contain the fire to a single unit.

Residents of the three unaffected units later were allowed to return to them.

Red Cross was contacted to assist the displaced residents.

The fire caused about $15,000 in damage, according to the release.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Joanna Chiu (Agence France-Presse) Beijing, China  Mon, September 18, 2017 15:27 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211e1ff 2 Business China,automotive Free

General Motors will recall more than 2.5 million vehicles in China over concerns about airbags made by troubled Japanese giant Takata, Chinese authorities said, dealing a blow to the US automaker in the world's largest car market.

GM and its joint venture partner Shanghai GM will start withdrawing vehicles fitted with the potentially faulty airbags beginning next month and will include Chevrolet and Buick cars, China's top consumer watchdog said.

They will replace the faulty airbags for free.

Takata has recalled about 100 million airbags produced for some of the world's largest automakers, including about 70 million in the US, because of the risk that they could improperly inflate and rupture, potentially firing deadly shrapnel at the occupants.

The defect has been linked to 16 deaths and scores of injuries globally, and the issue has led to the biggest car recall in history.

In China, the recalls involve 37 manufacturers and more than 20 million vehicles, of which 24 carmakers had recalled 10.59 million units by the end of June, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said Friday.

Last week, the watchdog announced that German carmaker Volkswagen and its joint ventures will recall 4.86 million vehicles in China over the airbag issue.

Of the vehicles being recalled, the vast majority were made in Chinese factories.

China is a crucial market for leading international carmakers, where they must operate as joint ventures with local partners.

GM has a long-standing presence in the country, where last year it sold 3.87 million vehicles making it the second-largest foreign manufacturer in the country, behind Volkswagen.

Japanese auto parts giant Takata in February pleaded guilty to fraud for hiding the defect, and paid a $1 billion fine.

The company filed for bankruptcy in June.

Earlier this month, Takata's largest client, Honda, reached a $605 million settlement in a lawsuit over defective airbags in millions of cars on American roads.

Honda joined Nissan, Toyota, BMW, Mazda and Subaru in agreeing a deal to settle a lawsuit, replace the defective airbags from now-bankrupt Takata, and to compensate car owners.

Topics : China automotive
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 13:03 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2117fbb 4 Business Jakarta-Surabaya-medium-speed-railway,Budi-Karya-Sumadi,railway-crosings Free

The government will close about 1,000 railway crossings from Jakarta to Surabaya to make way for the medium-speed rail project connecting Jakarta with Surabaya, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi has said.

The project will use existing railway tracks.

The project will use the existing rail tracks. This means we must eliminate some of the railway crossings, said Budi over the weekend as reported by kompas.com.

To eliminate the railway crossings to help trains move along with fewer barriers, the government will construct overpasses or underpasses, the minister added.

The project also involves the repair of railway track, Budi said. He added that the project would be run by the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry.

Previously, the government considered developing new tracks for the link.

Budi said the government finally decided to use the existing tracks after considering the cost of the project.

Based on our calculations, the project will cost Rp 80 trillion [US$6.04 billion], he said, adding that diesel-technology locomotives will pull the trains instead of electric ones as planned before.

The speed is set to reach 160 kilometers per hour. Once completed, passengers will be able to reach Surabaya from Jakarta in five hours. (bbn)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Bambang Muryanto and Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta/Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 15:40 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211f9cc 1 National 1965-mass-killing,discussion,LBH-Jakarta Free

Thirty pro-democracy groups in Yogyakarta have urged the National Police to take action against officers that broke up a public discussion on the 1965 communist purge at the Jakarta Legal Aid Institute (LBH Jakarta) in Central Jakarta.

Last Saturday, the police blocked an event that was attended by a group of scholars, activists, victims and family of victims of the 1965 communist purge, arguing that the discussion did not have a permit.

We condemned the action. The police officers broke up the event, broke into the place with force and damaged the building. They violated the law," said LBH Yogyakarta director Hamzal Wahyudin in a joint press conference held on Monday in Yogyakarta.

The activists said the police's measures showed democracy in the country had taken a step back.

Hamzal further said holding the 1965-1966 seminar was the right of civilians, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

On the same occasion, Damairia Pakpahan of Protection Desk Indonesia said the move by the police to break up the discussion showed the police lacked understanding of human rights.

It also showed inconsistency within the government of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, she added.

Hence, the activists urged Jokowi to be consistent in his programs, particularly in resolving human rights violations, including those against the victims of the 1965 tragedy.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 16:18 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2123915 1 Business skytrain,soekarno-hatta-airport,operation Free

Soekarno-Hatta International Airports skytrain will be operated by crew for the first six months, after which it will operate unmanned.

People movers everywhere use drivers in the first six to eight months of operations. It is a standard operating procedure, said state-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Putra II (AP II) president director Muhammad Awaluddin in Jakarta on Sunday as reported by kompas.com, during the launch of skytrain on Sunday.

As an initial step, the skytrain will connect Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 of the airport, with an additional connection in December to Terminal 1 when all three sets of skytrains will be operational.

State-owned PT LEN Industri finished building the skytrains in 14 months, quicker than the planned 17 months.

State-Owned Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno said her side was closely monitoring LEN Industri and state-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya, which were tasked with manufacturing the rolling stocks and constructing infrastructure, respectively.

Awaluddin said his company invested Rp 950 billion (US$71.76 million) for the skytrain project -- Rp 530 billion for the manufacturing of rolling stocks by PT LEN in cooperation with Woojin of South Korea and Rp 420 billion for the construction of infrastructure. (bbn)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 08:59 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2108193 1 City communism,PKI,YLBHI,anti-communist,YLBHI-protest Free

Hundreds of anti-communists besieged the office of the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI) on Sunday night, demanding that it dismiss a gathering inside the office.

Believing that the gathering was related to the violence of 1965, they started gathering at the office at around 9:30 p.m., urging officials to dismiss an event inside the office, accusing the events organizers of being members of the disbanded Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

On Saturday, a group of scholars, activists, victims and family of victims of the 1965 convulsion intended to hold a discussion, but were eventually dismissed by the police, who argued that the event did not have a permit.

A group of anti-communists staged a rally in front of the office at the time.

On Sunday night they returned to the office upon hearing that a gathering was being held there.

Tensions escalated when they tried to get inside the office. About 200 people had gathered inside the building for a music event.

The protesters shouted: "Lies!" "Long live TNI" and "Dismiss the PKI" when Central Jakarta Police chief and a representative from the military assured them that there was no PKI activity going on inside the building.

The police were guarding the building but the protesters refused to leave.

The crowd also sang Indonesia Raya, the national anthem, after representatives gave speeches.

A clash broke out around 1:22 a.m., Monday morning, when the protesters started to push against police officers. They threw bottles and rocks, injuring several officers.

"When the chaos broke out, we were meeting to evacuate. We prioritized those who were sick," Usman Hamid from Amnesty International Indonesia told reporters.

Everyone inside the YLBHI office finally evacuated at 2:16 a.m. (ecn/dis/rdi)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 11:03 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2114bcd 4 Business bank-indonesia,e-money,YLKI,top-up-costs,comments Free

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has criticized Bank Indonesia for its plan to issue a regulation requiring consumers to shoulder the top-up costs for e-money. The YLKI believes the regulation will hinder the development of a cashless society.

YLKI chairman Tulus Abadi said over the weekend that the emergence of non-cash transactions was a good thing and would make transactions more efficient and secure.

A cashless society is in line with the emergence of the digital economy. But if BI requires consumers to shoulder the top-up costs, it will be counterproductive, Tulus said as reported by kontan.com.

He said the banking sector would benefit from the emergence of e-money because they already received money from consumers before transactions. Therefore, he argues that banks should be responsible for the top-up costs.

It is not fair for the consumers if they face disincentives in the form of paying the top-up costs, he said.

Previously BI Governor Agus Matowardojo said the central bank would issue a regulation later this month that would, among other things, regulate e-money transactions.

The e-money top-up costs will not burden consumers too much, Agus said, adding that the regulation was still being finalized.

He said banks had already borne the investment costs to develop and maintain e-money infrastructure, and so should not be burdened again with top-up costs. (bbn)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Moses Ompusunggu (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017

Indonesia may have just averted another major land and forest fire disaster this year, but experts have said there were many things to be done to keep the environmental disaster at bay.

The country was still vulnerable to the possibility of a massive forest fire if the government failed to address issues such as permit misuse in forest areas, Greenpeace Indonesia head Leonard Simanjuntak said recently.

Poor land management would pave the way for illegal exploitation of land, encouraging the locals to use the slash and burn method to clear it.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 14:05 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211b11d 1 City YLBHI,YLBHI-protest,mob-violence,1965-mass-killing Free

Jakarta Police chief Insp. Gen. Idham Azis says the police have arrested five people on assault and battery charges following a violent mob riot at the office of the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI) on Sunday night.

We will process the case according to the law. They are charged with Article 170 [of the Criminal Code on battery and assault], he told reporters Monday morning after the police had dispersed the mob.

Idham explained that at around 11 p.m., the mob attempted to enter the office, which they falsely claimed was holding a discussion on the 1965 communist purge attended by members of the now-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

The YLBHI held a discussion on the 1965 mass killings on Saturday. The discussion was disbanded by the police. But on Sunday, activists, artists and survivors of the 1965 purge organized an event to protest the polices action.

Our appeal [to the mob on Sunday night] was ignored and they started to throw rocks at 1:30 p.m., Idham said, adding that five officers were wounded during the riot. At 2 p.m., the police forced the mob to disperse.

Idham said he had deployed around 1,000 officers to control the situation. It is estimated that around 2,000 people from different organizations took part in the protest. (dis/ecn/rdi/ary)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Farida Susanty (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017

The tourist industry is starting to reap the benefits of the governments measures as half-year tourism data shows a significant jump in foreigner visits, paving the way for the government to reach its year-end target.

The government aims to welcome 15 million foreign tourists in 2017. It raked up 7.81 million visitors from January to July, a 23.53 percent increase from that of the same period in 2016, according to Central Statistics Agency (BPS) data.

Travel booking firm Dwidayatour commercial vice president Hendriyapto confirmed stronger growth in the inbound tourism segment this year compared to outbound tourism, owing to the governments efforts to promote the country and build infrastructure.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Marguerite Afra Sapiie (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18 2017

The Indonesian Military (TNI) will soon be able to deploy its forces to combat terrorists without having to secure approval from the President or the House of Representatives, government officials and lawmakers have agreed.

The agreement, which will be stipulated in the revision to the 2003 Terrorism Law, comes amid debates surrounding the ideal extent of the militarys role in counterterrorism operations.

Human rights activists have asserted that the TNIs role should be limited and the National Police should retain the leading role, as terrorism is a crime that should be handled by the latter.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18 2017

To prevent hospital glitches, Jakarta Governor Djarot Syaiful Hidayat plans to issue a regulation that requires private hospitals to partner with the Health Care and Social Security Agency (BPJS Kesehatan).

During an event held to commemorate International Hepatitis Day in Menteng Park, Central Jakarta, on Saturday, Djarot highlighted the importance of such a regulation.

I have asked the Jakarta Health Agency head to issue the regulation, which will probably take two to three weeks to be completed. I will try to issue it before I finish my tenure, he said, as quoted by wartakota.tribunnews.com.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 18:21 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2129782 1 City green-lane,tree,green-space,violation Free

The Jakarta Forestry Agency has recorded that, this year, the city accumulated Rp 120 million (US$9,055) in fines slapped against residents found illegally cutting down trees along the capital's green lanes.

"The total fines were Rp 120 million," the agencys community development and law enforcement division head, Henri Perez, said on Monday as quoted by kompas.com.

He said the fines were collected from seven Jakarta residents in six separate cases of illegal tree-cutting. Three of the cases were in East Jakarta, two cases were in South Jakarta and one was in West Jakarta.

Henri said that the most recent case involved Romadhon Andi Widodo, an East Jakarta resident who was fined for cutting down two trees in front of his shop on Jl. Lubang Buaya in Cipayung.

The Central Jakarta District Court ruled last Friday that he had violated a 2007 regional regulation on public order by cutting down the trees, which were located on a green lane, and ordered him to pay Rp 25 million in fines. (fac)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 14:02 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211a6e3 1 City #LBH,#PKI,#1965Tragedy,#protest Free

The Jakarta Police have taken into custody 22 people following a mob protest that turned violent in front of the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI) early on Monday.

We have apprehended 22 people. They are being questioned at the Central Jakarta Police headquarters, Jakarta Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Argo Yuwono said on Monday.

The 22 people are suspected of being involved in the violent protest. Rocks were thrown by protesters, injuring some police officers.

Hundreds of people besieged the YLBHI office in Central Jakarta, believing that a gathering inside the office was associated with the now-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

They started to gather outside the office at around 9:30 p.m., urging officials to dismiss the event.

Muhammad Isnur from the YLBHI said the event had nothing to do with the PKI and was specifically focused on the current state of the country's democracy.

"We have been frequently accused of facilitating the PKI and that is incorrect," Isnur said as quoted by kompas.com.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Nurul Fitri Ramadhani and Margareth Aritonang (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 16:22 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2124237 1 Politics YLBHI-protest,mob-violence,communism,PKI,Lawmakers Free

Several lawmakers are calling for a total ban on discussion pertaining to the 1965 communist purge to prevent friction in society following a mob attack on the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI) in Jakarta on Monday morning.

Teuku Taufiqulhadi, a lawmaker from the NasDem Party, has pinned the blame on human rights activists for the mob attack, saying the activists had acted insensitive by initiating a public gathering on Sunday to protest the polices decision to block a discussion on the 1965 purge at YLBHI a day earlier.

The human rights activists insistence to hold the gathering provoked members of the public to commit violence, Taufiqulhadi told the press on Monday.

The lawmaker from House of Representatives Commission III overseeing law and human rights said he supported the initiative to end unresolved matters from the countrys dark past. But we must know the limit to how far we must to reveal what happened then, he added.

A group of people claiming to be anticommunists besieged the YLBHI early on Monday over false accusations that the gathering held inside the building on Sunday was being attended by supporters of the now defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

Tension escalated as the mob demanded to go inside, forcing the police to evacuate the participants to the nearby National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) before they could finally return home.

Syarief Hasan of the Democratic Party said police should have broken up the gathering in the first place to maintain security.

Breaking up the gathering, or other communism-themed gatherings, doesnt mean the government has violated democracy, Syarief said. It is necessary to avoid tension that might put anyone in danger.

The lawmaker stressed, Communism is banned here. Thus the government must uphold that policy. (ary)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Ni Komang Erviani (The Jakarta Post) Denpasar  Mon, September 18, 2017 12:41 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2117c37 1 National murder,bali,Jimbaran,JapaneseCouple,murder-case Free

The Bali Police claim to have arrested a man in connection with the murder of a Japanese couple, Norio Matsuba, 76, and his wife, Hiroko Matsuba, 73, in Jimbaran.

"The suspect is I Putu A, 25. He was arrested on Monday at around 3 a.m.," Bali Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Hengky Widjaja said on Monday.

The police say the suspect is still undergoing interrogation, but a preliminary conclusion has been reached that the man robbed the couple before killing them.

"The suspect needed money to pay off his debts," Hengky aid.

Norio and Hiroko were found dead at their rental house in the Puri Gading housing complex in Jimbaran, Bali, on Sept. 4. The bodies had been burned.

The suspect claimed he burned the victims and some parts of the house in order to get rid of evidence. (ary)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Glen Carey (Agence France-Presse) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia  Mon, September 18, 2017 17:30 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a212751b 2 Business Transportation,infrastructure,Saudi-Arabia,railway,Trade,Jeddah Free

Saudi Arabia plans to seek bidders for the construction of a 1,000-mile (1,600-kilometer) railroad linking the Red Sea with the Persian Gulf as early as the end of this year, signaling the go ahead for a long-delayed project seen as vital to reducing the economys dependence on oil.

The so-called Land Bridge line will shave around three days off the current five-day journey time for shipping seaborne freight around the Saudi coast, while improving links to Riyadh, and Jeddah, the nations two biggest cities.

Contract tenders will be issued at the end of 2017 or early in 2018 following an encouraging response to an invitation for expressions of interest, Saudi Railway Chief Executive Officer Bashar Al Malik said in an interview.

Saudi Arabia first awarded contracts for a privately funded coast-to-coast line in 2008 in an effort to accelerate the transit of goods around a country a fifth the size of the US, but put the project on hold after financial terms couldnt be agreed. Its now moving ahead to implement the project after an encouraging response from the private sector, Al Malik said.

The cost of the Land Bridge line will depend on the exact route chosen and the location of the Red Sea terminus, with bidding for contracts likely to include local and international engineering companies and financial institutions, according to Al Malik, who has been CEO of Saudi Railway since March.

Saudi Arabia allocated 52 billion riyals ($14 billion) to infrastructure and transportation this year, up from 38 billion riyals in 2016, according to the Ministry of Finances 2017 budget report. The investment is aimed at advancing moves to wean the Arab worlds biggest economy off oil as part of the Vision 2030 plan led by the heir to the Saudi throne, Mohammed bin Salman.

A picture shows the construction site of the Saudi capital Riyadh's $22.5 billion metro system, on Aug. 26, 2015. The system, which will have six lines covering 176 kilometres (109 miles), supported by a bus network of 1,150 kilometres, is due to be completed by the end of 2018. Three foreign consortiums are building the metro, with France's Alstom, Canada's Bombardier and Germany's Siemens among the major participants. (Agence France -Presse/Ahmed Farwan)

Saudi Railway is separately targeting increased freight shipments on the countrys Northern Line, including minerals transported for Saudi Arabian Mining, also known as Maaden. Phosphate volumes should rise to 5 million tons this year from 4.4 million in 2016, while bauxite carriage may improve to 4 million tons from 3.3 million, Al Malik said.

The railway company is evaluating its ability to boost capacity as Maaden and its partners Mosaic and Saudi Basic Industries expand production at Waad al-Shamal in the far north of the country, he said.

Saudi Railway is also looking at expanding rail links to better serve energy giant Saudi Arabian Oil Co., or Aramco. which has bulk plants in Tabuk, Turaif and the Al Jouf region close to the Jordanian border for the distribution of gasoline, diesel fuel and other liquid products.

Other opportunities for increased freight haulage center on agricultural production in the Busaita area of Al Jouf which hasnt yet utilized rail infrastructure, Al Malik said. The zone has some of Saudi Arabias largest farms, including Al Jouf Agricultural Developments 60,000 hectares of wheat, barley, maize and other crops.
National Economic and Industry Committee (KEIN) member Aries Muftie (right), Wirausaha Maju Cooperatives supervisory council chairman Sudhamek AWS (second right) and Triputra Group chairman Theodore P. Rachmat (third right) talk to a hydroponics entrepreneur during the 1,000 Thriving-Entrepreneurs Expo and Gathering in Jakarta, on Saturday. Sudhamek recently won the Legacy Award at the ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) in Manila for his role as an entrepreneur who positively impacts the community. (JP/Dhoni Setiawan)(KEIN) member Aries Muftie (right), Wirausaha Maju Cooperatives supervisory council chairman Sudhamek AWS (second right) and Triputra Group chairman Theodore P. Rachmat (third right) talk to a hydroponics entrepreneur during the 1,000 Thriving-Entrepreneurs Expo and Gathering in Jakarta, on Saturday. Sudhamek recently won the Legacy Award at the ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) in Manila for his role as an entrepreneur who positively impacts the community. (JP/Dhoni Setiawan)
Who says Japan, as a tourist destination, is expensive, remote and difficult to visit? Yes, it was in the past but not anymore. Thanks to a weaker yen, currently US$1 is equal to 110.95 yen, Japan is no longer a highly expensive place to travel. Japans current much more relaxed visa regime and improved tourism infrastructure are attracting millions of foreign tourists, especially from East Asia, Southeast Asia and even the United States.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 16:09 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2122281 2 News tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,bali Free

Nusa Dua, Bali recently welcomed 250 participants of International Textile Manufacture Federation (ITMF) from 29 different countries.

They were in Bali from September 14 -16, not a single participant issued a complaint, everybody was happy because they got to explore Tanah Lot, Ubud and Uluwatu after the meeting, explained Indonesia textile association executive secretary boards of directors, E.G Ismy.

The group visited Tanah Lot on their first day in Bali. Tanah Lot was once visited by the vice president of India Muhammad Hamid Ansyar, Turkish and Korean celebrities and contestants of Miss World 2012 and 2013.

Tanah Lot is very cool, the places arrangement emphasizes on the religious value mixed with the beautiful nature, said ITMF president, Jaswinder Bedi.

Read also: Learning Akha hill tribes way of living in Pha Mee village

Tanah Lot is one of the leading tourist destinations in Bali after Kuta Beach, as it has a breathtaking panoramic view especially during sunset.

Following the visit to Tanah Lot, the group then went Ubud where they saw rice terraces, local handicrafts, art galleries and visited the Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud.

The Sacred Monkey Forest is really special, former Manchester United player Luis Nani once visited this place, so did Hollywood celebrities Paris Hilton and Julia Roberts. This is a wonderful experience for the ITMF delegates, said tourism ministry's Archipelago Tourism Marketing Development deputy, Esthy Reko Astuti.

The last stop was Uluwatu where they witnessed the performance of Kecak traditional dance at Pura Uluwatu during sunset. (asw)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 14:09 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211b17a 2 News Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,Semarang,old-town Free

Those who are longing for cuisine from the past such as Mini Socijsbrood, Amandel en bitterballen or Oma Oens tomato soup, also known as Heldere tomatensoep met balletjes should definitely come to Old Town Festival 2017 in Semarang,

This two-day event will run for the sixth time in Semarang from September 23 to 24 at Old Town Retensi Tawang area. This year, the theme is Sepanjang Jalan Kenangan (Down the Memory Lane).

The event is created by the city administrations together with Oens Semarang Foundation (OSF), AMBO as the stakeholder of Old Town, Vrienden Van Kota Lama, Indonesian expats in the Netherlands, local communities and residents.

The entrance ticket is priced at Rp. 200,000 per person ($15.10).

Read also: The return of Semarangs Old Town

The entry fee is certainly worth the experience as the festival will spoil visitors with old-school delicacies such as garnalensalade-cocktail (shrimp salad cocktail), kip met champignonsaus, aardappels en groenten (chicken steak with champignon sauce and served with French fries and vegetables) and Toko Oens legendary menu namely fried rice, tutti-frutti ice cream, met vruchten en kruimels, koffie and thee met koekjes.

The festivals main event is the gala dinner that will also serve as the opening event of the festivities.

The second day is a car-free day at Old Town, there will be performances of aerobic, zumba and line dances at the closing ceremony, said Semarang tourism department head, Partono.

Prior to that, there will be a talk show with the topic 'Old Town and Us' at 3 p.m. in Samudra Indonesia building, featuring Indonesian Charm Generation (GenPI) Semarang chapter, Semarang Instagram community and Explore Semarang. The talk show is free of charge.

Read also: A guide to visiting Semarang

By the time the clock hits 7 p.m. there will be a fashion show and dance on the street performance by House of Pinky and LPTB Susan Budihardjo who will perform a collaboration of Dutch and Javanese dances before guests from the Netherlands.

Old Town Festival also offers other interesting activities such as Old Town walking tour, photo rally and Instagram competition.

Tourism minister Arief Yahya said he is very happy with Semarang which is starting to host plenty of creative events to attract tourists.

This is really great, Semarang is already included in the tentative list by the UNESCO, this list consists of nominees that have the potential to become a World Heritage. Through creative events, Semarang will catch the worlds attention, Arief said. (asw)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 13:07 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211872e 2 News Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,surakarta,Surakarta-sultanate Free

The area of Puro Mangkunegaran Palace in Surakarta was adorned with beautiful umbrellas for the three-day Indonesian Umbrella Festival (FPI) 2017 that kicked off on Sept. 15.

The umbrellas were particularly attractive due to their various patterns, such as knitted, painted, rattan, lurik and batik.

The courtyard was immediately turned into a photo spot while the corner areas were occupied by umbrella artisans who showcased their skills in crafting traditional umbrellas.

Read also: Kingkong and Love hills, two best sunrise spots at Mount Bromo

One of the visitors, 22-year-old Rahma, visited the festival together with her three friends. This place is amazing, especially at night time with all the lights; very pretty, she said.

This event aims to promote umbrella villages across Surakarta as they play important part in Indonesian culture, said the festival's committee head Heru Mataya. (kes)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin (Pesona Indonesia) Jakarta  Mon, September 18, 2017 15:04 1883 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a211df31 2 News yogyakarta-tourism,Tourism-Ministry-Pesona-Indonesia,tourism-ministry-wonderful-Indonesia,Malioboro-street Free

One of Yogyakartas most popular destinations, Jl. Malioboro, is set to host the Malioboro Coffee Night on Oct. 2.

The event is part of a partnership between Yogyakarta Archipelago Coffee Lovers Community and Yogyakarta administration to commemorate two the city's 261st anniversary and International Coffee Day that fall on Oct. 7 and Oct. 1, respectively.

Themed "Coffee, Culture and Industry", the event will kick off at 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. and feature 40 participating tenants from Yogyakarta, Kulonprogo, Bandung, Jakarta, Cianjur, Aceh, Flores, Medan and Papua.

The main highlight of this event is kopi tubruk [literally means collision coffee]. It will highlight not only coffee shops, but also coffee farmers and the industry itself, said Yogyakarta Tourism Agency head Yunianto Dwi Sutono.

The strong coffee culture in Yogyakarta will attract coffee lovers from all over the world, especially since Malioboro serves joss coffee, which is a unique coffee drink where hot charcoals are plunged into the drink, said Tourism Minister Arief Yahya.

Read also: Five highlights of delightful Malioboro

The event also seeks to educate visitors several techniques of coffee making that they can do at home.

Visitors can also expect to be entertained by street music performances and exhibitions of cartoon artworks and sculptures, as well as visit a photobooth presented by Cafe 80 Bocor Alus.

As part of the citys anniversary, Yogyakarta will also host Sapa Jogja Street Sculpture on Oct. 3 where art installations will be showcased in the Kotabaru area.

A total of 17 tourist villages will take part in Grebeg Pasar event at the XT Square for one full day on Oct. 5, said Yunanto.

Yogyakarta is said to also invite 25 mayors who are members of Indonesian City Administrations Association to join Jogja Fam Trip where they will meet with travel agents.

For the finale, the event will host Wayang Jogja Night Carnival on Oct. 7, which will start at 6 p.m. and be paraded across Yogyakartas street arts from Jl. Sudirman to Kleringan Yogya, added Yunianto. (kes)
Reformer Brian Kavanagh has locked up the support he needs to get the Democratic nomination for a vacant state Senate seat after the Brooklyn party boss supported him in a back-room deal. [Daily News]

The Manhattan party boss involved in hand picking Squadrons replacement, Keith Wright, was re-elected over the weekend. Questions have been raised about Wrights work as a lobbyist. [New York Post]

Theres a protest of the Brooklyn Democratic Party this morning, which chose not to hold a vote to pick Squadrons successor. [@newkingsdems Twitter]

Why do party bosses rather than the people pick elected officials? For decades, New York (legislative) seats have traded hands this way in what amounts to one of the last, most powerful vestiges of Tammany Hall-style politics in the state. [New York Times]

A venerable Hells Kitchen political club goes down to defeat, while upstarts on the Lower East Side capitalized on changing neighborhood demographics and grass-roots activism to overtake the Truman Democratic Club, the power base of former Assemblyman Sheldon Silver. [New York Times]

More construction is ahead on the Manhattan Bridge beginning next summer. [DNAinfo]

Condos on the former site of the neighborhoods last gas station will start at slightly over $1 million. [Curbed]

A city rule change requires developers to use inclusionary housing density bonuses on-site. [The Real Deal]

Jeremiah Moss/Griffin Hansbury lays out an agenda for the mayors inevitable second term: If Bill de Blasio continues to be mayor, he must make good on his original promise to reverse the citys crisis of inequality. [Daily News]

The Community Board 3 committee that evaluates liquor permits will meet this evening at The Public Hotel. Among the applications to be considered: a barbecue restaurant on Grand Street and a proposal from the Zabar clan for a spot across from Columbus Park in Chinatown. [CB3]

More press for Factory Tamal. [Channel 7]
Heres the latest on the battle for Daniel Squadrons former 26th Senate District seat.

Lower East Side District Leader Paul Newell was victorious this afternoon in capturing 72% of the weighted vote from the Manhattan Democratic Committee. His main rival, State Assemblyman Brian Kavanagh, came in second with nearly 28%. But Kavanagh appears to have the upper hand because he has the support of party bosses in Brooklyn, and the backing of the statewide Democratic Party establishment.

Todays vote of local members of the County Committee was merely an advisory opinion. The real decision will be made tomorrow by the heads of the Democratic Party in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Over the weekend, Brooklyn Democratic Leader Frank Seddio announced his support for Kavanagh. After todays vote, Governor Cuomo, Mayor de Blasio, former Sen. Squadron and many others backed Kavanagh, as well. Lower Manhattan Assembly member Yuh-Line Niou announced her support for Kavanagh this morning.

In contrast to Manhattan, where a vote was held, Brooklyn Democrats werent given an opportunity to take part in choosing the nominee in the 26th Senate District. Seddio acted unilaterally.

After the vote, Newell told us, We obviously won the room overwhelmingly. These were the only people who got to vote. Legally (Manhattan Democratic party boss) Keith Wright has the option to go with Kavanagh or anyone else. No Manhattan leader has gone against the vote of a county committee since Carmine DeSapio under Tammany Hall. I think Keith Wright will do the right thing and not allow the Brooklyn closed system to outweigh what was a clear decision by the grassroots activists in Manhattan.

Kavanagh, however, said, We have 53% of the vote for the entire Senate district (Manhattan + Brooklyn) and we believe that is enough to be the Democratic nominee in November. Asked about concerns that the process is undemocratic, Kavanagh explained, The gold standard for a party choosing its nominee is a primary. Unfortunately, in this case, there was not sufficient time to do a primary Every party has its rules. The Democratic Party has rules on the books and they followed those rules. Today we have the result and Im very proud to say Im the Democratic nominee.

A third candidate, Alan Gerson, withdrew from the contest during todays meeting. A total of 97 people voted today, a third of the Manhattan County Committee in the 26th Senate District.

The party must submit its nominee to the Board of Elections on Tuesday.

Well have more regarding todays developments Monday on The Lo-Down.
. To do so, first type the original number into the text box. Then click on the "Scientific Notation" option located at the top of the floating window. Finally, click on the "Standard" button found beneath the text box to display your result. This program is useful for scientists and engineers working with decimal-based numbers. It provides easy access to those who need to convert those numbers into more compact forms without having to do heavy math calculations first.

Scientific notation is a way to express very large or very small numbers. It is used in physics, chemistry and other fields where large numbers are common. Those numbers are written as a power of 10 followed by a number with an exponent. For example, 1,000,000 (one million) is written as 1  103. The exponent shows how many zeros are after the first digit. For example, 1,000,001 is written as 1  102. Scientific notation is a useful tool for making calculations easier. You can use it to write down very big or very small numbers in one step instead of writing out both the large and small numbers separately. You can also use it to express large or small numbers in terms of other units like centimeters or millimeters.

Scientific notation solver is an online tool that can be used to convert any number into scientific notation. Simply enter any number to the left of the decimal point and it will automatically convert it into a scientific notation equivalent. This web tool can be very helpful when you need to convert a large number into scientific notation. However, please note that this online tool can only convert numbers that are in scientific format. For example, it cannot convert a non-scientific number like "1,085" into a scientific notation equivalent. It is also important to keep in mind that this web tool only works when converting numbers from one particular format to another. For example, if you want to change a non-scientific number like "1,085" into standard format, then you will have to use another online tool like NumberFormatting.com.
Facebook is to review its advertising targeting system after it was revealed ads could be directed at those who expressed hateful opinions on the site.

An investigation by ProPublica found that advertisers on the social network could target adverts at people who had identified themselves as hating Jews on their profiles.

(Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Facebook said the offensive categories, which also included other anti-Semitic references, had been automatically created based on user profiles, and were removed immediately once discovered.

As people fill in their education or employer on their profile, we have found a small percentage of people who have entered offensive responses, in violation of our policies, Facebook said in a statement.

ProPublica surfaced that these offensive education and employer fields were showing up in our ads interface as targetable audiences for campaigns. We immediately removed them. Given that the number of people in these segments was incredibly low, an extremely small number of people were targeted in these campaigns.

The social media giant said it would continue working to improve its processes and was restricting parts of its ad targeting fields while a review took place.

(Lauren Hurley/PA)

The firm also said no one appeared to have used the categories before they were reported.

Keeping our community safe is critical to our mission. And to help ensure that targeting is not used for discriminatory purposes, we are removing these self-reported targeting fields until we have the right processes in place to help prevent this issue, the company said.

We want Facebook to be a safe place for people and businesses, and well continue to do everything we can to keep hate off Facebook.

Facebook is not the first online giant to be hit with problems regarding its advertising network.

(Yui Mok/PA)

Earlier this year YouTube was criticised by the Government and abandoned by several high-profile advertisers after adverts for big-name brands and taxpayer-funded government projects appeared alongside extremist videos on the platform.

The Google-owned company and social media giants such as Facebook and Twitter have been warned by the Government they must do more to moderate their platforms for hateful content.

Facebook has pledged to hire 3,000 more people to review such content on the site.
Brazilian authorities are currently investigating reports of a massacre of approximately 10 people from an uncontacted Amazon tribe by illegal gold miners.

The killings are said to have taken place in Javari Valley and were allegedly carried out by men working for gold prospectors who dredge illegally in the areas rivers.

The members of the isolated group were gathering eggs along the river in a remote part of the Amazon when they ran into the gold miners.

Following this, Brazilian federal prosecutors have begun an investigation and have found evidence that attacks of this kind against endangered indigenous groups are on the rise in the country.

Brazilian agency on indigenous affairs, Funai, has lodged a complaint with the prosecutors office in Amazonas after the gold miners in question were overheard bragging about the brutal killings in a bar. They provided evidence in the form of a hand-carved paddle they had taken from the tribe.

It was crude bar talk said Funais coordinator for uncontacted and recently contacted tribes, Leila Silvia Burger Sotto-Maior. They even bragged about cutting up the bodies and throwing them in the river.

The miners claimed that they had to kill them or be killed.

The killings were reported to have taken place some time last month. The indigenous affairs bureau has been conducting several initial interviews in the area and have taken the case to the police.

The prosecutor in charge, Pablo Luz de Beltrand confirmed that the investigation has begun but could not discuss details of the case while it was still underway.

We are following up, but the territories are big and access is limited, Mr. Beltrand said. These tribes are uncontacted, even Funai has only sporadic information about them. So its difficult work that requires all government departments working together.

Mr Beltrand confirmed that this was the second episode of its kind he was investigating this year. The first reported incident against uncontacted indigenous people in the area had occurred in February, and is still currently open.

It was the first time that wed had this kind of case in this region - its not something that was happening before.

Global indigenous rights group, Survival International has warned that given the small sizes of the uncontacted Amazon tribes, this latest episode could mean that a significant percentage of a remote ethnic group was wiped out.

If the investigation confirms the reports, it will be yet another genocidal massacre resulting directly from the Brazilian governments failure to protect isolated tribes, something that is guaranteed in the Constitution, said Sarah Shenker, a senior campaigner with the rights group.

Under Brazils current president Michel Temer, funding towards indigenous affairs has been cut. Over a quarter of bases that were used to monitor and protect isolated tribes have been closed and staffing numbers have been reduced at others.

The bases were put in place to prevent invasions by loggers and miners as well as a way of communicating with recently contacted tribes.

With a rise in land disputes in many remote regions in Brazil, indigenous groups are being targeted more and more by violence.

In some instances, the government and police are being blamed for the violence. The authorities are investigating one police raid in the Amazon region that ended with 10 people being killed - no officers were harmed.

Activists worry that Brazilian indigenous groups, especially the uncontacted tribes, are the most vulnerable groups during these times.

When their land is protected, they thrive, said Shenker. When their land is invaded, they can be wiped out.

Images courtesy of Iubasi and Neil Palmer.
In light of recent political, social, and economic international events we deserve to tune out the outside world and tune into the newest music releases, even if it is for an hour or so. The following playlist swings from one extreme to the next: from hazy and intimate musical pieces all the way to the end of the spectrum into deep and dark electronic tracks. Enjoy your escape from the world and make it count.With their newest track, the Brooklyn band has definitely transcended the feeling of a surreal Sunday morning in a poorly sunlit dusty mezzanine. The combination of shoe-gaze and psychedelic pop even further enhances the pleasantly distorted vocals and somehow casts a hue of visceral intimacy into the musical piece. Staring off as a rather mild indie anthem, as the track advances the soundscape plunges into a tense, yet contained haze, consisting of crisp guitar and vibrant drums.This charming track is truly a multifaceted ode for the all-too classical and youthful romantic disappointments. However, Banfi present the narrative of a lost beautiful girl in such a gentle and delicately tasteful way that its almost impossible not to be moved. The video clip is worth mentioning if only for its simplistic and overpowering softness in terms of composition and color. June is coming close to reflecting the essence of youthful melancholic despair.After all the delicacy of the previous two tracks, its time for a deeper, rather mysterious sound, which is wildly different in both style and intention. Cassy has been regarded, especially according to Resident Advisor, as a quite independent and sophisticated artist, and indeed she is. Her new track One builds up at just the right place without ever losing control. There is definitely a feminine touch to the sound, which is evident in the steady, but non-abrupt bass and echoey vocals of this classically techno track.This electronic track will definitely give you chills. While the French producer and artists Coucou Chloe previous tracks were characterized by emotion and intensity, this one has a diametrically opposite feel to it. The rather dark and alien music evokes cold calculative behavior and frightening strength. Even if you are not a fan of electronic music, I believe that any track that makes such an impression is worth a listen or even more. Flip U is strangely, but wonderfully addictive in which quality Coucou Chloe bears a resemblance to Trickys early work.The xx certainly know how to keep up with the contemporary dance music scene, which is evident in the new remix of On Hold. The original and characteristic melancholic intent of the groups style has almost faded away from the xxs musical pieces, but that doesnt necessarily mean that they have lost their charm. It seems that the band has simply evolved into a more balanced and intuitive stage of their careers, characterized by a heavily synthesized sound that now seems to rather belong to big-scale beach parties than to cold and intimate London apartments.Probably my favorite track on the list, Components is sure to surprise you in at least a hundred ways. Covered from beginning to end with a deliciously thick layer of mystery, the track will definitely get under your skin with its booming and dignified ice-cold base and extraterrestrial vibraphone inclusions. The New York DJ and producer Will Shore however expresses a sadistic quality in his latest track. After an intense and pleasantly teasing build up, the track abruptly comes to an end leaving the listener high and dry. Components is an outstanding and idiosyncratic sound that will hopefully continue to exist in the future.Blood Orange (also known as Devonte Hynes) produced and released his first new track after last years hopeful LP, and it is certainly not disappointing. The track beautifully melts from an intense and sensual beginning into a transient and rather erratic ending. The piece has something for everyone - defined and velvety vocals, horn and flute composition by Jason Arce, and a mellow and disarming saxophone.The track slowly evolves from a guttural guitar sound into a spacey harmonious arrangement, spinning out at the end into an amiable chaos. The enigmatic track discreetly revolves around the gravitational force of the ghostly lyrics. The surreal monologue is perhaps meant for a deeply personal aspect of the artist or an unspecified audience. Either way, the lyrics are raw and calm without pretending to be anything more or less than they already are. And this is where the authentic beauty of the track truly lies: I had no feeling /I had no past/I was the arctic/ I was the vast, floating above an intuitive mash of frequencies.Reminiscent of 70s melancholic dance pop, this track is a breakthrough for the Philadelphia rock band. No one can comment better on their work than the artist himself, and Sweeney does it in a profoundly non-authoritative way: There is this druggy kind of relinquishment that many of us  myself included  have with our screens, and that in those moments, the sadness of this is reflected in the light those devices throw right back at us. The central theme of the song is quite similar to Jannifer Haleys play The Nether. The dance between a lenient guitar and melancholic saxophone highlights creates a post-modern sentimental ballad.
Sean Spicer at the Emmy Awards, screenshot (YouTube)

I thought Spicer cameo was great. Totally threw Trump under a bus. The timing in the Colbert monologue made it clear the joke was on Trump  Dave Cannella (@orlandodavec) September 18, 2017

Sean Spicer is officially on the blacklist by Trump for coming to the Emmys and I love it #EmmyAwards2017  Divya (@divyasa1) September 18, 2017

The degree to which Sean Spicer has faced no consequences is a glimpse into the post-Trump future.  Jamelle Bouie (@jbouie) September 18, 2017

Sean Spicer peddled lies and deception for months and he's on the Emmy stage. Breh. White folks got all the spades.  David Dennis Jr. (@DavidDTSS) September 18, 2017

Former White House Press Secretary and guy-who-dodges-questions-better-than-Neo-dodges-bullets Sean Spicer made a surprise appearance at the 2017 Emmy Awards, poking fun at his infamous statement about the size of Donald Trump's inauguration crowd. At the end of his opening monologue (which itself was full of shots at Trump), Emmys host Stephen Colbert invited Spicer on stage."Unfortunately, at this point, we have no way of knowing how big our audience is. I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know? (Sean Spicer comes out on podium).: This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person, and around the world. via GIPHY Spicer resigned as Press Secretary in July, following a six month tenure that was widely criticized and repeatedly mocked over innacurate, confusing and controversial statements. Colbert, whose show The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has seen a massive ratings surge since Donald Trump became president, was one of many who regularly made fun of Spicer.It's easy to see why Colbert would want Sean Spicer in his corner. Having the former Press Secretary publicly make fun of one of the first and most infamous lies he made while working for the White House is a big deal.It further undermines the credibility and authority of a president that's already widely regarded as one of the worst and most incompetent in history.At the same time, it's also easy to see why there's been a fair amount of outrage surrounding Spicer's Emmy appearance. Many feel the guy shouldn't be allowed to just laugh off everything he's done as Press Secretary and that the mainstream media shouldn't be so willing to let him off the hook for it. I believe everyone deserves a second chance, so I'm not against what Spicer and Colbert did. HOWEVER There should always be some kind of accountability or negative consequence for making bad decisions before you're given a chance to redeem yourself. Sean Spicer has never publicly condemned Trump or denounced his time as Press Secretary. He hasn't owned up to any of it.He resigned and then more or less disappeared from the public eye for a bit, right up until he showed up at the Emmys. He basically skipped the whole "taking responsibility for your actions" stage and jumped straight to "lighthearted self-deprecation". Yes, it matters that even Spicer himself now presents himself as a joke, a punchline, but it's also important to recognize that he is not just that. He is a man that made the decision to work for Donald Trump and for better or worse, and it was pretty much all worse, stood by that decision for six months.His Emmy appearance is undeniably a statement, but it's also a stunt. Conflating the two makes it seem like the whole thing was one big laugh, something that can be shrugged off and easily forgotten. If Sean Spicer wants to crack jokes and stay in the spotlight, he needs to admit, if not regret, then at least some level of personal fault and some responsibility. That also goes for anyone and everyone who's thinking about inviting him to their stage, giving him a platform to play the clown - you can't just give the guy a free pass.
Politics took centre stage at the Emmy Awards with Donald Trump being skewered from all angles.

During a series of political barbs, the US president was accused of making black people the most oppressed in America and called a lying, hypocritical bigot.

The Los Angeles ceremony on Sunday night saw victories for political satire Veep  created by Briton Armando Iannucci  and Saturday Night Live (SNL) which has enjoyed a resurgence with its attacks on Mr Trump.

Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Perhaps the hardest-hitting shot came in a speech by Emmy presenters Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda who took the stage alongside Dolly Parton, their co-star in Nine To Five.

Fonda described the conditions their characters faced in the 1980 film.

Without naming him, Tomlin added: And in 2017 we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.

Parton raised her eyebrows at the critique and remained silent.

Alec Baldwin won outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series for his regular portrayals of Mr Trump on SNL.

At long last Mr President here is your Emmy, he said of the Celebrity Apprentice-host-cum-president.

Collecting the lead actor in a comedy series award, Atlanta star Donald Glover said: I want to thank Trump for making black people number one on the most oppressed list  hes the reason Im probably up here.

Lead actress in a comedy series winner Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who won for Veep which also scored best comedy series, said a story-line about a fictional presidents dismissal had to be scrubbed from the up-coming final season.

We did have a story-line about an impeachment, but we abandoned that because we were worried that someone else might get to it first, she said.

Host Stephen Colbert was swift in tackling the president, who he called the biggest TV star of the last year for influencing shows plot-lines.

Mr Trumps fired press secretary Sean Spicer came on stage to joke this will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys  period, in a reference to the debacle over numbers attending the presidents inauguration speech.
With Game of Thrones out of the running for the first time in its history, the contest was a little wider this year, allowing other top-rated drama series to fight it out for the prize. Here's a rundown of all the big winners of the night and the shows that most impressed the voters.The biggest winner of the night, Bruce Miller's adaptation of The Handmaid's Tale won the accolades for Best Drama, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress and Best Drama Directing respectively. Based on Margaret Atwood's 1985 dystopian novel, the ten part series enraptured the world with it's bleak and startlingly relevant vision of the future. As well as winning the big prize for drama series, Elisabeth Moss was also recognised for her performance as Offred - the handmaid who narrates the horrors within the Republic of Gilead. Ann Dowd, who played the repugnant Aunt Lydia, also received plaudits for her role.

HBO's miniseries, Big Little Lies , also received a lot of attention at this year's Emmys, winning the gongs for Best Limited Series, Best Lead Actress, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress and Directing in a Limited Series. Based on the novel by Liane Moriarty, the series follows the apparently perfect lives of three mothers, who soon find themselves embroiled in murder. Nicole Kidman received her first ever Emmy for her portrayal of Celeste Wright, while Alexander Skarsgard and Laura Dern also received credit for their supporting roles.

Game of Thrones might have been out for the count, but the dominating champion of the comedy category, Veep , continued its winning streak. The series, created by the same minds behind The Thick Of It, offers a satirical spin on US politics.The series, which is set to come to an end with its seventh season, won the gong for Best Comedy Series. Veep's star, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss also broke an Emmy Record with her sixth consecutive win as Best Actress in a Comedy Series for her portrayal of Selina Meyer.

Charlie Brooker's dark sci-fi anthology series, Black Mirror , received the award for Best TV Movie for its terrific series three episode, San Junipero. The series, which beat off the likes of Sherlock and Dolly Parton for the Emmy, moved from Channel 4 to Netflix for it's third series. Starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Mackenzie Davis, the San Junipero episode is set in 1987 and follows the love story of two young women at a strange beach resort.

Donald Glover's comedy-drama series also received a lot of attention at this year's ceremony. The series follows the exploits of two cousins navigating their way through the Atlanta rap scene to help improve the lives of their family. Glover won not one, but two awards on the night, receiving acclaim for his lead performance and direction of the show. In winning the gong for Best Directing in a Comedy Series, Glover made history as the first black person to win the award.

Dan Fogelman's comedy-drama series may have lost out to The Handmaid's Tale on several categories, but the show that everyone's been talking about did win big in the Leading Actor category. Sterling K. Brown won the Emmy for his performance as Randall Pearson in the series, which follows the lives and connections of several people who share the same birthday. Though his speech started terrifically, with an ode to some of his favourite TV characters, the actor was played off as he got to his thank you's - much to the ire of the internet.

Saturday Night Live also dominated this year's Emmys, with it's biting satirical coverage of the year's tumultuous politics proving popular with voters. As well as winning the gong for Variety Sketch Series, two of the show's contributors also received acclaim. SNL regular and Hillary Clinton impersonator Kate McKinnon won the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, while Alec Baldwin was recognised as Best Supporting Actor for his recurring skits as US President Donald Trump.
Unfortunately, The Content Is Not Here

You have arrived at this page because the page or post you were looking for no longer exists. Please check our main navigation pages for other content: 

Home Page
Tentang Situs Slot Online Resmi MGS88 Nama Situs  MGS88 Minimal Deposit  Rp. 10.000,- (Sepuluh Ribu Rupiah) Proses Deposit   2 Menit Metode Deposit  Bank Transfer,  Pulsa,  E-Wallet Judi Online Terbaik  Slot Online,  Judi Bola,  Casino Online,  Togel Online,  Tembak Ikan Provider Slot Gacor Mudah Maxwin  Pragmatic Play,  PGSoft,  MicroGaming,  Habanero Slot Gacor Gampang Menang  Gates of Olympus,  Sweet Bonanza,  Wild West Gold,  Starlight Princess Win Rate 98%

RTP Live Slot Gacor Tertinggi Hari Ini Terbaru Terlengkap

Selamat datang di halaman RTP live dan informasi soal slot gacor hari ini dari situs MGS88 yang setiap hari selalu update. Berdasarkan RTP Live MGS88, Anda bisa mendapatkan informasi tentang slot online yang saat ini yang sedang Gacor atau onfire dengan persentase yang terbukti akurat, ini bisa menjadi rekomendasi anda sebelum memilih permainan slot online di situs MGS88. Cek RTP Slot sekarang juga bosku

Klik Provider Slot Untuk Mengetahui RTP Slot Secara Real Time

Selamat datang bagi kalian yang sedang mencari situs RTP Live terlengkap dan terkini hari ini. Sangat sesuai jika Anda mengunjungi website MGS88 RTP live untuk informasi tentang permainan slot yang lagi gacor dengan slot RTP yang terupdate. Persentase kemenangan yang kami berikan tentunya diambil dengan data yang sangat valid dan hanya untuk permainan slot yang tersedia di situs MGS88. RTP yang tersedia juga akan selalu diperbarui setiap hari berdasarkan level kemenangan yang diberikan kepada member kami.

Memang sih untuk bermain slot itu tergantung hoki dari setiap pemain, Namun RTP live atau bocoran slot dari yang kami sediakan ini adalah data autentik dari banyaknya pemain yang telah bermain dan mencapai kemenangan tinggi. Sederhananya, kalau banyak pemain yang menang di dalam 1 permainan slot, karena itu permainan slot tersebut akan mempunyai persentase RTP yang sangat tinggi.

Namun kami tegaskan sekali lagi, ini bukan sebuah paksaan kami situs MGS88 untuk anda bermain di game slot yang mana. Ini bisa dijadikan sebagai referensi atau tolok ukur, boleh dicoba kalau anda mempunyai feel yang kuat dalam memainkan permainan game slot. Anda dapat mengakses kapan saja dan di mana saja selama anda siap bermain. Jangan ragu untuk bertanya ya seputar pola putaran terhadap kami, sebab kami juga menyediakannya loh.

Apa itu RTP Live?

RTP Live ialah informasi mengenai persentase tertinggi saat ini dari hasil RTP Live dengan bocoran kemenangan pemain saat ini. RTP Live merupakan singkatan dari Return To Play atau bisa juga diartikan sebagai Return to Player. Karena itu, para pemain slot sekarang jika ingin mengetahui seberapa besar kemenangannya, bisa dengan memainkan permainan yang akan dimainkannya dan bisa untung dengan mudah dan tentunya maksimal.

Apa itu RTP Slot?

RTP Slot juga dikenal sebagai return to player atau pengembalian ke Pemain. RTP slot ialah persentase dari nilai pengembalian semua uang yang dipertaruhkan pemain dari waktu ke waktu. Dengan kata lain, RTP juga dianggap sebagai salah satu fitur slot yang mengembalikan uang pemain saat pemain kalah.

Persentase digunakan untuk menghitung RTP dalam permainan slot. Misalnya, jika slot memiliki RTP 97%, itu berarti untuk setiap 100.000 koin yang hilang di slot, slot dapat mengembalikan 97.000. Jika Anda mengetahui RTP sebuah permainan slot, Anda dapat memutuskan permainan slot mana yang akan dimainkan tanpa kerugian besar.

Apakah Angka Persentase RTP Slot Itu Penting?

Biasanya pemain slot itu tidak memperhatikan RTP dalam permainan yang akan dimainkan, biasanya setelah anda mengisi saldo utama anda akan langsung buru-buru memainkannya. Yang terakhir 90-96% mempengaruhi jumlah kemenangan. Semakin tinggi jumlah RTP yang digunakan, semakin luas peluang untuk mendapatkan keuntungan.

Akan namun itu segala tak secara 100% menjamin kemenangan kau dalam bermain, RTP itu cuma sebagai kalkulasi pengeluaran anda saja selama bermain slot.Dengan adanya RTP, kau dapat mengerjakan pengaturan atas uang yang akan kau pertaruhkan nanti pada ketika bermain.Untuk itu pada ketika kau bermain slot dan telah mengalami banyak kekalahan di satu permainan, direkomendasikan kau pindah ke permainan slot lainnya yang RTP nya lebih tinggi dari permainan yang tadi kau mainkan.

Keuntungan Menggunakan Bocoran RTP Slot Hari Ini

Situs MGS88 Akan dengan senang hati akan beberapa keuntungan yang didapatkan jika anda bermain slot dengan menggunakan RTP Live yang telah disediakan. Berikut Keuntungannya :

Peluang Kemenangan Meningkat Tentu saja, saat bermain slot online, menang adalah hal yang paling penting. Di sinilah RTP berperan sebagai metode atau metode baru yang akan membantu Anda memilih permainan slot persentase tinggi. Mendapat variasi dalam Memainkan Game Slot Pastinya banyak pemain slot online yang hanya memainkan 3-5 permainan slot saja. Namun dengan RTP Live slot akan memberikan banyak game slot lain yang bisa anda coba. Tentunya semua permainan slot memiliki potensi kemenangan yang besar, jadi jangan hanya mengandalkan beberapa permainan saja. Menambah Pengalaman Dalam Bermain Slot Keuntungan terakhir adalah Anda tentu saja menambah pengalaman dan keahlian dalam permainan slot online. Dengan berbagai macam permainan slot yang dimainkan, Anda pasti mengetahui karakteristik dari setiap permainan slot yang Anda mainkan. Akibatnya, Anda pasti bisa dianggap sebagai pemain slot yang andal, yang pasti akan meningkatkan peluang Anda untuk menang besar menggunakan RTP.

Daftar 8 Situs Dengan RTP Slot Live Tertinggi Hari Ini

Ada banyak penyedia mesin slot online di internet. Tetapi tidak semuanya memiliki peluang tinggi atau RTP Live Slot yang sangat tinggi. Tapi jangan khawatir, berikut ini adalah situs slot gacor yang akan memberikan bocoran slot dengan RTP Live Tertinggi:

RTP Live Slot Pragmatic Play (RTP Slot 97.85%) RTP Live Slot PG Soft (RTP Live 96.15%) RTP Live Slot Habanero (RTP Slot 95.89%) RTP Live Slot CQ9 (RTP Live 98.83%) RTP Live Slot Spade Gaming (RTP Live 94.99%) RTP Live Slot Micro Gaming (RTP Slot 95.39%) RTP Slot Live Top Trend Gaming (RTP Live 96.14%) RTP Slot Live JOKER123 (RTP Live 97.45%)

Itulah Daftar 8 Provider Slot Gacor dengan RTP Live teratas diatas tentunya kami analisa terlebih dahulu. Anda bisa membuktikannya langsung dengan mengklik banner atau meprovider game slot yang sudah tersedia di atas. Saran kami yaitu Anda harus memainkan semua penyedia slot di atas untuk mencapai peluang kemenangan terbaik.

Daftar Slot RTP Live Tertinggi Sering Kasih Jackpot

Selain mempertimbangkan RTP Slot Gacor yang ada, sebenarnya ada banyak faktor penting untuk menang dalam permainan judi online. Sebab ada banyak game yang memiliki fitur dan mekanisme unik dan bisa membantu anda meraih Jackpot yang sangat besar.

Berikut ini akan kami ulas daftar 5 game slot paling populer karena sering memberikan jackpot:

RTP Live Gates of Olympus Gates of Olympus adalah game slot teraneh dan terbaik di Indonesia. Karena permainan mesin slot ini paling populer karena kakek Zeus dapat mengizinkan pengganda x500. Selain itu, fitur dan mekanik Gates of Olympus juga sangat menguntungkan untuk memenangkan Grand Jackpot. Secara teoritis, RTP slot langsung Gates of Olympus bernilai 96,50%, yang berarti peluang Anda untuk memenangkan MaxWin cukup tinggi. RTP live Sweet Bonanza Sweet Bonanza adalah permainan slot terpopuler kedua. Game slot bertema buah dan permen yang lezat ini sepertinya akan menarik banyak perhatian karena tergolong slot gacor yang mudah menang. Secara teoritis, slot Sweet Bonanza RTP bernilai 96,48%, yang berarti peluang Anda cukup tinggi untuk memenangkan jackpot. RTP Live Wild West Gold Wild West Gold adalah permainan slot bertema koboi yang juga populer di kalangan penggemar konspirasi. Permainan slot Wild West Gold sendiri kerap menawarkan kejutan jackpot bagi para pemainnya. Selain itu, nilai RTP Live Slot menunjukkan indeks tertinggi hari ini, yang berarti sangat layak dan sangat direkomendasikan. RTP Live Starlight Princess Slot Starlight Princess ini memiliki gaya dan fitur yang mirip dengan Gates of Olympus. Perbedaannya hanya pada desain dan karakter gamenya saja, karena memiliki fitur dan mekanik yang sama tentunya RTP slot teoritis pada game slot ini sama yaitu 96,50%. RTP Live Cash Elevator Mungkin sebagian dari Anda baru mengenal slot Cash Elevator. Namun dari data benchmark yang diungkap, ternyata banyak sekali yang menikmati permainan slot ini. Dengan fitur dan mekanisme unik seperti Lift up and down asli, slot ini juga memiliki slot RTP Live dasar 96,64% yang juga memiliki mekanisme yang sangat menguntungkan untuk memperlancar tingkat kemenangan besar.

Bocoran Jam Main Slot Gacor Hari Ini

Dalam bermain permainan slot online itu tidak bisa dilakukan dengan sembarangan yah. Jadi, Jika anda bermain pada waktu tertentu seperti yang akan kita bahas sesaat lagi, ada kemungkinan anda untuk mendapatkan kemenangan lebih tinggi. Jam RTP Slot Gacor merupakan bocoran jam main slot yang akan memberikan anda kapan waktu yang pas dalam bermain game slot.

Tentu saja seluruh provider slot online memiliki jam tertentu dalam memberikan peluang kepada para pemainnya untuk mendapatkan kemenangan. Disini kami akan memberikan anda Bocoran Jam Slot Gacor yang Paling Akurat Hari ini:

Jam Slot Gacor Pragmatic Play 02:30 WIB - Jam 05:25 WIB Jam Slot Gacor Habanero 14:26 WIB - Jam 17:38 WIB Jam Slot Gacor CQ9 00:45 WIB - Jam 05:53 WIB Jam Slot Gacor PG SOFT 14:25 WIB - Jam 17:35 WIB Jam Slot Gacor Joker123 17:41 WIB - Jam 20:42 WIB Jam Slot Gacor Microgaming 22:30 WIB - Jam 00:35 WIB

MGS88: Situs Judi Slot Online Gacor Pay4D Resmi dan Terpercaya

MGS88 adalah situs game slot online Gacor terbaru yang bermitra dengan Pay4D, Pay4D sendiri merupakan daftar situs game slot online terpercaya dengan berbagai macam permainan judi yang mudah dimenangkan seperti Game Bola, Casino Online, Slot Pay4D, Tembak Ikan dan Pay4D Online Permainan togel seperti Singapura, Hongkong, Sydney dan lain-lain. Tujuan utama kami adalah menjadi situs judi online Pay4D yang menyediakan layanan judi online terbaik di Indonesia.

Kami juga salah satu situs resmi PAY4D di Indonesia yang pasti akan membayarkan semua kemenangan kepada semua member kami, karena kepercayaan dari semua member kami adalah prioritas utama kami sebagai mesin slot 4d Asia terbaik di Asia, khususnya di Indonesia.

Dalam melakukan sistem transaksi sistem simpanan dapat dilakukan dengan mudah melalui mobile banking dan electronic banking berupa bank BCA, BSI, BRI, BNI, Cimb Niaga, Permata dan Mandiri. Selain itu, transaksi e-wallet juga tersedia melalui Dana, Gopay, LinkAja dan Ovo serta dapat digunakan untuk pulsa tanpa dipotong.

Untuk mempermudah dan kenyamanan dalam melakukan registrasi atau melakukan setiap transaksi, MGS88 menyediakan layanan live chat dan Whatsapp terhubung langsung dengan customer service online 24 jam.

Mengenal Istilah Dalam RTP SLOT

Di slot RTP Live Anda akan melihat berbagai fitur yang mungkin tidak Anda pahami masing-masing. Namun jangan khawatir, disini sebagai situs slot gacor MGS88 kami akan memberikan penjelasan lengkap mengenai tentang istilah yang ada di RTP SLOT dibawah ini.




By Teresa Mull, American Spectator -

The week of August 20 was National Employee Freedom Week, a time to celebrate our nations 28 right-to-work states, lament over the 22 non-right-to-work states, and reflect on the destruction Americas teachers unions are inflicting on our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. Government schools enroll about 90 percent of U.S. students. Despite the unions insistence there should be no alternative to public schools because public schools are the best thing for kids, we see American students losing ground to their international peers every year. READ MORE
Title: The Putin Interviews

Author/Interviewer: Oliver Stone

Publisher: Hot Books/Skyhorse Publishing

Pages: 289

Price: Rs 699

What do we make of Vladimir Putin? There are those who deem him an astute statesman who has brought Russia back from the brink to a state of domestic stability, economic prosperity and international influence, while others are convinced he is a despotic and even totalitarian leader, who rocks the stable world order with land grabs, backing unsavoury regimes and influencing key elections.

Either perspective may arise from the news you are accustomed to hearing and believing. The latter view, though, is more likely to stem from the West, where the Russian President is viewed extremely critically since 2008 following the Georgian conflict, with his KGB background highlighted for repression at home, and Soviet era geopolitics for supporting Iran, bolstering the Assad regime in Syria, annexing Crimea, enabling Donald Trumps victory and many other transgressions.

But the increasingly demonised Putin has his own views on how the US didnt play fair after the Cold War ended, what its unilateral global interventions led to, what actually happened in Ukraine and the reasons why his country is accused of fixing the 2016 US presidential elections.

How can we decide between the two competing narratives? Why not allow the Russian President to present his own side of the story on these issues and other global happenings, and his view of his achievements and challenges?

That is what American filmmaker Oliver Stone, who never shies away from controversial subjects (Vietnam, JFKs assassination) and contrarian views, has tried to do in his set of interviews with Putin in Moscow and elsewhere in Russia over nine days in four trips from July 2015 to February 2017. And here, you can read their transcripts along with an additional section about the veracity of his claims.

While the publishers note that since the Putins answers were translated, they took the liberty of fixing grammar, unclear language, and various inconsistencies and given the span of the interviews, editing out some repetitive matter in an effort to ensure that the intent and meaning of what was said was accurately reflected.

They have done a capable job, with Putin appearing far from the lethal, uncontrollable megalomaniac his detractors usually portray him to be, or spewing fire at adversaries  at times, he even politely rebukes Stone for trying to make him appear anti-American.

At the same time, he rues that the Americans have never reciprocated his countrys measures towards concord and cooperation, supported adversaries in the Caucasus as they supported all the political forces including opposition forces, sought to hem in his country with military and anti-missile installations geared to meet the Iranian threat and also interfered in the 20102 Russian elections by channelising money to opposition candidates.

Putin also gives a balanced view of recent Russian history, including the Stalin era  drawing parallels with Napoleon, on the shortcomings of communism and where and why Mikhail Gorbachev went wrong. He also asserts that Russia will not return to the old days of the Communist police state, clarifies his stand on the LGBT controversy and other seminal issues.

He is also candid about his familys humble beginnings (his grandfather was a cook for Bolshevik bigwigs like Lenin and Stalin), his parents lost his elder sibling during the Siege of Leningrad during Second World War, and how he was wild as a teenager before his practice of judo  and service  made him calmer.

Putin also reveals that he doesnt have disturbed nights or remember his dreams (unlike his interlocutor Stone).

He also displays a cultivated sense of humour  in response to Stones query during his second trip whether he missed the filmmaker, quips: Yes, I cried every now and then.. and while presented a film DVD but opening the case to see its empty, says: Typical American gift.

Forthcoming as possible but also realistic, Putin, in the last meeting, tells Stone that he has given his version but doesnt know if anyone is going to be interested in that.

Overall, he comes across as someone, who wields enormous power and influence but responsibly, guards and weighs his words, which are never shrill, rhetorical or bombastic, and can be effective without being flamboyant or loud. That are qualities that would be prized in any political leader, and Russias condition and influence are proof enough.
Even as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stepped up its campaign Hisab Mangey Himachal against the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh, the party seems to be in no mood to name their chief ministers candidate for forthcoming Assembly polls in the hill state.

I will not able to comment on this. The decision rests with the Central Parliamentary Board of BJP, said Union minister for Law and Justice and Information Technology, Ravi Shankar Prasad on repeated questions by media at a press conference. Asked about former CM, Prem Kumar Dhumal in this regard, he just said, Dhumal is a respected leader.

Before Prasad, even the national BJP spokesperson, Sambit Patra had mentioned that the BJP will contest election, BJP will win and BJP will have its chief minister.

Ravi Shankar Prasad, however, aggressively took up the issues against the CM, Virbhadra Singh on the corruption issue. The CM is on bail and is continuously busy with his court cases. He has no time for the state, he said.

Prasad said governance was at the lowest ebb in HP and the state government here was not able to even utilise the Central projects and funding properly.

Prime Minister, Narender Modi is keen on giving much to Himachal personally, but the government here is not interested to use it. That is the reason that the state government is not implementing the schemes quickly, he said. He said the central government had allocated so many National Highways to HP, but the state government has not even made the Detailed Project Report (DPRs), delaying all the projects deliberately. They dont want the Centre to take credit of it, he said.

He appealed to the people of HP to elect BJP government in the state for smooth development.

The Union minister said Gudia gangrape and murder issue had exposed the HP governments intentions. It is for the first time that a Police officer of the rank of Inspector General in jail for breaking law, he said. He appreciated the people of HP for agitation to force the state government to take steps in the wake of biased Police investigation into the case.

He said as a law minister, he had written to the all Chief Justices and the CM in the country for time bound justice to rape victims through fast track courts. He said while all the parties were tight lipped on triple talaq, PM, Narendra Modi had categorically told him to stand by the women in the court.
The plan was to cheat a businessmans family and decamp with their cash and jewellery, but it went horribly wrong. Posing as income tax officials, six men turned up at the house of a south Delhi businessman in a Tata Safari vehicle bearing the Haryana governments sticker.

They walked into the house, confiscated the cell phones of family members, telling them that they were there to investigate tax evasion.

One of the family members found their behaviour suspicious and raised an alarm. A crowd gathered outside the traders house. The fake I-T sleuths were then given a thrashing and then handed over to the police.

The CCTV footage recovered from the colony showed one of their associates in a Honda City car waiting outside the house of Ramesh Chand, a Malviya Nagar-based businessmen dealing in electronic goods.

The accused were identified as Mitesh Kumar, Naunhyal, Yogesh Kumar, Govind Sharma, Amit Aggarwal and Parvinder. Parvinder, police said, was posing as the driver of the group. A seventh accused, Gaurav, was waiting outside the house in a car and managed to flee.
Six persons, including an elderly woman, were injured after an apparently deranged youth went on stabbing spree with a sharp knife last night at Mangolpuri in the national capital, said Delhi Police.

Twenty-five-year-old Shubham was overpowered, thrashed by the locals before being handed over to the police, according to sources. The police registered a case of attempt to murder on late Sunday night at the local police station.

The victims include Himanshu, 40, Aakash, and Mahavir, Prema Devi (62) her husband and son.

The horrific incident took place at around 10 p.m on Sunday when the accused, under influence of alcohol, started hitting random people with the sharp knife.

Six people including women and senior citizens gained injuries and were taken to Sanjay Gandhi Memorial hospital. One Vinay Kumar was severely injured and went through surgery, said DCP, Outer Delhi.

Ravi Singh, 28 a software engineer witnessed the incident and considered Shubham as a psychopath. Normal people dont do such things. Though he was consuming alcohol yet his mental status must be different from others. He hit six people before he was stopped by the locals. He attacked whoever came in his way. He ensured that people gain severe injuries and almost all of them fell on road after being hit.

Shubham belonged to Uttar Pradesh. In Delhi he was residing with his friends in Mangolpuri and was working in a factory in Mangolpuri Industrial area, said the police.

He is in the police custody and we will interrogate him to know his mental status and the reason behind his activity. By far he has previous criminal background, added the police.
Hollywood star Kate Winslet has to make getting enough sleep a project when she isnt working because she cant switch off.

Im not good at massages or spa days  I think I would just be thinking of all the things I needed to do when I got back.When Im not working, I almost try to make sleep a project. I dont sleep in the day or anything, but I try not to stay up until midnight doing things, Winslet told Britains Glamour magazine.

The 41-year-old actress knows she can only rely on herself to get things done and always gives her projects her all, and will never complain about the task at hand, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

She said: My work ethic is no one is bloody going to do it for you. At the end of the day, if the chips are down and something goes wrong, you should only ever have yourself to blame.

So dig deep, get on with it, and dont complain.

But Winslet knows she has been very lucky with her career as shes rarely had to take on other jobs to keep money coming in, unlike the other actors in her family.

She said: I grew up surrounded by people who would go back to their day job between acting roles. My dad, my sister and my uncle would go and work in the sandwich place or the post office, waitressing or babysitting, and thats what I did for a bit initially.

Straight after Heavenly Creatures, I went back to the delicatessen. I was just very lucky that when I was 20, I was cast in Titanic. I didnt have to go back to the deli after Titanic.
Police in Maharashtras Thane have detained Iqbal Ibrahim Kaskar, brother of absconding mafia don Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar, for questioning in an extortion case, official sources said late on Monday.

Kaskar was picked up from his south Mumbai residence by a team of Thane Anti-Extortion Cell headed by former encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma.

The action follows a complaint by a city businessman alleging he had been getting extortion calls from some mafia gangsters owing allegiance to Iqbal Kaskar.

Acting on the complaint, Sharma picked up Kaskar, who is presently being questioned by sleuths, the sources said.
A British national Al Qaeda terrorist on a mission to radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight in Myanmar has been arrested in Delhi, police said on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police PS Kushwah said Shami Rehman, 27, was arrested near Shakarpur bus stand in east Delhi on Sunday evening.

Kushwah said he was carrying a fake voter identification card in the name of Shumon Haq from Bihar.

Rehman, who had been an operative of Al Qaeda for the last four years, had received a three-month arms training in Syria and had fought in Alleppo, Kushwah said. Police also recovered a pistol and four cartridges from him.

Police said the accuseds mission was to set up base Manipur or Mizoram and radicalise Rohingya Muslims to fight the military in Myanmar.

Kushwah said Rehman was previously working in Bangladesh and was jailed.

He had radicalised around a dozen people in Bangladesh, he said, describing him as a hardcore terrorist.

The officer said the man was in India for the past two months and was in touch with different people from south India, West Bengal as well as Jammu and Kashmir.

The officer said Rehmans family owned a residence in central London.

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims have led Myanmar and taken refuge in Bangladesh  and some in India too  to escape violence in the wake of a military crackdown.
Hundreds of mourners bid a tearful adieu to Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Arjan Singh whose funeral rites were performed amid a 17-gun salute and a flypast at Delhis Cantonment area on Monday.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the three service chiefs, and several former chiefs and senior officers were among those who paid tribute to the soldier, mostly remembered for his military leadership during the 1965 war with Pakistan.

A flypast by Indias most potent fighter jet Su-30 and Mi-17 V5 helicopters was carried out and a 17-gun salute by the ceremonial battery honoured the Marshal who died on Saturday after a massive cardiac arrest. He was 98.

The mortal remains  kept at his Kautilya Marg residence on Sunday for visitors to pay their tributes  were brought to Brar Square in a decorated gun carriage.

The tricolour-wrapped coffin was then placed atop a pedestal where top political leadership and serving and retired military officers paid tribute to the first and the only five-star officer of the IAF.

Sitharaman, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Army chief General Bipin Rawat, Union Urban Development Minister Hardeep Puri, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader L.K. Advani, besides several former service chiefs, relatives and friends, were among those present.

After wreaths were laid and tributes paid, a prayer was said by a Sikh priest, following which the tricolour was removed from the coffin and handed over to his family.

The body was then placed on the funeral pyre.

Last honours were accorded to the hero, who inspired generations of Indians in his years of service to the nation, with the ceremonial battery of Indian Army giving a 17-gun salute with their 25-pounder guns.

Soon after, three Mi-17 V5 helicopters flew over with the IAF insignia in a vic formation, followed by three Su-30 fighter jets in a missing man formation.

The formation is an aerial salute performed as part of a flypast of aircraft at a funeral or memorial event, typically in memory of a fallen pilot, a well-known military service member or veteran, or a well-known political figure.

A military band played farewell tunes, as Arjan Singhs son Arvind, who had flown in from the US, lit the funeral pyre after religious rituals.

A tri-services guard lowered arms as a mark of respect.

Born in Lyallpur (now Pakistans Faislabad) on April 15, 1919, Arjan Singh was a fourth-generation soldier.

Taking over as the chief of IAF in 1964 when he was hardly 44, Arjan Singh led the force in the 1965 war, and has been lauded for his vision for modernisation of the Indian Air Force.

A fighter pilot, Arjan Singh had flown over 60 types of aircraft during his career, led the formation at the flypast over Red Fort on the first independence day in 1947, and was still flying as the chief of the IAF in the 1960s.

He served in different capacities after retiring and in 2002, he became the first and only officer of the IAF to be promoted to five-star rank as Marshal of the Indian Air Force.
All government and private schools within the range of 5 kilometers from international border in the Jammu district were closed for an indefinite period of time on Monday.

The decision was taken following indiscriminate shelling by Pakistan Rangers in the civilian areas along the border.

This has been done as a precautionary measure, said Jammu Deputy Commissioner Rajiv Ranjan.

The authorities are working on a solution to provide alternate facility for schools and students.

Parents are refusing to send their children to schools, as Pakistan Rangers are resorting to unprovoked mortar shelling in the civilian areas of Arnia and adjoining areas.

Several schools near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Naushera sector of Rajouri district are also closed.

In August, 500 students and teachers trapped in several schools due to indiscriminate shelling by Pakistan troops were rescued in bullet-proof vehicles of the Army and police.

Residents of the border areas in the Jammu division are demanding that one bunker for each family should be built by the government.

Most bunkers in the Arnia sector are full of rain water and as are unfit for people to take shelter at the time of shelling by Pakistan troops.
Both the media and civil society have been rather muted in their response to the historic Supreme Court judgment of 31 August 2016. It had ordered the West Bengal government to return the 400 acres of fertile and disputed land to the farmers in Singur. The land had been acquired by the Left Front government to enable Tata Motors to set up the Nano factory. Are the farmers really cultivating the land which was virtually transformed into non-agricultural wasteland after the takeover? What happened to those farmers who were subsisting on the absentee landowners land within the 400 acres? What about the recorded and unrecorded sharecroppers who were cultivating 2-3 crops in a season in the area that was supposed to be returned by the order of the apex court? No one seems to be interested in the ground realities of Singur now after a decade of turbulence in 2006-07. This indifference towards the peasantry is not a new phenomenon among the Kolkata-based academics and intellectuals.

There are of course certain exceptions. In 2016, a four-member team representing Women Against Sexual Violence and State Repression, West Bengal, comprising Nisha Biswas, Swapna Bandopadhyay, Sharmishtha Choudhury and Swapna Gayen, had visited Singur. It observed that the place was a perfect example of purchasing dissent and the report was published in Frontier on 18 April 2016. I quote from the concluding part of the report:

Perhaps the saddest feature of Singur today is the retrogression of women. Shyamali, Tapasi, Krishna were not only valiant warriors; they were also mass leaders a mere 9-10 years ago. Today they have humbly, silently and without resistance returned to hearth and home, content with the governments dole and their role in housekeeping. Their public lives are now a distant memory and private chores fully make up their present. This casual dismissal of women from the political space and public domain is even more ironic under the chief ministership of a notoriously firebrand woman.

During 1994-2005, I pursued my doctoral research based on anthropological fieldwork supplemented by reference work in the archives of the land acquisition department. Landless agricultural workers, small landowning peasants and sharecroppers are predominant in West Bengal. Land reforms and the panchayati raj system are pivotal in the overall construct. I had made the point in my first article on land acquisition, which was published in The Statesman in April 1998.

My field area was Kharagpur I block in Midnapore district. Large-scale acquisition of farmland for the Tatas took place in the early 1990s with very poor rates of compensation (Rs 20,000 per acre). The farmers also resisted land acquisition and finally a large tract of land acquired for a Birla Group remained unutilised for several years. But virtually nobody (Mamata Banerjee, Mahasweta Devi and Medha Patkar included) raised their voice against this acquisition. I compared this incident at a much later period of my research with the happenings at Singur in 2006 in an article entitled Singur on the Kharagpur track, published in this newspaper in December 2006. In all respects, there were sufficient reasons for Kharagpur to gain national and international recognition like Singur. But it did not happen. There were several reasons behind the silence of Kolkata-based intellectuals and the then Opposition parties over the land acquisition for the Tatas and Birlas by the Left Front government in Kharagpur in the early 1990s.

First, anti-Left political parties and human rights groups were not much interested in the land acquisition issue during that period when the Left Frontdriven industrialisation was at its nascent stage. The government had promised huge industrial investments by private companies in the state. Second, though the farmland acquired in Kharagpur provided food security to vegetable growers of a place called Gokulpur, the land was mono-crop in nature. A common refrain was that mono-crop land might be acquired since we need to have industrialisation in the state, but multi-crop land should never be allowed to be acquired for non-agricultural purposes.

There was hardly anybody in the anti-Left Front lobby who demanded the upgradation of the land from mono-crop to multi-crop, which should have been the governments policy. The anti-acquisition lobby wondered why the government was not setting up industries in the arid belt of Purulia, Bankura and West Midnapore. It was argued that if industries came up in these backward districts, the poor would have benefited.

Third, despite the spontaneous but feeble protests and resistance by farmers of Kharagpur during the mid- 1990s, no Opposition party lent solid support, as they had done in the case of Singur.The media did report the adverse effects of acquisition and the protests of farmers, but these did not attract the attention of Kolkata-based intellectuals and human rights groups. They were at that time obsessed with other issues.

The scenario changed after the massive resistance of the farmers against land acquisition in Singur and Nandigram during 2006-8. Economists, including Amartya Sen, and social activists, notably Medha Patkar, and politicians wrote and spoke on the justification of land acquisition for private industries in West Bengal. Websites named sanhati.com and counterviews.com were launched. Development resulted in forced displacement and resettlement in Communistruled West Bengal.

Out of this plethora of literature, I have made an attempt to find out the major arguments which justified the land takeover for industries in West Bengal, which till the other day was a state noted for the implementation of pro-farmer land reforms and decentralized rural development. During the early 1990s, the Left Front leaders argued that since land reforms had raised agricultural production and the purchasing capacity of the peasantry, the state is the ideal ground for the establishment of capital intensive heavy and medium industries. The second line of argument was advanced by the more theoretical Marxists who claimed that industries would be able to absorb the extra labour force engaged in agriculture in a disguised form and also owing to the introduction of mechanisation in cultivation. The proponents of this line of argument also stated that agriculture, owing to land fragmentation caused by inheritance of property rights and the hike in input costs, had ceased to be viable for many small and marginal farmers. This argument may be termed as employment through-industrialisation.

The land reforms introduced by the CPI-M resulted in patta holders being given small plots. These arguments were not supported by any empirical data either by the government or by any independent researcher. On the contrary, the two substantial government reports, one prepared by Nirmal Mukarji and Debabrata Bandopadhayay in 1993 and the other by Jayati Ghosh in 2004 showed with data collected from government sources that land reform and registration of sharecroppers still remained incomplete. Landlessness was on the increase in West Bengal. The reports suggested better land reforms and formation of active cooperatives as well as more government responsibilities towards the creation of improved marketing facilities for the rural cultivators. The empirical findings of the governments own reports by experts were largely ignored by the administration and huge investments for capital intensive industrialisation were encouraged and justified by macroeconomic arguments. My empirical findings also showed that land reform could be pushed back by land acquisition by dispossessing the patta holders as well as sharecroppers.

(To be concluded)
The third line of argument maybe termed as the historical necessity of industrialisation. This argument was advanced by Amartya Sen. The proponents of this line of thought claim, by citing examples from the history of Western Europe, that as industrialisation is an inevitable stage after agriculture, the farmers of Bengal are expected to part with their agricultural land for the establishment of industries.

At a later stage, when acquisition of huge tracts of fertile agricultural land began to take place giving rise to peasant resistance in a number of districts, the trend culminated in the Singur and Nandigram crises, and another line of macro-economic argument emerged.

It was stated with facts and figures that since all the land for proposed industrial investment for the coming years was only a very small fraction of the total amount of cultivated and cultivable land, there would be no food crisis in the state if the lands are acquired. Such arguments justified the land takeover for industrialisation. The economist, Dr Abhirup Sarkar, part of the think-tank of the present Trinamul government was the major proponent of this line of thought.

There is yet another argument in favour of the the CPI-Ms high-voltage industrialisation. Interestingly enough, this argument is often leveled by the Opposition leaders of present day West Bengal. The proponents advocate industrialisation on uncultivated or monocrop land in the relatively arid districts of the state ~ Purulia, Bankura and West Midnapore in order to protect the highly fertile multicrop lands in Hooghly, Burdwan, and East Midnapore.

This argument may be termed as industrialisation on uncultivated land. It was packaged as principles of the market. The proponents stated that the government should not acquire land for industries. In other words, land should be exchanged between the farmer and the industrialist by the principle of willing buyer-willing-seller.

A variant of this argument proposed that there should be a land bank created by the joint efforts of the government and the industrialists from which land would be bought or leased out on the basis of certain market principles. It did not take into consideration the already existing differential bargaining power of the heterogeneous group of landholders in terms of the quality and size of arable land in the possession of farmers.

While examining these arguments in favour of industrialisation, it needs to be noted that supporters of industrialisation utilised a combination of arguments to strengthen their positions. For example, the employment-through-industrialisation argument was often combined with the historical necessity of industrialisation. Likewise, industrialisation through land reform was often blended with the employmentthrough-industrialisation argument.

Basically, all the arguments have missed the microlevel ground realities which the anthropologists and sociologists have discovered through their painstaking fieldwork. Moreover, none of the arguments dealt with rehabilitation of the displaced farmers or with the violation of constitutional provisions which empowered the local self-governments to implement development programmes within their jurisdictions.

Second, all the arguments were based on a degree of fallacy. For example, the first set of arguments did not consider situations of land acquisition which would drive the perceived beneficiaries to penury and drastically reduce their purchasing capacity. In fact, this is a self-defeating logic.

The second line of argument under the first set also did not take into consideration the fact that in a state where land is scarce and the density of the population is high, as in West Bengal, modern capital intensive and technologically advanced industries might not absorb the so-called extra labour force. The third line of argument was the weakest simply because comparison between Western Europe during the Industrial Revolution and present-day West Bengal was nothing but an irrational exercise by economists.

The second set of arguments totally ignored the fact of household food insecurity and lower purchasing capacity of displaced farmers. This was a common feature of land acquisition irrespective of whether it was mono-crop or multi-crop farmland under the present legal arrangement of providing only cash compensation without any sustainable measure of rehabilitation like sharing of the benefits.

The other variant of the third set apparently looks like a propeasant argument, but it is actually anti-poor because it supports the acquisition of uncultivated and/or mono-crop land as if people did not depend on those lands nor do the departments of rural development and irrigation have any responsibility to transform those lands into multicrop and cultivable lands.

The third set apparently favoured a non-coercive mode of land takeover, but was basically coercive to actual cultivators. The absentee holders of land might be willing to sell the land even at a lower price at the cost of displacing sharecroppers and unrecorded actual cultivators of their land who might have been unwilling to sell the land on which the livelihood of the latter depended. More fundamentally, the proponents of this school of thought have totally ignored the fact that in India a large amount of land is being used by the rural poor as a common property resource for which there is no provision for compensation to the users in case of acquisition under the existing law.

The Trinamul Congress government is yet to develop any comprehensive resettlement and rehabilitation policy for the thousands of families affected by various development projects. The new government had enacted a law on 14 June 2011 in the West Bengal Assembly named Singur Land Rehabilitation and Development Act, 2011.

With this law, the government had reacquired about 1000 acres of farmland from the Tatas, which had been given to the company by the CPI-M government in 2006 for setting up a small car manufacturing factory. The Trinamul government had intended to return 400 acres of farmland to the unwilling farmers around whom the agitation against the Left Front government was organised. In another case of governmental land acquisition for housing in North 24-Parganas district of West Bengal, the farmers began to cultivate their farmland which was acquired but remained unutilised.

According to media reports, these farmers were assured by the Trinamul, before the Assembly election of 2011, that their land, would be returned to them if the party could come to power. But now these farmers were turning their backs to the Trinamul Congress, since the party had not kept its pre-election promise (The Statesman, 31 December 2011). The failure of land acquisition in Singur could neither generate a labour force freed from agriculture nor create enthusiasm and hope for the capitalist investors.

The Left Front governments neo-Marxist theory of riding on the shoulders of land reform to achieve successful capital-intensive industrialisation turned out to be a selfdefeating exercise. The praxis sabotaged both land reform initiated in the past and future industrialisation. On the other hand, the Trinamul governments enthusiasm to generate capital and employment either through legal means or through market forces seemed to be mere populist rhetoric.

Take for example, the decision on land banks. If indeed such a bank exists, then why should land be given from the bank only to industrialists and not to displaced farmers who would be losing land because of industrialisation? This is the lesson one can learn after a decade of the Singur episode in West Bengal.

(The writer taught Anthropology at Vidyasagar University and acted as an expert of the Standing Committee on Rural Development, Lok Sabha)

(Concluded)
Recent press reports inform us that a group of 100 serving officers of the ranks of Major and Lt Colonel of the Army Service Corps (ASC) have approached the Supreme Court for rectification of an act of discrimination.

They claim they are deployed on combatant tasks when the army needs them, but are denied benefits on promotion prospects which come with operational deployment, as their service is categorised as non combatant. While ignoring the legal jargon in the case, there is merit in their claim, as the army continues to follow outdated policies solely to protect a select lot. When considered for operational deployment or counter insurgency tasks, there is no such term as non combatant.

All who wear the uniform are combatants and function accordingly, irrespective of their arm or service. However, to differentiate when promotions and appointments are considered is gross injustice. For decades, the army has followed the policy of distinguishing between different arms and services, and has generally been biased towards the infantry. Officers belonging to the infantry and armoured corps are automatically considered for command of formations, while those from other arms including engineers, artillery, air defence and signals need to be selected based on their performance, despite being equally fit. Very few are approved.

Officers from services (ASC, Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) and Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (EME)) are not even entitled to be considered for such appointments, only because they belong to these units. The logic conveyed is that the fighting arms, implying the armoured and infantry are at the forefront of battle, hence only they are capable of commanding formations. This logic may not be valid any longer for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, all officers, irrespective of arm or service are trained in common institutions and establishments in operations of war, in addition to specialised courses of their specific arm or service. During this period, there is no bias towards arm or service. Secondly, all major courses which determine higher appointments including the Higher Command course, Higher Defence Management course and the National Defence Course are attended by the creme de la creme of the batch from all arms and services.

The training and exposure is common; therefore to subsequently differentiate between officers is incorrect. Thirdly, there are claims that officers from the services are not exposed to operations. This is incorrect. Officers from the services have also been at the forefront of operations in the last few decades. They presently undergo two years of infantry attachment soon after commission. They are the front runners in operations of Infantry battalions.

In fact, the services presently claim more Ashoka and Param Vir Chakra awardees amongst the officer category than do Infantry regiments. The nation has fought no war since Kargil. Even in Kargil, many young officers who fought, laid down their lives and were decorated for bravery were from the services, mainly the AOC and ASC. In the valley, services officers continue to operate and produce results as an integral part of Rashtriya Rifles and infantry battalions and have been decorated for their bravery and performance on numerous occasions.

Every officer in the present environment, irrespective of arm or service, undergoes a minimum of one tenure in the valley or the North-East battling militancy. In addition, when posted to any establishment or unit in insurgency-affected areas, which is almost as frequent as the infantry, they are irrespective of appointment given additional tasks, including road opening or patrolling. Thus, operational experience at the junior level is the same.

Claiming they lack similar experience at staff levels, again a reason for denying rightful appointments, is because of the armys faulty policies which prevents their getting the desired exposure. This bias implies a reduction of vacancies in senior ranks which translates into making them lose out on promotional avenues. Such a narrowminded approach of the top army brass leads to capable officers losing out only because they were commissioned into a service. Simultaneously, this faulty policy has the army bypassing qualified and capable officers.

At the stage of commissioning, a cadet is asked to list the arm or service of his choice. The final allotment is made on vacancies and his seniority in the training institute. Many never get their desired choice. To deny an officer a rightful future solely because he was commissioned into a service is wrong. After all he wears the same uniform, is trained in the same institutes and fights alongside his colleagues from other arms when he is so tasked.

There has been no report of any service failing in its role in operations or counter insurgency. This narrow-minded outlook of the army, protecting a select few, while denying equal rights to others, has affected morale and cohesion between officers of different arms and services. Officers from the services have begun questioning army headquarters on their discrimination.

Earlier, over three hundred officers from the services had approached the courts to offset a skewed promotion policy put in place after the Kargil war, when the army decided to reduce the ages of command.

They finally won that battle in the Supreme Court and have now been compelled to take up another. The third largest army in the world and the most respected institution of the nation is being sued by its own for discrimination and favouritism.

The hierarchy is aware of its shortcomings, but is unwilling to change. It is too steeped in trying to protect a select few, while ignoring others, only because they are serving in arms and services, other than the infantry. It may again have to be the courts that compel the army to change and become just and fair to all those who wear the uniform and swear allegiance to the nation.

After all, they too have done their bit in protecting the nation. Army headquarters must revisit its skewed policies and amend its biases internally, before it is embarrassed by the courts and publicly questioned.

(The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.)
The Supreme Court is due to rule on the fate of the Rohingyas facing deportation by the Indian government. We argue that the Rohingyas in India and Bangladesh have the right, under established principles of international refugee law, human rights law, and humanitarian law, not to return to Myanmar until hostilities have ceased and their safety can be guaranteed. They should also benefit from Indias longstanding principle of welcoming refugees.

On 8 September 2017, India rejected in the Bali declaration of the World Parliamentary Forum a reference to Rohingya and human rights. Notably, India does not have a domestic law on refugees even as India is not a signatory to the Refugee convention of 1951 and the optional protocol. In the wilful absence of a legal definition of refugee in India, the Supreme Court in the Assam Mahasangha case clubbed illegal migrants to India as an aggression on the state.

No wonder, the government plans to deport on security grounds some 40,000 Rohingyas living in India. The Indian courts and the government have both taken a thought-out stand on the Rohingyas and other Muslim refugees.

Given the lack of a domestic law and the apathy to international law on refugees, India does not have to officially provide any relief to the Rohingya refugees. Consequently, they live in abject poverty in slums of Muslimmajority areas of Delhi, Telengana, Jammu and West Bengal. The UNHCR in 2016 however said that India has always respected the principle of non-refoulement  not sending back refugees to a place where they face danger.

Rohingyas have been severely persecuted in Myanmar in the last four decades. The situation has worsened in the last five years. Myanmar has created a so-called lockdown zone or area clearance operation zone between Taungpyoletwea and Maungdaw.

These are virtually internment camps. Tens of thousands of Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh. Bangladesh too considers them as unwanted migrants, yet has hosted about 500,000 Rohingyas over the years. Like India, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has denied that more Rohingyas are inbound.

At any rate, for her, Rohingya are a problem for Myanmar and the United Nations to handle. The economic condition of Rohingyas in Bangladeshi camps is grim. In search of better livelihood, they have been taking risky sea voyages to south east Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, as well as Australia. Many Rohingyas have been trafficked via Thailand to various countries to work as bonded labour. Many of them have died on the high seas and were killed while crossing the Thailand Malaysia border.

In 2017, several Muslim majority nations in Asia have spoken of the plight of the Rohingya. While the Malaysian Prime Minister spoke against the treatment of the Rohingya, the Maldives has severed trade ties with Myanmar in protest. In India, the Rohingyas therefore face two problems: as refugees, they are seeking asylum, and as economic migrants, they want formal permission to work in a host country.

With the South East Asian countries and Australia clamping down on entry, India threatening to deport them, and Bangladesh refusing to accept them, the Rohingyas are running out of options to find a safe, secure and economically viable territory to live in. Surprisingly, ASEAN of which Myanmar is a member has been mute since 2009. The triangular ethnic conflict between the majority Burmese, Rakhine Buddhists and minority Muslims, including Rohingyas, has fomented the political crisis in western Myanmar. Rohingyas were offered full and equal citizenship after Burma became independent in 1948. But Burmese nationalists and General Ne Wins government drastically altered the status of Rohingyas in Myanmar.

Burmese nationalism portrays Burma as a land of Burman Buddhists. For it, Muslims are ethnically, linguistically and religiously different from the Burmese people. They are Bengalis who were brought in by the British colonisers. Burmese nationalism wants to create a Muslim-free Myanmar. Burmese Muslims contest this historical narrative.

They trace their history to the Arakan kingdom and region, and consider themselves as ethnically Arakanese. Burmese military captured power in 1962. Since then, it has been undertaking anti-Muslim actions.

In 1978, the Burmese army began a major offensive, referred to as Ye The Ha, against opposition groups in Arakan as well as the Rohingya mujahidin. Roughly 200,000 Muslims fled to Bangladesh. The Ne Win government passed an exclusionary Citizenship Act in 1982. This act created three categories of citizens  national, associate and naturalised.

Full national citizenship was reserved for 135 national races (official indigenous ethnic groups) or those who could prove their ancestry in Burma before 1823, that is, before the first Anglo-Burmese war (1824-1826). Rohingya is a self-descriptive term, yet they could claim to be an Arakanese ethnic group under the 1948 Union Citizenship (Election) Act.

1982 act which replaced Arakanese with Rakhine and excluded Rohingyas. Consequently, they found themselves as second class associate citizens. Rohingya were offered white cards which conferred the right to vote. These cards were cancelled in 2015.

Rohingyas were forced to identify themselves as Bengalis and furnish evidence of three generations of continuous living in Myanmar for eligibility as naturalized citizens. In this process, 1.1 million Rohingyas living in Myanmar have been denied citizenship. The Rohingya refugee crisis requires urgent attention. Otherwise, the ongoing ethnic cleansing will snowball into full-fledged genocide.

(The writers are on the faculty of the Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat.)
The Aadhaar project could have suffered a serious setback with the UP police ~ not the most reputed of investigation agencies ~ unearthing a racket to generate fake Aadhaar numbers, after which the printing of counterfeit cards is relatively simple. In what boils down to a hacking job, a gang in Kanpur was able to get access to the data of Aadhaar agents, and clone the biometric data to generate fake numbers and cards. In normal course it would have been expected that top investigating agencies of the central government would have immediately swung into action; but there is no report of them doing so, and the UP police seems to have put a lid on information being released to the media. Nor did the cops boast about the number of fakes they had detected or prevented, a deviation from their normal practice. All of which suggests that a damage-containment exercise is being mounted. Although the hacking operation would appear elaborate, it did not require highly sophisticated apparatus, hence copy cat operations could be conducted on the basis of information the police initially shared.

While even earlier there had been reports from across the nation of unscrupulous agents extorting money for processing applications, the generation of fake numbers takes racketeering to an entirely different level, makes a mockery of the claim that the data is protected. And this could impact the case in the apex court questioning the validity of the project, which might also be impacted by the ruling on privacy being a fundamental right. The government lays much stock by the Aadhaar project, and it now equates this with a domestic passport, required for a range of financial transactions, owning a mobile phone, booking a railway ticket etc. It is not surprising that with the Aadhaar card becoming such a critical necessity, ways to beat the system would be evolved. What corrective or remedial measures the UIDAI authorities take remains to be seen.

What has been overlooked by government when pinning such faith in Aadhaar is the slipshod manner in which the data was collected and only superficially verified. The staff had only minimal training in the use of computers and cameras, and went about their work in much the same fashion as the way electoral rolls and ration cards were prepared. The workers were keen to report having catered to numbers,. And were probably unaware of the importance of what they were doing ~ importance to which the present government has substantially added. Recently some people trying to link their mobile phone with their cards were shocked when the linking-devices were unable to read their fingerprints. The short point being that while there can be little disputing the objectives of the Aadhaar cards their preparation was shoddy ~ which the government is reluctant to admit.
Singapore has entered a new era with a woman President. And decidedly stark must be the contrast with Myanmar, the country that now bears witness to the persecution of minorities. Not so, however, in enlightened Singapore which now boasts a Malay ~ a minority segment ~ in the presidential palace of Istana. The race factor, unlike in Myanmar once more, has turned out to be of little or no relevance in the overall construct. Having said that, the singularly jarring note of Halimah Yacobs assumption of office must be that it was a walkover, a development not quite concordant with the certitudes of democracy. The short point must be that Singapore has elected its President without a vote being cast; yet in the moment of a watershed outcome, it would be less than gracious to aver that the selection was undemocratic. It is pretty obvious that eligibility has been a critical determinant not least because the other two candidates did not, in the reckoning of the Presidential Elections Committee, meet the eligibility requirements stipulated by the law of the land. To an extent, Indias NOTA option has been exercised in the true sense of the term. Already, there is a groundswell of popular goodwill and support for Halimah, who happens to be the former Speaker of Parliament. Arguably, an open contest would have given her the opportunity to buttress her record of public service to the people. It could also be argued that she would well have been elected on the strength of her merit. Which factor is decidedly more important than her community which has been accorded a relatively minor rating in the psephological swing towards an ethnic group and the gender of the candidate. In the net, the citystate will for the first time have a woman Head of State, representing the HDB heartland, so-called. Yet, the tenets of multiracialism, as formulated by the nations founders, can of course play a decisive role in the event of a contest. The praxis of a reserved election for minority candidates has been a contentious issue in Singapore as it envisages the exclusion of other races. In the event, last Tuesday witnessed the triumph of meritocracy, facilitated by the ineligibility of the other two candidates.

Profound indeed has been Halimahs response to her famous victory. She has been able to counter the debunking in certain quarters that she is a President-Select ~ Im a President for everyone. Although there has been no election, my commitment to serve you remains the same. Thus was she able to steer clear of the societal divisions of race, gender, community, and ethnicity. Her victory can be contextualised with the Singapore governments decision last year that the post of President would next be held by a person of Malay descent. As Singapore enters a new phase of development, Halimah deserves all the support that the nation can muster.
Our relationship had been eroding for a while, but it was still a shock when she left me. She just went to her mothers home and never came back. When I called, she said she had decided not to return.

Five years I nursed my sense of loss. Then I met somebody special. She was very special. I met her at a party and at the end of the hour I felt I had struck a chord. We walked out and preferred to be with each other.

That was just the beginning. I wanted to talk to her every day. I wanted to tell her everything. Clearly she felt the same way. In three months we were a number.

I told her about the other relationship. She said, uncomfortably, that she felt guilty because she was usurping someone elses place. I said the relationship had ended, definitively, before I met her. I was not sure that she was persuaded.

Seven months later I had an accident. It was late and I was tired. Doubtless I was also careless. The front edge of the car struck a concrete block and caved in. Seat belts werent then in common use. The steering wheel ploughed through my chest cracking all the ribs on the right side and breaking the sternum.

A colleague was passing by lucky happenstance. He rushed me to a hospital and arranged for a surgeon. He knew of my long-term relationship and called her. Later he thought of my special friend and called her too.

When I recovered from the painkillers, I thought of them. That, in fact, was all I thought of. But none came to see me.

I lay in bed, took pills, read and watched the lengthening shadows of the day. Some friends and relations visited me, but the two persons I most longed to see did not come. I could not have told them so, not in so many words, but both teetered endlessly at the edge of my mind.

The day I was finally released from the hospital, the specialists forbade me to use stairs for two months. Since my apartment was on the second floor, my brother insisted that I stay awhile with him and his wife in their large groundfloor apartment. They took punctilious care of me.

When I was leaving their place, my brother told me that my special friend had called him regularly to ask about my condition. She did not want it mentioned to me.

I still walked and drove with great difficulty. But I went to see her. How could she not come to see me even when my life was in the balance?

She listened quietly and then told me something I did not know. The colleague had called and she had rushed to the hospital. She was told she could not see me immediately because the doctors were in my room, examining me and discussing my status. She had to wait.

She went to the waiting room. The room was empty save for one person. This was the person she felt guilty about. She felt again that she was the usurper. She could not face the other person. She stood, unseen, at the waiting room door for a long time. Then she went home.

She now said to me she felt she was wrong. She should have visited me; she owed me that. But she could not, knowing the other person would be there.

But the other person was never there. She told me when I saw her years later that, though she was distraught, she had actually noticed my special friend at the door. She felt then she couldnt be at the hospital or in my room. She couldnt be with me anywhere if there was another presence. She returned home from the waiting room.

I could recall the misery of the days in a hospital bed. Little could reduce the sting. Yet I now knew someone had cared  as we all do  in her own way.

The writer is a Washington-based international development advisor and had worked with the World Bank. He can be reached at [email protected]
In an effort to highlight places of interest in countries across the world, their varied culture, economy and history, The Statesman brings to you a Weekly Focus on countries with which India shares diplomatic ties and friendship. This weeks focus is on Seychelles. Know all about the country.

Capital: Victoria, Currency: Seychellois rupee, Language: Seychellois Creole (official) 89.1 per cent, English (official) 5.1, French (official) 0.7, other 3.8, unspecified 1.4 (2010 est.) Religion: Christian, indigenous, Muslim Ethnic groups: French, African, Indian, Chinese, and Arab

CLIMATE

Lying just below the equator, the Seychelles enjoys a tropical warm climate all year round. Whilst the temperature reaches maximum 32C and rarely drops below 23C, the islands do receive monsoon rains from November to April with the northwest trade winds, despite being outside the cyclone belt. There is no distinct dry season, but this time of year does tend to be more hot and humid season in general and those visiting from December to March are most likely to experience rain. From April onwards, the heat gives way to a period of cooler weather, and rougher seas when the trade winds blow from the south-east (May to October).

150 WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Air Seychelles, Jet Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Ethiopian Airlines operate more than 150 flights to Seychelles from New Delhi every week. The airports at Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai also operate regular flights to this island nation. Air Seychelles fly directly from India to Seychelles. Indians can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days. To obtain the visa they must hold an onward or return ticket, valid passport and funds of minimum $150 per person per day, along with proof of accommodation.

EARLY INDIAN SETTLERS

Indian nationals were the earliest inhabitants of this island, mostly from Tamil Nadu and later from Gujarat. They came as traders, labourers, construction workers and more recently as professionals. The number of Indian nationals including PIOs is 10,000 which is significant in a country having total population of 91,000. Virtually all the shops in this country are owned by the Tamil community. A large portion of the real estate business and the construction industry is controlled by Gujaratis.

Eclectic cuisine

Seychellois Creole cuisine is influenced by African, Chinese, French and Indian traditions. The careful blending of spices is a major feature of cuisine in the country and much use is made of chillies, coconut milk and breadfruit, the latter often used as a carbohydrate staple in place of rice. There are 10 varieties of chilli and fish is served many ways ~ roasted, grilled, curried and raw  alongside chutney and cooked vegetables such as green mango or aubergine. Raw vegetables are usually served with a vinaigrette dressing. Lobster, octopus, pork and chicken are used more frequently than beef or lamb, which must be imported. Some of the specialities are Chatinirequin, Soupe de tectec, Bouillon brede, Caribernique, Chatini Seychellois, Palm hearts, Rousettes, Ladob and Carotte banana.

Brisk business

India and Seychelles have an elaborate architecture of defence and security cooperation that has deepened over the years with the growing piracy menace and other economic offences in the strategic Indian Ocean region. Seychelles long list of imports from India includes rice, food products, cement, linen, cotton, vehicles and associated transport equipments, medicines, instruments and appliances for medical, surgical and dental use. The total imports from India in 2015 amounted to $40.38 m, while total exports to India in 2015 were minimal.

Among the Indian companies present in Seychelles, Bank of Baroda has been present in Victoria since 1978. Bharti Airtel has so far invested over $25 million, having set up the Airtel Seychelles mobile telephone and internet services since 1998. Telco has supplied most of the buses for public transport in Seychelles.

IDYLLIC ISLANDS

Victoria: In the centre of the city, a statue of three pairs of birds wings symbolise the origins of the population in Europe, Africa, and Asia. The most prominent historical structure is the clock tower. Overlooking the square, St Pauls Cathedral is built on the site of the first church of the Seychelles. Natural History Museum& Lord Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple(only Hindu Temple) are must-visit sites.

La Digue Island: Haven for nature lovers and those seeking a glimpse of traditional island life. Stunning white sand beaches and granite rock outcrops rim the coast. Diving and rock climbing popular activities.

Ste Anne National Marine Park: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat excursions reveal the diversity of marine life in the parks coral reefs.

Island fantasies come true in Mahe (Beau Vallon beach, Anse Intendance), Praslin (Anse Georgette, Anse Lazio, AnseVolbert), Cousin Island, Curieuse Island, Silhouette Island (the third largest of the granitic islands) and Bird Island. Other attractions are Morne Seychellois National Park, Vallee de Mai National Park, Aride Island Nature Reserve and Aldabra Atoll (all Unesco World Heritage Sites).

Compiled by Kunal Jain ([email protected])
After completing his MA in History from the University of Oslo, Nils Ragnar Kamsvag, Ambassador of Norway to India, joined the MFA in 1981. After being the Secretary of the Royal Norwegian Embassy, Rome,in 1989,he was assigned a number of high-profile assignments including the one as Head of Information Division, MFA in 1993,which were succeeded by various roles including those as Ambassador, Middle East and North African Affairs, MFA from 2001 till 2003, as the Norwegian Representative to the Palestinian Authority, Al Ram till 2005, as Project Manager, Crisis Management, MFA till 2006 and many others. From 2010 to 2015, Ambassador Kamsvag served as Ambassador to Serbia, Macedonia and Montenegro Royal Norwegian Embassy, Belgrade. In this interview to The Statesman News Service he talks about the growing cooperation between India and Norway and the future prospects.

Excerpts:

How do you look at current state of economic and political relations between India and Norway?

Our current political and economic relationship is more comprehensive than at any time in the 400 years of IndoNorwegian history. From Polar issues to research, defence or environmental issues: The scope of Indo-Norwegian relations is steadily growing more comprehensive.

No wonder then that Norways commercial profile in India has grown substantially over the last two decades. Few know that Norway is one of the major European investors in India, thanks to the growing investments of the Norwegian Pension Fund Global  the worlds largest sovereign wealth fund.

With Indias re-emergence as a global power, we also attach great significance to strengthened political contact. The tremendous growth ~ both physically and in terms of staff  of our Embassy and the Consulate General in Mumbai over the last years, testify to this effort. Nevertheless, there is still a vast and unfulfilled potential for increased co-operation between our two countries. This is work in progress, as it were.

Why is Norway not a part of the European Union (EU)?

The short answer to this interesting question is the fact that the Norwegian people declined membership in the EU by popular vote two times: once in 1972 and then again in 1994. There are many theories for this. Many Norwegians felt uncertain about the consequences of a membership for our social standards, for democratic influence and for the future of our relative small-scale agriculture and for our rich marine resources.

In sum, the majority of the voters felt Norway was better off without a membership. And to be honest, one must admit that our country has fared pretty well without a membership. However, it is important to underline that Norway is a member of the single European market, with the exception of fish and agricultural products, through our membership in the European Economic Area (EEA). Norway is also a member of Schengen, so we are very much integrated with the EU ~ although not as full members.

You have been negotiating a mutual legal assistance treaty in criminal matters with India for quite some time. What is the progress on it?

We are aware of the treaty negotiations. I am sure relevant authorities on both sides are closely following this.

India claims to be a victim of terrorism sponsored by Pakistan.What is Norways view in the matter?

We take a strong stand on terrorism, no matter where it stems from. It is the responsibility of all countries to prevent cross-border terrorism originating from within its borders.

Does Norway support Indias candidature for a permanent seat on a reformed UN Security Council and its accession to the Nuclear Suppliers Group?

For Norway, functional international institutions are of crucial importance. Only in that way can we secure a predictable, peaceful and rulesbased international order. We believe the worlds largest democracy, and a rising global power, must have a larger say in the formal structures of world politics. Norway thus supports a permanent seat for India in the UN Security council. The council must change with the times to remain potent and relevant. Increased power should reflect increased international responsibility.

What are the areas in which you think India and Norway can intensify cooperation?

To be frank, all of them. But we are particularly eager to strengthen our co-operation within fields like research and development, biotechnology, renewable energy, climate change, and ~ as a nation that has lived with, by and on the sea for 2,000 years ~ all matters related to the so-called blue economy. The immense ocean spaces that both our countries have been blessed with offer exciting prospects for the future. Norway has cuttingedge expertise in this field, from aquaculture to shipping, subsea-technology and research. This is nothing less than an ocean of opportunities, as the Indian Navy aptly puts it in its recruitment ads.

How popular are Indian culture and Indian cuisines in Norway?

They are becoming increasingly popular all over Norway. One finds Indian restaurants across Norway. We may, of course, tone down the spices a bit! There was a very popular annual mela held in Norway, where this year, Indian personalities like Ila Arun took part. A Bollywood festival also takes place in Norway annually.

Indians are nowadays spending a lot on tourism. Do you have any plans to organise road-shows in India to promote Norway as a tourist destination in this country?

The Scandinavian Tourism Board does regular activities across India round the year. We have seen a dramatic visa growth from India in recent years. Indian tourist numbers to Norway continue to grow steadily as India now reaches the third spot after China and Russia in visitor visas. With a 16 per cent increase so far since 2016, the number of Indian tourists to Norway is consistently increasing. In the first half of 2017 (January-June), more than 11,000 visas were issued to Indian citizens. In comparison, the data from 10 years ago for the similar period shows only 3500 visas. These figures are also reflective of a global trend.

A total of 98,554 visitor visas have been issued globally by Norway from January-June 2017, showing a clear upward growth in the numbers since 2007, when 109,700 visas were issued for the whole year. What is also new is that we have a strong growth of winter tourism, also from India, to a great extent due to the fascination with the Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis, which can be experienced all over Northern Norway during winter.

This is a welcome growth as we continue making efforts to promote Norway as an attractive destination for Indians, through films also. However, we have a pan-India approach in this regard as well, and our focus is not only on Bollywood but also South Indian cinema, which is equally big and important from our perspective. Since 2015, six Indian films have been shot in Norway and this trend continues.
The Cyprus government has raised over 4 billion euros ($4.7 billion) since 2013 by selling European Union (EU) citizenships to billionaire Russian oligarchs and Ukrainian elite, a media report said.

Cyprus has granted the super rich the right to live and work throughout Europe in exchange for cash investment. More than 400 passports are understood to have been issued through the golden visa scheme last year alone, the Guardian report said on Sunday.

Launched in 2013, Cyprus current citizenship-by-investment scheme requires applicants to place 2 million euros in property or 2.5 million euros in companies or government bonds. There is no language or residency requirement, other than a visit once every seven years.

Prior to 2013, Cypriot citizenship was granted on a discretionary basis by ministers, in a less formal version of the current arrangement.

A leaked list of the names of hundreds of those who have benefited from these schemes includes prominent business-people, a former member of Russias parliament, the founders of Ukraines largest commercial bank and a gambling billionaire.

Ana Gomes, a Portuguese MP, described golden visas as absolutely immoral and perverse.

Im not against individual member states granting citizenship or residence to someone who would make a very special contribution to the country, be it in arts or science, or even in investment. But granting, not selling, she told the Guardian.

Later this year, the European parliament will debate an amendment tabled by Gomes requiring countries to carry out thorough security checks on golden visa applicants.

The European Commission has also ordered its own inquiry.

In response, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus said the programme was intended for genuine investors, who establish a business base and acquire a permanent residence in Cyprus.
A knife-wielding student was shot dead by the police at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, US, authorities said.

The Georgia Tech Police Department responded to a call about a person reportedly carrying a knife and a gun near a school dormitory early Sunday morning, reports Xinhua news agency.

Officers arrived at the scene and tried to make contact with Scout Schultz, 21, who was holding a knife, outside a campus parking garage, an official statement said.

Schultz was not complying with the police as he approached the officers before one of them fired, striking him. He was taken to a hospital where he died later.

Videos taken by witnesses showed Schultz appeared to be walking barefoot, with an object in his right hand. He can be heard yelling shoot me to the officers who urged him to drop the knife.

Our son, Scout Schultz, was killed by the Georgia Tech police, the victims father, William Schultz, posted on Facebook.

He had a tiny knife They didnt have to shoot him in the heart, but thats what they did.

Scout was a four-year computer engineering student from Lilburn.
The American Senate is poised to pass a defence policy bill that pumps $700 billion into the Pentagon budget, expands US missile defences in response to North Koreas growing hostility and refuses to allow excess military bases to be closed.

The legislation is expected to be approved on Monday by a wide margin in another burst of bipartisanship amid President Donald Trumps push for cooperation with congressional Democrats.

The 1,215-page measure defies a number of White House objections, but Trump hasn not threatened to veto the measure. The bill helps him honour a pledge to boost military spending by tens of billions of dollars.

Senator John McCain, the Armed Services Committee chairman battling an aggressive type of brain cancer, has guided the bill toward passage over the last week as he railed against Washington gridlock and political gamesmanship.

But McCain, R-Ariz, could not quell disputes among his colleagues over several contentious amendments that so far have been blocked from votes and failed to be added to the bill.

Among them is a proposal by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY, and Susan Collins, R-Maine, that would have protected transgender service members from being kicked out of the armed forces. Another amendment, from Senator Mike Lee, R-Utah, would prevent the government from detaining indefinitely US citizens apprehended on American soil who are suspected of supporting a terrorist group.

Approved by the Armed Services Committee by a vote of 27 -0 in late June, the Senate bill would provide USD 640 billion for core Pentagon operations, such as buying weapons and paying troops, and another USD 60 billion for wartime missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and elsewhere.

Trumps budget request sought USD 603 billion for basic functions and USD 65 billion for overseas missions.

With North Koreas nuclear program a clear threat to the US and its allies, the bill would provide USD 8.5 billion to strengthen US missile and defence systems. That is USD 630 million more than the Trump administration sought for those programmes, according to a committee analysis.

North Korea last week conducted its longest-ever test flight of a ballistic missile, firing an intermediate-range weapon over US ally Japan into the northern Pacific Ocean. The launch signaled both defiance of its rivals and a significant technological advance.

The legislation requires the Defence Department to deploy up to 14 additional ground-based interceptors at Fort Greely, Alaska, that will expand to 58 the number of interceptors designed to destroy incoming warheads. The department also is tasked with finding a storage site for as many as 14 spare interceptors, and senators envision an eventual arsenal of 100 with additional missile fields in the Midwest and on the East Coast.

The White House, in a statement issued earlier this month, called the order for more interceptors premature given the Pentagons ongoing review of missile defence programmes.

Although the bill calls for more military spending than at any point during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, major hurdles need to be cleared before all the extra money materialises. Congress would have to roll back a 2011 law that set strict limits on military spending. That is a tall order in the Senate, where support from Democrats will be necessary to get the 60 votes required to lift the so-called budget caps.

As their House counterparts did, the Senate bill rejects Defence Secretary Jim Mattis plan to launch a new round of base closings starting in 2021. He told lawmakers in June that closing excess installations would save USD 10 billion over a five-year period. Mattis said the savings could be used to acquire four nuclear submarines or dozens of jet fighters. But military installations are prized possessions in states and lawmakers refused to go along.
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that the US could stay in the Paris Agreement on climate change under right conditions.

Under the right conditions, the President said hes open to finding those conditions where we can remain engaged with others in what we all agree is a challenging issue, said Tillerson in an interview with CBS on Sunday.

Tillersons remarks were in line with previous statements from the US State Department which said that the US is open to re-engaging in the Paris Agreement if the US can identify terms that are more favourable to it, its business, its workers, its people, and its taxpayers, Xinhua news agency reported.

US President Donald Trump on June 1 announced his decision to withdraw from Paris Agreement, citing concerns about the accords threat to the US economy as a main reason for the withdrawal.

The cost to the economy at this time (by 2040) would be close to $3 trillion in lost GDP and 6.5 million industrial jobs, said Trump then, citing figures from a disputed study commissioned by the American Council for Capital Formation and the US Chamber of Commerce, both known for lobbying against climate regulations.

The decision to withdraw fulfilled a crucial campaign promise by Trump, who once called climate change a hoax.

In his first budget request, Trump also proposed a 31 per cent reduction in funding the US Environment Protection Agency.

Yet, despite his decision to leave the Paris Agreement, Trump would stick to the four-year-long withdrawal process stipulated by the Paris Agreement, which means that the US withdrawal wont take effect till November 2020, about two months away from the end of his first term.
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 ...
By PTI: Chennai, Sep 18 (PTI) Cracking the whip, Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal today disqualified 18 AIADMK MLAs owing allegiance to "removed" party leader TTV Dhinakaran.

The action against the 18 MLAs, who had revolted against Chief Minister K Palaniswami last month, was taken under anti-defection and disqualification rules of 1986 formed in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, said a statement from Assembly Secretary K Bhoopathy.

advertisement

The MLAs who have been disqualified with effect from today are Thangatamilselvan, R Murugan, Mariappan Kennedy, K Kathirkamu, C Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P Palaniappan, V Senthil Balaji, S Muthiah, P Vetrivel, NG Parthiban, M Kothandapani, TA Elumalai, M Rengasamy, R Thangadurai, R Balasubramani, SG Subramanian, R Sundarraj and K Uma Maheswari.

The said MLAs, besides another, had on August 22 met the Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar and conveyed that they had lost confidence in Palaniswami, who is facing a challenge from Dhinakaran.

One of the dissident MLAs, SKT Jakkaiyan, had later switched camps to support Palaniswami. These MLAs had since been demanding the removal of Chief Minister. The August 22 meeting had come a day after the formal merger of the two factions led by Palaniswami and then rebel leader and now Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam. Earlier, Chief Government Whip S Rajendran had urged the Speaker to disqualify the said MLAs for "anti-party activities" following their revolt against the Chief Minister. Though the Speaker had issued notices to all the dissident MLAs seeking their individual presence, they had, however, not turned up. A resolution adopted at a meeting chaired by Palaniswami on August 28 had said Dhinakaran was "removed" from the post of Deputy General Secretary.

Opposition parties have since been insisting the Governor direct a floor test for the Palaniswami government for proving its majority in the Assembly. In the 234-member House, AIADMK has a strength of 134 MLAs. The RK Nagar seat fell vacant last year following the death of then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. Opposition has a strength of 98 including DMKs 89. Congress 8 and IUML one. PTI SA TVS ROH DV

--- ENDS ---
But the tribe has a long way to go
By PTI: (Attn EDS: adding quotes, details)

Chennai, Sep 18 (PTI) Eighteen rebel AIADMK MLAs were today disqualified by Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal amid the power tussle between chief minister K Palaniswami and sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran.

Dhinakaran said his MLAs will approach the court against the disqualification even as the rebels dubbed the move as a "murder of democracy".

advertisement

"Our MLAs will move the court and we will get justice," he told reporters at Kancheepuram district.

The action against the 18 MLAs, who had revolted against Palaniswami last month, was taken under anti-defection and disqualification rules of 1986, said a statement from Assembly Secretary K Bhoopathy.

It said the rules were in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. "With the Honourable Speaker ordering for the disqualification of MLAs from September 18, 2017, they have lost their membership," of the House, the statement said.

MLAs who have been disqualified are Thangatamilselvan, R Murugan, Mariappan Kennedy, K Kathirkamu, C Jayanthi Padmanabhan, P Palaniappan, V Senthil Balaji, S Muthiah, P Vetrivel, NG Parthiban, M Kothandapani, TA Elumalai, M Rengasamy, R Thangadurai, R Balasubramani, SG Subramanian, R Sundarraj and K Uma Maheswari.

Decrying the Speakers move, Vetrivel said, "This is the height of mistakes being committed by those in power," in an apparent reference to Palaniswami.

"This is the height of mistakes being committed by those in power...It is not easy to disqualify even one MLA...This is murder of democracy," he said in response to the disqualification of the 18 MLAs including himself.

He said it was for the court to decide whether or not the disqualification is valid.

"According to us, it is not valid," he added. To a question, he declined to spell out his factions next course of action, saying "not everything can be revealed now."

He, however, said, "let the floor test happen."

The action was taken to ensure the governments survival in a possible floor test since Palaniswami did not have the required 117 MLAs support in the 234-member House, he claimed.

Dhinakaran loyalist and Perambur MLA, P Vetrivel, said they will move the court "as soon as possible" against Dhanapals decision.

The 18 MLAs, who were disqualified today besides another, had on August 22 met the Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar and conveyed that they had lost confidence in Palaniswami.

advertisement

One of the dissident MLAs, STK Jakkaiyan, had later switched camps to support Palaniswami.

These MLAs had since been demanding the removal of Chief Minister and have been hopping from resort to resort in Puducherry and Coorg apparently not to be persuaded to join the Palaniswami camp.

Their August 22 meeting with Rao had come a day after the formal merger of the two factions led by Palaniswami and then rebel leader and now Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam.

Earlier, Chief Government Whip S Rajendran had urged the Speaker to disqualify the said MLAs for "anti-party activities" following their revolt against the Chief Minister.

Though the Speaker had issued notices to all the dissident MLAs seeking their individual presence, they had, however, not turned up. But Jakkaiyan had met the Speaker and given an explanation.

A resolution adopted at a meeting chaired by Palaniswami on August 28 had said Dhinakaran was "removed" from the post of Deputy General Secretary.

Opposition parties have since been insisting the Governor direct a floor test for the Palaniswami government for proving its majority in the Assembly.

advertisement

In the 234-member House, AIADMK has a strength of 134 MLAs.

The RK Nagar seat fell vacant last year following the death of then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

The Opposition has a strength of 98 including DMKs 89. Congress 8 and IUML one. PTI SA TVS ROH DV

--- ENDS ---
Bengaluru based real estate firm Sobha Limited's Rs 62 crore share buyback offer opens for subscription on Sept 19. The company is looking to buy 14.58 lakh equity shares at Rs 425 per share, amounting to 1.5 per cent of the company's total paid-up equity share capital.

Sobha's share buyback is small compared to software services exporter, Infosys' Rs 13,000 crore buyback announced earlier this year. But it shows companies, big and small, have caught a fancy for buying back shares in a big way to reward their investors.

Between January-August 2017, 38 companies announced buyback offers worth Rs 31,040 crore, eclipsing the 37 offers worth Rs 28,234 crore in the whole of 2016 according to data from Prime Database, which tracks capital market activity.

Share buybacks are a way companies can distribute cash to their shareholders, just like a dividend. Buybacks also give an option for the shareholders to sell their shares in part or full through this route, where the price offered by the company may be slightly higher than the prevailing market price. But, why are so many companies buying back shares?

There are multiple reasons behind a company's decision to buyback shares. It may have huge amount of cash, and may want to return some of it to investors. The promoters may believe that the stock is undervalued at a particular point of time and therefore may offer to buyback a portion of shares at a price higher than market price, or the company may be finding limited investment or expansion opportunities and so, may chose to utilise its cash to payback shareholders instead.

In any case, a share buyback would reduce the total number of outstanding shares in the market, thus improving the company's earnings per share (EPS). This will benefit shareholders who stay invested in the company.

Announcement of a buyback could send various signals to investors ranging from an optimistic view (if undervaluation of stock is cited as the reason for the buyback followed by company insiders not participating in the buyback or actually shoring up their holdings) to a neutral to pessimistic view (if surplus cash generation and inability to deploy cash in business is cited as the reason for the buyback followed by company insiders participating in the buyback), noted Vinod Karki, vice president at ICICI Securities.

But another major reason behind the surge in buybacks, according to market experts, is related to the change in taxation norms for dividends in 2016 Union budget.

Income from dividends is typically taxed by way of a dividend distribution tax (DDT). In the 2016 Union budget, an additional tax at 10 per cent of the gross amount of dividend was levied on those receiving dividends more than Rs 10 lakh per annum.

The dividends in excess of Rs 10 lakh per year would thus attract an effective tax of more than 32 per cent, which includes DDT of 20.90 per cent payable by the company distributing dividend and additional tax of 10 per cent (plus surcharge and cess) on shareholders levied in the budget.

In comparison, a company doesn't pay any tax on buyback of shares. Plus, long term capital gains on transfer of equity shares, if held for more than one year, and securities transactions tax are also exempted from tax. Short term capital gains are subject to a tax of about 15 per cent.

Thus, one can see that purely on the basis of tax, share buybacks are much more favourable than dividends.

In 2014-15, there were only 10 buybacks worth Rs 605 crore. In 2015-16, there were 16 buybacks worth Rs 1,834 crore. Last financial year (2016-17) it rose sharply to 49 buybacks worth Rs 34,468 crore. Between April-August this fiscal year, there have been 20 issues amounting to buybacks worth Rs 24,215 crore, according to Prime Database.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently expressed concern over the sharp rise in buybacks, which had surpassed the total fresh capital market fund raising in the last two years.

The amount, which went back to investors was 1.5 times that of raised (equity capital). More money is being returned to investors against money raised, said Ajay Tyagi, chairman of SEBI.

According to Tyagi, the rise in share buybacks was a reflection of constraints in investment opportunities. He was hopeful that the situation would change with more initial public offerings being planned in the coming months.

The top software exporters, TCS, Infosys and Wipro, all announced huge share buybacks this year amid uncertainty in the overall IT environment particularly in the US, their biggest market.

The rise in share buybacks has also caught the eye of the taxman. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is reportedly examining if buybacks can be excluded from the exemption they currently get on long term capital gains tax.

If the tax department does have its way then share buybacks could also attract a long term capital gains tax and that would force the companies to rethink on their strategies once again.
Rolling Stone, the iconic 50-year-old magazine of music and counter-culture, is putting itself up for sale amid an increasingly uncertain outlook, its founder said.



Jann Wenner, who started Rolling Stone in 1967 as a hippie student in Berkeley, California and now runs it with his son Gus said that the future looked tough for a family-run publisher.



"There's a level of ambition that we can't achieve alone," Gus Wenner said.



"So we are being proactive and want to get ahead of the curve," he said.



One of the most influential magazines covering rock music, Rolling Stone has also been a home for experimental writers such as the gonzo journalist Hunter S Thompson.



But the magazine's reputation and finances were badly damaged when it retracted a 2014 story about an alleged gang rape at the University of Virginia, with a review finding that Rolling Stone did not undertake basic journalistic procedures to verify the facts.



Rolling Stone last year sold a 49 per cent stake to a Singaporean music and technology start-up, BandLab Technologies, which is headed by Kuok Meng Ru, the scion of one of Asia's richest families.



It was not immediately known if Kuok would want to take a controling stake in Rolling Stone.



The Wenner family earlier this year sold its other two titles  celebrity magazine US Weekly and lifestyle monthly Men's Journal - to American Media, Inc, a publisher of supermarket tabloids including The National Enquirer.



If American Media, Inc, were interested in Rolling Stone, it would mark a sharp change in owners' ideologies.



The tabloid empire is led by David Pecker, an ardent ally of President Donald Trump, while Rolling Stone tilts strongly to the left and has featured lengthy interviews with Democratic presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.



Jann Wenner, 71, who is also a key force behind the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, said that he hoped to keep an editorial role at Rolling Stone but that the decision would be up to its new owner.
A state funeral will be accorded to Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh and the national flag will fly at half mast at all government buildings in New Delhi today in his honour.

The last rites of Singh, who passed away at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday, would be performed at city's Brar Square at 10 am today.

"As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, a state funeral will be accorded and national flag will fly half-mast on the day of the funeral (September 18) in Delhi at all buildings where it is flown regularly," a home ministry spokesperson said.

Singh's mortal remains are being taken to the funeral site from his residence in a gun carriage procession.

A gun salute will be given and a fly past will be organised before the final rites.

Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died on Saturday at the age of 98.

He was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the IAF when he was only 44 years old, a task he carried out with elan. He was the chief of the IAF when it found itself at the forefront of the 1965 conflict.

Singh, who had flown more than 60 different types of aircrafts, had played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world.

Known as a man of few words, he was not only a fearless fighter pilot but had profound knowledge about air power which he applied in a wide spectrum of air operations. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian honour, in 1965.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's packed trip to the UN began with a morning trilateral with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono in New York.

Without actually naming China, the official statement released by them made it clear that the three were critical of the Asian giant's rising aspirations and were forming a united front to counter it. "The three ministers exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation," said the statement, adding that they emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law, and peaceful resolution of disputes. They agreed that on connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was important.

China's ambitious Belt and Road initiative was criticised by India as it proposed a route through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, treading on India's sovereignty. India had, earlier this year, boycotted China's grand OBOR meeting, although many of its immediate neighbours like Nepal participated.

China's refusal to accept the international ruling on the South China Sea has also caused consternation. During Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's recent visit to India, he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi stopped just short of mentioning the South China Sea in their joint statement, but the proposed development of the Pacific Indian Ocean maritime routes was clearly a counter to China's maritime expansion.

Abe's visit caused eyebrows to be raised in China, especially when the talks of Japan developing the northeast region came up. Japan has not yet indicated in what capacity this development will be, though it will be infrastructural. Japan has a historical connect with places like Imphal and Kohima.

China was quick to say that there should be no third country involvement in border disputes. The scars of the recent Doklam standoff still haven't healed completely and China is wary of India's closeness with Japan. Japan, which joined in the annual US-India Malabar naval exercise this year, is seeking a greater role in this exercise in the future.

The tilateral is no good news for the dragon, just as Russia's bear hug with China is a cause of equal concern for India. Changing global dynamics has thrown up new alliances, keeping the world on tenterhooks.

The ministers also deplored North Korea's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable. The nudge towards the Chinese hand in North Korea's nuclear programme was clear.

Later in the day, Swaraj also met with Tunisian foreign minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutan Prime minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, and Bolivian foreign minister Fernando Mamani.

The tete-a-tete with Tshering is also very important for India, post Doklam. India needs to keep Bhutan convinced that it can protect the mountain nation, so that it does not lean closer to China.
With the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs supporting party's ousted deputy general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran, the Edappadi K. Palanisamy government in Tamil Nadu has once again gained an upper hand in the 234-member assembly. After their disqualification, the magic number in the state assembly has reduced to 110, while the government already has 111 MLAs by its side.

Even as the ruling AIADMK breathes a sigh of relief, the disqualification of MLAs and the pending petitions in the Madras High Court filed by the opposition DMK and the Dhinakaran faction legislators loom large over the government leading to a constitutional crisis in the state.

In a petition filed by the DMK and the Dhinakaran faction MLAs asking for a floor test, the court had said that no action shall be taken until September 20. In yet another case pertaining to the disqualification of 21 DMK MLAs for allegedly bringing Gutka into the assembly for raising an issue, the court has issued an order staying any action on them.

The MLAs loyal to Dhinakaran were disqualified by Speaker P. Dhanapal under Schedule 10 of the Indian Constitution, which deals with the anti-defection law.

"The Speaker has taken action under Schedule 10 of the Constitution, and therefore the following MLAs are disqualified and therefore they lose their MLA post," said a statement issued by assembly secretary K. Boopathy.

The MLAs are S. Thangatamilselvan (Andipatti), R. Murugan (Harur), S. Mariappan Kennedy (Manamadurai), K. Kadirkamu (Periyakulam), Jayanthi Padmanabhan (Gudiyattam), P. Palaniappan (Pappireddypatti), V. Senthil Balaji (Aravakurichi), S. Muthiah (Paramakudi), P. Vetrivel (Perambur), N.G. Pathiban (Sholingur), M. Kodandapani (Tiruporur), T.A. Elumalai (Poonamallee), M. Rengasamy (Thanjavur), R. Thangadurai (Nilakottai), R Balasubramani (Ambur), S.G. Subramanian (Sattur), R. Sundaraj (Ottapidaram) and Uma Maheswari (Vilathikulam).

Later in the evening, the assembly secretary wrote to the Election Commission of India, asking it to notify the vacancy in these 18 constituencies.

Meanwhile, the CB-CID of Tamil Nadu police on Monday went in search of Senthil Balaji in a Rs 4.25 crore cheating case. The police action was based on a petition filed by an employee in the transport department, who had alleged that Balaji had taken Rs 4.25 crore as bribe to appoint a technical staff in the department when he was the transport minister during 2011-2016 in Jayalalithaa's cabinet.

The EPS faction, say the seniors in the AIADMK, has clearly been gaining upper hand. The disqualification and the cases against Senthil Balaji and Pappiredipatti MLA Palaniappan are only to make them squirm and defect from the TTV camp, says a senior leader.

The MLAs, however, have knocked at the door of judiciary to get their disqualification order cancelled.

The Speakers action of disqualifying the MLAs will not stand in the court as the anti-defection law doesnt apply here. The MLAs in their petition to the governor have only said that they want the chief minister to be replaced and made it very clear that they are part of the AIADMK. So it remains to be seen how the court acts, says advocate Tamil Mani.

Yeddyurappa case

It may be noted that in the B.S. Yeddyurappa case in Karnataka in May 2011, the Supreme Court had quashed the Speakers decision to disqualify 11 rebel BJP MLAs. These MLAs, along with five independent MLAs, were disqualified by the Speaker, a day before the no-confidence motion was moved in the assembly by the Yeddyurappa government. It was alleged that these MLAs were disqualified to stop them from voting against the government as all of them had withdrawn their support to the government. The MLAs went to the Karnataka High Court, where there was a split verdict. The MLAs then moved the Supreme Court contending that their disqualification had raised substantial questions of constitutional and administrative laws of public importance having serious implications for the democratic representative government and involving an interpretation of the provisions of the Tenth Schedule and the rules made there-under.

Tamil Nadu government, however, argues that their case is different from that in Karnataka. The Yeddyurappa judgement is being quoted by everyone. But here the Speaker gave ample time for the rebel MLAs. Cracking the whip did not happen overnight, says minister Jayakumar.

In his disqualification order, the Speaker has also mentioned that the Yeddyurappa judgement refers to a dissent within a party as against defection. The order of the Speaker was set aside in the judgement as he had failed to follow the required procedures. But in this case, the required documents were given to the MLAs and they have filed not one but three reply statements along with documents. Therefore the judgement relied on by the MLAs is on a different set of facts and the same cannot be relied on for the present circumstances.

Though there are legal options available for the TTV. faction MLAs in the court, it is advantage EPS anyway. By disqualifying these MLAs, the EPS faction has already got the magic number if at all the court orders for a floor test on September 20. More than the Yeddyurappa case, the EPS faction MLAs tend to take precedence from the recent Uttarkhand MLAs case where the Supreme Court declined interim relief for the nine congress MLAs who were disqualified.

Though there are ample number of legal options for both the EPS and TTV factions, the state is heading for a full blown constitutional crisis which will raise issues between the legislature and the judiciary.

This looks like the state of Tamil Nadu is heading for a full blown constitutional crisis. When the matter is seized off by the Madras High Court, no action can be taken by the Speaker on any issue. Though there is not a stay as far as the disqualification is concerned the crux of the judiciary is that not to take any action as there is already a petition pending in the court seeking floor test which has been posted to September 20. By disqualifying the 18 MLAs it seems the office of Speaker has decided to have a head on collision with the judiciary. In the latest judgment on anti-defectionYeddyurappa casethe SC clearly ruled that 11 MLAs were disqualified strictly to protect the chief minister. There is still hope on the judiciary, says senior journalist R. Ramasubramanian.
BJP Karnataka state president B.S. Yeddyurappa will not contest from the Shikaripura (Shimoga) constituency in the 2018 assembly polls. The Shimoga MP, elected seven times from the same constituency since 1983, will move out of his comfort zone and contest from Vijayapure or Bagalkot districts in north Karnataka to boost the party prospects in the crucial polls.

North Karnataka is an electorally significant region dominated by the Lingayat community. The BJP leadership is reported to have asked the Lingayat strongman and the party's chief ministerial candidate to contest from the north as it could impact 12 districts (96 constituencies), consolidating the dominant Lingayat votes.

Flummoxed by the development, the Congress is considering pitching a heavyweight against Yeddyurappa; the obvious choice is Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself. Realising the significance of the region, which could swing the polls, the Congress had created an additional working president's post in the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee for S.R. Patil, whose job will be to focus on north Karnataka.

However, the BJP's new strategy of fielding the tallest leader from the Lingayat community has rattled the Congress. The party is now desperate to instil confidence among its voters by fielding a popular face.

However, the million dollar question remains. Will Siddaramaiah be agreeable to such a risky gamble? He had already announced that he will vacate his current seat (Varuna) for his son Yathindra, and that he himself will contest from the neighbouring Chamundeshwari constituency in Mysore.

Meanwhile, the demand for a separate religion status for Lingayats has turned ugly and divided the politically and numerically strong community, upsetting the influential Lingayat mutts. Many in the community suspect a Congress hand in the stir. This sentiment might prove to be a major setback for Siddaramaiah and his party in the Mysore region.

Yeddyurappa proclaiming that he is prepared to contest from north Karnataka to "strengthen his party" hints at the BJP's shifting gameplan. "I am ready to contest from Vijayapure or Bagalkot, and I am ready to face even the chief minister (Siddaramaiah)," said Yeddyurappa, who is touring Kalburgi.

The disruptive strategy of the saffron party has unnerved ticket aspirants within the party, faced as they are with the possibility of contesting from "alien" territories.

Future considerations could also have influenced the BJP central leadership's decision to shift Yeddyurappa from his hometurf. The veteran and his son B.Y. Raghavendra have been holding the Shikaripura assembly seat and the Shimoga parliamentary seat alternately in the last two terms. The party is hoping to groom second rung leadership in Shimoga, considering Yeddyurappa's age. Come February, he will turn 75.
The UN office in Bangladesh on Monday said around 415,000 members of the Muslim Rohingya minority community have crossed into the country from Myanmar over the last three weeks.

Around 3,000 more people had arrived since Sunday, and Monday saw a smaller number of boats carrying Rohingyas travelling to Bangladesh compared to the previous days, the Inter-Sectoral Coordination Group said in its latest report.

"Cross-border movement on September 17 was noted to be slower than on previous days. Smaller numbers of people reportedly arrived in Cox's Bazar by boats," Efe news cited the group's report as saying.

It added that around 225,000 refugees8,000 more than Sundaywere living in spontaneous shelters, around 161,0003,000 more than the day beforewere in pre-existing camps and another 29,000 Rohingyas were housed in host communities.

"There is an increase in internal mobility within Cox's Bazar, new arrivals are reported to be moving from spontaneous settlements to makeshift settlements," the report said.

Around 415,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh since August 25, in the wake of a violent military offensive launched after Rohingya rebels attacked police posts.

The UN office in Bangladesh believes the number of refugees in Bangladesh could double in the coming weeks. It earlier said the armed offensive could be considered "ethnic cleansing".
Facing an escalating nuclear threat from North Korea and the mass flight of minority Muslims from Myanmar, world leaders gather at the United Nations starting tomorrow to tackle these and other tough challenges, from the spread of terrorism to a warming planet.

The spotlight will be on US President Donald Trump and France's new leader, Emmanuel Macron, who will both be making their first appearance at the General Assembly.

They will be joined by more than 100 heads of state and government, including Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, one of Africa's longest-serving leaders who is said to be bringing a 70-member entourage.

While Trump's speeches and meetings will be closely followed, it will be North Korea, which Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls "the most dangerous crisis that we face today," that will be most carefully watched.

No official event addressing Pyongyang's relentless campaign to develop nuclear weapons capable of hitting the United States is on the UN agenda, but it is expected to be the No 1 issue for most leaders.

Not far behind will be the plight of Myanmar's Rohingya Muslims, victims of what Guterres calls a campaign of ethnic cleansing that has driven nearly 400,000 to flee to Bangladesh in the past three weeks.

The Security Council, in its first statement on Myanmar in nine years, condemned the violence and called for immediate steps to end it. British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson is hosting a closed meeting on the crisis Monday, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation's contact group on the Rohingyas is scheduled to meet Tuesday.

Guterres said leaders would also be focusing on a third major threat, climate change. The number of natural disasters has nearly quadrupled and he pointed to unprecedented weather events in recent weeks from Texas, Florida and the Caribbean to Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Sierra Leone.

While Trump has announced that the United States will pull out of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, Macron will be hosting a meeting Tuesday to spur its implementation. And a late addition to the hundreds of official meetings and side events during the ministerial week is a high-level session Monday on the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma.

Several terrorism-related events are on the agenda. Macron is holding a meeting Monday with leaders of five African nations, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad that are putting together a 5,000-strong force to fight the growing threat from extremists in the vast Sahel region.

A side event Wednesday on "Preventing Terrorist Use of the Internet" will be attended by senior representatives of major social media companies. Co-hosts Britain, France and Italy said a global response is needed "to make the online space a hostile environment for terrorists."

Trump has accused Iran of supporting terrorists and is threatening to rip up the 2015 deal to rein in its nuclear program. With a US decision due in October, ministers from the six parties to the agreement are expected to meet next week. The five others strongly support the deal.

Trump has also been critical of the United Nations and has promised to cut the US contribution to its budget, which is the largest. So some diplomats were surprised that the United States would sponsor an event Monday on reforming the 193-member world body.

Trump and Guterres will speak, and the United States has asked all countries to sign a declaration on UN reforms. Over 100 have added their names, but Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that "we are not sure we will sign this declaration."

He said that while "lots of ideas contained in this document are important and look similar to what the secretary-general proposes," UN reforms should result from negotiations among all countries instead of from "a declaration of like-minded countries."
Two unidentified persons were booked for mixing rat poison in the water cooler of a madrassa in Agra. The madrassa is run by a charitable organisation which is headed by Salma Ansari, wife of ex Vice President Hamid Ansari.

By Siraj Qureshi: Children are often soft targets.

In Agra, two men were caught trying to mix rat poison in a water cooler in a madrassa. The madrassa is said to be run by former Vice-President Hamid Ansari's wife, Salma Ansari.

The Chacha Nehru madrassa is run by Aligarh's Al Noor Charitable Society which is headed by Salma Ansari.

According to the available information, the Al Noor Charitable Society, chaired by Salma Ansari runs the madrassa in the Dodhpur area. A class 7 student Afzal first spotted the two youth leaning on top of the water tank. He raised an alarm despite being threatened by one of the youths with a country made pistol.

Photo credit: Kamir

advertisement

Unsuccessful in their bid to poison over 4000 students, the two youth escaped from the madrassa, jumping over a broken part of the wall. However, the powder they were trying to mix in the water fell in the madrassa campus.

A case has been registered under Section 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) and Section 506 (criminal intimidation) by the police against two unidentified persons. The police also said that the water cooler has been sealed and the samples have been sent to the Forensic Lab for testing.

The warden of the madrassa, Junaid Siddiqui, told India Today that the powder was a rat poison from a popular pesticide brand and could have proven a serious threat to the lives of over 4,000 children had the two men succeeded.

Photo credit: Kamir

UP Sarvdaliyay Muslim Action Committee District President, Syed Irfan Salim, told India Today that the Ryan International school incident, where 7-year-old Pradhyumn lost his life, is still under a shadow of doubt.

If this attempt to poison 4000 madrassa students had succeeded, it would have resulted in a death toll so big that it would have shaken even the strongest of hearts. He said that there is a necessity to ensure the security of the madrassas as they could easily become targets of extremists in order to fuel communal tension.

Syed Salim said that not only the madrassas but every educational institution should be made secure, as children are always soft targets and we do not want a repetition of what happened in the Peshawar Army School. If something had happened to these kids, it would have become front page news on the national media, but because the bid was foiled, nobody seems to care about it.

He demanded that the two unidentified youth should be identified and arrested as soon as possible so that the real masterminds of this foiled act of terror could be exposed.

--- ENDS ---
Shabnam Yusuf had an arranged marriage in December 2016. Twenty-one years old then, the Delhi girl wanted to pursue higher studies. But her parents told her they had found an excellent match for her. He had a good job at a pharmaceutical company, they said. Reluctantly, she agreed. She had long conversations with her fiance on the phone, and he seemed nice.

The nice man turned into a beast on their wedding night, and her romantic idea of marital bliss died a brutal death. Shabnam pleaded to her husband that she was unwell, but he did not listen. He raped her several times, until she fainted. The next day, she told the women of the house what happened. They said it was normal, and remarked she might not have been prepared for it.

Shabnam left her husbands house after a few months. As her parents were not supportive, she took refuge in a womens shelter. She went to the police, who filed a case under Domestic Violence Act, and attempted mediation between the couple. But that was not what she wanted. She wanted justice.

However, according to Indias rape laws, Shabnams husband did not commit any crime. Marital rape is not recognised as a crime under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code, which is invoked in cases of rape. An exception to marital rape has been written into the law as Sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his own wife, the wife not being under fifteen years of age, is not rape. Shabnam has filed a public interest litigation in the Delhi High Court, asking the exception to marital rape to be struck down as unconstitutional.

The rape laws make a distinction between rapes by strangers, rapes by estranged husbands and rapes by husbands. Section 375 and Section 376 are invoked in full in cases of stranger rapes. When a woman accuses her estranged husband of raping her, the crime is bailable and the prescribed penalty is two to seven years in jail. However, if a woman accuses her husband of raping her, it cannot be taken up under these sections.

If the distinction goes, the definition of rape, broadened after the gang-rape of a woman in a bus in Delhi in 2012, would apply to marital rape also. If a man forcibly has sexual intercourse with his wife without her consent, or has any other forced penetrative sexual activity such as anal sex, oral sex or insertion of a foreign body into her vagina, urethra or anus, she will be able to file a case of rape. If the woman is unconscious when the sexual act is performed on her, that could also amount to rape.

Aayush Goel

Many lawyers and activists say the exception to marital rape is arbitrary, and unfair to married women. It is considered a relic of colonial law dating back to what Justice Mathew Hale of England wrote in the 1600s: The husband cannot be guilty of a rape committed by himself upon his lawful wife, for by their mutual matrimonial consent and contract, the wife hath given herself in kind unto the husband, whom she cannot retract.

A married woman can take recourse under other laws, such as the Domestic Violence Act or Section 377, which deals with unnatural sex. She can seek divorce on grounds of cruelty. The Domestic Violence Act provides civil remedies for all sexual abuse at home. Under Section 498A, the dowry law, the maximum punishment for cruelty is three years in jail. The maximum punishment under Section 354, which is for unwelcome physical contact and advances, is seven years. Under Section 377, the maximum punishment is life imprisonment, but it does not distinguish between consent and no consent, and it criminalises only unnatural sex. However, for rape, the punishment ranges from seven years in jail to life imprisonment and even death penalty where the victim dies or is left in a vegetative state.

Also, a survivor of marital rape is not entitled to the states protective provisions such as compensation, free medical treatment, protocols for medical examination, protection of identity and legal assistance.

This discrimination has been challenged in the Delhi High Court by a clutch of petitions, including that of All India Democratic Womens Association, RIT Foundation and Forum to Engage Men. The plea is to declare the exception to marital rape in the rape laws as unconstitutional. The argument is that it violates Article 14 by denying the married woman equality in access to rape laws, discriminates against her and, hence, goes against Article 15, puts curbs on her right to freedom as protected under Article 19 by taking away the right to say no, and violates her right to life as protected under Article 21.

There is no rational basis for this classification, said lawyer Colin Gonsalves, who is representing Shabnam in the High Court. If under other laws, such as Section 354 and Section 377, there is no such exception, why do the rape laws make this distinction?

In the light of the Supreme Courts recent judgment on the right to privacy, it is argued that the married womans fundamental right to privacy is also breached. The judgment laid down that privacy included an individuals right over his or her bodily and mental integrity, the persons notion of gender, sexual autonomy, and the right to procreate.

Statistics reveal the enormity of the issue. According to a study done by the Research Institute for Compassionate Economics, married women in India are 40 times more likely to be raped, and one in every ten women faced sexual violence by their husbands. In 2005, just over 2 per cent of all rapes in India were by men other than husbands. It was also found that less than 1 per cent of rapes by husbands were reported.

According to a 2014 study carried out in nine states by the United Nations and International Center for Research on Women on intimate partner violence, a third of the men admitted to having forced sex on their wives, and a fifth of the women admitted to having experienced it. Also, 75 per cent of the men expected their partners to agree to sex. While Odisha and Uttar Pradesh had the highest incidence of intimate partner violence at 75 per cent, Punjab and Haryana followed at 43 per cent, and Maharashtra at 37 per cent.

Most domestic violence cases include sexual violence. Jagori, an NGO in Delhi, gets about 1,500 cases a year, and around 70 per cent of these pertain to domestic violence. About 90 per cent of the domestic violence cases involve marital rape. When we interact with these women, they gradually open up about having faced sexual violence, too, said Chaitali, a coordinator at Jagori. A much larger number would be going through it silently. There are many social pressures on the woman. She is afraid that if she says no she will be beaten up, or the husband will stop giving money or go to another woman, said Chaitali.

Marital rape is still a taboo subject for the woman to broach. Many women who seek help do not want to register a complaint. Recently, an NGO in Lucknow came across the case of a woman whose husband inserted a screwdriver into her vagina. But the woman did not want to register a case. She said she had two children and nowhere to go, said Apoorva Srivastava of the Association for Advocacy and Legal Initiatives.

Colin Gonsalves | Aayush Goel

Sangeeta Rana, a Delhiite who approached the Human Rights Law Network for help, had been married for seven years. She said she had been reduced to a sex slave. He comes home drunk and starts shouting at me and beats me up if I say no to sex. He has forced me into having anal sex also, said Sangeeta. The man would spit the gutka he was chewing into her mouth to torture her. However, lodging a police case was not an option as she and her two children were dependent on the man.

There are cases where the husband had not spared the wife even when she was pregnant, or forced sex on her during menstruation or when she was unwell. The case of a man accused of sodomising his pregnant wife came to Additional Sessions Judge Kamini Laus court in Delhi in 2016. The man allegedly boasted about his act in front of his nine-year-old son. Lau rejected the mans bail plea, invoking Section 377, even as the wife, heavily pregnant, came to the court and pleaded for his release saying she was in a state of destitution. Lau said she understood that the woman was under pressure from her in-laws.

It can get extremely brutal. The case of a woman who was forced into having sex just three days after a caesarean prompted the RIT Foundation to petition the Delhi High Court.

Marital rape has much to with expression of the mans dominance over his wife, to show the woman her place or punish her. Relationship expert Rajan Bhonsle said most husbands believed that their wives could not refuse sex. The social conditioning is such that the man cannot take no for an answer, while women are taught not to say no, he said. According to him, marital rape is more traumatic than stranger rape. The woman goes through it every day for years. She cannot complain and there is no escape, he said.

The governments affidavit in the case states that criminalisation of marital rape may destabilise the institution of marriage apart from being an easy tool for harassing their husbands. Even the last government, despite its assurances, did not implement the Justice J.S. Verma Committee recommendation to strike down the exception.

Former Mizoram governor Swaraj Kaushal was among those who opposed criminalisation of marital rape. There will be more husbands in the jail, than in the house, he tweeted. There is nothing like marital rape. Our homes should not become police stations.

Mariam Dhwale of AIDWA said the opposition reflected a patriarchal mindset. Crimes against women are seen as acceptable. And, any law meant for protection of women has come after a long struggle, she said.

Rebutting the argument that marriages would be destabilised, Supreme Court lawyer Karuna Nundy asked, Does rape destabilise the institution of marriage or a complaint of rape? What concept of marriage is the government protectingthat which by law includes rape? Nundy appears for AIDWA and RIT Foundation in the marital rape petition in the high court.

Some of the opposition to a change in law is based on the belief that it will not help women any better than the existing laws do. Union Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi had said that women should file complaints under the existing laws. Womens rights lawyer Flavia Agnes said she did not believe in placing rape on a pedestal above the other crimes within marriage. For a woman who is facing domestic violence, it is equally violating if her skull is fractured, her spine is broken, her cornea damaged or liver is injured or her vagina is penetrated forcefully, she said.

Since marital rape is dealt with under the Domestic Violence Act, a question asked is in what form it would be included in the IPC. Marital rape being part of domestic violence, and since there is an independent legislation on domestic violence, a moot question that arises is how a definition of marital rape will be carved into the IPC, said Shantaram Naik, former chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice. He said the issue could be discussed only on the basis of a draft legislation that defines marital rape under the IPC.

Another crucial issue is proving marital rape in the court. The governments affidavit asks what evidences the courts will rely upon as there can be no lasting evidence in case of sexual acts between a man and his own wife.

Lawyers, however, say evidence can be found in the form of signs of struggle, broken objects, or the womans screams that have been heard. The examination of the evidence in court is gruelling and ruthless. The womans testimony has to be clear, consistent and convincing. In the end, the judge should not have any reasonable doubt with her testimony, said Gonsalves.

There is a concern that if marital rape is criminalised, it will be misused by women to harass their husbands. The exception is meant as safeguard against misuse. Law cannot be made for one person or a few persons if a greater number might misuse it, said Niladri Shekhar Das of Save Indian Family Foundation, an NGO campaigning for mens rights. This is, however, countered by the argument that there are many other laws that are misused, but nobody asks for them to be repealed. Even if one woman wants to make use of the rape laws to bring her abusive husband to book, she should have the backing of law, said Olivia Bang of the Human Rights Law Network.

The time has come for a legal decision on whether non-inclusion of marital rape in the rape laws is indeed unconstitutional. However, there can be no easy resolution, given the complex social and cultural

realities.

Some names have been changed to protect identity.
The University of California, Berkeley, is renowned as a centre that nurtures liberal thought and encourages questioning of the establishment. When Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi took to the podium at Berkeleys International House, it was expected that he would be questioned on what was wrong with the Indian democracy, which included dynastic politics and corruption in Indian polity.

These questions were, of course, asked of the 47-year-old Congress scion, who is himself the foremost dynast in Indian polity and whose party lost the 2014 Lok Sabha elections primarily because of the stigma of corruption. Dressed in a white kurta-pyjama paired with a black Nehru jacket, Rahul was ready to answer all these questions. More importantly, he came prepared to question the policies and politics of the Narendra Modi government at the cost of being criticised for doing so on foreign soil.

It was still very early in New Delhi when Rahuls quotes from Berkeley began trickling in. And, soon, the Congress and the BJP were all ears. This trip to the US had generated much mirth beforehandBJP leaders cracked jokes about him going there to learn about artificial intelligence, and Congress leaders wanted him here as assembly elections were around the corner. Ironically, the same visit kicked up a political storm back home.

He took everyone by surprise as he attacked the Modi government and said he was ready to become Congress president and the prime minister candidate for the Lok Sabha elections in 2019. He was also upfront on dynastic politics and tried to lay the ghost of the anti-Sikh riots to rest by condemning it unequivocally.

Rahuls great-grandfather Jawaharlal Nehru had also delivered a speech at Berkeley, and with the legacy of the countrys first prime minister seemingly under threat amidst what is being described as growing intolerance, it was pertinent he spoke on the theme.

What can destroy our momentum is the opposite energy: hatred, anger and violence and the politics of polarisation which has raised its ugly head in India today, Rahul said.

Defensive move: To defend the prime minister, the BJP deployed its best | PTI

The other main plank of Rahuls attack was the decline in economy. At a time when the government is finding it difficult to answer questions about the benefits of demonetisation, Rahul attacked the PM for taking ad hoc decisions in a reckless and dangerous manner. Demonetisation, a completely self-inflicted wound, caused approximately 2 per cent loss in Indias GDP, he said.

He said 30,000 new youngsters were joining the job market every day, and, yet, the government was creating only 500 jobs a day. He said the economic decline was worrying and had led to an upsurge of anger. He ripped into the hastily-applied GST, too.

Rahul also attacked the Modi government on its handling of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that the BJP had in just 30 days, by forming a government with the PDP, undone the work done by the United Progressive Alliance in nine years to bring peace to the valley. He also took on Modis foreign policy, saying that while relations with the US were on the upswing, India was losing old allies like Russia and was becoming increasingly isolated in the neighbourhood.

Rahul even accused Modi of running a propaganda machinery to sully his image. Theres a BJP machine, a thousand guys with computers, to abuse me, tell you I am reluctant, I am stupid... It is a tremendous machine. All day they spread abuse about me, and the operation is run by the gentleman who is running our country, he said.

As he took on Modi, it was clear that he had no hesitation in placing himself as the main opponent of the prime minister. His comfort level with the positioning was apparent as he admitted to Modis skills. I am an opposition leader. But Mr Modi is also my prime minister. Mr Modi has certain skills. He is a very good communicator, probably better than me, he said.

The onslaught rattled the BJP, which launched its top guns to mount a counter attack. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani called Rahul a failed dynast. To say that dynasty is the culture of India is an anomaly, she said. People occupying the top constitutional posts, be it President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu or the Prime Minister, they all come from humble backgrounds.

Looking ahead: Rahul, flanked by Sam Pitroda and Milind Deora (extreme right), at SunPower Corporation, Silicon Valley | @Rahulgandhi

BJP president Amit Shah said failed leaders were running off to the US to lecture as no one listened to them back home. Said BJP spokesperson G.V.L. Narasimha Rao, Rahul Gandhis statement is in complete variance with the reality of new India where merit leads over inheritance.

Rejecting the BJPs criticism, Congresss Jaiveer Shergill said: Questioning the government cannot be equated with insulting the country. Also, in todays age of technology, the physical location of where the point is made is irrelevant.

The joke in BJP circles is that Rahul is the saffron partys biggest asset. However, the party has often reacted to him in a seemingly disproportionate manner. Every time he has attacked Modi or the BJP, be it in Parliament or in election rallies, the BJP has gone after him. And, Irani, who lost to Rahul in Amethi in 2014, has been fielded as his prime attacker.

The one time that the BJP had really got rattled was when Rahul called the BJP government Suit Boot Ki Sarkar. The title is seen as having damaged Modis image and contributed to the partys failure in the assembly elections in Delhi in 2015. Ever since, Modi has been trying to project his government as being on the side of the underprivileged.

The BJP came into pole position after winning the Uttar Pradesh elections and forming the government in Bihar. Despite these highs, the BJP has been troubled of late by issues such as price rise, perceived failure of demonetisation, the economic downturn, apart from low employment opportunities. Significantly, in the aftermath of journalist Gauri Lankeshs murder, the social media wave has turned against the BJP.

And, though the two may not be connected, coming as it did a day after Rahuls speech, the saffron-affiliated ABVP lost to the Congresss student wing, NSUI, in the Delhi University Students Union elections, where it had been in power for four years.

Congressmen are happy that Rahul ended all speculation about stepping into Sonias shoes. By expressing his willingness to lead the Congress party, Rahul has energised the party. Now there is no room for ambiguity about leadership, said Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot. He said Rahuls willingness to be prime ministerial candidate would have a positive impact on the assembly polls in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh later this year, and Karnataka next year.

Rahul spoke with unusual candour on dynastic politics. Actually, most parties in India have that problem. So, dont give us stick. Mr Akhilesh Yadav is a dynast. Mr Stalin is a dynast. Mr Dhumals son is a dynast. Even Abhishek Bachchan is a dynast. That is how India runs. Dont get after me because that is how the entire country is running. By the way, last I recall, Mr Ambanis kids were running the business. And, that was also going on in Infosys.

However, political scientist Abhay Kumar Dubey of the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies said the statement was in bad taste. Dynasty militates against the very idea of democracy. He should rather have been critical of it, he said.

The organisational elections are getting over in October, and it is likely to culminate in an All India Congress Committee session where Rahul is set to take over as Congress president from his mother, Sonia Gandhi.

A crucial factor in the transition has been the concern among senior leaders about where will they be once Rahul takes over. They have unofficially often expressed doubts about Rahuls scheme of things and stated that they are more comfortable working with Sonia.

Rahul is certainly not oblivious to this feeling, and he addressed it at Berkeley. I still believe as many [young people] as possible should be pushed forward, he said. But, there is tremendous talent in the Congress party, with some of our senior people. And it is really unfair to say that just because you are slightly old, we are not going to utilise you. So, it is a mix. It is trying to make both these systems work together, both the young and the old work together.

This mix is already evident. If younger faces have been brought into the AICCsuch as R.P.N. Singh to oversee Jharkhand, K.C. Venugopal for Karnataka and Chella Kumar, instead of Digvijaya Singh, for Goasenior leaders like Ashok Gehlot (Gujarat) and Sushil Kumar Shinde (Himachal Pradesh) have been given the charge of election-bound states.

The energy of the young and the experience of the old have to go hand-in-hand. It is already happening. A young person like me has been put in charge of Mahila Congress, and I have got the opportunity to work with senior leaders of the Congress, said Sushmita Deb.

Rahul admitted the party had lost touch with the ground reality as it became arrogant, leading to its loss in the Lok Sabha elections. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi said, There is a strong, positive reception to what he said about the Congress. He showed remarkable candour in giving an insight into what is wrong with the Congress and what has to be done.

With the speech coming just about a month before Rahul is expected to take charge of the Congress, it is felt that he has in his speech laid out the template to be followed by the party as it takes on the BJP in the assembly elections as well as the Lok Sabha polls.

BJPS DISMAL MONSOON

* Murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh

* Questions over success of demonetisation, after the RBI report

* Failure to get its OBC constitutional bill passed in its original form

* GDP growth at three-year low of 5.7%

* Worrying employment trends

* Problems in GST implementation

* Supreme Court overruled governments objections to privacy as constitutional right

* Failure to defeat Sonia Gandhis political secretary Ahmed Patel in Rajya Sabha polls

* Kashmir crisis
Tamil Nadu police on Sunday intercepted AIADMK MLAs loyal to Dinakaran and, according to the legislators, threatened them with dire consequences if they did not switch sides to the Paliniswami-Panneerselvam camp of the party.

By Nolan Pinto: For more than a week, rebel AIADMK MLAs owing allegiance to TTV Dhinakaran have been sequestered in Paddington resort in Kushalnagar in Karnataka's Coorg district.

On Sunday, the MLAs decided to visit Talacauvery, the birth place of the contentious river Cauvery. From there, the MLAs visited the famous Abbey falls nearby.

Dr S Muthiah, one of the MLAs, told India Today that the group was "very happy" and in a "pleasant" mood during their trip.

advertisement

However, their joy was short-lived. On their way back from the Abbey falls, the MLAs were intercepted men who claimed to be police from Tamil Nadu.

The MLAs say that the men, who were in plainclothes, harassed them and threatened them with dire consequences if they did not switch sides to the Paliniswami-Panneerselvam camp of the AIADMK.

Senior MLA Thangamtamilselvam, on reaching the Paddington resort late in the evening, expressed anger claiming that the police was being misused by the Paliniswami-Panneerselvam camp.

India Today was able to confirm that the MLAs had indeed been accosted by personnel from the Tamil Nadu police.

A police official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, admitted that Tamil Nadu police had intercepted the MLAs, but refused to reveal more, saying these were official matters.

Incidentally, sources have told India Today that 21 policemen, including senior officers from the Central Crime branch, are presently in Kushalnagar, where the MLAs' resort is located.

Notably, this is not the first time the MLAs have alleged harassment at the hands of Tamil Nadu police.

On September 13, one of the MLAs, V Senthil Balaji, filed a complaint with the Suntikoppa police, demanding action against certain police officers.

In his complaint, Balaji claimed the officers were illegally threatening the rebel MLAs with dire consequences if they did not switch loyalties.

--- ENDS ---
President Reuven & First Lady Nechama Rivlin on Monday, 27 Elul, held a festive reception at the Presidents Residence in Jerusalem for foreign ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps serving in Israel, to honor the upcoming festival of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

President Rivlin welcomed his guests and said, On this special occasion, it is important for all of us to remember that a true universal order cannot survive without strong nation states. He stressed, History has shown us time and time again, that there is no better way for a nation to develop, to defend itself, or to cooperate with other nations than as a sovereign nation state. As I told UN Secretary General Guterres a few weeks ago, international cooperation and national patriotism do not contradict one another. No one understands this better than us Israelis. The State of Israel where the Jewish nation fulfills its right to self-determination  was established with the strength, of wide international recognition at the UN.

He added, As we approach 70 years of independence, Israel remains strongly committed to international cooperation. More than that, while being a young state and a small country, Israel has already proven itself to be an important exporter; in agriculture, education, security, and innovation. When we learn from one another, when we work together, we can build a better future for our children and inents of the world. Asia, Africa, South America, North America, Europe, and Australia. We truly believe that strong international relationships, good cooperation, and international free trade agreements will foster prosperity around the world.

The President concluded by speaking of the danger of the collapse of nation states, as seen around the region. He said, Because the idea of the nation state is so important to international cooperation, we must all work together to stop the attacks on its legitimacy. Such actions and statements that we hear against Israel  denying our rights and threatening our existence  are unacceptable. They do not promote understanding or cooperation among nations. The fact that Iran continue to regain more and more legitimacy, while Iranian leadership continue to call for Israels destruction is unacceptable. This does not promote humanistic values. Values that are at the heart of our peoples, of our countries, and of our friendships.

Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, Alex De La Rosa Garabito, thanked the President and First Lady and said, This year is the 70th anniversary of the creation of the State of Israel, and added What you have managed to do here against all odds is nothing short of a miracle.

He noted that, Israel is a global economic and scientific powerhouse. To take just one example, how many dry countries managed to master the problem water, one of the worst afflictions of the world? Needless to say, Israel is not a nation that dwells alone and among the nations they do not reckon. It aspires rather to be a light unto nations. Many of the countries represented here can testify to the cooperation with it in all fields that I mentioned above, from scientific research to high tech to water resources. He stressed, International cooperation is paramount and Israel is a respected player in this field.

Speaking of the challenges the world faced today, the Ambassador said, Anti-Semitism shows is it ugly head again. Terrorism strikes everywhere. Radical intolerance, violence, civil strife, plague our world and affect everybody. As always Israel finds itself on the forefront. He concluded by expressing his hope that the New Year would bring renewed peace efforts between Israel and the Palestinians.

(YWN  Israel Desk, Jerusalem/photo credits: Mark Neiman, GPO)
A second Chinese firm has joined a growing list of foreign investors eyeing a stake in a troubled 15bn nuclear power plant planned for the Cumbrian coast.

China General Nuclear Power Corporation is reportedly considering taking control of NuGen, the Toshiba-owned firm planning a plant in Moorside to power up to 6m homes.

Forward thinking: A nuclear plant is planned for Moorside to power up to 6m homes

South Korean state-owned utility Kepco and Chinas State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation are also interested in the project - despite concerns in the UK about foreign investment in critical national infrastructure.

NuGen is urgently seeking new backers after French investors Engie pulled out when major financial problems at Toshiba earlier this year led to the bankruptcy of Toshibas subsidiary and reactor designer Westinghouse.

CGN already has stakes in the Hinkley Point power plant being built in Somerset, the Sizewell scheme in Sussex, and a plant in Bradwell, Essex.
Insurance stake

Tycoon Sir Peter Wood is reportedly exploring selling off his controlling 30.7 per cent stake in car insurer Esure.

The move would likely trigger a bid for the whole business. US rivals are thought to be the most likely buyers.

Food for thought: Sir Peter Wood is reportedly exploring selling off his controlling stake in car insurer Esure

DIY disaster

Analysts at broker Jefferies forecast that pre-tax profits at B&Q owner Kingfisher will tumble 18 per cent to 351m when the company reports half-year results next week.

The DIY firm has been hit by wetter than usual summer weather and a slowing property market.

Beefing up Peperami-maker Jack Links is considering opening a multi-million-pound factory in the Midlands, creating around 200 jobs

The US food firm said the potential new site would produce Jack Links Beef Jerky and could also make its famous sausage snack.

Steel deal

German steel conglomerate Thyssenkrupps board is set to meet on Friday to discuss plans for a possible merger with Port Talbot steelworks owner Tata Steel.

A possible deal has moved forward after Tata restructured its pensions fund. But unions in Germany fear heavy job losses.

Climate call

Inga Beale, the boss of Lloyds of London, said insurers have a duty to tackle climate change. As an industry on the front line we have a duty to drive action, she said.

Insurers are expecting losses of more than 52bn from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in the US.

Fund fail

Outspoken hedge fund manager Hugh Hendry, 48, has closed his flagship fund after losing large swathes of investors cash.

The Glasgow-born City stalwart has seen his main fund, Eclectica, slump 9.4 per cent so far this year.
The video shows AIADMK leaders, who are now opposed to Sasikala and Dhinakaran, heaping praises on her after the death of Jayalalithaa.

By Pramod Madhav: As the political situation in the Tamil Nadu turned extremely sensitive with the disqualification of 18 TTV faction MLAS , a video compilation from the State Assembly shows how AIADMK leaders are quick to rewrite the past.

The video shows AIADMK leaders, who are now opposed to Sasikala and Dhinakaran, heaping praises on her after the death of Jayalalithaa.

advertisement

The habit of AIADMK ministers to narrate a lengthy monologue in the state Assembly every time when required to speak on a matter, has turned bad for them as a compilation from the Assembly proceedings since Jayalalithaa's death inadvertently testifies to their ability to change loyalty instantly.

Here is the list of leaders and their appreciation, criticism of Sasikala in the past few months:

Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam

"As one of the party cadre among 1.5 crore, I pay my respect to the party's General Secretary Chinnamma."

He later rebelled against Sasikala stating that there is suspicion with the death of Jayalalitha and that Sasikala's family is trying to hijack the party. He later sat on the infamous meditation at Jaya memorial and began his Dharmyudh.

Sengottaiyan, Education Minister,

"I have to tell you that AIADMK General Secretary Chinnamma (Sasikala) is the one who is keeping the party together and protecting us. Back in 1998 after the Lok Sabha win, Jayalalithaa met then PM Vajpayee and introduced Chinnamma as the one who is taking care of her like a mother. I had the honor to witness the event. She has the ability to lead the party and she will hold the party as a strong fort."

Though he hadn't spoken anything against Sasikala's family in the recent times, but he has remained a silent spectator watching EPS-OPS evict Sasikala and TTV Dhinakaran from the party.

Sellur Raju, Minister for Cooperatives,

"We were struggling without an identity after Amma's death, but she has left behind Chinnamma as a reward. You came as a boon for Amma and took care of her as a friend, a comrade and as a foster mother. You held our Amma's dreams as your aim and took care of the party like your life."

Raju later became a messenger for EPS-OPS merger and allegedly claimed that Sasikala's family is not good for the party.

RB Udhayakumar, Revenue Minister,

"This world will not forget our Amma's glory and holding that as her vow, our Chinnamma has come now like a boon. Chinnamma is a political treasure, a definition for peace, the form of kindness, the birthplace of will power, the right explanation of friendship and I pay my respect to her,"

advertisement

Udhayakumar was the first MLA to ask Sasikala to become the General Secretary and then wanted her to become CM of the state. Yet for unknown reasons, he changed alliance and now states that Jayalalithaa had always disliked Sasikala's family.

Vellamandi Natarajan, Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister,

"Amma stays in my heart and she has showed us Chinnamma who is like another mother to us. She symbolises trust for us."

Natarajan is considered to be one of the significant ministers who later raised questions over Jayalalithaa's death and even allegedly, indirectly blamed Sasikala for it.

Jayakumar, Fisheries Minister,

"I face towards the Bay of Bengal where Amma is resting and pay my respects to her. I pay my respect to General Secretary Chinnamma and Deputy General Secretary TTV Dhinakaran."

Jayakumar initially stayed as a trusted confidante of Sasikala and with the arrest of TTV Dhinakaran, he held the honor of informing the world about Sasikala's eviction. He then became the bridge to the merger between EPS and OPS factions.

advertisement

Though the video compilation shows only a few ministers praising Sasikala, every member in the Assembly had praised 'Chinnamma' on record. Such alternating action of changing allegiance in a matter of days has become an act of amusement to the people of the state.

Though in reality, EPS government can escape unscathed for another six months if they win the floor test, the CM's and his council of ministers popularity has reduced considerably among the commoners.

--- ENDS ---
Shares in BAE Systems were hovering near a two-month high after Qatar's defence minister signed a letter of intent to buy 24 Typhoon aircraft from Britain.

The agreement was signed yesterday during a visit to the Gulf state by Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon, who said it marked the UK's 'first major defence contract' with Qatar.

He said: 'This is an important moment in our defence relationship and the basis for even closer defence co-operation between our two countries.

'We also hope that this will help enhance security within the region across all Gulf allies and enhance Typhoon interoperability across the GCC.'

Done deal: British Secretary of State for Defence Michael Fallon shakes hands with Minister of State for Defense of Qatar, Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah after their meeting in Doha

The Gulf state agreed a potential order for the aircraft to be assembled at BAEs Warton site in Lancashire, providing a boost for the defence manufacturer and the UKs attempts to win more export deals for the 80million aircraft.

The news boosted the share price of BAE Systems, with the FTSE 100-listed company rising 2.9 per cent or 17.5p to a near-two month high of 613.6p.

The firm said in a statement: 'BAE Systems welcomes a formal Statement of Intent between the governments of the UK and Qatar signed today in Doha on the potential purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft for the future military and training requirements of the Qatar Armed Forces.

'Discussions are ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time'.

David Madden, a market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said that while the value of the sale was not disclosed, it was ' likely to be in excess of 1billion'.

The resulting share price boost has helped BAE Systems recover from the knock it took in August, when it announced that it would take a restructuring charge for its intelligence division.

Madden said: 'That announcement sent the stock to a six-month low.'

Today's deal is a boost for the defence manufacturer and the UKs attempts to win more export deals for the 80million aircraft

Qatar agreed a order for 24 Typhoons to be assembled at BAEs Warton site in Lancashire

But recently the firm has witnessed sentiment changing towards the stock. Last month, Goldman Sachs added the stock to its conviction buy list citing Saudi Arabian contracts as the reason behind the move.

However the deal is likely to anger other Gulf countries currently boycotting Doha.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Bahrain cut diplomatic and trade links with Qatar in early June, suspending air and shipping routes with the world's biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas, which is home to the region's biggest US military base.

The wealthy Gulf state has been accused by its neighbours of supporting terrorism and meddling with Iran, Saudi Arabia's arch-rival in the region. Qatar denies the accusations.

Michael Fallon signs a contract to sell Typhoon warplanes to Qatar - in a major deal for UK

The crisis has put the region on edge and prompted Turkey to send troops to Doha in a sign of support.

But last week French President Emmanuel Macron urged the lifting of a Saudi-led embargo on Qatar in effect since June.

Both Paris and Berlin back diplomatic efforts led by Kuwait, a key mediator in the crisis along with the United States.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a joint project between BAE, France's Airbus and Italy's Leonardo, previously known as Finmeccanica, and supports an estimated 40,000 jobs in Britain.

Neither statement gave the cost of the combat jet deal. BAE had agreed in 2014 to supply Saudi Arabia with 72 Typhoon jets in a deal worth 4.43billion.

Fallon told a conference in London on Saturday that the British government would step up efforts to help BAE Systems to sell more Typhoon jets with government-to-government deals.

The Typhoon has attracted fewer orders this year than the rival Rafale built by France's Dassault Aviation, which has agreed deals with Egypt and Qatar.

Qatar also signed a deal in June to buy F-15 fighter jets from Boeing in the United States for $12billion and concluded a $6 billion deal with Italy for seven navy vessels.
Would you be willing to pay your mortgage broker hundreds of pounds in fees if they made it clear exactly how much they were earning in commission from lenders too?

The question of fees and commission has raised its head again after a mortgage broker offering 'free' advice claimed others were in the wrong for charging fees when they already earned commission.

The claim was made by Chippenham-based mortgage broker One 77 and it suggested that 75 per cent of mortgage borrowers using a broker were paying a fee for the advice they received, despite their adviser receiving a commission payment from the lender too.

For a 150,000 mortgage the broker would earn between 525 and 675 in commission

Typically fees came to around 400 per client, but depending on the size of the loan and whether it was a residential home loan or a buy-to-let, fees could be as much as 1 per cent of the full mortgage balance.

On a 150,000 mortgage, such a percentage fee, would mean stumping up 1,500 for the work done by your adviser who will also earn a procuration fee or commission from the lender for arranging the deal.

Commissions are usually between 0.35 per cent and 0.45 per cent on the loan, so for the 150,000 mortgage the broker would also earn between 525 and 675 in commission paid by the lender.

Alastair McKee, director of One 77 Mortgages, said: 'Its truly shocking that brokers are double dipping on fees in this way and stinging the consumer in the process.

'This is a colossal sum of money thats being thrown away unnecessarily, in many cases by the people who can least afford it.

'As ever, its a case of buyer beware but, understandably, many less experienced buyers believe this is the norm across the board and that they have no choice but to pay.'

Should mortgage commission be stopped?

The question of how fair commission and fees are has come up repeatedly over the past five years.

In 2012, investment advisers were banned from receiving commission from fund managers for recommending their products after the financial watchdog concluded high commissions were biasing advisers into making inappropriate investments for their clients.

At the same time, the regulator looked into whether mortgage commissions were distorting the advice given by brokers to customers and concluded they weren't.

However, the issue hasn't gone away and in December last year the Financial Conduct Authority confirmed plans to investigate whether or not these commissions - known as procuration fees - cause bias and should be banned.

It's due to reveal its conclusion later this year but given this isn't the first time it has investigated proc fees, it seems unlikely they'll be banned outright.

In the investment market, scrapping commissions led to all advisers charging fees and millions of savers and investors with small amounts to invest being priced out of getting advice at all.

If mortgage commission was shelved it would mean that all mortgage advisers would probably start charging explicit fees.

The watchdog has already raised concerns that shelving mortgage commissions could mean those who need mortgage advice most wouldn't be able to afford it.

Is an additional fee justified?

This leaves the question of whether brokers are justified in charging an additional fee for their advice and service - especially when some of the biggest mortgage broker firms in the country still offer their advice for 'free', choosing instead to rely on the commissions they earn for income.

This is Money's mortgage partner is London & Country, the UK's biggest fee-free mortgage broker. We chose it because of its long-standing reputation for customer service and because it doesn't charge customers fees - making its money instead from commission on mortgages.

David Hollingworth, of London & Country, said the most important thing for borrowers looking for a mortgage broker to consider is the service they'll get.

'With a huge and increasingly complicated range of mortgage options and criteria playing such a big part in choosing the right lender, its easy to see why borrowers want advice,' he said.

'Brokers can even have access to exclusive deals that may not be available on the high street. But some brokers will advise from a limited panel of lenders and still charge a fee,' he warned.

'Thats in addition to the commission that all brokers receive from the lender for introducing business to them.'

Poll Should mortgage brokers charge an extra fee on top of commission? Yes, if they offer great service I'm prepared to pay Yes, I think the job they do requires them to charge an additional fee No, why should they get paid twice? No, additional fees should be banned Commission should be banned and customers should pay for a service that puts them first Should mortgage brokers charge an extra fee on top of commission? Yes, if they offer great service I'm prepared to pay 110 votes

Yes, I think the job they do requires them to charge an additional fee 34 votes

No, why should they get paid twice? 95 votes

No, additional fees should be banned 48 votes

Commission should be banned and customers should pay for a service that puts them first 31 votes Now share your opinion





Hollingworth argued that leaving commission in play means that borrowers still have the option of getting mortgage advice for free, something their customers value.

But he recognised others are willing to pay the extra and added: 'Its important for borrowers to factor in any fees when assessing the value of a product.

'Some deals can carry big arrangement fees and broker fees are something that borrowers will also want to factor in to the total cost.

'A 1 per cent broker fee on a two-year deal effectively adds 0.50 per cent to the mortgage rate, so although different broker models work in different ways its a cost that needs to be considered.'

This formula is not reflective of every fee.

Many brokers take a view that a better way to charge is a flat fee and they'll agree a lower rate of a few hundred pounds.

Complex mortgages and buy-to-let take more work to process for the broker, and are therefore more likely to attract a higher fee.

Why is some mortgage advice fee-free?

Generally speaking, firms that offer free mortgage advice can do so by opting to serve lots of customers with easy needs quickly and over the phone. This pulls down their cost per deal and allows them still to make a profit even relying just on commission payments.

Firms that deal with customers looking for multiple mortgages, dealing with very high value loans, complex income structures or helping to structure buy-to-let or commercial loan portfolios will typically charge a fee to cover the costs involved in processing these deals.

If they didn't, they argue, the model wouldn't be commercially viable and it would leave swathes of worthy borrowers fending for themselves when their complicated financial needs mean they need help more than most.

Andrew Montlake, of mortgage broker Coreco - a high-end firm that does charge a fee - said it should come down to choice and whether a customer feels it's worth paying a bit extra for the extra service offered by some firms.

In any industry, you have different methods of charging and just as in other industries it can often be a case of you get what you pay for

He said: 'In any industry, you have different methods of charging and just as in other industries it can often be a case of you get what you pay for.

'As with most fees, it depends on the service a broker provides to the consumer and ultimately the consumer will decide if that fee is worthwhile or not.

'A brokers job is more time-consuming and complex than ever before and true professional brokers often charge a realistic fee for their service, which extends far beyond simply using an online sourcing system to find the cheapest deal, rather than the most suitable one.

'There is, of course, a place in the mortgage market for both types of business, but there are many consumers who want something that offers that little bit extra, especially in the current climate.

'As advisers, we are a relationship business rather than just looking at a transactional one, advising and maintaining our clients for the long-term and we have won business in the past from no fees brokers for this very reason.'
Harrods Bank, a brand which has been around since 1893, is set to be sold to challenger online-only Tandem after years of loss making.

The banking arm of one of the world's most famous department stores, based in Knightsbridge, offers savings and has also had mortgages and a current account available in the past.

On its website, a message says: 'Tandem has today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Harrods Bank.

'The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and all parties involved will work closely with customers and other stakeholders over the coming months to ensure a smooth ownership transition.'

Harrods Bank: The brand will disappear after 120 years if its takeover by Tandem is given the green light

The move will turbo-boost Tandem's plans to launch savings accounts.

The start-up lost its banking licence in March after an expected 29million investment from House of Fraser owner China Sanpower Group was dropped.

On the Harrods website, it is offering a one-year rate of 1.45 per cent and a two-year rate of 1.25 per cent, on balances over 20,000.

In 2014, as revealed by This is Money, it was attempting to crack into the mass savings market by offering a number of accounts.

Previously, it only offering bespoke deals to its well-heeled customers at its branch on the second floor of its store.

This branch will close while it will stop providing accounts and end some of its older savings products.

In a bid to attract high-net worth savers, it also offered 'reward' points to be used in store for those who put in more than 50,000.

It has been losing money for a number of years. In the year that ended 31 January 2016, it lost 6.3million while in the year previous it was 3.9million.

Millions of pounds went on an IT system which was meant to make the bank go digital in 2015, but was dogged with problems.

The Tandem acquisition will provide it with 80million of capital along with the banking licence needed to offer accounts in Britain.

Other financial terms have not been disclosed and it is not clear if the Qatari-owned sellers will have a stake in Tandem.

On the Harrods website, it adds: 'The bank will remain authorised by the PRA and regulated by the PRA and FCA and will continue to operate its business and service its customers.

'The Bank's deposits are also protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, the UK's deposit protection scheme.'

Ricky Knox, founder of Tandem, said: 'Tandem has been built from the ground-up with the help of over 11,000 co-founders, who have helped us shape products and services that really make a difference to their lives.

'This acquisition will allow us to scale the business and ensure we can introduce as many people as possible to a new way of banking.'

Last year, in an exclusive interview with This is Money , Mr Knox said that the bank was to launch later in 2016 with an aim to become a 'mass market' player within the next decade.

At the time it had a banking licence, but this was stripped away in March after funding fell through.

When it eventually launches, it plans to offer current accounts, credit cards, loans and mortgages, as well as savings accounts.
Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh was the third military officer to have been given five-star rank. He was also the only Air Force chief to hold the position for five years.

By Prabhash K Dutta: Among the galaxy of politicians including President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the three chiefs of the armed forces, who visited the residence of Indian Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh in New Delhi to pay their tributes, was also present actor and TV personality Mandira Bedi.

Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh was the uncle of actor Mandira Bedi, who expressed her grief on the death of the legendary military officer with a Twitter post saying, "Marshall (sic) of the Air Force, #ArjanSingh , my uncle, passed away this evening. A true officer and a gentleman. Will miss him dearly."

advertisement

Mandira Bedi is related to Marshal Arjan Singh through his wife Teji Singh, who died in 2011. Teji Singh was Mandira Bedi's maternal aunt. Marshal Arjan Singh had married Teji Singh in 1948.

Marshal Arjan Singh was the fourth generation soldier from his family. His great-grandfather Sultana Singh was the Naib Risaldar in the Guides Cavalry of the British Indian Army enlisted in 1854. Sultana Singh was martyred during the Afghan campaign of 1879.

AIR FORCE CHIEF AT 45

Marshal Arjan Singh was the first, after three generations, from the family to become a commissioned officer of the Armed Forces. Marshal Arjan Singh is best remembered for his contribution in the 1965 war as the Air Force chief.

Born in 1919, Arjan Singh joined the British Indian air force at the age of 19 in 1938 as pilot officer. He rose through the ranks fast and at the time of Independence, Arjan Singh was a wing commander and acting group captain.

Arjan Singh led the first fly-past of the Indian Air Force over the Red Fort as part of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, 1947. Arjan Singh became the Chief of Air Staff in 1964 at the age of 45.

ARJAN SINGH AND 1965-WAR

The following year, he played the decisive role in 1965-India-Pakistan war. He was awarded Padma Vibhushan - second highest civilian award in the country - for his services in the war.

It was his leadership in the 1965 war that led to elevation of the rank of the Chief of Air Staff to Air Chief Marshal. Arjan Singh is the only Air Force chief who held the position for five years as against the norm of two-and-a-half years to three years.

Arjan Singh flew more than 60 different types of military aircraft and as the Air Force chief Arjan Singh transformed the Indian Air Force from a military power modeled on World War-II pattern to a modern and fourth biggest global force.

POST-AIR FORCE CAREER

After his retirement in 1969, Arjan Singh took the position of the Ambassador to Switzerland in 1971. He concurrently held the position of the Ambassador to the Vatican. From Switzerland, he moved to Kenya as High Commissioner in 1974 and stayed there till 1977.

advertisement

From 1975 to 1981, Arjan Singh served on the National Commission for Minorities. He was made the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi for one year between December 1989 and December 1990. Delhi did not have a chief minister during that period.

FIVE-STAR MARSHAL ARJAN SINGH

On the Republic Day in 2002, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government elevated Air Chief Marshal Arjan Singh to the five-star rank of the Air Force Marshal. He became the first Air Force Officer and only till date to have been decorated with the five-star rank.

However, he was the third military officer to hold that rank. The other two were former army chiefs SHF Jamshedji Manekshaw and KM Cariappa. The rank of Air Force Marshal is equivalent to the Army's five-star Field Marshal and Navy's Admiral of the Fleet grade.

Last year, an Air Force station, Panagarh in West Bengal was named after Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh as Air Force Station Arjan Singh. After suffering a massive cardiac arrest, Marshal Arjan Singh breathed his last on Saturday evening at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi.

advertisement

--- ENDS ---
Sir,



As an academic staff member at Swaziland Christian University it has been interesting to observe the responses and feedback that has been made regarding the operations of the university. Unfortunately this highlights and reinforces the fact that we have a government that is reactive rather than proactive.



I recall in November 2015 when my colleagues and I downed tools as we could not continue to lecture students until we were given adequate support from the institution to provide the best for the students because it was becoming costly for us to subsidise the institution with our resources. We even informed them that the source of all the problems at SCU was ownership and governance, and if this was addressed everything else would fall into place in terms of finances and administration.



I recall clearly that government promised to deal with this, but felt strongly that we should continue teaching while they addressed these issues.

In January 2016, government released E5 million for the institution to purchase learning material and laboratory equipment for courses that required it.



Indeed we felt positive that government was taking a more active role and that we would see stability at the institution but there was still unrest for some of us as we realised that ownership and governance issues were not being addressed with the immediacy they needed.

We welcomed the first audit by the Swaziland Higher Education Council in February 2016. Feedback was received on that and each department was tasked with ensuring that students were adequately trained and any missing practicum hours or laboratory work was made up for.



SHEC subsequently returned and provided feedback on our mitigation progress.

And a second report was recently released before the institution was informed to suspend operations; of which the university responded to some of the discrepancies seen by what was contained in the report.



Unfortunately when peoples education and professional lives are at stake, it becomes important that government stakeholders are informed and are accurate in the information that they give the public.



One of the speeches by one of the ministers in Parliament on Wednesday was that SCU was not accredited by any other university.

This confused some of us in academia, being that we have forged partnerships and affiliations with various institutions, but affiliation is different from accreditation. Accreditation comes from a higher regulatory body.



This is the Swaziland Higher Education Council, which is meant to accredit the institution in this country. Swaziland did not have a higher education council and it was formed after higher education institutions had been established.

On Wednesday in Parliament it was surprising to hear that we have a vice-chancellor who is not resident in the country and lives in Cape Town. But since June 2016 we have had a resident and full-time vice-chancellor and government is aware of this because it has representatives in the council of the university.



One of the difficulties we had as academic staff was the manner in which the higher education council chose to audit our departments.

SHEC is still new and lacking in resources and they dont have all the skills to evaluate the curriculum of each academic discipline at SCU, we thought they would make use of equivalent bodies in other countries.



Of course there has been talk about our qualifications as academic staff. The majority of us hold a minimum of a Masters Degree qualification or higher and those with Degrees are about seven and their role is being laboratory and teaching assistants. All our courses are externally moderated and we have proof to that effect. If government wants to shut down the institution it should be clear and transparent about it and their reasons, but not cite inaccurate information.



Frustrated academic staff member








SIPHOFANENI  A public toilet with a dysfunctional sewer system has caused human waste to be deposited near homesteads and businesses at Siphofaneni town.



This has placed the population of the rapidly growing small town at high risk of contracting diseases like cholera, typhoid and infectious hepatitis, which are common in areas with poor sanitation.



The toilet is situated right at the centre of Siphofaneni town, behind the bus rank and next to eateries and other businesses.

It had been functioning well for many years until its sewer pipes got blocked a couple of years ago, damaging the septic tank and causing human waste to overflow, residents said.



According to the residents, instead of fixing the problem, the committee responsible for waste collection at the town took a shortcut.

They installed a pipe to the damaged septic tank to decrease the sewer and prevent it from spilling into the ground. However, the pipe they connected now deposits the human waste near homesteads and other businesses, said a resident.



Residents are not only worried about the risks of contracting diseases that are related to poor sanitation but they are also inconvenienced by the foul odour around their homesteads.



Chris Mahoza, who resides right next to Siphofaneni bus rank and runs a welding business, is one of those who are affected. The human waste from the damaged septic tank of the public toilet passes along the boundary of Mahozas homestead.

To prevent the human waste from getting into his yard, he has placed a heap of sand.
MBABANE  The adage good things come to those who wait has rung true for former Lobamba MP Majahodvwa Khumalo.

He has been appointed National Court President by the countrys appointing authority.



Although his proposed new station is known to this publication, it will not be disclosed until he is formally introduced by the relevant authorities sometime this week.

Khumalo has been unemployed ever since he lost out in the national elections in 2013.



At some point, Khumalo was so desperate that he issued a public apology to current Prime Minister Sibusiso Barnabas Dlamini for statements he had made towards him in Parliament, threatening him with physical attack.

He also asked for any kind of job that could be offered to him.



However, all that is now water under the bridge as Khumalo stated in an interview.

Bayethe Wena Waphakathi,udla ematfole ezinyathi, was Khumalos reaction when contacted on his appointment.

He said he was not expecting such an appointment.



Khumalo said being given such an appointment meant that his ancestors and God had come through for him.

He said God also gave the nation Their Majesties, which showed that his appointment was divine.

What is expected of me is to work with dignity and honour, said Khumalo.



The bubbly MP said he would respect the countrys laws at all times and also uphold the Constitution. He said he would also respect the countrys leaders at all times.
Gija Emkhuzweni High School, where pupils are dropping out.

PIGGS PEAK  Sex work may be the oldest profession but for Gija Emkhuzweni High School, the illegal profession is costing them big time.



This is because some of their female pupils have dropped out of school to engage in this trade, while others are still schooling, however, also engage in sex work. It has been revealed that even pupils in lower classes at the school are engaging in such trade, with most of them blaming the high poverty levels as the main reason.



Gija Emkhuzweni High School is one of the poorly performing schools in the country, such that 41 per cent failed the 2016 Junior Certificate exams and none obtained First or Second Class Passes.



It has been gathered that the school is dealing with at least 30 disciplinary cases and that some of these include alleged sex work.

The Head teacher at the school, Sam Nxumalo said, the driving force for the alleged sex work was mainly high levels of poverty in that some of the pupils cannot afford school fees or uniform.

They are then forced to resort to sex work.



He said in many cases, affected pupils often live alone or with relatives who are not their biological parents but only guardians.

Nxumalo not only confirmed the allegations of some pupils engaging in sex work for survival but said it was a concern because the pupils were dropping out of school.



He confirmed that there were cases still being handled by the school, involving being paid for sexual services.
By PTI: Mission in Ukhand

Dehradun, Sept 18 (PTI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat today announced the appointment of Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar as the brand ambassador of the Swachh Bharat Mission in the state.

On completion of his six months in office today, the chief minister said, "Kumar has happily agreed to become our brand ambassador for the states Swachchata Abhiyan.

advertisement

"He said he was proud to be the brand ambassador of such a campaign for a state where chardham is located,"Rawat told reporters quoting the Bollywood actor.

Akshay was also appointed as the brand ambassador for the cleanliness campaign in Uttar Pradesh last month and his film "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" was made tax free in the state.

The movie stresses on the importance of building toilets and ending open defecation in the country.

When asked whether Akshay will also not turn up, like previous brand ambassadors appointed by the state government, the Chief Minister replied in the negative.

"I can assure you that he will definitely come. However, it will not be possible for him to come by October 2. After all, we also need time to make necessary arrangements for his visit," he said in reply to a question. PTI ALM ARK

--- ENDS ---
Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams

By Naeisha Rose

Cambria Heights resident Robert Rodriguez, 31, was arrested as a suspect in the shooting death of the mother of his young son, Luz Cuza. who died Sunday, police said.

Cuza, 34, a South Jamaica resident, was just one minute away from her home when she was shot in the head and found unresponsive in the wee hours of the morning near 147th Street and 133rd Avenue, the NYPD said.

EMS later sent her to Jamaica Hospital, where she was pronounced dead, according to authorities.

Police apprehended Rodriguez near his home at 115th Avenue and 225th Street the same day and charged him with murder, criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of marijuana, police said.

The investigation was ongoing, according to authorities.
Did you vote in the midterm elections as if your countrys existence depended on it?
TROY  Deputy County Executive Christopher Meyer conceded Monday that state Assemblyman Steven McLaughlin has won the Republican and Conservative primaries for Rensselaer County executive.

"It is with great disappointment that I have come to the realization that I will not be the next Rensselaer County executive. Therefore I have decided to suspend my campaign," Meyer said in a statement released Monday afternoon.

Meyer and McLaughlin, R-Schaghticoke, engaged in a bitter primary battle for the two ballot lines in the race to succeed retiring County Executive Kathleen Jimino. Recorded comments of abrasive conversations between McLaughlin and a top female aide, as reported by the Times Union, gained significant attention in the final days leading up to the Sept. 12 primary.

Meyer said it had been "an honor to serve the residents of our great county for the past 13 years. ... I want to thank all of the voters who participated in the election process and especially all of the individuals, families, and businesses who supported my campaign."

The county Board of Elections has been counting absentee ballots and canvassing the machine votes in the party primaries. It became clear that Meyer would not be able to defeat McLaughlin, who ended election night leading in both contests.

In his own statement, McLaughlin said he was "focused on the general election contest ahead. We are committed to running a positive campaign centered around our goal of a better Rensselaer County and a stronger more prosperous future for all who call our county home."

While McLaughlin has secured the Republican and Conservative ballot spots, Meyer still has the Independence and Reform Party lines in the Nov. 7 general election.

County Democrats see an opportunity to win the county executive post despite a history of GOP dominance. The party searched for a candidate only after Jimino, a Republican, announced in May she would not seek a fifth four-year term to the post, which pays an annual salary of $121,300.

Democrat Andrea Smyth is actively campaigning for the post, and has called for debates to be held. She wants the county to do more with shared services involving its cities, villages and towns.

Democrats are seeking support from the state party committee. Smyth will appear on the Democratic, Working Families Party and Women's Equality Party lines.

The field for county executive is rounded out with Wayne Foy, the Green Party candidate.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ALBANY  The state Board of Elections is investigating campaign support given to Democrats in several state Senate races last year in a probe that's also examining a heavy-spending union super PAC.

Subpoenas were issued by the office of the board's chief enforcement counsel, Risa Sugarman, seeking documents concerning work done on behalf of the New York City-based Communication Workers of America District 1 and its outside spending group, New Yorkers Together. The subpoenas also seek records regarding several Democrats whom the group backed with heavy union spending, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

The investigation follows a complaint filed last October by Ed Cox, the state Republican Party chairman, charging that a powerful union official working to swing the state Senate to Democratic control, Robert Master, was breaking a law meant to prevent illegal campaign coordination.

Cox contended Master was in violation of the law by running an independent expenditure campaign  New Yorkers Together  while serving as a top official in a political party  Working Families  that was working directly with the Senate candidates.

Under the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision, independent expenditure committees, commonly known as super PACs, can accept unlimited donations and spend unlimited amounts to influence elections.

But states can prohibit the groups from coordinating with candidates' campaigns. Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed legislation last year strengthening campaign-finance law in New York.

The new law was spurred by the fact that outside groups coordinating with campaigns, which have donation limits, can give a candidate a financial advantage.

Master is political director at the Communication Workers of America District 1, but also had several roles in the 2016 election season.

He ran New Yorkers Together, the union-backed independent expenditure effort, which spent more than $770,000 in 2016. The group could receive and spend unlimited sums and spent money supporting two Democratic Senate candidates on Long Island.

Master is also the state co-chair of the Working Families Party that endorsed the two candidates  Ryan Cronin and Jim Gaughran. The party was being paid by the candidates' campaigns for professional services to help unseat their Republican opponents, Sens. Kemp Hannon and Carl Marcellino.

The two Democratic candidates are among those mentioned in the subpoena, along with Amber Small, a Democratic state Senate candidate in western New York in 2016.

New Yorkers Together also spent money on a telephone survey concerning Republican Sen. Chris Jacobs, Small's opponent, campaign finance records show.

Despite the outside help, the three Senate Democratic candidates lost. Republicans narrowly retained control of the chamber in 2016.

Master did not return a request for comment. Sugarman declined comment.

The subpoenas also seek information about Advocacy Consulting, LLC, a firm that worked for New Yorkers Together and is listed in elections records at the Brooklyn home of Peter Sikora, a former official for the union and the outside group's treasurer.

The Communication Workers District 1 told the Times Union last year that the allegations of illegal coordination are "factually and legally baseless."

Master "has no involvement with the Working Families Party's activities in connection with any state Senate elections and the WFP has not authorized him to act on its behalf in any of those elections," the union said.

In an Oct. 7, 2016 filing with the Board of Elections, Master disclosed that he is both co-chair of the Working Families Party (of which Master's union is a key financial backer) and has "managerial control" of New Yorkers Together.

The Communication Workers District 1 maintained that New York law does not prohibit individuals with party positions  such as Master  from engaging in political activities that are not coordinated with the party.

Master was involved early in 2016 in selecting which candidates the WFP would back. But Bill Lipton, the Working Families Party state director, has told the Times Union that Master was not privy to any information about later WFP efforts to win Democratic control of the Senate.

Master was treasurer in 2016 of a third entity  the CWA District 1 political action committee that donated directly to Democratic Senate candidates, including Cronin and Gaughran. The PAC is also mentioned in the Board of Elections subpoena.

The union has said that "New York law does not bar a PAC, such as the CWA District 1 PAC, and an independent expenditure committee, such as New Yorkers Together, from collaborating with each other, so long as that doesn't involve coordination with a candidate. There has been no such coordination here."
ALBANY  Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration on Monday proposed a new rule that would require credit reporting agencies to register with the state, subjecting them to strict cybersecurity standards in the wake of the recent Equifax hack.

The regulation from the state Department of Financial Services, which will be subject to a public comment period before it can be adopted, would mandate that consumer credit reporting agencies register with the state by Feb. 1 and re-register on an annual basis after that. The DFS superintendent would have the authority to deny a registration renewal if the applicant or its members or top executives are "not trustworthy and competent to act as or in connection with a consumer credit reporting agency"or fail to comply with any minimum standards, according to the Cuomo administration.
ALBANY  Gov. Andrew Cuomo signaled support of single-payer health care at both the federal and state levels on Monday as Democrats nationwide rally around the issue.

"I think that would be a good idea," Cuomo said on WNYC's "The Brian Lehrer Show" when asked about a federal "Medicare for All" system.

But single-payer may face a roadblock from Republicans who are weighing another effort to repeal the Obama-era Affordable Healthcare Act.

"I'm afraid (the Republicans) come back with health care reform," the governor added. "I think we're in the eye of the storm, where it's apparently quiet right now on health care. I think the back half of the storm is going to come around."

Single-payer  the concept that everyone chips in to cover "free" health care coverage when someone needs it  recently gained the support of U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York and is a point on which Democrats seeking office next year are touting.

Yet while federal legislation is going nowhere in a Republican-controlled Congress, New York Democrats have pushed for a single-payer system on the state level. The Assembly, which is controlled by Democrats, has passed single-payer legislation repeatedly in recent years. The GOP-held state Senate has not taken up the issue.

Cuomo seemed open to single-payer on the state level, assuming that federal health care funding funneled to the state is maintained. He has bemoaned a proposal that would force the state to pick up the county share of Medicaid costs, lest it risk losing federal funding of an equal amount.

"If they were to pass it and it was not incongruous with what the federal government would do to us, I think it's a very exciting possibility," Cuomo said. "But I think it's going to be a federal play. Our funding system basically relies on Medicaid from the feds. If they turn off that valve or slow that valve, there is no way we're going to be able to make that up in this state no matter what."

It's worth noting that the state would have to raise an estimated $91 billion in revenues to fund a state-level single-payer system, according to Assembly sponsor Dick Gottfried, D-New York. According to Gottfried's bill, any revenue proposal would need to account for ending of local payments for Medicaid.

Cuomo has been mentioned as a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2020, a year when single-payer may be a key issue for a White House run. On the heels of his trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands on Friday to survey hurricane damage, Cuomo was asked on Lehrer's program if he is taking actions with an eye toward 2020.

"Once you start with this presidential question, whatever you do, you can interpret as 'he's doing that because he wants to run for president,'" Cuomo said. "Whatever I do they could say that."

He added: "The Virgin Islands, I don't even believe they vote for president. So if you're running for president, there are a lot of other places to go besides the Virgin Islands  like Florida would probably be where you would have gone."

mhamilton@timesunion.com  518-454-5449  @matt_hamilton10
News of his arrest came on a day when the Narendra Modi government told the Supreme Court that many Rohingya refugees have links with terror organisations and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

By Puneet Kumar Sharma, Chirag Gothi: An Bangladeshi-British al-Qaeda operative who allegedly came to India to train Rohingya Muslims, was arrested last evening in Shakarpur, Delhi Police's Special Cell said today.

A proficient hacker who received arms training, Subhan Haq has already radicalised several Rohingyas in Bangladesh during his four-year stint with the terrorist group.

Police said they recovered a pistol, four cartridges, a laptop, and foreign banknotes from the operative, who they said carried a Kishanganj (Bihar) voter ID.

advertisement

Subhan Haq's real name is Shami Ur Rahman. He received a formal education until Class 12, travelled to South Africa and Syria, and then joined al-Qaeda, police said.

Earlier today, the Narendra Modi government told the Supreme Court that many Rohingya refugees have links with terror organisations and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Refugees from the community present a major security threat, the Centre said in a 16-page affidavit.

The government said it feared the possibility of an eruption of violence against Buddhists living in India.

Tens of thousands of Rohingya Muslims have left Buddhist-majority Myanmar since August 25, fleeing a military response to deadly attacks by Rohingya insurgents on police posts and an army camp.

While Myanmar says its forces are carrying out clearance operations against the insurgents of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, Rohingyas and rights monitors blame the exodus on what they say is a campaign aimed at driving out the Muslim population.

Rohingyas claim they're natives of the Burmese province of Rakhine, but Myanmar does not consider them as citizens.

AL-QAEDA'S THREAT TO INDIA'S HINDUS, SECURITY AGENCIES

The terrorist group said in June that it would target Indian Hindu "separatist" organisations involved in the destruction of mosques and Muslims' property and the killing or forced conversion of Muslims.

It also pledged to target the "leadership" of India's military, police and "secret agencies," and specifically, "those officers of the Indian military who have the blood of our Kashmiri brothers on their hands."

Al-Qaeda said the Indian state was its "top priority, after American and Israeli targets," but added that it's objective wasn't to attack "common" Hindus, Buddhists or people of other faiths.

It recently appointed former Hizbul Mujahideen commander Zakir Musa as its Kashmir chief.

Counter terrorism experts recently told American legislators that al-Qaeda was becoming more active in the Indian subcontinent - specifically, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

(Inputs from Reuters)

VIDEO: Here's what the Narendra Modi government told the Supreme Court today about Rohingya Muslim refugees.

--- ENDS ---
A motorcyclist was killed around 7 p.m. Sunday in a crash with a car on accident at Freemans Bridge Road and Sunnyside Road in Glenville, according to reports.

Police told NewsChannel 13 that a 30-year-old Rotterdam man was riding his motorcycle southbound on Freemans Bridge Road when a vehicle driven by an 88-year-old man turned in his path.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Colonie

Planes were flying nearly full out of Albany International Airport in July, new figures from the Albany County Airport Authority show.

Flights in July were 89 percent full, on average, several percentage points above the 85.6 percent of seats filled in all of North America, according to data from the International Air Transport Association.

There were 4,000 fewer available seats during July than a year earlier as airlines reduced capacity at the airport. Meanwhile, boardings climbed by 1,000 from the year-earlier level.

It's not clear how hurricanes Harvey and Irma will affect passenger demand. While Albany has no nonstops to Texas, Southwest and JetBlue each operate two daily nonstops to Florida cities. Each carrier canceled four round-trips during the height of the storm.

Airport CEO John O'Donnell estimates that several hundred passengers each day fly from Albany to southern Texas destinations, the region where Harvey's impact was most strongly felt.

And a third of Albany's departing flights have Florida cities, where Irma struck, as their final destinations.

"The devastation to these areas in the south and southwest will disrupt the lives of many people and we hope for their timely recovery," O'Donnell told the airport board during a meeting Monday. "In comparison, the impact to our travel patterns will be minimal... It is now more important to be sure that we are making proper flight accommodations to those who were in harm's way."

A number of Carribean vacation destinations were heavily damaged by Irma and will likely take weeks or months to rebuild, but others were spared.

Those that are open have been in regular contact with travel agents, said Jean Gagnon, president of Plaza Travel in Latham.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Saratoga County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Saratoga County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 3 of 3





BALLSTON  Two women are accused of breaking into a Town of Ballston building and stealing property, according to the Saratoga County Sheriffs Office.

Ballston Spa resident Alycia Andreadakis, 42, and Amsterdam resident Moquisha Harrison, 20, were charged with felony burglary after they broke into a town building on July 28 and again on Aug. 28 and stole items from inside, deputies said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ALBANY  Chief Judge Janet DiFiore is "fascinated" at the idea of a medium claims court.

She is dismayed at the lack of legal representation for immigrants in light of the policies of President Donald Trump  and called on attorneys to aid their plight.

The judge made both points crystal clear Monday at a hearing at the Court of Appeals on the issue of providing civil legal services for the poor, which include immigrants.

"With the heightened focus on immigration, there are many thousands of individuals being held and facing deportation without the assistance of counsel," DiFiore said. "Members of our profession have a moral and ethical obligation to respond to this growing crisis and to find ways to provide effective assistance of counsel to this very vulnerable population."

Immigrants' issues were a major focus of testimony of the first witness, Sandi Toll, first assistant counsel to Gov. Andrew Cuomo. She said in light of shifting priorities and "values of the current federal administration" toward immigrants that there is a very big threat to the thousands of New Yorkers.

Trump, who calls for a wall between America and Mexico, has created uncertainty over the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, an Obama era program which provides legal status to 800,000 immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.

Uncertainty over civil legal services for the poor also is an issue because the services are partly funded by the Legal Services Corporation, a federal entity facing budget cuts.

Increasing the services was the signature issue of DiFiore's predecessor, Jonathan Lippman, who began allocating $100 million in state funds for it and DiFiore is continuing to devote attention and resources. DiFiore, appointed to her position by Cuomo in 2016, noted that since 2010, civil legal services in New York have increased from 20 percent to 37 percent.

Still , she said, legal providers are turning away more people than they can serve.

The services help indigent litigants that include seniors, the ill, the wrongfully evicted, domestic violence victims and immigrants.

One idea raised Monday came from Steven P. Croley, a former Obama administration counsel now in private practice, who suggested the creation of a medium claims court.

The court could potentially handle claims in the tens of thousands of dollars, he said.

"You can vary some of the details, but the point is that such a tribunal would be well-suited for claims of moderate size," testified Croley, the former general counsel of the U.S. Department of Energy and one-time deputy White House counsel to President Barack Obama.

Croley is now a partner in the Washington D.C. firm of Latham & Watkins.

Croley said the medium claims court would not have to be forced on any litigant. The spirit of the idea, he said, is to broaden the spectrum of civil proceedings to fill in a gap between small claims court and the broader full-on proceedings of typical civil court cases. Some rules of evidence, he said, could be relaxed.

"What I'm trying to emphasize today are off-the-shelf procedures," Croley said.

DiFiore told Croley: "As I listened to you talk about the medium claims court, I was fascinated by that."
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Correction: An earlier version of his article misidentified Senator Charles Schumer's leadership position in the Senate. He is the minority leader.

WASHINGTON  In the face of Republicans' last, best chance of toppling Obamacare, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer is employing a strategy that is partly an appeal to GOP conscience and partly about running out the clock.

"Trumpcare is back and it's meaner than ever,'' Schumer said Monday at a Capitol news conference called to take aim at legislation by Sens. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., that would turn federal health care spending under Obamacare over to a block-grant program managed by states.

''If this bill becomes law, our health-care system will be dramatically curtailed, and there will be chaos in many states,'' Schumer said.

Repealing and replacing Obamacare has been Republican dogma practically since its passage in 2010. President Donald Trump has called the Affordable Care Act a ''disaster'' that should be allowed to ''implode.''

But even though House Republicans pushed through a substitute in May, the GOP-controlled Senate has failed multiple times to follow suit.

The Cassidy-Graham bill is likely the Senate's last opportunity to deliver the goods before Sept. 30.

That's the day after which Republicans can no longer rely on technical rules that permit a simple-majority vote of 51 senators plus Vice President Mike Pence to pass the measure.

After that date, according to the Senate parliamentarian, the Senate would need 60 votes  a bridge too far given the Senate's thin 52-48 Republican majority.

To defeat the Republican package, Schumer is insisting the bill be assessed by the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office. On Monday, the CBO said it would need more than a week to pull such an analysis together.

Such ''scoring,'' as it's known on Capitol Hill, sank previous GOP Senate bills due to the office's conclusions that 20 million or more would lose health insurance if they became law. Schumer also insisted there should be hearings and bipartisan input, a process that would last well beyond Sept. 30.

Momentum for the bill appeared to be gathering on the Republican side. Trump last week signaled his approval.

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., whose opposition sank the previous Senate bill in July, had said he would look to Arizona's Republican governor, Doug Ducey, for guidance.

On Monday, Ducey tweeted his endorsement of the Cassidy-Graham measure. Even so, McCain hedged his bet, telling CNN that Ducey's support still does not mean he is ''inclined'' to vote yes.

But the wavering of a handful of Republican senators ultimately may not count if Schumer and his fellow Senate Democrats can stall the legislation and thus beat the Sept. 30 deadline.

On Monday, Schumer pledged to use every parliamentary maneuver in his arsenal to delay or block Republican momentum on the bill.

''This is so outrageous that we're going to look at every possible way to slow this bill down, absolutely,'' Schumer said.

The Cassidy-Graham measure would radically alter the health-care landscape under Obamacare, ending the expansion of Medicaid and guarantees that those with pre-existing conditions could get coverage at reasonable cost.

Medicaid, now an open-ended entitlement, would be capped.

''Instead of a Washington-knows-best approach like Obamacare, our legislation empowers those closest to the health care needs of their communities to provide solutions,'' Graham said. ''Our bill takes money and power out of Washington and gives it back to patients and states.''

But Schumer cited a study by the liberal-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, which concluded the block-grant formula would deprive states of billions of dollars. New York would lose $33 billion by through 2027, the report stated.

''The term 'block grants' may sound harmless, but in practice they are anything but,'' Schumer said.

Also at the news conference was Elena Hung, co-founder of Little Lobbyists, a group of parents of children with special and complex medical needs whose health care costs could skyrocket absent government support.

''Our children deserve a childhood and our children deserve to grow up,'' she said as her toddler daughter  who spent the first 169 days of her life in neonatal intensive care  played in a corner. ''You can't call yourself 'pro-life' when you're playing politics with our children's lives.''

Two upstate Republicans, Reps. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, and Elise Stefanik, R-Willsboro, both voted for the House repeal-and-replace measure in May. Faso won inclusion of an amendment that would cancel New York's requirement that counties chip in for Albany's share of Medicaid.

He has said he voted on behalf of constituents in need of property tax relief.

''Congressman Faso has been working tirelessly with the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus to come up with bipartisan solutions to reform our nation's health-care system, and he looks forward to reviewing this legislation if it makes its way to the House,'' said his spokesman, John Lange.

A spokesman for Stefanik did not return an emailed request for comment.

Also Monday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signaled support for a national single-payer health care at both the federal and state levels.

"I think that would be a good idea," Cuomo said on WNYC's "The Brian Lehrer Show" when asked about a federal "Medicare for All" system.

Cuomo acknowledged passage of such a measure was unlikely given the current political map in Washington.

"I'm afraid (the Republicans) come back with health care reform," the governor added. "I think we're in the eye of the storm, where it's apparently quiet right now on health care. I think the back half of the storm is going to come around."

The single-payer plan recently gained the support of U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

New York Democrats have pushed for a single-payer system on the state level. The Assembly, which is controlled by Democrats, has passed single-payer legislation repeatedly in recent years. The GOP-held state Senate has not taken up the issue.

Cuomo seemed open to single-payer on the state level  assuming that federal health care funding funneled to the state is maintained.

"If they were to pass it and it was not incongruous with what the federal government would do to us, I think it's a very exciting possibility," Cuomo said. "But I think it's going to be a federal play. Our funding system basically relies on Medicaid from the feds. If they turn off that valve or slow that valve, there is no way we're going to be able to make that up in this state no matter what."

The state would have to raise an estimated $91 billion in revenues to fund a state-level single-payer system, according to Assembly sponsor Dick Gottfried, D-New York. According to Gottfried's bill, any revenue proposal would need to account for ending of local payments for Medicaid.

Cuomo has been mentioned as a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2020, a year when single-payer may be a key issue for a White House run. On the heels of his trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands on Friday to survey hurricane damage, Cuomo was asked on Lehrer's program if he is taking actions with an eye toward 2020.

"Once you start with this presidential question, whatever you do, you can interpret as, 'He's doing that because he wants to run for president,'" Cuomo said. "Whatever I do, they could say that."




Albany

When Alexis Kozmon and her husband decided to get a dog for their 6-year-old daughter, they chose to adopt rather than buy from a breeder to teach the child the value of rescuing.

Four weeks later, the puppy the family named Sugar was dying painfully from distemper, and despite $3,000 in veterinary treatments, the only humane option was to put her down. Two of Sugar's siblings met the same fate. Kozmon faulted the volunteer-based rescue that had trucked the puppies from Texas, but when she complained to New York's consumer protection agency, she learned such groups are exempt from oversight.

"There was a loophole," said Kozmon, who lives in Middletown, Connecticut, but adopted from a group in southeastern New York. "There was nothing they could do to follow up or investigate."

Kozmon is among the animal lovers who pushed for a new law to provide state oversight of non-profit pet adoption groups. It cracks down on everything from shoddy health and record-keeping to unscrupulous pet dealers rebranding themselves as non-profit "rescues" and peddling puppies from the same puppy mills adopters seek to avoid.

The law, signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo this month, puts non-profit shelters and rescues under the same state Agriculture and Markets regulations that cover licensed pet dealers and municipal shelters.

"You have up to 500 non-profit entities under no regulation whatsoever," said Bill Ketzer, a regional official with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The new law requires the organizations to register with the agriculture agency, follow state documentation and vaccination requirements and disclose the number of animals transported annually. It also gives the agency the authority to craft additional regulations.

More than 35 states have some form of regulation of shelters and rescues, ranging from simple registration to standards of care, Ketzer said. Massachusetts lists state-approved organizations online. Connecticut requires anyone bringing a dog into the state for sale or adoption to be registered with the state and have health certificates for each animal.

Ketzer said New York's lack of oversight has spawned a brisk trade in puppies shipped from southern states and overseas to the Northeast, where the local supply has been reduced by aggressive spay-and-neuter programs and bans on pet store puppies supplied by breeders.

The dogs are often sold quickly without adequate veterinary certification to ensure they aren't infected with deadly distemper, parvovirus or rabies. If a dog turns out to be sick, the new owner has little recourse under current regulations.

Michelle Linendoll, of South Glens Falls, is one of several adopters who say their puppies were infected with parvovirus at an upstate New York shelter that receives animals from Georgia, Alabama and other southern states. Her puppy, Tanner, survived, but others died after their owners spent thousands of dollars trying to save them.

"Peanut died in my car on our way to the vet; I held him when he took his last breath," said Sara Butler, who got an 8-week-old boxer mix from the same rescue. "They did try to offer another puppy to take home but after watching Peanut suffer horribly on that last car ride, I couldn't watch it happen to another."

The lack of oversight also threatens human health. In 2013, a puppy that was shipped from Texas to an upstate New York rescue was sold to a Vermont woman. It turned out to have rabies, and 15 people had to undergo rabies shots.

Diane Scuderi, director of PawSafe Animal Rescue, where Kozmon got Sugar, said she's happy to comply with the new legislation. "We're already registered in Connecticut and we're a registered charity in New York," she said. "Giving them the extra information is no problem."

Scuderi disputes Kozmon's complaints about Sugar's health documentation and other issues. She said with her group adopting out nearly 1,000 dogs a year, occasionally a puppy gets sick despite being vaccinated and checked by a vet. "When someone calls and says they have a sick puppy, we'll work with them," she said.

Ketzer said adoption rates for homeless animals have soared and euthanasia rates have plummeted over the decades through the work of well-established shelter and rescue groups, but there are also well-documented cases where not-for-profit rescues have failed to protect animals and adoptive families.

"This new law is the beginning of an attempt to find out who the bad actors are and formulate standards that everyone will have to live by," said Libby Post, executive director of the New York State Animal Protective Federation, which represents municipal shelters.
Albany

Police departments across the state, including those in Albany, Schenectady, Troy and Saratoga Springs are resisting or unnecessarily delaying Freedom of Information Law requests for records on use of force, misconduct complaints, racial profiling and the use of surveillance equipment, according to a study released Monday by the New York Civil Liberties Union.

The findings are the result of Freedom of Information Law requests submitted by the civil liberties organization to 23 New York police departments. According to the NYCLU, over the course of two years, many of the departments ignored legal deadlines and "excessively" redacted documents. Of the departments contacted, 20 did not respond within the time period mandated under state law, the report states.

The report calls on state lawmakers to pass the Police Statistics and Transparency Act, which requires uniform data collection and reporting on low-level law enforcement as well as deaths in custody.

It also calls for the repeal of the controversial state Civil Rights Law section 50-a, which prevents public disclosure of the personnel records of police officers.

Police are supposed to serve and answer to the people of New York, yet departments across the state are being run like secret clubs, NYCLU Executive Director Donna Lieberman said in a statement accompanying the release of the ongoing study. No department should be a black box. Police must open their books to the people to ensure the kind of oversight and accountability that builds trust with the community."

Over a period of two years, NYCLU researchers asked 23 police departments, including several in the Capital Region, for records on their policies and practices regarding racial profiling, the use of force, video surveillance and complaints or allegations of misconduct.

"For more than two years, police departments across New York delayed and dodged providing information that all New Yorkers have a right to," said NYCLU Advocacy Director Johanna Miller. "Our requests weren't about paperwork, they were about how police work. Our state and local officials need to make sure police departments have both the will and the way to answer to New Yorkers."

With the exception of Utica, all of the departments required an appeal of the NYCLUs initial information requests under FOIL. The NYCLU filed administrative appeals, which are handled by each municipality, but that process can often languish for months or even years.

In Albany, the NYCLU said they received a response for records following an appeal process that took about 18 months. A similar request for Schenectady police records is pending, five months after the request. Troy responded after 11 months and Saratoga Springs took four months to respond, the NYCLU said.

FOIL requires only that an agency acknowledge receipt of a request within five business days. But, depending on the records sought, state and local agencies often delay providing records for months or even years with little explanation.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Albany

A medical practice that provides primary care and addiction treatment in Troy and Delmar violated laws regarding a medication to help wean patients off heroin and other opioids, according to a whistleblower lawsuit filed in federal court by a former employee.

The lawsuit claims Upstate Physician Services broke federal rules regarding the prescribing of Suboxone, a controlled substance whose administration is supposed to be carefully monitored.

Upstate Physicians staff who were not doctors harassed patients via social media to buy prescribed medications from them, prescribed Suboxone without authority to do so and stole prescription pads to write their own illegal prescriptions, according to the lawsuit. In addition, the suit alleges that patients who received Suboxone without seeing a physician were billed as if they had seen Dr. Mustafain Meghani, the president and medical director of Upstate Physicians.

Jessica Merola, the former employee bringing the lawsuit, claims she was fired by Upstate for reporting the problems to the state Attorney Generals Office and the federal Drug Enforcement Agency. A Wynantskill resident, she is seeking back wages and other compensation in the case, filed Sept. 1 in U.S. District Court in the Northern District of New York.

Upstate Physicians did not return a call seeking comment.

Demand for Suboxone has grown as the nation deals with an epidemic of opioid abuse and overdoses. The medication is a combination of buprenorphine, an opioid, and naloxone, an opioid antidote. The combination is intended to produce onerous withdrawal symptoms  nausea, clamminess, muscle aches and more -- if a patient takes it to get high.

But those who are not hardcore heroin or prescription painkiller users can experience euphoria from it, addiction experts have told the Times Union. So it is sometimes sold on the street.

In the last couple of years, state and federal officials have changed laws to increase access to Suboxone under medical supervision. In May, nurse practitioners and physician assistants were added to the list of practitioners who could prescribe Suboxone in New York. But during the time that Merola worked at Upstate Physicians, from July 2015 to December 2016, only doctors could do that.

Merola notified Meghani of a problem last summer, when she told him that Suboxone was found in the desk of an employee who was not a doctor. In late July 2016, staff in the South Troy office also learned the same employee had contacted a patient through social media, looking to buy the some unidentified medication from the patient. The employee had earlier admitted to stealing prescription pages and writing prescriptions for herself, the lawsuit states.

While the employee was fired, the lawsuit claims that Upstate did not inform the state Health Department, as required.

In the fall of last year, Merola learned that it was an office practice for staff to note on patients medical charts that they had seen Meghani for Suboxone when they had actually seen a nurse practitioner.

In November, Merola reported the misconduct to the state attorney general and DEA.

She was fired on Dec. 6, following a meeting in which Meghani told her he could no longer trust her, according to the lawsuit. In February, according to the lawsuit, Upstate Physicians filed a complaint with the state Labor Department stating that Merola had improperly accessed patient records in violation of federal law; the complaint was withdrawn in March.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that the medication that an employee allegedly solicited from a patient was not identified in the lawsuit.

An employee of Upstate Physician Services tried to solicit medication from a patient through social media, according to allegations in a federal lawsuit. A previous version of this story incorrectly named that medication, which is not identified in the lawsuit.
By PTI: in Delhi: police

(EDS: Updating with fresh inputs and details)

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) A 27-year-old Bangladeshi-origin suspected al-Qaeda operative, who had come to India to allegedly train and radicalise Rohingyas for fighting the Myanmarese Army, has been arrested from east Delhi, the police said today.

Initially, the British national tried to mislead police by claiming that his real name was Shumon Haq. He even showed them a fake voter ID card issued from Kishanganj in Bihar but subsequently, he was identified as Samiun Rahman alias Raju Bhai, they said.

advertisement

The Delhi Polices Special Cell had been working to gain information about Rahman since July. The sleuths had learnt that a man named Raju Bhai of the al-Qaeda terror group is trying to set up base in Delhi to carry out terrorist activities here.

The team of Special Cell deployed sources in the NCR and other states to get information on him.

It was further learnt that Raju Bhai is in Delhi and is attempting to recruit people for the purpose of jihad, said Pramod Singh Kushwah, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell).

Yesterday, the police learnt that Raju Bhai would come to Vikas Marg, Shakarpur near ITO, to meet one of the probable jihadist recruits, he said.

He was nabbed and later the police learnt his real name. A pistol of 9 mm calibre, laptop, mobile phones, USD 2,000, 13,000 in Bangladeshi currency and Indian rupees were recovered from him, Kushwah said.

It was also found that he was a trained militant and had visited Morocco, Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Turkey, Syria, Bangladesh apart from India for terrorist activities.

He had fought in Syria as a member of Jabhat Al Nusra, an affiliate of al-Qaeda in Syria, against the Syrian government forces, the official said.

In 2013, he was influenced by the ideology of al-Qaeda and joined it. He obtained a three-week training in their camp in Syria and fought there till 2014.

While he was in Syria, their group came to know about the "atrocities" on Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar.

With his Bangladeshi background, he was selected to raise a fighter group there. In 2014, he arrived in Bangladesh to radicalise youth to join al-Qaeda with the help of a person named Yasina, a resident of Bangladesh and an old al-Qaeda cadre, the police official said.

He visited Dhaka and other places and radicalised dozens of young people in Bangladesh for their entry into Myanmar from Chittagong.

However, he was arrested in Bangladesh for terrorist activities in 2014 and after imprisonment of about three years, he was released on bail in April this year, the official said.

advertisement

He was in contact with his outfit members via Facebook, WhatsApp and telegram and after being released on bail, he contacted Muhammad al-Jawlani, head of al-Nusrah Front, who directed him to go to India.

In July, he entered India with the objective of setting up base in Mizoram and Manipur to fight for Rohingya Muslims, raise funds and incite youths, Kushwah said.

During this period, he stayed at various madrasas in Kishanganj (Bihar), Hazari Bagh (Jharkhand), NCR and other places.

It is believed that he was in touch with a number of youths to incite them to join al-Qaeda, Kushwah said. He visited Delhi frequently for this cause.

Rahman was also involved in cultivating people through Facebook and Telegram app. He was in contact with his outfit members of Syria, including Jawlani and other countries through various chat applications and protected sites.

The government had told Parliament on August 9 that according to available data, more than 14,000 Rohingyas, registered with the UNHCR, were staying in India.

However, some inputs indicate that around 40,000 undocumented Rohingyas were staying in India, mostly in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan regions. PTI SLB ASK ASK

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
The National Famine Commemoration will take place at the Famine Warhouse 1848 on the 30th of September in memory of those who perished or suffered during the Great Irish Famine.

A number of events will take place over the coming week as part of the programme in the lead up to this state event.

On Saturday next 23 September the Heritage Office with Tipperary Studies will host an afternoon of talks on the Famine at the Source theatre in Thurles. Speakers will include Dr. Martin Mansergh on Commemoration and the effects of Famine on Irish History, Dr Ciaran O'Reilly, Maynooth University, who will speak on Eviction in Tipperary during the Famine Years, and Dr Thomas McGrath of Ballingarry who will talk on Young Ireland and the Insurrection at the Famine Warhouse in 1848. The first talk will begin at 2.15, this is a free event and all are welcome.

On Tuesday 26 September Margaret Hogan will give a talk on Food during the Famine, at The Old Schoolhouse in The Commons. Margaret is a retired post primary school teacher with an MA who has published and lectures on women in Irish history and the Great Famine, the Poor Law Union and Female Orphan Emigration during the Famine. Margaret has already done a day of workshops on these topics with the Presentation Secondary School in Ballingarry in advance of the National Famine Commemoration in conjunction with the Education Office of the County Museum. The talk at the schoolhouse is a free event and all are welcome.

On Wednesday 27 September Carrick on Suir will host An Gorta Mor- The Great Hunger of the 1840s from 7.00pm. Local Librarian Maura Barrett charts the impact of the Great Famine on the region, the industrial heritage of the Famine works, the decline in population, the resulting skirmishes and insurrections and the impact on modern day Carrick on Suir. This is a free event but booking is essential.

On Thursday 28 September the local primary schools project will be launched at the Community Hall in Ballingarry. Local artist Katy Goodhue has produced a series of 5 pieces of art reflecting the Famine in the local area. Based on her research over the summer for these pieces she has also gone to the 6 local schools and worked with the children to create an artistic response to the Famine in the area. These works will be on display in the community hall and at the Famine Warhouse 1848 for the Commemoration itself. A short film by local filmmaker David Quin was also commissioned as part of the Creative Ireland programme by the Arts Office and Heritage Office, again as an artistic response to Famine in the local area. This will also be screened on Thursday evening. This event begins at 7pm.

Saturday is the day of the commemoration itself and full details will be released next week.

Buses will take people from the parish fields in Ballingarry and The Commons beginning at 12.30pm and ending at 2pm. There will be no car access to the Famine Warhouse. All are invited and most welcome but must come in good time.
[September 18, 2017] Mark W. Mitchell, Mayor of the City of Tempe, Arizona, to be honored with the AZBio Public Service Award at the 2017 AZBio Awards

The Arizona Bioindustry Association will honor Mark W. Mitchell, Mayor of the City of Tempe, Arizona, with the AZBio Public Service Award at the 2017 AZBio Awards. Arizona life science and business leaders as well as guests from across the country will be on hand to applaud Mayor Mitchell for his leadership and support of Tempe's growing life science industry. Mayor Mitchell is committed to the growth of the bioscience industry in Tempe. The city is home to the main campus of Arizona State University and the Biodesign Institute, global companies BARD Peripheral Vascular, Inc. and Medtronic along with homegrown start-ups Apex (News - Alert) Environmental, Applied Micro Arrays, Calviri, GenoSensor, INanoBio, Korwave, Life365, PADT, Susavion, and SynBuild. The City's high-tech community includes approximately 15,000 people employed in technology-related fields, with an average salary of $95,000. Under the Mayor's leadership, the city is developing a new Bioscience and Technology Campus called I.D.E.A. Tempe at Tempe Town Lake next to the Tempe Center for the Arts. "We're a magnet for technology companies, world class researchers, and talented students who are either beginning their technology journey in Tempe or growing their reputation or tech company," said Mayor Mitchell. "Tempe is building for the future because we understand that our community can have an impact on individuals, fight diseases across the globe and create technologies that will change life as we know it. Think of the impact this will have on our worldwide community. Just look at the ASU Biodesign Institute-it has generated more than $1.5B impact on the regional economy and supported more than 3,000 jobs since it opened in 2003. Biodesign Building C opens in 2018 and there is so much more to come." "Powered by intellect, energy and innovation, our researchers believe they can accomplish what others often find impossible," said world renowned cancer researcher Dr. Joshua LaBaer who serves as the Executive Director of the Biodesign Institute. "With the addition of Biodesign C, we will soon have nearly 700 scientists of all kinds - biologists, engineers, chemists, physicists, mathematicians, computer technologists - and students working together to find creative and clean solutions for energy, air and water. We will invent new diagnostics and treatments that are accessible and affordable, and in some cases, we expect to be able to halt disease before it even begins." Mark W. Mitchell is a third-generation Arizonan with deep roots in the Tempe community. Mark W. Mitchell was elected to the Tempe City Council in March of 2000 and served three four-year terms. A native of Tempe, Mitchell attended elementary and middle school in the community before graduating from McClintock High School. He also earned a Political Science degree from Arizona State University. During his time as Mayor, Mitchell has focused on strengtheing Tempe's local economy and the economic recovery by working to attract new businesses and retain current business partners. Since his election as Mayor in May, 2012, the City of Tempe has announced the addition of more than 28,000 jobs. In addition to the biosciences, the city has significantly grown its financial sector with new campuses for companies including Chase, Northern Trust, State Farm, Silicon Valley Bank, and Union Bank. With its combined tech and financial sector focus, Tempe is looking forward to welcoming tens of thousands of jobs over the next decade.



Mayor Mitchell is also committed to maintaining and improving Tempe's world-class assets like the Tempe Center for the Arts and Tempe Town Lake, working with law enforcement to ensure that Tempe is made up of safe neighborhoods, and to providing a transparent city government. Mayor Mitchell currently serves on the Arizona Bioscience Roadmap Steering Committee and the Executive Committee for the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. He is also involved with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities. Mitchell is also on the Board of Directors of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and serves as the City of Tempe's representative on the Maricopa Association of Government's Regional Council, Regional Council Executive Committee, and Transportation Policy Committee.

As a community member, Mayor Mitchell has served on numerous boards and charitable organizations, including the Kiwanis Club of Tempe, Tempe Diablos, Tempe Leadership Class XV, Tempe Sister Cities, Tempe Impact Education Foundation, Rio Salado Foundation, and Tempe YMCA. A ceremony honoring Mayor Mitchell will take place at the AZBio Awards on October 11, 2017 at the Phoenix Convention Center. The AZBio Awards ceremony celebrates Arizona's leading educators, innovators and companies. Each year, AZBio honors bioindustry leaders from across the state of Arizona who are illustrative of the depth, breadth and expertise of its bioscience industry. The AZBio Awards ceremony is held annually during Arizona Bioscience Week. AZBW 2017 was proclaimed by the Arizona Senate earlier this year. Multiple educational events focused on the value of life science innovation will take place from October 8, 2017 to October 14, 2017 including the BMES Annual Meeting in Phoenix. The Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) is the world's leading society of professionals devoted to developing and using engineering and technology to advance human health and well-being. Attendees at BMES 2017 in Phoenix are expected to include nearly 4,000 professional scientists, engineers, researchers and students from academia and industry who are leaders in biomedical engineering. Past recipients of the AZBio Public Service Award include: Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema; Arizona House Speaker Pro Tempore, Bob Robson; W.J. "Jim" Lane, Mayor of the City of Scottsdale, Arizona; John Lewis, Mayor of the Town of Gilbert, Arizona; Rick Myers, Chair of the Arizona Board of Regents; Greg Stanton, currently Mayor of Phoenix, Arizona; Rep. Nancy K. Barto, Arizona House of Representatives; Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano; and Senator Carolyn Allen, Arizona State Senate. For registration and more information, go to www.azbioawards.com For more information on Arizona Bioscience Week, visit www.AZBio.org/AzBW2017 About AZBio A key component in Arizona's life science ecosystem, the Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio) is the only statewide organization exclusively focused on Arizona's bioscience industry. AZBio membership includes patient advocacy organizations, life science innovators, educators, healthcare partners and leading business organizations. AZBio is the statewide affiliate of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and works in partnership with AdvaMed, MDMA, and PhRMA to advance innovation and to ensure that the value delivered from life-changing and life-saving innovation benefits people in Arizona and around the world. For more information visit www.AZBio.org and www.AZBio.TV Photos available upon request. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918005357/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 17, 2017] Money20/20 Asia invites attendees to their Seoul Roadshow Event

Seoul, South Korea - 26 Sept 2017 SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Money20/20 is proud to announce its roadshow series will be coming to Seoul on Tuesday 26th September. Partnering with D.CAMP, the roadshow will take place at the Seomom Building in the heart of Seoul and will shine a light on the latest trends, challenges and innovations impacting the Payments, FinTech and Financial Services industry in South Korea. It will also give a small preview of what is to come at the inaugural Money20/20 Asia conference, which is taking place in Singapore on March 13th - 15th 2018. Money20/20 is seen globally as the leading event where the smartest visionaries and innovators from the Payments, FinTech and Financial Services ecosystem congregate to connect and create the future of money. Everyone from banks, payments and mobile providers, to retailers, tech giants, start-ups, investors and governments come together to experience original insight, trailblazing enterprise and high-impact networking. In Singapore in March 2018, Money20/20 Asia will recognise the defining influence of the pan-Asian FinTech industry and the vital role South Korea play's in this community. Confirmed speakers for Money20/20 Asia include: Thomas Ko , Global Co-GM, Samsung Pay

, Global Co-GM, Samsung Pay Han Kim , MD & Co-Founder, Altos Ventures

, MD & Co-Founder, Altos Ventures Cheng Li, CTO, Ant Financial Services Group

Greg Gibb , Co-Chairman & CEO, Lufax

, Co-Chairman & CEO, Lufax Jonathan Larsen , CIO, Ping An Group & Chairman, CEO, Ping An Global Voyager Fund

, CIO, Ping An Group & Chairman, CEO, Ping An Global Voyager Fund Karla Allen , Senior Director Mobile Payments, Walmart

, Senior Director Mobile Payments, Walmart Seung Gun Lee , CEO & Founder, Viva Repubica , Toss

, CEO & Founder, , Toss Makoto Shibata , Head of Global Innovation Team, Digital Transformation Division, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd.

, Head of Global Innovation Team, Digital Transformation Division, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. Oskar Mielczarek de la Miel , Managing Partner, Rakuten Capital

, Managing Partner, Rakuten Capital Spencer Spinnell , Director, Emerging Platforms, Google, Inc.

, Director, Emerging Platforms, Google, Inc. Nadiem Makarim , CEO & Founder, GO-JEK

, CEO & Founder, GO-JEK Pranav Seth , Senior Vice President, Head of E-business, Business Transformation, & Fintech & Innovation Group, OCBC Group Pat Patel, Content Director, Money20/20 Asia commented, "With the FSC optimising its regultory framework to accelerate FinTech innovation and foster the domestic start-up scene, the future is bright for the Korean Financial Services landscape. In a market where there is an incredibly tech savvy customer base with high internet and mobile penetration, we are seeing some really exciting innovation coming out of Korea -- from mobile wallets and innovative uses of the blockchain and cryptocurrencies, to biometrics. Our Seoul roadshow event enables Money20/20 to showcase the collaboration taking place across the local FinTech ecosystem and develop valuable insights for the inaugural Money20/20 Asia"



"We are excited to welcome Money20/20 Asia for their roadshow event here in Seoul" said Seung Gun Lee, CEO & Founder of Viva Republica/Toss. "The event's profile attracts influential attendees, and will showcase innovations happening in the fast changing Korean FinTech space." Topics for discussion at the Seoul roadshow will centre on 'the current and future commercial value of FinTech.' Attendees at the evening events, which start at 5:30pm, can look forward to speakers from:

Elle Kim , Global VP and Business Development, Samsung Pay

, Global VP and Business Development, Samsung Pay Jae Yong Lee , CFO & CSO at JB Financial

, CFO & CSO at JB Financial Joey Kim , CEO & Founder at People Fund

, CEO & Founder at People Fund Pat Patel , Content Director at Money20/20 Asia & Europe

, Content Director at Money20/20 & Seung Gun Lee , CEO & Founder at Viva Republica, Toss

, CEO & Founder at Viva Republica, Toss Tony Lyu , CEO & Founder at Korbit There is also the chance to win a free ticket to Money20/20 Asia, as well as a drinks reception and networking. "We are glad to see Money20/20 expand into Asia, and for their team to host their first Korean roadshow event here in Seoul!" said Joey Kim, CEO & Founder at People Fund. "Holding a roadshow in South Korea ahead of the inaugural Money20/20 Asia next March reflects both cities growing international profiles. It is great to see our industry hub recognised for their innovative approach to FinTech." Notes to Editor: Event details: Entry: FREE

Date: 20th September 2017 (Wednesday)

(Wednesday) Venue: Global Business Hub Seoul, 3F, Otemachi Financial City Grand Cube, 1-9-2 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Seoul , 100-0004 Agenda: 17:30 - 18:00 Registration & Networking with drinks

18:00 - 18:20 Introductions to Money20/20 Asia and D.CAMP

and D.CAMP 18:20 - 18:35 Fireside Chat with Elle Kim , Global VP and Business Development, Samsung Pay

18:35 - 19:20 Panel Discussion: The current and future commercial value of FinTech

19:20 - 19:30 Standalone by Tony Lyu , CEO & Founder at Korbit

, CEO & Founder at Korbit 19:30 - 19:40 Money20/20 Asia delegate pass winner revealed

delegate pass winner revealed 19:40 - 21:00 Networking with Food and drinks! About Money20/20: Founded in 2011 and acquired by Ascential plc in 2014, Money20/20 creates destination events where the most innovative people in payments, FinTech and the broader financial services industry connect. Famed for their high-impact networking, the Las Vegas (October) and Copenhagen (June) editions are widely considered unmissable by the industry they serve. The new Asian edition will debut in Singapore in March 2018. Money20/20 is the space where the industry's smartest visionaries and innovators come together to create the future of money. Money20/20 is an Ascential event. www.money2020.com About Ascential plc: Ascential is a global business-to-business information company that informs and connects the business world in 150 countries through market-leading Exhibitions & Festivals and Information Services. Ascential powers the prestigious Cannes Lions festival for the branded communications industry, the world's premier payments and financial services congress Money20/20, Spring Fair/Autumn Fair, the global fashion trend forecasting service WGSN, environmental risk data business Groundsure, e-commerce analytics provider One Click Retail and MediaLink, the strategic advisory and business services firm. Ascential's premium products enable focus, growth and value. The company provides customers with world class content and connections empowering their businesses to be the best informed and best connected. www.ascential.com Hannah Redfern

Event Director

Money20/20 Asia

+44 (0)203 033 2406

+44 (0)7715 872 197

[email protected] SOURCE Money20/20 Asia

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 17, 2017] Money20/20 Asia invites attendees to their Tokyo Roadshow

TOKYO, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Money20/20 is proud to announce its roadshow series will be coming to Tokyo as a part of the 2017 FinSum Festival later this month. Money20/20 is partnering with FinTech Association Japan to shine a light on the latest trends, challenges and innovations in the Japanese Payments, FinTech and Financial Services industry. Taking place at the Global Business Hub in the heart of Tokyo, the Money20/20 Tokyo roadshow aims to engage with and learn from the Japanese FinTech ecosystem in advance of the inaugural Money20/20 Asia conference - to be held in Singapore, March 13-15th 2018. Money20/20 is seen globally as the leading event where the smartest visionaries and innovators from the Payments, FinTech and Financial Services ecosystem congregate to connect and create the future of money. Everyone from banks, payments and mobile providers, to retailers, tech giants, start-ups, investors and governments come together to experience original insight, trailblazing enterprise and high-impact networking. In Singapore next March, Money20/20 Asia will recognise the defining influence of the pan-Asian Payments, FinTech and Financial Services industries and the crucial role Japan play's in this community. Confirmed speakers for Money20/20 Asia include: Makoto Shibata , Head of Global Innovation Team, Digital Transformation Division, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd.

Head of Global Innovation Team, Digital Transformation Division, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. Oskar Mielczarek de la Miel, Managing Partner, Rakuten Capital

Managing Partner, Rakuten Capital Greg Gibb , Co-Chairman & CEO, Lufax

Co-Chairman & CEO, Lufax Cheng Li, CTO, Ant Financial Services Group

CTO, Ant Financial Services Group Jonathan Larsen , CIO, Ping An Group & Chairman, CEO, Ping An Global Voyager Fund

, CIO, Ping An Group & Chairman, CEO, Ping An Global Voyager Fund Masato Kaneda , Deputy General Manager, Mizuho Financial Group

Deputy General Manager, Mizuho Financial Group Akihiro Ishizuka , Head of Global Payments Division, NTT Data Corporation

Head of Global Payments Division, NTT Data Corporation Karla Allen , Senior Director Mobile Payments, Walmart

Senior Director Mobile Payments, Walmart Spencer Spinnell , Director, Emerging Platforms, Google, Inc.

Director, Emerging Platforms, Google, Inc. Thomas Ko , Global Co-GM, Samsung Pay

Global Co-GM, Samsung Pay Nadiem Makarim , CEO & Founder, GO-JEK

CEO & Founder, GO-JEK Pranav Seth , Senior Vice President, Head of E-business, Business Transformation, & Fintech & Innovation Group, OCBC Group "Money20/20 Asia will curate world class content, with a pan-Asian focus, for a global audience of senior industry players" explained Pat Patel, Content Director at Money20/20. "The Tokyo roadshow event enables Money20/20 to engage with the brightest minds and rising stars in Japanese FinTech. We see some of the principal forces in the financial services industry coming out of Japan and are delighted to shine a spotlight on the unique dynamics that are fuelling innovation, both across Japan and the rest of the world."



"We are glad to welcome Money20/20 Asia for their roadshow event here in Tokyo" said Ken Honda, Executive Manager, Global Payments & Services Division IT Services & Payments Services Sector at NTT Data. "The event's profile will bring together influential attendees to debate, discuss and showcase the latest developments happening in the fast changing Asian and Japanese FinTech space." Topics for discussion at the Tokyo roadshow will centre on 'Platforms that Accumulate Data.' Attendees at the evening events, which start at 5:30pm, can look forward to speakers:

Jonathan Hope , Co-Founder and CEO at Keychain

, Co-Founder and CEO at Keychain Ken Honda , Executive Manager, Global payments division at NTT Data

, Executive Manager, Global payments division at NTT Data Mark Makdad , Founder and Head of Platform at Moneytree

, Founder and Head of Platform at Moneytree Pat Patel , Content Director at Money20/20 Asia & Europe

, Content Director at Money20/20 & Shinichi Takatori , Founder & CEO, Kyash Inc.

, Founder & CEO, Kyash Inc. Yobie Benjamin, CTO at Token.io

Yoshiki Yasui , Founder & CEO at Origami Inc. There is also the chance to win a free ticket to Money20/20 Asia, as well as a drinks reception and networking. "Money20/20 is the leading international brand for FinTech events" said Jonathan Hope, Co-Founder & CEO of Keychain. "Holding a roadshow in Tokyo ahead of the inaugural Money20/20 Asia next March reflects both cities growing international profiles. It is great to see our industry hub recognised for their leadership." Notes to Editor: Event details: Entry: FREE

Date: 20th September 2017 (Wednesday)

(Wednesday) Venue: Global Business Hub Tokyo, 3F, Otemachi Financial City Grand Cube, 1-9-2 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo , 100-0004 Agenda: 17:30 - 18:00 Registration & Networking with drinks

18:00 - 18:25 Introductions to Money20/20 Asia and FINTECH ASSOCIATION OF JAPAN

and FINTECH ASSOCIATION OF 18:25 - 18:40 Fireside Chat between Yobie Benjamin & Pat Patel

18:40 - 19:10 Panel discussion: Platforms that Accumulate Data

19:10 - 19:20 Presentation: Jonathan Hope , Co-Founder and CEO at Keychain

, Co-Founder and CEO at Keychain 19:20 - 19:30 Money20/20 Asia delegate pass winner revealed!

delegate pass winner revealed! 19:30 - 21:00 Networking with Pizza and Beer! About Money20/20: Founded in 2011 and acquired by Ascential plc in 2014, Money20/20 creates destination events where the most innovative people in payments, FinTech and the broader financial services industry connect. Famed for their high-impact networking, the Las Vegas (October) and Copenhagen (June) editions are widely considered unmissable by the industry they serve. The new Asian edition will debut in Singapore in March 2018. Money20/20 is the space where the industry's smartest visionaries and innovators come together to create the future of money. Money20/20 is an Ascential event. www.money2020.com About Ascential plc: Ascential is a global business-to-business information company that informs and connects the business world in 150 countries through market-leading Exhibitions & Festivals and Information Services. Ascential powers the prestigious Cannes Lions festival for the branded communications industry, the world's premier payments and financial services congress Money20/20, Spring Fair/Autumn Fair, the global fashion trend forecasting service WGSN, environmental risk data business Groundsure, e-commerce analytics provider One Click Retail and MediaLink, the strategic advisory and business services firm. Ascential's premium products enable focus, growth and value. The company provides customers with world class content and connections empowering their businesses to be the best informed and best connected. www.ascential.com Hannah Redfern

Event Director

Money20/20 Asia

+44 (0)203 033 2406

+44 (0)7715 872 197

[email protected] SOURCE Money20/20 Asia

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 17, 2017] Videology Saves Advertisers Billions of Dollars Using White Ops, Blocking Over 500 Billion Bot Requests in Past Three Years

First-to-Market Integration with White Ops Pre-Bid Prevention on Video Platform Sees Increased Adoption by Advertisers and Media Companies Through Private Marketplaces Blocked Bot Requests on Track to Top 1 Trillion by Q1 2018 NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Videology, a leading software provider for converged TV and video advertising, today announced that the company has blocked about 550 billion fraudulent bot requests  and is increasing steadily  through its advertising platform since integrating with White Ops' pre-bid prevention in Q1 2015. Videology estimates that delivering ads to those 550 billion bot requests could have resulted in nearly $10 billion in fraudulent ad spend going to organizations perpetrating non-human interactions on advertising placements over the last three years. The company is on track to block nearly a trillion bot requests by early 2018. Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/325753/videology_logo.jpg This dramatic increase is due in part to increased usage of Videology's pre-bid bot prevention capabilities by the demand side, as well as the growing adoption by suppliers across their entire video portfolios. Additionally, Videology has seen an increase in private marketplace (PMP) transactions between some of the largest global media agencies, advertisers, and major media companies, who now routinely use pre-bid prevention. In general, PMP relationships match top tier demand partners with top tier suppliers, so the commitment to quality is highly valued. While the White Ops integration blocks bots on the impression level, cumulative insights collected over time allow Videology to identify and eiminate known sources of high bot traffic, improving the overall quality of media within the platform. As such, Videology saw an average block rate of 17%, since 2015, and this continues to steadily decline month-over-month.



"Three years ago, Videology implemented White Ops for pre-bid fraud prevention in the video advertising ecosystem. This allowed us to take a proactive, definitive stance against fraud early on. It was a bold step, and initially clients did see an impact on both scale and price in comparison to our competitors because it costs more to serve ads to real people on premium inventory. We knew, however, that it had to be done, and advertisers who cared about driving real results appreciated our efforts  and still do," said Scott Ferber, CEO and Founder, Videology. "Videology recognized very early on that invalid traffic and bot fraud were particularly rampant in video, where high CPMs and a complex value chain provide a perfect haven for cybercriminals to swarm in. As the first video platform to adopt White Ops, Videology's brilliant foresight and commitment continues to create a significant impact on their customers. Fighting ad fraud is a 'long game,' and the results from Videology show that fraud prevention brings meaningful benefits to the entire ad ecosystem," said Sandeep Swadia, CEO of White Ops.

Videology's platform offers real-time non-human activity detection and prevention through a direct integration with White Ops' pre-bid prevention. The solution can be leveraged on any campaign, on any device, run through the Videology platform. The integration provides Videology platform buyers with the capability to ensure media quality throughout the lifecycle of a campaign, blocking non-human activity while optimizing for a campaign's key objectives. About Videology:

Videology (videologygroup.com) is a leading software provider for converged TV and video advertising. By simplifying big data, we empower marketers and media companies to make smarter advertising decisions to fully harness the value of their audience across screens. Our math and science-based technology enables our customers to manage, measure and optimize digital video and TV advertising to achieve the best results in the converging media landscape. Videology, Inc., is a privately-held, venture-backed company, whose investors include Catalyst Investors, Comcast Ventures, NEA, Pinnacle Ventures, and Valhalla Partners. Videology is headquartered in New York, NY, with key offices in Baltimore, Austin, Toronto, London, Madrid, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo and sales teams across North America. About White Ops:

White Ops protects the Internet from automated threats: threats such as ad fraud and account takeovers conducted by malicious bots. The biggest and smartest Internet companies in the world rely on White Ops to detect and prevent automated threats that cause billions in damages annually. The company's Human Verification technology prevents automated threats by combating their root cause: the malicious software behind bots, ad fraud, and app fraud. Even when bots use sophisticated techniques like exploiting real people's devices, compromising human identity, or simulating human behavior, White Ops stops these bots with precision and reliability. To learn more, visit www.whiteops.com. Media Contact:

Zinnia Gill

Communications Lead, Videology

[email protected]

(845) 807-2799 SOURCE Videology

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 17, 2017] 57% of Medicare Plan Members Unsure if Plan Offers Telemedicine, Another 31% Say it is Not Offered, HealthMine Survey

DALLAS, Sept. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Harvey, many seniors have more limited access to their doctors and medical facilities. This has heightened the importance of digital communications and telemedicine to help guide patients in need. Yet, a HealthMine survey revealed that 57% of Medicare health plan members aged 65+ said they are unsure if their health plan offers telemedicine; another 31% say that telemedicine is not offered by their plan. The data comes from a HealthMine survey of 500 Medicare health consumers. The heightened need for digitally connecting seniors to healthcare services has sparked a recent debate on the pros and cons of expanding coverage of telehealth and telemedicine services under Medicare Parts A and B. Mandated by Congress, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission will study the use of telehealth services and report findings by March 15, 2018. Medicare plan members must be digitally connected in order for telemedicine services to be effective. However, The HealthMine survey also revealed that 79% of seniors do not have easy access to their electronic medical records. Medicare plan members also revealed their communication preferences: 48% refer to communicate with their plan via voice/phone, 31% prefer digital communication, and 21% prefer snail mail.



According to Bryce Williams, president and CEO of HealthMine, "These hurricanes have underscored the importance of every person being digitally connected to their health. We are working hand-in-hand with health plans to accelerate digital processes and analytics." Prior to HealthMine, Williams was president and CEO of the nation's largest private Medicare Exchange. "In running the exchange, we learned every aspect of communicating with seniors including building and operating the most robust fully digitized call centers."

Williams added that collecting and analyzing every piece of data is how plans are driving new efficiencies for their business and better care for their plan members. "Real-time data analytics drives health intelligence. Health intelligence is what enables plans to help members improve their health." About the Survey

The HealthMine Medicare Plan Health Intelligence Survey queried 500 insured 65+ consumers who are enrolled in a Medicare program. The survey was fielded by Survey Sampling International (SSI) in June/July 2017. Data were collected via an opt-in panel. The margin of error is 4%. Survey Sampling International (SSI) has been the Worldwide Leader in Survey Sampling and Data Collection Solutions, across every mode, for 37 Years. About HealthMine

HealthMine is a leading healthcare technology company that delivers Health Intelligence for plan members and plan sponsors. HealthMine's cloud-based Health Intelligence Solution facilitates better health outcomes and lowers healthcare costs by providing: 1) insight into health status and risk, 2) clinical guidance on necessary health actions, 3) personalized motivation to close gaps in care and 4) measurement of outcomes. The Health Intelligence Solution derives business value from all clinical and lifestyle health data including data from existing wellness programs. HealthMine has more than 1 million users and has saved health plan sponsors more than $100 million in healthcare costs. HealthMine is on the web at www.healthmine.com. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/57-of-medicare-plan-members-unsure-if-plan-offers-telemedicine-another-31-say-it-is-not-offered-healthmine-survey-300520932.html SOURCE HealthMine, Inc.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 17, 2017] SWITCH 2017 empowers innovators and influencers to create for a better world

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The second edition of SWITCH (Singapore Week of Innovation & TeCHnology) commenced this morning at Sands Expo and Convention Centre. In line with SWITCH's theme, 'Founding a New World', the opening ceremony stressed the importance of technology in creating a better world for humanity and featured announcements that promise to boost start-up and innovation growth in Singapore. Minister for Finance, Heng Swee Keat, gave the opening speech which was followed by a panel discussion on 'Imagining a New World with Technology' featuring Mike Descheneaux, President, Silicon Valley Bank; William Bao Bean, General Partner, SOSV; Taizo Son, CEO, Mistletoe; and Ben Goertzel, Chief Scientist, Hanson Robotics. Minister Heng announced the launch of Pollinate, a joint-polytechnic incubator programme that aims to foster collaborative innovation and enterprise. Jointly governed by Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic and Temasek Polytechnic, the programme will target growth stage start-ups that have products or services ready for market adoption, growth hacking and market expansion. Located at JTC LaunchPad @ one-north, Pollinate will provide start-ups with easy access to talent, and also promote innovative partnerships between start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises to solve existing industry problems. Echoing the need for innovators and influencers in Singapore to address issues of global importance, speakers at the opening panel discussion shared a vision of how innovation and creativity, combined with the power of technology, can create a better world for humanity. "Throughout history, technology has played a vital role in the progress of civilisations. No area of our lives would be what we know today, if not for the process of scientific discovery, which in turn leads to eciting and sometimes huge advances in technology. While we celebrate the positive impact of technology for humanity, we also need to be mindful of some of the possible risks it may bring to different communities around the world. We believe Singapore has an important role to play in building new technologies, as well as in shaping the discussions around the implications on society," said Steve Leonard, Founding CEO, SGInnovate and moderator at the opening panel.



SWITCH's first day will include the start of partner conferences like Convergence; Impact Hub Singapore's Meta Conversations: Tech & Humanity; and Ecosystem Day: Nature SciCafe Asia 2017 & Singapore QuickFire Challenge - Metabolic Disease Innovation. Over the next three days, SWITCH will also play host to conferences like Slush Singapore; TechInnovation; Women in Tech (Asia); Campus Party; and VentureCon. Besides conferences, SWITCH participants can look forward to viewing some of the latest technologies on the exhibition floors, as well as attend [email protected], a live pitching competition powered by Startup SG, an initiative of SPRING Singapore.

In partnership with JTC, SWITCH will also feature guided tours about the startup ecosystem in Singapore. Themed around four key tracks - ICT, Healthcare, FinTech and Engineering, the tours are part of the SWITCH ON @ LaunchPad event and will include visits to local startups and incubators located in JTC LaunchPad @ one-north. SWITCH will take place from 18 to 20 September 2017 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre. For more details on SWITCH's exhibitors, schedule, and speakers, please refer to Annexes A and B. To register for a SWITCH media pass, please write to [email protected] Photos and videos from SWITCH will be updated here: http://bit.ly/2w5VsB4 About SWITCH SWITCH (Singapore Week of Innovation & TeCHnology) is a leading "plug and play" platform in Asia that showcases the best ideas, technology and innovation from around the world. Through a series of complementing technology and innovation events held between 18 - 20 September 2017, SWITCH brings together the best minds to create exchanges that will shape our world. At SWITCH, interactions are the catalyst for change; at the end of the day, technology does not shape our future -- we do. SWITCH brings together partners from around the world in the technology, innovation and enterprise ecosystem, featuring exhibitions, conferences, workshops and activities revolving around topics such as open innovation, technology transfer, tech entrepreneurship, venture funding and talent development. SWITCH is brought to you by the National Research Foundation Singapore and organised by SGInnovate. SWITCH Partners include Campus Party, Convergence, Impact Hub Singapore, Nature SciCafe, Singapore Quickfire Challenge, [email protected], Slush Singapore, SWITCH ON @ LaunchPad, TechInnovation, VentureCon (e27) and Women in Tech Conference (Asia). For more information, please visit www.switchsg.org Press Contacts

Grace Chiang, SGInnovate

[email protected] Melody Uy, Ogilvy Public Relations

+65 6213 6997, [email protected] Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20170918/1944343-1LOGO SOURCE Singapore Week of Innovation & TeCHnology (SWITCH)

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] INNATE PHARMA, First half of 2017: delivering key clinical data and strengthening the pipeline

first half of 2017: DELIVERING KEY CLINICAL Data and strengthening the Pipeline Cash, cash equivalents and financial assets [1] for the Company amounted to 204.1m (million euros) as of June 30, 2017

Significant clinical progress within the period: Dose-escalation data of the ongoing Phase I trial evaluating IPH4102 showed a favorable safety profile and promising clinical activity Expansion of a Phase I/II trial evaluating lirilumab, conducted by Bristol-Myers Squibb, including a randomized cohort exploring Opdivo with or without lirilumab in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

Clinical-stage pipeline further strengthened with the acquisition of IPH5401, a first-in-class anti-C5aR antibody, from Novo Nordisk A/S (closed in July 2017)

Innate Pharma continues to advance its balanced portfolio of innovative partnered and proprietary immuno-oncology programs in line with its strategy to become a fully-integrated biopharmaceutical company Marseille, France, September 18, 2017, 7:00 AM CEST Innate Pharma SA (the "Company" - Euronext Paris: FR0010331421 - IPH) today reports its consolidated financial results for the first half of 2017. The summary of the condensed half-year consolidated financial statements is attached to this press release. During the period, Innate Pharma has continued to make significant progress across its portfolio of first-in-class clinical antibodies designed to harness the innate immune system. In June 2017, Innate Pharma presented results from the dose-escalation part of the Phase I trial evaluating IPH4102 at the ICML[2]. The data reported suggest that IPH4102 is well tolerated and shows promising signs of clinical activity in elderly and heavily pretreated patients with advanced cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL), which is an orphan disease, mostly with Sezary syndrome, a subtype with high unmet medical need. Innate Pharma is currently working on the next steps of the clinical development plan for IPH4102 and will present updated data of the ongoing Phase I trial at the EORTC CLTF[3] meeting in London in October. In March, the protocol of the ongoing Phase I/II study evaluating lirilumab, led by Bristol-Myers Squibb, was amended and expanded to include additional cohorts of Opdivo (nivolumab) plus lirilumab in solid tumors, including a cohort exploring Opdivo with or without lirilumab in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) and initial testing of the triplet combination of Opdivo, Yervoy (ipilimumab) and lirilumab in solid tumors. Finally, in June, Innate Pharma entered into an agreement with Novo Nordisk A/S granting the Company full worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize a first-in-class clinical-stage anti-C5aR antibody, now called IPH5401. IPH5401 complements Innate Pharma's current clinical-stage immuno-oncology pipeline and reinforces the Company's position in the field of tumor microenvironment beyond the adenosine pathway. Innate plans to start clinical trials with IPH5401 in oncology in 2018. Mondher Mahjoubi, Chief Executive Officer of Innate Pharma, commented: "We are continuing to leverage our deep scientific expertise in innate immunity to build a fully-integrated biopharmaceutical company with a growing portfolio of first-in-class programs. We have made great progress across key programs during the first half of 2017. The data presented for IPH4102 give us confidence to move this proprietary product into the next stage of clinical development. Moreover, I am proud that we could significantly strengthen our pipeline through the acquisition of IPH5401 from Novo Nordisk A/S and we look forward to advancing this first-in-class asset into the clinic in 2018." A conference call will be held today at 3:00pm (CEST) Dial in numbers: France and International: +33 (0)1 72 72 74 03 US only: +1 844 286 0643 PIN code: 20472515# The slideshow of the presentation will be made available on the Company's website 30 minutes before the conference begins. A replay will be available on Innate Pharma's website after the conference call. Financial highlights of the first half of 2017: The key elements of Innate Pharma's financial results for the first half of 2017 are as follows: Cash, cash equivalents and financial assets (current and non-current) amounting to 204.1m (million euros) as of June 30, 2017 (230.7m as of December 31, 2016). Financial liabilities amounted to 4.7m, including 3.5m of non-current liabilities (5.3m as of December 31, 2016, including 4.1m of non-current liabilities).

Revenue and other income amounting to 21.3m (20.7m for the first half of 2016). This amount results from licensing revenue (15.6m) and from research tax credit (5.7m). Revenue related to the licensing agreements mainly results from phasing of initial payment received by Innate Pharma in the context of the agreement signed in April 2015 with AstraZeneca/MedImmune.

Operating expenses amounting to 39.5m (23.6m for the first half of 2016), of which 80% are related to research and development. The variance of the research and development costs (31.6m compared to 20.3m for the first half of 2016) mainly results from higher subcontracting costs, which increased by 5.9m to 16.8m. This increase was mainly driven by the IPH4102 Phase I and other programs which are in IND-enabling studies.

A net loss for the first half of 2017 amounting to 23.4m (3.2m for the first half of 2016). The table below summarizes the IFRS consolidated financial statements for the six-month period ended June 30, 2017, including 2016 comparative information. In thousands of euros, except for data per share June 30, 2017 June 30,2016 Revenue and other income 21,274 20,685 Research and development (31,583) (20,273) General and administrative (7,922) (3,339) Net Operating expenses (39,505) (23,612) Operating income/(loss) (18,231) (2,927) Financial income 1,216 1,835 Financial expenses (6,344) (2,080) Net loss (23,359) (3,171) Weighted average number of shares outstanding (in thousands) 53,955 53,853 Net loss per share (0.43) (0.06) June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Cash, cash equivalents and financial assets[4] 204,115 230,664 Total assets 246,384 281,577 Shareholders' equity 68,909 86,169 Total financial debt 4,661 5,327 Pipeline update: Lirilumab (anti-KIR antibody), licensed to Bristol-Myers Squibb: Lirilumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that is designed to block the interaction between KIR2DL-1,-2,-3 inhibitory receptors and their ligands. Blocking these receptors facilitates activation of NK cells and potentially some subsets of T cells, ultimately leading to the destruction of tumor cells. Lirilumab is being evaluated by Bristol-Myers Squibb in clinical trials in combination with other agents in a variety of tumor types. In January 2017, the Company announced that, as per the licensing agreement for lirilumab, Bristol-Myers Squibb paid Innate Pharma a US$15 million milestone payment for the continued exploration of lirilumab in combination with Opdivo. The milestone payment followed the presentation of encouraging preliminary activity results from a Phase I/II trial in a cohort of patients with SCCHN presented in November 2016 at the SITC[5] annual meeting. In February 2017, the Company announced top-line results from the EffiKIR trial [6] . The study did not meet its primary efficacy endpoint of leukemia-free survival ("LFS"). There was no statistically significant difference between either lirilumab arms and the placebo arm on the LFS nor on other efficacy endpoints. The adverse events encountered with lirilumab were consistent with its previously reported safety profile. Data analyses are ongoing and the full trial data will be submitted to a future medical conference and for publication. However, these findings do not call into question the program development potential, in particular the use of lirilumab in combination with other immune checkpoint inhibitors.

. The study did not meet its primary efficacy endpoint of leukemia-free survival ("LFS"). There was no statistically significant difference between either lirilumab arms and the placebo arm on the LFS nor on other efficacy endpoints. The adverse events encountered with lirilumab were consistent with its previously reported safety profile. Data analyses are ongoing and the full trial data will be submitted to a future medical conference and for publication. However, these findings do not call into question the program development potential, in particular the use of lirilumab in combination with other immune checkpoint inhibitors. In March 2017, Innate Pharma announced that Bristol-Myers Squibb had amended the clinical trial protocol for its ongoing Phase I/II trial evaluating the safety and tolerability of lirilumab in combination with Opdivo in patients with advanced refractory solid tumors. Under the amended protocol, updated on clinicaltrials.gov, the study has expanded in scope to include additional cohorts of Opdivo plus lirilumab in solid tumors, including a randomized cohort exploring Opdivo with or without lirilumab in platinum refractory recurrent or metastatic SCCHN, and initial testing of the triplet combination of Opdivo, Yervoy and lirilumab in solid tumors. Monalizumab (anti-NKG2A antibody), partnered with AstraZeneca/Medimmune: Monalizumab is a first-in-class immune checkpoint inhibitor targeting NKG2A receptors expressed on tumor infiltrating cytotoxic CD8 T lymphocytes and NK cells. This monoclonal antibody is currently being tested in an exploratory program of Phase I or I/II clinical trials in various cancer indications in monotherapy and combinations. Clinical and preclinical data were presented in April 2017, at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 2017 Annual Meeting in Washington D.C., USA: Safety data from the dose-escalation part of a Phase Ib/II study evaluating monalizumab in combination with cetuximab in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: in this study, monalizumab plus cetuximab were well tolerated with no additional safety concerns compared to monalizumab or cetuximab alone. Preclinical data showed NKG2A expression on tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells in patients with head and neck cancer as well as synergy between treatment with a HPV vaccine and NKG2A blockade in a mouse tumor model.

Innate Pharma presented preclinical data for monalizumab, at the 3rd CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy conference, on September 6, 2017, in Frankfurt, Germany. Poster #A130 demonstrates that blocking both NKG2A/HLA-E and PD-1/PD-L1 pathways enhance anti-tumor efficacy of CD8+ T cells. The data show that the deletion of either NKG2A (Qa-1b) or PD-L1 significantly delays tumor growth, suggesting that both receptors are involved in the immune-escape of tumors. Combined PD-L1 and NKG2A blockade achieved a complete response of 82%, compared to 54% for anti-PD-L1 and 36% for anti-NKG2A alone. CD8+ tumor infiltrated lymphocytes (TILs) expressing high levels of PD-1 co-expressed high levels of NKG2A, raising the possibility that NKG2A blockade may potentiate PD-1/PD-L1 blockers by directly enhancing CD8+ T cell-mediated killing of tumors.

IPH4102 (anti-KIR3DL2 antibody): IPH4102 is a first-in-class cytotoxicity-inducing antibody currently being tested in a Phase I clinical trial for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas ("CTCL"), in particular their aggressive forms, Sezary syndrome and transformed mycosis fungoides. In May 2017, Innate Pharma announced the completion of the dose-escalation part of the Phase I trial evaluating IPH4102. Full dose-escalation safety results, as well as updated clinical activity data were presented in June 2017, at the ICML in Lugano : 25 patients, with a median age of 71 years old and a median number of four prior systemic treatments, were evaluable for safety (10 dose levels: 0.0001 to 10 mg/kg). The data from the trial indicate that IPH4102 was well tolerated with no dose-limiting toxicity. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was not reached. The majority of adverse events reported was typical for CTCL or reflected low grade infusion-related reactions. As of May 10, 2017, 24 patients were evaluable for clinical activity. In this population, best global overall response rate (ORR) was 41.7% and disease control rate (DCR) was 91.7% across all dose levels. Best global ORR and DCR reached 47.4% and 89.5% respectively in patients with Sezary syndrome (SS, n=19). Among the 9 patients with SS who achieved clinical responses, one had a global complete response [7] . 5 complete responses were seen in blood and 2 in skin (resp. 26% and 11%). Median duration of response (DOR) was 8.2 months in all patients and not reached in patients with SS. Median progression free survival (PFS) was 9.0 months in all patients and 10.8 months in patients with SS (range from 0.9 to 17.2). Pruritus was significantly decreased in patients with clinical response. Innate Pharma will present updated data from the ongoing Phase I trial at the EORTC CTLF meeting in London in October 2017.

In June 2017, IPH4102 was granted orphan drug designation in the United States for the treatment of CTCL, a designation it already had in the European Union. IPH5401 (anti-C5aR antibody): IPH5401 is a first-in-class therapeutic antibody that specifically binds and blocks C5a receptors (C5aR) expressed on subsets of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and neutrophils. Part of the innate immune system, these types of cells promote tumor growth by secreting inflammatory and angiogenic factors, and they potently suppress anti-tumor T and NK cells, and hamper the activities of PD-1 checkpoint blockers. C5a, a factor in the complement cascade, is often overexpressed in tumors, where it attracts and activates MDSC and neutrophils in the tumor microenvironment. On June 2, 2017, the Company announced that it entered into an agreement with Novo Nordisk A/S granting Innate Pharma full worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize a first-in-class clinical-stage anti-C5aR antibody (IPH5401). The terms of the transaction provide for a total upfront payment of 40.0m, of which 37.2m has been paid in new Innate Pharma shares (3,343,749) and 2.8m in cash. Novo Nordisk A/S will be eligible for 370.0m in development, regulatory and sales milestone payments. Novo Nordisk A/S will also be eligible for double digit royalties on net sales. Under the terms of the transaction, Innate Pharma acquired worldwide rights to anti-C5aR/IPH5401 in all indications from Novo Nordisk A/S. Innate Pharma issued a press release on July 13, following the acquisition of the Novo Nordisk A/S subsidiary owning the rights of anti-NKG2A. With the allocation of the newly issued shares in the Company, Novo Nordisk A/S's stake in the share capital of Innate Pharma increased from 10.3% to 15.5%. Novo Nordisk A/S has conducted two Phase I trials with anti-C5aR in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, where a good safety profile was demonstrated. Innate Pharma plans to start clinical trials with IPH5401 in oncology in 2018.

Innate Pharma presented preclinical data for IPH5401 at the 3rd CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR International Cancer Immunotherapy conference, on September 8, 2017, in Frankfurt, Germany. In poster#B184, the data demonstrate that IPH5401 selectively inhibits the activation of neutrophils. Moreover, the data show that the combined administration of anti-C5aR with anti-PD-1 reduced tumor growth. These data suggest that C5aR blockade may result in a more permissive environment for immune-mediated tumor killing and treatment with checkpoint inhibitors.

Corporate update: Management and governance changes: In June 2017, the Company announced the resignation of Nicolai Wagtmann, PhD, Executive Vice-President and Chief Scientific Officer of Innate Pharma, and member of the Executive Board, due to personal reasons to pursue a career in the US.

Yannis Morel, PhD, Executive Vice President, Chief Business Officer and member of the Executive Board, has been appointed Executive Vice-President Products Portfolio Strategy & Business development. In this role, Yannis now oversees the strategy of Innate's growing portfolio of clinical and preclinical assets. Yannis assumes the role of interim CSO.

During the period, Bpifrance Participations, represented by Mailys Ferrere, was appointed to the Supervisory Board. Prof. Jean-Charles Soria, who has been named Senior Vice President, Head of Oncology Innovative Medicines at MedImmune, resigned from his mandate. Team: As at June 30 2017, the headcount was 171 employees. About Innate Pharma: Innate Pharma S.A. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to improving cancer treatment and clinical outcomes for patients through first-in-class therapeutic antibodies that harness the innate immunity. Innate Pharma specializes in immuno-oncology, a new therapeutic field that is changing cancer treatment by mobilizing the power of the body's immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells. The Company's broad pipeline includes four first-in-class clinical stage antibodies as well as preclinical candidates and technologies that have the potential to address a broad range of cancer indications with high unmet medical needs. Innate Pharma has pioneered the discovery and development of checkpoint inhibitors, with a unique expertise and understanding of Natural Killer cell biology. This innovative approach has resulted in major alliances with leaders in the biopharmaceutical industry including AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Novo Nordisk A/S and Sanofi. Innate Pharma is building the foundations to become a fully-integrated biopharmaceutical company. Based in Marseille, France, Innate Pharma has more than 170 employees and is listed on Euronext Paris. Learn more about Innate Pharma at www.innate-pharma.com Information about Innate Pharma shares: ISIN code

Ticker code FR0010331421

IPH Disclaimer: This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. Although the company believes its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, which could cause actul results to differ materially from those anticipated. For a discussion of risks and uncertainties which could cause the company's actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the Risk Factors ("Facteurs de Risque") section of the Document de Reference prospectus filed with the AMF, which is available on the AMF website (http://www.amf-france.org) or on Innate Pharma's website.



This press release and the information contained herein do not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe to shares in Innate Pharma in any country. For additional information, please contact:

Investors







Innate Pharma



Dr Markus Metzger / Jerome Marino

Investor relations



Tel.: +33 (0)4 30 30 30 30



[email protected]



International Media







Consilium Strategic Communications



Mary-Jane Elliott /

Jessica Hodgson / Philippa Gardner



Tel.: +44 (0)20 3709 5700



[email protected]



French Media







ATCG Press



Marie Puvieux



Mob: +33 (0)6 10 54 36 72



[email protected]





Interim Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes Statement of financial position

(in thousand euros) June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Assets Cash and cash equivalents 151,003 175,906 Short-term investments 20,481 21,782 Current receivables 24,288 32,390 Total current assets 195,772 230,078 Intangible assets 7,720 9,075 Tangible assets 9,834 9,094 Non-current financial assets 32,631 32,975 Other non-current assets 427 355 Total non-current assets 50,612 51,499 Total assets 246,384 281,577 Liabilities Trade payables 18,182 20,265 Financial liabilities - Current portion 1,202 1,264 Deferred revenue - Current portion 56,643 54,912 Total current liabilities 76,027 76,441 Financial liabilities - Non-current portion 3,459 4,063 Defined benefit obligations 2,422 2,418 Deferred revenue - Non-current portion 95,065 112,348 Provisions 502 136 Total non-current liabilities 101,448 118,965 Share capital 2,701 2,696 Share premium 193,194 187,571 Consolidated reserves (103,594) (116,235) Net income (loss) (23,359) 12,640 Other reserves (33) (503) Total shareholders' equity attributable to equity holders of the Company 68,909 86,169 Total liabilities and equity 246,384 281,577 Statement of income

(in thousand euros) June 30, 2017 June 30, 2016 Revenue from collaboration and licensing agreements 15,554 16,659 Government financing for research expenditures 5,720 4,025 Revenue and other income 21,274 20,685 Research and development (31,583) (20,273) General and administrative (7,922) (3,339) Net operating expenses (39,505) (23,612) Operating income (loss) (18,231) (2,927) Financial income 1,216 1,835 Financial expenses (6,344) (2,080) Net income (loss) before tax (23,359) (3,171) Income tax expense - - Net income (loss) (23,359) (3,171) Net income (loss) per share attributable to the equity holders of the Company: (in  per share) - basic (0.43) (0.06) - diluted (0.43) (0.06)

Statement of cash flows

(in thousand euros) June 30, 2017 June 30, 2016 Net income (loss) (23,359) (3,171) Depreciation and amortization 2,127 1,563 Provisions for defined benefit obligations 190 460 Provisions for charges 366 - Share-based payments 5,177 - Variance of depreciation on financial assets (218) (600) Foreign exchanges (gains) / losses on financial instruments 2,682 1,027 Variance on accrued interests on financial instruments (84) (152) Gains on assets and other financial assets (421) (748) Net interests paid 58 65 Operating cash flow before change in working capital (13,482) (1,555) Change in working capital (9,591) (20,513) Net cash generated from / (used in) operating activities: (23,072) (22,067) Purchase of intangible assets (181) (7,740) Purchase of tangible assets (1,314) (1,018) Disposal of tangible assets 39 Purchase of current financial assets - (9,469) Purchase of non-current financial assets (500) (1,527) Disposal of current financial assets - 48,198 Disposal of non-current financial assets 4 - Purchase of other non-current assets (71) - Gains on other financial assets 421 748 Net cash generated from / (used in) investing activities: (1,601) 29,193 Transactions on treasury shares - 14 Issue of own shares 450 141 Repayment of financial liabilities (667) (240) Net interests paid (58) (65) Net cash generated from financing activities: (274) (150) Effect of the exchange rate changes 44 7 Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents: (24,903) 6,982 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period: 175,906 152,870 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period: 151,003 159,852

Revenue and other income The following table summarizes operating revenue for the periods under review: In thousands of euros June 30, 2017 June 30, 2016 Revenue from collaboration and licensing agreements 15,554 16,659 Government funding for research expenditures 5,720 4,025 Revenue and other income 21,274 20,685 Revenue from collaboration and licensing agreements for the first half of 2017 entirely stems from the agreement signed with AstraZeneca. The related revenue decreased by 0.6m, resulting from the fall in the costs related to this agreement (the initial payment being recognized on the basis of the recognized costs). For the first half of 2016, the line item also included revenue relating to the agreement signed with Bristol-Myers Squibb. Government funding for research expenditures are mainly composed of research tax credit (5.7m for the first half of 2017 compared to 4.0m for the first half of 2016). This variance results from the following: For the first half of 2017, the eligible expenses included the amortization expense relating to the anti-NKG2A intangible asset. This resulted from the decision of the Administrative appeal court of Bordeaux to include this kind of expenses (judgement date March 16, 2016);

The rise in staff costs resulted from the increase of the R&D staff. Each of these two elements had a positive impact of 0.8m. The research tax credit relating to the fiscal year 2016, amounting to 9.1m, was collected in July 2017 after deduction of the corporate tax relating to the same fiscal year (0.3m). Operating expenses, by business function The following table breaks down the operating expenses by function for the six-month period ended June 30th, 2017, compared to 2016's first half: In thousands of euros June 30, 2017 June 30, 2016 Research and development expenses (31,583) (20,273) General and administrative expenses (7,922) (3,339) Operating expenses (39,505) (23,612) Research and development ("R&D") expenses include the cost of employees assigned to research and development operations (including employees assigned to work under the collaboration and licensing agreements), subcontracting costs (research, preclinical development and clinical development) as well as costs of materials (reagents and other consumables) and pharmaceutical products. The increase in R&D expenses between the two periods under review (31.6m as of June 30, 2017 compared to 20.3m as of June 30, 2016, or +56%) mainly resulted from both higher subcontracting costs (+5.9m) and share-based compensation expenses (+2.2m, non-cash item). Higher subcontracting costs were mainly driven by IPH4102 (+4.2m). R&D expenses accounted for 80% of operating expenses for the six-month period ended June 30, 2017 (2016: 86%). General and administrative ("G&A") expenses mostly comprise costs of the "support" staff as well as external expenses for the management and development of our business. The rise in costs mainly resulted from an increase in share-based compensation (+3.0m, non-cash item), non-scientific advisories (+1.2m) and staff costs other than share-based compensation (+0.5m). G&A expenses accounted for 20% of operating expenses for the six-month period ended June 30, 2017 (2016: 14%). During the second half of 2016, the Company granted some equity instruments to its employees, including to Mr. Mahjoubi following his appointment as Chairman of the executive board. Given these instruments include an acquisition period (one or three years), their fair value is spread over the relevant period according to IFRS 2. There was no share-based compensation expense for the first half of 2016. Indeed, the instruments granted in 2015 did not include any acquisition period. Consequently, their fair value was entirely recognized in 2015. Operating expenses, by business nature The following table breaks down the operating expenses by function for the six-month period ended June 30th, 2017, compared to 2016's first half: In thousands of euros June 30, 2017 June 30, 2016 Costs of supplies and consumable materials (1,900) (1,568) Intellectual property expenses (899) (654) Other purchases and external expenses (21,627) (13,885) Employee benefits other than share-based compensation (7,540) (5,363) Share-based payments (5,177) - Depreciation and amortization (2,128) (1,563) Other income and (expenses), nets (234) (580) Operating expenses (39,505) (23,612) The changes in the most significant line items can be analyzed as follows: Costs of supplies and consumable materials: the rise in these expenses between the two periods (+0.3m) mainly resulted from the increase in discovery activities;

Other purchases and external expenses: the variance of the line item between the two periods was driven by the increase of the subcontracting costs (+5.9m, see previous page);

Employee benefits other than share-based compensation: the increase of the line item resulted from the rise in the employees (171 as of June 30, 2017 vs. 127 as of June 30, 2016);

Share-based payments: the expense recognized for the first half of 2017 relates to a part of the fair value of the free shares and free preferred shares issued in 2016. These instruments include a condition requiring presence. As a consequence, the fair value of these instruments were deferred and recognized as expenses during the acquisition periods. This expense is a non-cash item.

Depreciation and amortization: the rise of the line item mainly resulted from the amortization relating to the anti-NKG2A intangible asset (1.5m for the first half of 2017 vs. 1.2m for the first half of 2016);

Other income and expenses, net: the fall of the other income and expenses mainly resulted from the "contribution sociale de solidarite" based on the turnover of the fiscal year 2015 (0.3m recognized during the first half of 2016). Financial results Financial income is mainly composed of interest related to cash, cash equivalents and financial assets. Financial expenses for the first half of 2017 are mainly composed of exchange losses (6.2m), resulting from the recovery of the Euro versus the U.S. dollar as of June 30, 2017 compared to December 31, 2016. This variance had an adverse impact on the valuation in Euro of the cash, cash equivalents and financial assets held in U.S. dollar in order to face the expenses expected to be paid in U.S. dollar. Balance sheet items Cash, cash equivalents and financial assets (current and non-current) amounted to 204.1m as of June 30, 2017, as compared to 230.7m as of December 31, 2016. Cash and cash equivalents do not include the reimbursement of the 2016 research tax credit which was collected in July 2017 (9.1m). Consequently, the amount of net cash as of June 30, 2017 amounted to 170.3m (196.4m as of December 31, 2016). Net cash is equal to cash, cash equivalents and current financial assets less current financial liabilities. Since its incorporation in 1999, the Company has been primarily financed by revenue from its out-licensing activities (mostly in relation to the agreements with Novo Nordisk A/S and Bristol-Myers Squibb) and by issuing new shares. The Company also generated cash from government financing for research expenditure (zero interest loan for innovation) and non-interest-bearing repayable advances (BPI France). As of June 30, 2017, these repayable advances amount to 1.2m, of which 0.3m classified as current financial liabilities and 0.9m as non-current financial liabilities. The other key balance sheet items as of June 30, 2017 are as follows: Deferred revenue of 151.7m relating to the remainder of the initial payment from AstraZeneca not yet recognized as revenue (including 95.1m booked as 'Deferred revenue - non-current portion');

Receivables from the French government in relation to the research tax credit for 2016 and the six-month period ended June 30, 2017 (14.7m);

Intangible assets for a net book value of 7.7m, mainly corresponding to the rights and licenses relating to the acquisition of the monalizumab and anti-CD39 programs;

Shareholders' equity of 68.9m including the net loss for the period (23.4m). Cash-flow items The net cash flow consumed over the six-month period ended June 30, 2017 amounted to -24.9m, compared to a net cash flow of +7.0m generated for the same year-ago period. Net cash flows generated during the first half of 2016 mainly resulted from the disposal of current financial instruments. The cash flow generated during the period under review mainly results from the following: Net cash used in operating activities of 23.1m, mainly resulting from research and development activities and personnel expenses;

Net cash used in investing activities for an amount of 1.6m, mainly resulting from the purchase of tangible assets;

Net cash used in financing activities for an amount of 0.3m, mainly resulting from the reimbursement of finance-leases (principal and interest). Key elements since January 1, 2017 On February 6, 2017, the Company announced top-line results from the EffiKIR trial evaluating the efficacy of lirilumab as a single agent in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia. The trial did not meet the primary efficacy endpoint but confirmed the safety profile of lirilumab as a monotherapy. This result does not call the potential of lirilumab into question which is currently being tested by Bristol-Myers Squibb in a broad and comprehensive combination program in multiple indications.

On June 2, 2017, the Company announced that it entered into an agreement with Novo Nordisk A/S granting Innate Pharma full worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize a first-in-class clinical-stage anti-C5aR antibody (IPH5401). The terms of the transaction provide for a total upfront payment of 40.0m, of which 37.2m will be paid in new Innate Pharma shares and 2.8m in cash. Novo Nordisk A/S will be eligible for 370.0m in development, regulatory and sales milestone payments. Novo Nordisk A/S will also be eligible for double digit royalties on net sales. After the issuance of the new Innate Pharma shares, the stake of Novo Nordisk A/S in Innate Pharma increased from 10.3% to 15.5%. This is a post balance sheet event since the acquisition of the Novo Nordisk A/S subsidiary owning the rights of anti-NKG2A occurred in July 2017.

On June 26, 2017, the Company announced that Nicolai Wagtmann, PhD, Executive Vice-President and Chief Scientific Officer of Innate Pharma, and member of the Executive Board, has resigned due to personal reasons to pursue a career in the US. A recruitment process is underway and an announcement about his successor will be made in due time. Furthermore, Yannis Morel, PhD, Executive Vice President, Chief Business Officer and member of the Executive Board, has been promoted to EVP Products portfolio strategy & Business development. He now oversees the strategy of the Innate Pharma's growing portfolio of clinical and preclinical assets. Yannis also assumes the role as interim CSO. Post period event To cope with the midterm increase in its staff and activities, the Company initiated a project regarding the construction of a new building and obtained a building permit in March 2017. On July 3, 2017, the Company subscribed for a loan from Societe Generale in order to finance the building of its future headquarters. The maximum amount of this loan is 15.2m. Meanwhile, the Company examines the expansion and reorganization of its current premises to handle short-term staff increase. Nota The interim consolidated financial statements for the six-month period ended June 30, 2017 have been subject to a limited review by our Statutory Auditors and were approved by the Executive Board of the Company on September 12, 2017. They were reviewed by the Supervisory Board of the Company on September 15, 2017. They will not be submitted for approval to the general meeting of shareholders. Risk factors Risk factors identified by the Company are presented in paragraph 1.9 of the registration document ("Document de Reference") submitted to the French stock-market regulator, the "Autorite des Marches Financiers", on March 31, 2017 (AMF number D.17-0282). The main risks and uncertainties the Company may face in the six remaining months of the year are the same as the ones presented in the registration document available on the internet website of the Company. Not only may these risks and uncertainties occur during the six months remaining in the financial year but also in the years to come. Related party transactions Transactions with related parties during the periods under review are disclosed in Note 18 to the interim consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IAS 34 revised. No material transaction was concluded with a member of the executive committee or the Supervisory Board following the date of the 2016 registration document.





[1] Including current and non-current financial assets [2] International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma [3] European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Cutaneous Lumphoma Task Force Meeting [4] Current and non-current [5] Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer [6] A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II trial testing the efficacy of lirilumab as a single agent maintenance treatment in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia in first complete remission. [7] In CTCL, global clinical response assessment is a composite of response evaluation in all organs involved with tumor cells, such as skin, blood, lymph nodes and viscera (E. Olsen et al, JCO 2011).

Attachments: //www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6d0903f3-9d61-412c-8b44-69a283d3f4f3

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] 3D Systems Showcases Most Comprehensive Additive Manufacturing Solutions at EMO Hannover 2017

- Complete ecosystem of printers, materials, software and services unlocks full potential of Additive Manufacturing HANNOVER, Germany, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- 3D Systems, the inventor of 3D printing, announced today that it will showcase how customers are using its end-to-end additive manufacturing solutions to optimize designs, enhance workflows, bring products to market faster and transform manufacturing workflows at EMO Hannover 2017, the leading international trade fair for the metalworking industry, September 18-23. 3D Systems' technology and industry experts will be located in hall 27, booth B69. Leader in additive manufacturing market Today, 3D Systems provides a complete ecosystem encompassing 3D printers for metal and plastic additive manufacturing, print materials, software, and on demand manufacturing services. In addition, an extensive partner network helps its broadening range of customers improve their production outcomes, and supports the integration of additive manufacturing in their businesses. Highlighted at the show is the company's expertise in high-volume, direct metal printing solutions for aerospace, automotive, and healthcare industries. This includes direct metal printers like 3D Systems' ProX DMP 320, the high precision, high throughput direct metal printer optimized for critical applications requiring complex, chemically-pure titanium, stainless steel or nickel super alloy parts. 3D Systems will also present its recently introduced LaserForm metal materials for precision metal part production in healthcare, aerospace, dental and other applications. As part of the EMO exhibition, 3D Systems will display how traditionally manufactured metal parts are transformed into much lighter, highly cost-effective parts -- fully optimized to function in their intended environment using 3D Systems additive manufacturing solutions portfolio. To address production requirements for consistency and repeatability of additive manufactured parts, the company will demonstrate DMP Vision, enabling process monitoring for new and existing ProX DMP 320 customers. The DMP hardware and software kit facilitates layer-by-layer image data collection and analytics to help customers increase precision and productivity in their metal printing workflow. These insights provide users with helpful feedback to optimize their build strategy and regulate their builds for improved quality control, reporting, and process archiving. Today in a separate company issued press release, 3D Systems announced Geomagic Control X 2018. Designed for modern 3D scan data processing and inspection, Geomagic Control X 2018 builds upon its foundation to meet the demands of aerospace and automotive manufacturers.



Offering the same easy-to-use tools as the previous version of the platform, Geomagic Control X 2018's scanner-agnostic platform also provides integrated capabilities including simplified and automated airfoil analysis, surface-analysis tools to instantly identify corrosion and denting, and comparative analysis tools. As a leading provider of additive manufacturing solutions, 3D Systems will also display 3DXpert, an all-in-one software solution for metal printers that saves users significant time and money by eliminating the need for multiple software packages, and delivers advanced capabilities in print preparation, supports and structure optimization, slicing, and post-processing.

3DXpert is bundled with all 3D Systems' direct metal printers to streamline precision metal workflows for customers across applications and industries. Attendees will also experience the company's ProJet MJP 2500W and VisiJet M2 CAST RealWax material, an ideal solution for metal industrial casting applications. The affordable ProJet MJP 2500W combines 3.7 times larger build volume and up to 10 times faster print speeds than similar class printers with rapid single lane printing for efficient, high volume production of 100 percent wax precision metal casting patterns . Also announced today in a separate company release is GibbsCAM 12, the latest version of 3D Systems' CAM software for production manufacturing in high-end, Multi-Task Machining (MTM), mill/turn and production manufacturing. The new version offers an innovative user interface and post-processing capabilities to continue to give users "world-class" quality code for their CNC machines. At EMO, 3D Systems will also showcase its On Demand Manufacturing services, which empower designers and engineers with the tools to design, iterate, and produce quality parts directly from digital 3D files. A full spectrum of conventional and additive manufacturing technologies is available to help advance projects, timelines and goals, including fast-turn 3D printed parts, advanced prototyping with assembly and finishing services, appearance models, and low volume manufacturing including CNC, urethane casting and injection tooling. "EMO Hannover is the ideal showcase for us to demonstrate our leading precision metal solutions to customers who require the highest of standards for surface finish, resolution and quality parts for a range of industries," said Herbert Koeck, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Go to Market, 3D Systems. "We are committed to providing solutions that deliver productivity, repeatability, durability and effective total cost of operations to enable 3D production at scale for our customers." Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In many cases, forward looking statements can be identified by terms such as "believes," "belief," "expects," "may," "will," "estimates," "intends," "anticipates" or "plans" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based upon management's beliefs, assumptions and current expectations and may include comments as to the company's beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside the control of the company. The factors described under the headings "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors" in the company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as other factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected or predicted in forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at which such performance or results will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included are made only as the date of the statement. 3D Systems undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements made by management or on its behalf, whether as a result of future developments, subsequent events or circumstances or otherwise. About 3D Systems

3D Systems provides comprehensive 3D products and services, including 3D printers, print materials, on demand manufacturing services and digital design tools. Its ecosystem supports advanced applications from the product design shop to the factory floor to the operating room. 3D Systems' precision healthcare capabilities include simulation, Virtual Surgical Planning, and printing of medical and dental devices as well as patient-specific surgical instruments. As the originator of 3D printing and a shaper of future 3D solutions, 3D Systems has spent its 30-year history enabling professionals and companies to optimize their designs, transform their workflows, bring innovative products to market and drive new business models. More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/557172/3D_Systems_Prox_DMP_320.jpg



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Eleven Muslims were killed during the state-wide communal riots in Gujarat in 2002. A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

By India Today Web Desk: Appearing as Maya Kodnani's witness in the 2002 Naroda Gam massacre case, BJP president Amit Shah today told the special SIT court that she was with him in Gujarat Assembly on the day, and not in the Ahmedabad locality where 11 Muslims were killed.

"Maya Kodnani was not present in Naroda Gam. She was inside the state Assembly at 8.30 am," Shah, who finally appeared before the special SIT court in Ahmedabad as Kodnani's defence witness, said.

advertisement

"From 9:30 am to 9:45 am, I was at the Civil Hospital and I met Maya Kodnani there. I was surrounded by people when I left hospital. Maya Kodnani and I were taken to our respective cars in police jeep. It was 11-11:15 am that time," Shah said.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) court is hearing the 2002 Naroda Gam riot case, in which 11 Muslims were killed during the state-wide communal riots following the burning of a train allegedly by Muslims in Godhra. Kodnani, a former Gujarat minister, is the main accused.

The massacre is one of the nine major 2002 communal riots cases which were investigated by the SIT. A total of 82 persons are facing trial in the case.

KODNANI DIDN'T HAVE SHAH'S ADDRESS

Earlier, Kodnani had failed twice to give the address to which the summons to Shah were to be issued. She was given four days each time to find out and submit the address on which the court summons could be issued to Shah. The court had finally said it will not re-issue the summons in case Shah fails to present himself today.

Kodnani, in her application to prove her innocence, said that on the day of incident she had visited Sola civil hospital after attending the state Legislative Assembly. She claimed in the application that Shah, who was an MLA at that time, was also present at the Sola civil hospital, where bodies of 'karsevaks' killed in the Sabarmati train burning incident were brought from Godhra.

Kodnani, who was then a minister in the Narendra Modi-led state government , has already been convicted and sentenced to 28 years in jail in the case of riot at Naroda Patiya where 97 people were massacred.

Three weeks back, the Supreme Court had asked the SIT court to conclude the trial within four months.

--- ENDS ---
[September 18, 2017] Webhelp Becomes Key Player in Regtech BPO with the Acquisition of GreenPoint

LONDON, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global customer experience and BPO company, Webhelp, has announced the acquisition of top French firm, GreenPoint. GreenPoint is a pioneer in digital and mobile management of Know Your Customer (KYC), digital processing of customers' records and customer on-boarding. The company is experiencing rapid growth as demand for compliant digital and mobile solutions for customer on-boarding and identification increases in parallel with strengthening regulatory requirements which are being enforced to protect consumers upon subscription to a company or service. By 2020, European banks will be spending more than one billion euros annually on their KYC management according to the strategy consulting firm Roland Berger. This acquisition further strengthens Webhelp's ability to service regulated clients and solidifies its regtech BPO offering by creating Webhelp KYC Services (WKS). Sandrine Asseraf, General Counsel and member of the Executive Committee of Webhelp, said: "Webhelp is very excited about the acquisition of GreenPoint. There are a number of business, operational and technical synergies between our companies. By working together Webhelp will be able to offer enhanced solutions and improve the function of digitising KYC and the on-boarding processes of our clients. The creation of WKS completes Webhelp's ambition to develop more holistic regtech BPO solutions to suit the environment of increased regulation and digitisation in whch we are now operating."



GreenPoint processes several million documents per year and supports a number of key players in a range of regulated sectors, including: Mangopay (Fintech), Plutus (Blockchain Tap & Pay), Bourse Direct (Online Trading), Unilend (Crowdlending), Verlingue (Insurance), Century21 (Real Estate) and Winamax (Online Games and Betting). The founders of GreenPoint, Benoit Dumortier and Herve de Kermadec, will lead the development and day to day management of the newly formed Webhelp KYC Services (WKS), which will continue to be located at GreenPoint's office in Issy-Les-Moulineaux, France.

Herve de Kermadec and Benoit Dumortier, commented: "We are very happy to join Webhelp. The international presence and the expertise of the group will allow us to accelerate our development with key accounts by taking advantage of our technological advancement and the striking power of Webhelp. Bringing together our know-how will also strengthen our capabilities of innovation in on-boarding solutions both online and via video which are always more agile, international and client experience oriented." Since 2014, Webhelp's acquisition strategy has been to grow the business both geographically and by sector expertise. GreenPoint follows the recent opening of a new location in Riga, Latvia and acquisition of Dutch voice and speech technology business, Telecats. In 2016, Webhelp acquired social media monitoring and strategy business Netino, and digital and mobile customer experience experts, MyStudioFactory. This growth demonstrates Webhelp's commitment to becoming the first choice BPO partner across all areas of customer experience. About Webhelp Webhelp is a global business process outsourcer (BPO), specialising in customer experience and payment management in addition to sales and marketing services across voice, social and digital channels. From more than 100 sites in 28 countries with an over 35,000-strong team, our focus is on engineering performance improvements and delivering a real and lasting transformation in our clients' operating models to generate financial advantage. We partner with some of the world's most progressive brands including Sky, Shop Direct, Bouygues, Direct Energie, KPN, Vodafone, La Redoute, Michael Kors and Valentino. Headquartered in Paris, France, the company has grown its revenues by more than 250% in the last 4 years by investing in its people, the environment they work in and developing its analytical and operating capability to deliver a transformational outsourcing proposition that addresses the challenges of an omni-channel world. Webhelp is owned by its management and KKR, a leading global investment firm, as of 2016. More information can be found at http://www.webhelp.com



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Philips introduces new OB/GYN ultrasound innovations at ISUOG 2017

AMSTERDAM and VIENNA, Austria, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced new OB/GYN innovations, aBiometry AssistA.I, TouchVue and Tilt[1], as well as the eL18-4 transducer[2] available on Philips EPIQ 7 and 5 and Affiniti 70 ultrasound systems. Showcased at the 27th World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG), Philips' OB/GYN ultrasound solutions are designed to give clinicians more information earlier in pregnancy, making it easier to provide a confident diagnosis and overcome diagnostic challenges. They feature innovations such as anatomical intelligence, fingertip control and enhanced imaging versatility. Philips will also debut its new InnoSight touch-screen based diagnostic compact ultrasound, which offers exceptional image quality and performance. "At Philips, we are committed to meeting the unique and growing needs of OB/GYNs and their patients through innovation," said Vitor Rocha, Ultrasound Business Leader at Philips. "Deeper levels of definition and clarity enable clinicians to make early, evidence-based decisions, and our solutions with ergonomic tools help to further optimize workflow to provide clinicians more time with patients. Our ultrasound solutions are designed for life, giving clinicians diagnostic confidence and their patients peace of mind." Solutions Today and Tomorrow

Philips will showcase its wide portfolio of OB/GYN ultrasound tools at ISUOG 2017, including the newly debuted: aBiometry Assist A.I. , with its anatomical intelligence of fetal anatomy that preplaces measurement cursors on selected structures, it reduces conventional measurement steps to streamline fetal measurement and reporting workflow.

, with its anatomical intelligence of fetal anatomy that preplaces measurement cursors on selected structures, it reduces conventional measurement steps to streamline fetal measurement and reporting workflow. TrueVue with TouchVue interface , utilizes the EPIQ touch panel allowing users to intuitively interact and direct both the volume rotation and internal light source, creating photorealistic 3D fetal images that allow deeper connection between the fetus and future parents.

, utilizes the EPIQ touch panel allowing users to intuitively interact and direct both the volume rotation and internal light source, creating photorealistic 3D fetal images that allow deeper connection between the fetus and future parents. Tilt maximizes OB/GYN imging versatility with a new 2D Tilt feature of the 3D9-v3 transducer allowing for lateral scanning of anatomical structures that are off-axis without having to manually angle the transducer to provide more comfort to the patient.

maximizes OB/GYN imging versatility with a new 2D Tilt feature of the 3D9-v3 transducer allowing for lateral scanning of anatomical structures that are off-axis without having to manually angle the transducer to provide more comfort to the patient. The eL18-4 transducer features a multi-row array configuration for full electronic focusing of the elevation plan to provide imaging with exceptional detail resolution and tissue uniformity for clinical solutions including obstetrics.

features a multi-row array configuration for full electronic focusing of the elevation plan to provide imaging with exceptional detail resolution and tissue uniformity for clinical solutions including obstetrics. The new InnoSight diagnostic compact ultrasound system features an ergonomic, intuitive design and clinical versatility to meet the mobility needs across a wide range of applications.



GlassVue transparent 3D visualization, with its internal light source, which provides an early, more transparent view of the fetal anatomy, aRevealA.I. Ultrasound (AIUS) 3D fetal face algorithm that automatically removes extraneous information to quickly and easily reveal the 3D fetal face, and MaxVue, which allows clinicians to experience ultrasound imaging in 16:9 Full High Definition (FHD). "Philips' latest OB/GYN ultrasound offerings provide clinicians with the tools to deliver diagnostic confidence needed to deliver the best care for patients," said Dr. Michael Ruma, maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Perinatal Associates of New Mexico. "The beginning of a new life is a special time, and Philips' solutions allow clinicians to focus on the needs of each expecting mother."

For more information on Philips' OB/GYN ultrasound offerings, including, aBiometry AssistA.I, TouchVue and Tilt, visit http://philips.to/2qpPd7F. Stop by the Philips booth (#2) at ISUOG 2017, in Vienna, Austria, from September 16-19, to experience its latest advancements in OB/GYN ultrasound, and follow @PhilipsLiveFrom http://www.philips.com/ecr for updates throughout the congress. [1] aBiometry AssistA.I, TouchVue and Tilt are 510(k) pending and not yet available in the USA

[2] The eL18-4 transducer is 510(k) pending and not yet available in the USA For further information, please contact:

Alicia Cafardi

Philips Group Press Office

Mobile: +1 412 523 9616

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @aliciacafardi Sarah Haeger

Philips Ultrasound

Mobile: +1 206-920-8726

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @sarahhaeger About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and enabling better outcomes across the health continuum from healthy living and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment and home care. Philips leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver integrated solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring and health informatics, as well as in consumer health and home care. Philips' health technology portfolio generated 2016 sales of EUR 17.4 billion and employs approximately 71,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/philips-introduces-new-obgyn-ultrasound-innovations-at-isuog-2017-300520969.html SOURCE Royal Philips

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Pratt & Whitney Continues Adaptive Engine Breakthroughs with Latest Tests

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), today announced it has successfully completed testing of an adaptive three-stream fan in an engine with an F135 core as part of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory's Adaptive Engine Technology Development (AETD) program. Successful testing of the three-stream engine architecture demonstrates Pratt & Whitney is well positioned to transition adaptive engine technology to meet future U.S. Air Force requirements for combat aircraft propulsion. "Preliminary data from the test indicates our three-stream fan has met or exceeded expectations with respect to performance as well as the integrity of the turbofan machinery and fan module," said Matthew Bromberg, president, Pratt & Whitney Military Engines. "This is an important milestone on the path toward the advancement and maturation of a next generation adaptive engine which will enable the warfighter to stay well ahead of future and emerging threats." Modern military turbofan engines have two airstreams  one that passes through the core of the engine, and another that bypasses the core. The development of a third stream provides an extra source of air flow to improve propulsive efficiency and lower fuel burn, or to deliver additional air flow through the core for higher thrust and cooling air. Utilizing a third stream of air that can be modulated to adapt the engine's performance across the flight envelope means a fighter can have the best of both worlds by accessing an on-demand increase in thrust or smoothly shift to highly efficient operations during cruise. This capability provides an optimal balance for combat scenarios requiring both high-end acceleration and increase range.



The adaptive three-stream fan technology leverages and improves upon Pratt & Whitney's experience as the only provider of fifth generation fighter engines  the F119 and F135, which power the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, respectively. While Pratt & Whitney is demonstrating the efficacy of a three-stream architecture under AETD, it is also maturing other advanced propulsion technologies considered essential for high-speed and long-endurance performance requirements. This includes adaptive control systems as well as improved integrated power and thermal management capacity which can enable more sensors, data fusion, electronic warfare, and directed energy. The goal of the AETD program is to provide a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and a 10 percent improvement in thrust levels compared to today's fifth-generation combat aircraft engines.

"From the development of the very first adaptive engine, the J58, which powered the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, to today's F135 STOVL variant, our decades of experience with adaptive engine technology are unmatched," said Bromberg. "We look forward to continuing work with our Air Force customer to advance the next generation of military fighter engine technology under the final phase of AETD, and beyond through the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP)." The AETD fan test was conducted at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex, located on Arnold Air Force Base in Tullahoma, Tenn. Later this year, Pratt & Whitney plans to conduct additional adaptive engine testing on a new high efficiency engine core developed under the AETD program. Watch this video to learn more about Pratt & Whitney's unrivaled experience with adaptive engines. 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. For more information about Pratt & Whitney, visit http://www.pratt-whitney.com. 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] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pratt--whitney-continues-adaptive-engine-breakthroughs-with-latest-tests-300520985.html SOURCE Pratt & Whitney

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Sikorsky Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of Forward Stocking Location in Stavanger

STAVANGER, Norway, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is celebrating the first year of operations for its Stavanger, Norway-based Forward Stocking Location (FSL). The Stavanger FSL supports the largest S-92 helicopter operating region in the world and provides quick access to materials and parts. The event was attended by the Mayor of Sola, Mr. Ole Ueland, Sikorsky's commercial customers, off-shore oil union members, as well as Sikorsky's commercial leadership. Since beginning to serve Scandinavian operators in September 2016, the FSL has averaged a response time of less than one hour for requests for parts. More than 1,300 various part numbers for S-92 helicopters are stocked in Norway. "The Forward Stocking Location in Stavanger is an important development in parts support to further increase our aircraft availability," said Bristow Norwy Area Manager, Heidi Wulff Heimark. "We have already benefited considerably in reducing down time. Having parts so close to where we operate improves our ability to react more effectively to unexpected and disruptive repairs that require parts, improving both our safety and operations."



"The Sikorsky stocking locations in Aberdeen and Stavanger have been great assets in helping us reduce Aircraft on Ground downtime through placing critical parts within and close to our large operating regions," said Dave Balevic, senior vice president of engineering and operations at CHC Helicopter. "Because we no longer have to wait for parts to cross the Atlantic, we now potentially reduce AOG event downtime by as much 50-60 percent just by having the right part in the right place." The Stavanger FSL, co-located with a Flight Safety International full-motion S-92 helicopter simulator, and a Sikorsky authorized Customer Support Center, recently expanded from a 3,200-square-foot warehouse to more than 5,000 square feet.

The Stavanger site is one of four Sikorsky FSLs positioned to provide close support for commercial customers. The other sites are in Brisbane, Australia; Aberdeen, Scotland; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Additionally, Sikorsky has authorized 20 Customer Support Centers worldwide and is continuing to expand its service capabilities to where customers operate. Customer Support Centers enable quick access to Sikorsky's logistics and spare parts inventory for operators, and provide advanced service capabilities. Sikorsky's commercial customers also are supported 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week by forward deployed service representatives and Sikorsky's Customer Care Center in Trumbull, Connecticut. For additional information about Sikorsky's civil products, visit: Sikorsky Commercial Systems & Services 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. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sikorsky-celebrates-one-year-anniversary-of-forward-stocking-location-in-stavanger-300521069.html SOURCE Lockheed Martin

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] /ON HOLD ON HOLD ON HOLD -- ChineseInvestors.com, Inc./

SAN GABRIEL, California, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- /ON HOLD ON HOLD ON HOLD -- ChineseInvestors.com, Inc., PIV880425 Please place the following release: "ChineseInvestors.com, nc.'s Wholly-owned Foreign Enterprise, CBD Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Completes the Record Filing Process With the China FDA, Expects to Launch its Hemp-infused Skin Care Line in Q4" ON HOLD.



SOURCE ChineseInvestors.com, Inc.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]


[September 18, 2017] "Strong Evidence" - Achieve3000 Recognized for Its "Largest Effect" on Student Success

LAKEWOOD, N.J., Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The influential organization Center for Research and Reform in Education (CRRE) at Johns Hopkins University School of Education has recognized Achieve3000 for providing strong evidence of efficacy for middle and high school students and promising evidence of efficacy for elementary school students on its Evidence for ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act) website. Schools that qualify for ESSA funding are required to select and implement only those programs with strong, moderate, or promising evidence of effectiveness.

In this research assessment, Achieve3000 was shown to have the largest effect size at the middle and high school levels. Such impact was only attained by one other company. We are incredibly proud to earn the highest rating possible, explained Chief Executive Officer Saki Dodelson. Only programs that meet the highest degree of efficacy standards will qualify for ESSA funding, and because of its proven success, Achieve3000 is at the top of that list. Achieve3000 continues to offer the only literacy platform in English and Spanish that provides differentiated instruction with embedded assessments to automatically deliver grade-appropriate content at students individual reading levels. It features content modules that are customized for state, district, or country curricula and assessments, as well as several implementation models, such as Tie II and III intervention and English language learner programs.



Supported with industry-leading professional development that ensures successful implementation, the Achieve3000 platform is powered by built-in blended learning, actionable data, and proven efficacy, providing equity of access to core instruction while accelerating student learning, improving performance on high-stakes assessments, and preparing all students for college and career success. Evidence for ESSA sets the standard for the most up-to-date and reliable information on education programs that meet ESSA evidence requirements, which were passed with bipartisan support in Congress.

Dodelson continued, Our mission is to give all educators the ability to use one platform to reach every kid, of every ability, using our patented method of reaching all students at their precise Lexile level. Thousands of schools use Achieve3000 to accelerate reading gains and prepare kids for college and career. Now, evidence for ESSA makes it clear: Achieve3000 provides the greatest effect. About Achieve3000

Achieve3000 is the leader in online differentiated literacy instruction, serving over two million students worldwide. For more than 16 years, Achieve3000 has been reaching students at their individual reading levels to deliver significant learning gains, often double to triple the expected gains in a single school year. Based on decades of scientific research, Achieve3000s solutions  Smarty Ants (grades PreK-2), KidBiz3000 (grades 2-5), TeenBiz3000 (grades 6-8), Empower3000 (grades 9-12), Spark3000 (adult learners), and eScience3000 (grades 6-8)  support core curriculum, Response to Intervention, English language learner, and special education instructional models, as well as 21st-century education initiatives. From learning how to read to preparing for the workforce, Achieve3000 empowers all learners to develop the college and career literacy skills needed for academic, professional, and personal success. Achieve3000 is based in Lakewood, New Jersey. Learn more at http://www.achieve3000.com or call 888-968-6822. Contact:

Josef Blumenfeld

EdTech180

[email protected]

508-333-0938

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Trick-or-Treat for a New Kind of Thrill

MISSION, Kan., Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (Family Features) For most kids, Halloween is all about costumes and candy, but it can also be a chance to demonstrate how helping others brings its own set of rewards. Photo Courtesy of UNICEF



A photo accompanying this announcement is available at //www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f25770f0-22b5-45c9-a1ff-d01449c90e07 This October, children, families and schools across the country will join in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, a month-long celebration of the power and impact of kids helping kids. Throughout the month, kids, parents and teachers can add purpose to their Halloween activities by collecting donations in support of vulnerable children. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF encourages children to be "scary good" this Halloween and help their peers around the world. Equipped with iconic orange collection boxes, kids can raise funds that add up to lifesaving change: $8 can buy a kit to give one family clean water to drink; $15 can buy a box of five mosquito nets to protect kds from deadly malaria; and $55 can buy one box of therapeutic food treatment to save a child from severe acute malnutrition.



Sharing the caring

In addition, a series of partners and supporters are also making it easy to help. This year, HSNi Cares, as a national partner, will continue to raise funds and awareness to support UNICEF through all of its brands: Ballard Designs, Frontgate, Garnet Hill, Grandin Road, HSN and Improvements. Throughout September, customers will be able to make a donation to the children's humanitarian organization online or over the phone at all brands.

Key Club International will participate by raising funds for The Eliminate Project, which seeks to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus, a deadly disease that claims the lives of thousands of babies and mothers each year. Key Club International, a student-led service leadership program of Kiwanis International, is the oldest and largest service program for high school students. For more information, visit TheEliminateProject.org or KeyClub.org. American Airlines will support the campaign through UNICEFs Change for Good program, which converts customers donations of foreign and domestic currency into lifesaving services for children. From Oct.16-31, American Airlines flight attendant volunteers will make Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF-themed announcements and collect donations from customers on select international flights. Scholastic, the global childrens publishing, education and media company, will team up with Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its best-selling childrens book series Goosebumps. Popular character Slappy and his monstrous friends will be featured on the collection boxes as well as trickortreatforunicef.org. Make it social

Families are invited to share their Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF story on social media with the hashtag #ScaryGood. Parents and teachers who participated when they were children are also invited to share their experience with the hashtag #TBTOT4UNICEF. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF  the original kids helping kids campaign  has raised nearly $177 million since 1950 to help UNICEF provide children around the world with lifesaving nutrition, water, vaccines and more. For more information, visit trickortreatforunicef.org. Michael French

[email protected]

1-888-824-3337

editors.familyfeatures.com About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

Established in 1974, Family Features is a leading provider of free food and lifestyle content for print and online publications. Our articles, photos, videos and web content solutions save you time, money and help create advertising opportunities. Registration is fast and free  with absolutely no obligation. Visit editors.familyfeatures.com for more information.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Solving Patient Engagement Problems is Easier with Analytics Solutions, Says Quantzig

Quantzig, a global analytics solutions provider, has announced the completion of their latest patient engagement analytics study on the healthcare industry. The client, a leading healthcare service provider, wanted to assess the real-time analytics information about the patients and their satisfaction levels. The client was aiming at accurately estimating patient costs and gaining better insights on patient engagement. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918005349/en/ Patient Engagement Analytics Helps Healthcare Industry Client to Achieve Shared Savings. (Graphic: Business Wire) According to the patient engagement experts at Quantzig, "Delivering patient satisfaction while maximizing ROI is a difficult task to accomplish. As a result, healthcare providers are using patient engagement analtics to understand patient engagement and improve profitability."



The healthcare market landscape is highly uncertain and influenced by regulations, government policies, and legislations. It is a challenge to provide maximum customer satisfaction while targeting high returns on investment at the same time. Managing the increasing number of patients has become an indispensable task for a healthcare provider. Consequently, the service providers have started focusing on patient engagement analytics to meet the patient needs and stay ahead in the competitive market. The solution offered by Quantzig helped the client to accurately estimate the patient engagement costs and reduce per capita costs. The client was able to concentrate on improving lives, outcomes, and quality of their service. Furthermore, the client was able to deliver better patient treatments by gaining better insights into patient engagement issues.

Request a free demo to see how Quantzig's solutions can help you. This patient engagement solution provided benefits that helped the client to: Precisely estimate costs involved

Classify patients and identify patient needs

To read more, request a free proposal This patient engagement solution offered predictive insights on: Using healthcare records to predict future health issues

Assess risks associated with the non-compliance of treatment plans

To read more, request a free proposal View the patient engagement study here: https://www.quantzig.com/content/healthcare-industry-patient-engagement About Quantzig Quantzig is a global analytics and advisory firm with offices in the US, UK, Canada, China, and India. For more than 12 years, we have assisted our clients across the globe with end-to-end data modeling capabilities to leverage analytics for prudent decision making. Today, our firm consists of 120+ clients, including 45 Fortune 500 companies. For more information on all of Quantzig's services and the solutions they have provided to Fortune 500 clients across all industries, please contact us. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918005349/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] Hitachi Data Systems Federal Appoints New Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Operations

Hitachi Data Systems Federal Inc., (HDS Federal) a data solutions provider to the federal government and a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi (News - Alert) Data Systems (HDS), today announced the appointment of Mark A. Serway to chief financial officer and vice President of operations. Serway brings over 25 years' experience to HDS Federal, including an extensive background in both the government and commercial sectors leading corporate finance, operations management, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic partner relations. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918005924/en/ Mark Serway, chief financial officer and vice president of operations, Hitachi Data Systems (News - Alert) Federal (Photo: Business Wire) Mark will oversee financial and business operations for HDS Federal including corporate controllership, treasury, tax, IT, and customer support services. He will also serve on the company's executive team and report to HDS Federal's President and Chief Executive Officer, David Turner. "Mark is a seasoned financial executive with a proven track record in leading technology enterprises through transformational change, while maximizing profits and positioning organizations for sustainable growth," said Turner. "I am confident we are positioned to execute on our cmpany objectives with Mark's financial and operational leadership."



Prior to joining HDS Federal, Serway served as chief financial officer for Govplace, Inc., a government technology solutions provider. From 2008 to 2013, Mark served as senior vice president and chief financial officer at Akima. Earlier in Mark's career, he held progressively senior positions with Employment Enterprises, Paradigm Solutions, Lockheed Martin IT, Getronics Government Solutions, Babcock & Wilcox and Boeing (News - Alert) Computer Services. Serway earned his M.B.A. in Finance from Averett University and B.B.A. in Management Information Systems from James Madison University.

About Hitachi Data Systems Federal, Inc. Hitachi Data Systems Federal, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Data Systems, implements data and analytics solutions that meet the federal government's needs today and tomorrow. Hitachi Data Systems Federal is able to offer the best information and operation technology from across the Hitachi family to provide exceptional value to government agencies. Hitachi Data Systems Federal Corporation is headquartered in Reston, Virginia. For more information, please visit: www.hdsfed.com. Follow HDS Federal on Twitter (News - Alert) @HDSFederal. About Hitachi Data Systems Hitachi Data Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., offers an integrated portfolio of services and solutions that enable digital transformation through enhanced data management, governance, mobility and analytics. We help global organizations open new revenue streams, increase efficiencies, improve customer experience and ensure rapid time to market in the digital age. Only Hitachi Data Systems powers the digital enterprise by integrating the best information technology and operational technology from across the Hitachi family of companies. We combine this experience with Hitachi expertise in the internet of things to deliver the exceptional insights business and society need to transform and thrive. Visit us at HDS.com. About Hitachi, Ltd. Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society's challenges. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal 2015 (ended March 31, 2016) totaled 10,034.3 billion yen ($88.8 billion). The Hitachi Group is a global leader in the Social Innovation Business, and it has approximately 335,000 employees worldwide. Through collaborative creation, Hitachi is providing solutions to customers in a broad range of sectors, including power & infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at http://www.hitachi.com. HITACHI is a trademark or registered trademark of Hitachi, Ltd. All other trademarks, service marks, and company names are properties of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918005924/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] BitVault, World's First Blockchain Phone to Start Shipping in November

LIMERICK, Ireland, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Embedded Downloads announced earlier today that the BitVault, the world's first crypto communicator and blockchain smart phone will start shipping in November 2017. The BitVault was introduced to the fintech community earlier this year with prototypes showcased at London Fintech week, 7 -14 June 2017 . [ https://www.fintechweek.com/ ]. According to the company, the BitVault comes with a range of unique features. Dynamic Key Creation: - With the use of biometric identification combined with NFC technology, the user creates private and public keys every time the device is used. These keys are never stored anywhere and can only be created by the specific user. These keys are used for encryption of transactions, communication and other applications on the device. Secure Calling: - The device uses advanced cryptography to enable public key to public key calling. Crypto currency transactions are used to create multi-layer encryptions. Secure Messaging: - The same cryptographic methods are used for secure messaging. BitVault to BitVault messaging is multi-layered encrypted. Secure Document Transfer: - When a user sends a document created on a laptop or a PC via the BitVault as an attachment, these documents are transferred over a private blockchain separate from the BitVault communication environment. Both the sender and receiver will need to download an application on their respective computers to send or receive documents. Keys to open these documents will be securely transmitted from BitVault to BitVault. In this way, outside documents can never enter the BitVault communication environment keeping it safe from malware.



Secure Browsing: - By using blockchain technology the BitVault dynamically verifies websites through a set of confirmation steps. Browsing with the BitVault is severely restricted and controlled with stringent rules to ensure the integrity of the environment. Cryptocurrency wallets: - The BitVault uses cryptocurrency in its applications and also comes with native cryptocurrency wallets. The BitVault will ship with the following wallets installed: - Bitcoin, Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, EOT.

BitVault Application Store: - BitVault comes with its own dedicated application store and is open to outside developers. The BitVault uses a secured and modified version Android but standard Android applications cannot be uploaded onto the BitVault and will not work. BitVault developers will be licensed and will receive a developer toolkit to enable BitVault application development. More details on other features and specifications are available on the website: https://swissbankinyourpocket.com/bitvault/ BitVault is owned and developed by Embedded Downloads, with development offices in Limerick, Ireland and New Delhi, India. Embedded Downloads specializes in secure hardware and software relating to the "Internet of Things".

[ www.embeddeddownloads.com] The company has commissioned VVDN Technologies [ www.vvdntech.com ] as development and manufacturing partner of the BitVault More about VVDN - Established in the year 2007, VVDN is headquartered in Gurgaon, India

- Design Centers located in Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, Pune - Offices across the globe - Manufacturing Set up in Gurgaon - ISO-9001:2008 Certified company - Engaged in developing innovative products such as servers, GPS tracker, IOT Community boards etc. - Recognized as the best embedded company of the year by SiliconIndia

- In 2017 VVDN was listed as one of the world's top 12 cloud engineering service providers. Bitvault marketing is focussed primarily on enterprise solutions for large organisations that have the need for secure communication and data management environments. These would include governments and public organisations, financial institutions, large corporations etc. Shipping to the public commences in November 2017 and the BitVault can now be pre-ordered on the company website: - https://swissbankinyourpocket.com/bitvault/. BitVault is shipped worldwide with door to door secure courier. BitVault is a registered trademark of Embedded Downloads and all rights are hereby reserved. Media contact:

Peter Marais

[email protected]

+4407502545612 View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bitvault-worlds-first-blockchain-phone-to-start-shipping-in-november-300521459.html SOURCE Embedded Downloads

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
According to latest development in the Armaan Sehgal case, the Supreme Court directed the Allahabad HC nullify the petition submitted by the school management against Armaan's parents.

By Neha Vashishth: Some incidents we come across in life make us feel that the society, and the law and order system in place, do not value human life enough.

Until a few horrific cases made national headlines, school was the only place where a parent could leave their children without worrying about their safety.

Not anymore, though.

Schools, from all that's going on now, seem to have turned havens for sexual predators, violent teaching methods and carelessness.

advertisement

Armaan Sehgal, a 9-year-old student of GD Goenka school, Indirapuram lost his life within the school premises on August 1, 2017. The Class 4 student fell to his death under mysterious circumstances.

Armaan's father filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a CBI probe into his son's death accusing the school management of tampering CCTV footages from the day Armaan died.

WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?

Armaan, on August 1, 2017 fell to his death from the second floor of the school building in Ghaziabad. Armaan's mother is accusing the school administration of destroying the CCTV footage, one of the primary evidence required to crack the case.

Gulshan Sehgal, Armaan's father, submitted a plea in the Supreme Court seeking justice.

The plea said that the school's management have moved the Allahabad HC seeking rejection of the FIR. It also said that Allahabad HC granted the management interim protection from arrest and directed that no coercive action should be taken against them.

Armaan's parents, friends, and family protesting against GD Goenka School, Indirapuram

THE PARENTS' PLEA

Armaan's mother, Swati Sehgal, has been fighting to expose the truth behind her son's death through social media and has been actively fighting against the "poor and careless" school administration.

The parents' plea asked for a CBI or an SIT (Special Investigation Team) probe into the matter which was required for the investigation of the case saying the management tried tampering with the evidence.

The incident happened just a few days before 7-year-old Pradyuman Thakur was brutally murdered inside the premises of Gurugram's Ryan International School.

SUPREME COURT'S DIRECTIVE

The parents of Armaan Sehgal, Swati and Gulshan Sehgal, approached the Supreme Court of India to seek CBI probe into the matter and expected the court to reject the written petition submitted by the school management in the Allahabad High Court.

That's exactly what happened.

The Supreme Court decided to direct the Allahabad High Court to dispose the petition filed by the school management in October. The Supreme Court also said that Gulshan Sehgal, Armaan's father, should raise all issues in front of the Allahabad HC.

The Supreme Court also directed the Allahabad HC to decide about the involvement of CBI probe in the case as well.

advertisement

Also watch:

--- ENDS ---
[September 18, 2017] Envision Healthcare Announces Organizational Changes to Align Senior Leadership Structure with Physician-Centric Strategy

Envision Healthcare Corporation ("Envision" or the "Company") (NYSE: EVHC) today announced organizational changes, including a realignment of the senior leadership structure under Christopher A. Holden, Envision's President and Chief Executive Officer, to reflect the Company's focus on its physician-centric strategic plan. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its scale, physician-centric strategy and operational excellence, Envision has created the new role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. The Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer will report directly to Mr. Holden, with responsibility for Envision's Physician Services and Ambulatory Surgery service lines. In addition, Envision announced the implementation of succession plans for its current Chief Financial Officer, Claire Gulmi, and President of Physician Services, Robert Coward. As a result of these changes: Karey Witty, a veteran healthcare executive with more than 25 years of experience in various executive, financial, and operational leadership positions, has been appointed to the new role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective October 2, 2017.

Kevin Eastridge, currently Chief Accounting Officer, will succeed Ms. Gulmi as Chief Financial Officer, also effective October 2, 2017. Thereafter, Ms. Gulmi will be employed as an advisor to the Company for one year to assist with the transition of her responsibilities to Mr. Eastridge. Kenneth Zongor, currently Senior Vice President - Financial Reporting, will succeed Mr. Eastridge as Chief Accounting Officer, effective October 2, 2017.

Brian Jackson, currently Chief Operating Officer for the Physician Services Group, will succeed Mr. Coward as President of Physician Services, effective October 2, 2017. Mr. Coward's decision to resign is related to his desire to pursue new opportunities and not the result of a disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to the Company's operation, policies or practices. Mr. Coward has agreed to be available for a period of 60 days to assist with transition efforts. "We are excited about the progress we've made since closing the transformational combination of Envision and AMSURG, a merger that has advanced our physician-centric strategy," said Christopher A. Holden, President and CEO of Envision. "Today's announcement reflects a comprehensive evaluation of options to select the most effective management structure for our business, as well as the results of a robust search process. I am grateful for the contributions made by our leaders and team members at every level of our organization. These leadership appointments will advance the strategic evolution of the Company and ensure timely continuity of leadership. I am pleased that, as we implement this new organizational structure, we are able to draw on a deep bench of talented leaders and attract the experiences and perspectives of seasoned healthcare executives. "On behalf of the entire Envision team, I would like to thank Claire for her tireless efforts and strong financial leadership through a period of significant growth and transformation from an operator of ambulatory surgery services to a leading diversified healthcare services organization. We wish Claire the best in her well-earned retirement, and are thankful for her continued guidance during the transition period. I would also like to thank Bob for his work to position Physician Services for continued growth and success." Karey Witty Mr. Witty, 53, brings more than 25 years of healthcare expertise and leadership, and most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Corizon (News - Alert) Health, Inc., the leading provider of correctional healthcare services in the United States. At Corizon, Mr. Witty engineered an organizational turnaround that focused on achieving operational excellence. Prior to joining Corizon, Mr. Witty served as CFO for Nashvill-based naviHealth, Inc., which provides services to approximately two million patients across the post-acute continuum. Mr. Witty also served as CFO of HealthSpring from 2009 until its acquisition by CIGNA in 2012, a time of significant change in its managed care offerings. He was with Centene Corporation for eight years, including six years as CFO and one year as Chief Executive Officer of its Health Plan Business unit.



Mr. Holden commented, "We look forward to leveraging Karey's extensive leadership and management experience developed during his time as CEO of Corizon and, previously, as CFO of naviHealth. We have no doubt we will benefit immediately from his fresh perspective and extensive knowledge of payor and provider dynamics. I look forward to working with Karey and the rest of our team to enhance operational excellence, execute our unique strategy and drive value for shareholders." Kevin Eastridge

Mr. Eastridge, 52, currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer for Envision. Prior to the merger creating today's Envision, Mr. Eastridge served as Senior Vice President of Finance at AMSURG Corp. from July 2008 through November 2016 and as Chief Accounting Officer from July 2004 through November 2016. Mr. Eastridge served in various capacities with AMSURG from March 1997 through July 2004, including Vice President of Finance and Controller. During his time with the Company, Mr. Eastridge has been a key executive in its strategic transformation into a diversified healthcare services organization, including several transactions that include the merger creating today's Envision. Mr. Holden commented, "Kevin is a proven leader who has been instrumental in helping develop and implement our vision of the new Envision, including important capital structure allocation to create value for our shareholders. He has been a trusted and highly effective leader throughout his 20-year tenure with the Company. He is the ideal person to step into the CFO role, as his deep experience and intimate knowledge of our company will be critical as we continue to execute on the strategic initiatives underway to solidify our position as the trusted partner for payors, providers, health systems, and their communities." Brian Jackson Mr. Jackson, 54, currently serves as Chief Operating Officer for Physician Services, and served as Chief Operating Officer for AMSURG's Sheridan division prior to the merger with Envision. Prior to joining Sheridan in 2014, Mr. Jackson served as Division Vice President at DaVita Healthcare Partners, Inc. and as Senior Vice President of National Markets for Cardinal Health, Inc. Mr. Jackson also had a distinguished career as a US Army attack helicopter pilot in Germany and Saudi Arabia. Mr. Holden commented, "Brian's balance of development and operations experience makes him ideally suited for this role as President of Physician Services. Drawing on his significant experience in developing and managing teams to drive margins and growth at DaVita and Cardinal Health, Brian has contributed to improved operational execution of the Company's largest business line during the past three years as COO of Physician Services. As COO, Brian worked closely with the executive leadership team to help drive our growth strategy and has shown a readiness and ability to successfully lead key initiatives at Envision. His expertise and insight into our business will enable us to continue our momentum in Physician Services and capitalize on the many opportunities that lie ahead." About Envision Healthcare Corporation Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading provider of physician-led services and post-acute care, and ambulatory surgery services. At June 30, 2017, we delivered physician services, primarily in the areas of emergency department and hospitalist services, anesthesiology services, radiology/tele-radiology services, and children's services to more than 1,800 clinical departments in healthcare facilities in 47 states and the District of Columbia. Post-acute care is delivered through an array of clinical professionals and integrated technologies which, when combined, contribute to efficient and effective population health management strategies. As a market leader in ambulatory surgical care, the Company owns and operates 263 surgery centers and one surgical hospital in 35 states and the District of Columbia, with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the Company offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale, creating value for health systems, payors, providers and patients. For additional information, visit www.evhc.net. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements and information in this communication may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Federal Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the Company's financial and operating objectives, plans and strategies, industry trends, and all statements (other than statements of historical fact) that address activities, events or developments that the Company intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future. These statements are often characterized by terminology such as "believe," "hope," "may," "anticipate," "should," "intend," "plan," "will," "expect," "estimate," "project," "positioned," "strategy" and similar expressions, and are based on assumptions and assessments made by the Company's management in light of their experience and their perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Any forward-looking statements in this communication are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no duty to update or revise any such statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Whether actual results will conform to expectations and predictions is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including: (i) risks and uncertainties discussed in the reports and other documents that the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission; (ii) general economic, market, or business conditions; (iii) the impact of legislative or regulatory changes, such as changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010; (iv) changes in governmental reimbursement programs; (v) decreases in revenue and profit margin under fee-for-service contracts due to changes in volume, payor mix and reimbursement rates; (vi) the loss of existing contracts; (vii) risks associated with the ability to successfully integrate the Company's operations and employees following the completion of its merger with AMSURG; (viii) the ability to realize anticipated benefits and synergies of the business combination; (ix) the potential impact of the consummation of the transaction on the Company's relationships, including with employees, customers and competitors; and (x) other circumstances beyond the Company's control. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918006380/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 18, 2017] INVESTOR ALERT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Reminds Investors of an Investigation Involving Possible Securities Fraud Violations by the Board of Directors of FedEx Corporation

Levi & Korsinsky announces it has commenced an investigation of FedEx Corporation ("FedEx" or the "Company") (NYSE:FDX) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws. On June 28, 2017, FedEx announced that the worldwide operations of the Company's TNT Express unit were significantly affected by a cyberattack known as Petya. Then on July 17, 2017, FedEx filed its 10-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In a press release coinciding with the filing, FedEx stated that, due to Petya, "customers are still experiencing widespread service and invoicing delays, and manual processes are being used to facilitate We cannot estimate when TNT services will be fully restored." In addition, FedEx noted that the "financial impact" of the attack will liely be material, as the Company does not have cyber or other insurance to cover situations of this nature. To obtain additional information, go to:



http://www.zlkdocs.com/FDX-Info-Request-Form-2096 or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 363-7500, toll-free: (877) 363-5972.

Levi & Korsinsky is a national firm with offices in New York, California, Connecticut and Washington D.C. The firm's attorneys have extensive expertise in prosecuting securities litigation involving financial fraud, representing investors throughout the nation in securities and shareholder lawsuits. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170918006431/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
By PTI: compromise on quality

Hyderabad, Sep 18 (PTI) The free distribution of over one crore sarees for women below the poverty line for the upcoming traditional Bathukamma festival began today across Telangana.

The Telangana government had said about 1.04 crore women will be given saris free of cost. The scheme costs Rs 222 crore.

However, the saree distribution found itself in a row with the sarees allegedly being burnt over poor quality.

advertisement

Telangana IT Minister K T Rama Rao told reporters here that the government targeted to distribute about 1.04 crore sarees at over 8,000 centres in the state.

About 25 lakh sarees were distributed on the first day today, he said.

Hitting out at opposition parties, he alleged that Congress leaders were behind the incident of burning the distributed sarees at places like Chalgal in Jagitial district.

It is an utterly low level politics to burn the sarees, he said.

"On the occasion of Bathukamma festival, all the poor women above the age of 18 will get sarees as a gift irrespective of caste, community or religion," Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao had earlier said.

District Collectors of 31 districts in the state are overseeing the sarees distribution programme, Commissioner Textiles Shailaja Rama Iyer, told reporters here today.

She said power-loom weavers of Sircilla in the state have woven over 50 lakh sarees measuring up to 3.75 crore metres while remaining sarees have been procured from Surat after following open competitive tender process.

"There are over 500 designs of sarees which are being distributed. Polyester sarees distribution has been taken up? we got feedback that cotton sarees should also be distributed and we are open to the feedback," she said.

Reacting to queries that some women complained and protested in few places over alleged poor quality of sarees, Iyer and Principal Secretary of the Industries Jayesh Ranjan said there is no compromise with regard to quality of sarees.

"We stand by the quality of the sarees. As per specifications the sarees have been produced and there is no problem at all," they claimed.

Iyer maintained that there is no quality issue with regard to sarees being distributed. "Sarees are inspected and also tested and there is no such quality issue. If there is any specific problem on one or two sarees we have permitted replacement. If there is any specific issue on quality we will take up the matter."

"Factories were also inspected. There are no quality issues in the saris and I want to indicate that very clearly. We stand firm by the quality of the saris that we have produced," Iyer said.

advertisement

"If there is any specific quality issue with regard to specifications it can brought our notice," added Iyer.

She said sari specifications of Surat are slightly different when compared to Sircilla.

On allegations that saris priced at Rs 50 were distributed, both Ranjan and Iyer dismissed the allegations and said each Sircilla sari is priced at Rs 224 while the Surat sari costs Rs 200. PTI VVK SJR NRB ARK

--- ENDS ---
"Kansas City police are investigating a fatal shooting at the Boost Mobile store located at 6823 Longview Road in south Kansas City.





"The shooting happened just east of Blue Ridge Boulevard.





"People who work at neighboring businesses say they've been told this fatal shooting started as a robbery."



"The suspect is described as a black man, about 5 feet 10 inches tall with a beard and mustache. He wore a black hoodie, gray shorts and carried a black handgun during the event."









And so the work week resumes Kansas City's horrific quotient of killing as locals grow increasingly desperate.Deets:Links:This latest killing raises the increase in local homicides to near 30% with only 86 at this time last year.Developing . . .
Petitions also demanded that the co-accused, who have been acquitted, should be put on trial again and hanged for their crime along with Musharraf.

By Hamza Ameer: The Pakistan People Party (PPP) has challenged an anti-terrorism court's verdict in slain former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's murder case.

The counsel of PPP, filed three separate petitions with the high court against the former military leader General (Retd) Pervez Musharraf , demanding the court to hang Musharraf as he is the main culprit.

The counsel said Musharraf was threatening Benazir, as she mentioned in her email that if any harm happens to her upon her arrival in Pakistan, Musharraf would be responsible for it.

advertisement

The petitions also demanded that the co-accused, who have been acquitted, should be put on trial again and hanged for their crime along with Musharraf.

Last month, a special anti-terrorism court had sentenced two senior police officers to 17 years in prison in the Benazir Bhutto murder case.

--- ENDS ---
A 39-year-old Mississippi woman is charged with pepper-spraying several Overland Park police officers when they tried to arrest her for shoplifting at Oak Park Mall. Latrina K. Newsome is scheduled to appear Monday afternoon in Johnson County District Court where she is charged with three felony counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and one count of misdemeanor theft.
About 100 people marched through downtown St. Louis this morning in what's becoming a familiar site after a judge found ex-St. Louis police officer Jason Stockley not guilty in the shooting death of Anthony Lamar Smith on Friday. What was different about this protest was its sound - or rather lack of sound.
While this photo is from "The Mummy" featuring Boris Karloff. Randy Potter's dead body sat in airport parking for more than 8 months Now, thanks to the testimony of KICK-ASS KANSAS CITY 1ST RESPONDER INSIDERS . . . We're getting some deets from the scene.Word on background:"I could see why nobody found him. When we say it, the body was really shriveled up and discolored. Matched the car upholstery somewhat . . . Really, the closest way to describe it was like a mummy. The Medical Examiner will have more info but I would definitely say the guy looked mummified. One of the worse cases I've seen before but there were people at the scene who said they'd seen worse . . ."There are reports that the smell is what guided authorities to the car in this shocking case that has family blaming police and airport officials.Developing . . .
Jackson County names new Deputy Director of Corrections

word of a new hope for the Kansas City prison industrial complex this afternoon.Meet the new boss:KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Jackson County is proud to announce the newest Associate to its Executive Team. Diana Turner will serve as Deputy Director of the Jackson County Department of Corrections.Turner brings with her more than 20 years of knowledge and expertise in the corrections field, overseeing juveniles and adults through positions at the federal, state and municipal levels.She most recently served as Director of Residential Services for the Jackson County Family Court. During her tenure, the two juvenile detention facilities for which she was responsible achieved reaccreditation. Both are positioned to successfully pass an American Correctional Association (ACA) audit in 2018.Diana is a strong addition to our team and I am excited to have her on board, said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. Her wide-range of experience shows she has the passion, integrity and determination to be an effective leader and get results. The Corrections team and I look forward to working with her.Turner takes pride in her ability to effectively manage staff working in a high-stress environment, develop programs and procedures for optimal efficiency and foster a culture of accountability.This is a great opportunity for me to combine my skills with those of Corrections Director Joe Piccinini, Turner said. Together, we will work to ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff and the public. It will always be our top priority.A native of Chanute, Kansas, Turner has a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. In 2016, she completed the certified court manager program through the National Center for State Courts.Turner will be introduced at the Jackson County Legislative meeting at 2:30 p.m. today on the second floor of the downtown Jackson County Courthouse.###########
CHECK OUT TAX FIGHTERS CALLING OUT CITY MANAGER TROY SCHULTE AND MAYOR SLY OVER DOWNTOWN CONVENTION HOTEL MISDEEDS!!!

NOTE TO CITY COUNCIL FROM CFRG:

Tonight we contemplate the future of development in Kansas City with annote to City Council.To wit . . .Remember thatNow, here's the EPIC letter to our elected leaders. Take a look:City Council members,We hope you were all able to relax during the week off. Did you take time to consider what our City Hall looks like to the voters of KCMO? We are all embarrassed by the airport bid shenanigans. You add to that the fact the Hotel Developers are now positioning themselves for another run at City Hall. The Developers have lied again and again to all of us. The City Manager and the Mayor have backed up the Developers and protected their position. Times up!Hotel: Its time for our City Council to march into the City Managers office as a unified group and demand he answer for his inappropriate actions! There are ethics violations on his part and the mayors part when they stated contracts on the hotel were in place and the financing was there. In June the Developers also testified they had a firm price. Has anyone seen that firm price? The Financing? The Contracts?Councilpersons Taylor, Lucas, Shields and Barnes were all at the June 8th committee meeting when the Developers stated they had everything they needed and they would not need to come back to City Hall for anything additional. Developers knew at that time they had terminated their relationship with Hyatt Hotels and there was no financing in place. Hyatt told CFRG later they never had a contract with KC Hotel Developers and the money for the hotel belonged to Hyatt financiers. Developers lied to you, to the court and two the voters.Who among you is the leader who can get this meeting started? Who will emerge as the next strong leader in KCMO? We havent had one for years! This is an opportunity for a new leader to step up, gather the Council and confront the City manager and Mayor. The Mayor is pretty much done, particularly if the recall petition gets started this week. The City manager needs to resign or at least remove himself from any further participation in the hotel dealings or the airport for that matter. He has shown he is not telling you the truth.You should all be livid having been lied to and continuously misled by the Mayor and the City Manager. In December 2016, Troy Schulte stood in front of all of you. He told you he had seen the hotel's term financing sheet and the financing for the downtown convention hotel and everything else was in order. Then on several occasions since both he and the mayor stated there were contracts in place and financing was adequate. We now know during this time they knew the developers were $30 -$40 MILLION dollars short. You bought all of this in good faith BUT THAT WAS THEN AND THIS IS NOW!On June 8, 2017, again the Developer and his lawyer testified before your council committee stating the financing and contracts were in place, they even had a guaranteed firm price and this is the last time they would need to come before the council. The next day they stated they would be issuing $100 Million in bonds in the next few weeks. The Developer and his attorney also lied to the judge in an earlier lawsuit about the same issues.On June 22, the developer and his lawyer again testified everything was a go. The mayor confirmed this. What they didnt tell you was Hyatt was out of the deal as of June 19th (3 days earlier) and Hyatts financing partner left with them. LIES, LIES and more LIES all backed up by the City Manager and the Mayor. You placed the trust and responsibility for monitoring the hotel project in the hands of your City Manager. It was your job and you gave it to him. He has betrayed you! The City manager needs to resign or at least remove himself from any further participation in the hotel dealings or the airport for that matter.If you were running a business and an employee continually told you lies and falsehoods, would you continue to employ that individual? HELL NO!! NINE of you can fire the City Manager. Who among you will lead this effort. Do we have a future mayor on the City Council today??? I can tell you the voters are fed up.Citizens for Responsible Government - Kansas City#########
Aluminium Bahrain, a leading aluminium smelter, has announced that its Line 6 Expansion Projects pot shell fabrication is full swing at a Bahrain contractor.

Albas Chief Executive Officer Tim Murray paid an inspection visit to Ahmed Mansoor Al Aali (AMA Group), one of the major Bahraini contractors for the Line 6 Expansion Project, to celebrate the fabrication of 100 pot shells on September 7.

Murray was accompanied by Line 6 project director Shawqi Al Hashmi and a delegation of Line 6 owners team and managers from Bechtel, the main contractor for the project.

Speaking about this achievement, Murray said: We are very happy with AMA Groups swift progress in fabricating 100 pot shells ahead of schedule. This level of performance shows that AMA Group shares our commitment to accelerate the delivery of Line 6 Expansion Project.

AMA Group was awarded the contract to manufacture 427 pot shells (each weighing 44 metric tonnes) for Albas Line 6 Expansion Project, the first of which will be delivered to the Alba site by October 1.  TradeArabia News Service
Cadillac, as part of its Dare Greatly initiative, has launched a new brand campaign in the Middle East, shining a spotlight on entrepreneurial Arabs living in New York and the passions that drive them.



To kick off the campaign, Cadillac has released a thought-provoking video that is set in the heart of one of the worlds cultural centers and home city of the brand. The first in a series of inspirational content connected to the brands mission to Dare Greatly, the video celebrates the contribution that Arabs make to New York. At a time when the position of Arabs in the US is frequently a topic of discussion, the first video provides a brief insight into the lives of audacious Arabs who are blazing a trail in their respective fields.



Nadim Ghrayeb, regional marketing manager, Cadillac Middle East, said that the creative video is just the beginning of the Arabs of New York campaign: Cadillac is truly passionate about innovations that drive us forward, so we have connected with personalities that originate from the Middle East, who use their talents to do the same.



As a brand, New York is at our core and we want to showcase our home and our brand to the Arab world. We decided to do this by celebrating talented Arab individuals who have succeeded, despite social obstacles, in becoming ambassadors of the Arab world. They have reached great heights in their careers and demonstrate what it truly means to Dare Greatly, he added.



The video features three entrepreneurial Arabs. The first, Mohamed Fairouz, is a New York-based award-winning Emirati composer who has created over 40 compositions which have been widely performed across the US. Fairouz was honoured with a national citation for outstanding achievement in artistry and scholarship by the UAE embassy in Washington, D.C. in 2008.



Michel Abboud, a Lebanese-born architect and artist, heads up an international architecture firm based in New York. Abboud is renowned worldwide for his avant-garde portfolio with residential projects in locations ranging from New York to Lebanon to the UAE.



The final professional to cameo in the video, Hala Abdul Malek, a Lebanese-born New Yorker, is a design critic, curator, branding consultant, and Middle East expert. She is a skilled design Strategist and holds an MFA in Design Criticism from School of Visual Arts, New York.  TradeArabia News Service
The Arabian Business Community (ABC) Bahrain has reached a record 1 million business referrals to companies on its Bahrain Database so far this year, it was revealed today.

The portal has generated over 1,046,000 visits to companies registered on the interactive database and is currently being accessed by almost 1,000 users on a daily basis, said Al Hilal Group Managing Director Ronnie Middleton, the publishers of the site.

We are delighted to see ABC Bahrain continuing to grow rapidly, becoming the Kingdoms go to site for contacts and business information in Bahrain. The portal has already generated 34 per cent more enquires this year for businesses in Bahrain and we expect that this figure will increase by a further 25 per cent in referrals by the end of this year compared with 2016, added Middleton.

ABC Bahrain is part of Al Hilal Groups portfolio of interlinked and interactive marketing databases which cover all the countries in the GCC region. The Bahrain edition, launched three years ago, accounts for 33 per cent of traffic on all 14 editions of the business community.

The number of companies joining ABC as a premium partner has also risen rapidly, as businesses look to take advantage of the business opportunities of ABC.

Today our Premium Partners and Community Members include leading banks, telecoms companies, hotels, hospitals, car companies and other organisations offering services ranging from foreign exchange to fire and safety services, said Middleton. These community members are benefitting from ABCs proactive and ongoing marketing initiatives which help keep their organisations top of mind in their specific areas of business through a combination of database positioning and unparalleled daily marketing services utilizing print and digital media as well as social media platforms, he added.

For as little as BD6 per day companies can be a part of Bahrains leading digital marketing initiative, said Middleton. Each month we provide our customers with detailed business referral statistics supported by active social media and email marketing campaigns. Being a member of ABC places our customers in a leading position in their fields of business.

ABC Bahrain plans to add additional market oriented modules which will provide even more marketing opportunities to portal members at a marginal cost of promotion.

These additional promotional platforms will provide our clients with significantly enhanced and free advertising facilities as part of their membership. Today, ABC Bahrain represents the most exciting marketing initiative in the Kingdom providing economical and cost-effective adverting for any company doing business in the Bahrain market, concluded Middleton.  TradeArabia News Service
H.n.h. Hotels & Resorts, one of the largest independent players in the Italian hospitality industry, has signed an agreement to manage the DoubleTree by Hilton Trieste.



The hotel will be located in Piazza della Repubblica and housed in the historic former headquarters of the Ras Insurance Company, now owned by Allianz Italia.



H.n.h. Hotels & Resorts is leasing the building from Allianz Italia and has signed a franchising agreement with Hilton. It joins more than 25 Hilton properties trading or in development in Italy, and will be the first Hilton property in Trieste.



Renovation and conservation works have begun and opening is scheduled for early 2019.



A significant renovation, interior restoration and transformation project, it will be directed by design studio CaberlonCaroppi. With plans that reflect the character of Trieste - a haven for ships and a vibrant cultural city - the historic space will be redefined and include the Fountain of Lions made by the sculptor Gianni Marin, showcase rationalist architecture and will boast panoramic elevators and innovative furniture design.



Luca Boccato, CEO of H.n.h. Hotels & Resorts said: "This will be the second property which H.n.h. Hotels & Resorts will manage through a franchise agreement with Hilton, and is an important milestone in the growth of this partnership."



"From the very beginning, we were enthusiastic about the lease proposal and immediately we put great passion in this project. The shared passion for this building has been a key factor for Allianz Italia to giving it back to the city, and for CaberlonCaroppi to design the new rooms and the communal areas," Boccato said.



"Trieste, capital of the Friuli Venezia-Giulia region, is a flourishing hub for business and leisure travellers alike. It is also the most important sea port in Italy", said Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president of Development, EMEA at Hilton. "Hilton will be one of the only international hotel groups with a presence in the city. This signing is an important milestone in Hilton's expansion in Italy." - TradeArabia News Service
Avelacom Chooses Metamako to Offer FPGA-Based Connectivity Solution

Global connectivity provider Avelacom announced that it is now using Metamako, a specialist provider of FPGA-enabled, high-performance networking devices, to significantly accelerate its network processing power and keep latency to an absolute minimum. The solution meets the needs of HFT firms and all firms in capital markets for whom latency is critical, allowing them to benefit from the latest technology innovations in data processing.

Avelacom is now live with Metamakos C-Series network devices (using the MetaMux app, running an Intel Arria FPGA), providing its clients in Aurora Data Center in Illinois with substantially reduced latency and true real-time trading capabilities to access CME Group markets. One of the key features of Metamakos FPGA-based low-latency switching device is its ability to replicate market data with a market-leading latency of just 5 nanoseconds and to aggregate exchange-facing orders.

Metamako devices also offer a wealth of additional features such as tap aggregation, packet filtering and timestamping for regulatory compliance such as MiFID II, along with dynamic patching and media conversion. The combination of Avelacom and Metamako allows clients to deal with the increasing challenges of using higher volume, real-time data in a cost-efficient way, without the need to invest in additional hardware and extra rack space.

We are excited to be working with an innovative company like Metamako. Using their ultra-low latency devices, we can better respond to specific requirements of sophisticated financial firms and also extend accessibility of the latest technologies to a wider trading community, said Aleksey Larichev, Avelacoms Managing Director.

Kevin Covington, CEO of Metamako, said: Avelacom is a great choice and an excellent addition to our roster of financial telecommunications clients. They have an extensive reach and low latency expertise across emerging financial markets and beyond, as well as an impressive list of global clients. The combination of their ultra-fast connectivity with our unbeatable speeds will provide the trading community with exceptionally fast connectivity to key exchanges.

Avelacom delivers raw market data from exchanges over its ultra low-latency network, along with providing exchange colocation, with the closest proximity to all major exchanges and liquidity providers globally. Avelacom plans to deploy Metamako devices at several more trading venues, initially across the Middle East and APAC.

For more information on related topics, visit the following channels:
The CBI judge's security has been reviewed based on a report by the Crime Investigation Department (CID).

By Manjeet Sehgal: The security cover of the CBI judge, who convicted Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in the rape case and is currently hearing the arguments in the two murder cases against the Dera Sacha Sauda chief, has been increased.

Judge Jagdeep Singh's security cover was first increased after he held Gurmeet Ram Rahim guilty of rape and criminal intimidation of two of his disciples and sentenced the Dera chief to 20 years in jail last month.

advertisement

Now, with the court hearing the case of murder of former Dera Sacha Sauda manager Ranjit Singh almost on a daily basis, CBI judge Jagdeep Singh's security has been further increased.

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who is appearing in the court of judge Jagdeep Singh via video-conferencing, has been named as the main conspirator in the case.

As against 45 police personnel providing security to judge Jagdeep Singh, now 60 policemen will be part of the security cover. Deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Rajesh Phogat will be the security in-charge for judge Jadgeep Singh.

The CBI judge's security has been reviewed based on a report by the Crime Investigation Department (CID). Jagdeep Singh has been provided with the chief minister's bullet-proof car.

Jailed Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is an accused in the murders of former Dera manager Ranjit Singh and Sirsa-based journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati. Both the cases are being heard at the court of CBI judge Jadgeep Singh.

Ram Chander Chhatrapati was shot at in October 2002 after his newspaper, Poora Sach, published an anonymous letter narrating how women were being sexually exploited by Ram Rahim at the Dera headquarters.

Ranjit Singh was shot dead in July 2002, and as per the prosecution he was murdered for his suspected role in circulating the anonymous letter which accused the Dera chief of alleged sexual exploitation of his disciples.

DO WATCH: Gurmeet Ram Rahim may even be involved in organs racket: Dera follower Gurdas Toor

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Kolkata, Sept 18 (PTI) In the backdrop of the Centre telling the Supreme Court(SC) of intelligence on links between some Rohingya Muslims, Pakistans ISI and the Islamic State, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said that the government should ensure that commoners did not suffer.

"I think all commoners are not terrorists. There are bad people and good people in every community. There is a difference between commoners and terrorists. Commoners must not suffer because if they do then humanity will suffer. I think that in accordance with the UN verdict we should not compromise our humanity with anything else," Banerjee told reporters at the secretariat here.

advertisement

The country, she said, cannot compromise with any terrorist activities. "If there is any terrorist then the Central government will take action against them," she said.

The West Bengal Chief Minister further said that the Centre has asked it to deport those, including children, of the Rohingya community who had arrived in the state. "But the Child Commission was not agreeing with the move".

"They (Centre) has asked us to deport the children and others of the Rohingyas who have come here. But Institution of child commission are not agreeing with it," she said.

The Centre today told the Supreme Court that the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their countinous stay posed "serious national security ramifications". PTI SCH KK KK

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Rijiju

Itanagar, Sept 18 (PTI) Union minister Kiren Rijiju has said the Centre will urge the Supreme Court to modify its order of granting citizenship to Chakma-Hajong refugees so that rights of indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh are not diluted.

"There is no decision of the Government of India to grant citizenship. It is the order of the Supreme Court. We are trying to tell the honourable Supreme Court that giving Chakmas and Hajongs the same rights as Arunachali is not acceptable to us.

advertisement

"People of Arunachal must appreciate that for the first time that the Government of India has not agreed.... So we are appealing to the apex court to modify this order... to ensure that rights of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh are protected," the minister of state for home affairs told reporters at Naharlagun helipad yesterday.

His remarks come days after he stated that a "middle ground" would be chosen so that the 2015 Supreme Court order to grant citizenship to Chakma-Hajong refugees can be honoured and the rights of the local population are not diluted.

"I am very clear. I dont care about any other thing. I think about my people. I value human rights and constitutional norms, but everything will be meaningful to me if all rights of our people are protected," the minister said yesterday.

Rijiju said that the state government should identify and evict all illegal occupants and wondered how they could encroach upon large areas, including national parks.

He said that the population of Chakma and Hajong refugees rose to over 64,000, when originally 2,748 families comprising 14,888 people were settled between 1964 to 1969 in Bordumsa-Diyun areas in Changlang district and Kokila area of Papum Pare district.

"We were not in the government then. I am now protecting the interest of Arunachal Pradesh because all the damage had been done. I dont want further damage to be done", he has said.

On September 13, Rjiju had said that "the Supreme Court order has to be honoured. Chakmas are settled in Arunachal Pradesh since 1964. But ST status and indigenous peoples rights wont be diluted."

The Chakma-Hajong refugee issue has evoked strong resentment in the state with many organisations and political parties saying that granting of citizenship to the refugees would distort the social fabric of the state.

Chakmas and Hajongs were originally residents of the Chittagong Hill Tracts in erstwhile East Pakistan who left their homeland when it was submerged by the Kaptai dam project in the 1960s.

advertisement

Rijiju, however, wondered how the message has gone that it is the Centres decision to grant citizenship to Chakmas and Hajong.

The minister also asked why governments in Arunachal were unable to check the illegal entries of Chakma and Hajongs since 1964.

"These are the faults but right now I cannot go back and correct the past. But now I can ensure the protection of the rights of the indigenous people. As long as I am there I cannot allow diluting the rights of the indigenous people. That is my obligation and duty," Rijiju has said.

He said that the BJP government in the state should start the process to evict the illegal encroachers. The previous government had failed to do it.

The Union minister said that state Chief Minister Pema Khandu had already given a commitment that proper enumeration would be done so that they (Chakma-Hajong) cannot encroach upon land in Arunachal Pradesh and the rights of the people.

The Arunachal Pradesh government has moved the Election Commission requesting it to delete the names of refugees from the voters list, he said.

Rijiju said that if they (Chakma-Hajong) want to come to the state they should come as any other Indian or foreigners with ILP/RAP but they cannot enjoy the status of Arunachalees.

advertisement

On Tibetan Refugee Rehabilitation Policy, the Union minister said that it was not a new policy but simply a renewal of the original policy adopted by the previous Congress regime at the centre.

There is nothing to debate as the policy which was adopted in 1959 was only renewed. The refugees are entitled to basic needs like water, education and healthcare, he said.

He has said that the Supreme Court in 2015 had directed the Centre as well as the state government to grant citizenship to Chakmas and Hajongs within three months.

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students? Union (AAPSU) has declared a state-wide dawn-to-dusk bandh tomorrow opposing the "Centres decision to grant citizenship to the Chakmas and Hajongs in the state".

Rijiju said that previous central governments settled Chakma and Hajong in the state through the NEFA administration and maintained that "they deserve to be citizens of the state which I had opposed tooth and nail".

The central government is trying to find a workable solution by proposing that the refugees will not be given rights, including land ownership, enjoyed by Scheduled Tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, an official had said. PTI UPL SUN MM RT

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
By PTI: By Shirish B Pradhan and K J M Varma

Kathmandu/Beijing, Sep 18 (PTI) China and Nepal have agreed to start technical works to build a cross-border railway link via Tibet to boost connectivity, according to Nepalese Foreign Ministry.

This was decided during the recent visit of Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara to Beijing.

advertisement

"Both sides have agreed to move forward technical works relating to construction of Nepal-China cross-border railway line," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement last week.

During the high-level talks in Beijing, Mahara had requested China to forward the work relating to preparation of a Detailed Project Report for the construction of inter- country railway line giving it high priority, it said.

However, Chinas state-run Peoples Daily has claimed that during Maharas visit to China early this month a deal has been struck to establish the rail link.

It said the rail link includes two lines: one connecting three of Nepals most important cities and two between China and Nepal.

The daily, however, did not identify the Nepalese cities.

The Sino-Nepali railway, which passes through the Chinese border town of Zhangmu and connects with routes in Nepal, will be the first railway by which China enters South Asia, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

"Although the railway connection between China and Nepal is intended to boost regional development and not for military purposes, the move will still probably irritate India," he was quoted as saying by the daily - the ruling communist partys official mouthpiece.

China last year agreed to consider building a railway into Nepal and to start a feasibility study for a free trade agreement with landlocked Nepal, which has been trying to lessen its dependence on its other big neighbour India.

Nepal also signed up to President Xi Jinpings Belt and Road initiative which is opposed by India as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. PTI SBP/KJV NSA ZH AKJ ZH

--- ENDS ---
The 40.4-kilometre highway in Tibet between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday with a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border.

By Press Trust of India: China has opened a strategic highway in Tibet to the Nepal border which could be used for civilian and defence purposes, a move that Chinese experts say will enable Beijing to make forays into South Asia, according to a media report today.

The 40.4-kilometre highway in Tibet between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday with a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border.

advertisement

The highway will shorten the journey from an hour to 30 minutes between the dual-use civil and military airport and Tibet's second-largest city.

State-run Global Times quoted experts as saying that the highway "will enable China to forge a route into South Asia in both economic and defence terms" and being a forerunner to a railway line connecting Nepal.

Geographically, any extension of the road and railway connectivity to South Asia is through India, Bhutan and to Bangladesh.

Chinese officials have said in the past that the projects are feasible and could become a trade corridor for India and China if New Delhi comes on board.

The new road runs parallel with the Xigaze-Lhasa railway and links the citys ring roads with the 5,476-kilometre G318 highway from Shanghai to Zhangmu on the Nepal border, the report said.

As part of G318, the highway connects the border town of Zhangmu with Lhasa, the provincial capital of Tibet. It can link with the future cross-border Sino-Nepali railway, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

The G318 with Xigaze in the middle connects to Nepal on one end and other end links to Nyingchi, the Tibetan town close to Arunachal Pradesh border. The highway runs very close to the border.

China has been stepping efforts to improve road connectivity between Tibet and Nepal while speeding up plans to build a railway line connecting to Nepals border after K P Sharma Oli, pro-China former Nepalese Prime Minister, signed a Transit Trade Treaty with Beijing last year during his tenure.

Oli signed the treaty at the height of the Madhesi agitation and their blockade of Indian goods to provide a major opening for China to reduce the dependence of the landlocked country on India, even as the transportation of essentials through the Himalayan terrain of Tibet would entail heavy costs for Nepal.

However, since the fall of Oli government, Chinas plans to speed up its efforts to make forays into Nepal through infrastructure expansion slowed down even though Kathmandu signed up for Beijings Belt and Road Initiative in May this year.

advertisement

The 25-meter-wide highway between Xigaze peace airport and Xigaze has four double lanes and is classified a first- tier highway, the Tibet Financial Daily reported.

"Highways in China are of a high standard including the one in Tibet. It can be used by armoured vehicles and as a runway for planes to take off when it has to serve a military purpose," Zhao said.

"The road is Tibets first real highway. It is our gift toward the upcoming 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China," Wei Qianggao, deputy head of the Tibet transportation department was quoted as saying by the Global Times.

As an important infrastructure programme in the 13th Five-Year Plan and a core section of Tibet highway network, the road will benefit the export-oriented economy of Xigaze and the complex traffic around Lhasa, Wei said.

Over five years, the standard of highways in Tibet and the traffic network have been gradually improved, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang Jinhe, another official from the Tibet transportation department, the report said.

advertisement

The total highway mileage in Tibet reached more than 80,000 kilometres in 2016, increasing nearly 19,000 kilometres since 2011, Wang said.

--- ENDS ---
Charanjit Singh Teja

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, September 18

Dr Jaswant Singh Gill, the mining engineer who evacuated 65 coal miners trapped in a waterlogged mine in West Bengal in 1989, was honoured by Sikh organisations here today.

While observing the Golden Jubilee, Sri Sukhmani Sahib Sewa Society organised an All-India annual function in the city.

On November 13, 1989, as many as 220 miners were breaking coal walls by triggering blasts in West Bengal when suddenly the wall of an underground table next to their site cracked and water started flooding in.

The accident claimed six lives, while those near the lift were pulled out.

However, 65 miners were still trapped underneath. It was next to impossible to enter the uneven borehole, which could collapse anytime, as the water in the pit was rising steadily.

Besides, there was very less oxygen. However, Gill was determined to save these 65 lives. He went inside the mine and culminated the operation successfully.

It took six hours to bring up the 65 miners one by one. Bollywood actor Ajay Devgan has acquired the rights of this real-life story to make a movie.
Rajinder Nagarkoti



Tribune News Service

Panchkula, September 18



The Central Bureau of Investigation read out statements of 59 witnesses as a special court in Panchkula hears final arguments in a murder case in which Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh stands accused.



The court directed Investigation Officer Armandeep Singh  the only witness whose statement remains to be heard  to appear before it on Tuesday, when the case is heard again.

Meanwhile, Gurmeet Singh, who is currently in a jail in Rohtak serving two sentences for rape and appears for the trial through video chat, complained of back pain on Monday and was allowed to rest from 3.353.55 pm.



Singh was sentenced to 20 years in jail for two rapes 10 years for each  last month.



He faces two murder trials: one for allegedly having Ranjit Singh  a former manager at the Dera  killed, and another for the suspected murder of journalist, Ram Chander Chhatrapati.



The court is currently hearing arguments in the two cases separately, with regular hearings in Ranjit Singhs case.



It will hear Chhatrapatis case on September 22.




New York, September 18

India-born former top US federal prosecutor, Preet Bharara, who was sacked by President Donald Trump, will launch a podcast to discuss justice and fairness issues, including the probe into the alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential polls.

The 48-year-old attorney told USA Today that he also plans to address his firing by Trump in one of the first podcasts, "so people will understand the context from which I'm speaking."

Bharara, an Obama-era appointee, was fired in March from his post as the US attorney for parts of New York City, including Manhattan.

"I'm not putting anything off limits," Bharara said.

"I'm not doing a weekly podcast to throw bombs. I'm a private citizen, I'm not special counsel Mueller," Bharara said, referring to former FBI director Robert Mueller, who's investigating Russia's suspected campaign of cyberattacks and fake news to influence the 2016 presidential election and possible collusion with Trump associates.

A Podcast is a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device, typically available as a series.

The podcasts could present Bharara with opportunities to discuss Trump and the new administration from his perspective, the report said.

"I have personal experience with how this president seems to view rule of law and law and order issues, and I have not been especially shy about that on social media," Bharara says.

Bharara's ouster from the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, one of the nation's most powerful legal posts, has given him more leeway to speak freely, the report said.

His new podcast series is titled "Stay Tuned With Preet" that launches on Wednesday  a winking reference to the catchphrase Bharara frequently employed to parry questions from news reporters about continuing federal investigations, the report said.

Trump fired him and 45 other US Attorney holdovers from the Obama administration after Bharara says he declined to return a phone call from the president, the report said.  PTI
Patna, September 18

Bihar DGP PK Thakur on Monday said Haryana Police had not cotacted Bihar Police, seeking help for arrest of jailed Dera Sacha Sauda chiefs adopted daughter Honeypreet Insan, who is believed to be hiding in Nepal currently.

Several districts of Bihar share international borders with the Himalayan nation.

Thakur also refuted reports that the state police had information on the whereabouts of Honeypreet through the states districts adjoining the Nepal border.

So far, Haryana Police has not approached Bihar Police in this connection, Thakur said.

Honeypreet Insan tops the list of 43 people wanted by Haryana Police in connection with incidents of violence that followed Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs conviction in two rape cases.

A senior police official at the police headquarters here said there was no information with the state police that Honeypreet was seen in areas along the Nepal border. All such reports are baseless. He said Bihar shares nearly 700-km porous border with Nepal.

For the last 10 days, reports have been appearing in the local as well as national media that Honeypreet might have crossed over to Nepal through Bihar. IANS
Chandigarh, September 18

Haryana Police on Monday released a list of the most wanted people for the violence by Dera Sacha Sauda sect followers last month. Sect Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singhs close aide Honeypreet tops the list.

Another top aide of Ram Rahim named in the list is the absconding Dera spokesman Aditya Insan.

Photographs of 43 suspects responsible for instigating or indulging in the large-scale violence have also been released on the Haryana Police website.

The photographs have mostly been obtained from video footage of TV news channels and police videos and CCTV cameras installed at various places in Panchkula. The police have not been able to identify the accused by name so far.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Ram Rahims conviction for rape led to violence in Panchkula town, adjoining Chandigarh on August 25 immediately after his conviction. The violence left 32 people dead in Panchkula and nearly 250 injured.

Nearly one lakh Dera followers had gathered illegally in Panchkula two to three days ahead of the rape verdict by the CBI special court.

Honeypreet , whose real name is Priyanka Taneja and is the controversial adopted daughter of Ram Rahim, has been absconding since August 25 evening.

She had accompanied the disgraced godman from Sirsa till the CBI special court in Panchkula where he was convicted on two counts of rape.

She even accompanied Ram Rahim in the government helicopter from Panchkula to Rohtak after he was convicted in the rape cases and was being shifted to the prison near Rohtak.

Haryana Police have booked Honeypreet for sedition and being involved in an alleged conspiracy to help Ram Rahim escape after his conviction.

The police have issued a lookout notice against her and raids are being conducted in various states to nab her.

Honeypreet, who is in her mid-30s and is considered closest to Ram Rahim, and has been his heroine in the films that he has directed, produced and acted in, in the last three years.

Though both Ram Rahim and Honeypreet call themselves as the father-daughter duo, her former husband had accused both of having an illicit relationship.

Her writ ran in the Dera set-up and the headquarters. Her clout was even bigger than the immediate family, including wife, son and daughters of Ram Rahim.

The police have also issued a lookout notice against Aditya Insan, a former eye-specialist from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Dera spokesman for many years.

He was last seen in Panchkula minutes before the violence broke out.

Insan was booked with four other Dera functionaries for sedition and inciting violence. IANS
Ahmedgarh: As many as 50 volunteers donated blood during a camp organised at Government Degree College, Karamsar, near here. Principal Jaswant Singh presided over the inaugural session and Head Granthi, Gurdwara Rara Sahib, Ajvinder Singh was the chief guest. Convener of the project Nirmal Singh said members of the Eco Club, National Service Scheme and Commerce Students Society donated blood to the Blood Bank Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana. Organisers felicitated the donors. OC

General body meeting held

Ludhiana: General body meeting of the Punjab National Bank Officers' Association, Ludhiana Circle, was held on Monday. Roshan Lal Arya, state secretary and chairman of Ludhiana Circle, presided over the meeting. He said the association was working for the welfare of members. He demanded regulated working hours for officials, to scrap anti-people and anti-national bank reforms and use of national savings for national development. TNS

Puja performed before Ramlila

Ahmedgarh: Office-bearers and activists of the Trimurti Kala Manch and Ram Lila Committee said Ramlila would be staged to perfection at MGMN Senior Secondary School and Grain Market. Deepak Sharma and Vikas Krishan Sharma, presidents of the two outfits, led the artistes and assistants during the Puja ceremony. Municipal Council president Shiraj Mohammad, SHO Baljinder Singh and former president of the Municipal Council Ravinder Puri were the guests of honour on the occasion. Appreciating concern of residents, art lovers and devotees towards standard and accuracy of historical events during Ramlila, chairman of the Trimurti Kala Manch Bimal Sharma and founder president Ramesh Dhir said the organisers had been advised to ensure that only authoritative sequence of events should be presented before spectators so that there was no misconception about the historical facts. OC

Officials visit Ludhiana

Ludhiana: Two officials  Dr Rahul Bargaje and Susheel Sule from Gilead Sciences, a pharmaceutical research company, visited Ludhiana to overview Hepatitis C programme, here on Monday. They will support the state in awareness activities and submit their feedback to the Managing Director, National Health Mission, to make a policy for awareness. They also met medical specialists, epidemiologist Dr Ramesh, Senior Medical Officer of the Civil Hospital, Dr Kulwinder Singh and Civil Surgeon Hardeep Singh Ghai. TNS

IMA meeting held

Ludhiana: A meeting of the Punjab unit of Indian Medical Association (IMA) was held here. In the meeting, IMA Punjab president Rajender Sharma suggested that Dr Ajit Singh Chawla should be allowed to continue as Joint Secretary, IMA Punjab, for another two years to run the state office smoothly. State Council members agreed to it. A new IMA Punjab state office was inaugurated at IMA House on that day. From now onwards, the office work of IMA Punjab will be done here and all office record will also be maintain here. Present on the occasion were Dr Rajender Sharma, president, IMA Punjab; Dr Navjot Singh Dahiya, general secretary, IMA Punjab; Dr Naresh Sud, finance secretary, IMA Punjab; Dr Avinash Jindal, president, IMA Ludhiana, among others. OC

International conference held

Geriatric Orthopaedic Society International Conference was held at Chandigarh. Doctors from the city also participated in the conference. Four live surgeries were telecast. All problems related to geriatric patients were discussed. City-based Dr Jagdip Madaan, who also participated in the conference, said to give best treatment, a patient having pain in knee or spine might need a joint replacement and spine surgery, but due to old age, surgery was not the best option so the other options were explored during the conference. TNS

Re-nominated

Gurmeet Singh Kular, president, Federation of Industrial and Commercial Organisation (FICO), and chairman, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ludhiana Zone, has been re-nominated as head of the Punjab region of IamSMEofIndia (Integrated Association of Micro, Small and Medium Organizations of India). Industrialists from various circles congratulated Kular. TNS
Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 18

From nearly three months the Civil Hospital is running out of the anti-rabies vaccines.

Only the first dose of the vaccine is available while those coming for the remaining doses are returning with no treatment.

At an average, nearly 40to50 patients go back home daily without getting the required dose of anti-rabies.

Sometime ago, the civil surgeon, Dr Hardeep Singh Ghai, procured 100 vaccines from the Jagraon Civil Hospital but those have been consumed too.

Presently, there are only 400 injections remaining in the stock of the hospital which are being given to the patients for their first dose.

If the patient comes immediately after a dog bite, then three injections are given and if the patient comes after few days, then five injections are given. Getting all doses is very important and one should not leave the treatment in between.

Khalbushan Singla, in charge of the drug store at the Civil Hospital said it has been three months since they have received the supply of the anti-rabies vaccine. We get the supply from the warehouse at Kharar and currently the supply is not coming although the vaccines are easily available in the market. Earlier, I used to send a person every week to get the weekly supply of 600 injections from Kharar. Since, we were collecting the supply ourselves regularly, that is why, we have the pending stock left which is helping us in treatment, said Singla.

After visiting twice to the Civil Hospital, Sunita Kumari thought it was better to get the vaccine from outside. I cannot afford to leave my work and come here after every two to three days to inquire about the availability of the vaccine. So, I got the second dose of the vaccine administer to my son from outside for Rs 300, she said.

Another patient, who kept on coming to the hospital repeatedly, said, the doctor kept asking him to visit after every few days but the injections were not available. I am only hopeful that the supply of injections is received in the coming week, he said.

The Assistant Civil surgeon, Dr Mohinder Singh, when contacted, said, they are not getting the supply, but have written to the authorities in this regard. The first dose of the vaccine is available and nearly 400 injections are still in the inventory.
New Delhi, September 18

The CBI has arrested a colonel of the Army Medical Corps, an MCI clerk and two others for alleged bribery of Rs 10 lakh for leaking information related to inspections of medical colleges and recognition of seats by the country's medical education regulator.

Col Ajay Kumar Singh, empanelled as an assessor in the Medical Council of India (MCI), was nabbed after a middleman was caught receiving Rs 10 lakh from two hawala operators on his behalf, a CBI spokesperson said here today.

The agency has also arrested Santosh Kumar, a lower division clerk in the MCI, and two middlemen -- Sushil Kumar and Sachin Kumar, the official said. Sushil Kumar was supposed to carry the bribe money on behalf of the colonel.

All the four accused have been sent to five days' CBI custody by a special court here, he said.

The arrests were made after the CBI registered an FIR against the four arrested accused and B Ramachandhiran, chairman, Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College and Research Centre, Puducherry.

The agency carried out searches at nine locations in Delhi, Puducherry and Chennai, including the residences of Singh, the medical college and offices of two hawala operators, he said.

CBI sources said Rs 2 crore was recovered during the searches.

According to the CBI FIR, MCI clerk Santosh Kumar was in regular contact with Ramachandhiran and shared sensitive information regarding the council.

He was also allegedly helping him with respect to some administrative matter regarding inspections and approvals related to the medical college.

"Kumar was also in regular touch with Colonel Singh of AMC, who was empanelled as an assessor with the MCI for inspecting various medical colleges," the CBI FIR has alleged.

It is alleged that Singh and Kumar were in regular touch with Ramachandhiran and had personal meetings with him and demanded illegal gratification for rendering support and providing information at regular intervals, the FIR alleged.

Ramachandhiran had recently delivered first instalment of illegal gratification to Singh and Kumar, it claimed.

Singh and Kumar wanted the remaining amount to be paid to them in lieu of extending favours by way of providing the information and helping in inspections, it alleged.

"They are engaging with the owners or management of medical institutions for obtaining huge periodical illegal gratification," the CBI has alleged.  PTI
By India Today Web Desk: Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar was picked up by Thane anti-extortion cell in an ongoing case of extortion.

He was picked up by encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma. Sharma was recently reinstated and posted with the Thane crime branch's anti extortion cell.

According to sources, a businessman had received calls from some gang members of Iqbal Kaskar demanding extortion. Sharma acted on the businessman's complaint and picked up Iqbal on Monday. He is presently being questioned by the anti-extortion cell officials in Thane.

advertisement

Kaskar was deported to India from United Arab Emirates in 2003 as he was wanted in a murder case and the Sara Sahara illegal construction case. However, he was acquitted in both the cases in 2007. In February 2015, Kaskar was arrested but released on bail in another extortion case.

WHO IS PRADEEP SHARMA?

Encounter specialist Pradeep Sharma has reportedly killed about 113 underworld gangsters in a career spanning 25 years. Sharma has over the years become cult figure with his bravado inspiring several Bollywood films. He was dismissed from service in 2008 for alleged role in the Lakhan Bhaiyya fake encounter. Maharashtra government had reinstated the top cop recently.

KASKAR WAS ASKED TO VACATE HOUSES

Last week, Dawood Ibrahim's brother Iqbal Kaskar was asked to vacate his dilapidated Mumbai houses which included the Dawarwala Building at Pakmodia Street in Bhendi Bazaar and Shabnam Guest House in JJ Marg area. Kaskar had been staying in Damarwala Building at Pakmodia Street in Bhendi Bazaar, south Mumbai since long. Dawood's late sister Hasina Parker also used to stay in this building.

Iqbal Kaskar escorted by Pradeep Sharma

A four-page notice under the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of Property) Act, 1976 or SAFEMA Act was pasted outside the Damarwala Building asking the occupants to vacate the structure.

Similar notice had also been put up at Shabnam Guest House located in JJ Marg area.

Earlier this year, the Appellate Tribunal for Forfeited Property had given the central government an approval to take over Dawood Ibrahim's two properties in located south Mumbai.

The tribunal had declared both properties as "illegally acquired" and approved their takeover under SAFEMA Act.

ARRESTED AND RELEASED ON BAIL IN 2015

Kaskar was arrested but granted bail in an extortion case in February 2015.

JJ Marg police station had registered a case against him after a real-estate agent, Mohammed Salim Shaikh, filed a complaint alleging that Kaskar and his men assaulted him and demanded Rs 3 lakh. Kaskar and two others were booked under IPC sections 385 (extortion), 323 (causing hurt) and 34 (common intention). He was released on bail later.

--- ENDS ---
New Delhi, September 18

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said anti-national elements had been trying to foment tension in society by posting unverified information on social media and asked people not to forward such messages without verification.

Singh said information and news, that was completely wrong or having no basis, was being regularly circulated on social media such as WhatsApp and many people considered it to be true.

I want to tell SSB jawans not to believe such messages and forward them to anyone without verification as anti-national elements have been trying to foment trouble in society. We all have to be careful before believing or forwarding them, he said after launching the intelligence wing of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) here.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Lauding the role of the SSB, which guards the 1,751-km-long Indo-Nepal and the 699 km-long Indo-Bhutan borders, Singh said it is very tough to guard such open borders, which allowed visa-free movement of people, than fenced borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.

In an open border, the security men do not know who is anti-national, which way a criminal is coming or who is carrying fake currency or fake drugs, he said.

Referring to his earlier announcement that the family of each martyred paramilitary solider would get at least Rs 1 crore as compensation, the Home Minister said he was contemplating to do something for those serving personnel who faced an emergency situation but are unable to cope with it and needed help.

I am also thinking to do something and I will certainly do it, he said amid applause from about 1,000 guests, mostly serving and retired personnel from different paramilitary forces.

Earlier, the Home Minister launched the SSBs first-ever intelligence wing, which will gather information along the borders with Bhutan and Nepal, which are often used by criminals and Kashmiri militants returning from Pakistan.

The intelligence wing will have 650 field and staff agents to gather actionable information.

Due to the visa-free regime India has with Nepal and Bhutan, there is a trans-border movement of criminals and anti-national elements which posed a major challenge, a home ministry official said.

As many as 230 former Kashmiri militants, based in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, have returned home through the Indo-Nepal border since 2010.

The Indo-Bhutan border is known to be frequented by the Assam-based insurgent group National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), which has even attacked Bhutanese nationals in the past.

The SSB has also been declared as the lead intelligence agency for both the borders. Thus, the central government felt that a well-knit intelligence network of the highest capability that can function and deliver would be the prime requirement for comprehensive border management.

This was essential as the SSBs operations are based on intelligence to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan, the official said. PTI
New Delhi, September 18

The Central Bureau of Investigation claimed on Monday in the Supreme Court that it had more material to substantiate its charges against Karti Chidambaram, son of former Union Minister P Chidambaram, in a graft case.

During the brief hearing in the case that took place twice during the day before a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, the CBI said it was ready with a sealed envelope containing the documents to buttress its probe done so far.

However, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Karti, said that the Bench, also comprising Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud, should not take on record the documents without the agency filing an affidavit in this regard.

The Bench adjourned the matter for final hearing on September 22 on the appeal of the CBI challenging the Madras High Court order staying government's look out circular against Karti Chidambaram.

The FIR lodged by the CBI on May 15 had alleged irregularities in Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Karti's father was the Finance Minister.

Sibal alleged that the CBI has been seeking adjournments in the case and a person cannot be interrogated in this manner.

Earlier, he had alleged that all baseless allegations have been levelled against Karti and had challenged the CBI to bring out the details of any property that the Chidambarams cannot account for.

Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, had vehemently countered the submission and said the probe was at a very crucial stage and substantial information have been given to the court in a sealed cover.

On September 1, the CBI had told the apex court that there were "good, cogent" reasons for issuing look out circular against Karti.

On August 18, the court had asked Karti to appear before the investigating officer at the CBI headquarters here for questioning in the case.

The Bench had given the probe agency the liberty to question Karti as many times it wanted.

Before this, the apex court had said that Karti would not be allowed to leave India without subjecting himself to investigation in the case. The court had then stayed the Madras High Court order putting on hold the LOC issued by the Centre against Karti.

The CBI had claimed that the FDI proposal of the media house, cleared by Chidambaram, was "fallacious".

The FIR was registered on May 15 before the special CBI judge here and the registration of the case was followed by searches at the residences and offices of Karti and his friends on May 16. PTI
New Delhi, September 18

The Delhi High Court on Monday called for the trial court records of a suit filed against former President Pranab Mukherjee seeking deletion of some portions of his 2016 book for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments.

The direction was issued by Justice P S Teji, who set a long date of February 14 next year, to hear the appeal against the lower court's order of November 30 last year rejecting the plea seeking deletion of certain contents from the book 'Turbulent Years 1980-1996'.

The suit in the trial court was filed by a social worker and a group of lawyers objecting to certain references in the book regarding the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya in 1992. They had contended that it allegedly hurt the sentiments of the Hindus.

Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, appearing for the plaintiffs, argued that the lower court wrongly dismissed the suit on the ground that there was no cause of action.

He contended before the high court that there was cause of action when the book was published on January 28 last year and also after September 5, 2016, when the two-month notice issued by the plaintiffs for deletion of portions of the book had expired.

The plaintiffs' advocates had claimed before the trial court that a civil suit can be filed against the President during his tenure in respect of any act done by him in his "personal capacity."

The President's counsel, however, had opposed the plea before the trial court and said it was not maintainable. PTI
Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, September 18

A solemn military ceremony marked the final rites of Marshal of the Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh, at the Delhi cantonment on Monday morning.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

His son Arvind Singh, who had flown in from the US, lit the funeral pyre amidst an Ardas recited by a Sikh priest.

Just minutes before the final rites, a 17-gun salute was accorded. It was followed by a flight of three Mi17 V5 copters flying with flags of the country and the IAF under-slung. A formation of Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jets gave the final salute, in what is called missing man formation for Marshal Arjan Singhs final flight. The missing man formation flying is marked to signify the loss of fallen comrade. It reserved as high honour in the IAF.

Read: Nation salutes Marshal of IAF

Fighter jet, gun salute for MIAF Arjan Singh today

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani , Union Urban Development Minister Hardeep Puri were among the mourners and paid their respects. A wreath was laid on the mortal remains by IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa.



The Marshall had been accorded a state funeral and the National Flag shall fly half-mast in New Delhi on Monday.

The rank of Marshal of Indian Air Force, is equal to a Field Marshal of the Indian Army. The Marshal had died on Saturday.

The mortal remains of the Marshal were carried in gun carriage procession that started from his home at 8:15 am on Monday. As the funeral pyre was lit, the tri-services guard lowered arms  a gesture to hold the personal rifle close to the left side of the chest and stand in a static position.

In July 2008 the funeral of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, conducted in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, was also a state funeral; however, then Defence Minister AK Antony and the three Service Chiefs had not attended it and had faced a barrage of criticism.
New York, September 18

Foreign Ministers of India, Japan and the US on Monday emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, as they held a trilateral meeting in the backdrop of Doklam crisis and assertive Chinese behaviour.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly here, the three top diplomats  External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono  also exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

The Ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined, Kumar said in a statement.

China is engaged in hotly-contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea.

However, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

India and China last month ended a 73-day standoff in Doklam area of the Sikkim sector that was triggered by China's move to build a road in the border area.

Swaraj also deplored North Koreas recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, Kumar said.

Tensions have dramatically risen on the Korean peninsula after North Korea early this month conducted its biggest nuclear test, which its state-run KCNA news agency described it as a hydrogen bomb.

The three ministers directed their senior officials to explore practical steps to enhance cooperation, he said at the conclusion of the meeting.

Swaraj arrived in New York early today to attend the 72nd annual session of the UN General Assembly. She is scheduled to address the United Nations on September 23.

During her week-long stay here, she is likely to hold between 15-20 bilateral meetings in addition to several multilateral and trilateral meetings.

She is scheduled to have a series of other meetings today, including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General.  PTI
Sittwe (Myanmar), September 18

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims in violence-hit northwest Myanmar are pleading with authorities for safe passage from two remote villages that are cut off by hostile Buddhists and running short of food.

Were terrified, Maung Maung, a Rohingya official at Ah Nauk Pyin village, told Reuters by telephone. Well starve soon and theyre threatening to burn down our houses. Another Rohingya contacted by Reuters, who asked not to be named, said ethnic Rakhine Buddhists came to the same village and shouted, Leave, or we will kill you all. Fragile relations between Ah Nauk Pyin and its Rakhine neighbours were shattered on August 25, when deadly attacks by Rohingya militants in Rakhine State prompted a ferocious response from Myanmars security forces.

At least 4,30,000 Rohingya have since fled into neighbouring Bangladesh to evade what the United Nations has called a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

About a million Rohingya lived in Rakhine State until the recent violence. Most face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

Tin Maung Swe, secretary of the Rakhine State government, told Reuters he was working closely with the Rathedaung authorities, and had received no information about the Rohingya villagers plea for safe passage.

There is nothing to be concerned about, he said when asked about local tensions. Southern Rathedaung is completely safe. National police spokesman Myo Thu Soe said he also had no information about the Rohingya villages but that he would look into the matter.

Asked to comment, a spokeswoman for the US State Departments East Asia Bureau made no reference to the situation in the villages, but said the United States was calling urgently for Myanmars security forces to act in accordance with the rule of law and to stop the violence and displacement suffered by individuals from all communities. Tens of thousands of people reportedly lack adequate food, water, and shelter in northern Rakhine State, spokeswoman Katina Adams said. The government should act immediately to assist them.

Adams said Patrick Murphy, the US deputy assistant secretary of state for East Asia, would reiterate grave US concern about the situation in Rakhine when he meets senior officials in Myanmar this week.

Britain is to host a ministerial meeting on Monday on the sidelines of the annual U.N. General Assembly in New York to discuss the situation in Rakhine.

No boats

Ah Nauk Pyin sits on a mangrove-fringed peninsula in Rathedaung, one of three townships in northern Rakhine State.

The villagers say they have no boats.

Until three weeks ago, there were 21 Muslim villages in Rathedaung, along with three camps for Muslims displaced by previous bouts of religious violence. Sixteen of those villages and all three camps have since been emptied and in many cases burnt, forcing an estimated 28,000 Rohingya to flee.

Rathedaungs five surviving Rohingya villages and their 8,000 or so inhabitants are encircled by Rakhine Buddhists and acutely vulnerable, say human rights monitors.

The situation is particularly dire in Ah Nauk Pyin and nearby Naung Pin Gyi, where any escape route to Bangladesh is long, arduous, and sometimes blocked by hostile Rakhine neighbours.

Maung Maung, the Rohingya official, said the villagers were resigned to leaving but the authorities had not responded to their requests for security. At night, he said, villagers had heard distant gunfire.

Its better they go somewhere else, said Thein Aung, a Rathedaung official, who dismissed Rohingya allegations that Rakhines were threatening them.

Only two of the August 25 attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) took place in Rathedaung. But the township was already a tinderbox of religious tension, with ARSA citing the mistreatment of Rohingya there as one justification for its offensive.

In late July, Rakhine residents of a large, mixed village in northern Rathedaung corraled hundreds of Rohingya inside their neighbourhood, blocking access to food and water.

A similar pattern is repeating itself in southern Rathedaung, with local Rakhine citing possible ARSA infiltration as a reason for ejecting the last remaining Rohingya.

Another place

Maung Maung said he had called the police at least 30 times to report threats against his village.

On September 13, he said, he got a call from a Rakhine villager he knew. Leave tomorrow or well come and burn down all your houses, said the man, according to a recording Maung Maung gave to Reuters.

When Maung Maung protested that they had no means to escape, the man replied: Thats not our problem. On August 31, the police convened a roadside meeting between two villages, attended by seven Rohingya from Ah Nauk Pyin and 14 Rakhine officials from the surrounding villages.

Instead of addressing the Rohingya complaints, said Maung Maung and two other Rohingya who attended the meeting, the Rakhine officials delivered an ultimatum.

They said they didnt want any Muslims in the region and we should leave immediately, said the Rohingya resident of Ah Nauk Pyin who requested anonymity.

The Rohingya agreed, said Maung Maung, but only if the authorities provided security.

He showed Reuters a letter that the village elders had sent to the Rathedaung authorities on Sept. 7, asking to be moved to another place. They had yet to receive a response, he said.

Violent history

Relations between the two communities deteriorated in 2012, when religious unrest in Rakhine State killed nearly 200 people and made 1,40,000 homeless, most of them Rohingya. Scores of houses in Ah Nauk Pyin were torched.

Since then, said villagers, Rohingya have been too scared to leave the village or till their land, surviving mainly on monthly deliveries from the World Food Programme (WFP). The recent violence halted those deliveries.

The WFP pulled out most staff and suspended operations in the region after Aug. 25.

Residents in the areas two Rohingya villages said they could no longer venture out to fish or buy food from Rakhine traders, and were running low on food and medicines.

Maung Maung said the local police told the Rohingya to stay in their villages and not to worry because nothing would happen, he said.

But the nearest police station had only half a dozen or so officers, he said, and could not do much if Ah Nauk Pyin was attacked.

A few minutes walk away, at the Rakhine village of Shwe Long Tin, residents were also on edge, said its leader, Khin Tun Aye.

They had also heard gunfire at night, he said, and were guarding the village around the clock with machetes and slingshots in case the Rohingya attacked with ARSAs help.

Were also terrified, he said.

He said he told his fellow Rakhine to stay calm, but the situation remained so tense that he feared for the safety of his Rohingya neighbours.

If there is violence, all of them will be killed, he said. Reuters
Beijing, September 18

China has opened a strategic highway in Tibet to the Nepal border which could be used for civilian and defence purposes, a move that Chinese experts say will enable Beijing to make forays into South Asia, according to a media report today.

The 40.4-km highway in Tibet between Xigaze airport and Xigaze city centre officially opened to the public on Friday with a short section linking the national highway to the Nepal border.

The highway will shorten the journey from an hour to 30 minutes between the dual-use civil and military airport and Tibets second-largest city.

State-run Global Times quoted experts as saying that the highway will enable China to forge a route into South Asia in both economic and defence terms and being a forerunner to a railway line connecting Nepal.

Geographically, any extension of the road and railway connectivity to South Asia is through India, Bhutan and to Bangladesh. Chinese officials have said in the past that the projects are feasible and could become a trade corridor for India and China if New Delhi comes on board.

The new road runs parallel with the Xigaze-Lhasa railway and links the citys ring roads with the 5,476-km G318 highway from Shanghai to Zhangmu on the Nepal border, the report said.

As part of G318, the highway connects the border town of Zhangmu with Lhasa, the provincial capital of Tibet. It can link with the future cross-border Sino-Nepali railway, said Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies.

The G318 with Xigaze in the middle connects to Nepal on one end and other end links to Nyingchi, the Tibetan town close to Arunachal Pradesh border. The highway runs very close to the border.

The 25-metre-wide highway between Xigaze peace airport and Xigaze has four double lanes and is classified a first-tier highway, the Tibet Financial Daily reported.  PTI

Forging a route into South Asia
Baghdad, September 18

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said on Monday he had formally demanded the Kurdistan region suspend an independence referendum that regional neighbours and Western powers fear could undermine a campaign against Islamic State militants.

Turkey, which like Iran harbours fears of Kurdish separatism on its own territory, carried out military exercises at the Iraqi border. Iran warned of unspecified consequences if the Iraqi Kurds went ahead with their plans.

But the Kurdish leadership in northern Iraq showed no sign of flinching despite coming under intense international and regional pressure to call off the September 25 vote.

Kurdish forces have, with US backing, been in the forefront of the battle against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. But the Kurdish involvement strains relations between Washington and Ankara.

The Iraqi Supreme Federal Court approved Abadis demand to consider the breakaway of any region or province from Iraq as unconstitutional, his office said.

Holding (the referendum) will lead to dangerous outcomes, resulting in the division of Iraq and threatening civil peace. The court, in charge of settling disputes between the central government and the provinces, ordered the government of the autonomous Kurdish region to stop the referendum.

Iraqi state TV said the court had issued an order to stop the procedures of the referendum planned on September 25 (..) by the Kurdistan regional presidency.

The UN, the US, Britain and France have renewed over the past 48 hours their rejection of the vote, seen as a distraction from the war on Islamic State militants who continue to occupy parts of Iraq and Syria.

They called on Erbil, the seat of the Kurdistan Regional Government, to talk with Baghdad to resolve land and power sharing disputes.

Iran also demanded restraint from the Iraqi Kurds. Any damage to this strategic principle (of Iraqs unity) would lead to the revision of and serious alteration in the existing cooperation between Iran and Iraqs Kurdistan region, said Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Irans Supreme National Security Council, according to state-run Press TV.

Turkish PM Binali Yildirim has said the planned referendum is an issue of national security, and warned that Turkey will take any necessary steps in response.

Around a hundred Turkish military vehicles, mostly tanks, took part in exercises near the Habur border gate, a crossing point into Iraq, the private Dogan news agency said on Monday. Vehicles carrying missiles and howitzers also participated.

Turkey especially has large commercial investments in northern Iraq and long cultivated close relations with Erbil, despite a conflict on its own territory with Kurdish separatists that has run since 1984. Oil is a central issue.  Reuters

Top court orders suspension of referendum

Iraqs supreme court on Monday ordered the suspension of a September 25 referendum on the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan, to examine whether such a poll would be constitutional

The supreme court has issued the order to suspend organising the referendum set for September 25... until it examines the complaints it has received over this plebiscite being unconstitutional, it said in a statement

The courts order bears legal weight but it cannot be implemented in practice in the Kurdish region which has its own police and its own government, led by Massoud Barzani

Turkey, Iran wary
Tokyo, September 18

The international community must remain united and enforce sanctions against North Korea after its repeated launch of ballistic missiles, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in an editorial published in the New York Times on Sunday.

Abes editorial was published before world leaders gather in New York for a United Nations General Assembly meeting this week, where North Koreas ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programmes are expected to loom large over proceedings.

North Korea launched a missile over Japan on Friday, its second in the past three weeks, and conducted its sixth and by far most powerful nuclear test on Sept. 3, in defiance of international pressure.

Such tests are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions and show that North Korea can now target the United States or Europe, Abe said.

Diplomacy and dialogue will not work with North Korea and concerted pressure by the entire international community is essential to tackle the threats posed by North Korea, Abe wrote.

A week ago, the 15-member UN Security Council unanimously adopted its ninth sanctions resolution since 2006 over North Koreas nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. Reuters
By PTI: Indore, Sep 18 (PTI) Swine flu today claimed the life of a 67-year-old man, taking the citys death toll due to the infection to 14 this year, a health official said.

Dr Asha Pandit, district in-charge of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), said the H1N1 patient was from Khandwa district.

"He was admitted to a private hospital in the city. Today, his family members got him discharged from the hospital and were taking him home, when he died en-route," she added.

advertisement

According to Dr Pandit, 68 patients, who are currently undergoing treatment at different hospitals here, have tested positive for swine flu so far. Of them, 14 died of H1N1 flu, she said. PTI HWP LAL NP

--- ENDS ---
Islamabad, September 18

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) on Monday challenged an anti-terrorism courts verdict which had set five Pakistani Taliban suspects free and declared former military ruler Pervez Musharraf an absconder in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case.

Bhutto, the 54-year-old PPP chief and a two-time prime minister, was killed along with more than 20 people in a gun and bomb attack in Rawalpindis Liaquat Bagh during an election campaign rally on December 27, 2007.

The anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi had set free five Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) suspects citing lack of evidence. The court had also ordered authorities to confiscate Musharrafs properties and declared him an absconder.

PPPs senior advocate Latif Khosa filed three appeals in the Rawalpindi Bench of the Lahore High Court against the August 31 verdict.

In one of the appeals, he asked the court to try and convict Musharraf, in absentia, if he had failed to comply with the arrest warrant issued by the court.

Khosa said that Bhutto, in one of her letters, had declared that Musharraf would be held responsible in case she was killed.

In a second appeal, the PPP lawyer asked the court to change the sentence of two police officers into death sentence.

Saud Aziz was police chief of Rawalpindi Khurram while Shahzad was Superintendent of Police when Bhutto was assassinated in 2007.

In the third appeal, the PPP sought death sentence for the five TTP militantsRafaqat Hussain, Husnain Gul, Sher Zaman, Aitzaz Shah and Abdul Rashid.

Benazir, daughter of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was the first woman prime minister of any Muslim country to be assassinated.  PTI
United Nations, September 17

When President Donald Trump takes the world stage at the United Nations for the first time this week, he will share the spotlight with his envoy Nikki Haley, who has emerged as the surprising public face of US foreign policy.

Haley, the 45-year-old former South Carolina governor, has proven to be a high-profile member of Trumps administration, at times overshadowing Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, the former chief executive of Exxon Mobil Corp, despite her lack of previous foreign policy experience, diplomats say.

For the US, Nikki Haley is remarkable. Its hard to find in the Trump administration. Its someone who is very approachable and politically very assertive, said a senior European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity.

I see her potentially taking over from Tillerson at some point. Its clear her long-term objective is the presidency, the diplomat said.

Haley dismisses speculation she could replace Tillerson, the countrys top diplomat, who has at times publicly differed with Trump during the Presidents eight months in the White House.

On Sunday, she told CNN that Tillerson is not going anywhere and I continue to work well with him. Trumps speech on Tuesday at the UN General Assembly will be his highest profile opportunity to explain his foreign policy vision couched in his America First agenda.

Haley arrived at the 193-member world body in January pledging to take names of allies who did not have Washingtons back. Trump administration officials say the president, happy with her performance, views her as both tough and smart.

He speaks regularly with Haley, his fellow Republican, one US administration official said.

Her bluntness raises eyebrows

Twice in five weeks she persuaded the 15-member UN Security Council to unanimously boost sanctions on North Korea.

Her blunt language has raised eyebrows among diplomats.

At the same time she has been careful not to steal the limelight from Trump, a wealthy businessman and former reality television star.

I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with the US being very strong in the end, Haley told White House reporters on Friday.

European Council on Foreign Relations U.N. expert Richard Gowan said Haleys success could make Trump nervous and that it would be a bad deal for her if she was asked to replace Tillerson as secretary of state.

She would lose the independence she enjoys in New York and (it would) tie her more closely to the presidents agenda. But it is an offer that she could not refuse. Its an irony that the one way Trump can hurt Haley is to promote her, he said.

Haley credits Trump with any US achievements at the United Nations. After the Security Council toughened sanctions on North Korea this month, she praised his strong relationship with his Chinese counterpart for the result.

When he dismissed the September 11 UN resolution, which had been weakened by China and Russia, as just another very small step, not a big deal, Haley jumped to his defense and dismissed any suggestion they were not on the same page.

If we have to go further, this is going to look small compared to what we do, she said at the time.

Made her mark

Haley has made her mark also by fighting what she describes as U.N. anti-Israel bias, pushing for U.N. reform amid Trumps call to slash US funding, accusing Iran of meddling in the Middle East and challenging Russia over Ukraine and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that during a National Security Council meeting on Iran this month, Trump specifically asked Haleys opinion about what strategy to pursue.

She gave her opinion, and he liked her point of view, the official said. She wasnt afraid to speak up. A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, This lady for some reason is very angry with Iran.

Before her selection as ambassador, Haley made national headlines when as governor she led a successful effort to remove the Confederate battle flag, viewed by many as a racist emblem, from the grounds of the South Carolina state capitol after the killing of nine black churchgoers in her state.

During the 2016 presidential campaign Haley sparred with Trump, backing one of his rivals before he became the Republican candidate. The daughter of immigrants from India, Haley took Trump to task over his harsh campaign rhetoric about illegal immigration and for not speaking forcefully enough against white supremacists.

When last month Trump inflamed tensions by saying that counter-protesters were also to blame for a deadly rally by white nationalists in Virginia, Haley spoke up, telling US

media she had a personal conversation with him about it.

Without naming Trump she wrote to staff at the US mission to the United Nations to say that everyone must stand up and condemn hate. Reuters
Seoul, September 18

The US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Koreas latest nuclear and missile tests, a report said.

Four F-35B stealth fighters and two B-1B bombers staged mock bombing drills over the peninsula this morning, South Koreas Yonhap news agency said, citing an unidentified Seoul government source.

If confirmed, they would be the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets trained together with four South Korean F-15K jet fighters before returning to their bases in Japan and Guam, Yonhap quoted the source as saying.

The previous such flights were on August 31. The US military could not immediately confirm the latest flights.

The US is ramping up pressure on the North, with its ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley warning that Pyongyang would be destroyed if it refused to end its reckless weapons drive.

Efforts to tame the increasingly belligerent North are set to dominate US President Donald Trumps address to the UN General Assembly and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared again when Kim Jong-Uns regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific on Friday, responding to new UN sanctions over its atomic test with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert stronger pressure on the North, with Moons office warning that further provocation would put it on a path of collapse.

Trump has also not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capitaland 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the Southvulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trumps National Security Advisor HR McMaster said the US would have to prepare all options if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the Norths weapons drive. AFP
Advanced safety systems were one offering of the Meritor Wabco joint venture. Photo: Meritor Wabco

Wabco Holdings Inc. is expanding its operations in North America by taking full ownership of the Meritor Wabco joint venture.

Wabco announced Monday that it has signed an agreement to Meritors stake in the joint venture business for $250 million. The transaction is expected to close on October 1.

Meritor Wabco, employing about 200 people, is headquartered in Troy, Michigan, and had sales of $300 million in fiscal year 2016. It currently sells and distributes a range of Wabcos safety and efficiency technologies for commercial vehicles in North America.

The agreement to take full control of the joint-venture business will enable Wabco to offer, all under the Wabco brand, its consolidated portfolio of products and systems, including wheel-end solutions, air disc brakes, autonomous braking, electronic stability and active steering control systems, alongside advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a full range of aerodynamic, air management and transmission automation control products in North America.

The acquisition of the remaining stake in Meritor Wabco furthers our commitment to expand our presence in North America, said Jacques Esculier, Wabco chairman and CEO.

Meritor intends to use the proceeds from the transaction toward its M2019 strategic priorities, which include paying down debt, funding strategic investments and repurchasing additional shares.

"The decision to sell our interest in the JV enables us to focus on strategic priorities that involve growing our on- and off-highway, specialty, components and aftermarket businesses, among other things," said Jay Craig, Meritor CEO and president.



Wabco says this consolidation of its business organization and broader access to market in North America will strengthen its relationships with commercial vehicle manufacturers and fleets through more simplified and direct channels.

Wabco will take over the former joint ventures application engineering and supply chain operations, including the distribution center and customer service hub in Hebron, Kentucky. In addition, Wabco will continue to have exclusive access to a winter test track in Sault St. Marie, Michigan, and joint access to a year-round test track in East Liberty, Ohio.

Since 1990, the Meritor Wabco North American joint venture (originally Rockwell Wabco) has focused on the development and delivery of integrated safety technology and efficiency components, including braking systems and controls, active safety systems, and suspension and control systems, for commercial vehicles in North America.

Following the closing, Meritor will continue to provide sales, service and training to Meritor Wabco customers through its DriveForce team for up to two years, and call center services for customer support and the processing of warranty claims for a period of approximately one year. In addition, Meritor will remain the exclusive distributor of a certain range of Wabco's aftermarket products in the United States and Canada, and the non-exclusive distributor in Mexico.

Both parties have the option to terminate the distribution arrangements at certain points during the first three and half years, for an exercise price between $225 million and $265 million based on the earnings of the business.
Riz won the Best Lead Actor in Limited Series award for his performance in The Night Of.

By India Today Web Desk: This year's Primetime Emmy Awards show, hosted by popular American talk show host Stephen Colbert, was held in Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. The first big award of the event was won by John Lithgow for his performance in The Crown in the Best Supporting Actor (Drama) category.

Lithgow beat actors like Mandy Patinkin (Homeland), and This is Us' Ron Cephas Jones to take home the coveted award.

advertisement

The Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in comedy series was awarded to Kate McKinnon for Saturday Night Live; Alec Baldwin walked away with the award in Outstanding Supporting Actor in comedy series.

Donald Glover won the Emmy in the Best Directing for Comedy Series category, while Laura Dern bagged an Emmy in the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a limited series category for her performance in Big Little Lies.

Alexander Skarsgard won one for Big Little Lies in the Best Supporting Actor in a limited series category, while Jean-Marc Vallee won the Emmy in the Directing for a Limited Series category for Big Little Lies.

Best Lead Actress in Drama Series was won by Elisabeth Moss for The Handmaid's Tale, and This is Us' Sterling K Brown won the Best Lead Actor award in Drama Series.

And the win for Lead Actor in a Drama goes to @SterlingKBrown for his work in @NBCThisisUs! #Emmys pic.twitter.com/LaWyKof8M7- Television Academy (@TelevisionAcad) September 18, 2017

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series category went to Bruce Miller for The Handmaid's Tale, and Saturday Night Live won in the Best Variety Sketch Series category. Last Week Tonight With John Oliver won the Emmy in the Outstanding Writing for Variety Series category and Outstanding Variety Talk Series category, which was presented to him by Indian actress Priyanka Chopra and Black-ish's Anthony Anderson; the Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series went to Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe for Master of None.

Riz Ahmed created history by becoming the first Asian man to win an Emmy in an acting category. The actor won the Best Lead Actor in Limited Series award for The Night Of.

The winner of Best Supporting Actress in Drama Series went to Ann Dowd for her performance in The Handmaid's Tale, while Reed Morano won an Emmy in Directing for a Drama Series Category for The Handmaid's Tale.The show also won the award in the Outstanding Drama Series category.

Charlie Brooker won in the category of Writing for a Limited Series for Black Mirror: San Junipero, and Don Roy King won in the Directing for a Variety Series category for SNL. The Outstanding reality TV series was won by The Voice.

advertisement

Donald Glover won the Outstanding Lead Actor in Comedy Series for Atlanta, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus won Outstanding Lead Actress in Comedy Series for Veep, while Nicole Kidman won in the Best Lead Actress in Limited Series category for Big Little Lies.The show (Big Little Lies) also won the Outstanding Limited Series award, while Black Mirror was awarded the Best Television Movie Award. HBO's Veep won the Outstanding Comedy Series for its third consecutive year.

--- ENDS ---
Special education teachers have become so scarce that districts face fierce competition to find and keep good candidates and sometimes leave open positions unfilled.

Thats why late one night last month, Ponca City Public Schools Superintendent Shelley Arrott sprang into action when she heard the distinctive ding of her cellphone. The alert meant a job application had been submitted online to the district. She scrambled to arrange an interview the next morning for the applicant.

The district hired Melissa Parks, who is certified in special education, on the spot. And she has since received at least seven other job offers. Now, Arrott said, the focus is on keeping Parks and others like her.

I cant reduce their class size. I cant pay them more, Arrott said. But I can appreciate them and make them feel valued, so thats our big push.

Oklahoma schools started the school year with more than 500 teaching vacancies, but special education is the most difficult to fill, according to a recent survey of 300 districts by the Oklahoma State School Boards Association. Some districts report special education teacher vacancies year after year.

The shortage of special education teachers is a nationwide problem. It is likely compounded in Oklahoma by the states comparatively low teacher salaries, though state law requires that special education teachers receive a salary of 5 percent more than general education teachers. Forty-six states, including Oklahoma, reported shortages in special education for 2017-18 school year.

To fill teaching vacancies, Oklahoma schools are increasingly relying on emergency certified teachers, and as of August a record 1,400 had been approved. But by law, special education slots arent eligible.

For some school districts, a solution is larger class sizes. That means more students in regular classrooms, where special education students learn alongside other students, and larger self-contained classrooms, where students with disabilities receive specialized interventions and support.

Districts say hiring paraprofessionals helps special education teachers manage more students. Paraprofessionals provide instructional support, such as tutoring and classroom management; paraprofessional jobs dont require a degree and pay about $8 an hour.

High turnover is driving the shortage: Special education teachers tend to leave the classroom at higher rates than general education teachers, and they burn out quicker, research has shown. Coupled with the normal teaching demands is a grueling amount of paperwork and meetings required by federal law.

Why it matters

Special education teachers work with students with disabilities, which include autism, emotional disturbances, traumatic brain injuries, learning disabilities, and hearing and visual impairments. Sixteen percent of Oklahoma students, or more than 109,000, needed special education services in 2016-17, an increase of 10,000 students over 2011-12, according to the state Education Department.

Federal law requires each student with disabilities to be on an individualized education program, which has improved services for students but is contributing to teacher burnout, says Eleanor Goetzinger, a behavior specialist and special education teacher at Oklahoma City Public Schools.

Goetzinger said she always feels like a juggler with three balls in the air: teaching, a vast amount of paperwork and a lot of meetings. Youre trying to figure out whether to do the paperwork or teach the kids, she said.

She has also seen an increase in the number of students with mental illness who are at times dangerous to themselves or others  an issue she wrote about in 2016. Goetzinger was assaulted by a third-grader in 2013. And while taking the boy to the principals office, she was pushed into a wall by the boys father. She suffered a concussion but returned to the classroom.

Most of the time, special education students are educated within a regular classroom, with the special education teacher providing support.

Some small, rural districts dont employ a special education teacher, data show. If they have students with disabilities, those districts can either share services with another district or provide them through a special education co-op.

Fewer people and resources raise the risk that students wont receive the best quality education, said Katherine Bishop, vice president of the Oklahoma Education Association, who taught special education for 22 years.

Anytime you cut back ... thats less support youre able to give, she said.

Whats being done

Jenks Public Schools typically maintains a strong applicant pool but has for years struggled with vacancies in special education. This year, all positions were filled due to the districts beefed-up recruitment efforts and encouragement of other teachers to pursue certification in special education, said district spokesman Rob Loeber.

The state Department of Education offers a boot camp to fast-track educators willing to pursue a masters degree or certification in special education. This alternative route was approved by the Legislature in 2013.

Participants receive 120 hours of training in special education online and perform 30 hours of field experience, after which they can apply for a provisional certificate. They can start working with a provisional certificate, and it can be renewed twice as long as they complete six hours of college coursework per year. By the end of the third year, the candidate must meet the criteria for a standard certificate.

In 2016-17, the Education Department began providing grant money to reimburse districts the cost of special education training and certification, one of several initiatives recommended by a teacher shortage task force.

At the University of Oklahoma, initiatives include a debt-free teachers program, which forgives student loans for teachers who go into high-need areas.

Arrott, the Ponca City superintendent, said the lack of external applicants spurred her to recruit from within  by approaching classroom teachers and encouraging them to obtain certification in special education. So far, three have been certified.

Moore Public Schools started this school year with at least eight unfilled special education positions. The district is relying on paraprofessionals and teaching assistants in many schools, and Superintendent Robert Romines says its not ideal.

A certified special education teacher who has been trained to work with these children, thats key. Thats what we want, he said. But if theyre not out there, we have to look at different ways to staff those classrooms.
Goa has already announced ban on drinking in selected public places including beaches.

By PTI, Press Trust of India: Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has said that the state will ban drinking of liquor in public places to curb the nuisance created by people in drunken state.

He said necessary amendments to the excise act will be done next month.

"We need to come out with the notification banning drinking of liquor in public places. The notification will be issued by October end for which we will amend the existing law," Parrikar said at a function in Panaji.

advertisement

The state government is currently governing the licences to the liquor outlets under Goa, Daman and Diu Excise Act, 1964.

Goa has already announced ban on drinking in selected public places including beaches.

Parrikar said the state government is serious about inculcating the habit of wearing helmets while riding two- wheelers.

He said the police will penalise two-wheeler riders who are driving without helmet and also will tell them the benefits of wearing a helmet while driving.

WATCH: Operation Dryways: How liquor vendors on highways are openly flouting Supreme Court ruling

--- ENDS ---
This Page Is Under Construction - Coming Soon!

Why am I seeing this 'Under Construction' page?
facebook like button Tweet tweet button for twitter

Nearly 1,000 treated on medical mission trip

Office of Marketing & Communications

Published September 18, 2017

Twenty-six students and four faculty members from the University of Louisiana Monroe Kitty DeGree School of Nursing took a four-day trip to the Dominican Republic this summer to participate in a medical mission trip.

The trip was in collaboration with the Good Samaritan Hospital in LaRomano, D.R. This hospital sends medical groups out into 180 small communities throughout the sugarcane fields in southern Dominican Republic to help people who would otherwise have a hard time receiving medical care.

The people in these communities are very poor, have no transportation, live without electricity and running water and they cannot drive an hour or more away for medical care, said Dr. Rhonda Hensley, Associate Director of the ULM Graduate Nursing Program and Associate Professor in the School of Nursing. She coordinated the trip.

They depend on these medical groups for their health needs, Hensley said.

The ULM group raised money before embarking on the trip to be able to purchase the medicines and medical supplies used each day.

We were able to take over $10,000 worth of medication, several suitcases of toys and hygiene products, and were able to serve nearly 1,000 patients in four days, said Brittany Stagg, a nursing major who participated in the trip.

Seeing 250 patients per day wasnt easy. The students divided into two groups to increase efficiency by covering two communities each day.

The students set up a clinic in each community to check the patients and take their blood pressure prior to sending them to a doctor or a nurse practitioner. When the patients were sent to the pharmacy, the students helped them get their medication. Finally, each patient received a food basket and hygiene products at the end of the day. The children also received toys.

Nearly everyone was malnourished and had some type of worm in their system, said Stagg. Hypertension and diabetes go untreated in these areas, children, whose best toy was pushing around a water bottle on a stick, had severe protein deficiencies and flies often surrounded wounds we tried to treat.

Savannah Evans, a nursing major who participated in the trip, said most people are aware of the fact that people in the Dominican Republic live in poor conditions. However, one cannot even begin to fathom how bad they truly are until he or she experiences them.

We are so blessed for the luxuries that we have here in our country, said Evans. Even those who dont have very much (in the U.S.), still have more than the people in the Dominican Republic. I still appreciate the fact that I can walk into my kitchen and have an ice-cold water.

At the end of each working day, the students jumped up and played with local children, bringing lots of giggles and smiles.

I met a special needs child that I was able to decorate a cupcake, feed the cupcake, dance and laugh with, said Evans. It was one of the most amazing, humbling experiences and something that will always be a special moment to me.

Hensley said the trip was important for the students to realize that even though people live in different circumstances, they all have common needs as human beings.

We all need health, respect and caring, said Hensley.

Hensley said the students far exceeded her expectations.

They represented their university, their school of nursing and their country in such an admirable fashion, said Hensley. Their energy and compassion constantly amazed me and their willingness to work never failed.

The group was rewarded for their effort to better the world toward the end of the mission by visiting Saona Island where they spent a day on a beach.
Two years ago, Lydiella Hakizimana knew no more than a few words of English. Today it is her favourite subject.

As the bell rings for the start of the day at Paysannat L School, just outside Mahama refugee camp, she is at her desk ready to begin.

After civil unrest erupted in Burundi in 2015 over disputed elections, Lydiella, her mother and her three sisters joined refugees streaming into neighbouring Rwanda. Today there are more than 50,000 in Mahama, a camp close to the Burundian border.

Keen to regain some stability in her life, Lydiella, 13, looked forward to resuming her education. However, in Rwanda classes are taught in English, not French as in Burundi.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the Rwandan Government devised a solution. Together, they set up a system that enables refugee children to plug into Rwandas national curriculum.

It was the first time I had heard about the sciences and social studies.

This was in the form of a comprehensive, six-month bridging course, known as the orientation project, which includes English lessons. It is one of many such initiatives supported by UNHCR around the world to boost refugees education and help them move into a formal learning environment.

Refugees who largely missed out on an education at home follow the entire course. Others are enrolled in state schools at a suitable level as soon as they are ready. At the 2016 UN Summit for Refugees and Migrants, Rwanda pledged to help include Burundian refugees in its national education system. It is striving to meet that promise.

The Paysannat L School prepares refugee children from Burundi for integration into the Rwandan education system.

The bridging course introduced Lydiella to more than another language. It is designed to educate students in other subjects, too. It was the first time I had heard about the sciences and social studies, she says. Orientation is a way of getting used to what other students study here, especially if you are a newcomer.

Charles Munyaneza, UNHCRs associate education officer based in Kigali, says: We realized we needed to integrate refugee students into the national system as they faced serious barriers to coping and adapting.

It is a really crucial step towards including refugees in the national education system.

The bridging project started at Mahama in June 2015 with 2,500 students. Since then, more than 19,000 children have passed through. It is a really crucial step towards including refugees in the national education system, says Munyaneza.

Paysannat L is one of several schools in the area with the Paysannat name  with a total student population of almost 20,000  but it is the only one where refugees and local students learn side-by-side. Jean-Claude Muhyemama, the deputy head, says having a common language has played an important role in integrating the two communities and promoting good relations.

This project has really helped the Burundian students get to the same level as Rwandan students, he says. At the beginning, they knew very little or no English but now they can express themselves well.

Having adapted to the Rwandan curriculum and reached the last year of primary school, Lydiella enjoys her studies hugely. She hopes one day to spread her love of English to her fellow Burundians. If one day I return to Burundi, I will teach others English because it is important, she says. It is spoken around the whole world and so I think if people learn it, it will help them in their life.

Jean Harindwa, Lydiellas English teacher, has been working at the school since it opened in 2015. Himself a Burundian, he says teaching English has helped him with his own mastery of the language. It was a good thing to start this project, he says.

Most of these students fled their country and they didnt think they would ever learn again.

See UNHCR's 2017 report on refugee education, Left Behind: Refugee Education in Crisis.
By PTI: Ahmedabad, Sep 18 (PTI) BJP president Amit Shah today said continuance of his partys government in Gujarat was needed for a "peaceful" and "curfew free" atmosphere, a barb aimed at the Congress stint in power before 1995.

Shah also appealed to leaders of the cooperative sector associated with his party to reach out to farmers and ensure the BJPs tally rises to 150 in the upcoming polls.

advertisement

Crediting the BJP and its government for the completion of the Narmada dam, which was dedicated to the nation by Modi yesterday, Shah said the people of Gujarat are no longer dependent on water supplied through tankers which was a "routine during the Congress rule before 1995".

"Gujarat became a highly developed state because the BJP has been in power since 1995 and due to the efforts of the cooperative sector. If we want a curfew mukt, tanker mukt and peaceful Gujarat where a Rath Yatra procession passes off without any trouble, the rule of BJP is necessary," he said.

Shah, who was addressing a gathering of leaders of the cooperative sector, said the Congress was "daydreaming" about coming to power in the state, and asked them to ensure Gujarat does not slip into "wrong hands".

He said it was because of the BJP government that the state had round-the-clock power supply.

As part of the BJPs efforts to court farmers in the state where elections are due later this year, Modi had yesterday inaugurated the Amreli Agriculture Produce Market Committees (APMCs) new marketing yard in Saurashtra.

Shah said the cooperative sector leaders should work to ensure that the party won 150 out of the states 182 Assembly seats in the upcoming polls.

"When Narendra Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat, the BJP had won 129 seats. Now, when he is our prime minister, we must get 150. It is the duty of cooperative leaders to reach out to farmers and make them understand what the BJP has done for them," he said. PTI PJT PD NSK SK SK

--- ENDS ---
Mustapha in a class room at the Future Prowess Islamic Foundation School (I), Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria which he set up.  UNHCR/Rahima Gambo

Zannah Mustapha, a champion for the rights of displaced children growing up amid violence in north-eastern Nigeria to get a quality education, has been named the 2017 winner of UNHCRs Nansen Refugee Award.

Mustapha founded a school in 2007 in Maiduguri  the capital of Borno State and the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency. The school has stayed open throughout the conflict with Boko Haram, which has seen some 20,000 killed across the Lake Chad region, and millions more displaced.

The school provides a free education, as well as free meals, uniforms and health care, to children affected by violence. Those orphaned by the conflict on both sides are welcomed into Mustaphas classrooms as a sign of the reconciliation he hopes to achieve in the region.

Conflict can leave children with physical and emotional scars that are deep and lasting. It forces them from their homes, exposes them to unspeakable atrocities, and often rips apart their families, said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for helping refugee children overcome the horrors of violence and forced displacement. It empowers young people, equips them with skills and works to counter exploitation and recruitment by armed groups, Grandi added. The work Mustapha and his team are doing is of the utmost importance, helping to foster peaceful coexistence and rebuild communities in north-eastern Nigeria. With this award, we honour his vision and service.

The announcement of this years Nansen Refugee Award winner by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, comes as tens of thousands of Nigerian youth are growing up without an education. The countrys education sector is strained by its expanding youth population, and facilities in the north-east remain under attack by Boko Haram, who have destroyed schools and killed teachers.

Schools lie at the heart of a society. Destroying them crushes the chance of Nigerias next generation succeeding, said the Norwegian Refugee Councils Secretary General Jan Egeland, whose organization co-manages the Nanson Refugee Award project. The recognition of Zannah Mustaphas brave work highlights the importance of education for the future of Nigeria.

Mustapha and the students of Future Prowess Islamic Foundation School before morning assembly.  UNHCR/Rahima Gambo

In the decade since its inception, the school has swelled from 36 students to 540. Desperate for an education, thousands more children have added their names to its waiting list. In 2016, Mustapha opened a second school just a few kilometres away from the first. Eighty-eight children, all of whom have fled conflict in the region, walk through its classroom doors each day.

Mustaphas work in the region also includes negotiating the release of hostages. When the 21 young women who had been held captive for more than two years were released, Mustapha was there. He had been instrumental in securing their freedom  as well as the release of 82 additional Chibok girls in May 2017.

Mustapha and his volunteer group of educators know the risks they face, but their work is too important not to soldier on. This school promotes peace, Mustapha said. It is a place where every child matters, he added. These children shall be empowered, empowered in such a way that they can stand on their own.

In addition to his education work, Mustapha has demonstrated a commitment to helping all parts of society affected by conflict. His support was instrumental in setting up a cooperative for widows, providing much-needed support for nearly 600 women in Maiduguri.

UNHCRs Nansen Refugee Award honours extraordinary service to the forcibly displaced, and names Eleanor Roosevelt, Graca Machel and Luciano Pavarotti among its laureates. The 2017 ceremony will be held on 2 October in Geneva, Switzerland.

Note to Editors

Media contacts

For media inquiries and to arrange interview with the 2017 Nansen Refugee Award Winner please contact:

Dakar/Abuja: Romain Desclous, +221 77 786 396 385, [email protected]

Geneva: Babar Baloch, +41 59 513 9549, [email protected].

Geneva: Stephen Pattison, +41 79500 8774, [email protected]

Norwegian Refugee Council: Michelle Delaney, +47 941 65 579, [email protected]

For photos and b-roll of the Nansen 2017 winner and further case studies, please see: http://www.unhcr.org/nansen-media-2017

About UNHCRs Nansen Refugee Award:

UNHCRs Nansen Refugee Award recognizes extraordinary humanitarian work on behalf of refugees, internally displaced or stateless people. The award includes a commemorative medal and a US$150,000 monetary prize. In close consultation with UNHCR, the laureate uses the monetary prize to fund a project that complements their existing work.

The Nansen Refugee Award program is funded in partnership with the Norwegian Refugee Council, the Swiss Government, The Norwegian Government and the IKEA Foundation.

ABOUT THE #WITHREFUGEES CAMPAIGN

The #WithRefugees Campaign and its petition aim to build public empathy and support for refugees and ask governments to act with shared responsibility for people forced to flee their homes. The petition calls on governments to ensure that every refugee child gets an education, every refugee family has somewhere safe to live and every refugee can work or learn new skills to contribute to their community. The petition can be signed at www.withrefugees.org.

About UNHCR:

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established on December 14, 1950, by the United Nations General Assembly. UNHCR safeguards the rights and well-being of refugees and stateless people. In more than six decades, it has helped tens of millions of people restart their lives. UNHCR is on the front lines of the worlds major humanitarian crises, including those in north-eastern Nigeria, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Central African Republic, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Over a million Rohingya refugees have fled violence in Myanmar in successive waves of displacement since the early 1990s. Follow the crisis here.

The Rohingya are a stateless Muslim minority in Myanmar. The latest exodus began on 25 August 2017, when violence broke out in Myanmars Rakhine State, driving more than 742,000 to seek refuge in Bangladesh. Most arrived in the first three months of the crisis. An estimated 12,000 reached Bangladesh during the first half of 2018. The vast majority reaching Bangladesh are women and children, and more than 40 per cent are under age 12. Many others are elderly people requiring additional aid and protection. They have nothing and need everything.

See also: Rohingya Refugee Emergency at a Glance

Nearly all who arrived during the influx have sought shelter in and around the refugee settlements of Kutupalong and Nayapara in Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar district. Some have joined relatives there. The enormous scale of the influx is putting immense pressure on the Bangladeshi host community and existing facilities and services.

They burnt our house and drove us out by shooting. We walked for three days through the jungle. Mohammed, who fled to Bangladesh with his family of seven, including a baby born along the way

New spontaneous settlements sprouted overnight, raising concerns over the lack of adequate shelter, water and sanitation, access to basic services, and general protection considerations such as safety for women and girls. The Kutupalong refugee settlement has grown to become the largest of its kind in the world, with more than 600,000 people living in an area of just 13 square kilometres, stretching infrastructure and services to their limits.

The Bangladesh government has responded generously throughout the latest crisis. Local Bangladeshi villages have also taken in the new arrivals. They spared no effort to help, straining their already limited resources.

The humanitarian response in Bangladesh remains focused on meeting the massive humanitarian needs and on mitigating the impact of the seasonal monsoon rains. However, additional international support is urgently needed to step up the assistance from purely humanitarian and day-to-day support towards addressing medium-term challenges, including resilience, education, registration, and programmes to protect the most vulnerable refugees  including children, women and persons with specific needs.



What is UNHCR doing to help?

Together with our partners, we are working in support of the Bangladesh government to respond to the massive humanitarian needs.

In the opening days, weeks and months of the crisis, UNHCR airlifted more than 1,500 metric tons of emergency life-saving aid to Bangladesh  including blankets, plastic sheets, sleeping mats, family tents, plastic rolls, kitchen sets, jerry cans and buckets.

Together with our partners, we are also helping the government to develop new sites that can safely accommodate refugees. This includes funding a road to facilitate construction and refugee access, supporting site planning, building latrines and wells, improving the water and sanitation facilities and distributing shelter materials.

In an effort to improve sanitation and access to drinkable water, we have built thousands of latrines and water points for the refugees, thereby mitigating the risks of health problems such as acute watery diarrhoea.

UNHCR is working to mainstream refugee protection in all refugee settlements. With its partners, it is developing a referral system and safe spaces for survivors of gender-based violence. We are also enhancing efforts to identify and refer children at risk for the appropriate support.

UNHCR has increased its presence in the field through the deployment of emergency teams and relief specialists in different sectors. We have 300 staff in Bangladesh, including 208 national colleagues. We will continue to boost our presence and operations to match the scale and complexity of this still fluid and evolving refugee crisis.

On 16 March 2018, the UN and its partners launched a Joint Response Plan (JRP) for the Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis calling for US$951 million to continue delivering lifesaving assistance from March to December 2018. As of early August 2018, the JRP remains just 32 per cent funded. UNHCR is appealing for US$238.8 million as part of its Supplementary Appeal for 2018 to continue to respond to the needs of hundreds of thousands of refugees.

To find the latest documents and figures on the Rohingya situation, please visit our Data Portal. The Operational Data Portal is a partner coordination tool for refugee situations provided by UNHCR.

Monsoon response 

UNHCR rushed additional aid to Bangladesh to prepare refugees and host communities for the monsoon rains, which fall between May and September, increasing the risk of floods and landslides. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have found shelter in Coxs Bazar district  one of the wettest areas of the country. Humanitarian partners estimate that up to 200,000 Rohingya refugees could be at risk during the monsoon season. Many live on rugged, undulating terrain prone to landslides and flooding and are in urgent need of relocation.

Among them, some 41,000 refugees live in areas deemed at highest risk of landslides. By mid-August 2018, more than 24,000 of them had been relocated by UNHCR to safer areas.

UNHCR has also equipped more than 80,000 refugee families with upgraded shelter kits, which include bamboo poles, ropes, shelter-grade tarpaulins, sandbags, and tools. The Bangladesh government, supported by UNHCR and its partners, have added 32 kilometres of brick roads and footpaths, 91 kilometres of drainage pipes, and has constructed 45 kilometres of steps across the settlement. Sixty-three kilometres of retaining walls and structures have been built. Ninety-four kilometres of drainage have been completed or repaired, and 2,324 meters of bridges assembled. UNHCR has also strategically prepositioned 116 storage containers with emergency aid and upgraded 20 community buildings and facilities in the Bangladeshi host communities.

Responding to the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh
Activities at the camp included theatre, music, art, team-building and sports.  UNHCR/Nareg Dekermenjian

The still waters and stunning landscape of Lake Sevan in Armenia make it a popular beach destination for tourists. But this year it also became the setting for a summer camp that helped 40 displaced young people from Syria, Iraq and Nagorno-Karabakh find confidence, opportunities and friends in their new home.

Set up by YMCA NGO Vardenis to promote social and cultural integration, the two-week-long camp also worked to improve the emotional and psychological wellbeing of displaced and refugee youth. Activities included theatre, music, art, team-building and sports.

I had never been to Lake Sevan before, says Maral, a Syrian girl who attended the summer camp. What I liked most was swimming in the lake with my new friends, and our leader Nareg who was protecting us from the waves. I feel at home in Armenia and I am honoured to be part of my new homeland.

"I feel at home in Armenia."

Despite the trauma and difficulties that many participants had already experienced in their young lives, their resilience, optimism and determination shone through.

I made many friends at camp, says Aram, a boy displaced from the landlocked mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh, where conflict escalated in April 2016. We were similar and different at the same time  similar with our stories of having lost our homes, and different with our language, traditions and culture.

Varditer Hambardzumyan, director of YMCA Vardenis NGO, says the summer camp gave children like Maral and Aram crucial life-skills for the future. These, she says, will make a positive impact on the children, leading them to a dignified future with self-confidence, respect towards other and a sense of solidarity.

Displaced and refugee youth gathered at the spectacular Lake Sevan.  UNHCR/Nareg Dekermenjian

Displaced and refugee youth take part in morning exercises.  UNHCR/Nareg Dekermenjian

Displaced and refugee youth gather to plant trees.  UNHCR/Haig Siserian

Children debate, relax and interact together at the camp.  UNHCR/Haig Siserian

UNHCR's Representative in Armenia, Christoph Bierwirth, was in the audience on the final day when the young campers gave an impressive performance of Armenian songs, traditional dances and pantomime.

Seeing so many young people from different backgrounds and places of origin, young local Armenians and displaced youth from Syria, Iraq and Nagorno-Karabakh working, debating, relaxing and interacting together offers a sign of hope and shows that integration can work, if all are ready to engage, he says.

At the end of the camp, the children received certificates of acknowledgement from UNHCR and awards for creativity and talent, intelligence and enthusiasm, mobilisation and leadership skills. But they are not the only ones to benefit.

The time we spent at the YMCA camp will remain unforgettable, says Nareg, a camp leader from Australia. I heard the testimonies of the campers, and I am impressed by their spirit and strength. I am now full of empathy towards refugees in the world, I now feel different and think differently.
Mumbai 26/11 terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's political aspirations have taken flight. The global terrorist is all set to foray into Pakistan's political arena with Jammat-ud-Dawa set to contest 2018 general polls.

By Press Trust of India: Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah will foray into Pakistan's political scene by contesting the 2018 general elections, a senior member of the outfit said, a day after its candidate finished third in a crucial by-poll.

Last month, Jamaat-ud-Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack , announced that it was launching the Milli Muslim League .

advertisement

Sheikh Yaqoob, a JuD-backed candidate who was defeated by ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's wife Kuslsoom from a parliamentary seat that fell vacant after he was disqualified by the Supreme Court, said the new front "will field candidates in every constituency of the country in next year's election."

Yaqoob wanted to contest yesterday's election from Milli Muslim League, launched just before the NA-120 by-poll, but could not do so as the Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to register it as a political party. Yaqoob was placed in 2012 on a US Treasury sanctions list of those designated as leaders of terrorist organisations, The New York Times reported.

"We have got a very good response in NA-120. It was our first election and people have welcomed us," said Yaqoob, who contested as an independent candidate. "We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies. India, United States and Israel and at the same time help them in solving their basic livelihood problems," he said.

The JuD formed Milli Muslim League at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti-terrorism act. The JuD has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) War hero Arjan Singh, who led Indias Air Force against Pakistan in 1965, was today cremated with full state honours, as fighter jets paid homage to him in a flypast and guns boomed a last salute to the only Marshal of the force.

The body of the 98-year-old legendary aviator was consigned to the flames by his son Arvind amid chantings of Sikh hymns at the Brar Square crematorium in Delhi Cantonment in the presence of several senior political leaders and the top brass of the Indian military.

advertisement

A 17-gun salute was given in his honour while the IAF paid homage to the iconic hero of the 1965 war with a flypast of Sukhoi Su 30 fighter jets in the missing man formation -- an aerial manoeuvre to show respect to a departed military leader.

Mi-17 V5 helicopters flying in a vic formation and trooping IAF colours carried out another flypast in honour of Singh, who died of a cardiac arrest on Saturday.

"End of an Era-Last Salute to the Brave Air warrior and a great leader," the IAF tweeted.

The national flag flew at half-mast at all government buildings in the national capital in honour of Singh.

Earlier, Singhs body, wrapped in the Indian tricolour, was taken to the Brar Square crematorium from his central Delhi residence, 7 Kautilya Marg, on a gun carriage.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, BJP veteran L K Advani, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and Army chief General Bipin Rawat were among those present at the crematorium.

A number of former service chiefs, senior officials of the three services and Singhs family members also paid their tributes to the departed military icon at Brar Square.

One of the finest soldiers of India, Singh had led a young Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Singhs residence yesterday and paid glowing tributes to the war hero.

Singh is the only officer to have attained the highest rank of the Marshal of the Air Force, equivalent to the Armys five star field marshal, an honour given only to Sam Manekshaw and KM Cariappa.

Singh was a fearless and exceptional pilot who played a major role in transforming the IAF into one of the most potent air forces globally and the fourth biggest in the world, former colleagues said.

Though known as a man of few words, Singh had deep knowledge of air power and applied it to a wide spectrum of areas, said Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Kapil Kak, a former IAF vice chief.

advertisement

He said Singh had assiduously led the IAF during the 1965 war and denied success to Pakistans air force though it was better equipped with American support. PTI JC/MPB VJ BDS

--- ENDS ---
The University of Texas at San Antonios arts and humanities programs have been ranked No. 66 among the nations public universities.

(Sept. 18, 2017) -- The University of Texas at San Antonios arts and humanities programs have been ranked No. 66 among the nations public universities, according to the 2018 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Arts and Humanities Ranking. The annual rankings measure world-class universities with programs in art, performing arts, languages, history, philosophy, theology, architecture and archaeology.

Drawing upon the methodology for Times Higher Educations annual World University Rankings, the publications arts and humanities ranking is based on key performance indicators in five areas: teaching, research, citations, international outlook and industry income.

UTSA scored particularly high in the citations category, a measurement that evaluates an institutions research influence by counting the number of times that studies by an institutions researchers are cited in global scholarly publications.

The UTSA College of Liberal and Fine Arts is home to world-renowned faculty and academically talented students who conduct high impact research in a variety of areas, said Dan Gelo, dean of the UTSA College of Liberal and Fine Arts. This ranking is an affirmation of the impact that their teaching and research have in Texas, the nation and world.

Overall, Times Higher Education ranked 400 arts and humanities programs in more than 30 countries. One hundred-three U.S. colleges and universities, including six Texas institutions, made this years list.

Texas institutions included in the 2018 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Arts and Humanities Ranking include:

UT-Austin (#66)

Rice University (#151-175)

Texas A&M University (#251-300)

Baylor University (#301-400)

UT-Dallas (#301-400)

UTSA (#301-400)

With an enrollment of nearly 6,000 students and academic programs spanning 11 departments, the College of Liberal and Fine Arts is one of UTSAs largest and most academically diverse colleges. Home to world-class faculty, the college contributes to the education of virtually every UTSA undergraduate student by offering much of the universitys core curriculum in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Additionally, the college is home to three research centers: the Bank of America Child and Adolescent Policy Research Institute, the Center for Archaeological Research and the Institute for Health Disparities Research.
French to Receive Distinguished Alumna Award from UW School of Nursing

Johnna French

Johnna T. French has been named the 2017 Distinguished Alumna for the University of Wyomings Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. She will receive her award Friday, Oct. 27, at the College of Health Sciences Distinguished Alumni Reception.

French graduated from UWs online RN-BSN Completion Program in 2011. She is currently a maternal child home visiting nurse with Albany County Public Health in Laramie.

Her nominators recommended her for the award based on her work in and passion for public health nursing, and her outstanding involvement and contributions to the community.

After earning her associate degree in nursing from the University of South Dakota in 1993, French worked as an office nurse at Laramies Spring Creek Family Medicine. Ann Marie Hart, a UW nursing faculty member, was a family nurse practitioner student during that time when she first met French.

I was extremely impressed with Johnna as a primary care nurse, Hart says. She functioned very autonomously and was respected by patients and physicians as an innovative nurse in a primary care practice -- ahead of her time, as the profession now promotes an expanded role for the registered nurse (RN) in primary care.

French then took on a variety of nurse positions, from head office nurse to a fertility center in vitro fertilization coordinator, across three states -- Idaho, Tennessee and Wyoming -- while enrolled in UWs online RN-BSN Completion Program. She graduated in 2011 with her bachelors degree in nursing while working for Family Physicians of Laramie.

After completing her degree, French found her nursing niche as a maternal child home visiting nurse with Albany County Public Health. Her exuberance and love for public health nursing help recruit young nurses into the field.

Frenchs passion for public health nursing permeates those around her, says School of Nursing Associate Dean Susan Steiner. She shares that passion with UW nursing students, both as preceptor and in mentoring sessions.

In 2012, the School of Nursing began speed mentoring sessions, in which alumni shared information about careers with students in rotational, timed formats. French, who is one of the first alumni volunteers, helped populate every mentoring panel, recruiting many students into the public health profession.

Frenchs passion for community is evident in both practice and personal life, Steiner says. As a member of Zonta (a global organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy), she continually works to better the community.

French also served as the Laramie Breastfeeding Coalition director, Head Start Advisory Board member and lactation counselor.

French serves as a UW School of Nursing capstone preceptor. She also took on the vice presidency for the inaugural board of the UW Alumni Association Nursing Chapter (UWAANC); staffed nursing alumni tables at the Homecoming open house and UW Nursing Career Fair events; and spoke to graduating students to encourage membership in UWAANC.
UW Trustees Approve Funding for Veterans Center, IT Projects

Renovation of a section of the Wyoming Union to serve as the Veterans Services Center and upgrades to campus information technology infrastructure will proceed following action by the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees last week.

The board voted to spend up to $433,000 from the universitys new special projects reserve for the Veterans Services Center project, augmented by at least $294,000 in private donations. A section of the third floor of the Wyoming Union will be renovated to allow the center to move from its current location in Knight Hall.

Trustees also voted to spend $1.64 million from the special projects reserve to upgrade UWs high-performance computing cluster; $860,000 from that reserve to replace the universitys data storage system; and a total of $1.12 million from the special projects and division reserves to upgrade the emergency cooling system for the Information Technology Buildings data center.

The Veterans Services Center project will create a high-quality, accessible and modern space for UWs growing veterans programs, including a computer lab, study area, lounge, conference room, coordinators office and kitchen. The current space in Knight Hall has become inadequate.

The $433,000 expenditure -- which would be reduced with further private contributions beyond the $294,000 received to date -- comes from mandatory student fees allocated to the Wyoming Union held in the universitys special projects reserve.

The IT-related upgrades, meanwhile, are projects that have been planned for several years and are funded largely from UW Information Technology reserves pulled into the special projects reserve.

On other matters, the Board of Trustees last week:

-- Approved the renaming of UWs Red House, former home of the Honors Program, to the Native American Education, Research and Cultural Center. The grand opening of the center is scheduled Friday, Sept. 29.

-- Received an update from Huron Consulting Group, which has been selected to conduct a study of UWs enrollment capacity, including the possibility of offering reduced tuition rates for some out-of-state students.

-- Received a preliminary report from KSQ Design, a national planning, architecture, engineering and interior design company that specializes in campus planning and student life facilities. The firm is working with UW to develop a 10-year housing plan to upgrade its outdated residence halls and increase enrollment, two goals identified in the universitys new strategic plan.
India, Japan and United States also focused on the increasing security threat and instability in the Korean Peninsula.

By Geeta Mohan: After the summit level meeting between India and Japan, the trilateral meeting among India, Japan and United States also focused on the increasing security threat and instability in the Korean Peninsula.

The trilateral foreign ministerial meeting of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj with her American counterpart Rex Tillerson and Japanese counterpart focused on various regional and global issues but the main issue remained "maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues were exchanged".

advertisement

The Ministry of External Affairs statement on the meeting that was held on Tuesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York said, "The Ministers emphasized the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes. On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognized international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined".

All three nations have greatly been stressed either by the actions of DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) or the territorial aggressiveness of China. Hence, the unanimous voice in ensuring respect for international order.

While all leaders condemned the action of North Korea, India reiterated its stand of looking at the root cause and highlighted nations responsible for such capability that North Korea possesses.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj "deplored DPRK's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable", the press statement read.

Earlier on Tuesday, US flew four stealth fighter jets and two bombers over the Korean peninsula calling it "mock bombing drills". These were the first such flights since the powerful nuclear test conducted by North Korea which has been under tremendous sanctions.

But despite the American move and the hard sanctions, North Korea remains undeterred. Its Foreign Ministry in a statement said, "it is a foolish dream to hope that the sanctions could work with the DPRK while the sanctions have failed to stop it from becoming a full-fledged nuclear weapons state and making rapid progress in the building of an economic power for more than half a century."

--- ENDS ---
Replying to Pakistan at the UN Nations Human Rights Council, India slammed Islamabad for being the 'face of international terrorism' and of offering 'factually incorrect and misleading statements' pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir.

India called Pakistan the global face of terrorism at the UNHRC session (PTI file photo for representation)

By Geeta Mohan: India on Monday tore into Pakistan's statement at the 36th United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, and called Islamabad the "face of international terrorism".

Exercising India's 'right of reply' to Pakistan's speech, Indian diplomat from the Permanent Mission of India in Geneva, Dr. Vishnu Reddy spoke strongly against "Pakistan's unsolicited and unwarranted comments pertaining to the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir are factually incorrect and absolutely misleading. We outrightly reject them."

advertisement

Reddy also spelt out the biggest challenge faced by the region. "The foremost challenge to the stability of the region is the scourge of terrorism. Pakistan's malicious attempt to hide its interference behind the facade of domestic discontent carries no credibility with the world", he said.

Hitting back at Islamabad, New Delhi also raised two issues of concern, Pakistan-backed terrorism in the Kashmir Valley and human rights violations in Balochistan, an issue that India has been raising at all international platforms.

Reddy said, "Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is run by a 'deep state' and has become an epicenter of terrorism. Its [Islamabad's] human rights record in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Baluchistan is deplorable."

India went on to apprise the UNHRC of the evidence on cross-border terrorism that New Delhi has shared with Islamabad in order to get the latter to dismantle terror infrastructure.

"Pakistan has been the face of international terrorism. Even the Foreign Minister of Pakistan has admitted that internationally banned outfits, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), are operating from within Pakistan. In the wake of growing international concern, Pakistan must shut down its terror manufacturing units and bring the perpetrators of terrorism to justice", India's Vishnu Reddy said.

India has been rebutting Pakistan's statements on Kashmir not only in Geneva but also in New York and every other fora where Pakistan tries to 'highlight' issues to 'mislead' the international community.

India maintains that "Pakistan [should] do some deep introspection and focus its energies on improving the human rights situation and dismantling the terror infrastructure in Pakistan and and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir".

DO WATCH | External Affairs Minister Swaraj at the UN General Assembly last year

--- ENDS ---


Channeling the timeless glamour of classic Hollywood, the ladies of FANTASY will debut the shows 2018 calendar, Black & White and Nude All Over, on Tuesday, Oct. 24 (Pictured: Mariah Nieslanik Rivera  Photo credit: Oscar Picazo).

The release of the calendar coincides with the shows 18th anniversary at Luxor Hotel and Casino, where FANTASY has remained the top Las Vegas revue for much of its run. The Black & White and Nude All Over calendar was photographed by renowned photographer and stylist Oscar Picazo, who shot the stunning showgirls in timeless black and white imagery.

This years calendar is classically sexy, said Anita Mann, producer and director of FANTASY. Oscar Picazo beautifully styled each of our shows performers like glamorous Hollywood movie stars, and the photographs are absolutely mind blowing.

The 2018 Black & White and Nude All Over calendar, priced at $20, will be available for purchase at various retail locations throughout Luxor, including the Atrium Showroom, and on FANTASYs website, fantasyluxor.com. The ladies of FANTASY will host a series of calendar signings leading up to the holiday season, making the 2018 calendar the perfect gift or stocking stuffer.

To join the Black & White and Nude All Over interest list before the calendar goes on sale, email showgirl@fantasyluxor.com with the subject line Calendar Exclusive.

With the release of the calendar, FANTASY will also be donating a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Rohingya Muslim refugee children wait for medical treatment at the Jalpatoli refugee camp in the 'no mans land' between Myanmar and Bangladesh in Gumdhum district. (Photo: AFP/Dominique Faget)

Rohingya Muslim refugee children wait for medical treatment at the Jalpatoli refugee camp in the 'no mans land' between Myanmar and Bangladesh in Gumdhum district. (Photo: AFP/Dominique Faget)

More than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims have now arrived in Bangladesh from their Buddhist dominated homeland to escape violence that the United Nations says could be ethnic cleansing.

According to the UN, more than half of the refugees are children, and more than 1,100 have arrived alone after trekking mud roads and hills for days.

"That number could rise beyond one million by the end of the year if the influx continues, including about 600,000 children, according to UN agencies," Mark Pierce, the Bangladesh chief of Save the Children charity, said.

The UN has also said it was possible that all the estimated 1.1 million Rohingya could flee Rakhine.

Bangladesh and relief agencies are struggling to cope with new arrivals sheltering on roadsides, hills and open spaces close to existing camps around Cox's Bazar, which borders Myanmar.

Aid agencies have said thousands of Rohingya were half-starving and a major health emergency could break out.

Bangladesh has announced it will build 14,000 shelters for some 400,000 refugees but has said it was also readying a desolate island where many could be relocated.

Pierce said his group was particularly worried about the traumatised children and orphans who have arrived alone in Bangladesh.

"This is a real concern as these children are in an especially vulnerable position, being at increased risk of exploitation and abuse, as well as things like child trafficking,? he said.

"Some children have witnessed violence and killing. Some have been shot at, others have seen their homes set on fire. Some have reportedly watched their parents being killed," he said.

The charity said it is setting up safe spaces in the camps for vulnerable children.

They would receive 24-hour support and protection while attempts are made to find family members, it said.

Bangladesh authorities say they are also preparing special measures to care for Rohingya orphans.
US President Donald Trump's keenness to underline a series of terror attacks in Britain has drawn stern rebukes from Prime Minister Theresa May AFP/Mandel NGAN

US President Donald Trump's keenness to underline a series of terror attacks in Britain has drawn stern rebukes from Prime Minister Theresa May AFP/Mandel NGAN

WASHINGTON: British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted a long-awaited state visit by Donald Trump will go ahead as planned despite a diplomatic spat triggered by the US president's comments after a terror attack in London.

Speaking to ABC News from Downing Street in an interview that aired Sunday (Sep 17), she added that London was in talks with Internet giants Google and Facebook about "doing more" to assist authorities in tracking extremists using the web to plan attacks, an issue she said she would take up at the UN General Assembly next week.

After an explosion in the London subway early Friday injured more than 20 people, Trump on Twitter blamed "sick and demented people who were in the sights of Scotland Yard."

Britons expressed outrage at the president's suggestion that British authorities had advance knowledge about the attackers. May herself told journalists Friday that "I never think it's helpful for anybody to speculate on what is an ongoing investigation."

Trump's keenness to underline a series of attacks in Britain has led to repeated outcry across the Atlantic that has helped indefinitely delay his much-vaunted state visit.

But in her ABC interview, May made clear the planned visit is still on.

"Her Majesty the Queen issued the invitation," she said. "The president has accepted it. It's just a question of getting dates to - and sorting out the logistics."

May said the point of the historic "special relationship" between the two countries was that "when we do disagree we're able to say so - and pretty bluntly."

As an example, she cited the sharp differences over the Paris climate change agreement. "I've made very clear I was dismayed when America decided to pull out of that," she said, adding that she hoped the US administration would be "able to find a way for America to come back into the agreement."

After reports that some European officials believed the US might return to the agreement, the White House said Saturday that it would do so only if it could negotiate more favorable terms.

May also emphasized the need to block terrorists from using the Internet for planning attacks and "for the spread of extremism, of hatred, of propaganda."

She said British authorities were working with Internet giants like Facebook and Google "about doing more."

Those companies and others, including YouTube and Twitter, have formed a Global Internet Forum to Combat Terrorism, working with governments and other groups.

Asked, if she agreed with a tweet from Trump urging a tougher travel ban to curb terrorism, May said, "I think what is important is that we're able to have the powers to look into people, to identify people who may be wanting to cause us harm." And then to act accordingly.
South Korean tourists in Hoi An ancient town

The seminar focused on issues such as trends of RoK tourists; strategy to promote tourism in line with cultural heritage sites, ancient town of Hoi An; sustainable development of cultural heritage tourism destinations 

Mr. Ngo Hoai Chung, Deputy Director of VNAT said the growth rate of international tourists to Vietnam reached 10.2 percent per year in the period of 2001-2016.

In 2016, Vietnam welcomed 10 million international visitors, a growth rate of 26 percent compared to 2015; total revenue from tourism sector was VND 400,000 billion, equal to US$ 18 billion.

Recent years, Korea has been considered as one of the leading tourism markets to Vietnam.

If 53,452 Korean visitors had travelled to Vietnam in 2000, this number increased to 1,543,883 arrivals in 2016. In the first eight months of this year, 1,500,811 passengers have paid their visit to Vietnam, an increase of nearly 50 percent over the same period last year, becoming the second largest passenger market travel to Vietnam.

Over 3,800 South Korean tourists visited Quang Nam in 2010, accounting for 0.81 percent of the total international visitors; however, by 2016, this number increased to 83,000, accounting for 8.2 percent of the total number of international visitors in the province.

In the first six months of 2017, the central province welcomed more than 88,000 South Korean visitors, exceeding the total number of South Korean visitors to Quang Nam in 2016.

Mr. Phan Van Tu, Director of Quang Nam Tourism Information and Promotion Center said that Korean visitors had been increasing proving that the province has strengthened advertisement activities, roadshows programs, tourism promotion conferences; especially, more and more direct flights connecting Da Nang International Airport with some cities in South Korea had been put into service.

Every week, there are about 80 flights from South Korea to Da Nang and vice versa. This has created a favorable opportunity for South Korean visitors to easily access destinations in the central provinces of Vietnam.

The seminar is a great opportunity for delegates, business representatives of Quang Nam province in particular, central provinces of Vietnam in general to exchange information and have more knowledge about the South Korean tourism market.
The benchmark VN-Index confirmed a steady uptrend with a forth consecutive rally week, but suspicion lingers in the context of modest liquidity and dominant role of large-cap stocks.- Photo ndh.vn

Easing investor worries about a possible correction after a long rally, the VN-Index hit a new 10-year high at 806.32 points on Thursday, the highest level since February 15, 2008. It decreased slightly on Friday on exchange-traded funds (ETFs) trading but still closed the week up 0.6 per cent at 805.82 points.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index also increased 0.54 per cent for the week, closing Friday at 104.49 points.

The market started the week in the negative zone under rising profit-taking pressure but quickly regained in the following sessions thanks to growth of heavyweight stocks.

Major stocks such as Masan Group (MSN), Vietcombank (VCB), Petrolimex (PLX), PV Gas (GAS), VinGroup (VIC), Hoa Phat Group (HPG), Bao Viet Holdings (BVH), Vinamilk (VNM) and Saigon Beer-Alcohol-Beverage (SAB) took turns to lead the market.

However, liquidity declined and remained modest, even when two FTSE and V.N.M ETFs conducted their portfolio trading on Friday. This indicates cautious psychology among investors.

An average of about 187.4 million shares worth over VND4 trillion (US$177.8) were traded in the two markets per session, down 30 per cent in volume and 13 per cent in value compared to the previous week.

Although the market had a week of rallying, the divergence remained wide along with weakening cash flows and low liquidity, said Tran Duc Anh, a stock analyst at Bao Viet Securities Co.

In fact, the recent uptrend has been strongly supported by positive movement of large-cap stocks. If the market liquidity makes no improvement, the market will likely enter a short-term downtrend, Anh wrote in a note.

The VN-Index has been on a steady upswing, with growth of 5.8 per cent in the last four weeks and over 21 per cent since the beginning of this year.

According to analysts on the financial website vietstock.vn, the VN-Index is heading for a new level of 815 points. Growth of stock in financial services, natural resources, real estate and construction and food-beverage sectors are exptected to continue to prop up the market.

Though the macro-economic condition is backing a market uptrend, analysts at BIDV Securities Co (BSC) have warned of negative impact of foreign trading on the local market.

Though in doubt, the VN-Index will likely continue heading to new highs next week with rotation of large-cap growth. However, the market risk will also increase at the same time if it cannot attract domestic investors and foreign investors continue their net selling activity, BSCs analysts wrote in a report.

Foreign traders concluded the second week of net selling with a value of VND333 billion last week, lifting the two-week net sell value to VND407 billion in the two markets.

Vietcombank (VCB) topped the most sold last week with a value of over VND214 billion, followed by VinGroup (VIC) and Vinamilk (VNM) with over VND100 billion each.
Since 2016, the company is leading the Vietnamese ice-cream market

However, the specific date of the listing has yet to be disclosed.

Previously, KIDO Corporation (KDC) planned to list KDF on UpCom in the second quarter of 2017 after the completion of its initial public offering (IPO) in April. Notably, KDF put 11.2 million shares, equalling 20 per cent of the companys chartered capital, at the initial price of VND52,000 ($2.3).

The IPO received attention from a lot of multinational investors. Many investors expressed willingness to purchase KDFs shares at VND60,000 ($2.6) apiece, higher than the corporations offering price.

A Malaysian investment fund wanted to buy 100 per cent of KDF for $200 million. In addition, a Japanese company also expressed intention to buy 35 per cent of KDF for VND60,000 ($2.6) a share, a much higher price than the expected listing price of VND52,000 ($2.3).

However, Tran Le Nguyen, deputy chairman of mother company KDC said that the IPOs target is to attract more individual and institutional investors, so they did not accept the above offers. After the IPO, KDC will only hold 65 per cent of KDFs chartered capital.

KDFs listing on UpCom is expected to attract both domestic and foreign investors due to its development potential.

Notably, KDF has become the leader of the Vietnamese ice cream industry with a 35 per cent market share in 2016 with its flagship brands Merino and Celano, which take up 19 and 13 per cent, respectively.

Besides, in 2016, KDF started expanding its frozen food manufacturing facilities, which is considered a lucrative sector with the increasing of four-fold in the scale of the frozen food supply chain in Vietnam for the past decade.

KDF was founded in July, 2003, as a product of KDCs acquisition of Wall's from Unilever. Following this, KDF has inherited the international-standard ice cream manufacturing system, including the most modern ice cream factory in Southeast Asia.

KDF owns two factories, namely Cu Chi ice cream factory and Bac Ninh frozen food factory with a total designed capacity of 50 million litres per year, including 25-25 million litres of ice cream and yogurt per year.

KDFs exponential growth in recent years is expected to attract investors. In 2016, KDF's revenue reached $61.28 million, increasing 31 per cent on-year. Its before- and after-tax profits reached $7.72 and $6.27 million, signifying increases of 77 and 85 per cent, respectively.
An online advocacy group in New Delhi says government officials ordered shutdowns 42 times between January and August in 2017. That compares with six times in all of 2014, when Narendra Modi first came to power.

Internet shutdowns have escalated sharply under the Modi government (Photo for representation)

By Reuters: First he tried messaging friends, but WhatsApp was down. Then, the credit card readers at his clothing store weren't working. Ride-sharing apps were offline too.

Harsh Madhok, who runs a clothing business in Jaipur, a city of three million people, had read about internet shutdowns elsewhere in India.

Now he was in the middle of one in his city in central India, as authorities tried to damp down unrest following a traffic incident that led to clashes between police and locals.

advertisement

"It's very frustrating," said Madhok, 45, of the Sept. 9 shutdown. "These things leave you feeling like you don't know what's going on."

Under the rule of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Internet shutdowns have escalated sharply.

According to a database maintained by the Software Freedom Law Centre, an online advocacy group in New Delhi, government officials ordered shutdowns 42 times between January and August in 2017. That compares with six times in all of 2014, when Modi first came to power.

This year the shutdowns were spread over 11 states, compared to just one in 2012.

The disconnections, which state governments have said are necessary for maintaining public order, typically happen without official explanation.

They have followed farmer agitations, protests by a minority community calling for government jobs, and public violence sparked by a Facebook post.

IMPACT ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

The frequency of the shutdowns has raised concerns that internal security is being used as a justification to clamp down on freedom of expression. That refrain has been heard more frequently since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), won elections in 2014 with an emphasis on security.

"If citizens are using the internet to mobilize themselves, then how is shutting down the internet any different from suppressing dissent?" an editorial in Mint asked in July.

Until this year, shutdowns were implemented under colonial-era curfew laws that were used as the basis for rules requiring internet service providers to shut off connections at the request of any government agency.

In early August, the Ministry of Communications issued new explicit rules that formalized the power of states and the central government to block the internet.

"These rules are among the first of their kind in a democracy," said Raman Jit Singh Chima, policy director of Access Now, a US-based organization that works on technology policy and digital rights worldwide. "How they're used, and their scale - they seem to be creating an architecture where blocking is legitimized," Chima said.

"What's changed, I think, is that officials have greater knowledge of the power they can utilise," said Apar Gupta, a lawyer who handles free-speech cases before the Supreme Court.

advertisement

SHARP RISE IN SHUTDOWNS

Other countries, such as Egypt, have also used internet shutdowns, and China controls the flow of online information through an extensive firewall.

However, analysts like Chima worry about the frequency of the shutdowns in India, which have risen sharply since Modi came to power.

From January 2012 - the date of the first shutdown recorded by the Software Freedom Law Centre (SFLC) - to May 2014, when the BJP swept out the ruling coalition headed by the Congress party, local and federal officials ordered 12 shutdowns.

Since Modi's election, 89 shutdowns have been ordered, with 74 at the behest of his party or its allies at the central, state and district levels, an analysis of SFLC data showed.

So far, the shutdowns have been met with little opposition, apart from frustration expressed by users like Madhok over the curtailing of online services.

"There's been no outcry about the shutdowns because it's perceived to be for the greater good," said Nitin Pai, the co-founder of the Takshashila Institution, a Bangalore think tank.

Nalin Kohli, a national spokesman for the BJP, said the shutdowns were acceptable in cases "where rumor-mongering or motivated misinformation could lead to the incitement of violence." He added: "It is not the norm, it is the exception."

advertisement

In Jaipur, the shutdown lasted two days. But disconnections can last hours, weeks, and even months.

In a June statement, Human Rights Watch said "the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir suspended mobile internet services in the Kashmir region from July to November" in 2016.

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the restrictions in the Kashmir, where 100 people have died in clashes since troops killed Burhan Wani in July 2016, had "the character of collective punishment."

In 2016, Gupta, the lawyer, argued before the Supreme Court on behalf of a law student who had earlier approached the Gujarat High Court to restrict internet shutdowns. The High Court disagreed, saying that officials used their powers responsibly.

The Supreme Court declined to hear the matter, letting the high court's verdict stand.

Here's a TV report on a shutdown in Jammu and Kashmir, from April 2017.

--- ENDS ---
Korean firms try to avoid double taxation while staying compliant Photo: Le Toan

Accounting for approximately 26 per cent of all foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam last year, Korean investment  which started in the 1990s  has transitioned from labour-intensive manufacturing to high value-added sectors such as power, real estate, and retail.

According to Ha Do, senior partner at KPMG in Vietnam, Korean investors are starting to pay greater attention to tax regulations with regards to corporate income tax (CIT), and are increasingly concerned about investment incentives and the health of the economic environment.

Korean subsidiaries and multinationals investing in Vietnam, whose transactions are often under scrutiny from the tax authorities when it comes to transfer pricing (TP) arrangements, are familiarising themselves with the details of Decree No.20/2017/ND-CP, which provides guidance on transfer pricing management of intra-group service charges, interest, payments for intangibles, and capital expenditures, among other transactions.

Along with the increased FDI, there is a rise in two-way trade, which naturally creates related-party transactions between the parent companies, affiliates, and subsidiaries. Determining appropriate arms length transfer prices of these transactions for tax purposes will not just be the job of the businesses themselves, but also the tax authorities in both jurisdictions, said Hoang Thuy Duong, partner in charge of Integrated International Tax at KPMG in Vietnam, on the sidelines of a briefing on TP and customs for Korean businesses in Vietnam in early September.

Duong pointed out new TP reporting and documentation requirements, which are now more complex and in line with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Developments (OECD) recommendations against base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS). A TP documentation package, which should now include a master file, local file, and a country-by-country report, is to be prepared before Vietnams annual CIT finalisation deadline. Should a TP audit be required, such a package is to be submitted within 15 working days upon request by the tax authorities.

Jung Goo Kang, vice president of the electronics and technology firm Elentec Co., Ltd.  which owns subsidiaries in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and is a main supplier for Samsung Vietnam  has experience in logging both Korean and Vietnamese TP audits. He told VIR that while the transfer pricing rules are the same in theory, the local regulations are more complicated in the sense that tax authorities in different countries do not follow the guidelines in precisely the same way.

Many of our Korean clients in Vietnam are concerned about double taxation and the uncertainty that follows due to differing views and audit practices maintained by the Vietnamese and Korean tax authorities, said Seung Mok Baek, a partner specialising in TP at KPMG in South Korea. TP audits conducted in Vietnam recently have been quite aggressive, and in many cases huge amounts of additional taxes were due as a result of these audits.

Korean firms experienced difficulties in solving double taxation issues through the Vietnamese local appeals process and Vietnam-Korea mutual agreement procedures (MAP)  mainly used as an international appeals process for the relief of double taxation occurring due to TP adjustments in recent years in the contracting states, Baek added.

In the opinion of Gil Won Kang, partner in charge of Global Transfer Pricing Services at KPMG in South Korea, since the introduction of BEPS, Korean firms in Vietnam are increasingly concerned about double taxation following TP tax audits. It is his hope that the Vietnamese tax authorities will take the concerns of foreign investors seriously through implementation of an APA (Advance Pricing Agreement, mainly used as a proactive measure to eliminate uncertainties regarding TP in future tax years) and MAP procedures.

As the new regulations have only come into force in 2017, it might take some time for the capacity building of tax officers. This is a complicated matter, Duong added.
Dang Thu Thao of Can Tho was crowned the 2014 Miss Vietnam Ocean.

The final round will take place in Ho Chi Minh City on October 28.

The winner will receive a cash prize of VND600 million, a crown worth VND3.2 billion and other valuable rewards.

Many minor titles, including Miss Ao dai, Miss Bikini, Miss Photogenic, Miss Perfect Skin, Miss Beautiful Hair, and Miss Fashion awards will aslo be offered at the contest

Launched in 2014, the 2nd edition of Miss Vietnam Ocean beauty contest aims to raise awareness of marine environmental issues.

Dang Thu Thao of the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho was winner of the 2014 Miss Vietnam Ocean.
As the property market in Dong Nai is once again on the rise, experts urge caution Photo: Le Toan

New wave of opportunities

Dong Nai, which covers an area of 5,900 square kilometres, is located right next to bustling Ho Chi Minh City. The province is well-connected with a network of national highways, ports, railways, and the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport. Thanks to its geographical advantages, Dong Nai has historically been a hotspot for foreign investments, which include real estate projects.

Reports from Savills Vietnam show that Dong Nai currently has 55 residential housing projects, with a total of 30,200 units and land plots for sale on both the primary and secondary market. Mega projects in Long Thanh and Nhon Trach wards, with a combined 2,100 land plot units, take up 46 per cent of the future supply in the province.

According to Su Ngoc Khuong, director of investment at Savills Vietnam, Dong Nai is now ready to return to the big picture. Residents and newcomers to Ho Chi Minh City are looking to move out of the congested city centre, and the neighbouring province has proven to be a great destination with its traffic connectivity and thriving urban areas.

This topic was discussed in depth last week at a talk named Real estate Investment in Dong Nai: Opportunities and Challenges, co-organised by VIR and Eximrs. At the event, industry experts shared their advice on how investors can capitalise on the new boom in Dong Nai properties.

Nguyen Thanh Lam, deputy director of the Dong Nai Department of Construction, advised investors to prioritise projects that are located near existing urban areas, including the city of Bien Hoa and nearby wards (Long Thanh, Long Khanh, and Trang Bom). Those with a longer investment horizon (between five and seven years) can branch out to the fringe areas of these urban clusters.

Its very important to think carefully before investing in projects near Long Thanh International Airport. About 21,000 hectares of land surrounding the airport have not been earmarked for development yet, and a bubble can burst very easily, Lam warned.

Le Hoang Chau, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association, has said that he considers Dong Nai the extended arm of Vietnams largest city. He advised property investors to monitor development updates on the Dau Giay Highway, which extends to the central province of Binh Thuan, and Cat Lai Bridge, which links District 2 with Dong Nais Nhon Trach ward and the Ho Chi Minh City metro lines.

Remaining vigilant

Despite their optimism about the new chapter of Dong Nai properties, experts still voiced their concerns about reckless speculation. In fact, the province is not new to such horror stories, as properties in its Nhon Trach ward already went through a boom-and-bust cycle 10 years ago.

Specifically, investors and developers at the time flocked into the ward, hoping that it would soon become a first- or second-tier city, complete with urban facilities. However, the plan fell through and to this day, Nhon Trach remains an agricultural ward, filled with a haunting slew of abandoned properties. Experts say it is important to not repeat the same mistakes this time.

Dishonest real estate agents have used lots of scamming methods to trick investors. They may blow up the price, overstate the amount of existing facilities, or even change the name of the project developers, said lawyer Lam Dang Phuc, deputy managing director of Nguyen Giap Law Firm.

Lam from the Dong Nai Department of Construction revealed that he recently received a complaint letter from 300 individuals, claiming that they had been conned in two real estate projects in the province. The investigation process is now underway, and Lam reminded all investors to have a thorough check on the projects legal status before signing any deals.

This advice is echoed by Tran Thi Cam Tu, CEO of Eximrs. Tu recommended investors to slow down, think rationally, and double-check all the claims made by real estate agents.

Experts also emphasised the importance of urban facilities such as schools, hospitals, supermarkets, and parks in drawing in investors.

Nguyen Minh Khang, acting managing director of LDG Group, said that the company had developed these facilities in Trang Bom ward before putting any real estate on sale.

Not only Dong Nai, but the entire real estate market in Vietnam needs honest and transparent dealers. There should be real people wishing to live in the province, not just reckless speculators, Khang said.
Frances McDormand is joined by (from left) Sam Rockwell, Martin McDonagh and Graham Broadbent at the Toronto premiere of 'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri'. (AFP/Rich Fury)

Frances McDormand is joined by (from left) Sam Rockwell, Martin McDonagh and Graham Broadbent at the Toronto premiere of 'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri'. (AFP/Rich Fury)

The rage-fuelled film stars Frances McDormand as a frustrated and grieving mother, Mildred, who antagonises police (Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell) while trying to call attention to a lack of progress in the hunt for her daughter's killer.

Months have passed without an arrest in the murder case, so she commissions three signs with controversial messages for police along a road leading into the fictional Missouri town.

But a backlash ensues. Mildred's friends and the freckle-faced and cocky young agent (Caleb Landry Jones) who rents her the billboard space are targeted by the chief's intellectually and emotionally stunted deputy, in violent reprisals that cost him his badge.

Australia's Abbie Cornish and "Game of Thrones" actor Peter Dinklage also star in the film, which is McDonagh's third after "In Bruges" and "Seven Psychopaths."

In a statement, McDonagh called the win "thrilling."

"You never really know if a story as heartfelt but also as outrageous and funny and unusual as ours is has really connected to, you know, real people," he said.

"So it's brilliant to hear that it has."

'THE FILM WROTE ITSELF'

In Venice, where the film premiered, the British-Irish playwright said he wrote the script specifically for McDormand based on an idea that began to germinate 20 years ago when he was traveling across America by bus.

A decade later, as he pondered a hard-to-explain billboard that had stuck in his mind - involving a mother whose daughter was raped and murdered - he began to flesh out a back story.

"Once I had decided it was a mother, the film wrote itself," he said. "And picturing Frances in my mind helped me write it."

Runners-up for the festival's audience prize were Craig Gillespie's "I, Tonya" about disgraced figure skater Tonya Harding, and the coming-of-age drama "Call Me By Your Name," directed by Luca Guadagnino.

More than 300 feature and short films from 74 countries were screened at the Toronto festival, the biggest in North America.

The event is often seen as a way for Oscar-conscious studios to generate buzz about their movies, with hundreds of filmmakers and actors walking the red carpet in Canada's largest city.

In past years, films such as "Spotlight," "12 Years a Slave," and "Slumdog Millionaire" have gone on from winning the audience prize in Toronto to taking top honors at the Oscars.

Last year, the musical "La La Land" won the Toronto prize and then took home six Oscars, including best actress and best director - but not the top prize, despite the shocking mix-up with "Moonlight" at the end of the gala.

MORE WINNERS

Other accolades at the Toronto festival on Sunday went to Wayne Wapeemukwa for "Luk' Luk'l" and Robin Aubert for "Les Affame," as well as to Huang Hsin-Yao for "The Great Buddha+" and Warwick Thornton for "Sweet Country."

The International Federation of Film Critics awarded prizes to Sadaf Foroughi for "Ava," about a rebellious girl in Iran who fights repression by her parents and society, and to Manuel Martin Cuenca for "The Motive" (El Autor).

Mahour Jabbari, who played the titular Ava and her co-star Shayesteh Sajadi had been denied entry into Canada to attend the festival.

Audiences also chose Joseph Kahn's satirical look at the brutal sport of battle rapping in "Bodied" over runners-up Craig Zahler's "Brawl in Cell Block 99" and James Franco's "The Disaster Artist" for a Midnight Madness prize.

Their pick for best documentary was "Faces Places" by Agnes Varda and street artist JR, which beat out Morgan Spurlock sequel's "Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken!" and "Long Time Running," directed by Jennifer Baichwal and Nicholas De Pencier.
The Central Inspection Commission reveals names to go with Vinachem's whopping $185 million losses

Violations committed by several Vinachem leaders have significantly contributed to blowing trillions of the companys money.

According to the Central Inspection Commission of the Communist Party of Vietnam, several Vinachem projects have been making losses in recent years. In particular, four out of five projects, most notably Ninh Binh Fertiliser Plant project, have accumulated losses of over VND4.2 trillion ($185 million).

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has issued a warning of the urgent need to effectively detect and address violations committed by any division or individual at Vinachem.

Four Vinachem leaders in the red

The four high-ranking leaders of Vinachem who were put under investigation include Nguyen Anh Dung, secretary of the Vinachem Party Committee and chairman of Vinachem Board of Directors and Members Council for the term 2010-2015, as well as three other former leaders of the term 2005-2010.

In particular, Nguyen Anh Dung was held mainly responsible for the violations of the Party Standing Committee of Vinachem during the term 2010-2015.

Given his responsibilities as the leader of the group, Dung was accused of acting irresponsibly and slacking in the course of his management, monitoring, and inspection duties, causing a wide range of violations and shortcomings in the management of human resources, capital, assets, land, and investments of the group.

Such violations have resulted in so many serious consequences that Vinachem and other affiliates were unable to preserve the capital allocated by the state.

He was charged with slacking on his duties of supervision and inspection for serious violations during the implementation of the Lao Cai DAP No.2 project. Besides, he was mainly responsible for violations during the implementation of the Ha Bac fertiliser project.

Do Quang Chieu, former secretary of the Vinachem Party Committee and former chairman of the Board of Directors, was held mainly responsible for violations and shortcomings in steering the implementation of the Ninh Binh fertiliser project during its first phase.

Specifically, Chieu was deemed irresponsible for submitting the project pre-feasibility and feasibility study reports to relevant agencies while the development plan for Vietnams chemical industry had not yet been approved.

Although some ,inistries, relevant government bodies, and experts have warned that the project was of low efficiency and contained abundant risks, he still requested competent authorities to authorise the investment. As a result, to date, the project has been performing extremely poorly, causing substantial losses and losing the entire state equity.

Nguyen Quoc Tuan, former secretary of the Vinachem Party Committee, former chairman of the Board of Directors and the Members Council, was held responsible for general violations and shortcomings in his duties at the groups Party Standing Committee.

Particularly, Tuan was deemed irresponsible as a high-level excecutive, slacking in the course of his management duties and thus causing numerous violations in the management of capital, assets, land, and investments of the group. He was held responsible for signing decisions to approve the adjusted feasibility study report of Ninh Binh Fertiliser project and change the schedule of project implementation contrary to the guidelines of the prime minister.

He was accused of failing to monitor and supervise the implementation of the Ha Bac fertiliser project and the DAP No.2 Lao Cai Project, leading to the rise of countless violations and shortcomings. Moreover, he was held responsible for issuing the resolution of the Board of Directors to execute the construction of a commercial centre, offices and luxury apartment complex at 233B Nguyen Trai, Hanoi in contravention of regulations.

Do Duy Phi, former deputy secretary of the Vinachem Party Committee and former member of the Board of Directors and the Members Council as well as CEO of the group, was deemed irresponsible and slacking in management, causing violations and shortcomings in the management of capital, assets, land, and investments of the group.

He was found responsible for violations and ethical breaches after issuing the decisions on the implementation of the Ninh Binh fertiliser project, Ha Bac fertiliser project, and Lao Cai DAP No.2 project.

The four projects of Vinachem running trillion-dong losses

1. The Ninh Binh fertiliser project incurred a loss of over VND3 trillion ($132.2 million)

The project was executed by Vinachem with a total investment sum of VND12 trillion ($528.6 million). This project incurred the biggest loss of up to VND3.217 trillion ($141.7 million) (by the end of 2016).

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the projects difficult financial situation stemmed from rising investment costs, plus repayment of borrowings from banks and losses from operation. As a result, its production and business suffered from great inefficiency and the plant was shut down.

As stated in the conclusions of the Central Inspection Commission, despite warning from ministries, agencies, and professional government bodies on the projects low investment efficiency and potential risks, CEO of Vinachem and the Members Council still requested competent authorities to authorise implementation.

As a result, the plant continuously suffered losses, with a total amount of more than VND2.5 trillion ($110.1 million).

With respect to the inspection conclusion, MoIT pointed out that Vinachem had wrongly approved the projects adjustment proposal based on underestimated financial risks and limitations in forecasting capacity.

At the conclusion of the inspection of this project, MoIT mentioned a host of violations and shortcomings in the management of the construction of the Ninh Binh fertiliser project as well as the production and business activities of Ninh Binh Fertilised One Member Co., Ltd.

Regarding Vinachems Members Council and its CEO, the Central Inspection Commission concluded that the leaders had not performed their monitoring and supervision duties justifiably and adequately, which allowed the Project Management Unit of Ninh Binh Fertiliser Plant to breach the contract by switching from equipment sourced from EU and G7 countries to products of Chinese origin.

The Members Council and CEO of Vinachem also committed numerous violations in contract signing, acceptance testing, payments to contractors, and the finalisation of the project.

A number of processes were corrupted with wrongdoings throughout the stages of project formulation, appraisal, approval, contract signing, acceptance testing, and payments to the fulfilment of state budget obligations, which inevitably increased the total investment of the projects.

2. Lao Cai DAP project charged with abundant violations

The total investment of the Lao Cai DAP project reached nearly VND5.2 trillion ($229.1 million), a significant increase compared to the initially approved figure (more than $193.8 million).

Notably, since July 2015, after the plant went into commercial production as of June 30, 2016, it has failed to meet production output targets.

Practically, from July 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015, the average production capacity was only 65.2 per cent, resulting in 107,571 tonnes of DAP; from January 1, 2016 to June 30, 2016, the average production capacity dropped to 43.5 per cent, yielding 71,758 tonnes of DAP.

In 2015, the company lost more than VND100 billion ($4.41 million). In 2016, the loss was over VND800 billion ($35.2 million).

The audited report on the construction, management, and utilisation of investment capital of Vinachems Lao Cai DAP project dated October 27, 2016 by the State Audit indicated countless cases of misconduct.

The State Audit of Vietnam also detected signs of law infringement during the implementation of the project. Hence, the Audit Office decided to pass its records to the investigation agency for further clarification.

Specifically, the approved total investment was found different to the actual VND70.2 billion ($3.09 million). During the negotiations to cut down the bidding price of Package No.3 EPC1 originally worth $38.48 million, investors lowered the requirements on technical capacity, origins, and quality of some equipment. They also failed to thoroughly adhere to the principal design and bidding documents, while implementing some unnecessary bidding packages, wasting VND9.3 billion ($409,692).

As requested by MoIT's Steering Committee to handle loss-making projects, Vinachem must resolve all deficiencies and disputes in order to settle the EPC contract and finalise the entire project before September 30, 2017.

3. Ha Bac fertiliser project

Once the alpha male of the Vietnamese fertiliser industry, after expanding its operations with a total investment sum of more than VND10 trillion ($440.53 million), the project has been suffering growing losses.

In 2010, the company kicked off a renovation and expansion project with a total investment of more than $568 million. The project was finalised and put into operation in 2015, raising the capacity from 180,000 to 500,000 tonnes per year.

The new expanded plant has just been put into operation, so interest expenses were fairly significant as significant funds were allocated to cover depreciation. After the first year of expansion (2015), Ha Bac Fertiliser JSC reported a loss of VND669 billion ($29.47 million) (higher than the planned loss of $3.08 million). The figure continued to increase to around VND1 trillion ($44.05 million) just one year later.

According to the first year plan (2015), the company expected to incur a loss of $26.55 million, equivalent to VND585 billion. In the second year (2016), the loss was forecasted at $5.659 million, equivalent to VND124.69 billion. By the third year (2017), the company expects to gain a profit of $4 million, equivalent to VND88.3 billion (at current exchange rates).

Even if the company manages to make profit in 2017, it is nearly impossible for it to break even before 2019.

The poor performance might be attributed to fierce competition among domestic manufacturers, and importers, especially those from China.

With regards to the expansion project of Ha Bac fertiliser plant, the Ministry of Construction also concluded that many violations occurred during the implementation of the project, such as purposely overestimating the costs, performing construction works without a licence, executing illegal construction works and hiring unqualified staff. As such, Ha Bac Fertiliser JSC had to bear a total fine of up to VND100 billion ($4.4 million).

To date, the project has not been able to finalise the EPC bidding package because the investor has not yet arranged enough funds for disbursement, while at the same time several procedural obstacles have not been properly addressed.

4. Dinh Vu DAP project in Haiphong is struggling to escape from losses

According to the financial reports, DAP-Vinachem JSC (DDV) of the Dinh Vu DAP project, as of September 30, 2016 has accumulated losses of nearly VND321 billion ($14.14 million).

The owners equity fell to VND1.145 trillion ($50.44 million), down 24 per cent since the beginning of the year. DDVs financial debts have reached VND817 billion ($35.99 million), including nearly VND682 billion ($30.04 million) of short-term debts and around VND135.4 billion ($5.96 million) of long-term debts.

Vinachem awarded Dinh Vu DAP Plant's EPC to Chinese contractors. The project started in 2003 and was basically completed by 2009, making very slow progress compared to the requirements. The products of the plant failed to meet the quality standard originally designed, with the chemical content of DAP fertiliser products exceeding 61 per cent.

The Chinese contractors were unable to find appropriate solutions for these technical and technological problems. Later, they had to accept the penalty for withdrawing from the project. Two years after the handover, Dinh Vu DAP Plant began to experience losses due to the backlog of products.

As of June 30, 2017, DDV has accumulated losses of VND521 billion ($22.95 million). The owners equity has dropped to VND944.6 billion ($41.61 million).

The total assets of DDV were VND2.073 trillion ($91.32 million), down by 6 per cent compared to the beginning of the year. In particular, the value of short-term assets was estimated at more than VND503 billion ($22.16 million) (making up 24 per cent of the asset structure), while long-term assets were valued at VND1.534 trillion ($67.58 million), accounting for 76 per cent.

In 2016, DDV recorded its biggest loss as production output only reached 168,000 tonnes. Revenue decreased sharply compared to 2015, only yielding VND1.319 trillion ($58.1 million) and resulting in a loss of VND470 billion ($20.7 million).

The leaders of Dinh Vu DAP Plant said that such big losses were caused by a sharp decline in fertiliser market prices, while the cost of materials kept increasing. Besides, limitations in the management of production costs and poor market planning were also listed as some of the root causes.
Rubber latex being harvested by workers at Binh Phuoc Province-based Dong Phu Rubber Co, an affiliate of the Vietnam Rubber Group. - VNA/VNS Photo Dinh Hue

According to a decision signed by MARD last week, the company will submit its equitisation plan to the Government this month. VRG missed the deadline for its initial public offering (IPO), which was scheduled for July 2017.

According to deputy minister Ha Cong Tuan, the reason for the delay is the Governments desire for the IPO to be audited by the State Audit of Viet Nam to ensure the State capital in the company is protected.

As VRG has a large area of land property, which covers 420,000ha in Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia, the audit must be carried out carefully, Tuan said. This is such a big advantage for VRG and the profit brought by the large area of land could be huge in the future.

It will take months to collect feedback from other ministries and sectors on the equitisation plan of VRG, but we have to be careful to preserve the State capital in the company, said Tuan.

Nonetheless, deputy minister Tuan and VRG deputy general director Huynh Van Bao assured local media that the company will complete its equitisation by the end of this year and start running as a joint-stock firm in 2018.

In addition to careful inspection of VRGs land property, the IPO has also been delayed by the search for a strategic investor with specialised knowledge and understanding of the agricultural sector and the same vision as VRG.

Deputy minister Tuan and the firms general director ??? Thuan told Dau Tu (Investment) newspaper that it was hard to find such a potential investor who can also spend around VND5-10 trillion to purchase part of the Government capital. The companys charter capital as of December 21, 2015 was VND26.16 trillion.

VRG has maintained good performance on rising rubber prices. The rubber price on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange gained 0.1 per cent to finish Friday trading at 221.4 yen per kilogramme.

In the first six months of 2017, VRG posted VND8.1 trillion in revenue and VND1.5 trillion in post-tax profit, increases of 46 per cent and 169 per cent from one year ago. The figures helped VRG complete 33 per cent and 47 per cent of its targets for 2017.
By Vidya : Late actor Jiah Khan's mother Rabia Khan has started an online signature campaign to reach out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Left with "no choice" but to approach PM Modi, Rabia also wrote a four-page letter to him earlier this morning. She says that after four years, all she is looking for is closure.

Jiah was found dead on June 3, 2013. The initial investigation was done by the Juhu police, which concluded that it was a case of suicide. Jiah's boyfriend, actor Sooraj Pancholi, was arrested for abetting her suicide and was released on bail later.

advertisement

Rabia has been consulting forensic experts abroad, and all of them are of the opinion that it is a clear case of murder. Armed with such reports, Rabia knocked on the doors of the Bombay High Court for justice, and the court transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, like the Juhu police, the CBI also concluded that it was a case of suicide.

Rabia feels that there were many unanswered questions in the CBI investigation. She petitioned the court again for the setting up of a Special Investigation team (SIT). However, the court rejected her petition. With the trial in the case of suicide about to begin, Rabia appealed to the PM for justice. She started an online petition which, in a few hours, was signed by at least 25 people.

Sooraj Pancholi's parents, Aditya Pancholi and Zarina Wahab, and sister Sana have already dragged Rabia to court for defaming them. Despite the warning from the court to not defame the Pancholis any further, Rabia has said in the letter, "It is not my task to speculate about the police's and the CBI's motivation, but a connection and the influence of the accused's father Aditya Pancholi would not be too far-fetched."

Below is the full text of the letter written by Rabia:

Dear Prime Minister,

I am the mother of Jiah Khan, who was murdered in Mumbai on 3rd June 2013. Despite clear signs of foul play at the crime scene, the local police declared it a suicide. After the initial traumatic shock from the loss of my daughter, it became clear to me that the "investigation" by Juhu Police was entirely sabotaged in order to benefit the Accused, for reasons best known to them.

With tireless support from my advocate Mr Dinesh Tiwari, I moved the Bombay High Court in October 2013, with all the forensic evidence that I have obtained from experts in India and England that is pointing towards homicide. Analysis of the forensic experts shows that the injuries on my daughter's body are inconsistent with the alleged suicidal hanging and the forensic evidence strongly suggest that she was murdered and then hanged to make it look like a suicide.

advertisement

Since then, it has been four years now that I had been persistent fighting for justice. The Hon'ble Bombay High Court, in July 2014 heard my petition and prayer for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), supposedly the premier investigating agency in India, to investigate my daughter's death. The case was transferred to the CBI with a clear mandate to find out whether my daughter's death was homicidal or suicidal, and, if it was found to be homicidal, to launch a further investigation and take appropriate action.

For some reason, CBI was reluctant to take over the case from the beginning, and in fifteen months of delay in their findings, the CBI investigation got compromised. It would be an insult to the capabilities of the CBI to say that CBI just failed to conduct a proper investigation. There is no doubt CBI has all the powers and skills required to get to the bottom of my daughter's death. But somehow, the CBI investigation went off track, for reasons best known to them.

advertisement

Even CBI's own independent forensic expert opinion from PGI was inconclusive and does not rule out either homicide or suicide. The CBI had been misleading me about the direction of their investigation ever since the first meeting with the participation of two representatives of the US Consulate in Mumbai, Rachel Sunden and Kenneth D'Mello, on 10th February 2015 at my residence in Juhu, Mumbai.

Anyone looking at the actual facts in this case realizes that the case has been heavily "managed". It is not my task to speculate about the police's and the CBI's motivation, but a connection and the influence of the Accused's father Aditya Pancholi would not be too far-fetched.

UK-based forensic expert Jason Payne James clearly states in his report that this appears to be a staged homicide. So I approached the Hon'ble High Court earlier this year with all the relevant grievances and expert reports requesting reinvestigation by an SIT. CBI strongly opposed, but the Hon'ble High Court noted in its order that all the points raised in my petition can be submitted to the trial court.

I submitted the application 95 to the trial court through the State-appointed Special Public Prosecutor Mr Dinesh Tiwari who knows the history of this case from the beginning. During the argument in the trial court the Hon'ble Judge asked the CBI why evidence like crime scene photographs, mention of ligature, call logs, Blackberry phone text messages, GPS and expert reports were not part of their supplementary report? Following this submission, the CBI has been trying to remove SPP Tiwari and to replace him with one of its own prosecutors who has no knowledge about the case and has been displaying a hostile attitude towards me.

advertisement

Recently, when my application to submit key evidence and forensic expert reports was argued in the trial court the CBI, along with the Accused, strongly opposed the application being accepted by the court. How is justice going to be served, if the prosecution CBI has teamed up with the Accused to suppress evidence?

The forensic report by Jason Payne-James and a report by Professor Deborah Barneveld which highlight what CBI has ignored to investigate and denied justice to the victim's family. It is in this light that I have no other recourse than to plead to you about the case of my daughter Jiah. My grief, my pain as a mother is not just words, truth and justice must be surfaced and served and only you the honourable Prime minister have the power to ensure this. May God guide you to help us. Please let me know what are your plans and advice for the victim's mother and family to grant them a closure. May almighty God bless you and the nation India. (sic)

Sincerely yours,Rabia Khan, victim Jiah Khan's mother

ALSO WATCH | Jiah Khan death not suicide? Newest twist in case; 'hanging was staged'

--- ENDS ---
Susan Rice, the former National Security Advisor, has admitted before the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee that during the transition period, she had spied on Donald Trump and his team when they were in Trump Tower, New York. She also admitted that she had had the names of Donald Trump, Jared Kushner, Michael Flynn and Steve Bannon deleted from summaries of the tappings.

Mrs Rice has guaranteed that her intention was not to find out the secret plans of the Team Trump. She just was trying to figure out what the United Arab Emirates was up to, and was hoping to gather relevant information from the content of an interview that the President Elect was supposed to have given to the Prince and heir to the throne of Abu Dhabi.

Until now, Susan Rice had always denied spying on Donald Trump and his team both in the transition period and also in the run up to the presidential elections. There have been several times when President Trump has denounced the illegal tappings that the Obama Administration had authorized against him, which the Press in the United States had qualified as completely fabricated.

President Richard Nixon had been forced to resign for spying on the Democratic Partys electoral headquarters. However, in the case of Susan Rice, the Congressmen have not acquired a conviction that she had committed a federal crime and that she had tried to cover it up.

In contrast, President Obamas team is presenting the tappings ordered by Susan Rice as wholly legitimate in the context of an investigation into possible Russian interferences. Furthermore, it is a fact that the United Arab Emirates has organized at the same time, a meeting in the Seychelles, between someone close to President Putin and Erik Prince (former director of Blackwater, military advisor to the Emirates and brother of the current Education Secretary, Betsy DeVos).
The Leader of the Revolution is an institution, specific to Iran. Inspired by the Government of the Wise Men in Platos Republic, the Guide holds the following concurrent powers:

 The power to veto any decision made by political leaders in his country; and

 The power to take initiative abroad.

His budget is made up of extraordinary revenues from oil. As it happens, when, pursuant to the nuclear deal, the ban on selling Iranian oil, was lifted, Iran and this Leader both benefitted: extraordinary revenues flowed to them  something that should never happen again.

In keeping with the fiduciary nature of his office, the Leader has not used these resources for his own benefit  he is famous for his frugal lifestyle , nor has he used them to advantage his fellow citizens. Instead he has channelled these funds to progressing Justice throughout the world. In contrast to other religious figures, he has funded only a few charitable associations but several political associations.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has distributed this money to support different groups, channelling the biggest share (800 million dollars/80%) to the Hezbollah in 2016.

The Hezbollah has deployed 7,000 volunteers in the Syrian Arab Republic to save populations from hordes of jihadists. 2,000 of these volunteers have died fighting.
By India Today Web Desk: Television actors Juhi Parmar and Sachin Shroff, who tied the knot in February 2009, are reportedly set to file for divorce.

According to a leading daily, the couple, who have a four-year-old daughter Samaira, have been trying to mend their differences for a long time now. But it appears there is little chance for reconciliation.

advertisement

TimesOfIndia quoted a source close to the couple saying, "While everything was fine during the initial years of marriage, trouble started brewing over a period of time. Differences crept into their relationship, which now seem irreconcilable. Sachin was conspicuous by his absence even at the launch of Juhi's mythological show Siddharth Kumar Tewary's 'Karmphal Data Shani'. They have been staying separately for almost a year. Samaira stays with Juhi, who will soon file for divorce. There is no chance of reconciliation."

In 2011, reports of their marriage hitting a rough patch had cropped up which died down with time.

Juhi Parmar did not respond to the message asking if the reports were true.
The Ministry for Heritage has announced that three new interpretation panels have been placed within our Old Town in order to provide information on our Medieval History, namely our Islamic and Spanish Periods.
Stephen Colbert and the dancing handmaids. Photo: FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images

From dancing handmaids to Trump digs, the 69th Emmy Awards had everything, even if it wasnt always nice. With Stephen Colbert at the helm, the ceremony vacillated between political commentary, a celebration of the variety of Peak TV, and more than a little back-patting on the industrys part for being just a tiny bit more progressive than usual. With a slate of exciting winners, and a slew of not-quite-fully-realized sketches, the ceremony exemplified the contradictions  for better and for worse  of the hectic TV moment. Were here to break down what worked, what didnt, and what was just baffling.

LOW: Sean Spicers appearance

For months, Sean Spicers job  a job he chose willingly  was to stand up in front of the American people and lie. As punishment, he has spent his time since leaving the White House being turned into a harmless figure of fun. The Emmys didnt start this, but they certainly contributed to it, bringing the former press secretary out for a reprise of his inauguration-numbers bit, as if it were the Dead Parrot sketch and not, you know, a horrifying preview of what the Trump administration would be like.

HIGH: But, hey, at least it gave us some good reaction GIFs.

It was like watching Winona Ryder during the SAG Awards, but on 100 famous faces with their jaws unhinged.

LOW: The dancing handmaids in the opening number.

Nothing kicks off an award show with more style than a bunch of abused handmaids ripping off suppressive robes so they can be objectified instead. It helped that some of them were men, but not enough to make this whole exercise feel less weird.

HIGHS: Marbles.

LOW: The Emmys congratulating itself on diversity.

Television has made some noticeable gains recently, especially in front of the camera, but the overwhelming tone of self-congratulation for diversity at the Emmys this year wasnt all that deserved. It was great seeing Big Little Lies, Lena Waithe, Donald Glover, Sterling K. Brown, and Riz Ahmed win. But TV continues to have a paucity of stories that center on women and people of color with interior lives and terrible issues with diversity behind the scenes. This is especially true of CBS, which aired the Emmys and has no new series with female leads premiering this fall, save for Star Trek: Discovery. Its a little premature to be celebrating!

HIGH: Colbert as host.

From the White House Correspondents Dinner to the Emmys stage, Stephen Colbert has a knack for gauging tone. He knows how to reserve his earnest commentary for the moments that count (asking people to contribute to hurricane relief efforts), when to skewer a room of rich and famous people for their privilege (congratulating the audience for being able to clap and pat their own backs at the same time), and when to deliver a hard joke (that Maher dig). Colbert kept the ceremony from indulging too deeply in its own self-satisfaction.

LOW: You Dont Own Me playing as The Handmaids Tale won, twice.

Almost as bad as The Handmaids Tales own you-go-girl music choices.

HIGH: Tituss Burgess as the Westworld cyborg we deserve.

In a Westworld skit that featured Jeffrey Wright and a mostly naked Stephen Colbert, Tituss Burgess starred as the best cyborg Westworld doesnt actually have. If only Westworld had this much fun with its premise. Bleep-bloop.

LOW: The surreal In Memoriam picture-frame montage.

Forget the stuffy montages of years past. This time, the Emmys tried the In Memoriam with a different design: Photos of the industrys dearly departed appeared in CGI (?) picture frames (??). Its In Memoriam in the visual aesthetic of a Skymall catalogue.

HIGH: Anthony Andersons cackle.

Stephen Colbert poked fun at the Television Academys back-patting about diversity, and then made a joke about Bill Maher using the N-word on air back in June. The best part? Anthony Andersons cackle, which could be heard even after the camera showed his reaction shot.

LOW: Sterling K. Brown being played off.

The Emmys musical director was just itching to play people off all night, but nowhere was it more gratuitous than Sterling K. Browns acceptance speech, when the newly minted Best Actor in a Drama was first played off, and then, when he informed the audience that he would stop for no orchestra, had his mic cut off entirely. Up to that point, Browns speech had been one of the best of the night, Nicole Kidman had just spent ages up there not five minutes before, and there were only two more awards left. The Emmys ended up finishing at 11:02  would it really have killed anyone for them to end at 11:04? Let us hear more of that mans silky voice!
Michelle Pfeiffer in Mother! Photo: Paramount Pictures

Mother! is a film brimming with surreal, gonzo cinematic pleasures. Writer-director Darren Aronofsky has created a true feast for the senses that is heavy on mood, texture, sonic landscapes, and visual insanity. He interweaves Gnosticism, Biblical retellings, mythology, and environmental commentary to create a horror film that is as much about the act of creation as it is about the painful, even sadistic ways women are whittled down in marriage by the men who look at them primarily as muses. Whether hes successful in his aims is another matter entirely. I remain profoundly uneasy about and mixed on the film; I appreciate the audaciousness with which Aronofsky constructs this grand myth, even if I find the cruelty heaped upon Lawrences character lacks the emotional nuance necessary to justify it.

Yet about one thing Im certain: Whenever Michelle Pfeiffer is onscreen, the film becomes electric. Amid all this chaos, the moment that first leaps into my mind when I think of the film is Pfeiffer, encircling a pallid, frightened Jennifer Lawrence, with a cutting smirk on her face that suggests her character is capable of great violence. Shes the only actor in the film able to give her role real-world weight without sacrificing the mythological nature that undergirds its construction.

The film begins as a tense exploration of a strained marriage through the lens of a young wife (Lawrence) and her much older poet husband (Javier Bardem), whose lives are thrown off balance by a knock at the door  first from Ed Harris, then from his wife, played by Pfeiffer. The film only briefly explores the dynamics of this foursome before it becomes another beast altogether; even after Pfeiffer and Harriss familial arguments spill blood and madness through Lawrence and Bardems home, the focus remains steadfastly on Lawrence. But in brief flashes, Pfeiffer suggests another tantalizing narrative  Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by way of Old Testament fables.

The characters in Mother! arent given names, but archetypal titles. Bardem is Him; even Lawrence is only credited as mother. Pfeiffer and Harris are respectively credited as Woman and Man. Aronofsky requires his actors to stand in for weighty Biblical and mythological figures  Cain and Abel, Adam and Eve, God  which makes for an overwhelming narrative experience, but also encourages performances that feel a bit weightless, lacking the nuance necessary for their traumas to resonate beyond the realm of allegory. Out of the main actors, its Pfeiffer who is able to root the character in meaning  she bracingly marries the exploration of Biblical creation, mythological overtones, and hellish domestic commentary. Theres a gravity to Pfeiffers performance that allows her to succeed where the other main actors fail, save for brief spurts  she straddles the boundaries between embodying a symbol and granting the character enough interiority to feel like a flesh and blood woman, too. Pfeiffers presence darkens the home, and calls to mind a number of figures: When her hand snakes around Bardems shoulder, she feels both like a snake invading paradise and a woman reaching out to hold onto someone in the aftermath of loss. When she cocks her head to the side, examining Lawrence for the right point of impact before slyly going for the jugular with a remark about the age difference in her marriage, I thought of Lilith, and the kind of woman who drunkenly delights in highlighting deep fissures in the lives of others while hers is falling apart. She also suggests Hecate, and most pronouncedly, Eve; shes the primal representation of woman as sin incarnate, woman as usurper, and also the kind of woman its easy to imagine catching in a restaurant window, drunk at brunch. Watching Pfeiffer is witnessing a master at work.

Pfeiffers greatness as an actress rests among several contradictions. Yes, shes able to capably slip between being an icy temptress (Scarface), a reluctant mob enforcers wife who pops gum almost as much as she spits out one-liners (Married to the Mob), a latex-clad thief who embodies female fury (Batman Returns), and a harried witch trying to attain eternal youth (Stardust). But Pfeiffers recent return to high-caliber films worthy of her talents isnt just welcome because of her versatility, or her stunning capability to transform physically and vocally for a role. No modern actress better evokes the rich tension between understanding the currency that comes with being a great beauty and the distaste with being seen at all. Pfeiffers hostility toward the male gaze in Mother! proves so subversive, it becomes a demonstration of how a great actress can be just as much an author of a film as its director.

Related Stories Darren Aronofsky Talks the Metaphors of Mother!

In a recent conversation with Darren Aronofsky for Interview magazine, Pfeiffer says of her career, I didnt have any formal training. I didnt come from Juilliard. I was just getting by and learning in front of the world. So Ive always had this feeling that one day theyre going to find out that Im really a fraud, that I really dont know what Im doing. The most instructive moment from the interview comes a bit later, when Pfeiffer admits, I still work pretty instinctually  its a little bit like hearing the rhythm of the character in your head. This instinct and drive to prove herself may be responsible for just how wide-ranging Pfeiffers career has been since Scarface: Shes popped up in dark fantasies, overheated noirs, romantic comedies, and big-budget dramas. Shes played yearning single mothers and villainesses, witches and working-class dames just trying to get by. What Pfeiffer proves to be best at is playing women on the edge  of sanity, society, or self-discovery.

Despite only being in the first half of Mother! , Pfeiffers energy and prowess are on full display, her impact felt long after she is no longer onscreen. Much of this is due to her physicality, which has always been her greatest gift. Choose any performance in her decades-long career, turn the film on mute, and you can chart the interior life of the woman she plays just by watching her move. In Mother!, its a delight witnessing Pfeiffer play a bitch downing spiked lemonade, her body growing languid with each passing sip. Yet she retains the predatory edge and serpentine grace that causes Lawrence to cower.

Of course, if you did turn Mother! on mute, youd miss how delicious her line readings are, balancing cutting assessments and venomous insults, all wrapped in a drunken haze. Arguably, the scene that best showcases how Pfeiffer uses her voice and physicality is when she travels with Lawrence to the bowels of the house to do laundry. Pfeiffer casually tosses out insults about the unfinished basement and the clear divisions in Lawrences marriage. When she closes the space between them to giddily remark on Lawrences choice of underwear, Lawrence cant help but feel smaller in comparison. Pfeiffer is so potent in this role, its enough to draw sympathy for Lawrences character.

Of course, Lawrence has the trickier role, given how she operates as a stand-in for the Greek mother goddess and embodiment of Earth, Gaia  a more pagan representation of divinity, creation, and the feminine, which is a dramatic contrast to Bardems Old Testamentstyled God. Shes masochistically dedicated to her genius husband, routinely brutalized, and granted no interior life on the page, save for the occasional sparks of passive-aggressiveness. Shes in nearly every frame of the film, and its her perspective that guides us through the hellish wonders Aronofsky creates. Yet as the film continues, she feels less and less like a fully realized person, making it hard for us to feel fully sympathetic, or for her brutalization to come across as much more than a hollow exercise in the grotesque.

This is because Lawrence isnt quite suited for the role. Lawrence has two primary modes as an actress: stoic, flinty-eyed heroines (Winters Bone; the Hunger Games franchise) and broadly depicted showboating that runs entirely on charisma and sucks the oxygen out of the room (nearly everything else, but especially her work with David O. Russell, like Silver Linings Playbook). Here, she has none of that to hold onto. This role requires an actress to have an internal life, projecting more than what is handed to her, as Aronofsky constructs his nameless heroine as Gaia. Actresses like Joan Fontaine and Olivia de Havilland became legends by rendering their unerringly good-natured, masochistically devoted characters with the interiority necessary for you to connect with their plight. Lawrence struggles to do the same, which is increasingly clear when shes onscreen with Pfeiffer.

Much to the detriment of the film, Pfeiffer is only actor able to consistently suggest her character has a life beyond the walls of the crumbling home that provides the films only setting. She grounds her performance and grants it the archness necessary for it to reverberate at the tenor of myth. With a gaze, a smirk, a glare shes able to suggest an entire history. She delights. She challenges. And like all great actors, ultimately, she transforms.
Photo: Aimee Spinks/Starz

Outlander can at once feel both expansive and extremely intimate. A prime example of this phenomenon is the shows vast ensemble: We get introduced to a new character (with a new Scottish name to remember) seemingly every episode, yet everyone is connected to each other in one way or another.

All of that interconnectedness can be challenging to keep straight, especially as Outlander shows no sign of scaling down as it, um, sails into season four. As Claire and Jamies world grows bigger, their connection to the past and to their family is more important than ever. Its important for the audience, too! Since we figure ourselves a regular ol Frank Randall  the dude loves family trees  Vulture has put together a guide to the Whos Who of Outlander.

A note before we jump in: This family tree sticks to what weve seen in the TV series through the end of season three, supplemented with some background from the book series. Book readers will know there are some major branches yet to come, but for the sake of Outlander viewers who havent read Diana Gabaldons novels, were avoiding major spoilers.

Lets start with James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser. You may know him as Jamie MacTavish, a.k.a. Red Jamie, a.k.a. the Dunbonnet, a.k.a. that hot redhead who pops up in your steamy dreams. Jamies ancestry, like most members of our Highland clans, is extensive, so well stick to the basics. His parents, both deceased by the time we meet him in season one, are Brian and Ellen Fraser. Dont they sound like that nice couple youd meet on a cruise? Well, these two are a little more hardcore than that: Brian, as you may recall from season two, had a fraught relationship with his father (and Jamies grandfather), Simon Fraser. Grandfather Simon is super-into seers, and also he was a real dick to Jamie and Claire when Jamie came asking for some assistance with the Jacobite uprising  though he did, eventually, send some guys. But just because Simon didnt approve of Brian and Ellens marriage doesnt mean they had an unhappy one. In fact, it was quite the opposite over on Lallybroch. They had three children in addition to Jamie: William (deceased), Jenny, and Robert (stillborn), before Ellen died during Roberts birth.

Of course, we all know and love Jenny Fraser Murray. Shes the badass bitch who keeps Lallybroch afloat while her brother is off fighting redcoats, being thrown in jail repeatedly, and falling in love with a combat nurse who magically travelled to the Highlands from the 1940s. (As younger brothers do.) After Jenny married Ian Murray, a childhood friend of the Frasers, she proceeded to pop out an army of bairns. Honestly, how Jenny raises all those kids and still has time to bust everyones balls for being dummies might be the greatest mystery of this show.

Theres the eldest, Young Jamie, showing just how strong the bond between Jenny and her brother is. You might remember Jenny and Ians eldest daughter, Margaret, from that time Claire assisted Jenny in delivering the baby on her bedroom floor. There are a whole bunch of kids born after Margaret, all with very Scottish names, but the child weve come to know the best on the show is Jennys youngest, Young Ian. Much like his uncle, Young Ian has a penchant for getting into trouble regardless of where he is or what his intentions are. He did not, however, inherit Jamies glorious copper curls.

The other major player in the Fraser clan, and our hearts, is Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser. This bearded romantic is second cousins with Brian Fraser, which made it super-awkward when both he and Brian vied for Ellens heart in their younger years. Obviously, she chose Brian, but Murtaghs love was so strong, he vowed to take care of her son Jamie for the rest of his own life  and he was appointed Jamies godfather. Murtagh fought alongside Jamie at the Battle of Culloden, and as of the end of season three, hes been shipped off to the colonies after the closing of Ardsmuir Prison.

The missing piece to this part of the Outlander family tree is, of course, our heroine Claire Beauchamp Randall Fraser. Claire was raised by her archeologist uncle, Quentin Lambert Beauchamp (call him Uncle Lamb, if youre nasty) after her parents died in a car accident, and she stumbled into the Fraser line by mysterious ways. It is the reason why were all here today. (Honestly, if Claire hadnt gone through those standing stones at Craigh na Dun and fallen for the ginger hottie with a body, what would we do with all of our time? Learn how to crochet? Practical, but way less sexy.) The epic romance between Claire and Jamie yields several children, including the stillborn Faith Fraser, their French ward Fergus (if you still cry about Jamie giving Fergus his name, you are not alone), and their 200-year-old-baby daughter, Brianna Randall.

As Claire discovers once she makes her triumphant return to the past, Jamie does have some relationships with other women, but hes never loved another woman. We all, including Claire, should just keep that in mind always. So, yes, Jamie does have another child in addition to those he had with Claire: William Ransom. The boys mother is the late Geneva Dunsany of Helwater, the house where Jamie serves his parole after his stint in Ardsmuir Prison. Geneva is betrothed to the elderly Ludovic Ransom, Earl of Ellesmere and blackmails Jamie into taking her virginity before she gets married. Definitely not cool. Geneva die after giving birth and Lord Ellesmere (also, everyone else) is hip to Williams true parentage. William is still his heir, but he also threatens to kill the baby, until Jamie kills Ellesmere. (Its this whole thing.) William ends up being raised by Genevas sister Isobel Dunsany, who happens to marry Lord John Grey, the one-time governor of Ardsmuir Prison, current Governor of Jamaica, and Jamies dear friend and most ardent admirer. Its a complicated family.

Surprise! Jamie also has two step-daughters, Marsali MacKimmie Fraser and Joan MacKimmie. They became his step-daughters when he married their mother, Laoghaire MacKenzie. If that name sounds familiar, its because Laoghaire is the same woman who orchestrates Claire being put on trial for witchcraft. If theres one person in all of time who Claire would not want Jamie to marry, its definitely Laoghaire. Thankfully, since Jamie and Claire were still technically married, Jamie and Laoghaires marriage isnt valid. Jamie, the kindest of hunks, remains a father figure to the girls. Especially to Marsali, who falls in love with and marries Fergus. Yes, that Fergus. Is there any other?

Lest you think all the members of Clan MacKenzie are as devious as Laoghaire, remember that Rupert MacKenzie and Angus Mhor were also members. (A bromance for the ages, those two!) But more importantly, Jamie is half MacKenzie on his mothers side. Ellen Fraser grew up at Castle Leoch with a whole slew of siblings, but the ones we know best are her brothers, Colum and Dougal MacKenzie, both now deceased thanks to Claire and Jamie. Colum, despite a debilitating disease, became laird of Castle Leoch and chieftain of Clan MacKenzie, much to the chagrin of his hotheaded younger brother. Colum and his wife Letitia have one son, Hamish, but it is perhaps the worst kept secret in Scotland that Hamish is actually Dougals biological son. Eventually, Colums physical pain becomes too much to bear, and he asks Claire to help him die peacefully  but not before leaving Clan MacKenzie to his nephew, Jamie. Again, not helping ease any tensions with Dougal.

Speaking of Dougal, hes the third child of Jacob and Anne MacKenzie, and becomes war chieftain of Clan MacKenzie. This Jacobite-loving Scot marries Maura Grant MacKenzie, and although they have children together, hes better known for his unclaimed descendents. There is, of course, little Hamish, but more important to the overall story is William Buccleigh MacKenzie. He is raised by William and Sarah MacKenzie, but he is the biological son of Dougal and Geillis Duncan, the second-most famous Craigh na Dun time-traveller and the only one whose skin care routine includes bathing in goats blood. (Geillis is killed by Claire in the season-three finale, while attempting to time-travel and murder Brianna.) Dougal and Geilliss love child becomes integral to the Outlander story, since, as Claire figures out, this child is the ancestor of another major player: Roger Wakefield.

Roger is yet another orphan of Outlander: Claire first meets him as a young child, while she and Frank are visiting Rogers uncle and guardian, Reverend Wakefield. She meets him again as a grown man in the 1960s, when Claire returns to Inverness with Brianna after the Reverends passing and asks for assistance in tracking down some of her Battle of Culloden friends. Roger is a kindly historian who takes on Claires project and spends a lot of time awkwardly flirting with Brianna. That awkward flirting turns into kissing, so, you go on with your bad self, Roger.

Speaking of Brianna, we should give her other dad a shout out. Frank Randall gets a pretty raw deal! The guy searches for his wife for years, is willing to accept her crazy time-travel story once she returns, and loves her despite her obvious eternal and other-worldly connection to another man. More importantly, the dude can wear some glasses. Does he carry on a long-term affair? Yes. But its not like he didnt try to make things work with Claire. Its tough when theres a very burly Scottish ghost sharing your bed. Despite how he treats Claire  yes, he is an ass by the end of it  he is a ridiculously good adoptive father to Bree.

Of course, its understandable that Claire has a tough time looking at Frank: She spent years being terrorized by his ancestor, Jonathan Wolverton Randall, a.k.a. Black Jack Randall. The only good deed that Black Jack ever does in his entire miserable life is agreeing  at Claires repeated urging to marry Mary Hawkins, the woman who is carrying his brother Alexander Randalls child, Denys, when Alex dies. As both Claire and the audience know, Mary and Alexs child is the start of a long line of descendants leading directly to Frank. So, Frank plays second bagpipe to Jamie his entire marriage, hes related to a monster, and he dies in a car accident while on the outs with Claire. Frank isnt the most likeable character, but that guy deserves a hug.
Harry Dean Stanton in Paris, Texas. Photo: Road Movies/Filmverlag

Harry Dean Stanton had seen some shit. That was arguably the defining quality of a varied career that cast the actor as heroes and villains, wanderers and guides. Even from his youngest years, the mans unmistakable sunken-in eyes seemed like they had borne witness to entire millennia; to paraphrase Andrew Lloyd Webber describing Pilate describing Jesus Christ, he had that look you very rarely find  the haunting, hunted kind. Those eyes didnt need to change to convey emotion, instead refracting a given situation back through their unflagging stoicism. In an upbeat moment, the stillness of his gaze would hint at isolation, an inability to feel along with the rest of us. In the Westerns of yore, the thousand-yard stare marked him as one of the strong, silent types who stood tall in a hostile frontier. And in the master actors finest hour, he telegraphed a lifetime of regret with a glance  and what very well may be the greatest monologue in the history of the film medium.

Travis Henderson, the weary mute portrayed by Stanton in the unassailable Paris, Texas, begins with the eyes. When he emerges from the desert as if materializing from nothingness, his vacant looks constitute his primary mode of communication. Hes been paralyzed by a force too powerful for him to name, and only in the films virtuosic climax does Travis dare to reckon with the pain that has silenced him. Hes finally tracked down his wayward ex-wife Jane to a small-town peep show, where she scrapes together grocery money from the goodwill of area perverts. With a one-way mirror concealing him from her and a landline as their only means of connection, Travis lays out their entire story over ten spellbinding minutes. Director Wim Wenders spends a goodly amount of the scene in close-up on Stantons scene partner Natassja Kinski, and you can hardly blame him. Hers is the changing, emotive face, and her realization that the stranger on the other end of the phone is her long-lost love gives the scene its highest peak of feeling. Stanton, however, is the one truly running the show.

All the aspects that made the actors eclectic filmography so uniformly excellent have a presence in this winding, almost unbearably sincere scene. Travis turbulent history with Jane began with the two as young paramours thumbing their noses at societys rules about love, proudly laughing about stupid things. Stanton didnt log much work as a romantic lead, his perpetually shell-shocked expression naturally fighting the type. (Appropriately, Stanton begins his recitation a touch awkwardly, moving at a halting and uneven cadence, even pausing to clear his throat at one point.) But that dimension of withdrawing from the mainstream fit snugly in Stantons persona as an actor. He never had any interest in playing by anyones rules; this is the guy who told Ridley Scott that he didnt like sci-fi or monster movies while auditioning for his role in Alien. Stanton never was especially Hollywood, picking roles out of pure interest and never out of career-maneuvering showbiz calculation. He charted his own path.

This is a man who professed to turning down what would have been any actors dream role because I like to do nothing. It was all too easy to project that unwillingness to submit onto Travis, who extends that principle to a dangerous extreme. Travis recalls quitting various jobs to free up more time to spend with his beloved, caught between his desire to live an individualistic life and the demands of adulthood. (Flashes of his unemployed, working-class dad from Pretty in Pink; work has always been anathema to the Stanton ideal.) The inner torment that flowers as Travis realizes hell have to do a lot of stuff he doesnt want to in order to function on even the most basic level ultimately undoes him. Self-hatred, abuse, an unplanned pregnancy, an unspeakable tragedy, and estrangement follow.

In Travis sad origin story, hes essentially laying out the blueprint for the typical Stanton persona. Well most likely never discover the extent to which the actor himself related to that sense of hardened world-weariness  his determined unknowability was no small part of his appeal as a screen presence  but that was a crucial element of his cultivated essence all the same. As the mentor in punk cornerstone Repo Man, Stanton tacitly hints at decades of buried hurt, cracking the days first beer at 9 a.m. and casually tossing off contempt for ordinary fuckin people, the gravest insult there is in Stantons world. On Twin Peaks, traumatic scars invisibly criss-crossed Carl Rodds craggy face. Ive already gone places, he says, half warning and half confession.

The place Carls referring to there, perhaps the Other Place that Michael J. Andersons backwards-talking dwarf hails from, is an existential no-mans-land that bears a strong resemblance to the negative zone Travis describes in the final lines of his immortal monologue. Its a place from which every sign of man had disappeared. Stanton erected his wheelhouse in this purgatory of alienation, where the native tongue is the stare that bores a hole in your soul. He inhabited it alone, that loneliness not incidental to the melancholic power suffusing so many of his performances. Id like to believe hes somewhere a bit kinder now, doing all the nothing he ever wanted.
Photo: Joan Marcus and Lisa Berg

THERE SHE IS!

WHO DOES SHE THINK

SHE IS

THE NERVE SOME PEOPLE HAVE

SHOULDNT HAVE IT IF YOU CANT AFFORD IT

AND YOU KNOW SHE CANT

SHE DONT GOT NO SKILLS

CEPT ONE

CANT READ CANT WRITE .

THATS WHY THINGS ARE BAD LIKE THEY ARE

CAUSE OF

GIRLS LIKE THAT

She is Hester, the protagonist of Suzan-Lori Parkss In the Blood. As her story begins, we see her surrounded by an ensemble of jeering, anonymous ensemble members who lob those lines at her. She cradles a newborn child in her arms  one of the five shes trying to raise, with none of their fathers in sight. She lives in poverty. She is desperate for help but receives only insults, accusations, curses.

In the Blood was first performed in 1999, but in the powerful production now at Signature Theatre, we never forget that we are grappling with the particular horrors of the here and now, facing down the specific breed of resentment and contempt this society reserves for women of color. The plays heroine is not simply called Hester but Hester La Negrita. Through her harrowing experience  and that of the Hester in Fucking A, In the Bloods sister production playing right across Signatures lobby in the Romulus Linney Courtyard Theatre  Parks rages incisively, articulately, and sometimes even humorously against the capitalist machine that grinds these women down. Both plays are Parkss variations on the theme of Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter, and both feel vital and urgent in the America were currently living in, with its crippling economic stratification, bald-faced sexism, and institutionalized white supremacy.

Of the genesis of In the Blood, Parks has said, I heard a voice  And the voice said, Ill tell you the story of your play  A woman with five children by five different lovers, thats your play, and the children and the adults in the play are played by the same adult actors. Five kids, and five adult interlopers into Hesters world. In the Blood follows her efforts to get by and provide for her family while dealing with increasingly threatening incursions by the Doctor (Frank Wood, who also portrays her son Trouble); Welfare (Jocelyn Bioh, also Hesters daughter Bully); the wheedling hustler Amiga Gringa (Ana Reeder, also her daughter Beauty); the self-serving street preacher and one of Hesters former lovers Reverend D. (Russell G. Jones, who doubles as D. and Hesters child Baby); and finally Chilli, Hesters first love, father of her son Jabber, and a real wolf in Prince Charmings clothing (Michael Braun, who plays Jabber as well).

In portraying the kids  who range from two to 13 years old  these intelligent and versatile actors are by turns exuberant, touching, and even a little menacing. They are Hesters treasures, her joys, but they are also five hungry, volatile, feral creatures. Seeing them manifested in big adult bodies forces us to recognize how heavily they bear down on their mother. Despite their love and need for her, a cloud of menace surrounds them  partly the residue of the adult roles they play, a cast of archetypal and nauseatingly recognizable characters who have all, both figuratively and literally, fucked Hester.

In a series of confessions that punctuate the play, each of these adult figures speak directly to us, the audience, in an attempt to justify or rationalize the fact that he or she has taken advantage of Hester in the most invasive and intimate way. Its not subtle, but Parks isnt going for subtlety so much as confrontation. We want to feel good about ourselves, to give, to be charitable, but in the caustic words of Reverend D., we dont want just any poor. Instead, we want our poor on tv  Famous poor, not miscellaneous poor. And I dont want local poor. Local poor dont look good. Gimmie foreign poor. Poverty exotica.

Local poor Hester is a target  for both the good will and the perversions of those around her. Of the ensemble, Jocelyn Bioh is particularly effective as Welfare, who wears plastic bags over her pink stilettos when she visits Hester and speaks to us from the warm, fuzzy depths of a cocoon of privilege and self-satisfaction. Her response when Hester mutters the casually awful (and awfully true) observation, I dont think the world likes women much is to shoot back with sassy myopia, Im a woman too! And a black woman too just like you. Dont be silly.

Dont be silly, Hester. My hands are tied, Hester. Suck me off, Hester. There are some conditions, Hester. The characters that orbit Hester insidiously pile more and more weight  more and more condescension, judgment, and abuse  upon her, like the psychic equivalent of the towering plastic garbage chute that ascends into the fly space on one side of Louisa Thompsons set, periodically spewing out filth throughout the play. In the Blood is building toward the moment in which its heroine finally buckles under the load.

As Hester, Saycon Sengbloh gives a performance both innocent and frightening  and finally, devastating. Sengbloh (who won the Drama Desk and Obie Awards and was Tony-nominated for her performance in Eclipsed) brings a cheerful, loving determination to Hester that makes the gradual arc of her story all the more heart-wrenching. Early in In the Blood, shes so solid and sweet-natured that  as you watch Hester embrace her wild youngsters or make up stories for them or chat encouragingly to herself while she tries to shine their unshineable shoes  you truly feel like her positivity has the power to sustain and perhaps even save her family, like love will make everything okay.

Which is complete bullshit, because things are not okay. Parks and Sengbloh  the one with her wily writing and the other with her deeply sympathetic performance  are revealing just how quickly we slip into complacency. Its an awful paradox, but because Hester is grateful, docile, uncomplaining  I been good she says again and again  we are somehow less inclined to help her. Sengbloh shows us little flashes of the agony and anger accumulating under Hesters placid surface, and then quickly packs them away again. But we know theyre there, waiting to burst from her.

The ultimate moment of insult and injury comes after a kind of dream ballet with her first lover, Chilli, who waltzes back into Hesters life after a 13-year absence, carrying a wedding dress and testing the waters for their potential reunion. As Hester slips into the dress, Sengbloh looks like a little girl getting ready for her first big party. Her eyes brim with tears as she whispers a single, awed, gut-wrenching observation: Its so clean. Sengbloh lets us see Hester giving in to the dream and giving up her defenses. She is desperate to be swept off her feet  her heart is practically leaping from her chest in an effort to fly  but we can see that the fall back to Earth will be shattering.

For the Earth of this play is unforgiving and all too familiar. Director Sarah Benson and her skillful design team have brought the harsh texture and soundscape of New Yorks streets into Signatures Alice Griffin Jewel Box Theatre. Metal, concrete, and dirty construction tarps greet us upon entry. Hesters children rifle through the ever-increasing junk pile underneath the belching garbage chute, pulling out plastic toys that someone else regarded as trash and scuttling off into their burrows with them like squirrels hoarding nuts.

With a concave gray wall that slides down into a floor like a half-pipe, In the Bloods set is made for movement, and the actors throw themselves into it. I laughed aloud when Hesters oldest daughter, Bully (Jocelyn Bioh, now full of youthful, nervous bluster), made her first entrance at the top of the wall, shrieking Mommieeeeeeeee! as she did a belly-slide straight down onto the stage. Occasionally I found myself wishing that the actors would throw themselves into the rhythms of Parkss language as intrepidly as they hurl their bodies around the set  especially in the choral sections, the words could cut just a bit more.

While its a joy to watch the actors (as Hesters children) tirelessly flailing against the sets great wall, theres also something terrible going on. Benson and scenic designer Louisa Thompson have built a heartbreaking metaphor into their playing space. Theres no reaching the top of the wall. The world that Hesters family lives in is rigged, purposefully built to force them back to the bottom over and over again. Notably, Hester mostly stays clear of the wall. Shes not a child anymore  something in her recognizes that its no game but a Sisyphean trap.

If this sounds grim, trust me, theres humor here as well. Even when shes depicting scenes of suffering, Parks is too smart a writer to paint in only dour colors. Like its sister production Fucking A, In the Blood has bright sparks of levity, including the playful performances of Hesters noisy gaggle of children, a wacky Pas de Deux between Hester and Chilli, and Montana Levi Blancos colorful (sometimes even whimsical) costumes. Parks is canny  she knows that laughter opens up the ribs so that later you can slip the knife in.

Something special is happening right now at Signature Theatre. As Parks comes to the close of her tenure with Signatures Residency One (a program that produces several plays from the body of work of a single writer over the course of a year), In the Blood and Fucking A are being presented simultaneously for the first time. Theyre not easy to watch, but theyre vital, scrappy, angry, witty, articulate. They may be almost 20 years old, but make no mistake, the productions currently playing at Signature are proof that these stories belong to our world, right now, today.

In the Blood is at the Signature Theatre Company.
Sean Spicer. Photo: Trae Patton/CBS

Sean Spicers Emmy cameo was instantly iconic  and immediately controversial. Sunday nights sudden appearance by the former White House press secretary prompted laughter and applause inside Los Angeles Microsoft Theater, but it also resulted in scorn from left-leaning Twitter and more than a few professional TV critics (including our own Matt Zoller Seitz). Detractors argue Colbert and the TV Academy normalized Spicer by allowing him to poke fun at his White House tenure. Colbert isnt talking, but according to a source on the Emmy production team, neither the comic nor his team are shocked at the response. We had eyes wide open that  there would be people who thought we shouldnt do it, the insider tells Vulture. There was no expectation everyone would love this. So why go forward with a bit likely to drum up online outrage? One word: comedy.

Colbert has established bona fides as Donald Trumps tormenter-in-chief: CBSs Late Show star has been network TVs fiercest comedic critic of both candidate and President Trump, serving up nightly takedowns of POTUS and everyone in his administration  including Spicer. And he didnt tone things down on Sundays Emmy Awards, even though past hosts have sometimes downplayed political humor in order to avoid alienating viewers on either side of the political spectrum. The bit in which Spicer appeared was, in fact, part of a bigger joke about the president: Hes so insecure, he had to order a staffer to lie about the inaugural crowd size. According to our source, enlisting Spicer to appear was a way to double down on the joke, to make the point even more effectively. We made him the joke, our production source says. We made him the joke at the Emmy Awards. In other words, as much as Colbert has become known as a Trump basher, he remains at heart at comic whos forever looking to prompt the biggest laughs and to make the biggest splash with a gag. It was in service to a joke, and [Spicer] was the joke, our source said.

Per CNN, the idea for the bit came from Colbert himself. Spicer told the New York Times Monday that Colberts Late Show executive producer Chris Licht then reached out to the exWhite House staffer to gauge his interest in appearing. Our source says that while there was not a debate in the Emmys writers room for about inviting Spicer, Team Colbert knew there would be those who criticized the decision to include Spicer in the show. The production insider, however, scoffs at the notion that inviting Spicer was in any way meant to help him rebrand or forgive his performance as White House press secretary. Why would Colbert wake up trying to find a way to normalize Sean Spicer? What possible, possible reason would he have to do that? the source said. You can only control the intention of the joke, not the interpretation.

Its worth noting that Colbert wasnt the first late-night host to give Spicer a forum in which he might possibly seem more  human. Just last week, Jimmy Kimmel conducted the first late-night interview with Spicer since his White House departure, a fact Colbert brought up when he made his own Kimmel appearance as well. Indeed, when Kimmel told Colbert a certain part of me felt sorry for Spicer, Colbert seemed surprised. Really? Colbert replied to Kimmel. He wants to be forgiven but he wont regret anything he did. You gotta regret something you did to be forgiven. Colberts comments to Kimmel seem to underscore that Colbert didnt intend to offer Spicer any sort of absolution, even if many in the audience took it that way. Colbert has yet to address the criticism of the Spicer bit; its likely if he ever does, it will come first via his own show.
A-L-I-C-I-A! The People cry from the rooftops. V-I-K-A-N-D-E-R! They continue. Then, because they are out of breath from screaming with joy, they simply whisper, I kinda forgot she was making a Tomb Raider movie? But how, I ask, could you forget about the cinematic event of March 2018, in which we finally discover what Lara Croft, Tomb Raider, was up to before she started raiding all those tombs? (According to the films synopsis, she works as a bike courier and takes college classes in London  thrilling!) The official Tomb Raider Twitter account has released the official Tomb Raider poster, in which we see Vikander, standing like a colossus athwart a crashing wave (perhaps a coded reference to director Roar Uthaugs The Wave?), ready for battle.

This isnt the Lara Croft you know. This Lara Croft wears practical attire. Shes got mad muscles. She has her hair in a ponytail so it doesnt get in her face. Shes by the ocean, but she has an ice pick, because you never know, there could be a tall, snowy mountain nearby. Tomb Raiders logo contains an arrow, because you know this Lara Croft is all about old-fashioned weaponry. There are odd glowing red things in the distance, because maybe theres magic and/or police cars in this movie, I guess? Tomb Raider will be available in real 3-D and IMAX, and I plan to see it in both. 10/10 fevered tulips.
If The Deuce pilot introduced us to the world of the series  New York City circa 1971, from Times Square to the streets of Brooklyn  as well as its principal figures, then the series second episode demonstrates how its ecosystem functions on a daily basis. Most TV writers approach world-building as an extension of an established premise or a narrative, but co-creators David Simon and George Pelecanos do the exact opposite: Narratives organically arise from their environment. Whether its inner city Baltimore or post-Katrina New Orleans or Iraq circa 2003, the goal is to establish setting, illustrate its breadth and depth, communicate the scope of inquiry, and then track the various stories within.

Needless to say, this can make for a frustrating watch for impatient viewers, but The Deuce admirably keeps the action at a clip by both deepening the established milieu and expanding the setting in Show and Prove. Episode writers Pelecanos and Richard Price illustrate how the various parties casually intersect as if its the cost of doing business: Hookers work their corners and sunlight in amateur porn; pimps collect from, and ostensibly protect, their stable of girls; cops keep the peace by 1) bringing the girls downtown when they dont have their property vouchers and 2) raiding porn shops that dont cut the loops, i.e. splice out hardcore sex from their movies. Like a body, the system functions because everything is connected.

Price and Pelecanos best express this idea during the scenes at the station, when the cops and the girls just shoot the shit while waiting to be processed. Officers Alston (Lawrence Gilliard, Jr.) and Flanagan (Don Harvey) order Chinese food for all the girls and allow them to eat it outside on the terrace before they have to eventually return to their cells when the supervisor arrives. Alston, the most sensible officer Simon and Pelecanos have introduced so far, remarks to one of the girls with a black eye that she can always go back home if she wants. Oh, shit, you know what? I completely forgot to get an education. You believe that? she snarks back. Alston smiles and shakes his head. The tenor of their exchange defines the relationship between the law and the street at that time: somewhere between begrudging acceptance and the barest amount of respect. As Vincent says, in response to why he lets prostitutes drink in his bar, At the end of the day, they gotta drink, too, just like anyone.

Show and Prove also illustrates the various transactional relationships that define the majority of the series characters. In a sense, everyones gotta pay somebody. For the girls on the street, its to their pimps. The episode primarily follows C.C. (Gary Carr) and his new girl Lori (Emily Meade) as he shows her the ropes. Its the best thread in Show and Prove by far because it captures the nuances and surprising complexity of the pimp/prostitute relationship: After sex, C.C. opens up to Lori, telling her how lonely he feels in his chosen profession because of its competitive, ruthless nature; everyone wants him to fail, from his peers to his charges.

C.C.s long monologue functions as both a sincere confession and an act. He wants to both establish a tender relationship, but also communicate that Lori best not wrong him in any way. Its a testament to Carrs performance that he can convey those competing motivations at once, all while his character is under the influence of cocaine. You ever been to France? he asks on his way out the door. Lori shakes her head. Yeah, me neither, he responds wistfully. That closing remark feels both random and a logical extension of their prior conversation; its great precisely because The Deuce never provides any explicit roadmap on how to read that exchange.

Yet, Price and Pelecanos go to lengths not to over-glamorize or romanticize the pimp/prostitute relationship. Sure, pimps perform intimacy or compassion, but its obviously all predicated upon their girls financial success on the street. Two pointedly ironic moments capture this idea best: First, Larry (Gbenga Akinnagbe), a particularly rough and demanding pimp, tries to court the independent Candy (Maggie Gyllenhaal) into coming under his wing, claiming that hes a sensitive soul, but he cant help himself from cursing out Darlene (Dominique Fishback) during his pitch. Second, C.C. watches Lori ostensibly handcuffed by an undercover cop posing as a john, but after deducing hes just a degenerate rapist, he stabs him to death outside his car. Though Lori is traumatized by the event, C.C. semi-politely demands she get back out on the corner, saying that its like falling off a bike.

Show and Prove doesnt portray the prostitute community as willfully naive or ignorant of the ugly realities, either. Theres Candy, of course, who pinch-hits for a friend in a porno short and becomes entranced by the filmmaking process (shes especially fascinated by the lighting apparatus). But shes the one girl who isnt pimped up, which opens up opportunities to control the means of production, so to speak. Look at Darlene, a girl under the thumb of the abusive Larry: Though she appears to be slow on the uptake, Darlene proves shes emotionally savvier than most. She knows how to manage Larrys volatility in public, as he comes close to attacking a reporter (Natalie Paul) snooping around the street, and also tries to read literature in her off hours. She understands that Fat Mooney (E.J. Carroll), a porn shop owner, makes 100 percent of the profits off a movie she made without her full knowledge, and does her best to stop it, albeit unsuccessfully. Meanwhile, the other girls look out for each other, understanding that an attack on one is an attack on them all.

The last major thread in the episode involves Vincent (James Franco) and his construction foreman brother-in-law Bobby (Chris Bauer, best known as Frank Sobotka on The Wire), who join forces with capo Rudy Pipilo (Michael Rispoli). They set up an arrangement where the mob will offer cash payments to Bobbys workers every Friday as opposed to the checks they receive from management that they arent able to cash until Monday. This gives Vincent and Bobby some much-needed extra money and helps Frank (Franco), Vincents brother, get out of the hole with the mob. Meanwhile, Pipilo shows Vincent a gay bar on its way out and offers him the chance to turn it around on his own. Vincent is hesitant to get further into business with Pipilo, but Rudy convinces him that hes just like any other landlord and that every business owner pays rent one way or another. Time will tell if that holds true, but considering that hes a mob boss, chances are Vincent will get more than hes bargained for.

In the end, Show and Prove demonstrates that its just another day. Alston, Flanagan, and detectives Grossman (Brian Muller) and Haddix (Ralph Macchio) listen to roll call as Rizzi (Michael Kostroff, another Wire alum) details the days violent crime in the 14th precinct: homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, rape, and so on. Meanwhile, the cops take the van out to pick up the girls on the corner yet again. The hos go in, the hos go out. Like sweeping leaves on a windy day, aint that right, officers? remarks Rodney (Method Man) as he watches the proceedings. Solid bullshit. But its that solid bullshit, and the lives of those living in and trying to escape it, that make up the world of The Deuce.

Other Tricks and Pricks

 Ernest Dickerson directed this episode. Though he previously helmed episodes of The Wire and Treme, hes arguably best known as a DP for many of Spike Lees early films like School Daze, Do the Right Thing, Jungle Fever, and Malcolm X.

 As Fat Mooneys shop is raided, he tells the cops that Sex USA, an adult film in the guise of a documentary, is playing at the Rialto while hes being charged. Itll be interesting to see how The Deuce covers the growing influence of mainstream feature-length porn and other European imports in the 70s.

 During the Viking-themed porn shoot, the director uses cold potato soup as a substitute for ejaculate. Dont squint, he tells a girl on the shoot as shes being sprayed in the face with the soup from a turkey baster. Youre supposed to love Viking cum.
By India Today Web Desk: Kangana Ranaut is one actor who does not believe in being diplomatic, even if it comes at the cost of alienating the influencers of Bollywood. She has been vocal about sexism and nepotism in the industry, and has minced no words in criticising the fragility of male egos. At a recently held event, Kangana talked about the "deep-rooted patriarchy" in Bollywood, reported Mid-Day.

advertisement

The Queen actor first established herself as a feminist, not a "man-hater". She then went on to say, "Lineage has been restricted within the males of the industry. There is a deep-rooted patriarchy."

Kangana cites an example to prove her point. "Certain things are expected of men, but sneered upon when women do it. Consider their sexual lives for instance. Having sex is fun for a man, but for a woman, it's almost criminal. Such is the general perception of the glamour world. Men brag about their Casanova sons, but when it comes to their daughters, she can't be wearing a bikini. [It is okay if] 15 bikini-clad women are hovering around him and his son, but the daughter has to comply with feudal ideas," she said.

On the work front, her film Simran hit the theatres on Friday. While critics praised Kangana's performance, the film itself got mixed reviews. Simran has collected Rs 10.65 crore so far.

ALSO WATCH: Kangana opens up on being called witch, whore and psycopath

--- ENDS ---
By India Today Web Desk: Now that The Kapil Sharma Show (TKSS) is on a break and The Drama Company (TDC) is going off air, Sunil Grover will be coming up with his new show soon on Sony TV, which will reportedly air in the time slot of TKSS/The Drama Company.

The Drama Company was shifted to 9pm slot after TKSS went off air few weeks back, owing to Kapil's health. But now that TDC too is shutting, Sunil's show will take the prime slot of 9pm.

advertisement

According to reports, Ali Asgar, Sungandha Mishra and some other team members of TDC will be seen on the show. But what has come as a surprise is that Kapil's friend Kiku Sharda, who has stood by him though thick and thin, will make an appearance on Sunil's show, reportedly. In fact, the two have already started shooting.

While 'Gutthi' and 'Palak' will reunite on the show, we are sure Kapil will be heartbroken with the news.

Sunil's new show will most likely premiere on October 1. Meanwhile, Shilpa Shetty's Super Dance Chapter 2 is all set to premiere on September 30 (8pm-9pm)

--- ENDS ---
By Vidya : Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan accused the state Governor C Vidyasagar Rao of being "politically motivated and biased." Chavan has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the sanction granted by the Governor for his prosecution in the Adarsh scam.

Chavan's lawyer Amit Desai told the division bench of Justice Ranjit More and Justice Sadhna Jadhav that "the February 2016 order passed by Governor C Vidyasagar Rao is motivated by change in political circumstances and not by any change in evidence. The order is politically biased and motivated."

advertisement

Chavan, who is currently the president of the Maharashtra Congress Committee had to step down from the chief ministers post in 2010 after serious allegations of quid pro quo were leveled against him.

Desai told the court that in December 2013 when the Governor K Sankaranarayanan refused permission to sanction probe on Chavan, the CBI accepted it and in January 2014 filed an application before court seeking to delete Chavan's name from the chargesheet.

When the high court in November 2014 dismissed application filed by CBI, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya wrote to the state government seeking review of the Governor's order. "The 2013 decision was passed after the then Governor went through the material submitted by CBI against Chavan and applied his mind. If CBI felt that the decision was wrong then CBI could have challenged it in court," he said.

He added that after the BJP came to power in Maharashtra, the CBI at the behest of the state government sought review of 2013 order of the Governor refusing sanction. "The CBI did not act on its own. We allege political bias," he said. Chavan's petition itself had alleged that the Governor's order was "arbitrary, illegal and unjust" and passed without proper application of mind" and with "malafide intentions".

In February last year, Governor Rao had granted sanction to CBI to prosecute Chavan for offences under IPC sections 120 (b) (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) and under various provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

CBI had accused Chavan of approving additional floor space index for Adarsh society in return for two flats for his relatives. He was also charged with illegally approving, as the then Revenue Minister, allotment of 40 per cent of the flats to civilians while the land was taken up to build flats for Kargil war widows.

Also Watch : Adarsh housing society scam: Defence Ministry indicts 10 senior Army officers in report

--- ENDS ---
Sarah Miller held her phone up to a new sign at Brazos Park East.

The app shed downloaded upon arriving took a picture of a QR code on the sign before bringing up a video where an instructor led her through a round of stretches.

Miller had to work through a few hiccups first as a first-time QR code user. She downloaded different apps to scan the code until she found one to work.

He jumped in the water, the Baylor University lecturer laughed, as she pointed to the instructor in the video, while she stood near the entrance of the Waco park near the parking lot.

Live Well Waco and the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District launched the QR Fit Trail System throughout 11 Waco parks.

Five 18-by-24-inch white signs are at each park labeled Station 1 through Station 5. Park visitors can download any of the free apps on their smartphone that provides a QR Code reader service. The user then points their phone at the black and white two-dimensional bar code, which then brings up a series of videos hosted by the Virginia-based company QR F.I.T. Trail. Depending on the station, the videos offer workout options to exercise a persons core, upper body, lower body and flexibility at beginner, intermediate or advanced levels.

The program offers a new way to work out, said Sujana Shah, public health education specialist. The signs are at Alta Vista Park, Bells Hill Park, Bledsoe-Miller Park, Brazos Park East, Brooklyn Park, Council Acres Park, East Waco Park, Gurley Park, Kendrick Park, Oakwood Park, and Oscar DuConge Park.

Healthy communities grant

A Texas Healthy Communities grant at just under $50,000 covered the costs associated with the project, said John Williams, city of Waco parks and recreation director. The grant requires that they report back how many people throughout the city are using the system.

Shah said the program was installed a few months ago, so usage numbers are not yet high. Results will take time, she said.

Bledsoe-Miller Park, which had the highest number of visits, saw 77 hits in June, 104 in July, 55 in August and 26 in September. The 11 parks have had more than 1,000 total visits total in the last three months, Shah said.

Williams said the program allows people the opportunity to understand more about what it means to be physically fit and healthy by working out with appropriate types of exercises. The grant covered costs for markings along the paved trail loops in nine of the 11 parks that detail healthy, fun facts, he said.

Williams said there are a number of ways to follow along with the video instructors working, including having the phone fixed around the users waist or arm, or there are a number of stands someone could purchase to watch along.

One sign at Kendrick Park states if a person were to walk one mile, they would burn off 14 regular potato chips, but if they walked 4.5 miles, they could burn off one slice of pepperoni pizza, which is 450 calories.

Positive feedback

Shah said depending on the exercise, most people could watch the video first and then copy the exercise. She said they have received a lot of positive feedback regarding the signs.

They are excited about it. They think its a really cool idea, she said. Its pretty cool to see people using it with their families.
City relaunches tourist office at Rome's main airport.

Rome's tourist information point in Terminal 3 has been reopened with more space and additional staff following refurbishment works.

The office, whose official name is the Punto Informazioni Turistiche di Roma Capitale, is open daily from 08.00-20.00 and provides tourists with information about Rome in six languages. It is located just outside the arrivals exit on the ground floor. For more details see city website.
Dileep's bail plea has been rejected by the Kerala High Court twice and the Angamaly Magistrate Court once, before this.

By India Today Web Desk: In a major setback for Malayalam actor Dileep, the Angamaly Magistrate Court today denied him bail for the fourth time. The actor, who was arrested for his involvement in the Malayalam actress abduction and assault case, has already spent 71 days in custody. He has applied for bail three times in the past and all his pleas have been struck down.

advertisement

The decision of the Angamaly Magistrate Court comes as a massive disappointment for Dileep because his film Ramaleela releases on September 28.

The defence counsel approached the Angamaly Judicial Magistrate Court after all three previous attempts to secure a bail were in vain. The argument on the debate was conducted in the magistrate's chamber on Saturday. The two-hour long closed court proceedings raised a lot of speculation about the actor's fate.

Dileep's advocate had argued that he was eligible for bail because the additional chargesheet in the case was not filed within 60 days. The prosecution's argument was that allowing Dileep a bail at this point of time could seriously jeopardise the case.

The Malayalam actress abduction case dates back to February this year, when six men barged into the popular actress's car and assaulted her, before disembarking.

Dileep was arrested on July 10 because of his alleged involvement in the case. Over the last few months, the case has seen several twists and turns.

Dileep had applied for bail thrice in the last two-and-a-half months. The Kerala High Court rejected his bail plea twice and the Angamaly Magistrate Court, once.

Sources close to Dileep say that the defence counsel may seek bail from the Kerala High Court yet again. Earlier, while submitting the plea in the Angamaly court, the defence counsel argued that Dileep is eligible for bail as he has completed 60 days in judicial custody. Also, that he has been charged with only hiring Pulsar Suni (the prime accused in the case) to take nude photographs of the victim.

The Angamaly Magistrate Court had extended his custody till September 28, the day when his film Ramaleela is set for a release.

(With inputs from Gopi Krishnan Unnithan)

ALSO WATCH: Dileep's bail plea rejected by the Kerala HC >

--- ENDS ---
Culpability for two decades of policy paralysis going back to the Howard government's failure to ratify the Kyoto Protocol  setting the tone for an aimless debate on climate and energy  rests with the political class of all stripes, including the hapless Greens.

Liddell Power station, which AGL so far plans to close in 2022  despite federal government efforts to keep it going. Credit:Liam Driver

In a variation of the children's party game, pass the parcel, or, should we say, pass the chicken, Malcolm Turnbull and his Energy Minister, Josh Frydenberg, are seeking to impose on their political opponents responsibility for an energy mess, including crippling power bills.

Let's start with the smelly, dead chicken the Turnbull government is seeking to hang around the Shorten opposition's neck.

In their failure back in 2009 to support reasonable proposals for an emissions trading scheme known as the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS), the Greens scarred the Rudd prime ministership, contributed to Turnbull's demise as opposition leader and helped prolong a lost decade in energy policy.

Our purpose is not to argue the merits, or otherwise, of the case for sustaining AGL's Liddell power station in the Hunter Valley beyond a five-year shelf life, but to ask a simple question.

How did we get into this mess, and how do we get out of it?

In answering this question, history is important.

As far back as the 1990s the Coalition debated in its internal processes the merits of an emissions trading scheme as a means of setting a price on carbon, thereby constructing a rational energy policy for the 21st century. Several proposals were discussed in cabinet, one in 2000 and the other in 2003.
They are two communities that often find themselves exposed to vitriol and hate masquerading as respectful debate. Muslims and gays, unlikely bedfellows in some circumstances, know the battle scars of discrimination and prejudice.

On Monday night, in the offices of the AIDS Council of NSW, a campaigning outfit called Muslims for Marriage Equality celebrated its official launch. Its footprint is modest - founder Fahad Ali estimates 250 people have expressed interest in volunteering nationally, and the group has 1500 followers on Facebook - but its goals are somewhat grander: to shirk the conservative cloak that surrounds Islam and show the flock does not necessarily follow the leader.

Mr Ali, who is gay and a practising Muslim, concedes there is tension between his sexual identity and faith.

"The orthodox Islamic position is quite anti-gay. I think the Muslim community generally has a problem with homosexuality," he says.
Patients taking a commonly prescribed immunosuppressant are being urged to consult their doctor after two people using it died during a clinical study.

Methylprednisolone, first used in the 1950s, is a commonly prescribed drug for a wide range of conditions including arthritis, allergies and cancer. But it also has potentially dangerous side-effects.

Methylprednisolone was first used in the 1950s.

Experts say anyone using it should continue, as it is dangerous to stop using the drug suddenly.

But Professor Vlado Perkovic, one of the authors of the study, which was released last month, advised users to see their doctor to "ask if the benefits of this treatment outweigh the risk".
WA Police have warned Perth's clown pranksters they could face criminal charges following an increase in sightings around the Perth metropolitan area.

"Clowns" have allegedly been spotted in Kwinana, Byford, Forrestfield, Waikiki and Kingsway, and some residents have expressed concerns following reports the masked people have armed themselves with knives, shovels and even fake guns.

Police have been forced to attend a number of calls from concerned residents about the pranksters. Credit:Facebook

The Clown Hunters Perth Facebook page has recorded a number of alleged incidents of people dressed up as clowns and supposedly carrying weapons.

Police were reportedly called to a toilet block in Kingsway on Saturday evening to deal with a prankster, and Sergeant Andrew Maher warned those who participate in the so-called "purge" could find themselves in serious trouble for wasting police resources.
A thousand gold industry members have gathered at a rally in Western Australia's mining capital Kalgoorlie to protest the McGowan government's proposed gold royalties increase.

The new Labor government has proposed an increase in the gold royalty rate from 2.5 per cent to 3.75 per cent , when the spot price eclipses $A1200 per ounce ($US969.70/oz), as part of a raft of measures in its first state budget meant to claw back revenue.

About 1000 people gathered to protest the State Government's royalties plan. Credit:Eddie Jim

Treasurer Ben Wyatt says he has paid "a lot of attention" to the industry and the protest but defended the government's plan to take an extra $20 an ounce of profit off gold miners for budget repair as "reasonable".

"I asked treasury to analyse 34 mines ... which counts for about 95 per cent of gold production in WA," he told 6PR radio, adding the mines were making about $440 per ounce at the current gold price of $A1650.
One theory about why today's dominant internet giants have struggled to get a grip on unsavoury parts of their networks, such as terrorist material, fake news and explicit pictures, is that it is simply not in their interest.

For Facebook and Google, finding the right way to censor online content - the line between extremist propaganda and newsworthy images, or between deliberately fake news and a merely misleading story - is harder than just not doing much about it, especially when their massive size means they have to rely more on technology instead of humans to police their sites.

Facebook Credit:Bloomberg

Overzealous algorithms that block legitimate posts and links, irritating users, represent more of a danger than over-tolerant ones that allow illegal or unpleasant content. Besides, that content is never created by Google or Facebook, they are merely conduits for it.

Above all, there have been few financial consequences - either to advertising revenues or in the form of legal penalties - for failures.
Seven men, inspired by the movie Special 26, posed as Income Tax officers and tried looting a Delhi family. They failed and were caught thanks to their listless acting skills - true story.

By Mail Today Bureau: Inspired by the movie Special 26, seven men posing as officers of I-T department barged into a house in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar. When the officers extorted Rs 20 lakh cash, the family members suspected a foul play and with the help of the locals nabbed the imposters.

The incident took place on Sunday morning when the family of Ramesh was having breakfast. Seven men, who posed as IT department officers, entered inside the house by showing fake ID cards.

advertisement

Ramesh was also shown a document that mentioned that the IT department had asked to conduct a raid as there has been information of about illicit cash worth Rs 20 crore in the house.

Ramesh said that as soon as they entered, they locked the doors from inside, and closed all the windows. They seized all the mobile phones of the family members.

"Then they began to search the house. They checked each and every drawer including the kitchen's cupboard. All the boxes, be it ornament boxes or any other, everything was scanned thoroughly. They swiped away Rs 20 lakh cash that was kept in the house," the complainant told police.

As per the family members, after half an hour of their search, the language of all the seven men speaking and the physical gestures while conducting the alleged raid made them suspicious. After sensing the foul play, they all raised an alarm and the locals gathered immediately.

With the help of the neighbours, all of them were nabbed and the police was informed.

"When the police team reached the spot, they found around 100 people were standing outside the house and about 15-20 persons were inside. Six of the accused were nabbed by the locals and were thrashed. All of them were handed over to the police," said a senior police official adding that one of them managed to escape.

The accused have been identified as Mitesh Kumar, who claimed himself as Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax, Naunhyal, Yogesh Kumar, Govind Sharma and Amit Aggarwal posed as income tax officials while Parvinder claimed himself to be the driver.

However, one Kailash managed to flee in his Honda City car, and the hunt is on to nab him

It was learnt that they came to the residence in a TATA safari bearing a Haryana registration number and also a sticker of Government of India. The car has been recovered, said police.

A case under the sections 170/365/451/468/471/384/323/34 of the Indian Penal Code has been registered at Malviya Nagar Police Atation. Further investigation is underway, the police said.

Also Watch:

Fake IT officials caught while trying to loot Delhi family, get roughed up

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
During her day-long interaction with scores of delegations, Mufti outlined a comprehensive road map for the holistic development of Pulwama town and other areas of the district.

By PTI, Press Trust of India: In the first major public initiative by the state government in south Kashmir after last year's unrest, J-K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday spent a whole day in the restive Pulwama area, and conducted an open public grievance redressal camp.

Mufti heard and interacted with more than 100 deputations till late in the evening, and in many cases, issued on-the-spot directions for the immediate resolution of citizen's problems, an official spokesperson said.

advertisement

The deputations raised issues of road connectivity, drinking water facilities, rationalisation of territorial distribution of villages, augmentation of health and educational infrastructure, development of tourism, and completion of ongoing schemes.

Mufti was briefed on development activities in Pulwama and Shopian districts, the spokesperson said.

ROAD MAP

During her day-long interaction with scores of delegations, Mufti outlined a comprehensive road map for the holistic development of Pulwama town and other areas of the district.

She said the thrust of the existing and new developmental initiatives sketched out for the district included augmentation of connectivity, administrative infrastructure, health care facilities, educational infrastructure, power, irrigation, and horticulture.

Mufti said the issue wasn't the lack of resources, but the capacity to spend money earmarked for developmental projects.

"We shall have to develop adequate capacity at the administrative level to expedite execution of developmental works," she said.

Peace and stability are important to ensure development at the grassroots level, she added.

Mufti said Pulwama had suffered a lot economically and educationally due to disturbances, and that the time had come to rebuild the area with focused attention.

--- ENDS ---
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said demonetisation and GST have together negatively affected the economy.

By Indo-Asian News Service: Both demonetisation and GST have affected India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth adversely, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Monday.

"Both demonetisation and GST have had some impact on GDP," Manmohan Singh, who has earlier said the Indian economy has been running on only "one engine" of public spending, told CNBC-TV18 channel.

"Both would affect the informal sector, the small scale sector that are responsible for 40 per cent of of GDP... 90 per cent of employment is in the informal sector.

"So when 86 per cent of currency is withdrawn from circulation, plus GST, which was put in practice in haste.. lot of glitches are now coming up, it was bound to affect GDP growth adversely," he said.

Former Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan estimated earlier this month that the country's GDP had taken a hit of between 1 to 2 per cent due to demonetisation, which translated to a sum of around Rs 2 lakh crore.

Also Watch : The big fuel pinch: Petrol, diesel prices skyrocket

advertisement

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Vienna, Sep 18 (PTI) Nuclear energy is an inevitable option for India and the world, the countrys top atomic scientist said today, but cautioned that it should be harnessed while preventing proliferation.

Sekhar Basu, Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission said this on the sidelines of an event was organised by the Permanent Mission of India at the UN office in Vienna ahead of the annual general conference of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

advertisement

The event was attended by representatives of 55 countries, including Pakistan.

His comments come in the backdrop of North Korea firing a ballistic missile over Japan on August 29 and September 15, in a major escalation of tensions by Pyongyang.

On September 3, North Korea carried out a sixth nuclear test, sending tensions soaring over its weapons ambitions and causing global concern.

"India believes that nuclear energy is an inevitable option not only for it but for the world and there is a need for augmenting human resources for sustaining the large-scale deployment of nuclear energy," Basu said.

The current capacity of 21 Indian nuclear power reactors is 6780 MW and this roughly constitutes 3 per cent of total power generated in the country.

Basu, who is the secretary of Department of Atomic Energy, which controls all the nuclear energy establishments in the country, said India has established the Global Center for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP) to promote "safe, secure, proliferation resistant and sustainable nuclear energy for the service of the mankind" through global partnership.

"India also believes that this has to be done not only in a safe and secure manner but should also address the issues of proliferation resistance and sustainability," he said. PTI PR IKA

--- ENDS ---
WSU Language Matters Series to Focus on Endangered Languages

September 19, 2017

OGDEN, Utah  Weber State University will invite a trio of linguistic experts to speak out for the preservation of endangered languages in the three-part Language Matters Series Sept. 26, Oct. 3-4 and Oct. 9-10. All lectures are free, and the public is welcome.

The series, titled Endangered Languages: Problems and Solutions, will bring together three accomplished linguists: Lyle Campbell, Marianna Di Paolo and Felice Coles. Each will discuss the importance of preserving languages before they are lost to history.

The prospect of languages going extinct has galvanized some linguists to concentrate their research on those languages, said Mark LeTourneau, WSU English professor and series coordinator. For example, Marianna Di Paolo is working on revitalizing Shoshoni, while Felice Coles has documented a dialect of Spanish (Isleno) spoken by a small community in Louisiana.

More than 7,000 languages are currently spoken around the world. Of those, 347 are used by about 94 percent of the population. Experts predict, at the current rate of decline, within 100 years, the total number of languages spoken will be approximately 300.

Lecture 1, Lyle Campbell

Language Matters Series presenters each will focus on a different aspect of endangered languages. Lyle Campbell will kick off the series with Endangered Languages: Why This Matters to You. His lectures will be held Sept. 26 from noon-1:15 p.m. in the Stewart Library Hetzel-Hoellein Room 321, and from 7-8:30 p.m. in Elizabeth Hall room 229.

Campbell received his Ph.D. from UCLA and has taught all over the world. He has published 21 books and 200 articles. He founded and directed the Catalogue of Endangered Languages from 2009 to 2016. He specializes in language documentation and endangered languages, historical linguistics, indigenous languages of the Americas, typology and Uralic languages. Campbell is an emeritus professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Lecture 2, Marianna Di Paolo

Marianna Di Paolo will focus on Language Revitalization: Rebuilding the Shoshoni Speech Community. As a sociolinguist, her research focuses on sociophonetics (study of sociolinguistic aspects of speech sounds), variation and change in Western American English and in Shoshoni, and the revitalization and documentation of the Shoshoni language. She will present Oct. 3 from 7-8:30 p.m. in Elizabeth Hall Room 229 and Oct. 4 from 10:30-11:20 a.m. in Lind Lecture Hall Room 129.

Di Paolo works as an associate professor and director of the Center for American Indian Languages in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Utah and as a research associate for the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.

Lecture 3, Felice Coles

Felice Coles will complete the series with her discussion Put It in Stone If You Have to: Preserving Endangered Languages Through Documentation. Lectures will be held Oct. 9 from 9:30-10:20 a.m. in the Stewart Library Hetzel-Hoellein Room 321 and Oct. 10 from 7-8:30 p.m. in Elizabeth Hall Room 229.

Coles is a professor of Spanish and linguistics in the Department of Modern Languages at the University of Mississippi. Her research interests include the traditional Isleno Spanish dialect of Louisiana, Hispanic sociolinguistics and language obsolescence. Currently, she is editor of the Southern Journal of Linguistics.

For those interested in attending these lectures, this is a subject that is important to many fields of study, LeTourneau said. When a language dies, its culture dies with it: its literature, its history, its botany, its zoology, its forms of social or family organization. Thus, scholars and scientists across the disciplines have a stake in the survival of languages facing extinction. Documenting and revitalizing languages is indispensable to that project.

WSU's Linguistics Minor

For students interested in linguistics, WSU offers a 21-credit-hour linguistics minor consisting of 18 credit hours of coursework and a three-hour capstone class. The goal of the program is to give students a thorough understanding of the field and provide them with relevant experience for their careers.

The linguistics minor, started in 2008, is an interdisciplinary minor involving eight departments  anthropology, English, psychology, teacher education, foreign language, communication, computer science and philosophy  from four WSU colleges. The program is open to all WSU students and complements many majors because of its wide applicability.

Linguistics is sought after by law schools and graduate programs because of its interdisciplinary nature, LeTourneau said. Linguistics enters into every conceivable intellectual or cultural endeavor.

Linguistics students often pursue careers in education, computer science, technology development, business, marketing and anthropology.

For more information on the minor, visit weber.edu/linguisticsminor.

Visit ethnologue.com for more information on efforts to preserve languages around the world.

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
Fort Polk, LA (71446)

Today

Cloudy with occasional rain during the afternoon. High 52F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly this evening. Thunder possible. Low near 40F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%.
2014 was the year Prime Minister Narendra Modi was elected to power after the BJP won its biggest ever mandate in the general elections that year.

By India Today Web Desk: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said the Centre's stand that Rohingya Muslims are a security threat is a post-2014 development, at least in his home state, where a large section of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar have been living for a long time.

"This threat, at least in J&K, is a post-2014 development. No such intelligence reports ever came up for discussion in Unified HQ meetings," the National Conference leader tweeted shortly after the Centre told the Supreme Court the Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their countinous stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

advertisement

2014 was the year Prime Minister Narendra Modi was elected to power after the BJP won its biggest ever mandate in the general elections that year.

The violent attacks - United Nations has called it ethnic cleansing - by Myanmar armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingyas from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence are settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

However, earlier today, in an affidavit filed before the Supreme Court, the government said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

"As evident from the constitutional guarantee flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution, the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as well as right to move freely throughout the territory of India is available only to the citizens of India... No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this Court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general...," the affidavit filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The government response was sought by the apex court following a plea, filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR). The two had claimed they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

WATCH: Many Rohingyas have links with terror groups, Pakistan's ISI, Govt tells Supreme Court

--- ENDS ---
Mississippi man accused of threatening guests with rifle at LaCenter motel
Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required.

Your Full Name: (optional)

Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required.
By Paul Schaumburg, Graves County Schools Sep. 17, 2017 | 08:47 PM | MURRAY, KY

"This Construction Career Day is really reaching some level of maturity," said Danny Claiborne, chairman of the Institute of Engineering at Murray State University. He spoke as dozens of high school students recently intermingled with professional construction workers in the William Cherry Expo Center. "Its primary purpose is to let young people see the skills trades and all the industry related to construction. There are so many different kinds of subcontractors and skill levels in different industries that these young people don't know. Their high school vocational schools do a good job of exposing them to some entry-level positions; this career day then exposes them to the diversity of the construction industry. Many of the students will be very serious about it and make some important contacts here today."

Major pathways leading to success in construction include trade union apprenticeship and certification programs, community and technical college two-year Associate of Applied Science degrees, and especially for construction management, four-year university bachelor's degrees. "I think there's even a fourth tier potentially," Claiborne said. "Many of these students could step right out of high school with the skill level they've developed at their area technology center and go straight into an entry-level job."

Claiborne added, "We're seeing after seven years of doing this, probably 25 percent of the MSU students volunteering now attended this event while in high school. In addition, some of our MSU students will enter positions of managing workers in these skilled trades. They see the whole industry here and where they themselves might fit into it."

At MSU, Claiborne noted, "The administration is becoming more engaged and seeing how important it is to our entire western Kentucky region. We're seeing now that the shortage is as bad as it ever has been in this region. We're almost in a desperate mode. The jobs are here and the students don't have to drive to another state to get great-paying jobs unless they want to move."

Participating high school students came from 18 area technology centers and 25 school systems, said Chris Nelson, executive vice-president of the Associated General Contractors of Western Kentucky. "The best part is it connects them to professionals in the field, so that the students then have direct contacts with the construction industries," he said, numbering participating construction industry vendors at 33, the highest participation rate for the event yet, especially compared to 22 vendors that first year. The number of participating students the first year has doubled, from 800 to 1,600 in its seventh year.

"Our contractors have gotten together to publicize the industry to students even more," Nelson said. "We're featuring a tech student of the week in the Paducah Sun newspaper; each will come from one of the seven area technology centers and we'll have a banquet at the end of the school year with scholarship winners and gifts of tools for those entering the workforce."

Another Construction Career Day perineal visitor is Joel Crider, the electricity instructor for 26 years at the Mayfield-Graves County ATC. "After retirement, I've started to work for the AGC of Western Kentucky as workforce coordinator," he said. "My job is to try to get students exposed to and interested in the construction trades. So, I'll do a lot of coordination between contractors and schools, getting contractors into the schools and schools on to the job sites with shadowing, cooperative work programs, and things such as that."

Crider concluded, "There's not any one best route for any student to prepare for the workforce. The construction trades are so open now that they are in need of good employees. So, we're trying to find people who don't know what they want to do yet, but learn that good careers are available and they can stay here if they like or find work in other places, too."
By West Kentucky Star Staff Sep. 18, 2017 | 12:09 PM | GRAVES COUNTY, KY

Kentucky State Police arrested a Graves County woman Sunday following a burglary investigation.According to state police, troopers responded at around 4:15 p.m. to a report of two people acting suspiciously at the intersection of Highway 1241 and Highway 408. Upon the arrival of troopers, they found 42-year-old Marcy Redden of Melber. The man reported to be with her had fled prior to their arrival.

Troopers said Redden had property taken from a nearby business, as well as the tools used to gain entry. She was also reportedly in possession of drugs and paraphernalia.

Redden was arrested and charged with 3rd degree burglary (complicity), receiving stolen property under $500 (complicity), possession of burglars tools (complicity), 1st degree possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was lodged in the Graves County Jail.
Advertisement

By The Associated Press

Sep. 16, 2017 | ST. LOUIS, MO

By The Associated Press Sep. 16, 2017 | 09:00 AM | ST. LOUIS, MO

Activists say they will meet again Saturday to plan further protests after the acquittal of a white former St. Louis police officer in the fatal shooting of a black man.



Hundreds protested Friday. They marched for hours in mostly peaceful demonstrations, until a broken window at the mayor's home and escalating tensions led riot-gear-clad officers to lob tear gas to disperse the crowds.



Activists had for weeks threatened civil disobedience if Jason Stockley were not convicted in the 2011 death of 24-year-old Anthony Lamar Smith. That stirred fears of civil unrest and the erecting of barricades around police headquarters, the courthouse where the trial was held and other potential protest sites.



More than 20 arrests were made by early Friday evening. Police reported that 10 officers had suffered injuries by the end of the night.




By PTI: Geneva

By Sajjad Hussain

Islamabad, Sep 18 (PTI) Pakistan today summoned the Swiss Ambassador to lodge protest over the display of anti-Pakistan posters in Geneva, Radio Pakistan reported.

Ambassador Thomas Kolly was summoned by the Foreign Office in the wake of some posters, which read "Free Balochistan", emerging in Geneva. The poster campaign was apparently orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a banned entity in Pakistan.

advertisement

Officials said the Switzerland government has been urged to take action against moves which are against the sovereignty of Pakistan.

Earlier, the Pakistans Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva demanded that the government of Switzerland take strict actions against those involved in the act.

In his letter, the Permanent Representative of the Mission, Farrukh Amil, said the use of Swiss soil by terrorist and violent secessionists for nefarious designs against Pakistan and its 200 million people is totally unacceptable.

He said terrorists or elements linked with terrorists operating openly in the peaceful and serene city of Geneva for their propaganda campaigns is a matter of grave concern.

The Ambassador added that Swiss authorities should be alert about presence of BLA terrorists, or elements linked with them, in Geneva.

Amil also demanded an investigation into the campaign with a view to blocking its recurrence and expressed hope that Swiss authorities will proceed against the local accomplices of the BLA for supporting a terror group. PTI SH KIS AKJ KIS

--- ENDS ---
"A lot of people, they can't even visualize themselves working for NASA or being an astronaut, but it's definitely possible." Christopher Liu - Yupik NativeThousands of miles to the south of us, engineers at NASA are hard at work on the NeMO Mission, the next orbiter mission to Mars. This summer they got a little help from an engineering intern from Bethel, and something called the Muktuk Plot.Growing up in Bethel, Christopher Liu says that he was a quiet kid with a perfectionist streak who was always passionate about math."I think I just continued to maintain this sense of curiosity," Liu said. "About the world, how it works."Today, after years of hard work, hes studying electrical engineering as a graduate student at Stanford University in California.This summer, Liu landed an internship with NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Or, more specifically, a desk at Division 39, Section 392, where Liu crunched numbers for the next Mars mission.The shop that Liu found himself in was surprisingly diverse, but to his knowledge he was the only Alaska Native on staff. Liu says that there arent many Native American people in his field and that he did what he could to introduce his colleagues to Yupik ways."I shared some pikes, uquq, seal, and dried fish with some of the other JPL employees," Liu said. "And akutaq as well. And they were pretty happy to try it."As he snacked on akutaq in NASA's basement, Liu chose to zero in on an issue that he calls the missed thrust problem. When NASA launches its next orbiter it will be preprogrammed with the most efficient route to Mars, but it's trip will be treacherous as it hurtles through space. The unpredictable can occur: a volley of cosmic rays, a missed thruster boost, and it's not something that a NASA engineer can go out there and fix. If an unexpected event occurs, the spacecraft will be programmed to go into safe mode. Its thrusters will turn off, and its software will wait for further instructions as NASA tries to plot a new course from Earth."It shouldn't be a barrier," he said, referring to living in the Delta. "A lot of people, they can't even visualize themselves working for NASA or being an astronaut, but it's definitely possible. And it's something that should excite students who are currently in school."
FALL COLOR EXPECTED TO BE AVERAGE OR BETTE

NOT REALLY IMPACTED MUCH BY HURRICANE IRMA

As the leaves change color in western North Carolina, green is the big color for most businesses.

October is one of the biggest months for businesses as tourists flock to the area to view the reds, oranges and yellows of the fall.

Western Carolina University economist Steve Morse told the Asheville Citizen-Times that October is like Black Friday in mountains of western North Carolina.

A recent economic impact study from Tourism Economics found that Buncombe County attracted nearly 11 million visitors last year. Those visitors spent nearly $2 billion.

Marla Tambellini with the Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau said the fall foliage season is estimated to be responsible for about 12 percent of hotel occupancy for the year. She said demand is running ahead of last year's pace.

Photosynbthesis is the big factor that determines fall leaf colorf, according to a biology professor at Western Carolina University...and Professor Beverly Collins says its been a very good year for chlorophyll and photosynthesis.

Western North Carolina typically has one of the longest fall color seasons in the nation, due largely to the changes in elevations throughout the region...with fall color starting early (in earl;y Septembedr at some of the highest elevations) and last into late October or even early November at the lowest elevations.

Tourism from the fall color season is historically critical to the economy of Henderson County.
By PTI: Geneva

(EDS: Updating with Foreign Office statement)

From Sajjad Hussain

Islamabad, Sep 18 (PTI) Pakistan today summoned Switzerlands ambassador-designate to lodge protest over the display of anti-Pakistan posters in Geneva, the Foreign Office said.

Ambassador-designate Thomas Kolly was summoned by the Foreign Office after some posters, reading "Free Balochistan", were displayed in Geneva. The poster campaign was apparently orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a banned entity in Pakistan.

advertisement

The Foreign Office in a statement said that Kolly met Additional Secretary (Europe) Zaheer A Janjua.

"A strong protest was lodged with the ambassador on allowing the use of Swiss territory by elements linked with a terrorist organisation perpetrating terrorism and violence in Pakistan," it said.

It was underlined that these posters had been "sponsored by a terrorist organisation proscribed by Pakistan as well as some other countries."

The envoy was asked to convey to his government Pakistans strong protest on allowing its space to a terrorist organisation to carry out activities against Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, in contravention of the UN Charter and international law, the statement said.

The Swiss government was urged that as host country and a close partner, action should be taken against the perpetrators of such a malicious campaign.

Meanwhile, Pakistans Permanent Mission to United Nations at Geneva demanded Swiss government to take strict actions against the culprits involved in this act.

In his letter, the Permanent Representative of the Mission, Farrukh Amil, said the use of Swiss soil by terrorist and violent secessionists for nefarious designs against Pakistan and its 200 million people is totally unacceptable.

He said that the terrorists or elements linked with terrorists operate openly in the peaceful and serene city of Geneva for their propaganda campaigns is a matter of grave concern.

The ambassador said that "Swiss authorities should be alert about presence of Balochistan Liberation Army terrorists or elements linked with such terrorists in Geneva."

Amil also demanded an investigation into the campaign with a view to blocking its recurrence and expressed hope that Swiss authorities will proceed against the local accomplices of the BLA for supporting a terror group. PTI SH KIS AKJ PMS

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: By Aditi Khanna

London, Sept 18 (PTI)Scotland Yards counter-terrorism officers today stepped up their investigation into the "bucket bomb" on a London Underground train and continued questioning the two suspects arrested in connection with last weeks blast that left 30 people wounded.

The identities of the 18-year-old and 21-year-old, being held on suspicion of terrorism offences, are yet to be officially revealed but it has emerged that both are refugees who had lived in the same foster home in Sunbury, Surrey, south-east England, which has been the focal point of police raids and searches over the weekend.

advertisement

The younger man arrested at Dover ferry port on Saturday morning is an Iraqi refugee and the 21-year-old arrested later in the day has been named locally as Yahyah Farroukh, a Syrian refugee fostered by the same elderly couple from Sunbury ? Penelope and Ronald Jones.

With the arrest of the suspects, the UK Home Secretary Amber Rudd announced that the countrys terror treat level, which had been raised to its highest at "critical", would be lowered back to "severe" as "sufficient progress has been made" into the investigation.

"There is still much more to do but this greater clarity and this progress has led JTAC ? the independent body that assess threat ? to come to the judgement that an attack is no longer imminent," said Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, the UK?s National Lead for Counter- Terrorism Policing.

"The military support we have had in place under Operation Temperer will start to phase out as we move through the coming week," he said.

Farroukh was stopped by Metropolitan Police officers outside a fried chicken shop in the Hounslow area of west London on Saturday night, where searches are still ongoing.

Officers were also searching an address understood to be Farroukhs current home in Stanwell, Surrey, close to Heathrow airport.

The Joneses have been respected foster parents for almost 40 years and looked after up to 300 children, including eight refugees.

"One thing I understand is that he (the 18-year-old) was an Iraqi refugee who came here aged 15 ? his parents died in Iraq," said Ian Harvey, Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council, which covers the Sunbury area.

Of the other suspect, he added: "I think it is widely known that this person who lives at (the Stanwell) property was a former foster child at the property which was raided".

According to a Facebook profile thought to belong to Farroukh, he is originally from Damascus, in Syria, and studied English for speakers of other languages at West Thames college, near the Stanwell property.

advertisement

The profile also claims that he worked for an events company in London.

Meanwhile, CCTV footage has emerged of a man in a red cap in Sunbury carrying a Lidl supermarket bag, similar to the one the improvised explosive device was hidden in when it exploded on a Tube train in west Londons Parsons Green station on September 15 morning, injuring 30 people.

The man was seen on camera leaving a house which police later searched.

A key aspect of the investigation has focused on CCTV, with officers combing through footage to establish who planted the device, and when and where it was placed on the train. PTI AK SMJ AKJ SMJ

--- ENDS ---
Pradyuman's father has said the school should remain closed until the Central Bureau of Investigation completes a preliminary investigation into his son's murder.

By Shalini Lobo, Ankit Tyagi, Chirag Gothi, Kumar Kunal: As Gurgaon's Ryan International School re-opened after a ten-day shutdown, the man accused of murdering one of its students, seven-year-old Pradyuman Thakur, was produced today in a special CBI court.

Ashok, a school bus conductor, allegedly slit Pradyuman's throat in a washroom earlier this month. He was taken to court along with the regional head and HR head of the group of educational institutions Ryan International belongs to.

advertisement

Ashok, the main accused, alleged that police had physically assaulted him in custody. As for the two school officials, their lawyers moved a bail application, citing a bailable section of the POCSO (Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences) Act.

The court, on its part, determined that the documents submitted by Gurgram's assistant commissioner of police were incomplete, and asked him to bring the complete documents to a 3:30 pm hearing.

'SCHOOL SHOULD BE CLOSED UNTIL CBI COMPLETES PRELIMINARY PROBE'

Ryan International, which has faced furious protests by parents, will be run by the Haryana government for three months. Pradyuman's father has said the school should remain closed until the CBI - which the ML Khattar administration has asked to take over the investigation of Pradyuman's murder - completes a preliminary probe. He worries that evidence could be tampered with.

"They have (already) tried to tamper with evidence. They have tried to remove blood stains (from Pradyuman's wound) from the floor," Barun Thakur told India Today.

He's written to the Haryana Police to insist that the school be closed.

"(The) CBI is yet to take charge of investigation and to visit crime place and also yet to sanitize the school premise. At this stage opening the school hastily shall not be a wise decision as it will effect destruction of the entire available evidences, forensic materials and devastation of entire scene of crime," his letter read.

A student said attendance was thin today. At the time when this report was first filed - 10:52 am - some parents had already come to take their children home.

'PRESENT A CASE FOR REMAINING A CBSE SCHOOL'

Meanwhile, the CBSE has asked Ryan International to explain - within a couple of weeks - why its affiliation to the board shouldn't be revoked.

It says the school flouted several rules, and asked why staff and students were using the same washroom.

--- ENDS ---
It's expected to be a full house Monday night in Grass Lake.

The Grass Lake School Board will hold a meeting at 7 o'clock at the George Long Elementary media center to fill a vacancy on the board.

But fireworks are expected regarding a transgender student policy.

A Grass Lake activist group is planning to be in attendance to protest the school board's policy regarding a transgender student.

A parent has pulled their child from the school after Grass Lake schools allowed a transgender student to use the bathroom that he identified with.

Even though tonight's board meeting is to choose a new trustee, it's likely the transgender debate will come up.

News 10's Christopher Lane will be at the meeting with an update on the conversation.

To the right is a link to a previous story about the parent that removed their 5 year old from the school over this issue.
The Winona County Courthouse will hold an open house from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24.

The event is hosted by the Winona County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) in celebration of its 10th anniversary, as well as the fifth anniversary of the Drug Court of Winona Country. The CJCC works through its Community Outreach and Diversity Committee and in partnership with event sponsors, including the Drug Court of Winona County, the Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP), the Winona County Attorneys Crime Victims Services Office, Project Fine and the Winona County Historical Society.

The open house features many different activities. These include:

At 1 p.m., an actual Drug Court of Winona County drug court session and a re-creation of a recent drug court graduation.

At 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., performances of a mock jury trial illuminating the criminal consequences of Parents Who Host, Lose the Most, an alcohol and substance abuse prevention campaign of ASAP that puts a parent on trial for serving alcohol at a party and allowing teenagers to drink at the party. The mock trial features performances by actual criminal justice professionals, but visitors can volunteer to play some of the parts, and everyone gets a chance to decide the verdict.

A self-guided tour of the courthouse. The tour begins at the open house entrance to the courthouse on 3rd Street, where free courthouse guidebooks will be available to help visitors navigate through various learning stations about past and present aspects of courthouse functions and other parts of the justice system in Winona County. Each learning station will be staffed by one of more volunteer guides to provide more in-depth information.

Spanish and Hmong interpreters will be available to assist visitors who would like assistance.
A rural Fountain City, Wis., man accused of firearm crimes having to do with a shooting incident inside his home in June was now looking at domestic abuse charges stemming from an alleged incident that happened in August.

New complaints filed in Buffalo County Circuit Court accuse 53-year-old David R. Wieczorek of setting fire to several boxes of personal property belonging to a woman that was living at his house.

Charges accuse Wieczorek of disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property involving domestic abuse as well as one count of felony bail jumping, according to courthouse records.

A sheriffs deputy dispatched to Wieczoreks house along Chicken Valley Road in the Town of Buffalo on Aug. 21 was told that three or four boxes of packed personal belongings were burned in an outdoor fire pit.

Deputy Joseph Bresette filed a police report saying he was told that the woman was moving out and had boxes packed with belongings that included sentimental items and assorted household goods.

Wieczorek has a preliminary court hearing scheduled Oct. 4 on a felony charge accusing him of illegal possession of a firearm by a felon in June.

The felony charge and misdemeanor charges of operating a firearm while intoxicated and endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon were filed after police responded to a 911 call to Wieczoreks residence around 4:30 a.m. on June 5.

A woman told police that Wieczorek discharged a firearm inside the house, firing two shots into a kitchen ceiling, according to court complaints.

There were no reported injuries. Police said several firearms and boxes of ammunition were found in a garage and residence, including a short-barreled shotgun.

The court recently issued an injunction against Wieczorek after receiving a petition seeking a temporary restraining order for domestic abuse. The injunction prohibited Wieczorek from engaging in specified conduct.

A court hearing on the domestic abuse disorderly conduct and damage to property charges was scheduled for Sept. 20.

Buffalo County District Attorney Tom Clark is prosecuting the case. Wieczoreks defense attorney is James Koby.
No one was injured or charged immediately following shots fired on Winonas west end Friday.

Police spoke to a 26-year-old Winona woman who confirmed that she fired three shots into the air to scare away a group of people.

Police were in the area at 10 p.m. Friday responding to a call of a fight near Pelzer and Seventh streets when the call was changed into a report of shots fired.

At the scene, police discovered several bullet casings and spoke with witnesses who said a woman fired a gun but did not hit anything.

Around 10:30 p.m., police spoke with a woman on the 1750 block of West Seventh Street who had a permit to carry a gun, as well as a 9 mm Smith and Wesson pistol which had ammunition in it that matched cases found where shots were fired.

The woman said that she was in an argument with some people, and it escalated. She said some used pepper spray.

Eventually, she said she was encircled by people and had been hit with a pole when she fired three shots into the air and everyone ran away.

As of Monday morning there were no charges filed and no one in custody.
By PTI: buring

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh today reiterated his demand for bonus on paddy procurement from the central government to incentivise farmers against stubble burning.

The burning of stubble causes large-scale air pollution not only in Punjab, but also across the whole of north India.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Singh sought incentives for farmers to dissuade them from burning paddy straw. He previously wrote to Modi on the issue in July.

advertisement

Singh repeated his request for a bonus of Rs 100/- per quintal over and above the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy to compensate farmers for the additional financial burden necessitated for proper disposal of the paddy straw.

He urged Modi to direct the concerned central ministry to announce the bonus, to be paid only to those farmers who manage the paddy residue/stubble without burning.

In the letter, the chief minister pointed out that the farmers burn paddy straw - estimated to be 20 million tonnes every cropping season - because of the short period available to them to prepare the land for sowing the next wheat crop.

The farmers have neither the financial resources nor the requisite manpower to manage such a huge stock of paddy in the three weeks they get for sowing the next crop, he added.

Singh also cited the National Green Tribunal judgements on the matter, pointing out that the tribunal had ordered the Punjab government to ensure no paddy straw is burnt by the farmers. It had also said that the farmers who burn paddy straw should be penalised. PTI SKC ABH

--- ENDS ---
U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman held a town hall session on Sunday night in Beaver Dam and heard concerns from local residents ranging from the fate of the Dreamers to the current shape of the Republican Party.

Grothman, a Republican from Glenbeulah who served in the state Legislature before being elected to the House in 2014 to serve Wisconsins Sixth District, had more than 30 people at the town hall that was held in the Watermark Community Center and started out with a Washington update.

This is my second term, Grothman said. We will be going back next week.

Grothman briefly went over issues facing the three committees he works on  education/workforce, budget and government oversight.

The budget is the most important thing we do every year and really the press hasnt covered it, Grothman said. Im not really sure why the press hasnt covered it. Maybe it has to do with North Korea, maybe the press likes to focus on the tweets Donald Trump has or focus on Obamacare.

Currently, the federal government borrows 14 percent of the budget, contributing to a national debt that is nearing $20 trillion.

I feel like Congress is not approaching that concern serious enough, Grothman said.

He said he has fought against increase in spending in the budget for the military.

We have a substantial increase in spending over last year, Grothman said. Something I am not thrilled about and what you wouldnt expect the Republicans to do. We already took a separate vote on the military part of budget. I introduced an amendment.

There was a mild cut in military spending, and Grothman said he voted for it.

The best thing the education/workforce committee did was to encourage states to spend more money on technical education, Grothman said.

Wisconsin is the second-highest in workforce in the country, but so many of the factories cant find workers they need, Grothman said.

The government oversight committee was very active earlier in the year.

Sheena Black asked the congressman about the increase in the cost of pharmaceuticals.

Especially the cost of the EpiPen and most recently a cancer drug, Black said. There is such an anti-regulatory atmosphere right now.

Grothman said that they brought in the CEO of the company who increased the cost of the EpiPen, an epinephrine auto-injector intended to prevent anaphylactic shock as a result of sudden allergic reactions.

We were able to embarrass her to back down at a degree, Grothman said, adding that he does not accept campaign donations from the pharmaceutical industry.

So your position is the only thing Congress can do is embarrass these CEOs, Black said.

Grothman said he believed they would try to work on something when they get back in session.

Margaret Heider asked about the possibility of deporting millions of young immigrants who were brought illegally to the United States when they were children, but have grown up in this country.

I dont know if he wants to deport millions, Grothman said, referring to the president, who announced earlier this month that he was ending the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program enacted by President Barack Obama. He wants Congress to work on something. What exactly Donald Trump wants, I dont know. In regard of immigration laws in this country, there is some inappropriate thinking. Our goal should be that every immigrant to our country should be an asset to our country.

Angie Kirst asked about the Graham-Cassidy health care bill when Grothman was on that topic. The bill recently introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Bill Cassidy, R-La., and others is Republicans latest effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare.

If the details include not including pre-existing conditions and ending Medicaid expansions and eliminating subsidies of private insurance and eliminating the mandates that will help pay, do you agree with all of those positions?, Kirst said.

Grothman said he does not like the idea of a mandate.

As I understand it, that bill would give a lot more flexibility to the states, Grothman said. And the idea of giving flexibility to the states is a good thing.

I wonder if the Republican Party is a party anymore, Gordon Port said. You see division amongst Republican assemblymen. You see division among the Republican senators. You see they are almost as disrespectful and disruptive as the president and the Democrats are.

Grothman was unsure of what Port was getting at.

We are a diverse party of different opinions, Grothman said. I think we are a very strong party right now.

Anne Ambrosius asked about what Grothman felt about a state proposal to allow people with a four-year degree to take an online course to obtain a teaching certification, in lieu of a specified classroom program.

In general, I favor more flexibility, Grothman said. I think it is something that should be based on a case-to-case basis.

Wendy Meier expressed concern about the health of the environment in Wisconsin.

If we dont have any federal respect for the environment and any kind of rules and regulation, I think it is important for people to realize rules and regulations are healthy, Meier said.

Grothman said he believed that local controls are better for the DNR.

If you dont have clean water and habitat and food to eat, none of this matters, Meier said.

Grothman said that things are dramatically better than they were 30 years ago environmentally.
An attempted traffic stop on the Madison Beltline late Sunday led to a high-speed, 38-mile police chase to Stoughton and back, followed by the apprehension of two teens police say were inside the vehicle.

Dane County Sheriffs deputies say they attempted a traffic stop at about 11:47 p.m. Sunday on a white 2012 Honda CR-V on the Madison Beltline west of Monona Drive.

The vehicle had been reported stolen out of the City of Monona earlier in the night, according to a Dane County Sheriff's Office release. Town of Madison police had attempted to stop the same vehicle earlier resulting in a pursuit that was ultimately terminated.

This time the vehicle again sped up and a pursuit ensued. The stolen Honda went east on the Beltline and north onto State Highway 51 before doing an about-face and heading south toward Stoughton.

Police made a second attempted traffic stop just after the vehicle entered Stoughton city limits, but it again failed to stop and went back north toward Madison on Highway 51.

The vehicle eventually crashed into an unoccupied parked vehicle on S. Thompson Drive where the driver fled on foot.

The 15-year-old male driver was later apprehended at his residence, and the 16-year-old male passenger was apprehended at the site of the crash.

There were no injuries as a result of the crash and the involved vehicles sustained minor damage.

The pursuit traveled 38.8 miles, lasted about 35 minutes and reached speeds of 113 mph, according to the Dane County release.

Response efforts to establish a perimeter and search for the driver included the Dane County Sheriffs Office, the City of Monona Police Department, the Town of Madison Police Department and the City of Madison Police Department.
Information is taken from the records of the Portage Police Department and does not represent a comprehensive list of police activity. Each individual named in this report is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Between 12:02 p.m. Friday and 7:20 a.m. Monday, police responded to 116 calls, including:

West Carroll Street: Police on on Friday at 11:51 p.m. responded to a domestic disturbance where a Portage man was arrested and later charged with misdemeanor domestic disorderly conduct.

East Wisconsin Street: Police on Saturday at 3:57 a.m. responded to a disturbance where Abigail Rott, 38, of Portage, was accused of creating a disturbance involving one man inside a home, then yelling and throwing a piece of wood at three other people in a tent. Rott was later located and arrested on suspicion of six counts of felony bail jumping, one count of misdemeanor bail jumping, and disorderly conduct.

East Edgewater Street: Police on Saturday at 6:33 a.m. responded to a domestic disturbance where a 25-year-old Portage man was arrested and charged with domestic disorderly conduct.

Market Basket: Police on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. issued a citation to Carl Epstein, 69, of Portage, for selling alcohol to an underage buyer.

Tamarack Pizza: Police on Saturday at 7:35 p.m. issued a citation to William Bartels for serving alcohol to underage volunteers.

East Howard Street: Police on Saturday at 8:25 p.m. responded to an incident where Joseph Storkson, 41, of Verona, was alleged to have pushed another man around and then the mans head through a window. Storkson was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct and battery.

DeWitt Street: Police on Sunday at 3:49 a.m. responded to an incident where Kevin Burnside, 52, was arrested on a probation and parole warrant and cited for possession of drug paraphernalia.

South Highway 16: Police on Sunday at 9:23 a.m. stopped Jason Dohmeyer, 47, of Portage, who was cited for operating a vehicle after suspension of a license, suspended vehicle registration and driving without proof of insurance.

East Wisconsin Street: Police on Sunday at 12:04 p.m. responded to a reported vehicle accident near Kwik Trip South where a vehicle was southbound on East Wisconsin Street and reportedly struck by Ray Steger, 23, of Madison, who was turning into the inner southbound land from the outside lane. Steger was cited for unsafe lane deviation.

West Wisconsin Street: Police on Sunday at 2:22 p..m. responded to a request to keep the peace where a 22-year-old Portage man was arrested on suspicion of violation of a temporary restraining order.

Central Portage: Police on Sunday at 9:15 p.m. responded to an incident where Stephanie Adams, 27, of Indianola, Missouri, was arrested for disorderly conduct, theft and possession of drug paraphernalia. Lorraine J. James, 50, of Portage, was arrested on an Adams County warrant and for felony bail jumping.
Fermentation Fest won't feature a tour of local farms and artisan workshops this year, but that didnt stop one group from organizing its own excursion through rural Sauk and Richland counties.

Following the announcement that the annual fall festival in Reedsburg will hold the Farm Art DTour biannually, several of its hosts banded together and created a similar event. The group reached out to potential hosts, connected with the Reedsburg Area Chamber of Commerce and created a website with a map of their tour and biographies for each participating business.

It just grew from there, said organizer Lisa Buttonow, who owns the Branding Iron Roadhouse in Lime Ridge. Its flowed naturally because in the rural community, we have things that we do that were proud of that we want to share. Theres so much to see and so much to offer.

The resulting Hill and Valley Exploration Tour Oct. 7-8 and 14-15 will showcase more than 60 events at a dozen farms and business across Sauk and Richland counties. Unlike a traditional tour, the event invites guests to study up on the various stops via the groups website. Participants may then choose to attend activities and demonstrations in which they are interested.

From sheep shearing demos to a presentation on vintage camper restoration, Buttonow said the tour offers an activity for everyone.

Theres something for animal lovers, food lovers, car lovers, she said. Its about celebrating everything rural  about all the things that happen in the rural community, and about putting our rural producers with consumers, so people can see where their food and other products come from.

During the tour, Tobeys Sandhill Fiber Farm will host demonstrations on animal sheering and loom warping, along with classes on felting, wine glass painting and wool flower coiling. Owner Brenda Tobey said guests will also be able to walk lamas along a scenic path around the farm.

Some other activities include a craft, vintage goods and art market and barn dance at the Ridge Barn in La Valle, farm to fork cooking demonstrations at the Branding Iron Roadhouse, wine tasting at the new Narrows Creek Winery in Loganville and more. Most events are free to attend but some include a small fee. Details are included on the Hill and Valley Exploration Tour website.

Dean Baumgarten, who founded Narrows Creek Winery with his wife Vicky, said the tour gives rural producers a chance to connect with people from different backgrounds.

Its one thing to tell our stories, but I like to hear their stories too, he said. Its such a mixed bag of people from different life styles.

Kristine Koenecke of the Reedsburg Area Chamber of Commerce said she anticipates a high turnout for the event. She said many visitors who stop by the chamber to ask about Fermentation Fest have been disappointed to learn that the Farm Art DTour is no longer happening, but she told them about the new Hill and Valley Exploration event.

Its a great time of year to get out in southern Wisconsin, she said. The colors are beautiful, and if we have weather like weve been having, its going to be very busy.

Editor's note: This story was changed from it's original version to correct when the Farm Art DTour will be held again.
Boys & Girls Club leaders say the organization is having a significant impact on Sauk County youth.

With locations in Tomah, Baraboo and now Reedsburg, the Boys & Girls Club of West Central Wisconsin serves more than 500 citizens throughout Sauk County, according to its executive director, Karen DeSanto. To ensure the Boys & Girls Club continues to benefit local communities with youth programming, DeSanto said shes lobbying county officials for sustainable funding.

The club is absolutely making a footprint in Sauk County as an area for young people to thrive, she said. We are addressing that by going to the county and asking them to write the clubs into their budget to secure regular, sustainable funding for the youth of Sauk County.

The Boys & Girls Club of West Central Wisconsin recently expanded its operations in Sauk County, opening a new location in Reedsburg. DeSanto said planning for the new facility began about a year ago when community leaders decided the city should have its own chapter of the Boys & Girls Club.

The group secured a former hardware store building for the new location on Vine Street in Reedsburg. DeSanto said more than $400,000 was raised in just more than a year to fund programming expenses, along with renovations to the site.

Within three months, we had $150,000, which allowed us to secure the place and start the renovations, she said. Since then, its been an outpouring of support from the community.

DeSanto said the organization may begin searching for a new facility for the Baraboo club, which is located in the Civic Center on 2nd Street.

Since opening Sept. 5, the Reedsburg Boys & Girls offers a wide variety of afterschool programs for youth. From the end of school until 7 p.m., kids can participate in activities that foster academic, leadership and citizenship skills, along with healthy lifestyles.

The Boys & Girls Club of America creates most of the programs. DeSanto said the Reedsburg club offers more than 40. She said the club often selects an activity and tailors it to the unique skills of staff members. DeSanto added that the kids are given leeway in choosing which activities they want to pursue, which can help with social development.

Kids like to have parameters, and we give them all of that, but we kind of let them fly a little bit too, she said. Its a proven fact: when kids are in charge of their own destiny they perform better.

Reedsburg Boys & Girls Club Program Director Kellie Lombard plans and oversees activities offered at the facility. She said the club has spaces where kids can play games, do their homework, create art and work on computers. She said most activities are designed to keep kids interested and engaged.

Lombard said she has seen many kids develop and prosper during their time at the Boys & Girls Club.

Youll have a kid that comes in who is maybe kind of shy and reserved, and after a few weeks they start to really blossom and branch out and make lots of friends, she said. Seeing them handle themselves differently is amazing, and knowing that were a part of that is very rewarding.

In addition to youth programming, the club lends space to the Reedsburg School Districts GED program. Lombard said the group is also working to expand programming for teens and preteens. The organization is also in search of part-time employees, she added.

Since opening, the DeSanto said the clubs membership has grown from 50 to nearly 100 kids. Registration costs $24 annually, with financial aid options available. DeSanto said she believes the clubs reputation in Baraboo will spur more growth in Reedsburg.

I think were right on target, she said. Our goal is to have 200 members by the end of the year, and I cant imagine were not going to have that.
Even Hurricane Irma could not keep Alex Morzy away from Wo-Zha-Wa.

Morzy, a 2016 graduate of Wisconsin Dells High School and a current student at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, was back home in the Dells the weekend of Sept. 15-17, for the annual, late-summer weekend festival, in spite of having ridden out one of historys most powerful storms earlier in the week.

Apparently he had a job to do for the weekend, as demonstrated by the sign pole he held out to passing motorists, while he stood in front of his parents home on Capital Street.

The sign read, PARKING, All Day!, and in between helping to direct potential customers to the parking spots in his parents front yard, Morzy described the ordeal of surviving a hurricane.

We had 85 to 90-miles-per-hour wind gusts, he said of the night and early morning the hurricane blew through central Florida, where he lives and attends college.

He described the all-night experience as Sitting in the dark, and you hear howling wind outside. Then, in the same breath, he said ten dollars all day, maam, to a potential parking customer.

Such is the lure of Wo-Zha-Wa. As has been the case for a half-century, Wisconsin Dells annual Wo-Zha-Wa Days Festival drew visitors and returning natives from far and wide for its 2017 edition.

I think everyone enjoys seeing old friends  it seems to be a weekend for reunions, said Wo-Zha-Wa Committee Chairman and Dells Alderman Ed Wojnicz.

With sunny, warm weather its first two days, Sept. 15 and 16, then a somewhat cooler, overcast day for the popular afternoon parade Sept. 17, tens of thousands yet again flocked to the downtown area for eating, shopping and catching up with old friends.

Everything went off as it was supposed to, Wojnicz said. It was a beautiful weekend, and I think everyone fared well.

The weekend kicked off as usual with a strong turnout of downtown visitors the morning of Sept. 15, by which time the Dells Police Department had suspended parking tickets for the day, making all downtown spaces free for the taking.

By the next day, with attendance picking up on an equally warm, sunny day, the downtown areas side streets were jammed with parked cars, and downtown residents turned parking lot attendants were on their toes all day.

That was the case with Morzy, who said he planned to continue parking cars through the festivals end on Sept. 17, before heading straight back to Central Florida.

Classes start back up this week, he said.
The BJP, Congress and the AAP are all battling infighting as the parties gear up for next year's Rajasthan assembly election.

By Sweta dutta: As Rajasthan gears up for an unprecedented three-cornered election contest next year with the BJP, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party in the fray, all the three state units with their divided houses are hoping their opponents slip.

While Congress state unit chief Sachin Pilot and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot slug it out for supremacy in the party, AAP state incharge Kumar Vishwas's camp alleges non cooperation from the central leadership.

advertisement

Chief minister Vasundhara Raje, meanwhile, faces stiff opposition from party colleague Ghanshyam Tiwary, whereas arch rival and senior leader Om Mathur has emerged stronger post the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. Mathur stands as a strong contender to be the next BJP CM face as the party battles strong anti-incumbency in the state.

"People have given the BJP and Congress a shot and both have disappointed them. That is where we come in. We are launching campaigns one after the other on issues that affect people. Our organisationbuilding process nears completion and by November, we will have an established setup across the state," Kumar Vishwas told MAIL TODAY.

But the bigger challenge for Congress and AAP is not just to win back the confidence of the electorate but to battle internal differences as well. State AAP leaders allege 'non-cooperation' from the party high command, attributing it to personal differences between Vishwas and party supremo Arvind Kejriwal.

Vishwas, however, maintains, "The Rajasthan unit is doing well. Our first taste of success was with the Rajasthan University Students' Union polls. In no other state did our students' wing CYSS record such an emphatic victory. The non-grassroot leaders of the party might not like it, but it must be understood that if volunteers are backing me, it is a good thing for the party as a whole."

In Congress too, while Pilot has the backing of party vice-president Rahul Gandhi and is most likely to be the CM face, Gehlot's camp has been lobbying for a third term for him. "A section of the party in the state feels that Gehlot had done good work in his previous term and has a connect with the electorate.

Considering that he is active in politics and physically fit to take up another term, he should be given another chance," said a senior leader from the state. Dismissing rumours of a rift, Pilot says, "We are a team and will go into the polls as one united house. I have the backing of all senior leaders in the state. It is for the party leadership to decide who will be the CM candidate."

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
After hearing impassioned arguments from both sides, Lexington leaders decided its time to relocate two Confederate statues that have sat on the lawn of Fayette Countys old courthouse lawn for more than a century.

While its not clear when the statues will come down or how the removal will be marked, a look back of the 1911 unveiling shows how the city marked the occasion decades after the Civil War ended.

The day after officials unveiled John Hunt Morgan's statue, headlines from the Lexington Herald on October 19, 1911 proclaimed "Thousands Pay Tribute to Memory of General John Morgan When Heroic Statue of Gallant Calvary Leader is Unveiled." News accounts describe a parade a mile long down Main Street featuring bands, 400 Confederate veterans, and up to 20,000 people watching it all.

"John Hunt Morgan was, during the war, one of the most beloved figures of a lot of Confederate supporters because of his dashing looks and his daring raids," said Kentucky Historian Ron Bryant.

Few pictures exist showing the crowd crammed shoulder to shoulder around the old courthouse for the unveiling. The program included the singing of "Dixie" and "Bonnie Blue Flag" as school children formed the stars and bars. Kentucky's governor spoke, and a flag of the Confederacy flew.

"(It was) one of the greatest crowds ever seen on the streets of Lexington," Bryant said.

But how did this happen in a state pledged to the Union?

"It was backlash. A backlash," Bryant told WKYTs Sam Dick. "Kentuckians became upset. They became neo-Confederates if you will, and a lot of people even forgot their Union heritage and began to hide it."

Two monuments at the Lexington Cemetery were put up in the late 1800s to honor the soldiers who fought for the South. Bryant says before the war ended, Kentucky was put under martial law and Kentuckians felt more like people in a conquered state.

Many of the Confederate dead are buried in the Lexington Cemetery.

Bryant's wife, Jane, is a member of the Daughters of the Confederacy, a national organization dedicated to honoring the memory and bravery of Confederate soldiers. In 1911, the group helped pay half of the $15,000 for the John Hunt Morgan statue. The state of Kentucky provided the other half of the money.

"I believe that I should honor and respect people that are buried on both sides," Jane Bryant said.

She believes the John Hunt Morgan statue and the one of John C. Breckinridge should stay right where they are.

Because they're part of our history, said Jane Bryant. Whether you like what they did or they were there, they're part of our history. And I think it's the one way our children can see where we were and how far we've progressed."

"I completely understand why both those statues exist, but having them stand on a space where slaves were sold sends a message to people of color that 'we don't care,' said DeBraun Thomas, founder of "Take Back Cheapside" which is leading the fight to remove the statues. "My great-grandfather was a slave."

Thomas and many others say this is not the place to honor two men who fought to maintain slavery on the same grounds where thousands of slaves were sold. A poster advertising the auction is 1855 listed 23 slaves for sale at Cheapside by a slave owner out of Lewis County. The sign refers to the men as "Bucks," a woman as a "Wench," and one with a six-month old "Picinniny" which is a racist slur for a baby. Terms of the sale were "strictly cash."

While newspaper accounts of the day the statues were unveiled, they don't mention any protest or dissent. Thomas believes there were many that day in Lexington who couldn't speak out.

"That's only one side of people who, I mean think about what was going on in 1911. You have reconstruction and Jim Crow. People of color are not going to go down there and voice their opinion," Thomas said.

While the Urban County Council voted to move the statues on August 17 to the Lexington Cemetery where both John Hunt Morgan and John C. Breckinridge are buried, a date hasnt been set for the relocation.
COLL 300 visitor teaches students Indian dance

Dance lesson With just two opportunities to teach and rehearse the choreography before performing, COLL 300 visitor Laxmi Narayan Tripathi works with modern dance students. Photo by David Williard

Dance lesson With just two opportunities to teach and rehearse the choreography before performing, COLL 300 visitor Laxmi Narayan Tripathi works with modern dance students. Photo by David Williard

Dance lesson With just two opportunities to teach and rehearse the choreography before performing, COLL 300 visitor Laxmi Narayan Tripathi works with modern dance students. Photo by David Williard

Dance lesson With just two opportunities to teach and rehearse the choreography before performing, COLL 300 visitor Laxmi Narayan Tripathi works with modern dance students. Photo by David Williard

Dance lesson With just two opportunities to teach and rehearse the choreography before performing, COLL 300 visitor Laxmi Narayan Tripathi works with modern dance students. Photo by David Williard Photo - of - Hide Caption

Laxmi Narayan Tripathi explained that the hand movement has to be perfect, then demonstrated it while counting to eight. William & Mary dance students repeated it identically and in sync.

Where your hand, goes your eyes, she said. That is your soul.

This was the scene at a dance class that was part lesson and part rehearsal during Tripathis visit to campus Sept. 9-15.

Tripathi is a hijra transgender activist from India who is an author, dancer and actress. She is an advocate for the rights of the hijra, which is a very old community in India that identifies its members as neither male nor female. Tripathi was the plaintiff in litigation winning legal recognition for a third gender from the Indian Supreme Court in 2014, and she has worked to broaden gender definitions at the United Nations and other global forums on HIV and AIDS.

{{youtube:medium:right|ZiZdUDPCv4s, In the dance studio}}

Tripathi gave the fall semesters first COLL 300 lecture at W&M on Sept. 13. Established in 2015, the College Curriculum is a set of specially designed courses that connect and integrate knowledge from the major and electives, extending across four years.

The COLL 300 is typically taken in a students third year and emphasizes experiences and knowledge of the larger world. This falls COLL 300 theme is IN/EXclusion and planned visitors are practitioners Ifarinwale Ogundiran and Bamigboye Adewale Adebukola Oct. 9-13, presenting an introduction to traditional Yoruba Ifa religion in Nigeria and Native American expert on tribal law, and federal Indian policy Sarah Deer, who has worked for 20 years to end violence against women focusing specifically on Native women and communities, Nov. 14-17.

Part of Tripathis COLL 300 remarks and performance included a dance, which W&M students participated in. Tripathi ran her own dance academy a decade ago, and she had a short turnaround time of two rehearsals to teach and perfect the Indian dance with the students.

They worked on it during Lecturer of Dance Lauren Morris modern dance class on Sept. 12 in the Adair Hall Dance Studio and again that evening at Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall, performing it there the next night.

Tuesdays midday session was a whirlwind of activity, with Tripathi starting and stopping the music frequently to demonstrate again, tweak a movement here and there or reiterate a subtlety in the movements.

She called the students fast learners and was thrilled with how quickly they picked up the choreography.

Yeah, they did it, she said. And Im very proud that they did it so beautifully.

Anxious to get started, Tripathi started putting students into lines by height and asking their names before the class had officially started. She flew around the room, often taking a place in line with them as they learned the movements she repeatedly demonstrated while explaining the emotions the movements represent.

Enjoy, she kept saying. Smile.

And smile she did, swishing her arms forward and back while emphasizing the intricate footwork.

Your hands should flow, she said. Dont let it catch (at the hip). Let it fly.

Students let them fly, careful to keep their fingers placed as she had.

Beautiful, Tripathi said. I love it.

A brief lull gave a chance to check on what students would wear to perform, which sent two faculty members scurrying off to a costume closet to see what they could find to supplement the chosen black leotards and leggings.

Im bad; Im not giving you rest, Tripathi said, showing the charming humor that is her trademark. But tomorrow we have to perform.

She encouraged questions, and students asked for a few clarifications as they sought to learn the dance quickly. She went to them individually to show them the answers, frequently checking and rechecking that everybody understood what was being taught.

A busy schedule for the week had Tripathi visiting other classes and groups for meals to talk about her experiences and work. She took a brief break to sit for only a moment after the dance class before she was whisked off to lunch with students.




China News on Women





Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home page
The Vasundhara Raje government in Rajasthan has agreed to form a high-level committee to look into the demands of farmers who have been protesting since last 13 days.

By Dev Ankur Wadhawan: Thirteen days of unrelenting but non-violent protests, road blockades and show of resilience has led to Vasundhara Raje-led Rajasthan government agreeing to some key demands by farmers in the desert state.

The agitating farmers had put forth a list of 11 demands before the government. The Rajasthan government has agreed to form a high level Committee to look into farmers' demands. It has also decided that the farm loan will be waived off upto Rs 50,000 and the Swaminathan Commission report to be referred to the Centre.

advertisement

WILL THE RAJE GOVT WALK THE TALK?

Amraram, National President of All India Kisan Sabha and former MLA of the CPI (M), had been at the forefront of the farmers' agitation in the state.

"Definitely, (promises) will be fulfilled. Every farmer, who has taken farm loan, will have loan waiver upto Rs 50,000. We know the character, the policy and intention of the government. Have to fight for making it agree to the demand first and for the second time, to get the demand implemented. We have fought now for thirteen days. If the government backtracks, then they will suffer," Amraram said.

Farmers in Rajasthan have been staring at agrarian distress emanating primarily out of weather vagaries such as low rainfall, drought conditions, high input costs and not getting the right price for their output despite the Minimum Support Price (MSP) fixed for their produce. However, unlike the protests and the administrative action in Madhya Pradesh, a state that borders Rajasthan, things didn't turn violent in the desert state.

"Am happy (with the agreement with Vasundhara Raje government). Whatever has happened is right. There is shortage of water and wild animals destroy our crops," Mahaveer, a farmer, told India Today.

Students block a road during a protest in support of farmers agitation for implementation of Swaminathan Commission Report in Bikaner, Rajasthan. (Photo/PTI)

MASSIVE LOAN BURDEN

Farmers in Rajasthan have been reeling under massive farm loan burden. As per an estimate, the farm loan on farmers in Rajasthan is above of Rs 49500. The farm loan waiver, agreed upon by Rajasthan government, if implemented, can reduce the debt by Rs 20,000 crore.

"The Central government had waived farmers' loans twice, in 1990 and 2008. Perhaps, for the first time, country's prime minister has become the biggest enemy of farmers. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley says that the state government should look into the issue," Amraram told India Today.

FIGHT NOT OVER YET

Those representing the state Government at the meeting held between farmers' representatives and the government, included Agriculture Minister Prabhulal Saini, Water Resources Minister Ram Pratap, Cooperative minister Ajay Singh Kilak.

"Decision on farm loan waiver will be taken after the decision of high level committee," Agriculture Minister Prabhulal Saini said.

advertisement

After the agreement, farmers in Rajasthan had planned to take out victory procession in 15 districts of Rajasthan.

The road blockades, at more than 250 locations, mainly in Sikar, Churu, Jhunjhunu have been removed.

However, the agitating farmers said that the agreement was a minor victory for them. Earlier, some of them had even claimed that if the government does not accede to their demands they will ensure that supply essential commodities is blocked.

WATCH: Operation Farmgate: How govt vultures feast on Indian farmers in Mandis of corruption

--- ENDS ---
Komarov explains nuclear's role in energy mix

18 September 2017

Share

The perception that renewable energy is cheaper than nuclear power is only "half true", Kirill Komarov, Rosatom's first deputy director-general, said in a televised interview with Ian King, business presenter at Sky News, this week. "If you combine all the elements you need to establish connection to the grid for renewables, you need to pay additionally for some backup facilities. If you combine all these you will see that nuclear is still, minimum, twice as cheap as wind and, minimum, three times cheaper than solar," Komarov said.

The Russian state nuclear corporation itself invests in the development of wind power and "that's why I'm a qualified expert on this and I see that investments in nuclear power are more interesting because it's still cheaper".

The company has an order book worth $133 billion over the next decade, excluding its business in Russia. Asked why Rosatom is successful, Komarov said its main advantage is that it covers the entire nuclear fuel cycle.

"We have everything at our disposal in one company, starting from the mining of uranium up to the decommissioning of nuclear power plants, and, honestly, if we want to execute a project we don't even need partners. We do work with partners in different countries, but we have all the resources internally."

He added: "Secondly, a very important point is that what we are doing abroad is not first-of-a-kind. First, we try and implement all new projects, all new designs, all new technical solutions, in our country, and only afterwards do we go abroad because working in foreign countries is definitely much more difficult than working at home."

Komarov stressed that nuclear technology is safe, reliable and can operate for a minimum of 60 years.

"That's why I believe [nuclear power] can still be a very significant part of the energy balance of each and every country, especially taking in account the decarbonisation goal, which cannot be achieved without nuclear," he said.

Asked about claims of the company's "ties to Kremlin", he said that such speculation is common for any state-run company in any country.

"That's not the point," he said. "We [succeed] because we provide the customer with a reliable solution, referenced and cheap."

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topics
China's 37th reactor enters commercial operation

18 September 2017

Share

Unit 4 of the Fuqing nuclear power plant in China's Fujian province has completed commissioning tests and now meets the conditions for entering commercial operation, China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announced today.

Fuqing 4 (Image: CNNC)

At 5.57pm yesterday, the 1087 MWe CPR-1000 unit completed a series of commissioning tests, including a load test run and a test run lasting 168 hours, CNNC said. Although the company must still obtain necessary permits and documentation, the unit can now be considered to be in commercial operation.

First concrete was poured for unit 4 in December 2012 and its dome was put in place in June 2014. The process of loading the 157 fuel assemblies into the reactor core began on 13 June this year and was completed six days later. The unit achieved a sustained chain reaction for the first time on 16 July and was connected to the grid on 29 July.

CNNC's Fuqing plant will eventually house six Chinese-designed pressurised water reactors, the first four being 1087 MWe CPR-1000 units. Units 1 to 3 entered commercial operation in November 2014, October 2015 and October 2016, respectively. So far, the units at Fuqing have generated 38 TWh of electricity, avoiding the consumption of over 12 million tonnes of coal and the emission of about 40 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to CNNC.

CNNC now has 17 power reactors in operation, with a combined generating capacity of 14,340 MWe.

China's State Council gave final approval for construction of Fuqing 5 and 6 in mid-April 2015. First concrete was poured for the fifth unit in May 2015, while that for unit 6 was poured in December. These will be demonstration indigenously-designed Hualong One reactors. CNNC expects all six units at Fuqing to be fully commissioned and put into operation in 2021.

The Fuqing nuclear power plant project is owned by CNNC subsidiary China Nuclear Power Company (51%); Huadian Fuxin Energy Company (39%); and Fujian Investment and Development Group (10%).

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topics
Fennovoima sees delay in licensing of Hanhikivi 1

18 September 2017

Share

Finland's Fennovoima now expects to receive the construction licence for its planned Hanhikivi 1 nuclear power plant in 2019. The company had previously expected to start construction of the plant next year, but the review of documentation related to its application is taking longer than originally envisaged.

Impression of an AES-2006 VVER plant at Hanhikivi (Image: Fennovoima)

Fennovoima submitted its 250-page construction licence application to Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy for the planned Hanhikivi nuclear power plant project in June 2015. The application sets out details of the plant location, the reactor type, the main safety systems, nuclear waste management, financing of the project and Fennovoima's organisation, the company said.

The government's decision to issue a construction licence will require a positive assessment of the application by the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (Stuk). Fennovoima said it is in the process of supplying the regulator with the design documentation of the plant for assessment.

Fennovoima CEO Toni Hemminki said: "We have reviewed the progress of the work and decided to reschedule our goal to obtain the permit in 2019. Taking Finnish requirements and legislation into consideration in the design work has taken more time from the plant supplier than we originally expected. Since the delivery of documents during the first two years has been slower than expected, Stuk has also been unable to carry out their own assessment work on the scale they planned."

Fennovoima said it will provide a more detailed estimate for the schedule of the construction licence documents "once the schedule has been analysed with the plant supplier".

Fennovoima began excavation work at the Hanhikivi site in Pyhajoki in northern Finland in January last year and aims to complete infrastructure work by the end of this year. Construction of the plant - based on a Russian-designed 1200 MWe AES-2006 VVER - can only start once the construction licence has been issued. Fennovoima had planned to start building the plant in 2018, with operation beginning in 2024.

The Hanhikivi project is owned by Fennovoima, in which a 34% stake is held by RAOS Voima Oy, the Finnish subsidiary set up in 2014 by Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom for the purpose of buying a share in the company. Russia's Titan-2 is the main contractor for the Hanhikivi project.

"Rosatom has built dozens of nuclear power plants around the world, and it is the most experienced nuclear power plant supplier in the world, so I am confident about the end results," Hemminki said. "For us, it is a big advantage that Hanhikivi 1's reference power plant, Leningrad II, will be completed in Sosnovy Bor next year. All the latest know-how and experience will be at our disposal during the construction phase."

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topics
Westinghouse to supply upgrade systems to Zaporozhe

18 September 2017

Share

Westinghouse Electric Company has signed a contract with Ukrainian national nuclear generator Energoatom to supply monitoring instrumentation systems to the Zaporozhe nuclear power plant, as part of a long-term safety upgrade program.

Zaporozhe (Image: Energoatom)



The equipment will be delivered to units 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the plant, which is in the south-east of the country. The project is part of the Complex Consolidated Safety Upgrade Program of nuclear power plants in Ukraine, which is conducted under loan agreements with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Euratom.

Units 1 and 2 underwent extended upgrades in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

Westinghouse will provide accident and post-accident monitoring systems and hydrogen concentration monitoring systems for the four units. The upgrade also includes severe and design-basis accident field instrumentation, associated equipment, and installation supervision, training and warranty for products and services. Westinghouse will carry out the project with selected Ukrainian companies including Kharkov-based Westron, which is an I&C joint venture between Westinghouse and Ukrainian control systems design company Hartron.

The project will start immediately, Westinghouse said, with delivery to Zaporozhe 4 early next year, and the final delivery, to unit 6, at the end of 2019. Final acceptance of the last delivered system is planned for early 2021.

Aziz Dag, Westinghouse vice president and managing director for Northern Europe, said the project confirmed the US company as a "dedicated automation provider for [the] Ukrainian nuclear market" and reflected Energoatom's "high confidence" in it to deliver high-level safety solutions.

The program to bring Ukraine's operating nuclear reactors into line with international standards and local regulations began in 2011. The EBRD in 2013 agreed a 300 million ($327 million) loan, matching a similar one from Euratom for the project, estimated to cost 1.4 billion in total. Originally planned for completion this year, the target date was moved to 2020 after Ukraine's 2014 change in government delayed the entry into force of the funding agreements.

The Zaporozhe plant hosts six V-320 VVER reactors, each of 950 MWe (net) capacity. Its first unit started commercial operation in December 1985, while unit 6 was connected to the grid at the end of 1995. It is the biggest nuclear power station in Europe

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topics
The accused duo had allegedly been raping the Class 12 student for some time now, even impregnating her in the assault.

The girl was raped by her school director and teacher over a period of time. Photo for representation.

By India Today Web Desk: Day after the horrific rape case of a Sikar high school student came to light, the police today detained the accused school director Jagdish and the teacher, Jagat.

The duo had allegedly been raping the minor for some time now and had even impregnated her in the assault.

The incident came to the forefront after the minor was rushed to a hospital on Monday for excessive bleeding. The girl is now in a critical condition and is undergoing treatment in a Jaipur hospital.

advertisement

The blood-curdling episode took place at the Janta Bal Niketan School in Ajeetgarh police station area of Sikar district.

WHAT HAPPENED

After learning that the girl was pregnant, the accused duo allegedly took her to a private hospital in Shahpura area and made her abort the child. Subsequently, they sent her home.

Thereafter, the girl suffered excessive bleeding and was taken to the local hospital in Ajeetgarh.

At the hospital, the girl's family was told that the reason behind her excessive bleeding was the abortion surgery she underwent recently.

The accused school director and teacher are currently being questioned in police custody.

(With inputs from Sushil and ANI)

DO WATCH: Delhi horror: Shahdara school peon arrested for raping 5-year-old girl

--- ENDS ---
Where is Sierra Leone located?

Sierra Leone is a West African country near the Atlantic Ocean. The neighbouring countries include Guinea which borders it to the North east and Liberia to its South East. Sierra Leone as a country lies between latitude and longitude 12.2 degrees west and 8.5 degrees north respectively.

What is the Capital of Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leones capital is Freetown. It is a main port city that is situated on the Atlantic Ocean. Freetown is Sierra Leones major economic, political, cultural, educational, and financial hub. The city has a population of approximately one million people according to a census carried out in 2015.

Geography of Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone covers a total area of about 71,740 square kilometers. A large portion of it is land while water covers an area of 120 square kilometers. Sierra Leone has four geographical regions namely the Eastern Mountains, an Upland Plateau, Coastal Guinean Mangroves, and the Wooded Hill Country. Furthermore, there is a 400 km stretch of the Atlantic coastline in the country. The climate of Sierra Leone is tropical with two major seasons namely the dry and rainy season. The rainy season occurs from May to November whereas the dry season is from December to May.

Languages Spoken in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a multilingual country with over twenty five languages spoken. The official language is English while the commonly spoken native language is Krio. Other major languages are Mende, which is the mother-tongue in South Sierra Leone, and Temne which locals in the western and northern parts of Sierra Leone speak. Furthermore, the other languages are Susu, Kono, Limba, Kissi, Fula, and Kuranko.

Religion

Sierra Leone is a secular state with the constitution having provided for the freedom of religion. However, the most widespread religions in Sierra Leone are Islam and Christianity. The rest of the population are Animists, Atheists, Hindus, Bahais, Jews, or traditionalists. Animists believe that places, objects, and creatures possess a distinct spiritual essence. Traditionalist beliefs give room for witchcraft specialists, diviners, and healers. Most religions meet in mosques, churches, forests, or parts of some towns for their worship. They perform rituals next to streams, lakes, and rivers since water is very important. In doing so they pledge their allegiance to God, Allah, the spirits, and other gods whom they accord utmost respect in their worship.

National Secular Celebrations

Apart from the main Christian and Muslim holidays, people in Sierra Leone also celebrate other holidays. These holidays include New Years Day which is usually on January 1 and Labour Day which takes place on May 1. Other celebrations are the National Independence Day on April 27 and the National Day on August 9.

Sierra Leone is a state which is located in the coast of West Africa. It is multilingual, has freedom of religion, and depends on mining as its major economic activity.
By PTI: minister

(Eds: Incorporating additional quotes, details)

Kolkata, Sep 18 (PTI) The Rohingya crisis is both a humanitarian and security issue, Bangladesh minister Mohammed Shahriar Alam said today, without ruling out the possibility of links between Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and foreign terror groups.

Rohingya Muslims are also a "security threat" for Bangladesh and there have been incidents in the past, and that is why the Bangladesh government has started registration of the Rohingya population, he said.

advertisement

"We have ordered the law enforcement agencies and the local administration to ensure that the Rohingya population do not move out of their designated area," Alam, Bangladeshs Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, said here.

He said Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has already condemned the attack on Myanmar security forces at Rakhine.

"We condemn the attacks (on Myanmar security forces) and we will continue to do so in future," he said.

Alam noted that Hasina will raise the Rohingya crisis with world leaders at the UN general assembly meet this week.

Asked about the security aspect of the Rohingya imbroglio, the Bangladesh minister said, "We are not aware of any linkages because it is taking place in a foreign land. But these organisations like (ARSA), if not linked, may be inspired by other terrorist forces. And we do not reject the idea of their being linked to foreign terrorists organisations."

Quizzed about the possibility of talks between Myanmar and Bangladesh on the matter, he said, "We had made a few proposals, but we did not receive any favorable responses. There is a possibility of ministry-level talks at the sidelines of the UN meet."

Alam said Bangladesh has already issued a "note verbale" to the Myanmar envoy in Dhaka about the alleged use of land mines at the Myanmar-Bangladesh border to stop the Rohingyas from fleeing into Bangladesh.

"The people who were trying to flee the Rakhine state...some of them actually took videos and photos and we are hosting at least three injured individuals who lost their legs and other body parts in mine blasts. We have two bodies of those who died in the mine blasts.

"Bangladesh is definitely part of the anti-mine campaign and a signatory to it. We have raised the issue with Mynamar authorities," he stated.

Alam said Bangladesh was at present hosting more than eight lakh Rohingyas and their influx will not have an impact on the countrys economy as of now.

"As our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that if the country can take care of its own population, it can also take care of eight to ten lakh (Rohingyas).

advertisement

"She (Hasina) said it on a humanitarian ground. But we do not want to see this (influx) continue. We want a solution to the problem," he said.

Bangladesh is pursuing a diplomatic route to resolve this crisis and the solution lies with the Kofi Annan Commission report, he said.

On Indias role in the crisis, Alam said, "We had a discussion (with India) at the diplomatic level. Our high commissioner had met the MEA foreign secretary of India. We had asked for their support so that India and Bangladesh are on the same page and we received reassurances".

The Indian government had already sent aid to cater to the Rohingya crisis, he added. PTI PNT KK iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii SRY

--- ENDS ---
Following the Kornilov affair, support for the Bolsheviks surges, and they win control of the Moscow and Petrograd soviets, followed one by one by provincial soviets. The crisis of the newly formed Kerensky dictatorship deepens. All the while, the war rages on, and mass hunger and deprivation fuel working-class rebellions around the world.

Moscow, September 18 (September 5, O.S.): Bolsheviks achieve a majority in the Moscow Soviet

Since the February Revolution, the Bolsheviks have been a minority in the system of soviets that were established during the overthrow of tsarism. Following his return to Russia, in the April Theses, Lenin insisted that the Bolsheviks recognize that they constituted a minority, so far a small minority, and that they set themselves up in opposition to the bloc of all the petty-bourgeois opportunist elements in the soviets, including the Mensheviks and the Socialist Revolutionaries (SRs).

The Bolshevik Party, in opposition to the Mensheviks and SRs, opposes the war and refuses to offer any support to the Kerensky regime. With its close connections to factory workers, soldiers, and sailors of the Baltic Fleet, the party gains a reputationamong allies as well as enemiesas the voice of the most far-reaching aspirations of workers for political power, radical social reorganization, and an end to imperialist war. The party advances the demand for a new international, consisting of parties in all countries oriented to world socialist revolution.

The positions of the Bolsheviks have earned them the hostility of the entire political establishment and all its supporters. Throughout the period following the February Revolution, and intensifying during the Kerensky offensive and the July Days, the Bolsheviks have been constantly slandered in all the mainstream newspapers. They are accused on all sides of having accepted German gold. Lenin is accused of being a paid agent of the German Kaiser, and nearly every day there is a new allegation that Bolsheviks are plotting with dark forces to bring about some or other betrayal or catastrophe for the country.

But political retribution is not slow in coming, Trotsky writes from prison at the end of August (With Blood and Iron). Hunted, persecuted, slandered, our party has never grown as quickly as of late. And this process will not be slow to spill over from the capital to the provinces, from the cities into the country and army. The peasants can see and hear that it is those very authorities, for the very same reasons, that are crushing the land committees and are persecuting the Bolsheviks. The soldiers can observe the wild hallooing directed at the Bolsheviks and at the same time sense the counterrevolutionary noose growing ever tighter around their neck. All the working masses of the country will learn from their new experiences to tie their fate to the fate of our party. Without for one minute ceasing to be the class organization of the proletariat, but, on the contrary, completely fulfilling this role only now, our party will in the fire of repression become the true leader, the support and hope of all oppressed, crushed, deceived and persecuted masses.

Following the victory of the Petrograd working class over Kornilov (see: September 4  10: The Kornilov affair), the Bolsheviks win majorities not only in the Petrograd Soviet, but in the Moscow Soviet and provincial soviets as well. The growth of the influence and strength of the Bolsheviks was undoubted, and it had now received an irresistible impetus, Trotsky writes. The Bolsheviks had warned against the Coalition, against the July offensive, and had foretold the Kornilov rebellion. The popular masses could now see that we had been right.

The Bolsheviks are quickly being transformed into the most powerful force on the political stage. Tremendous organizational efforts are required for the party to keep pace with the increase in membership and support, but the Bolsheviks have been preparing for and anticipating this shift all along. What distinguished our party almost from the very first stage of the Revolution was the firm conviction that the logic of events would eventually place it in power, Trotsky later writes in The History of the Russian Revolution to Brest-Litovsk (1918).

Northern Italy, September 16-18: Popular insurgency seizes several cities, borders sealed

Beginning September 17, the Italian military seals the borders not only to the hostile Austria but also to neutral Switzerland. Neither post nor rail traffic can cross. This is in response to an insurgency that has seized several cities in industrially developed northern Italy. The Italian government wants to prevent the infiltration of revolutionaries living in exile in Switzerland and block letters with news from Russia.

The Italian government finds it increasingly difficult to get a grip on the food situation. From the beginning of September, a series of measures has been planned for the rationing of important food supplies and raw materials. The state also moves to monopolize the shoe industry and limit private ownership of automobiles. Exceptions will be allowed only for state officials and diplomats. Bread will be rationed.

In Turin, where there was already a general strike in August, the issuing of bread rationing cards is announced for October 1.

The Corriere de la Sera reports on September 16 that the Cabinet has gathered the night before in an extraordinary session because a serious domestic crisis has broken out. Five ministers who already departed for the weekend are called back. Due to the food problems, the council of ministers comes to severe disagreements.

On the same day, armed conflict breaks out between workers and soldiers in the city of Parma over poor supply conditions. Martial law is declared. The social democratic newspaper Vorwarts reports, basing itself on a story in the Bund newspaper from Bern, that there are riots in the streets.

Also on September 16, there are press reports of acts of sabotage by workers. Protesting the war, dockworkers in Civita Veccha refuse to unload shipments of grain that have reached the ports after they have repeatedly escaped the pursuit of U-boats while in transit.

Sydney, September 19: Australian Great Strike betrayed by union bureaucracy

On September 19, ironworkers and engineers in the Sydney railways return to work. The next day, 300 boilermakers end industrial action, returning to the Eveleigh rail workshop in Sydneys inner-city. They are among the last workers to have resisted the sell-out of the Great Strike.

The general stoppage throughout the east coast transport sector and related industries involves around 100,000 workers between early August and September 9, when the union officialdom agrees to end the action without any demands having been won.

From the outset, the union officialdom is fearful that the strike will develop into a broader political movement. In many sectors, union bureaucrats only declare that their members are on strike after workers leave the job. The stoppage is prompted by widespread hostility to the introduction of time-cards and other measures aimed at boosting productivity in the railways and among tram workers. It intersects with mounting opposition to the imperialist world war and is heavily influenced by socialist and anti-war activists.

The Nationalist government of Billy Hughes and state governments in Victoria and New South Wales respond with repression, laying charges against individual union leaders and moving for the deregistration and effective illegalization of entire unions. Politically allied to the Labor Party and hostile to socialism, the union officialdom is unwilling and unable to put up any opposition.

On September 9, the strikes Defence Committee, headed by senior union leaders, signs a deal with the authorities ending all strike action. The sell-out agreement does not win any concessions and includes a clause providing the Railway Commissioner with discretion in filling all vacancies. The wording of the deal leaves all the strikers effectively unemployed, forcing them to reapply for their job and creating the conditions for widespread victimization.

Significant sections of workers resist the betrayal. An article in the Daily Telegraph reports on a meeting of 600 to 700 railway workers, called to discuss the terms of the settlement. It states, Almost to a man they expressed bitter resentment at the Strike Committees action, and more than one angrily exclaimed, We have been sold out.... [O]ne member declared, amidst approval, that if a satisfactory explanation was not forthcoming they ought to sack their Defence Committee and select another in its place.

However, in the absence of an alternative perspective and facing significant repression, the strike movement is unable to counteract the betrayal. None of the issues facing the working class are resolved, and on September 21 food riots erupt in the central business district of Melbourne. Newspaper accounts report hundreds of working class women marching through the city, smashing windows, before demanding at Federal Parliament that the government restrict the export of foodstuffs.

Washington D.C., September 20: Wilson orders use of chemical weapons and flamethrowers

The War Department, based on instructions from US President Woodrow Wilson, orders the Army to develop and use chemical weapons and flamethrowers in combat against Germany and the Central Powers. A New York Times article on the order comments that the use of such methods by the enemy forces the United States to retaliate with similar measures. In fact, it demonstrates that the methods of the democratic United States are no different than those of German Kaiserism, so frequently denounced in the Times. The use of poison or poisoned weapons is expressly banned by the 1899 Hague Declaration Concerning Asphyxiating Gases and the 1907 Hague Convention on Land Warfare. While signed by all belligerents, these agreements are cast aside in the Great War, which has seen tens of thousands of soldiers killed and maimed by poisons, including mustard gas and chlorine.

American soldier Stull Holt, in a letter sent home this month, describes the sensation of being hit by a mustard gas shell. I got several breathes [sic] of the strong solution right from the shell before it got diluted with much air. If it hadnt been for the fellow with me I probably wouldnt be writing this letter because I couldnt see, my eyes were running water and burning, so was my nose and I could hardly breathe. I gasped, choked and felt the extreme terror of the man who goes under in the water and will clutch at a straw.

Russia, September 20 (September 7, O.S.): Transcaucasia declared an independent federal republic

Kerenskys sudden and unilateral declaration of Russia as a republic only accelerates the centrifugal forces that are tearing the former tsarist empire apart. In Transcaucasia (roughly modern-day Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan), a Council of Transcaucasian Peoples, consisting in substantial part of former members of the tsarist Duma, is formed to declare the region an independent federal republic. A provisional government is constituted for the region.

However, the bourgeois leaders that comprise this new regime are at odds with each other over the basic composition and structure of the new government. The rise of national aspirations is accompanied by intensifying internecine tensions in a region that has been home to many different nationalities, ethnicities and religions throughout history.

Ypres, September 20: Horrific losses continue to accumulate in Flanders

With Britains initial attempts to gain ground following the launch of the Third Battle of Ypres July 31 having proved a costly failure, commanders alter their tactics by increasing firepower at the front and setting more modest goals for advancing troops. The number of heavy artillery pieces at the disposal of the British has been doubled, allowing British forces to advance close to one mile on the first day of the Battle of the Menin Road Ridge.

The main objective of the attack is to capture the Gheluvelt Plateau, which has been used as an important defensive base by the Germans throughout August.

While the British Army command trumpets the limited advances as a great success, they come at a terrible price. Between September 20 and 25, British forces suffer over 20,000 casualties, including 3,148 deaths. The 19th Division alone lost 1,933 men. Similar numbers of German defenders were killed, including during huge artillery barrages described by observers as creating a wall of fire 1,000 yards deep.

A subsequent British attack, known as the Battle of Polygon Wood, on September 26 results in a further 15,000 casualties on the British side, including over 1,200 deaths. Two Australian divisions, the 4th and 5th, experience extremely heavy losses, with 1,717 and 5,471 dead or wounded between September 26 and 28. There are 13,000 German casualties between September 21 and 30.

German soldiers launch repeated counter-attacks, recapturing some of the territory at the southern end of the British advance. Territory in the area changes hands frequently over a two-week period as German troops launch 24 counter-attacks between September 26 and October 3. The German defenders rely increasingly on poison gas.

Washington D.C., September 20: Wilson creates commission to quell strike wave

President Wilson orders the formation of a federal mediation commission, the aim of which is to stop the national strike wave that has seen hundreds of thousands of workers walk off the job across the US this year, and to assist the various state and local agencies attempting to quash the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and the growing influence of radicalism among American workers.

The Presidents Mediation Commission will be headed up by Secretary of Labor William B. Wilson, and will include representatives of big business and the American Federation of Labor, as well as the jurist Felix Frankfurter, who is named commission secretary.

Even as the White House announces Wilsons executive order, the strike wave gains pace. A strike of some 25,000 workers at San Francisco shipyards and machine shops has spread to facilities in Seattle. In Pittsburgh, 5,000 steelworkers have struck the Jones and Laughlin Plant, after 400 workers walked out last week. A strike of 6,500 longshoremen in New York City and Hoboken, New Jersey ends after several days, under threat that the Wilson administration might declare both areas military ports. In Lynn, Massachusetts, 12,000 striking shoe workers are expected to return to work this week. They have been on strike since April.

Russia, September 21 (September 8, O.S.): Resignation of army chief deepens crisis of Provisional Government

General Alekseev, Commander in Chief of the Russian Army, resigns. Formerly the Kadet candidate for prime minister, Alekseev is a reactionary who loyally served the tsar. He accepts the position of head of the military with the aim of easing the fate of the arrested Kornilov and his supporters. Just 10 days prior, when officers in the Petrograd Military District were trying to subvert the struggle against Kornilov by undermining the military readiness of troops directed to defend the city, Kerensky considered stepping aside in favor of Alekseev.

The tsarist generals departure is an indication that the Provisional Governments efforts to contain the consequences of the Kornilov affair and protect the right-wing forces unleashed are collapsing. As Alekseev is pushed out, War Minister Verkhovksy announces that all higher officers within the military are also being cashieredon the grounds that whether or not they were involved in the Kornilov affair, they knew of it. By these standards, Kerensky should have removed himself from office.

Verkhovsky declares a new regime in the military, one in which order is maintained through right, justice, and firm discipline, not with whips and machine guns. His words are unconvincing. The working masses and the soldiers are moving rapidly to the left. The Baltic Fleet, the crown jewel of the Russian naval forces, is now flying the red battle flag. The newspaper of the Krondstadt Soviet declares, We have had quite enough compromise! All power to the working people.

Recalling the new War Ministers statements, Trotsky later writes in The History of the Russian Revolution that they sounded quite like the spring days of the revolution. But it was September outdoors, and the autumn was coming.

Finland, September 19-22 (September 6-9, O.S.): Lenin writes three articles on strategy

From hiding in Finland, Lenin writes three important articles addressing the question of what strategy the Bolshevik Party should adopt in the wake of the Kornilov affair: The Tasks of the Revolution, The Russian Revolution and Civil War, and One of the Fundamental Questions of the Revolution. These articles will be published in Bolshevik newspapers in subsequent weeks.

In an earlier letter dated September 16 (September 3, O.S.) and published September 19, entitled On Compromises, Lenin examines whether it would be possible to build a new government founded on the soviets on the basis of a compromise with the Mensheviks and SRs. These parties were, after all, compelled during the Kornilov affair to support the mobilization of the working class against the threat of counter-revolution. Such a course, which is favored by figures such as Kamenev and Zinoviev, could in all probability secure the peaceful advance of the whole revolution, and provide exceptionally good chances for great strides in the world movement towards peace and the victory of socialism, Lenin writes.

However, when news arrives that Kerensky has formed a dictatorship consisting of a directory dominated by advocates of war and repressionwhich the Mensheviks and SRs continue to supportLenin adds a postscript: After reading todays papers, I say to myself: perhaps it is already too late to offer a compromise. .. Yes, to all appearances, the day when by chance the path of peaceful development became possible has already passed. In Tasks of the Revolution, Lenin writes:

Let us. .. not harbor any illusions about the Socialist-Revolutionary and Menshevik parties; let us stick firmly to the path of our proletarian class. The poverty of the poor peasants, the horrors of the war, the horrors of hungerall these are showing the masses more and more clearly the correctness of the proletarian path, the need to support the proletarian revolution. The peaceful hopes of the petty bourgeoisie that there might be a coalition with the bourgeoisie and agreements with them, that it will be possible to wait calmly for the speedy convocation of the Constituent Assembly, etc., have been mercilessly, cruelly, implacably destroyed by the course of the revolution. The Kornilov revolt was the last cruel lesson, a lesson on a grand scale, supplementing thousands upon thousands of small lessons in which workers and peasants were deceived by local capitalists and landowners, in which soldiers were deceived by the officers etc., etc.

Lenin calls upon the Bolsheviks to take their program to those down below, to the masses, to the office employees, to the workers, to the peasants, not only to our supporters, but particularly to those who follow the Socialist-Revolutionaries, to the non-party elements, to the ignorant. Let us lift them up so that they can pass an independent judgment, make their own decisions Experience teaches us that the Bolshevik program and tactics are correct. So little time passed, so much happened from April 20 to the Kornilov revolt.

Lenin continues: The experience of the masses, the experience of oppressed classes taught them very, very much in that time; the leaders of the Socialist-Revolutionaries and Mensheviks have completely cut adrift from the masses. This will most certainly be revealed in the discussion of our concrete program insofar as we are able to bring it to the notice of the masses. (Quotes and translations of "On Compromises" from Alexander Rabinowtich, The Bolsheviks Come to Power, Haymarket Books 2009, p. 170).



Also this week: Bloody stalemate persists on Southern Front

The Austro-Hungarian and Italian armies have fought each other to a bloody stalemate on the Southern Front. Following last weeks conclusion of the 11th Battle of Isonzo, Italys armed forces, confronted with mutinies and high casualty rates, are incapable of launching further attacks. Austria-Hungarys army is fairing little better and is on the verge of collapse.

To prevent this, increased numbers of German soldiers and officers, freed up by the failure of Kerenskys offensive on the Eastern Front, have been arriving on the Italian Front. The 14th Army, initially established as a German-only force, will later become a combined Austro-Hungarian-German unit, under the command of Otto von Below. Poison gas experts, including the scientist Otto Hahn, who is responsible for leading the work on the production of German gas shells, have also been drafted to help plan a new attack. Concluding that the Austro-Hungarian troops cannot withstand a further assault by the Italians, the Austro-Hungarian army command has decided to take the offensive with German assistance.

The nine battles of Isonzo waged prior to 1917 cost the lives of some 70,000 Italians, while the two Isonzo battles this year have claimed a further 76,000. On the Austro-Hungarian side, incomplete figures suggest that at least 40,986 soldiers and 1,323 officers will have died on the Italian front by years end. The fighting on the Italian front is considered among the bitterest in the war, with mountains torn to pieces by mines and shells, and hand-to-hand combat occurring with bayonets and axes.

The bitter warfare is having profound consequences on the civilian population. Food shortages among the populations in both countries and the death tolls at the front are leading to more strikes and anti-war protests. There are 60,000 desertions among the Italian soldiers.

Also this month: Kathe Kollwitz works on memorial for her fallen son

In September 1917, the painter and sculptor Kathe Kollwitz works on a memorial for her son Peter who was killed in the First Battle of Ypres. She has been working on it since 1914, but stops frequently.

Immediately after the beginning of the war, the 18-year-old Peter wanted to volunteer for military service but needed the consent of his father. His father was against the war and initially declined. An older son, Hans, was already drafted. Kathe Kollwitz was against it at first but finally changed her mind. She writes in her memoirs in 1943: How it came to be that I underwent this change is not entirely clear to me. I cursed the war, I knew that it would mean the greatest hardship. That I did not resist is probably due to the fact that I was unable to be entirely one with the boy in these times.

It is clear from the entries in her diary that the character of the war was not really clear to her at this time. She and her husband were both members of the Social Democratic Party, which did everything it could to justify the vote for war credits to its followers, presenting the war as a defensive one. She let herself be carried away by Peters war fever and helped him change his fathers mind. On October 13, 1914, the young volunteer, poorly trained with a barely healed knee injury, went to war. Hard day, very hard day, Kollwitz wrote in her diary. Ten days later he was dead. It is a wound in our lives that will never heal and is not meant to, she wrote.

In the following years, she criticized the war and attempted to cope with her pain by working on the memorial for her son. She initially began by sculpting Peters head. Then she designed a relief: mourning parents embracing each other with heads bowed. During this time, she also created one of her most important sculptures, Pieta, a barely 40-centimeter tall bronze statue. (A copy four times its size is placed in the Neue Wache in Berlin, the Central Memorial of the Federal Republic of Germany for the Victims of War and Dictatorship.)

In September, she writes in her diary: Worked this week  good. I see more clearly that this path leads to my goal, but also, that the goal is still so far away that years will pass before I am finished with Peters work  If I do this really well, there will be in this work much other work that would otherwise have to be expressed separately  with unending slowness I discover what this should be. She will take a total of 18 years before completing the memorial. (It stands today in the Vladslo German war cemetery in Belgium.)

Kollwitzs grief over her son and the experience of the war go hand-in-hand with increasingly strong partisanship for the poor and oppressed and their artistic representation. She takes part in peace rallies. Attentively and full of hope, she follows the developments of the revolution in Russia. She writes on November 8: In Russia the tremendously important revolutions. The revolutionary socialists are in the government. They want to organize Russia socialistically, communistically. Max Wertheimer [a friend] expects the same spirit in Russia to spread throughout Europe. He believes in a vast moral uprising. At the end of the year, she writes: Russia has given us new prospects. Something new has now come into the world, something which seems to me definitely good.

What she began in 1897 with her cycle on the Weavers Revolt and in 1908 with the Peasant War, she continues in a new form after the war with etchings and her famous charcoal drawings like Bread, Killed in Action, and Never Again War. After the murder of Karl Liebknecht, she dedicates a woodcut to him.
India is home to the largest number of refugees in South Asia yet it does not have a specific legal framework to deal with the problem. Rohingya crisis presents an opportunity to put in place a law relating to status of refugees.

By Prabhash K Dutta: According to United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 3 lakh Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmar since August 25 when the latest phase of violence broke out in the Rakhine province of the country.

Earlier in May this year, the UNHCR stated that about 1,68,000 Rohingyas had fled Myanmar since 2012, when clashes with Buddhists erupted in the trouble-torn Arakan region. Over 40,000 of those Rohingyas, who fled Myanmar, have entered India illegally , according to government's estimate.

advertisement

The Narendra Modi government is concerned over Rohingyas' stay in India for security regions. In its affidavit to the Supreme Court, the government said that some of the Rohingyas with militant background were found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat. They have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal and national security of India, the Centre told the Supreme Court.

WHAT GOVERNMENT WANTS TO DO WITH ROHINGYAS?

Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju has stated it categorically that the government is looking for ways to deport over 40,000 Rohingyas living in the country illegally. The government is worried about the suspected infiltration of terror outfits among the displaced people living in various camps.

The UNHCR and the Amnesty International, however, asked India to reconsider its decision saying that the Rohingyas are the most persecuted ethnic group in the world. India should adopt humanitarian approach in dealing with Rohingya problem, they said.

Refusing to bow under international pressure over Rohingya crisis, India made it clear that it would not compromise with the security concerns of the country. However, the government decided to extend help to Bangladesh in providing all amenities to the fleeing Rohingyas, who are being relocated in camps there. India also asked Myanmar to end persecution of Rohingyas.

ROHINGYAS AS REFUGEES IN INDIA

Though India has the biggest number of refugees in the country in the entire South Asia and dealt with one of the biggest refugee crises in the world during partition of the country seven decades back, New Delhi does not have a refugee specific law.

The Constitution of India only defines who is a citizen of India. The subsequent laws also do not deal with refugees. In legal terms, a person living in India can be either a citizen or a foreigner defined under the Foreigners Act, 1946.

India has also not been a signatory of the 1951 UN Convention or the 1967 Protocol - both relating to the Status of Refugees and included in the UNHCR statute. According to the UNHCR, a refugee is a person living in another country following persecution in his own on the grounds of "race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion."

advertisement

Before the present Rohingya crisis broke out, there were "2,07,861 persons of concern in India, of whom 2,01,281 were refugees and 6,480 asylum seekers" by the end of 2015, according to UNHCR.

There are about 16,000 UNHCR-certified Rohingya refugees in India. The government estimate puts the figure of Rohingya refugees living in India beyond 40,000 with maximum concentration in and around Jammu.

ISSUES WITH ROHINGYAS LIVING IN INDIA

Before the Rohingya crisis acquired international proportion, their population in Myanmar was estimated at around 10 lakh. Under the 1982 citizenship law, Myanmar government recognised only about 40,000 Rohingyas as its citizens. The rest were dubbed as "illegal Bengalis" - immigrants from Bangladesh.

As the Myanmar government does not recognise the Rohingyas as its citizens, in general, it will be difficult for India to deport them. And, in the absence of a well defined refugee policy backed by a law passed by Parliament, India won't be able to accommodate Rohingyas as their stay in the country will give a spin to political narrative.

The Centre has told the Supreme Court that many Rohingyas have acquired documents meant for Indian citizens only like Aadhaar, PAN and Voter-ID. This raises the concern of naturalisation of illegal migrants by fraudulent means. Given the socio-economic complexities of Indian society and politics, soon there may be a debate around the minority rights of the Rohingyas.

advertisement

In the absence of a law to deal with refugees, their identification and surveillance will become difficult especially when the intelligence agencies have warned the jihadi terror outfits are looking to exploit the vulnerability of Rohingyas.

REFUGEE POLICY AND A BILL

Till now the successive governments have dealt with refugee question on case by case basis. The Tibetan refugees were given the Registration Certificates and the Identity Certificates.

The Sri Lankan Tamils, who fled their country to escape persecution by the government forces when the island nation was battling with the LTTE insurgency, were classified as "camp refugees" and "non-camp refugees".

The minority refugees - Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians - from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan were allowed to stay in India on Long Term Visas.

In 2015, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor introduced a Private Member's Bill titled the Asylum Bill, 2015 in the Lok Sabha. The Bill seeks to provide for the establishment of a legal framework to deal with refugee problem. But, the Bill has not yet been taken up for consideration.

advertisement

--- ENDS ---
Panama City, Fla. - The Bay District School teacher accused of keeping a drug house in Callaway is suspended but will likely receive pay for at least another week.

"Teachers do get due process in something like this," said Deputy Superintendent Sandra Davis.

Williams was arrested late last week after Bay County Sheriff's Deputies executed a search warrant at her Barton Avenue home. Deputies wrote in an arrest affidavit that numerous people with drug charges and even people wanted for arrest were seen frequenting Williams' home.

Deputies also wrote they found drug paraphernalia in her Barton Avenue home, controlled substances in the master bedroom, and a new legend drug in her purse. Suspected controlled substances were located in a shed on the property, they added.

Once arrested, Williams allegedly also told deputies that she used meth once a day.

In a letter to Kenya Williams, 42, a first grade teacher at Breakfast Point Academy, Human Resources Director Sharon Michalik wrote, "Based on your recent arrest you are suspended, with pay, at this time and may not return to work without first having an informal hearing with the Superintendent.

Superintendent Bill Husfelt is expected to meet with Williams next week.

"The individual can bring a representative with them to the hearing that the superintendent holds, and then the superintendent can move after that hearing to recommend termination to the school board. Only the school board has the authority to suspend without pay," Davis said.

If Husfelt recommends termination of Williams' employment, school board members could vote whether to accept his recommendation and fire Williams at their regularly scheduled meeting on September 26th.

News 13 pulled Williams' personnel file and found no complaints. The records also show Williams has been rated as a highly effective teacher, an evaluation largely based on student test scores and principal evaluation.

At her first appearance, Williams was released without a bond but ordered to submit to random drug testing and prohibited from consuming alcohol. Williams is scheduled to return to court on November 7th.

News 13 tried to call Williams Friday afternoon but could not reach her.

===

A first-grade teacher at Breakfast Point Academy is charged with keeping a drug house.

Kenya Williams, 42, of Panama City, was arrested late last week after Bay County Sheriff's deputies executed a search warrant at her Barton Avenue home. Deputies wrote in an arrest affidavit that numerous people with drug charges and even people wanted for arrest were seen frequenting Williams' home.

Deputies also wrote that they found drug paraphernalia in her Barton Avenue home, controlled substances in the master bedroom, and a new legend drug in her purse. Suspected controlled substances were located in a shed on the property, they added.

Once arrested Williams allegedly told deputies that she used meth once a day.

Bay district school officials confirmed Friday that Williams she has now been suspended with pay and that they notified, Professional Practices, the division of Florida's Department of Education that oversees teacher certification, of the arrest.

At her first appearance, Williams was released without a bond but ordered to submit to random drug testing and prohibited from consuming alcohol. Williams is scheduled to return to court on November 7.

Copyright 2017 Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - A Florida couple has been arrested after being caught stealing downed powerlines.

The Seminole County Sheriff's Office wrote about the incident on Facebook.

They say that the investigation into the couple began over the weekend when resident reported two suspects on his property without permission, cutting downed power lines.

The resident told deputies that the pole supporting the lines had snapped in half during Hurricane Irma, leaving the neighborhood in the dark.

SCSO says that the suspects were cutting and damaging lines belonging to a local power company, to store it in the back of their truck.

Further investigation revealed at least $5,000 worth of downed power lines were cut up and placed in the back of the vehicle.

When deputies questioned the couple, they found reason to search their car for drugs.

Deputies found marijuana and meth in the truck along with drug paraphernalia. As a result, 41-year-old Charles Mahoy and 45-year-old Andrea Foster were both arrested for larceny during a state of emergency, criminal mischief and drug possession.
The government in its 16-page affidavit expressed fears of violence against Buddhists living in India by radicalised Rohingyas.

By Anusha Soni, Sanjay Sharma: The government today told the Supreme Court that Rohingya refugees pose a big security threat as many of them have links with terror organisations and Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

The government in its 16-page affidavit expressed fears of violence against Buddhists living in India by radicalised Rohingyas.

The Centre told the top court that it will also file its response to a PIL challenging deportation of Rohingya Muslims back to Myanmar.

advertisement

On August 18, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had issued notice to the Centre over its plan to deport Rohingya immigrants, who have been residing in various parts of India.

HERE'S WHAT THE GOVT TOLD SUPREME COURT:

Due to an already existing large influx of illegal immigrants from the neighbouring countries, the demographic profile of some of the bordering states has already undergone a serious change which is already causing the far-reaching complications in various contexts and is taking its toll and has a direct detrimental effect on the fundamental and basic human rights of country's own citizens.

So far as the Rohingyas are concerned, they claim to have entered into (admittedly without any valid travel document and illegally) from Myanmar using porous border between India and Myanmar. The total number of such illegal immigrants into our country would be more than 40,000 approximately as on date.

The Central Government obviously takes into consideration various factors inter alia, broad facts referred above. It is submitted that continuance of Rohingyas' illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats.

Illegal influx of Rohingyas, in significant numbers, have started into the territory of India since 2012-13 and the Central Government has contemporaneous from security agencies inputs and other authentic material indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries.

Over and above the said serious security concern already in existence , more disturbing part is that there is an organised influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar through agents and touts facilitating illegal immigrants Rohingyas into India via Benapole-Haridaspur (West Bengal), Hilli (West Bengal) and Sonamora (Tripura), Kolkata and Guwahati. This situation is seriously harming the national security of the country.

It is observed by the Central Government that some Rohingyas are indulging in illegal/anti-national activities i.e. mobilization of funds through hundi/hawala channels, procuring fake/fabricated Indian identity documents for other Rohingyas and also indulging in human trafficking. They are also using their illegal network for illegal entry of others in the India. Many of them have managed to acquire fake/fraudulently obtained Indian identity documents i.e. PAN Card and voter cards.

It is also found by the Central Government that many of the Rohingyas figure in the suspected sinister designs of ISI/ISIS and other extremists groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India including that of flaring up communal and sectarian violence in sensitive areas of the country.

There is also a serious potential and possibility of eruption of violence against the Buddhists who are Indian citizens who stay on Indian soil, by the radicalized Rohingyas.

Some of the Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal / national security of India.India is a country with large population, surplus labour force, and has its complex social/cultural/economical infrastructure. Providing facilities/ privileges to illegal immigrants out of the existing national resources, apart from above referred direct threat to national security, would also have a direct adverse impact upon Indian citizens as it would deprive the Indian citizens of their legitimate share in the employment sector, subsidized housing, medical and educational facilities and would thereby culminate in hostility towards immigrants resulting into an inevitable social tension and law and order problems. The fundamental rights of Indian citizens would, therefore, be seriously violated.

--- ENDS ---
You are the owner of this article.
Stripped of protections offered by a just-ended federal program for young, undocumented immigrants, about a dozen of them sat in the Mexican c
Bangladesh has said it would free 2,000 acres (810 hectares) of land for a new camp in Cox's Bazar district to provide shelter to Rohingya refugees.

By India Today Web Desk: Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen, who has been living in exile since 1994, has slammed the Sheikh Hasina government of her country for giving shelter to thousands of Rohingya Muslims fleeing neighbouring Myanmar.

Nasreen, in her tweet, pointed out that the Bangladesh government was concerned about Rohingyas only because they are Muslims who would be used as a votebank.

advertisement

"Bangladesh offered land to shelter Rohingya. What if these people were Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jews but not Muslims? Shelter not for humanity but for votes!" Taslima Nasreen said in her scathing tweet.

B'desh offerd land 2shelter Rohingya.What if thse ppl wre Hindus,Buddhists,Christians,Jews but not Muslims?Shelter not 4humanity but 4votes!- taslima nasreen (@taslimanasreen) September 18, 2017

The UN said on Saturday the total number of people to have entered Bangladesh having fled the unrest had now reached 4,09,000, a leap of 18,000 in a day.

Bangladesh has said it would free 2,000 acres (810 hectares) of land for a new camp in Cox's Bazar district, to help shelter newly arrived Rohingyas. The government was also fingerprinting and registering new arrivals.

Rohingya have faced decades of discrimination and persecution in Myanmar and are denied citizenship despite centuries-olds roots in the Rakhine region.

Before August 25, Bangladesh had already been housing more than 100,000 Rohingya who arrived after bloody anti-Muslim rioting in 2012 or amid earlier persecution drives in Myanmar.

WATCH: Islam prescribes violence and intolerance: Taslima Nasreen

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: (Eds: With additional details)

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) Terming the Rohingya refugees as "illegal" immigrants, the government today told the Supreme Court that some of them were part of a "sinister" design of Pakistans ISI and terror groups such as the ISIS, whose presence in the country will pose a "serious" national security threat.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) made its stand clear in a much-awaited affidavit in the apex court, in which it also said the fundamental right to settle in any part of the country was available only to citizens and not the Rohingyas.

advertisement

It categorically stated that the apex court should not invoke its jurisdiction, as the issue of Rohingyas "fell under the exclusive domain of policy decision of the executive".

The affidavit was filed hours after a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that the government would file its reply in the course of the day on the PIL by two Rohingyas, challenging their deportation.

The affidavit was submitted as a response to a plea, filed by Rohingya immigrants Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, claiming they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

In the matter which will be heard next on October 3, the MHA said the "continuance of Rohingyas illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats."

Referring to the inputs of security agencies, the affidavit said the "Rohingyas figured in the suspected sinister designs of ISI/ISIS and other extremists groups who want to achieve their ulterior motives in India".

Moreover, since there was a "serious national security threat/concern", the government should be allowed to exercise its essential executive function by way of a policy decision to deport the Rohingyas in the larger interest of the nation, the affidavit said.

"I state and submit that some of the Rohingyas with militant background are also found to be very active in Jammu, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mewat, and have been identified as having a very serious and potential threat to the internal/national security of India," the MHA official who signed the affidavit said, noting that their "illegal influx" in significant numbers, had started since 2012-13.

"The Central Government has contemporaneous security agencies inputs and other authentic material indicating linkages of some of the unauthorised Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organisations and similar organisations operating in other countries.

"Over and above the said serious security concern already in existence, more disturbing part is that there is an organised influx of illegal immigrants from Myanmar through agents and touts facilitating illegal immigrants Rohingyas into India ...This situation is seriously harming the national security of the country," it said.

advertisement

The affidavit said some Rohingyas were involved in "illegal and anti national activities" like mobilisation of funds through hawala channels, procuring fake Indian ID cards besides indulging in human trafficking.

"A fragile Northeastern corridor may become further destabilised in case of stridency of Rohingya militancy, which the Central Government has found to be growing, if permitted to continue," it said.

There was also a serious potential and possibility of eruption of violence against the Buddhists who are Indian citizens by radicalised Rohingyas, the MHA document said.

The Centre then dealt with the fundamental right of citizens to reside, settle and move freely inside the country and said the apex court should not entertain the plea for extending these rights to the illegal Rohingyas.

"No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general and the rights...," the affidavit said.

The MHA also said that the citizens rights like right to life and employment get adversely affected due to the burden on resources posed by the Rohingyas, whose numbers have now swelled to over 40,000.

advertisement

The factual situation, the potential threat to internal and national security, diversion of national resources differ from case to case and the government takes decision in discharge of its executive functions based upon empirical data and objective facts by way of policy, the affidavit said.

It dealt with the provisions of 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees and said these were not applicable as India was not a signatory to either of them.

Seeking dismissal of the PIL, the government said such an indulgence would "encourage illegal influx of illegal migrants into our country and thereby deprive the citizens of India of their fundamental and basic human rights."

"So far as India is concerned, national security considerations rank the highest on the countrys list of priorities, given its geopolitical influence in the region and its vulnerability to cross border infiltrations due to the porous nature of its borders, which our country shares with many countries," it said.

The MHA also said the inputs of security agencies and other sensitive details may be filed later by it in a sealed cover to substantiate its assertions made in the affidavit.

advertisement

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre. PTI SJK ABA PKS RKS ARC

--- ENDS ---
A number of families are demanding reparations from the government for the Yemenite Children Affairin which hundreds of babies and toddlers of Yemenite who have just recently immigrated to Israel disappeared between 1948 to 1954, in what some believe was a "major cover up" of their kidnappings.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The demand was sent to the office of Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon earlier this month by Attorneys David and Chaya Mena representing several families whose relatives disappeared in the affair, demanding that 1,050 families affected by the affair be compensated.

"Since what is done is irreversible, we are demanding that the government compensate these families," the letter said. "Compensation for the families is the minimum (that can be doneed) to put an end to this affair." The attorneys then requested mutually agreed-upon specifications that will determine the amount of compensation for each family.





Yemenite children (Archive photo: David Eldan, GPO)

"We want to prevent this case from going to court," explained Mena. "We ask that a committee be set up on the matter. The moment that Kahlon does not meet our demands, we will go to court. At the moment, a class action suit is pending.

The families we represent will constitute case studies for more than 1,000 families who deserve compensation from the state."

The lawyer made it clear that families who agree to receive compensation will relinquish their right to sue the state over the affair in the future, effectively putting it behind them.

"You can't let this affair drag on to no end," Mena said.

"The state behaved like the driver in a hit-and-run," claimed Menachem Yizhari, whose brother disappeared when Yizhari was six years old. His is one of the families that demand compensation for the public.

"Our case had far-reaching consequences," he said. "My mother stopped functioning after they kidnapped my brother. As an eight-year-old boy, I found myself living in a shack in Rosh HaAyin on my own, cooking for myself and doing my own laundry. I went through hell until I joined the IDF. Someone has to pay for what we went through."

Yizhari searched for his older brother for years. He used his access to police computers while he was volunteering in the Civil Guard and discovered that his brother's identity card exists but his name is encrypted. After some inquiries he finally discovered that his brother is alive, but did not live in Israel.

"I thought I lived in a law abiding state, but not everyone is equal before the law," he said. "The state is very dear to me, but at the same time it is an open and painful wound."

Yizhari added that, while deserved, the money will not mean the end of the affair and the silencing of the families.

"There is no price to what we went through," he asserted, demanding that the files (on the affair) be opened and that the state "ensures that my brother, who is somewhere in the world, knows that he has a family here. To find these children before it's too late."

A rally in Jerusalem demanding justice for the Yemenite children, June 2017 (Photo: TPS)

Hanoch Oz, a member of the Rosh Ha'ayin Municipality Council, whose aunt disappeared when she was a baby, also demands compensation but does not forfeit recognition.

"The more we become aware of more and more cases, including clinical trials on children, the more I believe that the state must pay for this injustice," said Oz. "Our grandmothers died of grief because of the loss of their children, it has no price.The state must pay but also allow the opening of all the secret files (on the affair)."

Etty Ahimeir, whose sister disappeared in the 1950s, added: "Personally I do not need the money and I do not intend to use it for personal use. The payment of compensation has many implications, and if it is accepted, I can donate it to charity. The money will probably not heal our wounds."

The Yemenite Children affair resurfaced once again in the public debate in May last year following the Achim Vekayamim organizations stated intention to renew efforts to discover the truth behind one of the cases, which has caused a storm in Israel for decades.

Most cases in the Yemenite Children Affair involved the parents being told in the hospital that their newborn children had died, although they never received additional reliable information about their fates. The parents claim that their children were actually kidnapped to be given or sold to Ashkenazi families.
An event was held last week in honor of Captain (ret.) Elgen M. Long, 91, the last surviving crew member of Alaska Airlines who participated in an operation to smuggle some 47,000 Yemenite Jewsas well as 3,000 from several other countriesto Israel between 1948-1950 to save them from rising anti-Semitic violence.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The event was held in New York by the pro-Israel education and advocacy NGO StandWithUs. Alaska Airlines was also awarded for the risks that her pilots took in Operation On Wings of Eagles, also known as Operation Magic Carpet.

"When we landed at the airport in Tel Aviv, a young officer approached us and told me and my staff that we had done the right thing," Captain Long said. "We are all proud of the historic role we played in the realization of the prophecy of the return of Jews to Zion."

L to R: American Sephardic Federation representative Jason Guberman, StandWithUs Executive Director Shahar Azani, Captain Elgen M. Long and Alaska Airlines representative Tim Thompson (Photo: StandWithUs)

The CEO of Alaska Airlines agreed to a request by the Israeli government to secretly airlift the Jews of Yemen to Israel, despite objections from the company's board of directors.

The brave Alaska Airline crew members risked their lives to bring Jews to safety, despite not being Jewish themselves.

In one case, an Alaska Airlines pilot was forced to land in Cairo for emergency refueling. He knew the Egyptian authorities must not learn of the Jewish refugees he had on board, and so he had to improvise. The pilot told the airport's control tower he had a plane full of people sufferin from chickenpox and urgently asked for ambulances. Instead, the control tower sent him a refueling truck, so he could refuel and leave as quickly as possible.

Photo: StandWithUs

The event was organized by StandWithUs Executive Director Shahar Azani, whose family immigrated to Israel in the operation, and was sponsored by Alaska Airlines and the American Sephardic Federation.

"It is an honor for us to stand with a hero like Captain Long, who saved the lives of many Yemenite Jews. Thanks to him and his friends, we saw the prosperity of the community and of the state," Azani praised.

Minister of Science and Technology Ofir Akunis, representing the Israeli government, thanked Captain Long for his heroism and for taking part in the operation. He also emphasized the right of the Jewish people to its land and the unbreakable connection between the two, as reflected in the return of the Yemenite Jews home after their long exile.
A move to declare early primary election for the Meretz party leadership failed on Sunday, allowing Chairwoman Zehava Galon to finish out her term.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Only several hundreds of activists arrived at the Tel Aviv Convention Center to vote over whether or not to hold early elections, with 54.9 percent in favor.

However, since the move is considered a change to the party's constitution, it requires 60 percent of the votes to pass, of which it fell short.

Meretz leader Zehava Galon (Photo: Tomeriko)

In recent months, several players within the party have been working to move the vote earlier, to February 2018.

Chairwoman Galon saw the move as an attempt to oust her, and sources close to her said if the move succeeded, she planned to remove her candidacy and retire from the party.

Meretz MK Ilan Gilon (Photo: Tomeriko)

"People in the party decided to remove me," Galon said in a speech after the vote. "Is this the party we want to be? Is this how we look? When the prime minister lashes out against the Left, we could always talk about good governance, but we will always be reminded of (this move)."

She said she is nevertheless not disheartened. "I will continue the struggle to introduce open primaries in Meretz," she said.

MK Ilan Gilon, who seeks to replace Galon, said he was embarrassed at her public comments against the party. "The only one talking about an ouster is the head of the party," he said. "We don't have an ideological crisis. Our crisis, heaven forbid, is about the election system. I've never met a person who decided not to vote for Meretz over the election system."
SEOUL - The US military on Monday flew a pair of B-1B bombers and F-35 fighter jets in bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula, in a show of force against North Korea, South Korea's Defense Ministry said.

The bombers flew from Guam and the fighters flew from Japan, joined by six South Korean fighter jets in the drill, a South Korean defense ministry official said.
A 51-year-old Israeli man has become the first to be prosecuted in Russia under a new amendment to the country's Aviation Code after he tried to open a plane door mid-flight.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The man was sentenced to six months in prison, and Russian authorities hope the harsh punishment would deter others.

The Israeli man was arrested in May upon landing at Sheremetyevo International Airport after he became disorderly on an Aeroflot flight from Tel Aviv to Moscow.

Photo: Aeroflot

According to the verdict, the man was already drunk when boarding the flight and had additional alcoholic beverages in his bags.

He repeatedly tried to open the plane door mid-flight, ignoring instructions from flight crew to stop.

He was convicted of violent behavior, speaking loudly and cursing, threatening crewmembers and other passengers, and threatening the safety of the plane.

He was tried under the new amendment to the law, which came into effect in April. Under the amendment, violent passenfers can face $5,200-$8,600 fines; up to 480 house of community service; up to two years of rehabilitation labor; forced labor of up to five years; and prison sentences.

Before the amendment, violent passengers were given administrative punishments include a small fine and up to 15 days of arrest.
Col. Shai Siman-Tov, who was critically wounded during the 2014 Operation Protective Edge in Gaza, was awarded a medal of honor for his successful return to IDF service after recovering from his injury.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



"Victory for me is to return to the army, to continue serving in the army, to wear uniforms," Siman-Tov said in a video shown at the annual ceremony honoring disabled IDF veterans. "The fact the commanders decided I could stay in the army, to me, is a badge of honor, and I'm very appreciative."

He went on stage to accept the medal in a wheelchair.





IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot gives Siman-Tov his new colonel ranks (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)

IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot has recently promoted Siman-Tov to colonel in a show of appreciation for his contribution to the army.

IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot gives Siman-Tov his new colonel ranks (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)

Col. Siman-Tov, who was commanding the Golani Brigade's Barak Battalion during the operation, recounted the incident in Gaza City's Sajaiyya neighborhood that led to his injury.

"Our mission was locate an attack tunnel reaching (the Israeli community) Nahal Oz. We managed to locate the tunnel, and I decided to go with my smaller command team to examine the entrance shaft," he said

The tunnel collapsed on top of them. "I didn't believe this could happen to me, certainly not on that day. (A concrete beam) hit my helmet and broke five vertebrae in my spine. I was airlifted in critical condition to the Soroka Medical Center," he continued. "I remember waking up in the hospital. Danielle (his wife) told me I was wounded, and the injury was severe, and I might be left paralyzed."

Siman-Tov along with two others receives the medal of honor (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Siman-Tov went on to talk about his rehabilitation. "My first victory was to get back to breathing on my own. I was able to get off the respirator. That is a significant moment in rehabilitation," he said.

The head of the Defense Ministry's Disabled Rehabilitation Division, Hezi Meshita, said at the ceremony, "The message is that one can return to maximum activity after the injury and even more."

Also awarded the Medal of Honor was Anat Yahalom-Rimshon, the first woman to be awarded the medal, who was wounded during the Yom Kippur War from a bomb being dropped by enemy aircraft.

Siman-Tov along with two others receives the medal of honor (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

In addition, Noah Hertz, a fighter pilot who was returned from captivity, also received the medal after dedicating his life to public service.

Yoav Zitun contributed to this story.
DUBAI - Two Iranian-Americans serving 10-year prison sentences on spying charges in Iran should be immediately freed and paid restitution, a United Nations panel said on Monday, calling their "arbitrary" detention part of an "emerging pattern" by Tehran of targeting dual nationals.

The decision by a group of UN experts on the case of Siamak and Baquer Namazi comes as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani attends the world body's annual meeting in New York.

It puts new pressure on the moderate cleric's government to confront hard-liners within Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and judiciary, which repeatedly has arrested and prosecuted those with Western ties in the wake of the country's 2015 nuclear deal.

Siamak Namazi, a 46-year-old businessman who promoted closer ties between Iran and the West, was arrested in October 2015. His 81-year-old father Baquer, a former UNICEF representative who served as governor of Iran's oil-rich Khuzestan province under the US-backed shah, was arrested in February 2016, apparently drawn to Iran over fears about his incarcerated son.
The IDF is easing the requirements for basic training courses for female soldiers in mixed units by scrapping certain aspects of physical assessments following a decision taken by Combat Intelligence Collection Corps Brig. Gen. Mordechai Kahane.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



In an effort to ease the physical burden on women, Kahane said that the bar would be lowered during basic training by abolishing a requirement demanding that female soldiers jump over a walla component in the assessment that has proven to be, in many cases, an insurmountable obstacle for women.

The process for reducing the pressure exerted on female soldiers during their basic training began in August as part of a program headed by Kahane which was intended to discern and learn key lessons from basic training methods in recent years.

Female combat soldiers in Caracal (Photo: Roee Idan)

The IDF has in the past been criticized for the fact that girls were required to either clear a smaller wall or were assisted by a bench.

Unlike the US army, which sets an identical bar for men and women in the their military training, the IDF permits different criteria for women in accordance with physical differences.

Kahane, who served in the past as a commander in the special Egoz unit during the Second Lebanon War and fought in Gaza, argued that there was no justification for demanding that women surmount a wall as they undergo their basic training.

In two wars in Lebanon and Gaza I never saw a need to clear this kind of wall, Kahane said during discussions on the matter.

Underpinning his point, Kahane drew on his experiences when he presided over a commanders course.

Fewer than half of the soldiers from the elite infantry brigade managed to clear the wall before the course began, Kahane said, concluding therefore that it was not an accurate measure for examining the physical capabilities of a male or female soldier.

Photo: AFP

The decision to do away with the wall is not the only measure implemented by Kahane designed to alleviate physical burdens on female soldiers.

Six months ago he instructed that the number of full magazines carried by women in their combat vests be reduced from six to four.

If four magazines are not enough for female soldiers, while other male and female soldiers are around them, the battle has already been decided, Kahane told the commanders mooting the topic at the time.

When I was a commander in Egoz we fought in Lebanon for more than 30 days and there was not a single soldier for whom the magazines in his vest were not enough.

Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit

In addition to the assistance provided for female soldiers when climbing over the wall, male soldiers are also required to run three kilometres as part of their physical assessments as opposed to their female counterparts who are required to run two.

Kahane also came under criticism when he decreed that male and female soldiers be split up for certain classes, explaining that it would optimize the time for basic training that was already slashed due to separate physical training for men and women.

Regardless of the criticism, demand for drafting into the mixed units has reached a record high, especially among men.

Female combat soldiers

In the March draft, 200 more men joined such units. Since then the number of requests has rocketed to more than 500, outpacing the number of men racing toward other combat infantry units.

The jump in numbers however indicates a desire among soldiers to serve in combat positions which consist of comparatively less intense training courses.
US President Donald Trump teased with a possible, pending US strike against Iran during his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan Monday.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The Israeli premier similarly expressed his desire for a tougher stance vis-a-vis Iran in a bid to frustrate its ambitions to produce a nuclear weapon.

In what was their third meeting of the year, Netanyahu mentioned his aim at abandoning the current deal with Iran. One of the most vociferous opponents of the deal, which was signed under Barack Obamas leadership, Netanyahu has in the past delineated what he believes should be the West's clear red lines on the issue.

Trump and Netanyahu meet (: ) X "I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly called is the terrible nuclear deal with Iran and how to roll back Iran's growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria," Netanyahu told Trump.

Recently, Netanyahu has also expressed grave concern at Tehrans attempts to spread its influence throughout the Middle East, and particularly to Syria and along Israel's northern border.

Netanyahu also noted Israel was seeking peace with the Palestinians and the Arab world in general, a goal that is encouraged by the US. Trump is also to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas later this week.

"As you said, we will discuss the way we can seize the opportunity for peace between Israel and the Palestinians and between Israel and the Arab world, I think these things go together and we look forward to talking about how we can advance both," added Netanyahu.

Trump agreed with him, saying that they "are giving it an absolute go," and that "we're working very hard" to reach a deal between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

Trump and Netanyahu upon their meeting (Photo: Reuters)

Trump has described peace between Israelis and Palestinians as "the ultimate deal."

"Peace between the Palestinians and Israel would be a fantastic achievement, and we are giving it an absolute go. I think there's a good chance that it could happen. Most people would say 'there's no chance whatsoever," Trump said. "I think Israel would like to see it. I think the Palestinians would like to see it. I can tell you the Trump administration would like to see it. So we're working very hard on it. We'll see what happens. Historically, people say it can't happen. I say it can happen."

Netanyahu stressed that Israel's alliance with the United States is stronger than ever under the Trump administration.

"Under your leadership, the alliance between America and Israel has never been stronger, never been deeper. I can say this in ways in people see and in ways that they don't see. So I want to thank you for that."

Netanyahu added that as Wedensday is to be the Jewish New Year, "I want to wish you, the Jewish community of America, Jews everywhere, people everywhere, Shana Tova, Happy Healthy New Year. Thank you, Mr. President."

Trump, who throughout his campaign trail declared his intentions to rip up the US-led deal with Iran, has until October 15 to make a decision on whether to continue on the current path, requiring that he sign a document attesting to Irans acquiescence with the agreement, or steer a different course.

Netanyahu and his advisory delegation ahead of his meeting with President Trump (Photo: Avi Ohayon)

On Monday, Trump warned that Washington will walk away from a nuclear deal if it deems that the International Atomic Energy Agency is not tough enough in monitoring it.

US national security adviser H.R. McMaster said the conversations would be wide-ranging, but that "Iran's destabilizing behavior" would be a major focus of Trump's dseparate discussions with Netanyahu and French President Emmanuel Macron.

"We will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal," US Energy Secretary Rick Perry told the IAEA General Conference, an annual meeting of the agency's member states that began on Monday.

He did not say whether he thought the deal was currently weakly enforced.

"The United States ... strongly encourages the IAEA to exercise its full authorities to verify Iran's adherence to each and every nuclear-related commitment under the JCPOA," Perry added, referring to the deal by its official namethe Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Jerusalem however, is hopeful that the president will augment the agreement with a series of clauses designed to bolster scrutiny against Iran.

I am sure he will call for reforms, said UN Ambassador Danny Danon on Sunday.From our point of view, the deal is a bad one. We have always said that. It is still a bad deal and leaving the status quo is not possible.

On Tuesday, Netanyahu will ascend the podium in the UN General Assembly and address world leaders at 1pm EST (8pm Israel time) where he is also expected to focus, as he did in the last few years, on Iran.

Photo: AP

In preparation for his UN address, Netanyahu and his advisory team are considering a number of gimmicks he could employ in an effort to ensure that his speech makes international headlines.

Last year, Netanyahu rebuked the international community for its apparent silence on Irans genocidal rhetoric against the Jewish state.

Seventy years after the murder of 6 million Jews Irans rulers promise to destroy my country, murder my people and the response from this body  has been absolutely nothing. Utter silence. Deafening silence,Netanyahu stated emphatically before staring at the the leaders in the hall during a 45-second silent pause.
An Egyptian court on Monday acquitted Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa and his three sisters of charges including murder in a mass trial that has been going on for over four years, during which he was in jail.

Halawa was part of a trial in which nearly 500 people were charged with, among other crimes, breaking into a mosque, killing 44 people, including a policeman, and illegal possession of firearms in violence that followed the military's ouster of former Islamist president Mohamed Mursi in 2013.
By PTI: Rohingya refugees illegal, pose security threat: Centre to SC

(Eds: With additional inputs)

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) The Centre today told the Supreme Court that Rohingya Muslims are "illegal" immigrants in the country and their continued (rpt continued) stay posed "serious national security ramifications".

The Centres affidavit, filed in the apex court Registry, said the fundamental right to reside and settle in any part of the country is available to citizens only and illegal refugees cannot invoke the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to enforce the right.

advertisement

Earlier during the day, a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra considered the statement of ASG Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, that the reply would be filed later today and fixed the PIL challenging the deportation of Rohingyas for hearing on October 3.

"As evident from the constitutional guarantee flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution, the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India as well as right to move freely throughout the territory of India is available only to the citizens of India... No illegal immigrant can pray for a writ of this Court which directly or indirectly confer the fundamental rights in general...," the affidavit filed by the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The Centre said the Rohingya refugees were illegals and their continuous stay pose a grave security threat.

"It is submitted that continuance of Rohingyas illegal immigration into India and their continued stay in India, apart from being absolutely illegal, is found to be having serious national security ramifications and has serious security threats," it said.

The government said it may file in sealed cover the details of the security threats and inputs gathered by the various security agencies in this matter.

The Centre said that since India is not a signatory to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, the obligations concerned to non-refoulement is not applicable.

"That the provisions of Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951 and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1967 cannot be relied upon by the petitioner since India is not a signatory of either of them. It is respectfully submitted that the obligation concerning the prohibition of return/non-refoulement is a codified provision under the provisions of 1951 Convention referred to above.

"It is submitted that this obligation is binding only in respect of the States which are parties to the Convention. Since India is not a party to the said Convention, or the said Protocol, the obligations contained therein are not applicable to India," it said.

advertisement

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, did not issue notice to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which is already seized of the matter and had on August 18 issued notice to the Centre.

The plea, filed by two Rohingya immigrants, Mohammad Salimullah and Mohammad Shaqir, who are registered refugees under the United Nations High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR), claimed they had taken refuge in India after escaping from Myanmar due to widespread discrimination, violence and bloodshed against the community there.

The violent attacks allegedly by Myanmarese armymen have led to an exodus of Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine state in that country to India and Bangladesh. Many of those who had fled to India after the earlier spate of violence, were settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan.

The plea said that India has ratified and is a signatory to various conventions that recognise the Principle of "Non- Refoulement, which prohibits deportation of refugees to a country where they may face threat to their lives.

The government has recently raised "serious concern" over reports of renewed violence and attacks in Myanmar and extended its "strong" support to the Myanmarese government at this "challenging moment". PTI SJK ABA RRT ARC

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
Three young Palestinians, aged 15-16, were indicted at the Ofer military tribunal for throwing charges, Molotov cocktails and stones at security forces operating in the Rachel's Tomb complex.

They were arrested following a covert investigation by the police and border police. The three were remanded into custody until the trial's conclusion.
NEW YORK  France on Monday gave a staunch defense of the Iran nuclear deal, suggesting there could be talks to strengthen the pact for the post-2025 period but that allowing it to collapse could lead Iran's neighbors to seek atomic weapons.

"It is essential to maintain it to avoid proliferation. In this period when we see the risks with North Korea, we must maintain this line," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters.

"France will try to convince President Trump of the pertinence of this choice (keeping the accord) even if work can be done to complement the accord (after 2025)," he said.
ISTANBUL  Thirty journalists and newspaper executives from a Turkish newspaper which was shut down last year went on trial on Monday, facing life sentences over charges that they had links to a failed coup attempt.

The former employees of the Zaman newspaper are charged with "membership of an armed terror organization" and "attempting to overthrow" the government, parliament and the constitutional order through their links to cleric Fethullah Gulen.

Zaman was affiliated with Gulen, the US-based cleric and former ally of President Tayyip Erdogan. Gulen is blamed by Ankara for instigating the failed July 2016 coup, but denies any involvement.
An envelope with a suspicious white substance and a threatening letter were received at Israel's New York City consulate.

The incident triggered emergency protocols and the building was shut down.

Employees are awaiting the arrival of an NYPD bomb disposal technician to examine the envelope.

Two days ago a similar envelope was received along with a letter threatening the life of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. After the envelope was screened and found to pose no danger, the building was reopened.
This has been a long time in the making, but in our continuing pursuit to bring only the best of firearms, 2nd Amendment and defence related news to our readers, we are very excited to announce the next step in our evolution as a company.

As of 2020, Minuteman Review is now the proud owner and operator of Your Defence News, a website with a long history of breaking huge news stories and investigative journalism.

We hope you are equally as excited as us.

This means that now the teams of Minuteman can combine with the firepower of Your Defence News to stay at the absolute forefront for our readers.

Keep an eye. Big things are coming soon. We couldn't be more excited.

In the meanwhile, here are some of our most popular posts and categories to keep you busy.

Happy shootin' my friends!

Buying Guides:

Firearms

Firearm Accessories

Ammunition

Gun Safes

Scopes & Optics

Hunting

Air Rifles

Best AR-15

Best AR 15 Scope

Best Hunting Rifle

Best Gun Safe

Best AK 47

Best AR 10

Best Glock Triggers

Best Glock

Best Home Defense Shotgun
By PTI: Jaipur, Sep 18 (PTI) RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat today reached out to tribal leaders in Rajasthan, assuring them all help to address the grievances of their communities, and stressed on providing "education which promotes self-respect".

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief interacted with a dozen leaders of various nomadic tribes who raised issues such as difficulties faced by the community members in getting identity cards, ration cards and aadhaar cards.

advertisement

Bhagwat assured them that Sangh volunteers will now more actively work with them to ensure that they do not face these problems.

On the need to promote education among tribal communities, he said, "We need to ensure education which promotes a feeling of self-respect for overall progress of the country."

Bhagwat said that the Sangh through various Hindu organisations is moving ahead by taking all sections of the society along for the overall progress of the nation. PTI AG RT

--- ENDS ---
As a homeowner, you probably already know that you should be working to maintain your home. But, chances are, you Read More
News

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "On behalf of the Government of the United States, we offer our congratulations to the people of Guatemala on the celebration of 196 years of independence.

"As we affirmed at the June 15-16 Conference on Prosperity and Security in Central America, the United States is committed to strengthening democratic institutions, bolstering security, and achieving greater prosperity for all Guatemalans. We remain committed to working together with Guatemala to advance these mutual priorities.

"The United States of America extends its very best wishes on this proud day for the people of Guatemala."
Latest News

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "The Government of the United States joins me in sending best wishes as the people of Nicaragua mark the occasion of your 196th anniversary of independence September 15.

"The United States stands with the people of Nicaragua, from Bluefields to Chinandega, from Madriz to Rivas, and all the towns and communities in between, as you work towards a more democratic nation defined by prosperity and security.

"We wish Nicaragua a happy Independence Day celebration."
Latest News

Washington, DC - Today the Federal Trade Commission announced that the agency is streamlining requirements under the Fur, Textile and Wool Labeling Rules as part of Acting Chairman Maureen K. Ohlhausens regulatory reform agenda.

The FTC is updating the Fur, Textile and Wool Rules to implement web-based electronic filings of requests to obtain, update, or cancel registered identification numbers (RN) used on fur, textile and wool product labels. Use of the web-based RN system will streamline the application process for participating businesses and greatly increase the agencys efficiency in delivering RN services to the public.

The FTCs site at RN.FTC.GOV has been updated to allow real-time data validation for applicants and alert them to possible errors to avoid unnecessary delays. Industry members with RN numbers should visit RN.FTC.GOV to verify that their information is accurate. There are currently more than 140,000 entries in the system.

Under the current rules, most clothing and textile and fur products must have a label that identifies the manufacturer or other business responsible for marketing or handling the item. The updated RN system makes it easier for companies to obtain an RN and avoid having to put long company names on labels.

The Commission voted to approve the Federal Register Notice announcing final amendments to the Textile, Wool, and Fur Rules was 2-0. (FTC File No. P074201; the staff contact is Josh Millard, Bureau of Consumer Protection, 202-326-2454).
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - The Yuma Main Library, in collaboration with AARP, will host Social Security & Medicare on Saturday, September 30th, at 10:00 a.m. There is no charge to attend.

Karl Koenig, a trained volunteer with Arizonas Community Educators Program, coordinated through the Arizona AARP State Office, will discuss the following topics:

How and when to start my retirement benefits

Other benefits offered by Social Security

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

How Parts A, B, and D work with each Medicare option

Changes for 2017

The Main Library is located at 2951 S 21st Drive. For more information, call (928) 782-1871.
Gurgaon District Collector announced that the school will remain shut till Friday and that classes will resume from September 25.

By India Today Web Desk: Ryan International School, Gurgoan, continues to be embroiled in controversy ever since the seven-year-old student Pradyuman Thakur was found brutally murdered in the school campus.

While earlier, father of Thakur said that the school should remain closed till CBI probe is completed fearing tampering of evidence, towards the evening today, Gurgaon District Collector announced that the school will remain shut till Friday and that classes will resume from September 25.

advertisement

Here are the top developments of the day: Main accused in the Pradyuman murder case, conductor Ashok, Ryan International Group's Northern zone head and HR have been sent to judicial custody till September 29. In yet another setback to Ryan International School, the Supreme Court today dismissed the plea of the regional director to transfer the murder case from Haryana to Delhi. The petition was presented by Justice Mukul Rohatgi for Ryan school. Meanwhile, the main accused in the murder of the minor student, Ashok, alleged that he was assaulted in police custody. Ashok's lawyer said that the accused was dragged into the case by the school and that the institution is trying to frame him. The twin anticipatory bail for both Ryan Pinto and Grace Pinto will be heard at the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday. Incidentally, the stay on the arrest of the duo was till 5 pm last Friday. Earlier today, Gurgaon court pulled up ACP of Gurgaon for submitting incomplete documents regarding the case. The lawyers alleged that Francis and Jeyes Thomas (school management staff) moved a bail application in the court, since one of section of POCSO was a bailable offense. However, the staff defended themselves in the court saying their work was only pertaining to documentation of school work and had nothing to do with the murder. Incidentally, parents of students held a meeting with the district collector at the school today. They said that the administration was not taking any responsibility for the safety of kids.

--- ENDS ---
Kano: At least 15 people were killed on Monday when suicide bombers attacked an aid distribution point in northeast Nigeria, in the latest suspected strike by Boko Haram insurgents against civilians.

The blasts occurred in the Konduga area, about 40 kilometres from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri, both of which have been repeatedly targeted by the jihadist group.

On August 16, at least 28 people were killed and more than 80 injured when three female suicide bombers detonated their explosives outside a camp for displaced persons in Konduga.

A rescue worker said the first blast on Monday happened at 11:10 am in the village of Mashalari. "(It) killed 15 people and left 43 others injured," he told AFP.

"It happened during aid distribution by an NGO, when people had gathered to receive donations," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Twelve minutes later, another bomber struck, but luckily only she died."

The rescue worker said both bombers were women but did not specify which NGO was distributing aid.

Northeast Nigeria is in the grip of a humanitarian crisis caused by the Islamist Boko Haram insurgency, which has left at least 20,000 people dead and displaced more than 2.6 million since 2009.

The violence has devastated farming, leading to chronic food shortages and leaving hundreds of thousands of people on the brink of starvation and dependent on aid agencies for help.

Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force, a militia assisting the military with security against Boko Haram, confirmed the rescue worker's account.

"We have dispatched out the team to the scene," he said.

Nigeria's military and government maintain that Boko Haram is a spent force as a result of a sustained counter- insurgency campaign over the last two years.

But continued attacks, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas of Borno, suggest claims of outright victory are premature.

This month, jihadists fired a rocket-propelled grenade into a camp for the internally displaced near the border with Cameroon, killing seven.

Amnesty International says Boko Haram attacks since April have killed nearly 400 people in Nigeria and Cameroon -- double the figure of the previous five months.

The UN children's fund said last month that 83 children had been used as suicide bombers this year, four times as many as in all of 2016.
Guadeloupe: Hurricane Maria barrelled towards the storm-battered eastern Caribbean and was expected to strengthen on Monday as it churned along a path similar to that of megastorm Irma earlier in the month.

The new storm, which the US National Hurricane Center warned could become a "major hurricane", threatens the French territory of Guadeloupe, which was the staging area for relief operations for several islands hit by Irma.

Guadeloupe was to go on "red alert" Monday with schools, businesses and government offices ordered closed.

Warnings were also triggered for Dominica, St Kitts, Nevis, the British island of Montserrat and France`s Martinique.

French Interior Minister Gerard Collomb warned in Paris on Sunday that "we will have major difficulties" if Guadeloupe is hard hit, noting that the territory "was the logistical centre from where we could supply Saint Martin and organise all the air bridges."

Fifteen people died from Irma on Saint Martin, an island shared by France and the Netherlands.

Officials in Guadeloupe predicted severe flooding in low-lying areas and urged people living there to move to higher ground.

France, Britain and the Netherlands have been criticised for the pace of relief efforts and failure to contain lawlessness in their overseas territories amid widespread shortages of food, water and electricity after Irma.But in the Guadeloupe capital Pointe-a-Pitre, local official Josette Borel-Lincertain said authorities had ample experience preparing for hurricanes.

"We have a culture of risk, we know what needs to be done," she said.

Collomb said an additional 110 soldiers would be deployed to the region to reinforce some 3,000 people already at work tackling security problems, rebuilding infrastructure and supplying food and water to hurricane-hit islanders.

He said up to 500 more people could be sent if needed.

The Category Five Irma left around 40 people dead in the Caribbean before churning west and pounding Florida, where at least 20 people were killed.

As of 0600 GMT, Maria was a Category One hurricane, the lowest on the five point Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum sustained winds of 90 miles per hour (150 kph) winds.

The storm was about 145 kilometres (90 miles) northeast of Barbados and moving at 13 mph (20 kph), the NHC said.

Martinique was placed on "orange alert" from Monday with high seas and heavy rain expected to cause flooding. Schools and universities will be closed, authorities said.

Tropical storm warnings were in place in Antigua and Barbuda, Saba and St Eustatius, and St Lucia. The tiny island of Barbuda was decimated by Hurricane Irma September 5-6 when it made its first landfall in the Caribbean as a top intensity Category Five storm.

The NHC said Maria could produce a "dangerous storm surge accompanied by large and destructive waves" that will raise water levels by four to six feet (1.2 to 1.8 metres) when it passes through the eastern Caribbean.

It also forecast a maximum potential rainfall of 20 inches (51 centimetres) in the Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and the US and British Virgin Islands through Wednesday night -- conditions that could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

A second hurricane, Jose, is also currently active in the Atlantic and has triggered tropical storm watches for the northeastern United States.

Hurricane Irma broke weather records when it sustained winds of 295 kilometres per hour (183 miles per hour) for more than 33 hours.

Many scientists are convinced that megastorms such as Irma and Harvey before it are intensified by the greater energy they can draw from oceans that are warming as a result of global climate change.
Lahore: Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawa will contest the 2018 General Elections in Pakistan, according to a senior member of the outfit.

Sheikh Yaqoob said the new front "will field candidates in every constituency in the country in next year's election."

"We are here to stay in the political field. People want a party that talks about making Pakistan strong against its enemies India, the United States and Israel and at the same time help them in solving their basic livelihood problems," he said, as per PTI.

Last month, the JuD had had formed the Milli Muslim League at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. The Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to register it as a political party.

On January 30, Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore under the anti-terrorism act.

At that time, the league president Saifullah Khalid had said, "We have decided to make a new political party, so that Pakistan is to made a real Islamic and welfare state," Reuters had reported.

Saeed is a wanted terrorist by India and the US for his alleged role in masterminding the 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai that claimed 166 lives.

He even carries a bounty of 10 million USD (approx Rs 66 crore) on his head for his role in the attack.

JuD is a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group.

(With Agency inputs)
Islamabad: The Pakistan Foreign Minister will upbraid the US for its new Afghanistan policy at the UN General Assembly next week, saying the Trump administration is following a militaristic approach that has already failed.



Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told the Wall Street Journal that he could not understand how the American military could succeed now in Afghanistan when it had not during the "surge" under the Barack Obama administration with a force eight times as large as the one now planned.



He instead called for peace talks with the Taliban, which could be arranged if Washington worked with countries in the region that have influence over the group.



"They are pursuing a folly, a strategy that has already failed," Asif told the American paper. "Force will not solve any problem, it has not solved problems in the past," Asif said.



Pakistan's cooperation is vital to the effort to stabilise neighbouring Afghanistan and extricating America from its longest war. The US and Pakistan are ostensible allies, but have long suffered strained ties.



Relations turned more confrontational after President Donald Trump accused Pakistan in August of providing a haven for terrorists and then threatening to withhold aid if there was not better cooperation.



Trump had said that a political settlement with elements of the Taliban is "perhaps" possible, but only after an effective US military campaign.



Asif subsequently cancelled a trip to the US for talks with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Islamabad also rejected a planned visit to Pakistan by the senior US official for the Pakistan-Afghanistan region, Alice Wells.



Asif toured the region, visiting US adversaries in China, Iran and Turkey, saying afterward that they agreed that a political solution was needed. Asif said he would meet at the UN his Russian counterpart to get Moscow on board with this plan.



"I think Americans should be more realistic and more pragmatic about their approach in Afghanistan," said Asif. "They have already lost more than 40 per cent of territory to the Taliban. How do you keep on fighting with them?"


New Delhi: Worried over a surge in gold imports from Indonesia that crossed 600 kg in the last two months, the government is considering ways to check the increase in the in-bound shipments, a government official said.

A decision to this effect is expected this week only, the official added.

The government has recently imposed restrictions on imports of the precious metal from South Korea on account of jump in gold imports from that country.

Because of this, the official said, the in-bound shipments are now increasing from Indonesia.

The imports in the case of Indonesia are different from those of Korea as the gold coming from the South-east Asian island nation is mostly mined gold whereas from South Korea, it was originating in some other country and was being routed through Korea for value addition prior to exports.

"Over 600 kg of gold came in from Indonesia in the last two months. We are looking into it and a decision is likely by the end of the week," the official said.

Importers have been taking advantage of the free trade agreement between India and the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean) with which a free trade agreement is in place since 2009. Under this pact, the basic Customs duty on gold is nil.

Indonesia is a member of the 10-nation Asean group.

Following the rollout of Good and Services Tax (GST), a 3 per cent Integrated GST (IGST) is being levied on gold imports. This compares to the earlier 12.5 per cent countervailing duty imposed prior to July 1, thereby making imports cheaper.

Officials from Customs, Commerce and the Reserve Bank would meet this week to decide on what could be the possible way to deal with this import surge.
Chennai: In a major blow to ousted AIADMK deputy general secretary TTV Dhinakaran, the Speaker of Tamil Nadu's State Assembly, P Dhanapal, on Monday disqualified 18 MLAs loyal to him.

Confirming the development, ANI also published the names of AIADMK MLAs against whom action was taken by the Assembly Speaker.

18 MLAs backing TTV Dhinakaran disqualified by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal. pic.twitter.com/pJedJ3aOWK  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

Thanga Tamilselvan, Senthil Balaji, P Vetrivel and K Mariappan are among those who have been disqualified.

18 MLAs backing TTV Dhinakaran stand disqualified with effect from today, under 1986 Tamil Nadu Assembly Members party defection law., the Speaker said in his order.

The rebel MLAs, loyal to Dhinakaran, had been demanding the removal of EK Palaniswami as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Dhinakaran had earlier moved the Madras High Court amid apprehensions about possible disqualification of the ruling AIADMK MLAs backing him by the Speaker.

The Madras High Court had then ordered that no floor test be conducted in State Assembly till September 20.

Dhinakaran had last week warned that he will throw the incumbent K Palaniswami-led government in Tamil Nadu after the ruling AIADMK General Council removed him and his aunt VK Sasikala from top positions in the party.

''Most of the ministers are scared that they will lose elections and that's why they are accusing us of conniving with the DMK,'' TTV Dhinakaran said while reacting to the developments.

TTV Dinakaran also challenged his rivals to hold fresh elections if they felt that they enjoyed popular support.

''You (EPS-OPS) claim that you have support of party workers, so if you have guts let us face fresh elections,'' TTV Dhinkaran said on the crucial AIADMK meet.

''Now, I will ensure that this government (Tamil Nadu) is thrown out of power,'' Dhinkaran warned, toughening his stand on the move to curtail his powers by the two united factions of the ruling party.

The reactions from Dhinakaran came shortly after the AIADMK cancelled the appointment of jailed VK Sasikala as party General Secretary.

Dinakaran's appointment as Deputy General Secretary of AIADMK also stands cancelled, said RB Udaykumar, a senior party leader.

The decision was announced at the AIADMK party's general council meet held today.

Sasikala was appointed as General Secretary last December following the death of party supremo and Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

Sasikala had appointed Dhinakaran as Deputy General Secretary before going to jail.

Importantly, the AIADMK general council also declared late J Jayalaithaa as the party's ''eternal general secretary''.

The general council also resolved to restore all those who were party office bearers appointed by Jayalalithaa. They will continue to hold office now, it said.

The council also nullified the decisions taken by Dhinakaran.

The council also ratified the recent merger of the two factions led by Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam.
As Gujarat goes to polls later this year, the Congress turned to the social media hoping to garner some credit for the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers to Narmada River during the inauguration of Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadiya in Narmada district on Sunday. (Photo: PTI)

By Kumar Shakti Shekhar: The Congress is on the offensive over Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicating the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the nation yesterday when he turned 67. The principal opposition party criticised the BJP government yesterday itself, and today it posted a Twitter quiz on Sarovar Sarovar Dam hoping to garner some support.

However, the Congress was heavily trolled over Sardar Sarovar Dam.

advertisement

Often described as "Gujarat's lifeline", the Sardar Sarovar Dam took 56 years to build. It is well-known that the foundation stone of the project was laid by India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961.

Prime Minister Modi said the Sardar Sarovar Dam will benefit lakhs of farmers and help fulfil people's aspirations.

But the Congress accused the BJP for using the Narmada Dam Project as a poll gimmick. As Gujarat goes to polls later this year, the Congress turned to the social media hoping to garner some credit for the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

CONGRESS' QUIZ

It asked the obvious question about the prime minister who had laid the foundation stone of the Sardar Sarovar Dam with the hashtag 'Know your legacy'. As options, it gave the names of former prime ministers IK Gujral, Jawaharlal Nehru, AB Vajpayee and Indira Gandhi.

Which Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Sardar Sarovar Dam project? #KnowYourLegacy&; Congress (@INCIndia) September 18, 2017

The twitterati seemed to be more interested in trolling the Congress instead of giving an answer. They blamed the Congress for the delay in the implementation of the project and accused it of trying to take the credit.

In counter to the Congress' quiz, some posed counter quiz to put the party on the defensive.

Which Govt.fails to inaugurate Sardar Sarovar Dam project even though rule 60 years in Democracy- Ankita Chaurasia???? (@Ankita84sia) September 18, 2017

Which Prime Minister delayed the Sardar Sarovar Dam project? #KnowYourLegacy&; Chch Chdhry? (@VChaudhary_in) September 18, 2017

When did construction start&; nithean (@nitheankumaar7) September 18, 2017

Some others held the Congress responsible for the inordinate delay in the implementation of the ambitious project.

The real question is it took 56 years to complete a dam. Is congress presenting a picture of its inefficiency. ?? @OfficeOfRG&; Amit Gupta (@amitgupta2016) September 18, 2017

First Cong PM of India laid the Stone . But ... Even the Last Cong PM was not able to inaugurate the damPls Don't Cry Now ..Ur time over&; Sreenivas R Kartha (@kartha123) September 18, 2017

It's a symbol of your inefficiency . Took it 59 years and Modi rule to be built. Doesn't matter who laid the stone.&; Dr. Aayush Jha (@AyushjhaJha) September 18, 2017

The question should be who brought Sardar Sarovar Dam to fruition.It is Modi.It is action that counts,not mere paperwork.&; Rk malhotra (@Rkmalhotra12) September 18, 2017

advertisement

Going a step further, some sought to give credit to India's first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who hailed from Gujarat, for the project. They highlighted the fact that Sardar Patel had conceived the project.

Which leader conceived the idea Sardar Sarovar Yojna before Nehru? Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.&; Jayesh Shah (@JayeshVardhman) September 18, 2017

On Prime Minister Modi's yesterday, Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari had kicked up a controversy by posting an abusive tweet. The Congress was attacked even today by way of replies to this quiz.

Iska jawab do phir Poll Karo pic.twitter.com/KQIBVXWgef&; Sanju (@Pune16Sanjay) September 18, 2017

Rahul Gandhi along withManish Tewari & Digvijay Singh#KnowYourLegacy&; Piyush Singh ???? (@singhpiyush_) September 18, 2017

Someone sought to remind the Congress of the work being bone by the AAP government in Delhi led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and asked it to learn from them.

Congress should learn from AAP specially on education ,electricity and health . All education & Health mafias were created by congress

ATTACK ON BJP

advertisement

The Congress has lashed out at the BJP over the Narmada Dam project. It sought to point out the shortcomings in the project.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala accused Prime Minister Modi of indulging in "misconceived electoral hype, hyperbole and hoopla by yet again inaugurating the Sardar Sarovar Dam". He alleged that the BJP was using the world's second largest dam built by the painstaking efforts of the Congress party and people of Gujarat as an electoral gimmick.

Surjewala said except the Narma Dam project, rest of the 'Gujarat Model' was ingrained with "fakery, doublespeak, fallaciousness and falsehood". The BJP is ruling Gujarat since the past 22 years and not even 20 per cent of the canal network, creating minors and sub-minors, has been completed, he said.

The Congress spokesperson gave credit for the Sardar Sarovar Dam to Pt Nehru and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. "From the laying of the foundation stone by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961 up till 1987, when its construction work was stalled for environmental reasons and litigations, there were a multitude of insurmountable road blocks. It was under the leadership of the then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi that each blockade was cleared conscientiously and 90 per cent of the work was approved for completion.

advertisement

VYING FOR CREDIT

An advance peek is available into the forthcoming Gujarat Assembly elections. Sardar Sarovar Dam will be a major plank in the state polls. Moreover, both the BJP and the Congress will compete to take credit for it.

The BJP will also project the ground breaking ceremony of bullet train as one of its major achievements. This Assembly election would be fought for the first time after Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, both hailing from Gujarat, taking over as prime minister and BJP president respectively.

The Congress would seek to prick holes in the BJP's claims of undertaking development in the state. It has already fired a salvo by launching a campaign with the Gujarati slogan 'Bhajapno vikas gando thayo chhey' (BJP's development has gone crazy).

The main opposition party would counter all claims of the BJP in the run up to the elections. The choice would be up to the voters whether to trust the BJP or the Congress.

ALSO WATCH | On his birthday, Narendra Modi dedicates the Sardar Sarovar Dam to the nation

--- ENDS ---
New Delhi: The formal sector employers will be required to intimate about the details of their new employees online to retirement fund body EPFO from October 1, 2017, an EPFO official said on Monday.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has decided to do away with filing of Form-9, a declaration by a person (employee) taking up employment in an establishment in which Employees' Pension Scheme is in force, a senior official said.

This Form-9 is filed by the formal sector employers manually at present to intimate about their new employees.

The body has taken this step in the wake of rapid computerisation in EPFO as an initiative towards Electronic Paper Free Organisation.

The official said that since employee master (roll) is available in the system containing all relevant details of the employee like name, gender, DOB, DOJ, father's/spouse's name as well as Aadhar & bank details fetched through electronic challan (PF return), submission of Form-9 in physical form by the employer can be discontinued.

He opined that this would boost e-governance for fully electronic settlement of claims and also facilitate the employers in ease of doing business by reducing their paper work.

The body has planned to provide all service online and go paperless by August next year.
New Delhi: The CBI on Monday claimed in the Supreme Court that it has more material to substantiate its charges against Karti Chidambaram, son of former Union Minister P Chidambaram, in a graft case.

During the brief hearing in the case which took place twice during the day before a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, the CBI said it was ready with a sealed envelope containing the documents to buttress its probe done so far.

However, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Karti, said that the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, should not take on record the documents without the agency filing an affidavit in this regard.

The bench adjourned the matter for final hearing on September 22 on the appeal of the CBI challenging the Madras High Court order staying government's look out circular against Karti Chidambaram.

The FIR lodged by the CBI on May 15 had alleged irregularities in Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Karti's father was the Finance Minister.

Sibal alleged that the CBI has been seeking adjournments in the case and a person cannot be interrogated in this manner.

Earlier, he had alleged that all baseless allegations have been levelled against Karti and had challenged the CBI to bring out the details of any property which the Chidambarams cannot account for.

Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the CBI, had vehemently countered the submission and said the probe was at a very crucial stage and substantial information have been given to the court in a sealed cover.

On September 1, the CBI had told the apex court that there were "good, cogent" reasons for issuing look out circular against Karti.

On August 18, the court had asked Karti to appear before the investigating officer at the CBI headquarters here for questioning in the case.

The bench had given the probe agency the liberty to question Karti as many times it wanted.

Before this, the apex court had said that Karti would not be allowed to leave India without subjecting himself to investigation in the case. The court had then stayed the Madras High Court order putting on hold the LOC issued by the Centre against Karti.

The CBI had claimed that the FDI proposal of the media house, cleared by Chidambaram, was "fallacious".

The FIR was registered on May 15 before the special CBI judge here and the registration of the case was followed by searches at the residences and offices of Karti and his friends on May 16.
New Delhi: Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday again warned of demonetisation and "hasty" implementation of GST adversely impacting GDP growth.

Singh, who had previously cautioned against note ban shaving off 2 percent of GDP, said demonetisation of 86 per cent of the currency in circulation and the hasty implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have impacted informal and small scale sectors, which account of about 40 percent of the USD 2.5-trillion economy.

"Both demonetisation and the GST have had some impact (on GDP growth)," he said. "Both would affect the informal sector, the small scale sector... The sectors today are responsible for 40 percent of GDP."

Ninety per cent of India's employment is in the informal sector, he told CNBC-TV 18.

"And the withdrawal of 86 per cent of currency plus also GST, because it has been put on practice in haste, there are lots of glitches which are now coming out. These are bound to affect the GDP growth adversely," he remarked.

On November 25 last year, some two weeks after old 500 and 1,000 rupee notes were junked, Singh had in his Parliament speech termed demonetisation a "monumental mismanagement", "organised loot" and "legalised plunder" which would cause GDP growth to fall by 2 per cent.

GDP growth in the first quarter of current fiscal slumped to a three-year low of 5.7 percent, down from 7.9 percent in April-June quarter of 2016. In January-March quarter, the growth declined to 6.1 percent from 8 percent in the year- ago quarter.

The government had blamed de-stocking ahead of the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from July 1 as the primary reason for the fall in the GDP growth rate.

GST unified more than a dozen central and state levies like excise duty, service tax and VAT, but its implementation has seen technical glitches with the registration and tax filing portal, forcing the government to postpone return deadlines.

In April, when the supporting GST bill was passed in Parliament, the former prime minister had hailed it as a "game-changer" while cautioning against the difficulties in its implementation.

On August 30, the Reserve Bank of India said nearly 99 percent of the Rs 15.44 lakh crore junked currency had returned to the banking system, raising questions on the efficacy of the government's note ban decision that was aimed at curbing corruption and black money.
New Delhi: In India, there are three policemen to protect one VIP (Very Important Person), and just one policeman to protect 663 common men.

This shocking police-to-population data was compiled by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), a home ministry division.

According to the data, there are almost 19.26 lakh police officers in the country.

Out of this, 56,944 are deployed for the safety of 20,828 VIPs across 29 states and six Union Territories. The average comes out to 2.73 cops for each VIP.

That leaves just 19 lakh cops to protect over 1 billion Indian citizens.

India is one of the least policed countries in the world, with just one policeman looking after every 663 Indians.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in April 2017, banned the use of red and blue beacons, in an effort to end VIP culture.

However, it seems, states have paid no heed to PM Modi's statement.

The data reveals, Bihar has the highest VIP protection, 3,200 VIPs protected by 6,248 cops. This is followed by West Bengal, with 4,233 cops guarding 2,207 VIPs and Jammu and Kashmir which has 2,075 VIPs getting security from 4,499 policemen. In Uttar Pradesh, 4,681 cops are guarding 1,901 VIPs, reported the TOI.

In Delhi, which is home the PM and President, there are just 489 protected persons but has the maximum number of cops, 7,420, deputed to secure them.

On the other hand, Maharashtra has just 74 protected persons secured by 961 cops, while Kerala has only 57 VIPs and 214 policemen.

Lakshadweep is the only state/UT where no one has been given dedicated police protection.
By PTI: bodys locksmiths

London, Sept 18 (PTI) A British scientist has received a 1.4 million pound fund to carry out pioneering research that could discover how cancer steals the keys from the bodys locksmiths, disrupting healthy cell growth and function.

Dr Mathew Coleman, of the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham, will receive 1.4 million pound over six years from Cancer Research UK to find out more about three specific proteins that are thought to have a role in cancer.

advertisement

The study by Colemans group, which focuses on gastrointestinal cancer but the findings would likely be applicable to a variety of other tumour types, will be conducted on both human tissue and cells donated by cancer patients.

The proteins in our body come in all shapes and sizes and play a range of roles, including controlling energy production, cell growth and cell function, Coleman said.

But if these proteins become faulty, it can affect how they work, causing them and cells to go out of control.

"We are interested in three particular proteins, which are all enzymes that act as locksmiths for other proteins. Usually, these enzymes, called oxygenases, work by attaching an oxygen molecule to specific parts of other proteins, which generally turns them on," he said.

This is like a locksmith putting a key in a lock once the door is opened, it unlocks processes in a cell that ensure it develops normally and that everything is properly controlled, he added.

The scientist said that these enzyme locksmiths become faulty in cancer, which means they are unable to attach oxygen molecules to other proteins properly. This means the door remains shut, and certain processes are locked out.

"We think that this can lead to abnormal cell growth and function, which can lead to cancer. Its as if cancer has stolen the keys from these locksmiths.

"What is amazing is that such a small thing not being able to place a key in a lock has the potential to have a domino effect that disrupts cell growth and function, causing cells to go awry and turn cancerous," the scientist said.

Colemans group will study both human tissue and cells donated by cancer patients who have generously given permission for their tumour samples to be used in research.

The hope is that by understanding how these oxygenases become faulty, and what goes wrong in cancer cells because they are not working properly, Coleman and his team may be able to find out how to regain control of wayward processes, leading to new targeted treatments for cancer patients.

advertisement

Every week, around 600 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UKs West Midlands region. PTI HSR SMJ AKJ SMJ

--- ENDS ---
New York: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday held a ministerial trilateral meeting with the United States Secretary of State, Rex W Tillerson, and Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Taro Kono.

In the meeting, the leaders of three nations exchanged views on maritime security, connectivity and proliferation issues.

They emphasised on the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.

They also discussed on connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally-recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined.

"The ministers emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a statement.

"On connectivity initiatives, the importance of basing them on universally recognised international norms, prudent financing and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity was underlined," he added.

Swaraj also deplored North Korea's recent actions and stated that its proliferation linkages must be explored and those involved be held accountable, Kumar said.

The meeting was held in the backdrop of Doklam crisis and assertive Chinese behaviour.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. However, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter-claims.

On the other hand, India and Beijing last month ended a 73-day standoff in Doklam area of the Sikkim sector that was triggered by China's move to build a road in the border area.

Swaraj is in New York to attend the 72nd annual session of the UN General Assembly. She is scheduled to address the United Nations on September 23.

She is scheduled to have a series of other meetings today including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted and chaired by US President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries which have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary-General.

The Ministers emphasized the need for ensuring freedom of navigation, respect for international law and peaceful resolution of disputes. pic.twitter.com/gC95NRajnT  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) September 18, 2017

On connectivity initiatives, imp. of basing them on universally recognized int'l norms, prudent financing & respect for sovereignty and ... pic.twitter.com/iVsAEwu4HT September 18, 2017

..and territorial integrity was underlined. Full Statement on meeting below pic.twitter.com/xon928IYW6  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) September 18, 2017

(With PTI inputs)
New Delhi: Marshal of the Air Force, Arjan Singh, who passed away at the Army's Research and Referral Hospital on Saturday, was laid to rest with full state honours at Delhi's Brar Square where his last rites were performed on Monday. As a mark of respect to the departed son of the 'Mother India', the national flag will fly at half-mast in all government buildings in Delhi. Arjan Singh, the hero of the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the only Air Force officer to be promoted to five-star rank, died at the age of 98.

-Indian Army pays tributes to the departed IAF legend Arjan Singh.

                         pic.twitter.com/VLLFCsebtF  ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) September 16, 2017

-Arjan Singh, Marshal of Indian Air Force, laid to rest with full state honours.

End of an Era- Last salute to the legend.  Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) September 18, 2017

-Fly past held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh at Delhi's Brar Square.

Fly past held, tributes being paid at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/fIYWf15TyM  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-17-gun salute for the late Marshal of Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh.

Gun salute & fly past held at last rites ceremony of Marshal of the Air Force #ArjanSingh at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/28xxEpOj4I  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force Arjan Singh continues at Delhi's Brar Square.

Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh continues at Delhi's Brar Square. pic.twitter.com/VwyRTdNHQb  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-Manmohan Singh, LK Advani, Defence Miniister Nirmala Sitharaman and three service chiefs at last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force Arjan Singh.

Manmohan Singh, LK Advani, Defence Min Nirmala Sitharaman & three service chiefs at last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh pic.twitter.com/drHqelvomW  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-Former PM Manmohan Singh lays wreath and homage to MIAF Arjan Singh, at his last rites ceremony.

Delhi: Former PM Manmohan Singh lays wreath & pays tributes to Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh, at his last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/3ey5OXvy7Y  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-IAF Chief BS Dhanoa and Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba pay homage to Marshal of Air Force Arjan Singh.

Delhi: IAF Chief BS Dhanoa & Chief of Naval staff Sunil Lanba pay tributes at Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh's last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/wx8EaWrWdG  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays wreath and pays tribute to Marshal of Air Force Arjan Singh at his last rites ceremony.

Delhi: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lays wreath & pays tributes to Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh, at his last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/BaF9lFotTJ  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-His last rites are being performed at the Brar Square.

Last rites ceremony of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh underway at Delhi's Brar Square pic.twitter.com/T9cv4msPkz  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-According to ANI, the wreath laying ceremony will take place at 9:00 am.

-Earlier, the mortal remains of Marshal of Indian Air Force Arjan Singh were taken to the Brar Square in a gun carriage for the last rites ceremony from his residence 7A Kautilya Marg.

Delhi: Mortal remains of Marshal of Air Force #ArjanSingh being taken to Brar Square in a gun carriage for the last rites ceremony. pic.twitter.com/R9vwSMJkpC  ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2017

-The National Flag will fly half-mast on account of the nation mourning the death.

-Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had on Sunday stated that along with a state funeral and an appropriate gun salute, a Flypast may take place, depending on the weather conditions, to honour the contribution of the Air Force Marshal.

-Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the residence of Arjan Singh to express his condolences to the family.

-The whole nation mourned the death of India's pride, who breathed his last on Saturday.

-He was admitted to Army's Research and Referral hospital on Saturday morning after he suffered a cardiac arrest, the Defence Ministry said.

-In praise of Arjan Singh, defence experts said that very few can equal him in stature and his contribution to the cause of the Defence force as well as the country.

Marshal Arjan Singh (1919-2017): First Officer To Lead IAF In Conflict

Former Indian Air Force chief Arjan Singh, who passed away on September 16 after a massive cardiac arrest, had spearheaded the India-Pakistan War in 1965, making him the first officer to lead the IAF in a conflict.

At the age of 44, Singh was appointed the Chief of Air Staff on August 1, 1964 and he held the post till July 15, 1969.

After his retirement, he served as India's envoy to Switzerland and Kenya. He was also appointed Lt. governor of Delhi. He became the Marshal of Air Force in January 2002.

In 2016, IAF renamed its Panagarh airbase in West Bengal after Marshal Arjan Singh.

Singh, a Padma Vibhushan awardee, was born on April 15, 1919 in the then Punjab town of Lyallpur.

After the death of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in 2008, he became the only living Indian military officer with a five-star rank. Singh came from a family of military officers.

His father had served as ADC to a division commander, while his grandfather was in the Guides Cavalry. According to wikipedia, his great-grandfather was among the first two generations of the Guides Cavalry enlisted in 1854.

Singh was educated from the RAF College in Cranwell in 1938 and was commissioned as a pilot in December 1939.

He had led the No. 1 Squadron of the IAF into combat during the Arakan Campaign in 1944. And the same year, he was awarded with the distinguished Flying Cross.

He was made the Air Chief Marshal from the rank of Chief of Air Staff in recognition of his contribution in the 1965 war.

He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1965 for distinguished service. He retired from service in 1970 at the age of 50.

After his retirement, he served as India's Ambassador to Switzerland and the Vatican. He was also appointed as the High Commissioner to Kenya in 1974. He also became the Lt. Governor of Delhi from Dec 1989 to Dec 1990.

With ANI inputs
New Delhi: Minister of Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi, Minister of Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar and CBSE officials will today hold a high-level meeting to develop a set of guidelines and protocols for schools to ensure the safety and security of students.

This comes in the wake of the gruesome killing of a seven-year-old boy at the Ryan International School in Gurugram.

Taking note of the seriousness of the incidents of child abuse in schools, both the ministry had called for a meeting on September 12.

Earlier, in a telephonic discussion, Maneka requested Javadekar to consider suggestions like having women employees as the support staff and bus drivers/conductors in the schools, screening of educational films on child sexual abuse in the schools, popularising POCSO e-Box and Childline 1098 through NCERT publications and having strict norms for employing the support staff.

Maneka had also given the suggestions in her letter to the HRD Minister.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has already started its outreach campaign for protection of children through electronic as well as social media.

Maneka stated that the basic objective of the meeting of the two ministries is to develop a set of guidelines and protocols which schools must follow so that the children remain protected from any kind of abuse or physical/mental harm.

She further stated that the parents, guardians and teachers should remain vigilant about the children as well as their behaviour and any suspected situation should be reported immediately on the Childline No.1098 and the POCSO e-Box.
New Delhi: As Ryan International School reopened its gates on Monday, Varun Chandra Thakur, the father of a seven-year-old Pradyuman Thakur, who was found dead inside the toilet of the premises, expressed disappointment, fearing the evidence might end up being tampered.

Talking to ANI, Thakur said,"Reopening of school without addressing security lapses poses threat to other children as well."

He further stated he doesn't want the school to reopen as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry hasn't started yet.

Earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday announced that the investigation of the brutal killing is being handed over to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

"Pradhuman's father on Sunday expressed the concern that the reopening of the school will erase all the evidence related to the case. This will also have direct consequences on the CBI's investigation," Thakur's lawyer Susheel Tekriwala told IANS.



"Due to this the school should remain close till the investigations are not completed," Tekriwala added.

On September 8, Pradhyuman Thakur was found dead with his throat slit in the washroom of the Ryan International school in the Bhondsi on the Sohna road. A bus driver, Ashok Kumar has been arrested in connection with the case.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) also constituted to look into the murder case, had pointed out serious security lapses in the school. The SIT averred that the school did not have any separate toilets for staff members like drivers and conductors while adding that the administration even did not get their employees identification verified.

On the other hand, the Supreme Court will today hear the petition ofNorthern Zone head of Ryan International Group Francis Thomas seeking transfer of case.

(With inputs from agencies)
New Delhi: Fear was palpable among some of the students at Ryan International School, as the premises opened on Monday, ten days after the brutal murder of seven-year-old Pradyuman Thakur.

Talking to Zee News, one of the traumatised classmates of Pradyuman Thakur narrated the horrific incident that took place on September 08 and said,"I am very scared. I saw Pradyuman's bag, bottle in blood."

Expressing concern for her younger brother, one of the students said,"More than myself, I fear for my younger brother; he goes to the washroom alone."

Meanwhile, an eighth standard student, while speaking to news agency ANI, said that he did not want to come back to school after hearing of the murder, but the government has promised to provide protection so he decided to attend his classes.

Reportedly parents were also reluctant to leave their children alone at the school. One of the parents said that she especially came to ensure the security status of the school before leaving her child.

Some parents also suggested that strict security measures must be taken by the school authorities so that such incident is not repeated.

"Background check of staff should be done thoroughly and only educated people should be recruited in schools," one of the parents told the news agency.

On the other hand, Pradyuman's father, Varun Thakur was disappointed with the school's decision to reopen its gates from today, as he feared that the evidence might be tampered with.

Talking to ANI, Thakur said,"Reopening of school without addressing security lapses poses threat to other children as well."

He further stated he doesn't want the school to reopen as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry hasn't started yet.

Earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday announced that the investigation of the brutal killing is being handed over to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

On September 8, Pradhyuman Thakur was found dead with his throat slit in the washroom of the Ryan International school in the Bhondsi on the Sohna road. A bus driver, Ashok Kumar has been arrested in connection with the case.

(With inputs from agencies)
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the members of the District Bar Association of Gurugram not to obstruct in any manner the proceedings going on before a special judge there relating to the murder of a seven-year-old student in the Ryan International school.

The apex court was informed by the bar body that they have withdrawn their earlier resolution in which they had said that no lawyer will represent any of the accused in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra observed that an accused has the right to be represented by an advocate and the bar was under an obligation not to obstruct any lawyer from appearing on behalf of an accused.

"We must say without any hesitation that any accused, whatever the offence maybe, has a right to be represented by an advocate. The tradition of bar does not authorise any bar association to pass a resolution like this.

"However, the solace is realising the fault. The bar association has withdrawn it (resolution)," the bench, also comprising Justice A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, said.

The bench was hearing a plea filed by Francis Thomas, the northern zone head of Ryan Group, seeking transfer of the student murder case from the local court at Sohna, alleging that the bar has restrained lawyers from representing the accused in the sensational case. Thomas was arrested in connection with the case.

During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi and advocate Sandeep Kapur, appearing for Thomas, told the bench there was "hostile atmosphere" at the Sohna court and no lawyer was appearing for the accused in the case.

Class 2 student Pradyuman was found with his throat slit on the morning of September 8 in the toilet of the Ryan International School in Gurugram.

Police allege that 42-year-old bus conductor Ashok Kumar killed him with a knife after the boy resisted an attempt to sodomise him.
By PTI: 3-months: Malaiya

Indore, Sep 18 (PTI) Madhya Pradesh Finance Minister Jayant Malaiya has suggested that the small businesses with an annual turnover of less than Rs 1.5-crore should be allowed to file the Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns once in three months instead of every month.

Malaiya has forwarded this suggestion to the GST Council in a bid to reduce the burden on the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN).

advertisement

"Eighty five per cent of the traders coming under the GST regime are those whose annual turnover is lesser than Rs 1.5 crore. Due to large number of traders under this category, problems are being faced by them while filing the online return through GSTN," Malaiya told reporters here.

He added, "In view of these circumstances, I suggested that the traders with annual turnover of less than Rs 1.5- crore should be allowed to file the GST returns once in three months so that the burden on GSTN could be reduced."

Malaiya said he had already forwarded this suggestion in a recent meeting of the GST council. He expressed hope that the GST council would discuss on his suggestion in the meeting scheduled on October 24 at New Delhi and find a way out.

He also informed that in Madhya Pradesh, a new system would be developed in Excise Department by creating separate circles on the lines of the Commercial Tax Department. PTI HWP ADU MAS RMT BAS

--- ENDS ---
New Delhi: In yet another shocking incident, a 70-year-old woman has accused her 45-year-old son of raping her under the influence of liquor for the last two years.

As per the reports of PTI, the elderly woman who resides at a village in Batala, Punjab lodged a complaint with the police on Friday.

The woman informed officials that she has four sons and three daughters and she had been living with her bachelor son while her other children were married and lived separately.

Talking to PTI, the officials said that the victim remained silent out of fear that the crime would bring a bad name to the family.

However, when she narrated the horrific incident to one of her daughters, her family decided to inform it to the police. "On the basis of her complaint, a case of rape was registered against the accused, who was absconding", the police said.

(With inputs from PTI)
New York: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with a high-powered Indian delegation, will hold nearly 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with world leaders in the United States over the next seven days.

The minister is expected to attend a trilateral meet with Japanese and American counterparts Taro Kono and Rex Tillerson respectively. The meet comes amid rising nuclear threats of North Korea who fired a ballistic missile over Japan for the second time on September 15 within a span of a month.

It also comes amid China extending its power and influence in the region.

Swaraj, who arrived in New York on Monday, will represent India at the 72nd UN General Assembly (UNGA). She is expected to rake the issues of terrorism, people-centric migration, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, UN reforms, climate change, and other peace-keeping issues in the United Nation General Assembly.

On the sidelines of UNGA, she will also attend a meeting chaired by United States President Donald Trump to discuss terrorism.

The minister is scheduled to have a series of meetings on Monday including that with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

India is among the 120 countries who have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary-General.

Syed Akbaruddin, the Indian Ambassador to the United Nations, in an interaction with Indian reporters ruled out a bilateral meeting between Swaraj and her Pakistani counterpart.

However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings including that of SAARC and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Swaraj will address the UNGA on September 23.

With PTI, ANI Inputs
Mumbai: Aiming to make REITs and InvITs more attractive to investors, capital markets regulator Sebi on Monday relaxed norms to allow these trusts to raise funds by issuing debt securities.

This will be allowed for REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) and InvITs (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) which are listed on national stock exchanges.

The Sebi board has decided to have further consultations with the stakeholders on a proposal to allow REITs to invest at least 50 per cent stake in the underlying holding company. Similarly, it has allowed a holding company, with at least 50 per cent stake, to invest in the underlying special purpose vehicle.

Sebi's board has approved amendment to REITs and InvITs regulations in order to facilitate growth of such trusts, the regulator said in a statement after its board meeting.

Sebi has also decided to amend the definition of 'valuer' for both REITs and InvITs.

The regulator had notified the REITs and InvITs Regulations in 2014, allowing setting up and listing of such trusts which are very popular in some advanced markets.

However, only two InvITs -- IRB InvIT Fund and Indiagrid Trust -- have got listed on the stock exchanges so far and not a single REIT has been listed in the country.

Despite various earlier relaxations, listings have not taken place as they have failed to attract investors.

Regarding REITs, Sebi has allowed 'strategic investors' like registered NBFC, scheduled commercial bank, and international multilateral financial institutions to participate in the public issues of such trusts. Such investors are already allowed in InvITs.

Now, a REIT would require single asset under it from the current two projects. This is on similar lines of InvIT. Also, Sebi has allowed REITs to lend to the underlying holding company.
Washington: Scientists have developed devices that run on almost zero power and can transmit data across distances of up to 2.8 kilometers, paving the way for a vast array of 'smart' interconnected devices.

The team built a contact lens prototype and a flexible patch that attaches to human skin, which successfully transmitted information across a 3,300-square-foot atrium.

Previous smart contact lens designs can achieve a three- foot range, researchers said.

Current flexible electronics and sensors that can operate with very low power typically can not communicate with other devices more than a few feet or meters away.

This limits their practical use in applications ranging from medical monitoring and home sensing to smart cities and precision agriculture.

The long-range backscatter system, developed by researchers at the University of Washington in the US, uses reflected radio signals to transmit data at extremely low power and low cost.

The device achieved reliable coverage throughout 4,800- square-foot house, an office area covering 41 rooms and a one-acre vegetable farm.

"Until now, devices that can communicate over long distances have consumed a lot of power. The tradeoff in a low-power device that consumes microwatts of power is that its communication range is short," said Shyam Gollakota, associate professor at UW.

"Now we've shown that we can offer both, which will be pretty game-changing for a lot of different industries and applications," said Gollakota.

The team's latest long-range backscatter system provides reliable long-range communication with sensors that consume 1,000 times less power than existing technologies capable of transmitting data over similar distances.

It is an important and necessary breakthrough toward embedding connectivity into billions of everyday objects.

The system will be commercialised by Jeeva Wireless, a company founded by the UW team.

The sensors are so cheap - with an expected bulk cost of 10 to 20 cents each - that farmers looking to measure soil temperature or moisture could affordably blanket an entire field to determine how to efficiently plant seeds or water.

Other potential applications range from sensor arrays that could monitor pollution, noise or traffic in "smart" cities or medical devices that could wirelessly transmit information about a heart patient's condition around the clock.
Riyadh: Social media platform Snapchat has blocked access to Al Jazeera content in Saudi Arabia, the media reported on Monday.



the popular photo-sharing app said it was asked by the Saudi authorities to remove the Qatari-backed broadcaster`s Discover Publisher Channel because it violated local laws, reports the BBC.



"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement.



Qatar is in an ongoing dispute with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).



The four countries cut ties with Qatar earlier this year, accusing the country of supporting terrorism.



After the start of the dispute, Saudi Arabia had also demanded the Qatari government to shut Al Jazeera altogether as one of 13 conditions to remove sanctions against the country.



However, those conditions were later withdrawn.
Meerut: Two months after she stormed out of the Rajya Sabha, BSP chief Mayawati on Monday kicked-off a massive campaign in an attempt to reclaim her Dalit constituency.

Addressing a large gathering of supporters and party workers in Meerut, the former Uttar Pradesh CM said that the situation in the country was 'worse than Emergency', "Various arms and agencies of the central government like Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Income Tax (IT) have been let loose on Opposition leaders to intimidate them and muzzle their voice."

She also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of not being serious about the welfare of the Dalits and the weaker classes of society and cited how she was not allowed by the treasury benches in the Rajya Sabha to speak on the caste conflict in Saharanpur.



"When I was not being allowed to raise the issues regarding my people, I decided to resign," Mayawati said, justifying her resignation from the Upper House of the Parliament.

She claimed that the BJP triggered "riots between Dalits and Kshatriya outfits" and clashes had broken out "on the day of my visit to Shabbirpur in Saharanpur district. It was planned."

Further, the BSP supremo raked up the issue of 'faulty and tampered' EVMs, which she said dented the BSP and worked in favour of the BJP in the UP Assembly elections earlier this year.

The Dalit leader slammed the Yogi Adityanath government in the state and said it was hoodwinking the farmers of the state on its poll promise of a loan waiver.



"The fraud they are doing on the hapless farmers is being exposed now as at many places farmers have got loan waiver cheques of Rs 1 and Rs 10," she said.

Mayawati assured her supporters that desertions by senior leaders and 'conspiracies' by opponents will not be a deterrent for her in fighting for their cause.



In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, her party drew a blank and in the 2017 state Assembly polls, the party got only 19 of the 403 seats, coming a poor third to the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP).

In 2012 when ousted from power by the SP, it had got 80 seats.

(With Agency inputs)
Kolkata: The West Bengal finance department has recently issued directives to 32 departments asking them to return its unspent fund and sought explanations from them on why funds allotted to them were not fully utilised, official sources said.

According to a senior official at the finance department, the move was initiated to "strengthen" financial discipline.

The practice will continue, the official said.

In a notification issued by the finance department, all the 32 departments have been asked to give reasons for their inability to spend the funds they were provided with, he said.

The notification also mentioned the account where the unspent money should be returned, he said.

The decision was taken at a recent meeting of senior officials of the finance department, the financial advisor and representatives of the 32 departments, the official said.

Another official of the finance department said, the principal secretary of the state finance department, Hari Krishna Dwivedi has informed all the departments that seeking explanation and asking to return unused funds from various departments would continue in the future.

"It has come to our notice that in the last financial year, these 32 departments failed in utilising even 15 to 20 percent of the fund they were allotted. The state government will use the returned fund in other development projects," the source said.

The department had failed to spend money from their personal ledger account (PLA), from their bank accounts deposits, he added.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on September 4 asked the departments to return the funds they had failed to utilise so that the government could utilise it for another development purpose.

"During the meeting itself, some departments tried to give their logic in failing to utilise the funds allotted to them. Representatives from these departments were also asked few other questions which they had answered in the meeting," the official said.

Representatives of some departments, where some projects were already ongoing, were told to continue with their work and not to return the funds.

"These departments who are already having some ongoing projects have been asked to continue with their work and they do not need to return any money now," the source said.

Possibly with an eye on next year's Panchayat elections in the state, the Mamata Banerjee government was trying to expedite projects and finish them as fast as possible, the source added.
New York: Following several deadly terror attacks in Britain over the past six months, Britain`s Prime Minister Theresa May is set to urge Facebook and Google to perk up their efforts in cracking down on online radicalization.



May will demand tougher action to combat online radicalization at a showdown in New York this week, The Mirror reported late Sunday.



"In a 15-minute speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, she will call on leaders and tech giants to help halt the spread of poisonous material that is warping young minds," a UK official was quoted as saying.



She will then host talks on tackling extremism with Facebook, Microsoft, and Google alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.



Last week, as many as 30 people were injured in an explosion which occurred at the Parsons Green subway station in West London, of which the Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility.



British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said that Britain`s terrorism threat level has been lowered from "critical" to "severe" after being raised to the highest possible in the wake of the Friday explosion.



Rudd made the statement on Sunday after British police arrested two suspects in connection to the explosion in a packed rush-hour carriage on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported.



Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge, and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.
By PTI: New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) The Supreme Court today asked the Tamil Nadu government to apprise it about the steps taken to control the protests over NEET examination which had intensified after the alleged suicide of a Dalit medical course aspirant.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud asked the chief secretary of the state to file an affidavit in this regard in two weeks and posted the matter for further hearing on October 19.

advertisement

The top court had on September 8 asked the state to prevent any agitation over National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET) examination issue which had intensified after the suicide of a 17-year-old girl S Anitha.

It had also directed the government to prosecute anyone indulging in any activity that created a law and order problem and stalled normal life in the state.

Anitha had allegedly committed suicide on September 1, a week after the top court had ruled that medical college admissions in Tamil Nadu will be based on the NEET exam.

The apex court had said that every citizen had a fundamental right to peacefully protest and demonstrate, but they cannot cause a situation that resulted in violence and paralysed the law and order situation.

The petition, filed by advocate G S Mani, has said that the state was under obligation to ensure that normal life of the citizens was not disrupted due to these agitations and protests.

The plea also claimed that due to the agitations and rail and road blockages, normal life of citizens has been jeopardised and the people were facing immense difficulty due to this.

It had further said that political parties and individuals cannot be allowed to hold protests against the order passed by the apex court in NEET matter.

The suicide of the girl had led to widespread protests in Tamil Nadu with many protesters being detained. The petitioner had also sought a judicial inquiry into the suicide. PTI RRT ABA SJK RKS ARC

--- ENDS ---
TOKYO: The international community must remain united and enforce sanctions against North Korea after its repeated launch of ballistic missiles, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in an editorial published in the New York Times on Sunday.

Abe`s editorial was published before world leaders gather in New York for a United Nations General Assembly meeting this week, where North Korea`s ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programmes are expected to loom large over proceedings.

North Korea launched a missile over Japan on Friday, its second in the past three weeks, and conducted its sixth and by far most powerful nuclear test on Sept. 3, in defiance of international pressure.

Such tests are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions and show that North Korea can now target the United States or Europe, Abe said.

Diplomacy and dialogue will not work with North Korea and concerted pressure by the entire international community is essential to tackle the threats posed by North Korea, Abe wrote.

A week ago, the 15-member U.N. Security Council unanimously adopted its ninth sanctions resolution since 2006 over North Korea`s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.
Manila: A Catholic priest kidnapped by Islamic State supporters when they occupied parts of a southern Philippine city nearly four months ago is free, authorities said.

Father Teresito Suganob appeared at a press conference at military headquarters in the capital Manila on Monday.

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said he was rescued late on Saturday night as troops over-ran the militants` control center inside a mosque in Marawi city.
California: Hollywood's elite gathered Sunday as television's glittering Emmys got off to a distinctly political start, in a race seen by critics as the most suspenseful in a decade.

The glitzy ceremony in downtown Los Angeles -- the first under the administration of President Donald Trump -- was widely expected to have a strongly political flavor, and host Stephen Colbert set the tone in his opening monologue.

"However you feel about the president, and you do feel about the president, you can't deny that every show was influenced by Donald Trump in some way," he said.

"All the late night shows, obviously, 'House of Cards', the new season of 'American Horror Story'."

Politics was also in the air as John Lithgow picked up the first award of the night: best supporting actor in a drama for his acclaimed turn as Winston Churchill in Netflix's British royal drama "The Crown."

"In these crazy times his life even as an old man reminds us what leadership and courage in government really looks like," the US actor said.

NBC's long-running comedy sketch show "Saturday Night Live" received 22 nominations -- the joint-highest total alongside "Westworld" -- after a year of mercilessly spoofing the new commander-in-chief.

Its haul of five Creative Arts statuettes included outstanding guest actress in a comedy series for Melissa McCarthy, whose "Unhinged Spicey" take on Sean Spicer came to embody early criticism of the administration.

The former White House press secretary, whose full-throated defense of Trump earned him derision on television, delighted his former tormentors in a surprise appearance at the opening of the show.

SNL was one of a number of shows with three statuettes as the ceremony reached the halfway point, with Kate McKinnon tearfully accepting the award for best supporting actress in a comedy series for her portrayal of Hillary Clinton.

Alec Baldwin was tapped as best supporting actor in a comedy for his Trump impersonation.

"I suppose I should say at long last, Mr President, here is your Emmy," he joked, in a dig at Trump`s oft-stated annoyance at never having won a statuette for NBC reality show "The Apprentice" or its celebrity spin-off.

The show also picked up the award for best variety sketch show, and is in the running for more gongs at the main ceremony. HBO's fantasy epic "Game of Thrones" has a record 38 awards, but is ineligible for the 69th Primetime Emmys, having started its seventh season too late.

That left the field clear for numerous much talked-about first-timers, including HBO sci-fi Western show "Westworld," Hulu`s dystopian "The Handmaid`s Tale" and Netflix`s 1980s-set horror series "Stranger Things."

The three series already have a huge 13 statuettes between them from last weekend's Creative Arts Emmys, which recognize behind-the-scenes talent as well as guest acting appearances.

"Not since 'Mad Men' began its... winning streak in 2008 has there been such a wide open field for the night's most prestigious trophy: best drama series," said weekly trade paper Variety.

That category -- to be announced at the end of the night -- includes five debutants, "Westworld," "The Handmaid's Tale," NBC's family drama "This Is Us," and two Netflix shows, "Stranger Things" and British royal drama "The Crown."

"The Handmaid's Tale," based on the 1985 novel by Canadian author Margaret Atwood, had three statuettes going into the halfway point.

Its writer Bruce Miller was first on stage, followed by Ann Dowd, picking up her first Emmy at age 61 for her portrayal of brutal instructor Aunt Lydia.

"Well, I think this is a dream, you know. I know it`s an actor`s dream and I`m deeply grateful to you," she said.

"I have been acting for a long time and that this should happen now, I don`t have the words."

The show's Reed Morano also picked up a statuette for directing.
New Delhi: A quick-thinking Russian soldier who prevented an all-out nuclear conflict with the US during the Cold War has died at the age of 77 in Moscow.

The incident dates back to September 26, 1983, when Stanislav Petrov was manning a secret command centre of the Red Army.

The Russian held his nerve when the radar screen showed five US ballistic missiles cruising toward the Soviet Union.

As per protocol, he should have immediately ordered a counter strike but he ignored it and decided to rely on gut instinct, which said it was a false alarm.

The siren howled, but I just sat there for a few seconds, staring at the big, back-lit, red screen with the word launch on it, the Guardian quoted him as saying in an interview.

All I had to do was to reach for the phone; to raise the direct line to our top commanders, he reportedly told the BBCs Russian Service in 2013.

Instead, he reported a malfunction in the early warning system, although he wasnt sure if he was doing the right thing.

Twenty-three minutes later I realised that nothing had happened. If there had been a real strike, then I would already know about it. It was a relief, he said.

It was later found out that the false alarm was due to a false reading by a satellite which took the suns rays as a missile launch.

The incident had taken place at the height of the Cold War.

Petrov, survived by a son and a daughter, was relieved to know that his gut instinct came out to be true. We are wiser than the computers, he declared.

He died on May 19 in the Moscow suburb of Fryazino.
Washington: US President Donald Trump once again mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, calling him "Rocket Man", an allusion to Pyongyang`s recent nuclear tests, as well as speaking ironically about the "long ... lines" of people waiting to get fuel in the nation after the sanctions imposed by the UN.

"I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!" wrote Trump on his Twitter account on Sunday.



The reference to the gas lines was made, evidently, as an allusion to the sanctions imposed last week by the international body on North Korea after Pyongyang`s recent missile tests, Efe news reported.



The latest sanctions include a reduction in the amount of petroleum that Pyongyang may import, although the true impact on the North Korean economy has not yet been confirmed.



Moon and Trump agreed on the need to fully implement the sanctions so that North Korea understands that continuing with its weapons testing will only result in its increasing diplomatic isolation and additional economic pressure, which will -- in all likelihood -- ultimately lead to the regime`s "collapse", the South Korean President`s Office said.



The conversation between the two leaders came after Pyongyang`s launching on Friday of another long-range missile, which overflew Japanese territory before landing harmlessly in the Pacific.



Moon and Trump agreed to place additional pressure on North Korea, including implementing the new batch of sanctions unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council this past week, a response to Pyongyang`s sixth and most power nuclear test on September 3.
Seoul: The US military on Monday flew a pair of B-1B bombers and F-35 fighter jets in bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula, in a show of force against North Korea, South Korea`s Defence Ministry said.

The bombers flew from Guam and the fighters flew from Japan, joined by six South Korean fighter jets in the drill, a South Korean defence ministry official said.
FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar: Cristiano Ronaldo to Lionel Messi, stars likely to play their last WC
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The recent scandalous revelations linked with Azerbaijan prove that there can be no normal interaction with Aerbaijan as a state, and above all no EU agreements with it, MEP from Luxemburg Frank Engel told ARMENPRESS commenting on the recent loud developments over Azerbaijan, particularly the Azerbaijani Laundromat corruption scandal which the European Parliament will investigate.

An amendment was tabled to a report adopted on governance in Eastern Partnership countries last week. That amendment condemned Aazerbaijani state policy of corrupting officials in Europe in the strongest possible terms, and was adopted by plenary. This text also calls for an inquiry into the possible ramifications of Azerbaijani payments or other corruption practices within the institutions of the European Union. Interestingly, there were quite a few colleagues who voted against the amendment  I cannot imagine that they did so without pressure from Azerbaijan, he stated.

To the conviction of the MEP, all these revelations just show how great influence Azerbaijan has on the EU Member States. And this is the main reason why the entire network of the corrupted supporters of Azerbaijan inside EU institutions and Member States should be investigated in detail.

I remember the revelations by a Bulgarian journalist concerning diplomatic AZ flight used for all sorts of illegal and reprehensible practices. This journalist has lost her job in the meantime. This indicates to me how far-reaching Aerbaijani influence in member states of the EU is, and constitutes all the more reason to inquire in detail into their network of paid and corrupted supporters - in EU institutions and in member states.

Hungarian investigative journalists have now revealed, on the basis of the Panama papers data, that millions of euros were paid into offshore accounts in Hungary just before and for months after the transfer of Ramil Safarov to Aerbaijan. The transactions took place between pre-existing companies which have been liquidated some time afterwards. It will be as good as impossible to determine who exactly, as a physical person, paid to which other physical person - but the facts are such that there can now be no reasonable doubt that the transfer of Safarov was bought. This should inspire Hungarian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter - if there is an authority left in that country which would dare to investigate such a thing, MEP Engel concluded.

Syuzi Muradyan
Sushma Swaraj reached New York ahead of the UN General Assembly that will kick off on Tuesday. The UNGA comes against the backdrop of a humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and North Korea's latest nuclear test.

Sushma Swaraj arrives in New York ahead of the UN General Assembly (Photo: Twitter/India in USA)

By India Today Web Desk: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj today landed in New York ahead of the annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session, which kicks off on Tuesday.

Swaraj will be in New York for around a week, during which time she and her delegation of top Indian officials will hold about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with leaders attending the session.

advertisement

The external affairs minister will address the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, following which she will return to India.

External Affairs Minister of India Mrs. Sushma Swaraj arrives in New York for the 72nd UN General Assembly.#UNGA pic.twitter.com/yJYu0R1hUU- India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) September 18, 2017

The General Assembly of the 193-member UN comes against the backdrop of a humanitarian crisis in Myanmar that has forced hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims to flee the country into neighbouring Bangladesh.

The crisis has touched India too; according to government estimates, around 40,000 Rohingya Muslims are illegally staying in the country. The top UN human rights official previously 'deplored' New Delhi's position that India would deport Rohingya Muslims from the country. India had sharply reacted to that statement.

Offering a preview of Sushma Swaraj's engagements in the US, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin offered no indication of whether the topic of Rohingya Muslims in India would come up during the minister's meetings with world leaders.

Akbaruddin said that issues of climate change, terrorism, people-centric migration and peacekeeping are other key focus areas for India this year.

JAM-PACKED DAY FOR SWARAJ

Swaraj will kick off her official engagement later today with a trilateral meeting with her American and Japanese counterparts Rex Tillerson, and Taro Kono respectively.

Aimed at lending momentum to cooperation between the three countries, the meeting also turns significant amid China flexing its muscles in the region.

India outlines priorities for 72nd session of UN General Assembly. pic.twitter.com/lD6kujdwJ3- India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) September 17, 2017

In a day jam-packed with consecutive meetings, Swaraj will also participate in a high-level meeting on UN reforms, hosted by the US and chaired by President Donald Trump.

India is among the 120 countries that have supported the reform efforts of the UN Secretary General. India has said that the UN reforms need to be "broad- based and all-encompassing" and the changes should not be restricted to its Secretariat only.

Swaraj's other meetings include those with Tunisian Foreign Minister Khemaies Jhinaoui, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics and her Bolivian counterpart Fernando Huanacuni Mamani.

NO BILATERAL MEETING WITH PAKISTAN

advertisement

Swaraj will not meet her Pakistani counterpart for a bilateral meeting, Akbaruddin had said earlier while previewing the minister's engagements.

However, the two leaders are likely to see each other during several multilateral meetings including that of SAARC and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

On the topic of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and specifically, designating Masood Azhar a global terrorist, Akbaruddin had said that India would not rest until the Jaish-e-Mohammed chief is brought to justice.

"If I were to use a term, the matter is what we would call in judicial terms sub-judice. Currently the matter is with a UN committee. We hope that the committee will be able to fulfill its role in designating Masood Azhar who we have tried for quite some time but have not succeeded yet," Akbaruddin had said.

TRUMP, NORTH KOREA

Among the other major highlights of this year's UN General Assembly will be US President Donald Trump's address.

This will be the first time Trump will address the UNGA and the speech he delivers on Tuesday/Wednesday will be his most high-profile yet on an international level.

advertisement

The General Assembly also comes just over a fortnight after North Korea conducted its sixth, and most powerful, nuclear test.

The September 3 testing, which Pyongyang said was of a hydrogen bomb, was followed by the UN Security Council tightening its sanctions on North Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Sushma Swaraj's speech at the UNGA last year

--- ENDS ---
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The ruling regime of Turkey, refusing to bring into life the Zurich protocols signed in 2009, once again proved that establishing peace in the region does not stem from its interests, ARMENPRESS reports President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan said in his speech at the Armenia-Diaspora 6th conference.

Armenia is still forces to live under blockade in this complex region. Despite our good will, our political courage highly appreciated by all our international partners, Turkey refused to bring into life the two Zurich protocols signed in 2009. Moreover, it tried to make Armenia the hostage of those protocols, one again proving that the establishment of peace in this region does not stem from the interests of the existing regime of that country. On February 10, 2015 I recalled the signed protocols from the agenda of the National Assembly. The same year I announced the last word of Armenia over this issue from the high platform of the UN, and that position has not changed, ARMENPRESS reports the President saying.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. A group of nationalists attacked with stones Armenian believers coming out of St. Hovhannes Armenian Church, ARMENPRESS reports, citing artigercek.com, Istanbul-Armenian public figure Yervand Ozuzun informed.

A surprise was prepared for those coming out of the church  a group of people started to throw stones shouting You deserve death. This is a demonstration of hatred and hostility, the point Turkey has reached, Ozuzun said.

He noted that every Sunday liturgies are delivered at the churches and police officers supervise the church area until the liturgy is over. Anyway, Yervand Ozuzun considered it a sad fact that they have a security problem in a country where they are a citizen.

Minorities in Turkey, especially Armenians, have become a target of hate speech. The word Armenian is used as an insulting word by many here, Ozuzun noted with pity.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. Arms sales in a conflict zone can only aggravate the conflict and escalate the situation, Foreign Minister of Artsakh Karen Mirzoyan said during the topical discussion Foreign policy agenda in the sidelines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference, answering a question about the Russian arms sales to Azerbaijan.

We have a clear position on that issue and we have expressed it numerous times, Mirzoyan said.

Referring to the question about Azerbaijans territorial claims from Artsakh, he clarified that according to the Constitution of Artsakh, no territory of Artsakh can have any other status. All the territories of Artsakh have the same status and are an inseparable part of our country. We are guided by just this Constitutional provision, the Foreign Minister of Artsakh concluded.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. Our steps over the coming years will seek to bolster the populations natural growth in Armenia and achieve a significant change in the emigration and immigration ratio, President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan said during the 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference.

Summing up the achievements and shortcomings of the twenty-fifth years of independence, at the first session of the National Assembly of 6th convocation, we put on record our perceptions of the main priorities for the next 25 years. Improving the demographic situation in Armenia was a key focus over there. We are stating that the demographic trends are extremely worrying in our country: they are caused by several objective and subjective factors. Our steps over the coming years will seek to bolster the populations natural growth in Armenia and achieve a significant change in the emigration and immigration ratio, ARMENPRESS reports Sargsyan saying.

In the words of the President, it has been announced that the goal of the authorities is to ensure at least 4 million population in Armenia by 2040. Obviously, we will hardly achieve that goal by merely increasing the birth rate, life expectancy or by improving the demographic pattern. Nevertheless, we will be steadfastly moving forward in the aforementioned areas. Therefore, this goal implies achieving serious indicators in immigration over the next 25 years, he said, adding that this will be the main topic of the discussions of the coming Armenia-Diaspora conferences.

The next Armenia-Diaspora Forum will come as a pan-Armenian discussion of the 4 million Armenia program and the real start of its implementation. This is what we should agree upon here and right now, President Sargsyan said.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of the Republic of Artsakh Karen Mirzoyan is convinced that sooner or later Artsakh will return to the negotiation table of Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict settlement. During the topical discussion Foreign policy agenda in the sidelines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference Foreign Minister of Artsakh Karen Mirzoyan expressed conviction that Artsakhs full return to the negotiation table will give new impetus to the negotiation process.

This opinion is shared by both Armenia and international institutions and mediators. The only obstacle is Azerbaijan with its unconstructive policy, ARMENPRESS reports Mirzoyan saying.

He added that Azerbaijan does everything to leave Artsakh out of negotiations. They understand very well that the full participation of Artsakh in the negotiations will shake the false ideas that they have raised for years, Artsakhs Foreign Minister said.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Armed Forces is in a rather intensive phase of arms acquisitions and modernization, Defense Minister of Armenia Vigen Sargsyan said during 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference. You know that Azerbaijan has chosen arms race, but we do not conduct a policy of quantity against quantity. The Armenian Armed Forces is pursuing an effective management of arms, ARMENPRESS reports Sargsyan saying.

Vigen Sargsyan noted that following the April war serious works have been done to reinforce the front line and make it more secure.

We have got a strong front line and following the April incidents it has qualitatively changed in terms of installing videotaping devices. Now the service of the front line servicemen has become safer. Of course, this does not mean there are no shootings. There are shootings and sometimes we suffer loses, but in such cases we retaliate 3 times stronger. This is a principle for us, Vigen Sargsyan stated.

The Defense Minister also referred to Armenia-Russia military cooperation and the official visits paid by him. I paid my first visit to Russia as a Defense Minister, and despite the existing rumors Russia was and remains our reliable ally, he said.

He emphasized that Russia sells arms to Armenia with favorable conditions and is of key importance for Armenias arms acquisitions. But this does not mean we have no other links. My second visit was to Greece. I have also been to neighboring Georgia and Iran, and in China recently, Vigen Sargsyan said, adding that in the near future he plans to pay a visit to Canada.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The Azerbaijani vandalisms both during the first years of Karabakh movement and in April 2016 leave no doubt that the struggle of the people of Artsakh for their rights and determination was fair both in the past and present, ARMENPRESS reports Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian said during the topical session of foreign policy agenda in the sidelines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference.

One of the approaches that we have adopted aimed at the solution of the problem is the international recognition of the right of Artsakh to self-determination. Today the right of peoples to self-determination, together with the non-use of force or the threat to use it and territorial integrity is one of the basic principles for Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement. These three principles are enshrined in the statements of the Presidents of the Minsk group Co-chair countries and in the documents of the OSCE and some other documents, the Minister said.

According to FM Nalbandian, the Armenian side has announced many times that it supports the proposals of the Co-chair countries as basis for negotiations, while Azerbaijan constantly refuses them. Its clear that there can be no settlement unless Azerbaijan is committed to the principles of the international right. Instead, Baku prefers to fabricate some fictitious scenarios and attribute to the Co-chairs some imaginary proposals, Edward Nalbandian said.

The Foreign Minister of Armenia emphasized that the conflict settlement must ensure clear security guarantees for the people of Artsakh.

Ensuring the security of the people is one of the international obligations, and Nagorno Karabakh earned that right also by making great sacrifices and shedding blood. The militaristic rhetoric of Baku, insemination of hatred towards Armenians by the leadership, the regular violations of the ceasefire, new and new threats, and the April crimes leave no doubts that in case of incomplete security guarantees this conflict cannot be settled, he said.

Minister Nalbandian also noted that in the recent period the Co-chairs have started to indicate the side that has violated, aiming to sober up Azerbaijan.
YEREVAN, 18 SEPTEMBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 18 September, USD exchange rate stood at 478.39 drams. EUR exchange rate stood at 571.25 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 8.31 drams. GBP exchange rate stood at 649.89 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price stood at 20372.37 drams. Silver price stood at 273.01 drams. Platinum price stood at 15072.98 drams.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. There are no obstacles for signing Armenia-EU new agreement, ARMENPRESS reports Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian said during the topical session of foreign policy agenda in the sidelines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora conference.

There are no obstacles from our side and we will create no obstacles for the signing of that agreement, he said.

The agreement with the EU is planned to be signed during the Eastern Partnership summit in Brussels in November.
Staceys Bakery is developing a biscuit-based cake named after a Derbyshire greeting.

Ay Up Me Duck, which was quoted by Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie to greet actor Jack OConnell at an awards ceremony, is a duck-shaped cake, which has flavours including flapjack, congress tart filling, spices, jam and gingerbread. Staceys described the combination as unusual, but delicious.

Although it is still in the development stage, customers are being invited to help decide on the finished product.

Coming up with a new cake can be quite difficult when there is so much out there. The hardest part is the technical side of it, actually making it - coming up with something that you can make efficiently is the real challenge, said David Stacey, owner of the century-old family bakery.

We decided to go with a combination of some of the cakes we know our customers love. Most people in Derbyshire will be familiar with saying Ay up me duck and its a common phrase in the towns where our bakery and shops are based.

Samples will be in the shops throughout September and the final version will be on sale in October.
The SDM report has found six major lapses in the school's administration that acted like fodder to the accused peon, who sexually assaulted a five-year-old in the premises.

By India Today Web Desk: A sub-divisional magistrate's report on the rape case of a five-year-old, who was assaulted in the premises of Tagore Public School, has identified six major lapses in the administration of the private school.

According to reports, the two major faults that reduced the 'deterrence effect' on the accused were- the non-coverage of CCTV cameras in some areas in the building and that the accused had been employed without any police verification or background check.

advertisement

In addition, the report also accused the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) of not taking action against the private school for conducting classes in 'areas with no CCTV coverage'.

The incident happened on September 9 , a day after seven-year-old Pradyuman Thakur was found murdered in Gurgaon's Ryan International School.

The five-year-old student was allegedly lured with a candy to an empty classroom by the peon, identified as Vikas (40), where she was sexually assaulted.

Speaking to India Today, DCP Nupur Prasad said that after raping her, the peon Vikas "put his hand on the victim's mouth and threatened her of dire consequences".

The accused peon had been working with the school for over two and a half years, and the administration still had not carried out any background check on the employee.

Earlier, during a counseling session, the girl described the accused as a "man wearing a cap". Based on her information the police arrested Vikas.

Police has also said that Vikas was under the influence of alcohol when he allegedly committed the crime.

Meanwhile, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has ordered that all schools in the capital - private or government, need to install CCTVs in the premises that cover all classrooms, corridors, stairs and outdoor areas.

--- ENDS ---
Pret A Manger is to open a third Veggie Pret in London next month.

The third store, the location of which has not been disclosed, will stock a range of vegetarian and vegan food and drink, catering to the growing demand for meat-free cuisine.

Our third Veggie Pret shop is in the making and due to open in October, said Pret A Manger CEO Clive Schlee in his blog.

It follows the opening of the first Veggie Pret in Soho, London in June 2016, originally opened as a pop-up store, but made a permanent fixture in September due to an overwhelming response from customers. The second Veggie Pret opened in Shoreditch in March.

Both stores launched with a 40-plus item menu, including vegan salted caramel brownies, vegan mac & greens and a matcha coconut latte.

The store represents Prets increasing commitment to meat-free, which has also seen it launch a Not Just For Veggies campaign and trial vegetarian-only fridges in 250 of its 325 stores. Despite being extended for the summer, Pret has confirmed the fridges will not become a permanent fixture. Instead, they will make way for its new autumn menu.

The veggie fridge trial was met with a very encouraging initial response, so we kept them for the summer. While the fridges have certainly helped to raise awareness of our meat-free menu, we noticed that more customers actually choose veggie options when they are clearly labelled and integrated with meaty items, rather than segregated in a separate fridge, added Schlee.
California AB 375 was a bill to restore the online privacy rights that the Republican Congress stripped away in March when they passed a bill that allowed your ISP to spy on you and sell data about your online activities.



AB 375 was enjoying enormous momentum in the Democrat-controlled California legislature, when a group of lawmakers  whom records show were heavily lobbied by Verizon, AT&T and Comcast  held a late-night session in which they killed the bill for 2017.

This is your periodic reminder that huge swathes of the Democratic party, especially at the highest echelons, are effectively Republicans who don't hate gay people.



"It is extremely disappointing that the California legislature failed to restore broadband privacy rights for residents in this state in response to the Trump Administration and Congressional efforts to roll back consumer protection," EFF Legislative Counsel Ernesto Falcon said. "Californians will continue to be denied the legal right to say no to their cable or telephone company using their personal data for enhancing already high profits. Perhaps the legislature needs to spend more time talking to the 80% of voters that support the goal of A.B. 375 and less time with Comcast, AT&T, and Google's lobbyists in Sacramento."



California Legislature Sells Out Our Data to ISPs

[Dave Maass/EFF]
California's Inland Empire was hit hard by the 2008 crisis, with disproportionate foreclosures on poor and working-class families, leaving neighborhoods blighted by empty, vandalized homes.

But then a funny thing happened: the rents in these blighted neighborhoods started going up and up and up, so that now 63% of tenants are paying 30% or more of their income in rent (33% of tenants are paying 50% or more).

The soaring rents are the results of a cornered market: the houses in San Bernardino were snapped up by Invitation Homes, a division of the Blackstone Group, the world's largest hedge fund. Blackstone is at the center of a national epidemic of high rents, and is financializing tenants by creating bonds based on their rent payments.

The story is told in Rana Foroohar's Makers and Takers: How Wall Street Destroyed Main Street, just publishing in paperback, in which the Financial Times associate editor describes the way that financialization undermines productive economic activity and replaces it with casino capitalism to the benefits of financiers and the detriment of the world.



Private equity investors have become the single largest group of buyers in the residential housing market, purchasing $20 billion worth of steeply discounted properties between 2012 and 2014 alone and reaping huge rewards as housing prices have slowly risen from their troughs. Blackstone, the biggest of the big private equity firms, with more than $330 billion in assets under management, has become the largest investor landlord in the country, with a portfolio of 46,000 homes and other properties that generated $1.9 billion worth of income in 2014, making real estate the largest profit center for the firm. Blackstone's CEO, the infamous Wall Street titan Stephen Schwarzman, has called the firm's move into the rental business in places like the Inland Empire a "bet on America." To be more precise, it's a bet on the fact that fewer Americans can afford, in the wake of the financial crisis, to own a home. Thus an increasing number will be forced to rent from a Wall Street investor like Blackstone. Indeed, private equity's rush into real estate goes some way toward answering one of the most perplexing economic questions of late: If housing is back, then why is the percentage of people who own homes in our country at a twenty-year low? Home values began rebounding from their post-financial-crisis trough in the beginning of 2012, and by July 2015, home sales had increased to their highest pace in eight and a half years. But the percentage of Americans who can call themselves homeowners is still declining from its peak in 2004, and many experts expect it to fall further as credit continues to be tight, young people struggle with higher-than average levels of unemployment, and baby boomers begin moving into retirement housing.

When Wall Street Owns Main Street  Literally

[Rana Foroohar/Naked Capitalism]
California Gov. Jerry Brown compared Trump supporters to cave dwellers at an event in New York. He also said that everything Trump does, including the way he handles climate change and North Korea, are "stupid and dangerous and silly." He predicts that Trump will "fail very soon."

According to Politico:

"They're both kind of very similar," Brown said at a climate change event in New York. "You should check out the derivation of 'Trump-ite' and 'troglodyte,' because they both refer to people who dwell in deep, dark caves"

Brown, the Democratic governor of the nation's most populous state, has been rushing to recruit other state and local governments to sign onto their own nonbinding climate agreements in defiance of Trump. At an event coinciding with the United Nations meeting in New York, Brown said Trump's election has made it easier to promote climate-related policies, with the rise of a "real adversary that is not believable, is not credible."

"President Trump is the null hypothesis, which he's proven," Brown said. "Everything he's doing is  stupid and dangerous and silly. I mean, come on, really, calling the North Korean dictator 'Rocket Man'?  He is accelerating the reversal through his own absurdity."While acknowledging he was making "lemonade out of a lemon," Brown predicted Trump will "fail very soon" in the face of economic and other international forces.
The island of Barbuda has lost its civilization  not one human is left on the island after Hurricane Irma devastated it. With 95% of the islands structures completely destroyed, all 1,800 residents have evacuated to nearby Antigua, and now live in shelters or with relatives. The only living creatures left on Barbuda are pets and livestock, which the non-profit group World Animal Protection are trying to feed and rescue.

According to Mashable:

Ambassador Ronald Sanders, the island nation of Antigua and Barbuda's ambassador to the United States, delivered a chilling report on the status of his country in the wake of Hurricane Irma.

"The damage is complete," Sanders told PRI's The Takeaway. "For the first time in 300 years, there's not a single living person on the island of Barbuda  a civilization that has existed on that island for over 300 years has now been extinguished."

Sanders told PRI he estimates that reconstruction could cost $300 million, and will take time. That's because rebuilding Barbuda won't be a simple matter of replacing what was once there. Instead, Barbuda must be reconstituted for a world in which another Irma might be possible.
Is President Trump feeding stories to the 'National Enquirer'?

The magazine boasts an "exclusive" story this week claiming that the Pentagon has developed a space laser that "could zap North Korea off the map" by focusing the sun's energy into a "beam of pure destructive power."

At first glance it's just another fact-challenged 'Enquirer' sci-fi fantasy, and yet the magazine does have unprecedented access to President Donald Trump, who is on the record saying the rag deserves a Pulitzer prize, and cited its dubious stories on the campaign trail.

It's not inconceivable that this 'Enquirer' story was planted by Trump himself, echoing his threat to engulf North Korea "with fire and fury like the world has never seen."

But even if the story came from the Oval Office, it's likely to be as accurate as the rest of the 'Enquirer' offerings this week. America obliterating North Korea doesn't even merit inclusion on the 'Enquirer' front page, which is devoted instead to these gems: Julia Roberts' divorce "turns nasty," NBC's Megyn Kelly has been "fired," and 95-year-old actress Betty White is "battling crippling illness." Unsurprisingly, none of these claims are supported by the stories inside.

How has Julia Roberts' divorce turned nasty? It hasn't, since there is no divorce. The 'Enquirer' claims that the actress's' husband Danny Moder is "furious" about Roberts' "romantic reconnection" with her 'Pretty Woman' co-star Richard Gere. "Kiss destroys 15-year marriage," reports the mag, displaying an incriminating photo of Roberts and Gere bussing lips. But it's not what it seems: the embrace was the pair's greeting on TV's 'Today' show in 2015  a public, innocent and friendly greeting, not a passionate clandestine lip-lock. Is Danny Moder divorcing his wife because he suddenly saw a rereun of his wife greeting an old friend on TV two years ago? Yeah, right.

"Megyn's out!" screams the 'Enquirer' headline  except as viewers can tell, Kelly is still on our screens. And the 'Enquirer' story concedes she hasn't gone yet, but merely claims: "NBC's ready to kick her off 'Today.'"

Betty White was "forced to make a desperate dash to her doctor's office after collapsing at home," the 'Enquirer reports. But aren't desperate dashes made to hospitals? Trips to one's doctor are usually less than life-threatening.

But White is fortunate to have the medical expertise of New York internist Dr Stuart Fischer, who admits never treating the actress, but insightfully informs the magazine: "This is likely the result of arteriosclerosis." She could have saved herself a desperate dash to the doctor and just phoned the 'Enquirer.'

The 'Globe' continues its almost weekly Royal soap-opera, claiming that the Queen has "changed her mind  once again"  and decided to cut out son Prince Charles and bequeath the crown directly to grandson Prince William. Apart from the fact that the Queen can't just give the throne to anyone she likes  there's a legally established line of succession  she supposedly made this decision in anger after learning of Charles' alleged love child. What's more, the 'Globe' claims "Prince Charles' illegitimate son is real successor." Okay, take a deep breath. Firstly, Charles' alleged love child was first reported by the 'Enquirer' in 2000, so this is not news to the Queen, or anyone in tabloidland. Secondly, alleged love child Jason was born in 1984, almost two years after Prince William's birth  so Jason wouldn't be first in line for the throne even if he were recognized as Charles' son and heir. It's a 16-year-old story, and it's laughable to report that "the love child scandal has outraged . . . Charles dying 91-year-old mother."

'Us' magazine devotes its cover to its exclusive story revealing that Prince Harry's love, TV's 'Suits' star Meghan Markle, finally met the Queen earlier this month. "It went well," says a source. "It'll no doubt be the first of many encounters." And on the basis of that uninspiring tid-bit, 'Us' mag spins out four pages plus its cover. The mag also promises us the story of Katie Holmes and Jamie Foxx: "The truth behind their secret romance." After years of privately dating, "they're going to start going public," reveals an unnamed source. Or maybe that's just what happens when paparazzi catch you walking hand-in-hand along a Malibu beach.

'People' magazine devotes its cover to an interview with Angelina Jolie, in which she reveals: "I'm a little bit stronger." But that's pretty much the only words she says about her personal life and break-up from husband Brad Pitt in an interview that otherwise reads like a series of questions submitted and answered by email.

Jolie steals the cover from Hillary Clinton, who merits a three-page profile on the launch of her latest memoir, having reportedly "found peace in yoga, chardonnay and silliness with her grandkids." Freed from the tyranny of daily pantsuits, she says: "It's liberating!"

Fortunately we have the crack investigative team at 'Us' mag to tell us that Cindy Crawford's daughter Kaia Gerber wore it best, that Fred Armisen wishes "avocados were illegal," that actress Melissa Rauch carries sunglasses, hand lotion and chewing gum in her Henri Bendel bag, and that the stars are just like us: they do yoga, feed parking meters, pump gas, take taxis, and buy produce. Earth-shattering, as ever.

Leave it to the 'National Examiner' to bring us the delightful story of alien mummies found in Peru  five bodies that appear more reptilian than human, according to researchers. X-rays of the alleged 1,500-year-old mummified remains supposedly disprove claims that they were fake models, but the authenticity of the remains, and their questionable provenance, leave many questions unanswered, with the entire enterprise reeking of a money-making hoax. Of course, the 'Examiner' can't resist taking the story a step too far, claiming that "Archaeologists suspect living ETs are still guarding tomb." Because what alien race wouldn't watch over the tomb of loved ones for 1,500 years?

Onwards and downwards . . .
Three high-ranking Equifax executives are being investigated for selling shares of Equifax shortly after the company was hacked, but long before Equifax admitted it had been hacked. They are Equifax Chief Financial Officer John Gamble, President of U.S. Information Solutions Joseph Loughran, and President of Workforce Solutions Rodolfo Ploder.

Equifaxdisclosed earlier this month that it discovered a security breach on July 29. The three executives sold shares worth almost $1.8 million in early August. The company has said the managers didn't know of the breach at the time they sold the shares.

To run afoul of laws that prohibit insider trading, a seller has to be aware of nonpublic information, said Stephen Crimmins, a former enforcement lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Tamil Nadu Governor Vidyasagar Rao is being constantly urged by Opposition parties and AIADMK dissenters to convene a floor test, so as to put the EPS government's strength to test.

By Rahul Shrivastava: In the middle of fast changing stakes in the Tamil Nadu power corridors, Governor Vidyasagar Rao on Monday met President Ram Nath Kovind to apprise him about the ongoing turmoil.

Rao is being constantly urged by Opposition parties and AIADMK dissenters to convene a floor test, so as to put the EPS government's strength to test.

advertisement

According to some reports, Governor Rao also met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, as he has been actively involved in brokering a future alliance of the ruling party with BJP.

Governor Rao will reach Chennai today to further hold more meetings.

In another development, a delegation of five senior AIADMK leaders including, KP Munusamy, Manoj Pandiyan and Rajya Sabha MP V Maitreyan met their attorneys to discuss regaining the two-leaves symbol from the Election Commission.

EPS FACTION AT EASE

The disqualification of 18 MLAs reduces the numerical worries for the Chief Minister. The 18 MLAs were threatening to vote against the ruling group upsetting the number game.

With the disqualification, the strength of the Tamil Nadu Assembly is now down to 216 from 234 and the Chief Minister needs support of only 108 MLAs to cross the litmus test.

Without the disqualification, the Chief Minister would have needed 118 MLAs.

--- ENDS ---
Understanding The Wandering Eye

Is Having A Wandering Eye Really Such A Bad Thing? We Take A Closer Look

The Dating Nerd is a shadowy figure whose whereabouts and identifying details remain unknown. What we do know is that he is really, really good at dating. Hes been on more dates than you can shake a lengthy bar tab at, and hes here to help the average guy step his dating game up a notch  or several.

The Question

Hi Dating Nerd,

I feel really bad. Things with my girlfriend are excellent and were totally in love. But Im still attracted to other women, like, all the time. Ive never acted on any of these attractions and I dont think my girlfriend can detect that anythings wrong. Nonetheless, this makes me feel guilty, and like not a good boyfriend. What am I doing wrong? How can I control myself better?

- Lustful Larry

The Answer

Hi Lustful Larry,

My basic advice here is that you shouldnt worry. Given that youre not acting on these feelings, youre exhibiting a totally admirable level of self-control. Being involuntarily attracted to people you see is one of the most normal human experiences there are, up there with peeing, farting, sweating, and wanting to eat pizza when intoxicated. Theres nothing wrong with merely having indecent thoughts in moral terms, especially because, as we all know, unless you're asexual or demisexual (and you, clearly, are not), being fascinated by people you find attractive is an instinctual phenomenon.

Take you, for example. You didnt choose to be this way. You didnt soberly and consciously choose to follow random women with your eyeballs; you just find yourself doing it. Its an involuntary reflex which has nothing to do with your level of commitment to your girlfriend. So its not a failure of character. Its just a nuisance.

This is one of the awkward truths of being a dude: being saddled with the male sex drive is difficult sometimes. You sort of have a split consciousness. On one level, youre a refined, evolved human being, who can understand nuclear physics, or recite poetry, or whatever, and youve got a partner who youre satisfied with. Youre a genius with a perfect life, lets face it. But on another level, youve got those deep-down parts of the lizard brain that cant stop thinking about sex with in a very basic way. Youre at work, negotiating a deal, sliding all sorts of numbers around in your higher brain, and then your attractive new coworker walks by and it all goes to hell.

And theres ultimately nothing you can do about this, except get used to it. But getting used to it actually helps quite a bit. Any unfortunate mental phenomena, whether its pain, or loneliness, or lust, is more tolerable when you simply accept its presence and move on. The fact that youre so hard on yourself for feeling totally normal human attractions is making your life way more difficult.

Heres an example. Lets say a woman in a low-cut top walks by you on a sunny day, and you spend maybe a second too long checking her out. You dont leer or anything, but you look just long enough that it makes an impact, and you walk away with some intrusive sexual thoughts. There are two ways of dealing with that. One is your way, where you launch into a crazy inner monologue about how youre a terrible person, which does absolutely nothing to dispel the image of the beautiful woman youve just seen. For the rest of your day, youre struggling with conflicting feelings, where youve got a slight boner, but your boner makes you hate yourself. And then you email an extremely intelligent advice columnist about it, after losing a bunch of sleep. Kind of a nightmare, right?

But the other way is just thinking, Well, that was something, and even maybe enjoying the fact that you got a quick glimpse at a total babe. And then proceeding with your commute. Or, in an even more annoying case, where youre totally weak in the knees for the barista you see five times a week, you can just realize that youre going to feel slightly funny every time you get a coffee, and, rather than questioning the nature of your thoughts, you can simply focus on getting through those moments and staying cool. Youll find that this is much, much easier. Just acknowledge that youre a human being, with stupid, normal apelike tendencies, and try to cope with them as best you can.

If you dont do this, youre going to go insane. Because, let me tell you, this is only going to get worse. One of the eternal human problems is that the drive for novelty, and specifically sexual novelty, is never fully satisfied. That's why millennials date casually while staying logged into a dozen different dating apps. You could be in the absolute best relationship ever, and be totally pure of heart, and still have weird fantasies about the girl next door, because, in terms of your most basic desires, your current level of satisfaction is totally irrelevant. Your brain is telling you to pay attention to whats shiny and new, simply because its new, not because its better or more fulfilling, even if you know that, on a deeper level, you dont want anyone but your girlfriend.

And, since the lust you feel in any relationship tends to decrease over time, that stupid, nagging inner voice only becomes more annoying the longer youre with somebody. How do men in successful marriages stay faithful? Well, they just act like Buddhist monks  they acknowledge that desire is a natural thing, just like weather, and that itll pass. Not only does this make for a calmer inner life, it actually makes staying faithful easier.

Think about it. Lets say youve got a crush on a client, and youre honest with yourself about that. Thats not ideal, but its not an unworkable situation. Being aware of your own behavior will make it easier to recognize when things are becoming a problem. You can notice that maybe you have the urge to prolong one of your conversations beyond its professional uselessness. Or maybe you want to set up a dinner meeting, rather than a lunch meeting, because the idea of being alone with her in a dimly-lit place at night is exciting. And, because youre clear on whats going on  that youre entertaining a potentially dangerous attraction  you can shut it down easily. Not by severing your professional relationship, but by being sure that youre remaining impeccably well-mannered.

But if youre in a tizzy about your totally normal desires, youll create a much more difficult existence for yourself. Youll try to completely avoid people youre attracted to, which is personally and professionally unworkable, because there are lots of attractive people in the world. And when, inevitably, youre forced into contact with someone who makes you feel all fluttery on the inside, youll feel like youre in a state of perilous torment, both desirable and intolerable. That kind of interior state wont make you more faithful, dear reader. If anything, itll just breed resentment  resentment for yourself, and your partner, and the idea of monogamy itself. And those are the kinds of feelings thatll drive you to have an affair.

Relax. Its really the best thing you can do for you and your relationship.

Think you could use some dating help, too? Email the Dating Nerd at [email protected].
Best Gifts For Writers

Shopping For A Writer? These Nine Gifts Were Made For Them

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.

Christmas falls on a Monday this year! Take the guessing out of holiday shopping by checking out our lists of the best gifts for men and all of the best christmas presents for her, for all the inspiration you need.

Buying gifts for writers can be difficult. As a class of people, theyre generally homebodies, who couldnt care less about a fancy new kitchen tool, or a new pocketknife, or a new watch  the usual go-to presents. They sit around, stare at their laptops, and occasionally punch the keys. Theres not much equipment involved.

But that doesnt mean that writers dont like gifts. Far from it. They like to be spoiled as much as anyone. Its just that it isnt always clear what you should spoil them with. But dont despair. This list will give you the inside track on all the little tchotchkes and devices that will delight the nerdy wordsmiths in your life.

Lamy CP1 Matte Black Fountain Pen

Of course, writers tend to be precious about their office supplies. They have to take what little glamour their jobs afford them. This is most true of the fountain pen. Fountain pens are a pleasure to write with, because they require absolutely no manual pressure, allowing the writers thoughts to spill out by the paragraph without any wrist strain. But not all fountain pens are alike. They run from cheap $5 units youll find in your local Chinatown to extravagant luxury quills made of precious metals. The Lamy CP1 is an excellent middle ground. Its sleek, has a satisfying weight, writes beautifully, and looks like it was designed by German minimalists, because it is. Once they use the Lamy CP1, theyll never go back.

$42.80 at Amazon.com

Life A5 N33 Notebook

Writers will write on whatevers nearby, whether thats a napkin, a styrofoam cup, or one of those cheap Mead notebooks. Dont let your writer suffer under those conditions. Get them a good notebook. And of all the cool, hipster-y stationery out there, nothing beats Life notebooks. The paper is soft and absorbent. And their retro Japanese design means theyll always be in fashion. A bundle of these would be a great gift in and of itself. One would also be a great addition to a larger care package.

$15.99 at Amazon.com

Quarterlane 365

Reading is a necessary part of great writing. Youve got to take inspiration from (and/or steal tricks from) other writers, and be refreshed by absorbing descriptions of other environments and other lives. The Quarterlane 365 is a great way to make that happen. Quarterlane is a subscription service that packages a curated collection of books and magazines into attractive boxes. This is a great gift because the presentation aspect is taken care of by the professionals. And inside each one is a satisfying cocktail of literary prose. Moreover, itll probably include books that your writer wouldnt have read otherwise.

$95.00 at Quarterlanebooks.com

LSE Lighting Natural Full Spectrum Desk Lamp

Lets face it. Writers can get a little hermetic and slovenly. Its an unhealthy lifestyle. A lot of time indoors, at a desk, day and night, isnt good for anyone. And, while a little gloom makes for nice writing sometimes, depression is paralyzing and annoying. Get out in front of that with a good sunlamp, like this one, which is amazingly cheap compared to the classic Phillips lamps which will set you back a lot more. Its small, elegantly designed, and emits a cool, pleasant, therapeutic light, that will keep your writer healthy and happy. Itll never leave their desk, ever.

$35.49 at Amazon.com

Palomino Blackwing 602 Pencils

Okay, that seems a little expensive for a twelve-pack of pencils, right? But this is maybe the best pencil that money can buy. The Blackwing is legendary. Its a pencil that was a favorite of artists and writers in the first half of the 20th century, until it went off the market. And when it did, the writers and artists of the world collectively complained about it until another company, Palomino, resurrected the brand. For good reason: the Blackwing writes smoothly, leaving a perfectly dark line without being smudgy. Also, its distinctive design, with its unusual square eraser, is gorgeous. Using a Blackwing makes the painful process of revising a manuscript just that much better.

$22.95 at Amazon.com

Bartletts Familiar Quotations

If youre dealing with writers block, sometimes a great quotation can help out a lot. First of all, the right phrase can fill you with new, forceful thoughts that give you a new perspective on what youre working on. Secondly, reading beautifully assembled words can make you jealous of what more famous writers have done. And nothing gets writers going like a little jealousy. Bartletts is a great quotation collection. It spans a huge number of authors, and its organized chronologically, which is an awesome touch: if you want ancient wisdom, you can start at the front, and if you want more contemporary stuff, you can flip ahead. So, whether your writer is a fan of the Greeks or an aficionado of the jazz age, theyll find something to love.

$27.50 at Amazon.com

RELATED: The Best Gifts For Book-Lovers

Freewrite Smart Typewriter

Maybe your writer is really special to you, and money is essentially no object. If thats whats going on, the Freewrite Smart Typewriter is amazing. Basically, it solves a really common problem among todays scribes: that the Internet is super fun, and writing is hard work. Getting a good paragraph polished is much more difficult when Twitter is lurking just a tab away. The Freewrite solves all that. Its basically a smart version of the antique writing devices of the 20th century. While it still has that satisfying typewriter crunch, it also writes on a monitor, rather than with runny, messy ink. And everything you write is instantly archived on the cloud. Absolutely ideal for the procrastinator, or someone with a fetish for old-timey things. So, basically everyone.

$631.00 at Getfreewrite.com

Avantek White Noise Sound Machine

Heres another resource for the distractible. Although it may seem odd, a white noise machine will do wonders for an isolated workday. When youre trying to get the words just right, and you need total concentration, the noise of the city and the creak of your roommates feet can be absolutely infuriating. Drowning them out with gentle noise makes a huge difference. The Avantek is nice to look at, inexpensive, and offers multiple noise settings, so your writer can have total control over their sonic environment. This is for the writer who already supposedly has everything.

$37.99 at Amazon.com

Aerobie AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

Ive never met a good writer who isnt a coffee fanatic. Which can be problematic, because most single-cup coffee makers are terrible. Home espresso machines are expensive, loud, and wont make a better coffee than youll get at Starbucks. Pourover systems generally make a light-bodied brew that wont satisfy most. Lets not even talk about those Keurig pods. The only excellent coffee machine for the solitary is the AeroPress. Its basically an air pressure espresso machine: You pour in the boiling water and the ground beans, and use manual force to squeeze out the best cup of coffee youll ever make at home. The combination of quality and price is really mystifying. This is an affordable lifesaver. Change your writers life instantly.

$33.90 at Amazon.com

Related Readings:

Best Gifts For Boyfriends

Best Gifts For Your Wife

Best Gifts For Your Friends

Best Laptop Sleeves And Cases

AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service. To find out more, please read our complete terms of use.
By Jeff Mason and John Irish UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - France made a new plea on Monday for the United States to preserve the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and suggested its provisions expiring after a decade could be strengthened, as U.S. President Donald Trump again criticized the agreement as "deeply flawed." The pact between Tehran and six world powers, which calls for Iran to curb its nuclear program in return for relief from economic sanctions, is under threat as Trump must decide by Oct. 15 whether to certify Iran is keeping its end of the bargain. If Trump, who as recently as Thursday accused Iran of violating "the spirit" of the deal, chooses not to certify, the pact could unravel, possibly triggering a regional arms race. The Republican president, who has called the agreement struck under his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, "the worst deal ever negotiated," made no secret of his views during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. "The president believes that the JCPOA is deeply flawed, and he did share his views with President Macron about how he believes the deal is flawed," Brian Hook, director of policy planning at the U.S. State Department, told reporters. The pact is formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "The president was very candid with him about what he thinks are the shortcomings. ... He told him that it is under review and that they are taking a hard look at the Oct. 15th decision and more broadly how to fix the Iran deal," Hook said. Hook said the two also discussed an integrated strategy against Iran that would take into account what he described as Iran's support for terrorism, its ballistic missile program, its destabilization in the Middle East and other aggressions. Asked if he planned to stick with the pact, Trump earlier told reporters as he began a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday: "Youll be seeing very soon."Israeli officials have said changes Israel wants in the JCPOA include lengthening the 10-year freeze on Iran's nuclear development program or even making that suspension permanent and destroying centrifuges rather than just halting their operation. The deal was negotiated with Iran by the United States, Russia, China, Britain, Germany and France. The six will meet with Iran at the ministerial level on Wednesday. The prospect of Washington reneging on the agreement has worried some of the U.S. allies that helped negotiate it, especially as the world grapples with another nuclear crisis, North Koreas nuclear and ballistic missile development. "It is essential to maintain it to avoid proliferation. In this period when we see the risks with North Korea, we must maintain this line," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters. "France will try to convince President Trump of the pertinence of this choice (keeping the accord), even if work can be done to complement the accord after 2025," he said. If Trump does not certify that Iran is complying with the agreement, the U.S. Congress will have 60 days to decide whether to reimpose sanctions waived under the deal. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned on Sunday that Tehran would react strongly to any "wrong move" by Washington on the nuclear deal. DIVIDING WORLD POWERS Paris took one of the hardest lines against Tehran in the negotiations, but has been quick to restore trade ties and Macron has said repeatedly there is no alternative to the deal. French officials say Iran is respecting the JCPOA and that, were the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to say otherwise, a mechanism exists to reimpose sanctions. The IAEA is the body ensuring the accord is carried out, but the United States and Iran quarreled over how Tehran's nuclear activities should be policed at an IAEA meeting on Monday after a U.S. call last month for wider inspections. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson argued on Friday that Washington must consider the full threat it says Iran poses to the Middle East when crafting its new policy toward Tehran. A senior French diplomat underlined that the nuclear deal was achieved in large part because it was not linked to all the other grievances the United States may have had with Iran. With Europeans not on the same page as the Trump administration, Iranian officials say they have an opportunity to divide the P5+1 group that negotiated the deal with Iran. A senior Iranian diplomat and a former nuclear negotiator said he believed the Europeans had no intention of following Trump's overtly aggressive Iran policy. "They are wise. Look at the region. Crisis everywhere. From Iraq to Lebanon. Iran is a reliable regional partner for Europe, not only a trade partner but a political one as well," the diplomat said. "European powers have been committed to the deal. The IAEA has repeatedly confirmed Irans commitment to the deal. Trumps insistence on his hostile policy towards Iran will further deepen the gap among the P5+1 countries," the diplomat said. (Additional reporting by Parisa Hafezi in Ankara and Jeffrey Heller in Jerusalem; Writing by John Irish and Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Peter Cooney)
By Tom Allard and Agustinus Beo Da Costa JAKARTA (Reuters) - Students at an Islamic school that Indonesian authorities have linked to Islamic State returned home after villagers nearby demanded its closure, a school spokesman said on Sunday. A Reuters investigation published this month found at least eight staff and four students from the Ibnu Mas'ud school in Sukajaya, West Java either traveled or tried to travel to Syria to join the jihadist group between 2013 and 2016. Spokesman Jumadi told Reuters the school was empty after the local police chief said failure to comply with the closure demands would lead to a "big demonstration" by residents from five surrounding districts. The school denies it supports IS, or any other militant groups. It also says it does not advocate a violent or extreme version of Islam. Jumadi, who goes by only one name, said the police warning prompted the school to call parents to pick up the roughly 250 students. Police could not be immediately reached for comment. One of the four students, Hatf Saiful Rasul, left for Syria when he was 11 and died fighting with IS a year later in September 2016. His father, imprisoned militant Syaiful Anam, wrote that his son was inspired to travel by teachers and students of the school who had joined IS. During the school's decade of operation in Depok, outside Jakarta, and then at Sukajaya, at least another 18 people with links to it have been convicted or are now under arrest for militant plots and attacks in Indonesia, Reuters reported. They include former students, teachers, parents, founders and donors. During its investigation, Reuters reviewed court documents, deeds of entitlement and interrogation reports, and interviewed counter-terrorism police, donors and former militants. MEMORIZING THE KORAN School head Agus Purwoko told reporters last week it only taught pupils "how to read and memorize the Koran." "So Ibnu Mas'ud, in a way, is a childcare. There are also parents who send their kids here because they are divorcing, going to jail, or facing other problems." Sukajaya village chief Wahyudin Sumardi told Reuters in July that residents had been concerned about activities at the school for years. Local resentment ignited when a member of the school's staff allegedly burned a red and white banner in the village celebrating Indonesia's Independence Day on Aug. 17. Irate residents rallied outside the school, according to police, village chief Wahyudin and school spokesman Jumadi. Jumadi agreed the next day to move or close the school in a month. But school head Agus and some rights activists said he signed documents under duress and the school should not be closed on the basis of minor damage to patriotic bunting. "We asked the police to prevent the mass protesters taking the law into their own hands and to separate the activities of the children from allegations of involvement in terrorism," said Usman Hamid, director of Amnesty International Indonesia. Hamid said the school's closure would increase the students chances of being radicalized. (Additional Reporting by Jessica Damiana; editing by John Stonestreet)
United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has stated on CBS Face the Nation that the closing of the U.S. embassy in Cuba is under evaluation. This is in response to a letter from five U.S. Senators urging Tillerson to close the embassy following a serious of mysterious acoustic attacks on several Americans located in Cuba. Its the latest development in what has been the Trump Administrations change of course on the former President Barack Obamas directive to restore diplomatic relations between Cuba and the U.S..

At least 21 Americans in Cuba have been diagnosed with the onset of physical problems such as speech difficulty, hearing loss, headaches, and even concussions. After investigation by U.S. officials, it has been concluded the problems were caused by exposure to a high frequency, inaudible ultrasonic sound. It is not known whether this was engineered by the Cuban government or some other group. While the Cuban government has denied involvement with such an operation, the U.S. has stated it holds the Cuban government responsible for getting to the bottom of who is responsible. This past May, two Cuban diplomats were asked to leave the U.S. and it is widely believed it is related to these incidents.

These incidents have prompted five U.S. Senators to write to Tillerson urging him to close the embassy. These Senators include: Marco Rubio [R-Florida], Richard Burr [R-North Carolina], Tom Cotton [R-Arkansas], John Cornyn [R-Texas], and James Lankford [R-Oklahoma].

When asked about closing the U.S. embassy, Tillerson told Face the Nation, We have it under evaluation. Its a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered. Weve brought some of those people home. Its under review.

In 2015, the U.S. embassy in Cuba was re-opened after 54 years. The re-opening of the embassy was one of the things that occurred after former President Obama announced in 2014 he was taking steps to restore diplomatic relations with Cuba.

This past June, President Donald Trump said he was putting the brakes on several of Obamas directives on Cuba. At the time, there were no plans to close the U.S. embassy, but traveling to Cuba was made more restrictive. If the embassy closes again, it would remove the main diplomatic hub the U.S. has in Cuba and add another wrinkle into Americans visiting Cuba. It obviously would complicate the road ahead of ending the U.S. Embargo on Cuba.

Photo Credit: Cigar Coop
MONDAY, Sept. 18, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- A new European study finds that when the price of cigarettes rises, infant deaths decline.

The finding didn't surprise one U.S. expert in child health, because when fewer mothers can afford to smoke any longer -- or take up the habit -- their kids' health improves.

"The association between maternal smoking and infant mortality has been known for decades," said Dr. Michael Grosso, chair of pediatrics at Huntington Hospital, in Huntington, N.Y.

"Previous studies have identified strong associations with respiratory diseases in infancy, and the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) appears to be doubled in the setting of maternal tobacco use," he noted.

In the new research, a team led by Filippos Filippidis, of Imperial College London, tracked data on cigarette prices and infant deaths in 23 European Union countries between 2004 and 2014.

During that time, the infant death rate fell from 4.4 to 3.5 per 1,000 live births overall. Although cause-and-effect can't be confirmed from the study, the researchers noted that at the same time, cigarette prices underwent steady increases across Europe.

Digging further, the team determined that for each $1.18 U.S. (1 Euro) per-pack increase in the median cigarette price, there were 0.23 fewer deaths per 1,000 live births in the same year. There were also an additional 0.16 fewer deaths per 1,000 live births in the year after the price hike.

But there was one twist: As the price "gap" between cheaper and more heavily taxed brands of cigarettes grew wider, there was a slight uptick in infant mortality, Filippidis and colleagues found.

Overall, a 10 percent increase in the gap between median-priced and minimum-priced cigarettes was associated with 0.07 more deaths per 1,000 live births the following year, the findings showed.

According to the researchers, this suggests that as other cigarettes get too expensive, many female smokers switch to budget brands rather than quit.

And that suggests that "legislators should implement tobacco tax and price-control measures that eliminate budget cigarettes," the study authors concluded.

Patricia Folan is a nurse who directs the Center for Tobacco Control at Northwell Health in Great Neck, N.Y. She believes the new study highlights Big Tobacco's efforts to keep its customers.

"As tobacco control measures are implemented, the tobacco companies counter with strategies to undermine the positive results of these measures, such as the differential [cigarette] pricing strategies," Folan noted.

She agreed with the London researchers that legislators need to be aware of this, and be "prepared to respond to the tobacco industry strategies."

The study was published Sept. 18 in JAMA Pediatrics.

More information

The American Cancer Society offers a guide to quitting smoking.
MONDAY, Sept. 18, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- American seniors are getting healthier overall, but the well-educated, rich and white are seeing the greatest gains, a new study finds.

Researchers reviewed federal government data on more than 55,000 older adults. They found that between 2000 and 2014, there was a 14 percent increase in the rate of those who reported good health.

However, those with graduate degrees had the most improvement -- 56 more healthy people per thousand -- while the rate remained flat among those with only a high school diploma.

Rich seniors had the best rate of good health throughout the study period, with the rate increasing from 490 per 1,000 to 603 per 1,000.

Overall, 52 percent of older adults with good health had high incomes. Just 31 percent of those with poor health had high incomes.

Whites were more likely than blacks or Hispanics to have good health. The rate of good health among whites rose from 442 per 1,000 to 533 per 1,000 during the study. The rate of good health among blacks and Hispanics remained flat, but the rate did increase among other racial/ethnic groups.

Study author Matthew Davis said he was "amazed" at the obvious health disparities based on race, income and education.

"The widening health disparities is particularly striking because older Americans have access to health care [through Medicare]," said Davis, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan's School of Nursing.

"Policies have to extend beyond just getting people access to health care to get at what's driving disparities. The lack of improvement in health among all groups could imply that public health initiatives are leaving some people behind," he added in a university news release.

The study was published online Sept. 18 in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers resources on healthy aging.
Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

LinkedIn

Email

Telegram



Police arrested Mofor Ndong, the Bamenda-based publisher of the independent bi-monthly newspaper, Voice of the Voiceless, on February 9, 2017 in Buea, the capital of Cameroons English-speaking Southwest region, according to media reports.

Two other journalists  Guardian Posts bureau chief Amos Fofung, whose house Ndong was staying at, and Atia Tilarious Azohnwi, political editor of the Cameroonian newspaper, The Sun, were arrested a few hours after Ndong, The Sun reported.

Police in Cameroon detained Mofor Ndong for about eight months. (Credit withheld for security reasons)

According to The Suns statement, when the papers managing editor Wasso Norbert Binde and editor Elah Geoffrey Mbong travelled to Buea to demand that authorities release the three journalists on February 10, 2017, they said that Ndong had a punctured lip and injuries to his feet.

Cameroons presidents office and the official government spokesperson did not immediately respond to CPJs request for comment.

Ndong admitted possession of pamphlets, according to The Sun. He was charged on July 14, 2017 with terrorism, propagation of false information, and rebellion, according to reports. Under Cameroons anti-terror law, the charges carry a maximum sentence of the death penalty. During a hearing at a military court in Yaounde on August 22, 2017, Ndong was told that his trial was postponed until September 26, the journalist told CPJ.

On August 30, 2017, the office of President Paul Biya announced that Cameroon was ending criminal proceedings against 55 individuals detained during unrest in the countrys two English-speaking regions, including Ndong. At the time of his release. Ndong had spent more than eight months in jail. Three other journalists, including Azohnwi, were released under the same decree.

Police were allegedly monitoring Ndong at the time of his arrest because of an intelligence report that claimed the journalist planned to distribute pamphlets for the Southern Cameroons National Councila political organization banned in January by authorities, according to a statement by The Sun and news reports.

In an interview with CPJ after his release from jail, Ndong said that the pamphlets police questioned him about were on the liberation of Southern Cameroons. It contained no incitement to violence but only stipulated that there was no treaty between Southern Cameroons and La Republique Du Cameroon to be in a union. It urged Southern Cameroonians to be patient and wait for the UN to come and host their flag in Buea, he told CPJ.

Ndong told CPJ that police also questioned him about two articles in Voice of the Voiceless, titled Southern Cameroons Interim Government Advised Teachers and Lawyers to Suspend Strike Action and New Found Southern Cameroonian Leader Promises to Continue to Fight Until Victory is Achieved.

The latter related to an interview with a Bamenda-based radio host turned activist named Mancho Bibixy. Bibixy was among the leaders in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon, arrested on January 19, and charged under Cameroons 2014 terrorism law, according to The Guardian.

Police also questioned Ndong about another article, titled Southern Cameroons Denied Official Version of History, he said.

Fofung told CPJ that police found copies of Ndongs paper when they arrested him. The newspaper he was caught with was used by the police as evidence of him, Fofung, who was released without charge several months after his arrest, said.

Ndong started Voice of the Voiceless in June 2016 and had published 14 editions of the paper at the time of his arrest, the journalist told CPJ. An image of the front page of the second edition of the paper, published on the sites Facebook page, shows that it has a pro-independence line and includes reports and commentaries on calls for greater autonomy in Cameroons English-speaking regions.

Ndong said that before his February arrest, authorities had issued a warrant for his arrest over an article he had published. The journalist told CPJ that he evaded arrest after receiving a tip off from a person he identified only as a reliable source. The journalist said police did not mention the warrant when he was arrested in February.
Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

LinkedIn

Email

Telegram



September 18, 2017

His Excellency Petro Poroshenko,

President of Ukraine

Bankova st, 11

Kiev, Ukraine

Sent via e-mail and facsimile: [email protected]; [email protected];

+380 44 255 6161

Dear President Poroshenko,

We at the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an independent press freedom advocacy organization, would like to thank you for meeting with us in July to discuss the investigation into Pavel Sheremets death. We found your stated commitment to press freedom encouraging and appreciate the compassion you showed toward Sheremets family. However, we are deeply disappointed by the lack of progress in the investigation. Now, we feel compelled to write to express our deep concern about actions taken by Ukraines state security service (SBU) that pose a significant threat to press freedom in Ukraine.

In at least seven separate incidents documented by CPJ in the past two months the SBU has targeted newsrooms and journalists on accusations that appear politically motivated, and in retaliation for critical reporting.

In the latest instance on September 14, an SBU representative visited the Kiev offices of the independent news website Ukrainska Pravda, and delivered a letter to Editor-in-Chief Sevgil Musayeva demanding the outlet take down an article critical of the Ukrainian government, according to a CPJ interview with Musayeva. The article, which was originally published on January 24, described the governments failure to prioritize upgrading the countrys military defense capabilities.

In three separate cases, on August 14, 29, and 30, SBU agents expelled international journalists, and barred them from the country for three years. On August 14, the SBU detained Tamara Nersesyan, a special correspondent for the Russian state broadcaster VGTRK, in the street in Kiev, and brought her to the SBU headquarters where she was questioned for three hours about her reporting in eastern Ukraine. On August 29, the SBU announced it had barred Spanish freelance journalists Antonio Pampliega and Angel Sastre over their reporting on the conflict in the east, and for posting allegedly anti-Ukrainian messages on social media. On August 30, unknown people grabbed Russian journalist Anna Kurbatova on the street in the center of Kiev, and she was later deported.

The SBU said the same day that Kurbatova had been banned from entering Ukraine for three years for working as a propagandist, and for producing material harmful to Ukraines national interests. This is what will happen to everyone who dares to disgrace Ukraine, SBU spokesperson Olena Gitlyanska said on her Facebook page.

The SBU has also brought anti-state charges against freelance journalist Vasily Muravitsky, a reporter and columnist based in Zhytomyr, and has been holding him since August 1. If convicted, Muravitsky, who reported on politics, the annexation of Crimea, and the fighting in Donbass, faces up to 15 years in prison.

The website Strana has also come under SBU pressure. The SBU searched Stranas premises as well as the homes of at least two of its journalists on August 8, following an earlier SBU raid in June, and confiscated a flash drive from the sites editor-in-chief, Igor Guzhva. Guzhva is under investigation for allegedly disclosing state secrets; the SBU has also accused Strana of disclosing state secrets.

We also find security forces July 14 raid on the Kiev offices of Media Holding Vesti, which includes Radio Vesti, the newspaper Vesti, and the site Vesti-ukr.com, to be deeply troubling. Chief Military Prosecutor Anatoliy Matios led some 80 officers, outfitted with armor, facemasks, and machine guns, into the Vesti building in search of evidence in a fraud investigation. During the course of the raid, the radio stations broadcast was briefly knocked off the air, and officers questioned 30 journalists and searched their phones.

Authorities are dividing the press corps into those perceived as friendly to Ukraine, and those branded unpatriotic, a practice that counters your governments efforts to transform the country into a modern, European democracy. For example, a member of parliament last month accused Sergiy Tomilenko, head of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, of [acting] against the informational security of Ukraine by criticizing the raid on Strana.

The SBU has an important role in ensuring Ukraines national safety and security. However, it is essential that it refrain from harassing media outlets and targeting journalists in any way for their work.

We call on you, Your Excellency, to ensure that reporters can work freely, without fear of reprisal, and with the full protection their profession merits. Publically denouncing the recent SBU actions, and reaffirming your commitment to ensuring journalists safety would show your commitment to defending democratic institutions and European values in Ukraine.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and ongoing commitment to press freedom.

Sincerely,

Joel Simon

CPJ Executive Director

Cc list:

Vasyl Hrytsak, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine

Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission

Donald Tusk, President of the European Council

Antonio Tajani, President of the European Parliament

Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

Johannes Hahn, EU Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations

Stavros Lambrinidis, EU Special Representative for Human Rights

Hugues Mingarelli, Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine

Mykola Tochytskyi, Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU

Nils Muiznieks, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights

Harlem Desir, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media

Valeriy Chaly, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States

Marie Yovanovitch, U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine

Alan Rusbridger, Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, Member, CPJ Board of Directors
Intelligence wing of Sashastra Seema Bal launched

Published: September 18, 2017

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has launched full-fledged intelligence wing of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). SSB is paramilitary force that guards Indias borders with Bhutan and Nepal.

The intelligence wing will gather actionable information in a bid to enhance operational efficiency. It will have 650 field and staff agents to gather actionable information. SSBs intelligence wing personnel will be deployed on India-Nepal and India-Bhutan borders where there are no restrictions on movement of people on either side due to visa free regime.

Background

India shares 1,751 km-long border with Nepal and 699 km-long border with Bhutan. The border with Nepal touches Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim and border with Bhutan touches Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

India has visa free regime with both countries as border population on both the sides has strong regional, cultural and economic ties. Due to visa-free regime, there is trans-border movement of criminals and anti-national elements which pose major security challenge.

The intelligence wing of SSB will help to institutionalise a well-knit intelligence network of highest capability that can play important role in comprehensive border management. Based on intelligence SSB can undertake essential operations to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan.

WARB Application

The Ministry also launched Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) application to facilitate retire CAPFs and Assam Riffles personnel to get their grievances redressed, seek skill development, re-employment and other relevant and important information.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2017

Category: Defence Current Affairs

Topics: Border Management  Intelligence Wing  internal security  Ministry of Home Affairs  National  Sashastra Seema Bal

Latest E-Books
By PTI: Los Angeles, Sep 18 (PTI) "The Handmaids Tale" made a clean sweep in the drama series section at the 69th Primetime Emmy awards by taking home the trophies in the best drama series, actress, writing and directing categories.

The Hulu show based on the best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood, is set in Gilead, a totalitarian society in what used to be part of the United States. Gilead is ruled by a fundamentalist regime that treats women as property of the state, and is faced with environmental disasters and a plummeting birth rate.

advertisement

In a desperate attempt to repopulate a devastated world, the few remaining fertile women are forced into sexual servitude.

Elisabeth Moss, who essays the role of Offred in the show won her first best actress in drama series Emmy award for her portrayal of a woman determined to survive the terrifying world she lives in, and find the daughter that was taken from her.

Moss dropped an f-bomb as she walked up to the stage to receive her award, and then called her mother a "f***ing bada**" at the end of her speech. "You are brave and strong and smart..."

She also thanked Hulu and MGM, in addition to Atwood, who wrote the book on which the series is based. "Margaret Atwood, oh my gosh, thank you for what you did in 1958 and thank you for what you continue to do for all of us."

Another major win for the show was Ann Dowd in the best supporting actress category. The actor, who won her first Emmy award, plays Aunt Lydia and appears only in Offreds flashbacks.

While in tears, Dowd thanked author Atwood during her acceptance speech, as well as her family and representatives. But she also took a moment to thank the streaming service that released "The Handmaids Tale": "Theyre very lovely, Hulu," she said.

Rising-star director Reed Morano, who helmed the first three episodes of the show, became the first woman to win the Emmy for drama series directing in 22 years.

In her acceptance speech, Morano hailed Moss for her fearless performance in the adaptation of the dystopian novel.

"Lizzie is my ultimate inspiration," Morano said. "This is as much her as it is me."

The last female director to take the drama series directing Emmy was Mimi Leder in 1995 for the "ER" episode "Loves Labor Lost."

Bruce Miller of "The Handmaids Tale" also won the award for writing for a drama series.

"This Is Us" star Sterling K Brown made history by becoming the first African-American to win the best actor in drama series at the Emmys in 19 years.

advertisement

The last time a black actor won the lead actor in a drama series trophy, it was Andre Braugher for "Homicide", back in 1998.

Brown plays Randall, the black adopted son of the otherwise white Pearson family, who is on a mission to find his biological father and explore his racial identity.

"I just want to say Mr Braugher, whether at Stanford University or on this Emmy stage, it is my supreme honour to follow in your steps," Brown said, before pivoting to thanking his TV family. "Milo, Mandy, Justin, Chrissy ? you are the best white TV family that a brother has ever had. Better than Mr. Drummond, better then them white folks at Webster."

The best supporting actor award in the drama series went to John Lithgow for "The Crown". Lithgow won the trophy for his performance as Winston Churchill in the Netflix drama. The veteran actor has now won a total of six Emmys.

"I feel so lucky to have won this in the company of my fellow nominees. Some of you are my friends and former cast- mates," he said, PTI SHD SHD

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
PM Narendra Modi dedicates Sardar Sarovar Dam to nation

Published: September 18, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated interstate multi-purpose Sardar Sarovar Dam (Narmada dam project) at Kevadia, Gujarat to the nation on occasion of his 67th birthday.

Sardar Sarovar Dam is the highest dam ever built in India and second biggest concrete gravity dam in world in terms of volume after Grand Coulee Dam in US.

Key Facts

The Sardar Sarovar Dam project was vision of Indias first deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to arrest excess flow of water from Narmada River into Arabian Sea. The foundation stone of project was laid out by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on April 5, 1961.

The dam has length of 1.2 kms and depth of 163 metres. Its height was recently raised to 138.68 metres, enabling usable water storage of 4.73 million acre feet (MAF). Four Indian states, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharastra and Rajasthan will receive water and electricity supplied from the dam.

It will irrigate more than 22,000 hectares of land, mostly from drought prone areas of Kutch and Saurashtra. Moreover it will provide drinking water to four crore people from Gujarat. About 57% of electricity produced from dam goes to Maharashtra, while Madhya Pradesh gets 27% and Gujarat gets 16%.

The project was executed by Gujarat governments Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Ltd (SSNL). It had faced many hurdles including inter-state disputes, land acquisition and environmental problems and rehabilitation and resettlement of those displaced by the project. World Bank also had refused to fund it on grounds of environmental damage

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2017

Topics: Narendra Modi  Narmada River  Sardar Sarovar Dam  States

Latest E-Books
Suspicion is hanging over the prison guards who allowed them to escape.





Vietnamese police have arrested 2 death row convicts who escaped from a Hanoi prison a week ago.





Nguyen Van Tinh, 28, was arrested in Hoa Binh Province which neighbors the capital in the early hours of Sunday.





His accomplice Le Van Tho, 37, was arrested 8 hours earlier while taking a taxi in Hai Duong Province, around an hour's drive from Hanoi.





Tinh was sentenced to death in April for heroin trafficking. Tho received the death penalty in May for drug trafficking, murder and fraud. Both have appealed their sentences.





They shared a cell in Thanh Oai District on the outskirts of Hanoi which they broke out of on the night of September 10 during heavy downpours.





An investigation found they managed to unlock their cuffs, make a hole in the wall of their cell and climb out of the prison using rope.





They took a motorbike from a relative in Hanoi and fled the city, and were first spotted in Ha Long 3 nights later.





Vietnam's top prosecutors have ordered an investigation into the role the prison guards played in the breakout.



Vietnam suspends prison staff in wake of death row breakout

The 2 inmates spent months digging their way out with the guards apparently oblivious.





The Ministry of Public Security has suspended 13 guards and supervisors at a prison in Hanoi for letting 2 inmates who were cuffed break out a week ago.





They have been held accountable for the escape of death row inmates Le Van Tho, 37, and Nguyen Van Tinh, 28, who shared a cell equipped with surveillance cameras at T16 prison in Thanh Oai District on the capital's outskirts. Both were recaptured in nearby provinces over the weekend after around 400 police officers were deployed.





Tinh was sentenced to death in April for heroin trafficking. Tho got the death penalty in May for drug trafficking, murder and fraud.





An investigation has found that Tho did most of the work by hiding a small piece of iron in his anus and using it to dig a hole in the wall of their cell over the space of several months. The 2 disguised the hole using rice mixed with toothpaste, they said.





Tho is also a professional locksmith and was able to uncuff himself before helping Tinh. They climbed out of the prison using a rope.





Investigators from the country's top prosecution agency have already opened a criminal investigation, accusing guards and supervisors at the prison of "neglecting responsibility resulting in the escape of detainees", which carries up to 10 years in jail.





In October 2001, 13 officers and guards at a prison in Hanoi also received punishments ranging from official warnings to demotions after 2 death row inmates escaped. One was recaptured after a week and the other after 17 days.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

vnexpress.net, Sept. 17, 2017Source: vnexpress.net, Sept. 18, 2017
In Pakistan, a poem sent over WhatsApp can prove deadly.





On September 14, a court in Gujrat district, Punjab province sentenced to death Nadeem James, a 35-year-old Christian, for sending a poem to a friend that was deemed insulting to Islam. James denies ever having sent the message.





James isnt the only person in Pakistan condemned to death over a post on social media.





In June, Taimoor Raza, 30, was sentenced to death by an anti-terrorism court in Bahawalpur district for allegedly making blasphemous comments during a Facebook chat with someone who eventually turned out be a counterterrorism agent on the prowl.





In April 2014, a Christian couple were sentenced to death for sending a blasphemous text message to a local cleric. The couple claimed that they were illiterate and could not have sent a blasphemous text in English.





Junaid Hafeez, a university professor, has been imprisoned for nearly four years facing a possible death sentence for accusations of sharing blasphemous material online. Hafeezs lawyer was murdered in May 2014.





The abusive nature of Pakistans blasphemy laws is not new. However, the increasing use of blasphemy provisions to jail and prosecute people for comments made on social media is a dangerous escalation. Many officials are using religious rhetoric and whipping up tensions over the issue of blasphemy.





In March, the then-interior minister described blasphemers as enemies of humanity and expressed the intention of taking the matter of blasphemers to a logical conclusion.





Although no one has yet been executed for the crime, Pakistans penal code makes the death penalty mandatory in blasphemy convictions. At least 19 people remain on death row.





Even accusations of blasphemy can be deadly. Since 1990, at least 60 people accused of blasphemy have been murdered.





Religious minorities are significantly overrepresented among those facing blasphemy charges, and are often victimized due to personal disputes.





A death sentence for alleged blasphemy online in a country with low literacy rates and lack of familiarity with modern technology is an invitation for a witch-hunt.





Pakistan needs to amend and ultimately repeal its blasphemy laws; not extend their scope to digital speech.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde
An Irish student who was a juvenile when he was arrested has been acquitted at an Egyptian mass trial, four years after his arrest at a protest.





Ibrahim Halawa from Dublin, was 17 when he was arrested with hundreds of other people in 2013, as part of a crackdown on protests in Egypt.





He has been held in pre-trial detention since then, and has reported being regularly tortured.





Ibrahim was tried as an adult alongside 493 other people, despite having been a juvenile at the time of his arrest.





The mass trial  one of several to have taken place since 2013  was frequently postponed in the last four years. Hearings of the trial were criticised for failing to meet basic standards.





The Irish government has said it has received assurances from Egypts President Sisi that Ibrahim will be returned to Ireland following the verdict.





Maya Foa, Director of human rights organization Reprieve, which is assisting Ibrahim, said:





Todays verdict is long overdue. Ibrahim was arrested as a child for the 'crime' of attending a protest, tortured, and tried facing the death penalty alongside adults in an unfair mass trial. For years, these court proceedings  which were designed to punish political dissent  made a mockery of justice. The Irish government and others, like the UK, must now not rest until Ibrahim is at home in Ireland. The wider international community  including the EU, which helps to fund Egypts courts  must also call urgently on Egypt to end its use of patently illegal mass trials.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

Reprieve, September 18, 2017
In its 201-year history, Indiana has used 3 methods of execution. Hanging was the primary method until 1913, followed by electrocution.





In 1995, the Department of Correction began using lethal injection - a protocol soon to be reviewed by the Indiana Supreme Court.





Vacating a ruling by the Indiana Court of Appeals, the state's highest court rightly will take up the question of whether the department has overstepped its authority in changing its procedures for carrying out the death penalty.





The Supreme Court will independently review facts in a case challenging the Department of Correction's 2014 decision to use a new 3-drug combination in lethal injections.





A lawsuit filed by a death row inmate argues the DOC can't change its execution protocol without public notice or comment. The appeals court agreed in a unanimous ruling and effectively halted executions in the state. They are likely on hold while the Supreme Court reviews the case.





12 men are currently on death row in Indiana, and 1 woman is being held in Ohio under Indiana's death penalty law.





No executions are scheduled due to prior court rulings or pending appeals. Joseph Corcoran, sentenced to death in 1999 for killing 4 people in a house on Bayer Avenue, is the only Allen County inmate. Diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, he has exhausted his appeals.





The appeals court decision challenging the Department of Correction was a victory for Roy Ward and other death row prisoners who argue they should not be executed with experimental drugs.





The department unilaterally decided 2 years ago to use a 3-drug combination of the barbiturate methohexital, followed by pancuronium bromide, a paralytic, followed by potassium chloride to stop the prisoner's heart. The combination allegedly has not been used in any other execution in the United States.





The department claimed authority to change its lethal injection procedure as an internal policy, but the appeals court agreed with the plaintiff that the decision was an administrative rule with the effect of law, which must be adopted under the guidelines of the Indiana Administrative Rules and Procedure Act.





"(T)he public has a right to know what unelected bureaucrats at state agencies are doing," said attorney David Frank, who represented Ward before the appeals court. The decision doesn't mean Indiana cannot carry out executions, but it brings what the state is doing "out of the shadows" and holds state officials accountable, he said.





It is not known whether the state has a sufficient supply of each drug to carry out an execution. The Indiana General Assembly, in the biennial budget bill, authorized Gov. Eric Holcomb and the department to grant anonymity to drugmakers that agree to supply the drugs.





A nationwide shortage exists because pharmaceutical companies, under pressure from death-penalty opponents, are refusing to sell their drugs for execution purposes.





A federal appeals court cleared the way earlier this year for the state of Ohio to use a 3-drug mixture in lethal injections, although death-penalty opponents have said they will ask the Supreme Court to review that decision.





The late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun famously criticized the process of administering the death penalty as tinkering with "the machinery of death." The decision before Indiana's highest court might well amount to tinkering but - as the law of the land here and in 30 other states - it deserves solemn and serious consideration.





 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

Journal-Gazette, Editorial, September 13, 2017
Regardless of how one might feel about the death penalty, no one should be more or less culpable because of the color of their skin.





I am the executive director of the Arkansas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. From my childhood in the Arkansas Delta, to higher education in Walmart-dominated Northwest Arkansas, to New York and Los Angeles as a model and television personality, and finally to Little Rock, Arkansas, where I attended law school and currently live and work.





Justice in the Arkansas Delta is different from justice in Fayetteville. Racial disparity is part of the culture in Arkansas. See Little Rock Central High School. See the Robert E. Lee/Martin Luther King Jr. joint holidays. And the racial disparity in the Arkansas criminal justice system is one of the most alarming manifestations of this inequitable treatment.





In Arkansas, African-Americans make up roughly 17 % of the population, but African-Americans account for a whopping 42.2 % of the prison population. Disparities in capital punishment are more staggering. Arkansas has completed 200 executions since 1913, and 70 % (140 individuals) of those executed were African-American. Currently, African-Americans and Latinos make up 50 % of Arkansas' death row.





A recent study by the University of Arkansas at Little Rock's William H. Bowen Law School shows that for the charge of capital murder, African Americans are over 2 times more likely to receive the death penalty than their white counterparts. The study shows that whites charged with capital murder are more likely to receive the more lenient sentence of life without the possibility of parole. When it comes to life and death in the Arkansas criminal justice system, race matters.





Implicit racial bias





While some attribute this obvious disparity in treatment to overt racism, "Racial Disparities in the Arkansas Criminal Justice System Steering Committee" points to a less-talked-about culprit: implicit racial bias. Implicit racial bias is something all of us have. We all hold implicit racial biases, and unlike explicit racism, these implicit biases are activated without our awareness or intentional control. These implicit biases are shaped by: the environments we are raised in, media, and even our circles of influence. Implicit biases can help shape decisions about who we date or socialize with, where we chose to live and how we perceive the actions of others.





The first step to eliminating these biases from our criminal justice system is to identify that we have them. Harvard University has developed an implicit association test that helps to identify which implicit biases one holds. "Racial Disparities in the Arkansas Criminal Justice System Steering Committee" recommends that all players in the criminal justice system (prosecutors, judges, police officers, etc.) take the implicit association test and undergo implicit bias training to learn how to deal with personal biases. The steering committee also recommends juries be trained on implicit bias and given jury instructions on how to deal with implicit bias.





Regardless of how one might feel about the death penalty, no one should be more or less culpable because of the color of their skin. It is time for Arkansas to place a moratorium on the death penalty until we can ensure racial bias has no place in our system of capital punishment or our criminal justice system as a whole.





Source: Huffington Post, Furonda Brasfield, Sept. 15, 2017. Furonda Brasfield is the Executive Director of the Arkansas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde
18th Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler's office is the subject of prosecutorial misconduct allegations.





A judge today denied a 5-year appeal by Sir Mario Owens , a man convicted for the 2005 witness killing of a state lawmaker's son and his fiancee.





Today's order leaves Owens, 32, on death row along with 2 other men: his co-defendant, Robert Ray, and Nathan Dunlap, the convicted Chuck E. Cheese's shooter to whom Gov. John Hickenlooper granted a temporary reprieve in 2013.





Owens, 32, appealed his conviction and sentence largely on a long list of claims that prosecutors - who paid informant witnesses to testify against him - failed to turn over to the defense team key evidence that, if heard at trial, his lawyers argued may have changed the jury's verdict. The appeal accused the DA's office of "cumulative error" and "outrageous governmental conduct" in the case.





In today's order denying Owens' appeal, District Judge Christopher Munch wrote, "The court concludes that Owens received a fair trial - one whose result is reliable. He also received a fair sentencing hearing - one whose result was constitutionally obtained, justified in law, and is rationally based upon the evidence."





As of this posting, The Independent is awaiting comments from 18th Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler and from state Sen. Rhonda Fields, whose son, Javad Marshall-Fields and his fiancee, Vivian Wolfe, were fatally gunned down soon before Marshall-Fields was expected to testify against Robert Ray in the investigation of another murder a year earlier.





Owens' lead defense attorney, Jim Castle, disagrees with the court's conclusion that none of the misconduct claims made in the case matter and that they "can be tolerated in Colorado in any case, never mind a capital one."





"This is a sad day for Owens, his family and the Colorado criminal justice system," he said.





The case was prosecuted for 6 years under former 18th Judicial District Attorney Carol Chambers. Brauchler, her elected successor, has led the office for the last 5 years as it has continued rallying to preserve Owens' and other death sentences against a long list of appeals claims. Brauchler, a Republican who has made a name for himself as a death penalty prosecutor, is running for governor.





There is no definitive physical evidence, no confession, and no eyewitnesses who identified Owens in a case prosecutors built almost entirely on the testimony of informant witnesses to whom the DA's office gave plea bargains, funds, or both in return for their cooperation against Owens.





Among the charges upon which the appeal was based is the office's failure to disclose thousands of dollars in payments it made to informant witnesses. One of those witnesses was promised and later given a district attorney's office car. Some were given gift cards for local businesses. One received $3,400 in benefits, including cash for Christmas presents in the months prior to testifying on behalf of the prosecution.





The defense cited the prosecution's failure to disclose other incentives given to witnesses in exchange for their testimony. If he didn't cooperate, court records show, 1 of the main witnesses was threatened with being charged for the murders Owens was accused of and with receiving 2 life sentences. Another witness, according to the records, received a suspension of his jail sentence on the condition that he help prosecutors in Owens' case. People working for the prosecution would appear at informant witnesses' court hearings and ask for lesser sentences on the condition that they testify against Owens, the records indicate. Records also show that informants who had been convicted of crimes were allowed to violate probation and commit future crimes without consequences as long as they cooperated.





The appeal argued that by failing to disclose these deals before trial, the prosecution rendered Owens' defense lawyers unable to cast doubt on those witnesses' testimonies and put their credibility in dispute. In doing so, the argument goes, Owens was denied a fair trial.





The rules of criminal conduct say that withholding evidence that could have swayed a jury against a guilty verdict amounts to prosecutorial misconduct. Under Colorado's death penalty law, it's one of several reasons to disqualify a case for death penalty eligibility.





Brauchler's office didn't dispute that it withheld much of the evidence Owens' lawyers listed in their appeal. Nor did the judge. Instead, both asserted that the evidence that was withheld wouldn't have changed jurors' guilty verdict or death penalty decision.





Owens' lawyers long have countered that the ends don't justify the means. Prosecutors' hands need to be clean, the say, especially when a life is at stake.





The case has made headlines because of a string of court orders shrouding much of the documentation and evidence in secrecy. The court file remained sealed and all parties gagged from speaking about it until 2013, 7 years after it was filed. Exhibits in the case remain sealed to this day, fueling continued concerns about a lack of transparency.





Most of the claims in Owens' appeal applied to decisions made before Brauchler won office in 2012 when Chambers was being term-limited out. Brauchler decided to keep the same lead prosecutors on the case, and, under his watch, the office continued a pattern of not disclosing evidence. In February 2015, more than 2 years after he took over, one of his prosecutors disclosed that there was a set of secret "witness protection files" that, even at that point, hadn't been given to the defense. The judge at that time, Gerald Rafferty, ordered the DAs to turn over hundreds of pages of documents, which revealed even more payments the prosecutors Brauchler kept on the case made to prosecution witnesses.





In court last year, Brauchler's team strained to justify having knowingly sat on the secret evidence by saying they were trying to protect witnesses.





"Well, I will make the record that this is in regards to witness protection and the witness protection statute and more is not better under the witness protection statute, in fact, it's confidential and -," argued 1 of Brauchler's prosecutors, David Jones, before Judge Rafferty interrupted him.





"I would strongly disagree with that, Mr. Jones, strongly disagree in a capital case," the judge said. "You can expect that in my order, sir. Let's move on."





Jones since has left the DA's office but Brauchler continues keeping the 2 lawyers who handled the case when the materials were kept hidden as the lead prosecutors.





After reading an earlier version of this story this morning, Brauchler texted to say, "It's not my office being accused. It's (t)he DA's office prior to me being DA." The Independent responded by writing, "The claims include the 'secret witness files' revealed last year, George. ... They were revealed 3 years after you took office. And your folks seemed to have known they hadn't been turned over."





To that, Brauchler responded this morning: "Good grief. I now own everything that happened or didn't happen under my predecessor?"





In one of the Owens cases's oddest twists, Judge Rafferty - who presided for 11 years over both the trial and appeal - was preparing to issue his ruling when he was fired last year for what Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Nancy Rice called a breach of contract on a personnel matter. Her office made the unusual move of sending out a news release about Rafferty's removal. Rafferty argued that he did not breach his contract and emails provided by the state back up his assertion.





For years, Rafferty had shown an interest in what he once ruled was prosecutors' "deliberate choice" not to disclose evidence favorable to Owens. He granted 37 weeks of hearings on most of the claims the defense made in its appeal. He held hearings on evidence exhibits and heard dozens of witnesses testify over 2 1/2 years. He reviewed the 22,700-page court file, the 28,288-page trial transcript and the 27,836-page post-conviction record, plus 1,889 exhibits from trial and 880 exhibits from the appeals phase. And he spent 11 months working on his written decision.





The timing and manner of Rafferty's abrupt removal raised questions in Colorado's criminal defense and civil rights communities about whether state officials used the contract dispute as a pretense to fire the judge in order to keep the Owens case from being retried.





Defense efforts to uncover what led to Rafferty's ouster have been rebuffed by the judicial branch and by Judge Munch, who was appointed to take over the case. Munch handed down his order today without having seen or heard from a single witness about errors in the capital proceedings.





As she waiting this morning to hear if Owens' death sentence will hold, Sen. Fields said that she has never seen any wrongdoing by either the prosecution or defense: "I saw both sides working very diligently to seek justice on behalf of my son and his fiancee."





Owens lives in solitary confinement at Colorado State Penitentiary, the supermax in Canon City. He learned of his defeat today from the lawyers who've been appealing his death sentence for more than 9 years. They wanted to break the news to him in person.





Many of the issues around which Owens' appeal pivot also are at the root of an ongoing appeal by Ray, his co-defendant. Unlike Munch, the judge in Ray's appeal has conducted evidentiary hearings into his claims, the majority of which complain of the same errors listed by Owens' lawyers.





In a previous capital prosecution of 2 defendants in another murder case, there were similar claims of misconduct by the 18th Judicial District Attorney's office, including the suppression of key evidence. Armed with that previously hidden evidence, 1 of those defendants, Alejandro Perez, was quickly acquitted by a jury. The judge presiding over the case against Perez's codefendant, David Bueno, vacated his murder conviction. That ruling is now on appeal by the Colorado Supreme Court.





Earlier this summer, Jack Roth, one of state Attorney General Cynthia Coffman's top lawyers on death penalty cases, lost his job after having made public comments that overstepped his authority to seek death in a Crowley County murder prosecution.





The similarities between Colorado's three death row inmates are striking. In a state with a 4 % African-American population, each is black. Each grew up poor. Each attended the same school, Overland High in Aurora. And each was prosecuted in the 18th Judicial District, which has pursued death in far more cases than any other district in Colorado. Under Chambers' control, the office handed out Christmas bonuses to prosecutors who took on capital cases - a practice Owens' lawyers have claimed amounted to an improper bounty system.





Several groups, including the NAACP and the American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado, have taken issue with how the death penalty is sought in the state. They've cited a study showing strong biases against ethnic minorities. Nationally, groups working to abolish the death penalty and end wrongful convictions are starting to focus on the kinds of prosecutorial misconduct claimed in Owens' appeal.





Gov. Hickenlooper won office in 2010 as a professed death penalty proponent. When announcing in 2013 that Dunlap wouldn't die under his watch, he said he was reconsidering his position. The governor cited racial disparities explicitly and alluded more subtly to prosecutorial integrity in expressing concerns that current death penalty practices could undermine trust in state institutions. Hickenlooper gave Dunlap a reprieve while indicating that if the state were to carry out executions, it should do so when the system operates flawlessly. Hickenlooper called for a "statewide discussion" about Colorado's death penalty practices, given concerns about how the death penalty is meted out in the state.





4 years later, that conversation has not taken place even - as the Owens case shows - questions keep surfacing about capital prosecutions. The governor's office hasn't said why the policy discussion hasn't started. Colorado's moderate Democratic governor is eyeing a presidential bid in 2020 after he's term-limited out of office.





Brauchler, in the meantime, is one of several Republicans who've launched campaigns to fill Hickenlooper's seat in the 2018 gubernatorial election. The DA built his public profile personally prosecuting Aurora theater shooter James Holmes, against whom he won a conviction but not the death sentence he sought. Brauchler has gone on to become the state's loudest death penalty proponent.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

coloradoindependent.com, Sept. 15, 2017


The U.S. and Kuwait have agreed to a number of initiatives that will deepen the ties between the two nations through a process known as the Strategic Dialogue.

This includes enhancing Kuwaits military capabilities by providing F/A-18s. In addition, FBI Director Chris Wray and Minister of Interior Al Jarrah Al Sabah Khaled signed a counterterrorism information-sharing arrangement. And Customs and Border Patrol and the Kuwait director general of customs signed an agreement to share customs information.

The U.S. and Kuwait signed two additional memorandums of understanding. The first is an education MOU between the Department of State and Kuwaits ministries of education and of higher education. This MOU will help prepare Kuwaiti students to study in the United States and encourages relations between U.S. and Kuwaiti institutions of higher education. The second MOU between the Department of Commerce, SelectUSA, and Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority will encourage additional bilateral investments in both countries.

The U.S. recognizes Kuwaits efforts to help bring about a settlement to the Gulf Cooperation Council, or GCC, dispute, including Egypt. The United States and Kuwait both recognize the importance of GCC unity to meet the challenges of the region, not least of which are the threats from Iran, said Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. "We appreciate that Kuwait hosts U.S. military facilities and makes significant contributions to Americas initiatives directed at Kuwaiti and regional security. We are pleased that we are increasing our security cooperation and information sharing to prevent threats we both face," said Mr. Tillerson.

The United States also appreciates Kuwaits leadership on humanitarian assistance, which helps stabilize the region. In recent years, Kuwait has provided more than $9 billion in humanitarian support in Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon. Kuwait is the second largest single-country donor to these efforts worldwide after the United States.

Secretary Tillerson said, "We look forward to implementing the new agreements and strengthening our partnership for years to come."
Abba The Roof Terrace in Gijon.

As the summer draws to a close, theres still time for a trip to a few of these rooftop terraces, which afford unbeatable views of nine Spanish cities.

Hotel Room Mate Larios' terrace in Malaga.

Room Mate Larios (Malaga)

The top-floor terrace of the Hotel Room Mate Larios is a viewpoint with panoramic views of the city center of Malaga, on the southern coast of Spain. Open weekends year round, it is not only one of the citys hot spots for a drink, but also a great place to watch the sunset and the city light up, as it is open until 2am.

View from the Terrace 270 in Valencia

Barcelo Valencia Hotels Terrace 270 (Valencia)

Its name, 270, refers to its panoramic views of the skyline of the Mediterranean coastal city. Its 140 square meters in the shape of an L sit on the 10th floor of the modern Barcelo Valencia Hotel, which stands in front of the City of Arts and Sciences. Its decor is minimalist and its open all year to the general public, not just hotel guests.

View from the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca

The cathedral terraces (Palma de Mallorca)

Until the end of September, the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca opens its terraces for a one-hour guided tour where you can see the city from a new perspective. The tour  which is not suitable for children under 11 years old or people with cardio-respiratory problems  starts at the Almoina entrance where you will ascend the 215-step spiral staircase to the highest point of the temple. You will get great views of the ornate features of Gothic architecture, including the flying buttresses and the rose window.

Rooftop at the EME Hotel

EME Rooftop (Seville)

The rooftop of the EME hotel, in the heart of Seville, is known for its cosmopolitan and sophisticated style. It contrasts with its direct views to the most beautiful part of the historic Andalusian city in the south of Spain, the cathedral and its bell tower. Enjoy music while sampling its famous cocktails.

Benito Rooftop Bar at night

Benito Rooftop Bar (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria)

If its a cocktail youre looking for, look no further than the Benito Rooftop Bar. In 2014, it was named the best cocktail bar in Spain. This open-air terrace is situated on top of the Monopol Shopping Center in Vegueta, the historic district of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, a city on one of the largest of the Canary Islands, an archipelago off the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Aside from drinks, it has one of the best views of the city.

Rooftop at the CaixaForum building in Zaragoza

Cafeteria of the CaixaForum (Zaragoza)

Topping the avant-garde CaixaForum Zaragoza building, the cultural and social center of the Obra Social La Caixa, is a cafeteria and restaurant with a terrace bar overlooking the Ebro River and the grounds that hosted Expo Zaragoza in 2008. Open year round in the capital city of the northeastern Aragon region, it has a menu of the day that is usually inspired by the exhibition on display in the cultural center below.

Sunset at Skyline in Vigo

Skyline at the Gran Hotel Nagari Boutique & Spa (Vigo)

In the evening, the rooftop pool in the spa area of the Gran Hotel Nagari Boutique & Spa, in Vigo, a city in northwestern Spain, is transformed into the modern Skyline terrace bar. The exclusive and elegant space trades its spa treatments for cocktails and chill-out music. Surrounded by magnificent nighttime views of the Vigo Ria estuary and the Cies Islands in the background, the bar is open all year.

Terrace of the Gran Hotel Domine in Bilbao

Gran Hotel Domine (Bilbao)

It is said that the best time to visit the terrace on the seventh floor of the Gran Hotel Domine is at sunset, so you can watch the colors of the sky reflected in the incredible architecture that is the Guggenheim Museum nearby. This terrace, in the northern coastal city of Bilbao, is also within walking distance of the Iberdrola Tower and the University of Deusto. It is open from Monday to Sunday until September 21 and during weekends for the rest of September and October.

Views from Abba The Roof Terrace in Gijon

Abba The Roof Terrace (Gijon)

The Abba Playa Gijon Hotels prime location on the beachfront of Gijon, a northern coastal city in the Asturas region, is responsible for its incredible views of the sandy shore, the Bay of San Lorenzo, and the historic district of Cimadevilla. The Roof Terrace is open every Sunday in September and October. Enjoy live music while you sip on delicious drinks with peaceful ocean view.

English version by Debora Almeida.
Regional premier Carles Puigdemont (r) at the opening of the Catalan government delegation in Denmark.

The Spanish government has instructed its more than 120 ambassadors abroad to reach out to the media and do a better job of explaining the situation in Catalonia, where separatist officials are planning to hold an independence referendum on October 1 despite court rulings terming it illegal.

The Catalan conflict has made headlines across the world in recent months and most particularly in recent weeks

The Mariano Rajoy administration admits that it is losing the communication battle following a brutal offensive by pro-secession activists to sell their cause to the foreign media.

Madrid is less worried about the possibility that foreign governments might accept the October 1 vote as legal or binding. Rajoy, of the Popular Party (PP), on Friday expressed confidence that organizers of the ballot have no institutional backing outside Spains borders  not by national governments, not even by the United Nations.

But Spanish officials feel that many foreign news organizations, including a few very influential ones, have been mostly exposed to Catalan nationalists side of the story, and that this is being reflected in their coverage.

Spains main message  that secession and a unilaterally declared referendum are both unconstitutional and that the government thus has a legal obligation to halt them  has failed to take hold.

The Catalan governments media outreach strategy is nothing new. For years, it has devoted extensive human and financial resources to putting out its message, appointing foreign affairs representatives, sponsoring foreign cultural events and targeting foreign correspondents in Spain.

Spanish officials say that international reporting on the issue occasionally includes erroneous or inaccurate statements

The Catalan conflict has made headlines across the world in recent months and most particularly in recent weeks, which have seen an accumulation of momentous events: the governing separatist coalition used its slim majority to ram two controversial pieces of legislation through the regional parliament in a procedure that skipped regular legal safeguards; Spanish prosecutors placed all Catalan mayors who pledged support for the referendum under investigation and threatened them with arrest; the Civil Guard was sent out to confiscate ballot-related material; and Catalan officials promised to ignore all court injunctions and go ahead with their vote regardless.

The escalating confrontation between Madrid and Barcelona has been covered by The New York Times, The Financial Times, The Washington Post, Le Monde and many others. Some of those news organizations have run editorials backing a negotiated solution to the crisis  an option that the Rajoy administration no longer sees feasible given the separatists unilateral declaration of a set date for their ballot.

But Spanish officials say that international reporting on the issue occasionally includes erroneous or inaccurate statements, and that when they have approached the news organization about publishing a correction, their recommendations have been largely ignored.

In July, Foreign Minister Alfonso Dastis met with the Op-Ed chief at The New York Times after this newspaper ran a story and an editorial that Spain found to be based on poor facts. Embassy sources say that apologies were issued. The Spanish ambassador to Washington, Pedro Morenes, sent in an article of his own, which was cut down and published as a letter to the editor. In it, Morenes described himself as shocked by the lack of objectivity demonstrated in your newspaper, and the flagrant omission of facts that skews the reality of the situation.

Meanwhile, Catalan officials have met with Madrid-based correspondents and with US lobbies with a view to getting their message out. The central government says that Catalan authorities have spent a significant amount of money on this international offensive, although it provided no documentary evidence to back up this claim.

With just two weeks to go before the planned referendum, the Spanish government has sent out a clear message to its own representatives abroad to reinforce their presence in the international media, and to do a better job of explaining and observing. Officials are being encouraged to multiply their own media presence.

English version by Susana Urra.
Intelligence agencies have warned that Rohingya Muslims, who are fleeing Myanmar, could enter India with the help of professional traffickers who could use sea routes to sneak them into the country.

Owing to largescale migration since 2012, thousands of Rohingyas have been living in Assam, WB, Jammu, UP and Delhi camps.

By Ajit Kumar Dubey: With the security tightened along India-Myanmar border, intelligence agencies have warned that the Rohingyas may use sea routes to sneak into the country with the help of professional traffickers.

Rohingya Muslims have been fleeing Myanmar since 2012 following persecution by state agencies and their feud with local Buddhist population. India too has been affected with the largescale migration, with about 40,000 Rohingyas living at camps and shanties in Assam, West Bengal, Jammu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.

advertisement

"The Rohingiyas are desperate to sneak into Indian areas such as Bengal. And organised traffickers are likely to use sea routes from Myanmar and Bangladesh to push them into India," senior intelligence officials told Mail Today. "All security agencies concerned have to remain guarded against any such attempt."

The officials said the traffickers involved with the Rohingiyas may use their experience in the Mediterranean where they used large boats and high-speed rafts to send refugees fleeing Syria into Europe in large numbers. These routes were also used by a chunk of Islamic State supporters also, they pointed out.

There have been sporadic incidents where some Rohingiya famlies tried to sneak into Indian territory using the sea route but such attempts were few and at a much smaller scale. "The story could be different this time, and much organized," the intelligence official said.

The agencies are also keeping an eye on the movement from the southern part of Myanmar from where the Rohingiyas may try to enter the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and occupy the various uninhabited islands there.

Already, the Border Security Force and Assam Rifles have increased their vigil on the border with Myanmar to prevent the influx of the Rohingiyas and most of them are diverted to Bangladesh, which has also imposed harsh restrictions on them.

The intelligence sources also said that the traffickers and Rohingiyas are keen to reach the state of Bengal as the government is more sympathetic to the displaced and has already announced that it would provide shelter to the refugees from Myanmar.

'SECURITY THREAT'

However, the Centre has raised a red flag on security threat from Rohingiyas. The government is developing mechanism to deport around 40,000 Rohingyas living in the country illegally. Minister of state for home affairs Kiren Rijiju stated the government's resolve in this regard more than once.

The officials point out that after the war broke out in Syria and Iraq, more than two million refugees sneaked into Europe with most of them packed up in boats provided to them by human traffickers. Once the refugees touched shores in Europe, they spread out across the continent with the help of human traffickers.

advertisement

Since the influx, the number of incidents related to Islamic terrorism have gone up across the continent with countries including France, England and Belgium being the biggest victims and stories of refugees rioting in different cities coming out every day, the officials pointed out.

Reports suggest that outfits like Al Qaeda, ISIS and Jamaat-ud Dawa (a front of the Lashkar-e-Taiba) of Hafiz Saeed sent their workers to Rohingya camps in Indonesia, Bangladesh and, possibly, India.

These groups entered Rohingya camps on the pretext of providing humanitarian help, but their intention, intelligence agencies suspect, is to identify gullible youths and recruit them as jihadi operators for their outfits.

In Myanmar, Rohingiyas have their terrorists groups such as the Aqa Mul Mujahideen (AMM), which is believed to be an offshoot of the Harkat-ul Jihad Islami-Arakan (HuJI-A) and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army.

India has also extended humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh by flying down food and other essential items to the neighbour to help it deal with the huge influx of Rohingiyas.

India has also dispatched relief material to Bangaldesh be delivered in multiple consignments under 'Operation Insaniyat' using its C-17 heavy lift aircraft.

advertisement

Rohingya tribals from the western Rakhine have settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, UP, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan in India and according to the UN estimates, out of 40,000 Rohingyas, who settled in India , 16,000 have received refugee documentation.

Rohingya immigrants Md Salimullah and Md Shaqir, have moved the Supreme Court challenging the government's decision to deport illegal Rohingya Muslim immigrants back to Myanmar.

--- ENDS ---
Socialist chief Pedro Sanchez in Catalonia on Sunday. Toni Albir (EFE)

Spains leftist parties are showing mixed reactions to the independence referendum that the Catalan government is planning to hold on October 1 despite the fact that Spanish courts have ruled it illegal.

Faced with what is being described as one of the Spanish governments biggest challenges since the transition to democracy in the late 1970s, the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) has temporarily put aside its traditionally confrontational attitude toward the Popular Party (PP) and closed ranks around the rule of law.

Other leftist parties have taken a very different stand on the matter

PSOE leader Pedro Sanchez was in Barcelona on Sunday for a rally in which he showed support for the central government and its attempts to curb Catalan separatists descent into unlawfulness.

We stand on the side of the rule of law and of its leader, in order to respond [to the secessionist challenge] in a proportional, law-abiding manner, said Sanchez, alluding to the legal measures adopted by the Mariano Rajoy administration to stop the referendum from taking place.

Speaking to a crowd of around 20,000 Socialist supporters, Sanchez insisted that the conflict can only be overcome through dialogue, and said that he will support the PP if it chooses to go down that road, either before or after October 1.

He also said that the solution must include constitutional reform and greater powers of self-rule for Catalonia.

In recent years, the Socialist leader has repeatedly mentioned his idea for a new federated state structure that would better reflect the reality of Spains various identities, including greater recognition for the Basques, the Catalans and the Galicians. But pressed for details, Sanchez has so far declined to explain how this new federated Spain would work.

But other leftist parties have taken a very different stand on the matter. Also on Sunday, around 300 people showed up in downtown Madrid to express solidarity with Catalan separatists. Speakers at Teatro del Barrio, in the neighborhood of Lavapies, included members of Podemos, and also of the Catalan secessionist parties Catalan Republican Left (ERC) and CUP, a tiny anti-capitalist group whose support is critical to the governing Junts pel Si (Together for Yes) coalition in Catalonia.

Whats at stake now is not the right to decide, whats at stake is democracy

ERC deputy in Congress Joan Tarda

Also present at the event were representatives for the pro-independence civic associations Omnium Cultural and Assemblea Nacional Catalana (ANC), which have played a leading role in drumming up popular support for the referendum in Catalonia.

Speakers framed the event as a defense of civil liberties, and used constant references to the Franco dictatorship to describe the current governments actions as neo-Francoism and an authoritarian drift of the 1978 regime.

The Catalan question is not a national question and never was, it is a question of democracy, said Isabel Serra, the Podemos spokesperson in the Madrid regional parliament. This is not a territorial crisis, it is a crisis of democracy.

Joan Tarda, who holds a seat in Spanish Congress for the pro-independence Catalan party ERC, said that whats at stake now is not the right to decide, whats at stake is democracy.

Tarda also criticized the PSOE for adopting the PPs terminology.

Nuria Gibert of CUP, a small far-left group made up of Catalan anti-capitalists and ecofeminists, accused the PSOE of being a necessary collaborator to the 1978 bunker and added that there is going to be an imminent break with the Spanish state.

English version by Susana Urra.
Catalan regional premier Carles Puigdemont at a referendum rally in Tarragona. Albert Garcia

Nearly two weeks after the first of the so-called disconnection laws was fraudulently approved in the Catalan parliament, the northeastern Spanish region is living through a contradictory and disconcerting situation of double authority and double legality. On the one hand, democratic order is still functioning with regard to nearly all aspects of everyday life. The Constitution and the laws that derive from it are being observed, as is the regional Statute of Autonomy of Catalonia, known as the Estatut.

But when it comes to politics, the regions institutions, and public television and radio broadcasters, other rules are now in place, ones that have been legitimately suspended by the only body that can do so, the Constitutional Court, and in the wake of that suspension, such breaches constitute illegal acts.

There can not be two parallel legalities, with similar legitimacy, whereby the most convenient can be chosen

There can not be two parallel legalities, with similar legitimacy, whereby the most convenient can be chosen, as if it were a menu between options of equivalent offers. Because there can only be one democratic legality, and that is the one derived from the Constitution and the Estatut.

But in practice, this legality has been living side by side with an illusion of institutionalism, with a mirage of alternative rules, with a phantasmagorical alt-legality founded on facts on the ground, on a parliamentary coup (extended by the recent closure of the regional chamber) and by disobedience of the Estatuts rules.

The driving forces behind these facts are trying to force a unilateral proclamation of independence that constitutes a frontal attack against both domestic and international law. It would arrive after the sought-after celebration of an illegal referendum, one that is lacking any kind of democratic safeguards; one whose celebration would be impossible in any other country in democratic continental Europe, since all of their constitutions prohibit such an experiment. Let us state one more time, and with clarity: the right to self-determination that pro-independence forces are calling for is not recognized by any democratic country in the world.

Citizens are being ordered to man polling stations, but at the same time being warned that doing so will be a criminal offense

The illegality of this invention is well established and there can be no doubts about it  not even among the secessionists themselves, although they will only admit as much in private. All associations of judges, which often disagree on a number of different matters, have just pointed this out, indicating that a government that calls for the law to be breached lacks legitimacy and, at that moment, is no longer an authority; and as such, citizens should and must oppose its instructions.

The Catalan regional government is hiding behind its power to give an appearance of legality to the illegal acts that it is committing. In the face of this, a democratic state has to operate within the law, taking action over illegalities as they are committed, employing its instruments to do so in a reasonable manner, using pressure and warnings  combining efficiency and prudence.

The result of this dynamic is an apparent stalemate, which is creating an intolerable juridical insecurity for citizens, who are being ordered to man polling stations, but at the same time being warned that doing so will be a criminal offense.

The regional government has constructed a complex and fraudulent pseudo-institutional framework

The Catalan regional government has managed to furnish its insubordination with apparent normality. And the central government in Madrid is managing to dismantle elements of illegality, but not in their entirety. As such, many mayors are going to facilitate the use of public spaces as polling stations, but they have been called to give statements before prosecutors; many others who are observing the law are being threatened by the regional government; the police are seizing campaign material, but have not managed to locate the ballot boxes (if indeed they exist); a judge orders the referendum website to be shut down, but the regional government simply clones it; and the electoral campaign rallies continue to be held. The activism of regional premier Carles Puigdemont at such rallies is breaking the rules of the European Council that demand a certain neutrality from its leaders, but above all else it constitutes a challenge to the justice system to either suppress or detain him.

Many of the limitations of the rule of law are derived from democratic principles and values. Only dictatorships (and those who aspire to set up an autocratic state, such as secessionism) skip the rules. In Spain there is a separation of powers and independent courts that are guided by the principles of legality and proportionality.

The regional government has constructed a complex and fraudulent pseudo-institutional framework; dismantling it will not be easy, but there is no option but to do so, if the end of autonomy and the abolition of the Constitution is to be avoided. The stalemate between democratic order and chaos cannot continue. Its unstable and unsustainable. And above all else, it is unacceptable. The government must not allow this legal parallel to continue to take root, lest it should gain legitimacy among citizens, who, by this stage of the ongoing crisis, are becoming increasingly confused. Perhaps this legality should not have been allowed to arise in the first place; but of course, with the due logic and prudence, it should not allow it to consolidate.

English version by Simon Hunter.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Seba Aghayeva  Trend:

The Contact Group of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will discuss the issue on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in connection with Armenias aggression against Azerbaijan on the sidelines of another session of the UN General Assembly in New York, said the message posted on the OIC website.

According to the message, the discussions will be held at the UN on September 19.

During its summit in Istanbul in April 2016, OIC made a decision to establish a contact group for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which included the foreign ministers of the OIC member-states. The decision was made at Turkeys initiative.

The first meeting of the OIC Contact Group in connection with Armenias aggression against Azerbaijan will be held at the level of foreign ministers as part of the general debates at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly.

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.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept.18

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

The US supports a negotiated settlement to the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and will continue to engage actively with the sides as a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, a US State Department official told Trend.

The US longstanding policy, shared by the Minsk Group co-chairs, is that a just settlement must be based on international law, which includes the Helsinki Final Act and the principles of the non-use of force or threat of force and territorial integrity, said the official.

But ultimately, the responsibility for peace falls on the shoulders of the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan, the official added.

The State Department official noted that the United States and Azerbaijan share a strong partnership based on three aspects: security; economics and energy; and democracy and governance.

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.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Seba Aghayeva  Trend:

During his tenure as Armenian foreign minister, Edward Nalbandian has done nothing other than harming the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministrys Spokesman Hikmat Hajiyev told Trend.

He was commenting on Nalbandians recent anti-Azerbaijan statements.

From the first day of joining the negotiation process, that person [Nalbandian] felt incompetent and uninvolved. That person distinguished himself only by tautological, baseless and senseless accusations, Hajiyev said.

He noted that the Armenian FM has no moral right to make any claims regarding the conflict settlement, while Armenia, as part of its aggressive and occupation policy against Azerbaijan, committed bloody ethnic cleansing against more than a million of Azerbaijanis, including such crime against humanity as the Khojaly genocide.

We would like to remind to the Armenian foreign minister that the Khojaly tragedy was committed with the direct participation of the current political and military leadership of Armenia, said Hajiyev.

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.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

Trend:

Political Declaration for UN Reform High Level Event has been held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event.

US President Donald Trump addressed the high-level event.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 14

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Suriname and Azerbaijan can create joint agriculture ventures, Surinamese Finance Minister Gillmore Hoefdraad, who is on a visit in Baku, said in an interview with Trend.

Suriname has significant land resources, but lacks human resources, according to him.

The minister said his country is ready to offer Azerbaijan its land resources, adding he believes Azerbaijan will be able to provide Suriname with technology and human resources.

He noted that the two countries can cooperate through creation of joint ventures and joint agricultural production, and this may be of great benefit to both Azerbaijan and Suriname.

Another area where the two countries can cooperate is the oil sector, although Suriname has less oil reserves than Azerbaijan, Hoefdraad said.

The finance minister noted that he believes Azerbaijan and Suriname can strengthen ties in the agricultural sector and in natural resources, particularly in the oil sector.

He pointed out that Suriname is very interested in using Azerbaijans experience in different areas.

Touching upon the mutual trade turnover, Hoefdraad said the two countries should soon make a list of products that Suriname can import from Azerbaijan and also export to Azerbaijan, and this will allow gradually developing the bilateral trade.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend:

Concerns are growing in Iran over the outcome of the recent agreements with foreign countries on extending credit lines for supporting development projects in the Islamic Republic.

While many believe that the credit lines would help Irans economy climb out of the recession and create new job opportunities, others question the capability of the Iranian firms to pay back the loans and also their ability to meet commitments after allocating such financial facilities.

Abbas Daneshvar, the director of international affairs and resource mobilization at Irans Bank of Industry and Mine, told Trend on Monday that some European banks are going to provide lines of credit (LCs) to Iran in a few days.

There are a number of LCs to be opened by European partners in the coming days, a move in cooperation with the Central Bank of Iran and the Investment Department of the Ministry of Economy

The flow of foreign finance to the country began following the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA/ nuclear deal) last January.

Governments increasing debts

Hossein Abdoh-Tabrizi, a senior advisor to the minister of Roads and Urban Development, has warned against allocating the financial facilities to those entrepreneurs who may be incapable of settling the debts.

We should not allocate the facilities to those incapable of paying back the loan

He further added that in cases the debtors fail to clear the debt, the government has to pay it back.

Irans foreign debts reached $9.122 billion by July 21, 2017, the country's Central Bank (CBI) said in its latest monthly report on Sept. 14.

Speaking during a televised interview aired by Irans public broadcaster Abdoh-Tabrizi proposed to use a part of the financial facilities in producing raw materials and exporting those commodities.

He also urged the government to prevent allocating the foreign finance for importing the equipment and machineries that the country is capable of producing them domestically.

The official also called on the government to turn to foreign investment deals instead of credit lines.

Uncertain future of forex rate in Iran

This is while, Morteza Allahdad, an outstanding Iranian economist has warned against allocating those loans to private firms as the future of currency rate remains unclear in Iran.

Earlier this month, Gholamali Kamyab, the foreign exchange deputy at the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) suggested that his organization may adopt its policies on the unification of the exchange rate as of March.

"The Central Bank has no accurate time schedule for implementing the plan on unifying the currency rates but considering the existing plans, the implementation would begin by the end of the current (Iranian calendar) year (starting March 20)".

There is about a 15 percent difference between the official and free market exchange rates of the US dollar in the current situation in Iran.

Morteza Allahdad believes that allocating the foreign loans to private companies constitute great risks due to the low capacity of domestic producers to export their products.

According to Allahdad, the foreign loan could help Iranian producers, if they were capable of exporting goods.

Extending foreign credit lines should take place in an industry which enjoys incomes from exports.

He further described economic recession and unemployment as the biggest problem of the country.

The officials have earlier announced that the number of unemployed Iranians has already reached 3.4 million.

Allahdad added that over the past four years the country saw an inflation rate of 65 percent but the currency rate has increased by 10 percent.

He said the imbalance between the inflation rate and currency rates encourages the producers to tend to importing goods instead of manufacturing them.

He accused the government of failing to draw up a detailed plan for using the foreign loans.

Benefits of foreign loans

Mohammadreza Biglari, an economic expert suggests that the foreign loans are not beneficial and the country has to pay high interest rates for those credits.

He said that the lack of domestic resources would reduce the possibility to get a proper use from the foreign debts.

Earlier last week, five Iranian banks and Chinas CITIC Group Corporation Ltd inked an agreement which obliges the Chinese side to open worth of $10 billion of credit line for the Middle Eastern country in order to finance a number of development projects in the country.

The Governor of Central Bank of Iran Valiollah Seif has said that the new loans seek to support domestic producers and entrepreneurs.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept.14

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

The consortium for construction of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is due to roll out 131 additional projects with a total value of approximately 23 million euros in the upcoming months, TAP Managing Director Luca Schieppati said in an interview with Trend.

He pointed out that the benefits TAP will bring in Greece, Albania and Italy are many.

"The project will directly contribute to the three countries gross domestic products (GDP) through taxes. Also, TAP will promote economic development and direct as well as indirect job creation along the pipeline route, both during construction and operation. Currently nearly 6,000 people work for the project in Greece, Albania and Italy, as part of TAPs network of key contractors," said Schieppati.

TAP managing director pointed out that many local businesses are involved in the project and local people will be employed throughout the construction process.

"So there are many "spill-over" effects for adjacent businesses, including accommodation, transport, catering, etc. via eligible suppliers," he added.

In addition, Schieppati noted that the project is contributing to improving local infrastructure via the rehabilitation of access roads and bridges in Albania.

"Furthermore, TAP is supporting local communities with strategic projects as part of our social and environmental investment (SEI) programme. In total, we will invest over 55 million euros in the communities along our route," he added.

The managing director said that in Greece, TAP announced an investment of 9 million euros to enhance and upgrade the fleet of utility vehicles in Northern Greece with 92 new vehicles (ambulances, garbage trucks, forestry vehicles, snowploughs and civil protection vehicles).

"In Albania, we rehabilitated a double lane bridge in the city of Corovoda, which will improve transport infrastructure as well as access to the main hospital in the city," he said. "In Italy, as part of the second edition of TAP Start, we are offering small grants totalling 400,000 for projects in the areas of tourism, sports, environment and social issues. 131 additional projects with a total value of approximately 23 million euros are due to be rolled out in the upcoming months."

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).

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Turkey and Russia are establishing a consortium for the construction of Turkeys first Akkuyu nuclear power plant upon the Russian project, the Turkish media reported Sept. 18.

The construction of the nuclear power plant will be launched in March 2018.

The Akkuyu nuclear power plant is the first nuclear power plant project in the world, being implemented upon the BOO ("build-own-operate") model.

Moreover, the Akkuyu nuclear power plant project includes the construction of four power units with Russias Gen III+ VVER reactors. The capacity of each power unit of the nuclear power plant will be 1,200 MW.

Earlier, it was reported that Russias investments in the project will reach $22 billion. The Turkish side expects the first nuclear power plant to be commissioned in 2023.

Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation signed an agreement on the main conditions for the Turkish energy companies Cengiz Holding, Kolin Insaat and Kalyon Insaat to join the shareholders of the Akkuyu Nuclear JSC, which is implementing the Akkuyu nuclear power plant project.

The agreement was signed at the 9th international forum Atomexpo-2017 in Moscow in June 2017.

The Turkish consortium claims 49 percent in Akkuyu Nuclear company. The amount of the possible transaction has not been disclosed. But it will be the biggest investment of foreign companies into Russian projects being implemented outside the country and the world's biggest private investment in nuclear energy sector over the past 17 years.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Earlier this month, both Sasikala and Dinakaran were removed as party chief and deputy, respectively, at an AIADMK General Council meet. Now, after this fresh setback, the disqualified MLAs have filed a case in the Madras High Court.

By Pramod Madhav: Eighteen Tamil Nadu legislators loyal to sidelined AIADMK leaders VK Sasikala and TTV Dhinakaran were disqualified today by the Speaker of the Assembly, P Dhanapal.

The move is a massive setback for Dhinakaran, who arranged for lawmakers backing him to stay in a Kodagu resort after Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam merged their party factions. Earlier this month, both Sasikala and Dinakaran were removed as party chief and deputy, respectively, at an AIADMK General Council meet.

advertisement

The MLAs disqualified today had told Governor Vidyasagar Rao they had no confidence in Palaniswami, and accused him of being corrupt. Their loyalty to Dhinakaran put the Tamil Nadu government in a precarious situation, for it needs more support in the Assembly. It would need 117 MLAs to reach the halfway mark in the legislature, where the RK Nagar seat has been vacant since J Jayalalithaa's death.

Right now, it falls well short of that number.

The Dhinakaran camp, which considers the disqualification illegal, has now approached the Madras High Court.

Meanwhile, the DMK could use this opportunity to precipitate legislative elections. If a certain number of its MLAs resign, the Assembly will have to be dissolved, and fresh polls conducted within six months.

If that happens, MK Stalin's party will fancy its chances - given that after Jayalalithaa's death, the AIADMK has seen months of melodramatic infighting, its former general secretary Sasikala jailed in a disproportionate assets case, and Dhinakaran jailed in a case of alleged bribery.

--- ENDS ---
Tehran, Iran, Sept. 18

By Mehdi Sepahvand  Trend:

Some European banks are going to provide lines of credit (LCs) to Iran in a few days, Trend has found out. The move will put an end to European banks fear of US penalties on ties with Iran.

There are a number of LCs to be opened by European partners in the coming days, a move in cooperation with the Central Bank of Iran and the Investment Department of the Ministry of Economy, Abbas Daneshvar, the director of international affairs and resource mobilization at Irans Bank of Industry and Mine, told Trend September 18.

The news comes close on the heels of a deal a few days earlier, according to which a Chinese state-owned investment firm provided a $10 billion credit line for Iranian banks.

European banks had remained wary of penalties from Washington for working with Iran since an international deal removed anti-Iran sanctions in January 2016.

But sources earlier said talks were at an advanced stage for $22 billion in credit deals with banks from Austria, Denmark and Germany.

China Development Bank also recently signed preliminary deals with Iran worth $15 billion for infrastructure and production projects.

Nevertheless, a couple of weeks earlier, an eight-billion-euro credit deal was signed between Iran and South Koreas Exim Bank, signaling an end to Iranian banking sectors isolation from the world.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 16

By Farhad Daneshvar  Trend:

An Iranian entrepreneur plans to develop electric fuel for urban busses and vans amid growing concerns over air pollution in the Middle Eastern nation.

"The autumn is coming and these petrol cars are enough to kill people in the countrys large cities such as Tehran, Tabriz, Mashhad, Esfahan and Shiraz," Akbar Mirza-Hosseini, car industry expert and the vice-chairman of the board of directors at Iran's Rakhsh Khodro Diesel Company, told Trend.

Calling on the entrepreneurs to cooperate in his project, he touched upon the significance of the new technologies, saying we should not ignore the fact that science and technology will become the most important issue of rivalry in near future.

Akbar Mirza-Hosseini further spoke about an electric monorail system made in his Tabriz-based company and described it as a proper transportation solution to deal with air pollution in the narrow streets of the Irans historical cities.

In a separate interview last week, Morteza Aghaei, the head of public relations office at Iran Khodro (IKCO), told Trend the countrys largest carmaker is also planning to launch the production of hybrid and electric cars in the near future.

Earlier this month, China signaled that it might soon join the UK and France in prohibiting combustion engine cars.

The Environmental Protection Organization earlier warned against Irans dreadful environmental situation as air pollution claims at least 35,000 lives per year in the country.
Tehran, Iran, September 18

By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend:

Irans banking ties with foreign banks and companies have improved significantly over the past couple of years, thanks to the implementation of the nuclear deal (aka Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA), a senior banking official believes.

Under the favorable atmosphere created by the JCPOA, we have been able to extend our foreign ties and have signed a number of deals for providing lines of credit, Abbas Daneshvar, the director of international affairs and resource mobilization at Irans Bank of Industry and Mine told Trend September 18.

Daneshvar counted deals signed with Chinese, Korean, Indian, and Russian partners as landmark deals in this regard.

In late August, a framework agreement was signed between Iranian banks and Korea Eximbank, under which the Korean side would provide a 8 billion euro ($9.4 billion) loan to finance various projects by South Korean companies in Iran.

Also, Russias Vnesheconombank, otherwise known as VEB, last week signed a contract worth $1.2 billion with Irans Bank of Industry and Mine to finance a thermal power plant project in Hormozgan Province.

Last Thursday, China's CITIC Trust agreed to extend $10 billion credit line for supporting projects in lran, based on an agreement signed between the company and five Iranian banks.

Export Development Bank of Iran, Bank of Industry and Mine, Parsian Bank, Bank Pasargad Iran and Refah Bank were designated to act as the agent banks for using the Chinese financing on water management, energy, environment and transport projects in Iran, the official news portal of the Iranian government reported.

The establishment of such ties comes with numerous benefits, Daneshvar said.

The first benefit is that they improve your credit and encourage more foreign banks to approach you. The second benefit is that with every such contract signed, you contribute to the development of a competitive atmosphere. As a result, when you sit for talks with, say, a 6th or 7th bank, you can use this atmosphere towards more powerful negotiation.

Also, these deals bring benefits inside the country. After all, the country needs foreign investment. We provide for the investment via such deals. This in turn also helps economic growth and employment as immediate needs of the country.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Elmira Tariverdiyeva  Trend:

A meeting on the Iranian nuclear deal between Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and foreign ministers of Six powers (Russia, the US, France, UK, China and Germany) is planned to be held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Iran has recently stressed the need to organize such a meeting, taking into account Tehrans claims to Washington's position over the implementation of the nuclear deal.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, who is currently in New York, has clearly outlined Tehrans position, which the Iranian side is trying to convey to Washington.

In his message to the Iranian elite in the US, Rouhani stressed that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is a multilateral agreement and Iran will never be the first to violate an international agreement.

However, Rouhani warned that if the other side seeks to violate the rights of the Iranian people, then, of course, Iran will adequately respond to such actions.

In other words, Tehran warned the US that Irans patience is not limitless and if the US decides to violate all political obligations undertaken by the previous administration, Iran reserves the right to react in any acceptable way.

Officially, Iran has never violated the nuclear deal since its conclusion in January 2015. Tehran conducts missile tests in accordance with international laws, without threatening the security of other countries.

According to the UN Monitoring Mechanism, when implementing its nuclear program, Iran adheres to the terms stipulated in the 2015 deal.

The IAEA report also testifies that Iran has greatly reduced its activity in nuclear developments and kept the enriched uranium reserves at the agreed level.

However, the new US administration is trying to exclude Iran from the nuclear deal, forcing the Iranian authorities to voluntarily refuse to prolong the deal with the West. However, if it happens, Washington will not benefit much.

It is obvious that the withdrawal of Iran from the nuclear deal may provoke a new round of the arms race in the Persian Gulf and a serious confrontation of various forces in the Middle East region.

Frankly speaking, there is a chance that the sides will be able to reach at least a conditional compromise on the sidelines of the UN, which is actively standing for the preservation of a nuclear deal with Iran.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 18

By Ali Mustafayev  Trend:

Irans activeness in regional issues and particularly in the Syrian conflict settlement shows the countrys intention to ensure its own national security, as well as the security of the whole region amid intensive fight against terrorism.

Iran like any other country, seeks to preserve national security and its regional influence, so it will not be surprising if Iran wants to create a privileged position after the [Syrian] war, Ali Pishro, a political analyst and Iran expert at the University of Birmingham, told Trend.

He added that ISIS is not just a security problem of Iran and the regions countries, and the attacks organized by the ISIS terrorist groups in Europe once again showed that in order to solve world-wide security problems, weapons selling countries must tightly control the outcome of this business.

Selling weapons to countries in the region may in the short term give a huge profit, but in the long run they will have a profound negative impact on international security, said Pishro.

The expert added that ISIS, despite its global threats and numerous crimes, is not able to defuse such a large country as Iran.

As the ISIS has aimed to firmly root in Syria, Iran is expanding its influence in the country as far as it is possible, trying to take the situation of the region under control and dislodging terrorist groups together with Russia and Turkey.

The current developments will apparently lead to strengthening of Irans position in the Middle East and its role as a security guarantor and one of the main obstacles to the terrorism in the region.
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met in New York on Sunday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the U.S. State Department said in a brief statement, Reuters reported.

The State Department did not provide any details on what the two men discussed during the meeting. Possible topics include the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, the Syrian civil war and North Koreas nuclear and missile programs.
KYODO NEWS - Sep 18, 2017 - 20:34 | World, Urgent, All

Police in the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Monday arrested a 25-year-old local man for the murder of an elderly Japanese couple earlier this month, citing financial trouble as a motive.

The man, identified as I Putu Astawa, "intended to steal (something from the couple's house), but because the victims fought back, he killed them," local police chief Hadi Purnomo told a press conference.

Astawa, who had debts of some 10 million rupiah (about $770), was arrested in the Bali provincial capital of Denpasar, Hadi said.

On Sept. 4, Norio Matsuba, 76, and his wife, Hiroko, 73, were found dead at their rented house. Their faces were burned beyond recognition.

Astawa worked as a freelance driver and lived about a kilometer from the house, located in a quiet residential area in the Jimbaran area of southern Bali.

The couple had been living in Bali for about five years, after living in the West Java provincial capital of Bandung for more than 10 years.

According to Hadi, Astawa told police during questioning that at 8:30 a.m. on Sept. 3, he was walking around the housing complex where the Japanese couple lived when he noticed the front gate of the couple's house was open.

Upon encountering Hiroko on the second floor of the house, he attempted to snatch her purse, and when she fought back, stabbed her with a knife he found outside the house and tied her up, Hadi said, adding that the man stole 11,000 yen ($99) from her purse.

Astawa subsequently killed Matsuba with the same knife and then drove away from the house in the victims' car, the police said.

He returned at 10 p.m. in the evening, carrying two bottles of gasoline, some incense and matches, which he used to set fire to the house.

According to the police officer, if found guilty of "purposely committing murder," the suspect may face up to 15 years in jail.
By PTI: Islamabad, Sep 18 (PTI) Raising objections over a new seven-storey US Embassy building in the diplomatic enclave here, the Auditor General of Pakistan had cautioned that its top floor can be "conveniently" used for surveillance of the government offices in the adjacent areas, a media report said.

The US government went ahead with the construction of the building without waiting for the prime ministers approval, Dawn reported.

advertisement

The revelation comes amidst tensions in the ties between Pakistan and the US after President Donald Trump last month hit out at Islamabad for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists.

Citing an audit report released by the AGP office, the paper said that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) had withheld the No-Objection Certificate for the US embassy until the approval from the premier, as the CDA can only sanction the construction of up to five-storey buildings in the area.

"Despite pending approval by the prime minister, construction had started," the audit report says.

Citing a report published in Dawn on November 17, 2011, the paper said a CDA official had confirmed that a plan for a new US embassy building had been approved by the authority.

The report claims that the CDA chairman had received a letter from security agencies on February 14, 2012, that expressed concerns about the construction of the seven-storey building, saying it "would overtake most of the ministries and other official buildings along the Constitution Avenue".

The AGP audit report also warned that "in all probabilities, the rooftop of the building will be utilised to install surveillance devices that could be used to monitor government offices in the vicinity".

It acknowledges that the "irregularity" occurred due to the "lack of oversight" and failure of implementation of rules.

Despite constant requests made by the AGP, a department accounts committee meeting could not be held, the report adds.

The audit report has recommended a high-level inquiry against the construction of the building and stresses upon "appropriate corrective action".

The building blueprint was approved in January 2012 by a committee comprising officials of the CDA, representatives of Planning, Emergency and Disaster Management and members nominated by the Pakistan Council of Architects and Town Planners. Not one of them had raised an objection at the time.

After a local intelligence agency raised concerns, the city managers had decided to limit the height of the building.

advertisement

The new embassy building was inaugurated in July 2015.

"The intelligence agency asked the CDA to explain how it could approve a seven-storey structure in the Diplomatic Enclave and urged the CDA to take appropriate action," the paper added. PTI ZH AKJ ZH

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Trump adviser

By Lalit K Jha

New York, Sep 18 (PTI) The US is determined to withdraw from the Paris climate pact unless it gets a favourable term, President Donald Trumps top economic adviser said at the United Nations today.

Gary Cohn, the Director of National Economic Council, said this after a breakfast meeting with energy ministers from about a dozen countries on the sidelines of the annual General Assembly session of the United Nations.

advertisement

"We are withdrawing from the Paris Agreement unless we can reengage on terms more favourable to the United States. This position was made very clear during the breakfast," the White House said in a statement after the meeting.

"Today?s Energy Minister Breakfast was a useful conversation with many of our international allies and partners. We discussed the presidents energy agenda, and the role that US energy resources and technologies can play in promoting energy security, driving economic growth, and reducing emissions at home and globally," a senior White House official said.

The conversation also focused on ways that the countries can work together to provide affordable, reliable energy to help reduce global poverty, the official said.

"Participants discussed the important role that technology and innovation will continue to play as our countries strive to achieve these important goals," he said.

"As a global leader in developing and deploying advanced energy technologies, including highly efficient fossil fuels, the United States looks forward to continuing this conversation as we work together to promote a balanced approach to reducing emissions that does not sacrifice energy security or economic growth,? said the White House official.

President Trump in June announced his decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement on climate change and renegotiate the deal that was agreed upon by over 190 countries during the previous Obama administration.

Arguing that countries like China and India are benefiting the most from the Paris Agreement, Trump had said that the agreement on climate change was unfair to the US, as it badly hit its businesses and jobs.

The Paris agreements central aim is to strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change by keeping the global temperature rise in this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The landmark agreement, which entered into force last November, calls on countries to combat climate change and to accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed for a sustainable low carbon future, and to adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change. PTI LKJ PMS

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
By India Today Web Desk: From having a blast during the shooting of Judwaa 2 to working out together, Varun Dhawan and Taapsee Pannu have grown quite close. And if a report in The Asian Age is to be believed, Varun's girlfriend Natasha Dalal is not too happy about their friendship.

Apparently, Varun is quite fond of her and often talks about her. What's more, he has reportedly started recommending Taapsee's name for his upcoming films and endorsements. Natasha is wary of their closeness and has asked her man to keep a distance.

advertisement

A source told the publication, "Natasha isn't a movie star, and she reacts to news and gossip. When people started talking about how good Varun and Alia Bhatt looked as a couple on screen, Natasha asked Varun to avoid too many films with her. Now she doesn't want Varun to push Taapsee too hard."

However, Natasha has nothing to worry about, according to the insider. "In reality, Varun is a committed boy and will never two-time her. In fact, he's now being seen often with Natasha, and does not stop the media from clicking pictures or videos of them together," the source added.

Varun and Natasha have been going strong for a while now, and rumours were rife that they might just take their relationship to the next level. However, when the actor was asked about it, he said, "Honestly, we have not thought that much ahead. Sometimes in life, when you find someone and that connection is formed, then everything else that you thought was the be-all and end-all of life, doesn't actually matter."

On the work front, Varun will be seen next in his father David Dhawan's Judwaa 2 in a double role. The film, which also stars Taapsee Pannu and Jacqueline Fernandez, is slated to release on September 29.

ALSO WATCH: Varun Dhawan talks about his first kiss, college romance, and being cheated on

--- ENDS ---
Shares of Nvidia (NVDA) moved higher again on Monday, just one trading day after the stock witnessed an impressive 6.3% climb to close last week. This week, NVDA is off to hot start after another bullish analyst report highlighted the strength of its AI arsenal.

Shares of Nvidia NVDA moved higher again on Monday, just one trading day after the stock witnessed an impressive 6.3% climb to close last week. This week, NVDA is off to hot start after another bullish analyst report highlighted the strength of its AI arsenal.

On Sunday, Bank of America Merrill Lynchs Vivek Arya reiterated his buy and top pick ratings for Nvidia shares. The analyst also raised his price target for the stock to $210 from $185, which represents a 17% premium from Fridays close.

Our positive view on Nvidia is based on its underappreciated transformation from a traditional PC graphics chip vendor, into a supplier into high end gaming, enterprise graphics, cloud, accelerated computing and automotive markets, Arya wrote in a note to clients. Similar to other large successful tech industries, we expect the $30bn AI chip market to also feature one dominant supplier  we think NVDA.

Aryas $210 call is the second-highest price target on Nvidia out of more than 30 analysts covering the stock, according to FactSet.com. The highest is from Evercores C.J. Muse, who slapped a $250 price target on the stock last week and caused Fridays major uptick (also read: Why Is Nvidia Stock Gaining Today?).

Our sense is management believes that investors still severely underestimates the impact of AI and the size of the potential market, Muse said.

Heading into the week, Nvidia shares were up more than 58% year-to-date, and the stock proceeded to open more than 3% higher on the back of Aryas bullish note.

While the companys continued dominance in the gaming and enterprise graphics industries is certainly a large part of this remarkable run, sentiment surrounding Nvidias ability to dominate the growing AI market has also fueled the stocks gains.

The sense is that were only at the very beginning of what will become a massive consumer market for AI technology, and Nvidia has already established itself as the outright leader. The graphics chipmaker possesses both a powerful all-purpose AI-enabled processor and its CUDA software programming platform, which helps build out AI software.

Story continues

Compared to competitive products like Alphabets GOOGL Google AI chip, analysts believe that Nvidias processor has a larger potential customer base.

Incumbency matters and Nvidia has a much wider AI/machine learning ecosystem that will be tough to match, Arya said.

Nvidia is currently a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). For the full fiscal year, our consensus estimates are calling for the company to record earnings growth of 40% and sales growth of 29%. Again, these growth figures are currently being supported by the strength of Nvidias core businesses, but the market for AI will only continue to expandperhaps in industries that investors havent even considered yet.

As Arya pointed out, Nvidias AI tech could become a major factor in the healthcare sector: Separately we note NVDA's first mover advantage and growing influence in the multi trillion $ healthcare industry where AI/deep learning is being used for predictive analytics, image scanning and pathology assessments.

As the power of AI continues to become more apparent, investors should expect these possible applications to become clearer, and when they do, Nvidia will be there to reap the rewards.

Want more stock market analysis from this author? Make sure to follow @Ryan_McQueeney on Twitter!

New Report: An Investors Guide to Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks have become more frequent and destructive than ever. In fact, theyre expected to cause $6 trillion per year in damage by 2020. The cybersecurity industry is expanding quickly in response to these threats, and a projected $170 billion per year will be spent to protect consumer and corporate assets.

Zacks has just released Cybersecurity: An Investors Guide to Locking Down Profits, which reveals 4 promising investment candidates to benefit from this growing market. Download the new report now>>



Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report



Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) : Free Stock Analysis Report



NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) : Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment Research
Wall Street attracts a certain breed of individual. If you like brands maybe you work at P&G. If you like apparel maybe youll go to Nike or Under Armour. If you like software, theres Silicon Valley.

And so who goes to Wall Street? People who want to make money and lots of it. Succeeding there requires a special type of person. Excess is not uncommon. All of that creates a rich environment for stories, as the following best books on Wall Street bear out.

This is our second in the series on great business books. In the first installment we listed great investing books. Here we list great books on Wall Street. Our final list will be great general books about business.

Best books about Wall Street

Liars Poker by Michael Lewis, 1989

Nearly thirty years later, its still a must read. This bookwhich kind of came out of nowherenot only launched the career of Michael Lewis, it also presaged the fall of Salomon Brothers and engendered a rocky episode for Warren Buffett. No small things there. Liars is a semi-autobiographical account of a clueless Lewis leaving Princeton, going to work on Wall Street, finding it to be a rats nest and then decamping to become a writer. All manner of people have tried to tell this kind of story over the years, but Lewis succeeded because of his great eye, his storytelling (which some find excessive) and his turn of phrase. Of course Lewis has gone on to become one of the most prominent non-fiction business writers of our time. (See also The Big Short, and Moneyball among others.)

Michael Lewis. (Photo by T.J. Kirkpatrick/Getty Images)

Greed and Glory on Wall Street: The Fall of the House of Lehman by Ken Auletta, 1986

Transcends its Genre, wrote one reviewer back then, and its true. Ken Auletta, another lion of a writer, tells of the rise and fall of Lehman 1.0. Not only is this book a great history/snapshot of Wall Street, but it also introduces us to the likes of Pete Peterson, Steve Schwarzman, Eric Gleacher, Roger Altman, Dick Fuld and many others. Greed and Glory is a classic struggle between old and new Wall Streeta tug of war that would be repeated dozens of times over the years. (See Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, etc.) In this narrative Lehman basically diedand was later rebornonly to expire again in 2008. Will Lehman rise one more time? Dont bet against it. (See also Three Blind Mice: How the TV networks lost their way.)

Story continues

Den of Thieves, by Jim Stewart, 1992

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jim Stewartlike Auletta and Lewisalmost deserves his own category hes written so many epic business books, but this book stands out because it covers so much ground and does it so expertly. Den is the definitive work about the 1980s insider trading scandals (Ivan Boesky) and excesses and rise and fall of Drexel Burnham Lambert. I remember not being able to put it down. (See also Disney War.)

Reminiscences of a Stock Operator by Edwin Lefevre, 1923

While Reminiscences of a Stock Operator was originally published almost a century ago, its amazing how relevant it is today. The book is a thinly veiled biography of Jesse Livermore, a renowned trader who began his career speculating in bucket shops at the start of the 20th century. As entertaining as it is educational, Lefevres work of historical fiction showcases the nuances of the stock market and the psychology of trading and offers timeless advice on the markets. Justine Underhill, Yahoo Finance reporter

Billionaire investor George Soros. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

More Money Than God Sebastian Mallaby, 2010

Mallabys More Money Than God provides a detailed history of the industry from the first hedged fund launched by Alfred Winslow Jones in 1949 to the titans of today. Mallaby dedicates a chapter to each of the major hedge fund legends, including Julian Robertson, Stanley Druckenmiller, George Soros, and others. Its one of the best resources to gaining an insight into some of these larger-than-life personalities. Julia La Roche, Yahoo Finance reporter

Too Big To Fail Andrew Ross Sorkin, 2009

Too Big To Fail is perhaps the most comprehensive account of the 2008 financial crisis. Sorkin provides a detailed, behind-the-scenes account leading up to the financial meltdown and its immediate aftermath. Its a must-read for anyone starting out in business journalism.Julia La Roche, Yahoo Finance reporter

(Serwer note: I asked Sorkin for something people didnt know about his book and he emailed this: The book almost wasnt called Too Big to Fail. I had proposed that title when I sold it to penguin, but the editor didnt love it  I liked it because I thought it worked on so many levels  still, for much of the time I was writing the book, I was also trying to come up a new title  the alternative title I proposed was Failure of Imagination. But clearly, Too Big to Fail was better! I suspect Ill be able to use Failure of Imagination for another book!)

(L-R) Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke and SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro visit after the open portion of a meeting of the Financial Stability Oversight Council November 23, 2010. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Bailout by Neil Barofsky, 2012

Bailout is a page-turning account of how the financial crisis unfolded in Washington. Neil Barofsky, a former prosecutor in the US Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York, details his work as the special inspector general overseeing the $700 billion TARP bailout fund. In a shocking behind-the-scenes account, Barofsky discusses the mishandling of TARP funds, the roadblocks he encountered from Treasury officials and how Wall Street and Washington worked together to bailout the banks. Justine Underhill, Yahoo Finance reporter

 When Genius Failed: The Rise and Fall of Long-Term Capital Management  by Roger Lowenstein, 2000

This is an amazing book for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it tells the story of one John Meriwether, a hedge fund manager who was tied to that scandal at Salomon Brothers (see Liars Poker above), who also created a juggernaut hedge, Long Term Capitalreplete with Nobel Prize-winning economists which subsequently blew up and rocked the financial markets. Later, Meriwether founded JWM Partners, which was battered by the financial crisis of 2008, and closed the following year. Meriwether launched a new firm and fund, JM Advisors with less success. Genius has its limits, I guess. (See also Buffett: The Making of an American Capitalist, and Americas Bank: The Epic Struggle to Create the Federal Reserve.)

(Yahoo Finances Justine Underhill and Julia La Roche contributed to this piece)
BEIJING, Sept 18 (Reuters) - The youth wing of China's ruling Communist Party on Monday said it had complained to social network Twitter about a fake account set up in its name that has tweeted sarcastic comments about the Communist Party.

China blocks Twitter and other Western sites, such as Facebook and Google, but that has not stopped some state media and government departments from setting up Twitter and Facebook accounts in Chinese and English as they seek to expand their global footprint.

In a brief statement on its Weibo account, China's answer to Twitter, the Youth League labelled the @ComYouthLeague Twitter account "completely fabricated", saying it had asked for it to be "handled". The statement did not elaborate.

It displayed a screenshot of the account with the phrase "fake goods" stamped across it in Chinese.

A second picture showed the Youth League's official social media accounts, including those on Weibo and WeChat. It did not include any foreign social media sites.

Twitter did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The account the Youth League labelled as fake sent its first tweet on Sept. 12, and has sent 10 tweets to date.

One linked to an article on the official Xinhua news agency about a Chinese being detained for selling VPN services that help people skirt internet curbs and asked why people needed to do this, if China had such a "wonderful internet culture".

It is not clear who set up the account, but it calls itself the Youth League's official Twitter account and carries a link to the League's official website.

Adding to the confusion, another Twitter account claiming to be the Youth League's, @ccylchina, was also launched last week, though its content conforms to the party's point of view. Neither account is officially verified by Twitter.

The Youth League did not answer telephone calls seeking comment.

The Youth League has 88 million members aged between 14 and 28, mainly party and government officials who have been groomed for decades as potential future rulers.

With more than 5 million followers on Weibo, it has aggressively courted Chinese social media, extending its reach to platforms previously neglected by mainstream propaganda bodies.

In July, the Youth League made its latest online foray into Netease music, one of China's largest online music streaming sites, with songs on its playlist ranging from the Internationale to raps by Taiwanese singing sensation Jay Chou. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Pei Li; Additional reporting by Cate Cadell; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said that anti-national elements have been posting unverified information on social media to foment tension.

By Press Trust of India: Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today that anti-national elements have been trying to foment tension in the society by posting unverified information on social media and asked people not to forward such messages without verification.

Singh said information and news, that was completely wrong or having no basis, was being regularly circulated on social media such as WhatsApp and many people consider it to to be true.

advertisement

"I want to tell SSB jawans not to believe such messages and forward to anyone without verification as anti-national elements have been trying to foment trouble in the society. We all have to be careful before believing or forwarding them," he said after launching the intelligence wing of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) here.

Lauding the role of the SSB, which guards the 1,751 km-long Indo-Nepal and the 699 km-long Indo-Bhutan borders, Singh said it is very tough to guard such open borders, which allow visa-free movement of people, than fenced borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.

"In an open border, the security-men do not know who is anti-national, which way a criminal is coming or who is carrying fake currency or fake drugs," he said.

Referring to his earlier announcement that the family of each martyred paramilitary solider will get at least Rs one crore as compensation, the home minister said he was contemplating to "do something" for those serving personnel who face an emergency situation but are unable to cope up with it and need help.

"I am also thinking to do something and I will certainly do it," he said amidst applause from about 1,000 guests, mostly serving and retired personnel from different paramilitary forces.

Earlier, the home minister launched the the SSB's first-ever intelligence wing, which will gather information along the borders with Bhutan and Nepal, which are often used by criminals and Kashmiri militants returning from Pakistan.

The intelligence wing will have 650 field and staff agents to gather actionable information.

Due to the visa-free regime, India has with Nepal and Bhutan , there is a trans-border movement of criminals and anti-national elements which pose a major challenge, a home ministry official said.

As many as 230 former Kashmiri militants , based in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, have returned home through the Indo-Nepal border since 2010.

The Indo-Bhutan border is known to be frequented by the Assam-based insurgent group National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), which has even attacked Bhutanese nationals in the past.

The SSB has also been declared as the lead intelligence agency for both the borders. Thus, the central government felt that a well-knit intelligence network of the highest capability that can function and deliver would be the prime requirement for comprehensive border management.

advertisement

This was essential as the SSB's operations are based on intelligence to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan, the official said.

--- ENDS ---
Brokers trade on their computer terminals at a stock brokerage firm in Mumbai May 13, 2014. REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui/Files

REUTERS - Shares of Dixon Technologies (India) Ltd rose as much as 70 percent on their trading debut on Monday as investors bet on the strong outlook for the contract electronics manufacturer that counts some of the leading global names among its clients.

The stock was trading at 2,897.45 rupees as of 0531 GMT, 64 percent higher than its IPO issue price of 1,766 rupees. It went as high as 2,999 rupees earlier in the day.

The company's initial public offering (IPO) to raise 6 billion rupees ($93.7 million) had been subscribed nearly 118 times, making it one of the most-subscribed IPOs this year.

Dixon Technologies' healthy order book and tie-ups with companies such as Panasonic Corp and Koninklijke Philips N.V should improve revenue and margins going forward, said Jaikishan Parmar, an equity analyst with Mumbai's Angel Broking.

Road operator Bharat Road Network Ltd, which also listed on Monday after a 6 billion rupee IPO, rose as much as 6.8 percent to 218.9 rupees, compared with the IPO issue price of 205 rupees.

Some investors did not like the "complicated structure" through which Bharat Network operates, said Rajnath Yadav, an analyst at local brokerage Choice Broking. The IPO had been subscribed 1.8 times.

Strong stock markets have fuelled a surge in equity deals in Asia's third-largest economy, with IPO proceeds so far this year crossing $3 billion. While last year's $4 billion fund-raising from IPOs is set to be surpassed, some expect proceeds to even top the record $8.5 billion raked in seven years ago.

Capacit'e Infraproject Ltd's IPO to raise 4 billion rupees, which closed last Friday, was subscribed 183 times.

($1 = 64.0075 Indian rupees)

(Reporting By Samantha Kareen Nair, Aby Jose Koilparambil and Krishna V Kurup in Bengaluru; Editing by Devidutta Tripathy and Subhranshu Sahu)
Mr Trump was making his first comments at the UN General Assembly - REUTERS

President Donald Trump made his debut at the United Nations on Monday, using his first moments at the world body to urge the 193-nation organization to reduce bureaucracy and costs while more clearly defining its mission around the world.

But while Trump chastised the United Nations - an organization he sharply criticized as a candidate for president for its spiraling costs - he said the United States would "pledge to be partners in your work" in order to make the UN "a more effective force" for peace across the globe.

"In recent years, the United Nations has not reached its full potential due to bureaucracy and mismanagement," said Trump, who rebuked the United Nations for a ballooning budget. "We are not seeing the results in line with this investment."

The president pushed the UN to focus "more on people and less on bureaucracy" and to change "business as usual and not be beholden to ways of the past which were not working" while also suggesting that the United States was paying more than its fair share to keep the New York-based world body operational.

But he also complimented the steps the United Nations had taken in the early stages of the reform process and made no threats to withdraw his nation's support.

UN Secretary General Guterres shakes hands with Trump at UN Headquarters in New York Credit: Reuters

His measured tone stood in stark contrast to his last maiden appearance at a global body, when he stood at Nato's new Brussels headquarters in May and scolded the member nations for not paying enough and refusing to explicitly back its mutual defense pact.

While running for office, Trump labeled the UN as weak and incompetent, and not a friend of either the United States or Israel. But he has softened his tone since taking office, telling ambassadors from UN Security Council member countries at a White House meeting this year that the UN has "tremendous potential."

Trump more recently has praised a pair of unanimous council votes to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its continued nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

Story continues

Trump's big moment comes Tuesday, when he delivers his first address to a session of the UN General Assembly. The annual gathering of world leaders will open amid serious concerns about Trump's priorities, including his policy of "America First," his support for the UN and a series of global crises. It will be the first time world leaders will be in the same room and able to take the measure of Trump.

The president on Monday praised UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who also spoke at the reform meeting and said he shared Trump's vision for a less wasteful UN to "live up to its full potential." The US has asked member nations to sign a declaration on UN reforms, and more than 120 have done so. The president also kicked off his maiden speech at the world body by making a reference to the Trump-branded apartment tower across First Ave. from the U.N.

Nikki Haley, the US ambassador to the UN, said Trump's criticisms were accurate at the time, but that it is now a "new day" at the UN An organization that "talked a lot but didn't have a lot of action" has given way to a "United Nations that's action-oriented," she said, noting the Security Council votes on North Korea this month.

Guterres has proposed a massive package of changes, and Haley said the UN is "totally moving toward reform."

Trump also planned to hold separate talks Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and French President Emmanuel Macron. US national security adviser HR McMaster said the conversations would be wide-ranging, but that "Iran's destabilizing behavior" would be a major focus of Trump's discussions with both leaders.

Breakthroughs on a Middle East peace agreement are not expected. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser on the issue, recently returned from a trip to the Middle East.

The United States is the largest contributor to the UN budget, reflecting its position as the world's largest economy. It pays 25 percent of the UN's regular operating budget and over 28 percent of the separate peacekeeping budget - a level of spending that Trump has complained is unfair.

The Trump administration is conducting a review of the UN's 16 far-flung peacekeeping operations, which cost nearly $8 billion a year. Cutting their costs and making them more effective is a top priority for Haley.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres - who, like Mr Trump, took office in January - plans to meet separately with "concerned parties," including North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho, on the sidelines of the 72nd General Assembly.

"The solution can only be political. Military action could cause devastation on a scale that would take generations to overcome," Mr Guterres warned on Wednesday.

Burma's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi cancelled her trip to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, which begins next week, while criticism of her handling of the Rohingya crisis grows Credit: Paula Bronstein

A week ago, the 15-member UN Security Council unanimously adopted its ninth sanctions resolution since 2006 over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said UN sanctions had banned 90 percent of the Asian state's publicly reported exports, saying of Pyongyang on Friday: "This is totally in their hands on how they respond."

Haley told CNN's "State of the Union" program on Sunday that Washington had "pretty much exhausted" its options on North Korea at the Security Council.

Mr Ri is due to address the General Assembly on Friday.
Travellers wait in front of a passenger jet belonging to Irish discount airline Ryanair at Charleroi airport in southern Belgium, February 2, 2004. REUTERS/Yves Herman/Files

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Ryanair has to comply with EU passenger rights, including possible reimbursement and compensation, over its plans to cancel between 40 and 50 flights per day until the end of October, the European Commission said on Monday.

"Airlines operating in the EU need to respect the European rules.... Passengers whose flights are cancelled have a comprehensive set of rights," a Commission spokesman told a news conference.

He said it was not for the Commission to comment on the operational decisions of an airline, but that Ryanair had to comply with the rules.

"We have to check if all this is respected by Ryanair. For instance, you are entitled to reimbursement if you are not warned two weeks in advance," he said.

(Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop)
The Google app logo is seen on a smartphone in this picture illustration taken September 15, 2017. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Google (GOOGL.O) has offered to display rival comparison shopping sites via an auction, as it aims to stave off further EU antitrust fines, four people familiar with the matter said.

Google is under pressure to come up with a big initiative to level the playing field in comparison shopping, but its proposal was roundly criticised by competitors as inadequate, the sources said.

EU enforcers see the antitrust case as a benchmark for investigations of other areas dominated by the U.S. search giant, such as travel and online mapping.

Google has already been fined a record 2.4 billion euros 2.12 billion pounds) by the European Commission for favouring its own service, and could face millions of euros in fresh fines if it fails to treat rivals and its own service equally.

In its proposal submitted to the European Commission on Aug. 29, the company said it would allow competitors to bid for any spot in its shopping section known as Product Listing Ads, the sources said.

EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager said it was too early to say if the offer would be accepted.

"It is at this point in time of course impossible to say what will happen but obviously market reactions will be one of the things that we'll be taking under consideration," she told reporters in Washington on Monday.

Google, whose parent is Alphabet Inc, sought feedback from four to five competitors and it was overwhelmingly negative, the sources said.

The adverse reaction could undermine Google's efforts to win over EU antitrust regulators.

Three years ago, the world's most popular internet search engine made a similar offer in an attempt to settle a long-running investigation by the Commission and avoid a fine. That was ultimately rejected following criticism from rivals and discord within the EU executive.

Under that proposal, Google would reserve the first two places for its own ads. The new offer would also see Google set a floor price with its own bids minus operating costs.

Story continues

The offer does not address the issues set out by EU competition regulators, the sources said.

"This is worse than the commitments," one of the people said, who requested anonymity.

The European Commission said the onus was on Google to comply with its cease and desist order.

"It is Google's sole responsibility to ensure compliance with the Commission antitrust decision, and it is for Google to explain how it intends to do so," spokesman Ricardo Cardoso said.

Google did not respond to a request for comment.

UK price comparison site Foundem, whose complaint triggered the EU investigation in 2010, dismissed the auction proposal.

"Unless Google is volunteering to break up its general-and specialised-search businesses, the inclusion of Google's comparison shopping competitors into a new or existing pay-for-placement auction would simply create an additional anti-competitive barrier," the company said.

Google has until Sept. 28 to stop its anti-competitive practices or Alphabet could be fined up to 5 percent of its average daily worldwide turnover, or around $12 million a day, based on Alphabet's 2016 turnover of $90.3 billion.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Additional reporting by Diane Bartz in Washington; Editing by Susan Fenton and Dan Grebler)
By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Google has offered to display rival comparison shopping sites via an auction, as it aims to stave off further EU antitrust fines, four people familiar with the matter said. Google is under pressure to come up with a big initiative to level the playing field in comparison shopping, but its proposal was roundly criticized by competitors as inadequate, the sources said. EU enforcers see the antitrust case as a benchmark for investigations of other areas dominated by the U.S. search giant, such as travel and online mapping. Google has already been fined a record 2.4 billion euros ($2.9 bln) by the European Commission for favoring its own service, and could face millions of euros in fresh fines if it fails to treat rivals and its own service equally. In its proposal submitted to the European Commission on Aug. 29, the company said it would allow competitors to bid for any spot in its shopping section known as Product Listing Ads, the sources said. EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager said it was too early to say if the offer would be accepted. "It is at this point in time of course impossible to say what will happen but obviously market reactions will be one of the things that we'll be taking under consideration," she told reporters in Washington on Monday. Google, whose parent is Alphabet Inc, sought feedback from four to five competitors and it was overwhelmingly negative, the sources said. The adverse reaction could undermine Google's efforts to win over EU antitrust regulators. Three years ago, the world's most popular internet search engine made a similar offer in an attempt to settle a long-running investigation by the Commission and avoid a fine. That was ultimately rejected following criticism from rivals and discord within the EU executive. Under that proposal, Google would reserve the first two places for its own ads. The new offer would also see Google set a floor price with its own bids minus operating costs. The offer does not address the issues set out by EU competition regulators, the sources said. "This is worse than the commitments," one of the people said, who requested anonymity. The European Commission said the onus was on Google to comply with its cease and desist order. "It is Google's sole responsibility to ensure compliance with the Commission antitrust decision, and it is for Google to explain how it intends to do so," spokesman Ricardo Cardoso said. Google did not respond to a request for comment. UK price comparison site Foundem, whose complaint triggered the EU investigation in 2010, dismissed the auction proposal. "Unless Google is volunteering to break up its general-and specialized-search businesses, the inclusion of Google's comparison shopping competitors into a new or existing pay-for-placement auction would simply create an additional anti-competitive barrier," the company said. Google has until Sept. 28 to stop its anti-competitive practices or Alphabet could be fined up to 5 percent of its average daily worldwide turnover, or around $12 million a day, based on Alphabet's 2016 turnover of $90.3 billion. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Additional reporting by Diane Bartz in Washington; Editing by Susan Fenton and Dan Grebler)
man in boat - Getty Images North America

Hiscox has put the expected cost of claims it will incur from Hurricane Harvey in the United States at about $150m (110m), as it warned natural disasters would mean a big bill for insurers this year.

The Bermuda-based specialist insurer said it was exposed to the catastrophe, which devastated Houston in Texas, through its reinsurance business and insurance lines, including flood coverage for homeowners and businesses.

The FTSE 250 firm warned there would be a further bill for Hurricane Irma, which wreaked havoc earlier this month in the Caribbean before hitting Florida. It is still calculating an estimate for that disaster, which will be announced in due course.

Hiscox

2017 will be an expensive year for natural catastrophes but the industry can cope, said Bronek Masojada, Hiscox chief executive.

Insurance remains a cyclical business and after a long period of price reductions, insurance rates in the affected areas and in specific sectors such as large property are likely to increase.

In the wider global insurance market for large risks, we expect rates to stabilise and begin to increase."

Hurricane Irma leaves path of destruction in Caribbean as it smashes into Cuba, in pictures

Hiscox said the Harvey figure was within its modelled range for an event of that scale. Its shares were down 2.6pc at around 12.19 in late morning trading.

The boss of Lloyds of London has urged insurers to do more to tackle climate change, with the industry as a whole expecting losses of more than $70bn from the two hurricanes - although this is down on an initial estimate of $150bn.

Inga Beale, chief executive of Lloyds, told The Sunday Telegraph insurers had a duty to play a bigger role, for instance by encouraging customers to build resilience to natural disasters by offering premium discounts.

Hiscox, which provides cover for around 60,000 homes in the UK, suffered a 50pc fall in pre-tax profits to 102.6m in its last set of results for the six months to June, blamed on currency movements.

It said it would pour an extra 50m into its marketing spend to try to attract more consumer clients.

How to connect with us | Telegraph Business on social media
Marbue Brown JPMogan Chase

JPMorgan Chase poached an executive from Amazon in a bid to help the bank improve the customer experience.

Chase on Monday announced the hire of Marbue Brown as its head of customer experience for consumer banking and wealth management. He'll report directly to Thasunda Duckett, the CEO of Chase's consumer bank.

"Marbue will partner with my leadership team and other Chase senior leaders to help us define the vision for a world-class customer experience," Duckett wrote in a memo seen by Business Insider. "He'll help guide our Chase customer journey with a focus on deepening relationships."

Brown joins the country's largest bank by assets from Amazon, where he served as global lead of the company's "Andon Cord" customer-experience team, a group that focused on monitoring products that consistently disappointed customers and rooting out the problem. Andon Cord is a manufacturing process originally developed by Toyota to solve assembly-line quality issues.

Hiring an exec from one of the world's foremost tech giants is another sign of JPMorgan's efforts to boost its own technology chops. At Chase, Brown will be tasked with improving customer engagement across platforms  branches, call centers, online, and mobile.

He'll start off from a nice foundation. In June, J.D. Power ranked Chase fourth of the 23 large and midsize banks for customer satisfaction  the top performer of the big-five banks for the fifth year in a row.

In the second quarter, Chase reported deposits were up 10% year-over-year to $507 billion. The company also reported 45 million active digital users, up 14% from the previous year.

Before Amazon, Brown, who is originally from Liberia, spent nearly a decade at Microsoft.

NOW WATCH: This map reveals how much $100 is actually worth in your state





More From Business Insider


vietnam war ken burns

Ken Burns and Lynn Novick's new 18-hour documentary series, "The Vietnam War," premieres Sunday on PBS, and it feels as searingly immediate as it is soaked in history.

Burns rejects the notion that history repeats itself, but at a Bank of America preview screening of the doc in New York on Thursday, Burns said he does notice "historical rhymes" in his work.

"I'm hearing a lot of rhymes today," Burns continued: a public divided, a president convinced the media is lying, the "rancor" that fills the country  a word Burns used twice.

And while there are lessons to be learned from "Vietnam" about the horrors of war and its lasting effects, the main project Burns and Novick took on was telling the "many truths" of the war. That means interviews, and archival footage, from all sides of the conflict.

Though you may have seen some of the footage in "Vietnam" before, it's still stunning, especially when placed alongside personal recollections. During the war, journalists had a striking level of access and intimacy with soldiers  and they paid the price. Over 200 journalists and photographers were killed in Vietnam, Novick said.

For "Vietnam," the quality of the archival footage means a truly cinematic feel, and less classic "Ken Burns" tricks to make still photos seem alive. But it's not just the footage, but rather the individual perspectives that will stick with you, especially those of Vietnamese people on both sides.

Phan Quang Tue, a retired immigration judge who came to the US in 1975 (and appeared in the doc), said at the screening he felt "Vietnam" was a non-partisan documentary, and that viewers should approach it as such.

One such viewer is Senator John McCain, whose wartime experience is the stuff of legends. "McCain just wanted to see the North Vietnamese stories," Burns said Thursday. "Show me their story," McCain instructed Burns when being shown parts of the documentary.

"Our species is bad at learning from events," Burns said. But if you want to get the most out of this new documentary, you should take the McCain approach, and listen to all the perspectives on this defining and painful chapter in US history.

Story continues

"The Vietnam War" premieres Sunday, September 17 on PBS. You can also watch it using the PBS app.

NOW WATCH: Now that Apple has unveiled iPhone X, should you dump the stock?





More From Business Insider


YC Modi investigated the 2002 Gujarat riots, as part of the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT).

By Press Trust of India: Senior IPS officer Y C Modi, who was part of the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team that probed the 2002 Gujarat riot cases, was today named chief of the National Investigation Agency.

The federal probe agency is tasked with probing terrorism and terror-financing related cases.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved Modi's appointment as director general of the NIA, an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) said.

advertisement

Another senior IPS officer, Rajni Kant Misra, has been appointed director general of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

Modi will hold the post till his superannuation, i.e. May 31, 2021, the order said.

ACC has also approved the appointment of Modi as officer on special duty (OSD) in NIA with immediate effect to ensure a smooth takeover. Modi, a 1984 batch IPS officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, is at present special director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

He will take over from Sharad Kumar after he completes his tenure on October 30, the order said. Kumar, who was appointed DG NIA in July 2013, has been given two extensions. In October last year, he was given a one-year extension, apparently to help the agency complete some important probes, including the Pathankot terror case, terror strikes in Kashmir, Burdwan blast case and the Samjhauta blast cases Misra has been appointed director general of the SSB till the date of his superannuation, i.e. August 31, 2019, the DoPT order said.

Misra, a 1984 batch IPS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, is at present additional director general in the Border Security Force (BSF).

--- ENDS ---
Newly named Ford Motor Company president and CEO James Hackett answers questions during a press conference at Ford Motor World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, U.S., May 22, 2017. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook

Jim Hackett has been CEO of Ford for three months now, and Morgan Stanley is ready to see some changes.

The bank says a deciding moment for the automaker will come next month, on October 3, when management plans to announce a strategic update to analysts and investors.

Morgan Stanley hopes that update is a partnership between Ford and Waymo, Alphabets self-driving arm.

Fords strategy towards exploring Auto 2.3 was through taking stakes in a wide range of start-ups to expose the company to new technologies and business models  a strategy not unusual compared to other global OEMs, analyst Adam Jonas said in a note Monday.

"Ford has not cooperated at a high level with the larger, more well capitalized tech players looking at Mobility to this point. Alphabets efforts to develop sustainable transport networks through its autonomous car division (now called Waymo) is perhaps the most enterprising of the major players."

Ford and Waymo had reportedly been in discussions that fell apart in early 2016, but Fords new leadership may be better positioned to negotiate a partnership like this, Morgan Stanley says, and the fact that Waymo CEO John Krafcik worked for Ford for 14 years only helps.

Ford Self Driving Car

Last summer, Fords new CEO Mark Fields laid out a vision for the automaker that includes building a vehicle without a stirring wheel or brake pedal by 2021. Since then, Ford has already invested $1 billion in Argo AI, a robotics company founded by alumni of Waymo and Uber.

Despite the promise self-driving may have, it will take more than good headlines to turn around Fords stock, Morgan Stanley says. The bank maintains an underweight rating for the stock, as well as its $9 price target  roughly 23% below current share prices.

Story continues

"We think Ford Chairman Bill Ford selected Jim Hackett to effect profound cultural and structural change at the company. This may involve a restructuring of the business portfolio, a new reporting structure, new partnerships, and new hires, the bank said.

While we cannot rule out success and recognize the opportunity for talented management to bring lasting change, we believe investors are not being compensated for the elevated levels of execution risk.

Ford stock price

NOW WATCH: Trump's lack of progress has caused a major dollar reversal





More From Business Insider


HELSINKI (Reuters) - Nokia will start to book additional revenue from the current quarter after a ruling by an arbitration court on payments from South Korea's LG Electronics <066570.KS> for using its smartphone patents. The Finnish company said it would also get a one-off payment, although it did not disclose any of the sums involved. The companies had started the arbitration in 2015. "We believe that this award confirms the quality of Nokia's patent portfolio. We continue to see potential for additional licensing opportunities," said Nokia Chief Legal Officer Maria Varsellona in a statement. The ruling was made by the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce. Nokia has recently signed deals with larger phone makers Samsung Electronics <005930.KS> and Apple , as well as China's Xiaomi Technology [XTC.UL]. Nokia's patent unit had sales of 616 million euros (541.47 million pounds) in the first half of the year -- just 6 percent of the group's total revenue. However, licensing payments are highly profitable while Nokia's core business, telecom networks, is suffering an industry-wide slump. "Nokia has been quicker than expected to clinch deals in the patent side... The next interesting scalp will be Huawei [HWT.UL]," said analyst Mikael Rautanen from research firm Inderes, with an "accumulate" rating on the stock. He said, however, that the revenue of the LG deal will be clearly smaller than that from the Apple agreement, which he estimated to bring around 250 million euros ($298 million)annually. Shares in the company rose 0.6 percent by 0737 GMT. Nokia sold its once-dominant phone business to Microsoft in 2014 but retained its patent catalog covering technology that reduces the need for hardware components in a phone, conserves battery life and increases radio reception, among other features. LG has a global market share of around 4 percent in smartphones, according to Strategy Analytics. (Reporting by Jussi Rosendahl; editing by Jason Neely/Keith Weir)
nvidia ceo jensen huang

Nvidia hit an all-time high of $190.08 on Monday after another Wall Street bank took notice of its huge advantage in artificial intelligence.

AI is the hottest area of tech right now, and Nvidia is crushing its competition. Last week, Evercore analyst C.J. Muse said that not enough people are paying attention to Nvidia and AI right now and Vivek Arya of Bank of America Merril Lynch agrees.

Arya said Nvidia's transition to a chip maker and AI powerhouse is "underappreciated," according to a CNBC review of Arya's comments.

Muse also thinks the company is underappreciated and expects AI to be the main driver to $45 billion of growth at Nvidia. He said every computer will eventually have some AI component, representing a huge opportunity for chip makers like Nvidia.

Nvidia has the chance to dominate the competition because of its impressive graphics processing units. Their chips are the best for artificial intelligence work. Intel and AMD are Nvidia's strongest competitors, but their technology is behind Nvidia's, Markets Insider previously reported.

Nvidia's newest "Volta" chips are extremely powerful chips aimed at the data center market where a lot of AI processing power will live. The company is highly focused on this segment of its business, and BAML thinks it could grow 21% in 2018, according to CNBC, citing Arya. Nvidia started working on its AI programming platform in 2006, while other players have started their AI tech developments much more recently.

Shares of Nvidia are up 85.33% this year.

Story continues

nvidia stock price

NOW WATCH: Amazon's transformation of Whole Foods puts the entire grocery industry on notice





More From Business Insider


Every once in a while, an app comes along aiming to provide users with disposable number. Shuffle emerged a couple of years go do this; Burner has existed even longer.

Now, software engineers Chakshu Ahuja and Siddhant Sanyam think they'e come up with a solution for both individuals and small businesses that might not want to give out their number.

The friends -- who met as schoolmates at the engineering school The National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli, and who today work at the mobile app performance company Headspin and at Facebook, respectively -- have come up Proxytel.

It's a hack they created at TechCrunch Disrupt's hackathon, which kicked off last night, but the duo sees startup potential in the idea.

The use case for individuals is obvious; just ask anyone who uses Craigslist or Tinder. As for why small businesses need this: In the same way that a small business might want to provide its customers with a P.O. box for the sake of privacy, it might not want to give out its phone number in a very public fashion. (You can imagine this scenario playing out more frequently as more individuals become contractors who work for themselves.)

Huge platforms like Lyft and Uber already manage this process for the people who drive for them. But most smaller companies don't have a lot of similar, affordable options. Even Google Voice has its limitations.

Enter Proxytel, which right now relies on an API from Nexmo, a cloud communications platform that helped sponsored the event, along with IBM's Watson (another sponsor). It wants to create phone numbers that small business owners can implement to mask their real numbers and, crucially, to provide them sentiment analysis around the calls that do come in. If a customer is angry, for example, his or her voicemail might be brought to the company owner's attention faster than someone simply looking for more information.

Another key feature, says the team, is that a number will be disposed of on a timely basis (hourly or daily, ostensibly). That means that if, say, a person using the mobile classifieds app Letgo is talking with five different potential buyers, each would be provided a different number to ensure the "utmost privacy," says Sanyam.

Story continues

As for a potential business model, Sanyam suggests that the service would likely be free to very small businesses thanks to the miracles of load balancing. Essentially, he envisions banding together small businesses that can share a set of numbers, depending on how many calls they typically receive in a day. Proxytel would manage them all to ensure that none is being used simultaneously.

As for bigger businesses, they'd likely be charged a monthly subscription fee.

It's like having a very affordable customer service help desk, suggests Ahuja. "Small companies don't have the manpower to [tackle this particular issues]. We'd fill [that void] for them."

"It's funny," she adds. "We just came up with this idea and it's obviously a very preliminary [version] of what we'd build [with more time]. But you wonder, why is there no such thing?"

Check out their presentation below:

https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/themes/techcrunch-2017/features/shortcodes/vidible-callback-js.php?id=19
laura ingraham

Conservative pundit Laura Ingraham reportedly signed a contract with Fox News to host her own show, marking a major shift in the network's primetime lineup.

Fox News announced on Monday that Ingraham will host "The Ingraham Angle" at 10 p.m. slot, bumping host Sean Hannity up to 9 p.m.

"The Five" is also set to return to its original 5 p.m. time slot, following Fox's decision to cancel "The Specialists" in light of host Eric Bolling's departure amid sexual harassment allegations.

"After a decade working at FOX News with a team of television pros, I am thrilled to be joining the primetime line-up as a host of the 10 oclock hour," Ingraham said in a statement.

The incoming host's show may further amplify Fox's pro-President Donald Trump coverage in primetime.

The White House previously courted Ingraham for a potential communications job, and she's largely supported the president's agenda while other right-wing pundits have grown wary of Trump's ability to fulfill his campaign promises.

Monday's news marks the third major shift in Fox News' primetime lineup in what has been a tumultuous year for the network.

In January, Tucker Carlson replaced the 9 p.m. show hosted by Megyn Kelly, who left for NBC. The lineup shifted again in April after Bill O'Reilly left amid his own sexual-harassment allegations, bumping Carlson into O'Reilly's 8 p.m. slot and moving "The Five" to 9 p.m. from 5 p.m.

NOW WATCH: Why you won't find a garbage can near the 9/11 memorial





More From Business Insider


An average of 48 Ryanair flights per day will be cancelled for the next six week

Ryanair could have to fork out 20m (17.6m) in compensation as it moved to cancel the flights of roughly 400,000 passengers after admitting to "messing up" the allocation of holiday to its pilots.

The Irish airline's chief executive apologised for the issue and claimed it would not argue the problem was an "exceptional circumstance", something which could have frustrated passengers' attempts to claim recompense for any delays or cancellations.

An average of 48 flights per day will be cancelled for the next six weeks as the carrier deals with a bulge of holiday requests because of requirements by regulators to move its holiday year from the financial one (April-March) to the calendar one. This has meant squeezing its pilots' leave into nine months rather than 12, something made worse by Ryanair's commitment to honour a four-week block of leave which is common in aviation.

Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary

Mr O'Leary, while contrite, was keen to point out 98pc of its 2,500 flights would be unaffected by cancellations and said his decision was preferable than trying to maintain a full schedule and risking delays for a much larger number of passengers.

"It is clearly a mess but in the context of an operation where we operate more than 2,500 flights a day it is reasonably small," Mr O'Leary said.

He added: "That doesn't take away in any way the inconvenience of it to those people whose flights have been cancelled."

The Commission for Aviation Regulation said compensation beyond an offer of an alternative flight or a refund could be necessary depending on the notice period given by the Irish carrier.

The company is reported to be estimating the total cost of the debacle at around 25m  relatively insignificant given its 1.47bn in pre-tax profits in the year to March 31. Perhaps more problematic is the possibility that passengers will be put off booking with the carrier for fear their flight might be cancelled.

Story continues

Ryanair had only published cancellations until Wednesday September 20 which Mr O'Leary explained was done because the company had focused on those travelling imminently. But the company has now said it will release a comprehensive list as Mr O'Leary acknowledged he had "not focused on the worry and concern" of passengers who had been left uncertain about whether their flights in the coming weeks would be cancelled.

Ryanair

Cancellations are set to focus on airports with the largest number of flights, including Barcelona, Dublin, London Stansted, Madrid and Milan Bergamo meaning it will be easier to offer passengers an alternative option the same day.

Mr O'Leary said all customers who were entitled to compensation "will receive compensation".

The European Commission has also said passengers are entitled to reimbursement if they are not warned two weeks in advance of a cancellation.

How to connect with us | Telegraph Business on social media
The Canadian unit of integrated oil and gas company, Royal Dutch Shell plc RDS.A was recently forced to halt part of its gas operations in its Waterton complex in southern Alberta due to uncontrolled wildfire that erupted nearby.

Current Situation

The company had to shut down operations at 24 natural gas wells and associated pipelines on a precautionary basis. The evacuation process is on as workers were withdrawn from the facility, except those who are engaged in performing critical services. The company is monitoring the fire closely. Immediate evacuation plan for the employees who have stayed put is in place.

The wildfire also poses a threat to Shell's Yarrow Canyon facility located 2.5 kilometers away. The fire raged through Waterton Lakes National Park due to strong winds. Firefighters in the area are working to bring the wildfire under control.

About Waterton Project

Along with multiple natural gas wells, the Waterton complex has a sour gas processing plant. Production capacity from the project is around 179 million cubic feet per day. Apart from sour gas, the company produces methane, liquid natural gas, condensate and sulfur from the Waterton assets. The facility is located south-west of Pincher Creek. The facility has fire-resistant large gravel pads around it, which can reduce the amount of damage if the fire reaches the facility.

About the Company

Headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, Shell explores for and extracts crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The company transports oil and gas, converts natural gas to liquids to produce and market fuels and other products. It also extracts bitumen from mined oil sands and turns it into synthetic crude oil. Shell also generates electricity from the wind. The company divides its operations into four major segments: Upstream, Downstream, Corporate and Integrated Gas.

In terms of assets, Shell owns a strong and diversified portfolio of global energy businesses that offer attractive long-term growth opportunities. The groups strong inventory of development projects should help volume growth in the long run.

Story continues

Shells revenues, earnings and cash flow have been significantly hurt by the three-year commodity bear market, while attacks on its local establishments by Nigerian militants have created another major problem.

Price Performance

Shells stock has gained 5.9% year to date against 2.2% fall of the industry it belongs to.

Zacks Rank and Stocks to Consider

Shell carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Some better-ranked stocks in the oil and energy sector are Lonestar Resources US Inc. LONE, Range Resources Corporation RRC and Subsea 7 SA SUBCY, each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Lonestar Resources sales for 2017 are expected to surge 60.2% year over year. The company delivered a positive earnings surprise of 62.5% in the second quarter of 2017.

Range Resources sales for the third quarter of 2017 are expected to increase 27% year over year. The company delivered an average positive earnings surprise of 51.8% in the last four quarters.

Subseas sales for 2017 are expected to increase 11.6% year over year. The company delivered an average positive earnings surprise of 83.8% in the last four quarters.

New Report: An Investors Guide to Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks have become more frequent and destructive than ever. In fact, theyre expected to cause $6 trillion per year in damage by 2020.

The cybersecurity industry is expanding quickly in response to these threats. In fact, a projected $170 billion per year will be spent to protect consumer and corporate assets. Zacks has just released Cybersecurity: An Investors Guide to Locking Down Profits which reveals 4 promising investment candidates.

Download the new report now>>



Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report



Subsea 7 SA (SUBCY) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Royal Dutch Shell PLC (RDS.A) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Range Resources Corporation (RRC) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Lonestar Resources US Inc. (LONE) : Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment Research
By Paul McLeary with Adam Rawnsley Trump to the U.N. On the eve of a critical U.N. General Assembly meeting that kicks off on Monday, leaders from around the world have prepared their own strategies for how to handle President Donald Trumps America first agenda as the White House beats the war drums in ...

By Paul McLeary with Adam Rawnsley

Trump to the U.N. On the eve of a critical U.N. General Assembly meeting that kicks off on Monday, leaders from around the world have prepared their own strategies for how to handle President Donald Trumps America first agenda as the White House beats the war drums in North Korea and Iran, and continues to threaten to pull out of trade and climate deals.

FPs Colum Lynch and Robbie Gramer will be on the ground in New York this week to track the comings and goings of the delegates. Lynch writes today that there could be reason to pay heed to the rest of the world: The divisions over Iran and climate change complicate efforts by the Trump administration to rally the world behind a tougher response to North Korea, which has tested powerful nuclear devices and long range missiles.

Show of force. There was some international cooperation on Sunday, when U.S., South Korean, and Japanese warplanes staged a major show of force over the Korean peninsula, releasing live weapons during a joint training exercise. The flight was in response to North Koreas launch of an intermediate range ballistic missile over Japan on September 14, according to a statement from the U.S. Pacific Command. The mission included two B-1B Lancer bombers, four U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightnings, four South Korean F-15K fighters, and four Japanese F-2 fighters.

North Korea will be destroyed. The exercise came hours after U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley warned Sunday that if Pyongyang continues with its nuclear and ballistic missile tests, North Korea will be destroyed. And we all know that. And none of us want that. None of us want warwere trying every other possibility that we have, but theres a whole lot of military options on the table.

Haley later told CNN that if the Washington exhausts its diplomatic options on North Korea, the U.S. military would take care of it. Haley continued, We wanted to be responsible and go through all diplomatic means to get their attention first. If that doesnt work, General Mattis will take care of it.

Story continues

U.S. Russia meet early. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met Sunday evening in New York where they discussed Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward, State department spokesperson Heather Nauert said. The Russian foreign ministry added that the two discussed cooperation on the Syrian crisis and other aspects of the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as the status of implementation of the Minsk agreements, in Ukraine.

Russians bomb U.S. allies in Syria. The meeting came a day after the U.S. accused Russian aircraft of bombing U.S.-backed forces and their American advisors in Syria, a strike that injured six Syrian Democratic Forces, but left the Americans unhurt.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., told reporters in Europe on Sunday that an existing hotline between the two sides didnt work, during the incident, leading to a call with his Russian counterpart, Chief of the General Staff of Russias armed forces, Gen. Valery Geramisov Saturday night. Dunford proposed that the countries battlefield commanders in charge of forces in Syria should be in closer contact as U.S.-backed, and Russian-backed forces converge on the last Islamic State stronghold in Deir Ezzur to address the fact that the enemy moves freely back and forth across the Euphrates River.

POTUS Pentagon cram session. During a late July trip to the Pentagon, Trumps national security team, alarmed by the presidents frequent questioning about the value of a robust American presence around the world, slipped a larger, globally-focused briefing into his update on the plan for Afghanistan, the AP reports. More:

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson organized the July 20 session to lay out the case for maintaining far-flung outposts  and to present it, using charts and maps, in a way the businessman-turned-politician would appreciate.

To be successful, Mattis and Tillerson decided they should use talking points and commentary with which they believed Trump would be most familiar: the role that the military, intelligence officers and diplomats play in making the world safe for American businesses, like The Trump Organization, to operate and expand abroad. American troops provide stability, diplomats push rule of law and anti-corruption measures and the intelligence community provides context and analysis that drive the first two, the briefers explained, according to the officials.

More Pentagon and Trump. The Pentagon asked President Donald Trump to hold off on his talk of Islamic terrorism during his recent speech there commemorating the 16th anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. And people are noticing that he has mostly dropped the word Islamic when talking about terrorism lately. Not everyone is thrilled, and as usual, Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster is taking the heat.

Welcome to SitRep. As always, please send any tips, thoughts or national security events to paul.mcleary@foreignpolicy.com or via Twitter: @paulmcleary.

The Four Nos. We do not seek regime change, we do not seek a regime collapse, we do not seek an accelerated reunification of the peninsula, and we do not seek a reason to send our forces north of the demilitarized zone, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on CBSs Face the Nation reiterating what he calls the Four Nos of U.S. policy towards North Korea.

Cuba. Tillerson also said a proposal to close the newly-opened U.S. embassy in Cuba is under review in the wake of a series of bizarre attacks on American diplomats that have caused hearing loss and brain injuries. Its a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered, Tillerson said.

Defectors. South Korea is witnessing a drop in the number of defectors arriving from North Korea with 780 North Koreans fleeing to the South in the first eight months of 2017  a 13 percent drop over the same period last year. The vast majority of defectors, around 57 percent, are simple laborers with only around 4 percent defecting from the North Korean military.

London. British authorities have arrested two men in connection to what they say was a terrorist bombing on the London Underground on Friday, an attack subsequently claimed in a statement from the Islamic State. Britain downgraded its terrorism threat level from critical to severe following the arrests.

Foreign fighters. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says a 16 year old German girl found in Mosul after fleeing home to join the Islamic State could face the death penalty under Iraqs judicial system. You know teenagers under certain laws, they are accountable for their actions especially if the act is a criminal activity when it amounts to killing innocent people, Abadi said.

Election. Hamas says its ready to allow new elections for the first time since 2006 and open to forming a unity government with rival Palestinian political party Fatah following negotiations with Egypt. The concessions, similar to those made in previous negotiations with Egypt, come as Hamas has become increasingly reliant on the Egyptian government to provide humanitarian aid for residents of the terrorist groups enclave in the Gaza strip.

Your move. In the face of escalating rhetoric from the Trump administration about its displeasure with the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal and Tehrans compliance with it, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says any wrong move by the U.S. on the nuclear issue will meet with a stiff response from Iran.

The slows. We are almost positive that, a lot of time when these [Iraqi] commanders got a case of the slows as, as Lincoln would say about [General George B.] McClellan, we could trace that back to Iranian pressure  an unnamed senior U.S. military official tells Defense One that the U.S. suspected Iran had pressured Iraqi commanders to slow down military operations against the Islamic State in order to allow Iranian-backed Shia militias to take the lead.

Qatar. Qatar has signed a letter of intent with British defense contractor BAE to buy 24 Typhoon jets in what British officials are calling their first major defense contract with Qatar.

Myanmar. In a Facebook post, Commander in chief of the Myanmar Armed Forces Gen Min Aung Hlaing pushed back against the growing international condemnation of military operations against the Rohingya Muslim minority in Rakhine state, calling Rohingya extremist Bengalis and denying them recognition as an ethnic group. The ongoing military crackdown against the small insurgency led by militants from the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, however, has radicalized a number of Rohingya, helping the group recruit more fighters across Rakhine state.

Cold War hero. Retired Soviet Air Defense Force Lt. Col. Stanislav Petrov, the man who may have very well saved all human life on earth during a little-known incident in 1983, passed away in May according to his son. Petrov was on duty at a Soviet early warning radar system during an especially tense period in the Cold War when an alert signaled that a satellite had detected the telltale flash of American nuclear missiles being launched  only later proven to be reflected sunlight misinterpreted by the system. Petrovs recognition that the warning was likely a false alarm helped prevent the Soviet Union from rushing to order a counter-attack and triggering a nuclear war.
Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair described three trends that collectively drove both Britains vote to leave the EU in June 2016 and the November 2016 election of Donald Trump.

Speaking at the 2017 Concordia Annual Summit (streamed on Yahoo Finance), Blair asserted that feelings of cultural alienation, economic alienation, and the revolutionary phenomenon of social media converged to generate the unexpected outcomes in the UK and U.S.

I think the drivers behind Brexit and the election of Donald Trump were roughly the same, Blair told Susan Glasser of Politico. A large section of people feeling culturally alienated, society changing in ways they didnt like  issues to do with immigration for example. And then [people feeling] economically alienated post-financial crisis, communities of people feeling left behind, feeling marginalized.

And so these very powerful forces  combined with the extraordinarily powerful medium of social media today, which is itself a revolutionary phenomenon,  created this great surge of discontent that led to these two results.

Tony Blair at the Concordia Summit.

Blair, who served as the UK prime minister from 1997 to 2007, argued that Brexit is a destiny changing decision that should be avoided if possible.

To take ourselves out of the biggest political union and the largest commercial market right on our doorstep, to which we are now joined by the Channel Tunnel physically, I think is going to diminish us and relegate us as a country, Blair said. I think this is something that if we can avoid it, we should.

He added that he doesnt know if Brexit could be undone at this point. Nonetheless, automatically going through with Brexit is a bit like agreeing to a house swap when you havent seen the other house  When you actually see the other house  you see the neighborhood, you see what it looks like, you do the structural survey  you may change your mind.

The United Kingdom (dark green) and the European Union (light green).

Blair noted that the world will be watching Trumps Tuesday speech at the UN General Assembly to see if the administrations America First policy translates to international isolationism.

Story continues

People will be looking to see if there is some clarity and coherence around where America stands, said Blair, who spoke at the UNGA several times. Still a prominent political voice as founder of the nonprofit Tony Blair Institute, Blair added: The world needs a strong America and it needs a clear America. And it needs an America thats prepared to stand with its allies and stand up to its foes and generally try to make the world a better place.

Asked about Trumps use of Twitter, Blair politely criticized the practice. Trying to reduce complicated things to 140 characters is, Blair said, pausing for a few seconds, Is not productive.

While saying that he would not be active on Twitter if he were still prime minister, Blair wondered if balanced ideas could actually gain traction on social media.

Is it possible to get inspiration and enthusiasm behind a sensible way forward? Blair asked. Or does the way that politics is conducted today mean that unless you have an extreme message, people just dont find it interesting?

READ MORE:

Why independent America is the No.1 geopolitical threat of 2017
Ty Cobb

President Donald Trump's personal defense attorneys are apparently butting heads with the White House counsel as the FBI's investigation into whether the Trump campaign colluded with Russia heats up.

The New York Times reported on Sunday that Ty Cobb, the white-collar criminal-defense attorney leading Trump's outside legal team, had sparred with the White House counsel, Don McGahn, over how much to cooperate with the investigation, led by special counsel Robert Mueller.

During a lunch last week with John Dowd, a fellow Trump attorney, Cobb reportedly called another White House lawyer a "McGahn spy" and said McGahn had "a couple documents locked in a safe," to which it appeared Cobb wanted access. A Times reporter sitting nearby overheard the conversation.

Cobb was explaining to Dowd that he wanted as many documents as possible to be turned over to Mueller, according to The Times, to speed up the investigation. McGahn, on the other hand, has resisted being too forthcoming because he thinks Trump will be able to assert executive privilege over many of their interactions.

It is unclear to which documents Cobb was referring. But one of them could be the original draft of a letter Trump wrote in May with his adviser Stephen Miller outlining his reasons for wanting to fire James Comey, the FBI director. McGahn heavily edited the letter, which he reportedly thought would be legally problematic, before a copy was given to the Justice Department. It was ultimately never sent to Comey.

The advice McGahn gave Trump about that letter  and the original draft  may prove pivotal in the investigation, which Mueller has expanded to include whether the president tried to obstruct justice by firing Comey.

"If he said anything along the lines of 'There's potential criminal liability if you shut down this investigation,' that would be extraordinarily powerful evidence against Trump," said Renato Mariotti, a former federal prosecutor.

Story continues

Mueller's team wants to interview McGahn and a handful of other White House staffers. But before fully cooperating with investigators, McGahn reportedly wants Cobb to tell him whether Trump is planning on exerting executive or attorney-client privilege over their communications, so he can establish which details he can divulge and which he cannot.

If McGahn is called to testify before a federal grand jury, however, his conversations with Trump may not be protected by attorney-client privilege.

A federal court of appeals ruled in 1998, at the height of the Monica Lewinsky scandal, that deputy White House counsel Bruce Lindsey had to submit to the special prosecutor's questions about President Bill Clinton's relationship with Lewinsky. In that case, the court held that there was no attorney-client privilege between a government lawyer and a government employee as it related to a grand-jury inquiry.

A pattern of indiscretion

At the restaurant in Washington, DC, Cobb also blamed another colleague for "some of these earlier leaks" and trying to oust Jared Kushner, Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law, according to The Times. Kushner is also a subject in the Russia investigation, and Trump's attorneys earlier this year mulled urging Kushner to leave the White House amid concerns over his Russia ties.

After The Times contacted the White House about Cobb's conversation, McGahn "erupted" at Trump's attorney, and John Kelly, the chief of staff, criticized Cobb for his indiscretion, the newspaper reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

This is not the first time in recent weeks that Cobb has invited scrutiny.

When Business Insider reached out to Cobb earlier this month with follow-up questions after he criticized an earlier article about Mueller's obstruction-of-justice investigation, he asked the reporter whether she was on drugs.

In a later exchange with Jeff Jetton, an amateur Trump-Russia sleuth, Cobb defended his decision to join Trump's legal team and appeared to refer to himself and Kelly as the "adults in the room."

Cobb also mentioned the Russia investigation  which he called "bulls---" that was "totally political limiting Russian cooperation against" North Korea  and said he "walked away from $4 million annually" to join Trump's legal team.

The next day, Business Insider reported that Cobb had engaged in a lengthy email exchange with a prankster posing as the White House social-media director, Dan Scavino, during which Cobb asked whether there was "any drone time left" when discussing a Business Insider reporter he described as "insane."

Cobb did not respond to a request for comment on this story.

NOW WATCH: How Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson could make a real run as president  according to someone who's known him since 1999





More From Business Insider


The U.S. Justice Department is said to be investigating the questionable sale of stock by Equifax executives in advance of the company's public announcement of its massive data breach. The investigation is said to include U.S. prosecutors in Atlanta, the FBI and the Securities and Exchange Commission, according to a report this morning from Bloomberg.

Three executives, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate VP John Gamble, President of U.S. Information Solutions Joseph Loughran and President of Workforce Solutions Rodolfo Ploder all sold substantive amounts of Equifax stock between the time the company learned of the hack and the date the hack was publicly announced. These trades, amounting to $1.8 million, saved the three executives from feeling the financial sting of the announcements.

Equifax stock has plummeted in the days since 143 million people learned that their Social Security numbers and driver license information was put in jeopardy by the company that failed to patch a known bug.

Equifax told us on September 7 that, "The three executives who sold a small percentage of their Equifax shares on Tuesday, August 1, and Wednesday, August 2, had no knowledge that an intrusion had occurred at the time they sold their shares.

While it is possible that the executives were not made aware of the breach before they sold their shares, it would be an almost unbelievable coincidence. A breach of the size faced by Equifax would have almost certainly been top of mind of every individual at the company, particularly key executives. To make matters worse, these trades were not pre-scheduled before the hack.

If the executives were aware of the hack in advance of the public and traded on that information, they would have violated insider trading laws. And beyond even the law, profiting on the back of potential negligence is pretty disgusting.

Members of the U.S. Senate and House have been putting pressure on Equifax to explain the trades in question. The pressure from both inside and outside the government seems to have culminated in a formal investigation.

We are reaching out to Equifax and the U.S. Justice Department for comment and will update this post if we hear back.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects the command of Korean People's Army Unit 534, in an undated photo released by the Korean Central News Agency on January 12, 2014.

A majority of Americans, 58 percent, would support military intervention in North Korea if the U.S. ultimately fails to achieve its goals via peaceful means, according to a new Gallup poll.

The last time Gallup asked this question, in 2003, 47 percent felt the same way.

There's also a strong partisan divide on this issue. The vast majority of Republicans, 82 percent, would support military intervention, compared with 37 percent of Democrats.

At the same time, most Americans, 59 percent, do not think an attack from North Korea is imminent.

North Korea has been particularly aggressive over the past year, apparently making progress in its efforts to develop a nuclear weapon capable of reaching the United States. In the past month alone, North Korea has launched two missiles over Japan.

President Donald Trump has responded to provocations from the reclusive nation with bombastic rhetoric, at one point threatening North Korea with "fire and fury."

The U.S. has no formal diplomatic relations with North Korea but has tried to convince the regime to end its nuclear program by actively pushing for harsh economic sanctions via the United Nations. Despite such sanctions, North Korea shows no signs of relenting.

On Friday, several top Trump administration officials gave their thoughts on the current situation, with some stating that military options are definitely on the table.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said North Korea's recent actions endanger "the entire world."

"For those who have said, and been commenting about a lack of a military option, there is a military option," National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster said. "Now it is not what we would prefer to do."

"What we are seeing is they continue to be provocative, they continue to be reckless," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said. She then noted that North Korea is already crippled due to sanctions imposed by the U.N. and that there's not much more that can be done on that end.

Story continues

"Having said that, I have no problem with kicking it to [Defense Secretary James] Mattis, because I think he has plenty of options," Haley added.

Indeed, it seems both the U.S. public and the government are increasingly viewing military action against North Korea as a viable option.

Related Articles
North Korea is under crippling sanctions imposed for carrying out nuclear and ballistic missile tests, but UN resolutions specify that these should not affect humanitarian aid (AFP Photo/STR) (KCNA VIA KNS/AFP/File)

The UN Security Council will on Thursday hold a ministerial-level meeting on the threat from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction that will focus on enforcing sanctions on North Korea, diplomats said.

The United States called the meeting that will be held during the annual General Assembly gathering of world leaders at the United Nations.

The purpose of the meeting "is to discuss ways the Security Council can better enforce the resolutions it has adopted to prevent the spread of the world's most dangerous weapons," said a US concept note on the meeting obtained by AFP on Saturday.

The Security Council this week imposed a new raft of sanctions on North Korea, slapping an export ban on textiles, freezing work permits to North Korean guest workers and placing a cap on oil supplies.

The impact of those sanctions depends largely on whether China, North Korea's ally and main economic partner, will fully implement them and on Russia, which is hosting tens of thousands of North Korean workers.

During the council meeting, countries will address ways to stem missile and nuclear technology to "the world's most dangerous actors," the note said.

The meeting, held at a ministerial level, will highlight global unity in confronting the crisis with North Korea, diplomats said.

North Korea on Friday fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile over Japan, in response to a new round of UN sanctions imposed over its sixth nuclear test.

The council met behind closed doors on Friday and condemned the "highly-provocative" missile launch, but it did not threaten further sanctions.

Japan stressed that the focus must be on fully implementing the recent sanctions resolutions to put pressure on North Korea to come to the table to negotiate an end to its nuclear and missile programs.

If fully implemented, the sanctions would deny North Korea more than $2 billion in revenue from exports and other economic activities, according to US officials.

China and Russia have been pushing a proposal to kick-start talks with North Korea with a freeze on the country's nuclear and missile tests in exchange for a suspension of US-South Korea military drills.

The United States has rejected that proposal as "insulting" and maintains it will only enter into talks with Pyongyang if it halts all missile and nuclear tests unilaterally.
David Orrell | CNBC. But Lee cautions that businesses still don't know the full consequences of President Trump's tax plan.

It's going to take more than a double-digit percentage drop in a week to shake strategist Tom Lee's faith in the potential ofbitcoin.

"I unequivocally believe bitcoin is your best investment to the end of the year," the Fundstrat co-founder told CNBC,standing by similar remarkshe made Aug. 9 on"Fast Money."

He said on the program Thursday that bitcoin should be viewed as a store of value like gold was in the 1980s when some investors didn't trust dollars.

"It's not worth it to look at bitcoin two months, two weeks ahead," Lee argued, saying he still believes each bitcoin will be worth $25,000 in five years or about 600 percent higher than current levels.

In early trading on Friday, bitcoin fell below the $3,000 level before turning higher in volatile action. But the cryptocurrency was still about 15 percent lower for the entire week by midday.

In the past 12 months, bitcoin has spiked about 500 percent.

But China's recent crackdown on bitcoin exchanges there has created some forced selling, Lee said. But he stressed investors in the digital currency aren't strangers to these kinds of swings.

From mid-June to mid-July, bitcoin fell about 30 percent and then more than doubled to an all-time of over $4,900 at the beginning of September.

To critics, like JPMorgan Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon, who've called bitcoin a fraud, Lee advised investors to be "on the other side, very strong."

On Tuesday, at the CNBC-Institutional Investor Delivering Alpha conference, Dimon called the digital currency a "fraud" and predicted governments will step in. "Wait until someone gets hurt. Wait until it's used for illicit purposes, which it's somewhat used for illicit purposes. They close it down. That's my point," Dimon said.

Lee also said bitcoin can't be in a "bubble," another assertion of bitcoin doubters, because so few people actually own it. "I think it's still very early stages."

Story continues

"We have some data. There's only about 300,000 holders of at least $5,000 of bitcoin," he said. "That's like saying the iPhone was a bubble in 2007 four days into the sale because there were 500,000 iPhones sold."

Noted economist Mohamed El-Erian on Wednesday told "Squawk Box" that bitcoin is certainly a "disruptive" technology but won't see widespread use. "The current pricing assume massive adoption," Allianz's chief economic advisor and former Pimco chief said. That's the reason why he thinks bitcoin should be worth about half today's value.





More From CNBC
A US F-35B stealth fighter seen taxiing at the US Marine Iwakuni Air Station in Japan in January (AFP Photo/JIJI PRESS)

The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

The flight was to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets flew alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on August 31.

Separately, China and Russia began a joint naval exercise east of the Korean peninsula.

The drill will be held in waters between the Russian port of Vladivostok and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, further north, the Chinese defence ministry said.

Chinese independent military analyst Wei Dongxu said it was mainly a submarine hunting exercise and not directly related to the situation on the Korean peninsula.

"However, it demonstrates a common determination to maintain regional stability and deter forces or countries from trying to move into the northeast Asia area," he said.

- 'Strongest possible measures' -

The UN Security Council last week imposed a fresh set of sanctions on North Korea over its missile and atomic weapons programmes, though Washington toned down its original proposals to secure support from China and Russia.

Moscow backs Beijing's proposal for a freeze on North Korea's nuclear and missile tests in exchange for a suspension of US-South Korea military drills, which China blames for fanning regional tensions.

Story continues

US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has rejected the proposal as "insulting" and said that if Pyongyang should pose a serious threat to the US or its allies, "North Korea will be destroyed".

North Korea's weapons drive is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly later Monday and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific last Friday, responding to the new UN sanctions with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse".

The US president has not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster has said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.
White House staff is so worried about Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's possible collusion with Donald Trump's campaign that some in the West Wing are suspicious their colleagues are wearing a wire.

In private, White House officials have said they are afraid their co-workers may be secretly recording their conversations to pass along to Mueller, the investigations special counsel, according to a report in The New York Times Sunday.

Mueller has hired 17 prosecutors for his investigation into whether Trump's campaign helped Russia in its efforts to influence the 2016 election. Among these lawyers are experts in transnational crime and money laundering.

Robert Mueller, special counsel

Joshua Roberts/Reuters

White House staff has begun hiring its own lawyers to defend themselves as Mueller seeks to interview them. In early September, White House communications director Hope Hicks hired a personal attorney, according to Politico.

Mueller is expected to interview Hicks as well as former press secretary Sean Spicer and former chief of staff Reince Priebus. Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushners spokesman Josh Raffel, deputy White House counsel James Burnham, and White House counsel Don McGahn are also wanted for questioning, according to The Washington Post.

Kushner, a senior adviser to the president, has had his own attorneys working on his defense for months. McGahn has also hired his own attorney. Like the others, McGahn is expected to answer questions about Trumps firing of former FBI Director James Comey, who Trump said was kicked out for his work on the Russia investigation. Mueller is reportedly investigating whether the firing could be considered an obstruction of justice.

Read more: New legislation to protect Russia investigations Robert Mueller from Trump

Comey testified to the Senate Intelligence Committee in early June that Trump urged him to drop a strand of the FBIs Russia investigation looking at fired national security adviser Michael Flynn.

Story continues

Flynn misrepresented his contacts with Russian officials during the campaign and was later revealed to have been working as a foreign agent on behalf of Turkey.

Key White House aides are being targeted for questioning because they were involved in crafting a public response to Flynns contacts with Russian officials. Hicks is also likely to be questioned about the White House response after it was discovered that Donald Trump Jr. met at Trump Tower in June 2016 with a Russian lawyer after being promised compromising material from the Kremlin on candidate Hillary Clinton.

As the presidents top White House lawyer, McGahn is debating how much the administration should hand over to Mueller, according to a conversation between Trumps top personal lawyer, John Dowd, and Ty Cobb, an attorney managing the White House response to the Russia investigation. A New York Times reporter overheard the conversation at Washington D.C.s BLT Steak, a steakhouse not far from the White House, last week.

Cobbs approach is to turn over as many emails and documents requested by Muellers team in order to exonerate President Trump as quickly as possible. McGahn has pushed a counterargument that Cobbs approach would set a precedent that would weaken the presidential office's executive privilege as well as the privileged conversations and advice the president seeks from top lawyers.

The White House counsels office is being very conservative with this stuff, Cobb was overheard telling Dowd. Our view is, were not hiding anything, he said, noting that McGahn has got a couple documents locked in a safe.

Related Articles
IRBIL, IRAQ  In the capital of Iraq's Kurdistan region, traffic cameras nail speeders, and trash thrown on the street is whisked away by morning. High-level officials from all over the country dine at five-star hotels, and parks, malls, and cafes are packed on nights and weekends.

People speak Kurdish, listen to Kurdish music, marry Kurdish spouses, and eat Kurdish food. There are plenty of Arab residents and visitors, but they come with permission from Kurdish authorities after passing through Kurdish military checkpoints.

For many people here, the upcoming referendum on Kurdish independence from Iraq is obvious.

"Any region that has its own culture and language has the right to be independent," says Saman Sadq, the owner of a nuts and sweets shop. "Forget politics. We need to think of our future as Kurdish people."

Opponents of the referendum are many and varied. The Iraqi Parliament, opposition parties within the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, Western leaders, and Iraq's neighboring countries have come out against the vote. Some want the referendum canceled; others want it postponed.

Karzan Gardi, who heads the Irbil election office for Gorran, one of Kurdistan's main opposition parties, says, "There are many signs there will be a backlash."

To Vote or Not to Vote?

The Gorran party wants to postpone the ballot. The Kurdish opposition sees the referendum as ill-timed and potentially a catalyst for conflict.

Many Western countries are also lobbying for postponement. They see the referendum as potentially damaging to the fight with the Islamic State (IS) militants, who still hold portions of Iraq.

Kurdish and Iraqi forces have been allies against IS, but a vote for independence would skyrocket tensions and possibly incite violence within Iraq. Both the Kurdish government and Baghdad claim parts of Iraq, including Kirkuk, one of the country's biggest oil cities. Additionally, the vote would certainly anger Iraq's neighbors, also allied against IS.

The Iraqi Parliament in Baghdad voted this week to reject the vote, promising to use "any means necessary" to prevent the referendum.

On September 14, representatives from the United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom met with Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, asking him to postpone the referendum. In the past, Barzani has been defiant against calls for postponement.

Barzani, however, has also noted that the international community may be able to persuade his government to postpone the ballot if it offered an alternate plan and some kind of guarantee to help Kurdistan transition into independence safely.

After the meeting, a statement from the Kurdistan president's office said the international delegation had proposed an alternative to a September 25 vote that Kurdish leaders will discuss and will announce a "stance in the near future."

The Staunchest Opponents

Western officials fear the referendum will destabilize the region as Iraq's neighbors Turkey, Iran, and Syria oppose the ballot, apparently worried a "yes" vote will fuel established Kurdish independence movements at home.

Among these movements are militant groups like the PKK, recognized internationally as a terrorist organization and the Turkish government's enemy No. 1. Other Kurdish groups, like the YPG in Syria, are viewed as terrorists by Turkey and are armed and trained against IS by the United States.

Turkey's Foreign Ministry called the referendum a "historic mistake" on September 14, warning that Kurdish Iraq would "pay a price" if it goes through with the vote.

The only country in the region that supports the referendum outright is Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying Israel "supports the legitimate efforts of the Kurdish people to achieve their own state." Israel has no official diplomatic ties with Baghdad.

According to Barzani, foreign opposition and threats are not factors in the decision on whether to hold the referendum.

"If someone wants to try to break the will of the people of Kurdistan by force," he said, according to local news, "the field is open for them to come and give it a try."

Independence Dream

Kurdistan is a historical and cultural region overlapping the borders of Syria, Turkey, Iraq, and Iran.

Divided by an early 20th century European deal to divvy up "spheres of influence" in the Middle East, Kurdish people are known for harboring a near-universal dream of an independent state.

"The Kurdish people have suffered so much destruction," explains Ari Nanakali, a senior member of the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party at his office in Irbil. "I expect all Kurdish people here will vote, and 75 percent will vote 'yes.' "

Under President Saddam Hussein in the late 1980s, Kurdish people in Iraq suffered genocide, chemical attacks, mass displacements, and forced disappearances. As many as 182,000 Kurdish people were murdered during the campaign.

Kurdistan in Iraq is one of the most secure places in the region, with an economy that was expanding rapidly until recent years. Kurds believe it can start growing again.

"When we are a country, we will make international trade agreements," Nanakali said. "It will make us stronger."

-- Heather Murdock reported this story for the Voice Of America
Voters in the Pakistani city of Lahore are heading to the polls for a closely watched by-election caused when former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif stepped down in July.



The Supreme Court disqualified Sharif from holding office over a ruling that he was dishonest in a corruption inquiry.

His wife, Kulsoom Nawaz, is running for the seat in Lahore, Sharif's political stronghold, but is currently in London for cancer treatment.

Instead, her daughter Maryam Nawaz led the campaign for Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

More than 320,000 voters are taking part in the vote, which is being contested by all the major parties.

The Supreme Court barred Sharif from office after an inquiry into the 2016 Panama Papers linked his family to offshore companies. Sharif denies any wrongdoing.

In August, the PML-N elected a Sharif loyalist, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, as prime minister.

Some party officials have suggested Sharif's wife could become prime minister once elected to parliament.

Kulsoom, who has been married to Sharif for more than 40 years, does not hold political office but is a high-profile figure in Pakistan.

Based on reporting by AFP, Reuters, and the BBC
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bluestone Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE:BSR) ("Bluestone" or the "Company") today announced its Board of Directors has approved the commencement of the Feasibility Study (the "Feasibility Study") on the Company's Cerro Blanco Project located in Guatemala.



Earlier this year, in conjunction with the acquisition of the project from Goldcorp, the Company released a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) on Cerro Blanco that indicated a robust project generating an after tax internal rate of return of 43.9% and an NPV of US$317 million using US$1,250 per ounce of gold.

Following the positive findings from the PEA, Bluestones Board of Directors has elected to advance directly to a Feasibility Study that is expected to be completed by the end of 2018. The Feasibility Study will be led by JDS Energy & Mining Inc. ("JDS") and contributed to by Hatch Ltd., Kirkham Geosystems Ltd., Knight Piesold Ltd. and Stantec Inc.

Appointment of Technical Advisor

The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of A.L (Alf) Hills as a Technical Advisor to assist the Company with oversight on the Feasibility Study. Alf will lead the Technical Advisory Committee that will be established over the coming months to assist Bluestone management throughout the feasibility study process in evaluation and review of key aspects of the program.

Mr. Hills is registered as a Professional Engineer in the Province of British Columbia and holds a degree in Mining and Mineral Process Engineering with over 40 years of international mine evaluation, development, start-up operating, general management and board experience. Mr. Hills spent 26 years of his career with Placer Dome Inc, where he held a number of positions including Vice President Evaluations, Mine General Manager at Placers Australian Kidston Gold Mine and in Papua New Guinea in various construction, start-up and operating positions. Mr. Hills also participated in developing the CIM Best Practice guidelines for Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimation and was a corporate member of the SME Resources and Reserve Committee.

Darren Klinck, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are pleased to be launching the Cerro Blanco feasibility study which is an important next step as we further evaluate the opportunities for this high-grade, small footprint underground gold project. Mr. Klinck also added, We are very fortunate to have someone with the depth of global experience that Alf Hills has to join Bluestone in an advisory capacity. Alf will play an important role as we establish the Technical Advisory Committee and work closely with Bluestone and JDS as the study advances.

About Bluestone Resources

Bluestone Resources is a mineral exploration and development company that is focused on advancing its 100% owned Cerro Blanco gold and Mita geothermal projects located in Guatemala. The Cerro Blanco Project economics, as disclosed in the Company's Cerro Blanco Preliminary Economic Assessment which is available at www.sedar.com, and updated mineral resource estimate for Cerro Blanco indicates a robust project with an expected nine-year mine life producing 952,000 ounces of gold and 3,141,000 ounces of silver. Initial capital expenditures estimated in the PEA to fund construction and commissioning is estimated at US$170.8 million with All-in sustaining cash costs (as defined per World Gold Council guidelines, less corporate general and administration costs) estimated to be US$490 per ounce of gold produced. The Company trades under the symbol BSR on the TSX Venture Exchange.

On Behalf of Bluestone Resources Inc.

Darren Klinck

Darren Klinck

President and Chief Executive Officer

About JDS Energy & Mining

JDS is a Vancouver-based, international engineering firm that has produced feasibility studies for some of premier gold projects globally. JDS take projects from the early conceptual vision, right through every stage of planning and development, to the establishment of a fully operational business. JDS offers extensive mining and mine management experience including: mine planning, production & general mine engineering, infrastructure analysis, process design, regulatory compliance, cost estimating, economic analysis and project management.

For further information, please contact:

Bluestone Resources

Phone: +1 604 646 4534

info@bluestoneresources.ca

www.bluestoneresources.ca

Cautionary Language

The PEA is preliminary in nature, it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the PEA will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

The scientific and technical disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by John Robins, Executive Chairman of the Company, who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, forward-looking statements). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that Bluestone Resources Inc. (Bluestone or the Company) believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including, without limitation: the proposed timeline and benefits of the Feasibility Study; statements about the Companys plans for its mineral properties; Bluestones business strategy, plans and outlook; the future financial or operating performance of Bluestone; capital expenditures, corporate general and administration expenses and exploration and development expenses; expected working capital requirements; the future financial estimates of the Cerro Blanco Project economics, including estimates of capital costs of constructing mine facilities and bringing a mine into production and of sustaining capital costs, estimates of operating costs and total costs, net present value and economic returns; proposed production timelines and rates; funding availability; resource estimates; and future exploration and operating plans are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to Bluestone and often use words such as expects, plans, anticipates, estimates, intends, may or variations thereof or the negative of any of these terms.

All forward-looking statements are made based on the Companys current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. Generally, these assumptions include, among others: the ability of Bluestone to carry on exploration and development activities; the price of gold, silver and other metals; there being no material variations in the current tax and regulatory environment; the exchange rates among the Canadian dollar, Guatemalan quetzal and the United States dollar remaining consistent with current levels; the presence of and continuity of metals at the Cerro Blanco Project at estimated grades; the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices and within estimated delivery times; metals sales prices and exchange rates assumed; appropriate discount rates applied to the cash flows in economic analyses; tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the proposed mining operation; the availability of acceptable financing; anticipated mining losses and dilution; success in realizing proposed operations; anticipated timelines for community consultations and the impact of those consultations on the regulatory approval process.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, Bluestone. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: risks and uncertainties related to expected production rates, timing and amount of production and total costs of production; risks and uncertainties related to ability to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits, or surface rights; risks associated with technical difficulties in connection with mining development activities; risks and uncertainties related to the accuracy of mineral resource estimates and estimates of future production, future cash flow, total costs of production and diminishing quantities or grades of mineral resources; risks associated with geopolitical uncertainty and political and economic instability in Guatemala; risks and uncertainties related to interruptions in production; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Companys expectations; uncertain political and economic environments and relationships with local communities; risks relating to variations in the mineral content within the mineral identified as mineral resources from that predicted; variations in rates of recovery and extraction; developments in world metals markets; risks related to fluctuations in currency exchange rates; as well as those factors discussed under Risk Factors in the Companys Amended and Restated Annual Information Form.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Bluestone disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although Bluestone believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.
DENVER, Colo. and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sandspring Resources Ltd. (TSX-V:SSP) (OTC:SSPXF) (Sandspring or the Company) is pleased to provide an update on its Toroparu Gold Project (Toroparu or the Project) in Guyana, South America.



The saprolite resource at the Sona Hill deposit announced earlier this year provides the potential for improved economics for the Toroparu Project through an expansion of the start-up plan outlined in the project Prefeasibility Study 1

Additional saprolite resources from exploration targets near Toroparu could further enhance the economics of an expanded start-up plan

Sandspring has drill-ready saprolite targets near Toroparu on t hree additional prospects within the Sona Hill area (Sona NW, Sona SSE, and Sona W) and at Wynamu Hill where Sandspring announced a 7.51 g/t Au intercept from surface to 21.5m in saprolite in Drill Hole WYD013 2

Parameters of a 2017  2018 exploration program to test the saprolite targets have been established and support work for this program has been initiated

On February 23, 2017, Sandspring announced a pit-constrained maiden gold only resource for its Sona Hill discovery having a total Indicated resource of 195,000 Au, and Inferred resource of 241,000 ounces of Au at a cut-off grade of 0.31 g/t Au. Notably, 50,200 ounces of the total Indicated resource and 70,400 of the total Inferred resource was contained in weathered saprolite rock from surface to an average vertical depth of ~40 meters at the 0.31 g/t cut-off grade.3

Sandspring has been working with its consultants, SRK Consulting (Denver), to develop possible changes to the mine plan presented in the Toroparu Prefeasibility study to incorporate the Sona Hill Saprolite Resource Area and revise the schedule for processing the existing saprolite resource at the main Toroparu and SE zone Proven and Probable pits.

Management believes that possible revisions to the mine plan demonstrates the potential for improvement in overall project economics through expanding the initial saprolite processing phase and deferring the construction of hard rock facilities and a significant portion of total upfront capital expenditures.

Management also believes there is potential to further enhance the improvement of project economics through the extension of known saprolite resources at Sona Hill and exploration drilling of other saprolite prospect areas in proximity to Toroparu, and has developed an exploration program to be executed during 2017  2018 targeting these areas which are further described below.

Prefeasibility Mine Plan Analysis

Sandsprings Prefeasibility Study estimated ~228,000 oz average gold production per annum from 4.1 Moz proven and probable gold reserves over a 16-year mine life; US$1.25 Billion Free Cash Flow at US$1,400/oz gold price; $893 Million Free Cash Flow at US $1,260/oz gold price; and a US $501 Million pre-fresh rock production capital expense.

The Prefeasibility Study included start-up of initial production from a small scale saprolite leach plant operating while the initial hard rock mine and processing facilities were being constructed. The leach operation was projected to process ~1.2 million tons of saprolite ore per year and produce approximately 83,000 ounces of gold over a two-year period. The portion of pre-production capital expense for the saprolite leach operation was estimated at US$152.0 Million.

The 83,000 ozs of gold contained in the process feed for the start-up saprolite leach plant in the Prefeasibility Study has potentially increased significantly with the additional saprolite resources defined at Sona Hill. Total saprolite resource for the Toroparu Project including the Sona Hill saprolite is now 218,000 oz M&I at 0.9 gpt Au in 7,561 million tonnes of ore + 330,000 oz Inferred at 0.89 gpt Au in 11.06 Million tonnes of ore. Sona Hill resources also contain significant volumes of near surface higher grade saprolite ore that can be selectively processed at elevated cut-off grades.

Sandspring, with the assistance of SRK, has looked at the impact of a revised mine plan to increase the capacity of the start-up saprolite leach operation assuming increases in total gold contained in saprolite are converted to reserves. This work suggests that sufficient saprolite exists to support i) an expansion of the saprolite leach start-up to 2.2 Million tonnes per year, ii) an extension of gold production from saprolite-only leach operations for three years, and iii) deferring commencement of construction of the initial hard rock mine and processing facilities by one year.

Additional exploration drill targets near Sona Hill and at Wynamu Hill were identified in the 2016 exploration program including a gold intercept of 7.51 g/t Au intercept from surface to 21.5m in saprolite in DDH WYD013 from the reconnaissance drill program at Wynamu Hill. These drill targets provide the opportunity to identify further saprolite resources which may further enhance the saprolite project.1

Initial metallurgical test work conducted on Sona Hill saprolite cores indicate 88% leach extraction for gold at a grind of 125 microns and 96% at 75 microns over a 24-36 hour period, and 91% extraction at 106 microns for Wynamu saprolite core samples.3

2017  2018 Exploration Program:

Sandspring intends to conduct a two-phased, 12,000-15,000 meter, drill program consisting of infill, step-out, and reconnaissance drilling in Q4 2017- Q1 2018 utilizing two drill rigs in the Sona Hill and Wynamu prospect areas.

Phase 1 drilling (~6,000 m) will be focused on step-out drilling to the west (Sona W) and exploration targets to the northwest and southeast (Sona NW, Sona SSE) of the Sona Hill Resource Area, and infill drilling at Wynamu Hill.

Phase 2 (Q1 2018) will commence after analysis of assays results from the Phase 1 drill program. Based on positive assay results from Phase 1, Phase 2 will focus on infill drilling from Phase 1 at Sona Hill and Wynamu including resource infill drilling within the constrained resource pit at Sona Hill.

Sandspring geologists will conduct additional ground geophysics and geochemical surveys across the Sona Hill, Wynamu and Otomung concessions.

Sandspring estimates a total cost of drill and survey programs of C$3.5 million.

Advanced Stage Permitting, Financial Support and Hydroelectric Project

The Toroparu project is at an advanced stage of development with its Mineral Agreement & Environmental Authorization in place, and the terms of the Mining License negotiated. The Project has a metal streaming agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals that covers USD$135 Million which is ~30% of the initial capital expenditure identified in the Prefeasibility Study.

Fiore Capital (Frank Giustra) is Sandsprings largest shareholder.

Sandspring has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Govt of Guyana for development of the Kurupung Hydroelectric Project, an 80-100 megawatt run-of river project located 50 km southwest of Toroparu on the Roraima escarpment.

Rich Munson, CEO states: The work on evaluating the impact of additional gold resources from Sona Hill on the overall project economics for Toroparu has provided Sandspring with alternatives to move the Project forward in a phased program with phased pre-production capital expenditures. We believe these alternatives can improve the Projects overall economics at a variety of gold prices and quantifies the value added to the Project by continuing to explore for shallow gold-only resources in proximity to the main Toroparu deposit. The 2017-2018 Exploration Program offers a low-cost opportunity to further expand the saprolite resource and the Projects economic model. We remain committed to move the Project into production as soon as possible and the saprolite start-up project may provide an earlier start-up opportunity.

1 See NI 43-101 Technical Report, Prefeasibility Study, Toroparu Gold Project, Upper Puruni River Area, Guyana; Effective Date: May 8, 2013, Report Date: May 24, 2013 prepared by SRK Consulting (USA) (the Prefeasibility Study)

2 See Sandspring Press Release dated February 13, 2017



3 See Sandspring Press release dated February 23, 2017

Prospect Area Summaries

Location Map

Figure 1: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8106a0d-8bed-4a9e-92a4-c3b4e6701113

Sona Hill Exploration Areas

The Sona Hill gold deposit is hosted by lode-gold vein system within intrusives of intermediate composition with higher grade mineralization interspersed throughout the resource area. The gold resource is in the hanging wall above a low angle, ~300 west-dipping (toward Toroparu) shear zone with 80% of gold mineralization from 0 to 120m below surface. Gold hosting pyrite mineralization occurs mainly within tourmaline-feldspar bearing quartz veins surrounded by intense bleaching and alteration halos.

The Sona Hill drill core show widespread disseminated fine magnetite crystals within the hydrothermal halos and the strongly altered shearzone. The magnetite occurrence provides a potential geophysical marker that can help identify extensions of the gold mineralization system in the surrounding areas of Sona Hill.

Sona W, Sona NW & Sona SW

The 2016 exploration program covered a 1,000m wide area in Sona Northwest Zone and Sona West Zone with an 18-km ground Mag/IP pole-dipole (Induced Polarization) survey & 120 sample infill saprolite geochemistry program.

Figure 2: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c5683f9-f5b4-48e0-9e75-f0ae48d8674a

Figure 3: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eef5f5ca-5a6f-483e-849b-764ac98e368d

Figure 4: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/08cc72d9-1b8b-4627-ab68-c245be19b861

Magnetism, Induced Polarization, and saprolite geochemistry results suggest the shear zone and hydrothermal halos with associated gold mineralization may extend both to the northwest, south, and down-dip to the west of the Sona Hill gold resource shell.



Phase 1 of the 2017  2018 Exploration Program includes 3,000m targeting shallow mineralization in these areas (See Sona Hill Drill Program) followed by 3,000-6,000 m of follow-up or infill drilling in Phase 2.

Wynamu Hill



The saprolite geochemical gold anomaly at Wynamu Hill covers a 1 km x 500m NNE oriented area with continuous 100+ ppb values, including a dozen high values of >500 ppb.

Gold was intercepted in Saprolite and Fresh Rock in 6 of the 14 x 80m long DDH during the 2016 1,127m reconnaissance campaign focused on the top and flanks of the Wynamu Hill feature. Highlighted intercepts include 7.18 g/t Au from 0m - 21.5m in WYD013, 19.5 m of 1.18 g/t from 42.5m - 62 m in WYD003, and 9.0 m of 1.57 g/t from 32m - 41m in WYD014.

Figure 5: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0dce7f48-ac07-49f8-80c5-955c997b10bf

Phase 1 of the 2017  2018 Exploration Program includes 3,000m grid across the feature followed by 3,000m of follow-up drilling in Phase 2.



Otomung



The Otomung Area, 25 km northwest of the main Toroparu Pit, lies in an area that Sandsprings geologic model suggests may have similar conditions to those in the Toroparu area. Sandspring has conducted three systematic saprolite-geochemical surveys of the Otomung concession, with consecutive tighter survey grids focused on an interpreted elongated intrusive structure defined by multi-element geochemistry interpretation confirmed by airborne geophysics in the center of the concession.

The Au-Mo signature from the geochemistry surveys along the northeastern contact of the interpreted intrusive revealed a potential 8 km long NW-SE trend.

Figure 6: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f9fdd3dc-6039-4013-8516-28bf12c67bc7

The 2017  2018 Exploration Program includes tightening the sampling grid to 50m x 50m with infill sampling along the anomalous gold trends to identify targets for diamond drilling.

Qualified Persons Review

The technical information in this document has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Lucas W. Claessens, P.Geo. and Pascal van Osta, P.Geo., both Senior Exploration Consultants for Sandspring Resources Ltd., who have experience with the style of mineralization under consideration and are Qualified Persons under National Instrument 43-101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Sandspring Resources Ltd.

Richard A. Munson

Director and Chief Executive Officer

About Sandspring Resources Ltd.

Sandspring Resources Ltd. is a Canadian junior mining company currently moving toward a feasibility study for the multi-million-ounce Toroparu Project in Guyana, South America. A prefeasibility study completed in May 2013 (NI 43-101 Technical Report, Prefeasibility Study, Toroparu Gold Project, Upper Puruni River Area, Guyana, dated May 24, 2013 completed by SRK Consulting (U.S.), Inc., available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com) outlined the design of an open-pit mine producing more than 200,000 ounces of gold annually over an initial 16-year mine life. Sandspring and Wheaton Precious Metals (formerly known as Silver Wheaton) entered into a gold and silver purchase agreement for the Toroparu Project. Additional information is available at www.sandspringresources.com or by email at info@sandspringresources.com.

Contact Sandspring Resources

Richard A Munson

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +1 (303)-991-5683 or via email at info@sandspringresources.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words potential, suggesting, indicating, will, plans and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information and/or statements. Forward-looking statements and/or information are based on a number of material factors, expectations and/or assumptions that Sandspring has used to develop such statements and/or information, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Sandspring believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since Sandspring can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such information and/or statements, including the assumptions made in respect thereof, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and/or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information and/or statements including, without limitation: the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; risks associated with the uncertainty of exploration results and estimates; results from drilling and exploration activities and Sandsprings ability to identify additional gold mineralization; Sandsprings ability to successfully advance the Toroparu Gold Project toward feasibility; Sandsprings future plans; the availability of financing and/or cash flow to fund current and future plans and expenditures; the impact of increasing competition; fluctuating commodity prices; the general stability of applicable economic and political environments; the general continuance of current industry conditions; uncertainty regarding the market price for gold, silver and copper; uncertainty of conducting operations under a foreign regime; uncertainty of obtaining all applicable regulatory approvals and related timing matters; Sandsprings dependence on management personnel; and/or certain other risks detailed from time-to-time in Sandsprings public disclosure documents. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligations to publicly update and/or revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of additional information, future events and/or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.
Skywalker18 wrote:

Members of large-animal species must consume enormous amounts of food to survive. When climatic conditions in their environment deteriorate, such animals are often unable to find enough food. This fact helps make large-animal species more vulnerable to extinction than small-animal species, which can maintain greater populations on smaller amounts of food.



The statements above, if true, most supports which of the following?

The argument mentioned the source of food, not the maximum population size

Correct. This choice is a lighter version of option D and conveys the full linking to the argument.

This choice is irrelevant. The argument said that large animals are more vulnerable to extinction than small animals.

This fact doesn't necessarily mean that no small-animal species will become extinct unless some large-animal species becomes extinct.

This choice is too extremely and is often wrong in CR. "any given species" is wrong and "depends primarily on food"

is wrong. Lack of food is one of many factors that cause species become extinct.

The argument didn't say that small animals were able to find enough food to survive. It just said that small animal species were less vulnerable to extinction than large-animal species

This question is a LSAT question.A. The maximum population size that an animal species could maintain on any given amount of food is the main factor determining whether that species will become extinct.B. The vulnerability of an animal species to extinction depends at least in part on how much food individuals of that species must consumer to survive.C. When conditions deteriorate in a given environment, no small-animal species will become extinct unless some large-animal species also becomes extinct.D. Within any given species, the prospects for survival of any particular individual depends primarily on the amount of food that individual requires.E. Whenever climatic conditions in a given environment are bad enough to threaten large- animal species with extinction, small-animal species are able to find enough food to survive._________________
Legit.ng earlier reported that a Benue state pastor and his wife finally welcomed their first baby after 32 years of being childless.

The founder of the Glory of His Majesty Ministry, in Makurdi, Benue state, Reverend Michael Ewache, and his wife Christiana was said to have finally had a reason to smile when his wife welcomed their baby on Monday, June 5.

The baby over the weekend was finally dedicated in the church and the event was witnessed well-wishers of the family as well as other notable men of God.

Reverend Ewache and wife dedicating their baby girl in church

READ ALSO: Pastor and wife welcome baby 32 years after marriage

Other men of God present at the occasion include Apostle Uloko of House On The Rock, Reverend Sunday Ogwuche who was the guest speaker, Reverend Dave Ogbole and Pastor Oloche King Adaji.

Gracing the ceremony also is Archbishop Benjamin Kurudu, Bishop Austin Gundu, Bishop Uba Udenyi amidst other great men of God from around the nation.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet!

See more pictures below:

Reverend Ewache's baby dedication

Reverend Ewache and his baby girl

Reverend Ewache with his family

The reverend's wife filled with joy

Watch Legit.ng video below:

Source: Legit.ng
As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ
Tony Duheaume wrote an op-ed for Track Persia, entitled Hardliner Hassan Rouhani: Profile of an astute deceiver in which he assesses that Rouhani is a manipulator, who has plenty of practice in deceiving the world in order to ensure the survival of the Iranian Regime, no matter the cost.

Duheaume wrote: In a well-choreographed program of deception, carefully designed to create a moderate in the eyes of the West, Rouhani has deceived Western leaders.

Rouhani is not the new face of the Regime, who will shake up the leadership; he is an integral cog in the killing machine that has been in place since before the Regime took power. He was involved, at least somewhat, with the 1988 massacre of 30,000 political prisoners, and he appoints those involved in the massacre to key cabinet positions like Justice Minister (twice).

He was a key negotiator during the failed 2005 nuclear negotiations, fooling the West into thinking that he was at all moderate and exploiting divisions between Europe and the US in order to continue with Irans nuclear weapons programme.

While the West may see a smiling face from Rouhani, the Iranian people are more likely to see the grimace of Pennywise the clown before he murders you.

Since 2013, nearly 4,000 people have executed in Iran and the Iranian Resistance believes that this is part of an overarching programme to slaughter political prisoners, while the US Department of State reports that human rights in Iran are dismal at best.

Duheaume wrote: Through the election of Rouhani, if any in the West was expecting an era of restraint, they have been in for a massive shock. As far as freedom of speech, arbitrary arrests, executions without any form of fair trial, and all forms of politically motivated killings are concerned, such oppression has vastly increased.

In short, there is nothing moderate about Rouhani and we must stop pretending that there is.

Duheaume wrote: Despite Rouhanis claims of moderation, with his promises of reaching out to the West with a more conciliatory approach over Irans nuclear program, there has been no sign of a change within Iran over human rights, and as far as Irans intentions toward peace is concerned, its military spending has increased dramatically.

Related


The Brazilian government has opened an investigation into the deaths of 10 members of an uncontacted indigenous tribe.

Gold miners reportedly killed the tribe members in the Brazilian state of Amazonas.

Officials in Amazonas opened the investigation after learning that the miners had talked about killing members of an uncontacted tribe.

Brazil's National Indian Foundation said some of the miners were detained for questioning, but no deaths yet have been confirmed.

The reports come on the week of the 10-year anniversary of the United Nations' Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The document brings attention to the situation of indigenous people and creates standards for their survival and well-being. But advocates in Brazil say recognition of indigenous rights is making slow progress in the country.

About 900,000 indigenous people live in Brazil. They are spread out among 300 tribes and speak many different languages.

Indigenous tribes lack many basic rights, activists say

Native people struggle in the South American nation. Leaders and advocates say many do not have property rights. They may face violence from miners, ranchers and loggers. And there is little money for protecting indigenous peoples interests.

However, more than 10 percent of Brazils land is recognized territory for the indigenous population. Most of that land is in the rainforest of the Amazon River.

The UN declaration offers support for land demarcation, which provides some form of land rights to indigenous people.

Alberto Terena is a Brazilian indigenous leader.

He told the Thomson Reuters Foundation, "We see our rights being violated all the timeWe depend on the land to live. He added, With no demarcation, there is no health, no education. There is just a piece of land with heaps of people."

Joana Chiavari is an expert at the Climate Policy Initiative in Brazil. She said the process of land demarcation, to protect indigenous land, has resulted in violence.

Erika Yamada is a U.N. expert on indigenous rights. She said the number of killings of indigenous people in 25 nations increased by 100 percent to 281 in 2016 compared to the year before. She added that the number of killings in 2017 is, in her words, likely to be even more alarming.

Some say invasions of indigenous territory have been increasing as Brazil cuts spending. Officials say the budget cuts are measures aimed at bringing Brazil out of its worst recession in decades.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Jonathan Evans adapted this story from VOANews and Reuters reports. Mario Ritter was the editor.

______________________________________________________________

Words in this Story

standards n. ideas about what is correct or acceptable

advocate  n. a person who argues for or supports a cause or policy

demarcation  n. that which shows the limits or edges of something

indigenous  adj. produced, living, or existing naturally in a particular region or environment
The United States, South Korea and Japan carried out military exercises with warplanes over the Korean Peninsula Monday. At the same time, world leaders were gathering for the United Nations General Assembly meeting.

Russia and China also began joint naval exercises in the area adding to the military presence near the Korean Peninsula.

The actions follow North Koreas test of a middle-range missile which flew over Japan Friday.

The U.S. Defense Department said two bombers and four fighter planes flew over the Korean Peninsula and fired live weapons during a test.

South Korean defense minister Song Young-moo said the joint exercises are being carried out two to three times a month.

Later, the planes joined four Japanese F-2 fighter planes over the sea near the island of Kyushu, Japan.

The U.S. Pacific Command said the exercises support the ability to respond to any threat in the Indo-Asian Pacific theater at a moments notice.

The official Chinese news agency Xinhua said that Russia and China began naval exercises near the eastern port of Vladivostok. Xinhua online said the naval exercises are to extend to the Sea of Okhotsk, North of Japan.

Reuters news service says the joint naval exercises are the second part of related maneuvers between the countries in the Baltic Sea.

Tension remain high near the Korean Peninsula

On September 3, North Korea carried out its sixth and most powerful nuclear test. The U.N. Security Council answered one week later by approving a resolution placing stronger sanctions on the North.

The issue of North Korea is expected to be discussed during this weeks United Nations General Assembly Meeting in New York.

United States President Donald Trump has warned that he would not let North Korea threaten the U.S. or its allies.

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Nikki Haley, has said North Koreas continued weapons tests present a serious security problem.

What is really important with North Korea is that we try and push through as many diplomatic options as we have, she said.

However, she added if economic pressure does not work, there might be little more that the U.N. can do.

China and Russia have called for a diplomatic solution and restarting talks.

On Monday, Chinas foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the most recent sanctions on North Korea were just approved. He called on all parties involved to put the sanctions into effect strictly, rather than complicating the issue.

Lu added that China supports improved relations between the two Koreas.

On September 11, the U.N. Security Council voted to place stronger restriction on North Korea. They include limits on North Koreas oil imports and a ban on its exports of clothing products. The sanctions are meant to further pressure North Korea to end its nuclear and long-range missile programs.

North Korea denounced the UN resolution calling it an inhumane act of hostility against its people, system and government. North Koreas official KCNA news agency said the country would not give up its weapons programs.

The UN sanctions appear to be having an economic effect on the country. Reuters news agency reports that prices for gasoline and diesel fuel appear to have increased sharply since the latest nuclear test.

Im Mario Ritter.

David Jones reported this story for VOA News. Mario Ritter adapted it for VOA Learning English with additional material from Reuters. Caty Weaver was the editor.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

sanction n. measure put in place to cause a country to obey international law, usually by limiting or banning trade

theater n. an area, such as a large geographical area, where action takes place

options n. two or more possible actions that can be chosen from

maneuvers n. a set of planned movements or actions by military groups meant to show and develop skill

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.
Your Ultimate Investing Toolkit

Sign up for MarketBeat All Access to gain access to MarketBeat's full suite of research tools:

Portfolio Monitoring

Top Stock Lists

Premium Reports

Stock Screeners

Live News Feed

Premium Support

Free for your first month.
Freeport-McMoRan Inc. engages in the mining of mineral properties in North America, South America, and Indonesia. The company primarily explores for copper, gold, molybdenum, silver, and other metals, as well as oil and gas. Its assets include the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia; Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita, and Miami in Arizona; Tyrone and Chino in New Mexico; and Henderson and Climax in Colorado, North America, as well as Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile. The company also operates a portfolio of oil and gas properties primarily located in offshore California and the Gulf of Mexico. As of December 31, 2021, it operated approximately 135 wells. The company was formerly known as Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. and changed its name to Freeport-McMoRan Inc. in July 2014. Freeport-McMoRan Inc. was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona.
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.
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc. (NYSE: HTA) is the largest dedicated owner and operator of MOBs in the United States, comprising approximately 25.1 million square feet of GLA, with $7.4 billion invested primarily in MOBs. HTA provides real estate infrastructure for the integrated delivery of healthcare services in highly-desirable locations. Investments are targeted to build critical mass in 20 to 25 leading gateway markets that generally have leading university and medical institutions, which translates to superior demographics, high-quality graduates, intellectual talent and job growth. The strategic markets HTA invests in support a strong, long-term demand for quality medical office space. HTA utilizes an integrated asset management platform consisting of on-site leasing, property management, engineering and building services, and development capabilities to create complete, state of the art facilities in each market. This drives efficiencies, strong tenant and health system relationships, and strategic partnerships that result in high levels of tenant retention, rental growth and long-term value creation. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, HTA has developed a national brand with dedicated relationships at the local level. Founded in 2006 and listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2012, HTA has produced attractive returns for its stockholders that have outperformed the US REIT index.
The following companies are subsidiares of MetLife: 10700 WILSHIRE LLC, 1201 TAB MANAGER LLC, 1350 EYE STREET MANAGER LLC, 1350 EYE STREET OWNER LLC, 150 NORTH RIVERSIDE PE MEMBER LLC, 1925 WJC OWNER LLC, 23RD STREET INVESTMENTS INC., 500 GRANT STREET ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, 500 GRANT STREET GP LLC, 6104 HOLLYWOOD LLC, AFP GENESIS ADMINISTRADORA DE FONDOS Y FIDECOMISOS S.A., AGENVITA S.R.L., ALICO HELLAS SINGLE MEMBER LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, ALICO OPERATIONS LLC, American Life Insurance Company, BEST MARKET S.A., BLOCK VISION HOLDINGS CORPORATION, BLOCK VISION OF TEXAS INC., BORDERLAND INVESTMENTS LIMITED, BOULEVARD RESIDENTIAL LLC, BUFORD LOGISTICS CENTER LLC, CC HOLDCO MANAGER LLC, CHESTNUT FLATS WIND LLC, CLOSED JOINT-STOCK COMPANY MASTER-D, COMPANIA INVERSORA METLIFE S.A., CORPORATE REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC, COVA LIFE MANAGEMENT COMPANY, DAVIS VISION INC., DAVISVISION IPA INC., DELAWARE AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, EURO CL INVESTMENTS LLC, EXCELENCIA OPERATIVA Y TECNOLOGICA S.A de C.V., FORTISSIMO CO. LTD, FUNDACION METLIFE MEXICO A.C., GLOBAL PROPERTIES INC., General American Life Insurance Company, Grand Bank N.A., HASKELL EAST VILLAGE LLC, HOUSING FUND MANAGER LLC, INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL AND ADVISORY SERVICES LIMITED, INVERSIONES METLIFE HOLDCO DOS LIMITADA, INVERSIONES METLIFE HOLDCO TRES LIMITADA, LHC HOLDINGS LLC, LHCW HOLDINGS LLC, LHCW HOTEL HOLDING 2002 LLC, LHCW HOTEL HOLDING LLC, LHCW HOTEL OPERATING COMPANY 2002 LLC, LUMENLAB MALAYSIA SDN. BHD., Logan Circle Partners, MARKETPLACE RESIDENCES LLC, MC PORTFOLIO JV MEMBER LLC, MCJV LLC, MCPP OWNERS LLC, MCRE BLOCK 40 LP, MEC HEALTH CARE INC., MET 1065 HOTEL LLC, MET CANADA SOLAR ULC, METLIFE 1007 STEWART LLC, METLIFE 1201 TAB MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 425 MKT MANAGER LLC, METLIFE 425 MKT MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 555 12TH MEMBER LLC, METLIFE 8280 MEMBER LLC, METLIFE ACOMA OWNER LLC, METLIFE ADMINISTRADORA DE FUNDOS MULTIPATROCINADOS LTDA., METLIFE ALTERNATIVES GP LLC, METLIFE ASHTON AUSTIN OWNER LLC, METLIFE ASIA HOLDING COMPANY PTE. LTD., METLIFE ASIA LIMITED, METLIFE ASIA SERVICES SDN. BHD, METLIFE ASSET MANAGEMENT CORP., METLIFE ASSIGNMENT COMPANY INC., METLIFE BORO STATION MEMBER LLC, METLIFE CAMINO RAMON MEMBER LLC, METLIFE CAMPUS AT SGV MEMBER LLC, METLIFE CAPITAL CREDIT L.P., METLIFE CAPITAL LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, METLIFE CAPITAL TRUST IV, METLIFE CB W/A LLC, METLIFE CC MEMBER LLC, METLIFE CHILE ADMINISTRADORA DE MUTUOS HIPOTECARIOS S.A., METLIFE CHILE INVERSIONES LIMITADA, METLIFE CHILE SEGUROS DE VIDA S.A., METLIFE CHILE SEGUROS GENERALES S.A., METLIFE CHINO MEMBER LLC, METLIFE COLOMBIA SEGUROS de VIDA S.A., METLIFE COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE INCOME FUND GP LLC, METLIFE CONSQUARE MEMBER LLC, METLIFE CONSUMER SERVICES INC., METLIFE CORE PROPERTY FUND GP LLC, METLIFE CREDIT CORP., METLIFE DIGITAL VENTURES INC., METLIFE ENHANCED CORE PROPERTY FUND GP LLC, METLIFE EU HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED, METLIFE EUROPE INSURANCE d.a.c., METLIFE EUROPE SERVICES LIMITED, METLIFE EUROPE d.a.c., METLIFE EUROPEAN HOLDINGS LLC., METLIFE FINANCIAL SERVICES CO. LTD, METLIFE FM HOTEL MEMBER LLC, METLIFE FUNDING INC., METLIFE GENERAL INSURANCE LIMITED, METLIFE GLOBAL BENEFITS LTD., METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDING COMPANY I GMBH, METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDING COMPANY II GMBH, METLIFE GLOBAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION S.A. De C.V., METLIFE GLOBAL INC., METLIFE GLOBAL OPERATIONS SUPPORT CENTER PRIVATE LIMITED, METLIFE GROUP INC., METLIFE HCMJV 1 GP LLC, METLIFE HCMJV 1 LP LLC, METLIFE HEALTH PLANS INC., METLIFE HOLDINGS INC., METLIFE HOME LOANS LLC, METLIFE INNOVATION CENTRE LIMITED, METLIFE INNOVATION CENTRE PTE. LTD., METLIFE INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT TRUST, METLIFE INSURANCE BROKERAGE INC., METLIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF KOREA LTD., METLIFE INSURANCE K.K., METLIFE INSURANCE LIMITED, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL HF PARTNERS LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED LLC, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND I LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND II LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND III LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND IV LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND V LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND VI LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND VII LP, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT EUROPE LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC, METLIFE INVESTMENTS ASIA LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS PTY LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS SECURITIES LLC, METLIFE INVESTORS DISTRIBUTION COMPANY, METLIFE INVESTORS GROUP LLC, METLIFE IRELAND TREASURY D.A.C., METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY FUND GP LLC, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY FUND LP, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY OWNERS BLOCKER LLC, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY OWNERS LLC, METLIFE LATIN AMERICA ASESORIAS E INVERSIONES LIMITADA, METLIFE LEGAL PLANS INC., METLIFE LEGAL PLANS OF FLORIDA INC., METLIFE LHH MEMBER LLC, METLIFE LIFE INSURANCE S.A., METLIFE LOAN ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT FUND LP, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT MASTER FUND LP, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT PARALLEL FUND LP, METLIFE MAS S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO HOLDINGS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO SERVICIOS S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT FUND II LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT GP II LLC, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT GP LLC, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT II RATED FUND LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT PARALLEL FUND LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT PARALLEL GP LLC, METLIFE MMPD II SPECIAL LLC, METLIFE MULTI-FAMILY PARTNERS III LLC, METLIFE OBS MEMBER LLC, METLIFE OFC MEMBER LLC, METLIFE ONTARIO STREET MEMBR LLC, METLIFE PARK TOWER MEMBER LLC, METLIFE PENSION TRUSTEES LIMITED, METLIFE PENSIONES MEXICO S.A., METLIFE PET INSURANCE SOLUTIONS LLC, METLIFE PLANOS ODONTOLOGICOS LTDA., METLIFE POWSZECHNE TOWARTZYSTWO EMERYTALNE S.A., METLIFE PRIVATE EQUITY HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE PROPERTIES VENTURES LLC, METLIFE RC SF MEMBER LLC, METLIFE REAL ESTATE LENDING LLC, METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF BERMUDA LTD., METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF CHARLESTON, METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF VERMONT, METLIFE RETIREMENT SERVICES LLC, METLIFE SECURITIZATION DEPOSITOR LLC, METLIFE SEGUROS S.A., METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING FINCO LLC, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING FUND LP, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING GP LLC, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING HOLDINGS LP, METLIFE SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS LLC, METLIFE SERVICES CYPRUS LTD., METLIFE SERVICES EAST PRIVATE LIMITED, METLIFE SERVICES EEIG, METLIFE SERVICES EOOD, METLIFE SERVICES SOCIEDAD LIMITADA, METLIFE SERVICES SP Z.O.O, METLIFE SERVICIOS S.A., METLIFE SINGLE FAMILY RENTAL FUND GP LLC, METLIFE SINGLE FAMILY RENTAL FUND LP, METLIFE SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD., METLIFE SOLUTIONS S.A.S., METLIFE SP HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE STRATEGIC HOTEL DEBT FUND GP LLC, METLIFE SYNDICATED BANK LOAN LUX GP S.A.R.L., METLIFE THR INVESTOR LLC, METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO FUNDUSZY INWESTYCYJNYCH S.A., METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO UBEZPIECZEN NA ZYCIE I REASEKURACJI S.A., METLIFE TOWER RESOURCES GROUP INC., METLIFE TREAT TOWERS MEMBER LLC, METLIFE WORLDWIDE HOLDINGS LLC, METROPOLITAN GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC, METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN LIFE SEGUROS E PREVIDENCIA PRIVADA S.A., METROPOLITAN LIFE SOCIETATE de ADMINISTRARE a UNUI FOND de PENSII ADMINISTRAT PRIVAT S.A., METROPOLITAN TOWER LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN TOWER REALTY COMPANY INC., MEX DF PROPERTIES LLC, MFA FINANCING VEHICLE CTR1 LLC, MIDTOWN HEIGHTS LLC, MIM CAMPUS AT SGV MANAGER LLC, MIM CLAL GENERAL PARTNER LLC, MIM CM SYNDICATOR LLC, MIM EMD GP LLC, MIM I LLC, MIM LS GP LLC, MIM METWEST INTERNATIONAL MANAGER LLC, MIM ML-AI VENTURE 5 MANAGER LLC, MIM OMD MANAGER LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OF GEORGIA 1 LLC, MIM SPOKANE INDUSTRIAL MANAGER LLC, MIM THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MANAGER LLC, MISSOURI REINSURANCE INC., ML 300 THIRD MEMBER LLC, ML ARMATURE MEMBER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MANAGER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MEMBER LLC, ML CAPACITACION COMERCIAL S.A. DE C.V., ML CERRITOS TC MEMBER LLC, ML CLAL MEMBER LLC, ML CORNER 63 MEMBER LLC, ML DOLPHIN GP LLC, ML DOLPHIN MEZZ LLC, ML HUDSON MEMBER LLC, ML MATSON MILLS MEMBER LLC, ML MILILANI MEMBER LLC, ML OMD MEMBER LLC, ML ONE BEDMINSTER LLC, ML PORT CHESTER SC MEMBER LLC, ML SENTINEL SQUARE MEMBER LLC, ML SLOANS LAKE MEMEBR LLC, ML SOUTHLANDS MEMBER LLC, ML SOUTHMORE LLC, ML SPOKANE INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, ML SWAN GP LLC, ML SWAN MEZZ LLC, ML TERRACES LLC, ML THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, ML VENTURE 1 MANAGER S. DE R. L. DE C.V., ML VENTURE 1 SERVICER LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 1 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 2 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 3 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 4 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 5 LLC, ML-URS PORT CHESTER SC MANAGER LLC, MLIA MANAGER I LLC, MLIA PARK TOWER MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF COLONY MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF MANAGER LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS II LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS LLC, MLIC CB HOLDINGS LLC, MLJ US FEEDER LLC, MM GLOBAL OPERATIONS SUPPORT CENTER S.A. DE C.V., MMP CEDAR STREET OWNER LLC, MMP CEDAR STREET REIT LLC, MMP HOLDINGS III LLC, MMP OLIVIAN OWNER LLC, MMP OLIVIAN REIT LLC, MMP OWNERS III LLC, MMP OWNERS LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK OWNER LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK REIT LLC, MNQM TRUST 2020, MREF 425 MKT LLC, MSHDF HOLDCO I LLC, MSV IRVINE PROPERTY LLC, MTL LEASING LLC, MTU HOTEL OWNER LLC, NATILOPORTEM HOLDINGS LLC, NEWBURY INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED, OCONEE GOLF COMPANY LLC, OCONEE HOTEL COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC, OCONEE MARINA COMPANY LLC, OMI MLIC INVESTMENTS LIMITED, PACIFIC LOGISTICS INDUSTRIAL NORTH LLC, PACIFIC LOGISTICS INDUSTRIAL SOUTH LLC, PARK TOWER JV MEMBER LLC, PARK TOWER REIT INC., PJSC METLIFE, PLAZA DRIVE PROPERTIES LLC, PREFCO FOURTEEN LLC, PREFCO XIV HOLDINGS LLC, PROVIDA INTERNACIONAL S.A., SAFEGUARD HEALTH ENTERPRISES INC., SAFEGUARD HEALTH PLANS INC., SAFEHEALTH LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, SOUTHCREEK INDUSTRIAL HOLDINGS LLC, ST. JAMES FLEET INVESTMENTS TWO LIMITED, SUPERIOR PROCUREMENT INC., SUPERIOR VISION BENEFIT MANAGEMENT INC., SUPERIOR VISION HOLDINGS INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE PLAN OF WISCONSIN INC., SUPERIOR VISION OF NEW JERSEY INC., SUPERIOR VISION SERVICES INC., Safeguard Health Enterprises, Security First Group Inc., THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH AVENUE MEZZANINE LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL HOLDING LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL OWNER, THE DIRECT CALL CENTRE PTY LIMITED, TRANSMOUNTAIN LAND & LIVESTOCK COMPANY, UVC INDEPENDENT PRACTICE ASSOCIATION INC., VERSANT HEALTH CONSOLIDATIONS CORP., VERSANT HEALTH HOLDCO INC., VERSANT HEALTH INC., VERSANT HEALTH LAB LLC, VIRIDIAN MIRACLE MILE LLC, VISION 21 MANAGED EYE CARE OF TAMPA BAY INC., VISION 21 PHYSICIAN PRACTICE MANAGEMENT COMPANY, VISION TWENTY-ONE MANAGED EYE CARE IPA INC., Versant Health, WDV ACQUISITION CORP., WFP 1000 HOLDING COMPANY GP LLC, WHITE OAK ROYALTY COMPANY, WHITE TRACT II LLC, and Willing.

Read More
The following companies are subsidiares of Pearson: AEL (S) PTE Limited, ATI Professional Development LLC, Addison Wesley Longman Inc., Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers Inc., Aldwych Finance Limited, Americas Choice Inc., Atkey Finance Limited, Author Solutions, Axis Finance Inc., CAMSAWUSA Inc., CTI Education Group (Pty) Limited, Camsaw Inc., Casapsi Livraria e Editora Ltda, Centro Cultural Americano Franquias e Comercio Ltda., Century Consultants Ltd., Certiport, Certiport China Co Ltd, Certiport China Holding LLC, Certiport Inc., Cogmed Systems AB, Connections Academy of Arkansas LLC, Connections Academy of Florida LLC, Connections Academy of Iowa LLC, Connections Academy of Maine LLC, Connections Academy of Maryland LLC, Connections Academy of Minnesota LLC, Connections Academy of Missouri LLC, Connections Academy of Nevada LLC, Connections Academy of New Jersey LLC, Connections Academy of New Mexico LLC, Connections Academy of New York LLC, Connections Academy of Oregon LLC, Connections Academy of Pennsylvania LLC, Connections Academy of Tennessee LLC, Connections Academy of Texas LLC, Connections Education Inc., Connections Education LLC, Connections Education of Florida LLC, Dominie Press Inc., Dorian Finance Limited, Dorling Kindersley Australasia Pty Limited, EBNT Canada Holdings ULC, EBNT Holdings Limited, EBNT USA Holdings Inc., Edexcel Limited, Edexcel South Africa Pty Ltd, Education Development International plc, Education Resources (Cyprus) Limited, Educational Management Group Inc., Educational Publishers LLP, Embanet ULC, Embanet-Compass Knowledge Group Inc., EmbanetCompass, Embankment Finance Limited, English Language Learning and Instruction System Inc., Escape Studios Limited, FBH Inc., Falstaff Holdco Inc., Falstaff Inc., GED Domains LLC, GED Testing Service LLC, George (Shanghai) Commercial Information Consulting Co. Ltd, Global Education, Global George I Limited, Global George II Limited, GlobalEnglish, Globe Fearon Inc., Guangzhou Crescent Software Co. Ltd, Heinemann Education Botswana (Publishers) (Proprietary) Limited, Heinemann Publishers (Pty) Ltd, INTELLIPRO INC., Icodeon Limited, IndiaCan Education Private Limited, Integral 7 Inc., Integrated Analytics LLC, J M Solucoes Exportacao e Importacao Ltda, K12 Learning Services LLC, Kagiso Education Pty Ltd, Knowledge Analysis Technologies LLC, LCCI International Qualifications (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., LCCIEB Training Consultancy. Ltd, Learning Catalytics, LessonLab Inc., Lignum Oil Company, Linx Brasil Distribuidora Ltda., Longman (Malawi) Limited, Longman Australasia Pty Ltd, Longman Group(Overseas Holdings)Limited, Longman Indochina Acquisition L.L.C., Longman Kenya Limited, Longman Mocambique Ltda, Longman Romania S.R.L., Longman Swaziland (Pty) Limited, Longman Tanzania Limited, Longman Zambia Educational Publishers Pty Ltd, Longman Zambia Limited, Longman Zimbabwe (Private) Ltd, Longmaned Ecuador S.A., Major123 Limited, Maskew Miller Longman (Pty) Limited, MeasureUp LLC, Modern Curriculum Inc., Multi Holding, Multi Treinamento e Editora Ltda, NCS Information Technology Services (Beijing) Co Ltd, NCS Pearson Inc., NCS Pearson Pty Ltd, NCS Pearson Puerto Rico Inc., National Computer Systems Japan Co. Ltd, Ordinate Corporation, PN Holdings Inc., PT Efficient English Services, Pearson (Beijing) Management Consulting Co. Ltd., Pearson (Guizhou) Education Technology Co. Ltd., Pearson Affordable Learning Fund Limited, Pearson America LLC, Pearson Amsterdam B.V., Pearson Australia Finance Unlimited, Pearson Australia Group Pty Ltd, Pearson Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Pearson Australia Pty Ltd, Pearson Benelux B.V., Pearson Books Limited, Pearson Brazil Finance Limited, Pearson Business Services Inc., Pearson Canada Assessment Inc., Pearson Canada Finance Unlimited, Pearson Canada Holdings Inc, Pearson Canada Inc., Pearson Central Europe Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Pearson College Limited, Pearson DBC Holdings Inc., Pearson Desarrollo y Capacitacion Profesional Chile Limitada, Pearson Deutschland GmbH, Pearson Digital Learning Puerto Rico Inc., Pearson Dollar Finance Two Limited, Pearson Dollar Finance plc, Pearson Educacion SA, Pearson Educacion de Chile Limitada, Pearson Educacion de Colombia S A S, Pearson Educacion de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pearson Educacion de Panama SA, Pearson Educacion de Peru S.A., Pearson Education (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Pearson Education Achievement Solutions (RF) (Pty) Limited, Pearson Education Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Education Asia Limited, Pearson Education Botswana (Proprietary) Limited, Pearson Education Hellas SA, Pearson Education Holdings Limited, Pearson Education Inc., Pearson Education Indochina Limited, Pearson Education Investments Limited, Pearson Education Korea Limited, Pearson Education Limited, Pearson Education Namibia (Pty) Limited, Pearson Education Publishing Limited, Pearson Education S.A., Pearson Education SA, Pearson Education South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Education South Asia Pte. Ltd., Pearson Education Taiwan Ltd, Pearson Education do Brasil S.A, Pearson Educational Measurement Canada Inc., Pearson Educational Publishers LLC, Pearson Egitim Cozumleri Tikaret Limited Sirketi, Pearson Falstaff (Holdings) Inc., Pearson Falstaff Holdco LLC, Pearson France, Pearson Funding Five plc, Pearson Funding Four plc, Pearson Funding Two Limited, Pearson Holdings Inc., Pearson Holdings Southern Africa (Pty) Limited, Pearson IOKI Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Pearson India Education Services Private Limited, Pearson India Support Services Private Limited, Pearson Institute of Higher Education, Pearson International Finance Limited, Pearson Investment Holdings Inc., Pearson Italia S.p.A, Pearson Japan KK, Pearson Lanka (Private) Limited, Pearson Learning China (HK) Limited, Pearson Lesotho (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Loan Finance No. 3 Limited, Pearson Loan Finance No. 4 Limited, Pearson Loan Finance No.2 Unlimited, Pearson Loan Finance Unlimited, Pearson Longman Uganda Limited, Pearson Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Pearson Management Services Limited, Pearson Management Services Philippines Inc., Pearson Maryland Inc., Pearson Netherlands B.V., Pearson Netherlands Holdings B.V., Pearson Nominees Limited, Pearson Online Tutoring LLC, Pearson Overseas Holdings Limited, Pearson PEM P.R. Inc., Pearson PRH Holdings Limited, Pearson Pension Nominees Limited, Pearson Pension Property Fund Limited, Pearson Pension Trustee Limited, Pearson Pension Trustee Services Limited, Pearson Professional Assessments Limited, Pearson Real Estate Holdings Inc., Pearson Real Estate Holdings Limited, Pearson Schweiz AG, Pearson Services Limited, Pearson Shared Services Limited, Pearson South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Pearson Strand Finance Limited, Pearson Sweden AB, Pearson VUE Philippines Inc., Pearson in Practice Holdings Limited, Pearson in Practice Skills Based Learning Limited, Pearson in Practice Technology Limited, Penguin Capital LLC, Phumelela Publishers (Pty) Ltd, ProctorCam Inc., Reading Property Holdings LLC, Rebus Planning Associates Inc., Reston Publishing Company Inc., Rycade Capital Corporation, Shanghai AWL Education Software Ltd, Silver Burdett Ginn Inc., Skylight Training and Publishing Inc., Smarthinking Inc., Sound Holdings Inc., Spear Insurance Company Limited, Stark Verlag GmbH, Sunnykey International Holdings Limited (BVI), TQ Catalis Limited, TQ Clapham Limited, TQ Education and Training Limited, TQ Global Limited, TQ Group Limited, TQ Holdings Limited, The Financial Times (I) Pvt Ltd, The Learning Edge International pty Ltd, The Waite Group Inc, Trio Parent Holdings LLC, US Learning Services LLC, USLS Holdings LLC, Virtual Nerd, Vue Testing Services Israel Ltd, Vue Testing Services Korea Limited, Wall Street Institute Kft., Williams Education GmbH, eCollege.com, and Editions Du Renouveau Pedagogique Inc..

Read More
The following companies are subsidiares of PepsiCo: Alimentos Quaker Oats y Compania Limitada, Alimentos del Istmo S.A., Amavale Agricola Ltda., Anderson Hill Insurance Limited, Asia Bottlers Limited, BAESA Capital Corporation Ltd., BFY Brands, BFY Brands LLC, BFY Brands Limited, BUG de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Balmoral Industries LLC, Bare Foods Co., Barrhead LLC, Be & Cheery, Beaman Bottling Company, Bebidas Sudamerica S.A., Beech Limited, Bell Taco Funding Syndicate, Bendler Investments II Ltd, Bendler Investments S.a r.l, Beverage Services Limited, Beverages Foods & Service Industries Inc., Bishkeksut OJSC, Blaue NC S. de R.L. de C.V., Blue Cloud Distribution Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Arizona Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Arkansas Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Colorado Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Florida Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Georgia Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Illinois Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Indiana Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Iowa Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Kentucky Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Louisiana Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Minnesota Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Mississippi Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Missouri Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Nebraska Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Nevada Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of North Carolina Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Ohio Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Oklahoma Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Pennsylvania Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of South Carolina Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Tennessee Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Texas Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Virginia Inc., Blue Cloud Distribution of Wisconsin Inc., Blue Ridge Sales LLC, Bluebird Foods Limited, Bluecan Holdings Unlimited Company, Bokomo Zambia Limited, Bolsherechensky Molkombinat JSC, Boquitas Fiestas LLC, Boquitas Fiestas S.R.L., Bottling Group Financing LLC, Bottling Group Holdings LLC, Bottling Group LLC, Bronte Industries Ltd, C & I Leasing Inc., CB Manufacturing Company Inc., CEME Holdings LLC, CMC Investment Company, Caroni Investments LLC, Centro-Mediterranea de Bebidas Carbonicas PepsiCo S.L., Ceres Fruit Juices Pty Ltd, ChampBev Inc., China Concentrate Holdings Hong Kong Limited, Chipsy International for Food Industries S.A.E., Chipsy for Food Industries S.A.E., Chitos Internacional y Cia Ltda, Cipa Industrial de Produtos Alimentares Ltda., Cipa Nordeste Industrial de Produtos Alimentares Ltda., Cocina Autentica Inc., Comercializadora CMC Investment y Compania Limitada, Comercializadora Nacional SAS Ltda., Comercializadora PepsiCo Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., Compania de Bebidas PepsiCo S.L., Concentrate Holding Uruguay Pte. Ltd., Concentrate Manufacturing Singapore Pte. Ltd., Confiteria Alegro S. de R.L. de C.V., Copella Fruit Juices Limited, Copper Beech International LLC, Corina Snacks Limited, Corporativo Internacional Mexicano S. de R.L. de C.V., CytoSport Holdings Inc., CytoSport Inc., Davlyn Realty Corporation, Defosto Holdings Limited, Desarrollo Inmobiliario Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Dilexis S.A., Donon Holdings Limited, Drinkfinity USA Inc., Drinkstation Inc., Drinkstation Innovation Co. Ltd., Drinkstation Limited, Dutch Snacks Holding S.A. de C.V., Duyvis Production B.V., EPIC Enterprises Inc., Echo Bay Holdings Inc., Elaboradora Argentina de Cereales S.R.L., Enter Logistica LLC, Environ at Inverrary Partnership, Environ of Inverrary Inc., Eridanus Investments S.a r.l, Evercrisp Snack Productos de Chile S.A., FL Transportation Inc., FLI Andean LLC, FLI Colombia LLC, FLI Snacks Andean GP LLC, Fabrica PepsiCo Mexicali S. de R.L. de C.V., Fabrica de Productos Alimenticios Rene y Cia S.C.A., Fairlight International SRL, Far East Bottlers Hong Kong Limited, Food Concepts Pioneer Ltd., Forest Akers Nederland B.V., Forty-Six Peaks Holding Inc., Fovarosi Asvanyviz es Uditoipari Zartkoruen Mukodo Reszvenytarsasag, Freshwater International B.V., Frito Lay Gida Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Frito Lay Poland Sp. z o.o., Frito Lay Sp. z o.o., Frito Lay de Guatemala y Compania Limitada, Frito-Lay Australia Holdings Pty Limited, Frito-Lay Dip Company Inc., Frito-Lay Dominicana S.A., Frito-Lay Global Investments B.V., Frito-Lay Inc., Frito-Lay Investments B.V., Frito-Lay Manufacturing LLC, Frito-Lay Netherlands Holding B.V., Frito-Lay North America Inc., Frito-Lay Sales Inc., Frito-Lay Trading Company Europe GmbH, Frito-Lay Trading Company GmbH, Frito-Lay Trading Company Poland GmbH, Frito-Lay Trinidad Unlimited, Fruko Mesrubat Sanayi Limited Sirketi, GB Czech LLC, GB International Inc., GB Russia LLC, GB Slovak LLC, GMP Manufacturing Inc., Gambrinus Investments Limited, Gamesa LLC, Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Gas Natural de Merida S. A. de C. V., Gatorade Puerto Rico Company, General Bottlers of Hungary Inc., Golden Grain Company, Goveh S.R.L., Grayhawk Leasing LLC, Green Hemlock International LLC, Grupo Frito Lay y Compania Limitada, Grupo Gamesa S. de R.L. de C.V., Grupo Mabel, Grupo Sabritas S. de R.L. de C.V., Gulkevichskiy Maslozavod JSC, Hangzhou Baicaowei Corporate Management Consulting Co. Ltd., Hangzhou Haomusi Food Co, Hangzhou Haomusi Food Co. Ltd., Hangzhou Tao Dao Technology Co. Ltd., Health Warrior, Health Warrior Inc., Heathland LP, Helioscope Limited, Hillbrook Inc., Hillgrove Inc., Hillwood Bottling LLC, Hogganfield Limited Partnership, Holding Company "Opolie" JSC, Homefinding Company of Texas, Hudson Valley Insurance Company, IC Equities Inc., IZZE Beverage Co., Inmobiliaria Interamericana S.A. De C.V., Integrated Beverage Services Bangladesh Limited, Integrated Foods & Beverages Pvt. Ltd., International Bottlers Management Co. LLC, International KAS Aktiengesellschaft, Inversiones Borneo S.R.L., Inversiones PFI Chile Limitada, Inviting Foods Holdings Inc., Inviting Foods LLC, KAS Anorthosis S.a r.l, KAS S.L., KFC, Kevita Inc., Kinvara LLC, Kungursky Molkombinat JSC, Larragana S.L., Latin American Holdings Ltd., Latin American Snack Foods ApS, Latin Foods International LLC, Lebedyansky, Lebedyansky Holdings LLC, Lebedyansky LLC, Limited Liability Company "Sandora", Linkbay Limited, Lithuanian Snacks UAB, Mabel, Marbo Product d.o.o. Beograd, Marbo d.o.o. Laktasi, Matudis - Comercio de Produtos Alimentares Limitada, Matutano - Sociedade de Produtos Alimentares Lda., Mid-America Improvement Corporation, Mountainview Insurance Company Inc., Muscle Milk, NCJV LLC, New Bern Transport Corporation, New Century Beverage Company LLC, Noble Leasing LLC, Northeast Hot-Fill Co-op Inc., Office at Solyanka LLC, Onbiso Inversiones S.L., One World Enterprises LLC, One World Investors Inc., P-A Barbados Bottling Company LLC, P-A Bottlers Barbados SRL, P-Americas LLC, PAS Luxembourg S.a r.l, PAS Netherlands B.V., PBG Canada Holdings II LLC, PBG Canada Holdings Inc., PBG Cyprus Holdings Limited, PBG Investment Partnership, PBG Midwest Holdings S.a r.l, PBG Soda Can Holdings S.a r.l, PCBL LLC, PCNA Manufacturing Inc., PR Beverages Cyprus Holding Limited, PR Beverages Cyprus Russia Holding Limited, PRB Luxembourg S.a r.l, PRS Inc., PSAS Inversiones LLC, PSE Logistica S.R.L., PT Quaker Indonesia, Papas Chips S.A., Pei N.V., Pep Trade LLC, Pepsi B.V., Pepsi Beverages Holdings Inc., Pepsi Bottling Group Global Finance LLC, Pepsi Bottling Group GmbH, Pepsi Bottling Group Hoosiers B.V., Pepsi Bottling Holdings Inc., Pepsi Bugshan Investments S.A.E., Pepsi Cola Colombia Ltda, Pepsi Cola Egypt S.A.E., Pepsi Cola Panamericana S.R.L., Pepsi Cola Servis Ve Dagitim Limited Sirketi, Pepsi Cola Trading Ireland, Pepsi Logistics Company Inc., Pepsi Northwest Beverages LLC, Pepsi Overseas Investments Partnership, Pepsi Promotions Inc., Pepsi-Cola Advertising and Marketing Inc., Pepsi-Cola Bermuda Limited, Pepsi-Cola Bottlers Holding C.V., Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company Of St. Louis Inc., Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Ft. Lauderdale-Palm Beach LLC, Pepsi-Cola Company, Pepsi-Cola Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Pepsi-Cola Far East Trade Development Co. Inc., Pepsi-Cola Finance LLC, Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers Poland Sp. z o.o., Pepsi-Cola Industrial da Amazonia Ltda., Pepsi-Cola International Cork, Pepsi-Cola International LLC, Pepsi-Cola International Limited, Pepsi-Cola International Limited U.S.A., Pepsi-Cola International Private Limited, Pepsi-Cola Korea Co. Ltd., Pepsi-Cola Management and Administrative Services Inc., Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing Company Of Uruguay S.R.L., Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing International Limited, Pepsi-Cola Manufacturing Mediterranean Limited, Pepsi-Cola Marketing Corp. Of P.R. Inc., Pepsi-Cola Mediterranean Ltd., Pepsi-Cola Metropolitan Bottling Company Inc., Pepsi-Cola Mexicana Holdings LLC, Pepsi-Cola Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Pepsi-Cola National Marketing LLC, Pepsi-Cola Operating Company Of Chesapeake And Indianapolis, Pepsi-Cola Sales and Distribution Inc., Pepsi-Cola Technical Operations Inc., Pepsi-Cola Thai Trading Co. Ltd., Pepsi-Cola de Honduras S.R.L., Pepsi-Cola of Corvallis Inc., PepsiAmericas Nemzetkozi Szolgaltato Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, PepsiCo ANZ Holdings Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Alimentos Antioquia Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Colombia Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Ecuador Cia. Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos Z.F. Ltda., PepsiCo Alimentos de Bolivia S.R.L., PepsiCo Amacoco Bebidas Do Brasil Ltda., PepsiCo Asia Research & Development Center Company Limited, PepsiCo Australia Financing Cyprus Limited, PepsiCo Australia Financing Limited Partnership, PepsiCo Australia Financing Partner 1 LLC, PepsiCo Australia Financing Partner 2 LLC, PepsiCo Australia Financing Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Australia Holdings Pty Limited, PepsiCo Australia International, PepsiCo Austria Services GmbH, PepsiCo Azerbaijan Limited Liability Company, PepsiCo BeLux BV, PepsiCo Beverage Sales LLC, PepsiCo Beverage Singapore Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Beverages Bermuda Limited, PepsiCo Beverages Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo Beverages International Limited, PepsiCo Beverages Italia Societa' A Responsabilita' Limitata, PepsiCo Canada Finance LLC, PepsiCo Canada Holdings ULC, PepsiCo Canada Investment ULC, PepsiCo Canada ULC, PepsiCo Captive Holdings Inc., PepsiCo Caribbean Inc., PepsiCo China Limited, PepsiCo Consulting Polska Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo De Bolivia S.R.L., PepsiCo Del Paraguay S.R.L., PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH, PepsiCo Eesti AS, PepsiCo Euro Bermuda Limited, PepsiCo Euro Finance Antilles B.V., PepsiCo Europe Support Center S.L., PepsiCo Finance Americas Company, PepsiCo Finance Antilles A N.V., PepsiCo Finance Antilles B N.V., PepsiCo Finance South Africa Proprietary Limited, PepsiCo Financial Shared Services Inc., PepsiCo Food & Beverage Holdings Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo Foods A.I.E., PepsiCo Foods China Company Limited, PepsiCo Foods Group Pty Ltd, PepsiCo Foods Guangdong Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Nigeria Limited, PepsiCo Foods Private Limited, PepsiCo Foods Sichuan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Taiwan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Foods Vietnam Company, PepsiCo France SAS, PepsiCo Global Business Services India LLP, PepsiCo Global Business Services Poland Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo Global Holdings Limited, PepsiCo Global Investments B.V., PepsiCo Global Investments S.a r.l, PepsiCo Global Mobility LLC, PepsiCo Global Real Estate Inc., PepsiCo Global Trading Solutions Unlimited Company, PepsiCo Golden Holdings Inc., PepsiCo Group Finance International B.V., PepsiCo Group Holdings International B.V., PepsiCo Group Spotswood Holdings S.a r.l, PepsiCo Gulf International FZE, PepsiCo Hellas Single Member Industrial and Commercial Societe Anonyme, PepsiCo Holding de Espana S.L., PepsiCo Holdings, PepsiCo Holdings LLC, PepsiCo Holdings Toshkent LLC, PepsiCo Hong Kong LLC, PepsiCo Iberia Servicios Centrales S.L., PepsiCo India Holdings Private Limited, PepsiCo India Sales Private Limited, PepsiCo Internacional Mexico S. de R. L. de C. V., PepsiCo International Hong Kong Limited, PepsiCo International Limited, PepsiCo International Pte Ltd., PepsiCo Investments Europe I B.V., PepsiCo Investments Ltd., PepsiCo Ireland Food & Beverages Unlimited Company, PepsiCo Japan Co. Ltd., PepsiCo Light B.V., PepsiCo Logistyka Sp. z o.o., PepsiCo Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., PepsiCo Management Services SAS, PepsiCo Manufacturing A.I.E., PepsiCo Max B.V., PepsiCo Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., PepsiCo Nederland B.V., PepsiCo Nordic Denmark ApS, PepsiCo Nordic Finland Oy, PepsiCo Nordic Norway AS, PepsiCo Nutrition Trading DMCC, PepsiCo One B.V., PepsiCo Overseas Corporation, PepsiCo Overseas Financing Partnership, PepsiCo Panimex Inc, PepsiCo Products B.V., PepsiCo Products FLLC, PepsiCo Puerto Rico Inc., PepsiCo Sales Inc., PepsiCo Sales LLC, PepsiCo Services Asia Ltd., PepsiCo Services CZ s.r.o., PepsiCo Services LLC, PepsiCo Twist B.V., PepsiCo UK Pension Plan Trustee Limited, PepsiCo Ventures B.V., PepsiCo Wave Holdings LLC, PepsiCo World Trading Company Inc., PepsiCo Y LLC, PepsiCo de Argentina S.R.L., PepsiCo de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PepsiCo do Brasil Industria e Comercio de Alimentos Ltda., PepsiCo do Brasil Ltda., PepsiCola Interamericana de Guatemala S.A., Pet Iberia S.L., Pete & Johnny Limited, Pine International LLC, Pine International Limited, Pinstripe Leasing LLC, Pioneer Food Group Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Groceries Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Group Ltd., Pioneer Foods Holdings Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods Pty Ltd, Pioneer Foods UK Ltd, Pioneer Foods Wellingtons Pty Ltd, Pipers Crisps Limited, PlayCo Inc., Pop corners, PopCorners Holdings Inc., Portfolio Concentrate Solutions Unlimited Company, Premier Nutrition Trading L.L.C., Prestwick LLC, Prev PepsiCo Sociedade Previdenciaria, Productos Alimenticios Rene LLC, Productos S.A.S. C.V., Productos SAS Management B.V., Punch N.V., Punica Getranke GmbH, Q O Puerto Rico Inc., QFL OHQ Sdn. Bhd., QTG Development Inc., QTG Services Inc., Quadrant - Amroq Beverages S.R.L., Quaker Development B.V., Quaker European Beverages LLC, Quaker European Investments B.V., Quaker Foods, Quaker Global Investments B.V., Quaker Holdings UK Limited, Quaker Manufacturing LLC, Quaker Oats Asia Inc., Quaker Oats Australia Pty Ltd, Quaker Oats B.V., Quaker Oats Capital Corporation, Quaker Oats Europe Inc., Quaker Oats Europe LLC, Quaker Oats Limited, Quaker Sales & Distribution Inc, Raptas Finance S.a r.l., Rare Fare Foods LLC, Rare Fare Holdings Inc., Reading Industries Ltd, Real Estate Holdings LLC, Rockstar Energy Drink, Rolling Frito-Lay Sales LP, S & T of Mississippi Inc., SIH International LLC, SVC Logistics Inc., SVC Manufacturing Inc., SVE Russia Holdings GmbH, Sabritas LLC, Sabritas S. de R.L. de C.V., Sabritas Snacks America Latina de Nicaragua y Cia Ltda, Sabritas de Costa Rica S. de R.L., Sabritas y Cia. S en C de C.V., Sakata Rice Snacks Australia Pty Ltd, Sandora Holdings B.V., Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited, Sea Eagle International SRL, Seepoint Holdings Ltd., Senselet Food Processing PLC, Senselet Holding B.V., Servicios GBF Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Servicios GFLG y Compania Limitada, Servicios Gamesa Puerto Rico L.L.C., Servicios SYC S. de R.L. de C.V., Seven-Up Asia Inc., Seven-Up Light B.V., Seven-Up Nederland B.V., Shanghai PepsiCo Snack Company Limited, Shanghai YuHo Agricultural Development Co. Ltd, Shoebill LLC, Simba (Proprietary) Limited, Simba Proprietary Limited, Sitka Spruce, Smartfoods Inc., Smiles and Bites Holdings S.de R.L. de C.V., Smiths Crisps Limited, Snack Food Investments GmbH, Snack Food Investments II GmbH, Snack Food Investments Limited, Snack Food-Beverage Asia Products Limited, Snacks America Latina S.R.L., Snacks Guatemala Ltd., So Spark Ltd., Soda-Club CO2 Atlantic GmbH, Soda-Club CO2 GmbH, Soda-Club CO2 Ltd., Soda-Club Switzerland GmbH, Soda-Club Worldwide B.V., SodaStream, SodaStream Australia Pty Ltd, SodaStream CO2 SA, SodaStream Canada Ltd., SodaStream Enterprises N.V., SodaStream France SAS, SodaStream GmbH, SodaStream Iberia S.L., SodaStream Industries Ltd., SodaStream International B.V., SodaStream International Ltd., SodaStream Israel Ltd., SodaStream K.K., SodaStream New Zealand Ltd., SodaStream Nordics AB, SodaStream Poland Sp. z o.o., SodaStream SA Pty Ltd., SodaStream Switzerland GmbH, SodaStream USA Inc., SodaStream Osterreich GmbH, South Beach Beverage Company Inc., South Properties Inc., Spitz International Inc., Sportmex Internacional S.A. de C.V., Springboig Industries Ltd, Spruce Limited, Stacy's Pita Chip Company Incorporated, Star Foods E.M. S.R.L., Stokely-Van Camp Inc., Stratosphere Communications Pty Ltd, Stratosphere Holdings 2018 Limited, Streamfoods Ltd, TFL Holdings LLC, Tasman Finance S.a r.l, The Gatorade Company, The Good Carb Food Company Ltd., The Pepsi Bottling Group Canada ULC, The Quaker Oats Company, The Smith's Snackfood Company Pty Limited, Thomond Group Holdings Limited, Tobago Snack Holdings LLC, Tropicana Alvalle S.L., Tropicana Beverages Limited, Tropicana Europe N.V., Tropicana United Kingdom Limited, Troya-Ultra LLC, United Foods Companies Restaurantes S.A., V-Water, VentureCo Israel Ltd, Veurne Snack Foods BV, Vitamin Brands Ltd., Walkers Crisps Limited, Walkers Group Limited, Walkers Snack Foods Limited, Walkers Snacks Distribution Limited, Walkers Snacks Limited, Whitman Corporation, Whitman Insurance Co. Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann Beverages JSC, Wimm-Bill-Dann Brands Co. Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann Central Asia-Almaty LLP, Wimm-Bill-Dann Foods LLC, Wimm-Bill-Dann Georgia Ltd., Wimm-Bill-Dann JSC, and Wimm-Bill-Dann Ukraine PJSC.

Read More
The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking segments. The company offers personal deposits, such as checking, savings, and investment products; financing, investment, cash management, international trade, and day-to-day banking services to businesses; and financing options to customers at point of sale for automotive and recreational vehicle purchases. It also provides credit cards and payments; real estate secured lending, auto finance, and consumer lending services; point-of-sale payment solutions for large and small businesses; wealth and asset management products, and advice to retail and institutional clients through direct investing, advice-based, and asset management businesses; and property and casualty insurance, as well as life and health insurance products. The company also provides capital markets, and corporate and investment banking products and services, including underwriting and distribution of new debt and equity issues; advice on strategic acquisitions and divestitures; and trading, funding, and investment services to corporations, governments, and institutions. It offers its products and services under the TD Bank and America's Most Convenient Bank brand names. The company operates through a network of 1,061 branches and 3,381 automated teller machines (ATMs) in Canada, and 1,148 stores and 2,701 ATMs in the United States, as well as offers telephone, digital, and mobile banking services. It has a strategic alliance with Canada Post Corporation. The Toronto-Dominion Bank was founded in 1855 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
Eileen T. Lake, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Jessie M. Scott Endowed Term Chair in Nursing and Health Policy, and CHOPR Associate Director. Credit: Penn Nursing

Everybody wants a healthy life for their baby. Black babies are more likely to be born prematurely, which puts them at risk for death and developmental problems. In fact, a third of all infant deaths are preterm-related. The critical period in preterm babies' lives is when they are just born and are in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The care they receive is vital to a healthy future.

NICU nurses are quite important because the babies are completely dependent, not fully developed, and require intensive treatments and monitoring. NICU nurses also teach and guide the parents of NICU infants, which is essential so the parents can care for the vulnerable babies when they go home.

Until now, we have not known whether nurses are able to complete all the care that is required for these complex infants. It is generally expected that a neonatal critical care unit is adequately staffed and that all required care is provided. Is it possible that nursing care is missed routinely in some NICUs?

A new study from University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing's Center for Health Outcomes and Policy Research (CHOPR) compared missed nursing care in NICUs caring for high and low fractions of black infants. Indeed, nurses in hospitals with one-third or more percent black infants missed 50% more nursing care than those in hospitals with less than one-tenth percent black infants. Additionally, nurses cared for a significantly higher number of babies in the hospitals with a high-black infant population. The predominant types of care missed, such as teaching and counseling parents, and preparation for discharge, address parents' capabilities and readiness for infant care at home. The study is set for publication in an upcoming issue of Health Services Research, but is available now online first here.

"If I was a mom and my baby was being cared for in a NICU, I would be really worried about care being missed, as any parent would be. It is very distressing that black moms have more to worry about at an already stressful time." says lead-author Eileen T. Lake, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Jessie M. Scott Endowed Term Chair in Nursing and Health Policy, and CHOPR Associate Director.

The research team used survey data from more than 1,000 staff nurses in 134 NICUs in California, Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Missed nursing care is a unique measure that reveals the clinical care process. Missed care is defined as required nursing care that is omitted or delayed in response to multiple demands or inadequate resources.

"Missed nursing care could affect the survival, growth, and development of these infants. Because we know that outcomes are so dependent on care processes," said Lake. "In hospitals where most black infants are born, inferior care from the point of birth could have lifetime consequences. Thus inadequate staffing levels and substandard work environments set nurses up for missing care. Hospitals need to fix their staffing levels and improve their environments so that nurses can do their jobs as they are dedicated to."

This study underscores the need for more supportive care environments in high-black NICUs to assure adequate staffing and that individual nurses are not overloaded.
Mark Jeffrey, transported prisoner.

The children of convicts born in the Australian colonies grew up taller than they would have done if their parents had not been sent into exile, our latest study shows.

Male Tasmanian-born prisoners, arrested in the second half of the nineteenth century, were over four centimetres taller, on average, than transported convicts. And they were nearly two centimetres taller than free migrants who were born in Britain and Ireland. This height advantage provides a vivid illustration of the difference in conditions experienced by old- and new-world working-class people in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth century.

The differences in height are the result of a number of different public and personal health factors, including the increased availability of food (protein was comparatively abundant and affordable in the Australian colonies, and the comparatively benign environment (lower population density and cleaner drinking water). These factors, which inhibited childhood growth in the UK, enabled the Australian-born children to be taller than their UK-born parents (80% of height potential is genetic, and 20% is determined by environment).

This is one of a number of surprising findings to come out of the Digital Panopticon project, a survey of tens of thousands of convicts that British courts sent to the Australian penal colonies between 1788 and 1868. The careful piecing together of life histories for transported convicts and convicts who were confined in British prisons, reveals the longer-term impacts of transportation and imprisonment.

Surprisingly good health

It is now possible to prove that, while Australian convicts were coerced and subjected to a frightening array of punishments, their health was surprisingly good  at least for those who survived the trip.

After the high rates of mortality on some early convict voyages, the mandatory inclusion of surgeons on subsequent voyages greatly improved the survival rates of those who sailed. It also helped that sick and weak prisoners were precluded from taking the voyage, so most convicts survived.

From the 1850s onwards, every Australian colony routinely printed descriptions of discharged prisoners. Among the identifying details contained in these notices are information on place and year of birth, height, ship that brought an individual to the colony and details of the offence the person was convicted of.

Using those records, our analysis of the heights of prisoners reveals that Tasmanians (many of whom were the children of convicts) not only grew up taller than people born in the UK, but they were also taller than those born in the Australian mainland colony of Victoria.

Although Victoria boomed after the discovery of gold in 1851, and was much wealthier than Tasmania, Tasmania's slower economic growth protected locals from some of the more pernicious side effects of rapid urbanisation, including deteriorating water quality and a rise in associated childhood diseases. Victorian cities were therefore much more similar to UK cities, and suffered similar disadvantages.

Our analysis also revealed that if your mother had been a convict, you were more likely to be taller than prisoners whose mothers had not been convicts. This could be the result of the small size of convict families. Female convicts weren't allowed to marry until most of their sentence had been served, so they tended to start families later in life, and this reduced family size. As the families of former convicts tended to be small, it is possible that more resources, especially food, were available per child.

There is little evidence to suggest that Tasmanian children born to convict parents went on to endure repeated spells in local prisons. There is, however, reliable evidence that those transported to Tasmania experienced better lives than those who were imprisoned in the UK  at least in terms of health  and that was also the case with their children and their grandchildren.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
The order of colors, from left to right, from most efficient to least efficient for English, Spanish and Tsimane'. Credit: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The human eye can perceive millions of different colors, but the number of categories human languages use to group those colors is much smaller. Some languages use as few as three color categories (words corresponding to black, white, and red), while the languages of industrialized cultures use up to 10 or 12 categories.

In a new study, MIT cognitive scientists have found that languages tend to divide the "warm" part of the color spectrum into more color words, such as orange, yellow, and red, compared to the "cooler" regions, which include blue and green. This pattern, which they found across more than 100 languages, may reflect the fact that most objects that stand out in a scene are warm-colored, while cooler colors such as green and blue tend to be found in backgrounds, the researchers say.

This leads to more consistent labeling of warmer colors by different speakers of the same language, the researchers found.

"When we look at it, it turns out it's the same across every language that we studied. Every language has this amazing similar ordering of colors, so that reds are more consistently communicated than greens or blues," says Edward Gibson, an MIT professor of brain and cognitive sciences and the first author of the study, which appears in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences the week of Sept. 18.

The paper's other senior author is Bevil Conway, an investigator at the National Eye Institute (NEI). Other authors are MIT postdoc Richard Futrell, postdoc Julian Jara-Ettinger, former MIT graduate students Kyle Mahowald and Leon Bergen, NEI postdoc Sivalogeswaran Ratnasingam, MIT research assistant Mitchell Gibson, and University of Rochester Assistant Professor Steven Piantadosi.

Color me surprised

Gibson began this investigation of color after accidentally discovering during another study that there is a great deal of variation in the way colors are described by members of the Tsimane', a tribe that lives in remote Amazonian regions of Bolivia. He found that most Tsimane' consistently use words for white, black, and red, but there is less agreement among them when naming colors such as blue, green, and yellow.

Working with Conway, who was then an associate professor studying visual perception at Wellesley College, Gibson decided to delve further into this variability. The researchers asked about 40 Tsimane' speakers to name 80 color chips, which were evenly distributed across the visible spectrum of color.

Once they had these data, the researchers applied an information theory technique that allowed them to calculate a feature they called "surprisal," which is a measure of how consistently different people describe, for example, the same color chip with the same color word.

When a particular word (such as "blue" or "green") is used to describe many color chips, then one of these chips has higher surprisal. Furthermore, chips that people tend to label consistently with just one word have a low surprisal rate, while chips that different people tend to label with different words have a higher surprisal rate. The researchers found that the color chips labeled in Tsimane', English, and Spanish were all ordered such that cool-colored chips had higher average surprisals than warm-colored chips (reds, yellows, and oranges).

The researchers then compared their results to data from the World Color Survey, which performed essentially the same task for 110 languages around the world, all spoken by nonindustrialized societies. Across all of these languages, the researchers found the same pattern.

This reflects the fact that while the warm colors and cool colors occupy a similar amount of space in a chart of the 80 colors used in the test, most languages divide the warmer regions into more color words than the cooler regions. Therefore, there are many more color chips that most people would call "blue" than there are chips that people would define as "yellow" or "red."

"What this means is that human languages divide that space in a skewed way," Gibson says. "In all languages, people preferentially bring color words into the warmer parts of the space and they don't bring them into the cooler colors."

Colors in the forefront

To explore possible explanations for this trend, the researchers analyzed a database of 20,000 images collected and labeled by Microsoft, and they found that objects in the foreground of a scene are more likely to be a warm color, while cooler colors are more likely to be found in backgrounds.

"Warm colors are in the foreground, they're all the stuff that we interact with and want to talk about," Gibson says. "We need to be able to talk about things which are identical except for their color: objects."

Gibson now hopes to study languages spoken by societies found in snowy or desert climates, where background colors are different, to see if their color naming system is different from what he found in this study.
Credit: University of Arizona

A high prevalence of depression among older individuals with dementia is prompting researchers at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy and Banner Alzheimer's Institute to investigate depression treatment among this population.

The objective of the study is to provide real-world evidence for health-care providers, patients and caregivers to make informed decisions about treating depression among older adults with dementia. Findings from this study also have the potential to significantly influence standards of depression treatment for these individuals.

Sandipan Bhattacharjee, PhD, UA assistant professor of pharmacy, received $153,500 from the National Institute of Mental Health to lead the study which began this August and extends through July 2019. No study to date has evaluated the appropriateness and outcomes of depression treatment among older adults with dementia and depression in real-world scenarios.

"Behavioral problems, including depression, are a leading cause of health-care expenditures, nursing home placement and caregiver burden in dementia," said Dr. Bhattacharjee, the study's principal investigator. "Getting appropriate treatment for depression among patients diagnosed with dementia can significantly reduce related health-care costs while improving quality of life for patients."

Clinicians long have known that a link exists between depression and dementia, as both conditions display similar symptoms in patients, including loss of interest, apathy, reduced energy and difficulty with concentration. When evaluating patients with new concerns about memory loss, it is imperative for clinicians to recognize significant depression.

"Depression is one of the truly reversible conditions that can be confused with dementia, and if treated adequately, memory can improve," said William Burke, MD, director of the Stead Family Memory Center at Banner Alzheimer's Institute in Phoenix and co-investigator for the study.

This research will be conducted using Medicare claims data from 2011 to 2013 for adults age 65 and older who were diagnosed with dementia and depression. The research aims to:

Quantify the extent and identify predictors of inappropriate antidepressant use;

Determine the degree and predictors of patient adherence to recommended treatment plans during the first 4-8 months of treatment;

Examine health outcomes and expenditures associated with recommended treatment plans.

Dr. Bhattacharjee said there is much information to glean from this large data set.

"We are looking at all of the predictors that may contribute to inappropriate depression treatment - such as patients receiving medications identified as inappropriate for use among individuals with dementia. We also are looking at outcomes associated with appropriate treatment, including demographics, co-morbidity of medical conditions, geographic location, patient adherence to treatment, prescribing physician patterns and any other themes that emerge from our research."

Apart from providing real-world evidence of depression treatment effectiveness, findings from the study have the potential to influence national guidelines for treating depression among older adults with dementia.

"This is an area we need to know more about. While we don't have a cure for dementia or other neurocognitive diseases like Alzheimer's, we do have treatment for depression," said Dr. Burke. "The goal of treatment for this population is finding solutions that have an impact on quality of life."
HIV (yellow) infecting a human immune cell. Credit: Seth Pincus, Elizabeth Fischer and Austin Athman, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health

Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM) have discovered a way to slow viral replication in the gastrointestinal tract of people infected by HIV-AIDS.

This advance, published in JCI Insight, might well lead to the development of a new therapeutic strategy to supplement antiretroviral therapy (ART), improving the control of viral replication in HIV-infected persons and preventing complications associated with chronic infection.

"We have identified a molecule that stimulates HIV replication in CD4 T cells located in the gut," said Petronela Ancuta, a CRCHUM researcher and professor at UdeM. "We have also started testing medications to block this replication and decrease inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. This is a promising new approach to eradicate HIV, or at least to achieve functional cure."

The ART used to treat HIV-infected persons can decrease viral loads to often undetectable blood levels, and is effective in preventing evolution of the infection towards acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). But HIV is tenacious. "In spite of the effectiveness of antivirals, it hides in specific immune system cells, the CD4 T cells, which harbour the virus and form viral 'reservoirs' in various peripheral tissues, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract," Ancula explained. "Inside these 'reservoirs,' some viral organisms continue to replicate, which leads to harmful inflammation in the gut. Hence the idea to limit viral replication at all levels and to counteract inflammation."

"The digestive tract is an environment conducive to viral 'reservoirs'," added the study's lead author, Delphine Planas, a CRCHUM doctoral candidate. "Our research demonstrates that CD4 T cells which migrate from the blood to the gut will be modified. En route, they acquire the tools that aid the virus in infecting them. Identifying these tools helps us understand why the gut represents a sort of sanctuary favourable to HIV, and thus how to combat these 'reservoirs'."

An HIV 'postal code'

CD4 T cells migrate from the blood to the gut thanks to marker molecules expressed on their surface; some of these, called CCR6, act like a "postal code" for the cells, indicating they should direct themselves to the gut. Previously, the researchers had shown that cells expressing the CCR6 molecule are preferential targets of in-vitro infection, and are viral "reservoirs" in subjects being treated with ART.

Using biopsies of the sigmoid colon and blood of HIV-infected persons on ART therapy, Ancuta's team, along with one led by Jean-Pierre Routy of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), has now discovered that in the colon, the CD4 T cells which express the CCR6 postal code also contain a large amount of another molecule called mTOR, an important regulator of metabolic mechanisms.

"It is the mTOR molecule which is in part responsible for the high vulnerability to HIV of the CD4 T lymphocytes expressing CCR6 and residing in the gut," explained Planas.

A potential treatment

By interfering with mTOR activity during in-vitro experiments with existing medications, researchers have been able to significantly reduce HIV replication in the cells of HIV-infected patients whose viral load was undetectable.

Medications inhibiting mTOR activity are used successfully in the treatment of cancer and diabetes. Other studies are needed to validate their use in the treatment of HIV-AIDS. But researchers already recognize the potential for improving quality of life and increasing chances of curing HIV-infected patients by using mTOR inhibitors to supplement antiretroviral treatments.

"In specifically targeting CD4 T cells carrying the CCR6 molecule, which contains dormant HIV, we think these medications will decrease gastrointestinal inflammation of individuals on ART," Ancuna said. "Over the long term, we hope that this type of treatment will reduce even more the amount of virus persisting in gut reservoirs. Therefore, this is an important strategy to cure HIV, and one that deserves to be tested."

More information: Delphine Planas et al, HIV-1 selectively targets gut-homing CCR6+CD4+ T cells via mTOR-dependent mechanisms, JCI Insight (2017). Delphine Planas et al, HIV-1 selectively targets gut-homing CCR6+CD4+ T cells via mTOR-dependent mechanisms,(2017). DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.93230
Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites are filled with misfolded alpha-synuclein and are hallmark pathologies of brain tissue in Parkinson's disease. The nuclei of olfactory bulb cells are visualized with a blue-fluorescent dye. The abnormal alpha-synuclein is visualized in red fluorescence by staining with a specific antibody. Credit: Max Planck Research Unit for Neurogenetics

University of Auckland research has found an anatomical link for the loss of the sense of smell in Parkinson's disease.

The research, published in the journal Brain, is the work of academics Associate Professor Maurice Curtis, Dr Victor Dieriks, Dr Sheryl Tan and Sir Richard Faull. All are part of the Centre for Brain Research at the University's Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences.

They worked alongside academics Dr Peter Mombaerts and Dr Bolek Zapiec from the Max Planck Research Unit for Neurogenetics in Frankfurt, Germany. The work in New Zealand was funded by the Neuro Research Charitable Trust, founded by Bernie Crosby who himself has Parkinson's disease. The work in Germany was funded by the Max Planck Society.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder of the brain. Symptoms include tremors, stiffness or rigidity, and slowness of movement. According to Parkinson's New Zealand, approximately 1 percent of people over the age of 60 have the condition. There is no cure so treatment will normally focus on managing symptoms, typically with medication.

Loss of the sense of smell is an often overlooked but remarkably prevalent early symptom of Parkinson's disease.

"A complete loss of smell or a diminished sense of smell often precedes the usual motor symptoms of this neurodegenerative disease by several years, and has a prevalence of 90 per cent in early-stage patients," Associate Professor Curtis says.

The olfactory bulb is a part of the brain that acts as a primary relay station for smell signals from olfactory sensory neurons that detect smells in the nose. These neurons identify smells in the environment. Smell signals are transmitted via axons  the long thread-like part of a nerve cell - of the sensory neurons, which terminate and come together into thousands of structures called glomeruli. The odour-induced signals are processed in the olfactory bulb and relayed to several other parts of the brain including the olfactory cortex.

The researchers compared the olfactory bulbs from people with and without Parkinson's disease and found that the volume taken up by the glomeruli (the functional units of the olfactory bulb) was reduced by more than half in Parkinson's patients. The researchers discovered that the distribution of the glomeruli was greatly altered. The olfactory bulbs of normal cases had 70 per cent of their glomerular component in the bottom half of the olfactory bulb, but the olfactory bulbs of Parkinson's disease cases had only 44 per cent in the bottom half.

This reduction is consistent with the hypothesis that Parkinson's disease begins with bacteria, viruses or environmental toxins entering the brain via the nose and affecting first the olfactory bulb, where the neurodegenerative disease is triggered and gradually spreads through other parts of the brain.

Ventral view of glomeruli in a human olfactory bulb. Single glomeruli are represented in confetti-like colours. Credit: Max Planck Research Unit for Neurogenetics

The New Zealand-based researchers were able to collect olfactory bulbs fit for an in-depth quantitative study. In a globe-spanning project, the researchers processed the post mortem olfactory bulbs, cut thousands of ten-micrometer thin sections throughout its entire length, and stained the sections with fluorescently labeled antibodies. The labeled sections were then scanned in Frankfurt, and the images reconstructed in 3-D allowing for quantitative whole-olfactory bulb analyses.

"The research has required painstaking attention to detail and collaboration on an international scale. The drive within our international team has been significant to see that this work was done to a high standard and that we used the generously gifted human brain tissue to gain the best results possible," Associate Professor Curtis says.

As glomeruli of the human olfactory bulb are difficult to count unambiguously, the researchers came up with a new, quantitative parameter: the global glomerular voxel volume. This quantity is the sum of the volume of all the glomeruli in the olfactory bulb. Having defined this new parameter, the researchers compared the values between olfactory bulbs from normal and Parkinson's disease cases, and found that it was reduced by more than half. Whether the decrease is the result of Parkinson's patients having fewer or smaller glomeruli, or is due to a combination of these two effects, remains to be seen.

The Neurological Foundation of New Zealand Douglas Human Brain Bank at the University of Auckland worked closely with families of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases to ensure ethical and effective tissue collection of postmortem brain samples from people with Parkinson's disease, and people without.

This research will be followed up with further work to understand what causes the glomeruli to deteriorate in Parkinson's disease and to demonstrate what other changes occur in the olfactory bulb in Parkinson's disease. This work is already underway.

More information: Bolek Zapiec et al. A ventral glomerular deficit in Parkinson's disease revealed by whole olfactory bulb reconstruction, Brain (2017). Journal information: Brain Bolek Zapiec et al. A ventral glomerular deficit in Parkinson's disease revealed by whole olfactory bulb reconstruction,(2017). DOI: 10.1093/brain/awx208
Lung tissue. Credit: Rutgers University

A recent study has identified a new lung cell type that is implicated in the body's innate immune defense against the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniaeone of the leading causes of pneumonia worldwide.

The findings, which appear in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, may lead to new, non-traditional approaches in the fight against pneumonia and chronic lung diseases.

There are two classifications of cells in the human body: germ cells that are used to make sperm and eggs and somatic cells that make up every other cell in the body including lung cells. There are widespread differences between germ cells and somatic cells underscoring their markedly different roles in human biology. It was previously thought that the MIWI2 gene was only expressed in male germ cells as part of a family of genes that ensure the proper development of sperm. However, researchers at Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) have discovered that not only is the same gene expressed in somatic cells in the body, but also marks a distinct population of multi-ciliated cells that line the upper airways of the lung.

"These ciliated cells have hair-like projections that function to sweep mucous and other foreign material out of the lung. However, what sets this new population of ciliated cells apart is that they express the MIWI2 protein and in this report, were found to have a specialized role in controlling lung infection," explains corresponding author Matthew Jones, PhD, assistant professor of medicine at BUSM.

"Pneumonia is a world-wide public health burden and a leading cause of death from infection. Together with the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria it is now more critical than ever to develop new methods for combating this pathogen. It is our hope that we can leverage these molecular insights to develop novel therapeutic strategies," added Jones.

According to the researchers, the new cell type and pattern of gene expression may also lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind diseases like COPD and asthmainflammatory conditions that involve changes in the airway cellular composition. The authors are hopeful next steps will lead to new ways of investigating how the body reacts to infectious bacteria in the lung.
Research in England has found that the proposed test was no more accurate than the teachers judgement in identifying children with reading difficulties. Credit: Shutterstock

Minister Birmingham released a report today recommending that all Year 1 students in Australia complete a phonics test. The panel responsible for the report has recommended that Australia adopt the Year 1 phonics screening check that has been used in England since 2011.

What is phonics?

Phonics is the process of matching sounds to letters. It is an important skill when learning to read and write in English. There are two main approaches to teaching children phonics - synthetic phonics and analytic phonics.

Analytic phonics starts with taking a word that children know the meaning of, and then analysing it to see how the sounds in the word match the letters we see within the word. So five-year-old Emma will learn that her name starts with the sound "e" which is represented by the capital letter E, followed by the sound "m" which is represented by the two letters "mm," and ends with the sound "u," which is represented by the letter a.

Synthetic phonics starts with letters which the children learn to match with sounds. The meaning of the words are irrelevant, and indeed, inconsequential. The theory is that the children should master letter/sound matches first before trying to attend to meaning.

Which phonics method is better?

There is no evidence that one phonics approach is better than the other. In England, the US and Australia, there have been major inquiries into reading and all have concluded that systematic and explicit phonics teaching is a crucial part of effective reading instruction. But none have found any evidence that synthetic phonics approaches are better than analytic phonics approaches, or vice versa.

All inquiries have concluded that whatever phonic instruction method is chosen, it should be one part of a suite of skills children should have when learning to read.

What is the phonics test?

The phonics test is based on synthetic phonics. The children are given 40 words on a computer screen, with no context. The words are not put in a sentence, or given any meaning. This is deliberate, and an important feature of a synthetic phonics approach, as the children must show they are not relying on meaning or prior experience with the word in order to successfully decode it.

To this end, 20 of the words the children are given are nonsense words, like "thrand," "poth" and "froom," to ensure they are not using meaning to decode the words.

Why are we introducing it?

Minister Birmingham is concerned about the numbers of students in Australia who are struggling with literacy. The decline in literacy standards of Year 9 students is very concerning, and he is right to be looking for solutions. But the solution will not be found in this phonics test for six-year-olds.

As the test has been has already been in use for six years in England we are fortunate to be able to learn from their experience. A major evaluation of the test conducted by the Department for Education in England found that the test is not delivering improvements in literacy capabilities, and in fact, is delivering some unwanted side effects, like class time being spent learning to read nonsense words rather than real words.

Numerous other recent studies of the implementation of the phonics test in England provide valuable information that allow us to test the claims for the test against research evidence.

What does the research say?

Claim: The phonics test has improved reading results in England since its introduction.

Evidence: Year 1 children in England are certainly getting better at passing the phonics test. Over the past six years, pass rates have increased by 23%. This means around 90% of Year 1 children in England can now successfully read nonsense words like "yune" and "thrand."

However, research has found that the ability to read nonsense words is an unreliable predictor of later reading success.

And so far, the phonics test in England has not improved reading comprehension scores.

As the test only tests single syllable words with regular phonic patterns, it is not possible to know how many English children can read words like "one," "was," "two," "love," "what," "who," or "because," as such words are not included in the test. This is unfortunate because these are amongst the 100 most common words in the English language, which in turn make up 50% of the words we read everyday - whether in a novel, a newspaper article or a government form.

"Yune," "thrand" and "poth," on the other hand, make 0% of the words we read.

Claim: The phonics test will pick up children who are having reading difficulties. Birmingham has stated "the idea behind these checks is to ensure students don't slip through the cracks."

Evidence: Research in England has found that the test was no more accurate than the teacher's judgement in identifying children with reading difficulties. Teachers already know which children struggle. As researchers, teachers and principals have all said - teachers need more support in knowing how to support those struggling children.

Claim: The phonics test will provide detailed diagnostics to support teachers to make effective interventions. The chair of the panel recommending the test says that the phonics test will drill into the detail of phonics to establish what children know.

Evidence: A thorough analysis of the test's components found it fails to test some of the most common sound/letter matches in English, and indeed screens for a very limited number of the hundreds of sound/letter matches in English. They found that children can achieve the pass grade of 32 from 40 with only limited phonic knowledge.

Other research found the test fails to give any information about what the specific phonic struggles of a child might be , or whether the struggles are indeed with phonics.

These limitations mean the check has negligible diagnostic or instructional use for classroom teachers.

Learning lessons

Australia is in the fortunate position of being able to learn from the research that has been conducted since the implementation of the phonics test and mandatory synthetic phonics teaching in England. The lesson is clear. The test is unable to deliver what was hoped. Australia should look elsewhere for answers to its literacy challenges.

Already state Education Ministers have begun to let Birmingham know that they will not be taking up the offer of the national phonics test.

This may be an issue where Australia is able to overcome its intellectual cringe, and act on the research evidence rather than old colonial ties.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
(HealthDay)Most physicians on Twitter with a financial conflict of interest (FCOI) and frequent tweets mention specific drugs for which they have a conflict, according to a study published in the September issue of The Lancet Haematology.

Victoria Kaestner, from the Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, and colleagues examined whether conflicted physicians tweet about specific products for which they have a FCOI. A total of 156 physicians who tweeted a median of 584 times were included, with a 2014 median general payment totaling $13,600.

The researchers found that 81 percent of the physicians mentioned at least one drug from a company for which they had a FCOI and 88 percent mentioned at least one drug for which they did not have an FCOI. Fifty-two percent of the 4,358 total drug mentions regarded conflicted drugs. Only 1.3 percent of the physicians included a disclosure relating to their payment; these were in their twitter biography. Conflicted tweets were more likely to be positive, similarly likely to be neutral, and less likely to be negative, compared with tweets about non-conflicted drugs coded at random.

"Our results raise the concern that financial conflict of interest must be considered with the growing use of social media to discuss cancer products and practices, as well as policies regarding disclosure, divesture, audit, and recusal may be considered," the authors write.

Copyright  2017 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Most private patients who have had knee replacement surgery recover just as well with a cheaper form of rehabilitation than many are currently offered, research published today in the Medical Journal of Australia shows.

We found people who have had uncomplicated total knee arthroplasty recover just as fast and with similar outcomes after out-patient rehab  which involves people leaving hospital and having regular visits to a physiotherapist  rather than the costly in-patient option, where patients stay in hospital for their rehab.

Not only could most private patients avoid up to two weeks in hospital, they could save themselves or their insurers several thousands of dollars.

What is knee arthroplasty?

Knee arthroplasty is major surgery, involving complex anaesthesia, removing the diseased knee joint and inserting artificial joint parts. Patients take a long time to recover; knee pain and swelling, and even muscle weakness, last for many months afterwards.

It's a very common procedure. There's a one in five chance of women having the procedure at some point in their lives; for men, that's one in seven. The main reasons people have the surgery include severe knee pain or an unstable knee, mostly due to age-related osteoarthritis.

Over 50,000 knee arthroplasty surgeries are performed in Australia each year, with over two-thirds in the private sector.

The number of procedures is rising because more people have age-related osteoarthritis, partly because we are living longer and partly because we are becoming more overweight, which puts more pressure on the knees.

The surgery also seems to be safer than it used to be, including for elderly people. So, anecdotally, people are opting to have the surgery now where before they may have thought it too risky.

What rehab options are there?

Rehab options after knee surgery can vary depending on whether you're a public or private patient.

In the public system, in-patient rehab is generally reserved for patients who are too frail to go home, who have no support at home, or have had complications after surgery. Most public patients attend rehab as an out-patient.

But in-patient rehab is more common for private patients, whose surgeon may offer it as an option.

While physiotherapy is the mainstay of formal rehab for both public and private patients, those who attend as an in-patient can also see other health professionals like rehab physicians, occupational therapists and nurses.

Private patients who choose in-patient rehab after knee surgery typically stay in hospital for 7-14 days. This adds another A$9,500 or so to the median A$22,000 bill for the surgery itself. By comparison, we found rehab as an out-patient costs just a median A$374.

Which is better value for money?

To find out which option gave private patients the best outcomes, we conducted a national study involving privately insured people who had undergone uncomplicated total knee arthroplasty. We then compared the outcomes between people who had in-patient therapy with those who went straight home.

People with significant complications following surgery, who progressed slowly in the early days after surgery, and people with limited help at home, were excluded from our study.

To ensure we compared apples with apples, we matched people who went to in-patient rehab with those who did not on many characteristics including age, gender, body-mass index (a measure of obesity), and the severity of disease before surgery.

We phoned people 35, 90 and 365 days after surgery and asked for details about their recovery and the types of rehabilitation they had.

People who received in-patient therapy reported similar knee-joint pain, and similar function and quality of life. Patients and their carers also took the same time off work regardless of the rehab option.

Median rehab costs for those who had in-patient therapy (A$9,978) were also much higher than costs for those who did not (A$374). The higher costs were due to the in-patient component, but, interestingly, also slightly more community-based therapy.

The main implication of our study is, given the cost difference between rehabilitation options, community-based (non-inpatient) alternatives seem to be better value.

What do we make of all this?

Our findings support our earlier trial published this year, as well as one by a Canadian team published almost ten years ago.

Together, these studies suggest community-based rehab is better value for patients without complications, regardless of whether they are public or private patients.

We acknowledge that patients who receive in-patient rehab are generally very satisfied with it; they enjoy the convenience of the "one stop shop" and it may provide respite for carers.

However, we also know patients who go home are also satisfied; many surgeons and physiotherapists also rate community-based therapy very highly.

The challenge for researchers, health-care providers, governments, patients and policymakers is to encourage the uptake of community-based therapies where appropriate so that in-patient rehab is reserved for those most in need.

If private sector rehab costs are kept in check, there is less pressure on health insurance premiums to rise. Hopefully, this in turn, encourages people to stay insured.

How do I choose what's best for me?

To choose the best rehab option for you, here are three questions to ask your surgeon before your operation:

How do I know if I need in-patient rehab? If I choose in-patient rehab, will I recover more quickly or better? What are my rehab options other than as an in-patient?

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
There is a continued decline in demand for IT jobs in South Africa in 2017, according to the latest CareerJunction Index report.

The demand for IT professionals is much lower than what it was a year ago, according to the report.

The CareerJunction Index uses data gathered from the CareerJunction website to represent labour dynamics in South Africa.

According to the report, slowing demand is evident within the ICT sector  with vacancy levels significantly lower than a year ago.

It is, however, not only the ICT sector which is suffering in South Africa.

Labour demand in South Africa has experienced a significant decline since the beginning of the year.

The charts below show the volume trends for IT job adverts published on the CareerJunction website over the past 12 months, and labour demand over time.

Now read: How Zuma and friends are killing IT jobs in South Africa
QS World University Rankings has released its Graduate Employability Rankings for 2018.

The rankings feature 495 universities across the world and provides vital information about how successful todays students are at securing a top job after graduation.

Stanford University has retained its place at the top of this years ranking, helped by the fact it achieved perfect scores in three categories: employer reputation, alumni outcomes, and partnerships with employers, stated the report.

Institutions from the US, UK, Australia, and China performed the best in the rankings report, which covered universities from 65 countries.

Top South African universities

The top 10 universities from the Graduate Employability Rankings, along with the top South African universities, are shown below.

QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2018 Rank University Country 1 Stanford University USA 2 University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) USA 3 Harvard University USA 4 The University of Sydney AUS 5 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) USA 6 University of Cambridge UK 7 The University of Melbourne AUS 8 University of Oxford UK 9 University of California, Berkeley (UCB) USA 10 Tsinghua University China 101-110 University of Cape Town RSA 201-250 University of the Witwatersrand RSA 251-300 University of Pretoria RSA 301-500 Stellenbosch University RSA 301-500 University of Johannesburg RSA 301-500 University of KwaZulu-Natal RSA

Now read: Bad news for local IT jobseekers
World Wide Worx has revealed the results of its latest research into South Africas social media landscape.

Managing director Arthur Goldstuck said the number of people on Facebook in South Africa has grown to 16 million  with 14 million accessing the service from a mobile device.

The data shows that mobile is driving social in South Africa, and particularly that mobile is driving Facebook, said Goldstuck.

He said we are heading toward a third of South Africas population being on Facebook.

Bearing in mind that under-13s are not allowed on Facebook, that is close to half of the eligible population using the platform.

Twitter also remains a popular place for public discourse in South Africa, and Goldstuck said they have seen the number of subscribers grow slowly, but steadily.

They estimate the number of Twitter users in South Africa to be 8 million.

Subscriber numbers in 2017
World Wide Worx has stated that No Methods music video for Let Me Go is South Africas most popular YouTube video of the year (September 2016-August 2017).

The video was produced locally and the musicians who created it are based in Cape Town. No Method released the song in April, and it was soon the number one single on the 5FM and Good Hope FM charts.

The music video for the song was posted on YouTube on 11 April, and by July it had received over 10 million views.

As of 18 September, the Let Me Go music video had been viewed nearly 29 million times  while the audio-only video received over 680,000 views.

No Method is made up of Claire Rose and DJ Sam World, who is from Qatar.

As a result of the Middle Eastern influence in the song, the video was a hit in Turkey, and the duo are supported by a label in Turkey.

South Africans on YouTube

No Methods great YouTube achievements raises the question: For South Africans to enjoy success on YouTube, must they appeal to a global audience rather than focus on their local following?

You dont have to actively appeal outside South Africa, but you have to be world class, said World Wide Worx managing director Arthur Goldstuck.

He said the best example of this is Cobus Potgieter, a South African who produced a series of drumming tuition videos on YouTube.

Based on the sheer quality of the videos he produced and his drumming skills, Potgieter was invited to be a session drummer in Los Angeles.

While you should appeal to a global audience to achieve the best traction for your videos, it is the quality of the videos that is important, said Goldstuck.

The top 10 content categories on YouTube in South Africa are summarised in the graph below.

Now read: YouTube launches variable speed playback on mobile
WB: Debt levels among low- and middle-income countries soared in 2021

Scholz: Adopting a joint G20 summit statement is a tough task

IMF head warns of risks for world economy because of rivalry between China and US

Irakli Garibashvili: Georgia is ready to promote in every possible way the dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Red Wings airline launches direct flights from Makhachkala to Yerevan

Olaf Scholz: EU should expand its cooperation with Southeast Asian countries

Global Leadership Foundation will visit Armenia

Kurdistan Workers' Party denies its involvement in Istanbul terrorist attack

NATO Secretary General says they must not make mistake of underestimating Russia

IRGC resumes strikes on Iraqi Kurdistan

French and German central bank heads call for speeding up EU capital markets union

Control of U.S. House of Representatives depends on several tight races

Artsakh FM speaks with his Transnistria counterpart

Italy, Greece, Malta and Cyprus say they cannot accept migrants

Cavusoglu thanks Mirzoyan for condolences on terrorist attack in Istanbul

Xi Jinping and Joe Biden begin first face-to-face meeting in Bali

Zelenskyy arrives in Kherson

Armenian Defense Minister: After expiration of contract service 5 million drams will be provided to servicemen

Turkey refuses to accept U.S. condolences after terrorist attack in Istanbul

Defense Ministers of Georgia and Azerbaijan sign military cooperation plan for 2023

Russian Foreign Ministry denies reports about Lavrov's hospitalization in Bali

Yellen hopes Biden and Jinping meeting leads to engagement on macroeconomic issues

Russian Defense Ministry confirms violation of ceasefire in Artsakh by Azerbaijani Armed Forces

Artsakh MOD denies accusations of Azerbaijani MOD

Azerbaijani Defense Minister holds talks in Georgia

Armenian MOD denies another lie of Azerbaijani MOD

Germany warns its delegation about Egyptian spies at COP27

NSS of Armenia reveals channel of illegal migration

Azerbaijani State Security Service announces disclosure of 'Iranian spy network'

Politico: Indonesia, hosting G20, lobbies West to soften criticism of Russia in final communique

Ararat Mirzoyan expresses condolences to Mevlut Cavusoglu over Istanbul explosion

Iranian lawmakers sharply criticize Aliyev

Ambassador-at-Large: Azerbaijan's attacks on Armenia are a terrorist attack

Germany needs to diversify its business interests in Asia to reduce dependence on China

Head of U.S. Treasury Department says sanctions against Russia should remain in force even after war in Ukraine

Natasa Pirc Musar to become Slovenia's first woman president

IMF: World economic outlook even bleaker than predicted

Pashinyan: Azerbaijan calls Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh 'our citizens' and at the same time shoots at them

Turkish Interior Minister announces arrest of suspect in attack on Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul

Alpine to make 3 electric crossovers

Number of injured in Istanbul blast rises to 81

Paul McCartney sells guitar for $77,000 to support Ukraine

Erdogan says preliminary findings after Istanbul bombing point to terrorist attack

Erdogan says number of victims of Istanbul bombing rises to six

Authorities forbid TV channels to broadcast from Istanbul bombing site

Istanbul blast: Governor reports 4 dead and 38 wounded

Media: Terrorist attack considered as one of versions of bombing in Istanbul

Blast in Istanbul: victims reported

Reuters: National Bank of Ukraine prepares banking system for power outages

Explosion hits pedestrian street in Istanbul

Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin calls for Turkey to be recognized as sponsor of terrorism

Bloomberg columnist says Japan may be preparing for war with China

Reuters: U.S. to demand EU colleagues to continue aid to Kyiv at G20

Washington Post: U.S. intelligence believes UAE tried to interfere in U.S. politics

Yeni Safak: Turkey increases sales of winter products, blankets in EU by almost third since beginning of year

Fox News: Trump has been silent on social media for over 24 hours amid Republican failures

Lebanon extradites to Iraq relative of Saddam Hussein

Financial Times: Kyiv plans to nationalize more private companies

U.S. Senate declares 'death' of Republican Party after congressional elections

Head of U.S. Customs resigned

President of Georgia Zourabichvili says about 100 thousand Russians settled in country

CNN: Democrats to retain control of Senate after congressional elections

Alen Simonyan: We are truly and sincerely committed to the peace agenda

Artak Beglaryan: Genocidal purpose is apparent

French maritime services rescue more than 140 migrants trying to swim across English Channel

Biden says he is satisfied with results of midterm elections in U.S.

Slovenia holds second round of presidential elections

'Witch' burned alive in India, 14 arrested

COVID-19 cases are expected to surge in Germany this winter

Dollar makes worst showing in week since early days of COVID-19 pandemic

Macron confirms France's readiness to support normalization of relations between Yerevan and Baku

Germany withdraws from Energy Charter Treaty

Is Jordan country that has not supplied arms to Armenia?: 'The press usually has reliable information'

European Commission approves nationalization of Russian Gazprom's German subsidiary

Pashinyan: If the state interferes with the exchange rate unnecessarily, the economy will only suffer

U.S. to work with strategic coalition of Southeast Asian countries

Armenian PM: To reform army, it is necessary to make military service more attractive

Defense Ministry: Azerbaijani Armed Forces opened fire at Armenian positions

Putin and Raisi discuss topical issues of the bilateral agenda

Blinken: Ukraine must decide on timing and content of any talks with Russia

Catholicos expresses hope that Russia efforts will contribute to ensuring free, safe life of Artsakh Armenians

More than 50 of poorest developing countries are on brink of bankruptcy, says UN official

Armenia ex-ombudsman: We are facing serious national security issues (PHOTOS)

Biden has no plans to meet with Saudi crown prince at G20 summit

EU offers natural gas price cap assurances amid disagreements with member countries

Scholz is against establishment of ceasefire in Ukraine on Kremlin's terms

Turkologist: Turkey does not support agenda of achieving peace with Armenians

Sweden to not permit deployment of nuclear weapons on its territory after joining NATO

Erdogan signs decree on appointing Turkey ambassador to Israel

Information security expert: Some Armenia officials received letter that they were victims of national hackers attack

Armenia FM meets with France minister of foreign trade

Foreign Policy: US to resume nuclear arms control talks with Russia

Armenia opposition MP: Artsakh army reduction is impermissible

Biden to warn Chinas Xi that North Korea path could lead to increase in US military presence

US Treasury chief: India can buy as much Russian oil as it wants

Newspaper: Armenia authorities trying to find legal grounds for signing peace treaty

Newspaper: People of Karabakh not going to tolerate final destruction of their army

Texas woman sentenced to death for killing pregnant woman, removing fetus from victim

Van Gogh's painting sold for a record $117 million

Gentiloni: EU countries have accumulated enough gas to get through the coming winter
YEREVAN.  The government of Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan has undertaken several initiatives to improve business climate in Armenia.

Ambassador Piotr Switalski, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Armenia, on Friday noted the above-said speaking to reporters. He added that this refers also to customs and tax authorities of the country.

In addition, Switalski said they encourage the Armenian government to be more active in drawing foreign capital to the country.

The EU diplomat noted that he hears positive views from many European business companies regarding Armenia, and that this is the right course, but other opportunities also need to be found.

In Ambassador Switalskis words, the measures aimed at independence of Armenias state and legal system and fight against corruption are very important, and solely very active involvement and policy can bring more European investments to the country.

Furthermore, the EU ambassador stressed that they hope that there will be peace in Armenia, since business loves peace and stability.
YEREVAN.  Baku is periodically attempting to give a religious connotation to the Karabakh-Azerbaijani conflict.

The Foreign Minister of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), Karen Mirzoyan, on Monday said the aforementioned along the lines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora Pan-Armenian Conference that got underway in Armenias capital city of Yerevan.

The Artsakh FM noted that the exploitation of the Islamic factor is distressing, especially in the context of the present-day situation in the Middle East.

Today, numerous Azerbaijanis are fighting in the ranks of the Islamic State terrorist group, Mirzoyan noted. And Azerbaijan is supplying illegal weapons to terrorists.

The FM added that the NKR has seen many ordeals and withstood with many challenges.

Our main challenge [today] is the conflict between Karabakh and Azerbaijan, Mirzoyan stressed. We [Artsakh] have repeatedly stated that the conflict can be resolved based on the international precepts; first of all, on the peoples right to self-determination.

In his words, however, since Azerbaijan has started an arms race, great attention should be paid to the modernization of the Artsakh army.

The [respective] steps that were taken have already enabled to improve the situation, said Mirzoyan.

But the NKR FM stressed that in actual fact, the Karabakh conflict is neither a religious nor a territorial conflict.

First of all, its a conflict of two different civilizations, he explained. On the one hand, the Karabakh and Armenian [civilization], which is based on respect for human rights, whereas on the other hand, the Azerbaijani [civilization], which is based on persecutions, use of force in foreign policy.
YEREVAN.  Azerbaijan is crossing red lines when it comes to Armenophobia, Karabakh Ombudsman Ruben Melikyan said during Armenia-Diaspora forum in Yerevan.

The office of Karabakh Ombudmsan will soon publish report, which will mention the facts of Armenophobia in Azerbaijan as they continue monitoring Azerbaijani social media posts.

The materials appearing on the web in February make it clear that Azerbaijanis speak about genocide. They twice declare that they will show Armenians what a genocide is. Armenophobia is not an academic phenomenon, it is not a manifestation of freedom of speech, Armenophobia created motivation for genocide, Melikyan stressed.

Referring to Azerbaijan's attempts to isolate Karabakh, Melikyan noted that Baku is trying to limit the visits to Artsakh through blacklists and criminal prosecution.

My Azerbaijani colleague says that Ramil Safarov [murderer who killed Armenian solider by an axe ed.], and we all know who he is, should serve as an example in the country, Ruben Melikyan added.

In addition, Karabakh Ombudsman also mentioned Azerbaijan's efforts to exploit the death of a child and her grandmother. However, Azerbaijan has not made any statement concerning the death of Vagharshak, a school child who was killed during Azerbaijani aggression on April 2, 2016.

We have not published photos not to hurt the feelings of his family, whereas Azerbaijan posted a photo of forensic examination, he added.
YEREVAN.  Russia is Armenia's ally and partner, and, of course, the issues of arms sales to Azerbaijan can be discussed during various meetings.

The Foreign Minister of Armenia, Edward Nalbandian, on Monday said the aforementioned along the lines of the 6th Armenia-Diaspora Pan-Armenian Conference that got underway in capital city Yerevan, and in response to the issue on Russia's arms sales to Azerbaijan.

The minister did not agree with the opinion that Russias position isolates Armenia or harms Armenias position on Karabakh.

According to the Foreign Minister, Russia along with France and the US is acting in accordance with the statements of the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group.

There is no conflict in the international arena where Russia and the United States have the same position. They was also joined by France, which represents the European Union. The co-chairs make statements to actually promote the negotiation process. And, what does Azerbaijan do? It still pretends that such statements don't exist," Edward Nalbandian noted.

The minister added that the approach of the Armenian side is consistent with the approaches of the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group.
My sugar daddy just gave me a couple hundred bucks for a half naked pic of me. It's so worth it

Reply

Thread

Link

where'd you get this hook up sis

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Seeking arrangements lol. It's actually really easy to use

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

He's so gorgeous

Reply

Thread

Link

id become a sugar baby only to george clooney

Reply

Thread

Link

I wish I could be a sugar baby but like get money for just text conversations

Reply

Thread

Link

Right? I don't want anything physical. But I'll have conversations until the sun goes up.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Same. I don't want to do anything else unless the guy is hot lmao.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I worked once in a small town where half of the teenagers and young adults were fucking sugar daddies and sugar mommas. It was their main goal in life.

I think it was the first time I saw so many male teens and young adults having relationships with sugar mommas.



god i hate that fucking town so much...

Reply

Thread

Link

i actually joined seeking arrangement my freshman year of college....



only to quietly dip when i started getting messages lmao

Reply

Thread

Link

A friend of a friend is a sugar baby. Homegirl gets paid 2 or 3k a date, insists on flying first class if there are trips and has to stay at the suuuuper nice hotels. I'd say 5 star but I don't know if those are common or not.

If I could have that arrangement, sign me up!

Reply

Thread

Link

Those are the best friends because you get to be their companion to the best travels and hotels. At least is what happened to me with the 2 sugar babies I was friend with at college =D

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Ugh. I wish.

My friend used to be a stripper. She had the offer quite a few times, but she couldn't go through with it. We fantasized about so many fancy downtowns apartments.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

If that happens at all it's definitely rare. Rich men aren't out here parting with thousands for nothing.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Also is Jessica Barden in the trailer?

Reply

Thread

Link

Wait. Is that Luke Wilson not getting a mention?

Reply

Thread

Link

Lol, I thought it was Luke Wilson too, but it's Timm Sharp. He's the one that's tagged on twitter and stuff at least

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i thought it was him at first too

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

absolutely yes lol, especially if it's non sexual, there has to be some mommy/daddy that is ok with non sexual interactions D;

Reply

Thread

Link

i remember there was a girl on this morning with one sugar daddy and she said she never had sex with any of them. (i think some of the guys didn't realise that she was not going to have sex with them though lol) mostly she just went on dates with them as arm candy and on holidays.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i hear those stories ALL the time and i'm like fuck, what i gotta do

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

when I was looking in to it, I read about some girls who end up controlling the man's finances. like, they never meet the guy, he just wants someone to send him pictures, and keep control of his finances so they take whatever money they want lol

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i'd love to be a SB tbh. esp if it's non sexual lmao. come thru, sa.com!

Reply

Thread

Link

i wasn't being serious lmao. point me the right way sis

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

I very seriously considered a sugar daddy when I was in college. A girl in my dorm had one and he was def an old geezer but I went on a "double date" with them and one of his friends and got paid $300 for it (it was legit just a date, the most I did was hold hands with the man) but he was ANCIENT and I was 17 and creeped out by why he wanted to be out with a minor so I said no. Homegirl eventually settled down with another sugar daddy (we're 24, he's like 40?) and they have a ranch and tons of animals and everything. It def worked out for her.

Reply

Thread

Link

i just started bingeing "riverdale" and it took me a minute to realize that veronica's mom is the daughter from "vegas vacation".

Reply

Thread

Link

All this time when people said Vegas Vacation, I thought they were talking about some cult classic comedy. And then the damn movie started playing at some place I was at, and the lightbulb finally clicked that they meant the National Lampoon movie

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Oh wow, I didn't know that! I guess I wasn't paying close enough attention when I watched Riverdale, haha. Vegas Vacation was just on earlier today, too.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i tried to be a sugar baby in college but i found out i just couldn't pander to old men's egos and play all demure and fawn over them. i got some hilarious horror stories out of the first dates i went on though, including finding out that before meeting this one guy, i had been communicating with his daughter who ran his profile, and that a close friendship with her would be a mandatory part of the arrangement

Reply

Thread

Link

wtffffffffffffff

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

WOW that is a... close family

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

oh hale naw

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Whattttt and now we got into incest territory

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

W H A T





also mte to the first part.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link
Excuse you, Laura Dern is a queen.





Reply

Thread

Link





ia she's fantastic in everything she's in

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I always confuse her & Laura Linney, even though they don't look alike

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I love them both, but I get it.



I have had a crush on Laura Dern since childhood.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

They're both fantastic blonde actresses who put their all in their roles, I get it.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

stay classy

Reply

Thread

Link

um Laura Dern is a fucking queen

Reply

Thread

Link

As the comments were loading I literally said out loud, "Laura Dern is a fucking queen."

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Well shit

Reply

Thread

Link

who cares about emmy's? this is so dumb.

Reply

Thread

Link

about Laura being a part of a child porn ring.

Reply

Thread

Link

Holy fucking shit

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

see below:





*bonus - another one about a dern looting like a nazi victim or something!

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

i mean, if that had been haily baldwin or idk jaden smith i'd get it, but laura dern has actual talent.

Reply

Thread

Link

I'm almost sure she's 100% joking lol. At least I hope she is, judging from her other tweets.

Reply

Thread

Link

uuuuh see her tweet about laurn dern a child porn ring.





Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

W T F is wrong with her

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I don't think she is at all.





Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

She's joking. They're just really bad jokes.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Same, I'm a bit confused by everyone acting like her response was genuine, I thought it was clear that she was deliberately going really OT and ridiculous in an attempt to be funny

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Oh wow.

Reply

Thread

Link

Oh shit I didn't watch, nor do I know these people, but I would've thought she was joking had it not been for that tweet



Oop

Reply

Thread

Link

I know she's joking but still RMEEEE

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

god her other tweets are REALLY off-color and not even funny

Reply

Thread

Link

yeah, why she'd think that is anywhere near appropriate

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I think she's trying to play it off as a joke but going OTT.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Laura Dern was flawless as Renata

Reply

Thread

Link

She was just amazing

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

WHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AA DIDN'T SEE THE ONE ABOUT LOOTING!! JFC!!!!!

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Looks like Jews no longer rule the writers room #diversity #Emmys2017  Jackie Hoffman (@JackieHoffman16) September 18, 2017







omg her twitter is a mess! omg her twitter is a mess!

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

I honestly don't know if she is joking

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Wtf is wrong with this puta

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

OH MY GOD WHAT THE FUCK EVEN

It's OK to be salty but GIRL

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

well, this took a turn

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Calm yourself, woman. It's not an Oscar.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

what the fuck?!! all this for a fucking emmy?????

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link
They are so fucking cute together! I love them so much.

Reply

Thread

Link





Gotta support a gals craving regardless of what it is. Or.. be in doghouse. I don't like the doghouse.  Jeffrey Dean Morgan (@JDMorgan) August 10, 2017





And they're adorable! So happy for them. OH MY GOD. Wasn't expecting this at all but in hindsight, this Tweet should have been a clueAnd they're adorable! So happy for them.

Reply

Thread

Link

hilarie has always been so gorgeous

Reply

Thread

Link

they're so qt. Congrats to them!



(also she looks so much better pregnant than I could ever imagine looking. like what kind of genetics lottery)

Reply

Thread

Link

I will never be over the fact she was a college student who randomly got picked off the street to host TRL and now this is her life.



Fanfic realness.

Reply

Thread

Link

I actually think about this a lot

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

talk about right-place-right-time

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Well, being a tall thin blonde definitely had something to do with her being picked.



Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i had no idea she was picked off the street! i remember mark schwahn saying he specifically wanted her for the role of peyton tho after he saw her on TRL.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

None of us can be anywhere to that coolness level lol aww. Bless ha tho <3

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Whenever she pops up on tv, I tell my husband that story like he hasn't heard it before.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I remember the TRL episode and everything. I cannot believe her luck.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I always think about this

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

pretty sure Rosario Dawson was discovered literally on the street, too. just hanging out and she got put in Kids

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

i always confuse him with javier bardem

Reply

Thread

Link

YAY they're adorable together!

Reply

Thread

Link

people always leave

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

but sometimes....









... they come back

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

they're so cute together and i'm so glad she's on twitter now! congrats to them. (also i feel like she popped really quickly? or maybe its just the dress and they've been keeping it under wraps for a while)

Reply

Thread

Link

Love Love Love Her!

Reply

Thread

Link

Yay they're one of my favorite couples and Gus is adorable. I love that when they're not working, they just live on a farm in upstate NY.

Reply

Thread

Link

They have one in Montana as well I think, and my parents live there but somehow every time I go visit them, do I see him? No. I saw Emilio Estevez when I was a kid though. I would still rather see JDM

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

They're cute together but so random. I forgot how they even met.

Reply

Thread

Link

Jensen and Danneel Ackles introduced them - I think it might have been a blind date but I'm not 100% sure on that part.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

JDM is so fucking hot when he has his facial hair.

Reply

Thread

Link

he is so fine. It looks like he put on some weight, which is good. He was looking skinny for a while.

Reply

Thread

Link

i think this is part of why i don't find negan that scary. i feel like he should look stronger.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Yeah he was super skinny as Negan, but iirc it was for a show where he played a guy with tuberculosis so he had to lose 40lbs

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link




lol bless Jason

Reply

Thread

Link

YEEEESSSS 

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Lmao

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

What is this American patriot up to these days, I miss his show

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I just saw him perform last month and he was hilarious and wonderful.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

ikr that was a drag and a half

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

omg! yaaasssss

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

His twitter made me love him, he's a brilliant guy.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link





craigyferg would NEVER craigyferg would NEVER

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Omg, where is this gif from?

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

I am guessing Awake, a police procedural tv show, since he's showing he's not wearing a wire in the gif

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

It's from this show Awake where he's a detective living two realities at once and he isn't sure which is real. In one his wife is dead, and in the other his son is dead. He's hotttt but it only had one season.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Right click + save.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Fuck me, Papi!

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

zaddy malfoy



Edited at 2017-09-18 11:09 pm (UTC)

Reply

Thread

Link

a+ jason issacs

Reply

Thread

Link

My questionable childhood crush on Lucius Malfoy has reawakened.

Reply

Thread

Link

I was a child, sis. I had a crush on Draco at first so it was an internal and complicated conflict.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

wow how did I forget this was him. I'm getting old.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

not questionable. SO HOT.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

For me, it was Captain Hook. He was ridiculously hot in that movie

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

Glad I wasn't the only one lol I used to watch his CoS scenes a million times on REPEAT. And the fic. D: HP fandom screwed my little mind up I was like 13

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Absolutely nothing questionable about lusting after Luscious Malfoy.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link





as has mine on Mr Darling and Captain Hook

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Ok, daddy Malfoy did that.

Reply

Thread

Link

Clearly no one was listening/the time capsule was not set up.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

God I love him

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Speaking of that.... someone noticed Anthony Scaramucci went on a twitter spree over the last few days of adding a lot of former Big Brother houseguests and Big Brother related people. The theory is, he could be trying to get on this winter's Celebrity Big Brother.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

IIIIIIIIII feel like a hypocrite for saying that but I want to see that.



And I really doubt he would come out of that show looking good.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Scaramucci would make evil Dr. Will look like a saint

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link





mooch ado about nothing pic.twitter.com/ufwrAGNYLA  dr. philz (@RyanPhillippe) September 15, 2017





sidenote scaramucci was hanging out with ryan phillippe a couple of days ago

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

omg Jason DESTROY HIM

Reply

Thread

Link

lmao irl @ jason

Reply

Thread

Link

Finally some acknowledgement of King Ron! I love him <3

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

Jason Isaacs needs to be my husband.

Reply

Thread

Link

hellboy and lucius malfoy, who knew lol

Reply

Thread

Link

god if i couldn't love these two men any more tbh



i am honestly baffled he got to just fucking hang out at the bar after the emmys after all the shit he's pulled

Reply

Thread

Link

Like, they just let Spicer into the netflix after party?



Hulu deserved to beat them to best show at the emmys

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

the fact that he could so boldly attend these functions and not feel a bit of remorse for his actions proves how UNREAL and NOT OK the whole thing is

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

JASON ISAACS, DON'T HURT 'EM GODDAMN



Him and Toby Stephens are about the only white men left on the planet with some goddamn sense

Reply

Thread

Link

Toby's tweet about Ringo had me laughing out loud at work and I couldn't explain why because my coworkers don't know who he is. Fucking love him.

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link

His Twitter is delightful, I live for the utter disdain he has for Tr*mp and his ilk lol

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

learning that he was dame maggie smith's son made him even more awesome. idk how i never noticed.

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

And they're both fine, it's like, what kind of heaven

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

y e s



god i love Toby's twitter so much. i thank Black Sails every day for showing me the light that comes in the form of him

Reply

Parent

Thread



Link





toby's twitter is so fucking cathartic, his ringo tweet cracked me the fuck up.



here, have some gifs for good measure. i call this cocktail "five flavours of flint".









you guys don't know how it warms my heart to read this thread <3 i've been letting my brand deteriorate, i need to find some excuse to post sth black sails-related again.toby's twitter is so fucking cathartic, his ringo tweet cracked me the fuck up.here, have some gifs for good measure. i call this cocktail "five flavours of flint".

Reply

Parent

Thread

Expand

Link

anyone on ontd who has ever referred to spicer as "spicey" is complicit in normalizing him

Reply

Thread

Link
December NTSB Meeting to Determine Why El Faro Sank

The U.S.-flagged cargo ship sank in October 2015 during Hurricane Joaquin, with the loss of all 33 crew members on board.

The National Transportation Safety Board plans a Dec. 12, 2017, meeting in Washington, D.C., to determine the probable cause of the October 2015 sinking of the cargo ship El Faro in the Atlantic Ocean. The 790-foot, U.S.-flagged ship left Jacksonville on Sept. 29 en route to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and sank about 34 hours later near the eye of Hurricane Joaquin. All 33 crew members aboard the ship died --28 U.S. crew members and five Polish workers.

NTSB launched its investigation as soon as the sinking was confirmed and, with assistance from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, the wreckage and debris field was located Oct. 31, 2015, at a depth of more than 15,000 feet. The board was unable to recover the voyage data recorder that time or in a second attempt but did recover it during a third mission in August 2016 that was supported by the U.S. Navy.

Along with determining the probable cause of the sinking and factors that may have contributed to the accident, the board is expected to vote on recommendations to address safety issues uncovered during the investigation. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time; it is open to the public and media and will be webcast live at http://ntsb.capitolconnection.org/.
London's Fire Chief Calls for Sprinkler Mandate

"Now is the time to remind Government of life-saving recommendations we have been making for years," London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton said. "We are calling for residential tower blocks to be retrofitted with sprinklers, and they should be mandatory in all new school builds and major refurbishments."

London's fire chief on Sept. 13, as the government's Inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire commenced, called for action on fire sprinklers in residential high-rise buildings and schools. At least 80 people died in the June 14, 2017, fire at the residential tower in west London; the inquiry will report its findings directly to Prime Minister Theresa May.

The Inquiry is being chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, a highly experienced former judge of the Court of Appeal, who in his opening statement called the fatal fire "a tragedy unprecedented in modern times" and also paid tribute to firefighters and other emergency responders who tried to rescue residents from the flames. "We are acutely aware, not only that so many people died or were injured in the fire, but that many of those who survived have been severely affected by their experiences," he said. "We are also conscious that many have lost everything and even now are dependent on others for many of their daily needs. The Inquiry cannot undo any of that, but it can and will provide answers to the pressing questions of how a disaster of this kind could occur in 21st century London and thereby, I hope, provide a small measure of solace. It is also right to recall that a disaster of this magnitude provided an unprecedented challenge to the emergency services, in particular the London Fire Brigade. There are many aspects of the response to the fire that the Inquiry will wish to examine, but it is right that I should pay tribute to the members of the Fire and Rescue Service, many of whom risked their own lives in an attempt to save others."

"The tragic fire at Grenfell has thrown fire safety into the spotlight and, while we are not pre-empting the findings of the Inquiry, now is the time to remind Government of life-saving recommendations we have been making for years," London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton said. "We are calling for residential tower blocks to be retrofitted with sprinklers, and they should be mandatory in all new school builds and major refurbishments. Sprinklers are the only fire safety system that detects a fire, suppresses a fire, and raises the alarm. They save lives and protect property, and they are especially important where there are vulnerable residents who would find it difficult to escape, like those with mobility problems.
Its National Cheeseburger Day and SafeHouse, 779 N. Front St., has issued two special missions in alignment with the goal of ensuring all Milwaukee area agents are well fed during the month of September.

Mission #1: Operation Burger Master

The first deliciously dangerous mission is simple: visit the SafeHouse to try out four of the restaurants top-ranked burgers during the month of September. Log all four burgers and you will win one free burger (for redemption in October) along with a chance to be rewarded with a free one-night stay at Milwaukees historic Pfister Hotel.

Featured burgers include:

The Provacateur : an Angus burger topped with spreadable brie and bacon jam.

: an Angus burger topped with spreadable brie and bacon jam. Spy Burger : a hand-pattied burger smashed on a flat top, seasoned to perfection and served on a freshly baked brioche bun. Order it straight up or with one of three covers for $2: blue cheese and cajun seasoning; sauteed mushrooms and onions with Swiss cheese; bacon, cheddar, and BBQ sauce; or sauteed onions and peppers, provolone cheese.

: a hand-pattied burger smashed on a flat top, seasoned to perfection and served on a freshly baked brioche bun. Order it straight up or with one of three covers for $2: blue cheese and cajun seasoning; sauteed mushrooms and onions with Swiss cheese; bacon, cheddar, and BBQ sauce; or sauteed onions and peppers, provolone cheese. Double Agent : two all-beef patties, American cheese, sauteed red onions and secret burger sauce on marble rye.

: two all-beef patties, American cheese, sauteed red onions and secret burger sauce on marble rye. M.O.A.B. Burger: a hand-pattied beef burger with American cheese, bacon, and an over easy egg, topped with secret sauce on a brioche bun.

The Smersh Burger (vegetarian) is also eligible for the mission; any vegetarian agent who logs four Smershs in September will be rewarded.

Mission #2: Feed your family

The second mission is built for families. Every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., families of four agents can enjoy a meal together for just $50. The mission includes:

Choice of appetizer: cheese curds, Stasi twists or nachos.

Choice of sandwich: burger, chicken breast sandwich, Smersh burger, or kids meal (one per person).

Non-alcoholic beverages, such as soft drinks, lemonade or iced tea (bottled root beer not included).

Additional meals for additional guests or family members are available at full price.

Spies clued into the SafeHouse social media channels on Facebook, Twitter @SafeHouseMKE, Instagram @safehousemke and SnapChat throughout the month of September will receive clandestine (and exclusive) intel about these dangerously delicious missions.

This message will self destruct.
Thermoelectric materials are considered a key resource for the future - able to produce electricity from sources of heat that would otherwise go to waste, from power plants, vehicle tailpipes and elsewhere, without generating additional greenhouse gases. Although a number of materials with thermoelectric properties have been discovered, most produce too little power for practical applications.

A team of researchers - from universities across the United States and China, as well as Oak Ridge National Laboratory - is reporting a new mechanism to boost performance through higher carrier mobility, increasing how quickly charge-carrying electrons can move across the material. The work, reported this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, focused on a recently discovered n-type magnesium-antimony material with a relatively high thermoelectric figure of merit, but lead author Zhifeng Ren said the concept could also apply to other materials.

"When you improve mobility, you improve electron transport and overall performance," said Ren, M.D. Anderson Chair professor of physics at the University of Houston and principal investigator at the Texas Center for Superconductivity at UH.

Thermoelectric materials produce electricity by exploiting the flow of heat current from a warmer area to a cooler area, and their efficiency is calculated as the measure of how well the material converts heat into power. However, because waste heat is both an abundant and free source of fuel, the conversion rate is less important than the total amount of power that can be produced, Ren said. That has prompted researchers to look for ways to improve the power factor of thermoelectric materials.

Paul Ching-Wu Chu, TLL Temple Chair of Science, founding director and chief scientist of the Texas Center for Superconductivity, noted that Ren previously had demonstrated the importance of a material's power factor in determining how well it will work in a thermoelectric device. Chu is a co-author for this most recent work, which he said "demonstrates in the n-type magnesium-antimony-based materials that the power factor can indeed be enhanced by properly tuning the carrier scattering in the material."

"That provides a new avenue to more powerful thermoelectric devices," he added.

Thermoelectric semiconductors come in two variations, n-type, created by replacing an element resulting in a "free" electron to carry the charge, and p-type, in which the replacing element has one fewer electron than the element which it replaced, leaving a "hole" that facilitates movement of energy as the electrons move across the material to fill the vacant spot.

The work reported in PNAS addresses the need for a more powerful n-type magnesium-antimony compound, expanding its potential as a thermoelectric material that can be paired with an effective p-type magnesium-antimony material, which had been previously reported.

The material's power factor can be boosted by increasing carrier mobility, the researchers said. "Here we report a substantial enhancement in carrier mobility by tuning the carrier scattering mechanism in n-type Mg3Sb2-based materials," they wrote. "... Our results clearly demonstrate that the strategy of tuning the carrier scattering mechanism is quite effective for improving the mobility and should also be applicable to other material systems."

The researchers replaced a small fraction of magnesium in the compound with a variety of transition-metal elements, including iron, cobalt, hafnium and tantalum, to determine how best to boost carrier mobility and, through that, the material's power factor.

"Our work," the researchers conclude, "demonstrates that the carrier scattering mechanism could play a vital role in the thermoelectric properties of the material, and the concept of tuning the carrier scattering mechanism should be widely applicable to a variety of material systems."

More information: Jun Mao el al., "Manipulation of ionized impurity scattering for achieving high thermoelectric performance in n-type Mg3Sb2-based materials," PNAS (2017). www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1711725114 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
An inside view of the larger Ilumetsa Crater. Credit: A. Losiak

Studies of craters in the Baltics (Estonia) are giving insights into the many impacts that have peppered the Earth over its long history. In southeastern Estonia, scientists have dated charcoal from trees destroyed in an impact to prove a common origin for two small craters, named Illumetsa. A third submarine crater located on the seabed in the Gulf of Finland has been measured and dated with with precision. Results will be presented by two teams of researchers at the European Planetary Science Congress (EPSC) 2017 in Riga, Latvia, on Monday, 18th September 2017.

Illumetsa are a pair of small craters in Polva County, Estonia, that have recently been studied by a team led by Dr Anna Losiak, a young researcher at the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw. The two craters are known locally as "Hell's Grave" and "The Devil's Grave", the biggest of the two being up to 80 metres in diameter at its widest point, and 12.5 metres deep. The study defined precisely the age of the two structures using a new technique.

Losiak explains: "During the impact, small pieces of charcoaled tree fragments were buried in the material expelled from the crater, called the ejecta blanket. These small pieces were found about 10 metres from the rim, at a depth of around 60 centimetres. We have established their age by carbon-14 dating. We found that both craters were formed between 7,170 and 7,000 years ago. A similar method had been used recently to date other craters in the region.

The fact that the two Illumetsa craters are the same age strongly supports the theory that they were formed in a meteorite impact. Losiak says: "Until now, the two craters had not been firmly proven to be of extraterrestrial origin: neither remnants of the projectile nor other identification criteria had been found up to this point. The lack of signs of high temperature and pressure is not surprising because such small craters are formed by relatively low energy impacts. The lack of pieces of meteorite fragments is more unusual, but not impossible. Most small impact craters are produced by iron meteorites and you usually can find broken pieces lying around with the aid of a metal detector. Other kinds of meteorites, such as stony ones, produce impact craters only in very rare cases as they usually blow up in atmosphere  like the recent Chelabinsk meteor. However, there are exceptions and Illumetsa could have been formed by stony meteorites, not leaving any trace of the meteorite after thousands of years of weathering."

A cross-section through the ejecta blanket of the larger Ilumetsa crater, along with close-ups of the small pieces of charcoal used to date this structure. Credit: A. Losiak

Further results were presented at EPSC about a submarine impact structure, called the Neugrund crater. The study was led by Dr Sten Suuroja, a researcher at the Geological Survey of Estonia. Neugrund is located on the bottom of the sea at the entrance to the Gulf of Finland, to the east of the Estonian island, Osmussaar. The crater is also called the "Tomb of Odin" because Osmussaar's name is derived from the Swedish, "Odensholm", which means the Island of Odin (a god in Germanic and Norse mythology). Distinctive structures like the central plateau and ring walls are at depths of just 230 metres, so are easily accessible for scuba divers.

The 20-kilometre diameter crater was discovered in 1995 through a co-operation between Estonian and Swedish geologists. The origin and development of its structural elements have been studied in numerous marine expeditions, but this new study reveals a fuller story.

Suuroja says: "We found that the Neugrund structure, was formed in an asteroid impact during the early Cambrian period some 535 million years ago. The body was about a kilometre in diameter and hit the sea where the depth was about 100 metres. After the impact, the crater was buried under sediments and remained covered until the Ice Age. As a result, it is probably the best preserved example of an undersea crater we have."

The seabed relief of the Neugrund crater area. Credit: Sten Suuroja

Glaciation dispersed impacted rocks, called Neugrund-breccia, from newly uncovered crater rims southwards to the Estonian mainland and archipelago, up to a distance of 170 kilometres.

"There are a total of 190 structures identified around the globe as meteorite craters. Estonia could claim to be the world's 'Capital of craters', being the country with the highest number per square kilometres. This record doesn't depend on the chances of being hit: every country has roughly the same probability of being impacted by an asteroid coming from space. But regions with older rocks, that have not experienced later intensive geological activity, such as mountain formation, have a higher chance of accumulating impacts with time. Many of the craters that can be found in the Baltic region are also related to local stories and legends. Some are sightseeing venues and have become tourist attractions in recent years," says Suuroja.

The seabed relief of the Neugrund crater area, showing the locatin of Osmussaar Island. Credit: Sten Suuroja

Map showing location of Estonian meteorite craters. Credit: Sten Suuroja

Provided by Europlanet Media Centre
Cellulose nanofibrils have properties that can improve the characteristics of bio-based 3-D-printing pastes. VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is developing a 3-D wound care product for monitoring wound condition in hospital care. However, the first commercial nanocellulose applications will be seen in indoor decoration elements, textiles and the production of mock-ups.

3-D printing has proven to be an efficient manufacturing method for complex, customised and light structures. In addition to thermoplastics, 3-D printing materials include metals, ceramics and foodstuffs. The range of biomaterials in 3-D paste printing is still fairly limited, since pastes pose unique challenges: their structure must not collapse during printing and the objects manufactured must remain sufficiently strong, rigid or flexible after drying. In 3-D biomaterial filaments, however, commercial products already exist.

Cellulose nanofibrils offer an opportunity for developing durable, bio-based commercial 3-D-printing materials. They can offer an alternative to the currently used chemicals, such as resins, synthetic thickeners, strengtheners and plastics, the use of which might generate harmful emissions and even allergising compounds.

3-D technology in wound care

Nanocellulose is an attractive option for medical applications, for example as a carrier of drug molecules. VTT is currently developing a solution where a protein attached to a 3-D-printed adhesive bandage can help to promote the growth of skin cells around a wound. The purpose is to have the healed wound area remain flexible instead of it developing stiff scar tissue. The development is done in collaboration with the University of Tampere and funded by The Academy of Finland under the BioDisp3D programme. The same materials development process can also be used in the cosmetics industry or in the manufacture of artificial bone, for example.

"By using nanocellulose, we have succeeded in creating 3-D structures that absorb liquids three times more efficiently than the compared alginate fibre dressings commonly used in wound care," says Senior Scientist Panu Lahtinen from VTT.

VTT's wound care prototype combines nanocellulose, a protein used in wound care, and printed electronics measuring wound healing into a single product. The measurement electrodes were printed with silver ink onto a film made of polyurethane-nanocellulose, with the electrodes providing connection points for the wireless FlexNode reader developed at VTT. The electrodes are protected by another laminated layer of the film. On top of this lamination lies a 3-D-printed wound care gel containing nanocellulose, alginate and glycerol as the active ingredients. The FlexNode reader transmits temperature or bioimpedance data from the wound wirelessly to a computer used by the health care team. The reader can be connected to the wound and attached to the patient with gauze.

Nanocellulose has not yet been approved for medical use, which means that it will take several years before this application is used in hospitals.

Decorative elements

VTT is also developing bio-based printing materials for modifying textiles, mock-ups, indoor decoration elements and therapy applications in wound care under the DWoc and NoMA projects funded by Tekes - the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation. By selecting appropriate combinations of materials, it is possible to print both flexible and rigid structures, depending on the need. Product properties can also be customised by other means.

Nanocellulose increases the opportunities for creating new surface patters in decorative elements. The development still requires light and moisture tests in various applications. Printing materials can also be used for 3-D-printing customised moulds.

Cellulose nanofibrils

Manufactured for example from cellulose or the side streams of agricultural or food production, Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) are suitable for 3-D printing pastes thanks to their mechanical strength, effects on viscosity and biodegradability. In particular, CNFs can be used for improving the rigidity of 3-D-structures. The way the fibrils are cross-linked affects the properties of the structure: moisture tolerance, rigidity and flexibility.

Due to the excellent water absorption capacity of CNFs, printing pastes can be made viscous enough for the 3-D printing process. A 3-D printing paste can contain up to 50 percent of water without the paste running during printing.

VTT has used CNFs to develop flexible, rigid and porous structures. Manufacturing a flexible structure out of bio-based materials is challenging, since the object tends to harden and become more rigid as it dries.

More information: Jenni Leppiniemi et al. 3D-Printable Bioactivated NanocelluloseAlginate Hydrogels, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2017). DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b02756 Presentation: Lahtinen&al., Multicomponent printing pastes for 3D printing bio-based hydrogels, Biofor 2017, Montreal 15 February 2017. Presentation: Tenhunen et al., 3D-printing of cellulosic materials  properties and suitability on cellulosic fabrics, 253rd ACS national meeting, San Francisco 2-6 April 2017. Journal information: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
A dangerous pathogen, which caused devastating losses in the aquaculture industry in the United States, has been detected in wild Australian catfish for the first time.

Murdoch University researchers from the Centre for Fish and Fisheries Research who made the discovery, say the bacterium causes the potentially fatal disease enteric septicaemia in catfish.

The bacterium, known as Edwardsiella ictaluri, is considered one of the most significant pathogens of farmed catfish in the United States and has also caused mortalities in farmed and wild fishes in many other parts of the world.

It has previously been detected in imported fish and aquarium facilities in Australia but wild species had not been surveyed for the disease until the Murdoch study.

The researchers say more investigation is required to determine the susceptibility and tolerance of native fish species to the bacterium. They also want to clarify whether E ictaluri is a recently introduced or a native strain.

Lead researcher Associate Professor Alan Lymbery said if the pathogen affects Australian fish species in a similar way to cultured catfish in the USA, the delicate freshwater biodiversity of Australia's rivers could be impacted.

"The presence of E. ictaluri in wild Australian fishes may also have economic consequences," he added.

"The ornamental fish industry in Australia has been valued at $350 million, with up to 15 million fishes imported and 700,000 exported per year. If Australia can no longer claim pathogen-free status, this trade may be affected. Aquaculture, currently Australia's one of fastest growing primary industries, may also be impacted.

"Although catfish species are particularly susceptible to the disease, E. ictaluri has affected an increasing number of non-catfish species, including salmonids and barramundi, and thus may represent a threat to cultured fishes as well as Australia's unique freshwater fish species."

The research team discovered the pathogen in eight of 20 wild catfishes (Tandanus tropicanus) caught from the Tully River catchment in far north Queensland.

Catfish caught in 14 other locations across northern Australia were not found to carry E. ictaluri, but Professor Lymbery said the presence of the pathogen could not be ruled out from other rivers because sample sizes were small.

Infection with E. ictaluri results in acute, often fatal septicaemic disease or a chronic infection. Those that survive infection may become carriers for up for 200 days, serving as a reservoir of infection.

Affected fish often swim in tight circles, chasing their tails or hang in the water with their head up and tail down.

Professor Lymbery said more sampling was required to determine the geographic range of E.ictaluri in Australia, and to inform management actions.

The research was published in the Journal of Fish Diseases.

More information: E Kelly et al. First detection of Edwardsiella ictaluri (Proteobacteria: Enterobacteriaceae) in wild Australian catfish, Journal of Fish Diseases (2017). DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12696
Sampling another dust devil during field campaign Morocco 2012. Credit: Jan Raack/Dennis Reiss

Swirling columns of sand and dust, known as dust devils, are a feature of desert areas on Mars and on Earth. Now, a study of terrestrial dust devils has shown that around two thirds of the fine particles lifted by these vortices can remain suspended in the atmosphere and be transported around the globe. The findings have implications for the climate and weather of both planets and, potentially, human health here on Earth. Results will be presented by Dr Jan Raack of the Open University at the European Planetary Science Congress (EPSC) 2017 in Riga, Latvia on Monday, 18th September 2017.

The study by Raack and an international team of collaborators gives important insights into the contribution of dust devils to mineral aerosols in planetary atmospheres. About half of the dust lifted into the martian atmosphere each year is thought to come from dust devils. However, to date, the structure of these vortices has not been well understood. As terrestrial dust devils act very similarly to those on Mars, Raack and colleagues have carried out multiple field campaigns over the past five years to study dust devils in three different deserts on Earth, in China, Morocco and the USA. The researchers took samples of grains lifted by dust devils at different heights, studied tracks left by dust devils on the surface and measured physical and meteorological properties of dust devils.

Raack explains: "The method for sampling is simple  although not actually that pleasant to carry out as it involves getting sandblasted. Essentially, we cover a 5-metre aluminium pipe with double sided sticky tape and run into an active dust devil. We hold the boom upright in the path of a dust devil and wait until the dust devil passes over the boom. Numerous grains are collected on the sticky tape, which are preserved on-site by pressing sections of the tape from different heights onto glass slides."

Very distinct dust devil in some distance during field campaign Morocco 2016. Credit: Jan Raack/Dennis Reiss

Back in the lab, the glass slides are analysed under an optical microscope and all grains measured and counted to gain detailed relative grain size distributions of the sampled dust devils. The results presented at EPSC 2017 focus on samples taken during field campaigns in the south and southwest of Morocco, funded by Europlanet and supported by the Ibn Battuta Centre in Marrakesh.

"We found that the dust devils we measured have a very similar structure, despite different strengths and dimensions. The size distribution of particles within the dust devils seems to correspond to the distribution of grain sizes in the surface they passed over. We have been able to confirm the presence of a sand-skirt  the bottom part of the dust devil with high concentration of larger sand grains  and most particles were only lifted within the first metre. However, the decrease in grain diameter with height is nearly exponential," says Raack.

In the terrestrial dust devils, the team found that around 60-70% of all the fine dust particles (with diameters up to three hundredths of a millimetre) appear to stay in suspension. These small mineral aerosols can be transported over long distances on Earth and have an influence on the climate and weather. They can also reach populated areas, affecting air quality and human health. On arid Mars, where most of the surface is desert-like and the dust content is much higher, the impact is even larger.

Further analysis of the datasets will include meteorological measurements of the dust devils that will be used to interpret data obtained by landers and rovers on Mars, including the Curiosity rover and the upcoming ExoMars and InSight lander missions.

Animation of Dr Jan Raack running to a dust devil and successful sampling of it during field campaign Morocco 2016. Samples will be analysed soon. Credit: Jan Raack/Dennis Reiss

Animation of sampling a very small and weak dust devil during field campaign Morocco 2016. Samples will be analysed soon. Credit: Jan Raack/Dennis Reiss

More information: Jan Raack et al. In Situ Sampling of Relative Dust Devil Particle Loads and Their Vertical Grain Size Distributions, Astrobiology (2017). DOI: 10.1089/ast.2016.1544 Journal information: Astrobiology

Provided by Europlanet Media Centre
Grizzly trophy-hunting is at the heart of a ferocious debate in North America. Credit: Shutterstock

There's no shortage of controversy surrounding the British Columbia government's decision to stop the grizzly bear trophy hunt.

The province announced in late August that it's moving towards permanently closing grizzly trophy hunting by the end of November, with immediate closure in the Great Bear Rainforest. Hunting grizzlies for their meat is still permitted.

Supporters of trophy hunting view the ban as a political decision that ignores scientific information, diminishes economic opportunities and tarnishes hunters' reputations.

Opponents applaud the ban, arguing the hunt is outdated, lacks concrete evidence to support its existence and is barbaric.

Certainly the ban could signal changes for future grizzly bear management across other jurisdictions.

A North American debate

Outfitters in the Yukon have already raised concerns, calling for more scientific studies to inform bear management decisions.

Albertamay also face increased scrutiny and pressure to reconsider a grizzly hunt in light of research on bear populations and public tolerance for conflict.

There's also controversy about hunting grizzlies in the United States, with Yellowstone's recent decision to remove the bears from their endangered status list and the move to stop protecting bears on Alaskan reserves.

So what to make of these arguments for and against trophy hunting grizzlies? Is trophy hunting a legitimate management tool? And is it even ethical to control the grizzly population that way?

Hunters say bear population kept under control

Supporters say trophy hunting is an effective population management tool, and can help mitigate human-bear conflicts. In B.C., trophy hunters say grizzly bears are the most closely managed and conservatively hunted species in the province.

Prior to the ban, the former B.C. government released a 2016 scientific review on grizzly bear hunting and said adequate safeguards were in place to ensure long-term stability of bear populations. However, habitat loss was instead noted as a significant challenge, and improvements in monitoring bears were required.

The review also noted B.C. produced more DNA-based population estimates for grizzlies than any other jurisdiction. Consequently, hunters argue bear management must be informed by science rather than opinion or emotions.

Even the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has suggested "in certain limited and rigorously controlled cases  scientific evidence has shown that trophy hunting can be an effective conservation tool."

Hunting male bears

This view is supported in other literature, with some researchers adding a regulated bear hunt may increase public acceptance of living alongside grizzly bears. However, this could also be perceived as giving people the power to manage problem bears as they deem fit not necessarily a palatable concept for everyone.

Biologists also point out that trophy hunters generally target male bears because they're bigger, and that may not pose the greatest threat to the grizzly population as it would if female bears were the primary focus.

Of 73 licences allocated in 2005 for grizzly bear hunting in Alberta, only 10 bears were hunted and killed.Instead, poaching, death after being mistaken for the more common black bears and roadway collisions may pose greater risk.

In B.C., however, opponents contend that hunting kills an average of 297 bears annually.

Opponents also argue that the lack of monitoring hunting raises serious questions about whether it's an effective way to control the grizzly population or reduce bear-human conflict.

Is it a management tool?

A 2015 study on brown bears suggests hunting bears has negative indirect effects on the bear population, particularly cub mortality.

Additionally, the same authors found that because hunting is not evenly distributed across bear habitats, social structure can be destabilized, and in turn this can impact the population.

As for conflict reduction, a 2016 study found that bear hunting did not reduce the frequency of bear/human confrontations. Human behaviour and poor garbage management were likely conflict culprits.

A 2009 study, meantime, suggested the complex life histories, behaviours and social systems of animals like grizzlies mean any predictions that scientists make about trophy hunting as a management tool are unreliable.

Bear-viewing more lucrative?

Economic opportunities are also commonly raised in the grizzly hunt debate.

Guide outfitters in B.C. say hunting has brought in more than $350 million annually (for bears and other wildlife) from national and international hunters. Some say the ban will result in lost revenue, affecting not just personal livelihoods but entire communities.

Additionally, outfitters caution bear-viewing could result in habituation, meaning bears become overly comfortable with human presence and therefore pose safety risks.

Opponents, however, argue trophy hunting is a corrupt practice globally, where revenues are unfairly or disproportionately meted out across communities and only benefit a few.

Furthermore, they say a live bear is far more economically valuable than a dead one. The Center for Responsible Travel found more revenue was generated from bear-viewing in the Great Bear Rainforest, and provided more job opportunities.

Swapping bullets for binoculars

Some outfitters suggest the hunting ban wouldn't affect their businesses, because they'd shift to bear-viewing. Some B.C. resorts have already encouraged hunters to trade in their bullets for binoculars as an incentive to never hunt grizzlies again.

Opponents also believe trophy hunting is immoral and wasteful. To some, it's inconceivable to kill an animal for sport.

Many were disappointed in the B.C. trophy hunting decision because they'd hoped for a complete ban on grizzly hunting, particularly since the animals are not commonly eaten like elk or deer. Hunting of animals that are consumed as food is regarded as less offensive.

On the motivations of trophy hunters, studies suggest the "prospect of displaying large and/or dangerous (animals) at least in part underlies the behaviour of many contemporary hunters."

The same authors suggest men who hunt carnivores are signalling they can afford it, which helps them accrue status and attention, particularly from potential mates.

So, what are wildlife managers to do when society remains so deeply divided on trophy hunting? Who gets to decide how grizzly bears should be managed?

This debate is certainly not new to wildlife management, and has become an increasingly contentious topic as biologists, policy makers and the broader public ponders how to govern the animals that share our planet.

What's next?

In B.C., the government has attempted to temper the debate by permitting hunting grizzlies for meat, despite compliance concerns. In the Yukon, there's a call for more studies to help inform decision-making, and our ongoing research, not yet published, has found some in rural Alberta are asking questions about reopening a grizzly hunting season.

Perhaps trophy hunting isn't the greatest threat to North America's grizzly bears. Certainly, habitat loss and population fragmentation, as well as climate change, pose even greater risks.

That's why now, more than ever, we need consolidated action to manage grizzlies not more argument. If we want grizzly bears to remain in our future, we need to set aside our differences and find some common ground.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
A Chinese startups appears to be following in the footsteps of SpaceX as it has lately laid out its own project of reusable space launch system. Link Space, the country's first private rocket company, has recently presented the design of its New Line 1 (Xin Gan Xian 1) launch vehicle, which could compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9 in the future.

Link Space uncovered the design and some basic technical parameters at a recent presentation. The released images show that the first stage of the newly developed launcher could feature a landing system similar to SpaceX's flagship reusable Falcon 9 booster.

"SpaceX is very cool, and Falcon 9 is extremely greatwe take SpaceX as our goal and guide, because there are many advantages for us to learn," Hu Zhenyu, founder and CEO of Link Space Aerospace Technology Inc., told Astrowatch.net.

New Line 1 is a Small Launch Vehicle (SLV) designed for microsatellite and nanosatellite launches. It will be capable of sending up to about 440 lbs. (200 kilograms) into a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) of 155 to 342 miles (250 to 550 kilometers).

New Line 1 will be a 66-foot-tall (20.1-meter), two-stage liquid rocket with a diameter of 5.9 feet (1.8 meters). With a mass of about 33 metric tons at liftoff, the launcher will have a takeoff thrust of about 400 kN. The first stage of the vehicle will consist of four liquid oxygen/kerosene engines with gas generator cycle. Each single booster will have a thrust of 100 kN.

The most important feature of the New Line 1 rocket will obviously be the reusability of its first stage, as with Falcon 9 boosters. This could greatly lower the cost of one single orbital launch.

"The launch price is about 30 million yuan ($4.5 million) for each launch (with a totally new rocket), and this rocket will have an enhanced version with increased takeoff weight. By reusing the first stage of the rocket, the launch price will be reduced to about 15 million yuan ($2.25 million)," Hu revealed.

While the New Line 1 rocket will have only one reusable stage, the company thinks big and aims to develop a second stage that could also be reused after landing. Although it is a long-term goal, Hu hopes that it could be implemented in the successors of the company's first launch vehicle.

"Perhaps the later version, such as New Line 2 or 3, will have such a capacity," Hu said.

Founded in 2014, Link Space is a Beijing-based startup with no government or military background. In July 2016, the company achieved rocket hover flight with a single vector-thrust engine for the first time in China. The firm is currently developing key technology for space industry, including a variable thrust liquid rocket engine, a vertical takeoff/vertical landing (VTVL) rocket flight platform, a flight control algorithm and control system, a hover flight test process, a servo actuator and many others.

Through September 2017, Link Space developed three hover rockets, conducted more than 200 flight tests, and accumulated a lot of experimental data and engineering experience. The company uses a rocket flight test field located in Shandong Province covering 53,800 square feet (5,000 square meters)the biggest commercial rocket test field in China for large-thrust liquid engines and rocket flight tests.

According to Hu, the development of the New Line 1 launch vehicle will consume about 300 million yuan ($45 million) and the maiden flight of the rocket could be conducted as soon as 2020.

"The first orbital flight of New Line 1 is planned in 2020, which is an optimistic estimation, because we know it's hard, and we plan to develop most of the core technology all by ourselves, such as a deep-variable-thrust liquid rocket engine, flight control system, landing systems and so on," Hu noted.

Link Space hopes that the New Line 1 rocket will attract the interest of commercial companies worldwide. The company also believes that the launch vehicle will also carry out some missions for the Chinese government.

So far, SpaceX is the only company to recover a rocket following an orbital launch. A few months ago, Elon Musk, founder and CEO of SpaceX, encouraged other companies to develop their own reusable orbital rockets. Now, Link Space's bold plans show that it could be only a matter of a few years until SpaceX's monopoly in this field is broken up.

"We also believe that a good technical trend should not belong to a single company, and Elon has said that the reusable rocket is certain to be more and more common. In fact, a lot of similar programs are very different in detail. Although it looks similar in appearance, if you want to make it really work, you must do everything from zero to design and manufacture the whole rocket," Hu concluded.

Provided by Astrowatch.net
Trade in albino body parts is big business in certain countries with the 'going rate' around 75,000.

Witchcraft-related beliefs and practices have resulted in serious violations of human rights including beatings, banishment, cutting of body parts, and amputation of limbs, torture and murder.

There are thousands of cases of people accused of witchcraft each year globally, often with fatal consequences, and others are mutilated and killed for witchcraft-related rituals.

Women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities and people with albinism, a genetic disorder which impairs the ability to create pigment in the body, are particularly vulnerable.

In the last decade, 528 attacks on people with albinism have been reported in 28 countries.

Now a team, led by Lancaster University, have enabled the shocking issue, which includes ritual killings, to come under the microscope for the first time at international level.

A UN Witchcraft and Human Rights Expert Workshop will take place at UN headquarters in Geneva on September 21 and 22 with a multi-agency approach.

Dr Charlotte Baker, who has published widely on albinism in Africa, Lancaster University honorary graduate and human rights advocate Gary Foxcroft and Dr Sam Spence, who completed a PhD in Law at Lancaster, have worked with UN Independent Expert on Albinism Ikponwosa Ero to ensure the extent of the atrocity is heard at UN level.

The workshop will address the large-scale human rights issue that has by and large slipped under the radar of governments, NGOs and academics.

Despite the seriousness of these human rights abuses, there is often no robust state-led response.

Often judicial systems do not act to prevent, investigate or prosecute human rights abuses linked to beliefs in witchcraft.

The workshop is ground-breaking as it is the first-ever to discuss witchcraft and human rights in a systematic and in-depth manner at the UN or international level.

It will bring together UN Experts, academics and members of civil society to discuss the violence associated with such beliefs and practices and groups that are particularly vulnerable.

Dr Baker said: "The workshop will mark an important step towards mainstreaming the issue into the UN Human Rights system, whilst providing impetus and practical guidance to the numerous international and regional mechanisms, academics and civil society actors that have been working to raise awareness and understanding of these challenging issues."

Gary Foxcoft said: "This is the first time the UN has properly recognised the scale of the problem and the need to bring together experts from across the world to identify all the challenges and solutions. Our goal is a UN Special Resolution for the UN Human Rights Council to recognise the scale of the problem, provide a clearly articulated outline of the problem and recommendations. We want people to feel inspired and to go back to their countries and know that they are not alone. This is a major step forwards."
Tests will identify genetic alterations that can be used to measure meat quality, characteristics of seedlings and plants, or pesticide resistance of disease-transmitting mosquitoes. Credit: Scheme Lab

Scheme Lab, a biotech startup incubated at the Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Technology (CIETEC), in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is developing genetic tests that can be used anywherein factories, on farms, or even at homewithout the need for analysis by specialized laboratories.

These "point-of-care" tests will identify genetic alterations that can be used to measure meat quality, the characteristics of seedlings and plants, or the resistance of disease-transmitting mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti to pesticides used against them.

"We're at the prototype stage," says biologist John Katz. From the start, Scheme Lab aimed at the development of a new diagnostic device that could rapidly and simply detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), a type of DNA sequence variation that accounts for over 90 percent of genetic variation in humans, Katz explained. SNP detection tests can be used in people, animals and plants to identify diseases, physical traits and even individuals.

In the first phase of the project, Scheme Lab focused on developing a prototype for diagnostic purposes, aimed at supplanting complex devices like PCR thermocyclers, DNA sequencers and microarrays, which only clinical laboratories are capable of maintaining and operating.

Scheme Lab's prototype comprises a simple portable kit that uses saliva to produce a colored result visible to the naked eye for detecting DNA sequences associated with eye color (blue, brown or both). The prototype was optimized, and the main technology plus enhancements were dubbed Simple SNP.

Having tested the technology and its application, the firm sought other markets. "The test platform can be used for any kind of genetic sequencing," says Katz. "We decided to switch focus to the corporate sector and invest in custom tests."

In phase 2 of PIPE, which adopted this new market perspective, Scheme Lab developed two new versions of the prototype, one in collaboration with a leading Brazilian agribusiness firm. "This firm produces plants and seeks varieties with superior physical characteristics, many of which are associated with SNP-type DNA sequences. The test will help identify plants on the client's own production premises," Katz explains.

In phase 3 of PIPE, currently in progress, the firm is developing prototypes to produce a genetic test for use in agriculture and food. "One of our targets is the meat market, and the focus is on livestock breeders or meat packers," Katz says.

"Point-of-care" molecular diagnosis is a new market. "We're looking for partners and we've already talked to about 12 potential clients interested in having custom tests to diagnose genetic traits in agriculture, food, and healthcare, among others," Katz says.

Before settling himself as an entrepreneur in Brazil, where he is stablished since 2004, Katz consulted his network of contacts in the US. "Their view was that every country has its advantages and that Brazil had significant potential in biotech, as well as offering resources to support startups," he adds.

Provided by FAPESP
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

An international team of researchers has found evidence of an ancient meteorite colliding with ground rock on Earth, producing the highest temperature ever recorded on the planet's surface. In their paper published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters, the team describes their findings after studying an impact crater in Canada and how they were able to calculate the temperature for an impact that occurred so many years ago.

Planetary scientists believe that Earth was bombarded on a regular basis during its formative yearsby meteorites and other space rocks. Some of those collisions left behind evidence that is still observable today in the form of craters. One of them is Mistastin Lake crater located in Labrador Canada, which is approximately 28 kilometers across, suggesting that the object that struck the Earth there was large. The researchers dated the collision that caused the crater back to approximately 38 million years ago.

Most craters, the researchers note, do not have much if any evidence of the object that caused themthey vaporize on impact. Likewise, most of the material struck by meteors tends to vaporize, as well. Because of this, it has been difficult to learn more about the nature of the space rocks and the conditions that occurred when they struck. One thing scientists do know, however, is that when collisions occur, a lot of energy is released in the form of heatthe question is how much. In this new effort, the researchers found a way to measure the heat produced when the object struck the ground in Canada.

In studying the crater, the researchers found evidence of zircon, a common mineral, being changed into cubic zirconia. Prior work with both minerals has shown that temperatures of 2370 C are required for that to take place. Thus, the heat generated by the impact had to have reached at least that temperature. The finding represents the hottest temperature ever found to exist naturally on the surface of the Earth. The researchers note that this is the first time zirconia has ever been used to calculate the heat of an impact and also shows that some rocks can get hotter naturally than has been thought.

More information: Nicholas E. Timms et al. Cubic zirconia in >2370 C impact melt records Earth's hottest crust, Earth and Planetary Science Letters (2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.epsl.2017.08.012 Journal information: Earth and Planetary Science Letters

 2017 Phys.org
On Sept. 17, 2017 at 1001 p.m. EDT the GPM core satellite showed that Maria found rain falling at a rate of over 6.44 inches (163.7 mm) per hour in powerful storms northeast of Maria's eye. Intense thunderstorms were found towering to above 9.7 miles (15.7 km). Credit: NASA/JAXA, Hal Pierce

NASA and NOAA satellites have provided data on Maria as it strengthened into a major Hurricane headed toward the Leeward Islands. NASA's Aqua satellite provided an infrared look at Maria that showed cooling cloud top temperatures and NOAA's GOES satellite provided an animation of imagery that showed the storm developing and strengthening. The GPM satellite found "Hot" towering clouds that indicated strengthening was occurring before Maria became a major hurricane.

Warnings and Watches on Sept. 18

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued a Hurricane Warning for Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, and Montserrat, Martinique, St. Lucia, U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Maarten and Anguilla.

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Puerto Rico, Vieques, and Culebra, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, St. Martin and St. Barthelemy, and Anguilla. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Maria's Development

On Saturday, Sept. 16 the National Hurricane Center was watching Potential Tropical Cyclone Fifteen. The depression formed at 2 p.m. EDT that day. Three hours later it strengthened into a tropical storm and was named "Maria." At 5 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 17, Maria strengthened into a hurricane and continued to strengthen.

GPM Finds "Hot Towers" in Maria Before Strengthening

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission (GPM) core observatory satellite had an excellent view of hurricane Maria when it passed almost directly above the hurricane on Sept. 17, 2017 at 1001 p.m. AST/EDT (Sept. 18 0201 UTC). GPM's Microwave Imager (GMI) and Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) showed that Maria had well defined bands of precipitation rotating around the eye of the tropical cyclone. GPM's radar (DPR Ku band) found rain falling at a rate of over 6.44 inches (163.7 mm) per hour in one of these extremely powerful storms northeast of Maria's eye.

This animation of NOAA's GOES East satellite imagery from Sept. 14 at 1:45 p.m. EDT (1745 UTC) to Sept. 18 ending at 7:45 a.m. EDT (1145 UTC). The animation shows Hurricane Jose moving north along the U.S. East coast, the development strengthening of Hurricane Maria and its approach to the Leeward Islands, and Tropical Depression Lee in the Eastern Atlantic. TRT: 00:08 Credit: NASA-NOAA GOES Project

NASA obtained a look at Maria's precipitation structure using data from GPM's Radar (DPR Ku band). Intense thunderstorms were found towering to above 9.7 miles (15.7 km). This kind of chimney cloud, also called a "hot tower" (as it releases a huge quantity of latent heat by condensation). These tall thunderstorms in the eye wall are often a sign that a tropical cyclone is becoming more powerful.

About Hot Towers

A "hot tower" is a tall cumulonimbus cloud near the center of a tropical cyclone, often seen prior to intensification. The cloud tops reach at least to the top of the troposphere, the lowest layer of the atmosphere which is approximately 9 miles/14.5 km high in the tropics. These towers are called "hot" because they rise to such altitude due to the large amount of latent heat. Water vapor releases this latent heat as it condenses into liquid. Those towering thunderstorms have the potential for heavy rain. Energy released by rainfall into the center of a tropical cyclone provides the energy upon which tropical cyclones thrive.

Cloud Top Temperatures Show Strengthening

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder or AIRS instrument aboard NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed Hurricane Maria in infrared light. Infrared light provides scientists with temperature data and that's important when trying to understand how strong storms can be. The higher the cloud tops, the colder and the stronger they are. So infrared light as that gathered by the AIRS instrument can identify the strongest sides of a tropical cyclone.

When NASA's Aqua satellite flew over Maria on Sept. 18 at 1:35 a.m. EDT (0535 UTC) AIRS detected that cloud top temperatures had cooled indicating they were higher into the atmosphere. Cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 81.6 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 63.1 degrees Celsius). Storms with cloud top temperatures that cold have the capability to produce heavy rainfall.

Satellite View of Maria Strengthening Over Time

At NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. the NASA/NOAA GOES Project created an animation of NOAA's GOES East satellite imagery from Sept. 14 at 1:45 p.m. EDT (1745 UTC) to Sept. 18 ending at 7:45 a.m. EDT (1145 UTC). The animation shows Hurricane Jose moving north along the U.S. East coast, the development strengthening of Hurricane Maria and its approach to the Leeward Islands, and Tropical Depression Lee in the Eastern Atlantic.

On Sept. 18 at 1:35 a.m. EDT (0535 UTC) the AIRS instrument aboard NASA's Aqua satellite captured this false-colored infrared image of Hurricane Maria. Some cloud top temperatures in strong storms were as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53 degrees Celsius). Credit:NASA JPL, Ed Olsen Credit: Credits: NASA JPL, Ed Olsen

NHC noted the estimated central pressure inside the 10 nautical mile-wide eye has fallen to 959 millibars. The small eye is also apparent in radar data from Martinique.

Maria's Status on Sept. 18

The NHC said at 11 a.m. AST/EDT (1500 UTC), the center of Hurricane Maria was located

Near 14.7 degrees north latitude and 60.1 degrees west longitude.

Maria was moving toward the west-northwest near 10 mph (17 kph), and this motion with some decrease in forward speed is expected through Tuesday night, Sept. 19. On the forecast track, the center of Maria will move across the Leeward Islands late today and tonight, over the extreme northeastern Caribbean Sea Tuesday and Tuesday night, and approach Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on Wednesday, Sept. 20.

Reports from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate that maximum sustained winds have increased to near 120 mph (195 kph) with higher gusts. Maria is a category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Additional rapid strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours, and Maria is expected to be a dangerous major hurricane as it moves through the Leeward Islands and the northeastern Caribbean Sea.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles (30 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km). The minimum central pressure estimated from the Hurricane Hunter aircraft data is 959 millibars.

NHC expects Maria's eye to move through the Leeward Islands during the afternoon or evening today, Sept. 18.
Earth's critical zone: from the base of bedrock to the top of the tree canopy. Credit: NSF

Extreme floods and droughts receive a lot of attention. But what happens when precipitationor lack thereofoccurs in a more measured way?

Researchers have analyzed more than five decades of data from across North America to find that changes in non-extreme precipitation are more significant than previously realized. And the changes are greater than those that have occurred with extreme precipitation.

Non-extreme precipitation can have a strong effect on ecosystems, agriculture, infrastructure design and resource management, the scientists say, pointing to a need to examine precipitation in a more nuanced, multifaceted way.

"This study shows that everyday precipitation eventsnot just the extremes that have been the focus of most studiesare changing," said University of Illinois scientist Praveen Kumar, principal investigator of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Intensively Managed Landscapes Critical Zone Observatory (CZO), one of nine such NSF CZOs.

"It's not just the amount of rainfall that's important," said Kumar, "it's the duration of that rainfall and the amount of time between rainfall and dry periods."

The study, published today in Nature Scientific Reports, is the most comprehensive of its type, said co-author Susana Roque-Malo, also of the University of Illinois.

Low flow in a stream. Non-extreme rainfall is essential for maintaining ecosystem functions. Credit: Praveen Kumar

"We used data from more than 3,000 weather stations," said Roque-Malo. "There are a few other studies that use a similar methodology, but they have focused on smaller sections of the continent or parts of Europe."

The researchers identified several regions where the microclimatelocal climate determined by elevation and ecosystemappears to have a significant effect on precipitation trends.

"This study confirms that there is more to climate than the number and size of extreme events," said Richard Yuretich, CZO program director at NSF, which funded the research through its Division of Earth Sciences. "Shifts in the daily patterns of rainfall, sometimes subtle, also occur. These can be very hard to document, but the existence of long-term monitoring sites provides the information needed to recognize trends and plan for the future."

In areas such as Oregon's Willamette Valley, the researchers observed decreases in the total annual precipitation, the number of days per year with precipitation, and the number of consecutive days with precipitation. The areas immediately surrounding the valley, however, had increases in those measures.

This river ecosystem is maintained by daily rainfall. Credit: Praveen Kumar

"Examples like this indicate that it may not be the best practice to make broad assumptions like 'all wet areas are becoming wetter and all dry areas are becoming drier,'" said Roque-Malo.

The observations have important implications for the resilience of ecosystems and for agriculture and water resource planning, the researchers say.

"Successive generations of ecosystems evolve through adaptation to these kinds of changes," said Kumar. "If the rate of change, however small, exceeds the adaptive capacity, these environments will be susceptible to collapse."

Added Roque-Malo, "Hydroelectric plants, storm water drainage systemsany structure that relies on an assumption of expected precipitationcould be vulnerable as we look toward becoming more climate-resilient."

Although current models may not be able to resolve the small but steady changes observed in this study, the researchers hope their work will inform and provide validation criteria for future models and assessments.

Researchers at NSF's Intensively Managed Landscapes CZO investigate human-environment interactions. Credit: Praveen Kumar

More information: NSF Intensively Managed Landscapes Critical Zone Observatory: criticalzone.org/iml/ Susana Roque-Malo et al. Patterns of change in high frequency precipitation variability over North America, Scientific Reports (2017). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10827-8 Journal information: Scientific Reports
A research team, led by John Graham-Brown at the University of Liverpool, describe three cases in UK dogs with recent history of travel to mainland Europe.

They call for vigilance when examining travelled dogs and warn that other animals - and people - should also be considered at risk of infection when travelling to areas where the parasite is endemic.

Thelazia callipaeda is a parasitic worm capable of infecting a range of mammalian host species including dogs, cats and human beings. The worm is found in a species of fruit fly known to be present in the UK. The researchers believe the introduction of this species is a potential risk.

Adult worms live in the eyes and associated tissues. Infected animals show a variety of symptoms, from mild conjunctivitis to severe corneal ulceration which, if untreated, can lead to blindness.

In July 2016, the authors described the first known case of eyeworm infection in the UK in a dog recently imported from Romania. Today, they confirm their initial diagnosis and report a further two cases in dogs with recent history of travel to Italy and France.

In all three cases, all requirements specified under the UK government's pet travel scheme (PETS) were met before and during travel.

All three dogs received treatment and made a full recovery. But the authors warn that, given the relatively free and regular movement of dogs into and out of the UK from mainland Europe and importation from rescue charities under this scheme, this and other pathogens pose a significant threat to the UK canine population.

These three cases "demonstrate the risk of introducing T callipaeda to the UK through dogs being imported from and travelling to geographical locations where T callipaeda is known to be endemic," write the authors.

"Furthermore, since T callipaeda is zoonotic and capable of infecting several other mammalian species, both people and cats should also be considered at risk of infection when travelling to such areas," they warn.

The researchers also state that wild animals, such as foxes can be infected and could act as a reservoir if introduced.

"Although effective diagnostic tests and treatments are available, more can and should be done to prevent this zoonotic pathogen from becoming endemic in the UK," they conclude.

More information: John Graham-Brown et al. Three cases of imported eyeworm infection in dogs: a new threat for the United Kingdom, Veterinary Record (2017). DOI: 10.1136/vr.104378 Journal information: Veterinary Record
Scientists at The University of Western Australia are using new portable DNA sequencing technology for the first time in East Africa to help farmers fight the devastating impact of crop disease.

Farmers struggling with diseased cassava crops can take immediate action to save their livelihoods based on information about the health of their plants, using the portable, real-time DNA analysis device.

The DNA handheld sequencer, called the MinION, was developed by British company Oxford Nanopore. It is being used to identify which strain of virus is destroying the cassava crops of farmers in Tanzania and Uganda as part of a collaboration of scientists and farmers, known as the Cassava Virus Action Project (CVAP).

Dr Laura Boykin, a senior research fellow at UWA, is one of the principal investigators of the project, with Joseph Ndunguru, Director of the Mikocheni Agricultural Research Institute in Tanzania and Titus Alicai, Research Programme Leader with the National Agricultural Research Organisation in Uganda.

Dr Boykin said because MinION was able to deliver the information in real time, compared to the usual three months, farmers were able to take action much faster.

With 800 million people worldwide dependent on the threatened cassava crop, the team now plans to expand the project, which aims to reduce the risk of community crop failure and help preserve livelihoods.

Cassava, a carbohydrate crop from which tapioca originates, plays a critical role in agriculture in developing countries. It is currently being devastated by several viruses causing two diseases; 'Cassava mosaic disease' (CMD), which led to major famines in the 1920s and 1990s, and 'Cassava brown streak disease' (CBSD), an epidemic of which is rapidly expanding in eastern Africa.

Both diseases, carried by the whitefly, prevent normal growth of cassava plants. This leads to significantly reduced harvests or even complete losses by farmers. The viruses make the plant inedible and unsellable and the crop must be destroyed to stop its spread.

"We have shown that pocket DNA sequencers can benefit rural farming communities who would not normally have access to such technologies as they are usually more expensive and slower," Mr Ndunguru said.

"Even within this pilot project, through rapid and accurate identification of viruses, farmers can now understand which crops to plant, which are resistant to a particular virus species/strain. This is key to attaining durable disease resistance and improved crop productivity. This technology also is easy to use, making it possible without major infrastructure and staffing.

Dr Boykin said the team planned to expand the project within Tanzania and Uganda, and collaborate with other countries that hadn't yet been affected by Cassava whitefly viruses, such as Thailand and Brazil.

"If better strategies are not found to deal with this crop disease then millions of people could be affected  we need to think about economies as well as individual families," she said.

The MinION, which weighs only 100g and can be used in any location where it can be plugged into a laptop or PC, was used to sequence both cassava plants and whiteflies thereby identifying the precise strain of the virus that was present as well as the variety of cassava the farmer was growing.

The cassava disease diagnostics project was co-funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and by the UK's Department for International Development.
A "first-of-its-kind" optimization model developed by engineers at Lehigh's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science is helping Pennsylvania's Department of Corrections (PADOC) streamline the assignment of inmates to the state's 25 correctional institutions.

PADOC officials say the Inmate Assignment Decision Support System (IADSS) has "transformed" the inmate assignment process in Pennsylvania and can do the same for state correctional agencies across the United States. In the long run, they say, the system could shorten prison stays and reduce recidivismthe rate at which released prisoners commit new crimesby giving inmates more timely access to the treatment programs they need to earn parole.

There are currently 46,800 inmates in the state's correctional institutions. PADOC's annual expenditures total approximately $2.5 billion, or about 8 percent of the state's total budget.

IADSS can make hundreds of inmate assignments in a few minutes, a task that requires hours when performed manually by humans. The system is the product of five years of work by graduate students and faculty members in the department of industrial and systems engineering. Its developers say IADSS represents the first application of operations research to the assignment of prison inmates.

PADOC officials have been using IADSS for 10 months to help assign inmates and they plan to switch over to it completely early next year. IADSS was also used to help reassign 2,000 inmates from the State Correctional Institute in Pittsburgh, which was recently closed, to other state prisons.

In a report released Sept. 1, PADOC officials said IADSS has enabled the corrections department to achieve cost savings and improvements in four areas:

Shorter waiting lists for treatment programs. This will reduce the length of time inmates remain in prison past their minimum sentence date.

Fewer prison assaults. This has resulted from an improvement in assigning the right combination of inmates to the right prisons.

Staffing. Fewer staff members will be needed in the PADOC's Office of Population Management to oversee inmate assignments and transfers.

Transportation. More inmates are being assigned to the most appropriate institution the first time, reducing the need later for transfers of inmates to other prisons.

"Based on these four criteria," the report said, "we believe that the IADSS has saved the PADOC, and thus saved Pennsylvania taxpayers, approximately $2.9 million during the first year, which will translate into approximately $19.2 million in savings over the next five years."

Meanwhile, the group that invented IADSS has been named a finalist for the Daniel H. Wagner Prize for Excellence in Operations Research. The international prize is awarded each year by the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS), the premier professional association for analytics and operations research. This year's prize will be awarded Oct. 24 at the annual INFORMS conference in Houston.

"[IADSS] is the first model of its kind in the nation, and addresses an important problem that all large correctional departments face," PADOC Secretary John E. Wetzel wrote in a letter of recommendation to the Wagner Prize selection committee.

"Every year, my department receives approximately 11,000 new inmates who must be assigned to one of our 25 prisons around the state...[IADSS] has completely transformed our processes and is already leading to significant efficiency improvements and savings.

"I know that my peers around the country who direct other state correctional agencies will also benefit tremendously from [this] model."

The group that developed IADSS is led by Tamas Terlaky, the George N. and Soteria Kledaras '87 Endowed Chair Professor in the department of industrial and systems engineering. The group also includes Lou Plebani and George Wilson, professors in the department; Mohammad Shahabsafa, a Ph.D. candidate; Anshul Sharma, a graduate student; Dan Li '13 Ph.D. and Chatainya Gudapati '17 M.S.

The heart of IADSS, says Shahabsafa, who travels every two weeks to Mechanicsburg to confer with PADOC officials, is its optimization module, which can assign hundreds of inmates to correctional institutions in just a few minutes. A graphic user interface allows access to information on inmates in the PADOC database, enables users to review and approve the optimal assignment, and provides several measures to evaluate assignment recommendations.

The optimization module enables IADSS to assign inmatesand to account for a variety of relevant factorssimultaneously, says Shahabsafa. These factors include a prisoner's age, home town, offense, sentencing information, stability level, risk level, minimum and maximum dates of release, and medical and programming needs, as well the capacity and level of resources available at each institution. IADSS also accounts for inmates' functional limitationswhether they are hearing- or vision-impaired or use a wheelchair, etc.

William Nicklow, PADOC director of population management, says inmates were previously assigned to Pennsylvania's correctional institutions in a sequential process by DOC employees who consider each of these factors for one inmate at a time.

In addition to new inmates, the DOC also oversees the transfer of inmates within the state prison system, says Nicklow.

"Every year, we receive about 50,000 petitions from our correctional institutions requesting a transfer of an inmate. Before the Lehigh model was developed, we looked at each inmate individually and evaluated all the factors regarding that inmate separately. This is a pretty cumbersome process."

In assigning and transferring inmates, says Nicklow, IADSS considers the needs of each inmate and the resourcesempty beds, security level, treatment programs and vacanciesthat are available at each of the state's correctional institutions.

"The Lehigh model looks at everything simultaneously and holistically. It makes the most appropriate recommendation for everybody based on the resources that are available at that time.

"With the current process, it takes seven people most of a week to do this. Now the whole job can be done with the push of a button, and the outcomes are actually better. We're making better decisions and we're meeting all the requirements for the inmates' assignments."

IADSS has also helped PADOC reduce the time inmates must wait for openings in treatment programs that they are required to complete to qualify for parole or early release, says Nicklow.

"Our most difficult problem is the treatment program waiting list. The Lehigh model helps us prepare for parole hearings. We like to start programming about 10 months before the minimum sentencing date so that all the programs are completed when an inmate is released, and so that what an inmate learns from a program is fresh in his mind when he is released.

"As a result of the Lehigh model, the start time for entering programs has been decreased. The model will help us make sure that no one starts a program just before their parole. And it will help us avoid having to transfer inmates from one facility to another to get into a program."

IADSS has also helped PADOC reduce human error in assigning inmates, Wetzel wrote in his letter to INFORMS.

"Before we worked with Lehigh University on this project," he wrote, "our internal processes for making these assignments relied on human judgment, and led to many sub-optimal placement decisions."

The industrial and systems engineering department began studying inmate assignments five years ago when Li did an internship with PADOC and developed a decision tree identifying the factors involved in inmate assigning. Li earned her Ph.D. in 2013 and the project was taken up by Shahabsafa.

IADSS, says Shahabsafa, is based on mixed integer linear optimization (MILO), a method that was applied nearly three decades ago to the scheduling of airline crews and in other industries but had not previously been tried with inmate assignments in correctional institutions.

Shahabsafa is writing his Ph.D. thesis on an Air Force-funded project involving structural design optimization.

The collaboration with PADOC, he says, has been particularly rewarding.

"It has been a great opportunity for me to work on a real-world application. I have been going to PADOC on a biweekly basis for three years.

"Having spent a lot of time and energy on this project, it is an honor for me to see that the product is being used in the actual daily process of the Department of Corrections and that our paper has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Wagner Prize."
Schematic of the electrically pumped quantum dot micro-ring laser. Credit: Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, HKUST

Decades ago, the Moore's law predicted that the number of transistors in a dense integrated circuit doubles approximately every two years. This prediction was proved to be right in the past few decades, and the quest for ever smaller and more efficient semiconductor devices have been a driving force in breakthroughs in the technology.

With an enduring and increasing need for miniaturization and large-scale integration of photonic components on the silicon platform for data communication and emerging applications in mind, a group of researchers from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and University of California, Santa Barbara, successfully demonstrated record-small electrically pumped micro-lasers epitaxially grown on industry standard (001) silicon substrates in a recent study. A submilliamp threshold of 0.6 mA, emitting at the near-infrared (1.3?m) was achieved for a micro-laser with a radius of 5 m. The thresholds and footprints are orders of magnitude smaller than those previously reported lasers epitaxially grown on Si.

Their findings were published in the prestigious journal Optica on August 4, 2017 (DOI: 10.1364/OPTICA.4.000940).

"We demonstrated the smallest current injection QD lasers directly grown on industry-standard (001) silicon with low power consumption and high temperature stability," said Kei May Lau, Fang Professor of Engineering and Chair Professor of the Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering at HKUST.

"The realization of high-performance micron-sized lasers directly grown on Si represents a major step toward utilization of direct III-V/Si epitaxy as an alternate option to wafer-bonding techniques as on-chip silicon light sources with dense integration and low power consumption."

The two groups have been collaborating and has previously developed continuous-wave (CW) optically-pumped micro-lasers operating at room temperature that were epitaxially grown on silicon with no germanium buffer layer or substrate miscut. This time, they demonstrated record-small electrically pumped QD lasers epitaxially grown on silicon. "Electrical injection of micro-lasers is a much more challenging and daunting task: first, electrode metallization is limited by the micro size cavity, which may increase the device resistance and thermal impedance; second, the whispering gallery mode (WGM) is sensitive to any process imperfection, which may increase the optical loss," said Yating Wan, a HKUST PhD graduate and now postdoctoral fellow at the Optoelectronics Research Group of UCSB.

"As a promising integration platform, silicon photonics need on-chip laser sources that dramatically improve capability, while trimming size and power dissipation in a cost-effective way for volume manufacturability. The realization of high-performance micron-sized lasers directly grown on Si represents a major step toward utilization of direct III-V/Si epitaxy as an alternate option to wafer-bonding techniques," said John Bowers, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of AIM Photonics.

More information: Yating Wan et al, 13 m submilliamp threshold quantum dot micro-lasers on Si, Optica (2017). DOI: 10.1364/OPTICA.4.000940 Journal information: Optica

Provided by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
On the left, the normal or wild type (left) wing pattern of the passionfruit butterfly Heliconius eratus demophoon, on the right, the same butterfly after the WntA gene has been knocked out. Credit: Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

An international research team working at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama knocked-out a single control gene in the DNA of seven different butterfly species. In the Sept. 18 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences early online edition, they reveal the surprising results of rewiring the WntA gene: a single gene influences the exuberant diversity of butterfly wing patterns in nature.

"Butterfly wing patterns are amazing:" said Owen McMillan, staff scientist at STRI and co-author, "a true evolutionary novelty, highly diverse and strongly shaped by natural and sexual selection. By genetically engineering individuals from different species, we are quickly coming to grips with how this diversity is generated. Surprisingly, a single gene, and one that is used repeatedly throughout development, can have huge effects."The WntA protein is a very conserved signaling molecule. The WntA gene is part of a small family of genes influencing body plans and other patterns during insect development. It codes for a secreted protein molecule that seems to act as a diffusible signal, a so-called morphogen, that establishes the positions of specialized cell types within a tissue. The term morphogen was coined by Alan Turing, the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence who was interested in the chemical basis of morphogenesis.

"Imagine a paint-by-number image of a butterfly," McMillan said. "The instructions for coloring the wing are written in the genetic code. By deleting some of the instructions, we can infer which part says 'paint the number two's red' or 'paint the number one's black. Of course, it is a lot more complicated than this because what is actually changing are networks of genes that have a cascading effect on pattern and color."

"Working in the Smithsonian's new lab in Gamboa, Panama, we injected butterfly eggs with an RNA probe that attached to part of the genetic code, a gene called WntA, which we suspected played a role in the expression of color," said Carolina Concha, Biogenomics Post-doctoral Fellow at STRI. "After knocking out the gene, we let the butterflies grow up and compared the wing patterns of the knockout mutants with the original wing patterns," said Richard Wallbank a STRI and Cambridge postdoctoral fellow.

Repeating the same procedure in seven different butterfly species and comparing the results, the team discovered unexpected ways in which WntA gene influences wing pattern.

Owen McMillan, Staff scientist at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, holding two butterflies in the genus Heliconius at the insectaries in Gamboa, Panama, where collaborators from universities in the U.S., England, France and elsewhere work together to understand butterfly evolution. Credit: Sean Mattson, STRI

"Going back to the paint-by-number analogy, 'Number one' can move around the wing in different butterflies species, and even in different color pattern variants of the same species. In Monarchs, for example, the gene is expressed with fine precision along the wing veins. In contrast, in Heliconius, a group known for vivid wing patterns, the gene is expressed in bold brush strokes from essentially the tip to the base of the wing. And it gets even crazier, because the color of 'Number one' can change depending on context, shifting between different colored pigments and even changing how light is reflected. In butterflies, color is a function of both pigment and the structural properties of the scales cells that cover the wing," McMillan said.

WntA was one of the early genes discovered to be involved in patterning in Heliconius by Arnaud Martin, when working as a STRI Short-term Fellow during his Ph.D. research. The team can predict how many different genes this one regulatory gene controls based on the number of potential regions along the gene that it can bind to. This is much less costly to the organism than having to create different proteins for each job.

Video explains the research behind a breakthrough in understanding of how genetics and evolution work to shape biodiversity in the colorful patterns of butterfly wings. Credit: The George Washington University

"The butterflies and moths, the Lepidoptera, are the third largest group of organisms known on the planet," said Martin, now Assistant Professor of Biology at George Washington University and corresponding author of the study. "Once we identified the sets of genes regulated by a gene like WntA, we can look at the sequence of different butterflies in the family tree to see when and where these changes took place during the 60 million years of butterfly evolution."

This illustration provides an explanation of the process of using CRISPR gene-editing technology to investigate the key gene that determines butterfly wing patterns. Credit: The George Washington University
Credit: NASA/JPL

Scientists at ANU have produced the best estimate of Earth's elemental composition which will help them understand how the Earth formed 4.6 billion years ago.

The Solar System began as a dense blob in a molecular cloud of hydrogen gas and dust that collapsed under its own gravity, forming the early Sun, Earth and other planets.

Co-researcher Associate Professor Charley Lineweaver said the Earth's chemical composition was set at that early stage of formation.

"The four most abundant elements - iron, oxygen, silicon and magnesium - make up more than 90 per cent of the Earth's mass, but working out exactly what the Earth is made of is tricky," said Dr Lineweaver from the Research School of Earth Sciences and the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics at ANU.

"Seismological studies of earthquakes inform us about the Earth's core, mantle and crust, but it's hard to convert this information into an elemental composition.

"Our deepest drilling has only scratched the surface down to 10 kilometres of our 6,400 kilometre radius planet. Rocks at the surface only come from as deep as the upper mantle."

The research is published in the international journal Icarus and is available here.

Lead author ANU PhD scholar Haiyang Wang said the team made the most comprehensive estimates of the Earth's composition based on a meta-analysis of previous estimates of the mantle and core, and a new estimate of the core's mass.

"Our work focused on getting realistic uncertainties so that our reference model can be used in future comparisons of the Earth with the Sun, or with Mars or with any other body in the Solar System," said Mr Wang from the ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics.

Co-researcher Professor Trevor Ireland from the ANU Research School of Earth Sciences said planetary scientists would find many uses for this new composition record.

"This will have far-reaching importance, not only for planetary bodies in our Solar System but also other star systems in the universe," he said.

Haiyang Wang has received the Prime Minister's Australia Asia Award to support his PhD research at ANU.

More information: Haiyang S. Wang et al. The elemental abundances (with uncertainties) of the most Earth-like planet, Icarus (2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.icarus.2017.08.024 Journal information: Icarus
Image messaging service Snapchat has blocked access to Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera for users in Saudi Arabia

Global image messaging service Snapchat has scrubbed Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera from its app in Saudi Arabia at the request of Saudi authorities, the company said on Monday.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a spokesman for parent company Snap Inc. said.

The request to block Al Jazeera's Snapchat presence in the kingdom was made before the weekend, the company told AFP.

According to Snap Inc., the Saudi ministry of culture and information found Al Jazeera's Discover Publisher Story channel to be in violation of local laws.

Saudi Arabia and its allies the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have been boycotting Qatar since June 5 in the region's worst diplomatic crisis in years.

They sealed the emirate's only land border, ordered its citizens to leave and closed their airspace and waters to Qatari flights and shipping.

They also demanded that it close broadcasting giant Al-Jazeera.

Until now, Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel can still be viewed in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt.

Saudi Arabia, with its bulging youth population, is among the world's top users of social media per capita. The internet represents a limited space for freedom of expression in the conservative kingdom.

 2017 AFP
The Shenzhen Declaration for Plant Sciences, runs under the slogan of "Uniting plant sciences and society to build a green, sustainable Earth." Credit: Chip Clark, Genlin Jiao, Hong Jin, Sandra Knapp, Steven Manchester, Jun Wen, Bob Wick and Li Zhang. The picture on the top row (right) appeared in the Los Angeles Times on April 7, 2017.

Environmental degradation, unsustainable resource use, and biodiversity loss are just a few points in the long list of pertinent issues that call for collaborative solutions from science and society together.

Unanimously supported by participants at the XIX International Botanical Congress, held in July 2017, Shenzhen, China, the Shenzhen Declaration for Plant Sciences, runs under the slogan of "Uniting plant sciences and society to build a green, sustainable Earth" and comes in response to the rapid changes experienced by both our Planet and society.

On 29 July 2017 in the closing session of the Congress, nearly 7,000 plant scientists from 77 countries endorsed a statement to focus their research and educational efforts on finding solutions to the growing problems of of our changing world.

Central to the declaration comes a commitment from its signatories and supporters alike to take immediate in both their lifestyles and their research programs to find solutions before an environmental threshold is crossed that will inevitably lead to irreversible degradation of our societies, natural habitats, and biodiversity.

Although it was largely agreed that the immense changes are the result of unbridled human activities, it was also made clear that it is still in society's power to find solutions to reverse or slow down some of these processes.

Many scientists believe that humanity and the planet may have already crossed that threshold," explain PhytoKeys Editor-in-Chief, John Kress, Smithsonian Institution, USA and his Deputy Editor-in-Chief Sandy Knapp, Natural History Museum London, UK, in their dedicated Editorial for the journal. "However, the authors of the Declaration and the botanists who have endorsed it believe that time still exists for answers to be found and implemented. However, that time is short."

The Declaration calls for collaborative approaches by the rapidly evolving field of Plant Science and other disciplines and society, including implementation of new technologies, valuing local and traditional knowledge and greater engagement with the public.

Paving a solid and inspiring roadmap for development for the botanical community, the Declaration outlines seven priorities:

To become responsible scientists and research communities who pursue plant sciences in the context of a changing world.

To enhance support for the plant sciences to achieve global sustainability.

To cooperate and integrate across nations and regions and to work together across disciplines and cultures to address common goals.

To build and use new technologies and big data platforms to increase exploration and understanding of nature.

To accelerate the inventory of life on Earth for the wise use of nature and the benefit of humankind.

To value, document, and protect indigenous, traditional, and local knowledge about plants and nature.

To engage the power of the public with the power of plants through greater participation and outreach, innovative education, and citizen science.

Find the full text of the Shenzhen Declaration, co-published in the open access journal PhytoKeys and the Journal of Systematics and Evolution.

"We believe that, by working together, we can achieve these goals and connect the increasingly innovative plant sciences with the needs and strengths of human societies." comment the authors of the Declaration. "We strongly believe that only through such collaboration we can work towards creating new paths to a green, sustainable future for Earth, where plants and people in harmony is at the centre."

More information: Shenzhen Declaration Drafting Committee. The Shenzhen Declaration on Plant Sciences  Uniting plant sciences and society to build a green, sustainable Earth, PhytoKeys (2017). DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.86.20859 Journal information: PhytoKeys
Three of the recorded sponge species (Niphates olemda, Tedania coralliophila and Agelas nakamurai) in the Bunaken National Marine Park. Credit: Dr Carlo Cerrano

Comprising more than 17,000 islands, the Indonesian archipelago is one of the world's most biodiverse places on Earth.

Sponges, aquatic organisms whose bodies consist of numerous pores to allow the ingress of water, are key components of this richness and play a fundamental role in the survival of coral reef habitats. Furthermore, they are also known for their medicinal benefits.

Unfortunately, due to the paucity of taxonomic expertise, the sponges from the Indonesian reefs are often ignored in monitoring surveys and conservation programmes, while their diversity is largely underestimated.

Researchers from the Italian Universita Politecnica delle Marche and Universita degli Studi di Genova, PharmaMar, Spain, and University of Sam Ratulangi, Indonesia, describe six new species in their paper in the open access journal, ZooKeys.

Inspired by their extraordinary biodiversity, the researchers teamed up with the pharmaceutical company PharmaMar to conduct several expeditions in the waters of North Sulawesi Island.

The authors reported a total of 94 demosponge species belonging to 33 families living in the North Sulawesi Island. Amongst them, there are six species new to science and two previously unknown symbiotic relationships.

One of the new sponge species, Psammocinia alba. Credit: Dr Carlo Cerrano

Seven of the recorded species were collected for the very first time since their original description.

However, these findings are still scarce, given the abundance of the sponges in similar localities in the Indonesian archipelago.

In conclusion, the authors note that the marine diversity in Indonesia is still far from being well known.

"Thanks to this impressive diversity, these areas are important spots for diving tourism and require the urgent development of sustainable tourism practices," they say.

More information: Barbara Calcinai et al, Demosponge diversity from North Sulawesi, with the description of six new species, ZooKeys (2017). DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.680.12135 Journal information: ZooKeys
Sandia National Laboratories engineer Mark Tucker holds a sample of decontamination foam modified to stick to the walls and ceilings of subway tunnels. Tucker has spent much of the past 20 years thinking about ways to clean up chemical or biological warfare agents. Credit: Randy Montoya

If you're like most people, you don't spend much time thinking about what would happen if anthrax was released into your local subway system.

Luckily, Sandia National Laboratories engineer Mark Tucker has spent much of the past 20 years thinking about incidents involving chemical or biological warfare agents, and the best ways to clean them up. Tucker's current project focuses on cleaning up a subway system after the release of a biological warfare agent such as anthrax.

In addition to developing Sandia's decontamination foam, which was used to decontaminate parts of federal office buildings and mailrooms during anthrax letter attacks in 2001, Tucker has led Sandia's team during numerous chemical and biological remediation projects sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate's Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency.

These projects focused on specific remediation situations, starting with cleaning up an airport after a biological agent release. Teams of researchers tested available decontamination methods and technologies, learned what current technologies can't do, researched solutions and then developed recommendations in case of an airport attack.

Their work progressed through a series of DHS projects to clean up an airport after a chemical release, steps to take in a citywide anthrax attack and how to scour a subway system after a chemical release.

A critical aspect of cleaning up chemical and biological warfare agents is figuring out what the contaminant is and how far it has spread. Sandia engineer Bob Knowlton has worked on this challenge for a dozen years. His team has developed scientific sampling methods to determine the extent and nature of the contamination. Sampling also is essential to confirm the decontamination was effective and the site is safe to re-enter.

Tucker said, "What we're trying to do is make it so that if somebody does release anthrax into a subway system, we can get the system back into operation as soon as possible while still protecting public health and safety."

Subway systems are complex with many moving parts and miles of tunnels

The DHS-sponsored Underground Transport Restoration project is wrapping up after four years of research. Tucker, Knowlton and about a dozen other Sandia researchers and their collaborators at other national laboratories and local, state and federal agencies have looked at everything from how to clean subway stations and grimy tunnels to where a surrogate for anthrax would go when released inside the New York City subway system and the best way to decontaminate a subway car.

In July 2015, in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency, researchers tested the decontamination of a real subway car. At $3 million to $5 million each, subway cars aren't cheap, so operators need to clean them up to get the system back up and running again. An extra-strong dose of an industrial gaseous pesticide, methyl bromide, can kill anthrax spores without damaging the subway car, said Tucker.

However, the process is time-consuming and subway systems have a lot of cars. For instance, the New York City subway system has more than 6,000 railcars. Knowlton said, "When you think of the number of railcars and the time and effort it would take to decon a significant number, it's clear that it's pretty important to determine if a car has been contaminated."

Scientific sampling to speed up subway screening

The current way to test for anthrax is to take swabs, send them to a laboratory and watch for the growth of Bacillus anthracis bacteria. To speed up this process, Knowlton's team has worked out recommendations for the initial set of samples on the first day after a suspected release to aid decision-makers. These recommendations include suggested swab locations for subway tunnels, railcars, stations, even control rooms.

Subway trains really move material around so it's important to see where a surrogate for anthrax would go when released inside an operational subway system, said Sandia National Laboratories researcher Mark Tucker. Credit: Randy Montoya

To reduce the number of swabs that need to be analyzed by laboratories, Knowlton's team looked at ways to improve that aspect of the process as well. The researchers developed methods to handle subway grime on swabs and suggestions for combining several samples in one culture. If no Bacillus anthracis bacteria grows, then all of those swab locations are clean.

In May 2016, researchers released harmless particles about the size of anthrax spores into the New York City subway system during operational hours. The test required more than 100 people from several national labs, the EPA and other state and federal agencies to collect thousands of samples to track the spread of particles. The data were used to update a model of the New York City subway system, which can be used to assess the spread of a potential release.

Testing decon methods in a large, mock system

Last fall, Sandia's team was involved in a large-scale test to figure out the best ways to decontaminate subway stations and tunnels. Subway tunnels tend to be cool and grimy, which makes them hard to clean, Tucker said. During the four-week test in the mock subway, the team looked at modifications to several common decontaminants to improve their effectiveness in subway conditions: bleach, common swimming pool chemicals and Sandia's decon foam.

In addition to the ingredients of the original decontamination foamsoapy surfactants and mild oxidizers like those found in toothpastethe new version includes a chemical that helps the decon foam stick to the walls and even the ceilings of the subway tunnel longer, so the decontaminants can kill more of the anthrax. Sandia chemical engineer Patrick Burton developed this version. Even cooler, Tucker said, is that "once the water evaporates, you're left with a fine powder you can just brush off. It's a way of overcoming the grime and the temperature problems without creating a mess."

Sandia's decontamination foam was originally developed with funding provided by the Department of Energy and National Nuclear Security Administration Chemical and Biological National Security Program. It has been licensed to companies, which have developed it for use in a variety of applications, such as commercial and residential mold remediation, disinfection of hospitals and schools and pesticide removal for farm equipment.

The other new Sandia technology the team tested was a spray knockdown system partly developed with Laboratory Directed Research and Development funds and refined by Sandia technologist Charles Brusseau. Using a very fine mist of charged liquid droplets, dilute decon foam or even plain water, they can attract and pull anthrax spores out of the air. This could prevent people from breathing in anthrax and might even help stop its spread.

Knowlton's team also demonstrated several new technologies to make sampling easier and more efficient. Among these technologies was a smartphone app to make sample record keeping more reliable and straightforward for those in the field. The app can also combine the laboratory results and the sample locations into a geospatial tool showing contamination hot spots to aid decision-makers. The researchers have even incorporated these tools into augmented and virtual reality systems.

Findings to be available to subway systems and emergency planners

Now that the multiagency group has developed and tested decontamination methods, they're compiling their findings into an instruction manual that includes guidance to help subways if a biological agent is ever released into their system. The manual will outline all the decontamination methods, with the strengths and limitations of each.

Once the report is completed and reviewed by the pertinent federal agencies, it will be available to municipal subway systems and emergency planners. Previous remediation projects published a 300-page document of their findings, but this project also will transfer its findings into a user-friendly software tool. This software will include a flowchart highlighting decision points. The local, state and federal responders can select a decision such as "decontaminate subway cars" and see the information they need to make an informed choice.

In addition to DHS and EPA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Lawrence Livermore, Argonne, Pacific Northwest and Brookhaven national laboratories and MIT Lincoln Laboratory took part in the Underground Transport Restoration project.
Extinction risks are greater for animals at the small and large ends of the scale. Credit: Oliver Day, Oregon State University

Animals in the Goldilocks zoneneither too big, nor too small, but just the right sizeface a lower risk of extinction than do those on both ends of the scale, according to an extensive global analysis.

Reporting today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers who determined body masses for thousands of vertebrate animal species showed that the largest and smallest species face a greater risk of extinction than do mid-sized animals.

Disproportionate losses at the large and small ends of the scale raise the likelihood of significant changes to the way natural ecosystems function in forests, grasslands, oceans and even rivers and streams"the living architecture of the planet," the researchers wrote.

"Knowing how animal body size correlates with the likelihood of a species being threatened provides us with a tool to assess extinction risk for the many species we know very little about," said William Ripple, a distinguished professor of ecology at Oregon State University and lead author of the study.

Ripple and colleagues from the United States, Australia and Switzerland looked at the more than 27,000 vertebrate animal species assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature in the so-called Red List. About 4,400 are threatened with extinction.

Among the groups of animals evaluated were birds, reptiles, amphibians, bony fishes, cartilaginous fishes (mostly sharks and rays) and mammals.

The largest animals are threatened principally with harvesting by humans. "Many of the larger species are being killed and consumed by humans, and about 90 percent of all threatened species larger than 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) in size are being threatened by harvesting," said Ripple.

"Harvesting of these larger animals takes a variety of forms including regulated and unregulated fishing, hunting and trapping for meat consumption, the use of body parts as medicine and killing due to unintentional bycatch," the authors wrote.

Meanwhile, threats to the smallest animals may be grossly underestimated. The smallest species with high extinction risk consist of tiny vertebrate animals generally less than about 3 ounces (77 grams) in body weight. These diminutive species are mostly threatened by loss or modification of habitat. Examples include the Clarke's banana frog, sapphire-bellied hummingbird, gray gecko, hog-nosed bat and the waterfall climbing cave fish. Small species that require freshwater habitats are especially imperiled.

Different conservation strategies will be needed to address threats to the largest and smallest animals, the scientists said. Well known mammals at the large end of the scalewhales, elephants, rhinos, lionshave been the target of protection programs, but conservation attention is also needed for large-bodied species that are not mammals. They include large fish, birds, amphibians and reptiles such as the whale shark, Atlantic sturgeon, Somali ostrich, Chinese giant salamander and the Komodo dragon.

Human activity seems poised to chop off both the head and tail of the size distribution of life, the authors added, which will fundamentally restructure many ecological communities.

More information: William J. Ripple el al., "Extinction risk is most acute for the world's largest and smallest vertebrates," PNAS (2017). www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1702078114 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Tidal indicators in coastal sandstones of the Miocene Nyalau Formation, Bintulu, Sarawak. Credit: M.H. Amir Hassan

A study on 2218 million-year-old tidal deposits reveals insights on the significance of mangrove organic carbon sequestration in the South China Sea at geological time scales.

A collaborative study between geoscientists at the Department of Geology, University of Malaya, and the Department of Earth Science and Engineering, Imperial College London, have shown that tidally-generated deposits form significantly thick successions in the Neogene Sarawak Basin. In addition, tidal modelling using reconstructed palaeogeographic maps show that the South China Sea experienced the highest tides on Earth during the Oligo-Miocene, which explains the predominance of tidal deposits in the region. The work also highlights the importance of mangrove organic carbon burial in the South China Sea region as a major component of the global carbon cycle, and the importance of geologic processes (working at the scale of millions of years) in the sequestration of organic carbon.

The study (which is published in a special publication of the Geological Society, London) analysed 72 m of sedimentary rock of the Nyalau Formation exposed around Bintulu, Sarawak, and over 2,000 m of core samples extracted from oil-bearing fields of the Balingian Province, offshore Sarawak (courtesy of PETRONAS). The team has concluded that 22  18 million years ago, the Sarawak Basin formed a large, embayed coast, with numerous rivers supplying sediment to the basin. Abundant tidal signatures in the deltaic sediments indicate significant tidal influence.

Thick succession of mangrove-derived mudrock and associated coal, underlying tidally influenced channel sandstone. Nyalau Formation, Bintulu, Sarawak. Credit: M.H. Amir Hassan

The results of the sedimentological analysis were also published in Nature Communications, led by Imperial College with collaborations from University of Malaya, University of York and Brunei Darussalam. The researchers looked at the distribution of mangrove coals and mudrocks, which are closely associated with the tidal deposits. Widespread distribution of tidal and mangrove deposits (ranging in age between 15.5 to 11.7 Ma) indicate a predominantly tidally-influenced setting for the South China Sea shelf and associated coastline during the Oligo-Miocene. Oligo-Miocene age, mangrove-derived coals and mudrocks are also widespread throughout the peripheral South China Sea basins, where they form important oil-and-gas source rocks.

Utilizing data on the volume of hydrocarbons (oil and gas) in place, the total volume of sediments that have accumulated in the South China Sea basins and the subsidence history of the basins since the Oligocene, the authors estimate that the organic carbon storage in peripheral South China Sea basins exceeded 4,000 Gt, or equivalent to 2,000 p.p.m of atmospheric CO2.

The researchers are now in the process expanding the work by collecting more data in the northern Borneo region, especially in poorly accessible locations, in order to refine the current palaeogeographic and palaeohydrodynamic models for the Neogene South China Sea.

More information: Meor H. Amir Hassan et al. Sedimentology and stratigraphic architecture of a Miocene retrogradational, tide-dominated delta system: Balingian Province, offshore Sarawak, Malaysia, Geological Society, London, Special Publications (2016). DOI: 10.1144/SP444.12 Meor H. Amir Hassan et al. Sedimentology and stratigraphic development of the upper Nyalau Formation (Early Miocene), Sarawak, Malaysia: A mixed wave- and tide-influenced coastal system, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences (2012). DOI: 10.1016/j.jseaes.2012.12.018 Daniel S. Collins et al. Tidal dynamics and mangrove carbon sequestration during the OligoMiocene in the South China Sea, Nature Communications (2017). DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15698 Journal information: Nature Communications

Provided by University of Malaya
PHOTO: CPIB Facebook page

Even the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) cannot resist the allure of cute mascots. Its new representative is a whiter than white bear called Kopi Lim.

The agency introduced its new mascot in a Facebook post on Saturday (16 Sept), explaining that Kopi Lim stands for Kaypoh (inquisitive), Organised, Positive, Industrious, Levelheaded, Innovative, Meticulous.

I will work hard with the rest of the CPIB officers to battle corruption swiftly and surely, without fear or favour! pledged Kopi Lim.

In Hokkien, lim kopi literally means to drink coffee. If someone is invited to lim kopi by the authorities, it often implies that one has fallen afoul of them.

The post has since been shared 140 times. While most Facebook users who commented or shared the post said the mascot was cute, a few wondered what the agency was doing.

CPIB trying to be cute. I dont know how I feel about this, wrote Facebook user Daphne Maia Loo. Another user, Jarrod Luo wrote, I dont want to live on this planet anymore.

On Monday, Kopi Lim posted his first Facebook post on CPIBs page describing his first day of work.

I have some time to read up on the CPIBs history and just found out that today is our 65th birthday! Founded in 1952, the first Director CPIB, Mr Richard Middleton-Smith led a lean outfit of only 13 officers to combat corruption. From their small room at the Old Supreme Court, the team managed to uncover widespread corruption and valuable information on opium smuggling. Corruption was rife then. 5 locations and 65 years later, Singapore is now one of the least corrupt nations in the world, said Kopi Lim.

More Singapore stories

Singapore F1 race organisers investigating possible breach of track security, alleged bribery

SEA Games marathon winner Soh Rui Yong lodges protest over prize money
Organisers are investigating an alleged breach in track security during the 2017 Singapore Grand Prix. (Photo: Screengrab from Facebook)

The Singapore Grand Prix race organisers are investigating an alleged breach in track security after a social media post surfaced about F1 fans allegedly bribing a guard in order to access the track.

The investigation was triggered by an article on website All Singapore Stuff on 17 September which appeared to reproduce a Facebook post that shows a man and woman posing inside the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

The post caption said, 3am in the morning. Bribed the security guard to let us onto the track. He not only agreed, he took the photo. Non F1 fans wont understand this, but most of us will.

A spokesperson from the Singapore Grand Prix said in a statement, The safety of our patrons is of utmost priority and we view the allegation of bribery seriously.

We are working with SRS, the appointed security agency assigned to the reported area, to investigate the claim.

A previous security breach during the 2015 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix involved a British man strolling along the track during a race. He was later jailed for six weeks.

In 2016, a monitor lizard appeared on the track during a practice run, causing Red Bull driver Max Verstappen to tell his team, Theres a giant lizard on the track! Im not joking.

Briton Lewis Hamilton won this years edition  the 10th anniversary of the night race in Singapore  after rival Sebastian Vettel crashed out just after the race began.

Related stories:
Shoot-outs between drug gangs left at least six people dead over the weekend in two Rio de Janeiro favelas, the latest in a flare-up of violence in recent months. Through much of Sunday morning, heavy exchanges of gunfire terrorized residents of Rocinha, Rio's biggest favela with 75,000 inhabitants. Nearly a quarter the city's 6.45 million population live in favelas, the term Brazilians give for the poor, densely populated neighborhoods clustered on the city's steep hillsides. "Clashes between traffickers in Rocinha. Avoid the area," Rio's military police warned on the force's Twitter account. Local security services told AFP that one person was killed in Rocinha on Sunday, the day after five other people were killed in neighborhoods north of the city. Witness accounts on social media indicated more than one person may have been killed in Rocinha, and several videos showed armed men running through the neighborhood's maze of alleys. Several helicopters overflew the area and entrances to a metro station at Sao Conrado -- a wealthy neighborhood in southern Rio below Rocinha -- was closed for several hours. Police also were attacked in the early morning by a group of heavily armed men near the favela, according to the authorities. A police source told AFP that they suspect the violence was due to internal divisions in the gang that controls drug trafficking in Rocinha. According to local media, members of the same gang were behind clashes that left five dead overnight Friday to Saturday in Morro do Juramento, a favela north of Rio. Firefighters confirmed that they recovered five bodies from that area, while the local press put the toll there at seven dead. Rio has seen deadly violence spiked during the first half of the year to its highest level since 2009, with 3,457 homicides, a 15 percent jump from the same period last year, according to the Public Security Institute. The growing sense of insecurity has been aggravated by the state of Rio's dismal financial situation. On the verge of bankruptcy, it is a month behind in payments of wages and salaries to its workers, including the police. The government has turned to the army to combat the upsurge in violence, deploying nearly 10,000 troops at the end of July. They have already taken part in two huge operations against the armed gangs in the city's favelas. The newspaper O Globo, however, reported that the military has not taken part in the last two operations led by local authorities and the troops may soon be pulled out of the city.
Snapchat has blocked Qatari broadcaster Al Jazeera from its app in Saudi Arabia at the request of Saudi authorities, the image sharing service said Monday, as tensions simmer between the Gulf states. Saudi authorities have accused Al Jazeera of acting as a mouthpiece for extremist groups, a charge it denies. Alongside the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia imposed a blockade on Qatar in June, in the worst diplomatic crisis to roil the Gulf in years. "We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," said a spokesman for parent company Snap Inc. Al Jazeera condemned the blocking as an assault on freedom of expression. "We find Snapchat's action to be alarming and worrying," the broadcaster's acting director general Mostefa Souag said in a statement. "This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they don't agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms." Snap Inc. said Saudi authorities had asked it to block Al Jazeera's account in the kingdom before the weekend, arguing that the broadcaster's Discover channel violated local laws. The broadcaster's website has been blocked in Saudi Arabia for months and authorities shut down its office in the Kingdom when the crisis broke out in June. So far, Al Jazeera's Snapchat channel can still be viewed in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt. The Saudi-led alliance has issued a list of 13 demands to Qatar, accusing it of backing extremism and fostering ties with Riyadh's Shiite rival Tehran. Doha denies the charges, claiming the blockade is an attack on its sovereignty. The crisis has entered its fourth month and is showing no sign of ending, analysts say. Saudi Arabia, with its bulging youth population, is among the world's top per capita users of social media. The internet represents a limited space for freedom of expression in the conservative kingdom.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Monday the United States would send over 3,000 troops to Afghanistan and that most were either on their way or had been notified of their deployment. "It is exactly over 3,000 somewhat and frankly I haven't signed the last of the orders right now as we look at specific, small elements that are going," Mattis told reporters. Reuters previously reported that the United States would send about 3,500 additional troops to Afghanistan. (Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Peter Cooney)
The House Skate Comp 2017 Official edit and gallery

Were strong advocates of skate events as anyone who has paid any attention to our output over the last two decades will know  skate events are the glue that holds what remains of the national skate scene together and they also serve as a platform for new talent to emerge and move on to bigger and better things. Additionally, theyre also a damned good laugh and an excuse to hook up with mates from across the country to skate, piss about, get boozy (if youre old enough) and generally enjoy the straightforward good times that UK skateboarding offers to all.

This counts doubly when youre talking about an indoor skatepark such as The House Skatepark, which has weathered the ups and downs of skateboardings popularity over the 20 years it has been in business whilst maintaining its position as the venue for the biggest and best skater-owned annual event in the country.

Saturday 16th September saw the 19th consecutive House Comp go down in traditional fashion with a heavy local turn out from Sheffield and the surrounding areas, plus hordes of visitors from as far away as Devon turning up to join in.

2017 also saw the addition of a female skate contest for the very first time, ably put together by Dani Gallacher of GirlsSkateUK, which upped the ante for the whole day, as well as exposing those in attendance to a fair few very young female skaters who will no doubt become mainstays of the UK scene going forwards.
Long-time ripper, global traveller and all-round nice dude Jarne Verbruggen has turned pro for Element and as youd expect has dropped an absolute banger of a section to back it up. One of Belgiums finest  Jarne has gone IN right here, so press play, give it a watch and recognise what kind of skills it takes to be a pro skater these days. Crazy spots, crazy slams, cameos from Jacopo Carozzi , Nassim Guammaz and other related heads  this is not your average 3 minutes of skateboarding. Bravo Jarne! You can check out Jarnes pro model over at the Element site . Artwork by Fernando Elvira (@frugitano), filming by various heads, editing by the supremely talented @niki_waltl

cOLLAPSe Skateboards' 6th annual Pool Party went off in style at the Cite de l'Ocean et du Surf in Biarritz, with heads from all over...

Jacopo Carozzi is one of the most exciting skateboarders in Europe right now and, if you don't know, the Stinky Trouble Instagram compilation should set...

Element present the new 'Hand Werpen' Phil Zwijsen pro model, backed up by an edit explaining the myth behind the design alongside Phil ripping the...

Newsletter Terms & Conditions

Please enter your email so we can keep you updated with news, features and the latest offers. If you are not interested you can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell your data and you'll only get messages from us and our partners whose products and services we think you'll enjoy.

Read our full Privacy Policy as well as Terms & Conditions.
There is pretty much one thing you need to understand about the last-minute Obamacare repeal bill Republicans are currently attempting to pass before a drop-dead deadline at the end of September. Of the three major pieces of health care legislation the GOP has considered this year, this one appears to be the most extremethe closest the party could come to ending the Affordable Care Act without actually replacing it.

The GOPs past two repeal plansthe American Health Care Act, which passed the House, and the Better Care Reconciliation Act, which failed in the Senatefollowed the same broad outline. When it came to the individual market, the bills looked like severely degraded versions of Obamacare, offering relatively meager tax credits designed to buy cheap private insurance while allowing states to opt out from at least some of the Affordable Care Acts most popular consumer protections. Both also rolled back the ACAs Medicaid expansion while capping spending on traditional Medicaid for the first time. (On that last front, the Senate bill was notably more draconian.)

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Both bills would have made it harder for many older, sicker, and poorer Americans to buy health coverage, potentially leaving tens of millions uninsured while dealing a historic blow to the governments single largest health care program by enrollment. Some ideas that wormed their way into these billslike the Cruz amendmentlikely would have thrown the insurance markets into outright disarray. Some of the regulatory waivers may have been ripe for abuse. But at the very least, you could say they left in place a default system of support to help lower-income Americans to buy health plans, however measly it may have been.

The new Republican plan, put forth by Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, is different and in many ways more frightening. It repeals Obamacare but does not replace it in any meaningful sense. Instead, the bill would take the money that the government currently spends on the ACAs premium subsidies and Medicaid expansion and dispenses it back to states in the form of block grants that they could use to fund their own health care experiments, whatever those might be. These grants would likely grow more slowly than the cost of insurance or medical care, thus cutting federal health spending by $239 billion over a decade. The law would also give states the right to waive most of Obamacares key regulations, including those that prevent insurers from charging more to people based on their health, so long as they explain their plan to maintain access to adequate and affordable health insurance coverage for individuals with pre-existing coverage. (Its not clear if that plan has to be realistic.)

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Some liberal states might try to preserve a system similar to Obamacare in a Graham-Cassidy worldlike how Massachusetts had Romneycare before the country had Obamacare. But it would be hard, if not impossible, to replicate the real thing. Thats because the bills funding formula is designed not only to shrink federal spending on health care but to shift dollars from predominantly Democratic states that expanded Medicaid under Obamacare to predominantly Republican states that did not. Itll be a smaller pie overall, and places like New York and California that are inclined to expand health coverage will be getting a smaller slice.

Advertisement

Advertisement

As for states that are generally tight-fisted about safety-net spending? Who knows what theyll do. Graham-Cassidy lists six different ways states can use their block grant moneybut the spending categories are purposely broad, and its entirely conceivable that an Alabama or Mississippi would use its money to supplant some of their existing state spending or patch budget holes. This has been a chronic problem with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, which turned cash welfare into a block grant program in the 1990s, and may be the closest parallel to what Republicans are now angling to do to Obamacare.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

All told, Graham and Cassidy arent really offering a health care proposal. Instead, theyre offering states a meager slush fund.

Worse yet, its a slush fund with a self-destruct function. Graham-Cassidy does not appropriate any money for its block grants after 2026. The cash just disappears. Cassidy has tried to write off this bizarre detail of the law as a mere technicality, claiming, according to Politico, that budget restrictions prevent him from funding the block grants beyond 2026 and reassuring reporters that Congress would keep the money flowing in the same way its continually agreed to fund the Childrens Health Insurance Program. That is not a convincing excuse. The budget reconciliation ruleswhich Republicans are relying on to pass repeal with just 50 votesonly bar legislation that raises the long-term deficit. Since Graham-Cassidys block grants would actually cut federal spending, it should be possible to make them permanent. The fact that the senators apparently dont want to is fairly ominous.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Finally, all of this is paired with a cap-and-cut approach to traditional Medicaid that is just as draconian as what the most recent Senate bill proposed.

Advertisement

Advertisement

The current version of Graham-Cassidy has only been out for about a week, meaning experts havent had a ton of time to digest the bills language. The deeper you wade into it, though, the more worrying some of the details seem to be. Edwin Park at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities pointed out to me that Graham-Cassidys formula might actually penalize states for trying to help their residents buy more generous coverage. Its pretty crazy, he told me. Youre not only encouraging states to cover fewer people, but also to provide them worse coverage. Unfortunately, Senate Republicans need to pass a bill before the Sept. 30 deadline, when their reconciliation vehicle expires. We should get a Congressional Budget Office score before then, but not with enough time to properly digest a piece of legislation that would remake much of the U.S. health care system.

But what we know about the bill already is frightening enough. And in many ways, its the perfect capstone to the entire Obamacare repeal process, in which Republicans have struggled to find any sort of coherent substitute for the health care law they want to dismantle. Republicans promised to repeal and replace Obamacare. By lining up behind Graham-Cassidy, theyve essentially shrugged and said, Lets not and say we did.
A new small business program in Louisiana could potentially serve as a model for communities around the country looking to support and fund small businesses.

Asset Builders of Southwest Louisiana, which is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, actually started as a way to help low and moderate income residents save enough to buy homes in the area. But Asset Builders is now adding a Business Capitalization Component to help existing businesses capitalize on their investments.

In order to qualify for the program, business owners must live in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron or Jeff Davis parishes in Louisiana. They must be active in business for at least a year. They must have a business banking account, EIN, Schedule C (if applicable), and occupational license (if required by their local government). And they must also attend a program orientation to learn about other criteria and eligible uses of the grant funds.

Once accepted, business owners can open IDAs, which are savings accounts that match their deposits up to a predetermined maximum amount. That amount can vary for each business based on a number of factors. Essentially, its a way for businesses to make even more from the money they put into their savings.

More Local Small Business Programs on the Way?

For the community, supporting small businesses in this way can provide a big boost to the local economy. Small businesses are likely to hire local workers and keep their money in the community. So if this program is a success, it could potentially start a trend toward more local small business programs. And if other communities around the country use it as a model, it could provide a major boost to small businesses and the economy as a whole.
Focus is on 4G networks, but companies also prepare for using the Internet of Things technology.

When a customer makes calls, sends texts and uses data, the phone still communicates with the operator's mobile network. (Source: AP/TASR)

Font size: A - | A +

By the end of this year, some mobile providers may cover as much as 90 percent of the populated area in Slovakia with modern 4G networks. This stems from their plans presented to The Slovak Spectator.

In addition, some of them are also focusing on building the network necessary for the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, though the coverage is currently not as extensive.

Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement

The launching of the IoT network is much cheaper than the construction of a standard mobile network, but providers need to have a reason to invest into such a network, Jan Trangel from the Zive.sk and Mobilmania.sk websites told The Slovak Spectator.

Focus on 4G

All four mobile operators in Slovakia confirmed to The Slovak Spectator that they want to extend the coverage of the 4G network soon.

Slovak Telekom, for example, currently covers more than 88 percent of the populated area and plans to increase the speed in selected localities. Orange Slovakia plans to extend the networks coverage to 90 percent of the populated area from the current 80.1 percent by the end of this year. DanubiaTel, which owns the youngest telecommunication operator 4ka, also plans to increase coverage from the current 70 percent of the populated area and expand the existing network.

Meanwhile, another provider, O2 Slovakia, plans to increase the coverage of both 4G and 4.5G network.

Some customers, who do not have any base station situated close by and receive only a weak signal, may consider the speed of covering Slovakia with a new, modern network to be slow. The fact is that providers need to take several factors into consideration, Martin Drobny, editor-in-chief of PC Revue magazine, explained to The Slovak Spectator.

Mobile providers use different approaches to building the 4G network, adds Trangel. While one of them focuses on achieving the greatest coverage possible, the other wants to cover a bigger area with a quicker network.

It is highly probable that at the end of this year some providers will exceed 90-percent coverage of the population with 4G, Trangel said.

IoT networks under construction

Meanwhile, some mobile providers are also building networks necessary for using the Internet of Things (IoT) technology.

Slovak Telekom, for example, plans to launch a new NB-IoT network soon. It is also offering various services for a smart household, with customers being able to choose from 32 devices like movement sensors, smart sockets and lights, said the companys spokesperson Peter Galik.

They are not connected via Wi-Fi, but via a special platform Qivicon developed for smart household appliances, Galik explained to The Slovak Spectator.

Moreover, Orange Slovensko is preparing an upgrade of the LTE network and has launched the trial of a network based on LoRa technology, i.e.a long range, low power wireless platform that is used for building IoT networks. It also operates the IoT platform for managing IoT devices, collecting and visualising data, said spokesperson Alexandra Piskunova.

In addition to common mobile providers, there are companies building separate networks designed especially for IoT. One of them is Sigfox, whose construction began in Slovakia in April 2017. It is provided by SimpleCell, which signed a deal with Towercom, provider of TV and radio signal coverage.

Unlike an ordinary network, Sigfox secures coverage in various landscapes, which includes meadows and fields.

The network is thus ideal for use in urban applications, but also for detecting and warning against forest fires, or sensors for monitoring the river currents that are part of flood-prevention systems, Juraj Timko, PR manager of SimpleCell, told The Slovak Spectator.

Another advantage is the reliability of the device, as the batteries last for 10-15 years.

The network now covers about 84 percent of the populated area and 80 percent of the total area of Slovakia. The plan is to increase it to more than 90 percent of the populated area and 85 percent of the total area by the end of 2017, Timko added.

Potential threats

New threats accompany the use of new IoT networks, observers agree. Because of the large number and variety of devices, IoT has become an attractive target for cybercriminals who, if the devices are successfully hacked, can spy on people and blackmail them.

The observers point to the recent distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, where various IoT devices were turned into botnets, such as Mirai and Hajime.

The issue of smart device security is serious, and one we should all be aware of, Vladimir Kuskov, security expert at Kaspersky Lab, told The Slovak Spectator. Last year showed that it is not just possible to target connected devices, but that this is a very real threat. We have seen a huge increase in IoT malware samples, but the potential is even greater.

The high competition in the market of DDoS attacks is pushing attackers to search for new resources that will help them carry out increasingly powerful attacks, Kuskov opines.

The majority of consumers are probably not aware of IoT threats, but this may be because IoT devices are still relatively new, Michal Krejdl, principal malware analyst at anti-virus protection developer Avast, told The Slovak Spectator.

He explains that since each IoT device is available via the internet, there are more options for attackers to infiltrate the network. Moreover, in many cases IoT devices do not use encryption to protect the information they send and many devices also use the cloud as a communication/connection platform.

As a result, leaks of potentially sensitive information to hackers can happen, Krejdl added.

Protection necessary

Attackers can exploit the devices vulnerabilities by sending it a specially crafted request. Once the request is processed by the connected device, it can download and execute malware, giving hackers control of the device. In other cases, hackers can remotely log in to a connected device via the internet by using for example the devices default log-in credentials, Krejdl explained.

Most people dont change the default user name and password, or use log-in credentials that can easily be guessed, he added.

Once a hacker successfully logs in, they can again download and install malware and begin abusing the device.

One of the reasons why IoT devices can be vulnerable is that they are running on outdated software, experts agree.

Most of the connected devices dont even have a security solution and their manufacturers usually dont produce any security updates or new firmware, said Kuskov. This means there are millions and millions of potentially vulnerable devices  or maybe even devices that have already been compromised.

The best protection is to update the software running on all devices and change the log-in credentials used to access them.

This can also be done for routers, according to Krejdl.

Most home routers are thinly protected by common, easily hacked passwords, making routers an easy entry point for hackers to access the entire connected network, he concluded.
The companies often think that the standard systems are enough to protect them from threats.

Font size: A - | A +

The majority of companies in Slovakia use standard IT security systems to protect themselves from threats, such as anti-virus programmes and firewalls. On the other hand, only a few firms use more sophisticated security tools against modern threats like ransomware or other attacks resulting in the failure of websites and services.

Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement

This information stems from the recent survey carried out by the GfK agency in May among more than 100 IT managers and company owners. It suggests that while 93 percent of companies use the former group of security tools, the latter is used by only 38 percent of firms, the SITA newswire reported.

The companies often think that the standard systems are enough to protect them from threats and to meet the legal requirements, explains Roman Cupka, regional country manager of Flowmon Networks.

On the other hand, these tools fail to quickly and effectively respond to sophisticated threats, like the Wanna Cry attack or the so-called DDoS attacks that have recently put the websites of Fun Radio, Sme and RTVS out of operation, Cupka said, as quoted by SITA.

Companies have good experiences with both kinds of protection, the GfK survey showed. While 83 percent of respondents said they consider the ordinary systems beneficial, 80 percent said the same about the above-standard systems.

The survey also suggests that the importance of sophisticated security solutions is underestimated not only by their limited use, but also by weak investment plans that companies have been following for years. About 20 percent of companies plan to invest in above-standard IT systems in the following three-five years. The percentage of companies planning to invest in standard IT systems is slightly lower: only 16 percent.

In terms of the massive widening of the new types of threats that can avoid the ordinary preventive protection of the computer networks, this number is quite low, Cupka said, as quoted by SITA.

Yet, new legislation, such as the draft law on cyber security and the new regulations concerning the protection of personal data, will force many organisations to deal with preventive security measures and also utilise above-standard solutions to identify and respond to these threats as soon as possible, he added.

As many as 37 percent of organisations plan to use the new tools to protect themselves from harmful code in the following three-five years. They then want to implement new technologies for application security, for recording the activities of infrastructure and IT systems, their users and administrators, as well as tools for detection, collection and assessment of cyber events and to verify the identity of users planning to enter the information systems, SITA reported.
The following companies are subsidiares of Ingersoll Rand: 13125882 Canada Inc., 211 E. Russell Road LLC, 4458664 Canada Inc., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ASIA PTE. LTD., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES BORROWER S.C.A., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES LLC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES MIDDLE EAST FZE, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES SERVICES LIMITED, ASTRUM IT GmbH, Accudyne Industries Acquisition S.A r.l, Accudyne Industries Canada Inc., Accudyne Industries S.A r.l., Air Dimensions, Air Dimensions Inc., Albin Pump SAS, BOC Edwards Global Low pressure Air business, CISA S.p.A., Cameron-Centrifugal Compression, Comercial Ingersoll-Rand (Chile) Limitada, Comingersoll-Comercio E Industria De Equipamentos S.A., CompAir, CompAir (Hankook) Korea Co. Ltd., CompAir Acquisition (No. 2) Ltd., CompAir Acquisition Ltd., CompAir BroomWade Ltd., CompAir Finance Ltd., CompAir GmbH, CompAir Holdings Limited, CompAir International Trading (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CompAir Korea Ltd, CompAir South Africa (SA) (Pty) Ltd., Consolidated Distribution Holdings Ltd., DV Systems Inc., Dosatron International SAS, Emco Wheaton Gmbh, Emco Wheaton USA Inc, Enza Air Proprietary Limited, FlexEnergy Holdings LLC, Frigoblock Grosskopf Gmbh, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Investments Limited, GD First (UK) Ltd, GD German Holdings GmbH, GD German Holdings I Gmbh, GD German Holdings II GmbH, GD German Investments GmbH, GD Global Holdings II Inc., GD Global Holdings Inc., GD Global Holdings UK II Ltd., GD Global Ventures I B.V., GD Global Ventures II B.V., GD Global Ventures III B.V., GD Industrial Products Malaysia SDN. BHD., GD Investment KY, GD UK Finance Ltd., GPS Industries, Gardner Denver (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Austria GmbH, Gardner Denver Bad Neustadt Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Belgium NV, Gardner Denver Brasil Industria E Comercio de Maquinas Ltda., Gardner Denver CZ + SK sro, Gardner Denver Canada Corp (Canada), Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Limited, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Engineered Products India Private Limited, Gardner Denver FZE, Gardner Denver Finance II LLC, Gardner Denver Finance Inc & Co KG, Gardner Denver France SAS, Gardner Denver Group Svcs Ltd, Gardner Denver Holdings Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Ltd, Gardner Denver Iberica SL, Gardner Denver Inc., Gardner Denver Industries Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd., Gardner Denver International Inc., Gardner Denver International Ltd., Gardner Denver Investments Inc., Gardner Denver Italy Holdings S.r.L., Gardner Denver Japan Ltd., Gardner Denver Kirchhain Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Korea Ltd., Gardner Denver Ltd., Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Nash Brasil Industria E Comercio De Bombas Ltda, Gardner Denver Nash LLC, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd., Gardner Denver Nederland BV, Gardner Denver Nederland Investments B.V., Gardner Denver Oy, Gardner Denver Polska Sp z.o.o., Gardner Denver Pte. Ltd., Gardner Denver S.r.l., Gardner Denver Schopfheim GmbH, Gardner Denver Schopfheim Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Schweiz AG, Gardner Denver Slovakia s.r.o., Gardner Denver Sweden AB, Gardner Denver Taiwan Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH (f/k/a ILMVAC GmbH), Gardner Denver Thomas Inc., Gardner Denver Thomas Pneumatic Systems (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Garo Dott. Ing. Roberto Gabbioneta S.r.l., Ghh-Rand Schraubenkompressoren Gmbh, HASKEL EUROPE LTD., HASKEL HOLDINGS UK LIMITED, HASKEL INTERNATIONAL LLC, Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom, Haskel France SAS, Haskel Sistemas de Fluidos Espana S.R.L., Hibon Inc., Highspeed Newco LLC, Hingerose Limited, ILMVAC (UK) Ltd., ILS Innovative Labor Systeme, ILS Inovative Laborsysteme GmbH, INGERSOLL RAND ITS JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHANG ZHOU) TOOLS CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHINA) INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND CHINA LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE MAQUINAS E EQUIPAMENTOS INDUSTRIAIS LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND DE PUERTO RICO INC., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL COMPANY B.V., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL SP. Z O.O., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL U.S. INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PHILIPPINES INC., INGERSOLL-RAND SPAIN S.A., INGERSOLL-RAND U.S. HOLDCO INC., IR HPS Holdco. Inc., ITO Emniyet, Ingersoll Rand Cyprus Investments Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Finance LLC, Ingersoll Rand Global Investments LLC, Ingersoll Rand Global Ventures LLC, Ingersoll Rand Hong Kong Investments Limited, Ingersoll Rand Inc., Ingersoll Rand Investments (SG) Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Investments B.V., Ingersoll Rand Schweiz Investments Gmbh, Ingersoll Rand Technology R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (Australia) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (China) Investment Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Guilin) Tools Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Hong Kong) Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (India) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Air Solutions Hibon Sarl, Ingersoll-Rand Beteiligungs Und Grundstucksverwaltungs Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Colombia S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited (Uk), Ingersoll-Rand Company South Africa (Pty) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Cz S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand De Mexico S.A. De C.V., Ingersoll-Rand Equipements De Production S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Industrial Ireland Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International (India) Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Italia S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Italiana Manufacturing S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Korea Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Korea Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Lux Investments II S.A R.I., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Investments S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Industrial Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Machinery (Shanghai) Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Malaysia Co. Sdn. Bhd., Ingersoll-Rand S.A. De C.V., Ingersoll-Rand Services And Trading Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Singapore Enterprises Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand South East Asia (Pte.) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Superay Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services S.A.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Technologies And Services Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technology R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Tool Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Trading Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Vietnam Company Limited, Instrum Rand JSC, Interflex Datensysteme, Ir Canada Holdings Ulc, Ir Canada Sales & Service Ulc, Ir France Sas, Kryptonite corp, Lawrence Factor Inc., LeROI, LeRoi International Inc, MILTON ROY (HONG KONG) LIMITED, MILTON ROY (UK) LIMITED, MILTON ROY EUROPA B.V., MILTON ROY EUROPE SAS, MILTON ROY INDUSTRIAL (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., MILTON ROY LLC, MILTON ROY US PURCHASER INC., MP Pumps Inc., Maximum AG Technologies Inc., Maximus Solutions, Mb Air Systems Limited, Nash Elmo, Officina Meccaniche Industriali Srl, Oina VV, Oina VV Aktiebolag, Plurifilter D.O.O., Pt Ingersoll-Rand Indonesia, Robuschi, Runtech Systems, Runtech Systems (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Runtech Systems Inc., Runtech Systems OY, SEEPEX, Seepex (M) SDN, Seepex Australia Pty Ltd, Seepex Beteiligungs-Gesellschaft mit Beschrankter Haftung, Seepex France S.a.r.l., Seepex GmbH, Seepex Inc., Seepex India Private Ltd., Seepex Italia SRL, Seepex Japan Co. Ltd., Seepex Nordic A/S, Seepex OOO, Seepex Pumps (Shanghia) Co. Ltd., Seepex UK Ltd., Shanghai CompAir Compressors Co Ltd, Shanghai Compressors & Blowers Ltd., Shanghai Ingersoll-Rand Compressor Limited, Shenzhen Bocom System Engineering Co., Superay, Syltone, TIWR Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, Tamrotor Marine Comp AS Norway, Tecno Matic Europe s.r.o., Thomas Industries Inc., Trane Technologies, Tri-Continent Scientific Inc., Vacuum and Blower Systems division, Welch Vacuum Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zaxe Technologies Inc., Zeks Compressed Air Solutions Llc, Zinsser Analytic, Zinsser Analytik GmbH, Zinsser NA Inc., and crayon interface.

Read More
DUBAI (Reuters) - Bahrain accused Qatar on Monday of illegally seizing three boats with 16 sailors on board, state news agency BNA reported, worsening an already deeply troubled diplomatic situation in the region. Coast Guard Commander Commodore Alaa Siyadi told BNA the boats were seized over the past three days. The report gave no details on the boats or where they were seized. Qatar confirmed it detained fishing boats after they entered its territorial waters illegally, and said the sailors will be released soon. Siyadi said the seizure raised to 15 the number of boats seized, and the number of sailors in Qatari custody to 20, adding that some of the boat seizures date back to 2009, BNA reported. "All unauthorised fishing boats receive a warning to leave Qatari waters, and if they are non-compliant, they are referred to the competent authorities," a source at Qatar's Interior Ministry said. "The crew will be released within three days, while the ships will be detained until the court makes a decision." Bahrain, together with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, imposed diplomatic, trade and travel sanctions on Qatar in June, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies. (Reporting by Ahmed Tolba in Cairo and Alex Cornwell in Doha,; Writing by Sami Aboudi; Editing by Robin Pomeroy and Dan Grebler)
BEIRUT (Reuters) - A booby-trapped motorbike exploded in the northeastern Syrian city of Qamishli on Monday, killing a child and wounding six other people, the monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported. Syrian state TV said a motorbike had exploded and reported that four people were wounded but did not immediately mention deaths. Qamishli is in an area mostly under the control of Kurdish security forces. Bomb blasts, often claimed by Islamic State, have occurred in Qamishli and nearby Hasaka city, both under Kurdish control, but have been rare in the last year. The Kurdish YPG militia is spearheading a U.S.-backed offensive to drive Islamic State out of the jihadist group's remaining strongholds in eastern Syria, including its former de facto Syrian capital, Raqqa. Islamic State also reported the bombing via its online Amaq news agency, saying it had targeted a vehicle belonging to Kurdish security forces. It did not explicitly claim the attack. (Reporting by John Davison, additional reporting by Ahmed Tolba in Cairo; editing by Larry King)
Alex Morgan pulled two children and their mother from a car (SWNS)

The Royal Marine who was the first on the scene of a horrific accident on the M5 has spoken about the harrowing aftermath of the crash.

Alex Morgan, 27, described seeing body parts scattered everywhere when his girlfriend Hayley OConnor, a sales office manager, stopped suddenly in front of the accident in Gloucestershire on Saturday.

The Royal Marine leapt straight out of the vehicle after seeing a dark car lying upside down in the motorway and pulled two screaming children and their mother from one of the cars.

Alex said: For work you get a bit of experience and training in first aid, but this was by far the worst road traffic collision that I have seen in this country.

It was harrowing. Ive seen some dark things during my time, but you never expect to see something like this in the UK.

Thats what was so shocking  that it came from nowhere, and that it was so close to home.

Four people were killed in the horror crash (SWNS)

I was texting at the time, and Hayley just suddenly put the brakes on and put her hand over her mouth as we came up to the wreckage.

She was stunned.

Describing how he leapt into action as soon as the car stopped, Alex went on: For me, instinct just kicked in straightaway.

MOST POPULAR STORIES FROM YAHOO UK:

North Korea will be destroyed if reckless behaviour continues, says US ambassador

Police admit they may have to work with vigilante paedophile hunters

Parents of boy, six, say hes not allowed into after-school clubs  because theyre not on benefits

The entire Internet is mocking ISIS for claiming the Parsons Green terror attack

Taxi driver locked teenage girls in cab and drove them to police station because they were 60p short

I was the first one to go over to the car to see what was going on, because the accident had only really just happened at that point.

The children in the back seat were in floods of tears. They were clearly very scared about what was happening.

I couldnt put a figure on how old they are, but they were certainly young children. I would say that the girl was ten-ish, and the lad about 11.

Story continues

Royal Marine Alex (centre) leapt to action after pulling up at the scene of the crash (SWNS)

We took the decision to get them out of the car straight away, so that they could get some treatment, and to calm them down.

Because of the condition that their parents were in, I decided to take them out in such a way that they couldnt see the front of the car  by the boot, effectively.

They were led about 10 or 15 metres away.

The front of the car was on fire, and we had to go and get some fire extinguishers from a nearby caravan to put them out.

The woman looked to be unresponsive, but when I checked her pulse she clearly had one.

I could tell straightaway that the dad was dead. Me and some other helpers looked for a pulse, but you could just tell by the way that he his body was contorted that he was gone.

The M5 was closed following the accident (SWNS)

The woman kept on moving in and out of consciousness, and because the car kept lighting up again, we had to get her out of there, which she did.

She was bleeding from her nose, and looked to be in a really really bad way. Im still very concerned for her now.

A doctor was at the scene and able to look after the mum.

When the boy came out, Hayley went over to comfort him, and a few went over to the girl.

It was impossible to talk to either of them. They were fading in and out of shock.

People were just trying to reassure them that everything would be ok.

Someone asked me to check out the other car that was involved, but I could tell immediately that there were deaths in there.

The motorway has now partially reopened (SWNS)

The car was completely smashed up and ruined, and you could body parts had become detached.

There were just these body parts scattered everywhere. It was horrendous.

Hayley was really shaken up by the whole thing. Shes never seen anything like that before, and it clearly hit her very hard.

She wasnt able to drive the rest of the way, and to be honest just being in the car was pretty tough after youve seen something like that.

Weve had to drive back home today, and thats been very hard. I think its something that will haunt both of us for a long time.

The M5 motorway has partially reopened following the crash, that took place on Saturday afternoon between junctions 15 and 14.
Haley: something is going to have to be done about North Korea

The US ambassador to the United Nations has warned that North Korea will be destroyed if it continues its reckless behaviour.

Nikki Haley said that President Donald Trumps fire and fury comments last month were not an empty threat.

On Sunday, she said the UN Security Council has run out of options following North Koreas recent nuclear tests and missile launches.

We have pretty much exhausted all the things that we can do at the security council at this point, she told CNN.

Were trying every other possibility that we have but theres a whole lot of military options on the table, she said.

I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 17, 2017

US national security adviser HR McMaster said that Trump been very clear about the option of launching a military strike against North Korea and that all options are on the table.

He said that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is going to have to give up his nuclear weapons because the president has said hes not going to tolerate this regime threatening the United States and our citizens with a nuclear weapon.

If North Korea keeps on with this reckless behaviour, if the United States has to defend itself or defend its allies in any way, North Korea will be destroyed and we all know that and none of us want that, Haley added.

None of us want war. But we also have to look at the fact that you are dealing with someone who is being reckless, irresponsible, and is continuing to give threats not only to the United States, but to all their allies, so something is going to have to be done.

On Sunday, Trump taunted Kim Jong-un  referring to him as Rocket Man  by saying the countrys citizens were queuing for petrol because of sanctions.

Story continues

He tweeted: I spoke with President Moon [Jae-in] of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!

The UN security council voted to reduce petrol exports and restrict crude oil supplies to North Korea in response to its sixth nuclear test, the most powerful so far.

MOST POPULAR STORIES FROM YAHOO UK:

North Korea will be destroyed if reckless behaviour continues, says US ambassador

Police admit they may have to work with vigilante paedophile hunters

Parents of boy, six, say hes not allowed into after-school clubs  because theyre not on benefits

The entire Internet is mocking ISIS for claiming the Parsons Green terror attack

Taxi driver locked teenage girls in cab and drove them to police station because they were 60p short

Haley said sanctions had caused North Korea to be cut off from the world, but there is little evidence of queues for petrol in the country as Trump suggests.

Secretary of state Rex Tillerson said he was waiting the Kim Jong-un to engage in constructive, productive talks.

All they need to do to let us know theyre ready to talk is to just stop these tests, stop these provocative actions, and lets lower the threat level and the rhetoric, he said.

On Friday, North Korea fired a missile over Japans northern Hokkaido island, which landed in the Pacific ocean.

These repeated provocations on the part of North Korea are impermissible and we protest in the strongest words, Japans chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga said.




MOSCOW (Reuters) - Moscow's ambassador to the United Nations said the United States and Ukraine have told Russia they will not work on a Russian proposal to deploy United Nations peacekeepers in eastern Ukraine, the TASS news agency reported. Russian President Vladimir Putin this month suggested armed U.N. peacekeepers be deployed to eastern Ukraine to help protect ceasefire monitors from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and to help end a conflict between Ukrainian troops and Russia-backed separatists, which has killed more than 10,000 people since 2014. Putin originally said the peacekeepers should be deployed along the line of contact between Ukrainian government forces and pro-Russian separatists, but later said they could also be deployed in other areas where OSCE inspectors work. However, Washington and Kiev also want peacekeepers to be deployed along those parts of Ukraine's border with Russia which Kiev does not control. TASS cited Vasily Nebenzia, Moscow's U.N. ambassador, as saying on Monday the United States and Ukraine had formally told Russia in the United Nations Security Council that they were unwilling to work on Moscow's draft resolution on the subject because they had too many objections to it. "The U.S. and Ukrainian delegations said after the first discussion that they were not ready to work on the (Russian) text in future," Nebenzia was cited as saying. "(They said) they had significant objections and that, possibly, the Ukrainians would have a counter proposal to deploy peacekeepers to Donbass (eastern Ukraine)." Moscow was not abandoning its own proposal, however, said Nebenzia, saying it would continue to advance it when the conditions were right. Ukraine has advocated an alternative plan that would ban any Russian nationals from taking part in a peacekeeping mission which it wants deployed along the part of its border with Russia which it does not control, an idea Moscow has so far baulked at. (Reporting by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Christian Lowe)
The United Nations is calling for an investigation after more than 30 people, said to be refugees from Burundi, were killed in clashes with security forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Congolese police and soldiers opened fire as the migrants protested plans to send some of them home from the town of Kamanyola in the east of the country, activists say. Maman Sidikou, head of the local UN peacekeeping team, MONUSCO, condemned the violence in which more than 100 people were injured. .@UN Refugees agency shocked & saddened by violent deaths in #DRCongo; those killed likely to include #refugees https://t.co/pFs6FJc23s UN News (UN_News_Centre) 16 septembre 2017 == This situation is deplorable when we see how our fellows were killed like beasts, said refugee Jimmy Nemeyimana. The government is saying nothing. How can that be? They threatened to kill us if we do not want to return home to Burundi. Justice must be done. The death of a soldier during the protests is said to have triggered the bloodbath. But a Congolese government spokesman denied those killed were refugees, saying clashes broke out when assailants from an unidentified armed group attacked an official building. More than 400,000 refugees have fled Burundi  including 40,000 to neighbouring Congo  since violence erupted in April 2015 when President Pierre Nkurunziza said he would seek a third term in office, a move his opponents said was unconstitutional. with Reuters
CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela's opposition blamed President Nicolas Maduro's government on Monday for the death of a sick activist in detention, saying he was framed and then denied medical help. Carlos Garcia, a local legislator in western Apure state, suffered a stroke in August after being arrested in late 2016 during protests and having money planted on him, his party said. Two days before his death on Sunday, Garcia was granted house arrest but was never transported home, the Justice First party added in a statement, saying the accusations were invented and he was never allowed adequate medical help. "He should never have been in prison and should never have died at the hands of a repressive government whose hands today more than ever are stained with blood," said the party's secretary general, Tomas Guanipa. Venezuela's opposition parties accuse Maduro, the 54-year-old successor of Hugo Chavez, of being a dictator and maintaining hundreds of political prisoners on trumped-up charges. He denies that, saying all activists behind bars are there on legitimate charges, including for "terrorism" and coup-plotting against his socialist government. Venezuela's Supreme Court said Garcia had been detained on suspicion of theft, instigation of disorder, and arson. He had received "appropriate medical attention" in hospital for a condition of "immuno-deficient infectious disease," which may have led to the fatal brain problem, it added in a statement. "We request the nation's political leaders to abstain from giving irresponsible opinions with false information intended to cause alarm in the population. On the contrary, we must give Christian respect to this Venezuelan citizen's memory." (Reporting by Diego Ore; Writing by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Jonathan Oatis)
Photo credit: Getty Images

From Harpers Bazaar UK

Photo credit: Getty Images

Donald and Melania Trump aren't exactly known for their affectionate warmth towards each other, but their latest public interaction was more awkward than most.

This weekend, the US First Lady introduced her husband at military facility Joint Base Andrews in Maryland ahead of him giving a speech. After finishing her intro, the president slowly walked towards her and shook her hand - like married couples so often do. He then told her to "go sit down", and gave her a gentle push off the stage.

While an impassioned kiss would not have been necessary, a handshake does seem like an oddly formal ritual to do with a wife. The awkward moment has not gone unnoticed on Twitter as it fuels speculation that the couple's marriage might not be authentic.
What is Constitution Day?

Constitution Day became a national observance in 2004, when Senator Robert Byrd passed a bill designating September 17 as the day for citizens to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution and learn more about our founding document. Senator Byrd once said, "Our ideals of freedom, set forth and realized in our Constitution, are our greatest export to the world." He added the Constitution Day clause to his 2004 federal spending bill because he believed that all citizens should know about their rights as outlined in the Constitution. This clause mandates the teaching of the Constitution in schools that receive federal funds, as well as federal agencies. Visit the National Constitution Center website and learn more about Constitution Day.
Even if you have not read Bram Stoker's "Dracula," most everyone is familiar with the vampiric title character and the various pop culture interpretations  including more than 200 films  since the Gothic horror novel was published in 1897. However, few know about the author, an Irishman who worked as a business manager for a London theater and wrote novels on the side.

On Sept. 26-28, the University of North Georgia (UNG) Visiting Author Series will bring one of Stoker's blood relatives to campus  Dacre Stoker, the great-grand-nephew of Bram Stoker and co-editor of "The Lost Journal of Bram Stoker: The Dublin Years." He also is the best-selling co-author of "Dracula the Un-Dead," the official, Stoker-family endorsed sequel to "Dracula."

Dr. Leverett Butts, associate professor of English at UNG, invited Stoker to visit UNG after meeting him at a conference.

"I met Dacre earlier this year when we both participated on panels for AnachroCon," Butts said. AnachroCon is an annual conference dedicated to history-related interests. "After discussing his editing work for his great-grand-uncle Bram's journals and his own creative work and research, I thought he'd be a good fit for our program."

Stokers compelling and informative keynote presentation, Stoker on Stoker: The Mysteries Behind the Writing of Dracula, weaves together the details of Draculas history with Stoker family lore, and Bram Stokers life in Dublin and London. Then it separates fact from popular fiction, revealing the truth about all things Stoker and Dracula. Illustrated with Dacres own collection of never-before-published, and seldom-seen historic images, Stoker on Stoker is a glimpse behind the scenes of the life and writing of one of the least known authors and one of the world's most famous books.

UNG's Visiting Author Series brings contemporary writers such as Stoker to UNG to discuss their work with students and the community.

"This will give students an opportunity to see what is involved as far as research and writing discipline in putting together a publishable manuscript," Butts said. "They will also have the opportunity to ask a published author questions of their own."

Stoker will speak at all five UNG communities.

Sept. 26, noon: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center

Sept. 26, 7 p.m.: UNG's Dahlonega Campus, Hoag Auditorium

26, 7 p.m.: UNG's Dahlonega Campus, Hoag Auditorium Sept. 27, noon: UNG's Cumming Campus, Room 125

27, noon: UNG's Cumming Campus, Room 125 Sept. 27, 7 p.m.: UNG's Gainesville Campus, Nesbitt 3110-A

27, 7 p.m.: UNG's Gainesville Campus, Nesbitt 3110-A Sept. 28, noon: UNG's Oconee Campus, Room 522

All presentations are free and open to the public.

Stoker, who has spoken across the U.S. and around the world, has consulted and appeared in recent film documentaries about vampires in literature and popular culture. He hosts tours to Transylvania to explore both the life and times of the historic Vlad Dracula lll and the locations where Bram Stoker set his famous novel.

Since its inception in 1996, the Visiting Author Series, which is sponsored by UNG's Department of English, has included poets, novelists, memoirists, and non-fiction writers.
Cardinal Health, Inc. operates as an integrated healthcare services and products company in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and internationally. It provides customized solutions for hospitals, healthcare systems, pharmacies, ambulatory surgery centers, clinical laboratories, physician offices, and patients in the home. The company operates in two segments, Pharmaceutical and Medical. The Pharmaceutical segment distributes branded and generic pharmaceutical, specialty pharmaceutical, and over-the-counter healthcare and consumer products. The segment also provides services to pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare providers for specialty pharmaceutical products; operates nuclear pharmacies and radiopharmaceutical manufacturing facilities; repackages generic pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter healthcare products; and offers medication therapy management and patient outcomes services to hospitals, other healthcare providers, and payers, as well as provides pharmacy management services to hospitals. The Medical segment manufactures, sources, and distributes Cardinal Health branded medical, surgical, and laboratory products and devices that include exam and surgical gloves; needles, syringe, and sharps disposals; compressions; incontinences; nutritional delivery products; wound care products; single-use surgical drapes, gowns, and apparels; fluid suction and collection systems; urology products; operating room supply products; and electrode product lines. The segment also distributes a range of national brand products, including medical, surgical, and laboratory products; provides supply chain services and solutions to hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, clinical laboratories, and other healthcare providers; and assembles and sells sterile, and non-sterile procedure kits. The company was incorporated in 1979 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ohio.
If youre a community bank still based in New Mexico, there will naturally be businesses knocking at your door for financial advice and loans. But sometimes, due to a banks own regulations and requirements, some businesses wont qualify for certain loans, and they must be turned away.

Instead of giving up on the startups, nonprofits and small businesses that may fall outside a banks boundaries, institutions such as Los Alamos National Bank have found a way to keep them in New Mexicos financial ecosystem.

Los Alamos National Bank CEO John S. Gulas said it only makes sense for the bank to help keep the overall economy as healthy as possible. For Gulas and LANB  the largest community bank in the state  one solution has been an ongoing partnership with The Loan Fund. The nonprofit community development financial institution works with businesses and nonprofits that dont qualify for a traditional loans.

LANB recently made a $500,000, no-interest loan to the organization, up significantly from a previous $150,000 loan. Its a serious commitment in a relationship that has thrived since 2011. And its one that effectively makes LANB the largest bank investor in The Loan Fund.

Our increase was primarily based on The Loan Funds history, Gulas said.

The history Gulas is referring to is The Loan Funds more than 25 years as a community lender that has provided more than $72 million in loans throughout New Mexico to financially underserved businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofits  often those that typically are unable to get financing through traditional lending sources. Those loans and lines of credit have helped create or preserve more than 8,800 jobs. The Loan Fund also offers consulting and training to its clients.

The LANB relationship with The Loan Fund is not only based on history, Gulas said, but trust.

It is our hope that by supporting their mission, additional opportunities will be given to those who do not qualify for traditional loans, Gulas said. The relationship only helps to strengthen the states economy by preserving and creating jobs, which in turn supports the states banks and other institutions, Gulas said.

After working with The Loan Fund, clients often return to explore options available from traditional banks such as LANB.

The Loan Funds clients are a diverse group. They include businesses in industries such as health care, education and construction. Restaurants, nonprofits, trucking companies and others are among its clients.

(The Loan Fund supports) over 30 minority- and women-owned businesses and startups, Gulas said. Its a broad breadth of organizations.

Gulas added that LANB provides similar assistance to Homewise, the Santa Fe-based homeownership and financial counseling organization.

We have a long history of supporting charitable organizations  300 or more, said Gulas.

LANB has six locations across the state. For more information, visit https://lanb.com. To learn more about The Loan Fund, visit http://loanfund.org.

Finance New Mexico connects individuals and businesses with skills and funding resources for their business or idea. To learn more, go to www.FinanceNewMexico.org.
[September 17, 2017] Klas Telecom's TRX Connected Transportation Platform Makes Headway and is Featured at Railway Interchange 2017

Klas Telecom's (News - Alert) TRX Connected Transportation Platform has made tremendous headway over the last few months in being selected for a number of prestigious IoT and multi-partner railway connectivity initiatives such as SWIFT (Superfast Wi-Fi In-carriage for Future Travel), Secure COnnected Trustable Things (SCOTT) and the new Canberra Light Rail project in Australia. TRX will also be featured this week at Railway Interchange 2017 - the largest combined railway exhibition and technical conference in North America. As part of the initial phase of SWIFT, a Cisco (News - Alert)-led project to create a new type of trackside fibre technology that delivers reliable, high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity for optimum passenger experience on UK rail, Klas Telecom provided the onboard communications gateway and server and KlasOS software. For project SCOTT, an effort involving 57 key partners from 12 countries that is developing comprehensive cost-efficient solutions for wireless, end-to-end secure, trustworthy connectivity and interoperability at Technology Readiness Level 6-7 to bridge the last mile to market mplementation, Klas Telecom's TRX will be used as the preferred onboard gateway, providing a high speed backbone connecting all IP devices on trains.



"Construction of stage one of the multi-phase Canberra Light Rail Network is underway, and we're very excited to be a part of the new infrastructure," Klas Telecom Strategic Development Executive Arnold Allen said. "We're confident TRX is going to help Transport Canberra meet their goal of providing incentives for people to use public transport in order to ease traffic congestion as the city continues to grow. TRX will be implemented as the onboard wireless security gateway to deliver Transport Canberra's ridership with free secure Wi-Fi during travel." To see how TRX is raising the standard for networking performance and security in both the freight and passenger rail market, visit booth #1950 in the Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. (RSSI) hall at the Railway Interchange exhibition held at the Indianapolis Convention Center Sunday, September 17 - Tuesday, September 19th. You can see live demos of the product and engineers will be available to brief TRX's capabilities. For more information about Klas Telecom and TRX at Railway Interchange, see the company's event information page.

About TRX

In a single, easy to manage solution, Klas Telecom's TRX Connected Transportation Platform enables virtualization of multiple onboard communications systems, services and third party technologies, and can be remotely operated, maintained and adapted throughout the system's lifecycle. TRX provides an onboard communications gateway, router/server, range of switches and a comprehensive service enablement platform. TRX delivers connectivity for the passenger, the wayside, the rail yard and the train through a robust infrastructure that delivers numerous services such as: on-board surveillance and security, fleet management, passenger infotainment and Wi-Fi, and collaboration capabilities. Klas Telecom's connected railway solutions seek to lower customers' total cost of ownership by delivering components at the network edge with the appropriate packaging, relevant certifications, expanded product lifespan and minimal impact on training and enterprise architecture. About Klas Telecom

Founded in 1991, Klas Telecom is an engineering and design company with over 25 years of experience developing innovative communications solutions for use in austere environments where low size, weight, power and ruggedization are required. With over 80% of the company dedicated to technology development, Klas Telecom is able to stay on the forefront of the deployable and tactical communications market. Klas Telecom operates in the U.S. and international defense, first responder, disaster relief, law enforcement and transportation markets. The company employs staff across four offices located in Washington, DC; Herndon, VA; Tampa, FL; and Dublin, Ireland. www.klastelecom.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170917005057/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Last month, the Journal reported that Petes Frites, a Nob Hill burger joint, had closed its doors.

Welcome its replacement: Rustic Star Burgers will soon take over the 1,800-square-foot property at Central and Tulane NE.

Owner Kelly Adams said it is a nearly perfect space. Petes was a burger place also. Its kind of a turnkey situation. All of the stuff is still here.

An 800-square-foot basement that is being used for storage and refrigeration will be converted to more seating at some point.

Adams said he isnt worried about the Albuquerque Rapid Transit project. Hopefully, it will bring some business, Adams said.

He said he plans to continue operating the original Green Jeans location.

Expect a Nob Hill opening for the burger spot in roughly two weeks.

Adams and business partner Johnnah Torres began Rustic Star Burgers in 2011 when they purchased a food truck. In 2015, they converted to their brick-and-mortar establishment at Green Jeans Farmery.

Adams said Rustic Star will celebrate its second anniversary in mid-November.

TFK Smokehouse

Another restaurant with food truck roots will soon be opening its doors. TFK Smokehouse is moving into the space formerly occupied by Kaseys at 400 Washington SE, near Zuni.

Kaseys closed in June when owners Casey Armstrong-Lange and her husband, Gary, moved to Denver to seek medical treatment for their soon-to-be-born child.

TFK Smokehouse owners Katie Calico and Chris White, a former sous chef at Slate Street Cafe, are now taking over, and family means just as much to them.

We were actually prompted to move away from the food truck because of our growing family, Calico said. I mean, we operate year round, so when its 32 degrees outside, its 32 degrees all day.

The couple have a newborn, as well as a 14-year-old daughter who began helping with the food truck when she was 9.

The transition from food truck to brick-and-mortar comes with other benefits as well.

Its a little overwhelming but very exciting, Calico said. I mean, the refrigerator is larger than our entire food truck.

Calico and White are hoping to open the 2,500-square-foot space by the end of the month. In nice weather, Calico said TFK Smokehouse will open up the tree-shaded outdoor patio.

Its all about the smokehouse concept, Calico said. We smoke everything from prime rib to pastrami to hand-rolled pork meatballs, but we also do traditional barbecue.

Lolli & Pops

Coronado Center is getting a sweet new resident. The San Francisco-based Lolli & Pops is billed as a premium purveyor of candies and confections, according to a news release.

This is its first location in the Southwest; the company is planning to open 40 more nationwide by the end of 2018.

Lolli & Pops staff members sport bow ties and boat hats, and the stores are covered in intricate calligraphy. The aim is to create an old-fashioned sweet shoppe aesthetic, according to the release.

The new 3,500-square-foot store takes up part of the space occupied by Sears before it shrank its presence at Coronado. Many malls across the country have had to search for ways to reinvent spaces as large department store anchors have begun closing.

We are thrilled to bring Lolli & Pops to Albuquerque and to be a part of the renewal of the Coronado Center, said Sid Gupta, company CEO and founder.

The candy store first opened in 2012 by the father-and-son team of Raj and Sid Gupta. Its flagship store is in San Francisco, and Lolli & Pops now has 39 stores nationwide.

In other news:

 Dickeys Barbecue Pit, a Texas-based restaurant franchise, is planning to expand its presence in New Mexico with the help of franchisees David Montoya and Soleille Lopez. Dickeys has five locations in New Mexico under different franchise owners.

Montoya and Lopez have one location in Colorado but have been eager to open Dickeys locations in their home state, they said in a news release.

They are planning three locations, but addresses have not been determined. The first is slated to open in Albuquerque next spring, with another in Albuquerque by late 2018 and the third to open in Santa Fe in early 2019.

 Forgehdaboudit Pizza of Deming continues to stack up the awards. The family-owned business won several pizza awards in March, and now it can brag about its wings as well.

Forgehdaboudit Pizza took home a first-place trophy for its Maple Bacon Dry Rub and a third-place trophy for its X-Hot Sauce at the 2017 National Buffalo Wing Festival in Buffalo, N.Y.

Forgehdaboudit is planning to move into the Las Cruces market in 2018.

 Firehouse Subs, a Florida-based national sandwich restaurant chain, opened at a new location near Winrock on Sept. 6. The restaurant is in the stand-alone building in the northwest corner of the parking lot, near Sauce Pizza & Wine. This is the fourth location in Albuquerque. The restaurant is owned by franchisee Lucas Conner, who owns two other Firehouse locations in Albuquerque and one in Santa Fe.

 Shoe Palace, a national shoe store chain, is opening a second location in Coronado Center. The store already has a space for mens shoes, but the new one will be for womens and childrens footwear. The retailer will take over some of the space left when Sears downsized at Coronado. An opening date has not been announced.
New Mexico was a late-comer to trade through the North American Free Trade Agreement, but its made up for a lot of lost ground in the past decade.

Exports to Mexico and Canada represented barely 16 percent of the states total exports worldwide in 2006, more than a decade after NAFTA took effect. But last year, those countries accounted for 47 percent of New Mexicos exports, reflecting the states aggressive efforts to take advantage of NAFTA in the past 10 years.

Mexico absorbs the lions share, with exports there peaking at $1.68 billion in 2015, up from just $258 million 10 years before. That robust growth has converted Santa Teresa in southern New Mexico into a bustling industrial border hub, while providing new growth opportunities for businesses in other major cities throughout the state.

Exports to Canada also grew markedly after 2006, from $199 million that year to a peak of $352 million in 2011. But in contrast to Mexico, sales to Canada have fallen back recently to a low of $139 million in 2016.

The decline may in part reflect the crash in world oil prices since 2014, which crippled Canadian oil and gas production and shrank the market for energy-related equipment from New Mexico companies, said Robert Queen, director of the U.S. Commerce Departments New Mexico Export Assistance Center in El Paso. The high value of the U.S. currency in recent years also likely contributed to the decline, because a strong dollar makes exports to other countries more expensive.

Trade through NAFTA helped push New Mexicos overall export income to an all-time peak of $3.8 billion in 2014, although sales worldwide have fallen a bit since then.
Business remains strong for international shipping company J.H. Rose Logistics in southern New Mexico, despite all the uncertainty swirling around the future of the North American Free Trade Agreement.

The company, which manages shipments for businesses to and from Mexico at the Santa Teresa industrial park along the border, reports little change in customer demand since the U.S. opened negotiations in August to modify the 23-year-old trade accord with Mexico and Canada. But company partner James K. Robinson says clients on both sides of the international divide are holding off on most business expansion until they see the outcome of NAFTA negotiations.

Nobodys willing to go out on a limb and spend a lot of money until they know whats happening, Robinson said. There are a lot of concerns. Nobody is really willing to pull the trigger on investments right now.

Like J.H. Rose, most trade professionals and export-import companies say business continues as usual along the border despite the NAFTA renegotiation, which marks the first effort to update the accord since the trilateral agreement launched in 1994. Some are even optimistic the talks could modernize and improve the pact, strengthening cross-border trade and investment.

But President Donald Trumps ongoing threats to pull out of NAFTA if negotiations dont go his way throw a wild card into everything, casting a pervasive cloud over the ability of trade representatives to reach a new agreement.

A lot of it is negotiating tactics (by the U.S.) to soften or scare the other side, and the other NAFTA partners understand that, said Jerry Pacheco, executive director of the International Business Accelerator at Santa Teresa. But what scares me is if all the rhetoric from Trump gets him backed into a corner where he sees nothing truly substantive come out of negotiations and then feels pressured to cancel the agreement in a kind of shoot-first, ask-about-repercussions-later approach. That does worry me.

Aggravating concerns is the difficulty of some issues being raised in negotiations, such as indications the U.S. wants to increase the amount of domestically manufactured components that go into automobiles and other products to qualify for tariff-free imports from its neighbors.

The Trump administration may push for that to bring jobs back to the U.S. But altering NAFTAs rules of origin could undermine supply chains that often rely on components from outside the region to keep production costs down, raising strong opposition from Mexico and Canada.

Other big issues include efforts to raise workplace standards and pollution controls in Mexico to lower its competitive advantages, plus proposals to eliminate or modify a NAFTA arbitration panel that allows investors to circumvent local courts in trade disputes. Those are difficult things to negotiate, especially with competing pressures coming from industry, labor and environmental groups in all three countries.

NAFTA negotiators have met two times since mid-August, with a third round of negotiations scheduled for later this month.

But uncertainty reigns, since few details have publicly emerged about specific proposals under discussion.

They havent announced anything of substance yet, which makes me a little apprehensive, Pacheco said.

Most local trade professionals expect the negotiating teams to resolve their differences given the huge costs at stake if the U.S. were to exit NAFTA. The accord regulates more than $500 billion in annual trade between the U.S. and Mexico.

Trade a boon for NM

New Mexico has benefited a lot. Southbound exports grew more than fourfold in the past decade, from $376 million in 2007 to $1.58 billion last year. Mexico now accounts for more than 40 percent of the states total annual sales worldwide.

Thats helped build Santa Teresa into a bustling hub for trade with Mexico. About 60 companies and 4,000 employees are now located in the zones three industrial parks, with a fourth park under construction.

Hundreds of businesses elsewhere have also launched or expanded trade south of the border, particularly in Albuquerque, where local and state government are working to build closer trade relations with Mexico. That includes opening a trade office in Mexico City in 2014, providing technical assistance for businesses interested in Mexico and organizing frequent trade missions there.

Randy Trask, manager of the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Trade Alliance, said the NAFTA talks could improve lingering trade issues if addressed by negotiators, such as making customs more efficient.

New NAFTA clauses to regulate e-commerce, and efforts to open Mexican markets to more U.S. sales of energy-related products and investment, could also favor New Mexico, said Robert Queen, director of the U.S. Commerce Departments New Mexico Export Assistance Center in El Paso.

There are several New Mexico energy companies actively engaged in selling oil and gas equipment into Mexico that would benefit, Queen said.

Preparing for the worst

In general, however, most businesses are less concerned with the details of negotiations than simply seeing a successful agreement that ends speculation about a U.S. pullout. Its the lingering concern about talks breaking down altogether that raises concern.

Few expect that to happen, but trade officials on both sides of the border are prepared.

New Mexico, for example, would concentrate on recruiting businesses in Mexico to the state.

If that happens, a lot of companies would need to consider setting up operations in the U.S., and many would seek locations close to the border, so wed focus on recruitment, Trask said. Thats not by any means what we want to see, but wed work to capture our share of jobs coming back to the U.S.

Mexico, meanwhile, is aggressively exploring trade with other countries in Latin America, Asia and elsewhere, said Carlos Yates, state director in Chihuahua for the Mexican governments trade and investment promotion agency ProMexico.

Many businesses are very interested in market diversification, Yates said. We have alternative markets for many products in South America, and countries like China and India are seeking closer trade relations with Mexico.

For now, New Mexico trade with its southern neighbor remains robust, and some new businesses have even set up shop at Santa Teresa in recent months, Pacheco said. That includes the refrigerated distribution company Valley Cold Storage, which moved into a new 107,000-square-foot building in June, and FedEx, which occupied a 215,000-square-foot space in July, bringing 80 new jobs to the park.

But many remain anxious about the future of NAFTA.

Without NAFTA in place, it could lock us out of the Mexican market, said Ron Corio, CEO of Albuquerque-based solar tracker manufacturer Array Technologies. We import and export products to and from Mexico. It would directly affect our ability to win projects there if we could no longer export products tariff free from the U.S.

Businesspeople on both sides of the border remain concerned, said Robinson of J.H. Rose Logistics.

Everything is running as normal now, but theres nothing new and exciting happening, Robinson said. I dont think well see any real growth until things become clearer.
As a citizen concerned about mental health in our community, I joined 39 other volunteer professionals and consumers of behavioral health care in the metro area to make cautious and measured allocations of our tax dollars. In (the Journals) Aug. 11 editorial our efforts were called an unkept promise that hurts more than the taxpayers  it hurts those the tax was intended to help.  The comments sting.

Let me clarify and correct. We have committed 60 percent of the $40 million, as the amounts listed for various projects are the amount per year. We have UNMs Institute for Social Research engaged to seek best practices across the nation to provide potential structure for projects. Needs identified in the Community Partners Business Plan procured by Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Government Commission published Dec. 2015 are based on many studies of gaps in care over the last decade. All projects are considered pilots. Most have a one-year evaluate and modify component. Data is being gathered to provide evidence-based medicine.

The money instead would back-fill existing programs applies at most to one case, the Community Connections jail re-entry diversion program for $1.3 million or, over three years, $3.9 million. I was on the committee that voted to fund that. It was the only program that existed prior to committees developing the rest from the ground up. There is good evidence that individuals in stable housing reduce substance use and criminal activity. We created a sister program for community members, also funded at $1.3 million, for taking referrals from the mental health community.

The Housing, Crisis, Community Supports and Prevention and Harm Reduction subcommittees have also designed project concepts for the following, associated costs are included: Youth Transitional Living, $650,000; Adverse Childhood Events, $3 million; Community Engagement Teams, $1 million; Peer Drop-in Centers, $300,000; Jail re-entry center, $1.3 million; UNM Institute for Social Research, $245,000 ; Behavioral Health Advisory Services, $140,000.

A decision was reached Aug. 18 on the vendor to staff four Mobile Crisis Teams with 5.2 licensed social workers for ride along Albuquerque Police Department and Bernalillo County Sheriffs Department crisis-intervention teams. Contract negotiations are next. It was budgeted for $1 million, though the proposal came in at less and allows room to expand. My calculator says $10.2 million of $17 million  60 percent of all funds allocated. We are researching single site housing, respite or relief house, in-school programs. We 40 volunteers are a bit obsessive about getting good value for your/our tax dollars. As Commissioner Maggie Hart Stebbins stated, It has been a very thoughtful process.

A conscious decision was made not to go for a building but for services. Las Cruces has had a mental health building with no money to staff it. We fund our own local community resources and challenge them to develop expanded new programs to fill identified needs. We are benefiting citizens, consumers, employers, local programs and the tax base. We are working with bigger health care entities in hopes of leveraging a physical site, but I think our efforts are responsible, on task and a benefit to our community.
WASHINGTON  Rarely, if ever, have so many presidential winners and losers been so incessantly chatty.

Hillary Clinton  who lost the 2016 election, in case you werent sure  is on a book tour with her campaign memoir, What Happened. Hint: Shes a woman, the Comey letter.

Donald Trump  who is still campaigning despite having won  is chatting up Democrats to try to get something done. Anything! By weeks end, he was recanting every mean thing he ever said about illegal immigrants and softening his vow to send Dreamers, children brought here by their parents, back to their point of conception.

Meanwhile, Barack Obama, who already had his turn but cant quite quit the presidency, is still talking.

Finally, Sen. Bernie Sanders, who lost the Democratic nomination to Clinton, is still running and still ranting about Medicare for everyone. Given the likely eventuality of a single-payer health care system, he and Larry David may as well take a victory lap. Its beginning to seem that Sanders won after all. As did the Democrats.

On the losing side are the Republicans who put their faith in a guy who promised the moon but has managed only to deliver a galaxy of tweets and several significant staff replacements. Trump the Republican was always a strain to credulity, but people can make themselves believe just about anything, as thousands of years of ritual sacrifice and snake dances confirm. Trump the salesman has always known this, either instinctively or as the result of his first successful con.

There are two things to know about con artists: One, theyre having fun; two, once a bluffer tastes the sweet satisfaction of scamming a sucker  ones born every minute, you know  he cant stop. Once The Donald realized people would buy his brand of unction, he couldnt resist. No matter what he said or did, people of good, and not-so-good, faith donned their protective glasses and refused to see.

Trump was never ideologically driven, though he did surround himself with ideologues as helpmates. Or were they the biggest suckers of all?

This thought finally began to take shape when Trump recently met with the enemy  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Depending on whose version one prefers, they discussed making a deal on both the future of hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants and what Trump called extreme security.

Almost instantly, Breitbart slapped Trump with a headline and a nickname: Amnesty Don. How quickly Steve Bannon shape-shifted from former senior White House policy adviser and Trumps personal Pravda to his antagonist. Other Republicans, presumably speaking for the base, declared Trumps presidency kaput.

Then again, maybe Trump decided it was time to get something done. Maybe hidden deep within, he has a heart. Or, more likely, he saw polls saying that most Americans think children brought here not of their own accord should be allowed to stay in the country where they grew up.

Maybe he gets his wall in the process, maybe not. But what seems increasingly clear is that, while Clinton tries to purge her demons by explaining how she lost, Trump is busy fashioning a perfect world for Democrats to prevail. Which is to say, he may get more accomplished for the Democratic Party than Clinton could have with a Republican-dominated Congress.

Consider: Immigration reform is beginning to look a lot less Draconian and a lot more Pope-ish. Bannon, a Catholic, notably remarked during a recent 60 Minutes interview that the church has been terrible on immigration, encouraging forgiveness rather than wall-building, because, he said, it needs illegal immigrants to fill the pews. Such a charmer, that one.

Also, the wall is not, in fact, getting built, though repairs are currently being made to existing wall-like structures. Ditto health care, which, instead of being repealed and replaced, likely will be an Obamacare fix, followed by a single-payer system that Democrats wanted all along and that Trump supported before he became a Republican.

Thus, it would seem that Democrats really won the election and that President Trump, despite his campaign promises, is a pretty good Democrat after all. Congratulations, Mr. President, on your best performance yet. Congratulations are also owed to former President Obama, whose chief legacy survives. Congratulations, Sen. Sanders: Your day is nigh.

Finally, congratulations, Madame Secretary: Everybody knows you won, and why you lost. You get the last word, a great haircut, and you didnt have to take the worst job in the world. Not a bad days work.
On Sept. 6, as Houston was reeling from Hurricane Harvey and millions in Florida and the Caribbean were bracing for Hurricane Irma, the most powerful storm ever recorded over the Atlantic Ocean, President Donald Trump traveled to Mandan, N.D., where he stood in front of an oil refinery and touted his administrations role in slashing environmental protections and promoting the fossil fuel industry. He hailed construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline and Keystone XL, and boasted about withdrawing from the Paris climate accord.

So as climate-change-fueled disasters ravaged the U.S., Trump  the man who called climate change a Chinese hoax  was doing all he could to ensure future catastrophes.

Trump happened to come to North Dakota around the first anniversary of the Day of the Dogs  a vicious attack by dogs unleashed by Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) guards against nonviolent Native American water protectors. The guards punched, beat and Maced the protesters, and the dogs bit both water protectors and their horses. One of the dogs had blood dripping from its nose and mouth. Democracy Now! news hour was there, recording it all.

DAPL has been an especially powerful symbol for the climate change resistance movement, which is challenging the logic of fossil fuel extraction and demanding a shift to a sustainable economy based on renewable energy.

Native Americans call the Dakota Access Pipeline the black snake. The 1,172-mile-long, $3.8 billion pipeline was designed to carry up to 500,000 barrels per day of crude, fracked oil from the Bakken Formation in North Dakota, across South Dakota, Iowa and then to southern Illinois, where it would connect to another pipeline for transport to the U.S. Gulf.

Beginning in April 2016, thousands of indigenous people from across Latin America, the United States and Canada converged on North Dakota in the largest unification of native tribes in decades. They were led by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, which insisted that the pipeline crossing under the Missouri River just upstream from their reservation could irreversibly pollute not only their drinking water supply, but the water for 17 million people downstream.

The resistance camps kept growing. In response, Energy Transfer Partners (ETP), which owns the pipeline, and the Morton County sheriff intensified and militarized the repression. The standoff at Standing Rock was a shining moment in the annals of nonviolent resistance, with wave after wave of courageous acts of creative civil disobedience, conducted prayerfully with indigenous leadership.

Responding to the massive protests and the violent police crackdown, the Obama administration ordered some pipeline construction halted. Victory seemed within reach.

Then Donald Trump won the presidential election.

On Jan. 24, four days after assuming the presidency, Donald Trump signed executive orders to accelerate completion and operation of DAPL, as well as the controversial Keystone XL pipeline, which President Barack Obama had blocked after being confronted for years by mass protest and civil disobedience. By June 1, ETP claimed in a press release that the pipeline was operational, presumably meaning oil was flowing through it.

Several days earlier, The Intercept news website reported on 1,100 pages of documents it obtained, detailing how a military/intelligence mercenary group called TigerSwan had been advising ETP and North Dakota law enforcement for months. The Intercept reported, TigerSwan discusses protesters as terrorists, their direct actions as attacks, and the camps as a battlefield, reveals how the protesters dissent was not only criminalized but treated as a national security threat.

Last month, ETP sued Greenpeace International, Earth First! and other environmental groups, accusing them of inciting eco-terrorism against the pipelines construction. Annie Leonard, executive director of Greenpeace, countered that the lawsuit is an attempt to taint constitutionally protected, science-based free speech advocacy. Theyre trying to criminalize healthy, righteous protest.

The price: the planet.

As catastrophic hurricanes have laid waste to large areas of the United States and Caribbean, it is clear what the real national security threat is: climate change, and the fossil fuel industry that is intensifying it.

Were basically in an endgame now, 350.org founder Bill McKibben told Democracy Now! We have to go to 100 percent renewable energy, and we have to do it fast.

For the moment, of course, Trump is ascendant with the fossil fuel industry, said McKibben. But like many things that Trump touches, I think that this is a last gasp. People are coming to associate the insanity of going full speed ahead into this greenhouse future with the most reckless and crazy president that weve ever had.
Bulletin board

WESST is offering Power Tools for Your Business, a nine-session class designed as a mini MBA to introduce prospective and current small-business owners to the basics of running a small business, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Sept. 20, 27; Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25; and Nov. 1, 8 and 15 at the WESST Enterprise Center, 609 Broadway NE. The WESST instructors for the class are Kim Blueher, vice president of lending; Julianna Silva, managing director of the WESST Enterprise Center; and Clint Reecer, Albuquerque regional manager. Session topics include business modeling, market research, pricing/break even, financial statements, cash flow analysis, marketing strategy, social media strategy, ask the experts, and business plan components. The cost is $139 with preregistration; and $159 at the door. To register or for additional information, visit www.wesst.org; or call Lorena Schott at 505-246-6939.

The Northern New Mexico Human Resources Association (NNMHRA) is hosting the 2017 Legal Update Conference from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. on Thursday at the Inn & Spa at Loretto in Santa Fe, 211 Old Santa Fe Trail. The conference features several of New Mexicos top employment law attorneys and attracts over 100 human resources, business and legal professionals from northern New Mexico who gather to learn about the latest trends and changes in employment law. The cost is $149 for NNMHRA members; $159 for SHRM-NM affiliate chapter members and SHRM members; $79 for SHRM NM student chapter members; and $179 for others. For advance registration or additional information, visit https://nnmhra.shrm.org.

The New Mexico Chapter of the American Marketing Association (NMAMA) presents their September lunch & learn, The UNM + DreamStyle Rebranding Story, by Dawn Dewey, marketing director at DreamStyle Remodeling, and Randall Marshall, principal/vice president of creative services at K2MD, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, 5011 Pan American Fwy. NE. Admission is $25 for NMAMA members and $40 for others. Preregistration is recommended. To register or for additional information, visit www.nmama.org.

Social Security Made SIMPLE, a free seminar by Lee Munson, CFA, CFP, at noon on Thursday at the Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE. Learn the basics, some advanced strategies, and how to avoid mistakes all in plain English. For advance registration or additional information, call 505-884-3445 or email SeminarNM@PortfolioLLC.com.

The North I-25 Business Association meets at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday at Nativo Lodge, 6000 Pan American Fwy. NE. The featured speaker is John Mierzwa, CEO and cofounder of Ingenuity Software Labs, discussing, Deep Dive Coding Bootcamps and Software Development in the Albuquerque Area. Admission is free to members and $30 for others. Advance reservations are recommended. To register or for additional information, contact Elaine Mitchell by calling 505-264-9600.or call 505-345-6976.

The New Mexico Chapter of the Commercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) presents its September luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Albuquerque Marriott, 2101 Louisiana NE. The featured presentation is The Official State of the City Address by Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry. Tickets are $35 for members and $45 for others. To register online, visit www.naiopnm.org, or call 505-345-6976.

Applause

Reuben Jamharian, DMD, has received the Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) during the organizations convocation ceremony. The award is the highest honor bestowed by the Academy of General Dentistry. Jamharian had to complete 1,100 hours of continuing dental education in the 16 disciplines of dentistry including 400 hours dedicated to hands-on skills and techniques.

Janet M. McHard, CPA, CFE, MAFF, CFF, founder partner of McHard Accounting Consulting, has received the James R. Baker Speaker of the Year Award from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The award is presented annually to honor an individual who has demonstrated the true spirit of leadership in communication, presentation and quality instruction.

MILESTONES

Rainbow Ryders, the nations largest hot-air balloon ride company, and the official hot-air balloon ride company of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, is celebrating 35 years in business. What began as Scott Applemans one-man operation out of his garage, now has more than 200 employees and seasonal contractors in three cities, with a fourth on the horizon. Headquartered in Albuquerque, the company also has offices in Phoenix and Colorado Springs, with plans to open an office in Las Vegas, Nev., later this year.

Etc.

The New Mexico Alliance for School-Based Health Care has elected its board of directors for 2017-18. They are Therese Hidalgo, DNP, CNP, FNP-BC, president; Patsy Nelson, MA, BSN, past-president; Amilya Ellis, LISW, president-elect; Mary Morse, RN, BS, MBA, treasurer; and Mary Kay Pera, MS, Bachelors Humanities, BSN, secretary.

Directors elected to the board include Caitlin Adams, BS; Debbie Birkhauser, EdS, MA; Adrian Carver, BA; Elizabeth Dickson, MSN, R.N.; Amanda Frost, MPH; Italia Aranda Gonzalez, BS; Marnie Nixon, MA; Darcie Robran-Marquez, M.D., MBA, CPE; Rebecca Sisneros; Adrienne Turner, JD; Susan Wilger, MPA, BS; David Vigil, MBA.

The New Mexico Chapter of the American Marketing Association (NMAMA) has elected board officers. They are Dawn Bodenner,  director marketing manager for DMC Logistics, president; Cynthia Nagle, president-elect; Allyne Clarke, vice president of programming; and Keith West, vice president of membership.

Ongoing members of the board include Bill Walters, vice president of finance; Charlotte Koppin, vice president of technology; and Kim Delker, immediate past president.
WASHINGTON  U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has recommended altering both the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte national monuments in New Mexico, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal published late Sunday.

The national newspaper said the two New Mexico monuments are among seven Zinke has recommended for downsizing or to be otherwise made less restrictive  including by allowing traditional activities including ranching and logging.

Zinke has suggested that the White House amend the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument near Las Cruces in the southern part of the state to, among other things, to lift motorized restrictions in areas close to the U.S.-Mexican border for national security reasons, the Wall Street Journal's online edition reported.

Zinke wrote in his report that traditional activities such as ranching and logging would be better protected by reducing acreages or making other changes at  New Mexico's Rio Grande del Norte national monument, among others, the newspaper reported.

The Interior Department referred the Albuquerque Journal's questions about the matter to the White House late Sunday night. The White House declined to comment on the leaked Interior report and suggested final decisions about Zinke's monuments recommendations may still be pending.

The Trump Administration does not comment on leaked documents, especially internal drafts which are still under review by the President and relevant agencies, the White House said in a statement.

The Organ Mountains monument, which totals nearly a half-million acres and is not fully contiguous, was considered more likely to face possible changes than the Rio Grande del Norte monument, although some ranchers and traditional northern New Mexico farmers have said federal restrictions on public land use in the north hurts their way of life. Rep. Steve Pearce, R-N.M., had urged the White House to reduce the Organ Mountains monument by as much as 88 percent, citing in part a large restricted footprint that he said could hinder southern New Mexico's economy.

The Zinke recommendation is almost sure to be met with fierce criticism from Democrats in New Mexico's congressional delegation, as well as state and national environmental and conservation groups, who have lobbied aggressively to persuade the Trump administration to keep the New Mexico monuments fully intact.

The Wilderness Society suggested late Sunday that if Zinke's recommended reductions are finalized the matter could end up in court. Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., and New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas have also threatened lawsuits.

This callous proposal will needlessly punish local, predominantly rural communities that depend on parks and public lands for outdoor recreation, sustainable jobs and economic growth, the Wilderness Society said. We believe the Trump administration has no legal authority to alter or erase protections for national treasures.
[September 17, 2017] Cogobuy Partners with Samsung ARTIK Enhancing its Competitive Edge as a Leading IoT Innovation Platform

HONG KONG, Sept. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Cogobuy Group ("Cogobuy" or the "Company", stock code: 400.HK; with its subsidiaries (the ''Group'')), the largest e-commerce platform serving the electronics manufacturing industry in China, is pleased to announce INGDAN.com has entered a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ("Samsung") (OTCMKTS: SSNLF), to connect Samsung's ARTIK IoT Platform (ARTIK) with INGDAN.com users and the INGDAN.com resource supply chain ecosystem, strengthening their respective edges to capture the Trillion-RMB IoT market opportunities in China. According to the latest market research, 65% of enterprises are currently applying IoT technology enhancements to their products and services, and the number of IoT enabled devices is on track to reach 50 billion globally by 2020. Samsung ARTIK is a latest end-to-end integrated IoT platform solution that unifies hardware, software, cloud, security, and partner ecosystems into a single, integrated offering. By providing easy to use, open and enterprise grade APIs (Application Programming Interface), SDKs (Software Development Kit), and tools to mitigate the complexity of IoT, ARTIK enables corporates to reduce the time, cost, and risk associated with developing new IoT products and services. Samsung's partnership with INGDAN.com, the largest IoT innovation business platform in China, is strategic on several levels. INGDAN.com has hosted over 20,000 innovation projects, maintains a substantial client base along the IoT industry chain, and offers competitive integrated solutionssuch as its Smart Home Ecosystem with the Haier U+ platform and Unisound, and open AI platform, the Kelper System (K-System), launched in May 2017. The partnership with Samsung ARTIK will strengthen INGDAN.com's abilities in prviding turn-key AI solutions for chips, software, cloud, and data services helping companies to upgrade or develop AI enabled products and services.



Mr. Jeffrey Kang, CEO of Cogobuy Group, said, "According to China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, machine-to-machine or 'M2M' connections in China have surpassed 100 million connections, while market output from core IoT industries has surged from RMB 170 billion in 2009 to RMB 930 billion in 2016, a CAGR of 25%. As one of the few first movers who foresaw the rise of IoT, Cogobuy spent years laying groundwork for INGDAN.com, which has now hosted over 20,000 projects. Our latest cooperation with Samsung ARTIK is expected to further solidify our leading position across China's IoT industries. By bringing together Samsung's cutting-edge technologies and INGDAN.com's client resources, we are confident in our potential to grow in the IoT market in China for years to come."

About Cogobuy Group

Cogobuy Group is the largest e-commerce service platform serving the electronics manufacturing industry in China. Through the e-commerce platform, which includes a direct sales platform, an online marketplace, and a dedicated team of technical consultants and professional sales representatives, the Company provides customers with comprehensive online and offline services across pre-sale, sale, and post-sale stages. The Company serves mainly SME electronics manufacturers. For further information, please visit the Company's website at http://www.cogobuy.com/ About INGDAN.com

INGDAN.com is a platform dedicated to connecting global intelligent hardware entrepreneurs and China-based supply chain resources. The platform provides information on hardware innovation, supply chain data and supply chain demand docking for global IoT innovators and entrepreneurs. It is a one-stop hardware innovation business platform with its core being the "supply chain". For further information, please visit the Company's website at http://www.ingdan.com/ About Samsung ARTIK

Samsung ARTIK is the integrated Smart IoT platform providing path to secure, interoperable, and intelligent IoT products and services. Samsung ARTIK: unifies hardware, software, cloud, security, and partner ecosystem in a single integrated offering; hides the inherent complexity of IoT behind easy to use, open, and enterprise grade APIs, SDKs, and tools; and enables any device to interact with any 3rd party device, app, or service. Using Samsung ARTIK modules, cloud APIs, and tools, enterprises can quickly bring new IoT solutions to market. To learn more about Samsung ARTIK smart IoT platform, visit https://www.artik.io/ View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cogobuy-partners-with-samsung-artik-enhancing-its-competitive-edge-as-a-leading-iot-innovation-platform-300520920.html SOURCE Cogobuy Group

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
The University of New Mexico Hospital is losing its longtime CEO in a matter of weeks, but it will likely take several months to choose his successor.

Since Steve McKernans August announcement that he would retire this fall, UNM has had discussions with an executive search firm and begun forming a local search committee to help determine who will take his place. Still, finding the next leader of UNMH  the states only Level 1 trauma center and academic medical center  should extend well into 2018.

Were hoping well have somebody on the ground here by July, Dr. Paul Roth, chancellor of UNMs Health Sciences Center, said last week.

McKernan formally retires Oct. 1 after 37 years at the hospital, including the last 21 as CEO; however, he is not leaving immediately.

Roth said McKernan will remain at full salary for the remainder of October in an emeritus role to smooth the transition to interim CEO Michael Chicarelli. Chicarelli now serves as an administrator for professional and support services.

UNM, meanwhile, is working to find its next permanent hospital CEO.

It is planning to hire Illinois-based executive search firm Witt/Kieffer to help, though a contract has not been finalized, according to an HSC spokeswoman. The Journal has requested a copy of the contract when it becomes available.

Roth is also convening a local search committee to aid in the hunt. It will include representatives from inside and outside the university.

He expects the committee and search firm to meet later this month to refine the search process.

To guide their efforts, Roth is currently crafting a leadership statement to better define the CEO position based on current and future needs and the evolving health care picture. He said he has sought input from hospital trustees, faculty, administrators and others across the local health care spectrum.

Were trying to have an understanding, or some consensus, on what role UNM Hospital will be playing in our state, in our county and in our health system, he said. Armed with that, well be able to identify the personal characteristics and skill sets that we would hope to have (in) the next CEO of UNM Hospital.

McKernan earns $517,591 annually to oversee UNMH  a facility that handles 93,000 emergency visits and 491,000 outpatient visits annually, according to its website. Roth said the salary is low by industry standards.

Its going to be tough to find somebody with (McKernans) salary, he said. Were going to try.

McKernan will rejoin UNMH in fiscal year 2019 in a part-time, advisory role to assist with special projects, Roth said.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

Albuquerque Public Schools slid downward overall in the latest round of school grades, but the districts high schools are a bright spot.

Five out of 13 APS high schools improved by at least one letter grade and six held steady, according to ratings released by the Public Education Department last month.

Albuquerque Highs and Highland Highs scores declined by a grade because fewer than 95 percent of their students participated in standardized testing. PED automatically drops school grades by one level if they dont meet this threshold.

Without the participation penalty, APS would not have any F-level high schools this year.

Our high schools are working hard to improve academic outcomes for all students, Superintendent Raquel Reedy said in a statement. The improved school grade at several of our schools is an indication of that progress. We will continue to provide resources and support for schools, so that more of our students are successful and ultimately prepared to graduate and move on to higher education, prosperous careers and full lives.

At the high school level, APS schools earned two As, three Bs, five Cs, two Ds and one F, when factoring in the participation penalty.

Its a success for a district that struggled in other areas.

Overall, 34 percent of Albuquerques schools received F grades in the latest state report, up from 25 percent in 2016. Across the state, 16 percent of public schools received failing grades, up from 13 percent in 2016.

In the latest round of school grading, 56 of New Mexicos 89 public school districts received no Fs.

The major factor in a schools grade is test results, including the Partnership for Readiness for College and Careers, or PARCC. At the high school level, test score growth makes up 40 percent of the total grade; overall proficiency counts for 20 percent.

PED has been gradually increasing the importance of student proficiency. Two years ago, it made up just 10 percent of the high school grade. In 2019, proficiency will go up to 25 percent of the high school grade.

High school grades also include a college and career readiness metric that considers factors like the graduation rate, Advanced Placement testing and dual-credit enrollment.

New Mexicos graduation rate reached a record high in 2016  71 percent of students earned their caps and gowns, up two percentage points from 2015.

Secretary of Education-designate Christopher Ruszkowski said many high schools across the state are making positive strides.

 Santa Fe: Santa Fe High rose from an F to a C; Capital High from a D to a C.

 Las Cruces: The districts high schools earned one A, one B and two Cs  overall, the same as 2016.

 Rio Rancho: Rio Rancho High School slipped to a B after earning a string of As. V. Sue Cleveland High continues to be an A-level school.

PED spokeswoman Lida Alikhani told the Journal that New Mexicos students have consistently improved to meet higher standards.

From Farmington to Alamogordo to Gadsden, school districts across the state that embrace reform and opportunity are improving educational outcomes for the children in their classrooms, she said in a statement. School improvement is a choice that every school and district can make  and when schools and districts are struggling, parents and families shouldnt be required to wait and hope.

One schools success

At Del Norte High, Principal Jo Sloan celebrated her schools improvement from an F to a C over the past year.

The high-poverty school at Montgomery and San Mateo NE received a test participation penalty in 2016, which reduced its grade from a D to an F.

This year, Del Norte met the test participation requirement and saw growth in math scores and college and career readiness.

Sloan said she believes the improvement comes down to persistence and hard work.

Del Norte staff are devoting more time to test preparation and student advising, she said, and more kids are taking advantage of Saturday school, which provides free tutoring and access to a computer lab. AVID, or Advancement Via Individual Determination, an international program, teaches students study skills, organization, goal setting and college application steps.

Chris Welsh, dean of students, said its important for teachers to help students understand the connection between succeeding in school and building a good future.

We have to get buy-in, Welsh said. School has to be a priority in your life.

Sloan said she is encouraged by the improvement, but there is a long way to go.

Only 55 percent of Del Norte students are graduating on time and attendance is an issue.

Sloan said the schools low 2016 test participation was driven by truancy, not a coordinated opt-out movement.

We are trying to make sure kids are here consistently, she said. It is easy to leave campus. You can get on a bus and get anywhere in the city.

Sloan said Del Norte needs to work on its overall test scores and graduation rate to earn a better grade.

She acknowledged that the school grade process is nerve-wracking.

When you get that F, its like a pillow and you just squeezed all the air out, she said. People are really disheartened.

Welsh stressed that Del Norte teachers and staff are always working very hard, even when they receive a low school grade.

This is nonstop  they just give it all, he said.

PEDs school grade system has been subject to controversy, particularly its strong focus on test scores.

The states teachers unions oppose what they call a test and punish system.

Ruszkowski said the grades are a valuable tool for parents to see how their childrens schools are performing.

American Federation of Teachers New Mexico President Stephanie Ly countered that it is impossible to shame our way to success.

The continued use of school grades willfully ignores important factors such as child poverty, over-testing, and limited access to early education opportunities, she said in a statement.
KAMPALA, Uganda (AP)  Thirteen people, including 12 Tanzanian nationals, have been killed in a motor accident on a highway in central Uganda, police said Monday.

Most of the victims were traveling in a minibus that crashed head-on with a truck on Sunday night, Ugandan police spokesman Asan Kasingye told a news conference in the capital, Kampala.

The Tanzanians were returning home from a wedding in Kampala.

Seven other passengers in the minibus were seriously injured and in critical condition. A passenger in the truck was killed while the driver was seriously injured, Kasingye said.

The highway leading to western Uganda has been notorious over the years for the high number of lethal accidents usually blamed on irresponsible drivers.

In July 2016 at least 17 people were killed in a multi-vehicle accident on the highway, which leads to neighboring Rwanda and often has heavy trucks carrying imports from the Indian Ocean coast.

Deadly motor accidents are frequent in this East African country where roads and highways are narrow and often pot-holed.

 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
CHICAGO  With many drug prices rising, consumers often pull out coupons or discount cards from drugmakers to save money when they buy medications at pharmacies.

But some insurers are limiting how those discounts may be applied amid concerns theyre driving up health care costs for everyone. Curbing the coupons could mean more money out of consumers pockets in the short term, but in the long run could also help hold down drug prices and health care costs, say critics of the cards and coupons.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois told its members with individual plans this year they can still take advantage of the discounts, but they wont get credit toward their deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums. Cigna only allows coupons to be used for specialty drugs  medications used to treat rare or complex conditions. UnitedHealthcare and Aetna declined to comment on their policies on the discounts.

A number of experts and advocates for lower drug prices applaud any actions aimed at stemming the use of copay cards and coupons, which are available online, through the mail or from doctors.

Typically, patients with individual and employer-based plans can use the cards or coupons to save money on their insurance copays for certain prescription medications at the pharmacy. While a coupon can reduce all or part of a patients copay, the insurance company still has to pay its full portion for what might be a high-priced drug  a cost that opponents of the discounts say is ultimately passed on to all consumers in the form of higher insurance premiums.

Such discounts made news last year amid outcry over the skyrocketing costs of EpiPens, sold by Mylan. As part of its response to the uproar, Mylan offered $300 savings cards to patients with nongovernment insurance to help lower their out-of-pocket costs. Mylan still faced criticism that the discounts wouldnt help everyone as much as simply lowering the price would.

The copay coupons are a scam by the drug companies, said David Mitchell, president and founder of Patients for Affordable Drugs, a nonprofit that doesnt take money from drug companies or insurers. Effectively we wind up, all of us, paying a higher price for our health insurance because they just steered us to a more expensive drug that ultimately gets paid for by someone.

Pharmacy benefit managers, which act as middlemen between pharmacies and insurance companies, dont like the coupons either. The coupons are often used to drive patients to higher-cost brand drugs instead of generics, said Mark Merritt, president of the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association.

Drug companies, however, defend the practice as a way to make sure patients have access to the medications they need. The coupons can provide a valuable source of assistance for many commercially insured patients to afford out-of-pocket costs associated with insurance coverage for their medications, said Holly Campbell, a spokeswoman for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, in an email.

Patients like John Ellmann, of suburban Chicago, know how much help such cards and coupons can be.

Ellmann, 59, uses a copay card for a prescription migraine medication he said would otherwise cost him $100 out-of-pocket for a months supply, with insurance. That would be a barrier to me filling my prescription, he said.

The copay card from the drugmaker takes his out-of-pocket cost down to $10 a month, he said.

Ellmann was among the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois members with individual plans who were informed earlier this year that the insurer would not apply the value of the discounts toward deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums.

Colleen Miller, a spokeswoman for the company, said in an email that Blue Cross put the policy in place in accordance with federal rules and guidance as well as industry concerns over use of the cards and coupons. This policy helps to ensure that the individual health insurance market is more stable and affordable for all of our members, Miller said.

Thats in line with the federal governments position on the matter. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said in the federal register in 2014 that it encourages insurers offering individual plans to reject cost-sharing payments from companies.

A concern, especially in the individual market, is the discounts could offset the balance of healthy versus sick people who sign up for insurance plans by attracting more sick people who might use the discounts to those plans, said Harvard Business School Professor Leemore Dafny. That could lead to higher insurance premiums across those plans, she said.

The discounts cause other issues as well, she said. In a recent study, Dafny and her co-authors found the prices for drugs with coupons grew more quickly than prices for drugs without coupons. They also found that coupons for 23 branded drugs, for which generics were available, led to increased spending of $700 million to $2.7 billion for those branded drugs over five years, according to the study published in the American Economic Journal: Economic Policy this year.

Dafny said shes glad to see insurers taking steps to curb the uses of copay coupons and cards, but shed like to see them and others go even further.

Lawmakers in some states already are taking action. California lawmakers have been considering a bill that would prohibit the use of coupons for drugs when other, less expensive drugs are available. A New Jersey lawmaker introduced a similar bill last year. Massachusetts already bans coupons for branded drugs with generic equivalents.

Medicare recipients also are prohibited from using the discounts.

Dafny acknowledged, however, that limitations on the use of copay coupons and cards can be difficult for consumers to swallow, even if theyre for the collective good.

Drug coupons may save you money, but theyre keeping drug prices high. Heres how.

Its about time that the payer industry puts in place a restriction to prevent the abuse of the insurance coverage in this way, but there will certainly be individuals who suffer some significant setbacks as a result, Dafny said. There arent free lunches.

Ellmann, the Highwood man with migraines, said hes not upset with Blue Cross new policy not to allow the value of his copay card to count toward his deductible. It would be nice, he said, but he understands the policy, given that the $90 hes saving through the discount isnt coming out of his pocket.

He said hell still likely use the card, unless hes getting close to his deductible. He said he appreciates the card because it allows him to choose the better treatment.

Ellmann believes the controversy over drug copay coupons and cards is just one small part of the ongoing battle between insurers and drug companies when it comes to whos responsible for holding down health care costs.



2017 Chicago Tribune

Visit the Chicago Tribune at www.chicagotribune.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
DALLAS  A former Dallas-area teachers aide who faked having cancer and took a car and donations from staff and students has been indicted on a count of theft of property.

A Dallas County grand jury indicted 56-year-old Kevin MaBone (MAY-bone) last week.

MaBone last year had told school administrators in Mesquite (muhs-KEET) that he had prostate cancer, prompting students and staff to rally in support of him. More than $11,000 was raised.

Officials later learned that the days off he requested for treatment coincided with federal court dates in West Virginia.

MaBone was convicted in that case of using a government credit card for fuel for his personal vehicle while previously working at the Job Corps Center in Charleston, West Virginia.

He was sentenced in February to six months in prison in that matter.
PLANO, Texas  A North Texas jail inmate and a female friend who acknowledged mailing him a greeting card soaked in liquid methamphetamine must serve more than four years in federal prison.

Prosecutors on Monday announced the punishment for 29-year-old Amanda Lynn Mollison of Allen and 39-year-old Justin Chadwick Brown of Grand Prairie.

Mollison in May pleaded guilty to providing contraband in prison. Brown pleaded guilty to possession of such contraband. Both received 51-month terms.

Investigators say Brown was in the Collin County Jail last October when he received a greeting card that tested positive for methamphetamine. Recorded jail phone calls confirmed Brown asked Mollison to mail him contraband.

Texas prison records show Brown also in October was sentenced in Collin County to nine months for theft and seven years for evading arrest.
PHOENIX  An Israeli man accused of picking up a 2-year-old girl in the Tempe home of a family he didnt know has been sentenced to nine months in prison and lifetime probation.

Maricopa County Superior Court officials say Oren Cohen was sentenced Monday after pleading guilty to aggravated assault on a minor, child abuse and second-degree burglary.

The 34-year-old Cohen was indicted last December on charges of kidnapping, burglary and aggravated assault on a minor. He pleaded not guilty in January.

Cohen told Tempe police he was drinking at a friends place on Dec. 15 and accidentally went into the wrong apartment after going outside to smoke a cigarette.

The girls father woke up after hearing the child whimpering and found Cohen holding the pajama-wearing toddler in the homes living room.
Police arrested a man with a history of erratic behavior after they say he lit the inside of his girlfriends vehicle on fire, and briefly evaded officers by climbing into a community center through its roof.

Officer Tanner Tixier, a spokesman for the Albuquerque Police Department, said around 10:10 a.m. Monday, police were called to the Cesar Chavez Community Center, on Kathryn near Louisiana SE. A woman told them her boyfriend was in her vehicle, refusing to come out and threatening to harm himself.

When officers arrived they found 32-year-old Superman Amir, who is also known as Joseph Grubb, Tixier said.

Police officers have an extensive history with Mr. Amir and are well aware of his proclivity to violence and irrational behavior, Tixier wrote in an email. Additional information provided by the caller indicated that Mr. Amir was actively damaging the interior of her vehicle and that she had gone inside the community center for her own safety.

He said when officers arrived they saw Amir setting a shirt on fire and burning the inside of the vehicle. They asked the community center to go on lockdown.

Then Amir was able to get out of the vehicle and jump on the roof of the center. He climbed through the roof and into the center, Tixier said.

A short time later, Mr. Amir exited the building on his own accord and was taken into custody without incident, he said. Mr. Amir will be charged with arson and criminal damage to property.

Amir was booked into the county jail Monday afternoon.

Amir has faced numerous charges of criminal damage to property, trespassing and disorderly conduct over the past three years, according to online court records. The majority of the charges are misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors, and have been dismissed with the option to refile.

In October of 2016 he was charged with felony damage to property after he climbed onto a building on east Central and threw items off it throughout a 12-hour standoff with police. That case was dismissed when 60 days passed and he hadnt been indicted.

Detectives in our Crisis Intervention Unit have exhausted all available resources to deal with Mr. Amir, Tixier said. It appears the only way to prevent these erratic, violent and destructive outbursts from Mr. Amir is to keep him in custody.

After Amirs was arrested in August after police say he climbed onto another roof and tried to dismantle it with a knife, the District Attorneys Office filed a motion asking for him to be kept in jail until his trial.
[September 18, 2017] SilverSEAL Corporation Names Patrick Timlin as Chief Executive Officer

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- SilverSEAL Corporation ("SilverSEAL"), a premier global security and investigations company, announced today the strategic hire of Patrick Timlin as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Timlin was most recently Senior Vice President, Security and Life Safety, at Brookfield Property Partners, ("BPP"), a leading global property development and management company, where he was responsible for the management of all BPP security programs throughout the U.S. as well as strategic guidance throughout the company's global portfolio. He previously served as CEO of an international specialized security consultancy, and had a diverse and distinguished career with the New York City Police Department. John Silverman, Chairman of SilverSEAL, stated, "We are delighted to have secured Pat Timlin as our new CEO. Pat's senior experience in corporate security and law enforcement, and his proven experience in leading and growing large enterprises, will greatly enhance our global reach, and our ability to provide creative solutions to our clients. We welcome him to the SilverSEAL family and we are excited to have him on board as SilverSEAL continues o grow, and continues to maintain the highest integrity in the security field."



In his former position as Deputy Commissioner of Operations at the NYPD, Mr. Timlin was responsible for the administration of the "CompStat" management accountability program, which has been replicated by municipalities and private entities worldwide. He served in operational roles throughout his career in the NYPD including positions as commander of the Bronx Patrol force, Queens Detectives, two precincts, and as a member of the NYPD's tactical and high-risk rescue team, the Emergency Service Unit. Mr. Timlin holds a J.D. from New York Law School and is a member of the New York Bar.

SilverSEAL is a New York- and London-based firm that has provided custom premier security services to multinational corporations, foundations, law firms, and high-net-worth individuals throughout the world for 25 years. SilverSEAL takes a holistic approach to security management, and bespoke solutions are designed to address each client's specific needs. Services provided by SilverSEAL include quality corporate security officer programs, executive protection, threat and risk analysis, corporate due diligence, investigations, litigation support, surveillance, background investigations, and computer forensics. Additionally, through SEAL Integrated Systems Ltd., SilverSEAL's electronic security division, custom access control, CCTV and intrusion detection systems are designed, installed and maintained for our clients. For more information, please visit http://silverseal.net. Press Contact:

Michael Nicoletti, Managing Director

SilverSEAL Corporation

[email protected]

212-732-1897 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/silverseal-corporation-names-patrick-timlin-as-chief-executive-officer-300520893.html SOURCE SilverSEAL Corporation

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Millenialls a.k.a Gen-Y are the generation of people born between the years 1980 to 2000 (who are currently between the age of 17- 37). There are estimated to be close to 2.5 billion people (around 30% of the global population) in this segment and they contribute USD 6 Trillion in global consumer spending (more than the GDP of countries like Japan, Germany and UK).

Millennials have grown up in a world of rapid socio-economic change and alongside technology. A cover story in Time Magazine in May, 2013 described the Millennials as the Me. Me. Me. Generation. They are highly individualistic and live in an eco-system of deficit and surplus. There is deficit of trust, time, attention and resources. There is surplus of products, goods, services and information

So, how does Advertising need to engage, involve and inspire this generation? Very differently from the preceding generation of Baby-Boomers. Here is the essential difference in the way Advertising works for these two generations.

Baby Boomers : Brand Talks-People Listen.

Millennials : Brand Does-People Talk.

Communication from brands with a one-way command & control mind-set has given way to an interactive collaborate & co-create approach.

In this context, let us examine the 3 key mantras for Advertising to Millennials, in contrast to advertising to the earlier generation of Baby-Boomers.

Propositions to Conversations

One-way proposition based advertising is out. Interactive brand conversations are in.

Millennials are connected to the internet 24x7 thanks to their Smartphones and are conditioned to be active participants in brand communication, rather than just passive receivers. They exercise their power to share and express their voice through active 'word-of-mouse. They are Prosumers who proactively co-create communication with the brands they relate to.

During the IPL-2016, Pepsi did a campaign titled Crash the IPL, where consumers had to create and upload their own Pepsi commercials and the best ones were selected and telecast on live IPL matches. The response was overwhelming, to say the least.

Ads to Acts

Self-proclaiming ads are out. Actions which create brand experiences are in.

Millennials seek experiences more than just products. Being highly cynical of advertising they appreciate and connect with brands that walk the talk and are authentic in the way they speak and act.

Creating brand experiences, virtual or real, through engaging content is the way to go. On-Air. On Line. On Ground integration is the recipe for success.

To address stagnant sales, Gillette Mach-3 did a highly successful integrated campaign- WALS (Women Against Lazy Stubble)- challenging the male stereotype of growing a stubble through a combination of social media conversations, Vlogs on You Tube, on-ground activations and TV commercials.

Repetition to Surprise

Repeating the same old formulae is out. Surprising consumers with fresh, unpredictable ideas is in.

In the information overload world of Millennials, getting noticed is hard enough, getting liked and shared is even tougher. Being predictable, repetitive and therefore boring,is death. Advertising that is out-of-the box is what gets eyeballs and clicks.

The recent # Release the Pressure campaign by Mirinda, that broke the mould in predictable soft drink advertising, is a case in point. The campaign took a point of view against examination stress for high school and college students. It presented the brand as a stress-buster and created engaging conversation around this theme. It caught the eye and imagination of the consumers.

From a generation that supposedly sees Battery Life and Wi-Fi as more important than any other need, may your advertising get as much attention and praise as an average millennial feels entitled to every day.

(Anand Narasimha is a Professor-Marketing & Strategy at IFIM Business School in Bangalore)
Standing by its philosophy of Fitness is life, leading fitness brand Reebok has continually encouraged women to be mentally, physical and socially fit. Launched last year, the #FitToFight campaign with brand ambassador Kangana Ranaut inspired women to become better versions of themselves, not just physically but also mentally and socially. It culminated with the brands first #FitToFight award ceremony where stories of women heroes like Deepa Malik and Geeta Tandon were recognized.

This year the fitness brand is back with #FitToFight 2017  to fight two looming gender demons of eve-teasing and inequality in pay. Fitness is intrinsic to Reeboks DNA and being the global pioneers of fitness, the brands aim is to encourage consumers to make fitness an important part of their lives and not just a daily habit.

Women across the globe have been stereotyped for centuries  they are expected to behave in a certain way and dress according to what the patriarchal society thinks is acceptable. One of the most insidious stereotypes of all is the widespread belief that girls don't and should not fight. When a man choses to fight against what he believes is wrong he is considered a leader, a fighter and the society puts him on a pedestal. But when a woman chooses to do the same it is deemed as uncharacteristic, un-ladylike, un-graceful or even bossy.

With this campaign, Reebok takes the stands that the world is wrong in their belief that girls don't fight.

A woman is born to be a fierce warrior and what she needs is to bring her latent strength to the forefront in the face of adversity.

Girls Dont Fight puts the ordinary Indian woman at its core and shows her how fitness helps tackle the varied challenges imposed on her. The focus is on breaking stereotypes and staring down challenges and in doing so, Reebok aims to break the most perpetuated stereotype faced by every woman and tell the world that girls, in fact, can and do fight.

With Girls Dont Fight, Reebok is propelling women to be mentally, physically and socially fit; to stand up for what is right and fight against injustice and discrimination. The word fight is not only a literal depiction but a call to action for those who will not accept the way things are, making it the Reebok slogan for all unsung women heroes. Through the film, the brand reiterates how physical fitness translates into strength of the mind too.

Announcing the second edition of the campaign and talking about this years theme Girls Dont Fight, Silvia Tallon, Senior Director Brand Marketing, Reebok said, I am proud to be a part of the Reebok family; being associated with a brand that celebrates the strength each woman carries within herself is indeed a matter of pride. FitToFight is a platform for each woman to share her personal story with the world  from her struggles to her victories. With Girls Dont Fight we wanted to address social issues that will resonate with each woman at some level.

The film starts with the protagonist, Justine Rae Mellocastro, a black belt in choi Kwang do, professional hairstylist and a competitive swimmer in real life, being encountered by the menace of eve teasing. Through fitness she is seen garnering mental strength to fight the peril. The film shows her drawing strength from the story teller, the motivator, the strength inside every woman  Kangana Ranaut  who encourages her to stay strong and continue fighting the odds. Concluding with a powerful message Fight more, Be more Human, the film is a call to all women to be fearless in the face of adversity.

Talking about the campaign, Kangana Ranaut, Brand Ambassador, Reebok India added, Even after 11 years of being in this industry, I am constantly battling perceptions and misconceptions, and breaking stereotypes every single day. Therefore, I identify very strongly with Reeboks FitToFight campaign and specially this years theme Girls Dont Fight. Reebok has addressed two very topical issues, things that we as women have unfortunately encountered at some point in our lives. I believe that each woman has a story within herself  of hardships and hope, battles and strength, sorrows and faith  and I hope that through #FitToFight these stories get a platform for others to draw inspiration.

The FitToFight campaign will be supported by an extensive 360-degree marketing approach including TV, Digital, Print, Radio, OOH and Retail. The films will be aired nationwide 15th September onwards. Continue watching this space for more as the next film of the campaign on inequality in pay will be launched next month.
Samsungs Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and 9.7 tablets have surfaced in benchmarks with Android 7.1.1 Nougat on the Geekbench website, though it is worth noting that the date in the screenshots below are from September 8th and September 11th, which was a little bit over a week ago, and the most recent listings of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7 are from today showing Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, which certainly suggests that the Nougat software is still in testing for these devices. Its also been reported that in addition to these two Samsung tablets, the Galaxy J5 2016 was seen in benchmarks running the same software.

None of these three devices are flagship devices from Samsung so it shouldnt be too surprising that the company has waited to push the Nougat software out to them. That being said, Android Nougat has already begun to hit the Galaxy J7 2016 so its a bit strange that Samsung isnt pushing the software to a device in the same family. When it comes to the Galaxy Tab A 9.7, the device was spotted at the Wi-Fi Alliance running on Android 7.0 Nougat back in July, which at the time seemed like Samsung might be gearing up to roll out the update to that device in the near future from that period. More than a month and a half has passed since then, though, and the update still hasnt been pushed out, and its possible that it had something to do with Samsung deciding to test Android 7.1.1 Nougat and send out this version of the software as opposed to version 7.0.

If Samsung is planning to roll out the software update for Android 7.1.1 Nougat to all three of the above-mentioned devices sometime in the near future, its still not known when an exact time will be for each device to get it. Its also not known if Samsung will send the update out to both the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7 at the same time even though they are in the same device lineup, seeing as how Samsung already did this with the Galaxy J5 2016. Those with any of these three devices though will want to keep an eye on their status bars, as Samsung could start pushing the software out to devices sooner than later.
Google has launched a new payments app called Tez in India today, hence confirming the reports that were released last week. Tez uses Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and is supported by 55 banks, at the moment, including Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and State Bank of India, and so on. As of now, the app offers support for multiple Indian languages like Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, and Telugu, thus making it convenient for its users in the country. Additionally, Tez can be used to make payments on websites like redBus, PVR Cinemas, Dominos Pizza, Dish TV, and Jet Airways, and so on. Being launched in a country where most of people still rely on cash transactions, Tez is looking to garner a decent number of users by incentivizing with Tez Scratch Cards that allow a user to win up to Rs. 1000 (~$15) with each transaction made using the app.

Unlike the popular mobile wallets in India, Tez seems to be developed more on the grounds of Googles own Android Pay. With Tez, payments are linked directly with your bank accounts, with no fees being deducted in the process, just make sure that you register to Tez using the same phone number that is linked to your bank account. You can send money directly to other peoples bank accounts using Tez, if you have their UPI ID, phone number, or account number. If that person is sitting right next to you, you can also transact by either scanning a QR code or using the Cash Mode, either of which doesnt require any personal details to be shared. The Cash Mode is built using Googles proprietary Audio QR (AQR) technology, and to use it, one person is required to swipe up on the Cash Mode button to make the payment, while the other one has to swipe down to receive the payment. Business owners and merchants can also use the Tez app by linking it with their savings or current accounts, but before that, they need to express their interests by filling in a form. Once that is approved, they will be able to create a custom business channel and send offers directly to their customers.

As for security, all transactions are secured with Tez Shield  a security measure that is built into the app and is constantly working to detect fraud and prevent hacking. Furthermore, each transaction requires you to enter your UPI PIN before it is completed, so you can be assured that no unauthorized transactions will be made, provided you dont share that PIN with anyone. You are required to secure your app either by using your devices screen lock  it can be a pattern, a PIN, a password, or your fingerprint  or by creating a Google PIN.

Advertisement

Google is planning on adding a number of other ways, like credit cards and mobile wallets, by which you can make payments on Tez in the near future. Additionally, some selected phones from certain original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Lava, Micromax, Nokia Mobile, and Panasonic, are said to be coming with Tez built-in. Since Google has already registered trademarks for the name Tez in other countries like Indonesia and the Philippines as well, the app is also expected to be launched in those countries soon.
Google Manager of Information Security Heather Adkins said that she sees the United States National Security Agency as a general security threat while speaking at TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2017 on Monday. Ms. Adkins was asked whether she would label the NSA as a state-sponsored threat in the same vein that the likes of Russia and China are viewed, to which she responded positively. Googles security chief suggested that the NSA itself isnt a security threat so much as the software tools and techniques it develops are, likely referencing an April incident which saw a range of hacking tools supposedly created by the federal agency being leaked online. That same software was reportedly later used for enabling a global ransomware attack known as WannaCry which infected numerous computers around the planet and compromised a broad range of systems, including some that are critical in nature like hospital software.

Ms. Adkins on Monday also confirmed that she worries about the NSA as much as she does about other organizations which could employ identical tools and techniques, noting how even a Mexican cartel could target Googles customers by relying on the same means of hacking. Due to that state of affairs, no single actor, program, or technique is as dangerous as the possibility of an efficient hacking tool being disseminated among malicious individuals and entities, Ms. Adkings suggested. The WannaCry attack was never linked to the NSA beyond a reasonable doubt, with some security experts previously associating the ransomware with Russia and the NSA itself tracking its creation to North Korea.

During the same event, Ms. Adkins said that no single company can entirely avoid the possibility of getting hacked, thus stressing the importance of having a viable emergency strategy, i.e. being able to respond to a successful hacking attack in a timely manner. The Alphabet-owned company was last hacked in 2009 as part of Operation Aurora, a series of sophisticated attacks conducted by actors from China who used the same techniques to target several other tech companies like Yahoo and Adobe Systems. The attacks resulted in a theft of some of Googles intellectual property and are also believed to have been aimed at a number of Chinese dissidents.
The Huawei Pay Android service may be coming to the United States, as suggested by a new trademark application which the Chinese original equipment manufacturer submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark office on Saturday. Huaweis application is still being reviewed by the USPTO and will presumably be approved at some point in 2018, with the agency usually taking several months to assign such filings to examining attorneys. News of Huaweis latest move comes less than a month after the Shenzhen, China-based tech giant filed for an identical trademark in Europe where the European Union Intellectual Property Office is also still examining its request.

In light of recent developments, it seems that Huawei is in the process of preparing for a wider release of its mobile payments solution which the company originally introduced in its home country in early 2016. Like many other contemporary services of its kind, Huawei Pay employs near-field communication (NFC) to connect with compatible terminals and facilitate contactless payments. The Chinese consumer electronics manufacturer has yet to make any major announcements regarding the expanded availability of Huawei Pay and its still unknown whether the company already managed to negotiate any partnerships with U.S. banks and other financial institutions in the country. The filing submitted to the USPTO that was originally discovered by Dutch outlet Mobielkopen is accompanied by the official logo of the service which can be seen above.

Huawei is currently in the process of teasing its next Android flagship thats set to be officially unveiled on October 16 but its unlikely that the Mate 10 will support Huawei Pay out of the box in markets outside of China. While the device is likely to be commercially available by November, the timing of Huaweis trademark applications suggests that the firm wont have the U.S. and European trademarks secured before next year. Such a turn of events would allow for Huawei Pay support to be added to the Mate 10 via an over-the-air (OTA) update post-launch, marking the start of the companys effort to compete with Android Pay on the Old Continent and stateside. Apart from possible support for an alternative contactless payment solution, the upcoming flagship from the Chinese tech giant is also said to be extremely AI-focused and ship with a new high-end chip in the form of the recently announced HiSilicon Kirin 970.
OUKITEL seems to be working on two new bezel-less smartphones, the OUKITEL Mix 2 and OUKITEL C8. OUKITEL says that both of these phones will sport the Infinity Display, though were sure that the company means infinity as in bezel-less, and not Infinity as in Samsungs branded display. In any case, OUKITEL is promising compelling specs in both of these phones, and theyll sport somewhat familiar designs, read on.

Lets kick things off with the OUKITEL Mix 2, shall we. If you take a look at the first image down below, youll be able to see the OUKITEL Mix 2s render. The device actually resembles the Xiaomi Mi MIX and Mi MIX 2 from the front, it has a rather noticeable chin below the display, while its side bezels are almost non-existent. Theres a really thin bezel above the display as well, as you can see. This handset will pack in 6GB of RAM and 64GB of native storage, and having that in mind, it will be the companys first smartphone with 6GB of RAM. The company also said that the OUKITEL Mix 2 will sport a larger battery pack than the Xiaomi Mi MIX 2, which means its battery will be larger than 3,400mAh. The OUKITEL Mix 2 will be available for $299.99 once the company launches it, so it will be considerably more affordable than the Mi MIX 2. This smartphone will be announced in October, says the company, and the OUKITEL C8 will also arrive next month, it seems.

The OUKITEL C8 is clearly inspired by the Samsung Galaxy S8, and this phones display will sport an 18:9 aspect ratio. The device will be fueled by the MediaTek MT6580A quad-core SoC, and it will pack in 2GB of RAM and 16GB of expandable storage. The device will ship with 13-megapixel and 5-megapixel cameras, and a 3,000mAh removable battery will also be included in this package. Android 7.0 Nougat will ship out of the box on this phone, and the device will be priced at $59.99. There you have it, two new handsets are coming from OUKITEL, and both of them will sport interesting designs. If youd like to know more, follow the source link down below.
[September 18, 2017] Tektronix PAM4 Optical Analysis Solution for Real-time Oscilloscopes Streamlines Validation Challenges

BEAVERTON, Ore., Sept. 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Tektronix, a leading worldwide provider of measurement solutions, today introduced the new DPO7OE1, a calibrated optical probe and analysis software for use with real-time oscilloscopes. It is optical reference receiver (ORR) compliant for 28-GBaud PAM4 applications and supports IEEE/OIF-CEI standard specific measurements. This new solution complements Tektronix' optical PAM4 analysis tools for sampling oscilloscopes, giving design teams efficient test solutions for all stages of the optical transmitter workflow. Based on real-time oscilloscopes like the DPO70000SX, this new offering allows R&D and system engineers to more easily troubleshoot their optical devices by adding powerful debug capabilities: software clock recovery for PAM4 and NRZ, triggering, error detection, and capture time correlated or contiguous record of a signal. One company that understands the value of an optical PAM4 solution based on real-time oscilloscopes is MaximIntegrated, a manufacturer of high-speed, low-power optical devices for data center applications.



"Advanced optical modulation formats like PAM4 require system testing with both sampling and real-time oscilloscopes," said Jan Filip director of advanced R&D at Maxim Integrated. "The new real-time oscilloscope-based solution allows us to provide critical debugging feedback to the development teams and to emulate advanced optical receiver systems using offline Matlab algorithms. Tektronix offers the best performing real-time oscilloscope detection solution to our optical and PAM4 test requirements and is our strategic partner for advanced measurement platforms." Applications & Analysis Packages

The DPO7OE1 offers 33 GHz optical bandwidth for 28-GBaud PAM4 debug applications. It can also be used for legacy NRZ applications. Analysis packages support standard optical measurements including ER, AOP, OMA, eye height and eye width as well as PAM4 IEEE and OIF-CEI standard specific measurements including TDECQ. Pricing & Availability The DPO7OE1 calibrated optical probe and PAM4 analysis packages are available to order now. Pricing starts at $35,000 US MSRP. For more information, please visit: https://www.tek.com/dpo7oe1 Wondering what else Tektronix is up to? Check out the Tektronix Bandwidth Banter blog and stay up to date on the latest news from Tektronix on Twitter and Facebook. About Tektronix Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Tektronix delivers innovative, precise and easy-to-operate test, measurement and monitoring solutions that solve problems, unlock insights and drive discovery. Tektronix has been at the forefront of the digital age for over 70 years. Join us on the journey of innovation at TEK.COM. Tektronix is a registered trademark of Tektronix, Inc. All other trade names referenced are the service marks, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tektronix-pam4-optical-analysis-solution-for-real-time-oscilloscopes-streamlines-validation-challenges-300520733.html SOURCE Tektronix

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Social media website Gab filed a lawsuit against Google in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleging that the Alphabet-owned company removed the platforms Android app from the Play Store under the false pretense of combating hate speech, consequently violating the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914 and Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890. Gab summarized the contents of its lawsuit in a recent article published on Medium, stating that Google acted in an anti-competitive and monopolistic manner by removing its app from its digital marketplace under the pretext of hate speech but by basing its claims on third-party content.

Gab remains adamant that its platform is open to people of all races and from every background, so long as they share Western values and ideas, particularly the concept of a free information flow. The companys lawsuit accuses Google of stifling a rising competitor which is a direct alternative to its own social media services  Google+ and YouTube. The latter is alleged to be competing directly with Gab TV, a video streaming service which the firm launched on August 1, several weeks before its app was pulled from the Google Play Store. The Mountain View, California-based Internet giant previously sad that Gab was delisted for lacking a level of moderation that was deemed sufficient for a social media platform of its kind, citing its long-standing developer policies. Google said Gab was welcome to revise its practices and appeal the delisting using official channels, whereas the firm says it opted for a more aggressive approach because it believes its case is important for the future of online free speech in general.

Gab is a microblogging platform similar to Twitter and managed by a company of the same name operating from Austin, Texas. The service allows users to send messages up to 300 characters in length and was launched in August 2016 as an alternative to what its creators deemed was a social media landscape which was too left-leaning. The service exited its beta testing phase this May, not long after its App Store listing request was rejected, with Apple citing hate speech as a reason for not wanting to feature the iOS version of the service. Twitter previously blocked Gabs API for an unspecified reason and the network which enjoys some popularity among the loosely defined alt-right demographic is currently primarily funded by its premium Pro subscriptions.
[September 18, 2017] Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market Banks on Legitimate Concern of Cyber Threats Mounting Suggestively Higher - TMR

ALBANY, New York, September 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market is foretold to gain impetus from the enactment of government statutes such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley (GLB) Act which require financial companies to ensure the confidentiality and security of customers' personal data. Such customer data could include social security numbers (SSNs), credit histories, income, account numbers, phone numbers, addresses, and names. Furthermore, a heightened response is expected from financial firms looking at the soaring prevalence and sophistication of cybercrimes since the last decade and a half. The global financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is forecasted to register a CAGR of 14.1% during the forecast timeframe 2017-2022. By 2022 end, the market could post a revenue of US$24.3 bn. In 2017, it earned around US$12.5 bn. Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Major Insights The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisioned to be labeled as a faster and larger-growing one for private sector cybersecurity. Banks and financial institutions such as Bank of America are foreseen to set no bar or constraint on cybersecurity outlay due to the urgency of the time and briskly widening reach of cybercrimes. The American Bankers Association Banking Journal reported in 2016 that cyber-related threats are now ranked higher by CEOs than those associated with energy prices, asset bubbles, and fiscal crisis. Force point, in its 2015 Industry Drill Down Report, claimed that security incidents in the financial services industry occur 300 times more frequently than in other business sectors. The international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is envisaged to award mobile enterprise management as a commanding segment expected to secure a stronger revenue of US$4.7 bn by 2022. However, there could be more markets for financial services cybersecurity systems and services as per solution and services segmentation showing face. These could be endpoit security, identity and access management, mobile security, security information and event management, content security, data loss prevention (DLP), datacenter security, and firewall.



Avail a PDF Sample for this Research Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=30866 According to end user classification, the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market is predicted to offer opportunities in segments such as banking, insurance, credit unions, stock brokerages, stock exchange, investment funds, consumer financing services, payment card and mobile payment services, and government-related financial services.

Regionally, North America is prognosticated to make the cut in the international financial services cybersecurity systems and services market with a revenue of US$7.6 bn prophesied to be garnered by the end of 2022. Other markets such as Europe and Japan could also offer promising prospects in the coming years. Download Report TOC at https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/30866 Global Financial Services Cybersecurity Systems and Services Market: Vendor Landscape Companies operating in the worldwide financial services cybersecurity systems and services market are anticipated to cash in on the opportunities birthing from building robust risk and security management programs for financial institutions. Such programs could help financial firms to empower their IT security while enjoying the confidence to innovate and compete strongly in their business. Vendors such as VMware, Inc., Akamai Technologies, Inc., Alert Logic, Inc., AlienVault, Inc., and Avast Software S.R.O. could be among the top names in the market. The report provides an all-inclusive profile account of each vendor studied. Top Research Report by TMR: Proximity Mobile Payment Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/proximity-mobile-payment-market.html Public Cloud Business Process Services Market:

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/public-cloud-business-process-services-market.html About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The company's exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend 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. TMR's 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

Transparency Market Research

State Tower,

90 State Street,

Suite 700,

Albany NY - 12207

United States

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

Email: [email protected]



Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com TMR Blog: http://www.editiontruth.com/ http://www.techyounme.com/

SOURCE Transparency Market Research

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Emily Ratajkowski Criticizes Magazine For Photoshop

Trending News: Magazine Tries, Fails To Improve Emily Ratajkowski With Photoshop

Quick Take

It must be weird to make a living off your looks. On the one hand, you have a vested interest in preserving your look and the way it's presented, because that's how you drum up more business. On the other, the folks paying you for the use of your image only do so because they're able to use it however they see fit. License someone's image but use it in a way outside the parameters of the contract, and you could wind up in a legal battle. Kim Kardashian's not gonna be happy if a company pays to use her image to promote makeup, only to turn around and instead use it to sell butt plugs (or inflatable butts), or whatever.

That brings us to Emily Ratajkowski, who often finds herself in similar (though less drastic) dust ups over her appearance. Back in July, she raised eyebrows by claiming that her ample breasts were what kept her from getting work  an odd thing to say, since it's not like she's not popping up in a film role or magazine shoot what feels like every other week. In her latest ultra-minor scandal, she's clapping back at French magazine Madame Figaro for what she feels is an unjustified photoshop job. Here's the cover of the magazine from their Instagram:

A post shared by Madame Figaro Paris (@madamefigarofr) on Sep 15, 2017 at 9:46am PDT

And here's what's apparently the untouched original, from Emily's Instagram:

Everyone is uniquely beautiful in their own ways. We all have insecurities about the things that make us different from a typical ideal of beauty. I, like so many of us, try every day to work past those insecurities. I was extremely disappointed to see my lips and breasts altered in photoshop on this cover. I hope the fashion industry will finally learn to stop trying to stifle the things that make us unique and instead begin to celebrate individuality. A post shared by Emily Ratajkowski (@emrata) on Sep 15, 2017 at 8:12am PDT

She's placed the two side by side for comparison, where she says she's "extremely disappointed" that the magazine apparently altered her lips and breasts. I've looked at the two for a good long time, and the enhancements are subtle: they maybe made her lips a little smaller, and in a bizarre move they've squared off her cleavage, making her breasts look smaller, if anything.

There have, definitely, been far more egregious retouching scandals in the past, notably involving women of color and their skintones. Compared to those, this seems pretty minor, and well within the scope of normal things a photo editor might do to massage an image to make it meet their preferred aesthetic.

Then again, it's not my body I have to look at, and I don't have to see it and think that, apparently, whatever I'm working with isn't good enough on its own. To have someone pay you for your photo, and then publish something that scarcely resembles what you see in the mirror, would have to be jarring and disconcerting. Why bother hiring me at all, then?

At the end of the day, we're talking about people who are paid, and paid handsomely, to sit still and have their picture taken. An editor taking one too many creative liberties with your appearance is problematic for all the reasons she's listed, sure, but we're not talking natural disaster-level importance here.

And hey, look at that  now you know that Madame Figaro exists, and Emily Ratajkowski's on the cover of it! Nice how that works out, huh?
Stronger relationship: improved efficiency and challenges to revenue models will be expected but so will a more collaborative relationship between clients and law firms;

Innovation: clients want to be assured that providers of legal services are embracing new business models;

Talent: the use of technology should complement the best human talent.

The rise of artificial intelligence in the legal profession will enable law firms to meet client requirements for collaboration, new ways of service delivery, and talent development.A new report from Herbert Smith Freehills looks at AI from the client perspective and reveals that clients expect their legal services providers to strike the right balance between human and machine capabilities."Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly and is changing the way law firms do business, the way we interact with clients and ultimately, the way we think. The traditional model for delivering legal services is being redefined and clients expect their law firms to deliver more value," says Mark Rigotti, Herbert Smith Freehills CEO.The report shows that clients have strong views on three key uses of artificial intelligence:The full report is available from Herbert Smith Freehills website A team from Norton Rose Fulbright in Sydney and Melbourne have advised international solar energy firm Wirsol on its latest Australian expansion.Wirsol has acquired the 110 MWp Wemen Sun Farm, Victoria, and will build a 770-acre solar facility beginning later this year. The firm entered the market earlier this year when it acquired the 198MWp solar portfolio consisting of the Hamilton, Gannawarra and Whitsunday solar farms.The Norton Rose Fulbright team was led by global head of energy Simon Currie with lawyers including Sydney-based partners Raymond Lou and Noni Shannon; and Melbourne partners Justin Lucas and Elisa de Wit.The new chair of the Global Intellectual Property and Technology Group at Dentons is Song K. Jung.Jung is based in Washington DC and currently heads the firms US IP and tech practice which he has led to become one of the industrys leading practices. He will now lead the 600-strong global practice.Prior to his law career, Jung was an electrical engineer with NASA.Dentons has also announced a new hire for its Singapore unit, Dentons Rodyk & Davidson.Shobna Chandran has joined the Litigation & Dispute Resolution practice as partner. She joins from Clifford Chance Asia with 10 years experience in high value litigation, arbitration and contentious regulatory and advisory work.
TDI

If today's Volkswagen were to meet with pre-September 2015 Volkswagen, the two would nearly have nothing to talk about. Gone are theambitions - best reflected by Audi 's venture into endurance racing - and in came the powertrain electrification and the development of autonomous technology.Volkswagen is still all talk, no show, but considering how much its mouth is moving lately, it's impossible to think it won't act on the promises it makes. At this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, the company showed countless electric concepts (like the VW I.D. Crozz II and the Skoda Mission E), but it also touched heavily on autonomous driving with the likes of the Audi Aicon and Elaine concepts.The Volkswagen Group can't afford to be left behind by the new market trends because even though it managed to get out of the Dieselgate scandal in one piece, it's still quite vulnerable. That's why all brands are chipping in for a homogeneous strategy that would hopefully bring VW back on top in the shortest time possible.Up to this point, it felt like EVs were the highest on the company's agenda, but now self-driving vehicles are starting to catch up. Earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen introduced the Sedric Concept (short for "self-driving car") - a mostly featureless autonomous pod that looks like every other "vehicle of the future" we've seen from the rest of the manufacturers.The Sedric was present once again in Frankfurt, and this time it came accompanied by a promise made by the Group's CEO, Matthias Mueller. The man entrusted to guide Volkswagen out of the Dieselgate scandal said that we should expect to see a fleet of vehicles of various uses based on Sedric roam freely on the streets, and it could happen as soon as 2021."Our team is already working on ideas for a whole Sedric family of fully autonomous vehicles for the city, for luxurious long-range mobility, through self-driving delivery vans and heavy commercial trucks," he said while in Frankfurt, quoted by Automotive News. The prototypes will soon begin testing at the company's plant in Wolfsburg, Germany. There, they will be used to transport employees around, though we expect it will be done on an opt-in basis. The last thing Volkswagen needs now is to be accused of making using its employees as lab rats in case anything goes wrong.
Anyone who knows anything about aviation also knows at least two things about regulations: Theyre written in blood and despite the belief that the FAA devises rules on a whim, the so-called tombstone mentality lives on. The bodies come before the rules, usually, and sometimes it takes a while.

But unless were reminded of it from time to time, most of us dont recall or never knew how much carnage it took to reach the current level of airline safety in which accidents arent quite unheard of, but have become rare. Heres a reminder.

My longtime colleague and freelance writer Paul Berge has written a concise and amusing history describing how we went from a universe plagued by accidents and collisions to the safest mode of transportation in the known universe, including trains, buses and pipelines. The piece appeared in a recent issue of our sister publication, IFR magazine.

As depressing as it is to understand how many accidents it took to reform airline safety, its just as delusional to imagine the current system could have sprung from the industry fully formed from the outset. When practical air transportation came into its own in the late 1920s and through the decade of the 1930s, the industry was writing rules on the fly, so to speak. The CAA didnt even exist, much less the more all-encompassing FAA. The Commerce Department sat on the aviation sidelines, concerning itself mostly with air route designation and eventually charting.

The CAA didnt appear until the eve of World War II, in 1940. People who like to complain about government interference in everything tend to forget that the first air traffic control system was built and operated by the airlines and the government largely neglected oversight until what might be thought of as the Years of the Accidents. Big, gory crashes that made for banner headlines in newspapers, prompting politicians to assure a nervous public that regulation would fix the problem. It often did, too, or at least helped.

Consider one of the bloodiest years of all that you probably dont even know about: 1958. Within months of each other, two military aircraft collided over Los Angeles, killing 50; an Air Force F-100 speared a DC-7 near Las Vegas, killing 49 more; a T-33 collided with a Viscount over Maryland, adding 61 more souls to the body count.

Can you imagine if such a thing happened in 2017? No, you probably cant, such is the safety of the modern NAS. And if three such midairs did occur, the fatalities on just one airplane would far exceed the total for all of 1958. Improvements in air traffic control, reporting requirements, training and aircraft technology began to reshape the system. Yet the tragedies kept coming, including the much-publicized Park Slope accident over New York in 1960. As I related in this blog in 2010, that accident had far-reaching regulatory impact that reverberates yet today. Its the first air crash I remember in vivid detail because the sole survivoran eleven-year-old from Chicago named Stephen Baltzwas my age at the time. Pictures published after the fact revealed an uncanny resemblance between the two of us. The crash occurred at a time when airports had kiosks selling life insurance to departing passengers, such was the fatalistic sentiment toward air travel. Not that it wasnt justified. Today, the idea is risible.

Berges essay shows how history has a way of coming full circle. He quotes a certain Edgar Gorrel, then of the Air Transport Association. When asked of GAs place in the then-emerging privately controlled air traffic system, Gorrel said, Private flying is today a menace. Even the most nave among us probably cant believe that sentiment has changed in the 80 years hence.

While Im touting my friend Berges writing talents, let me flog his new novel, just out. Its called Thats Life, I Guess and is the continuation of the story of barnstorming pilot Jake Hollow, who Berge introduced in his best-selling first novel, Bootleg Skies. Well, so maybe it wasnt a best seller, but it was a great story by a talented writer. While youre at it, order his Private Pilot Manual, a must-have addition to every aviation library.

Correction: Paul informs me he has a new web site and you can find the new book there. Ignore the previous reference.
Following hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the general aviation community distinguished itself by mobilizing to fly disaster-relief supplies and personnel into the affected areas and people and pets out. Being one of the fraction of one percent of our nations population that is a pilot, I watched news coverage of my sister and brother aviators who were donating their time and aircraft to help those in need with pride. Ive always felt that something in the DNA that causes people to become pilots also causes those same people to step up and help others when the crunch comes.

At the risk of being a killjoy in the midst of all of the feel-good coverage, I think that we should take a few minutes to examine, and frankly discuss, the dark side of disaster relief flown by volunteerand use a word not well likedamateurpilots. Of concern to me is that unless the pilot has been trained for dealing with the potential hazards of disaster relief flyingphysical and legalrushing off to the airport to untie the family airplane and fly to the rescue can potentially result in the pilot going from hero to goat. Not fully understanding what is involved in volunteering your pilot skills and airplane for disaster relief can lead to unpleasantness that runs the gamut from a violation action by the FAA; being in the crosshairs of an IRS action for tax evasion; getting stuck at a remote airport with your airplane but no possibility of fuel for weeks all the way up through tearing up your airplane due to hazards you hadnt run into before and then finding out that your insurance wont cover the loss because you violated a condition of the policy.

The FAA and NTSB have been watching volunteer/public benefit flying carefully for some years. Both have expressed concerns about its safetyand neither backs off just because there has been a natural disaster.

As background, for over 70 years general aviation pilots have been volunteering their time, skills and airplanes to help others by providing free flights. Its referred to as public benefit flying (PBF) and it has saved lives and delivered a lot of urgently needed supplies following disasters. Most pilots make their volunteer disaster relief flights in conjunction with a volunteer pilot organization (VPO) that functions as a clearinghouse to match the flights with the need. The VPO also provides guidance and training for the volunteer pilot for the specialized nature of the flying expected. For over 20 years, the Air Care Alliance (ACA) has operated as an umbrella organization that supports the activities of all VPOs, not just those involved in disaster relief. It is the go-to organization for pilots who wish to volunteer their time and airplanes and are looking for a suitable VPO to coordinate with for volunteer flights.

The specialized VPO for disaster relief is EVAC: The Emergency Volunteer Air Corps. Its guidance for emergency response is here.

Full disclosure, I have been a volunteer pilot with various VPOs for nearly 30 years and a member of the board of directors of the ACA for over 10.

Theres a memorable line in the book M*A*S*H where Dr. Hawkeye Pierce comes unglued over the problems caused by well-meaning people trying to help wounded soldiers but because of their lack of knowledge cause even more problemshe refers to them as amateurs in the do-gooder businesssomething general aviation pilots never want to be. After a disaster, the pros come in and do what theyre trained to dohelp the victims. Because there arent enough pros to do all thats needed to be done, volunteers who know what they are doing are badly needed to help. Thats where general aviation comes in. Airports are the lifelines of communities when things go down the toilet and roads are closed because of damage or debris. A mile of runway or taxiway can be made useable much faster than a collapsed bridge can be cleared from atop a road or rebuilt.

General aviation airplanes, flown by pilots who know what they are about, can takeoff and land from a narrow strip of grass or taxiway, bringing in badly needed supplies and evacuating those who need to get out.

So, Whats the Big Deal?

Most general aviation pilots can probably safely use a runway thats 40 feet wide and 2500 feet long. But can they do so when theyve never seen the runway before, theres debris piled along the edges, theres a strong crosswind and the airplane is loaded to gross weight?

Oh, yeah, and plan on there being a bazillion (conservative estimate) disaster relief TFRs that youll have to get authorization to fly through while working with controllers who may or may not have radar and are trying to separate a jillion (even more conservative estimate) aircraft using the position reporting procedure called out in the FARs that pilots havent even thought about since the ink was drying on their instrument rating. As an aside, the times that Ive had to deal with TFR clearances and penetration of disaster areas, I was fervently glad that I was flying for a recognized public benefit flying organization that had a team at its home base who was keeping track of TFRs as they popped up, getting me the necessary approvals and clearances to fly through them and keeping me briefed on the details. The workload was higher than comfortable much of the time. One portion included dealing with three different controllers within a 15-mile stretch.

This disaster season brought a new hazard: Drones. Despite the FAAs best efforts, the knucklehead population is out in full force. Theyre ignoring the 400-foot max altitude and line-of-site restrictions as they position their camera-bearing mosquitoes where they will present maximum interference to legitimate flight ops. After all, thats where one captures the social media video that gets the most likes and status for the operator. And, hey, he took a great deal of risk exposing himself to daylight outside of his folks basement to get that video, hes entitled, right?

The drones are out thereare a mid-air hazard and can shut down operations without warningone of the reasons to make sure youve got fuel aboard for times when weirdness hits.

Legal Matters

A big gotcha for pilots who want to help out by volunteering to fly for disaster relieve is that while they are doing something to help others, they still must comply with the Federal Aviation Regulations. The FARs were written to protect innocent passengers, the property of innocent people and innocent people and property on the groundnot to protect pilots or make them happy. That has to be the starting point for any pilot checking to see whether he or she can make volunteer flights to support disaster relieve.

The Biggest Gotcha: A pilot flying under Part 91 for disaster relief must pay for the FULL cost of the flight out of his or her own pocket (if there are two pilots, they can split the cost). Unless there is an express exception via a waiver to the FARs held by the VPO from the FAA and including the pilot, the volunteer pilot absolutely cannot accept any form or reimbursement or payment for the cost that flight. The law is absolutely clearthe FAA didnt come to the world of volunteer flying and disaster relief yesterday.

This discussion of reimbursement for flights is abbreviatedfor a detailed examination, please see the ACAs Information Letter of March 2017 on the subject.

In the wake of Harvey and Irma, Ive seen a number of pop-up public benefit flying organizations seeking to help with disaster relief advertising for pilots and airplanes as well as for donations to pay for the cost of the flights. Ive also seen well-meaning partners of pilots set up GoFundMe accounts to raise money to reimburse the pilot for the cost of the flights. If you are a pilot making volunteer flights for disaster relief under Part 91, you cannot accept any offered reimbursement. The moment you accept reimbursement or compensation for a flight, you cross the line from Part 91 into Part 135 for hire operations. Unless you are a pilot who has gone through the training and checkrides to be on a Part 135 operators certificate and your airplane has also gone through the required maintenance inspections to be put on that Part 135 certificate, the moment you accept any money for a flighteven reimbursement for some portion of the cost of the flightyou are making an illegal Part 135 flight.

Part 135 operators are hired to make disaster relief flightslots of them. Disaster relief takes all the airlift available. The ones I know recognize and admire volunteer flight operations for disaster relief (and some of the operators and pilots donate their time for disaster relief). What they do not appreciate are volunteers who are getting compensated for their flights and who havent gone through the hoops to qualify as Part 135 operatorsthats taking food out of the mouth of the Part 135 operator. Angering a legitimate air taxi operator by competing unfairly with him is a good way to motivate that operator to go to the FAA with a formal complaint that will result in a violation action against the volunteer pilot who was getting reimbursed. While we really are in a kinder-gentler FAA world with regard to pursuing violations against pilots who make innocent mistakespilots are expected to know the regs and taking money to make a flight is not an innocent mistake. Plan on the FAA taking action.

Insurance

Worse still is that a volunteer who accepts money may well have voided his insurance coverage. When the pilot bought insurance for her or his airplane, the pilot entered into a contract with the insurance company telling the company what use would be made of the airplaneand the insurance company priced the policy accordingly. Every owner that I know who flies under Part 91 signs an insurance contract agreeing not to use the airplane in for hire or charter or air taxi or Part 135 operations (take your pick). If the pilot then accepts reimbursement for volunteer disaster relief flights, hits a damaged bit of runway on landing and groundloops into the airport fence, theres a good chance that the insurance company will legitimately refuse to pay the claim because the pilot was flying for hire.

There are circumstances in which a volunteer pilot can receive fuel reimbursement, and only fuel reimbursement, from a public benefit flying organizationhowever, it takes work and time to set up. The organization has to obtain a waiver from the FAA and the pilot has to go through the training prescribed by the waiver and both the pilot and organization have to comply with record-keeping requirements. Its a good, although unwieldy systembut it also means that a pilot who wants to get fuel reimbursement when flying disaster relief has to get together with a public benefit flying organization well before the disaster happens to get the needed training and comply with paperwork requirements.

Bottom line, if you see a volunteer group seeking pilots and airplanes and raising money for cost of the flight reimbursement, be very careful. The group is advertising that its a clueless newbie to the world of disaster relief and may have other bad habits that can get you into serious troubleespecially with regard to dispatching you into restricted airspace you dont know about, insisting you fly over gross or not getting and giving you vital information about the conditions at your destination. Above all, if you make a volunteer flight and someone offers to reimburse you for some or all of the costs, politely decline. You cant accept the money and you never know when youre being set up. Video cameras are everywhere.

The FAA has not ruled on the question of whether a volunteer pilot can take advantage of a fuel discount offered by an FBO to volunteer operations. A discount is not a kickback, so its not illegal in that form. By comparison, federal employees may not accept bribes or payments, however, they are not prevented from buying groceries or clothing that is on salediscountedor negotiating the purchase price of an automobile. I dont have enough information on the subject of FBO fuel discounts to volunteer pilots to have an opinion, but Ive also searched such enforcement material as is available, and I cannot find an indication that the FAA has proceeded against a volunteer pilot who purchased fuel at a discount. The FAA has violated volunteer pilots who were reimbursed for fuel, so that might be where the FAA draws the line on the subject.

Again, for a detailed discussion of what constitutes volunteer flight versus illegal Part 135 operations, see the ACA Information Letter.

Also, if you want to fly for a disaster relief organization that will training you and not only reimburse fuel, but provide the airplane, one of the best VPOs is the Civil Air Patrol.

Finally, on the fuel reimbursement issue, The Air Care Alliance, AOPA and others have been working with the FAA and Congress to try and change the rules because it would serve to allow many more volunteer flights that are badly neededwere not sitting on our hands.

Safety and Operational Issues

Before leaping into the family airplane, find out what VPOs are involved in disaster relief in the area youre interested and contact them to see which best fits what you want to do and can do. Make your search through the Air Care Alliance, the umbrella organization that supports all public benefit flying organizations and EVAC, the specialized disaster relief VPO

and read up what it has to say about the status of disaster relief as it usually has the most up to date information for volunteer pilots. Take the very well done AOPA interactive course Public Benefit Flying: Balancing Safety and Compassion. As an aside, completing that course is required to fly for most reputable public benefit flying organizations.

Once youve done your homework and are getting ready to go, go into the process with a certain humilitya responsible PBF organization is going to require that you get some degree of training before you launch on your first flight. You are not Sky King there to rescue the world from fools and incompetentsmost of the folks youll be meeting have done this before and youll want to learn from their mistakes and follow their guidance.

Take a look at the guidelines set out recently by Patient Airlift Services, I think they are some of the best Ive run acrossIve added some comments:

Coordinate all flights with a disaster relief charityideally one that is or is working closely with a PBF organization. Operate with two pilotswho have briefed how to work together and understand CRM. Stay on top of NOTAMS and TFRsthey can change astonishingly fast. Its one of the reasons that having a home base with people qualified to stay up to date on such changes is important to a volunteer pilot. Ive had debris close the runway after I departed toward that single-runway airport. I had the NOTAM relayed to me in the air so I didnt waste fuel flying all the way there and then spend time wondering whether I should hold until the runway was cleared. Experience is keywhen things go downhill, pilots who have seen a similar situation before do far better than those who are experiencing it for the first time. Join a disaster relief organization and get training so youll be ready and able to help effectively rather than thrashing around when the next one hitsit will. Operate aircraft with traffic avoidance systems. There is going to be a LOT of traffic. Be prepared for mechanical problemshave parts and tools for the most likely breakdowns. You are supposed to be helpingyou dont want to wind up as someone who needs help. Avoid unnecessary flights. This is not the time for sightseers. Prepare for uncertain ground conditions. Where are you going to sleep? You may arrive at an airport under military control. You may have to deal with security issues on the ground. There may be evacuees at the airport asking for transportation. Be prepared. Recognize the end of mission. One of the most important things a community can do after a disaster is to resume normal economic operations. An abundance of donated supplies or donated flights can cause disruptions to normal local commerce.

In my opinion, the best way for a general aviation pilot who wants to help people affected by the current disasters is to immediately join one of the disaster relief VPOs and get trained for the next one. It will be coming to a location near you when you least expect it. If youre trained, youll be taking action while others are still wondering how they can help.

Rick Durden is an aviation attorney who has been a volunteer pilot for PBF organizations for nearly 30 years. He holds an ATP with type ratings in the Douglas DC-3 and Cessna Citation and is the author of The Thinking Pilots Flight Manual or, How to Survive Flying Little Airplanes and Have a Ball Doing It, Vols. 1 & 2.
Rouhani speaks at a session of parliament before a vote of confidence for his cabinet, in Tehran, Iran this August. Photo: Vahid Salemi / AP

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani told CNN's Christiane Amanpour that if Trump follows through on his threats to nix the nuclear deal, America would pay "such a high cost."

"Exiting such an agreement would carry a high cost for the United States of America, and I do not believe Americans would be willing to pay such a high cost for something that will be useless for them."

Rouhani added that exiting the deal would "chip away at international trust placed in the" U.S. This weekend Rouhani told police officers in Tehran that the Trump administration's rhetoric "amounts to bullying."

Context: The Trump administration last week re-approved sanctions waivers for Iran as part of the deal. The deadline to re-certify the deal as a whole, however, is coming mid-October. Rouhani's comments come as world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly, which Trump and Rouhani are both attending.
National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster said the situation with North Korea is growing increasingly urgent to Fox News' Chris Wallace on Sunday.

Highlights from the interview:
In this unverified image from the North Korean government, Kim Jong-un is said to inspect loading of a hydrogen bomb into an ICBM, at unknown location (Korean Central News Agency / Korea News Service, via AP)

Forget DACA or tax reform. One topic consumes the vast majority of President Trump's inner circle: North Korea.

Contrary to the president's breezy tweet this morning, in which he refers to Kim Jong-un as "Rocket Man," top administration officials have a dark view of how this plays out. They believe the confrontation with Pyongyang's portly dictator will define Trump's first term in office.

The consensus view among Trump, Mattis and McMaster, according to several officials briefed on their thinking, is that this conflict is heading towards two options, both with high risks: escalated confrontation with China and the military option.

1. Direct pressure on China:

Administration officials believe it will take intense financial sanctions and tariffs to pressure the Chinese to do a lot more to choke off the North Korean economy. The Chinese insist in private they don't have has much clout as the U.S. thinks. The Trump administration thinks that's nonsense.

Officials are waiting to see how the latest United Nations sanctions agreement affects North Korean behavior, but if the regime keeps firing rockets and testing nukes, watch for escalated tension with China. Especially over Beijing's refusal to stop exporting oil to North Korea  a remaining pressure point that's preoccupying Trump's national security team.

2. The military option(s):

If pressure on China fails and North Korea gets close to having a nuclear missile that can hit any U.S. state, top officials insist they will take action.

Trump sounded the war drums early on because he was told this is a very live, if super dangerous and difficult, option.

Officials have not laid out to us how this could unfold without putting millions of South Koreans and thousands of Americans at risk for deadly retribution.

Note of caution: Trump hasn't yet concluded that he needs to take extreme measures against China. The national security team still believes there's room to bring more pressure to bear on North Korea and the clients supporting the state before launching a full-scale economic confrontation against China.

Alaska's Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, whose state is likely within Kim Jong-un's missile range already, told me he believes Congress should invest more heavily in missile defense and work on legislation to approve "a preventive ground war by the U.S. on the Korean Peninsula."

"The model there is either the first Gulf War or the Second Gulf War," Sullivan said in an interview Saturday. He said Trump would need this congressional authority  an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF)  to abide by the Constitution but it also makes sense politically and diplomatically.

Politically, because he believes the White House should want the American people to endorse, via their congressional representatives, such a momentous decision as a Second Korean War. An AUMF would also, Sullivan argues, "provide the administration with additional leverage as they're trying to resolve this in a way without going to war."

Sullivan said he raised this issue with the administration but didn't want to get into details of the discussions. (An official I spoke to Sunday cautioned that such an AUMF is not on the administration's radar.)

Sullivan said missile defense is the other crucial component of the North Korea policy, "not just in the region but our own homeland." He said the new National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)  the law specifying the Defense Department's policy priorities  that should pass either Monday or Tuesday, "has real big plus-ups for missile defense for the homeland."

"Alaska has the element of being on the front lines but also protecting the rest of the nation," due to its missile defense, Sullivan said. "If [Kim Jong-un] knows there's no way he's going to get it through, even a madman won't do it."
Trump meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Palace Hotel during the United Nations General Assembly. Photo: Evan Vucci / AP

Moments before kicking off a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, President Trump said he thinks there's a "good chance" of peace between the Palestinians and Israelis, adding, "people say it can't happen, I say it can happen."

On Iran, Netanyahu praised Trump for calling the nuclear pact a "terrible" deal and said he wanted to discuss how to reign in Iran's "growing aggression in the region." Trump has until mid October to determine whether his administration will move to re-certify the nuclear deal.

Go deeper: The Iranian president said the U.S. will pay a "high cost" if the nuclear deal collapses
Emmanuel Macron and Trump shake hands as they look on at the Bastille Day military parade in Paris. Photo: Christophe Archambault, Pool via AP

Before meeting with French president Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, President Trump announced he is talking with Chief of Staff John Kelly about hosting a military parade down Pennsylvania Avenue on the 4th of July after watching France's Bastille Day parade.

Quote: "It was military might and, I think, a terrific thing for France, for the spirit of France. People don't know what great warriors they are in France, but when you see that and you see all the victories it was a tremendous thing. To a large extent because of what I witnessed, we may do something like that on July 4th."

Flashback: Trump asked for military vehicles to partake in his inaugural parade, but that didn't pan out.

About the meeting: Macron mentioned he would like to talk about nuclear proliferation as well as moving forward on the Paris Accord.
U.S. and NATO soldiers take part in a ceremony to commemorate the Sept. 11, 2001 in Kabul, Afghanistan. Photo: Rahmat Gul / AP

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told reporters in the Pentagon that the U.S. is planning to send more than 3,000 additional troops to Afghanistan, per Reuters.

"It is exactly over 3,000 somewhat and frankly I haven't signed the last of the orders right now as we look at specific, small elements that are going."  Secretary Mattis

This comes about a month after Trump announced his plans to carry forward the war. There are already about 11,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan.

Go deeper: Trump's plan for Afghanistan.

This has been updated with Secretary Mattis' full quote.
Armenias government will encourage ethnic Armenians living abroad to relocate to their historical homeland in an effort to address its demographic problems, President Serzh Sarkisian said on Monday.

Sarkisian urged Armenian Diaspora organizations to assist in that endeavor as he addressed hundreds of their representatives attending a government-organized conference in Yerevan. He also renewed his calls for greater Diaspora investments in the struggling Armenian economy.

We note that demographic trends in our country are extremely concerning and result from many objective and subjective factors of the last 25 years, he said in a long speech delivered at the Sixth Armenia-Diaspora Conference. In the coming years, our efforts will be aimed at speeding up the natural growth of Armenias population and substantially changing the emigration-to-immigration ratio.

We have declared that our goal is to ensure that Armenia has at least 4 million residents by 2040. Obviously we would have trouble attaining that goal only by increasing the birth rate, prolonging life expectancy and taking other steps to improve the demographic picture.

The ambitious goal, he went on, also requires achieving serious indicators of immigration into Armenia in the next 25 years. In my view, the realization of this objective will be the main subject of the next Armenia-Diaspora conferences, he said.

I believe that we are ripe for seriously discussing the issue of organizing repatriation, declared Sarkisian.

There are an estimated 8 million to 9 million ethnic Armenians around the world. Only up to 3 million of them live in Armenia. Most of the others reside in Russia, the United States, Europe and the Middle East.

Throughout Sarkisians nearly decade-long rule, scores of Armenias citizens have continued to leave their country for primarily economic reasons. Opposition politicians and other critics of the Armenian government blame the emigration on what they see as the Sarkisian administrations failed economic policies and unwillingness to enforce the rule of law in the country.

Some participants of the forum were skeptical about Sarkisians statement, saying that the authorities in Yerevan should ease socioeconomic hardship in Armenia and stop people leaving the country before setting such demographic targets.

I dont believe in utopias, said Stepan Hovakimian, a representative of the Armenian labor unions in Los Angeles. I only believe in real work.

Thirty thousand Syrian Armenians came to Armenia. How many of them stayed here? said Vasken Kasemjian, head of the Social Democrat Hnchakian Party in Britain. There are still problems in Gyumri. More than 25 years have passed since the [1988] earthquake but there are still homeless people there.

Let them solve those problems before speaking of grandiose programs, he added.

In his speech, Sarkisian again called on wealthy entrepreneurs from the Diaspora to invest in Armenia. All necessary conditions for doing that and the right business environment have been created in Armenia, he claimed.

Greater Diaspora investments in the Armenian economy have been hampered by the countrys flawed business environment. While some wealthy ethnic Armenian entrepreneurs from Russia, the United States and other parts of the world have set up shop in the country, many others have been scared away by government corruption and a lack of judicial independence.

Those problems are apparently not on the agenda of the Diaspora-Armenia conference that got underway on Monday.Representatives of Armenias main opposition groups were not invited to participate in the forum.

Nikol Pashinian, a leader of the opposition Yelk bloc, condemned the snub. This and several other facts prove that the event is meant to be a PR stunt by Serzh Sarkisian, he claimed.
A member of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Nagorno-Karabakh on Monday about two weeks after helping to ensure continued U.S. government funding for humanitarian demining operations conducted there by a British charity.

Representatives of the HALO Trust reportedly briefed the congressman, David Valadao, on their land-clearing activities in Karabakh that began 16 years ago.

The organization has since cleared around 90 percent of the territorys minefields dangerously close to civilian areas. It has destroyed more than 11,000 anti-personnel and anti-tank landmines mostly left over from the 1991-1994 Armenian-Azerbaijani war. The U.S. Congress has financed the effort as part of its direct humanitarian assistance to Karabakh allocated over strong Azerbaijani objectives.

Earlier this month, the House of Representatives accepted Valadaos proposal to allocate another $1.5 million to the HALO Trusts demining program in Karabakh. The measure was also strongly backed by several other pro-Armenian lawmakers, notably Ed Royce, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

It is a grave reality that families in Nagorno Karabakh live under the very real threat of landmine accidents each and every day, Valadao said on September 7. However, with the funding secured in my amendment, I am optimistic significant strides will be made to ensure the region is landmine free by 2020.

A Republican from California, Valadao is a member of the congressional Armenian Caucasus. His constituency is home to a large number of Armenian Americans.

The congressman travelled to Karabakh together with Raffi Hamparian, the chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), a Washington-based lobbying group.

An ANCA statement said Valadao will join five other U.S. lawmakers on Thursday in attending official ceremonies in Yerevan to mark the 26th anniversary of Armenias independence.
18 September 2017 13:33 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

The Armenian economy is very close to the turning point where collapse begins in earnest.

A number of studies and statistics show that the standard of living in Armenia is very low, while the rates of unemployment and poverty are extremely high.

But, surprisingly the Armenian government has published a report on economic growth, stressing that the growth is satisfactory. This caused bewilderment and irritation of ordinary Armenians and experts.

The authorities have always stated that there is an economic growth, but in reality, if there is something that is growing in Armenia, it is immigration  nothing else shows growth, said Anush Sedrakyan, publicist and political scientist.

I once asked where this economic growth is, and they said: well, the income of the rich is growing up, she noted in her recent interview with 1in.am. The incomes of some oligarchs, the rich, maybe have increased. However, the gross income is primarily determined by the increase in economic status of citizens, but not by the wealth of four or five oligarchs.

Sedrakyan further noted that there was no government in Armenia which did not resorted to tricks and did not hide the deteriorating economic situation by cheerful, optimistic statement.

Everyone should feel the improvement of the economic situation in the country, she said. However, Armenians cannot feel this improvement as it doesnt exist. In contrast, peoples living standards continue worsening. I am Yerevan State University lecturer, our salaries have been reduced because there are no students.

Answering the question why parliamentary factions do not raise the issue of resignation of the government, she noted that even if the government or the president will resign, there is no guarantee that they will be replaced by a better government or president.

Thus, Armenians do not even expect a change for better in their country. If so, the situation in Armenia will not improve in the foreseeable future, as the current government has not been able to deal with the countrys problems for many years.

---

Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 10:36 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

Entrepreneurs of Indian Marathi Bandhkam Vyavasayik Association (MBVA) got acquainted with the Baku White City project, within the framework of India-Azerbaijan Construction Business Forum.

They were informed about the project and ongoing construction work. They were informed that, the area, for many years known as "Black City" and polluted with oil products, ecologically completely cleared. In accordance with the new development project, the world's most up-to-date large living center is being created there, administrative and commercial facilities, recreational and tourism centers are being built.

The masterplan for Baku White City aims to transform the area into a brand new, high quality urban quarter, acting as a catalyst for the regeneration of the city and the wider region.

The project is one of the major urban-planning projects carried out in Azerbaijan in respect of Decree of the President of the Azerbaijan Republic, Ilham Aliyev, entitled to Comprehensive action plan for improving the ecological conditions in the Azerbaijan Republic during 2006 - 2010 and according to the order of the Executive Power of Baku City dated June 11, 2007.

Head of the delegation, President of the Association Mr. Gajendra Pawar emphasized the interest of Indian businessmen in Baku White City project.

Pawar further stressed that the visit of Indian delegation aims to get acquainted with the construction sector in Azerbaijan and to expand investment ties between the two countries.

The India-Azerbaijan Construction Business Forum organized by the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers') Organizations of Azerbaijan kicked off last week.

Last year the trade and economic exchanges between India and Azerbaijan progressed from strength to strength, increasing by 63 percent in 2016 as compared to 2015.

India has recently facilitated the visa application procedures for Azerbaijan.

From now on, Azerbaijani nationals would be able to get online e-Visa for visits to India for recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, short duration medical treatment or casual business.

--

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 11:07 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

Stronger economic conditions are driving Azerbaijani businesses to look at international expansion and grab market share. The local businesses are looking to expand abroad in a bid to access new markets for their products and services.

The country is studying the possibility of exporting its products to markets of 34 countries, said Sahil Babayev, the Deputy Economy Minister.

We want to not only ensure the sale of our products abroad, but also assess the future [export] potential. We received various requests from local entrepreneurs, based on which we started analyzing 34 foreign markets, he said at a press conference on September 16 in Baku.

He went on to say that ads of Azerbaijani products will be broadcast on foreign TV channels from October, adding that Azerbaijani products will also be advertised on various websites, radio and other media.

Babayev underlined that from next year it will be possible to advertise local products in Duty Free zones at international airports. Talks are underway with Azerbaijan Airlines and the state company SOCAR in this regard.

Thus, stands with products under the Made in Azerbaijan brand will appear in local airports and Azerbaijani products will be sold at SOCARs filling stations in foreign countries.

Babayev further informed that export missions were organized to China, the UAE, Germany, Pakistan, Qatar, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan within the promotion of the Made in Azerbaijan brand.

As of today, 92 trademarks of Azerbaijan are protected under the Made in Azerbaijan brand, while the countrys total outputs nears 250 kinds of products in food, light, heavy and construction industries. The brand is highly successful in regional and world markets, and Azerbaijans local output meets all the necessary standards.

The Economy Ministry prepared proposals to expand the list of products covered by the export promotion mechanism.

Together with the Exporters Club [of Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation-AZPROMO] and representatives of business associations, we prepared new proposals that have already been submitted to the government, Babayev added.

The state refunds 3-6 percent of the customs value of goods to non-oil exporters within the framework of mechanisms on promoting exports of non-oil products.

About 2 million manats ($1.17 million) has been returned to Azerbaijani exporters since early 2017, as a part of the mechanism for refunding part of the costs when exporting non-oil products.

Further Babayev stressed that Azerbaijans Economy Ministry has prepared proposals on improvement of the mechanism for suspension of business activity inspection.

I want to note that the moratorium [on business activity inspection] has had a very positive result, as we were repeatedly told by entrepreneurs. However, we identified a number of negative cases, and decided to improve this mechanism, he noted.

Babayev said that despite the suspension of business activity inspection, entrepreneurs must maintain the quality of their products and services rendered.

We must maintain a balance between keeping the quality of manufactured products and supporting entrepreneurship development. New proposals will consider these points, he added.

The inspection of entrepreneurs' activities in Azerbaijan has been suspended for the period of two years from November 1, 2015. The exceptions from the law include check-ups which are held by State Commission to Combat Corruption under Prosecutor Generals Office, as well as cases which endanger health or life, pose hazards to the state security or economic interests.

Azerbaijan increased non-oil exports by 30 percent in January-August 2017 compared to the same period of 2016.

Export of agricultural products increased by 37 percent, while export of industrial products increased by 25.4 percent.

Along with rising exports, the range of products delivered abroad is expanding  during the year, this figure rose by 16.6 percent.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 15:23 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

History knows a lot of great masters of word, brush, and music, who showed their talent in a particular area of artistic creativity. But we also know such masters, whose talents are extremely versatile, what is quite a rare phenomenon.

Uzeyir Hajibeyli  Father of Azerbaijani classic music - is that rare phenomenon, who crated magic with music and words.

Uzeyir Hajibeyli is the pride of not only the musical art of Azerbaijan, but also literature. For more than 45 years, he worked tirelessly, with exceptional consistency and truly classical scope, which is inherent only in great artists. He developed Azerbaijani music, laid the foundations for new forms, primarily operas and operettas and enriched the world's musical treasures with his ever-living works.

Hajibeyli is the founder of Azerbaijani professional music, the creator of the composer school, the genre of musical comedy in Azerbaijan.

History recognizes Hajibeyli as an innovator as well as the first to establish a professional music school and Orchestra for Traditional Folk Instruments, to compose the Muslim worlds first opera and operetta, to introduce a woman on stage, to write the countrys national anthem (which is the official anthem of Azerbaijan today), to be awarded the highest artistic title of the Soviet Union.

In 1908, Uzeyir wrote his first work - the opera "Leyli and Majnun", which became the first opera in the whole East and opened a new page in the history of Azerbaijani music.

The idea of the Azerbaijani opera was born in the heart of Uzeyir at age 13, when he watched a dramatization of the story of Majnun at Leyli's Tombstone in Shusha.

Remembering the occasion, Hajibayli wrote, "That performance affected me so much that when I came to Baku years later, I decided to write something like that."

The 22 year-old Hajibeyli eventually accomplished a brilliant feat of music, composing the first opera of the Muslim East based on the story of Leyli and Majnun. A Romeo & Juliet-esque story of love that premiered in 1908, the opera was set to poetic verses by the 12th century poet Nizami and later by 16th century poet Fuzuli.

The Leyli and Majnun laid the foundations of mugham opera and national opera in general.

Hajibeyli later recalled, At that time, I knew only the basics of sol-fa, and had no idea of harmony, counterpoint, and musical forms ... However, the success of Leili and Majnun was great. In my opinion, it gained popularity thanks to the fact that the Azerbaijani people had expected the appearance of Azerbaijani opera at the stage. And the opera combined authentic folk music and a popular classic story.

The success of Leyli and Majnun encouraged Hajibeyli to write more operas, fusing eastern and western styles.

In 1909, Hajibeyli wrote his second opera Sheikh Sanan. In contrast to Sheikh Sanan, his operas Rustam and Sohrab (1910), Asli and Karam (1912), Shah Abbas and Khurshudbanu (1912), and Harun and Leyli (1915) were entirely based on national folk music elements, primarily mugham.

The "Koroghlu" opera is truly the best example of the composers creativity; an original masterpiece in which he has expressed in the musical form ideas that excited him like the heroics of the famed Koroghlu himself. This opera won love of all Azerbaijani people in a short time and marked a new stage in development of the Azerbaijan art.

In Koroghlu", the composer managed to very realistically portray the peoples struggle for freedom and independence and create bright and historically truthful national images.

The composer describes his work at the opera: "While working on Koroghlu, I have put before myself an object to create a national opera using the achievements of modern musical culture. To put forth such an idea, the composer was required to undergo not only serious theoretical preparation, but also a deep understanding of national creativity, mastering of that style, which enables us to speak with people in an understandable language... It was important to penetrate the opera with breath of national music."

"Arshin Mal Alan" or The Cloth Peddler was the latest and one of the most popular operettas of the eminent composer. The comedic and romantic operetta premiered in Azerbaijan in 1913, thus becoming the first operetta in the entire Muslim world.

"Arshin Mal Alan" become one of the most well-known and dearly-loved stories among Azerbaijanis. The operetta has been successfully performed in a plethora of languages in over 60 countries of the world, including in U.S, Austria, France, China, Greece, India, Russia, and Turkey.

Hajibayli established Azerbaijans first Folk Instrumental Orchestra in 1931 under the aegis of the Azerbaijan Radio Committee. This orchestra of traditional string instruments such as the tar and kamancha performed composed music, as well as traditional improvised music. Hajibayli was also closely involved in the creation of the State Symphony Orchestra which was named in his honor after his death.

Hajibeyli also frequently wrote articles, topical satire and satirical cartoons for Molla Nasraddin magazine, Kaspi and other newspapers. His material tackled political and social problems and the need for education.

Uzeyir played an active part in the formation of the first democratic republic in Azerbaijan (1918-20). He was the editor of the official newspaper Azerbaijan.

The composer was working on the opera Firuza in his latter years but failed to complete it before his death. Young composer Ismayil Hajibayov finished the piece.

September 18 - birthday of the great composer - is celebrated as the National Music Day.

--

Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 13:50 (UTC+04:00)

The Contact Group of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will discuss the issue of settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Armenias aggression against Azerbaijan on the sidelines of another session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The OIC reported that the discussions will be held on September 19.

During its summit in Istanbul in April 2016, the OIC made a decision to establish a contact group for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which included the foreign ministers of the OIC member-states. The decision was made at Turkeys initiative.

The first meeting of the OIC Contact Group in connection with Armenias aggression against Azerbaijan will be held at the level of foreign ministers as part of the general debates at the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly.

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.

--

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 17:08 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is one of the biggest problems for Azerbaijan just as much as for Turkey, Turkish envoy Erkan Ozoral said on September 15.

He made the remarks at an event dedicated to the 99th anniversary of the liberation of Baku by the Islamic Army of the Caucasus from the Bolshevik-Dashnak occupation.

The ambassador noted that Turkey and Azerbaijan have always been brotherly and friendly countries. Turkey has always supported and will support Azerbaijan, he added.

Ozoral said that graves of Turkish soldiers can be found in many parts of Azerbaijan.

Preservation of these graves to this day became possible thanks to the Azerbaijani people. Even during the Soviet times, Azerbaijanis preserved these burials as the graves of their relatives and brothers, he noted.

In 1917, after the collapse of the Russian Empire, the Azerbaijani people had a real chance to gain national statehood. However, Armenian chauvinists with the support of the Bolsheviks under different pretexts unleashed a massacre and embarked on interference, threatening the independence of Azerbaijan.

Atrocities, committed by Bolsheviks and Armenians against Azerbaijanis in 1918 forced leaders of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic to turn to fraternal Turkey. Whereas Turkey was defeated in the WWI, but it did not spare help to its brothers and, therefore, Caucasus Islamic Army of Turkey under the command of Nuru Pasha was sent to Azerbaijan. Thus, on September 15 Turkish troops liberated Baku from the occupation.

Turkey also became the first state to recognize Azerbaijan, which declared its independence in 1991. Turkey contributes to efforts aimed at the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty through peaceful means.

Ankara has repeatedly stated that the OSCE Minsk Group needs to intensify the search for solutions to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and offered its assistance in this matter.

Ozoral also touched upon joint military exercises of Azerbaijani and Turkish Air Forces titled TurAz Qartal  2017. He stressed that these drills show once again that the Azerbaijani-Turkish cooperation is developing also in the military sphere and is at the highest level.

The exercises that will last until September 30 involve up to 30 aircrafts of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey, including MiG-29, F-16, Su-25, C-130 Herkules, CASA CN-235 aircrafts, as well as Mi-35, Mi-17 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters.

---

Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 10:43 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

A joint flight and tactical exercises of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey have been launched.

The exercises, that will last until September 30, will involve up to 30 aircrafts of the Air Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey, including MiG-29, F-16, Su-25, C-130 Herkules, CASA CN-235 aircrafts, as well as Mi-35, Mi-17 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters.

Baku welcomed the first group of flight and engineering-technical staff of the Turkish Air Force on September 14. Another group of Turkish military aviation arrived in Azerbaijan on the next day, and F-16 Fighter aircrafts of Turkish Air Force arrived on September 16.

Azerbaijan and Turkey enjoy strategic relations in many fields, including the military sphere. Military cooperation between the brotherly countries dates back to 1992 when they signed an agreement on military education. Since then, the Azerbaijani and Turkish governments have been closely cooperating in both defense and security fields.

So far, the Azerbaijani and Turkish armed forces have hold regular drills, featuring various tactical and combat tasks both on Turkish and Azerbaijani territories.

This May, joint exercises of the two countries Armed Forces were held in Azerbaijan. The aim of the exercises was to improve coordination through the exchange of experience between the Armed Forces, as well as to achieve the interoperability of the military units of the two countries through joint headquarters planning, improving the readiness and capabilities of the units to conduct operations.

Later, in June, the two countries had military exercises in Nakhchivan.

---

Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 12:53 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

Large-scale military exercises with participation of various military branches of Azerbaijani Armed Forces began on September 18.

The exercises are held in accordance with the plan approved by the President of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev, the Defense Ministry reported.

The exercises that will last until September 22 involve up to 15,000 military personnel, more than 150 tanks and armored vehicles, up to 120 missiles and artillery systems of different calibers, multiple launch rocket systems and mortars, 20 combat aircrafts for various purposes, as well as new types of electronic warfare assets and unmanned aerial vehicles.

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. Today, Azerbaijani Army is one of the most powerful, highly disciplined armies in the world and the leading army in the region, which is equipped with modern military machinery.

The skills and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani army are growing year by year, as the countrys Armed Forces regularly conduct military exercises. The army building process in Azerbaijan is progressing as well.

---

Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 12:40 (UTC+04:00)

Building permits for the Croatian section of the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) are expected to be obtained during 2019, a source in Croatian Plinacro Ltd. natural gas transmission system operator told Trend.

Earlier, Trend learned from the company that a building permit has been obtained for the first phase of Split-Ploce section of IAP in Croatia.

As for the second and third phases, the source noted that the process of construction of the Split-Ploce section of IAP is in permitting phase.

Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in August 2016 by the countries involved in the project confirmed the joint initiative for the development of the relevant project and established the operative body for the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline (Project Management Unit), which adopted an action plan for the project development in 2017.

This operative body consists of the representatives of the relevant Ministries of Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as the representatives of companies which are the operators of the transmission systems in the mentioned countries (Plinacro, Montenegro Bonus, Albpetrol and BH-Gas) and the representative of the Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR.

IAP is a proposed natural gas pipeline in Southeastern Europe (SEE) that will stretch from Albania through Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, to Split in Croatia. It will be connected with the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

IAP will provide deliveries of Azerbaijani gas to several countries of South-Eastern Europe. The capacity of the pipeline will amount to five billion cubic meters of gas per year.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 16:19 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Talks and rumors on possible prolongation of the OPEC+ output cut deal continue to impact the global oil market.

Crude prices jumped in May after OPEC and other major exporters extended their current deal to limit oil production for nine months, but later continued to decline as investors were anticipating deeper cuts.

Most recently, Russia and Saudi Arabia discussed the possibility of extending for a second time the oil output-cut deal between OPEC and non-OPEC producers negotiated in November 2016.

Considering Russias position as the worlds largest producer with almost 11 million bpd, thinking of an oil strategy confined to OPEC members alone would not be a recipe to success, UK based energy analyst Alessandro Bacci said.

Bacci underlined that defining a working strategy suitable for all the involved oil-producing countries is always very difficult.

The common denominator among all these countries is their fiscal budgets strong dependence on their oil revenues. But apart from this, these countries have different histories, which translate into different economic and political agendas, he wrote in an e-mail to Azernews.

On top of this, according to him, is the difficult cooperation among OPEC members related to the intense political struggle between Saudi Arabia and Iran for regional influence.

Under the present deal, Iran obtained an exemption to slightly raise its output, which had been reduced by years of Western sanctions. In August, Iran pumped 3.82 million bpd of crude oil.

Until a few weeks ago, with still oversupplied oil markets, it seemed that a production freeze would be not very useful because OPEC production rose to 32.8 million bpd in July (highest value in 2017)Nigeria, an OPEC member under exemption from output curbs, pumped more crude oil.

In practice, the only valid solution was a consistent production cut, which indeed was politically very difficult to agree on, he said.

Today, oil markets are in the process of rebalancing because finally inventories are decreasing, the expert noted, adding that markets are reentering a backwardation phase, although in a feeble manner.

Now, the next two months and a half, which lead to OPECs November 30 meeting, will be crucial to understand what petroleum policy the oil-producing countries will apply after March 2018. In specific, if the present, and still in its infancy, rebalancing of the oil markets continues, it could really save oil producers from being forced to implement a production cut larger than the present one, which is 1.8 million bpd, Bacci said.

As for the oil prices, the expert noted that considering the current possible sustained transition toward a backwardation phase, predicting where the oil prices will be in 2018 is very difficult.

Commodity price movements depend on inventories (cyclical component linked to short-term supply and demand shocks) and marginal costs (structural component linked to the long-term impact of technology, geology, and politics), according to the expert.

When we look at 2018, we need primarily to consider the cyclical component, i.e., inventories. In this regard, the contango phase of the oil markets, which has been a constant phase since the second half of 2014 because of the crude oil oversupply, has begun to lose ground due to an increase in the demand for prompt-loading oil barrels and in the expectations that the oil markets will rebalance over the next year. All this means, a drawdown in crude oil stocks, i.e., an inventory reduction, he said.

The financialization of the price of crude oil is still not entirely clear, but it has an effect because calendar spreads are able to understand better the balance between supply and demand. In addition to this, if we give more importance to futures fundamentals than to physical fundamentals, its evident that these expectations will be then reflected in the spot price of a specific benchmark, he added.

Bacci believes that, under the current production levels, the gradual decline in global crude oil inventories should be able to produce more balanced oil markets in 2018, which could help maintain the current price levels, if not to produce a slight price increase as well.

But, much depends on what oil producers will decide next November. If they prolong their crude-oil production-cut agreement, this scenario could materialize. Instead, if they look at their long-term interest (expand their market share at the expense of the U.S. shale producers) and return to maximum production, oil markets would probably go to square one, which in this case means an oversupply of crude oil, he added.

Meanwhile, oil markets were firm on September 18 and remained near multi-month highs reached late last week as the number of U.S. rigs drilling for new production fell and refineries continued to start up after getting knocked out by Hurricane Harvey, Reuters reported.

On NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange) cost of the US light crude oil increased $0.07 to stand at $49.96. Price of the Brent crude oil at the London ICE (Intercontinental Exchange Futures) rose $0.07 to trade at $55.69.

The price of a barrel of Azeri Light crude oil decreased $0.25 to stand at $58.30 on the world markets also preserving quite high price level.

Last week, prices for Brent and WTI rose by more than 5 percent on optimism about the demand for oil in the U.S. as the refineries closed after Hurricane Harvey resumed and talks on extension of the OPEC agreement on production cuts continued.

In addition, the oil market was supported by positive forecasts for world oil demand from OPEC and the International Energy Agency (IEA).

The International Energy Agency analysts revised its forecast for oil demand in 2017, raising it to 1.6 million barrels per day, compared with the forecast of 1.5 million barrels per day in its July report.

This data came out one day after the OPEC report showed that last month oil production in the cartel countries fell for the first time since March. OPEC also raised the forecast for the volume of world oil demand in 2017 by 280,000 barrels per day - up to 96.77 million barrels.

OPEC and other major oil producers such as Russia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Sudan, and South Sudan reached an agreement in December 2016 to remove 1.8 million barrels a day from the market.

The deal to curb output brought crude prices above $58 a barrel in January but they have since slipped back as the effort to drain global inventories and stabilize the oil market has taken longer than expected.

OPEC and its partners decided to extend its production cuts till March 2018 in Vienna on May 25, as the oil cartel and its allies step up their attempt to end a three-year supply glut that has savaged crude prices and the global energy industry.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 18:13 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

Iran exported more than 9 million tons of petrochemical products worth $ 4,593 billion during the first five months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21-August 22, 2017), IRNA reported.

Director of Production Control in Iran's National Petrochemical Company (NPC)Alimohammad Bosaghzadeh earlier said that during the first five months of this year, the level of petrochemical products of the country increased by 5 percent compared to the same period of the previous year.

Bosaghzadeh announced that by the end of the current calendar year seven new petrochemical projects are planned to be implemented.

In the past calendar year, he estimated the level of petrochemical products at 51 million tons, saying that by the end of this year, this figure will reach 56 million tons.

Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zangeneh previously said that the future of the Iranian petrochemical industry is promising after the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

JCPOA, also known commonly as the Iran deal or Iran nuclear deal, is an international agreement on the nuclear program of Iran reached in Vienna on 14 July 2015 between Iran, the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security CouncilChina, France, Russia, United Kingdom, the U.S.plus Germany), and the European Union.

Iran has huge reserves of oil and gas and its proved reserves for 2017 are 137.6 billion barrels of oil and 27.6 trillion cubic meters of natural gas.

The country ranks first and fourth in the world for gas and oil reserves, respectively.

After the lifting of sanctions, Iran increased oil exports three-fold, compared with the sanctions period, by signing several short-term contracts with European oil companies. The extraction of gas after the lifting of sanctions exceeded 178 billion cubic meters meters and in the largest oil and gas field, South Pars has grown to 132 billion cubic meters.

By 2019, the production capacity in South Pars will grow from the current 260 billion cubic meters per year to about 390 billion cubic meters meters.

Prior to the introduction of international sanctions against Iran, the Islamic Republic produced oil in the amount of over 4 million barrels per day.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 10:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Turkey is preparing for a new military operation in Syria jointly with the Free Syrian Army (FSA).

The first stage is expected to involve more than 5,000 FSA soldiers, the Turkish media outlets reported on September 18.

Exact date for the launch of the new military operation in Syria has not been revealed.

Earlier, the Turkish Armed Forces were brought to full combat readiness in connection with the expected military operations against the YPG (Kurdish Peoples Protection Units) in Syria.

Currently, about 25,000 Turkish troops are stationed on the border with Syria.

Turkey may start new military operations in the Syrian areas of Tel-Abyad, Afrin, Tel-Rifat and Manbij.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has previously stated that Turkey intends to expand the zone of military operations in the north of Syria.

Starting from June 21, Turkey began to pull military equipment to the border with Syria.

Military equipment is concentrated in the Turkish province of Kilis, bordering the Syrian territory controlled by the YPG (Kurdish Peoples Protection Units) and PYD (Kurdish Democratic Union Party) forces.

The Turkish Armed Forces launched an operation to liberate the city of Jarabulus from the IS militants in northern Syria, near Aleppo on August 24, 2016. The operation was dubbed the Euphrates Shield.

The Turkish-led Euphrates Shield was aimed to improve security, support coalition forces, and eliminate the terror threat along the Turkish border using Free Syrian Army fighters backed by Turkish artillery and jets.

Syria has been locked in civil war since March 2011. According to UN's special envoy for Syria, Staffan de Mistura, around 400,000 people have died in the conflict while half the population has been driven from their homes.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 11:50 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

A meeting between Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and his Kazakh counterpart Nursultan Nazarbayev saw discussions of prospects for developing the relations between the two countries.

Nazarbayev arrived in the country to participate in large-scale celebrations in honor of the opening of the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts games held on September 17.

During the meeting, Berdimuhamedov stressed that bilateral relations between the two countries are developing dynamically.

This is a good basis for close cooperation within authoritative international structures, primarily the UN, and for mutual understanding on major global and regional issues, where Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan have common or similar positions, he noted.

In this context, Nazarbayev highly appreciated the initiatives of Ashgabat to address water and environmental issues and Turkmenistan's extensive work as the presiding officer of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea.

The heads of the two countries further discussed the prospects for interstate cooperation, concretized priority areas and called for an active build-up of mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation, expansion of business, humanitarian, scientific and educational contacts.

Recognizing the existing potential of the partnership in strategic areas such as energy and transport, the sides noted the exceptional importance of the North-South project and the construction of the Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway.

The total length of the railway reaches 900 kilometers. From the economic point of view, the whole railway represents the shortest way for delivering cargo, including transit cargoes, and passenger transportation in the future.

The constructed highway becomes the most important link in the formation of modern transport infrastructure, which will bring the economic and trade partnership between the Central Asian nations and neighboring regions to an entirely new level, the Turkmen government reported.

Diplomatic relations between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan were established on October 5, 1992. The legal framework of bilateral cooperation includes more than 70 documents.

The trade turnover between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan for the end of 2015 amounted to $319.7 million, while in January-August of 2016 it was $177.1 million.

Plant products, metal goods, natural calcium phosphate, timber and its products, rolled metal products, as well as flour, confectionary and flour products are major export items of Kazakhstan.

In its turn, Turkmenistan exports to Kazakhstan gas, oil and petroleum products, motor vehicles, fresh and refrigerated tomatoes, engines and power plants.

Ashgabat and Astana are actively cooperating in the energy sector. After a common gas pipeline was commissioned in 2009, Turkmen gas is supplied to China through Kazakhstan.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 17:46 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

The energy-rich Turkmenistan is eager to successfully deliver the multi-billion dollars Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, which has been in the making for nearly three decades.

The pipe will link the regions of Central Asia and South Asia and transport up to 33 bcm of natural gas. Turkmen gas will help cover the growing need for blue fuel in India and Pakistan, where by 2030, the needs could jump up by half. The pipe will also reduce the constant shortage of energy resources in transit Afghanistan.

The construction of the Turkmen section of the TAPI was launched in December 2015. The total length of the pipeline is 1,814 kilometers, including 214 kilometers - on the territory of Turkmenistan, 774 kilometers - Afghanistan, 826 kilometers of Pakistan to the settlement of Fazilka on the border with India.

The trans-regional energy project expected to be inaugurated in 2019 is being hailed as a major initiative for bringing peace and enhancing connectivity in the region.

The construction pace and importance of TAPI was mulled at latest meeting between Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani and his Turkmen counterpart Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on September 17.

Ghani stated that the large-scale projects such as the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India initiated by Ashgabat will be an invaluable contribution to the peaceful settlement of the situation in Afghanistan and the sustainable social and economic development of the entire Central Asian region.

Turkmenistan, a de-facto leader of the project, will hold an international tender for the purchase of pipes and other equipment necessary for the TAPI pipeline construction in September 2017.

Preparations are also being made for the projects of the gas compressor station and other associated facilities that will be built on the pipeline route.

Currently, the Turkmen section of the gas pipeline is being laid in line with the schedule. The pipeline will run from Galkynysh  the largest gas field in Turkmenistan  through the Afghan cities of Herat and Kandahar, and finally reach the Fazilka settlement located near the India-Pakistan border.

Time frame for the Afghan and Pakistani sections of the pipeline construction has not yet been determined.

Nevertheless, the TAPI Pipeline Company Limited consortium developing the project has signed a contract with German ILF Beratende Ingenieure GmbH for the provision of services for the preliminary design and management of the project in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The technical work in the territory of these states has already started.

Why TAPI is of high regional importance?

Turkmenistan is a landlocked country with huge gas reserves. The three main export routes include Central Asia  Center Pipeline (CAS) to Russia, Central Asia  China pipeline (CACP) and two routes to Iran which are Korpedzhe-Kurt Kui (KKK) and Dauletabad-Sarakhs-Khangiran pipelines.

Turkmenistan lost Russia as a customer a year ago, and has since provided gas only to China and Iran. The countrys relations with Iran were also seriously damaged by the gas dispute over Irans debts. China remains Turkmenistans biggest consumer.

However, Turkmenistan doesnt want to be solely reliant on a single customer. Therefore, the Central Asian country began to look for alternative consumers in the European and Asian markets.

The TAPI will make it possible to deliver gas from Turkmenistan, which ranks fourth in the world for its gas reserves, to large and energy starved markets of South and Southeast Asia.

The pipeline also has the potential to contribute to reconciliation in Afghanistan, by creating economic opportunity for the Afghan people. It could create jobs in the war-torn country.

The project also could help to improve relations between India and Pakistan reducing chances of conflict between these two nuclear powers.

From Indias perspective, TAPI project will provide an alternative supply source of gas with dependable reserves leading to enhanced energy security. It will further diversify the fuel basket to the benefit of Indian economy as it would be used mainly in power, fertilizer and city gas sectors.

The main pitfalls for projects implementation

One of the main problems for the projects implementation lies in security issue as the pipeline is to pass through the territory of Afghanistan. Moreover, any downturn in India-Pakistan relation, while there is no guarantee that this would never happen, can negatively affect TAPI project.

Another problem which stems from the previous two is the financing issue. Though Asian Development Bank is assisting the project but funding from other sources is required which is difficult because international investors are doubtful about the projects success.

Over the past 22 years since the project was first approved by the four nations with the support of international companies, many important regional developments, which should be taken into account when talking about TAPIs implementation, have taken place, a senior oil and gas analyst at Vienna Energy Research Group Dr. Fereydoun Barkeshli said.

He told Azernews that pipelines diplomacy works well only through long-term security and stable regional territories. Therefore, it is important to resolve the issues of geopolitical threats in Afghanistan and Pakistan and then between the two adversaries namely India and Pakistan in order to successfully implement the project.

Barkeshli also noticed that during the last two decades, LNG has found to be less costly and time-consuming compared to building pipelines.

Currently, Pakistan and India are heavily investing in their LNG import infrastructure, thus their enthusiasm to complete TAPI soon is getting diminished. However, once LNG prices increase the TAPI project will regain its competitiveness and actuality, experts say.

This ambitious project has come a long way since it was first proposed in 1993, but it still has a long way to go.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 14:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

A consortium is being created by Turkey and Russia for construction of the first Turkish nuclear power plant under the Russian project.

The construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant will be launched in March 2018, Turkish media outlets reported on September 18.

Moscow and Ankara signed an agreement to construct and operate Turkeys first nuclear power plant at the Akkuyu site in May 2010.

Akkuyu is the world's first nuclear power plant project implemented on BOO ("build-own-operate") basis. In accordance with this model, Russia will build, own and operate the plant.

The plant will have a capacity of 4,800 megawatts in four units and a working lifetime of 8,000 hours per year. In its first phase, two units with a capacity of 2,400 megawatts are planned to be completed by 2023.

The Turkish side expects the first unit of Akkuyu NPP to start generating electricity on October 29, 2023 on the centennial anniversary of the Turkish Republic.

In June 2017, Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation signed an agreement on the main conditions for the Turkish energy companies Cengiz Holding, Kolin Insaat and Kalyon Insaat to join the shareholders of the Akkuyu Nuclear JSC, which is implementing the Akkuyu nuclear power plant project.

The agreement was signed at the 9th international forum Atomexpo-2017 in Moscow.

The Turkish consortium claims 49 percent in Akkuyu Nuclear company. The amount of the transaction has not been disclosed. But it will be the biggest investment of foreign companies into Russian projects being implemented outside the country and the world's biggest private investment in nuclear energy sector over the past 17 years.

The $20 billion Akkuyu project is expected to meet 6 to 7 percent of Turkeys electricity demand after it is completed.

On June 15, Turkish Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EMRA) granted an electricity generation license to the Akkuyu Nuclear Company for a period of 49 years for the project in the southern Turkish province of Mersin.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 September 2017 18:02 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

The National Bank of Tajikistan announced the successful debut and sale of government securities on the world market.

A working group from Tajikistan participated in Road Show with major investors from the United States, Britain and Switzerland and successfully presented the offer and sale of securities worth $500 million to complete the construction of Rogun hydroelectric power plant (HPP), the bank reported.

As many as 38 percent of the bonds were purchased by investors from the United States, 24 percent - from the UK, 35 percent - from the EU countries and a small part of 3 percent - from Asia.

The investors' requests for the purchase of government bonds in Tajikistan increased to $4.5 billion, according to the National Bank.

During the trip the Tajik working group held talks with more than 300 representatives of major investment companies such as such as Goldman Sachs, Black Rock, Pimco, Morgan Stanley, Fidelity, Wellington Management Group, J.P. Morgan and etc.

The Tajik authorities decided to issue securities worth $1 billion for the completion of the Rogun HPP. The Parliament of Tajikistan on July 21 this year approved the government's proposal for issuing government securities to finance the energy sector.

At the first stage, bonds worth $500 million were put up for sale on world markets.

Approximately $4 billion is needed to complete the country's main energy project - Rogun HPP. About 2 billion somoni have been allocated from the state budget for the completion of the hydroelectric power station this year.

The Rogun HPP is seen as a solution to the energy independence and a tool for economic growth. By implementing the project, Tajikistan will be able to generate about 13 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This will not only help the country to meet its domestic needs but will also make Tajikistan a major exporter of electricity.

The Rogun HPP construction project was developed during the Soviet era. Construction of the plant was initiated in 1976, but stopped after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Currently, the ambitious projects future mostly depends on the issue of funding.

The HPP is being constructed on the upper reaches of the Vakhsh River in the Pamir mountain ranges, Republic of Tajikistan. The project is being developed by OJSC Rogun Hydropower Plant on behalf of the Government of Tajikistan.

The dam should form a large Rogun reservoir with a total volume of 13.3 cubic meters. The project is criticized because of the location in the zone of high seismicity, landslide and mudflow processes, and the presence of a tectonic fault filled with rock salt under the base of the dam.

---

Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva
The pact envisages the expansion of the laboratory set up by India's Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Japan's National Institute of Advanced Science and Technology under the name of DAILAB.

India and Japan has signed an MoU for expansion of an international laboratory set up for a collaborative research in

the area of biotechnology.

According to a press release, the pact signed on a day when Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrived in India on

a two-day trip, envisages the expansion of the laboratory set up by India's Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and

Japan's National Institute of Advanced Science and Technology under the name of DAILAB.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is likely to be exchanged after the delegation-level talks between Abe and

Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

DAILAB is located in Japan. The new centre to come up after the pact will be called DAICENTER.

It will seek to enhance the level of joint research, training and networking programmes that had been underway

through DAILAB and its six ancillary institutes called Satellite International Institutes for Special Training, Education

and Research (SISTERS) for the past three years.

It would also focus on connecting the academia to the industry and network innovation to entrepreneurship promoting

science and technology relationships of the two countries.

Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Secretary, K Vijayaraghavan, expressed hope that the expansion of the joint

laboratory would help in pooling the resources of the two countries towards meeting the growing needs.
Is AMR Modern-day FRANKENSTEINS MONSTER?

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) continues to pose a significant public health problem in terms of mortality and economic loss. The rising AMR is a matter of huge concern that needs to be tactfully handled and health authorities of several countries, including India, have formulated action plans for its containment. Significant efforts by the government, an active involvement of startups and diagnostic players is a good start. The question remains, whether this will be enough.

For Feedback, please email us at: communications@mmactiv.com
Google Team This picture was clicked in the year 1999. Who knew this team would be the most relatively modest team at Google headquarters that would go on to revolutionise the way we use the Internet!

The First Photo Of Outer Space This picture was clicked in 1946. It was a picture that was taken from space even before the space programme was launched! Apparently the history behind this picture is that the soldiers had attached a camera to a missile before it was launched.

Family Photo Left On The Moon This picture was clicked in 1972. The history of this picture is that it was left on the moon by Apollo 16 astronaut Charles Duke in 1972. It's even sealed up to keep it protected.

Titanics Iceberg This picture was clicked in 1912 when the Titanic sank after hitting this iceberg! Apparently this is thought to be the very iceberg that sealed the famous ship's fate. Have a closer look at the picture as you can see that it even has some dents in it.

Titanic Survivors This picture was clicked on the fateful day when the Titanic sank in 1912. The survivors are seen boarding The RMS Carpathia which means that not everyone perished on that fateful day.

The Beatles This famous picture was clicked in 1969. No, this is not the famous Abbey Road pic that was simply reversed. It's the Beatles walking the other way across the now-famous zebra crossing. Well in 2012, this picture was sold at an auction for $25,000.

Construction Of The Statue Of Liberty This rare picture was clicked in 1884. What's even more amazing about this image is it shows the statue was being constructed in Paris. We still wonder as how could they even deliver it to America back then! We bet there were hardly any courier services which would do this back then!

The First Ever Walmart This picture was taken in 1962. Who would have even imagined that from this simple image emerged a supermarket global empire around the world!

Mount Rushmore Being Carved This picture was clicked in 1932. This picture specifically showed the head of George Washington. Just check the size comparison between America's first president and those construction workers!

A Waterless Hoover Dam This pic was clicked in 1936 when the dam was being constructed. Guess this is something that we will probably never see again in our own lifetime.

Eiffel Tower Construction This picture was clicked in 1888 when the world's most famous construction had its beginning. Can you imagine what Paris would have been like before it was there?

Hitlers Bunker This picture was clicked in 1945. According to history, this is thought to be the first picture that was taken of Adolf Hitler's underground bunker after his death. Doesn't it just send chills down your spine?

The MGM Lion This was taken in 1929. This is the moment these cameramen captured that iconic movie intro where the lion is seen roaring at the beginning of old films.

Golden Gate Bridge This picture of the Golden Gate Bridge still under construction was taken in 1937. We bet this must have been such a mammoth task to undertake. Who would have even imagined that it would eventually be declared one of the wonders of the modern world!
History Behind Celebrating The Navratri Festival Faith Mysticism oi-Lekhaka

Navratri is amongst the most important and eminent festivals that the Hindus celebrate in India and in many other parts of the world. This festival is devoted to Goddess Durga. The Hindus celebrate this festival with a lot of dedication and loyalty all over the country.

The festival is known to stretch for a constant period of nine days and each day is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga. The festival is celebrated in accordance with the Hindu calendar and the festival falls on the Ashvin month, which is between the months of September to October.

The celebrations of Navratri include stage decorations, the narration of the great legend of Navratri, chanting the Holy Scriptures and enacting the entire story. On the ninth day of this revered festival, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in the water bodies or the evil statue is burnt with the help of the fireworks, which marks the destruction of evil.

The Legend Of Goddess And Mahishasura

There are different legends in the eastern and the northern part of India. According to the legend prevailing in North India, a demon named Mahishasura was a great devotee of Lord Shiva, and was granted the boon of immortality by him. Mahishasura started torturing the common people and his ultimate aim became to rule all the three lokas.

The gods of Swargalok appeared in front of Lord Shiva and prayed to him to protect them and their kingdom. In order to protect them from the torture of the demon king, the Trinity of Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma united and they gave rise to a female warrior, who was Goddess Durga.

Mahishasura was struck by her beauty and proposed her for marriage. The Goddess kept the condition that she would marry him only if he could defeat her in a battle. She wanted to end the false confidence of the demon.

Mahishasura was overestimating his powers and amused by the condition that Goddess had put, he immediately agreed to this battle. The battle went on for nine continuous days and on the last day, Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura by beheading him. These nine days came to be known as Navratri and the last and the final day as Vijayadashami, which meant the victory of good over evil.

The Legend Of Goddess Sati And Lord Shiva

According to this legend, the king of the Himalayas, Daksha, had a very beautiful daughter, Uma. Uma wanted to be the wife of Lord Shiva. To please him, she kept praying to him and finally managed to please the lord. But when the lord came to marry Uma, he was clad in tiger skin. This angered Daksha and he did not want to keep any relationship with Uma and her husband.

Later, Daksha arranged for a yajna, where he invited everyone except Lord Shiva. Uma was unhappy to see that Shiva was not invited, yet she attended the function. However, she could not bear her father humiliating her husband for long and jumped into the Yajna fire. It is said that she attained immortality through the Yajna fire and married Shiva, the invincible god again in the after life. It is said that even after death she used come to her parents house for nine days every year in the Ashvin month during Shukla Paksha. These days came to be known as Navratri and are celebrated as a grand festival now.

The Legend Of Ravana And Ram

Navratri is also related to the Ramayana, which is one of the Hindu epics. It is said that Lord Ram prayed to Goddess Durga for a period of nine days in order to get the strength and the power to kill the demon king Ravana. These nine days came to be known as Navratri and on the tenth and the final day, Ravana was killed by Lord Rama. Since then, this day is known as the Dussehra or Vijayadashami and signifies the triumph of Lord Rama over the evil demon king Ravana.

Navratri also calls for the celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights, which comes just after twenty days of Dussehra. Navratri is celebrated with a lot of excitement all over the country of India. This year, the Navratri will be celebrated from October 10 to October 18, 2018.
Airlines are cancelling and redirecting flights between Australia and New Zealand's biggest city because of a fuel shortage that is crippling Auckland Airport.

A pipe running between Refining New Zealand's Marsden Point refinery and a terminal in Auckland burst on Thursday, cutting supplies of jet fuel to airlines at the city's airport.

Fuel is now being rationed, and Auckland Airport said 27 domestic and international flights out of the airport were cancelled over the weekend.

Air New Zealand said on Monday that fuel had been restricted to about 30 per cent of normal availability, with airlines being told to carry extra fuel when flying into the airport.
The Byron Bay Beach Hotel, developed by John Cornell, known as "Strop" in his television days on the Paul Hogan show, has sold for $70 million to Melbourne-based investors.

Mr Cornell sold the site for $44 million in 2007 to businessman Max Trigg who has spent the past decade renovating the site.

The iconic Beach Hotel has been sold for $70 million to Melbourne fund manager, Impact Investment Group

He has now sold to the Liberman-family backed Impact Investment Group.

An IIG spokesperson said the group saw strong potential to regenerate the "heart and soul" of Byron Bay with a strategy focused on achieving bold green and social impact initiatives over a three to four years period.
A teenager used as "bait" to lure a man who died by suicide hours after he was blackmailed by a group of males who targeted men on a gay hook-up app and threatened to out them as paedophiles will spend four months in detention.

The boy, now 17, was the fifth person to plead guilty after police this year cracked a syndicate for vowing to publicly "out" men, who they trapped through apps including Grindr, as child molesters if they didn't hand over mobile phones or cash.

He had been driven by greed when he asked the scam's teen "ringleader" to get involved, the ACT Childrens' Court was told on Monday.

"You should let me get in on one before I leave if you don't mind. It seems like fun and easy money," he said in a message.

The boy was among offenders who ensnared the man through social media and arranged a meeting at Mawson shops the night of January 20.
Two brothers of Kings Cross nightclub figure John Ibrahim have been mentioned in court for their alleged role in an international drug-smuggling conspiracy nearly six weeks after a series of police raids across Sydney and Dubai.

Michael and Fadi Ibrahim, who were arrested in Dubai in August, arrived in Sydney on Sunday night after being extradited.

Australian Federal Police and their state counterparts arrested 18 people early last month during raids in Australia and the United Arab Emirates.

Police are expected to allege Michael, 39, headed an international drugs and tobacco syndicate.
Tributes are pouring in for Lanell Latta, who was found dead in her northern beaches home on Monday morning.

The popular hairdresser was well known in the close knit Avalon community, where she was renting a $1.6 million beach house owned by model Gemma Ward.

Ms Latta's son, Joel Woszatka, 25, has been charged with her murder.

Friends of the 50-year-old, who worked at the Palm Beach Salon where she specialised in hair extensions, described her as a "beautiful soul" and an "angel".
A man has been airlifted to hospital after surviving a staggering plunge into a river north of the Sunshine Coast.

The 32-year-old escaped with shoulder injuries when his four-wheel drive plummeted into the Mary River, about 10 kilometres south of Gympie.

Emergency crews had to winch a driver to safety after a crash south of Gympie. Credit:LifeFlight

Critical care paramedic Jeff Ofield told the Gympie Times the man had been there for hours before emergency services were called.

He said the driver could not remember what happened but the car could have plunged down the river bank or flipped over the side of the massive bridge.
Police have charged a Fraser Coast man with more than 30 offences including rape, bestiality and indecent treatment of a child.

The 62-year-old was arrested on September 13 following a long investigation.

Police alleged the offences were committed between August 13, 2014, and September 9, 2017.

The man, who can not be named for legal reasons, was charged with 15 counts of indecent treatment of a child, 12 counts of rape, two counts of bestiality, two counts of sexual assault, one child pornography charge and one count of tattooing a minor.

The man was refused bail when his charges were heard in the Maryborough Magistrates Court on Friday.
An Ipswich City Council contractor has appeared in a Queensland court charged with corruption, fraud and pretending to be someone else.

Wayne Francis Innes was last month charged by the Corruption and Crime Commission as part of an ongoing investigation.

Contractor Wayne Francis Innes leaves the Brisbane Magistrates Court.

Court documents show between September and November last year Mr Innes allegedly gained a benefit from the Works, Parks and Recreation chief operating officer Craig Maudsley by causing financial detriment to another business.

Mr Innes also allegedly pretended to be a fictitious man named Brian Callaghan in November and in the following two months allegedly attempted to dishonestly gain an amount of money for himself.
WASHINGTON -- Before previewing scenes from his new documentary, "The Vietnam War," at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, filmmaker Ken Burns illustrated the division the unpopular war fomented in the United States decades ago with a neat audience gambit.

First, he asked those who had served to stand. A number of silver-haired men did, and the crowd erupted in applause. Then he asked those who protested the conflict to rise as well. Nearly as many did, and they were greeted with claps, too.

"I couldn't tell the difference," Burns said, striking a conciliatory note.

The clips he proceeded to show from the 18-hour documentary that he co-directed with Lynn Novick, which will begin airing in 10 weekly installments on PBS, underscored those not-so-long-ago tensions, along with the confusion and controversy that accompanied the bloody war. The images, many in grainy vintage film interspersed with modern-day interviews with U.S. and Vietnamese soldiers as well as others whose lives were touched, evoked the horrors of the battlefield and the anger back in the States.

But afterward, a panel that included Burns, Novick and three Vietnam veterans -- former secretary of state John Kerry, former defense secretary Chuck Hagel and Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. -- agreed that the film might start conversations that could begin to bridge the long-standing rifts the war started, as well as offer cautionary lessons for the current moment.

(And atypically for a Washington movie screening, almost the entire audience remained seated for the post-viewing panel discussion, instead of surreptitiously scurrying for the exits - clearly, the panelists were as riveting as the onscreen drama to the crowd, which was heavy on military brass, business types, lawmakers and congressional staff.)

"It's the right time, particularly since we are in such turmoil in the world today," said McCain, who spent more than five years as a prisoner of war - and who was greeted at the screening with a standing ovation, a tribute to his ongoing battle with brain cancer. Among the takeaways, McCain said, were making sure military and civilian leaders are honest with the public, and avoiding a draft that relies on the lowest-income people to serve.

The Arizona Republican spoke of frequent visits to the Vietnam Veterans memorial on the National Mall, a monument etched with the names of more than 58,000 dead soldiers. "These young men died because of inadequate or corrupt leadership - we must have leaders who can lead and be able to give them a path to victory so we will not sacrifice them, ever again, to a lost cause," McCain said.

Kerry agreed, listing as the lessons applicable to today: "Knowing what we're doing, being honest with our people, making war a last resort, exhausting diplomacy - these are all relevant to every choice we face," he said.

And Hagel said that as painful as it might be to revisit the violent chapter, it's instructive. "Yes, it's difficult to see this, but it's important ... for our next set of leaders to understand the consequences of war and the consequences of decisions that we never get all right."

"What also came out of Vietnam was the first real ... questioning of our government, a questioning of our leaders and a demand for accountable government - honest leadership," he said. "I think we're going through a period of that right now, pretty intensely."

And then there was another deviation from the typical script for such Washington-night events, when attendees are desperate to queue up for their Ubers and chauffeured sedans (those early-morning cable hits await!): a prolonged and heartfelt standing ovation for the panel.
A woman who allegedly escaped from a south-east Queensland jail more than a week ago has been arrested more than 150 kilometres away from the facility.

Abagail Graf, 21, allegedly escaped the Numinbah Correctional Centre in Queensland.

Police arrested Holland Park woman Abigail Graf, 21, at a residence in Moorina, in the Moreton Bay region about 2.20pm on Monday.

She had been on the run since September 10 when an 11pm headcount at the 1800-acre open Numinbah Correctional Centre, on the Gold Coast hinterland, alerted officers to the disappearance.

She was charged with one count of escape unlawful custody, to appear at the Caboolture Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
Public hospitals are scrambling to cope with the influx of patients, cancelling some elective surgery and making arrangements with private facilities to house the overflow of patients. Additional ambulances had been introduced to meet the increased number of callouts. Many health workers, including those who had been vaccinated, had also been hit. "We are having a horrific flu season," Health Minister Jill Hennessy told 3AW radio. "This is an influenza strain that is able to impact the young, the elderly, the well and the unwell."

Ms Hennessy, who is hosting talks about this year's flu crisis with experts on Monday, said flu cases had doubled or even tripled across the eastern states. In Victoria, the number of laboratory-confirmed cases had doubled and it was not known if the season had reached its peak, she said. "We are dealing with a horror flu season and we're not quite sure when or where it will finish," Ms Hennessy said. "Every day we all beg for advice that we may have peaked and then we see things drop off a bit and then them escalate again." She urged Victorians not to dismiss flu symptoms as "simply a cold" or "'man flu'".

"Get to the doctor, call Nurse on Call, call an ambulance if you feel someone is very unwell. But don't ignore the flu symptoms," Ms Hennessy said. "It needs to be taken seriously." 13,000 Victorians struck down by flu More than 160,000 people have contracted the flu in Australia so far this year, Health Department figures show, compared with 75,818 recorded cases for the same time last year. In Victoria, there have been just over 13,000 cases.

The Royal Children's Hospital treated a total of 290 confirmed flu cases up to September 14, an increase of 126 on the same period last year. Monash Children's Hospital has treated 247 children for flu since June 1 at its Clayton, Dandenong and Casey hospitals. It is estimated that flu contributes to more than 3000 deaths in Australia each year. The total death toll in Victoria remains unknown, as hospitals and doctors are not required to notify the department of flu-related deaths that take place elsewhere. There have been at least 97 deaths from the flu in 2017. Australian Bureau of Statistics show 2015 had previously been the state's worst year for flu deaths, with 57 recorded. (Figures for 2016 are not yet available.)

The health department is unable to say what strain of flu the girl died from, for privacy reasons. The Angliss Hospital has also declined to comment. The education department said it was in contact with the girl's school to offer support to anyone affected by her death. "The death of any child is tragic and our thoughts are with the family of this student," a spokeswoman said. Death a reminder of flu danger

Authorities say the girl's death should remind the public how dangerous influenza is. People are being advised to get the influenza vaccine (especially if they are considered vulnerable to the virus), practice good hand hygiene and cover their mouth when they cough. Those who are sick should not go to work, and ill children should be kept away from school, a department spokesman said. So far, the deaths have been attributed to H3N2, a fast-mutating strain of the flu that is defying medical experts' efforts to stop it.

Australian Medical Association Victoria president Dr Lorraine Baker said the potentially deadly strain was persisting in the community later in the season than normal. She urged all Victorians to take measures to protect themselves and the community. "If anyone  and this applies to parents observing their children or for adults themselves  if anyone is running fever, no one would know if it's influenza or another infectious disease and so it's very important to get checked early," she said. "Given the current severe influenza virus in the community, we recommend you attend your doctor sooner rather than later and not necessarily the emergency department, see your GP first. "But go early, don't leave it until it's too late"

Dr Baker said people with flu-like symptoms should not run the risk of spreading the respiratory disease to others who may be more likely to suffer severe health consequences. Health authorities recommend vaccination as defence against influenza, but the vaccine is not funded for children, unless they have medical conditions such as severe asthma that can lead to complications. Previously healthy children among intensive care patients GP data shows the rates among Victorian children may be as low as 3 per cent, Monash Children's Hospital head of infection and immunity Professor Jim Buttery said. Professor Buttery said the flu had put "a decent number" of children in intensive care at Monash, both those with underlying conditions and others who were previously healthy.

The virus had also prompted an increase in group A Streptococcal sepsis, which can be associated with influenza. Professor Buttery said parents and pregnant women should consider vaccinations, both for themselves and their children. Flu symptoms manifested differently for everyone and could look simply like "a hot, miserable child with a cold". GPs would only test for the flu if they thought it would change the way they would manage the patient, Professor Buttery said. For the overwhelming number of children, flu is not a severe illness and utilising medication like Tamiflu would only reduce symptoms by about a day, he said.

Elderly targeted in free flu vaccine program More than 4.5 million doses of the influenza vaccine are provided for free by the federal government each year under the National Immunisation Program. The program targets people aged 65 or older, most Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and those with chronic conditions. Pregnant women are also eligible. Loading Children are not included in the program.
Law enforcement officers gather outside the scene of the shooting in Plano, Texas. Credit:AP But the country, for its staggering flaws, maintains an irresistible pull for many young Australians. More of us than ever before are flocking here  "non-immigrant" visas granted to Australians have risen from about 27,000 in 1997 to more than 47,000 last year, aided by the more accessible working visa scheme secured by John Howard. For many people of my generation, a stint in New York, Chicago or Los Angeles is increasingly as appealing as a stint in London was for our parents. The US maintains an irresistible pull for many young Australians Credit:SHUTTERSTOCK In this, my last column, indulge me in an attempt to explain some of this allure, and to take a rare, positive look at what the Americans do best  even better than us.

Most Australians are drawn to the US by education, or job opportunities that abound in industries that feel limited in Australia  technology, the arts, media  and which are powered by the country's cliched, but nonetheless palpable spirit of optimism, innovation and dynamism. There is not a whiff of tall poppy syndrome here and far less reflexive cynicism. Revelers march during the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade in New York. Credit:AP The culture is louder, more expressive, more infused with dazzling pageantry. Extroversion is a way of life, from my Brooklyn neighbours who spend all of October crafting elaborate Halloween costumes (adults and children alike) to the gospel music pouring out of church doors on a Sunday morning. This exuberance spills into politics too. The explosion of protest movements in the Trump era is a reminder of how strong civil society can be in this country  it has had to be. Few can trust the government to look after them, so they have become good at looking after each other. The explosion of protest movements is a remainder of how strong civil society can be in the US.

Back in January, I spent two days on the National Mall in Washington. On day one I heard the new President sworn in, and deliver a demagogic speech about "American carnage". I stood in the same spot the next day, surrounded by a (much larger) sea of protesters at the Women's March. Defiant, loud, joyful, diverse. They sang Woody Guthrie's This Land Is Your Land as they walked their way past grand monuments and all the way to the White House. This was America too. President-elect Donald Trump arrives on the West Front of the Capitol in Washington for his inauguration in January. Credit:AP Though many basic social reforms elude them, there are rights secured by the US constitution to envy, and more recent progress to admire. Big changes have happened even in the small time I have lived here, at a time when Australian politics feels maddeningly inert. I recall the day in 2015 when the US Supreme Court legalised same-sex marriage. I celebrated on the street outside New York's iconic gay bar Stonewall with my sister and her soon-to-be wife, and had this overpowering feeling of being in a moment of progress, an exhilarating rush forwards. It has been a long time since I'd had that feeling at home.

The day the Supreme Court legalised same-sex marriage felt like a moment of progress. The power of local and state governments in the US means change is uneven. But consider the proliferation of sanctuary cities  offering protection to undocumented immigrants  or that a reckoning with the failures of the war on drugs has led to many states decriminalising and even legalising marijuana, or the deep commitment to multiculturalism that has led some public school systems to recognise Jewish and Muslim holidays alongside Christian ones. Can you imagine a NSW or Victorian education minister proposing giving all children the day off for Eid al-Fitr? Gloria Steinem and protesters at the Women's March in Washington. Credit:AP Some of this change feels possible thanks to a bigger, more diverse, more competitive media landscape. It feels depressingly routine to see innovative ideas (or outspoken young people like Yassmin Abdel-Magied) squished under the thumb of a reactive segment of the mainstream media in Australia, which frequently speaks with one voice.
Queensland Education Minister Kate Jones says a proposed Year 1 test has failed to make the grade.

The Turnbull government wants state and territory governments to agree to national literacy and numeracy checks for Year 1 students as part of a new funding agreement.

Education Minister Kate Jones says a Year 1 test is unnecessary. Credit:Glenn Hunt/AAP

On Monday, it released its expert panel's report, which found while most schools assessed children's skills when they first started, there was no nationally consistent approach.

It said many young school children were falling through the cracks because there was no early national check on how well they know their words and numbers.
The Philippines President, Rodrigo Duterte, predicted in July that Islamic State-backed Abu Sayyaf rebels, who seized the central business district of Marawi in May, would be evicted in 10 to 15 days. It's now mid-September. There's no sign of the Philippine Army loosening the rebels' grip.

Perhaps military commanders and the President are seeking to limit politically unacceptable casualties, confident that the rebels will run out of food and ammunition sooner or later. But there is no sign of that and the suspicion must be that they are resuppling. How? In a chronically corrupt Philippines, who knows?

The Australian government, together with other regional governments, takes the view that prolonging the siege encourages and gives confidence to Islamic extremists  in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines  to undertake further high-profile military action. Australia has deployed two P3-Orion surveillance planes to Mindanao to provide intelligence to the Philippine Army.

On September 8, Defence Minister Marise Payne said Australian troops would be deployed to the southern Philippines to help in training. Australian soldiers are more acceptable to Duterte than American troops and, depending on which regiments they are drawn from, may be able to undertake "active" or "live" training.
The Trump administration has already reversed crucial pieces of what President Donald Trump has called a "terrible and misguided deal" with Cuba that was struck during the Obama administration, but closing the embassy would be the most dramatic action yet to return the relationship to its Cold War deep freeze.

"It's a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered," he said. "We've brought some of those people home. It's under review."

Washington : The Trump administration is considering closing the recently reopened US Embassy in Havana after 21 Americans associated with the embassy experienced a host of unexplained health problems.

Cuba President Raul Castro speaks during a rally in Havana, Cuba. Credit:AP

A closing of the embassy, were it to occur, would be less a political statement than one of concern over the risks that employees face in Havana. The American Foreign Service Association reported this month that the symptoms among those affected included mild traumatic brain injury, permanent hearing loss, loss of balance, severe headaches and brain swelling.

While noting that Cuba is responsible for protecting the health of diplomats posted to the country, State Department officials have yet to suggest that the Cuban government was behind the attacks. The Associated Press reported this weekend that the initial reaction by the Cuban president, Raul Castro, to the news - apparent concern, with none of the usual how-dare-you-accuse-us attitude - had caught US officials off guard.

The Cubans even offered to let the FBI go to Havana and investigate, a rare level of openness that suggested to some US officials that the Cuban government was equally baffled about the cause. Victims told The AP how they walked in and out of what seemed like powerful beams of sound that hit only certain rooms or even only parts of rooms.

US officials have speculated that the problems may have resulted from some sort of sonic attack or perhaps a surveillance operation gone wrong. The attack may have been the work of a rogue government unit or another government such as Russia. That a Canadian diplomat was also affected deepened the mystery. Relations between Canada and Cuba have long been warm.
The question has dogged Chelsea Manning ever since she walked out of prison four months ago - nearly three decades short of a 35-year sentence, courtesy of a commutation from Barack Obama in the last days of his presidency.

Is she a traitor? Had the Army private betrayed her country in 2010, when she passed tens of thousands of classified documents to WikiLeaks? Or had Manning, as many believe, demonstrated loyalty to the American public by exposing its government institutions?

At least once, the question was put to Manning herself. Areporter asked it in June, in one of her rare interviews since walking free, but didn't get a clear answer.

Often, an answer was supplied by another, such as President Donald Trump, who called Manning a traitor in all-capital letters.
Washington: Iran and the United States have attacked each other's behaviour regarding the 2015 nuclear deal as America's top diplomat and Iran's supreme leader traded accusations of backsliding on agreed-to commitments.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson acknowledged Iran is in "technical compliance" with its obligations under the pact negotiated by the Obama administration and five other world powers. But he faulted Tehran for its non-nuclear activities in the Middle East - backing militias in Yemen and Syria, support for terrorist groups and ballistic missile testing.

Iranian supreme leader, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks at a meeting in Tehran, Iran, on September 12. Credit:AP

"We have a lot of issues with Iran," he said on CBS' Face the Nation. "They're a yard long. The nuclear issue is one foot of that yard. We have two feet of other issues that we must deal with. And it has to do with Iran's destabilising activities."

For his part, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the ultimate power in Tehran's theocracy, took to his English-language Twitter account to label Washington as, in turn, domineering, bullying, oppressive, hounding and cruel - and corrupt and lying to boot.
Ryanair is preparing for up to 20 million euros in compensation claims after canceling thousands of flights due to a shortage of staff, a spokeswoman for the Irish budget airline said on Monday.

Ryanair admitted on Monday it had messed up after it disrupted plans of hundreds of thousands of travelers by canceling flights to cope with pilot shortages and improve its punctuality record.

Ryanair blamed a number of factors for the sudden cancellations including a backlog of staff leave, which must be taken by the end of the year. Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers also said air traffic control strikes and weather disruption were affecting its performance.

Rival Norwegian Air said on Monday that it had recruited more than 140 pilots from Ryanair this year, adding to the squeeze on staffing.

"It is clearly a mess but in the context of an operation where we operate more than 2,500 flights every day, it is reasonably small but that doesn't take away the inconvenience we've caused to people," Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary told Sky News.

He said the problems were not the result of pilots quitting but was "because we're giving pilots lots of holidays over the next four months." Every passenger who is entitled to compensation will receive it in full, he added.

Seeking to halt a decline in performance figures, Ryanair has taken the unusual step of announcing plans to cancel between 40 and 50 flights per day until the end of October.

Ryanair said the cancellations were designed "to improve its system-wide punctuality which has fallen below 80 percent in the first two weeks of September."

While it currently calculates crew leave from April to March, the Irish Aviation Authority is forcing it to calculate it from January to December from the start of 2018, it added.

Ryanair sent emails to the first affected passengers last Friday, giving them the choice of a refund or an alternative flight. It has issued cancellation notices up until Wednesday.

The move brought bad publicity for an airline which has worked hard over the past few years to improve a reputation for treating passengers badly.

News bulletins in Ireland ran interviews with disgruntled customers while newspapers asked readers to share their stories, including a wedding party who told the Irish Times they had been left stranded in France.

Analysts at Dublin-based Goodbody Stockbrokers estimated that the cancellations would cost the airline around 34.5 million euros -- comprising 23.5 million euros in compensation, 6.3 million euros in lost fees, and 4.7 million euros in subsistence such as meals, drinks and accommodation.

Goodbody said that would shave 2.3% off its full year forecast of 1.479 billion euros in profit after tax.

In July, Ryanair reiterated its 1.4 to 1.45 billion euro forecast for the financial year ending March 31, 2018.

Barring exceptional circumstances, airlines must under EU rules provide at least two weeks' notice to avoid paying compensation of 250 euros per passenger for flights of 1,500 km or less or 400 euros for longer flights within the bloc.

The fall in Ryanair's punctuality below 80% compared to an average of 89% in the three months to the end of June. O'Leary said at the time he was not happy with that figure, seeking a mark of over 90%.

The Irish Independent reported on Monday that Ryanair has been offering pilots a 10,000 euro ($11,925) "signing-on bonus" in response to recruitment problems.

Ryanair employed 4,058 pilots at the end of March, according to its annual report, up from 3,424 a year earlier to keep up with a rapid growth in passenger numbers.

Training company CAE Inc warned recently that the worldwide commercial aviation industry will need an extra 255,000 pilots by 2027 to sustain its rapid growth and is not moving fast enough to fill the positions.

Shares in Ryanair, which fell by more than 3% in early trading, were 1.9% lower at 1315 GMT. (Reuters)

Source: www.businessworld.ie
LinkedIns new Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Headquarters was officially opened at Wilton Place in Dublin today by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald.



Linkedins Dublin operation serves the entire EMEA region supporting customers and members across two continents. The workforce includes people from 55 nations, in functions including sales, marketing, customer service, finance, analytics and engineering. LinkedIn is continuing to hire in Dublin, with more than 70 jobs currently advertised.



The five-storey building has been designed to create opportunities for LinkedIn staff and visitors to socialise, collaborate and exchange ideas. Some of the facilities include a music studio, a high-end gym and fitness studio, a restaurant, coffee bar, an expansive roof terrace and a games room.



A number of Irish companies were involved in the building works, and at the height of the construction, which was completed in two years, the project saw 360 workers on site every day.



The new building is the first that LinkedIn has built outside the USA, and is the result of an 85 million investment. The development was undertaken in order to meet the needs of LinkedIns growing workforce in Ireland, which has increased from three employees to 1,200 in just seven years.



Speaking at the opening ceremony today, An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar said, "When LinkedIn first came to Ireland in 2010 we were in the middle of one of our darkest periods economically. But today, thanks to the sacrifices of the Irish people and the policies pursued by the Government, our economy has recovered, and we are now facing the future with renewed confidence. Over the last seven years, the LinkedIn workforce here in Dublin has grown from just three staff members to 1,200. Indeed, LinkedIn's belief in Ireland as a location for investment has contributed to our economic recovery."



Head of LinkedIn Ireland, Sharon McCooey added, "With our new EMEA HQ in the heart of Dublin, we have an office that we are proud to call home, and we are honoured that An Taoiseach and An Tanaiste were able to join us for this landmark moment for our growth in Ireland. The level of our investment reflects our commitment to Ireland and the great work our amazing team in Dublin does every day."

Source: www.businessworld.ie
If you've heard anything about the Lux Center for the Arts' recent renovations, the term "doubling" is bound to have come up. As in: doubling space, doubling capacity and generally doubling most everything the arts center in University Place does.

Thanks to completing the first phase of Lux's renovation plan, the center's capacity for arts education has greatly expanded. To borrow from the movie "Field of Dreams": Lux built it, and now the people are coming.

More than a century ago, Lux's building  located at 48th and Baldwin streets near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's East Campus  was the city hall of the town of University Place. There, the town's mayor worked in his office, and its city council convened in its chambers.

Lincoln annexed University Place in 1926, and at times the building was a fire station and then a restaurant before, in 1984, it was purchased by Nebraska Wesleyan Professor Gladys Lux, who eventually donated it as an arts center. Since then, it's been the home of the University Place Art Center, eventually renamed the Lux Center for the Arts, holding its gallery and instructional space.

Lux Executive Director Susan McIntosh Kriz said the first phase involved purchasing two adjacent buildings. Remodeling finished in June, she said, and now Lux boasts a new ceramics center with two dedicated classrooms  one with 12 potters wheels for wheel-throwing ceramics, and the other classroom for hand-building. The newly renovated buildings also have four kilns, a plaster room for molds, four artists-in-residence studios and a clay mixing room, which contains all the different elements a ceramicist needs.

Expanded educational opportunities

"What we've done is effectively double our classroom space," Kriz said. "It's allowed us to have more offerings and to serve more students at one time. We've already seen an increase." Kriz said the Lux doubled the number of adults taking classes since the space opened and has seen a 50 percent increase in youth students since 2016.

Lindsey Clausen, Lux's education director, noted that thanks to the "fabulous new facilities," Lux has been able to expand its educational opportunities to new and different types of students.

"We have students from all walks of life and all artistic abilities, as well as professional artists," Clausen said.

Now, because of these changes, Kriz said, Lux can fulfill its mission better than ever. Its mission includes, she said, "Giving people the opportunity to experience art in all its forms." The idea is that, at Lux, an interested person could even go all the way from novice to professional.

"A person can come here at every stage," Kriz said. "A person can learn to make art, a person can see art, and also work with emerging artists in the process."

At Lux, the artists-in-residence do more than just hone their craft: they are expected to help others, too.

"All the classes are being taught by serious emerging artists who are highly educated in their areas," Kriz said.

As a particularly appropriate demonstration of this expanded effort, the newly renovated building's entryway is a new student gallery, which has proven to be especially popular.

"We have found there to be a lot of enthusiasm surrounding that," Kriz said.

Phase one of the renovations was funded primarily from private donations from individuals, corporations and private foundations. Fundraising began about four years ago.

Over halfway through $1 million fundraising goal for phase 2

Although a lot of work has been done, "It's been a long time in the planning process," Kriz emphasized. More is planned. Lux is now more than halfway through its fundraising goal of $1 million for the second phase of its renovation. The goal is to renovate the original building  the old city hall  to upgrade the electrical wiring, restrooms and kitchen; to refinish the old floors; and to put in a new HVAC system.

"A lot of what we need to do surrounds taking care of the building so we can continue to serve," Kriz said. "It's served us well for a long time, and it has a long life ahead of it."

As Lux continues to educate Lincolnites, both Clausen and Kriz seem focused on making sure the revised physical space stays true to its vision. It's right there in Lux's motto, if you Google it: "Real art  for everyone."

"Its about making something accessible to the community that wasnt there before," Clausen said.

With new facilities, it's become more accessible than ever.
Ten days after the Ryan International School, Gurgaon, re-opened, students and parents still showed panic in their emotions. The school was earlier closed on account of the murder of an eight-year-old student who was found dead inside the school premises with his throat slit.

Government takes charge

The Haryana government on Monday took administrative control of the school that saw very less attendance even after a long leave following the gory incident.

Safety of students under stake

If an innocent boy as young as a class 2 student is murdered right in the school, what is the guarantee of other students in the school? This was the fear that was seen in the faces of the parents who dropped by with their children at the school. The incident has paved way for many protests in the parts of the country.

How to Keep Out Children from Blue Whale Challenge?

Action taken

A suspect - conductor of the school bus has been arrested over the murder and the state government has handed over the probe into the incident to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Panic-stricken parents

Even as continued action was taken, parents were diffident of student safety. They also alleged of the irregular timing of the school bus and irresponsible school authorities who failed to keep them informed of the bus timings and other schedules.

They also demanded student safety guidelines by city police made mandatory for Gurgaon schools

With attendance very low, each class had as less as three to four students alone. This led to the non-functioning of the school. No classes were held on Monday even as several parents said they were considering withdrawing their wards from the school.

Parents also complained of their children's fear to attend school and the management's apathy in even counselling or comforting them. Police personnel were also deployed in civilian clothes to be careful enough to not intimidate the students.

How to Prevent Student Abuse in Schools?
St. Stephen's College, New Delhi is only a few steps away from becoming an Autonomous institution. The college which is known for its rough and tough cut off marks, have been at it to get the status. But currently the situation looks like, there is one more stone that the college needs to push off their track.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has put up new guidelines on the autonomous colleges and thus St. Stephen's would have to start a fresh application because of the revised forms.

The college had applied for the autonomous status on March 25, 2017. The students and the faculty members put forth the fact that they weren't informed about the application for the status change and thus had objected to it. The college focused getting the application through but now with the UGC's revised format the St. Stephen's College would require to start from the bottom.

The HRD Ministry and the UGC will be coming together for a meeting with the principals of various colleges in the country to put an end to all misapprehensions about the topic of autonomy. Information about the scheme will be provided by the officials and misconceptions about money related issues will be clarified.

A senior UGC official said "A number of colleges fear that autonomy will come with a cut in finances, which is clearly not the case. We want good institutes to opt for autonomy. Colleges with academic and operative freedom do better than others, and possess more credibility."

The UGC Guidelines for the Autonomous Colleges 2017 mentions that a college which comes under the scheme will be given the opportunity to decide its own courses and will be able to restructure the syllabus to adhere to local needs, The guidelines will also help in making it focus on skills , along with a stress on requirements for job.

JNU Admissions Open Through JNUEE: Apply from September 15!
Sen. Curt Friesen of Henderson has joined a list of incumbent senators who say they will seek re-election to the state Legislature in 2018.

Friesen's focus during his three years at the Capitol has been on property tax cuts, improving the state's economy and investing in the state's infrastructure, he said. That has included increasing the state property tax credit fund and expanding the personal property tax exemption, which benefits agriculture and small businesses.

Property tax relief remains his top priority as a member of the Legislature, he said, but the Legislature has more work to do, and he'll keep working on that effort, he said, as well as on job creation and economic development across the state.

That includes expanding access to rural broadband.

"Nebraskans from every corner of our state should be able to access high speed internet for their business, health care and education needs, Friesen said.

Friesen, 62, also pointed to his work on transportation issues, in particular the Transportation Innovation Act passed in 2016, which dedicates funding to complete the states expressway system, for county bridge repair and replacement, and transportation projects that support economic development.

Weve made real progress focusing state resources on high priority transportation needs," he said. "A strong and reliable road system is critical to bring agriculture commodities from farm to market as efficiently and safely as possible, and weve made progress in this area.

Friesen represents District 34, which includes all of Hamilton, Merrick and Nance counties and a portion of Hall County, including a section of the city of Grand Island.

Friesen chairs the Legislatures Transportation and Telecommunications Committee and is vice chairman of the Revenue Committee.

He has previously served as president of Hamilton County Corn Growers, vice chair of the Nebraska Corn Board, vice chair of the National Corn Growers Public policy action team, board chairman of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District and a member of the Hamilton County Farm Bureau.

He is a graduate of Southeast Community College in Milford.
The future of cement

Philip Kerton By

Published 18 September 2017

In the first of two reports from the recent international symposium, The Future of Cement that took place in Paris, we look at the role played by Louis Vicat in the industrialisation of modern cements and the latest developments in terms of materials chemistry and cement manufacturing.

Held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris this June, The Future of Cement was organised by the French Cement Industry Union (SFIC), the Technical Association of the Hydraulic Binders Industry (ATILH) and the French National Commission for UNESCO. ICR was among the sponsoring partners. With an international audience of almost 450 delegates, the event gave an overview of the most recent developments in cement research and how the industry has developed since its inception in the early 1800s.

To continue reading this story and get access to all News, Articles and Video sections of the CemNet.com website, please Register for a subscription to International Cement Review or Login
Hetauda cement completes kiln and cooler maintenance work

18 September 2017

The state-owned Hetauda Cement Factory in Nepal resumed operations from Friday after being closed for 36 days for maintenance. A team of 35 technicians from India disassembled the cement plant and repaired the grate cooler and kiln.



"We have already given continuity to cement production after completing repair and maintenance works," said Prem Shankar Singh, general manager of Hetauda Cement. "This maintenance will increase the production capacity of the factory.



"These components were assembled more than 30 years ago and were never repaired until recently," said Singh. After the maintenance, the production capacity of our factory is expected rise by 10 to 15 per cent."



Maintenance and repair works cost the cement plant NPR20m (US$195,251). But Raghu Raman Neupane, chairman of the operating committee of the factory, said it was worth the expense. "The maintenance was done with the aim of increasing production capacity." said Mr Neupane.

The operational cost of the factory remains high at NPR30m for electricity each month. More than 221kW of power is required to produce one tonne of cement at the factory. In contrast, private factories are using 95-100kWof electricity to produce the same amount of cement.

The factory management and the board have been making efforts to reduce the cost of production. According to officials, the factory has been facing problems in cutting down production cost after the government announced 25 per cent hike in employees' salary last fiscal year. The plant currently employs around 395 people.

Before undergoing maintenance, the factory was producing cement at up to 64 per cent of the installed capacity and the production was 63 per cent during the last fiscal year, claims Kathmandu Port.



The factory is planning to increase the production capacity to more than 70 per cent of the installed capacity, according to Singh. Last fiscal year, the factory produced 138,000t of clinker although the target was to produce 150,000t.



Similarly, the factory produced 2.76m bags of cement instead of the target of 3.1m bags in the last fiscal year, the paper reports. This year, the state-owned factory plans to produce 180,000t of clinker and 3.7m bags of cement in the current fiscal year which will end in July 2018.

Published under
Pakistan cement sales up 11% in August

ICR Newsroom By 18 September 2017

Cement sales in Pakistan rose 10.9 per cent YoY in August 2017 to 3.766Mt from 3.585Mt in August 2016.



In the northern region, dispatches reached 2.731Mt, up from 2.495Mt in August 2016, while in the southern region dispatches rose from 0.532Mt to 0.625Mt during the same period.



Some 307,000t of cement was exported from the north, significantly less than 355,000t reported in August 2016. Exports from the south slipped from 203,000t to 103,000t.



Capacity utilisation in August surpassed the 96 per cent mark, according to the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association.



In the first two months of this financial year, Pakistani cement plants delivered 7.148Mt, up 21 per cent YoY. Domestic consumption improved 28 per cent YoY, exports declined 13 per cent YoY.



Cement demand in the north increased by 28.5 per cent in the north and by 25.4 per cent in the south in July-August 2017. Exports in the north and south declined by 2.5 and 25.4 per cent, respectively during this period.

Published under
With tensions mounting on the Korean peninsula, the world is watching and waiting to see what will happen. However, one could say South Korea is being a little more proactive in its attempts to prevent war from ever coming. The South Korean defense minister has been bragging about the newly created Decapitation Unit, tasked with the sole purpose of assassinating Kim Jong Un. Lets take a closer look at this elite unit, including what the experts believe about a solution (No. 7).

1. The Decapitation Unit has an official name

The actual name of the unit is the Spartan 3000. The nickname Decapitation Unit is merely a marketing strategy used to grab the attention of the North Korean heads of state (pun intended). The unit will be comprised of somewhere between 2,000 and 4,000 troops. The New York Times reports that defense minister Song Young-Moo expects the unit to be ready by now, and has boasted that they have already been converting the necessary equipment to penetrate North Korean airspace at night.

Next: Why is North Korea being so brazen?



2. Nuclear war is looming

There is no doubt now that North Korea has nuclear capabilities, and tensions are at an all-time high. Things have gotten so dire that the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock up to two-and-a-half minutes to midnight, so it seems that it would make sense for someone to be proactive in trying to remove the threat. But the real reason that South Korea is doing this is not to actually attempt the assassination of Kim Jong Un.

Next: The most likely result should terrify you.

3. Attacking North Korea could mean millions of lives lost for the South

The most likely outcome is that North Korea will see this for what it is: an act of aggression from its southern neighbor. That will spell disaster, especially if it tries to penetrate the borders with the Decapitation Unit. Any eventuality could result in everything going from bad to worse. Seoul is just 30 miles from the border of North Korea, and can easily be shelled from that position. Its also one of the most densely populated cities on the planet, and would result in one of the largest losses of civilian life from war in our history.

Next: The real reason is shockingly simple.

4. The real reason South Korea is puffing out its chest

What South Korea wants to do is scare North Korean leadership into coming to the table to start a real conversation. Former South Korean Lt. Gen. Shin Won-sik told The New York Times, The best deterrence we can have, next to having our own nukes, is to make Kim Jong Un fear for his life. Currently South Korea does not have a nuclear armament to deter North Koreas arsenal. But the United States heavy presence in South Korea does work for now.

Next: This is nothing new for Korean Politics.

5. North Korea boasts its nuclear arsenal all the time

North Korea has been pulling the same maneuver since its nation was first formed. Since then, North Korea has often made big boasts about its plans to use nuclear weapons to destroy the West. Then, the West comes to negotiate and brings to the table, food, fuel, or energy technologies. The only reason that North Korea actually has a nuclear weapon now is that almost every deal the West has made, it has defaulted on.

Next: Will this move work?

6. Will North Korea come to the table?

There is really no telling what North Korea will do at this point. One can hope that it will come to the table, and tensions will cease. If North Korea does agree to negotiate, it will likely demand that this unit is disbanded, and that South Korea cease any plans of regime change or aggression to the North. In return, South Korea will provide aid to the country in food, fuel, or energy technologies. However, this is the least likely of all outcomes.

Next: How is the U.S. responding?

7. Most experts agree on a solution

Most experts are in agreement that any act of aggression will be absolutely terrible for South Korea. Many arent sure if its bluff will work either. United States Secretary of Defense General Jim Mattis said that it will be a war more serious in terms of human suffering than anything weve seen since 1953.  It will involve the massive shelling of an allys capital, which is one of the most densely packed cities on earth. Suffice it to say, de-escalation is the best and only solution for all involved.

Next: How insane is North Korea?

8. How insane is North Korea?

North Korea has exploded a nuclear weapon underground, as well as testing ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. While it has not demonstrated it can put two and two together, it has not demonstrated it cant. Just as its dictators motives remain cloudy, so does the countrys exact arsenal. One Trump official cautioned against understating the threat, noting that in 1950, the Norths strength was also underestimated.

Next: The Trump administration is not backing down.

9. The Trump administration is not backing down

In a Sept. 15 press briefing, security advisor H.R. McMaster and Haley acknowledged military options, wrote CNN. That breaks with a statement made by Steve Bannon in August.

Forget it. Until somebody solves the part of the equation that shows me that 10 million people in Seoul dont die in the first 30 minutes from conventional weapons, I dont know what youre talking about, he said. Theres no military solution here, they got us.

We are prepared, were prepared militarily, were prepared with our allies to respond militarily, Tillerson told reporters. The problem with that action remains the mass of conventional artillery Pyongyang can point at Seoul, where 25 million people live. Analysts say North Korea would not hesitate to kill tens of thousands of civilians in response to a U.S. strike. If Trump does take military action, retaliation remains possible.

Follow The Cheat Sheet on Facebook!
Pakistani Christian handed death sentence for 'blasphemy'

A Christian man has been sentenced to death in Pakistan for allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad.

Nadeem James, 35, was convicted under the country's controversial blasphemy laws on Friday with his lawyer, Riaz Anjum, saying he was framed.

James went on the run last July before being arrested after he was accused of sending a poem to his friend on WhatsApp that was derogatory about the Islamic prophet.

But defence lawyer Anjum told AFP news agency he was being falsely accused because his friend was angered about an affair James, a Christian, was allegedly having with a Muslim woman.

'Mr James was handed a death sentence by the court on Thursday on blasphemy charges,' he said.

'My client will appeal the sentence in the high court as he has been framed by his friend, who was annoyed over Mr James' affair with a Muslim girl.'

Under Pakistan's blasphemy laws anyone accused of insulting Islam can be sentenced to death. Although no death sentences have been carried out, a number of those accused of blasphemy have been killed by mobs.

Human rights groups and Christian persecution charities say the law is used to settle personal scores and extrajudicial killings against religious minorities.

There have been at least 67 murders over unproven allegations of blasphemy since 1990, according to figures from a research centre and independent records kept by Reuters.

Earlier this month a Christian teenager was beaten to death by his Muslim classmates.

Sharoon Masih, 17, was battered by fellow pupils in a classroom in the Vehari District in Punjab, Pakistan, just days into his first term as the lone Christian student at a new school,

The 2017 World Watch List of the 50 countries in which it is most difficult to be a Christian by the Christian charity Open Doors places Pakistan at number four.
Tim Farron: Marginalised Christians are 'doing something right'

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron has said he doesn't feel marginalised as a Christian in the UK, but said that Christians should expect to struggle as they 'go against the grain' of society.

'The moment you show any signs of actually believing in this creed, of thinking that this stuff about Jesus might even be true or that this faith might in any way impact on your conscience or your life choices... well, we don't like that one bit. So are Christians especially marginalised? I'm not sure, but if we are then we are probably doing something right,' Farron wrote yesterday in a comment piece for the i.

Farron's Christian faith took centre stage in the UK's latest general election, particularly as he came under increasing fire for his ambiguous position on whether homosexuality is sinful. After the election Farron resigned as his party's leader, citing an incompatibility with leading a liberal, progressive party and being a faithful Christian.

A recent survey by the Christian media group Premier said that nine in 10 British Christians feel marginalised for their faith. In contrast, despite previous comments, Farron said that he didn't feel marginalised as a Christian in politics.

He wrote: 'Now, being harangued by journalists or slagged off by political opponents for my faith, hardly compares with the struggles of being a Christian in North Korea, where you have a one in four chance of being imprisoned for your faith. But the point is that Christian faith will go against the grain, if you aren't struggling at least a bit against the expectations and assumptions of the world  then well, you should be!'

He said that 'Christianity is counter cultural and it always has been', and that Christians who take the teachings of Christ seriously  those for whom faith is not merely 'cultural'  should expect some conflict with society and politics.

'My own experience during the election tells me that people don't mind people of faith in politics  so long as their faith is only of the cultural variety,' Farron wrote.

He added: 'If you had to pick a country in the world in which to live freely as a Christian, you'd probably pick the UK. However, many Christians do feel marginalised, and they are meant to...the Bible tells us regularly that our faith will go against the grain, that we'll suffer for being a Christian. Being Christian is not meant to be easy.'
On July 17, 2014, in what normally would have been a routine action, police arrested an illegal street vendor. He resisted arrest, and police wrestled him to the ground. Given his poor healthhe was asthmatic, obese (395 pounds), and suffered from heart diseasethat resistance proved a fatal error. The vendor suffered cardiac failure in the ambulance on the way to the hospital, where he died.

Most people are familiar with the details of the Eric Garner case and its ensuing outrage, but three years later, the case against the arresting officer, Daniel Pantaleo, remains unsettled. At the end of August, he received a letter informing him that New York Citys Civilian Complaint Review Board was recommending the harshest punishment possible: departmental charges that could lead to suspension or dismissal. And the U.S. Justice Department continues a civil-rights investigation that could culminate in criminal charges.

Context is everything here. The Garner case became a cause celebre because Garner was black and Pantaleo was white, and the death fit a media narrative about interracial law-enforcement confrontationswhich, after the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, a few weeks later, became a national obsession. But the facts of the Garner case demonstrate that the incident bears little resemblance to such characterizations. An NYPD lieutenant directed Pantaleo and his partner to arrest Garner, so charges that the officer singled him out because of his race are nonsense. The arrest order was issued because this part of Staten Islandnear the ferry dockswas the subject of repeated complaints about illegal street vendors diverting customers from shops and even selling drugs. The spot at which the Garner arrest took place had been the site of at least 98 arrests, 100 criminal court summonses, 646 calls to 911, and nine complaints to 311 in 2014 alone. Garner had had at least three previous encounters with police that year; he had been arrested twice and given a warning. At the time of the fatal incident, he was free on bail for offenses including selling untaxed cigarettes, driving without a license, marijuana possession, and impersonation.

The case against Pantaleo rests on the supposed chokehold that he used to make the arrest. He never sought to choke Garner to death, or even injure him. He was doing his job, taking a resisting man to the ground, as NYPD regulations provide. Had Garner been cooperative, as the officers requested, the confrontation would never have happened. We can do this the easy way or the hard way, Pantaleos partner had told him.

Garner resisted when the police tried to grab his flailing arms. Every time you see me, you want to mess with me, he exclaimed. Im tired of it. It stops today. Pantaleo put his forearm around Garners neck and twisted him to the ground, probably the simplest way of subduing a man of Garners girth. Pantaleo then held Garners head down to the sidewalk. The neck-holdcharacterized by the Medical Examiners office as a chokeholdlasted 15 seconds. Pantaleo released it once Garner was down on the sidewalk.

At this point, Garner repeatedly said I cant breathe, the words that immortalized the incident and became a Black Lives Matter mantra. But when Garner said that, Pantaleo already had released his neck-hold; Garner probably was having breathing difficulties because of his asthma. Supervising officers at the scene, including an African-American police sergeant, apparently didnt think that Garner was being abused, or that he was in medical distress. They did nothing to interfere.

Pantaleo was taken before a grand jury in September 2014, presumably to consider criminal-homicide charges. After months of testimony, the grand jury refused to indict. Pantaleo had a compelling defense. New York Penal Law Article 35.30 expressly states that a police officer justifiably uses physical force when and to the extent he or she reasonably believes such to be necessary to effect the arrest. Garners arrest was lawful because Pantaleo reasonably believed that force was neededGarner was uncooperative. It was Garners preexisting conditions that made the confrontation lethal, not wrongful excessive force on Pantaleos part.

Federal civil rights charges are even more problematic. The government must prove that Pantaleo willfully deprived the victim of a constitutional rightthat he intended to deprive the victim of his rights. But the evidence supports only Pantaleos intent to make an arrest.

Police should not be afraid to carry out their duties. The Pantaleo case tells cops that, even if theyre just doing their job, they cant count on institutional support if the incident becomes a media sensation. New York Citys safety, like that of any city, depends on police feeling secure in performing their duties. Its time to end Officer Pantaleos ordeal. NYPD chief James ONeill and U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions should step up to the plate and dismiss the unwarranted charges against him.

Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images
After the Cabinet Office appeared to reject calls to reform the Lobbying Act, the minister for civil society Tracey Crouch has promised to work with charities to make sure the rules are understood and give charities complete confidence to campaign.

Charities had called for the recommendations of a review by Lord Hodgson to be enacted as soon as possible, saying that the Act in its current form had discouraged the sector from campaigning during the election campaign.

But on Friday the Cabinet Office said it has no plans to amend the Act. It is understood that the reason no action is being taken is because the legislative session is already full.

A rare two-year Parliamentary session began in June 2017, meaning that the government will not bring forward a new Queens speech to outline planned legislation until 2019.

Sector leaders said that they were dismayed by the governments refusal to amend the Lobbying Act.

Response from the charities minister

Some of the sectors concerns about the Act relate to confusion around how aspects of it could be interpreted, with NCVO warning during the election that fear of the law was doing more harm than the law itself  though NCVO still said it wanted the law to be improved.

Crouch has now said that she will work with the sector to make sure it is understood and that charities feel confident campaigning.

In a statement Crouch said: Charities play an essential role in our democracy. Non partisan campaigning helps raise awareness and funds for important issues and I will work with voluntary bodies and the charity sector to ensure that rules are well understood and that they have complete confidence to continue non-party political campaigning.

Utter contempt for the sector

The Labour shadow minister Steve Reed reiterated his partys commitment to repealing the Lobbying Act and again accused the government of treating the sector with contempt.

He said: Its shocking that the government are ignoring the Hodgson reviews recommendations. Its the latest in a long line of decisions which show utter contempt for the sector.

Yet again this weak government has shown they are afraid to be challenged and fearful of being questioned.

Over 100 organisations have now publicly called for the government to remove the gag theyve placed on charities. A Labour government will listen to them and scrap the Lobbying Act so charities can once again speak up for the people they work with.
In a blog on the Department for Media, Culture and Sport website, Tracey Crouch has announced that this years Local Charities Day will be held on 15 December.

Writing in a blog which was published on the DCMSs website on Friday, Tracey Crouch, minister for civil society, said Local Charities Day would be held on 15 December this year and will look to highlight the work of small charities that are making remarkable differences in their communities.

It will also shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes and celebrate the commitment of those amazing volunteers who devote their time to improving the lives of others, wrote Crouch.

Crouchs blog said that over the next three months, DCMS will be showcasing the work of a range of local charities from around the country through its blog, as well as through DCMS social media channels; including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Last years inaugural day, announced by the then minister for civil society Rob Wilson at the Charity Finance Summit in October 2016, saw the government deliver over 900 learning opportunities for charities across the UK, including some 560 fundraising face-to-face training programmes across eight cities, delivered in partnership with the Foundation for Social Improvement.

The Office for Civil Society also pledged 5,000 worth of match-funding for the #GiveMe5 campaign, which ran on Local Charities Day itself.

The Department for Media, Culture and Sport has been contacted for further comment about its specific plans for this years Local Charities Day.

'Changes needed at a local and naitonal level'

The Lloyds Bank Foundation, which earlier this year published a report highlighting the challenges faced by small charities, has called for the government to also tackle the issues holding the sector back.

Duncan Shrubsole, director of policy, partnerships and communications at Lloyds Bank Foundation said: Small and local charities play a vital but often unseen role in our communities across England and Wales, working on the frontline to tackle disadvantage and deliver positive change.

"Anything that celebrates and highlights the important contribution made by small and local charities must be welcomed but if the government really wants to support these vital organisations, it needs to tackle the key issues holding them back today, not wait until December.

"We speak to small and local charities every day who tell us of the real pressures they face, trying to help more people with more complex needs at a time of unprecedented cuts to funding and poor commissioning practices that deny them the resources they need. The government should use Local Charities Day to announce how it will deliver the changes needed at national and local level so small charities can continue to deliver vital services for local people and communities.
The Legislature has heard a number of proposals in recent years to modify mandatory minimum sentencing laws, and prosecutors continue fighting to keep that from happening.

At an hearing in front of the Judiciary Committee Friday, prosecutors and law enforcement officers said they want no changes, even as supporters say it could help the state address prison overcrowding.

Judges should be able to sentence an offender based on individual circumstances of both the criminal and the crime, rather than have to follow a prescribed sentence, they say.

But Corey O'Brien, the criminal bureau chief of the Nebraska Attorney General's Office argued modification of mandatory minimum sentences compromises public safety.

"And (it) has the potential to promote disrespect for our laws," he said.

When senators return for the 2018 session, they will likely take up a bill (LB447) that was Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers' priority bill in the 2017 session. The bill as amended would apply only to serious drug felonies, such as dealing methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.

Mandatory minimum sentencing laws require a minimum prison term of a particular length. With such laws judges have no discretion to go lower than the minimum sentence and probation is not an option. In Nebraska, an inmate serving a mandatory minimum sentence will not earn or receive good time credit for his or her behavior while serving the mandatory sentence.

One of the options the committee could consider is allowing a sentencing judge for an offender convicted of a crime that carries a mandatory minimum penalty to decide not to impose that sentence if there are certain mitigating factors.

During a hearing on his bill in February, Chambers said mandatory minimums do not protect the public or deter crimes. Those who commit crimes don't know what the penalty is, he said, and they don't plan or expect to get caught.

O'Brien offered the committee a look at those offenders who are serving prison sentences under the mandatory minimum laws.

Of the 5,295 people in prison a week ago, 1,015  19 percent  are serving a mandatory minimum sentences. Eightly-four percent of them were previously convicted of a felony, and 69 percent previously in prison.

"This number is absolutely stunning," he said.

He empathizes with police officers because they have to deal with this on a day in and day out basis, he said.

About 13 percent, or 712 inmates, had been convicted of Class 1C and 1D felonies, and 87 of making or dealing cocaine, heroin or methamphetamines.

Of those, 54 were also concurrently sentenced for other felony offenses.

"These are the people the public demands to be in prison for a substantial period of time," O'Brien said.

Captain Scott Gray of the Omaha Police Department testified for continued use of mandatory minimum sentencing. It is an important part of the department's violent crime reduction strategy, he said.

"Deterring these individuals with firm, known punishments is likely to save citizens from injury or death, and prevent further psychological damage to the community," Gray said.

Spike Eickholt, on behalf of the ACLU of Nebraska, told the committee Chambers' bill does not apply to gun crimes, sexual assault of a child, or any of the other "horror stories" from the opposition, but only those certain drug crimes.

In fact, there are some serious crimes that do not require mandatory minimum sentences, including robbery, forcible rape, manslaughter, burglary, and the judge that hears the case decides the person's fate, he said.

With a person convicted of possessing 10 grams of methamphetamine, however, a judge must assign a mandatory minimum sentence of three to 15 years, even if it is a first offense.

Chambers' bill is a component of the solution to avoid unnecessary and lengthy prison terms, Eickholt said.

Mandatory minimums are popular with prosecutors because it gives them significant leverage to negotiate, he said, and the opportunity to determine an offender's sentence.

Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks told O'Brien she hoped he understood "we're all fighting for the safety of our communities.

"And now what we're doing is quibbling about where that stands, whether we trust the judges and want to go forward and give them the authority to set the standards, or whether we want to just mandatorily say every case is (the same), and have a broad brush painting what happens."
The number of social enterprises in the UK small business population is likely to number approximately 471,000, with social enterprises more vulnerable to changes in the public sector, a government report has found.

The Social Enterprise: Market Trends 2017 report was commissioned jointly by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

It found that due to social enterprises are more likely than small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to have the public sector as a customer which means that social enterprises appear more vulnerable to changes in the public sector.

It also found that nearly 9 per cent of the UK small business population are social enterprises.

The report revealed that roughly 1.44 million people are employed by social enterprises. Of the approximately 471,000 UK social enterprises, 99,000 social enterprises had employees and 371,000 with no employees.

It said that social enterprise employers tend to be more sustainable and more dynamic businesses in certain respects. For instance, nearly all social enterprise employers generated a surplus/profits in the last year, compared to three quarters of small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) employers.

Social enterprise employers were also more likely than SME employers to try and access information on day-to-day operations or strategic advice to help grow the business. The report found that 35 per cent social enterprises did this compared to 21 per cent SME employers.

'Higher levels of innovation'

Social enterprise employers also reported higher levels of innovation, were more optimistic with regard to longer-term growth prospects (over three years), and more open to advice and external information, compared to SMEs.

However social enterprise employers were also less internationally focussed as indicated by the lower rates of exporting compared to SME employers.

The survey was based on sampling for the BEISs Small Business Survey (SBS) and included 1,300 business owners and managers and respondents.

The report outlined the difficulties in defining social enterprises, with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and Cabinet Office using different definitions. A 2014 survey of SBS respondents were resurveyed with suspicions over the unreliability of SBS survey questions being used to identity social enterprises confirmed.

It states: Consequently, this research set out to make revisions to the methodology. It did so following best practice to develop and revise survey questions in social science research.

Vulnerable to public sector changes

The report also said that because social enterprise employers are more likely than SME employers to have the public sector as a customer, they also appear to be more vulnerable to changes in the public sector. It showed that 60 per cent of social enterprises employers had the public sector as a employer in the past year, compared to 43 per cent of SME employers.

Nick Temple, deputy chief executive of Social Enterprise UK, which formed part of the advisory group on this work with government, said: Social Enterprise UK welcomes this most recent report from central government on social enterprise. We are particularly pleased that the definition used for the research is now in line with that widely accepted by the social enterprise movement itself, which gives it more credibility.

Whilst the sample is relatively small, the findings echo some of those of our own State of Social Enterprise survey; notably, that social enterprises are more likely to innovate with new products and services, more likely to be delivering public services, and more likely to seek external finance than their SME equivalents.
Last week was a triumph for the rehabilitation of Sean Spicers image. On Wednesday, Harvard University announced that he would be a visiting fellow, and later that day, he appeared in a lengthyand mostly friendlyinterview on Jimmy Kimmel Live! A few days later, on stage at the Emmys, he smiled his way through a cheeky reenactment of one of his most infamous professional moments: when, during one of his first appearances as White House Press Secretary, he emphatically delivered false information about the size of the crowds at Donald Trumps inauguration. It was almost enough to make you forget that less than three months ago Spicer departed the White House amidst a cloud of scorn and ridicule.

The smiling, happy-go-lucky Sean Spicer of last week was a long way from the combative, condescending, and less and less available Spicer of earlier this year. And some journalists were appalled by the transformation. On Twitter, Slates Jamelle Bouie wrote, The degree to which Sean Spicer has faced no consequences is a glimpse into the post-Trump future, and Fast Companys Joe Berkowitz wrote, Lets not let people like Spicer and Mooch become Cute Things. They were lying mouthpieces, utter disgraces. They should be shunned forever. On Facebook, Dan Rather added, It is not funny that the American people were lied to. It is not funny that the press was attacked for doing its job. It is not funny that the norms of our democracy have been trampledTo have Sean Spicer now lead us in laughter about all this makes me uneasy.

Some journalists were appalled by the transformation.

But if journalists are feeling queasy about Spicers second act fueled by entertainers and academics, they dont necessarily need to sound off on social media; they simply need to practice some of the basic tenets of the profession. One of the core jobs of journalism is providing context and perspective. And its hard, maybe impossible, to imagine what Spicer could do in the coming months that would be as newsworthy as his six months as press secretary. Unless he cures cancer, his celebrity appearances and appointments should be treated as a footnote to his overall story.

ICYMI: One question that turns courageous journalists into cowards

Its also a disservice to readers to report on Spicers post-White House life and not mention how unusual and controversial his tenure was. This is a guy famous for meeting with reporters near the bushes on White House grounds, for coining the phrase Holocaust centers, for creating the necessity for courtroom sketch artists in the White House briefing room, for defending the detention and vetting of a five-year-old Iranian immigrant. Events like these defined Spicers time at the White House, and its important to remind readers that they happened and why they matter.

Sign up for CJR 's daily email

Two pieces published on June 21, the day of Spicers White House departure, got it right. In a story headlined Sean Spicer Will Be Remembered for His Lies, The New Yorkers Ryan Lizza laid out some of the lowlights of Spicers tenure, including when he defended Trumps lie about how there were three million fraudulent votes in the 2016 election, spent weeks using shifting stories to defend Trumps lie about President Barack Obama wiretapping Trump Tower, erroneously claimed that Hitler never used chemical weapons, and lied about the nature of the meeting at Trump Tower in June, 2016, between senior Trump-campaign officials and several people claiming to have information about Hillary Clinton from the Russian government.

ICYMI: She is put through so much, and she does a remarkable job of handling it.

Meanwhile, The New York Times editorial board wrote a scathing send-off reminding readers of how often Spicer said the presidents tweets speak for themselves and how, after Trump stood before a memorial to Central Intelligence Agency officers killed on duty and lied about his inaugural crowds, [Spicer] said the C.I.A. employees gave him a five-minute standing ovation at the end in a display of their patriotism and their enthusiasm for his presidency.

Spicers recent star turn is also a reminder that holding the powerful to account doesnt end the moment they step down. If Spicer is appearing on national TV and speaking in Ivy League lecture halls, hes still wielding significant influence. Reporters should remember this, especially as he exploits his new and enhanced platform to defend the president, as he did on Kimmel. (To his credit, Kimmel pushed back on a number of Spicers claims.) Spokesmen, whether official or not, deserve hard questions.

Spicer is an American celebrity now; that much is indisputable. But when we cover him, journalists owe it to our readersand to historyto explain the far-from-comedic way he became one. Anything less is active participation in what Gore Vidal called the United States of Amnesia.

ICYMI: The New York Times tweet that angered some Twitter users

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Philip Eil is a freelance journalist based in Providence, Rhode Island. He sued the Drug Enforcement Administration under the FOIA, with help from the Rhode Island ACLU and two pro-bono attorneys, Neal McNamara and Jessica Jewell. Follow him on Twitter: @phileil.
Theres widespread agreement in the news media that the crisis in journalism threatens democracy. But theres some confusion about what exactly the crisis is, and therefore what the solutions need to be.

Journalism really faces two crisesone of the pocketbook and one of the soul. To address these twin problems, we will need a dramatically new approach at the local levelgrounded less in the traditional commercial model and more on a reawakened spirit of public service among reporters. We need a privately-financed national service program for journalists.

In a 2015 CJR article, we sketched the broad strokes of the idea. Remarkably, the concept is becoming a reality, launched today at the Google News Lab Summit, as an initiative of the GroundTruthProject, Google, and others.

Lets first quickly review why a radically different approach is needed. The first crisis, as CJR readers know, is one of business models. Its often described in terms of news organizations losing readers to the internet. Thats a bit off. The primary financial catastrophe has been news organizations losing advertisers to the internetespecially on the local level. As local businesses have shifted their dollars to digital platforms like Facebook and Google, newspaper revenues have plummeted. The local news economy is broken.

TRENDING: The lesson journalists should take away from Spicers rebranding

As a result, local newsrooms around the nation have been hollowed out. Since 1990, the number of newspaper jobs has dropped by almost half. The number of statehouse reporters has fallen by more than a third. Critical issues like the quality of schools, the competence of city government, the health of residents get ignored or covered superficially.

Sign up for weekly emails from the United States Project

The crisis of the soul, meanwhile, has a few elements. For starters, Americans mistrust the media more. The mistrust numbers among Republicans skyrocketed after Donald Trump launched his persistent campaign to convince people that journalists are the enemies of the country who routinely make up their information.

Perhaps its of some consolation that people seem to distrust the media but love their local news. So rebuilding local news, in which residents interact with journalists in a more direct way, is one path to restoring trust.

The other part of the spiritual problem relates to the kind of work reporters do. Those local journalists who do still have jobs feel pressured to do clickbait over deep reporting, opinion over fact, and in-the-cubicle social media over on-the-ground investigation. Volume is up, depth is down.

Not surprisingly, Americans often see reporters as a rather loathsome group. While 73 percent of Americans believe teachers contribute a lot to society and 65 percent say scientists doonly 28 percent believe that of journalists, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center. This is frustrating since most of the reporters or former reporters we know got into this line of work out of an earnest desire to make a positive difference.

Thats why we need to try a dramatically different approach based on the national and community service model created by organizations like Teach for America, AmeriCorps, Venture for America, and City Year.

Report for America will deploy an emerging generation of journalists in communities around the country doing civically important reporting in local newsrooms. Ultimately, RFA will put at least 1,000 local reporters on the ground.

Report for America will deploy an emerging generation of journalists in communities around the country doing civically important reporting in local newsrooms.

Heres how it will work. Emerging journalists will apply to Report for America, making the case why they are committed to truth and local public-service journalism. They may be right out of college, or have a few years reporting experience or be older people with special skills. For instance, veterans who have worked in public affairs operations have both journalistic chops and a proven ethic of service.

Local news organizations will then apply to get Report for America journalists, making the case that they will deploy these precious assets to do the kind of civically important reporting that is too often ignored. A wide range of local organizations will be eligible: newspapers, digital native news sites, public radio stations, local TV stations, wire services, or journalism schools.

The selected corps members will then be deployed to work in the newsrooms of these winning news organizations. There is no shortage of great local news organizations thirsty for this kind of reporting. Indeed, while newspapers have struggled, a new wave of digital startups, many of them nonprofits, have sprouted to fill the gaps. Report for America will eventually provide a powerful boost.

The program will not be funded by the government. Rather, it is structured to spread the cost and involvement between privately-financed national and local players. The national Report for America program will provide 50 percent of the cost to fund the annual salary for a local reporter. The local news organization and local donors will each provide 25 percent. Over time, the local share will grow.

ICYMI: 10 podcasts to help you keep up with the news cycle

One other element that makes this program different. While we believe that journalism often is public service, Report for America corps members will help in other ways too. Each will be required to do service in their communityin most cases working with local high schools and junior highs to create or improve the student-run news website or newspaper or to convene a public listening event that can bring the community together in a discussion framed by their reporting on an important subject in the community. We hope that this interaction of the reporters with the community also will help to improve the public understanding of and trust in the media.

Report for America will soon be taking applications for both would-be reporters and local news organizations for service projects throughout 2018.

These jobs will be tiring, hard, often unglamorous, and modestly paid. But they will be important. Our hope is that Report for America will permanently increase the local reporting capacity in the United States, and that these members will help provide the innovation necessary to rejuvenate community journalism. But those corps members who do not remain in journalism in the long run will be able to have an impact for the rest of their lives. They will return to their own communities knowing how to tell a communitys story and what its like to pursue the truth so hard that the fear of making an error causes you to wake up in the middle of the night. Theyll strengthen democracy by explaining to their neighbors what journalists aspire to do.

Most reporters have not stopped caring. Its just that thanks to the modern economics of journalism, they no longer have the opportunity to serve. Its time for a new approachone that is unabashedly patriotic and that calls upon idealistic, honest, whip-smart, and indefatigable reporters to go into under-covered towns and city neighborhoods around the country and tell stories. And its time for national philanthropies and local communities to support these efforts.

ICYMI: One question that turns courageous journalists into cowards

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Steven Waldman and Charles M. Sennott are the co-founders of Report for America. Sennott is founder and CEO of The GroundTruth Project and co-founder of GlobalPost as well as a longtime reporter for the Boston Globe. Waldman is founder of Beliefnet.com, LifePosts.com, and author of books about both local news and AmeriCorps.
Last week, UK Culture Secretary Karen Bradley referred 21st Century Foxs proposed takeover of Sky to a competition regulatora major blow to the Murdoch familys interests in the country. Should the deal go through, Sky, which is already 39 percent owned by the Murdochs, will join the Sun, the Times and talkRadio in the Murdochs British media empire, giving the family a bigger reach than any [UK] news provider apart from the BBC, The Guardian reports.

The British government hasnt just referred the deal because the Murdochs own such a large share of the UK media market. Bradley, against the advice of TV watchdog Ofcom, also cited broadcasting standards in her decision, apparently based on recent sexual assault allegations at Fox News and the networks inglorious coverage of the Seth Rich conspiracy. Its not the first time ethical questions have stalked the Murdochs Sky ambitions. In 2011, they dropped a previous bid for the network after their UK tabloids were found to have systematically hacked the voicemails of public figures.

The dual nature of the inquiry is welcome because, in the UK at least, the ethical standards of Murdoch properties have been inseparable from their dominant market share. As the phone-hacking scandal showed, Rupert Murdochs outsize influence led politicians and the police to turn a blind eye to illegal reporting practices at his titles for years. The government will have the final say on the Sky bid and may well still approve it, but the raising of ethics questions means that is no longer a sure thing.

Below, reaction to the referral and more from the UK:

Standing up to Rupert Murdoch: Editors at The Guardian, a long-time bete noire for Rupert Murdoch in the UK, praised the government for standing up to his quest to expand his global media empire.

Editors at The Guardian, a long-time bete noire for Rupert Murdoch in the UK, praised the government for standing up to his quest to expand his global media empire. The political reality: The Telegraphs business correspondent, Christopher Williams, says Bradleys decision was less about editorial standards at Fox and more about warding off a legal challenge which would further have weakened the governing Conservative Party.

Open for business: Speaking at the Royal Television Society convention after the referral, Ruperts son James Murdoch warned the British government that blocking the takeover would show the country is not truly open for business in the wake of Brexit.

Fake news? Unrelatedly, a different press regulator in the UK ordered the Mail on Sunday to publish a retraction after it falsely claimed that world leaders had been duped by exaggerated climate data in the runup to the Paris agreement.

Other notable stories

In another desperate attempt to show hes in on the joke, Sean Spicer made a surprise cameo at the Emmys last night. Reaction was mixedboth in the room and online.

Rolling Stone magazine is going up for sale. One potential suitor is Trump pal and National Enquirer publisher David Pecker, whos done business with the magazines owners before.

ICYMI, ESPNs public editor Jim Brady weighed in on the Jemele Hill controversy, criticizing parts of the companys reaction, but saying Hill put it in a difficult position. On Friday, CJRs Justin Ray interviewed ThinkProgress reporter Lindsay Gibbs, who scooped the world with her revelation that ESPN tried to keep Hill off-air on Wednesday.

After 51 days in a Turkish jail and a concerted diplomatic lobbying campaign on his behalf, French reporter Loup Bureau returned home this weekend. His case once again spotlights deteriorating press freedom in Turkey.

And Michael Grimm, the Staten Island congressman who threatened to throw a NY1 reporter off a balcony and was later jailed for tax fraud, wants his old seat back.

Sign up for CJR 's daily email

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
ABB , a major player in the realm of robotics, automation and power generation, is fiercely committed to the global shift to electric vehicle transportation.

The transformation from traditional cars to electric ones is "a huge opportunity" that will enable ABB to "work with smart cities of the future," Chairman Peter Voser told CNBC on the sidelines of the Singapore Summit over the weekend.

ABB currently helps design, build and maintain infrastructure for electric cars. Earlier this year, it launched a new product in Malaysia that reduced charging time for EV vehicles to 15 minutes.

More still needs to be done to improve the EV landscape in consumer transportation, such as cars and buses, Voser warned. In particular, "we need vast investment for charging stations," he said.

The Swiss-based multinational supplies power through high-voltage direct current technology into cities and consumers, Voser explained. "On the other side, we're also working with car manufacturers because quite clearly, they need our robots, our automation capabilities so that they can switch from one model to the next."
Still, Macron is a man in a hurry, sending his prime minister to Germany last week to convince the Germans: "Please, believe me, I can do cyclically inappropriate and politically destabilizing structural reforms you are asking for."

That is absurd, but that's the way it is: Macron is forgoing his large parliamentary majority to govern by executive decrees in order to make it easier to fire people in an economy where the unemployment rate rose, on his watch, to 9.8 percent in July from 9.5 percent in April, with a quarter of the French youth without jobs and a meaningful future.

All these entreaties to Berlin will come to naught. As in the past, Germany will take France's economic problems and its militant body politic as a negotiating ploy to impose its views. That was the case with Macron's immediate predecessors Nicolas Sarkozy and Francois Hollande.

The Germans are trying the same thing with Macron. Using their typical put-down zingers, German media called out Macron's "pompous grandstanding" on Europe's renewal during his excellent speech in Athens on September 5 from the hill of Pnyx, the birthplace of Western democracy, where ancient Greeks gathered to discuss public policies.

Macron is facing difficult options.

If he caves in to pressure from Berlin and Brussels and abandons his reform proposals, he will be mercilessly steamrolled by Germans, like his predecessors, and will expose himself as a weakling to ferocious attacks at home. Remember, in the first round of presidential elections last April, nearly half of French voters supported parties asking for more assertive French policies in defense of economic interests. They blamed the euro as an instrument of German austerity policies that led to rising poverty, soaring unemployment, deep recession and a sub-par economic recovery.

As the mass demonstrations are showing, these political forces have not disappeared; they are regrouping now and getting ready to pounce on what they see as a weak and disoriented government.

The second option for Macron, a man with deep sense of French history assailed by pressures from all sides, might be to get some guidance from the message Marshal Ferdinand Foch sent during the Battle of Marne in WWI: "My center is giving way, my right is retreating, situation excellent, I am attacking."

Macron's best bet could be to stand up and stick to his Eurozone reform proposals. Stand up indeed, because he got it right: An appropriate legislative and executive authority he is proposing is an absolute essential condition to frame sovereignty transfers for a common euro area fiscal policy. That would create a quasi-federal institutional environment to prevent policy domination by any single member country.

There is no need for French confrontation with Germany, although, true to form, Berlin seems to be pushing in that direction. Paris can easily demonstrate, and defend, that a rigorous institutional architecture must be put in place if key functions of a sovereign state are to be ceded and transferred to a supranational euro area entity.
From losing a parliamentary majority to missteps in handling the Grenfell Tower fire, British Prime Minister Theresa May has had a challenging first year. Ahead of a speech on Sept. 22 in Florence to address progress on Brexit negotiations, May now faces fresh dissent from within her own party after foreign minister Boris Johnson set out his own vision for Brexit in a 4,300-word article. While Johnson later tweeted that he was "[a]ll behind" May, others speculated that the former mayor of London remained interested in leading the Conservative Party.

Meanwhile, Germany heads to the polls on Sept. 24 for parliamentary elections. In the lead-up to voting day, Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union party is holding firmly onto its roughly 15 percent lead over the Social Democratic party, according to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

Elsewhere, market watchers will look to Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen for clues on future monetary policy when the Fed meets for a two-day meeting this week.

Also in the week, U.S. President Donald Trump will address the United Nations on Tuesday. He is expected to speak about tensions on the Korean Peninsula after plenty of sabre-rattling about taking North Korea to task for its weapons program.
In the next phase of artificial intelligence development, the firm behind Sophia the robot  who once said she wanted to destroy humans  is integrating blockchain into its work.

Hanson Robotics' new project is a marketplace in the cloud where AI developers can put up their work, which can be tapped by others to enhance existing robots or build new ones, the company's chief scientist, Ben Goertzel, told CNBC on Monday.

"At Hanson Robotics, we've made a cloud-based infrastructure for robot intelligence, but now we're looking to take that to the next level and we've launched a new project called SingularityNET, which is AI and blockchain together," Goertzel said at the sidelines of Switch Singapore.

"It's a decentralized, open market for AIs in the cloud so anyone who develops an AI can put it into the SingularityNET, wrap it in our cryptocurrency-based smart contract and then the AI they put there can help to serve the intelligence of robots like Sophia or any other robots or any software programs that need AI," he added.

Many proposed applications on blockchain technology  the same tech that underpins bitcoin  use cryptocurrencies or other digitized tokens for users to pay for functions. A "smart contract" is an agreement that is linked into the code of a platform, so it automatically executes when the terms have been met, virtually eliminating counterparty risks and the need for middlemen.
North Korea's growing armed belligerence is a strategic opportunity for American multinational Honeywell .

"We fully expect it [North Korea] will help the defense side of our business because Japan, South Korea and others are going want to protect themselves and be a lot more careful because who knows where something like this can go," David Cote, executive chairman at Honeywell, said on the sidelines of the Singapore Summit.

For the second time in less than a month, Pyongyang on Friday fired a ballistic missile that flew over Japan in what was widely seen as payback for the U.N. Security Council's latest sanctions.

Cote, however, struck a cautious note on the prospect of increased sales.

"Anything that starts people focused on spending money on defense as opposed to spending money commercially and improving lives of people, it's just not a good dynamic."

Defense accounts for 8 percent of Honeywell's operations, so "it's not a huge number for us," he added.

Cote said he hoped for a peaceful resolution to the North Korea situation, adding that Beijing, Washington, Tokyo and Seoul need to work together to contain nuclear threats.
watch now

While officials in Seoul try to figure out how to deal with their erratic, missile-launching neighbor to the north, the key to the puzzle may be 5,000 miles away  in Jerusalem. Officials in South Korea's defense ministry are now debating how they'll spend their budget, on the assumption that the country's parliament will increase it by almost seven percent. But military officials around the world say that even if South Korea's defense forces get the money, it won't be enough to deal with the massive destructive force awaiting them just across the border in North Korea. "The South Koreans have already established the requirement for low- and medium-tier interceptors," said Tom Karako, director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. He added, however, that "They have yet to move forward."

watch now

This month Israel staged a massive military exercise designed to simulate war with terror group Hezbollah and its allies in Lebanon and Syria, and perhaps as far away as Iran. Israel fought Hezbollah for five weeks in 2006 in a war that shut down Israel's economy in the northern part of the country, and caused wide-scale damage to Southern Lebanon. Part of the drill incorporates missile defense, as any new war with Hezbollah would likely bring an onslaught of rockets from the north, as it did 11 years ago. Hezbollah is estimated to have more than 100 thousand short-, mid- and long-range missiles stored in hiding places including the homes of civilians in southern Lebanon.

Three rings of defense

As Hezbollah's missile arsenal has grown, so have Israel's anti-missile capabilities. Israel now has three rings of missile defense. The Boeing made Arrow is designed to protect against long-range ballistic missiles, the kind possessed by Iran.



The recently deployed David's Sling (also known as Magic Wand), co-manufactured by Raytheon Rafael is designed to stop mid-range missiles fired from Lebanon and Syria, aimed toward Israel's population centers in the middle of the country.



The "Iron Dome" is Israel's answer to shorter range missiles, the kind fired by Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza. The system now has greater than a 97 percent effective rate against short-range missiles. Karako suggested a number of steps South Korea could take that have brought Israel success. Among them is "cooperation and co-development with the United States is crucial. The U.S. and Israel have been doing this for a long time, and the fruits of that cooperation are what you see on the ground, robust missile defense."

Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) Hwasong-14 is pictured during its second test-fire in this undated picture provided by KCNA in Pyongyang on July 29, 2017. KCNA | Reuters

Karako also credits Israel with applying the concept of traditional defense rings to the larger arena of missile defense. When security forces guard a shopping mall, they deploy internal security, external security and checkpoints further out. That same theory applies to Israel's missile defense, according to Karako. "Layered defense is something that allows the Israelis to have increased shots at an incoming threat. It also allows them to use more cost-effective interceptors for threats from different ranges." Iron Dome costs about $25,000 per projectile, while the Arrow missile can cost 100 times more.

South Korea is a lot bigger than Israel
Snapchat co-founders Bobby Murphy and Evan Spiegel at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), March 2, 2017 in New York City.

Snap has been asked by the Saudi Arabia government to remove the Al Jazeera Discover Publisher Channel in that country because it violated local laws, the social media company said on Sunday.

"We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate," a Snapchat spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters late Sunday.

Al Jazeera is a state funded media company from Qatar. Saudi Arabia led a group of other nations in the region to cut ties with Doha earlier this year, and one of the specific complaints about Qatar from those countries has been its use of Al Jazeera.

The decision to remove the channel was reported earlier on Sunday in the Wall Street Journal.

The conflict is the latest example of a technology company being pinned in the crosshairs of geopolitics as it navigates censorship of content on its platforms, the Wall Street Journal

reported.

CNBC contributed to this report.

Disclosure: CNBC parent NBCUniversal is an investor in Snap.
New augmented reality software from Apple and Google will be "huge" in taking the technology to the mainstream, a prominent tech evangelist told CNBC on Monday.

"I think it's huge because it lets developers start to learn how to build this kind of software," Robert Scoble, a partner at Transformation Group, told CNBC on the sidelines of the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology.

Apple's ARKit technology is one of the features on the company's iOS 11 that will be released on Sept. 19. The new platform will take "apps beyond the screen" by letting users of the software create AR experiences for iPhones and iPads, according to the company. Google's ARCore is a similar software development platform for Android phones.

The reason why those platforms are needed, Scoble explained, is if smartglasses eventually become lighter and more widely adopted, there needs to be enough interesting software.

"We need developers to learn how to build that kind of software using sensor fusion, using the new 3D sensor, using the new kinds of ways to see the world ... We need them to build a lot of software so when the glasses world does arrive, there's lots of things to do," Scoble said.

The uses of augmented and virtual reality software aren't limited to just fun and games, either  Scoble pointed to computer-aided design as a segment that provided growth opportunities.

"People who are building cars or buildings are using Autodesk or AutoCAD ... and that's a huge market. That market is [worth,] I think, around $20 billion. If those people start needing augmented reality to see their models in new ways, that's going to be a huge change," he explained, pointing to how Shanghai Disneyland was designed using VR.
watch now

British Prime Minister Theresa May is poised to meet her Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, on Monday in order to discuss a long-running corporate dispute threatening thousands of jobs in the U.K. Boeing , a U.S. plane manufacturer, is currently locked in a legal battle against Canadian rival Bombardier and given the potential ramifications of the case include the loss of thousands of jobs, billions in illegal subsidies and potentially even a trade war, the dispute has forced international leaders into action. As well as discussing a possible future free trade deal in Ottawa on Monday, May and Trudeau are likely to unite over plans to exert pressure on Boeing in order to convince the U.S. aircraft maker to drop its dispute with Bombardier.

Significant financial penalties

Boeing, with the support of President Donald Trump, claims that Bombardier is using government subsidies to dump its C-series planes onto the aviation market. The U.S. firm argues Bombardier is only able to do so because of the support it receives from Canadian and British governments. Bombardier, which denies the allegations, faces the prospect of significant financial penalties if the U.S. trade authorities deem a punishment necessary. Further to this, while Bombardier is based in Canada, the firm also employs around 4,500 people in Northern Ireland and workers at the Belfast-based plant could be under threat from the ruling. The area surrounding Bombardier's plant in Belfast is of critical political importance to Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP)  who May relies upon for her marginal governing majority in Westminster.

Encouraging Boeing to drop the case 'our priority'
A federal judge on Monday sentenced a Southern California engineer to five years in prison for selling sensitive information about surveillance satellites to a person he believed was a Russian spy.

Gregory Allen Justice, 50, of Culver City worked on commercial and military satellites and could have received up to 35 years for the crime. His employer's name was never provided in the released government documents, but a Boeing spokesman confirmed Monday to CNBC it had a former employee by the name of Gregory Allen Justice.

"We won't be commenting on any of our practices related to this incident," the Boeing official said Monday.

Earlier this year, the Los Angeles Times reported that Justice worked for Boeing Satellite Systems in El Segundo, citing information provided last year by his father, William.

In announcing the five-year sentence, U.S. District Court Judge George H. Wu called the engineer's actions "extremely troubling" because he was willing to sell the information to someone he believed to be an agent of the Russian government.

In May, the engineer pleaded guilty to charges of economic espionage and violating the Arms Export Control Act for selling sensitive satellite information to an undercover FBI employee, whom Justice believed to be the Russian agent.
Don Humbertson, a 64 year old lung cancer surviver, is examined by Dr. Wade Harvey at the Clay-Battelle Community Health Center March 21, 2017 in Blacksville, West Virginia.

The Congressional Budget Office on Monday said it will not estimate how a new Obamacare bill will affect the number of uninsured Americans, insurance premiums and ultimately the federal deficit in coming years until after the Sept. 30 deadline for passing that legislation.

The announcement means that supporters of the Graham-Cassidy bill will not have to deal with dire CBO predictions about its effects, which have helped doom prior Obamacare replacement efforts.

The CBO said Monday it "is aiming to provide a preliminary assessment of the Graham-Cassidy bill by early next week."

"CBO will provide as much qualitative information as possible about the effects of the legislation," the agency said.

That will include a projection of whether Graham-Cassidy will reduce the federal budget deficit by at least the $119 billion projected by the CBO for a prior Obamacare repeal bill.

"However CBO will not be able to provide point estimates of the effects on the deficit, health insurance coverage, or premiums for at least several weeks."

The term "point estimates" refers to a specific dollar amount that CBO will eventually project that the deficit will decrease by as a result of the bill becoming law.

The announcement came hours after top Democratic congressional leaders formally asked the CBO to issue a full analysis of Graham-Cassidy.

"A comprehensive CBO analysis is essential before Republicans force a hasty, dangerous vote on what is an extreme and destructive repeal bill," a letter from those Democratic leaders said.

"Members of Congress and the American people need to know the full consequences of Graham-Cassidy before any vote."
Janet Yellen, chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve, left, speaks with Mario Draghi, president of the European Central Bank during the Jackson Hole economic symposium on Aug. 22, 2014.

Central banks may one day need to issue their own cryptocurrencies, the Bank for International Settlements said in its latest quarterly review.

"Whether or not a central bank should provide a digital alternative to cash is most pressing in countries, such as Sweden, where cash usage is rapidly declining," the Sunday report said. "But all central banks may eventually have to decide whether issuing retail or wholesale [central bank cryptocurrencies] makes sense in their own context."

The report's argument in favor of digital currencies comes from two needs: anonymity for consumers and efficiency for institutions.

Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin don't need a third party to validate transactions, which are essentially instantaneous and irrevocable due to the currencies' blockchain technology.

Forms of money from the past, present and possible future

Source: Bank for International Settlements

The report comes as regulators remain divided on whether to officially recognize digital currencies like bitcoin as currencies or commodities, and if the institutions consider such a designation valid at all.

The central banks of Russia, Singapore and some other countries have announced experiments with digital currencies, while some researchers have proposed central bank tokens such as Fedcoin, the report noted. The bank was also quick to point out that the Federal Reserve has not endorsed Fedcoin and no central bank has officially launched a retail or wholesale-use digital currency.

However, bitcoin's exponential surge from a few cents seven years ago to around $4,000 has caught the attention of Wall Street and now, the Bank for International Settlements' 14-page report chose to look at digital coins through four properties of money: issuer, form, accessibility and transfer mechanism.

The report then defined a central bank cryptocurrency as "an electronic form of central bank money that can be exchanged in a decentralised manner known as peer-to-peer, meaning that transactions occur directly between the payer and the payee without the need for a central intermediary."

Bitcoin jumped 10 percent Monday to above $4,000, its highest since Wednesday and up more than 300 percent for the year, according to CoinDesk. The digital currency hit a record high of $5,013.91 on Sept. 2 before plunging 41 percent to the lows of the month after Chinese authorities announced a ban on new token sales and major Chinese bitcoin exchanges said they would close by the end of September.

In late July, Bank of America Merrill Lynch commodity and derivatives strategist Francisco Blanch said in a sweeping report that bitcoin still faces many challenges in becoming a globally accepted currency. The "crucial hurdle" is whether major financial institutions will accept the digital currency as collateral, Blanch said then.

To be sure, extreme caution is warranted for central banks wading into cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin and ethereum, the most prominent digital currencies, have been very volatile and sometimes hit by major hacks.

"Some of the risks are currently hard to assess," the report said. "For instance, at present very little can be said about the cyber-resilience of [central bank cryptocurrencies], something not touched upon in this short feature."
A major bitcoin conference has suddenly jumped from China's capital to Hong Kong  which has greater freedoms than Beijing  in the face of a Chinese government crackdown on cryptocurrencies.

The Blockchain Global Summit hosted by BitKan, a company specializing in bitcoin trading and services, was set for Sept. 10 in Beijing, but it was postponed just a few days before it was set to kick off. The conference was then quickly rescheduled to begin Sept. 20 in Hong Kong.

Chinese authorities, including its central bank, early this month banned the new issuance of digital tokens to raise money for a project or company. China has displayed much greater mistrust of cryptocurrencies  computer-generated assets that aren't tied to government authority  than other countries.

BitKan responded to that ruling on "initial coin offerings" (ICOs) in explaining its decision to move the conference.

"As the summit host, the event team in BitKan carefully balanced the pros and cons of the risks of Beijing's city security updates and the ICO supervision from the central bank. Though we have reported to the local enforcement and there will be no ICO related contents on the summit, we decided to change the time and location of the summit to lower the risks of being cancelled," a notice on BitKan's website said.

The company added that "most" of the people scheduled to give lectures and speeches at the event would be able to attend the new Hong Kong version.

Big names scheduled to attend include Jihan Wu, CEO of bitcoin mining giant Bitmain; Roger Ver, a prominent cryptocurrency evangelist and CEO of bitcoin.com, and technologist John McAfee.

The summit location isn't the only change BitKan has made recently. The Chinese company was blamed for a recent dip in bitcoin's price after it announced it would halt some bitcoin trading services.

Chinese regulators have been ramping up their crackdown on cryptocurrency businesses. Domestic financial media outlet Yicai Global reported that China plans to shutter all bitcoin exchanges by month's end.

That report came nearly two weeks after Chinese regulators banned fund-raising through initial coin offerings. BTC China, another one of the biggest exchanges in the country, has said it will stop all trading by Sept. 30.

Beijing has steadily increased its influence in Hong Kong in recent years, but doesn't yet control it to the extent that it rules the mainland.

 CNBC's Fred Imbert contributed to this report.
A new federal rule that took effect Sept. 18 makes it easier for customers to band together and sue financial firms.

Consumers, however, may never get to use it.

That's because a congressional resolution to kill the measure is awaiting action in the Senate. And despite the recent uproar over the inclusion of a mandatory arbitration clause by credit-reporting company Equifax in its free credit-monitoring service agreement  which the company subsequently removed  there's no indication the legislative block won't happen.

"I don't think the Equifax brouhaha is going to move the needle on whether the resolution is going to pass or not," said Alan Kaplinsky, a partner with national law firm Ballard Spahr. "It still could go either way."

The rule, approved by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in July, generally prevents financial firms like credit-card companies and banks from including clauses in agreements that require customers to settle complaints through arbitration, thereby waiving their right to join a class-action lawsuit. While it takes effect today, only new agreements after March 18, 2018, would reflect the change.
There are still a couple of areas where Equifax is charging consumers, Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen told CNBC on Monday.

The credit reporting agency revealed in early September it suffered a massive data breach that could potentially affect 143 million consumers. The company said the breach was discovered July 29.

"Consumers whose personal information has been compromised shouldn't be paying for the mitigation of that loss," Jepsen said in an interview with "Closing Bell."

While free credit monitoring is available to consumers, Equifax has not disabled its link to a fee-based credit monitoring service, he said.

"If you go to the wrong box, you don't get the free credit monitoring. You pay $17.95 a month."

Jepsen, along with 33 other state attorney generals, is asking Equifax to disable the fee-based link. His office is also part of the bipartisan states' investigation probing the breach.

Earlier on Monday, the District of Columbia's attorney general, Karl Racine, told CNBC Equifax has been responsive.

Jepsen also said Equifax should cover the cost of a credit freeze at other credit monitoring services. The firm has waived the fee for its site until Nov. 21.

"That's not right. It's just wrong that consumers protecting themselves due to Equifax's negligence should be on the hook for those kinds of fees that can mount up," he said.

However, he wouldn't comment on what fines might be sought against the company until it is known exactly what occurred.

"The first step is protecting consumers and doing everything possible to mitigate the risk for consumers to have their compromised information actually being used," he said.

An Equifax spokesperson told CNBC earlier in the day, "We cannot comment on pending litigation, but want to reassure consumers that we are remaining focused on helping them to navigate this situation and providing the best customer support possible."

 CNBC's Sarah O'Brien and Berkeley Lovelace contributed to this report.
European Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs Pierre Moscovici speaks at the EU Commission headquarters in Brussels May 5, 2015.

American internet giants "should pay their fair share of tax" -- and likely will under a new EU system, according to Pierre Moscovici, EU Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, Taxation and Customs.

"We must tax those companies as we do the so-called classical economy," Moscovici told CNBC's "Squawk on the Street" Monday.

The Commission will rework taxes for internet companies like Google , Facebook and Airbnb, in light of loopholes that allow the companies to pay significantly lower taxes by filing in countries with lighter tax requirements.

"There are situations that people in Europe cannot accept," Moscovici said.

Internet companies might not have a physical presence in Europe but still make huge profits in from the continent, warranting heftier taxes, he said.

The change, he said, is necessary to keep up with a modern economy.

"Our tax system was conceived, I don't know, for the beginning of the 20th century," Moscovici said. "We are in the 21st century with an economy that is much more dematerialized, internationalized, and we must have modern tools to address that."

The new tax system would establish a standard tax base -- revenue, profit, or digital presence, for example -- and likely take effect with 2018 legislation, Moscovici said.

But some are skeptical of drastic change.

Michael Pachter of Wedbush Securities said France's proposed system of revenue-based tax is "unfair."

"I'd say a very low probability this happens," Pachter told CNBC's "Squawk Alley" Monday.

Robert McDowell, former FCC comissioner, said higher taxes on internet giants could raise costs for budding companies and consumers, alike.

"What is now free on the internet might end up costing something," he said on "Squawk Alley."
Ageism is a growing issue in Silicon Valley. But are older millennials finding themselves too old for the tech jobs at the biggest companies?

An anonymous user recently asked on Quora: "I'm 35 years old. Am I too old to join Google, Facebook, Microsoft or Apple as a software engineer?" Quora is a website that allows people to post questions and have users answer them.

A recent article in USA Today reported those over age 40 found themselves over the hill when looking for a tech job. A Financial Times article noted the story of a 62-year-old man, who despite years of experience with Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems and Cisco was losing jobs to people "earlier in their career." A woman who was hired at Google at 52 described on Wired the issues older tech employees face with career development, lack of mentoring programs and socializing  although she noted she survived "karaoke, rock climbing and a folkloric overnight ski trip."

Several people who claimed to work at tech companies inclduing Google , Amazon and Microsoft answered the Quora inquiry. Though the overwhelming majority said there was no age limit to joining a tech company, they did point out some issues like company culture and ageism. However, having a strong resume and relevant experience generally outweighed everything, most commenters said.

"Google frequently hires people who are much older than that, in both junior and senior positions," said Google software engineer Rebecca Sealfon, who said she started at the company at 33. "The main reasons Google engineers skew slightly younger, on average, are that Google was much smaller 10 years ago; many of its hires are made at the entry level; and for more senior positions, many older engineers are too well-established in their companies to transfer."

Another Google employee Andrew Shebanow  who said he started at the company at 46 and has been working there for seven years  said it is possible to get hired while older, but there are obstacles, including the interview process aimed toward young college graduates.

"Although ageism is rare, you may feel out of place at times since most of your coworkers will be much younger than you are," he wrote. "This comes up more often in social situations than in technical ones."

Frederic Jean, whose LinkedIn account lists him as a senior staff software engineer for Amazon Web Services, said he joined Amazon at 42.

"Yes, there is a lot of ageism in this industry," Jean said. "There are a lot of bad -isms in this industry. But there are many companies of all size that recognize how potent the combination of talent and experience can be. The good news is that companies that recognize it are also companies where grown ups tend to come to, which is a good thing."

A software engineer at Microsoft named Arya Afrashteh jokingly said older people will be a "social outcast" if they don't live on "chips, ramen, chocolate and protein drinks" and play "binary ping pong."

"Coding skillz begins to drop around 35," he wrote sarcastically.

"No you are not too old to work at those places at 35," Afrashteh, who is in his early 30s, added seriously. "You'll be fine at 35. You'll probably be fine all the way to 60 working at those companies. You can work anywhere at anytime at any age (though you may have to deal with a bit of ageism). Just stay healthy, learn stuff and find someone to settle down with. That's pretty much life."
A key member of Beijing's top advisory body issued a warning against President policies over the weekend.

Policies advocated by Trump won't benefit the world's largest economy, businessman Fu Chengyu said on the sidelines of the annual gathering of Asian business leaders known as the .

"When countries have closed their doors, they eventually will be harmed," he said in an apparent reference to Trump's "America First" ideology.

It's only when people are hurt that they rethink strategy, Fu  a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference  continued. "Eventually, I believe they will find out that globalization is the way to lead the global economy,"

His comments come after Trump recently of Oregon-based Lattice Semiconductor on national security grounds.

The bilateral relationship between Chinese President and the U.S. leader has been strained ever since the Republican entered office early this year, with pervasive. But Fu said he doesn't anticipate the latter scenario to materialize.
As U.K. Prime Minster Theresa May prepares to relaunch her Brexit strategy, global banking bosses meeting nearly 7,000 miles away from London are drawing their own road maps in the event she fails.

"We are all planning for the worst, but hoping for the better," John McFarlane, chairman of told CNBC at the Singapore Summit.

Deutsche Bank CEO John Cryan agreed from the same event: "The more clarity we have, the earlier the better. That goes without saying. But I think, just on a contingency planning basis, it's right to think the worst."

The C-suite is staying tight lipped on the exact number of jobs slated to leave London.

"The truth of the matter is: We don't know. But it's not a big number," McFarlane said, while estimating around a hundred jobs. "The EU is about 10 percent of our total bank and, therefore, if we were moving all of it, then we would have to move the balance sheet. However, if wholesale activities can remain in London, we don't have to move the balance sheet and therefore, we don't have to move too many people," he explained.

Asked whether it was realistic that half of Deutsche Bank's London headcount was slated to move to Frankfurt, as widely reported, Cryan replied, "No I don't think so.

"Those estimates are difficult to gauge because the scenarios can be different," he added. "We're in a happier position because our capital and our bank are already German. So we can designate the London branch to something but only as a booking center."
Customers are describing Chipotle Mexican Grill's new queso as "gritty" and "disappointing" across social media.

That kind of negative response could translate into weaker same-store sales for the quarter, according to research from Goldman Sachs.

Chipotle officially launched its queso nationwide last Tuesday after weeks of hype across social media. But following the nationwide release, customers were less than impressed and took to Twitter to vent.

"A very negative reaction to the queso launch suggests Chipotle Mexican Grill launched a product that is not meeting consumer expectations, and, as a result, missed a potentially significant opportunity to add queso as an incremental add-on," wrote Goldman Sachs analyst Karen Holthouse.

"The consumer reaction on Twitter suggests few customers will become repeat users, and it could also limit any initial traffic bump around trial," she added.

The analyst is keeping her neutral rating on Chipotle, which fell nearly 4 percent Monday after publication of the Goldman report.

Holthouse's 12-month price target for Chipotle is $360.

The research pinned its conclusions on the sharp drop in Twitter "buzz" following the launch. Twitter volumes declined 68 percent after the national rollout compared with levels immediately recorded after reports that the product was in test.

"Consumer reactions following actual trial of the product have been largely negative and mirrored sentiment expressed during the testing phase," wrote Holthouse. "Specific feedback provided during the test phase (e.g. "gritty", "bad", "disappointed") continue to show up during the rollout."

Shares of Chipotle are down 33 percent in the last three months after reports surfaced that customers were sickened by a norovirus at a location in Sterling, Virginia, earlier in the summer, rekindling worries about food quality that have long plagued the restaurant chain.

Chipotle has been experimenting with several new menu items to attract new and lapsed customers back into its stores. The company did not respond to CNBC's request for comment on the Goldman report.
A cybersecurity expert who has protected Google's systems for 15 years said Monday no one is safe from internet attacks and software powered by artificial intelligence can't help defend them.

Heather Adkins, director of information security and privacy and a founding member of Google's security team, also advised consumers not to put sensitive personal information in their online communications.

"I delete all the love letters from my husband," Adkins told several thousand people gathered for TechCrunch Disrupt 2017, a technology conference in San Francisco, after telling them "some stuff" like personal information shouldn't be put in emails.

Network attacks "can happen to anyone ... anywhere," Adkins said during an onstage interview in which she urged startups to assume they would get hacked eventually and to prepare a response plan.

Google has said that more than 1 billion people use its Gmail program.

Adkins' remarks came several days after the credit-monitoring firm Equifax revealed what may be the largest data breach to date.

Adkins explained that AI-powered security software is not particularly effective at stopping even 1970s-era attack methods, let alone more recent ones.

"The techniques haven't changed. We've known about these kinds of attacks for a long time," Adkins told the crowd, pointing to a 1972 research paper by James Anderson.

While AI is very good for launching cyberattacks, it's not necessarily any better than non-AI systems for defense  because it produces too many false positives.

"AI is good at spotting anomalous behavior, but it will also spot 99 other things that people need to go in and check" out, only to discover it wasn't an attack, says Adkins.

The problem in applying AI to security is that machine learning requires feedback "to learn what is good and bad ... but we're not sure what good and bad is," especially when malicious programs mask their true nature, she said.

When asked what advice she would give to businesses to keep their networks safe, Adkins advised "more talent ... less technology."

"Pay some junior engineers and have them do nothing but patch," she said.






Today marks the 70th birthday of the United States Air Force as a separate service, but its roots go much further to its days as part of the U.S. Army Air Corps.

Americans volunteered 102 years ago to join French forces fighting in World War I as members of the Escadrille de Lafayette. Even though the United States had yet to enter the war, these brave American volunteers tested the boundaries of manned flight and conducted experiments that would one day make air power a formidable part of warfare.

As aerial warfare pioneers, they provided intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support to ground armies and artillery. They soon demonstrated the functionality of military air power through interdiction bombing strike missions and air-to-air combat.

War is a crucible that accelerates innovative use of any new technology.

In World War II, aerial warfare concepts were tested again as massive formations of Allied and Axis aircraft engaged in air to air battles in the skies over North Africa, Europe and the Pacific Theater. The United States and its allies eventually attained aerial supremacy, winning control of the high ground of the sky.

Air superiority has been a U.S. doctrine ever since, with the result that no American ground troop has been killed by enemy aerial attack since 1953. America doesnt go to war without air power.

In 1946, a year before the U.S. Air Force became a separate service, a group of WWII veterans formed the Nebraska Air National Guard in Lincoln, the second-oldest Air National Guard unit in the nation.

These Nebraska airmen were dedicated to defending freedom and vowed to stay ready as citizen warriors. Though its mission has changed, that culture and deep ties to our militia roots remains.

The Founding Fathers probably never imagined todays Air Force, but they firmly believed in the idea of a militia made up of citizen soldiers, and now airmen, grounded that concept in our Constitution. The founders knew a militia of neighbors would stand with each other because they had shared interests.

Today, your National Guard is the connective tissue between the military and most communities in the U.S., just as the Founders intended. The nearly 5,000 soldiers and airmen of the Nebraska National Guard are your neighbors and friends who stand ready to answer our governors call when emergencies overwhelm local first responders.

Our nation has changed drastically in 241 years; the world has grown smaller and flatter. The ocean barriers that once protected our continent from foreign invasion now offer far less protection and time to respond to continental ballistic missile threats. Future hypersonic weapons will diminish that protection further.

Faster still, threats -- ranging from broad expensive annoyances to specifically targeted life threatening events -- now can arrive from anywhere at the speed of light in the form of cyberattack on our ever-expanding technology infrastructure. These threats shake the trust and confidence in our systems of government and business.

To meet those threats and support our nations policies globally, the Nebraska Air National Guard is answering our nations call every day.

We regularly provide deployed and home station base-combat mission support in the areas of security, communications, intelligence, logistics, civil engineering and air refueling. We also have an experienced corps of global ISR expert instructors at Offutt Air Force Base as well as any number of other specialties that are vital to our nations interests.

Our citizen airmen bring specialized experience and skills to our state and nation. Our culture of responsibility, leadership and integrity add value to the civilian workforce and community. To the families, neighbors and employers who support our members, we say thank you.

Now more than ever, your Nebraska Guard stands ready, whenever and wherever needed.
Former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore speaks with delegates before the High-Level Stakeholders Meeting on Climate Change at U.N. headquarters in New York, September 18, 2017.

UNITED NATIONS  The U.S. will still meet environmental goals from the Paris climate agreement with or without the help of the Trump administration, former Vice President Al Gore said Monday.

President Donald Trump earlier had indicated the U.S. would pull out of the accord, which seeks global cooperation on reducing limits in an effort to battle climate change.

However, administration officials in recent days have indicated that the White House instead will seek a deal with less stringent requirements but remain within the pact.

Either way, Gore said the global effort is on the right track. Gore spoke at the United Nations Private Sector Forum, a gathering of global business and government leaders aimed at discussing sustainable growth and investment.

The former vice president, whose recent movie, "An Inconvenient Sequel," follows the initial "An Inconvenient Truth," said he's hoping the administration "will lower its ambitions stated in Paris but remain in the Paris agreement."

"But whether that happens or not, U.S. states and cities and businesses and industries are moving forward," Gore said. "The projections now indicate that the United States will meet the commitments made at Paris whether it is affirmed by the federal government or not."

Gore made mention of U.S. dignitaries in attendance, including several administration officials.

He pointed out the ferocity of hurricanes Harvey and Irma, noting the rarity of storms with such intensity.

Still, Gore said he's optimistic about the progress being made on climate change action.

"We are seeing tremendous progress," he said.
The average MBA tuition costs between $55,000 and $68,000 a year, according to U.S. News. The average debt for new grads at some of the top business schools can range from $59,000 to over $120,000. But at University of the People, you can score a tuition-free MBA with little to no debt, says founder Shai Reshef.

"Higher education can be affordable, and accessible and high quality," he tells CNBC Make It.

In 2009, Reshef officially launched University of the People, the first tuition-free, accredited online university. Immediately after launching, Reshef says he was swarmed with top educators who wanted to partake in his business.

The concept is simple. The university is completely run by volunteers, from the professors all the way up to the provost, who volunteers from Columbia University, says Reshef. The school also boasts volunteer professors and advisers from notable colleges like Oxford, Harvard, Duke University and UC Berkeley. Currently, the university has more than 6,000 volunteer professors, Reshef says.

Meanwhile, the number of interested students has risen each year. When the online university first launched, the school had 500 students. In three years, the number of students jumped to 10,000 and Reshef believes that it will double by the end of this year.

The school first began offering tuition-free associate and bachelor's degrees in business administration and computer science. "We started with both of the most in-demand degrees that are most likely to help students find a job," says Reshef.

The university later introduced a health science track and then a graduate business degree in 2016. "The MBA is our fastest growing program," Reshef says. That's not surprising. According to U.S. News, a new MBA grad can earn up to $164,000.

Reshef says he founded University of the People because there are over a million people a year who are qualified for higher education but can't attend due to factors like cost.

In his 2014 TED Talk titled an "Ultra-low-cost college degree," he says that he wants to democratize higher education "from being a privilege for the few to a basic right, affordable and accessible for all." His speech has since amassed over 4 million views.
"The United States is one of 193 countries in the United Nations, and yet we pay 22 percent of the entire budget and more," Trump said. "The United States bears an unfair cost burden, but to be fair, if it could actually accomplish all of its stated goals, especially the goal of peace, this investment would easily be well worth it."

Many U.N. officials, including Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, agree that changes are long overdue. But compared with the rest of Trump's agenda, reforming the U.N. will make rewriting the U.S. tax code and overhauling Obamacare look easy.



To begin with, the U.N is not a single institution so much as it is a sprawling global network of dozens of humanitarian and development agencies. By design, the decision-making process is distributed among a wide range of countries and constituencies that may have little in common and opposing views and interests.
Former President Barack Obama recently called upon young people around the world to apply to join his inaugural Obama Foundation Summit.

He made the announcement through an email to the foundation's supporters, along with three other initiatives slated to take place this fall.

Tweet video

The summit, which will be held in Obama's hometown of Chicago, will host hundreds of invited civic leaders from around the world. There are a handful of spots open for people to apply through Obama.org.

The application period closes on Wednesday, September 27 at 7 p.m. EST.

The foundation states that whether you come from a rural town or big city, the "ideal candidate" is one who is active in their community, has created a positive impact there and "will bring a unique perspective to share with other attendees."

To apply, candidates need to answer a few application questions, which only take about 12 tweets worth of characters to respond to:

Why do you want to attend the Summit? (300 characters)

How are you involved in your own community and what inspired you to do so? (1,000 characters)

What would you say to young people around the world who want to make a difference in their own community? (500 characters)

Over the course of two days  October 31 and November 1 attendees will "exchange ideas, explore creative solutions to common problems, and experience civic art, technology, and music from around the world.

Just a day after the online application period opened, more than 7,000 people had already applied to attend the summit, CNBC Make It learned.

In his message, Obama writes that the focus of the foundation's latest initiatives is "on empowering and equipping civic innovators and young leaders with the skills and tools they need to create change in their communities."
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shot back at Boeing on Monday, saying his country will not purchase any of the aerospace giant's Super Hornet jets if it continues to pursue a lawsuit against aircraft builder Bombardier .

"We have obviously been looking at the Super Hornet aircraft from Boeing as a potential significant procurement of our new fighter jets," Trudeau said. "But we won't do business with a company that's busy trying to sue us and put our aerospace workers out of business."

@BoyerMichel WATCH: Justin Trudeau says Canada won't purchase jets from Boeing. #cdnpoli

Shares of Boeing hit a record high of $253.67, trading midday at its highest since 1948, according to FactSet.

Boeing's lawsuit claims that Bombardier sold Delta Airlines 75 of its new C-Series planes for $19.6 million apiece, claiming the aircraft maker receives Canadian government subsidies that give it an advantage internationally. Bombardier returned fire on June 20, with President Fred Cromer saying "most people in our industry view this as an attack on innovation."

Canada was in talks to purchase 18 Super Hornet fighter jets from Boeing. Those talks were on hold after the Chicago-based company filed its lawsuit.

"Boeing is not suing Canada," the company told CNBC in a statement. "This is a commercial dispute with Bombardier, which has sold its C Series airplane in the United States at absurdly low prices, in violation of U.S. and global trade laws."

Trudeau's comments come after meeting in Ottawa with British Prime Minister Theresa May, who joined the Canadian leader in saying she would work with him to oppose Boeing's move against Bombardier.

The Canadian aerospace company is the single largest manufacturing employer in Northern Ireland, with around 4,500 workers. May said she will speak to President Donald Trump at the United Nations this week, to impress "on him the significance of Bombardier to the United Kingdom."

"I am very happy to be working with Prime Minister May to explain to the American administration how Boeing's actions are harmful to workers here in Canada," Trudeau said.

The U.S. Department of Commerce is currently investigating Bombardier's new C-series passenger plane, with the International Trade Commission due to deliver a preliminary ruling on the dispute later this month.

 Reuters contributed to this report.
Want to learn English? What better role model than first lady Melania Trump, whose image has been used by a language school in Zagreb, Croatia, on advertising billboards in the city.

"Just imagine how far you can go with a little bit of English," the poster from the Americki Institut (American Institute) states, next to an image of Mrs Trump and against a backdrop of the American flag.

The Institut published a picture of the poster in a tweet Friday, with the caption: "We entered the billboard game."

TWEET

Ivis Buric, the Institute's communications manager, said Melania Trump, who is from Slovenia, was chosen as "the most recognized emigrant to the U.S. from this region," in an email to CNBC.

It is not meant to be a political statement, she added. "In no means is it some kind of political message. It's ambiguous, and we suppose a conversation-starter, but nothing more than that."

The Institute bought five billboards for the poster, but is only running two because of rain preventing their installation, and Buric added that the aim of the advert is to encourage emigrating Croatians to learn English.

"Tens of thousands (maybe hundreds) are leaving the country and moving to places like Ireland, Canada, Australia, and the U.S. primarily in search of a better paycheck. And for those who don't leave, Croatia's primary industry is tourism. So at the moment, the importance of learning English--and learning it well--has never been higher here in Croatia," Buric said.

"The campaign aims to promote the American Institute as a place to learn English, find out about educational opportunities in the U.S., and participate in American-oriented events."
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella could have gone down a very different career path.

Nadella has spent almost his entire career working up the ranks at Microsoft. But at one point, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos tried to get him to jump ship, according to a profile of Nadella in Fast Company.

"Early on, Jeff Bezos was trying to recruit him [to Amazon]," North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a former Microsoft manager, told the magazine. "It was my job to re-recruit him."

While Nadella was being groomed as Burgum's protege, then-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer had different plans, Fast Company reports. Ballmer reportedly wanted Nadella to run Microsoft search engine Bing.

"Steve was very clear," Nadella told Fast Company. "He just said, 'Look, this is the most important challenge I have. I don't think this is maybe even a smart decision for you, but I want you to do it. Think wisely, and choose. And by the way, if you fail, there's no parachute. It's not like I'm going to come and rescue you and put you back into your old job.'"

Though Bing may not have the same glamour as Amazon , Nadella took the challenge  and it's lucky for Microsoft that he did. While Nadella's appointment as CEO was met with some skepticism, shares of Microsoft were trading at all-time high levels on Monday, dating to its IPO in March 1986.

For more on Nadella's reboot of Microsoft, see the full profile at FastCompany. com
The U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain is seen after a collision, in Singapore waters August 21, 2017.

The U.S. Navy said Monday it removed two senior officers in the Seventh Fleet following the recent operational incidents that resulted in the deaths of 17 sailors.

The announcement comes a day before the Senate is scheduled to hold a hearing on Navy mishaps.

In a statement, the Navy said Rear Adm. Charles Williams and Capt. Jeffrey Bennett were relieved by Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander of the U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet.

"Both reliefs were due to a loss of confidence in their ability to command," the Navy statement said.

It follows four incidents since January in the western Pacific involving warships assigned to the Seventh Fleet, including the USS John S. McCain guided-missile destroyer colliding last month with an oil tanker near Singapore, resulting in the loss of 10 sailors. In June, the USS Fitzgerald, another destroyer, collided with a cargo vessel off Japan, an accident claiming seven sailors. Prior to that, there also were two nonfatal mishaps involving Navy vessels.

Williams was removed as commander of the Combined Task Force 70 (CTF 70), the Navy's largest battle force, which includes Carrier Strike Group 5 with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, cruisers and destroyers. He formally assumed the CTF 70 post last summer.

Bennett was relieved of his post as commander of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, responsible for the Navy's forward-deployed destroyer squadron and commanding the readiness of eight guided-missile destroyers as well as destroyers deployed to the Seventh Fleet area. He also oversaw tactical control of the USS John S. McCain.

The Navy said Rear Adm. Marc Dalton, commander of Task Force 76, has assumed duties as commander of CTF 70. It added that Capt. Jonathan Duffy, deputy commander, DESRON-15, assumed duties as commander.

Monday's developments are just the latest fallout from the Navy accidents. Last month, the Pentagon removed Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin as commander of the Seventh Fleet just days after the USS John S. McCain accident.

On Tuesday, the Senate Armed Services Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing looking at the recent Navy accidents at sea. Navy Secretary Richard Spencer is scheduled to testify along with Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson and John Pendleton, director of defense force structure and readiness issues at the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Pendleton testified before a House Armed Services Committee panel earlier this month looking at the deadly Navy collisions and issued a report. Among other things, the report said "crew size reductions contribute to sailor overwork and safety risks."

"I don't know what specifically caused the accidents," Pendleton testified at the House hearing Sept. 7. "But I do know the Navy is caught between unrelenting operational demand and a limited supply of ships. The Navy has been warning for some time that they've been keeping a pace that is unsustainable."
While Facebook said its policies in Vietnam have not changed, and it has a consistent process for governments to report illegal content, the Vietnamese government was specific. The social network, they have said, had agreed to help create a new communications channel with the government to prioritize Hanoi's requests and remove what the regime considered inaccurate posts about senior leaders.

Mr. Tuan's arrest came just weeks after Facebook offered a major olive branch to Vietnam's government. Facebook's head of global policy management, Monika Bickert, met with a top Vietnamese official in April and pledged to remove information from the social network that violated the country's laws.

One line read, ''One century has passed, we are still poor and hungry, do you ask why?''

They marched him to a police station and made their demand: Hand over your Facebook password. Mr. Tuan, a computer engineer, had recently written a poem on the social network called ''Mother's Lullaby,'' which criticized how the communist country was run.

Facebook founder and chief Mark Zuckerberg (C) speaks to German Chief of Staff Peter Altmaier (R) at the so-called 'Facebook Innovation Hub' in Berlin on February 25, 2016.

Populous, developing countries like Vietnam are where the company is looking to add its next billion customers -- and to bolster its ad business. Facebook's promise to Vietnam helped the social media giant placate a government that had called on local companies not to advertise on foreign sites like Facebook, and it remains a major marketing channel for businesses there.

The diplomatic game that unfolded in Vietnam has become increasingly common for Facebook. The internet is Balkanizing, and the world's largest tech companies have had to dispatch envoys to, in effect, contain the damage such divisions pose to their ambitions.

The internet has long had a reputation of being an anything-goes place that only a few nations have tried to tame -- China in particular. But in recent years, events as varied as the Arab Spring, elections in France and confusion in Indonesia over the religion of the country's president have awakened governments to how they have lost some control over online speech, commerce and politics on their home turf.

Even in the United States, tech giants are facing heightened scrutiny from the government. Facebook recently cooperated with investigators for Robert S. Mueller III, the special counsel investigating Russian interference in the American presidential election. In recent weeks, politicians on the left and the right have also spoken out about the excess power of America's largest tech companies.

As nations try to grab back power online, a clash is brewing between governments and companies. Some of the biggest companies in the world -- Google , Apple , Facebook, Amazon and Alibaba among them -- are finding they need to play by an entirely new set of rules on the once-anarchic internet.

And it's not just one new set of rules. According to a review by The New York Times, more than 50 countries have passed laws over the last five years to gain greater control over how their people use the web.

''Ultimately, it's a grand power struggle,'' said David Reed, an early pioneer of the internet and a former professor at the M.I.T. Media Lab. ''Governments started waking up as soon as a significant part of their powers of communication of any sort started being invaded by companies.''

Facebook encapsulates the reasons for the internet's fragmentation -- and increasingly, its consequences.

The company has become so far-reaching that more than two billion people -- about a quarter of the world's population -- now use Facebook each month. Internet users (excluding China) spend one in five minutes online within the Facebook universe, according to comScore, a research firm. And Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook's chief executive, wants that dominance to grow.

More from The New York Times:

In China, Facebook Tests the Waters With a Stealth App

Can Facebook Fix Its Own Worst Bug?

Facebook's Zuckerberg, Bucking Tide, Takes Public Stand Against Isolationism

But politicians have struck back. China, which blocked Facebook in 2009, has resisted Mr. Zuckerberg's efforts to get the social network back into the country. In Europe, officials have repudiated Facebook's attempts to gather data from its messaging apps and third-party websites.

The Silicon Valley giant's tussle with the fracturing internet is poised to escalate. Facebook has now reached almost everyone who already has some form of internet access, excluding China. Capturing those last users -- including in Asian nations like Vietnam and African countries like Kenya -- may involve more government roadblocks.

''We understand that and accept that our ideals are not everyone's,'' said Elliot Schrage, Facebook's vice president of communications and public policy. ''But when you look at the data and truly listen to the people around the world who rely on our service, it's clear that we do a much better job of bringing people together than polarizing them.''

Friending China

By mid-2016, a yearslong campaign by Facebook to get into China -- the world's biggest internet market -- appeared to be sputtering.

Mr. Zuckerberg had wined and dined Chinese politicians, publicly showed off his newly acquired Chinese-language skills -- a moment that set the internet abuzz -- and talked with a potential Chinese partner about pushing the social network into the market, according to a person familiar with the talks who declined to be named because the discussions were confidential.

At a White House dinner in 2015, Mr. Zuckerberg had even asked the Chinese president, Xi Jinping, whether Mr. Xi might offer a Chinese name for his soon-to-be-born first child -- usually a privilege reserved for older relatives, or sometimes a fortune teller. Mr. Xi declined, according to a person briefed on the matter.

But all those efforts flopped, foiling Facebook's attempts to crack one of the most isolated pockets of the internet.

China has blocked Facebook and Twitter since mid-2009, after an outbreak of ethnic rioting in the western part of the country. In recent years, similar barriers have gone up for Google services and other apps, like Line and Instagram.

Even if Facebook found a way to enter China now, it would not guarantee financial success. Today, the overwhelming majority of Chinese citizens use local online services like Qihoo 360 and Sina Weibo. No American-made apps rank among China's 50 most popular services, according to SAMPi, a market research firm.

Chinese tech officials said that although many in the government are open to the idea of Facebook releasing products in China, there is resistance among leaders in the standing committee of the country's Politburo, its top decision-making body.

In 2016, Facebook took tentative steps toward embracing China's censorship policies. That summer, Facebook developed a tool that could suppress posts in certain geographic areas, The Times reported last year. The idea was that it would help the company get into China by enabling Facebook or a local partner to censor content according to Beijing's demands. The tool was not deployed.

In another push last year, Mr. Zuckerberg spent time at a conference in Beijing that is a standard on the China government relations tour. Using his characteristic brand of diplomacy -- the Facebook status update -- he posted a photo of himself running in Tiananmen Square on a dangerously smoggy day. The photo drew derision on Twitter, and concerns from Chinese about Mr. Zuckerberg's health.

For all the courtship, things never quite worked out.

''There's an interest on both sides of the dance, so some kind of product can be introduced,'' said Kai-Fu Lee, the former head of Google in China who now runs a venture-capital firm in Beijing. ''But what Facebook wants is impossible, and what they can have may not be very meaningful.''

This spring, Facebook tried a different tactic: testing the waters in China without telling anyone. The company authorized the release of a photo-sharing app there that does not bear its name, and experimented by linking it to a Chinese social network called WeChat.

One factor driving Mr. Zuckerberg may be the brisk ad business that Facebook does from its Hong Kong offices, where the company helps Chinese companies -- and the government's own propaganda organs -- spread their messages. In fact, the scale of the Chinese government's use of Facebook to communicate abroad offers a notable sign of Beijing's understanding of Facebook's power to mold public opinion.

Chinese state media outlets have used ad buys to spread propaganda around key diplomatic events. Its stodgy state-run television station and the party mouthpiece newspaper each have far more Facebook ''likes'' than popular Western news brands like CNN and Fox News, a likely indication of big ad buys.

To attract more ad spending, Facebook set up one page to show China's state broadcaster, CCTV, how to promote on the platform, according to a person familiar with the matter. Dedicated to Mr. Xi's international trips, the page is still regularly updated by CCTV, and has 2.7 million likes. During the 2015 trip when Mr. Xi met Mr. Zuckerberg, CCTV used the channel to spread positive stories. One post was titled ''Xi's UN address wins warm applause.''

Fittingly, Mr. Zuckerberg's eagerness and China's reluctance can be tracked on Facebook.

During Mr. Xi's 2015 trip to America, Mr. Zuckerberg posted about how the visit offered him his first chance to speak a foreign language with a world leader. The post got more than a half million likes, including from Chinese state media (despite the national ban). But on Mr. Xi's propaganda page, Mr. Zuckerberg got only one mention -- in a list of the many tech executives who met the Chinese president.

Europe's privacy pushback

Last summer, emails winged back and forth between members of Facebook's global policy team. They were finalizing plans, more than two years in the making, for WhatsApp, the messaging app Facebook had bought in 2014, to start sharing data on its one billion users with its new parent company. The company planned to use the data to tailor ads on Facebook's other services and to stop spam on WhatsApp.

A big issue: how to win over wary regulators around the world.

Despite all that planning, Facebook was hit by a major backlash. A month after the new data-sharing deal started in August 2016, German privacy officials ordered WhatsApp to stop passing data on its 36 million local users to Facebook, claiming people did not have enough say over how it would be used. The British privacy watchdog soon followed.

By late October, all 28 of Europe's national data-protection authorities jointly called on Facebook to stop the practice. Facebook quietly mothballed its plans in Europe. It has continued to collect people's information elsewhere, including the United States.

''There's a growing awareness that people's data is controlled by large American actors,'' said Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, France's privacy regulator. ''These actors now know that times have changed.''

Facebook's retreat shows how Europe is effectively employing regulations -- including tough privacy rules -- to control how parts of the internet are run.
As a Nebraskan for more than 45 years, I have seen how various groups of immigrants have contributed to our state's economy, married and raised families and become upstanding members of our communities.

The estimated 3,000 "Dreamers" in Nebraska, brought here as children with their parents, have graduated from our high schools (and many from our colleges and universities), found employment, paid taxes and, for all intents and purposes, become full-fledged Nebraskans.

It is critical that we retain them and not allow them to be removed from our country  the only country they really have ever known.

I appeal to our two U.S. senators and three representatives in the House to make it possible for them to fully live the American dream, prosper and contribute to our society.

Peter S. Levitov, Lincoln
Decorated U.S. Army veteran Daniel Davis says he's "concerned" that the United States is not backing down from its threat of military action against North Korea.

"That has virtually no chance of success," Lt. Col. Davis told CNBC's "The Rundown," as world leaders head to the United Nations in New York this week to further discuss an international response to North Korea's aggressive nuclear weapons program.

Military options, he said, should "unequivocally" be taken off the table: "That time had passed."

Part of the problem, Davis said, is that "you cannot wipe out all of their ability to fire weapons of mass destruction" fast enough to prevent a counterattack from Pyongyang.

"All you can do is to make him [North Korean leader Kim Jong Un] believe with a military strike that we are coming after him, and now he has incentive to use these weapons," he said.
The District of Columbia's attorney general told CNBC on Monday that an immediate bipartisan effort is underway to understand how Equifax 's massive data breach happened, and the credit reporting company has been responsive.

"We all really don't have a handle of all that happened," Karl Racine said on "Squawk on the Street." "What appears to have happened is that Equifax appears to have received a software of security patch notice that essentially told it that it is very important to update its software."

Racine said it seems that notice happened sometime in March and it is unclear whether Equifax took action.

"It is important in these data breach cases that when companies are alerted to the need for additional security, that they have a process and protocol in place to do just that," he said.

Equifax revealed on Sept. 7 that a data hack could potentially affect 143 million consumers in the U.S. The company said it discovered the intrusion July 29. Nearly 40 states are looking into the Equifax hack.

More half the residents in D.C., including Racine, had their security breached, the attorney general said. He urged all Americans who could be affected to check their accounts on a regular basis. The district and a counsel for Equifax are expected to meet later Monday afternoon, he added.

"We certainly hope that Equifax is going to be transparent," Racine said.

Equifax CEO Richard Smith is expected to testify Oct. 3 before a House panel, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., has begun an investigation. Along with 11 other fellow Democratic senators, she also plans to introduce a bill to give consumers the ability to place a security freeze on their credit accounts for free.

In a statement to CNBC, an Equifax spokesperson said in part: "We cannot comment on pending litigation, but want to reassure consumers that we are remaining focused on helping them to navigate this situation and providing the best customer support possible."
Karl Kaufmann, an emergency room physician at Washington's Valley Medical Center, spends a lot of time at the end of a shift doing administrative work, like typing words and checking boxes into electronic medical records.

But recently, he's been testing out a virtual medical scribe called SayKara.

SayKara was developed by a group of former employees from companies like speech recognition giant Nuance and Amazon . The team is based in Seattle and is launching this week after several years quietly developing the technology and securing a $2.5 million seed round from local investment firm Madrona Venture Group.

"I use SayKara in two ways, both to recap a patient visit and to incorporate the pertinent details of a patient interaction into the medical record," said Kaufmann. Similarly to Amazon Alexa, SayKara starts working when a physician says a hot word, like "OK Kara" or taps on the app that runs on iOS devices, including iPhone and iPad.

Kaufmann was one of the first to try out SayKara, which aims to be an alternative to human scribes and existing dictation tools like Nuance's Dragon. The goal is to accurately transcribe audio to text, parse the information to make it structured, and insert it cleanly into an electronic health record.

Voice is rapidly becoming big business in health care, as medical systems look for new ways to help doctors focus on the patient interaction, rather than the computer. Studies have shown that doctors today spend about a quarter of their time on the patient visit, with nearly half on desk work and charting in the electronic health record.
Workplace messaging app Slack has raised $250 million in a funding round led by the Japanese tech giant SoftBank , putting its overall valuation at $5.1 billion.

SoftBank said Monday that its Vision Fund led a Series G funding round alongside Accel and other investors, topping up its existing $540 million in funding to $790 million.

"Slack is the operating system for today's fast moving businesses, enabling teams to work together effectively at a time when businesses need to be responsive to rapid change and disruption," Deep Nishar, senior managing partner at the SoftBank Vision Fund, said in a statement Monday.

"The Vision Fund is excited to invest in Slack and support its mission to help millions of people, teams and companies collaborate and communicate."

Capital raised by the investment will serve as an effective "war chest" of funds, SoftBank Vision Fund said in an emailed statement, enabling Slack to look to expanding further internationally.
The promise of Southeast Asia's tech start-ups recently lured Japanese billionaire Taizo Son to move from Tokyo to Singapore.

The 44-year-old serial entrepreneur is founder and CEO of Mistletoe, a venture capital firm that's also part accelerator and part incubator. The Tokyo-based company set up shop in Singapore this April as Son, the younger brother of SoftBank founder and Japan's richest man Masayoshi Son, looks to invest $100 million in Southeast Asia over the next five years.

Emerging companies in the area are promising "because there are no legacies or traditions to break," he said on the sidelines of SWITCH, the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology.

"Instead of catching up to developed countries, Southeast Asia can leapfrog them ... it's a very attractive region for me."

New businesses in that part of the world boast significant advantages compared to more advanced markets, Son explained, using the example of his home country.
In 1944, the G.I. Bill was signed into law by President Roosevelt, providing those who had served in WWII with an array of benefits, including tuition payments. Since then, the bill has helped millions of veterans afford to attend college  but many still struggle to transition to civilian life.

Fortunately, some of the best schools in the country have made a commitment to supporting veterans. U.S. News and World Report found that these highly ranked schools were all certified by the G.I. Bill, participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program (which provides additional funds for education beyond the G.I. Bill benefit) or charge in-state tuition to out-of-state veterans. Each enrolls at least 20 veterans and active service members. U.S. News then ranked these universities based on their 2018 best university rankings.

Read on to see the 10 best universities for veterans:
The United States is considering closing its embassy in Havana in response to an alleged sonic attack on U.S. personnel in Cuba, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday.

"We have it under evaluation," Tillerson said on CBS' "Face the Nation" program. "It's a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered."

Five Republican senators on Friday called for the Trump administration to retaliate against the Cuban government by expelling Cuban diplomats and possibly shuttering the U.S. embassy there over attacks that began in late 2016.

The State Department said in August that Americans linked to the U.S. embassy in Havana had experienced physical symptoms from "incidents" involving sound waves. Five Canadians were also affected.

Symptoms included nausea, dizziness and temporary loss of hearing or memory. Cuba, the United States and Canada have investigated the attacks, but the probe has not yielded any answers about how they were carried out or who was responsible for them.

Cuba has denied involvement. The U.S. State Department has not blamed Havana for the attacks but asked two Cuban diplomats to leave Washington in May.
Federal prosecutors are investigating stock sales by three Equifax executives in early August, just days after the company discovered a data breach affecting the personal information of up to 143 million people.

The criminal probe, looking at whether the executives had violated insider trading laws, was reported by Bloomberg News, citing people familiar with the investigation. Equifax didn't respond to a CNBC request for comment.

Equifax says on its website that it continues to work closely with the FBI in its probe.

Shares of the credit reporting company fell 0.2 percent Monday morning. They are down nearly 35 percent in September.

Equifax's chief financial officer, the president of its U.S. Information Solutions business and the president of its Workforce Solutions division sold $1.8 million of stock on Aug. 1 and 2. A company spokesperson said the three weren't aware at the time that a security issue had been discovered by the company. The discovery was on July 29 but not announced until Sept. 7.

On Friday, Equifax said its chief information officer and its chief security officer had "retired." But the company has been scrambling to respond to the growing public outcry over the breach and how its disclosure was handled. Sen. Elizabeth Warren said she would open an investigation, and her home state of Massachusetts has said it plans to sue the company.

Click here for the full Bloomberg News report.
President Donald Trump seemed to butter up the United Nations Monday with a mostly complimentary set of official remarks ahead of his more anticipated address to the General Assembly on the issue North Korea Tuesday.

And that's when President Trump needs to strip away the flowery talk and be his usual blunt self. The blunter he is, the better chance the world might avoid another war.

Right now, the U.N. and the world needs Donald Trump to be Donald Trump.

That's because it's past time for someone to tell the U.N. General Assembly to its face how its very structure has helped to increase aggression and war-like behavior in the world. When individual members of the Security Council like China and Russia can veto meaningful measures to curb aggression time after time, that aggression is encouraged. And naturally, China and Russia have done just that when it comes to North Korea as they did last week by forcing a watering down of the harshest and probably more effective sanctions against Pyongyang.

Someone has to tell the U.N. that it bears tremendous responsibility for the nightmare that's developing in North Korea and potentially for its neighbors. Donald Trump seems to be the only major world leader willing to say such a thing. President Obama chose to hit other targets, including Donald Trump, in his U.N. speeches. And President George W. Bush spent so many years trying to cultivate and maintain U.N. support for the war in Iraq, that he was hardly in a position to harangue the General Assembly.

President Trump needs to get a critical mass of countries to support the U.S. and Japan in using a boosted military presence to deter Kim Jong Un without firing a shot. He must also call for even harsher sanctions with no interference from China and Russia. And, it's important that he remind world leaders that the alternative is likely a terrible war.

Of course with President Trump, his blunt talk can sometimes be conflated with rude and even crude words. The General Assembly needs to hear an honest and brutal assessment of its inability to truly pressure Kim Jong Un from his homicidal nuclear ambitions. But no good will come of personal insults and trash talk.
President Donald Trump on Monday raved about France's Bastille Day parade and said he is considering having his own military procession in Washington on July 4.

"We're actually thinking about, Fourth of July, Pennsylvania Avenue, having a really great parade to show our military strength," the president said before a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron as part of a week of United Nations events.

In France, the July 14 national holiday commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, as part of the French Revolution.

Trump visited France earlier this year during Bastille Day, seeing a display of the country's military in Paris.

Trump tweet

Trump has long shown interest in displaying American military might.
President Donald Trump on Monday expressed optimism about the potential that a peace deal between Israel and Palestine could be reached during his presidency, an achievement which has eluded American presidents for four decades.

"I think there's a good chance it could happen," Trump said at the start of a bilateral meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, part of the United Nations General Assembly's opening week.

"Most people would say there is no chance whatsoever, but I actually think with the capability of Bibi and frankly the other side, I really think we have a chance," Trump said, referring to Netanyahu by his nickname, Bibi. "I think Israel would like to see it, and I think the Palestinians would like to see it."

Netanyahu echoed Trump's optimism, telling reporters that he and Trump would "discuss the way we can seize the opportunity for peace between Israel and the Palestinians and between Israel and the Arab world. I think these things go together and we look forward to talking about how we can advance both."
North Korea's nuclear threat looms large this week over the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations in New York, where diplomats are eager to hear President Donald Trump address the 193-member body for the first time.

North Korean diplomats will have a front-row seat in the General Assembly on Tuesday morning for Trump's speech, which will touch on the escalating crisis that has seen Washington and Pyongyang trade threats of military action.

Despite his skepticism about the value of international organizations and the United Nations in particular, Trump will seek support for tough measures against North Korea while pressing his "America First" message to the world body.

"This is not an issue between the United States and North Korea. This is an issue between the world and North Korea," Trump's national security adviser, H.R. McMaster, said Friday.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres  who, like Trump, took office in January  plans to meet separately with "concerned parties," including North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho, on the sidelines of the 72nd General Assembly.

"The solution can only be political. Military action could cause devastation on a scale that would take generations to overcome," Guterres warned on Wednesday.

A week ago, the 15-member Security Council unanimously adopted its ninth sanctions resolution since 2006 over North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, said U.N. sanctions had banned 90 percent of North Korea's publicly reported exports, saying Friday: "This is totally in their hands on how they respond."

Haley said Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union" that Washington had "pretty much exhausted" its options on North Korea at the Security Council.

Ahead of the assembly, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met Sunday in New York. No details of the meeting, which both governments confirmed, were immediately available.
MOUNT PLEASANT  The parking lot was chock full of fancy, vintage vehicles Sunday afternoon, but none captured the attention of the hundreds of people who came through like the shows signature attraction.

Mount Pleasant Police Officer Ben Mieloszyk called in a favor, and as a result, attendees were graced by the presence of the Snap-on Tools Toyota Camry funny car, the souped-up drag racing machine driven professionally by champion driver Cruz Pedregon. Members of Pedregons maintenance crew, who help him compete in the National Hot Rod Association, showed off the vehicles shiny chrome engine and even fired it up a few times to entertain the patrons.

Brian Swift, a veteran NHRA mechanic from Indianapolis who manages shocks for Pedregons team, was presenting the car to visitors Sunday. He said the team was in Milwaukee for a Snap-On event Saturday and decided to come down to the show when Mieloszyk asked.

They had employee appreciation day up there at the Milwaukee plant, Swift said. (Mieloszyk) is one of the Snap-on guys buddies and we said wed stop by here later and we did.

While Swift and his crewmates showed off the race car, members of the Case High School Criminal Justice Club collected donations and sold 50/50 raffle tickets. The proceeds from the sales benefited a scholarship program set up by the Mount Pleasant Police Department to help Case students who want to pursue a criminal justice degree in college.

Last year, we got so big that we gave away three $1,500 scholarships, Mielosyzk said.

The scholarship fund wasnt the only charitable cause supported Sunday. Attendees also were encouraged to bring toiletries and supplies as part of Cases effort to fill an entire semitrailer to send down to Houston to help those struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

We believe it takes a community to raise a student and a community to support others, Case Principal Jody Bloyer said. We decided to give our students an opportunity to do the same.

Mielosyzk said the event rewards the students for their hard work and also serves as a community showcase.

Its a great event, he said. Its a way that the police department can not only give back to the students but give back to the community around us and make new partnerships.
The U.S. military on Monday flew a pair of B-1B bombers and F-35 fighter jets in bombing drills with South Korea over the Korean peninsula, in a show of force against North Korea, South Korea's Defence Ministry said.



The bombers flew from Guam and the fighters flew from Japan, joined by six South Korean fighter jets in the drill, a South Korean defence ministry official said.
The yield on benchmark 10-year Treasury notes was higher at 2.227 percent at 3:14 p.m. ET, while the yield on the 30-year Treasury bond was also up slightly at 2.8 percent. Bond yields move inversely to prices.

U.S. government debt yields rose on Monday as investors looked ahead to a two-day meeting of the Federal Reserve this week.

Yields have risen ahead of the Fed's Tuesday meeting.

Investors are expecting an announcement on the central bank's latest decision on monetary policy. Though most do not expect a rate hike this month, the Fed is projected to announce the unwinding of its massive $4.5 trillion portfolio. Market expectations for a December Fed rate hike are now at 55.8 percent according to the CME Group's Fedwatch tool.

The first reduction is expected to be $10 billion a month, and the Fed will taper that back further after three months. Many strategists expect little to no market impact in the early stages of the program, which has been well broadcast by the Fed.

Still, this is a move into uncharted territory as the Fed takes steps to begin reversing the asset purchases it made in light of the financial crisis about a decade ago.

On the data front, builder confidence dropped to 64 on the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, from a downwardly revised August reading. Anything above 50 on the index is considered positive territory.

The labor shortage in the construction industry may be the reason behind a three-point drop in September on a monthly index of home- builder sentiment.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury is due to release Treasury International Capital (TIC) data for July 2017 at 2:00 p.m. in New York.

Geopolitics will also be front and center this week as the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations in New York begins.

International diplomats are eager to hear President Donald Trump address the 193-member body for the first time, especially following a bout of fierce rhetoric between the United States and North Korea, which has been testing its nuclear technology in recent weeks.
As Brexit negotiations between the UK and EU rumble on, the lack of certainty over freedom of movement and trade is good news for one niche group: interim managers.

In the UK, experienced senior executives on short-term contracts are in demand. Jo Sweetland, a managing director at Green Park, says her recruitment firm has seen a 30 per cent increase in requests for interim managers since the UK voted to leave the EU last June.

Companies want professionals with restructuring experience, as well as HR specialists with employment law expertise. "Brexit creates an opportunity," Ms Sweetland says.

Leila Hudson, director at Taylor Root, the legal recruiter, says interim and consulting lawyers are in high demand. "There has certainly been an increase in the use of the phrase 'due to uncertainty of the market we wish to hire this on an interim basis'", she says.

Interims can command high day rates and enjoy autonomy but their expertise falls out of favour as the market changes.

Buoyancy in the interim market can be a sign of corporate confidence, says Karen O'Reilly, stakeholder engagement manager at the Recruitment & Employment Confederation.

The UK labour market is in good health, according to the latest report from the Office for National Statistics, which showed the unemployment rate was at its lowest rate since 1975.

However, Ms O'Reilly thinks demand for interims could indicate business pessimism. "An uptick in interim hires could reflect employers bringing in experts to help with contingency planning or postponing permanent hires in C-suite roles for a while," she says.

Christine de Largy, managing director of Impact Executives, the interim management arm of recruitment firm Harvey Nash Group, has noticed changes in the UK over the past year in the kind of expertise required. "

Last year there was a spike in restructuring; this year, it's management of risk, regulations on data protection and cyber security," she says, underlining the significance of EU data protection rules (GDPR), which will be incorporated into UK law next year.

Clients are managing risk by looking for deep expertise that can be bought in quickly, with interim executives who have solved the exact same problem ideally in multiple occasions, Ms de Largy says.

"They don't want to do it internally with people who are learning their expertise. They would rather bring in a deep expert in that field so they can minimise the risk"

For the worker, such flexibility is both a boon and a risk, while for some it smacks of instability. For others it is liberating. Richard Philips, who has been an interim manager for seven years, has found it to be positive.

To be a good interim manager, he says, you need to be like a "chameleon, you have to adapt. I like the intellectual challenge."

On the downside, they "fire you because you have done a good job, they fire you if it's done badly".

As an outsider he thinks he has a different role to permanent employees. "Some of the staff might be more cautious about speaking out. You can say how it is." Interims without the baggage of company history can have difficult conversations, he says.

Internal hires can be reluctant to drive change, so are keen that the responsibility for restructuring, for example, is shifted elsewhere.

While executives looking for permanent jobs can face age discrimination, being in one's 50s can be an advantage for an interim manager. It can be an "asset to have grey hair", as one puts it.

Nonetheless, Grant Speed, managing director of the Interim Practice at Odgers Berndtson, has observed a change in the typical interim manager.

"Fifteen to 20 years ago it was dominated by men in their late 50s. Today, there are more women [taking such positions] and the age has dropped slightly to late 40s, early 50s."

Explainer: why hire an interim manager? 1. Contracts for interim managers might be three months or longer, typically six to 12 months 2. The difference between an interim specialist and a contract worker, says Ms Sweetland, is that interims "leave a legacy at the end" whereas a contract worker might be called on to get through a set of tasks 3. The benefits for an employer are that candidates do not need to work lengthy notice periods and should be able to get up to speed quickly when they start their role. Craig Saxby, head of the interim management practice at EO, notes: "There can be a long period of time to get someone from another company. An interim manager can be up and running within a few days" 4. The appeal for candidates is that they can remove themselves to some extent from corporate politicking and be their own boss. It can also be a way to make an impact quickly

Jane Janney is a construction interim manager who has worked this way for the past 10 years. For her the value was flexible hours, and the first contract was a way to re-enter the workforce after taking a career break with her children. It was, she says, a way for the employer to try her out.

"It is risky, [particularly if] you have to pay a mortgage and can't get a new job," she says.

Ben Booth, interim chief information officer at Arup, the engineering group, says the dream of working for six months with a relaxed time off between contracts is not entirely true to reality.

"I have a break but tend to be looking for work in that period."

This way of working is not for everyone, however, he cautions.

"You have to be happy to go out looking for work and with uncertainty."

As with Ms Janney, this way of working suited him at a particular point in his life, when his daughter was older and the mortgage largely paid off.

Ms Janney would not recommend this path for someone seeking status. Yet, she has been lucky to have received professional development at the various workplaces she has been an interim manager and has kept in touch with ex-colleagues.

The variety of jobs and the challenge of tackling a problem has been a positive step for Mr Booth, who declares that he likes troubleshooting.

Moreover, the fact that he is brought in to do a prestigious project, means that he has support of the board. "I have the full backing and authority to do the work. Then I hand it over."

The purity of the work is important to Ms Janney too. "I go in and do the work, [and] don't want to get involved in office politics. That's a definite benefit."
The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form
RACINE  At Tuesdays mayoral forum, all six candidates came out against the citys event center and hotel plan.

Even in the wake of that news, city staff and aldermen are firm in their support of the project, which city staff is currently hard at work on, attempting to accomplish 10 goals set forward by the City Council in July. Many of the plans supporters on the council are regarding the candidates lack of support as campaign rhetoric rather than a firm commitment.

I dont care if they say that now; theyre campaigning, said 13th District Alderman Jim Morgenroth.

No support

None of the candidates were ever explicitly in favor of the event center.

Sixth District Alderman Sandy Weidner, after voting for Phase 1 of the project with extreme initial reservations, changed her vote the following week after hearing from constituents; she has been the plans most vocal opponent on the City Council since. Green Party leader Fabi Maldonado attended small no arena protests that took place this spring even before he was a candidate.

Pastor Melvin Hargrove, a former Racine Unified School Board president, said in June that the timing is not good for the project and reiterated his opposition Tuesday calling the plan flat wrong. Both community organizer Wally Rendon and small business owner Austin Rodriguez said they dont support the plan because of financial reasons after Tuesdays forum.

Masons opposition was more of a slow burn. In March, he followed John Dickerts resignation announcement with his own candidacy announcement and said he saw himself picking up the torch where Dickert left off, which many believed signaled his support for one of Dickerts signature projects.

In June, Mason was noncommittal about his support, saying he wanted to see the results of the initial Phase I studies before taking a side. But last Friday, he made his opposition to the plan clear when he said I just want to be clear, I do not support the arena on his campaign Facebook page.

Leadership undeterred

The lack of support from the candidates doesnt bother the plans leading supporters on the council, such as Morgenroth, 9th District Alderman Terry McCarthy and Mayor Dennis Wiser, who will return to his role as 10th District alderman once the new mayor takes office on Nov. 7. Its also not a problem for City Administrator Jim Palenick.

A few of them cited public misinformation as a possible reason behind the candidates opposition.

Theres still probably missing information or misunderstanding out there and that brings a level of concern, Palenick said.

Wiser, who will hold the second meeting of his advisory committee on the project Thursday, was concerned with what he heard when he attended Tuesdays forum.

Theres a lot of misinformation out there, Wiser said. I heard the price of the event center overstated by at least $5 million. I heard Memorial Hall is going unused. Thats simply not true.

McCarthy added that hes disappointed that the candidates have made up their minds with incomplete information.

The city leaders also dont believe in the strength of the candidates rhetoric.

It strikes me that this is pandering, rather than a complete position, McCarthy said.

Morgenroth believes that the eventual winner could be convinced to support the project. I believe that our team in economic development will win over the new mayor, he said.

And even in the event that the winner maintains a strong opposition to the plan, they would still need to convince a majority of the City Council to tell city staff to stop working on the 10 goals.

Regardless of what any candidate for office says, we have a clear direction from our Common Council on how to move forward, Palenick said. The process itself is insulated from individual people, candidates and ideas.

Wiser added that he doesnt think the mayor could sway the council to override the current directive.

The council is looking at the added jobs and added revenue for business owners and not just the political concerns, he said.

Council opposition emboldened

Fifteenth District Alderman Melissa Lemke was the only alderman to vote against Phase I of the event center plan initially, before she was joined by Weidner, 2nd District Alderman Mollie Jones, 5th District Alderman Steve Smetana and former 3rd District Alderman Michael Shields a week later.

Lemkes doubts about the project remain the same.

My main objection to it is that the people of the City of Racine dont support it, she said.

Thats also the feeling of Smetana, who said it doesnt make a difference whether the mayor supports it.

Theres some people in my district that are just not for it, he said. No matter how I feel, I have to do what my district wants me to.

Lemke believes that some of the candidates had their opinions on the plan informed by voters who told them they dont support it.

It adds a layer of complication now, Lemke added. Its not a positive thing to have people at odds on one of the first things that the mayor has to work on.
When you use PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Wallet or simply your credit card to make an online purchase, you the consumer, the ecommerce retailer and the banks behind the money exchange are using FinTech.

When Charles Schwab, TD Ameritrade or Fidelity Investments purchase stocks and the banks settle the securities transactions, that's FinTech.

[ Further reading: The top 3 disruptive FinTech technologies to watch in 2018 ]

And when you go online to find the best mortgage rates for that dream home or to refinance the one you're in, that's FinTech.

FinTech defined

Broadly speaking, FinTech (financial technology) is anywhere technology is applied in financial services or used to help companies manage the financial aspects of their business, including new software and applications, processes and business models.

Once considered more of a back-end, data center processing platform, FinTech has in recent years come to be known as the basis for end-to-end processing of transactions over the Internet via cloud services.

Thinkstock

FinTech is not new. It's been around in one form or another virtually as long as financial services has. After the global financial crisis of 2008, however, FinTech has evolved to disrupt and reshape commerce, payments, investment, asset management, insurance, clearance and settlement of securities and even money itself with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

"When you think about banks today, they're really technology companies if you look at where they spend their money," Eric Piscini, a principal in the technology and banking practices at Deloitte Consulting, said.

[ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ]

In just a few short years, the companies that provide FinTech have defined the direction, shape, and pace of change across almost every financial services subsector, according to Deloitte Consulting.

"Customers now expect seamless digital onboarding, rapid loan approvals, and free person-to-person payments  all innovations that FinTechs made popular. And while they may not dominate the industry today, FinTechs have succeeded as both standalone businesses and vital links in the financial services value chain," a recent industry report by Deloitte and the World Economic Forum (WEB) stated.

How FinTech can be disruptive

According to Deloitte and the WEB, disruptive forces that have reshaped the FinTech industry include, but are certainly not limited to:

The growth of online shopping, which is expanding quickly at the expense of in-person shopping, leading to the dominance of online, cashless solutions for transactions.

A shifting balance of power that swings from banks and other financial services to those who own the customer experience. Banks are eliminating in-person services and looking to FinTech and large technology companies for other ways to engage customers.

New trading platforms that are collecting data to create an aggregated market view and using analytics to uncover trends.

Insurance products, which are becoming more tailored to customers who, in turn, are demanding coverage for specific locations, uses and timeframes. That's driving insurers to collect and analyze additional data about their clients.

Artificial intelligence, which now plays a role in differentiating financial services products as it replaces complex human activities.

Transaction process improvement and middleware, both of which remain expensive. This is pushing traditional financial services firms to consider partnerships with marketplace lenders for FinTech solutions that dont require a full infrastructure overhaul.

Thinkstock

A new world of regulations

After the 2007-2009 financial crisis, regulators turned up the heat on the larger players in the financial services industry, enabling smaller and more agile firms and upstarts to gain traction. For example, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 created a number of new oversight agencies and represented the largest set of regulatory oversight changes in the financial services industry since the Great Depression.

In addition, companies that provided integration technology, services, data and analytics for banks saw a significant increase in the use of their hosted services, according to Jason Deleeuw, a vice president at Piper Jaffray covering financial and business services companies.

Thinkstock

After spending billions of dollars and thousands of hours to comply with that new regulatory landscape, the financial services marketplace turned its collective attention to rolling out new products and services. In some cases, banks became the technology developers. But in most cases, the financial services sector found it far simpler to outsource the technology for electronic payments or onboarding of customers rather than build it in-house, Deleeuw said.

For example, online mortgage servicing platforms saw a surge in adoption by banks for processing client accounts.

"They [the banks] are dealing with more regulatory issues around servicing mortgages, so it's becoming more costly to do this with an internal system," Deleeuw said. "I think it's helped drive banks more toward outsourced solutions because of the cost and reduced regulatory risk involved in trying to manage their own internal systems."

With increased interest in service-based systems, the technology grew more robust even as the costs of implementing it fell, enabling even further proliferation, Deleeuw added.

Apple What Apple pay P2P payment messages will look like on iOS 11.

The explosion of ecommerce has created a healthy ecosystem of start-up tech suppliers for the financial services, retail and other industries. While cautious, banks in particular are quick to adopt technology that can create new revenue streams or bring on efficiencies. So they sought help integrating new technologies, such as peer-to-peer payments, into their massive legacy infrastructure.

Over the past decade, the FinTech supplier ecosystem has grown from 10 or so key players to more than 10,000 companies, according to Piscini. That, in turn, has spawned a new service from Deloitte known as ecosystem relationship management, or ERM.

"The way you manage 10,000 suppliers is completely different from the way you managed 10 technology partners," Piscini said. "That's a big challenge for large organizations: how do you manage your 10,000-supplier ecosystem versus the 10 relationships you had before. For them, it's not as much about technology but what kind of innovation can I source and how do I do that in an ecosystem that's much more fragmented than it used to be?"

Banks as tech providers

Banks have also become technology providers, competing with the likes of PayPal or Square and sometimes collaborating on rolling out shared platforms to enable services.

For example, earlier this year Early Warning Services LLC.  a technology provider owned by Bank of America, BB&T, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo  unveiled its new Zelle person-to-person payments service. The service platform is expected to be supported by more than 30 banks this year and will let 86 million U.S. mobile banking customers send and receive payments as an alternative to cash and checks.

"So now the FinTech [firms], who were disrupting the banking industry are now being disrupted by the banking industry, which is an interesting spin of events," Piscini said. "It's a good example of the disruptors being disrupted."
Judy Terry is a marketing professional and a former local councillor in Suffolk.

Hardly a day passes without reports of young people being stabbed or shot as drug gangs battle for territory in our cities.

The proliferation of violent, armed youth, and young adult, gangs is a relatively recent phenomenon, but a worrying one. Sadly, as the big city drug markets are saturated, dealers are moving into the regions, adapting tactics to attract less attention in smaller urban areas, where most authorities have been surprised by the level of activity.

So, Preventing the Violent & Sexual Victimisation of Vulnerable Gang-involved and Gang-affected Children & Young People in Ipswich, by academics at the University of Suffolk, is essential reading for anyone with responsibility for safeguarding and crime reduction.

Commissioned by Suffolk County Council, in response to increasing concern amongst communities and agencies, it offers fresh insight into the rise of this criminal underworld, especially the hopelessness, beneath the bravado, of those youngsters who become embroiled in it.

Dr Paul Andell, senior lecturer in Criminology, together with Visiting Professor of Criminology, Professor John Pitts, noted that: it is important to acknowledge that the issues facing Ipswich are not an isolated occurrence, with estimates of up to 70 per cent of the country facing similar problems relating to gangs. Young people are particularly vulnerable to the harms generated from these illicit enterprises and a sensitive but robust response is required.

The problem has escalated over the last decade, with organised crime groups using violence, threats, and coercion to exert control over youngsters  usually known to care services  to distribute Class A drugs, whilst also storing weapons, and arming runners with knives.

Suffolk towns have gradually become victims of the trend, and in 2014 the Governments Ending Gangs & Youth Violence team conducted a peer review of strategies to control and prevent activities in the county. Crucially, it reported that various key organisations disagreed about whether problems actually resulted from gang culture. This meant the response was largely dysfunctional, with duplication of effort and silo working.

Consequently, whilst the Police had adopted a high level Gold plan, it lacked clarity and mechanisms to effectively identify, address and communicate a way of dealing with gang offending. The police subsequently became part of a pilot to provide a single source of intelligence in the Eastern Region, to address risks from exploitation, firearms, and levels of violence with a joined-up response.

Despite a crackdown on incursions from London, (as well as  to a lesser extent  Birmingham and Liverpool) leading to 2,500 arrests and convictions in Ipswich in the last couple of years, there is continuing pressure from criminals to expand the drugs market, so authorities have to adopt a more focused multi-agency operational approach.

The new reports recommendations include:

Clear acknowledgement of a problem;

Proactive leadership and Effective Strategic Governance;

Clear targets for intervention (and outcomes);

Community engagement, and

Resources.

A full action plan, developed with communities and other stakeholders, will be published by the end of the year and, although the focus is on Ipswich, the findings will inform how to deal with similar issues elsewhere in the county.

The three main headings will enable work to progress to the next level:

Reducing vulnerability: supporting families, children and young people to be resilient and not vulnerable to those wishing to exploit them;

Creating an environment which puts communities in control;

Enforcement.

Cllr Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Councils Cabinet Member for Education and Skills commented, we already know a lot about how to help vulnerable young people, and have systems in place. We must show them the dangers and help them understand that they are being exploited by adults to make profits  and challenge the culture which glamorises this way of life. He should also challenge the lack of aspiration amongst these youngsters, who inevitably perform poorly at, or skip, school without understanding the importance of education.

Meanwhile, Tim Passmore, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, acknowledges the report as a very serious call to arms, to work together across all agencies, communities, businesses and the voluntary sector to support our young people. No one agency can resolve these problems on their own, we need to pool resources and focus our attention to make a real impact. One of his biggest concerns must surely be the BBCs report that 46 youngsters recently apprehended were already known to social services in London.

Cllr Alasdair Ross, Ipswich Borough Councils portfolio holder for Public Protection also acknowledges the need for action, saying we are ready and willing to put in the extra resources required for us to do our part, with a short term plan to tackle gang violence and a longer term plan to tackle the scourge of illegal drugs.

In recent months, the local media has reported a number of incidents, including sexual assaults, which are affecting the wider communitys perception of their own safety, especially in the town centre as the evenings close in. Dog walkers, too, are cautious about using a specific park.

It is 11 years since Ipswich was in lockdown between October and December as five young women were murdered. For years, the authorities had known about the street prostitution which prompted the murders; it now appears that the same is true of the scale of drug trafficking.

Although the serial killer was caught quite quickly, it took a long time for the local economy to recover, leaving shops, restaurants, pubs, cinemas and theatres empty. So it is essential that action is not only taken to improve security now, but is seen to be taken.

Councils need to understand that, if people dont feel safe, businesses will not invest in the town. They could start with a Keep Safe information campaign, offering free personal alarms, and reviewing policies to turn off street lights at midnight. Inevitably, there will be demands for more officers on the streets, as happened in 2006, and in the wake of the recent terrorist attacks.
Nadhim Zahawi is a member of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, and is MP for Stratford On Avon.

The rarest of events happened last week. Jean Claude Juncker did us a favour. The President of the European Commission set out his vision of where the European Union will go, and it could not have been a better explanation of why the United Kingdom should leave.

Juncker detailed his view that more help should be given to countries to join the Euro as soon as possible, and that there should be a European finance minister. In addition, despite attempts by many countries to enhance intra-EU border security during the migrant crisis, and controversies around the free movement of terrorists, he also wants Schengen to be widened.

The President also demonstrated his trademark distaste for democracy and his desire to silence individual nations voices. He set out his plan for MEP elections, already a complicated mystery to many in the UK, to be elected from across Europe, rather than representing any particular region. Even worse, he wants to see just one President of the European Union because Europe would be easier to understand if one captain was steering the ship. This roughly translates to having someone able to overrule the wishes of the leaders and democracies of member states.

We should not pretend that this speech was met with universal acclaim. The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte said that, if Juncker was having visions, he should go to the doctor, and that he would not support the extension of Schengen to include Bulgaria and Romania.

However, we should also not be blind to history. The EU bureaucrats have often had lofty goals from the creation of Schengen itself to the creation of an entirely new currency. There has always been opposition, but it has never diverted the EU from its slow, steady and determined progress towards its goals. Junckers vision will not come to pass tomorrow, it may not come to pass for a few years, but this is the direction that the bloc is heading.

The most convincing argument to leave the European Union, and one of the key factors in my own decision that we were better off out, is that the status quo was not on the table. The EU does not pause from its goal of creating more institutions, controlling more decisions and widening membership. It may experience setbacks, but it always grinds forward.

And this destination of the EU is one that the UK could never accept. I was firmly of the belief that if the UK did not leave last year, then it would eventually find itself on the outside anyway. Our country would not acquiesce to being one part of a superstate. The only question is whether it is best to leave now or in a number of years time, after further integration and entanglement.

Our vote to leave is not about holding anything against our European friends, its just that they appear to be determined to go in a direction that isnt right for us. I hope that this attitude is reflected in Theresa Mays speech in Florence on Friday.

The Prime Minister should make it her goal to remove the acrimony from negotiations. We are not intent on undermining the European Union, we are not intent on encouraging others to leave, we are not intent on stopping European Union member states from doing whatever they want to do with regards to their own borders, their own economies and their own currency. We just dont agree with what they want. Its not right for the United Kingdom

Our country should pay the debts that we are legally obligated to pay. We should happily cover our payments we previously said we would make until the end of the current EU budget period. We should also be willing to consider paying for continued access to the single market, in order to contribute to the costs of supporting the bureaucracy required to ensure the harmonisation of regulation that is needed for such a market to exist. We should also be willing to contribute to the costs of organisations that we wish to remain part of or collaborate with after leaving, whether that is European space programmes, ERASMUS, Horizon 2020, Europol or the European Medicines Agency. In addition, we should make clear that we will stand squarely behind our European allies security with our military and intelligence assets.

Juncker has given the Prime Minister the perfect context to explain why we wish to politely leave. Theresa May now has to make clear that we plan to leave in an orderly way that will be beneficial for everyone, while committing to continuing our partnerships in the future.
Michael Goves friends have been quick out of the traps to deny a report in todays Times that the DEFRA Secretary has refused to support [Boris Johnsons] intervention on Brexit.

This raises the question of what Goves view of Government policy on Brexit is, and how much support the Foreign Secretarys stance has amongst the rest of the Cabinet, Conservative MPs and party members.

Our assessment is that the DEFRA Secretary wants to demonstrate that he backs the core case that Johnson made in his Daily Telegraph article  namely, that the Government is allowing any failure to reach a fully-fledged free trade deal to be framed as a disaster.

Gove shares the Foreign Secretarys view that Brexit can be a glorious success, to borrow Johnsons word, and it follows that he believes this can be so even if Britain ends up with a minimal WTO trade arrangement with the EU.

He wants also not so much an Open Brexit as a Liberal Brexit, and will sympathise with the Foreign Secretarys call for lower taxes, more infrastructure, investment in science, and less regulation (though not, please note, taking an axe to environmental regulation).

The DEFRA Secretary is also a natural liberal on immigration, about which Johnson had very little to say in his 4000-word magnum opus, and of which he has taken different views at different times.

However, there are two important divergences between the two men, the ups and downs of whose relationship make Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylors look like a model of domestic tranquility.

The first is over transition. The Foreign Secretary is reflexively hostile to any transition period, though he has reluctantly come round to accepting that there will be one. Gove is less fussed, and his focus is more on what happens at the end of transition than during it.

The second is over money. Johnson opposes paying up to 10 billion a year to the EU during transition. Again, the DEFRA Secretary is relatively relaxed about arrangements for this period  though he certainly opposes any Government promise now of money upfront.

This is especially important in the context of Theresa Mays coming speech in Florence on Friday. The Foreign Secretary and Gove are united in wanting to head her off from any such commitment.

ConservativeHomes view is that Britain could flourish under the minimalist WTO-type settlement that seems to be his bottom line. But it is not the optimal outcome, and threatens a significant downside.

We also accept that the logic of any fully-fledged trade deal is money-for-access. The sticking-point for us is less paying money to the EU than freeing Britain from the European Court of Justice. Party members seem to agree.

Our sense is that most Conservative MPs are nervous of a minimal WTO deal, and dont want Theresa Mays boat to be rocked now, for fear that it might capsize altogether  with an election and a Jeremy Corbyn-led government steaming next over the horizan.

For this reason, Johnsons position among Tory MPs is probably weaker than it was last Friday. Among Party members it is doubtless stronger  he hit his lowest-ever rating in our last future leader survey  though the Foreign Secretary divides opinions.

Johnsons motives are variously portrayed as belief in his view, frustration at exclusion from Brexit policy-making, leadership ambition, and a desire not to be blamed for what he sees as a negotiation trainwreck.

There is much in all of these takes. But we would stress a deep emotional commitment to the position that the Foreign Secretary took while spearheading the Vote Leave campaign during the EU referendum.

To some of those who worked on the most successful single-issue campaign in Britains modern political history, Vote Leave was what government should really be like: thats to say, a band of brothers and sisters united by and striving for a cause.

Hence Johnson and Goves continuing preoccupation with spending 350 million a week on the NHS. They see it as a pledge that must be honoured. One can scarcely blame former Cabinet Remainers and non-Vote Leave Brexiteers for thinking differently.

Of the six former Cabinet Ministers who launched Vote Leave together, three are no longer in government (Iain Duncan Smith, Theresa Villiers, John Whittingdale), and two are on the same Brexit page as the Foreign Secretary: Gove and Priti Patel.

The DEFRA Secretarys friends deny that he had any prior knowledge of Johnsons Telegraph article, but the science-and-tech parts, plus the general take on the Governments position, had Dominic Cummings smack about it.

Both Gove and the Foreign Secretary will undoubtedly be talking to the formers one-time special adviser, and the man who, more than any other single person, was responsible for Britains vote to quit the EU. The Vote Leave band is re-forming.

And he was alright, the band was all together/ Yes he was alright, the song went on forever. Dominic Cummings  boy in the bright blue jeans.
Royal Caribbean International announced on Friday that calls in Key West aboard the Empress of the Seas will be swapped with a day at sea through at least October 20, citing damage from Hurricane Irma.

In order to provide much needed supplies to the people of Key West, we are working closely with local authorities to schedule a humanitarian stop on our way to Havana, Cuba, the company said.

For guests that choose not to sail, Royal Caribbean is offering a 100 percent future cruise credit.

The company said that Key West officials hoped to have the area ready for tourism by October 20.
Women head up information security at a multitude of organizations globally. They are role models for young girls learning about cybersecurity for the first time and for high-schoolers contemplating an education and career in the field.

Roughly 11% of the cybersecurity workforce are women, compared to 25% in technology and 50% of professional occupations overall.

And according to the latest Cybersecurity Jobs Report, the worldwide deficit of qualified cybersecurity professionals will reach 3.5 million by 2021.

To encourage girls' interest in cybersecurity and hopefully reduce that deficit, Palo Alto Networks and Girl Scouts of the USA recently announced a collaboration with the introduction of 18 new cybersecurity badges for Girls Scouts of all ages.

The 1.8 million Girl Scouts in the U.S. may be the largest talent pool of future women in cyber.

As girls show interest in cybersecurity, parents and educators can point to women leaders in security to help them imagine themselves as cybersecurity professionals.

10 women security leaders to watch

Cybersecurity Ventures is on a research project compiling a list of women information security officers globally. These 10 women are on the list:

Meredith Harper, Chief Information Privacy & Security Officer, Henry Ford Health System

Meredith Harper leads the privacy and security program for Henry Ford Health System, a not-for-profit corporation composed of hospitals, medical centers and one of the nation's largest group practices, which includes more than 1,200 physicians practicing in over 40 specialties.

She's been with Henry Ford for more than 14 years and has served as a board member or volunteer for numerous medical and tech industry associations.

Chandra McMahon, SVP & CISO, Verizon

Chandra McMahon oversees information security for Verizon, one of the largest communication technology companies in the world with more than $126 billion in annual revenues, and 163,000-plus employees worldwide.

She spent 10 years in senior roles at Lockheed Martin, including nearly three years as their chief information security officer.

Ann Delenela, VP & CISO, Ameren

Ann Delenela is the new chief information security officer at Ameren. A Fortune 500 corporation employing more than 8,500 personnel, Ameren powers the quality of life for 2.4 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers across a 64,000-square-mile area.

She was previously the CSO at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the flow of electric power to 24 million Texas customers  representing about 90% of the states electric load.

Holly Ridgeway, EVP, CSO, Citizens Financial Group Inc.

Holly Ridgeway oversees security at 150-year-old Citizens Financial Group Inc., which became a fully independent publicly traded company in 2015, just over a year after the successful completion of the largest commercial bank initial public offering (IPO) in U.S. history.

She was previously CISO for PNC Bank and CISO for the U.S. Department of Justice.

Myrna Soto, SVP, Global CISO, Comcast

Myrna Soto is senior vice president global chief information security officer (GCISO) of Comcast Corporation, a global media and technology company with two primary businesses, Comcast Cable and NBCUniversal.

She's been with Comcast for more than eight years. Previously, Soto was a CISO for MGM Mirage.

Jenna McAuley, VP, Information Security and Information Technology Oversight & CISO, US Banks, American Express

Earlier this year, Jenna McAuley became chief information security officer for US Banks at American Express, the world's largest credit card issuer by purchase volume.

She was previously CISO for Mercer, the world's largest human resources consulting firm, and before that, she was a security specialist at two of the Big 4 firms  EY and Accenture.

Jill Knesek, VP Information Security & CISO, Mattel, Inc.

Jill Knesek is responsible for enterprise-wide information security at Mattel Inc., a global learning, development and play company with a global workforce of approximately 32,000 people operating in 40 countries and territories.

Shes been CSO and head of the Global Security Practice for BT Global Services  a leading global business communications provider with more than 17,000 people worldwide  and CSO for BT Americas.

Kim Keever, SVP & CISO, Cox Communications

Kim Keever oversees information security for Cox Communications, the largest private telecom company in the U.S., with $11 billion in annual revenue.

She was previously CISO at the Coca-Cola Refreshments and Bottling Investments Group of The Coca-Cola Company and director of security at Coca-Cola Enterprises. Before that, she was CIO at Invesco Retirement Plan Services.

Jana Monroe, Vice President Global Security and Enterprise Risk Management, Herbalife

Jana Monroe heads up security for Herbalife International, a global nutrition company with approximately 8,000 employees in 91 countries and revenues of approximately $7.8 billion.

She's held senior-level security positions with Southern California Electric Utility, KPMG and the FBI Cyber Division.

Marene Allison, Worldwide VP of Information Security, Johnson and Johnson

Marene Allison is in charge of information security globally at Johnson and Johnson, an American multinational medical devices, pharmaceutical and consumer packaged goods manufacturing company with over 125,000 employees in 60 countries.

Her prior positions include vice president of global security at Medco, director of security at Avaya, vice president of security and safety at Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company, and a special agent for the FBI. Allison was also a Military Academy Liaison Officer (MALO) for the U.S. Army from 1990 to 2010.

This small list barely scratches the surface of the top women in cyber  but it's enough to get parents, educators and young girls thinking cyber.
The polls are now open everywhere in America  from Maine to Hawaii. Check out a photo gallery of images from across the U.S.
People expect their email to be private between them and the recipient, but in reality, the contents of your email are exposed during transmission. Full end-to-end encryption would mean that only the receiver of the email can decrypt their messages, but sharing public keys and agreeing on a common encryption standard can be tricky for most users. Plus, if email communications are fully encrypted along the entire path, then there's no opportunity for a service in the middle, such as Gmail or Office 365, to check for spam, automatically sort emails into folders, or offer full-text searches.

IDG Click here to see the full infographic

Unless the platform is integrated with a company's email gateway, firewall, and data loss prevention system, end-to-end email encryption may also prevent enterprises from monitoring for suspicious traffic. "Right now, a large number of companies just don't have a solution dealing with encrypted email," says Tom Fuhrman, cyber security practice leader at Marsh Risk Consulting.

As a result, most enterprise uses of encrypted email today are either within an enterprise or for special purposes such as trips to China or Eastern Europe. When a message from an encrypted enterprise email platform is sent to external users, the recipient typically gets a link to a secure online service where they can read the message.

Usability issues are just part of the battle. Competing services have carved out particularly high-value niches that may have been served by end-to-end encrypted email, instead.

The downloadable infographic at the end of this article illustrates how an email message might be encrypted end-to-end. It also shows three other common encryption scenarios.

Non-email alternatives

One potentially useful purpose for end-to-end encrypted email is for doctors, banks, and lawyers to send sensitive documents to their customers. Sending these files through ordinary email is a security risk, but also a compliance violation in many regulated industries. Often, getting those users to sign up for an encrypted email service is a non-starter.

Instead, institutions typically used third-party file sharing solutions. One of the most popular services for documents that need signatures is DocuSign. The company claims more than 300,000 business customers, and over 200 million users in 188 countries. Recipients get an email with a link to the DocuSign website, where they authenticate themselves, and can then easily read and sign documents. DocuSign meets the legal requirements of the U.S. Esign Act, as well as similar laws in other countries, and the company claims that it's signatures have never been successfully repudiated or challenged in any court anywhere in the world.

When documents don't need legally binding signatures, there are many online document-sharing sites like Box that offer enterprise-grade security and authentication. As with DocuSign, recipients get a regular email that contains a link to the shared document or folder.

If the communications don't involve documents but simply require short, secure messages, a new crop of mobile-first messaging platforms like Whatsapp and Signal are built with end-to-end encryption right from the start.

[Related: Email, email, in the cloud]

For companies that are concerned about hackers listening in to messages in transit, most of the major email providers currently support SSL or TLS to ensure that the communications are encrypted while in transit. In addition, major services like Gmail and Office 365 also offer encryption for data at rest.

"When the actual transmission was clear text, it [end-to-end email encryption] made perfect sense," says aid Morey Haber, VP of technology BeyondTrust, Inc. "Now that most transmission is encrypted, you've eliminated a whole use case for [end-to-end] encryption."

For business users traveling abroad, or logging in from public wifi hotspots, secure VPNs are standard tools used to protect their communications.

Finally, users who just need to send a single encrypted file to someone can simply encrypt it on their desktop. On Windows, for example, they can just open the file's Properties and turn on encryption. Then they can send the file as an attachment to their friend, and tell them the password by phone or text message.

The encrypted email systems companies use

Some companies still use end-to-end email encryption for communicating sensitive information to customers or for internal communications. They either use encryption add-ons for their existing enterprise email platforms, or use new cloud-based services. Typically, the end-to-end encryption is used just for a subset of messages, often in combination with data loss prevention tools, or for particularly sensitive projects.

"I expect if you did a lot of communication with China or Eastern Europe, you'll be using ProtonMail a lot," says Rob Enderle, principal analyst at Enderle Group. "In any kind of environment were the government looks at communications, something like ProtonMail or an end-to-end scheme is going to be safer because the government can't get them to give up the keys."

In particular, it makes sense to go with a provider that doesn't have a big presence in that country, he says, because if it does, the government can lean on the provider and, in effect, hold the investment at ransom. In fact, both China and Russia have cracked down recently on VPN providers, and Apple was forced to remove VPN apps from its App Store in China this summer.

In other countries, courts may require email services providers to turn over customer data. For example, email provider Lavabit shut down its services in 2013 after the U.S. government ordered it to turn over its encryption keys to get access to Edward Snowden's email. This year, Lavabit relaunched with a new end-to-end encryption system, one in which only the customer, not the email vendor, has the keys.

The fear that an email provider can access messages is what's driving some corporate users to fully encrypted platforms, confirmed Andy Yen, founder and CEO at ProtonMail, which is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. ProtonMail is one of the largest end-to-end encrypted email providers. The company claims to have more than 20,000 paying customers, mostly small and medium-sized businesses, and more than 3 million users total.

It's a cloud-based service that can be accessed via a browser or a mobile app, but the actual encryption and decryption happens on the client device. That means that ProtonMail itself cannot read the emails, and won't be able to turn them over to anyone even if ordered by the courts.

Encryption is also part of GDPR compliance, the General Data Protection Regulation that goes into effect in Europe next year, and in the medical industry, it is required for HIPAA compliance. "Health care is our biggest segment on the enterprise side," Yen says.

As with other platforms, if the recipient is not a ProtonMail user, they'll get emailed a link instead, which they can use to access the secure online services. "The encryption is not automatic, and you have to exchange a password," Yen added. "Sometimes banks will send passwords in the post, or in-person, or in a separate email. We've seen all the different possibilities."

Since ProtonMail itself can't read the messages, the email platform doesn't offer all the bells and whistles of a full-featured cloud email client. For example, users can't search the body of the messages, just the subject line, sender, recipient, and time of the message.

Other enterprise platforms focus on desktop clients, which allow more flexibility. That includes Symantec Corp., which says it has "hundreds" of enterprise customers for its end-to-end email encryption product. Users can access the platform on mobile devices, via Web browser, and via an add-on for Outlook. "For people who have email encryption on their desktop clients, they can search through their emails on their own desktops," says Kathy Kriese, principal product manager at Symantec.

That's not the case for the externally-facing gateway email product, she added. That does not really allow for people to do searching easily," she says. "They would have to look message by message. Yes, that can be challenging, but it tends to be lower-volume communications, anyway."

Another vendor that supports Outlook desktop clients is Zix Corp., which claims to have 19,000 customers and 3.3 million users. ZixMail offers full end-to-end encryption with both the recipient and sender using the same platform, or a cloud portal when the recipient is not a customer. In addition, Zix offers filters so that companies can automatically have some emails encrypted end-to-end and the rest sent normally.

"The vast majority of our business users are in the health care and finance verticals," says David Wagner, CEO at Zix. If an email contains a patient record, it would automatically go through the encrypted channel. "That provides a very important level of protection for sensitive personal information, which is our primary use case," he says.

No interoperability in sight

A number of standards exist for end-to-end email encryption, but so far, none have reached critical mass with vendors. Take Symantec. It supports both the S/MIME and PGP/MIME encryption, says Symantec's Kriese. That doesn't mean that the system easily interoperates with those of other vendors.

[Related: Zix wins 5-vendor email encryption shootout]

"It does get more challenging when you're talking about partners," she says. "You can have a one-to-one relationship. That can be done. We even provide for the global directory, for people to put their public keys into a repository so others can search for them. But getting keys back and forth is a challenge."

Different platforms use different methods for managing encryption keys, and there are other bookkeeping types of issues that need to be resolved for vendors to interoperate. "Even with the best will in the world, the standards break down, because the vendors implement them slightly differently," says Steve Wilson, VP and principal analyst at Constellation Research Inc.

"People have been talking about getting encryption into email for decades now, and it still hasn't taken off because of the compatibility issue," says Jason Hong, associate professor in the human computer interaction institute at Carnegie Mellon University. Plus, you've got the current installed base working against you. "With email, you have to convince lots of people to upgrade simultaneously," he says. "When email was invented in the 70s, a lot of the encryption techniques weren't known and the CPU powers weren't that great," he says.

Earlier this year, Google open-sourced its own approach to end-to-end email encryption, E2EMail. "By open sourcing the technology, they would make it easily accessible and hopefully create some demand and momentum around their encryption, providing an industry standard for people to adopt," says Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT, Inc. At least, that was the idea. "I have not seen any sign of broad adoption of Google encryption," King says.

Even Google itself isn't using it. Three years ago, the company says that it was going to use E2EMail to in a Chrome extension that would seamlessly encrypt and decrypt Gmail messages in the browser, but that hasn't materialized.

Google does encrypt email in transit, and while the emails are saved on its servers, but it needs to be able to read the mail in order to filter our spam and phishing attacks, filter and search the emails, and, of course, mine it for marketing data.

"We're never really going to have widespread end-to-end encrypted email," says Kenneth White, director of the Open Crypto Audit Project. Purely internal email encryption systems can have as many protections and as much oversight built in as the company wants. "But as soon as you're interacting with a third-party system, you just have an email address," he says. "You have to think about whether everyone on the list has the same system, and that's just a non-starter for the vast majority of organizations."

Defaulting to a link inside the email that takes external recipients to a secure website works, he says. "But then it's a web application, it's a website. It's not email. I for one, and the others in the security field, don't see that there's ever going to be any kind of [general use] encrypted email."

IDG
A recent Wall Street Journal piece outlined the insidious evolution that took place during this summers ransomware attacks. What began with simple bitcoin requests quickly gave way to the morphing Petya threat, then to permanently encrypted data that made CIOs WannaCry.

Prior to the spring, a corporate officer facing a crypto-ransom demand was reasonably confident their data would be returned if the ransom was paid. As Labor Day approached however, honor among data thieves seems to have evaporated.

Extortion is a wholly different criminal enterprise. Ransom attacks are predicated on a stolen items perceived value  naked starlet pictures, confidential legal documents, or important customer data. These have values based on anothers willingness to purchase them. Paying the ransom is supposed to ensure those other parties dont get that opportunity.

In contrast, extortion is very personal, focused on the threat to a specific individual if they dont pay. The cliche of Mafia capos extorting shopkeepers was based on the threat of violence. The prey must not only have the ability to pay - they must also have a need for secrecy. They must be irreparably damaged (humiliated, shunned, or disgraced) if the threat becomes public.

In short, criminals ransom something, but they extort someone.

This summers victims

Its not simply the payment demand  there is also the threat of a continued trickling of sensitive data over time that ups this ante. HBO has dealt with this threat all summer, as hackers dribbled out Game of Thrones scripts, as well as personal data on the shows actors. And its not just the big brand names that are at risk  so are their digital supply chain vendors.

Netflix uses boutique audio engineering lab Larson Studios to perfect the sound for its award-winning series Orange is the New Black. In late 2016 Larson was hit by a ransom attack demanding $50,000. It was well into 2017 before the company realized the initial text message and email threats were real and their systems had been compromised. To protect their customer, (Netflix), Larson paid the ransom, but the shows were leaked anyway.

The Larson attack changes the corporate calculus in important ways. Big companies make investments predicated on the expectation of a reasonable rate of return for a given risk. They begrudgingly opt to pay a blackmailer based on the practical expectation their stolen assets will be returned. A known present value (ransom) for an uncertain future value, versus an uncertain return (extortion) for a known present value.

This is true regardless of the asset at risk - digital products, physical merchandise, or even a kidnapped executive. The Larson incident introduces doubt to these estimations; a risk that the firms will doubly lose  their asset and their ransom payment  making it less likely they will pay up in the future. Unfortunately, this means criminal elements will be less likely to use general ransomware and increasingly turn to very targeted extortion attacks.

Janus

In Greek mythology, Janus was the two-faced god of war & peace, capable of looking both into the past and the future. The cybersecurity version of this duality is coercion and extortion  use elicitative coercion tactics through spearphishing to extort money from victims. The pair make for significant windfalls for criminals by focusing only on those most likely to simply roll over and pay. This also avoids accidentally picking a personality type who decides to turn the tables on them  a cyber sort of Mel Gibsons character in Ransom.

Social media makes selecting the best target  one who is both susceptible and has the resources to pay  an increasingly simple exercise. In 2010 Facebook ran experiments on users to determine voter turn-out, and followed up in 2014 with experiments on manipulating emotions. With artificial intelligence, this ability to remotely analyze virtually anyone is growing in popularity.

Mind of the adversary

A recent article on the psychology of snipers outlined the differences in targeting an individual versus a faceless population, and what that entails. Pulling a firearms trigger and ending a life is obviously very different from targeting a person for extortion  but the successes of snipers to turn major conflicts speaks for itself. Why wouldnt criminal elements copy this success  cyber weapons can certainly reach longer distance than any projectile weapon.

Think about all the major personality tests  the MBTI, the Firo-B, and the Minnesota Personality Exam. These can all be conducted remotely by automated tools evaluating content from Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. Rather than an army of potential targets inside a big company, criminals can eliminate 90% or more of the employees most likely to report an extortion attempt.

Criminals can now know the 10% of employees to target in a company  the one most likely to quietly pay a ransom and quickly scurry for cover. If that doesnt scare a CSO, nothing will.
NAFCU-member credit unions and association senior staff today are meeting with Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson at HUD headquarters to discuss credit unions role in helping low-income individuals, affordable housing and the industrys priorities for housing finance reform.

NAFCU-member credit union representatives attending todays meeting include: Cutler Dawson, president and CEO of Navy Federal Credit Union; Karen Rosales, president and CEO of Arlington Community Federal Credit Union; Tim Anderson, president and CEO of Government Printing Office Federal Credit Union; Bill Kennedy, president and CEO of HUD Federal Credit Union; and Kim Adams, board member at HUD Federal Credit Union.

NAFCU President and CEO Dan Berger, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and General Counsel Carrie Hunt, Vice President of Legislative Affairs Brad Thaler and Director of Regulatory Affairs Alexander Monterrubio will also be at the meeting.
Its hard to believe that nearly three years has passed since Apple surprised the mobile payments world by stating that iPhone 6 users can make payments with the touch of a finger, beginning on October 20, 2014. About 500 credit unions and banks were among the initial issuers who agreed to a three-year term to participle, meaning their contracts are coming up for renewal. Many financial institutions signed on shortly thereafter. According to PYMNTS.com, the terms of the contract required the issuers to give up to Apple a half penny for every debit transaction or 0.15 percent of every credit transaction conducted through Apple Pay. These fees were over and above charges already assessed by the card networks and the processors. But those financial institutions, mostly larger or forward-thinking credit unions and banks, wanted to be on the forefront of what was highly touted to be the evolution to the long-awaited year of the mobile payments.

Much has transpired since then. First, while awareness was high, primarily due to the Apple cachet, and initial adoption by Apple users was and continues to be reasonable, 29% for Apple Pay versus 23% for Visa Checkout, according to paymentssource.com, but repeat usage at the point-of-sale remains anemic. According to the study, only 1 in 20 Apple users who could have used it, did so after the initial experience. So, if issuers feared a huge outflow of dollars to Apple for their cut of each credit and debit transaction, those fears were unfounded.

But in the past three years, three more subtle changes started and are continuing. First, Apple Pay has seen its greatest success stories in-app and in-browser. eCommerce merchants have always grappled with cart abonnement. Likewise, mobile ordering apps should incent potential users to overcome the hassle of entering a card number, the expiry, the CVV, and possibly wait for a confirmation code from the issuer authenticating the card. Apple Pay eliminates all of that, as Apple said in their initial press statement, with the touch of a finger. Many survey respondents, when asked if they have used Apple Pay in stores recently, may not even be thinking about how often they used Apple Pay on their mobile to pay for Uber or Lyft, Grubhub, Dunkin Donuts, myDisneyExperience, Bestbuy.com or any of the literally hundreds of apps and browsers. And the second change is that many merchants, typically alongside an upgrade to the point-of-sale terminal to accept EMV chip cards, have also been putting in place NFC acceptance, meaning Apple Pay can be accepted there as well. More specifically, the Wall Street Journal reported that a tipping point for Apple Pay could be imminent. Currently, its estimated that about one third of U.S. retailers support the NFC-based payment service. The third change is at the ATM. Wells Fargo announced support of Apple Pay in 2017, while Bank of America previously announced support for Apple Pay at select ATMs. This enables debit cardholders of those respective banks to withdraw money by selecting the debit card in Apple Play, if its not the default, and then tapping the phone at the ATM to complete the withdrawal. A side benefit is that it eliminates the threat of skimmers obtaining card data.

Should a credit union whose Apple Pay contract is coming up for renewal drop support, or continue? While it is an individual decision for each credit union, the answer should be  continue. Apple Pay adoption continues to grow, members are becoming accustomed to paying in-app by swiping a finger over the home button, and if a credit union drops support for Apple Pay, the member wont change their buying habit, but they certainly will change the card that enables that purchasing habit. Thats a risk not worth taking.
Which Countries Are Ready For Cyberwar?

According to US intelligence chiefs, more than 30 countries are developing offensive cyber-attack capabilities, although most of these government hacking programmes are shrouded in secrecy.

The US intelligence briefing lists Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea as the major "cyber threat actors" to worry about. Russia has a " highly advanced offensive cyber program" and has "conducted damaging and/or disruptive cyber-attacks including attacks on critical infrastructure networks", it warns.

China has also "selectively used cyber-attacks against foreign targets" and continues to "integrate and streamline its cyber operations and capabilities", said the report, which also said Iran has already used its cyber capabilities directly against the US with a distributed denial of service attacks targeting the US financial sector in 2012-3.

The report also notes that when it comes to North Korea: "Pyongyang remains capable of launching disruptive or destructive cyber-attacks to support its political objectives."

US Cyber-Warfare Capabilities

However, it's likely that the US has the most significant cyber-defence and cyber-attack capabilities. Speaking last year, President Obama said: "we're moving into a new era here, where a number of countries have significant capacities. And frankly we've got more capacity than anybody, both offensively and defensively."

Much of this capability comes from US Cyber Command, led by Admiral Rogers who also leads the NSA, which has a dual mission: to protect US Department of Defence networks but also to conduct "full spectrum military cyberspace operations in order to enable actions in all domains, ensure US/Allied freedom of action in cyberspace and deny the same to our adversaries".

Cyber Command is made up of a number of what it calls Cyber Mission Force teams. The Cyber National Mission Force teams defend the US by monitoring adversary activity, blocking attacks, and maneuvering to defeat them.

Cyber Combat Mission Force teams conduct military cyber operations to support military commanders, while the Cyber Protection Force teams defend the Department of Defense information networks.

By the end of fiscal year 2018, the goal is for the force to grow to nearly 6,200 and for all 133 teams to be fully operational. The US is believed to have used various forms of cyber weapons against the Iranian nuclear programme, the North Korean missile tests and the so-called Islamic State, with mixed results.

Reflecting the increased priority the US is putting on cyberwarfare capabilities in August 2017 President Donald Trump upgraded Cyber Command to the status of a Unified Combatant Command, which puts on the same level as groups such as the US Pacific Command and US Central Command.

At the same time the Department of Defense said it was also considering separating Cyber Command from the NSA: Admiral Rogers currently heads both organisations and they share staff and resources.

Other US agencies like the CIA and NSA have cyber-espionage capabilities and have in the past been involved with building cyber-weapons, such as the famous Stuxnet worm.

The UK has also publicly stated that is working on cyber defence and will strike back if attacked.

What do Cyber Weapons look like?

The tools of cyber-warfare can vary from the incredibly sophisticated to the utterly basic. It depends on the effect the attacker is trying to create. Many are part of the standard hacker toolkit, and a series of different tools could be used in concert as part of a cyber-attack.

For example, a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack was at the core of the attacks on Estonia in 2007.

Ransomware, which has been a constant source of trouble for businesses and consumers may also have been used not just to raise money but also to cause chaos.

There is some evidence to suggest that the recent Petya ransomware attack which originated in Ukraine but rapidly spread across the world may have looked like ransomware but was being deployed to effectively destroy data by encrypting it with no possibility of unlocking it.

Other standard hacker techniques are likely to form part of a cyberattack; phishing emails to trick users into handing over passwords or other data which can allow attackers further access to networks, for example. Malware and viruses could form part of an attack like the Shamoon virus, which wiped the hard drives of 30,000 PCs at Saudi Aramco in 2012.

According to the Washington Post, after revelations about Russian meddling in the run up to the 2016 US Presidential elections, President Obama authorised the planting cyber-weapons in Russia's infrastructure.

"The implants were developed by the NSA and designed so that they could be triggered remotely as part of retaliatory cyber-strike in the face of Russian aggression, whether an attack on a power grid or interference in a future presidential race," the report said.

Cyber-Warfare and Zero-Day attack stockpiles

Zero-day vulnerabilities are bugs or flaws in code which can give attackers access to or control over systems, but which have not yet been discovered and fixed by software companies. These flaws are particularly prized because there will likely be no way to stop hackers exploiting them.



There is a thriving trade in zero-day exploits that allow hackers to sidestep security: very handy for nations looking to build unstoppable cyber weapons. It is believed that many nations have stock piles of zero day exploits to use for either cyber espionage or as part of elaborate cyber weapons. Zero day exploits formed a key part of the Stuxnet cyber-weapon.

One issue with cyber-weapons, particularly those using zero-day exploits is that, unlike a conventional bomb or missile, a cyber-weapon can be analysed and even potentially repurposed and re-used by the country or group it was used against.

One good example of this is shown by the WannaCry ransomware attack which caused chaos in May 2017. The ransomware proved so virulent because it was supercharged with a zero-day vulnerability which had been stockpiled by the NSA, presumably to use in cyber-espionage.

But the tool was somehow acquired by the Shadow Brokers hacking group which then leaked it online, after which the ransomware writers incorporated it into their software, making it vastly more powerful.

This risk of unexpected consequences means that cyber weapons and tools have to be handled, and deployed, with great care. There is also the further risk that thanks to the hyper-connected world we live in that these weapons can spread much also cause much greater chaos than planned, which is what may have happened in the case of the Ukrainian Petya ransomware attack.

ZD Net:

You Might Also Read:

Cyberwar: A Guide:

Cyber Warfare Takes A New Turn:
Talking Points:

Weekend media reports suggest that Japanese PM Abe is at least open to the idea of a snap election

Theres no official confirmation of these, but reports cite political sources

The Yen is bearing the brunt of uncertainty generated

Just getting started in the Japanese Yen trading world? Our beginners guide is here for you

The Japanese Yen is weaker against the US Dollar as a new week gets under way, possibly thanks to widespread reports that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is mulling an early election.

Abes battered approval ratings have bounced back to near 50% in some polls and local media have quoted government and ruling party sources as saying this might be enough to see him go to the country. Abe governs in a collation of his Liberal Democratic Party and junior partner Komeito. He is reported as having told representatives of both that he might dissolve parliament following the convening of the legislature on September 28.

Reuters reports that one option might be to hold a snap election on October 22, when three by-elections are scheduled currently. Others might be later in October or in early November, after an expected visit by US President Donald Trump. Political sources reportedly told the wire service that Abe will make the call when he gets back from a US visit on September 22.

Abe is under no constitutional obligation to hold an election until late next year, and he may decide that he doesnt want to add to instability in a region already plagued by North Koreas defiance of the international community.

Still, the Yen seems to have taken a slide on this heightened political uncertainty, with USD/JPY nosing up in to the 111.00 handle. Japanese markets will be thinned or closed Monday for a national holiday, so its probably worth keeping in mind that any moves could snap back in short order Tuesday.

More broadly, USD/JPY looks more bullish than it has for some time. The pair has broken the long downtrend in place since it marked its 2017 peak, back on July 11. It seems quite comfortable above that trend line and may be building a new, higher base with support around last weeks lows of 109.25.

However, much of this newfound strength was rooted in the burst of risk appetite which started last weeks trading. That may not amount to a very permanent foundation and the uncommitted may want to wait and see whether this new, higher range base does in fact form.

--- Written by David Cottle, DailyFX Research

Contact and follow David on Twitter: @DavidCottleFX
Ashford Hospitality Trust is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on the hospitality industry. The companys portfolio is concentrated in upper upscale, full-service hotels across the US. The portfolio strategy seeks to optimize total returns by maximizing the value of new acquisitions while paying dividends over time. The company boasts a geographically diversified portfolio of dominant branded full-service hotels. Ashford Inc externally advises Ashford Hospitality Trust.

Ashford Hospitality Trust is the culmination of decades of real estate experience dating back to the 1960s. Now based in Dallas, TX, the company was founded and went public in 2003. The company is geared to withstand the ups and downs of the hospitality and hotel cycles. The company is committed to disciplined capital market activities, has a successful transaction track record, and brings value-added asset management to the table.

Ashford Hospitality Trust is guided by five principles that best describe the company. These are Ethical, Innovative, Profitable, Engaging, and Tenacious and all key components of its reputation for integrity.

The companys portfolio is well-diversified across brands and includes but is not limited to Courtyard, Crown Plaza, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Hilton, Marriot, Ritz-Carlton, and Sheraton. Properties are located in 25 of the 50 US states and Washington, D.C. targeting the top 25 markets in the nation. The company also owns a number of private and boutique names as well.

Ashford Hospitality Trust was founded by Monty J. Bennet who is the Chairman of the Board as well as Chairman, CEO, and President of Ashford, Inc which also trades on the NYSE. Mr. Bennet has more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry including owning and operating major hotels.
AstraZeneca PLC, a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the discovery, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of prescription medicines. Its marketed products include Calquence, Enhertu, Faslodex, Imfinzi, Iressa, Koselugo, Lumoxiti, Lynparza, Orpathys, Tagrisso, and Zoladex for oncology; Brilinta/Brilique, Bydureon/Byetta, BCise, Byetta, Crestor, Evrenzo, Farxiga/Forxiga, Komboglyze/Kombiglyze XR, Lokelma, Onglyza, Qtern, and Xigduo/Xigduo XR for cardiovascular, renal, and metabolism diseases; Bevespi Aerosphere, Breztri Aerosphere, Daliresp/Daxas, Duaklir Genuair, Fasenra, Pulmicort, Saphnelo, Symbicort, and Tudorza/Eklira/Bretaris for respiratory and immunology; and Andexxa/Ondexxya, Kanuma, Soliris, Strensiq, and Ultomiris for rare diseases. The company's marketed products also comprise Synagis for respiratory syncytial virus; Fluenz Tetra/FluMist Quadrivalent for Influenza; Seroquel IR/Seroquel XR for schizophrenia bipolar disease; Nexium, and Losec/Prilosec for gastroenterology; and Vaxzevria and Evusheld for covid-19. The company serves primary care and specialty care physicians through distributors and local representative offices in the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Australasia. It has a collaboration agreement with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to research, develop, and commercialize small molecule medicines for obesity; Neurimmune AG to develop and commercialize NI006; Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to develop eplontersen, a liver-targeted antisense therapy in Phase III development for the treatment of transthyretin amyloidosis; Proteros Biostructures GmbH to jointly discover novel small molecules for the treatment of hematological cancers; Sierra Oncology, Inc. to develop and commercialize AZD5153. The company was formerly known as Zeneca Group PLC and changed its name to AstraZeneca PLC in April 1999. AstraZeneca PLC was incorporated in 1992 and is headquartered in Cambridge, the United Kingdom.
September has been designated by the Wisconsin Court System as a time to recognize and thank jurors for their participation in the American Justice system. On behalf of all Racine County Circuit Court judges, I wish to thank the 3,873 citizens who answered the call to participate in 59 jury trials conducted in 2016 and the 2,663 citizens who have participated in 28 jury trials in Racine County this year.

Statewide Juror Appreciation Month was launched in Wisconsin in 2008 and repeated every September. The Governor, the Legislature and our state Supreme Court have signed proclamations thanking Wisconsin jurors for their participation and important contribution to our justice system. The statewide theme in appreciation of jurors is Jurors Serve Justice; Justice Serves Us All.

The privilege of ordinary citizens to serve as fact finders in jury trials is among the most democratic of American institutions. The very idea that ordinary citizens without experience in law or the judicial process should decide issues of great importance is certainly unusual in todays world. Most democratic governments assign this important function to trained legal authorities, but in the United States and in all American courtrooms, it is the people themselves, as jurors, who make the determinations of fact in every jury trial. Under the American judicial system the trial judge renders decisions concerning law and procedure, but it is the jurors who collectively decide the facts of the case.

The right to a trial by jury is guaranteed by the Sixth and Seventh Amendments to the United States Constitution and Article 1, section 5, of the Wisconsin Constitution.

Justice Byron White of the United States Supreme Court best summarized the meaning of our constitutional protection to a trial by juror participation in Duncan v. Louisiana, 391 U.S. 145 (1968) when he wrote:

The guarantees of jury trial in the Federal and State Constitutions reflect a profound judgment about the way in which law should be enforced and justice administered. A right to jury trial is granted to criminal defendants in order to prevent oppression by the Government The framers of the constitutions strove to create an independent judiciary but insisted upon further protection against arbitrary action. Providing an accused with the right to be tried by a jury of his peers gave him an inestimable safeguard against the corrupt or overzealous prosecutor and against the compliant, biased or eccentric judgeBeyond this, the jury trial provisions in the Federal and State Constitutions reflect a fundamental decision about the exercise of official power-a reluctance to entrust plenary powers over the life and liberty of the citizen to one judge or to a group of judges.

Daily I see fellow citizens take time out from their busy lives to exercise their civic duty to serve as jurors. I have seen firsthand their attentiveness to my directions on law and their commitment and compliance with their charge to search for the truth.

I personally (and I believe I speak for all Racine County Circuit judges) want to say thank you to those who answer the call to serve as jurors and serve this important function in our justice system.
Telefonica Brasil S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides mobile and fixed telecommunications services to residential and corporate customers in Brazil. Its fixed line services portfolio includes local, domestic long-distance, and international long-distance calls; and mobile portfolio comprises voice and broadband internet access through 3G, 4G, 4.5G, and 5G as well as mobile value-added services and wireless roaming services. The company also offers data services, including broadband and mobile data services. In addition, it provides pay TV services through direct to home satellite technology, IPTV, and cable, as well as pay-per-view and video on demand services; network services, such as rental of facilities; other services comprising internet access, private network connectivity, computer equipment leasing, extended service, caller identification, voice mail, cellular blocker, and others; wholesale services, including interconnection services to users of other network providers; and digital services, such as entertainment, cloud, and security and financial services. Further, the company offers multimedia communication services, which include audio, data, voice and other sounds, images, texts, and other information, as well as sells devices, such as smartphones, broadband USB modems, and other devices. Additionally, it provides telecommunications solutions and IT support to various industries, such as retail, manufacturing, services, financial institutions, government, etc. It markets and sells its solutions through own stores, dealers, retail and distribution channels, door-to-door sales, and outbound tele sales. The company was formerly known as Telecomunicacoes de Sao Paulo S.A. - TELESP and changed its name to Telefonica Brasil S.A. in October 2011. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
American Midstream Partners, LP provides midstream infrastructure that links the producers of natural gas, crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), condensate, and specialty chemicals to various intermediate and end-use markets in the United States and Mexico. Its Gas Gathering and Processing Services segment offers services to producers of natural gas and crude oil, including transporting raw natural gas and crude oil from various receipt points through gathering systems, treating the raw natural gas, processing raw natural gas to separate the NGLs from the natural gas, fractionating NGLs, and selling or delivering pipeline-quality natural gas and NGLs. The company's Liquid Pipelines and Services segment transports, purchases, and sells crude oil. Its Natural Gas Transportation Services segment transports and delivers natural gas from producing wells, receipt points, or pipeline interconnects for shippers, local distribution companies, and utilities, as well as industrial, commercial, and power generation customers. The company's Offshore Pipelines and Services segment gathers and transports natural gas from receipt points to other pipeline interconnects, onshore facilities, and other delivery points. Its Terminalling Services segment provides petroleum products, distillates, chemicals, and agricultural products storage services at its marine terminals for commodity brokers, refiners, and chemical manufacturers. As of May 10, 2018, the company owned approximately 5,100 miles of interstate and intrastate pipelines; gas processing plants and fractionation facilities; an offshore semisubmersible floating production system with nameplate processing capacity of 90 thousand barrels per day of crude oil and 220 million cubic feet per day of natural gas; and terminal sites with approximately 6.7 million barrels of storage capacity. American Midstream GP, LLC serves as the general partner of the company. The company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Koil Energy Solutions, Inc., an energy services company, provides equipment and support services to the energy and offshore industries. It offers engineering and project management services, including the design, installation, and retrieval of subsea equipment and systems; connection and termination operations services; well-commissioning services; and construction support services. The company also provides project management and engineering; spooling; testing and commissioning; storage management; and refurbishment and repurposing of recovered subsea equipment, as well as support services for offshore interventions. In addition, it offers loose steel tube flying lead and umbilical hardware products, as well as riser isolation valves and subsea isolation valve services. Further, the company provides installation aids, including flying lead installation systems, tensioners, lay chutes, buoyancy modules, clump weights, mud mats, pumping and testing skids, control booths, fluid drum carriers, under-rollers, carousels, running and parking deployment frames, termination shelters, pipe straighteners, subsea deployment basket system, horizontal drive units, and rapid deployment cartridges. It serves energy companies, subsea equipment manufacturers, subsea equipment installation contractors, offshore drilling contractors, engineering and construction companies, and other companies involved in maritime operations. The company was formerly known as Deep Down, Inc. and changed its name to Koil Energy Solutions Inc. in April 2022. Koil Energy Solutions Inc. was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of TransDigm Group: 17111 Waterview Pkwy LLC, ARA Deutschland GmbH, ARA Holding GmbH, Acme Aerospace, Acme Aerospace Inc., Adams Rite Aerospace GmbH, Adams Rite Aerospace Inc., Advanced Inflatable Products Limited, Aero-Instruments, AeroControlex Group Inc., Aerosonic, Aerosonic LLC, Air-Sea Survival Equipment Trustee Limited, Airborne Acquisition Inc., Airborne Global Inc., Airborne Holdings Inc., Airborne Systems, Airborne Systems Canada Ltd., Airborne Systems Group Limited, Airborne Systems Holdings Limited, Airborne Systems Limited, Airborne Systems NA Inc., Airborne Systems North America Inc., Airborne Systems North America of CA Inc., Airborne Systems North America of NJ Inc., Airborne Systems Pension Trust Limited, Airborne UK Acquisition Limited, Airborne UK Parent Limited, Aircraft Materials Limited, AmSafe, AmSafe Aviation (Chongqing) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Private) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport Ltd., AmSafe Global Holdings Inc., AmSafe Global Services (Private) Limited, AmSafe Inc., Angus Electronics Co., Arkwin Industries, Arkwin Industries Inc., Armtec Countermeasures Co., Armtec Countermeasures TNO Co., Armtec Defense Products Co., Auxitrol SAS, Auxitrol Weston Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Auxitrol Weston Services China Ltd., Auxitrol Weston Singapore Pte. Ltd., Auxitrol Weston USA Inc., Aviation Technologies, Aviation Technologies Inc., Avionic Instruments LLC, Avionics Instruments, Avionics Specialties Inc., AvtechTyee Inc., Beta Transformer Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, Beta Transformer Technology LLC, Breeze-Eastern Corporation, Breeze-Eastern LLC, Bridport Erie Aviation Inc., Bridport Holdings Inc., Bridport Ltd., Bridport-Air Carrier Inc., Bruce Aerospace Inc., Bruce Industries, CDA InterCorp LLC, CEF Industries LLC, CMC Electronics Aurora LLC, CMC Electronics Inc., CMC Electronics ME Inc., Champion Aerospace LLC, Chelton Avionics Holdings Inc., Chelton Avionics Inc., Chelton Limited, Cobham Aero Connectivity, Cobham CTS Limited, Cobham Defence Communications Limited, Cobham Defense Products Inc., DART Aerospace, DDC Electronics K.K., DDC Electronics Ltd., DDC Electronics Private Limited, DDC Electronique S.A.R.L., DDC Elektronik GmbH, Darchem Engineering Limited, Darchem Holdings Limited, Data Device Corp., Data Device Corporation, Dukes Aerospace Inc., EST Defence Company UK Limited, Edlaw Limited, Electromech Technologies LLC, Elektro-Metall Export GmbH, Elektro-Metall Paks KFT, Esterline, Esterline Acquisition Ltd, Esterline Europe Company LLC, Esterline Foreign Sales Corporation, Esterline International Company, Esterline Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Esterline Technologies Corporation, Esterline Technologies Corporation, Esterline Technologies Europe Limited, Esterline Technologies France Holding SAS, Esterline Technologies French Acquisition Limited, Esterline Technologies Global Limited, Esterline Technologies Holdings Limited, Esterline Technologies SGIP LLC, Esterline Technologies Unlimited, Esterline do Brasil Assessoria e Intermediacao Ltda, European Antennas Limited, Extant Components Group Holdings Inc., Extant Components Group Intermediate Inc., GQ Parachutes Limited, Guizhou Leach-Tianyi Aviation Electrical Company Ltd, Harco, HarcoSemco LLC, Hartwell Corporation, Hytek Finishes Co., ILC Holdings Inc., IRVIN AEROSPACE LIMITED, IrvinGQ France SAS, IrvinGQ Limited, Janco Corporation, Johnson Liverpool LLC, Kirkhill Elastomers, Kirkhill Inc., Korry Electronics Co., Kunshan Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., Leach Holding Corporation, Leach International Asia-Pacific Ltd, Leach International Corporation, Leach International Europe S.A.S., Leach International Germany GmbH, Leach International Mexico S. de R. L. de C. V., Leach International UK Ltd, Leach Mexico Holding LLC, Leach Technology Group Inc., MarathonNorco Aerospace Inc., Mason Electric Co., Mastsystem Int'l Oy, McKechnie Aerospace, McKechnie Aerospace (Europe) Ltd., McKechnie Aerospace DE Inc., McKechnie Aerospace DE LP, McKechnie Aerospace Holdings Inc., McKechnie Aerospace US LLC, Mecanismos de Matamoros S. de R.L. de C.V., NAT Seattle Inc., NMC Group Inc., Norco, Nordisk Asia Pacific Limited, Nordisk Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, Nordisk Aviation Products (Kunshan) Ltd., Nordisk Aviation Products AS, Nordisk Aviation Products LLC, North Hills Signal Processing Corp., North Hills Signal Processing Overseas LLC, Norwich Aero Products Inc., Palomar Products Inc., Pexco Aerospace, Pexco Aerospace Inc., PneuDraulics, PneuDraulics Inc., Pressure Systems International Ltd, Schneller, Schneller Asia Pte. Ltd., Schneller LLC, Schneller S.A.R.L., Schroth Safety Products, Semco Instruments, Semco Instruments Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., Signal Processing Matamoros S.A. de C.V., Skandia, Skandia Inc., Skurka Aerospace, Skurka Aerospace Inc., Symetrics Industries, Symetrics Industries LLC, Symetrics Technology Group LLC, TA Aerospace Co., TA Mfg Limited, TDG Bavaria GmbH, TDG ESL Holdings Inc., TDG France Ultimate Parent SAS, TDG Germany GmbH, TEAC Aerospace Holdings Inc., TEAC Aerospace Technologies Inc., Tactair Fluid Controls Inc., Takata Protection Systems, Telair International, Telair International GmbH, Telair International Services PTE Ltd, Telair US LLC, TransDigm (Barbados) SRL, TransDigm Canada ULC, TransDigm European Holdings Limited, TransDigm Ireland Ltd., TransDigm Receivables LLC, TransDigm Technologies India Private Limited, TransDigm UK Holdings plc, Transicoil (Malaysia) Sendirian Berhad, Transicoil LLC, Wallop Defence UK Limited, Weston Aerospace Ltd, Whippany Actuation Systems, Whippany Actuation Systems LLC, XCEL Power Systems Ltd., Young & Franklin, Young & Franklin Inc., and exas Rotronics Inc..

Read More
Phillips 66 operates as an energy manufacturing and logistics company. It operates through four segments: Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties (M&S). The Midstream segment transports crude oil and other feedstocks; delivers refined petroleum products to market; provides terminaling and storage services for crude oil and refined petroleum products; transports, stores, fractionates, exports, and markets natural gas liquids; provides other fee-based processing services; and gathers, processes, transports, and markets natural gas. The Chemicals segment produces and markets ethylene and other olefin products; aromatics and styrenics products, such as benzene, cyclohexane, styrene, and polystyrene; and various specialty chemical products, including organosulfur chemicals, solvents, catalysts, and chemicals used in drilling and mining. The Refining segment refines crude oil and other feedstocks into petroleum products, such as gasolines, distillates, aviation, and renewable fuels at 12 refineries in the United States and Europe. The M&S segment purchases for resale and markets refined petroleum products, including gasolines, distillates, and aviation fuels primarily in the United States and Europe. This segment also manufactures and markets specialty products, such as base oils and lubricants. The company was founded in 1875 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
China-funded airline struggles to fly to Beijing, Guangzhou

The government has formally requested the Chinese government to allow Himalaya Airlines to operate its flight to and from two major international airports in Beijing and Guangzhou.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Deutschland GmbH, ITW Diagraph GmbH, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW EU Holdings Ltd., ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.L., ITW European Finance Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion Shenzhen Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Illinois Tool Works Chile Limitada, Illinois Tool Works ITW Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V..

Read More
Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, small and medium enterprises, and corporate customers in Brazil and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Commercial Banking and Global Wholesale Banking. It offers deposits and other bank funding instruments; debit and credit cards; digital prepaid solutions; payment platform; loyalty programs; employee benefit vouchers; payroll loans; digital lending and online debt renegotiation services; mortgages; home equity financing products; consumer credit; and local loans, commercial and trade finance, guarantees, structured loans, and cash management and funding solutions, as well as on-lending transfer services. It also provides funding and financial advisory services related to projects, origination and distribution of fixed-income securities in the debt capital markets, financing of acquisitions and syndicated loans, other structured financing arrangements, and subordinated debt and energy efficiency transactions; advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, and equity capital markets transactions; and stock brokerage and advisory, equity, and equity research services. In addition, the company structures and offers foreign exchange, derivative, and investment products for institutional investors, and corporate and retail customers; and provides market making services. Further, it offers instant payment services; range of products and services focused on the agribusiness sector; microfinance services; and online automotive listing and digital car insurance solutions, as well as digital trading platform. Additionally, it provides its financial services and products to its customers through multichannel distribution network comprising branches, mini-branches, ATMs, call centers, Internet banking, and mobile banking. Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A. was incorporated in 1985 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Despite setbacks, the implementation of the constitution is commendable

Nepal marks the second anniversary of the constitution promulgation on Tuesday. Despite the failure of two constitutional amendments and the dissatisfaction of Madhesi-parties,
Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. It operates through approximately 900 bank branches and 3,300 automated banking machines in Canada and the United States. Bank of Montreal was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
Associated Banc-Corp, a bank holding company, provides various banking and nonbanking products to individuals and businesses in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. The company operates through three segments: Corporate and Commercial Specialty; Community, Consumer, and Business; and Risk Management and Shared Services. Its Corporate and Commercial Specialty segment offers lending solutions, including commercial loans and lines of credit, commercial real estate financing, construction loans, letters of credit, leasing, asset based lending, and loan syndications; deposit and cash management solutions, such as commercial checking and interest-bearing deposit products, cash vault and night depository services, liquidity solutions, payables and receivables solutions, and information services; specialized financial services such as interest rate risk management, foreign exchange solutions, and commodity hedging; fiduciary services such as administration of pension, profit-sharing and other employee benefit plans, fiduciary and corporate agency services, and institutional asset management; and investable funds solutions such as savings, money market deposit accounts, IRA accounts, CDs, fixed and variable annuities, full-service, discount and online investment brokerage; investment advisory services; and trust and investment management accounts. The company's Community, Consumer, and Business segment offers lending solutions, such as residential mortgages, home equity loans and lines of credit, personal and installment loans, auto loans, business loans, and business lines of credit; and deposit and transactional solutions such as checking, credit, debit and pre-paid cards, online banking and bill pay; and money transfer services. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated 215 banking branches. Associated Banc-Corp was founded in 1861 and is headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Teledyne Technologies Incorporated provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, and internationally. The company's Instrumentation segment offers monitoring and control instruments for marine, environmental, industrial, and other applications, as well as electronic test and measurement equipment; and power and communications connectivity devices for distributed instrumentation systems and sensor networks. Its Digital Imaging segment provides visible spectrum sensors and digital cameras for industrial machine vision and automated quality control, as well as for medical, research, and scientific applications; and infrared and X-ray spectra for use in industrial, government, and medical applications, as well as micro electromechanical systems and semiconductors, including analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. This segment also offers thermal imaging systems, visible-light imaging systems, locater systems, measurement and diagnostic systems, and threat-detection solutions. The company's Aerospace and Defense Electronics segment provides electronic components and subsystems, as well as communications products, such as defense electronics, environment interconnects, data acquisition and communications equipment for aircraft, components and subsystems for wireless and satellite communications, and general aviation batteries. Its Engineered Systems segment offers systems engineering and integration, technology development, and manufacturing solutions for defense, space, environmental, and energy applications; and designs and manufactures electrochemical energy systems and electronics for military applications. The company markets and sells its products and services through a direct internal sales force, as well as third-party sales representatives and distributors. Teledyne Technologies Incorporated was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California.
DPM Mahara leaves for New York for UNGA

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Krishna Bahadur Mahara left for New York on Sunday to participate in the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He is accompanied on the trip by some senior officials of the ministry.
PLDT Inc. provides telecommunications and digital services in the Philippines. It operates through three segments: Wireless, Fixed Line, and Others. The company offers cellular mobile, Internet broadband distribution, operations support, software development, and satellite information and messaging services; and sells Wi-Fi access equipment. It also provides fixed line telecommunications services; business infrastructure and solutions; intelligent data processing and implementation, and data analytics insight generation services; and information and communications infrastructure for Internet-based services, e-commerce, customer relationship management, and information technology (IT) related services. In addition, the company offers managed IT outsourcing, Internet-based purchasing, IT consulting and professional, bills printing and other related value-added, and air transportation services; distributes Filipino channels and content services; and provides full-services customer rewards and loyalty programs. Further, it engages in the sale of mobile handsets, broadband data routers, tablets, and accessories, as well as provides domestic leased lines and alternative messaging solutions, such as over-the-top services, social media, and messenger application. As of December 31, 2021, it had 71,221,952 mobile broadband subscribers; 3,619,372 fixed line subscribers; and 2.8 million broadband subscribers. The company was formerly known as Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company and changed its name to PLDT Inc. in July 2016. PLDT Inc. was incorporated in 1928 and is headquartered in Makati City, the Philippines.
The following companies are subsidiares of Accenture: 2nd Road, ?What If!, ?What If! China Holdings Limited, ?What If! Holdings Limited, ?What If! Limited, ACN Consulting Co Ltd, AD.Dialeto (Digital Agency acquired by Accenture), AFD.TECH, AGS Business and Technology Services Limited, AIG Shared Services Business Processing Inc, ASM Research Inc., ASM Research LLC, ATAN, Accenture (Botswana) (Proprietary) Limited, Accenture (China) Co. Ltd., Accenture (Shenzhen) Technology Co. Ltd., Accenture (South Africa) Pty Ltd, Accenture (UK) Limited, Accenture 2 Business Process Services S.A., Accenture 2 LLC, Accenture A/S, Accenture AB, Accenture AG, Accenture AS, Accenture Africa Pty Ltd, Accenture Agencia Interativa Ltda, Accenture Australia Holding B.V., Accenture Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Accenture Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture B.V., Accenture BPM Operations Support Services S.A., Accenture BPM S.C.R.L., Accenture BPS Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Branch Holdings B.V., Accenture Bulgaria EOOD, Accenture Business Services for Utilities Inc, Accenture Business Services of British Columbia Limited Partnership, Accenture Business and Technology Services LLC, Accenture C.A., Accenture Canada Holdings Inc, Accenture Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Capital Inc, Accenture Central Europe B.V., Accenture Chile Asesorias y Servicios Ltda, Accenture Cloud Services GmbH, Accenture Cloud Software Solutions Limited, Accenture Cloud Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Accenture Cloud Solutions LLC, Accenture Cloud Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Co Ltd, Accenture Co. Ltd, Accenture Communications Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, Accenture Company Ltd, Accenture Consulting Pty Ltd, Accenture Consulting Services Ltd Tanzania, Accenture Consultores de Gestao S.A., Accenture Consultoria de Industria e Consumo Ltda, Accenture Consultoria de Recursos Naturais Ltda, Accenture Credit Services LLC, Accenture Customer Services Distribution SASU, Accenture Customer Services Ltd, Accenture Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, Accenture Defined Benefit Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Accenture Delivery Poland S.p. z o.o., Accenture Dienstleistungen GmbH, Accenture Digital Holdings GmbH, Accenture East Africa Limited, Accenture Ecuador S.A., Accenture Egypt LLC, Accenture Enterprise Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Accenture Federal Services LLC, Accenture Finance II Limited, Accenture Finance Limited, Accenture Finance and Accounting BPO Services S.p.A., Accenture Finance and Accounting Services S.r.l., Accenture Financial Advanced Solution & Technology S.r.l., Accenture Flex LLC, Accenture GP LLC, Accenture Global Capital Designated Activity Company, Accenture Global Engagements Limited, Accenture Global Holdings Limited, Accenture Global Services Limited, Accenture Global Solutions Limited, Accenture GmbH, Accenture HR Services S.p.A., Accenture Healthcare Processing Inc, Accenture Holding Brasil Ltda, Accenture Holding GmbH & Co. KG, Accenture Holdings (Iberia) S.L., Accenture Holdings B.V., Accenture Holdings France SASU, Accenture Hungary Holdings Kft, Accenture Inc, Accenture Industrial Software Limited Liability Company, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions Kft, Accenture Industrial Software Solutions SA, Accenture Insurance Services B.V., Accenture Insurance Services LLC, Accenture International B.V., Accenture International LLC, Accenture International Limited, Accenture Japan Ltd, Accenture Korea B.V., Accenture LLC, Accenture LLP, Accenture Lanka (Private) Ltd, Accenture Limited, Accenture Lithuania UAB, Accenture Ltd, Accenture Ltda, Accenture Maghreb S.a.r.l., Accenture Managed Services SRL, Accenture Management GmbH, Accenture Marketing Services LLC, Accenture Marketing Services Limited, Accenture Middle East B.V., Accenture Minority I B.V., Accenture Mozambique Limitada, Accenture Mzansi Pty Ltd, Accenture NV/SA, Accenture NZ Limited, Accenture Nova Scotia Unlimited Liability Co., Accenture OOO, Accenture Operations GmbH, Accenture Operations S.p. z o.o., Accenture Operations Services Private Limited, Accenture Operations Services Sdn Bhd, Accenture Outsourcing S.r.l., Accenture Outsourcing Services S.A., Accenture Oy, Accenture Panama Inc, Accenture Participations B.V., Accenture Participations II Limited, Accenture Peru SRL, Accenture Post Trade Processing SASU, Accenture Post-Trade Processing Limited, Accenture Process (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Pte Ltd, Accenture Puerto Rico LLC, Accenture Qiyun Technology (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd, Accenture S.C., Accenture S.L., Accenture S.R.L., Accenture S.p. z o.o., Accenture S.p.A., Accenture SASU, Accenture SG Services Pte Ltd, Accenture SRL, Accenture Saudi Arabia Limited, Accenture Sdn Bhd, Accenture Service Center SRL, Accenture Services (Mauritius) Ltd, Accenture Services AB, Accenture Services AG, Accenture Services AS, Accenture Services GmbH, Accenture Services Morocco SA, Accenture Services Oy, Accenture Services Pty Ltd, Accenture Services S.p. z o.o., Accenture Services SRL, Accenture Services and Technology S.r.l., Accenture Services s.r.o., Accenture Single Member S.A. Organization Information Technology & Business Development, Accenture Solutions Co. Ltd, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Accenture Solutions Pte Ltd, Accenture Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Solutions S.p. z o.o, Accenture Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture State Healthcare Services LLC, Accenture Sub II Inc, Accenture Sub III Inc, Accenture Sub LLC, Accenture Systems Integration Limited, Accenture Sarl, Accenture Tanacsado Kolatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Accenture Technology Solutions (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (HK) Co. Ltd., Accenture Technology Solutions (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions - Solucoes Informaticas Integradas S.A., Accenture Technology Solutions GmbH, Accenture Technology Solutions Oy, Accenture Technology Solutions Pty Ltd, Accenture Technology Solutions S.A. de C.V., Accenture Technology Solutions S.r.l., Accenture Technology Solutions SASU, Accenture Technology Solutions SRL, Accenture Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, Accenture Technology Solutions Slovakia s.r.o., Accenture Technology Ventures B.V., Accenture Technology Ventures SPRL, Accenture Tecnologia Consultoria y Outsourcing S.A., Accenture Uruguay SRL, Accenture Vietnam Co. Limited, Accenture Zambia Limited, Accenture do Brasil Ltda, Accenture plc, Accenture s.r.o., Acceria, Acquity Group, Adaptly LLC, Adaptly UK Limited, AddVal Technology, Adqptly, Advantium Inc., Advoco, Agilex Technologies Inc., Alfa Consulting, Allen International, AlphaBeta Advisors, Altevie Technologies S.r.l., Altima, Altima (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Altima Asia Ltd, Altitude, Altitude LLC, Altius Consulting Limited, Altius Data Solutions Private Limited, Analytics 8 LP, Analytics 8 Pty Ltd, Analytics8, Aorui Advertising (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Apis, Apis Group Pty Ltd, Appaloosa Technology SASU, AppsPro, AppsPro, Arca, Arca Ingenieros y Consultoria S.L., Arca Telecom S.L., Ariba - BPO, Arismore, Artio People (Payroll) Pty Ltd, Artio People Pty Ltd, Aspiro Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Automation Partners Pty Ltd, Avanade (Guangzhou) Computer Technology Development Co. Ltd., Avanade Asia Pte Ltd, Avanade Australia Pty Ltd, Avanade Belgium SPRL, Avanade Canada Inc, Avanade Consulting Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Denmark A/S, Avanade Deutschland GmbH, Avanade Europe Holdings Limited, Avanade Europe Services Limited, Avanade Finland Oy, Avanade France SASU, Avanade Holdings LLC, Avanade Hong Kong Ltd, Avanade Inc, Avanade International Corporation, Avanade Ireland Limited, Avanade Italy S.r.l., Avanade Japan KK, Avanade Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avanade Middle East Limited, Avanade Netherlands B.V., Avanade Norway AS, Avanade Poland S.p. z o.o., Avanade Schweiz GmbH, Avanade South Africa Pty Ltd, Avanade Spain S.L., Avanade Sweden AB, Avanade UK Limited, Avanade do Brasil Ltda , Avanade Osterreich GmbH, Avenai, Avieco, Axia Ltd., BABCN LLC, BCS Consulting, BCT Solutions, BCT Solutions Pty Ltd, BENEXT, BPO Servicos Administrativos Ltda, BRIDGE Energy Group, BRIDGEi2i, Beacon Consulting Group Inc., Beijing Genesis Interactive Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing Zhidao Future Consulting Co. Ltd, Benext, Berico Technologies LLC, Bionic, Bionic Solution LLC, Blue Horseshoe, Boomerang Pharmaceutical Communications, Bow & Arrow, Bow & Arrow Limited, Brand Learning, Brand Learning Group Limited, Brightstep AB, Byte Prophecy, Byte Prophecy Private Limited, CAS, CRMWaypoint, CS Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd, CS Technology (UK) Limited, CS Technology Group LLC, CS Technology LLC, CadenceQuest Inc., Callisto Integration Europe B.V., Callisto Integration Europe Limited, Callisto Integration LLC, Callisto Integration Ltd, Capgemini - North American health practice, Capital Consultancy Services Inc, Certus Solutions Consulting Services Limited, Certus Solutions Ltd, ChangeTrack Research Pty Ltd., Chaotic Moon Studios, Chengdu Mensa Advertising Co. Ltd., Cimation, Cirrus Connect Australia Pty Ltd, Cirrus Connect Limited, Cirruseo, Clarity Insights, ClearEdge Partners, Clearhead, Clearhead Group LLC, ClientHouse GmbH, Cloud Sherpas, Cloud Sherpas (GA) LLC, Cloud Sherpas Japan G.K., Cloud Sherpas New Zealand Limited, Cloudeasier SAS, Cloudpoint Limited, Cloudsherpas Inc, Cloudworks, Cloudworks Consulting Services Inc, Cloudworks Technology LLC, Computer Research and Telecommunications LLC, Concrete Desenvolvimento de Sistemas Ltda, Concrete Solutions, Concrete Solutions Ltda, Context Information Security, Context Information Security LLC, Context Information Security Limited, CoreCompete LLC, CoreCompete Limited, CoreCompete Private Limited, Corliant Inc., Creative Drive LLC, Creative Drive US LLC, CreativeDrive, CreativeDrive Digital Content Services (Shenzhen) Co Ltd., CreativeDrive EMEA Limited, CreativeDrive Singapore Pte Ltd, CreativeDrive UK Group Limited, Cutting Edge Solutions Limited, Cygni AB, Cygni Norrsken AB, Cygni Stockholm AB, Cygni Syd AB, Cygni Vast AB, Cygni Ost AB, Cygni Ostersund AB, DAZ Systems Inc, DAZ Systems LLC, DAZSI Systems (India) Pvt. Limited, DI Futures Corporation, Data Essential SARL, Davies Consulting, DayNine Consulting, DayNine Consulting (New Zealand) Limited, DayNine Consulting LLC, Declarative Holdings LLC, Decora Marketplace LLC, Decorado Marketplace Ltda-EPP, Defense Point Security, Deja vu Security, Design Strategy and Research de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Designaffairs LLC, Digiplug S.A.S., Digital Results Group LLC, Double Digit Limitada, Double Digit Pty SA, Droga5, Droga5 LLC, Droga5 Studios LLC, Droga5 UK Limited, Duck Creek Technologies, ESR Labs, ESR Labs AG, EdenOne Solutions Limited, Edenhouse ERP Holdings Limited, Edenhouse Solutions Limited, Enaxis Consulting, Enaxis Consulting LP, End to End Analytics LLC, End-to-End Analytics, Endorphin Medici (M) Sdn Bhd, Energuia Web S.A., Energy Management Brokers Limited, EnergyQuote JHA, Enimbos, Enimbos Global Services S.L., Enkitec, Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions LLC, Enterprise System Partners, Enterprise System Partners B.V., Enterprise System Partners Bilisim Danismanlik Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Enterprise System Partners Global Corporation, Enterprise System Partners Limited, Enthusian Pty Ltd, Entropia, Entropia (M) Sdn Bhd, Entropia Holdings Pte Ltd, Entropia Intercraft Sdn Bhd, Epylon, Ergo, Espedia S.r.l., Ethica Consulting Group, Ethica Consulting S.p.A., Evopro Group, Exactside Limited, Experity, Exton Consulting, Exton Consulting Spain Strategy&Management S.L., Exton Germany GmbH, Exton International SAS, Exton Italia S.r.l., Exton SAS, FGM LLC, Fairway Technologies Inc, Farah BidCo Limited, Farah MidCo Limited, Farah Topco Limited, Filmproduction ApS, First Annapolis Consulting Inc., First Annapolis Consulting LLC, Fjord, Focus Group Europe, Formicary, Founders Intelligence, Fruendo S.r.l., FusionX, Future State Consulting LLC, FutureMove (Beijing) Automotive Technology Co. Ltd., FutureMove Automotive, FutureMove Automotive Co. Ltd., GRA Supply Chain Pty Ltd, Gagel Group S de R.L. de C.V., Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda, Gapso Servicos de Informatica Ltda., Genfour, George Group Consulting L.P., Gestalt LLC, Gevity, Gren utvikling AS, H.B. Maynard and Co. Inc., HRC Retail Advisory, Hagberg Consulting Group, Hahntel Ltda, Halo Partners LLC, Hamilton Holding Company S.A, Hangzhou Aiyunzhe Technology Co. Ltd., Happen, Happen GP Limited, Happen Limited, Headspring, Hjaltelin Stahl, Hjaltelin Stahl A/S, Hjaltelin Stahl K/S, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting AS, Hytracc Consulting Malaysia Sdn Bhd, IBB Consulting, ICM.S S.r.l., IMJ Corp, IMJ Corporation, INSITUM, IQSP Consulting LLC, IT One Company Limited, ITBS Servicios Bancarios de Tecnologia de la Informacion SL, Icon Integration, Icon Integration (NZ) Limited, Icon Integration Pty Ltd, Imagine Broadband (USA) Limited, Imagine Broadband USA LLC, Imaginea Inc, Imaginea Technologies LLC, Industrie IT (Hong Kong) Ltd, Industrie IT (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Industrie IT Group Pty Ltd, Industrie IT Pty Ltd, Industrie&Co, Infinity Works Consulting Limited, Infinity Works Holdings Limited, Infinity Works Management Limited, Infinity Works Midco Limited, Informatica de Euskadi S.L., Innotec International EAD, Innotec International S.p. z.o.o., Innotec Marketing GmbH, Innotec Marketing International Ireland Limited, Innotec- Marketing Spain S.L, Insitum Consultoria Argentina SRL, Insitum Consultoria S.A. de C.V., International Biometric Group LLC, International Biometric Group UK Limited, Intrepid, Intrepid Futureworks Sdn Bhd, Intrigo Systems Inc, Intrigo Systems India Pvt. Limited, Intrigo Systems LLC, Inventor Technology Ltd, InvestTech, Investtech Systems Consulting LLC, ItSafer Continuity Services S.L., JKD Consulting LLC, Javelin Group, K Comms Group Limited, KSC Studio LLC, Kaper Communications Limited, Karma Communications Debtco Limited, Karma Communications Group Limited, Karma Communications Holdings Limited, Karmarama, Karmarama Comms Limited, Karmarama Limited, King James Group, Knowledge Rules Inc., Knowledgent, Knowledgent Group LLC, Kogentix, Kogentix LLC, Kogentix Limited, Kogentix Singapore Pte Ltd, Kogentix Technologies Private Limited, Kolle Rebbe, Kolle Rebbe GmbH, Kream Comms Limited, Kunstmaan, Kurt Salmon, Kurt Salmon Canada LTD, Kurt Salmon US LLC, LEXTA, LINKBYNET, LINKBYNET Indian Ocean (L.I.O) Ltd, LabAnswer, Lexta GmbH, Lexta UK Limited, Lien par le reseau Inc, Lien par le reseau infrastructures Inc, Lin Bo (Shanghai) Network Technology Co. Ltd., Link By Net SAS, Link By Net SRL, Link By Net Vietnam Company Limited, Linkbynet East Asia Ltd, Linkbynet Singapore Pte Ltd., Loud & Clear Creative Pty Ltd, Lumenup S.A., MAXIM Systems Inc., MCG US Holdings LLC, Mackevision CG Technology and Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Mackevision Japan Co. Ltd., Mackevision Korea Ltd, Mackevision LLC, Mackevision Medien Design, Mackevision Medien Design GmbH, Mackevision Singapore Pte Ltd, Mackevision UK Limited, Maglan, Maglan Information Defense Technologies Research Ltd, Maihiro, Matter, Maud Corp Pty Ltd, Maxamine International, Measuretek LLC, Media Audits Ltd., Media Hive, Mediasenz Pty Ltd., Meredith Specialty LLC, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing, Meredith Xcelerated Marketing LLC, Meridian Informed Purchasing Ltd., Mindtribe, Mistral Wind Operations  Servicos Empresariais Unipessoal Lda., MobGen, Mortgage Cadence LLC, Mortgage Cadence an Accenture Company, Most Champion Ltd, Mudano, Mudano Limited, Myrtle Consulting Group LLC, N3, N3 (Dalian) Business Consulting Co. Ltd., N3 Brazil Consultoria em Marketing Ltda, N3 Germany GmbH, N3 LLC, N3 North America LLC, N3 Results Australia Pty Ltd, N3 Results Ireland Limited, N3 Results Japan G.K., N3 Results Limited, N3 Results Malaysia Sdn Bhd, N3 Results Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., N3 Results S.A.S., N3 Results Singapore Pte Ltd, N3 Results Unipessoal Lda, NYTEC, Nanjing Demeng Advertising Co. Ltd., Nashco Consulting, NaviSys Inc., Nell'Armonia Israel Ltd, Nell'Armonia SAS, Nell'Participation SAS, NellArmonia, Neo Metrics Analytics S.L., Neo Metrics Chile S.A., New Content, New Content Editora e Produtora Ltda, New Energy Group, News Imaging LLC, NewsPage, NewsPage (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, NewsPage Pte Ltd, Northstream, Novetta Holdings LLC, Novetta LLC, Novetta Solutions LLC, Novetta Topco LLC, OCTO Technology, OPS Rules Management Consultants, Octagon Research Solutions Inc., Octo Technology Pty Ltd, Octo Technology SA, Odgaard ApS, Olikka, Olikka Pty Ltd, Olympus Systems Corporation, Openmind, Openmind S.r..l., Openminded, Openminded SAS, Operaciones Accenture S.A. de C.V., OpusLine, Orbium, Orbium AG, Orbium Consulting Limited, Orbium Inc., Orbium Ltd, Orbium Pte Ltd, Orbium Pty Ltd, Origin Digital, PCO Innovation, PLM Systems S.r.l, PRION GmbH, PT Accenture, PT Asta Catur Indra, PT Kogentix Teknologi Indonesia, PacificLink Group, Paja Finanssipalvelut Oy, Parker Fitzgerald Inc, Parker Fitzgerald International Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Limited, Parker Fitzgerald PTY Ltd, Parker Fitzgerald Services Limited, Parker Fitzgerald Solutions Limited, Pecaso Ltd., Pegasus Production A/S, Pegasus Production K/S, Phase One Consulting Group, Pillar Technology, Pollux, Pollux Automation Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pollux Canada Inc, Pollux S.A.S., Pollux USA LLC, Pragsis Bidoop, Pragsis Bidoop UK Limited, Pramati Technologies Europe Limited, Pramati Technologies Private Limited, Presence of IT Workforce Management North America LLC, PrimeQ, PrimeQ Australia Pty Ltd, PrimeQ Ltd, PrimeQ NZ Pty Limited, Procurian Inc., Prof. Homburg GmbH, Proquire LLC, PureApps Ltd., Qi Jie Beijing Information Technologies Co. Ltd., RBCP Fund 1-A Vapor Blocker LLC, RBCP Platform Vapor Blocker I LLC, REPL Consulting LLC, REPL Consulting Limited, REPL Digital Limited, REPL Group K.K., REPL Group Pty Ltd, REPL Group Worldwide Limited, REPL Pte Ltd, REPL Software Limited, REPL Technology Limited, Radiant Services LLC, Random Walk Computing Inc., Reactive Media Pty Ltd., Real Protect, Realworld OO Systems Ltd., Redcore, Redcore (New Zealand) Limited, Redcore Group Holdings Pty Ltd, Redcore Pty Ltd, Revolutionary Security, RiskControl, Root LLC, Rothco, Rothco Limited, S3 TV Technology Ltd., SALT Solutions GmbH, SEC Servizi, SOPIA Corp., Sagacious Consultants, Salt Solutions, Sandbox Studio LLC, Sapling Bidco Limited, Sapling Midco Limited, Sapling Topco Limited, Schlumberger Business Consulting, Seabury Aviation & Aerospace (UK) Limited, Seabury Consulting, Seabury Corporate Advisors LLC, Seabury Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Search Technologies BPO Inc, Search Technologies International LLC, Search Technologies LLC, Search Technologies Limited, Securiview SAS, Sentelis, Sentor Managed Secuirty Services AB, Servicios Tecnicos de Programacion Accenture S.C., Seven Seas Business Ventures LLC, Shackleton, Shackleton Chile S.A., Shackleton S.L.U., Shanghai Baiyue Advertising Co. Ltd., Shun Zhe Technology Development Co. Ltd., SigInt Technologies LLC, Silveo, Silveo Consulting India Private Limited, Simian Pty Ltd, SinnerSchrader, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, SinnerSchrader Praha s.r.o., Sirvart S.A., Sistemes Consulting S.L., Skylink SAS, Soltians Limited, Solutions IQ LLC, SolutionsIQ, SolutionsIQ India Consulting Services Private Limited, Somers Ventures Ireland Limited, Somers Ventures LLC, Spacelink SAS, Storm Digital, Structure Consulting Group LLC, Sutter Mills, Synership LLC, Systor AG, T.A. Cook, TXF LLC, Tambourine, TargetST8, Tech - Avanade Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Tecnilogica Ecosistemas S.A., Tecnilogica, The Brand Learning Partners Limited, The Callisto Integration Corporation, The Monkeys, The Monkeys Pty Ltd, The Myrtle Group, Total Logistics, Tquila, Trivadis, Trivadis AG, Trivadis Austria GmbH, Trivadis Denmark AS, Trivadis Germany GmbH, Trivadis Holding AG, Trivadis Partner AG, Trivadis Services AG, Trivadis Services SRL, Troop Studios Pty Ltd, VanBerlo, Vector Acquisition Company LLC, Vector Topco LLC, Verax Solutions, Vertical Retail Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd, Vertical Retail Consulting Ltd, Vivere Brasil Servicos e Solucoes SA, Vivere Brasil Solucoes De Credito Ltda., Wabion GmbH, WaveStrike LLC, White Cliffs Consulting LLC, Wire Stone, Wire Stone LLC, Wise Partners SAS, Wolox, Wolox Colombia S.A.S, Wolox LLC, Wolox Mexico S.R.L de C.V., Wolox S.A., Wolox SpA, Workforce Insight, Workforce Insight LLC, Yesler, Yesler LLC, Yesler Limited, Yesler Singapore Pte Ltd, Zag, Zag Australia Pty Ltd, Zag Limited, Zag USA LLC, Zebra Worldwide Australia Pty Ltd, Zebra Worldwide Group Limited, Zebra Worldwide Media Pty Ltd, Zenta, Zenta Global Philippines Inc, Zenta Mortgage Services LLC, Zenta Recoveries Inc, Zenta US Holdings Inc, Zestgroup, Zielpuls, Zielpuls (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zielpuls GmbH, avVenta, designaffairs, designaffairs Business Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., designaffairs GmbH, designaffairs group China Co. Ltd., dgroup, i4C Analytics, iDefense, solid-serVision.com GmbH, and umlaut.

Read More
General Mills, Inc. manufactures and markets branded consumer foods worldwide. The company operates in five segments: North America Retail; Convenience Stores & Foodservice; Europe & Australia; Asia & Latin America; and Pet. It offers ready-to-eat cereals, refrigerated yogurt, soup, meal kits, refrigerated and frozen dough products, dessert and baking mixes, bakery flour, frozen pizza and pizza snacks, snack bars, fruit and salty snacks, ice cream, nutrition bars, wellness beverages, and savory and grain snacks, as well as various organic products, including frozen and shelf-stable vegetables. It also supplies branded and unbranded food products to the North American foodservice and commercial baking industries; and manufactures and markets pet food products, including dog and cat food. The company markets its products under the Annie's, Betty Crocker, Bisquick, Blue Buffalo, Blue Basics, Blue Freedom, Bugles, Cascadian Farm, Cheerios, Chex, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, Cookie Crisp, EPIC, Fiber One, Food Should Taste Good, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers, Fruit Roll-Ups, Gardetto's, Go-Gurt, Gold Medal, Golden Grahams, Haagen-Dazs, Helpers, Jus-Rol, Kitano, Kix, Larabar, Latina, Liberte, Lucky Charms, Muir Glen, Nature Valley, Oatmeal Crisp, Old El Paso, Oui, Pillsbury, Progresso, Raisin Nut Bran, Total, Totino's, Trix, Wanchai Ferry, Wheaties, Wilderness, Yoki, and Yoplait trademarks. It sells its products directly, as well as through broker and distribution arrangements to grocery stores, mass merchandisers, membership stores, natural food chains, e-commerce retailers, commercial and noncommercial foodservice distributors and operators, restaurants, convenience stores, and pet specialty stores, as well as drug, dollar, and discount chains. The company operates 466 leased and 392 franchise ice cream parlors. General Mills, Inc. was founded in 1866 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Extensive homework must before DPR study

Experts have advised to conduct extensive homework and consultations before starting the process of preparing a detailed project report (DPR) of the Saptakoshi High Dam.
Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the electric utility, banking, and renewable/sustainable infrastructure investment businesses in the state of Hawaii. It operates in three segments: Electric Utility, Bank, and Other. The Electric Utility segment engages in the production, purchase, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity in the islands of Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. Its renewable energy sources and potential sources include wind, solar, photovoltaic, geothermal, wave, hydroelectric, municipal waste, and other biofuels. This segment serves suburban communities, resorts, the United States armed forces installations, and agricultural operations. The Bank segment operates a community bank that offers banking and other financial services to consumers and businesses, including savings and checking accounts; and loans comprising residential and commercial real estate, residential mortgage, construction and development, multifamily residential and commercial real estate, consumer, and commercial loans. This segment operates 42 branches, including 29 branches in Oahu, 6 branches in Maui, 4 branches in Hawaii, 2 branches in Kauai, and 1 branch in Molokai. The Other segment invests in non-regulated renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure in the State of Hawaii. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. was incorporated in 1891 and is headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Invalid vote concerns

As polling for the third phase of local level elections takes place in Province 2 on Monday, there are concerns over the possibility of a high number of invalid votes, considering the scenario in the first two phases and the past records of void votes in the eight Tarai districts.
NOW Inc. distributes downstream energy and industrial products for petroleum refining, chemical processing, LNG terminals, power generation utilities, and industrial manufacturing operations in the United States, Canada, and internationally. The company offers its products under the DistributionNOW and DNOW brand names. It provides consumable maintenance, repair, and operating supplies; pipes, valves, fittings, flanges, gaskets, fasteners, electrical products, instrumentations, artificial lift, pumping solutions, valve actuation and modular process, and measurement and control equipment; and mill supplies, tools, safety supplies, and personal protective equipment, as well as applied products and applications, such as artificial lift systems, coatings, and miscellaneous expendable items. The company also offers original equipment manufacturer equipment, including pumps, generator sets, air and gas compressors, dryers, blowers, mixers, and valves; modular oil and gas tank battery solutions; and application systems, work processes, parts integration, optimization solutions, and after-sales support services. In addition, it provides supply chain and materials management solutions that include procurement, inventory planning and management, and warehouse management, as well as solutions for logistics, point-of-issue technology, project management, business process, and performance metrics reporting services. The company serves customers through a network of approximately 180 locations in the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors of the energy industry, including drilling contractors, well-servicing companies, independent and national oil and gas companies, midstream operators, and refineries, as well as petrochemical, chemical, utilities, and other downstream energy processors; and industrial and manufacturing companies. NOW Inc. was founded in 1862 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Mobile expos bloom in Kathmandu

As the festive season descends upon us, many of us are feeling the itch to spend our hard earned money.
Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. operates as bank holding company for the Prosperity Bank that provides financial products and services to businesses and consumers. It accepts various deposit products, such as demand, savings, money market, and time accounts, as well as and certificates of deposit. The company also offers 1-4 family residential mortgage, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, commercial and industrial, agricultural, and non-real estate agricultural loans, as well as construction, land development, and other land loans; consumer loans, including automobile, recreational vehicle, boat, home improvement, personal, and deposit account collateralized loans; and consumer durables and home equity loans, as well as loans for working capital, business expansion, and purchase of equipment and machinery. In addition, it provides internet banking, mobile banking, trust and wealth management, retail brokerage, mortgage services, and treasury management, as well as debit and credit cards. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated 273 full-service banking locations comprising 65 in the Houston area, including The Woodlands; 30 in the South Texas area including Corpus Christi and Victoria; 63 in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas area; 22 in the East Texas area; 29 in the Central Texas area, including Austin and San Antonio; 34 in the West Texas area, including Lubbock, Midland-Odessa and Abilene; 16 in the Bryan/College Station area; 6 in the Central Oklahoma area; and 8 in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area doing business as LegacyTexas Bank. Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. was founded in 1983 and is based in Houston, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of PPG Industries: AIPCF V Texstars Blocker Inc., AkzoNobel, Alpha Coating Technologies LLC, Alpha Coatings Inc., Broad Range Development Limited, CG Holdings Manufacturing Co., Centro de Investigacion en Polimeros S.A. de C.V., Chemfil Canada Limited, Chorlton Trade Paints Limited, Comercial Mexicana de Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Comex, Comex Industrial Coatings S.A. de C.V., Consorcio Comex S.A. de C.V., Cristacol S.A., Cuming Microwave Corporation, Deutek SA, Dexmet Corporation, Dexmet Holding Corporation, Distribuidora Kroma S.A. de C.V., EPIC Insurance Co. Ltd., Eberle Design Inc., Empresa Aga S.A. de C.V., Ennis Canadian Holding Company, Ennis Paint Canada ULC, Ennis Paint Netherlands Holdings LLC, Ennis Paint U.K. Holding Company Limited, Ennis Traffic Safety Solutions Pty Ltd, Ennis-Flint, Ennis-Flint Inc., Foshan Bairun Chemicals Co. Ltd., Fpu Industrial S.A. de C.V., Grupo Comex S.A. de C.V., Hemmelrath Automotive Coatings (Jilin) Co. Ltd., Hemmelrath International Trade (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Hodij Coatings B.V., Homax Products, Industria Chimica Reggiana I.C.R. SPA, Johnstones Paints Limited, Kalon Investment Company Limited, Kalon South Africa Proprietary Limited, Karl Woerwag Lack-und Farbenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG, Masterwork Paint, MetoKote Corporation, MetoKote Mexico Holdings Inc., MetoKote UK Limited, MetoKote de Mexico S. de RL de CV, Milamar Coatings LLC, OOO Tikkurila, PPG A P Resinas S.A. de C.V., PPG AC - France SA, PPG ALESCO Automotive Finishes Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PPG Aerospace Materials (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Architectural Coatings (Puerto Rico) Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Canada Inc./PPG Revetements Architecturaux Canada Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Ireland Limited, PPG Architectural Coatings Italy S.r.l, PPG Architectural Coatings UK Limited, PPG Architectural Finishes Inc., PPG Asian Paints Private Ltd., PPG Business Services S.A. de C.V., PPG COATINGS SINGAPORE PTE. LTD., PPG Canada Inc., PPG Cetelon Lackfabrik GmbH, PPG Cieszyn S.A., PPG Coatings (Hong Kong) Co. Limited, PPG Coatings (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., PPG Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Thailand) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Wuhu) Company Ltd., PPG Coatings (Zhangjiagang) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings B.V., PPG Coatings Belgium BV, PPG Coatings Danmark A/S, PPG Coatings Deutschland GmbH, PPG Coatings Europe B.V., PPG Coatings Nederland BV, PPG Coatings S.A., PPG Coatings South Africa (Pty) Ltd., PPG DYRUP S.A., PPG Deco Czech a.s., PPG Deco Polska sp. z.o.o., PPG Deco Slovakia s.r.o., PPG Deutschland Business Support GmbH, PPG Deutschland Sales & Services GmbH, PPG Distribution S.A.S., PPG Europe B.V., PPG Finance B.V., PPG Finland Oy, PPG France Business Support S.A.S., PPG France Manufacturing S.A.S., PPG Guadeloupe SAS, PPG Hemmelrath Lackfabrik GmbH, PPG Holdco SAS, PPG Holdings (U.K.) Limited, PPG Holdings Argentina USA LLC, PPG Holdings Latin America USA LLC, PPG Iberica S.A., PPG Iberica Sales & Services S.L., PPG Industrial Coatings B.V., PPG Industrial do Brasil - Tintas E. Vernizes - Ltda., PPG Industries (Korea) Ltd., PPG Industries (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., PPG Industries (UK) Ltd, PPG Industries Argentina S.R.L., PPG Industries Australia PTY Limited A.C.N. 055 500 939, PPG Industries Colombia Ltda., PPG Industries Delfzijl B.V., PPG Industries Europe Sarl, PPG Industries France S.A.S., PPG Industries International Inc., PPG Industries Italia S.r.l., PPG Industries Kimya a Sanayi VE Ticaret AS, PPG Industries LLC, PPG Industries Lackfabrik GmbH, PPG Industries Lipetsk LLC, PPG Industries Middle East FZE, PPG Industries Netherlands B.V., PPG Industries New Zealand Limited, PPG Industries Ohio Inc., PPG Industries Poland Sp. Z.o.o., PPG Industries Securities LLC, PPG Industries de Mexico S.A. de C.V., PPG Investment (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., PPG Italia Business Support S.r.l., PPG Italia Sales & Services S.r.l., PPG Japan Ltd., PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes Canada LP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.K. LLP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.S. LLC, PPG Luxembourg Finance S.aR.L., PPG Luxembourg Holdings S.aR.L., PPG Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Packaging Coatings (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Paints Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Performance Coatings (Hong Kong) Limited, PPG Powder Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Refinish Distribution Limited, PPG Romania S.A., PPG Reunion SAS, PPG SSC Co. Ltd., PPG Switzerland GmbH, PPG Trilak Korlatolt FelelosseguTarasasag (PPG Trilak Kft.), PPG Vietnam Co. Ltd., PRC-DeSoto Australia Pty Ltd., PRC-DeSoto International Inc., PT. PPG Coatings Indonesia, Painter's Supply, Paintzen, Peintures de Paris SAS, Plasticos Envolventes S.A. de C.V., Polymeric Systems Inc., ProCoatings B.V., ProCoatings BV, Protec Pty Ltd, Reno A&E LLC, Revocoat France SAS, Revocoat Holding SAS, Revocoat Iberica SLU, Revocoat S.A.S, Road Infrastructure Investment Holdings Inc., SEM Products Inc., Sealants Europe SAS, Sierracin Corporation, Sierracin/Sylmar Corporation, Sigma Marine & Protective Coatings Holding B.V., SigmaKalon (BC) UK Limited, SigmaKalon Group, Sikar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Spraylat International Ltd, Texstars LLC, The Crown Group Co., The Crown Group Inc, The Homax Group, Tikkurila Group, Tikkurila Oyj, Tikkurila Sverige AB, Traffic Safety Intermediate LLC, Traffic Safety Parent LLC, VF Specialty Products LLC, Vanex Inc., Vernisol S.p.A., VersaFlex Acquisition Corp., VersaFlex Inc., VersaFlex Intermediate Holdings LLC, Versaflex, Viasa S.A. de C.V., Whitford, Whitford B.V., Whitford Corporation, Whitford Jiangmen Ltd., Whitford Ltd. (HK), Whitford Ltd. (UK), Whitford Pte. Ltd., Whitford S.r.l., Whitford Worldwide Company LLC, and Worwag Coatings.

Read More
The following companies are subsidiares of Caterpillar: Advanced Tri-Gen Power Systems LLC, Anchor Coupling Inc., Asia Power Systems (Tianjin) Ltd., AsiaTrak (Tianjin) Ltd., Banco Caterpillar S.A., Berg Propulsion International Pte Ltd., Bucyrus, Bucyrus Australia Surface Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Holdings Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Limited, Bucyrus International (Chile) Limitada, Bucyrus International (Peru) S.A., Bucyrus Mining Australia Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Mining China LLC, Bucyrus UK Limited, Cat Rental Kyushu LLC, Caterpillar (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar (China) Financial Leasing Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Machinery Components Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (HK) Limited, Caterpillar (Huainan) Machinery Service Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Langfang) Mining Equipment Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Luxembourg) Investment Co. S.a r.l., Caterpillar (NI) Limited, Caterpillar (Newberry) LLC, Caterpillar (Qingzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Logistics Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar (U.K.) Limited, Caterpillar (Wujiang) Ltd., Caterpillar (Xuzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Zhengzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar Acquisition Holding Corp., Caterpillar Americas C.V., Caterpillar Americas Co., Caterpillar Americas Funding Inc., Caterpillar Americas Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Asia Limited, Caterpillar Asia Pacific L.P., Caterpillar Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Asset Intelligence LLC, Caterpillar Belgium S.A., Caterpillar Brasil Comercio de Maquinas e Pecas Ltda., Caterpillar Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Brazil LLC, Caterpillar Castings Kiel GmbH, Caterpillar Centro de Formacion S.L., Caterpillar China Limited, Caterpillar Commercial Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Commercial LLC, Caterpillar Commercial Northern Europe Limited, Caterpillar Commercial S.A., Caterpillar Commercial S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Commercial Services S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Communications LLC, Caterpillar Corporativo Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Cote DIvoire, Caterpillar Credito S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., Caterpillar DC Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Digital Services & Solutions SARL, Caterpillar Distribution International LLC, Caterpillar Distribution Services Europe B.V.B.A., Caterpillar East Real Estate Holding Ltd., Caterpillar Emissions Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Energy Solutions GmbH, Caterpillar Energy Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions S.A., Caterpillar Energy System Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Engine Systems Inc., Caterpillar Equipos Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Eurasia LLC, Caterpillar FS (QFC) LLC, Caterpillar Finance France S.A., Caterpillar Finance Kabushiki Kaisha, Caterpillar Financial Acquisition Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Aftermarket Solutions Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Australia Leasing Pty Limited, Caterpillar Financial Australia Limited, Caterpillar Financial Commercial Account Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Corporacion Financiera S.A. E.F.C., Caterpillar Financial Dealer Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Funding Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Caterpillar Financial Leasing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial New Zealand Limited, Caterpillar Financial Nordic Services AB, Caterpillar Financial Nova Scotia Corporation, Caterpillar Financial OOO, Caterpillar Financial Receivables Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Renting S.A., Caterpillar Financial SARL, Caterpillar Financial Services (Dubai) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services (Ireland) plc, Caterpillar Financial Services (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Argentina S.A., Caterpillar Financial Services Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Financial Services CR s.r.o., Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Services GmbH, Caterpillar Financial Services India Private Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Leasing ULC, Caterpillar Financial Services Limited Les Services Financiers Caterpillar Limitee, Caterpillar Financial Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Caterpillar Financial Services Netherlands B.V., Caterpillar Financial Services Norway AS, Caterpillar Financial Services Philippines Inc., Caterpillar Financial Services Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Financial Services South Africa (Pty) Limited, Caterpillar Financial UK Acquisition Funding Partners, Caterpillar Financial Ukraine LLC, Caterpillar Fluid Systems S.r.l., Caterpillar Fomento Comercial Ltda., Caterpillar Forest Products Inc., Caterpillar France S.A.S., Caterpillar GB L.L.C., Caterpillar Global Investments S.a r.l., Caterpillar Global Mining America LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Equipamentos De Mineracao do Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Expanded Products Pty Ltd, Caterpillar Global Mining Germany Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining HMS GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong AFC Manufacturing Holding Co. Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Global Mining SARL, Caterpillar Global Mining U.S. Parts LLC, Caterpillar Global Services LLC, Caterpillar Group Services S.A., Caterpillar Holding (France) S.A.S., Caterpillar Holding Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Holdings Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Hungary Components Manufacturing Ltd., Caterpillar Hydraulics Italia S.r.l., Caterpillar IPX LLC, Caterpillar IRB LLC, Caterpillar Impact Products Limited, Caterpillar India Private Limited, Caterpillar Industrial Inc., Caterpillar Industrias Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Industries (Pty) Ltd, Caterpillar Insurance Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Insurance Company, Caterpillar Insurance Holdings Inc., Caterpillar Insurance Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Finance Designated Activity Company, Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg I S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg II S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Product SARL, Caterpillar International Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Services del Peru S.A., Caterpillar Investment Limited, Caterpillar Investment One SARL, Caterpillar Investment Two SARL, Caterpillar Investments, Caterpillar Japan LLC, Caterpillar Latin America Services S.R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Panama S. de R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Servicios de Chile Limitada, Caterpillar Latin America Support Services S. DE R.L., Caterpillar Leasing (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar Leasing Chile S.A., Caterpillar Leasing GmbH (Leipzig), Caterpillar Leasing Operativo Limitada, Caterpillar Life Insurance Company, Caterpillar Logistics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Logistics (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Logistics Inc., Caterpillar Logistics ML Services France S.A.S., Caterpillar Logistics Services China Limited, Caterpillar Luxembourg Group S.ar.l., Caterpillar Luxembourg LLC, Caterpillar Luxembourg S.a r.l., Caterpillar Machinery Nantong Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asset Intelligence, Caterpillar Marine Power UK Limited, Caterpillar Marine Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Maroc SARL, Caterpillar Materiels Routiers SAS, Caterpillar Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Mexico S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Mining Canada ULC, Caterpillar Mining Chile Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Motoren (Guangdong) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Motoren GmbH & Co. KG, Caterpillar Motoren Henstedt-Ulzburg GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Rostock GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Verwaltungs-GmbH, Caterpillar Netherlands Holding B.V., Caterpillar North America C.V., Caterpillar Operator Training Ltd., Caterpillar Overseas Credit Corporation SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Investment Holding SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Limited, Caterpillar Overseas SARL, Caterpillar Panama Services S.A., Caterpillar Paving Products Inc., Caterpillar Paving Products Xuzhou Ltd., Caterpillar Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Power Generation Systems (Bangladesh) Limited, Caterpillar Power Generation Systems L.L.C., Caterpillar Power Systems Inc., Caterpillar Power Ventures International Ltd., Caterpillar Precision Seals Korea, Caterpillar Prodotti Stradali S.r.l., Caterpillar Product Services Corporation, Caterpillar Propulsion AB, Caterpillar Propulsion International Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Italy S.R.L., Caterpillar Propulsion Namibia (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar Propulsion Production AB, Caterpillar Propulsion Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Singapore Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar R&D Center (China) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe LLC, Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe Servicios S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Reman Powertrain Indiana LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Drivetrain LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Renting France S.A.S., Caterpillar Reynosa S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar SARL, Caterpillar Services Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Servicios Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Servizi Italia Srl, Caterpillar Shrewsbury Limited, Caterpillar Skinningrove Limited, Caterpillar Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd., Caterpillar Special Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Switchgear Americas LLC, Caterpillar Switchgear Holding Inc., Caterpillar Tianjin Ltd., Caterpillar Torreon S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Tosno L.L.C., Caterpillar Transmissions France S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Tunneling Canada Holdings Ltd., Caterpillar Tunnelling Canada Corporation, Caterpillar Tunnelling Europe Limited, Caterpillar UK Employee Trust Limited, Caterpillar UK Engines Company Limited, Caterpillar UK Group Limited, Caterpillar UK Holdings Limited, Caterpillar Undercarriage (Xuzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Underground Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Used Equipment Services Inc., Caterpillar Venture Capital Inc., Caterpillar Work Tools B.V., Caterpillar Work Tools Inc., Caterpillar World Trading Corporation, Caterpillar Xuzhou, Caterpillar of Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar of Canada Corporation, Caterpillar of Delaware Inc., Centre de Distribution de Wallonie SPRL, CleanAir Systems, Downer Freight Rail, ECM Railway Evolution Romania s.r.l., ECM S.p.A., EDC European Excavator Design Center GmbH, EMC Holding Corp., EMD International Holdings Inc., ERA Information & Entertainment (BVI) Limited, ERA Mining Machinery Limited, Electro-Motive Diesel Limited, Electro-Motive Locomotive Technologies LLC, Electro-Motive Technical Consulting Co. (Beijing) Ltd., Energy Services International Limited, Equipos de Acuna S.A. de C.V., Eurenov S.A.S., F. G. Wilson (Proprietary) Limited, F. Perkins Limited, FG Wilson (Engineering) Limited, GB Holdco (China) Inc., GFCM Comercial Mexico S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., GFCM Servicios S.A. de C.V., Gremada Industries - Assets, Hong Kong Siwei Holdings Limited, Inmobiliaria Conek S.A. de C.V., JCS Co., Kemper Valve & Fittings Corp., Leo Inc., Locomotive Demand Power Pty Ltd., Locomotoras Progress Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Lovat, M2M Data Corporation, MGE Equipamentos & Servicos Ferroviarios, MWM, MWM Austria GmbH, MWM Benelux B.V., MWM Energy Australia Pty Ltd, MWM France S.A.S, MWM Real Estate GmbH, MaK Americas Inc., MaK Americas Inc. (Canada), Magnum Power Products LLC, Marble, Maschinenbau Kiel GmbH, Mec-Track S.r.l., Metalmark Financial Services Limited, Motoren Steffens GmbH, Nippon Caterpillar LLC, P. T. Solar Services Indonesia, PT Caterpillar Finance Indonesia, PT. Bucyrus Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia Batam, PT. Caterpillar Remanufacturing Indonesia, Perkins Engines, Perkins Engines (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd, Perkins Engines Group Limited, Perkins Engines Inc., Perkins Group Limited, Perkins Holdings Limited LLC, Perkins India Private Limited, Perkins International Inc., Perkins Japan LLC, Perkins Limited, Perkins Machinery (Changshu) Co. Ltd., Perkins Motores do Brasil Ltda., Perkins Power Systems Technology (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Perkins Small Engines (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Perkins Small Engines LLC, Perkins Small Engines Limited, Perkins Technology Inc., Progress Metal Reclamation Company, Progress Rail Arabia Limited Company, Progress Rail Australia Pty Ltd, Progress Rail Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Equipamentos e Servicos Ferroviarios do Brasil Ltda., Progress Rail Equipment Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Holdings Inc., Progress Rail Innovations Private Limited, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems GmbH, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems S.r.l., Progress Rail International Corp., Progress Rail Leasing Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Progress Rail Locomotivas (do Brasil) Ltda., Progress Rail Locomotive Canada Co., Progress Rail Locomotive Chile SpA, Progress Rail Locomotive Inc., Progress Rail Maintenance de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Progress Rail Manufacturing Corporation, Progress Rail Raceland Corporation, Progress Rail Rocklin Corporation, Progress Rail SA Proprietary Limited, Progress Rail Services Corporation, Progress Rail Services Holdings Corp., Progress Rail Services LLC, Progress Rail Services UK Limited, Progress Rail Switching Services LLC, Progress Rail Transcanada Corporation, Progress Rail Welding Corporation, Progress Rail Wildwood LLC, Progress Rail de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pyroban Group, Pyroban Group, Pyrrha Investments B.V., Pyrrha Investments Limited, S&L Railroad LLC, SCM Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd., SPL Software Alliance LLC, Sabre Engines, Servicios de Turbinas Solar S. de R.L. de C.V., Shandong SEM Machinery Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines (Beijing) Trading Services Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines (Thailand) Ltd., Solar Turbines CIS Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Canada Ltd./Ltee., Solar Turbines Central Asia Limited Liability Partnership, Solar Turbines EAME s.r.o., Solar Turbines Egypt Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Europe S.A., Solar Turbines India Private Limited, Solar Turbines International Company, Solar Turbines Italy S.R.L., Solar Turbines Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Solar Turbines Middle East Limited, Solar Turbines New Zealand Limited, Solar Turbines Saudi Arabia Limited, Solar Turbines Services Company, Solar Turbines Services Nigeria Limited, Solar Turbines Services of Argentina S.R.L., Solar Turbines Switzerland Sagl, Solar Turbines Trinidad & Tobago Limited, Solar Turbines West-Africa SARL, Tangshan DBT Machinery Co. Ltd., Tecnologia Modificada S.A. de C.V., Towmotor Corporation, Traction & Mining Motor Repairs Pty Ltd, Turbinas Solar S.A. de C.V., Turbinas Solar de Colombia S.A., Turbinas Solar de Venezuela C.A., Turbo Tecnologia de Reparaciones S.A. de C.V., Turbomach, Turbomach Endustriyel Gaz Turbinleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited, Turbomach France SARL, Turbomach GmbH, Turbomach Netherlands B.V., Turbomach Pakistan (Private) Limited, Turbomach S.A. Unipersonal, Turbomach Sp. Z o.o., Turner Powertrain Systems Limited, UK Hose Assembly Limited, Underground Imaging Technologies Inc, United Industries LLC, VALA Inc., Vasky Energy Ltd., Wealdstone Engineering, Weir - Oil & Gas Division, West Virginia Auto Shredding Inc., Western Gear Machinery LLC, Wetland Sustainability Fund I LLC, Williams Technologies, Yard Club, Zhengzhou Siwei Mechanical and Electrical Equipment Sales Co. Ltd., and okyo Rental Ltd..

Read More
More Nepalis going abroad for employment

More than 1,750 Nepalis leave the country daily for foreign employment, according to a latest data available at the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE).
ServiceNow, Inc. provides enterprise cloud computing solutions that defines, structures, consolidates, manages, and automates services for enterprises worldwide. It operates the Now platform for workflow automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, performance analytics, electronic service catalogs and portals, configuration management systems, data benchmarking, encryption, and collaboration and development tools. The company also provides information technology (IT) service management applications; IT service management product suite for enterprise's employees, customers, and partners; IT business management product suite; IT operations management product that connects a customer's physical and cloud-based IT infrastructure; IT Asset Management to automate IT asset lifecycles; and security operations that connects with internal and third party. In addition, it offers governance, risk, and compliance product to manage risk and resilience; human resources, legal, and workplace service delivery products; safe workplace applications; customer service management product; and field service management applications. Further, it provides App Engine product; IntegrationHub enables application to extend workflows; and professional, industry solutions, and customer support services. It serves government, financial services, healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, IT services, technology, oil and gas, education, and consumer products through direct sales team and resale partners. It has a strategic partnership with Celonis to help customers identify and prioritize processes that are suitable for automation. The company was formerly known as Service-now.com and changed its name to ServiceNow, Inc. in May 2012. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. manufactures, and distributes life science research and clinical diagnostic products in the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada, and Latin America. The company operates through Life Science and Clinical Diagnostics segments. The Life Science segment develops, manufactures, and markets a range of reagents, apparatus, and laboratory instruments that are used in research techniques, biopharmaceutical production processes, and food testing regimes. It focuses on selected segments of the life sciences market in proteomics, genomics, biopharmaceutical production, cellular biology, and food safety. This segment serves universities and medical schools, industrial research organizations, government agencies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology researchers, food producers, and food testing laboratories. The Clinical Diagnostics segment designs, manufactures, sells, and supports test systems, informatics systems, test kits, and specialized quality controls for clinical laboratories in the diagnostics market. This segment offers reagents, instruments, and software, which address specific niches within the in vitro diagnostics test market. It sells its products to reference laboratories, hospital laboratories, state newborn screening facilities, physicians' office laboratories, and transfusion laboratories. In addition, the company offers products and systems to separate complex chemical and biological materials, as well as to identify, analyze, and purify components. The company offers its products through its direct sales force, as well as through distributors, agents, brokers, and resellers. Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. was founded in 1952 and is headquartered in Hercules, California.
NC, UML cadres clash

The activists of Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML clashed at Aukara in Nagarain Municipality-8, Dhanusha, on Saturday night.
The Travelers Companies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United states and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance. The Business Insurance segment offers workers' compensation, commercial automobile and property, general liability, commercial multi-peril, employers' liability, public and product liability, professional indemnity, marine, aviation, onshore and offshore energy, construction, terrorism, personal accident, and kidnap and ransom insurance products. This segment operates through select accounts, which serve small businesses; commercial accounts that serve mid-sized businesses; national accounts, which serve large companies; and national property and other that serve large and mid-sized customers, commercial trucking industry, and agricultural businesses, as well as markets and distributes its products through brokers, wholesale agents, and program managers. The Bond & Specialty Insurance segment provides surety, fidelity, management and professional liability, and other property and casualty coverages and related risk management services through independent agencies and brokers. The Personal Insurance segment offers property and casualty insurance covering personal risks, primarily automobile and homeowners insurance to individuals through independent agencies and brokers. The Travelers Companies, Inc. was founded in 1853 and is based in New York, New York.
NextEra Energy, Inc. is the largest electric utility holding company in the US. It operates a network of power generation and distribution facilities that include fossil-fuel-generated and green energy. As of mid-2022, the company was capable of generating 58 GW of electricity with nearly 60% of the load produced by green sources including wind and solar. In their view, going green isnt an option, its the solution. NextEra Energy has been recognized multiple times as a leader in clean energy and ESG practices and was ranked the #1 electric and gas utility on the Forbes list of Most Admired Companies.

The company is the result of several mergers that begin with FPL Group. FPL Group is now a subsidiary of NextEra Energy and the third-largest provider of electricity in the US servicing nearly half of Florida. FPL and its affiliates are the single largest provider of renewable energy generated from wind and sun. The group changed its name in 2010 following a decision to shift focus onto renewable energy sources.

Today, NextEra Energy, Inc through its subsidiary FPL serves about 12 million people in eastern and southwestern Florida. The company employs nearly 14,900 people who service 5.8 million accounts. The company is in business to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity to retail and wholesale clients. Electricity is generated through wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas, and coal-fired facilities.

The company is also engaged in the construction and operation of new facilities, specifically renewable power generation, storage, and delivery facilities, and can offer custom solutions tailored to any need. Offerings include tailored services to assist businesses with their transition to clean energy.

NextEra Energy also owns and operates 7 nuclear power stations in Florida, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin generating power for the wholesale market.

Unlike other companies that are targeting net-zero emissions, NextEra Energy has a plan to reach real zero and is investing heavily to reach that goal by 2045. The company had invested nearly $50 billion in green energy infrastructure and initiatives by mid-2022. The plan is to first work on reducing its own emissions and then take its knowledge and expertise to the world.
Watts Water Technologies, Inc. designs, manufactures, and sells products, solution, and systems that manage and conserve the flow of fluids and energy into, through and out of buildings in the commercial and residential markets in the Americas, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. The company offers residential and commercial flow control products, including backflow preventers, water pressure regulators, temperature and pressure relief valves, and thermostatic mixing valves. It also provides heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and gas products, such as boilers, water heaters, custom heat, and hot water solutions; hydronic and electric heating systems for under-floor radiant applications; custom heat and hot water solutions; hydronic pump groups for boiler manufacturers and alternative energy control packages; and flexible stainless steel connectors for natural and liquid propane gas in commercial food service and residential applications. In addition, the company offers drainage and water re-use products comprising drainage products and engineered rain water harvesting solutions for commercial, industrial, marine, and residential applications; and water quality products that include point-of-use and point-of-entry water filtration, conditioning, and scale prevention systems for commercial and residential applications. Further, it provides smart mixing system under the IntelliStation name. The company sells its products to plumbing, heating, and mechanical wholesale distributors and dealers, as well as original equipment manufacturers, specialty product distributors, do-it-yourself chains, and retail chains; and directly to wholesalers and private label accounts. Watts Water Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1874 and is headquartered in North Andover, Massachusetts.
Williams-Sonoma, Inc. operates as an omni-channel specialty retailer of various products for home. It offers cooking, dining, and entertaining products, such as cookware, tools, electrics, cutlery, tabletop and bar, outdoor, furniture, and a library of cookbooks under the Williams Sonoma Home brand, as well as home furnishings and decorative accessories under the Williams Sonoma lifestyle brand; and furniture, bedding, lighting, rugs, table essentials, and decorative accessories under the Pottery Barn brand. The company also provides home decor products under the West Elm brand; kids accessories under the Pottery Barn Kids brand; and an organic bedding to multi-purpose furniture under the Pottery Barn Teen brand. In addition, it offers made-to-order lighting, hardware, furniture, and home decors inspired by history under the Rejuvenation brand; and women's and men's accessories, travel, entertaining and bar, home decor, and seasonal items under the Mark and Graham brand, as well as operates a 3-D imaging and augmented reality platform for the home furnishings and decor industry. The company markets its products through e-commerce websites, direct-mail catalogs, and retail stores. It operates 544 stores comprising 502 stores in 41states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico; 20 stores in Canada; 19 stores in Australia; 3 stores in the United Kingdom; and 139 franchised stores, as well as e-commerce websites in various countries in the Middle East, the Philippines, Mexico, South Korea, and India. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. was founded in 1956 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.
NOC Chief Khadka gets the boot

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) Chief Gopal Bahadur Khadka, who has been embroiled in many controversies including NOC's land acquisition deal, has been sacked on Monday.
PM thanks all for peaceful polls in Province No. 2

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has extended thanks to all for peaceful elections in the Province-2 held on Monday.
President urges people to vote

President Bidya Devi Bhandari has appealed to the people to make the third phase of local level elections in Province 2 a success with broad participation.
Prithvi Man Shrestha is a political reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering the governance-related issues including corruption and irregularities in the government machinery. Before joining The Kathmandu Post in 2009, he worked at nepalnews.com and Rising Nepal primarily covering the issues of political and economic affairs for three years.
Google is the latest company looking to enter Indias attractive mobile payments sector.

The US tech giant has revealed its India-only mobile app Tez, abandoning the branding of its Android Pay service that has seen success in other markets. Tez uses the Indian governments standard interface, the UPI, which will enable compatibility with a large number of the payment services currently offered in India.

Tez does also function with both Android and iOS devices. It enables person-to-person digital cash transfers as well as acting as a debit card to pay for products in shops. In addition, Google has signed deals with the National Payments Corporation of India and three major Indian banks - Axis, HDFC, ICICI  to help boost the services footprint, with the State Bank of India also slated for an agreement.

Caesar Sengupta, Google VP for its Next Billion Users Team, said to make digital payments truly work for India, we need a product that can compete with cash. It needs to be simple, affordable, and work everywhere and for everyone, adding that Tez was just one step in a long and important journey towards enabling a cashless India  a crucial component of a Digital India.

Google noted that over the next weeks and months it would reveal new wallet functionality, along with planned credit services. Tez will be available to download, and will also come pre-installed on selected handsets from manufacturers including Lava, Micromax, Nokia and Panasonic.

The launch of Tez places Google firmly in competition in Indias already crowded financial space. Alongside operators mobile wallet offerings, e-commerce firms and traditional finance institutions, Google will also face competition from specialists such as Paytm, which boasts over 200 million users. In addition to these rivals, OTT apps are now moving into the space, with chat app Hike allowing its 100 million users to make financial transactions via an update in June. WhatsApp, which has over 200 million users, is also believed to be readying a similar service.

Companies are looking to carve out a share of Indias digital payments market as the government is placing increased emphasis on its Digital India push, which aims to reduce the importance of cash to the countrys economy.
Generic pharmaceutical products manufacturer Beximco Pharmaceuticals announced on Monday that it has commenced the export of Olopatadine, an ophthalmic product for treating the symptoms of eye allergy, to Canada.

The AIM-traded firm said it followed the approval of Olopatadine 0.1% solution by Health Canada in October 2016, and was the first time a pharmaceutical product from Bangladesh has been launched in the North American country.

According to IMS data, the current market size for Olopatadine eye drops - including all strengths - in Canada is $14m.

The first consignment was delivered on 16 September, and the product would be distributed through the company's existing partner in Canada.

Beximco Pharma's second prescription product for the Canadian market was currently under evaluation by Health Canada, the board added, with approval expected by the first quarter of 2018.

There were also a number of products in the R&D pipeline which the company said it expected to file in Canada.

Entry into the Canadian pharmaceutical market, following the successful launch of our first product in the US last year, is a significant step forward in strengthening our presence in North America, said Beximco managing director Nazmul Hassan.

This is the first time a pharmaceutical product manufactured in Bangladesh, notably a sterile ophthalmic product, has been exported to Canada.

Hassan said the launch of Beximcos second product in North America was another validation of the firms strength in offering specialised generic products in a global setting.

We continue to focus on building a strong pipeline for prescription markets.
Coming just days before the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (Ceta), an agreement between the EU and Canada that took seven years to negotiate, is enacted on 21 September, the PM was hoping to use her trip to discuss the potential of Downing Street using Ceta as a model for a bilateral trade deal with Canada after Britain leaves the EU in March 2019.

May and Trudeau were expected to establish a new joint committee aimed at laying the groundwork for a separate deal between the two.

Under EU laws, the UK was prohibited from sealing a foreign trade agreement until such a time as it finalises its exit from the bloc, so instead has set up 'working groups' overseas in nations such as Japan and the US, as well as one with yet another Commonwealth partner in Australia.

The bilateral trade relationship is currently worth 15.2bn annually to both economies, with 1.75bn of Canadian money having been invested in the UK since March 2017 and more than 10,000 UK companies exporting goods to Canada, the government said.

Ahead of the visit, May said, "When we come together and work as one to protect our shared values on the world stage, we form a powerful union."

"My visit to Canada today is not only about recognising our past but also looking ahead to our bright future."

She highlighted a "long shared history" between the two nations, before adding, "We celebrate together our shared monarchy and close ties of family and friendship."

May's trip is expected to include the agreeing of several deal, including the expansion of Tescos product range to 100 supermarkets in Canada's West Coast by the end of this year, the 34m contract won by Leeds-based Turner and Townsend to oversee refurbishment of part of the Canadian Parliament, and the expansion of Vancouver-based social media company Hootsuite in London.
News channel Al Jazeera has had its channel blocked on picture messaging app Snapchat in Saudi Arabia , after a government request.

The social media company said it was asked by Saudi authorities to pull the channel, on the grounds that it was breaking laws related to published material and cyber crime.

The Qatari-backed broadcaster has been caught up in a dispute in the Middle East in which Saudi Arabia and its allies have cut ties with the state, accusing it of funding terrorism.

In a list of 13 demands sent to Qatar earlier this year, Saudi, Bahrain, Egypt and the UAE ordered the channel to be shut down completely.

We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate, Snap said in a statement.

Al Jazeera responded to the removal of its channel by describing the action as alarming and worrying.

The networks acting director general Mostefa Souag said the move was an attack against press freedom.

"This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they don't agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms and content distribution companies," Souag said.

"This step is a clear attack on the rights of journalists and media professionals to report and cover stories freely from around the world," he added.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announced on Monday that the nation's Supreme Court had ruled to suspend the Kurdish independence referendum originally set for 25 September until it had made a final ruling on the potential "dangerous consequences" arising from the result.

Al-Abadi said he had formally demanded Kurdistan's succession vote be suspended due to concerns from Western powers and its regional neighbours, such as Turkey and Iran, that the referendum could undermine ongoing campaigns against IS militants.

The Kurdish leadership in northern Iraq showed no intention of calling off the vote, despite warnings of unspecified consequences from Iran, as it voted on Friday to back the referendum on its original date.

Kurdistan claimed it had given the "New Iraq" ample opportunity to show it could work for all Iraqis, including Kurds, since its establishment after the US-led invasion in 2003 brought about the fall of the previous regime fronted by Saddam Hussein.

The Iraqi PM claimed the referendum was in violation of the Iraqi constitution, but Kurdish officials accused Baghdad of having violated more than one-third of the constitution, including article 140 which concerns the fate of disputed areas such as Kirkuk, as well as the government's decision to cut its share of the country's budget in early 2014 following the region's decision to export its oil to the outside world without Baghdad's consent.

"What constitutional article gave you the right to cut the bread of Kurdistan? What constitutional article gave you the right to violate and ignore Article 140?" Kurdish President Masoud Barzani asked when discussing how Baghdad had denied the Peshmerga their share of the budget.

"It is a shame for them to mention the constitution," said Barzani, before stating "every step they took was in violation of the constitution."

While the court order bears significant legal weight, it can not be implemented in practice due to the Kurdistan region having its own police force and government.

The United Nations, the US, Britain and France renewed their rejection of the vote over the weekend, calling on Erbil to resolve land and power-sharing disputes directly with Baghdad.

"All outstanding issues between the Federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government should be resolved through structured dialogue and constructive compromise," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Sunday.
Voter dies after casting vote in Dhanusha

A voter died while returning home after casting ballot in Dhanusha district on Monday.
US President Donald Trump has implored the United Nations to ditch bureaucracy in order to maximise its potential.

Making a speech ahead of his first appearance at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, Trump also said that it was unfair that the US pays 28.5% of the organisations peacekeeping bill.

"It has not reached its potential because of the bureaucracy and mismanagement," Trump told those in attendance at UN headquarters in New York..

"Focus more on people, less on bureaucracy," Trump added.

The former reality television host said the UN should abandon its 'business-as-usual' approach, and called on member states to take a bold stand against its current operations.

Trump repeatedly criticised the UN during his presidential campaign, commenting on the bodys 'utter weakness and incompetence' ahead of his election victory last year.

All eyes will be on the US President on Tuesday as he makes his first address to UN delegates, particularly after a turbulent few months in which the nuclear threat from North Korea has increased significantly.

Trump has talked tough on Pyongyang in recent weeks, promising to bring fire and fury if Kim Jong-uns regime steps out of line with its missile tests.
Boris Johnson has come under fire after a 4,000-word opus on a post-Brexit utopia penned by the Foreign Secretary was published on Friday evening, throwing him firmly back into the Brexit fray.

The timing of Johnson's letter was considered to be quite questionable as it came just seven days before the Prime Minister was set to outline her own vision for Britain's divorce from the UK, and just hours after she had raised the nation's threat level following another alleged terrorist incident in London.

Sir David Norgrove, head of the UK's Statistics Authority, lambasted Johnson for his reiteration of the claim that the UK would benefit to the tune of 350m per week after leaving the EU, leading to a tete-a-tete of sorts between the pair.

Johnson retaliated by saying Norgrove was guilty of "willful distortion of my article," claiming he had misrepresented him and demanded his comments be withdrawn.

Despite Minister for the Cabinet Office Damian Green saying Boris' comments would not cost him his job, his manifesto still generated a considerable backlash as accusations of him undermining the Prime Minister swirled.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd accused him of "backseat driving", Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson suggested lawmakers should be focused on "service" after the incident at Parsons Green, allies of Michael Gove denied the Secretary of Environment had any prior knowledge of Jonson's intention to publish his statement despite claims he was supportive of the decision, the UK's statistics watchdog accused him of a "clear misuse of official statistics", and several unnamed Tory lawmakers told the Mail on Sunday and the Observer they believed the former Mayor of London should be ousted from the Cabinet.

A senior Whitehall official told the Guardian that Johnson's manifesto would create further difficulties for the Department for Exiting the European Union (DExEU), and also claimed it would make Theresa May's attempts at striking the right tone at her upcoming major speech to be delivered in Florence on Friday.

In an effort to rectify some of the damage done, Johnson then took to Twitter in an effort to prove he was still a team player:

Looking forward to PM's Florence speech. All behind Theresa for a glorious Brexit: https://t.co/5pe1pY2m13  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) September 16, 2017

Despite some anger from Cabinet colleagues, one of which accused Boris of putting his "personal ambition before the interests of the country," Downing Street insisted that Johnson had not contradicted government policy, although there was some irritation he had not cleared the article before its publication on Friday.
BAE Systems will assemble 24 Typhoon fighter jets to be supplied to Qatar after Defence Secretary Michael Fallon signed a first major arms deal with the Gulf state.

The Typhoon deal is estimated to be worth at least 2bn across the four-nation consortium behind the Eurofighter and shares in BAE flew almost 3% higher to 612.5p on Monday morning.

Fallon, who flew to Doha where counterpart Khalid bin Mohammed al Attiyah signed an agreement to purchase the aircraft, said negotiations had taken a number of years.

"This will be the first major defence contract with Qatar, one of the UKs strategic partners," he said.

Qatar has been somewhat of a Gulf pariah since a spat blew up in June when Saudi Arabia led other neighbouring states including United Arab Emirates and Egypt in cutting diplomatic ties, purportedly over protecting themselves from terrorism and extremism.

So far there, eight countries have bought Eurofighter jets, the Ministry of Defence said, including 72 supplied to Saudi Arabia, 18 to Oman and 28 agreed for Kuwait, which will be assembled in Italy as the order was won by Italy's Leonardo.

BAE produces close to 38% of the components in each Typhoon aircraft, the largest share of the consortium between the UK, Germany, Italy and Spain.

In a Sunday announcement Fallon said: "This is an important moment in our defence relationship and the basis for even closer defence co-operation between our two countries.

"We also hope that this will help enhance security within the region across all Gulf allies and enhance Typhoon interoperability across the GCC."

Saudi Arabia closed the border and halted air and sea traffic with Qatar in June, urging "all brotherly countries and companies to do the same".

Bahrain, UAE and Egypt joined Saudi in giving the oil and gas-rich nation a deadline comply with a list of 13 demands based around allegations that it had been funding terrorism.

In August the crisis deepened further when Qatar subbed Saudi by restoring full diplomatic relations with Iran after a 20-month hiatus sparked when two Saudi diplomatic buildings were attacked.
UK carrier Monarch Airlines were said to be in the process of a radical overhaul of its business strategy as it held discussions with regulators regarding the annual extension of its tour operators licence.

SkyNews claimed that Monarch was in the process of working out sale and restructuring options to its short-haul business with KPMG for a joint venture or feeder deal with another airline before the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had completed its annual review of the package holiday providers Air Travel Organiser's Licence (ATOL) at the end of September.

A spokesman for Monarch said, "In recent months we have undertaken, and continue to undertake, a comprehensive review of Monarch designed to determine its optimal future shape, size and strategy.

"We are having regular discussions on a number of options with potential strategic partners and we will announce any material developments, if and when they happen."

The overhaul comes just one year after the airline was the subject of a 165m rescue package lead by Greybull Capital, its controlling shareholder, and Boeing.

While denying the whole company, which employs 2,500 people, was up for sale, Easyjet and Jet2 were pegged as likely candidates to acquire or enter into a joint venture with Monarch.

Monarch's last financial statements showed losses of 317m, mostly due to aircraft leasing contracts, and was expected to lose money in 2017 after terrorist attacks in key European markets had created difficult trading conditions for the holiday maker.
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Sunday that the US was aiming for a peaceful resolution to its nuclear stalemate with North Korea, but reiterated it was prepared to take military action if diplomatic efforts fell short.

"If our diplomatic efforts fail, though, our military option will be the only one left," Tillerson told CBS. "But be clear: we seek a peaceful solution to this."

Tillerson said the White House's strategy was to pursue a "peaceful pressure campaign" focused on what he referred to as the four "nos."

He said the US was not looking for regime-change or collapse in North Korea, a sped up re-unification of the Korean Peninsula, or a reason to send in military forces.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who Donald Trump contemptuously referred to as "rocket man" over the weekend, has continued to progress in his nuclear programme despite the UN passing two new sets of sanctions against the hermit kingdom in 2016.

I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 17, 2017

America's ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley told CNN on Sunday that the incumbent Workers Party of Korea was "already starting to feel the pinch" from the most recent set of sanctions set against Pyongyang on 11 September.

"We have economically strangled North Korea at this point, and they have said as much," she said.

Also on Sunday, National Security adviser HR McMaster expressed doubts as to whether or not economic measures would be a sufficient deterrent to the regime's attempts at nuclear stockpiling; telling the ABC the US had been forced to "make sure all options are under development."

McMaster said the Oval Office would not tolerate further threats from Pyongyang, saying the President would be left with no choice but to strike first if North Korea did not relinquish its weapons. "He's been very clear about that, that all options are on the table," McMaster said.

Haley vehemently claimed that Trump's "fire and fury" comments were not an empty threat, before saying that she would be "perfectly happy" to see Defence Secretary James Mattis proceed with military measures if diplomatic efforts were to fail.

"We were being responsible by trying to use every diplomatic possibility that we could possibly do," Haley said. "We have pretty much exhausted all the things that we could do at the Security Council at this point."

"If the United States has to defend itself or defend its allies in any way, North Korea will be destroyed," she said.

Tillerson also noted that China, North Korea's main supplier of oil products, could aid the process by exerting stronger pressure against the rogue state by cutting those supplies off altogether, and that Russia could assist by ceasing employment of the 30,000 North Korean guest workers within its borders that send their salary back home in an effort to prop up the economy.
US tech giants Google and Facebook 's domination of the digital advertising market is expected to result in the pair taking 54% of UK advertising revenues in 2017.

Google is the largest player in terms of digital ad revenue with a figure of 4.43bn forecast to be taken in in 2017, eMarketer said on Monday.

By 2019, the Alphabet-owned firm is expected to see that revenue grow to over 5bn.

Facebook was the next highest earner for digital ad revenues, as it capitalised on successes with its Instagram platform and is projected to take in 1.87bn this year.

With the total spend on digital ads in the UK standing at 10.89bn this year, that leaves the two US firms as controlling over half the market between them.

This is lower than the 75% of all US new digital ad spending sewn up by the pair in 2015, as has previously been calculated, and lower than their US digital share of 60% that eMarketer forecasts.

There have been signs of tough times ahead for the UK ad industry, eMarketer senior analyst Bill Fisher said.

Despite uncertainty around Brexit and struggles among some of the big agencies, digital continues to attract ad spending, with Google and Facebook the biggest beneficiaries. That theyre attracting such spend is perhaps a symptom of the wider market concerns, with brands looking to get the biggest reach for their bucksomething that Google and Facebook clearly offer.

When WPP recently warned on profits, boss Sir Martin Sorrell said that the digital duopoly were the traditional ad giant's first and third largest media investments, sandwiching The Times and Sun publisher News Corp, with Facebook potentially moving higher this year.

"Google ranks number one in terms of the destinations of our media investments. Facebook ranks third (but) may this year actually become second," he said.
World Bank revises Nepals growth forecast downwards to 4.5pc

The World Bank (WB) has revised Nepals economic growth forecast for the current fiscal year downwards to 4.5 percent (at basic and market prices) stating floods will hit agricultural output, which makes a big contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP).
The world is now closer to receiving a real Tesla competitor with Porsche announcing the date and pricing for the production version of its Mission E electric supercar.

The concept which was revealed two years ago was designed to showcase the German automakers E-Performance line which focuses on making their future range of hybrid and full electric cars move with haste and efficiency.

Fast forward to this years Frankfurt Auto Show and Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has told Car Magazine that public trials of the car will be happening soon whilst the final production model is very close to completion.

The juicy news though? Blume is expecting the Mission E to arrive at the end of 2019 with a price tag from just US$85,000 (AU$106,000 before adjustments).

That still puts it a step ahead of the Tesla Model S in terms of pricing (Tesla Model S 100D starts from $94,000 in the U.S), but what youre getting is proven German engineering with an illustrious track record across various motorsport disciplines. In other words its the kind of reputation which will ensure the Mission E can corner and sprint from 0-100km/h in under 3.5 seconds via a 440kW (600hp) electric motor.

Porsche have also tinkered with the battery pack to include shorter charging times without sacrificing the feel of a lightweight sportscar. As such, drivers can expect a range of more than 500km on a single charge whilst the cars 350kW fast-charging system can charge the battery up to 80 percent (roughly 400km range) in just 15 minutes.

Well bring you more news as it arrives.
As Climate Week begins in New York, a lot of the world is asking Americans, How are you doing at making climate progress with a climate denying president?

The surprising answer is, Not well enough yet, but much better than you imagine.

The American political conversation about climate is, indeed, scary and depressing. But the decarbonization of the real U.S. economyas opposed to the cardboard, fossil fuel-handicapped White House versioncontinues. Indeed, decarbonization is accelerating, giving me confidence that in a year or so it will be clear to everyone that the U.S. is on track to meet and perhaps exceed its (inadequate) 2025 Paris objective, cutting emissions 26 to 28 percent.

That goal requires reducing emissions by 1800 million tons of CO2. At the end of 2016 the U.S. was almost halfwayemissions down 850 million tons, 13 percent. This progress was led by the utility sector, where efficiency, renewables and natural were replacing coal so fast that power sector carbon was down 25 percent.

The world rightfully worries when they hear Donald Trump proclaim he is going to bring back coal, and watch the administration and the Republican Congress try to roll-back such common sense requirements limits on the wasteful flaring and leaking of methane from oil and gas fields.

But Trumps promise to have America withdraw from the Paris climate agreement has sparked a stunning wave of climate leadership from U.S. cities, states and businesses, a wave that is still building, but by the time it crests may more than make up for Trumps stubborn foot-dragging.

Lets begin with bringing back coal. Since Trump was elected, no new coal plants have been announced or opened; 10 plants with 5600 megawatts instead have announced they will shut down. West Virginias largest utility wont expand coal generation because it cant find customers for coal power; CSX, a leading coal hauling railroad, thinks coal is going away so fast that it has stopped replacing coal rail cars.

Now the Sierra Club has estimated that additional coal plants whose retirement have already been announced would cut emissions about 160 million tons. Closing vulnerable plants, facilities that no longer make economic sense to keep operating, could avoid another 275 million tons. If present trends continue, the Sierra Club also documented that the U.S. could triple renewable electricity; overall the utility sector should be emitting 500 million tons less of carbon in 2025 than it was just last year.

While coal fades, state governments representing almost 60 percent of the American economy are racing forward. In January, California released its plan to cut its emissions by 40 percent by 2030, and went on to extend its cap and trade program for another decade, until 2030this time with support for the first time from the oil industry! California is also on the verge of requiring 100 percent of its power to come from renewables. Overall, a dozen states are debating increasing their reliance on renewable power. Maryland just established a 25 percent renewable power goal, overriding the veto of a Republican governor. (The Nevada legislature went for 40 percent, but has not yet been able to overturn a similar veto.)

The fifteen early adaptor states in the Climate Alliance will report this week that they are already on track to reduce their 2025 emissions by 24 to 29 percent. And some of Americas most Republican, climate skeptical statesOklahoma, Kansas, North Dakota and even Texas, are steadily replacing coal with renewablesfor economic reasons. These dont usually get counted in reporting on bottom up climate actionbut they have a huge positive impact on emissions.

Whether their state legislatures and governors are leading on climate or not, Americas cities, where most of our climate pollution originates, are embracing a decarbonized future. In June, when Trump promised to pull out of the Paris agreement, 125 cities told the world, We are still in the Paris agreement. Today, only three months later, the number has ballooned to 238. The U.S. Conference of Mayors, representing more than 1000 of Americas largest cities, voted unanimously to endorse the goal of 100 percent renewable powerand since Trumps election, the number of U.S. cities with 100 percent policies has mushroomedmore than 40 cities are now committed individually, and five have hit that target!

But government is not alone. The private sector, where companies are increasingly competing with each other to succeed in the carbon-free economy of the future, is making Trumps climate-denial braggadocio increasingly irrelevant. The Mars Candy Company recently committed a billion dollars to ensure that its operations and supply chain would reduce their climate impact by 67 percent by 2050. The number of companies who have signed the pledge of support for the Paris agreement has almost doubled, from 906 in June to 1729 this week. And global firms will impact the U.S. climate footprint. VW announced a few days ago that it will offer electric versions of all its modelsentering the competition against current global EV leader, U.S. based Tesla, which delivered its first Model 3 in July.

It is true, the Trump administration is struggling to hold back the future, with appalling decisions like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPAs) recent announcement that it would delay cleaning up toxic water pollution from coal power plants for two years. But the courts are steadily shredding much of this; the conservative 10th Circuit just ruled that Trump must consider climate impacts before issuing new coal leases on federal lands. As the CEO of one of Americas historically coal dependent utilities, Southern Company, Tom Fanning said, You cant keep waves off the beach. King Canute knew this. And the decarbonization of the American economythe real economy, not the fake news economyshows its still true. The world can see and measureAmerica is still in.
By Andy Rowell

You would have thought that after being battered by two devastating hurricanes in recent weeks, which experts believe were fueled by warmer seas caused by climate change, even the most die-hard climate denier would think again.

But you would be wrong.

You would have thought that as the cost of rebuilding after Hurricanes Irma and Harvey mounts, with an estimated bill of $150 billion so far, that politicians would press to move away from a fossil fuel economy.

But you would be wrong again. In fact the opposite is happening.

Instead of pushing for clean technology and to end our oil addiction, the Trump administration is quietly pushing to open up one of Americas great last wilderness areas, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, to oil drilling.

The Arctic National Wildlife Refugeor ANWR for shorthas been described as one of the largest intact ecosystems in the world, and the crown jewel of the National Wildlife Refuge System and one of the most important protected areas on Earth.

Anyone who knows about contemporary American petro-politics will know that the fight over ANWR is not new. It is a 40 year multi-generational fight. The naturalist, Peter Matthiessen, once called the battle over ANWR the longest running, most acrimonious environmental battle in American history.

The oil industry and its allies have long salivated over the prospect of drilling in the refuges 19.6 million acres. They have long argued that the refuge, home to caribou, polar bears and many endangered species, also houses an estimated 10 billion of barrels of recoverable oil.

There could be more oil, there could be much less, there could be noneno one really knows for sure.

The industry has wanted to drill the refuge for decades, but have been stopped by a determined coalition of environmentalists, First Nations and conservationists.

But for how much longer? When Trump became president he said that opening up ANWR was a top priority. And it seems that despite the recent Hurricanes, Trump is pressing ahead to do this.

As the Washington Post reported at the end of last week: The Trump administration is quietly moving to allow energy exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge  with a draft rule that would lay the groundwork for drilling.

Although the Trump administration is pushing for the move, the final say on whether drilling goes ahead lies with Congress.

But in the meantime, officials from the Interior Departmentnow stuffed full of pro-oil appointeesare quietly modifying a regulation from the 1980s that would allow the industry to undertake seismic surveys.

The Post acquired a leaked memo from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service acting director, James Kurth, to prepare an assessment and a proposed rule to update regulations which go back to the eighties.

Kurth wrote: When finalized, the new regulation will allow for applicants to [submit] requests for approval of new exploration plans.

Once the rule is finalized, companies could bid to undertake seismic testing in the refuge.

Environmentalists are naturally outraged. Defenders of Wildlife president, Jamie Rappaport Clark, who led the Fish and Wildlife Service under President Bill Clinton, told the Post: The administration is very stealthily trying to move forward with drilling on the Arctics coastal plain  This is a complete about-face from decades of practice.

This is a really big deal, adds Niel Lawrence, Alaska director of the Natural Resources Defense Council. This is a frontal attack in an ideological battle. The Arctic is the Holy Grail.

It looks like this battle will go to the courts. It could drag on for years. The stakes are huge. As Robert Mrazek, a former New York congressman and chair emeritus of the Alaska Wilderness League told a recent article in Fortune magazine: ANWR is an American Serengeti. You can have the oil. Or you can have this pristine place. You cant have both. No compromise.

Sarah James, an ambassador for the Gwichin First Nations, who lives close to the refuge and who opposes oil development, adds: If you drill for oil here, you will be drilling into the heart of our people.
Rumors and mixed signals on the U.S. plans for the Paris agreement swirled over the weekend as the Trump administration prepared for its first UN General Assembly meeting this week.

Reports surfaced that a White House senior official had indicated at an energy summit in Montreal that the U.S. might soften its opposition to the accord.

In response, the White House doubled down on its assertion that it would pull out of the deal. National security adviser H.R. McMaster said in an interview on ABCs This Week that the U.S. would only stay in the accord if it could renegotiate terms, but Sec. of State Rex Tillerson added on CBSs Face the Nation that the U.S. might seek to remain in the deal under the right conditions.

Trumps announcement that the U.S. would pull out of the agreement has provoked widespread international backlash and is expected to color many of his interactions with other world leaders at the UNGA in New York.

As reported by the Los Angeles Times:

Global warming has renewed political currency in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, which caused epic floods in Houston, and Hurricane Irma, which devastated parts of the Caribbean and left millions of people in Florida without electricity. Scientists say warmer waters may have intensified the monster storms force.

Two more storms, Jose and Maria, are churning off the East Coast.

Environmental activists said they saw no sign that the storms would change Trumps claims that climate change is a hoax.

For anyone who had any hope that two historically devastating storms striking our nation would wake up the Trump administration to the reality of the climate crisis, think again, the Sierra Club said in a statement Saturday, noting that the White House had quickly denied claims out of Montreal.

For a deeper dive:

Paris: WSJ, CNN, The New York Times, Politico, LA Times, The Guardian, USA Today, Washington Post. Tillerson & McMaster: FT, The Guardian, Reuters, The Hill, Politico

For more climate change and clean energy news, you can follow Climate Nexus on Twitter and Facebook, and sign up for daily Hot News.
By Amanda Nickson

The Pacific bluefin tuna is among the most depleted species on the planet, having been fished down more than 97 percent from its historic, unfished size. For years, this prized fish has been in dire need of strong policies that would reverse that decline, but the two organizations responsible for its managementthe Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC)failed in their recent efforts, allowing overfishing to continue and further risking the future of the species.

Last week, however, at a joint meeting of the WCPFC Northern Committee and IATTC, Pacific bluefin received a much-needed respite when its primary fishing nationsJapan, South Korea, Taiwan, Mexico and the U.S.reached agreement with other member states on a long-term plan that would rebuild the population from its current status of 2.6 percent of pre-fishing levels to 20 percent by 2034. This agreement, if properly implemented, would start the speciesand the fishing industry that depends on iton a path toward sustainability.

After decades of inaction, why did these two fisheries management bodies agree to take the needed steps toward rebuilding? Because ignoring the problem became impossible for managers. In the past two years, three nations exceeded their catch limits. Amid increasing calls from The Pew Charitable Trusts and others for a complete fishing moratorium, and in a worst-case scenario, an international trade ban, the government representatives to the WCPFC committee and IATTC finally stepped up to make a change.

Perhaps most significant was the course reversal by Japan. By far the largest fishing nation for, and consumer of, Pacific bluefin, Japan had long resisted proposed rebuilding plans. This year, though, thanks in part to strong international pressure and growing media attention within the country on the plight of the species, the Japanese delegates dropped that opposition and helped make progress that just a few years ago seemed far out of reach.

Despite this commitment, the work to help Pacific bluefin recover has only begun. In the fishing season that ended on June 30, Japanese fishermen exceeded their catch limits by 334 metric tons, and with many reports of illegal fishing in Japans waters, the real amount could be higher. The U.S., South Korea and Mexico also exceeded limits over the past two years. Rebuilding the species under the new quotas and timeline will be nearly impossible if such overages continue. All countries that fish for Pacific bluefin must pledge to strengthen their domestic controls and monitoring programs to guarantee that the commitments to rebuilding made this year are not squandered in the future.

The decision on Pacific bluefin made at the joint meeting could signal a move toward a greater focus on conservation at regional fisheries management organizations like the WCPFC and IATTC. This action by major fishing nations indicates that concrete action is possible. Fishermen and fleets now hold the key to a sustained recovery, and all countries must work together to uphold the new rules. If they can do that, real change on the water may come sooner than many of us expected.
President Donald Trump on Tuesday is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly. Climate change is expected to be high on the agenda at this years gathering.

As the world leaders meet, another major stormHurricane Mariais gaining strength in the Caribbean and following a similar path as Hurricane Irma. The current forecast shows Maria could hit Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm as early as Wednesday. The U.S. Virgin Islands, which were devastated by Irma, also appear to be in line to be hit by Maria.

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that the Trump administration is considering staying in the Paris climate agreement, just months after the president vowed to pull out of it. The White House denied the report. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sunday signaled Trump may back away from the Paris accord, but National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster gave a different message on Fox News Sunday.

We speak with best-selling author Naomi Klein, a senior correspondent for The Intercept. Her most recent book, No Is Not Enough: Resisting Trumps Shock Politics and Winning the World We Need, has been longlisted for a National Book Award.
Ellwood City-area homes for sale rise in price to $139,000

In Lawrence County, homes for sale had a median price of $86 per square foot, while Pennsylvania's was $169
United Nations: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has reached New York to attend the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. According to the News Agency ANI, this annual meeting will be a trilateral dialogue between the US, Japan, and India. Along with this, Foreign Minister Swaraj will meet Bhutans Prime Minister Threshing Tobgay.

Underlining Indias key goals in the session, Indias Standing Representative in the United Nations Syed Akbaruddin had said on Saturday, Our agenda is broad, progressive and expensive and is the goal of global nature. The formal meeting of the session will begin on Monday with the start of a conference organized by US President Donald Trump to discuss issues of reform in the United Nations, where Sushma will represent India. Meanwhile, Sushma Swaraj and Pakistani Foreign Minister Khwaja Asif may face face-to-face in New York next week. On September 23, he will deliver a speech at the UN House.

From the end of sexual harassment to the week of the session in United Nations calendar, more than 100 subjects have been listed on various subjects including health facilities. According to External Affairs Ministry spokesman Ravi Kumar, Sushma will have about 20 bilateral and trilateral meetings with the leaders attending the session. Apart from this, Sushma will also be attending several meetings with several regional and special organizations including South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Non-Aligned Movement, BRICS, Group of Developing Countries, G77. Sushma will also address the high-level roundtable conference on climate change on Tuesday.

Akbaruddin said that the foreign minister can also take solar energy programs prominently, which is Modis priority to fight the problem of climate change. Regarding Indias priorities in the UNGA session, Akbaruddin said that this is based on five pillars  United Nations reform, migration, counterterrorism, and peace establishment. However, Sushma will not be involved in the signing of the treaty signing banning nuclear weapons during which more than 120 countries have supported it. Pakistans Prime Minister Shahid Khakon Abbasi will also attend the session. A spokesperson for the Ministry said that there will be no formal meeting between the two, but they will be involved in SAARC and Joint 77 meetings.
Royal Bank of Canada operates as a diversified financial service company worldwide. The company's Personal & Commercial Banking segment offers checking and savings accounts, home equity financing, personal lending, private banking, indirect lending, including auto financing, mutual funds and self-directed brokerage accounts, guaranteed investment certificates, credit cards, and payment products and solutions; and lending, leasing, deposit, investment, foreign exchange, cash management, auto dealer financing, trade products, and services to small and medium-sized commercial businesses. This segment offers financial products and services through branches, automated teller machines, and mobile sales network. Its Wealth Management segment provides a suite of advice-based solutions and strategies to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, and institutional clients. The company's Insurance segment offers life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, annuities, and reinsurance advice and solutions; and business insurance services to individual, business, and group clients through its advice centers, RBC insurance stores, and mobile advisors; digital, mobile, and social platforms; independent brokers; and travel partners. Its Investor & Treasury Services segment provides asset servicing, custody, payments, and treasury services to financial and other investors; and fund and investment administration, shareholder, private capital, performance measurement and compliance monitoring, distribution, transaction banking, cash and liquidity management, foreign exchange, and global securities finance services. The company's Capital Markets segment offers corporate and investment banking, as well as equity and debt origination, distribution, advisory services, sale, and trading services for corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments. The company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
NEW YORK...September 18, 2017 - Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is not associated with a higher intelligence quotient (IQ), a myth popularized by Sigmund Freud, according to researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), Texas State University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The study, published in the Neuropsychology Review, is believed to be the first analysis of existing data on the link between IQ and OCD sufferers verses the general population. The authors tracked the origins of the myth to the French philosopher, physician and psychologist Pierre Janet in 1903, but it was Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, who popularized the hypothesis in 1909.

"Although this myth was never studied empirically until now, it is still a widely held belief among mental-health professionals, OCD sufferers and the general public," says Dr. Gideon Anholt, a senior lecturer in BGU's Department of Psychology.

The researchers conducted a meta-analysis of all the available literature on IQ in OCD samples versus non-psychiatric controls (98 studies), and found that contrary to the prevailing myth, OCD is not associated with superior IQ, but with normative IQ that is slightly lower compared to control samples. The authors suggested that the small reduction in IQ scores in OCD sufferers may be largely attributed to OCD-related slowness and not to intellectual ability.

The popular misconception about OCD has been further promoted by TV programs like "Monk," which show an individual with OCD using his superior intelligence to solve challenging mysteries. Yet, such beliefs about OCD may facilitate the misconception that there are advantages associated with the disorder, potentially decreasing one's motivation to seek professional help.

"Future IQ assessments of individuals with OCD should focus on verbal and not performance IQ - a score heavily influenced by slowness," the researchers say.

The research team also included Dr. Amitai Abromovich, Texas State University; Sagi Raveh-Gottfried, psychology department, BGU; Dr. Jonathan S. Abramowitz, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Naama Hamo, Ruppin Academic Center, Israel.

###

About American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU) plays a vital role in sustaining David Ben-Gurion's vision: creating a world-class institution of education and research in the Israeli desert, nurturing the Negev community and sharing the University's expertise locally and around the globe. As Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) looks ahead to turning 50 in 2020, AABGU imagines a future that goes beyond the walls of academia. It is a future where BGU invents a new world and inspires a vision for a stronger Israel and its next generation of leaders. Together with supporters, AABGU will help the University foster excellence in teaching, research and outreach to the communities of the Negev for the next 50 years and beyond. Visit vision.aabgu.org to learn more.

AABGU, which is headquartered in Manhattan, has nine regional offices throughout the United States. For more information, visit http://www.aabgu.org.
Philadelphia, Sept. 19, 2017 - In "Ethics and the Legalization of Physician-Assisted Suicide," an updated paper published today in Annals of Internal Medicine, the American College of Physicians (ACP) reaffirmed its opposition to the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and affirmed a professional responsibility to improve the care of dying patients. ACP cites ethical arguments and clinical, policy, legal, and other concerns for its positions.

"The American College of Physicians acknowledges the range of views on, the depth of feelings about, and the complexity of the issue of physician-assisted suicide," said Jack Ende, MD, MACP, president, ACP. "But the focus at the end of life should be on efforts to prevent or ease suffering and on the often unaddressed needs of patients and families. As a society, we need to work to improve hospice and palliative care, including awareness and access."

A recent study found 90 percent of US adults do not know what palliative care is; but when told its definition, more than 90 percent said they would want it for themselves or family members if severely ill.

Despite recent changes in the legal and political landscape and arguments by proponents, ACP finds ethical and other arguments against physician-assisted suicide to be the most compelling, including that physician-assisted suicide alters the physician's role as healer and comforter and the medical profession's role in society, and it affects trust in the patient-physician relationship and the profession.

ACP published a position paper in 2001 opposing legalization of physician-assisted suicide. The issue has been reviewed and considered in multiple editions of the ACP Ethics Manual, now in its 6th edition. "Ethics and the Legalization of Physician-Assisted Suicide" was developed in light of increasing calls for legalization, public interest in the topic, and continuing problems with access to palliative and hospice care, and considers clinical practice, ethics, law, and policy issues.

The updated paper discusses the role of palliative and hospice care, explores the nature of the patient-physician relationship and the critical distinction between refusal of life-sustaining treatment and physician-assisted suicide, and provides recommendations to physicians for responding to patient requests for physician-assisted suicide, recognizing that some individual cases will be medically and ethically challenging.

As noted in the paper, medical ethics and the law strongly support a patient's right to refuse treatment, including life-sustaining treatment. The intent is to avoid or withdraw treatment judged by the patient as unduly burdensome and inconsistent with her health goals and preferences. Death follows naturally after the refusal due to underlying disease. Vigorous management of pain and symptoms such as nausea at the end of life is ethical and, indeed appropriate, even when the risk of shortening life is foreseeable, if the intent is to relieve those symptoms.

ACP recognizes that improvements need to be made to fully realize the principles and practice of hospice and palliative care, including improving access to, financing of, and training in palliative care; improving hospital, nursing home, and at-home capabilities in delivering care; and encouraging advance care planning and openness to discussions about dying.

ACP advises physicians to thoroughly discuss patient concerns and reasons for requests for physician-assisted suicide. The paper has a list of 12 steps that physicians should follow with all patients nearing the end of life. Requests for physician-assisted suicide are unlikely to persist when compassionate supportive care is provided, ACP says in the paper.

"Through effective communication, high quality care, compassionate support, and the right resources for hospice and palliative care, physicians can help patients control many aspects of how they live out life's last chapter," Dr. Ende said.

###

ACP has been long active in end-of-life care issues, with a prior series of consensus panel papers and " Communication about Serious Illness Care Goals: A Review and Synthesis of Best Practices;" content in the ACP Ethics Manual; advocacy on advance care planning, pain management, and other issues; and patient education materials.

About the American College of Physicians

The American College of Physicians is the largest medical specialty organization in the United States with members in more than 145 countries worldwide. ACP membership includes 152,000 internal medicine physicians (internists), related subspecialists, and medical students. Internal medicine physicians are specialists who apply scientific knowledge and clinical expertise to the diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care of adults across the spectrum from health to complex illness.
(Boston)-- A recent study has identified a new lung cell type that is implicated in the body's innate immune defense against the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae--one of the leading causes of pneumonia worldwide.

The findings, which appear in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, may lead to new, non-traditional approaches in the fight against pneumonia and chronic lung diseases.

There are two classifications of cells in the human body: germ cells that are used to make sperm and eggs and somatic cells that make up every other cell in the body including lung cells. There are widespread differences between germ cells and somatic cells underscoring their markedly different roles in human biology. It was previously thought that the MIWI2 gene was only expressed in male germ cells as part of a family of genes that ensure the proper development of sperm. However, researchers at Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) have discovered that not only is the same gene expressed in somatic cells in the body, but also marks a distinct population of multi-ciliated cells that line the upper airways of the lung.

"These ciliated cells have hair-like projections that function to sweep mucous and other foreign material out of the lung. However, what sets this new population of ciliated cells apart is that they express the MIWI2 protein and in this report, were found to have a specialized role in controlling lung infection," explains corresponding author Matthew Jones, PhD, assistant professor of medicine at BUSM.

"Pneumonia is a world-wide public health burden and a leading cause of death from infection. Together with the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria it is now more critical than ever to develop new methods for combating this pathogen. It is our hope that we can leverage these molecular insights to develop novel therapeutic strategies," added Jones.

According to the researchers, the new cell type and pattern of gene expression may also lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind diseases like COPD and asthma--inflammatory conditions that involve changes in the airway cellular composition. The authors are hopeful next steps will lead to new ways of investigating how the body reacts to infectious bacteria in the lung.

###

Funding for this study was provided by the national Institutes of Health (NIH) F31-HL127978 (to GAW), NIH T32-AI089673 (for GAW), NIH R01-HL104053 (to MRJ), NIH R01-HL068153 (to JPM), NIH R01- HL124392 (to XV) NIH R01-HL111449 (to LJQ), CTSI 1UL1TR001430 (Pilot to MRJ and AF). The research leading to these results has also received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) / ERC grant agreement GA 310206.
HOUSTON-(Sept. 18, 2017) - Researchers at Houston Methodist have solved a 100-year-old mystery, providing them a possible key to unlock a pathway for treating diseases caused by flesh-eating bacteria. This is timely news, given the current dangers lurking in the debris and destruction left behind by Hurricane Harvey's floodwaters that destroyed tens of thousands of homes in Texas.

Muthiah Kumaraswami, Ph.D., an infectious diseases researcher at the Houston Methodist Research Institute, is the corresponding author and principal investigator on an article describing his team's findings. The paper will appear the week of Sept. 18 in the early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), one of the world's most cited and comprehensive multidisciplinary scientific journals.

"Group A streptococcus infections are pretty widespread. Not only do they cause several million cases of strep throat every year, but also can lead to more severe infections, such as flesh-eating disease and acute rheumatic heart disease," Kumaraswami said. "If you don't treat strep throat in children, for instance, recurring infections can lead to those more serious diseases and are very difficult to treat. We don't have a vaccine, so basic research is geared toward finding targets for vaccine development."

In this paper, Kumaraswami said he and his team found a critical target on which to focus for developing a potential Group A Streptococcus vaccine or antibiotic to fight it. By manipulating this target, they hope to either reduce the severity of these infections or clear them up faster.

They discovered a peptide secreted by the bacteria that signals its neighbors to produce a toxin called streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin B (SpeB). The production of SpeB is critical for the development of necrotizing fasciitis, better known as flesh-eating disease. Blocking production of that toxin will be crucial for disease prevention and treatment.

"Researchers have known for more than 100 years that Group A strep uses the toxin SpeB and that it is crucial to disease development," Kumaraswami said. "We did not know, however, what signals the timely production of SpeB by Group A streptococcus. Now that we have discovered how Group A strep bacteria communicate with each other to coordinate the production of this toxin, we can target the signaling pathway for vaccine and antimicrobial development."

Kumaraswami says that bacteria talking to each other and producing toxins is not that new. Their communication codes have been characterized for a long time, so researchers know a lot of the classic features in these signals. What's different in what his team discovered is the nature of the language. The Group A streptococcus communication signal they found lacks a majority of those classic hallmarks.

"Typically, the signal is quite long and has a number of characteristic features," Kumaraswami said. "The signal we found is compact and doesn't have many of what we traditionally see in other bacterial peptides, which is probably what contributed to the difficulties in finding it for such a long time. There could be similar atypical signals in other bacteria that have been overlooked, as well, so we believe the discovery of this peptide will likely facilitate discovering additional bacterial peptide signals in other pathogens."

Moving forward, there are several different avenues researchers could take in targeting this peptide signal for either antibiotic or vaccine development. They can develop antibodies to target it or a competing peptide to jam the communication path, which would allow them to block toxin production and reduce disease severity. The second approach involves triggering the toxin production at the early stage where the toxin level would be minimal. Then, the host's immune response would be triggered and clear the bacterial infection much earlier.

###

Other researchers collaborating with Kumaraswami on this paper were Randall J. Olsen, James M. Musser, Hackwon Do, Nishanth Makthal and Arica R. VanderWal with the Houston Methodist Research Institute; Mandy Rettel and Mikhail M. Savitski with the Genome Biology Unit of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in Germany; and Nikolai Peschek and Kai Papenfort with the Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich.

The work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (1R01AI109096-01A1), Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (Exc114-2) and Fondren Foundation.

VIDEO: Dr. Kumaraswami explains the research https://vimeo.com/233845662

To speak with Muthiah Kumaraswami, Ph.D., contact Lisa Merkl, Houston Methodist, at 281-620-2502 or lmerkl@houstonmethodist.org. For more information about Houston Methodist, visit houstonmethodist.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

For more information: A leaderless secreted peptide signaling molecule alters global gene expression and increases virulence of a human bacterial pathogen. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences DOI: 10.1073. (Sept. 18, 2017) H. Do, N. Makthal, A.R. VanderWal, M. Rettel, M.M. Savitski, N. Peschek, K. Papenfort, R.J. Olsen, J.M. Musser, M. Kumaraswami.
Atrazine, widely used as a weedkiller, is known to have harmful effects on aquatic wildlife and presents a risk to human health by altering the action of certain hormones.

In a study published recently in Water Research, a team of researchers led by INRS professor Patrick Drogui compares various processes used to degrade atrazine, one of the most common pesticides detected in surface water in Quebec. The team demonstrates that photo-electro-Fenton (PEF), a hybrid process, is particularly effective for removing low concentrations of atrazine and its by-products in surface water sampled from agricultural areas. The study marks the first use of PEF in these conditions.

The researchers used a combination of electrochemical, photochemical, and photoelectrochemical processes together in a single reactor. The results were conclusive: over 99% of the atrazine was eliminated after 15 minutes of treatment. After 45 minutes of treatment, the by-products were all in concentrations lower than the detection limit in synthetic samples. In surface water, anywhere from 96% to 100% of the by-products were eliminated. The team was even able to observe each phase of degradation for the atrazine by-products.

As coauthor of this study, Professor Patrick Drogui explains, "These days, the challenge is to develop low cost industrial technologies that can be used to treat large volumes of water and simultaneously remove micropollutants like pesticides and their metabolites, which can be more toxic than the original compounds."

Although PEF is a clean, effective technology, it will take some more work to combine it with a biological treatment process in a water treatment plant and make it more energy efficient. Further research is needed to get a better understanding of how the atrazine degradation mechanisms identified in the study function in the presence of organic matter.

###

About the publication

These results are presented in an article published in Water Research under the title "Removal of atrazine and its by-products from water using electrochemical advanced oxidation processes." The research was conducted by Simon Komtchou, Ahmad Dirany, Patrick Drogui, and Pierre Lafrance from INRS's Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre and Didier Robert from Institute of Chemistry and Processes for Energy, Environment, and Health of the French National Research Council (CNRS). Financial support came from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.08.036

About INRS

Institut national de recherche scientifique (INRS) is a graduate-level research and training university and ranks first in Canada for research intensity (average funding per professor). INRS brings together some 150 professors and close to 800 students and postdoctoral fellows at its four centres in Montreal, Quebec City, Laval, and Varennes. Its basic research is essential to the advancement of science in Quebec and internationally, and its research teams play a key role in the development of concrete solutions to the problems faced by our society.
The tendency of dogs to seek contact with their owners is associated with genetic variations in sensitivity for the hormone oxytocin, according to a new study from Linkoping University, Sweden. The results have been published in the scientific journal Hormones and Behavior and contribute to our knowledge of how dogs have changed during their development from wolf to household pet.

During their domestication from their wild ancestor the wolf to the pets we have today, dogs have developed a unique ability to work together with humans. One aspect of this is their willingness to "ask for help" when faced with a problem that seems to be too difficult. There are, however, large differences between breeds, and between dogs of the same breed. A research group in Linkoping, led by Professor Per Jensen, has discovered a possible explanation of why dogs differ in their willingness to collaborate with humans.

The researchers suspected that the hormone oxytocin was involved. It is well-known that oxytocin plays a role in social relationships between individuals, in both humans and animals. The effect of oxytocin depends on the function of the structure that it binds to, the receptor, in the cell. Previous studies have suggested, among other things, that differences in dogs' ability to communicate are associated with variations in the genetic material located close to the gene that codes for the oxytocin receptor. The researchers in the present study examined 60 golden retrievers as they attempted to solve an insoluble problem.

"The first step was to teach the dogs to open a lid, and in this way get hold of a treat. After this, they were given the same task with the lid firmly fixed in place, and thus impossible to open. We timed the dogs to see how long they attempted on their own, before turning to their owner and asking for help," says Mia Persson, PhD student at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, and principal author of the article.

Before the behavioural test, the researchers increased the levels of oxytocin in the dogs' blood by spraying the hormone into their nose. As a control, the dogs carried out the same test after having received a spray of neutral salt water in the same way. The researchers also collected DNA using a cotton swab inside the dogs' cheek, and determined which variant of the gene for the oxytocin receptor that each dog had.

The results showed that dogs with a particular genetic variant of the receptor reacted more strongly to the oxytocin spray than other dogs. The tendency to approach their owner for help increased when they received oxytocin in their nose, compared with when they received the neutral salt water solution. The researchers suggest that these results help us understand how dogs have changed during the process of domestication. They analysed DNA also from 21 wolves, and found the same genetic variation among them. This suggests that the genetic variation was already present when domestication of the dogs started, 15,000 years ago.

"The results lead us to surmise that people selected for domestication wolves with a particularly well-developed ability to collaborate, and then bred subsequent generations from these," says Mia Persson.

The genetic variations that the researchers have studied do not affect the oxytocin receptor itself: they are markers used for practical reasons. Further research is necessary to determine in more detail which differences in the genetic material lie behind the effects.

Per Jensen points out that the study shows how social behaviour is to a large extent controlled by the same genetic factors in different species.

"Oxytocin is extremely important in the social interactions between people. And we also have similar variations in genes in this hormone system. This is why studying dog behaviour can help us understand ourselves, and may in the long term contribute to knowledge about various disturbances in social functioning," he says.

###

The research was funded by the European Research Council, ERC.

The article: Intranasal oxytocin and a polymorphism in the oxytocin receptor gene are associated with human-directed social behavior in golden retriever dogs, Persson, M.E., Trottier, A.J., Belteky, J., Roth, L.S.V., Jensen, P., 2017, Hormones and Behavior 95, 85-93, published online 17 August 2017. doi:10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.07.016

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.07.016

For more information, please contact:

Per Jensen, professor in ethology

per.jensen@liu.se

tel.: 46-13-281298

Karin Soderlund Leifler, press officer

karin.soderlund.leifler@liu.se

46-13-281395
New Rochelle, Sept. 18, 2017 -- A new study has demonstrated the potential to use digital holographic microscopy (DHM) to detect microorganisms and evidence of life in water collected from the plume rising from the surface of Saturn's icy moon Enceladus. The cell detection capabilities of DHM and what may be learned from studying molecules obtained from Enceladus are discussed in articles published in the September issue of Astrobiology, a peer-reviewed journal from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers . These articles are part of a Special Collection on Enceladus that is available free on the Astrobiology website.

Senior Editor Carolyn Porco, PhD, the imaging team leader for the Cassini mission at Saturn and a visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley, organized this special collection of articles on Enceladus, which offers a wide-ranging look at "that little moon at Saturn with the big possibilities" as NASA's Cassini mission comes to an end.

"The papers in this collection offer a glimpse into the state of a rapidly changing subject at one moment in time... as the Cassini mission draws to a close and we are contemplating the next steps in the exploration of Enceladus," says Dr. Porco.

In the article "Digital Holographic Microscopy, a Method for Detection of Microorganisms in Plume Samples from Enceladus and Other Icy Worlds ," coauthors Manuel Bedrossian, Chris Lindensmith, and Jay Nadeau, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, describe a light-weight microscope that collects both frequency and spatial information and can distinguish between particulate matter, like bits of rock, and dead microbes. With its video recording capabilities that would allow detection of motility as well, such a device could provide definitive, visual evidence of life beyond Earth.

In another article, Steven Benner, Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution (Alachua, FL), proposes a universal biosignature that could be used to detect the presence of a biological system that undergoes Darwinian evolution, such as might be found on Enceladus or other ocean worlds. He proposes a particular characteristic, based on the structure of the genetic material found in terrestrial life, that should be present in any genetic biopolymer regardless of underlying chemistry. His article is entitled "Detecting Darwinism from Molecules in the Enceladus Plumes, Jupiter's Moons, and Other Planetary Water Lagoons."

###

About the Journal

Astrobiology, led by Editor-in-Chief Sherry L. Cady, a Chief Scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and a prominent international editorial board comprised of esteemed scientists in the field, is the authoritative peer-reviewed journal for the most up-to-date information and perspectives on exciting new research findings and discoveries emanating from interplanetary exploration and terrestrial field and laboratory research programs. The Journal is published monthly online with Open Access options and in print. Complete tables of content and a sample issue may be viewed on the Astrobiology website.

About the Publisher

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers is a privately held, fully integrated media company known for establishing authoritative peer-reviewed journals in many promising areas of science and biomedical research, including New Space and High Altitude Medicine & Biology. Its biotechnology trade magazine, GEN (Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News), was the first in its field and is today the industry's most widely read publication worldwide. A complete list of the firm's 80 journals, books, and newsmagazines is available at the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers website .
Do parents think schools are equipped to handle health issues like asthma attacks and mental health issues?

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- If your child had an asthma attack during the school day, would school personnel know how to respond?

Which staff at your child's school would recognize and assist an elementary student with prolonged sadness over his parents' divorce? Or a teen who was struggling with anxiety about academic pressure?

Just 38 percent of parents are very confident in schools' ability to assist a student suspected of having a mental health problem, according to a new report from the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health at the University of Michigan.

Most parents (77 percent) are sure schools would be able to provide first aid for minor issues, such as bleeding from a cut. But parents are less confident about a school's ability to respond to more complex health situations, such as an asthma attack or mental health problem.

"Parents feel schools can handle basic first aid, but are less sure about urgent health situations such as an asthma attack, epileptic seizure, or serious allergic reaction," says Sarah Clark, M.P.H, co-director of the poll. "And they have the most uncertainty around whether schools can identify and assist a student with a mental health problem."

"One of the challenges of addressing mental health is that there are so many facets," Clark says. "At the elementary level, this might include prolonged sadness, anger management problems, or undiagnosed ADHD. For older students, it may be anxiety about college entrance tests, a problem with drug use, or suicidal thoughts."

Parents at the middle/high school level noted that school counselors would be most likely to assist with mental health issues. Yet varying levels of training, competing demands and large student caseloads may make it especially difficult for counselors to develop relationships that facilitate the identification of students who are struggling, Clark says.

"Parents may want to learn more about how their child's school works to identify and support students struggling with mental health issues, and advocate for increased resources if needed," she says.

For basic first aid and urgent health conditions, parents name the school nurse as the staff with primary responsibility. Roughly 3 in 5 parents believe a school nurse is onsite at their child's school 5 days a week (61 percent of elementary parents, 57 percent of junior/senior high parents). Parents who believe a school nurse is onsite 5 days a week report higher levels of confidence in the school's ability to handle health and safety situations.

However, recent data from the National Association of School Nurses suggests that parents may be overestimating the amount of time a nurse spends at their child's school. Fewer than half of U.S. schools have full-time nurses, with substantial variation by region, according to the data.

Assuming the constant availability of a school nurse may be particularly chancy for students with health conditions that may require an immediate response at school, such as administering a medication or knowing when to call an ambulance.

"Parents of children with special health needs should work directly with school personnel to understand the onsite availability of school nurses, and to ensure non-medical staff are prepared to handle urgent health-related situations that may arise during the school day," she says.

###
The discovery of a puddle of mouse urine seems like a strange scientific "eureka" moment.

However, for one team of researchers, that's exactly what led to a new discovery.

The researchers' findings may enhance understanding of how our bodies balance water content -- 50 to 60 percent of our weight. It may also lead to better understanding of hormone-related diseases can cause conditions ranging from diabetes to obesity.

Starting from that patch of abnormally wet cage litter, the researchers traced the cause all the way into tiny nerve cells in the pituitary glands of their research mice.

Clues and experiments led them into the folds of the endoplasmic reticulum or ER, as it's called -- a microscopic structure inside every cell.

The ER is the last stop for many items that cells send out into the world. If a pituitary gland cell is a hormone factory, then the ER is both the quality control department and the packaging and shipping department for those hormones.

The team's discovery shows that the ER quality control machine does more than just keep the cell from shipping poorly made goods, by destroying bad products before they do damage. They show that, in addition, the ER machinery provides a safe space for the cell to put finishing touches on its products, keeping the bad ones from clumping together with the good ones.

If this safe space fails, they show, the hormone known as vasopressin can't do a key job: helping the body balance its water levels by reclaiming water from urine.

What might one see in a mouse that lets too much water go in its urine? Perhaps an unusually wet mouse cage.

University of Michigan physiology professor Ling Qi, Ph.D., explains that the findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, illustrate a new role for a process called endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation or ERAD.

"We know that critical events regulating hormone levels in the body happen in the ER," he says. "We demonstrate that the machinery of the ERAD process controls the level of hormones released from cells and thereby controlling systemic water balance."

A new role for ERAD

ERAD was already known to play a key role in identifying badly-made products, such as misfolded proteins, and breaking them down before they can leave the cell.

In fact, many genetic diseases may be resulted from overwhelming the ERAD machinery with too many mutated, misfolded proteins. Even during normal protein production, a few bad copies get made and fold inappropriately. U-M has started a Protein Folding Disease Initiative to study all of these issues.

But the team of Qi, postdoctoral fellows Guojun Shi, Ph.D., and Geun Hyang Kim, Ph.D., and undergraduate student Diane Somlo, now a Yale University medical student, and colleagues from around the world, show that ERAD can do more.

Their study centers around proAVP, a "prohormone" or the precursor of the hormone called arginine-vasopressin, or also sometimes called vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone.

They had actually set out to study what role another molecule, called Sel1L, plays in living organisms. They did not expect that Sel1L was important to water balance and the ability of proAVP to leave cells. So, they produced a mouse equipped with a drug-sensitive genetic mechanism that allowed them to turn off Sel1L production.

When they stopped Sel1L production, the mice started drinking a lot more water and producing watery urine, mirroring symptoms seen in people with a rare hormone disorder known as diabetes insipidus.

The human disease, which occurs in about 1 in every 25,000 people, has been known to be caused by a lack of vasopressin, or decreased ability of kidneys to respond to it.

Through painstaking research, the team showed that when ERAD didn't happen normally, misfolded proAVP molecules didn't get cleared, and they formed aggregates, or clumps, with normal proAVP molecules. That meant the normal hormone couldn't get where it needed to go.

"What's really fascinating is that ERAD appears to control secretion of AVP by degrading misfolded proteins, and allowing the good ones to go," says Qi. "Without ERAD, the bad ones attach to the good ones which then stay in the ER. This suggests that central diabetes insipidus may develop because of problems with quality control in the ER."

The researchers suspect that the level of water in the body may even act as a feedback loop to trigger the production of more ERAD machine. But if the ERAD machinery is broken, that extra prohormone could gum up the works further.

Taken together, the findings suggest that efforts to boost ERAD function could help normal prohormone folding and shipping go more smoothly.

Perhaps targeted drugs could be found to accomplish this, says Qi, though that could be years away.

"Protein folding is critical in the pathogenesis of many diseases," he says. "This shows how important the ERAD process is in that process. If ER stress response is a fire alarm, ERAD is the firefighters putting out the fires and preventing them from spreading to the next house."

###

In addition to Qi, Shi and Kim, who are members of the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology at the U-M Medical School, and their U-M colleague Peter Arvan of the Department of Internal Medicine, the research team included Cristina Prescianotto-Baschong, Nicole Beuret, Jonas Rutishauser and Martin Spiess of the University of Basel, Switzerland, Shengyi Sun of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and Qiaoming Long of Suzhou University in China.

The research used the Microscopy & Image Analysis Laboratory at the U-M Medical School, and funding from the U-M Protein Folding Diseases Initiative as well as the National Institutes of Digestive and Diabetes and Kidney Diseases (DK48280, DK111174), the Swiss National Science Foundation and the American Diabetes Association.

Reference: Journal of Clinical Investigation, DOI:10.1172/JCI94771, https://www.jci.org/articles/view/94771
Brain structures that control sexual and aggressive behavior in mice are wired differently in females than in males. This the finding of a study led by scientists at NYU School of Medicine and published online Sept. 18 in Nature Neuroscience.

Specifically, researchers found that, while control of aggressive behavior resides in same brain region in female and male mice, certain groups of brain cells in that region are organized differently. Two separate groups of cells were found to control sex and aggression in females, whereas circuits that encourage sex and aggression in males overlapped, say the study authors.

Knowing how aggressive behaviors are regulated is important because they are essential to survival in mice, as well as in humans, which have evolved to compete for food, mates, and territory, researchers say.

"Our study furthers our understanding of how these behaviors are organized differently in female and male mice brains," says study senior investigator Dayu Lin, PhD, an assistant professor at the Neuroscience Institute at NYU Langone Health.

Having a detailed breakdown of brain functions by gender, Lin adds, is a "fundamental step" toward any future attempt to develop drugs that suppress extreme aggression in humans. She says research on female aggressive behavior has lagged because, in most animals, males are the more aggressive gender.

Original research by Lin and her team, published in Nature in 2011, was among the first to trace the origins of male aggression in mice to a distinct part of the hypothalamus, the brain region that controls body temperature, hunger, sleep, and levels of many hormones. This key part, the ventrolateral part of the ventromedial hypothalamus, or VMHvl, is located on the underside of the hypothalamus in mice and humans.

Other, recent studies that had blocked the action VMHvl cells in female mouse brains failed to trace the source of aggression control to the VMHvl. This blockade did stop all male and female attempts to mate, but did not reduce fighting among females, says Lin.

She says these other studies -- having used a mouse type known for timidity -- did not accurately replicate natural conditions. The current study was made more realistic by including a naturally aggressive mouse strain, as well as female virgin mice eager to fight off competitors for food, and new mothers anxious to protect their pups, say the authors.

The current study monitored the brain activity of the virgin and mother mice during fights with any female or male mouse that had entered their boxed space. The brains of all study mice were tested with electrical, genetic, or chemical probes that measured which nerve cells were turned on or off, and how this affected their fighting behavior. Researchers found that, under these more realistic conditions, turning VMHvl cells on or off did control whether female mice would fight. Researchers also monitored in males and females the activity of individual cells in the VMHvl with proteins that enable them to interact with the sex hormones (e.g. estrogen receptor alpha). Such cells had previously been linked to fighting behaviors in male mice.

Experiments showed that VMHvl cells actively transmitting signals, or "firing," while females were mating were not the same cells firing when they were fighting. But in male mice, many of the same cells were firing during both activities. Further analysis showed that males had a mixed spatial distribution of the VMHvl cells involved in either behavior. In females, the cells involved in fighting were arranged along the center of the VMHvl, while those involved in mating were distributed along its borders.

Lin says her laboratory next plans to fine-tune tools for experimenting separately on the female mating and fighting VMHvl cells. She says her team also has plans to investigate the biological origins of these cells to determine how the female nerve circuity develops in contrast to the circuitry in males.

###

Funding support for the studies was provided by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) grants R01 MH101377 and R21 MH105774. Additional funding support was provided by the Mathers Foundation, Irma T. Hirschl Trust, Ester A. and Joseph Klingenstein Fund, Whitehall Foundation, Sloan Foundation, and McKnight Foundation.

Besides Lin, other NYU Langone scientists involved in this research were co-lead investigators Koichi Hashikawa, PhD, and Yoshiko Hashikawa, PhD; Robin Tremblay, PhD; James Feng, PhD; Alexander Sobol, PhD; Walter Piper, PhD; and Bernardo Rudy, MD, PhD. Additional research support was provided by Jiaxing Zhang, PhD, at Xiamen University in China; and by Hyosang Lee, PhD, at the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in Korea.

Media Inquiries:

David March

212-404-3528

david.march@nyumc.org
NASA and NOAA satellites have provided data on Maria as it strengthened into a major Hurricane headed toward the Leeward Islands. NASA's Aqua satellite provided an infrared look at Maria that showed cooling cloud top temperatures and NOAA's GOES satellite provided an animation of imagery that showed the storm developing and strengthening. The GPM satellite found "Hot" towering clouds that indicated strengthening was occurring before Maria became a major hurricane.

Warnings and Watches on Sept. 18

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued a Hurricane Warning for Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts, Nevis, and Montserrat, Martinique, St. Lucia, U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Maarten and Anguilla.

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Puerto Rico, Vieques, and Culebra, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, St. Martin and St. Barthelemy, and Anguilla. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Maria's Development

On Saturday, Sept. 16 the National Hurricane Center was watching Potential Tropical Cyclone Fifteen. The depression formed at 2 p.m. EDT that day. Three hours later it strengthened into a tropical storm and was named "Maria." At 5 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 17, Maria strengthened into a hurricane and continued to strengthen.

GPM Finds "Hot Towers" in Maria Before Strengthening

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission (GPM) core observatory satellite had an excellent view of hurricane Maria when it passed almost directly above the hurricane on Sept. 17, 2017 at 1001 p.m. AST/EDT (Sept. 18 0201 UTC). GPM's Microwave Imager (GMI) and Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) showed that Maria had well defined bands of precipitation rotating around the eye of the tropical cyclone. GPM's radar (DPR Ku band) found rain falling at a rate of over 6.44 inches (163.7 mm) per hour in one of these extremely powerful storms northeast of Maria's eye.

NASA obtained a look at Maria's precipitation structure using data from GPM's Radar (DPR Ku band). Intense thunderstorms were found towering to above 9.7 miles (15.7 km). This kind of chimney cloud, also called a "hot tower" (as it releases a huge quantity of latent heat by condensation). These tall thunderstorms in the eye wall are often a sign that a tropical cyclone is becoming more powerful.

About Hot Towers

A "hot tower" is a tall cumulonimbus cloud near the center of a tropical cyclone, often seen prior to intensification. The cloud tops reach at least to the top of the troposphere, the lowest layer of the atmosphere which is approximately 9 miles/14.5 km high in the tropics. These towers are called "hot" because they rise to such altitude due to the large amount of latent heat. Water vapor releases this latent heat as it condenses into liquid. Those towering thunderstorms have the potential for heavy rain. Energy released by rainfall into the center of a tropical cyclone provides the energy upon which tropical cyclones thrive.

Cloud Top Temperatures Show Strengthening

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder or AIRS instrument aboard NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed Hurricane Maria in infrared light. Infrared light provides scientists with temperature data and that's important when trying to understand how strong storms can be. The higher the cloud tops, the colder and the stronger they are. So infrared light as that gathered by the AIRS instrument can identify the strongest sides of a tropical cyclone.

When NASA's Aqua satellite flew over Maria on Sept. 18 at 1:35 a.m. EDT (0535 UTC) AIRS detected that cloud top temperatures had cooled indicating they were higher into the atmosphere. Cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 81.6 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 63.1 degrees Celsius). Storms with cloud top temperatures that cold have the capability to produce heavy rainfall.

Satellite View of Maria Strengthening Over Time

At NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. the NASA/NOAA GOES Project created an animation of NOAA's GOES East satellite imagery from Sept. 14 at 1:45 p.m. EDT (1745 UTC) to Sept. 18 ending at 7:45 a.m. EDT (1145 UTC). The animation shows Hurricane Jose moving north along the U.S. East coast, the development strengthening of Hurricane Maria and its approach to the Leeward Islands, and Tropical Depression Lee in the Eastern Atlantic.

NHC noted the estimated central pressure inside the 10 nautical mile-wide eye has fallen to 959 millibars. The small eye is also apparent in radar data from Martinique.

Maria's Status on Sept. 18

The NHC said at 11 a.m. AST/EDT (1500 UTC), the center of Hurricane Maria was located

Near 14.7 degrees north latitude and 60.1 degrees west longitude.

Maria was moving toward the west-northwest near 10 mph (17 kph), and this motion with some decrease in forward speed is expected through Tuesday night, Sept. 19. On the forecast track, the center of Maria will move across the Leeward Islands late today and tonight, over the extreme northeastern Caribbean Sea Tuesday and Tuesday night, and approach Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on Wednesday, Sept. 20.

Reports from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate that maximum sustained winds have increased to near 120 mph (195 kph) with higher gusts. Maria is a category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Additional rapid strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours, and Maria is expected to be a dangerous major hurricane as it moves through the Leeward Islands and the northeastern Caribbean Sea.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles (30 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km). The minimum central pressure estimated from the Hurricane Hunter aircraft data is 959 millibars.

NHC expects Maria's eye to move through the Leeward Islands during the afternoon or evening today, Sept. 18.

###

For updates on Maria, visit: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov

Rob Gutro / Hal Pierce

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
COLUMBUS, Ohio - People who tend to trust their intuition or to believe that the facts they hear are politically biased are more likely to stand behind inaccurate beliefs, a new study suggests.

And those who rely on concrete evidence to form their beliefs are less likely to have misperceptions about high-profile scientific and political issues, said Kelly Garrett, the lead researcher and a professor of communication at The Ohio State University.

"Scientific and political misperceptions are dangerously common in the U.S. today. The willingness of large minorities of Americans to embrace falsehoods and conspiracy theories poses a threat to society's ability to make well-informed decisions about pressing matters," Garrett said.

"A lot of attention is paid to our political motivations, and while political bias is a reality, we shouldn't lose track of the fact that people have other kinds of biases too."

Garrett and co-author Brian Weeks of the University of Michigan published the study in the journal PLOS ONE. They examined data from three nationally representative surveys that included anywhere from 500 to almost 1,000 participants. Their aim was to better understand how people form their beliefs and how that might contribute to their willingness to accept ideas with little or no evidence to support them.

They looked at how participants responded to 12 questions including "I trust my gut to tell me what's true and what's not," "Evidence is more important than whether something feels true" and "Facts are dictated by those in power."

They used responses to these questions to assess people's faith in intuition, their need for evidence, and their belief that "truth" is political.

"These are characteristics that we expected would be important above and beyond the role of partisanship," Garrett said. "We're tapping into something about people's understanding of the world, something about how they think about what they know, how they know it and what is true."

The researchers compared how participants' approach to deciding what is true was related to their beliefs about hot-button topics. The study included questions about the debunked link between vaccines and autism and the science-based connection between human activity and climate change.

Garrett and Weeks found that people who believe that truth is shaped by politics and power are more likely to embrace falsehoods. On the other hand, those who rely on evidence were less likely to believe those falsehoods.

The researchers also evaluated survey respondents' tendency to agree with seven well-known conspiracy theories. More than 45 percent said they didn't buy that John F. Kennedy was murdered by Lee Harvey Oswald alone; 33 percent agreed that the U.S. government was behind the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and 32 percent said Princess Diana's death was orchestrated by the British royal family.

Previous research has shown connections between belief in conspiracy theories and education level, religious fundamentalism and party affiliation, Garrett said.

In this study, a belief that truth is political was the strongest predictor of whether someone would buy into conspiracy theories. Garrett also found that those who rely on intuition to assess the truth had a stronger tendency to endorse conspiracies.

"While trusting your gut may be beneficial in some situations, it turns out that putting faith in intuition over evidence leaves us susceptible to misinformation," said Weeks, who worked on the research as an Ohio State graduate student.

Garrett said it's important to acknowledge that our beliefs aren't based solely upon political predispositions.

"Misperceptions don't always arise because people are blinded by what their party or favorite news outlet is telling them," he said.

The good news, as Garrett sees it? "Making an effort to base your beliefs on evidence is an easy way to help avoid being misled."

It's also possible to influence others in a positive direction, he said, by sharing evidence in a calm, respectful manner when faced with misperceptions. If a Facebook friend, for instance, posts an inaccurate item, a link to a trusted news source or document can be helpful, Garrett said.

"People sometimes say that it's too hard to know what's true anymore. That's just not true. These results suggest that if you pay attention to evidence you're less likely to hold beliefs that aren't correct," he said.

"This isn't a panacea - there will always be people who believe conspiracies and unsubstantiated claims - but it can make a difference."

###

The National Science Foundation supported this research.

CONTACT: Kelly Garrett, 614-247-7414; Garrett.258@osu.edu

Written by Misti Crane, 614-292-5220; Crane.11@osu.edu
Animals in the Goldilocks zone -- neither too big, nor too small, but just the right size -- face a lower risk of extinction than do those on both ends of the scale

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Animals in the Goldilocks zone -- neither too big, nor too small, but just the right size -- face a lower risk of extinction than do those on both ends of the scale, according to an extensive global analysis.

Reporting today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers who determined body masses for thousands of vertebrate animal species showed that the largest and smallest species face a greater risk of extinction than do mid-sized animals.

Disproportionate losses at the large and small ends of the scale raise the likelihood of significant changes to the way natural ecosystems function in forests, grasslands, oceans and even rivers and streams -- "the living architecture of the planet," the researchers wrote.

"Knowing how animal body size correlates with the likelihood of a species being threatened provides us with a tool to assess extinction risk for the many species we know very little about," said William Ripple, a distinguished professor of ecology at Oregon State University and lead author of the study.

Ripple and colleagues from the United States, Australia and Switzerland looked at the more than 27,000 vertebrate animal species assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature in the so-called Red List. About 4,400 are threatened with extinction.

Among the groups of animals evaluated were birds, reptiles, amphibians, bony fishes, cartilaginous fishes (mostly sharks and rays) and mammals.

The largest animals are threatened principally with harvesting by humans. "Many of the larger species are being killed and consumed by humans, and about 90 percent of all threatened species larger than 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) in size are being threatened by harvesting," said Ripple.

"Harvesting of these larger animals takes a variety of forms including regulated and unregulated fishing, hunting and trapping for meat consumption, the use of body parts as medicine and killing due to unintentional bycatch," the authors wrote.

Meanwhile, threats to the smallest animals may be grossly underestimated. The smallest species with high extinction risk consist of tiny vertebrate animals generally less than about 3 ounces (77 grams) in body weight. These diminutive species are mostly threatened by loss or modification of habitat. Examples include the Clarke's banana frog, sapphire-bellied hummingbird, gray gecko, hog-nosed bat and the waterfall climbing cave fish. Small species that require freshwater habitats are especially imperiled.

Different conservation strategies will be needed to address threats to the largest and smallest animals, the scientists said. Well known mammals at the large end of the scale -- whales, elephants, rhinos, lions -- have been the target of protection programs, but conservation attention is also needed for large-bodied species that are not mammals. They include large fish, birds, amphibians and reptiles such as the whale shark, Atlantic sturgeon, Somali ostrich, Chinese giant salamander and the Komodo dragon.

Human activity seems poised to chop off both the head and tail of the size distribution of life, the authors added, which will fundamentally restructure many ecological communities.

###

Co-authors included Christopher Wolf at Oregon State, Thomas Newsome at Deakin University and the University of Sydney in Australia, Michael Hoffman at the IUCN, Aaron Wirsing at the University of Washington and Douglas McCauley at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Contact: Nick Houtman, nick.houtman@oregonstate.edu, 541-737-0783

Source: William Ripple, 541-737-3056, bill.ripple@oregonstate.edu
Comprising more than 17,000 islands, the Indonesian archipelago is one of the world's most biodiverse places on Earth.

Sponges, aquatic organisms whose bodies consist of numerous pores to allow the ingress of water, are key components of this richness and play a fundamental role in the survival of coral reef habitats. Furthermore, they are also known for their medicinal benefits.

Unfortunately, due to the paucity of taxonomic expertise, the sponges from the Indonesian reefs are often ignored in monitoring surveys and conservation programmes, while their diversity is largely underestimated.

Researchers from the Italian Universita Politecnica delle Marche and Universita degli Studi di Genova, PharmaMar, Spain, and University of Sam Ratulangi, Indonesia, describe six new species in their paper in the open access journal, ZooKeys.

Inspired by their extraordinary biodiversity, the researchers teamed up with the pharmaceutical company PharmaMar to conduct several expeditions in the waters of North Sulawesi Island.

The authors reported a total of 94 demosponge species belonging to 33 families living in the North Sulawesi Island. Amongst them, there are six species new to science and two previously unknown symbiotic relationships.

Seven of the recorded species were collected for the very first time since their original description.

However, these findings are still scarce, given the abundance of the sponges in similar localities in the Indonesian archipelago.

In conclusion, the authors note that the marine diversity in Indonesia is still far from being well known.

"Thanks to this impressive diversity, these areas are important spots for diving tourism and require the urgent development of sustainable tourism practices," they say.

###

Original source:

Calcinai B, Bastari A, Bavestrello G, Bertolino M, Horcajadas SB, Pansini M, Makapedua DM, Cerrano C (2017) Demosponge diversity from North Sulawesi, with the description of six new species. ZooKeys 680: 105-150. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.680.12135
Emotional learning can create strong memories and powerful emotional responses, but flexible behavior demands that these responses be inhibited when they are no longer appropriate. Scientists at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute in Japan have discovered that emotional and flexible learning rely on an important division of labor in the brain. Published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, the study shows that these different learning states require distinct populations of neurons that originate in the locus coeruleus of the brain and transmit signals using noradrenaline.

Noradrenaline is a hormone and neurotransmitter that gets our bodies and mind ready for action. In the body, this includes functions of the sympathetic nervous system like increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to muscles. In the brain, noradrenaline helps us stay alert and focus our attention, but are also important for emotional learning, especially when it relates to fear and anxiety. Although scientists have long thought that all noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus send the same signals to the rest of the brain through a single, homogenous population of cells, something did not add up to the team at RIKEN.

As team leader Joshua Johansen explains, "the locus coeruleus functions in many behaviors, including emotional learning and cognitive and behavioral flexibility. We wondered how a homogeneous system could regulate these seemingly opposing aspects of behavior. Surprisingly, the answer was that the system is not homogenous."

The team reached this conclusion by examining two types of learning. The first was fear learning in which an animal learns to associate a sound with a fearful event. This type of learning is known to involve increases of noradrenaline in a part of the brain called the amygdala. The second was extinction of fear learning in which the association between the sound and the event is unlearned through repetition of the sound without the fearful event. This type of flexible learning involves increases of noradrenaline in a part of the brain called the medial prefrontal cortex.

Experiments showed that during fear learning, most noradrenergic neurons were activated by the intense aversive situation. However, as fear responses changed during extinction, one group of locus coeruleus neurons were active early in learning when fear reactions were still high, while another group began to respond as the association was unlearned and the emotional reactions were suppressed.

Further experiments revealed that the noradrenergic cell group active during fearful states sent projections to the amygdala, while the group active during extinction projected to the medial prefrontal cortex.

The functions of these two separate projections became clear when the team used optogenetics to inhibit one or the other during the different learning states. Inhibiting the projection to the amygdala during fear learning prevented animals from associating the sound with the fearful event, while inhibiting it during extinction facilitated a return to normal, flexible behavior. In contrast, inhibiting the prefrontal projection had no effect on fear learning, but instead reduced extinction learning, resulting in animals that continued to behave as if they were scared of the sound even though it no longer predicted the fearful event.

"Although all noradrenergic cells responded strongly during intense fear learning, we found that during extinction learning when emotional responses need to be suppressed, smaller populations of noradrenaline cells are engaged at different time-points," related Johansen. "Specifically, activation shifts from amygdala-projecting cells that try to sustain fear responses, to the prefrontal cortex-projecting cells that are important for overriding these emotional responses. This is what enables a shift from reflexive emotional responses to normal, flexible behavior."

Because drugs that target the noradrenaline system are currently under development for the treatment of anxiety disorders, these findings could have an impact on future drug discovery.

"By understanding the detailed circuitry underlying fear learning and safety learning," says Johansen, "our study suggests that noradrenaline-based treatment approaches would benefit from more specific targeting and differential regulation of these pro-fear and anti-fear populations of noradrenergic cells."

The lab is now examining the molecular differences between these different cell populations in the hope of developing better drug treatments for anxiety disorders.

###

Reference:

Uematsu A, Tan BZ, Ycu EA, Cuevas JS, Koivumaa J, Junyent F, Kremer EJ, Witten IB, Deisseroth K, Johansen JP (2017). Modular organization of the brainstem noradrenaline system coordinates opposing learning states. Nat. Neurosci. doi: 10.1038/nn.46420
Higher cigarette prices were associated with reduced infant mortality in the European Union, while increased price differences between premium and budget cigarettes were associated with higher infant mortality, according to a new article published by JAMA Pediatrics.

Increased cigarette prices because of higher taxes have proven to be an effective measure in tobacco control. Transnational tobacco companies have responded with differential pricing strategies, where tax increases are loaded onto premium brands. This results in a price gap between premium and budget cigarettes and that can impact the effectiveness of tax increases in reducing smoking because smokers can switch to less-expensive products, according to background in the study.

Filippos T. Filippidis, Ph.D., of the Imperial College London, England, and coauthors examined associations between median cigarette prices, price differentials between cigarette brands and infant mortality from 2004 through 2014 in 23 EU countries.

Infant mortality declined in all the countries during the study period. The median infant mortality rate was 4.4 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2004 and 3.5 per 1,000 live births in 2014. Both median and minimum cigarette prices increased in all 23 countries during the study period, according to the results.

Increases in the median price of cigarettes were associated with reductions in infant mortality across Europe from 2004 through 2014. Among the more than 53.7 million live births during the study period, a $1.18 (U.S.) or 1 Euro increase per pack in the median cigarette price was associated with 0.23 fewer deaths per 1,000 live births in the same year and an additional 0.16 fewer deaths per 1,000 live births in the following year, the authors report.

However, a 10 percent increase in the price differential between median-priced and minimum-priced cigarette price was associated with 0.07 more deaths per 1,000 live births the following year, according to the results.

Study limitations include its design as an ecological analysis which precludes making individual level inferences. Some data also were missing for some regions and years.

"Combined with other evidence, this research suggests that legislators should implement tobacco tax and price control measures that eliminate budget cigarettes," the article concludes.

###

For more details and to read the full article, please visit the For The Media website.

(doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2017.2536)

Editor's Note: The study includes funding/support disclosures. Please see the articles for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, financial disclosures, funding and support, etc.

To place an electronic embedded link in your story: Links will be live at the embargo time: http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2017.2536
Alison Butler has never met Canadian chemist and philanthropist Alfred Bader, but they have something important in common.

Harvard-educated Bader is considered by the American Chemical Society (ACS) to be "one of the top 75 distinguished contributors to the chemical enterprise in the last 75 years." Among his many achievements: the endowment of an ACS prize in bioinorganic or bioorganic chemistry that bears his name.

Now Butler, a professor of chemistry at UC Santa Barbara, is the newest recipient of that award. She will receive $5,000 and a certificate, plus a paid trip to the 2018 ACS National Meeting in New Orleans, where she will give a keynote address about her research. A symposium will be held in her honor.

"I was so surprised and pleased to get the phone call from the president of the American Chemical Society," said Butler, who is also UCSB's associate vice chancellor for academic personnel. "It an honor just to be nominated let alone selected. I view the Bader Award as a reflection of the tremendous accomplishments of my students and postdocs. I'm so proud of their achievements, and I feel lucky to have them on my team."

The Alfred Bader Award in Bioinorganic or Bioorganic Chemistry recognizes significant accomplishments at the interface between biology and organic or inorganic chemistry, particularly applications of chemistry's fundamental principles and experimental methodology to areas of biological significance. Butler was chosen for her work "elucidating the bioinorganic chemistry of the marine environment."

Among other research, Butler's lab focuses on transition metals -- in particular, vanadium -- and how marine bacteria use the materials in combination with biochemical players like peptides, proteins and enzymes to extract iron from the ocean. Her team works with siderophores, small molecules that bind and transport iron in microorganisms such as bacteria. When Butler's lab modified a siderophore called cyclic trichrysobactin that they had previously discovered, the result was a compound that rivals the staying power of mussel glue.

"The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is very proud of Professor Butler and thrilled that the ACS has recognized her numerous research accomplishments with the Bader Award," said department chair Steven Buratto. "This award is well-deserved and cements Professor Butler's status as one of the top bioinorganic chemists in the world."

A graduate of Reed College, Butler received her Ph.D. from UC San Diego in 1982. She was a National Institutes of Health postdoctoral fellow at UCLA and at the California Institute of Technology before joining the faculty at UCSB in 1986.

Butler, who received an American Cancer Society Junior Faculty Research Award, is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and of the American Chemical Society. She has chaired three Gordon Research Conferences -- Environmental BioInorganic Chemistry (2006), Metals in Biology (2004) and Marine Natural Products (2002) -- which provide an international forum for the presentation and discussion of frontier research in the biological, chemical and physical sciences and their related technologies.

###
Eight children born - and the first robot-assisted operation performed. These are some of the results of 18 years of research at Sahlgrenska Academy on uterus transplants. In Gothenburg, the elite of the research world in the field are now gathering for their first congress.

In three years, from September 2014 to today, eight children in the world have been born to mothers who had fertilized eggs returned after undergoing a uterus transplant. All of this has taken place in the scope of the research conducted at Sahlgrenska Academy since 1999.

The first birth enjoyed international attention. When children seven and eight came into the world one week apart this past summer, the framing was considerably calmer. For one of the mothers, it was her second child; she had undergone two pregnancies with the same donated uterus.

In a new project, the researchers in Gothenburg are now focusing on robot-assisted operations. The objective is to more easily handle the challenge of operating inside the woman's bowl-shaped pelvis. The basic technology is the same as in some cancer operations, such as cervical cancer operations.

"The hypothesis in our research is that we can do it significantly faster this way and with an earlier return home for the patients," says Mats Brannstrom, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Sahlgrenska Academy and Senior Physician at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.

One operation took place in May, four await in October and December and the remaining five will be done in coming years. Just like before, the attempts to make the women pregnant begin one year after they have received the transplanted uterus when the situation regarding medication against rejection has stabilized.

Besides the robot-assisted operations, one of which was also done in China, donations from deceased donors is also an issue of current interest. Not for the Swedish researchers, here it has always been about living and related donors, but the ideas are being considered elsewhere in the world.

Mats Brannstrom describes uterus transplants as an internationally growing field with a need for a common compulsory register of all procedures done in order for the researchers to get an overview. The register will be an important issue when the year-old organization, International Society for Uterus Transplantation (ISUTx) holds its first congress, until September 19.

Mats Brannstrom believes that uterus transplants will also be done outside the research sphere in a few years. He is well aware of the discussion of priorities in healthcare and actually does not want to have opinions on matters other than the medical.

"In the future, this method will become even more effective, and a clinical reality. We don't know if this will be in Sweden. Medically, it's fully realistic in five years, but there are many other decisions we have no control over," he says.

FACTS ABOUT UTERUS TRANSPLANTS

Uterine infertility is the kind of female infertility that has had no treatment. More than 200,000 women in Europe are estimated to have uterine infertility.

The first transplant attempt with a living donor was made in Saudi Arabia in 2000. The uterus had to be removed shortly after the procedure.

In 2011, a transplant was done in Turkey with a uterus from a brain-dead patient. Several embryo return attempts were reported. Two early pregnancies ended in miscarriage bleeding. No other pregnancy has been reported

Operations 2-11 in the world with living donors were done at Sahlgrenska Academy in the scope of the world's first systematic and scientifically based study. In 2014, the first child was born.

In a new research project, the possibilities of robot-assisted operations are being studied. The project comprises ten operations of which five will be this year.

Donors, recipients, partners and children are monitored for a long time both medically, psychologically and from a quality of life perspective.

Professor Mats Brannstrom estimates that in recent years, there have been up to 20 more operations in the world. The idea is that the ISUTx congress and an international register will contribute to a better overview and to a scientific way to drive the field of research forward with the aim of increasing safety for patients and the effectiveness of the treatment.

###

More information: http://www.isutx.org

Contact: Mats Brannstrom +46 736254455; mats.brannstrom@obgyn.gu.se

Press contact: Margareta Gustafsson Kubista +46 707301980; margareta.g.kubista@gu.se
Thermoelectric materials are considered a key resource for the future - able to produce electricity from sources of heat that would otherwise go to waste, from power plants, vehicle tailpipes and elsewhere, without generating additional greenhouse gases. Although a number of materials with thermoelectric properties have been discovered, most produce too little power for practical applications.

A team of researchers - from universities across the United States and China, as well as Oak Ridge National Laboratory - is reporting a new mechanism to boost performance through higher carrier mobility, increasing how quickly charge-carrying electrons can move across the material. The work, reported this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, focused on a recently discovered n-type magnesium-antimony material with a relatively high thermoelectric figure of merit, but lead author Zhifeng Ren said the concept could also apply to other materials.

"When you improve mobility, you improve electron transport and overall performance," said Ren, M.D. Anderson Chair professor of physics at the University of Houston and principal investigator at the Texas Center for Superconductivity at UH.

Thermoelectric materials produce electricity by exploiting the flow of heat current from a warmer area to a cooler area, and their efficiency is calculated as the measure of how well the material converts heat into power. However, because waste heat is both an abundant and free source of fuel, the conversion rate is less important than the total amount of power that can be produced, Ren said. That has prompted researchers to look for ways to improve the power factor of thermoelectric materials.

Paul Ching-Wu Chu, TLL Temple Chair of Science, founding director and chief scientist of the Texas Center for Superconductivity, noted that Ren previously had demonstrated the importance of a material's power factor in determining how well it will work in a thermoelectric device. Chu is a co-author for this most recent work, which he said "demonstrates in the n-type magnesium-antimony-based materials that the power factor can indeed be enhanced by properly tuning the carrier scattering in the material."

"That provides a new avenue to more powerful thermoelectric devices," he added.

Thermoelectric semiconductors come in two variations, n-type, created by replacing an element resulting in a "free" electron to carry the charge, and p-type, in which the replacing element has one fewer electron than the element which it replaced, leaving a "hole" that facilitates movement of energy as the electrons move across the material to fill the vacant spot.

The work reported in PNAS addresses the need for a more powerful n-type magnesium-antimony compound, expanding its potential as a thermoelectric material that can be paired with an effective p-type magnesium-antimony material, which had been previously reported.

The material's power factor can be boosted by increasing carrier mobility, the researchers said. "Here we report a substantial enhancement in carrier mobility by tuning the carrier scattering mechanism in n-type Mg3Sb2-based materials," they wrote. "... Our results clearly demonstrate that the strategy of tuning the carrier scattering mechanism is quite effective for improving the mobility and should also be applicable to other material systems."

The researchers replaced a small fraction of magnesium in the compound with a variety of transition-metal elements, including iron, cobalt, hafnium and tantalum, to determine how best to boost carrier mobility and, through that, the material's power factor.

"Our work," the researchers conclude, "demonstrates that the carrier scattering mechanism could play a vital role in the thermoelectric properties of the material, and the concept of tuning the carrier scattering mechanism should be widely applicable to a variety of material systems."

###

In addition to Chu and Ren, researchers involved with the project include Jun Mao, Jing Shuai, Shaowei Song and Zihang Liu, all of the University of Houston; Yixuan Wu and Yanzhong Pei of Tongji University; Rebecca Dally and Stephen Wilson of the University of California, Santa Barbara; Jiawei Zhou and Gang Chen of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Jifeng Sun and David Singh of the University of Missouri; Qinyong Zhang of Xihua University and Clarina dela Cruz of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Major floods and droughts receive a lot of attention in the context of climate change, but University of Illinois researchers analyzed over five decades of precipitation data from North America to find that changes in nonextreme precipitation are more significant than previously realized and larger than those in extreme precipitation. These changes can have a strong effect on ecosystems, agriculture, infrastructure design and resource management, and point to a need to examine precipitation in a more nuanced, multifaceted way.

"This study articulates how everyday precipitation events -- not just the extremes that have been the focus of most studies -- are changing," said Illinois civil and environmental engineering professor and lead author Praveen Kumar . "It's not just the amount of rainfall that is important; it's the duration of that rainfall and the amount of time between rainfalls and dry periods."

The study, published in Nature Scientific Reports, is the most comprehensive of its type, said graduate student and co-author Susana Roque-Malo.

"We used data from more than 3,000 weather stations across North America," Roque-Malo said. "There are a few other studies that use a similar methodology, but they have focused on smaller sections of the continent or parts of Europe."

The researchers identified several regions where the microclimates - the local climate determined by elevation and ecosystem - appear to have a significant effect on local and regional precipitation trends.

In Oregon's Willamette Valley, the researchers observed decreases in the total annual precipitation, the number of days per year with precipitation and the number of consecutive days with precipitation. The areas immediately surrounding the valley, however, experienced increases in those measures.

"Examples like this indicate that changes in precipitation patterns are much more nuanced, and that it may not be the best practice to make broad assumptions like 'all wet areas are becoming wetter and dry areas are becoming drier,' as many climate change discussions assert," Roque-Malo said.

These observations have important implications on the resilience of ecosystems, agriculture and water resource planning, the researchers said.

"Successive generations of ecosystems evolve through adaptation to climatic change," Kumar said. "If that rate of change, however small, exceeds the adaptive capacity, these environments will become susceptible to collapse."

"Hydroelectric plants, storm water drainage systems - any structure that relies on an assumption of expected precipitation - could be vulnerable as we look toward becoming more climate-resilient," Roque-Malo said.

Although current climate models may not be able to resolve these types of small but creeping changes observed in this study, the researchers hope that this work will inform and provide validation criteria for more sophisticated future models and assessment of the impact of climate change.

"This study confirms that there is more to climate than the number and size of extreme events," says Richard Yuretich, a program director in the National Science Foundation's Division of Earth Sciences, which funded the research. "Shifts in the daily pattern of rainfall, sometimes subtle, also occur. These can be very hard to document, but the existence of long-term monitoring sites provides the information needed to recognize trends and plan for future changes."

###

The National Science Foundation's Intensively Managed Landscapes Critical Zone Observatory project, the University of Illinois Graduate College Fellowship and SURGE Fellowship supported this research.

Editor's notes:

To reach Praveen Kumar, call 217-333-4688; kumar1@illinois.edu.

The paper "Patterns of change in high frequency precipitation variability over North America" is available online and from the U. of I. News Bureau .
University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic have received a five-year, $12.4 million grant renewal from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to continue the Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) for lymphoma research. The renewal was based on a highly competitive process of peer review conducted by cancer researchers from across the country.

The University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma SPORE is a highly productive research collaboration focused on developing new approaches to the prevention, detection, and treatment of lymphoma. First funded in 2002 and competitively renewed in 2007, 2012, and now again in 2017, it is the nation's longest-standing lymphoma SPORE and has now received more than $46 million from the NCI.

"We are thrilled to have our Lymphoma SPORE renewed for another five years," says George Weiner, MD, director and principal investigator of the SPORE at the University of Iowa and director of Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. "It is particularly exciting to see advances we have made being applied worldwide to improve patient care."

SPORE funds support four major research projects, four shared research cores, clinical trials, early pilot projects, and new investigators in lymphoma research taking place at Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic Cancer Center.

"It is gratifying to see other inter-institutional research groups use the Iowa-Mayo collaborative model to accelerate progress by working across institutions," Weiner says. "Working with outstanding collaborators and staff here at the University of Iowa and at Mayo Clinic on the Lymphoma SPORE has been one of the great pleasures of my career, and I look forward to another five years of close collaboration, and, most importantly, bringing research advances forward so they help patients."

"We are grateful to the NCI to receive renewal of our Lymphoma SPORE that is conducted with our colleagues at the University of Iowa," says Thomas Witzig, MD, SPORE director at Mayo Clinic, who received his internal medicine training at the University of Iowa. "This five-year grant will continue our quest to understand why patients get lymphoma and will be providing our patients opportunities for exciting new therapies."

Both institutions have extensive experience in lymphoma research, from basic investigation through the performance of innovative clinical trials. The two institutions also work together on the epidemiology of lymphoma.

The reviewers commended multiple components of the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic collaboration, including a supportive scientific environment in both cancer centers that encourages creative, productive research that has resulted in more than 150 papers published in the last funding cycle. The reviewers also noted the SPORE collaboration's high rate of success in funding productive developmental research work and fostering careers in translational lymphoma research.

The SPORE team's work includes translational and clinical studies exploring the potential of treatments that stimulate the immune system to treat lymphoma, clinical trials targeting lymphoma-specific signaling pathways, discovery of gene mutations in cell-signaling pathways that contribute to development of lymphoma, identification of key interactions between lymphoma cells and their microenvironment that can be disrupted to make the lymphoma cells more vulnerable to chemotherapies, and investigation into biomarkers that could have a significant impact on management of lymphoma for individual patients.

The research team has worked with more than 7,000 patient volunteers to understand how genetic makeup and other factors determine outcomes in patients with lymphoma.

###

University of Iowa faculty and Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center members involved in the SPORE come from the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, and Liberal Arts and Sciences and include Weiner, Gail Bishop, Brian Link, Brian Smith, Umar Farooq, Aliasger Salem, Sergei Syrbu, and numerous other faculty and staff.

To learn more about the lymphoma SPORE, visit uihc.org/lymphoma-spore.

About Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center

Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center is Iowa's only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center and treated nearly 24,000 unique cancer patients in fiscal year 2016.

About University of Iowa Health Care

University of Iowa Health Care is the state's only comprehensive academic medical center, dedicated to providing world-class health care and health-related outreach services to all Iowans. Based in Iowa City, UI Health Care includes University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, and University of Iowa Physicians, the state's largest multispecialty physician group practice.
Montreal, Sept. 18, 2017 - Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM) have discovered a way to slow viral replication in the gastrointestinal tract of people infected by HIV-AIDS.

This advance, published in JCI Insight, might well lead to the development of a new therapeutic strategy to supplement antiretroviral therapy (ART), improving the control of viral replication in HIV-infected persons and preventing complications associated with chronic infection.

"We have identified a molecule that stimulates HIV replication in CD4 T cells located in the gut," said Petronela Ancuta, a CRCHUM researcher and professor at UdeM. "We have also started testing medications to block this replication and decrease inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. This is a promising new approach to eradicate HIV, or at least to achieve functional cure."

The ART used to treat HIV-infected persons can decrease viral loads to often undetectable blood levels, and is effective in preventing evolution of the infection towards acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). But HIV is tenacious. "In spite of the effectiveness of antivirals, it hides in specific immune system cells, the CD4 T cells, which harbour the virus and form viral 'reservoirs' in various peripheral tissues, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract," Ancula explained. "Inside these 'reservoirs,' some viral organisms continue to replicate, which leads to harmful inflammation in the gut. Hence the idea to limit viral replication at all levels and to counteract inflammation."

"The digestive tract is an environment conducive to viral 'reservoirs'," added the study's lead author, Delphine Planas, a CRCHUM doctoral candidate. "Our research demonstrates that CD4 T cells which migrate from the blood to the gut will be modified. En route, they acquire the tools that aid the virus in infecting them. Identifying these tools helps us understand why the gut represents a sort of sanctuary favourable to HIV, and thus how to combat these 'reservoirs'."

An HIV 'postal code'

CD4 T cells migrate from the blood to the gut thanks to marker molecules expressed on their surface; some of these, called CCR6, act like a "postal code" for the cells, indicating they should direct themselves to the gut. Previously, the researchers had shown that cells expressing the CCR6 molecule are preferential targets of in-vitro infection, and are viral "reservoirs" in subjects being treated with ART.

Using biopsies of the sigmoid colon and blood of HIV-infected persons on ART therapy, Ancuta's team, along with one led by Jean-Pierre Routy of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), has now discovered that in the colon, the CD4 T cells which express the CCR6 postal code also contain a large amount of another molecule called mTOR, an important regulator of metabolic mechanisms.

"It is the mTOR molecule which is in part responsible for the high vulnerability to HIV of the CD4 T lymphocytes expressing CCR6 and residing in the gut," explained Planas.

A potential treatment

By interfering with mTOR activity during in-vitro experiments with existing medications, researchers have been able to significantly reduce HIV replication in the cells of HIV-infected patients whose viral load was undetectable.

Medications inhibiting mTOR activity are used successfully in the treatment of cancer and diabetes. Other studies are needed to validate their use in the treatment of HIV-AIDS. But researchers already recognize the potential for improving quality of life and increasing chances of curing HIV-infected patients by using mTOR inhibitors to supplement antiretroviral treatments.

"In specifically targeting CD4 T cells carrying the CCR6 molecule, which contains dormant HIV, we think these medications will decrease gastrointestinal inflammation of individuals on ART," Ancuna said. "Over the long term, we hope that this type of treatment will reduce even more the amount of virus persisting in gut reservoirs. Therefore, this is an important strategy to cure HIV, and one that deserves to be tested."

###

About this study

"HIV-1 selectively targets gut-homing CCR6+CD4+ T cells via mTOR-dependent mechanisms," by Delphine Planas et al, was published in JCI Insight on August 16, 2017. The study was supported by grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) (MOP-82849 and MOP-114957), the CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network (CTN 247), the Fonds de recherche du Quebec - Sante (FRQS), the AIDS and Infectious Diseases Network (AIDS/DI) of the FRQS, and by a team grant from the Canadian HIV Cure Enterprise (HIG-133050) of the CIHR, in partnership with the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research and the International AIDS Society. For additional information, read the full study at https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.93230

Source: University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)

Information:

Isabelle Girard

Information Advisor, CRCHUM

Phone: +1 514 890-8000, ext. 12725 | @CRCHUM

isabelle.girard.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca
In the United States, therapeutic horseback riding offers equine-assisted therapy to diverse populations, including children and adults who have anxiety disorders. Veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder often are prescribed this type of therapy in order to cope with anxiety, but little is known about how these programs affect the stress levels in horses. Now, a University of Missouri study has revealed that horses ridden by veterans with PTSD did not have undue physiological stress responses, nor did they exhibit behavioral stress while participating in a veterans' therapy program. This shows that therapeutic horseback riding, also known as THR, may provide a viable repurposing for retired or unwanted horses.

"Estimates have shown that approximately 6,300 horses globally work in therapeutic horseback riding programs at more than 800 centers," said Rebecca Johnson, a professor in the MU College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Millsap Professor of Gerontological Nursing in the Sinclair School of Nursing. "While there is a growing body of literature demonstrating the beneficial outcomes from THR programs for people with developmental, cognitive and psychosocial disabilities, such as veterans with PTSD; it is imperative that we consider horse stress levels to ensure their health and welfare. Our study was designed to assess the differences in both physiological stress levels and behavioral stress responses while being ridden by veterans in these programs or by experienced riders."

Two groups were recruited for the study: veterans who were diagnosed with PTSD and healthy, experienced riders. Each individual horse was ridden in accordance with an approved program for approximately 60 minutes weekly at the same time of day for six weeks. Veterans learned basic horseback riding skills as well as how to apply riding tack to the horse, mounting and dismounting. Experienced riders were asked to go through the same actions as the veterans.

In order to measure physiological stressors on the horses, blood samples were collected 30 minutes before classes started, after the riding tack was applied to the horse, and after the riding class at the first, third and sixth weeks. Cortisol, which is a part of the central nervous system and a good indicator of stress in the body, was measured as well as glucose concentrations and other measurements.

Behavioral stress indicators were assessed by viewing videotapes of the horses obtained for two-minute periods during the first, third and sixth weeks. Using a stress scale, two researchers scored the videos involving different horses to determine restlessness, jumpiness and startle-reflexes, as well as how accepting and calm the horses were at other times.

"Findings from our physiological and behavioral data indicated that the horses were not unduly stressed by the THR work; however, we found differences in the horses' stress levels between rider groups," Johnson said. "Equine cortisol levels were elevated after riding tack was applied by inexperienced riders, in this case the veterans. However, we think that might be because these riders were applying the tack and mounting the horses a little differently than the experienced riders. The horses also showed elevated physiological and behavioral responses with experienced riders, which could indicate that these riders expect a higher level of performance from the horses. Overall, horses involved in the THR program exhibited low stress responses, indicating no harm from doing the work of THR, which could give retired or unwanted horses a new lease on life."

The interaction between horses and riders has been demonstrated to increase riders' confidence, self-esteem, sensory sensitivity and social motivation while decreasing stress. THR programs could enhance their orientation times and curricula to include tacking classes and increasing introductory sessions between horses and riders to decrease stress to the horses, Johnson said. Future studies should include larger groups of participants as well as other measures of physiological stress.

###

The article, "Horses Working in Therapeutic Riding Programs: Cortisol, Adrenocorticotropic Hormone, Glucose, and Behavior Stress Indicators," was published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. Funding was provided by the USDA National Institutes of Food and Agriculture, Animal Health (Grant: 1003417). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the funding agencies.
Lack of consumer engagement, insufficient information, and inadequate attention to vulnerability has slowed down the UK rollout of energy smart meters, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Sussex.

The 11 billion smart meter programme, which is supported by a 100-million marketing campaign, has not met its targets due to consumer apathy and confusion, especially in the case of vulnerable people, say the researchers.

The UK government planned to install smart meters in every home by 2020 to reduce national household energy consumption by 5-15%, and thereby help meet the UK's climate change targets. Smart meters are digital gas and electricity meters that connect households to suppliers and feature a home display that aims to help people better understand their energy use. The programme, officially called Smart Meter Implementation Programme (SMIP) is the largest government-run information technology project in history. Yet, a year in, energy providers had only managed to install the meters in seven percent of homes. To hit the target by 2020, suppliers would need to install 40,000 smart meters per day for the duration of the programme.

Professor Benjamin Sovacool, lead author of the study and director of the Sussex Energy Group, pointed out:

'We have recently seen how the government had to backtrack on its ambitions to make installation in every home obligatory; they are basically admitting a degree of failure. Consumer confusion and even resistance to the programme exist, which is a clear sign that they need to improve consumer engagement and the provision of information about the benefits of the technology. This is especially true when it comes to vulnerable classes of people, such as the elderly and those less educated'.

The paper, published in Energy Policy, argues that discussions around technical glitches have partially obscured societal issues that need to be addressed for a more successful campaign. The researchers looked at two primary sources of data, a systemic review of the academic literature on smart meters as well as participant observation of seven major events on the SMIP during 2015-2016.

Dr Kirsten Jenkins, Research Fellow in Energy Justice and Transitions at the University of Sussex, adds that another benefit to the study is that it helps demystify the smart meter programme. As she clarifies:

'I come at this paper both as a researcher and as a potential user of a smart meter in my own home, and one that despite initially being told I could upgrade now, was later informed there was no availability in my area. For many the SMIP has remained something of a mystery. Our study makes an important step towards revealing its dynamics and highlighting the necessity of not only technological advancement, but thoroughly considered social integration that is conscious of both new and old social vulnerabilities.'

The new technology is not only supposed to increase awareness around household energy needs, but also make households more energy efficient and reduce energy bills. However, the paper argues that rather than engaging consumers about the potential benefits, the technology has only generated 'confusion and resistance' in many households. There is little awareness of the benefits or understanding of how the technology works even in those households where the technology has been installed.

Dr Paula Kivimaa, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Sussex, emphasizes that the actions of users and consumers could greatly compromise the success of the programme. As she states:

'Given the removal of several important policy instruments targeting energy efficiency and demand reduction in buildings in 2015, the SMIP has a crucial role in advancing these policy targets. However, the failure to engage consumers effectively puts the success of this programme at risk, and, thus requires speedy and effective action on behalf of those in charge of its implementation.'

Dr Sabine Hielscher, a Research Fellow at Sussex, comments that the 'high expected benefits associated with the rollout of smart meters have been kept alive and their achievements have stayed optimistic within the UK government over the last decade. Although the SMIP has been increasingly scrutinised and uncertainties surrounding expected benefits persisted, it will be interesting to see how the smart meter rollout will unfold over the next few years.'

###

The full study is available for free until the end of September at https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1VWWr14YGgTtDm.

Citation: Sovacool, BK, P Kivimaa, S Hielscher, and K Jenkins. "Vulnerability and resistance in the United Kingdom's smart meter transition," Energy Policy 109 (October, 2017), pp. 767-781.
The Smart Clothing 2.0 project led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd creates business opportunities for Finnish smart clothing and services. Research institutes and companies are working together to develop completely new products for the international markets.

For the past ten years, major business opportunities have been predicted to open up for smart clothing. Technology can be integrated in textiles and clothing to enable simultaneous and real-time monitoring of multiple factors, functional smart adjustments, and the development of a wide range of service concepts for different consumer segments. The development of sensor and data communications technology in particular will enable significant international breakthroughs.

Smart Clothing 2.0 will identify distinct end user needs and the latest technological potential. This will help to develop new product and service concepts, working in close collaboration with the business participants. Functionality of the project's concepts will be tested by VTT and the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, while the Emergency Services College will provide their expert opinions on both smart clothing and several service concepts, for example in matters related to accident call outs.

"We are organising an ambitious collaboration network for smart clothing to commercialise Finnish expertise in the booming national and international markets. Ultimately, we will develop genuinely new smart clothing for diverse user groups, be it hikers, top athletes, firefighters, children of all ages, fitters working high on masts, personnel maintaining and installing lifts, or patients recovering in hospitals," says Project Leader and Principal Scientist, Pekka Tuomaala of VTT.

The project has five business participants, each developing smart clothes and services for their own company. Suunto's project includes several service concepts for exercise and leisure activities. Inkron will produce printed electronics solutions for textiles. Savox is planning new functionalities, for example for the needs of fire and rescue services. Reima encourages children to move using smart clothing concepts. Wind Controller develops smart clothing solutions and services for the needs of wind turbine fitters and maintenance personnel working in many types of extreme conditions.

"In the Smart Clothing 2.0 project, national spearhead funding is used to support the deepening collaboration across the industry as a whole, and level the path for businesses accessing the international smart clothing markets, currently enjoying strong growth," said Specialist Jouko Salo from Tekes, the main funding agency for the project.

###

Led by VTT, Smart Clothing 2.0 was launched in June 2017 and will run until December 2018.

In addition to Tekes and business participants (Suunto Oy, Inkron Oy, Savox Oy, Reima Oy ja Wind Controller Oy), the project is funded also by KONE Corporation, LahiTapiola Oy, Image Wear Oy ja Finlayson Oy. #SmartClothing2

Read more: block Smart clothing is on its way - are you ready?

Further information:

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd

Pekka Tuomaala, Principal Scientist

+358 40 720 1724, pekka.tuomaala@vtt.fi

Twitter: @pekka_tuomaala

Further information on VTT:

Milka Lahnalammi-Vesivalo

Communications Manager

+358 40 5457 828

milka.lahnalammi-vesivalo@vtt.fi

http://www.vtt.fi

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd is the leading research and technology company in the Nordic countries. We use our research and knowledge to provide expert services for our domestic and international customers and partners, and for both private and public sectors. We use 4,000,000 hours of brainpower a year to develop new technological solutions. VTT in social media: Twitter @VTTFinland, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.
Cellulose nanofibrils have properties that can improve the characteristics of bio-based 3D-printing pastes. VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is developing a 3D wound care product for monitoring wound condition in hospital care. However, the first commercial nanocellulose applications will be seen in indoor decoration elements, textiles and the production of mock-ups.

3D printing has proven to be an efficient manufacturing method for complex, customised and light structures. In addition to thermoplastics, 3D printing materials include metals, ceramics and foodstuffs. The range of biomaterials in 3D paste printing is still fairly limited, since pastes pose unique challenges: their structure must not collapse during printing and the objects manufactured must remain sufficiently strong, rigid or flexible after drying. In 3D biomaterial filaments, however, commercial products already exist.

Cellulose nanofibrils offer an opportunity for developing durable, bio-based commercial 3D-printing materials. They can offer an alternative to the currently used chemicals, such as resins, synthetic thickeners, strengtheners and plastics, the use of which might generate harmful emissions and even allergising compounds.

3D technology in wound care

Nanocellulose is an attractive option for medical applications, for example as a carrier of drug molecules. VTT is currently developing a solution where a protein attached to a 3D-printed adhesive bandage can help to promote the growth of skin cells around a wound. The purpose is to have the healed wound area remain flexible instead of it developing stiff scar tissue. The development is done in collaboration with the University of Tampere and funded by The Academy of Finland under the BioDisp3D programme. The same materials development process can also be used in the cosmetics industry or in the manufacture of artificial bone, for example.

"By using nanocellulose, we have succeeded in creating 3D structures that absorb liquids three times more efficiently than the compared alginate fibre dressings commonly used in wound care," says Senior Scientist Panu Lahtinen from VTT.

VTT's wound care prototype combines nanocellulose, a protein used in wound care, and printed electronics measuring wound healing into a single product. The measurement electrodes were printed with silver ink onto a film made of polyurethane-nanocellulose, with the electrodes providing connection points for the wireless FlexNode reader developed at VTT. The electrodes are protected by another laminated layer of the film. On top of this lamination lies a 3D-printed wound care gel containing nanocellulose, alginate and glycerol as the active ingredients. The FlexNode reader transmits temperature or bioimpedance data from the wound wirelessly to a computer used by the health care team. The reader can be connected to the wound and attached to the patient with gauze.

Nanocellulose has not yet been approved for medical use, which means that it will take several years before this application is used in hospitals.

Decorative elements

VTT is also developing bio-based printing materials for modifying textiles, mock-ups, indoor decoration elements and therapy applications in wound care under the DWoc and NoMA projects funded by Tekes -- the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation. By selecting appropriate combinations of materials, it is possible to print both flexible and rigid structures, depending on the need. Product properties can also be customised by other means.

Nanocellulose increases the opportunities for creating new surface patters in decorative elements. The development still requires light and moisture tests in various applications. Printing materials can also be used for 3D-printing customised moulds.

Cellulose nanofibrils

Manufactured for example from cellulose or the side streams of agricultural or food production, Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) are suitable for 3D printing pastes thanks to their mechanical strength, effects on viscosity and biodegradability. In particular, CNFs can be used for improving the rigidity of 3D-structures. The way the fibrils are cross-linked affects the properties of the structure: moisture tolerance, rigidity and flexibility.

Due to the excellent water absorption capacity of CNFs, printing pastes can be made viscous enough for the 3D printing process. A 3D printing paste can contain up to 50% of water without the paste running during printing.

VTT has used CNFs to develop flexible, rigid and porous structures. Manufacturing a flexible structure out of bio-based materials is challenging, since the object tends to harden and become more rigid as it dries.

###

MEDIA MATERIAL IN FLICKR: https://www.flickr.com/photos/149240221@N02/sets/72157686057248201

References:

VTT submitted a patent application number FI20166054 related to 3D printing materials in 2016.

Publication on wound care: Leppiniemi&al., 3D-Printable Bioactivated Nanocellulose?Alginate Hydrogels, ACS Applied materials & interfaces, 2017.

Presentation: Lahtinen&al., Multicomponent printing pastes for 3D printing bio-based hydrogels, Biofor 2017, Montreal 15 February 2017.

Presentation: Tenhunen et al., 3D-printing of cellulosic materials - properties and suitability on cellulosic fabrics, 253rd ACS national meeting, San Francisco 2-6 April 2017.

Further information:

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd

Senior Scientist Panu Lahtinen

panu.lahtinen@vtt.fi

tel. 040 5349794

Further information on VTT:

Milka Lahnalammi-Vesivalo

Communications Manager

+358 40 5457 828

milka.lahnalammi-vesivalo@vtt.fi

http://www.vtt.fi

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd is the leading research and technology company in the Nordic countries. We use our research and knowledge to provide expert services for our domestic and international customers and partners, and for both private and public sectors. We use 4,000,000 hours of brainpower a year to develop new technological solutions. VTT in social media: Twitter @VTTFinland, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.
New Haven, Conn. -- Scientists have uncovered two closely related cytokines -- molecules involved in cell communication and movement -- that may explain why some people develop progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), the most severe form of the disease. The findings, authored by researchers at Yale University, Oregon Health & Science University, and the University of California point the way toward developing a novel treatment to prevent progressive forms of the disease.

The research was published today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Researchers identified a cytokine, called macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), along with its related protein, D-dopachrome tautomerase (D-DT), which are associated with progressive MS. These cytokines worsen the disease by increasing inflammation within the central nervous system. The researchers also linked enhanced expression of MIF with a gene variant that occurred more frequently in MS patients with progressive disease -- particularly in men.

These findings suggest that a simple genetic test could be used to identify MS patients at risk of developing the more severe form of the disease. As medications to halt the disease are under development, the researchers say that such a therapy could be used as part of a precision medicine approach that would be most effective in patients who have the MIF genetic susceptibility.

"The value of this discovery to patients is that there are now approved therapies, as well as new ones in development in the Oregon and Yale labs, which target the MIF pathway and could be directed toward progressive MS," said co-senior author Richard Bucala, M.D., professor of medicine, pathology, and epidemiology, and public health at Yale. Using a simple genetic test to select patients who might benefit the most from MIF blockers would accelerate drug development by reducing cost, decreasing risks of toxic effects, and providing a genetically tailored, effective treatment, he said.

"If you start a therapy before the disease has progressed very far, you have a much better opportunity to slow it or stop it," said co-senior author Arthur Vandenbark, a professor of neurology and molecular microbiology and immunology at the OHSU School of Medicine. "We now have a rational, molecular target for slowing or preventing the transition from relapsing-remitting to progressive MS, a stage of MS which is much more severe."

Scientists made the discovery through the careful clinical observation of patients with MS combined with immunologic and DNA analysis of their samples. In addition, researchers combined their human investigations with laboratory work showing that a therapeutic agent previously developed to successfully treat MS-like disease in rodents could block the pathologic action of both MIF and D-DT on its immune receptor -- the first time such a molecular intervention was achieved.

MS is a chronic condition that affects an estimated 2.3 million people worldwide. In MS, the sheath covering nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord becomes damaged, slowing or blocking electrical signals from the brain reaching the eyes, muscles, and other parts of the body.

###

Other study author are Gil Benedek, Roberto Meza-Romero, Kelley Jordan, Ying Zhang, Ha Nguyen, Gail Kent, Jia Li, Edwin Siu, Jenny Frazer, Marta Piecychna, Xin Du, Antoine Sreih, Lin Leng, Jack Wiedrick, Stacy Caillier, Halina Offner, Jorge R. Oksenberg, Vijayshree Yadav, and Dennis Bourdette.

This research was supported in part by the National Institutes of Health, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Rocky Mountain MS Center Tissue Bank, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. A.A.V., H.O., G.B., R.M.-R., and Oregon Health & Science University have a significant financial interest in Artielle ImmunoTherapeutics, Inc., a company that may have a commercial interest in the results of this research and technology.
By Ryan Conklin

Since joining Wright & Moore in August 2015, one of my priorities has been working with young, beginning, and small (YBS) farmers. Many of the folks I encounter in professional and social circles fit this mold and are using their 20s and 30s to begin farming or join existing family operations. For these YBS farmers, getting off the ground can be a steep climb and one that often presents unique legal challenges.

The most common line of questions YBS farmers ask me is about whether to form a business entity. Makes sense, right? Between starting a family, working an off-farm job, and spending your free time in the fields or barn, many YBS farmers start to wonder is it time for me to make my business legitimate? Well, in a classic attorneys answer, I will tell you it depends. The needs of each client must be considered when answering this question, however, here are a few examples that could provide additional guidance.

1Direct marketing

Q. My wife and I are starting to market our own products at local markets and directly to customers, should we have a business?

A. Most likely, yes. Selling products directly to markets and consumers is considered a high-risk activity. If you make someone sick with your products, youre liable no matter how careful you are. Take advantage of all the liability protection you can get (and buy plenty of liability insurance). Other high-risk activities include property rentals, trucking and raising large amounts of livestock.

2Working with family, friends

Q. My best friend and I have this great idea and want to start using it to make money. Should we put something formal in place?

A. Again, most likely the answer is yes. Business ventures among family members or friends are also high risk endeavors. If the business effort fails, what happens to the profits or losses? If one party wants to leave, can the other buy back his/her share? These issues, and others, can be addressed through forming a business, and can save lots of headaches down the road.

3Employees

Q. Business for my farm recently picked up, and I had to hire a few employees to help with the workload. Should we have a business entity?

A. Forming a business entity would be a great idea in this scenario. If you are not incorporated, and one of your employees causes an accident, you could be directly liable for the accident. Even if you are the only business owner, operating under a formal entity is a key form of liability protection (in addition to your liability insurance).

4Love and the farm

Q. I am going to get married next month and have some farm assets I want to protect from a potential divorce. Would a business entity help?

A. Possibly. This question is more difficult to answer. If you form a business and put your farm assets into that business, it could provide some short-term protection from divorce. However, the longer you are married, the more the line between marital asset and non-marital asset begins to blur. If this is a concern for you, the best route to protecting farm assets is a prenuptial agreement.

Sources: This week, we turn to guest author Ryan Conklin, an attorney with the firm of Wright & Moore, www.ohiofarmlaw.com, in Delaware, Ohio. He grew up on a dairy farm in southern Union County, Ohio, and works with farmers and landowners on a variety of issues.

(Farm and Dairy is featuring a series of 101 columns throughout the year to help young and beginning farmers master farm living. From finances to management to machinery repair and animal care, farmers do it all.)

More Farming 101 columns:
Consumer demand for locally produced food is sky high. A USDA Local Food Marketing Practices Survey identified over 167,000 operations across the nation selling food direct to consumers, retail, institutions and intermediaries; their sales accounted for $8.7 billion dollars in revenue. Ohio contributed $1.8 million to total direct food sales in 2015.

9.3 percent of U.S. livestock producers market products through direct sales channels. Beef, poultry, lamb, goats, pork, aquaculture and specialty animal products accounted for $648 million dollars in earnings according to the 2012 USDA Census of Agriculture.

Challenges of moving meat from farm to fork

There is a great opportunity to market local meat in Ohio and the region, but the opportunity comes with challenges. Raising animals for market takes a lot of time and effort. Farmers and ranchers have difficulty finding additional time to manage processing and distribution of meat products for direct sales.

Many farmers struggle to brand and package products in a way that appeals to consumers. They point out that agriculture, not marketing, is their area of expertise. Farmers may need to educate customers on the benefits of buying local meat. It can be a challenge to convince customers who are used to buying a tube of beef at a big box store for a fraction of the price and flavor that local meat is a better buy.

Securing a federally inspected meat processor is a major barrier to local meat production. The National Agricultural Statistics Service found the number of federally inspected cattle slaughter plants declined 12 percent between 2001 and 2013. As a result, producers have difficulty planning production to satisfy demand. They face long wait times; which may push an animal beyond target market weight range or maturity. Often farmers are forced to transport livestock long distances to slaughter.

Small operations may not produce a sufficient volume of meat to sell to restaurants, institutions and intermediaries. The alternative, selling local meat in low volume channels, may not generate enough revenue to support their livestock operation.

The cooperative business model is a solution

A cooperative is a business entity, like a partnership or limited liability company. However, cooperatives differ from other business structures because they are owned and controlled by the farmers that use their services. Other business entities aim to maximize profits; cooperatives aim to serve member-owners.

Cooperatives benefit farmers and ranchers in many ways. Multiple small operations may form a marketing cooperative to gain access to larger markets. Ohio farmers formed the Buckeye Valley Beef Cooperative to do just that. Founding member Adam Bolender said, We had all fed out freezer beef in the past. We wanted to merge together to make larger scale sales to grocery stores and butcher shops- that was the main idea behind starting a co-op. Today consumers can purchase Buckeye Valley Beef Cooperative products at five grocery stores, local butcher shops and direct from the farmers.

Scott Farms is a member of United Producers Inc., a large regional livestock marketing co-op. UPI honors members commitment to producing high-quality animals with special sales and premium marketing agreements. Erik Scott is a preferred member and delegate of UPI co-op. Erik shared, United Producers gives us an opportunity to step into markets that we may not have access to otherwise. It connects us with sale outlets across the country, and that connects us to the world market.

Learn how a cooperative can help your farm achieve goals at the Farm Science Review. Attend Local Meat and the Cooperative Business Model workshop, Thursday, September 21, 2017, at 11 a.m. at the Small Farm Center. The Small Farm Center is located at the corner of Beef St. and Corn Ave.

Resources

2015 Local Food Marketing Practices Survey, United States Department of Agriculture .

2012 Census of Agriculture, United States Department of Agriculture .

Overview of the United States Cattle Industry (June 2016). United States Department of Agriculture . National Agricultural Statistics Service.
A sheep has suffered serious injuries and has had to have its own tail amputated following a brutal dog attack.

The attack happened in Panshanger Park, Hertford at approximately 11am on Thursday (14 September).

It has been reported that an Alsatian was loose and savaged one of the 150 sheep grazing in a field.

Farmer Geoff Wiltshire responded to reports that one of his sheep had been hurt, and he found the seriously injured ewe lying down on its own.

The injured sheep has to receive emergency treatment at the Royal Veterinary College Farm Animal Clinical Centre in London.

The sheep was so badly injured that it had to have its tail amputated.

Over the past 12 months sheep from the flock at the park have been attacked on more than one occasion by out of control dogs.

In June, a Wiltshire farmer had to shoot dead a dog which ran havoc and savaged two of his sheep.

By law, dogs must be controlled so that they do not scare or disturb livestock or wildlife.
The UKs largest ever metaldehyde-free farming trial has been expanded again after successful second year results achieved a 93% drop in levels of the chemical detected in reservoir tributaries.

Year three of the 'Slug It Out' campaign will see it extended to include Covenham in Lincolnshire.

This is the first pumped catchment of the scheme, covering both the Long Eau and Great Eau Rivers, which supply Covenham Water Treatment Works.

This will more than double the trials hectarage again, bringing the total to 22,500ha.

Previously, farmers within the natural catchments of seven reservoirs in Northamptonshire, Rutland, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire, covering 10,000 hectares, have worked with Anglian Waters team of advisors on the Slug It Out campaign.

As part of the campaign all farmers have agreed to use alternatives to metaldehyde to control slugs on their land. The trial resulted in an estimated 2,111 kg of metaldehyde being removed from the farmed landscape.

This year, Covenham is the trials first pumped catchment which sees water transferred from Saltfleetby to the Louth Canal at Alvingham via a pumping system.

It is then stored at Covenham reservoir before being treated and sent to more than 100,000 homes across north-east Lincolnshire.

Around 90million litres of water a day are treated at Covenham Water Treatment Works and put into supply, making it a vital part of Anglian Waters network.

Drinking water standards

Slug It Out was first launched to look at how levels of metaldehyde in rivers and reservoirs could be brought below the drinking water standard of 0.1 micrograms per litre (or parts per billion) in treated water.

This is the same as one drop of water in an Olympic sized swimming pool.

Although Covenham Water Treatment Works can treat most pesticides, Metaldehyde is impossible to reduce via treatment alone. Metaldehyde is not harmful to humans at current concentrations but its presence at the levels found means UK drinking water breaches quality standards.

By the end of the second year, the maximum level of metaldehyde in reservoir tributaries fell by an average of 93%, compared to levels in 2014, while the average peak levels detected in the reservoirs fell by 37%. Reservoirs are filled by water pumped from nearby rivers as well as being fed by tributaries.

'Devastating pests'

Kelly Hewson-Fisher, Catchment Advisor for Lincolnshire, said: Although a 93% reduction is a fantastic result for these trial areas in our natural reservoir catchments, they represent only a fraction of the area that needs to be involved. And thats why were expanding the trial to understand how working at a larger scale might practically operate.

The results that weve gained from the Slug it Out trial have been invaluable in understanding how the land is managed in the Anglian region and the steps needed to ensure that both the water and agricultural sector have sustainable future approaches around metaldehyde use.

This wouldnt have been possible without the engagement of the farmers within the trial, so we want to say a huge thank you to them.

Slugs are one of the most devastating pests faced by UK farmers - wheat and oilseed rape are particularly affected.

Metaldehyde is currently the most popular pesticide for dealing with slugs  but the alternatives are growing in use, in particular those using the active ingredient ferric phosphate.

Ferric phosphate isnt as soluble in water as metaldehyde and therefore doesnt enter water courses to the same extent.
Holstein Young Breeders will be showcasing British farming when it welcomes an Australian exchange student this September.

Holstein Australia has announced the winner of their exchange programme, Emma Algie of South Gippsland, Australia.

The youth exchange between Australia and the UK is what many members of Holstein Young Breeders (HYB) aspire to take part in, and one of Holstein UKs biggest and best travel opportunities.

Emma will gain first-hand knowledge of how dairy farming in the UK compares to that of Australia, taking home vital understanding to develop her own career in agriculture.

Earlier in the year HYB member Andrew Patton, of Northern Ireland, was the UKs chosen candidate to visit Australia.

David Jupp, Chief Operations Officer, Holstein Australia, said: Holstein Australia is pleased to announce that Emma Algie is the winner of the Australia and UK exchange for 2017. Emma is understandably very excited and looking forward to the opportunity in September.

A very British tour

Emma hit the ground running by starting off with the UKs leading dairy event, UK Dairy Day, organised by Holstein UK and CIS.

She will then travel to Scotland to work on farm with Logan Holsteins, where she will be preparing animals ahead of the Scotland HYB Club Calf Show on 24th September.

Emma then jumps across the water to Northern Ireland to meet HYBs exchange winner, Andrew Patton of Ards Holsteins. From here she will spend a few days visiting farms and exploring the local area before travelling back to England on the 28th September.

After this, Emma travels to explore the West Country, spending time with various Holstein herds before attending the Dairy Show at the Bath & West Showground.

The final leg of the trip will take Emma to South Wales to visit various farms and enjoy some Welsh culture, before joining Staffordshire HYB for the All Breeds All Britain Calf Show.

Emma is a passionate and eager Holstein breeder. She currently works at Caldermeade Farm and Avonlea Holsteins in Gippsland, Victoria.

She says: I want to enhance my knowledge of dairy cattle, specifically for showing, breeding and milk production, as much as possible. I recently completed my AI and pregnancy testing tickets whilst completing a Cert IV in Agriculture and am trying to gain skills to enable me to improve my small herd of dairy cows as I love the industry and this is my future.

I am very interested in the breeding of cattle and what they do in the UK to ensure peak conception rates, what they look for in their bulls and their procedures for flushing and embryo transfers.
A nationwide campaign to support rural communities saw young farmers spend more than 4,000 hours fundraising and delivering community projects that benefited local residents, in time for the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) 85th birthday.

The NFYFC celebrates its 85th anniversary this week during National Young Farmers Week (18-24 September), following the successful campaign to support rural communities.

Members of the leading rural youth organisation spent more than 4,000 hours over the last year, as part of a nationwide campaign, fundraising and delivering community projects that benefited local residents.

The work was all part of an NFYFC campaign called the Countryside Challenge, funded by Pears Foundation and The Office for Civil Society.

Feedback from the campaign revealed that 100% of respondents who lived in the areas that benefited from a YFC project said that it would have a positive impact on their local community.

Survey findings also revealed how local communities viewed YFC members after the projects were completed, with the top three attributes for Young Farmers being friendly (95%), hard working (91%) and organised (87%). Other key qualities highlighted about YFC members were that they were inspiring and helpful.

Countryside Challenge

Projects ranged from cleaning up churchyards and village signs to hosting fundraising events to raise money for local causes.

NFYFC was able to give out 15,200 worth of funding to YFCs who applied for 400 to help them deliver their Countryside Challenge project.

This money paid for necessary tools and equipment or was reinvested back into club funds to help develop their club and activities for members.

Deputy Director of Pears Bridget McGing said: The YFCs taking part in the Countryside Challenge have been particularly impressive in their ability to organise and manage social action projects. From the ambitious scale of the projects devised by the clubs, through to the careful budgeting, reporting and risk assessments carried out, the YFCs have definitely demonstrated the extraordinary potential of young people.

As well as the Countryside Challenge, YFCs annually raise an estimated 1.2m for charity every year through fundraising and collectively spend thousands of hours supporting local community projects.

This amount is on top of the money they must raise to supplement the running costs of their clubs and the hours spent nurturing their members.

Communities and skills

This National Young Farmers Week, YFCs will be celebrating the positive impact they make on their rural communities and in developing young peoples skills.

The aim of the week is promote YFCs to more rural young people so they are aware of the benefits the Federation can offer them by providing an active social network and developing skills.

There are 24,500 members of NFYFC who are all offered opportunities to take on roles in their YFCs to help with the running, budgeting and management of their charity. There are also opportunities at a County, Area and National level as a member-led organisation.

NFYFCs President Charlotte Smith said: I am very proud to be the President of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs and want the nation to know more about one of our countrysides best kept secrets.

YFC is more than farming - its one of the only rural youth services we have that helps develop young peoples skills and provides a much-needed social network in the countryside. Heres to a successful National Young Farmers Week, raising awareness of this fantastic organisation and celebrating all that is great about our young people.
Yearsley herd reduction produces top of 7,800gns for cow and calf outfit
Budapest diaries. Shooting something special. Been working hard for this. Doing something new is always difficult but worth it #lovemyjob . Photo credit @aalimhakim oh and he also did my hair

A post shared by Varun Dhawan (@varundvn) on Sep 12, 2017 at 12:50am PDT
Tiger Shroff made his debut in 2014 and ever since then he has never failed to impress us with his dancing and action skills. Tiger who was seen in Sabbir Khans Baaghi in 2016 which went on to become a big hit, is all ready to shoot for its sequel Baaghi 2 which rolls out today in Pune. The movie will be directed by Ahmed Khan and will have Disha Patani as the leading lady.

Baaghi 2 will be Tigers 3rd collaboration with Sajid Nadiadwala after Heropanti and Baaghi. When asked about working with Sajid again, this is what he had to say, Im excited to work with Sajid sir again. I missed working with him. Hes family to me, not because I made my debut with his production, but he has been my mentor throughout my journey. Baaghi 2 is like returning to the home turf.

But that's not all, just Like Aamir Khan in Ghajini and Ranveer Singh in Bajirao Mastani, Tiger is all set to join the group of actors who shaved their head for a role. Yes, you heard it right. Tiger is going to go all chop chop for next film.

We are looking forward to see Tiger in his new look in Baaghi 2. The movie is slated to release on 27th April 2018.
Anushka Sharma is the latest Bollywood celebrity to come aboard Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the actor said she was honoured to be a part of the 'noble initiative'.

The 29-year-old star made the announcement on Twitter, where she also shared a letter from the PMO inviting her to join the the cleanliness drive.

"I am honoured to be a part of #SwachhBharat campaign and will do my best for the noble initiative of #SwachhataHiSeva," Anushka wrote alongside the invitation.

The document read, "In the coming days, we will commemorate Gandhi Jayanti. An inspiration to billions across generations and borders, Mahatma Gandhi recognised that our attitude towards cleanliness also reflects our attitude towards society. Bapu believed in achieving cleanliness through community participation..."

"Bapu also strongly believed that 'swachhata' is for each one of us to practise. Inspired by the noble thoughts and a faith in the spirit of 125 crore Indians, let us pledge towards cleanliness."

Shekhar Suman BRUTALLY INSULTS Kangana Ranaut Again!

It further urged the actor and the community to live life on the mantra of 'Swachhata Hi Seva'.

"A clean India is the most noble service we can do to the poor, downtrodden and the marginalised."

In one of her tweets, Anushka also wished Modi as he turned 67 today.

"Happy Birthday to our honourable PM @narendramodi ji. Thank you Sir for the invitation to join the #SwachhataHiSeva movement," she wrote.

Other B-Town stars who are a part of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan include names such as Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Aamir Khan and Vidya Balan.

Akshay Kumar-Bhumi Pednekar's recently-released Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was a love story against the backdrop of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
Ready, Steady, Roll

The actress has kick-started the second shooting schedule of the film in the picturesque locations of Kashmir.

She Has Got Company

Alia's bestie Akansha Ranjan is accompanying her on the sets. Here's a candid click.

Girls Wanna Have Fun

She is seen here spending some quality time with her girlfriends.

Bestie's Birthday

Amidst the busy shooting schedule, Alia even celebrated Akansha's birthday and wrote a special message for her.

Candid Click

Alia is seen here enjoying the beauty of nature.

So Cute Of Them!

Who cares a heartbreak when you have a bestie by your side.

Her Leaked Look

Meanwhile, some photos from the sets of Raazi are already doing the rounds on the internet where Alia is seen in a deglam avatar.

First Time Co-Star

The film has Alia sharing screen space with Vicky Kaushal for the first time.
Hypothetical

Imagine this. A guy in Florida shapes his finger like a gun and points his finger at a cop. As hes doing that, he tells the officer, I got you now! You may be thinking, Well, thats not a bright thing to do. Well, I dont disagree with you. The question that Id like you to ponder is, Is what he did a criminal offense?

Facts

Well, thats not an imaginary scenario. It happened. Not surprising to many, it happened here in Florida. (or Flori-duh, as many call it when hearing about stuff like this) Alex Romero, who allegedly has an extensive criminal record, actually chose to threaten an off-duty Hialeah police officer in this manner. The officer, Scarlett Hernandez, was picking up her daughter from daycare. The officer apparently had a number of previous run-ins with Romero and felt that her life was threatened by his actions.

Romeros attorneys argued that his actions are protected as free speech under the constitution. They challenged the statute used to charge Romero with threatening the officer. They argued that the law is way too broad and criminalizes speech and actions that are legally permissible. One of Romeros attorneys argued that no one has ever been injured or killed by someone pointing their finger at them in the shape of a gun. He maintains that there is no real objective threat from Romeros actions.

Prosecutors argue that these cases need to be handled on a case by case basis. They maintain that jurors should simply apply common sense to each case to determine whether the conduct is a threat or not.

Ruling

As a result of Romeros challenge to the statute, four Miami-Dade county court judges were empaneled to hear legal arguments. The ruling was that the statute is constitutional. That means that they found that the misdemeanor law under which Romero was charged does not infringe on his, or anyone elses right to free speech. Judge Maria Ortiz wrote, True threats to injure persons are not protected by the First Amendment. Romeros attorneys are considering appealing the judges decision.

Thoughts

Whether Romeros actions constitutes a crime or not hinges on the totality of the circumstances. This particular officer had a history with Romero. Apparently, it wasnt a pleasant one. Thus, this officer knew information about this alleged offender that a stranger wouldnt. That made the threat a lot more real and believable to her. Add to that what he did and how he did it, you can see how someone could reasonably feel threatened. I dont believe the judges ruling will be reversed should it be appealed.

This statute is similar to disorderly conduct. While many of the arrests made for disorderly conduct are meritless because the arrestees conduct is constitutionally protected, there are some disorderly conduct arrests that are legally justified. For example, the guy charged with disorderly conduct for yelling on a crowded street corner, the very disturbing words: The Holocaust never happened. Jews suck! should have his charges dropped as what hes spewing is constitutionally protected, albeit extremely offensive. On the other hand, the fella that yells Fire! in a crowded movie theater has committed a criminal offense. These cases, like the statute that Romero was charged under, should be handled on a case by case basis.

Conclusion

So, the first obvious lesson is dont mess with cops. The second lesson here is even when you think your behavior may be innocuous and non threatening, you may run into others who feel differently. As Ive noted in many other previous articles, there are limits on our freedom of speech.
Trading in and out of stocks may be exciting, but it's no way to build wealth. Buying shares of high-quality companies and holding on for the long haul is a far better alternative.

We asked three of our Foolish investors to each discuss one stock worthy of being bought and held for decades. Here's why they chose Pfizer (PFE 2.43%), Canadian National Railway (CNI 0.34%), and Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B 0.33%).

Dividends and durability

Keith Speights (Pfizer): Some stocks are like microwave ovens. They heat up quickly, but cool down just as fast. Other stocks are more like Crock-Pots. They're best left to simmer for a long period of time, with the end result being worth the wait. Pfizer definitely belongs to the latter category.

Pfizer has been around longer than most stocks on the market today, with the company beginning operations way back in 1849. Over the long run, the big-pharma stock has been a huge winner for investors who bought and held. That's especially true for those who reinvested dividends. An initial $10,000 investment in Pfizer stock 40 years ago, with dividends reinvested, would be worth more than $1.5 million today.

Dividends are still a key part of the investing premise for Pfizer, with the yield currently standing at nearly 3.8%. And while the drugmaker faces some headwinds as several products lose exclusivity, the long-term future for Pfizer appears to be bright.

Pfizer ranks third among all big-pharma companies in investing in research and development. The company's pipeline includes 32 late-stage programs. In addition, Pfizer awaits regulatory approval for 10 other programs.

Pfizer might not generate the turbocharged level of growth as some stocks. But with its attractive dividend and ability to keep producing more successful drugs, Pfizer looks to be one of the better buy-and-hold stocks around.

On the right track

Danny Vena (Canadian National Railway): Canadian National Railway is a best-in-class railroad and one of the premier dividend-growth stocks available. Its economic moat is matched only by the 21,000 miles of tracks that stretch from coast to coast. This little-engine-that-could has been generating impressive growth, up over 30% in the last 12 months. Its dividend currently yields 1.5%, with a payout ratio of only 30%, leaving plenty of room for future growth.

A recent expansion and upgrades to the Port of Prince Rupert, to which Canadian National has exclusive rights, has resulted in Canada's second-largest container terminal, increasing its annual capacity by 59%. Canadian National has pointed to this as a major growth driver over the next several years, and analysts have identified it as one of the company's "most prized corridors for growth." Geographically, it's the closest North American port to Asia, and has become a major destination for shipments to and from the region as it reduces shipping times by several days compared to other West Coast locations.

Canadian National, which is already North America's most efficient railroad, plans further investments, spending $2.6 billion to upgrade tracks and acquire 22 new locomotives.

In the most recent quarter, Canadian National grew revenue by 17% year over year, while net income increased 20% and free cash flow grew 39% over the prior-year quarter. These results were driven by revenue ton-miles -- the number of tons moved times the number of miles -- which grew 18%, while carloadings increased by 14%.

All aboard!

The best buy and hold stock

Tim Green (Berkshire Hathaway): You could buy an S&P 500 index fund, paying nearly 25 times trailing-12-month earnings, or you could buy shares of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, a collection of businesses and investments that has historically trounced the market, for about 20 times earnings. It seems like a no-brainer to me.

Berkshire has expanded its per-share book value, or assets minus liabilities, by 19% annually since 1965. The stock price has grown by 20.8% annually over that time. In contrast, the S&P 500, including dividends, has compounded at only a 9.7% annual rate.

This gap is almost certain to shrink in the coming years, given Berkshire's size. Valued at roughly $440 billion, the company will eventually run out of ideas big enough to move the needle. That may already be happening, with Berkshire sitting on nearly $100 billion of idle cash.

You shouldn't expect Berkshire stock to double the market from here on out. But you can view Berkshire as almost like an index fund, comprised of a large number of diversified companies and investments. The key difference is that Buffett has a knack for investing only in companies that maintain a durable competitive advantage. Over the coming decades, this pickiness should allow Berkshire to continue to perform well, even if it doesn't match its historical performance.
Crystal Dynamics' last Tomb Raider game was a reboot in the form of a gritty and action-heavy coming-of-age story. The studio's followup, Rise of the Tomb Raider, aims to get back to the franchise's roots with a renewed emphasis on exploration.

According to Crystal Dynamics' senior designer, Jeff Wajcs, one of the team's main priorities when approaching Rise was to put the "tomb" back in Tomb Raider. They aimed to create levels that were giant, inviting, traversable puzzles.

In order to do that, Wajcs and the rest of the design team tried to pinpoint what makes for a perfect puzzle experience for players.

Designing terrific tombs

"For me, the perfect puzzle exists at the intersection of economy of mechanics and compelling layout," says Wajcs. "By 'economy of mechanics,' I mean that the puzzle is lean and mean, with only as many objects and mechanics as it truly needs. Each object in the puzzle needs to contribute both to the solution and the players understanding of the solution, and it's more economical for one object to do two things than to have two objects."

To ensure each tomb is filled with purpose, it's important to identify an overarching goal early on. That goal, or as Wajcs calls it, Lara's "Big Problem," will inform everything else about the tomb.

"For me, the perfect puzzle exists at the intersection of economy of mechanics and compelling layout."

Wajcs says there are several questions the team asked themselves to make sure that their level layout was compelling. "Is it interesting to explore? Is it interesting to look at? Does the layout fit the puzzle like a glove, or is it squished and squashed in some places?"

Another key element of the tomb design was ensuring that Lara had a variety of unique things to clamber around on. "Different things can make a layout compelling," says Wajcs. "But in my experience, verticality and asymmetry always help."

Making it clear when players have hit a dead end

Once they've determined the form and layout of the puzzle, Wajcs and the Crystal Dynamics team set about disguising the obvious without ever overtly leading the player astray.

"I like to compare puzzles to mazes: there are a couple paths to the goals and there are a lot of dead ends," he says. "It's the designers job to communicate to the player when they have hit a dead end, and to encourage them forward when they are on a good path."

"A puzzles worst case scenario is when a player keeps trying something because they attribute failure to poor execution on their part."

He adds that play testing is essential to determining where those stopping points are. "A puzzles worst case scenario is when a player keeps trying something wrong because they attribute the failure to poor execution on their part. It's a dead end, but they don't not know it. A lot of design inaccuracies are flushed out by our play testers with no puzzle experience."

Wajcs points to one of Rise of the Tomb Raider's earlier tombs, the Ancient Cistern complex, as an example of how small tweaks here and there can completely alter the way a player engages with the environment.

"The puzzle has Lara throwing small explosives around a tomb in order to blow up various barriers, and there's also a sluice gate that affects the water level that Lara used to open by standing on a hanging platform," says Wajcs. "We had players enthusiastically throwing the explosives onto the platform because it seemed like the natural thing to do, even though it did not accomplish anything. Getting the explosives to land on the platform was also difficult, so players would spend a lot of time on it."

In response, they turned the platform into a simple bar that Lara could hang from. "It was a simple change that did not affect the puzzles solution, but it removed a very nasty dead end. A fair puzzle must be able to be completed and enjoyed by a wide spectrum of players."

Keeping it simple

"Puzzle engagement often comes down to pacing," says Wajcs. "Throwing 10 puzzle elements at a player at once will just bewilder them. It is much better to control the order in which the player learns things."

He says that one of his tricks is to make the first couple of interactions as free and easy as possible. "It's what I call the puzzles 'Onramp.' The player makes progress, gains some momentum to encourage them further, learns a bit about the puzzle, and, most importantly, formulates expectations for what comes next."

Most of the puzzles in Rise were engineered with simplicity in mind. "Many of our puzzles are simple on purpose, and the rest have enough different moving parts that we have plenty of ways of tuning difficulty."

Wajcs says that keeping puzzles simple also gives the developer more control: the less complex a puzzle is, the more easily it can be adapted and fine tuned.

"A puzzle is never quite right on the first implementation," he says. "Puzzles that are too simple or too hard can always evolve towards a more balanced difficulty. That is often the biggest part of a puzzle designers job."
Bad news; Moto G4 Plus is not getting Android Oreo update News oi -Chandrika The Moto G4 Plus was originally launched in 2016 with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow operating system.

When it comes to pushing out regular software updates, Motorola doesn't disappoint its fans. That being said, the company is now being accused of having made a false promise.

When the Moto G4 Plus was launched, Motorola promised that the phone would be updated to Android Oreo. However, the official list containing the names of the Moto phones that would receive the Android Oreo update, doesn't include any phones from the Moto G4 series. What's more, to hide the evidence, Motorola has even modified the original Moto G4 Plus poster.

The original poster (via Android Police) assured both Android N and O updates for the smartphone. However, the current poster just mentions Android N. Even the Amazon India's landing page of Moto G4 Plus now has the modified poster.

Motorola India confirmed that moto g4 plus will receive android oreo..but no specific time..being a lenovo moto i think at least 1 year wait pic.twitter.com/k1l8LVY7aM  Krishnendu Ballav (@KrishnenduBall2) September 15, 2017

Moreover, it seems like Motorola itself has not made up its mind over the Moto G4 Plus. Just three days back, someone asked Motorola via Twitter if the Moto G4 Plus will be updated to Android Oreo. Much to the user's happiness, the official Twitter handle of the company replied affirmatively. Here comes the twist, the tweet made by Motorola was quickly pulled down.

Needless to say, fans are not too happy about it. One Redditor asks "Isn't Motorola selling a product by deceiving customers using false information?" Well, Motorola has not yet made any announcements regarding this matter. Hopefully, they will come up with an explanation for all the confusion.

The Moto G4 Plus was originally launched in 2016 with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow operating system. So it was quite expected that the smartphone would be upgraded to Android 8.0.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications
Nokia 8 Android Oreo update is under testing; measures 1.3GB News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu Nokia 8 will soon get the stable Oreo update.

Nokia 8, the flagship smartphone launched by HMD Global seems to be all set to receive the Android 8.0 Oreo update soon. It is not pretty surprising as the company had already announced that all the Nokia Android smartphones will get two years of OS update support.

Recently, the Nokia 8 was spotted on the Geekbench benchmark database running on Android 8.0 Oreo. This benchmark listing tipped that the rollout of the Oreo update isn't going to a long wait for the Nokia fans. Also, it hinted that Google is testing the Oreo update on the Nokia flagship. Over the weekend, further confirmation regarding the Nokia 8 Android Oreo update has emerged online.

Well, Juho Sarvikas, the Chief Product Officer at HMD Global took to his Twitter handle to share a couple of interesting images. By sharing these images, it can be told that he has clarified the doubts regarding the rollout of the update to the Nokia 8.

The images he has shared on Twitter show the spectacular view from his Dubai office. For now, the changelog that the update will bring to the Nokia 8 is not revealed though we know that it will bring in the Oreo goodies to the device. The one thing that has been revealed is that the Android 8.0 Oreo update is pretty heavy measuring 1.3GB in size. And, there is no denying that this is a hefty one.

Sarvikas has revealed in the tweet that the update will be rolled out when it is perfect. This statement tips that the update will be rolled out only when the testing is successful.

Given that the Nokia 8 is all set to be released in the major global markets by the end of September or October, we can expect the update to be rolled out to the units of this smartphone sometime in October.

Notably, we would like to make it clear that the Nokia 8 is not the only smartphone from HMD to taste the Android Oreo flavor. Recently, Sarvikas took to Twitter to assure the fans that the brand will roll out the major OS update to all the Nokia-branded Android smartphones including the entry-level Nokia 3.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications
Vodafone join hands with Lava, offers cash back to feature phone users News oi -Priyanka The cash back will be available to the customers who have either purchased a new Lava feature phone and have subscribed to a new Vodafone prepaid number.

India's second largest telecom service provider Vodafone India has announced its tie-up with mobile handset maker Lava in which the company is offering complete cash back worth Rs 900 to its customers on the purchase of the new feature handset.

The offer, valid until 31st October 2017 is available for both new and existing Vodafone customers.

The offer provides Vodafone customers a great opportunity to purchase a new Lava feature phone. Upon purchasing a Lava phone, Vodafone customers can avail cashback worth Rs 50 for 18 months on minimum recharge of Rs 100 in a calendar month. With the credited talk time of Rs 50 every month, customers can enjoy an assured Rs 900 in 18 months - which covers the cost of a new handset purchase in most instances.

Avneesh Khosla, Associate Director - Consumer Business, Vodafone India said, "We are confident that the complimentary offerings from Vodafone will make the experience more seamless at affordable rates. This collaboration will enable our existing and prospective customers to make the most out of their new device purchase."

Commenting on the offer, Gaurav Nigam, Senior VP, Head of Product, LAVA International said, "Our partnership with Vodafone will provide our customers a cash back amount which is equivalent to the cost of our highest selling feature phone Captain N1. With this offer, we are certain to fulfill our promise of a pleasant experience to our patrons with continued reliability on their LAVA devices. Our customers can choose any device from a strong portfolio of feature phones to avail this offer."

The cash back will be available to the customers who have either purchased a new Lava feature phone and have subscribed to a new Vodafone prepaid number. It is also applicable for consumers who are already using a Lava feature phone and have purchased a new Vodafone SIM or an active Vodafone user who has purchased a new LAVA feature phone. The offer enables customers to enjoy multiple Vodafone services like voice, SMS or Value-Added Service, other than pay by balance and international roaming.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications
NATO to decide on increased Afghan deployment in one month

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 01:48PM

Senior authorities in the NATO military alliance have announced that a decision on sending more troops to Afghanistan as requested by the United States will take at least one month to take shape.

NATO Supreme Allied Commander US General Curtis Scaparrotti said Sunday that the NATO Military Committee, which comprises defense chiefs from 29 member countries of the organization, would give a firm answer to a US request for increased troop contribution in Afghanistan in its next meeting in October.

Scaparrotti made the remarks after a meeting of the NATO committee in Tirana. The US military commander did not reveal the details of the discussions but hinted that members had in general accepted US requests for increased troops on the ground in Afghanistan.

The commander said that the coalition was seeking more troops in Afghanistan to facilitate training and equipping of the Afghan military in the fight against militants.

"What we would like NATO to provide: TAA actually, that's train, advise and assist," Scaparrotti said, adding, "(There's an) effect on the morale of the Afghan troops when it's their own airforce support. So to the extent that we can get more advisers in there we can effect a faster development of their force, and it's better for everyone."

General Petr Pavel, who heads NATO Military Committee, said in Tirana that all defense chiefs in the meeting recognized the need to fill current shortfalls in Afghanistan. However, he said any response to the question of increased deployment would be made when the ministers consult their respective governments.

More than 16 years after the occupation of Afghanistan, the United States and allies in NATO still struggle to maintain security in the country. The coalition transferred security responsibilities to the Afghan forces in 2014 in a bid to end its long-standing mission there although some 13,000 NATO soldiers, most of them from the US, are still stationed in Afghanistan.

That comes as the Taliban, the militant force that ruled the country before the 2001 invasion, is regaining territories in south and north while defectors of the group are helping Daesh Takfiri terrorists to launch their own attacks in Afghanistan. US President Donald Trump has allowed the deployment of another 4,000 US troops in Afghanistan while he has repeatedly urged other NATO members to contribute more.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told NATO allies in June that it was a responsibility for the alliance to finish its job in Afghanistan or risk allowing the militancy to bloom.

"The bottom line is that NATO has made a commitment to Afghanistan for freedom from fear and terror, and freedom from terror demands that you can't let this be undone," he said at the time.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hamas accepts Fatah reconciliation conditions, including vote in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 05:58AM

Hamas says it has accepted "key" reconciliation conditions offered by rival Fatah party's head Mahmoud Abbas, including nationwide elections in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palestinian resistance movement underlined its "desire to achieve national unity" after a 10-year rift that has left Palestinians divided between two governments.

Hamas has been running the Gaza Strip since 2006 when it scored a landslide victory in Palestinian parliamentary elections, leaving Abbas in control only of the autonomous areas of the West Bank.

Hamas said it had agreed to dissolve an administrative committee that runs Gaza, invite the Palestinian Authority led by waAbbas to return to Gaza and hold new elections.

The statement followed negotiations held last week in Cairo between the movement's officials and a delegation sent by Abbas.

Hamas has fought off three Israeli wars on Gaza and been managing the coastal enclave's affairs in the face of a crippling Israeli siege.

Abbas's government has compounded the misery of the Gazans through "punitive measures" which it has imposed to squeeze Hamas and force it to relinquish the control of the enclave.

Among a series of economic sanctions has been the reduction of payments for Gaza electricity, which has prompted Israel to drastically cut power supply to the territory of 1.8 million residents to less than four hours a day.

Last month, Abbas threatened to gradually cut financial support to the impoverished strip "by 100 percent" until Hamas agreed to reconcile with Fatah. The overall deprivations are estimated to render Gaza uninhabitable by 2020.

Hamas has shunned contacts with Israel, while the Palestinian Authority maintains security coordination with Tel Aviv.

The coordination and whether Hamas would subject its security forces to the Palestinian Authority command have persistently thrown off the prospect of reconciliation between the Palestinian factions.

The Sunday statement stopped short of offering information about either issue.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US to expand Afghan capital's security zone to extend military presence

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 02:11AM

The US military is planning to expand boundaries of the Green Zone in the Afghan capital Kabul in an effort to not only bring nearly all Western embassies, NATO and American military headquarters within the protected area, but to prolong US military presence in the country well into the 2020s.

US military authorities recently appointed an American brigadier general to oversee the project of greatly expanding and fortifying the Green Zone in Kabul, The New York Times reported Saturday.

After the completion of the huge project, the report noted, American Embassy staff in Kabul "will no longer need to take a Chinook helicopter ride to cross the street to a military base less than 100 yards outside the present Green Zone security district."

After 16 years of the US-led military presence in the Afghan capital, it added, the expansion project serves as a "stark acknowledgment that even the city's central districts have become too difficult to defend" against persisting terror bombings by Taliban insurgents.

This is while the US claimed at the outset of its military invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 that the occupation was aimed at rooting out the Taliban terrorists across the war-torn country.

The Green Zone expansion project, which will significantly limit access to the Afghan capital, was prompted by a massive truck bombing at a gate of the current zone on May 31, killing over 150 people and destroying most of the German Embassy.

In the first stage of the project  expected to take six to 12 months  an expanded Green Zone will be established, covering nearly 1.86 square miles  up from 0.71 miles  closing off streets within it to all but official traffic.

In the final stage, a larger Blue Zone will be created, covering most of the city center, where severe restrictions on movement  particularly by trucks  will be imposed. Eventually, all trucks seeking to enter Kabul will be routed through a single portal, where they will be X-rayed and searched.

The project is also aimed at protecting "another long-term American investment," given the troop surge in the country to 15,000 from the existing 11,000 as the Trump administration's new Afghan strategy calls for continued US military presence there well into the 2020s.

Unlike former US President Barack Obama, Trump has suggested that American forces should remain in Afghanistan until victory, although his own generals have admitted that a total military victory in the terror-ravaged country is not possible.

The US military mission in Afghanistan is expected to continue for many more years, despite its unpopularity with the American public and the rest of the world.

"It seems America is not yet ready to end the longest war in its history," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid after Trump announced his new Afghan policy. "As Trump stated, 'Americans are weary of the long war in Afghanistan.' We shall cast further worry into them and force American officials to accept realities."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






World Leaders Gather For Opening Of UN General Assembly

RFE/RL September 17, 2017

Global leaders will gather at the United Nations on September 18 as the debate session of the world body's General Assembly officially begins.

Much of the attention will be on U.S. President Donald Trump, who will make his debut at the 193-member UN with a speech on September 19. French President Emmanuel Macron is also scheduled to make his first appearance as a national leader.

Among those not scheduled to attend are Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has only made rare visits to the UN, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Both are sending their foreign ministers.

The event will also mark the debut of the new UN chief, Antonio Guterres, the former Portuguese prime minister who will preside over the Assembly's general debate, which runs through September 25.

The leaders will attempt to focus on several world flash points, with North Korea's continued defiance of the UN ban on its nuclear and ballistic-missile programs likely to be issue No. 1.

The UN Security Council and nearly all nations individually have condemned Pyongyang's missile tests, the latest of which came on September 15 when North Korea fired a ballistic projectile that flew over Japan.

The Council called the launch "highly provocative" and an "outrageous action."

Still, not all nations are in agreement about how far the world body should go with enhanced sanctions against Pyongyang -- China and Russia have rejected a U.S. call to take more "direct actions" to deter the North.

Pyongyang will be sending a low-level representative to the Assembly.

Also facing the world leaders is a humanitarian crisis involving some 400,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees who have fled violence in Burma and are languishing in camps in Bangladesh.

Terrorism and global warming -- and U.S. intentions in regard to the Paris climate accords -- are also likely to be the subject of intense discussion, and disagreement, among world leaders.

In the past, Trump has been a vocal critic of the UN, and aides say he will be pushing "U.N. reform" -- mainly looking for members to contribute more to global projects, including peacekeeping operations, which cost some $8 billion a year.

Jon B. Alterman, a senior vice president at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, told The New York Times that "the world is still trying to take the measure of this president."

"For a number of leaders, this is going to be their first chance to see him, to judge him, to try to get on his good side," he said.

With reporting by AP, dpa, USA Today, and The New York Times

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/united-nations-russia- korea-trump-putin/28740705.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Defence Secretary strengthens UK-Qatar Defence relationship

17 September 2017

Today the Defence Secretary has welcomed Qatar's intent to proceed with the purchase of Typhoon aircraft and the further strengthening of the United Kingdom's defence relationship with the State of Qatar.

During a visit to the Gulf state today, Sir Michael Fallon and his Qatari counterpart, Khalid bin Mohammed al Attiyah, signed a Statement of Intent concerning Qatar's proposed purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft.

The UK and Qatar share a close and longstanding Defence relationship, and today's Statement of Intent further reinforces this, deepening military cooperation between the two, and the opportunity to further enhance the security of all partners in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:

"After a number of years of negotiations between our two countries, I am delighted to have been able to sign today with Qatar's Defence Minister, this Statement of Intent on the purchase of 24 Typhoon aircraft by Qatar."

"This will be the first major defence contract with Qatar, one of the UK's strategic partners. This is an important moment in our defence relationship and the basis for even closer defence co-operation between our two countries. We also hope that this will help enhance security within the region across all Gulf allies and enhance Typhoon interoperability across the GCC."

"The security of the GCC, of all Gulf countries, is critical to the UK's own security."

The UK and Qatar share mutual Defence interests, including countering violent extremism, and ensuring peace and stability in the region.

Not only will the purchase of Typhoon aircraft further strengthen this strong bilateral relationship, it will benefit Qatar's military capability, and increase security co-operation and interoperability between the UK and Qatar and other GCC Typhoon partners.

The Typhoon is a multi-role combat aircraft that has long-term potential to be at the forefront of air power for many years, and today's Statement of Intent demonstrates continued confidence in Typhoon and British manufacturing.

In addition to supporting Royal Air Force operations protecting the UK in the skies above Britain and globally, the Typhoon has already been purchased by eight nations around the world.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Fatah Group Urges Hamas to Implement Reconciliation Accord

By Edward Yeranian September 17, 2017

Following days of talks Egyptian mediators have gotten rival Palestinian factions to agree to reconcile, although Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah group is insisting rival Hamas implement the conditions it has agreed to before taking the next step.

Efforts to resolve a decade-old schism between the two main Palestinian factions appears to be coming closer to fruition, after Egyptian mediators succeeded in convincing the Islamist Hamas group, which controls Gaza to agree to dissolve its Gaza Administrative Committee that governs the territory sandwiched between Egypt and Israel.

The agreement calls for new Palestinian elections in Gaza and the West Bank next year.

Despite the new accord, the Fatah group is insisting Hamas start implementing the deal before any further steps are taken.

It remains unclear if Hamas will agree to another key demand and allow European Union monitors and Egyptian border officials to take control of the main Rafah border post between Egypt and Gaza, officially closed since Hamas refused to uphold a 2005 agreement with Israel, necessitating the presence of EU monitors at the border.

Despite the new accord, the Fatah group is insisting Hamas start implementing the deal before any further steps are taken.

It remains unclear if Hamas will agree to another key demand and allow European Union monitors and Egyptian border officials to take control of the main Rafah border post between Egypt and Gaza, officially closed since Hamas refused to uphold a 2005 agreement with Israel, necessitating the presence of EU monitors at the border.

Multiple efforts to mediate an agreement between the two parties have failed since they fell out with one another in 2007.

Egyptian Parliament Member Emad Gad told Saudi-owned Al- Arabiya TV that Hamas probably agreed to the deal because it is no longer able to pay its employees.

Qatar, which used to finance a large chunk of Hamas' operating budget, has been under financial pressure since a June 2017 economic boycott by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt.

Following days of negotiations in Cairo, Palestinian Authority official Nabil Sha'ath told Arab media Egypt has once again become the top power-broker in Gaza.

He says Egypt controls Gaza's only border with the world, with the exception of crossings into Israel, and that Egypt has taken the role of top negotiator since a recent deal with Hamas regarding the Sinai.

U.N. Special Coordinator for the Middle East peace process, Nickolay Mladenov, said in a tweet Sunday he welcomes "the recent statement by Hamas announcing the dissolving of [its] administrative committee in Gaza," and that he hoped "the Palestinian parties will use Cairo momentum to address the Gaza humanitarian situation..."

University of Paris Political Science Professor Khattar Abou Diab tells VOA the opportunity for an accord appeared after the conflict between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and its allies broke out in June.

He said Qatar cut its financial subsidies to Hamas after the conflict with Saudi Arabia and its allies erupted in June and that put a great deal of pressure on Hamas to resolve its financial crisis.

But Abou Diab says he is "prudent" about the chances of the latest deal succeeding, since "neither Hamas nor Fatah have kept their word," following previous mediation efforts in Mecca, Doha and in Cairo.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Palestinian Fundamentalist Group Hamas Takes Steps to Rejoin Secular Rival Fatah

Sputnik News

08:05 17.09.2017(updated 15:03 17.09.2017)

In 2007 a conflict between Fatah, then dominant Palestinian political party, and the Islamic fundamentalist organization Hamas led to the split of the Palestinian Authority and Hamas taking over the Gaza Strip. The decision of Hamas to finally hold negotiations with Fatah may indicate the first steps towards reconciliation.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The Islamist Palestinian movement Hamas has announced that it has decided to dissolve its administrative committee and expressed a readiness to launch talks with the Fatah movement.

According to the fundamentalist organization's statement, Hamas is also ready to hold general elections.

Earlier this week, Hamas already showed its readiness to dissolve the committee and to transmit its powers to the unity government.

The conflict between Hamas and Fatah escalated in 2007, leading to a split and Hamas' takeover of the Gaza Strip. Repeated attempts have been made by regional forces to achieve a reconciliation between the two parties, but all efforts have so far failed.

In January, Fatah and Hamas agreed to form a unity government after three days of talks in Moscow, however, no further success has been achieved so far.

In August, reports emerged that Hamas had unveiled a new initiative aimed at reaching reconciliation with the Ramallah-based Fatah. The initiative reportedly envisaged the dissolution of Hamas' administrative committee, established in March to coordinate the work of Gaza's public institutions. Fatah has repeatedly criticized the committee, claiming that it prevents the unity government from operating in the area.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Second Arrest Over London Subway Bombing

September 17, 2017

Police in Britain say a second man has been arrested in connection with a bomb attack on the London metro that injured more than two dozen.

The capital's Metropolitan Police said on September 17 that the 21-year-old man, who was not identified, was arrested in Hounslow, west London, late on September 16.

The announcement comes after police said they had evacuated a residential address in the small town of Sunbury, southern England, and were searching the property.

A suspect in the subway bombing was detained in the port city of Dover on September 16 in what they described as a "significant" development.

A bucket packed with nails and explosives blew up on a crowded subway train at London's Parsons Green station on September 15, injuring 30 people.

The station has reopened for service.

Meanwhile, Britain's terror threat level was downgraded from critical to severe after the investigation into the attack progressed.

"Following the attack on Parsons Green last Friday, the police have made good progress with what is an ongoing operation," Home Secretary Amber Rudd said in a September 17 televised statement.

"The Joint Terrorism Analysis Center, which reviews the threat level the U.K. is under, has decided to lower that level from critical to severe," Amber added.

Severe, the second highest level, means an attack is highly likely.

The Islamic State extremist group, through its Amaq propaganda agency, claimed responsibility for the attack, the fifth in Britain this year. But police said that claim could not be verified.

Based on reporting by dpa, AFP, AP, and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/uk-second-arrest-london- subway-bombing/28740169.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Britain Eases Threat Level After Police Arrest Second Suspect

By VOA News September 17, 2017

Britain eased its terrorist threat level Sunday from "critical" to "severe" after police arrested a second suspect in the bombing of a subway train in London.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said the second arrest was an indication that "good progress" was being made int the investigation of Friday's attack that injured 30 people, all but one of whom have now been released from hospitals.

The "severe" threat level indicates British authorities now believe another attack is highly likely, while the "critical" designation meant an attack was seen as imminent.

Police said in they arrested a 21-year-old man in the west London suburb of Hounslow, which is home to London's Heathrow Airport, just before midnight Saturday. He was arrested under Britain's Terrorism Act.

Authorities searched a home in the London suburb of Stanwell, also neighboring Heathrow Airport, that was linked to the second suspect, who was not identified.

Earlier Saturday, an 18-year-old man was arrested in the port area of Dover, a major ferry terminal for travel between Britain and France.

"He was arrested on the suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism," Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner Neil Basu said at a Saturday news conference.

Basu said the first arrest was "significant." Following that arrest, police evacuated the Dover port and a suburban London neighborhood as they searched a nearby house.

Residents of the neighborhood say the house that was searched is occupied by an elderly couple  Penelope and Ronald Jones  who have taken care of foster children for decades. Queen Elizabeth honored them for their efforts in 2010.

Basu said a "number of items" were recovered from the Dover terminal, without giving further details.

Basu also said investigators were keeping an "open mind" as to whether more than one person was involved in the attack.

"We are still pursuing numerous lines of inquiry, and at a great pace," Basu said. "Our priorities... are to identify and locate any other suspects," he added.

Islamic State jihadists claimed responsibility for the attack, but Home Secretary Rudd discounted it.

"It is inevitable that so-called Islamic State or Daesh will try to claim responsibility, but we have no evidence to suggest that yet," she told the BBC. Rudd said authorities will try to determine how the suspects may have been radicalized.

Earlier, she had dismissed as "pure speculation" U.S. President Donald Trump's claim, made Friday on Twitter, that a "loser terrorist" behind the attack was known to Scotland Yard.

British Prime Minister Theresa May had already rebuked the U.S. leader for the remark, saying, "I never think it's helpful for anybody to speculate on what is an ongoing investigation."

London Transport authorities said Saturday they have re-opened the Parsons Green station where the bomb on a train partially detonated.

Images of the bomb posted on social media appear to show a bucket on fire that had been placed inside a plastic bag close to a rail car door.

May said the public may see more armed police on the streets and the transport network. The prime minister also said members of the military will begin aiding police, providing security at some sites not accessible to the public.

The blast was the fifth major terrorist attack in Britain this year.

London police said their investigation into Friday's attack is being supported by MI-5, Britain's domestic intelligence agency.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said the British capital "will never be intimidated or defeated by terrorism."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






British terrorism threat level lowered from "critical" to "severe"

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:10, September 18, 2017

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said on Sunday that the United Kingdom's terrorism threat level has been lowered from "critical" to "severe" after being raised to the highest possible in the wake of the Friday explosion at a subway station in west London.

Rudd made the statement after British police arrested two suspects in connection of the explosion in a packed rush-hour carriage on Friday at Parsons Green subway station.

The level of "critical", the highest of the five levels used to describe the threat, means a further terrorist attack may be imminent. The level of "severe" is the second highest level.

The threat level system, introduced on Aug. 1, 2000, is based on available intelligence, terrorist capability, terrorist intention and timescale.

The two suspects -- one is 18 and the other is 21 -- were arrested by British police on Saturday.

Thirty people were injured in the explosion, none of them seriously, in the wake of the subway blast, prompting the police to stage a massive hunt for those who are responsible for the fifth terrorist attack in the country over the past six months.

Previous attacks in London this year at Westminster Bridge, London Bridge and Finsbury Park as well as a blast at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester killed dozens of people and injured more than 150.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the Friday subway explosion.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese FM Wang Yi in Panama to open new embassy

People's Daily Online

(CNTV) 11:27, September 17, 2017

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is in Panama to inaugurate China's embassy following the establishment of diplomatic relations agreed in summer. The facility will provide a visible symbol of the new diplomatic ties between the countries, and could open the floodgates to new Chinese investment.

Wang arrived in Panama City on Saturday for his first official visit, and was received by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and Vice President Isabel De Saint Malo in the Palace of Las Garzas.

Before chairing the opening of the embassy, Wang will have a private talk with Varela to discuss 12 priority points set out in the new bilateral agenda, including tourism, trade and security, De Saint Malo explained earlier this week.

Wang's visit to Panama comes three months after the Central American country established diplomatic relations with China and severed its ties with Taiwan.

In practice, China and Panama had close contacts for decades. Panama has the largest Chinese community in Central America, and China is the second-biggest user of the Panama Canal.

"Before these diplomatic relations, there were companies that did not feel comfortable coming to Panama and investing here," said the country's vice foreign minister, Luis Miguel Hincapie. "We believe that now this will change, and more business will come."

There are still a few other countries in the region that do not have diplomatic relations with Beijing. "Panama's decision sets an example and sends a very clear message to other countries in Central America and the Caribbean," said Wang Weihua, the charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy.

Before his visit to Panama, the Chinese foreign minister also met with Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Solis and the foreign minister in San Jose.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






South Korea, US agree on putting more pressure on North Korea: Seoul

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 07:33AM

South Korean President Moon Jae-in and his American counterpart, Donald Trump, have reportedly agreed to exert extra pressure on North Korea.

South Korea's presidential office spokesman Park Soo-hyun said on Sunday that Moon and Trump had in a Sunday telephone conversation strongly condemned the latest missile launch by North Korea and agreed to work with the international community to implement the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)'s latest resolution against Pyongyang.

"The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation, and exert stronger and practical sanctions on North Korea so that it realizes provocative actions lead to further diplomatic isolation and economic pressure," he said.

UNSC resolution 2375

On Monday, the UNSC unanimously voted to adopt new sanctions against North Korea over its missile and nuclear activities. The resolution, drafted by the US, was the eighth against Pyongyang over its ballistic missile and nuclear programs since 2006.

The new sanctions against Pyongyang would cut 90 percent of the country's yearly trade and 30 percent of its annual oil imports.

On Friday, North Korea fired a medium-to-long range Hwasong-12 missile over Japan a few hours after it threatened to "sink" its southeastern neighbor. The missile flew for about 20 minutes before crashing into the Pacific Ocean about 2,000 kilometers east of Japan's Hokkaido.

It had fired another missile over Japan days earlier.

North Korea says its missile and nuclear programs are meant to defend it against US hostility. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently said he sought "equilibrium" in military power with the US.

The US, an ally of Japan that has extensive military presence in the region, has reacted harshly to North Korea's missile launches in particular and the weapons programs in general.

Tensions have significantly increased in recent months, and Russia, China, France, Iran, and the UN have called for dialog to resolve the issue.

The crisis is expected to dominate the annual high-level UN General Assembly agenda this week. The UN's secretary general is scheduled to hold talks with representatives from all the sides to the conflict, including with North Korea's Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Africa's Ties to North Korea Extend Beyond Isolated Military Deals

By Salem Solomon September 17, 2017

As the U.N. investigates at least seven African countries for possible violations of United Nations sanctions on North Korea, many other countries across the continent have, in recent years, deepened their economic ties to the reclusive Asian regime.

From 2000 to 2015, exports from North Korea to Burkina Faso, Mozambique and Zambia increased by an average annual growth rate of 1.58 percent. Imports from Benin, Senegal and Mozambique saw an average annual growth rate of 1.84 percent during the same period. Across Africa, goods traded with North Korea span an array of sectors and amount to more than $100 million annually.

Dismissals, denials

The U.N. sanctions, which were first imposed in 2006, focus on arms embargoes and trade restrictions amid ongoing concerns about the development of North Korea's nuclear weapons program.

The countries under review are accused of receiving military assistance from North Korea. According to the U.N., Pyongyang has conducted military training in Angola, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo; attempted to ship military communications equipment to Eritrea; shipped arms to Mozambique; repaired military equipment in Tanzania; and built military-related facilities in Namibia.

Countries accused of violating the sanctions have denied wrongdoing or dismissed the U.N.'s legitimacy.

A government spokesperson for Mozambique said the country has not violated U.N. sanctions against North Korea, but it will cooperate with the team investigating alleged wrongdoing.

Richard Karemire, a spokesperson for the Ugandan army, said his country is fully aware of the 2016 U.N. resolution and has terminated military training engagements with North Korea.

In a written response, Eritrea's foreign ministry questioned the U.N. panel's mandate and authority, without addressing whether they have ties to Pyongyang.

Burkina Faso's foreign minister, Alpha Barry, expressed shock and dismay at the possibility his nation collaborated with North Korea.

"We have no trace of any trade with North Korea," Barry said. Any trade that has occurred likely involved intermediaries in Switzerland, according to Barry.

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Burkina Faso released a statement urging all businesses in the country to halt trade with North Korea "in the light of the current context, so that our country is in sync with the international sanctions against this country and to protect our good relations of cooperation with the United States of America."

Other countries maintain that their relationships were strictly with private entities in North Korea, not the government.

"We had a business relationship with North Korean companies and not the government," said Augustine Mahiga, Tanzania's foreign minister.

Extensive deals

However, Pyongyang's economic ties to Africa have been pervasive. Twenty-nine African nations import goods from North Korea, and 19 nations export goods to North Korea, according to 2015 data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity, a project at MIT's Media Lab.

The deals are small from the perspective of the African nations, accounting for a very small percentage of their total imports and exports.

For the top African importer, Burkina Faso, trade with North Korea accounts for $32.8 million, or 1 percent, of annual imports. For the top African exporter, Senegal, North Korean trade accounts for $7.82 million, or 0.29 percent, of annual exports.

Compared to China's trade deals with North Korea, which exceeded $5 billion in 2015, the entire African continent imports just $100 million and exports just $17.5 million of goods from North Korea.

But, the tens of millions of dollars a year make a difference across the continent in a range of sectors. From Senegal and Guinea, North Korea imports frozen and fresh fish; from Benin, North Korea imports raw cotton and scrap iron; from South Africa, they import refined petroleum and various other goods. And, from Burkina Faso, North Korea imports vegetable products.

Exported goods from North Korea are similarly diverse. North Korea exports refined petroleum to Burkina Faso and Benin. To Zambia, Mozambique and Egypt, North Korea exports cars, plastics, rubbers and dozens of other goods.

In 2015, the top five African countries imported more than $73 million in goods from North Korea, and exports from the top five African countries to North Korea added up to $15 million.

Ongoing investigation

Trade deals with North Korea are not violations in and of themselves, and many countries have at least minimal economic ties to the regime.

But, the U.N. continues to investigate at least seven African countries, along with Syria, for possible sanctions violations. The update released earlier this month shows the investigation has changed little since February, when an initial report was published.

Unresponsiveness from the continent as a whole has stymied the U.N.'s efforts. In February, 43 African countries had not submitted national implementation reports (NIRs) for sanctions related to Resolution 2270. These NIRs detail how member states are carrying out approved sanctions. The number of countries that had not filed reports had decreased to 40 by September.

Resolution 2270 called for U.N. member states to inspect all cargo destined for or originating from North Korea and halt trade of numerous goods, including aviation fuel, coal, iron, iron ore, gold and rare earth minerals.

Increased vigilance is necessary, the U.N. says, because Pyongyang continues to find ways to sidestep sanctions, sometimes by duping member states.

According to the U.N.'s latest report, "financial institutions in numerous Member States wittingly and unwittingly have provided correspondent banking services to front companies and individuals of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea engaged in prohibited activities."

Bagassi Koura, Anabela Guedes, Athumani Halima Asijo, and Khalid Ali Abubakar contributed to this report.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran warns US against continuation of anti-Iran policies

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Sep 17, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi on Sunday warned the US about continuation of anti-Iran policies and urged Whitehouse officials to adopt a rational approach towards the Islamic Republic of Iran.

'US decision-makers should have a deeper look at the consequences of their wrong and failed anti-Iranian hostile policies,' Qasemi made the remarks on Sunday in reaction to the recent Washington sanctions against Iranian individuals and entities.

'US accusations about Iranian citizens' cyber attack are baseless,' he noted in a reference to the release of a list of Iranian citizens that are wanted by FBI for cyber attack against Washington.

The official said that the US measures are in line with the country's Iranophobia policy.

Translator: Hamdollah Emadi Heydari

9191**2050

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Parliament speaker: JCPOA ruined by US officials

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Orumiyeh, Sep 17, IRNA -- Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Ali Larijani said that the US officials have ruined the entirety of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Speaking to a group of provincial officials, Larijani said that the recent approval of the US congress is in violation of the JCPOA.

He said that the US officials, who claim Iran does not act according to the spirit of the JCPOA; they have ruined the entirety of the accord.

Larijani went on to say that violation of the JCPOA by the US is against interests of the country. 'If they try to ruin the JCPOA, Iran will speedily make recourse to nuclear conditions more powefully than the pre-JCPOA era.'

He referred to certain propaganda of westerners regarding what they call Iran's intention to form Shiite crescent and said Iran does not seek Imperialism through formation of the crescent and efforts to solve problems of Muslims in Myanmar and helping Hamas reject such a claim.

Well-calculated measure of the Islamic Iran is among its strong points and Iran has had wise conduct in connection with the regional and nuclear issues, concluded Larijani.

1420**2050

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Supreme Leader warns of any wrong move concerning JCPOA

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Sep 17, IRNA -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei on Sunday warned that any wrong doing concerning the nuclear deal will spark reaction of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

'Despite all mischievous measures and moves, taken over the past 38 years to make the country insecure, the armed organizations, including police, and the faithful youth bravely withstood and defended the country's security,' Supreme Leader said.

Ayatollah Khamenei said no organization and force is exposed to the public as police is and to this end, capability, power, timely action and bravery of the force is source of honor and prosperity of the system.

The Supreme Leader said police guarantees security of the public and prepares the ground for defending honor of the Islamic Republic establishment.

'At a time when polluted hands of enemies have scattered seeds of terrorists in the region, guaranteeing security of the country and police confrontation with the corrupt and mischiefs is of high significance and the role should scientifically, experimentally and skillfully be strengthened and followed seriously in such centers as police academy.'

Elsewhere in his remarks, Ayatollah Khamenei outlined root causes of insecurity in the region now and also referred to the US' and Zionists' mischievous and satanic intervention to infiltrate into the region and secure its illegitimate interests and undermine nations. 'One day, they create Daesh and when Daesh has its last breathes thanks to the resistance of the faithful youth, it seeks to find other hostile ways but thanks God and thanks to endeavors of Iranian youth and the resistant youth, the hegemonic system agents' are once again humiliated.'

'The only way to confront infiltration and greediness of the domineering powers, especially the US is the feeling of capability of nations and governments of the region and their application. If we fall short, the enemy will come forward,' Ayatollah Khamenei added.

The Supreme Leader referred to the US rudeness and impudence in connection with the JCPOA and said, 'In this connection, they show a mischief and satanic gesture each day, showing the right statement of the great Imam (Khomeini) that the US is a big Satan and actually the US is the most malicious Satan.

'Today, we see that despite all agreements and commitments and lengthy debates, the US approach to the talks and their outcome is fully tyrannical, authoritative and bullying,' Ayatollah Khamenei said.

'Officials should prove to the corrupt rulers of the US that they rely on their people and Iranian nation is a great nation and under blessing of Islam they will not succumb to pressure and will not bow to them. Americans should know that Iranian nation will stand on their honorable ad powerful stances and as far as key issues relating to national interests are concerned, withdrawal has no room in the lexicon of Islamic Republic and will go on. Enemy should know that if bullying proves effective in other parts of the world, it will not be so in the Islamic Republic and the system is authoritative and strong.'

The Supreme Leader said the reason for growing hostility towards the Iranian nation is its source of inspiration for other nations and the corrupt, liar and deceiving officials of the US impudently accuse Iranian nation and the Islamic Republic system of telling lies, while Iranian nation has been moving and acting honestly and will proceed the path to the end sincerely.

'You are the liar; the liars are those who do not consider any right for anyone to get prosperous and fortunate and consider securing their illegitimate interests permissible at any price.'

Iran and the Group 5+1 (the US, Russia, China, France and Britain plus Germany) reached the JCPOA on July 14, 2015 and began implementing it in January 2016.

Under the agreement, limits were put on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for, among other things, the removal of all nuclear-related bans against the Islamic Republic.

The UN Security Council later unanimously endorsed a resolution that effectively turned the JCPOA into international law.

Trump has been a virulent critic of the JCPOA signed under his predecessor Barack Obama, calling it 'the worst deal ever.'

However, the US Senate and Treasury Department have imposed new sanctions against Iran and several Iranian companies and individuals in recent months over its national missile program, which is not in breach of the JCPOA.

1420**2050

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran will respond to any 'wrong move' on JCPOA: Leader

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 10:36AM

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has warned that Iran will stand on its "honorable and dignified positions" regarding its nuclear accord with the P5+1 group of countries, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and respond to any "wrong" move.

"The Iranian nation has stood firmly and any wrong move by the hegemonic system on the JCPOA will draw a reaction from the Islamic Republic," the Leader said at a graduation ceremony of Iran's police cadets in Tehran on Sunday.

Referring to American officials' "brazen and shameless" measures with regard to the JCPOA, the Leader said, "They show one wickedness and one mischief with regard to this issue everyday, which proves that what our honorable Imam [Khomeini] said about America being the Great Satan is true and the regime of the United States of America is really the most evil of devils."

Ayatollah Khamenei stated that Iran started its nuclear program, because according to experts' estimates, the country needed to generate at least 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power, but the United States opposes Iran's nuclear program as it is basically opposed to scientific progress of the Iranian nation and other nations.

"The country's officials reached the conclusion that they should negotiate and ignore some of their rights, so that, sanctions [imposed on Iran on account of its nuclear program] would be removed. But today, we see that despite all agreements and promises and many discussions during [nuclear] negotiations, America treats these negotiations and their outcome in a totally oppressive and bullying manner," the Leader noted.

The Leader added that in the face of the United States' measures to scuttle the nuclear deal, Iranian "officials must prove to the corrupt leaders of the regime of the United States of America that they rely on their own people and the Iranian nation, which is a powerful nation thanks to Islam, will never submit and bow to them."

Ayatollah Khamenei then noted that the increasing hostility toward Iran was because the Iranian nation "is a source of inspiration for other nations," adding, "The corrupt, lying and dishonest officials of America brazenly accuse the Iranian nation and the Islamic Republic establishment of lying, while the Iranian nation moves honestly and will honestly continue on this path up to the end."

Explaining about the existing insecurity in the region, Ayatollah Khamenei mentioned "wicked and mischievous interventions" by the United States and the Zionist regime of Israel, which want to meet their own illegitimate interests and weaken the regional nations, as the main reason behind insecurity in the Middle East.

The Leader stated that if regional nations and governments wanted to block the infiltration of hegemonic powers like the United States into the region, they must really believe in their ability to do so, adding, "If we step back, the enemy will step forward."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran's Khamenei Warns Against 'Wrong Move' On Nuclear Deal

RFE/RL September 17, 2017

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that his country would react strongly to any "wrong move" by the United States on the 2015 nuclear deal.

"The Iranian nation is standing firm and any wrong move by the domineering regime regarding the [nuclear agreement] will face the reaction of the Islamic republic," state-controlled media quoted Khamenei as saying on September 17.

Washington last week extended some sanctions relief that was granted under the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers under which Iran has significantly limited its controversial nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

The State Department announced on September 14 that it will continue to waive sanctions on Iran as part of the nuclear agreement, but no decision had yet been made on whether to preserve the deal itself.

The U.S. administration has frequently charged that Tehran breaks the "spirit" of the deal by continuing to test-launch ballistic missiles and rockets capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

"Today, despite all the commitments and discussions in the negotiations, America's attitude toward these negotiations and their outcome is completely unjust and amounts to bullying," Khamenei said in a speech to Iranian military graduates.

"The Americans should know that the Iranian people will stand firm on their honorable positions and on important issues related to national interests, there will be no retreat by the Islamic republic," Khamenei added.

The head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, Ali Akbar Salehi, said earlier this month that his country wanted to adhere to the nuclear deal even if the United States withdrew.

"If the United States pulls out of the agreement, but the rest of the countries stay committed -- namely Britain, France, Germany, China, Russia -- then Iran would most probably stick with the commitments to the agreement without the U.S.," Salehi, who is also a vice president, told Spiegel Online on September 8.

President Hassan Rohani left on September 17 for the UN General Assembly in New York, where he is expected to hold talks on the nuclear deal.

With reporting by IRNA, Fars, and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran- supreme-leader-warns-us-wrong-move- nuclear-deal/28740477.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran only recognizes integrated, federal Iraq: Top official

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 01:12PM

A senior Iranian official warns that any "illegal" separatist move in Iraq would escalate insecurity in the country and across the region, saying that the Islamic Republic only recognizes an integrated and federal Iraqi government.

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Shamkhani made the remarks on Sunday while expressing the Islamic Republic's opposition to a planned referendum on the independence of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, saying the plan would fail to safeguard the region's interests.

He added that the referendum would lead to the emergence of new threats against the Kurdistan region and make the situation a lot more complicated.

At a time when Iraq is nearing the final phase of its fight to fully eliminate Takfiri terrorists thanks to the efforts and sacrifices of the country's people, including the Arabs, Kurds and Turkmen people, such illegal measures will undoubtedly have negative impacts on the security of the country, particularly the Kurdistan region, and the entire region, he pointed out.

Shamkhani said Iran's stance on the importance of maintaining Iraq's territorial integrity and unity was "unchangeable," adding, "Any damage to this strategic principle would lead to the revision of and serious alteration in the existing cooperation between Iran and Iraq's Kurdistan region."

He emphasized that the legitimacy of Iran's border crossings with the Iraqi Kurdistan region hinged upon the fact that the Kurdish areas were part of an undivided Iraq, adding that the Islamic Republic would shut all border crossings and terminate military and security agreements if the semi-autonomous region secedes from Iraq.

The plebiscite on the independence of Iraq's Kurdish region is scheduled to be held on September 25 to gauge support for the possible secession of Iraq's Kurdistan region.

The Iraqi parliament voted on September 12 to reject a Kurdish independence referendum, requiring Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and the central government in Baghdad to "take all steps to protect the unity of Iraq and open a serious dialogue" with Kurdish leaders.

On Friday, Iraqi Kurdish lawmakers approved holding of the secession vote in the face of fierce opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the United Nations and the US.

Regional powers like Iran and Turkey have repeatedly expressed concerns about the planned referendum by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), arguing that it could create further instability in the region.

The Iraqi prime minister said Kurdish authorities were "playing with fire" by planning to hold the independence referendum.

Abadi described the upcoming Kurdish independence vote as "unconstitutional" and "illegal," noting that Baghdad would resort to all legal processes it has at its disposal in response to the referendum.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iraq vice president: Baghdad won't tolerate creation of 'second Israel'

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 06:15PM

Iraqi Vice President Nouri al-Maliki has denounced a planned Kurdish independence referendum in northern Iraq, warning that Baghdad would not tolerate the establishment of "a second Israel," after the occupying regime became the only entity to support the so-called plebiscite.

Maliki, who was also Iraq's prime minister from 2006 to 2014, made the remarks in a meeting with US Ambassador to Iraq, Douglas Silliman, in the capital Baghdad on Sunday, adding that the leaders of the semi-autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan must "call off the referendum."

The so-called independence plebiscite "is contrary to the constitution and does not serve the general interests of the Iraqi people, not even the particular interests of the Kurds," Maliki said.

His comments came two days after lawmakers of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), in its capital Erbil, approved the September 25 referendum as opposition legislators boycotted the parliament's first session in two years.

Sixty-five out of the 68 Kurdish lawmakers present in the 111-seat regional parliament held the secession vote in the face of fierce opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the United Nations and the United States.

"We will not allow the creation of a second Israel in the north of Iraq," Maliki said at the meeting, according to a statement released by the vice president's office, warning that such a vote would have "dangerous consequences for the security, sovereignty and unity of Iraq." He also urged the Kurdish leaders to come to the negotiating table

Washington has already expressed its opposition to the referendum, arguing that it would weaken the Arab-Kurdish joint military operations that have managed to make Daesh Takfiri terrorist group retreat in both Iraq and neighboring Syria.

The White House has also warned that holding the vote in "disputed areas" would be "provocative and destabilizing," urging leaders of the Kurdistan region to call off the referendum and begin serious and sustained negotiations with Baghdad.

A close ally of the United States, the Israeli regime, however, has come out in apparent support of the controversial referendum. Earlier this week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Tel Aviv regime "supports the legitimate efforts of the Kurdish people to attain a state of its own."

On September 12, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi slammed the planned vote as "unconstitutional," calling on the Kurdish leadership to come to Baghdad and conclude a dialogue. The premier's remarks came after the Iraqi House of Representatives voted to reject the referendum.

The Iraqi parliamentarians urged the prime minister to take all necessary measures to maintain the unity of Iraq and start a serious dialogue with the Kurdistan region to resolve pending issues.

Turkey has already censured efforts to establish an independent Kurdistan as "a grave mistake." Ankara says the potential creation of an independent Kurdish state in its backyard would further embolden Turkey's homegrown Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militants toward an even stiffer confrontation with the government.

On Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in a televised interview that Ankara would hold a high-level security meeting on September 22 to decide on how to respond to such a plebiscite, saying the Kurdish leadership was suffering from "serious political ineptitude."

In June, Iran said it was opposed to the "unilateral" scheme for the independence of the Iraqi Kurdistan, underlining the importance of maintaining the integrity and stability of Iraq and insisting that the Kurdistan region was part of the majority Arab country.

The United Nations, for its part, has already called on Iraqi Kurdish leader, Massoud Barzani, to cancel plans for the controversial plebiscite and enter internationally-backed negotiations with Baghdad with the aim of reaching a deal within three years.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Turkey's Erdogan, Iraq's Abadi to discuss planned Kurdistan referendum

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 05:27PM

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that he will discuss with the Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi a controversial plan in the Arab country's autonomous Kurdistan region for holding a referendum of independence on September 25.

"We will have a meeting with Mr Abadi in the United States, and from what we can see our goal is the same. Our goal is not dividing Iraq," said Erdogan on Sunday before departing for New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly where he would meet the Iraqi leader.

Erdogan, who has on several occasions called on the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to postpone the referendum, said Ankara and Baghdad shared the same view regarding the vote.

He said Turkey would announce its official position on the referendum after September 22 when the Turkish government holds national security council and cabinet meetings before the usual schedule. That comes after Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Kurdistan's referendum of independence was now an issue of national security for Turkey and the country would take any necessary steps.

KRG leader Massoud Barzani has ignored increasing international calls for scrapping or delaying the vote and said on Friday that the referendum would go ahead as planned. Erdogan then criticized Barzani and said the decision to not postpone the vote was "very wrong."

Turkey is home to the largest population of Kurds, an estimated 20 million people, and authorities fear the formation of an independent Kurdistan in northern Iraq would provoke similar separatist sentiments along Turkey's southern border, where Kurds mostly live.

The KRG and Turkey have maintained warm relations over the past years and that has come against the backdrop of tensions between Ankara and Baghdad. The Iraqi government has on several occasions lambasted Turkey for allowing the KRG to sell its oil via the country to the world markets.

The regional and international powers have expressed concern that Kurdistan's planned referendum could distract an ongoing fight in Iraq and neighboring Syria, also home to a population of Kurds, against terrorism. Western powers, including the US, have called on the KRG to engage in dialogue with the central Iraqi government to settle old disputes.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iraqi Kurdish sessesion vote 'playing with fire': PM Abadi

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 04:48AM

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says Kurdish authorities are "playing with fire" by planning to hold a referendum on the independence of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.

"A sincere and brotherly call to the leaders in Kurdistan: the decision of referendum is a dangerous one. I consider it playing with fire. This decision poses the biggest danger to our citizens in Kurdistan," Abadi told The Associated Press in an interview on Saturday.

The plebiscite is scheduled for September 25 to gauge support for the possible secession of Iraq's Kurdistan region.

On Friday, Iraqi Kurdish lawmakers approved holding the secession vote in the face of fierce opposition from the central government in Baghdad, the United Nations and the US.

Regional powers like Iran and Turkey have also expressed concerns about the planned referendum by the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), arguing that it could create further instability in the region.

Abadi described the upcoming Kurdish vote as "unconstitutional" and "illegal," noting that Baghdad was resorting to all legal processes it has at its disposal in response to the referendum.

"If you challenge the constitution and if you challenge the borders of Iraq and the borders of the region, then ... this is a public invitation to the countries in the region to violate Iraqi borders as well [which] would be a very dangerous escalation," he warned.

Asked whether the use of force was on the table, the Iraqi premier stressed that if the Iraqi population is "threatened by the use of force outside the law, then we will intervene militarily."

The Kurdish vote, he said, jeopardizes gains achieved by the Iraqi Kurds under a self-rule government and opens "the gate for regional intervention in the KRG. Not in the rest of Iraq, but in the KRG."

Asked whether he would ever accept an independent Kurdistan, Abadi said it was a "constitutional matter."

"It's not up to me, there is a constitution.  I don't have legal authority to accept this referendum.  If they (the Kurds) want to go down that road, they should work toward amending the constitution," he pointed out.

Earlier this week, the Iraqi parliament voted to reject the Kurdish plebiscite, requiring Baghdad to "take all steps to protect the unity of Iraq and open a serious dialog" with Kurdish leaders.

Additionally, the White House called for the Iraqi Kurdish region to abandon the referendum "and enter into serious and sustained dialog with Baghdad."

The UN also urged KRG head Masoud Barzani to drop plans for the secession vote and enter talks with Baghdad aimed at reaching a deal within three years.

The KRG has long been embroiled in disputes with the Iraqi federal government over budget payments, oil exports and control of ethnically-divided areas.

Barzani told a rally for secession in the city of Dohuk on Friday that the Iraqi Kurdistan did "not take legitimacy from anyone."

The contentious vote comes at a time when Iraq is still grappling with the insecurity caused by the Daesh terrorist group.

A car bomb explosion hit Iraq's northern city of Kirkuk on Saturday, killing three civilians and wounding nine others.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






What's Controversial About a Kurdistan Referendum?

By Heather Murdock September 17, 2017

In the capital of Iraq's Kurdistan region, traffic cameras nail speeders, and trash thrown on the street is whisked away by morning. High-level officials from all over the country dine in five-star hotels, and parks, malls and cafes are packed on nights and weekends.

People speak Kurdish, listen to Kurdish music, marry Kurdish spouses and eat Kurdish food. There are plenty of Arab residents and visitors, but they come with permission from Kurdish authorities, and after passing through Kurdish military checkpoints.

For many people here, the upcoming referendum on Kurdish independence from Iraq is obvious.

"Any region that has its own culture and language has the right to be independent," says Saman Sadq, the owner of a nuts and sweets shop. "Forget politics. We need to think of our future as Kurdish people."

Opponents of the referendum are many and varied. The Iraqi parliament, opposition parties within the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, Western leaders, and Iraq's neighboring countries have come out against the vote. Some want the referendum canceled; others want it postponed.

Karzan Gardi, who heads the Irbil election office for Gorran, one of Kurdistan's main opposition parties, says, "There are many signs there will be a backlash."

To vote or not to vote?

The Gorran party, like many Western countries, wants to postpone the ballot. The Kurdish opposition sees the referendum as ill-timed and potentially a catalyst for conflict.

Many Western countries are also lobbying for postponement. They see the referendum as potentially damaging to the fight with Islamic State militants, who still hold portions of Iraq.

Kurdish and Iraqi forces have been allies against IS, but a vote for independence would skyrocket tensions, and possibly incite violence within Iraq. Both the Kurdish government and Baghdad claim parts of Iraq, including Kirkuk, one of the country's biggest oil cities. Additionally, the vote would certainly anger Iraq's neighbors, also allied against IS.

The Iraqi parliament in Baghdad voted this week to reject the vote, promising to use "any means necessary" to prevent the referendum.

On Thursday, representatives from the United Nations, the United States and Britain met with Kurdish President Masoud Barzani, asking him to postpone the referendum. In the past, Barzani has been defiant against calls for postponement.

Barzani, however, has also noted the international community may be able to persuade his government to postpone the ballot, if it offers an alternate plan, and some kind of guarantee to help Kurdistan transition into independence safely.

After the meeting, a Kurdistan president's office statement said the international delegation had proposed an alternative to a September 25 vote that Kurdish leaders will discuss and will announce a "stance in the near future."

The staunchest opponents

Western officials fear the referendum will destabilize the region, as Iraq's neighbors Turkey, Iran and Syria oppose the ballot, apparently worried a "yes" vote will fuel established Kurdish independence movements at home.

Among these movements are militant groups like the PKK, recognized internationally as a terrorist organization and the Turkish government's enemy No. 1. Other Kurdish groups, like the YPG in Syria, are viewed as terrorists by Turkey and are armed and trained against IS by the United States.

Turkey's Foreign Ministry called the referendum a "historic mistake" on Thursday, warning Kurdish Iraq will "pay a price" if it goes through with the vote.

The only country in the region that supports the referendum outright is Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying Thursday that Israel "supports the legitimate efforts of the Kurdish people to achieve their own state." Israel has no official diplomatic ties to Baghdad.

According to Barzani, foreign opposition and threats are not factors in the decision on whether to hold the referendum.

"If someone wants to try to break the will of the people of Kurdistan by force," he said Thursday, according to local news, "the field is open for them to come and give it a try."

Independence dream

Kurdistan is a historical and cultural region overlapping the borders of Syria, Turkey, Iraq and Iran.

Divided by an early 20th century European deal to divvy up "spheres of influence" in the Middle East, Kurdish people are known for harboring a near-universal dream of an independent state.

"The Kurdish people have suffered so much destruction," explains Ari Nanakali, a senior member of the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party in his office in Irbil. "I expect all Kurdish people here will vote, and 75 percent will vote 'yes.'"

Under President Saddam Hussein in the late 1980s, Kurdish people in Iraq suffered genocide, chemical attacks, mass displacements and forced disappearances. As many as 182,000 Kurdish people were murdered during the campaign.

Kurdistan in Iraq is one of the most secure places in the region, with an economy that was expanding rapidly until recent years. Kurds believe it can start growing again.

"When we are a country, we will make international trade agreements," adds Nanakali. "It will make us stronger."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iraqi Vice President Says Iraq Will Not Accept 'Another Israel'

Sputnik News

01:34 18.09.2017(updated 04:21 18.09.2017)

In July Iraqi Vice President Nouri Maliki told Sputnik that Kurdistan would be unable to secede because it would be against the constitution of Iraq. In response to Barzani's announcement to hold an independence referendum no matter what, Maliki has warned that the Iraqi government will not tolerate the establishment of "another Israel."

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Iraqi Vice President Nouri Maliki, an opponent of Kurdistan independence, said Sunday that Baghdad will not put up with the emergence of "another Israel" in Iraq's north, referring to the upcoming independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan.

"We will not allow the establishment of another Israel in northern Iraq," Maliki said, following a meeting with the US ambassador in Iraq, as quoted by the Iraqi News outlet.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Tel Aviv was supportive of Kurdish efforts to create their own state. He expressed a "positive attitude" toward a Kurdish state in the Kurdish areas of Iraq, calling the Kurds "brave, pro-Western people who share our [Israeli] values." Iraqi Vice President Maliki, on the contrary, stressed that the independence bid was unconstitutional, and urged the cancellation of the referendum.

On June 7, President of Iraqi Kurdistan Masoud Barzani announced his intention to hold a referendum on the independence of the autonomous region from Iraq on September 25, a decision which created an uproar in Baghdad and several other countries, including Turkey and Iran.

Several Western countries proposed a postponement of the planned independence referendum if a suitable alternative could be found. Barzani, however, ruled out any alternative to the independence plebiscite and called on the Kurdish people to cast their votes on September 25. He explained that these offers do not contain the guarantees that would be suitable for the residents of the region and thus the referendum will take place as scheduled.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed that the referendum on Iraqi Kurdistan independence was bad timing, as a unilateral decision to hold it now would detract from the need to fight Daesh while delaying the much-needed reconstruction of the regained territories. Observing the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of Iraq, Guterres urged both sides to hold constructive dialogue.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Bahrain's king denounces boycott of Israel, says citizens free to visit Israel

Iran Press TV

Mon Sep 18, 2017 02:08AM

Bahrain's king Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah has called for an end to the Arab boycott of Israel, days after the Israeli premier said relations with the Arab world were better than any other time.

According to Israeli media, King Hamad's made the remarks at an event hosted by pro-Israeli group Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, calling for diplomatic ties to be established with the Israeli regime.

King Hamad also told Simon Wiesenthal Center director Rabbi Abraham Cooper that Bahraini citizens are free to visit Israel as they please. His stance on Israel was welcomed by the Israeli center's director who hailed the monarch as "ahead of the pack and smart."

"If I had to predict, I would tell you that the Arab world's relationship with the state of Israel is going to dramatically change... This is a dinner tonight that's hosted by a Jewish organization that no one will say is not so pro-Israel," Cooper added.

Cooper and his partner Marvin Hier met with King Hamed at the center and discussed the opening of a museum for religious tolerance in Bahrain's capital Manama towards the end of the year.

The change of stance comes weeks after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described relations with the Arab world better than any other time.

"What's happening now with the Arab bloc states has never before happened in our history  even when we signed agreements," said Netanyahu. "What we have now is greater than anything else during any other period in Israel's history."

Last week, reports emerged that a secret meeting was held between a leading Saudi royal and senior Israeli officials in Tel Aviv, and in June, leaked emails of the UAE's ambassador to the US Yousef al-Otaiba's suggested that Abu Dhabi had established secret links with pro-Israel think-tank Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD).

Last year, a video of a ceremony to mark the Jewish Hanukkah holiday hosted by Bahrain circulated on social media, showing Bahraini men in local kaffiyeh attire attending the party and dancing with Orthodox Jews. The video prompted condemnation from the Palestinian movement Hamas that urged Bahrain to end the move towards normalizing ties with Israel.

About 600,000 Israelis live in over 230 illegal settlements built since the 1967 occupation of the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and East Jerusalem al-Quds. Tel Aviv has defied international calls to stop its construction activities on the occupied Palestinian territories.

The regime has accused rights groups of contributing to the worldwide anti-Israeli Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The BDS was initiated in 2005 by over 170 Palestinian organizations that were pushing for "various forms of boycott against Israel until it meets its obligations under international law."

The boycott of Israel was adopted by the Arab League and its member states and bars all relations between Arab nations and Israel.

Thousands of volunteers worldwide have joined the BDS to help promote the Palestinian cause of ending Israeli occupation and oppression. Those include international trade unions, NGOs, initiatives, academic and business societies, trade unions, and cultural figures.

Last year, the regime allocated $32 million to fighting the high-profile movement. It has also banned anyone found to support the BDS from entering the Israeli-occupied territories.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Buddhists to Rohingya: Leave, or we will kill you all

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 06:27PM

Thousands of Rohingya Muslims in northwestern Myanmar are pleading for safe passage from two remote villages besieged by Buddhist extremists.

Media reports said the situation was particularly dire in the village of Ah Nauk Pyin and the nearby Naung Pin Gyi, where any escape route to neighboring Bangladesh is long and arduous.

Maung Maung, a Rohingya official in Ah Nauk Pyin, said the villagers were resigned to leaving, but authorities had not responded to their requests for security. "We'll starve soon and they're threatening to burn down our houses," he told Reuters by telephone. "We're terrified."

Another Rohingya, who asked not to be named, said extremist Buddhists came to the same village and chanted, "Leave, or we will kill you all."

Elsewhere in his remarks, Maung Maung, said he had called Myanmar's police at least 30 times to report threats against his village.

On September 13, the Rohingya official said he had received a call from a Rakhine villager he knew. "Leave tomorrow or we'll come and burn down all your houses," the man on the phone had said. When the Rohingya official protested that they had no means to escape, the man replied, "That's not our problem."

Maung Maung also said the village elders had sent a letter to Rathedaung authorities on September 7, asking to be moved to "another place". They had yet to receive a response, he said.

On August 31, Myanmar's police convened a roadside meeting between the two villages. Rohingya residents who attended the meeting said that instead of addressing the Rohingya complaints, the Rakhine officials delivered an ultimatum.

"They said they didn't want any Muslims in the region and we should leave immediately," said the Rohingya resident of Ah Nauk Pyin who requested anonymity.

Ah Nauk Pyin sits on a mangrove-fringed peninsula in Rathedaung, one of three townships in Rakhine state. The villagers say they have no boats to leave the volatile region.

Until three weeks ago, there were 21 Rohingya Muslim villages in Rathedaung, along with three camps for Muslims displaced by the previous wave of violence.

Sixteen of those villages and all three camps have since been emptied and in many cases burnt.

Human rights monitors say Rathedaung's five surviving Rohingya villages and their thousands of inhabitants are encircled by Rakhine Buddhists.

Since 2012, the Rohingya have been too scared to leave the village or till their land, surviving mainly on monthly deliveries from the World Food Program (WFP).

The recent violence halted those deliveries after the WFP pulled out most of its staff and suspended operations in the region after August 25.

Residents in the two Rohingya villages said they could no longer venture out to fish or buy food from Buddhist traders, and were running low on food and medicines.

Since October 2016, Myanmar's government has laid a siege to the western state of Rakhine, where the Rohingya Muslims are concentrated. There, horrific violence, including killing, rape and torching property, has been taking place against the minority Muslims, according to reports and eyewitnesses.

The attacks have seen a sharp rise since August 25 after dozens of police and border outposts in Rakhine came under attack purportedly by a group claiming to be the defenders of the Rohingya. The alleged assaults were launched in response to a government clampdown in the area, where over a million Rohingya are based.

Rohingya Muslims fleeing violence and persecution in their home country of Myanmar continue to arrive in Bangladesh. Refugees are waiting for handout from aid agencies since they lack food, clean water and shelter. Locals say many of the Rohingya refugees are also sick and wounded. Thousands of the displaced people have been stranded or left without enough food for weeks.

The United Nations says so far more than 400,000 desperate Rohingya Muslims have fled the violence in Myanmar and crossed into neighboring Bangladesh.

Myanmar's government denies full citizenship to the Rohingya, branding them illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Dhaka, in turn, regards the desperate refugees as Myanmarese and harshly pushes them back. The Rohingya, however, track their ancestors many generations back in Myanmar.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Fleeing violence at home, Rohingya Muslims face difficulties in India, Nepal, Bangladesh

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 06:19AM

There seems to be no end in sight to the plight of Rohingya Muslims as those members of the community who have fled persecution in Myanmar are now facing difficulties in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

The Indian government announced on Saturday that it would make a case to the country's Supreme Court for the expulsion of up to 40,000 Rohingya Muslims who have arrived over the past 10 years, claiming that they are a security threat.

The move has faced strong opposition from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein and civil rights campaigners.

According to the UN, there are 16,000 Rohingya Muslims registered in India and many more are still undocumented. Officials say nearly 7,000 of the Muslims live in shanties in Jammu in the Indian Himalayas.

Reports say 47 families live in dilapidated structures at the Kanchan Kunj camp in New Delhi.

"I would rather have the [Indian] government kill us or put us in jail than have us deported back there (Myanmar)," a Rohingya residing in India said. "If we go back there, they will cut us into pieces and stack us 10-15 people together and set us on fire."

In Myanmar, the Rohingya Muslims face death, torture, and rape by military forces and gangs of Buddhist extremists in the western state of Rakhine, according to reports and eyewitnesses. They have been fleeing bouts of violence in recent months.

Nepal

The government in neighboring Nepal, meanwhile, is also attempting to prevent the entry of more members of the Muslim minority to the country. Those who have arrived live in slums in northern Kathmandu.

"Nepal has increased surveillance at its border to stop more Rohingya from entering the country after the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar because we cannot bear any more crises," Nepal's Home Ministry spokesman Ram Krishna said.

The UN says more than 400,000 desperate Rohingya Muslims have so far fled the violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state and crossed into neighboring Bangladesh.

Bangladesh restricts movement of Rohingya

Meanwhile, Bangladeshi police said on Saturday that they had issued an order banning the Rohingya from leaving the areas and camps the government has designated for them in the southeastern border district of Cox's Bazar, where the majority of refugees are living in squalid conditions.

"They should stay in the designated camps until they return to their country," Sahely Ferdous, a police spokeswoman, said in a statement. "They cannot travel from one place to another by roads, railways, or waterways."

Rohingya are asked not to take shelter in the homes of their friends or acquaintances, while locals have been asked not to rent houses to the refugees, and bus and truck drivers requested not to transport the Rohingya, according to the spokeswoman.

Bangladeshi prime minister to urge probe in Myanmar

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday summoned the Myanmarese envoy for the third time to protest its neighbor's actions.

Hasina then headed for the UN General Assembly in New York to plead for international assistance in a bid to cope with the mounting crisis.

"She will seek immediate cessation of violence in Rakhine state in Myanmar and ask the UN secretary general to send a fact-finding mission to Rakhine," said Nazrul Islam, a spokesman for the premier.

"She will also call the international community and the UN to put pressure on Myanmar for the repatriation of all the Rohingya refugees to their homeland in Myanmar," he said.

Myanmar's government brands the Rohingya Muslims in the country as "illegal immigrants" from Bangladesh, launching a deadly and brutal crackdown on them. Rohingya Muslims, however, have had roots in Myanmar that go back centuries.

They are considered by the UN the "most persecuted minority group in the world."

The Myanmarese military has been attacking Rohingya Muslims and torching their villages in Rakhine since October 2016. The attacks have seen a sharp rise since August 25, following a number of alleged armed attacks on police and military posts in the troubled western state.

There have been reports of massacres and ethnic cleansing by Myanmarese army and Buddhist mobs against the Muslim population in Rakhine.

Canada 'to raise issue of Rohingya at UN'

Separately on Saturday, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland expressed concern over the plight of the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, saying that she will raise the issue and speak up on their behalf at the UN General Assembly next week.

"Based on the reports, this looks a lot like ethnic cleansing and that is not acceptable," Freeland said at a rally staged in support of the Rohingya by several Canadian Muslim organizations in Toronto.

She added that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had expressed his "very strong condemnation" of the treatment of the Rohingya directly to Myanmar's de facto ruler Aung San Suu Kyi earlier this week.

Freeland declined to provide details on what she or Trudeau have planned to do at the UN but said the issue was one that both would be "focusing on."

Another rally in support of the Rohingya is to take place in Ottawa on Sunday afternoon.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Roadside bomb explosion kills official, 5 police in northwestern Pakistan

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 01:47PM

A local government official and five police personnel have been killed in a roadside bomb attack in Pakistan's volatile northwestern tribal area bordering Afghanistan.

The deadly explosion occurred in the town of Mamond, some 25 kilometers from Khar, the major town of Bajaur, one of the seven tribal areas in Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), on Sunday. The bombing took place as an official from the civilian administration was traveling with the police to attend a meeting in the Taliban-infested region.

The explosive device, which was detonated by a remote control, hit the vehicle transporting the victims and wounded another official.

A few hours after the blast, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group, also known as Pakistani Taliban, released a statement, claiming responsibility for the attack. It said it had planted the bomb "to target security personnel."

The TTP, mainly active in FATA, is regarded as Pakistan's biggest security threat. Pakistani troops have for over a decade been battling militants in the region to curb insurgencies by the Takfiri terrorist groups of Taliban and al-Qaeda.

The army has managed to reduce violence across the Asian country in recent years, following a series of counterterrorism operations conducted against militants, but every so often remnants of the terror groups carry out periodic bloody attacks, both against people and the armed forces, particularly in the northwest.

Back in June 2014, the army launched a full-scale offensive in mountainous North Waziristan, part of which constitutes FATA, aimed at wiping out militant bases in the highly volatile tribal region.

Since 2001, thousands of Pakistanis have lost their lives in bombings and other militant attacks, and many more have been displaced. The year was when Pakistan entered an alliance with the United States in Washington's so-called war on terror.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Pakistan: Ex-PM Sharif's Wife Wins Parliamentary Seat

By Ayaz Gul September 17, 2017

Kulsoom Nawaz, wife of Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, easily won election Sunday to fill the seat he formerly held.

The victory by Kulsoom Nawaz was expected, since the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party is dominant in the central Lahore constituency. The former prime minister had held the seat since the mid-1980s, when he first entered national politics.

Official media reported the winning candidate had 61,254 votes, to just over 47,000 for her main rival, Yasmin Rahid of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. But above and beyond Sunday's by-election, the result was seen as a critical test for the Sharif dynasty ahead of Pakistan's national elections next year.

The country's Supreme Court, which has been hearing a high-profile corruption case against Nawaz Sharif and his children, ruled in July that Sharif had concealed overseas assets, and ordered his removal from office for "dishonesty."

Kulsoom Nawaz is currently in London undergoing cancer treatment, with her husband at her side. Their daughter, Maryam Nawaz, ran the election campaign in her mother's absence.

The younger woman, who has been described as a future leader by political insiders in Pakistan, addressed jubilant workers from the PML-N party late Sunday evening.

In her speech, televised live from the family residence in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz said outcome of the election demonstrated the "public's love for Sharif," and rejected his disqualification for office.

Pakistan's High Court said it dismissed Sharif because he had not reported monthly earnings he received from an overseas company owned by his son. The former prime minister denied that he had received any salary, or knew anything about the payments, which first were discovered after he was elected prime minister for a third time in 2013.

Sharif's first term as Pakistan's prime minister, in the early 1990s, also ended abruptly when he was dismissed by presidential decree after being accused of corruption. Back in office a few years later, he was overthrown by a military coup in 1999 and exiled to Saudi Arabia along with other family members.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Senior NATO General Expresses Concerns Over Moscow's Zapad Maneuvers 'Transparency'

RFE/RL September 17, 2017

A senior NATO general says the military alliance is concerned about the large-scale Zapad (West) 2017 military drills being conducted by Russia and Belarus because of Moscow's lack of transparency.

General Petr Pavel, who is chief of NATO's Military Committee, said in an interview with the Associated Press published on September 16 that the maneuvers could lead "to unintended consequences of potential incidents during the exercise."

Pavel is among several Western military and political leaders who have expressed concerns about the massive military maneuvers, which run through September 20 on NATO's eastern flank in Belarus and parts of western Russia.

Moscow and Minsk say the Zapad maneuvers involve 12,700 troops, but Pavel told AP the actual number could be up to 100,000 in what Western officials call a Russian show of power amid the ongoing standoff over Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

Moscow has denied the drills are an aggressive action and said that "NATO is not considered an enemy" and "the exercise is not aimed at NATO."

NATO said it would send three observers to Belarus and Russia to monitor Zapad, but it has repeatedly called on the two countries to allow broader monitoring of the drills.

Russian state-run TASS news agency reported on September 16 that observers from seven countries had arrived in Belarus to monitor the exercise.

"In the spirit of openness and transparency and on a voluntary basis, Belarus has invited representatives from Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Ukraine, Sweden, and Estonia to monitor the joint strategic exercise," Belarusian Defense Ministry spokesman Uladzimer Makarau was quoted as saying.

Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite was among those who voiced alarm about the exercises, labeling them a sign that Russia is preparing for a serious conflict with NATO.

Belarus borders Ukraine as well as NATO members Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. The drills are also being staged in Russia's western exclave of Kaliningrad, which lies between Poland and Lithuania on the Baltic Sea.

"All together, what we see is a serious preparation for big war," Pavel told AP. "When we only look at the exercise that is presented by Russia there should be no worry. But when we look it in the big picture, we have to be worried, because Russia was not transparent."

"We have high concentration of troops in the Baltics. We have a high concentration of troops in the Black Sea and potential for an incident may be quite high because of a human mistake, because of a technology failure," said Pavel said. "We have to be sure that such an unintended incident will not escalate into conflict."

With reporting by AP, TASS, and RFE/RL's Belarus Service

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/nato-general-russia-belarus -zapad-ukraine/28739923.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Syria Army, allies cut Daesh's main supply line in Dayr al-Zawr

Iran Press TV

Sun Sep 17, 2017 10:00AM

The Syrian Army and its allies have cut Daesh's main supply line in the northeastern city of Dayr al-Zawr.

The victory came after the combined forces pushed the Takfiri terror group out of the al-Jafra district on the western bank of the Euphrates River in the city, Syrian military sources said.

The London-based so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the conquest, and said the forces had also retaken control of a number of villages near the city's air base overnight.

A Syrian source said Daesh terrorists could now only escape across the river.

"They have no outlet except crossing the Euphrates towards the eastern bank and fleeing towards the desert, or (the towns of) al-Bukamal and al-Mayadin," the source said.

The terror outfit started its campaign of bloodshed and destruction against the Arab country in 2014, taking over vast swathes of territory. It, however, was forced out of much of its turf a year later against Army advances, which have been backed by Russian aerial support, Lebanese Shia fighters, and Iranian military advisory assistance.

Earlier this month, the Syria Army and its allies broke a nearly three-year-old Daesh siege on government-held parts of the provincial capital.

As the combined forces began building on their gains, the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed group of mostly Kurdish militants, said it was also launching an attack on the province from Euphrates' eastern side.

A commander with the SDF, Ahmed Abu Khawla, said on Friday that the group would not "allow" the Syrian forces to get to the eastern bank of the river.

Russia, however, said Syrian government forces had crossed the Euphrates in their push to liberate the province from Daesh, ignoring a warning by the ragtag group.

Daesh is currently reported to be in control of just a third of the province, the liberation of which would also put a stop to the movement of its terrorists across the common border with Iraq.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia Rejects Allegation It Bombed U.S.-Backed Militia In Syria

RFE/RL September 17, 2017

Russia has dismissed allegations that its military struck U.S.-backed forces in war-torn Syria, injuring several allied fighters.

Defense Ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov said on September 17 that Russian strikes only hit targets in areas under the control of the extremist group Islamic State (IS).

Konashenkov that the Russian military informed the United States well in advance of its operational plans.

"To avoid unnecessary escalation, the commanders of Russian forces in Syria used an existing communications channel to inform our American partners in good time about the borders of our military operation in Deir al-Zor," he said.

The comments come after the U.S.-led coalition battling IS militants in Syria said the Russian military on September 16 struck forces of a U.S.-backed Kurdish-Arab militia in Syria.

"Russian munitions impacted a location known to the Russians to contain Syrian Democratic Forces and coalition advisors," a statement said. "Several SDF fighters were wounded and received medical care as a result of the strike."

It added that coalition advisers who were present "were not wounded as a result of the Russian strike."

Earlier, the SDF accused Russian jets of bombing its forces in Deir al-Zor Province, injuring six of its fighters in the last major IS stronghold in Syria.

The United States and Russia back separate military offensives in the Syrian war, both of which are advancing against IS forces in the east of the country near Iraq.

Russia and Iran back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the country's six-year-old war, while the United States and Turkey support various rebel groups opposed to the Damascus government.

IS fighters, who captured large swathes of Syrian territory in 2014, are opposed by all sides and are being driven from most of their strongholds by the separate government and rebel campaigns.

Washington and Moscow have largely stayed out of each other's way in their fight against IS in Syria, with the Euphrates River frequently serving as a dividing line.

The commander of the U.S.-led coalition, Lieutenant General Paul Funk, said in the September 16 statement that coalition officials "are available and the de-conflictation line with Russia is open 24 hours a day."

"We put our full efforts into preventing unnecessary escalation among forces that share ISIS as our common enemy," Funk said, using an alternate acronym for the extremist group.

The statement added, "Coalition forces and partners always retain the right of self-defense."

With reporting by Reuters, TASS, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/syria-russia-denies-bombing -us-backed-militia/28740341.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian MoD Denies Pentagon Allegations It Hit US-Backed Rebels in Syria

Sputnik News

13:23 17.09.2017(updated 06:02 18.09.2017)

The Russian Defense Ministry denied on Sunday the Pentagon's allegations that Russian jets had attacked the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor.

Russian aircraft in Syria target only the positions of the terrorist group Daesh, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said, commenting on the claims that Russia bombed a target near Deir ez-Zor knowing that the SDF units and US-coalition advisers were there.

Konashenkov noted that Russia has been conducting the operation along with Syrian forces in the Deir ez-Zor area for a week, adding that the US was notified of it in advance.

"To avoid unnecessary escalation, the command of the Russian forces in Syria gave the US partners an advance notice, through an existing communications channel, on the [territorial] borders within which the military operation in Deir Ez-Zor would be conducted," Konashenkov said.

The spokesman reiterated that Russia carries out its operations based on reconnaissance information that is usually verified through several channels.

"The priority targets for destruction are the terrorists' firing positions from which they are leading large-scale attacks on the Syrian forces," the spokesman said.

Konashenkov pointed out that the Russian intelligence services had discovered no clashes between Daesh fighters and any armed representatives of "third parties" on the eastern bank of the Euphrates in the last few days. He added that "only representatives of the international coalition themselves" could say how opposition members or coalition allies could make their way into the midst of Daesh troops without any fighting.

The Syrian army supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces last week lifted the blockade around Deir ez-Zor that had been maintained by Daesh for several years. Fighting continues in the east and southeast of the city.

Moscow has repeatedly claimed that decisions about the airstrikes in Syria are made only after thorough verification of the intelligence data. Since the start of the Russian aerial campaign, the West has been accusing Moscow of targeting so-called moderate opposition factions in Syria and civilians. Russia and Syria have continuously refuted these allegations.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Syrian Forces Cut Main Daesh Supply Route Into Deir ez-Zor

Sputnik News

11:11 17.09.2017(updated 14:42 17.09.2017)

According to a Syrian army operations staffer, government forces have cut off the main supply route to the Daesh-held areas of Deir ez-Zor in the east of the country.

DEIR EZ-ZOR (Sputnik)  Syrian government forces have cut off the main supply route to areas of Deir ez-Zor in the east of the country held by Daesh (ISIS) terrorists by securing control over a strategic town close to the formerly besieged city, an army operations staff source told Sputnik on Sunday.

Syrian forces have been on the offensive in the area around the city over recent days in the wake of the successful operation to break through Daesh forces encircling Deir ez-Zor. Most militants have been pushed back several miles east, and across the Euphrates.

"The army and its allies have pushed Daesh terrorists out of the Jafra area, thus cutting the main supply route to Daesh-held areas of Deir ez-Zor," the source said.

Daesh militants then started fleeing for Mayadin and further toward the northern outskirts of Deir ez-Zor, according to the source.

Last week, Syrian government troops supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces lifted the blockade around Deir ez-Zor that had been maintained by Daesh for several years. Fighting continues in the east and southeast of the city.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Syrian Army Defeats Daesh in Southeast Deir Ez-Zor Districts, Reaches Euphrates

Sputnik News

07:33 17.09.2017(updated 15:17 17.09.2017)

Syrian government forces continue to press forward with Russian air cover in the offensive against Daesh jihadists: two districts in the southeast of Deir ez-Zor have been liberated from terrorists.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The Syrian government troops and their allies liberated two southeastern districts of the city of Deir ez-Zor from Daesh terror group and reached the Euphrates river, a source in the operation headquarters told Sputnik on Sunday.

"The army reached the Euphrates, having liberated [two] districts On the east side, the militants were forced to retreat from the airbase at a distance of more than five kilometers [over three miles]," the source said.

According to the source, the terrorists retreated to the city of Al Mayadin while some of them crossed the Euphrates and sheltered in the northern part of Deir ez-Zor.

Although last week the three-year Daesh siege of the city of Deir ez-Zor was broken the fighting to fully liberate the area is still underway.

The successful Deir ez-Zor operation was the biggest breakthrough against Daesh since the terrorist group first launched an offensive in the province. The terrorists had been blockading Deir ez-Zor since 2014, with food and other supplies only being airlifted into the city. The group also took control over a large swath of the province of Deir ez-Zor and cut off roads to government-held districts.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Turkey Dispatches 80 Military Vehicles to Border With Syria

Sputnik News

21:04 17.09.2017(updated 22:53 17.09.2017)

The Turkish army has moved 80 military vehicles, including tanks, to the border with Syria, local media reported Sunday citing a military source.

ANKARA (Sputnik)  The vehicles were moved to the borderline near Turkish district of Iskenderun in the southern province of Hatay, the Anadolu news agency reported.

Turkish army also reportedly deployed on Saturday heavy equipment, medical trucks, and other military vehicles in the area.

This is not the first time Turkey is sending military vehicles to the Syrian border.

Ankara has also sent ten trucks loaded with armored vehicles and artillery to reinforce its military presence in the country's province of Kilis, located in the immediate vicinity of the Turkey-Syria border.

Turkey has been boosting its military presence in the border area amid its struggle with Kurdish forces, including the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

Ankara considers YPG to be affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a designated terrorist group in Turkey, the United States and the European Union. YPG controls Syria's northern region of Afrin, which borders Kilis.

In July, Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik announced that Turkey might launch a military operation in Syria's north-western district of Afrin, which is currently under control of Kurdish-led armed groups that in the opinion of Ankara are linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) banned in Turkey.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






U.S. Ukraine Envoy Welcomes Russia Proposal For Peacekeepers, But Sees 'Obstacles'

RFE/RL September 17, 2017

The U.S. special envoy for efforts to end the conflict in eastern Ukraine has called a Russian proposal to send United Nations peacekeepers to the region a "step forward" but warns there are still many "obstacles" to the plan suggested by Moscow.

The envoy, Kurt Volker, on September 16 said, "It's very interesting that Russia proposed a UN protection mission.... This is a step forward in a way bringing it up for discussion and bringing it to the [UN] Security Council."

"There's more on the table now that we can work with," he said on the sidelines of the annual Yalta European Strategy conference in Kyiv.

But he added that the mandate of any UN force must not "deepen the division" of the country.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said that the purpose of a proposed UN-mandated peacekeeping mission in war-torn eastern Ukrainian must be to foster peace, not to cement what he called "Russia's occupation" of a chunk of his country.

Poroshenko said the mission should patrol the whole conflict zone including the border between Russia and the separatist-held parts of Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk regions, which Kyiv says is used to ship weapons and military personnel in from Russia.

Russia initially indicated that under its plan, the peacekeepers would operate only along the front line separating Ukrainian government forces and Russia-backed separatists. Russia also said the plan should be subject to approval by the separatists.

But Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 11 signaled his willingness to look into the idea of deploying the peacekeepers not only along the conflict line but also in other areas where monitors from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) work.

Some 600 observers from the OSCE are in eastern Ukraine, but their presence has failed to halt the fighting.

Volker reiterated that the UN force's mandate should not be limited to protecting the OSCE observers along the conflict demarcation line between zones controlled by Kyiv and those held by the pro-Russia separatists.

The current proposal, he said, "would only protect monitors, not people. It would not give access to control the Russia-Ukraine border. There's a lot of obstacles, a lot of problems with the way it was proposed."

Volker said the force should control the Ukrainian side of the border with Russia, enabling it to help prevent any movement of heavy weapons from Russia to the separatists.

Despite overwhelming evidence, Moscow denies that it has played a role in the fighting in eastern Ukraine.

The comments came after Volker early on September 16 wrote on Twitter that "The conflict in eastern Ukraine is not an indigenous uprising; it's an externally driven conflict & Russia is responsible."

Russia's state-run TASS news agency quoted Volker on September 16 as saying he might meet with Vladislav Surkov, Putin's point man for the conflict in eastern Ukraine, next month.

No date was set, although TASS quoted a U.S. official as saying the meeting would likely occur in October.

The conflict has killed more than 10,000 civilians and combatants in eastern Ukraine since it erupted in April 2014, after Russia seized control of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and fomented separatism in some eastern parts of the country.

The United States and European Union have slapped sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, TASS, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/volker-ukraine-russia-peacekeepers- united-nations-donetsk-luhansk/28739922.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Marriott International, Inc. today announced the anticipated opening of the dual-branded hotel development in downtown Denver, bringing two lauded European-inspired brands to the city: Le Meridien and AC Hotels by Marriott. The 20-story development features a 272-room Le Meridien Hotel and a 223-room AC Hotel by Marriott, owned and managed by White Lodging Services Corporation.

The AC Hotel by Marriott Denver Downtown is the lifestyle brand"s first property to open in Denver. Introduced to the U.S. in 2014, the AC Hotel by Marriott brand originated in Europe in 2011 as a joint venture with Spanish hotelier, Antonio Catalan, and now offers a portfolio of over 100 hotels in countries across Europe, Latin America and North America. Inspired by classic European design, the brand is perfectly suited for the modern business traveler, featuring simple, clean and crisp lines that create a feeling of harmony and inspire creativity.

Hotel website
Daniel Zomerfeld joins the InterContinental San Francisco as the Director of Outlets, bringing 17 years of experience to the team. With a degree in business, a three-year hospitality apprenticeship at the Hotel Watthof, and two years in various roles with the four-star Hotel Hafen Hamburg, both in Germany, Daniel is well versed in front- and back-of-house management positions. Prior to joining the InterContinental San Francisco, he spent more than eight years at the Taj Campton Place Hotel in San Francisco, working in numerous roles from banquets to the hotels two-Michelin star restaurant. Zomerfeld will support the Director of Food and Beverage in all aspects of the hotel from banquets and room service to the Michelin-star restaurant Luce and Bar 888
As the definition of luxury is ever evolving, we ask ourselves: Who will be the next big thing? We picked the hotel brands that, we believe, have the potential to make history. Discover The Thief.

Since its opening in Oslo back in 2013, the Thief has redefined the luxury hotel scene in the Norwegian capital. We sat down with Daniel Setekleiv, Commercial Director at The Thief, to understand what makes this hotel so special.

From criminal hub to exclusive destination

The Thief is the brainchild of Petter Stordalen, a Norwegian self-made billionaire and owner of Nordic Choice Hotel, one of Scandinavia's largest hotel chain. Stordalen wanted to make "something really different in Oslo". The hotel name comes from the Tjuvholmen neighbourhood, which translates to "thieves island"(in the 18th century, the area was a hub for criminals). Tjuvholmen can be accessed by waterways. Several yachts are docked in the hotel's surrounding canals, including the Thief's own fleet of two luxurious Riva motor boats.

Stealing you away from everyday life

With two restaurants, two bars (including a rooftop one), a spa and several function rooms, The Thief ticks all the boxes of a luxury hotel. At the heart of the Thief is a story of luxury escapism. In a country known for its natural beauty and minimalist design, The Thief stands out with its modern opulent interior. It takes Scandinavian design to extravagant territories  in which black and gold are kings. Sune Nordgren, the former director of Norway's National Museum of Art has handpicked original artwork for the hotel facilities and each of the 118 rooms. Artworks from the likes of Andy Warhol, Charles Ray or Richard Prince are to be found in every corner of the hotel  including video art in the elevators. About 75% of the hotel customers are travelling for business. Proof that a hotel doesn't need to look and feel like a corporate office to attract business people.

Luxury with a soul

From an interior point of view, the hotel has nothing to envy from the best properties in London, Paris or New York. Yet, The Thief has something that very few hotels possess  a soul. Unlike many stiff and intimidating luxury hotels, The Thief welcomes its guests with a notable laid-back attitude. Wearing dreadlocks and a fitted suit, Dominic Gorham, the hotel guest relations manager is the perfect incarnation of this casual luxury atmosphere. In a promotional video, he emphasised that The Thief doesn't have a rulebook for its staff. It rather gives space for its people to be at their best. The hotel is not particularly trendy though. It just feels like a luxurious hideaway for the wealthy. Daniel Setekleiv concludes: "We are not trying to please the mass market".

Devil is in the detail

During our stay, we were impressed by small service details that had a big impact. At turndown service, for example, a thermos of hot water with 2 cups of tea and biscuits were put in the room. Another example is the breakfast. Its buffet is grandiose and features everything from chia seed pudding to Benedict eggs, and it runs until midday on Sundays. Finally, the in-room shopping is a concept worth mentioning. Nested in a drawer, a selection of travel necessities as well as original objects can be found.

Next on the to-do list of The Thief is the launch of a series of virtual reality videos. These will be used as promotional tools. Daniel notes that "we are trying to use technology to tell stories, not just for convenience". With its fresh take on the luxury hotel business, The Thief stole our heart. It should be a source of inspiration for some of the big brands that have lost their authenticity. While the Thief is meant to remain a one-off project, we will make sure to follow the next independent projects of Petter Stordalen. He has the expertise, the funds and more than anybody else it seems, the passion to make a difference.

Youri Sawerschel

Creative Supply

View source
That new Chano and Gambino joint effort may soon be on the way.

At least thats what Donald Glover is leading us to believe after a very interesting backstage interview during this years Emmy Awards. While the night proved to be prosperous for the multi-hyphenate as he walked away with two trophies for his work on his FX television series Atlanta, he also dropped of a golden snippet of information on the development of the previously-teased joint mixtape with Chance The Rapper.

I dont ever want to do anything because Im forced to, Glover began when responding to a question on whether or not he would continue to do music in light of his on-screen success. I feel like when you do that, things start to get bad and you jump the shark. Also, I feel like if I dont make a Chance the Rapper mixtape, like double mixtape, a bunch of 14-year olds are going to kick my ass. They stop me on the street and its kind of scary. Youth scares me. So, I feel like I got to do something. I probably will.

Thats reassuring news coming from Donald, who one stated that hed be hanging up his musical alter ego of Childish Gambino. Hed later go on to presumably recant on the notion in an interview on BBC Radio, and Sunday nights latest press conference seemed to double down on his reluctance to call it quits on the music.

Outside of the music, however, hes flourished, nabbing his first two Emmy awards on Sunday night, one for Outstanding Director of a Comedy Series, bcoming the first black director to do so, and a second for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. Atlanta has already received the green light on a sophomore season and will resume filming for season 2 at the top of 2018 while Glover films for his role as a young Lando Calrissian on the forthcoming Han Solo spinoff Star Wars film in the meantime.

As for Chance, the Chicago-bred rapper also appeared at the 69th iteration of the awards ceremony, lending a guest verse on host Stephen Colberts opening number. Catch Glovers comments at the 5:15-minute marker below.

Donald & Chance
Drake continues to fill his body with ink, a lot of it paying homage or tribute in some form of another. His most recent set of tattoos are no different. The last Drake Tattoo Adventure (it should be a series) came around mid-summer, when a portrait of Drizzys YMCMB boss and mentor, Lil Wayne, was spotted on Drakes tricep. It appeared to be relatively new, although there was no information as to when he got Weezy F permanently inked on his body. This latest Drake Tattoo Adventure is undoubtedly new, the tattoo artist himself, Inal Bersekov, has shared images of both pieces just a day ago.

Bersekov apparently specializes in realism, and a scan of his Instagram page confirms this he has a wealth of highly realistic, black and white tattoos, thus its clear why Drizzy would trust Bersekov for his two newest tattoos.

Drake recently lost an OVO friend and affiliate, who goes by the name of Fif. Although the circumstances surrounding Fifs death are unclear (the rumor is that he was shot), the death was confirmed by Drake last week via an Instagram post. Beyond just throwing up an RIP on social media, Drake now has a portrait of Fif tatted on him, paying tribute to his fallen friend. Above the portrait it reads FIF FOREVER. Bersekov wrote that he was honored to pay tribute tattooing FIF on my brother.

The other tattoo Drake received from artist Inal Bersekov is yet another portrait, this one paying homage to none other than Denzel Washington. For this piece, Drake and Bersekov pull inspiration from Denzels 1990 film Mo Better Blues, which, directed by Spike Lee, is about a trumpet player who is portrayed Washington hence the profile shot of the actor with a trumpet. Alongside a photo of the new piece, Bersekov reveals that this was his first session on Champagne Papi.

Is this the beginning of a beautiful relationship between the two? Time will tell. Check out Drakes Denzel Washington tribute below. Let us know what you think of either pieces.

Drake
Jordan Brand has just unveiled a preview of their upcoming Holiday Collection, which includes a couple of different Air Jordan 12s, a few new Wheat colorways and the Royal Air Jordan 1 Flyknit. This Holiday season Jordan Brand will continue to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the Air Jordan 13 and explore new colorways, materials and make-ups of the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 6 and Air Jordan 12.

In addition to the aforementioned Royal Air Jordan 1 Flyknit, Jordan Brand will also be releasing two brand new Air Jordan 12s including a suede Bordeaux colorway, which draws on inspiration from Frances rich winemaking tradition, and a Dark Grey rendition which swaps the leather upper for suede and nods to the original Taxi colorway by featuring gold lace eyelets.

The black and green Altitude Air Jordan 13 will also be making its return to retailers for the first time since it debuted in 2005, and it will feature the all-leather OG construction.

Rounding out Jordan Brands Holiday preview is the Golden Harvest and Elemental Gold lineup which includes Wheat versions of the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 6 and Air Jordan 13. Each of these kicks feature soft suede materials and monochromatic color schemes, with the only form of contrast appearing in white on the Air Jordan 6.

Todays announcement by Jordan Brand gives some clarity regarding whats in store for the next few months but theres certainly much more on tap in the final two and a half months of 2017. Rumors continue to suggest there are two Air Jordan 11s on tap for later this year, including an all-red colorway and a Midnight Navy joint, though the brand has yet to confirm any reports.

Jordan Brand has not officially announced release dates for their Holiday Collection but that information is expected sooner than later as we approach the Fall season. Check out some detailed photos of the kicks below and stay tuned for more release info.

Jordans
From remixee to remixer, Kodak Black has had a busy week when it comes to his music. Both Travis Scott and Bhad Bhabie (aka Ms. Cash Me Outside Danielle Bregoli) dropped their own versions of his XXXTentacion collaboration Roll In Peace last week, with hot-and-cold response from HNHH readers as well as social media users. Now, Kodak is back with his very own remix to one of the summers most inescapable songs: Bodak Yellow.

The Florida natives version of Cardi Bs runaway hit song was shared via a social media video that DJ Akademiks made the focus of a clip for his online channels. Blacks flow is solid from what was heard in the small amount of footage, spit bars with ease over the instantly recognizable trap-style production. Interestingly, Cardis song is actually considered to be a remix of sorts to Kodaks No Flockin, a single that came out nearly two years ago and gave the young emcee his entry point on the way to hip-hop stardom. Though Akademiks says that some thought Kodak might be salty because of Bodak gleaning some obvious inspiration from his previous release, apparently thats not the case.

Your mileage may vary on whether his version of Bodak Yellow is better than the original from Cardi B, but only time will tell what the general publics verdict ends up being on that front. Keep in mind, this isnt an official release yet, though we can probably expect the finished version of the remix to drop in the near future. It could be a nice double dip for Kodak financially, since hes supposedly already getting money from Cardi Bs track on top of whatever he might make on his own with the upcoming remix. It should continue a nice run for the rapper, whos still riding the wave of positive buzz from his last full-length LP, Project Baby 2. Its an album that definitely proves Kodak Black is here to stay, with improvements to his technical skill set signaling that we still havent seen the final form of his talent.

What do you think of remix? Fire or trash? Let us know in the comments!

Kodak Black
Kolkata, Sept 18 (IBNS): Uber, the world's largest on-demand ride-sharing company on Monday, announced a partnership with Kolkata Police to allow quick access to Bondhu, a citizen safety mobile app, through the Uber app.

With this initiative, Uber partners with the law enforcement agency to complement the existing safety features on the Uber App.

The Bondhu app allows users to connect directly to the Kolkata Police's control room in case of any emergency

In its first such partnership with a technology firm, Kolkata Police has chosen Uber, validating the companys commitment towards safety. With this partnership, Bondhu will now be accessible to all riders and driver partners in Kolkata in one go. Since its launch in June 22, 2017, around 40,000 people have downloaded the Bondhu app. Uber aims to act as a force multiplier and expand its access to all of Ubers riders.

We take the safety of our riders and drivers very seriously and is high priority at Uber. We are thrilled to be associated with the Kolkata Police in this critical mission. The integration of the Bondhu App is a big step towards further strengthening the safety net available to our riders and drivers, said Arpit Mundra, General Manager, Kolkata. We applaud the efforts taken by the Kolkata Police in adopting technology to provide easy access to law enforcement to the citizens of Kolkata.

The first phase of this partnership will see Uber developing a permanent in-app access for the Bondhu app, including a link to download it from the app store. The second phase will allow users to directly access the Bondhu app from within the Uber app. The third and final phase will involve an API Integration between both the apps.

Vineet Kumar Goyal, Additional Commissioner of Police (I), Kolkata Police, said,  Bondhu app has been an integral technological innovation in providing instant help to our citizens in distress across the city. We have now streamlined the process of providing safety via Bondhu app which makes it easier for our citizens rather than key in the control room number. We welcome this approach of Uber for integrating Bondhu App with Uber App to improve reach so that more people across the city, who are in need of immediate aid during any kind of distress can use this app. We are glad that Uber has taken such a major step in safeguarding the security of all citizens of the city. We look forward towards making this initiatives go a long way.

Moving people from point A to B, is a huge responsibility. We, at Uber, believe that technology provides an incredible opportunity to improve road safety in new and innovative ways before, during and after every ride.

Before the ride begins, a rider can double-check the license plate, driver name and photo shown in the app. Riders are able to see a driver's rating to determine if they wish to proceed with a journey. Drivers are also periodically required to take a selfie before going online to drive with Uber to make sure the driver on the account matches the driver behind the wheel. If the face doesnt match, we block the driver from accepting rides.



During the trip, a rider can share trip details with friends and family, including estimated time of arrival and the specific route taken. The Uber rider app also features an Emergency button that can be used in the rare case of emergency while on an Uber ride to connect with the local police. Our incident response teams also gets notified instantly, and connects with the rider.



After the ride ends, two-way feedback is another way for us to pre-empt and resolve potential issues.
London, Sept 18 (IBNS): Clinicians are being warned not to ignore the increased cardiovascular health risks of those who are classed as either ahealthy obesea or deemed to be anormal weighta but have metabolic abnormalities such as diabetes.

Academics at the University of Birminghams Institute of Applied Health Research carried out the largest study of its kind to date comparing weight and metabolic status to cardiovascular disease risks, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

The study showed that individuals who are metabolically healthy obese (MHO)  those who are obese but do not suffer metabolic abnormalities such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol - have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease events compared to those who are normal weight without metabolic abnormalities.

The academics used electronic health records of 3.5 million British adults who were all initially free of cardiovascular disease (CVD). They then revisited each patients record, at an average of 5 years and four months later, in order to assess whether they had gone on to develop each of four kinds of CVD events  coronary heart disease (CHD), cerebrovascular disease (in particular strokes), heart failure, or peripheral vascular disease (PVD).

Patients were divided into four body size phenotypes using Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing body weight (kg) by height (m) squared:

1. Underweight (BMI less than 18.5)

2. Normal weight (more than 18 but less than 25)

3. Overweight (more than 25 but less than 30)

4. Obese (more than 30).

Three metabolic abnormalities were taken into consideration during the study: diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. A metabolically healthy person was classified as having no metabolic abnormalities.

The results showed that those who were MHO had a 49 per cent higher risk of coronary heart disease, seven per cent higher risk of cerebrovascular disease and a 96 per cent increased risk of heart failure than normal weight metabolically healthy individuals.

Importantly, it also showed that normal weight individuals with one or more metabolic abnormalities had an increased risk of CHD, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure and PVD compared to normal weight individuals without metabolic abnormalities.

The research results raise questions around the concept of healthy obesity. Whether metabolically healthy obesity is associated with excess risk of cardiovascular disease has remained a subject of debate for many years due to limitations in previous studies. Academics at the University of Birmingham sought to address these limitations in the largest prospective study of its kind.

Lead author and epidemiologist Dr Rishi Caleyachetty, of the Institute of Applied Health Research University of Birmingham, said: In our study, we had unprecedented statistical power to examine body size phenotypes by the number of metabolic abnormalities, potentially reflecting several definitions of the metabolically healthy phenotype in relation to a range of CVD events.

Obese individuals with no metabolic risk factors are still at a higher risk of coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and heart failure than normal weight metabolically healthy individuals.

So-called metabolically healthy obesity is clearly not a harmless condition and the term should no longer be used in order to prevent misleading individuals that obesity can be healthy.

Senior author Professor Neil Thomas, also of the University of Birmingham, said it was important that clinicians took on board the research findings.

The finding that normal weight individuals with metabolic abnormalities also had similar risk of cardiovascular disease events than normal weight metabolically healthy individuals has important implications. he added.

In many countries it is currently recommended that clinicians in primary care settings use overweight and obesity as the main criteria to screen adults for cardiovascular risk factors as part of cardiovascular risk assessment. Our research suggests that this could result in the failure to identify metabolic abnormalities, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, in many normal weight patients.

Senior author and Public Health physician Dr Krish Nirantharakumar, also of the University of Birmingham, said: We conclude that obese patients, irrespective of their metabolic status, should be encouraged to lose weight and that early detection and management of normal weight individuals with metabolic abnormalities will be beneficial in the prevention of CVD events.
Kolkata, Sep 18 (IBNS): Rotary Club of Calcutta Metro City recently donated Desifer oral medicine worth Rs 59,500 to the Thalassaemia Society of India for the treatment of underprivileged thalassaemic children.

Approximately 350 children and young adults undergo blood transfusion and iron chelation at their Muktaram Babu Street day care centre in Kolkata.

Rotary Club of Calcutta Metro City supports the centre through blood donation camps, medicines etc.

The Society runs a 14 bed day care centre providing subsidized and free facility to 350 patients.

Free pathological tests are organised for patients. Over 200 blood donations camps have been organized.

Rotary has been supporting the cause over the past three decades mainly through awareness camps, funds for equipment from different Rotary clubs of Switzerland, Italy, Germany.

Present on the occasion were Past District governor Shyamashree Sen, District Rotary Foundation Chair Jayanta Chatterji, Past District Secretary Subhojit Roy, Club President Bandana Das among others.
Dehradun, Sep 18 (IBNS): Haridwar police have arrested at least five people for their alleged involvement in running a kidney racket in a Uttarakhand hospital, reports said.

The arrested individuals allegedly ran the racket in Gangotri Charitable Hospital, located on the outskirts of Dehradun.

But it was a coincidence that the man who first reported the activities was present there.

Recalling his experience, constable Pankaj Sharma, posted at Ranipur police station in Haridwar, told Times of India, "It was early August and I was having morning tea at a roadside shop, when I heard two people sitting next to me talking about the goings-on in their hospital. They mentioned an organ racket running there although they did not mention the name of the hospital."

Sharma was there in plainclothes when he heard about the scheme.

Later he decided to narrate the incident to his seniors, sub-inspector Abhinav Sharma and inspector Pradeep Bisht, who went and raised the matter with Haridwar senior superintendent of police (SSP) Krishna Kumar V K.

"I was informed that there were some leads that a possible organ racket was running in our area. However, the leads were not specific, since we did not know the name of the hospital or the persons suspected to be involved in it. Nevertheless, I formed a team to work on whatever clues we had," Kumar told the daily.

After a month's hard work, during which the team developed rapport with sources, both inside and outside the hospital, the perpetrators were nabbed on Sep 10, acting on specific information.

For his role in busting the racket, Sharma's name has been recommended by Haridwar Police for a medal, while the state police headquarters said that they will reward the constable during 2018 Republic Day parade.
Ahmedabad, Sep 18 (IBNS) : Deposing before a special court, BJP President Amit Shah on Monday backed former minister Mayaben Kodnani in the 2002 Narona massacre case, saying that he was in the hospital during the riots, media reports said.

"I was not allowed entry into the post-mortem room. I met with family members of the Godhra victims whose post mortem and identification was completed. There were several Karyakartas with me, people were angry and were raising slogans when I was coming out of the hospital, CNN News18 quoted Amit Shah as saying.

"Maya Kodnani did not go to Naroda Gam between being at the assembly session and Sola hospital. We did speak about appearing as a witness in the Naroda Patiya case but the SIT has not bothered to ask me whether I was with her on February 28, 2002, or not" he said.

Shah was summoned to depose before the court as a witness in favour of Maya Kodani, who is accused of leading a mob of thousands of people and inciting them for violence in Naroda Gaam in which 11 Muslims were killed.

Kodnanis lawyer Amit Patel moved an application and prayed that summons be issued to Amit Shah at his Ahmedabad address.

The court granted direct service to her lawyer for sending the summons.

Kodani is among the 82 accused who are facing trial.

In 2012, Kodani was convicted on similar charges and sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in Naroda Patiya massacre, a place close to Naroda Gam. She was held as the kingpin of the riots.

She and 31 other convicts have challenged the verdict in the Gujarat High Court which concluded its hearing on August 30 and reserved the verdict.
New Delhi, Sep 18 (IBNS) : The Centre on Monday filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court stating that the presence of Rohingyas Muslims in the country poses national security threats as intelligence reports suggest links of a section of the immigrants, branded stateless in Myanmar, with Pak-based terror groups.

According to reports, the Centre also told the apex court that whether or not Rohingya refugees should be allowed to settle in the country be left to the Executive.

The top court had asked the Government to file the affidavit following a petition against the deportation of the illegal immigrants to Myanmar.

The Centre said in the apex court: As far as Rohingyas are concerned, they claimed to have entered from Myanmar using porous border between India and Myanmar. The total number of such illegal immigrants into our country would be more than 40,000 approximately as on date.

Rohingya presence in the country has serious national security ramifications and it poses national security threats. Illegal influx of Rohingyas into India started in 2012-13 and inputs suggest links of some of the immigrants with Pak-based terror groups. 

The Supreme Court has granted Centre time till October three to submit its response to petition filed by Rohingyas opposing proposed deportation.
New Delhi, Sep 18 (IBNS) : With a 17-gun salute Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Arjan Singh was on Monday accorded a state funeral with the highest military honours, reports said.

Singh's mortal remains were earlier carried on a gun carriage, draped in the national tricolour, and taken to Delhi's Brar Square for the last rites.

Defence Minister Namrata Sitharaman, Former PM Manmohan Singh followed the air force officers carrying the casket.

Military band played farewell tune as the entire nation bed adieu to the 1965 war hero, who was the only defence officer to have received five star decoration.

Sukhoi fighter jets flew past in the missing man formation in honour of the Indian Air Force's only Marshal.

Arjan Singh passed away at a hospital in New Delhi on Saturday. He was 98.

He was admitted to the hospital following a cardiac arrest, read a government statement.

He was being treated at the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Sciences Centre of the hospital.
New Delhi, Sept 18 (IBNS): The Indian government on Monday announced it has appointed senior IPS officer Y C Modi chief of the National Investigation Agency.

Modi will hold the post till his superannuation on May 31, 2021.

"Appointment of Shri Y. C. Modi, IPS (AM:84), Additional Director, CBI as Director General, National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a period upto the date of his superannuation i.e. 31.05.2021, from the date of assumption of charge of the post or until further orders, whichever is earlier vice Shri Sharad Kunnar, IPS (HY: 79) (Retd.) on completion of his tenure on 30.10.2017," read a government statement.

Modi was part of the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team that probed the 2002 Gujarat riot cases.

Modi, a 1984 batch IPS officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, is at present special director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

He will succeed Sharad Kumar whose tenure ends on Oct 30.
Image: www.pib.nic.in

New Delhi, Sept 18 (IBNS): Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh operationalised the New Intelligence Set-up of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at a function here on Monday.

This marked the culmination of a long pending aspiration of the Force following approval of the Union Home Minister.

SSB has been declared as the Lead Intelligence Agency (LIA) for both the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders.

Thus, it was felt that a well knit intelligence network of the highest capabilities that can function and deliver would be the prime requirement of comprehensive Border Management.

This was quite essential as the operations of SSB have to be Intelligence based so as to prevent criminals and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan. MHA has accordingly sanctioned 650 posts in various ranks from Battalion to Frontier Headquarters.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh said the job of SSB is much more demanding and challenging since it is vested the responsibility of guarding open borders unlike other borders.

"This makes the task much more challenging and demands highest alertness to check illegal activities like smuggling of arms, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), drugs and human-trafficking," said he.

Commending the leadership shown by Archana Ramasundaram, who is the first woman to head any CAPF, the Union Home Minister said she has proved her mettle by leading a paramilitary force with exemplary skills.

Singh cautioned the Forces personnel to keep a tab on rumour-mongering over the social media.

Assuring the Governments concern about the welfare of the CAPF personnel and their families, the Union Home Minister said he has taken steps to ensure a martyrs family gets atleast Rs. 1 crore compensation. He urged the CAPF Officers each to adopt a CAPF martyrs family.

On the occasion, the Union Home Minister launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) Mobile App for CAPF personnel.

The App is available on Google Play store and is user friendly. It contains various useful features to facilitate retired CAPFs and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances redressed, seek skill development training through National Skill Development Corporation under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information.

This mobile App shall also help retired personnel to have better co-ordination with WARB and its field formation at states/UTs and district level.

Singh released the book Pride of India, a compilation on SSB martyrs and awardees. He also distributed scholarships to children of SSB martyrs.

Till date 43 Officers and personnel of SSB have sacrificed their lives for national security. This year Amal Sarkar made the supreme sacrifice after gunning down one militant in an encounter with NDFB militants in Chirang district of Assam.

SSB Wives Welfare Association SANDIKSHA has taken up the task to help out wards of such martyrs under the Sanrakshan scheme.

SANDIKSHA is providing financial help to children of martyrs who are still studying in school, colleges and universities to continue their studies.

In his address MoS (Home) Hansarj Gangaram Ahir said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid emphasis on Police Modernization and the Government is committed to carry it forward.

Welcoming the new Intelligence Wing of the SSB, Director, Intelligence Bureau, Rajiv Jain said it will act like a force multiplier. Directors-General of CAPFs were present on the occasion.

Director General, SSB, Archana Ramasundaram said that the Forces Operations are mostly based on Intelligence hence the new Intelligence set-up will help effective guarding of Indias open borders with Nepal and Bhutan.

The Force has undertaken Modernization programme and the SSB has acquired two UAVs while the MHA has approved three Bomb Detection and Disposal squads for the SSB, she added.
Image: Facebook

Atlanta, Sep 18 (IBNS): Atlanta police shot dead an LGBT student activist, who disobeyed orders to put down a knife he was carrying, reports said.

The incident took place on Saturday at a campus in Atlanta and has lead to an independent investigation.

The deceased has been identified as Scout Schultz, the president of the Pride Alliance at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Police said they reached the scene following a phonecall about a man carrying lethal weapon.

The entire scene was captured on video by another student, showing the 21-year-old refusing to obey police orders to put don the sharp object.

According to the footage, the deceased was shot dead as he started to confront the officers while shouting 'shoot me'.

However, it has sparked a backlash from Schultz's mother, who said that the police was wrong in using a lethal weapon.

Schultz identified himself as non-binary, which is also referred to as genderqueer or GQ, a term for people who express a combination of masculinity and femininity, or neither, in their gender expression.

Schultz's mother added that the deceased suffered from various medical issues, including depression and had attempted suicide a couple of years ago.




Notes from Indian Country

Gov. Daugaard needs to learn South Dakota historyBy Tim Giago (Nanwica Kiciji  Stands Up For Them)

South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard (R-SD) writes occasional columns for the state-wide newspapers. He never sends a copy for us at Native Sun News Today to publish because it appears he believes that South Dakotas Indian population isnt interested in the functions of state government or maybe it because he writes things that are apparently of no interest to us.

On Saturday he started his latest column for our local daily with, On Friday morning, Sept. 29, a few dozen cowboys will put on their boots and saddle their horses. Custer State Park employees will arise before dawn. And thousands from across the state, country and world will gather, all to continue a 52-year tradition.

The Governor is of course referring to the annual Buffalo Roundup held at Custer State Park and if he knew his history he would know that rounding up the buffalo is an event that has taken place in South Dakota for thousands of years, not just 52.

And in his next paragraph the Governor had a perfect opportunity to explain a part of Americas history that does not appear in its history books, but being a white South Dakotan first, he totally ignored this factual history. He wrote, At one time, there were about 60 million buffalo roaming North America, but that number fell to fewer than 2,000 in the early twentieth century. Why did nearly 60 million buffalo stop roaming North America?

If Daugaard had taken us back to the early 20th century he would have told us about the hundreds of thousands of buffalo carcasses lying on the ground all across the Plains and the herds of 60 million were systematically destroyed in order for the United States to conquer a people. He would have written about how the buffalo was everything to the Plains Indians. It was their food, their shelter, their clothing, their tools and above all else, their spirituality or religion as the white man calls it.

Without the buffalo the government knew they could bring the tribes of the Plains to their knees through starvation. And so the beautiful buffalo, the brothers and sisters to the Sioux, Blackfeet, Crow, Ponca and other Tribes was destroyed.

Slowly the population of the buffalo has grown and at the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup a herd of about 1,300 will be herded and rounded up. It is hard to stomach the fact that a few dozen cowboys will be doing the job that Native Americans did for thousands of years. And to add insult to injury, for more than 5 years I have been imploring the Custer State Park Service to include Native American riders in the roundup.

This year I thought I had finally made a breakthrough. On August 11, I spoke with Lydia Austin, Interpretive Programs Manager for the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and was assured by her that the next week at their board meeting she would bring up my request to the full board. It never happened. As I did in the past I told her that if there were Sioux warriors dressed in their traditional regalia allowed to participate in the roundup, it would bring thousands of more visitors to the Black Hills from all around the world. And it would have opened a door to reconciliation. It is apparent that there are no members of the SDGF and P with any historical vision of what was and what can be. I think most of their board, past and present, has been living inside Wind Cave for the past century.

Any Grade B Hollywood movie director can envision such a wonderful historic sight of Native Americans riding into the herd of buffalo as they did in Kevin Costners Dances with Wolves. Are there no people in the Parks Service with any vision? Of course, DWW also showed the carcasses of the buffalo spread across the plains as they lay slaughtered by the white man to destroy the Indian.

The Roundup will never bring a sense of true history to South Dakota until the original people are allowed to participate. Lydia Austin knew of my request, promised to take it to the board meeting, and then promptly forgot about it. Gov. Daugaard needs to study the history of the state he serves and not write columns that blatantly distorts that history.

So once again I am totally disappointed that such a simple request can be overlooked and denied. Let the Sioux warriors ride in the roundup. The buffalo is still a sacred animal to them.

Join the Conversation
Dateline How is Coverage of Rakhine Affecting Myanmars Image?

The Irrawaddy

Kyaw Zwa Moe: Welcome to Dateline Irrawaddy! It has been three weeks since violence broke out in Rakhine States Maungdaw. But, conflicts continue on the ground. Well discuss to what extent the home ministry has been able get the situation under control, to what extent the situation on the ground can impact on Myanmars image on the international stage, and how political opportunists are instigating instability elsewhere in the country. Ethnic affairs analyst Ko Maung Maung Soe and journalist Ko Thiha who has recently covered developments in Rakhine State join me to discuss this. Im Irrawaddy English editor Kyaw Zwa Moe.

Ko Thiha, you have just come back from a government-guided [press] tour in Rakhine State. What did you see on the ground, because weve seen fake photos. How is the administration there?

Thiha: Alel Than Kyaw village, whose police station was attacked [on August 25], was hit hardest. We were there. We were also in Muslim villages which were destroyed by fire. We were also in ethnic Arakanese villages. We saw big flocks of unattended poultry and cattle wandering around in abandoned villages, mostly Muslim villages. We saw damaged bazaars in Muslim villages. We have been to villages and bazaars where Muslim and ethnic Arakanese people live and sell together. Some shops were burnt and some were just damaged, and goods remained intact in there. We also saw looters. The administrative officials and security forces should give protection for those places which have experienced conflicts and from where people have fled. Otherwise, crimes can happen afterwards. We saw arson attacks every day on our trip. Though we were not at the scenes of fire in person, we could see flames. There were also reciprocal accusations. And they will not stop if security personnel are not guarding those places. It is difficult to say who is responsible.

KZM: You mean for arson attacks?

Thiha: Circumstances allow anyone to loot belongings, household appliances and cattle and poultry left behind by those who fled conflicts. So, it is also possible for anyone to carry out arson attacks. If security forces are guarding, I think there might not be arson attacks in abandoned villages. It would be difficult for anyone to carry out arson attacks if there are systematic security arrangements.

KZM: You mean security and administrative agencies dont and cant give protection to those villages to prevent arson attacks?

Thiha: Yes, and to prevent looting and theft as well. There should be more systematic arrangements. Again, there are villages where militants were hiding. I heard that they return to those villages secretly at night. If security forces guard those villages, they will be able to arrest militants. So, there is a need to take better care of those villages.

KZM: U Maung Maung Soe, what have you heard from those areas? Administration has collapsed in those areas as Ko Thiha has pointed out. Weve seen various news reports on the issue. Foreign news agencies claimed that it is Arakanese people who set fire to villages, and there were also reports of Muslim people torching villages. What measures should be taken to put things under control there?

MMS: My view is at the same time [the government] is responding to the attacks of ARSA [Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army]. some normality has been restored now. Almost all the ethnic people have fled from their homestheir population is just about 30,000, and more than 26,000 have fled. The [number of] Bengali people who have fled to the other side [Bangladesh] is reported to have increased from 100,000 to 300,000.

KZM: The figure is around 300,000 now.

[Editors Note: The self-identifying Rohingya Muslim community in Rakhine is referred to by many in Myanmar as Bengali. Additionally, UN figures have increased since this interview, and now suggest that about 400,000 have fled to Bangladesh as of Sept. 15]

MMS: Figures are changing. Under such circumstances, besides responding to ARSA for security, [the government] must firstly have a plan to stabilize the region.

KZM: As quickly as possible?

MMS: Yes. What is required right now is to form a committee to stabilize Maungdaw, before implementing recommendations of Kofi Annans commission on the Bengali issue. That committee must be formed with government officials, and Tatmadaw and police who are responsible for security as well as local ethnic people and Bengali people. That committee should survey the number of ethnic and Bengali villages, and put them under administrative control, and provide assistance and protection for them. This is the first thing to do. Another thing is the belongings of the people who have fled from their homes should be safeguarded as Ko Thiha has said. There will be cattle and personal valuables left behind. There should be a committee to take responsibility to keep them safe with the help of security forces. The possible controversy over ownership of those things is not the problem now. The government must first handle the chaotic conditions; otherwise there will be looters and opportunists exploiting the situation. So, there must be a committee tasked with this. At the same time, the government must survey the population of Bengalis in the region. And they must be put under the governments jurisdiction. The government must also provide help to them. There is an urgent need to form a committee to do these [tasks].

KZM: We havent seen such steps from the government so far, have we?

Thiha: Yes, we didnt see it in our tour.

KZM: About the arson attacks, there are people who asked someone to deliberately set fire to houses and took and spread pictures. The woman in Muslim clothes in those pictures was found to be a Hindu woman, and the pictures were made up. The government said it would take action against such actions. What did you see and hear about such things?

Thiha: We received those pictures during our tour. At first, we believed in those pictures. The people who gave those pictures to us told us as if they took those pictures themselves. But later we thought that we needed to verify those pictures and should not release them immediately. Then, those pictures spread on internet, and it was pointed out that they were fabricated photos. After ARSA attacked 30 police outposts, including the one in Alel Than Kyaw village [on August 25], we have seen propagandist pieces in international [media] with fabricated news reports and pictures [saying] that counter military operations had killed many innocent civilians and Muslims. Their propaganda was so strong that the attack of ARSA was even covered up. As they [ARSA] attack on the ground [in Rakhine State], they also try to win the attention and sympathy of the international community by spreading fake reports through international media and social media.

KZM: One of the most noticeable examples is the deputy Turkish prime minister spreading propaganda with fake photos, and Myanmars government responded to it.

Thiha: Yes, it is. So, there might be people in Rakhine who thought of countering fake with fake. This is how I see the fabricated photos [of the Myanmar side]. [Myanmar] is not as good as them at fabricating. So, it was easily exposed. In the cases of killings and arson attacks on the ground, responses may vary depending on walks of life, social standards and attitude. I think the [fabricated] photos [of Muslim torching their houses] are acts of some people who responded to wrong with the other side of wrong.

KZM: Myanmars image has been badly marred in the international community in connection with this issue. According to the UN, around 300,000 have fled to the other side. This has received international coverage. But there are also fabricated reports at the same time. So how do you think weespecially the governmentshould respond to these [reports]?

MMS: Firstly, they should respond with practical actions, for example, forming a stability committee to stabilize and assert administrative control in Maungdaw. Secondly, I think it would be best to allow media unfettered access into the area. The more the media is restricted, the deeper international trust will decline. Our country is used to state-run newspapers, the old propaganda pieces such as BBC and VOA Airing Skyful of Lies dont work now. If ARSA really did terrorist acts, we must give the media access into the area. We must show the international community what they are doing. This is the best response for us. This is the problem in Maungdaw, and it is important not to drag it to other parts of the country. Since the first week of September, it has been portrayed as racial or religious issue and hate speech was spread. There were rumors that there would be attacks on September 11. Buddhists claimed that Islam would do jihad, and Islamic jihadists claimed that Buddhists would demolish Islamic mosques. We need to find out and take actions against those who spread such rumors. We have cyber police who can do this. Actions must be taken against them. Anyway, the case that happened in Taungdwingyi can be called a terrorist act.

KZM: Do you think there are opportunists who manipulate the Maungdaw case for their political gains? Was the Taungdwingyi case organized or was it just accidental?

MMS: There are two parts. Some young people with extreme religious and racial views may be involved, and political opportunists maybe also involved. No matter who does such thingseither political opportunists or those with radical viewsunder the current circumstances, one thing is surethe image of our country will be tarnished by this.

KZM: Such acts are not acceptable.

MMS: Yes. Another thing is instigating violence elsewhere in the country will not help solve the problem. In the case of the problem in southern Thailand, they dont bring the problem to Bangkok. The problem happened a long time ago, and has yet to be resolved. But they dont bring that problem to Bangkok. But in our case we are bringing the Maungdaw problem to Yangon and Mandalay. We should only focus on how to correctly solve the Maungdaw problem in Maungdaw. Another thing is that not only the image of the government is marred by the conflicts as some people think; the image of the Myanmar society will also be marred, and so is the image of Buddhism.

KZM: The image of the whole country will be marred.

MMS: Again, the image of those who are responsible for security will also be marred. They need to be consciously aware of this.

KZM: Ko Thiha, the government is taking actions, yet some actions are not satisfactory. The Union Solidarity and Development Party [USDP] and other civil society organizations [CSOs] have held discussions on the Rakhine issue. Recently, USDP had a discussion, attended by its chairman. What did you hear from them about their responses?

Thiha: Partly because it is an ex-ruling party, and partly because it is the opposition now, it seems that they are opposing any action of the governmentnot just supporting the good actions and criticizing the bad ones. Whenever chances arise, they always try to portray the civilian government as unqualified, incapable, and not understanding administration. Under current circumstances, official political parties should have righteousness and restraint with their criticism of the government, considering the interests of the country.

KZM: Ko Maung Maung Soe, what is your assessment of it? It concerns the whole country though it is happening in Maungdaw. It can impact the political image of the whole country. What is your assessment of the stances of various institutions: the government, political parties and Tatmadaw on this issue?

MMS: My view is USDP should cooperate with NLD to solve this. It should not blame it. Because the problem broke out in 2012 and went on for around four years under the USDP government before the power transfer in 2016. Those people stayed in refugee camps for over four years. It has only been more than one year since the NLD government has tried to solve this problem. The problem exploded after five years. I didnt see any concrete steps taken by the USDP government to solve the problem during its term. Im not casting blame one-sidedly. The USDP government worked on the peace process and formulated the NCA [nationwide ceasefire agreement] and the NLD government is now working on that path. But the USDP government did nothing about the Rakhine issue. So, the NLD government does not have any plan in hand to continue. It has to start a new one. The USDP should cooperate with the NLD government because it did nothing about the Rakhine issue while it was in power and also because the case has gotten international attention.

KZM: Thank you for your contribution.
In Person Myanmar will Worsen if the Peace Process Stalls

RCSS/SSA-S Chairman Gen Yawd Serk / Chit Min Tun / The Irrawaddy

Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army-South (RCSS/SSA-S), one of the signatory ethnic armed groups of the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA), recently held separate meetings with State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Vice-Senior General Soe Win, deputy commander-in-chief of the Myanmar Army, and foreign diplomats in Myanmar.

The group has clashed with the Myanmar Army at least 20 times since it signed the NCA in October 2015. RCSS/SSA-S Chairman Gen Yawd Serk talked to The Irrawaddy about the meetings, peace process and the Rakhine crisis.

What did you discuss with the Chinese diplomats?

Overall, two thingswe urged China to encourage Myanmars peace process, and encourage [armed ethnic] groups along the Myanmar-China border to sign the NCA. We also exchanged views on the problems facing Myanmar.

The third session of 21st Century Panglong Conference will be held soon. NCA non-signatories may be able to attend it, but would be barred from joining the decision-making process. What is the view of NCA signatories on this?

It is good if they can attend. But it depends on the government.

RCSS designated the areas of Homein and Mong Hta [in Southern Shan State] as its headquarters. It also signed the NCA with the government. What did the deputy commander-in-chief of the Myanmar Army discuss at the meeting?

We agreed to designate those areas as our headquarters in the Union-level peace talks. What the army understands is all the RCSS should be stationed there. But, according to our agreement at the Union-level peace talks, well only deploy 60 troops there. We dont have any agreement with the army about territories in state- or Union-level agreements or even in the NCA.

According to our understanding, the ceasefire is about stopping fighting. We should stop at the places where we are and stop exchanging fire. Weve opened liaison offices in Taunggyi, Kholan, Kengtung, Tachilek, Muse, and Mong Pan to avoid misunderstandings, but the army barely makes contact with those liaison offices.

[Editors Note: SSA-S has about 8,000 troops active in a number of townships in eastern, southern and northern Shan State.]

There are concerns that the Rakhine crisis can hinder the peace process. What is RCSSs view on it?

We know no more than was reported about the issue in the news. According to news reports, the crisis seems to be a big issue, but it appears not as serious as it sounds.

There were no serious armed clashes, and what we saw in the media is they were attacking with swords and sticks. We think it is just an inter-communal issue. Therefore, I dont think it will impact upon peace. The country will get worse if the peace process is stalled. The Rakhine issue should also be resolved through dialogue; otherwise, the problem wont end. It is important that we know the root cause of the problem, and address it. It is not a problem that needs to be settled with arms.

In Rakhine, some of the Muslim community self-identifies as Rohingya, but most Myanmar citizens reject that term and only recognize them as Bengalis, implying they are interlopers from Bangladesh. What is RCSSs view on this?

We have limited access to news reports about the issue and barely know about the history. We have no idea about it, so no comment.

What do you say to allegations that RCSS is supporting Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA) to use it as a bargaining chip in the peace process?

Weve nothing to do with it. We are [geographically] separated by the Irrawaddy River.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Burma Analysis: Australian Miner Eyes Opportunity Amid Conflict in Shan State

Bawdwin mine site, as seen in 2015. / The Irrawaddy

A recent announcement from Myanmar Metals, a mining firm listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, has described northern Shan States Bawdwin mining site as one of the largest underdeveloped zinc, lead, silver and copper deposits in the world.

The companywhich was, until August, known as Top End Mineralsis currently in the process of acquiring mining rights for the locale.

It remains to be seen if the firms lofty predictions will be realized. Even if detailed, ongoing studies of the area do indeed prove that the Bawdwin mine is as lucrative as Myanmar Metals hopes, developing and then running a mine in northern Shan State will be accompanied by significant challenges.

A presentation released by the Perth-based Myanmar Metals describes Shan State as awash with opportunity, yet much of Myanmars largest state continues to be awash with drug and arms trade, as well as ongoing conflict.

Clashes between the military and several ethnic armed groups have persisted in recent years across a wide stretch of countryside in northern Shan State. Namtu Township, where the Bawdwin mine is located, has seen repeated clashes between the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Myanmars military, as recently as mid-September. There has also been fighting between the TNLA and the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), an armed group presently in a ceasefire with the central government. The TNLA continues to maintain a strong presence on the ground in the region despite military efforts to drive them out.

While Myanmar Metals touts the mineral potential of Shan State and the Bawdwin site, there does not appear to be any mention on the firms website or in its filings with stock market regulators in Australia of the ongoing conflict and continued displacement of thousands of refugees in the region. This arguably leaves potential investors with an incomplete understanding of the situation on the ground in Namtu Township.

Other foreign mining firms who have sought to do business in northern Shan State have come up against a range of difficulties. In October 2014, the Hong Kong-based Asia Pacific Mineral Limited (APML) was granted an exploration permit for minerals in the region, a concession that included areas adjacent to the Bawdwin mine site. Reuters reported that just three days after APML was granted the permit, clashes between the army and the TNLA broke out near their concession.

Rights and Ownership

According to Myanmar Metals, the companys main priority with Bawdwin is to obtain, assess and validate the historical geology, drilling, underground sampling, and mining data that provided the basis for estimates, according to figures originally obtained by another Australian firm, Mandalay Mining Co. NL (MMC). In the late 1990s, Mandalay Mining had an exploration permit for the area around Bawdwin and conducted feasibility work there, but the firms activities on the site were eventually suspended.

Whether the struggles Mandalay Mining faced when trying to move the project forward some 20 years ago will affect Myanmar Metals today remains to be seen. Should the firm go ahead with developing Bawdwin, it is likely that Myanmar Metals will face a series of regulatory hurdles in addition to the logistical issues involved with operating in a state that has been home to some form of civil war since the 1950s.

Myanmar Metals recently reached a deal with the local entity that currently controls the rights for Bawdwin, which enabled the Australian firm to secure the option to acquire an 85% interest in the mine. As part of the deal, Myanmar Metals paid what it described as a non-refundable deposit of US$1.5 million to Win Myint Mo Industries Co. (WMM). WMM have a mining and production sharing agreement for Bawdwin with Mining Enterprise No. 1, a state owned entity held by the Ministry of Mines. Myanmar Metals in turn borrowed the funds for this payment from Yandal Investments, a privately held firm that is controlled by mining entrepreneur Mark Creasy, dubbed a superstar prospector in his native Australia.

Information disclosed by Myanmars first ever Extraction Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) report, released in November 2015, indicates that WMM is 60 percent owned by someone named Hla Myint Myanmar, with the remaining 40 percent owned by Aye Aye Aung. While the pair are officially the owners on paper, WMM has been described by local media covering Shan State as being a subsidiary of Asia World, the conglomerate founded by Lo Hsing Han, a Kokang Chinese entrepreneur dubbed the Godfather of Heroin by US officials in the 1970s. When The Irrawaddy visited Bawdwin back in 2015, Asia World was maintaining a skeleton crew at the mine site, which appeared to be barely functioning.

Lo Hsing Hans son Steven Law, who inherited control of Asia World from his late father, achieved a significant victory last year when both he and the company were removed from the US sanctions list. However, the US treasury department has yet to retract its claim describing the origins of Laws career: Steven Law joined his fathers drug empire in the 1990s and has since become one of the wealthiest individuals in Burma, read the announcement about Laws inclusion on the US sanctions list, which is still accessible on the US governments website.

A deal similar to the one put forward by Myanmar Metals saw Asia World make a payment of $500,000 last November to acquire an option to buy a 60 percent stake in Cornerstone Resources (Myanmar) Ltd (CRML). CMRL is an entity owned by Australian and Chinese investors and that operates a zinc refinery in Lashioa major town in northern Shan Stateas well as a zinc mine at Long Keng. The window for Myanmar Metals to move forward with this buy expired in August.

Following in Herbert Hoovers Footsteps

Bawdwin has been the site of mining operations for centuries. Before embarking on a political career, young Herbert HooverPresident of the United States from 1929 until 1933initially traveled the world working as a mining engineer, and first arrived at Bawdwin in 1907, where both he and his wife contracted malaria. According to his memoirs, he and his colleagues saw tiger tracks in one of the mineshafts during a field visit. To fight a Bengal tiger with a miners candlestick made no appeal whatever to either of us. With no delay and with steadily increasing panic, we made for the entrance. The tiger, fortunately, was not of an inquiring turn of mind and did not come to greet us, wrote Hoover about his time in what became known as the tiger tunnel.

Hoovers involvement with and expansion of the Burma Mine Corporation at Bawdwin earned him much of his fortune, according to his biographer; during the colonial period, Bawdwin was considered one of the most lucrative mines in the world.

The Second World War saw much of the infrastructure at the mine severely damaged by fighting. Though operations began again after the war, the mines nationalization in 1965 by General Ne Wins newly installed regime led to a significant drop in production at Bawdwin. New Zealand academic Peter John Perry chalked this up to mismanagement in his book Myanmar (Burma) Since 1962: The Failure of Development.

The site was also attacked during the Ne Win years by various armed groups at war with the government. In 1974, Ne Wins regime was forced to withdraw all foreign advisers from the area, after a German mining technician working at Bawdwin was kidnapped by an ethnic armed group and held for ransom, which the West German government was compelled to pay.

The Bawdwin mine remained state-owned until it was sold off during the rapid wave of privatization that took place at the end of Snr-Gen Than Shwes regime. Reports from the area indicate that years of mining operations at Bawdwin have significantly polluted the surrounding landscape, with toxic runoff from the site flowing into local waterways. The result of decades of mining operations, has, in the words of one report from 2000, left a deleterious impact on the health of workers and local residents, a legacy to be considered as the rights to the site may shift once again to new prospectors.
Burma Karen Govt Shuns Lawsuit Against Nationalist Rally Organizers

A nationalist rally at Taunggalay Ground in Karen State capital Hpa-an on Sept. 10, (Buddha Dhamma Charity Foundation (central))

NAYPYITAW  The Karen State Government will not file a lawsuit against organizers of an unauthorized nationalist rally at Taunggalay Ground in Karen State capital Hpa-an on Sept. 10, according to state chief minister Daw Nan Khin Htwe Myint.

The state government rejected the application for the event because of security concerns, according to an organizer, but the rally went ahead, pushing an administrator to request that the state sue the organizers.

Daw Nan Khin Htwe Myint decided not to take action in consideration of their emotional outburst. The four speakers at the rally, including the ultranationalist monk U Wirathu, focused on the Rakhine crisis.

We wont tolerate it next time, Daw Nan Khin Htwe Myint told reporters after she attended a central executive committee meeting of the National League for Democracy (NLD) in Naypyitaw on Sunday.

The Karen State Association for Protection of Race and Religion claimed about 40,000 people attended the event. The chapterknown by its Myanmar acronym Ma Ba Thahas defied a countrywide ban by the State Buddhist Sangha authority from operating under its current name.

The state Buddhist authority banned U Wirathu from delivering sermons for one year, starting from March 10, due to his religious hate speech. Despite the ban, he addressed the crowd, aiming most of his words at the NLD government for what he said was its neglect of Buddhists.

Maung Thway Chun, chief editor of the Ma Ba Thas recently suspended weekly journals, columnist for those publications, U Kyaw Swe, and writer Anyataya Kapiya also spoke at the event.

The Karen State chief minister said the outburst was understandable since about 30,000 Arakanese and Hindus were internally displaced in Rakhine State following Aug. 25 Muslim militant attacks on police stations, according to government figures.

The attacks provoked communal violence and an army crackdown which has seen about 400,000 self-identifying Rohingya flee to Bangladesh so far, according to the UN.

We have a lot to do to move forward. There is no big problem in Karen State, and we dont want to blame monks [who participated in the event] as we were able to control the situation. They may have their grievances, said Daw Nan Khin Htwe Myint.

After the rally, Karen State Ma Ba Tha released a statement calling on the government to officially deny self-identifying Rohingya recognition as an ethnicity in Myanmar, and to take prompt actions against Muslim militants in Rakhine.

Many of the self-identifying Rohingya are not allowed citizenship and endure travel restrictions along with a lack of access to education and healthcare.

In a recent interview with BBC, nationalist monks in Mandalay said they supported Daw Aung San Suu Kyis stance on the Rakhine crisis.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.
Burma Rakhine Committee to Visit Maungdaw

A child from Shwe Zar Kap Pakaung village tract, near Maungdaw Town in early September 2017 / Myo Min Soe / The Irrawaddy

YANGON  Ten members of the governments Rakhine State committeeincluding permanent secretaries from eight ministriesbegan a two-day visit to conflict-torn Maungdaw and Buthidaung townships of northern Rakhine on Monday.

After their trip, we will set priorities for implementing recommendations and draw an action plan within two weeks, chair of the governments Implementation Committee for Recommendations on Rakhine State U Win Myat Aye, who is Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, told The Irrawaddy on Monday.

The committee was formed on Sept. 12 to implement the recommendations of the Kofi Annan-led Advisory Commission on Rakhine State and a government investigation commission led by Vice President U Myint Swe and includes 10 permanent secretaries from the ministries of home affairs, information, religious affairs, agriculture, transport, immigration and population, education, health and sport, construction, and social welfare.

U Win Myat Aye said the permanent secretaries from different ministries will review recommendations for their respective ministries based on the situation in northern Rakhine.

The ministry of construction permanent security will be investigating infrastructure and border fencing with Bangladesh, he gave as an example.

Maungdaw remains a conflict zone after attacks on 30 police posts by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army on Aug. 25 which was launched hours after a Kofi Annan-led commission presented long-term solutions to addressing the issues in Rakhine.

According to UN figures, violence has left hundreds dead and over 400,000 Muslims have fled across the border to Bangladesh with reports of significant human rights abuses by government forces. Myanmar government announced about 30,000 Arakanese Buddhists, Hindus and Arakanese sub-ethnic residents also fled violence but nearly 4,300 returned to their homes last week.

Permanent secretary of Ministry of Information U Myo Myint Maung, who is also a member of the implementation committee, said he will not be attending this trip and will send the director-general of the ministry in his stead.
Burma Tatmadaw Representatives in Parliament Call for Govt-Military Cooperation

International Day of Democracy 2017 was observed at Parliament in Naypyitaw on September 15, 2017. / Htet Naing Zaw / The Irrawaddy

NAYPYITAW  Myanmar Army-appointed representatives in Parliament called for cooperation between the military and the government in line with the military-drafted 2008 Constitution at a parliamentary gathering for International Day of Democracy 2017 in Naypyitaw on Friday.

As he submitted the military representatives paper on democratization to Parliament, Lt-Col Moe Kyaw said the National League for Democracy (NLD) government and the Tatmadaw should not be viewed separately and should instead work together.

This will protect democracy so that it can grow. Democratic norms are not the factors that decide the perpetuity of democracy, but the strength and efficiency of institutions, he argued.

Democracy cant be copied. It should fit the history, geography and reality of the host country. Making an exact copy would result in adverse consequences, he added.

In his closing remarks, Lower House speaker U Win Myint preached the merits of mutual tolerance, forgiveness, and fairness for the promotion of democracy.

Dictatorship, which is the opposite of democracy, those who abuse democracy, and those who try to grab power by dishonest means and not through free and fair election, are dangers to democracy, he said.

He also called for the public to help protect peace, stability of the state, national reconciliation and rule of law.

National League for Democracy (NLD) submitted a paper, saying that it is struggling to operate the countrys administrative mechanism within the limits of the 2008 Constitution, and that it is trying to be a corruption-free government.

The biggest challenge doesnt lie in [creating plans for] political reforms, but basically in persuading [bureaucrats] to change their mindset and have a sense of morality, although some dont want to change because of personal interests, said NLD lawmaker of Kalaw Township Daw Pyone Cathy Naing, who submitted the paper.

She touted the Union Peace Conference as the downfall of dictatorship and victory for those wanting federalism.

Centralization is the opposite of democracy, said Lt-Col Moe Kyaw, highlighting criticisms about the centralization of power within the ruling NLD, as well as checks and balances between the NLD-led government and the NLD-dominated Parliament.

Without development, rule of law, and stability, the democratic transition would not be smooth and internal peace cant be achieved, he said.

Various partiesincluding the main opposition Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) and ethnic partiessubmitted papers on the day.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.
Guest Column Marking 70 Years of US-Myanmar Relations

Richard Nixon and his wife Pat Nixon with U Thant, the secretary to the then Myanmar Prime Minister U Nu and who later became the third Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Daw Khin Kyi, Daw Aung San Suu Kyis mother, pictured in Burma in Nov 1953. / US Embassy

Today we commemorate a milestone anniversary in the relations between the United States and Myanmar. It was 70 years ago today, on September 18, 1947, that the US Department of State announced that the governments of Burma and the United States had agreed to exchange representatives with the rank of ambassador. That announcement was made months before Myanmars formal independencemeaning that our formal relations actually began even before the independence of modern Myanmar itself.

Our relationship has been a rich one, and has often been carried out at the highest levels, starting with President Harry S Trumans congratulatory message to President Sao Shwe Thaike when Myanmar declared independence on January 4, 1948. From Vice President Richard Nixon ringing the wishing bell at Shwedagon Pagoda in 1953, to the historic first trip to Myanmar by a US president when President Obama visited in 2012, US leaders have shown that Myanmar matters to America.

At the same time, we know relations have not always been smooth. During the days of Myanmars military regime, they were often strained nearly to the breaking point. But while relations between our governments have varied over time, what has remained constant is our friendship with, and commitment to, all people in Myanmar. We have built a partnership, formalized as the US-Myanmar Partnership in 2016, based on mutual respect and shared values, especially the values of democratic governance, peace, and the opportunity of a better life for all.

When the people of Myanmar freely and clearly chose to live in a democracy in 2015, the United States stood with them and today remains committed to supporting Myanmars democracy and this democratic transition. We have always been, and remain, advocates for prosperity, peace, and national reconciliation in Myanmar. We show that commitment to the people of Myanmar when we send students to the United States on scholarships, help farmers increase their incomes, or bring our Peace Corps volunteers to teach English here, opening up life-changing opportunities for young children. I, like every member of my Embassy team, am proud to be a part of these efforts and this friendship.

An anniversary is a time to reflect, to take stock of our shared history. It is also a time to address the present and look to the future.

We are friends, and friends speak to each other openly and honestly. Today, we mark this anniversary while a humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Rakhine State that must be addressed. The United States has publicly condemned the August 25 attacks against security forces, but we are also deeply troubled by the ongoing violence in Rakhine, where some 400,000 people have fled their homes. We have called for Myanmar security authorities to respect the rule of law, stop the violence, and end the displacement of civilians from all communities. We welcome the governments commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to victims as quickly as possible and encourage them to do so. We also welcome the governments efforts to implement the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State to address the root causes of this conflict and build a better future.

All of this we have done in the spirit of our 70-year-old friendship and our ongoing commitment to the people of Myanmar. We are ready and willing to work together to restore peace, foster tolerance, and help all communities in Rakhine recover from this tragedy. And we stand ready and willing to continue and deepen our friendship with the Myanmar people, for the next 70 years and beyond.
German companies Bosch and Bayer are working to develop smart spraying technology to make the use of pesticides more efficient.

The concept will be presented at the Agritechnica trade fair which is to be held in Hannover from 12 to 18 November.

In a statement, the two companies said the amount of agricultural land per capita continued to lessen with the increase in the world's population.

They cited predictions from the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation that farmers would have to sustainably generate around 50% more yield by 2050 to feed the global population.

In order for this to happen, agriculture would need crop protection and technical innovation, both of which are as environmentally friendly as possible.

Smart spraying sustainably clears fields of weeds. This safeguards yields while protecting the environment, said Dr Markus Heyn, board member of Bosch.

Outlining the way the system would work, the companies said before farmers went out to their fields, a digital field manager helped assess the situation in the field and recommended the best time to treat weeds.

"In one step, weeds are precisely identified and pesticide is sprayed in a single process as the crop sprayer crosses the field. Multiple cameras spread across the entire width of the crop sprayer take a continuous series of pictures, identifying the different weeds and allowing the optimum treatment to be defined," they said.

"While the crop sprayer is still crossing the field, the herbicide is sprayed in the required quantity and mixture using the appropriate application parameters. While the relevant weeds are targeted, weedless areas remain untouched. All this occurs at lightning speed, within milliseconds."

Tobias Menne, head of digital farming at Bayer, said the aim was that herbicides are only used where they were really needed.

"Especially in the early phase of their growth, weeds are hard to identify. Using camera sensors, the new smart spraying technology is able to differentiate between crops and weeds, and uses special application technology to target weeds with pesticides, thus reducing environmental impact."
South Australia is aiming to develop a mining technology services sector that is a global player with the investment of $14.6 million in a research consortium.

The University of Adelaide will lead the group with a contribution of $4.46 million in cash and kind. It will be known as The Research Consortium  Unlocking Complex Resources through Lean Processing.

The South Australian Government will contribute $4 million under the Premiers Research and Industry Fund. The remainder of the money will come from a large range of mining sector and research partners.

The consortium was announced today by South Australia's Science and Information Economy Minister Kyam Maher.

In 2014-2015, copper and copper concentrates exports from South Australia totalled $2 billion, the state's single largest export item.

The SA Government aims to triple copper production to one million tonnes a year by 2030.

There is a large untapped copper resource in the state with total value of known copper resource (with gold as a by-product) at over $800 billion, said Professor Stephen Grano, director of the University of Adelaides Institute for Mineral and Energy Resources.

Prof Grano will be director of the new Consortium.

There is a significant potential to increase the rate of commercial exploitation of these resources which would have major beneficial economic impacts for the state.

"However, there are also significant capital and operating cost hurdles to overcome, due in large part to the geological complexity of the resource.

The Research Consortium will develop advanced technology to tailor the mining and processing options to specific characteristics of the mineral ore in real-time  an approach known as lean processing.

"We will be able to look at copper mining across the whole value chain from the resource in the ground, right through mining and processing, enabling the whole system to be optimised rather than optimising isolated parts.
Xbox fans in Sydney are in for a treat, with Microsoft to hold a one-day event showcasing the Xbox One X, Forza Motorsport 7 and Super Luckys Tale on 24 September from 12pm to 6pm AEST at its flagship Australian store.

At the event, Xbox fans and the community can get hands on with Forza Motorsport 7 and Super Luckys Tale on Xbox One X ahead of their official launch.

As Microsoft notes, the event will be a limited time, one day event and the first hands on for Australian fans with Xbox One X".

For those needing a refresher course, Microsoft is billing the Xbox One X as the worlds most powerful console designed for immersive true 4K gaming, ultimate compatibility, and unrivalled craftsmanship ahead of its launch on 7 November".

To attend the event, you need to register. To do this, you need to check out the Microsoft Store event page via Facebook, here

The event is being held at Microsofts store at Pitt St Mall, 188 Pitt St Sydney.

There are Microsoft areas inside of stores like JB Hi-Fi, but the Microsoft Store is its store filled with PCs, software, Xboxes, presumably still some phones and lots more, as well as having classes and sessions for customers, offering free tech support and more.

If you havent yet been to the Microsoft Store and are either a PC and Windows user, or an Xbox fan, or both, then its definitely worth checking out for yourself.

So, if youre keen to see the Xbox One X down under and be one of the first to do so, as well as checking out those two new games, then youll find registration details here.
Technology known as Cardihab  a method to help improve recovery after a heart attack  developed by the Australian eHealth Research Centre, has been spun off from Australia's national science and technology accelerator programme, known as ON.

The Australian eHealth Research Centre is a joint venture between the CSIRO and the Queensland Government.

Venture capital of $1.35 million was raised for the technology to be commercialised. Of this, $500,000 was from Uniseed, a venture fund operating at the Universities of Melbourne, New South Wales, Sydney, Queensland and CSIRO.

The remaining money came from an unnamed private cardiology group and existing Cardihab shareholder, Artesian Capital.

CSIRO chief executive Larry Marshall said: Establishing ON was about creating a pathway to help our scientists turn their ideas into real-world solutions for the big problems facing Australia now and in the future.

Cardihab exemplifies the combination of public good and economic outcomes that makes ON so unique.

Since completing the ON programme, the Cardihab team have taken their excellent science and translated it into a breakthrough innovation that will save lives, and dollars to the Australian healthcare system.

A CSIRO statement said someone in Australia experienced a heart attack every nine minutes. But less than a third of survivors followed through with cardiac rehabilitation which often led to complications and repeat attacks.

"Heart attack survivors who complete rehabilitation are 40% less likely to experience another attack. Making rehabilitation more convenient for people, Cardihab trials were shown to more than double the completion rates for rehabilitation," the organisation said.

Cardihabs model of care is backed by a randomised control trial conducted by CSIRO and the Metro North Brisbane Health and Hospital Service.

The results of this trial were published in the international journal Heart. The trial demonstrated that although the Cardihab model of care was clinically equivalent to normal care, it significantly improved patient uptake, adherence and completion of cardiac rehabilitation.

Subsequent implementations continued to confirm its efficacy, the CSIRO claimed.

Cardihab chief technology officer Simon McBride said: Cardihab makes cardiac rehabilitation more convenient meaning that clinicians are able to get more patients to complete the programme.

Todays investment gives us the platform on which to build the company and make a difference to the lives of millions of Australians.
Augmented reality apps for iPhone models SE, 6s and up, as well as iPad Pros and the 2017 iPad are about to start flooding the App Store from Wednesday in Australia as iOS 11 launches, with Redbubble popping itself with excitement over its AR shopping art app.

Want to see what products from Redbubble will look like in your home before you buy?

Redbubble bills itself as the leading global marketplace for independent artists, with its Redbubble for iOS app featuring an augmented reality update that brings artwork to life in your home".

Claiming this really is try before you buy, you can, for example, place virtual pillows on couches and chairs as you can see in the images below.

Were told that you can move around them to see how they interact with the lighting, up close to see the texture of the fabric, compare colours and relate the size to surrounding objects".

Naturally, Redbubble thinks consumers will love the future of shopping made possible by its updated, AR capable app, which as noted will be just the first of hundreds, and then thousands, and then tens and even hundreds of thousands of apps to get the capability, finally stretching into the millions of apps as AR becomes the thing every app must have.

Of course, AR isnt just a bubble, nor is it a red one, and nor will AR be applicable or useful for all apps. However, were at the beginning of the AR craze finally starting to take off in a massive way, so the rest of 2017 will see all our realities augmented in dramatic new ways, and 2018 promises even better to come.

So, what are some of the future Redbubble possibilities using AR, being as the company itself proclaims that today is just the start?

Find the perfect fitting T-shirt, colour, style, design for you  see how it looks on you without even leaving your home.

Cover your laptop in stickers, rearrange and adjust in AR, all before you buy.

Decorate your walls virtually using the Redbubble app. Choose from the 11.5 million pieces of artwork from Redbubble. Try the metal prints, canvas, portrait, landscape and more. We can see a future where homeowners are placing wall art from international artists throughout their homes to find the perfect combination of artwork without ever leaving their homes.

And what would an Apple press release the week after unveiling of new iPhones be without new iPhone 8 and X cases?

It should come as no surprise to see Redbubble also announcing the launch of iPhone 8 & X cases, with millions of designs and styles for your latest iPhone to choose from.

The Redbubble app can be downloaded from the App Store.

Finally, if youve never heard of Redbubble, like me, it is a global online marketplacepowered by over 600,000 independent artists, with a community of passionate creatives (that) sell unique designs on 65 high-quality, everyday products such as apparel, stationery, housewares, bags, wall art and more".

Instead of being starving artists, were told that, through the Redbubble marketplace, independent artists are able to profit from their creativity and reach a new universe of adoring fans. For customers, its the ultimate in self expression. A simple but meaningful way to show the world who they are and what they care about".

So, there you go. Redbubble is clearly popping with creativity, and with its new AR app, clearly seeks to scale new heights of success, sales, creativity and an augmented experience unlike any it has been able to deliver before, but which will soon be second nature to us all.

Turn phone horizontal to view full image if viewing on mobile.
Learning how to articulate cybersecurity challenges in a language understood by executives and board members will not only allow them to better understand the business risks but will also help to accelerate your career in defining transformational cyber security programmes in your organisation.

In our previous article, we referenced three stories of modern day Information Security heroes. Information Security teams who provide the first and last line of defence, protecting corporate reputations, customer sensitive data and ultimately, company profits. Here, we dive deeper into these stories to show how each champion has overcome internal challenges to initiate significant and strategic cyber security programmes.

One large Australian organisation we work with is gearing up for the next phase of internal business evolution as well as expanding their business through innovation. A strategic plan was put in place following a successful joint venture. The plan is designed to grow revenues by engaging in Research & Development (R&D) projects. This initiative has changed the risk profile of the organisation - shifting focus to a buildup of unique, valuable R&D information and critical assets, which has become a highly attractive target for local and international hackers.

To address this new potential risk, the CISO attempted several times to obtain a budget to enhance the organisations Information Security. Finally the CISO employed a new tactic, utilising consultative services to produce factual documentation that identified areas of risk with a solid plan of demonstrating how technology, people, and process would close these gaps whilst aligning to their core business objectives.

Several cybersecurity initiatives are now underway reducing identified risk exposure in a measured way, gaining visibility into targeted threats and prioritising activities based on data-driven decision-making. This initiative has given the organisation an opportunity to position themselves more competitively with an aim of winning three times more business and has helped in building a stronger reputation in the marketplace.

Another inspiring character whose path we have crossed is an Information Security veteran in Australia. Through constant sharing of thought leadership insights around cyber risks, this CISO has helped transform a once conservative-thinking board of directors into one that truly understands that cyber threats are the fastest growing risk within its Australian business and that inevitably these risks need to be addressed. With the right mindset established within the organisation, the CISO is now able to take the next step on the journey towards a mature cyber security practice.

It was critical to understand that external forces are always at play  Third platforms facilitate business agility however they can also dramatically increase the attack-surface for businesses. Experienced security analysts are becoming more expensive and hard to find and the volume of attacks on Australian businesses are increasing at an alarming rate. Our hero in this story instinctively understood that purely investing in a defensive strategy was no longer adequate to protect the organisation. Instead, the dedicated security analyst needed an intuitive tool that can create leverage with advanced computer science techniques and can give complete visibility to the business operation and executive teams at the same time.

Working with a trusted partner organisation, this CISO was able to take a strategic and holistic approach to transforming its Information Security approach. Designing and implementing an architecture that delivered visibility to the whole organisation. With its latest Advanced Security Operations Centre set up, the CISO now has the business context needed to prioritise and justify future cybersecurity initiatives. The return on this investment saw a reduction of declared incidents from of 10 to 3 per day as well as significantly reducing time to triage each incident from 2 weeks to 1 day, on average.

Finally, our third local CISO, a well-respected professional - He applies his information security strategies from the NIST framework. Under his guidance, he has now established a small but agile team consisting of two full-time security analysts. One of his strategies was to transform his team from being reactive to becoming an effective and proactive team of cyber threat hunters. By helping to enhance their skill sets, this CISO was able to attract new talent and retain existing staff with an increased level of commitment and dedication.

Having the right tools and procedures helped advance the development of these security analysts and helped multiply the impact of experienced team members. The team was growing together! To the business, this transformation of the security team from being an internal cost center to a profitable business unit has been evident.

With a team that is enabled and working closely with the trusted partner on the same vision  the CISO has succeeded in aligning the business objectives and deploying its Information Security programme that includes people, process and technology.

With the cyber world around us evolving all the time, organisations must learn to adapt to remain competitive. Cyber threats will not stop  so who will be our next Cyber Security hero?

80% expect an increase in cyber risk over the next year or so

34% have clearly defined risk appetite for cyber security

11% are taking proactive approaches to reassure investors/customers about the organisations cyber security

(SOURCE: https://www.asx.com.au/documents/investor-relations/ASX-100-Cyber-Health-Check-Report.pdf )

Great cybersecurity programmes need solid understanding of your organisations risk appetite, an understanding of the desired business outcomes, and a defined way of measuring success. RSA is a long standing trusted partner to thousands of companies and government departments and we can help your organisation successfully achieve your strategic goals, whilst providing positive business outcomes and demonstrating how to get a measurable Return on Investment.

Authors

Simon Perry, Threat Detection and Response Business Manager, RSA

Andrew Bonehill, Threat Detection and Response Snr Technology Consultant, RSA

Download our report Translating security leadership into board value

What Boards Want to Know and CISOs Need to Say.

 Major trends

 5 CISO Secrets to better Board Meetings

 6 ways Boards can step up to Cybersecurity
There is a common misconception that the migration of services to a cloud provider means that businesses hand the keys of responsibility over to their new virtual landlord. However, understanding the threats to your business and what your service partner should be making you aware of has never been more important.

The reality facing organisations of all sizes is a lack of resources or expertise around their increasingly complex cloud or hybrid environment. Naturally, most businesses are turning to their providers for both protection and leadership.

When the WannaCry ransomware virus affected 200,000 organisations in 150 countries, it acted as a wake-up call to those that were guilty of taking security for granted. Any reputable cloud provider should have the agility to react faster than your business by using the latest advancements in technology to be proactive towards security threats rather than reactive.

Armed with superior knowledge and skills, they should be working with you to make your business more efficient. Collaboration is crucial to securing the support your business needs to thrive. Leaders should start looking at their cloud provider as a research and development team too.

The apocalyptic headlines around the WannaCry attack failed to tell the whole story. The reports highlighted how many organisations were neglecting their core responsibilities. For example, regular backups of data that allow you to roll back to the moment before an attack is considered the best protection from ransomware.

Availability

Availability should also never be taken for granted. As we enter a mobile first and always-online digital age, customers have increasingly high, and some might argue unrealistic expectation levels. But, when your business goes offline, don't expect your audience to wait around patiently until service has been restored.

The inconvenient truth is that any downtime will not only hurt sales but will also damage your reputation. Ultimately, the inability to serve your audience can quickly lead to widespread negative publicity about your brand. When a customer begins to associate your business with frequent downtime issues, your name quickly becomes tarnished.

It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, youll do things differently. Warren Buffet

Website monitoring can detect and alert you of any potential issues that could be responsible for taking the site offline. Having a proactive rather than a reactive mindset can dramatically reduce the risks associated with any potential website failures.

After years of living in denial, most leaders now nervously accept that its no longer a matter of if a cybersecurity breach or attack will happen, but when. An effective disaster recovery plan is crucial to ensuring you remain open for business 24/7 when the inevitable occurs.

Security

News of yet another major cyber-attack, hack, leak, or breach seems to bombard our timelines on an almost daily basis. The bad news for businesses is that consumers believe that all organisations should accept responsibility. Meanwhile, they also have very little patience with those that repeatedly make the same security mistakes.

The good news is that the fear around cloud security has diminished considerably in recent years. In fact, cloud security is often much tighter than traditional on-premise IT due to the emphasis providers place on building secure environments.

However, organisations should not take any element of security for granted. Equally, you shouldn't be afraid to ask your cloud provider the right questions. A belt and braces approach to fundamentals such as authentication, backups, encryption and breach alerts is crucial to your cloud setup.

It's important to remember that there is no one size fits all approach when choosing a cloud provider. Any decision must be made on your unique requirements. When you find yourself handling a P1 incident and an offline business, do you know the person that will take your call and how long they have to respond to your crisis?

When the inevitable occurs, how confident are you that all the correct measures are in place to get you back up and running as soon as possible? If there is any element of doubt in your answer, maybe you need to speak with a cloud provider sooner rather than later.

Zettagrid is an Australian owned and operated cloud provider offering a suite of products that help your business to remain protected and secure. SecondSite powered by Zerto is an award-winning disaster recovery solution enabling your business to recover in real-time, reduce the cost of downtime, and minimise interruptions to your operations.

Find out more about SecondSite by visiting our website.
Finance ministers from EU countries have offered cautious support for a plan to draft new tax rules for multinational technology companies like Google and Facebook.

At the same time, the ministers, who met in the Estonian capital Tallinn, said they would prefer a permanent solution that also included the US. according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.

France, Germany, Italy and Spain proposed a plan last week whereby big technology companies would pay taxes based on their revenue, and not profits.

On Friday, five more countries  Austria, Bulgaria, Greece, Slovenia and Latvia  said they supported the proposal. The EU has 28 members.

The EU is looking at measures to get these companies to pay what is deemed to be their fair share of tax. Accusations are rife of profits being routed to low-tax nations like Ireland and Luxembourg.

Aso last week, a Reuters report said Google and Facebook may have paid anything from 5.1 billion (A$7.61 billion) to 5.4 billion less in taxes in European Union states between 2013 and 2015.

The ministers said they had agreed to find better ways to tax online services, though there was as yet no consensus.

Despite some diverging opinions, we eventually came to several common conclusions, Estonian finance minister Toomas Toniste said. Everyone agreed that the problem (of inqadequate taxation) exists.

While the plan to tax revenues attracted the support of more than half the EU members, a majority wanted an agreement that was drafted at the level of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Toniste said the aim was to finalise an agreement by December and then take it to the OECD.

Before that, the European Commission will prepare a number of options for resolving the tax problem and present them at an EU summit on digital issues to be held in Tallinn on 29 September.
In an interview in Frankfurt, Qualcomm chief executive Steve Mollenkopf said real 5G devices could be expected on retail shelves in 2019, at least a year ahead of schedule.

Mollenkopf was quoted by Reuters as stating: You will see it (5G) in real devices, on the shelf, in 2019. And if I were to answer that same question a year ago, I would have said 2020.

He also explained that first mover countries such as the US, South Korea and Japan would be first to see 5G, and while he didnt mention Australia, Telstra is already doing a lot of work with Ericsson, and presumably Qualcomm too, in getting 5G to us down under as quickly as possible.

Mollenkopf has plenty more to say in the article, which you can read here.

However, for more information direct from the source, you can read about the 5G keynote speech Mollenkopf gave at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany, late last week.

Digital Trends also has more on this Qualcomm and other related 5G news here.
Australia's main telecommunications providers appear to be mostly wary of commenting on the security reforms for the industry which were passed by parliament last week.

iTWire contacted the five biggest telcos  Telstra, Optus, TPG, Vocus and Vodafone  to find out their reaction but only two responded with a reaction.

Telstra and TPG did not reply, while Vocus said its authorised spokesperson, chief executive Geoff Horth, was in meetings the whole of Friday.

Presumably, Horth was occupied with weightier matters like the proposed shareholder class action against Vocus for allegedly misleading investors.

The reforms mean that telcos will now be forced to tell the government about changes to systems and services that could make them more vulnerable to security risks.

The legislation will be reviewed in three years.

Australia's second largest telco Optus said the company supported proposals aimed at improving security in the sector and government initiatives that furthered the same objective.

"We will be working through the logistics of the reforms with government over the implementation period," the spokesperson added.

A Vodafone spokesperson said the company took security very seriously.

"We already have stringent systems, processes and policies in place to safeguard our network, and are working closely withgovernment and industry to counter continually-evolving threats. We will continue to comply with all our legal obligations," the spokesperson added.

The reactions contrast somewhat sharply with the chorus of apprehension expressed by industry lobby groups in February.

At that time, the Australian Industry Group, the Australian Information Industry Association, the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association and Communications Alliance sent a joint submission to the committee looking at the bill, expressing numerous concerns.

The joint submission stated that some of the issues were vague drafting, regulatory overreach, the risk that telecommunications service providers could be forced by government to dismantle or retro-fit existing communications networks and the risk that innovation would be hampered and competitively disadvantage businesses.

The bipartisan Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security made numerous recommendations on 30 June, all of which were accepted by the government.
Google will strangle most auto-playing audio in early 2018 when it issues Chrome 64, the upgrade expected to ship Jan. 21-27, the search giant promised last week.

"Chrome will be making auto-play more consistent with user expectations and will give users more control over audio," wrote Mounir Lamouri, a Chrome software engineer, in a post to a company blog.

With Chrome 64, auto-play contents - often, but not always, advertisements - will not be allowed to run automatically unless it mutes the audio. There will be some exceptions, including a very large one: If the user has clicked or tapped (desktop Chrome or mobile Chrome, respectively), "somewhere on the site during the browsing session," the audio may play.

[ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ]

That exclusion means that auto-play audio won't sound as soon as the user reaches a site -- the biggest complaint about the practice -- but the content could later begin running its video and echoing its audio.

Before year's end, with the launch of Chrome 63 - currently slated for release December 3-9) - Google will take a preliminary step by providing a site-specific muting option from the Page Info bubble (called up by clicking on the "i" within a circle at the far left of the URL in the address bar).

Google has gagged Chrome before. Two years ago, for example, the company announced that auto-play audio would be muted on all background tabs.

Other browser makers have similar ideas. Apple, for instance, will introduce per-site and web-wide controls over auto-play in Safari 11, the browser set to ship with macOS High Sierra on Sept. 25.
Reddit Email 26 Shares

Maan News Agency |  

BETHLEHEM (Maan)  Hamas, the de facto ruling party of the Gaza Strip, has pledged to dissolve its administrative committee that runs the besieged coastal enclave and expressed readiness to hold general elections, in a bid for reconciliation with the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority (PA).

A statement from Hamas movement said the decision came in response to recent diplomatic efforts by Egypt to reconcile the rival factions, while PA President Mahmoud Abbas has been calling on Hamas to end the administrative committee, relinquish control of the small territory to the PA, and hold presidential and legislative elections.

Hamas and the Fatah-led PA have been embroiled in a more than a decade-long conflict since 2006, when Hamas won Palestinian legislative elections and a bloody conflict between the two groups broke out.

Despite numerous attempts at reconciling the groups, Palestinian leadership has repeatedly failed to follow through on promises of reconciliation and holding of long-overdue elections, as both movements have frequently blamed each other for numerous political failures.

The Hamas movement said Sunday it has dissolved its administrative committee  formed earlier this year to the outrage of the PA, agrees to hold general elections for the first time since 2006, enter talks with Fatah, and allow the national reconciliation government to operate in Gaza.

Hamas signed the reconciliation agreement with the PLO in April 2014, which was to pave the way for a general election by the end of 2014. However, a devastating 50-day Israeli attack on Gaza that year, as well as a dispute over payment of the salaries of tens of thousands of Hamas security forces, first blocked progress on the deal towards reconciliation.

The Palestinian political crisis has since only continued to worsen, and Hamas said it formed the committee after the consensus government failed to take responsibility for Gazas administration. The PA alleges that Hamas is attempting to form a shadow government to run Gaza independent of the West Bank.

In recent months, the PA has been also been accused of deliberately sending the impoverished Gaza Strip further into a humanitarian catastrophe  by slashing funding for Israeli fuel, medicine, and salaries for civil servants and former prisoners  in order to wrest control of the territory from Hamas.

Last month, Abbas threatened to undertake further repressive measures against the impoverished territory should Hamas not unconditionally abide by the PAs demands to end the administrative committee, relinquish control of the enclave to the PA, and hold presidential and legislative elections.

Following Hamas acceptance of these key conditions on Sunday, senior Fatah official Mahmoud Aloul told Reuters news agency that he welcomed cautiously Hamass position. If this is Hamas statement, then this is a positive sign, he reportedly said. We in Fatah movement are ready to implement reconciliation.

Fatah Central Committee member Azzam al-Ahmed also welcomed Hamas decision to dissolve the administrative committee, he told PA-owned Wafa news agency.

Al-Ahmed, who is currently in Cairo for Egyptian-led reconciliation talks with Hamas, told Wafa that a lengthy meeting was held between the Fatah delegation in Cairo with the head of the Egyptian intelligence service, Minister Khaled Fawzi, in which they reviewed the continuous efforts exerted by Egypt to end the Palestinian internal split.

Al-Hamad confirmed reports that the Fatah delegation met with the Hamas leadership, and hailed Hamass call for the unity government to resume its normal work in Gaza as well as its approval to hold presidential and legislative elections, according to Wafas report.

The Fatah official also said that there will be a bilateral meeting between Fatah and Hamas officials followed by a meeting of all the Palestinian factions that signed the May 2011 reconciliation agreement in order to begin practical steps to implement the deal, and expressed hope that the coming days would witness tangible practical steps, Wafa said.

Nickolay Mladenov, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, also released a statement welcoming Hamas announcement. I welcome the recent statement by Hamas announcing the dissolving of the Administrative Committee in Gaza and agreement to allow the Government of National Consensus to assume its responsibilities in Gaza, he said.

I commend the Egyptian authorities for their tireless efforts in creating this positive momentum. All parties must seize this opportunity to restore unity and open a new page for the Palestinian people, the UN envoy continued. The United Nations stands ready to assist all efforts in this respect. It is critical that the grave humanitarian situation in Gaza, most notably the crippling electricity crisis, be addressed as a priority.

The development also came after head of the Hamas movements politburo Ismail Haniyeh and other high-ranking Hamas members met with Egyptian intelligence officials in Cairo last week, with talks focusing on a readiness to work toward national unity.

Hamas leadership told the Egyptians they would allow the Palestinian national reconciliation government to take charge of Gaza and carry out elections, so long as all Palestinian factions hold a conference in Cairo afterwards to elect a national government responsible for the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.

An Egyptian source close to the intelligence services told Israeli news daily Haaretz that Hamas is trying to prove to Egypt that it is not obstructing reconciliation and is responding to demands, hoping to reap the benefits if and when the talks falter on the PAs part.

Hamas has sought to improve relations with Cairo in recent months by increasing cross border security, including the construction of the military buffer zone, in hopes that Egypt will ease its enforcement of Israels brutal, decade-long siege of the territory and open up the Rafah border crossing.

A Fatah delegation sent by Abbas to Cairo also discussed Egypts efforts to reconcile the Palestinians on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Abbas arrived in New York on Sunday to take part in the proceedings of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. He is to meet US President Donald Trump there on Wednesday, ahead of the Palestinian presidents speech at the UN Thursday.

Via Maan News Agency |  

-

Related video added by Juan Cole:

Euronews: Hamas ready to work with Palestinian authority in Gaza
Reddit Email 557 Shares

By Michael T. Klare | ( Tomdispatch.com) |  

Deployed to the Houston area to assist in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, U.S. military forces hadnt even completed their assignments when they were hurriedly dispatched to Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to face Irma, the fiercest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean. Florida Governor Rick Scott, who had sent members of the state National Guard to devastated Houston, anxiously recalled them while putting in place emergency measures for his own state. A small flotilla of naval vessels, originally sent to waters off Texas, was similarly redirected to the Caribbean, while specialized combat units drawn from as far afield as Colorado, Illinois, and Rhode Island were rushed to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, members of the California National Guard were being mobilized to fight wildfires raging across that state (as across much of the West) during its hottest summer on record.

Think of this as the new face of homeland security: containing the damage to Americas seacoasts, forests, and other vulnerable areas caused by extreme weather events made all the more frequent and destructive thanks to climate change. This is a war that wont have a name  not yet, not in the Trump era, but it will be no less real for that. The firepower of the federal government was being trained on Harvey, as William Brock Long, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), put it in a blunt expression of this warlike approach. But dont expect any of the military officials involved in such efforts to identify climate change as the source of their new strategic orientation, not while Commander in Chief Donald Trump sits in the Oval Office refusing to acknowledge the reality of global warming or its role in heightening the intensity of major storms; not while he continues to stock his administration, top to bottom, with climate-change deniers.

Until Trump moved into the White House, however, senior military officers in the Pentagon were speaking openly of the threats posed to American security by climate change and how that phenomenon might alter the very nature of their work. Though mums the word today, since the early years of this century military officials have regularly focused on and discussed such matters, issuing striking warnings about an impending increase in extreme weather events  hurricanes, incessant rainfalls, protracted heat waves, and droughts  and ways in which that would mean an ever-expanding domestic role for the military in both disaster response and planning for an extreme future.

That future, of course, is now. Like other well-informed people, senior military officials are perfectly aware that its difficult to attribute any given storm, Harvey and Irma included, to human-caused climate change with 100% confidence. But they also know that hurricanes draw their fierce energy from the heat of tropical waters, and that global warming is raising the temperatures of those waters. Its making storms like Harvey and Irma, when they do occur, ever more powerful and destructive. As greenhouse gas emissions increase, sea levels are rising, average global temperatures increasing, and severe weather patterns are accelerating, the Department of Defense (DoD) bluntly explained in the Quadrennial Defense Review, a 2014 synopsis of defense policy. This, it added, may increase the frequency, scale, and complexity of future missions, including defense support to civil authorities  just the sort of crisis weve been witnessing over these last weeks.

As this statement suggests, any increase in climate-related extreme events striking U.S. territory will inevitably lead to a commensurate rise in American military support for civilian agencies, diverting key assets  troops and equipment  from elsewhere. While the Pentagon can certainly devote substantial capabilities to a small number of short-term emergencies, the multiplication and prolongation of such events, now clearly beginning to occur, will require a substantial commitment of forces, which, in time, will mean a major reorientation of U.S. security policy for the climate change era. This may not be something the White House is prepared to do today, but it may soon find itself with little choice, especially since it seems so intent on crippling all civilian governmental efforts related to climate change.

Mobilizing for Harvey and Irma

When it came to emergency operations in Texas and Florida, the media understandably put its spotlight on moving tales of rescue efforts by ordinary folks. As a result, the militarys role in these operations was easy to miss, but it took place on a massive scale. Every branch of the armed services  the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard  deployed significant contingents to the Houston area, in some cases sending along the sort of specialized equipment normally used in major combat operations. The combined response represented an extraordinary commitment of military assets to that desperate, massively flooded region: tens of thousands of National Guard and active-duty troops, thousands of Humvees and other military vehicles, hundreds of helicopters, dozens of cargo planes, and an assortment of naval vessels. And just as operations in Texas began to wind down, the Pentagon commenced a similarly vast mobilization for Hurricane Irma.

The militarys response to Harvey began with front-line troops: the National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, and units of the U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), the joint-service force responsible for homeland defense. Texas Governor Greg Abbott mobilized the entire Texas National Guard, about 10,000 strong, and guard contingents were deployed from other states as well. The Texas Guard came equipped with its own complement of helicopters, Humvees, and other all-terrain vehicles; the Coast Guard supplied 46 helicopters and dozens of shallow-water vessels, while USNORTHCOM provided 87 helicopters, four C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft, and 100 high-water vehicles.

Still more aircraft were provided by the Air Force, including seven C-17 cargo planes and, in a highly unusual move, an E-3A Sentry airborne warning and control system, or AWACS. This super-sophisticated aircraft was originally designed to oversee air combat operations in Europe in the event of an all-out war with the Soviet Union. Instead, this particular AWACS conducted air traffic control and surveillance around Houston, gathering data on flooded areas, and providing situational awareness to military units involved in the relief operation.

For its part, the Navy deployed two major surface vessels, the USS Kearsarge, an amphibious assault ship, and the USS Oak Hill, a dock landing ship. These ships, the Navy reported, are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, [and] medium and heavy lift air support. Accompanying them were several hundred Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, along with their amphibious assault vehicles and a dozen or so helicopters and MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.

When Irma struck, the Pentagon ordered a similar mobilization of troops and equipment. The Kearsarge and the Oak Hill, with their embarked Marines and helicopters, were redirected from Houston to waters off Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. At the same time, the Navy dispatched a much larger flotilla, including the USS Abraham Lincoln (the aircraft carrier on which President George W. Bush had his infamous mission accomplished moment), the missile destroyer USS Farragut, the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima, and the amphibious transport dock USS New York. Instead of its usual complement of fighter jets, the Abraham Lincoln set sail from its base in Norfolk, Virginia, with heavy-lift helicopters; the Iwo Jima and New York also carried a range of helicopters for relief operations. Another amphibious vessel, the USS Wasp, was already off the Virgin Islands, providing supplies and evacuating those in need of emergency medical care.

This represents the sort of mobilization you would expect for a small war and is characteristic of how, in the past, the U.S. military has responded to major domestic disasters like hurricanes Katrina (2003) and Sandy (2012). Such events were once rarities and so werent viewed as major impediments to the carrying out of the militarys normal function: fighting the nations foreign wars. However, thanks to the way climate change is intensifying the weather, disasters of this magnitude are starting to occur more frequently and on an ever-larger scale. As a result, the previously peripheral mission of disaster relief is threatening to become a primary one for an already overstretched Pentagon and, as top military officials are aware, the future only holds promise of far more of the same. Think of this as the new face of war, American-style.

Redefining Homeland Security

Even if no one else in Donald Trumps Washington is ready or willing to deal with climate change, the U.S. military will be. Its already long been preparing in its own fashion to take a pivotal role in responding to a world of recurring natural disasters. This, in turn, will mean that in the coming years climate change will increasingly dominate the domestic national security agenda (whether the Trump administration and those that follow like it, or even admit it) and such domestic emergencies will undoubtedly be militarized. In the process, the very concept of homeland security is destined to change.

When the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was established in November 2002 in the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks, its principal missions included preventing further terrorist assaults on the country as well as dealing with drug smuggling, illegal immigration, and other similar issues. Climate change never entered the equation. Even though FEMA and the Coast Guard, major components of the DHS, have found themselves dealing with its increasingly disastrous effects, the departments focus on immigration and terrorism has only intensified in the Trump era. The president has ensured that this myopic outlook would reign supreme by, among other things, calling for a sharp increase in the number of Border Patrol agents (and greater infusions of funding for border control issues), while working to slash the Coast Guards budget.

He has also, of course, ensured that all parts of the government other than the military that might in any way deal with climate change were staffed and run by climate-change deniers. Only at the Department of Defense do senior officials still describe climate change in a more realistic fashion, as an observable reality that will pose new dangers to Americas security and create new operational nightmares.

Speaking as a soldier, said former Army Chief of Staff General Gordon Sullivan back in 2007, we never have 100 percent certainty. If you wait until you have 100 percent certainty, something bad is going to happen on the battlefield. The same, he continued, was true regarding climate change. If we keep on with business as usual, we will reach a point where some of the worst effects are inevitable.

General Gordons comments were incorporated into a highly influential report that year on National Security and the Threat of Climate Change, released by the CNA Corporation (formerly the Center for Naval Analyses), a federally-funded research center that aids the Navy and Marine Corps. That report focused with particular concern on the risk of an increase in overseas conflicts from the impact of climate change, particularly if prolonged droughts and growing food scarcity inflame existing ethnic and religious schisms in a range of poor countries (mainly in Africa and the Greater Middle East). The U.S. may be drawn more frequently into these situations, either alone or with allies, to help provide stability before conditions worsen and are exploited by extremists, the report warned.

The same climate effects that could trigger a more embattled world would also, military analysts came to believe, produce increased risk for the United States itself and so generate a greater need for Pentagon involvement at home. Extreme weather events and natural disasters, as the U.S. experienced with Hurricane Katrina, may lead to increased missions for a number of U.S. agencies, including state and local governments, the Department of Homeland Security, and our already stretched military, that CNA report noted a decade ago. In a prescient comment, it also warned that this could lead to clashing strategic priorities. If the frequency of natural disasters increases with climate change, future military and political leaders may face hard choices about where and when to engage.

With this in mind, a group of officers  active duty as well as retired  endeavored to persuade top officials to make climate change a central focus of strategic planning. (Their collective efforts can be sampled at the website maintained by the Center for Climate and Security, an advocacy group former officers established to promote awareness of the issue.) These efforts achieved a major breakthrough in 2014, when the Pentagon released a Climate Change Adaptation Roadmap, a blueprint for Pentagon-wide remedial action in a warming world. Such an effort was needed, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel explained in his foreword, because climate change was sure to generate more conflict abroad and more emergencies at home. The military could be called upon more often to support civil authorities, and provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the face of more frequent and more intense natural disasters. As a consequence, the DoD and its component organizations must begin integrating climate change considerations into our plans, operations, and training.

For a time, the armed forces embraced Hagels instructions, taking steps to reduce their carbon emissions and better prepare for just such a future. The various regional combatant commands like NORTHCOM and the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which covers Latin America and the Caribbean, responded with increased training and other preparations for extreme storm events and for sea-level rise in their areas of responsibility, a change reflected in a 2015 DoD report to Congress, National Security Implications of Climate-Related Risks and a Changing Climate.

In the past, such efforts, only beginning, were never allowed to distract the services from their main presumed function: contesting Americas foreign adversaries. Now, as with Harvey and Irma, the militarys domestic responsibilities are on the rise just as the president is assigning them yet more (or more intensified) missions in the never-ending war on terror, including a stepped-up presence in Afghanistan as well as in Iraq and Syria, more intense air campaigns across the Greater Middle East, and a heightened pace of military maneuvers near North Korea. As shown by a series of deadly collisions involving Navy vessels in the Pacific, this higher tempo of operations has already stretched the military to or even beyond its limits in various conflicts it has proven incapable either of winning or ending. The result: overworked crews and overstretched resources. With the massive response to Harvey and Irma, it is being pushed yet further.

In short, as the planet continues to heat up, the armed forces and the nation at large face an existential crisis. On the one hand, President Trump and his generals, including Secretary of Defense Mattis, are once again fully focused on the increased use of military force (and the threat of more of the same) abroad. This includes not only the wars against the Taliban, ISIS, al-Qaeda, and their numerous spin-offs, but also preparations for possible military strikes on North Korea and perhaps even, at some future date, on Chinese installations in the South China Sea.

As global warming intensifies, instability and chaos, including massive flows of refugees, will only grow, undoubtedly inviting yet more military interventions abroad. Meanwhile, climate change will increase chaos and devastation at home and there, too, it seems that Washington will often see the military as Americas sole reliable response mechanism. As a result, decisions will have to be made about ending American conflicts abroad and refocusing domestically or that overstretched military will simply swallow even more of the governments dollars and gain yet more power in Washington. And yet, whatever else the armed forces might (or might not) be capable of, they are not capable of defeating climate change, which, at its essence, is anything but a military problem. While there are potential solutions to it, those, too, are in no way military.

Despite their reluctance to speak publicly about such environmental matters right now, top officials in the Pentagon are painfully aware of the problem at hand. They know that global warming, as it progresses, will generate new challenges at home and abroad, potentially stretching their capabilities to the breaking point and leaving this country ever more exposed to the ravages of climate change without offering any solutions to the problem. As a result, the generals face a fundamental choice. They can continue to self-censor their sophisticated analysis of climate change and its likely effects, and so remain complicit with the administrations headlong rush into national catastrophe, or they can speak out forcefully on its threat to homeland security, and the resulting need for a new, largely non-military strategic posture that puts climate action at the top of the nations priorities.

Michael T. Klare, a TomDispatch regular, is a professor of peace and world security studies at Hampshire College and the author of 14 books including, most recently, The Race for Whats Left. He is currently completing work on a new book, All Hell Breaking Loose, on climate change and American national security.

Follow TomDispatch on Twitter and join us on Facebook. Check out the newest Dispatch Book, Alfred McCoys In the Shadows of the American Century: The Rise and Decline of U.S. Global Power as well as John Dowers The Violent American Century: War and Terror Since World War II, 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 Michael Klare

Via Tomdispatch.com

-

Related video added by Juan Cole:

Center for Climate and Security: The National Security Implications of Climate Change (June 2017)
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bluestone Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE:BSR) ("Bluestone" or the "Company") today announced its Board of Directors has approved the commencement of the Feasibility Study (the "Feasibility Study") on the Company's Cerro Blanco Project located in Guatemala.

Earlier this year, in conjunction with the acquisition of the project from Goldcorp, the Company released a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) on Cerro Blanco that indicated a robust project generating an after tax internal rate of return of 43.9% and an NPV of US$317 million using US$1,250 per ounce of gold.

Following the positive findings from the PEA, Bluestones Board of Directors has elected to advance directly to a Feasibility Study that is expected to be completed by the end of 2018. The Feasibility Study will be led by JDS Energy & Mining Inc. ("JDS") and contributed to by Hatch Ltd., Kirkham Geosystems Ltd., Knight Piesold Ltd. and Stantec Inc.

Appointment of Technical Advisor

The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of A.L (Alf) Hills as a Technical Advisor to assist the Company with oversight on the Feasibility Study. Alf will lead the Technical Advisory Committee that will be established over the coming months to assist Bluestone management throughout the feasibility study process in evaluation and review of key aspects of the program.

Mr. Hills is registered as a Professional Engineer in the Province of British Columbia and holds a degree in Mining and Mineral Process Engineering with over 40 years of international mine evaluation, development, start-up operating, general management and board experience. Mr. Hills spent 26 years of his career with Placer Dome Inc, where he held a number of positions including Vice President Evaluations, Mine General Manager at Placers Australian Kidston Gold Mine and in Papua New Guinea in various construction, start-up and operating positions. Mr. Hills also participated in developing the CIM Best Practice guidelines for Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimation and was a corporate member of the SME Resources and Reserve Committee.

Darren Klinck, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are pleased to be launching the Cerro Blanco feasibility study which is an important next step as we further evaluate the opportunities for this high-grade, small footprint underground gold project. Mr. Klinck also added, We are very fortunate to have someone with the depth of global experience that Alf Hills has to join Bluestone in an advisory capacity. Alf will play an important role as we establish the Technical Advisory Committee and work closely with Bluestone and JDS as the study advances.

About Bluestone Resources

Bluestone Resources is a mineral exploration and development company that is focused on advancing its 100% owned Cerro Blanco gold and Mita geothermal projects located in Guatemala. The Cerro Blanco Project economics, as disclosed in the Company's Cerro Blanco Preliminary Economic Assessment which is available at www.sedar.com, and updated mineral resource estimate for Cerro Blanco indicates a robust project with an expected nine-year mine life producing 952,000 ounces of gold and 3,141,000 ounces of silver. Initial capital expenditures estimated in the PEA to fund construction and commissioning is estimated at US$170.8 million with All-in sustaining cash costs (as defined per World Gold Council guidelines, less corporate general and administration costs) estimated to be US$490 per ounce of gold produced. The Company trades under the symbol BSR on the TSX Venture Exchange.
VANCOUVER, Sept. 18, 2017 /CNW/ - Bear Creek Mining Corporation (TSX Venture: BCM) ("Bear Creek" or the "Company") announces that the Tribunal hearing the Company's Santa Ana ICSID arbitration claim (the "Arbitration") has officially closed proceedings in the case. As such, no further testimony or exhibits will be submitted to the Tribunal by either the Company or the Republic of Peru and according to ICSID Arbitration Rules, the Tribunal now has 120 days in which to issue the final award.

"We are extremely pleased to know that the Tribunal will be in a position to issue its award in our Santa Ana Arbitration now that it has closed the proceedings," states Andrew Swarthout, President and CEO of the Company. "It has been a long and arduous process of negotiation and legal action to recover damages suffered by Bear Creek and its shareholders when the government of Peru issued Supreme Decree 032 in June 2011, extinguishing our investment in the Santa Ana Project. We maintain that Peru's actions constituted an unlawful expropriation, were unfair and unjustified, and not only damaged the Company but also the communities in the Santa Ana area by denying them significant opportunities that the development of this project would have brought. We and our legal counsel remain confident in the merits of our case and we look forward to the outcome of the Arbitration in the next few months."

Information related to the Arbitration, including procedural orders, written submissions and details regarding the hearings, is available to the public at https://icsid.worldbank.org/en/Pages/cases/casedetail.aspx?CaseNo=ARB/14/21 and a comprehensive summary of the history of the Santa Ana dispute is provided in the Company's Annual Information Form dated April 19, 2017 (available at https://bearcreekmining.com/investors/annual-information-form/.
Gran Colombia Gold Announces Multiple High Grade Drill Results From Its 2017 Infill Drilling Program at Its Providencia Mine in Segovia

TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gran Colombia Gold Corp. (TSX:GCM) announced today the assay results from the ongoing 2017 diamond infill drilling program at its Providencia underground gold mine at its Segovia Operations.

Infill drilling at Providencia was aimed to further delineate one of the main high-grade orebodies on which sparse previous surface drilling had intersected high gold grades. Multiple high gold grades generated from 19 drill holes (1,119 metres) drilled from underground in the 2017 drilling program were intersected on the main vein system with maximum grades of 649.1 g/t Au over 0.39 metres and 249.3g/t Ag over 0.95 metres.

Serafino Iacono, Executive Co-Chairman of Gran Colombia, commented: "We are pleased to report that the assay results returned from the ongoing Providencia infill drilling program represent some of the highest grades seen at Providencia so far, which further increases our confidence in the potential for adding new resources to the mine and extending its mine life. The underground mine at Providencia is one of the highest-grade mines in Colombia and it continues to contribute to our production growth and free cash flow generation from our Segovia Operations."

Segovia Drilling Highlights and Key Intercepts

Drilling results from the Providencia mine confirm the previously modelled high-grade nature, strong down-plunge continuity of gold mineralization and the thickness of one of the main orebodies currently in production on Level 14.

This orebody remains open at depth and we believe it offers the potential for additional resource growth.

The high-grade gold mineralized intercepts associated to this main orebody confirm the higher grade mineralization at depth, which could have a positive impact on the increase of the mining production at Providencia.

The Providencia drill program continues to increase the confidence in the geological model of the orebodies through increased drill density.

The drilling program focused on providing increased definition and confidence in the near-term mine operation and includes the following key intercepts:

Hole From (m) To (m) Width (m) Vein Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Providencia Mine PV-IU-050* 40.31 41.01 0.70 Providencia 18.94 35.1 PV-IU-053* 34.72 36.42 1.70 Providencia 62.22 63.5 PV-IU-054* 29.05 32.81 3.76 Providencia 290.50 142.0 PV-IU-057* 65.15 67.39 2.74 Providencia 131.39 79.6 PV-IU-058* 36.10 38.60 2.50 Providencia 248.87 166.4 PV-IU-059* 28.94 29.77 0.83 Providencia 324.15 170.3 PV-IU-060* 30.25 30.61 0.36 Providencia 191.29 64.1 PV-IU-062* 34.81 37.04 2.56 Providencia 210.94 75.2 PV-IU-063* 50.00 54.40 4.40 Providencia 31.36 15.5 including 51.09 53.60 2.51 51.43 25.6 PV-IU-066* 38.80 42.57 3.77 HW Providencia 9.13 13.8 including 42.20 42.57 0.37 61.93 97.8 PV-IU-066* 46.64 48.05 1.41 Providencia 40.83 16.2 PV-IU-067* 57.45 58.35 0.90 Providencia 34.10 23.5 PV-IU-068* 48.00 53.60 5.60 Providencia 11.69 5.4 including 48.00 50.00 2.00 21.72 10.4 PV-IU-071* 42.80 45.60 2.80 HW Providencia 10.96 6.5 PV-IU-071* 52.30 52.58 0.28 HW Providencia 14.22 11.4 PV-IU-071* 54.67 57.50 2.83 Providencia 44.22 38.7 including 56.60 57.50 0.90 131.30 116.6

* Denotes underground drill holes. The underground holes were drilled at 16 to -84 degrees from the horizontal, and the intersection lengths do not represent true widths. Sample grades over 8.0 g/t Au reported. Grades are for quartz vein intersections and are length-weighted composites. The length is the sample length and is not necessarily the true width of the vein. All gold and silver grades are uncut and are not diluted to a minimum mining width. Abbreviations: HW: hanging wall vein.

Please refer to Attachment 1 and 2 to this press release for illustrative maps related to the Providencia in-fill drilling program, copies of which are also available on the Company's website at www.grancolombiagold.com.

Qualified Person

Dr. Stewart D. Redwood, PhD, FIMMM, Senior Consulting Geologist to the Company, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure or Mineral Projects and prepared or reviewed the preparation of the scientific and technical information in this press release in respect of the drilling results from the Marmato Project. Dr. Redwood verified the data disclosed in this news release, including the sampling, analytical and test data underlying the information contained in this news release. Verification included a review of the quality assurance and quality control samples, and review of the applicable assay databases and assay certificates.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

The samples were prepared and assayed by SGS Laboratories Ltd (ISO 9001:2008) at their laboratory in Medellin, Colombia. Gold was assayed by fire assay with atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) finish. Samples over 10 g/t gold were re-assayed by fire assay with gravimetric finish. Silver was assayed by aqua regia digestion and AAS finish. Blank, standard and duplicate samples were routinely inserted for quality assurance and quality control.

About Gran Colombia Gold Corp.

Gran Colombia is a Canadian-based gold and silver exploration, development and production company with its primary focus in Colombia. Gran Colombia is currently the largest underground gold and silver producer in Colombia with several underground mines in operation at its Segovia and Marmato Operations. Gran Colombia is in the midst of an expansion and modernization project at its Segovia Operations.
Vancouver, BC / TheNewswire / September 18th, 2017 - Montan Mining Corp. (TSXv: MNY | FSE: S5GM | SSE: MNYC) ("Montan" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has arranged an extension of its Term Sheet with Pacific Alliance Capital Group Ltd. ("Pacific Alliance") for the purchase, by Montan, of the Peruvian companies Kairos Capital Peru S.A.C ("Kairos") and M&S Transportes y Servicios Generales S.R.L ("Mirador") from Pacific Alliance (please refer to the News Release of February 16th, 2017). The extension is granted until December 30th, 2017 to facilitate completion of the transaction closing requirements. The key assets ("Pacific Alliance Assets") held by the companies under acquisition include the 100% owned 125 tonnes per day ("TPD") Mirador Processing Plant located in Chimbote, Peru and six (6) 100% owned mineral concessions.

Corporate Strategy Update: Over the last two quarters the Company has been in negotiatons with different groups regarding potential transactions which could secure a traditional precious metals mining asset for the company in Peru. The company believes that general investor interest for a dedicated precious metals and base metals milling operations is limited owing to the inherent risk arising from the reliance on third party supply of mineral feed. The absence of a flagship Company-owned or propriertary mineral supply has caused previously arranged or discussed financing alternatives to be very punitive in terms of cost of capital and terms. The company will announce further updates on its new, expanded corporate strategy as transaction details are advanced and can be made available to the public.

Promissory Note Financing: The Company is pleased to announce that it has entered into promissory notes ("Notes") for principal of $205,000. The proceeds of the Notes will be used for general working capital purposes.

The Notes are due 12 months from the date of closing and bear interest at a rate between 2.0% and 6.0% per annum, payable at maturity.

Participants in the Notes included Premier Silver Corp., a private BC company with mining assets in Peru, Water Street Assets Inc. and Luis F. Zapata, Executive Chairman of Montan Mining.

The Company also wishes to announce that it has received the resignation of Mr. Sam Wong from the Board of Directors in order for Sam to focus on his other business ventures. The company thanks Mr. Wong for his invaluable service and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

About Montan Mining Corp.

Montan Mining Corp. is an emerging gold producer focusing on monetizing mining assets in Peru. The company is backed by an experienced management team with diverse technical, market, and finance expertise and is supported by committed and sophisticated investors focused on building long term value for shareholders.
TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - September 18, 2017) - Continental Gold Inc. (TSX: CNL) ( OTCQX : CGOOF)("Continental" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the first results from its 2017 exploration drilling program at its 100%-owned Buritica project in Antioquia, Colombia. As a result of the early encouraging results, the Company is increasing its drill program for calendar 2017 from 15,000 to 25,000 metres and will increase from three to eight drill rigs by early November 2017. The focus of the program is to both increase and upgrade mineral resources to higher classification categories by testing for high-grade and broad mineralized zones within both the mineral reserve and mineral resource envelopes as well as high-impact targets along strike of existing mineral resources and grassroots targets proximal to existing and proposed infrastructure.

Highlights (referenced in Figures 2, 3 and 4)

29.6 metres @ 14.33 g/t gold and 20 g/t silver (BUUY330)

45.6 metres @ 17.67 g/t gold and 16 g/t silver (BUUY331)

34.05 metres @ 10.54 g/t gold and 4.9 g/t silver (BUUY335)

33.9 metres @ 17.17 g/t gold and 25.6 g/t silver (BUUY336)

Broad Mineralized Zone ("BMZ")

The BMZ consists of a group of modelled precious metal-bearing veins in the mineral resource estimate with significant mineralization occurring between these veins, generally in the form of veinlets at oblique angles to strike. The majority of the mineralization between modelled veins is not in the current mineral resource estimate, providing potential upside both in terms of identifying significantly broader and more productive zones for mining and increased mineral resources. To date, the Company has modelled six BMZ targets for testing, each of which has potential to be 500 metres or more in vertical length.

The first BMZ target in the Yaragua deposit (Figure 1, See target #1), discovered in 2016 through a series of true horizontal width cross-cuts covering 20 vertical metres, has been extended an additional 80 vertical metres (100 metres total) by drilling. The BMZ averages approximately 30 metres true horizontal width and 30 metres lateral strike and remains wide open at depth along strike to both the east and west and down-plunge. A composite weighted average of all drill holes intersecting the BMZ is as follows:

35.8 metres @ 9.98 g/t gold and 14 g/t silver

Two drill holes, which extended the vertical dimension of the BMZ to 100 metres by encountering the deepest BMZ mineralization to date at an elevation of 1,465 RL, intersected robust gold grades and widths as follows:

29.6 metres @ 14.3 g/t gold and 20 g/t silver (BUUY330)

45.6 metres @ 17.67 g/t gold and 16 g/t silver (BUUY331)

The Company plans to construct a new drilling chamber in the near future at a lower level to target the continuation of this BMZ to deeper elevations upon further advancement of commercial underground development at the Yaragua deposit.

BUUY333 was drilled outside the BMZ to the east, defining the eastern limit of this zone at an elevation of approximately 1,500 RL. However, the drill hole successfully infilled the Yaragua vein system, intersecting grades X thickness in line with the mineral resource block model as follows:

0.9 metres @ 23.3 g/t gold and 14.7 g/t silver (SA12 Vein)

2.55 metres @ 5.87 g/t gold and 56.5 g/t silver (FWV11 Vein)

Three drill rigs continue to operate with numerous holes completed and awaiting assays. Results are expected to continue to be released in a timely manner.

Figure 1 - Plan View of the Yaragua and Veta Sur Vein Systems and the Numerically-Listed BMZ Targets





Figure 2 -Plan View of Drilling into BMZ Target #1





Figure 3 - Cross Section A - A1





Figure 4 - Long Section of Drill Holes





Ari Sussman, Chief Executive Officer, stated: "The results of BMZ drilling are impressive to say the least and will lead to greater mine plan flexibility once commercial production commences in 2020. The potential is very real for upside growth in total mineral resource ounces and improved project economics. Our geological team's ability to generate exciting brownfield and grassroots targets from our rich mineral district at Buritica will continue to be a value-driver for shareholders as blue-sky potential is unlocked. Accelerating the drilling program only makes sense given the upside, the support of Newmont Mining and the strong financial position of the Company."

Table I: Drill Holes Targeting the BMZ



Hole ID From(m) To(m) Intercept

Interval*(m) Gold** (g/t) Silver** (g/t) Mid-Point

Elevation (m) True Width(m) BUUY329 27.8 67.0 39.2 5.15 12.2 1503 28.51 incl 54.7 60.5 5.8 29.14 65.2 BUUY330 58.9 88.5 29.6 14.33 19.8 1481 24.14 incl 62.7 64 1.3 38.05 98.3 and 76.4 79.8 3.4 52.81 40.9 and 81.2 88.5 7.3 21.46 32.9 BUUY331 37.0 82.6 45.6 17.67 16.2 1487 26.69 incl 40.8 42.5 1.7 32.70 199.3 and 73.5 75.7 2.2 308.98 83.5 BUUY332 36.1 74.7 38.6 5.25 8.6 1499 28.51 incl 46.45 47.45 1.0 60.71 52.3 and 48.55 49.7 1.15 43.46 46.1 and 58.5 59.55 1.05 10.13 17.3 BUUY333 44.85 47.4 2.55 5.87 56.5 1505 1.91 49.7 50.6 0.9 23.3 14.7 1503 0.68 60.1 61.7 1.6 5.16 7.0 1498 1.2 BUUY334 21.8 55.5 33.7 9.83 24.1 1536 30.81 incl 40.1 43.5 3.4 81.79 177.6 BUUY335 21.65 55.7 34.05 10.54 4.9 1523 30.27 incl 27.0 30.2 3.2 94.84 20.9 and 52.7 53.2 0.5 26.00 15.3 BUUY336 24.0 57.9 33.9 17.17 25.6 1536 30.80 incl 31.5 33.0 1.5 43.49 63.6 and 38.25 40.45 2.2 196.00 261.4 BUUY337 22.1 55.5 33.4 6.04 8.8 1531 31.07 incl 22.1 23.1 1.0 52.61 8.1 and 29.8 32.5 2.7 23.11 42.2 and 48.25 51.8 3.55 15.69 26.4 BUUY338 23.95 57.75 33.8 3.11 6.2 1523 30.07 incl 23.95 24.45 0.5 35.10 25.6 and 42.9 45.2 2.3 21.14 50.0 and 45.7 46.2 0.5 18.25 18.3

* Intercepts calculated at a composite 1 g/t gold equivalent (70:1 Au/Ag) for minimum intervals of 0.5 metres, with up to 20% internal dilution. Drill holes designated "BUUY" were collared from underground.

** Grades herein are reported as uncapped values.

Note: Certain drill holes went through narrow mined-out tunnels and, for those intersections, precious metal grades from either the May 2015 NP 43-101 mineral resource block model or channel sampling results previously announced were incorporated into the overall interval. If neither were available, a grade of nil was assigned.

Geological Description of the Buritica Project

Continental's 100%-owned, 70,764-hectare project, Buritica, contains several known areas of high-grade gold and silver mineralization, of base metal carbonate-style ("Stage I") variably overprinted by texturally and chemically distinctive high-grade ("Stage II") mineralization. The two most extensively explored of these areas (the Yaragua and Veta Sur systems) are central to this land package. The Yaragua system has been drill-outlined along 1,100 metres of strike and 1,700 vertical metres and partially sampled in underground developments. The Veta Sur system has been drill-outlined along 1,000+ metres of strike and 1,800 vertical metres and has been partially sampled in underground developments. Both systems are characterized by multiple, steeply-dipping veins and broader, more disseminated mineralization and both remain open at depth and along strike, at high grades.

Technical Information

Mauricio Castaneda, Vice-President, Exploration of the Company and a qualified person for the purpose of NI 43-101, has prepared or supervised the preparation of, or approved, as applicable, the technical information contained in this press release.

The Company utilizes a rigorous, industry-standard QA/QC program. HQ and NQ core is sawn or split with one-half shipped to a sample preparation lab in Medellin run by ALS Colombia Limited ("ALS") in Colombia, whereas BQ core samples are full core. Samples are then shipped for analysis to an ALS-certified assay laboratory in Lima, Peru. The remainder of the core is stored in a secured storage facility for future assay verification. Blanks, duplicates and certified reference standards are inserted into the sample stream to monitor laboratory performance and a portion of the samples are periodically check assayed at SGS Colombia S.A., a certified assay laboratory in Medellin, Colombia.

The Company does not receive assay results for drill holes in sequential order; however, all significant assay results are publicly reported. A listing of assay results to date for the Buritica project is available on the Company's website at www.continentalgold.com.

For information on the Buritica project, please refer to the technical report, prepared in accordance with NI 43-101, entitled "Buritica Project NI 43-101 Technical Report Feasibility Study, Antioquia, Colombia" and dated March 29, 2016 with an effective date of February 24, 2016, led by independent consultants JDS Energy & Mining Inc. The technical report is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, on the OTCQX at www.otcmarkets.com and on the Company website at www.continentalgold.com.

About Continental Gold

Continental Gold Inc. is an advanced-stage exploration and development company with an extensive portfolio of 100%-owned gold projects in Colombia. Formed in April 2007, the Company - led by an international management team with a successful track record of discovering and developing large high-grade gold deposits in Latin America - is focused on advancing its fully-permitted high-grade Buritica gold project to production with first gold pour on track for early 2020. Additional details on Continental Gold's suite of gold exploration properties are also available at www.continentalgold.com.
Boca Raton, FL, USA, 09/18/2017 /SubmitPressRelease123/

Its one of the most dangerous times on the highway. Someone is coming onto the highway from an on ramp but there are vehicles in the far right lane. Someone has to give or there will be a car accident. Boca car accident lawyer Joe Osborne says both those on the highway and those getting on it need to follow the laws, be courteous and be safe.

Lane changing and merging collisions were about 4% of all police-reported collisions in 1991 and were about 0.5% of all vehicle accident fatalities that year, according to a study by researchers from the Rutgers Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that 19,000 accidents happened when vehicles merged onto highways that year.

A merging vehicle must change lanes on a limited stretch of roadway while traveling close to or at highway speed. The driver must time the merge correctly so it can resolve an unsafe conflict with oncoming vehicles or there will be a collision.

Technically speaking Florida law doesnt state which vehicle has the right of way though it states when one vehicle needs to yield to another. Those entering a highway from a secondary road need to yield to vehicles in the travel lanes.

Here are some suggestions on safe merging from AARP:

Prepare for merging while traveling on the on ramp. As you approach the highway look around you, in front of you (someone may be traveling at a slow speed or stopped in front of you), behind and to your right.

Do your best to check your blind spots to make sure you wont be cutting someone off or colliding into them.

Be wary of motorcycles and take extra caution at night and in bad weather.

Use your turn signal to remind other drivers you want to get onto the highway.

Identify a safe gap that you can merge into.

Speed up to match the speeds of the other vehicles.

Dont stop before merging unless its absolutely necessary.

Yield to highway traffic and move over when its safe to do so.

If you need to cross several highway lanes do so one at a time while using your turn signal.

Be aware of the length of the merge lane which can vary greatly.

Once youre on the highway try to be courteous to drivers entering the highway by moving over if its safe to do so. This will make it easier for the other driver and reduce the risk of a collision with you.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident on the highway, contact Boca car accident lawyer Joe Osborne at (561) 800-4011 or fill out this online contact form. You can discuss your case, how the law may apply and your best legal options to protect your rights and obtain compensation for your injuries.



Press Contact:

Joe Osborne

(561) 800-4011

source: http://www.oa-lawfirm.com/merge-onto-highway-caution-urges-boca-car-accident-lawyer-joe-osborne/

Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution  SubmitMyPressRelease.com

Like Us on Facebook

It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print
What To Do If Youre Assaulted By An Airport Worker

New York City, NY, 09/18/2017 /SubmitPressRelease123/

People around the world were stunned when a video of airport police officers dragging a bloodied and unconscious passenger off a United Airlines plane made headlines. The ensuing public relations fallout was so intense that United announced it would drop its famous fly the friendly skies slogan and rebrand. Several more high-profile incidents have followed, causing people to question just how friendly commercial airlines are these days.

easyJet Worker Punches Man Holding Child in the Face

Unfortunately, airline customer service doesnt seem to have improved. In July 2017, the New York Times and other media outlets reported that an airport worker in Nice, France punched an easyJet passenger who was holding a baby in his arms.

The Times reports that the passenger attempted to snap a photo of the airline employee, who was allegedly smiling  something that irritated a long queue of passengers who had just been told their flight was delayed for 14 hours. The employee swiftly slapped the cellphone to the floor. The [passenger] retaliated, shoving his hand into the attendants shoulder and then his face. The attendant, regaining his footing, lunged forward and threw a jab into the mans face.

Although no video of the incident has surfaced, several passengers captured photos of the incident, which indeed shows the airline worker with his army fully extended in a lunging position. Several passengers looking on seem shocked and horrified. The photos also clearly show that the passenger was holding a young child in his arms.

Passengers Rights in Airports and on Flights

Flying can be a stressful experience, especially when flights are delayed. No matter how high tensions rise, however, no airline worker has the right to assault a passenger. Snapping a photo of someone is not justification for physically attacking another person.

If you are assaulted or threatened with bodily injury by an airline worker, its important to contact an experienced aviation accident lawyer. Because airlines are government entities or semi-government entities in many places, pursuing compensation for an injury inflicted by one of their employees can be a complicated process. And because people are obviously traveling when these injuries occur, they may be thousands of miles from home. A knowledgeable aviation accident lawyer will know where to pursue a claim and how to handle what is often a complex legal process.

Contact an Aviation Accident Lawyer About Your Case Near You

Despite the rash of serious incidents involving the mistreatment of passengers, airline assault cases continue to make headlines. Hopefully, the fact that these disturbing incidents are coming to light will shine an important spotlight on the need for airlines to train their employees about the proper ways to handle stress and frustration. If you have been injured by an airline worker, flight attendant, or even another passenger, contact an aviation accident lawyer near you as soon as possible to discuss the options in your case.

Sources:

Author: Jonathan C. Reiter.

T: 866-324-9211.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING

Prior results cannot and do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future case. Recoveries always depend upon the facts and circumstances of each case, the injuries suffered, damages incurred, and the responsibility of those involved.

source: http://injuryaccidentnews.jcreiterlaw.com/2017/09/09/youre-assaulted-airport-worker/

Social Media Tags:Airport Worker Assault, Assaulted by an Airport Worker, Aviation Accident Lawyer, Passengers Rights in Airports

Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution  SubmitMyPressRelease.com

Like Us on Facebook

It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print
This photo from December 2014 shows the frozen ceiling and icy walls of a cave on Mount Erebus in Antarctica.

Although the temperatures in caves on the world's southernmost active volcano are closer to those of a summer night than those of a sauna, new research suggests that even this moderate heat may make life possible there.

A team of researchers slid and rappelled into frosty caves on Mount Erebus in Antarctica to search for evidence of organisms lurking in the soil. By analyzing the soil samples, they discovered DNA from a variety of organisms, including fungi, mosses, algae and animals such as roundworms, a new study reveals.

"You have to remember that what we found was the genetic signature of these organisms. We haven't found them crawling around in there," study co-author Craig Cary, a professor of environmental biotechnology at the University of Waikato in New Zealand, told Live Science. [Images: See an Antarctic Glacier Calve an Iceberg]

In fact, it's possible that the organisms never actually lived in the caves, study co-author Laurie Connell, a research professor of microbial ecology at the University of Maine, told Live Science. Perhaps, the organisms blew into the caves, she said.

A field technician looks on as he lowers Craig Cary into a cave on the southwest flank of Mount Erebus. (Image credit: Craig Cary, International Centre for Terrestrial Antarctic Research)

But these findings do suggest that even at the ends of the Earth, such hostile environments may be pocked with habitable niches.

"It's just another sort of confirmation that the places you're most likely to find more complex organisms is where you have some sort of energy source  in this case, a heat source from the volcanic activity," Scott Rogers, a professor of molecular biology at Bowling Green State University who was not involved in the new study, told Live Science.

In 2013, beneath more than 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) of ice, Rogers and his team found the majority of the DNA and RNA (a genetic molecule that plays a role in translating the body's proteins) from thousands of species of organisms in ice from the Antarctic Lake Vostok close to what the team believes to be hydrothermal activity, according to a study in the journal Biology.

For Cary, his work in extending the known reach of traces of life into Antarctic caves on a volcano has been an otherworldly experience.

"Working in these geothermal sites reminds me of the soil on the moon, when Armstrong stepped and left that impression. Your feet leave impressions like that. The only thing is, they don't last very long because the heat coming up through the soil has a tendency to reinflate the soil and so, year after year, when we go back, we don't tend to see our footsteps," Cary told Live Science.

Ethereal blue light filters through Hut Cave on Mount Erebus in Antarctica in this 2010 photo. (Image credit: Craig Cary, International Centre for Terrestrial Antarctic Research)

Next, his team member Connell hopes to learn more about these species and how long they may have been isolated in caves on Mount Erebus. She hopes, too, to better understand how the species her team found DNA of are related to the same or similar species that are already known and how long these species may have been isolated in caves.

Cary also wants to know more about what other traces of life might remain in Mount Erebus caves.

"Now we want to get down and do some subsurface stuff  actually getting down into the soil  because that's where I think some of the real exciting bacteria are hiding," said Cary.

The new study was published online Aug. 17 in the journal Polar Biology (opens in new tab).

Original article on Live Science.
Like any homicide detective, dinosaur hunters search for clues hinting at how these ancient beasts died. One of these clues morphed into a mystery that researchers have just solved: Why is the armored, tank-like ankylosaurus almost always found on its back?

Paleontologists have puzzled over this belly-up death pose since 1933, and a new analysis shows that these observances weren't just coincidence: Out of 37 fossil ankylosaurs discovered in Alberta, Canada, 26 (70 percent) were found upside down, the researchers of a new study found.

The answer to this mystery was surprisingly straightforward, although it involved a touch of physics. These Late Cretaceous armored beasts were swept out to sea after they died, where they flipped over, sunk down to the seabed and fossilized, the researchers found. [Photos: See the Armored Dinosaur Named for Zuul from 'Ghostbusters']

Predators and roadkill

Before the researchers reached this conclusion, they overturned other hypotheses about the ankylosaurs' strange, upside-down position. One idea suggested that ravenous, dinosaur-age predators had turned over the ankylosaurs' dead bodies. But only one of the upside-down ankylosaurus had tooth marks on it, indicating that this wasn't the answer.

The remains of an upside-down ankylosaur (Image credit: Canadian Museum of Nature)

Another idea floated by dinosaur researchers alleged that after the dinosaurs died on dry land, their bodies filled with gas as they decomposed. This bloating might have caused them to roll over on their backs.

But this wasn't the answer either, the researchers found. There isn't any animal alive today that looks like the ankylosaur, a beast that could reach up to 26 feet (8 meters) in length, weighed up to 8 tons and had a long tail, sometimes with a bony club at the end. So, the researchers opted to observe armadillos, which also have tails and armored backs, and they walk on four legs.

To be specific, the researchers looked at 174 pictures of armadillo roadkill. But these dead animals were just as likely to be on their sides and bellies as their backs, even after the researchers accounted for bloating, abdominal rupture and scavenging.

Armadillos that die as roadkill don't have a "preferred" position in death. They're just as likely to be on their backs as on their bellies or sides. (Image credit: Jim Loughry, Colleen McDonough)

"It's almost split evenly, the three ways," said study co-researcher Donald Henderson, the curator of dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology in Alberta. "There's no preferred way of being dead."

Finally, the researchers tested what turned out to be the correct hypothesis  that the ankylosaurs had either drowned or been swept out to sea once they died.

"We used computer modeling to show that ankylosaurs likely flipped over due to a phenomenon called 'bloat-and-float,' where the gases that accumulate in the bloating belly of the carcass cause the animal to flip over while suspended in water," lead study researcher Jordan Mallon, a paleobiologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ontario, Canada, told Live Science in an email.

Mallon noted that most of the dinosaur skeletons found in Alberta are uncovered in river deposits, "but it seems, so far, that only the ankylosaurs are habitually found on their backs," he said.

Given that other dead dinosaurs didn't flip over in the water, how did the ankylosaur pull off this feat? The computer model showed that when an ankylosaur's center of gravity (a downward force) didn't match its center of buoyancy (an upward force), a disturbance such as a breeze, current or wave could cause the rotund, bloated animal to turn upside down, Henderson told Live Science. [Wipe Out: History's Most Mysterious Extinctions]

Computer-generated models show the ankylosaur and its cousin, the nodosaur, submerged in the water: (A) an unbloated, floating nodosaur; (B) a bloated, floating nodosaur; (C) an unbloated, floating ankylosaur; and (D) a bloated, floating ankylosaur. The plus sign represents the center of mass, and the diamond represents the center of buoyancy. Notice that the center of mass and buoyancy offset is greater in the bloated models, and this greater offset led to instability while floating. This instability could help the dinosaur flip over onto its back. (Image credit: Donald Henderson)

The finding may also apply to glyptodonts, animals that look like giant armadillos that went extinct about 10,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age, Mallon said.

"It's been said that glyptodonts, too, are often found on their backs, and we suspect that this may be due to a similar boat-and-float phenomenon," Mallon said.

The research has yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal, but "we think we've got a watertight case," Henderson joked. That case was presented Aug. 25 at the 2017 Society of Vertebrate Paleontology meeting in Calgary, Alberta.

Original article on Live Science.
by Aaron Baar , September 18, 2017

For much of its history, the American Cancer Society has been known for its cancer research and prevention efforts. But the organization does a lot more than that.

We do so much, but theres so much that people dont know we do, Irma Shrivastava, senior vice president of strategic marketing alliances, development and marketing, tells Marketing Daily. What we realized was we werent doing ourselves the benefit of telling people what the ACS is.

The ACS this week is launching a new marketing campaign highlighting these extended works, which includes driving cancer patients to treatments, offering insurance advice and arranging lodging near treatment for those who have to make long trips. The broadened approach is in part a reflection of the ways cancer is being treated.

advertisement advertisement

Our mission is a world without cancer, but unfortunately, were far from that goal, Shrivastava says. There is increased survivorship, and were proud of our role in that.

The campaign includes a new series of commercials (from The Richards Group in Dallas) featuring patient stories, told by actors who have been cancer patients themselves, explaining all that the ACS had done for them during their fight with cancer. I used to have more hair. I used to have more color. And, I used to have cancer, says a young man in one spot. He then explains that he used to know what the ACS did in terms of research, before availing himself of the other services. I used to give a little, but then I got so much more, he says. I used to have cancer. The campaign ends with a new tagline, Attacking from every angle, meant to express the breadth of the not-for-profits work.

We take a personal story, and that draws in the heart, and through that we talk about the breadth of what the ACS does and is, Shrivastava says.

The ACSs previous campaign put the focus on the qualities cancer patients have shown fighting the disease. Telling stories such as a girl who had lost her hair due to chemotherapy getting ready for prom as a statement of courage, the campaign used the tagline, Advantage Humans, to showcase the everyday fight against the disease.

The purpose of the new campaign, which will include paid and donated media, radio partnerships and other activations, is to convince people that the ACS is a worthy investment for their donations in the fight against cancer.

This speaks more to the point of difference for the ACS. We had [previously focused] on our connection to addressing cancer research, but the marketplace has changed, Shrivastava says.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, September 18, 2017

Google's plan to dominate the travel business with search, referrals, recommendations and online advertising buys through AdWords seems to be working. One analyst firm suggests Google's travel business worth is about $100 billion.

Google's U.S.-booked air volume rose 13.6% year-over-year to $159 million, according to one report.

At $100 billion, Googles travel business contributes about 15% to Googles $650 billion market cap, according to Skift Research.

Here's how analysis from Skift Research comes to this conclusion by analyzing financial disclosures for the first half of 2017 and full-year 2016, and estimating how much these companies spent on Google.

The research group estimates that metasearch engines like Kayak and Trivago will spend 25% more, helping Google's travel business to generate about $14 billion in revenue in 2017.

advertisement advertisement

Priceline spent 23.5% more on advertising during the six months of 2017 compared with the prior year, which puts digital ad spend on pace to reach $4.3 billion in 2017, according to the research. And while Expedia does not disclose quarterly ad spend, the research note mentions it does disclose direct marketing costs -- which rose 28%, putting Expedia's digital ad spend at about $2.9 billion.

Priceline, which broke down its online and offline advertising in 2016 filings, recently changed to performance advertising from brand advertising such as TV. The research firm uses performance metrics as a proxy for online spend. Figures suggest that Priceline spent 92% of its ad budget online.

And with a few numbers on hand within Expedia's footnotes in its financial statement, Skift analysts estimates Expedia spent 85%. Factored into that number, research from Skift analyzed Expedia's exposure to Trivagos television push.

Combined, Priceline and Expedia likely spent $5.8 billion on digital advertising in 2016.

The analysis also factors in hotels -- with Airbnb specifically at about $1 billion, and other travel agencies amounting to about $5 billion in Google ad spend in 2016, which includes AdWords.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, September 18, 2017

Google has offered to serve up rival shopping comparison sites via an auction to comply in the interim period with the $2.7 billion fine the European Union imposed on the search giant for favoring its own content in Shopping search results. Competitors can bid for spots in its Product Listing Ads.

In June, the EU fined Alphabet -- Google's parent company -- billions. This interim proposal submitted to the EU would allow competitors to bid for any spot in Product Listing Ads, Reuters reports, citing people who are familiar with the deal. The proposal explains that Google would set a bottom price with its own bids minus operating costs.

Reuters reports that the proposal seems similar to a previous attempt that was unsuccessful.

EU antitrust regulators ruled that Google had abused its authority by promoting its own shopping comparison service on its own Internet property at the top of search results.

advertisement advertisement

The fine follows a seven-year investigation and is the largest imposed fine for a monopoly case in the EU, according to some reports.

In July, Google reported that net income for the three-month quarter ending in June 2017 fell 28% to $3.5 billion as a result of the fine, making it the largest decline in revenue for the company since 2008.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, September 18, 2017

OMD Worldwide is shaking up its top management. The Omnicom Media Group agency has named John Osborn CEO of its US operations. Osborn joins OMD from sibling agency BBDO NY where he was president for nearly 14 years.

Also the agency is getting a new global CEO: Florian Adamski, currently CEO of OMG Germany. He is succeeding Mainardo de Nardis who is taking on the new role of vice chairman Omnicom Media Group.

At BBDO, Osborn is succeeded by Kirsten Flanik who was being groomed for the new role since being appointed president of the New York agency in May of 2016.

The OMD moves are designed to shake the agency out of the doldrums. It's lost a couple of key pieces of business recently including Walgreens-Boots Alliance and Lowe's. With his agency background Osborn is seen as someone who can connect content with context in a way that clients are demanding more in today's environment.

advertisement advertisement

Osborn succeeds Monica Karo, who is shifting to a global role as Chief Client Officer of OMD Worldwide. Client management is seen as Karo's sweet spot.

Osborn first joined BBDO New York to work on the Pepsi business in 1996. He rose through the ranks and is credited as the principal architect of BBDOs integrated marketing efforts, expanding services to include digital and social marketing, experiential marketing, design and more. He was named president in 2004.

As president and CEO, Osborn continued to focus on BBDOs growth in all iterations, innovating in areas like healthcare and expanded data capabilities by establishing an in-house partnership with Omnicom Media Groups Annalect data and analytics platform.

At a time when clients are looking for integrated solutions, having agency leadership with experience across the broad spectrum of marketing services is critical to growth and client success, stated Daryl Simm, CEO of Omnicom Media Group.

Johns cross-channel expertise, combined with his skill in creating and leading multi-disciplinary teams, makes him the ideal choice to lead OMD, added Omnicom Media Group North America CEO Page Thompson. Hes a proven and passionate leader who knows how to build the relationships  with clients, with agency partners, and with talent  that build brands.

Karo was named CEO of OMD U.S. in September 2013. Previously she was CEO at sibling media agency PHD. Prior to taking the reins at PHD, Karo was President of Integrated Accounts at Omnicom Media Group, working with global brands including Apple and Visa. As the new CEO of OMD, she rejoined the shop that she first joined at its inception in 2002.

De Nardis joined OMD as global CEO 2009. Earlier he served as CEO at Aegis Media (before it was acquired by Dentsu) and earlier he was CEO at WPPs Mediaedge: CIA
Deciding that you are now ready to quit smoking is only half the battle. Knowing where to start on your path to becoming smoke-free can help you to take the leap. We have put together some effective ways for you to stop smoking today. Share on Pinterest Quitting smoking can be tough, but we have put together some steps that may help you along the way. Tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke are responsible for more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States, according to the American Lung Association. Most people are aware of the numerous health risks that arise from cigarette smoking and yet, tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the U.S. Quitting smoking is not a single event that happens on one day; it is a journey. By quitting, you will improve your health and the quality and duration of your life, as well as the lives of those around you. To quit smoking, you not only need to alter your behavior and cope with the withdrawal symptoms experienced from cutting out nicotine, but you also need to find other ways to manage your moods. With the right game plan, you can break free from nicotine addiction and kick the habit for good. Here are five ways to tackle smoking cessation.

1. Prepare for quit day Once you have decided to stop smoking, you are ready to set a quit date. Pick a day that is not too far in the future (so that you do not change your mind), but which gives you enough time to prepare. Share on Pinterest Choose your quit date and prepare to stop smoking altogether on that day. There are several ways to stop smoking, but ultimately, you need to decide whether you are going to: quit abruptly, or continue smoking right up until your quit date and then stop

quit gradually, or reduce your cigarette intake slowly until your quit date and then stop Research that compared abrupt quitting with reducing smoking found that neither produced superior quit rates over the other, so choose the method that best suits you. Here are some tips recommended by the American Cancer Society to help you to prepare for your quit date: Tell friends, family, and co-workers about your quit date.

Throw away all cigarettes and ashtrays.

Decide whether you are going to go cold turkey  or use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or other medicines.

 or use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or other medicines. If you plan to attend a stop-smoking group, sign up now.

Stock up on oral substitutes, such as hard candy, sugarless gum, carrot sticks, coffee stirrers, straws, and toothpicks.

Set up a support system, such as a family member that has successfully quit and is happy to help you.

Ask friends and family who smoke to not smoke around you.

If you have tried to quit before, think about what worked and what did not. Daily activities  such as getting up in the morning, finishing a meal, and taking a coffee break  can often trigger your urge to smoke a cigarette. But breaking the association between the trigger and smoking is a good way to help you to fight the urge to smoke. On your quit day: Do not smoke at all.

Stay busy.

Begin use of your NRT if you have chosen to use one.

Attend a stop-smoking group or follow a self-help plan.

Drink more water and juice.

Drink less or no alcohol.

Avoid individuals who are smoking.

Avoid situations wherein you have a strong urge to smoke. You will almost certainly feel the urge to smoke many times during your quit day, but it will pass. The following actions may help you to battle the urge to smoke: Delay until the craving passes. The urge to smoke often comes and goes within 3 to 5 minutes.

until the craving passes. The urge to smoke often comes and goes within 3 to 5 minutes. Deep breathe. Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of three and exhale through your mouth for a count of three. Visualize your lungs filling with fresh air.

Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of three and exhale through your mouth for a count of three. Visualize your lungs filling with fresh air. Drink water sip by sip to beat the craving.

sip by sip to beat the craving. Do something else to distract yourself. Perhaps go for a walk. Remembering the four Ds can often help you to move beyond your urge to light up.

2. Use NRTs Going cold turkey, or quitting smoking without the help of NRT, medication, or therapy, is a popular way to give up smoking. However, only around 6 percent of these quit attempts are successful. It is easy to underestimate how powerful nicotine dependence really is. Share on Pinterest NRTs can help you to fight the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. NRT can reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms you experience that may hinder your attempt to give up smoking. NRTs are designed to wean your body off cigarettes and supply you with a controlled dose of nicotine while sparing you from exposure to other chemicals found in tobacco. The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved five types of NRT: skin patches

chewing gum

lozenges

nasal spray (prescription only)

inhaler (prescription only) If you have decided to go down the NRT route, discuss your dose with a healthcare professional before you quit smoking. Remember that while you will be more likely to quit smoking using NRT, the goal is to end your addiction to nicotine altogether, and not just to quit tobacco. Contact your healthcare professional if you experience dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, fast or irregular heartbeat, mouth problems, or skin swelling while using these products.

3. Consider non-nicotine medications The FDA have approved two non-nicotine-containing drugs to help smokers quit. These are bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix). Share on Pinterest Bupropion and varenicline are non-nicotine medications that may help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel that you would like to try one of these to help you to stop smoking, as you will need a prescription. Bupropion acts on chemicals in the brain that play a role in nicotine craving and reduces cravings and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Bupropion is taken in tablet form for 12 weeks, but if you have successfully quit smoking in that time, you can use it for a further 3 to 6 months to reduce the risk of smoking relapse. Varenicline interferes with the nicotine receptors in the brain, which results in reducing the pleasure that you get from tobacco use, and decreases nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is used for 12 weeks, but again, if you have successfully kicked the habit, then you can use the drug for another 12 weeks to reduce smoking relapse risk. Risks involved with using these drugs include behavioral changes, depressed mood, aggression, hostility, and suicidal thoughts or actions.

4. Seek behavioral support The emotional and physical dependence you have on smoking makes it challenging to stay away from nicotine after your quit day. To quit, you need to tackle this dependence. Trying counseling services, self-help materials, and support services can help you to get through this time. As your physical symptoms get better over time, so will your emotional ones. Share on Pinterest Individual counseling or support groups can improve your chances of long-term smoking cessation. Combining medication  such as NRT, bupropion, and varenicline  with behavioral support has been demonstrated to increase the chances of long-term smoking cessation by up to 25 percent . Behavioral support can range from written information and advice to group therapy or individual counseling in person, by phone, or online. Self-help materials likely increase quit rates compared with no support at all, but overall, individual counseling is the most effective behavioral support method. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) provide help to anyone who wants to stop smoking through their support services: smoking helpline: 1-877-44U-QUIT (1-877-448-7848)

local and state quitlines: 1- 800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)

LiveHelp online chat

online chat Smokefree website

SmokefreeTXT text messaging service

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram Support groups, such as Nicotine Anonymous (NicA), can prove useful too. NicA applies the 12-step process of Alcoholics Anonymous to tobacco addiction. You can find your nearest NicA group using their website or by calling 1-877-TRY-NICA (1-877-879-6422).
Were excited to announce that metalbulletin.com is now part of fastmarkets.com.

A new look and an improved experience means you can still stay ahead of this fast-moving metals market with price data, news and market intelligence right here on Fastmarkets.

Discover more than 2000 prices, news and analysis in primary and secondary metals markets. We cover base metals, industrial minerals, ores and alloys, steel, scrap and steel raw materials.

If you already have a Fastmarkets account, youll still have uninterrupted access to your markets by logging in with your current details.
Japanese sensation Shohei Otani is reportedly primed to head to the majors in the offseason, but dont be surprised if he changes his mind, Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times writes. The right-handed ace/left-handed slugger did just that in the past when it looked as if hed come to North America out of high school, but he instead decided to play professionally in his homeland. Some major league executives wonder whether an agent will talk Otani out of leaving Japan in the offseason, given that the 23-year-old would stand to benefit financially (to an enormous degree) by waiting until hes 25. At that point, hed be able to sign a mega-deal that would crush the relatively small contract hell land if he makes his way to the big leagues during the upcoming winter.

Thanks in part to the international spending limits in the new collective bargaining agreement, where Otani will sign in the offseason if he does emigrate from Japan in the offseason is shrouded in mystery, according to Buster Olney of ESPN. Its incredible how many unknowns there are, one evaluator said of Otani, who could consider factors such as geography, market size, friendships, endorsement opportunities and the designated hitter rule when choosing a team, Olney suggests.

The Mets have some reservations about using ace Noah Syndergaard again this year, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports (on Twitter). Unsurprisingly, if Syndergaard does return in 2017, the Mets will need to be convinced hes at full strength. The flamethrowing superstar hasnt pitched in the majors since April 30 because of a torn right lat, and while he has been working his way back recently, theres not exactly a need for the out-of-contention Mets to deploy him again this season.

have some reservations about using ace again this year, Matt Ehalt of The Record reports (on Twitter). Unsurprisingly, if Syndergaard does return in 2017, the Mets will need to be convinced hes at full strength. The flamethrowing superstar hasnt pitched in the majors since April 30 because of a torn right lat, and while he has been working his way back recently, theres not exactly a need for the out-of-contention Mets to deploy him again this season. Newly retired right-hander Ryan Vogelsong could have continued his career after Minnesota released him in March, but he told Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle and other reporters that he checked out mentally after the Twins cut him (Twitter links here). Vogelsong received minor league offers earlier this season, including from the Mets , but he didnt want to move his family to Las Vegas  the home of their Triple-A affiliate.

could have continued his career after Minnesota released him in March, but he told Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle and other reporters that he checked out mentally after the Twins cut him (Twitter links here). Vogelsong received minor league offers earlier this season, including from the , but he didnt want to move his family to Las Vegas  the home of their Triple-A affiliate. J.J. Cooper of Baseball America (subscription required and recommended) highlights 10 prospects who have taken major steps forward this year. The biggest name on the list is Phillies first baseman/outfielder Rhys Hoskins, who has mashed a record 18 home runs in his first 36 big league games since debuting Aug. 10. Hoskins gained more believers among scouts as he climbed closer to the majors, notes Cooper, who expects the 24-year-old to be a long-term impact player in Philadelphia.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

In a few years from now, when it has become a standard for award organisers to unveil nominees live on TV before the award event itself, September 19, 2017 will be the day it all started.

Yes, Big Events Ghana, organiser of RTP Awards will for the first time in Ghanas Awards history organise a live event to unveil nominees for the 2017 Awards on television.

Competition in the radio and television industry is arguably the keenest in Ghana and takes poise in ones body of work to compete in a prestigious award scheme like the RTP, and that step in itself is worthy of praise.

In view of this RTP Awards 2017 Nomination Unveil will project our nominees, celebrate them and give them the pre-award champagne popping moment because to be shortlisted in any category, out of over 6000 applications is in itself a triumph that cannot be downplayed.

Big Events Ghana the organisers of the RTP award have echoed on several occasions that, the courage to file an application without the guarantee of being shortlisted is in itself worthy of commendation because it takes a high level of conviction about ones body of work to bring it under such level of scrutiny and direct comparison with other key and equally seasoned personalities.

This is why we have dedicated a special day to celebrating all media houses, personalities and programs that filed for the application.

The RTP Awards 2017 Nominations Unveil will take place on Tuesday 19th of September at Holiday Inn Hotel, 3pm. The event will be telecasted live on TV and streamed on the RTP Awards Africa Facebook page and a host of other platforms.

The unveiling of nominees for all 46 categories will kick-start the call for voting as has been associated with the scheme since its inception in 2011.

Adjudged the best organised event in 2015 and crowned with a breath-taking show in 2016, the 7th RTP Awards is set to trail the blaze with an introduction of exciting innovations and set the tone for quality and internationally competitive Awards Organisation in Ghana across all major industries.

If RTP Awards 2015 was the best organised event in Ghana, if RTP Awards 2016 further entrenched this position, then RTP Awards 2017 is set to be the answer to call for the event to go beyond the borders of Ghana.

We are thankful to the media and the Ghanaian public for accepting this Awards scheme and making RTP what it is today.

As always, we will guarantee you a credible awards show and memorable event.

RTP Communications
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Ghanaian disc jockey (DJ), Unstoppable Sly is set to release his latest mixtape dubbed King of the City, today.

The 41-track mixtape features a variety of Ghanaian and Nigerian songs from some artistes including ShattaWale, Sarkodie, Toofan, Stonebwoy, EL among a host of others.

In an interview with showbiz on Friday, Unstoppable DJ Sly, who is also the host of Video Fusion on WatsUp TV, said the mixtape is a collection of bangers which are sure to thrill anyone who listens.

He added that the choices of songs for the mixtape were determined by how much impact the songs have had on the music scene.

I spent many hours making sure the songs on the mixtape are ones that the public can jam to. Although there are a number of Nigerian and Francophone songs on the mixtape,I placed more emphasis on Ghanaian, it is only right that I project Ghanaian music to the rest of the world.

In addition to songs from other artistes, Unstoppable DJ Sly also includes some of his own original songs and that of some other artistes.

On the mixtape, I have about three original productions with some artistes like Its Me which features Dammy Krane from Nigeria, Dah Na News which features Scientific from Liberia and Designer which features Airboy from Nigeria.

DJ Sly told Showbiz that currently his song with Scientific, Dah Na News is currently making waves in Liberia. He said the mixtape will be available online and for download on various music streaming websites.

This is not the first mixtape Im coming out with but its definitely the best so far, he said.

Below is the soundcloud link..

https://soundcloud.com/iamdjsly/dj-sly-king-of-the-city
Ghanaian local language film producers, actors and other crew members on Friday took to the street in the Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi, to demonstrate against the influx of telenovelas on Ghanaian TV screens and other problems affecting movie makers.

Among the demonstrators were popular actors like Vivian Jill, Yaw Dabo, Lilwin, Nana Ama McBrown, Akrobetu and a host of others.

The demonstration which was spearheaded by the Film Producers Association of Ghana (FIPAG) was to appeal to government to enforce laws that will protect local content and also help the local movie industry.

It was dubbed 'Y'ammamer yera, Y Gye Y'ade' demonstration, literally meaning that 'we are restoring our lost culture'.

The demonstrators carried placards and dressed in red to display their frustration.

The procession started from the Kumasi Cultural Centre and moved through some main streets in the city, until they arrived at the Manhyia Palace, where the leadership presented a petition to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, with hopes that he would put in a word through to President Akufo-Addo to listen to the plights of the movie industry.
A Linguistic Lecturer of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Mr. Peter Arthur, has disclosed that popular hit song, Confession by hiplife artiste Kofi Kinaata will be studied by students of the University.

Explaining the reason the University has decided to study the song, Mr Arthur said the song contains some universalistic values that could go a long way to teach Ghanaians a great deal about the ups and downs of life.

He told KMJ in an interview on Daybreak Hitz on Hitz FM that, We are not studying Kofi Kinata as a person but we are studying certain universalistic values and traits that his lyrics in the confession song is portraying. Something that can teach us about our own selves.

The lyrics of the song, which tells the story of a drunkard, will be studied as a Level 200 Literature material.

The song, which was originally composed in Fante, has been translated into English for Literary appreciation.

The Linguistic lecturer stressed that certain personalities, such as Shakespeare, are not studied because of who they were in society but for his outstanding literary works.

'Confessions, which was released in December 2016, won Highlife Song of the Year in the 2017 edition of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
Believers Love World Ministries, Christ Embassy Ghana, has announced its musical outreach programme, 'Shouts Of Victory', aimed at developing the youth in music and arts, career development and soul winning.

The 2017 edition of the annual event, fondly known as SOV, will bring together over 30 new musicians in a mentorship programme, including a one day career development training dubbed, 'My Call, My Career.'

The new musicians after the months of training and practice will be given the opportunity from Friday, October 20 to October 22 to perform alongside other international artistes at the SOV Concert in Accra.

Pastor Ernest Omoleme, Zonal Pastor, Christ Embassy, East, West and Central Africa Zone 5, disclosed that the church decided to come up with such an event four years ago to help nurture young music talents.

He stated that the youth have been gifted with talents that needed to be identified, developed and given the opportunity to showcase their talents alongside international artists.

Apart the main artistes we have new members signing their own song. It is our responsibility to give them the platform to showcase their talents and encourage them to continue. When we succeed in this, we would have given the youth the foundation to develop and be independent, he said.

Pastor Kwesi Minta, Chair of the 2017 SOV & Group Pastor Christ Embassy Tema, in his remarks mentioned that considering the gospel music talents that the church has produced, including Sinach, Frank Edwards, Eben and the South Africa gospel dynamo Martin Phike, who also graced the SOV stage in the previous editions, this year's event will be a success.

He said with insight from the first four years of quality music production, the committee is well-equipped to create even more opportunities for the youth in translating their talents into marketable brands.

We are confident that our programmes can impact real changes in the lives of the youth: helping them to be able to create a niche for themselves in the music and art industry, he added.

Ministering at SOV 2017 will be multiple awarding productions to equip and create even more opportunities for the youth in translating their talents into marketable brands.

We are calling on all, especially our media friends, to partner us in presenting this good news to the people of Ghana, he added.

By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri
17.09.2017 LISTEN

Geneva (Switzerland), Sept.14, GNA - Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia says the Government would launch an Agricultural Marshall Plan in November to enhance food production.

He said the Plan would focus on the use of scientific skills and knowledge approaches, provision of fertilizers to farmers and requisite storage and irrigation facilities to ensure high productivity.

The Vice President said the nation had sufficient arable lands, water resources and space to increase production and that she would tap the experiences of other countries that had implemented similar plans in the past.

He said there were available road networks that would facilitate the process to leverage on the public-private partnerships to enhance the infrastructural needs.

Vice President Bawumia said this at a media briefing after the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) High Level Panel Discussion, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The panel discussion, organised by the UNCTAD is on the theme: 'Accelerating Progress in Building Productive Capacities in Least Developing Countries and Other Vulnerable Developing Economies'.

Vice President Bawumia said government would ensure inclusiveness in the implementation of the Plan by involving farmers, rural folks and all the relevant stakeholders to achieve success.

He noted that empirical research showed that human capital played a pivotal role in enhancing productivity, adding; 'The Government of Ghana shared this vision in enhancing productivity'

'We cannot develop as a nation if a lot of the people don't have the requisite knowledge, skills and education, therefore, we launched the Free Senior High School Policy, which we believe that with the right curriculum, we will produce the generation of people who are problem solvers,' he said.

To enhance the production capacity, he said, the nation must add value to the agricultural produce instead of exporting raw materials.

The Vice President said the 'One District, One Factory,' initiative was a well thought-out plan for inclusive development of the 216 districts.

In the next few weeks, Dr Bawumia said, Government would launch the national digitisation of the economy, which would digitise the Public Address System, National Identification System and Interoperability of the Payment System, to boost the formalisation of the economy.

He said the digitisation of the economy would enhance quality delivery of services by state institutions and the private sector.

The implementation of the Paperless Ports from September 1, this year, had yielded positive dividend with 56 per cent increment of the ports revenue to the Government, he noted.

The Government, the Vice President said, would revamp the railway infrastructure to promote efficient transportation system that would accelerate national development.

UNCTAD is the United Nations body responsible for development issues, particularly international trade as the main driver of development.

GNA
Florida manatees swim and sleep in the sunshine and golden-brown panthers prowl the shady forests at Everglades National Park.

A swampy wilderness of gnarled cypress stands and waving sawgrass just beyond Miami's suburbs, this 1.5 million-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site can seem timeless.

But rising sea levels have spiked the fresh groundwater beneath the Everglades with salt, and plants and wildlife must quickly adapt to new conditions to survive.

That's why the Everglades are among the eight World Heritage Sites in the Americas included in UNESCO's list of "World Heritage in Danger," an exclusive club of 55 destinations, dominated by war-torn countries and terrorist hotspots.

Stretching from the Florida backwoods to an ancient Peruvian city and ghostly Chilean mines, these eight sites are some of the Americas' most extraordinary places. But they're also sites that UNESCO has found are threatened by "serious and specific" perils, whether human or environmental.

These eight UNESCO sites underscore the importance of preservation efforts in our backyards -- and invite adventurous travelers to explore them before they further deteriorate.

1. Everglades National Park, United States

This sprawling national park is teeming with life, including some plants and animals that are only found in its steaming, brackish swamps.

Exploring the Everglades is all about nature, whether you're spotting manatees on an airboat tour, watching the stars from a mangrove island or hunting for 39 species of native orchids on a guided kayak trip. Visitors may also spot crocodiles and alligators, since South Florida is the only place in the world where they co-exist.

Why it's at risk: Listed as a World Heritage Site since 1979, the Everglades were added to the "World Heritage in Danger" list for a second time in 2010, because the park's low-lying elevation makes the area vulnerable to rising sea levels driven by a warming climate.

2. Belize Barrier Reef Reserve, Belize

Stretching nearly the entire length of Belize's Caribbean coast, this massive reef system is the largest in the Northern Hemisphere, a chain of coral and sand that's visible from the International Space Station.

From water level, a detailed world comes into focus. Hundreds of cayes lie just above the surface, a constellation of mangrove and sand islands with a coral foundation, and the undersea landscape is remarkably varied.

A patchwork of pinnacle reefs, fringing reefs and barrier reefs makes this a compelling destination for snorkeling, and the Great Blue Hole draws scuba divers from around the world.

Why it's at risk: Since the Belize Barrier Reef was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1996, a lack of oversight has led to unsustainable fishing, deteriorating water quality and development. It was listed as threatened in 2009.

3. Chan Chan Archeological Zone, Peru

Hundreds of years before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, the Chimu people ruled the northern coast of Peru.

A civilization that thrived for hundreds of years, they worshipped the rising moon, worked gold and silver into elegant jewelry and built the sprawling metropolis of Chan Chan, which is still the largest mud brick city in the world.

Before Chan Chan fell to an invading army led by the Inca emperor Topa Inca Yupanqui in 1470, it became a society of powerful elites, highly trained craftsmen and farmers.

Modern-day visitors will find the remains of irrigation canals and adobe architecture, crumbling temples and courtyards that offer a glimpse of the city's glory days.

Why it's at risk: Exposure to more than five hundred years of rainwater has begun to melt the city back into mud, and UNESCO scientists believe that erosion will cause even more damage as a changing climate brings greater extremes of weather. Chan Chan was designated as threatened in 1986, the same year it was added to the World Heritage List.

4. Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve, Honduras

In the thickly forested northeast of Honduras, the Rio Platano watershed winds from tropical peaks to the Caribbean coast, passing petroglyphs, traditional indigenous communities and lowland savanna on the way toward the sea.

Endangered great green macaws fly through the largest intact rainforest in Central America, where 411 species of bird have been identified. Four kinds of sea turtles swim along the biosphere's marine boundary, and the Mexican spider monkey -- also on the endangered list -- forages for wild fruits in the canopy.

This is a true adventure frontier, and it's best to explore with a guide who can arrange home stays and transport by truck and boat.

Why it's at risk: Many impoverished communities in the biosphere fish and hunt illegally and clear trees for subsistence farming. The Rio Platano Biosphere was added to the World Heritage list in 1982 and designated "in danger" for a second time in 2011.

5. Potosi, Bolivia

The dry mountains of the Bolivian Andes are shot through with silver, and indigenous people dug ore from the hills for centuries before the arrival of Europeans.

It wasn't until 1545 that Peruvian Diego Huallpa's discovery of extraordinary silver deposits in Potosi ignited a mining boom that transformed an isolated village into a Spanish Imperial City, sending ships loaded with ore across the Atlantic Ocean.

Silver mines still honeycomb the Cerro de Potosi, or Cerro Rico, the mountain that looms above the high altitude city. Walk the streets of Potosi to find superb colonial-era buildings that blend indigenous design with stately Baroque architecture.

Why it's at risk: Potosi's historic buildings, which were designated as a World Heritage Site in 1987, abut modern parts of the city, with no buffer zone to protect the landmarks. Also, ongoing mining has destabilized the surrounding mountains. Potosi was listed as "in danger" in 2014.

6. Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, Chile

Now that Chile's salt mines are quiet, these are the country's most haunting ghost towns, a sprawl of abandoned homes, shops and factories in northern Chile's bone-dry Pampas desert.

From 1880 until World War II, the residents of company-run towns unearthed massive deposits of saltpeter, a chemical compound used for making bombs and fertilizer.

Visitors can explore the fascinating places where workers lived, worked and worshipped, then see the mine shafts where they dug the "white gold" of the 19th century.

Why it's at risk: Neglected for years, the saltpeter works were added to both the World Heritage and the "in danger" lists in 2005. An earthquake further damaged buildings in 2014.

7. Portobelo-San Lorenzo, Panama

The high stone walls around this Caribbean town were mostly built in the 17th and 18th centuries to protect Spanish gold and plundered treasure -- so it's no wonder that Portobelo tempted pirates and adventurers from around the Caribbean.

Privateer Henry Morgan sacked the settlement in 1668 before moving on to Panama City, but Portobelo's walls had the last word, keeping watch along the coast for centuries after his death. The fortifications were designated a World Heritage Site in 1980.

Although many visitors explore the ruins at Portobelo on a long day trip from Panama City, spending a night is essential to soak up the laid-back vibe of the fishing town. Watch for sails on the horizon as you walk the fortifications and visit the Black Christ figure in the Iglesia de San Felipe before slipping into the ocean to snorkel with sea turtles.

Why it's at risk: With no defined boundaries around the fortifications, unchecked development threatens the 400 year-old structures, which were added to the list of threatened sites in 2012.

8. Coro, Venezuela

Unravel the roots of Coro's fascinating architecture, and you'll find Moorish influences brought by Spanish conquistadors blended with Dutch building styles imported from Aruba and Curacao.

Colonial history abounds in a city founded in 1527, just 35 years after the 1492 voyage of Christopher Columbus.

And with a strategic location on the northern coast of Venezuela, The fort at Coro's historic port, La Vela de Coro, was the first place seized in Francisco de Miranda's 1806 campaign to liberate South America from Spanish rule.

Why it's at risk: Coro and its port were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1993, and added to the "in danger" list in 2005. Heavy rains have damaged some of Coro's historic buildings, and a lack of oversight by the troubled Venezuelan government means development threatens the site's integrity.
President Nana Akufo-Addo is proposing legislation to Parliament to designate August 4 as Founders Day, ditching September 21 as the commemorative day for Ghanas liberation and independence fighters.

However, September 21 will be observed as 'Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day'.

Both days  August 4 and September 21 -- will be observed as public holidays, according to a statement signed by the Director of Communications at the presidency, Mr Eugene Arhin said.

The statement said in the meantime, the President has issued an Executive Instrument to commemorate this years celebration of Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day as a public holiday.

It is clear that successive generations of Ghanaians made vital contributions to the liberation of our country from imperialism and colonialism. It is, therefore, fitting that we honour them, as those who contributed to the founding of our nation.

The most appropriate way to honour them is to commemorate the day on which the two most significant events in our colonial political history, that led us to independence, occurred  4th August.

On that day, in 1897, the Aborigines Rights Protection Society (ARPS) was formed in Cape Coast. The Society did a great job to mobilise the chiefs and people to ward off the greedy hands of British imperialism to ensure that control of Ghanaian lands remained in Ghanaian hands. It represented the first monumental step towards the making of modern Ghana, enabling us to avoid the quagmire of land inheritance that our brothers and sisters in Southern and Eastern Africa continue to suffer, from the seizures of their lands by white minorities, the statement explains.

Below is the full statement below.

It is unfortunate that 60 years after independence, the history of the events leading to it continues to be embroiled in unnecessary controversy, due largely to partisan political considerations of the moment.

It is clear that successive generations of Ghanaians made vital contributions to the liberation of our country from imperialism and colonialism. It is, therefore, fitting that we honour them, as those who contributed to the founding of our nation.

The most appropriate way to honour them is to commemorate the day on which the two most significant events in our colonial political history, that led us to independence, occurred  4th August.

On that day, in 1897, the Aborigines Rights Protection Society (ARPS) was formed in Cape Coast. The Society did a great job to mobilise the chiefs and people to ward off the greedy hands of British imperialism to ensure that control of Ghanaian lands remained in Ghanaian hands. It represented the first monumental step towards the making of modern Ghana, enabling us to avoid the quagmire of land inheritance that our brothers and sisters in Southern and Eastern Africa continue to suffer, from the seizures of their lands by white minorities.

In a deliberate act in the continuum of Ghanaian history, exactly fifty years later, on 4th August, 1947, at Saltpond, the great nationalists of the time gathered to inaugurate the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), the first truly nationalist party of the Gold Coast, to demand the independence of our nation from British rule, at a gathering which included paramount chiefs, clergymen, lawyers, entrepreneurs, teachers, traders and men and women from all walks of life in the Gold Coast, according to an eye witness.

The inauguration set the ball rolling for our nations attainment of independence, and for the dramatic events, including the birth in 1949 of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), that ushered us into freedom.

That day, 4th August, is, thus, obviously the most appropriate day to signify our recognition and appreciation of the collective efforts of our forebears towards the founding of a free, independent Ghana.

It is equally clear that the first leader of independent Ghana, and the nations first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, played an outstanding role in helping to bring to fruition the works of the earlier generations, and leading us to the promised land of national freedom and independence. It is entirely appropriate that we commemorate him for that role, by designating his birthday as the permanent day of his remembrance.

The President has, therefore, decided to propose legislation to Parliament to designate 4th August as FOUNDERS DAY, and 21st September as KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL DAY, both of which will be observed as public holidays. In the meantime, the President has issued an Executive Instrument to commemorate this years celebration of KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL DAY as a public holiday.

signed

Eugene Arhin

Director of Communications

Office of the President

Accra, 15th September, 2017.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com
The Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Health has called on authorities at the Tema General Hospital to move quickly with the probe into the death of a 10-year-old boy who was allegedly administered with a wrong medication at the facility.

According to the President of the Coalition, Dr Gabriel Benakuu, a lengthy investigation into the fatal incident was not even necessary because existing frameworks that regulate the work of health workers, such as protocols for treatment of a patient and the Patients Right Charter, could bring closure to the matter.

Authorities are trying to be silent on the critical issues, he said on current affairs programme, PM Express that aired on the Joy News channel on Multi TV, Thursday.

Last week, the Tema General Hospital made the headlines after revelations that a ten-year-old boy died from complications allegedly resulting from a drug prescribed by the hospital's pharmacy.

Director of the hospital, Dr Opoku Adusei, has refrained from commenting extensively on the matter , insisting he did not want to pre-empt the outcome of the investigations.

However, Dr Benakuu believes a full report could have been compiled within 24-hours of the incident.

A report should have come in early enough, he said.

This tells us that our health system is not strengthened enough. There is so much lax and negligence at not only the Tema General Hospital but all over the country, he laments.

According to the mother of the deceased 10-year-old, Mabel Senahey, a Doctor at the Tema General Hospital prescribed 50mg of the analgesic Naklofen Duo Capsule for her son, however, the hospitals Pharmacist changed it to 75mg.

Related: Nurses post over death of 10yr old boy sparks social media outrage

She said when she notified the doctor about the discrepancy, the doctor directed her to go ahead and administer the drug.

Shortly after her son took the medicine, he started complaining of heartburn and stomach pains which forced the mother to bring the boy back to the hospital.

According to her, her repeated attempts to get the nurses on duty to call in any of the doctors to attend to her son proved futile.

The boy squirmed and yelled in pain but the nurses were not to be bothered, Mabel Senahey alleged.

I am challenging him [Dr Adusei] to use his leadership to take critical actions...I am saying this without prejudice that if the systems were put in place properly at the hospital, there shouldnt be any crisis to be calling for investigations now, Dr Benakuu said.

Also on the nightly current affairs programme was Christian Malm-Hesse, a private legal practitioner, who faulted parts of Dr Benakuu's submissions.

He said some of Dr Benkuu's comments ventured into the realm of speculation.

"As this borders much on legal matters, that is if they [hospital] will seek that arena, the speculations will not suffice," he said.

Watch a full episode of Thursday's show, hosted by Nana Ansah Kwao IV, below.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com
Distraction, detraction, bowel contraction, those are the words that best describe the mannerisms of a bunch of audacious liars hiding behind newsprint to slander the nation that has just received a major FREE SHS impetus in its drive towards perfection. We might never be perfect as a nation, but, certainly, the assumption of the reins of power by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was the glad tiding that heralded the new dawn; that era of a golden Midas touch, which is beginning to make Ghana Great Again.

Of course, Ghana is becoming great again after her reputation was dropped and forsaken in the gutters by the indolent NDC, headed by a dishonest president in the person of John Dramani Mahama and puerile loudmouth idiots as Fiifi Kwertey, Ofosu Kwakye, Murtala Mohammed, Mahama Ayariga, Asiedu Nketia, Omane Boamah etc, nation wreckers of unblessed memory. With the cover of filthy journalism spearheaded by newspapers only fit for wiping ass with, the NDC Party almost drove this country to the brinks of civil war until the good people of Ghana showed it the red card. This nation just would no longer entertain the recklessness of liars, practising the semblance of journalism, absolutely unspellable and a total apology of the trade they are shamefully tied to.

When we talk about family and friends, who better does the cap fit? Ibrahim Mahama, that shameful urchin, who people sought favour with because it was said that he held the keys to the juiciest contracts during the NDC regime was the erstwhile Presidents brother. Their sister was given massive contracts like the supply of brand new vehicles at exorbitantly abnormal prices, one of which was the Mitsubishi Pajero that was allegedly given to NPPs Bugri Naabu in the botched bribery attempt. The brothers of incompetent former president John Mahama were all given their portions as if Ghanas cake belonged to them.

Tony Lithur was made MD of Ghana Airports by John Mahama. Was the former not a friend and lawyer of the latter? Oye Lithur was made Minister for gender and womens affairs. Was she not the wife of the friend of John Mahama? Was Tony lithurs partner, Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong, not given the position of Attorney General and Minister for (in) Justice, because of Tony?

If you want to talk about rewarding amorous relationships, who would win a medal at that? John Mahama of the NDC of course! After all, it was said that he carried his manhood on his shoulder openly fishing for fattened behinds to shove it through. Was it not said that he rewarded Vickie Hamma for being such a wonderful romantic partner? Was it not said that his amorous relationship with Hanna Tetteh consolidated her position in government that she remained Foreign Minister until their disgraceful defeat at the polls? Was it not said that John Mahama only awarded Zeeta an ambassadorial position when she gave in to his advances at Peduase lodge? Was it not said that he romped Alban Bagbins secretary at the Parliament house? Was it not said that he gave the Smartys CEO, Juliet Ibrahim, a fat contract because he was banging her on table tops and tight corners?

Was it not John Mahama who rewarded useless ladies commensurately with their ability to twerk during electioneering campaigns? Pictures and videos were popping up everywhere on social media. He lowered the value of women by promoting sexist traditions in the midst of fools in the rank and file of the NDC party.

And the instances of such shameful shamelessness abound numerously, which were lucky to have dumped into the canister of history to rot and be spoken of as the most lewd and uninteresting times of Ghanas past? A past that was a reality, blighted and bastardised by thieves of the NDC in connivance with gangster newsprint media like the Palaver, a colossal source of lies and fabricator of shame!

So who is the Bokossa and Mobutu? Is it the impressive President Nana Addo, or the licentious character, Ex-President John Mahama?

Who is the Bokossa and Mobutu? President Akufo-Addo or John Mahama, who put all his family and friends in positions to milk the country dry? Lets say Nana Addo has, casually, given a family member a job, what is so wrong with that if the person qualifies? Besides, name the members! If he has a distant family member in one post or even one direct member in another, are those people not Ghanaian? At least he is entitled to one or two special cases, but he certainly will not go to the extremes that John Mahama went to, giving the cream to his family in order to create a dynasty that he hallucinates about.

But wait! Was it not the same empty braggarts that sought to spew unrestrained lies at anything and everything NPP during the excellent era of President John Agyekum Kufuor? Yes, it was! To post a few examples of the treacherous lies of the invidious charlatans behind this toilet paper newspaper, the following brief should vindicate my submissions herein:

May 14, 2006:

https://www.modernghana.com/news/34677/1/palaver-newspaper-under-attack.htm

May 13, 2006:

https://www.modernghana.com/news/99224/1/minister-denies-bribery-allegations.html

September 5, 2006:

http://allafrica.com/stories/200509070716.html

To the extent that the Embassy of Togo had to sound a warning to this stupid newspaper and stupider editor, is an indelible testimony to their falsehood and intentional acts of chicanery that is genetically hereditary of NDC dastards and cowards like those behind the Palaver liespaper. Instead of peddling lies to sabotage the excellent Free SHS, they should chastise Alhassan Suhyini of the NDC Minority in Parliament for openly calling Akans PIGS! Instead, they should be exposing John Mahama, who is said to be sponsoring an imminent demonstration in New York to the tune of approximately $75,000 (seventy-five thousand US Dollars) against President Akufo-Addo in a futile attempt to shoot down the great success chocked with the launch of the Free SHS and other initiatives. And he is being assisted by haters of Ghana like Lawrence Appiah and Atwima Mansah.

The Palaver toilet paper is peddling lies in a show of pure national betrayal, sell out, and lack of patriotism.
The Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, has asked heads of second cycle schools to visit the GES website and constantly update their lists of fresh students.

He said the heads should not depend on printouts of lists of students to turn away candidates who presented to them their admission letters even if their names were not on the document that had been printed out.

Some heads have been turning away prospective students and those already placed on the grounds that their names do not reflect in their system, Prof. Opoku-Amankwa told the Daily Graphic in an interview, adding that heads who were unsure of their admissions could easily verify from the GES website, since all the heads had access to the system.

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa was speaking at a press conference held on Friday in reaction to complaints that some heads of second cycle schools were turning away placed students on the grounds that such students did not have their names in their system.

www.cssps.gov.gh/shsheads

The director-general said heads of senior high schools (SHSs) could update their lists by logging onto the GES website, www.cssps.gov.gh/shsheads, to verify the status of prospective students.

Each head has been given a laptop with two loaded modems to facilitate this process.

If any head has a challenge with the system, he or she can always rely on teachers of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in their schools for assistance, Prof. Opoku-Amankwa said.

Training of heads and ICT teachers

The director-general said heads of schools had no excuse for going wrong because the GES had organised a training session for all heads and ICT teachers before the commencement of the placement system and it was expected that the latter would constantly get their heads of institutions updated on information on the website.

Under-declaration

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa said statistics available indicated that some heads of second cycle schools had under-declared the number of students they were to admit.

He added that some schools were offered admissions far below the numbers they received last year, yet they complained of lack of space.

We went through the list of students for schools that we have had complaints from and discovered that they have no basis for protesting, since they had admitted more students last year and have not come to us for resolution of any problems they may have encountered, he told journalists.

Aggrey Memorial and Mamfe Girls

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa cited Aggrey Memorial and Mamfe Girls SHSs as examples of schools that were offering admissions below their capacities.

For instance, he said, in 2014, Aggrey Memorial SHS admitted 1,118 students while in 2015 it admitted 820 students. In 2016, the school admitted 955 and this year, it was presented with 450 students, yet the headmaster complained of congestion.

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa said the Headmaster, Rev. Frankline K. Boadu, was invited to a meeting with the GES management yesterday to explain his position.

He added that though Rev. Boadu, after the meeting, apologised and had agreed to admit more students, the GES would nonetheless penalise him.

In the Mamfe Girls SHS case, Prof. Opoku-Amankwa said in 2016, the school admitted 900 students and this year the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) placed 770 students in the school, but the headmistress insisted that she could only take 400 students.

Placement so far

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa announced that out of the 424,000 qualified candidates that were earmarked to be placed in SHSs, 396,591 of them had visited the GES website and had printed their school admission letters.

He said on September 1, 2017 when the CSSPS released the initial list of candidates who had received placement in schools, 150,775 students who had qualified were not placed in any of their four choices of school and as such were granted the option to do self-placement.

About 84.5 per cent of those who placed themselves selected their own schools and have proceeded from that point, he said.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Dadieso in Western Region, Samuel Baah, has caused the arrest of a mathematics teacher at Dadieso Senior High School for charging unapproved fees.

Last week eleven Senior High School heads were sanctioned over a similar incident.

The accused, Akpor Adjei, is also reported to have been selling mathematical sets, sandals and other learning materials to parents.

Speaking to Joy News, the DCE said Mr Adjei's actions discouraged some students from reporting to class.

Somewhere Monday, the Dadieso Senior High School started admitting students, and we all aware that the [Free SHS] policy, which is ongoing, requires that monies should not be taken from students.

But somewhere Thursday, I started receiving complaints from students and parents that Dadieso Senior High School was taking money from them. So I became alarmed and the next day I went to the school and realised that that thing was true. So my checks from other parents proved that indeed such thing has happened...So I have caused the arrest of the teacher involved.

He himself has confirmed that he has taken some money but I am yet to know the exact [amount], he narrated the incident to Joy News.

However, Mr. Adjei says he was only assisting parents who could not easily get items such as the mathematical sets other learning materials to buy.

I dont see anything wrong with that... he defends.

Related: Akufo-Addo fulfils major campaign promise as free SHS starts today

Last Thursday, two headmasters were sacked after charging unapproved fees following government roll out of free Senior High School policy.

The headmaster of Pentecost SHS in the Eastern Region, Mr. Wisdom Blazu and Assistant headmaster of Daffour Senior High School, Rev S.P Eleworkor, were relieved of their posts by the Ghana Education Service (GES).

The Daffour headmaster S.C.K Agbeke is to be reprimanded for "poor supervision".

A total of nine others were interdicted, Director General of the Ghana Education Service, Professor Kwasi Opoku Amankwaah announced at a press conference Thursday.

The sanctions came after investigations into allegations of extortion against 19 school heads.

The interdicted persons include:

- Headmistress of Kwenyarko SHS, Mrs Florence Pra;

- Headmistress of Ahantaman SHS, Mrs Mercy Ocloo;

- Headmaster of Ekumfi Ameyaw SHS Techiman, Julian Okon and his Assistants Jacob Barzon and George Frimpong Kwarteng;

- Headmaster of Assiwa SHS, Christian Attram

- Headmaster of La Presbyterian SHS in the Greater Accra Region, Samuel Salamat;

- Head of Aggrey Memorial in the Central Region, Rev. Franklin K. Boadu has also been invited to Accra to explain why he has underdeclared but accuse GES of placing more students than his school can accomodate. The GES maintains the headmaster has "no basis for complaint" after 450 students were placed in his school.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com
The Association of Graduates in Skills Development-Ghana (AGSD-GH) commends the National Youth Authority (NYA) for planning a one day stakeholders dialogue on the theme GHANAS GREATEST ECONOMIC CHALLENGE. JOBS FOR THE YOUTH with 120 Chief Executive Officers (CEO) from the banking, mining, oil and gas, retail, telecommunication and pharmaceutical and health services sectors on September 20, 2017 at Alisa Hotel, Accra.

As an Association that is genuinely concerned about the plight of the unemployed, we cannot conceal our excitement about this event. AGSD-GH has a core mandate to help find practical solutions to unemployment with majority of our members nationwide either looking for an opportunity or struggling to sustain an opportunity. This move that aims to find lasting solutions to unemployment must be commended.

Unemployment rate among the youth keeps soaring and needs urgent attention. Therefore any move seeking to advocate for Corporate Ghana to direct its Corporate Social Responsibility into youth development activities is welcomes since it is in the interest of all youth groups.

While we commend the organisers, we also call on corporate organisations in Ghana to invest more now than they have done in the past towards the development of the youth who constitute majority of our active workforce. We must not risk the future of the youth. Unemployment remains a national security threat. We must find better alternatives for our youth.

We must reap from the investment we made into the lives of our youth. We must not allow our youth to be unproductive because they ought to contribute to national development.

We humbly request AngloGold Ashanti, KPMG and other corporate institutions to wholeheartedly support youth development initiatives by the National Youth Authority with the aim of helping develop our youth like they have done in South Africa with the South African Graduates Development Association (SAGDA) and elsewhere. The youth needs support to develop their skills and expand and implement ideas. The youth needs support to fund and shape ideas, the youth needs mentorship to update their skills. All this can be achieved with support from corporate organisations in Ghana.

Signed:

Desmond Bress-Biney

President

Association of Graduates in Skills-Development (AGSD-GH)
18.09.2017 LISTEN

A group calling itself, Young Cadres Association (YCA) has called on the ruling New Patrick Party (NPP) government to as matter of urgency scrap the BECE system done by the students at the Junior High Schools in Ghana.

In a press statement issued in Accra on September 16, 2017 and copied to the media stated that the BECE system has been the biggest stumbling block for most students who dream of progressing on the educational ladder and it would be a very important move to remove the impediment.

"Among other things, this removal will provide the opportunity for a large percentage of the country's young population to be educated as it would create a seamless transition from the JHS level to without any burden of examination."

The group commended President Akufo-Addo for the implementation of its campaign promise for students to enjoy free SHS education but made it clear that majority of Ghanaian students don't get chance to enter into secondary schools in the country because of the BECE system.

"It is estimated that around 40% of graduates from the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) fail to make it to the SHS level because they do not obtain the right grades. This is a big blot on the conscience of the state and it defeats any efforts and raising educational standards in the nation."

The group was on the view that the free SHS education program was started by former President John Mahama led NDC Administration and commended the former President for the implementation.

"We also do reckon that, the roll-out of this policy is birthed in the sound fundamental framework developed and implemented by the John Mahama government, which among other things, begun with the implementation of a Progressively' Free Senior High School' policy."

The group also joined the earlier call made by some civil society groups, political parties and influential personalities calling on the government to scrap the BECE.

Below is the full statement;

Scrap BECE to Give True Meaning to Free SHS  Young Cadres

President Akufo-Addo in fulfilment of one of his major campaign promises recently launched the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to make secondary education free and accessible to all who qualify. This is, without doubt, an ambitious move that is bound to raise educational standards in Ghana and improve the countrys human development index. Indeed, this is a political decision that must be commended by all well-meaning Ghanaians and we, the Young Cadres of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would like to thank His Excellency for keeping this promise.

We also do reckon that, the roll-out of this policy is birthed in the sound fundamental framework developed and implemented by the John Mahama government, which among other things, begun with the implementation of a Progressively Free Senior High School' policy. As a country in the burgeoning stages of its development, it is important that every elected government contributes in formulating and rolling out policies that will fast track the development process and help the country reach the utopia it dreams of.

Whereas we all do commend the President for embarking on this noble course, it is instructive to note that a large percentage of the countrys young workforce still do not get the chance to enter into the Senior High School system from the basic level. It is estimated that around 40% of graduates from the Basic Education Certificate Exams (BECE) fail to make it to the SHS level because they do not obtain the right grades. This is a big blot on the conscience of the state and it defeats any efforts and raising educational standards in the nation.

It is against this backdrop that we would want to add our voice to the numerous calls being made on government to consider scrapping the BECE if it really wants to make education free. We see the BECE as a hindrance to achieving a truly free education in Ghana. It is an open secret that the fundamental idea behind President Akufo Addos decision to make Senior High School education free is to build the human capital base of the country. If this is a fact, then there is really no need in restricting any child who aspires to acquire education in this country. BECE has been the biggest stumbling block for most students who dream of progressing on the educational ladder and it would be a very important move to remove this impediment. Among other things, this removal will provide the opportunity for a large percentage of the countrys young population to be educated as it would create a seamless transition from the JHS level into the SHS level without any burden of examination.

Already, influential institutions and personalities like Patrick Awuah of Ashesi University fame, Nana Bonsra Afriyie II, the Chief of Fomena in the Adansi North District of the Ashanti region, Dr Prince Armah, Executive Director of the Institute for Education Studies (formerly VIAM Africa), and the Progressive Peoples Party (PPP), among others, have all called for the scrapping of the BECE. We believe all these people and entities want the good of this country, just as the President and his government.

Although rolling out Free SHS is a good move, Mr. President, it is only after removing the dream-killer BECE would you be seen to have given a real meaning to Free SHS.

...Signed...

Michael Dery

President

Young Cadres Association

Bright Botchway

General Secretary

Young Cadres Association

Mubarak Watara

PRO YCA
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Accra, Sept. 15, GNA - ABii National Savings and Loans Limited, a non-bank financial services provider has organised a luncheon for some of its top customers in Accra.

The event was to show appreciation to the customers for their vital contributions; and to afford them the opportunity to interact with ABii National's Board, Management and Staff.

ABii National aims to become a first class universal bank of choice by deploying the best personnel and technology to deliver excellent banking services to all customers and increasing shareholders value.

Mr Noah Otuteye, the Acting Managing Director, said ABii National was barely four years old, and that they had been able to open eleven branches; all with the aim of serving customers better.

'At this luncheon, we want to thank you for keeping faith with us over the past four years. Although at that time, we were small, you had faith in us and you were ready to do business with us.

'So on behalf of our Board and Management, we want to thank you for having that confidence in us. When we were very small, and when we didn't have much name, you believed in us. So we say Ayekoo to all of you,' he added.

Mr Otuteye said: 'Going forward we want to also assure you that banking is a relationship. Some think that bankers are just there to make money out of customers. But to us, is the other way round. We want to grow with you, we want to build you'.

'One of the things we do not want to do is that we don't want to hear that through ABii National, someone's business had collapsed. God forbid that it should be said that through ABii National someone's business had collapsed. But we want to have testimonies that say that through ABii National, my company was GH50,000.00; today it is one million Ghana cedis.'

He said they would continue to entrench the relationship with their customers to make it better; so that in 40 or 50 years' time, those who would succeed the businesses would still have relationship with ABii National.

Mr Menson C. D. Torkornoo, Board Chairman ABii National, said it was a good thing for customers, Board Members, Management and Staff of ABii National to come together to know each other very well.

'The world has become a very small place, that is the reason why our world in ABii National is to make sure that we know our customers,' he said.

He said his doors were opened to all customers; and that anyone of them facing a challenge with ABii National would contact him for redress.
Accra, Sept. 15 - (UPI/GNA) - North Korea fired a ballistic missile from its capital city of Pyongyang, South Korean and Japanese officials said on Friday.

Reports of the fired missile prompted Japan to warn residents to take shelter, BBC News reported.

"North Korea fired an unidentified missile from near Sunan, Pyongyang, around 6:57 a.m. which flew over Japan to the North Pacific," the South Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Japanese news outlet NHK, said the missile fell into the Pacific Ocean about 1,242 miles off the cape of Erimo in Hokkaido.

A Japanese government spokesperson said no aircraft or ship was hit, and no debris had fallen.

According to the New York Times, White House officials were aware that the missile was being prepped days before it was launched but were not concerned and chose not to shoot it down.

"The North American Aerospace Defense Command determined this ballistic missile did not pose a threat to North America," said Cmdr. Dave Benham, a spokesman for United States Pacific Command.

Benham also said the missile "did not pose a threat to Guam."

Japan also chose not to shoot the missile down, despite warning people to take shelter inside or underground.

South Korean news agency Yonhap said the missile reached a height of 770 kilometers and distance of about 3,700 kilometers.

This is first missile launch from North Korea since the U.N. Security Council imposed new sanctions on the country.

GNA
Accra, Sept. 15 - (dpa/GNA) - The Metropolitan Police said on Friday that they are investigating a "terrorist incident" at the Parsons Green underground station in west London.

"The Met's Counter Terrorism Command is investigating after the incident at #Parsons Green tube station is declared a terrorist incident," police wrote on Twitter.

Police said, however, that it was "too early to confirm the cause of the fire."

The station has been cordoned off and train services have been suspended after the incident, which happened during rush hour. Police, ambulance and fire services rushed to the scene.

London Ambulance Service said they were called in at 8:20 am (0720 GMT). "We have sent multiple resources to the scene including single responders in cars, ambulance crews, incident response officers and our hazardous area response team," it said in a statement.

One passenger, who gave his name only as Lucas, told BBC 5 Live: "I heard a really loud explosion, when I looked back there appeared to be a bag but I don't if it's associated with the explosion.

"I saw people with minor injuries, burnings to the face, arms, legs, multiple casualties in that way," he said. "People were helping each other."

London's Metropolitan Police confirmed that they had received an emergency call this morning.

"Police were called at approx. 8:20am to #Parsons Green following reports of an incident on a tube train," they wrote on Twitter.

"We would advise people to avoid the area," they added.

"Our initial priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries," it continued, saying that more information would follow when they had it.

London Fire Brigade said that six fire engines, two fire rescue units and around 50 firefighters and specialist officers were in attendance at Parsons Green.

Transport for London said that services on the District line, which runs through the station, had been suspended and advised passengers to "replan their journeys."

The BBC had reported that there had been an "explosion" on a Tube train.

GNA
Hohoe, Sept 15, GNA - The world's six largest multilateral developments banks (MDBs) continued to make a strong contribution to the global climate challenge in 2016, increasing their climate financing in developing countries and emerging economies last year to US$27.4 billion from US$25 billion in 2015.

Of this amount, US$21.2 billion - or 77 per cent - was dedicated to climate mitigation finance, with the remaining 23 per cent devoted to climate adaptation, according to an AfDB release to the Ghana News Agency.

It said combined with additional co-financing from other investors, the total amount of finance mobilized for climate action reached US $65.3 billion last year.

The MDBs have reported jointly supported on climate finance since 2011. Collectively, the banks have committed over US $158 billion in climate finance during the past six years.

The latest MDB climate finance figures are detailed in the 2016 Joint Report on Multilateral Development Banks' Climate Finance.

The Report combines data from the African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank Group and the World Bank Group.

Broken down by region, the largest share of last year's MDB climate finance went to South Asia, with 20 per cent, followed by East Asia and the Pacific and non-EU Europe and Central Asia, with 19 and 18 per cent, respectively.

The Middle East and North Africa at 9 per cent and Sub-Saharan Africa at 7 per cent, receiving the least climate finance, despite being the regions to be most impacted by climate change - according to the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

This state of affairs contradicts the sense of urgency, which underlined the pledge by developed countries to commit US$100 billion per year of new and additional finance to assist developing countries to address adverse effects of climate change (which was further reinforced in the Paris Agreement).

Mr Anthiny Nyong, Director of Climate Change and Green Growth at the AfDB observed that "As we get closer to 2020, the global community needs to double efforts on pre-2020 ambitions on finance because these will determine the level of achievement of the post-2020 actions. Africa's Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) are largely conditional pledges."

The Bank has set up an Africa Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Hub to assist African countries to align their NDCs with national development plans; provide a platform for a concerted, targeted climate finance mobilization effort commensurate with the low carbon and climate resilient development pathway; and to rally, in a coordinated manner, all interested parties around a collaborative effort for NDC implementation across Africa.

Despite the shortfall they face in the receipt of needed climate finance, African nations continue to work to advance on their commitments to create sustainable societies built on climate-friendly energy and climate-resilient development solutions. Cognizant that the continent's development is intrinsically linked to how well it manages climate threats and opportunities, the AfDB remains committed to working with stakeholders in ensuring that Africa meets its Paris Agreement obligations.

'For its part, the African Development Bank has committed to allocating about 40 per cent of its project approvals across all sectors as climate finance by 2020. Our goal is to ensure Africa efficiently uses its resources both natural and human to safeguard the planet while improving the lives of all its people,' stated Amadou Hott, AfDB Vice-President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth.

The MDBs also reported again on climate finance according to financial instrument. The vast majority of finance, 73 per cent, was provided in the form of investment loans.

The methodologies for climate finance tracking align with the Common Principles for Climate Change Mitigation Finance Tracking, jointly agreed by the MDBs and the International Development Finance Club (IDFC) and first published in March 2015.

The MDBs and the IDFC agreed on the Common Principles for Climate Adaptation Finance Tracking in July 2015. The MDBs and the IDFC have started taking the next steps to harmonize their approaches in tracking adaptation finance.

The MDBs are continuing to work to update their joint tracking methodologies for mitigation and adaptation to support the goals of the Paris Agreement, playing a key role in defining the finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate resilient development.

By Maxwell Awumah
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Wa, Sept. 15, GNA - The Youth of Sombo in the Nadowli/Kaleo District has hailed Mr. Alban S.K. Bagbin, Member of Parliament for Nadowli/Kaleo Constituency for providing dedicated services to his constituents as a member of parliament.

They said Mr. Bagbin's stewardship as a Member of Parliament for the then Nadowli North, later Nadowli West and now Nadowli/Kaleo Constituency has brought immeasurable benefits, both physical and human to the people.

In a statement issued in Wa and signed by Mr. Thomas Ngminbahaara, Chairman of the Sombo Youth, the youth congratulated Mr. Bagbin on the occasion of his 60th Birthday Anniversary and his unbroken 25 years as a Member of Parliament for the constituency.

The youth said with the 25 unbroken years of dedicated and incomparable services rendered to the constituents, mother Ghana and humanity at large, they wished him well and so much more to achieve in the years ahead of him.

'Your uncompromising dedication to the people you represent, coupled with your compassion for the vulnerable and love of nation, have all won you the admiration and confidence of many at home and abroad.

'It is for this reason that your constituents found no compelling reason to replace you, but have persistently voted unfailingly for you seven consecutive times to represent them in Parliament in the Fourth Republican dispensation of our nation', the statement read.

The youth said they have always watched Mr. Bagbin in Parliament with pride and honour as he went about his work, radiating a superior understanding of Ghana's governance and legislative processes.

'Your unblemished commitment and diligence in discharging your responsibilities has perpetually kept you in the leadership of the legislative assembly as you currently occupy the 'big seat' of the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament', the youth said.

The youth of Sombo as well as the youth of the entire Nadowli/Kaleo Constituency reassured Mr. Bagbin of their unflinching support in the collective struggle to liberate the people from the shackles of poverty and social exclusion.

'We are inspired and much encouraged by your long years of sterling leadership, your front liner role as an active agent for development in our constituency, and as a long serving politician, who brings honour and dignity to our people', the statement read.

The statement wished Mr. Bagbin brighter times ahead, praying to God to give him strength when he felt weak, provide encouragement when he felt down-spirited, give him wisdom when challenged, support him when reviled, offer him divine protection, sound health and above all, a loving and supportive family, loyal comrades, appreciative citizens and the 'Solomonic wisdom' to chalk greater achievements.

The Nadowli/Kaleo Law Maker went to Parliament in 1993, headed several important committees, rose through the ranks in Parliament, became Minority Leader for eight consecutive years and Majority Leader in charge of government business, appointed as a Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing and Minister of Health and excelled in the all positions.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Accra, Sept. 15, GNA - The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) is expected to recruit 60,000 youth under various modules of the Agency by the middle of October as part of Government's efforts of solving the unemployment situation in the country.

Mr Ignatius Baffour Awuah, the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, who made this known at the swearing-in of a nine-member Governing Board of the Agency, in Accra, on Friday, said providing jobs for the unemployed youth was one of the top priorities of the Government.

He said the issue of youth unemployment had now moved from being a social and economic issue to a security threat, therefore, government would put in place pragmatic policies and programmes to resolve it.

'The issue of youth unemployment has moved from an issue of economic problem to a security threat as it happened in the Arab world, that is why the President thinks that, if there is any issue that government should pay much attention to, it is the issue of youth unemployment,' he emphasised.

Mr Baffour Awuah urged the Board to work as a team and support the Management of the Agency in resolving the unemployment situation because the destiny of the Government was tied to the provision of jobs to the majority of the youth.

Currently statistics from the Ghana Living Standard Survey released by the Ghana Statistical Service indicated that unemployment figures has moved from five to 12 per cent, he said.

Mr Samuel Awuku, the Chairperson of the Board, on behalf of his colleagues, expressed appreciation to the President for the confidence reposed in them and assured that, they would work assiduously to support government's job creation agenda.

He said the Board would undertake rebranding exercise to give the Agency a new corporate image in view of the corruption tag hanging on the neck of the institution like an albatross and help the Management to deliver on its mandate.

'The priority of the Board is to critically tackle the institutional corruption and rot that has become endemic in the YEA circle.

'As we're all aware, the challenges associated with youth unemployment and the earnest desire for the unemployed youth to heave a sigh of relief culminated in the resounding victory of the NPP, therefore as an employment Agency, we want to assure all stakeholders that we will complement the efforts of the President in delivering on his job creation agenda,' he assured.

Mr Awuku said it would offer fair job opportunities to all Ghanaian youth irrespective of one's political affiliation, religious or ethnic background.

The Board comprised Mr Justin Kodua Frimpong, the Chief Executive Officer of the YEA, Mr Bright Wireko-Brobbey, a Deputy Minister of the Employment and Labour Relations, Mr Eugene Narh Korletey, the Chief Labour Office and Mr Victor Donkor, of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

Others are; Mr Emmanuel Sin-Nyet Asigri, the Coordinator of the National Youth Authority, Mr James Osei Quarshie, Dr Kwame Amoako Tuffour and Nana Yaa Ansua, Queen mother of Drobo Traditional, were all nominated by the Minister onto the Board.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Accra, Sept. 15, GNA - A new organisation which aims to bring together businesses in Ghana and Ireland has been launched in Accra.

Business Ireland Ghana (BIG) is being set up at a time when trade between Ireland and Ghana is growing.

The organisation's members come from the established Irish business community in Ghana, companies in Ireland looking to expand into Ghana, and Ghanaian businesses with an interest in Ireland.

Launching Business Ireland Ghana, the Irish Ambassador to Ghana, Nigeria and ECOWAS, Sean Hoy, said that it was an exciting time to launch the network.

'This is about encouraging businesses and entrepreneurs in both Ghana and Ireland to explore the opportunities, especially at this time when the Ghanaian business community is more optimistic and the Irish government is looking to expand trade and open new markets,' he said.

We want to create a network that shares ideas and information, creates opportunities for partnerships and collaborations, and taps into the experience of those people and companies that have made a success of broadening their horizons across the continents. We have to think BIG,' he added.

The launch was attended by both Irish and Ghanaian businesses with an interest in forging links. The Head of the EU mission to Ghana, William Hanna, as well as representatives from the European Business Organisation, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre and Guinness Ghana were among several guests at the launch of BIG.

One of the founding members of BIG is PW MIL, a major player in the Ghana engineering and construction field.

PW has for many years worked in Ghana and West Africa in the area of Mining, Construction and Road projects. The Chief Executive of PW, who is also the Irish Honorary Consul to Ghana, stated that there is a small but growing Irish business community in Ghana and with the added spirit of Ghanaian entrepreneurship the network can grow and contribute to both economies.

On the educational front, relations between Ireland and Ghana have a long history. Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah appointed an Irishman, Conor Cruise-O'Brien, as chancellor of the University of Ghana (UG) in 1962.

In 2015, the first MOU between an Irish University and a Ghanaian university was signed when the University of Limerick and UG formalized their exchange and scholarship programme.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Accra, Sept 15, GNA - A nine Member Board for the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) has been inaugurated in Accra.

The Board is under the Chairmanship of Mr Kabral Blay-Amihere, a former diplomat and also a former Chairman of the National Media Commission.

Members include Mr Jonathan Amoako-Baah, the Chief Executive Officer of GRIDCO and Nana Henry Kofi Nti, a traditional ruler.

The rest are Madam Dzifa Amegashie, Mr Kenneth Kwamina Thompson, Mr Nicholas Kwabena Smart-Yeboah, Air-Vice Marshal I. S. Kadri (retired), Naana Eyiah and Mr Frederick Fredua Antoh.

The GRIDCo was established in accordance with the Energy Commission Act, 1997 (Act 541) and the Volta River Development (Amendment) Act, 2005 Act 692, which provides for the establishment and exclusive operation of the National Interconnected Transmission System by an independent Utility and the separation of the transmission functions of the Volta River Authority from its other activities within the framework of the Power Sector Reforms.

Mr William Owuraku-Aidoo, Deputy Minister of Energy, in-charge of Power, in his address tasked the new board of directors of GRIDCo to work together with Management to turn the fortunes of the nation's flagship Company around for the enhancement of the power sub-sector.

He said the President wants to see high performing organisations in the power sector; therefore, it was the responsibility of the Board to support it to develop long- term plans and deploy resources for the effective management of its potentials and threats.

He said GRIDCo had performed very well in its formative years within the electricity production value-chain.

He explained that, as a result of the build-up of receivables and a high level of cross indebtedness within the sector, it had found it very difficult to pursue most of the projects it is implementing to get the grid closer to the load centres.

'One main task, which is quite urgent is to see the establishment of the Wholesale Electricity Market, which in my opinion, will drive down tariffs and give comfort to customers and make us competitive in the sub-region through the West African Power System,' he stated.

Mr Owuraku-Aidoo said GRIDCo had potential for additional revenue for the releasing of its excess fibre optic network and maintenance of their capacitors, transformers and other switchyard equipment.

Mr Blay-Amihere on behalf of his colleague Board Members expressed gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the confidence reposed in them.

He said the Board would ensure that GRIDco played its part as a major cog in the energy sector, to let all the light shine in our homes, factories, offices, schools, farms and wherever light was needed, in collaboration with other players; both private and state in the sector.

Mr Asamoah Boateng, the Chairman of the State Enterprises Commission congratulated members of the Board upon their assumption of office.

He said the Commission would be organising training programmes for Boards and Managements of state enterprises on best international corporate governance practices and financial reporting and its analysis.

Mr Lawrence Apalse, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Energy, lauded GRIDCo for being the state flagship Company in the energy sector.

Mrs Anita Lokko, Deputy Director, Legal Department of the Ministry of Energy, administered the oath of Office and Secrecy to members of the GRIDCo Board.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Amansie West of the Ashanti region, William Bediako Asante, has urged Muslim leaders in his area to take advantage of agricultural initiatives under the NPP governments landmark project, Planting For Food & Jobs.

According to him, Planting For Food & Jobs was the only way to ensure food security as well as creating jobs.

He said a lot initiatives had been outlined under the project and urged the team to identify their areas of interest and start working towards it.

The DCE made the call when a delegation of Muslim leaders in his district paid a courtesy call on him in his office last week.

Hon. William Bediako Asante also hinted that government has plans to intensify the mass Cocoa spraying exercise to benefit Cocoa famers.

We have taken delivery of some of the chemicals and we shall move round to embark on the mass spraying of cocoa farms. I am here because of youso should you encounter any problem, please come to me. Dont go to the media or anybody else but me since I represent government here, the Amansie West DCE stated.

Touching on One-District One-Factory, he assured the Muslim delegation that his doors are always opened to investors who wish to establish factories or any job creation project that will benefit the people in his region.

Hon. William Bediako Asante further assured the team of governments readiness to rehabilitate major roads in the district to enhance productivity and development.
Africa is resplendent with varieties of delicious, mouth-watering cuisines to enjoy. Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency, shares 4 best foods to eat when in Africa.

Pounded Yam and Egusi

This is a Nigerian delicacy that mainly comprises pounded yam (as the name already implies) and vegetable leaf soup thickened with ground melon seeds, seasoned and garnished with assorted meat, fish or chicken. Egusi soup can also be eaten with other dishes like amala and eba (dried grated cassava flour mixed with hot water and stirred into a firm dough).

Braai/Shisa Nyama

This is a very popular meal in South Africa and is largely considered a part of the South African eating experience. This meal largely consists of barbecued meat and is usually accompanied with maize porridge (Pap en Vleis) and a cold glass of beer. The barbecued meat usually comprises of beef, chicken, pork, lamb or sausages.

Alloco

This meal is largely associated with the Ivorians. Its a fried plantain snack thats often served with chilli pepper and onions, or egg and tomato sauce. Its quite easy to prepare and is popular for its unique taste. The meal is widely served as a fast-food thats readily available on the streets of Cote dIvoire, and food vendors that are known for alloco commonly go by the name, allocodromo.

Piri Piri Chicken

This is a spicy Mozambique dish with a rich blend of African, Portuguese, Oriental and Arab flavours. Its believed to have been created in Angola and Mozambique when Portuguese settlers arrived with 'chile' pepper. It is generally known as 'grilled chicken piri piri' by tourists, and is commonly served with matapa, a dish of cassava leaves cooked in peanut sauce.
The Founder/President of African Youth for Progress(NGO), who is also a firebrand of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), David Kankam Boadu, has revealed that he has a number of strategies as the next NPP National Chairman to bury the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and keep them in opposition forever.

According to him, if elected as the NPP national chairman at congress in 2018, that would mark the end of the NDC since he is coming to introduce massive economic empowerment initiatives at the grassroot and urged delegates to vote for him.

He indicated that the NPP under his chairmanship would run the party as a charity organization with one aim which is to help the people on the grounds.

He said he has plans to build an NPP Bank nationwide with branches across the country to give financial support to people who need money to run their businesses.

David Kankam Boadu, who is passionate about the poor conditions of the NPP grassroot, said his style of administration as the chairman would make a strong case for the grassroot and ensure party supporters have better economic lives.

He said there is a trend that has to change in Ghana, adding that the party moves forward after elections leaving the grassroot and those who suffered behind.

Mr. Boadu said the grassroot people are those that should benefit from party politics and not those politicians driving big flashy V-8 cars, who dont have the people at heart.

Mr. Boadu was speaking in an exclusive interview with ModernGhana over the weekend.

When asked whether he could man affairs of the party with no experience in holding any national executive position within the NPP, he argued that leadership is inbuilt and born-with.

"It is not about the experience that I have got, I was born a leader. That is why it is because of my leadership qualities that I have strategized. I have noticed what problems we have and with my strategy I am now ready to execute the plan.

This plan is going to engage and focus on the main group who make up the NPP party; call them footsoldiers or the grassroot. From where I am coming from we were all grassroot before we got to where we are. This is a phenomenon I am going to change as the national chairman of the NPP. If you leave the grassroot behind that means we are leaving the party behind.

He went on to add that his style of leadership would be to cut the party office away from the presidency where all administrative issues would be executed by the party executives and not the presidency as being witnessed today.

He said governance structure should be totally different from the party structure.

Mr. Boadu is seeking to make the party office the mother of the party separated away from the presidency.

David Kankam Boadu is one of the Nephews of NPP founding father, Prof. Kofi Abrefa Busia.

He is also one of the heirs to throne of the Asafo Royal Stool.

He disclosed that the United Party (UP) started in his Grandfather's house, the Asafo Chief, Nana Kofi Amoateng's House in Kumasi, Asafo.

I have always been a backbencher and a king maker. As you are all aware I was also with Alhaji Aliu Mahama and I was one of the leading campaign men. I was in the frontline supporting Alhaji Aliu's bid to become President during the Delegates Congress in 2007.

Talk about those who formed the Non-Alliance Movement in the United Kingdom, my Father Dickson Kankam Boadu and his team Nana JH Mensah my father's friends Comrade Asabre, Kojo Smith, Danso Bruce, R.O Frimpong Manso. I was there when we formed the Non Alliance Movement to enforce democracy in Ghana and we succeeded by enforcing democracy on Jerry John Rawlings. During the political turmoil, when Nana JH Mensah was arrested in America, I was there, when he was released I was there. We organised a big party for him.

Mr. Boadu is a founder member of the Ghana Democratic Movement (GDM) in the United Kingdom and was very much involved in the NPP UK.

He is also the founder of NPP Milton Keynes until 2006 when he returned to Ghana.
News about the death of a ten year-old boy at the Tema General Hospital through an overdose of a medicinal drug last week demands a probe into the avoidable fatality.

The circumstances of the boy's death as contained in a news story in the DAILY GUIDE in our edition of Friday September, 15, 2017 is most reprehensible and calls for a high-level investigation by independent pharmacists and doctors outside the health facility where the alleged overdose and subsequent fatality took place.

Considering the last words from the dying boy we are left with no doubt in our minds that he could have become delirious through possible overdose as being alleged.

The heart of a mother has been broken and would take a long time to mend. The occurrence is also an indication that the dosage of drugs administered to us when we are ill or when we take to self-medication can be fatal when not done professionally by persons who understand drugs.

We are also worried that it is likely that there have been similar instances of fatalities as a result of wrong dosages or even incompatibility of drugs across the country.

It is even more worrying and scary that this incident occurred in a government health facility where, by and large, best practices are expected to be the norm.

We share the grief of the parents of the little boy even as we pray that they would be imbued with the fortitude to bear the loss brought upon them through drug abuse, as it were ironically, at the hands of professionals who should have known better.

We do not intend jumping the gun and would prefer waiting for the outcome of the investigations necessary to isolate the real cause of death.

If indeed a reckless administration of the drug in question is established as the cause of death, the necessary sanctions should be applied to prevent a recurrence. It would also be important that the hospital authorities, indeed, the Health Ministry go beyond the subject in question to find out how drugs have been dispensed to patients over the past few years.

This case must not be swept under the carpet. To ensure a transparent process, we would rather independent professionals from another health facility with a representative of the Health Ministry take up this issue.

With the integrity of the health facility and delivery system in general impugned by this occurrence, a lot needs to be done to restore the lost confidence in the Tema General Hospital.

Only God knows how many fatalities have occurred through such recklessness especially since we are in a country where patients can hardly pose questions to doctors or nurses about medications being administered to them and even reactions to drugs.

This is an opportunity for us to find out more about drug administration and how to make it possible for patients to talk to their doctors without apprehension of being scolded unnecessarily.
Country Director of the World Bank, Dr Henry G. R. Kerali, has called on civil engineers to institute sanctions regime for engineers and contractors whose actions lead to poor infrastructure delivery.

Dr Kerali made the call when he delivered a speech as the Special Guest of honour at the Civil Engineering Conference & Exhibition held on Thursday at the Engineers Centre, Roman Ridge, Accra.

Speaking under the theme: Regulating Civil Engineering Practice for Effective Delivery, Mr Kerali quizzed: What happens when a building collapses? Who bears the ultimate responsibility?

According to him, it was still not clear to him the sanctions regime for engineers and contractors whose actions lead to poor infrastructure delivery.

It is also not clear to me whether the delivery by professional practice is evaluated. Is professional misconduct an issue, and if it is, how are practitioners held liable?

I am not advocating witch-hunting, or a drive to deprive professionals of their livelihood. To the contrary, I believe that Ghana Institution of Engineers (GhIE) needs to establish auditing systems that help to prevent mistakes before they happen, Dr Kerali said.

Ing Carlien Bou-Chedid, President of GhIE, who chaired the occasion, reminded the engineers of the new law, the Engineering Council Act 819, which required that all engineering practitioners register either as a professional engineer, engineering technologies practitioner, engineering technician or engineering craftsman.

Each one of these practitioners is essential in the engineering practice with different strength and capabilities that work together as a team in the engineering field, the GhIE President added.

Chairman of the Civil Technical Division of the Ghana Institute of Engineers (GhiE), Ing. Joseph Oddei, on his part, thanked the exhibitors and partners for exhibiting their state-of-the-art equipment and products to the admiration of the participants.

We are privileged to have Cad Consult Ghana, Zwalum-Den Braven Sealants, METRISYS, Ghana Re, Africa Navigation Technologies, Geo-Tech Systems and GHACEM, displaying their quality products to the participants, Ing. Oddei said.

A cutting-edge presentation on the functions of the Engineering Council was made to participants by the Registrar of the Council, Wise Ametefe.

A business desk report
The much trumpeted NPP flagship policy of free Secondary School Education was launched last week. Foe me, it is a very laudable initiative and I commend the Akufo Addo led government for having the balls to begin the process of implementing this concept.

Before I carry on, may I point out to the readership that free SHS is not a new idea. In the days of our first president, Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah of blessed memory, the CPP government had a comprehensive education programme that included free education from primary school to university and part of university fees were subsidized by the Nkrumah led CPP government.

This initiative by Nkrumah made Ghana one of the most educated populations in the world and Ghana had by far the best education system in Afrika.

Sadly after the CIA orchestrated coup of 1966, subsequent governments abandoned the idea of free comprehensive education including free SHS and allowed market forces to rule the roost as far as the provision of education was concerned .

As s result Ghana saw the explosion of private SHS schools in the country as subsequent governments post 1966 failed in their responsibility to provide free education and adequate resources for the masses of the people.

In principle the free SHS is a brilliant concept because it allows ALL children whatever their background equal opportunity to access education and in Afrika where often times girl children are often overlooked, free SHS is a necessity.

Now there are some commentators in Ghana including members of the opposition who cast doubt on the ability of the government to pay for free SHS.

The reality is that YES Ghana can afford the free SHS education programme. Why do I say this?? Well let me cite the following cases of corruption:

In the 2015 Auditor Generals report that over US$1.2 Billion was stolen by government officials as a result of mass corruption,

In a feature that appeared in Ghana web stated that Ghana lost in 2016 US$7 Billion in illegal mining by Chinese and Indian nationals.

There was the US$7 million that was lost due to sabotage relating to the fire at the Central Medical Store.

In 2014 the CEO of the State Transport Company (STC) allegedly took a US$30 million loan from SSNIT to buy a fleet of buses for the company  to date STC are unable to account for this loan or even the buses that were supposed to have been bought

In addition to this another reason why Ghana can afford the free SHS is our resources. Ghana has Gold, Diamonds, Timber, Oil and many many other precious resources.

However at the moment Ghana is not benefitting from these resources in terms of the royalties and taxation it is getting from these resources.

For example Ghana only receives a pathetic 3% royalty rate despite nearly a million ounces of gold mined in 2016 and the price for gold is at least US$1,100 an ounce.

In terms of oil Ghana also receives only 13% of oil the revenue proceeds that come from oil receipts despite more than 200,000 barrels of oil a day being pumped from the various oil wells in the country.

Therefore if the Government of Ghana can re-negotiate these gold and oil contracts as the current government of Tanzania under the leadership of John Magufuli is doing then Ghana will earn a lot more revenue from its resources and will be more than capable of paying for the free SHS education policy.

Also if the government of Ghana can prosecute and retrieve ALL the billions of Ghana cedis in wicked acts of corruption then Ghana will have all the money it needs to fund the free SHS.

Education is a right and not a privilege and so it is essential for national development and social cohesion that ALL children in Ghana are given the opportunity of going to secondary school.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of the Pentecost Senior High School (SHS) in Koforidua in the Eastern region, has mounted defence for their dismissed headteacher, Wisdom Blazu.

According to the PTA Chairman, Nicholas Folie Mensah, the school sought clearance from the Ghana Education Service (GES) before levying the students.

Mr. Blazu together with an Assistant headteacher at Daffour Senior High School, Rev S.P Eleworkor were relieved of their posts by the GES for defying governments Free SHS policy by charging illegal fees from students.

They are to be demoted and reassigned back to the classroom to teach. Nine others were interdicted, Director General of GES, Professor Kwasi Opoku Amankwaah announced at a press conference last week.

Speaking Monday on the Super Morning Show on Joy FM, however, Folie Mensah said the school acted upon a letter of approval they received from the GES in January well as an assurance by a GES representative to levy the students for the 2017/18 academic year.

A letter was sent to the GES and they approved [GH40] while a District Director also told them at a Board meeting that the GH40 that we are taking, we can continue, the PTA Chairman explained.

Meanwhile, private legal practitioner, Yaw Oppong has faulted the Ghana Education Service after it sacked two the headteachers.

Speaking on Newsfile on Joy FM/MultiTV's JOYNEWS channel over the weekend, the law lecturer with the Central University argued that the decision by the GES Council to sack two school heads and interdicting nine others, may have breached GES Act 506.

He said Act 506 requires that a disciplinary committee is set up to deal with allegations of wrongdoing.

"There is no evidence that the Disciplinary Committee invited these people to be charged...and given adequate opportunity to be heard," he said.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Jerry Tsatro Mordy | Email: [email protected], Twitter: @jerrymordy
Maiduguri (Nigeria) (AFP) - At least 44 people have now died in a cholera outbreak in northeast Nigeria, the United Nations said Monday, calling for nearly $10 million to keep the disease from spreading.

"To date, the outbreak has claimed at least 44 lives, out of close to 2,300 confirmed and/or suspected cases," the world body said in a statement.

About $9.9 million (8.3 million euros) is needed as part of the relief effort, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said.

The first cholera case was identified in Borno State on August 16 and has since spread, mainly in camps for those displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency.

Water-borne diseases are a constant threat because of a lack of adequate sanitation as well as stagnant groundwater during the current rainy season.

The agency's deputy humanitarian coordinator for Nigeria, Peter Lundberg, said that despite new treatment centres and sanitation measures, more needed to be done.

"The camps for displaced persons are congested, there is not enough water, sanitation facilities are poor, and the health care system is weak," he said.

"We must tackle this urgently to avoid preventable suffering and loss of life."

Additional funding would help to implement a cholera response and prevention plan in the coming months, including providing access to clean water and a vaccination programme.

Northeast Nigeria is already in the grip of a humanitarian crisis caused by the Boko Haram insurgency, which has killed at least 20,000 people and displaced more than 2.6 million.

The UN's head of humanitarian affairs and emergency relief, Mark Lowcock, said last week that the threat of famine caused by the conflict's impact on farming had been averted.

But 8.5 million people in the northeast, out of 17 million in the wider Lake Chad region comprising Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Niger, needed humanitarian assistance, he said.
Angry parents of some graduates of the Presbyterian Experimental Junior High School in Tamale, who sat for last years Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), are threatening to sue the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for withholding their results.

They today (Monday) picketed at the Tamale Metropolitan directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES) and petitioned the Director there.

They further petitioned WAEC to solve the problem by the close of September 2017 or face a legal action.

We expect our problem to be solved at least by 30th of September because we dont want our children to be late reporting to school.

The 19 students whose fate is hanging in the balance, had aggregate 10, 11 and 12 respectively, for which reason their parents are traumatized by the hiccup.

They missed the free Senior High School placements opportunity because WAEC is withholding their results claiming that they engaged in examination malpractices particularly the Mathematics paper.

The livid parents spokesperson, Abdulai Freeman Baba, told Citi News that WAEC has unfairly treated their children, hence their threat to seek legal redress.

Exams council is unfair with us because they served us a letter late asking us to explain why our childrens results should not be withheld.

They gave us only one week to respond. We quickly wrote a letter and forwarded it to them. After that, instead of the initial directive that the results were withheld, it was now written that cancelled, which meant they had already taken a firm decision.
The Turkish government has donated 30 Mercedes 34-seater refurbished buses to the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

The buses were donated based on a promise by the Turkish government in March 2016 to help the public transport sector in Ghana.

The presentation which was made by the Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Nesrin Bayazit to the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Hajia Alima Mahama was seen as a sign of deepening the relationship between Ghana and Turkey.

The minister in showing gratitude pledged that these buses would definitely be put to good use and every region in Ghana would have a feel of it.

She also used the opportunity to hint the Turkish government about Ghana's intention to learn a thing or two about their decentralization structure.

The president has said that he wants to deepen our decentralization process through election of our mayors, municipal and district chief executives, we could learn how it is done in Turkey, she indicated

Ismail Hakki Turunc, the special advisor to the Mayor of the Istanbul Metropolitan municipality stated that Turkey held its friendship with Ghana very dear and would help Ghana improve in its city management, especially in waste management and the provision of clean water, he intimated.
THE KWABENA Nketia Centre for Africana Studies of the African University College of Communications (AUCC) will on Wednesday hold a festival to celebrate the 96 years achievement of Emeritus Professor Kwabena Nketia at the Banquet Hall of the State House, from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

Under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, the event will seek to unpack and memorialize the scholarly contributions of Professor Kwabena Nketia in the fields of African culture, history, language, music and dance, as well as their holistic cross-cultural relevance and global import.

The celebration will also be used to fundraise GH500,000 through donations, sale of books, sale of portraits of Emeritus Professor Nketia, individual and corporate donations and sponsorships.

The fund raising is aimed at expanding the African Library facilities at Kwabena Nketia Center for Africana Studies: collate, digitize, and preserve his numerous archival files and field notes on Ghanaian culture, history, language, arts, material culture, etc. assemble and digitize his 80 Classical African Music Albums: and to disseminate his works to empower Ghanaians to use them as vessels of national consciousness and conscientization.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, will be the Special Guest of Honour for the celebrations while former Presidents J.J. Rawlings, J.A. Kufour and John Dramani Mahama will be Special Guests.

Other invited guests include Members of the Council of State, National House of Chiefs, Chiefs from the Ga State, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, Chief Justice, Members of the Judiciary, Vice-Chancellors, UTAG and Africana Studies Departments of Ghanaian Universities.

Also invited are the Christian Council of Ghana, Muslim Council, Methodist Church, Presbyterian Church, Catholic Bishops Conference, Ghana Pentecostal Council, E.P. Church of Ghana, Ghana Journalists Association, MUSIGA, Association of Ghana Industries, Ghana Association of Bankers, National Insurance Commission, Ambassadors of Foreign Missions, Academics, and other important personalities.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mad. Catherine Afeku, will deliver an address while the Founder of the African University College of Communications, Mr. Kojo Yankah, will deliver special remarks.

Chairman for the occasion is Prof. Kofi Asare Opoku, Former Director of the Kwabena Nketia Center of Africana Studies.

Professor Kwabena Akurang-Parry, the current Director of the Kwabena Nketia Center of Africana Studies will give an overview of the festival.

Performing at the occasion would be the Immigration Band, Classical Music Group led by Andrew Agyemfra-Tete, Traditional Music and Dance Group, Harmonious Choir, Ghana Dance Ensemble, and Agya Koo Nimo, among others.
Inmates of the Kumasi Central Prisons that engage in sodomy are unusually beaten by their angry colleagues severely, DAILY GUIDE has gathered.

The gay inmates are usually saved by alert prison officers.

Supt Cephas Nuwordu, Officer in-charge of Kumasi Central Prisons Infirmary, who made disclosure, said some of the beatings are very serious.

There are reports that sodomy is very common in most prison facilities, not only in Ghana but the world over.

In some instances, it is alleged that strong inmates forcibly have anal sex with the weak inmates against their will.

Sodomy Banned

Supt Nuwordu told the media that the Kumasi Central Prisons frowns on sodomy.

There are some instances whereby some of the inmates try in vain to have anal sex in the prisons. In all those instances, the suspects are spotted on time by their angry colleagues who unleash mayhem on them, he disclosed.

Supt Nuwordu said they usually beat the suspects to the pulp and they are usually saved by the officers.

This came to light when the Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, Eugene Boakye Antwi, toured the Kumasi Central Prisons on Friday morning.

The minister, who is also the MP for Subin, also donated food items such as rice, cooking oil and sugar to the inmates.

Anti-Sodomy Team

Supt Nuwordu said the management of the Kumasi Central Prisons abhors the practice of sodomy in the facility so they have implemented strategies to fight it.

According to him, an anti-sodomy team, which is made up of prisoners, had been formed to stop the practice.

We have formed the Cell Police, whose main duties are to ensure that acts such as sodomy and other illegal acts do not happen in the facility.

The Cell Police, Supt Nuwordu, said keeps an eagle eye on all the inmates and they quickly raise alarm when they see people engage in sodomy and other bad things.

The Kumasi Central Prisons Infirmary boss noted that the formation of the Cell Police has ensured the maintenance of law and order in the prisons.
The Convention Peoples Party says government's proposal to make August 4, the country's Founders' Day is a deliberate ploy to protect the ancestry of the President.

The party said it was not surprised by the announcement because President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has demonstrated his readiness to alter Ghanas history to favour his family since he was sworn in on January 7.

CPP Communications Director, Abdul Kadri Rauf told Joy News Monday, arguments put out in support of the August 4 Founders Day proposal, are lame and completely flawed.

To the President, this is not about the history of Ghana...it is about his ancestry, he said.

President Akufo-Addo is expected to make a legislative proposal to Parliament in the coming days, making August 4, the nations Founders Day.

August 4, 1947, was the day the countrys first political party, United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), was formed at Saltpond in the Central Region.

A Flagstaff House communication over the weekend deplored the unnecessary controversy that continues to surround the history of events leading to Ghanas Independence on March 6, 1957.

It is clear that successive generations of Ghanaians made vital contributions to the liberation of our country from imperialism and colonialism, the statement said.

As part of the legislative proposal, the September 21 currently marked as Founders Day would be Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day if Parliament endorses the plan.

Flagstaff House has explained the changes would be done to commemorate the outstanding role the countrys first President played towards independence.

It is entirely appropriate that we commemorate him for that role, by designating his birthday as the permanent day of his remembrance, the statement added.

But CPP said contrary to claims by the government, the President has no interest in correcting the history of Ghana.

It is about protecting President Akufo-Addo's family lineage, the Nkrumahist party said.

Mr Kadri Rauf said UGCC founders, which include the Presidents father, Edward Akufo-Addo, and uncle, Dr. J.B Danquah, do not deserve any holiday because their actions would have delayed the countrys independence.

UGCCs self-government within the shortest possible time was the same understanding in South Africa, which led to their independence in 1993, he said.

He believes there cannot be any founders. We have only one founder, he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines (GCM), Sulemana Koney has called on government to remove the taxes on companies that engage in exploration in the mining industry.

He indicated that government must abolish the Value Added Tax (VAT) on drilling and laboratory services to attract local and foreign investors in order to grow the mining sector which contributes about 16prcent of all GRA collections in 2016 amounting to 1.64 billion.

Mr. Koney stressed that those killer taxes are crowding out businesses and reducing investor confidence in the mining industry.

The CEO said this at the Journalist for Business Advocacys (JBA) Annual Media Interaction with the Chamber organized by the group in Accra under the theme, Deepening the Integration of the Mining Industry into the Non-mineral Economy.

Government must tone down on taxes on mining exploration in the country. One challenge we are heddle with is that government must reduce the cost of induced barriers to exploration to increase investment in the mining sector which defines the future of the industry, he stated.

According to him, the state is losing a lot of investment opportunities in the sector despite the advocacy to remove the VAT adding that the move will open up the system more broadly for local and international participation to maximize more revenue for the country.

He emphasized that government should provide room by removing VAT charges on expenditure items such as drilling and laboratory services in the 2018 budget to reduce the barriers in the mining industry.

Mr. Koney intimated that mining is about development and not just revenue indicating government must leverage the mining industry for broad based socio-economic development through the optimal harnessing of opportunities in its value chain.

He added that the country must connect the dots of the mining industry to the rest of the economy or players by undertaking a value chain approach such that we can harness the potential benefits in every phase of the industry.

According, government must take steps in optimizing and developing relationships with entrepreneurs to look into other productive areas in the industry.

Gold contributes 97.33percent share of the total mineral revenue but it is not good to put all your eggs in one basket. The chamber is taking steps into the development of other areas in the sector. It is therefore important for us to work together in West Africa to reposition ourselves for the numerous benefits in the mining industry, he posited.

Mr. Koney indicated that government has recently taken the step to invest in local production of Caustic Soda which can also be used for manufacturing of detergents, soaps, treating water adding that 16million dollars went in the procurement of caustic soda last year.

He called for local capacity building to take up the opportunities in the various value chain businesses in order to provide goods and services that are usually imported into country.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

Accra, Sept.15, GNA - The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has made a proposal to government to levy tobacco and alcohol to fund the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

According to the Authority, the proposal is one of the options of finding additional sources of funding to sustain the NHIS policy, since the 2.5 per cent NHIS levy collected under the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the 2.5 percentage Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) contributions appears to be adequate.

Dr Samuel Annor, Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA made this known when he appeared before Public Account Committee (PAC) to respond to some violations contained in the 2015 Auditor General's Report in relation to the National Health Insurance Scheme.

The PAC is currently holding public sittings on the Report of the Auditor General for the Public Accounts of Ghana for the year ended 31st December, 2015.

Dr Annor also explained that the reason for the suggestion to tax alcohol and tobacco is borne out of the fact that the nation is likely to spend more in treating people with alcohol and tobacco related illness thus affecting the programme.

He said providing additional source of funding to sustain the programme would go a long way to end the cycle of indebtedness of the NHIS to its service providers.

Dr Annor also acknowledged that confidence in the NHIS was waning as a result of gradual decline in the renewal of the cards over the last two years, saying that, it is a great source of concern.

He explained that the number of subscribers to the scheme reduced from 11.3million in 2015 to 11 million in 2016.

He said the refusal by service providers to give quality care to clients due to high levels of indebtedness is to be blamed for the decline.

Dr Annor however noted that, over the last three months, there has been some improvement in the number of subscribers to the scheme and expressed the hope that the increase would continue for sometime to come.

GNA
Accra, Sept. 17, GNA - The Ministry of Trade and Industry in collaboration with Millennium Excellence Foundation has instituted a biannual Ghana Business Expatriates Awards to honour expatriates businesses for their immense contribution to the development of the economy.

The Awards is in recognition of the contribution of expatriates towards economic growth and foreign direct investments into the country.

Mr Alan Kyerematen, the Minister of Trade and Industry, speaking at the launch of the awards, said government's priority is to make Ghana the most attractive investment destination in Africa.

He said government has established measures that would continue to create a congenial environment for the development and growth of business in Ghana.

'Ghana used to be one of the top performing countries on the 10 indicators of Doing Business Index of the World Market, but unfortunately we have slipped back so badly that we are now 108 on this index.

'We have a comprehensive programme for improving the business regulatory environment and one of this is to take action and implement reforms in the 10 indicators of Doing Business Index of the World Market to move from where we are to occupy the first position", Mr Kyerematen said.

He said government would also introduce an electronic register of business regulations, procedures and processes to document all regulations pertaining to businesses.

'We will also make sure that every department of the agency has a Regulatory Impact Assessment Programme to measure potential impacts of reforms on industries before adding to the register, to improve business activities'', Mr Kyerematen said.

Mr Carl Richards, the Director of Millennium Excellence Foundation, said the awards would celebrate the enormous contributions of the expatriate community.

Mr Ashok Mohanani, the Executive Director of Poly Group of Companies in Ghana, speaking on behalf of the expatriate community, commended the organisers of the awards for the initiative.

He extolled Ghana for sustaining its political stability for companies to thrive.

The maiden award is expected to take place in October 2017.

GNA

By Kwamina Tandoh/William Fiabu, GNA
Yendi (NR), Sept. 17 GNA - The Members of the Yendi Catholic Church have organized a special church service at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes at Yendi to give praise and thanks to God for His care for the nation.

They also prayed for the President, political leaders, the security, the judiciary, the media, traditional leaders amongst others.

In a sermon Most Reverend Vincent Sowah Boi-Nai, the Catholic Bishop of Yendi, called on all in responsible positions, particularly political leaders to be open to genuine criticism, accept their mistakes and make the necessary efforts towards nation building.

He said it is in this way all will be united in their efforts to defend the democratic dispensation and forge ahead and forget their political differences.

Bishop Boi-Nai said we should be reminded of the warning of Prophet Ezekiel who warns his contemporaries that if they failed to correct their fellow brothers and sisters when they do wrong they become guilty of the person's sin.

He said correcting the person is not to bring the fellow down instead it is to help the person to turn away from their evil ways and be converted to the Lord.

Bishop Boi-Nai said how they can really love their neighbour when they fail to point their errors to them.

He appealed to Ghanaians to be open in genuine corrections in their pilgrimage towards the Kingdom of God and this should be done in the spirit of love, humanity and sincerity.

Bishop Boi-Nai said the love of one's neighbour involves demands which challenges their apathy and their desire to avoid problems.

He said the theme of the service: 'Responsibility for other people in the communities in which they live' is very appropriate and called on all Christians to live exemplary lives of love which requires us to pay attention to another member's errors.

Bishop Boi-Nai used the occasion to appeal to all the church members to join him in thanking God for His Graces showers upon him during the past 40 years he served in His vineyard.

GNA
One of the means of identifying peoples motives and thought patterns in relation to a statement made is by making a critical appreciation of the statement in the language in which it was made.

The African language is laden with proverbs which communicate the beliefs, intentions, and desires of the people as of the time the statement was made.

The purpose of such lasting proverbs and sayings is always to serve as perpetual admonition and guidance for future generations. The tree, as translated in Twi (dua) has been used in several proverbs to communicate a particular thought; and one of these is the desire of our forefathers to communicate to posterity the need to prepare for Pension: for a better future when retirement sets in.

Our forefathers knew that there would come a time when the body would be tired: the knees would be weak, the legs couldnt carry them far as they used to when they were energetic, the soul would be begging for rest. In view of this, they made the statement: Se wo pe dua pa atena ase wo nkwakora bre mu a wo dua no wo mmrante bre mu. This is translated as: if you want a good tree that will provide you a comfortable shade, you plant it in your youthful days. What this means is that the tree takes many years to grow before it can give one shelter or shade. By this statement, our forefathers prepared our minds towards the need to make provision for our future. And to them, as could be deduced from the proverb, a persons future settlement should be one of rest, warmth and good quality.

At this juncture, I would use the Oral Tradition behind the naming of Koforidua, where I was born and bred, and still harbour fond memory of, to explain Pension and elucidate its importance as dreamt of by our forefathers and the framers of todays Pension policies.

Oral tradition has it that, as I learnt from many sources, Koforidua owes its name to a man called Kofi Ofori. Kofi Ofori had built his hut under a huge mahogany tree. As the narration goes from Henry Amo Mensah, Koforidua Experience, This tree provided shelter for weary farmers who were returning from their farms after a hard days work and over time it became common for the farmers to say that they were going to rest under Kofi Oforis tree. The local language name for a Tree in Twi is dua and so, as the Oral Tradition goes, the amalgamation of Kofi Oforis name and the Twi name of the tree (dua) birthed the name and town Koforidua.

Today, Koforidua is known to be one of the towns that give livelihood to many people and also contributes significantly to the economy of the country and the whole world at large. If we are to go by the Oral Tradition regarding how Koforidua came about, then we would say that a tree that was planted many years ago has birthed a town and has given joy and meaning to many lives. Today, Koforidua boasts of, among others, schools such as Pope John Secondary School and Junior Seminary, Koforidua Polytechnic, and a university, All Nations University, which is doing amazingly well. We can also make reference to hospitals, tourism sites, industries, etc. A tree that was grown so many years ago provided the umbrella for a town and also offered hope to many Ghanaians. There are great lessons to be learned from this oral tradition regarding the importance of Pensions.

From the Oral tradition in relation to the naming of Koforidua, we get to know that: the tree provided shelter for weary farmers who were returning from their farms after a hard days work. In effect, a society must make provision for its future after all the struggles, here and there. This calls for a well-thought-out pension plan.

Investopedia explains a Pension Plan as a retirement plan that requires an employer to make contributions into a pool of funds set aside to for a workers future benefit. The pool of funds is invested on the employee's behalf, and the earnings on the investments generate income to the worker upon retirement. Luckily, today, the need for a pension plan has been expanded into the informal sector. This explains the importance attached to the need for a country to secure the future of its people. Any nation that fails to put in measures to cater for the needs of the aged in society will not only increase the burden of its limited workforce but will also be seen as not having planned its life well.

However, citizens of many countries have not been seen to have attached much significance to the necessity for a Pension Plan. Many of their subjects are either skeptical, not properly informed about the need to go for the plan or do not have access to the service at all. The sad part is that in many developing countries, you would see their old men and women at the roadside pursuing menial jobs that their weak bones cannot aid them to do. It is needless to stress that, at a certain period in a mans life, the bones get weak and must be rested. This, however, does not occur most often in our part of the world as no plan is put in place at the time it matters most. One can only have a good rest only when the person planted a tree, like Kofi Ofori did, to provide a good place for shelter in future.

Life is becoming extremely difficult for young men and women who start life from a humble beginning and have to take care of their immediate families (husband or wife and children) and also their parents, as their parents may not have anything to live on, because, for whatever reasons, the parents could not make provision for a better future. There is nothing more joyous and fulfilling for a young man or woman to complete school, access a job and be able to cater for the needs of their parents. However, the same practice becomes hell and daunting for young men and women who are willing but do not have the means to fulfill same. Many families and marriages are not at peace because of these occurrences, as it is becoming a norm that children are educated or taken care of in life so as to take care of their parents in their(parents) old age. Sometimes, same conditions compel young men and women to engage in acts that are corrupt to satisfy these needs.

Yes, our environment will be a place to dream of and live a good life if the subject of Pension is taken seriously. Parents are after all required to leave an inheritance (in whatever form), as the Good Book puts it. Like Kofi Ofori did, this could only be achieved only when the tree is planted at the appropriate time and nurtured properly. Kofi Oforis tree (dua), which birthed Koforidua, has given us schools, hospitals, shelter, tourism sites, jobs. In the same way, the decision we take today will give us the power to not only cater for our needs in future but also provide for the needs of our kids and our grandchildren. We will be able to take care of their education, hospital as well as their housing needs.

As I indicated earlier, luckily, the present pension plan offers an opportunity for workers in both the formal and informal sector of the economy. There is, therefore, the need for us to participate fully in any efforts that secure our retirement needs of which pension plans play a significant role. When one goes for a pension plan, one does so, not only for oneself but also for the family, town, nation and the entire world as one is secured such that one can provide for oneself and also ceases to become a burden on society.

Because tomorrow is unknown, let us plan today in respect of how we can fund our health, educational and housing needs, such that, when in future, our bones and knees inform us that they can no longer offer us the usual support to carry on the usual work we do, we can fall on the effort we put in place when we were strong to carry us through the rest of life. When you and I go to Koforidua, tomorrow, we will have a place to lay our heads; we will have a place for health check-ups; we will have a school for our children and grandchildren to attend because of the tree Kofi Ofori planted which laid the foundation for the town Koforidua. Lets plant our tree today, and tomorrow, we will have shelter and rest after the long years of hard work.
The African Risk Capacity (ARC) has launched a comprehensive, integrated Africas own sovereign insurance product to protect vulnerable populations from outbreaks and epidemics such as drought and floods for Ghana and other African states by 2019.

ARC upon request by Ghana and other African Ministers of Finance, who showed interest has decided to create an insurance product capable of financing efforts to contain outbreaks in Africa, so that problems can be confronted before it reaches a devastating scale.

The threat of outbreaks and epidemics (O&E) of infectious diseases like Ebola and Marburg poses an increasing danger to the health of African people, as well as to the continents security, economies and political and public order. Africa continues to be a continent severely at risk.

It is against this background that ARC intends to build a customized response system for each country that joins the program, providing home-grown, rapid, and precise service capable of saving lives and protecting the livelihoods of millions of people across the continent.

In its three years of operation, the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Insurance Company Limited has paid out more than US$34 million to countries affected by drought assisting 2.1 million people.

In 2015, there countries in the Sahel-Mauritania, Niger and Senegal received a US$26.3 million payout from ARC Limited following a significant rainfall deficit. These countries paid a premium of US$8 million for their drought insurance coverage.

ARC is now using its experience to help tackle another of the continents great threats by creating outbreak and epidemic (O&E) insurance.

Speaking at a news conference in Accra, the Lead Advisor Outbreak and Epidemic, ARC, Robert Kwame deGraft Agyarko said ARC plays an important role in responding to countries needs at times of crisis by providing fast access to funding for pre-agreed-upon, rapid response plans developed in conjunction with governments.

What we provide is insurance for outbreaks and epidemics or insurance for disaster risk management. In addition to the insurance there are other methods or channels that these disasters are supported. So if we do not have insurance on the market it does not mean that if something is happening in the world no one will pay attention to it, he noted.

Mr. Agyarko posited that they have a timeline of 18months to finish the project which will go through three strong stages.

The first is the post benefit analysis which looks at costing epidemics and giving economic argument as to why it is important to insure and intervene very early with Ministers of Finance. The second aspect is the risk profiling where we have to select the pathogens that are going to be insured after which a contingency plan will be a response plan that is agreed upon form when the disaster happens in order to be addressed. The next component is indexing and modeling for insurance and finally meet with the reinsurers and the market to agree whether this is a product they will want to put money down for, he stated

ARC works with countries to reduce the risk of loss and damage caused by extreme weather events affecting Africas populations by providing sovereign disaster risk insurance and other support, including capacity building, contingency planning, and access to early-warning technology.

It was established in 2012 as a Specialised Agency of the African Union (AU) to help Member States better plan, prepare and respond to weather-related disasters.

This launch of the program brought together experts, officials and government ministers from across Africa to build the core foundations for the project, including establishing parameters to determine which disease pathogens should be covered under the insurance.
The rate, with which a section of the media and the security agencies are hyping many damages of human lives and property against the IPOB, can be measured with a parameter that they (media and security agencies) supposedly have an ulterior motive: To label the South-East geo-pol zone as a chaotic and terroristic area.

After the alleged brush at Oyigbo, Rivers State, Sep. 12 2017, by the IPOB and Hausa residents in the area, the media have been making the old eastern region to look like a war thorn area. And the frolicsome but dangerous data that are being filed by the media and the security agents are mountaining against ala-Igbo, waiting for the Federal Government to unleash mayhem in the area, with a view that the old eastern region is a security threat to the country.

Some of us are reading the seemingly hazardous plan to massacre Ndigbo in no other place but in ala-Igbo and by extension, those in the South-South by the authorities, if the deadly proposal aimed at extirpating Ndigbo is not nipped in the bud urgently. If Ndigbo do not take their time and raise their voice and also maintain internal security against these ugly media orchestrations aimed at bringing them to the world as a problematic people, the world will buy into their (media and authorities) lies and think that IPOB is a violent group and Ndigbo, a knotty race.

No doubt, there have been some avoidable clashes in some parts of ala-Igbo in the recent times. The sad thing is that the security agents are saying that they were caused by the IPOD. Through their propaganda machine, we are yet to read from the military saying that they have killed any person since the impasse. What we have been reading from their propaganda mill is that IPOB did this or that, but the military is innocent? Hooey!Its sad that what the military did was to give IPOB a bad name in order to hang the members without a fair hearing. And you wonder where the freedom of speech which the IPOB Nnamdi Kalu was using to actualize the Sovereign State of Biafra is.

The mockery is that before the IPOB could say Jack Robinson on what happened, the Military HQs had characterized the non-violent group by terrorist group. Before the IPOB could say Tamuno, the South-East Governors Forum had shamefacedly proscribed the group.

Notwithstanding, the problem now is not with the IPOB but with those in authorities calling the shots and over the entire safety of the Igbo. With the heavy presence of the military at all positions in ala-Igbo, shows that something threatening is fishy, which the authorities would not want Ndigbo and the international community to know, till they perchance perfect their plan.

The authorities make the whole thing look like there is a great animosity that Ndigbo have for the Hausa/Fulani. Since the uproar in Oyigbo, you wake up each day to hear that this number or the other number of Hausa/Fulani has been killed in so and so places in ala-Igbo. Against this influence, you wonder where the Hausa/Fulani alleged corpses are and where the amplifying incidents are taking place.

This may not be far from the planned ways by the authorities to label Ndigbo as antagonistic under the President Muhammadu Buhari presidency  a president who loves ruling his country from the air  travelling on every minute and to a point, an air of uncertainty surrounds his whereabouts. The authorities presume they have succeeded by proscribing IPOB and no one stands stoical to rebuff them in a strong non-violent manner. However, if Ndigbo do not take their stand and urgently say no to the powers that be  that Ndigbo are not Hausa/Fulani enemies  alas.

Remember that Ndigbo were brazenly slaughtered in their own land in the Fulani herdsmen incursion of Ukpabi, Nimbo, in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, in the early of hours of April 25, 2016, and up till date, the odiferous air surrounding that occurrence cannot be purified. Today, we are listening in the news of police vehicles being burnt in ala-Igbo here and there and you wonder whos burning them. There is always an enemy within!

As it stands, it behooves all Igbo sons and daughters to read the handwriting on the wall: Ndigbo do not need a soothsayer to understand that there is a faultily genocidal air dangling in ala-Igbo to weaken the power of Ndigbo. They should not fold their hands and only continue to proscribe their non-violent own. The next line of action the proponents of ala-Igbo must fall would be to attack military formations, government property, inter alia, and label them the act of IPOB. The apparent planned skirmish is that Ndigbo might wake up soonest in the East, instead of seeing the Rising Sun; they will see their racing sons and daughters, all taking cover for their dear lives. In that stead, the Federal Government or their secret agents would be shooting-at-sight in ala-Igbo and over 2million people could be massacred.

Odimegwu Onwumere is a Rivers State based Poet, Writer and Media Consultant. Tel: +2348032552855.
The Listening Platform for NPP, has commended president Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo Addo and the Minister of energy, Hon. Boakye Agyarko for ending the erratic power supply which rocked the country during the NDC era.

The group is pro New Patriotic Party and aims at preaching the good deeds of the party to Ghanaians especially those in the rural areas.

Mr. Alpha Asamoah, the Leading Servant of the group praised the NPP government for the achievement, adding that, the NDC administration wasted a huge amount of money on energy but couldnt end the power crisis whiles the NPP in Less than a year in office have ended dumsor.

dumsor collapsed many business increasing unemployment in the country but thanks be to God that we have a president called Nana Addo and his able Ministers who have made dumsor a thing of the past, he stressed.

Mr. Alpha believes there is few hitch at the electricity company of Ghana and is optimistic that under the leadership of President Nana Addo, Ghana will reach a stage where nobody will remember that there was something called dumsor in the country.

Now everybody is happy wherever you go, everybody in rejoicing and saying; Nana well done, he stated.

Speaking to Otec FM, Mr. Alpha Asamoah expressed optimism that the setting up of the office of the special prosecutor will help sanction corrupt government officials in the country.
18.09.2017 LISTEN

At the time there is stern condemnation of the activities of Boko Haram in the north east and the Kaduna killings in the northwest of Nigeria, the Southeast has swallowed the bait set for it by its enemies. O how impatient is this set of people who are dexterously creative but full of acclaimed common sense! How have the Ibo allowed themselves to undermine the political scheming that has almost given them the presidency of Nigeria  which is actually all they clamour for  come 2023.

Why should the Ibo be like the proverbial tortoise who took the challenge of living in the sewage pit (tempting condition) for seven days, only to give up after the sixth and half days? Must we continue bargain for political compensation or relevance through violence in this modern age? No one, I repeat that no one amongst the Nigerian politicians of today can stick to his words and hand over the presidency to the Ibo except President Muhammadu Buhari because he is a man of integrity and a man to trust worldwide. But that must be through an acceptable national election. With this ugly development that the Ibo have allowed themselves into, who will trust them? They are creating more uncertainties over this goal they have been striking to score for nearly 50 years.

I must say this without fear; it is only President Buhari who can tolerate all these distractions. The history holds is clear that if these were to be during the era of former President Obasanjo, the story would have been different. I rate Obasanjo very high in the area of ensuring unity of Nigeria, the supremacy of national constituted authority and the ability of the national security apparatuses. Though that was the new democratic era, who dared Obasanjos democracy? Odi, Zaki Biam and the untouchable members of the National Assembly  the saints  had no guts to dare Obasanjo who only applied the stick and carrot measure in dealing with the Niger Delta militants because of national huge investments and interests.

Have we forgotten the plots  even attacks on his personal car in Kaduna  to kill Buhari before the 2015 elections? Have we forgotten the highly staged hate speech and campaign of calumny against Buhari by the power that was throughout the electioneering campaign period? The Igbo declared him persona non granta in Igboland ever since he indicated interest to run for the presidency, not because of Buharis insincerity, untrustworthiness or incapability. It was because of the old and reverberating innuendo that a Muslim President of Nigeria will Islamize Nigeria. Buhari won the election and believe me, all his defiant enemies are freely moving within Nigeria and abroad.

Recall that many Nigerian pessimists had planned mass exodus to seek exile in different countries. The Nigerian security operatives had made moves to restrict external movements of this set of people. But surprisingly, President Buhari ordered free movement of any citizen, irrespective of backgrounds. So, why the Ibo have remained with this feeling against Buhari is inexplicable in the modern age where freedom of religion is a global phenomenon.

There are still speculations that the Boko Haram is a creation of both Nigerian and non-Nigerian hands. The byword that a thief does not operation in an area without an insider is relevant. Some critics have claimed that Boko Haram was primarily staged to destroy the north by reducing the population its prides over and destabilizing its rising economy. It was also claimed that the past government wanted to use it to stage-manage the past general reelections in its favour.

No wonder, up till today, despite the revelations by the past government that Boko Haram are in the government, no single person has been convicted for the death and destruction of lives of innocent Nigerian citizens and their properties in the northeast. I think only the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Engr. David Lawal Babashair received the hammer as he was deposed for allegedly using over N200 million to cut grass at IDP camps in Yobe. I think that Yobe farmers who clear hectares of farmlands every farming season must have been shocked by this, not to talk of the displaced citizens who were supposed to be resettled with the huge amount. His sacking may, however like ever, be his only punishment.

And in Kaduna, like in other parts of the north where the killings of Nigerians were recorded, the primary claim was that the Christians were targeted. Just like the political Boko Haram started with the burning of Churches in the north, it turned out to be that more Muslims and their Mosques were destroyed. University of Maiduguri and its Mosque are case study of recent Boko Haram carnage. Interestingly, some of the arrested Boko Haram members, in the past, had the Christian cross on them and some confessed to have been hired by yet undisclosed entities. Now, the political gangsters in Igboland have started burning Mosques and conducting door-to-door and vehicle-to-vehicle manhunt of Muslims for killing, an indication that the IPOB has more religious instinct than political. That the IPOB members are killing only Muslims, not the northern Christians living in the Southeast, is a disturbing revelation. It may not be far from the truth also that some Muslims may have been hired by the IPOB for their interest. That is by the way.

The Ibo saw all these. They heard all these. I feel the Ibo have not learnt their lessons. Before the 1967 civil war that crushed the economic powers of the Ibo in Nigeria, the Ibo were lords in all the major cities of Nigeria: Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano and more. They excelled and still excel without the political leadership they claim is their problem. The progress of a people invariably attracts the envy of others who would plot dangerously for the fall of the prosperous people. Take an instance in a family or a community or any given place; the prosperous have the greatest enemies. Do not mind the fake smile on the faces of human beings. With all these progress and dominance, the Ibo with the common sense that is difficult to understand by other humans coexisting with them cheapishly allowed themselves to swallow the first bait. They lost everything by that mistake. But being very hard working people, they regained some of their lost economic strength and relevance within the shortest time.

Now Nnamdi Kanu came to the scene. The Kanus IPOB said Nigeria is a zoo and must be destroyed. This is a bad qualification that can be given to a sovereign nation. They declared anybody an enemy who stood against their demand to breakup Nigeria. Kanu began to set up Biafra security agencies. Kanu declared that election will not hold in the Southeast zone starting from Anambra state because it belonged to Biafra. These actions were absolutely tantamount to crossing the boundary. There was no limit for Kanu. He disregarded all persuasions from the Ibo leaders: the political, the religious and the traditional alike. He condemned and called them cowards and infidels. Even Kanus father and family members were proud of him. Haba! Where are our parental civility and upbringings? Proud of a son who disrespects and insults elders! The whole world saw it all. And Nigeria allowed him to fill his cup by himself. Video clips are there as evidences of the evil plots and activities by Kanu.

Many people do not understand what IPOB really represents. Unlike the Niger Delta militants who, though were not agitating for secession, had a cause and properly utilized the media through one Cynthia Whyte to be heard, the IPOB dangled from agitation for restructuring to the call for referendum to secede from Nigeria. There are several groups countering themselves without distinct direct and clear demand. IPOB claims to be a peaceful movement but it recruited the youngsters by force into its fold like the Boko Haram did. Can the Nigerian youth learn anything from these events?

What is the cause of IPOB? Claiming marginalization is what every ethnic group in Nigeria is claiming and that is no more a valid point. Former President Goodluck Azikiwe Jonathan gave the Ibo all the powers to turn Igbland into a haven for development and competitive economy. Claiming Islamization of Nigeria is a tale of the yore which appeals to very insignificant interests. I think it is the only claim the Ibo have found so dear to their hearts. It was the strong base upon which late Emeka Odimegwu Ojukwu declared war against Nigeria, that is to say, declared secession. That has remained the problem of the Ibo that a global religion  Islam  cannot stay in Igboland. Claiming political alienation is close to an understandable cause but what have the Ibo done to sell their dream to other existing nationalities in Nigeria. They have proved to sell one another at every given political alignment?

That has been the Ibos quagmire. They work for other groups to clinch the presidency and allow the selfish politicians amongst them to destroy their future by unwittingly causing chaos if the position will elude them. Instead of coming together  remember that the Ibo have no king or leader  they allow others to play the tune for them to dance naked in the public. Instead of blaming themselves for their own political woes, they remain unchanged each time a political dispensation comes.

The Ibo have allowed themselves to be stained once again; this time in the hand of Nnamdi Kanu who preached peace and unity of Nigeria during the past administration of Dr. Jonathan just to suddenly turnover to preach hatred, rancour and violence in the zoo that he called Nigeria. Kanu, from the onset, did not hide his hatred against Islam and Muslims. He totally professed Judaism, not the Christianity that the Southeast prides itself of. But so far it is not Islam, they accepted him because any religion including paganism can be tolerated in the zone except Islam. It is still in memory that a Jewish priest was required to perfect his bail conditions.

Kanu spread hate speeches without boundaries. When we speak, the zoo trembles, that is what happens when a cattle rearing terrorist and paedophile is your ruler, he repeated in many occasions. Nigeria is a zoo and everybody living in that Godforsaken zoo deserves to dieby the time we finish dealing with the animals in the zoo, there will be none left to tell the story. These are the mildest statements from the IPOB self acclaimed hero. For God sake, are these supposed to be words from a same human being whose people have made great fortunes from across the zoo?

Kanu was charged to court on treasonable accusations. He was released on bail with pressure and pleadings from Southeast governors and political leaders who made a commitment that he would not abuse his bail conditions. He violated all his bail conditions and turned himself into a small Igbo god  maybe amadioha - worshipped by the less-privileged of the Igbo and secretly supported by a handful of the privileged with alleged foreign links. Now that the chips are down, the Igbo god hitherto abruptly could not save himself. Heroes do not go underground at the advent of a confrontation with the powers they face. He has left his followers who were earlier warned on the consequence to suffer. It is clear that his bail sureties should be called to account for him.

Nonetheless, there is no immediate uncontrollable cause for an emergency declaration in Abia state. The state governor, though belated, has shown ability to subdue the situation by cooperating with the Nigerian troops. And until the area is back to full normalcy, withdrawal of soldiers from the state and its neighbourhoods will be immature because the IPOB has taken advantage of the situation to unleash mayhem on innocent citizens. The governors and elite of the region, though belated too, have disassociated themselves from Kanu and IPOB. Kanus actions have stained any genuine agitation the Ibo may claim, thus the declaration of IPOB as a terrorist organization.

Peace and security must not be compromised in any form in Nigeria. Out gallant military are up to the task of securing all the Nigerian territory. I am proud of them. I hail the north for not carrying out reprisal attacks; the some northern youths dressed in Ibo attires to express unity of the peoples of Nigeria. I equally applaud the customs service which must work harder to also block arms dealings across our land borders. Those who are behind the seized arms from the Lagos sea ports must be disgraced publicly rather than secret trials. Nigeria has the potentials of being a competing economy of the world if not because of these badly internalized distractions. But what will keep all these blessed backgrounds: ethno-religious, socio-cultural and political groups together is the duo of fairness to all and the political will to act decisively on the economy to provide shelter, ensure security and bring food on the tables of all the Nigerian people. That is exactly what the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is trying to do. The Ibo should give him the chance.

Let the python dance tactfully, steadily and intelligently and swallow all the animals that say woe to law-abiding patriots anywhere in the zone. Let the eke dance further to unveil all the links Kanu has within Nigeria and outside the shore of the country. All the privileged Nigerians who have been sympathizing with his mission are not hidden. And all Nigerians must distil their minds from ethnocentric politicization of national issues. Rather, they must rise together at all times against any attempt to cause another civil war.

Muhammad Ajah is an advocate of humanity, peace and good governance in Abuja. E-mail [email protected]
H.E. Lawyer Nii Ayikoi Otto Ghanas high commissioner to Canada is posed to strengthen and uphold the friendly relationship and corporation between the government of Ghana and the Canadian government as he assume office as the new high commissioner under H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo led administration.

H.E. Lawyer Nii Ayikoi Otto one of the finest legal luminary in modern day Ghana is keen and willing to liaise with the Canadian government in areas such as education, agriculture, health, vocational training, cultural exchange program as well as women empowerment.

This was made know when H.E. Lawyer Nii Ayikoi Otto presents his credence to the Governor General of Canada as new high commissioner for Ghana under NPP government.

The formal attorney general under president Kuffour administration express joy and ecstasy as he assure the Canadian government of great partnership between Ghana and Canada with more emphasis on one district; one factory initiative.

H.E. Lawyer Nii Ayikoi Otto promise the Ghanaian community of his strong cooperation and collaboration in all areas of skills development and advise Ghanaians and investor to visit the commission regular in order to see the latest opportunities and areas to invest in Ghana as the heart of African.
Women have been advised to know how much they are worth and place a value on their life.

The way you conduct yourself will determine how people treat you in your relationships, life and even at the workplace.

Every woman needs to know her worth and to act in such a way that it is apparent to everybody else. If you carry yourself in a certain way, then people will treat you accordingly.

These were the words of Radio and TV Personality, Nana Yaa Boamponsem Ameyaw on Homebase TVs Morning Show Eboboba on Friday, September 9th 2017.

Nana Yaa Boamponsem said women especially the young ones must know who they are , flaws and all, and stand firmly in that truth.

Boamponsem who sounded very passionate was commenting on Afia Schwarzeneggers naked video leakage.

You should love yourself! You should kick people to the curb when they treat you like crap. You should believe that you are worth more than some crappy situation that is less than what you hoped for in life.

Nana Yaa Boamponsem was however not happy with the fact that people are condemning her (Afia Schwarzeneggerr ) just because they do not like her.

Afia Schwarzeneggers husband, a former bouncer was arrested and detained by the Achimota police after an official complaint was lodged by the Television Personality who claimed she was assaulted.

In relation to this, Lawrence Abrokwah, husband of Ghanaian Comedienne, Afia Schwarzenegger has officially been charged with assault, publication of indecent material and threat of harm.

Meanwhile lawyer, Maurice Ampaw has denied being the source of the leaked tape that captured Afia Schwarzenegger in bed with another man.
'The big truck is still on ...
President Donald Trump View Photos

President Trump delivered his Weekly Address and was KVMLs Monday Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words:

My fellow Americans,

I would like to begin by continuing to send our prayers to all of those affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. From Texas to Louisiana to Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, we are coordinating closely with local authorities to help everyone impacted by these catastrophic storms. When Americans are in need, America pulls together. And we will not rest until everyone is safe, sound, and secure. We will be there tomorrow and the day after, as we work to respond, recover, and rebuild.

When Americans are united, no force on earth can break us apart.

This week, the United States celebrates the 230th Anniversary of the signing of our remarkable Constitution.

The fifty-five Delegates to the Grand Convention in Philadelphia met from May to September of 1787. They gave us an incredible gift: a vision of the sovereign and self-governing people to control their own affairs. And they gave us a Constitutional system that protected our liberties by enshrining the Rule of Law.

Patriots like Washington, Madison, Hamilton, Franklin, and so many others had already achieved immortality through their victory in the Revolution. But soon after, these extraordinary leaders faced another task unlike any otherthe task of building a brand new nation. So they designed a system of government, rooted in common laws, history, and traditions that would secure the liberty, equality, and rights they had fought for and fought to defend in the American Revolution.

The Framers of our Constitution triumphantly declared to whom the government of the United States belonged: it was WE THE PEOPLE. These three beautiful words are among the most important ideas in our nations history: the idea that governments power is vested in the nations citizens  the people to whom we owe our ultimate and sacred allegiance. Our soldiers fight and die to protect our citizens, and our government is forever duty bound to safeguard their sovereignty and their freedom.

For 230 years, we have governed ourselves and planned our own destiny, guarded all the way by the Constitution of the United States.

On this Sunday, Constitution Day, let us recommit ourselves to our Founding Principles, and rededicate ourselves to our glorious heritage. We have inherited a birthright of freedom  we must defend it dearly, protect it jealously, and promote it proudly, as one nation under God. We must rise to the task of self-governance, prove worthy of the sacrifices made to carve out this magnificent nation, and we must give our loyalty to our Republic and its citizens in all that we do.

So let us pledge allegiance to our flag, devote our hearts to our country, and demonstrate our love for one anotheras Americans, as Patriots, and as the children of God.

Thank you.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.
Belgium is situated in Western Europe and is one of the smallest countries on the continent. And yet, there are a lot of reasons to visit Belgium. You can fall in love with the local cuisine, including Belgian waffles, fries and beer. But the biggest reason to travel to Belgium is the local architecture. Every big city in Belgium is a separate thing of beauty with picturesque streets and dozens of historical landmarks. Weve prepared a list of cities in Belgium that you must visit.

List of biggest cities in Belgium  Top 5

1. City of Brussels

Population: 1,019,000

Brussels is the biggest city in Belgium by population and perhaps the most interesting and beautiful one. The town, which began its existence as a fortress, went through different stages of development in its existence. It is considered to be the capital of Flanders, Belgium, and even Europe.

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels is the cobbled medieval-styled main square  Grand-Palace. Among dozens of impressive buildings, you can also find the flower market. It fills the streets with a variety of bright colours and smells. Once every two years, in the middle of August, the square is also decorated with thousands of begonia flowers that create a unique, gigantic floral carpet. While youre here, you should also visit the Gothic Town Hall, which was constructed back in the 14th century.

Whenever you happen to be in Brussels, you have to visit the City Museum, also known as the Kings House due to its royally astonishing look. If you want to enjoy a calm, relaxing day, take a stroll through the Heysel Park and Atomium. The Atomium is an enormous, more than a hundred meters in height, model of an atom made out of metal.

Other places of attraction in Brussels include:

Manneken-Pis

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Mini-Europe

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Royal Museum of Fine Arts

2. Antwerp

Population: 459,000

Antwerp is the second biggest city in Belgium, and also the countrys largest port. Due to the historical significance of this city, its atmosphere portrays power and wealth. Antwerp is called the diamond capital of the world. That is because the diamond mining industry has always been the backbone of the citys economy.

As we already mentioned, Belgium is most known for its beautiful buildings and cathedrals. Your first stop should be the Antwerp Central Station. This structure possesses an awe-inspiring gothic exterior, and the look of the main hall will make your jaw drop.

Next, we recommend visiting the Museum Plantin-Moretus. Not only is it beautiful on its own, here you can learn the history of printing press. Another recommended landmark is the Rubenshuis  the residence of the world renowned artist  Pieter Paul Rubens. For the nature lovers, we advise you take a trip to the historic Antwerp Zoo.

Heres a short list of other places in Antwerp that are worth a visit:

Red Star Line Museum

Cathedral of Our Lady

Het Steen

MAS Museum

Other than the mentioned landmarks, Antwerp is also known as the fashion and art center of Belgium. If you happen to travel here, be sure to take a look at the local galleries, and you wont be disappointed.

Tip: To get the most out of your experience, we advise to do the majority of your exploring on top of a rented bicycle.

3. Ghent

READ ALSO: List of cities in Norway by population

Population: 231,000

Ghent is the third biggest city in Belgium by population. The town itself is a magnificent mixture of bridges, canals, and monuments that will take your breath away. Add to that the local Flemish cuisine, and you have a wonderful vacation.

One of the must-visit places in Ghent is the Patershol. Its a wild arrangement of twisting cobblestone streets with old houses and semi-hidden restaurants waiting for a curious traveler. Another stop should be the MSK art gallery. It contains not only hundreds of pieces of fine art, but the building itself is styled to look like an ancient Greek temple.

People who love to visit Christian landmarks must see the St-Pietersabdij  one of the biggest abbeys in Belgium. We also advise you to take a look at the grand St-Baafskathedraal cathedral.

Tourists interested in historical battles should travel to the 12-th century Gravensteen castle. The last place we recommend seeing is the MIAT museum of Ghents history. Its located in a 19-th century mill-factory structure and has five floors of various expositions.

4. Charleroi

Population: 200,000

Charleroi is the biggest city in the Wallonia region and the fourth most populated city in the country. This town is commonly overlooked by tourists that are planning to visit Belgium. The reason lies within the fact that Charleroi is an industrial city and so, regarding landmarks, it isnt as attractive as Brussels or Antwerp. The town earned its wealth by being the Belgian leader in the production of iron, steel, glass, and chemicals.

Despite its industrial nature, Charleroi has more than enough attractions to keep a traveler interested for a couple of days.

The Jules Destree Museum offers its visitors historical documents from the last few centuries, while the Museum of Fine Arts can also steal a couple of hours of your time. Architecture-wise, we recommend you see the Town Hall, as it is undoubtedly the most impressive building in Charleroi. The structure is an unusual combination of the Classical and Art Deco styles and is worth taking a couple of pictures.

By the way, if youre a fan of photography, Charleroi is the place for you. The city is the proud owner of the largest Photography Museum in Europe and is a Mecca for the followers of this art form.

5. Liege

Population: 182,000

Like the previous town in our list, Liege is also one of the biggest industrial centers in Belgium. It was one of the first towns in the world to start mining coal and forging steel. Liege also doesnt have a lot of monuments or castles, but the places it does have are definitely worth seeing.

The most beautiful architectural structure is the Palais des Princes-Eveques. Formerly the palace of princes, now it serves as the Walloon government house. This building is a prime example of a mixture of the Renaissance and Gothic styles.

Another landmark is the Museum of Walloon Life that used to be a Minorite monastery. As Liege is the biggest city in the region, this museum has thousands of exhibits that depict the culture and history of Wallonia. While youre here, you can also visit the Museum of Religious Art that is situated right next door.

As youre wandering around the central part of the city, walk along the Feronstree street, which will not only make you feel like a time traveler, it will also send you back to Medieval times and will lead you to the Ilot Saint-Georges Complex and the Museum of Walloon Art.

If youre a romantic at heart, we also recommend you take a stroll along the bank of the Meuse River. The calm, relaxing atmosphere and the historical surroundings will prove to be unforgettable.

As you can see, the biggest cities in Belgium have a lot to offer. All you have to do is to take a step in their direction, and you will never regret your decision.

READ ALSO: List of cities in Austria by population

Source: Legit.ng
The history of access bank reflects 28 years of development. It includes many bad and good days for this bank. Nevertheless, even if it looks young compared to other banks, it certainly has its traditions! Let`s take a look at the history of Access Bank Nigeria!

History of Access Bank Plc

License issue

What is the history of Access Bank? The very first step for every bank in Nigeria is the license issue. In the history of Access Bank, the first date to remember is the date when it applied for license issue. This was on December 19, 1988. The bank received the license in 1989.

Privately Owned Commercial Bank

The bank was licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria in 1989. In that year, the bank was also incorporated as a privately owned institution. This commercial bank became a part of the Access Bank Group.

First Major Operation

The very first major success in the brief history of Access Bank Plc was on May 11, 1989. On that day, Access Bank launched its first financial operations from the Apapa Head Office.

Becoming a Public Limited Liability Company

The very first indications about Access Bank becoming a Public Limited Liability Company started at the beginning of the 1990s. However, the official date of the Bank becoming a Plc was March 1988. This development helped a lot in further decisions made by the bank.

Stock Exchange Market

The very first victory for the bank was on November 18, 1998. On this very date, a new chapter in the history of Access Bank Nigeria was opened. The bank opened its arms to the Nigerian Stock Exchange Market. The first success on the exchange market was obvious. Access bank conquered the attention of stockbrokers. This served to increased the trust of people who invested their money into this bank.

Universal Banking License

READ ALSO: Lucrative business in Nigeria with small capital

Access Bank of Nigeria received its Universal Banking License from the Central Bank of Nigeria on February 5, 2001. It was a unique license which helped to increase trust in the eye of investors.

The Wind of Changes

In March 2002, the some changes came to Access Bank Nigeria! Aigboje-Imoukuedede was appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of the bank. The second revolutionary appointment was choosing the Deputy Managing Director  Herbert Wigwe. The Board Directors gave them only one task which is to transform the bank into one of the leading financial institutions in Nigeria. They had only five years to complete the task.

The new management team which was brought together by Mr. Gbenga Oyebode provided the following focuses of the bank for five years:

Shareholder base should be enlarged;

Assemble new management team that can change situation in the bank;

Create a new brand for the bank;

Create new branches of the bank;

Provide a new low-cost strategy;

Human Capital Development should be prioritized;

Increase intercultural exchanges within the bank.

The impact of the changes was obvious in the first year after assembling a new management team. The profit in the first year of the plan was more than the profit made in the previous 12 years.

The growth of the bank was transformed into the real profits for its shareholders. This was also the year when the bank started to seek new ways of expanding. Access Bank Nigeria started to look at Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Gambia as new countries to expand their banking activities.

Marina Bank

In 2005, Access Bank acquired new banks in its reign. Capital Bank and Marina Bank became new members of Access Bank Group.

New Subsidiary

In 2007, Access Bank established new branches in Gambia. A new subsidiary branch was created in Banjul. For now, the bank has four branches in that country!

Conquers of new banks

Access Bank started a new line of the conquering new banks. In 2008, Access Bank took 88% of Omnifinance Bank. It was not the first victory for the bank. In the same year, Access Bank also bought 90% of Banque Privee du Congo. Finbank also joined the Access Bank Group in 2008. While 2008 was a year of crisis for the world, it became a year of success in the history of Access Bank.

Intercontinental Bank

Access Bank started a new wave of conquers in 2011. In that very year, Access Bank Plc started negotiations with the Central Bank of Nigeria about intercontinental Bank. Access Bank was interested in acquiring 75% of the bank.

In the year 2012, Intercontinental Bank was under the command of Access Bank Group. It was the year when Access bank became one of the four biggest banks in Nigeria.

The Awards of the Bank

The management of the Bank of Nigeria was rewarded with the Best Risk Management award in 2014. This award was provided through collaboration between the Risk Management Institute (UK) and Business Day.

Another major victory of the bank was the Credit Card Product of the Year award  which was presented at the Africa Awards Ceremony!

Access Bank Plc today

Today, it`s one of the biggest banks in Nigeria. It's the fourth largest commercial bank in Nigeria! It has over 830, 000 shareholders. For the last ten years, it holds the status of one of the top 20 banks by total assets in Africa. The total assets of the bank are more than $12.2 billion. It provides jobs to more than 9000 people in Nigeria!

The history of the bank is a story of ups and downs. Regardless, this story continues, and the bank only keeps on expanding its territories and enlarging its revenues. For today, it`s one of the biggest commercial banks in Nigeria!

READ ALSO: Who is Guaranty Trust bank executive director?

Source: Legit.ng
- APC has accused Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti state of financing the Biafra agitation

- The party said Fayose did not only attend Kanu's court proceeding but pledged to raise fund for him

- They accused Fayose of also releasing his phone number and email address for Biafra agitators to contact him

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the Ekiti state governor, Ayodele Fayose, of sponsoring the Biafra agitation led by Nnamdi Kanu.

Legit.ng learnt that the party said Fayose did not only visit Kanu in court, but also promised to meet with the deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, to solicit fund for Kanu.

Premium Times reports that the party accused Fayose of working against the Nigerian government by going as far as advising the Chinese government to not bail Nigeria out of recession.

In a statement signed by the publicity secretary of APC, Ekiti chapter, Taiwo Olatunbosun, the party said Fayose was behind any activities that would bring the Nigerian government down, including accusing the government of ethnic cleansing in the southeast.

Olatunbosun said: On April 26 and as published by The Nigerian Tribune Newspaper and its online publication on April 27, 2017, Fayose said he was working in conjunction with Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, to raise funds for Kanu, stressing that he was taking his support for Kanu beyond showing solidarity in court by raising funds that would be deposited in an account opened in Kanus name."

READ ALSO: Military option is never a solution - Ohanaeze warns federal government

He quoted the governor as saying that, as many lawyers willing to fight the oppression should join the struggle for liberation from the oppression, alleging that Fayose was not new to seditious and treasonable activities to bring Nigeria down.

Olatunbosun added that: He led a campaign to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja and later to Shanghai, the Chinese capital, to urge the Chinese government not to lend hands in helping Nigeria out of recession.

Relentlessly, he led hate campaigns against the symbol of the Nigerian authority, President Muhammadu Buhari, wishing him dead, including hounding and haunting the president across the world, including on his sick bed, and threatening to expose the president on a life-support machine, all these in spite of swearing to uphold the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to be loyal to the Nigerian state and her president.

He went further as reported in the media on May 25, 2017 that Ekiti state is now part of Biafra, which drew the ire of several Yoruba groups as reported in the media.

Not done, while Nigerians and indeed the countrys leaders were celebrating Nigerias exit from recession, Fayose was the only governor across the country who dismissed the celebration as a ruse, maintaining that Nigeria was still in a deep economic mess even though in his state, he is the biggest stumbling block to the survival of Ekiti people by diverting all loans he took to pay workers salary to needless projects contracts awarded to his friends companies in which he allegedly has interest.

Olatunbosun added that Fayose went further to show his support for IPOB by releasing his phone number, 070300000393 and email: mystory2006@yahoo.com as reported in the media on April 27, 2017, while urging Biafra supporters to contact him.

He said: All the southeast governors, including the Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, have opposed Kanu in his secessionist activities while Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state has warned Kanu and IPOB to stay away from Rivers; but Fayose declared Ekiti state as part of Biafra and that has confirmed the report that he is part of Biafras financiers as he had publicly declared to the media.

No wonder, just four months after Fayose started mobilising funds for Biafra, thousands of deadly weapons, including military assault rifles, were smuggled into the country but were intercepted by the Nigerian Customs while it was also discovered that uniformed Biafran militants already have military training camps where they are planning deadly assaults against Nigeria after threatening her leaders.

We had earlier alerted the security agencies to the presence of armed gangs and stockpiling of arms in the Ekiti state government house and his present activities in raising funds for Kanu only confirm that he is part of rebellion against the Nigerian state.

We have always insisted that Fayose is a threat to the Nigerias unity and the economic survival of her people.

His support for Kanu in funds mobilisation for his treasonable act and the activities of Fayoses media men in promoting the Biafran cause only point to one agenda to destabilise Nigeria and that has proved us right that Fayose has no agenda than the destabilisation of Nigeria to enable him escape all illegal and criminal activities linked to him in recent past."

Governor Fayose, when contacted by the press, denied the allegation that he has been sponsoring Biafra agitators.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

The governor's chief press secretary, Idowu Adelusi, who spoke on his behalf, said the APC's allegation was an attempt to cover up the federal governments torture and killing of the Igbo people.

Legit.ng earlier reported that the minister of information and culture, Lai Mohammed, said agitation for Biafra is being sponsored by treasury looters and those who are politically disgruntled.

Mohammed said Kanu is being sponsored to incite war under the disguise of fighting for the rights of the people.

He said the IPOB activities was being sponsored to divert attention from the efforts of the Buhari administration and obliterate the laudable achievements of the government

Watch Legit.ng video of what Nigerians have to say about the army operation in southeast:

Source: Legit.ng
President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived New York, US ahead of the United Nations General Assembly.

This was contained in a post by Femi Adesina, the special adviser to the president on media and publicity, on Monday, September 18.

READ ALSO: Military option is never a solution - Ohanaeze warns federal government

The president got to the US on Sunday, September 17 and is expected to address world leaders at the General Assembly.

President Buhari with R-L: Governor Abdulaziz Yari, Ebonyi State Governor H.E. David Umahi and Ondo State Governor H.E. Rotimi Akeredolu. Credit: Facebook, Femi Adesina

Legit.ng had reported that after meeting with Kano, Borno and Sokoto governors, President Buhari left the state House for Abuja Airport on his way to the New York, the United State to participate in the 72nd session of UN general assembly.

Legit.ng gathered that the Femi Adesina, the special adviser on media to the president, made the first announcement on Friday, September 15 that the president would leave Abuja on Sunday, September 17, for New York where he is expected to join other world leaders at the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 72).

Watch a Legit.ng TV video below of Nigerians talking about the Buhari administration:

Source: Legit.ng
- The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has vowed to continue its agitation for the actualization of Biafra

- The group condemned military's proscription of the IPOB as a terror group

- The IPOB also said it will ignore all declarations made by the military or any other group against it

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has vowed to continue its agitation for the actualization of Biafra.

The IPOB said the agitation will continue despite Nigerian army's declaration of the group as a terrorists organization.

The IPOB's media and publicity secretary Emma Powerful in a statement on Sunday, September 17, said the group will ignore all declaration made by the military or any other group.

Emma said it is only a court of competent jurisdiction that has the right to declare a group as a terrorist one.

READ ALSO: APC accuses Fayose of sponsoring Nnamdi Kanu, gives reasons

He also condemned the declaration by the Nigerian military while stating that the IPOB is a freedom fighting organization focused on the agitation for the actualization of the Biafra nation.

Powerful said: "Whatever be the case Nigerian Army has no right or power to labeling IPOB a terrorist group whiles the case still in the court. It is the duty of Nigerian court to decide the case between the Nigerian government and IPOB under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu."

It is imperative to remind Nigerians that we are not in doubt that Nigerian government and her security operatives especially the Nigerian army cannot win this battle and dont have the temerity to label IPOB under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu a terrorist group, while the case between the Nigerian government and IPOB is still in the Federal High Court Abuja.

READ ALSO: IPOB is mobilising Nigerians to attack Buhari in U.S - Group cries out

IPOB under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu wins more converts every day in spite of the attacks, killings, intimidation on the innocent civilians and peaceful members of IPOB, we cannot accept the statement credited to Nigeria Army of labeling us a terrorist group, Nigerian Army is the real terrorist group.

We urge Nigerian government and its Army to wait till October 17, 2017 when the case will come up, if they have a superior arguments to challenge our leader Mazi Kanu and IPOB members worldwide they should come to the competent court of jurisdiction to table their case not parading themselves, not us as a terrorist group.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

The only constituted authority that can declare IPOB a terrorist group is a competent court of jurisdiction in Nigeria, not the Nigerian Army and South East Governors, they are only making mockery of their selves."

Legit.ng earlier reported that the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the Ekiti state governor, Ayodele Fayose, of financing IPOB's agitation for Biafra.

The APC said that Fayose did not only attended Kanu's court proceedings but pledged to raise funds for him.

The party also accused Fayose of releasing his mobile phone number and email address for Biafra agitators to contact him.

You can watch this Legit.ng exclusive video of physically challenged woman declaring her totally support for IPOB and Nnamdi Kanu:

Source: Legit.ng
- Human rights advocate, Femi Falana, has asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo to apologize to the country for the military invasions of Odi and Zaki Biam, during his administration

- Falana stated that Obasanjo should explain the basis for his recent appeal to President Buhari to dialogue with IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu; since he had also used military force to clamp down on agitators

- The senior advocate urged Buhari and southeast governors to consider the call for negotiation, as he noted that the former president had now realized the futility of military intervention

Femi Falana (SAN) has asked former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tender an apology to Nigerians for ordering the military to invade certain communities during his tenure, Punch reports.

Legit.ng notes that the human rights lawyer made his comments in response to recent calls by the former president for President Muhammadu Buhari to negotiate with the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

READ ALSO: Ikpeazu appreciates God for averting bloodbath in Abia, says 12 million Igbos living in the north

Falana called out Obasanjo for his hypocrisy, and reminded him of how he had used the military to clamp down on certain communities.

He stated: In calling for a dialogue between President Buhari and Mr. Kanu, former President Obasanjo ought to have apologised publicly for the military invasions of Odi in Bayelsa State and Zaki Biam in Benue State ordered by him.

The basis of the call should have been explained since President Obasanjo charged Niger Delta militants, leaders of ethnic militias and separatist movements with treason, which led to their prolonged detention in prison custody.

Convinced that former President Obasanjo has realised that the criminalisation of such agitation did not achieve its objective, his suggestion for a dialogue should be seriously considered by President Buhari and the South-East governors.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app

Recall that Legit.ng previously reported that Chief Olusegun Obasanjo said that the Operation Python Dance in the southeast region will not solve the problem of agitation.

Obasanjo called on President Muhammadu Buhari to meet with Kanu before the social unrest degenerates into a full blown war.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video asking Nigerians if the Operation Python Dance campaign should be canceled.

Source: Legit.ng
- Police in Abia state have arrested 37 IPOB members for various crimes

- The police also alleged that soldiers recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs from the house of the leader of Nnamdi Kanu

- An officer was said to have lost his life after IPOB members attack a police station

The police in Abia state have highlighted some of the crimes alleged to have been committed by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) during the recent riots that took place in the state.

The police claimed that soldiers recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs from the house of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of IPOB.

Commissioner of Police for Abia, Mr. Anthony Ogbizi disclosed this while briefing the visiting Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Operations, Force Headquarters, Taiwo Lakanu, in Umuahia, the Nation reports.

1. Petrol bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) recovered from Nnamdi Kanus house

He said soldiers recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs from Nnamdi Kanus house.

2. Looting and burning of the Ariaria police divisional headquarters

The police said thirty IPOB members were arrested by soldiers in Isiala Ngwa area of the state, while the remaining seven are accused of having a hand in the Friday looting and burning of the Ariaria Police Divisional Headquarters.

3. Carted away three pump actions and other police materials after attacking a police officer

Police Commissioner Anthony Ogbizi told visiting Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Operations, Force Headquarters Taiwo Lakanu that Ariaria station officer, an assistant superintendent of police was attacked by the arsonists

He said: They were armed with petrol bomb. They burnt police vehicles and carted away three pump actions and other police materials. Some officers were injured and in fact as Im talking to you, one of the injured police officer, an ASP is dead.

The doctors tried their best to save him, but they couldnt. Now, we have lost a soul. And you know what it takes to train a police officer. And you know the vacuum created. Once a police officer is gone, it takes a minimum of one year to train another."

READ ALSO: Fayose is part of Biafras financiers - APC

4. Attack on law abiding citizens

The police also accused the IPOB members of attacking law abiding citizens

Simultaneously, they carried other attacks on law abiding citizens of this nation. You could see along the road the destruction of vehicles belonging to citizens. Certainly you cannot say that that is a peaceful demonstration. I think this attack was orchestrated to get arms which they succeeded in doing. Thank God the police succeeded in securing other arms. They attacked a bank may be with the intention to get more money to buy arms."

5. Confronting the military

IPOB members were also accused of confronting the military.

IPOB, going to that extent, cannot say that it is a non-violent movement. While this one was happening here, along the road in Isiala Ngwa, the same IPOB members in droves confronted the military and the military were able to arrest up to 30 of them.

They will be prosecuted for rioting and unlawful assembly and other things. While that was going on, the same IPOB carried attack of various manner in Umuahia and even tried to collect a rifle from a female military officer. In the process, the military resisted and were able to arrest 19 of them."

6. Attack the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9

The police in Abia state also accused IPOB members of attacking the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9 and that of the commissioner of police

At the same time, along the road leading to Umuahia, they set up bonfire attacking the police and innocent citizens and pulled out traffic stands. The vicinity where the attorney general of the state, assistant inspector general Zone 9, commissioner of police, and other residents live. They attacked the quarters of the assistant inspector general of police Zone 9 and that of the commissioner of police.

7. Kanu's house was the attack base

The police also alleged that Nnamdi kanu's house was the attack base for most of the mayhem unleashed by IPOB members on Abia state.

And the house of the self acclaimed leader of IPOB, Kanu was the house they usually come out from to carry out these attacks and information reaching us is that they have started gathering there. Many exhibits were recovered from there like petrol bomb and coat of arm of Biafra.

I know that 90% of Abians are not in support of this, but a few hoodlums and some others from other states operating under the disguise of IPOB with the motive to cripple the economy of Abia. If this is not planned, how could they come in droves to carry out these attacks? At a time, a mobile patrol vehicle was moving and IPOB members poured petrol on the van with intent to burn it. Imagine if that was successful. Im glad that eastern governors have proscribed the organisation."

8. Kanus father not in police net

The police however denied the allegation by IPOB that security agents whisked away Kanus father and some members of the IPOB leaders family.

Ogbizi said: "We dont have Kanus father in police net.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

Meanwhile, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia state had been issued a 24-hour ultimatum to dethrone His Royal Majesty, Israel Okwu Kanu, the paramount ruler of Isiama Afaraukwu in Umuahia, and father of leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu.

The group said failure of the governor to dethrone the monarch will force them to take laws into their own hands and dethrone the monarch.

Watch this Legit.ng video of a supporter of Nnamdi Kanu and how she wants to celebrate the agitator:

Source: Legit.ng
- Senator Shehu Sani has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to investigate the actual cause of late President Umar YarAduas death

- YarAdua died on May 5, 2010 after a prolonged illness

- But Sani said that recent revelations proved that YarAduas death was not natural

The senator representing Kaduna central senatorial district, Senator Shehu Sani has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to open a new investigation into the death of late President Umar YarAdua.

Legit.ng gathered that senator Sani on his Facebook page said that Buhari should ensure that the real cause of YarAduas death is investigated without any delay.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: President Buhari arrives US for UNGA (photos)

He said: With new facts emerging about Yar'adua's death, President Buhari should open a new investigation into what actually happened to the late president.

The hitherto belief was that his death was as a result of a natural, terminal illness, recent revelations has proved otherwise. We must clear this fog of history. What killed President Umaru Yar'adua and who killed Umaru Yar'adua?

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that Sani advised the minister of women affairs and social development, Aisha Alhassan, to resign from Buharis cabinet if she intends to work for former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, in 2019.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video about how Nigerians reacted to 2019 Buhari campaign posters flooding the streets:

Source: Legit.ng
- Former president Goodluck Jonathan has been bashed by Femi Falana, for asking for the Council of State to be convened, to resolve the crisis in the southeast

- The legal luminary noted that the former president had not called for such a meeting before he deployed soldiers to the Niger Delta to deal with agitators, during his tenure as president

- According to Falana, instead of suggesting such irrelevant meetings, the root causes of the various agitations in the country should be addressed immediately

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has faulted the call made by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, for a Council of State meeting, to resolve the crisis in the southeast, Punch reports.

Falana insinuated that it was hypocritical for the former president to make such a call when he had taken similar action during his administration, without recourse to the Council.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo should apologize for Odi, Zaki Biam - Femi Falana

He stated: For goodness sake, why was such a meeting not called before soldiers were deployed in the Niger Delta to deal with militants?

Did President Jonathan call any meeting before deploying soldiers all over the country for the 2015 general elections in defiance of the judgments of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal?

Instead of suggesting irrelevant meetings, the root causes of the increasing loss of faith in the corporate existence of Nigeria by unemployed youths and other poverty-stricken people should be urgently addressed by the ruling class.

As a matter of urgency, the underdevelopment of the nation caused by the mindless corruption and criminal diversion of public funds by unpatriotic public officers on our hapless people should be addressed.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app

Recall that Legit.ng previously reported that the immediate past President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, reacted to the crisis in the southeast region of the country.

The former president expressed worry over the unfolding events in the region, and stated that it was time for the Council of State to intervene.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video asking Nigerians if the Operation Python Dance campaign should be canceled.

Source: Legit.ng
- Senate president Bukola Saraki has announced that the army's decision to categorize the IPOB as a terrorist organisation is unconstitutional

- Saraki said the proscription of the IPOB group by the southeast governors is against the law

- He urged for peace and promised that the National Assembly will investigate the crises between the army and IPOB

Senate president Bukola Saraki has announced that the declaration of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as a terrorist group by the Nigerian army is unconstitutional.

The Senate president also claimed that the proscription of the IPOB by the southeast governors is unlawful.

In a statement by Saraki, he urged all parties involved to allow peace reign while he and the National Assembly begin a thorough investigation of the crises.

He said:"Following the clash between the military and members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), I hereby call for calm and restraint by all Nigerians so that we would all jointly find the right solution to the current problem rather than worsening the crisis.

"Our brothers and sisters in the South-east, in particular, should continue to maintain peace and tranquility and go about their lawful business. This crisis will not benefit anybody but would only expose innocent people to unwarranted danger.

READ ALSO: Police list Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB crimes in Abia state

"At this point, Nigerians outside the south-east who have worked to ensure that the crisis does not spread to other parts of the country deserve our commendation. I therefore call for continued efforts to sustain peace, unity and stability in all our communities so as to ensure that all residents, no matter their religion, tribe and creed remain protected and safe under the law."

Saraki, while stating that the army's decision to declare IPOB a terrorist group did not follow due process, said he is sure President Buhari will do the needful by initiating the right process.

He said: "It is also important that commentators and purveyors of information on all media platforms should be conscious of the need, at all times, to maintain the unity of the country. Therefore, they must refrain from circulating information that has the potential for aggravating the crisis. We should all realize, as individuals and as a collective, that Nigeria is all we have and it is in our individual and collective interests that we do not stoke the fire of crisis and fan the ember of discord through the message we are spreading. We must all protect and strengthen our country rather than contributing to her collapse and disintegration.

"I also wish to state that the announcement of the proscription of the group known as Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) by governors of the South-east states and the categorization of the group as a 'terrorist organisation' by the Nigerian military are unconstitutional and does not follow due process. Our laws make clear provisions for taking such actions and without the due process being followed, such declaration cannot have effect. I am sure the president will do the needful by initiating the right process. This will go a long way in demonstrating to the world at large that we are a country that operate by laid down process under every circumstance. So, those who have been hammering on this point should maintain their cool."

He, however, commended the military effort in restoring peace to Abia state and all other southeast cities after the crises with the IPOB.

Saraki said: "We must commend the military for their efforts in restoring peace to different parts of the country and sustaining the unity of the country. However, in the face of provocation, the military should allow themselves to be guided by their training which emphasizes respect for human rights, even in war. Also, giving the nature of this particular situation, the military has every reason to be hesitant in the use of force.

"Also, it is my view that we should not over-stretch the military. We need to protect our military against dissipation of their fighting strength. And this means we need to strengthen the police and equip them with the capacity to deal with civil crisis. That is why we, in the a National Assembly, are already reviewing the Police Act and also looking at the possibility of enabling other para-military agencies to help in curbing civil unrest and maintenance of law and order."

He vowed that the National Assembly will investigate the activities of the Nigerian military in the southeast during the Operation Python Dance I.

He said: "I want to also make it clear that the National Assembly intends to embark on a fact-finding investigation aimed at determining what actually happened during the period of the military exercise in the South-east. We want to be able to sift the facts from the fiction and determine who did what. It is quite clear that all the facts are not yet known. We assure Nigerians that there will be no cover up. We intend to lay the facts bare.

"On a long term, we want to remind Nigerians that the reason for embarking on constitution review by the National Assembly was to enable us look into issues that are agitating the minds of Nigerians and creating tension among us. We have promised that the exercise would be continuous. We intend to keep that promise by further taking decisions that would strengthen and improve on our structures. The Eighth National Assembly, on resumption, will play its constitutional role by addressing all those issues that are agitating the minds of our people and over which they feel so strong. I appeal to all our people to always direct their grievances to the right channels.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

"Let me further reiterate the need for all leaders of thought -political. religious and traditional- to continue to engage with our people on the need to maintain peace and be our brothers' keepers."

Meanwhile, Legit.ng has reported that despite the controversy that greeted Operation Python Dance II in the Southeast region, the Nigerian Army said on Saturday that it would launch an operation, Crocodile Smile II, which would cover the South-South region and some parts of the southwest.

The director, army public relations, Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, said this in an interview with Signature TV on Saturday September 16.

Legit.ng gathered that the army spokesman noted that encouraging feedback from the South-East after Python Dance I made the army to commence Python Dance II.

Watch this Legit.ng exclusive video of Nnamdi Kanu's lawyers reacting the army's invasion of his client's residence:

Source: Legit.ng
- Governor Ayo Fayose has countered claims made by the APC, that he was sponsoring the IPOB agitations

- The governor highlighted other previous hot-bed zones in the country and questioned why he wasnt accused of sponsoring the agitators in those circumstances

- Fayose condemned the killings in the southeast and stated that Nigeria is being militarized, just as it was in 1984 when Buhari was head of state

The governor of Ekiti state, Ayo Fayose, has reacted to claims made by the All Progressives Congress (APC), that he is the one funding the agitation of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a series of tweets via his handle, @GovAyoFayose, the governor stated that the ruling party was making such a claim against him because he had spoken out against the killings by the military in the southeast.

READ ALSO: South-East crisis: GEJs call for a Council of State meeting is irrelevant - Femi Falana

He tweeted:

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app

Recall that Legit.ng previously reported that the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the Ekiti state governor, Ayodele Fayose, of sponsoring the Biafra agitation led by Nnamdi Kanu.

The party said Fayose did not only visit Kanu in court, but also promised to meet with the deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, to solicit fund for Kanu.

In a statement signed by the publicity secretary of APC, Ekiti chapter, Taiwo Olatunbosun, the party said Fayose was behind any activities that would bring the Nigerian government down, including accusing the government of ethnic cleansing in the southeast.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video asking Nigerians if the Operation Python Dance campaign should be canceled.

Source: Legit.ng
- The deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, calls on President Buhari to thread carefully regarding the agitations in the southeast region

- The senator expresses fears that the government is embarking on a huge misjudgment by adopting a military option to the Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB challenge

- Ekweremadu says a military option will certainly not work in the southeast as was the case in the Niger Delta

The deputy Senate president, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to order the immediate withdrawal of troops in the southeast region.

The Ekweremadu made the demand in a letter written to the president titled, Rising Tension in the southeast: Re: Appeal to Call Off Operation Egwu Eke, which was dated Thursday, September 14, Vanguard reports.

READ ALSO: Catholic priest blasts Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB

In the letter, the deputy Senate president warned that the ongoing Operation Python Dance in southeast could degenerate to full scale civil war if not halted.

The senator appealed to President Buhari to thread carefully regarding the agitations in the southeast, noting that the peace of Nigeria had never been this fragile since the end of the civil war.

Ekweremadu recalled how the leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, was detained during the administration of late President Umar Musa YarAdua.

He said Uwazuruike was however released based on the advice from leaders from the southeast region.

The senator said since then, the MASSOB leader has never posed any threat to the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria ever after.

See the full letter from Ekweremadu below:

The peace of Nigeria has never been this fragile since the end of the civil war and as leaders we must do everything humanly possible and legitimate to hold the nation together in peace and prosperity.

As President and Commander-in-Chief, you would agree with me that there is need for caution.

Recall, Your Excellency, that the South East Caucus of the Senate met with you on November 9, 2016. We had a heart-to-heart discussion on pressing issues affecting the South East. Recall that on the issue of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, who was then in detention, we pleaded for your intervention and strongly advised against his continued detention. We were of the view that his continued detention would only further popularise, and in fact make him a hero.

Furthermore, we informed you that when the leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, was detained during the administration of late President Umar Musa YarAdua, we approached the former President and appealed to him to immediately release Chief Uwazuruike to avoid creating a mountain out of a molehill. He heeded the advice and Chief Uwazuruike and MASSOB have never posed any threat to the peace and sovereignty of Nigeria ever after.

I recall, however, that on the appeal for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, you told us to allow the judicial process to run its cause.

But, in retrospect, it proved to be a big mistake on the side of government as his continued detention made him a hero among a cross-section of the people.

I am afraid, Your Excellency, that the government is embarking on yet another huge misjudgment today by adopting a military option to the Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB challenge.

As things stand, the reaction of the youth in the region is unpredictable. It is also possible that their reactions and actions of the military may be misrepresented or exaggerated on the social media and trigger a chain of other actions in other parts of the country also.

Not even Your Excellency or anyone else for that matter can certainly foretell the outcome of such chain of actions, reactions, and reprisals. But at least, you are in a position to imagine the number of the avoidable casualties and deaths.

Your Excellency, you were an active participant in the civil war. With the benefits of your age, experience, exposure and present position as the President of this great nation, I know you would not wish any part of Nigeria to go through that experience again.

I appeal to you to use these benefits to avert any descent into the 1967  1970 experience. It is obvious to all of us that the wounds of that war are yet to heal. Therefore, as President, duty calls on you to not only ensure that the wounds fully heal, but also that they do not reoccur.

By the provisions of Section 215 (3) of the 1999 Constitution on the powers of the President to deploy the police for the maintenance and securing of public safety and public order as well as Section 217 (2)(c) on the deployment of the armed forces to quell insurrection, I do not believe that the IPOB issue, as it is today, deserves military solution. We must objectively differentiate civil disobedience, displeasing as it is, from insurrection or mutiny.

As a General, you would agree with me that the armed forces are not trained to contain civil disobedience or civil protest. Therefore, deploying soldiers in the present circumstance is like using fuel to quench candlelight. I am very worried that our armed forces that are already heavily stretched are being saddled with the responsibilities outside their primary constitutional duties.

"As a lawyer, let me most respectfully point out that the courts have severally frowned at the deployment of soldiers in circumstances as we presently have in the South East, describing it as totally unconstitutional.

Besides, let us be mindful that it was the mishandling of the Boko Haram sect, especially the elimination of its leader, Mohammed Yusuf that escalated into the full-blown insurgency we have in the North East for many years now.

"That singular misadventure has led to wanton destruction of lives and property, Nigerians and foreigners alike, in the North East in particular and other parts of the country as well. It has affected both the Federal Government and the international community financially, with monumental resources that should have gone into development now channeled into containing the Boko Haram menace.

Military option did not also work in the Niger Delta. It will certainly not work in the South East. As was the case in the Niger Delta, dialogue is the best option.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

With the benefit of the hindsight, therefore, it is my hope that you will heed my humble advice to withdraw the troops lest we unwittingly find ourselves in the same circumstance as we have in the North East.

As a quick win, the position of these leaders was that the Federal Government should, in the meantime, do more in giving the South East a sense of belonging by addressing the palpable marginalization and exclusion of the region to diffuse the growing disenchantment with the Nigerian project and sentiments for Nnamdi Kanus position and message.

Your Excellency would recall that it was exactly the same suggestion earlier adduced by the South East Senate Caucus during the November 2016 meeting with you. We especially appealed to you to address the total exclusion of the entire South East region in the headship and commanding heights of nations security agencies and organs. Although you promised to address this anomaly, this, regrettably, has not happened.

Furthermore, I have it on good authority that the security chiefs also advised along the line of giving the South East a sense of belonging by way of appointments and infrastructural development. Regrettably, that advice is yet to be implemented.

Your Excellency, between 1967 and now is well over 50 years. As a seasoned soldier, you would agree with me that the character of war has changed dramatically. Therefore, the outcome of another war in any part of Nigeria, God forbid, will be unpredictable. By Gods grace, you are back and fully recovered now. I would like to advise that you meet with the leaders of the South East to continue with the dialogue as soon as you get the military deployed to the South East to return to their barracks.

I speak for myself and other leaders of the South East that we will make ourselves available towards finding political solutions to the agitations in the region. In the meantime, be assured that the South East leaders are already taking the necessary steps to ensure that the situation does not escalate.

Legit.ng had reported that governors of the southeast states recently had a meeting in Enugu state to deliberate on the clash between the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) and Nigerian Army in the region.

The governors were also expected to meet with some leaders of the zone to deliberate and come out with a blueprint on how to address the situation and challenges being posed by Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB leader.

In the video below, Legit.ng TV asked people what effect they think the formation of the Biafra Security Service (BSS) will have on the quest for the actualization of Biafra.

Source: Legit.ng
- Musician-turned-activist, Charly Boy, has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene and douse the tension currently being witnessed in the southeast

- The activist urged the president to quell the tension, rather than steaming up the flames of enmity and discord within the country by using force on harmless citizens

- He reminded Buhari of the consequences of the 1967 civil war and called on the president to assure Nigerians that this current storm shall pass, even as he extolled the virtues of patriotic youths

Convener of the Our Mumu Don Do movement, Charles Oputa aka Charly Boy, has written a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari concerning the crisis in the southeast.

In the open letter, he appealed for the presidents intervention in the crisis and also other social and economic challenges facing the nation.

READ ALSO: Fayose responds to APCs allegations of sponsoring IPOB

He stated: My President: I bear my heart out in this letter with great respect and humility. Often times I wonder if you read any of my open letters. However, I write this open letter so fellow Nigerians will understand the ache in my heart.

I was about 17yrs during the Nigerian civil war. My youth was scandalized, and since then, I have carried a big scar in my heart. All I saw around me then, was blood, death, and hunger.

That war, which could have been avoided was a collateral damage for easterners. Over three million people died  when it could have been resolved on a conference table.

Mr. President Sir, most Nigerians, are hopeless, helpless, fearful, aggrieved, and have been brutalized by poverty created by the status quo to terrorize my people.

When you came on board I had hoped that yours would be a government that would assist the ordinary people; a government that will turn round the economy and put a smile on the faces of Nigerians.

No, I dont blame you for the woes that have befallen us, but, truth be told, you have so far spent too much time passing the buck than actually serving the people you struggled to lead. Two years is enough for us to start feeling like something would happen.

I cant believe that as hard and as many times as you applied for this job and you finally got it, this is the best you can do? Haba, baba! Now you can see the disadvantage of surrounding yourself with incompetent people.

I remember it was your wife who first cried out, warned us that you have been hijacked by the hyenas, jackals, and very suspicious people who dont really care about Nigeria or you. Sir, as a father, please do something to calm down this rising tension.

As a father, it is very wrong to show your children that you have a favorite. Right now, it is clear that we are in a big mess. And sometimes I wonder if you understand how difficult it is for the masses to cope.

People even from your village have complained to us (OurMumuDonDo movement); from Sokoto to Owerri, Benue to Delta, hunger everywhere, young people committing suicide, yet the legislators and executives still maintain their obnoxious lifestyle.

There is so much I want to say as a very frustrated Nigerian, but for now whats uppermost in my heart is to plead with you to intervene in this 'Operation Python Dance'.

Biko Baba, you should be committed to dousing tensions and promoting peace and unity.

In as much as I am aware that the Federal Government is concerned about curbing divisive messages and inordinate agitations within the country, I believe it should be more concerned about safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians in any part of the country.

It is also important to note that though recanted, the October 1 ultimatum issued by some misguided northern youths to the Igbos in the north remains weighty in the minds of many and the atmosphere is hypersensitive to any mishap that could foment such inter-ethnic wahala.

Sir, suffering Nigerians are begging you to quell this tension than steaming up the flames of enmity and discord within the country by using force on harmless citizens.

During The Resume or Resign peaceful protest, Baba, you listened, and thats why you came back.

On behalf of all frustrated, hopeless, unsafe, hungry Nigerians I beg you, hear our prayer. As a Father show some compassion and give us hope that this too shall pass away.

"I am proud to say that am discovering exceptional youths who are inflamed by the love of fatherland, angered at the rape of our dignity and prosperity, determined to rise up and hold one another, to march down and uphold the dignity and prosperity of all Nigerians.

Baba, make Naija no spoil for your hand O!!!!!! God Bless Nigeria.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that an Igbo group praised the Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government and the Army for embarking on the Operation Python Dance campaign in the south east.

According to the Igbos For Nigeria Movement (INM), the deployment of the force will help stamp out criminality in the region.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video asking if the Operation Python Dance campaign should be canceled.

Source: Legit.ng
- Some youths in Abia state have threatened to shutdown the state capital should Nnamdi Kanu's father be deposed

- The youths also warned the Abia state governor not to heed to the call to dethrone Eze Israel Kanu

- The Ibeku Youth Assembly (IYA) alleged that the call for the dethronement of Kanu's father is politically motivated

A youth group has threatened to shut down Umuahia, Abia state capital city, if the father to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu is deposed.

The youths also warned the Abia state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, against any move by the state government to depose Eze Israel Kanu as the traditional ruler of Isiama Afara Ukwu Ibeku in Umiahia.

The youths under the aegis of Ibeku Youth Assembly (IYA) alleged that the call by another youth group, Umuahia Youth Movement, for the dethronement of Kanu's father is politically sponsored.

READ ALSO: You can't declare IPOB a terrorist group - Saraki tells Nigerian army

IYA in a statement signed by its secretary, Ihechi Zik, said the IYA would not tolerate plans by some unscrupulous elements to depose the highly respected monarch in Abia state and the country as a whole.

Zik said: "We are calling on Governor Okezie Ikpeazu not to heed to the call by the faceless group that Eze Kanu should be deposed over the Biafra agitation by his son, Nnamdi Kanu. Because to our knowledge, Eze Kanu has not done anything wrong."

Some youths in Abia state have threatened to shutdown the state capital should Nnamdi Kanu's father be deposed

The IYA noting that the IPOB leader was exercising his fundamental human right by agitating for Biafra said his father has also done nothing wrong against the people to warrant the sack as a traditional ruler.

READ ALSO: Police recover bombs from Nnamdi Kanus house, list IPOB crimes in Abia

The group also said it will resist any attempt to depose Eze Israel from the throne.

"Any attempt by the state government to remove Eze Kanu will spell doom for the state and we will ensure the state is shut down if such plan is carried out.

"We are also condemning the alleged invasion of the residence of Eze Kanu by soldiers in search of his son, Nnamdi Kani. We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to withdraw soldiers, nicknamed "operation Python Dance 11" from the street of Umuahia following cases of killings by Nigeria Army.

"We are living in fears due to the heavy presence of soldiers. Umuahia is not a war zone. People are being killed like animals in Umuahia. It is condemnable the wanton killing of IPOB members, who are only exercising their right.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

"We are calling on the federal government of Nigeria to toe the path of dialogue rather than unleashing on slaughter against innocent members of IPOB who have never carried arms against government," the IYA said.

Legit.ng earlier added that the Umuahia Youth Movement had given the Abia state governor Okezie Ikpeazu 24 hours to dethrone the father of the IPOB leader.

The movement in a statement alleged that failure to depose Eze Israel of his throne will force them to take laws into their hands.

The group also accused the leader of the IPOB of bringing chaos to the state through his agitation for the freedom of Biafra.

Watch this Legit.ng video of a supporter of Nnamdi Kanu and how she wants to celebrate the agitator:

Source: Legit.ng
- The Nigerian presidency has spoken on the army operation in the southeast

- The presidency said that the presence of army in Abia state or anywhere else is not an invasion

- The special assistant to President Buhari on prosecution claims that the president has the power to deploy army to any part of Nigeria it wishes

The special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on prosecution, Okoi Obono-Obla, has said there is nothing wrong with the army's presence in the southeast.

Obono-Obla said that the president has the power to deploy the military to any part of Nigeria and Abia state is still a part of the country.

He argued that President Buhari can decide to send the armed forces of Nigeria on police duties if needed, The Nation reports.

Obono-Obla, in a statement on Sunday, September 17, said: It is axiomatic that Abia state constitutes part and parcel of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the president, Commanderin-Chief; President Muhammadu Buhari, has the power to deploy the Armed Forces to any part of the territory that constitutes the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to maintaining and securing public safety and public order.

READ ALSO: We'll shut down Umuahia if Nnamdi Kanu's father is dethroned - Ibeku Youth Assembly vows

It follows that by Section 8 (3) of the Armed Forces Act, the president, in exercise of his powers to determine the operational use of the Armed Forces, direct that the deployment of any branch of the Armed Forces for the purpose of maintaining and securing public safety and public order.

This is precisely what the President did when he deployed the Armed Forces to the Abia State of Nigeria to maintain and secure public safety and public order. Put differently, the President can, in certain circumstances, deployed the Armed Forces of Nigeria to perform police duties.

Examples of the use of the Armed Forces to maintain law and order sometimes in this country abound; so why are detractors of the Federal Government suggesting that the deployment of the Armed Forces to Abia state or the South East region amounts to invasion?

Citing the provisions of Section 217 subsections 2 (a) (b) (c) of the Constitution, Obono-Obla argued that grammatically or literarily or contextually the description or branding of the deployment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to Abia State to maintain public safety and public order as invasion, in the face of threat by IPOB, is absolutely wrong.

The pertinent question is, what is an invasion? An invasion is a military offensive in which large parts of combatants of one geo-political entity aggressively enter territory controlled by another such entity, generally with the objective of either conquering, liberating or re-establishing control or authority over a territory, forcing the partition of a country."

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Meanwhile, the Nigerian army in Enugu has said that the military exercise in the southeast, code-named Operation Python Dance 2 is not targeted at the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Colonel Sagir Musa, the deputy director, public relations, 82 Division, on Tuesday, September 12, said this when he briefed newsmen at the NUJ Secretariat, Umuahia, on the activities of troops deployed in Abia for the exercise.

Musa, dismissed speculations that the military was laying siege on Kanu, saying that the exercise is not targeted at the leader of IPOB or anybody or group.

In the Legit.ng video below; Nnamdi Kanu's lawyer reacts to the alleged military invasion of his client's house.

Source: Legit.ng
- Boko Haram has killed at least 19 people in Borno state

- The insurgents also killed a chief Imam in Borno village

- The dreaded sect also killed four other persons in Magumeri local government area of the state

No fewer than 15 people were reportedly killed on Monday, September 18 when two sui*cide bombers struck civilians receiving aid in Borno state, a rescue worker and a member of the civilian militia told AFP.

There were twin sui*cide explosions at 11:10 am in Mashalari village (near Konduga), which killed 15 and left 43 others injured, a rescue worker said in an account backed by Babakura Kolo, from the Civilian Joint Task Force.

Legit.ng had earlier reported that some suspected members of the dreaded Boko Haram sect on Sunday night, September 17 have killed the chief Imam of Kurmiri village of Titiwa ward in Magumeri local government area of Borno state alongside four other persons.

Report had it that the Chief Imam, Ustaz Goni Bukar Tabare is the senior brother to a popular politician in Magumeri, Mallam Goni Kundube.

Legit.ng also gathered that Magumeri has witnessed a series of deadly attacks in recent past, including the ambush, killing and abduction of NNPC oil exploration workers, contracted staff of University of Maiduguri and 15 members Civilian JTF in Bornoyesu village of Council July this year.

READ ALSO: Police list Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB crimes in Abia state

The attackers, according to investigation came into the village armed with Ak47 rifles, knives and machetes, but decided to execute their victims using knives, because the sounds of gunshots would alert many residents hence repel the attacks, even though, sources said, one of the attackers was arrested.

Confirming the attack, the caretaker chairman of Magumeri local government area, Alhaji Abubakar said: Chief Imam of Kurmiri village and four other persons were killed by suspected members of Boko Haram sect last night.

Abdulkadir who regretted the incident assured his people that adequate security have been provided and normallcy have been restored.

His words: We in Magumeri wake up this morning (Monday) and received a distress call that one of our Community witnessed Boko Haram attacks.

"Five people were killed, including the Chief Imam of Kurmiri village. We regretted this attack and we Pray Allah (God) grant Aljanal Firduas to the souls of the deceased and their families to bear the irreparable loss.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

I want to commend the effort of our Civilian JTF members, security agencies for their prompt action which led to the apprehension of one of the attackers.

I also want to urge members of the general public not to panic, but go about their businesses as the situation is under control. Abdulkadir stated.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that two soldiers were left injured after a female Boko Haram sui*cide bomber launched a surprise attack on a military checkpoint in the Konduga area of Borno state.

Watch this Legit.ng video as Nigerian Air Force strengthens its operations against Boko Haram:

Source: Legit.ng
- The Biafra National Guard (BNG) has declared they are ready to fight the Nigerian military

- This is a result of the recent decision of the Nigerian military to declare the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as terrorist

- The BNG have said they will protect the people of the southeast from any attack

The BNG has reportedly called out the Nigerian military and said it would defend people of the southeast against attack.

BNG also criticized the decision of the Nigerian military to declare the IPOB a terrorist group in a statement submitted to the press.

BNG stated that it would not be blackmailed by the terrorist tag, stressing that Biafra will be restored.

Major Nkuma the spokesman for the group said it is not a terrorist group, adding that Nigerian government is a big joke for making such declaration.

The statement said: Nigerian government can be rest assured of self-defense because it would never retreat or surrender till death lift our hands.

It did not come as a surprise to Biafra National Guard that Buhari through Nigerian military declared IPOB a terrorist organization.

"Let us remind Nigerian establishment and Britain that IPOB is not a group or organization- IPOB is the people of Old Eastern region and having declared IPOB a terrorist organization, it implies that every Biafran is a terrorist.

READ ALSO: Why we'll continue our Biafra agitation - IPOB

It is sad that we found ourselves in a country we are considered species of terror and a country we have no right to ask for self-rule.

"We the Biafra National Guard believe that the declaration is the end of the road for all Indigenous People of Biafra who have been peacefully clamoring for referendum. The big question remains; are we going to watch them implement the genocide they just declared?

It is important to clearly state that Biafra National Guard has been in existence for years and was not formed recently as claimed by Nigerian military and it is an independent self-defense group; primarily saddled with the responsibility of defending old Easterners as enshrined in 2007 UN charter on the rights of Indigenous People.

IPOB under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is the mother of all pro-Biafra groups and as such, all pro-Biafra activists are Indigenous People of Biafra.

"The Biafra National Guard is Indigenous but clearly independent and doesnt subscribe to the peaceful strategy of IPOB but fully endorsed, and respects IPOB because it is Biafra peoples wish.

Biafra National Guard is not likely to take orders from IPOB because IPOB is peaceful unless they decide otherwise- as we have always maintained, IPOB is the representative of the entire people of Biafra.

"We the Biafra National Guard carries the responsibility of self-defense in Biafra land; and we are unapologetic, we dont care what Nigeria tags the people of Old Eastern region but they should be rest assured that we must defend our lives according the 2007 UN and human rights charter.

As thoughtless as the Nigerian military; a supposed intelligent officer that passed out of school and living in a modern world to tag a peaceful freedom fighting outfit terrorist organization is the height of the joke- Nigeria is a big joke.

The daftness of Muhammadu Buhari has infected the Nigerian military that they both speak out of sheer hatred instead of reason or experience.

"It is laughable that it took UN to declare Boko Haram a terrorist organization but took a wayward soldier to declare a peaceful or non-violent people a terrorist organization.

"The Nigerian military can go to hell because we wont be blackmailed; we will defend our lives at all cost and we will restore Biafra because we are freedom fighters.

Nigerian government and her military must be taken back to the classroom or lecture hall to study history. They should be well taught that Nelson Mandela was never a terrorist; Martin Luther King and Mahatma Ghandi were never terrorists.

They should be lectured that no freedom fighting outfit or fighter has been labeled a terrorist; it is only possible in artificially created Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Turkey disowns citizen supporting Biafra agitation

"Nigerian government and her military should go to UK and ask them why they never tagged Scots terrorists and they should also go to Spain for Catalonians. Must Nigeria continue to disgrace herself before the world; is Nigeria a world apart from the real world?

Buhari and Britain should be well informed that they cannot blackmail us; if being a freedom fighter is being a terrorist, we are proud terrorists.

"If being a Biafran is being a terrorist; we are happy to be one but by virtue of our activities, we are not terrorists and can never be.

"We are Biafrans; we forbid terrorism; our culture and everything we represent forbids terrorism. Nigerian military is killing our people and we must defend ourselves to avoid our extinction.

Biafra National Guard will never engage civilians but will oppose armed murderous Nigerian forces.

"We have been labeled terrorist to enable them implement the genocide against us but we will defend our lives. Nigerian government can be rest assured of self-defense because we shall never retreat or surrender till death lift our hands.

Britain must be held to account because they are the brain behind the genocide and terrorist tag; they are backing this second phase genocide against the people of Biafra.

"Britain did not tag Scotland agitating for Self-determination terrorists but went ahead to force Nigeria to tag Biafrans who are like Scots terrorists. We will resist every attempt to implement this second genocide; may God never forgive us if we watched on while ethnic cleansing is carried out.

Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigerian military has categorized the IPOB as a terrorist group. The defence headquarters said following analysis by the military on the various activities of the group, the armed forces has profiled the IPOB as a terrorist organization.

PAY ATTENTION: Watch more videos on Legit.ng TV

The DHQ in a statement signed by the director of defence information John Eneche said after due professional development and recent developments and activities of the group, it has become important to notify the public that IPOB and its members are not as non-violent as they claim.

Watch this Legit.ng video of Nigerians speaking on the Biafra agitation:

Source: Legit.ng
- Junaid Mohammed said Atiku does not have integrity to contest in the 2019 election

- The former lawmaker said President Muhammadu Buhari may not win if he contests in 2019

- He asked the north to hold Buhari responsible if it misses out on the presidency

Junaid Mohammed who is a former lawmaker has said that the north should blame President Muhammadu Buhari if it does not get the presidency in 2019.

New Telegraph reports that the former lawmaker also spoke about Atiku Abubakars interest in the 2019 presidency saying he does not believe he has any integrity.

READ ALSO: Declaring IPOB a 'terrorist organisation' is unconstitutional - Saraki

Junaid said Buhari did not tell anyone that he would contest in the 2019 elections and that even if he did, he was not certain of winning.

He said any attempt by President Buhari to rig the 2019 elections will be resisted by the north and the rest of Nigeria.

He said: Im not a member of any political party registered in Nigeria as of now. But to the extent that the Minister of Women Affairs spoke her mind, whether as a minister or not, I challenge those who want to challenge the minister to tell us where she went wrong.

As a matter of fact, President Buhari has told many people in the party and even those outside the party that he was going to do only one term. So, there is no reason for someone mentioning to him the reason not to run.

However, whether President Buhari said so in the past, or is saying it now or will say it in the future, his performance does not guarantee him an automatic ticket and even if he has an automatic ticket from his party, it is not a guarantee that he would win the next election.

And if he tries to rig the elections, there would be serious protest and violence even in the North and all over the country and the minister has alluded to that. He told people that he was only going to do one term, but if he has changed his mind, he should come out and say so.

He also spoke about Atikus presidential plan saying he does not have any integrity.

Also, some people do not like the idea of her mentioning who she was going to support in 2019. I have never supported Atiku in politics and I will never support him, because I dont believe he has the moral standing to be a leader.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

"I dont believe he has integrity. But it is a choice between those who support Atiku, those who intends to support him and those who dont. If the North does not get the presidency, they should blame President Buhari because of his performance. He has not performed and he is not performing and may likely not perform. The North is the least developed in the country.

"If anybody can bring justice to the North, he would be elected in 2019. So, if the president wants to be returned by the North and other Nigerians, he should perform," Junaid added.

Legit.ng had reported that Junaid Mohammed defended the minister of women affairs, Senator Aisha Alhassan popularly knows as Mama Taraba, for her comments endorsing Atiku for the 2019 election.

The northern elder stated that there is nothing wrong with the minister's comment, even as he alleged that there are many ministers in the Federal Executive Council who share the same view with Taraba-born Alhassan.

He said: "What the minister has said is nothing new but the truth. Others in the cabinet of Buhari have been making such statements but in hushed tones.

It is only that Alhassan had the courage and boldness to speak out and people should not chastise her because she has nothing to lose by staying or leaving Buharis cabinet."

Watch Comrade Timi Frank give his perspective on the crisis in the APC on Legit.ng TV:

Source: Legit.ng
- IPOB has said that Nigerian government and the army might have killed its leader, Nnamdi Kanu

- Army had last week invaded Nnamdi Kanus compound at Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku Umuahia Abia state

- The group maintained that nobody knew Nnamdi Kanus whereabouts since invasion took place

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has accused the Nigerian government and military of withholding details on the whereabouts of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Legit.ng gathered that the group said it was convinced that Kanu may have been killed, lamenting that he has not been seen or heard, days after troops stormed his residence.

The statement was contained in a statement by IPOBs spokesman, Emma Powerful on Monday, September 18.

READ ALSO: Buhari can deploy armed forces to perform police duties - Presidency

He said that he and other members of the group didnt know Nnamdi Kanu and his parents whereabouts since last week invasion of his compound by the army.

The statement reads: IPOB and its leadership worldwide under the command and leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu wish to bring to the notice of the whole world that the whereabouts of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents are still unknown to mankind since the attack in his compound last week.

IPOB has been searching for our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents nowhere to be found since last week, we are challenging the Nigerian army and police to produce our leader Mazi Nnamdi since it is a prerogative right for him to make statement inform his confidants and teeming members all over the world about his condition.

For the army systematic withdrawal and deployment of police and the posting of police to every strategic places around his compound and the entire community proves that the Nigerian government knows the whereabouts of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu whether he is alive or dead because the army has done the job they were sent to do by picking Nnamdi Kanu.

"Men and women of good conscience across the globe to prevail on Nigerian government and her security operatives especially the Nigerian army with the southeast governors to produce our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before it is too late, because we have gone so deep in search for our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu nowhere to be found.

Since last week attack and onslaught against Kanus compound at Isiama Afaraukwu Ibeku Umuahia Abia state no eye have ever seen Mazi Nnamdi Kanu the IPOB leader. We also ask the world to tell Nigerian government if they arrested our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents or killed they should tell the world and Biafrans.

It is high time the whole world ask questions about Nnamdi Kanu whereabouts because Kanus family were inside the compound during the attack. We also observed that during the and heavy high handedness on Nnamdi Kanu family about 22 IPOB members were killed and their dead bodies were taking away by Nigerian army and police officers who were drafted for the attack.

We cannot ascertain where IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents are since then. We are worried how Nigerian army and police officers drafted to carry out this heinous crime would carry out would pick up our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents during the onslaught without making it open and they are still keeping quiet and mute over the whereabouts of our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and parents up till this time.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

We were made to understand on the newspaper publications that the order before coming for the attack was to get Nnamdi Kanu alive or dead, we ask if they have assassinated him with his parents they must let the whole world know about it and stop keeping quiet over the life of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The group also said that no amount of intimidation would make it surrender its fight for an independent Biafra nation.

It described the proscription of the group by the southeast governors as well as its declaration as a terrorist organisation by the Defence Headquarters as a nullity.

It maintained that only a referendum to determine a sovereign state of Biafra would assuage the group.

It accused the federal government of having a secret agenda to exterminate the Igbo race, adding that the Abia State Commissioner of Police was playing a rehashed script.

The group said, We the family of Indigenous People of Biafra and its leadership worldwide under the command and leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu wish to place on record that the newly appointed Commissioner of Police posted to Abia State is trying very hard to please his Northern Arewa masters

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that the Nigerian army in Enugu said that the military exercise in the southeast, code-named Operation Python Dance 2 was not targeted at the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

In the Legit.ng video below; Nnamdi Kanu's lawyer reacts to the alleged military invasion of his client's house.

Source: Legit.ng
- Olumba Olumba said God has not approved Biafra as an independent country

- The spiritual leader said Biafra will not be achieved

- He called on people in the region to embrace the unity of Nigeria

His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu who is the spiritual leader of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star has said that God has not approved the Biafra agitation and that it will not succeed.

According to report, the spiritual leader said he has prayed against Biafra and that it will not come to pass.

READ ALSO: We are ready to fight the army and defend our people - Biafra National Guard blows hot

His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star has for the umpteenth time spoken against the ongoing agitation for the sovereignty of Biafra, insisting that it will not succeed since God has not approved of it, the spiritual leader said.

He urged his followers to pray on the street of Aba against Biafra and instead call for the peace and unity of Nigeria saying Biafra should disappear because it is not in the agenda of God.

The spiritual leader said he will meet with major stakeholders in the Southeast region, including governors and youth leaders when he leads his large congregation to Owerri, Imo.

Eyo Charles in a statement said Olumba Olumba was going to use his programme to challenge youths against laziness and social vices.

He said: "The 10,000 strong BAYA will stage a mammoth public solemn procession across several major streets in Owerri, singing and praying for peace in Ibo land and Nigeria as a whole.

PAY ATTENTION: Watch more videos on Legit.ng TV

Few weeks ago, a pan Igbo organisation, Igbo World Congress, headed by former Biafran war lord, Col Joe Achuzia (rtd) who is one of Obus teeming adherents, was in Calabar where they appealed to Olumba Obu for his kind

Towards resolving the Biafra question, all Igbo leaders and youths under the leadership of Achuzia also resolved to hold what they called Ibo Love and Unity Feast, which occasion they aim to bring together many Igbo interests."

Meanwhile, the special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on prosecution, Okoi Obono-Obla, said there is nothing wrong with the army's presence in the southeast.

Obono-Obla said that the president has the power to deploy the military to any part of Nigeria and Abia state is still a part of the country.

He argued that President Buhari can decide to send the armed forces of Nigeria on police duties if needed, The Nation reports.

Watch this Legit.ng video of Nigerians speaking on the Biafra agitation.

Source: Legit.ng
- Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai says IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu can be declared wanted by the federal government

- The chief of army staff claims only the federal government has the constitutional right to do so

- He added that the army was not under any pressure to withdraw troops from the southeast

Nigeria's Chief of Army staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, has said that the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu can be declared wanted by the federal government. The chief of army staff also denied that the army declared IPOB a terrorist organisation.

Legit.ng gathered that Buratai said only the federal government has constitutional right to declare him wanted if deemed fit.

READ ALSO: Biafra: Buhari sends northern governors to southeast on peace mission (photos)

Buratai while stating this on Monday, September 18, after the opening of the third quarter Nigerian army conference in Abuja, also refuted claims that they are under any pressure to withdraw troops from the southeast.

The chief of army staff insisted that the military operation ongoing in the region is within the jurisdiction of the constitution.

He said: Nigerian army is part of the political consideration in the democratic system.We are doing what the constitution has provided. So we are not under any pressure whatsoever.

Many have called for the termination of military operation since its launch, especially after some military personnel clashed with members of IPOB.

Legit.ng had previously reported that the Nigerian army in Enugu said that the military exercise in the southeast, code-named Operation Python Dance 2 was not targeted at the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Colonel Sagir Musa, the deputy director, public relations, 82 Division, on Tuesday, September 12, said this when he briefed newsmen at the NUJ Secretariat, Umuahia, on the activities of troops deployed in Abia for the exercise.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

Musa, dismissed speculations that the military was laying siege on Kanu, saying that the exercise is not targeted at the leader of IPOB or anybody or group, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

Watch this Legit.ng video of Nigerians speaking on the Biafra agitation:

Source: Legit.ng
The fight against corruption is taking a new direction as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Walter Onnoghen, has ordered heads of the divisions of courts to create special courts for corruption and financial crimes cases.

Legit.ng learnt that Onnoghen said this directive is to end the unnecessary delay associated with the prosecution of corruption cases.

The Sun reports that the CJN also ordered that all lists of pending corruption cases in the various courts be forwarded to the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Onnoghen said this when he spoke on Monday, September 18, at the special session of the Supreme Court where he administered oath on 29 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) before Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

READ ALSO: We are ready to fight the army and defend our people - Biafra National Guard blows hot

He said an Anti-Corruption Cases Trial Monitoring Committee will be constituted at the next council meeting to help the NJC monitor and effectively enforce the foregoing policy.

He said the committee would be saddled with, among other things, the responsibility of ensuring that both trial and appellate courts handling corruption and financial crime cases key into and abide by our renewed efforts at ridding our country of the cankerworm.

He directed heads of courts to go against prosecution and defence counsel who indulge in the unethical practices of delaying and stalling criminal trials.

Heads of Courts are now to report such cases to the NJC which in turn, would transmit them to the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee, in the case of Senior Advocates, and Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee in the case of other Legal Practitioners.

Heads of Courts have been directed to designate in their various jurisdictions, one or more Courts, depending on the volume of such cases, as special courts solely for the purpose of hearing and speedily determining corruption and financial crime cases.

Where such cases come on appeal, to either the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court, Special Dates on each week, shall be fixed solely for hearing and determining such appeals, he said.

He added: We are under no illusion that the fight against corruption would be an easy one, as we are already aware that when you fight corruption, corruption fights back; but we are determined to win it. We require all hands to be on deck to fight this monster.

We in the Supreme Court, having reduced the pre-election appeals in the course of the Third Term of the last Legal year, will devote much of this First Term in dealing, by way of task work, with the identified eighteen (18) EFCC, ICPC, and Economic Crime cases alongside the normal Civil, Criminal, and Political cases.

We must not lose sight of the indispensable role of the judiciary in the fight against corruption.

Corruption continues to place the judiciary in the eye of the storm, but, we cannot allow that to deter us or weaken our resolve.

It is regrettable that the image of the judiciary has been tarnished by the notion that the Nigerian judiciary is bedeviled by corrupt elements, hence the need for an image building parade.

We must accept that acts of misconduct of a few rub off on the rest of the judiciary and create the impression that all judicial officers have their hands soiled with the proceeds of corruption.

Let me be clear here; it is not going to be business as usual for the few unscrupulous elements in our midst.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

Any judicial officer found wanting would be dealt with decisively, and shown the way out swiftly. It is therefore for this reason that the independence of the judiciary must be entrenched if we are to hold the trust and confidence of the citizens of Nigeria.

We, in the judiciary are fully aware and in fact worried by concerns expressed by members of the public on the very slow speed with which corruption cases in particular are being heard or determined by our courts.

Legit.ng earlier reported that Justice Walter Onnoghen directed the Chief Judge of Sokoto state, Justice Bello Abbas to commence necessary action against a Sharia court judge in the state.

The CJN in a letter signed by the Secretary of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Danladi Halilu forwarded two petitions dated April 3, by Malam Hassan Ahmed Danbaba and his counsel Yusuf Dankofa against a lower court judge in the state.

Watch this video as Nigerians stand up against corruption:

Source: Legit.ng
- The Coalition of Niger Delta Agitators condemned IPOB for attacking security agents and Hausa people in Rivers state

- The coalition also lampooned former President Olusegun Obasanjo for asking the government to negotiate with IPOB

- They asked the government to stop funding the southeast with money from oil

A group under the umbrella of the Coalition of Niger Delta Agitators is asking the Federal Government to allow Igbo people in the country to leave and form Biafra as they wish.

The coalition said allowing the south-east people to leave Nigeria would help the country avoid another civil war that could claim millions of lives.

The condemned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for attacking security agents and the Hausa communities in some of their domains in the heat of the Operation Python Dance.

READ ALSO: I have prayed against Biafra and it will not come to pass - Olumba

The Niger Deltan coalition said it was shocked to hear that aggrieved IPOB members attacked Hausa people in Oyigbo Local Government Area in Rivers state which is not part of the southeast.

In a statement on Monday, September 18, signed by 13 militant groups led by the leader of the Niger Delta Watchdogs, John Duku, the coalition said: We condemn the IPOB attack and destruction of properties in Oyigbo in Rivers state; we have warned this people several times that Rivers state and the entire Niger Delta region is not and would not be part of Biafra.

They rush to Rivers state to attack Hausa community in order to involve the Niger Delta territory in the ill-advised secession agenda of IPOB.

We are appealing to the Nigerian government to allow Igbo to go and have their independence without the involvement of other zones since they are tired of being in Nigeria.

Rather the government should allow them to be on their own, stop funding the southeastern states with the Niger Delta money.

They should be on their own, generate their funds and pay their bills. It is high time Nigeria allowed Igbo to be on their own to avoid another civil war.

Nigeria is not ready to go into another civil war, we therefore appeal to the government to allow Igbo to go and be on their own, all the serving governors, senators, House of Reps members, ministers, ambassadors from the southeast extraction should resign immediately and join Nnamdi Kanu to form Biafra government, let peace reign in Nigeria.

Other members of the coalition who signed the statement, according to the Punch include: Ekpo Ekpo (Niger Delta Volunteers), Osarolor Nedam (Niger Delta Warriors), Henry Okon Etete (Niger Delta Peoples Fighters), Asukwo Henshaw (Bakassi Freedom Fighters), Ibinabo Horsfall (Niger Delta Movement for Justice) and Duke Emmanson (Niger Delta Fighters Network).

Others include: Inibeghe Adams (Niger Delta Freedom Mandate), Abiye Tariah (Niger Delta Development Network), Joshua Ebere (Renewed Movement for Emancipation of Niger Delta), Jeremiah Anthony (Movement for Actualization of Niger Delta Republic), and Francis Okoroafor (Niger Delta Freedom Redemption Army).

The coalition slammed former President Olusegun Obasanjo for calling on the government to dialogue with Nnamdi Kanu.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

It said: It is totally wrong that the man who destroyed Udi, Bayelsa state in Niger Delta can today talk about dialogue.

During his tenure Asari Dokubo and others were locked up for over one year without trial while he was busy siphoning Niger Delta money, today he is talking about dialogue.

Legit.ng earlier reported how the federal government accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of using fake videos of mass killings, harvested from other parts of Africa and doctored to look current, to mislead the international community and win their support.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, stated this when he addressed Online Publishers in Lagos on Monday, September 18.

Watch this video of the reaction that followed the introduction of the Biafra Security Service:

Source: Legit.ng
- Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities has officially suspended its strike till October

- The union announced the suspension after it held a meeting with the federal government delegation

- Lecturers have been ordered by the union to resume duty

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Monday, September 18, announced a conditional suspension of its strike action, The Punch reports.

Legit.ng gathered that ASUU president, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi, announced this in Abuja late on Monday night, after concluding the final meeting with the federal government delegation.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Air Force trains 150 personnel to combat terrorism, other crimes

The delegation was led by the minister of labour and employment, Chris Ngige.

According to Premium Times, ASUU said it was suspending the strike till October for the federal government to fulfill its pledges.

ASUU also ordered lecturers to resume duty from Tuesday, September 19.

A memorandum of understanding was signed with the federal government delegation at the meeting.

Legit.ng had earlier reported that ASUU embarked on an indefinite strike after an extensive deliberation at its meeting held at the University of Abuja.

Consequently, the union has directed all members against going to teach or involving themselves in any academic activity, Premium Times reports.

PAY ATTENTION: Watch more videos on Legit.ng TV

According to a statement signed by Biodun Ogunyemi, ASUU president, the union explored all means of negotiation before the decision to embark on an indefinite strike action was reached.

Watch this Legit.ng video on the salary of teachers in Nigeria below.

Source: Legit.ng
- The Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Tukur Buratai says the Defence Headquarters did not declare IPOB a terrorist organisation per se

- Buratai spoke in Ebonyi state at the official launching of the Operation Python Dance 2

- He was received by the deputy governor of the state, Dr Kelechi Igwe

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Tukur Buratai, has revealed that the Defence Headquarters did not declare the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) a terrorist organisation in Nigeria. However, the latest twist is coming on the heels of the recent declaration of IPOB as a terrorist organisation by the army.

Buratai, who spoke while officially launching the Operation Python Dance 2 in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state in the evening of Monday, September 18, also said the Federal Government took the right steps to contain IPOB.

He further defended the action of the military saying: You have to get it very clear. First of all, what the Defence Headquarters did was to make pronouncement. It wasnt a declaration per se.

READ ALSO: We are ready to fight the army and defend our people - Biafra National Guard blows hot

But this has given room for the right step to be taken. I think the government is doing the right thing

It is not that we are overstepping our bounds. We are still within the limits.

And I ensure you that what the military said was to set the ball rolling and to bring the awareness to the public that this is what this organization is all about. Im happy that the government has done the right thing right now.

He assured the people of the southeast that the security operatives would follow the rule of law and rules of engagement in carrying out the Exercise Egwu Eke 2.

Further speaking when he paid a courtesy call on Governor David Umahi, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Kelechi Igwe, Buratai said the operation was meant to help meet the security need of the country.

The army have taken into cognizance the security of the people in deployment of its personnel for the operation.

The army is very sensitive to the cultural norms of the people and will abide by all the rules of engagement and code of conduct that have been laid down which is quite in tandem with the Constitution, he said.

He added that some of the activities of the exercise would include patrols, indoor battle exercises, civil-military cooperation activities like medical outreach, sanitation, donation of books to schools and others.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 new app

He pleaded for the peoples understanding.

On his part, Umahi promised that the people of the state would cooperate with the army throughout the duration of the exercise.

Legit.ng earlier reported that Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai said that the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu can be declared wanted by the federal government.

It was gathered that Buratai said only the federal government has constitutional right to declare him wanted if deemed fit.

Reactions have continued to trail the establishment of the Biafra Security Service. Watch this video:

Source: Legit.ng
CalPERS continues to thumb its nose at the law. The latest example involves its plan to give enormous power and profit to BlackRock, a financial firm that damaged CalPERS in the past by putting it in the Stuyvesant Town real estate deal, in which CalPERS lost its entire $500 million investment.1

Its astonishing to see an organization refuse to allow for open discussion of fundamentally important policy decisions, as required by the Bagely-Keene Open Meeting Act. That intransigence is made even worse by the fact that CalPERS is seriously considering implementing a strategy that would harm its beneficiaries and California taxpayer. CalPERS plans to introducing another middleman into its most expensive investment strategy, private equity. That would increase already high private equity costs and lower returns.

Mind you, this is the antithesis of the approach CalPERS uses for every other investment strategy, where it correctly fixates on cost reduction, to the degree that CalPERS has misrepresented data to exaggerate how much it has lowered costs.

Later in the post, we reproduce an e-mail by board candidate Margaret Brown to the members of the CalPERS board, along with its CEO Marcie Frost and general counsel, Matt Jacobs, vigorously objecting to how staff intends to discuss this and other agenda items impermissibly in secret.

CalPERS makes no pretense that it has any legal justification for this move. Note that the default position of Bagley-Keene is that all deliberations of governmental bodies are to be held in public; private discussions must be put on the agenda with a citation of the section of law that allows for the discussion to be in secret. You can see there is no such notice:

Contrast this with Item 2, the only one of seven substantive agenda items for which CalPERS did provide the required notice:

Board member JJ Jelincic also views the relegation of this item to closed session as bogus:

I have read the agenda item and can see no reason that its in closed session except to save staff from embarrassment.

Needless to say, PR considerations are not a legally valid basis for discussing a major policy item, which is what this proposal amounts to, in secret.

The reason this item is scheduled for this Mondays Investment Committee meeting is apparently because Bloomberg reported on CalPERS interest in outsourcing its private equity operations to BlackRock. The board is not supposed to find out about major plans like that in the press.

We described at length in an earlier post what a bad idea this is. It is made even worse by the fact that it is a bait and switch. It is inconsistent with the business models that CalPERS presented to the board at an offsite in July. As we wrote:

CalPERS will pay more in fees with BlackRock and there is no reason to expect improved performance. As the former Chief Investment Officer for North Carolina, Andrew Silton, stressed, CalPERS is such a large investor in private equity that is unlikely to achieve better than index-like returns. And its a no-brainer that introducing another intermediary means more fees and costs. BlackRock would effectively be a dedicated fund of funds manager for CalPERS, an approach that is typically used only by small fry, like high net worth individuals and and smaller institutional investors, or for bigger players, to achieve adequate diversification for small, niche-y strategies (say if CalPERS decided to make an allocation to infrastructure in Latin America). It is remarkable to see CalPERS consider outsourcing, since going in the direction of increasing its cost flies in the face of prudent investment management. It also contradicts the approach CalPERS takes in all other strategies in which it invests, where it has a strong focus on expense reduction and manages many of its investments in house because it is cheaper.

Private equity expert and board candidate Mike Flaherman estimated that even if CalPERS negotiated heroically that it would pay an additional .20% in fees plus a share of the profits. That means $50 million at a bare minimum versus the roughly $5 million of cost for CalPERS current internal team. Moreover:

it is likely that BlackRocks compensation will rise over time, as CalPERS will likely pay a much lower fee for BlackRock to monitor legacy investments made by the CalPERS team compared to the compensation paid for new investments sourced by BlackRock. Over time, the CalPERS-sourced investments will be harvested and replaced by BlackRock-sourced ones, likely leading to large cost increases.

To add insult to injury, CalPERS staff failed to tell the board that Mark Wiseman of BlackRock, who staff presented as an independent expert at the July offsite, was very much an interested party.

Even if you were to accept the premise that this outsourcing scheme is a good idea, it is also remarkable to see CalPERS considering only one vendor for it, when many firms would likely be interested in managing the program, and on top of that, a firm that has treated CalPERS badly in the past. The Stuy Town deal was controversial internally when it was under consideration, and there were multiple parties who argued that it was a bad deal .Some people directly involved say that BlackRock had made misleading representations in marketing the deal and also treated CalPERS unfairly as it unravelled. Unless BlackRock has somehow made up to CalPERS for the loss, which seems impossible given its magnitude, it is hard to fathom why CalPERS would be willing to do business with an organization that has dealt with them in bad faith in the past.

Below is the text of board candidate Margaret Browns e-mail to the board. If you look at the board agenda, you will see that not only is the item we flagged, the discussion of private equity business models, is missing the required statutory citation(s) for why it is being relegated to closed session, but five other agenda items are also being discussed impermissibly in private.
Yves here. Im gobsmacked to see Michael Klare take a relatively sunny view of the greatly increased role the US armed forces have already been taking in responding to climate-change-induced disasters. Long term military planners have been writing since at least the early 2000s that climate change would result in destabilizing mass migrations as well as conflicts resulting from more competition for critical resources like potable water.

Yet Klare cant even consider the possibility that the same factors will be at work here. Notice the disconnect:

With this in mind, a group of officers  active duty as well as retired  endeavored to persuade top officials to make climate change a central focus of strategic planningbecause climate change was sure to generate more conflict abroad and more emergencies at home.

It is naive to think that climate change wont also produce conflict at home. All Klare flags as dangers of the routinization of military operations at home via participation in disaster response is that the US has committed itself to even more misadventures abroad, like poking China in the eye in the South China Sea (which we should have addressed a long time ago if we were so inclined) while having bigger duties in the US:

As a result, decisions will have to be made about ending American conflicts abroad and refocusing domestically or that overstretched military will simply swallow even more of the governments dollars and gain yet more power in Washington.

This seems awfully understated. The endgame, if climate change is not addressed, is a US with the military effectively in charge as it becomes more difficult to deal with increasing numbers of people who become permanently displaced as a result of climate change.

By Michael T. Klare, professor of peace and world security studies at Hampshire College and the author of 14 books including, most recently, The Race for Whats Left. He is currently completing work on a new book, All Hell Breaking Loose, on climate change and American national security. Originally published at TomDispatch

Deployed to the Houston area to assist in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, U.S. military forces hadnt even completed their assignments when they were hurriedly dispatched to Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to face Irma, the fiercest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean. Florida Governor Rick Scott, who had sent members of the state National Guard to devastated Houston, anxiously recalled them while putting in place emergency measures for his own state. A small flotilla of naval vessels, originally sent to waters off Texas, was similarly redirected to the Caribbean, while specialized combat units drawn from as far afield as Colorado, Illinois, and Rhode Island were rushed to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, members of the California National Guard were being mobilized to fight wildfires raging across that state (as across much of the West) during its hottest summer on record.

Think of this as the new face of homeland security: containing the damage to Americas seacoasts, forests, and other vulnerable areas caused by extreme weather events made all the more frequent and destructive thanks to climate change. This is a war that wont have a name  not yet, not in the Trump era, but it will be no less real for that. The firepower of the federal government was being trained on Harvey, as William Brock Long, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), put it in a blunt expression of this warlike approach. But dont expect any of the military officials involved in such efforts to identify climate change as the source of their new strategic orientation, not while Commander in Chief Donald Trump sits in the Oval Office refusing to acknowledge the reality of global warming or its role in heightening the intensity of major storms; not while he continues to stock his administration, top to bottom, with climate-change deniers.

Until Trump moved into the White House, however, senior military officers in the Pentagon were speaking openly of the threats posed to American security by climate change and how that phenomenon might alter the very nature of their work. Though mums the word today, since the early years of this century military officials have regularly focused on and discussed such matters, issuing striking warnings about an impending increase in extreme weather events  hurricanes, incessant rainfalls, protracted heat waves, and droughts  and ways in which that would mean an ever-expanding domestic role for the military in both disaster response and planning for an extreme future.

That future, of course, is now. Like other well-informed people, senior military officials are perfectly aware that its difficult to attribute any given storm, Harvey and Irma included, to human-caused climate change with 100% confidence. But they also know that hurricanes draw their fierce energy from the heat of tropical waters, and that global warming is raising the temperatures of those waters. Its making storms like Harvey and Irma, when they do occur, ever more powerful and destructive. As greenhouse gas emissions increase, sea levels are rising, average global temperatures increasing, and severe weather patterns are accelerating, the Department of Defense (DoD) bluntly explained in the Quadrennial Defense Review, a 2014 synopsis of defense policy. This, it added, may increase the frequency, scale, and complexity of future missions, including defense support to civil authorities  just the sort of crisis weve been witnessing over these last weeks.

As this statement suggests, any increase in climate-related extreme events striking U.S. territory will inevitably lead to a commensurate rise in American military support for civilian agencies, diverting key assets  troops and equipment  from elsewhere. While the Pentagon can certainly devote substantial capabilities to a small number of short-term emergencies, the multiplication and prolongation of such events, now clearly beginning to occur, will require a substantial commitment of forces, which, in time, will mean a major reorientation of U.S. security policy for the climate change era. This may not be something the White House is prepared to do today, but it may soon find itself with little choice, especially since it seems so intent on crippling all civilian governmental efforts related to climate change.

Mobilizing for Harvey and Irma

When it came to emergency operations in Texas and Florida, the media understandably put its spotlight on moving tales of rescue efforts by ordinary folks. As a result, the militarys role in these operations was easy to miss, but it took place on a massive scale. Every branch of the armed services  the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard  deployed significant contingents to the Houston area, in some cases sending along the sort of specialized equipment normally used in major combat operations. The combined response represented an extraordinary commitment of military assets to that desperate, massively flooded region: tens of thousands of National Guard and active-duty troops, thousands of Humvees and other military vehicles, hundreds of helicopters, dozens of cargo planes, and an assortment of naval vessels. And just as operations in Texas began to wind down, the Pentagon commenced a similarly vast mobilization for Hurricane Irma.

The militarys response to Harvey began with front-line troops: the National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, and units of the U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), the joint-service force responsible for homeland defense. Texas Governor Greg Abbott mobilized the entire Texas National Guard, about 10,000 strong, and guard contingents were deployed from other states as well. The Texas Guard came equipped with its own complement of helicopters, Humvees, and other all-terrain vehicles; the Coast Guard supplied 46 helicopters and dozens of shallow-water vessels, while USNORTHCOM provided 87 helicopters, four C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft, and 100 high-water vehicles.

Still more aircraft were provided by the Air Force, including seven C-17 cargo planes and, in a highly unusual move, an E-3A Sentry airborne warning and control system, or AWACS. This super-sophisticated aircraft was originally designed to oversee air combat operations in Europe in the event of an all-out war with the Soviet Union. Instead, this particular AWACS conducted air traffic control and surveillance around Houston, gathering data on flooded areas, and providing situational awareness to military units involved in the relief operation.

For its part, the Navy deployed two major surface vessels, the USS Kearsarge, an amphibious assault ship, and the USS Oak Hill, a dock landing ship. These ships, the Navy reported, are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, [and] medium and heavy lift air support. Accompanying them were several hundred Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, along with their amphibious assault vehicles and a dozen or so helicopters and MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.

When Irma struck, the Pentagon ordered a similar mobilization of troops and equipment. The Kearsarge and the Oak Hill, with their embarked Marines and helicopters, were redirected from Houston to waters off Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. At the same time, the Navy dispatched a much larger flotilla, including the USS Abraham Lincoln (the aircraft carrier on which President George W. Bush had his infamous mission accomplished moment), the missile destroyer USS Farragut, the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima, and the amphibious transport dock USS New York. Instead of its usual complement of fighter jets, the Abraham Lincoln set sail from its base in Norfolk, Virginia, with heavy-lift helicopters; the Iwo Jima and New York also carried a range of helicopters for relief operations. Another amphibious vessel, the USS Wasp, was already off the Virgin Islands, providing supplies and evacuating those in need of emergency medical care.

This represents the sort of mobilization you would expect for a small war and is characteristic of how, in the past, the U.S. military has responded to major domestic disasters like hurricanes Katrina (2003) and Sandy (2012). Such events were once rarities and so werent viewed as major impediments to the carrying out of the militarys normal function: fighting the nations foreign wars. However, thanks to the way climate change is intensifying the weather, disasters of this magnitude are starting to occur more frequently and on an ever-larger scale. As a result, the previously peripheral mission of disaster relief is threatening to become a primary one for an already overstretched Pentagon and, as top military officials are aware, the future only holds promise of far more of the same. Think of this as the new face of war, American-style.

Redefining Homeland Security

Even if no one else in Donald Trumps Washington is ready or willing to deal with climate change, the U.S. military will be. Its already long been preparing in its own fashion to take a pivotal role in responding to a world of recurring natural disasters. This, in turn, will mean that in the coming years climate change will increasingly dominate the domestic national security agenda (whether the Trump administration and those that follow like it, or even admit it) and such domestic emergencies will undoubtedly be militarized. In the process, the very concept of homeland security is destined to change.

When the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was established in November 2002 in the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks, its principal missions included preventing further terrorist assaults on the country as well as dealing with drug smuggling, illegal immigration, and other similar issues. Climate change never entered the equation. Even though FEMA and the Coast Guard, major components of the DHS, have found themselves dealing with its increasingly disastrous effects, the departments focus on immigration and terrorism has only intensified in the Trump era. The president has ensured that this myopic outlook would reign supreme by, among other things, calling for a sharp increase in the number of Border Patrol agents (and greater infusions of funding for border control issues), while working to slash the Coast Guards budget.

He has also, of course, ensured that all parts of the government other than the military that might in any way deal with climate change were staffed and run by climate-change deniers. Only at the Department of Defense do senior officials still describe climate change in a more realistic fashion, as an observable reality that will pose new dangers to Americas security and create new operational nightmares.

Speaking as a soldier, said former Army Chief of Staff General Gordon Sullivan back in 2007, we never have 100 percent certainty. If you wait until you have 100 percent certainty, something bad is going to happen on the battlefield. The same, he continued, was true regarding climate change. If we keep on with business as usual, we will reach a point where some of the worst effects are inevitable.

General Gordons comments were incorporated into a highly influential report that year on National Security and the Threat of Climate Change, released by the CNA Corporation (formerly the Center for Naval Analyses), a federally-funded research center that aids the Navy and Marine Corps. That report focused with particular concern on the risk of an increase in overseas conflicts from the impact of climate change, particularly if prolonged droughts and growing food scarcity inflame existing ethnic and religious schisms in a range of poor countries (mainly in Africa and the Greater Middle East). The U.S. may be drawn more frequently into these situations, either alone or with allies, to help provide stability before conditions worsen and are exploited by extremists, the report warned.

The same climate effects that could trigger a more embattled world would also, military analysts came to believe, produce increased risk for the United States itself and so generate a greater need for Pentagon involvement at home. Extreme weather events and natural disasters, as the U.S. experienced with Hurricane Katrina, may lead to increased missions for a number of U.S. agencies, including state and local governments, the Department of Homeland Security, and our already stretched military, that CNA report noted a decade ago. In a prescient comment, it also warned that this could lead to clashing strategic priorities. If the frequency of natural disasters increases with climate change, future military and political leaders may face hard choices about where and when to engage.

With this in mind, a group of officers  active duty as well as retired  endeavored to persuade top officials to make climate change a central focus of strategic planning. (Their collective efforts can be sampled at the website maintained by the Center for Climate and Security, an advocacy group former officers established to promote awareness of the issue.) These efforts achieved a major breakthrough in 2014, when the Pentagon released a Climate Change Adaptation Roadmap, a blueprint for Pentagon-wide remedial action in a warming world. Such an effort was needed, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel explained in his foreword, because climate change was sure to generate more conflict abroad and more emergencies at home. The military could be called upon more often to support civil authorities, and provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the face of more frequent and more intense natural disasters. As a consequence, the DoD and its component organizations must begin integrating climate change considerations into our plans, operations, and training.

For a time, the armed forces embraced Hagels instructions, taking steps to reduce their carbon emissions and better prepare for just such a future. The various regional combatant commands like NORTHCOM and the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which covers Latin America and the Caribbean, responded with increased training and other preparations for extreme storm events and for sea-level rise in their areas of responsibility, a change reflected in a 2015 DoD report to Congress, National Security Implications of Climate-Related Risks and a Changing Climate.

In the past, such efforts, only beginning, were never allowed to distract the services from their main presumed function: contesting Americas foreign adversaries. Now, as with Harvey and Irma, the militarys domestic responsibilities are on the rise just as the president is assigning them yet more (or more intensified) missions in the never-ending war on terror, including a stepped-up presence in Afghanistan as well as in Iraq and Syria, more intense air campaigns across the Greater Middle East, and a heightened pace of military maneuvers near North Korea. As shown by a series of deadly collisions involving Navy vessels in the Pacific, this higher tempo of operations has already stretched the military to or even beyond its limits in various conflicts it has proven incapable either of winning or ending. The result: overworked crews and overstretched resources. With the massive response to Harvey and Irma, it is being pushed yet further.

In short, as the planet continues to heat up, the armed forces and the nation at large face an existential crisis. On the one hand, President Trump and his generals, including Secretary of Defense Mattis, are once again fully focused on the increased use of military force (and the threat of more of the same) abroad. This includes not only the wars against the Taliban, ISIS, al-Qaeda, and their numerous spin-offs, but also preparations for possible military strikes on North Korea and perhaps even, at some future date, on Chinese installations in the South China Sea.

As global warming intensifies, instability and chaos, including massive flows of refugees, will only grow, undoubtedly inviting yet more military interventions abroad. Meanwhile, climate change will increase chaos and devastation at home and there, too, it seems that Washington will often see the military as Americas sole reliable response mechanism. As a result, decisions will have to be made about ending American conflicts abroad and refocusing domestically or that overstretched military will simply swallow even more of the governments dollars and gain yet more power in Washington. And yet, whatever else the armed forces might (or might not) be capable of, they are not capable of defeating climate change, which, at its essence, is anything but a military problem. While there are potential solutions to it, those, too, are in no way military.

Despite their reluctance to speak publicly about such environmental matters right now, top officials in the Pentagon are painfully aware of the problem at hand. They know that global warming, as it progresses, will generate new challenges at home and abroad, potentially stretching their capabilities to the breaking point and leaving this country ever more exposed to the ravages of climate change without offering any solutions to the problem. As a result, the generals face a fundamental choice. They can continue to self-censor their sophisticated analysis of climate change and its likely effects, and so remain complicit with the administrations headlong rush into national catastrophe, or they can speak out forcefully on its threat to homeland security, and the resulting need for a new, largely non-military strategic posture that puts climate action at the top of the nations priorities.
Lambert here: One more example of why its expensive to be poor.

By Rana Foroohar, Global Business Columnist and an Associate Editor at the Financial Times, based in New York. She is also CNNs global economic analyst. Originally published at Evonomics.

In the midst of the housing crisis and Great Recession a few years back, I spent a lot of time traveling through the Inland Empire, a large metropolitan area in the middle of Southern California. It stretches an hour or two east of Los Angeles and Orange County, but is about as far away from the tony OC lifestyle as you can imagine. Made up primarily of San Bernardino and Riverside counties, the Inland Empire was at the heart of the subprime mortgage crisis and has yet to fully recover.

In the early 2000s, predatory lenders flocked to the area, offering dicey deals to the largely minority and lower-middle-class white populations who, unable to afford housing on the coast, still craved the American Dream of homeownership. It ended, as it did in so many neighborhoods and cities across America, in tears and massive foreclosures, turning entire cities into ghost towns of derelict properties.

As recently as 2012, when I visited the Del Rosa neighborhood of San Bernardino, one of the hardest-hit cities in the housing crisis, remaining homeowners efforts to keep their properties up were being thwarted left and right. Groups of young men and school-age kids with pit bulls in tow hung out in front of corner bodegas at midday. For every well-kept bungalow with freshly cut grass and potted plants on the porch, there was an abandoned building spray-painted with gang graffiti or strewn with dirty mattresses and empty liquor bottles. Highway billboards featured mainly ads for credit counseling, megachurches, and mobile home dealers.

Theres a housing recovery on, but you wouldnt know it in places like San Bernardinoand finance is one big reason why, not just because of its role in the crisis, but also because of its role in the recovery. Such communities are slowly healing, but many still struggle with residual blight from the housing boom and bust. Unemployment rates remain above the national average, mortgage credit is still tight, and few whove managed to hang on to their homes can hope to get anywhere near the prices they paid for them pre-crisis.

But rents, oddly, are rising. In fact, in many parts of the Inland Empire, they are higher than the national average, despite the poor economic statistics of the area. One 2014 survey of a select group of renters conducted in Riverside, a city right next to San Bernardino, found that 63 percent of tenants were paying at least 30 percent of their monthly income in rent, a level that the US Department of Housing and Urban Development considers unaffordable (a full 33 percent were paying more than half of their income to landlords). This strange paradigm, of working-class people in a not particularly desirable economic area paying more than they should for rent, becomes a bit more understandable when you know who their landlord isInvitation Homes, the property subsidiary of Blackstone Group, the worlds largest private equity firm, and of late the nations largest purchaser of single-family homes. Thanks to its bucketloads of cash, economies of scale, and creative accounting, its managed to price many individual buyers out of the housing market over the last few years, cashing in on the recovery in housing, even as it made money before and after the crash.

Private equity funds like Blackstone are giant financial institutions that operate largely outside the scrutiny of governmental regulation, since they are officially designated nonbanks or shadow banksnever mind that many of them are bigger than the better-known institutions that are subject to regulation. Most people rightly associate private equity with offshore bank accounts (remember Mitt Romney and Bain Capital?), big corporate buyouts in which formerly healthy firms are loaded up with debt and stripped of their assets, mass layoffs, and an utter lack of transparency in their financial dealings. But these days, the big news about private equity is that it is at the heart of the countrys housing rebound.

Private equity investors have become the single largest group of buyers in the residential housing market, purchasing $20 billion worth of steeply discounted properties between 2012 and 2014 alone and reaping huge rewards as housing prices have slowly risen from their troughs. Blackstone, the biggest of the big private equity firms, with more than $330 billion in assets under management, has become the largest investor landlord in the country, with a portfolio of 46,000 homes and other properties that generated $1.9 billion worth of income in 2014, making real estate the largest profit center for the firm. Blackstones CEO, the infamous Wall Street titan Stephen Schwarzman, has called the firms move into the rental business in places like the Inland Empire a bet on America.

To be more precise, its a bet on the fact that fewer Americans can afford, in the wake of the financial crisis, to own a home. Thus an increasing number will be forced to rent from a Wall Street investor like Blackstone. Indeed, private equitys rush into real estate goes some way toward answering one of the most perplexing economic questions of late: If housing is back, then why is the percentage of people who own homes in our country at a twenty-year low? Home values began rebounding from their post-financial-crisis trough in the beginning of 2012, and by July 2015, home sales had increased to their highest pace in eight and a half years. But the percentage of Americans who can call themselves homeowners is still declining from its peak in 2004, and many experts expect it to fall further as credit continues to be tight, young people struggle with higher-than average levels of unemployment, and baby boomers begin moving into retirement housing.

Fixing this housing crisis, as Warren Buffett once told me, is a fundamental prerequisite for fixing our economy. And yet, nearly eight years after the crisis of 2008, we arent there yet. The national housing market is in recovery, but like the larger economic recovery, it is incredibly bifurcated. Sections of Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles are booming, while Detroit, Atlanta, and Californias Inland Empire are still coping with foreclosures and mortgages that are underwater. One study of the housing markets in cities and towns across America found that the top 10 percent richest markets, ranked by the aggregate value of owner-occupied homes, held 52 percent of total housing wealth, equivalent to nearly $4.4 trillion. The bottom 40 percent, by contrast, held only 8 percent. Its a stark statement about who has profited, and who hasnt, from the housing recovery. The federal government is still underwriting most new mortgages in one way or another, via a multitude of state-sponsored programs and federally backed bonds. If a healthy housing market is one that is stable, affordable, inclusive, and not primarily dependent on government life support, then were a long way from there, says Yale professor and housing expert Robert Shiller.

How to create a truly healthy housing market is a question that matters to everyone, not just those of us who cant afford homes. American consumers spend $2 trillion a year on housing, which triggers billions of dollars of additional spending in related industries like consumer goods, telecommunications and technology, automotives, construction, retail banking, etc. Research shows that rising housing wealth is much more likely to spur consumer spending than rising stock wealth is. Even after the crisis, people simply feel more economically secure when they own a home. And getting people to feel secure, and thus to spend more, is crucial to a sustainable recovery in an economy like Americas, where consumer spending accounts for 70 percent of GDP.

Some economists have called on Americans to reconsider the model of home ownership as the cultural norm, arguing that it would make more economic sense for people to rent rather than own, since the former increases labor mobility and helps diversify investment risk. That may be true for some groups and in certain parts of the countryone thing we learned from the 2008 crisis was that heavy mortgage debts arent for everyone. But the American Dream of home ownership is deeply entrenched. Like it or not, a home, not stocks or savings, remains the chief financial asset for most Americans. And thats likely to continue to be the case over the next several years, since returns from stocks are unlikely to match those of the recent past. Moreover, theres ample proof that home ownership creates more economic and social stability in communities, since owners tend to be more civically engaged than renters and have a greater stake in the quality of local schools, parks, and playgrounds.

Unfortunately, the economic climate and policy decisions taken since the 2008 crisis have resulted in a small group of rich investors not American familiesdriving the real estate market and reaping most of the gains. Among them are private equity titans like Blackstone and high-wealth individuals who can pay cash upfront for a property.

Thats reflected not only in the lower rate of home ownership but also in the swelling ranks of renters; an increasing number of people simply cant afford to own, which has in turn dramatically tightened the rental market. Not since 1986 have fewer rental properties been empty in the United States, and rents are rising sharply in many cities as a result.

One worry in the aftermath of the subprime crisis is that this dynamic, in which those without lots of cash and stellar credit (which is most people) have been left unable to buy homes, while Wall Street is able to continue to shape the housing market in ways that arent necessarily to the public benefit, will result in a spate of new soulless communities owned by investors who couldnt care less what happens in them, as long as they get paid.

Private equity operates very much like the most leveraged parts of the banking industry, but on steroids. Since their birth four decades ago, private equity firms have perfected a business model that is designed to extract as much wealth from every target company with as little capital or risk to themselves as possible. The current business model emerged out of the shareholder- value revolution and the leveraged buyout (LBO) movement of the 1970s and 1980s, say Eileen Appelbaum, a senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR) in Washington, and Cornell University professor Rosemary Batt in their influential book, Private Equity at Work.; as Appelbaum and Batt put it, the rise of private equity represents a fundamental shift in the concept of the American corporation from a view of it as a productive enterprise and stable institution serving the needs of a broad spectrum of stakeholders to a view of it as a bundle of assets to be bought and sold with an exclusive goal of maximizing shareholder value.

If the markets are an ocean, private equity firms like Blackstone are the great white sharks that have perfected the use of debt, leverage, asset stripping, tax avoidance, and legal machinations to maximize profits for themselves at the expense of almost everyone else their investors, their limited partners, their portfolio companies and the workers in them, and certainly society at large.

During the 2012 presidential race, Mitt Romneys candidacy spurred a vigorous debate over whether private equity firms create or destroy jobs on a net basis. The research can be spun in many ways, but the upshot is that employment generally declines in companies that spend too much time in private equitys hands. Job destruction is particularly bad in the retail sector, although the other end of the spectrum has some firms in which private equitys overall effect on jobs is modest at best. But whats clear is that the private equity model, even more so than most Wall Street practices, enriches a few investors at great cost to others. Lets not forget that while private equity firms may operate as owners (though they often arent regulated or taxed as such), they are essentially financial intermediaries; they make money not necessarily by growing the pie, but by taking an ever- larger slice of it.

Adapted from Makers & Takers: How Wall Street Destroyed Main Street Copyright  2017 by Rana Foroohar, Penguin Random House LLC.
(Natural News) Democrat politicians in California have no hesitation about speaking truth to power when it comes to their opposition to the policies of President Trump. When it comes to the communist dictatorship of China, apparently not so much.

The state legislature, which is firmly in the grip of far-left Democrats, sidelined a resolution calling for an investigation into human rights abuses against the Falun Gong spiritual movement after the Chinese embassy apparently intervened.

Falun Gong adherents practice techniques similar to Tai Chi and Qi Gong along with a philosophy centering on truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance. The Chinese government banned Falun Gong in 1999, and since then has arrested thousands of its peaceful practitioners after classifying it as an illegal heterodox religion.

After it was introduced by Republican state senator Joel Anderson, the California resolution sailed through the senate judiciary committee before it was short-circuited, the Courthouse News Service reported.

Lawmakers then whittled down the initial resolution  five pages of forceful rhetoric against the actions of China  to a single, factual page. But just before the resolution was to be read on the floor, Senate Pro Tem Kevin De Leon, D-Los Angeles, moved the measure to the Senate Rules Committee without a vote or discussion and then shelved it. De Leons decision may have been due to an unsigned letter sent by Chinas consulate general in San Francisco, calling Falun Gong an evil cult. The letter was received the day before De Leon moved the bill. Neither De Leons office nor the Chinese consulate returned requests for comment.

As Natural News detailed last year, accusations have emerged that the Chinese government harvested the organs of jailed Falun Gong members while they were still alive. Many of these religious prisoners allegedly had their livers, organs and even eyes forcibly removed from their bodies so their captors could sell them for profit.

First launched in the early 1990s, Falun Gong reportedly gained approximately 70-100 million followers in China in its first few years. Beijing started cracking down on the movement after founder Li Hongzhi refused to tie Falun Gong to communism and the state.

Reacting to the way the resolution was circumvented, Sen. Anderson told the Courthouse News Service that Here in California, we talk about California values. If we cant stand up for those who simply want to meditate and become better people, if we cant step up for religious liberty and freedom, not just here but around the world, we have failed those values.

Separately, Republican lawmaker Janet Nguyen was silenced and physically removed from the Senate chamber last February for attempting to provide an alternative perspective about the late Tom Hayden, an anti-Vietnam War activist. Sen. Nguyen and her family became refugee boat people when they fled Vietnam after the communists took control of the entire country as U.S. forces withdrew.

Parenthetically, anti-Trump, progressive Hollywood has been accused of editing films to satisfy Chinese government censors on several occasions. And Apple is helping Beijing censor internet content by removing VPN software from its app store in China.

The late talk show host Bob Grant, whose career got started primarily in California before he moved on to New York City radio, used to say that liberals are the ultimate hypocrites. (Related: Read more about California and other lawless bastions of socialism at Corruption.news.)

Trump-hating Democrats are also hell-bent on making California a sanctuary state non-compliant with federal immigration law, thereby enabling illegal alien felons to avoid apprehension. President Trump has prioritized the arrest and deportation of illegal immigrants who have committed violent crimes.

Sen. Anderson has vowed to attach the Falun Gong resolution language to each resolution that reaches the floor. I am going to be relentless, because if Republicans dont stand up to Democratic leadership that refuses to acknowledge genocide, who will, he asked rhetorically.

Collusion has been a politically weaponized term thrown at the Trump administration, but do you think that California Democrats colluded with China to stop the Falun Gong resolution?

Sources include:

Courthousenews.com

Inquisitr.com
(Natural News) Food allergy awareness posters in elementary schools list the following 8 food products as the most popular food allergies among children. Allergic reactions from exposure, consumption or injection of these foods can be fatal. Those 8 ingredients include peanuts, nuts, wheat, soy, milk, eggs, fish and shellfish. If your M.D. tells you that your food allergies are hereditary, maybe thats because your parents were injected with the same food excipients when they got their dozens of vaccines growing up. Either you inherited your parents allergies, or millions of humans are simply allergic to injecting proteins, foreign animal blood cells, aborted baby blood cells, known carcinogens, and heavy metal toxins directly into their muscle tissue and blood, which would make perfect sense for any normal person with a perfectly functioning immune system.

Exposing the link: Serum sickness and extreme food allergies

Could vaccine food ingredients be the inexplicable reason millions of American children cant even be in the same room where someone else opens a package of nuts? Consider this: Peanut oils were first used as carriers in influenza vaccines in the mid-1960s, thought to enhance the vaccines strength. Before that, anaphylactic shock syndrome from exposure to nuts was virtually nonexistent. Nobody was fainting and suffering from respiratory distress and experiencing convulsions just because somebody ate a Snickers bar on the other side of the room.

Today, peanut allergy is the #1 cause of death from food reactions, and its primarily among children. Coincidence? The reaction surge kicked into full force in the early 1990s. Is that because the mandated schedule of CDC-approved vaccines for children (before they turn age 7) doubled from the 1980s? It has more than doubled again since then! Take a look.

1980: 20 vaccines

1995: 40 vaccines

2011  2017: 68 vaccines (36 of those vaccines are administered before the age of 18 months)

That means nearly all of the vaccines given in the first 7 years of life in 1995 are now ALL given in the first 18 months of life. Maybe we should rename the top 8 food allergies serum sickness. Then the root cause would be realized and maybe doctors who actually understand nutrition (naturopaths) could step in and do something to reverse the epidemic.

As discovered over 100 years ago by Dr Charles Richet, anaphylactic reactions to certain foods are a result of intact proteins that bypass the digestive system and find their way into the blood. This is a universal trigger for allergic reactions in all animals. Interesting. The initial sensitization involves injection, which creates the hypersensitivity, and the later violent and sometimes deadly reaction comes from eating the same food. Dr. Richet worked primarily with eggs, milk and meat proteins.

Bacteria, viruses, pathogens and parasites thrive in egg and milk, and are carried like a time release capsule in peanut oil

Peanut adjuvants in vaccines in America is a huge secret. Vaccine manufacturers are NOT required anymore to disclose all of the ingredients in vaccines, and they are also NOT allowed to be sued by anyone, ever, for injuries from reactions to the injections. The full formula for any vaccine is never revealed on the vaccine insert information page, because the full formula contains proprietary information and is protected as intellectual property.

The FDA admits peanut protein traces persist in vaccines today. This is exactly why doctors are directed to inject vaccines intramuscular rather than intravenous, because theres a better chance of absorption of intact proteins and less chance of a bad reaction. Still, no money has ever been allocated from the National Institute of Health (NIH) or the CDC to study the obvious connection between vaccine food protein excipients and food allergies. (The vaccine industry will never allow the unvaccinated population to serve as a control group for this testing, knowing the results that will be found.) Its obvious that medical extremism is at an all-time high right now in America. You really have to look out for yourself and your family.

Important considerations regarding food allergies in relation to common vaccine ingredients

Initial warning signs and symptoms of allergic reactions to foods found in vaccines include mouth tingling, itching or metallic taste; also hives. Got wheat allergies? Is the allergy really to wheat or is it to yeast protein and yeast extract, that are both common ingredients in vaccines? Just check experimental jabs like the Cholera vaccine, Hep B, HPV, Meningococcal and Pneumococcal.

Got milk and dairy allergies? Check vaccines for casein derivatives called Miller or Mueller medium, and also lactose in the Hib vaccine. Plus, casamino acids are derived from cows milk, such as in DTaP vaccine. Many parents report childrens allergic reaction to the DTaP jab immediately after injection. Also beware because there is hydrolyzed casein in the meningococcus vaccine.

Got soy allergies? Did you know that Soy peptone broth is used in vaccines to enrich salmonella and cultivate microorganisms, including fungi?

Got fish allergies? Some oral vaccines contain fish oil. Allergic to shellfish? Read this informative blog at Cure Zone about the link to certain vaccines.

Got egg allergies? Eggs are in all flu vaccines and the yellow fever jab. Egg proteins are present in the final product also.

Also, children with the following allergies should have their parents check every single vaccine insert, including flu shots, for the following popular allergens that are found in many vaccines or the packaging, vial or syringe stopper: Latex, mercury, gelatin, antibiotics, formaldehyde, fetal cells from abortions, aluminum, MSG (monosodium glutamate), African Green Monkey kidney cells and polysorbate 80.

Vaccines are also now linked to learning disabilities, not just allergies! Look into natural immunity builders that have worked for millennia, including oil of oregano, chaga mushrooms, vitamin D3 and vitamin C. Maybe the secret to immunity and avoiding creating food allergies is to never inject food proteins, heavy metal toxins, gelatin, urea (animal urine) and other known carcinogens (like methyl mercury, aluminum and formaldehyde) into your muscle tissue. This is worthy of much careful consideration.

Learn more at Immunization.news.

Sources for this article include:

Thedoctorwithin.com

Michigan.gov

CureZone.org

MPBio.com

FoodsMatter.com

Empowher.com

CDC.gov

Immunization.news

VaccineImpact.com

NaturalNews.com

ScienceForums.net
(Natural News) According to engineers at the University of California San Diego, people who are getting checked at their dentists offices for gum disease need not worry anymore about pain and discomfort. Why? Because squid ink is the answer to their problems.

In a study that was published in the Journal of Dental Research, the researchers developed a new dental imaging method to look at a patients gums by combining cuttlefish ink with light and ultrasound.

Traditionally, dentists assess the condition of their patients gums using an instrument called periodontal probe, which is a thin, hook-like metal tool that has labels like a measuring stick and is placed in between the teeth and gums to see how much the gums have shrunk back from the teeth, causing the formation of pockets.

A pocket depth that measures one to two millimeters shows healthy gums while a pocket depth of three mm is indicative of gum disease. The deeper the pockets, the worse the gum disease. (Related: Contrary to what your dentist may tell you, you CAN reverse tooth decay, new research finds.)

However, the researchers mentioned that dentists often measure pockets differently, and that the probhe can only measure the pocket depth of one spot at a time.

The researchers said that the process of identifying gum disease via squid ink begins by rinsing the mouth with a paste that is made of food-based squid ink mixed with water and cornstarch. The squid ink then would cling to the pockets in between the gums and the teeth. Next, an ultrasound would be taken of the patients mouth.

The squid ink-based rinse acts as a contrast agent for an imaging method called photoacoustic ultrasound. This involves shining a white, laser pulse onto a sample, which heats up and expands, giving off an acoustic signal that researchers can examine.

Using the periodontal probe is like examining a dark room with just a flashlight and you can only see one area at a time. With our method, its like flipping on all the light switches so you can see the entire room all at once, senior study author and UC San Diego nanoengineering professor Jesse Jokerst said.

This technique makes it possible for dentists to visualize a full map of the pocket depth around each tooth  a remarkable improvement over the traditional method.

Researchers said the results of the photoacoustic imaging method were consistent across multiple tests, unlike when the assessment was done with the periodontal probe, wherein results varied from one test to another.

Jokerst said the idea of using squid ink started while he and some colleagues were having dinner in Tokyo. They brainstormed about possible contrast agents that wouldnt be rejected by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The idea that a food could be used was intriguing, but which foods are dark and could potentially be used for imaging? Squid ink is perfect because it is a liquid and thus can penetrate into the space between the tooth and the gum, i.e., the pocket, Jokerst said.

Squid ink is a good option, Jokerst said, since because it was so dark, it can readily absorb light. Plus, it is already edible.

Getting materials FDA-approved is very time-consuming. We didnt want to create a new material that would be subjected to years of scrutiny and testing. By using a material that is already approved as a food, we hope to speed up the time needed to get this into dental offices, Jokerst concluded.

Read more stories such as this one at Dentistry.news.

Sources include:

ScienceDaily.com

Washingtonian.com
(Natural News) U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., who was cheated out of the Democratic Party nomination for president last year by a dishonest political organization, doesnt believe you, your doctor, or insurance company should have control over your healthcare.

He thinks the federal government should. And not just primary control, like we now have with the Obamacare disaster, absolute control.

In recent weeks Sanders has been pushing legislation that would transform the current system of health insurance and healthcare delivery  which is being destroyed by Obamacare anyway  into a Medicare-for-all system, a single-payer scheme in which every American (and no small amount of illegal aliens, no doubt) are covered by full-on, government-supplied insurance.

Several Democratic senators, in fact, have already signed on to Sanders Medicare for All Act of 2017, the Washington Free Beacon reports, which would repeal Obamacare, along with most other private and public insurance, and replace it with a government-run, one-size-fits-all, centrally directed system of reimbursement for medical expenses.

Sanders, who went on his honeymoon in the former Soviet Union, has the same opinion of health insurance that he holds for antiperspirants, the website noted: You dont necessarily need a choice of 23 spray deodorants or of 18 different sneakers when children are hungry in this country.

Facepalm. Groan.

First of all, it takes an incredible amount of arrogance to think that you alone have the right to decide what the rest of the country needs. This is the same approach Alt-Left Democrats have taken with other issues in the past, like guns: You dont need a semi-automatic rifle that looks like an M-4, and so on. Considering the founders didnt put need as a qualifier for the Second Amendment makes such claims meaningless and inappropriate.

But whats worse about Sanders new healthcare legislation is his incredible hypocrisy, for once upon a time Sanders was very clear-minded about what a full-on Medicare for all government healthcare system would entail.

Again, as reported by the Washington Free Beacon, back in 1987 Sanders  then the mayor of Burlington, Vt.  understood that such single-payer schemes were just not economically tenable.

In talking about the possibility of implementing complete socialist healthcare in the U.S., Sanders, in a Bernie Speaks with the Community episode, said:

You want to guarantee that all people have access to health care as you do in Canada. But I think what we understand is that unless we change the funding system and the control mechanism in this country to do that  for example if we expanded Medicaid [to] everybody. Give everybody a Medicaid card  we would be spending such an astronomical sum of money that, you know, we would bankrupt the nation.

See the relevant exchange here:

So what has changed, Bernie? Socialized, single-payer, full-on, government-controlled health care is as much of a disaster today as it was back then. It would still be prohibitively expensive, and in fact, legislators in your own home state just rejected a single-payer health system like the one Sanders is proposing. And why? Because it would cost too much. (Related: Sen. Graham on Obamacare repeal: Melt Congress phone lines.)

One thing that has changed since 1987 is the national debt; thanks to rampant, unrestrained, uncontrolled federal spending  mostly on mandatory entitlement programs  our debt has risen from about $3.1 trillion in 1990 to more than $20 trillion today. One hundred percent government-supplied healthcare would explode our debt even further.

Sanders has been notably vague about the details of his plan, most importantly how to pay for it. The Left-wing Urban Institute said nationally, health expenditures would climb by an astronomical $6.6 trillion between 23017 and 2026, as federal expenditures increased by $32 trillion over the same period.

There is no way to pay for the benefits they desire without a) economy-crushing tax hikes, b) rationing, or c) some combination thereof, the Washington Free Beacon noted.

A better plan is being offered by Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. At least with his plan, the nation wont go bankrupt nearly as fast.

J.D. Heyes is a senior writer for NaturalNews.com and NewsTarget.com, as well as editor of The National Sentinel.

Sources include:

TheNationalSentinel.com

FreeBeacon.com
The grade school student has been a patient for a while, but during a routine visit, 9-year-old Pedro finally confides that he has had headaches and difficulty concentrating in school for weeks now. Pedro tells you he worries that his older brother--among those granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)--and his parents, undocumented immigrants, "will disappear" while he attends class.

The scenario is among the case studies that Olanrewaju Falusi, M.D., F.A.A.P., and a colleague will explain during their presentation, "Advancing health care quality for immigrant children," during the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) national conference. Over the next 40 years, children of immigrant families will grow to represent one-third of United States' residents. The presentation is aimed at helping the nation's pediatricians understand that immigration-related issues, generally, and unresolved immigration status, specifically, can impact children's mental health and overall well-being.

"As pediatricians, we are tasked with caring for the whole child. And, for immigrant children, there may be multiple and complex challenges that underlie seemingly routine health concerns that bring them to clinic," says Dr. Falusi, Associate Medical Director of Municipal and Regional Affairs at the Child Health Advocacy Institute at Children's National Health System. "By more fully understanding immigrant children's unique needs, we can help bolster their resiliency."

Though refugees may be resettled anywhere, in fiscal year 2016 almost 7,400 unaccompanied children were released to sponsors in California, the highest of the states. In five states (California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Washington state and the District of Columbia) immigration status has no bearing on a child accessing public health. Undocumented immigrants, however, are not eligible for subsidies that lower the price of health insurance. Nor can they access such federal entitlements as SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps). Even something as basic as having a ride to a doctor's appointment can be complicated since only one dozen states offer access to driver's licenses regardless of immigration status.

Using Pedro's case, Dr. Falusi and a colleague will explain how immigration status impacts access to clinical care, discuss DACA, his parent's undocumented status and explore how clinicians could support Pedro and his family.

In another scenario, Esperanza comes to clinic with her 3- and 6-year-old sons, who are afraid to leave her side. Since the family fled Honduras and settled in the United States, Esperanza worries about her older daughter's behavioral problems in school.

"These are challenging mental health concerns to unravel because some families may be reluctant to reopen past traumas," Dr. Falusi says. "During their flight from their home country, children can be victims of or witnesses to violence, including rape. They may have seen another person drown during a water crossing or die in arid deserts."

Clinicians can begin such conversations simply by trying to understand why Esperanza and her children came to the United States in order to consider the range of options for appropriate clinical care, as well as possible legal services. Bridging from that more neutral starting point, the health care team could delve into her family's experiences in Honduras. If Esperanza fears returning to Honduras, asylum may be an option if her fears are well-founded and the persecution is due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group, Dr. Falusi says. Additional options may include T visas and U visas for victims of certain crimes.

"We are all aware how little time there is during the clinical encounter to have such detailed conversations. Ideally, the clinician would serve as a trusted intermediary, helping the family connect with community resources in order to best address the unique social needs of immigrant children," Dr. Falusi says.
Researchers from the Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) and the University of North Carolina have managed to devise a microneedle skin patch that could locally treat both obesity and diabetes. As of now it has been used to treat mice in the laboratory and shown promising results.

The skin patch that has been developed has been able to convert the energy-storing white fat in the body into energy burning brown fat. This conversion along with a rise in the overall metabolism of the animal manages to burn off more fat and treat obesity. The patch was selectively applied over areas where fat is deposited for examples at the animal equivalent of the love handles in humans. In those areas, it successfully removed the excess fat deposits. This is hailed as the next big thing in treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. These findings were published online in a study entitled, Locally-Induced Adipose Tissue Browning by Microneedle Patch for Obesity Treatment. in ACS Nano.

White and Brown Fat

There are two types of fat in the body  white and brown. The white fat is the one that stores the energy and gives rise to layers of the fat that gets accumulated in certain parts of the body including the central regions. It contains large droplets of triglycerides and these are the source of energy when the body is fasting. The other type of fat is the brown fat. In this the fat droplets are much smaller. They also have cellular powerhouses called the mitochondria. These mitochondria break down the brown fat to produce energy more readily compared to white fat. Newborn babies have more brown fat than white and this helps protect them from the surrounding cold temperatures. As a person reaches adulthood, much of this brown fat is lost.

One of the significant understandings of these body fat types is an attempt to convert this white fat to brown so that it can be readily burnt off. This happens naturally when a person is exposed to cold temperatures but otherwise was deemed difficult. This conversion was thought to be the treatment for diabetes and obesity.

Study

Li Qiang, assistant professor of pathology & cell biology at Columbia and part of the study explained that there are pills and injections that can promote more brown fat than white in the body but these drugs can affect the whole body leading to side effects such as increased propensity for weight gain, stomach ailments and fractures of the bones. This new method of using a skin patch affects only the desired area and does not affect the rest of the body.

For this study the team of researchers first developed the drugs to be encapsulated in nanoparticles measuring 250 nanometers (nm) in diameter. This size is comparable to a human hair thickness that is 100,000 nm. As a next step these particles are set onto a centimeter-square skin patch that has microneedles or microscopic needles. When put overt the skin, these needles penetrate the skin without causing pain and slowly release the medication into the tissues just beneath the skin.

Zhen Gu, PhD, associate professor of joint biomedical engineering at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University explained that the nanoparticles are made in such as way that they would carry the drug to the site of action and after releasing the drug in a steady manner gradually collapse. The drug stays only at the tissue released in this manner. The drugs used in the nanoparticles are one of the two agents that can convert white to brown fat - rosiglitazone (Avandia) or CL316243, a beta receptor agonist that can convert white to brown fat.

For this study every mouse was given two patches  one with the drug carrying nanoparticles and the other with nanoparticles that did not have the drugs. The patches were attached to both sides of the lower belly of the mice. The patches were changed every three days for a total of four weeks. Some of the mice served as a control group where they were given two patches with empty nanoparticles.

Results revealed that the mice that were given patches with either of the two drugs showed a 20 percent reduction in the fat deposits over the site where the drug was applied compared to those regions where empty patches were applied. The blood sugar of these animals who were treated with the drugs were also lower. If the treated mice were not fat (lean mice), when either of the two drugs were applied, the animals oxygen consumption was raised by around 20 percent. This is an indicator that their metabolism rose. Genes were tested on the treated sides and it was seen that those treated sites now had more genes related to brown fat compared to the other sites.

Dr. Qiang noted that this was probably a more noninvasive method that could reduce pockets of fat compared to liposuction. He added that these patches would not be just for cosmetic use but would be a safer alternative to treating metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. The next step would be to try the patches on humans and check for their efficacy and safety in clinical trials.

The study was supported by grants from the North Carolina Translational and Clinical Sciences Institute and the National Institutes of Health.
Engineers from MIT have devised a new method that could benefit millions by allowing delivery of more than one drug or vaccine with a single injection. They have designed a new type of drug-carrying particle that when injected could deliver the drugs or vaccines in blood over a period of time as desired.

In their latest research they explained that these new drug-carrying particles look like microscopic coffee cups that can be filled with the vaccines or the drugs before finally capping them off with a lid. The material with which the cups are made of are biocompatible and an polymer that has been approved by the US FDA. At a specific time, these cups or vessels can degrade within the body and thus release the drugs.

Robert Langer, the David H. Koch Institute Professor at MIT said that this is a very exciting work since for the first time a team can create an array of tiny, encased vaccine particles which would release the drugs at absolutely precise and predetermined time. This means that no booster shots for vaccines would be necessary. Persons can take a single shot of the vaccine and it would know when to release the booster shot into the blood stream. This would be especially beneficial in the developing nations he explained since most individuals there missed their booster shots due to poor adherence to the vaccine schedules. Ana Jaklenec, a research scientist at MITs Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, postdoc Kevin McHugh and Thanh D. Nguyen, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Connecticut also worked with Langer on this study. The findings of their study are published online in Science on September 14th 2017. The project was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Langer has earlier worked to develop a polymer particle that can carry the embedded drugs throughout the particle, releasing them over time. That was a steady and sustained release of the embedded drugs. For this study they wanted to develop a mechanism by which short bursts of the drug or vaccine would be released at specific time intervals. This would mimic the vaccine schedules they explained.

For this they developed this sealable coffee cup style design made from PLGA. This is a polymer that has been approved for use in medical devices including prosthetics, implants and suture materials. This polymer degrades at varied rates and thus can carry drugs that would be released at different predetermined time. Then the team went on to use 3-D printing techniques to make the cups. But routine 3-D printing proved to be difficult to use for this purpose because of the microscopic sizes desired. So they devised a new way to make these tiny cups using techniques used to design microchips for computers. They used photolithography to make moulds of silicon for the cups and the lids. Each glass slide had a line of around 2,000 molds that were used to shape the PLGA cups. The cups were cube shaped with length of a few hundred microns only. Once a line of cups were made, a custom made dispensing system delivered the drugs or vaccines into the cups. Once filled, another automated machine helped align the lids and with the help a bit of heat sealed the lids in place. This sealed the vaccines within the cups.

Jaklenec explained that each of the layers are made separately and then assembled. Also this new technique that could not be achieved with 3D printing is termed SEAL (StampEd Assembly of polymer Layers) Jaklenec said. SEAL can be used in other areas too such as injectable pulsatile drug delivery or 3D microfluid delivery systems or pH sensors etc.

The team then showed that in mice the new devices could release the medications sealed within them in sharp bursts with no leakage at 9th, 20th and 41st days after the initial injection. Some of these particles can release after hundreds of days as designed. As a next step the team is not testing these delivery particles with inactivated polio vaccine and other newly developing vaccines.
An international research team has shown for the first time that carbohydrates on the surface of malaria parasites play a critical role in malaria's ability to infect mosquito and human hosts.

The discovery also suggests steps that may improve the only malaria vaccine approved to protect people against Plasmodium falciparum malaria - the most deadly form of the disease.

The research, published today in Nature Communications, was led by Dr Justin Boddey, Dr Ethan Goddard-Borger, Mr Sash Lopaticki and Ms Annie Yang at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, with support from Professor Norman Kneteman at the Univeristy of Alberta, Canada.

Dr Boddey said the team had shown that the malaria parasite 'tags' its proteins with carbohydrates in order to stabilize and transport them, and that this process was crucial to completing the parasite's lifecycle.

"Malaria parasites have a complex lifecycle that involves constant shapeshifting to evade detection and infect humans and subsequently mosquitoes," Dr Boddey said.

"We found that the parasite's ability to 'tag' key proteins with carbohydrates is important for two stages of the malaria lifecycle. It is critical for the the earliest stages of human infection, when the parasite migrates through the body and invades in the liver, and later when it is transmitted back to the mosquito from an infected human, enabling the parasite to be spread between people.

"Interfering with the parasite's ability to attach these carbohydrates to its proteins hinders liver infection and transmission to the mosquito, and weakens the parasite to the point that it cannot survive in the host."

Malaria infects more than 200 million people worldwide each year and kills around 650,000 people, predominantly pregnant women and children. Efforts to eradicate malaria require the development of new therapeutics, particularly an effective malaria vaccine.

The first malaria vaccine approved for human use - RTS,S/AS01 - was approved by European regulators in July 2015 but has not been as successful as hoped, with marginal efficacy that wanes over time.

Dr Goddard-Borger said the research had attracted a lot of interest because of the implications it has for improving malaria vaccine design. "The protein used in the RTS,S vaccine mimics one of the proteins we've been studying on the surface of the malaria parasite that is readily recognized by the immune system.

"It was hoped that the vaccine would generate a good antibody response that protected against the parasite, however it has unfortunately not been as effective at evoking protective immunity as hoped. With this study, we've shown that the parasite protein is tagged with carbohydrates, making it slightly different to the vaccine, so the antibodies produced may not be optimal for recognising target parasites," Dr Goddard-Borger said.

Dr Goddard-Borger said there were many documented cases where attaching carbohydrates to a protein improved its efficacy as a vaccine.

"It may be that a version of RTS,S with added carbohydrates will perform better than the current vaccine," he said. "Now that we know how important these carbohydrates are to the parasite, we can be confident that the malaria parasite cannot 'escape' vaccination pressure by doing away with its carbohydrates."

Dr Boddey said the Institute's insectary, opened in 2012, was critical to the discovery. "Carbohydrates have long been considered unimportant to malaria parasites. This discovery reveals that carbohydrates are very important, and in two completely different lifecycle stages. This is exciting because to ultimately eradicate malaria we need combined approaches that attack different stages of the parasite at once," Dr Boddey said.

"This discovery would not have been possible without generous contributions that enabled the construction of a world-class insectary and the recapitulation of the entire human-malaria lifecycle on site in Melbourne. It's a great pleasure to see this investment paying off with advances that may one day save lives."
In the run-up to the World Congress of Neurology in Kyoto the new "Neurology Atlas" was published today. Even though there has been progress in the availability of neurological care worldwide and great improvement is being made in diagnostic and therapeutic tools, appalling disparities in the availability of treatment do persist. This treatment gap remains to be closed, experts point out. The good news is that the important impact of brain health on global health is increasingly recognized by international organizations and political decision makers.

There is no health without brain health, and therefore the prevention and management of neurological diseases must have a high priority in health policy and planning. It is very encouraging to see that this important insight is increasingly shared by political decision makers at different levels and that national governments as well as international organizations get more and more involved in the promotion of brain health", says Prof Raad Shakir, President of the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) on the eve of the organization's XXIII World Congress (WCN 2017). This major scientific event will bring together thousands of experts in Kyoto, Japan, from 16 to 21 September.

Neurology Atlas shows unequal distribution of resources

Several sets of new data will be presented at the WCN 2017 that document the importance of neurological conditions as well as the resources devoted to neurological care. A new study on the burden of neurological disease to be discussed at the Congress will show the high prevalence of brain diseases and their societal impact. Furthermore the new WHO-WFN Neurology Atlas (Second Edition) published today shows that the resources available for neurological diagnosis, therapy and access to neurological care are very unevenly distributed globally. "These new data will give us additional arguments to make the point that sufficient resources for brain health have to be provided at all levels", states WFN President Shakir.

The Neurology Atlas is a project by the WHO in close collaboration with the WFN. It is an important tool for developing and planning services for people with neurological disorders" Prof Shakir says. The second edition presented today compiles data from 132 countries and two territories, thus representing 94 percent of the world population.

"We still observe a treatment gap and disparities in the distribution of neurological resources that remain to be overcome", Prof Shakir says. "It is simply unacceptable that the question whether or not a neurological patient has access to fundamental therapeutic options largely depends on where he or she lives."

The Neurology Atlas draws a picture of the unjust distribution of resources in many respects.

For example, the global median of the total neurological workforce - defined as the number of neurologists, neurosurgeons and child neurologists available in a country - is 3.1 per 100.000 inhabitants. Low income countries report a median of 0.1 per 100.000 inhabitants, compared with a median of 7.1 per 100.000 in high income countries. There are also considerable disparities among the WHO regions with the European region showing a median neurology workforce of 9 per 100.000 while the African and the South East Asia Region report figures of 0.1 und 0.3 respectively which is far below acceptable levels, says Prof Shakir. "There have been considerable improvements as compared to the first Atlas Edition in 2004, but we have to consider that the highest improvements are again observed in the high income countries."

Neuroscience eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today

Another disturbing finding, according to Prof Shakir: "The access to essential medications for neurological disorders is low in primary care settings across WHO regions, particularly in the African and South-East Asia regions." Only half of the countries surveyed (55 percent) report the availability of one of more anticonvulsants at all times in primary care settings - in other words half of the people with epilepsy worldwide do not have access to these essentials medications at all times.

Other key results of the new WHO-WFN report concern policies on neurological disorders, legislation for these conditions, or financing for neurology. Only a total of 24 percent of countries report stand-alone neurological health policies, with a major deficit in low- and middle-income countries. A total of 41 percent of countries report the existence of legislation on epilepsy, and 30 percent report the existence of legislation relating to people with dementia. 58 percent of countries report the availability of financial support for people with neurological disorders, the figure for the low- and middle-income countries is 24 percent.

Political support for brain health

However there is also good news, according to the WFN President: We can justifiably claim that brain health and the prevention and management of brain disorders are finally an integral part of the global political agenda of global health issues. The important impact of neurological diseases on global health is increasingly being discussed in the framework of international organizations, in particular the UN and the WHO."

For example, the WHO Global NCD Action Plan 2013 - 2020 emphasizes the importance of neurological conditions and their prevention. The same holds true for the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations which, in their target 3.4 on NCDs, aim at reducing by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by 2030 through prevention and treatment.

Prof Shakir: "Later this autumn we will also be able to contribute expertise to the WHO Global Conference on NCDs hosted by the President of Uruguay from 18 to 20 October in Montevideo. We will work hard to make sure that the summit will also be specifically targeting brain health." The outcomes of the meeting will serve as an input into the discussions at the World Health Assembly and the third High-level Meeting of the United General Assembly on NCDs in 2018.
The largest genomic profiling study ever conducted into a type of brain tumor known as glioma in children has identified genetic alterations in 96% of cases. As reported in The Oncologist, this genetic information could help to identify the most effective treatments for specific cases of glioma, hopefully improving the prognosis for what is currently the leading cause of death for children with cancer in the US.

This study further demonstrates that genomic profiling can be readily integrated into the routine clinical workflow for children with brain tumors, says corresponding author Shakti Ramkissoon, associate medical director at Foundation Medicine, a genomic profiling company based in Cambridge, MA. We hope that the collection of objective genomic data will one day become standard of care for children with brain tumors.

Pediatric gliomas are a diverse collection of brain tumors affecting children that arise from glial cells in the brain and spinal cord. Despite their diversity, pediatric gliomas can be categorized into two broad classes: low-grade gliomas (LGGs) and high-grade gliomas (HGGs), with LGGs more benign and less malignant than HGGs. Nevertheless, treatment options for both LGGs and HGGs are limited, and the long-term prognosis for children with malignant gliomas is not good. Anything that can improve this prognosis is thus to be welcomed.

With this aim in mind, Ramkissoon and a team of scientists from Foundation Medicine and several universities and medical centers in the US conducted genomic profiling of 125 LGGs and 157 HGGs taken from children varying in age from less than one to 18. To do this, they employed a technique termed hydridization-captured, ligation-based sequencing. This involves extracting DNA from each tumour sample and then introducing it to a chip covered in short strands of synthetic DNA able to capture sequences from 315 cancer-related genes and 28 genes commonly rearranged in cancer.

Captured DNA is then sequenced on the chip to determine which of these genes are altered and how they are altered. These alterations can include mutations to single genes, where DNA sequences are rearranged, deleted or inserted, and the fusing together of several genes.

Ramkissoon and his team detected genetic alterations in 96% of the tumor samples, with the most frequently altered genes differing between LGGs and HGGs. They found that genes known as BRAF, FGRFR1 and NF1 were most frequently altered in LGGs, whereas genes known as TP53 and H3F3A, together with NF1 again, were most frequently altered in HGGs. Not only does this finding show that genomic profiling can distinguish between different gliomas, but it also confirms that genomic profiling can help identify the most effective treatments for those different gliomas.

Genetics & Genomics eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today

Our findings highlight the importance of identifying mutations that have been shown to be diagnostically and prognostically significant, says Ramkissoon. For example there is strong evidence to show that LGGs harbouring BRAF fusions have significantly better outcomes compared to LGGs with BRAF mutations; therefore, determining the BRAF status for all pediatric LGGs is important for clinical management. Additionally, our findings identify targets for targeted therapies and highlight the utility of small molecule inhibitors for the treatment of recurrent pediatric gliomas.

Thus this study shows that BRAF-inhibitors such as dabrafenib, which are currently undergoing clinical trials for treating pediatric gliomas, are likely to be more effective against LGGs than HGGs. It also shows that targeting H3F3A mutations could offer an effective way to treat HGGs. Furthermore, Ramkissoon and his team found that nine of the HGGs had a particularly high number of mutations, known as a high tumor mutation burden, which previous research has indicated responds well to immunotherapy.

Building on this work, Ramkissoon and his team are next planning to conduct a genomic profiling study of a type of glioma known as a glioblastoma in young adults, aged between 18 and 40.

Pediatric gliomas represent a truly unmet clinical need in oncology. This work demonstrates that molecular profiling of these tumors provides potential therapeutic opportunities for these patients, including targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors," says Priscilla Brastianos, director of the Central Nervous System Metastasis Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, who is a section editor of The Oncologist and was not involved in the study.
Captain America and the Winter Soldier Special #1 takes Marvel's secret history to a whole new level with a real world historical figure

If you know who Gavrilo Princip is, prepare to be shocked
Your daily dose of North Country news with host, David Sommerstein, Story of the Day delivers the best regional stories from the North Country Public Radio newsroom every weekday from 5:48 - 6 pm as a part of All Things Considered.

Listen on air, online, on the NCPR mobile app, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to hear what's going on in northern New York, Vermont, Canada, and beyond.
Medicare for all, or single-payer, is becoming a rallying cry for Democrats. This is often accompanied by calls to match the health care coverage of "the rest of the world." But this overlooks a crucial fact: The rest of the world is not all alike. The commonality is universal coverage, but wealthy nations have taken varying approaches to it, some relying heavily on the government (as with single-payer); some relying more on private insurers; others in between. Experts dont agree on which is best; a lot depends on perspective. But we thought it would be fun to stage a small tournament. We selected eight countries, representing a range of health care systems, and established a bracket by randomly assigning seeds.



Aaron Carroll, a health services researcher and professor of pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine

a health services researcher and professor of pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine Austin Frakt, director of the Partnered Evidence-Based Policy Resource Center at the V.A. Boston Healthcare System; associate professor with Boston Universitys School of Public Health; and adjunct associate professor with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and three economists and physician experts in health care systems:

Craig Garthwaite , a health economist with Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School of Management

, a health economist with Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School of Management Uwe Reinhardt , a health economist with Princeton Universitys Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs

, a health economist with Princeton Universitys Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs Ashish Jha, a physician with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the director of the Harvard Global Health Institute A summary of our worldviews on health care is at bottom. To select the winner of each matchup, we gathered a small judging panel, which includes us:and three economists and physician experts in health care systems:A summary of our worldviews on health care is at bottom. So that you can play along at home and make your own picks, well describe each system along with our choices (the experts' selections will decide who advances). When we cite hard data, they come from the Commonwealth Funds International Country Comparison in 2017. But enough talk. Lets play.

FIRST ROUND Canada vs. Britain: Single-Payer Showdown

Both have single-payer systems, but vary in the governments role and in what is covered. In Canada, the government finances health insurance, and the private sector delivers a lot of the care. Insurance is run at the province level. Many Canadians have supplemental private insurance through their jobs to help pay for prescription drugs, dentists and optometry. The government ends up paying for about 70 percent of health care spending in all. Britain has truly socialized medicine: The government not only finances care, but also provides it through the National Health Service. Coverage is broad, and most services are free to citizens, with the system financed by taxes, though there is a private system that runs alongside the public one. About 10 percent buy private insurance. Government spending accounts for more than 80 percent of all health care spending. U.S. analogues are Medicare (more like Canada) and the Veterans Health Administration (more like Britain). Canada and Britain are pretty similar in terms of spending  both spend just over 10 percent of G.D.P. on health care. They also have reasonably similar results on quality, although neither ranks near the top in the usual international comparisons. In terms of access, though, Britain excels, with shorter wait times and fewer access barriers due to cost.

Our pick: Britain, 4-1 Aaron: Britain. Its efficient. Given the rather low spending, it provides great access with acceptable outcomes. Craig: Britain. Patients in Britain have a greater ability to shop across providers (using additional private insurance). This, combined with reforms within the N.H.S., helped increase competition and quality. Austin: Britain. While the countries are close in spending and quality, Britain has much lower cost-based barriers to access. Ashish: Britain. Access problems can be profound in Canada  nearly one in five Canadians report waiting four months or more for elective surgery, which can be more than just an inconvenience. Uwe: Canada. The Canadian system is simpler for citizens to understand and highly equitable.

1 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % Britain 0 % Canada

FIRST ROUND U.S. vs. Singapore: A Mix of Ideas

The United States has a mix of clashing ideas: private insurance through employment; single-payer Medicare mainly for those 65 and older; state-managed Medicaid for many low-income people; private insurance through exchanges set up by the Affordable Care Act; as well as about 28 million people without any insurance at all. Hospitals are private, except for those run by the Veterans Health Administration. Singapore has a unique approach. Basic care in government-run hospital wards is cheap, sometimes free, with more deluxe care in private rooms available for those paying extra. Singapores workers contribute around 37 percent of their wages to mandated savings accounts that may be spent on health care, housing, insurance, investment or education, with part of that being an employer contribution. The government, which helps control costs, is involved in decisions about investing in new technology. It also uses bulk purchasing power to spend less on drugs, controls the number of medical students and physicians in the country, and helps decide how much they can earn. Singapores system costs far less than America's (4.9 percent of G.D.P. versus 17.2 percent). Singapore doesnt release the same data as most other advanced nations, although its widely thought that it provides pretty good care for a small amount of spending. Others counter that access and quality vary, with wide disparities between those at the top and bottom of the socioeconomic ladder.

Our pick: United States, 4-1 Aaron: United States. Singapore is intriguing, because its so different from other systems. But its huge mandatory savings requirement would be a nonstarter for many in the United States. Craig: United States. Singapore, a scrappy underdog, has become a fan favorite of conservatives. But its reliance on health savings accounts is problematic: When people are spending more of their own money on health care, they tend to forgo both effective and ineffective care in equal measure. Austin: United States. Its hard for me to overlook Singapore's lack of openness with data. Ashish: United States. The lack of data in Singapore is a problem, and it had higher rates of unnecessary hospitalizations and far higher heart attack and stroke mortality rates than the United States. Plus, the U.S. has a highly dynamic and innovative health care system. It is the engine for new diagnostics and treatments from which Singapore and other nations benefit. Uwe: Singapore. Its hard to defend the messy American health system, with its mixture of unbridled compassion and unbridled cruelty.

2 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % United States 0 % Singapore

FIRST ROUND France vs. Australia: Everyone Covered

The list of services covered in France is more extensive than in Australia -- perhaps more than in any other health care system. Australia has the advantage in expense. Australia provides free inpatient care in public hospitals, access to most medical services and prescription drugs. There is also voluntary private health insurance, giving access to private hospitals and to some services the public system does not cover. The government pays for at least 85 percent of outpatient services, and for 75 percent of the medical fee schedule for private patients who use public hospitals. Patients must pay out of pocket for whatever isnt covered. Most doctors are self-employed, work in groups and are paid fee-for-service. More than half of hospitals are public. Everyone in France must buy health insurance, sold by a small number of nonprofit funds, which are largely financed through taxes. Public insurance covers between 70 percent and 80 percent of costs. Voluntary health insurance can cover the rest, leaving out-of-pocket payments relatively low. About 95 percent of the population has voluntary coverage, through jobs or with the help of means-tested vouchers. The Ministry of Health sets funds and budgets; it also regulates the number of hospital beds, what equipment is purchased and how many medical students are trained. The ministry sets prices for procedures and drugs. The French health system is relatively expensive at 11.8 percent of G.D.P., while Australias is at 9 percent. Access and quality are excellent in both systems.

Our pick: France, 4-1 Aaron: France. It provides almost everything youd want, and its expensive only compared with countries other than the United States. (Compared with the U.S., its a bargain.) Craig: France. It has seemingly done a better job of using markets to create competition across public and private hospitals  which provides incentives for quality provision and innovation. Austin: Australia. It was a close call. Australia achieves good outcomes (by some but not all measures better than France) with a lot less spending, making it a better value. Ashish: France. Both countries cover everyone, but people in France report somewhat fewer problems getting access to care, as well as shorter waiting times. Uwe: France. The Australian system is basically two-tiered: a public insurance-and-delivery system, and another based on private health insurance, each of which cover roughly half the population. This seems to work well in Australia, but in the U.S. the public system most likely would be badly underfunded. Therefore, France would be superior.

3 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % France 0 % Australia

FIRST ROUND Switzerland vs. Germany: Neighborly Rivalry

Germanys system and Switzerlands have a lot in common. Germany has slightly better access, especially with respect to costs. Switzerland has higher levels of cost-sharing, but its outcomes are hard to beat  arguably the best in the world. Like every country here except the U.S., Switzerland has a universal health care system, requiring all to buy insurance. The plans resemble those in the United States under the Affordable Care Act: offered by private insurance companies, community rated and guaranteed-issue, with prices varying by things like breadth of network, size of deductible and ease of seeing a specialist. Almost 30 percent of people get subsidies offsetting the cost of premiums, on a sliding scale pegged to income. Although these plans are offered on a nonprofit basis, insurers can also offer coverage on a for-profit basis, providing additional services and more choice in hospitals. For these voluntary plans, insurance companies may vary benefits and premiums; they also can deny coverage to people with chronic conditions. Most doctors work on a national fee-for-service scale, and patients have considerable choice of doctors, unless they've selected a managed-care plan. A majority of Germans (86 percent) get their coverage primarily though the national public system, with others choosing voluntary private health insurance. Most premiums for the public system are based on income and paid for by employers and employees, with subsidies available but capped at earnings of about $65,000. Patients have a lot of choice among doctors and hospitals, and cost sharing is quite low. It's capped for low-income people, reduced for care of those with chronic illnesses, and nonexistent for services to children. There are no subsidies for private health insurance, but the government regulates premiums, which can be higher for people with pre-existing conditions. Private insurers charge premiums on an actuarial basis when they first enroll a customer, and subsequently raise premiums only as a function of age  not health status. Most physicians work in a fee-for-service setting based on negotiated rates, and there are limits on what they can be paid annually. Both systems cost their countries about 11 percent of G.D.P.

Our pick: Switzerland, 3-2 Aaron: Switzerland. It has superior outcomes. Its worth noting that its system is very similar to the Obamacare exchanges. Craig: Switzerland. The Swiss system looks a lot like a better-functioning version of the Affordable Care Act. Theres heavy, but quite regulated, competition among insurers and an individual mandate. Austin: Germany. Germany has a low level of cost-based access barriers  tied with Britain for the lowest among our competitors. Ashish: Switzerland. Switzerland outperformed Germany on a number of important quality measures, including fewer unnecessary hospitalizations and lower heart attack mortality rates. Uwe: Germany. The Swiss social insurance system  a late comer, enacted only in the 1990s, and financed by per-capita premiums  is less equitable than many other European systems, including Germanys.

4 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % Switzerland 0 % Germany

SEMIFINALS Switzerland vs. Britain: Meaning of a Market

How does the cost-effectiveness of Britain's "socialized medicine" stack up against the competitive but heavily regulated private system of Switzerland? Our pick: Switzerland, 3-2 Aaron: Switzerland. It has better quality, and perhaps access, but those come at a higher cost. Im willing to make that trade-off. Craig: Britain. Switzerlands system  privately funded with private insurers  is often held up as a bastion of competition. But it is not necessarily more of a market than Britain; it just hides the heavy hand of government a bit more. In reality, the insurance and provider market is heavily regulated. The U.K. system is almost entirely publicly funded, but it has done a lot to try to increase the competition between facilities, which has increased the quality of service. Austin: Britain. It systematically incorporates cost effectiveness into coverage decisions. Ashish: Switzerland. These are two countries with high-performing health systems, but Switzerland has better access and quality, albeit at somewhat higher costs. Uwe: Switzerland. Switzerland has better facilities and speed of access to care.

5 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % Switzerland 0 % Britain

SEMIFINALS France vs. U.S.: Access vs. Innovation

France has extensive coverage, with costs that are high relative to many other nations. The U.S. system, praised as dynamic and innovative, is even more expensive, falls short of universal coverage and can be bewilderingly complex. Which do our experts prefer? Our pick: France, 3-2 Aaron: France. France provides an amazing level of access and quality for the cost. The U.S. is considered the driver of health care innovation, which comes at a high price. But there are other ways to incentivize innovation in the private sector besides how we pay for and deliver care. Craig: United States. The U.S. system is a bit of a mess in that it is quite expensive and doesnt offer complete coverage to its populace. But the system really does have the strongest incentives for innovation on medical technology  which provides an amazing amount of welfare for citizens around the globe. Austin: France. Its hard to justify the very high level of U.S. spending based on innovation alone, particularly without mechanisms to steer innovation toward technologies that are cost-effective. Ashish: United States. France has a far more equitable system, with few delays and reasonably good outcomes. However, the U.S. delivers a superior quality of care on the measures that matter most to patients, and the system is far more dynamic and innovative. It was close, but I picked the United States. Uwe: France. The U.S. is just too expensive for what it delivers, and includes too much financial insecurity to boot. At international health care conferences, arguing that a certain proposed policy would drive some countrys system closer to the U.S. model usually is the kiss of death.

6 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % France 0 % United States

FINAL France vs. Switzerland: Top of the Mountain (Alps Edition)

France's system is impressively comprehensive and in some respects simpler. Switzerland relies on a competitive yet much-regulated system of private insurers. Which has the edge and why? Our pick: Switzerland, 3-2 Aaron: Switzerland. This is a tough call. Switzerland does a good job of combining conservative and progressive beliefs about health care systems into a workable model providing top-notch access and quality at a reasonable cost. It doesn't hurt that it does so through private (although heavily regulated) insurance. Craig: France. Its system has more competition among providers than Switzerlands does. Austin: Switzerland. The Swiss system is so close to the A.C.A.s structure (which, to date, has survived all manner of political attacks) that something like it could work in the U.S. Ashish: Switzerland Both of these countries spend a lot on health care, outpacing the average among high-income countries, and both perform comparably on measures of access to care. However, in general, the Swiss health care system delivers a higher quality of care across a range of measures and invests more in innovation that fuels new knowledge and, ultimately, better treatments that we all benefit from. Uwe: France. It is cheaper, its financing is more equitable, and its system is simpler.

7 of 7 Whats your pick? 0 % France 0 % Switzerland
In a new Republican effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Senators Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana have released a plan that would essentially allow states to come up with their own health care plans using a federal block grant.

The grant money would replace federal dollars currently being spent on Medicaid expansion and on subsidies to help people afford insurance under the health law, also known as Obamacare. All of this funding would expire in 2027.

Like earlier Republican health care overhaul bills, the new bill would also make permanent, structural changes to the Medicaid program for beneficiaries who qualified before the expansion, converting it from an open-ended federal health care program to one that caps federal spending on each beneficiary.

How the bill would alter major parts of Obamacare

Repeal Change Keep Medicaid expansion Taxes created under Obamacare Dependent coverage until 26 Subsidies for out-of-pocket costs Essential health benefits Tax credits for premiums Prohibitions on annual and lifetime limits Individual mandate Pre-existing conditions policy Employer mandate Restrictions on charging more for older Americans Health savings account

Repeal Medicaid expansion Subsidies for out-of-pocket costs Tax credits for premiums Individual mandate Employer mandate Change Taxes created under Obamacare Essential health benefits Prohibitions on annual and lifetime limits Pre-existing conditions policy Restrictions on charging more for older Americans Health savings account Keep Dependent coverage until 26

Repeal

Medicaid expansion

OBAMACARE Changed Medicaids eligibility requirements to allow more people to enroll if a state chose to expand the program. The federal government pays at least 90 percent of the costs for newly eligible beneficiaries.

SENATE BILL The Cassidy-Graham bill would repeal Medicaid expansion. And instead it would create a big block of money for health coverage that states could use as they saw fit. The money would be used for residents who are currently eligible for the Medicaid expansion or the Affordable Care Act markets.

Money would be redistributed among states, using a complex formula, and the funding would expire entirely in 2027. Over all, states that expanded Medicaid would receive less money than they would under the Affordable Care Act.

Repeal

Subsidies for out-of-pocket costs

OBAMACARE Provides subsidies to help people with lower incomes pay for out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and co-payments.

SENATE BILL Would repeal the subsidies in 2020. States could use money from their block grants to lower cost-sharing for low-income beneficiaries, but they would not be required to do so.

Repeal

Tax credits for premiums

OBAMACARE Gives tax credits to middle-income Americans to offset the cost of premiums, based on their income and the cost of insurance in their area.

SENATE BILL Would repeal premium tax credits in 2020. But states could use the new block grant money to create their own subsidy programs.

Change

Taxes created under the Affordable Care Act

OBAMACARE Imposed new taxes to help pay for expanding coverage to more people. They include taxes on investment income, wages above $200,000, medical devices, prescription drugs and indoor tanning.

SENATE BILL The measure would repeal the tax on medical devices but leave most other Obamacare taxes in place.

Change

Essential health benefits

OBAMACARE Requires all insurers to offer 10 categories of essential health benefits, like maternity treatment and hospital care.

SENATE BILL States would be allowed to obtain waivers to eliminate the essential health benefits.

Change

Prohibitions on annual

and lifetime limits

OBAMACARE Bars insurers from setting a limit on how much they have to pay to cover someone.

SENATE BILLThe provision would not technically be repealed. But the caps would be less meaningful in states that pursued waivers and did not choose to guarantee coverage for essential health benefits. Thats because the annual and lifetime limits and essential health benefits are interrelated.

Change

Pre-existing conditions

OBAMACARE Requires insurers to cover people regardless of pre-existing medical conditions and bars them from setting prices based on a persons health history.

SENATE BILL The requirement that insurers must cover people with pre-existing conditions would not be eliminated everywhere, but states would be able to obtain waivers to charge different premiums based on health status. Such waivers would effectively eliminate Obamacares protections, since people with prior health problems could be priced out of the market.

Change

Restrictions on charging more for older Americans

OBAMACARE Bans insurers that sell policies directly to individuals from charging their oldest customers more than three times what they charge their youngest ones.

SENATE BILL While it would not eliminate the restriction, the bill would allow states to obtain waivers that let insurers charge different premiums based on age.

Repeal

Individual mandate

OBAMACARE Requires all Americans to buy health insurance or pay a tax penalty, with exceptions for people who have experienced hardships.

SENATE BILL Would eliminate the penalties retroactive to 2016.

Repeal

Employer mandate

OBAMACARE Requires larger companies to provide affordable insurance to their employees, or face financial penalties.

SENATE BILL Eliminates the penalties retroactive to 2016.

Change

Health savings account

OBAMACARE In 2017, allows an individual to put $3,400 and a family to put $6,750 into a tax-free health savings account.

SENATE BILL The bill would increase the amounts people could put into their health savings accounts. It would also allow people to use health savings account money to pay insurance premiums, a change from current law.

Keep

Dependent coverage until 26

OBAMACARE Allows children to stay on their parents insurance policies until age 26.
Quicklink Not Found

Sometimes, authors delete their quicklinks after publishing them.



To see if the quicklink was renamed or re-published, please click here.
Progressive Content Not Found

Sometimes, authors delete their progressive content after publishing.



To see if the progressive content was renamed or re-published, please click here.


rand paul speaks

(Image by jbouie) Details DMCA



This is the cost of Overseas Contingency Operations* (OCO) over 16 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office . $1,945 billion, the number is so large it is hard to fathom. Let's try. It is equal to 10% of the American public debt, about equal to Italy's gross domestic product, and nearly twice the world's military expenditures (excluding the United States). The OCOs were undertaken under the "full spectrum dominance" doctrine implemented by the Clinton, Bush and Obama administrations. What do they have to show for, after 16 years of endless wars?

In Afghanistan, the objective is to avoid defeat. In Syria, Bashar al-Assad, with the help of Russia, Iran and Hezbollah, is about to win the war unless the United States intervenes and confronts Russia directly -- a conceivable option considering Secretary of Defense John Mattis's Russophobia, a four star general better known as Mad Dog Mattis in the ranks. In Ukraine, the United States may claim half a victory. Crimea has seceded. In North Korea, Kim Jong Un is unlikely to bow to pressure and give up his weapons of mass destruction. He knows what happened to Saddam Hussein and Muhammad Gaddafi.

As if this was not enough, these operations are counterproductive and illegal for some. The world is more unstable today than it was 16 years ago. The human cost is appalling. The number of displaced, migrants, wounded and deaths count in the millions. The main beneficiary of this savagery is the military-industrial complex.

In view of this disastrous and shameful result, one would think that Congress would follow Senator Rand Paul's call for a repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Act -- an Act voted three days after the 9/11 attacks, and used by George W. Bush to justify the invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, even though it did not give him that authority. Rand Paul's amendment was repealed by a vote of 61 to 36. Something has gone terribly wrong in Washington DC.

The "full spectrum dominance" doctrine is a failure. It was devised by psychopaths who need to be put away before they cause irremediable damage.

*Wars conducted in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Levant.
From WSWS

Democratic Congressional leaders said Wednesday night that they had reached an agreement with the Trump administration on immigration policy. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi hailed the deal after their dinner with Trump, who has overseen a brutal escalation of the attack on immigrant workers and youth.

Schumer, evidently unaware that he was speaking into a live microphone on Thursday, revealed the sycophancy of the Democrats toward the billionaire president, boasting, "He likes us. He likes me, anyway."

As of yet, no concrete agreement has been announced, but press reports say the deal would preserve in some form the precarious status of some 800,000 young immigrants who are part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which the White House announced it was ending earlier this month.

Trump, whose account of the agreement varied throughout the day, indicated that he supported a measure to protect "Dreamers" from deportation, but not allow them citizenship, in exchange for a "massive" build-up and militarization of the US border.

Such a measure would be an extension of the anti-immigrant policy of the Obama administration, punctuated by some of the border militarization measures proposed by Trump. The New York Times cited a "senior Democratic official" who "said the agreement was specific, drawing on language from Mr. Trump's own budget request." The newspaper continued, "That request included sensors to beef up border monitoring, rebuilding roads along the border, drone and air support for boarder enforcement."

The DACA program, introduced by Obama in June of 2012, was in large part a maneuver in advance of that year's presidential election designed to provide political cover for an administration that deported nearly 3 million immigrants during its eight years in office -- a higher rate of deportations than that carried out to date by the Trump administration.

A 2013 measure backed by both Democrats and Republicans that is reportedly a model for the Trump-Schumer-Pelosi deal instructed federal officials to ensure that 90 percent of all unauthorized border-crossings resulted in arrest and deportation. The militarization of the US-Mexico border -- Trump's "wall" in another form -- has driven desperate migrants to take increasingly perilous paths into the country, leading to a sharp spike in deaths for those risking the journey.

Beyond immigration policy, there are broader political issues involved in the Democrats' embrace of Trump. The moves by the Democrats to solidarize themselves with Trump are aimed at stabilizing the government and the two-party system as a whole, the better to intensify the assault on the working class and prepare for a major war.

The Trump administration is in deep political crisis, internally divided and with an approval rating of just 35 percent. The catastrophes that have followed Hurricanes Harvey and Irma -- including the horrific deaths of eight elderly residents of a Florida nursing home -- are fueling social anger and exposing criminal levels of government neglect and indifference to the plight of the population.

From the first days of the administration nearly eight months ago, the Democrats' primary concern has been to contain, smother and redirect popular opposition to Trump, while the political establishment fights out conflicts focused largely on issues of foreign policy, particularly the demand of the military and intelligence apparatus that Trump continue the policy of war threats and provocations against Russia.

The Democrats have always been willing to make a deal to escalate the attack on the working class, ensure a continued flow of cash to Wall Street, and intensify the assault on public education and health care -- all of which were hallmarks of the Obama administration. As with last week's agreement to raise the debt ceiling and fund the government, a central aim of the deal on immigration is to clear the path for the most important domestic agenda of the American ruling class: tax cuts for the rich.

The day before Trump broke bread with Pelosi and Schumer, he hosted a meeting with Democratic and Republican congressmen to discuss a deal on "tax reform," i.e., slashing the tax rate for corporations. In the wake of the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, which will cost close to $300 billion, Trump has sought to fast-track his tax proposals, and he has received an enthusiastic response from Democrats.

There are other possible areas of agreement, including trade war with China. The menu for the Schumer/Pelosi/Trump dinner, Chinese food (and chocolate pie), was reportedly an intentional reference to the anti-China economic measures supported by both Schumer and Trump. On health care, the "Medicare for all" bill presented this week by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is intended as a smokescreen for discussions between the two parties on new concessions to the insurance companies and major cuts to Medicare and Medicaid.

While foreign policy is not explicitly part of the Trump-Democratic Party deal, it is no doubt a significant, if not overriding, factor. In the wake of Trump's praise of neo-Nazis involved in the rampage in Charlottesville, Democrats pushed for and then hailed the restructuring of the White House to place it more firmly in the hands of Wall Street and the generals and ex-generals who dominate the administration -- Chief of Staff John Kelly, Defense Secretary James Mattis and National Security Advisor H. R. McMaster.

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).


The world's got 99 problems. Mahatma Gandhi wasn't one of . | Flickr723 -- 1024 - 268k - jpg

(Image by flickr.com) Details DMCA



Let me start with a scenario that I hope will remain no more than an admonitory fiction. I'm watching C-SPAN 2, when suddenly, one after another, Republican and Democratic senators start making speeches on a resolution to pile new, highly punitive sanctions on Iran for resuming its funding of the armed wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. They are doing so, because three days earlier the Hamas government in Gaza had launched a missile on Tel Aviv that, despite the Iron Dome, killed 23 Israeli citizens. As they speak, the senators' remarks become increasingly heated, referencing over and over again the misleading charge that Iran has once more demonstrated its role as the world's "chief sponsor of terrorism." They note further that Iran continues to test intercontinental missiles that can accommodate atomic weapons, and that it can never be trusted either to fully comply with the fatally flawed 2016 nuclear agreement or to permanently relinquish its ambitions to develop nuclear weapons.

Two days later, one senator, in a TV interview following consultation with the White House, says he will soon introduce a bill to authorize a U.S. military attack on Iran if it fails within six weeks to comply with this demand: that, in order to protect America's own vital interests in the Middle East and its security at home, it must formally break its ties with Hamas and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. If it fails to do so, it will be subject to American military action aimed at removing its tyrannical theocratic government. Naturally, an indignant response is quickly received from Teheran. That missive, in effect, tells the U.S. to "shove it." It makes clear that, if America follows up on the notion that it can easily intimidate or militarily defeat a nation with such a long and proud history as its own, it will rue that mistake for years to come.

From my own point of view, this exchange of outrage should be as close as we ever get to war with Iran. While the deaths of 23 Israelis are regrettable, they are the result of the seventy-year-long Palestinian/Israeli conflict, which can only be resolved by the parties directly involved, with perhaps some international mediation through the United Nations. Like Saddam's thuggish regime in Iraq, and with much greater geographical justification than our own country has, Iran is at most only a regional rival of the United States. It is competing as the world's greatest Shia power for influence in the Middle East, just as are the United States and its principal Sunni Muslim partner, Saudi Arabia. On the chessboard of geopolitics, Iran's backing of Hamas and Hezbollah poses no more a military threat to the U.S. homeland or America's true vital interests than does a neophyte in an international chess tournament to defeat the reigning champion. Given good will on both sides, there seem to be no conflicts of interest between Iran and the U.S. that cannot be resolved by diplomatic compromise. In those circumstances, choosing to go to war in full awareness of its looming horrors would be not only unnecessary and patently immoral, but also illegal under existing--though in practice still unenforceable--international statutes.

But, let's proceed with my scenario, and, based on recent history, assume that war is the likely outcome. We can expect that, following the exchange of threats between the U.S. and Iran, the talking heads on Fox, CNN and MSNBC will all beat the drums for war, motivated at least in part by the knowledge that, for themselves, a new war will mean both a greatly expanded viewing audience and a new opportunity to display their professional chops. They will again be reporting life-and-death events that are both inherently riveting and much easier to explain than the intricacies of competing proposals for the federal budget, police/community relations, immigration policy, poverty, or a new national health plan.

Americans should, however, meet the drumbeat for war with the same cry of rebuff that Bernie Sanders made famous in impugning America's rigged economy: "Enough is enough!" Those of us who are bothered by the hypocrisies and outright lies of war should make clear that we will not be party to inflicting the same "shock and awe" on Iran for its alleged evil-doing as the world's chief sponsor of terrorism as we did on Iraq for harboring non-existent weapons of mass destruction. Even if the cliche'd demonizing of Iran could be defended by some stretch of logic, the absence of any direct Iranian threat to the American homeland or to any of its vital strategic assets around the world would not allow the "preemptive" or "preventive" violent actions against that country that are permitted under "just war" theory.

But beyond even the question of international legality, both the criminality of a potential American war on Iran, and the death and suffering it would wantonly visit on an innocent people--most of whom are under 30 and have not yet exhausted even half their expected life span--are far outside the bounds of what a moral people can decently accept in deference to their governing authority. The impending arrival of such a war, driven both by presidential threats of war and the Senate bill to authorize it, should therefore kick-start the only strategy that can possibly stop it: the people's own mass mobilization for non-violent but effective resistance to supporting the war.





How and Why Non-Violent Civil Resistance Can Work To Prevent War

In considering how best to stop the government's march to war, it is of course self-evident that only non-violent civil resistance has any chance of doing so. Given the overwhelming superiority of the nation-state's institutionalized military and police power, it is in fact the only means of combating any illegal or immoral conduct or policy imposed by a repressive governing authority at any level of jurisdiction. Moreover, I think it can be assumed that even Americans who oppose war are far more likely to side with a government intent on having it than with insurgents waging violence against it in the name of peace.

We now also know from history that, at least in the case of small countries ruled by weak, corrupt, dysfunctional, or authoritarian regimes, non-violent civil resistance is inherently more effective than armed insurgency for achieving lasting political and social change. The following points help explain why. They are excerpted from a TED TALKS presentation by Erica Chenoweth, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Dean for Research at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver.

"Non-violent civil resistance" is accurately defined as the participation by unarmed civilians in active forms of conflict--protest, boycotts, demonstrations, and other forms of mass non-cooperation--aimed at effecting constructive change in the leadership, behavior or policies of a lawless or repressive governing authority. The strategy has already proved effective in bringing down tyrants such as Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines in 1986, and Slobodan Milosevic in Serbia in Oct., 2000.

According to historical evidence, the people power inherent in non-violent civil resistance is actually twice as likely to overthrow a tyrannical government or change a government's policies as is armed insurgency. Recent statistics show that no government or government policy can survive if just 3.5% of the people over which it has jurisdiction demonstrate or take non-violent disruptive action against it.

Four times as many people are likely to engage in non-violent civil resistance as in armed insurgency, and will reflect a far more balanced representation of the population's gender, age, ethnic, and other demographic differences. Even the elderly and physically disabled can participate.

Next Page 1 | 2 | 3

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
See original here

As fossil fuel-based economies continue, millions are suffering around the world.

By Jeremy Lent



Flooding in Bangladesh has submerged a third of the country.

(Image by (Photo: British Red Cross)) Details DMCA



Imagine you're driving your shiny new car too fast along a wet, curvy road. You turn a corner and realize you're heading straight for a crowd of pedestrians. If you slam on your brakes, you'd probably skid and damage your car. So you keep your foot on the accelerator, heading straight for the crowd, knowing they'll be killed and maimed, but if you keep driving fast enough no-one will be able to catch you and you might just get away scot-free.

Of course, that's monstrous behavior and I expect you'd never make that decision. But it's a decision the developed world is collectively taking in the face of the global catastrophe that will arise from climate change.

With daily headlines pivoting from the unparalleled flooding from Harvey in Houston to the devastation caused by Irma in Florida, it might seem like the United States has its hands full just dealing with our own climate emergencies. In the short term, that's true. Harvey is estimated to have caused $180 billion of destruction, damaging some 200,000 homes, while Irma's havoc is still being assessed.

But meanwhile, multiply the damage from Harvey and Irma a hundredfold and you'll get a feeling for the climate-related suffering taking place right now in the rest of the world. In India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, an estimated 40 million people have been affected by massive flooding, with over 1,200 deaths. More than one third of Bangladesh's land mass has been submerged. As if that's not enough, Africa has been suffering its own under-reported climate disasters, with hundreds of thousands affected by flooding in Nigeria, Niger, Congo, Sierra Leone, and Uganda.

Although the regime in the White House is doing its best to ignore it, these global weather extremes are clearly exacerbated by climate change, and have been predicted by climate scientists for decades. What is so disturbing is that we're experiencing this wave of disasters at a global temperature roughly 1 degreesC above historic norms. It's a virtual certainty that we're going to hit 1.5 degrees before long -- perhaps in the next 10 years -- and unless we do something drastic to transform our fossil fuel-based society, we could be hitting 2 degreesC as early as 2036.

By the end of the century -- when half the babies born this year should still be alive -- conservative estimates have global temperatures hitting 3.3 degreesC above baseline, based on the commitments that formed the 2015 Paris Agreement at COP21. And that's not including potentially devastating feedback effects such as methane leaking from permafrost, which could lead to temperatures way higher, causing an earth that would literally be uninhabitable for humans in many regions.

The likely effects on our civilization are dreadful to contemplate. Because most cities have grown up around oceans, half the world's population currently lives within 15 miles of the coast. The devastation we've been seeing from flooding and storm surges offers only a hint of the impending catastrophe. In the Global South, beleaguered by massive poverty and inadequate infrastructure, cities will be overwhelmed. Reduction in river flows and falling groundwater tables will lead to widespread shortages of potable water. Flooding and landslides will disrupt electricity, sanitation, and transportation systems, all of which will lead to rampant infectious disease. Meanwhile, even as these cities strain beyond breaking point, devastating droughts will cause agricultural systems to collapse, forcing millions of starving refugees into the cities from rural areas.

Eventually, even the most strident climate denialists will have to adjust to the facts raining down from the sky. Even Rush Limbaugh was forced to evacuate his Palm Beach home after claiming Irma was a conspiracy. But when they do, you can guarantee their response will be parochial. Wealthier cities will begin massive investments in building barricades, improving infrastructure, even moving to higher land, to defend themselves against the climate cataclysm. That's known in climate change circles as "adaptation." In more rational parts of the rich world, cities such as London and Rotterdam are already doing it.

However, effective adaptation isn't an option for the megacities of the Global South, which are already floundering from inadequate resources, and where hundreds of millions are forced to subsist, undernourished and vulnerable, in shanty towns. A central part of the Paris Agreement, which Trump recently rejected, was a Green Climate Fund that is supposed to receive $100 billion annually by 2020 from developed countries to aid the rest of the world in mitigating and adapting to climate change. So far, only $10 billion has been pledged, $3 billion of which is the US portion that Trump has vowed not to increase. It's hard to see even a small fraction of that $100 billion annual payment actually coming through.

Yet it's the developed world that created this climate mess in the first place. With just 15% of the world's population, developed countries have been responsible for 58% of human-caused greenhouse gases. All that fossil fuel energy is what permitted them to industrialize and thus become "developed," to the point that they're now consuming 80% of the world's resources, leaving the poorest three billion in the Global South to survive on less than $2 per day. That doesn't leave much change for climate adaptation.

That's why the inadequate response of the rich world to climate disruption is like that driver choosing to plunge straight into the crowd rather than swerving and risk damaging their shiny new car. What would it take to put the brakes on in time to avoid climate catastrophe?

There is hopeful news about the spectacular rise of renewables, surprising experts with the speed with which they are replacing fossil fuels around the world. But while that's an essential part of a solution, modern renewables still account for just 10% of global energy production, which in turn contributes no more than 25% of total greenhouse emissions. Halting the slide to disaster requires something far more extensive: a complete transformation of our current economic system.

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
From Truthdig



(Image by Mr. Fish / Truthdig) Details DMCA



The ruling elites, who grasp that the reigning ideology of global corporate capitalism and imperial expansion no longer has moral or intellectual credibility, have mounted a campaign to shut down the platforms given to their critics. The attacks within this campaign include blacklisting, censorship and slandering dissidents as foreign agents for Russia and purveyors of "fake news."

No dominant class can long retain control when the credibility of the ideas that justify its existence evaporates. It is forced, at that point, to resort to crude forms of coercion, intimidation and censorship. This ideological collapse in the United States has transformed those of us who attack the corporate state into a potent threat, not because we reach large numbers of people, and certainly not because we spread Russian propaganda, but because the elites no longer have a plausible counterargument.

The elites face an unpleasant choice. They could impose harsh controls to protect the status quo or veer leftward toward socialism to ameliorate the mounting economic and political injustices endured by most of the population. But a move leftward, essentially reinstating and expanding the New Deal programs they have destroyed, would impede corporate power and corporate profits. So instead the elites, including the Democratic Party leadership, have decided to quash public debate. The tactic they are using is as old as the nation-state -- smearing critics as traitors who are in the service of a hostile foreign power. Tens of thousands of people of conscience were blacklisted in this way during the Red Scares of the 1920s and the 1950s. The current hyperbolic and relentless focus on Russia, embraced with gusto by "liberal" media outlets such as The New York Times and MSNBC, has unleashed what some have called a virulent "New McCarthyism."

The corporate elites do not fear Russia. There is no publicly disclosed evidence that Russia swung the election to Donald Trump. Nor does Russia appear to be intent on a military confrontation with the United States. I am certain Russia tries to meddle in U.S. affairs to its advantage, as we do and did in Russia -- including our clandestine bankrolling of Boris Yeltsin, whose successful 1996 campaign for re-election as president is estimated to have cost up to $2.5 billion, much of that money coming indirectly from the American government. In today's media environment Russia is the foil. The corporate state is unnerved by the media outlets that give a voice to critics of corporate capitalism, the security and surveillance state and imperialism, including the network RT America.

My show on RT America, "On Contact," like my columns at Truthdig, amplifies the voices of these dissidents -- Tariq Ali, Kshama Sawant, Mumia Abu-Jamal, Medea Benjamin, Ajamu Baraka, Noam Chomsky, Dr. Margaret Flowers, Rania Khalek, Amira Hass, Miko Peled, Abby Martin, Glen Ford, Max Blumenthal, Pam Africa, Linh Dinh, Ben Norton, Eugene Puryear, Allan Nairn, Jill Stein, Kevin Zeese and others. These dissidents, if we had a functioning public broadcasting system or a commercial press free of corporate control, would be included in the mainstream discourse. They are not bought and paid for. They have integrity, courage and often brilliance. They are honest. For these reasons, in the eyes of the corporate state, they are very dangerous.

The first and deadliest salvo in the war on dissent came in 1971 when Lewis Powell, a corporate attorney and later a Supreme Court justice, wrote and circulated a memo among business leaders called "Attack on American Free Enterprise System." It became the blueprint for the corporate coup d'e'tat. Corporations, as Powell recommended in the document, poured hundreds of millions of dollars into the assault, financing pro-business political candidates, mounting campaigns against the liberal wing of the Democratic Party and the press and creating institutions such as the Business Roundtable, The Heritage Foundation, the Manhattan Institute, the Cato Institute, Citizens for a Sound Economy, the Federalist Society and Accuracy in Academia. The memo argued that corporations had to fund sustained campaigns to marginalize or silence those who in "the college campus, the pulpit, the media, and the intellectual and literary journals" were hostile to corporate interests.

Powell attacked Ralph Nader by name. Lobbyists flooded Washington and state capitals. Regulatory controls were abolished. Massive tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy were implemented, culminating in a de facto tax boycott. Trade barriers were lifted and the country's manufacturing base was destroyed. Social programs were slashed and funds for infrastructure, from roads and bridges to public libraries and schools, were cut. Protections for workers were gutted. Wages declined or stagnated. The military budget, along with the organs of internal security, became ever more bloated. A de facto blacklist, especially in universities and the press, was used to discredit intellectuals, radicals and activists who decried the idea of the nation prostrating itself before the dictates of the marketplace and condemned the crimes of imperialism, some of the best known being Howard Zinn, Noam Chomsky, Sheldon Wolin, Ward Churchill, Nader, Angela Davis and Edward Said. These critics were permitted to exist only on the margins of society, often outside of institutions, and many had trouble making a living.

The financial meltdown of 2008 not only devastated the global economy, it exposed the lies propagated by those advocating globalization. Among these lies: that salaries of workers would rise, democracy would spread across the globe, the tech industry would replace manufacturing as a source of worker income, the middle class would flourish, and global communities would prosper. After 2008 it became clear that the "free market" is a scam, a zombie ideology by which workers and communities are ravaged by predatory capitalists and assets are funneled upward into the hands of the global 1 percent. The endless wars, fought largely to enrich the arms industry and swell the power of the military, are futile and counterproductive to national interests. Deindustrialization and austerity programs have impoverished the working class and fatally damaged the economy.

The establishment politicians in the two leading parties, each in service to corporate power and responsible for the assault on civil liberties and impoverishment of the country, are no longer able to use identity politics and the culture wars to whip up support, leading in the last presidential election campaign to an insurgency by Bernie Sanders, which the Democratic Party crushed, and the election of Donald Trump.

Barack Obama rode a wave of bipartisan resentment into office in 2008, then spent eight years betraying the public. Obama's assault on civil liberties, including his use of the Espionage Act to prosecute whistleblowers, was worse than those carried out by George W. Bush. He accelerated the war on public education by privatizing schools, expanded the wars in the Middle East, including the use of militarized drone attacks, provided little meaningful environmental reform, ignored the plight of the working class, deported more undocumented people than any other president, imposed a corporate-sponsored health care program that was the brainchild of the right-wing Heritage Foundation, and prohibited the Justice Department from prosecuting the bankers and financial firms that carried out derivatives scams and inflated the housing and real estate market, a condition that led to the 2008 financial meltdown. He epitomized, like Bill Clinton, the bankruptcy of the Democratic Party. Clinton, outdoing Obama's later actions, gave us the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the dismantling of the welfare system, the deregulation of the financial services industry and the huge expansion of mass incarceration. Clinton also oversaw deregulation of the Federal Communications Commission, a change that allowed a handful of corporations to buy up the airwaves.

The corporate state was in crisis at the end of the Obama presidency. It was widely hated. It became vulnerable to attacks by the critics it had pushed to the fringes. Most vulnerable was the Democratic Party establishment, which claims to defend the rights of working men and women and protect civil liberties. This is why the Democratic Party is so zealous in its efforts to discredit its critics as stooges for Moscow and to charge that Russian interference caused its election defeat.

In January 2017 there was a report on Russia by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The report devoted seven of its 25 pages to RT America and its influence on the presidential election. It claimed "Russian media made increasingly favorable comments about President-elect Trump as the 2016 US general and primary election campaigns progressed while consistently offering negative coverage of Secretary [Hillary] Clinton." This might seem true if you did not watch my RT broadcasts, which relentlessly attacked Trump as well as Clinton, or watch Ed Schultz, who now has a program on RT after having been the host of an MSNBC commentary program. The report also attempted to present RT America as having a vast media footprint and influence it does not possess.

"In an effort to highlight the alleged 'lack of democracy' in the United States, RT broadcast, hosted, and advertised third party candidate debates and ran reporting supportive of the political agenda of these candidates," the report read, correctly summing up themes on my show. "The RT hosts asserted that the US two-party system does not represent the views of at least one-third of the population and is a 'sham.'"

It went on:

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com.

The United States just experienced its largest rainfall event in memory. For the first time in recorded weather history, two category 4 hurricanes, Harvey and Irma, hit in a single season (not yet over). And San Francisco, famed for its chilliness, experienced an unheard of 106 degree day as September began, while a record West Coast heat wave, essentially an unending Irma or Harvey of wildfires, left parts of the region, from Los Angeles to British Columbia, enwreathed in a pall of smoke and ash (without even an El Nino year to blame for it). And did I mention that both states hit by those recent hurricanes have climate-change denying governors? Or that the man now in charge in Washington also denies the reality of climate change (a Chinese hoax!) and has stocked his administration with a remarkable cast of fervent deniers (the latest such appointment being the head of NASA), who have essentially wiped all references to the phenomenon off every imaginable federal website, fired climate-change scientists, and -- as a crew regularly backed in their careers by big energy -- seem intent on recreating the fossil-fueled America of The Donald's 1950s childhood.

Fortunately, as TomDispatchregular Michael Klare tells us today, the cavalry is riding to the rescue -- more or less literally. In a government shutting down anything faintly connected to global warming, only one institution isn't now run by deniers and that's the U.S. military. As Klare points out, its high command is still planning for a radically climate-changed planet. Unfortunately, we're talking about the same institution whose generals have been in a "generational struggle" to win even one of the endless wars they've launched or wandered into since 9/11. They belong to an institution, the Pentagon, that has gobbled up almost unimaginable sums of taxpayer dollars, without in those same years even being capable of successfully auditing itself. In other words, our potential saviors, at a moment when the very environment that has for millennia welcomed humanity is up for grabs, might be thought of as the Keystone Cops of the twenty-first century. Tom

Beyond Harvey and Irma

Militarizing Homeland Security in the Climate-Change Era

By Michael T. Klare

Deployed to the Houston area to assist in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, U.S. military forces hadn't even completed their assignments when they were hurriedly dispatched to Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to face Irma, the fiercest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean. Florida Governor Rick Scott, who had sent members of the state National Guard to devastated Houston, anxiously recalled them while putting in place emergency measures for his own state. A small flotilla of naval vessels, originally sent to waters off Texas, was similarly redirected to the Caribbean, while specialized combat units drawn from as far afield as Colorado, Illinois, and Rhode Island were rushed to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, members of the California National Guard were being mobilized to fight wildfires raging across that state (as across much of the West) during its hottest summer on record.

Think of this as the new face of homeland security: containing the damage to America's seacoasts, forests, and other vulnerable areas caused by extreme weather events made all the more frequent and destructive thanks to climate change. This is a "war" that won't have a name -- not yet, not in the Trump era, but it will be no less real for that. "The firepower of the federal government" was being trained on Harvey, as William Brock Long, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), put it in a blunt expression of this warlike approach. But don't expect any of the military officials involved in such efforts to identify climate change as the source of their new strategic orientation, not while Commander in Chief Donald Trump sits in the Oval Office refusing to acknowledge the reality of global warming or its role in heightening the intensity of major storms; not while he continues to stock his administration, top to bottom, with climate-change deniers.

Until Trump moved into the White House, however, senior military officers in the Pentagon were speaking openly of the threats posed to American security by climate change and how that phenomenon might alter the very nature of their work. Though mum's the word today, since the early years of this century military officials have regularly focused on and discussed such matters, issuing striking warnings about an impending increase in extreme weather events -- hurricanes, incessant rainfalls, protracted heat waves, and droughts -- and ways in which that would mean an ever-expanding domestic role for the military in both disaster response and planning for an extreme future.

That future, of course, is now. Like other well-informed people, senior military officials are perfectly aware that it's difficult to attribute any given storm, Harvey and Irma included, to human-caused climate change with 100% confidence. But they also know that hurricanes draw their fierce energy from the heat of tropical waters, and that global warming is raising the temperatures of those waters. It's making storms like Harvey and Irma, when they do occur, ever more powerful and destructive. "As greenhouse gas emissions increase, sea levels are rising, average global temperatures increasing, and severe weather patterns are accelerating," the Department of Defense (DoD) bluntly explained in the Quadrennial Defense Review, a 2014 synopsis of defense policy. This, it added, "may increase the frequency, scale, and complexity of future missions, including defense support to civil authorities" -- just the sort of crisis we've been witnessing over these last weeks.

As this statement suggests, any increase in climate-related extreme events striking U.S. territory will inevitably lead to a commensurate rise in American military support for civilian agencies, diverting key assets -- troops and equipment -- from elsewhere. While the Pentagon can certainly devote substantial capabilities to a small number of short-term emergencies, the multiplication and prolongation of such events, now clearly beginning to occur, will require a substantial commitment of forces, which, in time, will mean a major reorientation of U.S. security policy for the climate change era. This may not be something the White House is prepared to do today, but it may soon find itself with little choice, especially since it seems so intent on crippling all civilian governmental efforts related to climate change.

Mobilizing for Harvey and Irma

When it came to emergency operations in Texas and Florida, the media understandably put its spotlight on moving tales of rescue efforts by ordinary folks. As a result, the military's role in these operations was easy to miss, but it took place on a massive scale. Every branch of the armed services -- the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard -- deployed significant contingents to the Houston area, in some cases sending along the sort of specialized equipment normally used in major combat operations. The combined response represented an extraordinary commitment of military assets to that desperate, massively flooded region: tens of thousands of National Guard and active-duty troops, thousands of Humvees and other military vehicles, hundreds of helicopters, dozens of cargo planes, and an assortment of naval vessels. And just as operations in Texas began to wind down, the Pentagon commenced a similarly vast mobilization for Hurricane Irma.

The military's response to Harvey began with front-line troops: the National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, and units of the U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), the joint-service force responsible for homeland defense. Texas Governor Greg Abbott mobilized the entire Texas National Guard, about 10,000 strong, and guard contingents were deployed from other states as well. The Texas Guard came equipped with its own complement of helicopters, Humvees, and other all-terrain vehicles; the Coast Guard supplied 46 helicopters and dozens of shallow-water vessels, while USNORTHCOM provided 87 helicopters, four C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft, and 100 high-water vehicles.

Still more aircraft were provided by the Air Force, including seven C-17 cargo planes and, in a highly unusual move, an E-3A Sentry airborne warning and control system, or AWACS. This super-sophisticated aircraft was originally designed to oversee air combat operations in Europe in the event of an all-out war with the Soviet Union. Instead, this particular AWACS conducted air traffic control and surveillance around Houston, gathering data on flooded areas, and providing "situational awareness" to military units involved in the relief operation.

For its part, the Navy deployed two major surface vessels, the USS Kearsarge, an amphibious assault ship, and the USS Oak Hill, a dock landing ship. "These ships," the Navy reported, "are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, [and] medium and heavy lift air support." Accompanying them were several hundred Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, along with their amphibious assault vehicles and a dozen or so helicopters and MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.

When Irma struck, the Pentagon ordered a similar mobilization of troops and equipment. The Kearsarge and the Oak Hill, with their embarked Marines and helicopters, were redirected from Houston to waters off Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. At the same time, the Navy dispatched a much larger flotilla, including the USS Abraham Lincoln (the aircraft carrier on which President George W. Bush had his infamous "mission accomplished" moment), the missile destroyer USS Farragut, the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima, and the amphibious transport dock USS New York. Instead of its usual complement of fighter jets, the Abraham Lincoln set sail from its base in Norfolk, Virginia, with heavy-lift helicopters; the Iwo Jima and New York also carried a range of helicopters for relief operations. Another amphibious vessel, the USS Wasp, was already off the Virgin Islands, providing supplies and evacuating those in need of emergency medical care.

This represents the sort of mobilization you would expect for a small war and is characteristic of how, in the past, the U.S. military has responded to major domestic disasters like hurricanes Katrina (2003) and Sandy (2012). Such events were once rarities and so weren't viewed as major impediments to the carrying out of the military's "normal" function: fighting the nation's foreign wars. However, thanks to the way climate change is intensifying the weather, disasters of this magnitude are starting to occur more frequently and on an ever-larger scale. As a result, the previously peripheral mission of disaster relief is threatening to become a primary one for an already overstretched Pentagon and, as top military officials are aware, the future only holds promise of far more of the same. Think of this as the new face of "war," American-style.
Bitcoin has been taking a beating in the media latelyas JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon called it a fraud last week, and plenty of other finance guys piled on. This came on the heels of the Peoples Bank of China shutting down/suspending a couple of bitcoin exchanges, and the news today makes it look like the government is ready to take their assault on the cryptocurrency a step further. Per The Wall Street Journal:

Officials communicated the message to several industry executives at a closed-door meeting in Beijing on Friday, according to people who were at the meeting. Until last week, many entrepreneurs in Chinas bitcoin circles had thought authorities might shut down only commercial trading activity while tolerating peer-to-peer, or over-the-counter, bitcoin platforms, which enable buyers and sellers to find each other and trade directly.

Word of a more serious tightening spread after the meeting and at least one Chinese platform last week announced it would halt one-on-one trading services per official instructions. The Chinese plan represents some of the most draconian measures any government has taken to control bitcoin.

The decentralized nature of bitcoin is such that it is impossible to ban the cryptocurrency, but if you shut down exchanges and the peer-to-peer economy running on bitcoin, its a de facto ban. Just look at what they did to Google. The central platform of the most expansive company in the history of mankind is virtually inaccessible in Chinaas its search engine commands less than 2% market share at this moment, compared to 36% before they banned it.

This is what China does. Instead of Google, Baidu is their monolith. Instead of Amazon, they have Alibaba. The Chinese economy is completely managed by the government, and the central thesis of bitcoina currency that does not require a central issueris a direct threat to their model. They included cryptocurrency in their 13th Five Year Planwhich means this tech is coming to Chinabut given their history, it will be Chinese government-approved cryptocurrency (meaning that the most vast surveillance state in the world will have access to personal information that cryptocurrency was designed to protect).

However, despite all this chaos, bitcoins price has remained within range of its all-time high of $5,000 (it was around $1,000 at the beginning of the year). After weeks of rumors and unconfirmed reports about the Chinese governments impending decision, it fell around 30% beginning last week, and hit its recent low around $3,000. But it rose back up over the weekend, and as of this writing, it is hovering around $4,000. The price has been remarkably stable given the dramatic changes currently taking place with bitcoins tech, along with the uncertainty injected into the market by the Chinese government, as well as American regulators and financiers (if youre curious as to what the recent changes to bitcoin areor about cryptocurrency in generalI did a longer write-up on the space a month ago).

This stability suggests that the people who actually trade in this economy still view it in a positive light. Ill have a post coming out later this week rebutting Dimons ridiculous comparison of bitcoin to the Dutch tulip craze of the 1600s, but once you look at the fundamentals of bitcointheres far more of a bull than a bear case. Here, let someone much smarter than me quickly explain.

Tom Lee of @fundstrat says that bitcoin is headed to $25K, here's why pic.twitter.com/FBJiwTQjqM  CNBC's Fast Money (@CNBCFastMoney) September 14, 2017

To give you an idea of how quickly things change in this space: nearly all bitcoin trading was done in China as of January, Tom Lee said it was 30% in that video from Friday, and the WSJ wrote today that China accounts for less than 15% of all bitcoin trading volume. Japan has taken the lead now, and through all this madness, bitcoin has continued its steady rise. The crash from $4,000 to $3,000 and the jump back up was almost certainly Chinese money fleeing to Japanese exchangeswhich is evidence that even if China cuts off access to bitcoin, there is still enough demand elsewhere to keep the bitcoin economy afloat.

We're definitely in a bubble, but it's not popping anytime soon. This is a brand-new technology that people are still trying to figure out, but just look around: your computer, your phone, your caryour entire life is built by software, so digital money is a logical next step. Blockchain technology's decentralization is the greatest innovation in the history of financial ledgers and monetary exchanges, and it already has dramatically changed the way the world uses money.

Markets need rule of law, and rulers create constraints. Blockchains use code as law, and point the way towards true free markets.  Naval Ravikant (@naval) August 7, 2017

It would cost $30 billion to create one fraudulent bitcoin transaction, and the nature of this inherently trustworthy system is what threatens the Chinese government and entities like JPMorgan. If thats your list of enemies, you know that youre doing something right.

Jacob Weindling is a staff writer for Paste politics. Follow him on Twitter at @Jakeweindling.
Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minister of Japan, supports the United States stance on North Korea.

In a New York Times op-ed yesterday, Abe reiterated his ironclad alliance with the United States, and specifically voiced his support for President Donald Trump saying that all options are on the table when it comes to North Korea.

North Korea has made waves in recent weeks with missile tests and by releasing pictures of nuclear warheads. The nation says that it has a fully functional hydrogen bomb and working intercontinental ballistic missiles, though experts say they likely cant fit said hydrogen bomb into said missile yet.

Abe says that while he supports trade sanctions against North Korea passed by the United Nations this month, advocates for denuclearization must be ready to pursue other courses of action. He points out that North Korea has promised to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula before, and each time has reneged on the agreement and continued to manufacture nuclear weapons.

Politico reports that in response to North Koreas belligerence, Trump has pointedly refused to take a military option off the table. Experts point that military action would likely result in huge casualties for both Japan and South Korea, but Abe firmly supports this stance anyway. Abe thinks that the most imperative thing is to denuclearize North Korea as quickly as possible.
Its been a long time coming, but Bixby has finally found its voice. Samsung has begun pushing out the final piece of its AI package, Bixby Voice, to all Galaxy S8 phones in more than 200 countries and territories. Before long, millions of people will be saying, Hi Bixby to summon the new assistantthough Bixby still only supports English and Korean despite the worldwide rollout.

While we might not need another AI assistant on our phones, Bixby is actually a pretty good companion to Google Assistant. Its a little slow on the trigger at times, but I was impressed with how well it was able to understand me. And Bixby isnt a clone of Google Assistant or Sir eitheri. Samsungs AI is more servant than smartie pants, carrying out phone tasks that would normally require numerous steps. Heres everything you need to know to get started.

Update 10/20/17: Samsung has announced Bixby 2.0 which opens the AI assistant up to third-party developers and will let you it to control your smart appliances. See the Bixby 2.0 section below for more information.

Setting up Bixby Voice

How do I know if I have it?

Like all of Samsungs updates, Bixby Voice will be a staggered release that will vary depending on your carrier. Once its available, your phone should alert you to the change, but there are a couple of ways you can check to see of its been pushed to your handset.

IDG You should see a Bixby Voice icon on the Bixby Home screen. If you dont, head over to the About page to see if an update is waiting.

First, swipe left to get to the Bixby Home screen. If Bixby Voice is live, youll see a new b symbol next to the Bixby Vision eye and Bixby Reminders bell icons. If you dont see it, tap the overflow menu in the top right and select Settings. Then tap the About Bixby option and it will tell you if there are any available updates.

Youll need to update your other Galaxy apps. To do that, open the Galaxy Apps store, tap the overflow menu icon in the top right, then My Apps, and Update. If any apps need to be updated, they will appear on the next screen. If Bixby Voice is one of them, once it finishes updating youll be ready to go.

In later versions of Bixby, the b icon has been replaced with a gear icon that lets you toggle the side button on and off. If you see it, youre on the latest version and Bixby Voice is active

How do I get started?

To start using Bixby, swipe over to the Bixby Home screen and it should walk you through the setup process, which is pretty simple. In the screens that follow, youll practice saying, Hi Bixby, and try out a few commands. Additionally, there are a few general options in the Bixby Home Settings menu, including background color, feedback sounds, speaking style, and notifications.

IDG Bixby Voice only works with Samsung apps at launch, but more are on the way.

What apps does Bixby work with?

At launch, Bixby will only work with a handful of Samsungs own apps:

Bixby Vision

Calculator

Camera

Clock

Contacts

Gallery

Internet

Messages

Phone

Reminder

Settings

Weather

What about third-party apps?

At launch, Bixby is only designed to work with the apps above, but Samsung is looking to bring Bixby Voice to more apps quickly, including some popular third-party apps. The Bixby Labs tab in the Home Settings shows you what apps are in development and lets you opt in to test them. Bixby Labs already includes some intriguing upcoming apps, including Instagram, YouTube, Play Music, Maps, Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Twitter.

Using Bixby Voice

How do I summon Bixby?

There are two ways to summon Bixby. You can say, Hi Bixby or you can press and hold the phones side button. A small blue circle will appear in the left corner of the screen ready to receive your request. Just know that the side button works like a walkie-talkie, so youll need to keep it pressed until you finish your command.

IDG When you summon Bixby it will appear as a small blue icon on your home screen.

Can I use Bixby on the lock screen?

Sort of. You can summon Bixby on the lock screen by either pressing the button or saying Hi Bixby like usual. However, youll need to unlock your phone before it can actually perform your request.

Can I type commands to Bixby?

Yes! When you summon Bixby youll see a Full Screen button to the right. Tap it and Bixby will expand to fill the whole display. Then select the Search Commands field in the center and youll be able to type to Bixby instead of talk to it.

IDG Samsung offers a handy list of questions for each of the Bixby Voice-enabled apps.

How do I know what I can ask?

A lot of it is trial and error, but you can see a list of suggested questions for each app in Bixby Home. Tap the overflow menu, select Apps with voice, and choose the app you want. Inside each youll find a list of actionable requests.

Can I correct Bixby?

Samsung wants to get Bixby up to speed as quickly as possible, so after each request is completed (or not), a question will appear on the screen asking, How was my response? Tap Great and youll get 5 XP points. Tap Lets improve and and Bixby will take you to a screen where you can select words that were misunderstood or describe what went wrong.

IDG As you use Bixby youll advance through its levels and unlock feaures.

Wait, XP points? Whats that?

Samsung has gamified Bixby Voice to encourage people to use it. As you level up, youll unlock features (these seem to just be background colors for now). You can track your level on the My Bixby page.

Bixby Voice features

While youll need to use Samsungs apps to take advantage of Bixby at launch, theres a lot you can do with them. Here are some examples:

General commands

You can launch any app with Bixby just by saying Open and the app name. Or you can say, Open Chrome as a pop-up to enter that mode. You also can say, Take a screenshot to capture whats on your screen, or Close recent apps to clear out your carousel. Basically, if your S8 can do it, theres a good chance Bixby can assist.

Camera

Ask Bixby to take a selfie, and it will open the camera app and flip to the front camera, with a countdown timer that gives you three seconds to perfect your pout before the shutter snaps. You can also say things like, Take a picture with the rear camera, Turn the flash off, or Turn off HDR, and it will oblige. And when youre in the camera app, you can say, Hi Bixby, take a picture and it will capture the moment.

Calculator

You can use Bixby Voice to calculate simple equations. If you say, Whats 6 plus 3 or Whats 12 percent of 900, it will open Calculator, input the equation, and show you the solution. However, if you want to multiply the answer by 3, youll need to start a new equation. It doesnt understand what to do when you say, Times 3 or Multiply that by 3. It doesnt get conversions either. If you ask how many pints are in a cup, it will take you to the conversion section of the Calculator, but after asking what you want to convert, it will say, Turns out Im not able to do that. But it shouldnt be too long before it can.

Bixby Vision

Bixby Vision has been live since the Galaxy S8 debuted, and Bixby Voice doesnt add much to enhance it. It does, however, make it easier to use. You can say, Open Bixby Vision, or Search Bixby Vision, and the Vision-enabled camera will open. Or you can say, Translate this text or Show nearby restaurants, and it will launch the appropriate section of Bixby Vision. But youll still need to interact with the screen to find things. And you need to be specific. If you ask something general like, What is this? or How much does this cost? Bixby isnt smart enough to trigger Vision to find the answer.

Settings

Bixby Voice really shines when it comes to the Settings app. You can toggle and tweak all sorts of settings on your Galaxy S8 using Bixby, from turning off W-Fi, to turning on the flashlight, to raising the brightness. You can also say things like, Turn on power-saving mode, How much data have I used this month, and Change the wallpaper, and Bixby will take you to the proper screen and perform the action. Itll even display your IMEI number if you ask. I tried dozens of queries and couldnt find a settings command that it didnt understand. Its 100 percent Bixbys strongest suit.

Bixby Voice works as youd expect when it comes to making calls. Say something like, Call mom on mobile and itll start a phone call. For incoming calls, you can say, Accept or Decline, though its just as easy to tap the screen. You can also easily add a contact or see someones info just by asking. You can say, Block the last number, which is helpful for spam calls, or Show missed calls to see what you missed. You can also ask Bixby to block a specific number or person, open the dialer, or turn off the ringer.

Bixby 2.0

Samsung has announced the release of Bixby 2.0, which will be a bold reinvention of the platform, according to Samsung. Heres what we know about it so far:

Smart appliances

The main feature of Bixby 2.0 will be integration with smart devices and appliances, including TVs, refrigerators, home speakers, or any other connected technology you can imagine. At first, Bixby will mostly limited to Samsung devices, but Samsung has plans to expand it to a wide range of others.

Developer SDK

The launch of Bixby 2.0 will bring a software developer kit that third-party device makers can integrate into their products like they do with Alexa and Google Assistant. It will begin as a private beta program for select developers before opening up to the entire developer community.

Voice improvements

Samsung says Bixby 2.0 will have enhanced natural language capabilities for more natural commands and complex processing. Additionally, it will allow for multiple user recognition. Bixby 2.0 will be able to distinguish between users and adjust its responses according to the person talking, a similar feature to one unveiled for Google Home earlier this year.

Bixby marketplace

Samsung also plans to allow users to use Bixby 2.0 to make purchases, saying it plans to roll out a variety of revenue models to enable developers to monetize the Bixby experience. Its unclear how this work work, but presumably it would tie into Samsung Pay.

Bixby tips

Turn off the Bixby button

IDG Samsung has finally given us a way to disable the dreaded Bixby button.

Galaxy S8 and Note 8 phones include a button just below the volume rocker that summons Bixby when pressed. It can be a real nuisance, and Samsung has finally responded with a way to turn it off. Youll need to be on version 2.0.03.3 or later of Bixby Home to see the option, so if youre not seeing it, head over to the Galaxy Apps store and update your apps. The update introduces a gear icon next to the overflow menu. Tap it, and youll see Bixby key toggle appear. Tap it once to disable the side buttons functionality. Even when its off, however, you can still hold down the button for a second or so to bring up Bixby Voice.

Check your history

If you want to see the most recent things youve asked Bixby to do, you can find it on your personalized Bixby page. Go to Bixby Home, tap the overflow menu, and select My Bixby. Thats where youll see your activity, as well as a few settings shortcuts and tutorials. It appears to keep a running list of every interaction, so you can scroll through your whole conversation history to see how far its come.

Set up quick commands

When you first start using Bixby, it will prompt you to use pretty specific commands, like Open phone and call Chris. But as you use it, youll quickly discover that it can understand shortcuts like, Call Chris, or Message Mom, too.

Additionally, you can add shortcuts to specific commands to cut down on what you need to say. After you ask it to do something, youll see an Add quick command option below your request. Tap it and you can give Bixby an alternative string for that command. For older queries, youll need to hit up your conversation history. Go to My Bixby, tap Conversations, and youll see a Suggest another phrase button below each prior request. Tap the one you want and youll be able to type out a new way to say it.

Enable dictation

IDG Bixby Voice will transcribe your words, but only when using the Samsung Keyboard.

Inside the Hello Bixby settings youll find a Dictation on keyboard toggle. Turn it on and Bixby will transcribe your words on command whenever youre using the keyboard. You can activate it by either holding down the Bixby key or pressing the microphone key on the keyboard. But youll need to use the Samsung Keyboard for now. To switch, press the keyboard icon at the right of the navigation bar.
The 2018 Mondraker Foxy XR.

The base model Foxy Carbon R retails for $4,400, or you can cash in that retirement fund and spring for the $9,100 Foxy RR SL shown here.

Mondraker 2018 Highlights

The $7,800 Dune Carbon RR has 27.5" wheels, 160mm of travel, and a 170mm fork up front.

The alloy Dune R is priced at $4,600 USD.

The Summum Carbon Team Pro is World Cup ready, and retails for $9,400 USD.

The base model, alloy Summum is priced at a more attainable $3,900 USD.

Mountain bike geometry is a hot topic these days, and a certain Spanish company deserves credit for being one of the first brands to promote the idea of a longer front center paired with a short stem. Mondraker debuted their Forward Geometry concept back in 2012, releasing a line of bikes with stubby, 10mm stems, and reach numbers that dwarfed nearly everything else on the market. The idea is that the longer front center brings stability at higher speeds, and allows riders to feel more confident dropping into steep terrain.That Forward Geometry concept has been tweaked slightly over the years, and the stem length has been bumped up to 30mm, but the same general principles remain. Mondraker's offerings are also still some of the longest bikes available, even though a number of other companies have begun to release bikes based around similar geometry principles  as they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.For riders in the United States, Mondraker's products haven't been that easy to come by, but that's about to change. Beginning this November, QARV Imports will be bringing a large portion of Mondraker's product line to the US, everything from DH bikes to XC bikes, and yes, even e-bikes. Although online bike sales are becoming increasingly common, for now Mondrakers will only be sold at select brick-and-mortar locations  the company is a strong supporter of the traditional independent bicycle dealer (IBD) sales model.Mondraker CEO Miguel Pina said, Bringing our bikes to the USA is a big step for our brand and were glad to be doing it with the support of QARV. It takes a lot of work to make the stars align just right and get success in our market and I believe that we have all of the right people involved to create that success in the USA.In order to allow potential buyers to try Mondraker's radical geometry out for themselves, QARV will be hosting several demo events, including stops at the Vail Outlier Offroad Festival, Outerbike, Pisgah Mountain Bike Festival, and Outdoor Demo East.The three models that will likely be the most interesting for Pinkbike readers are the Summum, Dune, and Foxy. The Foxy sees the most updates for 2018, including an increased amount of travel (it now has 150mm), and Boost spacing, which we covered here when it was announced in July. All of the bikes are available with either a carbon or aluminum frame, and with parts kits that run the gamut from basic to exotic.
Fedor Holz's Life of a Champion Ep. 3: Party After Final Table!

September 17, 2017 Valerie Cross

In the third episode of the mini-documentary series "Life of a Champion," Fedor Holz wakes up a bit early because of the time change and has some breakfast in preparation for his first final table of the Poker Masters, which comes in Event #2 of the five-event high-roller series.

Watch Episode 1: Taking Shots in Vegas

Watch Episode 2: Let's Talk Money

Final Table at the Poker Masters

Holz went into the final table second in chips. After he knocked out Christian Christner in fifth place winning a flip with ace-king against jacks, Holz had half the chips in play. He held on to that lead and went into heads-up with an overwhelming lead over fellow German Steffen Sontheimer.

That would soon change as Sontheimer doubled up with quad sixes and continued to win the majority of the subsequent pots to take over the chip lead. On break, Holz was facing a 2:1 chip deficit and said he was feeling pretty good, but not his best mentally after losing many hands during the heads-up match up to that point. Holz would ultimately finish in second for a payday of $550,000.

The camera follows as Holz gets paid out and immediately grabs a snack and continues the grind, hopping into the third preliminary event. After busting two bullets in just a couple of hours in the next one, Holz has a bit of a break before the final preliminary event. What will he do with his time off?

Party!

Holz checks out of his hotel room at the Aria to join some friends, including his friend Jonah who flew out from Germany, to stay in a swanky Vegas mansion. The crew gets ready and hits the first party at a Nobu hotel room with mentions of heading to Omnia Nightclub to see the DJ Calvin Harris later in the evening.

The rest is left up to the imagination, but keep tuning into PokerNews for the remaining episodes of Fedor Holz Life of a Champion to get more unfiltered access into Holzs pursuit of the Purple Jacket, and other endeavors, in Las Vegas.
What happened when the South African Bee flew by Popdust? We got Buzzed!

This past Wednesday, our special guest on Popdust Presents was Binx, also known as the African Bee. Binx is a pop artist from South Africa and while her music is already incredibly popular in South Africa and topping charts, she's been making great strides in the US market in only a few years of being exposed to it. This past Wednesday, Binx released her album Buzzed and it is buzzing with potential chart toppers if you ask me.

Binx

Binx told me that she is inspired by a wide range of artists. Growing up on Rolling Stones and classic rock, Binx is inspired by the vocal stylings and marketing style of rock stars like Mick Jagger and Freddie Mercury. This inspiration, I find reflected in her music. Her voice, though traditionally bright and poppy layers in a unique rock sound that sets her apart. She has also always been inspired by Katy Perry. She says that lyrics are very important to her and great lyricists like Katy inspire her to be meticulous in her word choices. Binx told me she writes most of her songs at the gym when inspiration strikes usually in the form of a melody. She'll sneak off into the corner of the gym to stealthily record a melody on her voice memos and rush home after finishing her work out to work on the lyrics.The lyrics take the longest time, as she is choosy with what she says and exactly how she says it. Binx told me that if the music were stripped away, she'd want the words to stand firm alone as a strong piece that says something.

Buzzed's release date was no coincidence. Binx happened to release music last year on the same date which also happens to be her dad's birthday. This year, it's even more special because one of the songs on the album is dedicated to him. The song "Jack Flash" alludes to her dad and her bond over classic rock and music. Binx told me that her dad was one of the reasons she even does music and that's clear from the lyrics of the song, "Man you rolled like a Stone. Said if you write a song like this then you've made it," she sings about her father. Binx also filled me in on the inspiration behind another song on the album that she performed for us. This track was a bonus added to the album towards the end of it's completion called "Paradise". Binx clearly loves her friends. It was obvious from the way she greeted her friend Jacquie who came to Popdust Presents to watch Binx perform and the way she endearingly spoke to her guitarist Matt Marlinski and her pianist Matteo Scher. "Paradise" she said is a song about how grateful she is for her friends helping her to get through the downs of life and it's definitely my new pick-me-up jam. The passion that shone from her performance was evident, but don't take my word for it. You can watch her full interview and performance if you keep reading.

Buzzed is available everywhere now! When you purchase the album, 3% goes towards saving the bees as well in collaboration with Environment New York. I can't wait to see what Binx does next. It was a pleasure talking with such a warm, talented artist.

Watch her full performance here. Tune in Wednesdays for Popdust Presents Live!

Follow Binx on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Anie Delgado is a contributor to Popdust and is an actress and musician based in NYC. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @anie_delgado and on Facebook and check out her music on Spotify.



POP DUST | Read More



She may be 'Bad at Love' but Halsey's great at music videos!

Why P!nk will always remain relevant

Taylor Swift dropped her LWYMMD music video and consider me shook
Delta Air Lines will discontinue service between Narita, Japan and Guam in the new year, according to the airlines' corporate communications office.

The last operating date for the Guam-Narita flight will be on Jan, 8, 2018.

Hiroko Okada, of Delta Air Lines Corporate Communications, told The Guam Daily Post that demand has not been strong enough to sustain the route so Delta decided to discontinue service.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

Impacted customers will have the option to travel on other airlines, Okada said.

The airline will also continue to operate daily service from Narita to Saipan and twice-weekly service to Palau.
Adhesives and Sealants Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 13:43:12

Press Information

Coherent Market Insights

1001 4th Ave,



#3200



Seattle, WA 98154



Mr. Shah

CEO

+1-206-701-6702

email

http://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/adhesives-and-sealants-market-253





# 858 Words

1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154CEO+1-206-701-6702

Adhesive is a material used to bind two surfaces together, while sealants are materials with adhesive properties that are used to seal, fill, waterproof, gaps, and joints between two surfaces. Moreover, due to high tensile and shear strength adhesive are classified into two categories such as structural adhesive and nonstructural adhesive. The chemicals formulation and technology involves in adhesive and sealants are similar. Water-based adhesive is expected to dominate the global adhesive market during the forecast period. Moreover, the silicon based sealants is also projected to be dominant segment in the market. Adhesives and sealants are expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period in the construction, packaging, and automobiles industries.Request Sample of Global Adhesives and Sealants Market: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/253 Adhesives and Sealants Market TaxonomyOn the basis of product type, the global adhesives market is classified into:Solvent basedWater basedHot meltReactiveOthersOn the basis of product type, the global sealants market is classified into:Acrylic sealantPolyurethane sealantSilicon sealantButyl sealantOthersOn the basis of application, the global adhesives and sealant market is classified into:PackagingBuildings and constructionWood worksFootwearMedicalOthersOn the basis of geography, the global adhesives and sealant market is classified into:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeU.K.GermanyItalyFranceSpainRussiaRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanASEANAustraliaSouth KoreaRest of Asia PacificLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoArgentinaRest of Latin AmericaMiddle EastGCC CountriesIsraelRest of Middle EastAfricaNorthern AfricaCentral AfricaSouth AfricaAdhesives and Sealants Market Outlook  Surging demand in Automobile and Construction Industry Augmenting Market GrowthAsia Pacific is expected to be one the major revenue contributor due to its emerging economy and supportive government policies in the region. For instance, Make in India initiative by Government of India aims to raise the countrys passenger vehicle manufacturing to 9.4 million by 2026. Moreover, due to rampant economic growth in Asia Pacific and rapid urbanization, especially in India and China, the demand for adhesive and sealants is expected to witness tremendous growth over the forecast period from various end-use industries that are witnessing burgeoning growth. Demand for modern buildings and commercial complex with glass exteriors and interiors is increasing and in turn is expected to drive growth of the global adhesive and sealants market during the forecast period.Adhesives and Sealants Market Challenges  Environmental ImpactCarbon dioxide (CO2) and Volatile Organic Compound emission are major environmental issues. Adhesive and sealants such as silver epoxy-based Electronic Conductive Adhesive (ECA) release CO2. Moreover, due to stringent government regulation on release of VOC emission to the atmosphere, end-use industries are actively opting for alternative to organic solvents and dispersing media. For instance, SIKA AG introduced new-generation adhesive SikaBond AT-75 for wood floor bonding, meeting highest EHS regulation. This is expected to be one of the key challenges for adhesive and sealants market during the forecast period. Bio-based based products such as soybean-derived polyols, vegetable-based polyamides, epoxies, and polyisoprenes are increasingly replacing the synthetic materials and additionally reduce the carbon footprints. Water based formulation contribute to a major share in adhesive whereas silicone-based sealant capture major share in sealants market. Adhesives and sealants market is highly dependent on the raw materials such as synthetic fibers, resins, and crude oil. The prices of these raw materials are highly volatile and hamper the growth of the adhesives and sealants market.Adhesives and Sealants Market  Regulatory Scenario:United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), September, 2008, published Control Technique Guideline (CTG) for industrial adhesives with requirement on Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content of adhesive application method at facility to have VOC emission of 15 lb/day or more.United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), September 20, 2011, enforced regulation on use of adhesive and sealants which contains chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene or trichloroethylene.United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), January 01, 1993, banned on use of Adhesives, Sealants, Adhesive Bonding Primers, Adhesive Primers, Sealant Primers, or any other Primer which have a VOC content in excess of 250 g/L less water and less Exempt Compounds.The Council of The European Communities on May 16, 1983, amending directive 77/728/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of adhesives, paints, varnishes, printing inks and similar products (83/265/EEC).Check the trending report of Global Adhesives and Sealants Market: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/adhesives-and-sealants-market-253 Some of the key companies dominating the market are 3M, The Dow Chemicals Company, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Avery Dennison, Royal Adhesives & Sealants LLC, Ashland Inc., Akzo Nobel NV, Arkema SA, BASF SE, Bemis Company Incorporated, Berry Plastics Corporation, RPM International, DuPont, and Evans Adhesive Corporation Limited, among others. Manufacturers are working closely with OEMs and R&D centers of the major automotive players to bridge the demand gap and offer tailor-made productsAbout 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.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 13:57:01

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Advanced Bifurcation Systems ("ABS" or the "Company"), a clinical stage medical device company developing an innovative stenting platform which overcomes the limitations of current approaches for the treatment of bifurcation lesions in coronary angioplasties, today announced that the Company will be a sponsor of the XIII European Bifurcation Club (www.bifurc.net) meeting at the Casa Das Artes in Porto, Portugal on Friday, October 13th and Saturday, October 14th, 2017. Dr. Mehran Khorsandi, the Company's co-founder, chairman and chief medical officer will make a presentation entitled "Bifurcations Made Easy" at the conference.

"Our platform based technology is unlike anything on the market today. We have put extensive patent protection in place and are working with key institutions and KOL's to advance our program as we move forward to commercialize the technology and pursue regulatory approval," commented CEO Charles Laverty.

Advanced Bifurcation Systems, through its novel Mother/Daughter ("MD") platform, has complete coverage for all lesions regardless of branch angle, size, plaque burden or location. This single system addresses both the main and side branch, and is mechanically fail-safe and self-aligning for perfect placement.

Dr. Mehran Khorsandi commented, "We have really worked hard to perfect our technology and believe that when we commercialize our product more interventional cardiologists will be comfortable doing complex bifurcations. Our unique technology enables assembly of a bifurcating stent at the carina, regardless of angles, sizes or plaque burden. We expect that our platform, which has been tested in 10 patients to date, will require limited training, greatly reduce procedure times and improve clinical outcomes."

About Advanced Birfurcation Systems

Advanced Bifurcation Systems ("ABS") is a clinical stage medical device company developing an innovative stenting platform for simple treatment of all bifurcation lesions in coronary angioplasties. ABS has developed a novel technology which overcomes the limitations of current approaches while simplifying the procedure. The Company's groundbreaking system consists of numerous differentiating features, including a unique modular independently movable dual-catheter system for provisional side-branch stenting as well as full bifurcation stenting with a proprietary crimping technology allowing for partial crimping of the main stent. For more information, go to www.advancedbifurcation.com.

About EBC 2017

The European Bifurcation Club is an organization of European thought leaders in the treatment of coronary bifurcation lesions. The group holds an annual meeting to interact with the medical industry on the development of new concepts, processes and devices as well as to give scientific credibility to new clinical and technological projects.

Contact:

Advanced Birfurcation Systems

Charles Laverty

Chief Executive Officer

charles_laverty@advancedbifurcation.com

(949)432-4824

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Advanced Bifurcation Systems via Globenewswire


PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:58:35

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 656 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Alcohol sulfates are negatively charged ions or anions. Being unstable in nature they react with cations to form stable compounds. However, this property makes alcohol sulfates highly suitable in various applications largely as surfactants. As surfactants, these may act as detergents, foaming agents, emulsifiers, wetting agents and dispersants. When alcohol sulfates react with sodium they form sodium lauryl sulphates and other compounds, making them suitable in industrial applications such as floor cleaners, car wash soaps and engine degreasers. Alcohol sulfates also find use in a wide range of personal care products such as soaps, shampoos and toothpastes. With the wide range of industrial applications, the market for alcohol sulfates is expected to have a positive trend in the future. The rise in demand from personal care segment across Europe and other Asia Pacific countries is expected to boost the market for alcohol sulfates in the next few years. Also the application as surfactant will further propel the demand for alcohol sulfates in the future. The current market for surfactants is largely dominated by Europe and the U.S. However the surge in demand from China and Africa will act as a catalyst for alcohol sulfates market in the near future.Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9010 The commercial usage of alcohol sulfates began in 1940s when they started replacing the ordinary soap primarily for washing machine applications. The negative electrical charge of alcohol sulfates ionic nature makes them bind to dissolved minerals in hard water. The lauryl group provides the highest foam, making it ideal for cleansing applications. Also the alcohol sulfates can be readily thickened when combined with alkanolamides and amine oxides which can be used largely in laundry application. The personal care products and other hygiene related applications are expected to be the major drivers for alcohol sulfates in the next few years. The other applications of alcohol sulfates include shampoos, body wash, liquid hand soap, bath products, and facial cleansers.The developing nations across Asia Pacific are anticipated to be the fastest growing markets for alcohol sulfates in the next six years. The middle class population in these countries is growing at a stupendous rate which is eventually resulting in an increase in the overall customer base. Moreover, due to the rapid economic development of these countries and increased disposable income of the citizens of these countries has led to further magnification of the total customer base in these countries for applications in detergents and soaps. Moreover, the countries in the regions such as Africa, South America and the Middle East are showing swift economic growth since the last few years. In addition to this, the developed regions across the U.S. and European countries are progressively recovering from the sluggish economic conditions. Considering this outlook, the industrial applications such as floor cleaners, car wash soaps, and engine degreasers are expected to record a magnificent growth in the next few years. Additionally, there is an incredible market potential for the surfactants and allied industries in the developing countries such as China, India and Brazil. The major players operating in the alcohol sulfates market are primarily focusing on the emergent countries for tapping their immense market potential. The key companies operating in the alcohol sulfates market are installing gigantic production facilities in these developing countries to fulfill the swiftly rising local demand for alcohol sulfates. Some of the key players operating in the alcohol sulfates market are Zhejiang Zanyu Technology Co., Ltd., Kao Corporation, Oxiteno, Unger Surfactants, Godrej Industries Ltd, Wings Corporation, Miwon Commercial Co., Ltd., Guangzhou Xingyi Chemical Trading Co., Ltd, Croda International, Clariant Corporation, Huntsman Corporation, Rhodia SA, Stepan Company, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Galaxy Surfactants Ltd., BASF SE, DuPont, Evonik Industries AG, The Dow Chemical Company, Ho Tung Chemical Corp. and Taiwan NJC Corporation.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9010
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 14:30:34

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 406 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for LED Medical Diagnostics Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCWire) - LED Medical Diagnostics Inc. (TSX Venture:LMD). has issued a press release with the following headline:American Dental Partners Selects LED Medical Diagnostics Subsidiary Apteryx as Cloud Imaging Software ProviderTo 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 LED Medical Diagnostics Inc., 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/LED Medical Diagnostics Inc.Source: LED Medical Diagnostics Inc. (TSX Venture: LMD, OTCQX: LEDIF, FWB: LME, WKN: A1KC2E, ISIN: CA50184T1093)Date: September 18, 2017Time: 8:30 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of LED Medical Diagnostics Inc. 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.)
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:51:30

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 598 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

The anti-diabetics market includes drugs, which are used for treatment of diabetes mellitus and are also known as oral hypoglycemic/antihyperglycemic agents. The anti-diabetics market has grown tremendously in recent years with increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Thus, systemic therapies for diabetes have become the focal point of attention due to the burgeoning diabetic population size, with diabetes affecting middle age groups and children across all income groups globally.Request Sample Copy of the Report@The anti-diabetics market has been segmented based on type of drug class into biguanides (metformin), sulfonylureas (glimepiride), meglitinides (repaglinide), thiazolidinediones (pioglitazone), dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors (sitagliptin), and -glucosidase inhibitors (acarbose).Among these drug classes, Biguanides act directly against insulin resistance. Sulfonylureas (SUs) were the earliest drug classes in the market for treatment of diabetes and have a significant market presence. -glucosidase inhibitors delay postprandial glucose absorption by hydrolysis of disaccharide is into monosaccharides in the small intestine. Meglitinides are prandial insulin releasers that stimulate rapid insulin secretion. The thiazolidinediones are insulin-sensitizing drugs, which improve whole-body insulin sensitivity through gene regulation. DPP-IV inhibitors make a significant impact on glucose tolerance and make lasting improvements in the health outcomes of diabetic patients. Some of the major drivers and opportunities for growth of this market include drug combinations of several agents such as sitagliptin and metformin and other drug combinations that are in different stages of clinical and pipeline development. Increase in the prevalence of diabetes and new product launches by major pharmaceutical companies re some of the key drivers for growth in this market. In 2015, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH launched two new drugs (Synjardy & Glyxambi)for treatment of diabetes mellitus type II. Some of the key opportunities for the antidiabetics include a strong pipeline for antidiabetics and entry of new players in the market, for instance, Novo Nordisk's diabetes drugs Tresiba, and Ryzodeg received FDA approval in September 2015. Moreover, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH has a strong pipeline for anti-diabetic drugs, such as Linagliptin which is a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP) 4 inhibitor) for patients suffering from diabetes mellitus type II and high cardiovascular risk. However, despite the availability of numerous branded antidiabetic drugs, many of these drugs have lost patent protection. In the wake of huge pressures from government and regulatory authorities, which have banned top selling drugs in various countries, in order to promote generic drugs at lower costs for diabetic patients. For instance, Mankind Pharma, launched anti-diabeticDynaglipt (Teneligliptin) under the drug class DPP-4 inhibitors in November 2015 in India targeting the middle to low income diabetic patient population. As a result, the volume of antidiabetics is expected to shift to first generation drugs and other generic drugs in the market. Moreover, there is a huge unmet medical need for antidiabetics that can treat multiple chronic disorderscoexisting with diabetessuch as cardiovascular diseases, dyslipidemia, hypertension etc. Another major restraint in the antidiabetics market is reduction in the efficacy of drugs over a period and canlead to other health complications.Request TOC of the Report@Some of the major players in the market include Astra Zeneca plc, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Eli Lilly & Co., Johnson & Johnson, Mankind Pharma Ltd., Merck & Co. Inc., Novartis AG, Novo Nordisk A/S, SanofiS.A., and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. This report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming years
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:49:14

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 617 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

Automotive switches are one of the primary components in an automotive. Switches control the overall electrical equipments fitted in an automotive. Automotive switches are vital in controlling the automotive lighting and overall functioning of an automotive. Switches are also used in engine start and stop function and in different vehicle operations. Different categories of switches are used for various functioning of automotives which includes toggle switches, push and pull switches, keyed switches and marine grade switches among others. The demand of automotive switches are rising globally due to technological upgradation and increasing consumption expenditure. There are two types of automotive switches which includes water resistant switches and non-water resistant switches. Water resistant automotive switches are gaining importance especially in the two wheeler segment due to open nature of two wheeler vehicles which remain exposed to extreme atmospheric conditions. Durability of the switches, reliability and easy operation are the key factors on which the quality of the switches depends. Switches can be both manual and automatic. Manual switches required user interference and is used in various kinds of automotives such as passenger cars, light commercial vehicles (LCV) and heavy commercial vehicles (HCV). Automatic switches do not require user intervention and operates automatically according to the response send by the engine sensors. Automatic switches are used in premium segment passenger cars and other high end automotives.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Asia-Pacific is the most attractive region for automotive switches market. There is a significant increase in demand for automotives in the Asia-pacific region which is driving the market for automotive switches. The adoption of latest technology is another driver, driving the automotive switches market in this region. The escalating demand in LCV and HCV vehicles is also driving the growth of automotive switches market due to low cost of production. Presence of developing countries like India and China are also boosting the demand for automotive switches as there is a huge demand for automotives in these countries. The North America and Europe market for automotive switches is expected to grow at a steady pace over the forecast period. The North America automotive switches are expected to grow at a higher rate during the forecast period as compared to the Europe market. The reason for this is the recent economic meltdown which significantly affected the economic stability of Europe market. North America automotive market is driven by comfort and luxury. There is a huge demand for luxury automotives which drives the market for automotive switches in North America. Automatic switches are more in demand than manual switches in the North America market. Easy availability of credit facilities to prospective automotive buyers also acts as a driver which drives the automotive switches market in this region. Presence of premium automotive manufacturers such as Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen and BMW is driving the automotive switches market in Europe. Europe market faced steep challenge in the recent economic meltdown and is recovering at a steady pace which has also increased the demand for automotive switches significantly.Request TOC of the Report@Global key participants in the industry include Ark-Les Connectors, D&R Technology, LLC, Diamond Electric Manufacturing Corporation, E-Switch, Inc, Honeywell, Inc, TRW Automotive U.S. LLC and Micro Technologies.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. Geographies analyzed under this research report includeNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeMiddle East and AfricaLatin AmericaThis report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming years
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:58:41

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 578 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

The global battery market worth is worth USD 100 billion and is growing at a rapid pace owing to increasing application of batteries in various industries. Alloy used in batteries are one of the most important components, which sustain the battery functionality. Different kinds of battery require different varieties of battery alloy as per the requirement of the respective applications. Batteries can be broadly classified into primary batteries and secondary batteries. The most common types of battery alloys contain metals such as lead, selenium, calcium, antimony and tin. Alloys are generally used in the battery anodes.Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9016 The battery alloys market has been propelled by the growth of battery market across the world. New applications of battery are developed every other day and the technological advancement and reach among the masses have augured well for the battery market and subsequently the battery alloy market. Battery alloys find most of its demand from the automotive industry. The growth of automotive market in Asia Pacific and the reviving market in North America has fuelled the growth of battery alloy market. Moreover the gradual transformation of petroleum driven car into battery operated vehicles and hybrid vehicles have boosted the battery alloy market. Industrial usage of batteries is the second largest market for battery alloys. Manufacturing industries require extensive battery service for power backup and storage. The grids in these high power batteries are made of alloys such as lead antimony, lead calcium and lead selenium. The high growth of manufacturing sector and the growth of transportation infrastructure are the leading causes for the growth of battery alloy market.There is very little threat to the battery alloy market since it is indispensible to the batteries. However some alloys are preferred over the others owing to environmental concerns as well as functionality. Although lead alloys display extremely good characteristics, the use of lead in battery alloys are increasingly discouraged. Lead calcium battery alloy is again preferred over lead antimony due to its higher longevity and performance dynamics.The major opportunity of the battery alloy market lies in the electric vehicles application. Matured economies of North America and Europe have shifted focus towards electric vehicles in a bid to achieve a sustainable future free of petroleum requirements. According to research about 40% of all cars on road in 2035 will be electrically powered in North America which is one of the largest market for automotives. Asia Pacific region has also initiated the process of promoting hybrid vehicles which is expected to provide tremendous stimulus to the battery alloy market.The battery alloy market is dominated by Asia Pacific region. More than 90 % of the market for battery alloys is derived from this region as Asia Pacific acts as the battery supplier to the world. Japan and South Korea used to be the main countries manufacturing batteries. However China has surged ahead in recent times and is the highest growing country in the world in terms of demand and production of battery alloys. North America and Europe account for high demand of batteries which are mostly imported from Asia. The battery alloy market is expected to be dominated by Asia Pacific in the near future as well.Som of the major companies operating in this market are Mitsubishi Corporation and Furukawa Co.Ltd among many others.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9016
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:59:00

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 587 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the most common causes of patient hospitalization and mortality in many developed nations. It continues to be the leading cause of death worldwide as well. It is imperative for a physician to perform cardiovascular imaging test to diagnose heart condition and during subsequent management of any cardiac disorder. Cardiovascular imaging (CV imaging) enables radiologist to see inside the body and shows the structure of heart in great detail. The physician can understand blood flow within the body and diagnose patients heart or vascular condition. The global market for cardiovascular imaging is expected to grow in the near future owing to the increasing demand from the emerging economies in the Asia-Pacific and rest of the world. Moreover, the increasing dependence on imaging modalities have increased the adoption of imaging informatics which is expected to witness far-reaching positive impact on the global CV imaging and informatics market.Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9043 Echocardiography, angiography, nuclear cardiac imaging, computed tomography, cardiac positron emission tomography (cardiac PET), and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cardiac MRI) are the most common imaging modalities used for diagnosis and interventional cardiology. Other tests used for cardiovascular imaging include coronary calcium score and coronary catheterization (catheter angiography). Coronary catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure to access coronary circulation by inserting a catheter into heart through blood vessels in the leg. Cardiac CT is a less invasive option to coronary catheterization which involves injecting CT-visible dye. Cardiac CT offers advantage of minimizing the risk of arterial perforation and reduces the chances of infection at catheter injection site. In the late 1970s, CT scans required 2.4-sec for capturing an image, but the development in the electron beam technology has significantly reduced the time per scan. In addition, the development of multi-detector scanners, it has become possible to obtain 64, 128, 256 and more simultaneous slices adding more spatial resolution and diagnostic help to radiologists.Echocardiography imaging is an optional ultrasound method of cardiac imaging and includes transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), stress echocardiography. Recently, 3D echocardiography is being used for cardiovascular imaging which is non-invasive, easy to operate, and produces much clearer image. Nuclear cardiac imaging is becoming a popular method which involves usage of a radionuclide - technetium Tc 99m sestamibi (MIBI). This non-invasive cardiac imaging method is considered to be one of the best methods to evaluate and diagnose a heart attack. It is also a very handy technique to assess myocardial salvage among patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI). The market for non-invasive cardiovascular imaging is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years as the invasive imaging causes great inconvenience to the patients. Moreover, the non-invasive imaging is less costly and incurs comparatively lesser hospitalization to the patient.Geographically, the global cardiovascular imaging and informatics market can be segmented into four major regions, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the world. Geographically, the Asia-Pacific market will witness highest growth in terms of procedures and will outnumber the total imaging procedures in the western part of the world. Large patient pool, increasing healthcare infrastructure and strengthening economy in the region are contributing to the growth of Asia-Pacific cardiovascular imaging and informatics market.Some of the key companies operating in the cardiac imaging and informatics include GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthcare, Philips Healthcare, Medis Medical Imaging Systems BV, Pie Medical Imaging, and Circle Cardiovascular Imaging, Inc.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9043
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 15:45:12

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 404 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Cielo Waste Solutions Corp.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCWire) - Cielo Waste Solutions Corp. (CSE:CMC). has issued a press release with the following headline:Cielo Announces $3.5 Million Term Sheet to Fund the Construction of Its 1st Commercial Plant and Provides an Operational UpdateTo 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 Cielo Waste Solutions 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/Cielo Waste Solutions Corp.Source: Cielo Waste Solutions Corp. (CSE: CMC)Date: September 18, 2017Time: 9:45 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Cielo Waste Solutions 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.)
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:51:06

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 696 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

Document imaging or electronic imaging is a technology that enables users to scan hard copy documents into computer system and store them digitally. These technologies also enable the users to enter metadata into the system and utilize storage technology for saving the digital version of the document. Document imaging systems can be in several forms such as microfilm, printers, copiers, facsimile machines, document scanners, multifunction printers, archive writers and computer output microfilm (COM). It can also be used in the form of enterprise content management. Previously, the content management technology term or document imaging was used in swap with document image management as industries tried to separate themselves from reprographic and micrographic technologies. Imaging remains a major focal point for businesses as they modernize processes in search of speed, growth, and agility. Moreover, improved efficiencies also generate competitive advantage and better customer satisfaction.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Distributed scanning is expected to gain market growth in the coming years as it provides several benefits to the organizations such as it reduces unit costs and the organization saves time as well as money for transporting documents to a particular centralized location. Also, the risks of losing or compromising documents are being reduced, and the digitized information is made available to the users much faster. The key factors that are driving the growth of document imaging scanner market include the adoption of compliance initiatives and the need for reduction in expenses which has led tohigh investment in improving document processing. Document imaging solutions generate substantial sales potential for the resellers, especially when it is considered as a standalone solution. To be more effective, the document imaging solutions are considered a part of larger infrastructure strategy. This solution supports other clients operations such as document storing, security, as well as market analytics.The increasing demand for network scanners has also been driving the growth of document imaging scanner market. The data captured with the help of document imaging solutions would become a major part of business analytics. The scanned documents are used in big data analytics, no matter if the content is being converted by optical character recognition or is an image.The cloud is significantly becoming an important and flexible extension to enterprises, for more data storage and accelerates workflows as a part of image capture. The image capture would considerably be used for storing as well as sharing business-critical documents and images as a part of the workflow. Furthermore, the document imaging solutions support common standards such as TWAIN and, HTML5, which makes it easier for sharing captured images across the applications and in between environments. The players in this market are focusing on developing new products in order to strengthen their market position. In February 2014, Newgen Software, Inc. launched the OmniScan 3.0 which was the latest version of its scanning software application. The new featured version consisted of connectors that allowed the user to scan the documents directly to SAP or SharePoint. OmniScan 3.0 also offered influential document quality analysis as well as image correction abilities.Some of the major participants in the document imaging scanner market include Epson America, Inc., Newgen Software, Inc., Fujitsu Technology Solutions, Hewlett Packard Company, Canon, Inc., and Eastman Kodak Company.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. Geographies analyzed under this research report includeNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeMiddle East and AfricaLatin AmericaThis report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming yearsRequest TOC of the Report@This report is a complete study of current trends in the market, industry growth drivers, and restraints. It provides market projections for the coming years. It includes analysis of recent developments in technology, Porters five force model analysis and detailed profiles of top industry players. The report also includes a review of micro and macro factors essential for the existing market players and new entrants along with detailed value chain analysis.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:50:49

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 559 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

Blood carries oxygen which is required for a healthy body functioning. When the concentration of oxygen is reduced in the blood then an oxygen-sensing protein present in the kidney identifies the deficiency of oxygen gradient in the blood and then induces the EPO production,which then turns upon the erythroid cell line in the bone marrow to stimulate hematopoiesis and thus it response to the change in blood oxygen gradient. Endogenous erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hematopoietic hormone, which is synthesized, in the renal tubules. EPO helps in controlling and regulating the mechanism of erythropoiesisin the bone marrow. Due to anemia and renal problem, the production of erythropoietin (EPO) istroubled, resulting into fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin and insomnia.For treating anemia,chemotherapy induced anemia, renal disorders and others erythropoietin stimulating drugs (EPO) are used.Request Sample Copy of the Report@For development of synthetic form of erythropoietin drugs such as epoetin alfa, epoetin beta, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin delta, epoetin omega and others with the help of improved recombinant DNA technology.Recombinant erythropoietin is an artificialformof natural erythropoietin. These are made by cloning the gene for erythropoietin. Among synthetic EPOsepoetin alfa, epoetin beta, epoetin omega, epoetin delta and darbepoetin-alpha are used extensively. Epoetin delta is another recombinant EPO that is been used for treating patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).GlobalErythropoietin stimulating agent market are driven by increasing number of patients suffering from anemia, anemia induced due to cancer, end stage renal disease (ESRD) and HIV treatment. In June 1989,Epoetin alfa was the first drug for EPO, manufactured by Amgen Inc. U.S FDA approved itunder the trade name Epogen.The global market for erythropoietin drugs are expected to grow in near future as increased cases of cancer and renal problem haveregistered. With the expiration of Amgens patent for Epogen, it has helped the production of other biosimilars EPO drugs. Hence, availability of many biosimilar drugs has renderedlow-cost option to the patients, therefore particularly, in the developing regions the adoption of EPO drugs have increased.Based on product type erythropoietin stimulating agent can divided as Epoetin-alfa, Epoetin-beta, epoetin omega, epoetin delta and darbepoetin-alpha. Application of erythropoietin stimulating agents are classified as anemia, cancer chemotherapy, kidney disorders (ESRD and dialysis), antiretroviral treatment (ART) and others (neural disease and wound healing),Some of the major players in erythropoietin stimulating agent market are Amgen Inc., Biocon, Celltrion, Inc., Hospira Inc., Intas Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson, Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd., Roche, LG Life Sciences Ltd. and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. This report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming yearsRequest TOC of the Report@This report is a complete study of current trends in the market, industry growth drivers, and restraints. It provides market projections for the coming years. It includes analysis of recent developments in technology, Porters five force model analysis and detailed profiles of top industry players. The report also includes a review of micro and macro factors essential for the existing market players and new entrants along with detailed value chain analysis.
Ethylene is the raw material which is used in the manufacture of various derivatives such as polyethylene, ethylene oxide, ethylene dichloride and other derivatives, namely, ethyl benzene, vinyl acetate, alpha olefins, etc.

Ethylene Market

PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 13:13:42

Press Information

Coherent Market Insights

#3200 Seattle, WA 98154 Tel: +1-206-701-6702



Mr. Shah

CEO

+1-206-701-6702

email

https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/global-ethylene-market-371





# 1170 Words

#3200 Seattle, WA 98154 Tel: +1-206-701-6702CEO+1-206-701-6702

Request Sample of Global Ethylene Market: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/371 Ethylene is mainly used in the production of polyethylene, which finds wide applications in packaging industry, automobiles, construction and manufacturing units. These are mainly attributed due to its high tensile strength, resistance to chemicals and heat.Key Feedstock Trends and Analysis of the Ethylene market:Naphtha feedstock segment dominated the ethylene market in 2016, according to the stats provided by Coherent Market Insights. Naphtha is the largest feedstock used in the Asia-Pacific, and Western Europe regions. Ethane is the dominant feedstock used in North America, and Middle East regions. The production cost of ethylene is comparatively low with ethane as a feedstock compared to naphtha.In North America, the boom in exploiting shale gas reserves has led in producing low cost ethane gas, hence lowering the production cost of ethylene to 60% on comparing with naphtha as a feedstock. Furthermore, the boom in exploiting shale gas reserves for the production of ethane in North America has led to a lot of capacity expansions in ethylene plants. The region has witnessed over 2 million MT/Year of ethylene capacity addition during the past four years and over 620,000 MT/ year ethylene production is expected to add by 2017.Saudi Arabia being one of the largest producer of oil and gas in Middle East region is able to produce ethylene in just approximately US$ 50 per metric ton with ethane as a feedstock, which in turn is leading to the high capacity addition in the region. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries contributed 11% of global petrochemical-capacity growth over the past ten years and are now a leading global producer and supplier to world markets of ethylene and its derivatives. There are many projects which are under construction or at the planning stage in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, and Oman would be able to add a further 34 million tons of annual capacity over the following years, which in turn will increase the GCCs share of global ethylene production from 18% to 21% by 2025.The regions such as Middle East, and North America are also using propane, butane and MTO as a feedstock to produce ethylene at a low cost on comparing with naphtha. Currently, North America and Middle East are the dominant regions for consuming propane and butane as a feedstock for producing ethylene in much lower cost than naphtha.In Asia-Pacific, China is the largest coal consuming country in developing energy has started using coal and MTO as a feedstock to produce ethylene from its coal to olefins (CTO) and methanol to olefins (MTO) plants. This has lowered the cost of producing ethylene at a much higher rate in the country, which in turn has led to lot of capacity expansions of ethylene in China. Furthermore, the ethylene capacity in India for fiscal year 2016-17 is projected at 4.8 MMT which includes Reliance J3 expansion as well as ONGC Petro additions Limited (OPAL) having commissioned its mega petrochemical complex at Dahej. The total ethylene capacity in India is projected to be 7.2 MMT during fiscal year 2017-18.Hence, the feedstock cost trends are largely driving consumption growth between geographic regions. The growing consumption of ethane, propane, butane and coal for the low cost of production of ethylene is the major factor for the robust growth in the ethylene market during the forecast period.Key takeaways of the market:Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the market in 2016 and the trend is expected to remain the same during 2017-2025. The increasing demand of ethylene derivatives in various end-use industries such as packaging, automobile, and construction industry, and continuous capacity addition of ethylene in China and India over following years are the major driving force to position Asia-Pacific as the largest and fastest-growing region in the global ethylene market. Moreover, North America is expected to experience a second highest CAGR of 5.6% in terms of volume, during the forecast period. This is due to the shale gas boom in the country is leading to the huge growth in the natural gas production which in turn is allowing North America for the huge capacity addition in the following years.The market in Middle East is expected to register a significant growth rate over the forecast period. Capacity addition coupled with cheap raw material price are expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market in this region. For instance, Sadara Chemical Company announced to increase their ethylene production capacity by 1500 thousand metric tons per year in Saudi Arabia.Polyethylene industry is one of the key industries for the use of Ethylene. Polyethylene are widely used in the manufacture of high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), crosslinked polyethylene (PEX), and many more which finds wide applications in various food & non-food packaging, shrink & elastic films, extruded pipes, and molding. For instance, The Dow Chemical Company has a 250,000 MT/year polyethylene expansion at its Louisiana Operations complex in Plaquemine set for completion by end-2017, is expected to boost the market for polyethylene, which in turn is driving the ethylene market during the forecast period. Also, in 2016, Gail India Ltd. has commissioned a new processing line for polyethylene at its Pata petrochemical facility in Uttar Pradesh (UP) increasing its PE capacity by 400,000 tonnes per annum (TPA).Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), Exxon Mobil Corporation, The Dow Chemical Company, Royal Dutch Shell plc, China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec Corporation), Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC, Total S.A., LyondellBasell Industries, National Petrochemical Company (NPC), and INEOS Group AG, and others are few of the key players in global ethylene market.To Get Discount On This Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-discount/371 There are various organic, and inorganic growth strategies which are being followed by the leading market players in the market. Capacity expansion is leading to the key driver in the acquisition and joint ventures. For instance, Mexichem had signed a 50/50% co-investment agreement with OxyChem to build a 550 thousand ton annual capacity ethylene cracker, investing close to US$1.5 billion, and is expected to start operation in 2017. Also, there are lot of capacity expansions is been done in Asia-Pacific region from both domestic and international market players includes Jiangsu Sailboat (China - 320 thousand tons per year), KPIC (Korea - 330 thousand tons per year), Shenhua Ningmei (China - 430 thousand tons per year), Changzhou Fund (China - 130 thousand tons per year), Zhongtian Hechuang No2 (China - 300 thousand tons per year), Reliance Jamnagar (India  1,365 thousand tons per year), CNOOC Shell (China - 1000 thousand tons per year), Lotte Titan (Malaysia  92 thousand tons per year), and Shaanxi Yanchang (China - 300 thousand tons per year).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 UsMr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@ coherentmarketinsights.com Website: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ Visit Blog : http://globalresearchtrends.blogspot.in/
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 14:06:03

LONDON and SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Wandera, the global mobile security provider, announces the appointment of internationally recognized telecommunications executive Luis Alvarez as Strategic Advisor, his first role since leaving BT.

As CEO of BT Global Services, Luis Alvarez ran a $10bn business in networked IT services, serving around 7,000 corporate and public sector enterprises in over 170 countries worldwide. This includes every single organization in the FTSE 100 and 86% of the Fortune 500.

As the leader in the emerging market of enterprise mobile security, Wandera is experiencing a period of rapid expansion, growing almost 250% year-on-year. The company recently announced one of the largest cyber security financing rounds of 2017 to bring its capital raised to $50 million.

Wandera was founded by serial UK technology entrepreneurs Eldar and Roy Tuvey, whose previous security company ScanSafe was acquired by Cisco in 2010, marking the beginning of its foray into cloud security.

"Given the enormous and growing opportunity for mobile security, and the far-reaching potential for our cloud data science, it's vital for us to call on industry executives with both technical knowledge and in-depth strategic expertise. We're honored to welcome Luis Alvarez as our Strategic Advisor. He brings to bear over 25 years of front-line operational excellence, and offers internationally recognized thought leadership as recently evidenced by BT's innovative Cloud of Clouds strategy. He is a great partner for us as we work to build another global cyber leader from the UK," said Roy Tuvey, Co-Founder and President of Wandera.

Over the course of 18 years at BT, Luis held many executive positions including President of Europe, Middle East and Africa and Latin America, serving some of BT's biggest strategic accounts. He was also head of BT's Global Telecom Markets unit, managing business with carriers and operators outside the UK.

"Wandera is a prime example of the inspiring innovation currently happening in the UK. Mobile cyber threats are a growing phenomenon, and it's been impressive to learn how Wandera has been building world-class technologies to both identify and protect against them. I've witnessed Wandera's success in securing some of the largest enterprises in the world, and now I'm joining the growing crowd of industry experts that recognize the powerful differentiation of their unique cloud approach," said Luis Alvarez.

Luis has won many awards, including one from ComputerWorld recognizing his international career, as well as recognition as "Manager of the Year" from Directivo Plus and as "Engineer of the Year" by the Spanish Association of Telecommunications Engineers.

He is often called upon to speak at ICT sector international conferences, including World Economic Forum events. Luis has also been very active in BT's global sustainability work, sponsoring several highly respected corporate social responsibility initiatives.

About Wandera

Wandera is the experts' choice in mobile security. This year, Wandera was awarded SC Magazine's Mobile Security Solution of the Year, and was widely recognized by the leading analysts covering the emerging Mobile Threat Defense category. Wandera's mobile security is powered by the deepest visibility into data coming in and out of mobile devices and apps. The industry's largest mobile dataset is analyzed in real-time by powerful cloud intelligence engine MI:RIAM. Wandera is the only solution that gives security leaders the ability to both manage risk and prevent threats in enterprise mobility. Founded in 2012, Wandera protects several hundred enterprise customers and is headquartered in London and San Francisco. For more information visit wandera.com
By Ruth Anderah

The Court of Appeal has confirmed that NRMs Peter Ssematimba as the validly elected Member of Parliament for Busiro South constituency in Wakiso district.

The ruling was made by three judges led by the Out-going Deputy Chief Justice Steven Kavuma, Catherine Bamugemereire and Cheborion Barishaki.

The judges overturned the High courts decision of Justice Lydia Mugambe that had nullified Ssematimbas election on grounds of lack of requisite academic qualifications.

The court of Appeal faulted justice Mugambe for misdirecting herself on the law regarding issuance of certificates of equivalence by National Council of Higher Education and drawing a wrong conclusion to cancel Ssematimbas certificate of Alevel equivalence issued by NCHE.

The justices have ruled that justice Mugambe had no right to interfere with NCHEs work since the certificate of equivalence it issued to Ssematimba was not the one under challenge but rather his academic documents from USA.

The court has also faulted Justice Mugambe for rejecting Ssematimbas original copy of his Diploma in Electronic and Computer Technology and other pieces of evidence of his former classmates from Pacific Coast Technical Institute in USA that proves that he indeed attended the said college before its closure in 1989.

The above coupled with the failure of DPs Stephen Ssekigozi to discharge his burden of proving that Ssematimbas academic documents are forged was the basis for the court of appeal to allow Ssematimbas appeal.

The justices have also ordered that Ssekigozi pays Ssematimba costs of the petition he filed at the High court and for this appeal.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:48:36

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 696 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

Locust bean gum is cost effective food additive that is used across different application of food in order to meet consumers demand. It is used as a gelling agent, thickener, stabilizers and fat replicators in food technology. Moreover it can be used as a chocolate substitute owing to its sweet flavor. The global locust bean gum market can be segmented on the basis of application, function and geography. The application segment is further bifurcated into food and beverages, pharmaceutical, textile, cosmetics and others. The function segment includes stabilizing function, texturing function, and coating function among others. In addition, the report provides a cross-sectional analysis of all the above segments with respect to different geographical regions including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Rest of the World (RoW).Request Sample Copy of the Report@Locust bean gum is replacing the application of guar gum in food and beverage industries due to its low price. This is expected to be the key factor boosting the growth of locust bean gum market globally. Moreover, increasing demand for convenience food also fuelling the demand for locust bean gum. Busy lifestyle and changing eating patterns are driving the growth of convenience food products which in turn is escalating the demand of locust bean gum on account of its increasing application as a thickener and gelling agent. In addition, the global locust bean gum market is expected to show a robust growth owing to the increasing demand for low cholesterol food products by health conscious customers. Locust bean gum has the ability to suppress the fat content of food products by dispersing in the water and acts as a fat replacer.However the low price of the locust bean gum fetches very less profit to the locust bean growers worldwide. This is predicted to hamper the future supply of locust bean. Imbalance between demand and supply due to shortage of resources is expected to hinder the growth of global locust bean gum market. Moreover, Carob tree which is the main source of locust bean are mainly grown in Mediterranean region. During winter, frost in this region mostly damages the fruits of Carob trees which results in fewer yields of locust beans. Owing to this, the prices of locust bean gum considerable fluctuate, thus limiting industries to switch to locust bean gum.In 2014, among the different application segment the food and beverage segment held the largest share in terms of locust bean gum market. Increasing application of locust bean gum in food and beverage industry as a fat replicators and stabilizer is expected to trigger the growth of locust bean gum in food and beverage segment.Food and beverage industry is followed by textile industry. Use of locust bean gum is rapidly increasing in textile industry as print paste thickener and sizing agent.Geographically, Europe held the largest market for locust bean gum in 2014. Among Europe, UK followed by Germany is the largest importer of locust bean gum owing to the high demand of from different application segment. Europe is followed by Asia Pacific region. The locust bean gum market is Asia Pacific region is primarily driven by China followed by India. Huge customer base in Asia Pacific region owing to increasing population coupled with rising disposable income provides better scope for food and beverage industries. This in turn is driving the global locust bean gum market. On the other hand North America is losing its market share due to high price of locust bean gum.Request TOC of the Report@Some of the major key players in the global locust been gum market are Cargill, Kerry group, FMC Specialty Chemicals, Gum Technology Corporation and E.I. Dupont De Nemours & Company.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. Geographies analyzed under this research report includeNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeMiddle East and AfricaLatin AmericaThis report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming years
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 15:04:01

The Intellis Platform Includes the World's Smallest Implantable Spinal Cord Stimulator and

Offers Personalized Pain Relief and Advanced Activity Tracking

DUBLIN - September 18, 2017 - Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) today announced FDA approval and U.S. launch of the Intellis(TM) platform for the management of certain types of chronic intractable pain. The Intellis platform was designed to overcome limitations with current spinal cord stimulation (SCS) systems, such as battery performance, and can power the EvolveSM workflow*, which standardizes guidance and balances high-dose (HD) and low-dose (LD) therapy settings. The Intellis platform can record and track patient activity 24/7 and is managed on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 tablet interface, enabling physicians to address the subjective and personal nature of chronic pain by monitoring progress and making modifications to better suit their patients' therapy needs.

Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C. implanted one of the first patients in the U.S. with the Intellis device.

"Chronic pain is challenging to manage. Having real-time data can provide more information about patients' quality of life changes," said Dr. Lance Roy, pain medicine specialist at Duke University Medical Center. "This platform represents a welcome new option for managing some kinds of chronic pain. New non-opioid treatment options are important given the national crisis related to opioid abuse."

Back problems are one of the top 10 most expensive medical conditions, with an estimated 30 percent of the 300,000 patients annually that undergo lumbosacral spine procedures developing chronic intractable pain.1 Chronic pain can negatively impact all aspects of a person's life - relationships, work productivity and activities of daily living, yet it remains under-recognized and undertreated.1 Neurostimulation has been proven to provide effective long-term pain relief and improve quality of life, in addition to being a treatment option for patients interested in trying a non-drug alternative.2-6

"Drawing upon our 40-year legacy in SCS, the launch of the Intellis platform isn't just about a new device, but about combining cutting edge hardware with optimal therapy through the Evolve workflow to enable personalized, long-term pain relief," said Marshall Stanton, M.D., senior vice president and president of Medtronic's Pain Therapies division, which is part of the Restorative Therapies Group. "Medtronic is committed to addressing patient needs, so the Intellis platform was designed based on what is most important to patients and physicians. We considered the entire patient journey - starting with the primary goal of optimal pain relief and access to important diagnostic tools, like MRI, to ease of use with simplified programming, faster recharge and a smaller implant."

About the Intellis(TM) Platform

The Intellis platform can help optimize treatment and improve patient-physician communication by tracking and sharing daily activities, body positions and therapy usage and by giving physicians an objective look at mobility and progress. The Intellis platform also addresses a common patient complaint: battery recharge issues. With Medtronic's proprietary Overdrive(TM) battery technology, the Intellis battery can be fully recharged from empty to full in approximately one hour and physicians can now estimate recharge intervals based on therapy settings.

Additional advances in the Intellis platform include secure wireless Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 programmers for physicians that enable faster delivery of evolving workflows and software upgrades. The Intellis implantable neurostimulator was designed for improved patient comfort and is the world's smallest fully implantable SCS neurostimulator. The Intellis platform also includes both Medtronic's proprietary SureScan(TM) MRI technology for the broadest access available to MRI diagnostic imaging and simple eligibility determination, which allows MRI scans anywhere on the body under certain conditions, as well as AdaptiveStim(TM) technology for automatic adjustments to deliver the right therapy dose to the right location, as the pain target shifts based on body position.

"We are excited to partner with Medtronic in their aim to simplify programming, and streamline therapy management with the Intellis platform," said Dr. Dave Rhew, chief medical officer and head of Healthcare and Fitness for Samsung Electronics America. "Samsung's Galaxy tablets-secured by the HIPAA-ready Samsung Knox mobile security platform-will support future Medtronic therapies and over the air (OTA) software upgrades to ensure clinicians using Intellis have access to the most up-to-date solutions."

About Spinal Cord Stimulation

Medtronic neurostimulation therapy for chronic intractable pain uses a medical device placed under a patient's skin to deliver mild electrical impulses through a lead implanted in the epidural space to block pain signals from going to the brain. SCS is a non-opioid therapy that is clinically proven and cost-effective for treating chronic pain. Multiple randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that SCS provides more effective pain relief than both re-operation and conventional medical management.2-4, 7

Medtonic's Intellis(TM) Spinal Cord Stimulation Platform Click the thumbnail above for a larger image.

About Medtronic Pain Therapies

Medtronic has the broadest portfolio of pain therapies, which have been in use for over 40 years and have benefited hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide. Medtronic developed and leads the field of neuromodulation, the targeted and regulated delivery of electrical pulses and pharmaceuticals to specific sites in the nervous system, and continues to innovate and bring patient-centric advances.

About Medtronic

Medtronic plc (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world's largest medical technology, services and solutions companies - alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. Medtronic employs more than 84,000 people worldwide, serving physicians, hospitals and patients in approximately 160 countries. The company is focused on collaborating with stakeholders around the world to take healthcare Further, Together.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

-end-

*A workflow is guidance only and physicians should use their medical judgement and product labeling to optimize therapy for individual patients, which may require discontinuation or modification of a workflow.



References:

1. Mekhail N, Wentzel DL, Freeman R, Quadri H. Counting the costs: case management implications of spinal cord stimulation treatment for failed back surgery syndrome. Prof Case Manag. 2011;16(1):27-36.

2. North RB., Kidd DH., Farrokhi F, et al. Spinal cord stimulation versus repeated lumbosacral spine surgery for chronic pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Neurosurg; 56: 98-106 (2005).

3. Kumar K., Taylor RS., Jacques L, et al., Spinal cord stimulation versus conventional medical management for neuropathic pain: a multicenter randomised controlled trial in patients with failed back surgery syndrome. Pain; 132: 179-188. (2007).

4. Kemler MA., De Vet HCW., Barendse GAM et al., The effect of spinal cord stimulation in patients with chronic reflex sympathetic dystrophy: two years' follow-up of the randomized controlled trial. Ann Neurol; 55: 13-18 (2004).

5. Taylor RS, Spinal cord stimulation in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Refractory Neuropathic Back and Leg Pain/Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: results of a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage; 31: S13-S19 (2006).

6. Cameron T, Safety and efficacy of spinal cord stimulation for the treatment of chronic pain - a 20 year literature review. J Neurosurg Spine; 100: 254-267 (2004).

7. Kumar K, Taylor RS, Jacques L, Eldabe S, Meglio M, Molet J, et al. The effects of spinal cord stimulation in neuropathic pain are sustained: a 24-month follow-up of the prospective randomized controlled multicenter trial of the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation. Neurosurgery. 2008;63(4):762-70.





This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Medtronic plc via Globenewswire


PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 14:30:29

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 390 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Murchison Minerals Ltd.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Toronto, Ontario (FSCWire) - Murchison Minerals Ltd. (CSE:MUR). has issued a press release with the following headline:Murchison Project Update for Brabant-McKenzieTo 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 Murchison Minerals 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/Murchison Minerals Ltd.Source: Murchison Minerals Ltd. (CSE: MUR, WKN: A2AP1E, ISIN: CA6264262099)Date: September 18, 2017Time: 8:30 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Murchison Minerals 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.)
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:58:53

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 588 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Nano film is a fabrication of quantum dot layers with a built-in gradient of nanoparticle size, composition or density. The unique characteristics of nano films are finding its applications in energy storage devices and design of solar cells. Nano films are generally used for surface modification process in the technological world. Surface modification improves the performance of new and existing products. Techniques used for surface modification process include surface treatments, where the composition of mechanical properties is changed or the deposition of thin films or coatings is altered and a different material is deposited to create a new surface. Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9031 Nano films have extensive applications in microelectronics industry, storage industry, solar energy and optics industry. The commercial method of manufacturing nano films is a challenge. Traditional methods of building nanostructured materials cant form nanostructures while more effective methods like langmuir-blodget microchemical method or atomic layer deposition are expensive. The cost-efficient alternative for manufacturing nano films is flying particles method. Nano films are used for photovoltaic applications to enhance transport of electrons and improve internal quantum efficiency and photocurrent. Magnetic nano films have unique properties and are used in medical industry for biomedical applications. Magnetic nano films are used as a solution for closing surgical wounds and as nanoplasters for localized drug release.The growth in end-use industries is expected to increase consumption of nano films. The growth of microelectronics, storage and solar industry is expected to boost demand for nano films for surface modification applications. In addition, rising consumption of electronics in emerging economies of Latin America and Asia Pacific is set to drive nano films market. Furthermore, nanotechnology?based thin films for biomedical applications are expected to provide new opportunities for market growth. However, availability of substitutes and volatile raw material prices could hamper the growth of this market. The Asia Pacific market is projected to be the fastest growing market for nano films due to increasing demand for electronics and solar energy. The BRIC (Brasil, Russia, India, China) countries are a major market for microelectronics industry. Most of the major international microelectronic manufacturers are focusing on expanding their base in BRIC. Rise in disposable income, large population and rapid economic development is expected to contribute to the growth of microelectronics in emerging economies such as China and India. The growth of microelectronic industry is expected to drive the growth of the nano films market. Mexico, Argentina, Thailand and Turkey are other potential markets for nano film industry. Europe and North America are mature markets and expected to experience moderate to high growth.The nano film industry is highly fragmented and dominated by small and medium enterprises. Companies are investing in research and development to develop different grades of nano films to compete in the market. In addition, companies are using strategic acquisitions and aggressive marketing to capture market share. Furthermore, companies are expanding their presence in emerging economies due to growing demand from end-use industries. Some of the key players operating in this market are Nanofilm( U.S.) , Nanofilm Technologies (U.S.) Nano Foam Technology Private Limited (India), Nano Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd (India), Nano Lab India (India), Cosmo Films Limited (India), Smart Source Technologies (India), NanoGram Corporation (U.S.), MAT-VAC Technology (U.S), LOT-Oriel (United Kingdom), Maxtek Technology (Taiwan) , MicroChem (U.S.) , MetaTechnica (U.S.) and Advanced Thin Film (U.S.) among others. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9031
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:58:56

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 592 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Nanoporous materials comprises of regular organic or inorganic framework that supports a porous structure. The size of these pores is primarily between 100 nanometers and can even be smaller. Nanoporous materials are classified into two broad categories including bulk materials and membranes. Nanoporous membranes include cell membranes while activated carbon and zeolites are examples of bulk nanoporous membranes. Nanoporous materials are manufactured out of natural raw materials; however, artificial nanoporous materials can also be produced. Nanoporous materials with evenly sized pores have the ability of letting only certain substances pass through, while blocking others. Nanoporous materials are sub divided into three types including microporous materials, mesoporous materials and macroporous materials.Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9034 Nanoporous materials are used as adsorbents and ion exchangers, they are also employed in the catalysis process, in nano-reactors, guest-host interactions, as a low dielectric constant mediate. In addition, nanoporous materials are also employed in a wide range of biomedical processes including decontamination, as an antibacterial agent, in the slow release of drugs and as a filter in hemodialysis. Moreover, nanoporous materials are of technological and scientific importance owing to their ability to absorb and cooperate with ions, atoms, molecules on their pore space and their sizable interior surfaces. Zeolites are the most widely used nanoporous materials and are the backbone of the already existing large-scale application segments in key sectors of the chemical industry. The application of zeolites range from high-end catalyst supports to detergent builders specifically in the petroleum and the chemical industry.Some of the key driver of the nanoporous material market is its use in the biomedical industry. The nanoporous industry is a mature industry with a wide range of products having an array of applications and is employed in various industries including the chemical industry and the biomedical industry. However owing to the expanded scope, applicability, environmental rules, and regulations coupled with improved living standards and lifestyles of consumers around the world are stimulating increasing demand for nanoporous products. Furthermore, newly introduced specialized nanoporous adsorbent products are creating novel market opportunities in the electronics manufacturing industry and in the biomedical sector. The demand for nanoporous materials has been the highest in North America owing to the increase in emerging technologies in the biomedical industry and the fast growing chemical industry. However, the nanoporous material industry is expected to be mature over the forecast period. Europe follows North America in the nanoporous materials industry. Owing to the growing chemical industries, the stringent rules and regulations in Europe and the wide scope of applications of nanopowders materials, the demand for these materials is expected to increase over the projected period. In addition, the North American region and the European regions prefer nanoporous materials over other materials as these materials are usually manufactured from natural raw materials and do not have rules and regulations put forth by their respective governments concerning their use either as catalysts or in the biomedical industry as decontamination or antibacterial agents. The demand of nanoporous materials in the Asia Pacific region is expected to increase during the projected period owing to the introduction of new technologies and the high number of chemical industries especially in emerging countries such as India and China. Some of the key companies operating in the nanoporous materials market include Albemarle Corp., American Colloid Company, Nanocor Inc., BASF SE, BASF Catalyst, ExxonMobil Chemical and Cloud Mining Company among others.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9034
64 brands receive Superbrands recognition at Gala Event

NMC Healthcare wins Brand of the Year 2017 by Superbrands

PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 09:02:08

Press Information

OAK Consulting

Conrad Offices, 19th Floor





Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai



Sharon

PR

+97143827880

email

http://www.superbrands.com/ae/





# 546 Words

Conrad Offices, 19th FloorSheikh Zayed Road, DubaiPR+97143827880

Dubai, UAE, September 18, 2017: Superbrands, the independent authority and arbiter of branding, announced that NMC Healthcare has won the coveted 'Brand of the Year' award at the 13th annual Superbrands tribute event, which was held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City. Sixty-four leading brands from the UAE were awarded Superbrands status and the 2017 Superbrands book was unveiled at the event, also dubbed the Oscars of Branding, where the UAEs strongest brands were honoured.Speaking on the well-deserved win by the NMC Healthcare, Mr. Mike English, Director, Superbrands Middle East said, We are thrilled to announce that NMC Healthcare has been voted Brand of the Year for 2017 by Superbrands. The Brand has, over the years, enjoyed a reputable position as one of the most trusted brands thanks to its dedication to providing superior healthcare outcomes, compassionate care, and a sincere commitment to the overall well-being of the community. NMC Healthcare scored the highest points amongst all the brands and we would like to congratulate them and wish them continued success as they continue to keep their core values of Care, Community and Compassion. Established in 1975, NMC is the largest private healthcare services provider and one of the largest wholesale and distribution businesses in the UAE. It also ranks amongst the top three fertility providers in the world. NMC does not restrict itself to providing medical care to its patients but tries to ensure that the patients can lead fulfilling lives ahead. Every day over 12,000 patients receive treatment at NMC facilities across UAE, Spain, Italy, Colombia, Denmark, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Oman. NMCs team of 1,200 doctors and 10,000 paramedical and support personnel manages eleven hospitals, fifteen medical centres, three long term care facilities, two day surgery centres, thirteen fertility clinics and one home health services provider.With over 2,000 leading brands in the UAE vying for the coveted Superbrands title, only sixty-four scored more than 80% of the total possible mark and were declared Superbrands by the Brand Council. Winning this accolade is a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing customers, potential customers, the media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brands exceptional status. This year, Superbrands were voted not only by the brand council but also by online voting, which has expanded the voting base to almost 2,000 senior managers and marketing professionals.The Superbrands programme acknowledges and rewards the highest standards of branding. Over the years, the Superbrands organisation has achieved international acclaim for being the independent authority and arbiter of branding excellence. The organisation is committed to the cause of promoting exceptional brands and the discipline of branding in the region.The 2017 Superbrands book is a coffee table book, which includes a two-page profile of each Superbrand tracing the foundation and development of the brand and a Things You Didnt Know section highlighting interesting facts about the brand and its unique achievements was also unveiled at the Tribute Event."This year it is heartening to see so many local home grown brands and some new entrants in the market make it into the Superbrands UAE book in addition to internationally recognized brands. To be voted a Superbrand is a powerful endorsement and is evidence for existing customers, potential customers, media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brands exceptional status, Mr. English concluded.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 14:30:48

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 398 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Northern Superior Resources Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Sudbury, Ontario (FSCWire) - Northern Superior Resources Inc. (TSX Venture:SUP). has issued a press release with the following headline:Northern Superior Initiates Fall Core Drill Program, Croteau Est Target: High Grade ShootsTo 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 Northern Superior Resources Inc., 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/Northern Superior Resources Inc.Source: Northern Superior Resources Inc. (TSX Venture: SUP, OTCQB: NSUPF)Date: September 18, 2017Time: 8:30 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Northern Superior Resources Inc. 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.)
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 12:47:01

Combination enhances capabilities, innovation and competition for customers

Meaningful shareholder value creation opportunity driven by strategic fit, revenue synergies from new opportunities, and cost savings

Expected to be accretive to EPS and FCF per share in first full year; estimated annual cost savings of $150 million by 2020

Strong combined cash flow generation supports financial flexibility and continued execution of capital deployment strategy

Conference call scheduled for Monday, Sept. 18, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time

FALLS CHURCH Va. and DULLES, Va., Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC), a leading global security company, and Orbital ATK, Inc. (NYSE:OA), a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Northrop Grumman will acquire Orbital ATK for approximately $7.8 billion in cash, plus the assumption of $1.4 billion in net debt. Orbital ATK shareholders will receive all-cash consideration of $134.50 per share. The agreement has been approved unanimously by the Boards of Directors of both companies. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2018 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and Orbital ATK shareholder approval.

"The acquisition of Orbital ATK is an exciting strategic step as we continue to invest for profitable growth. Through our combination, customers will benefit from expanded capabilities, accelerated innovation and greater competition in critical global security domains. Our complementary portfolios and technology-focused cultures will yield significant value creation through revenue synergies associated with new opportunities, cost savings, operational synergies, and enhanced growth. We look forward to welcoming Orbital ATK's talented employees to Northrop Grumman, and believe our combined strength will benefit our customers and shareholders," said Wes Bush, chairman, chief executive officer and president of Northrop Grumman.

"We are very pleased to announce this agreement with Northrop Grumman. It reflects the tremendous value Orbital ATK has generated for our customers, shareholders and employees. The unique alignment in culture and mission offered by this transaction will allow us to maintain strong operational performance on existing programs while we pursue new opportunities that require the enhanced technical and financial resources of a larger organization. Our employees will also benefit from greater development and career opportunities as members of a larger, more diverse aerospace and defense enterprise. We will remain focused on operational excellence and execution during and after the transition into Northrop Grumman," said David Thompson, president and chief executive officer of Orbital ATK.

Upon completion of the acquisition, Northrop Grumman plans to establish Orbital ATK as a new, fourth business sector to ensure a strong focus on operating performance and a smooth transition into Northrop Grumman. On a pro forma 2017 basis, Northrop Grumman expects to have sales in the range of $29.5 to $30 billion based on current guidance. Northrop Grumman expects the transaction to be accretive to earnings per share and free cash flow per share in the first full year after the transaction closes, and to generate estimated annual pre-tax cost savings of $150 million by 2020.

Northrop Grumman has received fully committed debt financing and expects to put in place permanent financing prior to closing. Northrop Grumman remains committed to maintaining a solid investment grade credit rating and will use its strong cash flow to support debt reduction, while continuing to pay a competitive dividend and repurchase shares.

Perella Weinberg Partners LP is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Northrop Grumman and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is acting as legal counsel. Citigroup is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Orbital ATK and Hogan Lovells US LLP is acting as legal counsel.

Northrop Grumman will hold a conference call to discuss the transaction beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, Sept. 18. Participants should call (877) 600-7013 at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start. A link to the webcast and an investor presentation can be found on the Investor Relations pages of Northrop Grumman and Orbital ATK websites at http://investor.northropgrumman.com and www.orbitalatk.com/investors. For those who cannot participate in this call, it will be archived on the Northrop Grumman Investor Relations page for a limited time. It will also be recorded and available for replay by phone Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, 11:30 a.m. Eastern time through Monday, Oct. 2, 2017, 11:59 p.m. Eastern time, by calling 1-855-859-2056 (domestic) or 1-404-537-3406 (international). Please use conference ID 87599583.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.northropgrumman.com.

Orbital ATK is a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies. The company designs, builds and delivers space, defense and aviation systems for customers around the world, both as a prime contractor and merchant supplier. Its main products include launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; missile products, subsystems and defense electronics; precision weapons, armament systems and ammunition; satellites and associated space components and services; and advanced aerospace structures. For more information, visit www.orbitalatk.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This communication may contain statements, other than statements of historical fact that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "plan," "project," "forecast," "believe," "estimate," "outlook," "anticipate," "trends," "goals" and similar expressions generally identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to Northrop Grumman's future financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows, expected benefits of the proposed acquisition, the timing of the proposed acquisition and financing the proposed acquisition. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions, expectations, plans and projections that Northrop Grumman and Orbital ATK believe to be reasonable when made, but which may change over time. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and inherently involve a wide range of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Specific risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: those discussed in this communication, those identified under "Risk Factors" and other important factors disclosed in Northrop Grumman's Annual Report on Form 10-K and from time to time in Northrop Grumman's other filings with the SEC; the possibility that Orbital ATK stockholders may not approve the proposed acquisition; the possibility that the closing conditions of the proposed acquisition may not be satisfied; the possibility that regulatory approvals required for the proposed acquisition may not be obtained on acceptable terms, on the anticipated schedule, or at all; the possibility that long-term financing for the proposed acquisition may not be available on favorable terms, or at all; the risk that closing of the proposed acquisition may not occur or may be delayed, either as a result of litigation or otherwise; the occurrence of an event that could give rise to termination of the proposed acquisition; the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with the proposed acquisition may affect the timing or occurrence of the proposed acquisition or result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; the possibility that anticipated benefits of the proposed acquisition may not be realized or may take longer to realize than expected; the possibility that costs related to Northrop Grumman's integration of Orbital ATK's operations may be greater than expected and/or that revenues following the proposed acquisition may be lower than expected; the effect of the transaction on the ability of Northrop Grumman and Orbital ATK to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers and customers, including the U.S. Government; responses from customers and competitors to the proposed acquisition; the possibility that Northrop Grumman's business or Orbital ATK's business may be disrupted due to transaction-related uncertainty; the risk that the proposed acquisition may distract Northrop Grumman's management from other important matters; the impact of legislative, regulatory and competitive changes; results from the proposed acquisition different than those anticipated; and the other risks and uncertainties detailed in Orbital ATK's filings, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K, with the SEC.

You are urged to consider the limitations on, and risks associated with, forward-looking statements and not unduly rely on the forward-looking statements including the accuracy thereof. Forward-looking statements are based on information, plans and estimates as of the date they are made and there may be other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Neither Northrop Grumman nor Orbital ATK undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed acquisition of Orbital ATK by Northrop Grumman. In connection with the proposed acquisition, Orbital ATK intends to file relevant materials with the SEC, including a proxy statement in preliminary and definitive form. Following the filing of a definitive proxy statement with the SEC, Orbital ATK will mail the definitive proxy statement and a proxy card to each stockholder entitled to vote at the special meeting relating to the proposed acquisition. Stockholders of Orbital ATK are urged to read these materials (including any amendments or supplements thereto) and any other relevant documents Orbital ATK will file with the SEC in connection with the proposed acquisition when such documents become available, including Orbital ATK's definitive proxy statement, because they will contain important information about the proposed acquisition. Investors and security holders are able to obtain the documents (once available) free of charge at the SEC's web site, http://www.sec.gov, and from Orbital ATK by going to its investor relations web site at www.orbitalatk.com/investors. Such documents are not currently available.

Participants in Solicitation

Northrop Grumman and its directors and executive officers, and Orbital ATK and its directors and executive officers, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the holders of Orbital ATK shares of common stock in respect of the proposed acquisition. Information about the directors and executive officers of Northrop Grumman is set forth in the proxy statement for Northrop Grumman's 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 31, 2017. Information about the directors and executive officers of Orbital ATK is set forth in the proxy statement for Orbital ATK's 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on June 23, 2017. Information regarding the identity of the potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests in the proposed acquisition, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the proxy statement and other materials to be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed acquisition.

Northrop Grumman contacts:

Tim Paynter (Media)

703-280-2720

Steve Movius (Investors)

703-280-4575

Orbital ATK contact:

Barron Beneski (Media & Investors)

703-406-5528

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Northrop Grumman Corp. via Globenewswire


PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 20:00:09

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 586 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Potassium carbonate occurs as a white powder or granules that are soluble in water. It forms a strong alkaline solution when mixed in water. Potassium carbonate is an aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide. It is known to be the chief constituent of potash and refined pearl ash or tartar. The other terms by which potassium carbonate is known include pearl ash, carbonate of potash, salt of wormwood, salt of tartar and dipotassium carbonate. Potassium carbonate melts at 891 degree celcius and is insoluble in alcohol. It is available in various grades that include food grade, industrial grade, light and heavy density among others. Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9019 Potassium carbonate is produced commercially by electrolysis of potassium chloride, which is further carbonated with the help of carbon dioxide forming the end product potassium carbonate. This potassium carbonate is further used in the manufacturing of other potassium compounds. In its aqueous form, potassium chloride is used to remove carbon dioxide from ammonia production synthesis gas in the fertilizer industry. Potassium carbonate neutralizes acids exothermally to form salts and water. It reacts with specific metals such as zinc and aluminium to form oxides of hydroxides of the metal and even of gaseous hydrogen. It is also said to initiate polymerization in the polymerizable organic compounds especially in epoxides. It serves as a catalyst for most of the reactions and reacts when heated above 84 degree celcius with aqueous solutions of reducing sugars.The various applications of potassium carbonate include in the manufacturing of china products, glass and soap, to make a safe electrolyte for production of oxyhydrogen which is the commonly used electrolyte, as a buffer agent in the manufacture of wine or mead, used for softening hard water, used as a suppressant in extinguishing fryers, used in gunpowder as a stable source of energy, used as an ingredient in welding fluxes and arc welding rods and as an animal feed ingredient to satisfy requirement of potassium of broiler breeds.The growing demand for potassium carbonate from the glass industry is driving the potassium carbonate market. The glass industry is the largest consumer of potassium carbonate in manufacturing specialty glasses that also include television tunes among other glass products. The other industries which are anticipated to boost demand for potassium carbonate include pharmaceutical that include potassium carbonate in manufacturing medicines and agricultural where it is used as a fertilizer for crops that are sensitive to chloride ions.Health hazard is the major factor that may hamper the market growth of potassium carbonate in the near future. Potassium carbonate is known to be strong irritant to eyes and skin. It is harmful if swallowed, it may cause burns from mouth to stomach. If ingested in large amounts can lead to ulcerations, vomiting and death from shock. North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Rest of the World (RoW) are the major segments for potassium carbonate market. Asia Pacific is expected to be the largest market for potassium carbonate due to the large applications for food grade potassium carbonate in the food industry. The developed economies are also anticipated to boost growth for the market owing to the potassium carbonate consumption in the agriculture and pharmaceutical industries.Some of the key companies profiled for potassium carbonate market include: Armand Products, ACTH, Zhejiang Dayang, Wentong Group, Qinghai Yanhu, Shandong Lunan, Qinghai Yanhu and CCCL among others.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9019
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 19:58:51

Press Information

Transparecny Market Research

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com



Rohit Bhisey

Head Internet Marketing

+1-518-618-1030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com





# 707 Words

Transparency Market Research 90 State Street, Suite 700 Albany, NY 12207 Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.comHead Internet Marketing+1-518-618-1030

Pharmaceutical product manufacturing comprises stringent procedure in which monitoring and regulation of each and every step is highly essential and crucial affair. The pharmaceutical products are related with the health and life of an individual; hence the errorless analysis of each and every step is required.Request Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=9028 According to the U.S. FDA, process analysis technology (PAT) can be defined as a mechanism or system used to analyze, evaluate and control pharmaceutical manufacturing process with the help of evaluation of critical process parameters (CPP) that influences critical quality attributes (CQA). Owing to tight regulations and requirements of various international certificates such as ISO and GMP for critical monitoring of pharmaceutical processes, the demand of these techniques has been increased.The market of process analytical technologies for pharmaceuticals can be segmented on the basis of processes (services), equipment and applications of PAT. The equipment are further divided into spectrophotometers (mass spectrometer, UV-Visible spectrophotometer, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrophotometer, infrared spectrometers), chromatography instrument set (thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography), dissolution instrument, particle size analyzers (sieving, sedimentation, dynamic light scattering, aerosol mass spectrometry), capillary electrophoresis devices and others (hardness tester, physical properties [size, shape, color], friability test). On the basis of services, it is segmented into consultancy, calibration and database management system (DBMS). Moreover, on the basis of applications, it is divided into lyophilization, coating, compression, evaporation, raw material selection, packaging and others. Additionally, the market is segmented on the basis of geography, such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World (RoW). At present, North America and Europe are the most prominent markets, owing to extensive pharmaceutical industries. However, Asia-Pacific and some countries in RoW are expected to show lucrative growth in the upcoming period, owing to increase in number of pharmaceutical infrastructure and technologies.The market of process analytical technologies for pharmaceuticals is expected to show a lucrative growth during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. This growth is expected to fuel by the factors such as strong pharmaceutical infrastructure in developed countries and rapid increase in number of pharmaceutical production units in the developing countries and technological advancements. Increasing pharmaceutical production and R&D are considered as the most important drivers of this market. For instance, according to the statistics provided by the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Association (EFPIA), the pharmaceutical production in Europe has increased from USD 112,000 million in 1990 to USD 2,620,000 million in 2012. This astonishing increase in pharmaceutical sector is expected to propel the market growth during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. Furthermore, owing to technological advancements, a number of new and technologically sound devices are entering in the global market and the entry of these devices is anticipated to contribute in the growth of the market. Other important factors that are likely to drive market growth include increasing regulatory and government pressure to implement various tests during manufacture, rising prevalence of different diseases that fuels the demand of pharmaceutical formulations and others. On the other hand, high cost and tedious operations of the instruments, lack of technically competent workforce and threat of malfunctions and false results are the key hurdles that are likely to limit the growth of PAT market during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020.Some of the major companies operating in this market include Danaher Corporation, Honeywell, Agilent Technologies, Fluke Biomedical, Tektronix, Inc. Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. and Carl Zeiss AG amongst others.This research report analyzes this market on the basis of its market segments, major geographies, and current market trends. This report provides comprehensive analysis ofMarket growth driversFactors limiting market growthCurrent market trendsMarket structureMarket projections for upcoming yearsThis report is a complete study of current trends in the market, industry growth drivers, and restraints. It provides market projections for the coming years. It includes analysis of recent developments in technology, Porters five force model analysis and detailed profiles of top industry players. The report also includes a review of micro and macro factors essential for the existing market players and new entrants along with detailed value chain analysis.Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=9028
By Moses Ndhaye & Moses Kyeyune

The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda has called for a referendum on the proposed removal of constitutional age cap for running for president.

The current age limit is 75 but the changes to the constitution would allow President Yoweri Museveni whose current age is said to be 73 to run for president again in 2021.

Addressing the media in Kampala this afternoon, the Mufti of Uganda and chairman of the council Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje said this issue should not be politicized because it concerns every one.

Meanwhile Police has summoned three anti- age limit campaign Members of Parliament over allegations of offensive communication and inciting violence.

In a letter dated 15th September 2017, the Director of Criminal Investigations has directed MPs Muhammad Nsereko, Monica Amoding and Theodore Sekikubo to report on Tuesday for questioning before the commissioner responsible for media crimes.

Earlier, however Joseph Ssewungu, one of the MPs opposed to the age limit campaign said they are ready to die defending the constitution.

The opposition Forum for Democratic Change too has revealed plans to stage nationwide demonstrations in protest of the proposed lifting of the age limit by some members of the parliament.

The FDC Secretary General Nandala Mafabi has also told journalists that they intend to petition the Speaker of parliament on the matter on Thursday this week.

Earlier on Monday, at least seven members of the Alternative Pressure group were arrested in Kampala, following demonstrations against a proposed bill to lift the age limit to run for president.

Youth activist group The Alternative, who organised the demonstration, says their offices were broken into last night by soldiers and police.

Another NRM caucus meeting is scheduled for Wednesday ahead of the tabling of the motion on Thursday.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 15:03:01

Seattle, Wash., Sept. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PrometheanTM, a global education technology company, announced today the appointment of Ravi Angadi as the Chief Products and Strategy Officer for Promethean.

"Ravi Angadi brings to Promethean significant global technology leadership spanning his 20-year career working in large, medium, and start-up technology companies," said Vin Riera, CEO of Promethean. "His expertise and strong strategy and visionary skill sets will ensure that Promethean continues to develop transformative technologies that motivate students to learn."

Angadi has progressively developed both managerial and technical depth in products, software, hardware engineering, and marketing & sales. He joins Promethean from Agilysys, a leader in hospitality enterprise SAAS software, where he has held the position of Vice President of Product Management & Product Marketing. Before Agilysys, Angadi held progressive technology leadership roles with Amazon, Motorola, Managed Objects, and Verdiem. He also served as the CEO of his firm, Bizlogix, which developed next generation business intelligence products for bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparations.

Angadi holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Electrical Engineering from the University of West Indies in Trinidad, a Master's of Science in Computer Engineering from Boston University, and an MBA from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

About Promethean

Promethean is a global education company that improves learning productivity by developing, integrating, and implementing innovative 21st-century learning environments that help make everyone more engaged, empowered, and successful. Promethean's main headquarters is located in Seattle, USA. Promethean is a member of the Net Dragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) group of companies. For more information, please visit PrometheanWorld.com.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a leading innovator and creative force in China's mobile Internet industry. Established in 1999, NetDragon is a vertically integrated, cutting-edge R&D powerhouse with a highly successful track record which includes the development of flagship MMORPGs such as Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved (formerly known as Calibur of Spirit), and Conquer Online, China's number one online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China's most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless, which was sold to Baidu in 2013 as the largest Internet M&A transaction in China at the time. Being China's pioneer in overseas expansion, NetDragon also directly operates a number of game titles in over 10 languages internationally since 2003. In recent years, NetDragon has become a major player in global online and mobile learning space as it works to leverage its mobile Internet technologies and operational know-how to develop a game-changing learning ecosystem. For more information, please visit NetDragon.com.

Media Contact

Christina Dela Cruz, Promethean

Christina.Delacruz@prometheanworld.com

(678) 336-8108

NetDragon Investor Contact

Maggie Zhou

maggie@nd.com.cn

+852 2850 7266 / +86 591 8754 3120

Promethean 2017. All Rights Reserved. Promethean and the Promethean logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Promethean Limited in the United Kingdom, United States, and other countries around the world.

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/944a6bb4-0623-4b7a-a746-d242d2694f85

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f9afe924-b4de-4c9c-9984-3e9e8d329add
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 22:35:25

Press Information

Transparency Market Research

Contact Us





Transparency Market Research



90 State Street, Suite 700



Albany, NY 12207



Tel: +1-518-618-1030



USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453



Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com



Website: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/



Rohit Bhisey

Internet Marketing Head

5186181030

email

http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/





# 675 Words

Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite: www.transparencymarketresearch.com/Internet Marketing Head5186181030

Global Snack Food Manufacturing Market: SnapshotThe global snack food manufacturing market represents a highly dynamic segment of the global food and beverages industry, experiencing an outburst of several innovative product varieties, flavors, and a large number of small and large companies constantly trying to gain a stronghold in the market through novel marketing strategies and product offerings. Considered one of the most popular and most consumed packaged food variety, snack foods continue to account for a significant share in the global foods market. Supporting this trend, the global market for snack food manufacturing is expected to witness expansion at a healthy pace in the next few years.Request Sample Copy of the Report@This report on the global snack food manufacturing market presents a thorough overview of present state of the market and verifiable projections regarding the growth prospects of the market and its segments over the period between 2015 and 2021, on a global as well as regional levels. The report presents detailed analysis of the various factors having a significant influence on the overall development of the market, including drivers, restraints, trends, opportunities, regulatory constraints, and level of competition.The report also gives a detailed account of the five forces shaping up the competitive landscape of the market, thus playing a key role in generating growth opportunities or challenges for established and new entrants in the market. This is done with the help of the detailed analysis of the Porters five forces: threat of new entrants and substitutes, bargaining power of suppliers and buyers, and the level of competition in the market.Global Snack Food Manufacturing Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe chief factors driving the global snack food manufacturing market include the rising trend of nuclear families, an increasing inclination towards Western eating habits among residents in emerging economies, rising disposable incomes, and busy lifestyles. Busy lifestyles, especially, have fuelled the discovery of food products that can be quickly prepared, conveniently carried, and easily consumed, thus driving the market for snack food manufacturing significantly. The rising number of companies and the rapid influx of new product varieties in the market have helped heighten consumer interest about the snack food market.The market is expected to witness healthy growth prospects over the reports forecast period. However, the criticism from healthcare and wellness bodies regarding the role of high consumption of snacks in developing several health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions is expected to hinder markets growth to a certain extent in the next few years.Global Snack Food Manufacturing Market: Geographical and Competitive DynamicsFrom a geographical perspective, the global snack food manufacturing market is dominated by Europe and North America, which collectively hold a massive chunk of the overall market valuation. However, the market is witnessing slow growth across these regions as it has become saturated owing to the dominance of few large companies. Emerging economies such as Asia Pacific and Latin America, on the other hand, are rapidly emerging as the leading demand generators owing to the rapid pace of urbanization and an increasing population of a high-disposable-income population.Owing to the excellent growth prospects offered by the snacks sector, a large number of food and beverage companies have entered into the field through innovative product ranges and continue to serve the global population with new product varieties. Developed regions such as Europe and North America feature intense competition among leading vendors owing to smaller population bases in most profitable markets.Request TOC of the Report@This has compelled companies to shift their focus on emerging economies across regions such as Latin America and Asia Pacific, where the vast rise in population, rising disposable incomes, and busy lifestyles are fueling the demand for snack foods.Some of the key companies operating in the global snack food manufacturing market profiled in the report are Cadbury Schweppes Plc., ConAgra Food Inc., Nestle Inc., Kellogg Company, and PepsiCo.
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 07:33:02

Paris, September 18, 2017 -- Sodexo has completed the sale of Vivabox USA ("Vivabox") to Lion Equity Partners. Vivabox is a leading provider of products and services to the sample and subscription box industry.

Vivabox is a profitable subsidiary providing specialized marketing services to retail businesses. The activity was not a core strategic service for Sodexo and the Group decided to accept Lion Equity Partners' offer for Vivabox, having sold the European Vivabox activities in 2015.

The disposal of this activity generated a capital gain in FY 2017.

The Group confirms its operating profit growth guidance at the bottom of the 8-9% range for FY2017. The currency impact on operating profit will remain just slightly positive, but less than in the first half given the recent strength of the Euro against the US dollar, Sterling and the Brazilian real.

About Sodexo

Founded in 1966 in Marseille by Pierre Bellon, Sodexo is the global leader in services that improve Quality of Life, an essential factor in individual and organizational performance. Operating in 80 countries, Sodexo serves 75 million consumers each day through its unique combination of On-site Services, Benefits and Rewards Services and Personal and Home Services. Through its more than 100 services, Sodexo provides clients an integrated offering developed over 50 years of experience: from foodservices, reception, maintenance and cleaning, to facilities and equipment management; from Meal Pass, Gift Pass and Mobility Pass benefits for employees to in-home assistance, child care centers and concierge services. Sodexo's success and performance are founded on its independence, its sustainable business model and its ability to continuously develop and engage its 425,000 employees throughout the world. Sodexo is included in the CAC 40 and DJSI indices.

Key figures (as of August 31, 2016)

20.2 billion euro consolidated revenue

425,000 employees

19th largest employer worldwide

80 countries

75 million consumers served daily

17.1 billion euro in market capitalization (as of July 5, 2017)

Forward-looking information

This press release contains statements that may be considered as forward-looking statements and as such may not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements represent management's views as of the date they are made and Sodexo assumes no obligation to update them. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Contacts

Analysts and Investors Media Virginia Jeanson

Tel. & Fax: +33 1 57 75 80 56

virginia.jeanson@sodexo.com Laura Schalk

Tel. & Fax: +33 1 57 75 85 69

laura.schalk@sodexo.com

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Sodexo via Globenewswire


PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 10:17:01

Synetics: Oil and Gas Surveillance Specialist Wins Multiple Middle East Contracts

For Synectics

Claire Evans

0161 694 3979

Surveillance solutions business Synectics has secured multiple contracts for onshore and offshore oil and gas developments, spanning Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran.

Encompassing a broad mix of Synectics surveillance and security management solutions, the contracts will see the business deploy over 700 COEX camera stations across the Middle East region  in a number of cases incorporating new, customer-led feature developments.

Off the Egyptian coast, Synectics will be providing an offshore platform with a range of C3000 HD IP, C2000 HD IP and C2000 (PTZ and fixed) camera stations, with specific models featuring new onboard analytics capabilities developed to meet the customer brief. The COEX camera stations, compatible with the on-site VMS, will enable edge-based tripwire detection, negating the need for separate analytics integration.

Darren Alder, Divisional Director  Oil & Gas, said: Our ethos is always to offer truly tailored solutions that meet exact customer requirements as demonstrated in a number of these latest wins. In Egypt, this was about delivering edge-based capabilities. With another contract  one of two recent UAE projects we have secured  the requirement was for an additional layer of protection to their field equipment.

In this instance, we were the only provider able to color-coat camera stations to exact specifications, while ensuring that the coating used still met strict regulatory requirements around aspects such as electrostatic and insulation performance.

The recent wins also include three substantial Saudi Arabian projects  a gas plant, a major refinery and terminal development, and an offshore platform. All three will take delivery of COEX C3000 HD IP and C2000 HD IP cameras (PTZ and fixed) for process control and security monitoring. For two of the projects, these cameras will be deployed as part of full end-to-end safety, security and process monitoring solutions, driven by Synectics Synergy 3 command and control platform.

Darren continued: To secure these contracts we had to undergo a rigorous and comprehensive approved supplier process to demonstrate integration and working practice capabilities  crucial characteristics given the scale of developments involved. One of the projects alone will see us work in partnership with 13 different Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies.

Rounding off the series of wins, Synectics has also announced it is to supply end-to-end process and security management solutions to protect four phases of a significant Iranian development, comprising onshore, offshore and associated infrastructure elements. In each case, Synergy 3 will integrate COEX C3000 HD IP and C2000 HD IP (PTZ and fixed) cameras with site security and process control solutions for comprehensive site protection.

For further news and information on Synectics surveillance solutions for the oil and gas sector, visit www.synecticsglobal.com or follow @synecticsglobal on Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201709180054

Synectics wins multiple Middle East Oil & Gas contracts
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 13:00:38

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 394 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Theralase Technologies Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Toronto, Ontario (FSCWire) - Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX Venture:TLT). has issued a press release with the following headline:Theralase Demonstrates 24 Month Stability of Lead Anti-Cancer DrugTo 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 Theralase Technologies Inc., 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/Theralase Technologies Inc.Source: Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX Venture: TLT, ISIN: CA88337V1004, WKN: A0DLB7, OTCQX: TLTFF)Date: September 18, 2017Time: 7:00 AM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Theralase Technologies Inc. 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.)
PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 07:32:01

Leuven, Belgium, 18th September, 2017 - ThromboGenics NV (Euronext Brussels: THR), a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for retinal disorders, with a focus on diabetic eye disease, announced today that it will regain full global rights to JETREA from Alcon, a Novartis company, based on a mutual agreement that the unique characteristics of JETREA make Thrombogenics a better fit for building a sustainable long-term niche business.

JETREA is the first and only approved pharmacological treatment for symptomatic vitreomacular adhesion (VMA) in the US and vitreomacular traction (VMT) in Europe and elsewhere in the world. First introduced in 2013, JETREA has been approved in 54 countries worldwide, with nearly 30,000 patients being treated in about 20 countries.

Under the terms of the agreement, Alcon and Novartis will work closely with ThromboGenics to ensure continuity and access to JETREA for existing and future customers.

Patrik De Haes, MD, CEO of ThromboGenics nv, said "We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Alcon and Novartis in relation to the non-US rights to JETREA. We intend to take time to evaluate how best to capitalize on the global opportunity that we now have with JETREA. In the near term, it is our key priority to secure the continuity of care by ensuring that patients and physicians have timely access to this unique pharmacological treatment for symptomatic vitreomacular adhesion/ traction (sVMA/VMT). We look forward to working with Novartis during this important transition period."

Dr. De Haes continued, "We are also pleased to welcome Novartis as a shareholder in ThromboGenics as we are developing our pipeline of novel treatments for diabetic eye disease. The significant funds that we have received today will allow ThromboGenics to develop its pipeline of novel disease-modifying drug candidates which are targeting all of the key segments of the diabetic eye disease market."

Under the terms of the agreement, ThromboGenics receives a cash amount of 53.7 million and a forthcoming equity investment of 10 million in ThromboGenics capital.

Following the agreements announced today, ThromboGenics will have over 120 million in cash.

- END -

For further information please contact:

ThromboGenics



Wouter Piepers, Global Head of Corporate Communications & IR



+32 16 75 13 10 / +32 478 33 56 32



wouter.piepers@thrombogenics.com Citigate Dewe Rogerson



David Dible/ Sylvie Berrebi/ Isabelle Andrews



Tel: +44 20 7282 9571



thrombogenics@citigatedr.co.uk

About ThromboGenics

ThromboGenics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for eye disease, with a focus on diabetic eye disease. The company's pipeline of disease modifying drug candidates is targeting the key segments of the diabetic eye disease market.

ThromboGenics is conducting a Phase IIa clinical trial evaluating multiple doses of THR-409 (ocriplasmin) to induce a total Posterior Vitreous Detachment in patients with Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR).

ThromboGenics is conducting a Phase II clinical study evaluating THR- 317, a PLGF inhibitor for the treatment of diabetic macular edema, as a stand-alone or as a combination therapy with anti-VEGF treatments. In addition, THR-149, a plasma kallikrein inhibitor, which has resulted from research collaboration with Bicycle Therapeutics, and THR-687, an integrin antagonist, which was in-licensed from Galapagos, are in late stage pre-clinical development.

ThromboGenics pioneered a new drug category of pharmacological vitreolysis with JETREA (ocriplasmin) which is now approved for the treatment of symptomatic vitreomacular traction in 54 countries worldwide. ThromboGenics is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, and is listed on the NYSE Euronext Brussels exchange under the symbol THR.

More information is available at www.thrombogenics.com

Important information about forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking". Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Company's Annual Report. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of ThromboGenics in any jurisdiction. No securities of ThromboGenics 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. state securities laws.

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: ThromboGenics NV via Globenewswire


PR-Inside.com: 2017-09-18 05:03:24

Visit Oslo: Oslo bails out tourists in Europe, offering A Great Escape

For personal interviews, please contact:

Christian Lunde, Mobile: (+47) 907 73 280

CEO, Visit Oslo

christian.lunde@visitoslo.com

or

Marit Hvik Hartmann, Mobile: +47 932 19 320

Director of Communication and Marketing, Oslo Business Region

marit@oslobusinessregion.no

or

Marela and Sam are also available for interviews. (Please mind the time zone UTC+12):

Marela Glavas, Mobile: +64 2102237255

First time visitor in Norway

marelagl@gmail.com

Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/p/BXmiO4Ej5rQ/?taken-by=

Over the last couple of years, the Nordic countries have been dubbed the nucleus of cool, with their characteristic style, feel and lifestyle even earning its own name; Nordic Cool.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201709170050

To the majority of travelers, however, Europe is still synonymous with the often over-crowded cities and destinations further south on the continent. So the little sister of Nordic Cool, Norwegian capital Oslo, decided to do something about it.

 "Oslo is emerging as one of the trendiest cities to visit. We have a bustling cultural scene, interesting architecture, plenty of great bars and restaurants, as well as closeness to nature. And at the same time, you dont feel part of a tourist crowd," says Christian Lunde, CEO of Visit Oslo.

 Show dont tell

Instead of spending huge money on ads and boards, they decided to follow the motto "show, dont tell". Then they started scouring travel sites and social media for dissatisfied travelers in some of the most tourist dense destinations of Europe.

 "We came across a young couple from New Zealand visiting Europe for the first time. They had just arrived in Paris, and were deeply dissatisfied to find themselves in a baking hot crowd of people, fighting for a peek at the Mona Lisa," says Marit Hartmann from Oslo Brand Alliance.

48 hours in Oslo

Via Instagram, Marela and Sam were invited to jump ship for an unforgettable 48 hours in Oslo. After being convinced that this was a real offer and not an internet scam, the Kiwis packed up their bags, and shortly after they arrived in the Norwegian capital.

 "I dont think we could have predicted any of the activities that we have done in Oslo. For us to feel this way after only just 48 hours here, I think says a lot about what the city has to offer," says Marela Glavas after their stay.

The Great Escape is a large-scale collaboration between public and private stakeholders in Oslo, working together to put the city on the map internationally.

YouTube-video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM0kEq0jPag&fe

Here you can download photos of "The great escape to Oslo": http://bit.ly/2wnktI1

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201709170050
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.




ABES Conference 2017- Brazil

Contact

Blockchain of Things, Inc

Deborah de Castro

***@blockchainofthings.com

646.926.2268 Blockchain of Things, IncDeborah de Castro646.926.2268

End

-- Blockchain of Things, Inc., the leading provider of rapid Bitcoin blockchain integration via its Catenis Enterprise web API services platform, announced today that Markswell Coelho has joined its growing international team.The announcement coincides with Blockchain of Things' participation and keynote address at the Brazilian Association of Software Companies (ABES) conference 2017. ABES is holding its annual event at Sao Paulo's World Trade Center to a sold-out audience of the countries most respected software companies. The major theme of the conference is IoT and Blockchains.Markswell Coelho joins Blockchain of Things as the Country Manager of Brazil, the largest country in Latin America. With more than 15 years of experience, he has been directing technology, business operations, and leading Business development initiatives, with a special focus on the financial industry."Besides growing our local chain of partners and establishing a presence within startup ecosystems, I will focus on expanding the utilization of Catenis Enterprise for the financial services, insurance, healthcare, and education verticals. "- comments Mr. Coelho.Mr. Coelho holds an Executive MBA from Insper and has held prominent positions in the technology field for the last 15 years. His past positions include Country Manager for DUX Group, Country Manager for Arista Networks, and Sales Manager for Oracle."We are excited to bring Markswell Coelho to our team, he brings the skills and experience needed to help us grow our presence in Brazil as our demand has significantly increased over the last months." - Sergio Fabossi, VP Business Development - LATAM.will happen on September 18, 2017, Monday, at the WTC Events Center, located in Avenida das Nacoes Unidas, 12551 - 3 Andar, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.Formed in 2015, BCoT is a leader in blockchain technology. BCoT's Catenis Enterprise platform offers a web services layer for rapid Bitcoin blockchain integration, to simplify and accelerate secure global peer-to-peer edge device messaging, digital asset control, and recording of permanent data. The company is headquartered in New York City, New York.For more information, please visit
By: James Hilgendorf

Taos, New Mexico Reading, "A New Myth for America

End

-- This past weekend, "Traveling to a New America" and James Hilgendorf came to Taos, New Mexico, where the author presented a reading from one of his books, "A New Myth for America". The book reading was held at SOMOS - Society of the Muse of the Southwest.After the reading, a group of members of the audience gathered around for an in-depth discussion about their feelings about the direction and state of life of America.Some of the comments of the reading and discussions that followed the reading were as follows:"I was deeply moved by your talk. It resonated on many levels"."It was inspiring and challenging. The author is a combination of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bernie Sanders, Karl Marx, the Buddha, Ralph Nader, and Walt Whitman.""I enjoyed your presentation, especially your optimism and dedication. I am inspired to remain optimistic in these changing times."This year and next, the author is traveling to towns and cities all across America, meeting people, giving readings and talks, under the banner of "Traveling to a New America".James Hilgendorf is a filmmaker, speaker, poet, and the author of ten non-fiction books that are opening the way to a new vision of ourselves, a new dream of America, a new religion for the world.Of the book, "A New Myth for America", one reviewer wrote:"I do believe a book like 'A New Myth for America' can not only spark an important dialogue in the world, but help us to look at the future with more hope, because we know that all is not lost." - Cyrus Webb, "Conversations Book Club"For more information about the author and his books, or to arrange a talk and reading, see his website at: http://www.jameshilgendorf.org You can follow the journey on Facebook at:
If you are new to iQ you can schedule a demo and learn more about this opportunity.

PSFK iQ - Where Innovators Turn for Research. Our professional-grade research platform is designed specifically for Retail and CX leaders who want to know whats next. Whether youre staying current on trends or need a real-time research partner to help you get ahead, count on PSFK iQ to deliver the info you need to make your next move.
The annual Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance Discovery Show, held from September 15-17, in New Orleans drew representatives from 71 bookstores across the region.

Doug Robinson, owner of Eagle Eye Bookshop in Decatur, Ga., and current president of the board of SIBA, discussed show attendance figures and current membership stats at the organization's town hall event on Friday. Total bookstore membership for SIBA stands at 138, down three members from last year. Booksellers from five stores in Florida, as well as others from Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia, were unable to make the trip to Louisiana due to complications caused by Hurricane Irma. (Total attendance figures for the show were not available at press time.)

Booksellers from 10 stores were first-time attendees to the show, including those from Title Wave Books in Mount Pleasant, S.C, WordsWorth Books & Co in Little Rock, Ark., and Story on the Square in Mcdonoughm, Ga. Missy Couhig, co-owner of The Conundrum Books in St. Francisville, La., was among the first-timers. Its important for us to meet the reps and develop a stronger relationship with them, Couhig said.

Robinson echoed Couhig's sentiments, adding that the show "lets booksellers look at whats on offer a little closer and find things that might work in their store that they night not otherwise see.

The show floor was generally busy and exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the traffic. Most of the booksellers seem to have a general feeling of excitement pertaining to the fall, said David Mallmann, midwest sales representative for W.W. Norton.

Professional development panels took up much of the first two days of the event, on Thursday and Friday, and the show was putting diversity and inclusion issues front-and-center.

Thursday featured a closed door workshop on diversity and inclusion; this was followed Friday by a range of panels covering topics from maximizing backlist sales to another on inventory activism.

Kimberly Daniels of The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines, N.C., who helped oversee the latter panel, explained the concept of inventory activism as one in which a bookseller chooses to stock books that embody values of diversity and inclusion, rather than announcing or promoting direct political action. I live in a community where I cannot put a Black Lives Matter sticker on my front door, Daniels said. So what can I do? I make sure that our 'staff picks' represent books that are diverse and inclusive of the wide variety of authors and subjects we have for sale.

Michelle Cavalier, co-owner of Cavalier House Books in Denham Springs, La., outside Baton Rouge, said she plans to stock and display the forthcoming YA novel Dear Martin by Nic Stone (Crown), about a college-bound African-American man who reacts to injustice by keeping a diary addressed to Dr. Martin Luther King, alongside King's collected works. That will work in my store, she said. On the other hand, I cannot display the new Hilary Clinton book, because there are male customers who will come in and potentially react violently to seeing it. As a woman who sometimes works alone in the store, I can feel threatened. On the flips side of the political coin, Cavalier has opted not to stock Milo Yiannopouloss Dangerous. "That is because of principle, she said, adding that she will order any book a customer requests.

While many booksellers have brought more diversity to their store through the titles they stock, there is a long way to go when it comes to bringing more diversity to their staff. Stone, the Dear Martin author, speaking at a breakfast panel, asked for a show of hands of brown people in the room. A single arm shot up. There is no easy way to change the composition of this room, he said. We dont like talking about it. We dont like looking at it, but we need to.

Aside from diversity, the theme of racism and racial tension came up repeatedly at the show. Eleanor Henderson, author of Twelve Mile Road (Ecco), a novel about a lynching in Georgia in the 1930s, who spoke at a breakfast session on Saturday morning, said she was unsure how much had changed since the time her book portrays. Either way, she went on, "I do hope that this book helps people remember that it is important to look to our past to understand the future.

Author Wiley Cash spent five years working on his new novel, The Last Ballad (William Morrow), which is based on true events that took place in 1929. What he portrays in his book, Cash noted, has an eerie resonance in 2017. My novel is about an independent woman standing up against the forces of corporate greed and racial injustice. She was killed when a crazed person drove into a crowd of protestors," Cash said, inferring that there are stark parallels between the incident in his novel and the recent situation in which a protester was killed during a rally mounted by white nationalists in Charlottesville, Va.

Another topic attendees were discussing, albeit not publicly, was SIBA executive director Wanda Jewell's planned move to San Francisco. A number of booksellers expressed concern about how Jewell will run the organization while being based so far away from its members. Asked why the issue wasn't raised during the town hall meeting, SIBA president Robinson said it was merely that "we ran out of time."

One SIBA board member, who asked to remain anonymous, said "There are a lot of people who feel the organization, which has promoted local book buying and community engagement, should have a director who is local to the region. But we'll deal with that when the time comes."
The final conclusions of the 2017 Pay-TV Innovation Forum have revealed a market that in order to prosper will need to address quickly a number of issues such as piracy, intensifying competition and business model disruption.





Set up by content protection firm Nagra and research and strategy consultancy MTM,the forum is designed to examine the state of innovation in the pay-TV market and provides perspectives on the most attractive areas of opportunity for both service providers and content owners in Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and North America.The 2017 programme has highlighted fundamental findings such as that the pay-TV industry is in a period of unprecedented global change, with many service providers facing a perfect storm of slowing growth, intensifying competition and business model disruption.Indeed, over four-fifths of executives agree that competition in the pay-TV industry is set to increase over the next five years, and nearly three-quarters believe that service providers will struggle to grow their businesses during the same period.Three key disruptive challenges facing the industry worldwide emerged from the study: the proliferation of cheaper OTT services, changing consumer behaviour and demand, and the rise of content piracy. The data noted that two-thirds of executives agree that competition from subscription VOD services will have a negative impact on pay-TV, pushing down prices and increasing churn, and a similar percentage agree that we will see a new wave of mobile-first services to cater to evolving consumer viewing habits.On piracy, the research found that half of executives believe content piracy will lead to greater pressures on the industry over the next five years (up from 41% in 2016) with online streaming, peer-to-peer downloads and IPTV piracy cited as the most important forms of piracy affecting service providers and content owners today. The research goes further to examine actual revenue lost to pay-TV piracy, estimating that service providers could stand to gain $7 billion in unrealised pay-TV revenue annually, if at least a quarter of consumers of pirated pay-TV services would switch to a legitimate option. Additionally, 72% of pay-TV providers see the benefits of engaging in anti-piracy activities, combining technology, legal and enforcement action and consumer education, to bring tangible positive results.Looking to what needs to be done to ensure growth, as many as 85% of executives agree that to grow, pay-TV service providers will need to innovate strongly over the next five years. Three-quarters regard innovation as a top strategic priority. Executives were found to be increasingly focused on delivering standalone OTT services (64% of respondents believe it to be a commercially attractive area opportunity), multiscreen TV Everywhere (67%), app-based TV services (61%) and advanced functionality (53%) such as voice and 4K, alongside innovative content propositions (74%) and new pricing and packaging models (78%.)The second edition of the Pay-TV Innovation Forum provides a comprehensive view of the transformation that is happening in our industry and identifies key areas of opportunity for service providers and content owners, commented Nagra senior director of product marketing Simon Trudelle. It also brings to light new trends, and in particular the rise of content piracy which emerges as a growing concern. Overall, it is clear that the industry recognises the changing nature of TV and the need to adapt quickly to this fast-changing environment. By developing new services and partnerships as part of their innovation roadmap, service providers and content owners will be able to transform and successfully prepare their businesses for the future.
Body cameras for the Mooresville Police Department have arrived. Find out when they will be used.
SAKI, Azerbaijan -- A court in Azerbaijan has sentenced a journalist known for criticizing the government to nine years in prison after a trial his lawyer contends was politically motivated.

The Court for Serious Crimes in the northern city of Saki found Elcin Ismayilli guilty of extortion and abuse of office and sentenced him on September 18.

Ismayilli was arrested in February after a Culture and Tourism Department official claimed the journalist tried to extort money from him.

Ismayilli denies guilt.

His lawyer, Elcin Sadiqov, says the case is politically motivated and also contends that Ismayilli should not have been charged with abuse of office because he holds no office.

Western governments and international human rights groups say President Ilham Aliyev's government has sought to maintain power by persistently persecuting independent media outlets, journalists, and opposition politicians and activists.

Aliyev, who has ruled the oil-producing South Caucasus country of nearly 10 million people since shortly before his father's death in 2003, has shrugged off the criticism.




BAKU -- The air forces of Azerbaijan and Turkey have begun a two-week military exercise in Azerbaijan.

The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said that TurAz Qartal-2017 (Turkish-Azerbaijani Eagle 2017) drill got under way on September 18.

It said that 30 military aircraft would be used in the exercise, which focuses on practicing joint search-and-rescue operations, the destruction of ground targets with air strikes, and other maneuvers.

According to the ministry, the exercise is part of an annual military cooperation plan between the two countries and will end on September 30.

Azerbaijan and Turkey have close relations and are foes of Armenia, which is sandwiched between the two countries.

Azerbaijan's armed forces also began their own exercise on September 18.

Some 15,000 troops, 150 armored vehicles, 120 artillery, rocket, and mortar pieces, and 20 military aircraft are involved in the September 18-22 exercise.
Studio B has been one of Belgrade's most popular radio stations for decades. In the 1970s and 1980s its "Good Morning Belgrade" program was a staple of most Serbian households, and its host, the iconic Dusko Radovic, made sure that all his listeners started the day with a smile. Radovic passed away in 1984, and the country of which Belgrade was the capital city during his lifetime is no more. Much else has changed in the country -- and on the airwaves.

Radovic's old slot now belongs to Sputnik, the Russian state-sponsored media outlet, whose newscast greets Belgraders every morning instead of his cheery voice.

The change is symbolic of Serbia's current role as one of Russia's main strategic concerns in the Balkan region, with Moscow using all the soft power at its disposal to win local hearts and minds.

Sputnik only started broadcasting there in January 2015 -- but it has more than made up for lost time, not least due to the presence of a battery of other Russian media and institutions hammering home the same message. Sputnik is just one out of over 100 pro-Russian media and NGOs, according to the Center for Euro-Atlantic Studies (CEAS), a Belgrade-based think tank.

The head of CEAS, Jelena Milic, explains why Serbia is an easy target for Russian soft power in her study titled "The Russification of Serbia."

"Serbia, as the largest predominantly Orthodox and Slavic country in Central Europe which is yet to become a member of the EU and does not want to become member of NATO, [is] in a dire economic situation with the public exposed to strong propaganda and glorification of traditional Russian-Serbian friendship."

In Milic's opinion, we are witnessing the "Putinization" of Serbia, despite its formal progress toward the EU which should, in theory, preclude the former.

She coined the term "Putin's orchestra" to describe what she sees as the coordinated attempts by individuals, groups, and institutions to undermine public support for European integration, to delay Serbia's rapprochement with the West, and promote Russian interests.

"There is more and more evidence that some members of 'Putin's orchestra' are financed directly from Moscow, she writes.

Belgrade-based analyst Bosko Jaksic does not see pro-Russian groups and individuals in Serbia acting in a coordinated manner yet, but that may not be far away.

"Without a doubt there is an aim to gather those atomized centers of Russian influence into a single, more powerful unit. Although they are not currently operating on a national frequency, so to speak, we can already see this type of coordination at the local and regional level, and the goal of becoming a major player in Serbian politics is evident," Jaksic told RFE/RL in a recent interview.

Jaksic, who was among the first to observe the phenomenon of the Russification of Serbian nationalism, sees the bastions of Russian influence not only among fringe right-wing nationalist groups, but also in more mainstream political parties -- some of which are members of the ruling coalition -- as well as the Serbian Orthodox Church and student organizations.

"Those are all targets of Russian soft power, and it must be said that Moscow's assessment of the most effective ways of achieving its aims has been proven correct: the promotion of Serbian clero-nationalism, anti-European, and anti-Western sentiment."

"Clearly part of it is the emotional appeal of Mother Russia based on a shared Christian Orthodoxy, Pan-Slavism, and the economic and military ties forged during the time of the former Yugoslavia. The combined effect of all these assaults has led to what I have called the 'Russification' of Serbian nationalism -- in other words, its nourishing [of Serbian nationalism by Russia] in order to swerve the country away from its European path."

The idea of Russian-Serbian brotherhood that is at the heart of the appeal of Russian propaganda is based on a myth, according to Jaksic. However, it is a myth that has been skillfully cultivated by the Kremlin, taking advantage of established Russophilia as well as a strong network of pro-Russian NGOs and institutions.

"Most worryingly, these [Russian NGOs] are especially active at universities, and have been extremely successful in the recruitment of young people," Jaksic says.

Russia's first NGO was formed as far back as 1913, and since then various pro-Russian institutions have been exerting influence on different segments of Serbian society and in Serbian political circles. Jaksic points to the Russian Institute for Strategic Studies that has been promoting so-called social diplomacy and fomenting Serbian nationalism hand in hand with a love of Russia.

"More important still is the promotion of the Russian political model," Jaksic says. "This is the real concern, not because of any anti-Russian sentiment, but rather the promotion of a political idea that is fundamentally opposed to Serbia's strategic interests, the values associated with modern liberal democracy embodied by the EU."

It should also be pointed out that most foreign investment in Serbia comes from EU countries (82 percent) and almost two-thirds of Serbian exports are likewise destined for the EU.

Whether as an orchestra playing in unison or a collection of more or less disparate groups and individuals, the effect of Russian propaganda and influence is being felt in Serbian public life.



In early August, the Office for EU Integration announced the results of its regular survey, which showed that support for EU membership in Serbia has fallen below 50 percent for the first time.

Milic's study identified the University of Belgrade as the main hub of Russian propaganda, and Jaksic finds this most worrying.

"The [Orthodox] Church is undoubtedly the most powerful transmitter of Russian influence, but elements of the university [of Belgrade] are not far behind. That is both paradoxical and extremely concerning -- that members of the younger generations are being recruited by Russian-backed nationalists, and that Russia is being presented as some kind of alternative and salvation."

There has been an evolution in Russian aims and ambitions, according to Jaksic, from the short-term goal of using scare tactics to block Serbia's mooted NATO membership, to offering an alternative to the EU in the shape of a Eurasian federation, by presenting the EU as a failed project.

"The image of the EU being promoted is of a region that was once blessed with peace and prosperity, that has been shaken to the core by a succession of crises, by rampant nationalisms, by terrorism," Jaksic says. "Such arguments are endlessly repeated to recruit an entire generation of young Serbs who were already losing faith in European integration for other reasons."

The success of Russian-promoted narratives and the spread of Russian influence has clearly emboldened the Kremlin to expand its official presence in Serbia. This is suggested by recent efforts to secure diplomatic status for the staff of the Russian humanitarian center in the city of Nis. This is a travesty, according to Jaksic.

"I have already promised that if the Russian humanitarian workers are granted diplomatic status I will demand diplomatic passports for all Serbian firemen."

While a recent visit by Western officials concluded that the Nis humanitarian center was not currently being used as a base for covert military-intelligence operations, the fear remains that it could be put to other uses.

"While president Vucic appears to be against it (the granting of diplomatic immunity to Russian aid workers) -- in fact last October's visit by [Russian Prime Minister Dmitry] Medvedev was apparently cancelled because the agreement over the humanitarian center fell through -- there are plenty of those in Belgrade who support this and similar moves to appease Moscow," adds Jaksic.

The Nis humanitarian center is only the latest manifestation of Moscow's bullishness in its approach to Serbia, an attitude seemingly vindicated by the shifting of public opinion in its favor and the success of Russian propaganda, especially among university students and the young. However, it also exposes Serbia's real and growing dilemma, caught as it is between what Jaksic describes as its real economic and strategic interests -- European integration -- and the siren song played by Putin's increasingly raucous orchestra in Belgrade.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL
Pressure increased against plans by Kurdish leaders in northern Iraq to hold an independence referendum, with the United Nations chief and Iranian leaders adding their voices to opponents of the vote.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on September 17 warned that the planned September 25 referendum "would detract from the need to defeat" the Islamic State (IS) militant group and to rebuild cities captured from the extremists.

"The secretary-general respects the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of Iraq and considers that all outstanding issues between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government should be resolved through structured dialogue and constructive compromise," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

"The secretary-general calls upon the leaders across Iraq to approach this matter with patience and restraint," he said.

Lawmakers in Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region and some surrounding areas have approved a plan to hold the nonbinding independence referendum in defiance of the central authorities in Baghdad.

Neighboring countries, including Turkey and Iran, with large Kurdish minorities, have also vehemently opposed the referendum, and Western countries have expressed concerns the vote could ignite fresh tensions in the region.

Iran on September 17 warned that should Iraq's Kurdistan region gain its independence, it would mean an end to all border and security arrangements agreed previously between Tehran and the regional government.

"Border agreements stand only with the central government of Iraq, and secession of Kurdistan region from the central government of Iraq would mean the blocking of all shared border crossings," Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said in an interview with state broadcaster IRIB.

"The secession of the Kurdistan region from Iraq's territory would be the end of security and military agreements between Iran and the Kurdistan region," he added.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi this week at the UN to discuss their concerns about the referendum.

Our goal is not dividing Iraq," Erdogan told reporters on September 17 before leaving for New York.

Abadi on September 16 said Kurdish leaders planning to hold the vote are "playing with fire" and said Baghdad was ready to intervene with force if violence erupts as a result of the referendum.

On September 17, Iraqi Vice President Nuri al-Maliki, a former prime minister, warned "backers of the referendum against the dangerous repercussions this measure will have on Iraq's sovereignty and unity."

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, dpa, and AP
An Iranian teenager sneaks up behind a cleric in the capital, Tehran, and knocks his turban off his head before dashing off.

The incident, uploaded on social media, is part of a new tactic employed by anti-government demonstrators in Iran.

Nationwide antiestablishment protests have raged across the Islamic republic since the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died on September 16 shortly after she was arrested for allegedly violating the hijab law on women's dress.

As the authorities have waged a deadly crackdown on the rallies, some demonstrators have turned to new tactics to sustain the monthslong protests, including tipping off Islamic clerics' turbans in the streets.

Many Iranians associate members of the clergy with Iran's Islamist regime, which many blame for the repression and corruption in the country.

While some Iranians have praised the "turban throwing" as an act of resistance, others have expressed concern that low-level clerics who are not affiliated with the state could become the victims of harassment and violence.

Lawmaker Mohammad Taghi Naqd Ali on November 10 called the new trend "the devil's conspiracy" and warned that young protesters tossing clerics' turbans were "playing with the lion's tail."

State media reported the arrests of two people in recent days who were accused of knocking off clerics' turbans.

London-based human rights lawyer Shadi Sadr said the tactic was a "brave and revolutionary act." Sadr, the co-founder of the rights group Justice for Iran, told RFE/RL that protesters were "humiliating" clerics without resorting to violence. "They're [targeting] the clergy's turban as a symbol of the crimes and corruption of the past 43 years as well as the privileges clerics have enjoyed," she said.

"There is no violence in it, and it also includes youthful mischief, which highlights the spirit of the revolution," Sadr added, referring to the monthslong protests that have posed the biggest threat to the establishment in years.

But Ahmad Zeidabadi, a Tehran-based journalist and former political prisoner, said that some of the clerics targeted in the streets "may be critics or even victims of [state] policies."

"This phenomenon...mainly targets clerics who do not hold any government positions," he said on Twitter, adding that senior clerics in powerful positions rarely appear in public and are often protected by security guards if they do.

Reformist cleric Hojatoleslam Ahmad Heidari, who was jailed in the past for his support for the opposition Green Movement, warned that the new trend could taint the "beautiful face of [the] protest movement against oppression and injustice."

"You're right to be angry at those wearing turbans," Heidari wrote on the news site Esafnews.com. But he added that "those who have a hand in power and are your target" are out of reach. He said many of the clerics targeted were "young and elderly" clerics who are not sitting in "ivory towers."

Attacks on clerics, particularly those who attempt to enforce Islamic codes in public, had been on rise in Iran even before the protests erupted, forcing many clerics to appear in public without their robes and turbans.

Last week, a cleric was reportedly hospitalized after being wounded in Karaj, near Tehran, amid antiestablishment protests in the city. The hard-line Fars news agency claimed that protesters attacked the cleric with knives.

Hassan Fereshtian, a Paris-based Iranian cleric and researcher, said the turban-throwing trend was the result of the "suppressed anger of the past four decades."

"If it aims at eliminating the clergy, we could be facing the start of violence," he warned in comments to RFE/RL's Radio Farda. "In fact, the clergy should be eliminated from the centers of power. But they shouldn't be eliminated from society."

Fereshtian, a student of the late dissident Grand Ayatollah Hossein-Ali Montazeri, expressed hope that Iran will reach a point "where secular people can live peacefully next to the clergy and unveiled women next to those who choose to wear the hijab."

In the past year, regime supporters have knocked off the turbans of clerics who had criticized the establishment, including former Interior Minister Abdollah Nuri and former parliament speaker Mehdi Karrubi, who has been under house arrest since 2011 for disputing the 2009 reelection of former President Mahmud Ahmadinejad.
Iraqs Supreme Court has ordered the suspension of an independence referendum in the semiautonomous region of Kurdistan scheduled for next week.

The Supreme Court in Baghdad said in a September 18 statement that it has "issued a national order to suspend the referendum procedures...until the resolution of the cases regarding the constitutionality of said decision."

It is not clear if Kurdish leaders in northern Iraq would abide by the court's ruling.

Baghdad has repeatedly condemned the referendum as unconstitutional.

The United States and the United Nations have called on the Iraqi Kurdistan region to hold off the vote amid concerns that it could contribute to instability as Iraqi forces fight the extremist group Islamic State (IS).

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on September 17 warned that the planned September 25 referendum "would detract from the need to defeat" IS and to rebuild cities captured from the extremists.

Countries in the region, including Iran and Turkey, have also have also vehemently opposed the referendum amid fears that it could encourage their Kurdish minorities to break away.

Iran on September 17 warned that should Iraq's Kurdistan region gain its independence, it would mean an end to all border and security arrangements agreed previously between Tehran and the regional government.

Turkey on September 18 launched a military drill with tanks close to the Iraqi border, the army said.

Ankara's national security council will meet on September 22 to discuss the country's official position on the referendum.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said over the weekend that it was a "mistake."

Based on reporting by AP and dpa
BISHKEK -- Kyrgyz Prime Minister Sapar Isakov says his government has canceled an agreement with a Czech company to construct parts of Upper Naryn Cascade hydropower project and several other hydropower plants.

Speaking at a government session on September 18, Isakov said that he had given orders to his cabinet to cancel the agreement with Liglass Trading Company and prepare a new tender.

In July, the Kyrgyz presidents website said that Liglass Trading of the Czech Republic had been chosen to implement the ambitious hydropower project.

Several days later, Czech and Kyrgyz media reports expressed doubts about Liglass's financial turnover and capabilities.

Kyrgyz officials said they failed to find any official data proving the company's successful achievements on any international construction projects.

The chairman of Kyrgyzstans State Committee for Industry, Energy, and Exploration, Duishenbek Zilaliev, said on July 17 that Liglass has 50 days to start fulfilling its financial obligations or the deal with the Czech company will be scrapped.

Under the deal, Liglass was required to pay $37 million to Russia by September 19, effectively buying out RusHydros shares in the Upper Naryn Cascade project.

Liglass General Director Michael Smelik told journalists in Bishkek on September 18 that his company is unable to pay the amount to Russia on time.
NOVOCHEBOKSARSK, Russia -- A volunteer for Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny's embattled presidential campaign has been convicted under extremism legislation and sentenced to 27 months in a penitentiary.

In a September 18 verdict, a court in the Chuvasia region city of Novocheboksarsk found Aleksei Mironov guilty of calling for extremism and inciting hatred via the Internet.

It sentenced him to two years and three months in a colony settlement, a penitentiary in which convicts live close to an industrial facility or farm where they work.

Mironov, 26, said that the sentence was unexpected and he had "no words" to describe how he felt.

The activist is one of many Navalny staffers or supporters to face prosecution as the anticorruption crusader mounts an effort to run in Russia's March 2018 presidential election.

The charges against Mironov stemmed from two 2016 posts, one depicting President Vladimir Putin with a swastika and one containing what authorities said was a slur against an ethnic group.

Defense lawyer Yury Ivanov said the verdict will be appealed.

Navalny is an outspoken critic of Putin, who has held power as prime minister or president since 1999 and expected to seek and secure a new six-year Kremlin term in the election.

Navalny, who announced plans to run in December 2016, has opened more than 60 campaign offices across Russia and held several campaign rallies, including gatherings in Siberia that drew thousands of people in the past few days.

In June, however, the Central Election Commission said that Navalny was ineligible to run for public office because of a financial-crimes conviction that he contests was politically motivated.
The wife of ousted Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has won a parliament seat in a closely watched by-election caused when Sharif stepped down in July, unofficial results suggest.

Kulsoom Nawaz won 61,254 votes in the election in Lahore, 14,188 more than her nearest rival, local media reported on September 18.

The unofficial results from the September 17 vote were compiled by officers at polling stations and handed to officials from political parties. Election authorities will announce the final and official results later.

The contested National Assembly seat in Lahore has long been controlled by Sharif and his allies.

It was left vacant when the Supreme Court barred Sharif from office after an inquiry into the 2016 Panama Papers linked his family to offshore companies. Sharif denies any wrongdoing.

Nawaz is currently in London for cancer treatment. In her absence, her daughter Maryam Nawaz led the campaign for the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

Maryam Nawaz told supporters that the election victory proved people's love for Sharif and rejected his disqualification.

"Today, people have given their verdict over the [Supreme Court] verdict," she told the crowd.

Kulsoom Nawazs nearest rival, Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opposition party's candidate Yasmin Rashid, won 47,066 votes in the election, according to local media. She conceded defeat while talking to supporters.

In August, the PML-N elected one of Sharif's loyalists, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, as prime minister.

Some party officials have suggested Kulsoom Nawaz could become prime minister once elected to parliament.

Nawaz, who has been married to Sharif for more than 40 years, does not hold political office but is a high-profile figure in Pakistan.

With reporting by AP, dpa, the BBC, Dawn, and RFE/RLs Radio Mashaal
Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 18 attended a joint military exercise with Belarus near NATOs eastern flank that has fanned already deep tensions between Moscow and the West.

Putin took in the Zapad (West) 2017 exercise, scheduled from September 14 to 20 in Belarus and parts of western Russia, at the Luzhsky range about 100 kilometers east of the Estonian border.

Russia also test-fired a state-of-the-art cruise missile at a mock target in Kazakhstan as part of the exercises, in a show of the weapons long range and accuracy.

The war games are officially set to involve 12,700 troops, but Western officials have said the maneuvers could include some 100,000 personnel in what they call a Russian show of power amid the ongoing standoff with the West over Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite was among those who voiced alarm about Zapad 2017, saying the military exercises are a sign that Russia is preparing for a serious conflict with NATO.

"We are anxious about this drill...it is an open preparation for war with the West," she told reporters.

Poland's National Security Bureau head, Pawel Soloch, told private Radio Zet that the exercises are a demonstration "of the Russian state's capacity to hold full-scale war action."

Russia, meanwhile, has pushed back against what it portrays as Western alarmism over the drills, the first to be held in close proximity to NATO member states since Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in 2014.

Moscow insists that the size of the exercises will not cross the 13,000-troop threshold that, under Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) rules known as the Vienna Document, would require it to notify other nations and open the maneuvers to observers.

NATO is closely watching the exercises and says they are larger than the 12,700 servicemen Moscow has publicized, actually numbering some 100,000 troops, and involve firing nuclear-capable ballistic missiles.

The chief of Russia's general staff, General Valery Gerasimov, sought to reassure his NATO counterpart late on September 14 that the exercise is purely defensive, Russian news agencies reported.

In a phone call, Gerasimov informed NATO Supreme Allied Commander in Europe Curtis Scaparrotti that the war games had officially begun and are "exclusively defensive in nature" and "not targeted against any third parties," Russian media quoted the Russian Defense Ministry as saying.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier accused the West of "whipping up hysteria" over its military exercises.

"We reject complaints of these exercises not being transparent," Peskov told a conference call with reporters. "We believe that whipping up hysteria around these exercises is a provocation."

Colonel General Andrei Kartapolov, commander of Russias Western Military District, said in an interview published by the Russian militarys official Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper on September 13 that the number of troops and hardware used in the drills will fully comply with the Vienna Document.

The Zapad exercise is held every four years in rotation with drills in other parts of Russia.

Western governments have responded to Russias 2014 seizure of Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine with several waves of economic and other sanctions targeting Moscow.

NATO has also bolstered its presence in its easternmost member states that were dominated by Moscow during the Cold War and remain concerned about the Kremlins intentions in the region.

Belarus, where part of the Zapad 2017 exercise is being held, borders Ukraine as well as NATO members Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. The drills are also being staged in Russias western exclave of Kaliningrad, which lies between Poland and Lithuania on the Baltic Sea.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in Estonia last week that the military alliance would send three observers.

But these invitations fall short from the transparency required by the OSCE: briefings on the exercise scenario and progress, opportunities to talk to individual soldiers and overflights of the exercise, Stoltenberg told reporters on September 6 during his visit to a NATO contingent in Tapa, Estonia.

"We will monitor the [Zapad 2017] activity closely, and we are vigilant but also calm, because we don't see any imminent threat against any NATO ally," Stoltenberg added.

In an interview with Reuters in Berlin, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko's foreign policy adviser Kostiantyn Yeliseyev said on September 14 that Zapad 2017 is very dangerous since they are taking place just near the border with Ukraine.

Yeliseyev added that the exercises purpose is to destabilize the military situation close to the border with NATO member states and to keep as long as possible Russian military troops and weaponry near the [Ukrainian] border and then to use them as a platform for a possible future offensive operation.

Russia, which has repeatedly accused NATO of stoking regional tensions through enlargement after the fall of the Iron Curtain and deployments in Eastern Europe in the aftermath of the Ukraine crisis, has called Western concerns about the Zapad drills baseless, saying the exercise is "purely defensive."

Fictitious Enemy

Kartapolov told Krasnaya Zvezda that in addition to the stated 12,700 troops -- around 7,200 from Russia and 5,500 from Belarus -- Zapad 2017 includes about 70 aircraft and up to 680 pieces of military hardware, including tanks, artillery units, and ships.

During the drills, the joint Russian-Belarus operations are targeting a theoretical adversary attempting to undermine the government in Minsk and establish a separatist stronghold in western Belarus.

This scenario echoes Russian concerns over what Moscow calls Western-orchestrated political revolutions in its backyard, most notably in Georgia in 2003 and in Ukraine, where President Viktor Yanukovych, a Kremlin ally, was ousted in early 2014.

The United States and the European Union have repeatedly rejected such allegations, calling those events the result of grassroots anger against corrupt regimes in the former Soviet republics.

With reporting by TASS, AP, and The Guardian
U.S.-led military drills continue near the western Ukrainian city of Yavoriv. More than 1,800 troops from 14 countries are taking part in the Rapid Trident exercises, held each year since 1996. The two weeks of war games, which run until September 23, are designed to test and build Ukraine's interoperability with NATO allies and partners. It comes as Russia and Belarus hold joint military exercises, Zapad (West) 2017, involving about 13,000 troops. (U.S. Army video)
Russian authorities said a rash of anonymous bomb threats that have prompted the evacuation of schools, shopping malls, train stations, and other buildings continued on September 18.

Moscow authorities said that some 600 people were evacuated from eight administrative buildings in the capital and that one private company was also evacuated.

In the capital of the Udmurtia region, Izhevsk, authorities evacuated people from two shopping malls and a hotel after receiving a phoned-in bomb threat.

In Cheboksary, capital of the Chuvashia region, a total of 12 buildings, including shopping malls, hotels, and a courthouse, were evacuated.

Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from schools, malls, theaters, universities, hotels, and government buildings in cities across Russia following anonymous bomb threats that began on September 10.

Bombs have not been discovered in any of the cases.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on September 14 that the threats are "telephone terrorism" and that "all necessary measures are being taken" to find the perpetrators.

With reporting by TASS and Interfax
A group of Chinese warships has arrived in Russia's Far Eastern city of Vladivostok to participate in the second round of joint naval exercises.

Russian Pacific Fleet spokesman Vladimir Matveyev said that the Naval Interaction 2017 drills will consist of a shoreline phase in Vladivostok, where the fleet is headquartered, from September 18-21.

The maneuvers will also include an at-sea phase from September 22-26 that will unfold in the Sea of Japan and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk.

Matveyev said the drills will involve a total of 11 surface ships, two submarines, two deep-sea rescue vehicles, four antisubmarine aircraft, and four deck-based helicopters.

The first part of Naval Interaction 2017 was conducted in the Baltic Sea in July.

Russia and China frequently present a united front in the face of that they say are U.S. efforts to dominate the world.

They are the leading members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a Eurasian military, political, and economic bloc formed in 2001.

The two neighboring countries have been holding joint military exercises for more than a decade and conducted their first joint naval drills in 2012.

In the past three years, Moscow has stepped up its pursuit of stronger relations with Beijing as it faces off with the West over Russias aggression in Ukraine.

The latest exercises are taking place not far from North Korea amid continuing tensions over the isolated state's nuclear ambitions. Both Moscow and Beijing have repeatedly called for a peaceful solution and talks to resolve the issue.

The maneuvers also come as Russian President Vladimir Putin was due to attend large-scale joint military exercises with Belarus that have alarmed neighboring states.

Moscow and Minsk say the Zapad 2017 maneuvers in Belarus and parts of western Russia involve 12,700 troops.

However, NATO expects the actual number could be up to 100,000 in what Western officials call a Russian show of power amid the ongoing standoff over Moscows seizure of Ukraines Crimea region in 2014 and its backing of separatists in the countrys east.

With reporting by Reuters, TASS, and Interfax
Two Russian women have been convicted of plotting a terrorist attack on a shopping mall in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and sentenced to long prison terms.

In a September 18 ruling, the North Caucasus Regional Military Court in Rostov sentenced Tatyana Karpenko to 14 1/2 years and Natalya Grishina to nine years, both in maximum-security prison.

In additional to plotting a terrorist attack, Karpenko was found guilty of recruiting a person for that purpose and illegally purchasing explosive substances, while Grishina was also found guilty of illegal possession of explosive substances.

Both women pleaded not guilty at their trial, which began in June.

Investigators claim that Karpenko and Grishina share the views of the extremist group Islamic State (IS) and the Caucasus Emirate, a militant Islamist organization carrying out an insurgency in the heavily Muslim North Caucasus region south of Rostov.

Prosecutors accused them of planning the attack from October 2015 to February 2016 and recruiting another woman, Viktoria Semyonova, as a suicide bomber. They said the plot was uncovered before the attack could take place.

Semyonova was tried separately and sentenced to three years in prison.

All three women have Slavic backgrounds, indicating that if they are Muslims they may have converted.

Based on reporting by Rapsinews, Interfax, and TASS
A Russian court has delayed hearings in a lawsuit filed by German conglomerate Siemens against a Russian state firm over the transfer of power turbines to Ukraine's Russian-occupied Crimea region.

A preliminary hearing had been scheduled for September 18, but the Moscow Arbitration Court rescheduled it for October 16, according to the courts documents.

AFP news agency reported that the decision to postpone the hearings was made at the request of the defendant, Technopromexport, a subsidiary of state conglomerate Rostec.

Siemens lodged the suit against Technopromexport in July, after it emerged that four power turbines it sent to a power plant in Russia ended up in Crimea.

The transfer of the equipment to Crimea contravened European Union sanctions imposed after Moscow occupied and took control of the Black Sea peninsula in 2014.

Last month, the Moscow Arbitration Court rejected a request by Siemens to seize the gas turbines and to ban their installation ahead of preliminary hearings.

The turbines, manufactured in Russia by a joint project involving Siemens, were sold to Technopromexport in 2015.

Siemens says the equipment was to be installed at a plant in Taman, in southern Russia, and that the Russian company breached contract conditions by sending them to Crimea. It is seeking the return of equipment to its original point of destination.

Russian Deputy Energy Minister Andrei Cherezov told state-run news agency TASS earlier this month that the turbines were delivered to Crimea legally and will be put into operation according to an existing schedule, despite the lawsuit.

Moscow needs the turbines for two Crimean power plants in order to ensure a stable power supply for the peninsulas residents.

Crimea used to rely on the Ukrainian power grid but is now dependent on Russian electricity.

Crimea has been subjected to EU sanctions on energy technology since Russian military forces seized control of the Ukrainian region in March 2014 and the Kremlin staged a referendum that has been deemed as illegitimate by most countries in the world.

Last month, the EU widened sanctions against Russian companies and persons, including Technopromeksport and Cherezov, over the transfer of the turbines to Crimea.

The Russian Foreign Ministry called the decision an "unfriendly and unjustified" step.

With reporting by AFP, RAPSI, and TASS
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov have met in New York ahead of the opening of the United Nations General Assembly, with Ukraine and Syria key topics of discussion, officials said.

The U.S. State Department earlier had said that Tillerson would travel to the Russian UN mission to meet with his counterpart on September 17.

Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert after the session said in a statement that the diplomats "met this evening in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly."

"The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward," she said.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the meeting covered the crisis in Syria, the conflict in eastern Ukraine, and "Middle East" issues.



Tillerson left the talks without speaking to reporters.

The meeting came at what Tillerson has called a "historic" low in post-Cold War relations between Russia and the United States, marred by tit-for-tat reductions to each country's diplomatic missions.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Moscow for what U.S. intelligence agencies say was widespread Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Sanctions are also in place against Russia for its activities in Ukraine, including the annexation of the Crimean Peninsula and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

The conflict in eastern Ukraine between Kyiv's forces and Russia-backed separatists has killed more than 10,000 people since it erupted in April 2014.

Recent discussions have centered on the possibility of sending UN peacekeepers to eastern Ukraine, although the United States and Kyiv have said they do not want the deployment to cement a division of the country.

Washington and Moscow are at loggerheads as well in Syria, where Russia supports President Bashar al-Assad while the United States backs rebels fighting the government.

The U.S.-led coalition battling Islamic State (IS) militants in the war-torn country said the Russian military on September 16 struck forces backed by Washington, injuring several allied fighters. Russia denied the allegations.

UN-sponsored talks are being held in Geneva in search of a political solution to end the Syrian civil war. Separate talks are being conducted in the Kazakh capital, Astana -- sponsored by Russia, Iran, and Turkey -- to deal with cease-fire and other battlefield matters.

It was not immediately reported if the discussions involved the crisis over North Korea's continued defiance of UN resolutions against its testing of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Russia and China have pushed back against U.S. demands for the two to take "direct action" against Pyongyang.

Lavrov is expected on September 21 to speak in front of the General Assembly, which runs through September 25.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the General Assembly. U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak before the 193-member UN on September 19.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and TASS


A Moscow court threw out a lawsuit against Russias main security agency filed by relatives of Raoul Wallenberg, seeking documents related to the Swedish diplomat's final years before his death in a Soviet prison.

Wallenbergs niece and other relatives had sought to force the Federal Security Service, the main successor to the KGB, to provide uncensored documentation that could shed light on Wallenbergs fate, one of many enduring mysteries of the Cold War period.

But the Meshchansky District Court rejected the effort on September 18, saying the documents being sought contained personal information about other individuals and therefore could not be released.

Ivan Pavlov, a lawyer for Wallenberg's niece, Marie Dupuy, said in a posting to Facebook that the FSB had also argued the agency was not technically the successor to the NKVD, the Soviet security agency in existence in 1945. The KGB formally came into existence in 1954 after Stalins death.

Wallenberg saved thousands of Hungarian Jews during World War II but was captured by Soviet forces in 1945.

Moscow said later that the 35-year-old had died in 1947 of a heart attack while at a prison at the notorious Lubyanka headquarters in Moscow but Wallenbergs family, Swedish officials, and others have disputed that.

In July, Dupuy said she had asked lawyers to file a lawsuit as "numerous requests to Russian authorities over many years, publicly and privately, by myself, by expert historians, and Swedish officials, have failed to yield any results."

She claimed Russian archives contained documents with direct relevance related to Wallenberg's fate.
A Russian prosecutor in Crimea has recommended a suspended sentence for Mykola Semena, an RFE/RL contributor who is fighting what he says is a politically motivated separatism charge in court on the Russian-occupied Ukrainian peninsula.

At a September 18 hearing in Semena's trial, the prosecutor asked the court to find him guilty and hand him a three-year suspended sentence, meaning he would not be imprisoned unless he were to violate the terms of the verdict.

The prosecutor also recommended that Semena, 66, be barred from "public activities" -- apparently including journalism -- for the same three-year period.

The charge against Semena stems from an article he wrote for RFE/RL's Krym.Realii (Crimea Realities) website in 2015, a year after Russia seized control of Crimea from Ukraine.

The Kremlin-installed prosecutor in Crimea charged that the article had called for the violation of Russias territorial integrity.

Given the floor for his final statement before the verdict, which is expected on September 22, Semena repeated his contention that he is innocent.

He said that both Ukrainian and Russian law give him the right to express his opinions freely, and that all arguments he has made in his writing have been based on national and international law.

"I think this is exactly what any good and law-abiding citizen of any state, including Ukraine or Russia, should always do," Semena told the court.

"And the state not only has no legal right to try him for that, it has no moral right to punish him for that, especially if the state -- through its constitution -- has guaranteed freedom of expression and freedom of thought," he said. "Otherwise the state is doomed."



Semena also said that public discussion of all issues, including whether or not any particular region is legally part of Russia, is protected by the freedom of expression.

Russia seized control of Crimea in March 2014 by sending troops to the Black Sea peninsula and staging a referendum deemed illegitimate by at least 100 countries.

Rights activists say Russia has used trumped-up, politically motivated charges to prosecute dozens of Crimeans who opposed the takeover.

"My opinion about Crimea coincides with the opinion of the majority in the world, of international organizations, and of the governments of the majority of the countries," Semena told the court, adding that he believes Russia's position "is not based on the law."

"If I am pronounced guilty it will be a verdict not only for me, a Ukrainian journalist, but a verdict against journalism as a whole in Russia," he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron in talks with his U.S. and Iranian counterparts has raised the possibility of renegotiating provisions of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal after their scheduled expiration in 2025, French officials said.

The possibility was raised in separate one-on-one meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rohani on September 18 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the officials said.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Macron sought to persuade Trump not to abandon the deal, as Trump has threatened to do repeatedly, because that risks triggering a renewed arms race to develop nuclear weapons in the Middle East.

France is one of six world powers that are parties to the deal, which restricted Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. The United States, Russia, China, Germany, and Britain are the other parties.

To encourage Trump to stick with the deal, Le Drian said Macron expressed his willingness to return to negotiations over provisions that expire in 2025, such as its limits on Iran's uranium enrichment activities, pinpointing a grievance which is often cited by Israel and other opponents as their reason for rejecting the deal.

"It is essential to maintain [the deal] to avoid proliferation. In this period when we see the risks with North Korea, we must maintain this line," Le Drian told reporters at the UN in New York.

"France will try to convince President Trump of the pertinence of this choice, even if work can be done to complement the accord after 2025," he said.

Reuters quoted a senior French official as saying that Macron also raised the possibility of renegotiating expiring provisions after 2025 in his meeting with Rohani on September 18.

The official told Reuters that Macron also warned Rohani that Tehran should stop provoking the United States with its activities in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.

"We feel the post-2025 subject is a red line, but our president put it on the table because it's a concern and a legitimate request that we must make," the official told Reuters.

"2025 will arrive quickly and we have to be ready before January 1, 2025, so he asked that we think together how to work on this question."

The U.S. State Department confirmed that Trump and Macron discussed the Iran deal but did not say they discussed any renegotiation of sunsetted provisions.

Brian Hook, director of policy planning at the U.S. State Department, said Trump told Macron about the problems he sees with what he called a "deeply flawed" deal, and said he is still considering abandoning it in a decision expected next month.

"The president was very candid with him about what he thinks are the shortcomings... He told [Macron] that it is under review and that they are taking a hard look at the October 15th decision and more broadly how to fix the Iran deal," Hook said.

Hook said the French and American presidents also discussed an integrated strategy against Iran that would take into account what he described as Iran's support for terrorism, its ballistic missile program, its destabilization in the Middle East, and other aggressions.

In a separate meeting with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump also discussed what Hook described as Iran's "malign activities" in the Middle East, and discussed the need to prevent Iran from establishing any deep roots or organizing in Syria, he said.

Rohani in an interview with CNN on September 18 repeated Iran's warning that the United States would pay a heavy price if Trump makes good on his threats to scrap the deal.

"Exiting such an agreement would carry a high cost for the United States of America, and I do not believe Americans would be willing to pay such a high cost for something that will be useless for them, Rohani said.

Trump earlier in the day had suggested that the United States will walk away from the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers if it deems that the UNs atomic agency is not tough enough in monitoring it.

"We will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal," Trump said in a message to an annual meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna that was read by U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry.

"The United States...strongly encourages the IAEA to exercise its full authorities to verify Iran's adherence to each and every nuclear-related commitment under the nuclear agreement," he added.

U.S. and UN watchdogs monitoring compliance have found Iran has adhered to the accord.

However, the Trump administration has frequently charged that Tehran breaks the "spirit" of the deal, including by continuing to test-launch ballistic missiles and rockets capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

It has also lobbied for tougher nuclear inspections in Iran, including at military sites.

But the head of Irans Atomic Energy Organization, Ali Akbar Salehi, called on the IAEA, which is monitoring the nuclear accord, to resist what he called Washington's "unacceptable demands."

Asserting that Iran is fully complying with terms of the accord, Salehi told the Vienna meeting that Washingtons overtly hostile attitude and actual foot-dragging policies and measures" are "aimed at undermining the nuclear deal."

IAEA Director-General Yukiya Amano, who was approved for another four-year term in office on September 18, said that the commitments undertaken by Iran under the nuclear deal are being implemented.

Iran is now subject to the world's most robust nuclear verification regime," he claimed.

With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, dpa and CNN


Russia and China late on September 18 declined to join 128 other nations in signing U.S. President Donald Trump declaration of support for reforms to make the United Nations more effective in addressing global crises.

Russian officials said that while they support the idea of streamlining the UN bureaucracy, they believe any changes in the international body should be negotiated by members states rather than imposed through a declaration drafted solely by the United States.

"We all support increasing the UN's role in the international arena," but the UN does not need major reform, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya told Russia's TASS state news agency.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov told TASS and Interfax that Moscow believes reform should be "comprehensive" but any reforms should be agreed through "dialogue."

He said the UN should keep "intact those programs that are working efficiently but rather focus on either those that are obsolete or those whose mandate needs to be optimized."

"From this point of view, we are ready to take part in this process," Gatilov said.

Trump had asked UN member states to sign onto his 10-point declaration on UN reform before inviting them to participate in a special meeting on reform he hosted earlier in the day.

Speaking to the gathering at the UN headquarters in New York, Trump said the world body is failing to live up to its potential and urged it to take a bold stand with a more clearly defined global mission.

"Focus more on people, less on bureaucracy," he said. The UN "has not reached its potential because of the bureaucracy and mismanagement."

Trump, a frequent critic of the UN, was frank in laying out his views on how to improve the world body a day before he makes his first address to the 193-member General Assembly, which holds its annual General Debate session from September 19 to 25.

Trump in his address "will urge all states to come together to address grave dangers that threaten us all," such as the North Korean nuclear and missile crisis, National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster said on September 18.

Trump will stress that "if nations meet these challenges, immense opportunity lies before us," McMaster said.

About 130 world leaders will attend this year's General Assemblys debate session.

On the reform issue, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres responded to Trumps message on September 18 by saying he agreed that bureaucracy was an issue that kept him awake at night.

"Someone out to undermine the UN could not have come up with a better way to do it than by imposing some of the rules we have created ourselves," he said.

Part of Trumps disapproval stems from the cost of the UN to American taxpayers.

Washington, the biggest UN financial contributor, has threatened deep funding cuts that Guterres has said would create an "unsolvable problem" for the organization.

In June, the General Assembly voted to cut $600 million from the organization's nearly $8 billion annual peacekeeping budget amid pressure from the Trump administration.

Trump reiterated his concerns on September 18, saying that the United States was not seeing results in line with U.S. investment.

"The United Nations must hold every level of management accountable, protect whistleblowers. and focus on results rather than on process," Trump said.

"I am confident that if we work together and champion truly bold reforms the United Nations will emerge as a stronger, more effective, more just, and greater force for peace and harmony in the world," he added.

With reporting by AFP, dpa, Reuters, Interfax, and TASS


President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has hailed Ukraine's recapture of Kherson during a surprise visit to the strategic southern city as the possible "beginning of the end of the war," but warned that such victories came at a high price.

The liberation of Kherson over the last few days was one of Ukraine's biggest successes in nearly nine months since the start of the Russian invasion and sparked days of celebration but also exposed a humanitarian emergency for the residents of the city.

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.

"This is the beginning of the end of the war," Zelenskiy said in an address to the Ukrainian troops in the city. "We are step-by-step coming to all the temporarily occupied territories."

But he also reminded Ukrainians that the success came at a high human cost.

"The price of this war is high. People are injured. A large number of dead. (Russian forces) have left or escaped -- we believe that they have escaped because our army has surrounded the enemy and they were in danger," Zelensky said.

"There were fierce battles, and the result is -- today we are in Kherson region."

"We are moving forward," Zelenskiy told Ukrainian soldiers in the city, thanking NATO and other allies for their continuing support in the war against Russia.

"We are ready for peace, peace for all our country," he said.

As fierce fighting continues in eastern and southern Ukraine, the Kremlin refused to comment on Zelenskiy's visit to the city, but spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "You know that it is the territory of the Russian Federation."

Russia, which still controls about 70 percent of the wider Kherson region, illegally annexed it and three other Ukrainian regions in September following referendums that Kyiv and the West have labeled as a sham.

Wary Ukrainian officials maintained a curfew in the liberated Kherson region amid fears that mines and booby traps could still maim and kill civilians.

The governor of Kherson region, Yaroslav Yanushevych, said the authorities had decided to maintain a curfew from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. and ban people from leaving or entering the city as a security measure.

"The enemy mined all critical infrastructure," Yanushevych told Ukrainian TV. "We are trying to meet within a few days and (then) open the city," he said.

Zelenskiy's visit to the region came a day after fresh evidence of war crimes was being uncovered in Kherson following the departure of Russian troops.

Zelenskiy said Ukrainian investigators uncovered hundreds of war crimes in areas freed from Russian occupation.

"Investigators have already documented more than 400 Russian war crimes," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address on November 13. "The bodies of dead civilians and servicemen have been found."

"The Russian Army left behind the same savagery it did in other regions of the country it entered," he said.

The allegations could not be independently verified. Russia denies its troops intentionally target civilians.

Zelenskiy said "stabilization and the restoration of law" has been established in 226 settlements in the region, while the Defense Ministry said it had recaptured 179 settlements and 4,500 square kilometers along the Dnieper River over the past week.

The Ukrainian military's General Staff reported continued fierce fighting along the eastern front in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

The Ukrainian armed forces' southern command said on November 14 that Russian forces continued to "inflict fire damage on our troops and de-occupied settlements along the right bank of the Dnieper" even after the liberation of Kherson city, which Zelenskiy described as "a historic day."

Yanushevych warned people in an online message about reports of humanitarian aid arriving in downtown Kherson's Liberty Square and urged people to steer clear of the city center as demining operations were due to proceed there.

Zelenskiy also warned Kherson residents about the presence of Russian mines. "I am asking you please not to forget that the situation in the Kherson region remains very dangerous," he said.

Russian officials' announcement that their forces were withdrawing across the Dnieper, which bisects the Kherson region and Ukraine, followed a seemingly hugely successful Ukrainian counteroffensive in the country's south in recent months.

U.S. President Joe Biden hailed the retaking of Kherson as a "significant victory," raising confidence that Moscow will not occupy its neighbor as intended when it invaded in late February.

"I can do nothing but applaud the courage, determination, and capacity of the Ukrainian people," Biden told a press conference after meeting with Chinese President Xi Xinjping on November 14.

"I think you are going to see things slow down a bit because of the winter months...I think it remains to be seen exactly what the outcome will be."

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned on November 14 that Ukraine should brace for a difficult winter.

"The coming months will be difficult. Putin's aim is to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter," he told a press conference in The Hague after meeting the Dutch foreign and defense ministers.

Stoltenberg urged continued international support for Kyiv and said Russia's military capability should not be taken lightly.

"We should not make the mistake of underestimating Russia. They still control large parts of Ukraine. What we should do is strengthen Ukraine's hand."

With reporting by Reuters and AP
A group of Jackson County landowners are appealing the dismissal of their unusual legal effort to block a proposed frac sand operation.

In July, La Crosse County Circuit Judge Scott Horne dismissed the case brought by three families who sued to stop AllEnergy Sand of Des Moines from building the $130 million project in the town of Hixton on the grounds it would be a nuisance.

Greg Krueger and his co-plaintiffs claimed the 750-acre mine, processing plant and rail terminal would generate air, water, noise and light pollution, destroy the landscape, deplete groundwater supplies and unreasonably interfere with their right to peaceful enjoyment of their land.

One of two such cases filed on behalf of Jackson County residents, it is the first effort in Wisconsin to apply the idea of private nuisance  that landowners cant use their lands in a way that harms neighboring property owners  to the industry, which began rapidly expanding in western Wisconsin during the past decade to supply fine-grained sand for use in oil and gas wells.

In support of their case the plaintiffs filed affidavits of a dozen people living near existing sand mining operations who complained of dust that causes chronic coughs and prevents them from opening windows, light, noise and vibration that keeps them up at night, cracked walls and fouled well water  in spite of existing development agreements outlining terms of operations.

Acknowledging the case hinges on inherent tensions in land-use decisions, Horne said that while it possible the proposed mine will result in the feared harms, the plaintiffs failed to show the mine would cause substantial harm and that a local ordinance and developers agreement will be insufficient.

If an actual nuisance arises, Horne said, he would have the authority to order damages or a modification to the operating regulations.

Attorney Tim Jacobson notified the court this week that he intends to ask an appeals court to determine if Horne erred in his conclusion and in setting too high a bar for evidence at an early stage in the legal process.

The judge is not allowed to make credibility determinations at this stage, Jacobson said. Thats what a trial is for.

Meanwhile the attorney for AllEnergy is asking that the plaintiffs be required to post a $35 million bond while the case is pending appeal, which could take more than a year.

Dean Sukowatey, president and CEO of AllEnergy Sand, said that would cover the $10 million hes invested so far and $25 million in lost revenue. While there is no legal injunction stopping the project, Sukowatey said his investors will not move forward with the dark cloud of a pending court case.

Sukowatey accused the plaintiffs of attempting to run out the clock and said they are exposing themselves to damage counter-claims.

Thats a fight for another day, he said. Right now we just want to build a plant, and we cant build this plant with an overhang.

Horne has yet to rule whether a similar case can proceed in which another group of landowners are attempting to stop a 945-acre mine, processing and loading facility proposed by OmniTrax about six miles to the east between Black River Falls and Alma Center.

In light of his ruling in the AllEnergy case, Jacobson is in the process of filing additional affidavits by people alleging harm from neighboring sand mines. The OmniTrax facility would straddle a town line, though only one towns has a developers agreement with the company.

We believe that the facts in the OmniTrax case are substantially different than the AllEnergy case, he said. The citizens in the adjacent community had no local officials negotiating on their behalf.
The Turkish ground forces kicked off previously unannounced military exercises near the city of Silopi, situated near the country's border with Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan Region, on September 18. Tanks, missile carriers, and artillery were involved in the drills. The move by the Turkish Army comes ahead of a unilaterally declared Iraqi Kurdish referendum on independence set to be held on September 25. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has warned that Turkey will take any necessary steps in response. (Reuters, AFP)
A United Nations human rights group has called on Iran to immediately release two Iranian-Americans, Siamak Namazi and his 81-year-old father Baguer Namazi, describing their imprisonment as a violation of international law.

The two are serving 10-year prison sentences on spying charges.

The call came in an 11-page opinion by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention that has not been officially published.

But Namazis lawyer, Jared Genser, released the opinion on September 18 as Iranian President Hassan Rohani arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly in an attempt to pressure him.

Siamak Namazi, a Dubai-based businessman who advocated better ties between Iran and the United States, has been in Iranian custody since October 2015.

Baquer Namazi, a retired UNICEF official, was detained in February after traveling to Iran to seek his son's release.

They lost an appeal last month of their convictions for collaboration with a hostile government, namely the United States.

In their report, the UNWorking Group on Arbitrary Detention dismissed the cases against the Namazis, saying it is part of "an emerging pattern involving the arbitrary deprivation of liberty of dual nationals."

"There is no evidence either Mr. S. Namazi or Mr. B. Namazi had a criminal record, including in relation to national security offenses," the report said.

"There is nothing to indicate that they have ever acted against the national interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

"This decision explains in detail precisely why the detention of the Namazis is illegal and in violation of international law," Genser said in a statement.

"It is time for Iran to resolve these cases and allow the Namazis to be reunited with their family, he added.

Iranian officials have not publicly commented on the report.

Iran does not recognize dual nationality.

The Namazis are among a number of dual nationals held in Iran in what is believed to be a power struggle between the moderates and hard-liners who oppose any opening of the country following the 2015 nuclear deal with the international community on restricting Iran's nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions.

With reporting by AP, The Huffington Post, and The New York Times
Global leaders will gather at the United Nations on September 18 as the debate session of the world body's General Assembly officially begins.

Much of the attention will be on U.S. President Donald Trump, who will make his debut at the 193-member UN with a speech on September 19. French President Emmanuel Macron is also scheduled to make his first appearance as a national leader.

Among those not scheduled to attend are Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has only made rare visits to the UN, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Both are sending their foreign ministers.

The event will also mark the debut of the new UN chief, Antonio Guterres, the former Portuguese prime minister who will preside over the assembly's general debate, which runs through September 25.

The leaders will attempt to focus on several world flash points, with North Koreas continued defiance of the UN ban on its nuclear and ballistic-missile programs likely to be issue No. 1.

The UN Security Council and nearly all nations individually have condemned Pyongyangs missile tests, the latest of which came on September 15 when North Korea fired a ballistic projectile that flew over Japan.

The council called the launch "highly provocative" and an "outrageous action."

Still, not all nations are in agreement about how far the world body should go with enhanced sanctions against Pyongyang. China and Russia have rejected a U.S. call to take more "direct actions" to deter the North.

Pyongyang will be sending a low-level representative to the assembly.

Also facing the world leaders is a humanitarian crisis involving some 400,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees who have fled violence in Burma and are languishing in camps in Bangladesh.

Terrorism and global warming -- and U.S. intentions in regard to the Paris climate accords -- are also likely to be the subject of intense discussion, and disagreement, among world leaders.

In the past, Trump has been a vocal critic of the UN, and aides say he will be pushing "UN reform" -- mainly looking for members to contribute more to global projects, including peacekeeping operations, which cost some $8 billion a year.

Jon B. Alterman, a senior vice president at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, told The New York Times that the world is still trying to take the measure of this president.

For a number of leaders, this is going to be their first chance to see him, to judge him, to try to get on his good side, he said.

With reporting by AP, dpa, USA Today, and The New York Times
At least eight people were killed and 67 others injured as a violent storm ripped through western Romania on September 17.

Winds of up to 100 kilometers an hour also brought devastation to parts of Serbia and Croatia, officials reported.

Road and rail traffic was disrupted by trees blown down by the heavy winds, and roof damage was reported by hospitals, schools, and apartment buildings. Dozens of towns and villages were left without electricity.

Nicolae Robu, mayor of the western city of Timisoara, told local TV station Digi24 that there are dozens of trees on the ground, roads blocked. We are out of electricity and water. There are roofs torn off houses, apartment buildings. There are overturned trucks. I've never seen anything like this."

Emergency officials in the city said a man died after he was hit by a billboard and a woman was killed by a falling tree.

Two people were killed in Bistrita-Nasaud county in northern Romania, one of them hit by a tree in the citys park.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, Romania-Insider, and VOA
You need to know what it can do - the extremes it can go to.

You need to imagine what you can get from it.

- Mad Professor
Straight shot up U.S. 31 to I-94 finally open in Berrien County

Last few miles had been unfinished since 2004 because of a lack of money to pay for it.
Onalaskas city attorney next month will present his findings of his investigation into potentially mishandled cases in Coulee Region Joint Municipal Court.

Attorney Sean OFlaherty reviewed at least eight bankers boxes that could contain unprosecuted citations and cases with unreported convictions that were discovered by court staff earlier this year.

OFlaherty will inform the Joint Municipal Court Committee of his findings at its Oct. 19 meeting, City Administrator Eric Rindfleisch said.

The committee and Judge John Brinckman oversee the municipal court, which handles thousands of ordinance and traffic tickets issued by police in Onalaska, Bangor, Holmen, Rockland, West Salem, Campbell, Holland and Shelby annually.

The Onalaska Common Council last week approved an agreement with a La Crosse accounting firm to review the courts financial procedures using a sample from three months in 2014-16. The evaluation could also detect issues in the courts overall operation, including whether tickets are proceeded correctly.

The review, which could cost up to $8,000, will take about two months.
Meet the Gemini 10 Crew

NASA

Launched on July 18, 1966, the purpose of NASA's Gemini 10 mission was to conduct a double rendezvous and docking test with a two-person crew in orbit. Astronaut John Young (left) was the command pilot, joined by pilot Michael Collins (right). During one of two spacewalks of the three-day mission, Collins became the first person to visit another spacecraft in orbit. The mission also set a new altitude record for human spaceflight. [Gemini Program: Two-Man Prep for Moon Missions

Training in Zero-G

NASA

On April 1, 1966, the Gemini 10 backup pilot, astronaut Clifton C. Williams, Jr. participates in a zero-gravity egress training event in a KC-135 Air Force plane. [Vomit Comet: Training Flights for Astronauts]

Altitude Chamber Tests

NASA

At the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation's 30-feet altitude chamber in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gemini 10 astronauts get ready for a flight simulation on April 14, 1966.

Ready for the Finale

NASA

Onboard the NASA Motor Vessel Retriever, astronaut Michael Collins, the Gemini 10 prime crew pilot, sits in Static Article #5 (SA-5), a water egress trainer, on June 18, 1966. Collins and astronaut John Young, command pilot, were placed in the water inside the SA-5 to practice exiting the craft as well as water survival techniques.

EVA Run Through

NASA

During a flight on a KC-135 Air Force airplane June 17, 1966, astronaut Michael Collins practices using equipment for a micrometeorite experiment in zero-gravity. He was preparing for an extravehicular activity planned for the Gemini 10 mission.

Pieces and Parts

NASA

In preparation for the July 18, 1966 launch, Gemini 10 prime crew pilot Michael Collins (left), inspects a camera while Donald K. Slayton (center), the Manned Spacecraft Center Director of Flight Crew Operations, observes.

Preparing for the Mission

NASA

Outside the Launch Complex 16 suiting trailer, Gemini 10 prime crew command pilot John Young (right) and prime crew pilot Michael Collins (left) participate in preflight activities at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Posing for Posterity

NASA

In front of a large radar dish outside Kennedy Space Center's Mission Control, the Gemini 10 prime crew, John Young (left) and Michael Collins (right) wear their spacesuits and helmets for a photo session with the press.

Walking the Ramp

NASA

On July 18, 1966, astronaut John Young, command pilot, leads Michael Collins, pilot, as they walk up the Pad 19 ramp. After leaving the Launch Complex 19 suiting trailer during the prelaunch countdown, the Gemini 10 prime crew rode the elevator up to the white room, where the entered their spacecraft before launch.

Successful Launch

NASA

NASA's Titan II GLV rocket lifted off on July 18, 1966 at 5:20 p.m. EST (0920 GMT), toting the Gemini 10 spacecraft with astronauts John Young and Michael Collins on board.

Rocker Arm Illusion

NASA

A time lapse image of the Gemini-Titan 10 spacecraft launch gives the illusion of multiple rocker arms during the launch on July 18, 1966.
After spending eight months simulating life on Mars on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano, six "astronauts" emerged from their Hawaiian habitat on Sunday (Sept. 17) to return to civilization.

This concluded the fifth mock Mars mission of the NASA-funded HI-SEAS program (Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation). Operated by the University of Hawaii, this research project studies how groups of interplanetary travelers would work together on long-term missions while in cramped quarters.

During the mission, four men and two women lived in isolation from the rest of planet Earth and could eat only shelf-stable foods and occasional lab-grown vegetables. When communicating with the outside world, they had to deal with the 20-minute delay that astronauts on Mars would experience as well. And any time they went outside, they had to put on their spacesuits. [In Photos: 8 Months on 'Mars' with the HI-SEAS Mission V Crew]

HI-SEAS V crewmembers Brian Ramos and Laura Lark walk around the mock Mars habitat. (Image credit: Hi-SEAS)

The Mission V crew entered the HI-SEAS dome on Jan. 19. During their eight-month stay on Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, they conducted scientific experiments, performed daily exercises and maintained equipment in and around the dome. Outside the dome, the astronauts did geological fieldwork in their spacesuits just as if they were on Mars.

While HI-SEAS studies the more technical and practical aspects of living on Mars, a large part of the investigation is to see how a group of people live together in isolation with little to no privacy. [On Months-Long Missions, How Durable Is An Astronaut's Mind?]

"Long-term space travel is absolutely possible," Laura Lark, IT specialist for HI-SEAS V, said in a video. "There are certainly technical challenges to be overcome. There are certainly human factors to be figured out, thats part of what HI-SEAS is for. But I think that overcoming those challenges is just a matter of effort. We are absolutely capable of it."

The HI-SEAS V crew poses for a group photo after completing their mock Mars mission on Sept. 17. From left to right: Brian Ramos, Laura Lark, Ansley Barnard, Samuel Payler, Joshua Ehrlich, James Bevington (Image credit: Hi-SEAS)

After the crew emerged from the HI-SEAS dome at 9 a.m. EDT (1300 GMT), they " felt the sun and wind on their faces and ate fresh tropical papaya, pineapple and bananas with friends and family," University of Hawaii officials said in a statement.

"My advice to mission six is say, 'Yes." HI-SEAS V health and performance officer Brian Ramos said in the video. "If you have an opportunity whether its filming or learning a new science skill or flying the drone, going out to a lava tube, whatever it is, say, "Yes.' Take leadership on things. Honestly, you can come out of here in eight months learning a ton of stuff." [We Visited Mock Mars: Here's What It's Like to Live There]

The next HI-SEAS mission, HI-SEAS VI, is scheduled to begin in 2018 and will also last eight months.

Email Hanneke Weitering at hweitering@space.com or follow her @hannekescience. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.
Tons of extraterrestrial dust particles fall to Earth every day, and these micrometeorites have hit our planet throughout history. For several years, scientists have found ancient, fossilized micrometeorites embedded in Earth rocks, and now, a new cache of ancient space debris has been found within England's famous, chalky white cliffs of Dover. Scientists say studying these tiny particles could provide a new source of information about comet passes, asteroid collisions, and other tumultuous events in the early solar system.

"What micrometeorites from rocks tell us is the amount of space dust falling on Earth in the past," Matt Genge of Imperial College London told Seeker. "This changes depending on events in the solar system. Large collisions between asteroids for example generate lots of dust and increase the amount falling on Earth. This means we can use rocks on Earth to detect long past events far beyond our own planet."

The micrometeorites that fall to Earth are likely cosmic "leftovers" from relatively recent space events. The newly found particles embedded in the cliffs are much older say Genge and his co-author Martin Suttle, who is also from Imperial College London. The fossilized dust, they argue in a paper published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters, could help explain events that took place as long as 98 million years ago  a period in the cosmic dust record that is scarce.

"The iconic white cliffs of Dover are an important source of fossilized creatures that help us to determine the changes and upheavals the planet has undergone many millions of years ago," Suttle said in a statement. "It is so exciting because we've now discovered that fossilized space dust is entombed alongside these creatures, which can also provide us with information about what was happening in our solar system at the time."

RELATED: Martian Meteorite That Sparked 'Primitive Life' Claim Gets a New Look

Suttle and Genge found seventy-six tiny cosmic beads embedded in Earth rocks, with the tiny spherules of varying composition, from pristine silicate and iron-type micrometeorites to recrystallized magnetite. The research team said they have found a new method to study ancient rocks and look for cosmic dust, which enabled their find in Dover. The fossilization process that Earth rocks undergo can sometimes mask the identity of any embedded space dust particles, meaning some particles may have been overlooked.

The recovered spherules were analyzed using an electron microscope. The particles were next embedded in resin, sectioned, polished and carbon-coated, allowing researchers to produce high-resolution images of their internal structure. Particles were then re-polished and analyzed by Raman spectroscopy.

The team was able to identify the samples as micrometeorites on the basis of their characteristic mineralogy, structure, and compositions. Micrometeorites have a distinctive spherical structure and Christmas tree-like shape in their crystalized content.

"This study demonstrates that fossil, pseudomorphic micrometeorites can be recognized and are likely common within the geological record," the team wrote.

Estimates vary of how much cosmic dust and meteorites enter Earth's atmosphere each day, but range from 5 to 330 tons. These estimates are made from satellite data and extrapolations of meteorite falls.

Genge said the best approximations for the amount of dust hitting the top of the atmosphere come from the Long Duration Exposure Facility Experiment in the 1980s, a satellite that spent five and half years orbiting Earth. LDEF data led researchers to estimate the amount of cosmic dust at 10,000-40,000 tons per year.

"This agrees with the amount of dust we find in Antarctic ice considering 90 percent of it evaporates," he said. "The range of estimates largely comes from predictions by astronomers of the supply to Earth, or from meteor measurements, that can only detect a fraction of the incoming flux. I find both these estimates, based largely on models with many assumptions or difficult observations, much less reliable than the direct measurements. I thus don't think there is much uncertainty in the flux, it is simply reconciling different measurements by different techniques with varying uncertainties."

RELATED: Stunning Detail Revealed in Solar System Geology Maps

Genge was part of a recent study that determined even amateur meteorite sleuths could find micrometeorites on roofs and in drain spouts. Even though high-tech instruments were required to analyze the cliffs of Dover, he said amateurs can search for micrometeorites.

"There is no reason why anyone can't look for cosmic dust in rocks," he said. "It is simple. Crush the rock into a powder with a hammer. Run a magnet across the rock. Then using a hand-lens or microscope, look for completely spherical particles. These are likely to be cosmic dust."

He added that looking in rocks for cosmic dust would probably be easier than looking for micrometeorites on roofs.

"It all comes down to how much ordinary Earth material is there," he said. "Some rocks were deposited in the deep oceans where as little as 3 millimeters of mud accumulates in 1,000 years. These muds are full of cosmic dust since they have had time to accumulate. Everyone who has ever had to clean their gutters knows how much material accumulates there, consequently there are fewer micrometeorites."

Originally published on Seeker.
Al-Arjat Prison (Morocco), Sep 16, 2017 (SPS) - The Moroccan forces on Saturday carried out the abusive transfer of Sahrawi political prisoners of Gdeim Izik from Al-Arjat prison to other Moroccan prisons, according to a Saharawi media source.

The families of the Saharawi political prisoners of Gdeim Izik group confirmed that Al-Arjat prison guards attacked the prisoners' cells and forcibly transferred them to other prisons.

The political prisoners of Gdeim Izik group are probably transferred to the Moroccan prisons of Knetra and Ait Melloul, where the Moroccan authorities have just completed some works in these prisons, added the source.

This abusive transfer is part of retaliation against the group, condemned to heavy sentences of imprisonment ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment, for their successive demands to be transferred to the prison occupied of El Aaiun. (SPS)

062/090/TRA
The McDonalds chains latest building design and technology  such as kiosks for ordering and mobile ordering  are some highlights of the new restaurant that Onalaska-based franchisee Courtesy Corp. will open at 5 a.m. Thursday at 2437 George St. on the North Side of La Crosse.

The new restaurant replaces the one that closed Feb. 27 at 1140 W. George St. That restaurant, which opened in 1972 and was Courtesy Corp.s second location, was purchased by the state of Wisconsin and demolished for the overhaul of George Street as part of a revamping of Interstate 90s Exit 3.

Courtesy Corp. today owns and operates 59 McDonalds restaurants in western Wisconsin, southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa.

In an interview at the new George Street restaurant, Courtesy Corp. President Rick Lommen also said the McDonalds restaurant on La Crosses South Side is expected to be replaced with a new building in 2018. Its just time to update, he said of the current Losey Boulevard restaurant that opened in 1976.

As for the new North Side McDonalds, Lommen said, I think it should be very well-received by customers. All these different (new) ways of ordering are pretty exciting. It brings the latest technology into McDonalds.

Although customers will be able to order at the counter as they always have, theyll also have the option of ordering at one of four new kiosks. If they choose to order at a kiosk, they can pay at the kiosk with a credit card or debit card or pay at the counter.

Those who order at the kiosks can take a table tent with a number on it to their table, and an employee will bring their food to them.

The kiosks are the first ones to be installed in a Courtesy Corp. restaurant. These kiosks will be in every McDonalds in the United States by 2020, Lommen said.

Well also have mobile ordering at the new restaurant, Lommen said. You can order and pay on your smartphone. And you can pick up the food either at the drive-thru or at a designated curbside delivery location, or inside.

The George Street McDonalds will be one of the first Courtesy Corp. locations to have mobile ordering, and the rest will have it within a month.

The new restaurant can seat 121 people inside, about 15 outside, and has about 80 employees.
New York, Sep 17, 2017 (SPS) -A delegation of the Polisario Front, led by the Sahrawi coordinator with the MINURSO Mhamed Khdead held talks Thursday in New York with the United Nations Envoy for Western Sahara Horst Kohler.

The talks, attended by Representative of the Polisario Front at the UN Ahmed Boukhari, allowed an exchange of viewpoints and information on the UN process in Western Sahara.

This first official meeting also focused on the prospects of this process as part of the mission entrusted to Kohler by the UN Security Council and Secretary General to find a fair and sustainable solution guaranteeing the Sahrawi people's inalienable right to self-determination and independence.

The Polisario Front reiterated its willingness to cooperate with the UN Secretary General's envoy, with a view to resolving the Sahrawi issue.

The new UN envoy, which succeeds to Christopher Ross, is expected to present his first report on Western Sahara within six months.

In last April, the UN SG promised to reopen negotiations, which stopped in 2012, "with a new impetus."

The SC also urged the General Secretariat to facilitate direct negotiations between the two parties, which should lead to the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. (SPS)

062/090/APS




M uch ordure has been thrown at Boris Johnsons weekend essay on Brexit. Most of it, however, misses the main point about this most dangerous of politicians.

Yes, his piece was ill-timed, coming the day after a terror attack on London. Yes, he giddily justified the 350 million-a-week-for-theNHS lie. Yes, he even claimed, against all the scientific communitys advice, that Brexit will help advance UK science.

But surely his biggest crime against the British people, many of whom lap up his every word, is his continued push for a hard, fast Brexit.

For Boris is part of that hardline Brexit crew which want out just 12-18 months after 2019. Less a transition than an amputation.

In pursuing such a rapid cut off, he is betraying that he, and those hardliners who support him, have no real understanding of how the real world, particularly the world of business, works.

Adjusting to whatever deal we eventually get will take years, not months. We need as long as possible to allow companies to adjust to the new arrangements.

Take the car industry. In his article, he suggests Britain will be better able to benefit from the electric car revolution if we crash out of the EU.

But talk to BMW, one of the few major car companies pledging to make electric vehicles in the UK, and you hear serious concerns about how much Brexit negotiating must be done to ensure its supply chains remain unhindered.

Its electric Mini may be planned to be built in Oxford, but the motors, gearbox and battery will be imported from Germany.

How willing will BMW be to continue that if we crash out of the EU and into World Trade Organisation tariffs (currently 4.5% on EU components)? Answer: not very.

As the company hinted yesterday, its other Mini factory in Holland would win the business.

And thats only one industry. Given that weve made practically no progress on the talks so far, it seems highly unlikely that we will reach long-term trade agreements for each of our major sectors by 2019.

If we really have to pursue Brexit, lets do it slowly and make it as painless as possible for employers to adjust, with enough time to negotiate special pleading for industries who need it most.

If not, our overseas partners and the millions of jobs they create here will simply go elsewhere.

And Boris, try listening to real businesses before you next put pen to paper.

An afterthought on Britains green car industry: eco-engine plants for Ford and Nissan in the UK were largely secured thanks to 650 million of loans from the European Investment Bank.

For some reason that seemed to slip Boriss mind.
R eports that Esure founder Peter Wood is revving up to sell the car insurer drove its shares higher today.

Wood has held informal talks with potential buyers to offload his 31% stake in the FTSE 250 owner of Sheilas Wheels, says the Sunday Times. Any deal would lead to a bid for the entire company under UK takeover rules.

Rival insurance bosses are reported to have been contacted by Wood in recent months, with a US insurer seen as the most likely buyer.

Pointing to recent share sales from Hastings founders Goldman Sachs and its directors, Shore Capital analyst Eamonn Flanagan said the idea that Wood might also be considering an exit does not surprise us.

The forthcoming reversal of the Ogden discount rate moves is likely to lead to a rate war, as previously impacted companies seek to regain the market share they lost these past six months to the likes of Esure and Hastings, he wrote.

Last week, it emerged that the AA and Hastings had talks over a merger of their insurance businesses.

Shares in Esure, which spun off the Gocompare price comparison site last year, surged 16.3p, or 6.2%, today to 278.9p, valuing it at nearly 1.2 billion.

Heightened speculation of increased merger activity in the sector also lifted its rivals. Admiral rose 30.32p to 1815.5p, the AA was up 3.63p to 170.11p, and Hastings climbed 0.92p to 297.7p.

After four consecutive sessions in the red, the FTSE 100 managed to stop the rot and rose 26.25 points to 7241.72.

BAE Systems was among the risers after Qatar said it would buy 24 of its Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, easing concerns about a lack of new orders.

While the terms of the deal have not been revealed, Jefferies estimated it could be worth $6 billion. BAE rose 16.17p, or 2.7%, to 612.17p.

GKN, another aerospace engineer, got a boost as Exane BNP Paribas upgraded it from underperform to neutral, encouraged that Kevin Cummings, its aerospace division boss, will be in charge next year, signalling a focus on aerospace and a move away from its driveshaft business.

Speculation of interest from Chinese buyers has stalked GKN for over a year. Exane said the British and US governments are unlikely to wave through a full takeover by a Chinese company, meaning any deal would be for its automotive engineering business. Shares rose 8.7p, or 2.6%, to 347.5p.

Ryanair fell 46 cents to 16.55 as the budget airline started cancelling flights after admitting it had messed up planning its pilots holidays.

Construction firm Interserve, up 12.85p at 94.35p, recovered a touch after last weeks painful profit warning. Investors were more optimistic of a turnaround as it revealed it had hired Mark Whiteling as its finance chief.
T his is meant to be the week when, eyeball to eyeball with the EU negotiators, Britain blinks. The PM will go to Florence to give a speech on Friday, nominally about the renaissance that apparently awaits Brexit Britain. In fact, the city of Machiavelli will be treated to an object lesson in the realities of power. Theresa May is getting ready to do the one thing she didnt want to do: put an offer on the table.

For more than a year, the British government has tried to avoid making the first move in the Brexit negotiations because of the risk of being turned down.

Thats why it refused to admit it needed an agreement at all, repeating the mantra that no deal is better than a bad deal, and it wouldnt put any kind of financial offer on the table unless and until the Europeans agreed to discuss the new post-Brexit trade arrangements.

The vain hope was that the united front presented by the remaining 27 member states would start to crack apart. It hasnt  and claims that it might be about to are wishful thinking.

After three rounds of negotiations, there has been almost no substantive progress. The British regard that as a failure, the Europeans as a success. Thats because the longer there is no progress the more difficult our position becomes.

It is now universally acknowledged across Whitehall that there is no way the UK can crash out of the economic arrangements of the EU in just 18 months time.

The Chancellor last week gave one small, prosaic example of the thousands of reasons why: there simply isnt the physical space in Dover to accommodate the lorries that would be queuing up for customs checks if we suddenly left the customs union.

So we desperately need a transition  a period after legally leaving the EU where we stay in the single market and the customs union.

The problem with May

The problem is only the EU can give us that transition. Its true that some other member states need a transition too  the ports of Flanders would struggle without one, and Irelands position would be precarious  but so far they have maintained a disciplined poker face.

Indeed, the Belgian and Irish prime ministers are among the most unforthcoming because they know they can afford to wait.

Not so Britain. For as each month passes without even an agreement in principle to a transition, companies that operate within EU legal regimes (such as banks, airlines and pharmaceuticals) are starting to get nervous and considering relocating parts of their business.

Thats why Mrs May has, quite rightly, blinked  and wants to use her Florence speech to make the sensible offer of money in return for a transition.

Theres only one problem. Her Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, will be humiliated if she does. For he travelled around the country last year promising people that far from paying billions for leaving the EU, wed get 350 million a week back.

In Cabinet meetings, he has spoken out against the need for a longer transition and the panoply of EU obligations this will entail, from ECJ jurisdiction to free movement, because how could he square that with taking back control?

Above all, Mr Johnson threw his lot in with the Brexiteers to upend the existing order and install himself in Downing Street.

Instead he finds the current occupants manoeuvring to stay there and preserve what the Chancellor calls the status quo. All this has led to the question on Tory lips: wheres Boris?

So as a journalist turned politician, he has chosen his weapon of choice  the long newspaper column  to lash out.

In doing so, he has thrown away a year of effort at trying to become the team player, sought again to divide the nation rather than unite it, and revived (with help from the UK Statistics Authority) his reputation for being economical with the truth.

But Mr Johnson had little choice. For if Mrs May gives the speech she wants to in Florence, he faces the kind of fatal blow the Medicis would have been familiar with.
T he explosion on the Tube at Parsons Green, which police have confirmed they are treating as a terrorist incident, has injured passengers and conjured up memories of earlier terror attacks  though we do not yet know who is responsible.

What is evident is that while there was understandable panic among passengers, many behaved well, evacuating the train and supporting people who were hurt.

The police and emergency staff who came to the scene were exemplary in their approach. In the face of yet another terrorist incident, Londoners did their best.

There is to be a meeting of the emergency Cobra committee this afternoon, chaired by the Prime Minister, to consider how to respond to the attack.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, spoke for the capital when he declared that our city utterly condemns the hideous individuals who attempt to use terror to harm us and destroy our way of life.

In a busy global metropolis there can be no absolute guarantees of security; we can only be as safe as good intelligence from police and security services can make us.

And common sense and alertness to the risk of terror attacks matter too, which means we must all be vigilant about unattended bags and packages such as the one that appears to have caused the explosion today.

This attack is a reminder, if one were needed, that the risk of terrorism is ever-present: what we can do is watch out for obvious dangers, and to report our concerns to police.

Meanwhile, London and its transport system will continue to function in the face of an attack designed to elicit panic and division: it hasnt done so.

China must act

This week the UN imposed fresh economic sanctions on North Korea, directed at its textile industry and oil imports.

Last night the regime fired a ballistic missile that flew over Japan, with an even longer range than the one at the beginning of the month which elicited the sanctions.

The trouble is, there is not a great deal Western powers can do in response, other than to call yet another meeting of the UN Security Council, which will happen today. North Korea is vulnerable to sanctions: trade is the single most important source of foreign currency.

Some 90 per cent of it is conducted through China. Sanctions will bite but they may not deter further missile tests in the short term.

The US Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, has responded to the tests by observing that China and Russia must indicate their intolerance for these reckless missile launches by taking direct actions of their own.

Its a sensible approach because these two powers, chiefly China, are uniquely placed to put direct pressure on the regime. Instability, let alone conflict, in the region would have a devastating effect on China and, to some extent, Russia.

Let us see if they can use their undoubted leverage over the North Korean regime to force it to abandon further launches. China must shoulder global responsibilities commensurate with its economic power.

Fast fashion

London Fashion Week strutted into town this morning.

It will be enlivened by new Vogue editor Edward Enninful on the front row and new ideas on how those clothes move from the catwalk to the high street.

The West End expects to see a jump to 735 million in sales this month as people flock to London for the shows and fashion designers move to a new sales model of see now, buy now, eliminating the old six-month lag between a show and clothes appearing in shops.

Thats one new model that is looking very healthy on the catwalk.
L ondon has now faced its fourth terrorist attack this year. As details emerge, new peculiarities are uncovered. The brutal reality, though, is that low-level terror plots like that at Parsons Green are becoming the norm.

This is not a tacit admission of defeat, but rather a warning that we are facing an increasingly diffuse threat. This means we all have to be alert, while the authorities need to maintain and even step up the tempo of their effort to stay ahead of the threat.

There are some novel peculiarities around the Parsons Green attack. A bomb left on an Underground train with a timer is something that had not been seen for some time. Most recent bombers seemed to have had suicidal intent.

While most recent plots have been conducted by UK-born individuals, the potential presence of refugees in this attack is not entirely new. ISs pro-forma claim to be behind the attack lacks evidence of prior knowledge, but it is perfectly possible those responsible may have assimilated some of its ideology.

Armed police on duty across UK after Parsons Green bomb attack

This is the larger context that the authorities are contending with: a threat made up of disparate individuals launching attacks using rudimentary and home-made means. The time it takes for them to be galvanised into action continues to shrink, and terrorist groups are emitting an ever more basic message to encourage sympathisers to launch attacks.

Given the easy access and diffuse nature of the ideology and attack methods it becomes very difficult to maintain complete cover. On top of this, the authorities are seeing more individuals who were previously under suspicion moving back into current investigations, and a continuing inflow of people from troubled areas  a limited number of whom may arrive with lethal intent.

Parsons Green explosion incident on the Tube - In pictures 1 /36 Parsons Green explosion incident on the Tube - In pictures Images emerged on social media of flames spilling from a bucket which appeared to be on the train Kett News Emergency services on the platform at Parsons Green Metro An injured woman is assisted by a police officer close to Parsons Green station in west London after an explosion on a packed London Underground train Dominic Lipinski/PA Armed police stand by a cordon outside Parsons Green tube station Kevin Coombs/Reuters Police, fire and ambulance crews descended on the station Cllr Daniel Holden An injured woman is comforted outside the station Reuters Bomb disposal and armed police unitson the scene at Parsons Green Jeremy Selwyn Personal belonglongs and a bucket with an item on fire inside it, are seen on the floor of an underground train carriage at Parsons Green station Sylvian Pennec/Reuters Police with a woman after the incident at Parsons Green Metro Nick Crowley shows his charred forehead following an explosion whilst on the Tube Nick Crowley Armed British police officers walk through the carriage of a London underground tube carriage at Parsons Green underground tube station in west London AFP/Getty Images Tube carriage and emergency services on the tracks after explosion Sky News Police and emergency services at Parsons Green Station following reports of an explosion on a tube train. Kerry Davies/Daily Mail An injured woman is led away after an incident at Parsons Green underground station in London Reuters Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley speaks to the media outside New Scotland Yard, London, after a terrorist incident was declared following a blast which sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A forensics officer on the platform at Parsons Green station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident following a blast which sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A tube train at Parsons Green station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident following a blast sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A police officer and a sniffer dog pictured near Parsons Green tube station Reuters View of emergency services on the tracks at Parsons Green Sky News Commuters were left traumatised by the incident Reuters Bomb disposal units rushed to the scene Reuters Crowds gather outside Parsons Green tube station AFP/Getty Images A woman reacts outside Parsons Green tube station Reuters Emergency services tend to panicked commuters outside Parsons Green Tube station Emma (Twitter) Images emerged of a bucket alight reportedly on the District Line train @RRigs Fire crews, police and ambulance crews rushed to the scene Richard Aylmer-Hall/PA Police vehicles line the street near Parsons Green tube station Reuters

The good news is that all terrorists are finding it increasingly difficult to launch large-scale coordinated plots.

The greater danger appears to be among the broader community from whom terrorists come. More work needs to be done tying together the many different information streams that authorities have access to and more thought given to how to prioritise them. And the pressure needs to be kept up in keeping known figures under adequate surveillance.

Loading....

But there is a role for the public too. There is an onus on us Londoners to keep our eyes open.

As a child in London, I recall constant public campaigns about potential IRA devices on public transport. Tubes were held up by abandoned bags, but many attacks were prevented. There needs to be a return to this approach. We all need to keep our eyes open to protect the society in which we live.

Raffaello Pantucci is director of international security studies at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
F ame arises from strange places. You might have thought Sean Spicer, the hapless White House spokesman, was all washed up after quitting his job. Who would want the guy who went into yogic contortions to try and defend President Trump anywhere near their C-suite, TV studio, or even a childrens party?

Aside from an interview with Jimmy Kimmel chat show, Spicer has only been seen visiting the Pope in the Vatican, presumably because he needed a particularly superior form of forgiveness.

But last night, amongst the ruffles of ballgowns at the Emmys television awards, as host Stephen Colbert mused on the question of how he would be able to gauge the size of his audience, the screens parted. Sean Spicer arrived pushing his podium on stage, a homage to his comedy double, Melissa McCarthy, with whom he will now forever be twinned. This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys  period. Both in person and around the world, joked Spicer. Wow that really soothes my fragile ego, shot back Colbert.

There is nothing like a person released from the binds of an official post to be able to send up what they did. Once youve walked on one stage, stood behind another podium, whats the difference, whether it is the White House or an LA awards ceremony? The audience whooped at the carnival of it all, but it didnt take long for tweeting detractors to start moaning about how it was normalising Spicer  a man who came to stand for a regime of half-truths  and that it was a betrayal of satirical comedy to start absorbing its own characters into its repertoire.

But does American comedy not win this one? After all, if Stephen Colbert and The Daily Shows Trevor Noah, who have followings to rival Donald Trumps, start picking off his top men and women for an appearance on their shows or as the fall guy in their comedy routine, who has got the upper hand in the end? And who gets the ratings  that very subject the president is so sensitive about?

How kind of him to make the next generation of TV stars.

69th Primetime Emmy Awards 2017 - In pictures 1 /57 69th Primetime Emmy Awards 2017 - In pictures Elisabeth Moss poses in the press room with her awards for outstanding lead actress in a drama series and outstanding drama series for "The Handmaid's Tale" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Alexander Skarsgard, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon with their Emmy for Big Little Lies Lucy Nicholson/Reuters Host Stephen Colbert performs at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Charlie Brooker accepts the award for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series or Movie for Blac Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda (L to R) present the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Nicole Kidman, left, and Keith Urban arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Jessica Biel arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Robin Wright and Dylan Frances Penn arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Heidi Klum arrives for the 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards Jimmy Morris/EPA Julia Louis-Dreyfus poses in the press room with her awards for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series and outstanding comedy series for "Veep" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Reese Witherspoon poses in the press room with the award for outstanding limited series for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Sofia Vergara arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Michelle Pfeiffer arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Viola Davis arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Riz Ahmed poses with the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for The Night Of REUTERS Claire Foy and Matt Smith attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Anna Faris and Allison Janney speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Kevin Winter/Getty Images Nicole Kidman congratulates Alexander Skarsgard after winning the award for outstanding supporting actor in a limited series or a movie for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Alex Berliner/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images) Donald Glover accepts the award for outstanding directing for a comedy series for the "Atlanta" episode "B.A.N." at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer speaks t the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Kate McKinnon poses in the press room with the award for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for "Saturday Night Live" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Finn Wolfhard, from left, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Laura Dern poses in the press room with the award for outstanding supporting actress in a limited series or movie for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Invision/AP Jessica Lange (L) and Susan Sarandon attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Thandie Newton arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP James Corden and Julia Carey arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Invision/AP Gillian Anderson arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Sarah Hyland arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Priyanka Chopra arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Julia Louis-Dreyfus arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Ariel Winter arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Zoe Kravitz arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Kate McKinnon arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Shailene Woodley arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Millie Bobby Brown arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Lea Michele arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Padma Lakshmi arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Alec and Hilaria Baldwin arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Jane Krakowski arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Sarah Paulson arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Evan Rachel Wood arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Tracey Ullman arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Zach Galifianakis arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Meanwhile

It was the Womens March for the Emmys this year. Julia Louis-Dreyfuss Veep picked up an Emmy for its final series. The Handmaids Tale won, so too Nicole Kidman for Big Little Lies, with themes of domestic violence. And a 9-to-5 reunion with Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda who made a joke about how back in 1980 we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot... we still refuse. Acceptance speeches about the dearth of decent parts for women would have fallen flat this year. It seems the roles of women have finally come of age as fully fleshed-out characters. Perhaps now we can talk about how good the guys looked in their suits.

Mays speech will be more same old

Last week, an official was snapped carrying a draft of the speech Theresa May is due to give in Florence on Friday. One word was poking out: Renaissance.

In Downing Street, officials will be searching for constructs in the speech that will suggest this is our Renaissance in relations with the European Union after the Dark Ages of our opening Brexit talks.

But it will ring hollow if the Prime Minister doesnt get around to the serious subject of money. Florences greatness was founded on banking: the Medici family thrived on the power of honoured financial deals. From that, all else flowed.

For months, commentators have said that May wont talk about our settlement until after the Party conference, for fear of a rebellion of the hardline Brexiteers. But the continually slippery Government, who agreed to an exit bill by October, makes us appear to be sidling away from creditors and duty-bound not just to our EU obligations but also to the mafia of the Eurosceptic wing of her party.

Numbers game is haunting the NHS

Not many welcome the return of the 350 million debate but I did this weekend. Around once a month, the Trouble Club that I run in my spare time puts on a talk for members and the public. Tonights talk, conceived this summer, was the question: The NHS: so what shall we do with that 350 million, then? Before I too get a note from the head of the Office of National Statistics, this title was a joke.

But the question of what we do with funding is very real  a subject addressed tonight by an NHS manager and a frontline doctor.

Throwing around this figure is the equivalent of putting a sticking plaster on a gaping wound. By comparison with our EU neighbours, the budgets for our health service look underweight. The OBR projects a 58 billion black hole in public finances from Brexit  hardly much for hope for a budget rise  and there has been a 96 per cent per cent fall in EU nurse applications. So that 350 million number might as well be 500 million or 800 million. But as long as we are in the realm of the theoretical, what harm is there in talking about it?
London Fashion Week received a serious dose of Italian glamour last night, courtesy of Mr Armani.

With a showcase which brought the likes of Liam Payne and Ellie Goulding to Wapping's Tobacco Dock, Giorgio Armani chose the capital to unveil the latest collection for his younger, commercially-savvy offshoot label Emporio Armani.

"There's energy everywhere in this city," said Armani, speaking through a translator ahead of last night's show.

"The real ideas and creativity are born in London."

AFP/Getty Images

The esteemed designer, who usually shows both of his catwalk collections - Giorgio Armani and Emporio Armani - in Milan, presented a playful offering in a palette of gelato colours which sought to cater to the capital's eclectic customer.

Though it came with a typically Italian flavour. "Coming to London and trying to be English wasn't the right thing to do," Armani continued. "So I come to London, but I come with an Italian mentality."

Accordingly, breezy palazzo pants, ruffled sheer blouses and glossy party dresses were very much the order of the day. But these were offset with a sportswear aesthetic, with sweatshirt tops and long silk skirts worn with boxfresh white trainers which looked set to appeal to London's more casual approach to getting dressed.

AFP/Getty Images

Summery seaside prints, including a graphic crab motif, also brought a sense of ease to the offering. As Armani said: "I had fun with the collection."

Armani, who has carved a sartorial legacy from precision tailoring, was also mindful to include a host of his iconic suit jackets, but they cut a more relaxed figure than in the past.

"When I look back at those jackets, the shoulders were too exaggerated," Armani added. "It is not necessary for a woman who works to have big shoulders to be credible, she doesn't need that anymore." To this end, power dressing silhouettes were loosened with a languid line and softened with candy stripes and colourful gingham prints.

Flat shoes, such as jewel-embellished sandals and knotted slippers, also reflected Armani's years of experience designing for busy working women who require practicality as well as style from their wardrobes.

Armani, who was born in 1934 and established his company in 1975, was valued by Forbes to be worth $8.8 billion this year.

The brand's slot on the London Fashion Week schedule - the first since 2006 - comes in tandem with the opening of its renovated New Bond Street store which will house all elements from its collection, from casual to evening wear, under one roof.

The company, which has an annual turnover of $1.6 billion, is consolidating its many diffusion lines into three core collections - Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange - for a more streamlined approach to the business.

AFP/Getty Images

Ahead of yesterday's showcase, Armani collaborated with students from 34 leading fashion colleges around the UK who were tasked with re-designing three of his most iconic pieces - a bag, bomber jacket and flat brogue.

The winning pieces, which were all designed by students from the UAL's London College of Fashion, are available to buy in-store and online from today.

Armani's London takeover culminated in an after party which saw Ellie Goulding swap the front row for the stage in a series of live performances which also included Eighties pop sensation A-Ha.
Model Halima Aden today said she wanted to be a voice for young Muslim women in the fashion industry.

The Somali-American beauty, 20, who made her runway debut wearing a hijab in Kanye Wests New York Fashion Week show, told Grazia she wanted to spread a positive message about beauty in diversity.

Adens comments come after Canadian fashion designer Edeline Lee yesterday showcased models wearing hijabs at her London Fashion Week presentation.

Since rising to fame after a photo went viral of her wearing a hijab and burkini in the Miss Minnesota pageant, Aden has received support from Muslim girls around the world.

Max Mara AW17 at Milan Fashion Week 1 /30 Max Mara AW17 at Milan Fashion Week Max Mara at MFW Halima Aden walks the AW17 finale AP Max Mara at MFW Gigi Hadid walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Gigi Hadid walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Gigi Hadid backstage Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Lily Donaldson backstage Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Collection details backstage Getty Images Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Lily Donaldson walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Collection detail backstage Getty Images Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Halima Aden walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Gigi Hadid walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Halima Aden walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Gigi Hadid walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW A model walks the AW17 runway AP Max Mara at MFW Models walk the AW17 finale AFP/Getty Images Max Mara at MFW Model Ashely Graham and her husband Justin Ervin were in attendance AP

She said: They never thought theyd see somebody [like me] in fashion.

Part of my job is to give them a platform to have their voices heard.

Born in a Kenyan refugee camp, she moved to the United States aged six with her mother and younger brother. Aden reflected on how coming through adversity had taught her to dream.

She said: Every kid in the refugee camp wanted to rule the world. The St Cloud State University student, who wanted to major in international relations or social work, entered the Minnesota beauty pageant for a shot at winning a scholarship. Although she did not advance in the competition, it launched her into a position of influence to empower women.

One project Aden is most excited about is her #ICAN campaign for American Eagle Outfitters in which she wears a denim hijab that sold out within two weeks of its debut.

She said: To be able to walk into the mall and even see the word hijab, thats huge. It shows that were finally being accepted as consumers.

The full interview and shoot with Halima Aden appears in this weeks Big Fashion Issue of Grazia, on sale tomorrow
With the summer season nearly over, you may already be looking into rich winter hues, insulating materials and cosier, ambient lighting. Yellow has become increasingly popular with many designers adding different shades into their collections.

Using the colour effectively will add life and a brightness to your home, meaning summer can be extended inside your living space for a little longer, and making the transition to autumn and winter that little bit easier.

Here are a few recommendations on how to use yellow well, plus the pieces that will add a touch of joy into your interiors.

Textiles

Textiles are great for adding hints of colour and helping to enhance ambience. Yellow can be strong and too intense if not used correctly, so it is important to ensure the shade you choose is a soft one with more honey tones. When choosing accessories, opt for designs where yellow is the feature and not the main colour, as it will still stand out but not overpower.

This throw from the leading Italian design brand, Calligaris, is the perfect option for your fix of yellow. The main pattern is a beautiful monochrome design, bordered with a yellow hem which adds a pop that will liven up the setting in which it is used. It can be used as a bedcover or a delightful throw over your favourite armchair or sofa.

98, Buy it here.

Rugs can change the atmosphere of a room by bringing in different tones and creating structure. Using a patterned rug is perfect for adding depth whilst bringing in a focal point too.

This rug is a stunning design by the brand Smallable and can be found at Find Design  a beautifully curated site of stunning interior pieces. It is a practical size at 1.4m x 2m and the tones of yellow are perfectly mellowed and understated.

Buy it here.

Soft Furnishings

If you are confident with using yellow in your interiors, then adding it into your soft furnishings can work very well.

This luxurious Italian Velvet ottoman is a show-stopping design and will add glamour into your living room. Available in two sizes, it can be used as a footstool or even as a coffee table  style it with a stack of books and a marble tray to complete the setting. It is available from the wonderful lifestyle store, Att Pynta, for 425.00.

If you are apprehensive, yet curious, about adding a bold colour to your living space, bring it in through a classic design or shape that will create more of a statement.

Buy it here.

Stellar Works has created a collection based on the wonderful designs of Vilhelm Wohlert, using some of his most celebrated works of the 1950s and revitalising them for the modern day. The Louisiana chair was designed to complement Wohlerts architectural work on the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Denmark: simple, stackable, balanced and beautifully unadorned.

The chair is available for 420.00. To view the stunning pieces Stellarworks have to offer, take a peek at their showroom on Great Titchfield Street throughout London Design Week.

Buy it here.

Another amazing classic design is available from the wonderful Vintage furniture designer, Galapagos. This classic original 1950s sofa is upholstered in a beautiful Dandelion Yellow velvet from Designers Guild. Its mid-century charm will bring delight into the home and would look perfect against a darker tone wall to ensure it really stands out.

1200, Buy it here.

Accessories

Accessories are great for bringing in a strong colour like yellow. Not only are they a fool-proof option for those who are more reserved with their interiors, but they can complement an existing colour scheme you may already have.

The Soleil Plant Screen from West Elm is perfect for keeping the summer vibes going and can be used indoors or outdoors. Not only will it refresh the room, but it is also a super way of bringing botanicals onto the scene. Its bold, retro style is eye-catching and offers space for 11 planters  we recommend adding long, trailing plants for extra impact.

183.20, Buy it here.

Cushions are excellent for bringing yellow into a room. Nina Kulberg offers a gorgeous collection of designs and draws inspiration from iconic landmarks to create fun and playful patterns. The Chicago cushion uses touches of 'Yolk Yellow', which has a deeper tone and a magnificent richness. It will consequently fit perfectly within your living room or as a cushion on your bed, adding elegance into whatever setting it is placed. It can be found on her online store for 73.20.

Buy it here.

Summer may nearly be over, but using yellow will help keep your home bright and welcoming whilst the transition into autumn begins. Be confident with your choices and use the richer and more honeyed tones of yellow to balance it perfectly into your home.

Roddy Clarke is a Design Journalist and Interior Stylist. Email him at contact@roddyclarke.com or follow him on Instagram.
Between 2,000 and 4,000 people are expected to flock to La Crosses St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral on Wednesday to see and venerate relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, a noted 20th century mystic and healer better known as Padre Pio.

The relics, including a lock of Pios hair, a glove and a handkerchief soaked with his sweat hours before his death, among other things, will be available for viewing and veneration from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the cathedral at 530 Main St., where Masses will be celebrated at 12:10 and 7 p.m., with Bishop William Callahan presiding at 7, in honor of the occasion.

The La Crosse event is part of a 12-diocese U.S. tour that the Saint Pio Foundation is sponsoring to celebrate the 130th anniversary of Padre Pios birth and the 15th anniversary of his canonization as a saint.

Callahan encouraged worshipers who make the pilgrimage to venerate the relics to learn more about the saint, who endured wounds symbolizing those that Christ suffered on the Cross and known as the stigmata, and follow his example.

St. Pio, who was born May 25, 1887, in Pietrelcina, Italy, and baptized Francesco Forgione, first expressed his desire to become a priest at age 10. His father, Grazio Forgione, emigrated in 1899 to the U.S., where he worked for several years to pay for the education Francesco needed to study for the priesthood.

He entered the Capuchin order at age 15, taking the name Pio, and was ordained a priest in 1910 at the age of 23.

Pio became known as a mystic with miraculous powers of healing and knowledge. He also bore the stigmata, the term the Catholic Church uses to describe wounds corresponding to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ. The wounds can appear on the forehead, hands, wrists and feet.

Pios stigmata emerged during World War I, after Pope Benedict XV asked Christians to pray for an end to the conflict. Pio had a vision in which Christ pierced his side. A few weeks later, on Sept. 20, 1918, Jesus appeared to him again, and he received the full stigmata.

Pope John Paul II canonized Pio in 2002.

The event has a connection to many other important milestones in the La Crosse Diocese, according to diocesan officials. The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, who remain headquartered in La Crosse, and the Third Order of St. Francis, ministered extensively in the area during the early days of the diocese.

Capuchin Friars, the same community that Pio belonged to, also served in the diocese for many years, according to diocesan records.

Relics are physical objects associated with a saint or candidate for sainthood  part of the persons body or something the person contacted, according to Catholic Church tradition.

Relics are not to be worshiped but rather treated with religious respect, according to the church. Touching or praying in the presence of such an object is said to help a faithful individual focus on the saints life and virtues so the saints prayers or intercession with God will draw the individual closer to the deity, the church maintains.
A fortnight ago BBC Good Food released the results of its fourth annual summer survey in which it revealed the relationship between British consumers and food; of the 5,000 adults asked, two thirds of Londoners said they had tried Mexican dishes, while the cuisine was voted most popular.

Certainly tacos, quesadillas, chipotle and guacamole are considered firm staples in the British food vocabulary, but in London, where the last couple of years have been a treat for Londoners in terms of either the increasing number of Mexican restaurants that have sprung up or chefs cooking with the countrys native ingredients, our understanding of the cuisine has finally been given an update.

Following Kickstarter funds raised by fans of the former restaurant Santo Remedio Edson and Natalie Diaz-Fuentes were finally able to re-open near London Bridge last week, while Mexican celebrity chef Martha Otiz launched Ella Canta on Park Lane. On the back of the success of their first restaurant, former street food traders Breddos Tacos recently announced they will be opening a second, in Soho, while El Pastor, which launched last December on the edge of Borough Market is still generating column inches. Top that with chef James Lowe from Lyle's restaurant in Shoreditch, who in February invited Daniela Soto-Innes, the talented Mexican-born head chef of Cosme restaurant in New York, to explore some of her favourite flavours, including corn and beans, with him. 2017 also marks 10 years since Wahaca co-founders Thomasina Miers and Mark Selby opened the first of their 20 UK outlets.

Now all of this is fine and dandy for the restaurant scene, but has the popularity for eating a wider variety of Mexican dishes also spread to our home kitchens?

Dodie Miller is a woman in the unique position of being both a UK supplier and seller of Mexican ingredients - she has been running her online business Cool Chile Co since 1993 - and having her own Mexican restaurant in London (she opened the popular Mexican dining room Taqueria, in Westbourne Grove, in 2005).

She says: As a supplier of dried chillies and a producer of corn tortillas and sauces, we see trends within both the catering and retail industries; as a restaurant we see how the customer has changed in their appreciation and knowledge of Mexican food on offer in London today.

In short, shes learnt a thing or two over 24 years of trading, so I decided to explore further:

What was the reputation of Mexican food like in London when you founded Cool Chile in 1993?

Achiote pork

It had a bad reputation and there was a general lack of appreciation for the cuisine. However, it was an exciting time for food here when we were discovering forgotten varieties of produce and mixing cuisines with British flare so it seemed like the perfect time to import (mostly never seen or heard of) Mexican dried chillies, with all their different flavour nuances, for British cooks to add to their spice cupboards. We also gave recipe ideas to lots of food writers such as Nigel Slater, Joanna Blythman, Derek Cooper and Sybil Kapoor, and shared ideas with chefs that we knew including Allegra McEvedy, Ross Burden, Henry Harris and any one else that would listen!

Later, when we opened the restaurant, there was a buzz in the air, a tang of possibility and excitement of something new, a rush to get your ideas out there and show people your interpretation of Mexican food.

12 years on from opening Taqueria, and 10 years on from Wahaca opening, has appreciation for Mexican food changed here?

People are much more familiar with Mexican dishes. Al pastor, quesadillas, tinga, pibil, mole, carnitas, barbacoa, chipotle, ancho are part of our vocabulary now. Some people call a tortilla a taco, which is like calling bread a sandwich - a tortilla is not a taco until you make it into one, the same way tortilla chips are not nachos. But this shows how popular these dishes are, when people see the key ingredient they see the dish. People now are au fait with eating a taco with their hands, and understand that Mexican-style tacos are generally small and not crispy.

Has the main shift come from people travelling there?

Chillies

People are certainly going to Mexico to travel, intent on eating lots of thrilling Mexican food. I think whats inspired people are the cultural aspects - festivals like Day of the Dead, and then the art, the music, and the clothing, which are all fascinating. Chocolate also comes from there, which has been a draw. Its so visual, and you can watch people making street food, and be quite inspired by that. The only trouble with that is that they make it look so easy - women might be patting out corn tortillas with a mobile phone tucked under their ear and a baby balancing on one hip. But its not easy!

In terms of home cooking here, have you found that people want to cook Mexican food authentically or mix it with British stuff?

At home I think people are doing their own thing. A lot is shared and recommended on social media, for example - so people will see something, decide it looks tasty, then go and put their own spin on it. Whats also obvious is that theyre taking ingredients that they can get readily and easily, and putting a Mexican twist on them. Thats so satisfying, and what its all about. So you might pick up some corn tortillas from us, which is a great place to start. Then you might try the chipotle and adobo because those smoky flavours are now universal. People are also cooking a lot of fresh stuff - little stews, salads, salsas - things that might go with their everyday food. A lot of vegans buy from us and might add flavour to vegetables with dried chillies, or make little tacos, and you dont need a lot of meat. Really there are different levels of cooking, as there are lots of people getting the kind of ingredients that indicate that theyre making time to cook quite sophisticated stuff.

Mexican oregano

Do you see Mexican cooking as easy or difficult?

I think Mexican food is really labour intensive, on a par with French food, what with the roasting and the toasting and the soaking, the pureeing, and the searing of sauces and letting them cook until the fat comes up to the top. The perception of Mexican food is that people dont want to pay a lot for it in a restaurant situation, yet in Mexico you might see a lot of cooks doing different stages, which doesnt mean its a huge restaurant, just that the layers of cooking require lots of different hands. If restaurants in the UK, where labour is more expensive, were to do that kind of style, obviously the cost of it would be quite hefty. So I think this is where people will do this kind of cooking at home - lots of our customers will put a weekend aside to make some more complicated Mexican dishes. Visually its very satisfying, because the different dried chillies have amazing colours - bright reds to earthy brown or almost black or mahogany colours. So theres a visual pleasure, and there are also the aromas that come out from, say, from the toasting of the chillies.

What would you suggest someone less confident with Mexican cooking could start off with?

Tortillas

You cant go wrong with a quesadilla because everybody loves melted cheese, and you make it your own by putting different things in it. Its toasting a corn tortilla, putting cheese on the inside as well as garlicky mushrooms, some chorizo, some leftover roast chicken, or avocado or a salsa or anything. You could also make a little salsa to go with it by chopping up some cherry tomatoes with a little bit of red onion or sweet crunchy onion and some green chilli, salt and a squeeze of lime. Thats traditionally very Mexican and really tasty and very easy.

Finally, what would you suggest someone very familiar with Mexican cooking could experiment with?

Making a mole poblano is an interesting balancing act because it is about toasting things but not taking that too far. Mexicans put a bit of chocolate in it, which is a seasoning rather than a chocolate sauce, which I think people here understand now. But there are about seven different moles, and not all with chocolate - my favourite is mole mancha manteles which means tablecloth stainer, and it has pineapples, sweet potato and ancho peppers, so its a bright red colour, has all that fruitiness and still takes a bit of time to cook.

For more information about Cool Chile Co, visit coolchile.co.uk
There are more unmarried people in the US than married, which is sometimes presented as problematic.



But research shows that we are not living in a society of lonely narcissists.



In fact, a number of studies find that being single can actually contribute your success in life.

When my mother was my age, she told me, if you were a single woman filling out official documents, you would have to mark yourself down as a "spinster."

Really. That was the legal term for an unmarried woman in England until very recently. Spinster.

The word certainly doesn't inspire much optimism in a single woman's prospects.

Things have changed quite a bit since then.

9 break up signs you should know 1 /12 9 break up signs you should know Youre arguing all the time You try and try, but you keep fighting over the same things. Or one big thing. Either way, you never resolve it so the arguing continues. If you cant get past your problems, then maybe its time to part ways before things get worse. Copyright (c) 2015 Rex Features. No use without permission. You dont want to make sacrifices Compromise is a major part of being in a relationship, but if youre growing resentful about the amount of time, effort and money youre putting into a relationship, chances are youre not invested in the long-haul. If a night out with friends consistently takes priority over spending the weekend at your partners parents house, it might be a sign that youre yearning for your independence. Copyright (c) 2015 Rex Features. No use without permission. You dont make time for each other anymore In the early stages of the relationship youd message each other all the time. Now you can barely be bothered to text them back, let alone spare some time for a call. If youve reached the point where youre actively ignoring their attempts to contact you, its time to have the talk. Copyright (c) 2013 Rex Features. No use without permission. The reasons to stay together are trivial Hes financially stable. Shes good at cooking. These might be nice additions to a relationship, but they shouldnt be the reason why you're still together. The same applies to the I'm scared I wont meet anyone else excuse. Copyright (c) 2016 Rex Features. No use without permission. Everything your partner does bothers you Remember how you used to find their strange laugh endearing? Or his stubborn nature cute? Now you they just drive to despair. Copyright (c) 2015 Rex Features. No use without permission. Youve stopped having sex Theres no normal to the amount of sex you should be having, but theres a difference between cooling down after the initial honeymoon period, and cooling off all together. If youve swapped orgasms for a DVD box set of Downton Abbey, it might be time to reassess. Copyright (c) 2013 Rex Features. No use without permission. You want different things Kids. Jobs. Mortgages. These are big decisions to make as a couple that will only work if both of your lives are heading towards the same goal. Perhaps you want to travel for a year, or take an opportunity abroad? Before you go any further, make sure youre both on the same path. Otherwise, it might mean its time to move on. Copyright (c) 2015 Rex Features. No use without permission. The people closest to you express concern Youre friends, family and co-workers have an objective view of your relationship. If several people sound the alarm about how your relationship is negatively affecting you, its time to listen up. Copyright (c) 2015 Rex Features. No use without permission. Youre thinking about what else might be out there It used to be that you wanted to spend every night and waking moment together, but now youre daydreaming about bachelorhood, romanticising past relationships or even making contact with old flames. Either way, you already have one foot out of the door. Copyright (c) 2016 Rex Features. No use without permission.

In the US, people are getting hitched less often than they once did, and young Americans are putting off marriage more than ever before.

In 1962, half of 21-year-olds and 90% of 30-year-olds had been married at least once. In 2014, only 8% of 21-year-olds and 55% of 30-year-olds had been married.

Single Americans are now the majority.

But that doesn't mean that the single life isn't still wrapped in stigma.

As New York University sociologist Eric Klinenberg writes in his book, "Going Solo," when discussed publicly, the rise of living alone is often presented as an unmitigated social problem and a sign of diminished public life.

Of course, not everybody thinks this way.

"For decades social scientists have been worrying that our social connections are fraying, that we've become a society of lonely narcissists," Klinenberg tells The New York Times. "I'm not convinced."

And neither are a number of researchers. These studies begin to unpack the question of how being single can contribute your success in life:

Single people tend to be more social

(Shutterstock ) / Shutterstock

Research suggests that, compared to married people, Americans who have always been single are more likely to support and stay in touch with their family and are more likely to help, encourage, and socialise with friends and neighbours.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Time Use Survey, single Americans spend on average 12 minutes a day staying in touch with other people by calling, emailing, or mailing them. Married people spend on average 7.8 minutes a day keeping in touch.

Klinenberg explains that, despite extraordinary external pressure that can lead to self-doubt, being single doesn't condemn someone to a life of feeling lonely or isolated.

"On the contrary, the evidence suggests that people who live alone compensate by becoming more socially active than those who live with others, and that cities with high numbers of singletons enjoy a thriving public culture," he writes.

Single people tend to have more time to themselves

Shutterstock / fizkes

Klinenberg also believes that, in the age of expanding digital media and growing connectedness, being single offers a clear advantage: more restorative solitude.

More alone time helps people discover who they are and what gives their life meaning and purpose, he explains.

"Living alone helps us pursue sacred modern values  individual freedom, personal control, and self-realisation  whose significance endures from adolescence to our final days," Klinenberg writes.

Single people tend to spend more time on leisure

Getty Images/Caiaimage

Whether conducted in solitude or with other people, singles tend to spend more time on overall leisure activities than married people.

According to the BLS, single people spend on average 5.56 hours a day on overall leisure activities, compared to married people, who spend an average 4.87 hours a day on leisure.

Broken down even further, single people spend on average about three minutes more a day participating in sports, exercise, and recreation than married people, about 16 minutes more a day watching TV, and about 15 minutes more a day playing games and on leisurely computer use.

Single people report experiencing more personal growth

Getty Images

As Business Insider's Erin Brodwin previously reported, in a study of 1,000 single people and 3,000 married people, single people were more likely to report feeling that their life has been a continuous process of learning, changing, and growth and that they think it is important to have new experiences that challenge how you think about yourself and the world.

Single people have fewer legal liabilities

Getty Images

As LearnVest has reported, marrying someone makes you legally responsible for their financial missteps, whether that means assuming equal responsibility for their debt ("You owe how much in student-loan debt?!") or becoming a part of lawsuits filed against them.

Single people tend to have less credit card debt

AP

As INSIDER's Kristin Salaky previously reported, a Debt.com study found single people are less likely to have credit card debt compared to married couples with or without children.

Being single results in a pay premium for women

The new banknote features author Jane Austen and will show up in people's wallets and purses over the coming days. / PA

A recent study conducted by W. Bradford Wilcox, director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia, and Robert Lerman, an economics professor at American University, suggests that women see bigger salaries when they're single compared to their married counterparts.

While the study authors did not consider these findings statistically significant, single women between 28 and 30 years old earn $1,349 more per year in individual income compared to their married counterparts. And single women between 44 and 46 years old make $1,465 more than married women of the same age range.

Single men tend to work fewer hours than married men

Shutterstock

The same study authors also found that single men between 28 and 30 work 441 fewer hours outside the home per year than do their married peers, while men between 44 and 46 work 403 fewer hours if they are single.

Single people tend to exercise more

Getty Images/Blend Images

Researchers from the University of Maryland found that men and women between the ages of 18 and 64 who had never been married tended to exercise more each week than those who were either married or divorced.

Another study found that married men were 25% more likely to be overweight or obese compared to single men.

Single men tend to be more generous

PA

In another study highlighted by Brodwin, men gave an average of $1,875 more to friends when they were never married compared to when they were married.

Single people tend to sleep better

Shutterstock / Africa Studio

Getting a good night's sleep is hugely important  and it's much easier to achieve if you're sleeping alone.

When we spoke to sleep advocate and Thrive Global founder Arianna Huffington last year, she told Business Insider, "There is nothing sacred about always sleeping together. This is an American romantic delusion."

But old habits die hard.

As Salaky reported, a survey by Amerisleep found that single people get the most sleep  an average of 7.13 hours a night  compared to people in relationships, widowers, engaged folks, married folks, divorcees, and separated people.
T attooed, with long hair and naked barring a pareo loincloth, Teuai Lenoir looks every bit the Polynesian warrior. Our 4x4 excursion into the mountainous Papenoo Valley to explore forests and waterfalls demonstrates a wilder side to Tahiti beyond its reputation for luxurious stilt villas and five-star cruises.

A current marketing campaign for Tahiti and her fellow French Polynesian islands encourages visitors to embrace this South Pacific paradises mana.

This ancient philosophy relates to the inner-power Polynesians feel through pagan ancestry and bounteous nature. Throughout 10 days of island hopping, I hoped to experience mana myself by connecting with local culture to explore a pre-Christian history where human sacrifices were once de rigueur.

My mana comes from the rivers, trees and my tattoos, explains Teuai. Its a strong energy and feeling that your ancestors are with you.

He says 19th-century missionaries destroyed their ancient customs and forbade dancing and tattooing, which originates in Polynesia. Teuais body is adorned with symbols of his mana: birds, waves and canoes, all inked traditionally (prepare to wince) by sharpened seashells and sharks teeth.

My accommodation on Tahiti, French Polynesias largest island, oozes mana. Marc and Rita Dauphins coastal hideaway at Teahupoo can only be reached by boat. Their six bungalows (with no TV or internet) have wide patio doors and overlook a coconut-fringed coral lagoon. Welcome to Tahiti 20 years ago, says Rita, wearing a white tiare flower tucked above her ear.

Over two days I connect with natural Tahiti by snorkelling corals shaped like brains and hiking into forests dominated by mape trees with giant buttress roots. But its the mouthwatering traditional maa cuisine that affirms Polynesians bond with Mother Nature.

From November to April we call this season Matarii i Nia (abundance), when the mana is strong, says Rita. Marcs poisson cru (locally caught raw tuna seasoned with lemon juice and coconut milk) is divine; their fresh produce is homegrown or naturally wild, from free-range chickens and huge avocados to juicy mangoes and breadfruit that is delicious fried as chips.

French Polynesias strongest mana, however, resides in its remoter archipelagos such as the Marquises Islands. I fly east to the island of Hiva Oa, marvelling at the vivacity of the Pacifics blueness below, where Polo mint-shaped atolls enclose turquoise lagoons.

Such rich colours were mana to Paul Gauguins troubled soul on Hiva Oa, where the post-impressionist lived and painted until his death in 1903.

I browse the Gauguin Museum in Atuona, which features reproductions of his abundant portraits of voluptuous Polynesian women, but Im more amused by a local anecdote. Apparently the penniless Gauguin offered his artwork in lieu of payment to shopkeepers  but they mostly burnt them after he died, believing them to be worthless.

Next morning the unlikely named Pifa OConnor (his ancestors fled Irelands potato famine) drives me along a spectacular coastline where fingers of lava-flows trap chocolate sand beaches. At one vertiginous sea-cliff, human sacrifices were sent plummeting to the afterlife as late as the 19th century. The mana I sense is strong, Pifa says. But the sacrifices and cannibalism my ancestors practised wasnt cool.

Such goings-on occurred at a site at Puamau. These places are called maae  this one has centuries-old terraces hosting stone tiki, phallus-shaped representations of the original Polynesians. Its rare to see five standing in situ.

Stone tiki

Pifa doesnt doubt the tikis aura. One was removed from an outer island to a museum in Tahiti and within a month everyone who touched it died, he says. On Nuku Hiva, a short flight by 17-seater Cessna, I encounter similar supernatural shenanigans. I hired a Tahitian lady to work for me, says 74-year-old Californian Rose Corser, who opened a museum after arriving by yacht in 1972. But she left after two days saying Nuku Hivas mana was too strong for her.

Roses museum is in Taiohae, where most of the islands 3,000 inhabitants live. Her artefacts support Nuku Hivas reputation for fearsome warriors, including a sharpened stone used for removing enemy heads. I stay at Pension Kokuu, a three-room homestay offering the experience of living and eating with a Polynesian family. The owner, Al-vane, exudes a strong mana. Thickset and bald, he looks slightly Marlon Brando, although more Colonel Kurtz than Streetcar. He walks barefoot to feel the earths energy and when preparing a local speciality of goat in coconut sauce rips off his shirt to demonstrate a Haka in his kitchen.

The top 25 cheapest city breaks in Europe 1 /33 The top 25 cheapest city breaks in Europe Bratislava, Slovakia Typical price per night: 36 Shutterstock Athens, Greece Typical price per night: 36 Milos Bicanski/Getty Images Vilnius, Lithuania Typical price per night: 35 Maciej Lulko/Flickr Istanbul, Turkey Typical price per night: 27 Chris McGrath/Getty Images Belgrade, Serbia Typical price per night: 27 Shutterstock Wrocaw, Poland Typical price per night: 32 Janek SkarzynskiFP/Getty Images Toulouse, France Typical price per night: 36.50 Rob DeGraff/Flickr Ljubljana, Slovenia Typical price per night: 36.50 Pedro Szekely/Flickr Thessaloniki, Greece Typical price per night: 28 Shutterstock Zadar, Croatia Typical price per night: 36.50 Min Zhou/Flickr Riga, Latvia Typical price per night: 36.50 AFP/Getty Images Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria Typical price per night: 33 Shutterstock Sofia, Bulgaria Typical price per night: 28 Dennis Jarvis/Flickr Tbilisi, Georgia Typical price per night: 24 Shutterstock Nantes, France Typical price per night: 38 AFP/Getty Images Palermo, Sicily Typical price per night: 36.50 Shutterstock Budapest, Hungary Typical price per night: 36 GLars Baron/Getty Images Catania, Sicily Typical price per night: 35 Carlos Bustamante Restrepo/Flickr Leipzig, Germany Typical price per night: 32.50 Shutterstock Krakow, Poland Typical price per night: 32 Jan Kucharzyk/Getty Images Zagreb, Croatia Typical price per night: 32 Shutterstock Saint Petersburg, Russia Typical price per night: 28.50 Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Bucharest, Romania Typical price per night: 28 Shutterstock Warsaw, Poland Typical price per night: 32 Shutterstock Kiev, Ukraine Typical price per night: 28.50 Marco Verch/Flickr

Another haunting maae at Kamuihei is almost lost amid rainforest. The islands most sacred tree, a 600-year-old banyan with tangled deadlocked vines, shades petroglyphs engraved with turtles. The turtles acted as messengers to a Polynesian ocean paradise called Havaiki. My guide wont touch them  too powerful. Im inclined to agree.

Details: Tahiti

Air Tahiti Nui (airtahitinui.co.uk) flies to Tahiti via Paris from 1,500 return. Air Tahiti (airtahiti.com) offers internal flights. Pension Reva Teahupoo (reva-teahupoo.org) offers two-person bungalows for 74. Pension Kokuu (pensionkokuu.marquises.sitew.com) has doubles from 47pp, half-board. Visit tahiti-tourisme.co.uk for more information.
C CTV footage has emerged of the moment the Parsons Green attack suspect may have hauled a homemade bomb past unwary commuters as he headed to plant the homemade device on a packed Tube train.

The video, obtained from a CCTV camera outside a pizzeria in Sunbury, shows a man in a grey hoodie calmly walking with a distinctive white Lidl carrier bag towards a nearby train station.

Filmed outside the Ecco La Vera pizzeria, in Vicarage Road, the restaurant is just a few minutes walk from the foster home of the 18-year-old suspected of planting an explosive device on a Tube train.

The improvised explosive device which went off at Parsons Green Underground station appeared to be inside a bucket within the same type of bag.

Parsons Green explosion incident on the Tube - In pictures 1 /36 Parsons Green explosion incident on the Tube - In pictures Images emerged on social media of flames spilling from a bucket which appeared to be on the train Kett News Emergency services on the platform at Parsons Green Metro An injured woman is assisted by a police officer close to Parsons Green station in west London after an explosion on a packed London Underground train Dominic Lipinski/PA Armed police stand by a cordon outside Parsons Green tube station Kevin Coombs/Reuters Police, fire and ambulance crews descended on the station Cllr Daniel Holden An injured woman is comforted outside the station Reuters Bomb disposal and armed police unitson the scene at Parsons Green Jeremy Selwyn Personal belonglongs and a bucket with an item on fire inside it, are seen on the floor of an underground train carriage at Parsons Green station Sylvian Pennec/Reuters Police with a woman after the incident at Parsons Green Metro Nick Crowley shows his charred forehead following an explosion whilst on the Tube Nick Crowley Armed British police officers walk through the carriage of a London underground tube carriage at Parsons Green underground tube station in west London AFP/Getty Images Tube carriage and emergency services on the tracks after explosion Sky News Police and emergency services at Parsons Green Station following reports of an explosion on a tube train. Kerry Davies/Daily Mail An injured woman is led away after an incident at Parsons Green underground station in London Reuters Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley speaks to the media outside New Scotland Yard, London, after a terrorist incident was declared following a blast which sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A forensics officer on the platform at Parsons Green station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident following a blast which sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A tube train at Parsons Green station in west London after Scotland Yard declared a terrorist incident following a blast sent a "fireball" and a "wall of flame" through a packed London Underground train PA A police officer and a sniffer dog pictured near Parsons Green tube station Reuters View of emergency services on the tracks at Parsons Green Sky News Commuters were left traumatised by the incident Reuters Bomb disposal units rushed to the scene Reuters Crowds gather outside Parsons Green tube station AFP/Getty Images A woman reacts outside Parsons Green tube station Reuters Emergency services tend to panicked commuters outside Parsons Green Tube station Emma (Twitter) Images emerged of a bucket alight reportedly on the District Line train @RRigs Fire crews, police and ambulance crews rushed to the scene Richard Aylmer-Hall/PA Police vehicles line the street near Parsons Green tube station Reuters

The road leads straight to Sunbury train station, with footage taken from CCTV cameras across the road showing him walking past unsuspecting passers-by.

In one clip  obtained by the Sun  he can be seen walking past an elderly man at a bus stop and bystanders.

The man can be seen carrying the bag towards Sunbury Train Station in the CCTV footage / Ecco La Vera

The man in the CCTV footage is believed to have passed the pizzeria just after 7am on Friday, some 80 minutes before the device went off at the District Line station.

Thirty people were injured in the explosion on Friday, with Scotland Yard confirming it is being treated as a terrorist incident.

The time shown on the footage is 7.30am, but it is understood to be about 30 minutes fast.

Footage obtained by ITV News appears to show the same man leaving his nearby foster home while video obtained by the Sun apparently captures him a little further down Vicarage Road.

An 18-year-old Iraqi refugee, who is believed to have planted the device on a Tube train, and a 21-year-old from Syria, named as Yahyah Farroukh, have both been arrested under the Terrorism Act following Fridays bombing.

Both are believed to have spent time being fostered by Penelope and Ronald Jones, aged 71 and 88 respectively, who previously received MBEs for services to children and families.

The Met is also probing whether the two men met each other abroad, either in Calais or elsewhere on the migrant route to Britain - or in the extremist heartlands of Syria and Iraq.

Police are continuing the question the two suspects, who are both being held in custody.

A Met spokesman said: "An 18-year-old man was arrested by Kent Police in the port area of Dover at approximately 7:50am under section 41 of the Terrorism Act. A warrant for his further detention has been granted by Westminster Magistrates' Court until September 23.

"A 21-year-old was arrested in Hounslow at 11:50pm under section 41 of the Terrorism Act. A warrant for his further detention has been granted by Westminster Magistrates' Court until September, 21.

"They both remain in custody at a south London police station."
F ormer England captain Wayne Rooney arrived at court this morning to face a drink driving charge without wife Coleen by his side.

The Everton and ex-Manchester United striker was flanked by security guards and accompanied by his agent as he was whisked past photographers outside Stockport magistrates court.

Rooney's marriage is reportedly hanging in the balance after his late-night arrest on September 1.

He is accused of being over the limit while driving office worker Laura Simpson home from a night out at the trendy Bubble Room bar in Alderley Edge.

Wayne Rooney arrives at court / Anthony Devlin/Getty Images

Rooney's wife Coleen, who is pregnant with his fourth child, was on holiday in Mallorca at the time of his arrest.

She has since been pictured without her 250,000 wedding ring and 200,000 engagement ring on, as rumours spread that their nine-year marriage is in peril.

Thirteen Greater Manchester police officers were deployed as Rooney, 31, who is England's all time record scorer and has 119 caps, arrived at court just after 9.30am.

His agent Paul Stretford was by his side with two security guards, but his wife was not present.

It is said Rooney was drink driving when he was pulled over in Ms Simpson's VW Beetle shortly after 2am in Altringham Road, Wilmslow.

He was detained by police and questioned, before being released on bail ahead of today's court hearing.

Everton boss Ronald Koeman admitted Rooney faces disciplinary action over the incident but picked him for yesterday's 4-0 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Rooney, who lives in Prestbury, Greater Manchester, is due to enter a plea to the drink drive charge later today in front of District Judge John Temperley.
A patient who died when London Ambulance Services computer system crashed on New Years Day was a kind-hearted family man who loved life, the Standard can reveal.

Victor Bede, 53, died after collapsing on the street in the early hours of January 1. His identity was not disclosed.

Someone called an ambulance but it took 48 minutes to arrive due to the extent of the pressure on call handlers and emergency crews on their busiest night of the year.

An inquest at Westminster coroners court tomorrow will seek to establish how Mr Bede, who lived in Edgware Road, died.

At the time of the first emergency call he was breathing and conscious. He is thought to have collapsed in Westbourne Grove.

It is not known whether Mr Bede would have survived if an ambulance had been dispatched immediately when the call was made.

The system went down at 12.30am and did not come fully back online until 5.15am. A total of 2,810 calls received a delayed response. A major incident was declared.

Call handlers were forced to write details using pen and paper and pass messages to crews via radio.

Crews had to rely on A-Z maps as the satnav system in the ambulances also failed.

Health campaigners hope the coroner, Dr Shirley Radcliffe, will investigate how the LASs 999 system was able to fail at such a crucial time  and whether there had been a failure to heed warnings from other LAS computer crashes over the preceding two years.

An internal investigation, published in June, found that an LAS call handler had remained on the line to monitor Mr Bedes condition with the caller. The emergency was upgraded when he deteriorated. The ambulance then arrived within 12 minutes.

The review found the system crashed because its waste basket system was overloaded. LASs new chief executive Garrett Emmerson, not in post at the time, admitted the report exposed some significant shortcomings in our IT processes and governance.

Mr Bede, who was single and not in work, was described as someone who only saw good in people and renowned for incredible acts of kindness to homeless people, often giving them money for a meal or a haircut.

His funeral service, at St Michaels Catholic church in Mitcham, was told of his love for his niece and nephew and his fondness for making an entrance.

He was said to abhor violence but love life... though sometimes life didnt return that love. The Crystal Palace fan was said by his brother, Rob Reason, to have been a formidable chess player, sportsman and gambler.

The 999 system crashed again in April when it could not be rebooted for 13 hours after planned maintenance. There had been 10 other crashes since December 2013. LAS insists the system is now fit for purpose and cannot crash in a similar manner again.

Malcolm Alexander, chairman of the LAS Patients Forum, said: We would like the inquest to consider whether there was appropriate governance of the computer system at a crucial time in the year.

"Its a complete mystery to us why a system should have collapsed in this way without proper support from the organisation in the preceding period to make sure this didnt happen at a critical time. Bearing in mind there had been a number of outages in the previous two years, there was a weakness in the system.

London Ambulance Service said: We are very sorry that it took us longer to reach Mr Bede than it should have and wed like to again extend our condolences to his family.

We have met Mr Bedes family and explained to them what happened but it would not be right to speculate on the outcome of the Coroners verdict.
M ore than 100 firefighters were tackling a huge blaze at a warehouse in north London.

Emergency services raced to the scene in White Hart Lane, Tottenham, on Monday night.

By 10.30pm, London Fire Brigade said a team of 120 firefighters and 20 fire engines were at the scene.

Dramatic footage emerged on social media of smoke billowing into the sky while flames ravaged the building.

The warehouse is reported to be roughly a mile away from Tottenham Hotspur's home ground White Hart Lane, which is currently being redeveloped.

A spokesman for LFB said fire crews were alerted to the blaze, including a warehouse and storage units alight, at about 8.20pm.

Station manager Sam Kazmanli said: This is a large fire and has produced a lot of smoke in the air. As a precaution, local residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed.

The blaze broke out at about 9pm.

Thick black smoke could be seen pouring into the sky from up to three miles away.

Witnesses, who posted videos and images from the scene on social media, described the fire as "huge" and "absolutely terrifying".

Nico Hogg tweeted: "That fire looks huge. Two miles away across #Tottenham."

Rex Fonseca said: "Huge fire near white heart lane, @tottenham @fire what is happening there?"

Another Twitter user, posting under the name Alex C, described the fire as "absolutely terrifying" and said that the warehouse appeared to have collapsed.

A warehouse and storage units have been ravaged by the fire / Gavin Black

Jake Waloschek posted on Twitter: "Fire on White Hart Lane, hopefully no-one injured. Seems to be storage units."

Firefighters from Tottenham, Hornsey, Edmonton and surrounding fire stations attended. The cause of the fire was not yet known, a LFB spokesman added.

MPS Haringey tweeted: "LFB dealing with a large fire on White Hart Lane N17, please avoid the area and use alternative routes."
D onald Trump made a beeline straight for Boris Johnson as the US President made his maiden appearance at the United Nations, calling for "truly bold reforms" of the organization.

The US President was seen in animated conversation with the Foreign Secretary as the pair met during a gathering at the UN, with the outspoken politicians warmly shaking hands before Mr Trump delivered his debut speech.

The visit of Mr Johnson comes amid a furious row within Theresa Mays Cabinet after he was branded a "backseat driver" for setting out his own vision for a hard Brexit.

His attempted takeover came just days before a major speech in which Mrs May is expected to offer compromise.

The pair were seen in animated conversation during their meeting in New York / REUTERS

Meanwhile, Mr Trump headed to New York amid strained relations with the UK over the bombing at Parsons Green.

Mrs May scolded the US President after he tweeted that the "loser" Tube bomber was already "in the sights of Scotland Yard"  sparking claims he had leaked UK intelligence.

The Prime Minister said: I never think it's helpful for anybody to speculate on what is an ongoing investigation.

Mr Trump greeted and shook hands with representatives of 120 countries during the UN gathering, but became engrossed in conversation with Johnson during a warm greeting.

Boris Johnson and Donald Trump shake hands as world leaders gathered for a UN summit / AP

The pair have met before, meeting at Trump Tower just before the business tycoon took office in January.

Speaking at the UN, Mr Trump used his first moments at the world body to urge it to reduce bureaucracy and costs while more clearly defining its mission around the world.

But while Mr Trump chastised the UN - an organisation he sharply criticised during his election campaign over its spiralling costs - he said the United States would "pledge to be partners in your work" in order to make the UN "a more effective force" for peace across the globe.

Mr Trump said: "In recent years, the United Nations has not reached its full potential due to bureaucracy and mismanagement."

In a rebuke over the UN's ballooning budget, he added: "We are not seeing the results in line with this investment."

The US leader pushed the UN to focus "more on people and less on bureaucracy" and to "not be beholden to ways of the past which were not working".

He also suggested that the United States is paying more than its fair share to keep the New York-based world body operational.
T he former director of the Vote Leave campaign has condemned the Governments handling of Brexit and said that triggering Article 50 was a historic, unforgivable blunder.

Dominic Cummings, one of the masterminds behind the infamous slogan claiming the UK sends the EU 350m a week, said the Governments approach to Brexit had been a shambles.

Mr Cummings, an ally to Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and Michael Gove during the EU referendum, accused the Government of triggering Article 50 without a plan and said it was like putting a gun in mouth and kaboom.

He claimed the Brexit Secretary David Davis and his team had listened to bullsh** legal advice and led the British people like lambs to the slaughter.

In a series of tweets posted on Monday, he said: Vote Leave said: do not commit to using A50 (Article 50). DD (David Davis) et al listened to bullsh** legal advice and led like lambs to slaughter by (Cabinet Secretary Jeremy) Heywood.

David Davis Talks About His Approach To Brexit

I said triggering A50 quickly without plan and legal preps for no deal would be like putting a gun in mouth and kaboom. DD chose to do exactly that.

The shambles now unfolding is a direct consequence of that historic unforgivable blunder.

Former Vote Leave campaign director Dominic Cummings (David Levenson) / David Levenson/Getty Images

His comments came after the Evening Standard revealed that the top official at the Department for Exiting the European Union was stepping down after a year in the job.

The decision of Oliver Robbins to move from Permanent Secretary at DExEU to a co-ordinating role at Downing Street in the middle of Brexit negotiations has plunged Theresa Mays Brexit plans into further disarray.

Mr Cummings added that at the next Cabinet meeting, all secretaries of state should demand a full briefing from Mr Davis and his team on their contingency plans if a Brexit deal is not reached.

Mr Cummings, a former adviser to Mr Gove when he was Education Secretary, then said: The sooner MPs realise where DD has driven them the sooner mitigation can begin.

In a previous series of tweets, the former Vote Leave campaign director called Mr Davis as thick as mince and lazy as a toad.

He also said leaving Europe could be an error, described the EU referendum as a dumb idea and said other options should have been tried out first before the vote was called.

As the leading strategist for Vote Leave, Mr Cummings coined the groups official slogan vote leave, take control. An official Vote Leave poster also claimed that Turkey (population 76million) is joining the EU.

Boris blasted over Brexit blueprint

He also came up with the campaign guaranteeing an extra 350m would be spent on the NHS every week from diverted EU spending. The claim was emblazoned across the side of the Vote Leave campaign bus.

Over the weekend, Mr Johnson had a 4,000 word article published in The Daily Telegraph which set down his personal demands for a hard Brexit and repeated the claim that Britain could gain control over 350 million a week gross contributions to Brussels.

The chairman of the UK Statistics Authority Sir David Norgrove accused Mr Johnson of a clear misuse of official figures.
L ondon joined leading global cities including New York and Los Angeles today to stand up against Donald Trumps rejection of the Paris climate change agreement.

The eight international cities - supported by the C40 climate group - are working together to turn the proposals into concrete action despite the US indicating it would pull out of the deal.

In thinly veiled criticism of the US President, Sadiq Khan warned the threat of climate change was something no leader can ignore while his New York counterpart Bill de Blasio added: No matter what President Trump thinks, we must act now.

Mr Trump announced the withdrawal from the deal in June, fulfilling a campaign pledge but leaving the US with only Syria and Nicaragua for company outside the global agreement.

The White House denied reports at the weekend that it was softening on leaving the Paris deal, however Secretary of State Rex Tillerson indicated the US was open to negotiations on staying in.

The global cities, which also include Boston, Durban, Melbourne, Mexico City and Paris, will share in-depth technical knowledge on how to reduce emissions and meet the goals of the Paris agreement.

Sadiq Khan has criticised the US president / Rex

The pilot will eventually roll out to all 91 member cities in the world.

Anne Hidalgo, Paris mayor and chair of the C40 group, said: The Paris Agreement is very clear on what needs to happen to tackle climate change. It is the responsibility of every political leader to determine what that means concretely for their nation, state or city.

Mr Khan said: The threat of climate change is something no world leader can ignore and it is vitally important we unite to help tackle this danger and protect our planet.

New Yorks Mr de Blasio added: We do not have the luxury of time when it comes to climate action. No matter what President Trump thinks, we must act now.
A frican leaders should be invited on State visits to the UK  but not Donald Trump because he is dangerous and has thrown into doubt Americas commitment to human rights, Sir Vince Cable argued today.

The Liberal Democrats leader branded the US president racist and misogynistic and urged Theresa May to withdraw the invitation for him to be hosted by the Queen on a trip to the UK with full pomp and circumstance.

Appearing on ITVs Good Morning Britain, he was pressed on which national leaders should be offered State visits rather than Mr Trump.

There are many democratic countries, interestingly in Africa where the whole quality of governance has risen, weve got large numbers of democratic countries, many former Commonwealth countries, many of our friends in Europe are all now governed by governments that are legitimate, which acknowledged human rights and which are friendly to this country, he said.

So there is plenty of scope for good State visits without having this particular one.

Vince Cable branded the US president racist and misogynistic / Jeremy Selwyn

His aides suggested State visits could be laid on for the leaders of Ghana and Botswana.

One said: We would raise human rights issues and make sure any trade deals dealt with poverty reduction and democracy strengthening.

Pressed on whether America was democratic and committed to human rights, the former Business Secretary added: It is democratic but the recognition of human rights I think one has to question. This is a president who has publicly endorsed torture.

Criticising Mrs May for offering Mr Trump a State visit so early in his presidency, Sir Vince added: It was a very bad miscalculation of the Prime Minister to put our trust, our national security, our trade interests into a special relationship with somebody who is completely volatile, unreliable and dangerous in the way that Trump is.

Speaking at the annual Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth, he said: If Trump comes there will be a major expression of public disquiet that we are honouring somebody who as [Lib Dem deputy leader] Jo Swinson said yesterday is racist, misogynist.

He believes the US president should instead be invited to Britain for businesslike negotiations with the Government but not honoured with a banquet at Buckingham Palace.
T heresa May has denied the UKs Brexit approach has been a shambles after the top official at the Department for Exiting the European Union moved to a role as her EU adviser.

The Evening Standard revealed on Monday that Oliver Robbins had decided to move from Permanent Secretary at DExEU to a co-ordinating role at Downing Street.

The Whitehall official has shifted from Brexit Secretary David Davis's department to the advisory position in the Cabinet Office, but will "continue to lead the official-side UK team" in negotiations.

His move comes in the middle of the UK's negotiations for exiting the EU and just over a year after he took up the job.

Theresa May and Justin Trudeau take part in a joint news conference / AP

It follows reports of personal differences between Mr Robbins and Mr Davis over the negotiations in Brussels.

Speaking during a trade visit to Canada, Mrs May was asked by a reporter if the change showed the Brexit negotiating structure had been a "bit of a shambles".

The PM replied: "No, not at all. What it is a sign of is that the negotiations are getting into a more detailed and more intense phase.

Oliver Robbins is to move from Permanent Secretary at DExEU to a co-ordinating role at Downing Street

"As a result of that I think it's right that Olly Robbins concentrates on that and obviously a different structure will be put in place in terms of the running of the management of the Department for Exiting the European Union and the permanent secretaryship there."

Mrs May was speaking during a press conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Her comments came after she issued a rebuke to Boris Johnson, who was in New York meeting world leaders at a United Nations summit, following his open challenge to her Brexit policy, insisting her government is driven from the front.

When asked by reporters if she was frustrated by his actions, she said: Boris is Boris. I'm clear that what the Government is doing and what the Cabinet is doing is that we... base our negotiations on the principles set out at Lancaster House."

She insisted: "This Government is driven from the front and we are all going to the same destination.

US President Donald Trump shakes hands with British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson as they meet at the United Nations / REUTERS

Her remarks will be seen as a slapdown for the Foreign Secretary, who was accused by Home Secretary Amber Rudd of trying to act as a "backseat driver" by releasing a 4,000-word essay setting out his personal demands for a hard Brexit before the PM delivers a crucial speech in Italy.

Mr Robbins move to the Cabinet Office may be seen as an attempt by the PM to take a more prominent role in shaping the talks, before her major Brexit speech on Friday in Florence.

Shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer questioned the wisdom of moving key individuals at a critical time in the process and claimed it "adds a whole new dimension to government's chaotic approach to Brexit", while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable labelled the change as a "sign of the chaos and division" within the minority administration.

Philip Rycroft has been appointed as Mr Robbins' replacement as permanent secretary at Mr Davis's Department for Exiting the European Union (DExEU).

Mr Robbins worked closely with Mrs May as second permanent secretary at the Home Office for a year during her tenure as home secretary.

Sources said he had been brought in to help set up DExEU and it now made sense for him to "focus solely on negotiations" rather than running the department.

A government spokesman said: "In order to strengthen cross-government co-ordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union, the Prime Minister has appointed Oliver Robbins as her EU adviser in the Cabinet Office, in addition to his role as EU sherpa.

Theresa May expects 'seamless' transition to trading with Canada post-Brexit

"He will continue to lead the official-side UK team in the negotiations, working closely with the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, and co-ordinate relations with the (European) Commission and member states."

Mr Robbins' departure from DExEU is the latest personnel change at the department, following the sacking of David Jones and the resignation of Lord Bridges from ministerial roles following the election.

At her meeting with Mr Trudeau in Ottawa, Mrs May said she expected a "seamless transition" to a new trading relationship between the UK and Canada.
T heresa May will today fly to Canada to lay the foundations for a post-Brexit trade deal amid a continuing furore over the Government's approach to EU withdrawal.

The Prime Minister was facing calls to sack Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, who was branded a "backseat driver" by a Cabinet colleague after setting out his own vision for a hard Brexit.

His attempted takeover came just days before a major speech in which Mrs May is expected to offer compromise.

A new trade deal between the EU and Canada is due to come into effect on September 21, eliminating 98 per cent of Canadian import duties, in what Downing Street describes as a "significant boon" for UK exporters.

Prime Minister: Theresa May / AP

But when Britain leaves the EU, it will fall out of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (Ceta), which was championed by the UK and took seven years to negotiate.

Mrs May hopes to use Ceta as a model for a new bilateral arrangement between Britain and Canada to be introduced "swiftly" after Brexit.

Under the terms of its EU membership, the UK cannot seal a free trade agreement with an outside country before its departure, though it remains unclear whether this will be possible during the "transition period" expected to last two or three years after the official date of Brexit in March 2019.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau / Reuters

The Prime Minister and her Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau are expected to agree the establishment of a new joint working group, the 13th established by the UK since last year's referendum.

The deal is set to prepare the ground for a bilateral deal based on Ceta soon after Brexit.

Speaking ahead of her visit, Mrs May said that Canada and the UK form a "powerful union" when they work together on priorities like free trade.

Theresa May has been put under pressure to sack Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson / PA

"My visit to Canada is not only about recognising our past but also looking ahead to our bright future," she said.

"We are both countries with ambitions to lead on the world stage and progressive values that underpin those ambitions, values including the importance of free trade, and respect for international law.

"When we come together and work as one to project our shared values on the world stage, we form a powerful union."

Mrs May's visit risks being overshadowed by the row over Mr Johnson's 4,000-word essay, in which he said Britain should make no payments for access to the European single market after Brexit, and made no mention of the transitional period which the Prime Minister is now thought to favour.

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

His intervention, which saw him revive the claim, branded "misleading" by the official statistician, that 350 million a week could be freed up for the NHS by Brexit, was widely interpreted as the first shot in a leadership bid.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd accused Johnson of "backseat driving", while Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson criticised him for releasing his comments the day after a terror attack in London.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable said Mrs May's credibility would be "reduced to zero" if she failed to sack the Foreign Secretary on Monday.

The UK-Canada bilateral trade relationship is worth 15.2 billion annually and Britain is the second-biggest destination for Canadian investment abroad, with 1.75 billion invested since March alone.

Mrs May said: "Canada and the United Kingdom have a long shared history.

"British and Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen and women have fought and died alongside each other in the pursuit of freedom, including at the Battle of Britain, where 23 brave Canadian servicemen lost their lives.

"We have developed the institutions of Westminster democracy, personal rights, and the common law. And we celebrate together our shared monarchy, and close ties of family and friendship."


T he top official at the Department for Exiting the European Union is stepping down after just over a year in the job, the Evening Standard has learned.

The decision of Oliver Robbins to move from Permanent Secretary at DExEU to a co-ordinating role at Downing Street in the middle of Brexit negotiations plunges Theresa Mays Brexit plans into further disarray.

It comes as two allies of Boris Johnson said the Foreign Secretary is prepared to walk out of the Cabinet if Mrs May bows to pressure for a soft Brexit.

One said: Brexit is his baby. He thinks to himself, whats the point if Brexit goes south? I think he feels he is in Government to get Brexit right.

The implied threat from the Johnson camp follows a hostile reaction from Cabinet rivals to his 4,000-word article setting down his personal demands for a hard Brexit, which most MPs saw as an attempt to box in Mrs May ahead of her planned speech in Florence on Friday. Home Secretary Amber Rudd accused Mr Johnson of trying to be a back-seat driver.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove backed Mr Johnson this morning by tweeting that Mr Johnson had been right to claim Britain could gain control over 350 million a week gross contributions to Brussels.

Mr Gove tweeted: Debate should be forward looking on how to make most of life outside EU - not refighting referendum.

The move of career civil servant Mr Robbins follows reports in the summer of a schism between him and David Davis, the Brexit Secretary who is the Cabinet minister in charge of DExEU.

Sir Keir Starmer, Labours shadow Brexit secretary, said it smacked of chaos.

He said: Moving key individuals at this critical time adds a whole new dimension to the governments chaotic approach to Brexit. Deep divisions in the Cabinet and a complete lack of leadership are putting the national interest at risk.

Government officials said Mr Robbins will still take part in next weeks fourth round of Brexit talks alongside Mr Davis, but working for the Prime Minister.

A Whitehall official told the Standard: Olly has always worried the Brexiteers as to where he is. There were comments going around that he was trying to slow things down. Ive heard it said that Olly Robbins is the man on top of all the detail, while DD does the showmanship.

Another source claimed that Mr Daviss officials do not believe it possible to deliver the sort of Brexit that he has pushed for, causing tensions.

It was reported in July that the civil servant, who is on close terms with Mrs May from when they were both at the Home Office, had annoyed Mr Davis by making decisions without him.

In Brussels, Mr Robbins is seen in Brussels as a good match for deputy chief Brexit negotiator Sabine Weyand, the sharp-witted German Commission official.

He has the respect of EU negotiators, who feel he has been doing his best, despite the political machinations in London, said one official close to the Brexit talks.

He is known among his counterparts in Europe for his depth of knowledge and good humour - though his casual attire prompted a rebuke from one UK official ahead of the August negotiating round, after he attempted to attend a meeting in shorts on a hot Brussels summer day.

A Government spokesman told the Standard: In order to strengthen cross Government co-ordination of the next phase of negotiations with the European Union, the Prime Minister has appointed Oliver Robbins as her EU Adviser in the Cabinet Office, in addition to his role as EU Sherpa.

He will continue to lead the official-side UK team in the negotiations, working closely with the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union [Mr Davis], and coordinate relations with the Commission and member states.

Philip Rycroft, currently Mr Robbinss deputy at DExEU will take over as Permanent Secretary.

The spokesman said Mr Davis remained principal of the negotiations, leading on exit-related legislation, domestic preparedness for exit and engagement with stakeholders in the UK, including the devolved administrations, and in the EU27 and beyond.
R yanair could be hit with a 17 million compensation bill after the airline infuriated thousands of customers by cancelling hundreds of flights.

Boss Michael O'Leary apologised to customers for cancelling 40-50 flights every day for the next six weeks due to a pilot shortage, which is set to leave thousands of holidaymakers stranded.

The budget airline also promised to release the details of the cancelled flights on its website over the next 24 hours amid growing pressure from angry passengers.

Amid the chaos, furious passengers have demanded clarity over the cancelled flights.

Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has apologised to customers / PA

Some customers said the airline was of treating them "appallingly" with and demanded it publishes a full list of the flights to be cancelled over the next six weeks.

The airline is now facing a huge pay out in compensation, estimated at 20 million euros - 17.7 million.

Mr O'Leary, the airline's chief executive, told a press conference on Monday: "Clearly there's a large reputational impact for which again I apologise. We will try to do better in future.

"In terms of lost profitability we think it will cost us something of the order of up to about five million euros (4.4 million) over the next six weeks and in terms of the EU261 compensation we think that will be something up to a maximum of 20 million euros but much depends on how many of the alternative flights our customers take up."

Customers of the budget airline have complained last-minute cancellations have left them out of pocket due to non-refundable accommodation costs, or with no choice but to book expensive alternative flights or transport.

Others said they had been left stranded in their holiday destination. Marketing officer for Ryanair Kenny Jacobs admitted on Sunday.

Ryanair said air traffic control delays and strikes, bad weather and a backlog of annual leave to be taken by pilots and cabin crew had led to punctuality falling to below 80% over the last two weeks.

A spokesman said this figure was "unacceptable" and the company has apologised to affected customers, who it said will be offered alternative flights or refunds.

The vast majority of UK cancellations affected Stansted. Some Dublin flights were also dropped.
A woman collapsed in court after failing to land half of her ex-boyfriends property empire.

Gillian Turner had claimed she was cheated out of a slice of the business by her ex-partner Michael Durant. She said he had also failed to honour a promise to marry her.

But Judge Alan Johns QC ruled that Mr Durant had never promised to cut her into his business empire, Lodge House Ltd.

The judge said it was hard to believe a deal would not have been put in writing.

Ms Turner, a receptionist, collapsed on to the desk at Central London county court after the judgment was given and needed first aid from court staff.

The judge had heard evidence of the former couples stormy relationship from the late Eighties to 2014. They had a son together and set up home in Cuffley, Hertfordshire, in 2004, the court was told.

Ms Turner claimed Mr Durant made the promise to hand over half his business if she invested her 200,000 life savings into their new home.

But Judge Johns rejected this, ruling that no such promise was made. He said the driven and ambitious Mr Durant was unlikely to have agreed to part with a portion of his business.

That there is no trace of the agreement in documents ... is particularly striking in circumstances where Ms Turner clearly did not trust Mr Durant, the judge said.

It is hard to believe, with that lack of trust, that she would have simply rested on his word to transfer the business without getting anything in writing.

In her evidence, Ms Turner admitted she had no idea of the true value of Mr Durants business empire, but believed it was worth millions.

She said Mr Durant did not initially invest in the house as he needed all his spare money for his property deals.

But Mr Durant told the court he was the sole breadwinner and had paid the 250,000 mortgage.

Ms Turner has been ordered to pay the legal costs of the case, which will run into tens of thousands of pounds.
P olice have shot and killed an LGBT student activist in the US state of Georgia.

Scout Schultz was shot at a campus in Atlanta after officers received a call about a person with a knife and a gun late on Saturday, officials said.

Footage emerged that appeared to show the 21-year-old refusing to obey repeated police demands to drop a knife.

In a video filmed by fellow students at the Georgia Institute of Technology, she can be heard saying "Shoot me!" while continuing to advance on the officers before one of them opens fire.

Loading....

Investigators said Schultz, who identified as neither male nor female, did not appear to be holding a gun - despite what had initially been reported to police.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said the computer engineering student later died in hospital.

Her mother said the activist, who was the president of the Pride Alliance at Georgia Tech, had numerous medical issues, suffered from depression and had attempted suicide two years ago.

She told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: "Why didn't they use some nonlethal force, like pepper spray or Tasers?
A London-bound plane has been held on the tarmac and surrounded by police at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris due to a security threat.

Passengers on the British Airways flight were reportedly escorted from it before take-off in the French capital on Sunday morning.

British traveller James Anderson said he and other passengers were waiting on the plane for around an hour before being informed by the pilot of a direct security threat.

The 20-year-old wrote on Twitter: On British Airways flight BA0303, currently being held on tarmac at Paris due to security threat, surrounded by police and fire vehicles.

Apparently an individual has made a direct threat to this aircraft. We will all be led off the aircraft & baggage searched in due course.

Everybodys been individually searched by armed officers and given all clear. Now hold luggage being searched by dogs.

The flight eventually took off at around 11am BST.

The flight was due to depart the airport at 7.25am (6.25am BST) but security checks were still being carried out three hours later.

A British Airways spokesperson told the Standard: The safety and security of our customers and crew is always our top priority.

Additional security checks are being carried out as a precaution.

We would never operate a flight unless it is safe to do so.
A Londoner has been praised for handing in a huge wad of cash to the police in Venice after stumbling across a packet containing 2,700 euros (2,400).

The woman, 67, who has not been named, could have pocketed the surprise windfall but handed the money in to the nearest police station instead.

She found the money in a plastic bag near the Rio dei Tre Ponto canal. Local media reports she was on holiday in the Italian city.

Police told Italian media the money might be linked to criminal activity.

According to local news website La Nuova di Venezia, she spotted the cash at around 21:00 (19:00 GMT) on Saturday night.

The tourist was applauded by La Nuova di Venezia for her honesty and fairness. It reported that the woman, who is a mother of a police officer, praised the work of police across Europe, especially in light of the constant threat of terrorist attack.

She was said to be in Venice for the last leg of a trip to Naples, Rome and Florence.
C aribbean islands still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Irma face being lashed by another severe storm.

Hurricane Maria is gathering strength as it heads towards the Lesser Antilles, prompting alerts for the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla that lie to the west.

The Foreign Office is advising against all travel to the British Virgin Islands as Maria is expected to make landfall on Tuesday or Wednesday, with severe damage and coastal flooding expected.

Similar warnings against all but essential travel are in place for fellow British overseas territories Montserrat and Anguilla.

Chris Austin from the Department for International Development, who is leading the UK's response to the disaster, said the Joint Task Force is anticipating having to provide further short term relief as Maria edges closer.

This graphic from the National Hurricane Center shows the location and possible track of tropical storm Maria / EPA

He said they have already provided 75 tonnes of aid - including shelter kits, food and water - but added that the 5,000 tarpaulins already distributed could be lost in the new weather front.

"We are planning for the unexpected, we are planning for the worst, we need to demonstrate our own resilience because there could be some pretty sharp backwards steps I think," Mr Austin said.

The US National Hurricane Centre said Maria was strengthening and issued a hurricane warning for Guadeloupe, Martinique and the British overseas territory of Montserrat.

Saint Martin, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands are all under hurricane watch, the centre added.

Brigadier John Ridge, the second in command of the Joint Task Force, said the UK's military helicopters and aircraft in the region "will be kept out of harm's way" in Barbados, where there is cover to protect them.

Storm Maria is set to arrive in Barbados on Sunday evening, although he stressed that it is not clear exactly which way it will track.

"It almost does not matter whether it tracks north of here or straight through here.

"If it tracks straight through here our problems are going to be the strength of the winds, if it tracks north of here we will be on the edge of the rain," he said.

"Even with an hour of rain here at the moment, it runs straight off as there is no vegetation.

"Normally it would get absorbed by the leaves, that's not there, and the storm drains which then divert the flow have all been blocked by the detritus that have run off the hills."

Images from a Royal Marine helicopter show devastation caused by Irma / Royal Marines

Brig Ridge said additional reserve troops will be sent to the British Virgin Islands, but defended his decision to put troops potentially in harm's way, stating it is a "risk worth taking" because it ensures "extra capacity" to deal with any immediate problems in the aftermath.

"Once the hurricane is through we can leap back into action, we have got the guys positioned in the right place so they are ready to react," he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Paul Maynard, commanding officer of 40 Commando Royal Marines, said the monitoring equipment to keep track of hurricanes is currently out of action on Tortola.

"We are relying on other overseas territories and the US to just monitor that, the threat is very real," he added.

He said the problem is that because there is so much debris on the island following the damage caused by Irma, a category three hurricane is "just going to pick all that up, spin it around and throw it like ammunition everywhere".

UK Armed Forces respond to Hurricane Irma - In pictures 1 /16 UK Armed Forces respond to Hurricane Irma - In pictures UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 Soldiers booking equipment in at RAF Brize Norton ready to deploy to Operation Ruman, as part of the United Kingdom's response to the emerging disaster following Hurricane Irma PA A Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, before Dfid aid is loaded and flown to the areas affected by Hurricane Irma as winds of up to 175mph left death and destruction in the Atlantic PA Soldiers booking equipment in at RAF Brize Norton ready to deploy to Operation Ruman, as part of the United Kingdom's response to the emerging disaster following Hurricane Irma PA UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 Ultra-light airfield damage repair plant ready to be loaded at RAF Brize Norton ready to deploy to Operation Ruman, as part of the United Kingdom's response to the emerging disaster following Hurricane Irma PA A Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft is fuelled at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, before Dfid aid is loaded and flown to the areas affected by Hurricane Irma as winds of up to 175mph left death and destruction in the Atlantic PA UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 UK Armed Forces disaster relief operation in Anguilla MoD/Crown copyright 2017 HMS Ocean, as a military task group, is on its way with several hundred UK troops to offer assistance to those affected by Hurricane Irma PA

"It could cause potentially more casualties and fatalities than Irma did," he added.

"Of course there is the threat to my own force as well. (But) we are not going anywhere, it would be immoral and the wrong thing to do to leave these people to face another tragedy without us alongside."

He said the crisis is "far from over", adding: "The requirement for military forces to support in the delivery of aid, as first responders is still very much there."

Lt Col Maynard said the experts and people are already there ready to deal with whatever damage or problems Storm Maria may cause, and to get aid to wherever it is needed.

He revealed that 70 per cent of Tortola's prison population is now back behind bars, and that during the potential hurricane, cross agency security forces will be put into the jail.

Brig Ridge added that he is "pretty worried" about the storm, because of the resilience of the communities already affected by Irma, and because he may end up with soldiers, marines and airmen in harm's way.
N orth Korea has threatened to speed up its nuclear programme if it continues to face sanctions and pressure from the UN.

In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, Pyongyang described a new set of UN sanctions as the most vicious, unethical and inhumane act of hostility.

It came after US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping committed to maximising pressure on North Korea through vigorous enforcement of UN Security Council resolutions.

China sits on the security council, which has voted unanimously on two separate occasions in recent weeks to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its weapons testing.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un inspecting a launching drill of the medium-and-long range strategic ballistic rocket Hwasong-12 / AFP/Getty Images

Mr Trump has also been pressing the Chinese president to use his influence to help rein in North Korea.

North Korea fired its latest missile over Japan on Friday after a fresh round of UN sanctions approved on September 11. It travelled 2,299 miles, putting the US Pacific territory of Guam, which North Korea has said it plans to target, within reach.

The foreign ministry statement, released on Monday through the countrys KCNA news agency, said: The increased moves of the US and its vassal forces to impose sanctions and pressure on the DPRK [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] will only increase our pace towards the ultimate completion of the state nuclear force."

Donald Trump said he was considering an armed forces day to show military might / EPA

The statement added that the goal of the UN sanctions was to physically exterminate the countrys people, system and government.

Later on Monday, US president Mr Trump said he was considering having an armed forces parade in Washington on the Fourth of July to showcase the nation's military might.

Mr Trump met with French president Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meetings.

He reminisced about how much he enjoyed watching France's military parade while in Paris on Bastille Day.

Mr Trump then said he was considering ordering up a similar spectacle for Pennsylvania Avenue, potentially as soon as next year.
O pponents of same-sex marriage in Australia scrawled "vote no" in the sky as millions of people took to the polls in an equal rights referendum.

The note appeared on Sunday as Australians were urged to take part in a voluntary postal vote on the question: "Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?"

Journalist Shane Bazzi was walking with his boyfriend in the Sydney suburb of La Perouse when he noticed the skywriting.

He told CNN: "We can't escape it. Our lives now being debated in the sky. We can't even look at the sky without being told we don't deserve equal rights.

Campaigners on both sides of the debate took to Twitter to comment on the message in the sky.

One person described the vote as a life and death decision:

Others said the scrawl was evil:

One Twitter user pointed out the temporary nature of the sign, which was soon blown away by the wind.

Same-sex marriage advocates had tried to stop the vote over fears it would give opponents a platform to promote intolerant and hurtful messages to a national audience. However, a court ruled it could go ahead.

Last week, the Australian government passed temporary new laws banning hate speech for the votes duration, threatening a 7,500 ($12,600 Australian dollars) fine for people who vilify, intimidate or threaten harm "on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status or religion."

Unlike in Australian federal elections, voting on the decision is not compulsory and the result is non-binding, meaning the government is not legally obligated to agree to it. Parliamentary must pass legislation to action the result.

Australia is expected to vote in favour of same-sex marriage, with a recent poll saying 63 per cent of Australians wanted it to be legalised, 30 per cent were opposed and the rest were undecided.

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced he would be voting yes last month.

The results will be announced on November 15.
T he young victims of a horrifying acid attack in Marseille have called for their alleged attacker to not be vilified as mental illness is not a choice.

Four US college students were attacked at Saint-Charles station and rushed to hospital. Two of the girls, both in their early 20s, had acid thrown on their faces.

Their alleged attacker, who was described by police as a mentally unstable 41-year-old woman, was arrested after the shocking incident on Sunday morning.

In a heartwarming message while updating friends and family on their conditions, one of the victims, Michelle Krug, asked those who sent their thoughts and prayers to also consider the attacker.

'Mental illness is not a choice': Michelle Krug, a Boston College student, had acid thrown in her face outside a train station in France / Facebook

Just hours after the attack, she wrote on Facebook: To fill in those who have not heard, three of my friends and I were attacked this morning at a Marseille train station by a woman suffering from a mental illness.

She threw a weak solution of hydrochloric acid at us from a water bottle, which got in one of my eyes and one of my friend's eyes.

She added: I ask that if you send thoughts and prayers our way, please consider thinking about/praying for our attacker so that she may receive the help she needs and deserves. Mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized.

All four victims, who are students at Boston College, were treated for their injuries in hospital. Ms Krug added that they are anticipating a quick recovery.

Courtney Siverling, who was among the group, thanked those who had reached out to them after news broke of the incident, adding that she hoped their attacker would be healed from her mental illness.

Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out to see if I'm ok and/or has been praying for us. I did not receive any injuries from the attack in Marseille this morning and we are all safe, she wrote on social media.

I pray that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of Jesus and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him.

The two women, along with friends Charlotte Kaufman and Kesley Korsten, were travelling to Paris from Marseille when the woman threw hydrochloric acid at them shortly after 11am.

Social media users were quick to praise the students for their beautiful response to the attack, with one commenter saying: What a beautiful heart you have.

One wrote: Oh my, Michelle. I'm glad you are recovering, and I think your post is graceful and powerful. Amazing and beautiful, with another adding: Thanks for your inspiring outlook-- I am glad you are okay.
F ormer White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer made a shocking cameo appearance at the Emmys awards show last night as Hollywood stars pilloried President Donald Trump.

One after another, celebrities from host Stephen Colbert to actor Alec Baldwin to screen legend Jane Fonda took aim at the president as showbusiness took second place to politics on TVs big night.

But the biggest surprise came when Mr Spicer, the fiercely loyal press secretary fired by Mr Trump, was wheeled out at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles to help Mr Colbert mock his old boss standing behind a lectern similar to the one he used in the White House.

Making fun of his own much-derided claim that the Trump inauguration drew the biggest audience in history, Mr Spicer cracked: This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person, and around the world. Period.'

Trump's sacked Press Secretary Sean Spicer was wheeled out / AP

Mr Colbert, the US late night show host, had launched a barrage of jabs at the president during his opening monologue, calling Mr Trump, among other things, a morally corrupt anti-hero.

As Mr Spicer left the stage to stunned applause, Mr Colbert said, Thank you Melissa McCarthy.

The mention was a reference to the actress - present in the Emmys audience - whose crazed imitation of the press secretary on American TVs popular Saturday Night Live caused a sensation and almost certainly played a part in Mr Spicers dismissal for turning the administration into a laughing stock.

Vanessa Kirby arrives for the 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony / EPA

The long shadow cast by Mr Trump over the 69th Emmys left little room for Britains awards hopefuls to shine.

Riz Ahmed was among the British winners, taking home Best Lead actor in a Limited Series or Movie for The Night Of, ahead of fellow Britons Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock: The Lying Detective) and Ewan McGregor (Fargo).

Despite high hopes, Claire Foy, nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, and her British co-stars in The Crown - which was up for three prizes - went home empty handed.

Claire Foy and Matt Smith / Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

However, American actor John Lithgow took home the first award of the evening for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in the royal series.

Other British winners included Charlie Brooker, who won Best Writing and Best Limited Series for the San Junipero episode of Black Mirror, a show on streaming service Netflix.

Charlie Brooker with one of his two Emmys / Mario Anzuoni/Reuters

British comedian John Oliver and his writing team also won two prizes for his satirical show Last Week Tonight.

The Handmaids Tale, the Hulu streaming service series based on author Margaret Atwoods dystopian novel, was the nights big winner with three awards - Best Drama Series, Best Director for Reed Morano and Best Actress for Elisabeth Moss.

The victory meant Hulu leapfrogged Netflix and Amazon to become the first streaming service to win an Emmy for Best Series.

Big Little Liars also won three awards; Best Lead Actress for Nicole Kidman, Best Supporting Actor for Alexander Skarsgard and Best Director for Jean-Marc Vallee.

Serial Emmy winner Julia LouisDreyfus won Best Actress in a Comedy series for Veep.

This Is Us star Sterling K. Brown's win for Best Lead Actor in a drama series was the first time an African-American actor had won in the category in almost 20 years.

But as much as Hollywood loves giving out awards, it loves talking about Donald Trump just as much and the jibes kept coming.

Unlike the presidency, Emmys go to the winner of the popular vote, said Mr Colbert, alluding to Hillary Clintons majority in the popular vote despite losing out in the November 2016 election to Mr Trump.

He also compared the president to Walter Whiter, the Breaking Bad character played by Bryan Cranston.

69th Primetime Emmy Awards 2017 - In pictures 1 /57 69th Primetime Emmy Awards 2017 - In pictures Elisabeth Moss poses in the press room with her awards for outstanding lead actress in a drama series and outstanding drama series for "The Handmaid's Tale" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Alexander Skarsgard, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon with their Emmy for Big Little Lies Lucy Nicholson/Reuters Host Stephen Colbert performs at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Charlie Brooker accepts the award for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series or Movie for Blac Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Jane Fonda (L to R) present the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Movie Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Nicole Kidman, left, and Keith Urban arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Jessica Biel arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Robin Wright and Dylan Frances Penn arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Heidi Klum arrives for the 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards Jimmy Morris/EPA Julia Louis-Dreyfus poses in the press room with her awards for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series and outstanding comedy series for "Veep" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Reese Witherspoon poses in the press room with the award for outstanding limited series for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Sofia Vergara arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Michelle Pfeiffer arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Viola Davis arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Riz Ahmed poses with the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for The Night Of REUTERS Claire Foy and Matt Smith attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Anna Faris and Allison Janney speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Kevin Winter/Getty Images Nicole Kidman congratulates Alexander Skarsgard after winning the award for outstanding supporting actor in a limited series or a movie for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Alex Berliner/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images) Donald Glover accepts the award for outstanding directing for a comedy series for the "Atlanta" episode "B.A.N." at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer speaks t the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Kate McKinnon poses in the press room with the award for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for "Saturday Night Live" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Finn Wolfhard, from left, Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo and Caleb McLaughlin arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Laura Dern poses in the press room with the award for outstanding supporting actress in a limited series or movie for "Big Little Lies" at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Invision/AP Jessica Lange (L) and Susan Sarandon attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Thandie Newton arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP James Corden and Julia Carey arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Invision/AP Gillian Anderson arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Sarah Hyland arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Priyanka Chopra arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Julia Louis-Dreyfus arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Ariel Winter arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Zoe Kravitz arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Kate McKinnon arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Shailene Woodley arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Millie Bobby Brown arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Lea Michele arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Padma Lakshmi arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Alec and Hilaria Baldwin arrive at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Jane Krakowski arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Sarah Paulson arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Evan Rachel Wood arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Tracey Ullman arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Zach Galifianakis arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

During the opening song medley, Ms Louis-Dreyfuss sang about how nice it would be to have a president who 'was not beloved by Nazis.

Alec Baldwin won an Emmy for his acclaimed portrayal of the president on Saturday Night Live.

Going onstage accepting the Emmy, he said: 'At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.

Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, the stars of the 1980 classic 9 to 5, took a clear dig at Mr Trump saying their film characters didn't put up with a 'sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigoted boss' - and they won't today either.

Donald Glover, the first black actor ever to win for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, thanked Mr Trump for 'making black people number one on the most oppressed list.
L ady Gaga has postponed the entire European leg of her tour as she battles severe pain caused by Fibromyalgia.

The US pop star pulled out of a concert in Rio last week and has now announced that she wont be continuing with her Joanne tour until next year.

Gaga, who was scheduled to perform in Barcelona on Thursday, said that she was devastated but had made the decision based on medical advice.

I have always been honest about my physical and mental health struggles, she wrote on Twitter.

Searching for years to get to the bottom of them. It is complicated and difficult to explain, and we are trying to figure it out.

As I get stronger and when I feel ready, I will tell my story in more depth, and plan to take this on strongly so I can not only raise awareness, but expand research for others who suffer as I do, so I can help make a difference.

Lady Gaga - style file 1 /73 Lady Gaga - style file Lady Gaga arrives for the premiere of the film "A Star is Born" AFP/Getty Images August 12, 2008 Onstage during MTV's Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios Getty Images December 12, 2008 At the Z100's Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden Getty Images June 26, 2009 On the Other Stage at the Glastonbury Festival Getty Images September 7, 2009 Presenting cooperation with 'Monster Cable' at IFA fair Getty Images September 13, 2009 At the MTV Video Music Awards Getty Images September 13, 2009 At the MTV Video Music Awards Getty Images November 3, 2009 At fuse TV's "On The Record" Getty Images December 7, 2009 Meeting Queen Elizabeth II following the Royal Variety performance Getty Images December 8, 2009 At the launch of VEVO January 31, 2010 At the Grammys Getty Images January 31, 2010 Onstage during the Grammys Getty Images January 31, 2010 At the Grammys Getty Images February 16, 2010 At the Brit Awards Getty Images September 12, 2010 At the MTV Video Music Awards Getty Images February 13, 2011 At the Grammys Getty Images July 9, 2011 At Sydney Airport Getty Images November 6, 2011 At the MTV Europe Music Awards Getty Images November 10, 2011 At the Bambi awarding ceremony in Wiesbaden, Germany AFP/Getty Images May 8, 2012 At Narita International airport in Tokyo AFP/Getty Images September 16, 2012 At the Philip Treacy show during London Fashion Week Getty Images August 25, 2013 Performing at the MTV Video Music Awards Getty Images for MTV October 23, 2013 At the Ritz Carlton hotel at the Potsdamer Platz in Berlin AFP/Getty Images October 25, 2013 At the Ritz Carlton hotel on Potsdamer Platz in Berlin AFP/Getty Images December 8, 2013 At the Capital FM Jingle Bell Ball at the 02 Arena Getty Images March 2, 2014 At the Oscars Getty Images March 30, 2014 At the Roseland Ballroom Getty Images August 12, 2014 At Narita International airport in Tokyo AFP/Getty Images February 22, 2015 At the Oscars AFP/Getty Images June 18, 2015 At the Songwriters Hall Of Fame annual induction and awards Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame September 20, 2015 At the Emmy Awards Getty Images November 23, 2015 At the British Fashion Awards Getty Images January 10, 2016 At the Golden Globes Getty Images February 10, 2016 At the Saint Laurent show at The Hollywood Palladium Getty Images February 15, 2016 At the Grammys Getty Images for NARAS February 28, 2016 At the scars AFP/Getty Images March 20, 2016 At the Daily Front Row "Fashion Los Angeles Awards" Getty Images May 2, 2016 At the Met Gala Getty Images November 30, 2016 Performing on the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway Getty Images for Victoria's Secret November 30, 2016 With Alessandra Ambrosio backstage prior to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Getty Images for Victoria's Secret December 6, 2016 Meeting Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall during the Royal Variety Performance Getty Images February 2, 2017 Speaking onstage during the Super Bowl press conference Getty Images February 5, 2017 On the field during rehearsals ahead of the Super Bowl half time show AFP/Getty Images February 5, 2017 Performing during the Super Bowl half time show Getty Images February 5, 2017 Performing during the Super Bowl half time show Getty Images February 12, 2017 At the the 59th Grammy Awards AFP/Getty Images April 15, 2017 Onstage at Coachella Getty Images for Coachella September 8, 2017 Attending the press conference for "Gaga: Five Foot Two" at the Toronto International Film Festival AFP/Getty Images September 8, 2017 Arriving for the premiere of her movie "Gaga: Five Foot Two" at the Toronto International Film Festival AFP/Getty Images October 21, 2017 Onstage at Texas University Getty Images for Ford Motor Comp January 28, 2018 At the 60th Annual GRAMMY Awards Getty Images January 6, 2019 At the 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards Getty Images February 24, 2019 Getty Images May 6, 2019 Brandon Maxwell and Lady Gaga attend The 2019 Met Gala Getty Images June 28, 2019 Before performing at the annual Pride parade in New York City GC Images

An official statement confirming the cancellation read: Lady Gaga is suffering from severe physical pain that has impacted her ability to perform. She remains under the care of expert medical professionals who recommended the postponement earlier today.

Lady Gaga is devastated that she has to wait to perform for her European fans. She plans to spend the next seven weeks proactively working with her doctors to heal from this and past traumas that still affect her daily life, and result in severe physical pain in her body.

The US pop star pulled out of her slot at the Rock in Rio show in Brazil on Thursday and later posted a selfie from her hospital bed on Instagram.

Despite saying that she was devastated not to be performing, the 31-year-old said that she had to take care of her body.
Countries & Areas

Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia Zimbabwe
This page may have been moved, deleted, or is otherwise unavailable. To help you find what you are looking for:

Enter Search Term(s):

Still cant find what youre looking for? Send us a message using our contact us form. To report a broken link or other problems with the website, please include the URL.

Thank you for visiting state.gov.
System-cleaning tool CCleaner is one of the most popular programs of its type in the world. According to Avast, which recently acquired maker Piriform, it boasts over 2 billion worldwide downloads and receives 5 million more each week. But it's just been reported that up to 2.27 million users were put at risk from a backdoor found in a recent version of the program.

Security firm Cisco Talos warned that version 5.33 of CCleaner, which was downloadable from August 15 to September 11, had been modified to include the Floxif malware. The unaffected version 5.34 was released on September 12, but those who downloaded the tool during the weeks that version 5.33 was available may have unwittingly installed the backdoor.

Update: The exact versions that were infected were the 32-bit version of CCleaner and CCleaner Cloud 1.07.3191. The 64-bit version of CCleaner was not affected.

Floxif can gather information about an infected system and send the data back to a hacker's server. It can also allow other forms of malware, such as ransomware and keyloggers, to make their way onto a victim's computer.

It's unclear exactly how the person or persons responsible breached Avast's systems, but Talos speculates it could have been "an insider with access to either the development or build environments within the organization."

Paul Yung, Piriform's Vice President of Products, has tried to play down the attack. In a blog post today, he wrote: "The threat has now been resolved in the sense that the rogue server is down, other potential servers are out of the control of the attacker."

"Users of CCleaner Cloud version 1.07.3191 have received an automatic update. In other words, to the best of our knowledge, we were able to disarm the threat before it was able to do any harm."

The company said it was working with US law enforcement agencies to discover who was behind the incident. "We apologize and are taking extra measures to ensure this does not happen again," it added.

If you haven't already done so, you might want to download the latest 5.34 version of CCleaner here. There's also a portable version of the app that doesn't have an installer.
"The world is at a crossroads. Where do we go from here?... The world expects China and the U.S. to properly handle their relationship," Xi pointed out. | Read More
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Sept. 18, 2017 -- LatAm Logistic Properties, a leading operator and developer of Class-A logistic properties in Costa Rica, Colombia, and Peru, today announced it has signed a new build-to-suit lease agreement with PriceSmart, the largest operator of U.S.-style membership shopping warehouse clubs in Latin America and the Caribbean, for a 16,000-square meter regional distribution facility in Costa Rica.

The new logistic facility, which will support PriceSmart's sales growth, will be located in Alajuela, Costa Rica at LatAm Parque Logistico Coyol. The park offers a key location for the distribution of goods with excellent connectivity to Juan Santamaria International Airport and the major highways that connect to the local consumer population, Central American countries as well as the Pacific and Atlantic seaports. The state-of-the-art facility will be utilized as a regional distribution center for Latin America. Construction is planned to commence in September 2017, and PriceSmart will occupy the facility upon its expected completion in April 2018.

LatAm Parque Logistico Coyol currently includes three buildings totaling 52,000 square meters leased to Expeditors, Mabe, Kraft-Heinz, among others. At full build-out, the park will include around 82,000 square meters of logistic space.

"We are pleased to support the ongoing success of PriceSmart in the region and to strengthen our relationship with such an important retailer in Latin America," said Mike Fangman, Founder & CEO of LatAm Logistic Properties. "We continue to see strong demand for new modern logistics facilities; developments such as this one enable us to provide solutions for our regional customers. We are very pleased to be completing this transaction, and look forward to adding the new facility to our overall portfolio."

"One of the keys to PriceSmart's success is a very efficient and advanced logistics operation. Our new Regional Distribution Center located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, will support this effort. Having a regional facility should enable PriceSmart to adequately stock multiple sales locations in Central America and positively impact service and value for our members," said Rodrigo Calvo, Executive Vice President for Real Estate of PriceSmart Inc.

About LatAm Logistic Properties

LatAm Logistic Properties develops, acquires and owns Class-A industrial properties in the target markets of Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, and Panama. LatAm Logistic Properties was founded in 2013 by Mike Fangman and Jaguar Growth Partners joined as an investor and strategic partner in 2015. LatAm leverages its team throughout the region via a deep understanding of global customer demands, international best practices in design specifications and construction best practices along with local expertise in market dynamics, site selection and regulatory approvals. Please see www.latamlp.com for additional information.

For additional information please contact Aris Stamatiadis, aris@latamlp.com

About Jaguar

Jaguar Growth Partners is a privately-held investment management firm specializing in real estate private equity in growth markets globally. Founded in 2013 by Gary Garrabrant and Thomas McDonald, Jaguar invests in and develops scalable real estate-related operating platforms and companies poised to grow in markets characterized by an expanding middle class, aspirational youth, urbanization and other secular trends found in emerging global economies. Commencing their investment activities in the 1990's, Jaguar's founders are regarded as pioneers in real estate investing and company-building in emerging markets through growth capital investments, working in active collaboration with local operating partners. The Firm capitalizes on a broad array of investment opportunities and is at the vanguard of institutionalizing the most compelling growth markets. Jaguar is distinguished by its global insights, partner orientation and proven approach to optimizing value and liquidity. Please see www.jaguargrowth.com for additional information.

About PriceSmart

PriceSmart, Inc. is the largest operator of membership warehouse clubs in Central America and the Caribbean, and has recently entered the South American region with clubs in Colombia. It serves over 1 million cardholding members at 40 wholly owned and operated warehouse clubs in 12 countries and one U.S. territory. PriceSmart was pioneered by Sol and Robert Price, founders of The Price Club; Robert Price is Chairman of the Board.

PriceSmart's membership club model is similar in many respects to U.S. clubs like Costco and Sam's, with some differences:

Smaller store size (50,000 to 75,000 sq. ft.) to align with the size of the markets in which it operates,

Lower membership fees  average US$35.00 ,

, Merchandise tailored to local preferences as well as for retail and wholesale customers,

Currently PriceSmart warehouse clubs can be found in the following countries: Colombia (7), Costa Rica (7), El Salvador (2), Guatemala (3) Honduras (3), Nicaragua (2), Panama (5), Aruba (1), Barbados (1), Dominican Republic (3), Jamaica (1), Trinidad and Tobago (4), and U.S. Virgin Islands (1). Online shopping is available to members in all countries.

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/latam-logistic-properties-signs-16000-square-meter-build-to-suit-with-pricesmart-in-costa-rica-300520500.html

SOURCE LatAm Logistic Properties

RELATED LINKShttp://www.latamlp.com
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Review By Larry Nutson

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan

The only European compact SUV

By Larry Nutson

Senior Editor and Bureau Chief

Chicago Bureau

The Auto Channel

Earlier this summer, on the invite of Volkswagen, I drove the new 2018 Tiguan out in the wide-open spaces around the environs of Denver, Colorado as well as in the nearby even higher elevations of the Rockies.

I recently had another, but more typical, test drive with the new Tiguan. This time it was closer to sea-level, in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. VW says the new Tiguan is The New King of the Concrete Jungle. Well now I was about to find out how the Tiguan would rule the busy city-street, tight parking spaces, and pock-marked city streets that so many urbanites experience every day.

Volkswagens SUV line-up is now focused on three core models. This all-new, second-generation 2018 Tiguan compact SUV thats longer, has more cargo space and has three-row seating to carry up to seven passengers; the new Atlas mid-size seven-passenger SUV; and the previous generation 5-passenger Tiguan, rebadged as the Tiguan Limited.

The all-new, three-row seven-passenger 2018 Atlas has a starting MSRP of $30,500 for the four-cylinder turbo 2.0L TSI S FWD model, and $31,900 for the 3.6-liter V6 S FWD model.

The 2017 Tiguan Limited 5-passenger compact SUV, based off the original platform, is reconfigured for low complexity and high value and is now offered in one trim with an MSRP of $21,995.

The new, bigger 2018 Tiguan will be offered in S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium trim levels priced from $25,345 to $36,250 for the front-drive models. VWs optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive is $1,300 additional on each of the trims.

The three-row seating is standard on the front-drive trims and a $500 option on the all-wheel-drive trims.

Under the hood is VWs 2.0-L turbo 4-cylinder engine that has been updated, now with 184-HP. Theres plenty of low-end torque, 221 lb-ft, and together with the standard 8-speed automatic the Tiguan performs well.

Around Chicagoland the Tiguan delivered good overall performance with no significant shortcomings in acceleration from stop, merging onto highways as well as passing. Engine noise is well managed and the overall driving experience from inside the cockpit is quite comfortable.

VWs 4Motion AWD is biased to a front torque split so that power goes to the rear wheels only when needed. This helps keep fuel consumption lower. A console-mounted control allows the selection of four different driving modes--snow, on-road, off-road, and off-road custom.

EPA test-cycle fuel economy ratings for the front-drive models are 24 combined mpg, with 22 city mpg and 27 highway mpg. The AWD models have the same 27 mpg highway rating and are rated one mpg lower at 21 city mpg. The identical highway mpg ratings illustrate the efficiency of the AWD front torque split.

For my Chicago drive I was in the SE model with 4Motion AWD that has a base price of $30,230. Overall I got 20 mpg average, just one mpg less than the EPA rating, for my driving that was mostly at slower city speeds with lots of stops and accelerations. Im not light on the pedal and I like to get where I am going quickly, and safely too. Frequently, time is of the essence.

Longer by 10. 6 inches over the Tiguan Limited, theres up to 58-percent more cargo space. Despite its increased length, the new Tiguan is easy to maneuver with a smaller turning radius of 37.7 feet. I often need to parallel park during my routine day and the Tiguan is not at all a challenge to park with its good outward visibility and the rear-view camera to help.

Although most SUVs never get off-roaded, the Tiguan is ready with 7.9 inches of ground clearance. The higher ground clearance helps out to keep you going in deep snow. The front bumper is similar to the European models off-road package with a 26-degree approach angle and in back theres a 23-degree departure angle.

Three-row models max out cargo carrying at 65.7 cu ft, with 33 cu ft behind the second row and 12 cu ft if all rows are upright. Two-row models are slightly more roomy with 73.5 cu ft max and 37.6 cu ft with the second row upright.

The Tiguan is tow-rated at a 1500 lb. braked trailer.

Standard features include a rear view camera, roof rails, LED front and rear lights, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink. An R-line package will eventually be available.

Options include 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels, a large sunroof, power liftgate with hands free opening, and a Fender 480 watt 9-speaker premium audio system.

A 12.3-inch digital display is available instead of the standard instrument cluster. The hi-res display can store up to four different driver profiles so that personal preferences are easily at hand. The navigation system map can also be displayed in the display for easy viewing.

The new Tiguan offers a full range of driver-assistance safety features that I highly recommend. Front brake assist with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert with braking, lane keep assist, 360-degree camera view, adaptive cruise control, and park distance control with rear braking will all be available.

The new Tiguan is arriving in dealer showrooms now. For more information, features and specs go to www.vw.com.

For that added peace of mind during ownership, the all-new Tiguan, as well as the Atlas, have Americas Best SUV Bumper-to-Bumper Transferable Warranty of 6 years/72,000 miles.

In my view the new Tiguan is well designed and equipped to take on the concrete jungle. It has a nicely performing drive train as well as good ride and handling that is typical of its Germanic heritage. With its increased size and good looks the new Tiguan is a good choice for buyers shopping for a roomy compact SUV, whether they be in the urban or suburban concrete jungle.

The ongoing electrification of newly designed vehicles will be interesting to watch. Well have to wait and see what direction VW takes to keep a strong presence in the SUV market.

 2017 Larry Nutson, the Chicago Car Guy

The Most Helpful Volkswagen Research Information; Anywhere!

READY TO SHOP? - Get a Better Deal As A "Free-To-The-Dealer" Unencumbered Car Buyer
Hillary Clinton on her book tour. Photo: Nathan Congleton/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Back in May, Hillary Clinton addressed the graduating seniors at Wellesley College and advised them: Dont be afraid of your ambition, your dreams, or even your anger.

Clinton, who at the time was working on her quick, raw, postelection memoir, What Happened, has been heeding that last bit of her own advice. What Happened is 100 percent more candid than anything she has previously expressed in 25 years in national politics. But what makes it unusual and unusually valuable  what sent its early critics into apoplexy even before its publication  is that in it, Hillary Clinton is expressing anger, something she was not free to do during the election, even as her opponents, Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump, were admired for their ability to channel the rage of their supporters.

The question of whether Clinton could or should have found her own mad voice during the campaign hangs over What Happened. Should she have turned on Donald Trump as he paced behind her at the second debate, she wonders. Could she have found a way to communicate the anger many Americans were feeling? I couldnt  and wouldnt  compete to stoke peoples rage and resentment. I think thats dangerous  Besides, its just not how Im wired, she writes, describing the mental diagnostics she was performing as she listened to Trumps wrathful inauguration, wondering if maybe thats why Trump was now delivering the inaugural address.

But if her failure to win the Electoral College hinged on Clintons inability to traffic in rhetorical fury, then the question she raises goes beyond her own wiring. Because she never could have turned around and screamed at Trump, never could have slashed her finger through the air and called for revolution in the style of Bernie Sanders, at least not if she had any hope of winning the presidency. Hillary Clinton is a woman, and there is almost nothing that Americans view as more repellent in women than anger.

Recall that every time Clinton spoke too loudly into a microphone while debating her screamy opponents, Americans seemed to rear back; consider that the one deprecatory remark she threw out  calling those who responded enthusiastically to Trumps open racism deplorables  is still regarded by many pundits as her fatal error. Never mind that she said it while running against a candidate who called Mexicans rapists. Censorious anger from women is a liability; from men, it is often, simply, speech.

When California senator Kamala Harris and Jeff Sessions tussled during his Senate Intelligence hearings in the spring, Trump adviser Jason Miller described Sessions as full of vinegar and fire in his belly, while he deemed Harris hysterical. (Black women, with perhaps more to be mad about in America than anyone else, are often regarded as militant monsters when they so much as raise a disapproving eyebrow, or just as often, when someone imagines that they have. Recall the treatment of Michelle Obama in 2008.) After Senator Kirsten Gillibrand dressed down a commandant for failing to address sexual harassment in the military earlier this year, Tucker Carlson called her positively unglued. And in response to a righteous postelection rant from Senator Elizabeth Warren, Mika Brzezinski declared, Theres an anger there thats shrill  unmeasured and almost unhinged.

It is therefore exceedingly rare to watch a woman whose career has depended on her appeal to an American public commit her exasperation to paper  paper she hopes to sell for $30 a pop. That Hillary Clinton has finally done it tells us quite a bit about how finished her career as a candidate is, and about how desperate she must have felt, after a quarter century, to  as she rather demurely puts it  get this off [her] chest!

This being her fury at the media, especially the New York Times, with its damaging infatuation with the email story. But also: her antipathy toward Donald Trump; her loathing for Vladimir Putin; her rancor toward Jim Comey; her disgruntlement with Bernie Sanders. And then there is her vexation with sexist double standards. Ive tried to adjust, she writes drily. After hearing repeatedly that some people didnt like my voice, I enlisted the help of a linguistic expert who told her to focus on deep breathing and positivity. That way, she gently smolders, when the crowd got energized and started shouting  as crowds at rallies tend to do  I could resist doing the normal thing, which is to shout back. Okay, Clinton tells the expert, shell try. But out of curiosity, can you give me an example of a woman in public life who has pulled this off successfully  who has met the energy of a crowd while keeping her voice soft and low? He could not.

If this release of steam is coming late for Clinton  too late, by some measures  it could nevertheless serve as a useful model for other politicians, women who perhaps have some things theyd like to get off their chests. More crucially, it could be a step toward adjusting American ears to the sound of female anger  righteous and defensive, grand and petty  as a wholly normal emotional and rhetorical expression. Recently, pop culture has suggested that there is a hunger for real talk from those in whom it has long been discouraged: Key & Peele provided Barack Obama with a comedic anger translator, who clarified that when the former president suggested compromising with Republicans, what he was not saying was You know these motherfuckers are gonna say no before I can even suggest some shit! Clintons candidacy prompted a similarly profane parody, under an account called @shitHRCcantsay.

But that adjustment will take a long time, something Clinton knows all too well. While angry has often been the first adjective used to describe the book, a reader might be surprised to learn that much of Clintons writing on rage is actually about how hard shes worked to suppress her passions over the years. She describes forcing herself to smile even when miserable; at one point it becomes so hard that the muscles in her face ache. Maybe I have overlearned the lesson of staying calm  biting my tongue, digging my fingernails into a clenched fist, smiling all the while  she writes elsewhere.

So internalized is womens impulse to paper over their ire that Clinton writes about how, in the weeks after her loss, she prayed to stay hopeful and openhearted rather than becoming cynical and bitter  so that the rest of my life wouldnt be spent like Miss Havisham  rattling around my house obsessing over what might have been. This is what women have been taught that rage might do to us: We are so sure that our resentments  especially any resentments toward men  are corrosive, and make us appear pathetic and vengeful, that we ask for divine help to simply stop feeling them.

And those who continue to insist on hearing Clintons reasoned rage as a means to deflect blame are missing perhaps the object of her most blistering ire: herself. My mistakes burn me up inside, she writes of having given the Goldman Sachs speeches. She calls her handling of the email server boneheaded. Recounting a painful childhood game with her famously difficult father, who promised hed love her, but maybe not like her, even if she robbed a store or murdered someone, Clinton writes of how in November, I thought to myself, Well, Dad, what if I lose an election I should have won and let an unqualified bully become president of the United States? Would you still love me then?

Hillary Clinton is obviously not alone in her condemnation of Hillary Clinton. One of her former fundraisers said to the Hill, Honestly, I wish shed just shut the fuck up and go away. Such commentary  which, to be clear, is anger at her anger, is treated as analysis. But when Clinton vents her spleen, its heard as whining. These double standards dont automatically make either side of the equation more right than the other; those who are furious at Clinton are free to yell back at her, to point out that poor press coverage did not force her to skip Wisconsin. But they would do well to remember that its not their rage thats revelatory or new in this dynamic.

People have been reacting with atavistic censure to Hillary Clinton for decades, and shes been expected to simply absorb it all without returning fire. There are shirts, as she writes in What Happened, that feature an image of Trump holding her bloody severed head aloft; others, which she doesnt mention, read Hillary Sucks, But Not Like Monica.

You can disagree with Clinton; you can reasonably acknowledge that some of her pique does sound defensive. But shes not lying; shes not inciting violence. Shes not freaking out about crowd size or claiming that antifa protesters are as bad as neo-Nazis or suggesting that protesters be taken away on stretchers. (Granting that no woman of any disposition  even Strawberry Shortcakes  has so far figured out how to gain the Oval Office, it is simply inconceivable that a wild-haired, insult-generating female tyrant could have made it to January 28 without being taken down by the 25th Amendment.)

And perhaps the reason the press, and some of Clintons critics on both right and left, react to her legitimate, if arguable, critiques by furiously wishing for her silence is the same reason womens public airing of fury has long been discouraged and cast as irrational: because if we allowed womens resentments the same bearing we afford mens grudges, America would be forced to reckon with the fact that all those angry women might just have a point.

*A version of this article appears in the September 18, 2017, issue of New York Magazine.
Wisconsin state government has been bracing for the looming workforce crisis for years.

"We've had quite a lot of warning for this," said Dennis Winters, chief economist for the Department of Workforce Development. "I published on this back in 2000. We had two recessions through there that let some of the pressure out of the pot."

The state has implemented a number of strategies  such as the Fast Forward worker training grant program, which will grow to a $76.9 million total investment since 2013 in the budget headed for Gov. Scott Walker's desk this week.

But the Walker administration has deemed "unachievable" some strategies recommended by the Governor's Council on Workforce Investment, specifically encouraging skilled college graduates to stay in or relocate to Wisconsin by offering tax credits for student loan forgiveness and moving costs.

Meanwhile the state continues to offer lucrative tax breaks to manufacturers, plus a historic $3 billion payout to Foxconn  without any requirement that they provide worker training programs.

Laura Dresser, associate director of the Center on Wisconsin Strategy at UW-Madison, said addressing the state's workforce needs won't happen one employer at a time, but rather with an investment in infrastructure, education and workers.

"It does seem like the strategies have been very employer-focused," Dresser said. "It feels like basic infrastructure of the state is the long-term economic development infrastructure: Roads, schools and broadband. My biggest concern about the economic foundation is the continued stress and lack of consistent investment to those systems."

Walker declared in his 2017 State of the State address that his focus had shifted from his 2010 campaign focus on "jobs, jobs, jobs" to a new focus on "workforce, workforce, workforce."

In an interview, Walker said he hears from employers all the time who say they are willing to train workers with basic employability skills. To assist he has put in place work requirements and drug-testing for those receiving public benefits, ramped up job training in prisons and targeted programs at helping veterans and those with disabilities access jobs.

Asked whether his approach has been focused too much on the needs of employers, rather than of workers, Walker pointed to youth apprenticeships and the academic and career planning that is now required in all school districts.

"We're not pushing new major economic development initiatives as much as we are workforce," Walker said.

In 2013, Walker's Council on Workforce Investment devised a four-year strategic plan with 21 recommendations to be accomplished by the end of next year.

In May the state reported that it had so far fulfilled 10 of those goals, but abandoned five of them. The rest are a work in progress.

Walker said the tax credit incentives for college graduates won't help in the short-term because the issue is more fundamentally about there not being enough people, rather than there being a group of people "parked somewhere over there."

The council's goals that have been accomplished so far include developing career counseling in schools, expanding youth and adult apprenticeships, providing financial incentives to entrepreneurs, marketing the state to millennials and reducing the technical college wait list.

So far more than $20 million in Fast Forward grants have been issued, supporting more than 200 worker training projects benefiting hundreds of employers and thousands of workers across the state, according to the Department of Workforce Development.

The department's registered apprenticeship program works with 11,000 workers and 2,500 employers annually. In July the department launched WisConnect to link college students with Wisconsin employers, and its Job Center of Wisconsin website connects employers and workers, with more than 100,000 job openings available.

DWD Secretary Ray Allen said Wisconsin is "better positioned than most of the states in the union" to address the workforce challenges of the future. He pointed to robust technical and four-year college systems and programs such as Fast Forward and youth apprenticeships.

The 2017-'19 state budget increases University of Wisconsin System funding by $34.5 million after cuts in previous budgets, adds $4 million for need-based technical college scholarships and adds $11.5 for workforce training grants.

"We've been laying the groundwork to develop a workforce to take on the task of finding employees for Wisconsin businesses," Allen said.

The Urban League of Greater Madison recently received a $94,000 Fast Forward grant to help move low-income workers into better-paying health care administrative positions. Laura Hiebing, an employment specialist with the Urban League, said some workers have trouble accessing the programs because they are working and can't take time off, or don't have access to transportation or child care.

"(The state is) putting a lot of money into workforce training, but they're not putting a lot of money into stipends for trainees," Hiebing said.

Todd Berry, president of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance, said the state's programs may not be sufficient to head off a worker shortage spurred largely by the massive retirement of baby boomers, which demographers have forecast for decades.
Watertown landowners will be involved in new Corps flood-control study

After 30 years, a new flood control feasibility study will include the input of landowners and supply a multitude of options other than a dry dam.
Support for abortion rights drove women to the polls in Tuesdays elections. But for many, the issue took on higher meaning, part of an overarching concern about the future of democracy. Women, especially Democratic women, were more likely than men to say the Roe v. Wade reversal was a top factor in their vote. That was according to AP VoteCast, a nationwide survey of more than 94,000 voters in the midterm elections. More women also said the reversal made them angry, and said abortion had a major impact on their decision to turn out and which candidate they supported. In interviews with AP reporters, many women linked their concerns about abortion to fears for the country.
INGERSOLL, ONT.A General Motors plant in Ingersoll, Ont., has been hit by a strike. The 2,500 members of Unifor Local 88 walked out Sunday at 10:59 p.m. when negotiators for the union and the automaker failed to come to terms on a new contract agreement.

The union says the workers have gone on strike after the company failed to address a key job security issue at the CAMI assembly plant where it produces the Chevrolet Equinox.

Read more:

General Motors CEO wont change production plans despite Trump tweet.

Layoffs at General Motors show the need to retool NAFTA, union says.

Unifor says it wants to become the lead site to build the Equinox after losing production of the GMC Terrain to a Mexican plant that resulted in 600 job layoffs in July.

Every member understands the importance of reaching a deal that secures production and what that means to our families and the community, said Mike Van Boekel, Local 88 chair at the CAMI plant.

The membership showed incredibly strong support for their bargaining committee throughout these negotiations.

GM says it is disappointed the two sides couldnt reach a deal, but is encouraging Unifor to return to the bargaining table.

The company says both sides have made progress on several issues over the past several weeks.

Workers at the CAMI plant operate under a different contract than GM workers in other parts of the country.

Unifor negotiated a deal with GM last year that included large investments in its Canadian operations, including at its assembly plant in Oshawa, Ont.

SHARE:
The Handmaids Tale, the Toronto- and Hamilton-shot television series based on Margaret Atwoods dystopian novel, cleaned up at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday night, winning major awards in the drama category.

The show won Best Drama Series, Elisabeth Moss won Lead Actress in a Drama Series and Ann Dowd was honoured as Best Supporting Actor. The series also took awards for Best Drama Writing and Best Directing.

The Hulu series stars Moss as one of the few fertile women left in a world ruled by a totalitarian regime that treats women as property.

The win Sunday is a major coup for Hulu  the show is the streaming services first Emmy-nominated drama series.

The cast and producers were joined onstage by Atwood, who received loud applause when she appeared on stage.

For much of the rest of the show, the ghost of Donald Trump loomed large, despite the fact the U.S. president was not in the audience.

Actor Elisabeth Moss and author Margaret Atwood with cast and crew of "The Handmaid's Tale" accept the Outstanding Drama Series award onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards.























Canadian Lorne Michaels, the creator of a newly resurgent Saturday Night Live, which has taken pointed swings at the presidency, won an early award for outstanding variety sketch series. As did Alec Baldwin for his demented imitation of Trump, and Kate McKinnon for her sly portrayal of Hilary Clinton.

I remember the first time we won this award, Michaels told the audience. It was after the first seaon in 1976. I remember thinking  that this was it. This is the highpoint. There would never be a season as crazy, as unpredictable, or as exhausting or exhilarating. Turns out I was wrong.

Baldwin, meanwhile, raised his Emmy high in the air and proclaimed: At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy in reference to the fact that Trump had long claimed the Emmys were rigged for not giving him an award for The Celebrity Apprentice, which he produces.

McKinnon thanked Clinton as the music started to cut her off: On a personal note I want to thank Hilary Clinton for her grace and grit.

Melissa McCarthy was honoured at last weekends creative arts Emmys as best guest actress for her SNL work, including portraying Sean Spicer. The former White House press secretary made a surprise Emmys appearance, wheeling in his own podium. This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys. Period. Both in person and around the world, he said, a reference to his claim, while Trump spokesperson, that the inauguration crowd on Jan. 20 was the largest in history.

Another early Canadian winner was Quebec director Jean-Marc Vallee, (Wild, Dallas Buyers Club), who won the outstanding directing Emmy for a Limited Series for HBOs Big Little Lies. The show also won outstanding supporting actor and actress for Alexander Skarsgard and Laura Dern. I thank you girls for making me look good like this said Vallee in reference to stars including Reese Witherspoon, Zoe Kravitz and Nicole Kidman.

This is quite an honor, said Vallee, who also thanked writer David E. Kelley for the brilliance in his writing.

Stephen Colberts song-and-dance opening and monologue celebrated TV and repeatedly tweaked Trump, including the presidents assertion that he should have won an Emmy for Celebrity Apprentice. His subsequent presidency was the fault of TV voters, Colbert said. He also called the president the biggest TV star of the past year.

John Lithgow, who received the best supporting drama actor for his role as British leader Winston Churchill in The Crown, took a more diplomatic approach to political commentary.

Most of all I have to thank Winston Churchill. In these crazy times, his life, even as an old man, reminds us what courage and leadership in government really looks like, Lithgow said.

Ann Dowd of The Handmaids Tale was honoured as Best Supporting Actor in a drama. The series also took awards for Best Drama Writing and Directing.

Lena Waithe became the first African-American woman to win an Emmy for comedy series writing, for Master of None, sharing the award with series co-creator Aziz Ansari, who is of Indian heritage.

The things that make us different, those are superpowers, Waithe said. Thank you for embracing a little Indian boy from South Carolina and a little queer black girl from the south side of Chicago, she said, basking in a standing ovation from the theatre audience.

TV academy president and CEO Hayma Washington paid tribute to TVs increasing diversity. Thats reflected in the record number of African-American continuing series acting nominees, but Latinos were overlooked and Ansari was the only Asian-American contender.

Donald Glover won the best comedy actor Emmy Award for Atlanta, which he created and which carries his distinctive voice, while Julia Louis-Dreyfus was honoured Sunday for a sixth time for her role as a self-absorbed politician in the comedy Veep, named best comedy for the third time.

I want to thank Trump for making black people No. 1 on the most oppressed list. Hes the reason Im probably up here, Glover said, acknowledging the entertainment industrys and the Emmys tilt toward the political under Trump.

Combined with Emmys that Louis-Dreyfus has won for Seinfeld and New Adventures of Old Christine, her latest trophy tied her with Cloris Leachman as the most-winning Emmy performer ever.

Before the show started, This Is Us stars Sterling K. Brown and Ron Cephas Jones were among the Emmy Awards nominees playing it cool as they arrived.

The actors paused for photographs and interviews on the red carpet, which for the first time was tented and air conditioned to provide relief from the usually warm September weather in Los Angeles.

Brown won an Emmy last year for playing O.J. Simpson prosecutor Christopher Darden in the limited series The People v O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story, and this time is up for best drama actor for the NBC drama.

It does feel different but for different reasons. Im the first African-American in 16 years nominated. That kind of blows my mind, he said.

Andre Braugher, who was the last Black actor to get a nod in the category, for Gideons Crossing in 2001, also was the last one to claim top drama performance honours, for Homicide: Life on the Street in 1998.

Another This Is Us star, Chris Sullivan, made a fashion statement with a top hat, cane and purple bow tie. He wasnt alone in going for a bold look  Jeremy Maguire from Modern Family vamped in a purple cape  while Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae dazzled with sophisticated, brightly colored gowns.

Jackie Hoffman, nominated for the FX series Feud: Bette and Joan said she was less freak-out nervous after all the pre-Emmy festivities were over and she was finally at the big show.

Politics couldnt help but make its way onto the Emmy Awards stage, especially since host Stephen Colbert noted that President Donald Trump was the biggest TV star of the past year.

In fact, Colbert blamed the Emmys for Trumps election as president. He suggested if Trump had won an Emmy for Celebrity Apprentice, he might not have run for president. He showed a clip of a presidential debate where Trump said he should have won an Emmy.

But he noted that, unlike the presidency, an Emmy goes to the winner of the popular vote.

Colbert, whose Late Show is a regular forum on the Trump administration, said last week that the president is fair game during the awards show.

Read more about:

SHARE:
Canadian writer Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale was the talk of this years Emmy Awards, but five other moments got social media buzzing during the broadcast.

A reunion of the leading ladies from the 1980 film 9 to 5, an appearance from Sean Spicer, and Saturday Night Lives comedy award sweep generated a lot of interest, not to mention near-constant references to U.S. President Donald Trump.

Stephen Colbert hosted a politically-charged 69th Emmy Awards, which included big wins for "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Veep" and featured a surprise guest appearance from former White House press secretary Sean Spicer. (The Associated Press)

Here are some of the highlights:

U.S. POLITICS, TRUMP AND SPICER

U.S. politics was at the forefront during the opening monologue delivered by host Stephen Colbert. Colbert jabbed at Trump repeatedly before throwing to a surprise appearance by Sean Spicer, Trumps former press secretary who resigned in July. Spicer made references to the size of the Emmy crowd, a play on his statements following Trumps January inauguration.

Read more: The Handmaids Tale cleans up at Emmy Awards

SNL LEADS COMEDY

Late-night sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live made headlines for their coverage of Trumps election against Hillary Clinton in 2016, an effort that led to the show raking in Emmy gold.

Performer Kate McKinnon, who frequently parodied Clinton on SNL, won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, while guest performer Alec Baldwin, who parodied Trump, won Outstanding Supporting Actor.

Baldwin got his digs in at the Presidents eight separate Emmy losses, joking at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy.

McKinnon praised Clinton for her grace and grit in her speech.

SNL was later awarded the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series, as well as six other Emmys. The show had been nominated for 22 awards.

9 to 5

Fans were overjoyed to see an on-stage reunion with Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda who starred together in the 1980 comedy film 9 to 5 about three working women who overthrow their companys sexist boss.

Like others throughout the night, the trio took on Trump, saying back in 1980, in [9 to 5], we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot, and in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.

Tomlin and Fonda currently star in the Netflix series Grace & Frankie. The appearance of the trio sparked speculation at the possibility of a reunion.

HISTORIC WINS

Donald Glover and Lena Waithe make history for their wins.

Glover took home Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series for his work on Atlanta. It was the first ever win for a Black director. He also won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, the first time in 32 years a person of colour won the award.

Waithe is the first Black woman to win for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series for her work on Master of None, which she co-wrote alongside comic Aziz Ansari.

The things that make us different, those are our superpowers, she said, addressing her LGBTQIA family. Every day when you walk out the door, put on your imaginary cape and go out there and conquer the world.

IN MEMORIAM

The Emmys In Memoriam segment was a reminder of a tough year of heartbreak, with fans and attendees mourning the loss of some of Hollywoods brightest stars, including actresses Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, the mother-daughter duo who died a day apart in December.

Others recognized included Mary Tyler Moore, John Hurt, Don Rickles, Alan Thicke, Jerry Lewis, Adam West, Glen Campbell, Miguel Ferrer, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Florence Henderson, John Heard, Jay Thomas and Bill Paxton.

Recap: 2017 Emmy Awards

Read more about:

SHARE:
HAMILTONWith competing chants and placards, a roving group of drummers and some old-time singalongs, the four candidates vying for the federal NDP leadership made their final cases to the party faithful Sunday afternoon.

The leadership showcase featured video presentations and speeches from contenders Charlie Angus, Niki Ashton, Guy Caron and Jagmeet Singh, who each argued they have the right mix of policy and personality to defeat Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and bring the NDP to government in 2019.

But the event was shadowed by internal party strife over proposed legislation in Quebec that would ban religious face coverings  such as the niqab  from people giving or receiving public services. One of the partys Quebec MPs, Pierre Nantel, threatened to quit the party this week if the next leader doesnt respect Quebecs decision-making on the issue. He then told Radio-Canada on Saturday that people in Quebec dont want to see any ostentatious religious symbols. We think that is not compatible with power, with authority.

Read more:

The NDP and the road back to relevance: Tim Harper

The four candidates who would lead the NDP

Jack Layton led the NDP to a breakthrough, but can any of the four leadership candidates recreate the Orange Wave?

The comment resonated through the campaign in part because Singh, who has raised more money than his opponents and boasts bringing 47,000 new members to the party, is a practising Sikh who wears a turban and kirpan, the ceremonial dagger.

In his speech Sunday, Caron, the MP for Rimouski and the only candidate from Quebec, made a direct appeal to Singh, telling him from the stage that you have a place in our party and in my Quebec.

Caron brought the debate over Quebecs legislation into the race in August, when he claimed that he would respect the provincial legislatures decision on the religious symbols ban even though he personally opposes it. Caron argued Sunday that the issue may be uncomfortable, but the NDP must participate in the discussion to be relevant in Quebec politics, a province he maintains will be key to success in the 2019 election.

I simply couldnt take the easy road and leave these challenges for another day, Caron said.

The four NDP leadership candidates are making their final case to party voters before balloting begins on Monday. National caucus chair Daniel Blaikie says the NDP will advocate for the same issues regardless of who becomes leader.

The NDP holds 16 seats in Quebec, after wining 59 in its historic breakthrough in the province in 2011 under Jack Layton.

Singh  squarely opposed to the legislation, even while acknowledging the federal government might not be able to stop it  said Sunday he is not concerned by challenges over his religion and appearance, and that he expects to win support in Quebec by conveying his social democratic convictions.

Im not here to convince you to accept my turban or my beard, he said in French during his showcase. I want to convince you that Im someone who shares the same values as you.

Caron also vowed to change the electoral system in his first act as prime minister, and pitched his basic income plan, which would deliver payouts to low-income Canadians to ensure no one lives below the poverty line. Singh, meanwhile, promised to institute a federal ban on racial profiling, which he later clarified could apply to federal agencies such as the RCMP.

Angus emphasized his work for Indigenous children; his portion of the event featured support from Serena Koostachin, who told the audience that the northern Ontario MP helped her 13-year-old sister, Shannen, bring attention to the dilapidated schoolhouse in their hometown of Attawapiskat.

You and your sister taught me and the nation that Indigenous youth have incredible power to make change. And this is why I am here. To be a partner. To be an ally, Angus said.

He also argued that the real division in Canadian society is economic, and that he can bring together people from different backgrounds and regions in the country. People have the power to make change, and we are going to bring that change to Ottawa, he said.

Ashtons showcase made the case that her progressive proposals, such as free tuition and pharmacare, will bring young voters to the NDP and help the party win government in 2019.

Justin Trudeau, if you are listening, I have a message for you: Enjoy being prime minister while it lasts, she said. Canadians know that only the NDP will bring real change.

Party members will begin voting by ranked ballot on Monday. Results will be unveiled each Sunday in October  with the potential for members to revote online each week  until a candidate gets at least 50-per-cent support.

Read more about:

SHARE:
ANTIGONISH, N.S.  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remembered Allan MacEachen as a once-in-a-lifetime calibre cabinet minister who helped transform Canada into the country of its citizens dreams.

Politicians of various generations were among the crowd at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish on Sunday to commemorate MacEachen, who died at the age of 96 last week.

Speakers at the memorial service described the long-serving Liberal MP and senator from Nova Scotia as a consummate public servant whose mix of political savvy and devotion to his constituents helped usher in some of the most ambitious Canadian social reforms of the postwar era.

Whether they credit him or not, Canadians are living in the country that Allan J. built, and they like it, Trudeau told the crowd. Let us honour him by recommitting ourselves as Canadians to continuing his lifes work of hard things done well.

His lifes work  a Canada in which good enough is never good enough, and better is always possible.

Former prime minister Jean Chretien was among the honorary pallbearers as Mounties in serge carried a flag-draped coffin into the auditorium to the wail of bagpipes, the musician having flown in from Scotland in keeping with MacEachens last wishes.

Mounties carried the flag-draped casket of Allan MacEachen from the auditorium St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish to the wail of bagpipes, the musician having flown in from Scotland in keeping with MacEachens last wishes.





The prime minister bowed his head before MacEachens coffin as he took to the stage in a tartan tie honouring his own Scottish heritage.

Trudeau said MacEachen receives too little credit for helping his father, Pierre, execute their shared vision for Canada when he was prime minister.

MacEachen was the legislative muscle behind many Canadian social programs, including the creation of medicare in the 1960s, he said.

The political allies were a match made in heaven, said Trudeau, their friendship founded on the bedrock belief that all people are created equal.

He also understood that making change happen is difficult, especially when its aim is to give power and resources to the people, Trudeau said.

This Canada existed only in Canadians hopes and dreams when Allan MacEachen entered politics in 1953. By the time he left in 1996, it was a fact of life, taken for granted.

Former Ontario premier Bob Rae said MacEachens life was an eloquent testimony to the trials and rewards of public service, describing his former parliamentary colleague  and sometimes adversary  as a gladiator with a flare for the political stage, but a reserved private life.

(Politics) brought him out of himself. It allowed him to relish the foibles and strengths of those around him, Rae said. He knew that politics was not for the squeamish or weak of spirit.

His life is a reminder that people matter, and that history is not a dance of abstract categories, but its about real people of flesh and blood.

Born in Inverness on Cape Breton Island in 1921, MacEachen  who spoke fluent Gaelic  brought Nova Scotian values to the halls of Ottawa, said the provinces Premier Stephen McNeil.

MacEachen served in a variety of cabinet posts during his decades-long political tenure, holding portfolios in finance, external affairs and national health and welfare.

He won five elections in the Inverness-Richmond riding, and another five representing Cape Breton-Highlands Canso.

MacEachen ran an unsuccessful campaign for the Liberal leadership in 1968, but served as the partys interim leader during the elder Trudeaus brief political hiatus in 1979.

He also served as deputy prime minister and was appointed to the Senate in 1984. He was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2008.

MacEachen is to be buried in Inverness this week following a funeral service in the hometown church in which he was baptized.

SHARE:
MONTREALA 41-year-old man who was the subject of an Amber Alert involving his six-year-old boy was charged on Monday in the slaying of the childs mother.

The single charge of second-degree murder was filed at the courthouse in Saint-Jerome, Que. It is unclear, however, when the suspect will appear in court as he is hospitalized in Ontario after an alleged suicide attempt.

Police issued an Amber Alert on Thursday after the boys mother was found dead inside a home in Saint-Eustache, Que., north of Montreal.

Read more:

Amber alert case ends with Quebec man arrested in Ontario

Father of Quebec boy who was subject of Amber Alert sustains injuries in custody

Father of boy in Amber Alert still in Ontario hospital

The child and his father were stopped by police in eastern Ontario nearly 24 hours later.

A spokesperson with Quebecs provincial police said a prisoner transfer will take place when the suspects health permits.

Pierre Gauthier, the suspects lawyer, said his client was in a coma and doesnt know if he regained consciousness.

Meanwhile, authorities in Quebec are continuing their search for a missing 71-year-old man whose vehicle was used in connection with the childs disappearance.

There has been no word from Yvon Lacasse since his car was stolen late Thursday at a rest area in Lachute, Que.

Police found the boy in Lacasses stolen vehicle on Friday and arrested the childs father.

Officers on Monday looked for the missing man with the use of a helicopter.

They searched a 500-kilometre stretch of highway between Mont-Tremblant and Rouyn-Noranda.

Co-ordinating searches along a highway with citizens is dangerous, so were using the chopper and some specially trained members of the force, said Quebec provincial police Lt. Martine Asselin.

Asselin said police are asking citizens in all the areas the suspect visited while on the lam to keep an eye out for Lacasse.

An intensive search with volunteers over the weekend in Lacasses hometown of Lachute, about 80 kilometres northwest of Montreal, turned up no signs of the 71-year-old.

Lacasse is described as bald with brown eyes, five feet, five inches tall, and weighs roughly 100 pounds.

Quebec police said they are also looking for a bearded male witness in his 40s apparently seen with the suspect on Thursday night in Rouyn-Noranda.

An Ontario couple who witnessed the arrest of the father in the Amber Alert case said the details are still vivid.

The suspect was caught by police in their backyard.

Barb Friske of Dacre, southwest of Renfrew, Ont., said she was washing dishes when she heard a sound.

It sounded like someone coming into our yard with a flat tire, she said Monday.

A vehicle went through a ditch and came to a stop at a rock fence on their property.

She and her husband were about to help the occupants when they heard a police helicopter overhead followed by a heavily armed officer yelling at them to get inside the house.

Ontario police were eventually able to subdue the suspect.

Friske said she knew about the Amber Alert, but had last heard the man was spotted nearly 90 minutes away in Napanee, Ont.

When we saw the young lad and the father come out of the backyard, thats when everything clicked, Friske said.

Friske said she saw the young boy only briefly. He was crying and she offered him a frozen treat to calm him.

The Ontario provincial police said the boy was handed over to Quebec youth protection.

Read more about:

SHARE:
NDP leadership contender Charlie Angus isnt ruling out his support for future oil pipelines, but says new resource projects should only go ahead if they are approved under a more robust environmental review system that properly consults Indigenous communities and doesnt make Canada miss its emissions targets.

The fact is, without social licence, projects are not going to go ahead, Angus said Monday during a meeting with the Stars editorial board.

The veteran MP from northern Ontario did not say Indigenous communities should have a veto over resource projects, such as oil pipelines. But he said it is up to the government to ensure projects have their support.

Read more:

Is Jagmeet Singh poised to become NDP leader?: Hebert

NDP leadership contenders make final pitches

Jack Layton led the NDP to a breakthrough, but can any of the four leadership candidates recreate the Orange Wave?

Industry understands that they need social licence on the ground, Angus said when asked about veto rights on resource projects.

If government was at the table the way industry has been at the table, we would probably be in a much different position than we are right now.

So  the bigger the project, the more the risk, the more the social licence. Thats how its going to work out.

Oil pipelines have become a divisive issue in the national NDP, with factions of the party that govern in British Columbia and Alberta holding opposing viewpoints on the $7.4 billion Trans Mountain expansion project that the Liberal government approved last year.

Angus, like each of his rivals in the race to lead the federal party, is against Trans Mountain as it stands now. Quebec MP Guy Caron and Ontario MPP Jagmeet Singh have taken similar positions; they would back pipelines only with the consent of Indigenous communities and after the National Energy Board review process is revamped.

Niki Ashton, a Manitoba MP also in the running, takes credit for calling on her opponents to take a stand against the Trans Mountain and Energy East projects. She has vowed to block new pipelines and ensure Indigenous peoples have a veto over projects in their territory.

In his meeting with the Stars editorial board Monday morning, Angus discussed his plan for the environment which includes a legislated cap on greenhouse gas emissions to make sure Canada actually meets its targets under the international Paris climate accord.

The current targets, which were set by Stephen Harpers Conservative government and kept by the current Liberals, arent strict enough, Angus said. But he wants to create an independent board of experts to set Canadas target and then pass a law that would bind industries to certain emissions caps.

It is that regime, combined with better environmental reviews and consultation with Indigenous peoples and affected communities, that would determine which resource projects Angus would support.

Even in a low-carbon future, we need copper, we need aluminum. The Ring of Fire (mineral) project will still be needed. And we will need oil, he said.

We have to talk about transportation. Certainly trains are a very  I think  unwise way to move heavy bitumen, particularly since they move through so many urban areas. So we have to look at the review process.

Angus has worked as the NDPs critic for Indigenous Affairs and says the Indigenous and Northern Affairs Department represents a broken system that needs to be dismantled. He also called for an audit of spending in areas such as health and education to get an exact idea of the shortfalls for Indigenous communities.

The inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, which is plagued by delays and opposition from affected families, should also be restarted  perhaps with new commissioners leading the way  and should include a probe of police conduct in past cases, he said.

And he quibbled with the Trudeau governments claim to be working for the middle class, and argued that he sees a new working class of white-collar workers making low wages in contract jobs who have trouble paying the bills.

Read more about:

SHARE:
OTTAWAAung San Suu Kyi must publicly condemn the atrocities being committed against Rohingya Muslims in Burma, or else her rhetoric and global reputation as a champion of human rights will mean nothing, says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

It is with profound surprise, disappointment and dismay that your fellow Canadians have witnessed your continuing silence in the face of the brutal oppression of Myanmars (Burmas) Rohingya Muslim people, Trudeau wrote Monday in a letter to Suu Kyi, the de facto leader of Burma.

The powerful military in Burma is accused of burning down the homes of Rohingya Muslims, forcing more than 400,000 members of the persecuted minority to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh, according to the latest UN figures.

Read more:

India says it has evidence there are extremists among Rohingya Muslims

What Canada must do about the human rights crisis in Burma

Burmas leader has one last chance to stop Rohingya crisis, UN chief says

Suu Kyi, an honorary Canadian citizen and a long-celebrated Nobel Peace Prize winner, has come in for withering international criticism for failing to stop  or even speak out against  the violence.

The letter from Trudeau, which follows a telephone call last week, outlines the reports of what Zeid Raad al-Hussein, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, recently called a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, including extrajudicial killings, burning villages and landmines.

It was released publicly Monday after the prime minister made reference to it in a joint news conference in Ottawa with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

As the de facto democratic leader of Burma and as a renowned advocate for human rights, you have a particular moral and political obligation to speak out against this appalling cruelty, and to do whatever is in your power to stop it, he wrote.

By publicly condemning the violence and taking immediate steps to protect and defend the rights of all minorities, you can help guide the people of (Burma) to surmount these deep ethnic divisions.

Trudeau also outlined further steps he would like the Burma government and military to take, calling on the Burma security forces to end the violence and bring the perpetrators to justice through independent and impartial investigations.

He also asked the Burma government to publicly welcome the return of all Rohingya refugees, alongside a commitment to address the issue of their citizenship, equality and human rights.

The prime minister also asked the Burma government to provide the UN and international humanitarian agencies full access to the region.

Officials, speaking on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the issue, say the federal government is reluctant to overtly blame Suu Kyi, fearing elements in Burmas military want to use the crisis to undermine her democratic goals.

The Liberal government has been coming under increasing pressure from advocates to strip Suu Kyi of her honorary Canadian citizenship  an issue Trudeau did not address either in the letter or when asked about it Monday.

But he did quote Suu Kyis 2012 Nobel lecture, in which she spoke of the value of kindness.

These are laudable words, Trudeau wrote.

In order for them, and your various honours, to retain any meaning, you must defend the Rohingya Muslims and other ethnic minorities in (Burma).

SHARE:
HALIFAXThe Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission has selected an independent expert to examine the use of police street checks in Halifax.

Scot Wortley has a doctorate in sociology and has been a professor at the Centre of Criminology at the University of Toronto since 1996.

He is a published author on issues surrounding race and crime. Wortley has also worked with the Ontario governments Anti-Racism Directorate to develop standards for the collection and dissemination of race-based data within the public sector.

Read more:

Nova Scotia social justice advocates call for suspension of street checks

Police numbers show Black men 3 times more likely to be street checked in Halifax

Halifax Regional Police released data earlier this year that showed black men in Halifax were three times more likely than whites to be subject to police street checks.

The January report from the Halifax RCMP found that in the first 10 months of 2016, 41 per cent of 1,246 street checks involved African-Nova Scotians  even though they comprise only 3.6 per cent of the municipal population.

The commission has since been in discussions with the police force, the police complaints commissioner and the Serious Incident Response Team, which is an independent police watchdog agency.

Obviously were concerned about allegations of racial profiling and discrimination in police street checks, Christine Hanson, CEO of the commission, said in a statement. We look forward to working closely with all parties to address any potential issues once Mr. Wortley has presented his findings.

Halifax Regional Police Chief Jean-Michel Blais has said he expects new policies on street checks to be in place this fall.

Read more about:

SHARE:
Toronto police have identified a suspect who they believe is one of two gunmen seen in surveillance video of an April shooting death.

Leonard Pinnock, 33, of Hamilton, was shot dead as he sat in his car in a parking lot at Dufferin St. and Bowie Ave. on the night of April 21.

At a news conference Monday, investigators said they think one of the men seen in the video is Akil Whyte, 24, of Toronto.

Whyte is now wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for first-degree murder.

Every police officer in the City of Toronto has your photograph, homicide squad Det.-Sgt. Joyce Schertzer told the news conference, urging Whyte to hire a lawyer and turn himself in.

Its only a matter of time before you are apprehended.

Whyte is also wanted on a charge of conspiring to traffic cocaine. That charge stems from Project Kronic, a series of raids in June across 20 police jurisdictions in Ontario which targeted an alleged street gang called the Driftwood Crips.

After the Project Kronic raids, 120 people were charged with more than 660 offences related to drugs, firearm trafficking, kidnapping conspiracies and attempted murders.

Police attempts to find Whyte have been unsuccessful so far. Schertzer said investigators believe those close to Whyte know where he is, and urged anyone who may be helping him to come forward.

Whyte is from Toronto and has family here, said Schertzer.

If anyone is considering offering Akil Whyte assistance in evading arrest, I would caution them that there are criminal consequences to offering him aid in that regard, she said.

On the night he died, Pinnock was in Toronto after giving a friend a ride to Dufferin St. and Bowie Ave., in the Fairbank area.

As Pinnock sat on the drivers side of his car, two gunmen ran up and fired as many as 10 bullets at him before dashing away. The attack appeared to be choreographed, Schertzer said in May.

Pinnock worked as a courier, cut hair and DJed under the name Champ Juve. He was the father of a young daughter.

Schertzer said police couldnt find anything in Pinnocks background to suggest a motive, and investigators werent ruling out the possibility that the Hamilton man was mistaken for someone else.

On Monday, Schertzer wouldnt answer questions about Pinnocks friend. I do know his friend and were going to leave it at that, she said.

In May, Toronto police released a video of the shooting in the hopes of identifying the two gunmen. They havent yet identified the second man, who wearing a darker-coloured hoodie than the person who police allege is Whyte.

In June, a resident of a home on Bowie Ave. nearby found a 9mm semi-automatic handgun in his backyard that police said may have been used in the shooting. The homeowner also found a black Nike hoodie and Gucci bag, which police also said they believe is related.

Schertzer told media the gun looked decrepit, but was fully functional, as the homeowner found out when he accidentally fired it. No one was hurt, and police said they were checking the gun for fingerprints.

Schertzer said she believes Whyte is armed and dangerous.

Were anxious to learn his whereabouts, she said. If I had any idea where he was, Id be there myself to apprehend him.

SHARE:
Consumers have a conflicted relationship with chicken produced in this country.

On one hand, chicken is being devoured at record levels. In the past five years, per capita consumption here has climbed to 32.5 kilograms from 29.7 kilograms. Its a trend: weve been steadily eating more chicken here since the 1960s, when per capita consumption was just 10 kilograms.

Why so much?

Read more: Checking in on the neighbourhood beef farmers: The New Farm

Well, among other reasons, chicken is versatile, affordable, nutritious, low in fat and high in quality.

Yet despite growing consumption, we repeatedly question farmers approach to chicken production. This is due in part to scurrilous fast-food campaigns that imply competitors chicken is saddled with all kinds of nasty things, such as antibiotics or hormones.

The hormone accusation is a red herring. Canadian chicken hasnt received hormones in more than a half century.

Antibiotics, though, are another story. And farmers are addressing it.

Heres the story. In just 39 days, chickens grow from 35-gram chicks to 2.35-kilogram market-size chickens. Thats a result of years of research into breeding, feed and behaviour. As well, chickens are excellent at converting their feed into muscle. But they need to stay healthy to realize such growth.

Farmers discovered ages ago that chickens given a small preventative dose of antibiotics grow faster and have less disease problems than those raised antibiotic-free.

Antibiotics also reduce salmonella and campylobacter bacteria in the chickens intestines. These bacteria are harmful to humans; during processing, they can be released, contaminating the carcass and making people sick.

Chickens receive no antibiotics in the last fifth of their lives. That way, their systems can clear out whatever residual antibiotics are there.

But through the years, repeated antibiotic use has resulted in some bacteria developing resistance.

Efforts are underway to address the problem. In 2014, Canadian chicken farmers stopped using Category 1 antibiotics. In July, they announced they were discontinuing Category 2, and further, that theyd stop using Category 3 by the end of 2020.

After that, theyll use them only as therapeutics when a chicken gets sick.

Theyre also trying alternatives, such as poultry probiotics developed by a team led by Prof. Shayan Sharif at the University of Guelph.

Probiotics are preventative medicine, made from the microbes that naturally inhabit the chickens gut. They get mixed with chickens feed or water. Chickens that consume them benefit from enhanced disease immunity and better health.

Sharif, founder of the national Poultry Health Research Network, figures his poultry probiotics are about two to three years away from market, pending timely government approval.

Meanwhile, chicken farmers such as Dennis Steinwand, of Sherwood Park, Alta., are working out ways to cope with consumer pressure. Steinwand produces 100,000 chickens about seven times a year, and welcomes access to new production approaches that are more consumer friendly.

Farmers look forward to research-based technologies like probiotics, he says. Were a family farm and we care about the well-being of our animals. Were constantly fighting a public perception that agriculture is bad, and on an emotional level, thats challenging.

Super Size Me 2: Wheres the beef?

Canadas chicken industry was expecting a dust up when Super Size Me 2 debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival last week. In it, star Morgan Spurlock goes underground to start a fast-food chicken franchise. Critics said ho hum. Unlike the original, which beat up McDonalds, the focus is less intense.

Thank you readers, farmers and researchers

This column marks the end of The New Farm series. Thanks to everyone involved  editors, photographers, researchers, commodity groups and, most of all, to the farmers who let us into their lives. Feedback we received shows theres no question, readers want to know more about food production.

Owen Roberts is an agricultural journalist at the University of Guelph, and president of the 5,000-member International Federation of Agricultural Journalists. Follow him on Twitter @TheUrbanCowboy or contact him by email at urbancowboycanada@gmail.com .

SHARE:
Former prime minister Brian Mulroney is shaking the trees to help Progressive Conservative Leader Patrick Brown topple Premier Kathleen Wynnes Liberals next year.

Mulroney, in government from 1984 to 1993, sent out a fundraising letter to would-be donors on Monday that highlighted his green credentials as he appealed for their green.

Ontario needs Patrick Brown and new leadership, he wrote, noting his missive came 33 years and one day after he was sworn in as prime minister.

During my time in office, Im proud of what our Progressive Conservatives accomplished. We built a stronger economy and created a cleaner, healthier environment for Canadians to live in. And Im especially proud we did both at the same time, continued Mulroney.

You see, the economy and the environment arent mutually exclusive. Good economic policy and good environmental policy go hand-in-hand. Many believe this cant be the case. Yet my government brought in a free trade agreement and an acid rain treaty with the United States, he said.

The former is a reason why Canada is now among the most prosperous nations on Earth, the latter is a reason why I was voted Canadas greenest prime minister in history.

Mulroney  whose daughter, Caroline, will be the Tory candidate in York-Simcoe in the June 7, 2018 election  pointed out Patrick shares my vision for pragmatic, progressive conservatism.

Its why Im proud to support him in his mission to form a PC government in 2018. Im asking you to support him, too, he said, urging people to donate between $25 and $100 to the campaign.

Every dollar will help bring new leadership for Ontario in 2018.

While Mulroney is a controversial figure in some circles due to past problems, he is well-respected among Tories for his tax reforms, environmental work, and for being a leader in the fight against South Africas racist apartheid policies.

Long a mentor to Brown, he confirmed to the Star last year that they are old friends.

Walied Soliman, the PC campaign chair, said Mulroneys imprimatur is important to Brown.

It was Brian Mulroneys principled stand on acid rain and his leadership on free trade that drew Patrick Brown into politics. This makes Mr. Mulroneys endorsement of Patricks leadership so meaningful, said Soliman.

While we look to building a brighter future for Ontario with his daughter Caroline running under the PC banner, we will look to the past service of the former prime minister as an important example of leadership on the economy and environment that are as important today as ever.

While Brown is awaiting his partys November convention in Toronto to roll out the Tories environmental plans, he said last week that climate change is man-made and we have to do our part.

Read more about:

SHARE:
Just because Donald Trump got away with lying about Hillary Clinton doesnt mean that tactic will work in Ontario, warns Premier Kathleen Wynne.

Last week, Patrick Brown made a statement about me that was false and defamatory, Wynne told reporters Monday at Queens Park.

In the days that followed, he, disappointingly, did not retract those comments, said the premier, who has given Brown six weeks to apologize or she may launch a defamation suit against him.

Were going to govern ourselves by the timeline set by the Libel and Slander Act, and I think well let the lawyers go through that process in the interim, she said.

But Wynne, who publicly supported Clinton over Trump, made it clear that she did not wish to see a reprise of the tone of last years U.S. presidential election in the 2018 Ontario campaign.

Lets just hope and pray that thats not the level of political debate that were going to have here in Ontario or in Canada. I deplore any behaviour that isnt based on truth . . . thats defamatory and doesnt deal in honest interaction, the premier said.

And so, no matter who it is, whether its the president or whether its the leader of the opposition in Ontario, I dont think that behaviour belongs in politics. There are lots of differing opinions without us descending into dishonesty and defamation, she said.

Browns office reiterated Monday that the leader would continue to ignore Wynnes legal threats, which he has repeatedly dismissed as baseless.

Last Tuesday, on the eve of her testimony as a Crown witness in the Sudbury byelection bribery case, the Tory chief said Ontario had a sitting premier sitting in trial and that Wynne stands trial.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne says she wanted to take the witness stand Wednesday to be as open as possible at a bribery trial involving a former top adviser and a Liberal fundraiser. (The Canadian Press)

In fact, Patricia Sorbara, the premiers former deputy chief of staff, and Liberal activist Gerry Lougheed are on trial for alleged Election Act violations related to the 2015 byelection. Both deny any wrongdoing.

Wynnes lawyer, Jack Siegel, last Wednesday served Brown with a letter stating that he made a statement about the premier of Ontario that is false and defamatory.

Contrary to your statement, Premier Wynne is not standing trial. Your statement is false and misleading and appears to have been made with the intention to harm the reputation of Ms. Wynne, the lawyer wrote, giving the PC leader until 5 p.m. Thursday to apologize.

That deadline came and went and on Friday, the premiers office said they would give Brown until Oct. 24 before determining their next course of action.

Senior Conservative officials insist the leader does not need to apologize, despite calls from newspaper editorialists and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath, among others.

But the gaffe has given the Liberals a golden opportunity to paint Brown as a Trumpian fabulist.

Deputy Premier Deb Matthews was the first to pounce on his snafu and draw the American parallel.

There is a principle in Canada that you do not make defamatory, misleading comments about another political leader, Matthews said last Thursday.

In Canada, we actually expect people to be honest. There is, south of the border, a change in that culture. I do not want to see that change coming to Canada.

Read more about:

SHARE:
NANTUCKET, MASS.Chelsea Manning told a crowd at a creative thinkers conference in Nantucket on Sunday that shes not an American traitor as her critics have claimed and she did what she thought was the right thing to do.

Manning attended the annual conference for the Nantucket Project in Massachusetts. The Nantucket Project is a venture founded to bring together creative thinkers to uncover the ideas that matter most. Organizers say about 600 people attended.

This was one of Mannings first public appearances since being released from a military prison in May.

I believe I did the best I could in my circumstances to make an ethical decision, she told the crowd when asked by the moderator if she was a traitor.

The 29-year-old Manning is a transgender woman who was known as Bradley Manning when she was convicted in 2013 of leaking a trove of classified documents. She was released from a military prison in May after serving seven years of a 35-year sentence, which was commuted by former U.S. president Barack Obama in his final days in office.

Tom Scott, who co-founded the Nantucket Project with Kate Brosnan, said they invited Manning for clarity of understanding.

My brother and father are Marines. They would respectfully challenge some of her decisions, he said. Barack Obama commuted her sentence. My instinct is that hes a good and trustful man. How do those two things mix? Seeing her in person offers, perhaps, the best way to decipher that.

Several audience members said they were intrigued to hear from Manning. Sara OReilly, a Nantucket resident who has attended several past conferences, said the speakers are typically a little edgy. She said she doesnt judge Manning and other people have done far worse things. Bonnie Roseman, of West Palm Beach, Fla., said after the talk that Manning is courageous.

Scott said some people were upset that Manning was invited, but he didnt consider retracting the invitation. Harvard University reversed its decision to name Manning a visiting fellow Friday, a day after CIA Director Mike Pompeo scrapped a planned appearance over the title for Manning. Pompeo called Manning an American traitor.

Manning said Harvards decision signalled to her that its a police state and its not possible to engage in actual political discourse in academic institutions.

Im not ashamed of being disinvited, she said. I view that just as much of an honoured distinction as the fellowship itself.

Eugene Jarecki, an award-winning documentary director, moderated the discussion. He asked Manning if it reflects something about the state of our time that shes still the subject of pressure by the CIA on Harvard and labelled a traitor.

Manning said she took a risk to contribute to political and public discourse and change the tone of the conversation, but it hasnt changed, and if anything, things have gotten worse.

Im walking out of prison and I see, literally, a dystopian novel unfolding before my eyes, she said. Thats how I feel when I walk in the American streets today.

Manning also talked about the lack of privacy in todays society, calling it dead, as well as the power of civil disobedience and the importance of forgiveness, saying we should forgive everybody at some point. She said shell keep speaking out.

Everybody keeps telling me, Maybe you shouldnt say this. Maybe you shouldnt do this event. Maybe you shouldnt talk. Maybe you shouldnt do this, she said. And Im just like, OK, the fact that youre telling me I shouldnt do this is the reason why I should. And I think thats what we can all do.

Scott said after that while he was still processing what Manning said, he thought it was a great conversation and a valuable use of their time.

Read more:

Chelsea Manning gives first TV interview since leaving prison

Chelsea Manning tweets first steps of freedom after being released from prison

Obamas Chelsea Manning commutation a mistake: DiManno

Read more about:

SHARE:
ST. LOUISProtesters chanting free our people gathered outside the jail in downtown St. Louis on Monday night to show solidarity with those who remain behind bars.

Police said that more than 120 people were arrested during Sundays protests. Demonstrators outside the jail criticized authorities for keeping some of those arrested in jail nearly 24 hours after they were taken into custody. One organizer said over a megaphone that the protesters were prepared to occupy the facility.

Monday was the fourth day of protests over the acquittal of a white former police officer in the killing of a Black suspect. In the morning, a racially mixed crowd of demonstrators marched through downtown.

The latest action follows three days of peaceful protests and three nights of vandalism and unrest in the city that has been rocked since Friday, when a judge announced he found Jason Stockley not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith.

Smiths mother, Anne Smith, was among those gathered outside the downtown jail on Monday.

Hundreds of riot police mobilized downtown late Sunday, arresting more than 120 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism. The arrests came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

Im proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight, Interim Police Chief Lawrence OToole said at a news conference early Monday.

Protesters marched through St. Louis posh Central West End and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City on Friday and Saturday. Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St. Louis County.

On Sunday, more than 1,000 people had gathered at police headquarters and then marched without trouble through downtown St. Louis. By nightfall, most had gone home.

But the 100 or so people who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched back toward downtown. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels, and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers. One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital. His condition wasnt known.

Read more:

St. Louis police arrest more than 80 amid violent protests over police shooting

St. Louis cops acquittal in murder case triggers second day of protests

Protests rekindled in St. Louis after acquittal of cop in killing of a Black man

Soon afterward, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, and police scoured downtown deep into the night, making arrests and seizing at least five weapons, according to OToole. Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a city boulevard chanting whose street, our street  a common refrain used by the protesters  after clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

Were in control. This is our city and were going to protect it, OToole said.

Mayor Lyda Krewson said at the same Monday news conference that the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive and that destruction cannot be tolerated.

Early Monday, more than 150 protesters marched arm-in-arm, some carrying signs, to city hall. Police turned traffic away as the marchers blocked a busy St. Louis street during the rush hour crush. Once at city hall, they found their voices, chanting: I know that we will win. The protesters then marched four blocks to a city court building, where they chanted again, then dispersed. The next protest is scheduled for Monday evening in University City.

Also Monday, high school students in at least two suburban districts protested the Stockley ruling. In Kirkwood, about 100 students walked out and held a brief rally, while 250 students in Webster Groves staged what school officials described as a peaceful demonstration.

The recent St. Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

Protest organizer Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out: While change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression has caused some to turn violent.

I do not say the (unruly) demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best, Bell said.

Many protesters believe police provoked demonstrators by showing up in riot gear and armoured vehicles; police said they had no choice but to protect themselves once protesters started throwing things at them.

Stockley shot Smith after high-speed chase as officers tried to arrest Smith and his partner in a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified he felt endangered because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smiths car after the shooting. The officers DNA was on the weapon but Smiths wasnt. Dashcam video from Stockleys cruiser recorded him saying he was going to kill this (expletive). Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockleys lawyer dismissed the comment as human emotions during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley murdered Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.

Stockley left the police department and moved to Houston three years ago.

SHARE:
WASHINGTONIt is every Washington reporters dream to sit down at a restaurant, overhear secret stuff, and get a scoop. It rarely happens.

Still, everyone in town important enough to have secrets worth keeping knows that secrets are not safe on public transit and in Washington restaurants.

This is especially true in eateries next door to a major newspaper.

Yes, Ty Cobb and John Dowd, lawyers for U.S. President Donald Trump, were talking to you.

But its too late now.

Dowd represents Trump but does not work at the White House. Cobb is a White House employee who is instantly recognizable to many because of his handlebar moustache.

Together, they went for what appears to have been a working lunch at BLT Steak, 1625 I St., NW in Washington. Its close to the White House and very convenient.

Its also next door to 1627 I St., NW, which happens to house the Washington Bureau of the New York Times.

Sitting at the next table, according to the Times, was one of Washingtons most skilful investigative reporters, Kenneth Vogel. Vogel is former reporter for Politico who arrived at the Times just in time for the Russia investigation and, as it turned out, just in time for lunch.

Vogel overheard them talking about White House counsel Donald F. McGhan II and Jared Kushner, president Trumps son-in-law, as well as the infamous Trump Tower meeting.

Heres a sample from the article bearing the bylines of Vogel and Peter Baker:

Mr. Cobb was heard talking about a White House lawyer he deemed a McGahn spy and saying Mr. McGahn had a couple documents locked in a safe that he seemed to suggest he wanted access to. He also mentioned a colleague whom he blamed for some of these earlier leaks, and who he said tried to push Jared out 

The White House Counsels Office is being very conservative with this stuff, Mr. Cobb told Mr. Dowd. Our view is were not hiding anything. Referring to Mr. McGahn, he added, Hes got a couple documents locked in a safe.

 Mr. Cobb also discussed the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting  and the White Houses response to it  saying that there was no perception that there was an exchange.

Vogel took their picture and tweeted it. That looks like a big bottle of sparkling water on the table.

Of course, it took some further reporting to get a sense of what this might have meant. You can read about it here, under the headline, Trump Lawyers Clash Over How Much to Cooperate With Russia Inquiry.

Dowd was in the news in April for forwarding a conspiracy-theorists email to government officials, conservative journalists and others equating Robert E. Lee with George Washington, and Black Lives Matter with terrorist groups. The Times broke that story. too. (Fool me once ...)

According to The Times, the breach did not sit well with White House Chief of Staff John F. Kelly who, after being contacted by the Times, privately erupted at Mr. Cobb. Whether he also erupted at Dowd is not known.

Trump and his aides have complained bitterly and often about leaks, including leaks from the White House.

But who needs leaks when lunch reservations will suffice?

Read more about:

SHARE:
U.S. President Donald Trump used his United Nations debut on Monday to prod the international organization to cut its bloated bureaucracy and sharpen its ill-defined mission. But he pledged U.S. support for the world body he had excoriated as a candidate, and his criticisms were more restrained than in years past.

In recent years, the United Nations has not reached its full potential due to bureaucracy and mismanagement, Trump said. We are not seeing the results in line with this investment.

The president urged the UN to focus more on people and less on bureaucracy and to change business as usual and not be beholden to ways of the past which were not working. He also suggested the U.S. was paying more than its fair share to keep the New York-based world body operational.

Read the latest news on U.S. President Donald Trump

The short remarks at a forum on UN reforms were a precursor to Tuesdays main event, when Trump will address the UN General Assembly for the first time, a speech nervously awaited by world leaders concerned about what the presidents America first vision means for the future of the world body.

Trump riffed on his campaign slogan when asked to preview his central message to the General Assembly, saying: I think the main message is make the United Nations great  not again. Make the United Nations great.

Such tremendous potential, and I think well be able to do this, he added.

But even as the president chastised the UN, he pledged that the United States would be be partners in your work to make the organization a more effective force for peace across the globe.

He praised the UNs early steps toward reform and made no threats to withdraw U.S. support. The presidents more measured tone stood in sharp contrast to the approach he took at NATOs new Brussels headquarters in May, when he scolded member nations for not paying enough and refused to explicitly back its mutual defence pact.

While running for office, Trump had labelled the UN as weak and incompetent, and not a friend of either the United States or Israel. But he has softened his message since taking office, telling ambassadors at a White House meeting in April that the UN has tremendous potential.

Read more:

World leaders to discuss plight of Rohingyas at UN

Defiant Kim Jong Un says he will complete North Korean nuclear program

Jared Kushner begins push for Trumps ultimate deal between Israelis, Palestinians

Trump more recently has praised a pair of unanimous UN Security Council votes to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its continued nuclear weapons and ballistic missile tests.

The annual gathering of world leaders opens amid serious concerns about Trumps priorities. For many world leaders, it will be their first chance to take the measure of the president in person.

The president on Monday praised UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who said he shared Trumps vision for a less-wasteful UN that will live up to its full potential. The U.S. has asked member nations to sign a declaration on UN reforms, and more than 120 have done so.

True to form, the president also managed to work into his speech a reference to the Trump-branded apartment tower across First Avenue from the UN

His speech began a busy week of diplomacy for Trump, who is scheduled to meet separately with more than a dozen world leaders along the sidelines of the UN In his first bilateral meeting, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump declared that they are giving it an absolute go on Middle East peace talks.

Trump is to meet with the head of the Palestinian Authority later in the week, but the White House has played down prospects for a breakthrough.

U.S. national security adviser H.R. McMaster said Irans destabilizing behaviour would be a major focus of those discussions. While seated next to Netanyahu, a vociferous critic of the Iran nuclear deal, Trump declared youll see very soon when asked if the U.S. would stay in the agreement. Netanyahu, for his part, labelled it a terrible nuclear deal.

Trump and Netanyahu also discussed Irans malign activities in the Middle East and spoke about the need to prevent Iran from establishing any deep roots or organizing in Syria, according to a readout provided by Brian Hook of the State Department.

The threat posed by North Korea was expected to dominate the weeks proceedings. Though Chinese President Xi Jinping did not travel to New York, he and Trump spoke by phone about the need to use a recent U.N. Security Council resolution to pressure North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions.

Trump arrived at the UN a few months after announcing that he was withdrawing the U.S. from an international climate agreement  negotiated during the Obama administration and signed by nearly 200 countries  and amid speculation that he might be softening his position.

But Gary Cohn, one of Trumps top economic advisers, reiterated during a meeting with energy ministers that Trump will proceed with the withdrawal plan unless terms more favourable to the U.S. can be negotiated, said a senior White House official. The official insisted on anonymity to discuss details of a private meeting.

Major European powers that support the pact have said it cannot be renegotiated. Trumps meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron included discussion of the agreement, with the U.S. president insisting the original pact was not fair to the United States  though he said he shared the goals of wanting clean air and water.

During his discussion with Macron, Trump also mused about ordering up a military parade down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington to rival the one he witnessed in Paris on Bastille Day.

Trump planned to have dinner later Monday with Latin American leaders.

The United States is the largest contributor to the UN budget, reflecting its position as the worlds largest economy. It pays 25 per cent of the UNs regular operating budget and over 28 per cent of the separate peacekeeping budget  a level of spending that Trump has complained is unfair. The U.S has yet to make its payment this year, leading some in the UN to be fearful that it may slash its contribution.

Read more about:

SHARE:
The recent tax changes to Canadian Controlled Private Corporations (CCPC) proposed by the federal government have certainly raised the ire of doctors across the country. They have taken to social media and other venues to voice their displeasure with the Trudeau government.

These proposed tax changes and the amount of criticism raised by the physician community have even had some national columnists begin to ask the question, Why dont we just salary doctors like any other health care worker? Its an important policy question thats worth exploring.

Canadian health care is primarily organized as a publicly funded, privately delivered system. Provincial health insurance plans pay physicians by and large on a fee-for-service (FFS) basis for the medical services they provide the public. That fee is supposed to cover all of the costs of that service, including overhead, like staff salaries and supplies like any business. This model is a holdover from the days before medicare when people paid out of pocket or private insurance companies paid doctors for these services.

I probably hold a minority view among my colleagues but in a single payer, government-funded system, the private office model is likely anachronistic. Private, fee-for-service practice does not reflect the needs of a modern health-care system, which requires team-based care that focuses on patient outcomes, not piecemeal work.

It also does not make financial sense to physicians anymore, who have no access to benefits, such as vacation, parental leave or pensions, and due to both price regulation and prohibition of private care, can neither adjust prices nor find alternative sources of revenue to cover increasing practice costs. Continuing on the current trajectory, its a failing business model.

But the reality is that fee for service, private practice medicine is not going away anytime soon, even if the majority physicians asked for it. Provincial insurance plans significantly benefit from this model in a couple of very politically important areas, which make wide scale implementation of any physician-as-employee based model practically impossible.

1. Wait times: There is a lot wrong with FFS, but there is one big thing it does right, which is to incent physicians to work hard. Prior research has shown FFS physicians see twice as many physicians as salaried ones. By reducing the price per service, as has been done in Ontario, the government has been able to deftly hold the line on costs, while getting doctors to work even harder to hold their overall income steady. Remove that key economic incentive, and wait times would increase. This is a death knell for any provincial government.

2. Costs of care: Physician office overhead is the most poorly understood cost driver in our health system, but is also probably the most critical barrier to changing the way doctors are paid. If we assume, conservatively, that 25 to 30 per cent of physician payments go to overhead that is $3 to $4 billion a year, or the annual budget for the Toronto District School Board.

Thousands of people are employed by physician corporations, including medical assistants, technicians, nurses, and support staff. What happens to those people if physicians become government employees? These mostly non-unionized workers would either be out of work, or subsumed by either regional health authorities, hospitals or other health-care institutions.

A substantial number would join the collective bargaining agent of the institution they join, or if non-unionized, receive similar wages and benefits of their institutional colleagues. While better pay for thousands of health care workers would be virtuous side effect of physician employment, the end-result of this mass migration would be a substantial increase in costs with no tangible health system benefit in the short term.

And herein lies the central problem. Most health policy experts have advocated for an end for FFS, yet government policy since the inception of the Canada Health Act has not only allowed, but encouraged it. Provincial governments have effectively used to tax code to get something for nothing.

Will these proposed tax changes move provincial governments and medical associations to have an honest conversation about modernizing the way physicians are paid? The optimist in me hopes so, but the realist in me says probably not.

Dr. R. Sacha Bhatia is the F.M. Hill chair in health systems solutions and cardiologist at Womens College Hospital and University Health Network.

SHARE:
The last few days have brought with it a barrage of media coverage documenting the carnage and genocide being committed against the Rohingya in Burma. But even though the atrocities have now gotten the worlds attention, the oppression of this ethnic minority is not new.

From what is being published and widely shared, many may assume this state-sponsored violence and crisis began on Aug. 25. In reality, for more than four decades, the stateless Rohingya have been brutally persecuted at the hands of the Burmese military and government.

Though the Rohingya are indigenous to Burma, living in their ancestral land, they were stripped of their citizenship in 1982. Until that time, the Rohingya were recognized as citizens, voted in elections, and were elected into government positions.

Since 1982, the Rohingya have fled in several waves to Bangladesh after being banned from access to work and education and stripped of many basic human rights. The Burmese government has been calling them illegal Bengali immigrants.

In early August the NGO I work with, Burma Task Force, alerted the international community to increasing acts of violence being perpetrated against the Rohingya. We anticipated the crisis we now see before us, given the military buildup in Rohingya areas and its blockade of villages.

We were also alarmed by Bangladeshs decision to close its borders and Indias planned expulsion of 40,000 refugees. In the weeks leading up to Aug. 25, the UN, U.S. Congress, the Pope, Amnesty International, and Burma Task Force were expressing concern.

The recommendations in the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, led by Kofi Annan, are being deeply undermined. Released hours before the state violence erupted that led to the mass exodus of the Rohingya, this report called for concrete structural change that could help eliminate the barriers for impeding the peace and coexistence in Rakhine State.

Critical areas identified for change include citizenship, socio-economic development, freedom of movement, and recommendations on how to rectify the historical exclusion of Internally Displaced Peoples (IDPs), amongst others. Although the commission did not have a mandate to hold perpetrators accountable, it at least laid an outline for safety for the Rohingya and stabilize the regime, yet even that was too much for Burma to accept.

The worst atrocities have been committed in areas in which the government has, or plans to have, significant economic development projects. There were massacres in Sittwe in 2012 at the starting point of the Shwe oil/gas pipeline to China, and violence connected to the Kyaukphyu special economic zone (SEZ), and now amidst the current military operations the government announced the planned development of a new SEZ in Maungdaw once the situation has calmed down.

This is why a campaign has started called #WeAreAllRohingya now, urging multinational corporations to use their power and speak up against genocide.

While the media may pick up on the Rohingya genocide for a brief moment in time, given the multitude of tragedies and disasters facing our world today, we must not forget that this has gone on for the last 40 years and will need years of dedicated support, awareness building and international participation to restore the Rohingya as legally recognized citizens and residents of Burma. The importance of Canadas pressure on the Burma government cannot be understated.

The UN High Commissioner of Human Rights calls this a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, and with the International Day of Peace having just passed on Friday, it is time for Canada to stand up for its diversity and demonstrate its commitment to all the communities that make up this great country.

There is also a responsibility on the media to start calling the Rohingya crisis what it is, a genocide. While there may be reluctance for governments to use that term, there should be no reason that media cannot describe it what seven Nobel Peace Prize laureates, Londons Queen Mary University, Yale University, and other NGOs have called a genocide.

We have been in touch with, and will be sharing our agenda for action with the federal government in the coming days.

Ahmed Ramadan is outreach co-ordinator for the Burma Task Force. ahmed.r@justiceforall.org.

SHARE:
Think of the little brown bat as Canadas canary in the coalmine. In what scientists believe might be the most rapid decline of a mammal species ever documented, 94 per cent of the big-eared creatures have been wiped out in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec.

One reason for their precipitous disappearance appears to be a fungal disease called white-nose syndrome that is spreading westward and threatening to extinguish the lives of all these pretty predators, which play an important role in their ecosystem by noshing on night-flying insects.

But theres also something more broadly worrying at play. According to a World Wildlife Fund Canada report released on Friday, this was a species that was already threatened, like Canadas other bat populations, from habitat destruction by humans.

Indeed, the little brown bats are just one of 403 mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian and fish species across the country whose numbers shrunk on average by 83 per cent between 1970 and 2014  a shocking decline largely driven by human activity. Oft-cited causes include population growth, climate change, pollution and hunting.

In Canada, the report suggests, our attempts to protect endangered wildlife have been inadequate. The federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) has faltered in its mission to protect Canadas most beleaguered wildlife, the report says. Between 1970 and 2014, the 87 species now supposedly protected under the act saw their populations fall overall by 63 per cent. And since SARA was enacted in 2002, the average rate of decline has actually increased.

Governments across the country must act now on this frightening species loss. As the Star has argued before, the human-driven destruction of biodiversity poses a threat to our food, water, the health of our economy, to our very viability.

But there are solutions. The WWF study, Living Planet Report Canada, describes several areas where governments are making progress and several ways in which they might be doing more.

Waterfowl numbers, for example, increased by 54 per cent, mainly due to widespread wetland preservation. And populations of raptors, such as falcons, grew by 88 per cent because they are no longer harmed by the now-banned toxic insecticide DDT.

In other areas, progress will require new approaches.

Currently, for instance, government is too slow to enforce existing protections for endangered species. For example, the St. Lawrence beluga was known to be at risk before the act was passed in 2002, yet it took until 2015 for the government to take the actions required by the law.

Moreover, as the report notes, there are too many shrinking species to effectively protect each individually. Instead, governments should focus on protecting entire ecosystems.

On this, Ottawa has much work to do. According to a study released earlier this year by the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Canada  home to 20 per cent of the worlds forests and 24 per cent of its wetlands  lags behind much of the world when it comes to protecting its lands and fresh waters and, as a result, its biodiversity.

So far, we have managed to protect only a piddling 10.6 per cent of Canadas vast wilderness. Compare that to Germanys 37.8 per cent.

WWF Canada also rightly recommends we commit to more research on ecosystem health and species habitat and, crucially, on the impacts of climate change.

By failing our bats, belugas and bobolinks, among dozens of other at-risk species, we are failing both nature and ourselves. Their future is, after all, inextricably linked to ours. We can and must do better.

SHARE:
Here are Jim Cramer's top thoughts on some of the biggest stories of the week.

Jim Cramer: Some Stocks Get Even Cheaper When They Slide



Stocks, by and large, do get cheaper when they go lower. I know that sounds oxymoronic as in, no kidding, but I think this commonsense wisdom it too often avoided when analyzing stocks. It often defines various days and yet it is a philosophy that eludes so many as it did today.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet: At the time of publication, Action Alerts PLUS, which Cramer co-manages as a charitable trust, was long AAPL, CMCSA and GE.

Now, I don't want to say I patented the term, because it is pretty darned generic, but I came across it today in a fabulous report by a firm called Moffett-Nathanson recommending the stock of the parent company of CNBC, Comcast (CMCSA) - Get Free Report .

Not that long ago, in what was a pretty prescient moment, Moffett-Nathanson downgraded the stock of Comcast, saying basically it had run too far too fast considering the challenges in media.

Today, more than 10% later, they upgraded it -- just, I should add, when everyone is now turning on it, saying the challenges facing Comcast -- cord cutting, decline in video ads and the like -- are now reflected in the stock price because the forces working against the company amount to headwinds and not anything cataclysmic.

Just as they were early in the downgrade, they are early in the upgrade, as the stock still has no traction. But the point should not be lost on us, especially on a day when Apple (AAPL) - Get Free Report launched its new phone.

Now, 10 years after the first iPhone, I am amazed that the most pressing thing on peoples' minds that I have heard in the last 24 hours is "will you upgrade?" I have not heard, "how outrageous, $1000." I have not heard, "I want to try it first." I haven't even heard, "nah, I just bought the seven." I am hearing either "yes, I will upgrade, or I hope someone will buy it for me," or, "yeah, probably, I love those new features."

That's incredible. That's what I call consumer product amore, the most loved device I have ever heard of.

Yet the stock of Apple had plunged from $131 in the summer of 2015 to $92 in May of 2015, when Tim Cook came on Mad Money to remind people that his company was being prematurely buried by the stock market. There was no obituary. There was a product transition and it went amazingly, as we should have expected given the most awesome customer satisfaction number in history

In short, it was a stock that got cheaper as it went down.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:

Now, in truth the market is littered with stocks that got cheaper when they went down. Caterpillar (CAT) - Get Free Report management held an analyst meeting today and the stock price took out $120. Eighteen months ago the stock stood at $60 as analysts piled on and downgraded this amazing American company, arguably the best capital equipment manager in the world. You know what? The stock got cheaper as it went down.

At any given time, if you see merchandise, and it is merchandise, that is being marked down falsely, you must see that as an opportunity.

For example, right now, right here, the stock of United Technologies (UTX) - Get Free Report has plummeted from $120 to $110. Why? Because it is making a logical stock and cash acquisition of a company, Rockwell Collins (ROC) , that makes key airline parts, just like it does. It's a deal I was urging before it happened and here it is, at a price that's a little steep, just like the stock of Goodrich which it bought six years ago to broaden its plane part portfolio. Then it was wheels, brakes and landing gear. This time, with Rockwell Collins, it's all sorts of electronics as well as seating and many other parts. Last time it was $18 billion. This time it's $23 billion. Last time the stock lost about 10 points. This time it's lost about ten points.

Go back and look at the stock. It was the beginning of a sustained move that has brought the stock from $68 to $109 where it is today.

Back then United Technologies announced that earnings estimates would remain unchanged, that business was strong and the deal would ultimately be accretive. We got pretty much the same statement this time except earnings are a little bit better and the accretion a little more visible.

So I have a theory of what has happened to the stock. As it has come down it has gotten cheaper. I know, again, it seems so simple. And I think we will look back and not even know you got the decline.

But because there is a decline, investors run from the stock, not toward it as if it, indeed, has gotten more expensive.

Sometimes stocks get cheaper for entirely the wrong reasons. A little more than a year and a half ago we brought on the management of Marriott Vacations Worldwide VAC because the stock had been hammered mercilessly from $91 down to the fifties. Why? Because of how strong AirBNB was. The competition. Well it turns out that it was totally faux competition. Marriott's time share business is sold as an investment and a cheaper way to experience travel. The stock has since doubled.

Last month the stock of Home Depot (HD) - Get Free Report fell from $153 to $144 because Amazon (AMZN) - Get Free Report announced it would tie up with a moribund Sears (SHLD) to sell appliances. Today it's at $160. Sure we got horrendous storms that helped business. But, more important, Sears-Amazon isn't going to hurt its business.

We see this all of the time. Amazon's supposed to kill every retailer. But is the iconic Macy's (M) - Get Free Report destroyed by it? Sure it's business has been hurt. They would be the first to admit it. But two years ago I heard a fund manager recommend the stock of the company at $70 at the Delivering Alpha conference CNBC and Institutional Investor ran today. That same manager, who was so big in the stock, based on its prospects and its real estate, today says that he's sold it all and that it will have a lot of trouble prospering as a public company.

Wait a second. Now Macy's is at $22. Business is bad but not $22 bad. And with a new CEO Jeff Gennette who gets what has to be done, and a dividend that gives the stock a 6.77% yield, I'm willing to go with merchandise that's been marked down from $70 two years ago.

Now not every stock that goes down gets cheaper. Macy's didn't reflect the decline in the value of its retail business at $60, $50, $40, or $30. I think it does at $22 especially after seeing that Nordstrom (JWN) - Get Free Report looks likely to get funding for its attempt at going private.

The stock of General Electric (GE) - Get Free Report , one of the worst investments my charitable trust has ever made, may not be bottoming if the company can't pay the current dividend. But the company, which once had made a steadfast commitment to it, now only says it's an important priority. That means if the company cuts it, the stock will get cheaper still. Nevertheless that's understandable. The business is deteriorating, steadily, and until the ship is righted, as I think is the case with Macy's, the stock will not be cheap even as I think to sell it here may be too late.

Nevertheless we can't let a couple of weak companies with losing prospects get in the way of what is a machine that often creates values we sniff at because they seem too dangerous, when all they really are, is out of fashion for that very moment even as the business is more than good enough to justify the purchase of the stock right here. So, remember, while there may not be that many bargains out there at a given time, when they are given to you, kick the tires. You may have something that's perceived as a lemon but is really a different kind of yellow: Gold.

Originally published Sept. 12 at 5:41 p.m. EDT.

Jim Cramer: Do Something -- Anything -- on Tax Reform

Tax reform: Is it going to happen? If so, when? This morning in our Delivering Alpha conference, we listened to Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin talk about how we are going to get tax reform and get it this year.

I wish.

First, understand that I am a huge believer in tax reform. We need companies to be able to repatriate their assets into our country, something they have been loath to do because our corporate taxes are way too high and totally uncompetitive when it comes to the rest of the world.

Plus, a lower tax code could be a total boon to so many domestic companies that could take that money and expand to hire more people, something I believe could actually lead to higher revenues for the Treasury given the growth it would spur.

But I am a realist.

At the time of the inauguration, I could not have been more excited about these changes.

But not anymore. I know better. First, as Secretary Mnuchin said, we got sidetracked on healthcare reform, something that we all thought was a done deal given the endless repeal-and-replace rhetoric we kept hearing about right into the election.

They couldn't do it. An abject failure. A total waste of time and momentum.

Second, then we had to deal with the insistence of Congress on the notion of a border tax as a way to fund the tax cuts the president was suggesting. It took endless wrangling to try to figure out how to get that done, and ultimately it was scrapped because it would have hurt so many importers and cost perhaps millions of jobs.

Then this morning we heard about the desire of the Treasury secretary to change the taxation of the pass-throughs, certain business partnerships that could benefit from a change in taxes. The administration also wants to eliminate state and local deductions to pay for its plan.

All I can say is here we go again.

More From Jim Cramer

Cramer: Make Gary Cohn the Next Fed Chair

Apple iPhone X Isn't Too Expensive to Succeed: Jim Cramer

Nvidia 'Still Has Room to Run': Jim Cramer

I, like many of you, want something to get done. The best way to get it done is to keep it simple. Why the president's people don't see this is beyond me, but they are going down the exact same path that failed President Obama. The Democrats wanted comprehensive reform. Now the Republicans want comprehensive reform.

But if you want something done, just do it. Cut the rates for the middle class and use the repatriation -- which could be a huge cut on the trillions that are overseas even at a reduced rate -- then watch the economy grow.

Same thing with infrastructure. We are all sick of how our roads and bridges and tunnels are falling apart. Offer us savings bonds. We will buy them. We will do it because we are patriotic and practical.

But if you want to go all complex, so complex that the people will not understand it and the interests will muck it up and the Republicans will fight with the Democrats and with each other?

Then forget about it.

There was a time when I used to ask each executive what he or she is going to do with the money they will get with a lower corporate tax rate. How much will be put into dividends, buybacks, new jobs, R&D. How much will be brought back from overseas.

I don't even bother anymore. You know why?

I don't want to waste your time. Because doing it this way, going about it the way they are, ensures failure. Great is the enemy of good. And great's winning, so we will all end up losing in the end.

Action Alerts PLUS, which Cramer co-manages as a charitable trust, has no positions in the stocks mentioned.

Originally published Sept. 12 at 2:35 p.m. EDT.

Click here for information on RealMoney, where you can see all the blogs, including Jim Cramer's--and reader comments--in real time.

Jim Cramer fills his blog on RealMoney every day with his up-to-the-minute reactions to what's happening in the market and his legendary ahead-of-the-crowd ideas. This week he blogged on:

How this first leg down of United Tech should be bought

How hurricanes will break the decline of the auto and housing industries

Action Alerts PLUS, which Jim Cramer co-manages, is long AAPL, CMCSA and GE.


Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. (WBA) - Get Free Report is willing to change the number of Rite Aid Corp. (RAD) - Get Free Report stores it plans to purchase in order to placate Federal Trade Commission antitrust regulators who are reviewing the sale, Bloomberg reported Monday.

The FTC is reportedly close to ending its review process for the deal and could either make a decision or request more information before concluding its review.

Walgreens would become the country's largest pharmacy chain if the deal is allowed to proceed. Walgreens first announced its plan to purchase Rite Aid for $9.4 billion in 2015, but has run into regulatory roadblocks since then.

Rite Aid shares were up 3.04% to $2.71 midday Monday while Walgreens shares were up 0.69%.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Stocks aimed for new records on Monday, Sept. 18, with markets in a generally upbeat mood ahead of a decision on interest rates from the Federal Reserve this week.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 0.28%, the S&P 500 added 0.27%, and the Nasdaq increased 0.4%. The Dow has risen for the past seven sessions, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq have gained for five of the last six. Gains were broad with investors particularly favoring basic materials and consumer staples.

The Dow and S&P 500 closed at record highs on Friday, Sept. 15, brushing aside geopolitical worries to end a week filled with new all-time levels. A rebound in Apple Inc. (AAPL) - Get Free Report shares led the tech sector higher on Friday, while the rest of markets quickly overcame a terrorist incident in London and another missile launch from North Korea.

The Federal Open Market Committee, the decision-making arm of the Fed, will convene on Tuesday, Sept. 19, for a two-day meeting culminating in an announcement on Wednesday, Sept. 20. Investors are pretty confident in what's to come. Markets have given a near-zero chance of a change to U.S. interest rates, but near-certainty to the Fed beginning to unwind its balance sheet.

The chances the Fed holds rates unchanged at its September meeting sit at more than 98%, according to the CME Group. Fed funds futures are currently pricing in a nearly 51% chance of a 25-basis-point increase at the December meeting, putting the federal funds rate at 1.25% to 1.5%.

"The Fed has been very transparent to market participants like us about their forward guidance and our viewpoint is that if they were to do something [with rates] it would probably be in December as opposed to now," Eric Freedman, chief investment officer at U.S. Bank Wealth Management, told TheStreet, aligning with what the majority of economists expect. "I think the big thing next week will be more about the balance sheet than it will be about rates."

The Fed had previously said it would begin unwinding its $4.5 trillion balance sheet "relatively soon" should the economy continue to grow at the pace expected, a signal many took to mean September. Reducing the balance sheet tightens market conditions in much the same way as an interest rate hike.

If you'd like to receive the free "5 Things You Must Know" newsletter, please register here.

President Donald Trump will take the stage at the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday morning to discuss how to deal with an increasingly-aggressive North Korea. The rogue nation has set off a number of missile tests in recent weeks, including two that flew over Japan. National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster said on Friday, "This is not an issue between the United States and North Korea. This is an issue between the world and North Korea." Tuesday marks the first time Trump has addressed the U.N.

Confidence among homebuilders fell back in September as worries increased that Hurricane Harvey and Irma might cause difficulty in finding labor and increasing the costs of materials. The National Association of Home Builders' housing market index decreased by three points to 64. The group expects confidence to return in spring once rebuilding in Florida and Texas is underway.

Northrop Grumman Corp. (NOC) - Get Free Report agreed to buy Orbital ATK Inc. (OA) , a merger that brings together two major U.S. defense contractors, for about $7.8 billion in cash. The deal also includes the assumption of $1.4 billion in net debt. Orbital ATK shareholders will receive all-cash consideration of $134.50 a share. The companies expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2018.

It's already been a busy month for M&A in the defense sector. United Technologies Corp. (UTX) - Get Free Report announced that it would acquire Rockwell Collins Inc. (COL) for around $23 billion earlier in September.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (TEVA) - Get Free Report agreed to sell its women's health business on Monday, an arm that includes contraception and fertility products, for $1.38 billion. Teva will sell its women's health portfolio to QVC Capital for $703 million and its emergency contraception products to Foundation Consumer Healthcare for $675 million. The drug company will use the funds raised to pay down its debt.

U.S. oil prices fell below $50 a barrel again on Monday amid reports that Royal Dutch Shell (RDS.A) is re-starting a key Houston refinery that was shuttered by Hurricane Harvey three weeks ago. Refineries in the region are slowly beginning to come back online, meaning that mushrooming crude stockpiles can begin to be sorted through.

Houston-based energy services firm Baker Hughes reported on Friday that U.S. oil and gas producers took eight rigs offline during the past week, bringing the Houston oilfield services provider's total count to 936, the lowest since June. They also indicated that the oil rig count decreased by seven week over week to 749, while the natural gas rig count fell by one to 186 and the U.S. offshore rig count rose marginally from the previous week.

West Texas Intermediate crude was down 0.1% to $49.83 a barrel on Monday morning.

Dollar Tree Inc. (DLTR) - Get Free Report announced Monday that Gary Philbin will replace Bob Sasser as CEO of the discount retail chain, effective immediately. Sasser, who had led the company as CEO for 13 years, will move to executive chairman of the board. Sasser started at Dollar Tree in 1999 and was promoted to president and operating chief in 2001. In 2004, he assumed the CEO role.

Updated from 9:34 a.m. ET, Monday, Sept. 18.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Wenner Media LLC sold a 49% stake in Rolling Stone magazine last year for $40 million, but the controlling stake could fetch a higher price, according to a longtime magazine industry consultant.

Peter Kreisky of New York's Kreisky Media Consultancy LLC said the remaining 51% stake in the iconic magazine likely would fetch as much as $80 million.

Its owner, Jann Wenner, plans to sell the controlling stake in the magazine, Wenner Media announced on Monday, Sept. 18, in an e-mailed statement, adding that it has hired Methuselah Advisors LLC to explore a sale. Wenner, 71, launched the music and lifestyle weekly in San Francisco in 1967 at the height of the counterculture movement that would reshape the country.

The chance to own Rolling Stone is likely to prompt interest from magazine publishers as well as digital platforms eager for high-profile content. Rolling Stone reaches more than 60 million people per month, the company said.

"Rolling Stone has great value as a brand, and there should be buyers beyond the regular magazine publishing business," said Kreisky, a former executive at Time Inc. (TIME) and CBS Corp. (CBS) - Get Free Report . "Any media company that would like to exploit Rolling Stone's brand in television, in reaching a very loyal and very attractive digital audience, is sure to be interested."

Wenner's decision to sell his remaining stake in Rolling Stone follows Wenner Media's sale in March of the celebrity-focused Us Weekly for around $100 million, and in June of men's lifestyle magazine Men's Journal. In both cases, the buyer was David Pecker's American Media Inc., publisher of the National Enquirer and Men's Fitness. Pecker also is expected to show interest in Rolling Stone, though this time, he's likely to encounter more competition.

Music brands Spin and Vibe changed hands last December for undisclosed terms, with Billboard and Hollywood Reporter owner Eldridge Industries LLC acquiring the assets of Spin Media LLC.

A year ago, Wenner Media, in need of cash, sold a 49% stake in Rolling Stone to BandLab Technologies Ltd., a Singapore music technology company headed by Meng Ru Kuok, the son of an Asian business magnate. Yet the minority stake, which went for about $40 million, likely was much less than a controlling interest, a source close to the matter said. BandLab's acquisition covered international distribution, whereas the prospective sale of Wenner's remaining stake involves a full range of rights including U.S. distribution.

"I love my job, I enjoy it, I've enjoyed it for a long time," Wenner told The New York Times on Sunday, adding that the decision to sell the controlling stake was "just the smart thing to do."

Possible suitors for Rolling Stone include Hearst Communications Inc., Vice Media Inc. and Vox Media Inc. as well as Verizon Communications Inc.'s (VZ) - Get Free Report media unit, Oath, which includes the assets of AOL and Yahoo, Kreisky said. Hearst owns a large portfolio of magazines including Marie Claire, Bazaar and Good Housekeeping, along with an ownership position in A&E Network as well as AwesomenessTV, a video production company focused on Millennials.

Verizon CEO Lowell McAdam has made no mistake about his interest in acquiring more content for his wireless business amid its aggressive push into digital advertising. McAdam said last week that Verizon was poised to make a content deal before the end of September.

Another potential buyer, Kreisky added, is German magazine publisher Bauer Media Group, publisher of Woman's World and InTouch. A year ago, Bauer hired Steven Kotok as its new chief executive for U.S. operations, succeeding Hubert Boehle, a company executive for 30 years. Kotok is a former president of The Wirecutter, which New York Times Co. (NYT) - Get Free Report acquired in October for $30 million, and recently announced plans to expand into personal finance and other categories.

Wenner's decision to sell Rolling Stone ultimately came down to money, and the many millions of dollars Rolling Stone would need to sell to keep up with other music and youth-focused publications and brands. Wenner Media, Kreisky said, hasn't made the kind of investments in digital and video distribution to offset the entrance of Facebook Inc. (FB) - Get Free Report , Alphabet Inc.'s (GOOGL) - Get Free Report YouTube and streaming service Spotify Ltd. into the topics of music and touring.

"The opportunity is right before our eyes, but it will require an owner with the vision and the cash to invest in digital if it's to be successful," Kreisky said. "Jann Wenner is one of the last holdouts. Never believed in digital and never invested in it. And at this point, the level of investment required is really significant."

Facebook and Alphabet are holdings in Jim Cramer's Action Alerts PLUS Charitable Trust Portfolio. Want to be alerted before Cramer and the AAP team buy or sell FB and GOOGL? Learn more now.

Watch our full interview with Gene Simmons:

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Stocks are looking to extend the best weekly gain since June Monday as investors hope the October CPI reading, as well as firming consumer strength, will support markets into the final stretch of the year.
Unifor, a general trade union in Canada, said its members at General Motor's (GM) - Get Free Report CAMI auto manufacturing plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, have gone on strike after talks on a tentative agreement broke down, Reuters reports.

The union had been in discussions with the automaker regarding its July decision to halt production of its Terrain sport utility vehicle in Ingersoll and move the entirety of its production to Mexico. The decision led to 600 layoffs.

Consequently, the union is now seeking commitment from GM to make the CAMI plant the lead manufacturing facility of the Chevrolet Equinox. The plant currently produces the Equinox, but some are still manufactured in Mexico, which makes GM better equipped to handle the strike.

"Every member understands the importance of reaching a deal that secures production, and what that means to our families and the community," said Mike Van Boekel, Local 88 Chair at the CAMI plant.

GM said it was disappointed that it was unable to reach a new agreement.

"We encourage Unifor to resume negotiations and to continue working together to secure a competitive agreement," GM Canada said in a statement.

Shares of GM were inching higher during Monday morning trading.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Bermuda-based insurance agency Hiscox Ltd. (HCXLF) said it expects $150 million in damages as a result of Hurricane Harvey's devastating tear through Texas and the Gulf Coast, according to the Financial Times.

Hiscox, which is the underwriter for Lloyd's of London, was primarily exposed to Harvey damage through its reinsurance business. Primary insurance lines were also exposed through flood insurance for homeowners and businesses in the area.

Some analysts have said Hiscox could face deeper losses as a result of Hurricane Irma than Harvey, according to Reuters. The company said it will detail Irma-related losses as they become clearer in coming weeks. Hiscox's London-listed shares dipped as much as 4% in earlier trading Monday on the report before paring losses to trade down about 1%.

"Insurance exists to help individuals and companies recover from the devastation caused by events like this, and our priority is to pay claims quickly so that they can do that," Hiscox CEO Bronek Masojada said.

The broader insurance industry is set to face $25 billion in total claims from the storm and associated record-setting flooding. Insurers are expected to detail losses more vividly in the coming weeks.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Shares of Caterpillar (CAT) - Get Free Report are climbing Monday, rallying 1.8% in morning trade and hitting new 52-weeks near $124.43. The gains on Monday are a continuation from last week, where CAT stock also hit fresh 52-week highs. The company hosted its investor day last Tuesday, causing a few analysts to rally behind the stock. One such analyst was UBS's Steven Fisher.

"There is a gem in this terrific Caterpillar upgrade by UBS," TheStreet's Jim Cramer said on CNBC's "Mad Dash" segment Monday. That hidden gem comes in the form of pipelines. The analyst notes how the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has approved nearly as many miles for natural gas pipelines in 2017 than it had for all of 2016.

"This is an example of deregulation that people don't realize," Cramer reasoned, explaining that "there have been some pipelines that have been approved that would have been denied for years and years under the previous administration and that's a lot of business for CAT."

These pipeline projects are big jobs and require a lot of hiring. It also requires moving a lot of earth, which benefits Caterpillar in a big way. Given the new administration in the White House, that approval process from FERC should continue, reasoned Cramer, who also manages the

Action Alerts PLUS charitable trust portfolio

.

As for the analyst's call, Fisher has an outperform rating on the stock and assigned a price target of $140. His target implies about 16% upside, although another analyst recently assigned an even higher price target, implying about 25% upside.

Some investors might argue that the UBS call is late, given that shares are up almost 50% over the past 12 months and nearly 100% since the start of 2016. Still, though, if CAT stock rallies to where Fisher thinks it will, it doesn't really matter, Cramer concluded.

Don't miss these top stories on TheStreet:

At the time of publication, Cramer's Action Alerts PLUS had no position in any companies mentioned.
Defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. (NOC) - Get Free Report said Monday, Sept. 18, it would acquire its Dulles, Va.-based peer Orbital ATK Inc. (OA) for $7.8 billion in cash, or $134.50 per share, continuing a long-awaited spree of defense sector M&A.

The all-cash deal comes at a 24% premium to Orbital's closing share price Friday before accounting for the $1.4 billion in debt Northrop has agreed to assume.

For Los Angeles-based Northrop, the transaction is somewhat of an about-face to its recent strategy, which has focused on maintaining a solid balance sheet and has seen the company do much more selling than buying in recent years.

In fact, the last time Northrop announced a purchase was in September 2008 when it picked up CM Equity Partners LP-backed 3001 International Inc. for an undisclosed sum. Since then, the company has divested four businesses, including Tasc Inc., which it sold in November 2009 to an investor group led by General Atlantic LLC and affiliates of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. for about $1.65 billion in cash. In January, Northrop sold BluVector Inc. to LLR Partners Inc. for an undisclosed sum.

But defense industry consolidation was a major expectation in 2017, even before President Donald Trump was elected and Republicans took control of both houses of Congress.

Earlier this month, United Technologies Corp. (UTX) - Get Free Report agreed to pick up airplane parts maker Rockwell Collins Inc. (COL) for $23 billion, or $140 a share.

And Orbital ATK may have been as ripe as anyone in the sector for a takeover, given its recent financial woes and the stock's performance over the past few years. The Deal named Orbital a target last August, noting that if the company did not seek immediately to right the ship, an activist could come in to shake things up.

Orbital ATK, an aerospace and defense technology company that produces launch vehicles and related propulsion systems, missile products, subsystems and defense electronics, was formed in April 2014 through the $2.3 billion merger of Orbital Sciences Corp. and Alliant Techsystems Inc.

Since then, the company has clawed and scratched its way through a number of missteps, including a major launchpad explosion in 2014 and a 2016 accounting issue on a $2 billion-plus contract to supply the U.S. Army with ammunition.

Now Northrop, a $25 billion-in-sales global security firm, has swooped in to save the day, with the companies expecting to close the deal in the first half of the year, pending regulatory and Orbital ATK shareholder approval.

As New GE Chief Maps Strategy, One Thing is Certain: 'We're All In on Digital'

Northrop said it will establish Orbital ATK as a new, fourth business sector, and on a pro forma 2017 basis, the combined company expects to have sales in the range of $29.5 billion to $30 billion. Furthermore, Northrop anticipates that the deal will be accretive to earnings and free cash flow in the first full year following the deal's close, and to generate annual pre-tax cost savings of $150 million by 2020.

The buyer said it has secured fully committed debt financing and expects to put in place permanent financing prior to closing. Northrop said it will use its strong cash flow to continue to pay down debt, pay a competitive dividend and repurchase shares while maintaining a solid investment grade credit rating.

Americans Think Luck Has More to Do With Their Finances Than Government

Northrop received financial advice from Perella Weinberg Partners LP's Peter Weinberg and Ben Wilcox and legal counsel from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP's Faiza Saeed and Eric Schiele. Northrop's in-house legal effort was led by general counsel Sheila Cheston and assistant general counsel John Cox.

Orbital ATK took financial advice from Citigroup Inc.'s Stephen Edelman and Brian Link and legal counsel from Hogan Lovells US LLP's John Beckman, Joseph Connolly Jr., Leslie Reese III, Peter Trentman, Joseph Krauss, Meghan Rissmiller, Carin Carithers and Meg McIntyre. Citigroup was represented by Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP's Victor Lewkow, Neil Markel and Ashley Kerr.

--David Marcus contributed to this report

Editor's note: This article originally appeared on The Deal , our sister publication that offers sophisticated insight and analysis on all types of deals, from inception to integration. Click here for a free trial.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Finance ministers from 10 European Union countries announced their support of a new plan that would tax the revenues of tech titans including Facebook, Inc. (FB) - Get Free Report , Alphabet, Inc. (GOOGL) - Get Free Report , Apple, Inc. (AAPL) - Get Free Report and Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN) - Get Free Report in the bloc, Politico reported.

The companies have been previously accused of paying minimal taxes to European treasuries. The new plan would have the firms pay taxes on revenues in any country where they do business instead of the current setup, which only requires firms to pay taxes on profit that they report in what are often low-tax countries.

The proposal isn't policy yet, as all members of the EU must approve any change to tax policy before it can be implemented. Those who support the measure said they'll take it up at the December meeting of the EU.

The proposed change was originally put forth by France, whose finance minister said, "We should no longer accept that these companies do business in Europe while paying minimal amounts of tax to our treasuries," Politico reported.

EU Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, Taxation and Customs Pierre Moscovici said internet companies should "pay their fair share of tax," and that the EU "must tax those companies as we do the so-called classical economy," on CNBC's Squawk on the Street Monday.

Those who disagreed with the proposal, which included leaders from Luxembourg and Denmark, cited concerns over changing the profit-taxing status quo set forth over a century ago and concerns over attracting competition in the tech sector in Europe.

Alphabet, Facebook and Apple are holdings in Jim Cramer's Action Alerts PLUS Charitable Trust Portfolio. Want to be alerted before Cramer buys or sells GOOGL, FB or AAPL? Learn more now.

More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
Synchrony Financial, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a consumer financial services company in the United States. It provides credit products, such as credit cards, commercial credit products, and consumer installment loans. The company also offers private label credit cards, dual cards, co-brand and general purpose credit cards, short- and long-term installment loans, and consumer banking products; and deposit products, including certificates of deposit, individual retirement accounts, money market accounts, and savings accounts to retail and commercial customers, as well as accepts deposits through third-party securities brokerage firms. In addition, it provides debt cancellation products to its credit card customers through online, mobile, and direct mail; healthcare payments and financing solutions under the CareCredit, Pets Best, and Walgreens brands; payments and financing solutions in the apparel, specialty retail, outdoor, music, and luxury industries; and point-of-sale consumer financing for audiology products and dental services. The company offers its credit products through programs established with a group of national and regional retailers, local merchants, manufacturers, buying groups, industry associations, and healthcare service providers; and deposit products through various channels, such as digital and print. It serves digital, health and wellness, retail, home, auto, powersports, jewelry, pets, and other industries. Synchrony Financial was founded in 1932 and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut.
ResMed Inc. develops, manufactures, distributes, and markets medical devices and cloud-based software applications for the healthcare markets. The company operates in two segments, Sleep and Respiratory Care, and Software as a Service. It offers various products and solutions for a range of respiratory disorders, including technologies to be applied in medical and consumer products, ventilation devices, diagnostic products, mask systems for use in the hospital and home, headgear and other accessories, dental devices, and cloud-based software informatics solutions to manage patient outcomes, as well as provides customer and business processes. The company also provides AirView, a cloud-based system that enables remote monitoring and changing of patients' device settings; myAir, a personalized therapy management application for patients with sleep apnea that provides support, education, and troubleshooting tools for increased patient engagement and improved compliance; U-Sleep, a compliance monitoring solution that enables home medical equipment (HME)to streamline their sleep programs; connectivity module and propeller solutions; and Propeller portal. It offers out-of-hospital software solution, such as Brightree business management software and service solutions to providers of HME, pharmacy, home infusion, orthotics, and prosthetics services; MatrixCare care management and related ancillary solutions to senior living, skilled nursing, life plan communities, home health, home care, and hospice organizations, as well as related accountable care organizations; and HEALTHCAREfirst that offers electronic health record, software, billing and coding services, and analytics for home health and hospice agencies. The company markets its products primarily to sleep clinics, home healthcare dealers, and hospitals through a network of distributors and direct sales force in approximately 140 countries. ResMed Inc. was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in San Diego, California.
Steelcase Inc. provides a portfolio of furniture and architectural products in the United States and internationally. It operates through Americas, EMEA, and Other segments. The company's furniture portfolio includes furniture systems, seating, storage, fixed and height-adjustable desks, benches, and tables, as well as complementary products, such as work accessories, lighting, and mobile power and screens. Its seating products comprise task chairs; seating for collaborative environments and casual settings; and specialty seating for specific vertical markets, including education and healthcare. The company's interior architectural products comprise full and partial height walls and architectural pods. It also provides textiles, wall coverings, and surface imaging solutions for architects and designers; and workplace strategy consulting, lease origination, and furniture and asset management services. The company markets and sells its products to corporate, government, healthcare, education, and retail customers under the Steelcase, Designtex, Coalesse, AMQ, Smith System, Orangebox, and Viccarbe brands. It distributes its products and services through a network of independent and company-owned dealers, as well as directly to end-use customers. The company was founded in 1912 and is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
BNL girls thump Mitchell at The Hive

Bedford North Lawrence defeated Mitchell 78-20 at the Hive on Saturday evening. The win moved the Stars to 3-0 on the season.
UPDATED Sept. 21 with news that malware injection seems to have been for purposes of industrial espionage.

CCleaner, a system-optimization tool with more than 2 billion downloads worldwide, is used by many Windows, Mac and Android users who want looking to keep their devices running as fast as possible. Unfortunately for them, it appears that hackers decided to sneak their own code into a recent build of CCleaner for Windows in an attempt to steal data and possibly infect users' systems with even more malicious applications.

The attack took place by piggy-backing onto CCleaner by infiltrating the servers that distribute the software, infecting version 5.33 of the Windows utility and version 1.07 of its cloud-based sister application. Those servers belonged to Piriform, the London company that created CCleaner. In July of this year, Piriform was acquired by the Prague-based antivirus maker Avast.

(Image credit: pathdoc/Shutterstock)

If you've updated CCleaner since Aug. 15 and you're running 32-bit Windows, you may be infected. You should roll back to a pre-Aug. 15 snapshot of your system, or run a malware scan. Following either (or both) of those steps, visit Piriform's site to download and install the latest, clean version of CCleaner.

MORE: Best Antivirus Protection for PC, Mac and Android

A report on this attack from technology company Cisco's Talos Intelligence blog notes that infected versions of CCleaner were observed "as recently as September 11," and that they alerted Avast of the issue on September 13. Before that, though, Piriform already knew something fishy was going on.

In a blog post from Paul Yung, VP of Products for Piriform (opens in new tab), the exec noted that his company saw suspicious activity from "unknown IP address receiving data from software found in version 5.33.6162 of CCleaner" on Sept. 12, which led to Piriform taking the server down. This data transfer from CCleaner appeared to be the malware, identified as Floxif, phoning home to its command-and-control servers.

The infected version of CCleaner, 5.33 for Windows, was made available for download on Aug. 15, and its cleaned version, version 5.34, on Sept. 12. The infected version of CCleaner Cloud was made available on Aug. 24, and a clean version on Sept. 15. The Mac and Android versions of CCleaner do not appear to have been affected.

An Avast spokeswoman told Reuters that 2.27 million users had downloaded the infected version of CCleaner, and that 5,000 installations of CCleaner Cloud had received the tainted update to that software.

If you're on version 5.33 of CCleaner, which states its version number in its top left corner of its interface, your best bet may be to roll back your Windows system to a snapshot from before Aug. 15, as your system may have been compromised since then. At the very least, make sure your own anti-virus software is up to date.

Those without the option to restore a backup should check if their CCleaner is 5.33. Yung notes that that Piriform is updating all versions of its software up to non-malicious versions, but users can download a new copy here (opens in new tab).

While CCleaner is a very popular application, claiming 5 million downloads per week, this infected version would not have hit all of those users. The free version of CCleaner must be manually updated. However, CCleaner is also built into some versions of Avast antivirus software, in which it is automatically updated. CCleaner Cloud is also automatically updated.

Cases such as this, where system-optimization or anti-virus software is infected by malware, are especially dangerous, as those programs take deep-level system privileges, and can do more damage than almost any other software. Even more importantly, the hacked version of CCleaner was signed with a legitimate copy of Piriform's developer certificate, which shouldn't have been available to the miscreants involved.

Fortunately, the impact of this affected version of CCleaner may be mitigated by more than its lack of automatic updates. The Floxif malware appears to infect only 32-bit Windows systems, and most PCs sold in the last 5 years run 64-bit Windows.

As to who is behind this attack and how they infected the official versions of CCleaner, Talos hasn't released anything yet, and Yung isn't providing any other details.

UPDATED Sept. 21: Further analysis of the malware injected into the CCleaner updater, and the malware's command-and-control servers, strongly indicates that the CCleaner hack was an attempt at industrial espionage.



If a machine was infected by CCleaner, a new Cisco report says, the command-and-control server would check whether the infected machine happened to on the internal network of any one of the technology companies on a target list that included Google, Cisco, Samsung, Sony, Epson, D-Link, HTC, Linksys and others. The server would then deliver a "backdoor" to the infected machine for further exploitation.



No Chinese or Russian companies were on the target list.
The UKs Secretary of State for International Trade, Dr Liam Fox, announces increases in financial support for UK businesses to trade in Africa.

International Trade Secretary Dr Liam Fox announced increases in financial trade support for UK businesses to trade with South Africa as he flew out to South Africa and Mozambique to discuss strengthening trade relations on Sunday, 17 September 2017.

The visit will help to further develop the good bilateral trade relationships with the South African and Mozambique governments, promoting mutually beneficial support for British investment in Africa. In 2015 trade with Africa totalled 30.8 billion and the International Trade Secretarys visit will build on the strong opportunities for trade between the UK and Africa.

Investment ties between the UK and Africa are growing with African investment into the UK increasing by 500% between 2005 and 2014, and British investment more than doubling over the same period, clearly indicating the rich range of opportunities available.

As part of the visit Dr Fox announced that UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UKs export credit agency, will double support for trade with South Africa to up to 3.5 billion, meaning an additional 1.75 billion will be available for UK companies exporting to South Africa and for South African buyers of UK goods and services.

The International Trade Secretary also announced that UKEF are offering UK businesses wider access to government-backed overseas investment insurance (OII) which will protect UK businesses investing abroad. The enhanced support comes as the Department for International Trade looks to encourage more UK companies to invest overseas, realising the opportunities presented by fast-growing developing economies around the world.

International Trade Secretary, Dr Liam Fox said: As we leave the EU, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a more open and outward looking Britain and forge independent trading arrangements with growing economies around the world.

That is why as an international economic department, we are making billions of pounds of additional financial support available to UK exporters and buyers of UK goods and services in South Africa and opening up further export opportunities for British businesses across Africa through overseas investment insurance.

As part of the visit to South Africa, Dr Fox will meet Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry as both seek to reaffirm the importance of the UK/SA trade and investment relationship.

He will also tour the newly opened Invest SA One-Stop-Shop, part of the SA governments initiative to attract investment and improve the business environment. Whilst there Dr Fox will meet with leaders of WESGRO, the provincial Investment Promotion Agency for the Western Cape, seeing how investment opportunities for British companies are being promoted.

The Trade Secretary will also see first-hand how UK investment overseas is positively impacting on the local workforce when he meets apprentices at the Jaguar Landrover apprenticeship facility in Johannesburg.

In Mozambique Dr Fox will continue to promote the importance of a UK trade and investment relationship overseas as he meets with President Filipe Nyusi and Trade Minister Ernesto Max Elias Tonela.

Background: Trade statistics

South Africa

Total trade in goods and services (i.e. exports plus imports) between the UK and South Africa totalled 8.1 billion in 2015, a 5.2% increase since 2014.*



The top 5 UK goods exported to South Africa in 2016 were:**



84 - Machinery and mechanical appliances (18.7% of all UK goods exported to South Africa)

85 - Electrical machinery and equipment (12.7%)

87 - Motor vehicles (11.7%)

30 - Pharmaceuticals (6.5%)

22 - Beverages, spirits and vinegar (6.0%)

Mozambique

Total trade in goods and services (i.e. exports plus imports) between the UK and Mozambique totalled 284 million in 2015.*

The top 5 UK goods exported to Mozambique in 2016 were:**

85 - Electrical machinery and equipment (22.9% of all UK goods exported to Mozambique)

84 - Machinery and mechanical appliances (19.8%)

87 - Vehicles other than railway or tramway stock (17.5%)

30 - Pharmaceutical products (6.8%)

90 - Optical, photographic, cinematographic and medical equipment (5.8%)

* ONS Pink Book 2016

** HMRC Interactive database (Data by HS Commodity code)
Through the Partnership for Investment and Growth in Africa (PIGA) project, companies in Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia are doing business with Chinese investors.

African and Chinese entrepreneurs in agro-processing are talking business, doing business as a direct result of meetings co-organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC).

More than 260 businesspeople participated in one-on-one matchmaking meetings in Changchun, Jilin Province, China, on 4 September 2017 to discuss trade and investment opportunities in the agro-processing and light manufacturing sectors in Africa.

The 200+ meetings between 21 companies from Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia and 75 Chinese investors were organized by ITC, the Jilin Peoples Government, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the China-Africa Development Fund (CADFund) under the Partnership for Investment and Growth in Africa (PIGA) project.

Concrete investment leads resulted immediately after the event.

Pursuing business leads

A Kenyan company that grows a special variety of chillies for processing into lipstick received an invitation to visit a Chinese investor to discuss follow-up actions. The Chinese investor called the matchmaking event an eye-opener that proved to be really instrumental in developing a partnership with a Kenyan company.

A Zambian honey producer found a new market for his product and concluded a contract to ship 500,000 bottles of honey to new clients.

Soy oil processing companies from Zambia found a Chinese partner to expand production.

A Chinese company specializing in poultry breeding showed interest in investing in poultry breeding in Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia.

Promoting exports, development

The matchmaking event was organized under the PIGA project, funded by the United Kingdoms Department for International Development (DFID). PIGA is a joint United Kingdom-China partnership to increase sustainable economic growth in African countries through investment-led exports and local development in agro-processing and light manufacturing.

ITC, CCPIT, CADFUND, DFID and High-level representatives from the Jilin Peoples Government and the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) opened the event. Investment promotion officers from Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia presented the investment climates and policies in their respective countries to the Chinese investors.

The private sector also supported the event, including two Chinese companies that are pioneers in Africa investment, CGCOC Group and Jihai Agriculture Investment and Development Group.

Investing in African businesses

To mobilize $4 billion to develop a livestock agro-processing industrial park in Ethiopia, ITC organized a side event targeting Chinese and Ethiopian companies interested in taking part in the investment project led by the CGCOC Group. Mr. Xuejun Jiang, ITC Chief of Office for Asia and the Pacific who moderated the side event, stated that PIGA was pleased to support the promotion of this project in view of its potential economic and social impact to Ethiopia.

Ms. Masarrat Quader,Regional Private Sector Adviser  Invest Africa at the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Irelands Department for International Development (DFID), highlighted the potential of this new industrial park to be a game changer for the sector in Ethiopia and to create up to 25,000 new direct and indirect jobs for Ethiopians.

Mr. Afework Shimelis, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of Ethiopia in Beijing, and Mr. Zhang Yuzhon, Deputy Director General, Department of Investment Promotion Agency of MOFCOM, underlined the economic and development impact of the project. The side event generated lots of investment interest among the companies which attended this event.

In preparation for the business matchmaking event, ITC organized a one-day workshop for African companies to receive practical, hands-on knowledge about negotiation skills. An ITC expert also advised African companies on making strong investment proposals for Chinese investors.

Tapping investment opportunities

The light manufacturing and agro-processing sectors in Africa remain largely untapped. Large-scale investments from China are already largely taking place through mining, oil and infrastructure projects across Africa. However, only about 10% of Chinese investment projects in Africa from 1998-2012 were in agriculture and manufacturing. Investment in export-oriented activities would help African exports become more diverse and create new opportunities.

The PIGA project focuses on attracting investment in the productive sectors of light-manufacturing and agro-processing to help develop backward linkages, processing capacities, local value addition and job creation.

Through PIGA, ITC facilitates investment in Africa by providing capacity building and advisory support to companies and investment promotion agencies in Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia. ITC will continue to provide information to Chinese investors on investment climates in Africa, as well as investment-ready African companies that could be potential partners in their investment projects.
Today, in Addis: Informal meeting of AU Ministers of Trade

The main objectives of the meeting are to: (i) take stock of recent developments in the negotiations at the WTO since the Geneva Retreat of the African Group of Ambassadors and Experts held on July 6-7, 2017; (ii) discuss and formulate common positions on current issues of offensive and defensive interest to Africa as well as new issues, with a view to guide African negotiators in their final preparations leading to the WTO MC-11; and (iii) reflect on the overall strategy Africa should adopt in the WTO multilateral trading system in order to achieve its structural transformation in the context of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

Today, in New York: (i) Meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change; (ii) Sustainable Development Impact Summit

Africas private sector and the CFTA: African business leaders establish the African Technical Business Advisory Committee (PACCI)

At a meeting organized by the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, business leaders and executives from Morocco to Ethiopia, Nigeria to Namibia, business leaders from 38 African countries agreed to establish an independent Advisory Committee, which will comprise the various private sector interests, such as the Chambers of Commerce and Industry, regional business councils, industry associations, women entrepreneurs and services to play an advisory role to the African Union policy organs, namely the Conference Trade Ministers and the High Level African Trade Committee comprising of Heads of States from the countries that are chairing the Regional Economic Communities. The African Technical Business Advisory Committee which will play the role assigned to the entity referred to as African Business Council in the CFTA structure, will comprise the private sector, industry associations and the wider community at the regional and national levels to ensure an inclusive and participatory approach to the integration process. Dr. David Luke, Program coordinator at the UNECA/ATPC: Governments dont trade, it is business enterprises that trade with each other. This is why at African Trade Policy Center we believe that the private sector must play a significant role in the negotiations leading to the conclusion of the CFTA.

SADC Macroeconomic Convergence Indicators: recently posted by the Committee of Central Bank Governors in SADC: Budget Balance, Current Account Balance, Gross International Reserves, Inflation, Public Debt, Real GDP Growth (pdfs)

ECOWAS Convergence Council: Marcel De Souza calls for measured pace in the creation of the ECOWAS Common Currency

The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Marcel de Souza, has appealed for an unhurried creation of the West African common currency. He made this appeal in Bamako at the opening ceremony of the 10th ordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Convergence Council. Speaking to finance ministers, central bank governors and technical experts of the ECOWAS Macroeconomic Policy Committee, de Souza stated that an immediate transition to the single currency would present grave consequences for the sub-region. He requested that finance ministers serve as the regional organisations advocates in their respective countries, in order to create an enabling environment for the implementation of the ECOWAS monetary cooperation programme. He noted with satisfaction the significant strides in the coordination of monitoring activities and the production of the sub-regions macroeconomic convergence reports.

Malawi time release study workshop: update (WCO)

In pursuance of the WCO National Mercator Plan for Malawi, designed to provide sustainable, tailor-made and results-based capacity building support to enable effective implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, the WCO organized a 5-day training workshop to strengthen Malawi Revenue Authoritys capacities in the area of Time Release Study. In her opening remarks, Deputy Commissioner General of the Malawi Revenue Authority Mrs Roza Mbilizi, stressed that Malawi is interested in conducting TRS as Malawi wants to identify bottlenecks and trade facilitation opportunities in the clearance process and aims to build and maintain effective operational procedures that are carried out by Customs and other actors in the processing of imports, exports and transit movements of goods. The periodic use of the TRS methodology will be important in positioning Malawi Customs as a constructive leader in coordinated border management discussions.

Connecting African, Chinese businesses to boost trade and investment (ITC)

More than 260 business people participated in one-on-one matchmaking meetings in Changchun, Jilin Province, on 4 September, to discuss trade and investment opportunities in the agro-processing and light manufacturing sectors in Africa. The 200+ meetings between 21 companies from Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zambia and 75 Chinese investors were organized by ITC, the Jilin Peoples Government, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, and the China-Africa Development Fund (CADFund) under the Partnership for Investment and Growth in Africa project.

African countries back India-China stand on curbing rich nations farm sops (The Hindu)

A joint India-China paper for disciplining the so-called trade-distorting farm subsidies given by rich countries has found backers in African nations, including South Africa, Zimbabwe and Egypt. With just three months to go for the crucial Ministerial meet of the World Trade Organisation, in December, battle lines are getting drawn with those opposed to the India/China stand on subsidies and their demand for prioritising a solution on public stock-holding, too, getting a traction, a government official told BusinessLine. At the Committee on Agriculture meeting, which attempted to shortlist the agenda for the Buenos Aires Ministerial, Botswana (for the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States or the ACP Group) and Egypt (for the African group), supported by South Africa and Zimbabwe, welcomed the India-China proposal as the starting point for negotiations. Egypt went further and suggested that norms to address blue box support and green box subsidies (permissible subsidies not linked to production) should also be introduced, as also rules to avoid box shifting (changing the features of a subsidy programme to make it non-actionable).

Bart Minten: Ethiopias coffee farmers struggle to realize benefits from international markets (IFPRI)

Yet despite its leading position in Africa and the positive changes made in the coffee trade in the last decade, the Ethiopian coffee sector is underperforming, according to recent research by IFPRI, the Ethiopian Development Research Institute, and Bonn Universitys Institute for Food and Resource Economics. Ethiopian yields are slightly higher than those of Kenya and Rwanda, but lower than Ugandasand only one half to one third the size of major Latin American producers. Ethiopian farmers, meanwhile, receive a smaller share of export prices compared to most other countries.

Egypt garment exports reach $941m in 8 months (Ahram)

Egypts garment exports reached $941m in eight months in 2017, compared to $865m in the same period last year, the readymade garments export council of Egypt announced in its monthly report on Sunday. August saw an 8% rise in exports compared to the same month last year, reaching $132m compared to $122m the previous year. The report said that exports to the United States -- which received the highest number of exports -- increased by 6%, reaching $461m in the last eight months compared to $436m in the same period in 2016.

Kenya, Ethiopia could overtake Africas economic heavy weights in attracting investment (New Times)

A report released by a global risk consultancy, Control Risks, on Thursday shows that Kenya and Ethiopia might soon outshine Africas economic giants, Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt in the competition for investment. The report Africa Risk-Reward Index, developed by Control Risks, was released in Johannesburg. The report noted that while Nigeria and South Africa have recovered, there are still some risks. Ethiopia, which is one of the fastest growing countries in the continent, outperformed all African countries in the survey.

SA banks can still thrive in Africa - EY analyst (Fin24)

Low revenue growth is behind the low growth in profit. Banks have held back on extending credit, particularly in African markets with weak economic activity, said Andy Bates EYs financial services leader for Africa. The big four banks have a decent footprint in Africa. What we see is a desire to continue to invest, but not as quick as the banks would like, he said. There is also the pressure of costs associated with the investment. But given the average age of the population across Africa, which is quite young and the amount of unbanked people there is a great opportunity for them to join the formal banking sector, explained Bates. There is not just a demand for banking products, but also for wealth and asset management, insurance and pension products. This is a massive opportunity not one South African bank can afford to ignore, said Bates. [Steinhoff puts high price on Africa unit]

London looks to cement trade links with SA (Business Day)

As the 689th Lord Mayor of the City of London, I act as an ambassador for the UKs financial and professional services sector, and have been in SA this past week to meet with senior business and government officials to discuss how we can build closer business ties between our two countries. With some of the most promising emerging markets in the world, the UKs relationship with African nations will become ever more important, and, as a financially mature country, SA will be a key partner in the region. [The author: Andrew Parmley]

UKs International Trade Secretary: increasing financial support for UK businesses to trade with South Africa, Mozambique

Dr Fox announced that UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UKs export credit agency, will double support for trade with South Africa to up to 3.5bn, meaning an additional 1.75bn will be available for UK companies exporting to South Africa and for South African buyers of UK goods and services. The International Trade Secretary also announced that UKEF are offering UK businesses wider access to government-backed overseas investment insurance which will protect UK businesses investing abroad.

Human Capital Report 2017 (WEF)

The report measures 130 countries against four key areas of human capital development; Capacity, largely determined by past investment in formal education; Deployment, the application and accumulation of skills through work; Development, the formal education of the next generation workforce and continued upskilling and reskilling of existing workers; and Know-how, the breadth and depth of specialized skills-use at work. Countries performance is also measured across five distinct age groups or generations: 0-14 years; 15-24 years; 25-54 years; 55-64 years; and 65 years and over. With an overall average score of 52.97, sub-Saharan Africa is the lowest-ranked region in the index. Rwanda (71), Ghana (72), Cameroon (73) and Mauritius (74) have developed more than 60% of their human capital. South Africa (87), the regions second largest economy, comes towards the middle in the region. Nigeria (114) ranks in the lower midfield and Ethiopia (127) is the lowest performer, fourth from the bottom on the index overall.
When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site.
For those of you with Air Canada Vacations this week:

http://vacations.aircanada.com/en/ideas/activities/suggestions/recommendations/promotions/Travel-Advisory-Tropical-Storm-Maria/42567

Travel Advisory: Tropical Storm Maria

For customers travelling to the Dominican Republic

For customers who have planned to travel to the Dominican Republic with a scheduled departure on Monday, September 18, 2017, please note that all flights are canceled. Your file will automatically be eligible for rebooking at a later date.

Customers who planned to travel between September 18 and September 24, 2017 may rebook an alternate Air Canada Vacations package by October 15, 2017 for travel until April 30, 2018.

Customers are responsible for any price differential resulting from selection of a higher-priced alternative. This policy applies to scheduled departures as indicated above only.

For customers travelling to Antigua, Barbados, Fort de France, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia

Customers who planned to travel between September 18 and September 20, 2017 may rebook an alternate Air Canada Vacations package by October 15, 2017 for travel until April 30, 2018.

Customers are responsible for any price differential resulting from selection of a higher-priced alternative. This policy applies to scheduled departures as indicated above only.
I am planning a trip to Huatulco for next April. In checking on what flights are available out of Chicago I found that Volaris is the only airline that offers nonstop roundtrip flights. I know Apple Vacations uses Volaris for their charters to Huatulco. I have never flown on Volaris so I checked the reviews on TA, Yelp and other sites and they are pretty bad so I am very skeptical about flying with Volaris. The fare for two people roundtrip is $832 before any extras. Same flight through Apple is $1218. Depart at 7am- 11:42am Return 12:48-5:30pm

Then I checked Interjet and they have 1 stop flights for $830 again before any extras. Their reviews are good. Downside is departure is at 12:40 am with a 4 hour layover in Mexico City but you get to Huatulco at 10 am. Return flight only has a 2 hour layover in Mexico city.

United has 1 stop flights with layovers in Houston. $1068 before extras. Depart 8am-2:35pm Return 3:25pm-12:10am with a 3 hour layover.

So my question is, especially to you seasoned travelers out there, should I take a chance on Volaris with the poor reviews but nonstop flights or go with Interjet or United that have better review but inconvenient flights?
At Patrick Marsh Middle School in Sun Prairie last week, school counselor Tiffany Kvalheim opened a lesson about academic and career planning with a question.

"Why are we talking about careers in seventh grade?" Kvalheim asked.

Students offered various answers: So they can decide which classes to take in high school; so they know their strengths; so they're aware of different career options.

Addy Wenzl, a seventh grader interested in becoming a veterinarian or an interior decorator, cut right to the quick: "So you know what you want to do and you won't be living in your parents' basement."

After the lesson the students answered questions on their laptops through an online program called Career Cruising. The program offers, among other things, career guidance by tabulating their interests, skills and learning styles.

The program's algorithm didn't impress seventh grader John Banks-George. Last school year when he entered information about himself, engineer came back as the first recommended career option, while his preferred choice, airline pilot, ranked 20th.

Banks-George had already given up on his initial dream of becoming a fighter pilot when he learned his asthma and glasses would be a barrier. Earlier this year he started a paper airplane club with its own website, which he said is "definitely going to be on my resume now" in the hopes it will improve the ranking for airline pilot.

Starting this year, all Wisconsin school districts are required to have an academic and career planning program for students starting in sixth grade. Many districts, like Sun Prairie, have provided those kinds of services for years.

But unlike in past generations when students filled out questionnaires and received feedback about what careers might suit them, the academic and career planning programs such as Career Cruising now directly factor in information from area and regional employers about what jobs need to be filled.

It's one of many examples of how the education system is adapting to the changing nature of the workforce and comes as employers around the state struggle with a growing worker shortage.

Gov. Scott Walker and business leaders are urging high school students to consider two-year degree options rather than a traditional four-year degree as they hasten more workers into the job market and try to fill positions that require more technical training and skills than jobs of the past.

Others, like Tim Slekar, dean of the Edgewood College School of Education, caution that too much emphasis on career at a young age can have long-term consequences on mental health. Slekar said his ninth grade daughter recently came home distraught after a career lesson at school.

"I think parents should have a healthy skepticism of any type of career trajectory that doesn't allow for a kid to go, 'You know, I want to be a ninth grader right now,'" Slekar said.

Changes in high school

Proponents of the new emphasis on career in education say the new economy requires workers to be better-educated  even in many jobs that only require a high school education  with many more jobs opening up in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. Workers also must be able to adapt to rapid developments in industry.

And, they argue, it's better for students to find out sooner whether they like a field rather than when they are in college, when extra years of education can cost them tens of thousands of dollars.

For example, Madison Area Technical College offers high school students a health care immersion after-school program. Some participants have entered wanting to be a doctor, only to discover they would prefer a different career, while others come in wanting to be a phlebotomist but discover they want to try for a higher-paying career as a physician's assistant, said Mark Lausch, dean of the school of health education and strategic projects.

In middle and high schools, districts across Wisconsin are offering technical training on equipment provided by local companies, fabrication laboratories, youth apprenticeships and classes at a local technical college to help students get a head start on a career.

Ryan Geiger, 24, of Brillion, started taking some technical education college credits at Brillion High School. He then went to Fox Valley Technical College to learn about machine tooling and landed an apprenticeship with Ariens Company.

Today, with a technical degree in machining and tool and die journeyman card, he's making close to $60,000 a year with a new house and, unlike his college graduate friends, no student loan debt.

"I enjoyed it so I just kept going with it," Geiger said. "I didn't have to change my path. That's the nice thing, you're not landlocked in. You can change your mind in a four-year school, but it's expensive."

While schools are ramping up their focus on employment, fewer employers are offering training. Over the past two decades the percentage of American companies that train their employees has dropped from 35 percent to 20 percent, according to Ed Gordon, a Chicago-based economist and author of "Future Jobs: Solving the Employment and Skills Crisis."

"We're seeing the same problem across every major business sector," Gordon said. "The number of well-trained individuals who have all the skills  there aren't enough of them. The reason is the education system that was the best in the world really hasn't changed a whole lot in terms of what it's producing in terms of educated people. But the job market has changed dramatically."

Madison's Pathways

The Madison School District's Personalized Pathways program may be going even further than many districts in emphasizing career readiness. This fall it is altering the high school experience for hundreds of freshmen by focusing classes on health services topics.

The district introduced the program to raise the achievement of low-income and minority students and better prepare all students for college, technical school or a career. The district is partnering with local colleges and employers for internships and projects.

Some parents have raised concerns the approach could steer students into specific career paths too soon, rather than encourage them to explore a broader education.

Alex Fralin, assistant superintendent for secondary schools, said one goal of Pathways is to give students "more options and more exposure to make better decisions earlier" and "so some students aren't wasting four years in a field that they later on decide" isn't for them, referring to a college.

"We never ask students to choose a career or choose a major in middle school or high school," Fralin said. "What we ask them to think about more strategically than we have before is how they think about their aspirations as a whole."

Originally conceived as a major restructuring to include all high school students at full implementation, Fralin said officials are now weighing whether to provide a way for some students to follow a more traditional high school path to college. School board member Mary Burke has suggested creating a liberal arts pathway.

In the meantime, the district has put on hold the second year of Pathways implementation in fall 2018.

Views from higher education

The number of jobs requiring a high school diploma or less fell by about 6.3 million since the Great Recession, according to the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce.

The number requiring some college or an associate's degree fell 1.8 million, but has since recovered to 700,000 more than before the recession. And the number requiring a bachelor's degree or more has continued to grow with 8.1 million more jobs than before the recession.

Last year those with a high school diploma earned 60 percent as much as those with a bachelor's degree and their unemployment rate was almost twice as high, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

University of Wisconsin System president Ray Cross said there exists some misconception that there are people with college degrees sleeping in their parents' basements, but employment and salary data contradict that notion.

"No matter what field you're in, whether retail or as a barista, increasingly employers want you to have some college," Cross said.

Morna Foy, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System, said technical colleges offer short-term training programs that can lead to well-paying jobs. As an example she cited a nine-month utility line program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College from which graduates can make $65,000 a year starting pay. But she acknowledged the job and work environment are very difficult.

She also said many employers, particularly manufacturers, are so desperate for quality workers that they are lowering their degree requirements from four-year degrees to associate's degrees.
Hello everybody!

In a couple of weeks we plan to travel 3 months to Australia/ New Zealand!

We only booked our international flights so we have to book car/ campervans and other flights the next couple of days, we hope someone can advise us! We are 27 and 31, like adventure, sea, walking, diving and want to travel on a budget..

We fly from London to Brisbane on 24/10, a friend of us lives here so we will be staying with him for a couple of days and go to Fraser island together. From then on, we need some advice:

Main questions:

- Cairns to sydney driving or Cairns driving to Whitsundays then fly to Brisbane and go from here on further to Sydney?

- Car or campervan?

- should we book accommodation whitsundays in advance?

- Any suggestions about how much time were to spend would be much appreciated!

We have 1 month in total for this upper part from 25/10 till 25/11

Brisbane - fraser island - cairns - port douglas - whitsundays - golden coast

Then we fly from Sydney to Auckland and explore NZ in one month, as this is australia forum we won't take about it ;)

26/12 we would by flying back in to Melbourne, our parents fly in from Europe the same day:

then we were thinking:

3 days Melbourne

one week great ocean road

2 days Adelaide + Barossa wine

Kangaroo island? is it worth the visit? if yes how long?

Then we fly back to Sydney, visit it together for 5 days and they fly back home:

We will then have 2 weeks left from 13 january on, any ideas?

Worth to fly to the west: Margaret river?

or Lord howe island? Esperance?

Thanks in advance!!!
I would not drop the river float but do a chocolate tour on day 10 in the afternoon. If you're going to AOL to hike, your best bet is to go with a guide and get there early morning. Midday there are far fewer critters out and about. The restaurant at AOL has a big deck ourside with bird feeding stations and if you stop by after hiking you can spot 10 of more bird species in 10-15 minutes and many of them are very colorful. We also saw 2 anteaters in the short shrubby trees while eating lunch there as well as coatis underneath the bird feeders.
I have been anti-car for our trip, but rethinking that plan for Arenal. I won't need it for our first full day, so would I take a taxi into town to get it the second day? We are at the Springs, so I think that would be about $30....which eats into the cost and takes time to do. Are there any car rental agencies that will drop off the car at the hotel?

Our last day I was thinking we would drive from the Springs to La Paz, tour and have lunch, and then end up at our hotel near the airport. Is this a difficult drive? Is our luggage safe in the car at La Paz?

Thank you!
I will be coming from Nicaragua this month, and I have my own vehicle. We have been to Costa Rica many times, but always the pacific and central. This will be the first time taking my vehicle, as we usually go on bus. We speak spanish and have traveled central america extensively, so we are used to conditions, people, etc.

We have no time frame, and we can take as much time as we would like, or is needed to see the area.

Things we like. Outdoors, adventures, swimming, animals, great views, camping, local food and culture, raw or underdeveloped attractions.

Things we don't like. Touristy areas, expensive lodging, resorts, tour guides/companies, high entrance fees, crowded places.

Anywhere in the north is fair game, but ive already been all over la cruz, liberia area, nicoya peninsula, etc.

Bonus points for suggestions on awesome places to camp!
I'm due to travel to Vietnam arriving via Hanoi airport where I know VOA are accepted. I have made enquires with the embassy in London at visa price and it is turning out to be 90 to process. VOA is looking a much more appealing choice however I am being asked my exact exit date which I don't have as I'm traveling to Laos at a land border crossing about 10-12 days later.

I will be re-entering Vietnam from Laos however I have again been advised by the embassy in London I can use the waiver for the second entry as a British citizen.

Any advice or recommended services? I need to do this in the next few days.
Hello

we will be on the cruise and our stop is Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City. Our cruise will end in Singapore then I will fly to HCM for another 10 days. My question is:

1/ I plan to apply for visa from San Francisco, I download the application and mail in with copy of my passport. Fee is $22.00 p/p for Multiple entries for 1 month. We have 2 persons.

2/ I was reading that I have to pay for stamping fee when I arrive in Vietnam. Is that true? Even though I have a letter from the consulate S.F.

3/ I thought when I apply directly from Consulate in S.F, the letter should have a stamp and approved for me to arrive? And $22.00 is covered everything.

I am trying to save cost of fee, if I do it myself. Some agency charge me $90.00 per person.

Any advise would be appreciated.

Thank you
I am flying to Tokyo September 30th. on my own arrangements along with wife. We are senior citizens in USA. We will buy 7 days or 14 days JR pass before leaving Los Angeles. We have already visited Tokyo and Kyoto previously. Can someone advise which are other cities worth visiting. We surely wish to include Hiroshima in our this trip. Are there travel agencies at the Tokyo airports with whom we can discuss and book on arrival ?

Thanks in Advance.
Hi there,

I have 1 night after Koyasan before heading to Tokyo (in November). I will leave Koyasan at about 10-12:00.

I originally had an overnight stay planned in an onsen in Hakone region (to do the onsen expierience). But it is a long way from Koyasan to Hakone (but eaither way on my way to Tokyo) , but got the impression the Hakone Ryokans were a long way from the train line ?

Now I figure it out that maybe the ARIMA onsen would be a better idea to the 1 night onsen expierience stay ?So the plan would be to travel from Koyasan to Arima onsen.

I am having trouble working out which would be easier and/or worthwhile. I have checked Hyperdia and I see a lots of transferring for both directions.

Could you please give me any suggestions and help to decide which onsen destination is more convienient and how to travel from this destination to Tokyo in a more direct way.

Thank you in advance!
If you are doing two weeks I would do 2 locations. You could do Viti Levu and an island or 2 islands one in the Mamanuca Group and one in the Yasawa Group or you could go further afield.

This little piece will get you on the move as far as locations and resorts go:

Re: First time to FIJI

This is a piece I did for a lady in 2016. Hopefully it will make a good starting point for you:

"Like a lot of things ########### holidaying in Fiji is a very personal thing. So, it is about you finding your piece of paradise. First thing I would do today is go out and buy the Sunday Herald Sun and have a look in the travel section. Some Fiji resorts advertise specials so see if anything floats your boat. Variables include budget, ages of kids, what you are looking at doing and time (How long you want to spend in Fiji)

My wife and I prefer May because the Cyclone season is over but there is still more warmth in the water but it is a personal thing. Have been in January, August and October and all were good.

Now there are lots of places to visit in Fiji with over 300 islands but there are 4 area's that get talked about the most.

Coral Coast - is situated on the south coast of the main island of Viti Levu. Beaches can be hit and miss. Have been to Naviti 3 times with the kids, which no matter what you read is only 3 - 3.5 stars but we found the staff terrific but the beach is not good and the coral reef has seen better days. Have a look at The Warwick, Intercontinental, Shangri La and Hideaway to start with.

Denarau - this is where I upset most people because it leaves me cold but they have a lot of the major chain resorts and hotels like the Hilton, Radisson and Westin etc. Much like South Bank in Melbourne with a choice of eateries etc. Built on a reclaimed mangrove swamp and has a fairly sizeable marina there as well.

Mamanuca Islands - This is where my wife and I spend most of our time coz we are in a rut! I personally prefer the islands over the main land but that is my choice. Remember it is about you. I would start my research with Malolo, Castaway, Musket Cove and Treasure Island. Beaches can be tidal but there are some wonderful spots.

Yasawa Islands - Of the 4 locations this area takes the longest to get to. Start your research with Blue Lagoon Beach Resort.

Now with the numbers you are talking about I would definitely pop in and see a travel agent and don't forget that once you're booked you will need travel insurance

If I think of anything else I'll add another post.

Other regulars should jump in and give their idea's. We all have our own spots.

As I have said repeatedly it is about you and I hope you have a great time

Baz"

Good luck and come back to us for your next question

Hope this gives you a start. Snorkelling is best on the islands.
Feb. is a high, but not peak season. Read this about weather / availability: http://costa-rica-guide.com/travel/best-time/february/ .

CR might look small on the map, but it takes a long time to get places, and it has many different areas, so if you can do a longer trip, it is better.

You might start your trip planning by reading

Destinations Summary- http://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/costa-rica-destinations-summary-guide/

Itineraries for 1-2 wks: http://www.twoweeksincostarica.com/itineraries/

and transportation options around CR- . There are a lot of prior posts on this forum re renting a car or not, recommended companies, and mandatory insurance issues.

We prefer to use private transfers, sometimes public buses, but mostly prepaid shared shuttles like Interbus and others.

For wildlife, we like S. Caribbean. E.g., Cahuita (national park), Punta Uva, Manzanillo (Limon one), or areas around Puerto Viejo. See https://www.puertoviejosatellite.com for more info. It is about 5 hrs from SJO.

We also liked the volcano views of Arenal Observatory Lodge hotel, which is 25-30 min away from the town of La Fortuna. We did the transfer from Cahuita to AOL in 1 day, by Interbus, it took 7 hrs! If you only have 1 wk, you might not want to do it.

Many first time itineraries recommend a combination of La Fortuna / Arenal area and Manuel Antonio. After a couple of visits to S. Caribbean, we found that there were too many ppl in MA park (trails, beaches), it was too touristy, crowded, and small for us. In Manzanillo, Cahuita, we could sometimes stand and watch a sloth crawl, without anyone else around. In MA park, there were about 20 tourists with their cameras, pushing their way toward one poor sloth... not smth we enjoyed...
WASHINGTON (TNS)  The Trump administrations plan for shrinking and diminishing protections at Americas national monuments appears far more expansive than previously reported, targeting 10 of the nations most ecologically sensitive landscapes and marine preserves for diminished protection.

The plan, which the White House has been keeping secret since it was submitted by Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke late last month, would shrink the borders at half a dozen monuments and ocean preserves and open four others up for uses such as commercial fishing, logging and coal mining, according to a copy of the blueprint obtained by The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post.

The Zinke plan, if adopted, will have limited effect in California. Only one of the monuments targeted, the Cascade-Siskiyou on the Oregon border, has land in the state. Zinke did not specify in his 19-page memorandum how the boundaries of that or any of the other public lands targeted should be changed.

But the impact on the West overall would be dramatic. The other monuments Zinke is proposing to shrink include Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, which together encompass 3.2 million acres. Zinke is also urging a downsizing of the nearly 297,000-acre Gold Butte National Monument in Nevada.

Under Zinkes plan, the boundaries of the 584,000-square-mile Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument would be reduced so that commercial fishing could resume in the territory. The monument, which encompasses seven atolls and islands, is described by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as one of the last frontiers and havens for wildlife in the world.

Zinke also wants commercial fishing to resume within the 13,451-square-mile Rose Atoll Marine National Monument near American Samoa, which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes as one of the most pristine atolls in the world. Like Pacific Remote Islands, it provides refuge to a number of endangered and threatened species.

The White House is refusing to comment and has not said when it will make a final determination.

No president should use the authority under the (Antiquities) Act to restrict public access, prevent hunting and fishing, burden private land, or eliminate traditional land uses unless such action is needed to protect the object, Zinke wrote in his memo to President Donald Trump, who ordered the review of the monuments. He concluded that Trump has the authority to unilaterally change the boundaries of monuments.

But that is a matter of intense debate. No president has ever stripped protections from monuments in the way Zinke is proposing. Opponents of the plans, including state attorneys general, environmentalists, tribal associations and outdoor groups have all vowed to fight the administration in court should it pursue the Zinke blueprint.

Acting on these recommendations would represent an unprecedented assault on our parks and public lands, and undermine bipartisan progress to protect our lands and waters that dates to Theodore Roosevelt, said Jamie Williams, president of the Wilderness Society. We believe the Trump administration has no legal authority to alter or erase protections for national treasures.

At stake are millions of acres of unique geological formations, rare archaeological artifacts and pristine landscapes and seascapes. Trump had complained that past presidents abused their authority to put land off-limits to development, designated ever-growing swaths of property as monuments at the behest of environmentalists.

The review of the monuments undertaken by Zinke drew fury from Native American groups, conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts and political leaders. More than 90 percent of the 2.7 million Americans who weighed in on the monument review in written comments to the Interior Department were opposed to shrinking borders. Zinke acknowledged the intense opposition in his report to Trump, but attributed it to a well-orchestrated national campaign organized by multiple organizations.

Beyond the half-dozen monuments where Zinke suggests borders be redrawn, there are several more that he proposes be opened to traditional uses such as logging and coal mining. They include the fledgling Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine, which would be opened to more logging. Commercial fishing restrictions would be lifted from Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Monument southeast of Cape Cod. The Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument near Taos, N.M., would be opened up to more grazing. And restrictions could be lifted on motor vehicles at the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument on New Mexicos southern border, which Zinke says is necessary so the federal government can better control drug smuggling.

The plan to change the 10 monuments comes after Trump directed Zinke to review 27 monuments larger than 100,000 acres that had been established since the presidency of Bill Clinton.

During the course of the review, Zinke declared  with little explanation  that a dozen monuments deserved to remain fully intact, including Sand to Snow Monument in California. By late August, Zinke had privately delivered the highly anticipated report to the White House. The administrations refusal to reveal what monuments were targeted drew yet more ire from opponents, who charged the process lacked transparency.

Some lawmakers are likely to warmly embrace the proposal. Politicians in Utah had lobbied Trump to eliminate the 1.3 million-acre Bears Ears National Monument in the remote desert Canyonlands of their state altogether. President Barack Obamas creation of the new monument enraged state officials who complained it killed off potential oil, gas and mining jobs in the region.

The monument was created at the behest of five tribal nations eager to protect more than 100,000 cultural and archaeological sites that they fear are vulnerable to looting and grave robbing.The dispute over monuments in Utah stretches back to the Clinton administration, whose creation of the 1.9 million-acre Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument riled some Utah residents. A proposed coal project was derailed with that action.Even before Trump ordered the review, the campaign against Bears Ears triggered an intense backlash, in which outdoor apparel company Patagonia led a boycott effort that cost Salt Lake City a major trade show that had been providing an economic boost to the city for 20 years.The administrations plan is rooted in a provision of the 1906 Antiquities Act that it argues limits presidents to protecting the smallest possible amount of land needed to preserve historic artifacts and ecologically significant landscapes.
How do I get from the airport (JFK, LGA, or EWR) to Manhattan?

What To Do During Layovers?

Vacation Apartment Rentals Violate NYC Laws

Hotels: Kitchenettes and kitchens in 100+ Manhattan Hotels

Hotels: Two queen beds plus a kitchen/kitchenette

Hotels: Guests under 21 years old (but at least 18)

Hotels: Which ones charge an additional Resort or Facilities Fee

Hotels: When is the best time to go for cheaper rates?

What are the Must-See's and Must-Do's?

How Do I Ride the Subway (UPDATED)?

Tips, Hint and Suggestions for First Timers

SCAMS to avoid in NYC

What Will the Weather Be Like During My Trip?

Any Good Websites for Researching My Trip?

How Safe is New York?

Where to Eat in NYC

Where to eat in NYC - Part 2

Celiac in the City? (gluten free)

Which Area Should I Stay In?

Is There Cheaper Lodging Outside Manhattan?

How Much Do I Tip People?

Are the New York Pass, Explorer Pass or CityPass worth it?

How Do I Hail a Taxi?

Public restrooms/toilets. Where do you go when you GOTTA GO?

Where are the best areas for shopping?

How do I find Discount Tickets for Broadway Shows?

What are the NYC Halloween events for 2021?

Thanksgiving 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat

Christmastime in NYC 2021: Dates for the Trees-Windows-Markets-Ice Skating+MORE!

Christmas Day 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat

What Should I Do on New Year's Eve?

How Will I Survive the Cold Weather?

Where are the Farmers Markets and Street Fairs?

What is there to see and do near WTC/SOL/Brooklyn Bridge/SI ferry?

What should I know about visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum?

What Is There to See and Do in Brooklyn?

How Do I Get to the Brooklyn Bridge?

What Is There to See and Do in Queens?

Exploring neighborhoods - where should I go and what should I see?

Which is the best? ESB or TOTR or OWO?

Which are the significant churches in Manhattan?

Hidden Gems in the city - not so touristy

How do I get from NYC to the Meadowlands and back?

I'm Getting Married in NYC...what do I need to do?

Should I Buy Knock-Off Purses?

What to Do with Kids and How to Do It?

What should we do at night -- especially with kids or under 21's?

Places to eat (and drink) with a view

Where is the Old FAQ?

Trip Reports: Families with Young Kids - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Groups of Friends - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Couples - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Families with Teenagers - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Solo Travelers - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Families of Adults - Add yours!
We arrived on September 11th, and discovered that this was Broadway week, so tix were 2 for 1. Nice perk for traveling in September. We immediately went to The Empire State Building, arriving after dark and saw the Light Tribute from the Twin Towers.

Day 1 We stayed on the Upper West Side at Columbia University since my hubby is an alumnus we got a great deal on university housing. We spent our first day touring much of the gorgeous architecture of the Upper West Side like Saint John's Cathedral and Columbia University. We took the subway to 79th street to see The Ansonia, The Beacon theatre, San Remo, the Dakota, Museum of Natural Science. Then we crossed Central Park at 79th seeing Belvedere Castle and the Delacourt Theatre. We had a hotdog at the Met, and took the one hour free highlights tour. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!! Then we walked through the Park to Bethesda Fountain and the Promenade. We did pay for a one hour pedicab, but thought it was very over priced. Still we were able to rest our feet! We Went into the Plaza hotel and Trump tower before seeing Chicago on Broadway.

Day 2

We had rehearsal show tix for the new Megyn Kelly show at NBC studios (Rockefeller Plaza) so we arrived early, and after had brunch at the restaurant that is the Plaza Ice Rink in the winter. We saw Yolanda Hadid walking and got stand by tix for Jimmy Fallon. We crossed the street to Saint Patricks Cathedral, and we went to the top of the Rock, then headed down 5th avenue to the NY Public Library, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal. We hopped on the subway to find some Thrift stores on 22nd street and Saint Marks, but we were disappointed in the prices and stuff. We took subway back up to Ellen's Stardust Cafe, a lot of fun, and saw Kinky Boots. We really enjoyed the show.

Day 3

We slept in, and then headed to the 9/11 Museum, which is so well done. We walked through Wall Street, then hopped on a Water tour of Down town, including the Statue of Liberty. Headed back up to see Phantom after shopping in Times Square.

Before we left, I wanted to visit a synagogue since Jewish culture is such a force in NYC. I wanted to go to the Eldridge Museum, but time didn't allow, however the Jewish Center gave us a tour of their 100 year old synagogue which was so kind of them.

We never made it to Greenwich Village....UGH always a reason to return!!!!
Is your company in need of the most reliable and efficient best Best Jasmine Tea s in the market? Your good luck led you to the ideal situation, so congratulations! You are in the best possible place. By eliminating the need to read through dozens of Best Jasmine Tea reviews, we are saving you time and stress.

Many customers find it difficult to decide which Best Jasmine Tea product to buy. The dilemma is brought about by the many types of Best Jasmine Tea in the market. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a clear understanding of how you may choose the most suitable Best Jasmine Tea available in the market.
For years, Democrats have (rightfully) hammered Republicans for spouting empty slogans and magic math.

Tax cuts will pay for themselves? Uh-huh, if you say so. Maybe have a chat with Kansas.

Build a wall, and Mexico will pay for it? Hmm, thats not what Mexico says.

Repeal and replace Obamacare? Right-o, show us a replacement plan, any replacement plan, that wont raise rates and cause millions of Americans to lose their insurance.

These were hollow promises, with no serious plan backing any of them.

Thanks to the Grand Old Partys demagoguery, Democrats have for a little while enjoyed a virtual monopoly on facts, evidence and experts. Dems  or some of them, anyway  embraced serious, solutions-based, often technical policymaking and the hard choices that went along with it.

But the lesson the Democrats seem to have taken from the 2016 electoral trouncing is that they need to become more like Republicans. Meaning: Abandon thoughtful, detail-oriented bean-counting and attempts to come up with workable solutions grounded in (occasionally unpopular) reality, and instead chant virtue-signaling catchphrases.

Such as single-payer.

On Wednesday, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, unveiled his latest iteration of Medicare for All. Unlike the last time he introduced such legislation, in 2013, this bill had 16 co-sponsors  a third of the Democratic caucus. Among those co-sponsors were many potential contenders for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, such as Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Kamala D. Harris (Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Cory Booker (N.J.).

In a sense, they had to sign on. Single-payer is rapidly evolving into a litmus test for Democrats wishing to prove themselves sufficiently progressive for their leftward-shifting partys base.

Even as Republicans attempt to rip health insurance away from millions, single-payer has become astonishingly popular  among the public generally and Democrats in particular. A June Pew Research Center survey found that a slim majority of Democrats say health insurance should be provided through a single national insurance system run by the government. Among Democrats under 30, the share was two-thirds.

And why not? Single-payer certainly sounds far simpler, fairer, less wasteful and cheaper than the patchwork of private and public insurers and providers we have today. Todays system was created more by historical accident than deliberate design. President Barack Obama said many times that if we were building a health-care system from scratch, wed probably concoct something that falls under the broad category of single-payer.

But were not starting from scratch. We live in our patchwork world, which means if we want single-payer  an ill-defined catchall, by the way  we need to figure out how to get from here to there. This involves painful political choices, sharp tax hikes and some degree of buy-in from the many stakeholders who are going to get shafted in the transition.

What about the 178 million people who currently have employer-sponsored health insurance and overwhelmingly like it? What about the sticker shock awaiting individuals and employers over the tax increases necessary to pay for such a program? What happens if hospitals go bankrupt because Medicare reimburses at much lower rates than private insurance? Would the government step in and run them, as is the case in Britain?

And most important, how do you actually pay for this enormous, multi-trillion-dollar overhaul? (Is Mexico paying?) Given Americans allergy to higher taxes, its not enough to dismiss fiscal concerns by assuming Americans will gladly give Uncle Sam the money they currently earmark for a private health insurance system.

On this and other major questions, the Sanders plan punts. Anyone who asks such questions, or raises an eyebrow at the lowball estimates cooked up by the Sanders camp, gets branded a wet blanket, a heartless technocrat, a corporate shill or worse.

The goal should be universal health care, however we get there. And were much likelier to get there if we start from a baseline of reality than if both parties hand-wave away inconvenient truths. There is no courage in saying everyone should have health care. The courage is in staking out a plan to pay for it.

One of the things about representative democracy is that you need the peoples representatives to actually work out the details. On this aim, both parties are barreling toward failure. Democrats learned in 2016 that they needed a message and not just a slate of policies; now with unified government power, Republicans are learning in 2017 that they need a slate of fleshed-out policies and not just a catchy message.

Someday, maybe one of these parties will decide to invest in both.
Build that wall! Eventually. Or at least patch up some existing fencing. If Chuck and Nancy will agree.

Donald Trumps signature pledge to build a border wall, aka The Wall, is diminishing almost by the hour. No battle plan survives contact with the enemy, said Helmuth von Moltke the Elder, the 19th-century German field marshal. He left no record of his view of what happens when an emotive slogan dressed up as a policy proposal comes into contact with the enemy, but we can assume that he didnt think it would fare well.

It hasnt. Trump is paying the price for making The Wall the most powerful symbol of immigration restriction, when it isnt particularly important or achievable. He piled lurid fantasy on top of absurd overpromising by asserting that Mexico would somehow be made to pay for the barrier.

This worked brilliantly for Trump during the campaign. His rally-goers delighted in his familiar lines about The Wall and engaged in call-and-response with the candidate like the chorus at an old-time revival. The Wall underlined Trumps tough image and larger-than-life persona. Just as Rome had its Aurelian Walls, America would have its Trumpian Wall  some 1,000 miles long, impenetrable and altogether big and beautiful.

Then the bill came due. Or, to be more precise, it didnt. There was no way, absent the threat of a punitive U.S. invasion, that the government of Mexico was going to suffer the national humiliation of paying for a Yanqui border wall. In the leaked transcript of a call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, Trump pleaded with Pena Nieto just to stop saying that Mexico wouldnt pay for The Wall. And couldnt even manage that.

So the U.S. government would have to fund The Wall after all (although only as a down payment until Mexico paid its arrears, according to Trump). This was a problem because no one truly believes that a vast border wall  traversing remote territory, causing immense legal complications over the right of way, and costing billions of dollars  makes much sense. Yes, key areas need more robust fencing, but that doesnt require replicating the Walls of Constantinople.

The Trump administration climb down began immediately. In his confirmation hearings for Department of Homeland Security secretary, John Kelly referred to high-tech fencing, i.e., sensors and the like. Trump himself has fluctuated between insisting that The Wall will be built  at a Phoenix rally a few weeks ago, he said hed happily shut down the government to force a deal for Wall funding  and rationalizing why its not being built.

Upon news of a potential deal with Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi over DACA that wouldnt include funding, Trump tweeted that The Wall is already under construction in the form of new renovation of old and existing fences and walls. Needless to say, none of his rally-goers thought they were cheering for routine maintenance at the border.

Despite the drama, The Wall is mostly beside the point when it comes to enforcement. Construction of a wall doesnt even make the top three priorities for tightening up on illegal immigration. A mandatory e-verify system to discourage illegal hiring, an entry-exit system to track visitors, and local and state cooperation with the feds all are much more important. A border wall is powerless to stop visa overstays, which account for about half of illegal immigration, and it wont reduce the jobs magnet that inevitably draws people here.

If Democrats were smart, theyd let Trump build whatever he wants on the border in exchange for massive concessions on other policies. But the Democratic base is too adamantly against The Wall, which it considers a symbol of exclusion and xenophobia, to make this negotiating strategy possible. Upon contact with the enemy, Trump will be lucky if The Wall ends up as much more than architectural plans and demonstration projects.
- US State Department has sounded a warning on potential violence ahead of the repeat presidential polls

- The Department has warned US residents to steer clear of Kenya where possible

- According to the department, demonstrations are likely to occur unexpectedly

The USA has put Kenyan on high alert on potential violence after the repeat presidential poll which is a month away.

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that the notice was issued in the form of a travel alert on Wednesday, September 13 ahead by the US State Department.

According to the department, it is likely that demonstrations will occur with little notice soon after the polls.

Kenyans will be in the ballot again on October 17. PHOTO: Facebook.com/Hashon

READ ALSO: DP Rutos breathes fire on Raila after NASA leader sets conditions for repeat poll

Even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. A statement from the US State Department read partly as quoted by businessdaily Africa.

The State Department further cautions US Citizens from entering Kenya, despite the fact they are convinced the violence may not primarily target outsiders.

A past photo of post election chaos. PHOTO: Nation

READ ALSO: IEBC commissioner Akombe's life in danger as brother goes into exile after threats

Kenyans are set to go back to the Presidential ballot in less than a months time, although there has been numerous setbacks already in the build up to the big day.

Opposition outfit NASA has particularly thrown the October poll into uncertainty after leader Raila Odinga insisted no election would take place if the current IEBC officials would still be in charge.

NASA leader Raila Odinga was in Jacaranda grounds on Sunday, September 17. PHOTO: Twitter.com/RailaOdinga

READ ALSO: Mike Sonkos plea to NASA and Jubilee supporters ahead of grand decongestion plan

Raila alleges a ploy by the Chiloba-led team to rig the elections in favor of Uhuru Kenyatta.

The August 8 elections were met by minor incidences of violence across various parts of the country including Kisumu, Kibra and other parts of the Capital.

There was a sense of calm soon after, though political temperatures were right up again following the nullification of the Presidential results.

Have anything to add to this article or suggestions? Share with us on news@tuko.co.ke

The Moi Girls hero who traded her life for other students:

Source: TUKO.co.ke
- The Donald Trump administration has said its eyes are on President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga ahead of the repeat polls

- The US government wants the two to meet and iron out their differences ahead of the October 17 date

- Trump's government believes this will help ease the tension created by their hardliner stances

- This comes after US issued a travel advisory to its citizens visiting Kenya

US President Donald Trump's administration has said it is keenly watching President Uhuru Kenyatta and his rival Raila Odinga as they prepare to face off in the repeat poll slated for October 17.

The US government has said it is closely monitoring the developments in Kenya where it has high stakes economically and socially.

Through the US governments Bureau of African Affairs, Donald Trump's administration has called on Uhuru and Raila to meet and iron out their differences ahead of the repeat polls.

Donald Trump's government wants President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga to meet and iron out sticky issues Photo: Twitter/PSCU

READ ALSO: IEBC likely to change fresh election date from October 17

Were not going to take our eyes away from it. Kenya matters. If our largest embassy is in Nairobi, Kenya, that means we have a stake in that country, and Africa has a stake, and this government is looking at where the trend lines will go after October 17, the bureau said on Sunday, September 17 as quoted by Nation.

Trump's administration is concerned that the two leaders have adopted hardliner stances that have escalated political temperatures among Kenyans.

Raila and his NASA team have demanded removal of 12 IEBC officials accused of bungling the August 8 election. But Uhuru and his Jubilee team believe it is witch-hunt and wants the officials to oversee the repeat polls.

READ ALSO: Their could be violence after repeat presidential election-US warns

The warning comes ahead of a meeting between the two organised by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Donald Trump's administration says its eyes are on Kenya ahead of repeat polls Photo: CNN

The electoral body is set to meet Uhuru and Raila on Wednesday, September 20, at the Bomas of Kenya, to find a solution to a stalemate that has threatened the conducting of the fresh polls on October 17.

As reported by TUKO.co.ke, IEBC is likely to change the date after KIEMs kits provider OT-Morpho said it won't be ready by October 17 as it has to reconfigure the kits.

READ ALSO: It is simple, no reforms No elections  Raila Odinga

US' statement also comes days after the Trump administration issued a travel advisory to its citizens visiting Kenya over the planned repeat polls.

The US government predicts that there is likely to be violence during and after the election.

Should Ezra Chiloba leave IEBC?

Have something to add to this article or suggestions? Send to news@tuko.co.ke

Source: TUKO.co.ke
A foreign delegation headed by Ukrainian presidential advisor Anders Fogh Rasmussen has visited the positions of Ukrainian troops and the settlements of the Donbas affected by the Russian occupation forces, the press center of the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) headquarters has reported.

"A foreign delegation headed by former Danish Prime Minister, recent NATO Secretary General and now Ukrainian presidential advisor Anders Fogh Rasmussen has visited the area of the anti-terrorist operation," reads the report.

It notes that Rasmussen, together with a group of European politicians and journalists, visited several towns in Donetsk region, where foreign partners had an opportunity to get acquainted with the tasks, conditions and positions of Ukrainian troops involved in the tasks of the anti-terrorist operation. The group of foreign guests included, in particular, former and current heads of government of European countries, foreign ministers, parliamentarians, political advisors, and consultants.

At a base camp of the ATO forces, high-ranking foreign guests were met by the generals and officers of the ATO headquarters, and then a briefing was held. In addition, the guests visited a brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces defending a section of the front line in the Donetsk sector, as well as the town of Toretsk.

Leaving the area of the anti-terrorist operation, Rasmussen told Ukrainian military and foreign journalists said that this visit was very useful, as European politicians once again saw the need to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression and the need for assistance that Europe should provide to Ukraine.

op
A district court in Odesa has decided to detain for two months without the right of bail Petros Sarkisian, the director of the Viktoriya municipal out-of-school educational institution, where three children were killed in a fire on September 16, the court's press service has reported.

"The Kyivsky District Court of Odesa has taken into custody the director of the Viktoriya municipal out-of-school institution, who is suspected of committing a criminal offense stipulated by Part 2, Article 270 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, namely the violation of fire safety requirements established by the legislation, which caused a fire leading to deaths of people and large-scale property damage," reads the report.

As reported by Ukrinform, a fire broke out in a building of the Viktoriya children's camp in Odesa in the early hours of September 16. Over 40 children were inside the building at the time of the fire. Three children were killed in the accident.

According to preliminary findings, the cause of the fire was the violation of fire safety rules. Criminal proceedings were instituted under Part 2, Article 270 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (the violation of fire safety requirements established by the legislation). The director of the children's camp was detained.

In addition, police officers detained and, together with the prosecutor's office, notified of a suspicion a camp employee who, according to her functional duties, was responsible for fire safety.

op
MADISON  Both houses of the Wisconsin Legislature have passed legislation endorsing the framework of an incentive package for the Foxconn Technology Group, which is poised to make a $10-billion investment in the state.

Now, the real works begins.

Thats not intended to diminish the long hours of debate and study devoted to the Foxconn bill by lawmakers since it was first revealed in early summer. Rather, its to acknowledge if ever there was a case of the devil lurking in the details of a deal, this is it.

Passed this month by the Assembly, 64-31, and the Senate, 20-13, the process now returns to state negotiators to finish writing the terms of the incentive package. That will take the form of a contract that will outline the more precise terms of how, when and if Foxconn will be compensated for investing up to $10 billion in capital over time and hiring up to 13,000 direct employees.

It will look much like a bank underwriting process, in which provisions are outlined to provide incentives for Foxconn to perform as announced while limiting the state of Wisconsins risk through repayment clawbacks or payment thresholds for meeting job creation targets.

An amendment passed by the Senate and embraced by the Assembly would require the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. to establish job creation thresholds for Foxconn that must be met before incentives could be paid, even in partial form.

While that amendment didnt set specific job ranges  state negotiators will work on that in coming weeks  it helps to address concerns that Foxconn would fall short of its predicted 13,000 jobs and still get the bulk of an estimated $3 billion in state incentives.

It leaves the state in a better position to negotiate with Foxconn over retroactive tax incentives for job creation. Foxconn is the worlds largest contract manufacturer of electronics and the fourth-largest information technology company by overall revenues, a status the company didnt obtain by having a team of weak negotiators.

In addition to the state contract talks, work is underway to solve what some people predict is the biggest problem of all: Finding enough skilled workers for Foxconn in an already tough labor market.

Marquette University President Lovell touched on that need Thursday at a Tech Council Innovation Network meeting in Wauwatosa. Marquette campus leaders are regularly in touch with the company over its need for scientists, engineers and other technicians, Lovell said. Similar conversations are happening throughout the UW System, the states technical colleges and other private colleges and universities.

Lovell said its part of a larger trend  in Wisconsin and well beyond  to better align the needs of industry with higher education in a rapidly changing world.

We have to be nimble; we have to be quicker, Lovell said. Its a service to our students to help them prepare for a world in which many of tomorrows jobs dont exist today.

Lovell, an engineer who was part of the University of Pittsburgh faculty before coming to UW-Milwaukee and later to Marquette, talked about Pittsburghs transformation when Google opened a major office there. In short order, he recalled, Apple, Intel, Microsoft and Disney also took up residence in the former steel-making city.

The same will happen in Wisconsin, he said. Once you build an infrastructure in a sector, others will follow, Lovell said.

Finally, as it becomes more apparent that Racine County will be Foxconns primary home, local officials there will step up work on the details of what it means for a liquid crystal display plant the size of 11 Lambeau Fields to be dropped in your backyard. Those questions will revolve around land, water, roads, power lines, housing, mass transit and much more.

The Foxconn deal had a highly contentious public airing in the Legislature. Now, the attention will turn to what it means to make Wisconsin the North American home to one of the worlds largest technology companies.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko is planning to raise the issue of the release of Ukrainian hostages and political prisoners during his visit to the United States for the session of the UN General Assembly.

"The issue of the release of Ukrainian hostages and political prisoners will be one of the key issues during my visit to the United States for the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly," he wrote on his Facebook page on Sunday, September 17.

He recalled that "exactly one year ago we freed our Hero Volodymyr Zhemchuhov."

As Ukrinform reported, Poroshenko will pay a working visit to the United States on September 18-21 to participate in the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly. There, he will speak at the general debate of the General Assembly, take part in the UN Security Council summit on peacekeeping issues, high-level events on UN reform, and the fight against the use of the Internet for terrorist purposes.

Zhemchuhov conducted 30 special operations in the occupied territories in Donbas in 2014-2015. On September 29, 2015, he sustained serious injuries in a tripwire trap explosion. He lost his hands and eyesight. The militants seized him in an unconscious state. Zhemchuhov was held for a long time in the Luhansk detention center and interrogated.

On September 17, 2016, with the direct participation of the president Zhemchuhov was released from the captivity of the militants.

op
Ukrainian consuls have met with 19-year-old Ukrainian Pavlo Hryb, who was kidnapped in Belarus and taken to Russia.

Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine Mariana Betsa informed this on Twitter.

"Our consuls visited Pavlo Hryb today. Permission for medical inspection by the Ukrainian doctors has not been given. We urge to provide access of doctors," she wrote.

In turn, Andrei Sabinin, the lawyer of Pavlo Hryb, wrote on his Facebook page that the consular staff talked with his client for about an hour in the presence of a staff member of the pre-trial detention center.

"A number of issues was blocked. Medications were not given, there was no doctor," he wrote.

According to him, during the meeting, the consular staff was also banned from speaking with Pavlo Hryb in Ukrainian.

As reported, on August 27, a Ukrainian citizen and a former border guard officer, Ihor Hryb, appealed to the Ukrainian Embassy in Minsk with a statement that his son, Pavlo, born in 1998, disappeared in Belarus.

On August 24, the young man left Chernihiv for Gomel and disappeared there. Ihor Hryb initially searched for his son in Belarus independently. Police representatives in Gomel reported that his son had been placed on the wanted list by the FSB of the Krasnodar Territory of Russia under an article "terrorist act."

ish
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has arrived at the UN headquarters in New York to participate in a general political debate, the United Nations has reported on Twitter.

"Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has arrived at the UN headquarters to participate in a general political debate and other events," reads the statement.

On September 18-22, Poroshenko is on a working visit to New York to attend the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly.

op
Ukrainian border guards have started to register organized groups of Hasidic pilgrims who arrive in Ukraine to celebrate the Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashanah, the State Border Guard Service has reported.

According to the report, in total, the service is waiting for about 40,000 pilgrims.

"In particular, nine charter flights with Hasidic pilgrims have arrived at the capital's airports over the past 24 hours. In turn, border guards are taking all measures to ensure that the registration of this category of travelers is conducted at a proper level and at the same time does not create any inconvenience to other passengers of the airlines," the statement reads.

To this end, the management of the Kyiv separate checkpoint increased the number of workplaces and border guard units. A group of servicemen of the mobile border unit has been added to strengthen and provide security measures at the crossing points at the Boryspil and Zhuliany airports.

According to border guards, there are currently no problems with registration or violation of rules by pilgrims in Kyiv's airports.

It should be noted that in total, almost 2,200 Hasidic pilgrims have already arrived in Ukraine. Most of them arrived in the country through Boryspil Airport, as well as through airports in Lviv, Odesa, Kherson, and the Krakivets and Mohyliv-Podilsky checkpoints.

Last year, employees of the State Border Guard Service in almost 260 cases registered more than 30,000 pilgrims who traveled in organized groups. Most of them were registered at the Boryspil, Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa airports, as well as at border crossings with Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.

op
Ukraine's Forum of Publishers has called on creative intellectuals to support the illegally imprisoned Ukrainian journalists in Russia, in particular, Roman Sushchenko and Mykola Semena.

The forum participants stated this in an appeal for the protection of journalists persecuted by Moscow.

"The Forum of Publishers calls on Ukrainian and foreign writers and publishers, journalists, as well as other representatives of the creative intelligentsia, to show support for Ukrainians who have become political prisoners of the Kremlin, in particular, screenwriters and journalists," the authors of the appeal say.

They stressed the importance of expressing support for Sushchenko and Semena.

"The right words and gestures of support from well-known authors, who have millions of readers, can be compared to powerful international diplomatic efforts on the release of the hostages of the Russian government," reads the appeal.

Ukrainian journalist Roman Sushchenko has been illegally detained for nearly a year at the Lefortovo detention facility in Moscow. The criminal prosecution of journalist Mykola Semena in Crimea has continued since April 2016. They are both professional journalists, long-term members of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine.

op
As Americans absorb the latest details of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. elections  via hundreds of fake Facebook accounts  Germans have been expecting similar interference in their Sept. 24 federal election.

But the fact that no Russian hack attack has occurred so far is only one of the surprises of Germanys campaign season. Six months ago, a tide of uber-nationalist populism seemed to be sweeping Europe  in the wake of Britains Brexit vote and Donald Trumps nationalist surge. Three-term German Chancellor Angela Merkel appeared on the rocks after permitting a million refugees to enter Germany in 2015.

Fast forward to now, and Merkel is poised to win a fourth term handily, following on the May victory of centrist Emmanuel Macron in French presidential elections. The fact that Merkel is a shoo-in is amazing, says Karen Donfried, president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Germans have turned back to Mutti (mother) Merkel as a symbol of stability at a time of global chaos.

But Americans, too, have a vested interest in the resurgence of Mutti (with whom President Donald Trump has a famously tense relationship). At a time when Trumps version of America First has degraded Americas global standing, Merkel has emerged as the de facto leader of the West.

Ill get to the German strategy vs. Russian election manipulation in a moment, but first a bit about how Merkel did it. Only a year ago, on a trip to Berlin and Dresden, I visited overloaded centers crammed with Afghan and Syrian refugees, and interviewed nationalist-populist members of the AFD (Alternative for Deutschland) party who hoped to capitalize on the backlash.

But, says Helga Barth, political affairs minister at the German Embassy in Washington, the refugee numbers are now way down. The European Union concluded a pact with Istanbul to halt the refugee flow from Turkey into Greece and onward to Western Europe. Germany (along with France and the European Union) is also funding and training Libyan coast guards to diminish the flow from North Africa.

The refugee problem is far, far from over. But, said Donfried, speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, Merkel has convinced the public she is managing the problem.

The populist AFD party will indeed enter the national parliament for the first time, probably getting at least 10 percent of the vote, and possibly becoming the third-largest German party. But the leader of Germany will still be a strong woman who stands for openness and tolerance and believes in NATO and a united Europe.

Merkel and Macron is now a new power duo that, at least in theory, could reinvigorate the European Union and European defense efforts. Whether they can succeed, the prospects are far more hopeful than in 2016.

There are many reasons for Americans to hope that M&M make progress. Not least of those is Merkels firmness so far in dealing with Vladimir Putin.

Having grown up in communist East Germany, where Putin served as a KGB colonel, Merkel has a full grasp of the Russian leaders desire to re-establish hegemony over parts of the lost Russian empire. Despite pressure from German businessmen, she has stood firm on maintaining sanctions on Russia until it stops supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine.

At a time when Russia is conducting massive war games with tens of thousands of troops alongside the borders of Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, Merkels firmness is welcome. It stands in sharp contrast to Trumps past praise for, and endless refusal to criticize, Putin.

Nowhere is that disparity more evident than in the German, and French, denunciations of Russian cyberhacking of elections  and the determined denials of Trump.

German officials had expected cyber interference in their elections. Yet no embarrassing revelations from that lode have emerged  so far  nor has Russian unleashed its propaganda networks and bots to spread fake news.

One reason may be the aggressive efforts of German authorities to publicize and combat Russian sabotage efforts. But the biggest reason may be that Russians know that Merkel would fight back.

So a Merkel victory means there will be two leading European heads of state who understand Putin well and will stand up against Russian efforts to disrupt European democracy and elections  in sharp contrast to Trump.
Truckee, CA (UroToday.com) - Bavarian Nordic A/S announced that an independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMCB) has determined, based on a preplanned interim analysis, that continuation of the Phase 3 PROSPECT study of PROSTVAC in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is futile.We are extremely disappointed for patients that this study of PROSTVAC as monotherapy was not successful, said Paul Chaplin, President & Chief Executive Officer of Bavarian Nordic. On behalf of Bavarian Nordic, I want to express our gratitude to the PROSPECT investigators, patients and families who participated in this trial. While this is certainly not the desired outcome, we remain steadfast believers in the power of combination treatments, including immunotherapies, to transform the future of cancer therapies.The contents of this announcement do not affect the Companys expectations for the financial results for 2017.
A four-ship fleet from China has performed formation drills in the Sea of Japan, near North Korea, before heading to the Russian port of Vladivostok for joint land and sea military exercises with Russia. Moscow is already conducting the largest military exercise since the Cold War in areas close to its northwestern borders. NATO is closely watching the exercises and says they include as many as 100,000 servicemen, not 12,700 as Moscow claims. VOA's Zlatica Hoke reports.
The British government's attempt to appear strong and united over Brexit wobbled Monday as a top official was shifted from his post days before a new round of divorce negotiations with the European Union. Opposition lawmakers said the move reflected the Conservatives chaotic approach to handling the biggest challenge facing the country.

Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, faced calls to discipline fellow Conservative Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson for undermining her leadership by publishing his own manifesto for Brexit.

A week before negotiations between Britain and the bloc are due to resume in Brussels, the U.K. government announced Monday that the top civil servant on its negotiating team had left the Department for Exiting the European Union. The department said Oliver Robbins was moving to become May's EU adviser.

Reports of friction

The move follows reports of friction between Robbins and Brexit Secretary David Davis, the U.K.'s top negotiator.

Opposition Labour Party Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said the shuffle adds a whole new dimension to government's chaotic approach to Brexit.

In March, Britain triggered a two-year countdown to departure from the 28-nation EU. Since then, negotiations have made little progress on key issues including the status of the Ireland-Northern Ireland border and the amount Britain must pay to settle its financial commitments to the bloc.

EU officials say talks can't move on to future relations with Britain until key divorce terms have been agreed upon. May is making a major speech Friday in Florence, Italy, that is intended to help break the logjam.

But before she could speak, Johnson laid out his own vision of Britain's future outside the EU in a 4,000-word article for the Sunday Telegraph newspaper. It called for the U.K. to adopt a low-tax, low-regulation economy outside the EU's single market and customs union.

Sparks speculation

The article drew rebukes from May's Cabinet allies  and sparked immediate speculation that Johnson wants replace May as leader of the Conservative Party.



Unlike May, who campaigned to stay in the EU before last year's referendum, Johnson was an enthusiastic supporter of the leave side. He has the support of some Brexit-backing Conservative lawmakers, who worry that May will settle for a compromise soft Brexit that somehow keeps Britain inside the EU's single market.

Some lawmakers called on May to fire Johnson  whose bumbling, jokey persona masks intense political ambition  but she is likely in too weak a position to do so. Her authority was severely undermined when she called an early June 8 election in a bid to increase her majority  only to see the Conservatives reduced to a minority administration.

'Boris is Boris'

May said Monday that Boris is Boris, but insisted she was firmly in charge.



The U.K. government is driven from the front, and we all have the same destination in our sights, and that is getting a good deal for Brexit with the European Union, she said during a news conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa.

Johnson's article also was criticized by Britain's statistics regulator, which accused him of misleadingly claiming that leaving the EU will give Britain control of an extra 350 million pounds ($475 million) a week.

'Misuse of official statistics'

U.K. Statistics Authority chief David Norgrove called the figure a gross misuse of official statistics. He said the 350 million pounds was a gross rather than net figure. It doesn't take into account a substantial rebate that Britain receives before the money is sent, or money the EU sends to Britain, which reduces the figure to about half the amount cited.

Also Monday, the British government called for a wide-ranging security treaty with the EU to ensure that intelligence-sharing and law-enforcement cooperation continue after Brexit. Such a deal would allow Britain to remain a member of the EU police body Europol and keep use of the European Arrest Warrant, which allows for the quick extradition of suspects.



But it is unclear what legal framework would underpin such a treaty, because Britain says it will leave the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.
The Mexican military fought back against an armed attack in the violent southwestern state of Guerrero on Saturday night, leaving eight suspected gang members and one soldier dead, authorities said on Sunday.

At around 11 p.m., troops were making their rounds in the city of Teloloapan, about 155 miles (250 km) from Mexico City, when they came under gunfire from suspected gang members dressed in fake military uniforms, Roberto Alvarez Heredia, a spokesman for the Guerrero Coordinating Group, said in a statement.

The military secured two vans painted in camouflage, weapons and uniforms, authorities said.

A soldier was wounded in the confrontation and died afterward from his injuries.

The public prosecutor's office in Guerrero, home to the resort city of Acapulco on Mexico's Pacific coast, has begun an investigation into the attack, authorities said.

Violence has spiked in Guerrero over the past decade as a growing number of criminal gangs vie for control of crops of opium poppies and for drug-trafficking routes.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday he is confident "we have a chance" to forge a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians, but signaled new uncertainty about the U.S. view of the international deal curbing Iran's nuclear program.

"Most people would say there's no chance whatsoever" of an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal, Trump said as he got set for one-on-one talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly meetings. But Trump vowed to give peace efforts "an absolute go."

"I really think we have a chance," he said. "I think Israel would like to see it and I think the Palestinians would like to see it. And I can tell you that the Trump administration would like to see it."

But Trump deflected a question about what he plans to do about the 2015 deal that the U.S. and five other world powers negotiated with Iran to curb its nuclear weapons development in exchange for lifting economic sanctions against Tehran, a pact Netanyahu unsuccessfully sought to block.

"You'll be seeing very soon," Trump said.

The Trump administration, while criticizing Iran's military aggression in the Middle East, has twice certified that Iran is complying with the pact it agreed to with the U.S., Russia, China, France, Germany, Britain and the European Union, but faces a new certification deadline next month.

Netanyahu said he looked forward to discussing with Trump how the long-stalled peace efforts between the Jewish state and the Palestinians might be advanced. But he expressed deep concern about Iran.

"I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly called the terrible nuclear deal with Iran and how to roll back Iran's growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria," the Israeli prime minister said.
More than 55,000 ethnic Oromos have been displaced from Ethiopia's Somali region after a week of clashes with Somalis in which dozens were killed, the regional government of Ethiopia's restive Oromia region said on Sunday.



The statement from the Oromia government follows claims by Somali regional officials earlier this week that more than 50 people were killed in an attack against ethnic Somalis in Aweday town.



"More than 55,000 Oromos were displaced from the Somali region after the recent incident and are now sheltered in makeshift camps,'' Addisu Arega, Oromia region's spokesman, said in the statement. "Overall, some 416,807 Oromos have been displaced this year alone in fear of attacks by the Somali region's Special Police Force.''



Oromia officials say only 18 people were killed and that Oromos have been moving out of Somali towns and villages in fear of reprisals.

Border disputes between the two ethnic groups are common. Though they agreed to reconcile in April, conflict persists in many locations.



On Sunday the presidents of the two regions met in the capital Addis Ababa and said efforts are underway to resettle the displaced.



State-affiliated media reported the two leaders were told by federal authorities that areas facing ethnic conflict will be under the control of the Ethiopian army, and that regional forces would keep away from border locations.



Ethiopia's Somali region is currently experiencing drought conditions, while Oromia region was a hotbed of massive anti-government protests since November 2015 that claimed the lives of more than 600 people.
Dear reader, we're asking for your help to keep local reporting available for all. Your financial support keeps stories like this one free to read, instead of hidden behind paywalls. We believe when reliable local reporting is widely available, the entire community benefits. Thank you for investing in your neighborhood.

Start your day with LAist Sign up for How To LA, delivered weekday mornings. Subscribe

The 69th Primetime Emmy Awards had a fun, surprise guest: a former White House press secretary who once claimed that President Donald Trump's inauguration "was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration, period, both in person and around the globe" and later insisted that Hitler never used chemical weapons. (Photographic evidence blatantly showed otherwise; Hitler gassed millions of Jews).

During the end of his opening monologue Sunday night, Emmys host Stephen Colbert joked that there was no way of knowing how big the award show's audience was. "I mean, is there anyone who could say how big the audience is? Sean, do you know?" Colbert asked, before former White House press secretary Sean Spicer walked out on the stage, wheeling a mock White House podium.

The reactions to Sean Spicer were better than Sean Spicer #Emmys pic.twitter.com/KTBZwVwXCM  Emily Longeretta (@emilylongeretta) September 18, 2017

"This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person and around the world," Spicer said, echoing his own statements on the morning of January 22, when he lied to the American people with a straight face about inaugural crowd sizes, setting an ominous tone for facts coming out of the White House press room.

And then the crowd laughed (a few looked agape), Spicer grinned, and Colbert laid out one last, mild zinger: "Melissa McCarthy, everybody, give it up."

Congratulations, America, we've normalized Sean Spicer.

The reception appeared to be even warmer backstage, where Spicer was "mobbed" in the Emmys lobby, according to Hollywood Reporter reporter Chris Gardner:

What pariah? Sean Spicer getting mobbed in #Emmys lobby. Posing for pics, drinking beer, soaking up all attention after onstage appearance pic.twitter.com/WqJpaRtAvK  Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) September 18, 2017

The reception on the internet, however, was not quite as warm. Many called out what they perceived as the normalization of the former White House press secretary:

Ugh NO to Sean Spicer. It's so great that we can embrace someone who used a powerful position to abuse the press and lie to America.  Mark Harris (@MarkHarrisNYC) September 18, 2017

Do NOT cheer for Sean Spicer. This is how we normalize & excuse unethical, racist, sexist, etc. behavior. #emmys  Kelly Dittmar (@kdittmar) September 18, 2017

What fun to watch @seanspicer having a sense of humor about all the times he lied to the American public! GOOD SPORT! #emmys  Paul F. Tompkins (@PFTompkins) September 18, 2017

everyone who had a hand in bringing spicer on stage should be deeply, profoundly embarrassed  Ashley Feinberg (@ashleyfeinberg) September 18, 2017

Great work, everybody. This was almost as funny as the travel ban.
France on Monday gave a staunch defense of the Iran nuclear deal, suggesting there could be talks to strengthen the pact for the post-2025 period but that allowing it to collapse could lead Iran's neighbors to seek atomic weapons.

"It is essential to maintain it to avoid proliferation. In this period when we see the risks with North Korea, we must maintain this line," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters.

"France will try to convince [U.S.] President [Donald] Trump of the pertinence of this choice [keeping the accord] even if work can be done to complement the accord [after 2025]," he said.

Speaking on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly annual gathering of world leaders in New York, Le Drian said a collapse of the deal could lead to a regional arms race.

Key U.S. allies are worried by the possibility of Trump effectively pulling out of the landmark 2015 nuclear deal under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions.

Le Drian also made clear France's opposition to an Iraqi Kurdish independence referendum, saying Iraq's constitution had important provisions on the autonomy of the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq and "all other initiatives are inappropriate."



He also said the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council  Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States  on Thursday would discuss the possibility of a contact group on Syria, now in its seventh year of civil war.
Florida's economy has long thrived on one import above all: People.



Until Irma struck this month, the state was adding nearly 1,000 residents a day - 333,471 in the past year, akin to absorbing a city the size of St. Louis or Pittsburgh. Every jobseeker, retiree or new birth, along with billions spent by tourists, helped fuel Florida's propulsive growth and economic gains.



Yet Hurricane Irma's destructive floodwaters renewed fears about how to manage the state's population boom as the risks of climate change intensify. Rising sea levels and spreading flood plains have magnified the vulnerabilities for the legions of people who continue to move to Florida and the state economy they have sustained.



Florida faces an urgent need to adapt to the environmental changes, said Jesse Keenan, a lecturer at Harvard University who researches the effects of rising sea levels on cities.

A lot is going to change in the next 30 years - this is just the beginning,'' Keenan said.



People might need to live further inland, Keenan said, and employers might have to relocate to higher ground, with the resulting competition between offices and housing driving up land prices. It would become harder to adequately insure houses built along canals. Traffic delays could worsen across parts of Florida as more roads flood. Developers might shift away from sprawling suburban tracts toward denser urban pockets that are better equipped to manage floods.



At the same time, the belief remains firm among some developers and economists that for all the threats from rising water levels, the state's population influx will continue with scarcely any interruption. The allure of lower taxes and easier living, the thinking goes, should keep drawing a flow of residents and vacationers.



Irma doesn't change the fact that there is no state income tax, said Sean Snaith, director of the University of Central Florida's Institute for Economic Competitiveness. In a few months, when the first Alberta Clipper starts blowing down cold weather across the United States and it's 80 degrees and sunny down here, the memories of Irma will be blown away.

Certainly, the influx of people has been testament to that appeal. After slowing when the housing bubble burst in 2007, the population has marched steadily upward. The number of Floridians, now above 20 million, is projected to hit 24 million by 2030, with more than half the increase coming from retiring baby boomers. Many of them first experienced Florida as tourists. More than 112 million people visited the state last year - a 33 percent increase over the past decade.



All of which means that compared with Hurricane Andrew 25 years ago, Irma struck a far more densely packed state. It is also one marked by greater extremes of wealth and poverty. Luxury condo towers populated by the global elite now crowd the Miami skyline. But the metro area is also cursed by the worst rental housing affordability in the United States, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies.



Flooding washed away mobile home parks in the Florida Keys where lower-income workers live. As a magnet for jobs at restaurants, hotels and other parts of the services sector, the state attracts workers with relatively low incomes who can't pay higher rents if flooding eliminates a chunk of the housing stock.



Still, Citigroup estimated that damages were just $50 billion - well below initial estimates - in part because some homes were better equipped to weather the wind and rain than during Andrew.

Storms can cause population loss in the near term. A year after Andrew hit in 1992, Miami-Dade County lost 31,000 residents. Many appear to have moved to Broward and Palm Beach counties, where the risks of flooding were lower, a pattern that could be repeated after Irma.

Given the brisk pace of construction and population growth, Florida could endure a heavy economic blow in coming decades if it fails to reduce the risks from climate change. Homes that were too close to eroding beaches could become effectively worthless. Those along canals that flood could become too costly to rebuild. The state's economic fuel - tourism and residential development - could dissipate.



Sean Becketti, chief economist at Freddie Mac, the mortgage giant, warned in an analysis last year that rising sea levels and widening flood plains appear likely to destroy billions of dollars in property and to displace millions of people.



The economic losses and social disruption, Becketti added, may happen gradually, but they are likely to be greater in total than those experienced in the housing crisis and Great Recession.



Federal taxpayers might oppose bailing out these homeowners, Becketti said, mortgage lenders could absorb heavy losses and employers might choose to move to safer parts of the country - and take their jobs with them.



Still, for now at least, the heads of several major Florida real estate companies say they expect people to keep flocking to Florida despite the increasing risks.



Budge Huskey, president of Premier Sotheby's International Realty, drove around Naples, Florida, and said he observed very little damage to homes constructed under new building codes after Hurricane Andrew. These houses had wind-resistant hurricane windows and stronger roofs.



Let's face it, people work their whole lives to retire to Florida - that's where they want to be, Huskey said.



Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman's Florida brokerage, monitored Irma from an Atlanta hotel. He was gratified that Florida escaped much of the expected destruction. And he said would-be buyers, sniffing out potential bargains, were approaching him at the hotel about cut-rate deals on condos in the storm's wake.



If anything, Parker said, this might create some short-term buying sprees.
India says it has intelligence of links between Rohingya refugees and Pakistan-backed militants inside India, as it justifies plans to deport about 40,000 refugees who entered the country in the past five years.

India is walking a tightrope on the issue of the Rohingya refugees, it has come under scathing criticism from U.N. officials and rights groups for its plans to expel the illegal immigrants at a time when tens of thousands are fleeing alleged persecution in Myanmar.

But calling them a national security threat, New Delhi has indicated that it is in no mood to relent on its plan to identify and deport the refugees.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, a top aide of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said Tuesday that every country has the right to decide on its security policy.

His comment came a day after the government told the Supreme Court that it would confidentially share information from security agencies and other sources "indicating linkages of some of the unauthorized Rohingya immigrants with Pakistan-based terror organizations and similar organizations operating in other countries."

The top court is hearing a petition to stop the government from expelling Rohingya refugees living in the country. The government says the illegal immigrants figure into the plans of Islamic State and Pakistans spy agency, the Inter Services Intelligence, to create communal flare-ups in the country.

Indian police also said that on Sunday they arrested a British national, 27-year-old Samiun Rehman, who they said had come to India through Bangladesh to recruit Rohingya to fight for al-Qaida.

Political analysts say the Hindu nationalist government is under pressure from Hindu hardliners to expel the Rohingya, who are Muslims. The call to deport them is loudest in Jammu in northern India, where several thousand have settled.

Manoj Joshi at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi asks, Why the Rohingyas? There is no logic in it. He says, In this case, there is no instance, to my knowledge, where some Rohingya has been caught planning terrorist activity against India.

Scattered through several towns of India, the Rohingya refugees live in squalid conditions and have been appealing not to be deported, pointing out they have nowhere to go.

Indias hardline stand on the Rohingya has been criticized by the United Nations. Deploring its plans to deport the refugees at a time of violence in their country, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein last week accused India of lacking basic human compassion.

New Delhi shot back saying enforcing the laws should not be mistaken for lack of compassion.

India has also been doing a balancing act between its two neighbors on the sensitive issue. It has avoided overt criticism of Myanmar on the issue of Rohingya fleeing from Myanmar to Bangladesh. On a visit to Yangon earlier this month, Modi said New Delhi shared the countrys concerns about extremist violence in Rakhine state, from where the ethnic community has been fleeing.

But after Dhaka urged New Delhi to bring more pressure on Myanmar to end the persecution of the ethnic minority, India said it was concerned about the violence. It has also sent relief supplies for the refugees to Bangladesh to underline it is sensitive to the humanitarian concerns created by the mass influx.
Indonesias only Islamic school for transgender people closed with much drama in February 2016 after it came under fire by a local hardline Muslim group. The schools closure was one of the darkest points in a larger anti-LGBT hysteria that seized Indonesia in 2016, with its effects still reverberating.

If you ask today around the leafy Kotagede neighborhood of Yogyakarta, a university town in Central Java, for the Al-Fatah pesantren, or Islamic boarding school, you may get some blank stares. But if you ask for Ibu Shintas house, youll be immediately sent on your way. Even some locals dont realize her briefly famous school is up and running again. But for Ibu Shinta, the 2016 episode was only a hiccup in the history of Pesantren al-Fatah, which turns nine years old on Thursday.

Ibu (Madam) Shinta is Shinta Ratri, a 55-year-old transgender activist who moved the school to her familys Javanese-style house in 2014 when the schools original founder died. After four months of closure, Ibu Shinta quietly reopened al-Fatahs doors in June 2016, during Ramadan, which she described as a good time for worship.

Beyond providing a place for weekly religious study, the re-opened school is also a lifeline of services and just ordinary social life for the local transgender community.

Waria social services

Ibu Shinta and her students are known as waria, a term for transgender women that combines the Indonesian words for woman (wanita) and man (pria). Many have found employment as sex workers or in hair salons.

The al-Fatah school has become an important local center of the national Transgender Care program, an initiative of the Indonesian Family Planning Association to give vocational training, ID cards, and social services to waria across Indonesia.

There are also services related to education, like starting a trans school for waria adolescents, and programs for elderly waria like mobile clinics and food aid, Ibu Shinta told VOA. Complete, right? We pray that it works out.

On its last anniversary, the school organized a free health clinic with a local doctor that was attended by 76 people.

The Transgender Care program currently operates in eight provinces, and Ibu Shinta said an effort to map all its participants and services across Indonesia is an eventual goal.

Study group

Al-Fatahs main scholastic activity is a weekly study group that meets on Sunday evenings, where waria can pray together, discuss Islamic theology, and practice reading the Quran in Arabic.

On a recent Sunday, there were six waria present, including Ibu Shinta; she said there are about 42 members in total, but the weekly attendance fluctuates between seven and 25. A local university student helped Yuni Shara al-Buchory read some Quran verses. When the evening call to prayer sounded, they filed into the reception room to pray. Ibu Shinta and Yuni Shara put on satin mukenas, womens prayer dresses, and the others came as they were.

I felt lost for the four months the school was closed, without a place to study religion, said Yuni Shara. I would go into town to hang out, work, buy snacks, and eventually I would wonder: there is something missing, but what? During that time it was like, she said, her life was incomplete.

But it would be wrong to paint al-Fatah as merely a place for quiet study; after all, its students arent teenagers like in an ordinary pesantren, but working adults. The remaining six days a week, and even after hours on Sundays, its a community hub for Yogyakarta waria. They watch movies, cook and eat together, and swap gossip on each others clients.

Its a deep well of normalcy for a group that occupies an increasingly uncertain societal space. Granted, in Yogyakarta, that space is safer than elsewhere in Indonesia  even the regions sultan called on the community to respect the waria at the height of last years anti-gay hysteria.

Optimistic outlook

Today, Ibu Shinta is not at all concerned about local Islamists. She is focused on building up warias social safety net as well as her own school. Al-Fatah does not fundraise, but Ibu Shinta does ask researchers and students to donate about $15 when they visit.

There is rising community goodwill again, with Ibu Shinta pointing out that last year her school received one goat as a donation on Eid al-Adha (the holy annual Sacrifice Feast when animals are ceremonially slaughtered and shared, and this year they received two.

Waria and other trans women constructions or phenomena have been around for a very long time, said Dede Oetomo, a prominent LGBT rights activist based in East Java. Most Indonesians know about them, and have at least tolerated them if not accepted them fully, especially if they are not in their own families.

We are survivors, said Ibu Shinta. When there were attacks on and discrimination against us, it made us want to fight.
Iraq's supreme court has approved a request by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to suspend an independence referendum that the country's Kurdistan region planned to hold later this month.

The court said Monday the vote will be on hold until it reviews cases regarding the constitutionality of the vote.

Abadi has repeatedly spoken out against the referendum, including in an interview with the Associated Press on Saturday in which he called the independence vote a "dangerous escalation" that would invite violations of Iraqi sovereignty.



Abadi also told an Iraqi news agency that the Kurds would be "playing with fire" by continuing with plans for the referendum in the three governorates that make up the Kurdish autonomous region.

The Kurdish region has repeatedly ignored calls to cancel the referendum, and the supreme court has little power to implement its order.

Turkish opposition



On Friday, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim warned that the Iraqi Kurdish plan to hold an independence referendum was a "grave mistake."

Iraqi Kurdistan regional President Masoud Barzani is backing the referendum.

Turkey, which borders the Iraqi Kurdish region, has strong ties with Barzani, but Ankara has been stepping up its pressure to call off the vote.

"We dont want to impose sanctions, but, if we arrive at that point, there are steps that have been already planned that Turkey can take," Yildirim said.

Ankara, with its own restive Kurdish minority, that mainly borders Iraqi Kurdistan, fears an independent Kurdish state could fuel similar secessionist demands. Those fears are heightened by the suspicion that Syrian Kurds on the Turkish border harbor the same independence ambitions.

US against plan



The United States has voiced strong opposition to the independence vote.

On Friday the White House released a statement saying the United States "does not support" the Kurdish plan to hold a referendum, saying the plan "is distracting from efforts to defeat ISIS and stabilize the liberated areas." Further, it says, "Holding the referendum in disputed areas is particularly provocative and destabilizing."

The Trump administration is calling on the Kurds to cancel the referendum and instead engage in "serious and sustained dialogue with Baghdad," which the U.S. has offered to facilitate.

Iran has also registered its opposition to the referendum, but Turkey arguably has the most leverage on the Iraqi Kurds. The Habur border gate on Turkey's frontier with Iraq is the main trade route to the outside world for Iraqi Kurdistan, while an oil pipeline to the Turkish Mediterranean port of Ceyhan provides a financial lifeline.
Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jews clashed with Israeli security forces in Jerusalem Sunday when an anti-military demonstration turned violent.

The protest became violent when demonstrators blocked roads and resisted efforts to disperse them by riot police, mounted officers and by water cannons.

"Eight rioters who used violence against police were arrested," a police statement said

The protesters were demonstrating against the arrest of a community member for refusing to enlist in the military. The issue has gained attention since Israel's Supreme Court struck down a 2015 law that granted exemptions from military service to ultra-Orthodox men.

Most ultra-Orthodox seminary students are exempt from military service but they must obtain the exemption by submitting to a conscription process. Police say the man arrested refused to show up for recruitment.

Israeli men and women are required to join the military when they turn 18, but the ultra-Orthodox community has won exemptions, contending that young men studying in Jewish seminaries serve the nation through study and prayer.

Secular Israelis say the system is unfair, and the Supreme Court ruling last week endorsed that view. The high court delayed implementation of its ruling for one year, to give the government time to resolve the issue or, as many Israelis believe, to allow the ultra-Orthodox community to campaign for a new law extending the religious exemptions.
Myanmar's de-facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi has condemned human rights violations taking place in western Rakhine state, where ongoing violence has led more than 400,000 ethnic Rohingya Muslims to flee to neighboring Bangladesh in recent weeks.

But in a highly anticipated national speech from the capital, Naypyitaw, Tuesday, the Nobel Peace laureate refused to assess blame on Myanmar's security forces, who have been accused of engaging in ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya.

Aung San Suu Kyi has come under strong international criticism for not speaking out more forcefully on the situation. She canceled her appearance at the United Nations General Assembly this week in part to address the ongoing crisis at home.

She told a group of foreign diplomats in attendance that her country does not fear international scrutiny, and offered her assurance that any human rights violations or acts that impair stability and harmony will be dealt with in accordance with strict norms of justice.

But she insisted that all allegations are based on solid evidence before we take action.

It is not the intention of the Myanmar government to apportion blame or to abnegate responsibility, she said.

Balancing act for leader

Independent analyst Richard Horsey told VOA Aung San Suu Kyi had to balance international concerns about the plight of the Rohingya with nationalist sentiments among the country's majority Buddhists:

I think the content of the speech demonstrated very clearly how fine a line she feels she has to tread between what really are diametrically opposed views between the majority of people in Myanmar and much of the international community, he said.

Rohingya militants attacked Burmese security forces in late August. Since then, analysts and rights workers say the Burmese military has carried out a brutal crackdown that has burned entire villages and killed fleeing women and children.

Human rights watchdog Amnesty International reacted to Tuesday's speech with skepticism. Regional director James Gomez issued a statement saying Aung San Suu Kyi and her government are still burying their heads in the sand over the horrors unfolding in Rakhine State, and said the speech amounted to little more than a mix of untruths and victim blaming.

Aung San Suu Kyi also said Myanmar will set up a verification process for those refugees who wish to return home, and vowed their request will be accepted without hesitation.

During a call Tuesday with Aung San Suu Kyi, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson commended Myanmar's decision to allow those displaced by the violence to return home, and he urged the government to facilitate humanitarian aid for those still displaced, according to a readout of the call.

Request for mandate extension

In Geneva Tuesday, Marzuki Darusman, the head of the United Nations fact-finding mission on Myanmar, asked the Human Rights Council to extend the mission's mandate until next September. Myanmar has refused the allow the U.N. investigators to enter the country, but Darusman told the Council that Aung San Suu Kyis comments bode well for the potential success of the mission.

However, Htin Lynn, Myanmar's ambassador to the U.N.-backed council, told the panel his government reiterates its position dissociating from the resolution that created the fact-finding mission.

The world body's International Organization for Migration updated its estimate of the number of Rohingyas who have fled to Bangladesh at 421,000.

Satellite photos show destruction

Satellite imagery of the Rakhine State released Tuesday by Human Rights Watch shows near total destruction in more than 200 villages.

(The pictures) show the destruction of tens of thousands of homes across Maungdaw and Rathedaung Townships, part of the Burmese security forces' campaign of ethnic cleansing that has forced over 400,000 Rohingya Muslims to flee to neighboring Bangladesh, HRW said in a statement accompanying the photos.

Kicking off the United Nations General Assembly Tuesday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was shocked by the dramatic escalation of secretarial tensions in Myanmar, and he called on authorities to end the military operations in Rakhine.

They must also address the grievances of the Rohingya whose people have been left and resolved for far too long, Guterres said in his speech in New York.

Sideline meeting on situation

A day earlier, on the sidelines of the UNGA, diplomats from the United States, Britain and other countries concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Rakhine called for an end to the violence and for measures to relieve Rohingya refugees suffering. U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley said Monday diplomats held a productive meeting about the dire situation, but that no improvement has been seen on the ground in the area where displaced Rohingyas have been fleeing into Bangladesh.

We continue to hear reports of violence and suffering, Haley said afterwards. People are still at risk of being attacked or killed, humanitarian aid is not reaching the people who need it, and innocent civilians are still fleeing across the border to Bangladesh.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson convened the meeting with Haley, Myanmar's national security adviser and deputy foreign minister, and other senior officials. Ministers from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Turkey, Australia, Canada, Sweden and Denmark attended the private meeting.

In addition to their call for an end to violence and full, unimpeded access for humanitarian workers from the United Nations and other agencies, Johnson said the ministerial group felt that while Burma has undoubtedly made encouraging progress towards democracy in the last few years, the situation in Rakhine, the terrible human-rights abuses and violence are a stain on the country's reputation.
The June 2017 elections were supposed to soothe the troubled politics of Lesotho, a tiny enclave surrounded on all sides by South Africa. It was the third poll in five years, after two successive coalitions collapsed amid vicious infighting and meddling from the army.

The third time was supposed to be the charm, as incoming prime minister Tom Thabane promised to swiftly enact reforms to loosen the military's stranglehold on politics.

But last week's killing of the army chief by two of his subordinates has raised concerns that more instability is ahead. The recent arrest of a journalist who criticized the government and the shutdown of his radio station has made the situation more dire, critics of the government say.

'Reign of terror'

Among those with high hopes for the new government were those who were voted out.

But in the past three months, says opposition politician Tlohang Sekhamane, the nation has fallen "under the reign of terror, and is fast degenerating into a dark political abyss of fear and consternation."

In an eight-page statement sent to VOA, the opposition documents a litany of worrying events, including police targeting residents thought to be opposition supporters; a brutal assault on a police spokeswoman by colleagues after she spoke about an investigation into the shooting death of the prime minister's estranged wife; and the arrest, alleged torture, and subsequent flight of an opposition lawmaker.

The nation's communication minister confirmed the lawmaker's August arrest, but said he was called in as a person of interest in a murder case, and was treated well while in custody.

Multiple attempts to reach the minister regarding the other allegations were not successful.

"We are literally under the reign of terror now," Sekhamane said to VOA. "The police can seize anybody, doesn't matter how very high-placed they were, a person at the level of minister can be taken, instructed to come to the police, and they do that, and then they can be tortured for three days, and then also over the weekend, and then they are forced to say certain things."

Rights watchdog Amnesty International says it is also worried about recent events in Lesotho.

"Really what we're seeing is patterns of arbitrary arrest, we're seeing allegations of torture and other ill treatment, we're seeing a lack of progress into criminal investigations for unlawful killings, and we're also seeing attacks on freedom of expression in Lesotho," said researcher Shireen Mukadam.

Why now?

Sekhamane says the opposition waited for months to speak up about their concerns. They were determined not do anything, he says, that could be "interpreted as an attempt on our path to destabilize the government or to make things difficult for the government."

"We were determined to leave this government to proceed, and govern this country for five years," he added.

Now, the opposition and rights groups are calling on the international community and on the Southern African Development Community, to assist in restoring the rule of law.

The Southern African Development Community has made numerous attempts at mediation in Lesotho, which has a history of military coups. Heads of state met over the weekend in South Africa to discuss the issue.

The SADC nations' frustration was clear, with host President Jacob Zuma saying, "We cannot, and shall not, be in Lesotho forever."
Blasphemy is an emotive topic in Pakistan, where strong religious sentiments have led in the past to mob violence and worse.

For those accused of blasphemy - which can include anything seen as a deliberate insult to God, Islam or religious leaders - such an offense is literally a life-and-death matter. The relevant section of Pakistan's penal code recommends either life imprisonment or death for any convicted blasphemer.

The issue has arisen again in Punjab, where a court last week condemned to death a Christian, Nadeem James, based on evidence police gathered from a friend who said James sent him a blasphemous poem via instant-messenger WhatsApp. A prosecutor confirmed the contention by James's defense lawyer that he never sent any blasphemous material to anyone.

The accused said ... he never sent any blasphemous message through his cellphone, prosecution lawyer Rana Naveed Anjum told VOA Urdu. But once something has been alleged against you and there is enough evidence on record corroborating that assertion, then it is hard to deny or overlook such material.

A fair trial is difficult

A prominent Pakistani human-rights activist, Mehdi Hassan, said the emotive nature of blasphemy makes it difficult to get a fair trial in cases involving religious beliefs.

In Pakistan, religious might is very influential," Hassan told VOA, "and that thinking has an impact on police and other departments in such cases.

Nadeem James's defense attorney, Anjum Wakeel, has said his client was "framed" by his so-called friend, "who was annoyed by [James's] affair with a Muslim girl.

Prosecutor Anjum agreed that James told investigators he had been framed.

Feelings ran high in the case, and the trial was held in secret, in a prison, because James and members of his family had been receiving threats, some of them by local clerics.

'Blasphemy' can mask personal disputes

Blasphemy remains one of Pakistan's most controversial laws. Rights groups say accusations of blasphemy are subject to abuse, and are made to settle personal disputes or vendettas.

Activist Mehdi Hassan said the countrys political parties should play a more active role and press Pakistani society to curb the misuse of these laws.

To address this problem as a long-term solution, political parties should play a role, because democracy gives a level playing field to everyone," Hassan told VOA.

Referring to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the revered founder of modern-day Pakistan, Hassan added: "We have to remember what Mr. Jinnah said, Religious beliefs are the personal matter of an individual.'"

Jinnah was a lawyer and political figure prior to the partition of the Indian subcontinent that broke up the British Raj and created India and Pakistan as separate states in 1947. He served as Pakistan's first governor-general until his death a year later.

A history of violence

Past blasphemy cases have stirred public anger that spiraled into mob violence and killings.

In April of this year, Mashaal Khan, a journalism student at Abdul Wali Khan University in Mardar, Pakistan, was beaten and shot dead by fellow students angered by accusations that he had posted blasphemous content online. In 2014, an angry mob in Punjab beat a Christian couple to death over blasphemy accusations, and in a high-profile case in 2011, Punjab Governor Salman Taseer was killed by his bodyguard after Taseer proposed reforms for the blasphemy laws.

Despite criticism, Pakistan's government has been advocating strict enforcement of blasphemy laws. In April the government used newspaper advertising and text messages on mobile phones to warn millions of Pakistanis not to post, share or upload blasphemous material online. Anyone encountering such material was asked to report it to the authorities.

According to a recent Human Rights Watch report on Pakistan, ten Muslims and five non-Muslims were arrested in 2016 on blasphemy charges, and at least 19 people convicted of blasphemy were sentenced to death and are being held in prison.
U.N. investigators are calling for perpetrators of crimes against civilians in Syrias long-running civil war to be prosecuted and brought to justice. The latest report submitted to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva by the International Commission of Inquiry on Syria documents multiple atrocities and gross violations committed by all warring parties.

The Commission of Inquiry has run out of patience with U.N. member states it accuses of having done little to hold perpetrators of crimes in Syria accountable. Commission Chair Sergio Pinheiro calls the deadlock at the Security Council on Syria after six years of war "reprehensible" and at times bewildering.

He told delegates at the U.N. Human Rights Council that civilians continue to be deliberately attacked, deprived of humanitarian aid, forcibly displaced and arbitrarily detained or held hostage by all warring parties.

He said most civilians are killed and maimed by the unlawful use of conventional arms, particularly through indiscriminate shooting and aerial bombardments in populated areas.

We have a duty under our mandate, however, to document the unambiguously illegal use of prohibited chemical weapons, in blatant violation of international law and attribute responsibility accordingly," he said. "In several instances, Government forces used chemical weapons against civilians in opposition-held areas, including in Khan Shaykhun, Idlib on 4 April.

Pinheiro says that chemical attack killed 80 people, mostly women and children, injuring hundreds more. He says the attack took place during a Syrian and Russian aerial campaign in northern Hama and southern Idlib that targeted medical facilities.

These charges elicited a hostile and angry reply from Syrian Ambassador Hussam Edin Aala, who accused the Commissioners of using fabricated, biased information from unreliable sources. He called the assertion his Government used chemical weapons a pack of lies.
Hundreds of riot police mobilized in downtown St. Louis overnight, arresting more than 80 people and seizing weapons amid reports of property damage and vandalism following another day of peaceful protests over a former police officer's acquittal in the killing of a black man.

The arrests late Sunday came after demonstrators ignored orders to disperse, police said.

I'm proud to tell you the city of St. Louis is safe and the police owned tonight, Interim Police Chief Lawrence O'Toole said at a news conference early Monday.

A judge ruled Friday that Jason Stockley, who left the police department and moved to Houston three years ago, was not guilty in the 2011 death of Anthony Lamar Smith. The ruling set off raucous protests throughout the weekend. Another peaceful demonstration was expected Monday.

On Sunday, more than 1,000 people gathered at police headquarters then marched without trouble through downtown St. Louis, the posh Central West End, and the trendy Delmar Loop area of nearby University City. Protesters also marched through two shopping malls in a wealthy area of St. Louis County.

By nightfall, most had gone home. The 100 or so people who remained grew increasingly agitated as they marched back toward downtown. Along the way, they knocked over planters, broke windows at a few shops and hotels, and scattered plastic chairs at an outdoor venue.

According to police, the demonstrators then sprayed bottles with an unknown substance on officers.

One officer suffered a leg injury and was taken to a hospital. His condition wasn't known.

Soon afterward, buses brought in additional officers in riot gear, and police scoured downtown deep into the night, making arrests and seizing at least five weapons, according to O'Toole. Later, officers in riot gear gathered alongside a city boulevard chanting whose street, our street - a common refrain used by the protesters - after clearing the street of demonstrators and onlookers.

We're in control. This is our city and we're going to protect it, O'Toole said.

Mayor Lyda Krewson said at the same Monday news conference that the days have been calm and the nights have been destructive and that destruction cannot be tolerated.

The recent St. Louis protests follow a pattern seen since the August 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson: The majority of demonstrators, though angry, are law-abiding. But as the night wears on, a subsection emerges, a different crowd more willing to confront police, sometimes to the point of clashes.

Protest organizer Anthony Bell said he understands why some act out: While change can come through peaceful protests, such as those led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., years of oppression has caused some to turn violent.

I do not say the [violent] demonstrators are wrong, but I believe peaceful demonstrations are the best, Bell said.

State Rep. Bruce Franks, a Democrat who has participated in the peaceful protests, said those behind the violence are not protesters.

The late night unrest since the verdict was issued has led to destruction across the St. Louis area. It was after nightfall Friday that people shattered a window at the home of Mayor Lynda Krewson, smashed about two dozen windows and threw trash cans and rocks at police in University City on Saturday, and knocked out windows downtown on Sunday.

Many protesters believe police provoked demonstrators by showing up in riot gear and armored vehicles; police said they had no choice but to protect themselves once protesters started throwing things at them.

Democratic Rep. Michael Butler said police should target the agitators and allow others to continue demonstrating. He protested Friday, and after that said police have been doing a poor job of identifying bad actors in the crowds.

There's not been any learning from Ferguson, Butler said.

Stockley shot Smith after high-speed chase as officers tried to arrest Smith and his partner in a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified he felt endangered because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smith's car after the shooting. The officer's DNA was on the weapon but Smith's wasn't. Dashcam video from Stockley's cruiser recorded him saying he was going to kill this [expletive]. Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockley's lawyer dismissed the comment as human emotions during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didn't prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley murdered Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.
1 Members of the cavalry rehearse at the beach of Scheveningen on the eve of a parade in The Hague, The Netherlands.
Kulsoom Nawaz, wife of Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, easily won election Sunday to fill the seat he formerly held.

The victory by Kulsoom Nawaz was expected, since the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party is dominant in the central Lahore constituency. The former prime minister had held the seat since the mid-1980s, when he first entered national politics.

Official media reported the winning candidate had 61,254 votes, to just over 47,000 for her main rival, Yasmin Rahid of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. But above and beyond Sunday's by-election, the result was seen as a critical test for the Sharif dynasty ahead of Pakistan's national elections next year.

The countrys Supreme Court, which has been hearing a high-profile corruption case against Nawaz Sharif and his children, ruled in July that Sharif had concealed overseas assets, and ordered his removal from office for "dishonesty."

Kulsoom Nawaz is currently in London undergoing cancer treatment, with her husband at her side. Their daughter, Maryam Nawaz, ran the election campaign in her mothers absence.

The younger woman, who has been described as a future leader by political insiders in Pakistan, addressed jubilant workers from the PML-N party late Sunday evening.

In her speech, televised live from the family residence in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz said outcome of the election demonstrated the publics love for Sharif, and rejected his disqualification for office.

Pakistan's High Court said it dismissed Sharif because he had not reported monthly earnings he received from an overseas company owned by his son. The former prime minister denied that he had received any salary, or knew anything about the payments, which first were discovered after he was elected prime minister for a third time in 2013.

Sharifs first term as Pakistan's prime minister, in the early 1990s, also ended abruptly when he was dismissed by presidential decree after being accused of corruption. Back in office a few years later, he was overthrown by a military coup in 1999 and exiled to Saudi Arabia along with other family members.
A suicide blast near one of Pakistan's two main border crossings with Afghanistan has wounded at least 22 people, including several members of the security forces.

Monday evening's attack prompted Pakistani authorities to swiftly suspended all traffic at the southwestern Chaman post.

Officials said personnel of the paramilitary Frontier Corps were heading to the border crossing when a suicide bomber ambushed their vehicle and blew himself up near a busy public spot.

Splinter group takes credit

A splinter Pakistani Taliban faction, Jamaatul Ahrar, quickly claimed responsibility for plotting the attack.

Pakistani authorities said body parts of a teenage boy have been retrieved from the site and investigators are trying to determine whether he was the bomber.

Islamabad alleges fugitives of the outlawed JuA extremist outfit use sanctuaries on Afghan soil to orchestrate terrorist attacks against Pakistan, accusing Kabul's intelligence agency of supporting the activity.

Afghan officials deny the accusations.

Torkham crossing bombed last week

Last week, a bomb explosion at the busiest northwestern Torkham border crossing injured several Pakistani soldiers, prompting authorities to suspend all movement across the frontier for a couple of days.

Landlocked Afghanistan relies on the Chaman and Torkham crossings for transit and trade with Pakistan and other countries.

Military clashes between the two countries and militant attacks on Pakistani territory have led to repeated closures of the two crossings, inflicting heavy financial losses on trading activity, say Afghan traders.
The Deir al-Zor military airport in eastern Syria, which the Syrian army recaptured this month from Islamic State, began functioning again on Monday for the first time in nearly a year, Syrian state media and a monitoring group said.

The military base is seen as a valuable asset for the Syrian army as it presses its campaign against Islamic State in Deir al-Zor province.

Two planes landed and took off from the base on Monday, state TV reported  the first such activity there since September 2016, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said.

Monday's flights carried aid to Deir al-Zor, Syrian state media and the British-based Observatory said.

On Sunday, the United Nations said it had halted costly air drops to the city as a land corridor opened.

The U.N. has estimated that some 93,000 people were living in "extremely difficult" conditions in government-held parts of Deir al-Zor during the Islamic State siege and were supplied by air drops to the base.

Syrian government forces and their allies broke Islamic State's three-year siege of Deir al-Zor earlier this month, reaching the government-held enclave in the city and the adjacent air base.

The Syrian army and U.S.-backed militias are fighting separate offensives against Islamic State in the province, the jihadist group's last major stronghold in Syria.
On a sweltering Washington summer day, President Donald Trump's motorcade pulled up to the Pentagon for a meeting largely billed as a briefing on the Afghanistan conflict and the fight against the Islamic State group.

There, in the windowless meeting room known as The Tank, Trump was to be briefed on the state of America's longest-running war as he and his top aides plotted ways ahead. But, according to current and former U.S. officials familiar with the meeting, it was, in reality, about much more.



Trump's national security team had become alarmed by the president's frequent questioning about the value of a robust American presence around the world. When briefed on the diplomatic, military and intelligence posts, the new president would often cast doubt on the need for all the resources. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson organized the July 20 session to lay out the case for maintaining far-flung outposts - and to present it, using charts and maps, in a way the businessman-turned-politician would appreciate.



The session was, in effect, American Power 101 and the student was the man working the levers. It was part of the ongoing education of a president who arrived at the White House with no experience in the military or government and brought with him advisers deeply skeptical of what they labeled the globalist worldview. In coordinated efforts and quiet conversations, some of Trump's aides have worked for months to counter that view, hoping the president can be persuaded to maintain - if not expand - the American footprint and influence abroad.



The result of the meeting and other similar entreaties may start to become clear this week, as Trump heads to New York for his first address to the United Nations General Assembly. The annual gathering of world leaders will open amid serious concerns about Trump's priorities, his support for the body he is addressing and a series of spiraling global crises.

The basics of Americas role

Trump, who seized as his mantra America First and at times unnerved world leaders with his unpredictability, is expected to offer warmth to the United States' allies and warnings to its adversaries, particularly North Korea and Iran. The president's envoy to the global body suggested a presidential message that would focus on the basics on America's role in the world.



I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with the U.S. being very strong in the end, Ambassador Nikki Haley said.



In the weeks since the briefing in the Tank, Trump has split with top adviser Steve Bannon, the engine of many of his nationalist, isolationist policies. He threatened war with North Korea and agreed to send more U.S. troops to Afghanistan, abandoning his promise to withdraw quickly. Announcing the plan, Trump acknowledged the influence of his advisers.

My original instinct was to pull out - and, historically, I like following my instincts, he said. But all my life I've heard that decisions are much different when you sit behind the desk in the Oval Office; in other words, when you're president of the United States. So I studied Afghanistan in great detail and from every conceivable angle.



On July 20, Trump, Bannon, then-White House chief of staff Reince Priebus, senior adviser Jared Kushner and others stepped from the presidential motorcade and filed down a corridor adorned with formal portraits of former joint chiefs chairmen and into Room 2E924, identified by a small, unobtrusive plaque as The Tank, to join Vice President Mike Pence, Mattis and Tillerson as well as a host of briefers.



Armed with charts, maps and diagrams, those briefers spent the next roughly 90 minutes explaining to Trump the critical importance of forward worldwide deployments of U.S. military, intelligence and diplomatic assets, according to two current officials and one former official familiar with the meeting. While the war in Afghanistan and against the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq were major topics, the stationing of U.S. personnel in Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America were also covered, said the officials who were not authorized to discuss details of the highly classified briefing and spoke on condition of anonymity.



Answering one key question

The officials said the purpose was to answer one of Trump's most persistent questions of his national security aides: Why does the U.S. government need so many people abroad? As such, it was a comprehensive look at military bases, embassies and consulates, CIA stations and other intelligence posts, presented by experts sitting around a large conference table and in chairs lining the walls.



To be successful, Mattis and Tillerson decided they should use talking points and commentary with which they believed Trump would be most familiar: the role that the military, intelligence officers and diplomats play in making the world safe for American businesses, like The Trump Organization, to operate and expand abroad. American troops provide stability, diplomats push rule of law and anti-corruption measures and the intelligence community provides context and analysis that drive the first two, the briefers explained, according to the officials.



The implications of American retrenchment in an age of increasing international competition were also discussed, the officials said. One chart presented included two maps depicting the exponential growth of China's presence in Africa over the past two decades and its impact on U.S. national security and private foreign investment, according to the officials.



Trump emerged and declared it a very good meeting.



As a student, Trump is known to be alternatively eager and easily distracted.



CIA chief Mike Pompeo has called Trump both an avid and voracious consumer of intelligence. Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats, speaking just a day after the Pentagon meeting, told an audience at the Aspen Security Forum that Trump interrupted briefings so often that he and his team frequently needed to circle back to their main points multiple times.



What we found is someone who has not been in government, not been in the intelligence business, not having relationship to that, but is asking an awful lot of questions and a lot of them were good questions, he said.



White House aides have readied a crash course for Trump as he prepares for the General Assembly, in part necessitated because the president has delayed some of his preparations, choosing instead to focus on the federal government's response to a pair of massive hurricanes and, to a lesser extent in recent days, his dealings with Democrats on immigration issues, according to the officials and advisers.
A group of refugees stayed at U.S. President Donald Trump's childhood home in New York over the weekend as part of a stunt to highlight the plight of people feeling conflict and persecution around the world, a charity said on Monday.

Aid agency Oxfam said it rented the house and invited refugees from Somalia, Vietnam and Syria as guests to call on Trump and other world leaders to do more to support refugees as they gather in New York for the U.N. General Assembly this week.

Trump's administration has issued a ban on people entering the United States from six Muslim-majority countries that also limited refugee admissions.

"Lives are hanging in the balance while we wait to see if President Trump and other world leaders will fulfill their duty to uphold the rights of refugees and other displaced people," said Shannon Scribner, director of Oxfam America's humanitarian department.

Trump lived in the five-bedroom, brick-fronted home built by his father, Fred, in a wealthy enclave in the borough of Queens until age 4.

The Tudor-style house, which has a fireplace, a sun room and a paneled study, was purchased by an unidentified buyer for $2.14 million at an auction in March and is now up for rent on Airbnb.

Oxfam said its staff laid a mat emblazoned with the words "Refugees Welcome" and displayed a banner with the same slogan outside the property at the weekend, while four refugees shared their stories inside.

Abdi Iftin said he felt lucky to have been able to a build a new life in the United States after feeling conflict in his native Somalia.

"I had to leave my home and family behind, but here I can work hard and help provide for them," he was quoted as saying by Oxfam.

The charity said it hoped the initiative would give a face to an issue that is too often politicized with myths, lies, and fears.

"What makes America great is our diversity of experiences, ideas, talents, and the opportunity for anyone to succeed," Scribner said in a statement.

The world is grappling with the worst migration crisis in decades, with more than 65 million people driven from their homes by war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere, according to U.N. estimates.

The U.S. Supreme Court is to hold a key hearing on the constitutionality of Trump's controversial ban in October.
When President Donald Trump takes the world stage at the United Nations for the first time this week, he will share the spotlight with his envoy Nikki Haley, who has emerged as the surprising public face of U.S. foreign policy.

Haley, the 45-year-old former South Carolina governor, has proven to be a high-profile member of Trump's administration, at times overshadowing Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, the former chief executive of Exxon Mobil Corp, despite her lack of previous foreign policy experience, diplomats say.

"For the U.S., Nikki Haley is remarkable. It's hard to find in the Trump administration. It's someone who is very approachable and politically very assertive," said a senior European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"I see her potentially taking over from Tillerson at some point. It's clear her long-term objective is the presidency," the diplomat said.

Haley dismisses speculation she could replace Tillerson, the country's top diplomat, who has at times publicly differed with Trump during the president's eight months in the White House.

On Sunday, she told CNN that Tillerson is "not going anywhere and I continue to work well with him."

Trump's speech on Tuesday at the U.N. General Assembly will be his highest profile opportunity to explain his foreign policy vision couched in his America First agenda.

Haley arrived at the 193-member world body in January pledging to "take names" of allies who did not have Washington's back. Trump administration officials say the president, happy with her performance, views her as both tough and smart. He speaks regularly with Haley, his fellow Republican, one U.S. administration official said.

Bluntness raises eyebrows

Twice in five weeks she persuaded the 15-member U.N. Security Council to unanimously boost sanctions on North Korea.

Her blunt language has raised eyebrows among diplomats. At the same time she has been careful not to steal the limelight from Trump, a wealthy businessman and former reality television star.

"I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with the U.S. being very strong in the end," Haley told White House reporters on Friday.

European Council on Foreign Relations U.N. expert Richard Gowan said Haley's success could make Trump nervous and that it would be a "bad deal for her" if she was asked to replace Tillerson as secretary of state.

"She would lose the independence she enjoys in New York and [it would] tie her more closely to the president's agenda. But it is an offer that she could not refuse. It's an irony that the one way Trump can hurt Haley is to promote her," he said.

Haley credits Trump with any U.S. achievements at the United Nations. After the Security Council toughened sanctions on North Korea this month, she praised his "strong relationship" with his Chinese counterpart for the result.

When he dismissed the September 11 U.N. resolution, which had been weakened by China and Russia, as "just another very small step, not a big deal," Haley jumped to his defense and dismissed any suggestion they were not on the same page.

"If we have to go further, this is going to look small compared to what we do," she said at the time.

Made her mark

Haley has made her mark also by fighting what she describes as U.N. anti-Israel bias, pushing for U.N. reform amid Trump's call to slash U.S. funding, accusing Iran of meddling in the Middle East and challenging Russia over Ukraine and its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.



A senior administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that during a National Security Council meeting on Iran this month, Trump specifically asked Haley's opinion about what strategy to pursue.

"She gave her opinion, and he liked her point of view," the official said. "She wasn't afraid to speak up."

A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "This lady for some reason is very angry with Iran."

Before her selection as ambassador, Haley made national headlines when as governor she led a successful effort to remove the Confederate battle flag, viewed by many as a racist emblem, from the grounds of the South Carolina state capitol after the killing of nine black churchgoers in her state.

During the 2016 presidential campaign Haley sparred with Trump, backing one of his rivals before he became the Republican candidate. The daughter of immigrants from India, Haley took Trump to task over his harsh campaign rhetoric about illegal immigration and for not speaking forcefully enough against white supremacists.

When last month Trump inflamed tensions by saying thatcounter-protesters were also to blame for a deadly rally by white nationalists in Virginia, Haley spoke up, telling U.S. media she had a "personal conversation" with him about it.

Without naming Trump she wrote to staff at the U.S. mission to the United Nations to say that everyone must stand up and condemn hate.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned Monday that Washington will walk away from a nuclear deal it agreed to with Iran and five other nations if it deems that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is not tough enough in monitoring it.



Iran, however, said the greatest threat to the nuclear agreement is U.S. hostility.



The warning from Trump came in a message to the U.N. agency's annual meeting, being held in Vienna, that was read by U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry.



The United States asserts that Iran is obligated to open its military sites to IAEA inspection on demand if the agency suspects unreported nuclear activities at any of them. That's something Tehran stridently rejects, and Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi urged the agency and its head, Yukiya Amano, to resist such unacceptable demands.

Asserting that Iran is fully complying with terms of the accord, Salehi said the greatest threat to its survival is the American administration's hostile attitude.



But Trump, as quoted by Perry, suggested the deal could stand or fail on IAEA access to Iranian military sites, declaring we will not accept a weakly enforced or inadequately monitored deal.

IAEA: Iran fulfilling commitments

Amano also has said the IAEA's policing authority extends to Iranian military sites, if necessary. But he said Monday that Iran is fulfilling the commitments it entered into under the deal, which took effect early last year and offers sanctions relief in exchange for limits on Iranian nuclear programs that could be turned toward making weapons.



The U.S. administration has faced two 90-day certification deadlines to state whether Iran was meeting the conditions needed to continue enjoying sanctions relief under the deal and has both times backed away from a showdown. But Trump more recently has said he does not expect to certify Iran's compliance with an October deadline looming.



On North Korea, Trump, as cited by Perry, again suggested that a military strike remained on the table to counter Pyongyang's rapidly expanding nuclear weapons capacity, saying Washington continues to consider all options to meet the threat.



And he said the international community must continue to hold Syria accountable for its past construction of a clandestine nuclear reactor.



Syria denies building such a facility and the issue has faded, due in part to verification difficulties created by the Syrian war. But Amano has gone on record as saying that a target destroyed by Israeli warplanes in the Syrian desert in 2007 was the covert site of a future nuclear reactor.
U.S. President Donald Trump says he long ago recognized the promise of the United Nations when he chose a spot across the street to build a residential tower.



I actually saw great potential right across the street, to be honest with you, Trump told leaders gathered to support overhauling the U.N. system.

It was only for the reason that the United Nations was here that it turned out to be such a successful project, he said referencing his Trump World Tower, which sits across from the U.N. complex.

The American president made his U.N. debut Monday, speaking at a U.S.-hosted meeting on reforming how the world body is managed, which was held on the sidelines of the annual U.N. General Assembly.



We encourage the secretary-general to fully use his authority to cut through bureaucracy, reform outdated systems, and make firm decisions to advance the U.N.s core mission, Trump said. He added that the focus should be more on results than process.

WATCH: Trump on U.N. reform:

The United Nations, with its multibillion-dollar annual budget, numerous peacekeeping missions and bloated staff, has been a target of Trumps criticism for years.

To honor the people of our nations, we must ensure that no one and no member state shoulders a disproportionate share of the burden, and thats militarily or financially, the president added.



U.S. contribution



The United States is the U.N.s largest single donor, contributing more than $600 million last year to the regular budget of more than $2.5 billion. Washington also contributes more than $2 billion annually to support U.N. peacekeeping missions, and hundreds of millions more to vital programs, including the U.N. Childrens Fund and the World Food Program.

But under the Trump administration, many programs have come under funding threat. In April, the administration announced it would slash $75 million to the U.N. Population Fund, which provides health care to vulnerable women and girls. The administration has also held a review of each U.N. peacekeeping mission and compromised on an overall cut to the $8 billion annual budget of around a half a billion dollars.

Watch: Trump, Guterres on bureaucracy:

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made streamlining U.N. bureaucracy one of his campaign pledges.



Fragmented structures, Byzantine procedures, endless red tape, is what Guterres said keeps him awake at night during Monday's U.N. reform meeting. To serve the people we support and the people who support us, we must be nimble and effective, flexible and efficient, the secretary-general added.

The United States asked countries to sign onto a 10-point plan to enhance the U.N.s efficiency and effectiveness to gain entry to the Trump meeting. U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley said 128 countries had endorsed it, and encouraged the rest to do so.



On Tuesday, President Trump will address at the annual General Assembly debate, where leaders will be anxious to hear his perspective on a range of issues, including North Korea's nuclear threat, the war in Syria, counter-terrorism, and whether the United States will remain in important multilateral agreements such as the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate accord.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi this week to discuss their concerns about an independence referendum in Iraq's Kurdish region.

Turkey, the United States and other Western powers have advised authorities in the semi-autonomous region to cancel the vote, worrying that tensions it would generate might act as an unwelcome distraction from the war on Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

With the largest Kurdish population in the region, Turkey also fears that a "Yes" vote would fuel separatism in its southeast, where militants of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) have waged an insurgency for three decades.

Kurdish leader Massoud Barzani said on Friday the referendum would go ahead as planned on Sept. 25.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday before departing for New York to attend the U.N. General Assembly, Erdogan said Ankara and Baghdad had the same view regarding the referendum.

"We will have a meeting with Mr. Abadi in the United States, and from what we can see our goal is the same. Our goal is not dividing Iraq," said Erdogan, who earlier said that Barzani's decision to not postpone the vote was "very wrong."

Late on Saturday Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said the referendum was an issue of national security and Turkey would take any necessary steps in response.

In Istanbul, close to a thousand people gathered to protest the inclusion of Kirkuk in the referendum, at an event organized by the nationalist opposition MHP party.

Kirkuk, an oil-rich province claimed by authorities in both Baghdad and the Kurdish region, was included after its governor, Najmaddin Kareem, voted in favor of taking part.

Iraq's parliament voted on Thursday to remove the governor from office following a request from Abadi, according to several lawmakers present, a move Barzani condemned.

Last month, MHP leader Devlet Bahceli said the referendum should be viewed by Ankara as a reason for war "if necessary," but the prime minister dismissed the comments.

Bahceli's ideas reflect those of a segment of Turkish society fiercely opposed to the idea of an independent Kurdistan and supportive of Iraq's Turkmen ethnic minority, which has historical and cultural ties to Turkey.

With Barzani pressing on with the referendum, Erdogan said the Turkish government had brought forward planned national security council and cabinet meetings to Sept. 22 and that Turkey would announce its position on the referendum afterwards.

Turkey has, however, built good relations with Barzani's administration, founded on strong economic links and shared suspicions of other Kurdish groups and Iraq's central government.

The Kurdish Regional Government, led by Barzani's KDP party, exports hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil every day to world markets via Turkey.

Iraqi President Fuad Masum on Sunday called on the country's leading politicians to start urgent dialogue to defuse tensions linked to the referendum plans.

Masum, a Kurd, holds a largely ceremonial position under the Iraqi federal power-sharing regime, which concentrates executive powers in the hands of the prime minister, a Shi'ite.
Afghanistans branch of the Islamic State terrorist group has expanded its extremist activities to the countrys seven provinces, as opposed to only one province last year, a United Nations report revealed Monday.

While fighting over territorial control between Afghan forces and Taliban insurgents escalated in 2017, rise in attacks by Islamic State of Khorasan Province, or ISK-P fueled insecurity in the country, said a report by U.N. Office for the Humanitarian Affairs.

Growing insecurity in Afghanistan is not only characterized by increased attacks on district centers, but also by a doubling of attacks attributable to ... Islamic State of Khorasan to more than 230 in the first half of the year, the agency noted.

It said until the first half of 2016, ISK was operating in the eastern Nagarhar provinces. U.S. and Afghan military officials, however, repeatedly have claimed that IS remains confined to few southern districts of Nangarhar and parts of the neighboring Kunar province.

They maintain that relentless counterterrorism ground and air operations have killed hundreds of fighters linked to the organization and reduced its territorial control in recent months.

OCHA also reported an escalation of fighting in Afghanistan that displaced more than 50,000 civilians in August, the largest monthly displacement in 2017.

The Taliban-led insurgents attacked or fought over control of at least eight district centers in seven Afghan provinces during the month, it said.

The third week of August has been one of the most active in terms of armed clashes, according to security sources, and the whole month continued a trend of starkly intensified conflict across the country, it added.

From January to end of July, anti-state armed groups had already attacked and taken control of more than a dozen district centers around Afghanistan, noted the U.N. humanitarian agency.

Afghan security forces have since retaken control of only two districts, Qala-e-Zal and Sangin in northern Kunduz and southern Helmand provinces respectively, often after heavy fighting that included the military deploying reinforcements and pounding enemy positions with airstrikes.

The intensification in Afghan fighting is evident from dropping of more 555 bombs by the U.S. military in August, the most in a single month. Most of them focused on Helmand and Nangarhar, a U.S. military spokesman told VOA last week.

The United Nations says Afghan civilian casualties have already spiked to record levels this year, calling on warring sides to ensure protection of civilians.

But hostilities are expected to escalate in the aftermath of President Donald Trumps new strategy unveiled last month to break the stalemate with the Taliban in what has become the longest foreign military engagement in the U.S. history.

The strategy requires a modest increase in American troops and increased airpower for Afghan security forces struggling to halt Taliban battlefield advances.

The recent decision by Donald Trump to surge additional troops to Afghanistan may also result in a more volatile landscape over the coming months, cautioned OCHA.

The humanitarian agency said insecurity is likely to increase and further expand over the remainder of the year, adding no seasonal lull in fighting is anticipated as winter arrives later and is expected to be more mild.

The U.N. agency criticized Trump for not addressing the issue of civilian casualties caused by NATO airstrikes.

It noted the U.S. president announced less political oversight over commanding airstrikes and increasing the leeway of military leaders, which increases the likelihood of airstrikes on anti-government groups that affect civilians.

OCHA cited two airstrikes carried out by international forces on 28 and 30 August that, according to a U.N. probe, killed at least 28 civilians and injured 16, all women and children.
Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says the U.S. is sending another 3,000 troops to Afghanistan, an increase of over 25 percent in the number of American forces there.

Mattis told reporters Monday at the Pentagon that the boost in U.S. troop strength would be "over 3,000," but he declined to name a specific number. "Frankly, I haven't signed the last of the orders right now," he said.

"Most of them are on their way or under orders now," Mattis said, "and I'd prefer not to give any more information that helps the enemy."

Top military brass at the Pentagon have been calling the current situation in Afghanistan a "stalemate," and asking for more troops.

The new deployment will raise the number of U.S. forces in the South Asian country to over 14,000, as the 16th anniversary of war there approaches. American forces moved into Afghanistan to overthrow an administration led by the Taliban and members of the al-Qaida terror network in late 2001, following the attacks ordered by Osama bin Laden against New York and Washington on September 11 of that year.

The decision to send in more troops caps President Donald Trump's change of heart on how to deal with the Afghanistan conflict, America's longest war. Before his election last year, candidate Trump had routinely called for a full U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

In August, however, Trump said he was responding to military commanders' requests for more troops, and establishing what he called a "conditions-based approach" to evaluating troop levels and military operations in Afghanistan.
Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says the U.S. has not yet shot down any North Korean missiles because they have not posed a threat to the United States or its allies.

In remarks to reporters at the Pentagon, Mattis said Monday that if the missiles were perceived as a threat, "that would elicit a different response from us.''

Asked what that response is likely to be, Mattis refused to elaborate.

Earlier this month, North Korea tested what it described as a thermonuclear weapon suitable for mounting on an intercontinental ballistic missile.

At the beginning of this year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced plans to develop a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile that can target the U.S. mainland.

On Monday, almost a dozen U.S., Japanese and South Korean warplanes armed with live weapons flew over the Korean Peninsula in what the U.S. military is describing as a "sequenced bilateral show of force" in response to North Korea's latest missile launch.

The Pentagon said the aircraft practiced their attack capabilities by releasing live weapons at a training range in South Korea. The two nations were joined by four Japanese F-2 fighter jets for additional formation training over waters near Kyushu, Japan.

In announcing the exercise, the U.S. Pacific Command said it "maintains the ability to respond to any threat in the Indo-Asia Pacific theater at a moment's notice." Aircraft involved in the exercise included two U.S. B-1B bombers, four U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning advanced fighters and four South Korean F-15K fighters.

The exercise was conducted in response to North Korea's launch on Friday of an intermediate-range missile over Japan, its second such launch in under a month. The missile traveled 3,700 kilometers before landing in the northern Pacific Ocean and was the North's longest-ever test flight of a ballistic missile.
The opposition Movement for Democratic Change says its leader Morgan Tsvangirai is responding well to routine medical procedure in South Africa and he has laughed off press reports that he is in a critical condition.

In a statement, his spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka, said, In a five minute conversation this morning, President Tsvangirai, who was accompanied by his wife for the routine medical process in South Africa, gave the assurance that he is responding well to treatment and urged Zimbabweans not to panic. He reiterated his message that Zimbabweans must concentrate on registering to vote in the next election.

President Tsvangirai said there was no need for national alarm about his condition, adding that several prophets of doom were keen on creating despondency by pouring cold water on the emerging convergence in the country on which Zimbabweans have pinned their hope.

According to Tamborinyoka, Tsvangirai said like everyone else he was mortal but regretted that naysayers had begun a desperate campaign to feed on his temporary indisposition by spreading alarm and despondency in the nation.

Tamborinyoka said the MDC-T leader assured the nation that he would be home soon to pursue the mammoth campaign to usher in a new dispensation next year.

Some media outlets said Tsvangirai was airlifted to South Africa when he was in a critical condition. He allegedly started vomiting while attending a party event in Harare.

More details to follow 
Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe has arrived in New York amid criticism that he is travelling with a bloated entourage of over 70 people, including his wife and children, who will each be getting a daily allowance of $1,500.

Mr. Mugabe is expected to address the United Nations General Assembly, which kicks off on Tuesday. It will be held under the theme: Focusing on People Striving for Peace and Decent Life for All on Sustainable Planet.

The 93 year-old Zimbabwean leader normally takes the U.N stage to criticize the West for imposing targeted sanctions against him and his inner circle for human rights violations and suspected election rigging.

President Mugabe is also expected to call for the democratization of the United Nations Security Council.

While in New York he is not allowed to travel outside a radius prescribed by the United States government.

Back home, the acting president is Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was recently attacked by First Lady Grace Mugabe for harboring presidential ambitions and allegedly leading a faction of the ruling Zanu PF he using in an attempt to succeed President Mugabe.

Another faction, known as Generation 40, is said to be led by Mrs. Mugabe.

The two have distanced themselves from the factions though President Mugabe has publicly condemned the groups.

President Mugabe is Zanu PFs sole presidential candidate in the next election. He will be 94 when he contests the poll.
Doug Greenwood talks about his health with Anne-Marie Lajoie at Cold Hollow Family Practice in Enosburg Falls, Vt. (Jacob Hannah/For The Washington Post)

Doug Greenwood lifted his shirt to let his doctor probe his belly, scarred from past surgeries, for tender spots. Searing abdominal pain had landed Greenwood in the emergency room a few weeks earlier, and he'd come for a follow-up visit to Cold Hollow Family Practice, a big red barnlike building perched on the edge of town.

After the appointment was over and his blood was drawn, Greenwood stayed for an entirely different exam: of his life. Anne-Marie Lajoie, a nurse care coordinator, began to map out Greenwoods financial resources, responsibilities, transportation options, food resources and social supports on a sheet of paper. A different picture began to emerge of the 58-year-old male patient recovering from diverticulitis: Greenwood had moved back home, without a car or steady work, to care for his mother, who suffered from dementia. He slept in a fishing shanty in the yard, with a baby monitor to keep tabs on his mother.

This more expansive checkup is part of a pioneering effort in this New England state to keep people healthy while simplifying the typical jumble of private and public insurers that pays for health care.

The underlying premise is simple: Reward doctors and hospitals financially when patients are healthy, not just when they come in sick.

It's an idea that has been percolating through the health-care system in recent years, supported by the Affordable Care Act and changes to how Medicare pays for certain kinds of care, such as hip and knee replacements.

But Vermont is setting an ambitious goal of taking its alternative payment model statewide and applying it to 70 percent of insured state residents by 2022 which  if it works  could eventually lead to fundamental changes in how Americans pay for health care.

You make your margin off of keeping people healthier, instead of doing more operations. This drastically changes you, from wanting to do more of a certain kind of surgery to wanting to prevent them, said Stephen Leffler, chief population health and quality officer of the University of Vermont Health Network.

Making lump sum payments, instead of paying for each X-ray or checkup, changes the financial incentives for doctors. For example, spurring the states largest hospital system to invest in housing. Or creating more roles like Lajoies, focused on diagnosing problems with housing, transportation, food and other services that affect peoples well-being.

Critics, however, worry that it will create a powerful tier of middlemen charged with administering health-care payments without sufficient oversight. Those middlemen are Accountable Care Organizations, networks of hospitals and doctors that work to coordinate care and can share in the rewards if providers are able to save health-care costs, but remain on the hook if costs run too high. In Vermont, the goal is to limit the growth in overall annual health care spending to 3.5 percent each year.

It will put a new burden on primary care doctors to keep people healthy  potentially punishing providers financially for patients' deep-rooted habits and behaviors. And the core idea of increasing outreach to high-risk patients, though sensible on its surface, may not control health spending; one study found the approach was unlikely to yield net savings.

I think this kind of model could be very good if its implemented the right way. Theres a big question on whether it will be implemented the right way, said Amy Cooper, executive director of HealthFirst, an association of independent physicians in Vermont.

The current initiative is Vermont's second attempt to revolutionize health care. It was the first state in the country to embrace a government-financed universal health-care system but abandoned the plan in late 2014 because of concerns over costs.



John Graves sits in his apartment in South Burlington, Vt. He lives at an apartment complex that is part of a program to provide housing for former homeless people, as well as help them enroll in health care and other programs. (Jacob Hannah/For The Washington Post)

To hear Al Gobeille, a restaurateur turned Vermont human services secretary, tell it, paying for insurance coverage is just one of the big problems facing the American health-care system. The other, even more complicated one is reducing the underlying cost  and that is what Vermont is trying to tackle.

In 2015, a health insurance plan cost a family $24,000 in premiums, Gobeille said, and by 2025, that is projected to grow to $42,000.

Theres going to be a calamity. No family is going to be able to afford that, Gobeille said. So its important to move to a system that aligns more closely to the growth of our economy.

This year, 30,000 Medicaid patients  like Greenwood  have transitioned into the experimental model through a pilot run by the accountable care organization OneCare Vermont. The system uses software to flag people with complex medical needs and chronic health conditions and to coordinate care and support for those deemed at high risk. Instead of billing for each overnight stay or medical scan, hospitals receive an upfront monthly payment to manage the care for every patient assigned to them, and primary care practices receive payments to help with the outreach work.

Its creating a situation where the physicians and hospital leaders and other clinicians in Vermont feel like they have enough support and structure around them that they can fundamentally pursue changes in their clinical models and their business models, said Andrew Garland, vice president of external affairs and client relations at BlueCross BlueShield of Vermont. It has us all rowing in the same direction.

Garland said BlueCross is in discussions to move a segment of its members  including individuals and small businesses who buy plans through its Affordable Care Act exchange  into the new payment model next year.

Other states are embarking on similar efforts to cut health-care spending, on both sides of the partisan divide.

Arkansas Medicaid program has collaborated with private insurers to shift payments around discrete episodes of care  such as asthma and congestive heart failure. By having Medicaid and Blue Cross on the same page, we got the providers attention, said William Golden, medical director of the medical services division at the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

In 2014, Maryland started giving hospitals an upfront budget for the year, to incentivize providers to keep patients healthy.

The real magic here is when you get the payers  Medicare, Medicaid and the commercial payers, saying the same thing to the delivery system. Vermont is trying to do it one way . . . Arkansas is trying to do it with more coordination between Medicaid and Blue Cross, said Christopher Koller, president of the Milbank Memorial Fund, a foundation focused on improving health. States like Maryland, Vermont are really trying to get at the underlying cost.

As Vermont retools how it pays for health care, the health system itself is already evolving  with an emphasis on services that fall far outside the traditional domain of medicine.

[Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduces universal health care]

Vermonts major hospital system has put up the money to allow community partners to buy and refurbish housing, building off earlier success of buying blocks of nights for temporary stays at a motel run by the Champlain Housing Trust. After three years, costs for hospital stays dropped by $1.6 million, accompanied by a large drop in readmissions.

That led the University of Vermont Medical Center to put up the cash this year to enable the housing trust to buy and convert a roadside motel in Burlington into a landing spot for patients who dont need to be in a hospital, but dont have a suitable place to return.

A hospital-owned family medicine practice in Colchester has set up health-care share day on Thursdays, when families can pick up a box of fresh vegetables prescribed by their family doctor.

Kari Potter, 34, said that the farm share has changed how her family eats. She makes all her own sauces, she said, loading a bag of veggies and two chickens into her car, and the weekly delivery has helped the kids learn to appreciate healthy snacks, even just thinly sliced cucumbers.

Most of these changes seem sensible, and they may even improve patient health. The question will be whether they save money in the long run. In Vermont, there are fears that only the biggest hospital systems that have the wiggle room to assume risk and sustain financial losses will survive.

It is also unclear how patients will react, as the pilot is expanded beyond Medicaid recipients.

During his appointment, Greenwood was firm that he had no real complaints about his life and didnt think he needed any particular support.

Any problems with depression or anxiety? Lajoie asked. Greenwood said no and Lajoie gently tried to prod him for more information  meaning you dont have any sadness feelings?

No, Greenwood said. If I do, they aint bad.

When she asked if his health ever got in the way of visiting friends, he chuckled.

I dont visit with friends, Greenwood replied. Just watch soap operas.

Lajoie made notes to revisit his chewing tobacco habit and find out if he needed additional support in a month. The trick to this job is finding the ways that they can support people, which may not always be obvious  to the care coordinator or to the patient.

Were not here to judge them or anything. Sometimes we dont understand what we can actually help them with, Lajoie said. Its a learning thing, together.
Columnist

When you make plans to watch a Ken Burns documentary, you often have to clear out a lot of DVR space: 11 hours for The Civil War, 14 hours for The Roosevelts and, starting on Sept. 17, 18 hours for The Vietnam War.

But as sprawling as these series can be  The Vietnam War starts in 1858 and continues onward  the more you learn about the process of making them, the more reasonable those running times sound. The Vietnam War took 10 years to come together. Because it was shot in both the United States and in Vietnam, it was a more logistically complex film, one that required co-director Lynn Novick and producer Sarah Botstein to figure out how to work in a different and less free country, and to do their interviews in translation. And because The Vietnam War addresses recent and still contested history, making the series was an unusually demanding process.

Burns, Novick and their colleagues had to confront their own memories and preconceptions about the war, sorting out their personal mythologies from the facts. They had to step back from the mountain of books and movies about the conflict so that they could see more clearly what stories hadnt been told. And then they had to persuade both Americans and Vietnamese soldiers and civilians to share stories about their experiences and reopen debates that remain painful and unresolved 42 years after the last U.S. personnel departed Vietnam.

Burns, who was 11 when American ground troops landed in Vietnam in 1965, grew up feeling divided about the conflict. His father, Robert Burns Jr., taught in the anthropology department at the University of Michigan, where his colleague Marshall Sahlins eventually came up with the idea of the teach-in. The wide-ranging forum on the war, held on the Michigan campus in March 1965, would become a model for similar events around the country. Burnss father attended the teach-in, though Burns himself remembers little about it. Burns was preoccupied with his mothers illness; just a month later, Lyla Burns died after a long struggle with breast cancer.

While reviewing footage of the teach-in that they planned to use in the series, Burns asked researchers to identify a professor who spoke on camera. They discovered that it was Eric Wolf, Robert Burns Jr.s best friend, who along with his wife took care of Burns and his brother, Ric, the night their mother died.

Despite his public embrace of his fathers antiwar convictions, Burns struggled with a desire to see the United States vindicated. When the body counts would come out, I would go, Oh, more of them than of us, Burns remembers. Working on the film just kind of dredged it up, that kind of inner conflict.

Vietnam would become less abstract to Burns as he and the war grew up together.

Born in 1953, Burns received a draft number in the Feb. 2, 1972, lottery. While making The Vietnam War, Burns uncovered letters he had written at the time exploring the possibility of obtaining conscientious-objector status. Though it seemed unlikely that he would succeed because he was not a regular churchgoer, it was the best option in a situation where the other choices were Canada or jail. Today, Burns isnt sure which of those options he would have chosen had the draft not ended almost a year later. A producer on The Vietnam War discovered that Burns had misremembered his own draft number. Despite the anxiety he remembers feeling, Burns was probably safe from the draft by the time he left for college.



A young Ken Burns with his father, Robert Burns Jr., at home in Ann Arbor, Mich. (Courtesy of Ken Burns)

For Novick, born in 1962, the war was a permanent feature of her childhood landscape. Her father was involved in scientific opposition to the war in Vietnam, particularly against the use of toxic herbicides such as Agent Orange. By the time she was old enough to be aware of her parents anxieties about the war and the deliberations of older boys about how to handle the draft, Novick saw the cynicism engendered by the war and by Watergate as normal.

Bookending Burns and Novick were writer Geoffrey C. Ward, born in 1940, whose mother, Dewy Ward, wrote an early report for a civic club that was critical of the war, and producer Botstein, born in 1972 as the war was staggering toward a conclusion. The companion book to the series, which Ward co-authored with Burns, is dedicated to Robert Burns Jr. and Dewy Ward in honor of their early opposition to the war.

Burns and Novick knew from the beginning that making the version of The Vietnam War they envisioned, involving reporting in both the United States and Vietnam and sifting through emerging historical research on the conflict, would take a decade.

They began by listing the sorts of experiences they hoped to chronicle. How did American, North Vietnamese and South Vietnamese soldiers experience the same battles? What was it like to protest the war when that was a marginal position and to see that dissent swell into a mass movement? What did it mean to have your family divided, whether by death, disagreement over which Vietnamese government to support, or desperation to avoid the draft?



Directors Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, left, with their colleagues at work on The Vietnam War. (Florentine Films)

Finding sources in the United States involved both negotiation and persistence. Tim OBrien, who served as an Army sergeant in Vietnam and wrote the seminal short story collection The Things They Carried, told Burns and Novick that he would participate only if they also included a Gold Star family, particularly a Gold Star mother, since such women were dying before their stories could be told.

The Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress pointed Novick to Son of the Cold War, an unpublished memoir by a Gold Star mother and wife of a World War II veteran named Jean-Marie Crocker. Crockers son Denton had wanted so badly to serve in the military that he ran away from home until his parents agreed to sign the paperwork that would allow him to enlist while underage.

After reading the book, Novick and Botstein drove to New York to spend a day with Crocker and learned that her daughter Carol, Dentons younger sister, had joined the antiwar movement in college. Novick says Crocker didnt take the decision to participate in the documentary lightly. When she did agree, it was in the hopes that sharing her experiences would help other Gold Star families. The Crockers became one of the key stories that tie The Vietnam War together.



Denton Crocker Jr., who went by Mogie, in uniform, sitting on porch steps with his siblings Candy and Randy in 1965. (Jean-Marie Crocker and Jean-Marie/Florentine Films)

Other research exposed the lingering pain Americans caused their South Vietnamese allies. Through the journalist Joseph Galloway, who covered the war for United Press International and co-wrote We Were Soldiers Once ... And Young, about the battle of the Ia Drang Valley, Novick met Philip Brady, who had served in the Marines and later worked for Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.). Brady was a veteran of the battle of Binh Gia, a four-day engagement that demonstrated the military prowess of the Viet Cong. Brady in turn pointed the filmmakers to Tran Ngoc Toan, a lieutenant colonel in South Vietnams Marine Corps, to whom Brady was assigned to work as an adviser. Tran was wounded at Binh Gia, and he bitterly recalls that although the Americans took care to evacuate the bodies of four crewmen who died in a helicopter crash, they refused to extend the same consideration to the South Vietnamese dead.

Revealing as that story is, it couldnt stand in for the experiences of all the South and North Vietnamese soldiers and civilians. Burns credits Novick with the insight that The Vietnam War couldnt be only an American story  in order to tell Americas story at all, the filmmakers would need to talk to our former allies and adversaries in Vietnam, a task more complicated than anything Florentine Films, Burnss production company, had attempted in the United States.

President Bill Clinton normalized diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam in 1995. But making a film of this scale, especially one that asked veterans of both the North and South to explore some of the most difficult moments of the conflict, was still a delicate operation.

To navigate the Vietnamese bureaucracy, Burns and Novick turned to Thomas Vallely, a Marine veteran who had returned to Vietnam in 1985 to shoot a campaign ad highlighting his military service when he ran for Congress. The country became a passion that outlasted Vallelys political career. He brought other American veterans back to Vietnam for reunions with their former opponents. In 1989, Vallely founded Harvard Universitys Vietnam Program, and in 1994, he established the Fulbright Economics Teaching Program in Ho Chi Minh City.

That long relationship, Vallely says, means his programs in Vietnam operate with unusual political freedom. In turn, Vallely used his credibility to vouch for Burns and Novick with the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. That support, and the tacit approval of the Ministry of Defense, got Novick and Botstein permission to do interviews in Vietnam and reassured provincial veterans associations and individual interviewees about cooperating with the American filmmakers.



Thomas Vallely and Nguyen Thi Phuong, whose husband, Gen. Lo Khac Tam, appears in the film. (Florentine Films)

On the ground in Vietnam, Novick and Botstein worked closely with two men. Vallelys colleague Ben Wilkinson was living in Ho Chi Minh City and signed on to help translate for Novick and Botstein. He and Vallely, eager for Florentine to work with a fixer who would have credibility with both government officials and veterans, introduced Novick and Botstein to Ho Dang Hoa, who became the films Vietnamese producer. Hos parents fought in the war against the French, and he served as an intelligence officer in the Vietnamese Air Force during Vietnams war with Cambodia between 1975 and 1977 and its war with China in 1979. Later, he won a Fulbright grant that allowed him to get an MBA from Vanderbilt University.

Hos participation in the film would prove critical. Casualty rates among North Vietnamese troops were so high that many soldiers who went south between 1963 and 1966 did not survive. Record-keeping was sketchy, and North Vietnamese units were combined and given new names as the war progressed. Novick and Botstein were more interested in the experiences of ordinary soldiers than those of generals, and they wanted to interview people from all over the country, not merely from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Ho said Novick also gravitated to veterans who had not repeatedly told their stories in Vietnamese media, worried that because of the countrys censorship, well-known veterans may have told a decorated story, but not the true story.

The result was what Wilkinson describes as a kind of detective work. Ho attended informal veterans reunions and followed recommendations and leads in newspaper articles to find people who had fought at battles such as Ap Bac and Ia Drang, a pair of fierce early clashes.

Novick came away from her interviews in Vietnam with a fresh sense of how deadly the war had been and how difficult each day had been for the soldiers who fought in it. One soldier told her a story that didnt make it into the final film about what it was like when he returned home in 1975, having departed the North in 1967 when he was just 19 years old.

His brother was waiting for him at the airport, but he didnt recognize his own brother because hed been away so long. He didnt know what his mother looked like. And when he went home to his village, his mother couldnt believe it because she has basically, after so many years of hearing not one word from him, has essentially decided that he had probably died, Novick explains. Those are just things that are kind of unimaginable for most Americans and certainly for me.

Back in the United States, obtaining the rights to the archival footage that is so critical to the series required the filmmakers to address unresolved feelings about how Vietnam has settled into historical memory.

To get permission from NBC to use the rarely licensed video footage shot by cameraman Vo Suu of a South Vietnamese brigadier general, Nguyen Ngoc Loan, executing National Liberation Front combatant Nguyen Van Lem on a Saigon street, an event documented in Eddie Adamss Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph, the filmmakers had to promise to show the footage exactly as viewers would have seen it on the nightly news in 1968.



South Vietnamese Gen. Nguyen Ngoc Loan, chief of the national police, executes suspected Viet Cong officer Nguyen Van Lem on a Saigon street on Feb. 1, 1968. (Eddie Adams/AP)

Sometimes, the filmmakers had to fill in missing pieces of the historical record to get material. During a speaking engagement at Kent State, Burns saw the universitys museum exhibit on the 1970 National Guard shooting there, including audio and video footage of the incident that had been filmed during the antiwar protests on campus. Co-producer Michael Welt tracked the footage to the archives of CBS but found no information about who had shot it. Ultimately, participants in an online forum identified the videographer: a Kent State journalism student named David Kline, who was doing freelance work for television networks covering the protests that preceded the massacre. Kline had intended to make his own film, but after the trauma he experienced at Kent State, the footage languished until Welt and his colleagues got in touch with Klines brother, Raymond Kline, who handles his brothers affairs and sent the original cans of 16mm footage to Florentine Films via FedEx.

Conducting dozens of interviews in America and Vietnam, assembling 25,000 photographs and securing the rights to 120 pop songs is only the first stage of making a documentary like The Vietnam War.

To calibrate the series once they had rough cuts of the episodes, Burns and Novick staged numerous screenings for people who had been interviewed, historians, representatives of various archives, outside advisers and Florentine staff. In 2016, I was allowed to sit in on several of these screenings and the critique sessions that followed, and to accompany Burns, Novick and Botstein into the editing booth. These events could be charged affairs. Because the material was so sensitive, and she was so concerned how the subjects and their families would react to the end result, Botstein said she suffered regular bouts of insomnia on the nights preceding them. At the screenings I attended, viewers regularly wept all the way through the episodes, which often run almost two hours long.

Sometimes addressing the audiences feedback was as simple as giving them a few more seconds of a completely black screen to allow them time to process an exceptionally disturbing image. Other changes were more extensive: Fredrik Logevall, a history professor at Harvard University who won the Pulitzer Prize for his history of French involvement in Vietnam, Embers of War, pushed Burns and Novick to spend more time on France, arguing that audiences needed to understand how the United States had repeated that countrys mistakes. Some questions, including the use of the word murder to describe war crimes such as the massacre in the hamlet of My Lai, were fraught.

And some arguments that emerged in the screenings werent really about the series at all, but about the war itself. Retired Gen. Merrill McPeak, who flew bombing sorties aimed at the Ho Chi Minh Trail, recalls refereeing heated arguments between Bill Zimmerman, who protested against the war, and Hal Kushner, who spent five years as a prisoner of the North Vietnamese, about the pilots who became prisoners of war after they were shot down while bombing the North. Even a single issue such as the fate of the pilots could expose the divisions of the war in miniature. The bombing campaigns raised questions about the morality of American bombing, the ethical responsibilities of the pilots who carried out those bombings, and the inhumanity of the treatment they endured in captivity.

For all the refining theyve done, Burns and Novick expect that the response to the film will be complex: Thomas Vallely says a friend who saw The Vietnam War described it as the re-education camp for America, not in that viewers would be forced to watch it, but in that it upends so many preconceptions about the war. In preparation for its Sept. 17 premiere, Burns and Novick screened clips of the documentary and conducted discussions about it all over the country.



Capt. Tran Ngoc Hue, 26, leader of the Black Panthers of the South Vietnamese Army, left, and U.S. Marine Capt. Roger V. Wellbrook, wear berets with the groups insignia on June 1, 1968. The Black Panthers were considered to be the toughest single combat force in the area. (Joe Holloway/AP)

Those screenings can also be an illustration of just how much audiences want Burns and Novick to validate their experiences. At one in Washington this year, I found myself sitting next to Tran Ngoc Hue, a South Vietnamese second lieutenant who spent 13 years in prison after his battalion suffered heavy casualties and he was captured by the North Vietnamese at the battle of Tchepone in Laos. During the question-and-answer period, Hue, who was interviewed for the series, came to the microphone to tell Burns and Novick that he was concerned that the film wouldnt give enough credit to the United States for what it had attempted in Vietnam. Its unusual to see filmmakers try to reassure one of their subjects from the stage, but thats exactly what Burns and Novick did. They didnt promise him that the film would argue that the United States should have stayed in Vietnam, which it doesnt, but they did tell him that the series takes seriously Americas broken commitment to South Vietnam, which it does.

There are some divisions that no series, no matter how well made, can heal. But just as Burns and Novick hope will happen in the wider world, conversations begun in those screening sessions have continued beyond them. Philip Gioia, who won a Silver Star in Vietnam, began an email correspondence with Craig McNamara, the son of former defense secretary Robert McNamara, about the events leading up to the Gulf of Tonkin resolution and McNamaras understanding of his fathers decisions. McPeak has had occasional get-togethers with Karl Marlantes, a decorated Marine who wrote the novel Matterhorn, which was inspired by his experiences in Vietnam. Novick has relayed messages between American veterans, like Matt Harrison, who served as a lieutenant colonel in the Army, and Vietnamese veterans who fought in the same battles and are eager to learn about each others experiences. And Novick was surprised  and gratified  by her own fathers reaction.

The other day he said to me, You know Ive been thinking a lot about how I was really wrong to blame the soldiers for what was happening in Vietnam. I feel terrible about that,  she says. And I will just say that my dad does not change his mind about too many things.
The Bender Jewish Community Center in Rockville has hosted world-class artists on its recital series for over 40 years, and another promising season opened Sunday with an appearance by violinist Rachel Barton Pine and pianist Matthew Hagle. Pine has made dozens of CDs, performed with both early-music and heavy metal groups, and writes her own cadenzas for concertos. She is a deft, natural player who gets around the instrument without fuss. She gets around the deep crevasses of music by Beethoven and Brahms without much fuss, either, leaving large areas of emotion and expression unexplored. Its not from a lack of energy, certainly, but there is an airy, generic quality to everything she does.

The program had a unifying theme (three of the four works were by or for black artists) and a strict chronology (oldest to newest), but the result was two of the towering masterpieces of the literature were bookended by distinctly lesser works. Both the Beethoven Kreutzer and the Brahms Op. 108 sonatas are typically heaven-storming concert closers; here they were the middle serving, followed by a Suite of William Grant Still. The opening piece, a sonata by Chevalier de Saint-Georges, had a promising first movement  Mozartean in the best sense  followed by a rondo of truly insipid quality.

The JCCs hall is intimate, but balances are often a problem as the carpeted walls suck up sound. Pines Guarnerius is the only great Cremonese instrument Ive everheard that gets thinner as it goes up higher. She offered a dazzling encore  Bazzinis La Ronde des Lutins, the bowing fireworks impeccable  and her singing line in the slow movement of the Still shimmered. Hagles contributions were always thoughtful if occasionally smudged.
Senior editor, style

This is us, up to our eyeballs in great television, and grateful for the distraction. Host Stephen Colbert stuck to this theme in his jaunty opening musical number at Sunday's exuberant 69th Primetime Emmy Awards show on CBS. "My HBO Go password is SEXBOT 1-2-3," he sang. "The world's a little better on TV."

He was joined in cameo appearances from the likes of Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Tony Hale of "Veep," along with a dancing kick line of chorus girls in "Handmaid's Tale" robes and bonnets. The overall message this Emmy night? Hey, America, there's never been a better time to tune out reality by tuning into  and collapsing into the comfort of  your multiple TV screens. Unload your anxieties by sticking to the couch. It's an embarrassment of riches, luring even the biggest schtars into its fold.

I think there are more movie stars here tonight than there were people who saw movies this summer, Colbert joked at one point, acknowledging a long emerging and now universal truth: TV is on top of the world  and dont they all know it. Even Oprah Winfrey, handing out the nights final award, called television the great survivor. Isnt it, though?

[Stephen Colberts Emmy monologue takes aim at Trump, Ted Cruz and Bill Maher]

Big winners included Hulus The Handmaids Tale, which won for best drama series. Its star Elisabeth Moss won for lead actress. It also won supporting actress (Ann Dowd), writing and directing. Sterling K. Brown won for lead actor (and unfortunately discovered that the producers werent kidding around with that walk-off orchestra cue) for NBCs family drama This Is Us. HBOs Big Little Lies won for limited series.

Nicole Kidman won best actress for Big Little Lies in a category so filled with great actresses and performances that it brought this Emmy night up to Oscar-level anticipation and wattage. (In the male acting category for limited series or movie, Riz Ahmed won for HBOs The Night Of.)



Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepts the award for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series for "Veep. (Phil Mccarten/Invision/AP)

Louis-Dreyfus won again  the sixth consecutive time  for her acting work in HBOs Veep, a record that is less for TV fans to examine and more a job for physicists who study award-show inertia. (Veep also won for best comedy series.) Donald Glover won for lead actor in a comedy for his FX series Atlanta (he also won a directing Emmy).

I didnt know you could applaud and pat yourselves on the back at the same time, Colbert said, after noting that Emmys this year had again improved its diversity record, reflected in this years nominees. A segment midway through the show self-saluted TVs effort to add more stories about everyone, made by and starring everyone. Trust your TV critic (and a chorus of millions on the ol Twitter machine) when he says that TV still has about a million miles to go in this regard, but, yes, hooray for progress.

As if to underscore that point, the very next thing to happen was the comedy writing award, which went to Netflix's "Master of None" co-stars and writers Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe. Waithe is the first black woman to win an Emmy for writing on a comedy series (the first one ever to be nominated, for crying out loud, all the way in 2017), which she accepted with emphatic style and grace. For it is one thing to see diversity in the acting categories, which Emmy audiences are accustomed to. The real progress is finally beginning to happen behind the scenes, where shows are conceived, written, produced and directed.

[Why Lena Waithes historic Emmy win for Master of None is so meaningful]

President Trump, as expected, was the subject of most of the evening's jokes. How could he not be, given his well-known resentment of being overlooked for an Emmy back when he was mostly just a reality-TV star? How could he not be, given Hollywood's practically unanimous distaste for Trump  to the point that the new season of "American Horror Story" has channeled Trump anxiety and fear into a murderous cult of clowns inspired by the national mood? "He's the reason I'm probably up here," said Glover in one of his acceptance speeches  noting that black people have been made "No. 1 on the most-oppressed list."

I suppose I should say at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy, Alec Baldwin said, tauntingly, as he accepted the supporting actor in a comedy Emmy for playing Trump on NBCs Saturday Night Live  a role that will probably follow both men to the grave. (In SNL symmetry, cast member Kate McKinnon won best supporting actress in a comedy; she played Hillary Clinton during the same ratings-busting season, including that memorable denouement to the election, when McKinnons Clinton sat at a piano and sang Leonard Cohens Hallelujah.)



Alec Baldwin accepts the award for his supporting role in a comedy series for Saturday Night Live. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP/Getty Images)

Colbert's "Late Show" struggled to find its voice until Trump's election  now it's on top. His jokes about the president seemed sufficient, perhaps obligatory. It was a nice touch to have former White House press secretary Sean Spicer, who is currently on a self-effacing publicity-rehab tour of talk shows, come out with a podium and insist that Sunday's telecast would be the most watched Emmy Awards show in history, period.

[The Emmys harshest Trump burns, from Colberts song to Lily Tomlin's bigot remark]

Reflectively, perhaps even seriously, Colbert posited that America might have a different president if Emmy voters could only have seen fit to give an award to Trump. After all, he could have been just another of televisions unlikable male protagonists. You liked Walter White, Colbert said. Hes just Walter Much-Whiter.

But its not just Colbert and other late-night hosts whove benefited. (Why else would Emmy voters respond so resolutely to The Handmaids Tale, perhaps finally forgetting one of their habitual favorite dramas, House of Cards.)

Its hard to imagine that not so many years ago, many of the jokes on Emmy night were about the encroaching death of television. Now? Netflix alone raked in 92 Emmy nominations this year, Colbert noted in his opening monologue. And may I remind you five years ago their hottest show was a scratched DVD of Finding Nemo. 

It was the first Emmy night in a long time (maybe ever) in which everything that was nominated seemed more than deserving. Some losses were difficult to process (not a damn thing for FX's "Feud: Bette and Joan"?) but the fact remains, we've probably never had it so good.
A majority of the D.C. Council has signed on to a bill to overhaul the District's Youth Rehabilitation Act, a law that a Washington Post investigation found provided leniency to hundreds of young-adult offenders who went on to rob, rape or murder in recent years in the nation's capital.

The bill, authored by council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), would make those charged with some sex crimes ineligible for leniency under the act and would require new vocational and other programs for young offenders.

It also would eliminate a provision that required D.C. Superior Court judges to decide at sentencing whether defendants 21 or younger should later have their crimes removed from the public record. Instead, offenders would have to serve their full sentences before returning to court to ask that their records be cleared.

Allen, who chairs the councils judiciary committee, said the change would create an incentive for good behavior post-conviction and give judges the benefit of years of observations by jail officials and others before making that decision.

When you ask a judge to use a crystal ball, there are going to be mistakes, Allen said. Were trying to take the crystal ball out of their hands.

The 1985 law was intended to help young offenders avoid the lifelong stigma of a criminal record. But the Post analysis last year revealed that 121 defendants previously sentenced under the Youth Act had been charged with murder from 2010 to 2016  1 in 5 of all suspects charged with that offense during those years.

[Second-chance law puts violent offenders back on D.C. streets]

The Post also found that judges had given roughly 2,300 Youth Act sentences to young offenders for weapons offenses or crimes of violence between 2010 and 2016. On average, the offenders received about 60 percent of the prison time of non-Youth Act offenders who had comparable criminal histories and had committed similar crimes.

Citing the Post series, D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) in December said she wanted an overhaul ready for debate in time for the councils fall legislative session, which begins Tuesday.

She and Allen called on the Districts Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to examine the Youth Act. The CJCC has not released its analysis publicly, but a synopsis circulated by Allens office said it found that recidivism doesnt improve whether or not the young adult was sentenced under the Youth Act. The coordinating council also found instances of repeat convictions within two years to be very rare.

Allens bill would prevent anyone convicted of a first- or second-degree sexual crime, or anyone convicted of sexual assault against a minor, from qualifying for leniency under the Youth Act.

The bill would also lay out criteria by which judges would determine who gets to have a crime expunged under the law, including whether the crime was violent and whether the offender had been previously sentenced under the Youth Act, according to a draft copy of the legislation. The bill would require judges to justify in writing why convicts received benefits of the Youth Act.

The newspaper investigation documented more than 700 cases in which offenders received Youth Act sentences multiple times, including 200 cases in which offenders were given leniency for two or more separate crimes involving weapons or violence.

Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), one of seven council members whom Allen said have signed as co-introducers of the legislation, said he expects the bill to be brought to a vote later this year or early next year, because it would have budget implications.

A provision requiring the mayor to develop a plan for workforce development and vocational training, healthcare, housing, family, and reentry needs has won over some juvenile-justice advocates, many of whom had been openly critical of restricting the Youth Act.

One thing that has come to light . . . since the Washington Post series is that while the YRA existed, it wasnt really being implemented, said Eduardo Ferrer, policy director at the Georgetown Juvenile Justice Initiative. This would require the mayor to develop a plan for targeting this young population and provide them with the services they need to make sure they are not reoffending.

Marc Schindler, executive director of the Justice Policy Institute, called the proposal a promising approach to improving the rehabilitation services available to young adults in the District. But Schindler, who sharply criticized parts of The Posts series, said he would like to see a broader discussion about extending the age for which Youth Act sentences could be given  perhaps up to age 25.

In part of the series, The Post reported on the impact of crimes committed by a young, violent offender named Joshua Mayo. Kristin and Dave Van Goor, residents of Hill East, described how their lives were upended in the aftermath of an armed robbery and car theft later linked to Mayo. Mayo was driving their car days later when he was arrested for the armed robbery of a local schoolteacher, an incident for which he was later convicted.

Kristin Van Goor was also in Allens working group and said she raised some concerns about the accuracy of the data in the CJCC study. For instance, in Mayos case, he pleaded guilty to an armed robbery with an imitation firearm, but court records show that a real gun was recovered.

That continues to be one of my concerns because Im not sure we have a full picture, she said. If theres a pattern of violent behavior, that person should probably be excluded from the Youth Act.

Van Goor says she is satisfied with most of Allens proposed changes. One involves sentencing advocates who would help guide victims and offenders through what can be a frustrating and sometimes confusing process.

The Van Goors, however, have decided that their days in Washington are numbered. They plan to move to the suburbs in the next few years. On one recent morning  when she was leaving her house to attend a Youth Act task force meeting  Van Goor woke up to find that a brick had been thrown through her car window.

It kind of just wears on you, she said.
A sign in St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands greeted Rabbi Michael Feshbach after he emerged from his rented house in the wake of Hurricane Irma. (Michael Feshbach)

Columnist

In his farewell sermon to the congregation at Temple Shalom in Chevy Chase, Md., Rabbi Michael Feshbach joked that he was going to quote "the great British philosopher Monty Python."

The quote? And now for something completely different. Little did Rabbi Feshbach know quite how different his new job would be from his old one.

In late July, he moved with his wife and daughter to the U.S. Virgin Islands to lead the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas, a small but historic synagogue on the Caribbean island. And on Sept. 6, the Feshbachs  Michael, his wife, Julie Novick, their 16-year-old daughter, Talia, and their dog, Luna  huddled in a bedroom closet of their rented house as Hurricane Irma tried to get inside.

There is a Jewish prayer recited on Yom Kippur that ponders the year ahead and asks who will die by water, who will die by fire.

This is a prayer thats chilling to anyone, Rabbi Feshbach said last week by intermittent cellphone from St. Thomas. It makes everyone confront morality and mortality. There are those who take this prayer very literally. I think of it in a different way.

He had time to ponder it. For 20 minutes at the height of the storm, water seeped into their closet refuge. But then it stopped, the winds abated, and the Feshbachs emerged to see the island transformed. Windows blown out. Trees uprooted. Boats and cars tossed about.

And Rabbi Feshbach was hoping that in less than 48 hours, the Hebrew Congregation could have its Friday evening services. A lot was riding on his ability to pull it together.

We are the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest in continuous use under the American flag, he said.

The synagogue was founded in the 1790s by Sephardic Jews whose ancestors had been driven from Spain centuries earlier, victims of the Inquisition. The layer of sand that covers the synagogues tile floor is a reminder of those times, Rabbi Feshbach said, when sand was used to muffle the footsteps of Jews worshiping in secret.

When we have a bar mitzvah here  and its a strange phrase, but we have destination bar mitzvahs  the sand on the floor connects us to the worst moment of Sephardic history, when they were kicked out of Spain, Rabbi Feshbach said.

The Hebrew Congregations Torah scrolls come from synagogues destroyed during the Holocaust, a connection to the worst moment in the history of the Ashkenazi Jews of central and Eastern Europe.

Rabbi Feshbach had double-wrapped the scrolls in plastic sheeting. They weathered the storm undamaged.

A government-imposed curfew forced Rabbi Feshbach to move services forward an hour.

We had eight people and two more watching on FaceTime from Maine, he said. That gave him 10 worshipers, which is supposed to be the minimum for a quorum, but I would have done it anyway.

It was four days before the Feshbachs were able to send word to their two sons  in college on the mainland  that they were safe.

Religion helps us handle issues of life and death like those raised in that Yom Kippur prayer. So what of it, Rabbi?

I come from a progressive religious tradition that takes spirituality and God seriously but not necessarily always in traditional ways, Rabbi Feshbach said. I do not think that things happen for a reason, as sacrilegious as that may sound.

God, Rabbi Feshbach said, doesnt control the weather. God doesnt direct some of us onto a plane doomed to crash and others into a traffic jam that keeps us from boarding that plane.

Thats not a God I can live with, he said.

For Rabbi Feshbach, God is there for how we react to tragedy and how we help each other get through it.

He remembered back to when he started at Marylands Temple Shalom, in 2001, when one of his first sermons was after the 9/11 attacks.

Being a rabbi in Washington was an amazing experience, a great 16 years, he said. One person had a more interesting story than the next. But it is also true here. Everybody has a story. Its an eye-opening learning experience. And now theres a real sense of struggle and of pulling together, determination, survival and a community that survives by caring for each other  on American soil.

On Monday, Rabbi Feshbach and his fellow Americans were looking to the east. Hurricane Maria was on the way.

Twitter: @johnkelly

For previous columns, visit washingtonpost.com/johnkelly.
Peter Goodwin has spent much of his career engineering ways to restore salmon populations in dammed Pacific Northwest rivers or analyzing the downstream effects of water supply management decisions in drought-stressed California.

The closest the University of Idaho professor has come to studying the Chesapeake Bay was on the opposite site of the Delaware, Maryland and Virginia peninsula, exploring how to restore Delaware Bay marshes disrupted by man-made dikes and ditches.

Starting on Monday, however, the nations largest estuary will be his focus. Goodwin will take over the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, home to the preeminent research on the states most significant natural resource. He will replace the current president, Donald Boesch, who has led the center since 1990.

The leadership transition comes as environmentalists hope that the bay has turned a corner in reversing decades of pollution and over-harvesting of crabs and oysters and that a more hands-off approach by regulators doesnt stall progress. Both Boesch and Goodwin acknowledge the job is as much political as it is scientific.

I know Im going to be on a very steep learning curve, Goodwin said. Specifically relative to the Chesapeake Bay, I know actually very little about that, but what I do bring is extensive experience from other systems in the U.S. and around the world.

University System of Maryland officials say they see that unfamiliarity as a strength.

It wasnt my first impression this was the perfect fit  you dont think of Idaho, since its not coastal, as having the same kind of emphasis we have had at UMCES on the bay, said Robert L. Caret, the university systems chancellor. He just had a broad background that encompassed everything we were looking for.

That included a global perspective, leadership skills and scientific curiosity, Caret said.

UMCES, nearly a century old, is actually composed of four research centers around the state, with 100 faculty members and about 85 graduate students.

Its Horn Point Laboratory in Cambridge and Chesapeake Biological Laboratory on Solomons Island are home to the institutions well known research on fisheries, water quality, and the chemistry and biology of estuarine ecosystems. The Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg adds investigations into management of terrestrial wildlife, forests and agriculture, and the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology in Baltimore explores microbiology, molecular biology and biotechnology.

Goodwins background leans toward engineering  specifically, a field known as ecohydraulics. The term, coined in the late 1980s, combines the study of aquatic animals and plants with analysis of the waters theyre swimming and floating in. The work informs operation, construction and even removal of dams and man-made reservoirs.

Goodwin has been a leading voice applying the discipline to debates mostly in the western United States. He served as lead scientist for a group overseeing management of the water supply that comes through the San Joaquin-Sacramento Delta, an estuary in northern California that is tapped to fill pipes and irrigation ditches in homes and farms across the state. Some of his other projects have explored flood prevention, sediment control and fishery management in places such as Idahos Red River, the Columbia River in Oregon and the Tijuana estuary in Southern California.

While those waterways may differ from the Chesapeake ecologically, they share similar challenges  they are a long way from becoming truly restored, and restoration efforts are complicated by politics. Goodwins understanding of such thorny debates means he wont be in altogether unfamiliar terrain when he arrives in Maryland, Boesch said.

Hes very practically minded, Boesch said of his successor. Hes not inexperienced and naive.

Boesch said he plans to stay on the centers faculty into 2018, introducing Goodwin to the major players and policy debates in Annapolis. After that, he plans to write one or more books intended for a general audience about the ecology of the Chesapeake and the Gulf of Mexico.

Boesch will be handing over a position that influences a broad range of state programs and policies. He serves or has served on state committees that oversee management of the bays oyster and crab populations, preparations for climate change, prevention of harmful algal blooms in waterways and responses to invasion by species like snakehead fish. He also held positions on advisory panels outside Maryland, including a federal commission created by the Obama administration to prevent or lessen the damage of oil spills.

Goodwin said he admires the way Boesch has maintained his identity as an impartial scientist while educating and advising politicians. He described himself as embracing a similar philosophy  one in which a scientists role is as an honest broker who doesnt shy away from sharing controversial research but also doesnt tell policymakers what to do with the information.

Scientists are trained not to believe in anything  theyre trained to question things, Goodwin said. Its important to understand where science stops and where the decisions are made.

Goodwin was attracted to UMCES because its independence and organization are unusual among similar research efforts around the country. Many centers are housed within larger universities, or are staffed by researchers spread across multiple departments or institutions. The distinction helps give UMCES a level of authority and credibility in policy debates that it might not otherwise have, Goodwin said.

Youve got an entire independent institution set up to design the science to inform policy and management actions, he said. Having that core focal expertise to build on is pretty unique. Ive not seen that in any of the other large ecosystem restoration projects around the country.

Boesch said hes confident things wont change under Goodwin given the priority the university systems regents gave to finding a successor.

Without hesitation, they said, Lets move forward and get a new president, Boesch said. I think thats a good sign.

If anything, university system officials appear interested in strengthening the institution. Caret said he hopes to see Goodwin broaden the funding sources UMCES taps for its research so its less susceptible to state and federal funding cuts.

Im really coming in here to learn  to understand what the issues are and perhaps give independent, outside perspective, he said.

While Boesch acknowledged Goodwins background might make his appointment seem unorthodox, he said he trusts his successors experience will help him navigate the institution forward.

The times change, and you need fresh perspective and a new generation of leaders, Boesch said.
Former Maryland gubernatorial candidate Douglas F. Gansler in 2014 after losing the Democratic nomination to then-Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown. (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

Former Maryland attorney general Douglas F. Gansler said Monday that he will not join the increasingly crowded field of Democrats seeking to challenge popular incumbent Gov. Larry Hogan (R) in 2018.

At this point, I have no plans to enter the race, Gansler, a partner in a D.C. law firm, told The Washington Post. Ive spent 22 years in government service, and Im enjoying what Im doing in the private sector and working with nonprofits.

Gansler, who unsuccessfully challenged then-Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown for the Democratic nomination in 2014, had said for months that he was considering another gubernatorial run. He campaigned four years ago on the promise of changing the status quo in Annapolis.

Although he was an early favorite in that race, his bid was hurt by scandal  first, by allegations that he ordered state troopers to speed while driving him to routine appointments and then by photos that showed him at a beach week party with recent high school graduates.

He said Monday that there are a number of serious candidates . . . with unique qualifications who have entered the 2018 governors race, and he added that he probably would decide next year, after the February filing deadline, whom he might support.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz announced his candidacy on Monday, becoming the seventh candidate to seek the Democratic nomination. The others are Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, former NAACP president Ben Jealous, state Sen. Richard S. Madaleno Jr. (Montgomery), tech entrepreneur Alec Ross, Baltimore attorney and former University System of Maryland Board of Regents chair James L. Shea, and Krishanti Vignarajah, a onetime policy director for Michelle Obama.

Policy consultant Maya Rockeymoore is weighing a bid as well. The primary is in June.
Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz (D) announced Monday that he is running for governor, bringing a long resume in local government and state politics to a crowded Democratic primary race.

Kamenetz, who declared his candidacy in front of about 100 people outside a county building in Towson, has been an outspoken critic of Gov. Larry Hogan (R), ripping the GOP leader for his opposition to a 2017 bill that would have limited police cooperation with immigration enforcement efforts and Hogan's veto of a measure to require businesses with at least 15 employees to provide paid sick leave.

I am the best Democrat in this race to take on Larry Hogan and take back the state from the likes of Donald Trump and [U.S. Attorney General] Jeff Sessions, he said Monday.

Kamenetz, 59, is finishing his second term as executive, after 16 years on the County Council. The lifelong Baltimore County resident was a member of the Democratic State Central Committee for 12 years and serves as president of the Maryland Association of Counties.

This year, he directed Baltimore County police not to participate in efforts to identify undocumented immigrants among college students, and he signed an order barring county law enforcement from inquiring about immigration status or holding detainees past their release dates on behalf of federal deportation authorities unless the agents have presented a judicial warrant.

Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, former NAACP president Ben Jealous, state Sen. Richard S. Madaleno Jr. (Montgomery), entrepreneur Alec Ross, Baltimore attorney and former University System of Maryland Board of Regents chairJames L. Shea, and Krishanti Vignarajah, a onetime policy director for former first lady Michelle Obama, also are planning to compete in the June 2018 primary.

Policy consultant Maya Rockeymoore is weighing a bid for the Democratic nomination, as well. Former state attorney general Douglas F. Gansler, who also thought about running, said Monday that he has no plans to do so.

Kamenetz won reelection in 2014 with 56 percent of the vote, defeating Republican George Harman. But Hogan won 59 percent of the vote in Baltimore County that year, a key factor in his upset victory over Democratic nominee and then-lieutenant governor Anthony G. Brown.

As county executive, Kamenetz helped launch a $1.3 billion initiative to renovate schools and build new ones. He also helped facilitate a deal to redevelop a shuttered steel mill into a site where large corporations plan to run logistics operations.

He said that as governor, he would improve the states educational system and fight for workers, including by pushing for a $15 minimum wage and expanding job-training programs.

Kamenetz has appeared to be laying the groundwork for a possible gubernatorial bid for more than a year, hosting a late-night party for Maryland Democrats at last summers Democratic National Convention and distributing a daily Kamenetz Chronicle newsletter to the states convention delegates and guests.

His campaign launch got a premature burst of attention Sunday, when The Washington Post reported that a top aide to Kamenetz had sent an email to county government employees, possibly in violation of state ethics rules, urging them to attend Mondays announcement. Several government employees were at the event.

For a county official to be promoting, through his county email, for county employees to come to a campaign event is a violation, said Jennifer Bevan-Dangel, executive director of the good-government group Common Cause Maryland. The presumption from that email would have been: Come as part of your job, which is another big red flag.

Kamenetz did not take questions after Mondays event. His campaign spokesman, Sean Naron, said Sunday that any government employee, even those less familiar with political rules, should abide by them.

At least eight state lawmakers attended Kamenetzs announcement, including Del. Dan K. Morhaim and Sen. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, both Baltimore County Democrats who said they have not decided whom to endorse for governor.

Morhaim said Kamenetz has done a lot of good for Baltimore County, adding that there are a lot of good candidates. Nathan-Pulliam said she wont endorse anyone until next spring but is proud of the work the county executive has done.

Kamenetz had $1.6 million cash on hand for the 2018 election, according to his January campaign finance report. He and other candidates are not required to submit additional reports until 2018.
MARYLAND

Motorcyclist killed

in Rockville crash

A motorcyclist was killed in Montgomery County on Saturday night after a collision with a Toyota Camry, authorities said.

Just after 9 p.m., a man was driving a Harley-Davidson east on Norbeck Road in the Rockville area. At the time, a 17-year-old girl behind the wheel of the Toyota was heading south at a cross street.

The crash occurred at Norbeck Road and Nadine Drive, according to Montgomery County police. The motorcyclist was taken to a hospital, where he died. The driver of the Toyota and her 14-year-old male passenger were not injured.

Police said the details of the crash remain under investigation. They intend to release the motorcyclists name after his family is notified.

Anyone who saw the collision is asked to call investigators at 240-773-6620.

 Dan Morse

The Region

Hurricane Jose may remain in the Atlantic

Hurricane Jose was expected to move north in the Atlantic Ocean at about 9 mph on Monday and Tuesday, possibly coming closer to the Washington region than any other such storm this season.

Jose was 315 miles southeast of Cape Hatteras on Sunday night and was expected to stay offshore, the National Weather Service said.

 Martin Weil

Service cut on eastern end of Orange Line

Metro said it expects that service will be reduced Monday morning on the eastern end of the Orange Line because of unforeseen construction difficulties over the weekend.

The reduction will mostly affect the five stations from Minnesota Avenue to New Carrollton, Metro said. It said that trains will run about every 16 minutes from those stations, rather than every eight.

 Martin Weil


During the Emmy Awards on Sunday night, comedian John Oliver urged the country to make the D.C. public school system trend on Twitter. It worked. (Eric Jamison/Invision/Associated Press)

Columnist

Lets start with a simple lesson: Trending on Twitter is not an accomplishment. It is not an honor. It does not mean success.

I mean, seriously. #NationalCheeseburgerDay and #TrumpsAWhiteSupremacist were also trending in America on Monday morning.

But some adults in the nations capital missed that lesson.

It started when comedian Dave Chappelle took the stage before millions of Emmy viewers Sunday night and admitted that he had missed the rehearsal, so he was reading his script cold. And his D.C. public school education would be the thing to save him.

[How D.C. Public Schools made an appearance at the Emmys]

Please forgive me. Shout-out to D.C. Public Schools. Here we go, he said.

Awesome. And what a great way to give a shout-out to the school system that educated you.

Then the kooky John Oliver, a graduate of the Mark Rutherford School in Bedford, England, and Christs College at the University of Cambridge, ran with the mention.

Like Dave Chappelle, I would like to unexpectedly thank D.C. Public Schools because I think it would be great if it started trending tonight on Twitter for no reason whatsoever. So, if youre tweeting about the Emmys at home, please use the hashtag D.C. Public Schools, Oliver said.

So #DCPublicSchools took off on Twitter.

And then D.C. public school officials reacted as though they were on the stage.

What an unexpected honor! someone tweeted from the school systems official account.

Trending is fun, its silly, and sometimes its embarrassing. But it is not an honor.

This is basic middle-school stuff at home. Tweens are always being told to understand and learn the difference between popular and accomplished, "liked" and actually liked. Likes, retweets and followers are hardly a measure of success. Social media mastery doesn't replace hard work, grit and heart.

The D.C. public schools have amazing alumni to be proud of, including Chappelle. And they range in field and fame from The Washington Post's Colbert I. King to the New York Times's Frank Rich. DCPS graduates bookend my music collection, from Minor Threat's Ian MacKaye to Meshell Ndegeocello. They are leaders in business and government.

And every day, extraordinary teachers change childrens lives. I know some teachers who had huge influences on my children.

But the school system today is also a chaotic, struggling enterprise, where a solid education in a safe environment is often guaranteed only by Zip code, where the lottery system is a frenetic annual game that decides a familys future, where well-to-do parents in the wrong Zip codes will rent a ghost apartment in the right Zip code (because thats still cheaper than private school) and where disparities remain enormous.

[School lottery makes a game out of education in Washington]

"Excellence exists in our schools today, but too many of our children never experience it," D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Antwan Wilson wrote in The Post this month.

It is a school district with high schools that have a 95 percent graduation rate and a 66 percent graduation rate. Want to see how different these schools are?

Three years ago, in one of the good-Zip-code schools, Avery Gagliano's parents received robo-calls and notices of social services intervention when their middle-schooler missed class to perform at international piano competitions and prestigious festivals.

That same year, the same school system  in a different Zip code  didnt contact anyone when Relisha Rudd, who was living in a homeless shelter for families at the time, missed school for 30 days. Relisha is still missing.

[Relisha Rudd is still missing, and some of her friends remember that]

Today, the school system is also struggling with suspensions, something uncovered by a Post investigation published this summer. Schools were touting huge drops in suspension rates, even as their own officials warned principals to stop "hiding" suspensions.

This is inappropriate, unprofessional and fraudulent, Instructional Superintendent David Pinder wrote in an email obtained by The Post.

These stories are also ways that D.C. Public Schools made an appearance on Twitter.

Listen, as the product of public schools, I get that public school systems need all the support they can get. Teachers are still underpaid, unsupported and unappreciated for the phenomenal job they do of taming, sculpting and educating our kids.

Lord knows I cant do the job.

But this Twitter trumpeting is not the victory to embrace. This trending is also pretending.

Pretending there isnt huge work ahead.

Pretending its a healthy and equitable system.

Pretending you know what the heck youre tweeting about, Emmy watchers.

And once the #DCPublicSchools hashtag is bumped off the trending list by a celebrity who farts in public or a cat that eats eggplant (which may have happened an hour ago), were still left with a system with huge flaws and huge disparities.

Twitter: @petulad
Father Rene Laurentin around 1960. He studied apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported around the world. (University of Dayton Marian Library)

In the past few centuries, the Catholic Church has authenticated just over a dozen apparitions, visions of the Virgin Mary that have appeared to French nuns and schoolchildren, Portuguese shepherds and Rwandan youth, and inspired millions of pilgrims to visit shrines and churches scattered in small towns across the world.

Mary appeared 18 times at Lourdes, in southern France, in 1858. She revealed herself to a group of children six times in Fatima, near Portugals western coast, in 1917.

In all, according to the Catholic priest Rene Laurentin, Mary has reportedly appeared more than 2,400 times since the Middle Ages, in visions described by children in the former Yugoslavia and by a man in Marlboro, N.J., who said he saw the mother of Jesus while seated on a plastic bucket in his back yard.

Father Laurentin, a French theologian who died Sept. 10 at 99, was perhaps Catholicisms preeminent scholar of contemporary miracles and Marian apparitions. A student of the French philosophers Jacques Maritain and Henri Bergson, he combined a sense of academic rigor with a religious faith shaped by World War II, when he was captured by Nazi forces in Belgium and imprisoned for five years.

"He possessed the solidity of the theologian, the seriousness of the historian [and] the agility of the journalist," wrote Lourdes rector Andre Cabes in a statement on his death.

Father Laurentin specialized in Mariology, the study of the Virgin Mary, but his columns for Frances Le Figaro newspaper and his scores of books often ranged far afield. He investigated the story of Richard Thomas, a priest in Texas who supposedly multiplied tins of condensed milk to feed the masses. And he studied the claims of Greek Orthodox evangelist Vassula Ryden, whom Father Laurentin called the most authentic mystic living in the world today.

But he was best known for his studies of Lourdes, which he began in the early 1950s after the towns presiding bishop, Pierre-Marie Theas, urged him to take on the project with the admonition Lourdes needs only the truth.

Father Laurentin spent more than a decade combing the archives for documents surrounding 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous, who said she had been instructed by Mary to build a chapel at a cave near the town, and presenting the story of the apparitions in a way that balanced scholarship with literary style.

The effort proved remarkably successful, at least in the eyes of the bishop. Nothing so beautiful or luminous has ever been written, Theas wrote after reading Father Laurentins first volume, The Meaning of Lourdes (1955). Really, after reading you, we know better the solidity and the seriousness of the pilgrimage. You reveal the mystery of Lourdes and its place in the life of the Church.

Father Laurentin went on to publish a seven-volume compendium of documents about the Lourdes sightings, as well as a six-volume Authentic History of the Apparitions.

About that time, he also served as a consultant to the preparatory commission for the Second Vatican Council, which began in 1962, and participated as a scholar, taking notes on the proceedings at a time when the church was facing questions over Marys role in the faith.

Outside of the Trinity  God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit  Mary has become one of Catholicisms most important Biblical figures. Though fully human, she is believed to be without sin. She became a particularly popular figure during the papacy of John Paul II, whose Latin motto  totus tuus, totally yours  referred to Mary, and who was nearly killed in 1981 during an assassination attempt that he said was thwarted by a Marian intervention.

1 of 66 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Notable deaths in 2017 View Photos Remembering those who died in 2017. Caption Remembering those who died in 2017. Katherine Frey Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue.

Yet Father Laurentin, whose expertise was increasingly put to use as reports of apparitions increased in the 1980s and '90s, resisted placing an outsize emphasis on Mary. "Mary is the model of our faith, but she is not divine," he told the New York Times in 2000. "There is no mediation or co-redemption except in Christ. He alone is God."

Rene Laurentin was born in Tours, France, on Oct. 19, 1917, to an architect father.

Father Laurentin  he was ordained in 1946  studied Thomist philosophy at the Catholic University of Paris and philosophy at the Sorbonne. He received a doctorate from each school after his army service, for which he received the War Cross, and later served as a professor of theology at the Catholic University of Paris and the Catholic University of the West in Angers, France.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes announced his death but did not provide additional details.

Father Laurentin was often asked whether he believed in particular apparitions, a contentious question for a priest, let alone a bishop  the first person charged with adjudicating claims of supernatural occurrences.

The church, Father Laurentin wrote in one essay, used four criteria to grant recognition to a supernatural occurrence: whether the message of the apparition is in accordance with Christian teachings; the seer is "sincere, credible, coherent and disinterested"; acts of healing or physical signs of a supernatural presence occur; and long-term religious conversions follow from the incident.

Even when an occurrence has been recognized, Father Laurentin noted, individual Catholics were not obligated to believe. Belief as a whole, he said, was entirely out of his purview  though he seemed more sympathetic than many Catholic priests and scholars in his opinion of Medjugorje, a town in the former Yugoslavia where Mary has allegedly appeared regularly since June 1981.

"If someone asks me if I believe in Medjugorje, I say, 'I am not obliged to answer to this question.' I am an expert; I examine reasons in favor and reasons against," he told a priest in 2003. "Let each one judge for himself and let [the] Church judge for all of us."
Stanislav Petrov, a former lieutenant colonel for the Soviet Air Defence Forces, at his home in 2015. He was credited with correctly recognizing a false alarm while manning an early-warning missile defense system, thereby averting a Soviet retaliatory strike and nuclear war. (Pavel Golovkin/AP)

When alarms began to ring and a control panel flashed in front of Stanislav Petrov, a 44-year-old lieutenant colonel seated in a secret bunker south of Moscow, it appeared that the world was less than 30 minutes from nuclear war.

"The siren howled," he later said, "but I just sat there for a few seconds, staring at the big, back-lit, red screen with the word 'launch' on it." His chair, he said, began to feel like "a hot frying pan."

Col. Petrov, an official with Russias early-warning missile system, was charged with determining whether the United States had opened intercontinental fire on the Soviet Union. Just after midnight on Sept. 26, 1983, all signs seemed to point to yes.

The satellite signal Col. Petrov received in his bunker indicated that a single Minuteman missile had been launched and was headed toward the East. Four more missiles appeared to follow, according to satellite signals, and the protocol was clear: notify Soviet Air Defense headquarters in time for the military's general staff to consult with Soviet leader Yuri Andropov. A retaliatory attack, and nuclear holocaust, would likely ensue.

Yet Col. Petrov, juggling a phone in one hand and an intercom in the other, judged that the red alert was a false alarm. Soviet missiles, armed and ready, remained in their silos. And American missiles, apparently minutes from impact, seemed to vanish into the air.

"I had a funny feeling in my gut," Col. Petrov told The Washington Post in 1999. "I didn't want to make a mistake. I made a decision, and that was it." He celebrated with half a liter of vodka, fell into a sleep that lasted 28 hours and went back to work.

While the 50-50 decision may have averted catastrophe, it ultimately destroyed the career of Col. Petrov, who died May 19 at his home in Fryazino, a center for scientific research near Moscow. He was 77.

His death  much like the defining moment of his life  was largely unreported. It was announced by Karl Schumacher, a friend and political activist who said he heard the news from Col. Petrov's son, Dmitri, and that Col. Petrov had been sick for the past six months with "an internal disease."

The colonel's brush with history came six months after President Ronald Reagan christened the Soviet Union an "evil empire," and just three weeks after Korean Air Lines Flight 007 wandered into Soviet airspace and was shot down, deteriorating U.S.-Soviet relations even further.

[How the Korean Air disaster helped foster the growth of GPS]

When NATO held a military training exercise known as Able Archer 83 that November, Soviet officials interpreted Western troop movements as preparations for a preemptive strike. The country began readying its expansive nuclear arsenal, and the West seemed primed to escalate its own efforts when an intelligence official in the U.S. Air Force, Leonard H. Perroots, chose  like Col. Petrov  not to respond to the apparent provocation. (The incident inspired the recent television series "Deutschland 83.")

Yet while Perroots was lauded at the time and went on to direct the Defense Intelligence Agency, Col. Petrov became a pariah in the Soviet military, a scapegoat for what turned out to be a case of mistaken identity in the early-warning systems software.

1 of 66 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Notable deaths in 2017 View Photos Remembering those who died in 2017. Caption Remembering those who died in 2017. Katherine Frey Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue.

Instead of identifying a group of missiles, the software had spotted the suns reflection off the top of clouds.

Col. Petrov said he was initially skeptical of the launch because only a handful of missiles had been fired  when people start a war, he told The Post, they dont start it with only five missiles  and because Soviet ground-based radar had shown no evidence of an attack.

But a military investigation chastised and eventually reassigned Col. Petrov, in large part for not keeping a detailed log of his actions during the five minutes it took him to decide the alarm was false. (His hands were full, he said.) He had also thwarted a protocol that was designed to take such a weighty decision out of the hands of humans. A computer, not an individual officer, would decide whether missiles were imminent and, thus, whether retaliatory action might be necessary.

In later years, Col. Petrov sometimes said that he was simply in the right place at the right time. Most of his comrades, he said, would probably have confirmed the approaching missiles rather than questioned the alerts from the computer.

In fact, according to Peter Anthony, a Danish filmmaker who directed "The Man Who Saved the World," a 2014 documentary on Col. Petrov, he wasn't supposed to be there in the first place.

Another officer was sick, Anthony said, so Stanislav had to take over.

Stanislav Yevgrafovich Petrov was born on Sept. 7, 1939, in Chernigovka, an air base north of Vladivostok. His mother was a nurse, and his father was an aviation engineer who had flown fighter planes during World War II. He was once shot down by the Japanese, resulting in a severe head injury and an admonition to his aviation-minded son: Never fly.

When his mother became pregnant with a second child, his parents decided they could not support a family of four, and enrolled Col. Petrov in a military academy.

He studied long-distance radar systems and was stationed in the Far East, where he met his wife, Raisa, who was working as a cinema operator at a military base in Kamchatka.

Col. Petrov eventually retired from the military to care for her during her treatment for brain cancer. Reliant almost entirely on a state pension, he was reduced at one point to growing potatoes outside his apartment building to feed his family. For a time, he made soup by boiling water with a leather belt for flavor.

His wife died in 1997. In addition to his son, Col. Petrov is survived by a daughter, Yelena, and two grandchildren.

His story began attracting wide attention only in the late 1990s, after Gen. Yury Votintsev, the retired Soviet missile-defense chief, published a memoir describing Col. Petrovs previously classified role in preventing a nuclear disaster.

Until a Pravda journalist knocked on the door of the familys apartment building, Anthony said, Raisa Petrov had thought her husband was a pilot.

Oh, your husband has saved the world from nuclear war, the reporter said, leading Col. Petrov to slam the door and, at least at first, tell his wife that the reporter had been lying.

He was, Anthony said, afraid that he was being tested.
Colonel (15519/2830) is an adult male domestic shorthair. Cozy (15615/2918) is a 4-year-old male Cockapoo who was surrendered by his owner.

The Prince William County Animal Shelter, 14807 Bristow Rd., Manassas, makes animals available for adoption by residents of Manassas and Manassas Park and Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier and Stafford counties. If the animal is spayed or neutered, adopters may live outside these areas. Additional animals can be seen at pwcshelter.petfinder.com. Viewing and adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. The shelter is closed Mondays and holidays. Adoptions end a half-hour before closing. For information, call 703-792-6465.
Sunday, SEPT. 17

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.

Gin Dance Company The contemporary ballet company performs a benefit concert, the Autumn Remembrance Day for Capital Caring Hospice, in a Civil War-era farmhouse. Noon. Sweet Virginia Bee Farm, 14610 Glenkirk Rd., Nokesville. gindance.org. Free-$30.

Arts Alive The sixth annual festival features performers on multiple stages, local authors, hands-on activities, workshops, demonstrations, food-and-craft vendors,. 1-5 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas. 703-993-7759. hyltoncenter.org. Free.

"Nuncrackers" auditions Rooftop Productions holds auditions for the holiday musical. 1-4 p.m. Center for the Arts, 9419 Battle St., Manassas. 703-330-2787. Free.

Author Joseph D'Arezzo A discussion of his book "Virginia in the Civil War." 1:30 p.m. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-257-8453. Free.

"Honor, Courage and Commitment: Marine Corps Art, 1975-2015" The first exhibit in the Combat Art Gallery features 100 works by 22 artists. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. National Museum of the Marine Corps, 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Triangle. 703-784-6107. Free.

"Tailor-Made: Vintage Fashions From the Museum's Collection Unveiled" Curated by Meaghan Reddick, the exhibit looks at the fashion of the first quarter of the 20th century. Through Sept. 24. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-257-8453. Free.

"Forest Folklore" Mixed-media art and paintings by Lauren Jacobs of Dumfries and wood turning by Greg Wandless of Fairfax. Through Oct. 2. Artists' Undertaking Gallery, 309 Mill St., Occoquan. 703-494-0584. Free.

Monday, SEPT. 18

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.

Museum Kids Monday Children learn about history through hands-on activities and crafts. 10 a.m. Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas. 703-367-7872. $5.

Park West Lions Club bingo Proceeds support local sight, hearing and youth projects. Doors open weekly at 4 p.m. Games begin at 7 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. Paul T. White Jr. Western District Station, 8900 Freedom Center Blvd., Manassas. 703-792-7270. jalicie@pwcgov.org. pwcgov.org/police. Free, registration required.

Prince William Wildflower Society Annual meeting features author Helen Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. Bethel Lutheran Church, 8712 Plantation Lane, Manassas. 703-368-2898. Free.

"A Peculiar Perspective" An exhibit of oil paintings by Manassas resident John Hartt. Through Oct. 31. The Hall at City Hall, 9027 Center St., Manassas. Free.

"Visual Magic: The Art of Four Picture Book Illustrators" An exhibit of works by Janet Stoeke, Carol Schwartz, Susan Roth, and Jennifer O'Connell. Through Oct. 26. The Center for the Arts, 9419 Battle St., Manassas. 703-330-2787. Free.

Tuesday, SEPT. 19

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, SEPT. 20

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.

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, SEPT. 21

Manassas farmers market Thursday 7:30 a.m.-1 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.

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Woodbridge Chapter 1270's annual picnic. 11:30 a.m. VFW Post 1503, 14631 Minnieville Rd., Woodbridge. 703-499-8902. $10.

Conversation with the Chief Prince William County Police Chief Barry Barnard, members of the Crime Prevention Unit and Personnel Bureau answer questions. 7 p.m. Dale City Elementary School, 14450 Brook Dr., Woodbridge. 703-792-6500. Free.

Woodbridge Toastmasters Club An open-house meeting. Learn effective communication and leadership skills. 7:30 p.m. Ebenezer Baptist Church, 13020 Telegraph Rd., Woodbridge. 703-898-7171. woodbridge.toastmastersclubs.org. $68 membership fee.

Friday, SEPT. 22

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.

Summer Concert Series Lloyd Dobler Effect performs pop and rock songs. 8 p.m. Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center, 15201 Potomac Town Pl., Woodbridge. 703-583-1202. stonebridgeptc.com. Free.

Saturday, SEPT. 23

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.

Volunteer and Docent training The museum is seeking new docents. Candidates will be trained in history of the Marines and basic museum studies. 9-11 a.m. National Museum of the Marine Corps, 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Triangle. 703-432-1775. Free.

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.

Occoquan Fall Arts and Crafts Show For the 48th year more than 300 local and national crafters and artisans fill the streets of Occoquan. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Through Sunday. Mill Street, Occoquan. 703-491-2128. occoquanva.gov. Free.

Brentsville Day The inaugural event celebrating the communities history includes farm and living history demonstrations, games, bluegrass music and tours. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Brentsville Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow. 703-365-7895. Free.

Prince William County Farm Tour  Brentsville Stop Site staff members explain and demonstrate farm life during the mid-1800s. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow. 703-365-7895. Free.

"Good Dogs, Bad Cats and Weirdos" An exhibit of often humorous paintings and painted objects by Charla Wilkerson. Artist reception 1-3 p.m. Through Oct. 1. The Loft Gallery, 313 Mill St., Occoquan. 703-490-1117. loftgallery.org. Free.

"One Noble Journey: A Box Marked Freedom" The Creative and Performing Arts Center and Mike Wiley Productions present the one-man show about Henry "Box" Brown, a man who mailed himself in a box to escape slavery. 3 and 7 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas. 703-993-7759. hyltoncenter.org. $15-$25.

 Compiled by Sarah Lane

TO SUBMIT AN EVENT

Email: pwliving@washpost.com

Details: Announcements are accepted on a space-available basis from public and nonprofit organizations only and must be received at least 14 days before the Thursday publication date. Include event name, dates, times, exact address, prices and a publishable contact phone number.
Study looks at traffic on Routes 29 and 15

The Prince William County Transportation Department is conducting a study through Twitter and Facebook to gather input on the options being considered to improve traffic flow and safety on the corridor of Routes 29 and 15.

The various plans would minimize effects on the Buckland Historic area and surrounding historic, cultural, scenic and environmental areas, according to a county news release.

George Phillips, a county transportation planner, said in a statement that the goal is to learn what people think of several options being considered, while also informing them about the potential routes in the corridor. The study is scheduled to end in October.

To see the study, leave a comment or find information, follow @29by15 on Twitter or search 29by15 on Facebook.

Rights commission seeks student leaders

The Prince William County Human Rights Commission is accepting applications for its Student Leadership Council. The deadline to apply is Sept. 29. County sophomores, juniors and seniors in public, private and home schools may apply.

Phyllis Aggrey, executive director of the commission, said in a statement that the students who are selected for the council will learn about local, state and federal government through the lens of human rights enforcement. Members will also be taught about their rights and responsibilities and what to do if they experience or see discrimination as they enter the workforce.

The council meets once a month for five months beginning in November, at the Kelly Leadership Center. During the five sessions, council members pick human rights issues that are of interest to them and work together to create a presentation for a subcommittee of the rights commission.

For information or an application, call 703-792-4680, email pwhrc@pwcgov.org or visit pwcgov.org.

Tours for seniors offer travel, theater, history

Bluebird Tours, a Prince William County Area Agency on Aging program, is planning fall and winter bus tours for residents 55 and older. The tours include:

 Penns Cave and Wildlife Park, Centre Hall, Pa., Oct. 7.

 Crab-picking tour, Eastern Shore, Md., Oct. 9.

 Jonah presented by Sight & Sound Theatres, Lancaster, Pa., Oct. 11.

 Dandy cruise on the Potomac River, Alexandria, Oct. 15.

For information, reservations and a complete list of the fall and winter tours, visit pwcgov.org or call Quality Tours at 703-339-0333.
Sam the gummy worm was having a hard time at the beginning of this school year, but Heidi Rhodess fifth-graders at Mountain View Elementary did their best to help him.

The fictional character was on a fishing trip when his boat capsized. So the students, divided into groups, designed ways to get him to a gummy life preserver by using only four paper clips. It was a team-building lesson that also taught the steps of the scientific process.

Then the students were tasked with getting Sam safely to shore by constructing another boat with materials such as coffee filters, egg cartons, toilet-paper rolls, Styrofoam and balloons.

The activity combined teaching engineering skills with the childrens interest in Hurricane Harvey. But it also used Mountain Views makerspace.

The Haymarket-area school was the first in Prince William County to develop such a tinkering center, and several other elementary schools have followed.

Makerspaces can be any setting where tools and other resources are shared. They started becoming popular additions to schools about seven years ago, said Dale Dougherty, founder and chief executive of Maker Media, which launched Make: magazine, a publication devoted to the maker movement, in 2005.

Although makerspaces have become associated with technology such as 3-D printers and other gadgets, they can be successful with lower-tech features, Dougherty said. They encourage self-directed, experiential and hands-on learning by students.

Its not so much what they learn, but how they learn, that matters, Dougherty said.

Mountain Views makerspace is in its fourth year and contains hot-glue guns, drills, a 3-D printer and a 3-D scanner, among other tools.

It seemed to be a hit with 10-year-old Sydney Jones as she fashioned a boat for Sam the worm during the second week of school.

I like it because we can use materials that we dont have access to at home. And working on a team  thats fun, too, said Sydney, who was partnered with Surat Gill, 11, and Andrew Layman, 9.

Rhodes said the makerspace environment is engaging for students, and helps establish a classroom that is more interactive and less teacher-directed.

Im kind of in the background, and the kids are just doing their own thing, she said.

Principal Adriane Harrison said Mountain View staff members also have noticed a benefit to students who are English-language learners and others in special education programs.

When they come in here and are allowed that open opportunity to think and work through it without always being told what to do, we see a difference in their outlook on education, she said.

Mountain View not only has a makerspace but also a smaller maker setup in its library, and fifth-graders man a daily news broadcast on YouTube. Such programs helped the school win an award for science, technology, engineering and math excellence in January at the national Future of Education Technology Conference in Orlando.

Other Prince William schools with makerspaces include Pattie, Henderson, Chris Yung, Dale City, Piney Branch, Bel Air, Cedar Point and Minnieville elementary schools, county schools spokeswoman Irene Cromer said.

Minnieville opened its makerspace at the beginning of this school year.

About 70 percent of students at Minnieville are English-learners, and about 70 percent are economically disadvantaged. Principal Nathaniel Provencio said last week that staff members work hard just to raise literacy rates.

But educators there also want to give students an opportunity to use resources that nurture creativity.

So after visiting childrens museums in Richmond and in San Diego with his family, Provencio wanted to bring a similar hands-on learning environment to his school.

A room was chosen for the operation, and the principal said Minnieville reached out to parents and the community for help stocking it with everything from straws and coffee stirrers to Legos.

The school hadnt allocated a lot of money for a makerspace, but Provencio said he thought that students could be creative with everyday items. For example, he said, a lot of science can be learned in a simple lesson about erecting the tallest possible tower with toothpicks and Play-Doh.

So were basically a makerspace on a budget, Provencio said.
A massage therapist was arrested after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman while giving her a massage Sunday at a business in Northwest Washington.

Police received a report about 2:45 p.m. that 24-year-old Habtamu Gebreslassie of Silver Spring had allegedly sexually assaulted a client at Massage Envy in the 4900 block of Wisconsin Avenue NW during a massage, court documents said.

A D.C. police spokeswoman said authorities arent aware of other similar cases, but are asking any other possible victims to contact police at 202-727-9099.

In a statement emailed to The Washington Post, Massage Envy LLC, a national chain with more than 1,100 locations, said Gebreslassie was no longer employed by the company.

Massage Envy requires franchisees to complete extensive background screenings and reference checks and strictly enforce our Code of Conduct and Zero Tolerance Policy to ensure guests have a safe and professional experience when they visit a franchised location, the statement said.

Gebreslassie was charged with first-degree sexual abuse, D.C. police said. Charging documents filed in D.C. Superior Court indicate he denied the allegations.
Police tape do not cross. Shallow depth of field image taken of yellow law enforcement line with police car and lights in the background. (iStock)

A 43-year-old woman was killed early Sunday in a head-on vehicle crash in Southeast Washington, according to D.C. police.

The crash occurred shortly before 12:30 a.m. in the 2400 block of Good Hope Road SE. Police identified the victim as Talata Williams of Southeast Washington.

Police said Williams was the passenger in a Honda Accord that was being driven east on Good Hope Road. Police said a westbound Dodge pickup truck crossed into the eastbound lane and struck the Honda.

Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said the drivers of the Honda and the Dodge were taken to a hospital for serious injuries.

No charges have been filed. Police said the crash is under investigation.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, left, and GOP gubernatorial candidate Ed Gillespie at their first debate on July 22, 2017. (Bob Brown/AP)

RICHMOND  Virginias race for governor continues to look like a close contest, as Democrat Ralph Northam has a slight but statistically insignificant edge over Republican Ed Gillespie in one new poll of likely voters and another new poll shows a dead heat.

Northam is the pick for 44 percent of likely voters and Gillespie gets 39 percent in the University of Mary Washington survey released Monday. That five-point difference is within the poll's margin of error of 5.2 percentage points for likely voters.

Libertarian candidate Cliff Hyra gets 3 percent of likely voters in the survey, with 14 percent undecided.

[Democrat has twice the cash of opponent in Va. governors race]

A poll of likely voters from Suffolk University in Boston finds the race evenly split at 42 percent for both Gillespie and Northam, with Hyra drawing 3 percent and 12 percent of likely voters saying they're undecided.

Both candidates have a lot of work to do between now and November, UMW political scientist Stephen J. Farnsworth said in a statement accompanying that schools results.

Other polls ahead of the Nov. 7 election have also shown a tight race, with surveys from Quinnipiac University and Virginia Commonwealth University's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs showing similar results last month.

The Suffolk poll also looked at the question of whether to support Confederate statues in public places, and found that 57 percent of Virginia voters favor preserving them while 32 percent say they should be removed.

Those positions tracked lines of party and race, with 91 percent of Republicans and 67 percent of white respondents saying the statues should be protected, while 61 percent of Democrats and 65 percent of black voters favoring removal. Sixty percent of independents were against removing the statues.

The Mary Washington survey showed that both candidates can count on the party faithful, with 91 percent of likely voters in each party saying they are committed to their nominee. Gillespie does better among likely voters who call themselves independents, with 39 percent to Northams 30 percent.

Northams overall edge comes from Northern Virginia, where the UMW poll shows him with the support of 55 percent of likely voters, compared with 27 percent for Gillespie. The Republican has a wide advantage in the western part of the state, with 48 percent support compared with 38 percent for Northam, but that region has far fewer voters than the Washington suburbs.

Other parts of the state are much closer, perhaps most surprisingly in Northams home region of Hampton Roads, where both candidates get 41 percent of likely voters.

View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor.

Likely voters who are white favor Gillespie, at 51 percent to 37 percent for Northam, and male likely voters also favor Gillespie by a wide margin, with 46 percent to 37 percent for Northam.

Northam gets far more support among African American likely voters, with 67 percent compared to only 10 percent for Gillespie, and among Hispanic likely voters, with 57 percent to 30 percent for Gillespie.

Among women, 50 percent of likely voters support Northam, with 33 percent for Gillespie.

Democrats hold a thin advantage in the other statewide races in the UMW poll. For lieutenant governor, Democrat Justin Fairfax is favored by 45 percent of likely voters compared with 40 percent for Republican Sen. Jill Holtzman Vogel (Fauquier). Incumbent Attorney General Mark Herring (D) gets support from 47 percent of likely voters compared with 40 percent for Republican John Adams.

The UMW survey was conducted from Sept. 5-12 with telephone interviews of a representative sample of 1,000 Virginians over age 18. Of those, 562 identified themselves as likely voters.

The Suffolk University poll was conducted Sept. 13-17 among 500 likely Virginia voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points.

That survey looks at a number of issues in addition to the Confederate monuments, finding that 52 percent of Virginians surveyed support offshore drilling for oil and gas, with 35 percent opposed. Fifty percent also favor raising the minimum wage to $15 from $7.25 an hour, with 44 percent against the raise.

It found that 44 percent of likely voters said the state is headed in the wrong direction, while 42 percent said it was on a good track and 14 percent were undecided.
Former congressman Tom Perriello joined a handful of college students on Monday as they pressed Republican gubernatorial candidate Ed Gillespie, a former Washington lobbyist and strategist, to disclose the names of clients he has represented over the past five years.

Its the kind of campaign event that would have been expected of Perriello had he won the June 13 Democratic primary for governor. He lost to Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, but there he was anyway, stumping for Northam.

Whenever I can be useful, Im there, Perriello said after his appearance at Virginia Commonwealth University. This is an all-hands-on-deck moment. I was very clear with the Northam campaign and party that if I can be helpful, put me in.

Perriello is leading Win Virginia, a political action committee that is trying to help Democrats build their numbers in the GOP-controlled House of Delegates in November. The PAC is especially focused on 17 Republican seats in districts where Hillary Clinton beat Donald Trump in last years presidential election.

Perriello, who estimated he covered 800 miles last weekend promoting Northam and Democratic House candidates, is on the campaign trail for Northam in a way thats unusual even for good sports. The primary loser is expected to promptly concede, endorse the winner and pretty much fade away.



Former congressman Tom Perriello lost the Democratic primary for governor in June and has been stumping for the man who beat him, Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam. He is running a group dedicated to helping Northam and Democratic state House candidates. (Steve Helber/AP)

That hasnt happened on the Republican side either. After narrowly losing the GOP primary to Gillespie, Corey A. Stewart has stayed visible  but not in a way thats likely to help Gillespie, who polls show is locked in a close contest with the Democrat.

[New poll: Northam has slight edge but Va. governors race looks like a squeaker]

Chairman of President Trump's Virginia campaign until he went too rogue even for that unconventional outfit, Stewart tormented the man he derided as "Enron Ed" during the primary for his establishment ties. Stewart has barely turned down the rhetoric since. He has continued to call Gillespie weak on illegal immigrants and even blasted his choice of campaign-commercial attire, advising him to lose the "dorky Mister Rogers" sweater.

[Stewart to Gillespie: Nobody cares that your dad owned a grocery store.]

Stewart also immediately jumped into another race, to take on Sen. Tim Kaine (D) in 2018, which has kept him in the news.

Although polls show Republicans are lining up behind Gillespie, Stewart recently told the Daily Beast that Gillespie remains weak with the party's conservative base  something he says he could help Gillespie shore up if only the nominee would ask.

I dont want to overplay my significance, but it would help if I got out there and encouraged people at rallies to vote, Stewart said, according to the website. Ed has not asked for my help. If asked, I would give it.

View Graphic The latest stories and details on the 2017 Virginia general election and race for governor.

Gillespies campaign and Stewart did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

But Gillespie's campaign has noted in the past that while he has worked as a political consultant for various corporations, he has not worked as a lobbyist for 10 years. In April, Gillespie voluntarily disclosed his consulting clients for 2016. When he unsuccessfully challenged Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) in 2014, Gillespie disclosed clients he represented the previous year.

With Stewart still playing up rifts within the GOP, Perriello has been trying to smooth over those exposed by the Democratic primary. In a submission to the Blue Virginia blog, Perriello took on the biggest issue that divided them: a pair of proposed natural gas pipelines that Perriello opposes and Northam supports if they can be built safely.

The headline there: Why I oppose the pipelines and strongly support Ralph Northam.

Virginias race for governor continues to look like a close contest, as Northam has a slight but statistically insignificant edge over Gillespie in one new poll of likely voters and another new poll shows a dead heat.

Northam is the pick for 44 percent of likely voters and Gillespie gets 39 percent in the University of Mary Washington survey released Monday. That five-point difference is within the polls margin of error of 5.2 percent for likely voters.

Libertarian candidate Cliff Hyra gets 3 percent of likely voters in the survey, with 14 percent undecided.

A poll of likely voters from Suffolk University in Boston finds the race evenly split at 42 percent for both Gillespie and Northam, with Hyra drawing 3 percent and 12 percent of likely voters saying they're undecided.

Both candidates have a lot of work to do between now and November, UMW political scientist Stephen J. Farnsworth said in a statement accompanying that schools results.

The UMW survey was conducted from Sept. 5-12 with telephone interviews of a representative sample of 1,000 Virginians over age 18. Of those, 562 identified themselves as likely voters.

The Suffolk University poll was conducted Sept. 13-17 among 500 likely Virginia voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points.

Other polls ahead of the Nov. 7 election have also shown a tight race, with surveys from Quinnipiac University and Virginia Commonwealth Universitys L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs showing similar results last month.

Gregory S. Schneider contributed to this report.
Georgia

Student is fatally shot at Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech police fatally shot the president of the Pride Alliance student group Saturday night in view of dorm residents.

Police encountered Scout Schultz, a 21-year-old computer engineering student who identified as neither male nor female, in a parking lot outside the dorms after someone called 911 to report a person with a knife and a gun, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Schultz did not appear to be holding a gun in video recorded from a window above the parking lot, as the campus was put on lockdown shortly before midnight. But the student was armed with a knife, the bureau wrote in a statement  and video shows officers repeatedly telling Schultz to drop the weapon as the student advances.

Come on, man, lets drop the knife, an officer with his gun drawn says in the graphic video. But Schultz walks toward him.

"Shoot me!" is heard on the video.

Schultz was taken to an Atlanta hospital early Sunday and died there, according to the bureau, which has released few details as it investigates.

 Avi Selk

Police say race may factor in killings of men in La.: The killings of two black men in Baton Rouge last week probably were racially motivated, police said Sunday, and a suspect  a 23-year-old white man  is in custody. In both shootings, the gunman fired from his car, then walked up to the victims as they were lying on the ground and fired again multiple times. The suspect, Kenneth Gleason, was being held on drug charges and was given a $3,500 bond Sunday evening, a district attorney said. Authorities did not have enough evidence to arrest him on charges related to the killings, but the investigation is ongoing, Baton Rouge Sgt. L'Jean McKneely said. The shootings happened about five miles from each other. The first occurred Tuesday night when Bruce Cofield, 59, who was homeless, was fatally shot. The second happened Thursday night when Donald Smart, 49, was shot and killed while walking to his job as a dishwasher, McKneely said.

 Associated Press
Environmental and outdoor recreation groups threatened Monday to sue if President Trump adopts Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke's leaked proposal to alter nearly a dozen national monuments, while grazing, fishing and other groups welcomed the recommendations.

Zinkes plan to reduce the size of at least four federally protected areas in the West, while altering management practices at another half-dozen, was obtained and published by The Washington Post on Sunday night. The White House is still reviewing the memorandum, which Zinke submitted in late August after conducting a four-month review of how presidents of both parties have applied the 1906 Antiquities Act since 1996.

The secretary urged Trump to shrink four large monuments on federal land  Utah's Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Nevada's Gold Butte, and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou  as well as possibly two Pacific Ocean marine monuments, the Pacific Remote Islands and Rose Atoll. He proposed amending the proclamations for 10 monuments, largely to allow for commercial activities restricted in these areas, such as logging, grazing and mining.

Zinke endorsed allowing commercial fishing operators in three marine monuments  the two in the central Pacific Ocean, and one, Northeast Canyons and Seamounts National Marine Monument, in the Atlantic.

Eric Reid, general manager of Seafreeze Shoreside in Narragansett, R.I., said in a statement that the recommendations make us hopeful that we can recover the areas we have fished sustainably for decades. We are grateful that the voices of fishermen and shore side businesses have finally been heard.





But Mystic Aquarium senior research scientist Peter J. Auster, whose institution pushed for heightened protections for an area 130 miles off the southeast coast of Cape Cod, noted that federal catch data shows that landings of mackerel and butterfish  two of the main species targeted by local fisherman near the monument  have risen this year compared with 2016, when the monument was established.

Auster said that to allow trawlers, pots and pot gear in the monument, which spans 4,913 square miles, will have significant effects on conservation of marine wildlife in the monument.

Former Interior secretary Sally Jewell, who oversaw several of the monument designations Zinke is proposing to alter, said in an interview Monday that "the protections that are written into the proclamations are in many cases what he's trying to undo, in his recommendations to President Trump.

Its a monument in name only if all the activities that are identified by Secretary Zinke are allowed to occur, she added.

[Zinkes monuments plan would transform 10 protected areas across the globe]

Grazing advocates also welcomed the idea of providing ranchers with more access on five different monuments, including not only Bears Ears, Grand Staircase-Escalante and Gold Butte, but also the New Mexico monuments Rio Grande Del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks.

Ethan Lane, who directs the Public Lands Council at the National Cattlemens Beef Association, said in an email: It sounds like the voices of western communities are finally being heard and the promise to preserve grazing inside monuments might finally be kept by the federal government. This action would be a win for any western community that depends on ranching to stay afloat.



The sun sets over Valley of the Gods in Bears Ears National Monument. (Katherine Frey/The Washington Post)

Utah politicians, who have lobbied Trump since he was elected to revisit several Antiquities Act designations, praised his administrations push to scale back these areas. Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert (R) said Thursday that after having talked with Zinke about Grand Staircase-Escalante, which President Bill Clinton established in 1996, I think theres the possibility of carving it up into smaller monuments, you know, two or three that actually protects the area that needs protection.

Utah Republican Sen. Orrin G. Hatchs spokesman Matt Whitlock said his boss is grateful for Secretary Zinkes thorough, fair review that has given Utahns on all sides of the issue a voice in the protection of Utah lands.

[Mormons are among the few who want less federally protected land]

But a broad array of monument supporters, including environmental and outdoor recreation activists, pledged to fight any changes to existing protections in court.

Trump, Zinke and Herbert are going to come out on the wrong side of history, said Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance Legal Director Steve Bloch.

University of Colorado law professor Mark Squillace, an expert in the Antiquities Act, said in an email that Zinkes proposal raises a host of legal issues given that no president has considered making so many changes to previous designations.

Decisions to protect certain objects (and not others) involve judgment calls that courts have shown an inclination to respect, he said. The significant legal issues aside, if we allow presidents to second-guess the judgments of their predecessor there would no end to the mischief that would create.

Although Zinke has proposed amending all 10 monuments proclamations to shift the way they are managed, the majority of the management plans for these monuments have not been finalized because they take between five and six years to complete.

Randi Spivak, public lands program director for the advocacy group Center for Biological Diversity, said any proclamation change would be subject to challenge and any proposed management plan changes will need to formally go through the same legal and administrative processes again, subject to the same administrative appeal and litigation requirements.

This process will be very legally vulnerable because it will have to deal with all the scientific, environmental and social conclusions produced during the first round of management plan creation, she said. This would be a massive hurdle for the administration.


A child wades in the Penobscot Rivers East Branch within the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine. (Robert F. Bukaty/AP)

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has recommended that President Trump modify 10 national monuments created by his immediate predecessors, including shrinking the boundaries of at least four western sites, according to a copy of the report obtained by The Washington Post.

The memorandum, which the White House has refused to release since Zinke submitted it late last month, does not specify exact reductions for the four protected areas Zinke would have Trump narrow  Utah's Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Nevada's Gold Butte, and Oregon's Cascade-Siskiyou  or the two marine national monuments  the Pacific Remote Islands and Rose Atoll  for which he raised the same prospect. The two Utah sites encompass a total of more than 3.2 million acres, part of the reason they have aroused such intense emotions since their designation.

The secretarys set of recommendations also would change the way all 10 targeted monuments are managed. It emphasizes the need to adjust the proclamations to address concerns of local officials or affected industries, saying the administration should permit traditional uses now restricted within the monuments boundaries, such as grazing, logging, coal mining and commercial fishing.

If enacted, the changes could test the legal boundaries of what powers a president holds under the 1906 Antiquities Act. Although Congress can alter national monuments easily through legislation, presidents have reduced their boundaries only on rare occasions.



Petroglyphs at Gold Butte National Monument in Nevada. (Christian K. Lee/AP)

The memorandum, labeled "Final Report Summarizing Findings of the Review of Designations Under the Antiquities Act," shows Zinke concluded after a nearly four-month review that both Republican and Democratic presidents went too far in recent decades in limiting commercial activities in protected areas. The act, signed into law by President Theodore Roosevelt, gives the president wide latitude to protect public lands and waters that face an imminent threat.

It appears that certain monuments were designated to prevent economic activity such as grazing, mining and timber production rather than to protect specific objects, the report reads, adding that while grazing is rarely banned outright, subsequent management decisions can have the indirect result of hindering livestock-grazing uses.





To correct this overreach, Zinke says, Trump should use his authority under the Antiquities Act to change each of the 10 sites' proclamations to permit activities that are now restricted. These include "active timber management" in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters; a broader set of activities in New Mexico's Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte; and commercial fishing in the two Pacific Ocean marine monuments, as well as in one off the New England coast, Northeast Canyons and Seamounts.

[Meet the nations most endangered national monuments]

In most of his recommendations, Zinke suggests Trump amend the existing proclamations to protect objects and prioritize public access; infrastructure upgrades, repair and maintenance; traditional use; tribal cultural use; and hunting and fishing rights.

The White House is reviewing the recommendations and has not reached a final decision on them. At several points, the memo bears the marker Draft Deliberative  Not for Distribution.

In an email Sunday, White House spokeswoman Kelly Love said she would not discuss in detail a review that is still underway: The Trump Administration does not comment on leaked documents, especially internal drafts which are still under review by the President and relevant agencies.

The majority of the monuments listed in the report were established by either President Bill Clinton or President Barack Obama, but the two Pacific Ocean sites were created by President George W. Bush and later expanded by Obama.

No other administration has gone this far, Kristen Brengel, vice president of government affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association, said of the Trump White House in an interview. This law was intended to protect places from development, not promote damaging natural and cultural resources.

The secretary urges Trump to request congressional authority to enable tribal co-management of designated cultural resources in three ancestral sites: Bears Ears, Rio Grande del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks.

At the same time, he proposes not only shrinking the boundaries of Bears Ears but requesting that Congress make less-restrictive designations within it, such as national recreation areas or national conservation areas. The monument, which contains tens of thousands of cultural artifacts, has become the most prominent symbol of the issues surrounding the Antiquities Act.



One of the towering pinnacles in Valley of the Gods within the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah. (Katherine Frey/The Washington Post)

Yet Zinke also suggests the administration explore the possibility of establishing three new national monuments that would recognize either African American or Native American history. These include Kentuckys Camp Nelson, an 1863 Union Army outpost where African American regiments trained; the home of murdered civil rights hero Medgar Evers in Jackson, Miss.; and the 130,000-acre Badger-Two Medicine area in Zinkes home state of Montana, which is consider sacred by the Blackfeet Nation.

This process should include clear criteria for designations and methodology for meeting conservation and protection goals, he writes of these potential designations, adding that this course should be fully transparent to allow for public input.

Trump signed an executive order in April directing Zinke to examine any national monument created since Jan. 1, 1996, and spanning at least 100,000 acres. The secretary ultimately included 27 of them, including Katahdin, which is roughly 87,500 acres.

Before submitting Zinke's report to the White House in August, Interior had already announced that six of the monuments under scrutiny would remain unchanged. Zinke's memorandum is silent on the fate of the remaining 11 monuments, including Papahanaumokuakea, which Bush created but Obama expanded to more than 582,578 square miles of land and sea in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

[In southeast Utah, a sacred tribal site is being looted]

Conservative Republicans, including House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Rep. Rob Bishop of Utah, have long been critical of how presidents have used the Antiquities Act. Speaking to reporters last month, Bishop said that the law was not intended to appoint the president as a dictator and that federal officials needed to be more respectful of what state lawmakers and local residents thought of protecting areas near their communities.

Ethan Lane, who directs the Public Lands Council at the National Cattlemens Beef Association, said in an interview that what administration officials are doing is going back in to look at these designations and ensuring that groups that are significantly impacted are heard. . . . Theyre going back and fixing what is wrong with a pretty hurried and nontransparent process.

Grand Staircase-Escalante, which Clinton designated in 1996, later led to a land exchange between Utah and the federal government that was ratified by Congress and incorporated a $14 million buyout of 17 leases held by Andalex Resources Inc. within the monuments boundaries.

Zinkes report notes that the site contains an estimated several billion tons of coal and large oil deposits and that the limits of motorized vehicle use there has created conflict with Kane and Garfield Counties transportation network.

In the case of the Pacific Remote Islands, the memo notes that before Bush protected it in 2009 there were Hawaiian and American Samoan longliners and purse seiners vessels operating.



Pink corals on the Palmyra Atoll in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument. (Jim Maragos/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/AP)

National Geographic explorer in residence Enric Sala, who has conducted scientific surveys in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, said in an email that any effort to restart commercial fishing within its boundaries would not only harm the ecosystem the monument is supposed to protect, but also its ability to help replenish tuna fisheries around it.

While concerns about ranching are raised more frequently than any other objection in the report, Zinke also writes that border security is a concern resulting from the designation of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks near New Mexicos border with Mexico. Both the Homeland Security Department and the Pentagon should assess risks associated with the monument, he suggests, given the proximity of nearby military installations.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a letter in January 2014, before the site was designated, saying it would not impede security and would "significantly enhance the flexibility" of agents patrolling a five-mile strip along the border that was then an official wilderness study area.

Changing the way these monuments are managed, as well as their size, is likely to spur a range of legal challenges. Both Trumps executive order and the report highlight the importance of protecting sites though the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected.

Throughout the review, the Secretary has seen examples of objects not clearly defined in the proclamation, the report reads. Examples of such objects are geographic areas, viewsheds, and ecosystems.

And in Katahdin, which is managed by the National Park Service, the secretary proposes amending its proclamation to promote a healthy forest through active timber management.

Lucas St. Clair, whose family's foundation donated the land to the federal government last year to create the monument, said he did not understand why the administration would be seeking changes since the Park Service already has the right to cut trees to maintain the property and protect visitors.

We need to look through the lens of protecting the conservation and recreational values of the monument. Im not sure if timber management does that, he said.
As time ran out for the woolly rhino, strange things happened. Before going extinct, a new study suggests, some of the beasts faced an unusually high risk of growing bizarre ribs in their neck. Those misplaced ribs might have signaled the animals impending demise.

Scientists examined neck bones from 32 woolly rhinos and found indented spots on five of them where ribs had once attached to the seventh cervical vertebra, the lowermost bone in the neck. That means there were strange cervical ribs on about 16 percent of the creatures. By comparison, 56 specimens of the same vertebra from modern rhino skeletons had no such spots, says Frietson Galis, an evolutionary biologist at the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands. Galis and paleontologist Alexandra van der Geer, also at Naturalis, reported the findings Aug. 29 in the journal PeerJ.

Found in what is now the North Sea and in adjacent Dutch deltas and coastal areas, the bones date from about 35,000 to 115,000 years ago, a time of changing climate and ecosystems. The woolly rhino probably disappeared from Western Europe within the past 35,000 years or so, although populations to the east survived longer.

Extra bits of rib sticking off a neck bone might not have been particularly harmful to the rhinos. But the anomalies may signal that more-disruptive mutations were cropping up in a shrinking, inbreeding population as it slid toward extinction, Galis says. The basics of neck vertebrae are set early in a mammal embryos development, along with other crucial matters such as head-tail and front-back orientations, and mutations that affect neck bones may be too disruptive to many embryos for them to survive to birth. Cervical ribs have been associated with childhood cancer and congenital abnormalities in animals that do survive beyond birth.

Although the researchers didn't match any ribs with the oddly shaped vertebral specimens, the indented spots on the neck bones look like those on vertebrae that support the rib cage. In addition, Galis and other colleagues found similar evidence of high incidence of cervical ribs in woolly mammoths from around the same place in 2014.

Still, a strong test of the proposed link between neck ribs and woolly rhinos impending doom may need more fossils. For instance, in the current study, there are no comparisons [of neck vertebrae] through time, says Johannes Muller, a paleozoologist at Humboldt University of Berlin and the Museum of Natural History, also in Berlin. It would be helpful to know how often the ribs show up in woolly rhinos from a time when their populations were flourishing, he says.

 Science News
As I listened in on the phone  I was in Boston while my siblings were sitting in a rehabilitation facility outside New York  I could feel my anger rising. A week after having a partial hip replacement, our 90-year-old mother with dementia was being talked about as if she were slowing down her own rehabilitation for some self-interested purpose.

This is wrong, I thought. My mother is scared and hurt, and she needs to be embraced by the health-care system, not run through it.

Things happen to people who live a long time  most of them not good. The second-youngest of six children of Irish immigrants and a spitfire her entire life, my mother had been in declining health.

First came the dementia, a terrible disease that slowly guts a persons personality and awareness. With it came the inevitable slowdown in activity while sharing a tiny apartment with my brother, whose caregiving had kept her out of a nursing home. She spent much of her time in the recliner, staring at the television, sleeping and making lots of calls to my brother while he was at work.

And then one day she fell. Between a part-time home health aide and my brother, the moments when my mother was left alone had become increasingly rare. But during one of those moments, she tried to get out of her chair and tripped.

She fractured her left hip, the dreaded injury that  along with damaged knees  hits the elderly hard and eats up so many Medicare dollars, often through partial or full joint replacements.

When I got the call from my brother that he was at the emergency room with our mother, her future came clearly into focus: That day would be her last sitting in their small apartment, having some degree of independence. She was about to become dependent on a fragmented health-care system. She would traverse the modern elderly persons trail of tears from emergency room to hospital bed to operating room to rehabilitation hospital to nursing home.

It seemed unavoidable that my mother, the fireball of my youth and adulthood, would become a passive passenger on the unpleasant train to Long-Term-Careville.

Entering the assembly line

Ive worked in, studied and taught health care for the past 30 years, so I knew more than the rest of my family did about the maze of complexity, uncertainty and risk that my mother was entering.

Older folks, already debilitated by a significant injury, often develop a steady drip of secondary health problems in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, such as infections and pressure sores. And the clinical interventions meant to prevent, slow or stop those morbidities often end up compromising the patients immune systems and set them up for something even worse down the road, such as pneumonia.

Two days after my mother was admitted to the hospital, an orthopedic surgeon wed met only an hour before performed a partial hip replacement, inserting a prosthetic femoral head into my mothers hip socket and anchoring the stem of that head in her femur. It was a quick and fairly straightforward procedure.

She has pretty good bone structure for her age, the surgeon told us after the surgery. The operation was a success.

Even as someone who knows health care quite well, I felt like an uneducated fool about what came next. What I found out when my mother got back to her hospital room is that with joint replacements now, you are on a quick-moving assembly line. That line whips you out of the hospital and into a rehab facility as fast as is humanly possible, and then out of the rehab facility and either back home or on to a nursing home almost as quickly.

There was also a financial incentive on the hospitals part for this speed.

My mother had been assigned to a pilot program, created by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as part of a bundled payment initiative designed to control costs, ostensibly without hurting care.

This pilot program placed hospitals at financial risk if the actual costs of joint replacement surgery and post-surgical treatment exceeded the target amount specified by CMS. Spending more than the CMS target for a hip replacement, including rehabilitation, could force the hospital to reimburse Medicare for a portion of the total costs, whereas coming in under the target might net the hospital a financial bonus.

No one told us before the surgery, or for several days afterward, that my mother would be included in this program. I found out when the hospital care manager mentioned it on the day my mother was scheduled to move to the rehab facility. If I had not peppered her with highly specific questions about rehabilitation, she might have never mentioned the bundled payment program. My brother had spoken with her several times before, but my mothers inclusion in the program had never come up.

Learning about bundles

Had bundle-related pressures affected my mothers post-surgery treatment and what we felt was a too-hurried effort by the hospital to get her up and moving  and into a rehab facility?

The day before the surgery, we had been told that she would be discharged no more than a couple of days later to a rehabilitation facility. The morning after her surgery, my mother was forced out of bed to sit in a chair and to try to stand. She yelled at staff members the whole time, her dementia on full display.

It sounds as though it makes sense clinically: Get them up quickly, and get them moving. But the speed with which things started happening struck my siblings and me as less than ideal.

Given the short discharge window, my brother and I had spent the morning of the surgery doing a lightning tour of a local rehab hospital that wed selected after my own rapid-fire examination of Medicare star ratings, Nursing Home Compare data and state health inspection reports.

The hospital had recommended one, but my research suggested that a different one seemed to offer the best quality. So we chose that one. But I wondered: Had my mothers inclusion in the bundled payment program affected the hospitals suggestion?

More specifically, did the hospital have tacit understandings with specific rehab facilities about keeping the costs of care within a certain range? Was the hospitals recommendation reflective of good collaboration or something more like collusion with a given facility? I cant say whether my suspicions had much basis in reality. But my trust in that hospital and my mothers surgeon began to wane.

I decided I needed to read up on the CMS bundled payment program for joint replacements. Online I found an item from the Federal Register that was more than 280 pages long with 48 pages of frequently asked questions describing the program to health-care providers. For patients and families, I found an oversimplified set of statements on the CMS website, including many still unproven assertions that bundled payment produces better care for patients.

The information I found made my head hurt. It felt as if my mothers care trajectory had been reduced to thousands of hard-to-understand words online. And I was someone trained to explain health-care issues for others.

I tried not to laugh out loud at the grand-sounding but vague statements about coordinated patient-centered care, the benefits of hospitals and providers working together more closely to coordinate their care, and how bundling created incentives to work together to deliver more effective and efficient care.

I know enough about health care to understand that these sentiments do not translate well in the siloed, hypercompetitive, slim-profit-margin system of care delivery that we have today.

Not working for her

What we saw during the first week my mother was in the rehabilitation facility made me feel as if the bundle was, in fact, working against her. Given her dementia-impaired reasoning, getting her up and walking and doing the many things required by rehab was going to be difficult and was going to take time.

Yet my siblings and I were told initially that participation in the bundled program generally meant five days of Medicare-covered rehabilitation for a partial hip replacement. Every time I spoke with the rehabilitation facility staff members in that first week, I could feel that this bundled payment program and its short discharge window were on their minds.

You know your mother is part of a care bundle, a nurse on my mothers floor mentioned to me one day. In separate instances, the physical therapist and the social worker in charge of my moms health-care team mentioned that to me as well.

I also learned that the rehabilitation facility was in constant communication with the care manager at the hospital that had discharged my mother. This could have been just good post-surgical care. But the cynic in me also wondered whether the rehabilitation facility, to ensure future referrals from the hospital, was also hoping to show that it could make the bundle a financial success, through highly efficient service delivery.

It soon became clear that my mother could not be discharged in five days; her response to physical therapy was slow. A little more than a week into my moms stay, my siblings and I had a meeting with my mothers health-care team at the rehab facility, with me participating by phone from Boston.

Your mother wasnt progressing, the team members said. At times, she refused to cooperate in her rehabilitation; the facility was about to report to the hospital and Medicare that they had reached the limit of rehabilitation progress. That would trigger her transition to a private pay patient, ending Medicare Part A coverage and saddling her with $400 a day of expense just to have a bed at the facility. (Any additional rehabilitation she required would cost extra.)

The meeting got heated in a hurry. You have to realize my mother has dementia and has to be treated differently  are you taking that into account? I asked. We pressed the team on the fact that my mothers dementia and other secondary morbidities, such as chronic knee pain, were probably slowing down her physical therapy progress compared with that of a typical patient.

I cant believe we have to state what should be obvious, I said.

I repeatedly brought up the financial pressures of the bundled payment program. I wanted everyone to know that we knew about it, a subtle (maybe not so subtle, in hindsight) form of shaming that might get them to think like advocates for my mother.

For 45 minutes, this back-and-forth continued between the dry, clinical analysis from the care team and the emotional, frustrated pleas from my brother and me. This was nothing like what the CMS website talked about. After the call, I left my office, feeling sick to my stomach, and went outside to clear my head. I felt increasingly powerless to help my mother.

An unrealistic policy

For years Ive believed and taught my students that fee-for-service medicine was a wasteful, dysfunctional way to reimburse providers for health care. Maybe it still is. But I now think that the supposed antidote  value-based reimbursement, which includes bundled payment plans  makes little sense and is equally dysfunctional, at least from the patients perspective. It can create a massive conflict of interest within a system that is neither coordinated nor collaborative, and facilitate gaming among the different institutions that are still very much concerned with profit.

Ironically, my mother is still in that same rehab facility, though now in a long-term-care bed that Medicare is not paying for.

Her staying put is out of necessity because the facility is close to where my brother and sister live, allowing them to visit her every day, and it had an available long-term-care bed when we needed it. There is no way she could function back in the apartment; she rarely gets out of her wheelchair, and her dementia grows worse.

In the end, Medicare covered her rehabilitation for five weeks, because of meaningful setbacks in her health and, I believe, because we pushed back hard in that meeting.

I credit the rehabilitation facility with justifying to both the hospital and Medicare a need to cover her care longer than the predicted period. But I wonder whether they have learned a hard lesson that they will apply in less patient-friendly ways to another person,particularly if bundled payments are our future.

health-science@washpost.com

Hoff is a professor of management, health-care systems and health policy at Northeastern University in Boston and the author of the forthcoming "Next in Line: Lowered Care Expectations in the Age of Retail- and Value-Based Health." This article was excerpted from Health Affairs and can be read in full at www.healthaffairs.org.

Read More

Graduating from college should be the start of life, but it can also cause depression

A doctor with a bad knee runs into one-size-fits-all medicine

Surgeons sometimes operate on two patients at once
Paul England pilots his boat through floodwaters in Port Arthur, Tex., in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey on Sept. 2. (Gerald Herbert/AP)

The astonishing hurricanes of 2017, Harvey and Irma, have provided a sobering lesson in the power of nature, along with some modest reassurance about how Americans respond when calm blue skies turn a violent gray.

The next test could come sooner than anyone wants. This stormy hurricane season is a long way from over, and there are ominous stirrings in the Atlantic, which has a history of brewing tropical cyclones that spin toward the United States. Hurricane Jose has been loitering in the Atlantic and might be preparing a run toward the East Coast this week. And Hurricane Maria is expected to hit the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean on Monday.

[As hurricanes approach, fear is in the water, spreading with new and viral efficiency]

While Texas and the Southeast pick up after significant wind and flood damage, the welcome news from the Harvey and Irma hurricanes is that, in a crisis, neighbors help neighbors. The government did not stumble and bumble as it did initially during the Hurricane Katrina disaster of 2005. Improved storm track forecasts gave millions of people and civic leaders time to prepare for tornadic winds and biblical flooding.

But the storms were not without moments of confusion and chaos, as well as tragic mistakes.

1 of 9 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Signs of life after Hurricane Irma hit the Florida Keys View Photos Abandoned objects show intimate glimpses of life on Islamadora and Stock Island before the hurricanes destruction Caption Abandoned objects show intimate glimpses of life on Islamadora and Stock Island before the hurricanes destruction Maggie Steber Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue.

In Texas, first responders were overwhelmed, leaving many flood-related rescues to a nomadic corps of volunteers with boats. In Sarasota, Fla., the American Red Cross struggled to staff emergency shelters because many of its local volunteers are snowbirds who dont arrive in Florida until October or later, said Jacqueline Fellhauer, who manages one of the Red Cross shelters.

We were just trying to grab people out of the sky, she said.

Perhaps the biggest lesson from the storms was driven home by the shocking images of flooded nursing homes in Texas and eight deaths at a facility for the elderly in Florida last week: In emergencies, communities and their government officials need to be much more effective in protecting the most-fragile members of society.

[Waiting for help that never came: Eight died in Florida nursing home]

The episode in South Florida, where the facility grew dangerously hot after losing air conditioning in the storm  along with multiple instances in Texas where entire residential populations of the infirm and wheelchair-bound required boat rescues  has prompted advocates and state authorities to finger-point and soul-search.

Advocates argued that all nursing homes should be marked as top priorities in both state evacuation and emergency response strategies. Better enforcement of existing codes  such as ensuring that generators are functional and up to date  might also be necessary.

The lesson learned is, when you lose power you have to get the frail elderly out of the nursing homes, an outraged Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) said in a telephone interview, remarking on the deaths at a Hollywood, Fla., facility. The nursing home is right across the street from the hospital.

In Houston, scores of people died in flooding that, although historic in scale, was predicted by meteorologists many days in advance. Harvey would strike the Gulf Coast and then inundate Southeast Texas with days of rain, they warned. Yet many residents were unprepared to see their homes and belongings lost suddenly to floodwater, and thousands needed to be rescued from the tops of homes or cars, sometimes after making ill-advised ventures out into the fast-flowing current.

[Storm flooding destroyed hundreds of thousands of cars in a city that relies heavily on them]

A number of observers have applauded Houston Mayor Sylvester Turners decision not to evacuate the city. The flooding, in the end, caused fewer deaths than the evacuation of Houston ahead of Hurricane Rita in 2005. But the days before the storm were filled with conflicting official messages, stirring elements of panic, confusion and hand-wringing among Texans. Gov. Greg Abbott (R), for example, encouraged coastal evacuations, while Turner (D) told residents to shelter in place.

In the aftermath of the storm, the states highly decentralized system of government meant that casualties were slow to tally and the desperate needs of local jurisdictions  like Beaumont, a city that languished without running water for days  appeared to get lost in the morass of competing cries for help.

You never have one clear distinctive voice, said retired Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen, who helped prop up the federal response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

By contrast, Allen said, Florida benefited from the clear leadership of Gov. Rick Scott (R): The governor was out front, he was the voice of the state, he was transparent, he was credible, he emoted.

The volunteers who flocked to the rescue efforts in Houston were a source of pride for many Texans, and an illustration, many said, of what went right during the crisis. But the citizen heroes of Houston learned some lessons as well. The flooded streets of the city and its suburbs contained dips and hills, deep water, shallow water and dangerously rushing water, and the amateur rescuers were sometimes woefully ill-equipped.

[An adrenaline-driven mission on the dark, waters streets of Texas]

Air boats and john boats were good for city rescues but often became treacherous in strong currents, they found. Bigger boats could handle the current, but were useless in shallower water, and problematic when curbs, cars, mailboxes and other obstacles got in the way.

Charitable efforts after the storms also saw a tide of donations mismatched to needs: too many clothes and would-be rescuers, and too few cleaning supplies and ready laborers to help with the unglamorous task of dragging moldy furniture out of wrecked homes, local church leaders said.

Rising coastal populations

Hurricanes expose the flaws in infrastructure. And in some instances, the airing of those flaws has sounded like a broken record.

Earlier warnings against Houstons unchecked building explosion have come back to haunt it yet again, environmentalists and civil engineers said this month, attributing part of the flooding to the citys lack of adequate drainage and excessive building in areas of known risk.

Old sewage systems in flat landscapes that require the pumping of wastewater need backup plans when the power gets knocked out and the facilities flood, as much of Central Florida has discovered. The power grid turned out to be so vulnerable to windstorms that 16 million people across the southeastern United States, most of them in Florida, lost power from Hurricane Irma, a U.S. record. Some still haven't gotten it back.

And then there are the basic needs that come with the basic facts of living on or near a coast.

We need better generators, we need to require generators at shelters, and they need to be beefy enough to sustain lights, food service, and a semblance of air-conditioning and fans, said Sarasota City Manager Tom Barwin.

There were glitches in the shelter plan in Miami-Dade County, Mayor Carlos Gimenez admitted as the storm roared toward Florida. He had insisted that the county open enough space for 100,000 people. But the Red Cross had trouble mustering volunteers amid difficult travel conditions, and many shelters were short-staffed.

In 1960, when Hurricane Donna rode up Florida, a peninsula that juts directly into Hurricane Alley, the state had fewer than 5 million residents. Today it has more than 20 million, and an average of roughly 1,000 people move to the state every day.

The Houston metropolitan areas population, estimated by the U.S. Census Bureau to be about 6.6 million, has similarly boomed during the past few decades, adding more than 100,000 people from 2014 to 2015 alone.

Along the packed U.S. coastlines, these waves of humanity are meeting a rising sea. Climate change intensifies deluges, and warmer water can supercharge a hurricane.

But trying to stop the population growth would be unrealistic, experts and officials say.

People are going to come to Florida, Sen. Nelson said. So we have to use the best scientific evidence about hurricanes and wind speeds and drainage and water and so forth, so that we have smart growth, not irresponsible growth.

Robert Gilbert, a professor and the chair of the civil, architectural and environmental engineering department at the University of Texas at Austin, echoed that view for geographical bathtubs like Houston and New Orleans.

Instead of rebuilding homes with the kind of materials that will require the large-scale stripping of drywall every time theres a flood, communities should build with the reality of floods in mind, Gilbert and other experts said. They recommended using materials that hold up better in water and considering drainage. For example, in many frequently wet parts of the world, homes are made of concrete, he said.

Saying were not going to let people move there is naive, Gilbert said. Maybe a better way of looking at it is how to build better, so that people can get wet but not lose their houses and not lose their jobs.

And instead of offering flood insurance to only those in arbitrarily marked flood zones, face up to the reality that flooding is a pervasive risk that warrants broad protection in the United States, he added. The way we deal with flood insurance in the United States is broken.

Others think it might be better to throw in the towel in some spots.

In Houston, Mayor Turner said Thursday that rebuilding low-income apartment complexes in areas like Greenspoint, a frequent flood zone on the north side of the city, might not be wise.

[Recovering from Harvey when you already live a disaster every day of your life]

Quite frankly, weve already had a conversation with FEMA because it may not be the best thing to rebuild in those locations, he said at a news conference. Otherwise well find ourselves in those conditions again.

In Bonita Springs, in Southwest Florida, flooding from a late August storm had not dried up by the time Hurricane Irma hit last week, submerging the area in four feet of water a few days later.

The low-lying city has been involved in a years-long legal battle over whether to allow development on its east side. Its vacant now and absorbs rainwater during major storms.

Mayor Peter Simmons thinks its time to consider buying out dozens of homeowners and letting the river do what it wants to do, an idea he said he discussed this week with Gov. Scott.

No matter what you do, Mother Nature is always going to win, Simmons said.

William Brock Long, the FEMA administrator, has had two epic storms in his first three months on the job, and what hes seen affirms his philosophy that the United States needs a fundamental change in disaster preparedness.

We dont seem to learn the lessons over and over again from past hurricanes, he said. He cited the many people who refused to evacuate from storm-surge zones, which blows my mind.

He said he believes the 10,000 people who didnt evacuate the Florida Keys got lucky, and dont realize that a shift of that storm track, just a few miles west or east, could have had devastating impact. Likewise, a slightly different path could have sent storm surge rampaging into Tampa Bay, or widespread devastation along Floridas Gulf Coast.

Americans need to save money, Long said. They need to recognize that disasters will happen.

We need a true culture of preparedness, he said.

Sen Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) echoed that sentiment after touring damage from Irma.

You live in the tropics, you live in South Florida, youre never more than 10 days away from a hurricane, Rubio said.

In Miami, where authorities have yet to finish clearing thousands of downed palm trees and power lines, humorist Dave Barry  who lived through Hurricane Andrew in 1992  offered his own lesson learned from Irma:

Never fall into the trap of thinking it wont happen again. But also never fall into the trap of thinking, while its happening, that you should have moved to Oklahoma. No offense to Oklahoma, theres a reason you live in Florida. And in the end, its worth it.

Sullivan reported from Houston and Bonita Springs, Fla., and Hauslohner reported from Houston. Roy Furchgott in Sarasota, Fla., contributed to this report.
Protesters participate in a "Die-In" on the third day of demonstrations after a judge acquitted Jason Stockley, a white former St. Louis police officer, in the 2011 fatal shooting of a black drug suspect, Anthony Lamar Smith. (Lawrence Bryant/Reuters)

Suburban St. Louis shop owners Sunday swept up broken glass and boarded up storefront windows that were shattered overnight when a day of peaceful protests turned violent, as the city and its surrounding communities prepared for a third day of demonstrations.

Saturday nights clash between police and a few dozen protesters in the Delmar Loop area of University City, about 10 miles west of St. Louis near Washington University, resulted in the arrests of at least nine people. At least half of the shops on one side of a two-block stretch of the popular nightlife district were damaged by the time the area was cleared.

Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens (R) issued a warning Sunday on Facebook that anyone caught destroying property would be held accountable and could face felony charges.

Saturday night, some criminals decided to pick up rocks and break windows. They thought theyd get away with it. They were wrong. Our officers caught em, cuffed em, and threw em in jail, the first-term governor wrote.

The protests began Friday after a judge acquitted Jason Stockley, a white former St. Louis police officer, in the 2011 fatal shooting of a black drug suspect, Anthony Lamar Smith, 24.

Saturday nights violence ended a day of noisy but peaceful demonstrations at suburban shopping malls.

Protesters shouted slogans such as Black lives matter and It is our duty to fight for our freedom as they marched through West County Center mall in the suburb of Des Peres, west of St. Louis. A group also demonstrated at another suburban shopping center, the Chesterfield Mall, and at a regional food festival.

Organizers hoped to spread the protests beyond predominantly black neighborhoods to those that are mainly white.

Saturdays confrontation took place in an area that is known for concert venues, restaurants, shops and bars, and that includes the Blueberry Hill club, where rock legend Chuck Berry played for many years. There had been a peaceful march there earlier in the evening that ended with organizers calling for people to leave and reconvene Sunday afternoon.

But a few dozen protesters refused to go. Police ordered them to disperse, saying the protest was illegal. Hundreds of police in riot gear eventually moved in with armored vehicles. The demonstrators retreated down a street, breaking windows with trash cans and throwing objects at police.

Several protesters were taken away in handcuffs, including a man who was carried off upside down. At least one demonstrator was treated after he was hit with pepper spray.

Sam Thomas, who was helping his friend clean up the glass from the shattered windows of his clothing and accessories boutique, said he understood why people were angry. The U.S. justice system needs to be fixed, he said.

Im not saying this is the right way to fix it, he said of the damage. The window isnt murdered. Nobody is going to have a funeral for the window. We can replace it.

On Friday night, nearly three dozen people were arrested and 11 police officers suffered injuries, including a broken jaw and dislocated shoulder. Five officers were taken to hospitals. Police said 10 businesses were damaged that night, and protesters broke a window and spattered red paint on the home of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson (D).

Smiths death is just one of several high-profile U.S. cases in recent years in which a white officer killed a black suspect, including the 2014 killing of Michael Brown in nearby Ferguson that sparked months of protests.

Stockley wasnt charged until May 2016, which was three years after he left the force and moved to Houston and more than four years after his December 2011 confrontation with Smith.

Stockley shot Smith after Smith fled from Stockley and his partner, who were trying to arrest him in connection with a suspected drug deal.

Stockley, 36, testified that he thought he was in danger because he saw Smith holding a silver revolver when Smith backed his car toward the officers and sped away.

Prosecutors said Stockley planted a gun in Smiths car after the shooting. The officers DNA was on the weapon but Smiths wasnt. Dash cam video from Stockleys cruiser recorded him saying he was going to kill this [expletive]. Less than a minute later, he shot Smith five times.

Stockleys lawyer dismissed the comment as human emotions during a dangerous pursuit. St. Louis Circuit Judge Timothy Wilson, who said prosecutors didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Stockley killed Smith, said the statement could be ambiguous.
Columnist

Before supporters of universal health coverage get all wrapped up debating a single-payer system, they need to focus on a dire threat to the Affordable Care Act likely to come up for a vote in the Senate before the end of the month.

The latest repeal bill is an offering from Republican Sens. Lindsey O. Graham (S.C.) and Bill Cassidy (La.) that would tear apart the existing system and replace it with block grants to the states. Block grants  flows of money for broad purposes with few strings attached  are a patented way to evade hard policy choices. All the tough decisions are kicked down to state capitals, usually with too little money to achieve the ends the block grant is supposed to realize.

Because Graham and Cassidy are civil interlocutors and have sounded more reasonable than many of their Republican colleagues in talking about health care, there is an unexamined assumption that their proposal must be more sensible than other approaches to repeal.

But it's not. In fact, it would be disastrous. In certain respects, it's even worse than earlier repeal measures, which at least kept some of the structure of Obamacare's subsidies in place. This bill would simply blow them up.

It would also shift money around in ways that would, on the whole, hurt states that have been trying to get health coverage to their less-affluent residents. A report on the bill by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a think tank devoted to the interests of less-advantaged Americans, concluded:

In general, over time, the plan would punish states that have adopted the Medicaid expansion or been more successful at enrolling low- and moderate-income people in marketplace coverage under the ACA. It would impose less damaging cuts, or even raise funding initially, for states that have rejected the Medicaid expansion or enrolled few low-income residents in marketplace coverage.

This should make the bill impossible for two brave Republicans, Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who stood up against Julys repeal effort. Both have said they would not be complicit in undermining health-care coverage in their states. The CBPP report showed that Graham-Cassidy would reduce federal funding for health coverage in Maine and Alaska and cut Medicaid overall.

Oh, yes, and the report also noted, with italicized emphasis, that as currently written, the block grant "would disappear altogether after 2026." What happens then? The bottom line, said Jacob Leibenluft, a senior adviser at the center, is that Graham-Cassidy "punts all the problems to governors while giving them insufficient tools and resources to address them."

This is a matter of urgency because the authority the Senate has to pass Obamacare repeal with just 51 votes expires Sept. 30. So if the bill comes up, it would probably hit the floor the last week of the month. All who care about the expansion of health-care coverage need to focus their energies on defeating this latest attack on Obamacare. However we eventually arrive at universal coverage, which we must, it will be far easier to get there by building on the ACA.

And assuming the latest repeal effort fails, last week's push for a single-payer system could come to be seen as a useful initiative, provided that "Medicare for all," as its supporters like to call it, is treated as a goal, not a litmus test. Defining the left pole of the health-care debate is helpful, in part because it shows how fundamentally moderate Obamacare is. It is not, as many conservatives have claimed, anything close to a socialist scheme.

And for those whose objective is single-payer, there are many options available that could gradually open the way for it. As the plan's leading advocate, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), noted in an underappreciated tweet in July: "In the short-term, to improve the Affordable Care Act, we should have a public option in 50 states and lower the Medicare age to 55." Many progressives and moderates who favor universal coverage but are not yet sold on single-payer would embrace options of this sort. Such measures would help a lot of people immediately and make any move to single-payer less disruptive.

What the country cannot afford is to go backward, which is where Sens. Graham and Cassidy would move us. Politics is about priorities, and the priority now must be to stop Congress from ripping health coverage away from millions of our fellow citizens.

Read more from E.J. Dionne's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
Protesters face off against police officers on the street in front of the Ferguson Police Department building in November 2014, in Ferguson, Mo., three months after the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown. (Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post)

John Shjarback is an assistant professor in the department of criminal justice at the University of Texas at El Paso. Scott Decker is a professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University. Scott Wolfe is an associate professor in the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University. David Pyrooz is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

American police are under intense scrutiny. A series of highly publicized deadly-force incidents involving minorities has focused media and public attention on police practices. There has been much speculation that this increased criticism has led some law enforcement agencies to pull back, possibly contributing to rising crime in many cities  an alleged relationship that has come to be termed the Ferguson effect.

Unfortunately, our understanding of this kind of decline in proactive law enforcement  known as de-policing  is long on guesswork and anecdote but short on data and research. We have little hard evidence about de-policing. Does it even occur in the wake of high-profile shootings? If it does, what are the effects?

The answers to these questions may not be as straightforward as they seem.

In late 2015, then-FBI Director James B. Comey made headlines when he suggested in a speech to the University of Chicago Law School that "a chill wind [is] blowing through American law enforcement over the last year. And that wind is surely changing behavior." He was speaking a little more than a year after Michael Brown, an 18-year-old African American man, was fatally shot by an officer in Ferguson, Mo. The unrest and backlash that followed this shooting  and speculation that it would cause police to take a more passive approach to law enforcement  give the "Ferguson effect" its name.

In his speech, Comey said it was his strong sense the recent spikes in violent crime in some cities were connected to such de-policing. But what do the numbers say?

We can shed some light here. For a study published in the Journal of Criminal Justice in May, we examined data on police activity in Missouri before and after Brown's death. Police departments in Missouri are obligated by state law to submit data on traffic stops, including whether a search was conducted, contraband (such as drugs or weapons) was found or an arrest was made.

Was there a change in police behavior? In Missouri, more than 100,000 fewer vehicle stops were made in 2015 than in 2014, a 6 percent reduction. This was a significant contrast to changes in stops between 2013 and 2014, when just a 2,000-stop swing was recorded. In 2015, something was happening in Missouri that could not be attributed to normal fluctuation.

When we took a more in-depth look into 118 police departments serving municipalities with more than 5,000 people, a similar pattern emerged. These agencies made approximately 67,000 fewer stops in 2015 than in 2014. There were no significant changes in the searches or arrests stemming from those stops; however, contraband hit rates did improve slightly  by 11 percent  from 2014 to 2015, which suggests officers were making better searches.

Where was such de-policing most likely to occur? Departments serving jurisdictions with larger African American populations conducted fewer stops, searches and arrests in 2015 than in 2014.

Crucially, however, in both the statewide data and the figures from individual municipalities, we found that  far from the fearful predictions of some  this de-policing had no effect on violent or property crime rates. Which raises a surprising question: In some places, particularly those  like Ferguson  that were using stops to generate additional city revenue, could de-policing represent a correction of practices that served no genuine public safety purpose?

Policing is best employed not as a blunt instrument but rather as a surgical tool. Such tools are most effective when deployed in highly focused ways on crime hot spots and against high-rate offenders. More study, in more places, is needed, but the data from Missouri suggest a provocative possibility: The Ferguson effect may be real. And it may be an improvement.
Former deputy editorial page fditor

The annual U.N. General Assembly is underway this week in New York, so we can expect to hear, again, its most hackneyed rhetorical theme  the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Speaker after speaker will declaim the urgency of settling the conflict once and for all; many will assert that the time for doing so has all but expired. Since he will be meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, President Trump may join in the chorus himself.

It consequently seems worthwhile to offer a couple of reality checks: No, this is not the time to fashion a Mideast peace deal; and, no, the time for one has not run out.

Much as it would be desirable to have a peaceful Palestinian state established alongside Israel  and even though many Western leaders regard the terms for it as all but settled  it can't happen now, for the simple reason that neither Netanyahu nor Abbas is willing or able to agree to it. President Barack Obama, who spent eight years trying to bulldoze or work around them, only ended up proving their resilience and intransigence. When he presented them with a painstakingly fashioned peace framework in 2014, Netanyahu buried it in caveats and conditions, while Abbas simply refused to respond.

In three years since, both have grown weaker and less able to act. Netanyahu is hemmed in by far-right coalition partners and dogged by corruption investigations. Abbas, at 82, remains in office eight years after his elected term expired, refusing to hold elections and thereby preventing the emergence of a successor. Since January, the two have been toying with the envoys Trump has dispatched to their capitals while ignoring their requests for confidence-building concessions. Abbas has not stopped paying subsidies to the families of militants imprisoned in Israel for acts of violence; Netanyahu has not stopped expanding Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Trumps notion of how to break this impasse involves using friendly Arab states, such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to help bring the parties to the table and induce them to settle. The theory is that Israels shared interests with those regimes, above all in opposing Iran, make such collaboration newly possible. But Saudi Arabias Mohammed bin Salman, absorbed in trying to consolidate power, will not stick out his neck for the Palestinians. Neither will an Egyptian regime already under assault by Islamist militants.

In short, whatever Trump might do, a breakthrough in the Middle East is probably years away. Yet the relative good news is that a smarter U.S. strategy could allow Palestinian statehood to survive that delay.

Obama and his secretary of state, John F. Kerry, were fond of proclaiming that Netanyahu was creating "an irreversible one-state reality" by continuing to build settlements in the West Bank and Jerusalem. The truth, as a former Kerry aide has demonstrated, is considerably more complicated. David Makovsky, now with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, has overseen a project to document every Israeli settlement with satellite photography, count the people in them and determine how many of them actually stand in the way of an Israeli-Palestinian deal.

The results, soon to be publicly available on a website, are revelatory. Of the some 600,000 settlers who live outside Israel's internationally recognized borders, just 94,000 are outside the border-like barrier that Israel built through the West Bank a decade ago. Just 20,000 of those moved in since 2009, when Netanyahu returned to office; in a sea of 2.9 million Palestinians, they are hardly overwhelming. Last year, 43 percent of the settler population growth was in just two towns that sit astride the Israeli border  and that Abbas himself has proposed for Israeli annexation.

If the Palestinians were today to accept the deal they were offered nine years ago by then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, a state on 94.2 percent of the West Bank, only 20 percent of current settlers would find themselves on the wrong side of the border, Makovsky calculates. You can have a tipping point on sheer numbers, where there are simply too many people on the wrong side of the line, he told me. For now, though, what the satellite data shows is that its not too late for two states.

It follows that a wise U.S. policy would aim at preserving that option until Israeli and Palestinian leaders emerge who can act on it. Makovsky proposes a simple trade-off: Netanyahu stops building in areas beyond the West Bank fence, and Abbas stops paying off militants and their families. Yes, Trumps envoys already pitched that and so far got nowhere. But the good news, Makovsky says, is that neither leader wants to say no to Trump. If the president aims in his New York meetings at pragmatic results, rather than the ultimate deal, he might do some real good.

Read more from Jackson Diehl's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley speaks during a news briefing at the White House in Washington on Sept. 15. (Carolyn Kaster/AP)

Columnist

As world leaders converge on New York this week for the U.N. General Assembly, a U.N. body is set to publicly call for the release of two Iranian Americans imprisoned unjustly in Tehran. That creates an opportunity for the Trump administration to make good on its promise to ramp up efforts to bring American hostages home.

With Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif present with him in New York, President Trump is expected to focus on the future of the Iran nuclear deal, Iranian military expansion in the Middle East and the regimes human rights abuses. But the subject of American hostages is also a stated priority of the Trump White House. The question is whether the president will give it equal billing or put the fate of the U.S. prisoners on a back burner.

The U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, a body created by the U.N. Human Rights Council, has issued an official opinion stating Iran is unjustly imprisoning two Iranian Americans, Baquer and Siamak Namazi, in violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The judgment is being released Monday.

The Working Group considers that . . . the appropriate remedy would be to release [them] immediately and accord them an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, the opinion states.

Both Namazis were sentenced this past October to 10 years in Irans notorious Evin prison after show trials for the charge of collusion with an enemy state, referring to the United States. Behind the scenes, the White House has been working with Babak Namazi, Baquers son and Siamaks brother, to press for their release.

Babak Namazi told me in an interview that Rouhani and Zarif should not be allowed to visit the United Nations without being confronted about the imprisonment of his family members.

The international community and the U.S. have to press upon them that taking hostages is a great injustice, he said. I hope member states take this ruling as further evidence that Iran is in violation of international law and press them to release them, before its too late.

Baquer Namazi is 81 and in poor health. He served for more than a decade as a senior official at UNICEF, which is also involved in advocating his release. Babak Namazi has met with senior Trump administration officials, including U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley and deputy national security adviser Dina Powell.

In July, after Iran handed down a 10-year sentence for Chinese American graduate student Xiyue Wang, the White House issued a statement announcing that the administration was "redoubling efforts" to secure the release of Americans held hostage in Iran, including the Namazis and former FBI official Robert Levinson, who has been missing for more than a decade.

President Trump is prepared to impose new and serious consequences on Iran unless all unjustly imprisoned American citizens are released and returned, the statement read.

Administration officials said punitive measures on Iran related to the hostages were being considered as part of the administration's overall Iran policy review, which is reportedly near completion. That policy could be rolled out next month, when the White House is also required to announce the way forward for the nuclear deal.

In the meantime, Trump and his senior national security aides could do several things to bring the issue of Iranian hostage-taking to the fore. First, Trump could mention the issue in his first-ever address to the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday. Next, the administration could announce new human-rights-related sanctions designations, which are not prohibited under the nuclear deal.

The Trump administration could also use its meetings with allies in New York to work on a broader prisoner swap to bring the Americans home. When Zarif visited the United States in July, he complained that the administration had orchestrated the arrest of several Iranians here and in several other countries and called for their release "from a humanitarian perspective."

In January 2016, the Obama administration struck a prisoner deal with Iran that resulted in the release of four Americans, but Siamak Namazi was not among them. Zarif reportedly promised to secure his release but then failed to deliver.

In previewing the administrations participation in this weeks General Assembly, Haley touted a renewed U.S. commitment to making the United Nations more relevant and more geared toward confronting and solving real problems.

The United Nations is now "not just about talking, it's about action," she said.

Confronting Iranian leaders about American prisoners while the leaders are on American soil this week could show there is something behind that claim.

Read more from Josh Rogin's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
In this July 26, 2017, file frame grab from video taken from a police body camera and provided by attorney Karra Porter, nurse Alex Wubbels is arrested by a Salt Lake City police officer at University Hospital in Salt Lake City. (Salt Lake City Police Department/Courtesy of Karra Porter via Associated Press)

Thanks to Petula Dvorak for shining a light on workplace violence in her Sept. 12 Metro column "It's time we protect  and respect  nurses." Health-care and social-service workers are twice as likely to suffer an assault at work as those in other occupations, and the problem is getting worse.

Some employers ignore the safety concerns and treat violent threats as a normal part of doing business. They are not. No one, especially nurses and other care providers, should fear assault or injury for doing their jobs. Because our members are being hit, stabbed and threatened on a regular basis, we and other unions asked the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in July 2016 for a national standard to protect social workers and health-care workers. Employers can develop programs to help prevent and reduce the severity of assaults in the workplace. Most will not do so unless required by a federal or state agency.

Health-care and social-service workers across the country deserve a federal OSHA standard. Job-safety regulations save lives and prevent career-ending injuries, allowing health-care and social-service workers to do their jobs helping the rest of us.

Ann Twomey, Rutherford, N.J.

The writer is president of Health Professionals

and Allied Employees.
PRESIDENT TRUMP wants to keep Confederate monuments where they are, but he may be preparing the ideological justification for removing a far more important symbol of enduring American values: the Statue of Liberty. Having already cut refugee resettlement by more than half, compared with the Obama administration, officials close to Mr. Trump are pushing for a further draconian reduction, to levels not seen since the Cold War. If Mr. Trump backs such a proposal, the message to those fleeing persecution and violence would be to shelter in place  any place, as long as it's not the United States.

So much for welcoming the tired, huddled masses.

A report in the New York Times describes an initiative driven by White House senior policy adviser Stephen Miller that would whack annual refugee admittances below the current cap fixed by Mr. Trump of 50,000, already the lowest number since at least 1980 and less than half the 110,000 that President Barack Obama set in his last year in office.

Mr. Miller is said to have urged a ceiling of 15,000 annual admittances, fewer than the number of new refugees fleeing persecution and violence each day  about 28,000, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees. That hints at the administration's indifference to the world's refugees, who now number about 17 million (not counting Palestinians). Half of them are children.

The stated rationales for further refugee cuts  concerns over terrorists sneaking in, and the costs involved  are not defensible. In fact, both the Obama and Trump administrations have tightened vetting for refugees, who are now the subject of exhaustive background checks despite the fact that very few terrorist attacks, in the United States or Europe, have been carried out by refugees. As for the cost, most is borne by private resettlement agencies.

In fact, the Trump administration is waging a multi-front crusade against legal as well as illegal immigration, in which the president's stated compassion for "dreamers"  young undocumented immigrants usually brought to the United States by their parents  is the exception that proves the rule. Mr. Trump backs drastically cutting levels of legal immigration. He is appealing to the Supreme Court to uphold his ban on immigrants from six mainly Muslim countries. He has intensified deportation sweeps targeting not only criminal immigrants, but also law-abiding migrants who have lived in this country for years.

By adding refugees  by definition the world's most beleaguered people  to its lengthy list of undesirables, the administration would conflate what is essentially a humanitarian and diplomatic program with its anti-immigrant agenda. As former homeland security secretary Michael Chertoff argued in The Post on Friday, gutting the refugee program subverts the United States' security and economic interests while turning Washington's back on those brave enough to oppose the Islamic State and other groups antithetical to America's interests.

Republican and Democratic presidents have backed a robust refugee-resettlement program not mainly to make Americans feel good about themselves, but to bolster Americas image as a confident, welcoming country whose interests span the globe. By rolling back refugee admissions to levels negligible when measured against the need, the administration would accelerate Washingtons retreat from the global stage and inaugurate a new age of American timidity.
IN THE four months since the violent attack on peaceful protesters by Turkish bodyguards during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Washington, nothing has made the Turkish government own up to this outrageous assault on democratic principles on American soil. Not protests from the State Department, not bipartisan condemnations from Congress and not the indictments of Turkish security officials on criminal charges. Perhaps a threat to block certain weapon sales will be a more meaningful way to suggest there is a price to be paid for such brutality.

Turkey's continued intransigence about the events of May 16, in which 11 people were injured in a melee outside the Turkish ambassador's residence, prompted a Senate committee to approve a measure that would block the U.S. government from supporting the sale of weapons to security forces protecting Mr. Erdogan. "We are not going to let President Erdogan's personal bodyguards attack peaceful American protesters on American soil  and we're certainly not going to sell them weapons while they do it," said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who co-sponsored the amendment with Sen. Patrick J. Leahy (D-Vt.) that was approved this month on a bipartisan vote in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Video of the demonstration showed protesters being chased down, kicked and beaten by men who included members of Mr. Erdogan's security detail while the Turkish president looked on complacently. Nineteen people, including 15 identified as Turkish security officials, were indicted on felony charges, but most are believed to have left the United States and only two have been taken into custody. The Justice Department won't comment on whether it is seeking extradition, and the Turkish government has been uncooperative to the point of insult. That Mr. Erdogan called the indictments "a clear and scandalous expression of how justice works in America" is in keeping with the utter contempt he has displayed so brutally in his own country toward the right to dissent, a free press and an independent judiciary.

This amendment, part of a larger spending bill for the State Department that now goes to the full Senate, makes clear, said Mr. Van Hollen, that we dont want U.S. taxpayer dollars to be used for . . . cracking down on dissenters in Turkey and the United States. Congress should approve the measure, and the president should sign it.


A local music festival in Creedmoor, N.C., on Saturday. (Liz Condo for The Washington Post)

During one of their usual morning gatherings at the Bojangles' restaurant in this rural town near the Virginia border, a group of retirees from a local Baptist church shook their heads at the failure of Washington to repeal Obamacare, lower the national debt, build a wall along the southern border, kick people off welfare or get anything else accomplished.

But the focus of their blame is not President Trump  it's Republicans in Congress whom they view as standing in the way. And they applaud the president's recent attempts to work with Democrats on issues such as the debt ceiling and immigration.

I am proud to say I am proud of Trump, said Mildred Oakes, 76, a former registered Democrat who is no longer affiliated with a party.

Make that two of us, said another church member.

Make it three, said Norman Boyd, 79, a retired machinist who is registered as a Democrat  but hasnt voted for one for president since Bill Clinton in the 1990s.

I think hes an idiot, but I voted for him, another church member chimed in about Trump as others laughed.

A woman sitting across from him countered with, As opposed to what was in there before?

These churchgoers are at the heart of the dilemma nagging Republican leaders as they struggle to forge a path between the Grand Old Party and the Party of Trump. These voters dont consider themselves Republicans. They are first and foremost supporters of the president.

They are quick to explain away the compromises the former real estate developer and reality-TV star has made and the inconsistencies in many of his positions. They describe Washington as a swamp and speak of Democratic and Republican congressional leaders with the same levels of frustration and disappointment  while describing Trump as if he were a longtime neighbor. They have high hopes for his presidency, but they also fear he might be held back by his party. And they dont expect their devotion to the president to waver, even a tiny bit, anytime soon.

Hes elected as our president. We need to give him our respect, Oakes said. Ill vote for him four years from now because I think it will take longer for him to clean up the mess that was left by Obama.

Granville County has long been a Democratic stronghold, but it was one of six rural counties in North Carolina that flipped, voting twice for Barack Obama but voting for Trump last year. Local Democrats blame the flip on low turnout, especially among African Americans, who make up a third of the county's population. But local Republicans say it reflects how many in the county feel left behind by Democrats and are looking for a change.



Friends and fellow churchgoers, from left, Norman Boyd, Mildred Oakes, Wayne Overton and Steve Jones meet regularly for breakfast in Oxford, N.C. (Liz Condo for The Washington Post)

Statewide in North Carolina, nearly 39 percent of voters are registered as Democrats. But that includes voters who haven't voted for a Democrat in a general election in decades but keep the designation out of a sense of family tradition or because they want to vote in local races that are usually decided in the Democratic primary. The number of unaffiliated voters has steadily grown and, as of this month, is now slightly higher than the number of registered Republicans. One Democratic strategist said that when it comes down to how voters actually vote, North Carolina is pretty evenly split between Republicans and Democrats. In November's general election, Trump won the state.

In Granville County, Trump beat Hillary Clinton by less than 700 votes, while voters there narrowly put their support behind a Democrat for governor, Roy Cooper, and a Democratic congressman, G.K. Butterfield, along with a Republican senator, Richard Burr.

In interviews last week with nearly three dozen county residents who voted for Trump, nearly all said they vote for the person, not the party. With that emphasis  even if they would never dream of actually voting for a Democrat for president, especially Hillary Clinton  its little surprise that many feel more loyalty to Trump than the Republican Party.

Many of the church members gathered at Bojangles last week pointed to the presidents Christian faith, saying he brought the Bible and prayer back into the White House. Even though Trump rarely attends church, he frequently talked about religion on the campaign trail, promising that with him in the White House, Christians would again feel free to openly say Merry Christmas.

President Trump has talked more about Christian values than any of the last two or three presidents that weve had, said Wayne Overton, 79, who is retired from the Postal Service and now raises cows on a farm a few miles outside of town and tours the country in a motor home. And I admire him for picking the vice president that he picked. If something happened, our country would be in good hands.

While Overton and others said that Trump is far from perfect, they said that he represents them far better than Obama  and that he isnt afraid to say the unpopular thing. Too often, they said, Republican and Democratic leaders provide the politically correct response instead of the fair one. Thats why they were encouraged to hear Trump speak out against liberal protesters who have been involved in violent clashes across the country and to hear him defend the countrys history, protecting the America that they know.

It used to be in the [county hospital] waiting room you would see white and black, but mostly black. You go into the waiting room now, you see Latinos. Theyre the ones having the babies, said Oakes, a grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of one who is retired from an agency that provided in-home health care. So, you know, whites will be the minority very soon.

When asked if that worries her, Oakes replied, Well, I believe in Christian values.

When asked what she meant by that, Oakes gestured to Curtis Nelson, an African American employee at Bojangles who is a pastor at a local church, voted for Trump and often stops by to chat with the breakfast club.

Curtis knows I love Curtis as much as anybody  but I believe in Christian values, she said, adding that she has a friend who legally immigrated from Mexico and that she is supportive of a Latino church that started in the county.

The church members soon wrapped up their morning gathering and were replaced by the lunch crowd, including Roy Strickland, who grabbed a booth in the corner as he waited for a friend.

Strickland, a Navy veteran, moved to the county in 1973 and worked as a truck mechanic and then as an industrial pipe fitter until he was laid off in 2009. He said he went on disability for his diabetes, arthritis and other health issues, and when he tried to look for work, no one wanted to hire him. Hes now 69 and lives eight miles outside town in what he calls the middle of nowhere.

He has long depended on government checks to survive. After working for more than four decades, he said, he gets angry when he sees people getting welfare who haven't yet contributed, and he hopes that Trump will crack down  a common sentiment here.

Strickland is a registered Democrat on paper but otherwise is a longtime Republican. He said he gets frustrated with mainstream Republicans in Congress such as House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.), who has an agenda of his own and is trying to undermine what Trump is trying to do. He was glad to see the president agree with Democrats to raise the government borrowing limit and avoid a government shutdown.

Something had to be done, Strickland said. I dont think that the deal he cut with them to do that was putting him in their corner. It was just business. Regardless of whatever else he is, hes a businessman.

Hes also been heartened to see the president stand up to liberal protesters and the anti-fascist movement more commonly known as antifa. Strickland said that he has never seen the country so racially divided, and he blames Obama for causing trouble and widening the gap between the races by getting involved when black teenagers were shot by white police officers, which Strickland views as rare occurrences that the media blows out of proportion.



A statue honoring Confederate soldiers is reflected in the window of the Richard H Thornton Library in Oxford, N.C. (Liz Condo for The Washington Post)

When Strickland was growing up in Durham, he said, he would often walk four miles from his home outside town to the movie theater, passing through black neighborhoods and chatting with those he passed. He often wore a jean jacket with a Confederate flag on the back.

I never had any trouble. I would meet a black man walking down the street, or a woman, and Id speak to them, theyd speak to me. . . . Somebody sitting on a porch, wed wave to each other. There was never a problem with it, he said. Look at it now. If a white man walks through sections of Durham, he gonna get killed.

Strickland said the Confederate flag is part of his history.

"It's part of everybody's history, just like these statues that they keep tearing down," he said. "They're history. They're nothing that's hurting anybody."

Later in the day, as the sun set in a grand display of pink and lavender, Debbie Spencer loaded groceries into her car at the Walmart across from the Bojangles. The 65-year-old keeps a baton and three knives hidden in her car so that she can fight off anyone who might try to attack her  but she mostly feels safe here in Granville County, home to winding country roads, tobacco fields, meadows of yellow wildflowers and quiet little towns. She will go to the nearby city of Henderson only during daylight, and she never ventures to Durham, which is about 30 miles south.

Both of Spencers parents were Democrats, although she said that they would not recognize the Democratic Party today. She has been a registered Republican all her adult life, although she doesnt recognize the party that many Republicans in Washington claim to represent  and she doesnt understand why Republican leaders are fighting Trump. She jokingly suggested that the country might benefit from all of Washington being wiped out during one of Trumps trips to Mar-a-Lago.

The Republicans in both the House and the Senate are thwarting the presidents  no, the peoples  agenda, said Spencer, who is retired after working for nearly three decades manufacturing roof shingles. They get up there, and they get a taste of power, and they get a taste of money, and they forget us.
The Trump administration escalated its rhetoric against North Korea on Sunday, warning that time is running out for a peaceful solution between Kim Jong Un's regime and the United States and its allies.

Administration officials said the risk from North Korea's nuclear weapons program is rising, and they underscored that President Trump will confront the looming crisis at the U.N. General Assembly this week. Trump, who spoke by phone with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Saturday, referred to Kim on Twitter as "Rocket Man" and asserted that "long gas lines" are forming in the North because of recent U.N. sanctions on oil imports.

[In a tweet, Trump sticks North Koreas Kim Jong Un with a nickname: Rocket Man]

Though Trumps top aides emphasized that the administration is examining all diplomatic measures to rein in Pyongyang, they made clear that military options remain on the table.

If North Korea keeps on with this reckless behavior, if the United States has to defend itself or defend its allies in any way, North Korea will be destroyed, Nikki Haley, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union. None of us want that. None of us want war. But we also have to look at the fact that you are dealing with someone [in Kim] who is being reckless, irresponsible and is continuing to give threats not only to the United States, but to all of its allies. So something is going to have to be done.



This undated picture released from North Korea's Korean Central News Agency on Sept. 16, 2017, shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspecting a launching drill of the medium-and-long-range strategic ballistic rocket Hwasong-12 at an undisclosed location. (STR/AFP/Getty Images)

The question remains, however, how realistic the Trump administrations threats are as the North quickly advances its nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. Trumps latest tweets came two weeks after North Korea tested a nuclear device that experts said measured at 250 kilotons, 17 times the force of the atomic bomb that destroyed Hiroshima in World War II.

[North Korea tested another nuke. How big was it?]

Trump warned Kim last month that the North would feel the "fire and fury" of the United States if the regime continued its threats and destabilized the Korean Peninsula and East Asia. But Kim promptly responded with new threats and a round of new weapons tests.

Trump is scheduled to join Moon and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at a working lunch Thursday in New York, on the sidelines of the U.N. meetings, to discuss North Korea, White House aides said. Yet Trump will not have the opportunity to meet with Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia; both leaders are skipping the annual gathering.

Last week, Haley touted the U.N. sanctions on the North, saying that, if enacted, they would cut off 30 percent of oil imports and curtail 90 percent of Kims exports, putting a major economic pinch on a government that has long struggled to provide for the nations estimated 25 million people.

Yet Trump said last week that he and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson are skeptical that the sanctions will have a significant impact on North Koreas nuclear ambitions. Administration officials reaffirmed the United States long-standing policy that the North must agree to relinquish its nuclear arsenal as a prerequisite for direct diplomatic talks.

Hes going to have to give up his nuclear weapons, because the president has said that he is not going to tolerate this regime threatening the United States and our citizens with a nuclear weapon, national security adviser H.R. McMaster said on ABCs This Week.

Trump, McMaster added, has been very clear about that, that all options are on the table.

At the same time, the administration signaled that it is not pursuing regime change, a position that could help persuade Beijing to play a stronger role in pressuring Kim. China facilitates about 90 percent of North Koreas trade and provides its oil.

Yet Tillerson said North Korea does not appear to be interested in denuclearization talks.

Im waiting for the regime in North Korea to give us some indication that theyre prepared to have constructive, productive talks, he said on CBSs Face the Nation.

We have tried a couple of times to signal to them that were ready when theyre ready, Tillerson added, and they responded with more missile launches and a nuclear test. All they need to do to let us know theyre ready to talk is to just stop these tests, stop these provocative actions, and lets lower the threat level and the rhetoric.

Many U.S. allies in Europe and elsewhere are strongly opposed to any use of force that could further destabilize the Korean Peninsula and East Asia. The two unanimous U.N. Security Council votes for sanctions in recent weeks have marked a new level of alarm from those allies, as well as Moscow and Beijing.

[For Trump and his team, a time to be serious at United Nations debut]

But McMaster said Washington isnt assuming the sanctions will work or buy time.

We all have our doubts about whether or not thats going to be enough, he said, and so we have to prepare all options. We have to make sure all options are under development to ensure that this regime cannot threaten the world with a nuclear weapon.

Analysts have said the North has shown rapid improvements in its ballistic missile and nuclear technologies. Recent missile tests have demonstrated the range to potentially strike the continental United States, along with the technical capacity to mount a miniature nuclear device on a missile, analysts said.

That has accelerated the urgency in Washington, at the White House and on Capitol Hill. Asked on CNN whether the Trump administration should continue to deny the North diplomatic talks until it ends its nuclear program, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said no.

I think that North Korea is not going to give up its program with nothing on the table, she said. I think that what could happen is that we could have reliable verification of a freeze of both the nuclear program and the missile arsenal, and that we could conceivably talk China into supporting that kind of a freeze, because it would carry with it no regime change and no war.

Carol Morello in Washington contributed to this report.
The Senate passed its version of a massive defense bill on Monday, setting up negotiations with the House but leaving the most controversial policy issues that lawmakers hoped to address unresolved.

Senators voted 89 to 8 to pass the nearly $700 billion bill, which authorizes support for Pentagon programs and combat operations at home and abroad. Five Democrats and three Republicans  including Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker (R-Tenn.)  refused to back the measure, while defense hawks Sens. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) did not vote.

By sheer size, the bill is the most comprehensive piece of legislation Congress grapples with in any given year, apart from dealing with the budget. This year, it has enjoyed unique bipartisan support in the Senate.

But part of that harmony is due to the fact that this years Senate bill was unfettered by several of the policy fights senators had hoped to wage against the Trump administration, on matters including transgender troops and North Korea.

While the bill authorizes spending on an array of defense programs, lawmakers will take up separate legislation later this year that would appropriate the necessary funds.

Senate leaders were unable to strike a deal to schedule votes on several proposed amendments, meaning that highly anticipated debates over whether to increase sanctions against North Korea and challenge President Trumps announced ban on transgender troops never happened on the Senate floor.

On Friday, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain (R-Ariz.) threw his support behind a free-standing bill that would curtail Trump's proposed transgender ban, which the president announced via Twitter in July.

McCains open declaration of opposition to the presidents ban was notable  but also a sign that the measure would likely not be folded into the defense bill.

Senators of both parties also proposed stiffening sanctions against Pyongyang over its latest ballistic missile and nuclear tests, including measures to ban the import of any goods made by North Korean labor and block anyone who does business with North Korea from the U.S. financial system. Those proposals never came up for a vote.

Of the politically controversial matters that arose, the only one to receive a vote was an amendment from Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) to impose a six-month deadline on Congress to pass a new authorization for use of military force (AUMF) against extremist groups. The Senate voted to kill his proposal; even several of Congress's biggest AUMF champions recoiled at setting up a do-or-die situation in which the military could be left without any legal underpinning for combat operations in Afghanistan and the Middle East.

But the Senate's bill does include a few significant policy changes, including a government-wide ban on using Russian firm Kaspersky Labs' software. The measure, presented initially by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), goes further than an order that acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke issued last week, which applied only to federal civilian agencies. The defense bill's ban would also cover the military and government contractors.

Kaspersky Lab has strongly denied it is a conduit for Russian government espionage. "Kaspersky Lab has never helped, nor will help, any government in the world with its cyberespionage or offensive cyber efforts, and it's disconcerting that a private company can be considered guilty until proven innocent, due to geopolitical issues," the company said in a statement last week.

Russias mounting aggression, including its attempts to meddle in the 2016 presidential election, inspired several initiatives in both the House and Senates defense bills, such as intensified cybersecurity operations, some of which the Trump administration has criticized, and measures designed to stay ahead of Russia in the arms and space race  including a Space Corps program the Pentagon has said it doesnt yet want.

House and Senate lawmakers will wrestle over those issues in the coming weeks, as Congress also debates how much money to commit to the defense programs they are trying to authorize.

The defense bills hike the level of defense spending over the current budget, an infusion lawmakers say is crucial to keeping the military functioning. Congressional hawks including McCain pointed out that the increases attracted broad support this year, earning unanimous votes in the Armed Services Committee.

Congress faces its next budget deadline in December, and it is not clear how much lawmakers will direct toward defense spending.

"For too long our nation has asked our men and women in uniform to do too much with far too little," McCain said Monday, warning that financially, "we are gambling with the lives of the best among us, and we're now seeing the costs."

"This legislation is only part of the solution," he added, referring to the defense bill. "We still have no path to actually appropriate the money that we are about to authorize."

Read more at PowerPost

Ellen Nakashima contributed to this report.
Senate Republican leaders seem increasingly focused on reviving their effort to undo the Affordable Care Act before the end of the month, asking Congress's nonpartisan budget analysts to fast-track consideration of a plan that would devolve federal health-care spending to states.

The Congressional Budget Office is in the process of estimating the cost and coverage impact of the so-called Graham-Cassidy bill, according to a senior Senate Republican aide. The measure from Sens. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Dean Heller (R-Nev.) would provide states with funding to establish health insurance programs outside ACA protections and mandates, an approach that could force millions off insurance rolls.

Republicans are facing pressure to undercut the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, with legislation as soon as possible, partially because the Senates ability to pass budgetary legislation with a simple majority expires Sept. 30. After that date, health-care legislation will require 60 votes to pass, making it much harder for Republicans to approve legislation that would restructure Obamacare.

With little to lose, Democrats cautiously share the drivers seat with Trump

Democrats are taking the latest chatter seriously, and liberal lawmakers spent the weekend slamming the bill on social media.

"The Graham-Cassidy @SenateGOP 'health care' bill IS Trumpcare, & it will rip health care away from millions of Americans," Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) wrote as part of a series of tweets.

Progressive groups also spent the weekend on the warpath. Ben Wikler, the Washington director of MoveOn, told followers to be ready for a possible vote as early as Sept. 27.

Republican leaders are now trying to determine whether they have enough votes to begin debate on the bill, according to Senate aides. They are also trying to get Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), whose no vote sank the most recent Republican health-care bill in July, fully on board.

McCain has said he supports the bill in theory but wants to assess its impact on Arizona. Without prompting, he cautioned Republicans on Sunday against the instinct to "ram through our proposal" with a party-line vote.

Why did Obamacare fail? Obamacare was rammed through with Democrats votes only. . . . Thats not the way to do it. Weve got to go back. If I could just say again, the way to do this is have a bill, put it through committee, he said on CBSs Face the Nation.

Senate Republicans have a very slim path to victory on Graham-Cassidy: If more than two Republicans vote no, the bill wont pass. The math became even harder once Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) announced his opposition Friday.

"I can't support a bill that keeps 90% of Obamacare in place," Paul tweeted.

Cassidy replied to say the measure "repeals entire architecture of Obamacare & gives Kentucky control over its own health care."

To make their tax plan work, Republicans eye a favorite blue-state break

Compared with Paul, conservative groups have been fairly quiet on the bill. Americans for Prosperity, the Koch-funded tea party group, has said nothing about it since the groups pivot to tax reform in August.

Heritage Action for America, which organized years of repeal rallies, echoed Pauls worry that the bill would leave the ACAs basic structure in place.

But senators all-or-nothing pitch for the bill has worked on some organizations.

The Family Research Council has backed the measure as the last good chance to stop taxpayer funding of abortion and redirect tax dollars away from the nations largest abortion business, Planned Parenthood.

FreedomWorks also gave the bill a partial endorsement.

Its not the repeal of Obamacare that was promised, wrote FreedomWorks legislative affairs vice president Jason Pye on Saturday. Nevertheless, FreedomWorks is treating it as what is likely to be the last serious attempt to reform Obamacare.

Kelsey Snell, Mike DeBonis and Sean Sullivan contributed to this report.

Read more at PowerPost
They are not hard to spot, if you know where to look, especially at night  the floors of swanky new apartments, most of the windows dark, almost all the time.

The zombie flats. Owned, but empty.

And on this cobbled mews in Chelsea? On that private walk in Kensington? No one home, either. There's enough empty property here to be given a name in the British news media: the "ghost mansions" of "lights-out London," the streets where it is alleged that seven in 10 addresses are second  or third or fourth  homes.

The blight of conspicuous empty homeownership is a big story in London  and around the globe.

But a solution is surprisingly elusive.

London faces a crushing shortage of affordable housing, because the city is a global magnet for aspirational newcomers, a safe refuge for stash-your-cash capital and a victim of its own smashing success, even in these anxious Brexit days.

"Affordable" here being a relative term, where the average price for a flat last year was $713,143. It is especially brutal for young people, those in the middle income range and first-time buyers.

So London Mayor Sadiq Khan vowed to tax the empties.

The rising Labour Party star, who has sparred with President Trump, campaigned on the populist issue of the injustice of foreign ownership and ghost mansions, promising that Londoners should get "first dibs" on new construction.

This month, Khan appealed to Parliament to give Londons local governments new authority to seriously jack up taxes for high-value homes left empty by the international elite.

[London mayor withdraws support for garden bridge]

Whether Khans plan to tax the vacant rich will do much to solve the affordable-housing crunch is unknown.

The experts say it is dubious.

Why? In part, because the rich are immune from a relatively puny bump in taxes. And its not like they will move out of their rarely occupied townhouses and a dozen needy families will move in.

The London mayor is not alone in casting about for ways to solve his citys housing shortage.

The "empty home" phenomenon has gone viral in hot postal codes around the world  and it is especially visible in cities such as Miami, Hong Kong, Vancouver, B.C., Dubai, Singapore, San Francisco and Sydney, where foreign buyers and their shell companies gobble up units as investment properties and piggy banks.

In Manhattan, the New Yorker magazine had a look at Census Bureau numbers, which revealed that in Midtown  from 49th to 70th streets, between Fifth and Park avenues  nearly 1 in 3 residences are unoccupied at least 10 months a year.

Newsweek estimated that in Paris, "one apartment in four sits empty most of the time."

In Jerusalem, the deputy mayor said the number of ghost flats is triple the official estimate, and bemoaned the impact on young families searching for a bit of living space.

But how to stop or slow or tax the empty units is uncharted territory  including whether it is even possible or desirable.

Susan Emmett, head of housing and urban regeneration at Policy Exchange, a London-based think tank, said that the city has a real housing problem but that empty luxury apartments are a scapegoat.

What it does, she said, it gives us a focal point for a sense of injustice, and people can point to something that is big and shiny and say, Look, Im struggling to pay my rent for a rubbish flat and theres this enormous building and nobody is living there. You can understand that anger and its pretty real, and I can understand Khan wants to do something about it.

Yet its not clear that the mayors proposals would make a dent. Labour leaders have proposed tripling taxes on the highest-end properties  from todays tops of about $2,500 to tomorrows $7,500 a year.

[A neighborhood feud over a basement highlights a problem for Londons super rich]

Most of Londons 20,000 empty units arent owned by the super-rich, but by the middle and lower rungs  and studies show that most homes are empty because they are the subjects of inheritance tussles or uninhabitable or in need of repairs.

When faced with the reports, Khan retreated to say that in London, just one home left unoccupied is one too many, which is not much of a campaign slogan.

Housing experts say Khans tax plan could hurt the middle class and would probably not change the behavior of the most wealthy absentee owners.

The global ultrarich, theyre a strange breed  so far at the end of the income distribution curve that theyre essentially immune from such pressure, said Kath Scanlon, a housing expert at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Scanlon, who wrote one of the reports for the mayor, said she imagines that tripling property taxes for the well-to-do with empty homes will do little.

She called proposed bumps trivial for the owners. Its pocket change for them, Scanlon said.

Studies commissioned by the mayor revealed that the share of entirely empty homes in London overall is actually quite low  maybe 1 percent  and although 20,000 empty units sounds large, this is a city of almost 9 million residents.

Still, a lot of the most visible high-end empty property is in central London.

Ghost mansions and zombie penthouses were once a stealthy phenomenon, propelled by Saudi sheikhs and Russian oligarchs. Theyre still players.

But now an overseas investor for new property in London is more likely to be a middle-class family from China, Malaysia or Singapore, and they're not buying $25 million Georgian mansions, as former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg did  and then left it mostly empty, according to the Guardian newspaper.

Instead these foreign buyers from Singapore and Hong Kong are snapping up apartments worth less than $500,000, and most of the flats are quickly rented out, according to a pair of studies by the London School of Economics and the University of York.

[Britains housing crisis looms large as Grenfell fire survivors reckon with whats next]

London is struggling to increase the number of affordable homes in a highly politicized environment, where average mortals feel squeezed out of their own city by the moneyed classes and overseas buyers.

The inequalities were placed in stark relief after the devastating conflagration in June at Grenfell Tower, a 24-story public-housing building and a proven firetrap, where at least 80 people died.

Grenfell Tower is in Londons Kensington and Chelsea Borough  home to a high number of ghost mansions and a neighborhood of sharp contrast between rich and poor.

After the Grenfell fire, Labour politicians declared it was "simply unacceptable" that there were 1,652 empty homes in Kensington. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn suggested the properties could be "requisitioned if necessary."

It cant be acceptable that in London we have luxury buildings and luxury flats left empty as land banking for the future while the homeless and the poor look for somewhere to live, Corbyn said at the time.

On the streets, ordinary residents appear divided.

The St. George Wharf Tower is a gleaming, glassy 50-story apartment complex in London's Vauxhall neighborhood, singled out by the British news media as a vivid symbol of the empty-house crisis. More than half of the homes in the building are in foreign ownership, according to an investigation by the Guardian newspaper, and many are barely lived in.

Nearby residents werent surprised, nor did they seem to mind. Rich foreigners bought apartments that locals could not and brought money into the area. Taxing them wouldn't help solve Londons housing issue, they said.

Plus, there are upsides to living next to absentee neighbors.

I would shudder to imagine if this was running at 80 percent occupancy, said Suruchi Shukla, a 38-year-old consultant, with her head cranked skyward at the building.

James Hope, 50, a personal trainer who lives in the neighborhood, acknowledged that the low occupancy rates meant that local businesses were perhaps not as busy as they could be, but he dismissed Khans idea of slapping on new taxes.

Its really not a huge problem for me, he said, nodding toward the tower. Id much rather spend money on a nice old Victorian flat than on something thats like a hamster cage and costs a few million pounds. So, for me, its really not a problem.

Read more

Just a few more bongs for Big Ben before London bell is silenced for four years

Britain to test schools and hospitals after 75 out of 75 high-rise buildings fail fire safety tests

Londons lavishly high home prices take a Brexit hit

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
A revitalized Russian military on Monday sent tanks, paratroopers, artillery, antiaircraft weapons, jets and helicopters into frigid rains to engage the forces of a mock enemy called the "Western Coalition." The barrage of firepower , part of war games that began last week, was an explosive show of force that Baltic leaders said was a simulation of an attack against NATO forces in Eastern Europe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the field Monday, skipping the 72nd U.N. General Assembly in favor of the military exercises held jointly with Belarus. The muscle-flexing, which began Thursday, highlights the lethality of a fighting force that has taken a crash course of reforms and upgrades over the last decade.

In response, U.S. fighter jets in Lithuania have been scrambling nearly daily to inspect Russian activity over the Baltic Sea.

It gets your blood pumping, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Clinton Guenther, commander of a beefed-up NATO deployment of fighters in the Baltic country, said of the scrambling.

The Zapad war games  the word means "West" in Russian  focus on a hostile imaginary country called Veishnoria, which resembles a slice of the western part of Belarus with the biggest Catholic population and the highest prevalence of the Belarusan language. Veishnoria, along with two imaginary allies that appear to be stand-ins for the Baltics, attempts regime change in the Belarusan capital, Minsk, then foments separatism in parts of Belarus.



Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, left, and Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov, second right, watch a military exercise at a training ground at the Luzhsky Range, near St. Petersburg, Sept. 18. (Mikhail Klimentyev/AP)

The Baltic countries that would be on the front lines of any potential Western conflict with Russia say that the exercises are only nominally about separatism and are mainlyintended to leave them rattled.

Russia is still trying to demonstrate force and aggression in its relations to its neighbors, Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite said in an interview.

But deployments this year of about 4,000 NATO troops across the Baltics and Poland leave the region far more confident that Russia will hold back from direct military confrontation, she said.

We are prepared as never before. Its incomparable with 2009 or 2013, the years of the other most recent Western-facing exercises, she said. NATO deployed troops and further bolstered its military presence in the region after Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

[The enemy is clear in Russia and Belarus war games]

Moscow has insisted that the exercises would rehearse a strictly defensive scenario and involve no more than 12,700 troops, just below the level that would require Russia to allow NATO observers under an international agreement. NATO leaders have said that the exercise may actually involve up to 100,000 troops.

For Russia, the exercises are a chance to exhibit the new strength of its military, which has undergone a decade-long modernization and deeply desires to shed its reputation as the creaky, inefficient successor of the Soviet Red Army. Military officials sought to show the success of the exercises despite the adverse weather conditions.

Putin arrived by helicopter at the Luzhsky military training range on Monday afternoon to observe the exercises. He did not give public statements, but let Russias guns speak for him. If the yearly parade of Russian missiles and tanks on Victory Day in Red Square is a moment for pomp and circumstance, the Zapad war games are supposed to display the efficiency and strength of the renewed, and battle-tested, Russian military.

On Monday, the exercises began with the Russians launching a desperate defense: Tracer bullets sailed over a muddy field, while antiaircraft guns released salvos to down enemy drones and cruise missiles. Russia launched short-range ballistic missiles, naval forces and its newest Ka-52 attack helicopters. After repelling the invasion, the Russian forces launched a T-72-tank-led counteroffensive. (In the end, the Russians won.)

Military commanders said that 95 foreign representatives from 50 countries, including NATO member states, attended the exercises. They also sought to underline Russian aviations ability to maintain combat operations in poor weather, with two flights of four Sukhoi Su-24M bombers carrying out airstrikes in the driving rain.

"The strike on ground targets was complicated by weather conditions: heavy precipitation, low clouds, and strong gusts of wind," a Russian Defense Ministry report said. The planes dropped 250-kilogram high-

explosive fragmentation bombs. The pilots destroyed ground targets imitating infrastructure, fortifications and convoys of the simulated enemy, it said.

[What pro-democracy activists in Belarus fear most about the war games]

In the first phase of the exercises, which ended over the weekend, Russian and Belarusan forces defended civilian infrastructure from enemy cruise missiles in coordination with ground-based air defense. With the diversionary force defeated, Russia went on the offensive for phase two.

The top U.S. general in Europe said that NATO was being vigilant about the war games but that he had not seen anything that indicates it being anything other than an exercise.

In Tirana, Albania, Army Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, who is also the supreme allied commander of NATO, said he had seen no evidence that Russia might leave a force in the Baltic region after the exercises conclude.

Scaparrotti did say the exercises were larger than what they told us.

Its following in line with what weve seen with these annual exercises in the past. Theyre usually very large. Theyre usually initially defensive in nature but also have an offensive portion thereafter that looks to me like a rehearsal of an attack, Scaparrotti added. Thats worrisome if youre a NATO country on the border.

One Lithuanian army officer, Lt. Col. Linas Idzelis, said that some of his civilian friends considered planning vacations around the exercises, so that they would be outside the country in case of invasion. He said he told them they should not be concerned.

Putins arrival at the war games came as world leaders and diplomats gathered in New York for the U.N. General Assembly.

In recent months, the U.N. Security Council has seen angry confrontations between Russia and the United States over alleged hacking in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, as well as the international response to the North Korean nuclear program.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday that Putins absence was not a snub to the United Nations.

Indeed, this year the presidents schedule did not allow him to participate in the General Assembly session, and he does not take part every year. So theres nothing unusual in this case, Peskov said.

Birnbaum reported from Vilnius, Lithuania, and Roth reported from Moscow. Thomas Gibbons-Neff in Tirana contributed to this report.

Read more

Russia and Belarus launch war games

Putin is using the defeat of Hitler to show why Russia needs him

Fear and confidence in the face of Russian war games

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
A police officer stands outside a home in London on Monday as part of the investigation into last weeks subway attack. (Will Oliver/European Pressphoto Agency/EFE)

British media have reported the first details of two men arrested in connection with a crude  but potentially deadly  bomb that detonated in the London subway last week, injuring 30 people and reigniting fears of more terrorist attacks in Britain.

The Metropolitan Police have not yet released the names of the suspects, and no charges have been filed.

But British media reported that one of the men is Yahyah Farroukh, 21, whose social media pages suggest he is from Damascus, Syria. Farroukh was studying at a regional college in Britain and had traveled recently to the Middle East, the reports said.

Photographs in the Sun newspaper show a man reported to be Farroukh being detained by police outside a fried-chicken shop in west London on Saturday night. Officers are shown placing the mans arms and legs in plastic sleeves to protect possible evidence.

On his social media sites, Farroukh appears in ordinary selfies, showing him visiting London landmarks, including Big Ben.

[Gallery: London subway bombing scene]

On Sunday night, ITV News acquired closed-circuit images that purport to show a person walking with a shopping bag similar to one used in Fridays attack at the Parsons Green station. In the short video clip, the persons face cannot be seen as he strides, head down, clutching the bag.

The location of the surveillance video was close to one of two properties searched by British counterterrorism officers and forensic teams on Saturday.

One of the homes is in Sunbury, less than an hour west of central London, where a couple served as foster parents for many children, including refugees, over several decades. The now-elderly pair, Ronald and Penelope Jones, were honored in 2010 by Queen Elizabeth II for their care of children in need.

Neither the police nor British media have revealed the name of the other suspect arrested by police, an 18-year-old who was detained Saturday in the ferry port of Dover in southeastern England, where authorities suspect that he was seeking to board a boat out of the country.

Both men are being held for questioning under the Terrorism Act.

For strong investigative reasons, we will not give any more details on the man we arrested at this stage, Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner Neil Basu said earlier.

The Islamic State terrorist group asserted responsibility for the explosion. Experts cautioned that the group often claims attacks it may have only inspired, as well as ones in which it had no involvement.

The explosion rekindled debate about whether countries such as Britain have been tough enough in fighting terrorism. Just hours after the blast, President Trump suggested that Britain needed to be more proactive. Prime Minister Theresa May retorted that such comments were not helpful.

Read more:

London blast sends police and ambulances racing to subway station

London police arrest two in connection with subway attack

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
The State Department in Washington. John N. Tyes interest in whistleblowing came from a stint as section chief for Internet freedom in the State Departments Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. (Luis M. Alvarez/AP)

In a city filled with leakers, congressional committees with subpoena powers and investigative reporters, John N. Tye wants to make it easier to expose government wrongdoing without getting fired or breaking the law.

Tye, a former State Department whistleblower, and lawyer Mark S. Zaid have formed Whistleblower Aid, a nonprofit law office to help would-be tipsters in government and the military navigate the bureaucratic and legal morass involved in reporting governmental misdeeds.

Whistleblowing can be a challenge for people who have taken an oath of office to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic, Tye said in a telephone interview.

Then you get into government and you see something wrong, he said. Youve sworn to stop it, but there arent a lot of tools at your disposal, especially if its your supervisor whos breaking the law. People are scared. Theyre worried about their jobs. If it involves classified information, they can be criminally prosecuted.

Tye's interest in whistleblowing came from a stint as section chief for Internet freedom in the State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, from 2011 to 2014. He came forward as a whistleblower to publicize the government's electronic surveillance practices.He wrote about it in 2014 in a Washington Post opinion piece that he submitted to the State Department for approval. His quest to air his concerns cost him $13,000 in legal fees.

It is not entirely coincidental that Whistleblower Aid is being launched during the presidency of Donald Trump, whose 2016 campaign is under investigation for contacts with Russians.

We want to advise people what to do, whether its going to Congress, or an inspector general or Robert Mueller, Tye said when asked about the timing, referring to the general counsel handling the investigation.

This is not a partisan effort, he added. At the same time, yes, the rule of law starts with the office of the president. Like many other people, we are definitely concerned about things that are happening in the administration. The decision to fire [FBI Director] James Comey. The lack of transparency. A lot of people have questions about whether this administration respects the rule of law.

Tye says he will never divulge classified information he learned while at the State Department. If a whistleblower comes to Whistleblower Aid with classified information, he or she will be steered to investigators with security clearances and the power to do something about it.

Were not WikiLeaks, Tye said.

We provide legal advice and information to people who have sensitive information and want to explore their lawful options. Were not advising anyone how to leak anything.

Clients seeking that advice will not be charged. The firm is seeking donations from foundations and crowdsource funding to cover expenses.

Starting Monday, the start-up will be blitzing Washington to publicize its services with ads on Metro trains. It will have people on street corners handing out branded whistles. And throughout the week, two mobile billboards advertising Whistleblower Aid will spend 10 hours a day circling the White House, the Capitol, the Pentagon, the CIA and the National Security Agency to try to attract clients.

The organization has a website, WhistleblowerAid.org. But contacting it takes some forensic skills. To maintain security, it won't accept phone calls, text messages or emails, because someone in the government could be surveilling communication.

Instead, to reach someone at the organization, its necessary to install a special Tor browser that allows access to an encrypted, anonymous part of the Internet. Whistleblower Aid has two encrypted sites there.

Just dont call.
Two years ago, Khaled Tabanja was on the refugee trail, in desperate flight from his native Syria before finding safety in Germany, where Chancellor Angela Merkel opened the country's doors to Tabanja and more than a million others.

Today, the 26-year-old is on the campaign trail, arguing to anyone who will listen in this once-annihilated, now elegantly revived east German city that voters should choose Merkel's opponent in elections on Sunday.

Having left a country where participation in politics can get you arrested, tortured or killed, he is still coming to terms with his newfound freedom.

You cant even compare. Here theres democracy, said Tabanja  slim, hip, soft-spoken and still in the process of learning German. Even if you cant vote, you can say whatever you want. Even if youre a refugee, you can be active in politics.

But few are. In a campaign that has made refugees the subject of heated debate  much of it acidly negative  the approximately 1.4 million asylum seekers who have come to Germany since its last election four years ago are rarely heard from.



Khaled Tabanja, 26, came to Germany from his native Syria. He volunteers for the center-left Social Democrats ahead of German elections later this month and gives talks to fellow refugees about why they should support the party. (Griff Witte/The Washington Post)

Lacking citizenship, ineligible to vote and still struggling to find their place in a new land after leaving countries where the tension between autocratic leaders and oppressed citizens devolved into war, many say they have no appetite for politics or dont feel welcome.

[Hundreds of churches are trying to shelter refugees as police attempt to deport them]

Yet the question of whether the newcomers ultimately engage in German democracy could help determine whether they successfully integrate into society or remain consigned to the margins. Experts say that without an active political role, the wave of arrivals that swept Europe in late 2015 and early 2016 could be relegated to a long-term status as second-tier Germans.

That is true for previous generations of immigrants, who have long been underrepresented on the voting rolls, in party membership and among elected officials, said Tim Muller, a social scientist at the Berlin Institute for Integration and Migration Research.

Beginning in the 1960s, he said, Germany invited guest workers from Turkey and across southern Europe to fill a void in the labor market.

But thinking they would be here only temporarily, the state did little to make them feel they were part of German society. Decades later, Germany continues to struggle with how to integrate them  a pattern that officials insist cannot be repeated.

We now have the chance to learn from the mistakes of the past, said Dirk Hilbert, Dresdens mayor.



German Chancellor Angela Merkel campaigns in Freiburg, southwestern Germany, on Sept. 18. (Patrick Seeger/AFP/Getty Images)

This time, he said, policymakers have focused on ensuring that asylum seekers learn German, get jobs and avoid clustering in immigrant ghettos in particular cities, neighborhoods or buildings.

He also said they receive an education in the basics of German civics.

But in Mullers view, its not strong enough, and little attention has been paid to drawing refugees into German democracy.

The debate has focused on: How can we make sure that many of them will leave when the crisis is over?  he said. Its not, How can we make them citizens? 

[In Germany, Merkel welcomed hundreds of thousands of refugees. Now many are suing her government.]

The tone of this years election campaign has hardly been an enticement for the newcomers to get involved, with refugees discussed more as a threat or a burden than as an opportunity for an aging country that needs workers and youth.

While Merkel has defended her decision to allow the refugees to come, she has also said Germany will not be accepting large numbers of new arrivals again any time soon. She and her chief rival, Social Democratic Party (SPD) candidate Martin Schulz, agree that the pace of deportations needs to be accelerated among those whose asylum claims have been denied.

The party in third place, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), says that even those with legitimate asylum claims should be sent back, in part because the predominantly Muslim newcomers do not fit into German culture.

I dont think that people from Islamic countries are willing to integrate themselves and contribute to society here, said Anka Willms, an AfD candidate in Dresden.

The party frequently uses incendiary rhetoric to attack immigrants and their descendants; the party's deputy leader, Alexander Gauland, recently suggested that Aydan Ozoguz, the integration minister and one of the few nationally known politicians with an immigrant background, should be "disposed of" in Turkey.

In Tabanjas new home town, Dresden, the political climate for refugees has been particularly hostile.

[Germany has stopped caring about Brexit, and 4 other global stories]

Every Monday for the past three years, the anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant group Pegida has rallied in the city's center. The demonstrations once drew tens of thousands; they're now down to about 1,500, but they still reflect the depth of animosity among some in the city and the surrounding Saxon countryside.

Tabanja is aware of those sentiments. But he has also experienced a different side of Germanys response to refugees, one that inspired his political activism.

Soon after Tabanjas arrival in Germany after fleeing Syria, he and his partner were harassed for being gay by fellow asylum seekers at their shelter. Following pleas for help from authorities, they escaped via a red-haired German woman in her late 50s who took them into her rural home and told them they could stay.

It was a week before Tabanja learned that the woman was a prominent Social Democratic politician and the integration minister in the German state of Saxony.

It was an emergency, the minister, Petra Kopping, recalled of the decision she and her husband made to take in the two men. There wasnt much time.

Tabanja, who was used to hiding his sexual orientation from his family and the public, was surprised when he carefully told Kopping that his friend was his boyfriend, and she told him she already knew and that it was okay.

He couldnt imagine that its normal for us. He kept asking, Really? 

The first few nights at their new home, Tabanja and his partner barely went outside, worried about how they would be seen and treated by neighbors. But when Kopping invited them to come to political events run by her party, Tabanja decided to join.

When not working as a waiter or taking German lessons, he now volunteers for the SPD, working in its offices, handing out fliers and talking to fellow refugees about why he chose the party.

For Tabanja, it comes down to two issues: the SPD is supportive of refugees, and it backs gay rights, including the same-sex marriage bill that passed the German Parliament this summer.

But he stresses that he is not against Merkel, who is still revered among some refugees for allowing them into Germany and whose Christian Democrats (CDU) are the overwhelming favorite to come out on top in the Sept. 24 vote.

At a recent meeting of gay refugees in Dresden, Tabanja  his dark hair neatly coifed and his jeans artfully torn  stood beside a rainbow-flag-draped table and made his case for the SPD. Refugees, he said, should get involved in politics, even if they cannot vote, because their future in the country is at stake.

He also sought to assuage anxieties about what it means to be an opposition party in Germany, a concept that has no parallel in despotically governed Syria.

"Sometimes the SPD agrees with the CDU, and sometimes they don't," he said. "They're just different."

After half an hour of Tabanjas gentle persuasion, some said they remained skeptical of politicians and their promises. Were told we have all these rights here, said Souha Triki, a 20-year-old Tunisian who has been unable to secure asylum protection. But we dont.

Rabih, a burly Lebanese refugee who did not want his last name used because some of his family members do not know he is gay, said he was far more interested in fun, music and enjoying life in his adopted home than getting involved with the messy business of politics.

But having heard Tabanjas pitch, he said he would heed it out of gratitude to the country that had given him a fresh start.

Germany, he said, opened her arms for us.

luisa.beck@washpost.com

Read more

This German political party is a complete joke  literally

Obama is back on the campaign trail, in Germany. (Or at least his face is.)

As Germans prepare to vote, a mystery grows: Where are the Russians?

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
It was March 2020, and the world was closing down as the COVID-19 pandemic spread. At first, the news of...
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 18/09/2017 (1883 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ottawa is expected to pump $1.5 million over the next year into the first comprehensive diabetes-treatment program for foot care on Manitoba First Nations.

The first ever regional program designed for and delivered by Indigenous people in their own communities for the one of the most tragic complications of diabetes is expected to the subject of an official announcement Tuesday in Portage la Prairie.

The announcement is timed to coincide with the Nanaandawewigamig annual general meeting on the Long Plains urban reserve in Portage la Prairie at the Keeshkeemaguah Conference and Gaming Centre.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES A podiatry room in the Saul Sair Health Centre in the Siloam Mission.

A number of First Nations chiefs, including the provinces three grand chiefs, are expected to attend. No federal ministers are expected, however.

The size of the funding injection was called substantial, in a media advisory released Monday.

Rates of diabetes are three to five times higher for Indigenous Canadians compared to the general population. On some First Nations, 26 per cent of residents have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

Nerve damage from diabetes is thought to be the leading cause of amputation among indigenous Canadians. Circulatory problems also account for soaring rates of respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Nanaandawewigamig, the Manitoba First Nations Health and Social Secretariat, has lobbied Ottawa repeatedly to fill in gaps in care in the hopes of stabilizing diabetes and turning the tables on its devastating complications.

Ottawa has funded programs in the past, but never more than a few hundred-thousand dollars a year. That money has been funnelled through the University of Manitobas Northern Medical Unit, which Ottawa uses to supply fly-in doctors to the north.

In 2016, health-care experts with the secretariat asked Ottawa for more than $19 million over four years for diabetes-related foot-care clinics in all of Manitobas 60-plus First Nations communities. This past summer, federal health-care officials and First Nations diabetes advocates met over two days to put at least some of those dollars on the table and set up a plan to roll out services.

In Manitoba, nine First Nations have advanced programs in this specialized area, 21 others have basic services and the rest  34 communities, mostly in the north  have no services.

With the announcement, Ottawa is also expected to make the funding available for the first time through a First Nations-run agency. Nanaandawewigamig will work directly with Manitoba tribal councils to provide the services. First Nations that arent aligned with tribal councils will be provided with their own funding.

alexandra.paul@freepress.mb.ca
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 18/09/2017 (1883 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The path that Wab Kinew is walking just became incredibly steep.

Thats an odd thing to say about a man who just won a landslide victory to become the new leader of the Manitoba New Democratic Party. But thanks to a flurry of recent revelations about Kinews troubled life before he became a politician, this is no ordinary political narrative.

During the leadership campaign, added revelations about Kinews life came pouring into the public consciousness. He had admitted to many transgressions  alcoholism, assaults, offensive lyrics in his work as a rapper  in his best-selling book, The Reason You Walk. However, the arrival of allegations of theft and domestic assault has raised serious questions about his future.

PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Manitoba NDPs new leader, Wab Kinew, defeated Steve Ashton in a landslide. Questions about Kinews past could harm his party.

The new allegations have come in waves. First, it was revealed early in the campaign that Kinew had admitted things to the party during its vetting process that he had not included in the book, including the fact he had been accused of domestic assault. The charges from 2003 were stayed and the court file contains no documentation of the allegation or the reason why the Crown put the case into abeyance.

Then, late in the campaign, the woman involved in the case came forward. In an interview with The Canadian Press, she detailed an argument with Kinew that became violent. Tara Hart said Kinew grabbed her and threw her across a room, skidding on her knees across a rug. The rug burns, she said, were so bad she couldnt bend her knees the next day.

When the domestic assault case had first become public, Kinew insisted the allegation was baseless. When Hart spoke publicly, he continued to deny it.

And then, on the morning after his leadership victory, Free Press columnist Gordon Sinclair Jr. published interviews with Harts mother, Wendy Bird, and sister, Melanie Hart. In these interviews, a second domestic assault was detailed, this time involving an allegation that Kinew dragged Hart by the hair down a hallway, threatening to throw her off a balcony.

The spectre of a second domestic assault had lingered throughout the leadership campaign, in large part because the court file showed two separate charges. However, in her interview, Tara Hart had said she could only recall one assault and did not know why there were two charges.

Kinews supporters have remained steadfast in their belief that even with the new allegations, he is a powerful symbol of redemption, a good man who did bad things but then changed. However, even some of his closest allies acknowledge there is no more capacity to absorb new revelations.

Kinews leadership win will have many implications, both for the NDP and its rivals.

It is sure to revive a somewhat bruised and battered Progressive Conservative base. Premier Brian Pallisters first 18 months in government have been, at times, a hot, sloppy mess. His relentless drive to eliminate the budget deficit primarily through spending cuts has been painful and politically awkward.

The MLAs in the Tory caucus, particularly those who won close races in ridings formerly held by the NDP, worry about razor-thin margins becoming even thinner. Poll results show Pallisters Tories are slipping, particularly in seat-rich Winnipeg, and that most of the loss in support has been going to the NDP.

Kinews mere presence, and his increasingly complicated back story, will boost the spirits of those beleaguered Tory MLAs.

For Manitoba Liberals, there will be optimism as well. If Kinew sets the NDP cause back, then voters who would never cast a ballot for the Tories will likely be taking a long look at Grit options in the next election. The Liberals will select a new leader in late October and the winner may find that voters are desperate for an option other than the NDP and Tories.

After the infighting and dysfunction that culminated in the 2016 election loss, the NDP needed to make a positive step forward in this leadership campaign.

Few New Democrats thought the next election was winnable, but they certainly thought it was possible to claw back some of the seats they lost to the Tories. All that is further out of reach now.

In many ways, the Kinew storyline represents a lost opportunity for the province. Manitoba has not done a good job at encouraging and electing people of colour. In particular, it has been tough to create opportunities for Indigenous people to rise to the upper levels of party politics.

Kinews leadership was a chance to stress-test the Manitoba electorate, to see whether it would accept an Indigenous man as a serious contender to be premier. It seems increasingly unlikely that voters will be able to look beyond his troubled past  and in particular, the allegations of domestic abuse  to judge him objectively as a political leader.

In getting elected to the legislature and winning the NDP leadership, Kinew has already defied the odds; the allegations that have dogged him would have left most other politicians in ruin.

New Democrats will not have to wait long to assess the effect of Kinews leadership. Fundraising, an effective barometer of political fortunes, normally surges after a new leader is elected.

The Free Press, among others, will also be publishing poll results that will show whether Kinew has helped or hurt the partys overall standing. If the trendline on both of these start pointing downward, there will be few questions about the net Kinew effect.

Normally, every new leader gets one election to prove his or her worth. This is not a normal situation and Kinews ability to sustain his leadership long enough to fight the 2020 election is, at present, uncertain.

Right now, there are really only two likely storylines.

Kinew will either author one of the greatest political comebacks in this provinces political history.

Or, he will become an ugly footnote to one of the ugliest eras ever for the NDP.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 18/09/2017 (1883 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba government officials and politicians have recently made headlines with their interest in the Amazon request for proposal (RFP) for a new headquarters location that is promising to bring 50,000 jobs.

Amazon clearly tells us in its RFP that money will be the single most important element in separating the one winner from the more than 100 cities that have indicated they are interested. Incentives offered by the state/province will be significant factors in the decision-making process and that initial cost and ongoing cost of doing business are critical decision drivers. No other decision criteria are identified as significant or critical in the document.

Sure, Amazon mentions preferences such as quality of life, sustainability and thinking big and creatively, but dont be fooled  the decision will be solely about money, just as it is in almost every other RFP.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Premier Brian Pallister and Mayor Brian Bowman, with members of the Premiers Enterprise Team, discuss a Team Manitoba approach to make Winnipeg the home of Amazons second North American headquarters.

Regardless of my advice to clients that you should never respond to RFPs, the reality is that sometimes you must. If that is the case, my advice shifts to making good decisions about which RFPs to respond to. Lets use five simple questions about the RFP to determine whether Manitoba should respond to Amazon.

First, do we have the option of not responding? In this case we have the option to respond, or not respond, so lets play along and proceed to the next question.

Second, can Manitoba actually deliver what is being asked in the RFP? No. We cannot meet their criteria. One clear example is that Manitoba does not have direct flights to Seattle, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. There are several other examples, some of which could possibly be overcome, but many just cant. At this point, you would normally shift your business development time and money to other more suitable targets.

But lets assume somehow all hurdles can be overcome, and proceed to our third question: do we want Amazon in Manitoba? This can be argued from many perspectives. My perspective is that no community should hand over that much control to any single entity. It is much less risky, less costly and far more sustainable to target 50,000 jobs from 1,000 companies in a cluster of complementary industries. Yes, there will be positive effects from an Amazon presence, but Amazon has said those benefits must be heavily subsidized by the community. Small businesses create jobs and tax revenue without huge subsidies.

Lets assume we keep considering this RFP. The fourth question: can we win the RFP? Again, no. We can never match the subsidies that large U.S. groups will offer. The state of Mississippi recently offered US$600 million to land a Continental Tire plant that will create 2,500 jobs, with more incentives to follow. How much do you think they would offer for 50,000 jobs?

Remember that Amazon has told us upfront that to win this, a location will have to be the highest, or a very close second-highest, subsidy provider. We are not just talking about providing rebates on incremental taxes; Amazon also wants free land, grants for utilities, workforce grants, relocation cash and permit and fee rebates with no cap or time limit.

Our cool Prairie vibe and high standard of living are not going to make a difference if we are not the highest subsidy provider.

And the final question: does the new revenue we might win from Amazon justify the cost of submitting a proposal? In this case, a Manitoba proposal will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to assemble, largely in the form of government employee time, so spending that to potentially bring in tens of billions in new revenue does make sense.

Unless, of course, those billions in new revenue are so heavily subsidized that Manitoba ends up losing money on the deal, painting us into a corner of even greater Hydro rate increases, health-care premiums and civic development fees to pay for Amazon subsidies.

Manitoba, Ive seen this big RFP fever before, and it rarely ends well. My advice is to ditch Amazon and spend our time and effort helping the thousands of small businesses already working to build this community.

Cal Harrison is the president of Beyond Referrals, a Winnipeg business-development advisory firm, and QBS Canada, a business coalition that advocates the use of Quality Based Selection when hiring professional-services firms.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 18/09/2017 (1883 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Many Canadians think the recently proposed changes to the tax code are a money grab. But they could also be related to the changing face of work.

Just less than a year ago, Finance Minister Bill Morneau began warning Canadians about job churn. Also called precarious work by Morneau, its insecure and unprotected employment that often doesnt support a household.

More and more companies are foregoing hiring long-term employees in lieu of short-term contracts offered to freelancers. Companies prefer to get employees off their books to eliminate the costs of benefits and pensions. Theyre willing to pay more in short-term contracts to eliminate that risk.

In the new gig economy, precarious workers often rack up several short-term contracts to pay the bills. As a result, they often set up sole proprietorships or other forms of small business in part to pay for their benefits, long-term savings, etc.

This activity known as consulting was once the domain of white-collar workers (engineers, accountants, doctors, lawyers, psychologists, etc.). However, now many non-professionals are forced to form consultancies. Of course, this change is enabled by internet applications and the sharing economy, which can be a source of short-term work (think of Uber as an extreme example).

This is also leading to a predicted death (or at least dismemberment) of professions, as job churners can pass themselves off as able to do work that only professionals previously did.

Of course, forming a small business based on a series of short-term contracts has its benefits from a tax perspective.

Company profits are taxed at a lower rate (10 to 15 per cent) instead of up to 50 per cent for a regular wage earner. Savvy small-business owners use income sprinkling, distributing the companys profit as earnings to family members, who are taxed at a lower rate.

Remaining profits can be invested outside the business. Any revenues generated by these investments are capital gains that are also taxed at a lower rate.

While small-business owners argue that this ability to invest profits helps shore up companies through lean years, Morneau calls this and the other schemes above unfair tax dodges.

For years, the Canadian government has been turning a blind eye to the tax loopholes that small businesses have leveraged. This is because many of these tax dodges are practised by physicians and other professionals. Canada has always been at risk of losing these professionals to other jurisdictions, including the United States.

However, with the relatively unfriendly climate in the United States, the Liberal government thinks that now may be the time to tighten up Canadas small-business tax code, without fear of a massive brain drain. While this may be the case, there may be more to this.

Soon, half the Canadian workforce will be self-employed, compared with 20 per cent now. This means Canada is at risk of losing a considerable amount of its tax base. Compare a future 15 per cent tax rate for consultants to a 50 per cent tax rate for current wage earners.

While the government argues its unfair to tax wage earners at a higher rate than small business owners, changing work demographics may have more to do with it. Morneau simply wants to get in front of this parade. Of course, the U.S. climate is helping.

Consultancy was once limited to well-paid professionals but now, because of job churn, its being forced on working families.

The government needs to recognize that distinction needs to be made between highly paid professionals and people struggling to assemble short-term contracts, while protecting themselves with self-paid benefit plans and managing pseudo-pensions through investments outside the proprietorship.

Derrick Rancourt is a professor in the University of Calgarys Cumming School of Medicine, where he chairs the Graduate Science Educations Professional Development Taskforce.

 Troy Media
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 18/09/2017 (1883 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I want to be clear: people who make $50,000 a year should not pay higher taxes than people who make $250,000 a year, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared at the recent Liberal caucus retreat held in Kelowna, B.C.

He was defending his governments controversial plan to eliminate previous government-created tax advantages employed by incorporated small businesses, doctors, lawyers and other professionals. Doctors and lawyers making $300,000 a year, for instance, have been significantly able to reduce the amount of income tax they owe each year by having their private corporations pay their spouses and children. Its a practice referred to as income sprinkling and it was intended to offset the disadvantages of working for yourself and not having access to a company pension and benefits.

Whether this means, as Trudeau argues, that these high-earners in fact pay less in total taxes is debatable, since any money they receive from their corporations is taxed at the appropriate individual rate. In countering the vocal objections made by small business owners and professionals to the proposed tax revisions, Trudeaus declaration makes for a great sound bite and reinforces the Liberals image of themselves as the self-proclaimed champions of the downtrodden middle-class.

Sean Kilpatrick / The Canadian Press FILES Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shakes hands with Finance Minister Bill Morneau.

(For millions of middle-class Canadians, the much-publicized Liberal tax cuts that were instituted in 2016 have hardly been noticeable.)

Trudeau and Finance Minister Bill Morneau, however, have this issue backwards. The real problem is not that the worker making $50,000 might pay more income tax right now  approximately $13,000 in federal and provincial income taxes and at least another $8,000 more in municipal and indirect taxes, such as the GST and PST  than a professional making $250,000. But why is the person earning $50,000 working close to half the year to pay such high taxes? Moreover, why isnt everyone paying the lower corporate rate?

These are questions which Trudeau and Morneau do not dare ask, since they start from the premise that governments role is to tax and spend. As Conservative Ontario MP and former federal cabinet minister Lisa Raitt tweeted in response to a comment article Morneau wrote for the Globe and Mail defending his policies: No Bill  its about feeding the beast of government overspending that you created. Manage that and keep all taxes low.

Yes, taxes support health care, education, national security and other essentials. Yet they also sustain a massive government and bureaucratic structure (in 2012 the cost to taxpayers was $44 billion per year) and fund high interest-rate payments.

Millions more of taxpayer dollars are wasted on sheer ineptitude, such as the ongoing fiasco with the federal governments Phoenix pay system. As of May, the price to fix the broken system has risen to $402 million, $92.5 million more than the system originally cost, for a total outlay so far of $711.5 million. And there is no end in sight for this work to be completed. Less expensive, though just as illustrative of government inefficiency, are the millions which have been paid during the past 13 years to maintain the Kapyong Barracks while negotiations over the property proceed at a snails pace.

A hundred years ago, politicians were much less enthusiastic about income taxes. In the midst of the First World War, with expenses spiralling, Sir Thomas White, the Conservative finance minister, had borrowed as much money as he could and imposed on businesses an unpopular wartime profits tax. This still did not raise enough revenue, and at the end of July 1917, White reluctantly introduced the countrys first income tax, which was passed on Sept. 20.

It was not onerous; incomes below $1,500 a year or $3,000 for families were exempted. The tax rate was four per cent for anyone who was earning less than $10,000 and rose to 25 per cent for the small minority earning more than $100,000. Most Canadians  the annual salary of a railway worker, for example, was about $1,200  paid little or nothing.

The 1917 income tax act was intended to be a temporary wartime measure. But in the decades that followed, successive governments got hooked on tax revenue and the rates steadily rose. According to a 2014 report prepared by the Fraser Institute, in 1961, 33.5 per cent of family income went towards taxes; by 2014 that figure had increased to 41.8 per cent and it keeps on rising. The average Canadian family, the institute concluded, was shelling out more on taxes  federal, provincial and local, and indirect  than they do on food, shelter and clothing combined.

In his book about representative government published in 1861, British philosopher and political economist John Stuart Mill noted that the interest of the government is to tax heavily; that of the community is to be as little taxed as the necessary expenses of good government permit. Its a tug-of-war that persists to the present day. And no matter how Trudeau and Morneau spin it, the interest of the government continues to take precedence over the interest of the community.

Now & Then is a column in which historian Allan Levine puts the events of today in a historical context.
Holidaymakers evacuated as Typhoon Doksuri hits central Vietnam

The British Virgin islands have also been hit by the devastation of severe global weather

Holidaymakers are being evacuated as winds up to 200km per hour hit Central Vietnam, with Typhoon Doksuri damaging houses, roads and infrastructure.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued formal advice to passengers to liaise with airlines and consult local Vietnamese authorities, as the tropical cyclone continues to cause devastation on land.

'Strongest storm in a decade'

Citizens are being evacuated from towns in the region and local news sources are referring to the typhoon as the "strongest storm in a decade".

British nationals make over 200,000 visits to Vietnam each year, according to the FCDO website, with most visits being free from any problems.

According to Reuters, 46 flights have cancelled between Vietnam's capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

Nearly 80,000 people have been evacuated from Vietnam's northern coastal districts spanning five central provinces, including tourists. A further 210,000 are still to be moved to safety.

So far there have been no reports of casualties, however the severe weather has reportedly ripped roofs from houses and buildings, torn down trees and damaged electricity cables.

Vietnam is known to experience typhoons and the months May to October is known to be the country's rainy season.

Forecasters are warning that the severe weather could bring about flash floods and landslides across the country's northern and central regions.

Global weather warnings

Severe weather has plagues the globe over the last fortnight, with hurricane's Harvey, Irma and Jose causing devastation and mass travel cancellations on the south coast of America and the Caribbean islands.

Thousands of passengers have been grounded as a result of the storms, with Irma affecting as many as 10,000 flights to and from Florida - a popular favourite with British families, according to flight-tracking service FlightAware

Anyone with travel plans to an area prone to severe weather conditions can take out trusted travel insurance for added peace of mind.
The Pentagon is implementing a plan to expand and more heavily fortify Kabuls Green Zone, the section of Afghanistans capital where the American and other foreign embassies, NATO and other military headquarters, international organizations and government ministries are located.

This major project, reported by the New York Times Sunday, coincides with a major US escalation of the nearly 16-year-old war, and signals Washingtons intentions to maintain what is effectively a permanent occupation of the war-ravaged but strategically situated south Asian nation.

The Pentagon is reportedly sending another 4,000 troops into the conflict, the longest war in US history. This short-term response to escalating reversals for the security forces of the Afghan puppet government has been accompanied by the US militarys admission thatwith the complicity of the corporate mediait had long deliberately undercounted the number of US troops already in the country, with the real number exceeding 11,000, rather than the 8,400 previously reported.

President Donald Trump has maintained the pretense that he is keeping the exact numbers of troops to be sent into Afghanistan a secret, so as not to tip off the insurgency there, however, the real motive is to conceal the buildup as much as possible from the American people. Nonetheless, there are local reports of ceremonies marking the departure of some 6,000 US soldiers being sent from the 4th Infantry Division in Fort Carson, Colorado, along with an undisclosed number from the 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York.

There are no grounds for anticipating that the beefed-up force of 15,000 US troops will fundamentally shift the situation in Afghanistan, where the government has lost control of roughly 40 percent of the country to the Taliban, which is stronger than at any point since the October 2001 US invasion that drove the Islamist movement from power.

While it was previously said that the US-backed Afghan government was in firm control of nothing outside of Kabul, the Afghan capital itself has become the target of increasingly devastating attacks, suffering the largest number of casualties of any region in the country. The plan to more than double the size of the Green Zone, absorbing a nearby US military base, and bringing in the kind of heavy security and fortifications utilized in the Green Zone in Baghdad, Iraq is in part a response to a truck bomb attack last May that demolished the German Embassy and killed some 150 people.

The plan reportedly calls for the Green Zone to be expanded from its current 0.71 square miles to 1.8 square miles, with streets leading into the fortified district closed to all but official vehicles.

Pointing to the rhetoric of the Pentagon about a new strategy of a conditions-based withdrawal as well as Trumps bombastic speech last month vowing that his administration would push onward to victory in Afghanistan, the Times report acknowledges that the Trump administrations new strategy for Afghanistan is likely to keep the military in place well into the 2020s, even by the most conservative estimates.

Among the long-term military plans already on the books is the building of an Afghan Air Force, with the US set to pour some $6.5 billion into the effort between now and 2023.

These plans, along with the proposal for fortifying Kabul, pre-date Trump. As the Times reports, The process of turning Kabul into a fortress started before Mr. Trump took office, of coursesecurity measures were tightened and an obtrusive network of blast walls was established in some places years before President Barack Obama left office.

Aside from the escalation in the number of troops on the ground, the shift in US strategy is characterized above all by an increased use of firepower that will inevitably drive up Afghan civilian casualties, which already number more than 1,500 this year alone.

US B-52 bombers flying from Qatar have been staging increased numbers of airstrikes since March, while new artillery units are being sent into the country to shell districts under Taliban control. Trump, ceding control to the cabal of active-duty and retired generals who are setting his administrations foreign policy, has placed rules of engagement for US troops in the country entirely in the hands of local commanders, setting the stage for a sharp increase in the number of atrocities inflicted upon the Afghan people.

It has also been revealed that the Pentagon is working with the Afghan government on a scheme that would create a new irregular combat force by arming up to 20,000 civilian fighters to secure territory rested from insurgents. The plan appears to reprise earlier efforts to create the so-called Afghan Local Police (ALP), a force that placed effective local control in the hands of semi-criminal warlords who carried out killings of their opponents and extortion of local populations. The proposal is driven in large measure by the crisis gripping the Afghan security forces, which have suffered severe losses in terms of casualties as well as desertions.

In a further avenue in the escalation of the US killing in Afghanistan, the CIA has requested the Trump administrations approval to begin carrying out drone assassination strikes in Afghanistan for the first time. While the US intelligence agency was given free rein to wage a murderous drone campaign in northwestern Pakistans Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), near the Afghan border, killing and maiming thousands of civilians, until now, drone strikes in Afghanistan have been carried out by the US military. As opposed to the Pentagon, the CIA treats its drone strikes as covert operations, refusing to acknowledge them.

A decisive component of the shift in strategy initiated under Trump is a far more aggressive stance in relation to Pakistan, a nuclear-armed country of 190 million. The US president accused Pakistan of harboring criminals and terrorists, threatening retaliation, including a cutoff of aid.

On Friday, the US resumed its drone strikes against Pakistani territory, with one of its unmanned aerial vehicles reportedly firing missiles at a Taliban gathering in Kurram, part of the FATA region, killing three people and wounding two others.

Tensions between Washington and Islamabad were underscored by an interview in which Pakistans Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told the Wall Street Journal that the US was pursuing a folly, a strategy that has already failed in Afghanistan. He indicated that he would address the issue at this weeks opening session of the United Nations General Assembly, accusing Washington of relying on a militaristic policy, and insisting that only a negotiated settlement can end the war.

I think Americans should be more realistic and more pragmatic about their approach in Afghanistan, Asif told the Journal. They have already lost more than 40 percent of territory to the Taliban. How do you keep on fighting with them?

The deterioration of bilateral relations was made clear with Asifs calling off a previously planned trip to the US for talks with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and the Pakistani governments rejection of a planned visit to the country by the senior State Department officer for South and Central Asia.

While canceling meetings with US officials, Asif organized meetings with his counterparts in China, Iran and Turkey, stressing Pakistans agreement with the governments of these countries on the need for a political solution in Afghanistan. He also indicated his intention to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the UN session to coordinate Afghan policy with Russia.

Such initiatives, aimed at assuring Pakistans interests in any settlement of the Afghan war, particularly vis-a-vis its main regional rival, India, cut directly across the aims pursued by US imperialism in its decade and a half of brutal colonial war in Afghanistan. These include establishing a permanent US military presence in a country that borders both Iran and China, as well as the oil rich former Soviet republics of the Caspian Basin.

Washingtons response will likely include not only a further military escalation in the region, but also a further tilt toward India, heightening dangerous tensions between the two nuclear-armed powers in South Asia.
Teachers in Burlington, Vermont, are set to continue their strike Monday, walking picket lines at all nine city schools. The 400 teachers went out on strike Thursday after nine-hour negotiations Wednesday between a mediator, the citys Democratic mayor and the Burlington Education Association (BEA) broke down.

This is the first strike by teachers since 1978 in the states largest school district, which serves 4,000 students. Hundreds of teachers and their supporters rallied Sunday afternoon outside Burlington City Hall.

BEA President Fran Brock, a Burlington High School history teacher, said the union had not heard from the Burlington School Board on Friday. There are conversations going on, Brock told the Burlington Free Press, but she said those talks were happening with mediator Ira Lobel.

Burlington School District Spokesman Erik Wells wrote in news release: To meet for the sake of meeting, without the likelihood of success, would be counterproductive as it falsely raises community expectations.

While School Board Chairman Mark Porter claimed on Wednesday the district was offering an eight percent raise over three years, Brock disputed this. Because of Vermonts Act 85, all contracts will have to be renegotiated in two years, making the districts third-year offer of 2.75 percent moot.

For the second year in a row, the Burlington School Board unilaterally imposed a contract on teachers when their previous contract expired August 31. The boards current offer of a paltry 2.4 percent wage increase in the first year and 2.6 percent in the second would keep teachers in the bottom third of country earners.

In addition, teachers would be subject to sharply higher out-of-pocket health care costs, including a $1,200 family deductible. Teachers also strongly oppose the boards insistence that teachers continue to spend some of their time supervising students during recess and lunchtime, time teachers say is better spent preparing lesson plans, meeting with students and evaluating their progress. The BEA is calling on the district to hire additional adult staff to take over these functions.

More than 100 Burlington educators have resigned or been forcibly retired over the last 27 months. In particular, teachers are outraged over the districts dumping of 27 students with a variety of social and behavioral needs in a cafeteria with limited supervision along with 300 high school students enrolled in the standard curriculum. The district aims to save $130,000 a year through this ill-advised proposal.

Act 85, negotiated between the Vermont state legislature and Republican Governor Phil Scott, mandates a statewide claw-back of $8.5 million from school districts around the state this year and another $4.5 million in fiscal year 2019. The state is attempting to place the burden of an anticipated change in the cost of school employee health plans January 1 on the backs of teachers, other school workers, and students.

These savage cutbacks follow tens of millions in cuts to Vermont school spending by the states previous governor, Democrat Peter Shumlin. Burlington authorities are taking their cue from the profit-driven school reform policies advanced by Democrats and Republicans alike over the last quarter century.

Shumlin and Vermont Democrats built on the Obama administrations Race To The Top (RTTT) program, which followed George W. Bushs No Children Left Behind, tying federal school funding even more closely to test-based performance standards. The Democrats tactical difference has been to work more closely with the Vermont Education Association and other unions to implement cuts to public education.

Senator Bernie Sanders, the mayor of Burlington between 1981 and 1989, has issued no public statements on the strike. Sanders, who is trying to boost illusions in the Democratic Party, is no doubt concerned with the growing opposition of teachers to the bipartisan assault on public education and hopes the BEA can quickly wrap up the strike.

The attack by both big-business parties on teachers underscores the treachery of the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association, BEAs parent union, which are politically aligned with the Democratic Party. The unions have joined with state authorities in plans to dismantle of public education, expand charter schools, and impose contracts attacking teachers wages and working conditions.

Earlier this year, Governor Scott attempted to implement statewide health care negotiations for state workers, but his effort failed in the state legislature. Unions representing Vermont school employees, however, last month agreed to join state officials and school district leaders in a commission to study whether Vermont school employee health benefits should be negotiated statewide, rather than district-by-district. The outcome of such negotiations can only mean further cuts for school workers.

As of September 6, there were 59 settled school district contracts in Vermont, out of 142 bargaining groups, including support staff. Most school contracts in the state expired this summer. The South Burlington School Board voted August 29 to impose a contract on district teachers. While teachers rejected the imposed contract, the union has not called a strike.

Typical of the unions role in collaborating with school authorities to hold back the struggle of teachers, South Burlington Education Association spokesman Noah Everitt told the Free Press, We believe there is still an opportunity for us to come together. Milton and Chittenden Supervisory Union bargaining units also have unsettled contract negotiations, while teachers remain on the job.

The battle to defend and improve public education can only be carried out through a political counteroffensive by teachers and school workers against the bipartisan attack on education. The Democrats cannot be pushed to the left, as Sanders maintains.

The Socialist Equality Party urges teachers in Vermont to organize independent strike committees, controlled by rank-and-file educators, to carry out this fight. Subscribe to the World Socialist Web Site Teacher Newsletter today to follow the struggle of teachers nationwide and discuss this strategy.
Autoworkers struck the General Motors CAMI auto assembly plant outside of London, Ontario late Sunday night after the Unifor union and GM failed to reach agreement on a new three-year contract. The strike by 2,800 workers is the first at the assembly plant since 1992.

The walkout will all but halt production of GMs highly profitable Equinox SUV, which is only produced in smaller numbers at two other plants in Mexico. Workers at CAMI assembled more than 300,000 vehicles at the factory last year, making it one of the most productive and profitable in GMs system.

The strike will immediately hit production at GMs other operations, including an engine and transmission plant in St. Catharines, Ontario, that supplies CAMI, as well as suppliers that make components for the Equinox.

The walkout by CAMI workers is part of a growing wave of struggles by autoworkers around the world, including the 2015 rebellion by US autoworkers at Fiat Chrysler (FCA) and recent strikes by Korean GM workers, FCA workers in Serbia and VW workers in Slovakia. Last year, there was widespread opposition by rank-and-file workers to the concessions Unifor handed to the Detroit-based automakers.

Workers, who voted 99.8 percent for a strike last month, were quick to set up picket lines determined to recoup their losses from a series of concession contracts signed by Unifor and its predecessor, the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW). CAMI workers are forced to labour under a separate agreement than other Canadian autoworkers employed by GM, Ford and FCAand their factory has long been used to set a lower labour cost benchmark that the unions could then impose on other autoworkers.

The Equinox is GMs third top selling product in the United States and the fourth biggest seller in Canada. US sales of the Equinox, which retails for $US25,000$US35,000 per vehicle, were up 67 percent in August. For the past eight years the CAMI plant has been running all out with three shifts producing vehicles six days a week.

CAMI workers have endured a ten-year wage freeze, the imposition of a two-tier wages and benefits system, with a third tier of temporary part time workers added in. They face relentless speed-up and the decimation of any semblance of a grievance procedure on the shop floor. In the last contract Unifor abandoned defined benefit pensions for new hires at the CAMI plant, which was then extended to all Canadian autoworkers in 2016.

If Unifor was forced to call the strike it is because there is enormous opposition among rank-and-file workers to any further concessions. GM is sitting on an $18 billion cash hoard and funneling the profits it extracts from workers to pay billions in dividends and stock buybacks to enrich its top investors.

Plant Chairman Mike Van Boekel told reporters that the main unresolved issue in talks with the company was keeping production of the Equinox at the facility. We want a guarantee that the Equinox is not leaving and GM will not do it, he stated. We want a guarantee that we are the lead plant.

GM officials refused to designate CAMI as the lead plant for future Equinox production, union officials said, and offered investment of $60 million, compared to $400 million earmarked for a plant in Oshawa, Ontario, during contract talks last year.

Whatever jobs promise GM makes will not worth the paper it is written on. Instead, Unifor, like its counterpart in the United States, the United Auto Workers (UAW) has always used claims of securing new investments to justify further wage, benefit and working condition concessions. Indeed, last February, after GMs announcement of 625 job cuts at CAMI, Van Boekel told workers, Let me be clear, we are not going to put ourselves on a pedestal and price ourselves out of jobs and people need to look at the big picture.

Last February, GM announced it was moving production of its Terrain model to Mexico. Unifor did nothing to oppose the destruction of jobs. The union rejects out of hand any fight to unify Canadian, US and Mexican workers in a common struggle to defend jobs against the global automakers. Instead Unifor, along with the UAW, are peddling the claim that the Trudeau government and the billionaire president in the United States, Donald Trump, will renegotiate the NAFTA agreement to favor the interests of workers in Canada and the US.

The promotion of economic nationalism by the Canadian and US unions has never saved a single job. On the contrary it has served to drive a wedge between North American workers and justify the relentless attacks on workers jobs and living standards in the name of saving Canadian or American jobs. Both unions accepted massive concessions during the 2009 restructuring of GM and Chrysler.

Thanks to flexible contracts with the UAW that include two-tier wage systems and profit-sharing payments instead of fixed raises GM's US hourly worker labour cost fell to $US5 billion in 2015 compared with about $US16 billion in 2005. Unifor has granted similar concessions.

Unifor officials have sought to silence opposition and brand as disloyal any opposition to its collaboration with management. If this struggle is not to be defeated, then rank-and-file workers must take over the conduct of the strike, block every effort to shut it down and impose a sellout deal, and fight to broaden the struggle throughout the Canadian, US and Mexican auto industry.

The WSWS will offer CAMI workers every assistance possible for this critical battle.
According to documents released Wednesday by the Intercept, the National Security Agency (NSA) has established an elaborate network of spy facilities in Ethiopia.

The documents, acquired from the trove made public by Edward Snowden in 2013, reveal that the NSAs Ethiopian operation dubbed Lions Pride encompasses a surveillance effort by Washington over East Africa of enormous magnitude. The secret programs broad operational components include not only spying and eavesdropping, such as the indiscriminate gathering up of phone calls, e-mails, and Internet traffic in multiple countries, but also comprises a program of cyber warfare and the infection of networks and computers with spyware.

The program set up by the NSA in Ethiopia is strongly suspected to have utilized FinSpy, a software product marketed by the company Finfisher, that allows the user to hijack other computers by e-mailing the target an infected attachment file. This enables the FinSpy user to steal passwords remotely, from the targets Internet browser, e-mail, and even administration passwords. Essentially, the user of this software can take total control of another computer without the target being aware.

The Deployed Signals Intelligence Operations Center was set up by the NSA in 2002 in Ethiopias capital city, Addis Ababa, as part of Washingtons war on terror in the aftermath of 9/11. According to the document, the spying operation began as a small outpost, employing only twelve Ethiopian officials.

By 2005, the program had expanded its reach and influence to include an additional three remote branches around the country, including one in Gondar, a province in northwestern Ethiopia. The program also expanded its operations to include the eavesdropping on communications in Sudan, Somalia and Yemen.

The spying operations established by Washington in Ethiopia are a key element of the broader drive by imperialist strategists to assert US dominance over the region and the Horn of Africa.

The Ethiopian program functions as a subset of the worldwide operational effort of the NSAs vast anti-democratic architecture that has stretched its tentacles into Internet and communications networks across the planet.

Illustrating the close relationship Washington has cultivated with the government of Ethiopia with the introduction of the NSA program, the documents cite a report written in 2005 by Katie Pierce, who was the officer-in-charge of Lions Pride in Ethiopia, [The] NSA has an advantage when dealing with the Global War on Terrorism in the Horn of Africa.

Pierce describes the mutually beneficial relationship between the US and Ethiopia, writing, The benefit of this relationship is that the Ethiopians provide the location and linguists and we provide the technology and training.

The establishment of such a blatantly anti-democratic operation in Ethiopia, a country with a history of grave human rights abuses, including extra-judicial murder and torture, corresponds with Washingtons lawless methods in striving for total dominance over the Horn of Africa.

Between 2015 and 2016, during a wave of anti-government demonstrations in Ethiopia, more than 500 protesters were gunned down by security forces, while many others were arrested and beaten. Teargas was used by police indiscriminately to disperse the demonstrations.

In October, attempting to quell the protests, the government of Hailemariam Desalegn imposed a nationwide state of emergency and assumed sweeping draconian powerswhich included restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly and granting the police extra-legal powers to detain anyone without cause.

Exposing the true nature of the governments claim of fighting terrorism, media outlets critical of the government were shut down under the pretext of promoting violence and disorder.

In May, elucidating Washingtons imperialist aims for Ethiopia, the US State Department stated on the US Embassy in Ethiopias web site: The U.S. Embassy engages with the Ethiopian government to improve the business climate, create a level playing field for all investors, and to foster an entrepreneurship culture. There are growing opportunities for U.S. trade and investment, particularly in manufacturing, energy, and agricultural processing.

The NSA program in Ethiopia began after September 11, 2001, when Washington commenced its so-called war on terror. Long before the 2001 attacks, Washington regarded the Horn of Africa as a geo-strategic target because the region fronts the main waterway for the worlds oil traffic originating from the Middle East through the Red Sea. In more recent years, the struggle for hegemony has unfolded as part of US imperialisms rivalry with Chinese influence in Africa.

The chaotic state of Somalia, itself the result of decades of US imperialist intervention, has long been an obstacle to Washingtons aims for the region, beginning with the fall of the Mohamed Siad Barre dictatorship in 1991, which precipitated Somalias plunge into complete disarray, with various warring factions battling for power. The destruction of Somalian society has had a grave impact on the masses, and fueled the rise of the islamist militant organization Al-Shabaab.

Backed by the US, Ethiopian forces in 2006 invaded and occupied Somalia to neutralize the Council of Islamic Courts (CIC), when the Somali Islamist organization staged a political rebellion against the US-backed Transitional Federal Government (TFG) in Mogadishu.

According to Human Rights Watch, Ethiopia carried out grave atrocities during the invasion and ensuing occupation, including indiscriminate killings and torture.

Another NSA document divulged by Snowden dated from 2007 reveals that the agency praised Ethiopias invasion of Somalia. Ethiopian invasion of Somalia plays to the advantage of US counter-terrorism forces, it stated.

The document goes on to detail that the NSA provided Ethiopian forces with the agencys Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) efforts against the CIC, including reports of its troop movements and communications.

Coordinating its intelligence-sharing with the CIA and the US military in Djibouti, the NSA boasted that its program paid off handsomely and that Ethiopia easily defeated the CIC. The document also boasted of the killing of two unnamed so-called leaders of Al-Qaeda by Ethiopian forces, owing to the effectiveness of the intelligence provided by the NSA program.

The US support has propped up an oppressive regime representing a narrow ruling elite against the Ethiopian masses, who experience immense social misery. More than half of the population lives in poverty, surviving on less than $2 per day.

Illustrating the stark contrast of the social position of the masses to that of the small layer of the ruling elite sitting atop Ethiopian society is the fact that ten of these individuals collectively possess more than $25 billion.

Making clear the Ethiopian masses are the principal target of the NSA program is the revelation that the ruling Desalegn government has used the program against internal political enemies and dissidents.

Felix Horne, a senior researcher for Human Rights Watch, told the Intercept, The Ethiopian government uses surveillance not only to fight terrorism and crime, but as a key tactic in its abusive efforts to silence dissenting voices in-country. Essentially anyone that opposes or expresses dissent against the government is considered to be an anti-peace element or a terrorist.

Under conditions of continual decline in its living standards, fueling a rise in mass social anger, the increasingly restive population is perceived by the establishment as a threat to be crushed.
South Korea is assembling an assassination unit to be activated by the end of the year, according to Defense Minister Song Young-mu. It is being trained by the US military to be able to murder North Korean leader Kim Jong-un as well as other high-ranking figures in Pyongyang. The move is part of an overall agenda in Washington and Seoul to expand plans for war against the impoverished state.

The decision to roll out the hit squad is particularly chilling given South Korean President Moon Jae-ins comments on Friday following North Koreas test firing of another ballistic missile. Moon responded by ruling out talks with Pyongyang saying, In a situation like this, dialogue is impossible. He then warned that South Korea has the power that can destroy the North beyond any recovery.

The assassination unit is just one aspect of the preparations for war with North Korea. Defense Minister Song told the National Assemblys defense committee on September 4, We are in the process of conceptualizing the plan. I believe we can create the unit by December 1. The assassination squad would also be tasked with carrying out nighttime raids across the Demilitarized Zone, separating the two Koreas.

The same US Navy Seals team that murdered Osama bin Laden in 2011 is working to train the new unit. This US Seal Team 6 took part in this years massive Foal Eagle/Key Resolve war games, conducted by the US and South Korea each spring. It was the first time it had been involved in the exercises, during which, it practiced assassinating Kim Jong-un.

Seoul and Washington are openly discussing the murder of a countrys head of state, though claiming it is only meant to scare Pyongyang or be used in the event of war. However, influential former government figures are openly calling for Kims assassination. Nam Seong-uk, a professor at Korea University and former leading official in the National Intelligence Service (NIS) told a meeting of members of the right-wing Liberty Korea Party two weeks ago that, The problem will not be resolved unless Kim Jong-un is eliminated.

The assassination squad is part of the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) program. It divides Pyongyang into different sectors to be destroyed in a barrage of missiles supposedly if North Korea shows any signs of attacking. The hit team would then infiltrate and kill any top regime officials who survived. The key to the KMPR is its implementation at any signs of an attack, making it a part of a wider preparation for preemptive war.

South Korea demonstrated its KMPR system in its response to Pyongyangs missile test on Friday. The military launched two Hyunmoo-2A ballistic missiles only six minutes after the Norths launch. Both landed in the Sea of Japan but only one accurately hit its designated target. After signs of the Norths missile test were reported to Moon on Thursday, The president, without taking anything else into consideration, approved the firing of Hyunmoo missiles upon North Korea's missile provocation, a government source stated.

A second system, known as the Kill Chain, has similarly been designed to launch preemptive attacks on North Korean military positions. The third system being put in place is called the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD), which can supposedly track and shoot down an incoming missile.

The KMPR program is not new. It was announced, along with its hit squad, last September following North Koreas 5th nuclear test, by the Park Geun-hye government. President Moon, who postured as an opponent of military escalation and promised to engage Pyongyang in dialogue, is continuing the program.

In fact, South Korea is accelerating its war drive as the USs Trump administration continues to ramp up tensions and threats. Seoul has already reached an agreement with Washington to remove the limit on the war head weight on its ballistic missiles while also agreeing to the full deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery.

Moon is planning to increase South Koreas military budget to 2.9 percent of gross domestic product during the course of his term, up from 2.4 percent. Trump also stated in a Tweet that he would allow South Korea and Japan to purchase substantially larger amounts of military equipment from the US.

The overall joint US-South Korea war strategy is known as Operations Plan (OPLAN) 5015. First adopted in 2015, it instituted a far more aggressive posture, including plans for decapitation raids on North Korean officials. It served as the basis for the springtime Foal Eagle/Key Resolve exercises as well as the Ulchi Freedom Guardian drills conducted last August. Seouls KMPR plan is designed to carry out OPLAN.

Even if one takes at face value South Koreas claims that these programs are defensive, they greatly heighten the danger of war. In its article on the assassination squad, the New York Times admitted, [T]he potential consequences of accurate detection [of a North Korean attack] are huge. Miscalculation could prompt an unwarranted preemptive strike, which could start a regional nuclear war.

Such a war would be catastrophic. As chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff , General Joseph Dunford stated in July, a war would be horrific, and it would be a loss of life unlike any we have experienced in our lifetimes, and I mean anyone whos been alive since World War II has never seen the loss of life that could occur if theres a conflict on the Korean Peninsula.

At the same time, there is no reason to believe that South Korea or the US would not try to assassinate Kim Jong-un or conduct some other clandestine operation to goad the North into firing the opening shots. The Asahi Shimbun reported on June 26 that former President Park Geun-hye had signed off on a plan to remove Kim following an unsuccessful meeting of officials from the two Koreas in December 2015. Citing an anonymous source, the paper stated the plan included the possibility for Kims forced exile, retirement, or assassination.

Pyongyang made unsubstantiated claims in May that the USs Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the NIS in 2014 bribed a North Korean lumber worker in Russia to carry out the assassination of Kim. Given the tensions and the regimes own nervousness over a US-South Korean attack, even a minor incident or accident in Pyongyang involving a leading figure could be interpreted as an act of war.
More than one week after southern Mexico and Guatemala were hit at midnight by an 8.2 earthquake, the strongest in almost a century, food and basic supplies are still scarce in the affected areas, efforts to find victims continue and thousands are sleeping on the streets after losing their homes.

The official death toll currently stands at 98, and the state governments have reported 80,000 damaged homes, along with 1,000 schools, and 96 health facilities. While the total number of people in need of aid has climbed to 2.5 million, the damage and casualties were heavily concentrated in the most impoverished areas of the two poorest states of the country, Oaxaca and Chiapas. Guatemala suffered no casualties, but 605 homes were reported damaged.

Just as with Hurricane Harvey a week earlier in southeast Texas and Hurricane Irma at the same time in the Caribbean and later in Florida, the historic earthquake in Mexico has exposed conditions of staggering inequality, deteriorated social infrastructure and corrupt negligence on the part of the ruling elites.

The deteriorated state of relations between the US and Mexican governments was also made visible. On Tuesday, the Mexican Foreign Ministry cancelled the sending of a convoy of food and medical aid to the areas affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas in order to direct those resources to the areas impacted by the earthquake.

The Mexican ministry further indicated that the US had not responded to their formal offer of aid after a week, while Trump waited a full week to offer condolences for the losses inflicted by the devastating earthquake. He spoke to President Enrique Pena Nieto only on Thursday, claiming he could not do so earlier because of problems with cell phone reception.

This response was in line with his administrations America First program, threatening to terminate NAFTA and force Mexico to pay for a border wall. Moreover, the Mexican foreign minister had complained last week that thousands of its citizens will be potentially affected by the decision to revoke the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Under these conditions of perceived animosity toward Latin Americas second largest economy and Washingtons top military partner in the region, next to Colombia, US Defense Secretary James Mattis, travel to Mexico City to attend the Independence Day festivities over the weekend. Despite the guise of aid and solidarity, many Mexicans will appropriately perceive that the fifth-ever visit of the Pentagon chief to the country is intended to remind Mexicos comprador elite of their semi-colonial status and commitments to US security demands.

It was also announced yesterday that the tropical storm Norma is approaching the Pacific coast of Mexico threatening Baja California with high winds and heavy rains.

This storm comes shortly after yet another hurricane hit the state of Veracruz along the Atlantic coast last Friday, leaving seventy thousand people without electricity and two dead from a mudslide.

On Wednesday, the President Pena Nieto travelled to Oaxaca and set off a wave of indignation after he asked respectfully that the media not act as indicators or critics of what is missing, but be part of the solution.

This was merely the final the drop of cynicism that caused the glass to overflow. A series of denunciations followed in the bourgeois press, led by the conservative El Universal. A column by Carlos Loret de Mola warns that the deadly 1985 earthquake provoked the formation of the political organizations that fed militants into the nascent PRD, referring to the Party of Democratic Revolution. He concludes his piece abruptly: Lets see what sprouts out of the earthquake politically speaking.

This uneasiness goes beyond fears that the earthquake will affect the ruling party in the general elections next year or that it will lead to the formation of other right-wing, nationalist organizations like PRD and its offspring Morena. What preoccupies the ruling class the most is that its criminal negligence exposed by the earthquake leads to the independent mobilization of the working class, leading the peasant and impoverished masses against the governments agenda of militarization and austerity diktats from Wall Street and the City of London.

Only eight months ago, workers carried out mass demonstrations all across the country in response to a 20 percent gas price hike or gasolinazo as part of the governments energy privatization scheme. Already, the earthquake has been trailed by bold acts of protest in southwest Mexico.

Last Tuesday, about 200 peasants in Tapachula, Chiapas, calling for running water, electricity, street maintenance and security, clashed with the police, which responded with beatings, tear gas, and at least a dozen arrests. The next day, protesting the disappearances of their classmates in 2014, 60 teacher students or normalistas from Ayotzinapa seized a bus, a tanker truck with fuel, and other vehicles, and allegedly kidnapped four police officials. The Guerrero police fired live rounds at their caravan, intercepted it and arrested twelve students.

Last week, expert in disaster management and geologist Nieves Sanchez Guitian declared that, unlike the 8.1 earthquake in 1985 that killed tens of thousands, the recent one was off the coast and twice as deep. Nonetheless, she concluded that, after 32 years, the key to escape the cycle in which poverty leads to more poverty with a catastrophe remains the same, technical preparedness and prevention.

The hardest-hit states have been long recognized as the poorest of the country. According to the National Council of Evaluation of Social Policies (Coneval), only 7.4 of the population in Oaxaca is not considered poor or vulnerable, compared to 10.3 percent in 2012. In Chiapas, this figure is 6.4 percent. This is in a country in which 1 percent of Mexicans own one third of the countrys wealth.

Juchitan de Zaragoza, one of the two poorest districts of Oaxaca with over half of the population people living below official extreme poverty, was the most affected. Thirty-six people died and about one-third of its homes were fully destroyed. The mayor complained that assistance is lacking and that there is no close coordination with the government.

The newspaper La Jornada reported that the distribution of food, medicines, clothes, and personal items has depended on the initiative of neighbors, families and friends. A painter, Francisco Toledo, organized the establishment of 20 community kitchens, while a retired teacher Virginia Lopez delivers food to the thousands sleeping on the streets.

Those affected have not received any provisions, says Lopez, while the government announced that it is deploying over 4,000 military officials presumably to help with the distribution. A peasant in Ixtepec told EFE: The Army is not supporting us, it only goes by like a parade. What is required from them is help to remove the debris.

A 2015 study by the Inter-American Development Bank found that Mexico already dedicates a lower percentage of its GDP to social infrastructure than any other Latin American country. Nonetheless, the governments response to the disaster has centered around tax breaks and loans to small business ostensibly to accelerate the reactivation of the economy in Chiapas and Oaxaca.

Tellingly, the Wall Street credit agency Moodys discarded offhand that the official response will go beyond meager economic aid to affected families under the natural disaster fund Fonden, noting simply that the economic cost of the disaster will be limited.
On September 4, the biggest naval contingent to leave Sydney Harbour for at least three decades departed for a three-month expedition throughout the Indo-Pacific region, headed by HMAS Adelaide, one of the countrys two recently-acquired amphibious assault ship helicopter carriers.

Without any public consultation, the Turnbull Liberal-National government has launched a major naval display of force. It takes place amid the rising regional tensions generated by the escalating US threats and military build-up against China, particularly over North Korea and Beijings territorial claims in the South China Sea.

While seeking to assert Australian imperialisms own predatory interests in the region, the mission is unmistakeably designed to reinforce the aggressive anti-Chinese drive by Washington, on whose power the Australian ruling class has relied since World War II to pursue its regional hegemony.

By November 26, the task force group, labelled Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017, will have conducted exercises with military forces from Australias key regional partners. These include the US, Brunei, Cambodia, the Federated States of Micronesia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand and East Timor.

The flagship, HMAS Adelaide, will be accompanied at various stages of the deployment by four guided missile frigatesHMAS Melbourne, HMAS Darwin, HMAS Toowoomba and HMAS Parramatta, and a fuel tanker, HMAS Sirius. More than 1,200 naval, army, airforce and civilian personnel will participate.

In an official statement, Defence Minister Marise Payne emphasised it was the biggest coordinated task group deployment since the early 1980s. There was little coverage in the corporate media, however, which is continuing a pattern of covering up or downplaying Australias preparations for war. The entire establishment is acutely aware of the widespread popular opposition to the escalating militarism.

For similar reasons, Payne sought to portray the expedition as innocuous. She said activities like Indo-Pacific Endeavour generated personal relationships, shared experiences and common understanding with our regional partners that could be crucial to success in times of uncertainty or crisis.

Nevertheless, Payne directly linked the mission to key phrases used by Washington to accuse China of lawlessness, aggression and expansionism. Maintaining the rule of law and respecting the sovereignty of nations large and small is fundamental to continued peace and stability in our region, she said.

Payne did not specify whether the exercises would include provocative freedom of navigation intrusions into the 12-nautical-mile territorial zones around fortified Chinese reefs. But she did refer specifically to exhibiting Australias war-fighting capacity.

The Joint Task Group will demonstrate the ADFs [Australian Defence Force] ability to operate across the full spectrum of military operations, from high-end military capabilities such as anti-submarine warfare to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, Payne said.

The defence minister announced the mission just before travelling to South Korea, where she indicated Canberras readiness to again join a US-led war on the Korean peninsula, as it did during the 1950-53 Korean War.

Payne then went to the Philippines to announce that more Australian Special Forces troops would be sent to the southern province of Mindanao, under the guise of combatting alleged Islamic State-linked fighters. Australian participation was requested by Washington to pressure Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to step back from forging closer ties to China.

As if to reinforce the message, the Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017 task forces first international engagement activity, announced on September 8, was to conduct aviation training with the USS Bonhomme Richard, a large amphibious assault ship aircraft carrier, off the east coast of Australia. In a media release, Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017 commander Captain Jonathan Earley said: Successful activities like this highlight the continued enhancement of interoperability between the two militaries.

The expedition has not gone unnoticed in Beijing. A comment in the People  s Daily, the governments premier media outlet, accused Australia of seeking to encircle China. Excluding Vietnam, the Australian Army fleet will visit almost all countries across the South China Sea and the East China Sea that surround China, the article noted. What does it mean that Australias military exercise route is encircling China?

Australia was conducting the exercises to assist the US, the article commented. It quoted a Chinese Academy of Social Sciences academic, Gao Cheng, who agreed with a recent Chinese media cartoon ridiculing Australia as a loudspeaker set up in the Asia Pacific by a US radio station. It works very hard and is very proud, but it is becoming more and more like noise in the area, the article asserted.

Gao further pointed out that Australia belongs to the first echelon in the Asia-Pacific region in its support for the United States, the article reported. It often acts as the assistant police for the United States in the region.

The Beijing regime is using the aggressive conduct of the Trump administration, and the frontline support given to it by the Australian ruling class, to whip up nationalist sentiment for its own repressive domestic political purposes. In doing so, it is also playing into Washingtons war-mongering hands and dividing Chinese workers from their fellow workers in America and Australia.

At the same time, Beijing is making a pitch to elements within the Australian political establishment who reflect the interests of sections of business that depend heavily on China economically, particularly as an export market.

The commentary observed: The United States is Australias most important ally. China is Australias most important trading partner. Australia faces a tough problem trying to balance between these two, but time has proven that, as a hardcore ally of the US, it is difficult for Australia to get rid of the United States political influence.

It is not an accident that the Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2017 war games follow a succession of visits to Australia this year by high-ranking US political and military-intelligence figures, notably Senate Armed Services chairman John McCain, Vice President Mike Spence and former National Intelligence director James Clapper. Their blunt warning to the Turnbull government and the entire parliamentary elite was not to bet against America, regardless of public hostility toward the Trump administration.

This line was reinforced this week, when Dennis Richardson, a former Australian intelligence chief, head of the defence and foreign affairs departments and ambassador to the US, delivered a speech in Washington. At a forum conducted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Pentagon-linked think tank, Richardson warned against using President Donald Trumps unpopularity to strip away credibility and confidence in an alliance that he described as the bedrock of Australias national security.

Richardsons remarks were highlighted in a September 14 editorial in Rupert Murdochs Australian, which declared that any political figure who called for distance from the Trump administration would do well to heed Mr Richardsons trenchant defence of the alliance and the access it provides to the Five Eyes strategic intelligence network.

Not a word of criticism of the naval expedition has been uttered by any member of the political establishment, not least Labor or the Greens, which were in the forefront of support for the Obama administrations military and strategic pivot to Asia, directed against Chinaa turn now being intensified by the Trump White House.
In Greece, the parliamentary summer break is over, and in the weeks and months ahead, a new round of cuts will begin, which will inevitably lead to fierce class battles.

On Monday, representatives of the troikaEuropean Commission, European Central Bank, International Monetary Fundreturned to the country to check on the progress of the governments austerity measures.

Tsipras faces a hot autumn, was the headline of a leading German business daily Handelsblatt in its August weekend edition. The government of the pseudo-left Syriza (Coalition of the Radical Left), under Prime Minister Tsipras, has been tasked to carry through a further 113 reforms and austerity measures by August 2018, which were agreed with the countrys international creditors. Only then will Greece be provided with the financial means it needs to pay its debts.

Tsipras has promised to push through 90 different cuts by the end of the year. Further social cuts, limitations on the right to strike, stricter controls on hiring public sector workers and the implementation of a series of privatizations, represent just a few of the attacks that the working class will face.

Tsipras is preparing for his hot autumn and seeking solidarity from the European and international bourgeoisie. Last weekend, he used the annual trade fair in Thessaloniki, Greeces second-largest city, to tout Greece as a haven for foreign capital and a reliable partner for the geo-political interests of the great powers. The fair attracts entrepreneurs and bankers from all over the world; this time there were more than in previous years, mainly from the host country, China.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Thessaloniki for rallies and protests against the business summit, which was protected by about 4,000 officers from special police units.

In his opening speech, Tsipras kowtowed before the international financial and business elite. No one could deny the enormous interest from investors in our country, he enthused. Greeces image had fundamentally changed in recent years, for the positive. He then forecast a growth in Gross Domestic Product of almost 2 percent for 2017.

Based on current economic data from the Greek statistics authority (Elsat), the prime minister calculated that Syriza had transformed the country into an economic paradise for foreign investors, and resorted to a clumsy play on words, declaring that the country had gone from Grexit to Grinvest.

This had only been possible, he said, through the winning back of international recognition and Greeces geo-political position. These important steps included the recent visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, the visit of former US President Barack Obama and the Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as his own visits to China. In this way, Greece had once more become a strategic partner for significant international economic powers.

Tsipras went on to boast, Even if some still condemn us as enemies of business, we have developed very concrete initiatives and carried these through on the way to improving the business climate. For example, 11,000 businesses had benefited from a simplification of licensing procedures; the financial sector had also made a positive development, and the largest agreement so far had been concluded with the European Investment Bank, in order to improve Greeces liquidity. With French support, Greece was planning the establishment of its own development bank.

In the second part of his speech, Tsipras claimed that economic growth would also benefit the majority of the population. He attempted to substantiate this open lie by listing the social measures introduced by Syriza, including the creation of new jobs, the improvement of access to health care and the reforms in education. However, given the massive social attacks that Syriza has carried outcontrary to its own election promisesthe measures listed are nothing more than crumbs, handed out to try and prevent a social explosion, or that will prove, on closer inspection, to be nothing but illusions.

For example, according to Savvas Rombilis, Scientific Director of the Institute for Work of the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE), and honorary professor at Pantheon University in Athens, just over half of those hired in 2016 now work part-time. Where Elsat talks of a fall in unemployment to 21.5 percent, actual unemployment stands at about 31.5 percent, according to a study by the European Central Bank.

In continuing his austerity measures, Tsipras is relying on the close collaboration of the other European governments. A week ago, he received a visit from French President Macron, who was accompanied to Athens by a phalange of French business leaders and bankers. Macron praised Tsipras and his reforms to the skies and used the Athens trip to seek support for his own attacks on French workers rights.

The Syriza leader, who three years ago posed as the voice of opposition, rolled out the red carpet for the former investment banker. Macron delivered a long and florid speech on the Pynx at the foot of the Acropolis. As twilight fell, he spoke of the future of Europe, with no shortage of platitudes about the heritage of ancient democracy.

The French president proposed the extension and redirection of the European institutions, and stressed: In order not to be dominated by great powers such as the Chinese or Americans, I believe in a European sovereignty that permits us to defend and assert ourselves. He also called for debt relief for Greece, and for the US-dominated IMF to withdraw from the Greek debt programme, something Germany strictly opposes.

Essentially, Macron seeks the strengthening of the European Union as an imperialist counter-weight to the US, and as a bulwark against the European working class. This is also Syrizas perspective.

Tsipras posted photos of himself with his friend Macron on Twitter, and wrote: We support initiatives for a new economic and financial architecture of the EU towards a more democratic and social Europe.

He declared that his country had opened a new chapter and assured Macron that he would not regret investing in Greece. Macron was accompanied by several French businesses that hope to profit from the purchase of Greek state-owned enterprises. Energy company Total is extracting oil and gas in the Ionian Sea, and is interested in resources in the Mediterranean. An international consortium with French participation recently took over the running of the port at Thessaloniki. The Suez conglomerate is interested in taking over the water supply in both Athens and Thessaloniki.

A member of the French delegation told the German newsweekly Der Spiegel that contracts would be agreed for the Greek purchase of French military hardware in the next months.

In the mainstream Greek media and government circles, Macron was treated like a superstar. In an interview with the state news agency ANA-MPA, vice foreign minister Giorgos Katrougalos (Syriza) gushed, The visit of Macron was a great political event, not just for the two countries bilateral relations, but also for the future of Europe. That Macron had brought the leaders of the French business world was a confirmation of the transformation of the Greek economy towards growth.

According to Katrougalos, Tsipras and Macron would share the view that the economic policy of the euro zone had to be democratized. The Greek premier had even proposed the appointment of a European minister for social cohesion. Growth and social cohesion were the precondition for the new social model of just development that our government is already pursuing.

Katrougalos, who was minister of labour from 2015 to 2016, knows exactly whereof he speaks. The new social model of just development is a euphemism for the aggressive austerity policies that have led, in recent years, to an unparalleled redistribution of wealth from the bottom to the top in Greece. The call to make this the example to follow throughout Europe should be understood by European workers as an unconcealed threat.
Everything is better on TV  especially when Stephen Colbert is hosting the Emmys. The Late Show host, himself an Emmy nominee) kicked off his first-ever Emmy emcee duties with a hilarious song-and-dance number that highlighted his musical theater background. A pre-ceremony visit from Anthony Anderson from ABCs Black-ish and Mom star Allison Janney  where they kibitzed about all the troubles facing the world, from rising sea levels to HBOs planned Confederacy series  prompted Colbert to strike up the band as he made the case for the greatness of television with the help of such stars as Chance the Rapper and the This Is Us trio of Chrissy Metz, Justin Hartley, and Sterling K. Brown.

RELATED >>> Emmys: Stephen Colberts best monologue jokes

A well-known geek, Colbert also got culty with some of his shout-outs, including a rare cameo from the animated star of the FXX cartoon series, Archer, and a pas de deux with Millie Bobby Brown, breakout heroine from Netflixs Stephen King/Steven Spielberg homage, Stranger Things. (As he sang: Stranger Things is much less strange than our reality.) And, of course, there were several tuneful gags at Donald Trumps expense. Crashing the Veep set, Colbert confessed hed love to vote for Julia Louis-Dreyfuss character, Selina Meyer, and the fictional veep turned POTUS (and maybe POTUS again?) made a strong case for her reelection, arguing, Imagine if your president was not beloved by Nazis.

The host also spied on a Trump-Putin meeting from the backseat of a car driven by The Americans supersleuths, Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. And for his grand finale, Colbert took the stage alongside dancing handmaids from Hulus much-nominated The Handmaids Tale, singing, Look on the bright side, handmaids, at least your health cares free! Given real world headlines, is it any wonder that the world looks better on TV  even the Republic of Gilead?

More Emmys coverage on Yahoo:
Kevin Hart is facing a media storm after an alleged extortion attempt against the comedian prompted him to issue an emotional apology to his wife and children on social media.

Heres everything we know so far about the alleged extortion  and the cheating rumors that have plagued the Central Intelligence actor for months.

Eniko Parrish (left) and Kevin Hart

The FBI Is Reportedly Investigating an Alleged Extortion Attempt

Someone tried to set Kevin up in a failed extortion attempt, Harts rep confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE. As law enforcement is involved, we cannot comment further as it could affect the investigation.

Sending so many apologies to my wife & kids. I gotta do better and I will. I'm not perfect and have never claimed to be ...I love you all. A post shared by Kevin Hart (@kevinhart4real) on Sep 16, 2017 at 4:07pm PDT

Officials have reportedly identified the woman in the alleged footage, and believe she or someone else attempted to blackmail the star.

The alleged extortionist reportedly told TMZ that he or she was trying to get money and expose Hart for cheating. The person also claimed to have seen Hart partying in Las Vegas last month, and accused the actor of cheating on Parrish with several women.

Eniko Parrish

Im at a place in my life where I feel like I have a target on my back, Hart, 38, said in the clip. And because of that I should make smart decisions. And recently, I didnt. You know, Im not perfect. Im not going to sit up here and say that I am or claim to be in any way shape or form.

He continued: I made a bad error in judgement and I put myself in a bad environment where only bad things can happen and they did. And in doing that I know that Im going to hurt the people closest to me, whove I talked to and apologized to, that would be my wife and my kids.

Hart, whos dad to daughter Heaven, 12, and son Hendrix, 9, with ex-wife Torrei and is expecting a baby boy with Parrish, added that there are no excuses for his wrong behavior and described the situation as a s-y moment.

Story continues

Parrish was photographed Sunday with her wedding ring on, walking her dog in L.A.

Hart Was Accused of Cheating on Parrish Over the Summer

In July, the Ride Along actor laughed off rumors that he cheated on his 32-year-old wife with a woman that he met in a Miami Beach nightclub.

#LiveLoveLaugh .....SMDH A post shared by Kevin Hart (@kevinhart4real) on Jul 19, 2017 at 5:28pm PDT

At the end of the day, you just gotta laugh at the BS, Hart wrote alongside an Instagram photo of himself mid-cackle seemingly dismissing the claims. #LiveLoveLaugh .. [Shaking my damn head].

Rumors swirled after photos surfaced online showing him in a car with a woman after a Miami Beach nightclub appearance.

The shots quickly caught the attention of the Twittersphere, and Harts name trended on the social media site.

Eniko Parrish and Kevin Hart (left), Torrei Hart (right)

Harts Ex-Wife Claimed That He Cheated on Her with Parrish While They Were Married

Hart was again forced to address rumors of infidelity a month later, in August, when his ex-wife, Torrei, claimed that Hart and Parrish started dating before he split from Torrei.

Parrish caused a stir on social media when she wrote on Instagram that she and Hart had been together for the past eight years. Fans and followers were quick to point out that Hart and Torrei got divorced six years ago.

Numbers dont lie. Dates dont lie at the end of the day, Torrei told TMZ after she and Parrish went back and forth in a series of now-deleted Instagram comments.

Kevin Harts Ex-Wife Torrei Says He Was Cheating on Her with Current Wife Eniko Parrish

She forced my hand to address this publicly. The most important thing to me is my children, so if my children see something that shes writing that makes me look like a liar, no.

Parrish responded in a since-deleted comment: Their marriage was broken way before I came in the picture. They were separated living in separate homes. I was never a secret.

Hart and Parrish, 32, married last August in a lavish California ceremony after a two-year engagement. The couple broke their baby news in May, telling PEOPLE that they are expecting their first child together  a little boy.
Johnny Depp's $3 Million Kentucky Horse Farm Fails to Sell at Auction Due to Extremely Low Bids Johnny Depp's Kentucky Farm for Sale at Auction

Johnny Depp is ready to part with his old Kentucky home, but no buyer wants to pick it up.

After originally hitting the market in December for $2.9 million, Depps 41-acre horse farm outside of Lexington went on the auction block on Friday, but failed to sell. The highest bid was less than half of the propertys previous listing price, Rector Hayden Realtors and Halfhill Auction Group confirm to PEOPLE.

The bid of $1.4 million came from local radio DJ Rick Dees, but was rejected for being too low.

Its not over yet, Depps business manager Edward White told the Lexington Herald Leader. There are some people interested in meeting with me.

Depp successfully sold the farm once before, but later bought it back.

The Pirates of the Caribbean star, 54, who was born in Kentucky, reportedly first picked up the farm in 1995 for $950,000, and sold it in 2001 for $1 million. He purchased it again in 2005 for $2 million. The listing agent, Gary Denton of Rector Hayden, has said he doesnt know why Depp unloaded and re-bought the land, especially because the actors mother had been occupying it. His mother, Betty Sue Palmer, passed away in May 2016 and the parcel is named Betty Sues Family Farm in her honor.

A 6,000-square-foot house with seven bedrooms, a four-car garage, a one-bedroom guesthouse, three barns, a pool and automatically watered paddocks awaits prospective buyers

The Herald reports the house also has shag carpeting in the kitchen, a television the size of a queen bed in the master suite, and numerous family photos inside.

The reserve price was not disclosed before the auction. Bluegrass Sothebys International Realty agent John Scott Durbin told the Wall Street Journal that this selling strategy is common in Kentucky, and serves as a routine way of drawing a crowd for a listing.

Depp also re-listed his estate in the South of France in July 2016, nearly doubling the asking price from $17 million to $55.5 million.

Related Video:
Nicole Kidman used her Emmy Awards acceptance speech on Sunday night to speak out against domestic violence.

Kidman won best actress in a limited series for her role on HBOs Big Little Lies, playing a character who is physically abused by her husband.

Weve shown a light on domestic abuse, Kidman said as the crowd applauded. It is a complicated, insidious disease. It exists far more than we allow ourselves to know. It is filled with shame and secrecy. And by you acknowledging me with this award, it shines a light on it even more. So thank you, thank you, thank you. I bow down to you.

Kidman was one of a number of Big Little Lies winners on Sunday, joining Laura Dern (supporting actress), Alexander Skarsgard (supporting actor), and director Jean-Marc Vallee.

The actress, an Oscar winner, thanked them all  and gave a special shoutout to costar and producer Reese Witherspoon, whom she defeated in the category on Sunday.

Reese, I share this with you. Without you, I would not be standing up here, so Kidman said.

The drama was created and written by David E. Kelley and based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. Set in the affluent Californian city of Monterey, the residents are shaken by the occurrence of a murder during the local schools themed trivia night. Neither the victim nor the culprit is revealed until the final episode of the series, which was nominated for a whopping 16 Emmy awards overall.

Kidman beat out fierce competition from Witherspoon, as well as Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon both for Feud: Bette and Joan, Carrie Coon in Fargo, and Felicity Huffman in American Crime.
Sofia Vergara Emmy Awards

Here comes Sofia! Actress Sofia Vergara wasnt exactly a bride at the 2017 Emmy Awards on Sunday, September 17, but she sure went the bridal route on the red carpet.

The Modern Family star looked resplendent at the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards in a strapless white Mark Zunino gown. Vergaras gown selectiona strapless, figure-flattering piece with a mermaid hemwas teased by the designer leading up to the show.

Heres our final gown for the Emmy Awards! Zunino tweeted Sunday morning alongside a sketch of Vergaras look. Watch the Emmys today to see who will be wearing all of our gowns! #markzunino#emmys.

Heres our final gown for the Emmy Awards! Watch the Emmys today to see who will be wearing all of our gowns! #markzunino #emmys pic.twitter.com/Ikqzns8QOH  mark zunino (@Mark_Zunino) September 17, 2017

Vergara praised Zuninos work while chatting with E! News outside of the Microsoft Theater. He makes dresses that are perfect for voluptuous women, she said.

Joining the leading lady at the star-studded affair was her handsome, 25-year-old son Manolo Gonzalez-Ripoll Vergara. Vergaras husband Joe Manganiello couldnt make it due to another work commitment on the East Coast.

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Sofia Vergara, Manolo Gonzalez-Ripoll Vergara arrives at the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)

LOS ANGELES, CA  SEPTEMBER 17: Sofia Vergara, Manolo Gonzalez-Ripoll Vergara arrives at the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)

Its amazing, Manolo told ET of joining his mom at the Emmys. She invites me when Joes busy, so

[Joes] shooting a movie in New York, Vergara chimed in. So Im like, Manolo, you wanna come?'

Related Articles
A 10-year-old boy, whose family was left without power in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, was killed in a mobile home fire in Florida Thursday, according to reports.

A neighbor told Fox News that a candle may have started the fire that killed Matthew Aaron Nicklin and injured his 1-year-old brother in Marion County.

Read: Pregnant Woman Gives Birth After Boyfriend Allegedly Set Her on Fire

Dee Cole, a neighbor, said that she tried to help the children out of the home during the fire, adding that one of the children told her that a long candle bent and ignited the drapes.

But officials said they have not yet determined the cause of the blaze.

From the point of view of the fire department, the cause of that fire is under investigation, Marion County Fire Rescue spokesman James Lucas said.

Read: Fire Chief Investigated for Deadly Arson That Killed 10 at Holiday Inn

Two other children, 8 and 12, and two adults in the family were not injured, reports said.

A Marion County Fire Rescue spokesman said the 1-year-old baby was unresponsive when rescuers first arrived, but became more responsive after CPR and was airlifted to the hospital, reports said.

The baby remains in stable condition at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville.

Watch: Firefighter Killed in Car Accident While Driving to Fire That Killed Girl, 2

Related Articles:
The most talented faces of primetime television gathered in Los Angeles' Microsoft Theater Sunday night to celebrate their accomplishments over the past year.

For many of these well-known faces, the Emmys are a chance to glam up, reunite with co-stars, get political or hype up their upcoming season premieres (This is Us, anyone?).

For us,the Emmys are a chance to "ooh" and "ah" over the prettiest gowns, the most ethereal looks and imagine our dream closets.

On Sunday night, that's exactly what we did as our favorite stars made their way down the red carpet. Nicole Kidman and newcomer Millie Bobby Brown took our breath away with their glamorous ensembles, while Sarah Paulson looked as edgy as ever in a backless silver gown.

69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Photo: Getty

Thandie Newton was one of the night's standouts in a pink strapless gown by Jason Wu. Embellished with sparkles, the Westworld actress looked every bit a fairytale as she made her way to the memorable awards show.

For more incredible looks from the night, scroll through above!

RELATED:
Nicole Kidman in Calvin Klein Nicole Kidman, nominated for Best Actress in a Limited Series for her role in Big Little Lies, wore red to walk the red carpet. Her tea-length Calvin Klein dress featured a deep V-neck, which highlighted the large diamonds hanging from her neck. (Photo: Reuters)

The red carpet at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday night brought together stars of the small screen at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. From the all-star ensemble casts of Stranger Things and This Is Us to comedic stars like Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Aziz Ansari, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Alec Baldwin, the best in the business walked the red carpet on Sunday night. Click through above for every attendee.

Check out more Emmy Awards coverage from Yahoo Lifestyle.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.
The Four American tourists attacked with acid in France on Sunday are all female Boston College students in their early 20s, according to the Associated Press.

The women were attacked at the Saint Charles train station in Marseille, a coastal city in southern France, Sunday morning. All four of the women were hospitalized  two of them suffering from shock  and later released, according to the Associated Press. Two of the young women were slightly injured in the face by the acid, with one of them potentially having an eye injury, the AP reported.

It appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances, though they may require additional treatment for burns, Nick Gozik, director of the colleges Office of International Programs, said in a statement, according to the AP. We have been in contact with the students and remain in touch with French officials and the U.S. Embassy regarding the incident.

Representatives from Boston College did not immediately respond to request for comment from TIME.

French authorities are not considering the incident a terrorist attack, the AP reported. A 41-year-old woman has been taken into custody as a result of the incident.

The students who were attacked were Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman and Michelle Krug, who are studying at the colleges program in Paris. Kelsey Korsten, the fourth victim, is studying at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark.

The incident comes after another attack in Marseille in late August. A man driving a van rammed into two bus stops, killing one person and injuring another. Marseille police did not believe the incident was a terror attack, and the suspect was treated for psychological problems, according to the Associated Press.
BuzzFeed has called it one of the mostunderrated food cities in America. Lonely Planet named it theUnited States #1 travel destinationof 2017. If those two factoids arent enough to get you packing your bags, it callsitselfBeer City USA.

Asheville, North Carolina is beloved by both locals and visitors alike, thanks to its population of artists, proximity to theBlue Ridge mountainsand charming downtown area.

In addition to visiting theBiltmore, getting a taste of the local craft beers and enjoying the scenery, theres also a ton of great shopping that you can do both in person and online. Check out our picks for some of the best shopping in Asheville below.

A post shared by Desirant (@desirantasheville)on May 6, 2017 at 1:30pm PDT

Desirantis a one-stop shop for fashionable shoes, jewelry, clothing and decor. Were especially partial to theshoes, which range from strappy sandals to platforms to booties.

A post shared by We So Honey (@wesohoney_vintage)on Mar 28, 2016 at 6:56pm PDT

We So Honeycurates a high quality selection of vintage clothing for all genders, with an eye for the unconventional, distinctive and rare, according to its website. It boasts dresses dating back to the 30s, and even has a pretty extensivebridal collection.

A post shared by Bruisin' Ales (@bruisinales)on Sep 7, 2017 at 2:40pm PDT

A place that calls itselfBeer City U.S.A. better have the brews to prove it. Citizen Times once called the selection at this local beer shop, which boasts over 1,000 different brews from around town and the countrymind-blowing.Best of all? You can have it shipped anywhere in the country. Cheers!

A post shared by Porter and Prince (@porterandprince)on Jun 30, 2017 at 4:59am PDT

Feast your eyes on the luxurious mecca that isPorter & Prince. Described on its website as one of the Top 100 Retailers in the United States, the charming storefront also offers online options for its loungewear, housewares and beauty products.

Story continues

This place is the bees knees. Located in Asheville and committed to connecting communities by offering customers small-batch, regional-based local and artisan honey as well as promoting artists unique, one-of-kind, bee-themed wares, this charming shop sells accessories, skincare and of course, honey.

MORE FROM LISTEN TO AMERICA

10 Food Truths You'll Understand If You're From Memphis

Keniece Walker: I Live In Memphis, Tennessee, And This Is My Style

Sara Saxon: I Live In Birmingham, Alabama, And This Is My Style

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
(Photo: Courtesy of Cecilia Li)

Amid the freedom and chaos of college life, its easy to forget just how good it was to be living under your parents roof.

Cecilia Li, 19, received a sweet reminder of that in the mail.

After spending last weekend at her parents house in San Diego, Li had to head back to college for summer classes at the University of California Los Angeles, according to BuzzFeed.

During the hours-long drive, Li remembered she had left behind the mango her dad had sliced for her and packed neatly in a glass container. Even though mango is her favorite fruit, it was too late for Li and her mom to turn around.

Her dad texted her about the forgotten mango during her drive back. Then, he asked for her mailing address. When Li asked about the address, her father dutifully said hed ship the mangoes to her apartment overnight.

(Photo: Courtesy of Cecilia Li)

Sure enough, the mangoes arrived at Lis apartment in a styrofoam box filled with ice.

The carefully packaged container earned Lis father the title of Dad of the Year.

MY DAD MAILED ME A TUPPERWARE OF MANGO THAT HE HAD CUT FOR ME IN AN ICEBOX BC I FORGOT THEM WHEN I WENT BACK TO SCHOOL HAHAH DAD OF THE YEAR pic.twitter.com/jXHTTYJ2Ya   (@ce_silly_a) September 13, 2017

Li told BuzzFeed that she rarely gets to see her dad because he works over the weekends, but she was thrilled to receive his specially cut mangoes in the mail.

I had never been happier nor more amused that I had mangoes cut, packaged, and shipped with love, Li told the news site.

She shared photos of the packaging and the bright-colored mangoes on Twitter  and people were touched by her fathers selfless gesture.

Don't ever let that Mango  Action Jackson  (@Mofaye_) September 14, 2017

Can i borrow your dad ?   Carl (@kwami_c) September 16, 2017

Were impressed that Lis dad didnt just keep the sweet, golden mango for himself. Now thats true love.

Story continues

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

That mango though pic.twitter.com/NdeYPEgP4z  Andrew ybarra (@Ybarra_10) September 16, 2017

Clarification: While Cecilia Lis tweet and an earlier version of this story identified the container in her photo as a Tupperware, it is not actually a Tupperware product.

Also on HuffPost

"This dad had been emotional from the moment the midwife told his partner it was time to push. He supported her through every second of her painful labor  and two epidurals. There was so much anticipation and lead-up to this moment that when the time came, his emotions utterly overwhelmed him in the most precious and authentic way. I can't imagine how much his daughter will love seeing this moment when she's older, knowing just how much her father loves her."

"As the pushing phase progressed, this first-time dad grew more and more excited to meet his daughter. As her head started to emerge, he repeatedly covered his face in wonderment and awe. Her first breath certainly took his breath away!"

"This dad told me: 'All the action below the curtain and all the peace above it what a wonderful moment in time. I had no idea my wife was hiring a birth photographer, but after seeing this shot, I'm so glad she did.'"

"This baby's mom had just handed her to her father for some skin-to-skin ... and this sweet girl was clearly absolutely smitten! At less than two hours old, she was raising her head to look straight into his eyes."

"This mother had been laboring for about 12 hours at this point and was absolutely exhausted. She was entering into transition, so each contraction was getting even more intense. Mic, the father, leaned in to pull her in close as she came down from the last contraction, wiping her tears from her cheeks. It was truly one of the sweetest moments I've ever captured between a mom and dad."

"This couple had decided right after getting married that they would have kids via adoption, not because of any physical constraints, but because that was what was in their hearts. Their first daughter is 2 years old and they adopted her the day she was born. So it came as a huge surprise when they moved to Hawaii and, at the same time, found out they were pregnant! This father was his partner's rock throughout the whole labor, both physically and mentally. When she pulled her baby to her chest, their reactions were so different  but so awesome!"

"This moment! If any couple has really labored together, it was them. Watching them bring their son into the world and meet him for the first time was so moving."

"This dad is holding his son for the first time, after waiting for his girlfriend to nurse and to have her time with the baby, skin-to-skin. Even though he was so patient, you could also see he was excited to finally get to hold his baby."

"These two dads are just about to meet their son for the first time. They traveled to Canada from Barcelona, Spain, (where surrogacy is illegal) to be there and support the surrogate mama in labor and delivery."

"This dad wanted to make sure no one touched his baby's umbilical cord until it had fully finished its job, so this was one way to guard it against being cut too early! This family knows how to have a good time any place, any time  this wasn't staged at all! (They did use scissors to cut the umbilical cord.)"

"There are those moments in life that you know will change you forever. And sometimes in those moments, you just can't keep it together!"

"This is the moment that this daddy, who is in the military, got to meet his boy  from oceans away. Sadly, the baby passed away three weeks after he was born, but his parents are always OK with sharing his photos so that his memory lives on."

"It was a long birth for these first-time parents, but the father not only encouraged his partner, he also talked to his baby throughout labor. It was beautiful to witness."

"A supportive moment in between contractions. The trust between these two is so obvious. It's one of my favorite photos."

"I adore care providers who allow partners to be such important parts of their baby's birth. Allowing dads to have this opportunity  or encouraging them to sit skin-to-skin just after birth helps facilitate an opportunity for instant bonding with their babies."

"This dad was so shocked that the birth of their second baby happened so fast that it took him a few moments to realize what had happened. Even though you know you are about to have a baby, that moment is still so big and shocking!"

"As this mama worked through a contraction, her partner was by her side offering his love and support."

"This is one of my favorite images. The mom was in recovery after her C-section, so the dad spent some time snuggling and getting to know his baby girl in the quiet of their hospital room as we waited for them to bring her in."

"This was this couple's first girl and their last baby. It was also their first home birth and it just all came together for them. There was so much love in the room. This baby is daddy's little girl for sure."

"This is a rainbow birth. This couple had several miscarriages and stillbirths. This mom wrote in a blog post on my site: 'My initial thoughts were: that hurt and I'm glad it's over. Then it hit me, he's here and he's alive. We are bringing a baby home from the hospital! Still seems like such a dream.'"

"This mother had been in labor for three days, trying to have a vaginal birth after a C-section (VBAC). Her husband, a Dallas police officer, stayed by her side through every single contraction."

"Directly after a C-section delivery, the nurse placed these twin babies in their father's arms for the very first time. There was so much love in the room."

"Moments after watching his first child be delivered, this father tearfully gazes at his wife with such love and admiration."

"This was the very last push before this couple's 10-pound baby arrived. That look on the dad's face is priceless!"

"I love it when dads do skin-to-skin! This Marine was so gentle and sweet with his newborn son."

"This dad is helping his wife through her 'surges' or contractions as they were getting closer to meeting their first child."

"This dad snuggles with his girls as they welcome and get to know their new baby brother."

"This particular first-time dad was so fun to watch during labor and then after the birth of his son. He was cracking jokes to try to make his partner smile. When he held his baby, everyone in the room could see him falling in love in a whole new way and making plans for all the fun they would have together in the years to come."

"This new dad couldn't stop smiling at his beautiful new daughter. Immediately after birth, the three of them snuggled up together for hours."

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Anna Faris arriving at the Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017. (Photo: Charles Sykes/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

If Anna Faris is having a hard time in the wake of her split from Chris Pratt, shes certainly not letting it show.

Fans were shocked and dismayed when the couple announced their separation in August after eight years of marriage. While Pratt, 38, made his award show reemergence last month at the Teen Choice Awards, Faris waited until Sunday night to make her first major post-split appearance  and shes making singledom look good.

Faris, 40, walked the Emmys red carpet and stunned in a purple Marc Jacobs gown. The Mom star  who is a presenter at this evenings awards show  appeared serene in the deep cut, floor-length column gown with floral and gem accents. She sported a matching purple clutch and wore her hair long with loose curls.

Anna Faris at the Emmys. (Photo: Charles Sykes/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

The first hint of Fariss red carpet look came on Instagram, where hair stylist Mark Townsend posted a picture of the actress from behind while he touched up her gorgeous blonde locks. Final touches on the gorgeous @annafaris for #Emmys, Townsend wrote, showing the back of Fariss purple racerback gown with gem embellishments. Numerous commenters agreed with his assessment, with one adding what we were already thinking: Faris & Pratt Rip.

A post shared by Mark Townsend (@marktownsend1) on Sep 17, 2017 at 2:59pm PDT

In recent weeks, Faris has been candid about her side of the split on her podcast, Unqualified. When counseling a caller on relationship advice, she said, Life is too short to be in relationships where you feel this isnt fully right or somebody doesnt have your back, or somebody doesnt fully value you. Dont be afraid to feel your independence if things arent right.

Faris also explained how shed lost herself in relationships.

I made that mistake, I think, a little bit, like Im checking my relationship off the list and if that would be the final piece of advice I could give you, that would be know your worth, know your independence, she added.

At the end of October, Faris will see her memoir, also called Unqualified, released to a hungry public  complete with a foreword from Pratt. The book spans Fariss relationship with Pratt, including how she fell in love with him on the set of Take Me Home Tonight, insights on her wedding, her insecurity about Pratt kissing female co-stars, and Pratts insecurity about her onscreen make outs, too.

Story continues

Faris talked on her podcast about her apprehensiveness around the books release, as it includes anecdotes about her marriage to Pratt and other personal tales.

I feel really, really nervous because it feels really intimate, Faris said about her book. Im excited and  you know, when I first got the book deal I thought, Oh, what a great adventure. Now that its getting closer, I feel, in a sense, that I got to always hide behind characters, and now this is me and it feels a little scary.

Faris was also unabashed about how revealing she got in the book, saying, Its just my experiences. Its just sort of how I felt as a really quiet kid with headgear, and then suddenly being an actress in L.A. and  basically how I havent felt comfortable in my own skin.

In the foreword, Pratt is effusive with his praise of Faris, writing, She is fierce and very loyal, she rarely punishes people. But when she does, its powerful and terrifying, and when its over, its really over.

While were still sad that Faris and Pratt are over, its clear tonight that the single life agrees with the actress.

More Emmy Awards coverage from Yahoo:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.
DURHAM, N.C.As a crowd of protestors put a strap around a Confederate memorial on August 14 and pulled it off its plinth, Durham County sheriffs deputies kept a low profile. They didnt intervene. Instead they stood aside, filming, as the 83-year-old statue crumpled on the lawn of the old court house.

It turns out that wasnt a sign of acquiescence. The next day, Sheriff Mike Andrews produced arrest warrants for several of the protestors. They were charged with a pair of misdemeanors, but also with two felonies apiece: one for participating in a riot with property damage of more than $1,500, and inciting a riot with property damage of more than $1,500.

Let me be clear, no one is getting away with what happened, Andrews said.

Related Story

Local Officials Want to Remove Confederate Monumentsbut States Won't Let Them

Those unexpectedly strong charges have added a jolt to the already charged aftermath of the statues removal. Among Durhams political leaders, theres no love lost for the statue. Inside this diverse, liberal bastion, Confederate monuments are as unpopular as social justice is popular, and those who support the statue are for the most part marginalized. But the guerrilla action of tearing the statue down has inspired a debate over how to reckon with monuments like the rebel soldier, how to handle the crime of tearing it downand whether it is indeed a crime.

When several protestors held a press conference to demand leniency on August 15, attracting a large and supportive crowd, sheriffs deputies arrived and arrested one protestor, Takiyah Thompson, immediately after it concluded. In addition to those accused of pulling down the statue, another mana member of the leftist group Redneck Revolthas been charged with two misdemeanors after bringing a gun to a demonstration later that week, spurred by rumors of a Ku Klux Klan march.

Story continues

Recommended: The First White President

In North Carolina, the sheriff can determine the charges used to arrest a person, but its the district attorney who ultimately decides what charges to bring in court. The Durham County district attorneys office is still investigating the case. On Tuesday, several of the people who were arrested had a court hearing, though their case was simply continued forward to a later date.

Outside the court house, roughly a hundred demonstrators rallied in support of the arrestees, arguing that the sheriffs department is another extension of the same white-supremacist system that erected the Confederate statue in 1924. They wore hats that said, Do It Like Durham: 9.14.2017, and carried signs that demanded that the judicial system stop the witchhunt against anti-racist activists. Tension between the Durham activist community and the sheriffs department is nothing new: Many of the demonstrators this week have also been protested the sheriffs management of the county jail, including several deaths of inmates, one of them a 17-year-old who committed suicide this spring after nearly a year behind bars on murder charges.

The question of how to handle the statue removal operates on two levels. The first is mechanical: Do the charges on which Andrews arrested the suspects fit the crime? The second is more philosophical: What is the appropriate way for the justice system to deal with civil disobedience?

Recommended: Challenging the Dogmas of Right and Left

The first question is more directly operative, and perhaps simplerthough not necessarily simple. Under state law, the felony charges require both a riot and property damage of more than $1,500. Scott Holmes, an attorney for those who were arrested, argued that the incident doesnt reach the bar for either.

It doesn't mean the legal definition of a riot, said Holmes, who was present at the August 14 protest but left before the statue was toppled. There was no violence, there was no threat of violence, the mood was celebratory.

It doesn't mean the legal definition of a riot. There was no violence, there was no threat of violence, the mood was celebratory.

He also disputed the sheriffs valuation of the statue at $10,000. I think it would be a contested legal and cultural issue as to how much this thing is worth, especially when there are many places that consider these things a liability, Holmes said. It really speaks to the cultural debate were having about a white supremacist past and present. He also emphasized that the decision on what charges to bring sat with District Attorney Roger Echols and not Andrews.

It is unsurprising that the defendants lawyer would object to the potential charges, but some legal experts agree.

Irving Joyner, a professor of law at North Carolina Central University and veteran litigator in civil-rights cases, called the felony charges a typical situation of overcharging. Joe Kennedy, a professor at the University of North Carolina School of Law, noted that North Carolinas legal definition of felony riot specifically requires violence or a willingness to commit it.

Recommended: Mormons Once Aspired to Be a 'White and Delightsome' People

In assigning felony liability, we want to distinguish people who are merely damaging property and those who are willing to hurt people, Kennedy said. Its hard to find a riot here. You find vandalism, you can find disorderly conduct, but I dont think you can find a riot when only one side shows up and the side that does show up doesnt show intent to injure any person.

Riot aside, there is the matter of what the statue is worth. A 2015 state law prohibits the removal of Confederate monuments, but the country is trying to decide what legal obligations it has now. Does it have to reinstall the destroyed statue? Or does it have to replace it? At the time of its erection, the statue seems to have cost about $5,000, but that included its granite plinth. The protest demonstrated the cheapness of its construction, too: Though it appeared to be bronze, the statue crumpled, probably irreparably in the fall, and turned out to be made of sheet metal that was merely coated in bronze. Assessing the present-day value of the statue is also challenging. In some cases around the country, local officials are seeking to remove Confederate monuments on the basis that the are in fact a liability because they create public-safety issues. Echols has asked the county to determine what the statue is worth as part of his investigation.

Joyner said that Andrewss charges, and his vow not to let anybody get away with a crime, suggested he may be posturing, in an attempt to show members of the community a tough stand or to deter would-be topplers of other statues.

I think a lot of it is political and public relations and getting out to people, Were going to go after these people real hard, Joyner said. If this statue was worth saving, [the sheriff] could have posted people around it.

In a statement, a spokeswoman noted that the Sheriff's Office consulted with prosecutors on at least two occasions before obtaining warrants. Sheriff Andrews will continue to enforce the law and maintain respect for the District Attorneys Office, and the judicial process, which ultimately will have the final say on the merit of the charges. Andrews has also asked city and county officials to clarify guidelines for demonstrations.

Even as there is a debate over how harshly to charge protestors, legislators in some statesincluding North Carolinahave considered codifying lenient punishments for those who injure them. Demonstrators have seized on blocking roads and highways as a tactic for grabbing attention. In response, several GOP-controlled state legislatures have considered laws that would grant drivers some degree of immunity for injuries caused to protestors in roadways, provided they did not willfully hurt people.

While there are political arguments that support harsh charges for protestors, or lighter ones for people who injure them, there is also a political argument in favor of lesser punishment. Theres a rich intellectual strain that argues that acts of civil disobedience, like tearing down statues that commemorate treasonous, white supremacist revolts against the United States government, deserve lenience.

Andrews argued in his letter, in effect, that anyone who violates the law should be subject to its full force: Persons who refuse to obey the law; whether they concern permits, blocking roads, bring weapons to demonstrations, wearing masks at demonstrations or on public property, or engaging in the destruction of property, should expect to be held accountable.

Not so, argued the legal philosopher Ronald Dworkin in a classic 1968 essay.

The popular view that the law is the law and must always be enforced refuses to distinguish the man who acts on his own judgment of a doubtful law, and thus behaves as our practices provide, from the common criminal, Dworkin wrote. I know of no reason, short of moral blindness, for not drawing a distinction in principle between the two cases.

If this statue was worth saving, [the sheriff] could have posted people around it.

Dworkin was writing about the prosecution of several Vietnam War opponents, including the William Sloane Coffin and Benjamin Spock, who had broken the law by encouraging resistance to the draft. (All but one of the defendants were eventually convicted, but the verdicts were overturned on appeal due to the errors by a judge.)

To Dworkin, it was possible and necessary to draw a distinction between the motives of the common criminal and the criminal of conscience. Furthermore, he wrote, our society suffers a loss if it punishes a group that includesas the group of draft dissenters doessome of its most thoughtful and loyal citizens.

In his only comments so far on the case, Echols (who is black and, like most Durham officials, a Democrat) suggested he might grant the protestors the benefit of that argument.

A just resolution must also include balancing accountability for the actual destruction of property in violation of the law with the climate in which these action were undertaken, he said. Justice requires that I must take into account the pain of recent events in Charlottesville and the pain in Durham and the nation.

Echols also cited not only the political climate at the moment, but also the state law, which all but guaranteed that any attempt at removing the statue by local authorities would have been blocked by the same Republican-dominated state legislature that enacted the ban two years ago: Justice requires that I consider that Durham citizens have no proper recourse for asking our local government to relocate or remove this monument.

Finally, Echols placed the statues removal in the context of centuries of oppression of black people and other people of colorstarting in slavery, but continuing through the Redemption era, especially in North Carolina, and Jim Crow, up to the present, when racial disparities still taint the justice system. Nationwide and in Durham, as I wrote when the statue came down, African Americans are more likely to be stopped by police, arrested for many offenses, and incarcerated.

In a striking comment for a prosecutor to make, Echols offered an implicit rebuke to liberals who argued that while the statue was an abomination, the method of removal was inappropriate.

Justice also requires that I be aware that asking people to be patient and to let various government institutions address injustice is sometimes asking more than those who have historically been ignored, marginalized, or harmed by the system can bear, he said.

Irv Joyner, who has dealt with Echols in a professional capacity, told me that the district attorney had been pretty reasonable in cases involving defendants arrested amid protests. I anticipate a reasonable outcome, Joyner added. But what constitutes a reasonable outcome in a case like this tends to reside in the politics of the beholder.

Read more from The Atlantic:

This article was originally published on The Atlantic.
SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazil's Army commander dismissed a general's suggestion that members of the Army's High Command endorse some sort of "military intervention" if high courts fail to stem political corruption, the online services of Brazil's two biggest newspapers said. At a gathering of freemasons in Brasilia last Friday, General Antonio Hamilton Mourao had suggested his fellows at the High Command think the current timing is not favorable for military intervention but that it could eventually take place through "successive steps," Folha de S. Paulo said. "Either institutions sort out the political problem, through the judiciary branch of power and withdrawing from public life all those elements involved in illicit acts, or then we will have to impose that," Mourao was quoted as saying by O Estado de S. Paulo newspaper on Sunday. Army Commander Eduardo Villas Boas dismissed Mourao's comments by saying there is "no possibility" of a military intervention in Brazil. Boas told Estado that since 1985, when a 21-year military dictatorship came to an end, the military was "not responsible for any source of turmoil in the nation's life, and it will continue to be like that." While Mourao, currently the army's head of finance, hinted that there could come a time when the army would have to impose military action, he said it would not be to take power from civilians, Folha said. An action would aim at "telling people, 'Beware, let's fix this now so the country can move forward and not continue the way it is,'" the newspaper quoted him as saying. The army command did not immediately respond to request for comment. Mourao could not be found by Reuters to comment on his remarks. Mourao, in the army since 1972, was discharged from Brazil's South Military Command and transferred to the federal capital of Brasilia in 2015 for administrative work after publicly criticizing former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff. Rousseff was impeached last year after she was found guilty of doctoring budget accounts. Her fall was accelerated by a three-year corruption scandal known as Operation Car Wash, which has ensnared top members of her Workers Party and her ruling coalition in bribery and graft acts. (Reporting by Ana Mano; Writing by Guillermo Parra-Bernal; Editing by Bill Trott)
Ben Affleckwas at Sunday nightsEmmysto support girlfriend and Saturday Night Live producer Lindsay Shookus.

Affleck and Shookus attended the ceremony at Los Angeles Microsoft Theater together, marking their first major public appearance as a couple, even though theyskipped the red carpetand decided to enter through a side VIP entrance instead, according to E! News.

A post shared by PEPLETALK.RU (@peopletalkru)on Sep 18, 2017 at 1:45am PDT

The actor was there to applaud when Shookus, 37, took the stage after SNL won the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series. She started working at SNL after college in an assistant role and quickly rose through the ranks. One of her big breaks was helping discover Kristen Wiig.

When I started as an assistant at SNL, I got my eyes on Kristen Wiig and was able to bring her for an audition for Lorne Michaels and the other producers, she told The Hollywood Reporter in 2015, after being named to their list of up-and-coming execs 35 and under. Turns out, Kristen Wiig can give you some street cred early on.

Following the main event, the couple joined Larry David at HBOs after-party at the Plaza at the Pacific Design Center.

Fans were excited to see the two together.

Ben Affleck is here at the#Emmysaccompanying his girlfriend, who is part of the SNL teampic.twitter.com/EFsnWI9UEP  Scott Feinberg (@ScottFeinberg)September 18, 2017

Emmy winner,Kate McKinnon waiting to go into the interview room. They even make Ben Affleck wait ;)#emmyspic.twitter.com/qvsGwqY0gG  Gavin Lew (@glew)September 18, 2017

You have one job to do, cameraperson: cut to an audience shot of Lindsay Shookus and Ben Affleck. Then cut to them again. Then another time  Michelle Markowitz (@michmarkowitz)September 18, 2017

News of their romancefirst surfaced in July, three months after Affleck and ex Jennifer Garner filed for divorce.Affleck and Garner split back in 2015 after 10 years of marriage. Shookus split from her producer husband Kevin Miller in 2014.

Story continues

Earlier this month, the pair attended the U.S. Open together.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Theres no cookie more universally loved than the chocolate chip cookie, so we all owe it to ourselves to bake the best darn chocolate chip cookies we can possibly make  for us, for our friends and family, and for the dignity of the chocolate chip cookie itself.

Were here with help. We reached out to some of our favorite bakers and got some invaluable tips on how to make the best possible chocolate chip cookies.

If youre making chocolate chip cookies, youd better use good chocolate.

Lets be honest, were all in it for the chocolate so it makes sense that the chocolate is something youd want to eat on its own.

Basically, if you want good chocolate chip cookies, you need to put a good chocolate in it, Jacques Torres, creator of one of the best chocolate chip cookie recipes told HuffPost. I dont like to bake with baking chocolate because most dont have enough cocoa butter. And if you bake with those, the pieces of chocolate dont even melt in the oven.

Chocolate doesnt melt if it doesnt have enough cocoa butter. And if it doesnt melt in the oven, its not going to melt in your mouth. That is a very good point, because we all want cookies that melt in our mouths.

Cut your own chips.

The debate on whether to use chips vs. chunks is a heated one, but according to some of the best bakers in the baking world, cutting your own chocolate is the only way to go.

For me, one of the most important parts of a chocolate chip cookie is the chip, Dorie Greenspan, renowned cookbook author (most recently Dories Cookies) told HuffPost. I think its often taken for granted, when in fact, it can add deep flavor and a new texture to the cookie, taking it from a good snack to a sweet you pay attention to.

I like to chop my own chips  which sounds tedious, but isnt. I choose a favorite chocolate and, using a long serrated knife or a chefs knife, cut the chocolate into morsel-size bits. I never try to be precise because one of the pleasures of hand-chopped chips is how they vary in size, making each bite of the cookie different from the last or the next. And, because good chocolate melts and chips are formulated to keep their shape, you get a more interesting texture and look when you use chocolate. I like to incorporate the dust that accumulates when you chop the chocolate  it gives the dough a tweedy look and more chocolate flavor.

Story continues

Push it to the limit.

If youre taking the effort to make chocolate chip cookies from scratch, youd better get serious about the amount of chocolate you use. Amy Emberling of Zingermans Bakehouse in Michigan told HuffPost that the best thing you can do is indulge. Dont be skimpy! If using nuts, chocolate or other mix-ins, push the quantity to the limit.

Whatever you do, dont overmix the dough.

One of the worst things you can do to a great chocolate chip cookie dough is overwork it. This can be easier said than done.

Be sure to thoroughly mix all your dry ingredients (flour, salt, baking powder and/or baking soda) together before adding to your butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, to make sure theyre fully incorporated in the final mix, Tom Clark of Blackbird Baking Co. in Ohio told HuffPost.

This will help you keep that last mix as short as possible. Add your chocolate chips at the very end and, obviously, dont over-mix them into the dough.

Over-mixing the dough overworks the gluten and makes the dough too elastic, resulting in a tough cookie.

Dont forget the salt.

Salt is a crucial ingredient in cookies. Its what brings out all the flavors.

Greenspan says, Salt is as important as sugar in a chocolate chip cookie - it balances the sweetness of the cookie and emphasizes the flavor of the chocolate. It also wakes up our palates and lingers on them, so we want to reach for another cookie.

Some bakers even like to sprinkle some sea salt on the cookies either right before baking or right when they come out of the oven. Teighan Gerard, author of the Half Baked Harvest cookbook and blog, told HuffPost, I like to finish with Maldon sea salt. A generous pinch of flaky Maldon salt on top of a warm cookie is the best addition.

Refrigerate your dough.

After mixing the dough, refrigerate it before baking. This is not just to cool the dough, but it gives the gluten time to rest and allows the flavors to meld. You should refrigerate the dough overnight, if you can.

The last thing I do for my cookies in my store is I divide them into the size I want, and I leave them overnight in the refrigerator, shared Torres. When you do that the ingredients gain more flavor through maturation.

Store them smartly.

And once youre done baking the cookies, Torres has some sage advice for storage. He says, Cookies are not like wine, theyre not going to be get better with age. The best way to store your cookies is in your stomach.

In other words, eat up!

Related...

OMG, Ben & Jerry's Is Blessing Us With Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Beer

Someone Upgraded The Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie And It Is GOOD

This Is the Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in the World

Also on HuffPost

Soft And Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Soft And Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe from Averie Cooks

Dark Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Get the Dark Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie Recipe from Tasty Kitchen, via How Sweet It Is

Brown Butter Oatmeal Chunk Cookies

Get the Brown Butter Oatmeal Chunk Cookies recipe from How Sweet It Is

Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by How Sweet It Is

Mini Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Mini Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by How Sweet It Is

Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by How Sweet It Is

Puffy Peanut Butter Cookies With Chocolate Chips

Get the Puffy Peanut Butter Cookies with Chocolate Chips recipe by How Sweet It Is

Chocolate Chip Cookies With Nutella, Brown Butter And Sea Salt

Get the Chocolate Chip Cookies with Nutella, Brown Butter and Sea Salt recipe by Annie's Eats

Caramel Corn Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Caramel Corn Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by Annie's Eats

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookie

Get the Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookie recipe by Pass the Sushi

Sea Salt And Thyme Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Get the Sea Salt and Thyme Chocolate Chunk Cookies recipe by Pass the Sushi

Toasted Coconut Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Toasted Coconut Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by Foodiecrush

Chocolate Chip Gooey Butter Cookies

Get the Chocolate Chip Gooey Butter Cookies recipe by Buns In My Oven

Mini Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Mini Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by How Sweet It Is

Flourless Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies

Get the Flourless Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies recipe by Buns in my Oven

Chocolate Chip and Bacon Cookies

Get the Chocolate Chip and Bacon Cookies recipe by Buns in my Oven

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by Foodiecrush

Smores Cookies

Get the Smores Cookies recipe by Buns in my Oven

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Get the White Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies recipe by How Sweet It Is

Honey-Kissed Chocolate Chip Cookie

Get the Honey-Kissed Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe by fraichement via Food52

Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie

Get the Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe from Gimme Some Oven

Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get the Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe by Buns in my Oven

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Oh what a night!

The 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards brought together television's biggest stars from the past year at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, and there were some incredible red carpet looks that we'll remember for years.

SEE ALSO: Emmys 2017: What the 'Big Little Lies' cast wore on the red carpet

"Big Little Lies" star Nicole Kidman continued her faultless red carpet streak on Sunday night in a red, tea-length gown that was a perfect match for her on her big night. Also lovely in red? "Insecure" star and creator Issa Rae, who wowed in an asymmetrical red frock.

"Feud" actresses Susan Sarandon and Jessica Lange also brought the glamour in their respective looks. Sarandon was stunning in a navy, off-the-shoulder ensemble, while Lange was picture-perfect in a plunging black dress with gold detailing.

Other stars on our Best Dressed list? Yara Shahidi fantastic nude-colored look, Millie Bobby Brown's simple Calvin Klein moment and Sarah Paulson's shimming silver dress.

More from AOL.com:

Alec Baldwin calls out Donald Trump during acceptance speech at 2017 Emmys

Ariel Winter wore her sexiest look ever to the 2017 Emmys

Stephen Colbert eviscerates President Trump in scathing Emmys monologue: 'Imagine if your president wasn't beloved by Nazis'
A model poses at a Michael Costello presentation during New York Fashion Week at Robert Miller Gallery on Sept. 8. (Photo: Robin Marchant/Getty Images)

Designer to the stars Michael Costello is sitting calmly atop a reception desk in a white-walled gallery of Manhattans Chelsea neighborhood when I meet him. Youd never guess his New York Fashion Week spring/summer 2018 presentation is happening in just two days, or maybe thats the laid-back West Coast vibe hes transported with him to frenetic New York.

Nearby, theres a wall being plastered with pink flowers, and a few models whose hair and makeup looks are being finalized. Costello has spent the past six months preparing more than 35 intricate dresses for the upcoming show, all while managing a celebrity clientele, new retail locations, and an Instagram beef or two. Still, the Los Angeleno seems relaxed.

Its likely peanuts compared with the 34-year-olds first experience with dressing Beyonce, after a 2014 chance encounter thats now the stuff of fashion-world legend: Costello, at the invitation of a friend, went to the popular Los Angeles nightclub 1Oak, where youre almost as likely to spot a celebrity as you are an Herve Leger bandage dress. Once inside, Costello realized he was at a table with Jay-Z and Rachel Roy, Sanaa Lathan, Jada Pinkett, Diddy, and Cassie.

I felt so cool, Costello recalls bashfully.

Then came the introduction to Ty Hunter, Beyonces stylist; the subsequent showroom visit; and the purgatory Costello endured between sending dresses to Beyonces team and not knowing whether he would see her in one of his creations on the red carpet.

Beyonce poses in the press room at the 56th Grammy Awards at Staples Center on Jan. 26, 2014, wearing a Michael Costello dress. (Photo: Getty Images)

He did, of course. And the first congratulatory phone call came from Kelly Rowland, followed by Michelle Williams. The moment was surreal for Costello, so to etch it into reality, he got a tattoo with the date of the 2014 Grammy Awards, for which Beyonce wore the dress.

I grew up with Destinys Child, Costello tells Yahoo Lifestyle. My mom and dad will tell you, Hes going to be gay! Hes 15 years old and he wants to be a black woman dancing to No, no, no. Dressing celebrities is cool, but when you grow up with their music and youre a huge fan of their music, its the ultimate, the coolest thing.

Story continues

Now, three years later, and seven years after his Project Runway debut, Costello says his life has changed beyond comprehension. Hes still dressing Beyonce and her family, but hes added a considerable lineup of celebrities to his portfolio: Laverne Cox, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Ciara Harris.

A model poses at a Michael Costello presentation during New York Fashion Week at Robert Miller Gallery on Sept. 8. (Photo: Robin Marchant/Getty Images)

A model poses at a Michael Costello presentation during New York Fashion Week at Robert Miller Gallery on Sept. 8. (Photo: Robin Marchant/Getty Images)

But Costello still pays attention to his non-A-list clients, and keeps a sharp eye on his DMs. Hes notorious for being outspoken on his Instagram, which he manages himself, sometimes to a fault. Most recently, he sparred with social media influencer and onetime Bieber paramour Chantel Jeffries, for her not tagging him in an Instagram post and breaking the unspoken rules of the influencer economy (no thanks here to the Federal Trade Commissions murky guidelines.)

I just think its so important to remember where you started from, what youve achieved, who helped you get there, and always say thank you,' he says. In Chantels case, I knew her when she was only popular for going on a few dates with Justin Bieber and leaking pictures. I dont have anything bad to say about her, aside from saying shes a little ignorant for saying you dont have to tag a brand.

Another thing Costello isnt afraid to speak out about is diversity within fashion. For his presentation, he cast more than a handful of curvy models, one a size 18, at a time when some, but certainly not all, designers are paying attention to the plus-size market.

[Plus-size women] need to feel special. They were never accepted, and for as many designers out there saying they embrace them, designers love dressing a size 2 because its tradition, he says. Buyers love seeing girls in a size 2. But thank God times are changing, because our real customer, shes not a 2 or a 4. She lives in Saudi Arabia, and shes an 8 or a 10 or a 12 or a 14.

Costellos candidness knows no bounds. He says hed push his own politics aside and be honored to dress first lady Melania Trump if the opportunity arose, unlike his Project Runway peer Christian Siriano.

Im the first person in the Gypsy Romanian culture to break those barriers and raise the bar and set an example for the people in my culture in my generation to say its OK to do things and have a passion in something, Costello says. Forget about how everyone hates Trump and thinks [Melania] is an idiot. Its an iconic moment that will go down in history forever, so thats what means more to me.

And Ivanka? Costello feels bad that department stores abandoned her clothing brand following the Grab Your Wallet campaign. Shes not a ditzy girl. Shes a genius and [a] very intelligent businesswoman. Everyone is so judgmental and social media-driven, so if someone says, I hate her, someone else will too. We cant pick our dads.

When I arrive at the gallery on the night of Costellos presentation, the flower wall is finished, and there are almost too many people inside to move, with plenty more on the way. Costellos busy posing for photos with celebrity fans like hip-hop artist Lil Mama, while a swarm of others wait to congratulate him.

It doesnt seem like theres any slowing Costellos growth  at least not based on attendees reactions to his work. And if ever theres a lull, maybe the first ladys stylist will call.

Read more from Yahoo Style + Beauty:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.

Alexandra Mondalek is a writer for Yahoo Style + Beauty. Follow her on Twitter @amondalek.
On Saturday, Cara Delevingne attended Burberrys Spring/Summer 2018 fashion show in London  and she brought along a piece of statement lip jewelry.

The actress and model accessorized her edgy silver pixie cut with mismatched earrings, rose-tinted glasses, and a silver ring for her bottom lip.

Delevingne, 25, has modeled for Burberry over the years, starring in multiple advertising campaigns for the classic British luxury brand  including her very nude 2014 campaign with supermodel Kate Moss.

Of course, theres no confirmation on whether Delevingne actually got her lip pierced or if she pulled a Kim Kardashian West and wore a faux lip ring for a night of punky glamour.

Cheekily, #sexico was chosen as the official hashtag for the birthday girls trip, which included stops in Mexico City, at the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Isla Holbox off the Yucatan Peninsula.

I am so lucky to have such incredible friends, thank you for inspiring and supporting me ladies #Sexico ???????????????????????? A post shared by Cara Delevingne (@caradelevingne) on Aug 11, 2017 at 7:03am PDT

I am so lucky to have such incredible friends, thank you for inspiring and supporting me ladies #Sexico, Delevingne captioned a picture from the trip she shared on Instagram.


Chatbots are vying to become one of the cornerstones of the messaging world: using AI tools like natural language and machine learning, developers are hoping to tap into the popularity of chat apps as a medium of communication to explore new ways to help you get information, buy things, plan your life and more by letting you converse with intelligent computers instead of humans.

In the latest release, presented today at the Hackathon at TC Disrupt in San Francisco, a chatbot is hoping to drop some literary knowledge on the world and create a fun way of getting answers to your most pressing questions about life.

Get thee to a chatbot!

Shakespeare, as the bot is called, is a new messaging bot based on the works of the Bard of Avon. The developers have taken his poems and plays -- which are available open-source -- pulled out all of the most famous lines, and compiled them into a database. They then applied a natural language parser to index and understand the lines. Attaching them to different kinds of intent (for example, food-lunch-dish or here-place-hell), they have turned Shakespeare's lines into potential answers to questions.

The end result is an effective conversation that you can have with a bot that not only speaks with you, but speaks in Shakespeare lines:

Now is the chatbot of our discontent.

A lot of people find chatbots to be more than a little frustrating these days -- understandably so. Many of them don't work as well as you hope they would, and others just seem kind of pointless, AI for no aim that feels better than just using the service that it's trying to replace.

In that context, Shakespeare is more than a novelty play; it has an educational component to it, too. After each line, the reader can click on a link that takes you to the original text that it comes from.

Over time, Shakespeare could also be used for more than just William Shakespeare.

"I want to develop this further, definitely," said Krishna Srinivasan, who co-created the app with Rich Skrenta and Jorge Gonzalez. "Given more than 24 hours," -- it was built at the Hackathon, which started yesterday -- "I would add more famous personalities, like Galileo, Newton, Darwin, Einstein and Gandhi, or other famous authors, or even people you know."

Story continues

The idea of creating bots that are reminiscent of other people is something that has been explored before, such as this chatbot that a friend made as a memorial and memento of someone she loved who had passed away. Srinivasan is also interested and intrigued by this idea.

"Today's demo lifted famous quotes," he said, "but what if we could rephrase answers into new lines, but keep the sense of the original speaker?"

It's an ambitious and hard idea, Srinivasan admitted, but not one that is outside the scope of his and his co-hackers' abilities, with their collective experience covering engineering roles at various startups, Yahoo, Apple and IBM.

The three all worked together at Blekko, a search startup that was eventually acquired by IBM. Skrenta, who had been the founder of Blekko, now is a director at IBM in the Watson group. Srinivasan had been employee number two at Blekko after Skrenta, but then moved on to Apple, before returning to IBM post the acquisition to work with Skrenta again. Gonzalez stayed in touch with them, too, and now is the director of engineering at ClassPass.

Another fun fact: Skrenta was a winner at last year's Hackathon, with a navigation app called SafeRoute.

Here's the video of how Shakespeare works:



https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/themes/techcrunch-2017/features/shortcodes/vidible-callback-js.php?id=22
Just hours before Chester Benningtons death by suicide, the Linkin Park frontman was filmed laughing and joking around with his family, showing that depression doesnt have a face or a mode, his bereft widow said.

My next tweet is the most personal tweet I have ever done, Talinda Bennington, who was married to the musician for 12 years, wrote on Twitter Saturday. She has worked to spread awareness about depression since his July death.

In her following tweet, a 40-second video showed her late husband laughing while sampling trick jelly beans, which were disguised with either sweet or vile flavors.

This is what depression looked like to us just 36 hrs b4 his death. He loved us SO much & we loved him. #fuckdepression #MakeChesterProud pic.twitter.com/VW44eOER4k  Talinda Bennington (@TalindaB) September 16, 2017

After swallowing a rotten eggs flavored one, the father of six dramatically pounds on the table and pretends to throw up while a childs squeal of laughter can be heard. As he walks away he smiles at the camera.

This is what depression looked like to us just 36 hrs b4 his death. He loved us SO much & we loved him, she tweeted along with the video that included the hashtags #fuckdepression and #MakeChesterProud

The video came almost two months after the 41-year-old took his life at his Southern California home while his band was touring with their latest album. In past interviews, he had spoken of having suicidal thoughts after being a victim of child abuse. He also spoke of abusing drugs and alcohol.

His 15-year-old son, Draven Bennington, also spoke out against suicide this week in videos posted on behalf of National Suicide Prevention Week.

I want to make a commitment that I will talk to someone before I hurt myself when Im feeling depressed, sad or going through a hard week, month or year, he says as his dads song, Numb, plays in the background. I want to challenge you to do the same  to help yourself, not hurt yourself.

Story continues

If you or someone you know needs help, call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also text HELLO to 741-741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of resources.

Related...

Chester Bennington Taught Me To Scream

Chester Bennington's Wife Releases Heartbreaking Statement Following His Death

California Artist Honors Chester Bennington With Stunning Mural

Jared Leto Honors Chester Bennington At VMAs With Touching Speech

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump spoke about keeping pressure on North Korea with economic sanctions imposed through the United Nations, the White House said in a statement on Monday. The United States and South Korea and separately Russia together with China, carried out military drills in a show of force against North Korea, which has defied U.N. Security Council resolutions to conduct nuclear tests and ballistic missile tests. Trump and Xi spoke on the phone days after Trump and his aides publicly discussed potential military action against North Korea. On Friday, while delivering an address at a military base outside of Washington, Trump said he was "more confident than ever that our options in addressing this threat are both effective and overwhelming." Trump is attending the annual United Nations General Assembly in New York this week, while Xi is not. North Korea's nuclear threat is likely to loom large on the agenda. The two leaders also discussed Trump's coming China visit, the Xinhua News Agency said. "Xi said China and the United States share extensive common interests and have seen sound momentum of exchanges and cooperation in various areas at present," Xinhua said. Xi called on both sides to work closely to ensure a fruitful trip and inject new impetus into the development of Sino-U.S. relations, the report said. "The Chinese leader said he is happy to maintain communications with the U.S. leader on a regular basis over topics of mutual concern," it said. Trump will likely visit China in November as part of a trip that will take him to an ASEAN summit in the Philippines and an APEC summit in Vietnam. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard and James Oliphant; editing by Andrew Roche and Grant McCool)
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - The Mexican military fought back against an armed attack in the violent southwestern state of Guerrero on Saturday night, leaving eight suspected gang members and one soldier dead, authorities said on Sunday. At around 11 p.m., troops were making their rounds in the city of Teloloapan, about 155 miles (250 km) from Mexico City, when they came under gunfire from suspected gang members dressed in fake military uniforms, Roberto Alvarez Heredia, a spokesman for the Guerrero Coordinating Group, said in a statement. The military secured two vans painted in camouflage, weapons and uniforms, authorities said. A soldier was wounded in the confrontation and died afterward from his injuries. The public prosecutor's office in Guerrero, home to the resort city of Acapulco on Mexico's Pacific coast, has begun an investigation into the attack, authorities said. Violence has spiked in Guerrero over the past decade as a growing number of criminal gangs vie for control of crops of opium poppies and for drug-trafficking routes. (Reporting by Adriana Barrera and Julia Love; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)
WASHINGTON  Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), an early and loyal supporter of President Donald Trump, likes to make noise about the liberal medias coverage of climate change, often dismissing it as fake news.

In February, however, this vocal denier of near-universally accepted climate science promoted a story about a climate data manipulation scandal that is about as flawed as they come.

The British tabloid The Daily Mail was forced to run a lengthy statement acknowledging the inaccuracies of a story it claimed to be the biggest scientific scandal since Climategate. The publication failed to take care over the accuracy of the article or correct significantly misleading statements, according to a statement released this week from the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), a media watchdog in the United Kingdom.

The story was published in February with the headline, Exposed: How World Leaders Were Duped Into Investing Billions Over Manipulated Global Warming Data. In it, journalist David Rose wrote that high-level whistleblower John Bates, a retired scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations National Centers for Environmental Information, had revealed that the federal agency breached its own rules on scientific integrity when it published a sensational but flawed report that exaggerated global warming and was timed to influence the historic Paris Agreement on climate change.

Convinced that NOAA cooked its books, Rep. Smith pounced on the opportunity. In a press release titled, Former NOAA Scientist Confirms Colleagues Manipulated Climate Records, as well as a series of Twitter posts, the chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology accused the federal agency  yet again  of playing fast and loose with data and the Obama administration of pushing its costly climate agenda.

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) has a history of attacking federal climate scientists. (Photo: Scott J. Ferrell via Getty Images)

The 2015 study, led by NOAA scientist Thomas Karl and published in the journal Science, found that an apparent slowing trend, or hiatus, in the rate of global warming from 1998 to 2012 was the result of its own biased data. The agency corrected its analysis to account for differences between ships measurements and those of more accurate at-sea buoys, which increased the estimated rate of warming over the previous 15 years.

Story continues

At a committee hearing two days after The Daily Mails story came out  a hearing that was supposed to focus on Making EPA Great Again  Smith blasted NOAA scientists, who he said cheated and got caught, and demanded the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) redact the NOAA study.

Bates later took issue with the Daily Mail story, telling E&E News that the issue here is not an issue of tampering with data, but rather really of timing of a release of a paper that had not properly disclosed everything it was. And AAAS chief executive Rush Holt, a former member of Congress from New Jersey, told Smith at the committee hearing that the Daily Mail story is not the making of a big scandal.

This is an internal dispute between two factions within an agency, he said. Theres nothing in the paper, the Karl paper, that at our current analysis suggests retraction.

Reached via email on Monday, House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology spokeswoman Thea McDonald said that IPSOs criticisms of the Daily Mail story focused on Mr. Roses characterization of Dr. Bates concerns  its investigation did not assess Dr. Bates legitimate questions about the integrity of the data included in the Karl study in any way.

McDonald added that the Science committees probe into the matter has always been about getting to the bottom of whistleblowers concerns about the data underlying the Karl study.

The facts of the committees investigation, which began more than a year before the Daily Mail article was published, remain unchanged, she wrote. Obama administration NOAA officials repeatedly obstructed congressional oversight requests, including a subpoena, which agency officials refused to comply with before finally beginning to produce some responsive documents. The committee looks forward to receiving the remaining requested documents and conducting an objective review.

Smiths February statement thanking Bates for courageously stepping forward to tell the truth about NOAAs senior officials playing fast and loose with the data in order to meet a politically predetermined conclusion remains unchanged on his congressional website. McDonald did not answer HuffPosts question about whether he planned to remove it.

From the get-go, the Daily Mail story received widespread criticism. Smith has yet to acknowledge that independent researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, published a study that it says confirms the accuracy of the Karl paper, further eroding a favorite argument among climate deniers.

The GOP congressman, who has received more than $700,000 in donations from the oil and gas industry since 1989, has been on a years-long crusade  or witch hunt, as some have called it  to discredit all-but-universally accepted climate science. In 2015, after NOAA published its study updating the global temperature record, Smith harassed agency scientists, issuing subpoenas to obtain communications related to their analysis. He has also used his power as chairman of the science committee to push his anti-science views, and gone as far as to argue that pumping the atmosphere full of carbon dioxide is beneficial to global trade, crop production and the lushness of the planet.

Read the Independent Press Standards Organisations full ruling here.

Also on HuffPost

Our carbon footprint says it all.

This graph shows the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, as measured at Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, from 1958 to today. In September, scientists at Mauna Loa announced that C02 levels had likely surpassed the threshold of 400 parts per million permanently.

Year over year, the trend becomes more obvious.

This graphic by climate scientist Ed Hawkins shows 167 maps of temperature change from 1850 to 2016.

Spiralling global temperatures | updated to August 2016: https://t.co/rPSSxkS2mn pic.twitter.com/yMo0GNAsxk  Ed Hawkins (@ed_hawkins) September 30, 2016

2016 #Arctic sea ice minimum ties with 2007 for 2nd lowest. https://t.co/BGLZYZvGMY pic.twitter.com/vJghT6HGDc  Arctic Sea Ice News (@NSIDC_ArcticIce) September 15, 2016

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
The president of Lipscomb University invited African American students over to his Nashville home for dinner Friday, where he had cotton stalks as centerpieces. After the students deemed the tableware offensive, he issued an apology.

President L. Randolph Lowry, who is white, invited black students to his home for dinner to discuss their experiences at Lipscomb, according to a Facebook post. The students noticed his dinner table was laden with cotton stalks, which offended them, according to the post. Lowry apologized through a campus-wide email.

"The content of the centerpieces was offensive, and I could have handled the situation with more sensitivity," he wrote. "I sincerely apologize for the discomfort, anger or disappointment we caused and solicit your forgiveness."

Lowery invited the students over to discuss the school, which has a student population that is roughly 77 percent white, 7 percent African-American and 6 percent Latino, according to a diversity report. Nashville, where Lipscomb is located, is predominately white at 65 percent, with a 26 percent black population.

Amid controversies concerning confederate memorabilia in U.S. cities, Nashville rejected a proposal for the removal of a monument of former Klu Klux Klan leader Confederate Lieutenant General Nathan Bedford Forrest from its state Capitol Sept. 1, USA Today reported.

Multiple students confided in him regarding his centerpieces, the president stated. A conversation between himself and the students about the centerpieces is needed, Lowry said.

"I have heard from a number of students who would like to spend more time together engaging in conversation," said Lowry. "I am most pleased to do so either in small groups or individually."





"As we arrived to the president's home and proceeded to go in we seen cotton as the center pieces," a student identified as Nakayla Yvonne wrote under a picture she took of the centerpiece on Instagram. "We also stood and ate dinner, there were no seats to sit in and it felt very uncomfortable.

Story continues

"We were very offended, and also the meals that were provided resembled many "black meals" they had mac n cheese, collard greens, corn bread etc. The night before Latinos also had dinner at his house and they had tacos. They also DIDN'T have the center piece that we HAD tonight."

Lipscomb University is a private, liberal arts school affiliated with the Churches of Christ, according to the schools website. It has an acceptance rate of 55 percent, as of 2014. The schools tuition is listed at just over $28,000 with a total enrollment of 4,018 students.

Related Articles
A Georgia Tech student was shot and killed by campus police after authorities say the student refused to put down a knife.

Scout Schultz, 21, continued to advance on officers with the Georgia Tech Police Department outside a dormitory just after midnight Sunday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said in a statement.

Police had responded to a 911 call of a person with a knife and a gun, the GBI said.

Officers said they repeatedly tried to talk to Schultz, but the fourth-year engineering major was described as uncooperative, the GBI said.

As Schultz continued to advance, one officer fired.

Schultz was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, and later died.

No officer was injured during the incident.

Read: Man Shot by Police in Domestic-Related Incident Outside Baggage Claim at Texas Airport: Cops

Video taken of the shooting shows officers repeatedly telling Schultz to drop the weapon as they advance.

Come on man, lets drop the knife, an officer with his gun drawn tells Schultz.

Shoot me! the student replies.

The officer backs up, moving behind a parking barricade as he says, Nobody wants to hurt you, man.

They continue their exchange before Schultz takes three more steps toward an officer and gunfire erupts.

The GBI announced it has launched an independent investigation into the shooting.

Schultz was the president of the Pride Alliance group on campus. Schultz self-identified as non-binary, meaning neither female nor male, and used the pronoun they to refer to themself.

Read: Counselor Talks 14-Year-Old Student Out of Using Gun He Brought to Middle School

We are all deeply saddened by what has occurred. They have been the driving force behind Pride Alliance for the past two years, the Pride Alliance said in a statement. Their leadership allowed us to create change across campus and in the Atlanta community. Scout always reminded us to think critically about the intersection of identities and how a multitude of factors play into one's experience on Tech's campus and beyond. We love you Scout and we will continue to push for change.

Story continues

Schultz's family has hired an attorney, claiming police failed to use non-lethal force to resolve the encounter, WGCL-TV reported.

Citing the state investigation into the actions of its officers, Georgia Tech declined to comment on the incident to The Washington Post, but a spokesman told the paper it was a tragic death.

A vigil for Schultz is planned for Monday evening.

Watch: Fiance of Minneapolis Yoga Teacher Demands Answers After Cop Fatally Shoots Her

Related Articles:
Newlyweds Amanda and Sean Magee after their Asheville, North Carolina, city hall elopement. (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

Amanda Magee first met her now-husband Sean five years ago while working at the department store Belk in Mooresville, North Carolina. Sean was there buying cologne and the two got to talking. Sparks flew right off the bat.

I had never felt that before, Amanda told HuffPost. There was just something about him. I dont say it to sound mushy and hopelessly romantic, but it was unlike anything I had ever experienced.

Amanda wanted to ask for his number but decided against it. She did, however, hold onto a receipt with Seans name on it, hoping their paths might cross again.

Looking back he said I had creeper status for doing that, jokingly, of course, she told HuffPost. A couple weeks went by and I happened to be working a night shift when Sean came in. This time he was buying a gift card for his dads birthday. We talked for a long time and exchanged numbers so I could bring my car in for an oil change at the shop he owns.

A photo of the couple from early on in their relationship. (Photo: Courtesy of the couple)

And the rest, as they say, is history. On June 7, Amanda and Sean eloped at the city hall in Asheville, North Carolina  one of their favorite places to visit, just two hours away from their home in Sherrills Ford.

Love looks good on these two. (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

We love the town of Asheville itself. We love walking around the beautiful downtown area and eating at all the delicious restaurants, the bride said. We have great memories of visiting Asheville already, so why not go there and elope? Were always taking mini day trips to get away and relax.

Below, hear more about the couples intimate city hall nuptials and see images from the day, captured by Blue Bend Photography. And be sure to follow along with us as we profile couples marrying at city halls around the country for HuffPosts Listen To America bus tour.

Why did you decide to marry at city hall?

Amanda Magee: We didnt need all the fluff and flowers. We wanted an experience we could remember and always revisit. I hear so many people talk about how their wedding day was a blur and they cant remember much. I didnt want that.

Story continues

I wanted it to be intimate and personal. I wanted to be able to remember holding his hands as we exchanged vows. I wanted to remember kissing our first kiss as husband and wife. I wanted to remember laughing when I couldnt get his wedding band on his finger. I wanted to remember wiping my tears as he looked into my eyes saying he would love me forever. It all unfolded so naturally. It actually was perfect. We were able to do it on our schedule.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

The bride told HuffPost the thing she loves most about her groom is his big heart. "He would do anything for anybody. He comes from a very loving and supportive family that believes in values and doing right by people." (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

The couple also took portraits at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

Who did you invite?

Both our parents knew we wanted to elope. They didnt give any objections and blessed our decision. We had our really good friends Austin and Rebecca meet us at city hall as our witnesses since they live in the area. They love Asheville as much as we do and were thrilled when we asked them to be a part of our special day.

What did you wear and did it have any special significance?

I wore a beautiful lace and tulle knee-length dress that I absolutely loved! I had been to multiple dress shops and couldnt find the one dress that I felt like myself in. I kept ordering dresses and ordering dresses, hoping I could have it altered or it would be the right size but nothing was working. Then one day I saw THE DRESS. It was beautiful and sexy, yet still feminine at the same time. It fit my personality. I was on Belk.com, of all places, searching formal dresses. I ordered it and prayed it would be the one. I knew as soon as I pulled it out of the box it was my dress  and it was!

Love was in the air. (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

What did you do after the ceremony?

We ate at a charming little restaurant called Rezaz Mediterranean Cuisine afterward. I dont know who couldnt stop smiling more  me or him. We were absorbed in this love bubble. Even at the restaurant, it was like we were in our little corner of the world. We were reminiscing on all that had just transpired. Still being dressed up in our wedding attire made it more magical. Sean also surprised me with a room at the Biltmore Village Inn for us to spend our honeymoon night  which, I must say, is a very romantic bed and breakfast. I could go on and on. I could not have asked for a better day.

What was your favorite part about the wedding day?

Truthfully, the entire experience was my favorite. We were able to do things our way. We were able to spend time together the day of our wedding before the ceremony. We enjoyed sleeping in and eating breakfast together. We laughed at each other in our hotel room as we were frantically trying to get ready because my hair appointment took too long. I was so nervous at the courthouse that my feet were sweating and I was slipping out of my heels. We had pictures taken at the Biltmore house and they are absolutely beautiful. They represent all the magic our day encompassed.

Having an intimate elopement allowed the couple to really savor the moment. (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

Now that's a view! (Photo: Blue Bend Photography)

What do you love most about Asheville?

What we love most is the feeling that surrounds the city. Its very tranquil when the sun starts to set behind the mountains, casting gorgeous colors across the sky. A feeling of peace appears in the air.

MORE FROM LISTEN TO AMERICA

Bride Gets Back To Her Roots With Sweet St. Louis City Hall Wedding

College Sweethearts Wed In A Perfectly Sweet Memphis City Hall Wedding

Two Very Different Communities Show What It Can Look Like To Accept Trans Kids

Also on HuffPost

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
By Susan Cornwell WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic leaders in the U.S. Congress on Monday demanded that lawmakers wait to find out the budgetary and healthcare impacts of a new, last-ditch legislative effort by Republicans to repeal Obamacare before voting on it. In their long-running war on former President Barack Obama's signature healthcare law, Senate Republicans are now proposing to replace it with a system that would give states money in block grants to run their own healthcare programs. Drafted by Republican Senators Lindsey Graham and Bill Cassidy, the bill was introduced last week. Graham and Cassidy said they were close to securing the votes needed for passage, but the bill's outlook was uncertain. If approved, it would replace the 2010 Affordable Care Act, known informally as Obamacare, which Republicans have long seen as government overreach into the healthcare business. The Graham-Cassidy measure has revived a fight that many in Washington thought was over when an Obamacare repeal-and-replace bill flopped in the Senate in July, humiliating Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and President Donald Trump. The Congressional Budget Office, a non-partisan fiscal analysis unit of Congress, said Monday it will make a preliminary assessment of the bill's impact next week. But it said it won't be able to estimate the impact on the deficit or changes in insurance coverage or premiums for several weeks. Worried Democrats seized on the statement to urge Republicans to wait for a full CBO score before holding a vote. "Have the courage and decency to wait for a CBO score," Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor on Monday. The House of Representatives is on a break this week. Schumer called Graham-Cassidy a "Frankenstein monster of a bill" that would be costly for some states. He said Democrats would use every procedural tool to slow or stop its passage. Stock prices fell for small hospital chains that have high corporate debt loads and that likely would be hurt under the plans probable decrease in government payments for patients. Community Health Systems fell 37 cents, or 5 percent, to $7.24 and Tenet Healthcare was off 98 cents, or 6 percent, at $15.76 in late afternoon trading. A delay to wait for a CBO analysis is something Republicans can ill afford since in two weeks Senate procedural rules will make it much more difficult for them to advance the legislation. A special parliamentary procedure that would allow the bill to move forward in the Senate with only 51 votes will expire in two weeks. After that, it would need 60 votes, like most Senate legislation. Republicans have a slim 52-vote Senate majority. CONCERNS RAISED Trump has been telephoning members of Congress in recent days urging action on dismantling Obamacare. McConnell has not promised to bring Graham-Cassidy to the floor for a vote, but he asked CBO for a quick assessment of it. Not all the Senate's conservatives back the bill. Senator Rand Paul said it did not go far enough to repeal Obamacare. Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana told reporters he was worried that the bill would allow some states to set up their own single-payer healthcare system. Republican senators John McCain, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, all of whom voted against the last Republican effort to repeal Obamacare, were said by aides to be undecided on the latest proposal. Collins told reporters she was still analyzing the measure but listed several concerns, including possibly higher insurance premiums for older Americans. She said the Maine Hospital Association calculated her state would receive a billion dollars less in Medicaid and other federal healthcare spending over the next decade under the bill, and "that obviously is of great concern to me." But if it can get through the Senate, the plan may have a chance in the House of Representatives, also run by Republicans. Past Republican proposals to dismantle Obamacare have been hampered, in part, by CBO estimates that showed the bills would have left millions more Americans without health insurance. Obama's healthcare reform provided health benefits to 20 million Americans. Since its passage, Republicans have sought to undermine it. But the party has failed to repeal Obamacare or enact a replacement system, despite controlling the Senate, the House and the White House since the November 2016 elections. (Additional reporting by Makini Brice, Roberta Rampton, Caroline Humer and Richard Cowan; Editing by Alistair Bell and Cynthia Osterman)
Over the past few years, there has been a steadily increasing trend for brides to be the "Cool Bride." To find unique gowns, with eclectic elements and details, all in the pursuit of the extraordinary. And most of the time, this is awesome! It's great to break boundaries and explore different possibilities. But some brides may not want to wear a bedazzled, fringed kaftan! And if that's you, read on for five wedding dress designers that are keeping it timeless and classic.

Sawyer Baird

Rebecca Schoneveld These gowns are all made in Brooklyn, New York which just adds to their down-to-earth vibe. The designer herself just wants her brides to feel free and authentic- none of this striving to be ultra-cool. Her collection strives for inclusivity, which caters to brides of every shape and size (can I get an Amen!), through allowing simple customizations to their existing collection. A fun, free, feminine aesthetic makes for simply a great gown choice.

Summer Street Photography

Watters For the classic, streamlined wedding dress, Watters is your best bet! They have a few different collections at a few different price-points, so you're likely to find something to suit all your desires! With the utilization of simple, stunning laces and impeccably constructed gowns, this brand is ideal for the bride who is all about fit and class. Have a peek around their website and you'll notice that they're stocked globally as their aesthetic works worldwide!

Marquise Bridal Based out of Melbourne, this brand does not subscribe to current bridal trends, but rather transcends them and exudes classic glamour and elegance. Marquise uses a lot of luxe, high-end fabrics in figure-flattering silhouettes. While definitely cool-bride worthy, these gowns are timeless, and will remain your favorite years after you walk down the aisle!

Emilia Jane Photography

Samantha Sleeper Another Brooklyn based designer, Samantha Sleeper is the epitome of dreamy and ethereal. Although they do create collections, the main aspect of the brand is their incredible custom pieces. They landed on this list for their authentic approach to design: beginning a dialogue with each bride and analyzing what they want and translating it to a stunning, finished piece. Delicate embroideries, floral embellishments, and laces characterize their line and set them apart from many current designers.

Story continues

Amy Arrington Photography

Hayley Paige 'Now, Hayley Paige could definitely be considered a cool-bride designer. She has a collection of "holy-matrimojis", so she might just be the queen of cool! But recently, I've been seeing the decline of the ballgown in favor of brides turning to more figure-hugging silhouettes in an effort not to look princessy. However, if your goal is to be the belle of the ball, Hayley Paige is for you! Her gowns are big, vivacious and overall gorgeous, and unique while staying timeless and beautiful. Style Me Pretty Contributor - Goli Parvinian is a bridal enthusiast and masters student living in Melbourne, Australia. Over the past few years, she has worked for bridal brands in her hometown of Chicago, New Zealand and New York City. You can typically find her in a cafe, face-timing her nieces or out on a long run.
Doctor Hazel spent the last 24 hours at TechCrunch Disrupt's SF 2017 hackathon working on an interesting idea to use artificial intelligence to detect cancerous moles.

Software engineer Mike Borozdin proposed the idea of using artificial intelligence to determine if a mole was cancerous or not to his friend and fellow of Intel Software Innovators Peter Ma a few days ago. The team soon bought a high-powered endoscope camera on Amazon for $30, set up a website and got to work.

Doctor Hazel works by first going onto the website, uploading your concerning mole and then getting your result within seconds. Should the AI think what you've got is cancerous, it will then recommend you see a doctor for further testing.

The team tried the system on a strange red patch I've suddenly developed and determined with a 74 percent confidence it was a non-cancerous mole. Though, Ma and Borozdin did caution this system has only been up for a day and might not have enough information so I'm still going to get it checked out later.

Note that there are already a number of apps used to diagnose skin conditions like FirstDerm and SkinVision. Those usually work by first taking a picture of the skin area in question, paying a certain amount to submit it to the app and then waiting for a skin doctor to get back to you with a diagnosis.

Obviously, it's early days and Doctor Hazel isn't set up to diagnose anyone just yet. Rather, the goal is to hopefully get people to volunteer their strange skin conditions to help improve the system.

The platform currently pulls from 8,000 variables to determine four different outcomes: nothing, a mole, melanoma or some other type of cancer.

Eventually the startup will have an app and possibly come with an image capture device the team can sell to doctors and hospitals to help them filter out non-cancerous moles in real-time, thus saving both patient and physician time, money and worry.

The main hurdle right now is getting the data needed to help Doctor Hazel predict skin cancer with at least a 90 percent accuracy. "There's a huge problem in getting AI data for medicine. Its painful to get the data, even from large institutions. No one wants to share, says Borozdin. "But amazing results are possible.The more people share, the more accurate the system becomes."
The President boasted that he saw potential in the building, and that it has been successful: REUTERS/Joshua Roberts

Donald Trump has begun his first speech to the United Nations General Assembly with a plug for one of the many properties with his name on the building, just across the street.

I actually saw great potential right across the street, to be honest with you, and it was only for the reason that the United nations was here that that turned out to be such a successful project, Mr Trump said just after thanking those attending the meeting on UN reform.

Trump World Tower sits just across 1st Avenue from the United Nations. The building towers 72 floors high, but lists 90 stories on elevator panels. The building has boasted several prominent residents since its construction finished in 2001, including New York Yankees star Derek Jeter, Kellyanne Conway, and others.

The tower has also been used for staging during filming for some episodes of Mr Trumps television show The Apprentice, which was first aired during the winter and spring of 2004. Mr Trump hosted that show franchise for 14 years before leaving to run for President.

But, while Mr Trump has boasted that he actually owns the skyscraper, a report by Bloomberg just after his election noted that his interests in the building are residual at this point.

Bloomberg has also noted that construction in the building relied at least in part on condominium sales to individuals with ties to former Soviet republics. That included big buyers from Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, according to the sales agent who filled the tower.

Related:

For more news videos visit Yahoo View, available on iOS and Android.
Gosia Labno remembers the night police suddenly turned up as she hung out with friends at a high school party. Panic immediately washed over her.

Labno wasn't worried about getting a citation for underage drinking or being grounded. For her, the consequences were potentially far more serious. If police singled her out and asked for identification, she faced the possibility of being deported.

Labno, a Polish national, is undocumented. But her worst fears weren't realized that night.

"I think as a white girl I just got let off the hook...If I was Hispanic it couldve been different," Labno tells Newsweek.

Today, Labno is among the hundreds of thousands of "Dreamers" facing the prospect of leaving the only home they've ever really known after President Donald Trump moved to end DACA, the Obama-era program that protects people brought into the U.S. illegally as children from being deported. Approximately 800,000 people have been approved for DACA since it began and roughly 690,000 are currently enrolled in the program, according to the latest federal figures. They could all face deportation, regardless of their skin color or country of origin, if Congress doesn't take action before March, when Trump plans to begin phasing DACA's protections out.

Labno might not be the person who police stop on the street and ask for documents, but she knows the fear of being forced from her home. Labno, now 25, came to the United States from Poland back in 2001 when she was nine years old. Her mother wanted to reunite with family already living in the U.S.

They settled in Chicago, where Labno still lives today. For the most part, the assimilation process wasn't very difficult for her. She already spoke English and Chicago was a diverse place where immigrants were generally pretty welcome. Because of her pale skin, most people never considered the possibility of her being undocumented.

"Friends would ask why you dont have a state ID, why dont you work, why dont you have a job," Labno says. When she revealed her situation, she was often met with shock. People couldn't seem to wrap their head around the idea that white people can be undocumented, too.

Story continues

Labno doesn't describe herself as an activist, but became far more vocal on social media about her politics when Trump got elected. This led to backlash online.

"The morning after Trump won the election I got so many tweets from random people that said, 'Youre going to get deported. You think youre safe because youre white, but youre not,'" Labno says.

Labno can't imagine being sent back to Poland and hasn't prepared for the possibility whatsoever.

"The only way to get me out of this country is to deport me -- Im not going to self-deport. As cruel as this administration and country have been to [Dreamers], this is our home," she said.

"Dreamers" refers to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, but not all Dreamers are current DACA recipients.

Dreamers get their name from the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, a bill that aimed to grant legal status to young immigrants brought here illegally by their parents.

President Barack Obama wasn't able to push the DREAM Act through Congress, which ultimately prompted him to institute DACA via an executive action in 2012 after years of activists calling for greater civil rights for undocumented immigrants.

Along with preventing deportations, DACA also provides recipients with a work permit, allows them to enroll in college and to obtain valid driver's licenses. Recipients are able to apply for a renewal after two years.

14_09_DACA_Obama

Getty Images

The vast majority of DACA recipients -- more than 618,000 -- have hailed from Mexico, according to the latest available figures. But roughly 200,000 come from everywhere from India to Jamaica, despite a national immigration debate that tends to focus on Latino immigrants.

"I want to get up on the biggest microphone ever and say immigration is an issue that affects more than just Latinos...We come in all genders, all shapes and sizes," says Tony Choi, who was born in South Korea and now lives in New York City.

Choi, 28, moved to the U.S. in 1998 when he was nine. At the time, East Asia was crippled by a major economic crisis. Choi's family was among those hit the hardest.

My father owned a small business -- a lumber factory. With the financial crisis, we lost everything. We lost our business, we lost our home," Choi says. I still remember coming home one day and seeing everything covered in pink stickers because the bank had foreclosed on our house."

The family moved in with his grandmother, who abused his mother. His father couldn't find work. It was humiliating. Soon, Choi's family packed up and moved to the U.S. to seek opportunity.

Choi's family first ended up in Hawaii. "I sat in school all day and stared out the window," Choi says. "I had no friends, it was very difficult. It was just me and my sister. My parents were out working all day."

Not long after moving to America, Choi's parents split up. Eventually, his family made to New Jesey, where the situation wasn't much better. Choi didn't know English and struggled to grasp American culture. At one point, a teacher ripped into him for not looking her in the eye. Choi was just trying to be polite. In Korea, making eye contact is rude.

17_09_Tony_Choi

Tony Choi

DACA changed Choi's life.

"I still remember getting [DACA]. It didnt feel real that I got this document that said I had legal presence in America -- it was a huge relief," Choi says. "It felt that everything my family had worked for, all the challenges my mom, my sister and I went through, things were finally working.

The day Trump's DACA decision was announced, Choi attended four separate rallies in New York City. "I turned on my battle mode," he says. "The constant rhetoric against immigrants and Asian-Americans sometimes make me feel that I dont quite belong here. But, in my heart of hearts I feel that I belong [in America], with my friends, with my family, with the life Ive built around me."

Choi works for 18 Million Rising, an organization that focuses on empowering Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

The fact Choi is both employed and a DACA recipient is not unique. Roughly 91 percent of all DACA recipients collectively pay roughly $2 billion a year in taxes.

"What is the argument for us to go back to the informal sector so the U.S. can never see the tax dollars from our work?" Choi says.

For Choi, going to back to South Korea would also mean having to join the military, where 21 months of service is mandatory for all males between the ages of 18 and 35.

Choi is openly gay and same-sex activity is a crime in the South Korean military. In recent months, the South Korean military has arrested dozens of gay soldiers in what human rights groups have referred to as a "gay witch-hunt." Choi doesn't want to get caught up in this. Im really afraid of what might happen," he says.

To convince lawmakers to save DACA, Choi contends there needs to be increased awareness about how diverse Dreamers are. He's concerned people don't realize how many people and groups are impacted by Trump's decision.

Asian immigrants account for an estimated 1.6 million of the roughly 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S, according to a University of California, Riverside project called AAPI Data. Meanwhile, there are roughly 575,000 black undocumented immigrants in the U.S., according to a report from the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI) and the NYU School of Law. In all, black immigrants make up around 7.2 percent of the noncitizen population in the U.S., but comprise 20.3 percent of immigrants facing deportation before the Executive Office for Immigration Review on criminal grounds, according to the BAJI report.

Joel Sati, 24, came to the U.S. from Kenya when he was 9-years-old. With few opportunities in Kenya, Sati's mother decided to move the family to the U.S. in 2002. At his school in Maryland, the other children had a certain idea of what being from an African country meant and he was often bullied.

"There still is an underrepresentation of black undocumented immigrant stories," he says.

15_09_Joel_Sati

Joel Sati

Sati is now a grad student at the University of California, Berkeley, where he studies jurisprudence and social policy. He doesn't consider America his home, in part because he says he never truly felt welcome. "I have built a life here, but there are also aspects of my experience that make it apparent that Im a stranger here," Sati says.

For Sati, who's been a DACA recipient since 2012, the concept of moving back to Kenya is so foreign he says he can't bring himself to even think about it. He might not feel accepted by America, but that doesn't mean he looks to his country of birth as home. This is where the community he's built around him lives -- and he doesnt want to leave them.

14_09_DACA_immigrants_Trump_Mexico

Getty Images

For Bartosz Kumor, having white skin helped make for an easier tranistion to the U.S. He moved from Poland in 1994 with his grandmother when he was 10. They were reuniting with other family members already living here. G.I. Joe and Nintendo quickly became staples of his childhood. In the summer, he visited amusement parks.

Kumor, 33, now lives in Detroit. He knows his life in the U.S. has been easy, despite not having legal status, in part because he is white.

"People of color, particularly black and brown people, face challenges from our legal system, from the enforcement of our immigration laws, from ICE, that I dont face. Whether it is profiling or legal protections, I simply dont face the same challenges," he says.

Kumor lived in the U.S. legally for a long period, primarily on a student visa, but that expired when he finished law school. He was ultimately able to apply for DACA and was accepted, which meant he regained legal status.

He said he can barely fathom what it would mean to lose legal status in the U.S. and have to go back to Poland.

"Almost every friend I have, almost every person I deeply care about, lives here. My entire career is here...I cant imagine my life anywhere but here. This is home," he says.

Related Articles
The biggest names in television are bringing their style A-games!

The 69th annual Primetime Emmy Awards kicked off on Sunday night and brought together Hollywood's hottest stars for a star-studded evening that featured top notch looks.

SEE ALSO: Emmy Awards in the 1950s, '60s and '70s: See glamorous throwback photos

The "Big Little Lies" stars didn't disappoint with their red carpet ensembles, with actresses Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Shailene Woodley and Zoe Kravitz all rocking beautiful looks that suited each of their own personalities and styles.

Jane Fonda, 79, stepped out looking half her age in a hot pink look and a high ponytail -- we almost didn't recognize her!

Other notable looks came from last year's big winner Sarah Paulson in a shimmering silver look, "Modern Family" actresses Sofia Vergara and Ariel Winter, "Feud" co-stars Susan Sarandon and Jessica Lange and many more.

See all of the 2017 Emmys red carpet looks:



More from AOL.com:

2017 Emmys: Date, time, complete guide, nominees

2017 Emmy predictions: Who will win and who should win

Emmy Awards 2017: All the Outstanding Actor and Outstanding Actress nominees
With 2017 pretty much the real-life version of the This is fine meme, the Emmy Awards were bound to get political  especially with Stephen Colbert as the host.

And neither he nor the various winners disappointed. From the opening number, which featured a call for political action from Chance the Rapper, to a wry reference to the president from Alec Baldwin, to a shocking cameo by a former administration official, these Emmys really went there.

It wasnt all politics, of course. There was funny banter, there were heartwarming moments, there were cocktails.

Here are our highs and lows from this years Emmys.

HIGH: Alec Baldwin is Trumps Emmy proxy

Donald Trump is Emmy-less no more! Well  his Saturday Night Live doppleganger isnt, at least. Alec Baldwin picked up his statue for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy and alerted POTUS right off the top, At long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy. Baldwin also joked the orange wig that he wears as Trump has functioned as an ideal means of birth control before ending his speech on a serious note. For all of you out there in motion pictures and television, dont stop doing what youre doing  the audience is counting on you.  Ethan Alter

HIGH: Sterling gets the gold

Its been 19 years since a black actor has won the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series Emmy. And Sterling K. Brown had a personal message for the man who preceded him on the stage, Andre Braugher. Whether it is at Stanford University or on this stage, it is my supreme honor to follow in your footsteps. He also gave a hilarious shout-out to his This Is Us family, calling them the best white TV family that a brother has ever had, better than Mr. Drummond, better than the white folks that raised Webster. Unfortunately, he was also a victim of one of the nights big losers  that overeager orchestra. For more on that, read on.  EA

LOW: Cutting the winners (really) short

(Credit: CBS)

Awards show orchestras are notorious for their itchy trigger fingers, playing off winners when theyre still in midspeech. And this years Emmy orchestra was quick, too quick, to clear the stage, interrupting heartfelt speeches by Laura Dern, Kate McKinnon, and Ann Dowd, among others. (On the other hand, Derns Big Little Lies co-star Nicole Kidman was allowed nearly three minutes to speak her mind without interruption.) That definitely wasnt music to our ears.  EA

Story continues

HIGH: Diverse firsts

Donald Glover and Lena Waithe (Photo: Getty Images)

The 69th Primetime Emmy Awards ensured theyd be enshrined forever in Emmy history with a pair of groundbreaking, and wholly deserving, wins. Early in the evening, Atlanta creator Donald Glover became the first African-American director in TV history to win Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series. (Glovers Outstanding Actor in a Comedy win was also the first for a black actor in that category since Robert Guillaume in 1985.) Later on Master of Nones Lena Waithe chalked up the first victory for an African-American woman in the Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series category for her autobiographical episode, Thanksgiving.  EA

LOW: In Memoriam MIAs

Harry Dean Stanton (right) in Twin Peaks. (Photo: Showtime)

Really, Emmys? You remember Roger Ailess passing but leave Harry Dean Stanton, Dick Gregory, and Sam Shepard out of the In Memoriam reel? (And dont even get us started on those weird picture frames.) Other lost artists that were sadly overlooked include Charlie Murphy, Frank Vincent, and Glenne Headly.  EA

HIGH: The ladies of 9 to 5 reunite

The three stars of 1990s classic comedy film 9 to 5  Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, and Lily Tomlin  reunited to present the Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie category, and these firecrackers were on fire! Back in 1980 in that movie, we refused to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot, Fonda noted. Tomlin followed up by saying that in 2017, they still refuse (to be controlled by President Trump, duh). Work it, ladies!  Kelly Woo

LOW: Seth MacFarlanes voices

Seth MacFarlane and Emmy Rossum (Photo: Phil McCarten/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

Memo to MacFarlane: Save the funny voices for Family Guy. The star of the new sci-fi series The Orville thought it would be hysterical to invent six different voices to represent each of the six nominees in the Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series or Movie category. Despite his promise that each of the voices would be unique, they all sounded the same to us: lame.  EA

HIGH: Chance the Rappers activist rap

(Credit: CBS)

Stephen Colberts opening musical number rocked, but the best part was rapped. Chance the Rapper showed up in a surprise cameo to lay down a couple of verses, which were definitely political in a thoughtful way. I like Brooklyn Nine-Nine / In fact, Im addicted / But wheres the cop show where one gets convicted? And he urged TV fans to turn out for political action just as they do for their favorite shows. I get it, them finales / They got you focused / But just record the show / And show up at the protest.  KW

LOW: Shailene Woodley, TV denier

(Credit: E! Entertainment)

Does Shailene Woodley realize that the Emmy Awards honor the best in television? The actress may have been nominated for her work on Big Little Lies, but she wasnt watching it at home  because she doesnt own a TV. Nah, Woodley is one of those people who cant wait to tell you shed rather curl up with a good book than switch on the idiot box. All my friends who watch TV, I always just ask them when they have time to, she noted drily on the Emmys red carpet. Im a reader. So I always read a book instead of turning on my TV. Were sure everyone at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences was thrilled to hear it.  KW

HIGH: Oliver schools Twitter

John Oliver (Photo: Phil McCarten/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

From #MakeDonaldDrumpfAgain to #JustAddZebras, John Oliver has never met a Twitter hashtag hes not able to get trending. And he worked his magic again while accepting his Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series Emmy. Playing off of a Dave Chappelle joke from earlier in the night, the Last Week Tonight host encouraged viewers at home to attach #DCPublicSchools to all their Emmy-related Tweets. Almost as soon as he uttered those words, #DCPublicSchools indeed started trending. Can we get #OliverForEmperor trending next?  EA

HIGH: Emmy gets a supermodel moment

(Credit: CBS)

Stephen Colbert got the inside gossip on the awards statuettes from Emmy herself (RuPaul). Honey, get out your china because I am ready to spill the tea, OK? she said before dishing on Oscar (cute but maybe a little crazy), Tony (has a jealous husband), and Peoples Choice (that b**** is messy!). But Emmy had a word for potential winners that night. Dont say youre surprised how heavy I am, because thats just plain rude.  KW

LOW: Why is that dude yelling?

Jermaine Fowler (Photo: Christy Radecic/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

In an unfortunate effort to make its sitcom comedy Superior Donuts happen, CBS hired star Jermaine Fowler as the Emmys announcer. The plan backfired, because Fowler was incredibly grating with his shouting and lame side jokes.  KW

HIGH: Stephen and Jimmy drown their sorrows

(Credit: CBS)

Host Stephen Colbert and fellow late night host Jimmy Kimmel toasted their mutual loss to John Oliver in the Best Variety Talk Series category  with a specialty drink dubbed The Last Week Tonight. As Kimmel described it, Its a dry British cocktail. Colbert declared it was very good. Its so high-quality, apparently they can only make one a week. Bottoms up, losers!  KW

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:
A-list couples lit up the 2017 Emmys!

One of our favorite aspects of every red carpet event in Hollywood is paying attention to which famous couple show up -- and show off their affection for one another!

SEE ALSO: Emmy Awards 2017: Red carpet arrivals

Between Felicity Huffman and William H. Macy hilariously grinding on the red carpet to James Corden rubbing his wife Julia Carey's pregnant belly, Hollywood's hottest pairs pulled out all the stops at the 2017 Emmy Awards on Sunday night.

More from AOL.com:

Emmy Awards 2017: Complete list of winners

2017 Emmys: Date, time, complete guide, nominees

2017 Emmy predictions: Who will win and who should win
By Rich McKay

ATLANTA (Reuters) - The family of a Georgia Institute of Technology student shot and killed by police in Atlanta over the weekend questioned on Monday why campus officers did not try to disarm the computer engineering major with nonlethal force.

Scout Schultz, 21, died after being shot on campus on Saturday night. The student ignored repeated commands to drop the knife and stop moving toward officers, police said.

Schultz made a 911 call to Georgia Tech Police alerting them to a suspicious person on campus, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) said. Schultz said there was a man with long blond hair "holding a knife and possibly armed with a gun on his hip."

Three suicide notes were found in Schultz's dormitory room, the GBI said in a statement.

Chris Stewart, a lawyer representing the family, said at a news conference earlier on Monday that Schultz was carrying a multi-purpose tool with pliers and "a tiny little blade that was not even open."

Investigators did find a multi-purpose tool on the scene, but no firearm, the GBI said.

Schultz's father said his child had a history of mental illness but had seemed to be doing well.

"Why did you have to shoot?" William Schultz said at the news conference. "That's the only question that matters right now. Why did you kill my son?

Stewart said the family will file lawsuits against the campus police and Georgia Tech.

Scout Schultz was president of Georgia Tech's Pride Alliance, an advocacy group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students. Schultz was nonbinary, according to the Pride Alliance website, a term used for gender identities that are not exclusively male or female, and preferred the pronoun "they" instead of he or she.

Video of the incident recorded by a witness and posted on the video-sharing website Vimeo showed that Schultz's arms were down by the side as officers said do not move and drop the knife.

Story continues

The moment of the shooting was partially obscured in the video. A single shot could be heard, followed by screams.

Stewart wanted to know why the officers did not use Tasers to subdue Schultz.

(Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Mary Milliken)
Four female American tourists have been attacked with acid at a train station in Marseille, France.

Two of the women suffered acid burns to their faces, the BBC reported, with all four women taken to a hospital following the attack, which was allegedly carried out by a woman at Marseilles main Saint Charles train station on Sunday morning.

Two American women aged 20 were hit in the face, while the other two were sprayed in the legs, and were mainly suffering from shock, one source with knowledge of the case told British newspaper The Daily Mail.

The two with facial injuries were taken to hospital, while the others were treated at the scene. They were also aged 20 or 21. The attacker wanted to show off photographs of her own injuries, the source added, explaining: She was arrested at the scene and faces charges. She displayed clear signs of suffering from deep psychological problems.

A spokesperson for the Marseille Prosecutors Office told the Associated Press in a phone call that one of the victims suffered an eye injury during the attack, with a 41-year-old woman arrested in connection with the incident.

Police have not described the attack on the tourists as terror-related, with the woman allegedly responsible for the attack believed to be mentally unstable.

The four women were believed to be bound for Paris when they were attacked, a city that remains on high alert following a number of terror attacks in France in the past few years.

Acid attacks have become increasingly common over the past few months, with the U.K. seeing such a rise in the use of acid for an assault that the countrys parliament is facing calls to take action, with a petition also started in the country to ban the sale of acid without a license.

Related Articles
By David Brunnstrom and John Irish NEW YORK (Reuters) - Britain, France and Australia urged Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Monday to push for an end to military violence against Rohingya Muslims, while her national security adviser said those who had fled could return but the process had to be discussed. The military response to insurgent attacks last month in the western region of Myanmar sent more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing to neighboring Bangladesh, escaping what the United Nations has branded as ethnic cleansing. The government says about 400 people have been killed in the fighting. "We will make sure that everybody who left their home can return to their home but this is a process we have to discuss," Myanmar national security adviser Thaung Tun told Reuters on Monday after a ministerial meeting on the crisis hosted by Britain on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. "We want to make sure that everybody who needs humanitarian assistance gets it, without discrimination. That is one of the things we agreed on," he said. Nobel laureate Suu Kyi has faced a barrage of international criticism for not stopping the violence. She is due to speak to the nation on Tuesday about the crisis, which the United States has described as a "defining moment" for Myanmar. "We expect from Mrs Aung Sang Suu Kyi tomorrow a strong statement in this direction," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves le Drian told reporters in New York. British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson hosted a ministerial meeting to discuss ways to resolve the Rohingya crisis, which included ministers from Canada, Denmark, Turkey, Australia, Indonesia, Sweden, Bangladesh, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and a representative of the European Union. "What we are trying to get everyone to agree is that, number one, the killings have got to stop, and the violence has got to stop. And we look not just to the military but also to Daw Suu to show a lead on that," Johnson told Reuters before the meeting. In a statement afterwards, Johnson said that while Myanmar had "made encouraging progress towards democracy in the last few years, the situation in Rakhine, the terrible human rights abuses and violence are a stain on the countrys reputation." "It is vital that Aung San Suu Kyi and the civilian government make clear these abuses must stop," he said. Johnson said he was "encouraged by our discussion and by the participation of the senior Burmese representatives, but we now need to see action to stop the violence and open up immediate humanitarian access." China, which, like the United States has worked to forge closer ties with Myanmar, a strategically important country in Southeast Asia, will not attend, a Chinese spokesman said, citing "a really packed calendar" for Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told Reuters ahead of the British meeting that a lasting political solution needed to be found for the Rohingya in Myanmar. 'ENORMOUS TRAGEDY' About a million Rohingya lived in Rakhine State until the recent violence. Most face draconian travel restrictions and are denied citizenship in a country where many Buddhists regard them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop told Reuters she wanted to hear Suu Kyi offer a solution "to what is a tragedy of enormous proportions." She said that during the ministerial meeting in New York there "was unanimity in the view that the violence must end and that there be a ceasefire. "And we emphasized the need for humanitarian support to get through and also that the Rohingya must be able to return home," Bishop said. The United States urged the Myanmar government to end military operations in Rakhine state, grant humanitarian access, and commit to aiding the safe return of civilians to their homes, Haley said in a statement after the meeting. "People are still at risk of being attacked or killed, humanitarian aid is not reaching the people who need it, and innocent civilians are still fleeing across the border to Bangladesh," Haley said. Washington has also called for an end to the violence and a restoration of humanitarian aid, and a deputy assistant secretary of state, Patrick Murphy, is due in Myanmar this week. "We urge the (Myanmar) government to act quickly to restore the rule of law, investigate alleged human rights abuses and violations, and to hold security forces and others responsible for abuses and violations fully accountable for their actions," a spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department said. U.S.-Myanmar ties improved after the military began withdrawing from government in 2011, and paved the way for a 2015 election won by Suu Kyi's party. But the military retains a strong hand in government and remains responsible for security. A Trump administration official told Reuters last week the violence made it harder to build warmer ties with Myanmar, and there would likely be some "easing" in the short term, but he did not expect a return to sanctions. For years, the United States and Western allies imposed sanctions on Myanmar in support of Suu Kyi's campaign for democracy. Myanmar's response was to forge closer ties with China. Human Rights Watch U.N. director Louis Charbonneau called for "strong U.N. action to compel Myanmar security services to end their ethnic cleansing campaign." "With so many influential leaders gathered in New York, the next step should be work on a U.N. General Assembly resolution condemning the abuses and a Security Council resolution to impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the commanders leading this brutal campaign" he said. However, Myanmar earlier this month said it was negotiating with China and Russia, both permanent veto wielding members of the Security Council, to block any bid to censure the country over the violence. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom and John Irish; Writing by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Grant McCool)
United Nations (United States) (AFP) - France warned Monday that salvaging the Iran nuclear deal was "essential," but left the door open to further talks to ward off any US threat to walk away from the landmark agreement.

Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told reporters ahead of the UN General Assembly that scrapping the 2015 agreement would launch an arms race with "neighboring countries that would feel encouraged to head into the same direction."

US President Donald Trump has threatened to scrap the nuclear agreement, describing it as the "worst deal ever negotiated."

"France will try to persuade President Trump of the importance of this choice, even if it can be completed by work after 2025," he said ahead of a meeting between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron later in the day.

Under the nuclear deal, certain limits on Iran's uranium enrichment are set to expire in 2025 and critics have said this is the weakest part of the deal.

"It's essential to maintain (the agreement) to prevent a spiral of proliferation that would encourage hardliners in Iran to pursue nuclear weapons," Le Drian said.

France and the United States are among the six powers that negotiated the landmark agreement with Iran. Britain, China, Germany and Russia are also part of the deal.

Under the nuclear deal, Iran surrendered much of its enriched uranium, dismantled a reactor and submitted nuclear sites to UN inspection, while Washington and Europe lifted some sanctions.

- Iran, North Korea top UN agenda -

Iran and North Korea are set to dominate the annual gathering of world leaders that formally opens on Tuesday with a series of addresses by Trump and Macron among other leaders.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is scheduled to speak on Wednesday.

Trump is due to decide before October 15 whether Iran has breached the 2015 nuclear agreement, and critics fear he may abandon an accord they think prevents Tehran from building a nuclear bomb.

Story continues

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will join his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif on Wednesday for a meeting of the so-called E3+3 on the nuclear deal, chaired by the European Union.

Turning to North Korea, Le Drian said that "very strong" pressure from sanctions would compel leader Kim Jong-Un to come to the negotiating table to put an end to his missile and nuclear programs.

"Military action is not required," said the foreign minister.

"To bring North Korea to the negotiating table, the only possible way is to apply very strong pressure," he added.

The UN Security Council last week imposed a new raft on sanctions on North Korea after it carried out its sixth and most powerful nuclear test.

The council will meet Thursday at a ministerial level to discuss ways of enforcing sanctions, which depends largely on cooperation from China, North Korea's largest trading partner.
Updated | The family of Kenneka Jenkins, the Chicago teenager found dead in a hotel walk-in freezer, is calling for a federal investigation into her death, as unanswered questions remain in a mysterious case that has lit up social media.

Police in Rosemont released surveillance footage from the Crowne Plaza Chicago OHare Hotel & Conference Center on Friday that appeared to show Jenkins, who was 19, stumbling down hallways and entering the hotel kitchen, where she goes out of shot.

09_18_Kenneka_Jenkins

Screenshot/Village of Rosemont

But Jenkinss family and activists are not satisfied with the investigation and say federal authorities should take up the probe.

Around 100 people gathered in Douglas Park in Chicago on Saturday to hold a memorial for Jenkins, who had gone to a party at the hotel with friends but was later separated from them. About 30 of them marched to the FBIs field office in Chicago later in the afternoon, chanting and demanding a federal investigation, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Im not a professional, but the FBI, from what I heard, they are professionals, Jenkinss mother, Tereasa Martin, said, according to the Tribune. Im just looking for helpthats all Ive been asking for since day one.

09_14_Kenneka_Jenkins

Facebook

Garrett Croon, a spokesman for the FBI Chicago field office, told Newsweek that the FBI would support our local and federal law enforcement partners in their investigations but that it would not open its own probe unless requested.

Read more: Video shows Kenneka Jenkins stumbling through a hotel kitchen before reaching the freezer

The family last saw Jenkins the night of September 8, when she left their Chicago home to attend a party at the hotel. Her friends called Martin around 4 a.m. on September 9 to say they had lost track of Jenkins.

Story continues

Martin went to the hotel the morning of September 9 to begin searching for her daughter; when she tried to report her daughter missing, police advised her to wait a few hours in case Jenkins turned up. Police notified the hotel that Jenkins was missing around 1:15 p.m. on September 9. Her body was not discovered until the early hours of September 10.

Rosemont police released several video clips on Friday that showed Jenkins at various stages in the early morning of September 9. Two clips showed her walking with three friends through a public part of the hotel at around 1:15 a.m.

But in clips from around 3:30 a.m., Jenkins emerges from an elevator alone and staggers down a hallway, hitting the walls and going in and out of a room. Another clip shows her entering an empty kitchen, where she walks out of the shot. The kitchen surveillance camera, which appears to be motion-activated and is in a part of the hotel that is currently under construction, is not triggered again until 8:34 p.m. the same day, when someone briefly enters the frame and looks around, possibly during the search for Jenkins.

The footage does not show how Jenkins got into the freezerand Martin seized on the missing moment in her comments on Friday. I want to see her actually walking into this freezer and closing herself within this freezer and freezing to death, said Martin, according to the Tribune.

The videotape does show the climax of the mystery. A man enters the frame at 12:23 a.m. on September 10 and goes around the corner where Jenkins was last seen; he then walks quickly out of frame and returns with a police officer, soon followed by more officers.

Kenneka Jenkins screenshot

Screenshot/Monifah Shelton/Facebook

Rosemont police said on Friday that it had interviewed a total of 25 people concerning Jenkinss death, including 16 who were in the room where the party was held. Police are still searching for 15 people to conduct further interviews and are following up on the over 500 tips and leads coming in, according to the police statement.

Police also ordered Facebook to preserve any communications that could shed light on the mystery and issued two search warrants for Facebook accounts. Cops also sent two social media videos to a private lab for further investigation. Social media videos shared by Jenkinss friends of the night of the party prompted widespread speculation online, with many accusing her friends of involvement in her death.

The police statement added that one male and one female had checked into the hotel room used for the party on September 7 using a fraudulent credit card and that an identity theft investigation was ongoing.

Police added that they would make roughly 36 hours worth of surveillance footage available upon request and that Martin was welcome to contact them with questions or to review the footage at any point.

Investigators are also awaiting the results of a toxicology test to determine what was in Jenkinss system at the time of her death. An inquest carried out by the Cook County medical examiner on September 10 did not determine a cause of death.

This story has been updated to include a response from the FBI.

Related Articles
Frankfurt am Main (AFP) - A week before German elections, the storied Free Democratic Party looks set to recover from a historic 2013 defeat and return to parliament -- where it could make Berlin a much more awkward partner for its European neighbours.

Were the FDP to reprise its historic role as junior coalition partner to Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right CDU/CSU, it would bring its staunch opposition to more financial transfers between European Union member countries.

That may ensure that mounting momentum behind reform of the bloc breaks on resistance from Berlin.

Stakes are high in an election race where the winner seems certain and all eyes are on four smaller parties, each polling around 10 percent.

With Merkel's party far ahead in the polls, but unlikely to gain an absolute majority, the chancellor will need to partner with one or more of the smaller parties -- unless she wants to continue a loveless 'grand coalition' with the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD).

She has ruled out working with the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD), or with the far-left Die Linke, which leaves the FDP and Greens battling for a potential junior role.

FDP secretary-general Nicola Beer says the goal is clear: "The decisive question for this election will be which party is the third largest."

Cautious Merkel has left her options open, signalling to both the pro-business FDP and the left-leaning Greens that there could be a place for them at the cabinet table after the September 24 vote.

If the FDP joined a CDU government, eurozone reform would be "dead in the water," economist Christian Odendahl of the Centre for European Reform said, labelling it "the most dangerous coalition for the euro."

- Order above all -

More than any other party, the FDP worships at the traditional German altar of economic "Ordnungspolitik" -- setting clear market-based rules and then applying them strictly no matter the cost.

Story continues

At the European level, that translates into a rejection of any plans for a common eurozone budget to cushion the impact of economic crises, or a European Monetary Fund to make emergency loans.

Such ideas have been ping-ponging between French and German leaders since the election of President Emmanuel Macron in May ignited a surge of confidence in the EU's future among the continent's elite.

"If the idea of giving the eurozone its own budget is for a cash pipeline out of Germany to other European states, we won't help make it happen," FDP leader Christian Lindner told a party gathering Sunday.

"A transfer union like that wouldn't strengthen Europe, but weaken it."

Free Democrats are sharply critical of the bailouts that have kept Greece in the euro despite its mountain of debt.

Their manifesto calls for a "state bankruptcy procedure for the eurozone" that could lead to nations leaving the single currency.

Leading lights of the FDP recognise that among other departures from the party's DNA, the first chapters of the Greek bailout epic were written while it was Merkel's junior partner between 2009 and 2013.

"It was no longer clear what we Free Democrats stood for" under the last coalition, said Beer.

"That's a mistake we won't make again."

- To Russia with love -

Germany's ties with its immediate neighbours might not be its only change of stance under a "black-yellow" coalition, the term for a CDU-FDP pairing in the nation's colour-coded politics.

Calls for rapprochement with Russia have been heard across the political spectrum during the campaign.

The run-up to the vote has seen massive criticism of former Social Democratic chancellor Gerhard Schroeder for accepting a job on the board of energy firm Rosneft.

But the Berlin-Moscow connection might thaw if -- as is common for a junior coalition partner -- Free Democrats leader Lindner were to become foreign minister.

Controversially, he has suggested that the EU "temporarily" accept Russia's annexation of the Crimea from Ukraine and dismantle economic sanctions.

Most mainstream politicians, including Merkel, insist that Moscow must fulfil the terms of the Minsk accords hammered out between France, Germany, Russia and Ukraine before sanctions are lifted.

For now, such clashes loom far off in the future for Lindner and his team.

They are betting on black-and-white posters of the photogenic leader, a domestic policy programme stuffed with familiar pro-business measures and tough talk on migration and refugees to boost them past other third-place contenders.

"How would you build a country if you were starting from scratch?" Lindner asks in one of the FDP's punchy video spots.

In Germany's European and foreign policy, the question may be closer to being answered than allies would like come next week.
Beijing (AFP) - General Motors will recall more than 2.5 million vehicles in China over concerns about airbags made by troubled Japanese giant Takata, Chinese authorities said, dealing a blow to the US automaker in the world's largest car market.

GM and its joint venture partner Shanghai GM will start withdrawing vehicles fitted with the potentially faulty airbags beginning next month and will include Chevrolet and Buick cars, China's top consumer watchdog said.

They will replace the faulty airbags for free.

Takata has recalled about 100 million airbags produced for some of the world's largest automakers, including about 70 million in the US, because of the risk that they could improperly inflate and rupture, potentially firing deadly shrapnel at the occupants.

The defect has been linked to 16 deaths and scores of injuries globally, and the issue has led to the biggest car recall in history.

In China, the recalls involve 37 manufacturers and more than 20 million vehicles, of which 24 carmakers had recalled 10.59 million units by the end of June, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said Friday.

Last week, the watchdog announced that German carmaker Volkswagen and its joint ventures will recall 4.86 million vehicles in China over the airbag issue.

Of the vehicles being recalled, the vast majority were made in Chinese factories.

China is a crucial market for leading international carmakers, where they must operate as joint ventures with local partners.

GM has a long-standing presence in the country, where last year it sold 3.87 million vehicles making it the second-largest foreign manufacturer in the country, behind Volkswagen.

- Suing a dead company -

Japanese auto parts giant Takata in February pleaded guilty to fraud for hiding the defect, and paid a $1 billion fine.

The company filed for bankruptcy in June.

Earlier this month, Takata's largest client, Honda, reached a $605 million settlement in a lawsuit over defective airbags in millions of cars on American roads.

Story continues

Honda joined Nissan, Toyota, BMW, Mazda and Subaru in agreeing a deal to settle a lawsuit, replace the defective airbags from now-bankrupt Takata, and to compensate car owners.

The latest agreement was filed in the US District Court in Miami.

The bankruptcy of Takata may frustrate the legal challenges by victims harmed by the company's exploding airbags, which were part of the largest auto safety recall ever.

For those injured and the families of those killed, the major question is what happens to their legal cases while a bankruptcy court sorts through competing claims from Takata creditors.

The bankruptcy could mean the major automakers may find the airbag producer will not reimburse them for their costs, despite an $875 million fund created by Takata in January.
"Every so often I get like the odd sort of flashback where it jolts me a little bit, but its only ever a snippet, that fraction of a second before I actually hit the car. I dont really remember much about the actual accident".

"Thats probably just as well, right?"

"Yes, I dont think its the kind of thing you really want to remember".

Im sat in the brightly lit conference room of GoCardless, the high-growth London fintech startup backed by the likes of Accel, Balderton, Notion, Passion and Silicon Valleys Y Combinator. The room is a little too warm for my liking, which is making me slightly anxious. Im also acutely aware that Im the disabled journalist who has agreed to write a feature on the disabled entrepreneur, even if my subject, the companys 31 year old co-founder and CEO Hiroki Takeuchi, is a relative newbie.

I was born with a muscle condition that means Ive used a powered wheelchair for most of my life: its all I have really ever known. In contrast, it has only been a year since Takeuchi was involved in a serious road accident that has left him paralysed below his chest, and reliant on a manual wheelchair to get around. Bar some kind of moonshot-styled medical miracle, hell never be able to walk again.

This interview -- the GoCardless CEOs first with the technology or business press since the accident -- came at his request and Im flattered to learn that it warranted consultation with the companys board. Before I hit record on my iPhone, I politely kick the startups perfectly affable PR flack out of the room, and explain to Takeuchi that the only real preparation Ive done for this assignment is to have a brief call with Matt Robinson, who, along with Monzo Banks Tom Blomfield, co-founded GoCardless with Takeuchi in 2011 but has since left to found property tech startup Nested.

As a "favour" to him, Robinson asked that I keep in mind that his close friend can sometimes be too open. I like Matt but hes kind of annoying, I say jokingly, after recounting the conversation. He can be annoying, cant he? Takeuchi replies with a wide and knowing smile.

Story continues

After agreeing that there would be no redlines, I begin by asking Takeuchi why he wanted to do an interview with TechCrunch, and why now? Thats a good question, he says. I think because Im kind of getting to that point now where there is a bit more normality in life. Im feeling more my old self; theres lots of exciting stuff going on here at GoCardless.

I kind of feel like we havent really talked about it as a company or me as an individual much, and selfishly, I kind of want to avoid the question of what happened to you, why are you in a wheelchair?. Id rather just get the story out there on the record so that we can put it to rest and focus on the more important stuff, which is building a business.

***

The story begins on a sunny early Thursday morning in Central London on 22nd of September 2016. Takeuchi, who always has and continues to be someone who likes to push himself physically, was doing laps around Regents Park in what was otherwise a routine before-work bike ride with his brother, the sort of training session the two of them had undertaken many times previously. After a momentary loss of concentration, he says he looked up and saw that there was a car right in front of him. Seconds later he passed out.

I wasnt doing anything stupid, I wasnt cutting red lights or any of that stuff, says the GoCardless CEO, describing the subsequent collision simply as an accident with neither party to blame. I was just unlucky, I guess.

First to arrive on the scene was his brother -- hes a bit slower than me, so he was a minute or so behind -- and spotting that Takeuchi had sustained a huge gash on his neck and was bleeding heavily, he immediately called for an ambulance. By around 8.30am, the pair arrived at St Mary's hospital in nearby Paddington and were later joined by Takeuchis wife Rachel Swidenbank, who was able to have a ten minute conversation with her husband before he was due to go into surgery. Ive messed everything up, she recalls him telling her. Takeuchi tells me he still feels a sense of guilt.

Delivered without sugar-coating and designed to manage expectations, the prognosis from doctors wasnt good. The aim of surgery was to straighten Takeuchis spine and fix his posture, not to enable him to walk again. If during the procedure the doctors saw additional work that could be done, they would do it, but he shouldnt allow himself to think that he would wake up and be walking.

The subsequent operation would last eight long grueling hours. And yet, according to Swidenbank, when the GoCardless CEO woke up in the early hours the following morning, with traces of morphine almost certainly still running through his veins, his attention immediately turned to business.

That morning I got to his bedside and was like, Ive brought you some stuff to try and eat, and the first thing he said was: I need to speak to Matt. I was like, alright, [but] how about your wife? she tells me, laughing.

I remember being a little blown away by him. Even with everything that had happened and what was going to face us for the next however many months, the first thing he wanted to get sorted was to make sure the company was going to be Ok.

It definitely played on my mind, says Takeuchi. I kind of realised that this was pretty serious and wasnt something where I was just going to turn up back at work tomorrow. I was going to be out for more than a few days.

Photo credit: Rachel Swidenbank

Robinson describes the ad-hoc business meeting that followed as borderline inappropriate. There was me and him talking, family and friends there, obviously sobbing and upset, and Hiroki and I are having a business meeting about what were gonna do.

Continues Robinson: At that point it was clear that everything had changed but nothing had changed. We could have switched us out from the ward with a guy who has been in a major life threatening accident 24 hours ago and we could have been back in the flat where we started the company in the first place: Hiroki would be back, it was just a question of when.

The thing that was amazing in the moment is you are so scared of losing the person or something about him that might not be the same, adds Swidenbank, it was like, that drive and that ambition, this isnt going to stop me, was there from that first morning.

Takeuchi says in retrospect that having a business meeting so soon after the accident was really weird, and aside from a key hire the company was in the middle of making, the pair discussed mostly trivial stuff. There were all these details that in hindsight didnt really matter, he says.

During those first 48 hours, Robinson had made sure the GoCardless board was kept up to date. At the suggestion of Balderton Capitals Tim Bunting, a conference call was convened on Saturday morning where he and Robinson would be joined by Passion Capital partner Robert Dighero, Notion Capital partner Stephen Chandler, and Fred Destin for Accel. Midway through the call, however, and to the astonishment of everybody present (with, I suspect, the exception of Robinson), a welcome but unexpected guest showed up.

Hiroki dialled in, which was incredible, recalls Dighero. He was no more than 24 hours out of surgery and his voice was quavering but he was very clear: Im coming back, Im going to be running this company, and I wanted to let you all know which was unbelievably impressive, takes your breath away.

Chandler describes the reaction as a mixture of incredulous wonder at the resilience of the human spirit and Takeuchi specifically, but also slight concern that he gave himself enough time to recover and that this wasnt rebound type behaviour.

At the end of the day, we are VCs and theres a lot of money tied up in the business but there was never a question or a discussion about anyone taking Hirokis place other than if it came about at his instigation, he says.

I think he was probably semi-delirious from drugs but it was one of those kind of moments that you always remember, says Bunting. We were able to say to him immediately on the call, the company is waiting for you, you should completely relax, everyone knows you are going to make a recovery, and we look forward to having you back.

[It was] an amazing thing to hear, recalls Takeuchi. It gave me the ability to focus on what I needed to focus on but it also gave me something to work for.

Over the next couple of weeks, a familiar pattern would emerge. In between the GoCardless CEO resting post-surgery, multiple friends and family descended on the hospital, sometimes to the annoyance of medical staff who had kindly snuck a spare mattress into Takeuchis room so that Swidenbank could remain by her husbands side.

One of the most frequent visitors was Robinson, who, having agreed to return to GoCardless to help out in the interim while still running his own startup, soon got a reputation for consuming whatever little energy his friend and co-founder had left each day. No one wanted to visit Hiroki after me, he says.

For those first few weeks, when I went in to see him, we did hang out as mates -- and it was really fun actually as we hadnt spent much time together because I was off doing Nested -- but we would spend most of our time talking about the company and what we would do.

And yeah that was probably trivial with all the other stuff going on and we could have just forgotten about it, but I actually think it was probably really valuable to him because he was stuck in a fucking bed all day worrying about pretty existential stuff, and having something that may be a little bit more trivial but actually does matter was really helpful from the get-go.

Matt had his back, is how Swidenbank puts it when describing how her husband needed to stay informed with what was going on at GoCardless so that he could maintain his own leadership during that time. The trust that Hiroki had with Matt is what enabled him to continue to work towards GoCardless despite his capacity being so limited. That closeness and that trust was something that I look back on as really amazing.

***

Confident that GoCardless was safe in Robinson and the executive teams custody and would continue to execute without him, Takeuchi says he went through a period where the magnitude of the accident began to sink in. I was still being kept up to date but really my mind was elsewhere, he tells me. I was focused on rehab and all the fun stuff of being in hospital and trying to get out of hospital. I dont know if youve spent much time in hospital, it sucks.

(As Takeuchi and I compare notes, I explain that I was in and out of hospital a lot as a kid, having had multiple operations. Ive done everything in my power since to avoid going back, I say. Yeah, I know what you mean, he replies, I hate it.)

Even though it is hard to imagine after seeing him push himself around the GoCardless offices with what seemed like relative ease, Takeuchi says that in those first few weeks he was unable to lift his head off the pillow and could barely move.

So you really were fucked?

I was totally fucked.

To compound matters, he contracted an MRSA infection in early October, which required him to undergo further surgery before he was able to focus solely on rehab. At the insistence of Bunting and Robinson -- and despite some initial resistance from Takeuchi whose instinct was to be treated within the National Health Service just like anybody else -- on October 22nd the GoCardless CEO was moved to the spinal rehabilitation unit of The Wellington, a private hospital in North London.

This is one of the things where the board were really supportive. They were like, you need to go and get the best care you can, he says.

In this instance, and at Takeuchis request, the best care meant throwing as much rehab at him as he could handle. He says he treated it like a fulltime job, 8am to 6pm, every day. It was pretty exhausting, to be honest, but if they gave me a break, Id be like moaning about it.

Photo credit: Rachel Swidenbank

You kind of have to relearn how to use your body, he explains. Part of it is recovering from all of the shock and everything but also you have to start building up different muscles so that you can wheel around in a wheelchair or you can balance when I have no control over my core. Those top two abs have got to do a lot more work if Im not going to fall over. Its a combination of conditioning what youve still got, getting over the shock and relearning how to do things.

Determined to be home before Christmas, Swidenbank remembers Takeuchi asking medical staff what the fastest time was for someone with his level of injury to have ever completed the program. Six to twelve months was typical, he was told, although one person had done it in three. Ok, Im going to do it in six weeks, Takeuchi replied, to the bemusement of doctors. He was discharged on the 16th of December, just seven weeks later.

You hear all these stories when youre in hospital, when youre exposed to this world of spinal cord injuries, people get stuck in hospital for 12-18 months, he says. One person was in hospital for two years, and that just sounded like my worst nightmare. Imagine being in hospital for two years, it would be terrible.

Private healthcare isnt cheap and I wonder out loud how Takeuchis stay at The Wellington Hospital was paid for. Did GoCardless pick up the bill or was he insured? It was a bit of everything, he says. Lets put it this way, the board were very supportive about helping to make sure I got the best care possible. To be honest, I dont know where the money came from. Matt was like, Ive sorted it.

Just lots of people doing the right thing, is all Robinson would say on record.

***

On 25th of November 2016, two months after the accident, Takeuchi was sat on his bed practicing a speech. For only the second week running, he had been allowed home from hospital for the weekend and things were quite tense. As CEO, he had spoken in public many times before -- sometimes he would write a formal address and other times he would just wing it -- but this felt different: it was the GoCardless Christmas party and his first opportunity to fully address the company since the accident.

I didnt tell anyone I was going to go, because we werent really sure if I was going to be able to go or not, says Takeuchi. And I remember, I felt super nervous about that. It would be the first time that Id see the company as a whole, in a wheelchair and in this new life.

We were both a little bit on edge,  says Swidenbank. We hadnt really been to any big event, wed barely left the hospital. It was a really big deal.

At that point he was still up and down every day, says Robinson. "His energy levels were really unpredictable and one day it would be absolutely fine but the next day it would be a terrible idea. I wanted to have it so he could do it but then have it that no one was like oh he was supposed to come but he couldnt make it. That would have been a negative and we wanted to make it positive.

I almost didnt go, confesses Takeuchi. Rachel was like, no, youre going to this, you have to go. So, that helped a lot.

For any wheelchair user, new or otherwise, logistics are a necessary focus in situations like this, but can also be an extra cause of anxiety. The venue for the GoCardless Christmas party had to be accessible, and one of Londons iconic (and wheelchair-friendly) black taxis would need to be summoned well ahead of time. Despite initially being dropped off on the wrong side of the street and faced with an unexpected slope that, early in his recovery, would test Takeuchi physically, all bases had been covered.

Bar one.

Normally he would stand up to do a speech, so suddenly he was like, how do I get everyones attention?! recalls Swidenbank.

He was super anxious about it, but rightly so, says Robinson. He didnt want to be sat there with a mic, in his chair, and people to be wondering where the noise was coming from.

The solution was to have Robinson, who by now had started to think of himself as the harbinger of doom at GoCardless, make a short introduction before handing the microphone over to his co-founder. "'For once I've got something good to announce: Hiroki'. That's literally all I said. Everyone in the room stood up and kind of exploded".

Takeuchi tells me he doesnt remember the exact content of the speech, except that he wanted to thank everybody who worked at the company. Id seen how everything was going and it was like, thank you for continuing to do such great work. A lot of people had to really pull things out of the bag and step up, so I just wanted to appreciate that really.

Did you make any jokes? I ask. Yeah, of course I did he replies, as if I just asked a really stupid question. I mean, it took about a week before my friends and family were all taking the piss out of me for being in a wheelchair.

I think Hirokis joke might have been: Im not gonna stand up, which doesnt sound that funny but it was probably what was required, says Robinson.

Swidenbank says it was a very special moment because of the strength her husband displayed even though she knew deep down he was still coming to terms with everything that was going on. He was able to hold himself in such a position and instill confidence in everyone else that he was going to be Ok and that the company was going to be Ok. And not just Ok but be amazing, she says.

Takeuchi and Swidenbank stayed at the party for a few hours, ending the night on the dance floor together as they had done many times before.

***

Im fucking terrible with [other peoples] anxiety, Im just not a very anxious person, Robinson tells me. It wasnt even particularly warm, but I turn up and Im like, were walking.

It was December 5th, a Tuesday evening, and a table had been booked at Lemonia, a greek restaurant in North London and a 21 minute walk from The Wellington Hospital, according to Google Maps. The occasion was a board dinner where all of the GoCardless investors would be present. Takeuchi, who, understandably, was feeling a little anxious, wanted to take a taxi, but his friend had other ideas.

I just felt he needed a shove, says Robinson. He thought I was joking and said, youre not joking are you? Fucking hell, the things you make me do. So we start walking over to this restaurant. What I forgot is that the bit of the park you have to go through, theres a big fucking hill. I remember Hiroki being like, mate, this is fucking bullshit". At that stage of his rehab, he was unsure if he could manage.

I was like, fuck that, were not going to be beaten, so I gave him a push. He didnt want to be pushed but we would never had made it up there. Even with me pushing him, it was bloody hard work, but together we made it to the top and got to the restaurant.

They turned up a bit late, Matt was looking a little bit out of breath, confirms Dighero. I remember that dinner: Hiroki pulled up his wheelchair at the table and after five minutes you totally forgot that hed just had a terrible accident a few months earlier. You really wouldnt have been able to tell.

Adds Robinson: Weve never given a fuck in the past, right, weve always done whatever we wanted: if wanna walk, we walk, if we wanna run, we run, you know. And it felt like the chair was trying to impose that we had to take a taxi. Fuck that, its a nice evening, were gonna walk and we can".

Takeuchi messaged his friend after the dinner to say thanks for making him do it: It was hard, but it just showed I can do stuff, he reportedly wrote.

***

It has been nine months since Takeuchi returned to GoCardless and eight since the board meeting where Robinson formally handed back management of the company. He tells me staff have been really supportive and that no one has made him feel uncomfortable. The things that Ive found awkward or difficult are more personal, more a projection of how I feel about myself, he says.

For example, one thing I find difficult, I dont know if youve noticed but Im leaning on everything Ive got. Its actually quite difficult for me to sit upright. So when Im talking in front of everyone, and Ive got nothing to lean on, and Im trying to hold a microphone, Im sort of like wobbling around. Im quite self-conscious about that kind of stuff.

Of course, until Takeuchi pointed it out, I hadnt noticed at all. All of a sudden I become aware that Im sitting with my elbow resting on my lap, using one arm to grip the other, which is in turn supporting my chin. To body language experts it probably looks like a defensive posture when mostly it just enables me to sit comfortably for longer.

My strength is quite variable, some days Im really strong and fine and other days, for no particular reason, everything is harder and you almost miss a transfer," says Takeuchi. "That kind of stuff I dont like people seeing".

One of the things that has impressed him the most is how well the team did in his absence. Despite being out of the picture for nearly four months, the business continued to grow, although he declines to disclose revenue or if the company is profitable. We dont share those kind of details, he says, as we temporarily occupy more formulaic ground.

Was it a tiny bit annoying how well GoCardless coped without him? No, it feels great, he says. Its not like you build a business because you want to be the center of it. You want to create something that is meaningful and lasting. Or at least thats how I feel about it. It felt really amazing that the business did do well and continued to grow and thrive, even when I wasnt there.

At this point in the interview I fall back on journalistic cliches and ask the GoCardless CEO what kind of leader he is and if the accident has changed him in any way. The first part of the question appears to catch him slightly off guard, as if it isnt something hes ever given much thought to. After a long pause he says he can be quite challenging and doesnt just take things at face value if he thinks something can be done better, but his default style is to seek different opinions around the table before ultimately making a decision.

All three investors I spoke to give roughly the same answer but with far less deliberation. Hes more driven by getting everyone around him, listening to everyones opinions and then taking a decision, says Dighero. Consensual, based on the facts rather than emotion, says Bunting. An extremely smart person, [with a] very big brain, so you can kind of see it ticking over behind his eyes. Hes always willing to listen to other peoples opinions, but then at the end of the day he doesnt have to agree with them, and he says no, I want to take it in this direction, says Chandler.

Takeuchi thinks the accident and the process of going through it all has changed him in some ways but not at all in other ways, although he fails to articulate precisely how, except perhaps to say that he is more inclined to live in the moment. I still feel like Im the same person as I used to be. Not all of the time, but most of the time. And I think that has been important for me personally to get through this, he says.

From a professional perspective -- and perhaps surprisingly -- Takeuchi is convinced that the accident could turn out to be a net positive in the sense that it has made him reconsider what the company has been doing and to look at everything with a fresh pair of eyes. It also forced me to rethink my relationship with the company, and its quite hard to do that when youre not forced to do it because there are always so many things to do". Specifically, he says he now has a better understanding of what parts of the business he can add most value.

One area of renewed focus is international expansion. The company already operates in the U.K., France, Germany and Spain, but Takeuchi is keen to increase the pace at which GoCardless grows abroad. Thats the thing Ive come back and Im just like, we cant wait any more, we just need to do this, he says.

That, I suggest, will likely require additional capital, and ask the GoCardless CEO if the company is currently fundraising? Were not talking about fundraising today, Steve. You know Ill call you if we are, comes Takeuchis stock and all-too-familiar reply, what we in the media call a non-denial denial.

I try from a different angle: Are you out doing the rounds? I mean, youre doing this article, so when you do bowl up to pitch... Yeah, at least theyll know to expect me in a wheelchair, he fires back with a wry smile.
The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations has pledged it will be a new day for the organization after Donald Trump makes his first address to the U.N. on Tuesday.

The administration has suggested Trumps speech on Tuesday will focus on the idea of reform in the U.N., with Nikki Haley emphasizing in an interview on Sunday that the U.S. must be more respected within the organization.

"It is a new day at the U.N.," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley said in the interview with CNNs State of the Union.

Nikki Haley

Mike Segar/Reuters

"I think that the pleas he made in terms of trying to see change at the United Nations have been heard, and I think what we'll do is see him respond to that, she added.

According to Trumps national security adviser, H.M. McMaster, the president is intending to speak of reform as it relates to organizational bureaucracy.

Speaking to ABCs This Week, McMaster said: The president is going to say the United Nations cant be effective unless it reforms its bureaucracy and unless it achieves a higher degree of accountability for member states.

Trump has previously expressed concerns over the U.S. place in the U.N., stating he doesnt believe the country is necessarily being treated fairly compared to other member nations.

Speaking back in April 2017, the president said: The United States, just one of 193 countries in the U.N., pays for 22 percent of the budget and almost 30 percent of the United Nations peacekeeping, which is unfair, Reuters reported.

But Haley expressed a hope that the U.N. was moving towards reform, underlining suggestions from senior officials that the president would be addressing such issues on Tuesday.

"What you are now seeing is the Israel bashing has become more balanced. You've got a United Nations that is action oriented, we've passed two resolutions on North Korea just in the last month. And you also have a United Nations that is moving toward reform," Haley told State of the Union.

Related Articles
A carnival employee was injured while trying to rescue children from a malfunctioning Ferris wheel in North Carolina.

Albert Irwin could be seen trying to help two boys, ages 5 and 7, as they clung to each other inside a tilted carriage at a carnival in Greensboro around 9:45 p.m. Friday.

One of them kept saying, I dont want to die, I dont want to die, Irwin said.

Read: Dad Who Rescued 14-Year-Old Who Fell From Six Flags Ride: 'We All Saved Her'

He reassured the children that they were going to be OK, telling them, Youre not going to die; Im here to help you.

But as Irwin tried to adjust the gondola car back into place, he lost his footing.

He fell, slamming against several other cars as he plummeted to the ground.

Read: 14-Year-Old Boy Hailed A Hero For Saving 5-Year-Old Boy Who Fell Off A Cliff

Incredibly, Irwin suffered only a broken finger in the fall.

The young boys were unharmed and were reunited with their mothers shortly after the harrowing ordeal.

Watch: Boy Saves Dad After Runaway Truck Nearly Crushes His Head

Related Articles:
Kate McKinnons portrayal of Hillary Clinton on Saturday Night Live won her an Emmy Award Sunday night and a shoutout in the former Democratic nominees new book about the 2016 presidential election.

As McKinnon took to the stage to accept her award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, ABC News Chris Donovan tweeted a page from Clintons recently released memoir, What Happened, that mentioned McKinnons award-winning portrayal.

She sat at a grand piano and played Hallelujah, the hauntingly beautiful song by Leonard Cohen, who had died a few days before, Clinton wrote of McKinnons cold open on Saturday Night Lives first show after the Nov. 8 election.

As she sang, it seemed like she was fighting back tears, Clinton added. Listening, so was I.

Kate McKinnon wins Emmy. Here's how Hillary Clinton (in her new book) describes watching McKinnon play her the Saturday after election pic.twitter.com/fcgbpSuSKo  Chris Donovan (@chrisdonovan) September 18, 2017

Clinton included her reaction to McKinnons portrayal in the chapter titled Grit and Gratitude.

In her acceptance speech, McKinnon took a moment to thank Clinton for those same qualities.

On a very personal note, I want to say thank you to Hillary Clinton for your grace and grit, McKinnon said.

To watch the performance that made Clinton, McKinnon and SNL viewers fight back tears, watch the video below.

Story continues

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

Actors Sarah Paulson (L) and Allison Janney attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Gina Rodriguez and Shemar Moore speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Shailene Woodley, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, and Zoe Kravitz speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Host Stephen Colbert (2nd from R) performs onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for the Crown, John Lithgow, speaks onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer speaks onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Anna Chlumsky (L) and Ellie Kemper walk the red carpet during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Kate McKinnon accepts the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series award for "Saturday Night Live" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Issa Rae and Riz Ahmed speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Laura Dern accepts the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie award for "Big Little Lies" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Anna Faris and Allison Janney speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Comedian Dave Chappelle and actor Melissa McCarthy speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor/director Donald Glover accepts Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series for 'Atlanta' (episode 'B.A.N.') onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Rachel Bloom performs onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Director Jean-Marc Vallee accepts Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Dramatic Special for 'Big Little Lies' onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, and Jane Fonda speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Host Stephen Colbert is dragged offstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Alexis Bledel and Gerald McRaney speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Alexander Skarsgard accepts Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for "Big Little Lies" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

TV personalities Seth Meyers and James Corden speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Ann Dowd accepts the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for "The Handmaid's Tale" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Host John Oliver accepts the Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series for "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Alec Baldwin accepts the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for "Saturday Night Live" onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Sonequa Martin-Green and Jeremy Piven speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors LL Cool J and Gabrielle Union speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Writers Aziz Ansari and Lena Waithe accept the Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series award for "Master of None" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Rashida Jones and Mark Feuerstein speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Jim parsons and Iain Armitage speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Lea Michelle and Kumail Nanjiani speak onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Priyanka Chopra and Anthony Anderson walk onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Audrey Morrissey and crew members accept the award for Outstanding Reality Competition Program for "The Voice" onstage during the 69th Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theatre on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepts Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for "Veep" from actor Debra Messing onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actor Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepts Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for "Veep" onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Actors Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon with cast and crew of "Big Little Lies" accept the Outstanding Limited Series award onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

Writer-producer Norman Lear and actor-comedian Carol Burnett speak onstage during the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on Sept. 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Hillary Clinton opened the door to possibly questioning whether Donald Trump was legitimately elected president, depending on the outcome of investigations into Russias role in the 2016 campaign.

The former Democratic presidential nominee made her comments in an interview with Fresh Air host Terry Gross on Monday:

I want to get back to the question: Would you completely rule out questioning the legitimacy of this election if we learn that the Russian interference in the election is even deeper than we know now? No. I would not. I would say  Youre not going to rule it out. No, I wouldnt rule it out.

Clinton acknowledged, however, that there really arent solid means to challenge the results.

Basically I dont believe there are, she added. There are scholars, academics, who have arguments that it would be, but I dont think theyre on strong ground. But people are making those arguments. I just dont think we have a mechanism.

Clintons comments are significant since immediately after the election she urged her supporters to accept the results.

I still believe in America, and I always will. And if you do, then we must accept this result and then look to the future, she said in her concession speech. Donald Trump is going to be our president. We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead. Our constitutional democracy enshrines the peaceful transfer of power, and we dont just respect that, we cherish it.

In January, Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) said he did not view Trump as a legitimate president.

I dont see this president-elect as a legitimate president, Lewis said. I think the Russians participated in helping this man get elected, and they have destroyed the candidacy of Hillary Clinton.

Trump, incensed at the slight, took to Twitter and insulted the civil rights icon.

Congressman John Lewis should spend more time on fixing and helping his district, which is in horrible shape and falling apart (not to......  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2017

mention crime infested) rather than falsely complaining about the election results. All talk, talk, talk - no action or results. Sad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2017

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
The Hobby Lobby cotton display in question. (Photo: Facebook/Hobby Lobby)

Crafts store Hobby Lobby is taking serious heat for a store display that one woman is calling racist.

On Thursday, Facebook user Daniell Rider posted a photo to Hobby Lobbys Facebook page, of a vase of cotton flowers displayed in a Texas store. She captioned it, This decor is WRONG on SO many levels. There is nothing decorative about raw cotton A commodity which was gained at the expense of African-American slaves. A little sensitivity goes a long way. PLEASE REMOVE THIS decor.

The $29.99 stems (marked down to $15 on the company website) was shared more than 15K times and earned 169K comments, an overwhelming majority of which ridiculed Rider for being too sensitive and a few that defended her stance.

LOL likely written by someone wearing a cotton T-shirt and cotton jeans and cotton underwear, wrote one Facebook user. Must not of thought that one through, wrote someone else.

Boycott Hobby Lobby, wrote another.

This is crazy. Cotton is a fact of life, added one. People still pick it. That happened 150 years ago. Slaves also picked tobacco, harvested rice and many other things. We cant just get rid of them. Well Lowes sells chains and rope. You think they should get rid of that too?

Hobby Lobby did not return Yahoo Lifestyles request for comment; however, cotton has been igniting backlash recently.

On Friday, Randy Lowry, the president of Lipscomb University in Nashville, sent an apology letter to African-American students who recently visited his home to discuss university life, some of whom objected to cotton-stalk centerpieces at the presidents home (although its unknown whether they were the same that were sold at Hobby Lobby).

The content of the centerpieces was offensive, and I could have handled the situation with more sensitivity, Lowry wrote. I sincerely apologize for the discomfort, anger or disappointment we caused and solicit your forgiveness.

President Randy Lowry just sent the following email to the Lipscomb community. pic.twitter.com/pMFkLpCaEw  Lipscomb University (@lipscomb) September 15, 2017

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Story continues

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




A photo of a Florida resident who lost power during Hurricane Irma has gained traction online for its unique combination of sexy and inspiring. In it, Kynse Leigh, a recent organ-transplant recipient, stands in front of her house and some downed tree branches while making a plea through a hot-pink-lettered sign: Hot single female seeks sexy lineman to electrify her life. Its received hundreds of shares on Facebook.

Kynse Leigh, who returned home from the hospital to find that she had no electricity, used this tactic to get some attention. (Photo: Facebook/Kynse Leigh)

That was my idea. I like to be humorous, Leigh, 37, tells Yahoo Lifestyle about the photo. Anything to bring humor to a s***ty situation, Im all for.

Its the right attitude, considering the particular spot that Leigh, of Fort Myers, found herself in. Just two weeks ago, the divorced mom of one underwent a double organ transplant  of her pancreas and a kidney  due to kidney failure as a result of living with type 1 diabetes since childhood.

A photo that Leigh posted from the hospital. (Photo: Facebook/Kynses Kidney/Pancreas Transplant Journey)

The transplant went well, she says, but in the hospitals rush to discharge patients before Irma hit, Leigh was let out a bit too early and found that she had to return to the hospital after spending a difficult night in a nearby hotel. So I rode out the storm at Tampa General Hospital, she says, even as the place was running on generator power and its entire staff was stranded onsite for five days due to the closure of a bridge connecting the hospitals island to the mainland.

Finally, she was ready to leave the hospital for real but found that the storm-damaged community was ill-prepared to receive her. I came home to no power, says the recovering patient, and Ive been moving around to friends couches. Thus, the posting of her amusing, attention-grabbing sign. I said, I want my bed, Im single, its hot outside, I need electricity.

Luckily, her plan was a success: The attention on Facebook landed Leigh, owner of Re/Max Dream real estate in Fort Myers, on a local radio show Monday morning. A group of linemen heard me, she says, and by afternoon, her power lines had been repaired.

Story continues

It was just the latest joyous news for Leigh, whos been sharing the personal journey of her transplant surgery in a series of YouTube and Facebook live posts, including the moment when she learned that her organ donor had been found, and she turned the camera on herself and her son, 8.

It was very, very emotional, and it was awesome that he was there with me, she says, noting that shed spent 100 days on the donor list until being found on Facebook by the mom of a 15-year-old boy who had accidentally shot himself. Its absolutely heartbreaking, says Leigh. But his mom thanked me for adding a little bit of joy to the situation.  She can see the joy in peoples lives that he did save. In addition to Leigh, there were other recipients who received his lungs, his other kidney, and his heart, which went to a 16-year-old girl.

Im trying to get as many people as possible to be organ donors, because they dont know how important it really is. Raising awareness is my main goal in life, Leigh says, explaining why shes been so public about her experience. Twenty-two people die each day waiting for organ transplants, and there are over 140,000 people currently waiting in the U.S. for transplants.

Amazingly, Leighs personal struggles of the past two weeks have not stymied her own generous spirit: While still in the hospital, she started organizing a community-support effort along with other local real estate companies and a mortgage broker. Our town was pretty much devastated in the storm, she says. Because she knew that not everyone would have the means to eat out or check themselves into hotels, the effort sent warm meals to more than 600 people in need. And so, despite having just received her new organs, she says, I cooked two huge pots of chili, while restaurants made donations and many people volunteered.

Shes obviously a wonderfully amazing person and an inspiration, Leighs friend and fellow Re/Max broker Sue Pinky Benson, who was one of many who shared the sexy lineman photo, tells Yahoo Lifestyle. Even though she has the biggest excuse ever to stay in bed, she doesnt do it, and she reminds us that we have to say, Were bigger than Irma, and that we have to rally.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.
Jon Huntsman speaking at the 2015 Concordia Summit in New York City. (Photo: Leigh Vogel/Getty Images)

As recently as January, Jon Huntsman, President Trumps nominee for ambassador to Russia, was arguing in favor of the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which Russian President Vladimir Putin strongly opposed. But that shouldnt stand in the way of their relationship since Donald Trump had the same position as Putin.

Ratifying TPP  fixed as needed  is also critical to a successful Asia strategy. Failure of TPP would not only deny the United States economic benefits but also be a severe blow to U.S. credibility and leadership in the region, according to a report Huntsman co-authored. Pulling out would be politically expedient but ultimately self-defeating.

Huntsman, who was U.S. ambassador to China during President Obamas first term, was a longtime supporter of the agreement, meant to improve trade between the United States and East Asian countries, not including China. Trump withdrew the United States from TPP just days after entering the White House.

Huntsman goes before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Tuesday for his confirmation hearings. Those question-and-answer sessions are traditionally an opportunity not just to take stock of a nominee but also to dissect a presidents policy.

Huntsman is hardly an unknown, a former Utah governor who made a failed White House run in 2012. Senate aides of both parties predict hell be confirmed.

But Tuesdays hearing  shortly after Trump makes his maiden speech to the U.N. General Assembly  will dig into U.S. relations with Russia, notably the presidents frequently stated desire for better relations, as well as the U.S. intelligence communitys evidence that Moscow interfered in the 2016 election.

Compared to Russias invasion of Ukraine and its alleged meddling in the race between Trump and Hillary Clinton, TPP is a mere footnote in the souring of Russian-American relations.

But Russia publicly opposed the pact, viewing it (much as the agreements backers did) as an effort by the United States to cement its influence in Asia.

Story continues

Obviously, the Trans-Pacific Partnership is just another U.S. attempt to build an architecture of regional economic cooperation that the U.S.A. would benefit from, Putin said in a November 2015 interview with Chinese media. I believe that the absence of two major regional players such as Russia and China in its composition will not promote the establishment of effective trade and economic cooperation.

Jon Huntsman and Zhejiang Provincial Governor Lu Zushan exchange gifts during a meeting on Oct. 28, 2009, in Hangzhou, China. (Photo: Eugene Hoshiko /AFP/Getty Images)

A year later, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov complained that Russia had been shut out of TPP as well as the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

Both have been declared as closed-door associations to which countries chosen by the European Union in the case of the Transatlantic Partnership and the Americans in the case of the Trans-Pacific Partnership have been individually invited. No one else is invited, and besides the negotiations are secretive in both cases, Lavrov said.

We regard this as an undesirable trend, which is even dangerous and destructive as it may damage the universal multilateral trade system, Lavrov said.

Both candidates in the 2016 election opposed TPP, in the face of voter concerns that it would cost American jobs. Trump pulled the United States out of the agreement, but Hillary Clinton had said she would do the same.

It sounds good rhetorically on the stump to attack TPP, Huntsman said in a June 2016 interview with the Wall Street Journal. But the agreement will serve as our strategic backbone in the region.

That will have to be recognized and dealt with. You just cant wish it away, you cant renegotiate it. You cant open up trade agreements that have already been done, Huntsman said. Nobody would ever negotiate with you again. Nobody would ever have confidence in the United States again to do another trade agreement.

_____

Read more from Yahoo News:
NEW YORK (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Monday he was considering staging a U.S. military parade in Washington on the July 4 Independence Day holiday, inspired by the parade he saw on Bastille Day in Paris.

Meeting French President Emmanuel Macron on the fringes of the U.N. General Assembly, Trump said he had asked his White House chief of staff, retired Marine Corps General John Kelly, to look into the possibility of holding such a display of U.S. military might.

Trump said he marveled at the French parade that he saw with Macron on France's July 14 national holiday.

"To a large extent because of what I witnessed, we may do something like that on July 4 in Washington down Pennsylvania Avenue," he told reporters. "We're actually looking into it."

(Reporting by Steve Holland; Editing by Peter Cooney)
Baghdad (AFP) - Iraq's supreme court on Monday ordered the suspension of a September 25 referendum on the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan, to examine whether such a poll would be constitutional.

"The supreme court has issued the order to suspend organising the referendum set for September 25... until it examines the complaints it has received over this plebiscite being unconstitutional," it said in a statement.

The court took the decision after it "reviewed requests to stop the referendum", the statement said.

Court spokesman Ayas al-Samouk, told AFP: "We have received several complaints and this is why we decided to suspend the referendum."

A source in parliament said at least three lawmakers had filed complaints against the poll.

Neighbours Turkey and Iran, as well as the United States and United Nations, have pleaded for the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq to settle its differences with Baghdad through negotiations rather than secession.

Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani has said a "yes" vote would not trigger an immediate declaration of independence but rather kick-start "serious discussions" with Baghdad.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israel on Monday inaugurated with its US ally a joint missile defence base on Israeli soil, the first ever, a senior Israeli air force officer said.

The new facility, at an undisclosed location in southern Israel, was announced as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was due to meet US President Donald Trump in New York on the fringes of the UN General Assembly.

"We inaugurated, with our partners from the United States Army, an American base, for the first time in Israel," Brigadier General Tzvika Heimowitz, head of Israeli missile defences, told journalists.

"An American flag is flying permanently over a US army base situated inside one of our bases."

Heimowitz said the move was not a direct response to any specific incident or immediate threat, but was a combination of "lessons learned" in the 2014 war in Gaza and intelligence analysis of future dangers.

"We have many enemies around us, near and far," he said.

The outgoing Israel air force chief in June warned neighbours of the "unimaginable" military power at the country's disposal.

On September 7 Syria's army accused Israeli warplanes of hitting one of its positions, killing two people in an attack that a monitor said targeted a site where the regime allegedly produces chemical weapons.

Israel, without confirming it was behind the attack, indirectly warned Syria and Iran that it would not tolerate any "Shiite corridor from Tehran to Damascus".

Israel accuses Iran of building sites to produce "precision-guided missiles" in both Syria and Lebanon and Netanyahu is expected to reiterate the point in his talks with Trump.

The country has bought 50 F-35 stealth fighters from the United States.

Israel has a sophisticated anti-missile defence system, including the Iron Dome short-range interceptor which has successfully brought down rockets fired from Syria, Lebanon, Egypt's lawless Sinai region and the Gaza Strip.

Story continues

It also has the medium-range David's Sling and the Arrow missile defence system, designed to counter more distant threats.

Heimowitz did not comment on the specific role of the new joint base, but said the "few dozen" US personnel there would be under Israeli command.

"This is not part of an exercise or manoeuvre," he said. "It is a presence as part of the joint effort of Israel and the US to improve defence."
Kevin Hart has found himself in a quite the situation.

The comedian is currently dealing with some serious issues as hes being extorted for millions of dollars, while working on apologizing to his family and fans for the scenario that contributed to him landing in this position in the first place.

Saturday evening, Hart posted a video to his Instagram page to apologize to his wife, Eniko Parrish, and kids, as well as vaguely explain whats going on.

I gotta do better and I will. Im not perfect and have never claimed to be ...I love you all, he captioned the video.

The 38-year-old actor started off the video by expressing his feelings about where he is in life and about a particular situation that happened in the past, as well as the current aftermath of that scenario.

Im at a place in my life where I feel like I have a target on my back, Hart said at the start of the video. And because of that I should make smart decisions. And recently, I didnt. You know, Im not perfect. Im not going to sit up here and say that I am or claim to be in any way, shape or form. And I made a bad error in judgment and I put myself in a bad environment where only bad things can happen and they did.

The actor revealed that although he is sorry that he hurt his wife and kids, the people closest to him, and that hes apologized to them, hes not going to let anyone take advantage of him and the situation.

But Im also not going to allow a person to have financial gain off of my mistakes and in this particular situation that was what was attempted, Hart continued. I said Id rather fess up to my mistakes.

kevin hart

Photo: Getty Images

While he never directly states what the error hes referring to entails, TMZ has reported that a woman is trying to extort seven or eight figures from Hart over a video that reportedly shows him and the woman in a sexually provocative situation.

Story continues

The celebrity-focused website described the video as first showing Hart and the woman getting close and cozy, then cuts to a bedroom where no one can really be seen, but noises that sound sexual in nature can be heard, followed by a naked man getting dressed. TMZ has stated that the man at the end of the video has not been actually identified.

The woman supposedly asked for the millions of dollars in order to keep her quiet and the video, which sources told TMZ was filmed on an iPhone, safe from the world. Harts Instagram video looks to be a very-public response to her extortion plan and his way of saying that he wont be paying the money.

The FBI is now involved in the issue and has a suspect in the case, though it is unclear if the woman in the video and the person demanding to be paid are one and the same, according to TMZ.

There has been no other word from the actor regarding this situation. While hes normally very active on all social media platforms, he hasnt posted anything to his accounts since his apology video on Saturday.

Related Articles
A koala survived a 16-kilometre (10-mile) road trip in Australia clinging to the axle of a four wheel drive vehicle, before the driver stopped and heard the cries of the traumatized animal.

The female koala had crawled into the wheel arch while the car was parked in the hills on the outskirts of Adelaide, the state capital of South Australia.

The fire brigade was eventually called to take the wheel off in order to help a wildlife rescue worker free the animal.

I could smell her burnt fur, Jane Brister, from Fauna Rescue, told Reuters in a phone interview on Saturday. It would have been hot in there.

A koala sits trapped in the wheel well of a car after the wheel was removed to facilitate its rescue in Adelaide Credit: REUTERS

Sadly, although the koala was uninjured, Brister said the animal was a lactating mother which meant her joey - the term for infant marsupials - was missing.

I searched that night and the next day, and the next, but I never found it, she said.

After a couple of days of feeding in captivity, Brister released the koala back into the wild.

Koalas, often inaccurately described as bears, are marsupials, an order of mammals whose young are suckled in a pouch.

The koala was listed as a "vulnerable" species under an Australian conservation law in 2012. There are fewer than 100,000 of the animals left in the wild, perhaps even as few as 43,000, according to Australian Koala Foundation estimates.
KUWAIT, Sept 17 (Reuters) - Kuwait has ordered North Korea's ambassador to leave within a month as the Gulf country downgraded diplomatic relations with Pyongyang, a North Korean diplomat in the Gulf region said on Sunday.

The U.N. Security Council imposed new sanctions on North Korea earlier this month, and the United States called on countries to sever diplomatic and financial ties with it.

The diplomat, who asked not to be named, told Reuters the move followed Kuwait's decision to downgrade the North Korean diplomatic representation to charge d'affaires level.

In August, Kuwaiti authorities started taking measures against North Korea, such as cutting direct flights, after the Security Council imposed earlier sanctions on Pyongyang following missile tests.

Kuwait's announcement comes after U.S. President Trump met with the Gulf state's ruler in Washington earlier this month.

(Reporting by Ahmed Hagagy, writing by Aziz El Yaakoubi, editing by Louise Heavens)
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.
In August, Melania Trump was blasted for wearing Manolo Blahniks famous stiletto heels to visit victims of Hurricane Harvey in Texas.

Manolo Blahnik spoke out in defense of Melania Trump after the first lady wore heels to visit hurricane victims. (Photo: Getty Images)

Many labeled the put-together outfit as inappropriate for a disaster zone.

Now the legendary footwear designer has weighed in on the issue, telling Harpers Bazaar: I dont think shes insensitive.

I think shes working nonstop to make it work  possibly she was just wearing the shoes she left New York in, Blahnik added.

Yes, I think probably she could have worn Hunter boots, but she was wearing what she was wearing. Im not good at advising people on what to wear because they wear what they want to.

The footwear designer says he will continue to work with Trump. (Photo: PA)

He also disagrees with many of his fashion industry peers who have refused to dress the first lady. The likes of Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, and Phillip Lim have all openly spoken about their dislike for the Trump family, and have refused to support Melania by lending her clothes.

I have no interest whatsoever in dressing Melania Trump, Jacobs told WWD. Personally, Id rather put my energy into helping out those who will be hurt by [Donald] Trump and his supporters.

But Blahnik and Trump have been working together long before this nonsense, making it a natural choice for him to continue a relationship with the first lady.

I dont give a damn about [politics], and I dont know much about it. But in terms of fashion and beauty  well, I love her, shes a beauty, and thats all there is to it.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




Associated Press

Jose Irizarry accepts that hes known as the most corrupt agent in U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration history, admitting he became another man in conspiring with Colombian cartels to build a lavish lifestyle of expensive sportscars, Tiffany jewels and paramours around the world. The way Irizarry tells it, dozens of other federal agents, prosecutors, informants and in some cases cartel smugglers themselves were all in on the three-continent joyride known as Team America that chose cities for money laundering pick-ups mostly for party purposes or to coincide with Real Madrid soccer or Rafael Nadal tennis matches. We had free access to do whatever we wanted, the 48-year-old Irizarry told the AP in a series of interviews before beginning a 12-year federal prison sentence.
As computer vision and object recognition technology continue to mature, we're edging closer to automating away the exceedingly boring task of monitoring closed circuit TV cameras. Matroid is one of the startups leading the democratization of this variety of machine intelligence. The company is announcing a $10 million Series A this morning from NEA and Intel Capital that brings Matroid's total financing to $13.5 million.

We first wrote about Matroid's web platform for building custom video recognition detectors back in May. Customers can use their own videos and images to train detectors to recognize anything they want within videos or streams. This is a far more democratized approach than more traditional object recognition APIs.

In terms of commercialization, founder Reza Zadeh is focusing on the security and media markets for now. Fortune 500 companies will pay to monitor when their brands and key executives are featured on TV channels (check out Face-O-Matic for a political example of this). Meanwhile, other businesses will pay for a system to play the role of CCTV monitor, observing camera footage for long periods of time and flagging abnormalities for reference.

In addition to today's financing, Matroid is announcing that it is working with Intel to assist them with executing computer vision tasks on their chips. Instead of building its own computer vision-enabled hardware, Matroid is building inroads inside the hardware ecosystem to implement its technology. Zadeh defends this move by asserting that building hardware is effectively a race to the bottom.

"Eventually all cameras will have some ability to understand what they're looking at," Zadeh explained to me in an interview.

This makes a lot of sense -- it's tough to do all of the real time analysis necessary in the cloud and edge computing is having something of a renaissance. So to start, Intel is acting as a customer of Matroid as well as a strategic investor assisting with go-to-market.

Zadeh is leveraging his connections as a Stanford professor to build a community around Matroid. His Scaled Machine Learning conference brought together researchers from Google, Intel, NVIDIA and OpenAI, among other companies and institutions. These experts are helping to support the creation of new and shareable detectors on Matroid.
By Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis hinted on Monday about the existence of military options on North Korea that might spare Seoul from a brutal counterattack but declined to say what kind of options he was talking about or whether they involved the use of lethal force. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said on Sunday the U.N. Security Council had run out of options on containing North Korea's nuclear program and that the United States might have to turn the matter over to the Pentagon. Any conflict on the Korean peninsula could easily result in a degree of bloodshed unseen since the 1950-53 Korean War, which claimed the lives of more than 50,000 Americans and millions of Koreans and ended in an armed truce, not a peace treaty. Seoul is within artillery range of North Korea, which beyond nuclear and conventional weapons is also believed to have a sizable chemical and biological arsenal. Asked whether there were any military options the United States could take with North Korea that would not put Seoul at grave risk, Mattis said: "Yes there are. But I will not go into details." Pressed on whether that might include so-called "kinetic" options that use lethal force, Mattis said: "I don't want to go into that." Military options available to Trump range from non-lethal actions like a naval blockade aimed at enforcing sanctions to waging cyber attacks and positioning new U.S. weaponry in South Korea, where the United States has 28,500 troops. South Korea has raised the possibility of reintroducing nuclear weapons to the peninsula. Mattis acknowledged discussing that with his South Korean counterpart but declined to say whether that option was under consideration. "We have open dialogue with our allies on any issue that they want to bring up," he said. U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted that any use of lethal force against North Korea would be overwhelming, using phrases like "fire and fury" that evoke images of nuclear war. MILITARY DRILLS The U.S. military said on Monday it had staged bombing drills with South Korea, flying a pair of B-1B bombers and F-35 fighter jets over the Korean peninsula, in a show of force against North Korea. Still, despite heated rhetoric and posturing in the United States and North Korea, there has been no positioning of U.S. military assets to suggest a military conflict is imminent. Trump has vowed that North Korea will never be allowed to threaten the United States with a nuclear-tipped missile, but he has also asked China to do more to rein in its neighbor. China in turn favors an international response to the problem. Mattis told reporters that he believed diplomacy and sanctions were so far succeeding in putting more pressure on Pyongyang. "So, yes, it's working," he said. Even as tensions rise, the United States and its allies have stuck to a hands-off policy when North Korea test-fires its missiles. Mattis confirmed that policy on Monday, saying it would not shoot down a North Korean missile unless it poses a direct threat to the United States or its allies. He said Pyongyang's calculus appeared to be designed to race forward with its missile program, "without going over some kind of a line in their minds that would make them vulnerable." (Reporting by Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali; Editing by Jonathan Oatis)
In case it wasn't already clear that Microsoft is big on the concept of mixed reality (read: augmented and virtual reality), the company is about to drive the point home. It's inviting the media to a Windows Mixed Reality event in San Francisco on October 3rd, and it promises that you'll see "where Microsoft is headed next" in the wearable technology space. For the most part, this will revolve around the plethora of WMR headsets arriving on October 17th alongside Windows 10's Fall Creators Update. We'd expect Microsoft to highlight games and other software experiences that take advantage of the hardware, too.

An event like this isn't surprising. For Microsoft, Windows Mixed Reality is its big chance at controlling the future of headset technology, particularly VR -- it's no doubt worried that Oculus, HTC or another third-party might dominate the industry. Even if the presentation doesn't include any earth-shaking announcements, it'll indicate that Microsoft is serious about the field and intends to stay for the long haul.
When Emily Beckett went in for her 10-week pregnancy scan, the last thing she expected to get was a sign from the other side.

Mom-to-be Emily Beckett holding photos of her grandmother and her ultrasound. (Photo: Emily Beckett)

But the 23-year-old says that her late grandmother decided to make an appearance in the ultrasound photos, leaving the mom-to-be shocked and happily surprised.

Beckett, who lives in Liverpool, England, had her routine scan in August and was taken aback when a nurse told her of the bizarre sight in the top corner of her ultrasound.

Beckett says she was shocked by what she saw in her ultrasound images. (Photo: Emily Beckett)

It was a complete shock, Beckett told the Liverpool Echo. When the nurse said she could see another face, I just presumed she was talking about the baby.

Becketts grandmother Elizabeth Jean Booth, who died from cancer in 2014, was like a second mom to her and sister, Gemma.

My nan was like a parent to myself and my sister Gemma, so Im not surprised she has decided to make an appearance  she wouldnt have wanted to miss out on my pregnancy, she told the Liverpool Echo.

With Emilys gran making no secret of her wish for grandchildren when she was alive, the mother-to-be has described the sighting as a gift, and shes hoping Jean will make another appearance during her next scan in November.

Read more from Yahoo Style + Beauty:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.
The mother of Kenneka Jenkins, the teenager who was found dead last Sunday in a Rosemont hotel freezer, has claimed the timeline of the videos released so far in the death of her daughter "makes no sense."

Tereasa Martin, along with friends and other family members, carried out a protest Saturday to the FBI Chicago headquarters, calling for a federal investigation amid rising conspiracy theories. Im just looking for help, thats all Ive been asking for since day one," Martin said, adding she believed there was a cover-up in her daughters mysterious death case. Martin, along with other activists at the protest, alleged the surveillance video of her daughters final moments was altered.

It doesnt make sense  and Im not a professional, but the FBI from what I heard  they are professionals," Martin said, according to Chicago Tribune.

The teenager's death in Rosemont, Illinois, sparked protests and social media outrage after Jenkins' body was found in Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel's kitchen freezer, a day after she went missing. The 19-year-old was partying at the hotel with her friends on Friday night. Her family had filed a missing report the next day when she did not return home.

On Friday, Rosemont Police released a surveillance video showing the teenager wandering alone in a deserted kitchen area of the hotel. In the video, Jenkins can be seen losing balance as she walks. The moments captured in the video are believed to be the last time Jenkins was seen alive. However, the video does not show how she ended up in the freezer, raising doubts about a cover-up.

Activists at the protest threatened 30 days of the demonstration outside the Crowne Plaza hotel if they weren't given the "full" version of the tape, claiming that only a doctored version of the surveillance video had been released.

"We're here at the FBI building asking for a second look," activist Mark Carter told reporters. If we cant get the answers that we want, then we must cause Rosemont an economic hardship. They must feel this. No cover up. You will not cover up the death of our children. This has gone on for far too long."

Story continues

Th cause of Jenkins' death is yet to be ascertained, and attorneys for the family say they might seek a second autopsy and also conduct their own investigation if required.

Jenkins' death caused a social media stir with people asking for answers as to what happened to the teenager. Several conspiracy theories also made rounds with some claiming that Jenkins was set up by her friends who got her raped for money, the hotel was involved in organ trading or she was drugged before her death.

Related Articles
Gradually, the PSA Group's statements are turning more favorable regarding selling cars in the United States. Speaking at the Frankfurt Auto Show, PSA CEO Carlos Tavares said that its next generation of vehicles would be engineered to meet US-specific regulations. Perhaps this is partially down to PSA recently acquiring Opel, which surely has granted the company with some Buick DNA; if the new Regal's eventual successor would be built on the same platform as PSA's other brands, building them all to suit US requirements and tastes would make sense.



According to Automotive News, Tavares said, "From three years down the road, we'll be able to push the button, if we decide to do so, in terms of product compliance vis-a-vis the US regulations." This, and Tavares' statement that PSA has already decided which brand it would be selling in the States, Peugeot, Citroen or DS, corresponds interestingly to the sentiments expressed in April.



Back then, Tavares said that entering the US market would be a ten-year-project, "not about jumping in and creating market share as quickly as possible." While there is not yet word on which brand will be sold in the U.S., or whether it will be the first of the three, the company is slowly appearing more positive about expanding west. At first, PSA's plan to enter the US market is via mobility services, according to its "Push to Pass" global business plan; selling cars to individual customers comes later.



Related Video:
Hamida is one of more than 400,000 Rohingya refugees who has fled violence in Myanmar in the last few weeks. (Photo: Mohammad Ponir Hossain / Reuters)

The bloodshed overtaking Myanmars Rakhine state forced Hamida, a Rohingya Muslim, to run from her homeland last week. She, her husband Nasir Ahmed, their two young sons and about a dozen other refugees boarded a small fishing boat crossing the Bay of Bengal to the Bangladesh village of Shah Porir Dwip, Reuters reported.

The photo below was taken when the family arrived in Teknaf, Bangladesh after their boat capsized. She survived, but Abdul Masood, her 40-day-old infant, did not.

I rushed to the spot and found people crying over the dead body of a child, Reuters photographer Mohammad Ponir Hossain said.

Hamidas and Nasir Ahmeds horror mirrors ones that thousands of families have experienced in recent weeks following recent unrest in the area. The Rohingya community, an ethnic minority in Myanmar, have been persecuted for decades, but violence flared up last month after Rohingya militants attacked local police posts. Local government forces responded with a widespread crackdown of Rohingya villages across the northwest part of the country, pillaging villages, leaving hundreds dead and threatening thousands more.

More than 400,000 Rohingya people have fled Myanmar into Bangladesh. Some of the refugees have recounted the scenes of carnage they left behind in Rakhine state.

We were all watching what the military did, Soe Win, a 10th-grade teacher, told The Washington Post from Ukhia, Bangladesh. They slaughtered them one by one. And the blood flowed in the streets.

Bangladeshs government announced Sunday that it plans to build shelters capable of accommodating 400,000 people in the next ten days. The refugees wont be allowed outside the camps, the government said.

Nasir Ahmed cradles his dead son. (Photo: Mohammad Ponir Hossain / Reuters)

Myanmars de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi has drawn international condemnation over her response to the violence, which she has dismissed as being the product of a huge iceberg of misinformation.

Suu Kyi is expected to address the issue on Tuesday in a televised speech to the United Nations General Assembly, which meets this week in New York. She said last week that she would not be attending the gathering in person due to the crisis.

Story continues

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres told the BBC on Sunday that the address is Suu Kyis last chance to put an end to the violence.

If she does not reverse the situation now, then I think the tragedy will be absolutely horrible, and unfortunately then I dont see how this can be reversed in the future, Guterres warned.

Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch has called for targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on Myanmars military.

Burmese security forces are committing ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya and disregarding the condemnation of world leaders, said John Sifton, HRWs Asia advocacy director. The time has come to impose tougher measures that Burmas generals cannot ignore.

(Photo: Mohammad Ponir Hossain / Reuters)

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

An exhausted Rohingya refugee woman touches the shore after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border by boat through the Bay of Bengal, in Shah Porir Dwip, Bangladesd, on Sept. 11, 2017.

Rohingya Muslim refugees disembark from a boat on the Bangladeshi side of Naf river in Teknaf on Sept. 13, 2017.

Recently arrived Rohingya refugees wait to receive aid donations on Sept. 13, 2017, in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

Exhausted Rohingya refugees rest on the shore after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border by boat through the Bay of Bengal in Shah Porir Dwip, Bangladesh, on Sept. 10, 2017.

Rohingya refugees reach out their hands to grab aid packages in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 17, 2017.

Rokeya Begum, 23, holds her 4-day-old twins born in a makeshift tent on Sept. 17, 2017, in Kutupalong, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

Rohingyas are seen after arriving by boat on Sept. 14, 2017, in Shah Porir Dip, Bangladesh.

Rohingya refugee children carry an old woman in a sling near the Balukhali makeshift refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 13, 2017.

This photograph taken on Sept. 12, 2017, shows Rohingya refugees arriving by boat at Shah Parir Dwip on the Bangladesh side of the Naf River after fleeing violence in Myanmar.

A Rohingya Muslim woman gets off a boat after crossing over from Myanmar into the Bangladesh side of the border, in Shah Porir Dwip near Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh on Sept. 13, 2017. Rohingya Muslims pay local fishers 36 U.S. dollars in order to cross to Shah Porir Dwip peninsula.

A Rohingya refugee girl sits next to her mother who rests after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, in Teknaf, Bangladesh, on Sept. 6, 2017.

A Rohingya refugee man pulls a child as they walk to the shore after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border by boat through the Bay of Bengal in Shah Porir Dwip, Bangladesh, on Sept. 10, 2017.

Rohingya Muslim refugees build temporary makeshift shelters, after crossing the border from Myanmar, in the Bangladeshi town of Teknaf on Sept. 10, 2017.

Rohingya refugee people take part in Eid al-Adha prayer near the Kutupalang makeshift refugee camp, in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 2, 2017.

Rohingya refugees climb up a hill after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 8, 2017.

A Rohingya refugee boy stands in a queue to receive relief supplies given by local people in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 16, 2017.

A Rohingya refugee carries a child through a paddy field after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, in Teknaf, Bangladesh, on Sept. 6, 2017.

A local man carries an old Rohingya refugee woman as she is unable to walk after crossing the border, in Teknaf, Bangladesh, on Sept. 1, 2017.

A Rohingya refugee boy walks in the water after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border in Teknaf, Bangladesh, on Sept. 1, 2017.

Rohingya refugees stands in an open place during heavy rain, as they are held by Border Guard Bangladesh after illegally crossing the border, in Teknaf, Bangladesh, on Aug. 31, 2017.

Rohingya refugees stretch their hands to receive aid distributed by local organizations at Balukhali makeshift refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 14, 2017.

Rohingya refugees walk on a muddy path at Thaingkhali makeshift refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, on Sept. 14, 2017.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Politics and television came together at the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. The shows host, Stephen Colbert, got the night started with an opening musical number that included actors from The Americans, This Is Us, and Stranger Things, along with Chance the Rapper. Colbert sang about escaping reality through TV, claiming that everything is better on TV.

Spicey time!

Colbert also got some help during his monologue when former White House press secretary Sean Spicer came out onstage with a POTUS-type podium and declared, This will be the largest audience to witness an Emmys, period. Both in person and around the world. Colbert added, Wow, that really soothes my fragile ego. I can understand why you would want one of these guys around.

Trump shade

The political theme continued throughout the night, such as when Alec Baldwin won an Emmy for his portrayal of Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live. Baldwin said, I suppose I should say, at long last, Mr. President, here is your Emmy. And during a sweet 9 to 5 reunion, Lily Tomlin compared Trump to their mean ol boss in the movie. Tomlin said, And in 2017, we still refuse to be controlled by a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.

Emmys history

As for the award winners, it was a historic night for Atlanta star Donald Glover, and Master of None star Lena Waithe. They both became the first African-Americans to win their respective categories: Glover for Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series and Waithe for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series.

Big Winners

The other big winners of the night included Veep, The Handmaids Tale, Big Little Lies, and Last Week Tonight With John Oliver. During one of Olivers acceptance speeches, he got #DCPublicSchools trending, doubling down on a joke Dave Chappelle had made earlier in the show. Colbert and last years Emmys host, Jimmy Kimmel, werent happy about losing to Oliver, because both of their late-night shows were also nominated, so the two drank their sorrows away with a cocktail called the Last Week Tonight. Kimmel said, Yeah, its a dry British cocktail, and Colbert added, Its so high quality, apparently they can only make one a week.

Story continues

For a complete list of winners and all the Emmys stuff you can handle, head to Emmys.com.

Check out Stephen Colberts monologue at the Emmys:





Read more from Yahoo TV:

Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below.
A group of peaceful protesters assembled in St. Louis on Sunday afternoon, marking a third consecutive day of demonstrations against the acquittal of a former police officer who fatally shot a black suspect.

At around 3 p.m. local time, protesters began gathering outside St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department headquarters. In a tweet shortly after they began assembling, the department characterized the gathering as a [p]eaceful demonstration.

Another protest kicking off at the St Louis Police headquarters. Close to 200 pple here #ksdknews #stockley pic.twitter.com/At51yRaEoJ  PJ Randhawa (@PJKSDK) September 17, 2017

Large, peaceful crowd gathered in front of St Louis police HQ. pic.twitter.com/25ljHMYQ5A  Scott Cohn (@ScottCohnTV) September 17, 2017

Protesters have been taking to St. Louis streets since Friday, when a judge acquitted white former St. Louis police officer Jason Stockley, 36, for fatally shooting black drug suspect Anthony Lamar Smith, 24, in 2011.

Stockley, who shot Smith five times after the man fled from him and his partner during an attempted arrest, testified that he saw Smith holding a revolver. Prosecutors allege that Stockley planted the gun in Smiths car after the shooting, as the weapon carried his DNA but not Smiths. In a video obtained by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Stockley can be heard saying that hes going to kill this motherf****r, just minutes before he shot Smith.

Story continues

While isolated instances of violence during Friday and Saturday protests led to arrests, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson  whose home was damaged by some protesters  emphasized that the demonstrations have been largely peaceful.

It may not look like it in the media, but yesterdays protests were mostly non-violent, she said in a statement Saturday. Unfortunately, we had incidents of sporadic violence and vandalism that will be the lasting images written about and played on television.

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

The HuffPost bus can be seen with the Gateway Arch in the background in Illinois on Sept. 11 as "Listen to America: A HuffPost Road Trip" kicks off. The bus will visit more than 20 cities on our tour across the country.

HuffPost and Peak XV Global Events complete preparations for the bus tour.

HuffPost staff in front of a mural at The Grove business district.

A nighttime walk down a St. Louis street.

HuffPost staff play pool at the HandleBar in St. Louis.

Reporter Jenna Amatulli rides a bike sculpture in front of the HandleBar.

Signs for The Grove business district cast a glow on St. Louis streets.

The iconic Gateway Arch.

The pods inside the Gateway Arch empty before another run to the top.

Jolie Doggett sits in a pod headed to the top of the arch.

Tourists look out the windows at the top of the Gateway Arch.

A view of the city from the top of the arch.

The Mississippi River and Illinois can be seen from the top of the arch.

Harry Weber's statue of rock legend Chuck Berry, a St. Louis native, is in Delmar Loop across from Blueberry Hill.

The HuffPost tour bus.

HuffPost Editor-in-Chief Lydia Polgreen with her wife, Candy Feit, left, and strategy director Hillary Frey talk before the "Listen to America: A HuffPost Road Trip" kickoff event.

HuffPost Editor-in-Chief Lydia Polgreen speaks to the crowd at the St. Louis stop.

Rev. Starsky Wilson speaks with artist Robert Powell.

The HuffPost tour bus stops at Kiener Plaza Park near the Gateway Arch.

HuffPost Editor-in-Chief Lydia Polgreen is interviewed.

Artist and educator Robert Powell, left, talks with Chris King, editorial director of the St. Louis American.

Dr. Donald Suggs, owner of the St. Louis American, speaks at the kickoff event.

The tour bus.

Producer Will Tooke prepares to conduct an interview on the bus with David Wraith of Sex Positive St. Louis.

The HuffPost bus at The Loop.

Reporter Jenna Amatulli uses the microphone to speak to passersby.

Hip-hop artist Quizzy James and Lena Anderson check out a post card.

Reporter Jenna Amatulli, left and "Noskov at Night" radio host Vladimir Noskov listen to Jeremiah Long.

The HuffPost Tour bus outside The Royale restaurant and bar in South City St. Louis.

At The Royale before the "Three Years After Ferguson: Seeking Solutions in St. Louis" event.

St. Louis American Editorial Director Chris King speaks to police Sgt. Kevin Ahlbrand, left, lawyer Blake Strode, organizer and activist Kayla Reed, Alderwoman Megan E. Green and Rev. Starsky Wilson.

The audience at the "Three Years After Ferguson: Seeking Solutions in St. Louis" event.

St. Louis organizer and activist Kayla Reed talks about the aftermath of the fatal police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.

Lawyer Blake Strode on the panel about Ferguson's after-effects.

Rev. Starsky D. Wilson is president and CEO of Deaconess Foundation and former leader of the Ferguson Commission.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
As Manhattan locks down and world leaders fly in to attend President Donald Trumps first U.N. General Assembly in office, Vladimir Putin tops the absentee list.

Instead, the Russian president will observe the start of the main part of a war game his military is conducting along NATOs eastern border, the Kremlin told state news agency Itar-Tass Monday.

The Russian president will not make the trip to New York City this year, after delivering a polarizing speech from the U.N. podium when he last attended the annual session in 2015, in which he blamed Western leaders for the rise of extremism and hinted at Russias soon-to-be-announced foray into Syria.

In a now-infamous side twist of his 2015 trip, CBS broadcast an interview with Putin on 60 Minutes back-to-back with a segment featuring Trump. The fact that the pair were on the program in the same episode prompted Trump to boast that he had gotten to know his stablemate Putin very well on the show.

The odd claim was rendered meaningless by the fact that the pair gave their interviews on different days and countries apart.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed at the start of the month that Putin would not be going to the U.N. General Assembly, stating that the trip was not in the president's plans. Not for the first time, Putin is sending Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to lead the Russian delegations. On Monday, the Kremlin revealed Putins actual plans for the day, announcing that while Russian diplomats take their seats, Putin will be in the command room for Russias Zapad drill, near St. Petersburg.

The drill, held jointly with Russias westernmost military ally Belarus, has unnerved NATO allies for months, some of whom have compared it to a simulated assault, an annexation or a bid to place troops near NATO and not pull them back.

Before Putins arrival in the Luzhskiy training range, Su-24M front fencer bombers practiced hitting targets there Monday. The Kremlin did not say what sort of training activity Putin would personally oversee in the Leningrad region.

Story continues

Putins decision to stay away from the General Assembly is not out of character, as he keeps his U.N. visits rare, though his trips to the West have dried up from his calendar exponentially in recent years, says Roderic Lyne, former U.K. ambassador to Russia.

Putin is traveling much less now than in his earlier years, and has made few visits to the West since the annexation of Crimea. It's not comfortable territory for himespecially the U.S.A. in the wake of the latest sanctions and diplomatic spats.

I think this is an understandable and expected decision, says Lilia Shevtsova, associate fellow at Chatham Houses Russia and Eurasia program. It is not so much that Putin is making a point with his absence, she says, but rather, he may be absent because he has no point to make.

In order to take part in the 72nd Session of the General Assembly, Putin has to deliver some message, she says. But what could his message be now? It looks like Moscow has not decided on whether to adopt a more confrontational approach to the West and the U.S. or a softer line.

Russian government officials have repeatedly tried to blame the continuing deterioration in relations with the U.S. at lawmakers and figures besides Trump. However, as the current administration has increased punitive actions on Russia without a push from Congress, Putin and his Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev have criticized U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Trump himself.

If the agenda at the U.N. is dominated by Trumps program to trim spending on the U.N. and reform the body, Russia has little to contribute.

According to Shevtsova, the Kremlin's ambivalence on Trump extends to Russia's "lack of readiness" to make a contribution to the leading topic going into the summitU.N. reform. Thus, she says, Putin prefers to watch the developments from Moscow.

Related Articles
By Andrew Osborn MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin observed Russia's biggest war games in years on Monday, watching as his forces successfully repelled an imaginary enemy and launched a tank-led counter offensive, part of an exercise that has rattled the West. NATO officials say they are monitoring the "Zapad-2017" ("West-2017") war games with "calm and confidence", but many are unnerved about what they see as Moscow testing its ability to wage war against the West. Russia says the exercise is rehearsing a purely defensive scenario. Putin, commander-in-chief of Russia's armed forces, sat in a command center flanked by his defense minister and the chief of his General Staff, and used binoculars to peer through a cold drizzle at the simulated conflict unfolding before his eyes. The Russian leader has appeared at similar events in the past, sometimes donning a military uniform, and uses them to bolster his image among Russians as a robust defender of the country's interests on the world stage. This time, the 64-year-old president, who is widely expected to run for re-election in March, wore a dark suit and looked relaxed as the firing range in front of him, in the Leningrad region, was briefly transformed into a war zone. Tracer bullets lit up the murky skyline, battle tanks churned across muddy terrain, shells exploded, helicopters fired missiles, planes roared overhead and hundreds of paratroopers and armored vehicles were dropped from the skies. The paratroopers, inserted behind the lines of their imaginary enemy, then waged war against what the defense ministry called "illegal armed formations." The over-arching Zapad war games, which began on Sept. 14 and run to Sept. 20, are taking place in western Russia, Russia's exclave of Kaliningrad, and Belarus, a Russian ally which borders Ukraine as well as NATO member states Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. Moscow says almost 13,000 Russian and Belarussian service personnel are taking part, as well as around 70 planes and helicopters. It says almost 700 pieces of military hardware are being deployed, including almost 250 tanks, 10 ships and various artillery and rocket systems. NATO officials have said they believe the exercises involve more troops than Moscow has disclosed, however, and have complained about what they say is the lack of transparency about the exercise, an allegation Russia rejects. As part of the same drills, Russia on Monday said it had successfully test fired a ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, hitting a target at a firing range in Kazakhstan about 480 km (300 miles) away. Moscow says it is the West that threatens stability in eastern Europe because NATO has put a 4,000-strong multinational force in the Baltics and Poland, while the U.S. Army has deployed 600 paratroopers to the Baltics during Zapad. As a precaution, the United States has also temporarily taken over guardianship of the airspace of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, which lack capable air forces and air defense systems. (Editing by Janet Lawrence)
(NEW YORK)  The Trump administration is considering closing down the recently reopened U.S. Embassy in Havana following a string of unexplained incidents harming the health of American diplomats in Cuba, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Sunday.

Tillersons comments were the strongest indication to date that the United States might mount a major diplomatic response, potentially jeopardizing the historic restart of relations between the U.S. and Cuba. The two former foes reopened embassies in Washington and Havana in 2015 after a half-century of estrangement.

We have it under evaluation, Tillerson said of a possible embassy closure. Its a very serious issue with respect to the harm that certain individuals have suffered. Weve brought some of those people home. Its under review.

Of the 21 medically confirmed U.S. victims  diplomats and their families  some have permanent hearing loss or concussions, while others suffered nausea, headaches and ear-ringing. Some are struggling with concentration or common word recall, The Associated Press has reported .

Some victims felt vibrations or heard loud sounds mysteriously audible in only parts of rooms, leading investigators to consider a potential sonic attack. Others heard nothing but later developed symptoms.

Tillerson once called the events health attacks, but the State Department has since used the term incidents while emphasizing the U.S. still doesnt know what has occurred. Cuba has denied any involvement or responsibility but stressed its eager to help the U.S. resolve the matter.

The U.S. has said the tally of Americans affected could grow as more cases are potentially detected.

The last reported incident was on Aug. 21, according to a U.S. official briefed on the matter. The official wasnt authorized to discuss the matter publicly and requested anonymity.

A decision to shutter the embassy, even temporarily, would deal a demoralizing blow to the delicate detente that President Barack Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro announced in late 2014. The next year, embassies were reopened and restrictions on travel and commerce eased  signs of a warming relationship that displeased some hard-liners in Cubas government. President Donald Trump has reversed some of the changes, but left many in place.

Story continues

Tillerson spoke on CBS Face the Nation as world leaders and top diplomats descended on New York for annual U.N. General Assembly meetings. President Donald Trump will give his first speech on the major global platform this week.

Cuba is also represented at the U.N., but its not expected Trump will meet with any Cuban leaders or officials during his visit.

The U.S. hasnt identified either a culprit or a device. Investigators have explored the possibility of sonic waves, an electromagnetic weapon, or an advanced spying operation gone awry, U.S. officials briefed on the probe told the AP. The U.S. hasnt ruled out that a third country or a rogue faction of Cubas security services might be involved.

In Washington, lawmakers in Congress have been raising alarm over the incidents, with some calling for the embassy to be closed. On Friday, five Republican senators wrote Tillerson urging him to not only shutter the embassy, but also kick all Cuban diplomats out of the United States  a move with dramatic diplomatic implications

Cubas neglect of its duty to protect our diplomats and their families cannot go unchallenged, said the lawmakers, who included Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who led the effort, and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, a prominent Cuban-American and critic of the U.S. detente.

The incidents have frightened Havanas tight-knit diplomatic community, raising concerns about the potential scope. At least one other country, France, has tested embassy staff for potential sonic-induced injuries, the AP has reported.
Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore sparked a wave of backlash on Sunday when he referred to Native Americans and Asians as "reds and yellows" during a campaign speech.

Roy Moore is set to face Luther Strange -- who has received President Trump's endorsement -- in a primary runoff next week, and the race is expected to be incredibly close. Moore, a former chief justice on Alabama's state Supreme Court, sparked backlash on Sunday when he used racially insensitive terms during a campaign speech.

We were torn apart in the Civil War  brother against brother, North against South, party against party. What changed? Moore said. "Now we have blacks and whites fighting, reds and yellows fighting, Democrats and Republicans fighting, men and women fighting."

RELATED: Roy Moore through the years



"Whats going to unite us? Whats going to bring us back together?" Moore continued. "A president? A Congress? No. Its going to be God."

Moore has been viewed by many as the "anti-establishment" candidate in this race, and has received the notable endorsement of FOX personality Sean Hannity.

According to The Hill, Moore's campaign has not yet responded to request for comment.

Watch Moore's full comments in the video below:
This article was co-published with Capital & Main.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), with the co-sponsorship of 16 Democrats, has introduced a Medicare for All bill to replace Americas health-care system with a public system. The details are scant, but in broad strokes Sanders proposes covering everything  from emergency surgery to prescription drugs, from mental health to eye care  without co-payments. The Affordable Care Acts market-based changes would be phased out as Medicare becomes the countrys insurer for everyone. While acknowledging that the bill would go nowhere in a Republican-controlled Congress, supporters hailed it as a starting point for discussions about the future of health-care reform.

The timing of the announcement is significant. Just weeks earlier Republicans failed to pass repeal and replace legislation in the Senate. The announcement also comes in the wake of a Kaiser Family Foundation survey showing that a majority of Americans53 percent  favor single payer, the highest level of support the foundation has found since 1998. When called Medicare for All, 57 percent approved.

Sanders proposal also comes less than three months after state Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon tabled an ambitious single-payer plan for California. The Healthy California Act, Senate Bill 562, would essentially eliminate private insurance companies, including giants Kaiser Permanente, Blue Cross and Anthem, and permit the state to contract with health providers and pay for health-care services. The bill passed the Senate on a 23-14 vote before it stalled in the Assembly in late June.

Single-payer advocates and health-care experts say Sanders proposal, with the support of a third of the Senates Democratic caucus, should inject new momentum for single payer in California, with its ostensibly friendlier two-thirds Democratic majority.

Michael Lighty, director of public policy with the California Nurses Association, a co-sponsor of SB-562 (and a financial supporter of this website), told Capital & Main that the increasing enthusiasm of Democratic U.S. Senators should light a fire under Speaker Rendon.

Story continues

The Democratic-controlled government of California has a responsibility to move this forward, Lighty said. Political will is the only thing standing in the way.

In justifying tabling the bill in late June, Rendon said it lacked details about how to pay its estimated $400 billion price tag. Lighty said Rendon tabled the bill without telling us. We were in the process of addressing his policy concerns and were going to put in a finance plan. All of Rendons objections could be addressed by regular order.

The $400 billion sticker price was misleading, he said. He pointed to a study by the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and commissioned by National Nurses United that showed California currently pays $368 billion per year on health care. SB-562 would only cost the state $331 billion, saving approximately $37 billion. The study proposed new income taxes and a 2.3 percent sales tax to generate $106 billion in additional revenue.

Kaiser, insurance companies and business leaders have pushed back against SB-562. The California Chamber of Commerce also opposed the bill, calling it a job killer that would result in significant new taxes on all Californians and California businesses.

But public support for single payer in California is high. Two recent surveys showed 65 and 70 percent of people in favor, respectively. That support is somewhat soft, however. When coupled with the possibility of new taxes, support for single-payer waned.

Richard Scheffler, director of the University of California, Berkeleys Global Center for Health Economics and Policy Research, said revenues for single payer could come in forms more palatable to the public.

The state could use so-called sin taxes, Scheffler said. There could be a marijuana tax. Its been a while since the alcohol tax was raised.

Scheffler agreed that the $400 billion cost was overinflated and misleading. When you have the state pick up the bill, there will be some savings, and the system will be more efficient, he said. You may have less opulent hospitals. Doctors may have to learn to live on $400,000 a year instead of $600,000.

The 2018 race for governor will add momentum to the push for single payer, Scheffler said.

Jerry Brown doesnt want [a single payer bill] on his desk, he said. Health care is not his issue. But I think we will see all of the candidates in the Democratic primary getting on board with single payer.

Gerald Kominski, director of the University of California, Los Angeles Center for Health Policy Research, said even more than Sanders bill, Republicans efforts to repeal the ACA have given single payer a big push in California and nationally.

Support for single payer is a reaction to the very real threat that health care will be taken away from 20 million Americans, Kominski said, adding that the Republicans repeal and replace plan is really just repeal.

Despite broad public support, advocates for single payer in California and nationally would be wise to craft their messaging to address how everyone could benefit and to bring Republicans on board, Kominski said.

There has to be an honest discussion about the details and the many ways of achieving the same goals, he said.

People are always wondering, Whats in it for me? he said. And those with employment-based health insurance, who are generally happy with it, worry about being worse off under single payer. Advocates need to address that perception and show the many advantages they would enjoy.

The momentum for single payer in California is there, Kominski added, but its going to be a real street fight to pass it.

Related Articles
DUBAI (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia arrested two rights campaigners, an international human-rights group said on Monday, in what it called a drive by the kingdom's rulers to crush the country's human rights movement. Abdulaziz al-Shubaily and Issa al-Hamid, both founding members of the Saudi Civil and Political Rights Association (ACPRA), were arrested over the weekend, Amnesty International said. Both were awaiting appeals of prison sentences handed down against them last year, on charges ranging from defaming the country's top religious body to communicating false information to harm the image of the state, according to an appeal by Amnesty on behalf of Hamid last year. Saudi officials could not immediately be reached to comment on the weekend's arrests, which come amid a crackdown on potential opponents of the kingdom's rulers that has attracted rebuke from rights groups. "This is a dark time for freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia," Samah Hadid, director of campaigns for Amnesty International in the Middle-East, said in a statement. "These two arrests have confirmed our fears that the new leadership under Mohammed bin Salman is determined to crush the Kingdoms human rights movement," she added, referring to the Saudi crown prince, seen to be running the global oil exporter. ACPRA was founded in 2009, then shut down in 2013. All 11 founding members have since been jailed. "Saudi Arabias embattled human rights community has already suffered heavily at the hands of the authorities, and now with these latest arrests almost all the countrys most prominent human rights defenders are in prison on bogus terrorism-related charges," Amnesty said in its statement on Monday. "These peaceful activists should be applauded for their courage in standing up for human rights, not rounded up and locked up." Saudi authorities have rounded up some 30 clerics, intellectuals and academics this month in what Human Rights Watch has described as "a coordinated crackdown on dissent" . (Reporting by Sami Aboudi, editing by Larry King)
Yes, the U.S. Constitution guarantees First Amendment protections for Muslims, atheists and all religious groups. (Photo: doublediamondphoto via Getty Images)

Nearly a quarter of Americans  22 percent  either dont know or dont believe that U.S. Muslims are granted the same constitutional protections as other citizens. Roughly 20 percent dont know or dont think that atheists are protected under the Constitution.

These are among the findings of a new study by the University of Pennsylvanias Annenberg Public Policy Center, released ahead of the Sept. 17 Constitution Day, which celebrates the anniversary of the U.S. Constitutions signing in 1787.

The survey asked respondents whether they thought it was accurate to say that U.S. citizens who are Muslims have the same rights as all other citizens. Seventy-six percent of those surveyed said it was very accurate or somewhat accurate, while 18 percent said it was very or somewhat inaccurate. Four percent said they didnt know.

On the same question about U.S. atheists, 79 percent said it was very accurate or somewhat accurate, and 15 percent said it was very or somewhat inaccurate. Five percent said they didnt know.

The annual Annenberg Constitution Day Civics Survey polled 1,013 U.S. adults about the government, the First Amendment and constitutional protections. This year marked the first time the survey included the questions about Muslims and atheists. The survey didnt ask respondents about their knowledge of protections granted to Christians or other religious groups.

But it isnt just the constitutional rights of Muslims and atheists that Americans are unclear on. Many Americans are highly misinformed about basic constitutional provisions, including what the First Amendment protects and even how the U.S. government is organized.

Fifty-three percent of Americans incorrectly think that undocumented immigrants arent afforded rights under the U.S. Constitution. In fact, the Supreme Court ruled on that issue in the 1886 decision, Yick Wo v. Hopkins, declaring that noncitizens were included in the 14th Amendments equal protection clause.

Story continues

Just 26 percent of Americans can name all three branches of government  down considerably from 38 percent in 2011, when APPC first included this question on the survey.

Thirty-seven percent of respondents were unable to name any of the rights guaranteed under the First Amendment. Just under half of those surveyed named freedom of speech as a right guaranteed by the First Amendment.

But far fewer could name the other First Amendment rights. Fifteen percent of respondents named freedom of religion; 14 percent identified freedom of the press; 10 percent named the right of assembly; and just three percent said the right to petition the government.

The First Amendment states:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Protecting the rights guaranteed by the Constitution presupposes that we know what they are. The fact that many dont is worrisome, said Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, in a statement. These results emphasize the need for high-quality civics education in the schools and for press reporting that underscores the existence of constitutional protections.

In the case of Muslims constitutional protections, misinformation can have real impact on peoples lives. Hate crimes against Muslims have risen sharply in recent years, often fueled by rhetoric from that paints the religious minority as outsiders in their own country.

A major tactic of anti-Muslim campaigns and commentators has been to cast Islam as a political ideology rather than a religion, which would preclude Muslims from receiving protections on the basis of their faith.

Thats been a common theme in the Islamophobia machine for a number of years  the claim that Islam is not a religion and therefore that it should not have the First Amendment protections of a religion, Ibrahim Hooper, national communications director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, told HuffPost.

I think this was really accelerated during the presidential campaigns, and now with the election of Donald Trump weve seen the mainstreaming of Islamophobic views such as this.

Hooper noted the difficulty findings like those from the Annenberg survey present to civil rights organizations like CAIR whose mission is to ensure that Muslims rights arent just recognized, but also protected.

That a quarter of the population believes Muslims arent even on the same playing field in terms of civil rights and religious rights and freedoms is a big hurdle to get over, he said. First you have to convince people that Muslims have the same rights as other Americans, and then you can go on to defend those actual rights.

Also on HuffPost

A Muslim photographer is working on an ambitious project that he hopes will tackle stereotypes about American Muslims and showcase the communitys rich diversity. Since the fall of 2015, Carlos Khalil Guzman has been using his free time and his own funds to travel across the country to interview an array of Muslims. In the series, titled Muslims of America, Guzman is attempting to capture portraits of Muslims from all 50 states in the country. The series includes people of different sects of Islam, ethnicities and backgrounds  from Native American Muslims to Syrian refugees to queer Muslims.



Check out photos from Guzmans project below, along with captions explaining each subjects favorite verse. Some of their responses have been edited for clarity. Follow the series as it unfolds on Guzmans Instagram account.

Myree, Medical Assistant, California

All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action.  Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)



"This is so important to me not only as a Muslim but also as an Afro-Latina. This states that Islam is against racism and discrimination. All humans are created equal. All that matters to God is the good a person does and the devotion we have for our creator." - Myree

Shadi, College Student, Boston

Heaven lies under the feet of your mother - Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)



"This hadith is one of my favorites because it talks about being mindful of our parents. In todays world, a lot of people do not respect their parents and treat them as if they are nothing. Of course there are times when our parents get on our nerves but before I even think or dare to say anything to them, I remember this hadith and it brings me back to reality. It allows me to do good instead of bad and this has helped me build a stronger relationship with my parents." - Shadi

Kenneth, College Student, California

 And whoever fears God -- He will make a way out for him. And will provide for him from where he never expected. Whoever relies on God -- He will suffice him. God will accomplish His purpose. God has set a measure to all things. - Quran Chapter 65 / Verses 2-3



"These verses remind me to always place my trust in God, no matter how hard things get. I have had lots of ups and downs in my life in terms of mental health. During my downs, I remember this verse and it motivates me to keep hope in the future, and to keep hope in myself. It reminds me of the power of prayer, as God can turn any situation around. When we have faith in God, He will set things moving for us in ways that we cannot even imagine." - Kenneth

Rula, College Student, Louisiana

And never say of anything, 'Indeed, I will do that tomorrow,' without adding, 'If Allah wills.' And remember your Lord when you forget and say, 'Perhaps my Lord will guide me to what is nearer than this to right conduct.'" - Quran Chapter 18 / Verses 23-24



"This verse, to me, is a significant reminder of Allah (God). Remembering to say 'inshallah,' if God wills, before speaking about plans is acknowledgement that as humans, we are not in control of everything. In a sense it is reassuring and personal because it relates to everybody. Growing up, its common that parents tell their kids 'inshallah' as a way to brush off their requests, as in 'OK, OK, if God wills.' I know my parents did. But as I grew older, I understood the value in relying on God and the love bestowed upon us. Its a reminder of our humanity, and how not everything is in our control. To see God in all things is to also see God in our daily lives in the smallest plans we make, such as studying for a test, or even getting coffee. God is so great, and it is a reminder not to stress with all the free will we have." - Rula

Fida, Librarian Aide, Oregon

In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful. [All] praise is [due] to Allah, Lord of the worlds. The Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful, Sovereign of the Day of Recompense. It is You we worship and You we ask for help. Guide us to the straight path. The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray.  Quran Chapter 1 / Verses 1-7



"I chose the verses from the first chapter (Al-Fatiha) of the Quran. These verses remind me of my childhood. My sisters and I would all gather together and we would recite it together or one by one. We were so proud of ourselves when we memorized it and we could see our parents were proud of us too. This surah (chapter) is the first in the Quran and I have always said it in times of fear, when I would think a ghost was in the room or if I was walking home late. I knew Allah (God) was watching and helping me. These words are powerful and they have helped me feel and be protected." - Fida

Osoul, Nursing Student, New Jersey

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear. - Quran Chapter 2 / Verse 286



"This specific ayah has gotten me through so much in my life, Alhamdulillah [Praise be to Allah]. I have had to deal with a lot growing up, whether it was family, illnesses or loss. In a way I was forced to mature at an early age and growing up I always wondered, 'Why!' You know, like why things happened the way they happened. But once I started getting closer to Allah, I realized that asking why things happen the way they do is the wrong approach to life. Instead we should ask Allah to make us strong enough to handle any obstacles thrown our way. Now every time something happens, I read this ayah and I remember that Allah will not burden me with anything I cannot handle. Allah wont burden me with something that will destroy me, it will only make me stronger for what is ahead inshallah. It is kind of like a little hope, you know, the light at the end of the tunnel." - Osoul

Nooran, College Student, New Hampshire

And Yunus (Jonah), when he went off in anger and thought that We would not decree anything upon him. And he called out within the darknesses, 'There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers.'" - Quran Chapter 21 / Verse 87



"I think it's the story and context of that verse that makes it my favorite. It is a prayer said by the Prophet Yunus (Jonah), who is swallowed by a whale and seems in a hopeless situation stuck in its belly. He makes this prayer when he realizes he has disobeyed God, and continues to repeat it so often that all the fish in the sea can hear him reciting it. God spares Yunus and he is spit out by the whale. This verse teaches me two very important things that I try to apply to my daily life. The first is that when a situation seems hopeless, put all your faith in God and rely on Him to make things better. The second is that self-critique is necessary even in hard times. The Prophet Yunus could not understand why God was doing this to him until he reflected and realized that he had been of the wrongdoers. In that very same way, we should strive to always reflect and better ourselves even in the hardest of times instead of being frustrated or angry at God." - Nooran

Hana, College Student, Georgia

"[Moses] said, 'No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me.'" - Quran Chapter 26 / Verse 62



"An ayah (verse) so simple and powerful, yet can be difficult to recollect when we allow this reality and this world to cloud our own visions. When I thought I was capable of carrying and dealing with everything on my own, I found myself lost, hurt and misguided. I allowed myself to forget that Allah (swt) can heal all my wounds and guide me, if I just called on Him. I had willingly clouded my own vision.

No doubt, this life can be difficult at times. Hardship, confusion, pain and doubt are inevitable. All of humanity, believers and atheists, experience suffering and aching, however, the ones who truly believe and call on Allah (swt) will be at ease. Despite any circumstances, they rest knowing The Lord of Heavens, Earth and everything in between is in charge. They trust His plan and allow their hearts to focus. They know they are not capable of everything; they are simply imperfect humans. Humans who dont allow this reality to cloud their visions. A human I strive to be." - Hana

Bushra, College Student, Texas

And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination. - Quran Chapter 31 / Verse 14



"No religion puts greater emphasis on the status of parents in society than that which Islam puts. We always hear that a 'mother knows best,' but sometimes in life we get carried away by our own faults, forgetting to turn to those who know us the most. I'm always terrified that a day will come in which I can no longer write my mother's name and number as my emergency contact, whether it be for school or any other endeavor of mine. This verse keeps me grounded; it reminds me that life is short, so short, too short, and that one should never, ever take the lives of one's parents for granted." - Bushra

Zarin, College Student, South Dakota

And a sign for them is the night. We remove from it [the light of] day, so they are [left] in darkness. And the sun runs [on course] toward its stopping point. That is the determination of the Exalted in Might, the Knowing. And (as for) the moon, We have ordained for it stages till it becomes again as an old dry palm branch. It is not allowable for the sun to reach the moon, nor does the night overtake the day, but each, in an orbit, is swimming. - Quran Chapter 36 / Verses 37-40



"The reason I love these verses so much is that they are almost a reiteration of the age-old saying, and my personal favorite calming mechanism, that Allah does everything for a reason. If we ever look up to the sky to ask why the sun acts the way it does and why the moon acts the way it does, we can see that He has created a relationship between the two celestial bodies so that they work in harmony and makes sure that neither overpowers the other. It is also a beautiful image and representation and model of how we as humans should work, in harmony, never overtaking each other to benefit and 'over show' our power, but to work together and cooperate in peace as well as we can." - Zarin

Samah Safi Bayazid, Filmmaker, Washington, D.C.

Have you not considered how Allah sets forth a parable of a good word (being) like a good tree, whose root is firm and whose branches are in heaven. - Quran Chapter 14 / Verse 24



"This is one of my favorite verses in the Holy Quran. It really touches my heart, so I can relate to it in my life. 'Good word' and 'good work' is what I try to spread through my social media, where Im very blessed and honored to have over 200,000 followers. As a filmmaker, some of our works like the American drama series 'Inspiration' got millions of views and cleared many misconceptions about Islam and American Muslims. Many people tell me that my words/works have inspired them and touched their hearts and lives. This always makes me think about the power of sincere words and actions, and how words can really be like 'a good tree whose roots are firm and whose branches are in heaven.' I hope that some of my words and works can become like a good tree in my lifetime and after I leave this world too." - Samah

Yousef, High School Student, Chicago

Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was intended. Whoever migrates with an intention for Allah and His messenger, the migration will be for the sake of Allah and His messenger. And whoever migrates for the worldly gain or to marry a woman, then his migration will be for the sake of whatever he migrated for. - Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)



"This hadith has had a great impact in my life. When I was a little younger, I loved to give charity to others in front of people. I wanted to be seen in the public eye as a good kid; it mattered what people thought of me. Little did I know I was only looking to gain the pleasure of the people around me and not the pleasure of Allah. I was not thinking whether or not what I was doing made Allah be pleased with me. Then one day I heard this hadith and I knew I had to change the way I did things and my intentions toward doing them. I realized that the way I thought was wrong and that if I wanted to do a good deed, I needed to do it for the sake of Allah only. I understood that only through the pleasure and love of Allah I could gain the love of the people." - Yousef

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
As Trumps former White House spokesman, Spicer bolstered the reputation and agenda of a monster. How can we now applaud him on stage?

Spicer was not an unwitting and unwilling participant in the Trump administration. Photograph: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Just 58 days. Thats all the time it took for Sean Spicer to return to public life, rolling on to a nationally watched stage, being literally applauded. Apparently it doesnt take much to wash off the stink of the Trump administration  just an Emmy invite and a few celebrity smooches.

As Spicer did a bit at the Emmys on Sunday night  joking about the size of the audience using the same language he did months earlier, as he hectored the press over Trumps inauguration crowd  celebrities and television industry folks laughed and applauded. As if this all was the funniest and cleverest turn of events yet. As if Spicers lies from the press secretary lectern were hilarious instead of terrifying.

As if this all was a show.

Are we really so easily distracted? So desperate for a reprieve from the awfulness that we will pretend as if this person didnt bolster the reputation and agenda of a monster? Shame on us.

Spicer was not an unwitting and unwilling participant in the Trump administration; for six months, he was its face. He lied to the American people again and again, pushing the dangerous notion that citizens could not trust the press. He normalized deception.

Spicer claimed that Adolf Hitler did not use chemical weapons, despite the fact that Hitler killed millions of Jewish people by gassing them, and then referred to Holocaust centers in his apology.

When the president was taken to task for issuing a statement to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day with no mention of Jewish people or antisemitism, Spicer called critics pathetic and applauded the president for going out of his way to recognize the Holocaust.

This is a man who blamed the press for the characterization of Trumps travel directive as a Muslim ban or travel ban despite the word being the presidents own. A man who, when called out for his lying, said sometimes we can disagree with facts.

Story continues

It does not surprise me that Spicer would seek to redeem himself. A lot of us knew it was coming. In May, cultural commentator and videoblogger Jay Smooth predicted this redemption tour. He said when that day comes, though, no credit, no props, no pats on the back should be given  for choosing to be complicit in this regime and then coming back around to cash in  after the harm is done. That we could not forget what Spicer and people like him  people who worked for a dangerous bigot  did to our country.

After Spicers quick bit on the Emmys stage, some people posed for pictures with the former press secretary backstage and at parties  as if he were a celebrity. One source told CNN that Spicer was mobbed by Emmys attendees both at the awards show and at the parties afterwards.

He could barely eat at the Governors Ball, he was so popular, they said.

Of course the people who populate Emmys parties are not likely to be worried about being deported. Or having their health insurance taken away. Perhaps all of this is funny to them because they dont have to think about Spicers role in the administration as anything other than a brief career gaffe that will have no lasting impact on their own lives.

It must be nice to have the privilege of all of this just being one big joke.

For the rest of us, its our lives. Its not funny, its not cute, and its not nearly time enough passed or apologies given to consider giving Spicer respite from his shame.

Im sure this wont be last we see of Spicer. Well watch as he goes on a speaking tour, writes a book, perhaps, and pretends that his time in the Trump administration didnt sully him for life. That we cant control. What we can do, however, is not show up and clap for him as he makes fools of us all once again.
Iraqi Kurdish President Masoud Barzani salutes the crowd while attending a rally to show their support for the upcoming September 25th independence referendu - REUTERS

Sir Michael Fallon, defence secretary, is meeting on Monday with the president of Iraqi Kurdistan in a last-ditch attempt to persuade him to call off his planned referendum on independence.

During a surprise visit to Iraq Sir Michael renewed Britains rejection of the vote, which it sees as a distraction from the war on Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) militants who continue to occupy parts of Iraq and Syria.

"We are committed to the integrity of Iraq. We are working with the UN on alternatives to this referendum," he said as he arrived in Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan.

Iraqi Kurds fly Kurdish flags during an event to urge people to vote in the upcoming independence referendum in Arbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq, on September 16, 2017. / Credit: AFP

Masoud Barzani was last week presented with an alternative to the September 25 vote by delegates from the UK, US and UN.

In it they offered to sponsor talks with Baghdad over territorial disputes, as well as disagreements over the distribution of oil revenues from the region.

However, it is thought it fell short of Mr Barzanis demands.

The president spent the weekend addressing large rallies across the Kurdish region to reassure supporters the controversial referendum would go ahead as planned.

Iraq's supreme court stepped in on Monday ordering the suspension of the referendum while it examines whether the plebiscite would be constitutional.

Britain's Defence Secretary Michael Fallon holds a press conference in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on September 18, 2017 Credit: AFP

Baghdad is also angered among the inclusion of Kirkuk in the vote, a contested oil-rich city which lies between Iraq and Kurdistan.

Haider al-Abadi, iraqs prime minister, said that Iraq is prepared to intervene militarily if the Kurdish region's referendum results in violence.

While Britain and the US are allies of the Kurds in their joint fight against Isil, they have been torn by their support for other influential friends in the region.

Kurdistans neighbours have also reacted with fury at the vote, with tensions rising further on Monday.

Turkey, which harbours fears of Kurdish separatism on its own territory, carried out military exercises at the Iraqi border. In a clear show of force, dozens of tanks were massed on its southern frontier.

Story continues

Meanwhile Iran, home to some seven million Kurds, warned of a border blockade and military action if Iraqi Kurds went ahead with their plans.

Kurds, the largest stateless ethnic group in the world, have held decades-long ambition for indepence.

In Iraq they were brutally oppressed under Saddam Hussein, whose military in the 1980s killed at least 50,000 of them, many with chemical weapons. Iraq's Kurds established a regional government in 1992 after the US enforced a no-fly zone across the north following the Gulf War.

After the 2003 US-led invasion ousted Saddam, the region secured constitutional recognition of its autonomy, but remained part of the Iraqi state.

Iraqs some six million Kurds are expected to vote yes next Monday. While the vote is non-binding, Mr Barzani hopes to use it as leverage against Baghdad.
Snap has bowed to pressure from the government of Saudi Arabia to censor a news channel operated by the Qatar-based news broadcaster, Al Jazeera, from the Snapchat Discover section of its app. The development was reported earlier by the WSJ.

Al Jazeera launched a Snap Discover channel in English in December 2015 -- but only launched its Arabia news channel in May this year.

A spokesperson for Snap provided TechCrunch with the following statement explaining the decision: "We make an effort to comply with local laws in the countries where we operate."

We understand that Saudi Arabias Communications and Information Technology Commission, acting on behalf of the Ministry Of Culture and Information, informed Snap that Al Jazeeras Discover Publisher Channel was in violation of Article 9 of the Saudi law of Printed Material and Publication, and Article 6 of the Saudi Anti-Cyber Crime Law.

Article 9 of the Saudi law of Printed Material and Publication includes a series of censured clauses pertaining to media -- including not inciting feuds and spreading dissent among citizens, and not jeopardizing the country's security or serving foreign interests in conflict with national interest; while Article 6 of the Anti-Cyber Crime Law censures the: "production, preparation, transmission, or storage of material impinging on public order, religious values, public morals, and privacy, through the information network or computers."

So, tl;dr, the law enshrines a regime of total state-control of media. Reporters Without Borders ranks Saudi Arabia as 168th in the World Press Freedom Index, noting in a summary of the country that: "Saudi Arabia has no independent media, the authorities tolerate neither political parties, unions, nor human rights groups, and the level of self-censorship is extremely high. The Internet is the only space where freely-reported information and views can circulate, albeit at great risk to its citizen journalists. "

Story continues

Al Jazeera has long been accused by the Saudis of being a tool for Qatar to stoke opposition to regional governments. And the broadcaster has certainly courted controversy.

This summer a group of Saudi-led Middle Eastern nations also broke off diplomatic ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting and sheltering Islamist groups -- an accusation it denies.

The wider political context here is a regional power struggle, with Saudi and its Gulf allies seeking to maintain the political status quo and viewing Qatari as a destabilizing risk.

At the time of writing Al Jazeera had not responded to a request for comment but, in a statement to the WSJ, a spokesperson for the broadcaster couched Snap's decision to close its channel in Saudi Arabia as an attempt to silence freedom of expression.

"The fundamental question that Al Jazeera is asking is, how could a U.S. company which is publicly traded, and which stands for freedom of speech where access to social media is a constitutional right, deny these rights to others? the spokesperson added.

Update: The broadcaster's parent company, Al Jazeera Media Network, has now released a statement. Dr Mostefa Souag, acting director general of the organization, said: We find Snapchats action to be alarming and worrying. This sends a message that regimes and countries can silence any voice or platform they dont agree with by exerting pressure on the owners of social media platforms and content distribution companies. This step is a clear attack on the rights of journalists and media professionals to report and cover stories freely from around the world.

We at Al Jazeera, object to any form of censorship and restrictions to freedom of the media and the right to access information. We call on Snap Inc. and other global media organisations to reject demands of oppressive regimes to silence journalists. We would like to remind Snap Inc. that this decision violates the US constitution, American laws, and values of democracy. By blocking Al Jazeeras Discover Channel, our followers in Saudi Arabia are denied the ability to follow our broad range of stories and coverage.

We understand Al Jazeera's Snap content has not been removed from Snap's apps in other countries in the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Algeria, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Yemen, Tunisia, and Oman.

Its content is also still available via Snap in Al Jazeera's home territory of Qatar.

Snap launched the Discover feature in January 2015, introducing a new section to Snapchat where users could consume content created by broadcasters, publishers, music labels, artists and so on -- packaged up in the Snap Stories form. The app is especially popular with youth demographics.
Los Angeles (AFP) - Television's biggest stars were dusting off their designer frocks and getting suited and booted Sunday for their chance to snag the biggest prizes for the small screen.

With awards juggernaut "Downton Abbey" finished and "Game of Thrones" ineligible, this year's Emmys are seen as the first in years in which any show could take home the most prestigious statuettes.

There will be fierce competition among a host of acclaimed first-timers, including HBO sci-fi Western show "Westworld," Hulu's dystopian "The Handmaid's Tale" and Netflix's 1980s-set horror series "Stranger Things."

The three series already have a huge 13 statuettes between them from last weekend's Creative Arts Emmys, which recognize behind-the-scenes talent as well as guest acting appearances.

"What's probably going to come out is that the awards will be spread across everybody. I think everyone's going to be happy," Debra Birnbaum, executive editor of television for Variety magazine, told AFP.

The glitzy ceremony in downtown Los Angeles -- the first under the administration of President Donald Trump -- is expected to have a distinctly political flavor, with host Stephen Colbert likely not to pull his punches.

NBC's long-running comedy sketch show "Saturday Night Live" received 22 nominations -- the joint-highest total alongside "Westworld" -- after a year of mercilessly spoofing the new commander-in-chief.

Its haul of five Creative Arts statuettes included outstanding guest actress in a comedy series for Melissa McCarthy, whose "Unhinged Spicey" take on embattled White House press secretary Sean Spicer came to embody early criticism of the administration.

The show is in the running for five more gongs at the main ceremony, with Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon nominated for their turns as Trump and campaign rival Hillary Clinton.

Story continues

HBO's fantasy epic about noble families vying for control of the Iron Throne raked in a record-breaking 12 awards last year, but is ineligible for the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards, having started its seventh season too late.

- 'Good writing' -

The outstanding drama category includes five debutants -- "Westworld," "The Handmaid's Tale," NBC's family drama "This Is Us," and two Netflix shows, "Stranger Things" and British royal drama "The Crown."

Birnbaum said that with such an open field this year almost no award would surprise her.

"The only thing I think is a sure thing would be Elisabeth Moss for 'The Handmaid's Tale.' I think she's beloved in the academy,'" she said.

"Veep" star Julia Louis-Dreyfus, vying for a sixth consecutive Emmy for best actress in a comedy, is the only other nominee who could be described as a shoo-in, according to Birnbaum.

"I like good writing, characters and relationships, and costume. I thought that 'The Crown' was marvelously done. The writing was great and the exploration of that particular period was beautifully done," Tobin Bell, who is best known for playing the iconic Jigsaw Killer in the "Saw" franchise, told AFP.

The 75-year-old actor's four-decade career has seen him appear in some of the biggest shows in TV history, including "NYPD Blue," "ER," "The X Files," "The Sopranos," "The West Wing" and "24."

"I loved how 'The Crown' explored John Lithgow's character, Winston Churchill, of course, how they explored his insecurities," he added.

The 69th Primetime Emmy Awards will be beamed live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles by CBS and starts roughly at 5 pm (0000 GMT Monday).
Funnyman Stephen Colbert is under the spotlight again as he hosts the Emmy awards on Sunday night. Here is a look back at Mr Colberts career.

Since his time as a correspondent on satirical news program the Daily Show, the 53-year-old Mr Colbert has been a fixture in the realm of television that blends comedy and current events. He parlayed his role as a fake right-wing host into a coveted late night gig which he has used to savage Donald Trump.

The Daily Show has regularly launched wider comedy careers, and that was the case for Mr Colbert (his partner in a humorous debate feature called Even Stevphen, Steve Carrell, has also ascended to stardom).

After years of complementing then-host Jon Stewart on the Daily Show, Mr Colbert secured a lead role playing the blowhard conservative host of the Colbert Report. Channeling the rally-around-the-flag conservatism that helped define the Bush era and animated ratings juggernauts on Fox News, Mr Colberts parody created an enduring comedy persona.

He rarely slipped in his portrayal of a proudly patriotic (and self-obsessed) conservative, to the point that he was tapped to host the White House Correspondents dinner during the floundering presidency of Republican George W Bush - whom Mr Colbert promptly skewered in a now-legendary live broadcast.

After nearly a decade at the helm of the Colbert Report, Mr Colbert landed one of the most high-profile spots in television comedy by succeeding David Letterman as host of the Late Show on CBS.

No longer bound to the conservative caricature of the Colbert Report, Mr Colbert has become a ferocious critic of Mr Trump.

The biggest TV star of this year is undoubtedly Donald Trump. No one's close, Mr Colbert said in an interview with CBS.

Comedy and tragedy have both run through Mr Colberts life. His father and two brothers died in a plane crash when Mr Colbert was 10.

No stranger to the Emmy awards, the five-foot, eleven inch Mr Colbert has already collected nine. His show is nominated for another six this year.
Striking a pose  Trump make his United Nations debut President Donald Trump arrives at the United Nations, Monday, Sept. 18, 2017. (Photo: Richard Drew/AP)

President Donald Trump made his debut at the United Nations taking his complaints about the world body straight to the source.

In his first appearance as president, Trump on Monday addressed a U.S.-sponsored event on reforming the 193-member organization he has sharply criticized.

As a candidate for president, Trump labeled the U.N. as weak and incompetent, and not a friend of either the United States or Israel. But he has softened his tone since taking office, telling ambassadors from U.N. Security Council member countries at a White House meeting this year that the U.N. has tremendous potential.

Trump more recently has praised a pair of unanimous council votes to tighten sanctions on North Korea over its continued nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

Trumps big moment comes Tuesday, when he delivers his first address to a session of the U.N. General Assembly. The annual gathering of world leaders will open amid serious concerns about Trumps priorities, including his policy of America First, his support for the U.N. and a series of global crises. It will be the first time world leaders will be in the same room and able to take the measure of Trump. (AP)

_____

See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Twitter and Tumblr.
Baghdad (AFP) - Iraq's supreme court Monday ordered the suspension of a September 25 referendum on the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan, as legal and political pressure mounted on the Kurds to call off the vote.

With just a week left before polling, the court said it "has issued the order to suspend organising the referendum set for September 25... until it examines the complaints it has received over this plebiscite being unconstitutional".

Court spokesman Ayas al-Samouk told AFP it had "received several complaints", as a parliamentary source said at least eight lawmakers had called on the court to intervene on constitutional grounds.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office said it had also filed a complaint against the referendum in the oil-rich autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq on constitutional grounds.

There was no immediate reaction from Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani, who called the referendum and has so far resisted pressure from Baghdad and Iraq's neighbours Turkey and Iran, as well as from the United States and its Western allies, all of which oppose the poll.

A Kurdish delegation is expected on Tuesday for talks in Baghdad, while Abadi has left for New York to attend the UN General Assembly.

Britain's Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said he would try to persuade Barzani at a meeting later Monday in the Kurdish capital of Arbil.

"I will be this afternoon in Arbil to tell Massud Barzani that we do not support the Kurdish referendum," he said at a press conference in Baghdad.

"We are committed to the integrity of Iraq. We are working with the UN on alternatives to this referendum," he said before leaving for the northern city.

The United States and other Western nations are backing a UN-supported "alternative" plan for immediate negotiations on future relations in exchange for dropping the referendum.

Washington argues that the vote will weaken Arab-Kurdish joint military operations that have helped to send Islamic State jihadists into retreat in both Iraq and war-torn Syria.

Story continues

Israel is alone in openly supporting Kurdish independence.

- Referendum as leverage -

Barzani has said a "yes" vote would not trigger an immediate declaration of independence, but rather kick-start "serious discussions" with Baghdad.

He has mustered huge popular support for the vote, with the streets of Arbil festooned with red, white and green Kurdish flags and large crowds holding nightly rallies.

The non-Arab Kurds -- more than 25 million people spread across Iraq, Turkey, Iran and Syria -- have long sought a state of their own.

According to analysts, Barzani is using the referendum as leverage in his Kurdish Regional Government's (KRG) long-standing disputes with the federal authorities in Baghdad over territory and oil exports.

The KRG has already expanded the territory it effectively controls and its peshmerga security forces have seized areas outside its borders from IS.

Oil-rich Kirkuk province, disputed by Baghdad and Arbil, has voted to take part in the referendum in defiance of the federal authorities.

The government responded by sacking Kirkuk's Kurdish governor, who has refused to leave his post. Rumours are rife that rival communities are stockpiling arms.

Turkey, concerned that the referendum might stir separatist dreams among its own Kurds, has threatened Arbil with "a price" to pay if the vote goes ahead.

Turkey launched a military drill featuring tanks close to the Iraqi border on Monday, its army said.

The KRG's economy is heavily dependent on oil exports via a pipeline running through Turkey to the Mediterranean.

Iran, with a sizeable Kurdish minority of its own, warned Sunday that Iraqi Kurdish independence would mean an end to all border and security arrangements with the KRG.
Moscow (AFP) - Syrian government troops came closer Monday to encircling the Islamic State group in a pocket of Deir Ezzor city after crossing the adjacent Euphrates River, Moscow and a monitoring group said.

Russian-backed Syrian forces are trying to tighten the noose on jihadists still inside the city on the river's western bank.

The army has sealed off the city on three sides, but IS still controls eastern districts along the river, which both jihadists and civilians had used as an escape route.

On Monday, elite Syrian troops crossed the river, Russia's defence ministry said.

"Today, Syrian government forces, reinforced by a unit of the 4th Armoured Division and with the support of Russian aviation, crossed the Euphrates River in the Deir Ezzor region," a ministry statement said.

It said "shock troops" had already captured several villages on the river's eastern bank from IS and were pushing further east.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights told AFP that Syrian commandos and reconnaissance units had crossed the river using a floating bridge.

"This paves the way for completely besieging the city," said Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman.

The Euphrates slices diagonally across Deir Ezzor province, an oil-rich eastern region bordering Iraq.

Until Monday, Syrian troops had been fighting only west of the Euphrates, while the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces waged a rival offensive against IS east of the river.

The SDF has captured more than 500 square kilometres (190 square miles) in northeastern parts of the province, according to the US-led coalition which is providing air cover.

To prevent the two operations from clashing, the coalition, the SDF, Syria's government and Russia have agreed on a "de-confliction line" in northeast Syria.

That line runs from the neighbouring province of Raqa southeast along the Euphrates to Deir Ezzor.

Coalition spokesman Colonel Ryan Dillon declined to say whether the Syrian army crossing the river violated the de-confliction line.

Story continues

"The closer together the Syrian army and the SDF get, the more awareness is going to be required," Dillon said.

The arrangement was tested on Saturday after the US-led coalition and the SDF accused Russian warplanes of bombing SDF fighters east of the Euphrates, a claim Moscow denied.

General Joe Dunford, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said he spoke to his Russian counterpart General Valery Gerasimov on Sunday.

"We have been engaged at every level to re-establish de-confliction at the Euphrates river," he said.

Russian jets were pursuing IS fighters who had fled across the Euphrates when their jets struck close enough to injure nearby SDF troops, according to Dunford.

The skies over Syria have become increasingly congested as the six-year conflict drags on, with warplanes from the coalition, the government and Russia all carrying out strikes.

More than 330,000 people have been killed and millions displaced since Syria's conflict broke out in 2011.
Ta-Nehisi Coates has made a controversial case for why President Donald Trump might be a white supremacist.

Coates appeared on MSNBCs All In with Chris Hayes on Friday to discuss his latest article for The Atlantic, Donald Trump Is the First White President.

With George Bushs policies, I could make an argument for how they affect black people in a negative way. You know what I mean? But I wouldnt argue that hes a white supremacist. I wouldnt argue that Mitt Romney is a white supremacist, Coates said.

But for Trump, Coates argued, theres quite a bit of evidence to back up the charge.

I think if you own a business that attempts to keep black people from renting from you, Coates explained, if you are reported to say that you dont want black people counting your money; if you say  and not even reported, just come out and say  that someone cant judge your case because they are Mexican; if your response to the first black president is that they werent born in this country, despite all proof; if you say they werent smart enough to go to Harvard Law School, and demand to see their grades; if thats the essence of your entire political identity you might be a white supremacist, its just possible.

Watch Coates appearance in the video above.

Also on HuffPost

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

New Orleans March Against White Supremacy

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Tombru (Bangladesh) (AFP) - For three weeks Dil Mohammad and his family have been stranded on a thin sliver of land between Bangladesh and their native Myanmar with thousands of other Rohingya, after running for their lives when their village was torched.

More than 400,000 Rohingya Muslims have now arrived in southern Bangladesh seeking sanctuary from violence that the United Nations says likely amounts to ethnic cleansing.

But unlike those arriving now, thousands of Rohingya who fled in the early days of the crisis that erupted last month were initially blocked from entering Bangladesh.

Too afraid to go back to Myanmar, they set up camp in a small area of no man's land where they have been ever since, waiting for the world to force the country they consider home to take them back.

"We have no intention of going to Bangladesh. We want to go back to our native land," Mohammad told AFP in the camp, waving an arm towards the lush green hills that separate the two countries.

"Myanmar is my home, my family has been there for generations."

The 51-year-old rice farmer said 150 families from his village of Mae Di in Rakhine state were now living in the makeshift settlement after fleeing an attack by the Myanmar army and Rakhine Buddhists.

His adult son, who was shot as they fled, is being treated in Bangladesh.

But although the Rohingya are now being freely admitted to Bangladesh, Mohammad does not intend to join him.

He and the thousands of others living in the camp, which lies just a few hundred metres from a barbed wire fence that marks Myanmar territory, have regular food deliveries and access to clean water, medicines and even a rudimentary washing area.

- 'Humanitarian crisis' -

Much of that is down to Lieutenant Colonel Manzurul Hasan Khan, who as the local commander of Border Guard Bangladesh is responsible for policing the frontier with Myanmar.

He was one of the first in Bangladesh to become aware of the unfolding crisis when guards at the hilltop border post of Tombru heard gunshots and mortar fire coming from Myanmar in August.

Story continues

Khan's first instinct was a military one -- he tried to call his counterpart in Myanmar for a flag meeting, whereby military commanders meet on the border to try to resolve tensions.

Before he could get through, he saw that women and children were flooding over the hills of Myanmar into the valley below.

He and his officers rushed down to the area, where they corralled the panicked crowd into a meadow, sat them down in the shade to explain that they could not come in and tried to establish what was going on.

Later that day, the Rohingya women and children went back over the hill of their own accord, Khan said.

But the next morning the firing resumed and they returned, this time in greater numbers.

"At that point I knew it was a humanitarian crisis," said Khan.

One woman gave birth in no man's land; another held up her seven-day-old baby and begged for Khan's help. So he decided to give it.

He allowed the sickest ones into Bangladesh and ensured those that stayed were given food and clean water.

In the days that followed, he would witness the devastating effects of the unfolding crisis in Myanmar at first hand as more and more people arrived, most from villages near the border.

One woman arrived with her leg blown off, apparently in a landmine explosion on the Myanmar side.

Aid groups and Bangladesh government officials say Myanmar has mined the border to deter fleeing members of the Rohingya community from returning.

- 'Hand of help' -

Myanmar does not recognise the Muslim minority as its citizens, and they have endured decades of persecution.

The situation has deteriorated dramatically since Rohingya militants ambushed security forces in Myanmar last month, and Amnesty International says there have been "systematic" clearances of Muslim settlements.

When AFP visited the Rohingya in Tombru this week, Myanmar soldiers could be seen patrolling on the edge of no man's land, near where another group of Rohingya had apparently settled.

Khan, who served in war zones in Africa and is no stranger to conflict, says the situation is the worst he has ever seen.

He is proud that his country is helping the Rohingya -- and happy to have played his own role.

"These people may stay for a long time. Bangladeshi is a poor country," he said. "But we have offered the hand of help, and that makes me proud."

Khan admits that the Rohingya will not be able to stay in no man's land forever. He believes they will move into Bangladesh once the government completes its plan of building shelters for thousands of refugees.

But for many of the Rohingya here, that represents an unappealing future.

"I like it here," said Mohammad Arif, 42.

"I can look across to the hills and feel the breeze from my country, and that makes me feel good."
New York (AFP) - US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met his Russian counterpart Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in New York on Sunday ahead of the UN General Assembly, officials said.

After the meeting, at the Russian delegation to the UN, Tillerson left without saying anything to the reporters, who were initially invited in to cover the opening of the talks but asked to leave before the US official arrived.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told a reporter that "the meeting was on cooperation in Syria crisis Middle East issues and Minsk agreement," but when asked how it went said she had not been in the room.

Tillerson and Lavrov "met this evening in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly," department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

"The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward," she said.

Ties between Washington and Moscow are at what Tillerson has called a "historic" post-Cold War low, amid tit-for-tat cuts to each other's diplomatic missions.

But Washington wants to work with Russia to help resolve the crisis in Syria, where both have military forces deployed, and the rivals are trying to work through their differences.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin will not attend the UN General Assembly this week, but his US counterpart Donald Trump will make his much anticipated first address to the world body on Tuesday.
President Trump will make his first appearance at the United Nations this week, delivering a speech and meeting with members of a body that he criticized during his campaign.

As a proponent of an America First approach to international relations, Trump will be closely watched by U.S. allies and adversaries during his address before the General Assembly on Tuesday, and U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley said last week that people should expect tough talk.

I personally think he slaps the right people, he hugs the right people, and he comes out with [the] U.S. being very strong, in the end, she said.

Ahead of Trumps address, heres a look back at what hes said about the United Nations in the past.

Hes a very big fan of the U.N.

Before he launched his political career, Trump testified in 2005 before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs subcommittee to discuss the cost of renovating the U.N. headquarters in New York.

At the time, he said he was a big fan of the United Nations and said he had the Trump World Tower luxury apartment building constructed across the street from the U.N. because he liked it so much.

Im a big fan, a very big fan of the United Nations and all it stands for, he said. I cant speak as to whats been happening over the last number of years because it certainly hasnt been good, but the concept of the United Nations and the fact that the United Nations is in New York is very important to me and very important to the world, as far as I am concerned.

The U.N.s marble tiles look cheap

In 2012, Trump took to Twitter to criticize an architectural detail of the United Nations interior, saying the 12-inch marble tiles look cheap and that he would replace them with larger marble slabs.

The cheap 12 inch sq. marble tiles behind speaker at UN always bothered me. I will replace with beautiful large marble slabs if they ask me.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 3, 2012

The U.N. is not a friend of democracy

During the 2016 presidential election, Trump spoke before the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, arguing that the U.N. is not a friend of democracy. The comments came during the part of Trumps speech that discussed the deal the Obama Administration made with Iran over its nuclear program. He shunned the U.N. at the time for utter weakness and incompetence.

Story continues

The United Nations is not a friend of democracy, its not a friend to freedom, its not a friend even to the United States of America where, as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel  So with the president in his final year, discussions have been swirling about an attempt to bring a Security Council resolution on terms of an eventual agreement between Israel and Palestine. Let me be clear: An agreement imposed by the United Nations would be a total and complete disaster. The United States must oppose this resolution and use the power of our veto, which I will use as president 100 percent.

The U.N. isnt doing anything to end the big conflicts

After securing the Republican nomination in May of 2016, Trump discussed what a White House would look like under his administration in an interview with the New York Times. When talking about certain Cabinet positions, he had this to say about his future U.N. ambassador:

I think about a U.N. ambassador, about a secretary of defense and secretary of treasury, but I think more about winning first, Mr. Trump said. Otherwise Im wasting time. I want people in those jobs who care about winning. The U.N. isnt doing anything to end the big conflicts in the world, so you need an ambassador who would win by really shaking up the U.N.

The U.N. is just a club for people to talk and have a good time

As president-elect, Trump promised in December of 2016 to shake up the U.N. saying  things will be different after Jan. 20th in a Dec. 23 tweet. His criticisms took on a harsher tone after the Obama Administration abstained from a U.N. Security Council vote on a resolution that condemned Israeli settlements in the West Bank. On Dec. 26, Trump said the body has such great potential but right now it is just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. So sad!

The United Nations has such great potential but right now it is just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. So sad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 26, 2016

Later that week, when asked by a reporter whether or not he wanted the U.S. to leave the U.N., Trump accused the institution of causing problems rather than solving them.

When do you see the United Nations solving problems? They dont. They cause problems, he said. So, if it lives up to the potential, its a great thing. And if it doesnt, its a waste of time and money.

In early January, then President-elect Trump spoke to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and had what was described as a very positive discussion. According to U.N. spokesman Farhan Haq, the secretary-general said that he looked forward to engaging with the president after his inauguration.

The U.N. hasnt lived up to the potential

As president, Trump hosted a working lunch at the White House with U.N. Security Council Ambassadors on April 24. At that lunch, he had more positive things to say about the institution, though he maintained his belief that it was not meeting its full potential.

I think that the United Nations has tremendous potential  tremendous potential  far greater than what I would say any other candidate in the last 30 years would have even thought to say. I dont think its lived up  I know it hasnt lived up to the potential. I mean, I see a day when theres a conflict where the United Nations, you get together, and you solve the conflict. You just dont see the United Nations, like, solving conflicts. I think thats going to start happening now. I can see it. And the United Nations will get together and solve conflicts. It wont be two countries, it will be the United Nations mediating or arbitrating with those countries.
Trump lawyers John Dowd and Ty Cobb (Photo: @KenVogel/NYT/Twitter)

Two of President Trumps lawyers were overheard by a New York Times reporter loudly discussing the Russia investigation last week at a Washington, D.C., steakhouse that is located next to the newspapers D.C. bureau. The conversation led to a front-page story published Monday.

The reporter, Kenneth Vogel, was meeting a source for lunch at BLT Steak in downtown Washington. They were seated outside in the restaurants sidewalk seating area. At a nearby table, Trump lawyers Ty Cobb and John Dowd were talking about the White Houses handling of the ongoing federal probe into the Trump campaigns possible ties to Moscow.

Cobb was easy to recognize with that trademark bushy handlebar mustache, Vogel told CNN in an interview on Monday. My source gets up to leave. I say, You know what, Im just going to hang out here.

NYT's @kenvogel on Trump's lawyers discussing Russia probe in public: "It's puzzling they would be so indiscreet" https://t.co/4OCndGWV9l  CNN Newsroom (@CNNnewsroom) September 18, 2017

As Vogel sat there alone, taking notes on his iPhone, Cobb and Dowd continued to discuss the case in a way that was easily audible to adjacent tables and passersby.

According to Vogel, Cobb was complaining that White House lawyer Donald F. McGahn II has not been forthcoming with information requested by the special counsel in charge of the investigation, suggesting McGahn had a couple documents locked in a safe and that there is a McGahn spy within the Trump legal team.

Its puzzling they would be so indiscreet, Vogel said.

The conversation led to Mondays story about the tension within Trumps legal team. Vogel tweeted a photo of Cobb and Dowd at the steakhouse along with a link to the piece.

Here's a photo of Ty Cobb & John Dowd casually & loudly discussing details of Russia investigation at @BLTSteakDC while I sat at next table. pic.twitter.com/RfX9JLJ0Te  Kenneth P. Vogel (@kenvogel) September 18, 2017

According to the Times, when the paper approached the White House about Cobb and Dowds open-air comments, McGahn privately erupted at Cobb and White House chief of staff John Kelly sharply reprimanded him.

Story continues

Cobb did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Earlier this month, Cobb engaged in a lengthy email exchange with the owner of a popular Washington ramen restaurant. In it, Cobb defended his decision to join the Trump legal team and appeared to refer to himself and Kelly as the only adults in the room.

Cobb also exchanged emails with a prankster who was posing as White House social media director Dan Scavino.

Read more from Yahoo News:
According to a new report, Trump allies have already set in motion plans to tarnish potential 2020 Democratic candidates.

From Democratic Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand and Cory Booker to celebrity names like "The Rock" and Mark Cuban, there has been talk of Trump's team eyeing possible 2020 opponents for months, and the new POLITICO details reveal a super PAC has dedicated funds to tarnishing one candidate in particular.

RELATED: People who might run against Trump in 2020



One super PAC, Massachusetts First, has been running radio ads since June slamming Warren as a "hypocrite professor" for taking a high salary during her Harvard tenure. Hedge fund billionaire Robert Mercer -- whose political operation is tied to that of Trump -- gave a reported $150,000 since the ads have been running.

"It hasnt been difficult so far, as Democrats angling for 2020 are tripping over themselves to see who can spout the most extreme far-left positions and who can be the biggest obstructionist," RNC research director Mike Reed told POLITICO of the in-motion plans to go after Democrats.

Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) is also being targeted by operatives looking to potential unseat him in the 2018 midterm elections before he even has the chance to posture a bid in 2020.

SEE ALSO: Parents of Georgia Tech student killed by police speak out

President Trump himself looked ahead to re-election in 2020 during NRA forum remarks in April, pondering who his Democratic opponent might be.

The commander in chief focused his rhetoric on a future re-election bid come 2020 -- warning his conservative base that the Democratic candidate he runs against might be Warren.

"It may be Pocahontas," Trump said at the time. "And she is not big for the NRA."
ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi this week to discuss their concerns about an independence referendum in Iraq's Kurdish region. Turkey, the United States and other Western powers have advised authorities in the semi-autonomous region to cancel the vote, worrying that tensions it would generate might act as an unwelcome distraction from the war on Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. With the largest Kurdish population in the region, Turkey also fears that a "Yes" vote would fuel separatism in its southeast, where militants of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) have waged an insurgency for three decades. Kurdish leader Massoud Barzani said on Friday the referendum would go ahead as planned on Sept. 25. Speaking to reporters on Sunday before departing for New York to attend the U.N. General Assembly, Erdogan said Ankara and Baghdad had the same view regarding the referendum. "We will have a meeting with Mr Abadi in the United States, and from what we can see our goal is the same. Our goal is not dividing Iraq," said Erdogan, who earlier said that Barzani's decision to not postpone the vote was "very wrong". Late on Saturday Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said the referendum was an issue of national security and Turkey would take any necessary steps in response. In Istanbul, close to a thousand people gathered to protest the inclusion of Kirkuk in the referendum, at an event organized by the nationalist opposition MHP party. Kirkuk, an oil-rich province claimed by authorities in both Baghdad and the Kurdish region, was included after its governor, Najmaddin Kareem, voted in favor of taking part. Iraq's parliament voted on Thursday to remove the governor from office following a request from Abadi, according to several lawmakers present, a move Barzani condemned. Last month, MHP leader Devlet Bahceli said the referendum should be viewed by Ankara as a reason for war "if necessary", but the prime minister dismissed the comments. Bahceli's ideas reflect those of a segment of Turkish society fiercely opposed to the idea of an independent Kurdistan and supportive of Iraq's Turkmen ethnic minority, which has historical and cultural ties to Turkey. With Barzani pressing on with the referendum, Erdogan said the Turkish government had brought forward planned national security council and cabinet meetings to Sept. 22 and that Turkey would announce its position on the referendum afterwards. Turkey has, however, built good relations with Barzani's administration, founded on strong economic links and shared suspicions of other Kurdish groups and Iraq's central government. The Kurdish Regional Government, led by Barzani's KDP party, exports hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil every day to world markets via Turkey. Iraqi President Fuad Masum on Sunday called on the country's leading politicians to start urgent dialogue to defuse tensions linked to the referendum plans. Masum, a Kurd, holds a largely ceremonial position under the Iraqi federal power-sharing regime, which concentrates executive powers in the hands of the prime minister, a Shi'ite. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu and Omer Berberoglu; Editing by David Goodman and John Stonestreet)
Ankara (AFP) - Turkey launched a military drill with tanks close to the Iraqi border on Monday, the army said, a week before Iraq's Kurdish region is set to hold an independence referendum.

Despite opposition from Turkey, Iran and the United States, the Kurdistan Regional Government's leaders have said they will hold the non-binding independence vote on September 25.

Ankara has previously warned against the poll, saying it could risk "civil war" and will "have a cost" if it goes ahead.

Despite forging strong ties with the KRG in northern Iraq in recent years, Turkey fears the vote could stoke separatist aspirations among its own sizeable Kurdish minority.

Ankara's national security council will meet on September 22 to discuss the country's official position on the referendum, but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday said it was a "mistake".

He was speaking before leaving for the United Nations General Assembly, where he is expected to meet Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi -- whose Baghdad government is also fiercely against the KRG's move.

Turkish presidency sources said Abadi and Erdogan agreed during a phone call on Monday that the KRG's "insistence would increase tensions in the region".

And they emphasised the need to protect Iraq's territorial integrity, the sources said.

Jan Kubis, the top UN envoy in Iraq, last week offered international backing for immediate negotiations between the country's federal government and the autonomous region in a bid to get Iraqi Kurdish leader Massud Barzani to drop the plans.

The Turkish military exercise began in the Silopi-Habur region in the country's south, close to northern Iraq, the armed forces said.

"Simultaneously with this exercise, counter-terrorism operations in the border region continue," a statement added.

Witnesses in the region said they saw around 100 military vehicles deployed, including tanks, in the early hours of Monday, an AFP correspondent said.
By Tuvan Gumrukcu and Maher Chmaytelli ANKARA/BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Turkish tanks carried out drills at the Iraqi border on Monday, the army said, a week before a referendum across that frontier on Kurdish independence that Ankara has called a threat to its national security. The exercises came as Turkey, the central government in Baghdad and their shared neighbor Iran all stepped up protests and warnings about the looming plebiscite in semi-autonomous Kurdish northern Iraq. Iran, which like Turkey fears fuelling separatism in its own Kurdish population, warned of unspecified consequences if the vote went ahead. Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said any threats from inside or outside its territory would face immediate retaliation. The military command released pictures of the tanks speeding along roads and kicking up dust during exercises. Iraq's Supreme Federal Court ordered Kurdistan region to suspend the vote, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office said. Baghdad, its neighbors and Western powers fear the referendum could distract attention from the fight against Islamic State militants across the region. But the Kurdish leadership showed no sign of bowing to pressure to call off the vote, including from the United Nations - which urged Erbil to resolve disputes with Baghdad over land and power sharing through dialogue. TANKS, MISSILES In Turkey, around 100 military vehicles, mostly tanks, took part in the drill near the Habur border gate, a crossing point into Iraq, the private news agency Dogan said. Vehicles carrying missiles and howitzers also participated. Turkish military sources said the drill was due to run until Sept. 26, a day after the planned Kurdish referendum. Turkey has not spelt out what response it might take if the referendum goes ahead. It has brought forward meetings of the cabinet and its national security council to Friday, three days ahead of the vote, to look again at the situation. Separately, Turkey's military said it carried out an air strike in northern Iraq on Monday and that "four terrorists were neutralized". Turkish forces often launch cross-border attacks they say target members of the outlawed Kurdish PKK group, which has waged an insurgency in southern Turkey for three decades. "Those who are chasing dreams in Syria and Iraq should know very well that any attempt that threatens our national security, from inside or outside our borders, will be immediately retaliated in kind," Prime Minister Yildirim said in a speech in the southern Turkish town of Sanliurfa. Kurdish forces have, with U.S. backing, been in the forefront of the battle against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. The Kurdish involvement in Syria strains relations between Washington and Ankara. The Iraqi Supreme Federal Court approved Prime Minister Abadi's demand to consider "the breakaway of any region or province from Iraq as unconstitutional", his office said in a statement. The court is responsible for settling disputes between Iraq's central government and regions including Kurdistan, but has no means to implement its rulings in the Kurdish region which has its own police and government, led by Massoud Barzani. Iran issued a veiled warning to the Kurds that their security could be affected if Iraq's unity was threatened. "Any damage to this strategic principle would lead to the revision of and serious alteration in the existing cooperation between Iran and Iraqs Kurdistan region," said Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, according to state-run Press TV. Turkey's protests in the build-up to the vote had been relatively muted. It has built good relations with Barzani's semi-autonomous Kurdish administration in northern Iraq, founded on strong economic links as well as Ankara and Erbil's shared suspicions of other Kurdish groups. The Kurdish Regional Government, led by Barzani's KDP party,exports hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil per day to worldmarkets via Turkey and said on Monday that Russian oil major Rosneft would invest in pipelines in the Kurdish region to export gas to Turkey and Europe. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara, Maher Chmaytelli in Erbil; Editing by Dominic Evans and Andrew Heavens)
American tourists were reportedly sprayed with hydrochloric acid in the face Sunday morning at the Saint Charles station in Marseille, France.

La Provence reports four young Americans, who ABC News identified as female Boston College students, were targeted. Two of the them, ages 20 and 21, were hit in the face by the acid and taken to a hospital.

The 41-year-old attacker was arrested and detained by the police. A police source told Le Parisien that the perpetrator was a woman who may be thought to be psychologically disturbed. They said she was known to police for fighting.

The woman appeared to indicate that she had herself been the victim of acid violence when she was younger, showing photos of herself with burns, according to La Provence.

 Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter.

The police source also told Le Parisien that the incident was not a terrorist attack and that the victims were not targeted due to their nationality.

The four women, who are studying in Paris, were treated at Marseilles Hopital Timone and released late Sunday afternoon.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The head of the U.S. Department of the Interior called for changes to the management of 10 national monuments that would lift restrictions on activities such as logging and mining and shrink at least four of the sites, the Washington Post reported. U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke recommended that President Donald Trump reduce the boundaries of the monuments known as Utah's Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Nevadas Gold Butte and Oregons Cascade-Siskiyou. Zinke also called for relaxing current restrictions within some of the monuments' boundaries for activities such as grazing, logging, coal mining and commercial fishing, according to a copy of the memo that the Post obtained. The Grand Staircase-Escalante monument has areas that "contain an estimated several billion tons of coal and large oil deposits," Zinke's report said, suggesting that it could be opened to energy production if Trump makes a reduction in the footprint of the monument. The Trump administration has promoted "energy dominance," or plans to produce more coal, oil, and gas for domestic use and selling to allies. With Grand Staircase-Escalante being remote, and oil and coal being plentiful elsewhere, it is uncertain if energy interests would actually drill and mine there, if the monument's boundaries were changed. Trump has said previous administrations abused their right to create monuments under the Antiquities Act of 1906 by imposing limits on drilling, mining, logging, ranching and other activities in huge areas, mainly in western states. The monuments targeted in the memo were created by former presidents George W. Bush, a Republican, and Democrats Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. A designation as a national monument prohibits mining and sets stringent protections for ecosystems on the site. Interior Department spokeswoman Heather Swift referred questions about the memo to the White House. "The Trump Administration does not comment on leaked documents, especially internal drafts which are still under review by the President and relevant agencies," White House spokeswoman Kelly Love said in a statement to Reuters. NATURAL WONDERS In June, Zinke told reporters he had recommended shrinking the Bears Ears monument, the country's newest monument, and last month he sent his recommendations to the Republican president after reviewing more than two dozen national monuments. Trump ordered the review in April as part of his broader effort to increase development on federal lands. Energy, mining, ranching and timber industries have cheered the review, while conservation groups and the outdoor recreation industry threatened lawsuits over what they see as an effort to undo protections of critical natural and cultural resources. The Sierra Club, an environmental group, said Zinke had "sold out" public lands. "Leaving the protection of Native American sacred sites, outdoor recreation destinations, and natural wonders to the goodwill of polluting industries is a recipe for disaster," Sierra's head Michael Brune said. Senator Maria Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Senate energy committee, tweeted that former President Teddy Roosevelt, a conservationist, would "roll over in his grave" if he saw Zinke's "attacks" on public lands. Besides reducing the four sites, Zinke called for changes at Maines Katahdin Woods and Waters, New Mexicos Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte, two Pacific Ocean marine monuments and another marine one off the New England coast. Many fishing industry supporters cheered changes outlined in Zinke's memo. Jon Mitchell, the mayor of New Bedford, Massachusetts, a large fishing port, said the marine monument designation process "may have been well intended, but it has simply lacked a comparable level of industry input, scientific rigor and deliberation." While the antiquities law enables a president to permanently declare certain places of historic or scientific interest a national monument, a few U.S. presidents have reduced the size of some such areas. (Reporting by Susan Heavey, Valerie Volcovici and Timothy Gardner; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Marcy Nicholson)
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Jewish ultra-Orthodox demonstrators protesting the arrest of a prospective army conscript from their community clashed with police in Jerusalem on Sunday and eight men were detained, police said. Police used a water canon and mounted officers dispersed the protest that briefly turned violent near Jerusalem's military recruiting office which lies on the edge of one of the city's ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods. Although most ultra-Orthodox seminary students gain exemption from military service on religious grounds, they must obtain their exemption through a conscription procedure. Police said the protest was prompted by the man's arrest after he refused to turn up for recruitment. Last week Israel's Supreme Court ruled that parts of the conscription law that exempt seminary students were unconstitutional and gave the government a year to resolve the matter. Most Jewish Israelis, men and women, are called up for military service when they turn 18. Police spokeswoman Luba Samri said protesters blocked streets and threw stones at police officers. Video footage showed officers kicking, punching and pushing some demonstrators and a few were dragged across a street. (Writing by Ori Lewis; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
Baquer and Siamak Namazi (right). (Photo: Center for Human Rights in Iran)

WASHINGTON  A United Nations human rights group called on the Iranian government to release U.S. citizens Siamak and Baquer Namazi, describing their imprisonment as a violation of international law.

The U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention delivered its 11-page opinion to the Iranian government and the Namazis lawyer earlier this month. Jared Genser, a lawyer who is representing the Namazis, released it on Monday, ahead of the annual gathering of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week.

The working group, established in 1991, is an independent body with members appointed by the U.N. Human Rights Council. While it has little ability to compel countries to comply with its recommendations, the bodys findings on the Namazis case puts additional pressure on the Iranian government to negotiate the release of Siamak, 46, and his 80-year-old father.

Siamak, who worked at an oil and gas company in Dubai, was arrested in October 2015 when he came to Iran to visit family. Baquer, a former UNICEF official, was arrested the following February when he came to the country after being promised he would be allowed to see his son in Evin prison. They have each been sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of colluding with an enemy state  a reference to the United States. Neither Siamak nor Baquer had meaningful access to lawyers or the right to defend themselves in court, the working group wrote in its opinion.

The working group wrote that there is nothing to indicate that they ever acted against the national interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran, calling for the Namazis immediate release and a right to reparations.

Genser first appealed to the U.N. working group in April, arguing that Tehran is arbitrarily depriving Siamak and Baquer of their freedom and imprisoning them in conditions that amount to torture. The U.N. working group largely agreed with Gensers allegations, concluding that the Iranian government denied the father and son due process. Their detention, the group wrote in its opinion, appeared to be part of the Iranian governments emerging practice of locking up dual Iranian-American citizens. The working group expressed grave concern about the deteriorating health of both men.

Story continues

The timing of the release of the working groups opinion is deliberate. World leaders, including Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and President Donald Trump, will gather in New York this week for the U.N. General Assembly.

Genser and Babak Namazi, Siamaks brother and Baquers son, will be in New York to advocate on behalf of Siamak and Baquer. Genser is hoping Trump will call for their release during his speech and Babak has requested meetings with high-level U.S. officials while he is in New York.

Babak said he felt gratified by the U.N. opinion. This shows unequivocally what we have known all along: that they have done nothing wrong, he said in a statement. I urge the Government of Iran to release them immediately on humanitarian grounds.

Members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, which runs Evin prison, have beaten and tased Siamak, forcing him to watch government propaganda featuring images of him and his father, Genser told the U.N. group. Siamak has lost 26 pounds during a hunger strike in prison and his family worries he may be suicidal.

Baquer has also been held in harsh conditions, including solitary confinement, Genser said. The 80-year-old man has a heart condition that required him to undergo triple bypass surgery. Since being imprisoned, he has been hospitalized at least twice, but he has been denied access to his own doctor who treated his heart condition in the past.

The Obama administration tried and ultimately failed to include Siamak as part of a January 2016 prisoner swap with Iran. Baquer was arrested the following month. Since then, the Namazis advocates have been noticeably more outspoken about Siamak and Baquers plight, applying continuous public pressure on the Trump administration to prioritize their case.

The Trump administration has been sporadically vocal about its efforts to free the Namazis and other Americans imprisoned in Iran. When Iran announced a 10-year sentence for Chinese-born U.S. citizen Xiyue Wang in July, the White House responded with a public statement about a redoubling of efforts to bring home U.S. citizens. In its statement, the White House specifically mentioned Wang, the Namazis and Robert Levinson, a CIA consultant who has been missing in Iran since 2007.

The White House did not mention Karan Vafadari, an American citizen who was arrested last year, or Robin Shahini, an American who was released on bail earlier this year but still faces charges in Iran. Iran is also imprisoning at least two green-card holders: Nizar Zakka and Afarin Niasari, Vafadaris wife.

On Thursday, the State Department sent reporters a fact sheet about Wang, the Namazis and Levinson, an unusual move that an official there described as part of an effort to give journalists current information ahead of the U.N. General Assembly.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on whether Trump would use his first speech at the U.N. to press for the release of the Americans held in Iran.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Yangon (AFP) - Pressure grew on Myanmar Monday as a rights group urged world leaders to impose sanctions on its military, which is accused of driving out more than 410,000 Rohingya Muslims in an orchestrated "ethnic cleansing" campaign.

The call from Human Rights Watch came as the UN General Assembly prepared to convene in New York, with the crisis in Myanmar high on the agenda.

It also came on the eve of a highly-anticipated national address Tuesday by Myanmar's civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, her first on the crisis in Rakhine state.

The exodus of Rohingya refugees from mainly Buddhist Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh has sparked a humanitarian emergency. Aid groups are struggling to provide relief to a daily stream of new arrivals, more than half of whom are children.

The number also includes 70,000 pregnant or breastfeeding women, according to Bangladesh's information minister Hasanul Haq.

Myanmar has suggested it will not take back all who had fled across the border, accusing them of links to the Rohingya militants whose raids on police posts in August triggered the army backlash.

Any clear moves to block the refugees' return will likely anger Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina. She will use the General Assembly to press Myanmar to take back all the Rohingya massing in shanty towns and camps in Bangladesh near the border.

Human Rights Watch also called for the "safe and voluntary return" of the displaced as it urged governments around the globe to punish Myanmar's army with sanctions for the "ongoing atrocities" against the Rohingya.

"The United Nations Security Council and concerned countries should impose targeted sanctions and an arms embargo on the Burmese military to end its ethnic cleansing campaign against Rohingya Muslims," the group said in a statement.

Myanmar's military was hit with Western sanctions during its 50-year rule of the country. But most have been lifted in recent years as the generals have allowed a partial transition to democracy.

Story continues

"Burma's senior military commanders are more likely to heed the calls of the international community if they are suffering real economic consequences," said John Sifton, HRW's Asia advocacy director.

- Suu Kyi's 'last chance' -

Nobel peace laureate Suu Kyi has shocked the international community with her near-silence on the plight of the Rohingya and her failure to condemn the actions of the army, with whom she has a delicate power-sharing arrangement.

Speaking to the BBC over the weekend, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Suu Kyi had a "last chance" to stop the humanitarian calamity.

But analysts say it will be difficult for her to appease both global outrage and combustible religious tensions at home, where there is broad support among the mainly Buddhist population for the army's crackdown.

"I'm worried that there is almost no possibility given the political climate in Myanmar for balancing the expectations of most of the country and the expectations of the international community," Richard Horsey, an independent analyst based in Myanmar, told AFP.

- Duelling protests -

The sharp divide was on display Monday as protests broke out in Dhaka -- where 20,000 Islamist hardliners marched in solidarity with the Rohingya -- and in Yangon, where a group of 300 gathered to blast global interference in the conflict.

While the world has watched with horror, there is little sympathy for the Rohingya inside Myanmar.

Many Buddhists revile the Muslim minority and have long denied their existence as an ethnic group, insisting they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

Suu Kyi's government has so far defended the military campaign as a legitimate crackdown on the Rohingya militants, who first emerged as a fighting force last October.

On Sunday Myanmar's Information Committee accused those who fled to Bangladesh -- more than a third of the Rohingya population -- of working in cahoots with the Rohingya militants, a rag-tag group of fighters armed with mostly rudimentary weapons.

"Those who fled the villages made their way to the other country for fear of being arrested as they got involved in the violent attacks," the statement said.

"Legal protection will be given to the villages whose residents did not flee," it added.

The violence has gutted large swathes of northern Rakhine in just over three weeks, with fires visible almost daily across the border from the Bangladesh camps.

Some 30,000 ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Hindus have also been displaced by unrest in northern Rakhine, where foreign aid has been severely curtailed.

On Monday, Doctors Without Borders repeated calls for "unfettered access" to the conflict zone, saying hundreds of thousands of people are thought to be languishing "without any meaningful form of humanitarian assistance".
AP

The UN has run out of options for confronting an increasingly belligerent North Korea, US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has said, presenting a unified front with Trump administration officials who continue to float a military option ahead of this weeks summit in New York.

We have pretty much exhausted all the things that we can do at the Security Council at this point, Haley told CNN, adding that she had no problem kicking to Jim Mattis, the US defence secretary. I think he has plenty of options.

By claiming that the UN had failed to alter North Koreas militaristic course, Ms Haley hinted at the limits of diplomacy as the world prepares to gather next week for the first UN General Assembly of Donald Trumps presidency.

World leaders converging on New York will grapple with confronting North Koreas unrelenting threats and displays of military ability. Looming behind them will be the prospect of renewed warfare on the Korean peninsula, with Ms Haley alluding to an official  Mr Mattis  who recently stressed Americas ability to marshal and overwhelming and massive military response that could result in the total annihilation of North Korea.

After a two-week stretch in which a defiant North Korea has fired multiple missiles over Japan and likely detonated a hydrogen bomb, the country shows no signs of bending to world condemnation and sanctions clamping down on exports. North Korea has said it would press ahead with its nuclear program despite being hit with the second round of UN sanctions in as many months.

All along, the Trump administration has dangled the option of a military response. Mr Trump sent a cycle of escalating rhetoric whirring in August by warning North Korea that it would face fire and fury if it did not relent, a comment that Ms Haley said was not an empty threat.

If North Korea keeps on with this reckless behaviour, if the United States has to defend itself or defend its allies in any way, North Korea will be destroyed. And we all know that. And none of us want that. None of us want war, she said. We're trying every other possibility that we have, but theres a whole lot of military options on the table.

Story continues

Appearing on ABC televisions This Week, National Security Adviser HR McMaster reiterated that all options are on the table if North Korea does not abandon its nuclear weapons program.

We really have to move with a great deal of urgency, on sanctions, on diplomacy, and on preparing, if necessary, a military option, Mr McMaster said in a separate appearance on Fox News Sunday.

Earlier in the morning, Mr Trump took to Twitter to seemingly taunt North Korean leader Kim Jong-un  referring to him as Rocket Man  and suggest that sanctions were having an effect, writing that long gas lines are forming in North Korea.

I spoke with President Moon of South Korea last night. Asked him how Rocket Man is doing. Long gas lines forming in North Korea. Too bad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 17, 2017

The comment appears to be directed at Mr Kim, Mr McMaster said during his appearance on ABC.

That is where the rockets and missiles are coming from... North Korea, Mr McMaster said.

Both US allies and American territory have been in North Koreas crosshairs as the country has taken an increasingly antagonistic posture toward the rest of the world. The country said it was formulating plans to annihilate Guam, a Pacific island that hosts a significant US military presence, and has fired multiple missiles over Japan.

A North Korean government entity said last week that Japan should be sunken into the sea by the nuclear bomb of the regime and warned it would reduce the US mainland to ashes and darkness.

In a sign of broad global pressure, Kuwait moved to sever diplomatic ties with North Korea by ordering the nations ambassador to leave. That would essentially terminate North Koreas diplomatic presence in the Gulf region, where Kuwait had been the only country to maintain a North Korean diplomatic mission, according to Reuters.
The US flew four F-35B stealth fighter jets and two B-1B bombers over the Korean peninsula on Monday in a show of force after North Korea's latest nuclear and missile tests, South Korea's defence ministry said.

The flight was to "demonstrate the deterrence capability of the US-South Korea alliance against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats", the ministry said in a statement.

They were the first flights since the North conducted its sixth and most powerful nuclear test on September 3 and staged an intermediate-range missile test over Japan last Friday, sending regional tensions soaring.

The US jets flew alongside four South Korean F-15K jet fighters as part of "routine" training, the statement said, adding that the allies would continue such exercises to "improve their joint operation capabilities against contingencies".

The previous such flights were on August 31.

Separately, China and Russia began a joint naval exercise east of the Korean peninsula.

The drill will be held in waters between the Russian port of Vladivostok and the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, further north, the Chinese defence ministry said.

Chinese independent military analyst Wei Dongxu said it was mainly a submarine hunting exercise and not directly related to the situation on the Korean peninsula.

"However, it demonstrates a common determination to maintain regional stability and deter forces or countries from trying to move into the northeast Asia area," he said.

- 'Strongest possible measures' -

The UN Security Council last week imposed a fresh set of sanctions on North Korea over its missile and atomic weapons programmes, though Washington toned down its original proposals to secure support from China and Russia.

Moscow backs Beijing's proposal for a freeze on North Korea's nuclear and missile tests in exchange for a suspension of US-South Korea military drills, which China blames for fanning regional tensions.

Story continues

US ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has rejected the proposal as "insulting" and said that if Pyongyang should pose a serious threat to the US or its allies, "North Korea will be destroyed".

North Korea's weapons drive is set to dominate US President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly later Monday and his meetings with South Korean and Japanese leaders this week.

Tensions flared when Kim Jong-Un's regime tested what it termed a hydrogen bomb many times more powerful than its previous device.

The North also fired a ballistic missile over Japan and into the Pacific last Friday, responding to the new UN sanctions with what appeared to be its longest-ever missile flight.

Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-In spoke by phone Saturday and vowed to exert "stronger pressure" on the North, with Moon's office warning that further provocation would put it on a "path of collapse".

The US president has not ruled out a military option, which could leave millions of people in the South Korean capital -- and 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the South -- vulnerable to potential retaliatory attack.

Trump's National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster has said the US would "have to prepare all options" if sanctions prove insufficient to stop the North's weapons drive.
Police in California have gained worldwide attention for a parody photo of Stephen King's It posted by the department.

The Lincoln Police Department saw the fame gained by the hot cops in Gainesville, Fla., and decided to join in on the fun.

Read: 3-Year-Old Poses as Pennywise the Clown From Stephen King's 'It' in Chilling Photo Shoot

In a photo shared by Lincoln police, four officers are seen posed near a storm drain as one of the cops reaches down toward a line of donuts leading to the sewer, where Pennywise the dancing clown from the 1990 miniseries is waiting.

OK, Gainesville had the "hot cops" and Loudon had the "cop on a bucket" so the Lincoln (CA) Police Department decided to join the fun, the department wrote on Facebook. Clown  Hey guys, I have donuts down here!

The photo has been shared more than 162,000 times since the department posted it on Friday.

We saw the hot cops in Florida and that went viral. We saw it as an opportunity to engage with community in lighthearted way, Chief of Police Doug Lee told InsideEdition.com. We just wanted to do something funny that would show the personal side of cops.

The clown pictured in the photo was Photoshopped in by a volunteer, but Lee said the donuts were real.

Read: The Kids Are All Fright: Youngest Stars of 'It' Dish on 'Traumatizing' Film

Commenters on the post laughed at the departments sense of humor.

So they're hot, have an AMAZING sense of humor AND they eat donuts!!?? SWEEEEEET!! Where can I get one? one woman wrote.

Watch: How This Couple's Hot Air Balloon Proposal Went Terribly Wrong

Related Articles:
The recent news that Robert Mueller obtained a search warrant for the contents of Facebook accounts associated with Russian operatives trying to undermine the 2016 presidential election was a key turning point in our knowledge of his investigation that could transform the scope of the inquiry and the legal strategy of the people in the special counsel's sights.

Before news of the Facebook search warrant broke, it appeared that Mueller was focused on several discrete areas of inquiry, such as potentially false disclosures by former Trump campaign chair Paul Manafort, potential tax charges and alleged obstruction of justice related to President Donald Trump's firing of former FBI Director James Comey.

These areas fit with my experience as a federal prosecutor. Because proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is such a high standard, prosecutors typically focus on narrow, easily provable crimes. Until recently, I expected that if Mueller brought charges, they would likely be stand-alone indictments against individuals who committed crimes on their own.

Related: Is Trump really a Russian spy?

Robert Mueller

Alex Wong/Getty Images

Until the recent news, it also appeared that none of what Mueller was investigating would result in charges against Americans for working with Russians to commit a crime, which is what I presume politicians and the media mean when they use the word "collusion." (The term has no legal significance.)

The only known incident that could result in charges against Americans and Russians working together was the June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower between a Russian attorney and Donald Trump Jr., Manafort and others. However, the information we know publicly about that encounter is insufficient to establish that any crime was committed in connection to it.

Story continues

My opinion changed, however, when I read the recent reports in The Wall Street Journal and CNN about the Facebook search warrant. The importance of that development cannot be overstated. It means that Mueller presented evidence to a federal magistrate judge who concluded there was good reason to believe that foreign individuals committed a crime by making a "contribution" in connection with the election and that evidence of such a crime existed on Facebook.

Mueller's warrant tells us that the special counsel is closing in on specific foreigners who tried to undermine our democracy, that he's serious about going after Russian interference and he is far enough along to convince a federal judge that he has good evidence of such a crime.

The news could have serious implications for the presidents associates because it is a crime if you know a criminal act is taking place and help it succeed. That's called "aiding and abetting." If someone in Trump's orbit knew about the Russian "contributions" that Mueller is investigatingand helped them in a tangible waythey could be charged.

Someone who agreed to be part of the Russian effort could also be charged with criminal conspiracy. They wouldn't have to know about the whole operation or all the people involved in it. As long as they agreed to be part of some part of the scheme, they could be charged as part of the conspiracy.

We still don't know if Mueller has evidence linking a Trump associate to the Russian effort. But if he had solid evidence that an American aided the Russians, that could be a very difficult case to defend against. Jurors would have little patience for technical legal arguments as long as Mueller had proof that the American knew what Moscow was doing.

It also could have profound implications on another aspect of defense strategy in this case. There has been much speculation that Trump could pardon associates who were charged with committing crimes. For example, one could imagine the president pardoning someone who made a false disclosure or engaged in tax evasion.

But pardoning someone who worked with the Russians to undermine our election would carry a steep political cost. If legal counsel for Trump associates come to the same conclusion, and believe a pardon is not forthcoming, that could make their clients more willing to cooperate with the Mueller probe. The most important factor that people consider when deciding to flip is the likelihood that they will serve significant prison time.

Alternatively, if the president did pardon someone who aided the Russians, the political cost could impact impeachment proceedings. That's important because Trump likely cannot be indicted while he is in office, and impeachment would require a vote by the GOP-controlled House of Representatives, as well as a vote by all Democrats in the Senate and at least 19 of their Republican counterparts.

In other words, Mueller's warrant has the potential to profoundly change this investigationas well as its fallout.

Related Articles
A 24-year-old woman called her mom one last time as her car sank in an aqueduct in California on Friday.

Xanthel Linares, who had survived cancer and a kidney transplant, died early Friday when she veered off the road into an aqueduct in San Bernardino County, police said.

Read: 1-Year-Old Dies After Dad Left Him Next To Hot Shower to Help His Cough

As her car sank in the water, Linares phoned her mother.

She said, Mommy, the car. I went in the water, Patricia Linares, the victims mother, said during a press conference. She was screaming desperately.

The mom was overcome with emotion at the press conference, reports said, and Linares sister, finished speaking on the heartbreaking accident.

The last words that she was able to say to my mom before she went under completely and was no longer able to speak was I love you, Cosette Linares said.

Police turned off the aqueduct as soon as they spotted Linares vehicle in the water.

Linares' mom also headed to the scene and watched her daughter's car continue to go under.

Linares' vehicle was already submerged by the time a dive team arrived, according to reports.

I could see the tail lights going in, the mother said.

Members of the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department dive team recovered Linares body around 2:30 a.m. and she was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a police report.

Linares reportedly lived a few minutes away from the crash site.

In March, a similar tragedy happened in the same aqueduct when a mother and her three children - 2,3, and 10, crashed into the canal. The oldest child was the only survivor in the crash, reports said.

Both the Linares and Estrada families went to Hesperia City Hall on Friday to petition city officials for stronger barriers around the aqueduct, which is only protected from the road by a simple barbed wire, CBS Los Angeles reported.

Story continues

This is ridiculous, it should have never happened, Carlotta Estrada, the mother of Christine, told NBC Los Angeles. Its the exact, same thing. That obviously shows that there is something wrong right here.

Read: Teenage Mother Charged With Murder After Baby Dies From Stab Wounds: Police

An investigation by the California Department of Water Services is underway, reports said.

A GoFundMe has been set up for Linares funeral expenses.

Watch: 6-Month-Old Girl Dies After Being Mauled By Pit Bull Outside Her Home

Related Articles:
Courtney Siverling said she was praying for the person who attacked her and her friends - Facebook

A woman who, along with three friends, was sprayed at with acid while on holiday in Marseille, has posted a message of forgiveness on Facebook for her attacker.

Courtney Siverling was targeted by psychologically disturbed attacker in Marseilles main railway station yesterday in an attack which left two of her friends with facial burns.

Although she was uninjured, she was treated for shock.

The young woman wrote on Facebook: "Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out to see if I'm ok and/or has been praying for us. I did not receive any injuries from the attack in Marseille this morning and we are all safe. The French police and the U.S. Consulate have been wonderful and we are so thankful for that.

"I pray that the attacker would be healed from her mental illness in the name of Jesus and receive the forgiveness and salvation that can only come from Him.

"'This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.' Psalm 91:2".

Michelle Krug, who was also targeted in the attack, asked for her Facebook friends to pray for the attacker.

She wrote: "I want you all to know that my friends and I are doing okay. To fill in those who have not heard, three of my friends and I were attacked this morning at a Marseille train station by a woman suffering from a mental illness. She threw a weak solution of hydrochloric acid at us from a water bottle, which got in one of my eyes and one of my friend's eyes. We were all treated at a local hospital and are anticipating a quick recovery.

"I ask that if you send thoughts and prayers our way, please consider thinking about/praying for our attacker so that she may receive the help she needs and deserves. Mental illness is not a choice and should not be villainized.

"I'd like to thank the US Consulate, French police, and all of the wonderful people who helped us today and made us feel safe.

Story continues

"Looking forward to continuing this incredible opportunity to live and study in France!"

The four women were Boston College juniors in their early 20s taking part in study abroad programmes, with three in the French capital and a fourth based in Copenhagen, Denmark.

They were named by their university as Courtney Siverling, Charlotte Kaufman, Michelle Krug and Kelsey Kosten.

The director of the Boston College's Office of International Programs, Nick Gozik, said the women have been released from the hospital and "it appears that the students are fine, considering the circumstances".

Police arrested a 41-year-old woman immediately after the attack at about 9am local time, judicial sources said.

She was said to have a history of mental illness and a police record for theft. The victims, in their early 20s, were rushed to hospital and discharged later in the day. One suffered a partial loss of vision in one eye.

The assailant, who reportedly used a canister of cleaning fluid containing hydrochloric acid, told detectives that she herself had been attacked with acid when she was younger.

She stayed in the station after the attack and showed photographs of herself with burns, La Provence newspaper reported.
Donald Trump may be the face of the nation, but plenty of people out there are fans of his daughter's face. A woman named Tiffany recently appeared on the television show "Botched," claiming she's had 13 surgeries to look like the First Daughter -- but she's not the only one.

Women are reportedly heading to their plastic surgeons to look more like Ivanka Trump, according to The Hill and Page Six. A New York plastic surgeon told the news and gossip outlet that about 50 women have asked for the "Ivanka look" since last summer.

"Maybe they just like the look, but also that [Ivanka's] a powerful woman, self-confident, part of the first family. Do they want to be her? Yes, deep down, maybe," he said, according to the publication.

Related: Ivanka over the years

About four women a month have come to him to ask for Ivanka's look, which includes wider cheekbones, larger eyes, and a more slender nose. These patients can expect to spend almost 50,000 dollars to look like the "Permanent Ivanka."

For the record, the New York plastic surgeon says no one has come in and asked for "the Donald" look. But it'd be easy to achieve: Just comb the hair and get a spray tan!

Related: Ivanka and her kids
Presley Gerber and Kaia Gerber walk the September 2017 Burberry show together during London Fashion Week. (Photo: Getty Images)

As Cindy Crawford takes a step back from modeling, her two children, Kaia and Presley Gerber, continue to dominate the high-fashion runways. The two siblings made their first major catwalk debut together at the September 2017 Burberry show during London Fashion Week on Saturday evening.

Although its the first catwalk theyve shared together, its not the first runway for either of them.

Kaia Gerber made her first NYFW debut this season walking the runways at Calvin Klein, Fenty Puma, and Marc Jacobs. Her brother, Presley, has previously walked the Moschino, Zadig & Voltaire, and Dolce & Gabbana shows.

The two Gerber siblings were in high company at the Burberry show. They strutted by some of Londons biggest fashion models, who sat front-row  including Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Cara Delevingne. British Vogue editor Edward Enninful attended the show, as did American Vogue editor Anna Wintour, with her daughter, Bee Shaffer.

The Gerbers join a new league of fresh-faced Burberry models, including Jude Laws 16-year-old daughter, Iris, who also sat in the front row at the show. Law became the new face of Burberry Beauty earlier this year.

From left, British Vogue editor Edward Enninful, model Naomi Campbell, model Kate Moss, and British Vogue fashion director Venetia Scott. (Photo: Getty Images)

Vogue editor Anna Wintour wears a Burberry coat to the brands September 2017 show. (Photo: Getty Images)

Models Naomi Campbell and Cara Delevingne wear Burberry to the brands September 2017 show. (Photo: Getty Images)

In terms of the collection, creative director Christopher Bailey continues to deliver what he does best  fresh, new modern interpretations of the British culture and sartorial way of dressing. Tartan, plaid, and Burberrys signature check patterns became reworked in fresh new rain smocks, ponchos, hats, zip-up jackets, oversize tote bags, coats, and more. Colorful, vibrant plaid patterns were rampant during NYFW and continue to be a big trend.

Model wears a crystal chandelier monocle earring and tartan coat from the Burberry September 2017 collection. (Photo: Getty Images)

Colorful, oversize plaid tote bag from the September 2017 Burberry collection. (Photo: Getty Images)

Model wears a millennial pink rain coat and Burberry check zip-up jacket at the brands September 2017 show. (Photo: Getty Images)

Hygge style dominated the runway where Kaia Gerber and other models strutted, wearing colorful, cozy knitwear paired with argyle socks and playful heels. Millennial pink crept its way onto a few outerwear pieces too.

In terms of accessories, models wore large, statement crystal chandelier monocle earrings. Dont be surprised if you start seeing this jewelry style trend show up next spring. But you dont have to wait that long because the Burberry collection is available for immediate purchase globally, and will also be exhibited at the Old Sessions House in London, where the show took place.

Story continues

Close-up of the monocle crystal chandelier earrings from the Burberry September 2017 show. (Photo: Getty Images)

Alongside the show, Christopher Bailey helped curate the new Here We Are exhibition, which features more than 200 works of the 20th centurys most prominent social and documentary photographers, exploring the British way of life. It will include never-before-seen works by Shirley Baker, Ken Russell, Alasdair McLellan, and Gosha Rubchinskiy. If you happen to be in London soon, you can catch the exhibition, which opens Sept. 18, and runs through Oct. 1 at the Old Sessions House, located at 22 Clerkenwell Green, Clerkenwell, London.

Continue to check back with Yahoo Lifestyle as we cover the rest of fashion month in London, Milan, and Paris.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

 All of the bold and beautiful Spring 2018 shoes from NYFW

 The complete NYFW trend guide for Spring 2018

 See all of the best bags, hats, and accessories from NYFW

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




YAOUNDE  A girl with a bomb strapped to her walked into a mosque in northern Cameroon where it exploded, killing five worshippers in an attack bearing the hallmarks of Islamist militant group Boko Haram, authorities said.

The girl of 12 or 13 years old arrived at the Sanda-Wadjiri mosque in remote Kolofata at the first call to prayer at between five and six am, the governor of Cameroon's Far North region Midjiyawa Bakary told Reuters by telephone.

"The men were bowed in prayer when she came," Bakary said. "Five of the worshippers were killed and the bomber also."
The attempt to reach an agreement with Hamas that would secure the return of the Israeli citizens and the bodies of IDF soldiers it is holding onto has failed repeatedly. Efforts made by the Red Cross president, who visited Gaza recently, were unsuccessful too.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The truth is that Israel has failed miserably in all prisoner swap agreements since the 1985 Jibril deal, for a simple reason: We are negotiating on one single issue, while the other side holds all the cards. The other side is indifferent whereas we are eager. A bad result is inevitable.

Appointing committees like the Shamgar Committee to set supreme principles, or electing the best person as the POWs and MIAs coordinator, wont help. The only way to succeed is by creating a package deal in which several issues are discussed, a prisoner exchange being only one of those issues.

Lt. Hadar Goldin (L) and Sgt. Oron Shaul, who were killed in 2014 Operation Protective Edge and whose bodies were captured by Hamas

In 2009, at the end of Operation Cast Lead, Israel was under international pressure to open the crossings with Gaza and send in trucks with food and equipment. Israel should have said at the time: We are sensitive to humanitarian issues, but to all humanitarian issues. We will negotiate with Hamas on two issuesthe extent of opening the crossings and a prisoner exchange.

Had we done that, we would have created a balanced situation. We were stressed over kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit, and Hamaswhich is not just a terror organization, but also the government in Gazawas stressed out over the crossings. We would have shown some flexibility on the first issue, and the other side would have had to show some flexibility on the other issue. It didnt happen then and it isnt happening now either.

In general, package deals are the right way to solve any dispute. Lets assume Israel is negotiating with someone, a friend or an enemy, how to divide a certain cake. The negotiation ends with a 50:50 split. The Israeli government will have a problem explaining how it agreed to give the other side 50 percent even though Israel is in the rightg, is smarter and stronger. It will have trouble approving such an agreement.

Now lets assume were negotiating the division of two cakes, a cheese cake and a chocolate cake. At the conclusion of the negotiation, we end up with only one-quarter of the cheese cake but three-quarters of the chocolate cake. Allegedly, this case is similar to the previous one, as the negotiation ended with a 50:50 split. But theres a big difference here. Because the negotiation involved two cakes, the government could say: Its true that we only got one-quarter of the cheesecake, but its small and not very tasty, so we decided to generously give up three-quarters of that cake.

The chocolate cake, on the other hand, really is an important cake. We insisted and forced the other side to give us three-quarters of it. So at the end of the day, we are the big winners in this deal. The other side will present the same argument, only about the cheesecake, and everyone will be happy: They managed to both finalize a deal and present their respective populations with a victory.

When only a single issue is discussed, its always a zero sum game. When several issues are discussed, it turns out that each side has a different list of priorities: What we see as the most important thing is not as important to the other side, and the other way around.

In order to reach a package agreement with the Gaza government, we must first of all acknowledge the fact that Gaza has long been a state to all intents and purposes and that Hamas is its ruler.

Israel is moer than capable of offering Gaza sticks and carrots, so if we enter (direct or indirect) negotiations, in which a prisoner swap is just one of the issues discussed, well be able to reach a good result both regarding the return of Hadar Goldin and Oron Shauls bodies and the other citizens in Hamas captivity and regarding other issues as well.
Israel believes that a 19-year-old Israeli from the Bedouin community of Tel Sheva in the southern region, who was on a family trip in Istanbul and has been missing since Wednesday, may have joined ISIS.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The family of Ahmad al-Aasem, who went missing, denies the possibility that their son joined the Islamic terror group, insisting that Israels efforts to locate him would be conducted with more vigor if he was Jewish.

Al-Aasems father Abdullah and close family relatives traveled to Turkey to participate in the search efforts and filed a missing persons report with local police.

Asked whether there was any chance that al-Aasem had crossed into Syria in order to join one of the rebel movements, his father rejected the possibility out of hand.

We have already checked this. We traveled to the borders and asked there and we arrived at the conclusion that (he didnt). My son wasnt prepared to cross into Syria. He always let us know every step he intended to take and absolutely respects us, Abdullah responded.

Ahmad al-Aasem

He wouldnt move a meter without informing us which is why we are so worried. We are afraid of hearing bad news.

The Istanbul consulate is in contact with both his family and local authorities, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

My son traveled last Sunday to Turkey with two close family relatives. On Wednesday they decided to go out and my son told them he wasnt interested in going anywhere because he wanted to rest at the hotel, Abdullah claimed.

After a few hours he left and bought presents for his siblings and returned to the hotel. The same day he left again and since then has been missing and no contact has been established with him since.

We are now in Istanbul. We have gone around many places here in order to find him but we havent had any success. We dont know where he is and we are waiting for him to speak to us, at least to tell us he is safe and healthy so we can relax.

The father went on to express his disappointment in Israel from what he claimed to be an indifference to the familys plight.

I am surprised that the State of Israel is almost not interested in what we are going through, he lamented. If the missing person was Jewish they would make efforts until they discovered where he was, but because he is an Arab, they are all being quiet about it and there is no one who is putting in efforts to help us."

Hoping that his son was listening, Abdullah made a desperate plea that he establish contact with his family.

Our mental state is extremely difficult. We cant relax as long as there is no progress.
On the eve of the new Jewish year, Israel's population numbers about 8,743,000 people, according to data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) on Monday ahead of Rosh Hashanah.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Since Rosh Hashanah last year, Israel's population has increased by some 156,000 people.

According to the CBS, the Jewish population numbers 6,523,000 and makes up 74.6 percent of the population. The Arab population numbers about 1,824,000 people and makes up 20.9% of the population. Non-Arab Christians, members of other religious and those registered as having no religion number 396,000 and make up 4.5%.

Photo: Reuters

Examining Israelis' preferred places of residence, the CBS found that 74.2% of Israelis live in cities, 14.9% in local councils, 10.1% in regional councils, and 0.8% live in areas without an official municipal status.

But while Israel's territory is relatively small, most of it is uninhabited. Only 5.6% of its area is built up, with 20% of the land used for agriculture, 2.4% comprised of water, and 7.3% made up of forests, groves and national parks. The remaining land is made up of open areas, rocky terrain, excavated areas and vegetation-covered land.

The data further show there are some 2,470,200 households in Israel, with an average of 3.1 people per household.

In 2016, 181,405 babies were born in Israel. The CBS found that the overall fertility rate, 3.11, is the highest among OECD countries.

Israel's population also increased thanks to the immigration of 25,977 people in 2016, 57% of them from the former Soviet Union.

The CBS also examined the quality of life in Israel. The average income per household stands at NIS 18,671 ($5,300) a month before taxes and NIS 15,427 ($4,380) after taxes.

Most Israelis own their homes, with 67.6% living in an apartment they own and 39.9% paying mortgage.

Some 2.2 million students learn in Israel's education system: 517,000 in pre-school education, about a million in elementary school and some 713,000 in high school.

In general, 88% of Israelis said they were very satisfied or satisfied with their lives. Some 1.1 million (21%) feel stressed always or often. Some 340,000 (6%) feel lonely often. Thirty-four percent said they have a hard time covering their monthly expenses.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi in New York on Monday in what was their first public meeting since al-Sisi took office in 2014. The two have already had secret meetings and maintain close ties.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The two leaders discussed ways to renew peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.

A statement from Netanyahu's office said the meeting, held at the Palace Hotel where al-Sisi is staying while in New York, was "comprehensive" and dealt with the "problems in the region."

Netanyahu and al-Sisi meet in New York (Photo: Avi Ohayon, GPO)

According to a statement from al-Sisi's office, the Egyptian president stressed the importance of renewing peace talks in order to reach a just solution based on the idea of two states for two peoples.

Al-Sisi also thanked the Trump administration for US efforts on the matter, adding that resolving the Palestinian issue would create a new reality in the Middle East that would allow stability and security to all countries in the region.

The Egyptian statement also noted Netanyahu expressed his appreciation to al-Sisi for Cairo's important role in the Middle East, its fight against terrorism and its efforts to achieve stability and peace in the region.

Netanyahu and al-Sisi meet in New York (: ")

X

Earlier Monday, al-Sisi met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss attempts to jumpstart the peace process with Israel as well as efforts to achieve internal Palestinian reconciliation between Abbas's Palestinian Authority and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu, meanwhile, met with US President Donald Trump for the third time this year at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. The Israeli premier expressed his desire for a tougher stance vis-a-vis Iran in a bid to frustrate its ambitions to produce a nuclear weapon.

Netanyahu and al-Sisi meet in New York (Photo: Avi Ohayon, GPO)

During his meeting with Trump, Netanyahu mentioned his aim at abandoning the current deal with Iran. One of the most vociferous opponents of the deal, which was signed under Barack Obamas leadership, Netanyahu has in the past delineated what he believes should be the West's clear red lines on the issue.

"I look forward to discussing with you how we can address together what you rightly called is the terrible nuclear deal with Iran and how to roll back Iran's growing aggression in the region, especially in Syria," Netanyahu told Trump.

Netanyahu has recently expressed grave concern at Tehrans attempts to spread its influence throughout the Middle East, and particularly to Syria and along Israel's northern border.

Netanyahu and al-Sisi meet in New York (Photo: Avi Ohayon, GPO)

Netanyahu also mentioned Israel was seeking out peace with the Palestinians and the Arab world in general, a goal that is encouraged by the US. Trump is scheduled to meet with Abbas later this week.

"As you said, we will discuss the way we can seize the opportunity for peace between Israel and the Palestinians and between Israel and the Arab world, I think these things go together and we look forward to talking about how we can advance both," Netanyahu to the American president.

Trump agreed with him, saying that they "are giving it an absolute go," and that "we're working very hard" to reach a deal between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

While in New York on Monday, Netanyahu also held talks with a series of other world leaders, including Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Mak Soi Kun was the most voted candidate in yesterdays Legislative Assembly (AL) elections. According to the official data released early morning today, Mak got 17,207 votes and his Macau-Guangdong Union managed to elect a second lawmaker, Zheng Anting.

The Macau-Guangdong Union political platform prioritizes issues of livelihood. The group demands a minimum MOP10,000 monthly pension for people aged above 65 years old, and better medical and living welfare conditions.

Another key element of the groups platform is their focus on the youth. The teams candidates want better policies to help the youth buy their own houses and acquire better skills

Heading the Union for Development group, Ella Lei obtained 16,694 votes, also electing a second lawmaker, Leong Sun Iok. Her results make the Macao Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM) one of the winners of the election. FAOM is expected to have more representatives appointed lawmakers by the Chief Executive.

The other winner of the night is the pan-democrat side, with members and former members of the New Macau Association electing three lawmakers, namely Au Kam San and Ng Kuok Cheong, both veterans at the AL, and the newcomer Sulu Sou [Read more].

Though Sulu Sou remained in the top 14 for most of the evening, the daylight hours drew to a round of applause and cheering as the citys youngest lawmaker was confirmed  in spite of what the group has regarded in past weeks as an orchestrated smear campaign against them.

The mood at the New Macau headquarters was one of hope; that a young lawmaker, backed by the youth, could bring a much-needed revitalization to Macaus legislature.

Pereira Coutinho kept his lawmaker post with 14,383 votes, but failed to see his number two, Leong Veng Chai, elected.

Supporters of candidate Jose Pereira Coutinho gathered at Macau Civil Servants Association last night, chanting as several volunteers counted the votes of their candidate.

Speaking to the Times, Coutinho expressed his content with the results, adding that the group has been working hard to achieve a high number of votes.

The re-elected legislator also said that residents had learned from this election and he hoped that the next election will be more impartial.

I hope that the next election would be much more fair and clean. Local people can upgrade their knowledge about politics and what is going on in the Legislative Assembly works, which is one of the biggest problems in Macau, he noted.

Coutinho implied that he would call for more directly elected seats, adding that the number of such seats has not changed since 2009.

We have a dream that one day, the majority of AL are direct elected and only one seat, according to the basic law, will remain indirectly elected, said the re- elected lawmaker.

Agnes Lam, a scholar at the University of Macau, was successful in her third attempt to reach the parliament with 9,590 votes.

Chan Meng Kams list-splitting strategy did not pay off. Incumbent lawmakers Song Pek Kei and Si Ka Lon successfully defended their seats, but failed to match the best expectations, which would see the two lists backed by Chan electing four lawmakers.

When interviewed by the Times yesterday night, the results of the election were not fully known, but Song said that she was putting her hopes in some polling stations. In the northern district, there is a bigger population. I think the turnout rate in this district is almost the same as that of the previous election, she said.

When talking about his expectations regarding the results, Si Ka Lon echoed Songs expectations. The northern district will have more votes. I also believe that, after so many years of hard working, we will have some votes in other districts as well, he said.

The failure of Chans strategy may be explained by the peculiarities of Macaus electoral system, whereby the number of votes needed to elect consecutive lawmakers from a single list increases exponentially. The result is that the number of votes needed for a lists third lawmaker may exceed that of its first and second candidates combined.

It is the biggest political defeat for Chan Meng Kam, the most distinguished leader of Macaus Fujianese community, since he first entered mainstream politics in 2005.

One of the surprises of the election was the non-election of Melinda Chan. Her group Alliance for Change failed to retain her seat at the AL. Chan couldnt hide her disappointment. I never thought this would happen, but I respect the decision of the Macau citizens, she told TDM.

Despite being elected with 10,447 votes, Angela Leong also showed some disappointment for not electing a second lawmaker when talking to supporters after the results were known. Staff reporters
China rebuffed U.S. demands to cut off oil exports to North Korea as a way to dissuade Kim Jong-Uns regime from pursuing nuclear weapons, saying instead it was American leaders who needed to tone down their rhetoric and come to the negotiating table.

China will implement all United Nations Security Council resolutions, no more, no less, Cui Tiankai, Chinas ambassador to the U.S., told reporters at a briefing in Washington when asked if China would cut oil shipments. Any further steps would need to be worked out with the agreement of the entire UN Security Council, he said.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson demanded last week that China use its role as the main exporter of oil to North Korea to force Kim to abandon his nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Hours earlier, North Korea had launched a missile over Japan, the latest in a series of actions that have rattled the international community and prompted a new round of U.S.-led sanctions.

Cui said the U.S., not China, needed to take more responsibility for the issue.

They cannot just leave the issue to China alone, and honestly I think the United States should be doing more, much more than now, so that there is real effective international cooperation on this issue, Cui said.

Asked what specifically the U.S. should do, Cui said they should refrain from issuing more threats and do more to find an effective way to resume dialogue and negotiation. Bloomberg
The Chief Executive (CE) Chui Sai On, called on all voters to exercise their voting rights and select their preferred representatives to earn a seat in the Legislative Assembly (AL) for the sixth legislature.

The appeal was made right after the CE had voted, yesterday at noon, at the polling station located at the Instituto Salesiano School.

Chui recalled that the representatives now running for the election will have an important role in supervising the governments work, stressing also that the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election (CAEAL) had devoted all efforts to ensuring the polls were held in a lawful, fair, just, open and clean manner in line with the Legislative Assembly Election Law.

The CE expressed his gratitude to all staff working in the polling stations, commending the election process for being conducted in an orderly manner, and without problems.

The CEs appeal for voters to vote, was followed by the governments high-ranked officials who voted during the day at several locations around the Peninsula and Islands.

At the Macau Forum polling station, the director of the Customs Service, Alex Vong noted the simplicity of the voting system, observing that it took him less than five minutes to complete the process.

Earlier on, several government Secretaries placed their votes. One of the first to vote was the Secretary for Transports and Public Works, Raimundo do Rosario, who voted several minutes past 9 a.m. at the Macau Stadium in Taipa.

He said he chose to vote early in the morning as there were fewer voters and the process would be quicker .

The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lionel Leong, also voted in Taipa, and reaffirmed that the elections were running in a legal, fair, transparent and honest way. He added, I believe the voters will exercise their right in a rational and prudent manner.

The president of the AL, Ho Iat Seng was seen exiting from the polling station at the Macau Polytechnic Institute (IPM) in the early morning. He said it was a duty of the lawmakers to proceed with legislative initiatives as well as to inspect governments work, and, I hope there are some new faces for the Sixth Legislative Assembly. This will stimulate the work of the chamber.

He also said that the AL is under a duty to attend to the problems of the population, noting that when matters relating to housing, transportation, medical assistance, education and economy are solved, people will feel more stable and happy. RM

Chui comments on barred journalists

Last week, Apple Daily (Hong Kong) sent journalists to Macau to report on the Legislative Assembly election. Twelve journalists from Apple Daily were denied entry to the city on the grounds that they pose threats to Macaus internal security stability. Hong Kong Journalists Association says it feels sorry for the Macau authoritys decision, and that the journalists interviews would not pose threats to Macaus internal security. The Chief Executive said yesterday that he believes the Macau immigration departments decision had no direct link to the work either of the Electoral Affairs Commission or of the Commission Against Corruption.
A 48 year old Brazilian woman was arrested at the Macau International Airport for smuggling two kilograms of cocaine into the territory last Friday night.

According to the Judiciary Police (PJ), the drug has a market value of six million patacas.

On Friday, the police found the womans trousers bundled with transparent plastic bags, which were then confirmed to contain two kilograms of cocaine. She was then arrested.

The woman said that a Brazilian man ordered her to transfer the drugs to Macau in exchange for USD12,500.

She flew from Brazil to Dubai, followed by making a trip to Manila and then Macau.

This is the second woman from Brazil to be arrested last week for smuggling drugs to Macau.

On Thursday, a 19-year old Brazilian woman was arrested at the airport for smuggling 1.76 kilograms of cocaine.

The woman flew to Macau at night from Thailand to Macau.

She admitted that her boyfriend had given her instructions to transport the drug to Macau, and had promised to give her USD9,000 in payment.
To further support local procurement and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) growth, Sands China has chosen to acquire product from a Made-in-Macao enterprise to supply a variety of gourmet products to its five properties.

City Gourmet Company Limited, a local company established in 2007, has been supplying gourmet products from smoked meats to cold-cuts since 2016.

Due to the ready availability of products through the company in Macau, food and beverage companies supplied by them are likely to obtain fresher products compared to accessing product supply from neighboring regions.

City Gourmet currently produces cooked and fine gourmet foods, and tailor-made products for its clients.

The local firm became one of the suppliers to the gaming operator after a successful introduction its products and services to Sands China.

Motivated by Sands Chinas launching of the SME program, City Gourmet initiated the partnership, which Sands China welcomed.

Sands Chinas food and beverage team was then sent to conduct a quality assurance inspection and took a look at the firms standard of food hygiene at their facilities and approved the supplier after ensuring the quality of the food being served to guests.

As an example of Sands Chinas aim of assisting local enterprises to grow along with the integrated resorts, Sands China quickly placed an order of nearly three tons of gourmet foods in its first transaction with the firm.

City Gourmet currently supplies 22 of Sands Chinas food and beverage outlets.

The first order was very quick. In two-weeks they started to place orders and the volume was between two and three tons of products, said Simon Tam, general manager of City Gourmet.

According to Tam, Sands Chinas Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Program serves as an advantage to his enterprise, noting that the gaming operators purchasing team showed support even before the formal partnership commenced.

When we started to contact The Venetian, the purchasing team was very supportive to us, Tam noted.

When they knew that we provide Made in Macao products, they were very keen and happy to visit us and see what we could supply to them, the entrepreneur continued.

Tam also remarked that Sands China champions the government policy on prioritizing purchases from SMEs established in the territory.

Sands China is also very supportive of the Macau government policy. Just [as] during their invitational matching session, they allowed us to showcase our products, and the procurement team responded fast, recalled the entrepreneur.

Meanwhile, the general manager highlighted that the human resources situation is still a challenge being faced by local SMEs, noting that the bottleneck could hinder the growth of its businesses.

Due to the strict policies over imported labor, the lack of manpower remains a challenge to the company which resulted in having to refuse a local hotels request for the supply of gourmet products.

Macau lacks this kind of manpower. What most companies are facing is this problem: they cant get the right people to do the work for them, Tam lamented.

Tam also hoped that the government would resource local enterprises by employing non-residents.

I hope the government can allow us to a have bigger [non-resident to resident] workers proportion to make our factory production power bigger and [to] supply more quality products, expressed the entrepreneur.

Yet despite these hurdles, Tam is grateful that Sands Chinas SME programs, along with its procurement team have significantly assisted them in enhancing service quality and range of products that they offer to the gaming operators enterprises.

Even considering the scale of Sands Chinas operation, the entrepreneur noted that he never felt intimidated by the size of its client due to its continuous support for their business; treating the enterprise as valued partners.

Although there are plans to expand the business in a bid to cater to the demands of local integrated resorts and to promote local products, City Gourmet is currently focusing on supplying top quality products to its clients.

Having been a supplier of Sands China for over a year, Tam emphasized that he sees a potential opportunity for significant turnover volume.

City Gourmet acknowledged that the swift and accommodating response from the procurement team of Sands China has assisted them to plan for production and on-time delivery to the properties.

Sands China has been closely involved in activities that benefit SMEs such as giving them access to direct business opportunities.

To continually demonstrate the companys commitment to supporting local enterprises as part of the operators corporate social responsibility, Sands China has continuously been involved in purchasing local products.

To further support these local entrepreneurs, Sands China conducts a Sands China Procurement Academy, aiming to develop local SME suppliers by sharing business knowledge and skills, helping them gain experience and capacity to work with large-scale international customers like Sands China.

In line with the governments policy of buy local, the gaming operator has continually expressed its aim of seeing local SMEs become a significant part of the growth of the regions economy.

Thus, its academy program provides tailor-made practical training modules to local SMEs, presenting them with a certificate upon graduating from the academy.

Graduating suppliers will become preferential suppliers under otherwise equal circumstances. The academy is targeted toward local small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), micro-enterprises, young entrepreneurs, and Made-in-Macao enterprises.

This article was sponsored by

Sands China Ltd.
International media coverage of Macaus election has been generally scarce, though a few outlets chipped in with their analysis and predictions.

The South China Morning Post reported over the weekend that the pro-establishment bloc was expected to retain its legislative dominance. It speculated that voters would react poorly to perceived criticism directed by some pro-democrats toward the intervention of the Macau Garrison of the Peoples Liberation Army last month.

However, political commentator Larry So told the SCMP that the younger democrats in the likes of Sulu Sou might fare better in the election with their fresher, arguably untarnished reputation.

Given the highly fragmented nature of the democrats, both old and new generation, the likely beneficiaries may be the new and younger candidates who project an image of freshness and necessary change, especially for some voters who are deeply unhappy with the government performance before and after Typhoon Hato, he said, as cited by the SCMP.

Meanwhile, Hong Kongs The Standard described the political landscape in the MSAR as rather simple.

With only about 300,000 voters, its absolutely a foregone conclusion pro-Beijing forces will continue to dominate the legislature by overwhelming numbers, it noted, in agreement with general forecasts. Sundays poll will produce a body that will continue to lend support to the administration.

The newspaper also speculated, prior to the results, on the consequences of the likely election of Sou. The Standard suggested that Sou might throw a spanner into the business-as-usual works of the Legislative Assembly through filibustering tactics.

The Economist covered Macaus election in a short article in this weeks edition, highlighting the MSARs apparent political apathy when compared with its much larger neighbor. It said that local residents were not keen to press for greater democracy in the territory, as has been the trend in Hong Kong. DB
Kuwait will expel North Koreas ambassador to the oil-rich country and four other diplomats, potentially limiting Pyongyangs ability to earn money for its nuclear program from laborers it sends to the Gulf.

The decision comes as Kuwait in recent weeks offered contradictory statements about its relationship with North Korea. The U.S. and Asian nations have increased pressure on their allies to cut ties as Pyongyang has tested a nuclear weapon and launched ballistic missiles over Japan.

North Koreas Embassy in Kuwait City serves as its only diplomatic outpost in the Gulf. Pyongyang has thousands of laborers working in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates .

Responding to international pressure, Kuwait will expel Ambassador So Chang Sik and four other staffers. That will leave four diplomats at the embassy. The embassy did not respond to a request for comment.

A Gulf-based official confirmed yesterday that Kuwait would be expelling the diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence reports. A letter Kuwait sent in August to the United Nations also made that pledge.

Kuwaits Information Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Kuwaits ruling emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, traveled to Washington and met with U.S. President Donald Trump this month. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait City called Kuwait a key regional partner on (North Korea) and many other issues.

Kuwait has taken positive steps in regards to implementing U.N. resolutions related to Pyongyang, it said.

While a small market compared to China and Russia, the amount of money North Korean laborers in the Gulf kick back to the government helps Pyongyang evade international sanctions, authorities say. A 2015 U.N. report suggested that the more than 50,000 North Koreans working overseas earned Pyongyang between $1.2 billion and $2.3 billion a year. Other estimates put earnings in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

The ongoing North Korea crisis is a tough one for Kuwait, a staunch American ally since the U.S.-led 1991 war that ended Iraqi dictator Saddam Husseins occupation of the country. Kuwait now hosts some 13,500 American troops. AP
Days after fleeing their village on the Myanmar side of the border fence, a group of Rohingya Muslims watched from just inside Bangladesh as yet another house went up in flames.

You see this fire today, said Farid Alam, one of the Rohingya who watched the fire burn from about 500 meters (yards) away. That is my village.

The villagers said they had escaped days ago, crossing into Bangladesh at the border point of Tumbru and joining thousands of other ethnic Rohingya huddling in the open in the district of Bandarban to escape recent violence in Buddhist-majority Myanmar.

When they crossed the border, they saw land mines that had been newly planted by Myanmar forces, Alam said.

Thousands of Rohingya are continuing to stream across the border, with U.N. officials and others demanding that Myanmar halt what they describe as a campaign of ethnic cleansing that has driven nearly 400,000 Rohingya to flee in the past three weeks.

That number includes an estimated 240,000 children, UNICEF said in Geneva on Friday.

We had a big house, we are 10 people in the family, but they burned our home, Alam said as he watched the other house burning Friday. My father was a village doctor, we had a medical store. We had land and cattle, all are gone.

Ethnic Rohingya have long faced discrimination in Myanmar and are denied citizenship, even though many families have lived there for generations.

After a Rohingya insurgent group attacked police posts in Myanmars Rakhine state on Aug. 25, the military responded with clearance operations. Fleeing Rohingya say security forces shot indiscriminately, burned their homes and threatened them with death. The government says hundreds died, mostly Rohingya, and that 176 out of 471 Rohingya villages are now abandoned.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday described the violence against Rohingya as ethnic cleansing  a term that describes an organized effort to rid an area of an ethnic group by displacement, deportation or killing.

Amnesty International said Thursday it has evidence of an orchestrated campaign of systematic burnings by Myanmar security forces targeting dozens of Rohingya villages over the last three weeks. In a separate report, Human Rights Watch said Friday that high-resolution satellite images showed 62 villages where fires had occurred, including 35 with extensive damage.

Abul Bashar, a 73-year-old Rohingya in Bandarban, said he traveled 15 days on foot to reach Bangladesh on Wednesday, and was separated from the rest of his family.

He took nothing with him as he fled.

I have lost everything, he said. Our homes were burned.  It was painful, very painful.

Elsewhere, along a fence near the Kutupalong refugee camp in Bangladeshs border district of Coxs Bazar, men, women and children ran after aid trucks as volunteers tossed clothing and packets of dry food.

With refugee camps overflowing and hundreds of thousands of Rohingya struggling to find shelter, food and other essential services, aid workers say they are deeply worried by the continuing influx of people by land and water.

This is desperate. Its one of the biggest man-made crises and mass movements of people in the region for decades, Martin Faller, a deputy regional director of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said in a statement.

People have no food, water or shelter and they are in desperate need of support. No one should have to live like this, Faller said.

U.N. refugee agency spokesman Joseph Tripura said that, unless authorities address health concerns, we might see a very bad situation in coming days with disease outbreaks.

The International Organization for Migration in Geneva believes thousands of people are waiting to take boats to Coxs Bazar, according to Asia-Pacific spokesman, Chris Lom. There is no sign that this flow is going to dry up.

U.N. agencies fear continued violence in Myanmar may eventually drive up to 1 million Rohingya into Bangladesh.

On Friday, one of the recently arrived men, Moulana Arif Ullah, led about 300 other Rohingya Muslim men in weekly prayer.

There are soldiers over there  we cant have freedom there, he said to worshippers at a makeshift mosque at the Kutupalong refugee camp.

Who can save us? Who can give us food? he asked, shouting and sobbing.

Allah, they shouted back.

What can we do? We pray to Allah. He will save us, Mohammed Ashikur said as the prayers ended. Julhas Alam, Tumbru, AP
Portuguese Finance Minister Mario Centeno expects greater demand for his nations debt from a broader array of investors to spur lower borrowing costs both for the government and corporations, after the countrys credit rating was restored to investment grade status by S&P Global Ratings.

This has a very significant impact, Centeno said in a telephone interview. It allows a much vaster array of investors to have Portuguese debt in their portfolios. It also allows private debt to benefit from these better financing conditions, and this is very relevant for Portuguese banks.

S&P raised its forecast for Portugals economic growth and revised the countrys rating to BBB- from BB+, which was one level below investment grade, according to a statement released on Friday. The outlook is stable. Portugal had been rated junk by S&P since January 2012, when the country was going through a bailout program provided by the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.

Tourism and exports have been driving a rebound in the economy, with the Bank of Portugal forecasting growth will accelerate to 2.5 percent this year. The faster growth is helping the countrys minority Socialist government manage the budget deficit, which last year was the narrowest as a percentage of gross domestic product in four decades of Portuguese democracy.

Prime Minister Antonio Costa took office at the end of 2015 and has increased indirect taxes while reducing the work week for state employees as he aims to reverse some measures introduced during the bailout program. While Portugal exited the three-

year international aid program in 2014, its still dealing with pending issues including bad loans at banks.

The government aims to cut its deficit to 1.5 percent of GDP in 2017 from 2 percent last year, and sees debt falling to 127.7 percent of GDP this year from 130.4 percent in 2016. The debt ratio increased last year as Portugal raised funds for the 2.5 billion-euro capital injection in state-owned bank Caixa Geral de Depositos SA that was carried out this year.

The countrys debt is rated below investment grade by Fitch Ratings and Moodys Investors Service. Moodys on Sept. 1 followed Fitch in raising the outlook on Portugal to positive from stable. Portugal already had an investment grade rating from DBRS Ltd., which secures the nations eligibility for the European Central Banks bond purchase program.

We believe that risks of a marked deterioration in external financing conditions have receded, and that the ECB will ensure a smooth transition toward a less accommodative monetary stance, S&P said.

Portugals 10-year bond yield was at 2.8 percent on Friday, down from 4 percent six months ago. It peaked at 18 percent in 2012 at the height of the euro regions debt crisis.

Its very important to get this rating now because Portugal has to prepare for the changes in monetary policy that are to be expected during the coming months and years in Europe, Centeno said.

The minister said previously announced plans to issue bonds in China will be concluded soon. Joao Lima, Bloomberg
Voter turnout in yesterdays election was in line with expectations and similar to that of previous Legislative Assembly elections, rising two percentage points from the previous election in 2013.

According to government estimates, a total of 174,872 voters (57 percent of the total) cast their ballots yesterday in the direct elections, up from 55.02 percent in 2013 but down from 59.91 percent in 2009.

As for the indirect elections, between 82 percent and 97 percent of registered electors for the five functional constituencies cast their vote. Only one candidate contested the designated seat for many of these functional constituencies.

Yesterdays election was the most contested election since the 1999 handover, with more lists than ever before vying for a seat or two in the legislature.

Some analysts attributed the destruction brought by Typhoon Hato last month and the governments response to the disaster as a pulling factor for voters. They said that voters would use the election as a chance to respond to the governments handling of the situation.

The Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Elections role in sending out advanced information on polling stations ahead of the election may have also contributed, as might the trial runs conducted in the days leading up to Sunday, particularly for the elderly and the handicapped.

The weather also held out yesterday. Poor weather conditions are known to affect the number of voters that head to the polls.

Voter turnout in democratic countries and states tends to fluctuate for a variety of reasons, including the issues at stake, the character of the election contenders themselves, and the perceived closeness of the election, as well as the level of political apathy and the importance that voters attach to the political process.

In last years legislative election in Hong Kong, some 58 percent of the population cast their ballots, five percentage points higher than in the 2012 election. Analysts attributed the sharp rise to the effect of the Umbrella Movement in late-2014, which paralyzed parts of Hong Kong city, including Causeway Bay and Mong Kok.
Around 57 percent of the registered voters cast their votes yesterday at 37 polling stations spread across the city.

While many agree the voting process was easier than four years ago, some residents are still skeptical over Macaus voting procedures, and others are unaware of Macaus controversial voting system.

Speaking to the Times, several voters criticized the SARs voting system, arguing that the 14 directly elected seats in the Legislative Assembly (AL) are not enough. They suggested that the 12 seats nominated by the functional constituency system should be reduced to allow for more directly elected seats.

There are not enough direct selections. It doesnt make sense that the government can have that many appointed representatives, said a 60-year old resident who refused to be identified.

Questioned whether he would also call for universal suffrage, the citizen responded, later on, but this time, [we] cannot.

Echoing the same sentiment, another registered voter expressed that the 2017 AL elections was only for a show, adding that some lawmakers only serve out of personal interest.

I think this [election] is only commercial. Its nothing. The assembly and everyone [in the AL] is commercial. [They] do not want to help the population, but only themselves, said another Macau local, who also refused to be identified.

Florence Van, born and raised in Macau, declared, I support democracy.

She expressed support for universal suffrage for both the Chief Executive and the AL election, and believed that yesterdays election was significant to Macau.

If the city does not even vote for so few directly elected lawmakers, then nothing will change. I think everybody should contribute. If [] everybody does nothing, then change will not happen, she said.

Another interviewee, surnamed Wong, who has been a teacher in Macaus primary and middle schools for eight years, voted for the first time in this election. Yet he lamented that the elections cannot change that much.

He explained that due to the small number of seats given to directly elected lawmakers, some important bills, which residents have been wanting to be passed, cannot pass at the parliament.

In addition, several of the lawmakers among the 14 directly elected ones are businessmen. [] Hence, I hope that more different voices can be heard in the AL, he continued.

Wong believes that the democratic power in Macau is comparatively insubstantial, and the power of the pro-government lawmakers is too robust.

Although candidates brought out several fair ideas and several fair political platforms, he doubted whether the promises will come to pass.

It is still unknown whether what they said will be realized. Nobody can promise that the lawmakers will stick to their words, said Wong.

When commenting on the election and Macaus democratic system, Wong replied, the best for the general public is to have a happy life.

I think all systems have their own flaws, said Wong, who considers that despite its flaws, democracy is still the best option for Macau.

The voter believed that there is still a lot of room for Macaus democratic development, adding that as a millennial, youth concerns should be given more weight in the AL.

Another voter, surnamed Lei, noted that more than half of the registered voters are aged over 50, thus she believed that the youth voice would not have a strong impact in the AL.

There will be some influence [from young people], but regardless of our voting preferences, that influence will not play a huge role, said Lei. But I still think we should vote. Those young candidates really need us to vote for them.

Lei described the territorys democratic situation as being not okay.

Its because firstly, the law is not okay. [Basic Law] says that Macau will not change for 50 years, and now I am really afraid it wont even change in 50 years.

A university student, surnamed Hoi, voted for the first time in the AL election along with her siblings, who are also university students and first time voters.

When talking to the Times, Hoi agreed that it is their duty to vote in the election.

The three students share the hope that lawmakers would speak for them in the AL regarding democracy.

Some meters away from the exit of the Portuguese School, the young voters said that although the arrangement of the polling stations at the school was quite good and the voting procedure was fast, they still hoped for some significant changes.

I hope that the housing prices can go down a bit, and that there can be more public houses. I also hope that the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau can provide more accurate weather forecasts, said Hoi.

While some voters are still opting for the candidates they voted for in the previous elections, a few are seeking a change.

A non-Chinese speaking resident said that she voted for a candidate whom she believed was also seeking change in the AL.

Many years ago, I [have been] wanting her to win because shes also aiming for some changes. I think shes a good leader, she said.

Meanwhile, when asked whether they approved of Macaus voting system, others admitted that they are not familiar with the citys voting system.

To tell you honestly, I dont know about this system, I just did what I was encouraged to do, [and to show] solidarity; and maybe my vote can somehow count, a voter said.

According to several inquiries by the Times, many of the Filipinos residing in the city voted for list number 6, Nova Esperanca, led by candidate Jose Pereira Coutinho.

Filipino registered voters expressed that their loyalty to Coutinho was due to his help with issues faced by the Filipino community.

I voted for him because he can help us [Filipinos]. I want candidates who can help my fellow compatriots, said one interviewee.

I think we can reach this legislator whenever we encounter problems. I think hes the only legislator who we can approach, actually, said another. Lynzy Valles, Julie Zhu

CAEAL recorded 12 irregularities on election day

The Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election (CAEAL) has recorded a total of 12 irregularities that were forwarded to the Public Security Police Force (PSP), Tong Hio Fong informed in the first press conference of the committee after the closing of the polling stations.

According to Tong, of those 12 irregularities, five are related to photo taking inside the polling stations.

Tong informed early yesterday morning of 10 cases of irregularities that occurred during the period of reflection between Friday midnight and yesterday. According to Tong, such cases were mostly related to the lack of removal or hiding of propaganda online, namely on social networks. Cases of promised or actual gifts, such as free meals, are also included among these 10 cases, he noted.

Addressing the preliminary figures of the voting stations, Tong said that a total of 174,000 people are believed to have voted in the direct elections, representing 57 percent of the electorate. As for the indirect suffrage, Tong said that the 5,550 voters represented around 91 percent of the total. RM
RUSSIA President Vladimir Putin yesterday attended the weeklong war games with Belarus that have demonstrated the Russian militarys resurgent might and made neighboring countries nervous. Russia and Belarus say 5,500 Russian and 7,200 Belarusian troops are participating, but some NATO countries have estimated that up to 100,000 troops could be involved. Nervous NATO members, including the Baltic states and Poland, have questioned Moscows intentions.

VIETNAM The death toll from Typhoon Doksuri has risen to at least nine, with four people still missing since the storm hit Vietnam last week. The disaster management authority said some 31,000 soldiers and police were mobilized to help residents in three hard-hit provinces.

NEPAL Tens of thousands of people voted peacefully yesterday in a previously troubled southern Nepal province where ethnic violence demanding constitution changes had led to dozens of deaths in recent years.

KOREA Chinas Communist Party newspaper, the Peoples Daily, has criticized the United States for demanding that Beijing put more pressure on North Korea to rein in its weapons programs. It made the remarks after the U.S. military flew powerful bombers and stealth jets over the Korean Peninsula in joint drills with South Korean warplanes.

SOUTH AFRICA Conservationists say some criminal groups are processing rhino horns into powder and trinkets in South Africa before export, a trend that could reflect changing consumer tastes and make it harder for law enforcement to intercept the illegal cargo.

IRELAND Budget airline Ryanair was under pressure yesterday to provide more information to travellers after canceling up to 50 flights a day over the next six weeks because it mismanaged its pilots holiday schedules.

PORTUGALs stock market is surging and its government borrowing rates are falling after the country recovered its investment-grade rating from Standard & Poors. The Lisbon stock exchange rose more than 1 percent yesterday.

PERU President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski has appointed a former economy minister as his new prime minister, two days after a no-confidence vote by the opposition-led congress forced the entire Cabinet to resign.

MEXICO Authorities in the Mexican resort city of Cancun say gunmen have killed a married couple who were investigators for the state prosecutors office, as well as a child who was with them.